bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assay for Transposase-Accessible Chromatin-Sequencing Using Xenopus Embryos
Authors: Bright Ann Rose , Veenstra Gert Jan C.
Published: September 2018

The DNA of eukaryotic genomes is packaged into chromatin by nucleosomes. This not only compacts the DNA but also plays a central role in gene regulation and establishment of cellular identity during development. Because of this packaging, the DNA is relatively inaccessible to nucleoplasmic factors; however, regulatory elements such as promoters, enhancers, and insulators are largely kept nucleosome-free. The assay for transposase-accessible chromatin (ATAC-seq) can be used to identify genomic locations of “open” chromatin, footprints of DNA-binding proteins, and positioned nucleosomes. It therefore is a powerful tool for unraveling the dynamic regulatory landscape of chromatin. The method exploits the action of hyperactive prokaryotic Tn5-transposase, which preferentially cuts DNA in accessible chromatin and tags the sites with sequencing adaptors. Here we describe an ATAC-seq protocol for use with Xenopus tropicalis embryos.
Chromatin Characterization in Xenopus laevis Cell-Free Egg Extracts and Embryos
Authors: Wang Wei-Lin , Onikubo Takashi , Shechter David
Published: September 2018

Xenopus laevis development is marked by accelerated cell division solely supported by the proteins maternally deposited in the egg. Oocytes mature to eggs with concomitant transcriptional silencing. The unique maternal chromatin state contributing to this silencing and subsequent zygotic activation is likely established by histone posttranslational modifications and histone variants. Therefore, tools for understanding the nature and function of maternal and embryonic histones are essential to deciphering mechanisms of regulation of development, chromatin assembly, and transcription. Here we describe protocols for isolating pronuclear sperm chromatin from Xenopus egg extracts and hydroxyapatite-based histone purification from this chromatin. The histones purified through this method can be directly assembled into chromatin through in vitro assembly reactions, providing a unique opportunity to biochemically dissect the effect of histone variants, histone modifications, and other factors in chromatin replication and assembly. We also describe how to isolate chromatin from staged embryos and analyze the proteins to reveal dynamic developmental histone modifications. Finally, we present protocols to measure chromatin assembly in extracts, including supercoiling and micrococcal nuclease assays. Using these approaches, analysis of maternal and zygotic histone posttranslational modifications concomitant with cell-cycle and developmental transitions can be tested.
Rod-Specific Ablation Using the Nitroreductase/Metronidazole System to Investigate Regeneration in Xenopus
Authors: Martinez-De Luna Reyna I. , Zuber Michael E.
Published: September 2018

Genetically controlled cell type–specific ablation provides a reproducible method to induce regeneration that can be temporally and spatially controlled. Until recently, regeneration studies in Xenopus have relied on surgical methods to stimulate regeneration. These methods are labor intensive and not as reproducible as a genetically controlled approach. In this protocol we describe selective ablation of rod photoreceptors in the premetamorphic Xenopus laevis retina using the nitroreductase/metronidazole (NTR/Mtz) system. We use the XOPNTR transgenic line in which the Xenopus Rhodopsin promoter drives rod photoreceptor-specific expression of the bacterial enzyme, NTR. Exposure of transgenic tadpoles to Mtz for 2 d completely ablates rods by 7 d after initial Mtz exposure. Removal of Mtz allows rods to regenerate and makes rod-specific ablation reversible and amenable for regeneration studies. The protocol presented here is applicable to the selective ablation of any cell type with the use of appropriate cell type–specific promoters.
Investigating the Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Wound Healing in Xenopus Oocytes and Embryos
Authors: Li Jingjing , Amaya Enrique
Published: September 2018

The African clawed frog Xenopus has remarkable capacities to heal wounds rapidly and to regenerate complex tissues. Because of its experimental tractability, studies using Xenopus oocytes, embryos, and larvae have contributed extensively to our understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underpinning wound healing and tissue regeneration. In this protocol, we describe wound-healing assays following mechanical or laser injuries of oocytes and multicellular epithelia in Xenopus laevis embryos. We also explain how to perform assays aimed at investigating the cellular and molecular events during wound healing, including gene knockdown and overexpression experiments. In the latter assays, we explore the use of biochemical pull-down assays to investigate the activity of Rho GTPases, as well as the injection of mRNAs encoding fluorescent proteins or probes, followed by quantitative confocal image analyses to assay the dynamics of cytoskeletal components and their regulators.
Analysis of Cell Fate Commitment in Xenopus Embryos
Authors: Moody Sally A.
Published: September 2018

The fates of individual cleavage-stage blastomeres and of groups of cells at the blastula through gastrula stages of Xenopus embryos have been mapped in great detail. These studies identified the major contributors of the three germ layers as well as a variety of tissues and organs and several specific cell types. One can use these fate maps to test the commitment of single cells or groups of cells to produce their normal repertoire of descendants, to identify the genes that regulate fate commitment, and to modulate the levels of gene expression in specific lineages to determine gene function in a variety of developmental processes. Here we introduce methods that include how to identify specific blastomeres, inject them with lineage tracers, and alter gene expression levels. We also discuss methods for assaying protein and mRNA expression in situ and for providing novel embryonic environments to test fate commitment. These techniques draw upon classical approaches that are quite easy to perform in the versatile Xenopus embryo.
Synthesis, crystal structure and cytotoxic activity of novel 5-methyl-4-thiopyrimidine derivatives
Authors: Stolarczyk Marcin , Bryndal Iwona , Matera-Witkiewicz Agnieszka , Lis Tadeusz , Królewska-Golińska Karolina , Cieślak Marcin , Kaźmierczak-Barańska Julia , Cieplik Jerzy
Published: September 2018

