bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Programmed death-1+ T cells inhibit effector T cells at the pathological site of miliary tuberculosis
Authors: Singh A , Mohan A , Dey A B , Mitra D K
Published: September 2016

Optimal T cell activation is vital for the successful resolution of microbial infections. Programmed death-1 (PD-1) is a key immune check-point receptor expressed by activated T cells. Aberrant/excessive inhibition mediated by PD-1 may impair host immunity to Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, leading to disseminated disease such as miliary tuberculosis (MTB). PD-1 mediated inhibition of T cells in pulmonary tuberculosis and TB pleurisy is reported. However, their role in MTB, particularly at the pathological site, remains to be addressed. The objective of this study was to investigate the role of PD-1–PD-ligand 1 (PD-L1) in T cell responses at the pathological site from patients of TB pleurisy and MTB as clinical models of contained and disseminated forms of tuberculosis, respectively. We examined the expression and function of PD-1 and its ligands (PD-L1–PD-L2) on host immune cells among tuberculosis patients. Bronchoalveolar lavage-derived CD3 T cells in MTB expressed PD-1 (54·2 ± 27·4%, P ≥ 0·0009) with significantly higher PD-1 ligand-positive T cells (PD-L1: 19·8 ± 11·8%; P ≥ 0·019, PD-L2: 12·6 ± 6·2%; P ≥ 0·023), CD19+ B cells (PD-L1: 14·4 ± 10·4%; P ≥ 0·042, PD-L2: 2·6 ± 1·43%; not significant) and CD14+ monocytes (PD-L1: 40·2 ± 20·1%; P ≥ 0·047, PD-L2: 22·4 ± 15·6%; P ≥ 0·032) compared with peripheral blood (PB) of MTB and healthy controls. The expression of PD-1 was associated with a diminished number of cells producing effector cytokines interferon (IFN)-γ, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)−2 and elevated apoptosis. Locally accumulated T cells were predominantly PD-1+–PD-L1+, and blocking this pathway restores the protective T cell response. We conclude that M. tuberculosis exploits the PD-1 pathway to evade the host immune response by altering the T helper type 1 (Th1) and Th2 balance at the pathological site of MTB, thereby favouring disease dissemination.
Anti-inflammatory effects of infliximab in mice are independent of tumour necrosis factor α neutralization
Authors: Assas B M , Levison S E , Little M , England H , Battrick L , Bagnall J , McLaughlin J T , Paszek P , Else K J , Pennock J L
Published: September 2016

Infliximab (IFX) has been used repeatedly in mouse preclinical models with associated claims that anti-inflammatory effects are due to inhibition of mouse tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α. However, the mechanism of action in mice remains unclear. In this study, the binding specificity of IFX for mouse TNF-α was investigated ex vivo using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), flow cytometry and Western blot. Infliximab (IFX) did not bind directly to soluble or membrane-bound mouse TNF-α nor did it have any effect on TNF-α-induced nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) stimulation in mouse fibroblasts. The efficacy of IFX treatment was then investigated in vivo using a TNF-α-independent Trichuris muris-induced infection model of chronic colitis. Infection provoked severe transmural colonic inflammation by day 35 post-infection. Colonic pathology, macrophage phenotype and cell death were determined. As predicted from the in-vitro data, in-vivo treatment of T. muris-infected mice with IFX had no effect on clinical outcome, nor did it affect macrophage cell phenotype or number. IFX enhanced apoptosis of colonic immune cells significantly, likely to be driven by a direct effect of the humanized antibody itself. We have demonstrated that although IFX does not bind directly to TNF-α, observed anti-inflammatory effects in other mouse models may be through host cell apoptosis. We suggest that more careful consideration of xenogeneic responses should be made when utilizing IFX in preclinical models.
Atmospheric temperature and pressure influence the onset of spontaneous pneumothorax
Authors: Motono Nozomu , Maeda Sumiko , Honda Ryumon , Tanaka Makoto , Machida Yuichiro , Usuda Katsuo , Sagawa Motoyasu , Uramoto Hidetaka
Published: September 2016

Background

The aim of the study was to examine the influence of the changes in the atmospheric temperature (ATemp) and the atmospheric pressure (APres) on the occurrence of a spontaneous pneumothorax (SP).

Patients and methods

From January 2000 to March 2014, 192 consecutive SP events were examined. The ATemp and APres data at the onset of SP, as well as those data at 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, and 72 h prior to the onset time, were analyzed.

Results

The frequencies of SP occurrence were not statistically different according to the months or seasons, but were statistically different according to the time period (P < .01) and SP events occurred most frequently from 12:00 to 18:00. SP events frequently occurred at an ATemp of 25 degrees Celsius or higher. There was a significantly negative correlation between the APres and the ATemp at the SP onset time. The values of change in the APres from 36 to 24 h prior to SP onset were significantly lower than the preceding values.

