bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blaming Brussels? The Impact of (News about) the Refugee Crisis on Attitudes towards the EU and National Politics
Authors: Harteveld Eelco , Schaper Joep , De Lange Sarah L. , Van Der Brug Wouter
Published: December 2017

This paper investigates how the refugee crisis has affected attitudes towards the EU, as well as attitudes towards national institutions. By combining different waves of individual survey data, official records of asylum applications and a content analysis of the media, we examine the effect of the numbers of asylum applications and the amount of media coverage thereof on citizens' attitudes towards the EU and national politics. Our findings demonstrate that the number of asylum applications in the EU and the media attention this generates primarily affect euroscepticism, while the number of asylum applications into each individual Member State first and foremost affects attitudes towards national institutions. Our results contribute to the literature on democratic accountability, by demonstrating that, even in a complex multi‐level governance structure, citizens differentiate between levels of government.
Influence of autogenous platelet concentrate on combined GTR/graft therapy in intra‐bony defects: A 13‐year follow‐up of a randomized controlled clinical split‐mouth study
Authors: Cieplik Fabian , Tabenski Laura , Hiller Karl‐Anton , Schmalz Gottfried , Buchalla Wolfgang , Christgau Michael
Published: December 2017

Aim

To investigate the clinical long‐term outcomes 13 years following guided tissue regeneration (GTR) in deep intra‐bony defects with and without additional application of autogenous platelet concentrate (APC).

Methods

In 25 patients, two deep contra‐lateral intra‐bony defects were treated according to GTR using β‐TCP and bio‐resorbable membranes. In test defects, APC was applied additionally. After 13 years, clinical healing results were assessed and compared to results at baseline and after 1 year. Furthermore, a tooth survival analysis was carried out.

Results

After 13 years, 22 patients were available for tooth survival analysis showing 81.8% of test and 86.4% of control teeth still in situ. Based on the 15 patients still available for split‐mouth analysis, median CAL was 10.0 mm in test and 12.0 mm in control sites at baseline. After 1 year, both groups revealed significant CAL gains of 5.0 mm, followed by a new CAL loss of 1.0 mm in the following 12 years. There were no significant differences between test and control sites.

Conclusion

Within the limits of this study, the data show that most of the CAL gain following GTR can be maintained over 13 years. The additional use of APC had no positive influence on the long‐term stability.
The association between coeliac disease and periodontitis: Results from NHANES 2009–2012
Authors: Spinell Thomas , DeMayo Francesco , Cato Matthew , Thai Ashley , Helmerhorst Eva J. , Green Peter H. R. , Lebwohl Benjamin , Demmer Ryan T.
Published: December 2017

Aim

To investigate whether coeliac disease (CD) was associated with periodontitis among a nationally representative sample of US adults.

Materials and Methods

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009–2012 enrolled 6,661 subjects with full‐mouth periodontal examination and serological testing for antitissue transglutaminase (tTg) and antiendomysial (EMA) antibodies. CD was defined as (i) self‐reported physician diagnosis while on a gluten‐free diet; or (ii) tTg levels >10.0 U/ml and positive EMA results. Positive serology without self‐reported diagnosis was defined as undiagnosed CD (UdxCD). Periodontitis was defined according to the CDC/AAP definition. Multivariable linear and logistic models were used to regress the mean probing depth (PD) or attachment loss (AL) outcomes across CD categories (none, diagnosed and undiagnosed).

Results

The prevalence of moderate/severe periodontitis and diagnosed/undiagnosed CD was 40% and 0.74%, respectively. Mean AL was lower among those with CD although results were not statistically significant (p = .67). The odds of periodontitis among individuals with diagnosed and undiagnosed CD were: 0.5(0.22, 1.16) and 0.62(0.1, 3.75), respectively. Mean PD levels among those without CD or with diagnosed or undiagnosed CD were 1.49 ± 0.02, 1.36 ± 0.11 and 1.31 ± 0.11 (p = .03).

Conclusion

CD is associated with modestly lower levels of mean PD but was not associated with mean AL or periodontitis. Larger studies are necessary to enhance precision and strengthen conclusions.
Acetylcholine precursor, citicoline (cytidine 5′‐diphosphocholine), reduces hypoglycaemia‐induced neuronal death in rats
Authors: Kim J. H. , Choi B. Y. , Kho A. R. , Lee S. H. , Jeong J. H. , Hong D. K. , Lee S. H. , Sohn M. , Ryu O. H. , Choi M.‐G. , Suh S. W.
Published: December 2017

