bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gastric pyloric gland adenoma: a multicentre clinicopathological study of 67 cases
Authors: Choi Won‐Tak , Brown Ian , Ushiku Tetsuo , Yozu Masato , Setia Namrata , Srivastava Amitabh , Johncilla Melanie , Pai Rish K , Gill Ryan M , Fukayama Masashi , Misdraji Joseph , Lauwers Gregory Y
Published: December 2017

Aims

There is limited information regarding the clinicopathological and immunohistochemical characteristics of gastric pyloric gland adenomas (PGAs).

Methods and results

Sixty‐seven cases of gastric PGA from 57 patients were analysed. PGAs occurred with similar frequency in men and women (47.4 and 52.6%, respectively), with a mean age of 66 years. Most presented in the gastric body/fundus (67.2%). Fifteen cases (22.4%) developed against a background of autoimmune gastritis (AIG), whereas normal mucosa was seen in 35.8%. Only 16.4% (11 cases) developed in patients with a genetic predisposition, most commonly familial adenomatous polyposis. Low‐grade lesions had a mean size of 1.5 cm, while PGAs with high‐grade dysplasia (HGD) or adenocarcinoma had a mean size of 3.5 cm (P < 0.001) and more commonly showed tubulovillous architecture (50.0 versus 25.6% in low‐grade dysplasia; P = 0.040). Most PGAs (61.2%) co‐expressed mucin (MUC)5AC and MUC6 (mixed type), which was associated significantly with HGD or adenocarcinoma (P = 0.013). AIG was also associated with HGD (P = 0.027), but genetic predisposition did not correlate with the grade of dysplasia (P = 0.793). The recurrence rate of PGA was similar for high‐ (11.8%) and low‐grade lesions (7.4%) (P = 0.624).

Conclusions

The risk of HGD increases with the size of PGA, tubulovillous architecture and the presence of AIG as well as mixed immunophenotype. As the overall local recurrence rate is less than 10%, PGAs may be treated conservatively, but they should be excised completely if possible, particularly if they are large or show high‐grade features.
Effects of environmental conditions on reproductive effort and nest success of Arctic‐breeding shorebirds
Authors: Weiser Emily L. , Brown Stephen C. , Lanctot Richard B. , Gates H. River , Abraham Kenneth F. , Bentzen Rebecca L. , Bêty Joël , Boldenow Megan L. , Brook Rodney W. , Donnelly Tyrone F. , English Willow B. , Flemming Scott A. , Franks Samantha E. , Gilchrist H. Grant , Giroux Marie‐Andrée , Johnson Andrew , Kendall Steve , Kennedy Lisa V. , Koloski Laura , Kwon Eunbi , Lamarre Jean‐François , Lank David B. , Latty Christopher J. , Lecomte Nicolas , Liebezeit Joseph R. , McKinnon Laura , Nol Erica , Perz Johanna , Rausch Jennie , Robards Martin , Saalfeld Sarah T. , Senner Nathan R. , Smith Paul A. , Soloviev Mikhail , Solovyeva Diana , Ward David H. , Woodard Paul F. , Sandercock Brett K.
Published: December 2017

The Arctic is experiencing rapidly warming conditions, increasing predator abundance, and diminishing population cycles of keystone species such as lemmings. However, it is still not known how many Arctic animals will respond to a changing climate with altered trophic interactions. We studied clutch size, incubation duration and nest survival of 17 taxa of Arctic‐breeding shorebirds at 16 field sites over 7 years. We predicted that physiological benefits of higher temperatures and earlier snowmelt would increase reproductive effort and nest survival, and we expected increasing predator abundance and decreasing abundance of alternative prey (arvicoline rodents) to have a negative effect on reproduction. Although we observed wide ranges of conditions during our study, we found no effects of covariates on reproductive traits in 12 of 17 taxa. In the remaining taxa, most relationships agreed with our predictions. Earlier snowmelt increased the probability of laying a full clutch from 0.61 to 0.91 for Western Sandpipers, and shortened incubation by 1.42 days forarcticolaDunlin and 0.77 days for Red Phalaropes. Higher temperatures increased the probability of a full clutch from 0.60 to 0.93 for Western Sandpipers and from 0.76 to 0.97 for Red‐necked Phalaropes, and increased daily nest survival rates from 0.9634 to 0.9890 for Semipalmated Sandpipers and 0.9546 to 0.9880 for Western Sandpipers. Higher abundance of predators (foxes) reduced daily nest survival rates only in Western Sandpipers (0.9821–0.9031). In contrast to our predictions, the probability of a full clutch was lowest (0.83) for Semipalmated Sandpipers at moderate abundance of alternative prey, rather than low abundance (0.90). Our findings suggest that in the short‐term, climate warming may have neutral or positive effects on the nesting cycle of most Arctic‐breeding shorebirds.
Exploring the career choices of White and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic women pharmacists: a qualitative study
Authors: Howells Kelly , Bower Peter , Hassell Karen
Published: December 2017

Objective

In the UK, a growing number of females entering pharmacy are women from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups (BAME). Research shows that BAME women are more likely to work in the community sector and be self-employed locums than white women, and Asian women overrepresented in part-time, lower status roles. This study aims to explore the employment choices of white and BAME women pharmacists to see whether their diverse work patterns are the product of individual choices or other organisational factors.