Conclusions

In this study, we observed that a SP event was likely to occur in the time period from 12:00 to 18:00, at an ATemp of 25 degrees Celsius or higher, and at 24–36 h after a drop of APres.
Biogeography of boreal passerine range dynamics in western North America: past, present, and future
Authors: Stralberg Diana , Matsuoka Steven M. , Handel Colleen M. , Schmiegelow Fiona K. A. , Hamann Andreas , Bayne Erin M.
Published: September 2016

Many of the Neotropical migrant bird species that breed throughout the Canadian boreal region are not found in the Alaskan boreal region, separated by the northwestern cordilleran mountains, despite the presence of climatically suitable habitat. We asked whether biological or climatic factors constrain certain species from crossing this geographic barrier. Analyzing a comprehensive dataset for 80 boreal passerine species, we used phylogenetic logistic regression to evaluate the relative importance of physical, migratory and competition metrics versus current and paleoclimatic suitability factors. Controlling for current climatic suitability within boreal Alaska, we found that species with the greatest climatic suitability across the northwestern cordillera, presently and also during the mid‐Holocene period, were most likely to be regular breeders in the Alaskan boreal region. Migratory strategy also played a role, but could not be disentangled from its strong phylogenetic basis. Our analysis suggests that the perceived barrier of the northwestern cordillera may be easily weakened as climate change improves conditions there for many forest species. The weakening of this barrier may lead to relatively rapid range expansions and the reshuffling of species communities. Species’ realized distributional shifts will be a function of the interplay between a changing climate and static topographic features.
Using gamification to develop academic writing skills in dental undergraduate students
Authors: El Tantawi Maha , Sadaf Shazia , AlHumaid Jehan
Published: September 2016

Objectives

To assess the satisfaction of first‐year dental students with gamification and its effect on perceived and actual improvement of academic writing.

Methods

Two first‐year classes of dental undergraduate students were recruited for the study which extended over 4 months and ended in January 2015. A pre‐intervention assessment of students’ academic writing skills was performed using criteria to evaluate writing. The same criteria were used to evaluate the final writing assignment after the intervention. Students’ satisfaction with game aspects was assessed. The per cent change in writing score was regressed on scores of satisfaction with game aspects controlling for gender. Perceived improvement in writing was also assessed.

Results

Data from 87 (94.6%) students were available for analysis. Students’ overall satisfaction with the gamified experience was modest [mean (SD) = 5.9 (2.1)] and so was their overall perception of improvement in writing [mean (SD) = 6.0 (2.2)]. The per cent score of the first assignment was 35.6 which improved to 80 in the last assignment. Satisfaction with playing the game was significantly associated with higher percentage of improvement in actual writing skills [regression coefficient (95% confidence interval) = 21.1 (1.9, 40.2)].

Conclusion

Using gamification in an obligatory course for first‐year dental students was associated with an improvement in academic writing skills although students’ satisfaction with game aspects was modest and their willingness to use gamification in future courses was minimal.
Hyperdiploidy as a rare event that accompanies poor prognosis markers in CLL
Authors: González‐Gascón y Marín Isabel , Martín Ana África , Hernández‐Sanchez María , Robledo Cristina , Hermosín María Lourdes , de las Heras Natalia , Lacalle Laura , Galende Josefina , de Arriba Felipe , Rodríguez‐Vicente Ana Eugenia , Hernández José‐Ángel , Hernández‐Rivas Jesús María
Published: September 2016

The presence of chromosomal gains other than trisomy 12 in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is unusual. However, some patients may show gains on several chromosomes simultaneously suggesting a hyperdiploid karyotype.

Objective

The objective of this study was to analyse by FISH the frequency and prognostic impact of hyperdiploidy in CLL.

Method

A review of 1359 consecutive cases diagnosed with CLL referred for FISH analysis to a unique institution was carried out. Hyperdiploidy was considered when a gain of at least three of the five FISH probes used was observed.

Results

Seven cases (0.51%) with hyperdiploidy were found, confirming that it is a rare event in this disease. Although most patients presented with early Binet stages at diagnosis, six of seven (86%) shortly progressed. The median of time to the first therapy (TTFT) and overall survival (OS) for the patients with hyperdiploidy were short (1.4 months and 20 months, respectively). Moreover, comparing them with a control group of patients (non‐hyperdiploid) with completed follow‐up data, TTFT and OS of the patients with hyperdiploidy were significantly shorter than the control group.

Conclusion

The presence of hyperdiploidy is uncommon and probably associated with poor prognostic markers in CLL.
Transient and persistent behavioral and molecular changes in primiparous female Wistar rats
Authors: Naik Roshan R. , de Jong Trynke R.
Published: September 2016

Motherhood brings about a multitude of behavioral and physiological changes in dams and some of these persist until after weaning. We studied behavioral changes associated with reproductive experience at lactating day (LD)8, at weaning (LD21), and 28 days post‐weaning (PW28) compared to nulliparous (NP) females. Furthermore, in another cohort of animals, we quantified mRNA expression of five target genes known to be associated with maternal experience: arginin‐vasopressin(Avp) and its 1A receptor(Avpr1a), oxytocin(Oxt) and its receptor(Oxtr), and corticotropin‐releasing hormone(Crh) in three key maternal region: the medial preoptic area (MPOA), bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) and paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus(PVN). Although dams were slightly less anxious than NP at LD8, this effect did not persist at LD21 and PW28. No differences in social preference were found between the four groups. In the maternal responsiveness test (MRT), LD8 and LD21 dams were immediately responsive to pups whereas NP largely avoided the pups throughout 12‐day period. PW28 females were significantly more responsive to pups than NP females, but less than LD8 and LD21 females. The mRNA expression of Avp in the PVN, Avpr1a in the BNST and Oxtr in the MPOA and BNST was increased, whereas mRNA expression of Avpr1a was reduced in the PVN, at LD8 compared to NP. Although Oxtr in the BNST and Avp in the PVN were still somewhat (non‐significantly) increased at LD21, all levels of gene expression had normalized at PW28. Our results emphasize the transient nature of these behavioral and molecular adaptations, except for a persistent up‐regulation of maternal responsiveness.
Intralaminar and tectal projections to the subthalamus in the rat
Authors: Kita Takako , Shigematsu Naoki , Kita Hitoshi
Published: September 2016