Citicoline (cytidine 5′‐diphosphocholine) is an important precursor for the synthesis of neuronal plasma membrane phospholipids, mainly phosphatidylcholine. The administration of citicoline serves as a choline donor for the synthesis of acetylcholine. Citicoline has been shown to reduce the neuronal injury in animal models with cerebral ischaemia and in clinical trials of stroke patients. Citicoline is currently being investigated in a multicentre clinical trial. However, citicoline has not yet been examined the context of hypoglycaemia‐induced neuronal death. To clarify the therapeutic impact of citicoline in hypoglycaemia‐induced neuronal death, we used a rat model with insulin‐induced hypoglycaemia. Acute hypoglycaemia was induced by i.p. injection of regular insulin (10 U kg‐1) after overnight fasting, after which iso‐electricity was maintained for 30 minutes. Citicoline injections (500 mg/kg, i.p.) were started immediately after glucose reperfusion. We found that post‐treatment of citicoline resulted in significantly reduced neuronal death, oxidative injury and microglial activation in the hippocampus compared to vehicle‐treated control groups at 7 days after induced hypoglycaemia. Citicoline administration after hypoglycaemia decreased immunoglobulin leakage via blood‐brain barrier disruption in the hippocampus compared to the vehicle group. Citicoline increased choline acetyltransferase expression for phosphatidylcholine synthesis after hypoglycaemia. Altogether, the present findings suggest that neuronal membrane stabilisation by citicoline administration can save neurones from the degeneration process after hypoglycaemia, as seen in several studies of ischaemia. Therefore, the results suggest that citicoline may have therapeutic potential to reduce hypoglycaemia‐induced neuronal death.
Option Mispricing around Nontrading Periods
Authors: JONES CHRISTOPHER S. , SHEMESH JOSHUA
Published: December 2017

We find that option returns are significantly lower over nontrading periods, the vast majority of which are weekends. Our evidence suggests that nontrading returns cannot be explained by risk, but rather are the result of widespread and highly persistent option mispricing driven by the incorrect treatment of stock return variance during periods of market closure. The size of the effect implies that the broad spectrum of finance research involving option prices should account for nontrading effects. Our study further suggests how alternative industry practices could improve the efficiency of option markets in a meaningful way.
Chinese medicine Tongxinluo capsule alleviates cerebral microcirculatory disturbances in ischemic stroke by modulating vascular endothelial function and inhibiting leukocyte–endothelial cell interactions in mice: A two‐photon laser scanning microscopy study
Authors: Liu Shen , Wei Cong , Kang Ning , He Qilong , Liang Junqing , Wang Hongtao , Chang Liping , Chen Daohong , Zhang Qiuyan , Chang Chengcheng , Zhang Junfang , Ren Hong , Wu Yiling
Published: December 2017

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of TXL, a Chinese medicine prescription, on cerebral microcirculatory disturbances after pMCAO in mice using TPLSM and further explore the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Adlut male C57BL/6J mice were subjected to pMCAO and orally administered with TXL (3.0, 1.5 and 0.75 g/kg/d) at 1, 3, and 21 hours after pMCAO. The following parameters were examined at 6 and 24 hours after pMCAO: neurological deficits, infarct volume, BBB permeability, cerebral microvessel structure, brain microcirculation (TPLSM imaging), vasoactive factors, and adhesion molecules.

Results

TXL improved neurological deficits, reduced infarct volume, attenuated BBB disruption, protected cerebral microvessel structure, increased cerebral capillary flow velocity and volume flux, and inhibited leukocyte–endothelial cell interactions at 6 or 24 hours after pMCAO. The therapeutic efficacy was exerted in a dose‐dependent manner. Further study revealed that TXL (high dose) regulated the expression of PGI2, TXA2, and ET‐1, and suppressed ICAM‐1 and P‐selectin.

Conclusions

TXL alleviates cerebral microcirculatory disturbances against ischemic injury by modulating endothelial function and inhibiting leukocyte–endothelial cell interactions. These effects are associated with regulating the expression of PGI2, TXA2, and ET‐1, and suppressing ICAM‐1 and P‐selectin expression.
Parental experiences and perceptions of infant complementary feeding: a qualitative evidence synthesis
Authors: Matvienko‐Sikar K. , Kelly C. , Sinnott C. , McSharry J. , Houghton C. , Heary C. , Toomey E. , Byrne M. , Kearney P. M.
Published: December 2017

Background

Interventions to prevent childhood obesity increasingly focus on infant feeding, but demonstrate inconsistent effects. A comprehensive qualitative evidence synthesis is essential to better understand feeding behaviours and inform intervention development. The aim of this study is to synthesize evidence on perceptions and experiences of infant feeding and complementary feeding recommendations.

Methods

Databases CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Academic Search Complete, SocIndex and Maternity and Infant Care were searched from inception to May 2017. Eligible studies examined parents' experiences of complementary feeding of children (<2 years). Data were synthesized using thematic synthesis.

Results

Twenty‐five studies met inclusion criteria for review. Four key themes emerged. ‘Guidelines and advice’ highlights variety and inconsistencies between sources of complementary feeding information. ‘Stage of weaning’ describes infant feeding as a process involving different stages. ‘Knowing and trying’ outlines parents' engagement in feeding approaches based on instinct, prior experience or trial and error. ‘Daily life’ highlights problematic cost and time constraints for parents.

Discussion

Parents predominantly understand and want to engage in healthy feeding processes. Consideration of infant feeding as a process that changes over time is necessary to support parents. Provision of clear, consistent information and guidance from trusted sources on when, what and how to feed is also essential.
Peptidoglycan synthesis in Tannerella forsythia: Scavenging is the modus operandi
Authors: Ruscitto A. , Sharma A.
Published: December 2017

