bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The bilingual tomb inscription from Mleiha, Sharjah, UAE—palaeographical and philological remarks
Authors: Multhoff Anne , Stein Peter
Published: May 2018

The Aramaic‐Hasaitic bilingual tomb inscription from Mleiha published inArabian Archaeology and Epigraphy27 (2016) is one of the most important epigraphic discoveries from the entire Gulf region. The inscription, which is in an extraordinarily good state of preservation, is not only one of the most comprehensive texts from the region in terms of its languages and scripts, but also provides unique historical information. It contains the first ever reference to a kingdom of Oman and is probably dated to the Seleucid era, about the year 222/221 or 215/214 BCE (Overlaet, Macdonald & Stein,). Within two years of its publication, epigraphic research in Mleiha and beyond has yielded some new results which contribute to an improved perception of this extraordinary inscription. These mainly concern the palaeography of the Aramaic script, including the modified reading of some letters, the use of the wordbrfor ‘son’, and the historical background of the functionary titlebqrin the Hasaitic version. Finally, reference is made to some more epigraphic artefacts from Mleiha which are suitable for re‐evaluating the historic importance of the site.
Mitochondrial unfolded protein response gene Clpp is required to maintain ovarian follicular reserve during aging, for oocyte competence, and development of pre‐implantation embryos
Authors: Wang Tianren , Babayev Elnur , Jiang Zongliang , Li Guangxin , Zhang Man , Esencan Ecem , Horvath Tamas , Seli Emre
Published: May 2018

Caseinolytic peptidase P mediates degradation of unfolded mitochondrial proteins and activates mitochondrial unfolded protein response (mtUPR) to maintain protein homeostasis. Clpp−/− female mice generate a lower number of mature oocytes and two‐cell embryos, and no blastocysts. Clpp−/− oocytes have smaller mitochondria, with lower aspect ratio (length/width), and decreased expression of genes that promote fusion. A 4‐fold increase in atretic follicles at 3 months, and reduced number of primordial follicles at 6–12 months are observed in Clpp−/− ovaries. This is associated with upregulation of p‐S6, p‐S6K, p‐4EBP1 and p‐AKT473, p‐mTOR2481 consistent with mTORC1 and mTORC2 activation, respectively, and Clpp−/− oocyte competence is partially rescued by mTOR inhibitor rapamycin. Our findings demonstrate that CLPP is required for oocyte and embryo development and oocyte mitochondrial function and dynamics. Absence of CLPP results in mTOR pathway activation, and accelerated depletion of ovarian follicular reserve.
Strategic national approach for improving the conservation management of insects and allied invertebrates in Australia
Authors: Taylor Gary S , Braby Michael F , Moir Melinda L , Harvey Mark S , Sands Don P A , New Tim R , Kitching Roger L , McQuillan Peter B , Hogendoorn Katja , Glatz Richard V , Andren Mick , Cook James M , Henry Shasta C , Valenzuela Isabel , Weinstein Phil
Published: May 2018

Despite progress in recent decades, the conservation management of insects and allied invertebrates in Australia is challenging and remains a formidable task against a background of poor taxonomic and biological knowledge, limited resources (funds and scientific expertise) and a relatively low level of community engagement, education and awareness. In this review, we propose a new, strategic national approach for the conservation of insects and allied invertebrates in Australia to complement and build on existing actions and increase awareness with the general public and government. A review of all species listed under relevant State and Territory Acts, national legislation (EPBC Act) and on international lists (IUCN Red List) indicated that of the 285 species currently listed under these conservation schedules, 10 (3%) are considered extinct, 204 (72%) threatened (Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable) and 71 (25%) are classified as other (Threatened, Near Threatened, Rare or Least Concern). Comparison of the geographic ranges of listed species in relation to bioregions (IBRA regions) shows a striking discordance in spatial representation across the Australian landscape, reflecting an ad hoc approach to threatened species conservation and the concentration of invertebrate biologists in urban centres of temperate coastal Australia. There is a positive relationship between the number of threatened species and extent of protection according to the National Reserve System within each IBRA region, exemplifying the anomaly in spatial representativeness of listed species. To overcome these shortfalls, we propose a novel educational, regional approach based on selecting, for each of the 89 IBRA regions, a relatively small set of ‘flagship taxa’ (threatened species and/or ‘iconic’ species of high scientific/social value), which are then promoted and/or nominated for listing by the scientific community. Such species could be adopted by local community groups whereby a community‐based regional approach would ensure spatial representativeness of insect conservation across the entire Australian continent. This novel approach may ultimately provide a better strategy for the conservation management of habitats and threatened ecological communities, reducing extinction risk of threatened species and addressing key threatening processes. Members of the Australian entomological community are strongly encouraged to nominate candidate taxa as flagship species for wider promotion and/or listing nationally under the EPBC Act.
Four Stories, a Lament, and an Affirmation
Authors: Waterston Alisse
Published: May 2018