Methods

This study analyses 28 qualitative interviews conducted with 18 BAME and 10 white women pharmacists. The interview schedule was designed to explore early career choices, future career aspirations and key stages in making their career decisions.

Key findings

The findings show that white and BAME women are influenced by different factors in their early career choices. Cultural preferences for self-employment and business opportunities discourage BAME women from hospital sector jobs early in their careers. Resonating with other studies, the findings show that white and BAME women face similar barriers to career progression if they work part-time.

Conclusions

Women working part-time are more likely to face workforce barriers, irrespective of ethnic origin. Cultural preferences may be preventing BAME women from entering the hospital sector. This research is important in the light of current debates about the future shape of pharmacy practice, as well as wider government policy objectives that seek to improve the working lives of health care professionals and promote racial diversity and equality in the workplace.
Emergent leadership among tenants with psychiatric disabilities living in supported housing
Authors: Piat Myra , Sabetti Judith , Padgett Deborah
Published: December 2017

The overall aim of this study was to explore the experiences of people with psychiatric disabilities living as tenants in independent, supported apartments for the first time. Supported housing provides an alternative to structured, custodial housing models, such as foster homes, or board‐and‐care homes, for clients in public mental health systems. This article reports findings on how leadership emerged among tenants after making the transition from custodial to supported housing. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with tenants (n = 24) and included questions on their housing history, current living situation, relationships with staff, participation, and understanding or experience of leadership. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, codes generated, and a thematic analysis conducted using a constructivist approach. The findings revealed an understanding and appreciation of leadership among tenants, who identified six pathways to leadership in their housing as a response to unmet tenant needs. Most tenant leaders emerged outside of formal authority or power structures. Supported housing provides a unique social setting and empowering community where the potential of persons with psychiatric disabilities to assume leadership may be realized and further developed. Mental health professionals working in community housing networks are well placed to harness these face‐to‐face tenant communities, and their natural leaders, as an additional tool in promoting tenant recovery, mutual help, neighbourhood integration, and the broader exercise of citizenship.
Comparing the effects of 3 different pressure ulcer prevention support surfaces on the structure and function of heel and sacral skin: An exploratory cross‐over trial
Authors: Tomova‐Simitchieva Tsenka , Lichterfeld‐Kottner Andrea , Blume‐Peytavi Ulrike , Kottner Jan
Published: December 2017

Special support surfaces are key in pressure ulcer prevention. The aim of this study was to measure the effects of 3 different types of mattresses (reactive gel, active alternating air, basic foam) on skin properties of the sacral and heel skin after 2 hours loading. Fifteen healthy females (median age 66 years) were included. Transepidermal water loss, skin surface temperature, erythema, stratum corneum hydration, epidermal hydration, skin extensibility, elastic function, and recovery as well as skin roughness parameters were measured under controlled room conditions before loading, immediately after loading, and 20 minutes post‐loading in the supine position on the different mattresses. The highest increases in transepidermal water loss, skin temperature, and erythema were observed for the foam mattress after loading, indicating higher deformation and occlusion. Cutaneous stiffness decreased in all 3 groups, indicating structural changes during loading. There was a substantial decrease of mean roughness at the heel skin in the foam group, leading to a flattening of the skin surface. Study results indicate that the type of support surface influences skin structure and function during loading. The gel and air mattress appeared to be more protective compared with the foam mattress, but the differences between the gel and air were minor.
(Re) thinking Emotions in Visual Education Activities: Students' Experiences
Authors: Casian Silvia , Lopes Amélia , Pereira Fátima
Published: December 2017

This article focuses on the emotions of 13 and 14 year‐old students related to visual art education activities. Our aim is to understand the interference of the students' emotions with the processes of the creation and reception of their own pictures, as well as their characteristics in an art education context. The article adopts a Vygotskian theoretical perspective about emotion and aesthetic education that refers to the biopsychological nature of emotion and its cultural determination. The need to transform emotions in art activities is stressed and the teenagers' pictures are interpreted as a means of communication. The data collection was based on questionnaires and interviews with seventh and eighth grade secondary school students. It is concluded that students' emotions are not only present in the creative process and in its result, but also that they could have a significant positive or negative impact on students' motivation and achievement behaviour in art education classes. In this context, the students' pictures, acting as stimuli, may evoke their emotions.
The Current State of Arts Education in Iran: A Case Study in Two Elementary Schools Using Educational Criticism
Authors: Nouri Ali , Farsi Soheila
Published: December 2017

