bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fire season modifies the perennial plant community composition through a differential effect on obligate seeders in eastern Mediterranean woodlands
Authors: Tsafrir Anat , Osem Yagil , Shemesh Hagai , Carmel Yohay , Soref Chanoch , Ovadia Ofer
Published: December 2018

Aim

Plant species regenerate after fire either through vegetative growth (i.e., obligate resprouters) or seed germination (i.e., obligate seeders), with some species adopting both strategies (i.e., facultative seeders). Fire season can have important consequences for the relative abundance of plant species adopting these regeneration strategies. The present study aimed to test for differential effects of fire season on perennial plant community composition.

Location

Eastern Mediterranean woodland in the Judea Mountains, Israel.

Methods

We conducted, for the first time, a large‐scale field experiment, involving prescribed spring and autumn burns in a typical eastern Mediterranean woodland. We sampled the perennial plant community before and after the burns, quantifying temporal changes in community composition caused by seasonal fires.

Results

Although fire intensity and severity were consistent between the two seasonal fires, plant community composition differed between areas subjected to spring or autumn burns. The abundances of all common species, Pistacia lenticus (obligate resprouter), Cistus spp. (obligate seeders) and Teucrium divaricatum (facultative seeder), were all reduced by both fires. Yet, their dominance in the post‐fire perennial plant community was retained. Differential fire season effects were detected only among obligate seeders, which experienced a stronger reduction in abundance after spring than after autumn burns.

Conclusions

Differential fire season effects on the perennial plant community resulted from phenological rather than fire intensity/severity effects. Such changes in community composition may have important implications for plant community dynamics, because they affect the circle of “fire event–plant regeneration–fire reoccurrence”, determining the probability and intensity of future fires. Furthermore, even though the eastern mediterranean ecosystem is considered highly resilient to disturbances, increased spatio‐temporal variation in fire season, may result in a new vegetation mosaic, differing from the contemporary one, i.e., an alternative stable state.
Need to address gaps in global fisheries observation
Authors: Roberson Leslie A. , Kiszka Jeremy J. , Watson James E. M.
Published: December 2018

Article impact statement: Urgent gaps in global fisheries monitoring can be addressed with more strategic use of government funds and regional assistance programs.
Between politics and business: Boardroom decision making in state‐owned Indonesian enterprises
Authors: Apriliyanti Indri Dwi , Randøy Trond
Published: December 2018

Research Question/Issue

A significant part of the world's economy is controlled by state‐owned enterprises, and there is a lack of research on how the interplay between politics and business plays out in the boardroom. We address this issue by analyzing boardrooms' decision outcomes as they relate to the role of boardroom power distribution, members' motivation, and decision‐making approach.

Research Findings/Insights

On the basis of information from a sample of 22 state‐owned Indonesian enterprises, we found that a decision outcome in a boardroom is influenced by three factors: the motivation and decision‐making approach of individual board members and the distribution of power in the boardroom. We also found that, in several cases, board members are powerless decision makers, as the decision‐making process in the boardroom is controlled by the government and politicians.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

This study contributes to the understanding of the inner working processes in emerging‐market boardrooms, and we build a theory‐driven typology of boards' decision outcomes.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

This paper highlights the nature of political interactions within the boards of state‐owned enterprises, and we recommend that state‐owned enterprises seek board members who are knowledgeable and rationally motivated, as well as seek a (more) equal power distribution among board members. Politicking and political interference can lower the quality of boards' decisions.
Low‐temperature storage of Exorista larvarum puparia as a tool for assisting parasitoid production
Authors: Benelli Maurizio , Tóth Franciska , Dindo Maria L.
Published: December 2018

Tachinid parasitoids deserve to be better exploited as natural enemies of insect pests. The development of efficient mass‐rearing techniques for these entomophagous insects may encourage their use in biological control programs. Exorista larvarum (L.) (Diptera: Tachinidae) is a Palearctic species, which has been introduced in northern America for the control of the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.). The potential use of this polyphagous parasitoid of Lepidoptera against other forest and agricultural pests encourages research aimed at the improvement of techniques for its rearing, including protocols for storage at low temperature. This technology allows a certain degree of control over the speed of development of the stored insects and assists mass‐rearing facilities that have to match production with demand, especially during field outbreaks of pests. With the aim of developing storage protocols for E. larvarum, we investigated the effects of storage for 1–4 weeks of 1‐day‐old puparia at 15 °C. Lower temperatures (5 and 10 °C) and longer storage periods were excluded following the outcome of preliminary experiments. Parasitoid emergence and quality control parameters of the female flies obtained from the stored puparia were evaluated. In addition, female lipid body reserves were measured. The temperature of 15 °C proved to be suitable for all the durations tested, although some detrimental effects were observed following storage (e.g., lower longevity and fecundity). Our findings may prove useful to increase the flexibility of E. larvarum colony management.
Trust, institutions, and indigenous self‐governance: An exploratory study
Authors: Nikolakis William , Nelson Harry
Published: December 2018