This article presents the synthesis of three new 4-thiopyrimidine derivatives obtained from ethyl 4-methyl-2-phenyl-6-sulfanylpyrimidine-5-carboxylate as the starting material, namely, ethyl 4-[(4-chlorobenzyl)sulfanyl]-6-methyl-2-phenylpyrimidine-5-carboxylate, C21H19ClN2O2S, (2), {4-[(4-chlorobenzyl)sulfanyl]-6-methyl-2-phenylpyrimidin-5-yl}methanol, C19H17ClN2OS, (3), and 4-[(4-chlorobenzyl)sulfanyl]-5,6-dimethyl-2-phenylpyrimidine, C19H17ClN2S, (4), which vary in the substituent at the 5-position of the pyrimidine ring. The compounds were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, IR and mass spectroscopies, and also elemental analysis. The molecular structures were further studied by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Compound (2) crystallizes in the space group P-1 with one molecule in the asymmetric unit, whereas compounds (3) and (4) crystallize in the space group P21/c with two and one molecule, respectively, in their asymmetric units. The conformation of each molecule is best defined by the dihedral angles formed between the pyrimidine ring and the planes of the two aryl substituents attached at the 2- and 4-positions. The only structural difference between the three compounds is the substituent at the 5-position of the pyrimidine ring, but they present significantly different features in the hydrogen-bond interactions. Compound (2) displays a one-dimensional chain formed by hydrogen bonds and the chains are further extended into a two-dimensional network. Molecules of (3) and (4) generate one-dimensional chains formed through intermolecular interactions. The study examines the cytotoxicity of compounds (3) and (4) against Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and HeLa, K562 and CFPAC cancer cell lines. The presence of the hydroxymethyl and methyl groups in (3) and (4), respectively, offers an interesting new insight into the structures and behaviour of these derivatives. Compound (4) was found to be nontoxic against CFPAC and HUVEC; however, it shows weak activity against the HeLa and K563 cell lines. The presence of a hydroxy group in (3) significantly increases its cytotoxicity towards both, i.e. the cancer (HeLa, K562 and CFPAC) and normal (HUVEC) cell lines.
Syntheses, crystal structures and optical properties of two one-dimensional germanophosphates: HRb3Ge2(HPO4)6 and CsGe(HPO4)2(OH)
Authors: Song Jun-Ling , Lu Wen-Xiu , Guo Tian-Shuo , Zhou Yu-Hua
Published: September 2018

Germanophosphates, as a young class of metal phosphates, have been less reported but might possess more diverse structural types and potential applications. Here, two one-dimensional (1D) alkali-metal germanophosphates (GePOs), namely, hydrogen hexakis(μ-hydrogen phosphato)digermaniumtrirubidium, HRb3Ge2(HPO4)6 (1), and caesium bis(μ-hydrogen phosphato)(μ-hydroxido)germanium, CsGe(HPO4)2(OH) (2), have been prepared by the solvothermal method. Compound 1 shows 1D [Ge(HPO4)6]∞ chains along the c axis formed by GeO6 octahedra and PO4 tetrahedra, with Rb+ cations dissociated between the chains. Compound 2 also exhibits 1D [Ge(HPO4)4(OH)2]∞ chains constructed from adjacent Ge(HPO4)4(OH)2 octahedra, with Cs+ cations dissociated between the chains. XRD, TGA, IR and UV–Vis–NIR absorption spectra are presented and discussed for both compounds.
Intersectional research stories of responsibilising the family for food, feeding and health in the twenty-first century
Authors: Davis Teresa , Hogg Margaret K. , Marshall David , Petersen Alan , Schneider Tanja
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Literature from across the social sciences and research evidence are used to highlight interdisciplinary and intersectional research approaches to food and family. Responsibilisation emerges as an important thematic thread, as family has (compared with the state and corporations) been increasingly made responsible for its members’ health and diet.

Design/methodology/approach

Three questions are addressed: first, to what extent food is fundamentally social, and integral to family identity, as reflected in the sociology of food; second, how debates about families and food are embedded in global, political and market systems; and third, how food work and caring became constructed as gendered.

Findings

Interest in food can be traced back to early explorations of class, political economy, the development of commodity culture and gender relations. Research across the social sciences and humanities draws on concepts that are implicitly sociological. Food production, mortality and dietary patterns are inextricably linked to the economic/social organisation of capitalist societies, including its gender-based divisions of domestic labour. DeVault’s (1991) groundbreaking work reveals the physical and emotional work of providing/feeding families, and highlights both its class and gendered dimensions. Family mealtime practices have come to play a key role in the emotional reinforcement of the idea of the nuclear family.