Projections from the posterior intralaminar thalamic nuclei and the superior colliculus (SC) to the subthalamic nucleus (STN) and the zona incerta (ZI) have been described in the primate and rodent. The aims of this study was to investigate several questions on these projections, using modern neurotracing techniques in rats, to advance our understanding of the role of STN and ZI. We examined whether projection patterns to the subthlamus can be used to identify homologues of the primate centromedian (CM) and the parafascicular nucleus (Pf) in the rodent, the topography of the projection including what percent of intralaminar neurons participate in the projections, and electron microscopic examination of intralaminar synaptic boutons in STN. The aim on the SC‐subthalamic projection was to examine whether STN is the main target of the projection. This study revealed: (i) the areas similar to primate CM and Pf could be recognized in the rat; (ii) the Pf‐like area sends a very heavy topographically organized projection to STN but very sparse projection to ZI, which suggested that Pf might control basal ganglia function through STN; (iii) the projection from the CM‐like area to the subthalamus was very sparse; (iv) Pf boutons and randomly sampled asymmetrical synapses had similar distributions on the dendrites of STN neurons; and (v) the lateral part of the deep layers of SC sends a very heavy projection to ZI and moderate to sparse projection to limited parts of STN, suggesting that SC is involved in a limited control of basal ganglia function.
Fixed 50:50 mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen to reduce lumbar‐puncture‐induced pain: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Moisset X. , Sia M. A. , Pereira B. , Taithe F. , Dumont E. , Bernard L. , Clavelou P.
Published: September 2016

Background and purpose

Lumbar puncture (LP) has been frequently performed for more than a century. This procedure is still stressful and often painful. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of a fixed 50% nitrous oxide−oxygen mixture compared to placebo to reduce immediate procedural pain and anxiety during LP.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving adults who needed a cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Patients were randomly assigned to inhale either a fixed 50% nitrous oxide−oxygen mixture (50% N2O−O2) or medical air (22% O2−78% N2). Cutaneous application of a eutectic mixture of local anaesthetics was systematically done and all LPs were performed with pencil point 25G needles (20G introducer needle). The primary end‐point was the maximal pain level felt by the patient during the procedure, the maximal anxiety level being a secondary outcome, both measured using a numerical rating scale (0–10).

Results

A total of 66 consecutive patients were randomized. The analysis was intention to treat. The maximal pain was 4.9 ± 2.7 for the 33 patients receiving air and 2.7 ± 2.7 for the 33 receiving 50% N2O−O2 (P = 0.002). Similarly, the maximal LP‐induced anxiety was 4.5 ± 3.1 vs. 2.6 ± 2.6 (P = 0.009), respectively. The number needed to treat to avoid one patient undergoing significant pain (pain score ≥ 4/10) was 2.75. Body mass index >25 kg/m2 was significantly associated with higher pain intensity (P = 0.03). No serious adverse events were attributable to 50% N2O−O2 inhalation.

Conclusions

Inhalation of a fixed 50% N2O−O2 mixture is efficient to reduce LP‐induced pain and anxiety.
HLA‐B*40:02 and DRB1*04:03 are risk factors for oxcarbazepine‐induced maculopapular eruption
Authors: Moon Jangsup , Kim Tae‐Joon , Lim Jung‐Ah , Sunwoo Jun‐Sang , Byun Jung‐Ick , Lee Soon‐Tae , Jung Keun‐Hwa , Park Kyung‐Il , Jung Ki‐Young , Jeon Daejong , Yu Kyung‐Sang , Jang In‐Jin , Chu Kon , Lee Sang Kun
Published: September 2016

Objective

Oxcarbazepine (OXC) is a widely used antiepileptic drug for the treatment of partial seizures that was developed through structural variation of carbamazepine. Although OXC has a lower risk of cutaneous adverse drug reactions (cADRs) than carbamazepine, cADRs ranging from maculopapular eruption (MPE) to the more severe Stevens‐Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis still limit the use of OXC in some patients. A few human leukocyte antigen (HLA)–related genetic risk factors for carbamazepine‐induced cADRs have been identified. However, the HLA‐related genetic risk factors associated with OXC‐induced cADRs are unknown.

Methods

A total of 40 patients who experienced OXC‐induced MPE and 70 patients who were tolerant to OXC treatment were included in the study. Genomic DNA was extracted from the peripheral blood of these patients, and high‐resolution HLA genotyping was performed.