Trust is important to the institutions that make societies successful. Globally, Indigenous peoples are actively building institutions for self‐governance, but there remains little empirical work on trust in this context. To address this gap, we use a mixed methods approach to explore three levels of trust among individual members from three related, but politically distinct First Nations (Indigenous peoples) in British Columbia, Canada. British Columbia offers a unique and dynamic context to explore trust and its relationship with the diverse institutional choices among First Nations. Survey results show that trust is low among respondents and individual variables predictive of trust in mainstream contexts, like education and employment, are not determinative. However, interpersonal trust and political trust were highest in the First Nation most active in institution building, and who linked this with a cultural revitalization narrative. Interviews suggested a bidirectional relationship between individual and collective drivers of trust in this context.
The distributive impact of private pensions in the context of the institutional designs of public pension systems across OECD countries
Authors: Jang Ikhyun
Published: December 2018

Income inequality has been increasing across the developed world for the last few decades. The welfare state has played an important role in reducing income inequality, but it has now entered into an era of transformation. The shift from public to private pension schemes is one of the main policy instruments in this shift. An increase in private pensions is expected to create an increase in income inequality. Therefore, using data from OECD SOCX, this study examined how the effect of private pensions on income inequality might be changed by the institutional design of public pension systems. The results suggest that the effect of private pensions differs when the institutional design of the public pension system is considered. An increase in private pensions is related to an increase in income inequality when the public pension has a low level of coverage and a high level of earnings‐relatedness.
Evolution of the Torso activation cassette, a pathway required for terminal patterning and moulting
Authors: Skelly J. , Pushparajan C. , Duncan E. J. , Dearden P. K.
Published: December 2018

Embryonic terminal patterning and moulting are critical developmental processes in insects. In Drosophila and Tribolium both of these processes are regulated by the Torso‐activation cassette (TAC). The TAC consists of a common receptor, Torso, ligands Trunk and prothoracicotropic hormone (PTTH), and the spatially restricted protein Torso‐like, with combinations of these elements acting mechanistically to activate the receptor in different developmental contexts. In order to trace the evolutionary history of the TAC we determined the presence or absence of TAC components in the genomes of arthropods. Our analyses reveal that Torso, Trunk and PTTH are evolutionarily labile components of the TAC with multiple individual or combined losses occurring in the arthropod lineages leading to and within the insects. These losses are often correlated, with both ligands and receptor missing from the genome of the same species. We determine that the PTTH gene evolved in the common ancestor of Hemiptera and Holometabola, and is missing from the genomes of a number of species with experimentally demonstrated PTTH activity, implying another molecule may be involved in ecdysis in these species. In contrast, the torso‐like gene is a common component of pancrustacean genomes.
Consecutive influenza surveillance of neuraminidase mutations and neuraminidase inhibitor resistance in Japan
Authors: Chong Yong , Matsumoto Shinya , Kang Dongchon , Ikematsu Hideyuki
Published: December 2018

Background

The large consumption of neuraminidase inhibitors (NAIs) for the treatment of influenza virus infections places Japan at risk of becoming the epicenter of the global spread of NAI‐resistant viruses.

Objective

To clarify NA amino acid mutations of epidemic influenza viruses in Japan and their related NAI resistance.

Methods

A total of 1791 samples, including 396 A/H1N1pdm09, 1117 A/H3N2, and 278 B isolates, were collected to determine of their 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) values by NAIs (oseltamivir, zanamivir, peramivir, and laninamivir) during the Japanese seasons from 2011‐2012 to 2016‐2017. Then, 380 samples including 49 A/H1N1pdm09, 251 A/H3N2, and 80 B isolates were sequenced for the entire NA genes.

Results

Neuraminidase inhibitor‐resistant A/H1N1pdm09 viruses were detected at a frequency of 1.3% (5/396 isolates) in the epidemic seasons. None of the A/H3N2 and B viruses developed resistance to any of the four NAIs during the six seasons. Only five and 13 AA mutations were detected in the NA catalytic sites of A/H1N1pdm09 and A/H3N2 viruses, respectively. No mutations were observed in the catalytic sites of B viruses. Four of the five mutations in the catalytic sites of A/H1N1pdm09 consisted of H275Y, which was related to high resistance to oseltamivir and peramivir. Most (10/13) of the catalytic site mutations in A/H3N2 were associated with MDCK‐passaged induction (D151G/N). Finally, no mutations related to substantial NAI resistance were detected in the A/H3N2 and B viruses examined.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the NA catalytic sites of influenza viruses are well preserved. Even in Japan, no spread of NAI‐resistant viruses has been observed, and A/H1N1pdm09 viruses carrying H275Y remain limited.
An integrative review of sibling responses to childhood cancer
Authors: Weiner Jamie A. , Woodley Lisa K.
Published: December 2018

Topic

Siblings of children with cancer experience extraordinary responses and changes to their lives over the course of their family's cancer journey.

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to conduct an integrative literature review to synthesize and analyze relevant findings related to the siblings’ experiences of childhood cancer.

Sources Used

CINAHL, PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO were searched using the key terms: “sibling*” AND “pediatric*” AND “cancer” AND “experienc*” OR “experience*.” Inclusion criteria for this review were research studies focused on sibling responses to having a brother or sister with cancer, published in English between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2017.