Originality/value

This study highlights the imperative to take pluri-disciplinary and intersectional approaches to researching food and family. In addition, this paper emphasises that feeding the family is an inherently political, moral, ethical, social and emotional process, frequently associated with gendered constructions.
Intercultural household food tensions: a relational dialectics analysis
Authors: Rogan Donal , Piacentini Maria , Hopkinson Gill
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Recent global migration trends have led to an increased prevalence, and new patterning, of intercultural family configurations. This paper is about intercultural couples and how they manage tensions associated with change as they settle in their new cultural context. The focus is specifically on the role food plays in navigating these tensions and the effects on the couples’ relational cultures.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative relational–dialectic approach is taken for studying Polish–Irish intercultural couples. Engagement with relevant communities provided multiple points of access to informants.

Findings

Intercultural tensions arise as the couples jointly transition, and food consumption represents implicit tensions in the household’s relational culture. Such tensions are sometimes resolved, but sometimes not, leading to enduring tensions. Dialectical movement causes change, which has developmental consequences for the couples’ relational cultures.

Research limitations/implications

This study shows how the ways that tensions are addressed are fundamental to the formation of a relational family identity.

Practical implications

Recommendations emphasise the importance of understanding how the family relational culture develops in the creation of family food practices. Marketers can look at the ways of supporting the intercultural couple retain tradition, while smoothly navigating their new cultural context. Social policy analysts may reflect on the ways that the couples develop an intercultural identity rooted in each other’s culture, and the range of strategies to demonstrate they can synthesise and successfully negotiate the challenges they face.

Originality/value

Dealing simultaneously and separately with a variety of dialectical oppositions around food, intercultural couples weave together elements from each other’s cultures and simultaneously facilitate both relational and social change. Within the relationship, stability–change dialectic is experienced and negotiated, while at the relationship’s nexus with the couple’s social ecology, negotiating conventionality–uniqueness dialectic enables them reproduce or depart from societal conventions, and thus facilitate social change.
Lucky or privileged? Working with memory and reflexivity
Authors: Trimingham Jack Christine
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Through a case study of the decision making that led to the writer becoming a teacher educator, the purpose of this paper is to contribute to historiography by exploring the complex process of surfacing and interpreting memory.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology draws on the concepts of autobiographical memory and reflexivity, together with documentary and archival sources including newspapers and secondary sources.

Findings

The outcome reveals that the process of memory is complex. It illustrates that allowing the participant a wide scope to work with pivotal memories, which may include those referring to material objects, may lead to unexpected and compelling explanations that have the power to change thinking in regards to related aspects of educational history. In this particular case, the findings reveal the long-term impact of boarding school experience.

Originality/value

The paper expands the way in which educational historians may think about undertaking interviews by illustrating the need for investment of time and close attention to all memories, some of which may at first seem to be irrelevant. Additionally, while a significant amount of research had been published on the long-term impact of boarding school experience on students in the UK, a little critical historical work has been undertaken in regards to the Australian experience – this paper offers a unique contribution to the undertaking of that project.
Hybrid revised weighted fuzzy c-means clustering with Nelder-Mead simplex algorithm for generalized multisource Weber problem
Authors: Kucukdeniz Tarik , Esnaf Sakir
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose hybrid revised weighted fuzzy c-means (RWFCM) clustering and Nelder–Mead (NM) simplex algorithm, called as RWFCM-NM, for generalized multisource Weber problem (MWP).

Design/methodology/approach

Although the RWFCM claims that there is no obligation to sequentially use different methods together, NM’s local search advantage is investigated and performance of the proposed hybrid algorithm for generalized MWP is tested on well-known research data sets.

Findings

Test results state the outstanding performance of new hybrid RWFCM and NM simplex algorithm in terms of cost minimization and CPU times.

Originality/value

Proposed approach achieves better results in continuous facility location problems.
Logistics system for drinking water distribution in post disaster humanitarian relief, Al-Za’atari camp
Authors: Smadi Hazem , Al Theeb Nader , Bawa’neh Haneen
Published: September 2018

Purpose

It is essential to provide drinking water to affected population directly after a disaster. The purpose of this paper is to develop an optimization methodology that helps in the distribution of drinking water in post-disaster situations.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was conducted on two phases: phase 1 aims at identifying an appropriate way to deliver drinking water to refugee camps from external sources, considering required drinking water quantities and four possible sources of water with respect to cost and risk assessments. Phase 2 investigates drinking water distribution within a refugee camp using covering models. The MCLP–optimal number of facilities model is proposed to ensure that the water is distributed and delivered to all individuals in a camp with minimum number of water storage tanks required. A control policy is proposed to ensure the fair distribution of water to all targeted individuals.

Findings

Al-Za’atari refugee camp, located in northeast of Jordan, was considered as the case study for this research. The result showed that the appropriate way to deliver water to the camp is by using tanker–trucks, and a minimum number of five tanks are required to distribute water to individuals inside the camp with respect to tank locations and the allocation of tank of each area.