Results

The HLA‐B*40:02 and HLA‐DRB1*04:03 alleles were significantly associated with OXC‐induced MPE compared with the OXC‐tolerant group (odds ratio [OR] 4.33, p = 0.018 and OR 14.64, p = 0.003, respectively) and the general Korean population (OR 4.04, p = 0.001 and OR 3.11, p = 0.019, respectively). The HLA‐B*15:01 genetic frequency was significantly lower in the OXC‐MPE group compared to the OXC‐tolerant group (OR 0.18, p = 0.016) and the Korean population (OR 0.22, p = 0.030). The allele frequencies of well‐known HLA‐related risk factors for carbamazepine‐induced cADRs (HLA‐B*15:02, A*31:01 and B*15:11) were not different among the three groups.

Significance

This study is the first to demonstrate an association of HLA‐B*40:02 and HLA‐DRB1*04:03 with OXC hypersensitivity using a large cohort of patients with OXC‐induced MPE. These findings should be confirmed in future studies in different ethnic groups.
Angler apps as a source of recreational fisheries data: opportunities, challenges and proposed standards
Authors: Venturelli Paul A , Hyder Kieran , Skov Christian
Published: September 2016

Recreational fisheries surveys are limited in time and place in many countries. This lack of data limits scientific understanding and sustainable management. Smartphone applications (apps) allow anglers to record the details of their fishing trips and catches. In this study, we describe the opportunities and challenges associated with angler apps as a source of recreational fisheries data, and propose minimum standards for data collection via angler apps. Angler apps are a potentially valuable source of conventional and novel data that are both frequent and extensive, and an opportunity to engage anglers through data sharing and citizen science. Realizing this potential requires that we address significant challenges related to angler recruitment and retention, data quality and bias, and integration with existing fisheries programmes. We propose solutions to each of these challenges. Given that the angler app market is diverse, competitive and unpredictable, we emphasize minimum standards for data collection as a way to ensure large and reliable data sets that can be compared and integrated across apps. These standards relate to trips and catches, and angler demographics and behaviour, and should be supported through consultation and research. Angler apps have the potential to fundamentally change how anglers interact with the resource and with management.
Consumer interest in social sustainability issues of whitefish from capture fisheries in the north‐east Atlantic
Authors: Veldhuizen Linda J L , van der Lans Ivo A , Berentsen Paul BM , de Boer Imke J M , Bokkers Eddie A M
Published: September 2016

Capture fisheries in the north‐east Atlantic account for approximately 10% of all fish consumed from capture fisheries globally. The literature shows that consumers show considerable interest in social sustainability of products in general and of fish specifically. This interest, however, has not yet been investigated for fish from the north‐east Atlantic. The first objective of this study, therefore, was to investigate whether consumers are interested in social sustainability issues of whitefish from the north‐east Atlantic by determining preferences for four social sustainability issues with distinct benefits in relation to a known reference point (i.e. approach to overfishing). The second objective of this study was to determine to what degree case‐specific and general psychographic consumer characteristics explain preferences for these issues. Choice modelling results from an online survey among 457 Dutch consumers show that consumers have the strongest preference for the environmental sustainability issue approach to overfishing. In addition, results on the social sustainability issues showed that consumers prefer fish welfare over product quality, worker safety and local employment, indicating that in this case, consumers place animal benefits over personal, worker and community benefits. The case‐specific psychographic characteristic concern contributed most to explaining preferences for the environmental sustainability issue, whereas the general psychographic characteristic personal relevance contributed most to explaining preferences for the social sustainability issues. This result is likely explained by the principal focus on MSC certification in markets for fish products, which caused consumers to form opinions (e.g. concern) on overfishing, but not on social sustainability.
Ecogeographical gradients in plumage coloration among Australasian songbird clades
Authors: Friedman Nicholas R. , Remeš Vladimír
Published: September 2016

Aim

Animal coloration often shows high degrees of evolutionary lability, producing variation among species that is easily apparent. This variation may produce consistent geographical patterns as species converge on adaptive phenotypes in similar environments. Some such geographical patterns in colour variation have been recently predicted as a response to the light environment in different habitats. Others like Gloger's rule – the negative relationship between brightness and humidity – have long been observed but still demand explanation. Finally, the conventional wisdom that tropical birds are more colourful remains largely untested.

Location

Australia, New Guinea.

Methods

Here, we compared plumage coloration across two families of Australian birds (Meliphagidae, n = 97 species; Acanthizidae, n = 40 species) in a combined spatial and phylogenetic framework. We assessed the extent to which environmental variables extracted from species ranges explain variation in colour traits, while correcting for the autocorrelation inherent in spatially structured data using extensive simulations.

Results

We found several strong effects of environment on plumage coloration. Inland species with ranges marked by high aridity and temperature seasonality showed greater colour span among acanthizids, and greater saturation among meliphagids. Gloger's rule was supported in both clades, but more strongly for dorsal plumage. The most consistent correlate in this relationship was vegetation: birds in regions with more vegetation had markedly darker plumage. Ornament hue showed no significant associations with vegetation or climate.