The following is the text of the presidential address presented on December 2, 2017, at the 116th Annual Meeting of the American Anthropological Association in Washington, DC. I took the opportunity of this talk to reflect on this moment of being in anthropology. No doubt these are dark times, which prompts my questions: “What of us, as anthropologists, in these times? How will we pass the time that is given us?” Referring back to and in dialogue with Hannah Arendt and Bertolt Brecht, I consider some meanings of being introspective, of thinking in dark times, of the trivial, and of envisioning an alternative world, as these relate to anthropology. Comprising the four stories of the title, this reflection embraces deep feelings and the great promise of the discipline. [radical evil, dark anthropology, resistance, introspection, thinking, anthropological knowledge, Arendt, Brecht]
Editorial: de novo inflammatory bowel disease following bariatric surgery—potential implications for research and clinical practice
Authors: Alukaidey S. , Heerasing N.
Published: May 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Ungaro et al and Ungaro and Colombel papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14569 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14667.
Editorial: von Willebrand factor and CRP levels may predict survival in liver cirrhosis—Authors’ reply
Authors: Mandorfer M. , Reiberger T. , Ferlitsch A. ,   the Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab
Published: May 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Mandorfer et al and Merli and Di Gregorio papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14522 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14587.
Letter: tacrolimus may be hazardous in decompensated autoimmune liver disease with hyperbilirubinaemia
Authors: Shen Y. , Fan X. , Yang X. , Yang L.
Published: May 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Liberal et al and de Boer et al papers. To view thse articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.13907 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14651.
Letter: association between proton pump inhibitor use and fracture risk ‐ causality or confounding?
Authors: Sugiyama T.
Published: May 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Torvinen‐Kiiskinen et al paper. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14589.
Editorial: gastrointestinal safety of COX‐2 selective and nonselective NSAIDs—the impact of the PRECISION trial
Authors: Laine L.
Published: May 2018

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This article is linked to Yeomans et al and Yeomans and Graham papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14610 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14656.
Letter: tacrolimus may be hazardous in decompensated autoimmune liver disease with hyperbilirubinemia—authors’ reply
Authors: de Boer Y. S. , Liberal R. , Heneghan M. A.
Published: May 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Liberal et al and Shen et al papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.13907 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14630.
Editorial: gastrointestinal safety of COX‐2 selective and nonselective NSAIDs—the impact of the PRECISION trial. Authors’ reply
Authors: Yeomans N. D. , Graham D. Y.
Published: May 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Yeomans et al and Laine papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14610 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14642.
Editorial: preventing unnecessary investigation and surgery in the irritable bowel syndrome—the critical role of the general practitioner
Authors: Whorwell P. J.
Published: May 2018

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This article is linked to Clevers et al paper. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14612.
Editorial: an expert consensus for the management of chronic hepatitis B in Asian Americans—Authors’ reply
Authors: Tong M. J. , Pan C. Q.
Published: May 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Tong et al and Ebel and Rosenthal papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14577 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14620.
Editorial: measuring hypervigilance and anxiety in oesophageal disorders
Authors: Patel A. , Gyawali C. P.
Published: May 2018

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This article is linked to Taft et al paper. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14605.
Editorial: platelet transfusions in cirrhosis—do the risks outweigh the unclear benefits? Authors’ reply
Authors: Støy S. , Shawcross D. L.
Published: May 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Støy et al and Patel and Muir papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14600 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14654.
Serological markers of extracellular matrix remodeling predict transplant‐free survival in primary sclerosing cholangitis
Authors: Nielsen M. J. , Thorburn D. , Leeming D. J. , Hov J. R. , Nygård S. , Moum B. , Saffioti F. , Gilja O. H. , Boberg K. M. , Mazza G. , Røsjø H. , Pinzani M. , Karlsen T. H. , Karsdal M. A. , Vesterhus M.
Published: May 2018

Background

Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a progressive liver disease with a remarkably variable course. Biomarkers of disease activity or prognostic models predicting outcome at an individual level are currently not established.

Aim

To evaluate the prognostic utility of four biomarkers of basement membrane and interstitial extracellular matrix remodeling in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis.

Methods

Serum samples were available from 138 large‐duct primary sclerosing cholangitis patients (of which 102 [74%] with IBD) recruited 2008‐2012 and 52 ulcerative colitis patients (controls). The median follow‐up time was 2.2 (range 0‐4.3) years. Specific biomarkers of type III and V collagen formation (PRO‐C3 and PRO‐C5, respectively) and type III and IV collagen degradation (C3M and C4M, respectively) were assessed. The Enhanced Liver Fibrosis test, including procollagen type III N‐terminal peptide, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐1 and hyaluronic acid was assessed for comparison.

Results

All markers were elevated in primary sclerosing cholangitis compared to ulcerative colitis patients (P < 0.001). PRO‐C3 showed the largest difference between the two groups with a threefold increase in primary sclerosing cholangitis compared to ulcerative colitis patients. Patients with high baseline serum levels of all markers, except C3M, had shorter survival compared to patients with low baseline serum levels (P < 0.001). Combining PRO‐C3 and PRO‐C5 the odds ratio for predicting transplant‐free survival was 47 compared to the Enhanced Liver Fibrosis test's odds ratio of 11.