Conclusions

Siblings of children with cancer experience many changes to their emotions, relationships, family and home life, school life, and extracurricular activities. They have specific needs and desires including the need for information. Whereas they undergo many changes during the cancer journey, siblings often demonstrate resilience and personal growth and find ways to problem‐solve and cope.
Periprocedural pulmonary aspiration: An analysis of medical malpractice cases and alleged causative factors
Authors: Eltorai Ashley Szabo
Published: December 2018

Rationale Aims and Objectives

Pulmonary aspiration is a feared complication of anaesthesia that is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Within the small existing body of literature on medical malpractice claims related to periprocedural aspiration, very little information is available regarding the case‐specific factors that were alleged to contribute to each aspiration event.

Methods

This study searched an extensive nationwide database of medical malpractice claims and identified 43 relating to periprocedural pulmonary aspiration.

Results

The most common mechanism of causation cited in these claims (37%) was the failure to secure the airway with an endotracheal tube (ETT) when an elevated aspiration risk existed, most commonly because endotracheal intubation was not originally selected as part of the anaesthetic plan. The second most common alleged category of causation (33%) was the failure to perform a proper rapid‐sequence induction and/or place a nasogastric tube (NGT) for decompression prior to induction. An equal amount of cases resulted in defendant versus plaintiff verdicts (44.2% each), while a settlement was reached in the remaining 11.6% of cases.

Conclusion

These findings are generalizable to clinical practice improvement on a broader scale. They demonstrate the need to develop reliable, high‐sensitivity tests for detecting elevated risk before clinicians can be expected to take special steps to protect susceptible patients, and they also show that medical malpractice can be alleged because of failure to uphold currently accepted standards of care even when the published evidence for those standards is weak. This study demonstrates that careful review of medical malpractice litigation can elucidate common contributory factors and facilitate improvements in clinical practice and decision‐making.
Excessive Gestational Weight Gain
Authors: McDowell Megan , Cain Mary Ashley , Brumley Jessica
Published: December 2018

Excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) is associated with an increasing incidence of maternal and neonatal complications, including hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, fetal macrosomia, and increased cesarean birth rates. In the United States, it is recommended that health care providers use an individualized approach to counsel a woman about pregnancy weight gain goals that is based on the woman's initial body mass index (BMI) and to track GWG throughout the pregnancy by evaluating maternal weight at each visit. Studies have shown that women entering pregnancy with a higher BMI are at increased risk for excessive GWG and postpartum weight retention. Research also demonstrates an increased risk of childhood obesity in children born to women with excessive GWG. Specific counseling about exercise and diet, as well as technology and motivational interviewing, are some tools prenatal care providers can use that have been shown to be effective in reducing excessive GWG. This article reviews the current research regarding maternal and neonatal risks associated with excessive GWG, as well as the interventions that have demonstrated promise for addressing this problem.
Contraceptive Use Among Women with Prediabetes and Diabetes in a US National Sample
Authors: Britton Laura E. , Hussey Jon M. , Berry Diane C. , Crandell Jamie L. , Brooks Jada L. , Bryant Amy G.
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Although elevated blood glucose is associated with adverse maternal and fetal health outcomes, evidence suggests that women with diabetes may not be receiving comprehensive reproductive health care, including family planning and preconception care. Using a population‐based sample, we evaluated the relationship between contraceptive use and biomarker‐identified diabetes.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used data from 5548 women in the nationally representative National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health) from 2007 to 2009. Women were aged 24 to 32 years, sexually active with men, and not pregnant. Hemoglobin A1C identified prediabetes and diabetes from blood specimens. The primary outcome was most effective contraception used in the past year: more effective (sterilization, intrauterine device, implant, combined hormonal methods, or injectable), less effective (condoms, diaphragms, spermicides, natural family planning, or withdrawal), or none. Multinomial regression models were adjusted for race and ethnicity, education, insurance, health care access, and body mass index.

Results

Of the women with diabetes, 37.6% used more effective contraception, 33.6% less effective contraception, and 28.8% none. Women with diabetes had higher odds of using no contraception, rather than more effective contraception, than women with normoglycemia (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.90; 95% CI, 1.25‐2.87). Women with diabetes who were undiagnosed had greater odds of using less effective contraception, rather than more effective contraception, compared with those who were diagnosed (aOR 3.39; 95% CI, 1.44‐7.96). Contraceptive use did not differ between women with prediabetes and normoglycemia.