Main conclusions

Birds living close to the equator were not more colourful, but species inhabiting arid regions were. Species may respond to the shorter and less predictable breeding seasons of arid environments by evolving increased ornamentation. The consistent relationship we observed between vegetation and dorsal brightness supports a primary role for countershading and background matching in Gloger's rule.
Effects of long‐term grazing management on dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) in Agrostis capillaris grassland
Authors: Supek Š. , Pavlů V. , Pavlů L. , Gaisler J. , Hejcman M. , Ludvíková V. , Mikulka J.
Published: September 2016

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale agg.) is a common forb species in grasslands in Europe. Although sometimes regarded as a valuable forage herb, it may become a weed, especially in arable land. There is limited information on the response of Taraxacum to long‐term grassland management practices. Therefore, we analysed cover and dry‐matter standing biomass of Taraxacum in a long‐term (1998–2012) grazing experiment on an Agrostis capillaris grassland. The following treatments were laid out on formerly abandoned grassland: (i) intensive grazing (IG); (ii) extensive grazing (EG); (iii) first cut followed by intensive grazing (ICG); (iv) first cut followed by extensive grazing (ECG); and (v) unmanaged grassland (U). During the first 10 years, all defoliation treatments (i–iv) supported the presence of Taraxacum, and the lowest proportion was recorded in the unmanaged treatment (U). During the final 7 years of the study, combined cutting and grazing promoted Taraxacum cover more than that of grazing only (ICG > IG > ECG > EG). Cover of Taraxacum was negatively affected by increasing sward height where Taraxacum plants had lower fitness. Due to the relatively strong relationship between percentage cover of Taraxacum and its dry‐matter biomass, percentage cover could be used as a simple method for the assessment of biomass of Taraxacum in a sward. Results are discussed in the context of adapting the management of A. capillaris grassland as a simple method for control of Taraxacum abundance, particularly in situations of extensification or abandonment.
Reducing blood stream infection in patients on hemodialysis: Incorporating patient engagement into a quality improvement activity
Authors: Ball Lynda K. , George Cheryl A. , Duval Linda , Hedrick Niloufar “Nellie” F.
Published: September 2016

Introduction Infection in our immunocompromised patients is the second leading cause of death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In an effort to improve quality of care, engage patients in their own care, and reduce morbidity and mortality secondary to infection, the Network designed a joint quality improvement/patient engagement activity to decrease bloodstream infection (BSI) rates.

Methods Dialysis facilities were ranked utilizing 2014 National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) data. Selection included 20% of Network 13 facilities (n = 58) with the highest BSI rates, which captured 31% of the patient population.

Findings Statistically significant (P < 0.001) improvement was reached in the reduction of BSIs; increasing patient engagement in the infection control process; and, correct completion of hand hygiene audits. Significant (P < 0.01) improvement was reached in correct completion of cannulation audits. There was also improvement in the catheter audits, but results were not significant.

Discussion Involving patients in the infection control process contributed to our successful outcomes and could be replicated to meet the needs of the end stage renal disease community as a whole.
Role of isolated ultrafiltration in the management of chronic refractory and acute decompensated heart failure
Authors: MITTAL Mayank K. , KATTA Natraj , ALPERT Martin A.
Published: September 2016

Chronic congestive heart failure (CHF) and acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) refractory to medical therapy represent therapeutic challenges. In such patients, attempts to reduce pulmonary and systemic congestion frequently produce deterioration of renal function. In studies of patients with chronic severe CHF refractory to medical therapy (including loop diuretics), isolated ultrafiltration was frequently able to relieve congestive symptoms by precise removal of extracellular water and sodium, and in some cases was able to restore responsiveness to loop diuretics. Randomized controlled trials comparing isolated ultrafiltration and medical therapy (mainly loop diuretics) in patients with ADHF failed to demonstrate the superiority of isolated ultrafiltration over diuretic therapy with respect to renal function and mortality. Isolated ultrafiltration reduced length of hospital stay in several studies. At this time, there is insufficient evidence to support the use of isolated ultrafiltration as initial therapy of ADHF.
Surfing like a Girl: A Critique of Feminine Embodied Movement in Surfing
Authors: Brennan Daniel
Published: September 2016

This article explores the position of women in the sport of surfing. I contend that within surfing there remain many forms of oppression that have not been given appropriate attention in feminist studies. In this article I apply Iris Marion Young's analysis from “Throwing Like a Girl” to the sport of surfing. Young's article offers many insights into forms of domination and oppression that pervade the sport, and that are demonstrated through the restricted movement of female surfers. I conclude by making suggestions for how to address these issues in surfing through a greater promotion of big‐wave surfing.
Unjust Sex vs. Rape
Authors: Cahill Ann J.
Published: September 2016

This article returns to a philosophical conundrum that has troubled feminist theory since the topic of sexual violence has been taken seriously, what I call the problem of the “heteronormative sexual continuum”: how sexual assault and hegemonic heterosex are conceptually and politically related. I continue my response to the work of Nicola Gavey, who has argued for the existence of a “gray area” of sexual interactions that are ethically questionable without rising to the category of sexual assault, but whose analysis did not explicitly articulate what these two categories share or what distinguishes them from each other. After summarizing Gavey's position, I summarize my previous articulation of the common ground between instances of sexual assault and examples of sexual interactions in the “gray area.” I then develop a theoretical account of how the two categories differ, arguing that the victim's agency plays different roles in the two types of interactions. Both the fact of that distinction—that we are capable of providing a philosophical account of the difference between sexual interactions that fall into the gray area and those that constitute sexual assault—and its particular content are crucial for the development of a tenable feminist sexual ethics.
Feminist Philosophy, Pragmatism, and the “Turn to Affect”: A Genealogical Critique
Authors: Fischer Clara
Published: September 2016