Tannerella forsythia is a Gram‐negative oral pathogen strongly associated with periodontitis. This bacterium has an absolute requirement for exogenous N‐acetylmuramic acid (MurNAc), an amino sugar that forms the repeating disaccharide unit with amino sugar N‐acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) of the peptidoglycan backbone. In silico genome analysis indicates that T. forsythia lacks the key biosynthetic enzymes needed for the de novo synthesis of MurNAc, and so relies on alternative ways to meet its requirement for peptidoglycan biosynthesis. In the subgingival niche, the bacterium can acquire MurNAc and peptidoglycan fragments (muropeptides) released by the cohabiting bacteria during their cell wall breakdown associated with cell division. Tannerella forsythia is able to also use host sialic acid (Neu5Ac) in lieu of MurNAc or muropeptides for its survival during the biofilm growth. Evidence suggests that the bacterium might be able to shunt sialic acid into a metabolic pathway leading to peptidoglycan synthesis. In this review, we explore the mechanisms by which T. forsythia is able to scavenge MurNAc, muropeptide and sialic acid for its peptidoglycan synthesis, and the impact of these scavenging activities on pathogenesis.
Dynamic modelling of limitations on improving leaf CO2 assimilation under fluctuating irradiance
Authors: Morales Alejandro , Kaiser Elias , Yin Xinyou , Harbinson Jeremy , Molenaar Jaap , Driever Steven M. , Struik Paul C.
Published: December 2017

A dynamic model of leaf CO2 assimilation was developed as an extension of the canonical steady‐state model, by adding the effects of energy‐dependent non‐photochemical quenching (qE), chloroplast movement, photoinhibition, regulation of enzyme activity in the Calvin cycle, metabolite concentrations, and dynamic CO2 diffusion. The model was calibrated and tested successfully using published measurements of gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence on Arabidopsis thaliana ecotype Col‐0 and several photosynthetic mutants and transformants affecting the regulation of Rubisco activity (rca‐2 and rwt43), non‐photochemical quenching (npq4‐1 and npq1‐2), and sucrose synthesis (spsa1). The potential improvements on CO2 assimilation under fluctuating irradiance that can be achieved by removing the kinetic limitations on the regulation of enzyme activities, electron transport, and stomatal conductance were calculated in silico for different scenarios. The model predicted that the rates of activation of enzymes in the Calvin cycle and stomatal opening were the most limiting (up to 17% improvement) and that effects varied with the frequency of fluctuations. On the other hand, relaxation of qE and chloroplast movement had a strong effect on average low‐irradiance CO2 assimilation (up to 10% improvement). Strong synergies among processes were found, such that removing all kinetic limitations simultaneously resulted in improvements of up to 32%.
Pulmonary nodules and nodular scleritis in a teenager with superficial granulomatous pyoderma gangrenosum
Authors: Contreras‐Verduzco Francisco A. , Espinosa‐Padilla Sara E. , Orozco‐Covarrubias Luz , Alva‐Chaire Adriana , Rojas‐Maruri César M. , Sáez‐de‐Ocariz Marimar
Published: December 2017

Superficial granulomatous pyoderma gangrenosum, a rare variant of pyoderma gangrenosum, has been considered to be the most benign form of the disease. We present the case of a 15‐year‐old boy with pulmonary involvement and nodular scleritis associated with this unusual type of pyoderma gangrenosum and discuss its differential diagnosis.
A prospective study of topical carteolol therapy in Chinese infants with superficial infantile hemangioma
Authors: Gan Li‐qiang , Wang Hua , Ni Si‐li , Tan Chun‐hua
Published: December 2017

Background/Objective

To report our observations from a trial of the short‐term effectiveness and safety of topical carteolol hydrochloride drops to treat infantile hemangiomas (IHs).

Methods

From October 2012 to September 2015, the study recruited 349 children with superficial IHs. Participants were randomized to two groups: treatment (n = 224 who received 2% carteolol hydrochloride drops administered to the lesion surface twice daily) and observation (n = 125 who did not receive treatment). Therapy duration was 6 months.

Results

The mean age at the beginning of treatment was 3.2 months. Treatment responses were categorized as class 1 (total regression), class 2 (partial regression or controlled growth), or class 3 (no response). Of infants receiving carteolol treatment, 10.7% (24 patients) were categorized as class 1, 72.3% (162 patients) as class 2, and 17.0% (38 patients) as class 3. Of infants in the observation group, 5.6% (7 patients) were categorized as class 1, 25.6% (32 patients) as class 2, and 68.8% (86 patients) as class 3. No adverse effects were noted during treatment.

Conclusion

Carteolol is an effective, safe topical treatment for superficial IHs. Carteolol may be used to treat proliferative superficial IHs, particularly in infants younger than 6 months.
Holmes heart and tetralogy of Fallot in association with PHACE
Authors: Peterman Caitlin M. , Morley Keith W. , Yan Albert C. , Castelo‐Soccio Leslie A. , Liang Marilyn G.
Published: December 2017

PHACE is an association between large infantile hemangiomas and brain, arterial, cardiac, and/or ocular abnormalities. Aortic or subclavian aberrations are the most common cardiovascular anomalies in PHACE, whereas complex congenital heart disease is rare. We report a case of Holmes heart and three cases of tetralogy of Fallot in PHACE association.
Reasons for non‐exclusive breast‐feeding in the first 6 months
Authors: Zielinska Monika A. , Hamulka Jadwiga
Published: December 2017

Background

Maternal sociodemographic, delivery‐ and infant‐related factors as well as hospital practice are relevant for breast‐feeding practice. The aim of this study was to identify the sociodemographic and delivery‐related factors that may affect exclusive breast‐feeding (EBF) of infants aged 0–6 months in Poland.