Discussion

Less effective contraceptive methods were commonly used by women with diabetes. Midwives and other women's health care providers can support women with diabetes to reach their pregnancy goals by providing preconception care and family planning.
Tmem30a deficiency leads to retinal rod bipolar cell degeneration
Authors: Yang Yeming , Liu Wenjing , Sun Kuanxiang , Jiang Li , Zhu Xianjun
Published: December 2018

Phospholipids are asymmetrically distributed across the mammalian plasma membrane, with phosphatidylserine (PS) and phosphatidylethanolamine concentrated in the cytoplasmic leaflet of the membrane bilayer and phosphatidylcholine in the exoplasmic leaflet. This asymmetric distribution is dependent on a group of P4 ATPases called PS flippases. The proper transport and function of PS flippases require a β‐subunit transmembrane protein 30A (TMEM30A). Disruption of PS flippases leads to several human diseases. Tmem30a is essential for photoreceptor survival. However, the roles of Tmem30a in the retinal rod bipolar cells (RBC) remain elusive. To investigate the role of Tmem30a in the RBCs, we generated a RBC‐specific Tmem30a knockout (cKO) mouse model using PCP2‐Cre line. The Tmem30a cKO mice exhibited defect in RBC function and progressive RBC death. PKCα staining of retinal cryosections from cKO mice revealed a remarkable dendritic sprouting of rod bipolar cells during the early degenerative process. Immunostaining analysis of PSD95 and mGluT6 expression demonstrated that rod bipolar cells in Tmem30a cKO retinas exhibited aberrant dendritic sprouting as a result of impaired synaptic efficacy, which implied a crucial role for Tmem30a in synaptic transmission in the retina. In addition, loss of Tmem30a led to reactive gliosis with increased expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein and CD68. TUNEL staining suggested that apoptotic cell death occurred in the retinal inner nuclear layer (INL). Our data show that loss of Tmem30a in RBCs results in dendritic sprouting of rod bipolar cells, increased astrogliosis and RBC death. Taken together, our studies demonstrate an essential role for Tmem30a in the retinal bipolar cells.

image

Cover Image for this issue: doi: 10.1111/jnc.14492.
Pipelle biopsy and dilatation and curettage in clinical practice: are factors affecting their effectiveness the same?
Authors: Piatek Szymon , Warzecha Damian , Kisielewski Filip , Szymusik Iwona , Panek Grzegorz , Wielgos Miroslaw
Published: December 2018

Aim

Endometrial biopsy is one of the most commonly performed gynecological procedures. Apart from patient safety, the most important is to obtain an adequate specimen allowing histopathological diagnosis. The aim of the study was to determine the rate of endometrial sampling failure and factors affecting the quality of specimen obtained for histopathological examination among patients who underwent Pipelle biopsy and dilatation and curettage (D&C).

Methods

Patients who underwent endometrial biopsy (Pipelle, D&C) at the 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw, between June 2013 and July 2017, were included in the study. The influence of menopausal status, body mass index, obstetric history, endometrial thickness, indications for the biopsy and doctors' experience were analyzed with regard to the effectiveness of the procedure.

Results

Overall, 895 endometrial sampling procedures were performed. Three hundred and thirty‐nine (37.9%) patients underwent Pipelle biopsy, while 556 (62.1%) had D&C. Insufficient samples were found in 60 (17.3%) and 88 (15.8%) patients, respectively. Age, menopausal status and indications were factors affecting both procedures, while the number of previous vaginal deliveries, body mass index and endometrial thickness influenced the effectiveness of Pipelle biopsy. Doctors' experience did not influence the specimen adequacy.

Conclusion

None of the methods guarantee obtaining adequate specimens. D&C might be preferred in postmenopausal women. The effectiveness of both procedures is independent of doctors' experience.
Association of circulating microRNA‐122 and microRNA‐29a with stage of fibrosis and progression of chronic hepatitis in Labrador Retrievers
Authors: Sakai Manabu , Spee Bart , Grinwis Guy C. M. , Penning Louis C. , van Wolferen Monique E. , van der Laan Luc J. W. , Fieten Hille
Published: December 2018

Background

Chronic hepatitis (CH) in dogs is common and has the tendency to progress to liver cirrhosis (LC). Circulating microRNAs might have the potential as markers for disease progression.

Objectives

To investigate whether concentration of specific microRNAs in serum correlate with the stage and grade of CH in Labrador Retrievers.

Animals

Twenty‐two Labrador Retrievers with histological CH (n = 8), LC (n = 7), and normal liver (NL, n = 7).

Methods

In this retrospective study, serum concentrations of miR‐122, miR‐29a, miR‐133a, miR‐181b, and miR‐17‐5p were measured by quantitative real‐time PCR and evaluated using univariate linear regression in dogs. A multivariate model was fit including the grade of hepatitis and the stage of fibrosis.

Results

Of the 5 microRNAs, only circulating miR‐122 and miR‐29a were significantly associated with the grade of hepatitis and the stage of fibrosis. A positive correlation was identified between the grade of hepatitis with miR‐122 (rs = 0.79, P < .001) and miR‐29a (rs = 0.78, P < .001). Both miR‐122 (rs = 0.81, P < .001) and miR‐29a (rs = 0.67, P < .001) showed a significant positive correlation with the stage of fibrosis. MiR‐122 concentrations were significantly higher in the CH (P < .01) and LC groups (P < .001) compared to the NL group. MiR‐29a concentrations were significantly higher in the CH (P < .001) and LC (P < .001) groups compared to the NL group.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Circulating miR‐122 and miR‐29a concentrations might be useful for monitoring the response to treatment and progression of canine CH.
Grammar Policy and Pedagogy from Primary to Secondary School
Authors: Cushing Ian
Published: December 2018