Recent years have witnessed a focus on feeling as a topic of reinvigorated scholarly concern, described by theorists in a range of disciplines in terms of a “turn to affect.” Surprisingly little has been said about this most recent shift in critical theorizing by philosophers, including feminist philosophers, despite the fact that affect theorists situate their work within feminist and related, sometimes intersectional, political projects. In this article, I redress the seeming elision of the “turn to affect” in feminist philosophy, and develop a critique of some of the claims made by affect theorists that builds upon concerns regarding the “newness” of affect and emotion in feminist theory, and the risks of erasure this may entail. To support these concerns, I present a brief genealogy of feminist philosophical work on affect and emotion. Identifying a reductive tendency within affect theory to equate affect with bodily immanence, and to preclude cognition, culture, and representation, I argue that contemporary feminist theorists would do well to follow the more holistic models espoused by the canon of feminist work on emotion. Furthermore, I propose that prominent affect theorist Brian Massumi is right to return to pragmatism as a means of redressing philosophical dualisms, such as emotion/cognition and mind/body, but suggest that such a project is better served by John Dewey's philosophy of emotion than by William James's.
Biocompatibility of three new calcium silicate‐based endodontic sealers on human periodontal ligament stem cells
Authors: Collado‐González M. , García‐Bernal D. , Oñate‐Sánchez R. E. , Ortolani‐Seltenerich P. S. , Lozano A. , Forner L. , Llena C. , Rodríguez‐Lozano F. J.
Published: September 2016

Aim

To evaluate the biocompatibility of three calcium silicate‐based endodontic sealers, Bioroot BC Sealer (Septodont, Saint‐Maur‐des‐Fosses, France), Endoseal MTA (EndoSeal, Maruchi, Seoul, Korea) and Nano‐ceramic Sealer (B&L Biotech, Fairfax, VA, USA) (NCS), on human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs).

Methodology

Human periodontal ligament stem cells were cultured in the presence of various endodontic sealer eluates for 24 h. Cell viability was determined using the MTT assay. Cell death and changes in phenotype induced by the set endodontic sealer eluates were evaluated through flow cytometry. Also, an in vitro scratch wound‐healing model was used to determine their effects in cell migration. Finally, to assess cell morphology and attachment to the different sealers, hPDLSCs were directly seeded onto the material surfaces and analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). One‐way analysis of variance (anova) followed by a Bonferroni post‐test was performed (P < 0.05).

Results

At 24 h, cell spreading was evident in the presence of Bioroot BC Sealer (BR) and Nano‐ceramic Sealer (NCS), but not Endoseal MTA (ES). At 72 h, BR and NCS exhibited high and moderate cell proliferation, respectively, whereas ES revealed low rates of cell proliferation (P < 0.05). Similar results were obtained in a cell death assay. In addition, hPDLSCs maintained their mesenchymal phenotype in all conditions although their capacity to migrate was higher in the presence of BR. Finally, SEM studies revealed a good degree of proliferation, cell spreading and attachment, especially when using BR and NCS discs.

Conclusions

BR and NCS were associated with better cytocompatibility than ES. Further in vitro and in vivo investigations are required to confirm the suitability of these calcium silicate‐based endodontic sealers for clinical application.
Infant Neurodevelopment is Affected by Prenatal Maternal Stress: The QF2011 Queensland Flood Study
Authors: Simcock Gabrielle , Laplante David P. , Elgbeili Guillaume , Kildea Sue , Cobham Vanessa , Stapleton Helen , King Suzanne
Published: September 2016

Research shows that prenatal maternal stress (PNMS) negatively affects a range of infant outcomes; yet no single study has explored the effects of stress in pregnancy from a natural disaster on multiple aspects of infant neurodevelopment. This study examined the effects of flood‐related stress in pregnancy on 6‐month‐olds' neurodevelopment and examined the moderating effects of timing of the stressor in gestation and infant sex on these outcomes. Women exposed to the 2011 Queensland (Australia) floods in pregnancy completed surveys on their flood‐related objective and subjective experiences at recruitment and reported on their infants' neurodevelopment on the problem solving, communication, and personal–social scales of the Ages and Stages‐III at 6 months postpartum (N = 115). Interaction results showed that subjective flood stress in pregnancy had significantly different effects in boys and girls, and that at high levels of stress girls had significantly lower problem solving scores than boys. Timing of the flood later in pregnancy predicted lower personal–social scores in the sample, and there was a trend (p < .10) for greater objective flood exposure to predict lower scores. PNMS had no effect on infants' communication skills. In conclusion, differential aspects of maternal flood‐related stress in pregnancy influenced aspects of 6‐month‐olds' neurodevelopment.
Checking Out the Future: A Perspective from African Theological Education
Authors: Kaunda Chammah J.
Published: September 2016