Originality/value

The proposed methodology is essential in decision making for the distribution of drinking water in refugee camps in short-term needs. The model adds important value to the literature as the proposed problem has no solution in the literature before.
Reducing statistics anxiety using limited teaching resources
Authors: Nilsson Jonas , Carlsson Hauff Jeanette
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Students in the marketing discipline have been reported to struggle with quantitative methods. This paper aims to focus on whether it is possible to increase student confidence and reduce anxiety with quantitative data analysis even when limited teaching resources are available. It reports on two half-day initiatives to teach quantitative methods that followed the principles of integration of method into a substantive course (as opposed to stand-alone course) and hands-on approach (as opposed to using a theoretical and hands-off approach).

Design/methodology/approach

Over the course of three semesters, 92 students that took part of the sessions answered a survey where they reported their basic understanding, confidence, practical abilities and anxiety with quantitative methods.

Findings

The results indicate significant improvements in self-reported basic understanding, confidence, practical abilities and anxiety. Further analysis indicated that neither gender nor previous statistical background had an impact on perceived benefit with the initiative.

Practical implications

In all, the study indicates that integration and hands-on approaches may be beneficial to reduce anxiety and increase confidence with quantitative data analysis, even when this initiative is limited in time and resources.

Originality/value

The study presents an approach to reducing anxiety and increasing confidence with quantitative data analysis. Teaching initiatives like this may be beneficial in situations when students experience high levels of statistics anxiety.
Current state and future potential of logistics and supply chain education: a literature review
Authors: Sun Luoyi , Song Guang
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is threefold. First, it describes the general characteristics of studies on logistics and supply chain education (L&SCE). Second, it classifies identified papers on the basis of their main research methods and issues. Finally, it proposes some meaningful directions for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

Seventy-three papers published since 2000 in international peer-reviewed journals were reviewed using a systematic review methodology. The collected papers were analyzed and classified on the basis of research methods and issues.

Findings

It was found that most papers on L&SCE were published in journals in the logistics and supply chain management field and were conducted by either a single or mixed-method approach. The survey-based approach was the most preferred method. The contribution of this study is twofold. First, the identification of the five competencies and 49 skills required of logistics and supply chain talents was performed along with the analysis of the 42 courses and the teaching methods. Second, this study revealed some important aspects that have received inadequate attention in the literature and proposed potential research directions.

Originality/value

This paper provides academics and practitioners alike with a guide to extant literature. The proposed framework of the competencies and skills required of talents could be a guide to develop competence in both students and employees. The summary of the curriculum and the matrix of relationships between the relevant courses and competencies can be used by educators to improve L&SCE. Finally, the proposed research directions are meaningful for academics.
A model checking approach for user relationship management in the social network
Authors: Souri Alireza , Nourozi Monire , Rahmani Amir Masoud , Jafari Navimipour Nima
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe how formal verification strategies have been utilized to assess the correctness of Knowledge Creation Process (KCP) in the social systems. This paper analyzes a User Relationship Management (URM) approach in term of human behavior connection in the social systems. A formal framework is displayed for the URM which consolidates behavioral demonstrating strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

Evaluating the human behavior interactions is an important matter in the social systems. For this analysis, formal verification is an essential section in the complex information systems development. Model checking results satisfied the logical problems in the proposed behavior model analysis.

Findings

Model checking results represent satisfaction of the logical problems in the proposed behavior model analysis. In the statistical testing, the proposed URM mechanism supported KCP conditions. Also, the percentage of state reachability in the URM with KCP conditions is higher than the URM mechanism without supporting KCP conditions.

Originality/value

The model checking results show that the proposed URM mechanism with supporting the KCP conditions satisfies comprehensively behavioral interactions rather than the mechanism without KCP conditions in the social networks.
Beneficiary effect of a-lipoic acid supplementation on C-reactive protein level among adults
Authors: Fatahi Somaye , Kord Varkaneh Hamed , Teymouri Alireza , Azadbakht Leila
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Clinical evidence has suggested that alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), a potent antioxidant, seems to have some effects on inflammatory process. However, these results are equivocal. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the nature of association between ALA and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) level by pooling the results from clinical trial studies.

Design/methodology/approach

Relevant studies were identified by systematic literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Sciences and Cochrane library up to September 2016 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the impact of ALA supplementation on CRP. The pooled data were summarized as weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95 per cent confidence interval (CI). Effect sizes of eligible studies were pooled using random- or fixed-effects (the DerSimonian–Laird estimator) depending on the results of heterogeneity tests.

Findings

Of 212 papers, 15 were eligible RCTs according to inclusion criteria. The selected studies comprised 1,408 cases and 457 controls. The dose of ALA supplement ranged from 300 to 1,200 mg, and the duration of follow-up was from 1 to 48 weeks. ALA supplementation significantly reduced the levels of circulating CRP (WMD: −0.088, 95 per cent CI: −0.131, −0.045,p< 0.001) with significant heterogeneity (I2= 73.4 per cent,p< 0.001). Populations with age younger than 50 years (PMD: −0.060 mg/dl), receiving doses less than 600 mg/day (PMD: −0.057 mg/dl), having cardiovascular disease (PMD: −0.105 mg/dl), hemodialysis (PMD: −0.209 mg/dl), diabetes (PMD: −0.021 mg/dl) and otherwise healthy subjects (PMD: −0.045 mg/dl) were sources of heterogeneity.

