bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STK11 is required for the normal program of ciliated cell differentiation in airways
Authors: Chu Qiqi , Yao Changfu , Qi Xiangbing , Stripp Barry Raymond , Tang Nan
Published: May 2019

The functional properties of mucosal surfaces are dependent on establishing the correct proportions of specialized epithelial cell types. Multiciliated cells (also known as ciliated cells) are evolutionarily conserved and functionally indispensable epithelial cells, as suggested by the link between ciliated cell dysfunction and chronic human disease. Ciliated cell differentiation is an ordered process that involves initial cell fate determination and multiciliogenesis. STK11, a serine/threonine kinase, has been reported to be down-regulated in human diseases associated with ciliopathies and functions as a tumor suppressor. Here, we show that STK11 is a physiological factor for the normal program of ciliated cell differentiation by phosphorylating MARK3, which directly suppresses ERK1/2 mediated pRB inactivation. Loss ofStk11in airway progenitors impairs the differentiation of ciliated cells in both embryonic and adult airways. Our study establishes that STK11/MARK3/ERK1/2 signaling cascade is a key regulator to integrate ciliated cell fate commitment and the subsequent process of multiciliogenesis.
Crunch: integrated processing and modeling of ChIP-seq data in terms of regulatory motifs
Authors: Berger Severin , Pachkov Mikhail , Arnold Phil , Omidi Saeed , Kelley Nicholas , Salatino Silvia , van Nimwegen Erik
Published: May 2019

Although ChIP-seq has become a routine experimental approach for quantitatively characterizing the genome-wide binding of transcription factors (TFs), computational analysis procedures remain far from standardized, making it difficult to compare ChIP-seq results across experiments. In addition, although genome-wide binding patterns must ultimately be determined by local constellations of DNA-binding sites, current analysis is typically limited to identifying enriched motifs in ChIP-seq peaks. Here we present Crunch, a completely automated computational method that performs all ChIP-seq analysis from quality control through read mapping and peak detecting and that integrates comprehensive modeling of the ChIP signal in terms of known and novel binding motifs, quantifying the contribution of each motif and annotating which combinations of motifs explain each binding peak. By applying Crunch to 128 data sets from the ENCODE Project, we show that Crunch outperforms current peak finders and find that TFs naturally separate into “solitary TFs,” for which a single motif explains the ChIP-peaks, and “cobinding TFs,” for which multiple motifs co-occur within peaks. Moreover, for most data sets, the motifs that Crunch identified de novo outperform known motifs, and both the set of cobinding motifs and the top motif of solitary TFs are consistent across experiments and cell lines. Crunch is implemented as a web server, enabling standardized analysis of any collection of ChIP-seq data sets by simply uploading raw sequencing data. Results are provided both in a graphical web interface and as downloadable files.
ClickX: a visualization-based program for preprocessing of serial crystallography data
Authors: Li Xuanxuan , Li Chufeng , Liu Haiguang
Published: May 2019

Serial crystallography is a powerful technique in structure determination using many small crystals at X-ray free-electron laser or synchrotron radiation facilities. The large diffraction data volumes require high-throughput software to preprocess the raw images for subsequent analysis. ClickX is a program designated for serial crystallography data preprocessing, capable of rapid data sorting for online feedback and peak-finding refinement by parameter optimization. The graphical user interface (GUI) provides convenient access to various operations such as pattern visualization, statistics plotting and parameter tuning. A batch job module is implemented to facilitate large-data-volume processing. A two-step geometry calibration for single-panel detectors is also integrated into the GUI, where the beam center and detector tilting angles are optimized using an ellipse center shifting method first, then all six parameters, including the photon energy and detector distance, are refined together using a residual minimization method. Implemented in Python, ClickX has good portability and extensibility, so that it can be installed, configured and used on any computing platform that provides a Python interface or common data file format. ClickX has been tested in online analysis at the Pohang Accelerator Laboratory X-ray Free-Electron Laser, Korea, and the Linac Coherent Light Source, USA. It has also been applied in post-experimental data analysis. The source code is available via https://github.com/LiuLab-CSRC/ClickX under a GNU General Public License.
Aeroelastic stability analysis of hingeless rotor blades in hover using fully intrinsic equations and dynamic wake model
Authors: Amoozgar Mohammadreza , Shahverdi Hossein
Published: May 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a new approach for aeroelastic analysis of hingeless rotor blades.

Design/methodology/approach

The aeroelastic approach developed here is based on the geometrically exact fully intrinsic beam equations and three-dimensional unsteady aerodynamics.

Findings

The developed approach is accurate, fast and very useful in rotorcraft aeroelastic analysis.

Originality/value

This beam formulation has been never combined with three-dimensional aerodynamic model to be used for aeroelastic analysis of blades. In addition, it is possible to handle the composite blades, as well as blades with initial curvatures and twist with this proposed formulation.
A survey on the Internet of Things security
Authors: Yousuf Omerah , Mir Roohie Naaz
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Internet of Things (IoT) is a challenging and promising system concept and requires new types of architectures and protocols compared to traditional networks. Security is an extremely critical issue for IoT that needs to be addressed efficiently. Heterogeneity being an inherent characteristic of IoT gives rise to many security issues that need to be addressed from the perspective of new architectures such as software defined networking, cryptographic algorithms, federated cloud and edge computing.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper analyzes the IoT security from three perspectives: three-layer security architecture, security issues at each layer and security countermeasures. The paper reviews the current state of the art, protocols and technologies used at each layer of security architecture. The paper focuses on various types of attacks that occur at each layer and provides the various approaches used to countermeasure such type of attacks.