This article refers to the Global Survey on Theological Education, conducted between 2011 and 2013, to provide sub‐Saharan African critical reflection on the future of theological education in the continent. It considers the many contextual factors and shifting world views shaping Africa today, including the demographic shift of the heartlands of Christianity from the North to the South. It summarizes and analyzes seven critical responses from the survey findings, concluding that issues such as accreditation, accountability, integrity of leaders, viability of vision, and collaboration must be perceived in their interdependence and addressed systematically and comprehensively for the future of theological education in African Christianity.
Making Disciples: Obstacles and Opportunities in Urban Congregations
Authors: Lear Heather Heinzman
Published: September 2016

This article looks at the current theological understanding and practice of evangelism in the United Methodist Church. In the early 2000s, the denomination crafted and adopted the mission statement “Make Disciples of Jesus Christ for the Transformation of the World.” As someone who has worked at both the local church and denominational levels of the United Methodist Church, I have seen a gap between the denomination's stated mission and the actual ministry of local churches due to two primary obstacles. Congregations are unsure of what it entails to make disciples and do not understand that the purpose is for the transformation of the world. Through interviews and the study of local congregations, impediments to fulfilling this statement emerged. The article concludes by offering an example of an outlier congregation that is effectively engaged in life‐affirming evangelism in an urban setting.
“The Dearest Freshness Deep Down Things”: Environmental Justice and Mission in Ecumenical Perspective
Authors: Sasongko Nindyo
Published: September 2016

The ecumenical movement has produced many documents on issues of the environment and justice, but many churches do not know how to translate these documents into concrete actions. In this study I argue that social issues such as poverty and injustice cannot be separated from human responses toward the whole of creation. The ecumenical churches need to revitalize their mission and, as such, the churches need to revision their doctrines that centre on the human being by instead placing creation at the centre. Thus, nature is not just a background to the drama of redemption from sin, but that which God loves and preserves. This article elaborates this thesis in three main parts: the integrality of the problem of injustice and human responses toward all of creation, how churches should revision some major doctrines to be more sensitive to the environment, and how churches translate these documents into actions in their own contexts.
Evolution in the South American ‘Lost World’: insights from multilocus phylogeography of stefanias (Anura, Hemiphractidae, Stefania)
Authors: Kok Philippe J. R. , Russo Valerio G. , Ratz Sebastian , Means D. Bruce , MacCulloch Ross D. , Lathrop Amy , Aubret Fabien , Bossuyt Franky
Published: September 2016

Aim

To investigate the influence of tepuian geomorphology on species diversification in the Pantepui biogeographical region based on the phylogenetic relationships and divergence times of tepui‐endemic clades of stefania frogs (Stefania, Hemiphractidae).

Location

The ‘tepuis’ and uplands/lowlands of the Pantepui biogeographical region of northern South America, one of the least accessible and least studied areas in the world.

Methods

Two mitochondrial and two nuclear DNA sequences from 60 individuals of Stefania from 24 localities in Pantepui were employed to infer phylogenetic affinities and estimate divergence times within the genus using both concatenation and species tree analyses. Ancestral areas were inferred using multiple models in a common likelihood framework.

Results

Phylogenetic analyses revealed high diversity in the genus Stefania with 10 candidate species in the Eastern Pantepui District. Four strongly supported clades are recovered in the area, one being exclusively composed of microendemics on isolated tepui summits. Biogeographical analyses suggest episodes of fragmentation of widespread tepuian ancestors from the onset of diversification of the genus, estimated in the Oligocene (c. 26 Ma), therefore suggesting a neglected vicariant model of Pantepui evolution, the Plateau Theory.

Main conclusions

Although our results suggest that vicariance played an important role in the diversification of Stefania, speciation in Pantepui followed an intricate pattern implying multiple nonexclusive processes. Vicariance and dispersal likely influenced diversification patterns of the Pantepui fauna, possibly according to the following sequence: (1) Cenozoic vicariance; (2) reorganization of species diversity due to periods of climatic instability; (3) recent invasions (Pleistocene) of widespread upland taxa.
A new Eurasian phylogeographical paradigm? Limited contribution of southern populations to the recolonization of high latitude populations in Juniperus communis L. (Cupressaceae)
Authors: Hantemirova E. V. , Heinze B. , Knyazeva S. G. , Musaev A. M. , Lascoux M. , Semerikov V. L.
Published: September 2016

Aim

The aims of this population genetics study of the common juniper across Eurasia were to (1) assess the contribution of southern mountain ranges to the post‐glacial recolonization of high latitudes and (2) test whether recent expansion or high gene flow could explain the low genetic differentiation in Northern Eurasia.

Location

Northern Eurasia and mountain regions of Central Europe and Asia.

Methods

Six hundred and twenty‐two individuals were sampled in 42 populations. Two chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) fragments were investigated (trnT‐trnL and 16S‐trnA). Analyses of the distribution of haplotypes across the continent included a suite of phylogeographical and phylogenetic tests. Putative geographical distribution in the past was reconstructed using environmental niche modelling.