Originality/Value

This meta-analysis of RCTs suggests that ALA supplementation seems to significantly reduce circulating CRP level.
A meta-analysis of service quality of Iranian university libraries based on the LibQUAL model
Authors: Ramezani Aboozar , Ghazimirsaeed Seyed Javad , Azadeh Fereydoon , Bandboni Mohammad Esmaeilpour , YektaKooshali Mohammad Hossein
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the quality of Iranian university libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

This first systematic review and meta-analysis were based on the PRISMA guidelines by searching in national and international databases from 2003 to January 2017 with standard Persian and English keywords. Data searching, extracting and quality appraising were completed by two researchers, independently. Any unexpected documents were assessed by a third expert researcher. Data were extracted in accordance with the “Strength of the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology” checklist after the final selection of appraised documents. Random effects size based on Cochrane test and I2 were used for combining the obtained results from different studies together by considering the heterogeneity of studies.

Findings

Based on the meta-analysis conducted in 25 (6.42 percent) included studies, the total sample size was estimated. According to three dimensions of LibQUAL, findings of current information control, affect of service and the library as a place were estimated as 5.37 [CI95%: 5.02, 5.73], 6.91 [CI95%: 5.56, 6.26], and 5.46 percent [CI95%: 5.2, 5.73], respectively. Also, mean of service adequacy and superiority gap are equal to 0.07 [CI95%: −0.22, 0.36] and −2.06 [CI95%: −2.89, −1.23], respectively. There was a significant correlation between three dimensions of service quality and service superiority gap of LibQUAL and geographical regions of Iran (p<0.01). Also, a significant correlation was found between the gaps of services and three aspects of LibQUAL model and published years through a meta-regression test (p<0.01).

Practical implications

The results obtained from the present study showed that users are relatively satisfied with the quality of services provided by Iranian university libraries. An improvement in the quality of library services can promote the scientific level of universities.

Originality/value

The results of the present systematic review and meta-analysis study demonstrate a vital connection between primary research studies and decision-making for policymakers in Iranian university libraries to increase quality services.
Microstructure of Sn-20In-2.8Ag solder and mechanical properties of joint with Cu
Authors: Peng Fen , Liu Wensheng , Ma Yunzhu , Liang Chaoping , Huang Yufeng , Tang Siwei
Published: September 2018

Purpose

To explore substitutes for traditional Sn-Pb solder, Sn-20In-2.8Ag was considered because of its appropriate melting temperature, good reliability and high ductility at less than 100°C. However, the mechanical properties of Sn-20In-2.8Ag were not satisfactory. The reason for the poor mechanical properties of the Sn-20In-2.8Ag/Cu joint was revealed, and a way to solve the problem was found.

Design/methodology/approach

The microstructure evolution, characteristics of melting and solidification and joining performance with Cu were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron probe microanalysis, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and mechanical testing.

Findings

SEM results showed that the microstructure of Sn-20In-2.8Ag was composed of coarse dendritic Ag2In and γ phases, with Ag2In distributed at the grain boundaries. DSC measurements revealed that small amount of low temperature eutectic reaction, L → Ag2In + β + γ, occurred at 112.9°C. This reaction was caused by the segregation of indium, which is a process that has a strong driving force. In the lap-shear testing, a crack propagated along the grain boundary of the solder, and failure showed an intergranular fracture. This failure was connected with the three-phase eutectic and coarse Ag2In. Thus, to improve the mechanical properties, segregation of indium should be reduced and coarsening of Ag2In should be prevented.

Originality/value

The reason for the unsatisfactory mechanical properties of Sn-20In-2.8Ag was revealed via microstructural observations and solidification analysis, and the way to solve this problem was found.
Dying Quietly: English Suburbs and the Stiff Upper Lip
Authors: Dorling Danny
Published: September 2018

The English suburbs are dying. Years of austerity have slowly changed the landscape. Poverty is now common in the suburbs. Since 2014, life expectancy has been falling across most of England, especially in the suburbs. Now infant mortality rates are also rising year on year (unlike anywhere else in Europe). In hindsight it is not surprising that the majority of suburban English people voted Brexit, most noticeably in the Home Counties. Middle England is understandably angry. No more fortitude in the face of adversity and the hiding of emotions. The stiff up lip has slipped. Change is in the air.
Political Maternal Involvement: A Comparative Study of Mexican Mothers’ Activism to Address School Board’s Deficit Practices
Authors: Manzo Rosa D. , Deeb‐Sossa Natalia
Published: September 2018

Drawing from ethnographic research in two sites in California, we examine how school boards’ deficit practices create barriers for mothers. We analyze how school boards acted as gatekeepers to educational opportunities and maternal involvement. Our analysis reveals that mothers activated their agency as parents to foster civic capacity and create change in their local school systems. Findings support the emerging body of literature that calls for more collaborative models that acknowledge families’ cultural knowledge.
Global Capnography Project (GCAP): implementation of capnography in Malawi – an international anaesthesia quality improvement project
Authors: Jooste R. , Roberts F. , Mndolo S. , Mabedi D. , Chikumbanje S. , Whitaker D. K. , O'Sullivan E. P.
Published: September 2018