Methods

A total of 446 mothers (18–42 years old) of infants aged 0–6 months were interviewed using the computer‐assisted Web interview method. The questionnaire collected information about maternal sociodemographic situation and anthropometrics, delivery‐related factors, and infant feeding‐related factors. Data were analyzed using the chi‐squared test and Mann–Whitney U‐test. Predictors of non‐exclusive breast‐feeding (N‐EBF) in the first 6 months of life were assessed on multivariate logistic regression.

Results

A total of 43% of mothers did not breast‐feed exclusively (n = 191; N‐EBF group) and 57% did breast‐feed exclusively during the study period (n = 255; EBF group). After adjustment for other potential risk factors, the highest risk factors for N‐EBF were maternal age <20 years (OR, 6.12; P ≤ 0.01), and inadequate breast‐feeding knowledge (OR, 3.43; P ≤ 0.01), whereas the lowest risk was associated with pre‐pregnancy intention to breast‐feed (OR, 0.35; P ≤ 0.01), very good knowledge about breast‐feeding (OR, 0.45; P ≤ 0.001) and maternal age 26–30 years (OR, 0.48; P ≤ 0.001). In a multivariate model, maternal education, employment status and preterm delivery were no longer statistically significant.

Conclusions

Breast‐feeding practice is influenced by a variety of factors, including sociodemographic and psychosocial conditions, maternal obesity and mode of delivery. Further work is needed to establish the role of education and prophylactic programs in modifying the aforementioned risk factors.
Naegleria fowleri immunization modifies lymphocytes and APC of nasal mucosa
Authors: Carrasco‐Yepez M. M. , Campos‐Rodríguez R. , Reséndiz‐Albor A. A. , Peña‐Juárez C. , Contis‐Montes de Oca A. , Arciniega‐Martínez I. M. , Bonilla‐Lemus P. , Rojas‐Hernandez S.
Published: December 2017

We investigated whether intranasal immunization with amoebic lysates plus cholera toxin modified the populations of T and B lymphocytes, macrophages and dendritic cells by flow cytometry from nose‐associated lymphoid tissue (NALT), cervical lymph nodes (CN), nasal passages (NP) and spleen (SP). In all immunized groups, the percentage of CD4 was higher than CD8 cells. CD45 was increased in B cells from mice immunized. We observed IgA antibody‐forming cell (IgA‐AFC) response, mainly in NALT and NP. Macrophages from NP and CN expressed the highest levels of CD80 and CD86 in N. fowleri lysates with either CT or CT alone immunized mice, whereas dendritic cells expressed high levels of CD80 and CD86 in all compartment from immunized mice. These were lower than those expressed by macrophages. Only in SP from CT‐immunized mice, these costimulatory molecules were increased. These results suggest that N. fowleri and CT antigens are taking by APCs, and therefore, protective immunity depends on interactions between APCs and T cells from NP and CN. Consequently, CD4 cells stimulate the differentiation from B lymphocytes to AFC IgA‐positive; antibody that we previously found interacting with trophozoites in the nasal lumen avoiding the N. fowleri attachment to nasal epithelium.
An extremely rare case of Epstein‐Barr virus‐associated gastric carcinoma with differentiation to neuroendocrine carcinoma
Authors: Shimizu Ai , Takahashi Toshiyuki , Kushima Ryoji , Sentani Kazuhiro , Yasui Wataru , Matsuno Yoshihiro
Published: December 2017

Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV)‐associated gastric carcinoma (EBVGC) is defined as a neoplasm comprising monoclonal proliferation of EBV‐infected gastric epithelial cells. Although the typical histology is gastric carcinoma with lymphoid stroma (GCLS), the histologic features of the tumor vary. We report herein the case of a 78‐year‐old man with multiple simultaneous EBVGCs revealing different histopathologic morphologies; one was mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC), and the other was GCLS. Both tumor types exhibited positive results for EBV in situ hybridization. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the first report of EBVGC showing neuroendocrine differentiation. Immunohistochemistry also revealed a loss of gastrointestinal features, including CDX2, MUC5AC, and MUC6 expression, among tumor cells from the neuroendocrine component of the MANEC. We describe the pathologic features of this rare neoplasm and discuss the mechanisms underlying the neuroendocrine differentiation of EBVGC cells, along with providing a brief review of the literature.
Identifying potential molecular factors involved in Bacillus amyloliquefaciens 5113 mediated abiotic stress tolerance in wheat
Authors: Abd El‐Daim I. A. , Bejai S. , Fridborg I. , Meijer J.
Published: December 2017

Abiotic stressors are main limiting factors for agricultural production around the world. Plant growth‐promoting bacteria have been successfully used to improve abiotic stress tolerance in several crops including wheat. However, the molecular changes involved in the improvement of stress management are poorly understood.

The present investigation addressed some molecular factors involved in bacterially induced plant abiotic stress responses by identifying differentially expressed genes in wheat (Triticum aestivum) seedlings treated with the beneficial bacterium Bacillus amyloliquefaciens subsp. plantarum UCMB5113 prior to challenge with abiotic stress conditions such as heat, cold or drought.

cDNA‐AFLP analysis revealed differential expression of more than 200 transcript‐derived fragments (TDFs) in wheat leaves. Expression of selected TDFs was confirmed using RT‐PCR. DNA sequencing of 31 differentially expressed TDFs revealed significant homology with both known and unknown genes in database searches. Virus‐induced gene silencing of two abscisic acid‐related TDFs showed different effects upon heat and drought stress.