Grammar is a key focus of current UK national curriculum policy, at both primary and secondary school level. But grammar policy across these levels is incongruous: at primary level, policy is largely prescriptive, framing language as a system of constraints and rules, whereas at secondary level, policy is much more geared towards descriptive, functional linguistics. Using data acquired from a survey with 275 secondary English teachers and interviews with 24 secondary English teachers, I critically explore how the incongruity of primary–secondary level grammar policy is impacting upon grammar pedagogy at secondary level. Using a combination of thematic and metaphor analysis, I show how many teachers report secondary students conceptualising grammar as a list of technical terms, with little idea or experience of how to use this knowledge in applications such as critical reading or creative writing. I also show how some secondary teachers were aiming to integrate grammar into their teaching, looking to build and develop on the grammatical knowledge students have from primary level. The data show that teacher and student conceptualisations of grammar are shaped by curriculum policy, and I call for a more coherent and coordinated vision of grammar across primary and secondary level.
Malvinas (Falkland) Plateau structure versus Mjølnir crater: Geophysical workflow template for proposed marine impact craters
Authors: Tsikalas F. , Eldholm O.
Published: December 2018

A diagnostic geophysical‐based template, supported by modelling, is suggested to be used prior to, or in combination with geological/drilling data, when proposing a marine impact crater. The latter refers to impacts occurring in a marine setting and resulting in structures that are currently partially or totally underwater. The methodology is based on the well‐documented Mjølnir crater in the Barents Sea. The template has been developed in conjunction with the recently proposed and debated impact crater on the Malvinas (Falkland) Plateau in the South Atlantic. Despite their different sizes, their comparison adds to the ambiguous nature of the Malvinas structure and shows that the integrated analysis of seismic and potential field data and modelling is crucial for any interpretation of a marine impact crater without relevant geological information. The proposed workflow template utilizes all available geophysical data and is composed of a series of iterative steps, including a range of alternative nonimpact interpretations that must be discussed and accounted for. Subsequently, further iterative geophysical modelling is required to support and decipher the impact related processes. A more complex impact crater model and additional impact crater features can be resolved by physical property modelling. In all cases, a close spatial correspondence of the defined impact structure with potential field anomalies is a necessity to establish a causal relationship. We suggest that the diagnostic workflow template provides a methodology to be applied to future studies of the Malvinas structure, as well as to proposed marine (and, with minor adaptions, to nonmarine) impact craters in general.
Novel microRNAs are associated with population divergence in transcriptional response to thermal stress in an intertidal copepod
Authors: Graham Allie M. , Barreto Felipe S.
Published: December 2018

The role of gene expression in adaptation to differing thermal environments has been assayed extensively. Yet, in most natural systems, analyses of gene expression reveal only one level of the complexity of regulatory machineries. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs which are key components of many gene regulatory networks, and they play important roles in a variety of cellular pathways by modulating post‐transcriptional quantities of mRNA available for protein synthesis. The characterization of miRNA loci and their regulatory dynamics in nonmodel systems are still largely understudied. In this study, we examine the role of miRNAs in response to high thermal stress in the intertidal copepod Tigriopus californicus. Allopatric populations of this species show varying levels of local adaptation with respect to thermal regimes, and previous studies showed divergence in gene expression between populations from very different thermal environments. We examined the transcriptional response to temperature stress in two populations separated by only 8 km by utilizing RNA‐seq to quantify both mRNA and miRNA levels. Using the currently available genome sequence, we first describe the repertoire of miRNAs in T. californicus and assess the degree to which transcriptional response to temperature stress is governed by miRNA activity. The two populations showed large differences in the number of genes involved, the magnitude of change in commonly used genes and in the number of miRNAs involved in transcriptional modulation during stress. Our results suggest that an increased level of regulatory network complexity may underlie improved survivorship under thermal stress in one of the populations.
Methods to label, image, and analyze the complex structural architectures of microvascular networks
Authors: Corliss Bruce A. , Mathews Corbin , Doty Richard , Rohde Gustavo , Peirce Shayn M.
Published: December 2018

Microvascular networks play key roles in oxygen transport and nutrient delivery to meet the varied and dynamic metabolic needs of different tissues throughout the body, and their spatial architectures of interconnected blood vessel segments are highly complex. Moreover, functional adaptations of the microcirculation enabled by structural adaptations in microvascular network architecture are required for development, wound healing, and often invoked in disease conditions, including the top eight causes of death in the Unites States. Effective characterization of microvascular network architectures is not only limited by the available techniques to visualize microvessels but also reliant on the available quantitative metrics that accurately delineate between spatial patterns in altered networks. In this review, we survey models used for studying the microvasculature, methods to label and image microvessels, and the metrics and software packages used to quantify microvascular networks. These programs have provided researchers with invaluable tools, yet we estimate that they have collectively attained low adoption rates, possibly due to limitations with basic validation, segmentation performance, and nonstandard sets of quantification metrics. To address these existing constraints, we discuss opportunities to improve effectiveness, rigor, and reproducibility of microvascular network quantification to better serve the current and future needs of microvascular research.
Who Is Being Served At Tables? The Permanent Diaconate Today
Authors: Beck Ashley
Published: December 2018