The Lancet Commission on Global Surgery emphasised the importance of access to safe anaesthesia care. Capnography is an essential monitor for safe anaesthesia, but is rarely available in low‐income countries. The aim of this study was twofold: to measure the prevalence of capnography in the operating theatres and in intensive care units; and to determine whether its introduction was feasible and could improve the early recognition of critical airway incidents in a low‐income country. This is the first project to do this. Forty capnographs were donated to eight hospitals in Malawi. Thirty‐two anaesthesia providers received a 1‐day capnography training course with pre‐ and post‐course knowledge testing. Providers kept logbooks of capnography use and recorded their responses to abnormal readings. On follow‐up at 6 months, providers completed questionnaires on any significant patient safety incidents identified using capnography. In January 2017, at the commencement of the project, only one operating theatre had a capnograph. Overall, 97% and 100% ‘capnography gaps’ were identified in the theatres and intensive care units, respectively. The mean (SD) scores of our capnography multiple choice questionnaires improved after training from 15.00 (3.16) to 18.70 (0.99), p = < 0.001. The capnography equipment was appropriately robust and performed well. Six months following implementation, 24 (77%) anaesthesia providers reported recognising 44 oesophageal intubations and 28 (90%) believed that capnography had saved lives. This study has shown it is feasible to introduce capnography in a low‐income country, resulting in early recognition of critical airway incidents and ultimately helping to save lives. Building on the experience of the first trial of pulse oximetry implementation in low‐income countries in 2007, we believe this is one of the most important projects in anaesthesia safety in the last decade.
Accuracy of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging to detect significant prostate cancer and index lesion location
Authors: Goldman Hariette , Singh Neha , Harding Catherine , McGirr Joe , Seal Alexa , Duncan Ian , Sowter Steven
Published: September 2018

Background

Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) of the prostate appears to improve prostate cancer detection, but studies comparing mpMRI to histopathology at the time of radical prostatectomy (RP) are lacking. This retrospective study determined the accuracy of mpMRI predicting Gleason score and index lesion location at the time of RP, the current gold standard for diagnosis.

Methods

Between April 2013 and April 2016, a database of all men aged more than 40 years who underwent RP after positive transrectal ultrasound biopsy by an experienced urological surgeon was collated at a single regional centre. This was cross‐referenced with a database of all men who had mpMRIs performed at a single centre and reported according to Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI‐RADS version 1) during this period to generate a sample size of 64 men. A Spearman's rho test was utilized to calculate correlation.

Results

Median age of patients was 64 years, the median prostate‐specific antigen at RP was 6.22 ng/mL. mpMRI was positive (≥PI‐RADS 3) in 85.9% of patients who underwent RP. More than 92% of participants had Gleason ≥7 disease. A positive relationship between mpMRI prostate PI‐RADS score and RP cancer volume was demonstrated. An anatomical location correlation calculated in octants was found to be 89.1% accurate.

Conclusion

mpMRI accurately detects prostate cancer location and severity when compared with gold standard histopathology at the time of RP. It thus has an important role in planning for future prostate biopsy and cancer treatment.
On the existence and constructions of orthogonal designs
Authors: Karunanayaka Ruwan C. , Tang Boxin
Published: September 2018

This paper presents some new results on orthogonal designs, which are a useful class of designs for computer experiments. We first establish a non‐existence result on orthogonal designs, generalising an earlier known result on orthogonal Latin hypercubes, and then present some construction results. By computer search, we obtain a collection of orthogonal designs with small run sizes. Using these results and existing methods in the literature, we compile a comprehensive catalogue of orthogonal designs for up to 100 runs.
Genetic deletion of ADP‐activated P2Y12 receptor ameliorates lithium‐induced nephrogenic diabetes insipidus in mice
Authors: Zhang Yue , Hansson Kenny M. , Liu Tao , Magnell Kerstin , Huang Yufeng , Carlson Noel G. , Kishore Bellamkonda K.
Published: September 2018

Aim

Therapeutic use of lithium in bipolar disorder is limited by the development of nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI). We reported that pharmacological blockade of P2Y12 receptor (R) with clopidogrel or prasugrel significantly ameliorated lithium‐induced NDI in rodents. Using mice genetically lacking P2Y12‐R we evaluated whether the observed amelioration is mediated through P2Y12‐R

Methods

P2ry12−/− mouse line (C57/BL6) was rederived from cryopreserved embryos of the knockout (KO) mice generated by Deltagen Inc. Syngeneic wild type (WT) mice obtained by heterozygous crossing were inbred. Groups of adult WT and KO mice were fed lithium‐added (40 mmol LiCl/kg food) or regular diet, and euthanized after 2 or 4 weeks. Twenty‐four hour urine samples and terminal blood and kidney samples were analyzed.