We conclude that treatment with B. amyloliquefaciens 5113 caused molecular modifications in wheat in order to induce tolerance against heat, cold and drought stress. Bacillus treatment provides systemic effects that involve metabolic and regulatory functions supporting both growth and stress management.
Local differentiation of cell wall matrix polysaccharides in sinuous pavement cells: its possible involvement in the flexibility of cell shape
Authors: Sotiriou P. , Giannoutsou E. , Panteris E. , Galatis B. , Apostolakos P.
Published: December 2017

The distribution of homogalacturonans (HGAs) displaying different degrees of esterification as well as of callose was examined in cell walls of mature pavement cells in two angiosperm and two fern species. We investigated whether local cell wall matrix differentiation may enable pavement cells to respond to mechanical tension forces by transiently altering their shape.

HGA epitopes, identified with 2F4, JIM5 and JIM7 antibodies, and callose were immunolocalised in hand‐made or semithin leaf sections. Callose was also stained with aniline blue. The structure of pavement cells was studied with light and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

In all species examined, pavement cells displayed wavy anticlinal cell walls, but the waviness pattern differed between angiosperms and ferns. The angiosperm pavement cells were tightly interconnected throughout their whole depth, while in ferns they were interconnected only close to the external periclinal cell wall and intercellular spaces were developed between them close to the mesophyll. Although the HGA epitopes examined were located along the whole cell wall surface, the 2F4‐ and JIM5‐ epitopes were especially localised at cell lobe tips. In fern pavement cells, the contact sites were impregnated with callose and JIM5‐HGA epitopes. When tension forces were applied on leaf regions, the pavement cells elongated along the stretching axis, due to a decrease in waviness of anticlinal cell walls. After removal of tension forces, the original cell shape was resumed.

The presented data support that HGA epitopes make the anticlinal pavement cell walls flexible, in order to reversibly alter their shape. Furthermore, callose seems to offer stability to cell contacts between pavement cells, as already suggested in photosynthetic mesophyll cells.
Life‐history trade‐offs vary with resource availability across the geographic range of a widespread plant
Authors: Villellas J. , García M. B.
Published: December 2017

Trade‐offs between reproduction, growth and survival arise from limited resource availability in plants. Environmental stress is expected to exacerbate these negative correlations, but no studies have evaluated variation in life‐history trade‐offs throughout species geographic ranges. Here we analyse the costs of growth and reproduction across the latitudinal range of the widespread herb Plantago coronopus in Europe.

We monitored the performance of thousands of individuals in 11 populations of P. coronopus, and tested whether the effects of growth and reproduction on a set of vital rates (growth, probability of survival, probability of reproduction and fecundity) varied with local precipitation and soil fertility. To account for variation in internal resources among individuals, we analysed trade‐offs correcting for differences in size.

Growth was negatively affected by previous growth and reproduction. We also found costs of growth and reproduction on survival, reproduction probability and fecundity, but only in populations with low soil fertility. Costs also increased with precipitation, possibly due to flooding‐related stress. In contrast, growth was positively correlated with subsequent survival, and there was a positive covariation in reproduction between consecutive years under certain environments, a potential strategy to exploit temporary benign conditions.

Overall, we found both negative and positive correlations among vital rates across P. coronopus geographic range. Trade‐offs predominated under stressful conditions, and positive correlations arose particularly between related traits like reproduction investment across years. By analysing multiple and diverse fitness components along stress gradients, we can better understand life‐history evolution across species’ ranges, and their responses to environmental change.
GsSLAH3, a Glycine soja slow type anion channel homolog, positively modulates plant bicarbonate stress tolerance
Authors: Duan Xiangbo , Yu Yang , Duanmu Huizi , Chen Chao , Sun Xiaoli , Cao Lei , Li Qiang , Ding Xiaodong , Liu Beidong , Zhu Yanming
Published: December 2017

Alkaline stress is a major form of abiotic stress that severely inhibits plant growth and development, thus restricting crop productivity. However, little is known about how plants respond to alkali. In this study, a slow‐type anion channel homolog 3 gene, GsSLAH3, was isolated and functionally characterized. Bioinformatics analysis showed that the GsSLAH3 protein contains 10 transmembrane helices. Consistently, GsSLAH3 was found to locate on plasma membrane by transient expression in onion epidermal cells. In wild soybeans, GsSLAH3 expression was induced by NaHCO3 treatment, suggesting its involvement in plant response to alkaline stress. Ectopic expression of GsSLAH3 in yeast increased sensitivity to alkali treatment. Dramatically, overexpression of GsSLAH3 in Arabidopsis thaliana enhanced alkaline tolerance during the germination, seedling and adult stages. More interestingly, we found that transgenic lines also improved plant tolerance to KHCO3 rather than high pH treatment. A nitrate content analysis of Arabidopsis shoots showed that GsSLAH3 overexpressing lines accumulated more NO3− than wild‐type. In summary, our data suggest that GsSLAH3 is a positive alkali responsive gene that increases bicarbonate resistance specifically.
Collective Civic Action in Multicultural Neighbourhoods: Two Cases in Melbourne
Authors: Dekker Karien , Lee Julian C.H. , Phipps Peter
Published: December 2017