The central aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the recently revised elementary curriculum for arts education in Iran. The study employed an educational criticism method and was conducted in two elementary schools. Data were collected by observation, semi‐structured interviews and curriculum documents over a four‐month period. The research participants consisted of 12 professionals (teachers, coordinators and principals), and 30 students (8–12 year‐olds from different cultural backgrounds). According to the results of this study, the schools’ architecture and environment do not promote creativity, active participation and engagement in the learning process. The general and specific objectives, the content areas, the time allocated to the teaching of each area, teaching methods and assessment procedures have been clearly defined in the official curriculum documents for arts education. Nevertheless, the areas of painting and occasionally handcrafts are the content areas which are taught to students using direct methods of teaching and students’ performance is often evaluated by traditional tests. The study concludes that the current arts curriculum has not been successful, or not as successful as it was intended to be. The most common obstacle to effective arts teaching, however, is the lack of a place for arts within the school programme similar to that of science and mathematics. Lack of enough well‐trained teachers with an educational background in arts education is another obstacle that needs to be addressed in future revisions of the curriculum.
Mind, Language and Artworks as Real Constraints on Students' Critical Reasoning about Meaning in Art
Authors: Maras Karen Elizabeth
Published: December 2017

To engage in discussions of artwork meaning is to engage in critical reasoning, a factor that is central to the interpretation of artworks in the art classroom. While this may appear as a common‐sense claim that reflects the tacit assumptions most art educators have about students' critical dispositions in art, it is also evident that little is known about the deeper structures underlying students’ critical reasoning and how such structures shape students’ interpretations of artworks. Drawing on my research on students’ theories of critical meaning in art, this article explores the nature of practical and theoretical constraints on students’ critical reasoning about the meaning of artworks. I account for how intentional beliefs, language and representational artefacts function as a nexus of real constraints that condition students’ advance into interpretations of the social meaning of art. After briefly outlining the design and methodology of my study, I examine students’ critical reasoning performances during the formative period of development between middle to late childhood. The findings reveal that with increasing age students gradually learn to exercise their own critical intentions and represent inferences that acknowledge the significance of constitutive rules and force of a collective intentionality in the artworld on their interpretations of artworks as artefacts. I then make some conclusions about the relationship of domain‐specific shifts in art understanding, the role of intentionality, representational understanding, beliefs about art and reasoning skills to the linguistic, theoretical and artefactual constraints conditioning students’ intuitive advance into real understandings of art.
The role of stranger harassment experiences in college women's perceived possibility of gender crimes happening to them
Authors: Donnelly Lois C. , Calogero Rachel M.
Published: December 2017

The present study examined the relation between stranger harassment experiences and college women's perceived possibility of gender and nongender crimes happening to them. Undergraduate women attending a British university completed self‐report measures of stranger harassment and self‐objectification (i.e., self‐surveillance and body shame), and then evaluated four vignettes of various crimes on the severity of the crime and the likelihood of the crime happening to them. Results indicated that stranger harassment is a common experience for these British university women. Serial mediation analyses revealed a direct effect of stranger harassment on perceived likelihood of rape and perceived likelihood of intimate partner violence, and an indirect effect of stranger harassment on rape through self‐surveillance, whereas stranger harassment and indices of self‐objectification were unrelated to perceived likelihood of human trafficking and burglary. Discussion is centered on the role of objectifying experiences in perceptions of gender crimes where sexual and physical harm to women's bodies is emphasized, and the potential impact for those women on the receiving end of unwanted sexual objectification.
Crowdsourcing Last Mile Delivery: Strategic Implications and Future Research Directions
Authors: Castillo Vincent E. , Bell John E. , Rose William J. , Rodrigues Alexandre M.
Published: December 2017

The rise of e‐commerce over the past 20 years has created an increased need for responsive omnichannel distribution to meet the last mile challenge. Some companies are experimenting with the use of the sharing economy business model to augment distribution strategies. The use of so‐called “Crowdsourced Logistics” (CSL) is becoming more prevalent in practice, but the role in logistics strategy of this new phenomenon has not been thoroughly investigated and understood. Using a contingency theory lens, this research contributes a nascent understanding of howCSLperforms in terms of logistics effectiveness by simulating same‐day delivery services from a distribution center to 1,000 customer locations throughout New York City under dynamic market conditions and by comparing the results to those of a traditional dedicated fleet of delivery drivers. The findings are analyzed to suggest how firms may find strategic benefit usingCSL. An agenda for future research is provided to explore these strategic implications and to deepen knowledge about theCSLphenomenon.
Effect of lysyl oxidase (LOX) on corpus cavernous fibrosis caused by ischaemic priapism
Authors: Gao Liang , Wu Changjing , Fu Fudong , You Xuanhe , Ma Xue , Qin Feng , Li Tao , Wang Run , Yuan Jiuhong
Published: December 2017