Conclusions

Extracellular matrix remodeling is elevated in primary sclerosing cholangitis patients compared to ulcerative colitis patients. Furthermore, the interstitial matrix marker PRO‐C3 was identified as a potent prognostic marker and an independent predictor of transplant‐free survival in primary sclerosing cholangitis.
Orientation of the Romanesque churches in the region of Val d’Aran, Spain (11th–13th centuries)
Authors: Lluis i Ginovart J. , López‐Piquer M. , Coll‐Pla S. , Costa‐Jover A. , Urbano‐Lorente J.
Published: May 2018

This study examines an ensemble of Romanesque churches in the region of Val d’Aran in the Spanish Pyrenees, built between the 11th and 13th centuries. Seven topographical studies performed between 2014 and 2015 examined these churches systematically using terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) as a data‐acquisition technique. The data obtained allowed for a geometrically accurate analysis of the orientation of these churches based on four Romanesque liturgies: Gemma animae (c.1120), by Honorius of Autun; Rationale divinorum officiorum (c.1150), by Jean Beleth; Mitralis de Officio (1190), by Sicard, Bishop of Cremona; and Prochiron, vulgo rationale divinorum officiorum (1291), by Guillaume Durand.
Effects of tributyrin supplementation on ruminal microbial protein yield, fermentation characteristics and nutrients degradability in adult Small Tail ewes
Authors: Ren Qing‐Chang , Xuan Jing‐Jing , Wang Li‐Ke , Zhan Qiu‐Wen , Yin Ding‐Zhong , Hu Zhong‐Ze , Yang Hong‐Jian , Zhang Wei , Jiang Lin‐Shu
Published: May 2018

Two trials were conducted to assess the effects of tributyrin (TB) supplementation on ruminal microbial protein yield and fermentation characteristics in adult sheep. In an in vitro trial, substrate was made to offer TB at 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 g/kg on a dry matter (DM) basis and incubated for 48 hr. In an in vivo trial, 45 adult ewes were randomly assigned by initial body weight (55 ± 5 kg) to five treatments of nine animals over an 18‐day period. Total mixed ration was made to offer TB to ewes at 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 g/kg on a DM basis. The in vitro trial showed that TB enhanced apparent degradation of DM (p = .009), crude protein (p < .001), neutral detergent fiber (p = .007) and acid detergent fiber (p = .010) and increased methanogenesis (p < .001), respectively. The in vivo trial showed that TB decreased DM intake (p < .001) and enhanced rumen microbial N synthesis (p < .001), respectively. Both in vitro and in vivo trials showed that TB increased total volatile fatty acid concentration and enhanced fibrolytic enzyme activity. The results indicated that TB might exert positive effects on microbial protein yield and fermentation in the rumen.
First detection of bovine noroviruses and detection of bovine coronavirus in Australian dairy cattle
Authors: Symes SJ , Allen JL , Mansell PD , Woodward KL , Bailey KE , Gilkerson JR , Browning GF
Published: May 2018

Background and objective

Noroviruses have been recognised as a significant cause of neonatal enteritis in calves in many countries, but there has been no investigation of their occurrence in Australian cattle. This study aimed to establish whether bovine noroviruses could be detected in faecal samples from Australian dairy cattle. It also sought to determine whether bovine coronaviruses, also associated with neonatal enteritis in calves, could be detected in the same faecal samples.

Methods

A selection of faecal samples that were negative for rotaviruses from dairy farms located in three geographically distinct regions of Victoria were pooled and tested by reverse transcription‐PCR for the presence of noroviruses (genogroup III), neboviruses and bovine coronaviruses.

Results and conclusion

Genetically distinct genogroup III noroviruses were detected in two sample pools from different geographic regions and bovine coronavirus was detected in a third pool of samples. This is the first report of bovine norovirus infection in Australian cattle and suggests that future work is required to determine the significance of these agents as a cause of bovine enteric disease in Australia.
Sudden death of a crossbred calf associated with a myocardial adenomatoid tumour
Authors: Slocombe RF
Published: May 2018

The only lesion found in a crossbred calf that died suddenly was a rare tumour in the myocardium of the left ventricle. The mass appeared similar to tumours discovered incidentally in the hearts of abattoir specimens in Italy, described as adenomatoid tumours. These are bimorphic tumours presumed to have a mesothelial origin.

Although in a published study from Italy these tumours were considered incidental and clinically unimportant, I suggest that in this case the mass may have interfered with cardiac conduction, causing sudden death of the calf.
Cognition, emotion, and arithmetic in primary school: A cross‐cultural investigation
Authors: Rodic Maja , Cui Jiaxin , Malykh Sergey , Zhou Xinlin , Gynku Elena I. , Bogdanova Elena L. , Zueva Dina Y. , Y. Bogdanova Olga , Kovas Yulia
Published: May 2018

The study investigated cross‐cultural differences in variability and average performance in arithmetic, mathematical reasoning, symbolic and non‐symbolic magnitude processing, intelligence, spatial ability, and mathematical anxiety in 890 6‐ to 9‐year‐old children from the United Kingdom, Russia, and China. Cross‐cultural differences explained 28% of the variance in arithmetic and 17.3% of the variance in mathematical reasoning, with Chinese children outperforming the other two groups. No cross‐cultural differences were observed for spatial ability and mathematical anxiety. In all samples, symbolic magnitude processing and mathematical reasoning were independently related to early arithmetic. Other factors, such as non‐symbolic magnitude processing, mental rotation, intelligence, and mathematical anxiety, produced differential patterns across the populations. The results are discussed in relation to potential influences of parental practice, school readiness, and linguistic factors on individual differences in early mathematics.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Cross‐cultural differences in mathematical ability are present in preschool children.