Since Vatican II the restored Permanent Diaconate in the Latin Church has played an increasingly important role in the life of the Catholic Church, particularly in Western Europe and North America. Is there a theology of the diaconate, and if so what are the contentious issues? How far is the diaconate really distinct from the priesthood and the ministry of laypeople? A way forward is to revive the subversive character of διακονία, both in practical pastoral ministry and in serious engagement with Catholic Social Teaching; this necessitates major changes to diaconate formation programmes. A clearly defined diaconate would be able to help the Church renew and reform its understanding of ministry.
Can Canon Law be Described as ‘Ministry’?
Authors: Costigane Helen
Published: December 2018

When it is misapplied, canon law can cause great unjustified unhappiness, but this paper argues that the content is basically, the practice of which is an authentic form of the church's ministry that is necessary for the structure and life of the church.
Pneumatic dilation improves esophageal emptying and symptoms in patients with idiopathic esophago‐gastric junction outflow obstruction
Authors: Clayton Steven B. , Shin Claire M. , Ewing Alex , Blonski Wojciech , Richter Joel
Published: December 2018

Background and aims

Idiopathic Esophago‐gastric outflow obstruction (EGJOO) is a new clinical entity resulting in delayed esophageal emptying secondary to a poorly relaxing lower esophageal sphincter. Little is known about treatment outcomes of idiopathic EGJOO patients.

The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical response of pneumatic dilation (PD) in idiopathic EGJOO patients with a standing barium column and/or with pill arrest on timed barium esophagram (TBE) before and after undergoing PD.

Methods

Idiopathic EGJOO patients with retained liquid barium on TBE at 1 minute and/or with pill arrest in esophagus at 5 minutes were included. Patients were treated with PD and evaluated with post‐procedural TBE.

Results

A total of 33 patients with Idiopathic EGJOO and poor esophageal emptying on TBE were treated with PD. 67% of Idiopathic EGJOO patients reported subjective symptom relief, 18% improved and symptoms later recurred, 6% were lost to follow up, and 9% reported no change. TBE results of pre‐PD showed 1 minute average barium column height of 11.0 cm and 1 minute barium column width of 1.7 cm. There was significant decrease in 1 minute liquid barium column height and width (P < 0.001 and <0.001, respectively) as well as significant improvement in pill passing (P < 0.006) after undergoing PD. No complications occurred after PD.

Conclusion

PD is an effective initial treatment for Idiopathic EGJOO patients with abnormal TBE. Pneumatic dilation relieved symptoms and improved esophageal emptying in Idiopathic EGJOO patients on TBE
MdbHLH93, an apple activator regulating leaf senescence, is regulated by ABA and MdBT2 in antagonistic ways
Authors: An Jian‐Ping , Zhang Xiao‐Wei , Bi Si‐Qi , You Chun‐Xiang , Wang Xiao‐Fei , Hao Yu‐Jin
Published: December 2018

The molecular mechanism of leaf senescence in apple (Malus domestica) is still not fully understood. We used gene expression analysis and protein–protein interactions to decipher the relationships of abscisic acid (ABA) and two proteins, MdbHLH93 and MdBT2, in the senescence process.

We found that MdbHLH93 promoted leaf senescence and the expression of senescence‐related genes, which exhibited similar effects to ABA on leaf senescence. MdbHLH93 activated directly the transcription of MdSAG18.

We also found that an ABA‐responsive protein, MdBT2, interacted directly with MdbHLH93, and induced the ubiquitination and degradation of the MdbHLH93 protein, and thus delayed leaf senescence.

Our findings provide new insights into the regulatory network of leaf senescence through the functional interactions among ABA, MdbHLH93 and MdBT2.
Managerial challenges of outbound open innovation: a study of a spinout initiative in AstraZeneca
Authors: Remneland Wikhamn Björn , Styhre Alexander
Published: December 2018

While the research on open innovation is flourishing, less attention has so far been given to ‘outbound’ processes in comparison to ‘inbound’ and ‘coupled’ open innovation. In this paper we analyze a qualitative case study of the global bio‐pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca and their attempt to establish a spinout initiative where internal projects are transferred to entrepreneurial startups funded by external venture capital. We explain the enactment work of this initiative and identify three emerged managerial challenges, linked to (1) internal decision‐making, (2) the cultural and psychological barriers of what we phrase as the ‘not‐invented‐elsewhere’ (NIE) syndrome, and (3) the ability to translate and communicate internal projects as attractive external proposals. Theoretical and managerial implications in relation to these challenges are outlined and discussed.
Impaired vascular function in exercising anovulatory premenopausal women is associated with low bone mineral density
Authors: O’Donnell Emma , Scheid Jennifer L. , West Sarah L. , De Souza Mary Jane
Published: December 2018