Penile fibrosis caused by ischemic priapism (IP) adversely affects patients’ erectile function. We explored the role of lysyl oxidase (LOX) in rat and human penes after ischemic priapism (IP) to verify the effects of anti‐LOX in relieving penile fibrosis and preventing erectile dysfunction caused by IP in rats. Seventy‐two rats were randomly divided into six groups: control group, control + β‐aminopropionitrile (BAPN) group, 9 hrs group, 9 hrs + BAPN group, 24 hrs group, and 24 hrs + BAPN group. β‐aminopropionitrile (BAPN), a specific inhibitor of LOX, was administered in the drinking water. At 1 week and 4 weeks, half of the rats in each group were randomly selected for the experiment. Compared to the control group, the erectile function of IP rats was significantly decreased while the expression of LOX in the corpus cavernosum was significantly up‐regulated in both 9 and 24 hrs group. Proliferated fibroblasts, decreased corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells/collagen ratios, destroyed endothelial continuity, deposited abnormal collagen and disorganized fibers were observed in IP rats. The relative content of collage I and III was not obviously different among the groups. β‐aminopropionitrile (BAPN) could effectively improve the structure and erectile function of the penis, and enhance recovery. The data in this study suggests that LOX may play an important role in the fibrosis of corpus cavernosum after IP and anti‐LOX may be a novel target for patients suffering with IP.
Monotropein promotes angiogenesis and inhibits oxidative stress‐induced autophagy in endothelial progenitor cells to accelerate wound healing
Authors: Wang Chenggui , Mao Cong , Lou Yiting , Xu Jianxiang , Wang Qingqing , Zhang Zengjie , Tang Qian , Zhang Xiaolei , Xu Huazi , Feng Yongzeng
Published: December 2017

Attenuating oxidative stress‐induced damage and promoting endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) differentiation are critical for ischaemic injuries. We suggested monotropein (Mtp), a bioactive constituent used in traditional Chinese medicine, can inhibit oxidative stress‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction and stimulate bone marrow‐derived EPC (BM‐EPC) differentiation. Results showed Mtp significantly elevated migration and tube formation of BM‐EPCs and prevented tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP)‐induced programmed cell death through apoptosis and autophagy by reducing intracellular reactive oxygen species release and restoring mitochondrial membrane potential, which may be mediated viamTOR/p70S6K/4EBP1 and AMPK phosphorylation. Moreover, Mtp accelerated wound healing in rats, as indicated by reduced healing times, decreased macrophage infiltration and increased blood vessel formation. In summary, Mtp promoted mobilization and differentiation of BM‐EPCs and protected against apoptosis and autophagy by suppressing the AMPK/mTOR pathway, improving wound healing in vivo. This study revealed that Mtp is a potential therapeutic for endothelial injury‐related wounds.
Haematoma scavenging in intracerebral haemorrhage: from mechanisms to the clinic
Authors: Wang Gaiqing , Wang Li , Sun Xin‐gang , Tang Jiping
Published: December 2017

The products of erythrocyte lyses, haemoglobin (Hb) and haem, are recognized as neurotoxins and the main contributors to delayed cerebral oedema and tissue damage after intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH). Finding a means to efficiently promote absorption of the haemolytic products (Hb and haem) around the bleeding area in the brain through stimulating the function of the body's own garbage cleaning system is a novel clinical challenge and critical for functional recovery after ICH. In this review, available information of the brain injury mechanisms underlying ICH and endogenous haematoma scavenging system is provided. Meanwhile, potential intervention strategies are discussed. Intracerebral blood itself has ‘toxic’ effects beyond its volume effect after ICH. Haptoglobin–Hb–CD163 as well as haemopexin–haem–LRP1 is believed to be the most important endogenous scavenging pathway which participates in blood components resolution following ICH. PPARγ–Nrf2 activates the aforementioned clearance pathway and then accelerates haematoma clearance. Meanwhile, the scavenger receptors as novel targets for therapeutic interventions to treat ICH are also highlighted.
ALDH2 gene G487A polymorphism and coronary artery disease: a meta‐analysis including 5644 participants
Authors: Li Yan‐yan , Wang Hui , Wu Jing‐jing , Kim Hyun Jun , Yang Xin‐xing , Geng Hong‐yu , Gong Ge
Published: December 2017

Several studies indicate the mitochondrial Aldehyde Dehydrogenase‐2 (ALDH2) gene G487A polymorphism may be correlated with coronary artery disease (CAD) susceptibility, but a clear consensus has yet to be reached. To elucidate the relationship between the ALDH2 gene G487A polymorphism and CAD within the Chinese population, a meta‐analysis of 5644 subjects from nine individual studies was performed. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals were assessed using random or fixed‐effect models depending the heterogeneity existence or not. Our meta‐analysis found a significant association between ALDH2 gene G487A polymorphism and CAD in the Chinese population under allele (OR: 1.830, 95% CI: 1.560–2.140, P = 1.36 × 10−13), recessive (OR: 1.920, 95% CI: 1.530–2.390, P = 1.20 × 10−8), dominant (OR: 1.593, 95% CI: 1.336–1.900, P = 2.22 × 10−7), homozygous (OR: 2.280, 95% CI: 1.810–2.870, P = 3.17 × 10−12) and heterozygous genetic models (OR: 3.330, 95% CI: 2.070–5.370, P = 7.81 × 10−7). The positive correlation between the ALDH2 gene G487A polymorphism and CAD makes the mutation a strong candidate as a genetic risk marker for CAD. Through further analysis, we also found that A allele carriers of ALDH2 gene G487A polymorphism may be particularly susceptible to CAD.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of epidemiologic observational evidence on the effect of periodontitis on diabetes An update of the EFP‐AAP review
Authors: Graziani Filippo , Gennai Stefano , Solini Anna , Petrini Morena
Published: December 2017

Aim

To update the available evidence on the impact of periodontitis on diabetes control, incidence and complications.