Results

Eighty‐four haplotypes clustered into four main clades (GL1‐GL4). The largest clade, GL3, corresponds to populations from the Alps, northern Europe, Western Caucasus and Siberia. These populations were moderately differentiated (28%) compared to the total range (76%) and Fu's Fs statistic was negative, indicating a population expansion. Some haplotypes within GL3 form subclades with a restricted geographical distribution, suggesting a local origin of the mutation and limited dispersal. In line with these findings, modelling of ecological niches found no significant reduction in the expected range during the LGM. Remarkably, populations from the eastern part of North Caucasus, the Himalayas, Tien Shan and south Siberia were distinctly different from populations in the rest of the range.

Main conclusions

As in Siberian larch species, the pattern of genetic diversity at cpDNA across the natural range of J. communis suggests that colonization of northern Europe and Siberia started from a limited area and predated the last glaciation. It is likely that juniper survived the subsequent glacial epoch at high latitudes in cryptic refugia serving as secondary centres of recolonization. Southern mountain refugia contribution to the recolonization of high latitudes was, at best, limited.
The Life Cycle Assessment of an Energy‐Positive Peri‐Urban Residence in a Tropical Regime
Authors: Bukoski Jacob J. , Chaiwiwatworakul Pipat , Gheewala Shabbir H.
Published: September 2016

Urban settlements are home to the greatest levels of greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption globally, with unprecedented rates of urban expansion occurring today. With the majority of global urbanization occurring along the periphery of urban areas in developing countries, investigation of “green” building practices designed specifically for “peri‐urban” regions is critical for a low‐emitting future society. This study assesses a state‐of‐the‐art residence designed for a middle‐class family of four residing in the peri‐urban region of Bangkok, Thailand. The residence employs both demand‐side management strategies and low‐emitting energy supply technology to achieve energy‐positive status. To elucidate the influence that key design decisions have on the life cycle sustainability of the home, several variants of the residence are modeled. A process‐based life cycle assessment consistent with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14044:2006 standard and following ReCiPe Midpoint life cycle impact assessment methodology is used to quantify the life cycle impacts per square meter of conditioned residence floor area for climate change (582 kilograms [kg] carbon dioxide equivalent), terrestrial acidification (4.01 kg sulfur dioxide equivalent), freshwater eutrophication (30.4 grams phosphorous equivalent), fossil depletion (362 kg iron equivalent), and metal depletion (186 kg oil equivalent) impacts. We model multiple scenarios in which varying proportions of Bangkok's peri‐urban detached housing demand are fulfilled by the energy‐positive residence variants. Under the best‐case replacement scenario (i.e., 100% replacement of future peri‐urban detached housing), significant reductions are achieved across the life cycle climate change (80%), terrestrial acidification (82%), and fossil depletion (81%) impact categories for the steel‐framed, energy‐positive residence.
Fifty Years of Consumer Issues inThe Journal of Consumer Affairs
Authors: DeVaney Sharon A.
Published: September 2016

This article is the Guest Editor's introduction to the virtual issue to celebrate the 50th anniversary ofJournal of Consumer Affairs(JCA) published on the journal website in the summer of 2016. The virtual issue highlights the research published duringJCA's first 50 years and includes 20 articles that reported on consumer issues which are still relevant today. The evolution of research topics over the 50 years shows that consumer issues have evolved from handling and resolving complaints to information search, decision making, consumer fraud, debt profiles, a hierarchy of saving needs, welfare reform, diffusion of innovations, identity theft, financial literacy, and health care reform. The 2010 creation of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau can be seen as a capstone for the consumer movement. What will the next 50 years bring? We can assume thatJCAwill continue to be a leader in providing research on consumers and their issues.
Evaluation of Body Weight, Body Condition, and Muscle Condition in Cats with Hyperthyroidism
Authors: Peterson M.E. , Castellano C.A. , Rishniw M.
Published: September 2016

Background

The contribution of fat loss versus muscle wasting to the loss of body weight seen in hyperthyroid cats is unknown.

Objectives

To investigate body weight, body condition score (BCS), and muscle condition score (MCS) in hyperthyroid cats.

Animals

Four hundred sixty‐two cats with untreated hyperthyroidism, 117 of which were reevaluated after treatment.

Methods

Prospective cross‐sectional and before–after studies. Untreated hyperthyroid cats had body composition evaluated (body weight, BCS, and MCS). A subset of these cats were reevaluated 3–12 months after treatment when euthyroid.

Results

Pretreatment body weight (median, 4.36 kg; IQR, 3.5 to 5.2 kg) was lower than premorbid weight (5.45 kg; IQR, 4.6 to 6.4 kg, P < .0001) recorded 1–2 years before diagnosis. 154 (35.3%) cats were thin or emaciated; 357 (77.3%) had loss of muscle mass. Cats showed increases in body weight (median, 4.1 kg to 5.0 kg), BCS (median, 3/5 to 3.5/5), and MCS (2/3 to 3/3) after treatment (P < .001), but mild‐to‐moderate muscle wasting persisted in 45% of treated cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Most hyperthyroid cats lose body weight but maintain an ideal or overweight BCS, with only a third being underweight. As in human hyperthyroid patients, this weight loss is associated with muscle wasting, which affects >75% of hyperthyroid cats. Successful treatment leads to weight gain and increase of BCS in most cats, but almost half fail to regain normal muscle mass.