In estrogen‐deficient post‐menopausal women, osteoporosis shares a common link with cardiovascular disease risk, including endothelial dysfunction. The current study sought to examine associations between bone mineral density (BMD) and endothelial function in estrogen‐deficient premenopausal women with exercise‐associated menstrual disturbances. Recreationally trained women (24.3 ± 0.8 years; overall mean ± SEM) who were estrogen deficient (amenorrheic or eumenorrheic anovulatory cycles; E2Def; n = 13) or estrogen replete (eumenorrheic ovulatory cycles; E2Rep; n = 14) were studied. Total body and lumbar BMD (L1‐L4) were determined using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Serum markers of oxidative stress (oxidized low‐density lipoprotein; OxLDL), energy deficiency (triiodothyronine), and bone turnover (osteocalcin, c‐telopeptide X, P1NP) were assessed. Estrogen exposure was determined by assessing daily urinary estrone‐3‐glucuronide (E1G) across a monitoring period. Calf blood flow (CBF), an index of endothelial function, was measured using strain‐gauge plethysmography. CBF, total body and L1‐L4 BMD, triiodothyronine and E1G were lower (P < 0.05), and c‐telopeptide crosslinks higher (P < 0.05) in E2Def. Osteocalcin and OxLDL did not differ (P > 0.05) between groups. L1‐L4 BMD, osteocalcin, and E1G were the strongest predictors of CBF (R2=0.615, P < 0.001). CBF was the strongest predictor of L1‐L4 BMD (R2=0.478, P < 0.001). L1‐L4 (r = 0.558, P = 0.008) and CBF (r = 0.534, P = 0.004) were independently correlated with E1G. In young recreationally trained premenopausal women with anovulatory menstrual disturbances, low CBF predicts decreased lumbar BMD, suggesting impaired peripheral endothelial function may predict early unfavorable changes in bone metabolism. This finding may be of relevance in the early detection of cardiovascular and bone health decrements in otherwise healthy estrogen‐deficient premenopausal women.
Envisioning a feminist urban ethnography: Structure, culture, and new directions in poverty studies
Authors: Ray Ranita , Tillman Korey
Published: December 2018

A “risk” discourse, characterized by the focus on behaviors of the economically marginalized especially as it relates to drugs, gangs, violence, and teen parenthood, has traditionally dominated poverty research in the United States. More recently, this hegemonic risk discourse has become contoured by the so‐called new cultural turn in urban poverty studies, which has been marked as a departure from the earlier “blame the victim” perspectives. In this article, we review the role of urban ethnographers in shaping the structure versus culture debate in the sociology of poverty sub‐discipline. We then point to a scant, but growing, body of work that is encouraging urban ethnographers engaged in poverty research to expand their vision. To conclude, we contend that this new direction can be conceptualized as a feminist urban ethnography frame that advocates for transformation of the poverty research agenda.
Motivation and self‐regulation: The role of want‐to motivation in the processes underlying self‐regulation and self‐control
Authors: Werner Kaitlyn M. , Milyavskaya Marina
Published: December 2018

Research on self‐regulation has largely focused on the idea of effortful self‐control, which assumes that exerting willpower will lead to greater success. However, in recent years, research has challenged this perspective and instead proposes that effortless self‐regulation is more adaptive for long‐term goal pursuit. Taking into consideration the burgeoning literature on effortless self‐regulation, here we propose that motivation—or the reasons why we pursue our goals—plays an integral role in this process. The objective of the present paper is to highlight how motivation can play a role in how self‐regulation unfolds. Specifically, we propose that pursuing goals because you want‐to (vs. have‐to) is associated with better goal attainment as a function of experiencing less temptations and obstacles. While the reason why want‐to motivation relates to experiencing fewer obstacles has yet to be thoroughly explored, here we propose some potential mechanisms drawing from recent research on self‐regulation. We also provide recommendations for future research, highlighting the importance of considering motivation in the study of self‐regulatory processes.
Varicella zoster virus encephalitis in solid organ transplant recipients: Case series and review of literature
Authors: Kang Minji , Aslam Saima
Published: December 2018

Herpes zoster encephalitis (HZE) is a rare complication of varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection. We report two cases of HZE in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients and review 10 other cases in the literature. In this review, rash was present in 67% of cases. Despite the absence of a rash, high clinical suspicion for HZE is necessary and empiric antiviral therapy should be considered. While with variable outcome, it was associated with high mortality rate of 42%. Prompt initiation of antiviral therapy remains crucial in decreasing morbidity and mortality from this fatal disease.
Susceptible and protective HLA‐DR and HLA‐DQ alleles for Fya alloimmunization in the Croatian population
Authors: Raos Mirela , Zunec Renata , Mocibob Marko , Gojceta Koraljka , Lukic Marija , Golubic Cepulic Branka
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

Alloimmunization is a known risk of transfusion therapy caused by exposure to foreign RBC antigens. However, alloimmunization is not observed in all transfused patients. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules may contribute to the recognition and presentation of foreign antigens and to the potency of immune responses that result in the production of antibodies. The aim of this study was to determine the association of HLA‐DR and HLA‐DQ polymorphisms with alloimunization to Fya antigen in Croatian patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The study was conducted on 70 alloimmunized patients to Fya antigen and two control groups: 165 healthy Croatian individuals (Control 1) and 45 Fya antigen‐negative nonimmunized patients exposed to Fya antigen (Control 2). Phenotype frequencies for HLA‐DRB1 and HLA‐DQB1 alleles were compared between the cases and control groups.