Methods

Observational studies on the effect of periodontitis on diabetes, published after 2012, were identified through electronic databases and hand‐searched journals. Findings were summarized by evidence tables, using PRISMA statement. Quality of the included studies was evaluated through the Newcastle Ottawa scale.

Results

Healthy individuals with periodontitis exhibit a poor glycaemic control and a higher risk of developing diabetes. Individuals affected by diabetes show a deterioration of glycaemic control if also affected by periodontitis and significantly higher prevalence of diabetes‐related complications. Limited evidence is available on gestational diabetes and type 1 diabetes.

Conclusions

Periodontitis has a significant impact on diabetes control, incidence and complications. Nevertheless, the heterogeneity and quality of the included publications suggest that caution should be exercised when interpreting the data and that there remains an important need for additional evidence.
Childhood developmental vulnerabilities associated with early life exposure to infectious and noninfectious diseases and maternal mental illness
Authors: Green Melissa J. , Kariuki Maina , Dean Kimberlie , Laurens Kristin R. , Tzoumakis Stacy , Harris Felicity , Carr Vaughan J.
Published: December 2017

Background

Fetal exposure to infectious and noninfectious diseases may influence early childhood developmental functioning, on the path to later mental illness. Here, we investigated the effects of in utero exposure to maternal infection and noninfectious diseases during pregnancy on offspring developmental vulnerabilities at age 5 years, in the context of estimated effects for early childhood exposures to infectious and noninfectious diseases and maternal mental illness.

Methods

We used population data for 66,045 children from an intergenerational record linkage study (the New South Wales Child Development Study), for whom a cross‐sectional assessment of five developmental competencies (physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and communication) was obtained at school entry, using the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC). Child and maternal exposures to infectious or noninfectious diseases were determined from the NSW Ministry of Health Admitted Patients Data Collection (APDC) and maternal mental illness exposure was derived from both APDC and Mental Health Ambulatory Data collections. Multinomial logistic regression analyses were used to examine unadjusted and adjusted associations between these physical and mental health exposures and child developmental vulnerabilities at age 5 years.

Results

Among the physical disease exposures, maternal infectious diseases during pregnancy and early childhood infection conferred the largest associations with developmental vulnerabilities at age 5 years; maternal noninfectious illness during pregnancy also retained small but significant associations with developmental vulnerabilities even when adjusted for other physical and mental illness exposures and covariates known to be associated with early childhood development (e.g., child's sex, socioeconomic disadvantage, young maternal age, prenatal smoking). Among all exposures examined, maternal mental illness first diagnosed prior to childbirth conferred the greatest odds of developmental vulnerability at age 5 years.

Conclusions

Prenatal exposure to infectious or noninfectious diseases appear to influence early childhood physical, social, emotional and cognitive developmental vulnerabilities that may represent intermediate phenotypes for subsequent mental disorders.
Eosinophilic esophagitis in Japan: Focus on response to acid suppressive therapy
Authors: Ishimura Norihisa , Kinoshita Yoshikazu
Published: December 2017

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by esophageal dysfunction and dense eosinophilic infiltration of esophageal epithelium. According to clinical consensus and guidelines published in 2011, esophageal eosinophilia was classified into two entities based on response to proton pump inhibitor (PPI) administration: EoE and PPI‐responsive esophageal eosinophilia (PPI‐REE). We have performed a series of investigations to determine whether EoE is actually different from PPI‐REE. Consistent with Western reports, more than half of our examined patients with symptomatic esophageal eosinophilia suggestive of EoE achieved histological remission with single PPI therapy. Furthermore, our comparisons of clinical, endoscopic, and histopathological findings between patients with EoE and those with PPI‐REE revealed nearly no differences between them. We also compared gene expression profiles in mucosal biopsy specimens between those groups and found that microarray findings obtained from PPI‐REE patients substantially overlapped with those from EoE patients, suggesting that both represent the same condition or are variations of a single disease. In addition, we have noted that more than half of EoE patients who show resistance to a PPI therapy respond to vonoprazan, a novel potassium‐competitive acid blocker that has been shown to provide more potent and sustained suppression of gastric acid secretion than PPIs. Our results indicate that PPI‐REE may constitute a subtype of EoE. Based on novel evidence including results obtained in our studies, the most recently updated guidelines have included responders to PPI therapy within the spectrum of EoE, abandoning the term PPI‐REE.
“We'll turn your water into Coca‐Cola”: The atomizing practices of oil palm plantation development in Indonesia
Authors: de Vos Rosanne , Köhne Michiel , Roth Dik
Published: December 2017