Similar mechanisms of mathematical development operate in preschool children from the United Kingdom, Russia, and China.

Tasks that require understanding of numbers are best predictors of arithmetic in preschool children.

What does this study add?

Cross‐cultural differences in mathematical ability become greater with age/years of formal education.

Similar mechanisms of mathematical development operate in early primary school children from the United Kingdom, Russia, and China.

Symbolic number magnitude and mathematical reasoning are the main predictors of arithmetic in all three populations.
Leafing patterns and leaf exchange strategies of a cerrado woody community
Authors: de Camargo Maria Gabriela Gutierrez , de Carvalho Gustavo Henrique , Alberton Bruna de Costa , Reys Paula , Morellato Leonor Patrícia Cerdeira
Published: May 2018

The deciduousness of tropical trees and communities depend on ecosystems characteristics such as plant species diversity, and strength of the dry season. Based on seven years of phenological observations, we provide the first long‐term description of leafing patterns of a woody cerrado community, aiming to investigate (1) the leaf exchange strategies considering the interannual variation in the degree of deciduousness of individuals and species and quantify the community deciduousness; (2) the relationship between interannual patterns of leaf fall and leaf flush according to the species’ leaf exchange strategies and climate; (3) the onset of cerrado growing season and its relation to climate seasonality. To detect seasonality and leafing onset we applied circular statistics and to understand the relationships between environmental predictors and leaf exchange strategies, we used generalized additive models. From 106 species observed, we classified 69 as deciduous (26 species), semi‐deciduous (25) or evergreen (18) and defined the studied cerrado as a semi‐deciduous vegetation. Leaf phenology was markedly seasonal and similar among years. Leaf fall peaked in the dry season, and leaf flush in the dry‐to‐wet transition. Leaf fall patterns related to temperature and leaf flush to day length and rainfall. Semi‐deciduous and deciduous species were more constrained by climate than the evergreen ones. The cerrado growing season started in the dry‐to‐wet season transition. Interannual variations in rainfall and temperature affected the individuals’ and, consequently, species’ degree of deciduousness, highlighting individual and species variability, and suggesting that cerrado leafing patterns are likely susceptible to future climate change scenarios.
Rethinking tropical phenology: insights from long‐term monitoring and novel analytical methods
Authors: Morellato Leonor Patricia Cerdeira , Abernethy Katharine , Mendoza Irene
Published: May 2018

Here, we introduce the Special Section (SS) on long‐term monitoring and new analytical methods in tropical phenology. The SS puts together nine original papers plus a synthesis, bringing significant advances and new insights into our understanding of tropical phenology across Africa and tropical America. The papers address environmental cues, methodological shortcomings, and provide innovative analytical approaches, opening new pathways, perspective and applications of tropical phenology for forest management and environmental monitoring. The SS is a substantial step toward a more comprehensive overview of trends in tropical phenology, as seven of nine studies evaluate >10‐yr data sets applying new methods of analysis such as hierarchical Bayesian models, generalized additive models, and Fourier analysis. We argue that it is essential to maintain ongoing monitoring programs and build a tropical phenology network at least for long‐term (>10 yr) study sites, providing the means for national and international financial support. Cross‐continental comparisons are now a primary goal, as we work toward a global vision of trends and shifts in tropical phenology in the Anthropocene.
Fruiting phenology is linked to rainfall variability in a tropical rain forest
Authors: Dunham Amy E. , Razafindratsima Onja H. , Rakotonirina Paul , Wright Patricia C.
Published: May 2018

As the influence of climate change on tropical forests becomes apparent, more studies are needed to understand how changes in climatic variables such as rainfall are likely to affect tree phenology. Using a twelve‐year dataset (2005–2016), we studied the impact of seasonal rainfall patterns on the fruiting phenology of 69 tree species in the rain forest of southeastern Madagascar. We found that average annual rainfall in this region has increased by >800 mm (23%) during this period relative to that recorded for the previous 40 years and was highly variable both within and between years. Higher monthly measures of fruiting richness and the intensity of fruiting in our sample community were associated with significantly higher levels of rainfall. We also found that less rainfall during the dry season, but not the wet season, was associated with a significant shift toward later timing of peak richness and peak intensity of fruiting in the subsequent 12 months; however, this pattern was driven primarily by an extreme drought event that occurred during the study period. Longer time scales of phenology data are needed to see whether this pattern is consistent. Madagascar is expected to experience more extremes in rainfall and drought with increasing climate change. Thus, the linkages between variable precipitation and the fruiting phenology of forest trees will have important consequences for understanding plant reproduction and the ability of Madagascar's wildlife to cope with a changing climate.
Thyrotoxicosis after iodine fortification. A 21‐year Danish population‐based study
Authors: Petersen Mads , Knudsen Nils , Carlé Allan , Andersen Stig , Jørgensen Torben , Perrild Hans , Ovesen Lars , Rasmussen Lone Banke , Thuesen Betina Heinsbæk , Pedersen Inge Bülow
Published: May 2018

Objective

Monitoring the influence of cautious iodine fortification (IF) on the incidence rate of overt thyrotoxicosis in Denmark with formerly frequent multinodular toxic goitre.