The paper provides tentative empirical evidence against Robert D. Putnam's claim that ethnic diversity is a threat to collective civic action, and finds support for Robert J. Sampson's proposition that established organisations foster collective civic action. The aim of this paper is twofold: to describe: (i) the ways in which volunteers and professionals make sense of and understand the multicultural neighbourhood; and (ii) how that impacts on collective civic action in the neighbourhood. The paper takes a small scale mixed‐methods approach (9 semi structured interviews and a small scale quantitative survey (N = 39)), comparing two neighbourhoods with similar characteristics in terms of ethnic diversity and socio‐economic problems. The findings show that problems associated with ethnicity are not the most pressing ones for recent migrants. Instead they struggle with work, housing, a lack of supportive networks, unfamiliarity with the educational system, and language problems. The paper concludes that the multicultural discursive framework is a salutary one for those working and living in ethnically diverse neighbourhoods.
Prolonged platelet storage associated with increased frequency of transfusion‐related adverse events
Authors: Losos M. , Biller E. , Li J. , Blower L. , Hamad D. , Patel G. , Scrape S. , Cataland S. , Chen J.
Published: December 2017

Background

Platelets (PLTs) have been associated with the highest rate of transfusion‐associated adverse events (AEs) among all blood products. Most of PLT‐associated AEs are considered to have an inflammatory mechanism. However, it is still unclear whether prolonged storage of platelets is associated with an increased rate of transfusion‐related AEs, especially in the era of universal prestorage leucoreduction.

Methods/Materials

In this retrospective study, 52 649 PLT products consisting of about 80% apheresis PLTs and 20% whole blood‐derived (WBD) PLTs were transfused to 9415 patients from July 2011 to March 2017. All the PLTs were leucoreduced prior to storage. All but 69 units of the apheresis PLTs were irradiated and none of WBD PLTs were irradiated. During this period, a total of 284 AEs that were reported to the transfusion service were analysed.

Results

Univariate and multivariate logistic analyses showed that apheresis/irradiated PLTs and PLT age were associated with a significantly increased frequency of inflammation type AEs (OR (95% CI): 2·24 (1·32, 4·15) and 1·30 (1·12, 1·52), respectively). There was a significant increase in the frequency of inflammation AEs associated with prolonged storage of apheresis/irradiated PLTs [OR (95% CI): 1·26 (1·03, 1·53)]. In contrast, there was no association between allergic symptoms and PLT age. Moreover, the frequency of transfusion AEs associated with apheresis/irradiated PLTs (57·2/10 000) was significantly higher than that of WBD/nonirradiated PLTs (26·0/10 000) (P < 0·01).

Conclusion

Prolonged storage of apheresis/irradiated PLTs was associated with a higher frequency of inflammation AEs. Apheresis/irradiated PLTs caused more AEs than WBD/nonirradiated PLTs.
What motivates men to donate blood? A systematic review of the evidence
Authors: Carver A. , Chell K. , Davison T. E. , Masser B. M.
Published: December 2017

Background and Objectives

Effective recruitment and retention of male donors are vital for the ongoing provision of blood products. Compared with females, male donors are less likely to be medically deferred or experience vasovagal reactions and are typically preferred for plasmapheresis donation in voluntary non‐remunerated settings. However, females outnumber males among donors aged under 40 years. This systematic review aimed to synthesize evidence and identify key motivators for blood donation among males to inform targeted recruitment/retention campaigns.

Materials and Methods

Databases (e.g.EBSCOhost, Web of Science) were searched using terms (dona*ORdono*)AND(bloodORaphaeresisORapheresisORplasma*ORplatelet*ORplatlet*) in titleAND(maleORgenderORsexORfemale)AND(motivat*ORintentionORattitudeORbehavi*ORpredictorORbarrierORdeter*)NOT(organORspermORtissueORautologousORoocyte) in text. Two researchers independently systematically scanned quantitative, full‐text, English language, peer‐reviewed publications from 1990 to 2015 that examined males/females separately with outcomes of blood donation or self‐reported intention. Two additional researchers resolved discrepancies.

Results

Among 28 identified articles, the most frequently cited motivators for male blood product donation were as follows: altruism; positive attitude towards incentives; health check(s); subjective norms. Altruism was less pronounced among males compared with females and was combined with ‘warm glow’ in novice males (impure altruism). Perceived health benefits and incentives (e.g. coffee mugs) were stronger motivators of males than females.

Conclusion

Marketing campaigns for recruitment/retention of male donors should focus on identified motivators rather than take a ‘one‐size‐fits‐all’ approach.
Lumped Parameter and Three-Dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation of a Variable Displacement Vane Pump for Engine Lubrication
Authors: Rundo Massimo , Altare Giorgio
Published: December 2017

The paper describes the modeling and the experimental tests of a variable displacement vane pump for engine lubrication. The approach used for the simulation has involved three-dimensional (3D) commercial tools for tuning a zero-dimensional (0D) customized model implemented in the LMS Amesim® environment. Different leakage paths are considered and the axial clearances are variable to take into account the deformation of the pump cover, calculated through a finite element analysis with ANSYS. The vane tip clearances are calculated as function of the dynamic equilibrium equation of the vanes. The displacement control takes into account the internal forces on the stator due to the pressure in all variable chambers and to the contact force exerted by the vanes. The discharge coefficients in the resistive components have been tuned by means of a complete 3D transient model of the pump built with PumpLinx®. The tuned 0D model has been proved to be reliable for the determination of the steady-state flow-speed and flow-pressure curves, with a correct estimation of the internal leakages and of the pressure imposed by the displacement control. The pump has been also tested using a simplified circuit, and a fair agreement has been found in the evaluation of the delivery pressure ripple.
Effects of Femtosecond Laser Surface Processed Nanoparticle Layers on Pool Boiling Heat Transfer Performance
Authors: Kruse Corey , Lucis Mike , Shield Jeff E. , Anderson Troy , Zuhlke Craig , Alexander Dennis , Gogos George , Ndao Sidy
Published: December 2017