This article discusses land control strategies and practices for development of large‐scale oil palm plantations in West Kalimantan, Indonesia. In oil palm and “land grab” literature, much attention is paid to potential contributions of free, prior, and informed consent procedures. However, this article demonstrates how “atomizing” practices obstruct such procedures. Some practices stand out: During a preparatory phase of plantation development, companies remain in the background and leave actual land acquisition to local authorities and villagers, thus obscuring their agenda for plantation development. Second, rather than negotiating land transfer in public meetings, companies use a combination of promises, bribes, and threats to gain support or to enforce acceptance. Third, companies gain support by “wedging” themselves into communities, exacerbating disparities within communities. Analysis of this atomized process of plantation development is crucial for a critical understanding of oil palm conflicts.
Percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation in grown‐up congenital heart disease patients: Insights from the Zurich experience
Authors: Oechslin Luca , Corti Roberto , Greutmann Matthias , Kretschmar Oliver , Gaemperli Oliver
Published: December 2017

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess indications, procedural success, complications, echocardiographic, and clinical outcomes of percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation (PPVI) in adult patients with congenital heart disease (CHD).

Background

PPVI offers a non‐surgical treatment option for failing prosthetic conduits in pulmonary position. However, efficacy and clinical outcomes after PPVI are still underreported.

Methods

From January 2008 to March 2016, 25 adult CHD patients with right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) stenosis and/or pulmonary regurgitation underwent PPVI in our institution. Clinical and echocardiographic data was collected at baseline, at 12 months of follow‐up and yearly afterwards.

Results

Tetralogy of Fallot and repaired pulmonary atresia were among the most prevalent underlying congenital defects. Twenty‐one (84%) received a Medtronic Melody® and four (16%) patients an Edwards Sapien valve prosthesis. The PPVI procedure was successful in all 25 patients. Pre‐stenting was performed in all but two (8%) patients. PPVI reduced peak‐to‐peak pulmonary valve gradient from 43 (IQR 28‐60) mmHg to 16 (IQR 14‐22) mmHg (P < 0.001). Periprocedural complications occurred in two (8%) patients (tricuspid valve damage, pulmonary artery perforation). Over a median follow‐up of 43 (IQR 18‐58) months all patients were alive. Only two (8%) required re‐operation and two (8%) developed stent fractures (one of them had not undergone pre‐stenting). NYHA functional class improved significantly, with 20 (80%) patients in NYHA class I on follow‐up.

Conclusions

PPVI with Medtronic Melody or Edwards Sapien valve conduits is safe and provides effective relief from right ventricular outflow tract obstruction or pulmonary regurgitation.
Molecular phylogeny, systematics, and revision of the type species of Lobomonas, L. francei (Volvocales, Chlorophyta) and closely related taxa
Authors: Sausen Nicole , Malavasi Veronica , Melkonian Michael
Published: December 2017

In the present study, three new strains of the rare volvocalean green alga Lobomonas were isolated from field‐collected samples, one from Sardinia (Italy) and two from Argentina, and comparatively studied. The Sardinian and one of the Argentinian strains were identified as Lobomonas francei, the type species of the genus, whereas the second Argentinian strain corresponded to L. panduriformis. Two additional nominal species of Lobomonas from culture collections (L. rostrata and L. sphaerica) were included in the analysis and shown to be morphologically and molecularly identical to the L. francei strains. The presence, number, and shapes of cell wall lobes, the diagnostic criterion of Lobomonas, were shown to be highly variable depending on the chemical composition of the culture medium used. The analyses by SEM gave evidence that the cell wall lobes in Lobomonas originate at the junctions of adjacent cell wall plates by extrusion of gelatinous material. The four L. francei strains had identical nrRNA gene sequences and differed by only one or two substitutions in the ITS1 + ITS2 sequences. In the phylogenetic analyses, L. francei and L. panduriformis were sister taxa; however, another nominal Lobomonas species (L. monstruosa) did not belong to this genus. Lobomonas, together with taxa designated as Vitreochlamys, Tetraspora, and Paulschulzia, formed a monophyletic group that in the combined analyses was sister to the “Chlamydomonas/Volvox‐clade.” Based on these results, Lobomonas was revised, the diagnosis of the type species emended, a lectotype and an epitype designated, and several taxa synonymized with the type species.
School Context and Ethnic Minority Adolescent Religiosity: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Van der Bracht Koen , Vervaet Roselien , D'hondt Fanny , Stevens Peter , Van de Putte Bart , Van Houtte Mieke
Published: December 2017

Previous research has shown that ethnic school composition can have an impact on a number of outcomes for pupils. The influence ethnic school composition has on pupils’ religiosity, however, has not received much attention. Furthermore, the few previous studies that have examined this relationship have relied on cross‐sectional data, thus being unable to separate selection effects from causal effects. In this research note we use longitudinal data collected among pupils in the third (2011–2012) and sixth grade (2014–2015) of secondary schools in Flanders, the northern part of Belgium. We examine changes in religiosity among pupils using cross‐classified multilevel analyses. The results show that there is a positive impact of ethnic school composition on ethnic minority religiosity. This does not mean, however, that pupils become more religious in schools with a higher share of ethnic minority pupils. We rather see that a decline in religiosity among highly religious pupils is attenuated in schools with more ethnic minority pupils.
Red clypeal membrane color predicts immune function in a burying beetle (Coleoptera: Silphidae)
Authors: Wormington J. D. , Luttbeg B.
Published: December 2017