Design

A 21‐year (1997‐2017) prospective population‐based study identified all new cases of overt biochemical thyrotoxicosis in two open cohorts: a Western cohort with moderate iodine deficiency (ID) and an Eastern cohort with mild ID (total n = 533 969 by 1 January 1997). A diagnostic algorithm was applied to all thyroid function tests performed within the study areas. Mandatory IF of salt was initiated in mid‐2000 (13 ppm). This study is a part of DanThyr.

Results

The standardized incidence rate (SIR) of thyrotoxicosis at baseline (1997‐1998) was 128.5/100.000/year in the cohort with moderate ID and 80.1 in the cohort with mild ID. SIR increased markedly in both cohorts during the initial years of IF (moderate/mild ID: +39/+52% in 2000‐2001/2004‐2005) and subsequently decreased to baseline level (mild ID) or below (moderate ID) by 2008. The decline was due to a marked decrease in the incidence rate among elderly subjects and a moderate decrease among the middle aged. The follow‐up period for the mildly iodine deficient cohort was restricted to 2008. A continuous decline in SIR was observed for the remainder of the study period in the area with moderate ID (33% below baseline in 2016‐2017).

Conclusion

The rise in thyrotoxicosis incidence with cautious mandatory IF returned to baseline level after 7‐8 years and levelled out at 33% below baseline in the population with previously moderate ID after 16‐17 years.
Animal models of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Authors: Iijima Masahiro
Published: May 2018

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is characterized by a relapsing or chronic progressive course and immune‐mediating pathogenesis targeting the peripheral nervous system. The prevalence rate of CIDP is 1.6 to eight cases per 100 000 people, and the disorder is predominant among males. Immune‐modulating therapies, such as intravenous immunoglobulin, corticosteroids and plasmapheresis, are equally effective in classical CIDP. However, the pathogenesis of CIDP is heterogeneous, and atypical variants have been recognized as poor or non‐responders to these therapeutic approaches. For example, immunoglobulin G4 autoantibodies targeting paranodal molecules (neurofascin‐155, contactin‐1 and Caspr‐1) are thought to be involved in patients with unique findings (distal dominant and sensory ataxia with postural tremor, and non‐responders to intravenous immunoglobulin). Thus, it is necessary to decompose each immunological background to develop novel therapeutic approaches. Importantly, animal models for immune‐mediated neuropathies have provided substantial information about autoimmune mechanisms. The traditional experimental autoimmune neuritis model of acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy and a recent variety of spontaneous autoimmune polyneuropathy models based on non‐obese diabetes mice have provided valuable knowledge about the chronicity of immunopathogenesis. Here, we describe the representative subtypes of CIDP and their presumed pathogenesis, and discuss animal models that could extend understanding of this diversity.
Enrichment of rare copy number variation in children with developmental language disorder
Authors: Kalnak N. , Stamouli S. , Peyrard‐Janvid M. , Rabkina I. , Becker M. , Klingberg T. , Kere J. , Forssberg H. , Tammimies K.
Published: May 2018

Developmental language disorder (DLD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder with largely unknown etiology. Rare copy number variants (CNVs) have been implicated in the genetic architecture of other neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), which have led to clinical genetic testing recommendations for these disorders; however, the evidence is still lacking for DLD. We analyzed rare and de novo CNVs in 58 probands with severe DLD, their 159 family members and 76 Swedish typically developing children using high‐resolution microarray. DLD probands had larger rare CNVs as measured by total length (P = .05), and average length (P = .04). In addition, the rate of rare CNVs overlapping coding genes was increased (P = .03 and P = .01) and in average more genes were affected (P = .006 and P = .03) in the probands and their siblings, respectively. De novo CNVs were found in 4.8% DLD probands (2/42) and 2.4% (1/42) siblings. Clinically significant CNVs or chromosomal anomalies were found in 6.9% (4/58) of the probands of which 2 carried 16p11.2 deletions. We provide further evidence that rare CNVs contribute to the etiology of DLD in loci that overlap with other NDDs. Based on our results and earlier literature, families with DLD should be offered molecular genetic testing as a routine in their clinical follow‐up.
Session 1: Colon cancer – 10 years behind the rectum
Authors: Tudyka V. , Madoff R. , Wale A. , Laurberg S. , Yano H. , Brown G.
Published: May 2018

The improvements in surgical technique brought about by the widespread adoption of total mesorectal excision plane dissection in rectal cancer has substantially improved survival and recurrence rates from this disease. For the first time in 50 years, the outcomes in rectal cancer have overtaken those of colon cancer. Professor Madoff's overview lecture and the experts’ round table discussion address whether applying the surgical principles already achieved in rectal cancer can meet with similar success in colon cancer, how this can be achieved and the challenges we face.
Colon cancer surgery: pathological quality control is essential for optimal outcomes
Authors: West Nicholas P. , Quirke Philip
Published: May 2018