RESULTS

Statistically significant differences in phenotype frequencies between cases and controls were found for DRB1*04 (odds ratios [ORs], 10.5 and 18.7 for Control 1 and Control 2, respectively), DRB1*15 (ORs, 8.0 and 6.9), and DQB1*02 alleles (ORs, 0.2 and 0.03); and DRB1*04‐DQB1*03:01 (ORs, 7.9 and 17.6), DRB1*04‐DQB1*03:02 (ORs, 5.5 and 7.6), DRB1*15‐DQB1*06:02 (ORs, 7.3 and 5.5), DRB1*03‐DQB1*02:01 (OR, 0.1), and DRB1*07‐DQB1*02:02 (OR, 0.3) haplotypes.

CONCLUSION

Several HLA‐DRB1 and HLA‐DQB1 alleles and haplotypes were proved to contribute to and protect from alloimmunization to Fya antigens. Alleles DRB1*04 and DRB1*15, as well as haplotypes DRB1*04‐DQB1*03:02 and DRB1*15‐DQB1*06:02 can be considered as risk factors, while allele DQB1*02 and haplotype DRB1*03‐DQB1*02:01 have a protective role in Fya alloimmunization.
An Investigation of the Relationships Between Attachment Levels to School and the Variables of the Perception of School Life Quality and Peer Pressure Among High School Students
Authors: Toraman Cetin , Aycicek Burak
Published: December 2018

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationships between attachment levels to school and the variables of the perception of school life quality and peer pressure among high school students and whether school life quality and peer pressure predict students’ attachment levels to school significantly. The relational screening model was used in the research. The sample group for the research comprised a total sum of 1533 high school students from 12 different high schools in six counties in Hatay province in Turkey. Sample of the study was selected using purposive and easily accessible sampling. “School Attachment Scale Among Children and Adolescents (High School Form) (SASACA)”, “The Quality of Life in High Schools Scale (QLHSS)” and “Peer Pressure Scale (PPS)” were used as tools of data collection. A Pearson Correlation analysis was performed to determine whether there was a significant relationship between the scores of the scales used in the study. Considering the findings of the study it was found out that there was a significant and positive relationship between the levels of students' attachment to school and school life quality. In addition, a high level, negative and significant relationship was found between the level of students' attachment to school and peer pressure. Peer pressure and school life quality are significant explanations of the level of attachment to school.
Crk adaptor proteins mediate actin-dependent T cell migration and mechanosensing induced by the integrin LFA-1
Authors: Roy Nathan H. , MacKay Joanna L. , Robertson Tanner F. , Hammer Daniel A. , Burkhardt Janis K.
Published: December 2018

Crk adaptor proteins mediate integrin signaling–induced T cell migration.
Endonuclease Activity Inhibition of the NS1 Protein of Parvovirus B19 as a Novel Target for Antiviral Drug Development
Authors: Xu Peng , Ganaie Safder S. , Wang Xiaomei , Wang Zekun , Kleiboeker Steve , Horton Nancy C. , Heier Richard F. , Meyers Marvin J. , Tavis John E. , Qiu Jianming
Published: December 2018

Human parvovirus B19 (B19V), a member of the genus
Erythroparvovirus
of the family
Parvoviridae
, is a small nonenveloped virus that has a single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) genome of 5.6 kb with two inverted terminal repeats (ITRs). B19V infection often results in severe hematological disorders and fetal death in humans.
Impact of Rapid Molecular Diagnostic Testing of Respiratory Viruses on Outcomes of Adults Hospitalized with Respiratory Illness: a Multicenter Quasi-experimental Study
Authors: Wabe Nasir , Li Ling , Lindeman Robert , Yimsung Ruth , Dahm Maria R. , McLennan Susan , Clezy Kate , Westbrook Johanna I. , Georgiou Andrew
Published: December 2018

A standard multiplex PCR offers comprehensive testing for respiratory viruses. However, it has traditionally been performed in a referral laboratory with a lengthy turnaround time, which can reduce patient flow through the hospital.
Involvement of a Nonstructural Protein in Poliovirus Capsid Assembly
Authors: Adeyemi Oluwapelumi O. , Sherry Lee , Ward Joseph C. , Pierce Danielle M. , Herod Morgan R. , Rowlands David J. , Stonehouse Nicola J.
Published: December 2018

RNA viruses, including poliovirus, evolve rapidly due to the error-prone nature of the polymerase enzymes involved in genome replication. Fixation of advantageous mutations may require the acquisition of complementary mutations which can act in concert to achieve a favorable phenotype. This study highlights a compensatory role of a nonstructural regulatory protein, 2A
pro
, for an otherwise lethal mutation of the structural VP1 protein to facilitate increased thermal resistance. Studying how viruses respond to selection pressures is important for understanding mechanisms which underpin emergence of resistance and could be applied to the future development of antiviral agents and vaccines.