Red and orange coloration commonly signals individual quality, especially in non‐mammalian vertebrates. Because the molecules that create red pigments are involved in immune function, acting as antioxidants among other functions, red and orange body coloration can indicate parasite load and the host's ability to mount a strong immune response. Although body color and immunity are associated in fishes, birds and lizards, to our knowledge no studies have examined the role of red or orange color patches as an indicator of immune function in invertebrates. Burying beetles in the genus Nicrophorus often have clypeal membranes directly above their mandibles which scale hyperallometrically with body size and appear red or orange to the human eye. We investigate whether the hue (a chromatic measure) or brightness (an achromatic measure) of this membrane is associated with melanistic encapsulation response to a foreign body inserted into the abdomen. We find that clypeal membrane hue in the red–orange range and brightness are associated with immune response in Nicrophorus pustulatus beetles. Male clypeal membranes show greater hue variation between individuals; however, for both sexes, redder and darker membranes indicate a stronger encapsulation response. Body size was also correlated with the observed variation in immune response, with smaller individuals tending to encapsulate more strongly. Hue and brightness were also associated with body size, with larger individuals having clypeal membranes that were more orange and brighter, especially for males. This represents the first report of an association between hue and brightness of red integumentary color and induced immunity in an invertebrate animal. Investigation into relationships between color and immunity in a broader range of taxa will augment our understanding of relevant ecological factors leading to the evolution of color signals of immune function.
Basaltic volcanism on the angrite parent body: Comparison with 4 Vesta
Authors: Abernethy F. A. J. , Verchovsky A. B. , Franchi I. A. , Grady M. M.
Published: December 2017

Carbon and nitrogen data from stepped combustion analysis of eight angrites, seven eucrites, and two diogenites, alongside literature data from a further nine eucrites and two diogenites, have been used to assess carbon and nitrogen incorporation and isotope fractionation processes on the angrite parent body (APB), for comparison with volatile behavior on the HED parent body (4 Vesta). A subset of the angrite data has been reported previously (Abernethy et al. ). Two separate families of volatile components were observed. They were (1) moderately volatile material (MVM), mostly combusting between ~500 and 750 °C and indistinguishable from terrestrial contamination and (2) refractory material (RM), mainly released above 750 °C and thought to be carbon (as ) and nitrogen (as N2 or ) dissolved within the silicate lattice, fitting with the slightly oxidized (~IW to IW+2) angrite fO2 conditions. Isotopic fractionation trends for carbon and nitrogen within the plutonic and basaltic (quenched) angrites suggest that the behavior of the two volatile elements is loosely coupled, but that the fractionation process differs between the two angrite subgroups. Comparison with results from eucrites and diogenites implies similarities between speciation of carbon and nitrogen on 4 Vesta and the APB, with the latter being more enriched in volatiles than the former.
Process evaluation improves delivery of a nutrition‐sensitive agriculture programme in Burkina Faso
Authors: Nielsen Jennifer N. , Olney Deanna K. , Ouedraogo Marcellin , Pedehombga Abdoulaye , Rouamba Hippolyte , Yago‐Wienne Fanny
Published: December 2017

Evidence is emerging from rigorous evaluations about the effectiveness of nutrition‐sensitive agriculture programmes in improving nutritional outcomes. Additional evidence can elucidate how different programme components and pathways contribute and can be optimized for impact. The International Food Policy Research Institute, with Helen Keller International, designed a comprehensive framework to evaluate the delivery, utilization, and impact of Helen Keller International's enhanced homestead food production programme in Burkina Faso. After 18 months of implementation, a process evaluation was conducted to examine programme impact pathways, using key informant and semistructured interviews with implementing agents and beneficiaries, and with residents of control communities. Data were analyzed by International Food Policy Research Institute and reviewed with project managers and partners through multiple workshops to identify opportunities to strengthen implementation. Findings illuminated gaps between intended and actual delivery schemes, including input constraints, knowledge gaps among community agents in agriculture and young child nutrition practices, and lower than expected activity by community volunteers. In response, staff developed measures to overcome water constraints and expand vegetable and poultry production, retrained volunteers in certain techniques of food production and counselling for nutrition behaviour change, added small incentives to motivate volunteers, and shaped both immediate and long‐term changes to the programme model. Working closely with International Food Policy Research Institute on the evaluation activities also expanded the repertoire of research methods and skills of Helen Keller International staff. Process evaluation can strengthen programme delivery, utilization, and design. Collaboration between researchers and implementers can improve programme effectiveness, project staff capacity, and advance delivery science.
The influence of age and sex on the vocal repertoire of the Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) and their responses to call playback
Authors: Umeed Rebecca , Niemeyer Attademo Fernanda Löffler , Bezerra Bruna
Published: December 2017