Results

At both time points, lithium‐induced polyuria and decrease in aquaporin‐2 (AQP2) protein abundance in the kidney medulla were less marked in KO vs WT mice. Immunofluorescence microscopy revealed that lithium‐induced alterations in the cellular disposition of AQP2 protein in the medullary collecting ducts of WT mice were blunted in KO mice. Serum lithium, sodium and osmolality were similar in both genotypes after lithium treatment. After 2 weeks, lithium induced marked increases in urinary excretion of Na, K, and arginine vasopressin in WT mice but not in KO mice.

Conclusion

Taken together, our data show that similar to pharmacological blockade, deletion of P2Y12‐R significantly ameliorates lithium‐induced NDI, without reducing serum lithium levels. Hence, targeting P2Y12‐R with currently available drugs in the market offers a novel and safer method for treating NDI.
Discovery of ancient mineral medicine in the Lv family tomb of the Northern Song dynasty (1074–1111 ce)
Authors: Gong Y. , Li C. , Zhang Y. , Gong D.
Published: September 2018

Ranked as one of the top 10 national archaeological discoveries in China in 2010, the Lv family tomb complex is the most intact and well‐preserved set of family tombs of the Northern Song dynasty excavated to date. Among the numerous exquisite artefacts recovered from the tomb was a sealed porcelain box containing residue. In this research, a multi‐analytical approach combining field‐emission scanning electron microscope energy‐dispersive spectrometry (SEM‐EDS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform‐infrared spectrometry (FTIR) with attenuated total reflection (ATR), and thermogravimetry (TGA) was employed to characterize the residue. Calomel (Hg2Cl2) and calcined stalactite/stalagmite were identified, and they presumably served as a traditional Chinese medicine for curing ‘Jiaoqi’ disease which is often referenced in contemporary historical texts. This paper provides the first direct evidence for minerals being used for medical purposes in ancient China, and also proves its medical effect for relieving the symptoms of Lv Qianrong's Jiaoqi disease. These findings further provide new clues for studying Chinese medical history.
Agreement of point‐of‐care prothrombin and activated partial thromboplastin time in dogs with a reference laboratory
Authors: Yang W , Hosgood G , Luobikis K , Paul A
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To determine the agreement, sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of prothrombin (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) using the point‐of‐care analyser SCA2000™ with IDEXX Coag Dx™ cartridges against a reference laboratory (STAGO Start 4®) in canine blood.

Methods

Citrated blood samples from 47 dogs were submitted for PT and aPTT measurements. The STAGO was taken as the gold standard and sensitivity, specificity and accuracy were calculated. Agreement between the IDEXX and STAGO test results was compared using Bland‐Altman analysis and Passing‐Bablok regression.

Results

The IDEXX cartridges had a sensitivity of 92% (95% confidence interval (CI) 62–100%) and specificity of 98% (95% CI 87–100%; n = 54 samples). aPTT sensitivity was 100% (95% CI 63–100%) and specificity was 47% (95% CI 30–65%, n = 42 samples). The accuracy of IDEXX cartridges compared with the STAGO Start 4 was 96% (95% CI 91–100%) for PT and 57% (95% CI 42–72%) for aPTT. Agreement was moderate–good for PT measurements within the reference range (RR). Agreement was poor for PT measurements outside of the RR and for aPTT measurements within and outside the RR. The bias between measurements from the two machines was inconsistent.

Conclusions

PT results from the point‐of‐care IDEXX were generally reliable for diagnosing or excluding a coagulopathy. The aPTT IDEXX sensitivity was excellent but the specificity was poor. Bland‐Altman analysis and Passing‐Bablok regression indicated an inconsistent bias between the two measurements and one measurement cannot be reliably converted to the other.
Sensitivity of epidermal growth factor receptor with single or double uncommon mutations to afatinib confirmed by a visual assay
Authors: Kimura Shinichi , Tanaka Kentaro , Harada Taishi , Liu Renpeng , Shibahara Daisuke , Kawano Yuko , Nakanishi Yoichi , Okamoto Isamu
Published: September 2018

Patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring common mutations of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are sensitive to EGFR‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI). Although forms of EGFR harboring single uncommon mutations such as G719X or L861Q are thought to be less sensitive to EGFR‐TKI, the efficacy of these drugs in patients with double uncommon mutations has remained unclear. We here present an NSCLC patient found to be positive for double uncommon EGFR mutations (G719X and L861Q) by clinical genomic sequencing analysis of a pleural effusion specimen who showed a durable response to the EGFR‐TKI afatinib. The sensitivity of EGFR with single or double uncommon mutations to afatinib and the EGFR‐TKI erlotinib was also evaluated in vitro with a visual assay based on HEK293 cells transiently transfected with expression plasmids for yellow fluorescent protein (YFP)‐tagged fragments of the EGFR intracellular domain (ICD). Whereas forms of EGFR with double uncommon mutations were more sensitive to erlotinib than were those with single uncommon mutations, those with single or double uncommon mutations were similarly sensitive to afatinib, consistent with the patient's clinical outcome. Our data support the notion that afatinib is the most suitable EGFR‐TKI for NSCLC harboring uncommon mutations of EGFR. Furthermore, the YFP‐EGFR‐ICD assay is potentially applicable to prediction of EGFR‐TKI efficacy in patients with such mutations.
Hairstreak butterflies (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae) and evolution of their male secondary sexual organs
Authors: Pereira Martins Ananda Regina , Duarte Marcelo , Robbins Robert K.
Published: September 2018