Following Professor Madoff's overview lecture and the experts’ round table discussion Dr West and Professor Quirke provide a commentary of the major gains which could be made by improving and standardizing the quality of colon cancer surgery.
Session 3: Beyond the boundaries of Total Mesorectal Excision – where surgeons fear to tread
Authors: Patel A. , Holm T. , Wale A. , Rutten H. , Nicholls J. , Hawkins M. , Steele R. J. C. , Marks J. , Brown G.
Published: May 2018

Approximately 10–15% of patients present with an advanced rectal cancer that extends beyond the conventional total mesorectal excision (TME) planes. In such cases extending the surgery to ensure resection with clear margins (R0 resection) is essential in order to achieve long‐term cure. Professor Holm describes the techniques of beyond‐TME exenterative surgery, the methods of patient selection and outcomes.
Possible impact of immunosuppressive therapy regimens on histopathologic outcomes of abnormal uterine bleeding in solid‐organ transplant recipients
Authors: Tohma Yusuf Aytac , Akilli Huseyin , Kirnap Mahir , Haberal Asuman Nihan , Akyel Dilan , Zengin Hatice Yagmur , Zeyneloglu Hulusi Bulent , Kuscu Esra , Ayhan Ali , Haberal Mehmet
Published: May 2018

Background

In this study, we aimed to determine the frequency of histopathologic outcomes of solid‐organ transplantation in women with abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) receiving immunosuppressive therapies.

Methods

This is a retrospective study including a single‐center experience. Data were extracted from hospital records, and solid‐organ transplant recipients who were diagnosed with AUB were included.

Results

Fifty‐five of these patients were renal transplant recipients (79.7%), and 14 were liver transplant recipients (20.3%). Histopathologic examination showed various histopathologic patterns of endometrium in patients with AUB consisting of normal histopathologic findings of endometrium in 31 patients (48.4%); 29 hormonal imbalance during proliferative and secretory phases of menstrual cycle and two atrophic endometrium. Endometrial hyperplasia without atypia was observed in 11 patients (17.2%). Polyp was seen in 22 patients (34.4%); 21 endometrial polyp and one endocervical polyp. There were significant differences in terms of histopathologic findings among the three groups of patients according to different immunosuppressive regimens (P = .029). There was no endometrial hyperplasia in women receiving sirolimus‐based immunosuppressive regimens. Moreover, there was no endometrial hyperplasia in the liver transplant recipient group.

Conclusions

Sirolimus‐based immunosuppressive regimens may be administered to patients who have risk factors for endometrial precancerous lesions, such as endometrial hyperplasia. However, additional well‐designed, large‐scale studies are warranted to confirm our findings.
Heritage Education in The Archaeological Sites. An Identity Approach in The Museum of Calatayud
Authors: Rivero Pilar , Fontal Merillas Olaia , García‐Ceballos Silvia , Martínez Rodríguez Marta
Published: May 2018

The present paper reports on a case study performed on the Museum of Calatayud's educational program where the latter is showcased as a didactic model for the museumization of archaeological remains in the Iberian Peninsula (museum and site). This research has been developed by the Spanish Heritage Education Observatory (SHEO) in conjunction with the University of Zaragoza's CIVITAS project. The study shows a qualitative approach and is based on the comprehensive evaluation of the program's educational design and implementation resulting from a previous analysis of a sample consisting of N = 223 educational programs on archeological heritage. The evaluation has been conducted by using the SHEO method, whose aim is to gain deeper insights into educational practices by means of a standards‐based assessment of their underlying designs. Following the results of this study, the Museum of Calatayud appears as a clear benchmark: an institution that stands out because of its holistic conception and an approach that addresses issues of symbolism and identity in order to raise the population's awareness of its legacy and the importance of education inspired by heritage‐related values of respect and protection. Our research enables us to draw up a decalogue of key actions which we do not mean to be transferable to other contexts, but rather to provide an example or a starting point for future educational designs and implementations by the museum community and heritage institutions.
Handle with Care! A Qualitative Comparison of the Fragile States Index's Bottom Three Countries: Central African Republic, Somalia and South Sudan
Authors: Glawion Tim , de Vries Lotje , Mehler Andreas
Published: May 2018

For the past four years, the Fund for Peace has ranked the Central African Republic, Somalia and South Sudan as the ‘most fragile states’ in the world, in its annual Fragile States Index (FSI). The three countries’ almost identical scores suggest comparability; however, critics raise concerns about the FSI's data aggregation methods, and its conflation of causes and consequences. This article treads the uncharted path of unpacking the empirical realities that hide behind FSI indicators. Drawing on data collected during field research in the three states, the authors investigate three security indicators (security apparatus, factionalized elites, and external intervention) and propose an alternative, qualitative appreciation. Each country's fragility is based on how security forces, elites and interventions evolved over time and installed themselves differently in each region of the country. The qualitative assessment presented here shows that not every indicator matters in all cases at all times or throughout the country. Most crucially, the authors unveil enormous differences between and within the FSI's three ‘most fragile states’. Such variations call for better‐adapted and more flexible intervention strategies, and for quantitative comparisons to be qualitatively grounded.
The Invisible Hand that Rocks the Cradle: On the Limits of Time Use Surveys
Authors: Lentz Erin , Bezner Kerr Rachel , Patel Raj , Dakishoni Laifolo , Lupafya Esther
Published: May 2018