Limited information is available regarding the acoustic communication of Antillean manatees, however, studies have shown that other manatee taxa produce vocalizations as a method of individual recognition and communication. Here, the acoustic signals of 15 Antillean manatees in captivity were recorded, aiming to (1) describe their acoustic repertoire, (2) investigate the influence of sex and age on vocalization, and (3) examine manatee responses to call playback. Six acoustic signals ranging in mean fundamental frequencies from 0.64 kHz to 5.23 kHz were identified: squeaks and screeches were common to adult males, adult females, and juveniles; trills were common to adult males and females; whines were specific to males; creaks were specific to females; and rubbing was specific to juveniles. The structure of squeak vocalizations was significantly different between age and sex classes and screech structure was significantly different between age classes. Squeaks and screeches produced by juveniles had higher frequencies of maximum energy when compared to those produced by adult males and females. A significant increase in the vocalization rate following vocalization playbacks was found for all three age/sex groups. Our results introduce the potential of using acoustic signals in identifying and noninvasively monitoring manatees in the wild in Brazil.
Defining essential processes in plant pathogenesis with Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 disarmed polymutants and a subset of key type III effectors
Authors: Wei Hai‐Lei , Collmer Alan
Published: December 2017

Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 and its derivatives cause disease in tomato, Arabidopsis and Nicotiana benthamiana. The primary virulence factors include a repertoire of 29 effector proteins injected into plant cells by the type III secretion system and the phytotoxin coronatine. The complete repertoire of effector genes and key coronatine biosynthesis genes have been progressively deleted and minimally reassembled to reconstitute basic pathogenic ability in N. benthamiana, and in Arabidopsis plants that have mutations in target genes that mimic effector actions. This approach and molecular studies of effector activities and plant immune system targets have highlighted a small subset of effectors that contribute to essential processes in pathogenesis. Most notably, HopM1 and AvrE1 redundantly promote an aqueous apoplastic environment, and AvrPtoB and AvrPto redundantly block early immune responses, two conditions that are sufficient for substantial bacterial growth in planta. In addition, disarmed DC3000 polymutants have been used to identify the individual effectors responsible for specific activities of the complete repertoire and to more effectively study effector domains, effector interplay and effector actions on host targets. Such work has revealed that AvrPtoB suppresses cell death elicitation in N. benthamiana that is triggered by another effector in the DC3000 repertoire, highlighting an important aspect of effector interplay in native repertoires. Disarmed DC3000 polymutants support the natural delivery of test effectors and infection readouts that more accurately reveal effector functions in key pathogenesis processes, and enable the identification of effectors with similar activities from a broad range of other pathogens that also defeat plants with cytoplasmic effectors.
Investigating barriers to immunosuppressant medication adherence in renal transplant patients
Authors: Cossart Amelia Rose , Staatz Christine Elizabeth , Campbell Scott Bryan , Isbel Nicole Maree , Cottrell William Neil
Published: December 2017

Aim

Immunosuppressant medication non‐adherence can result in allograft rejection and loss. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of non‐adherence and barriers to adherence with immunosuppressant medications, in an adult renal transplant cohort.

Methods

Kidney transplant recipients completed a self‐report survey consisting of five validated questionnaires (Basel Assessment of Adherence to Immunosuppressive Medications Scale (BAASIS), Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire, Immunosuppressant Therapy Barrier Scale, Brief‐Illness Perception Questionnaire, and Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale), and provided sociodemographic information. Adherence was categorised according to BAASIS, with adherence barriers compared between the groups.

Results

One hundred and sixty‐one patients in total completed the survey. Eighty‐six participants (55%) were categorised as non‐adherent, with 45% delaying doses, and 25% skipping doses. Non‐adherent patients were more likely to forget doses (P = 0.005), and more likely to skip doses when their daily routine changed (P < 0.001) or when short of money (P = 0.03). Additionally, non‐adherent patients had less self‐reported understanding about their graft than adherent patients (P = 0.008). Adherence was not associated with a patient's medicine beliefs or perception of locus of control.

Conclusion

Over half the patients self‐reported non‐adherence. The main modifiable barriers leading to non‐adherence were forgetfulness and skipped doses. Personalised interventions focused on habit forming may improve adherence in this population.
Rationing nurses: Realities, practicalities, and nursing leadership theories
Authors: Fast Olive , Rankin Janet
Published: December 2017

In this paper, we examine the practicalities of nurse managers’ work. We expose how managers’ commitments to transformational leadership are undermined by the rationing practices and informatics of hospital reform underpinned by the ideas of new public management. Using institutional ethnography, we gathered data in a Canadian hospital. We began by interviewing and observing frontline leaders, nurse managers, and expanded our inquiry to include interviews with other nurses, staffing clerks, and administrators whose work intersected with that of nurse managers. We learned how nurse managers’ responsibility for staffing is accomplished within tightening budgets and a burgeoning suite of technologies that direct decisions about whether or not there are enough nurses. Our inquiry explicates how technologies organize nurse managers to put aside their professional knowledge. We describe professionally committed nurse leaders attempting to activate transformational leadership and show how their intentions are subsumed within information systems. Seen in light of our analysis, transformational leadership is an idealized concept within which managers’ responsibilities are shaped to conform to institutional purposes.