An experimental investigation of the effects of layers of nanoparticles formed during femtosecond laser surface processing (FLSP) on pool boiling heat transfer performance has been conducted. Five different stainless steel 304 samples with slightly different surface features were fabricated through FLSP, and pool boiling heat transfer experiments were carried out to study the heat transfer characteristics of each surface. The experiments showed that the layer(s) of nanoparticles developed during the FLSP processes, which overlay FLSP self-organized microstructures, can either improve or degrade boiling heat transfer coefficients (HTC) depending on the overall thickness of the layer(s). This nanoparticle layer thickness is an indirect result of the type of microstructure created. The HTCs were found to decrease with increasing nanoparticle layer thickness. This trend has been attributed to added thermal resistance. Using a focused ion beam milling process and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the physical and chemical properties of the nanoparticle layers were characterized and used to explain the observed heat transfer results. Results suggest that there is an optimal nanoparticle layer thickness and material composition such that both the HTCs and critical heat flux (CHF) are enhanced.
Stability and Performance Analysis of Six-Rotor Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Wind Disturbance
Authors: Li Xianying , Zhao Biao , Yao Yu , Wu Hongtao , Liu Yunping
Published: December 2017

The effect of wind disturbances on the stability of six-rotor unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) was investigated, exploring the various disturbances in different directions. The simulation model-based Euler–Poincare equation was established to investigate the spectra of Lyapunov exponents. Next, the value of the Lyapunov exponents was used to evaluate the stability of the systems. The results obtained show that the various speeds of rotors are optimized to keep up the stability after disturbances. In addition, the flight experiment with the hitting gust has been carried out to verify the validity and accuracy of the simulation results.
Unveiling massive numbers of cancer-related urinary-microRNA candidates via nanowires
Authors: Yasui Takao , Yanagida Takeshi , Ito Satoru , Konakade Yuki , Takeshita Daiki , Naganawa Tsuyoshi , Nagashima Kazuki , Shimada Taisuke , Kaji Noritada , Nakamura Yuta , Thiodorus Ivan Adiyasa , He Yong , Rahong Sakon , Kanai Masaki , Yukawa Hiroshi , Ochiya Takahiro , Kawai Tomoji , Baba Yoshinobu
Published: December 2017

We demonstrate the first reported methodology using nanowires that unveils massive numbers of cancer-related urinary microRNAs.
Cryo-mediated exfoliation and fracturing of layered materials into 2D quantum dots
Authors: Wang Yan , Liu Yang , Zhang Jianfang , Wu Jingjie , Xu Hui , Wen Xiewen , Zhang Xiang , Tiwary Chandra Sekhar , Yang Wei , Vajtai Robert , Zhang Yong , Chopra Nitin , Odeh Ihab Nizar , Wu Yucheng , Ajayan Pulickel M.
Published: December 2017

We present a general approach to produce pristine 2D QDs directly from bulk layered materials in common solvents.
Impact of birth characteristics, breast feeding and vital statistics on the eruption of primary teeth among healthy infants in Saudi Arabia: an observational study
Authors: Alnemer Kholoud Abdullah , Pani Sharat Chandra , Althubaiti Alaa M , Bawazeer Manal
Published: December 2017

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the impact of gender, birth weight, maternal age, type of delivery, gestational age and feeding practices on the eruption of teeth in children with no underlying medical conditions or developmental defects in their first year of life.

Design

A cross-sectional observational study design was used.

Setting

A primary healthcare setting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Participants

All children in their first year of life attending a vaccination clinic (n=422) were included in the study. Infants with chronic childhood illnesses, those who were below the 5th percentile in height or weight, infants with congenital birth defects and chronic illnesses, infants who were born preterm and low birth weight infants were excluded from the study.

Outcome measures

The type of delivery, birth weight, age of mother, height and weight percentile for age (as plotted on the WHO growth chart for infants) and feeding practices were recorded by the examiner, and this was followed by a clinical examination to determine the presence or absence of each tooth. Regression models were developed to determine the effect of the different variables on the presence of primary teeth.

Results

There was a significant association between the weight percentile of the child (adjusted for age) and the number of erupted primary teeth, suggesting that heavier children have an earlier eruption of teeth. No association was observed between birth weight, height percentile for age or maternal age at the time of birth and the number of erupted primary teeth. Children who were exclusively breast fed were significantly more likely to have an erupted first primary tooth earlier than non-breastfed group.

Conclusions

Breast feeding and the weight of the child may have an influence on the eruption of primary teeth in the first year of life.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effectiveness of pharmacist-led medication reconciliation in the community after hospital discharge
Authors: McNab Duncan , Bowie Paul , Ross Alastair , MacWalter Gordon , Ryan Martin , Morrison Jill
Published: December 2017

Background

Pharmacists’ completion of medication reconciliation in the community after hospital discharge is intended to reduce harm due to prescribed or omitted medication and increase healthcare efficiency, but the effectiveness of this approach is not clear. We systematically review the literature to evaluate intervention effectiveness in terms of discrepancy identification and resolution, clinical relevance of resolved discrepancies and healthcare utilisation, including readmission rates, emergency department attendance and primary care workload.