Almost every intervention in the field of international agricultural development — from microcredit finance to fertilizer subsidies to trade policy — has come to recognize gender, and relationships within households, as important. Yet most interventions continue to treat the household as a ‘black box’, with changes within the household measured by the effects on income, anthropometry, health, or other secondary metrics within bargaining models. In this context, there has been increasing interest in time use studies as a way to peer inside this black box. This article offers a review of methods and identifies some of the difficulties facing time use studies in capturing intrahousehold dynamics, and presents the results of a two‐season simultaneous activity time use study in Malawi which aimed to address these difficulties. The results suggest significant limitations to time use surveys. The kinds of reproductive labour that often interest researchers may be invisible to the women responding to time use surveys, with the result that care work is dramatically under‐reported. The authors discuss the implications of the divergence between researchers’ concerns and the women's reports of their lives for time use surveys, and for feminist development research methods more broadly.
Exploring personality in Australian dentistry students: Implications for coping with a challenging degree
Authors: Stormon N. , Ford P. J. , Eley D. S.
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Dentistry is known to be a challenging degree and students are often under considerable academic pressure which may lead to stress and difficulties in coping. Personality influences coping ability, yet very little is known about the personality traits of dentistry students. This study aimed to describe the personality profiles of students enrolled in an Australian undergraduate dental degree.

Methods

Students enrolled in year one and two of the undergraduate dental programme at The University of Queensland were invited to complete an online survey which included the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI). Personality was measured by four dimensions of temperament: Novelty Seeking, Harm Avoidance, Reward Dependence and Persistence; and three‐character traits: Self‐Directedness, Cooperativeness and Self‐Transcendence. Data analysis was mostly descriptive, and t tests and univariate statistics compared groups.

Results

Participants (n = 134; 97% response rate; females = 51%) were generally single, spoke another language at home and lived in shared accommodation. The majority (55%) were 20‐29 years old, and 40% were international students. The sample had average levels of all TCI traits, except for Cooperativeness which was high.

Conclusions

This sample of dentistry students portrayed a profile of temperament and character similar to profiles of other health profession students with the intellectual ability and drives to undertake a competitive and challenging degree. Longitudinal studies are needed to track changes in personality throughout the degree. This would provide insight into how and when to best support students.
Restoring grassy woodland diversity through direct seeding: Insights from six ‘best‐practice’ case studies in southern Australia
Authors: Cuneo Peter , Gibson‐Roy Paul , Fifield Graham , Broadhurst Linda , Berryman Tim , Crawford Andrew , Freudenberger David
Published: May 2018

Ecological restoration of grassy woodland ecosystems is now a significant landscape‐scale conservation objective throughout southern Australia. Technological improvements in direct seeding are now sufficiently well‐advanced to examine whether cost‐effective restoration of grassy woodlands is feasible. Consideration of six ‘best practice case studies shows substantial evidence of success. Further refinement of direct seeding techniques, in combination with native seed production systems, however, will be required into the future to meet the scale of woodland conservation targets and restore ecological function.
Effects of a ceramide‐containing water‐in‐oil ointment on skin barrier function and allergen penetration in an IL‐31 treated 3D model of the disrupted skin barrier
Authors: Huth Sebastian , Schmitt Laurenz , Marquardt Yvonne , Heise Ruth , Lüscher Bernhard , Amann Philipp M. , Baron Jens M.
Published: May 2018

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronically relapsing, pruritic inflammation of the skin with dryness and disturbed skin barrier function. Recently, we established that IL‐31 treatment of human 3D skin models resulted in a disrupted skin barrier phenotype resembling AD. In this model, we found that IL‐31 interferes with the differentiation of keratinocytes and inhibits the expression of terminal differentiation markers. In the present study, we investigated the effects of a ceramide‐containing water‐in‐oil skin care ointment on the physical skin barrier structure and function in disrupted skin barrier models, generated either by using primary normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK) or HaCaT cells. We observed that the physical skin barrier of the models recovered after daily topical treatment with the ceramide‐containing ointment. Topical application of the ointment prevented downregulation of filaggrin and disorganization of other differentiation markers, such as keratin 10 and β4‐integrin, as demonstrated by immunohistological analysis. The expression of Ki67 was also upregulated in response to the ointment. Furthermore, functional studies revealed that local application of the ointment diminished the increased uptake of fluorescently labelled recombinant allergens of timothy grass (phl p1) in our model. In conclusion, our data revealed that topical application of a ceramide‐containing skin care ointment reduced IL‐31 induced impairments of the physical skin barrier and skin barrier function in an in vitro model of the disrupted skin barrier. This standardized model can be utilized in the future to monitor ex vivo effects of various topical therapies on skin morphology, physiology, and gene expression.
Toll‐like receptor 4 attenuates a murine model of atopic dermatitis through inhibition of langerin‐positive DCs migration
Authors: Lin Lin , Xie Mengying , Chen Xi , Yu Yu , Liu Yunzhi , Lei Ke , Wang Di , Zeng Jiaqi , Zhou Jia , Zhang Liyun , Zuo Daming , Sun Ledong
Published: May 2018