Hairstreak butterflies in the Atlides Section of the Eumaeini are biologically notable for a diverse array of male secondary sexual organs. A “species recognition” hypothesis postulates that females use these organs to choose between conspecific and non‐conspecific males, thereby promoting reproductive isolation. Alternately, a “sexual selection” hypothesis posits that females use these organs to choose among conspecific males. These hypotheses need not be mutually exclusive but make different predictions about the evolutionary gain and loss of male secondary sexual organs. We analysed most of the Atlides Section (Theclinae, Eumaeini) phylogenetically. Sister lineages were sympatric at 22 of 37 nodes. Nine evolutionary gains occurred in lineages that were sympatric with their phylogenetic sister, and one occurred in a lineage that was allopatric/parapatric with its sister. By contrast, seven of ten evolutionary losses occurred in lineages that were allopatric/parapatric with their sisters. These results are significantly different from those predicted by a sexual selection hypothesis. We conclude that male secondary sexual organs in the Atlides Section function primarily for species recognition and thereby promote sympatric diversification.
The ephemerality of secondary forests in southern Costa Rica
Authors: Reid J. Leighton , Fagan Matthew E. , Lucas James , Slaughter Joshua , Zahawi Rakan A.
Published: September 2018

Secondary forests are increasingly recognized for conserving biodiversity and mitigating global climate change, but these and other desired outcomes can only be achieved after decades of regeneration, and secondary forests are frequently recleared before they recover to predisturbance conditions. We used a time series of aerial photographs (1947‐2014) to evaluate multidecadal persistence of secondary forests across a 320 km2 landscape in southern Costa Rica. Secondary forests had relatively short lifespans, with 50% recleared within 20 years and 85% recleared within 54 years of when they were first observed. Larger forest fragments and forests near rivers had a lower reclearance hazard, but forest persistence did not differ over time, indicating that regional forest regeneration may be generally ephemeral. Costa Rica has made an international commitment to restore 1 million ha of degraded land by 2020. Depending on how this is achieved, only half that target may remain forested by 2040.
In memoriam: Fine‐needle aspiration, birth: Fine‐needle biopsy: The changing trend in endoscopic ultrasound‐guided tissue acquisition
Authors: Bang Ji Young , Kirtane Sachin , Krall Konrad , Navaneethan Udayakumar , Hasan Muhammad , Hawes Robert , Varadarajulu Shyam
Published: September 2018

Background and Aim

Fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) cytology has been the preferred technique for procuring tissue at endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) procedures for the past 25 years. To overcome some of the limitations of FNA cytology, fine‐needle biopsy (FNB) has been recently developed to yield histological tissue. Main objective was to compare the diagnostic yield of FNB compared to FNA for both onsite and offsite specimen assessment.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted at a single tertiary referral center to evaluate the outcomes of FNA and FNB over a 4‐year period. EUS‐guided tissue sampling was carried out using 22‐ or 25‐G FNA needles from 2014 to 2015, and 22‐G FNB needle was used from 2016 to 2017.

Results

Of 3020 patients undergoing EUS‐guided sampling of solid mass lesions (pancreatic masses 71.3%, other lesions 28.7%), FNA was carried out in 68.9% and FNB in 31.1%. Median number of passes required for diagnostic adequacy on rapid onsite evaluation was significantly lower for FNB compared to FNA (1 [IQR: 1–2] vs 2 [IQR 1–3], P < 0.001). Diagnostic yield on cell block was also significantly superior with FNB compared to FNA (92.3 vs 71.1%, P < 0.001). The superior performance of FNB over FNA was observed for both pancreatic (P < 0.001) and non‐pancreatic lesions (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Given these promising findings, in the future, EUS‐guided FNB will likely be the preferred technique for sampling of solid mass lesions.
Bending the rules: exploitation of allochthonous resources by a top‐predator modifies size‐abundance scaling in stream food webs
Authors: Perkins Daniel M. , Durance Isabelle , Edwards Francois K. , Grey Jonathan , Hildrew Alan G. , Jackson Michelle , Jones J. Iwan , Lauridsen Rasmus B. , Layer‐Dobra Katrin , Thompson Murray S. A. , Woodward Guy
Published: September 2018

Body mass–abundance (M‐N) allometries provide a key measure of community structure, and deviations from scaling predictions could reveal how cross‐ecosystem subsidies alter food webs. For 31 streams across the UK, we tested the hypothesis that linear log‐logM‐Nscaling is shallower than that predicted by allometric scaling theory when top predators have access to allochthonous prey. These streams all contained a common and widespread top predator (brown trout) that regularly feeds on terrestrial prey and, as hypothesised, deviations from predicted scaling increased with its dominance of the fish assemblage. Our study identifies a key beneficiary of cross‐ecosystem subsidies at the top of stream food webs and elucidates how these inputs can reshape the size‐structure of these ‘open’ systems.