Methods

This is a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of extracted data. Medline, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), EMBASE, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database (AMED),Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), Scopus, NHS Evidence and the Cochrane databases were searched using a combination of medical subject heading terms and free-text search terms. Controlled studies evaluating pharmacist-led medication reconciliation in the community after hospital discharge were included. Study quality was appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. Evidence was assessed through meta-analysis of readmission rates. Discrepancy identification rates, emergency department attendance and primary care workload were assessed narratively.

Results

Fourteen studies were included, comprising five randomised controlled trials, six cohort studies and three pre–post intervention studies. Twelve studies had a moderate or high risk of bias. Increased identification and resolution of discrepancies was demonstrated in the four studies where this was evaluated. Reduction in clinically relevant discrepancies was reported in two studies. Meta-analysis did not demonstrate a significant reduction in readmission rate. There was no consistent evidence of reduction in emergency department attendance or primary care workload.

Conclusions

Pharmacists can identify and resolve discrepancies when completing medication reconciliation after hospital discharge, but patient outcome or care workload improvements were not consistently seen. Future research should examine the clinical relevance of discrepancies and potential benefits on reducing healthcare team workload.
Moving to the enlightened side: a sheep in wolf’s clothing
Authors: Haynes Andrew
Published: December 2017

Medical leadership is vital for the future of the profession and health service. In this article I share experiences told through my leadership journey to the "Enlightened Side".
Comparison of the efficacy and safety of thrombectomy devices in acute stroke : a network meta-analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Saber Hamidreza , Rajah Gary B , Kherallah Riyad Y , Jadhav Ashutosh P , Narayanan Sandra
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is increasingly used for large-vessel occlusions (LVO), but randomized clinical trial (RCT) level data with regard to differences in clinical outcomes of MT devices are limited. We conducted a network meta-analysis (NMA) that enables comparison of modern MT devices (Trevo, Solitaire, Aspiration) and strategies (stent retriever vs aspiration) across trials.

Methods

Relevant RCTs were identified by a systematic review. The efficacy outcome was 90-day functional independence (modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score 0–2). Safety outcomes were 90-day catastrophic outcome (mRS 5–6) and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH). Fixed-effect Bayesian NMA was performed to calculate risk estimates and the rank probabilities.

Results

In a NMA of six relevant RCTs (SWIFT, TREVO2, EXTEND-IA, SWIFT-PRIME, REVASCAT, THERAPY; total of 871 patients, 472 Solitaire vs medical-only, 108 Aspiration vs medical-only, 178 Trevo vs Merci, and 113 Solitaire vs Merci) with medical-only arm as the reference, Trevo had the greatest functional independence (OR 4.14, 95% credible interval (CrI) 1.41–11.80; top rank probability 92%) followed by Solitaire (OR 2.55, 95% CrI 1.75–3.74; top rank probability 72%). Solitaire and Aspiration devices had the greatest top rank probability with respect to low sICH and catastrophic outcomes (76% and 91%, respectively), but without significant differences between each other. In a separate network of seven RCTs (MR-CLEAN, ESCAPE, EXTEND-IA, SWIFT-PRIME, REVASCAT, THERAPY, ASTER; 1737 patients), first-line stent retriever was associated with a higher top rank probability of functional independence than aspiration (95% vs 54%), with comparable safety outcomes.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that Trevo and Solitaire devices are associated with a greater likelihood of functional independence whereas Solitaire and Aspiration devices appear to be safer.
Pliocene–Pleistocene palaeoclimate reconstruction from Ashalim Cave speleothems, Negev Desert, Israel
Authors: Vaks Anton , Bar-Matthews Miryam , Ayalon Avner , Matthews Alan , Frumkin Amos
Published: December 2017

Speleothems from Ashalim Cave, located in the arid central Negev Desert, Israel, were used in a reconstruction of the palaeoclimate of the northern Saharan–Arabian desert margin. The sequence of speleothems is composed of three stratigraphic members: the yellow Pliocene Basal Member, the brown Early Pleistocene Intermediate Member and the thin Middle–Late Pleistocene Young Member. The age of the Basal Member is
c.
3.1 Ma and the base of the Intermediate Member is 1.272 ± 0.018 Ma. Two last deposition periods of the Young Member occurred at 221–190 ka (Negev Humid Period (NHP) 2) and 134–114 ka (NHP-1), associated with interglacial marine isotopic stages 7.3–7.1 and 5.5, respectively. NHP-1 and -2 occurred when the African monsoon index was highest in the last 221 ka. The δ
18
O values of the speleothems range between −6.9 and −11.2‰, 2–4‰ less than in the speleothems of central and northern Israel. This may indicate a remote southern tropical source of precipitation, although during NHP-1 and -2 the thickness of the Negev Desert speleothems decreases from north to south, showing a stronger northern Mediterranean source of moisture. The δ
13
C values of the speleothems (3.5 to −8.5‰) show steppe to semi-desert C4 type vegetation. The
87
Sr/
86
Sr ratios of the speleothems increased from
c.
0.7078 in the Pliocene to 0.7082–0.7085 in the Pleistocene, indicating an increasing supply of desert dust and a decrease in host rock weathering.