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease that is often associated with skin barrier dysfunction leading to a higher frequency of bacterial and viral skin infections. Toll‐like receptor (TLR) 4 on resident skin cells was involved in sensing pathogens and eliciting pathogen‐specific innate and adaptive immune responses. Previous studies have demonstrated that TLR4 was linked to AD severity in context of pathogen infection. However, the immune regulatory role of TLR4 in AD remains to be defined. We here investigated the immune regulatory function of TLR4 in AD induced by repeated epicutaneous application of a hapten, 2,4‐dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB). Our results showed that TLR4‐deficient (TLR4−/−) mice exhibited more severe AD symptoms than WT mice after DNCB challenge. The DNCB‐treated TLR4−/− mice also displayed higher expression levels of inflammatory cytokines and stronger Th2 response than WT counterparts. Moreover, the skin expression of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), an important potential contributor to allergic inflammation, was significantly elevated in TLR4−/− mice compared with that in WT mice upon DNCB administration. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the migration of langerin‐positive dendritic cells (DCs) into draining lymph nodes was enhanced in TLR4−/− mice following DNCB challenge, which is partially dependent on the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokine TNF‐α. Together, these results determined that TLR4 affected the hapten‐induced skin inflammation in the absence of exogenous pathogen infection, suggesting that TLR4 not only regulates infection but also may serve as a modulator of the immune response during AD development.
Cancer‐related circulating and tumor‐associated neutrophils – subtypes, sources and function
Authors: Shaul Merav E. , Fridlender Zvi G.
Published: May 2018

In recent years, the role of neutrophils in cancer biology has been a matter of increasing interest. Many patients with advanced cancer show high levels of neutrophilia, tumor neutrophils are connected to dismal prognosis, and the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio has been introduced as a significant prognostic factor for survival in many types of cancer. Neutrophils constitute an important portion of the infiltrating immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, but controversy has long surrounded the function of these cells in the context of cancer. Multiple evidences have shown that neutrophils recruited to the tumor can acquire either protumor or antitumor function. These findings have led to the identification of multiple and heterogeneous neutrophil subsets in the tumor and circulation. In addition, tumor‐associated neutrophils (TANs) were shown to demonstrate functional plasticity, driven by multiple factors present in the tumor microenvironment. In this review, we examine the current knowledge on cancer‐related circulating neutrophils, their source and the function of the different subtypes, both mature and immature. We then discuss the pro vs antitumor nature ofTANs in cancer, their functional plasticity and the mechanisms that regulate neutrophil recruitment and polarization. Although the vast majority of the knowledge on neutrophils in cancer comes from murine studies, recent work has been done on human cancer‐related neutrophils. In the final paragraphs, we expand on the current knowledge regarding the role of neutrophils in human cancer and examine the question whether cancer‐related neutrophils (circulating or intratumoral) could be a new possible target for cancer immunotherapy.
Informed Trading of Mutual Funds: Evidence from Fund‐Underwriter Relationships
Authors: Hwang Hyoseok (David)
Published: May 2018

This paper investigates whether the relationship between investment banks and their affiliated funds helps the funds deliver superior performance due to the information advantage or whether it costs the funds due to the conflict of interest. Using firms with class‐action lawsuits, I examine whether underwriter‐affiliated funds can avoid a potential economic loss from the underwriting clients’ fraudulent activities. Consistent with the information advantage hypothesis, I find that affiliated funds reduce their stakes in underwritten firms before the disclosure of the firms’ misconduct. Additionally, I find that significant selling activity by the affiliated funds can predict the outcome of a potential lawsuit.
Eurasian perch Perca fluviatilis growth and fish community structure, inside and outside a marine‐protected area in the Baltic Sea
Authors: Nelson T. R. , Jefferson A. E. , Cooper P. T. , Buckley C. A. , Heck K. L. , Mattila J.
Published: May 2018

Growth of Eurasian perch Perca fluviatilis L. and fish community structure between sites within a marine‐protected area (MPA) and unprotected sites in the Baltic Sea were examined. Von Bertalanffy, logistic and Gompertz growth models were fitted to P. fluviatilis length at age data, and the logistic model was the most parsimonious for growth between locations. A larger mean maximum size (L∞) and a smaller instantaneous growth rate (g) were found within the MPA. All three models also predicted that after age seven, fish inside the MPA would be larger. Community structure differed with more P. fluviatilis collected outside of the MPA, and more roach Rutilus rutilus (L.) and bleak Alburnus alburnus (L.) collected inside the MPA. These growth differences may be indicative of recreational fishing effects on P. fluviatilis outside of the MPA, a result of complex interspecific and intraspecific species interactions, or other undetected environmental variation between locations.