Findings

The data exchanged between the different devices or applications in the IoT environment are quite sensitive; thus, the security aspect plays a key role and needs to be addressed efficiently. This indicates the urgent needs of developing general security policy and standards for IoT products. The efficient security architecture needs to be imposed but not at the cost of efficiency and scalability. The paper provides empirical insights about how the different security threats at each layer can be mitigated.

Originality/value

The paper fulfills the need of having an extensive and elaborated survey in the field of IoT security, along with suggesting the countermeasures to mitigate the threats occurring at each level of IoT protocol stack.
Faculty placement strategies for international higher education institutes
Authors: Swanson Mary K. , Swanson Brian A.
Published: May 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on enhancing the learning experience for both expatriate academics and students in international higher education institutions (HEIs) through understanding students’ cultural perspectives, analyzing student feedback and evaluating faculty placement strategies. The analysis can be used to aid international educational programs in understanding student values and increasing the quality of instructor–student interaction.

Design/methodology/approach

This research surveyed over 1,300 undergraduate students enrolled in a US and Chinese dual-degree program located in China. A voluntary survey with open and closed questions assessed the cultural values of students, and the cultural values and behavior they believe are important for their instructors to observe in the classroom.

Findings

The results of this case study suggest that students’ perceived importance of Western cultural values demonstrated only one significant change during their time of enrollment in a US degree program. However, the research indicates that the importance of Chinese cultural values decreased from the students’ first year to their fourth year. Some notable propositions include the importance of culturally competent and experienced faculty in the students’ early US courses and data-driven recommendations for placement, training and development of new foreign faculty to increase the likelihood of a satisfactory experience for both the faculty and students in the cross-border classroom.

Originality/value

Ultimately, this research can aid international HEI’s by enabling enhanced student and instructor experiences and superior HR practices in the less observed area of faculty placement. These improved practices can contribute to the quality and sustainability of such international programs. In addition, this research provides perspective on the impact of international education on student cultural values and presents student feedback to increase understanding of student expectations and desires in the international classroom.
How does capital market respond to Certified Emission Reductions (CERs) announcements in India
Authors: Kumar Praveen , Firoz Mohammad
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the relationship between Certified Emission Reductions (CERs) information and a firm’s stock prices.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study is based on 193 CERs announcements by Indian firms over a 13-year period 2005–2017. The event study methodology is used to examine the impact of CERs announcements on a firm’s share prices.

Findings

The study suggests that the issuance of CERs did not produce any significant abnormal return. More specifically, the outcomes of event study shows that over a two-day event window from the event day to the day after the event (i.e. days 0 to 1), the mean and median of AARs are −0.25 and −0.34 percent, respectively. The abnormal returns on day 1 are not statistically significant as per the t-test. Moreover, the mean and median of abnormal returns after one day (−1) are negative, indicating that investors react negatively to CERs announcements. However, the mean and median of CAARs over both the two-day (i.e. days −1 to 0 and days 0 to +1) and three-day (i.e. days −1 to +1) event windows are positive, but not statistically significant based on the t-test.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of the study are quite comprehensive, relatively used only market-based criteria of a firm’s financial performance, e.g., share price, at times, inhibits generalizing the results.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, the present study is a first of its kind to investigate the relationship between the CERs information and a firm’s stock prices.
Beyond police culture
Authors: Paesen Heidi , Maesschalck Jeroen , Loyens Kim
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Combining insights from the traditional literature on police culture with insights from the broader literature on organisational culture and on grid-group cultural theory (Douglas, 1970), the purpose of this paper is to introduce a new 15-dimensional framework of “organisational culture in the police” and test this framework via a survey instrument. This new conceptualisation is broader than the traditional police culture concept and allows for comparisons of the police with other organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

A newly developed instrument to measure the 15-dimensional framework, called the “Leuven Organisational Culture Questionnaire (LOCQ)”, was tested in 64 local police forces in Belgium (n=3,847).

Findings

The hypothesised 15-dimensional model is largely confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis. Assessments of between-unit variation show that the LOCQ is sufficiently sensitive to identify differences between work units in police organisations. The authors also find that traditional police culture characteristics tend to vary slightly less between units than the other characteristics. Also, there is less variation for characteristics related to police work (e.g. law enforcement orientation and citizen orientation) than for characteristics associated with the unit level (e.g. weak supervisory support and internal solidarity) or the organisational level (e.g. rule orientation and results orientation).

Originality/value

This paper expands the traditional “police culture” concept to a more generic and theory-driven conceptualisation of “organisational culture in the police”. The survey instrument offers a standardised way to map and compare culture within police organisations, and to compare it with the culture of other organisations both within and outside law enforcement.
Research on the adaptive mechanism of photosynthetic apparatus under salt stress: New directions to increase crop yield in saline soils
Authors: Huang Luyao , Li Zhuangzhuang , Liu Qian , Pu Gaobin , Zhang Yongqing , Li Jia
Published: May 2019

Photosynthesis is the largest organic synthesis on Earth, salinity limits crop yield and quality worldwide directly or indirectly related to the decrease in photosynthetic efficiency. The mechanism by which photosynthetic apparatus responds to salt stress is extremely complex and varies with plant genotype, developmental stage, the history of the plant cell and duration of stress imposed. Recent studies have partially revealed the mechanisms from different levels: molecular, physiological and biochemical, morphological; but there is currently no unified mechanism to explain the effect of stress on photosynthesis. This study comprehensively reviews the adaptive mechanism of photosynthetic apparatus under salt stress, summarises methods for increasing the resistance and provides a practical way to increase grain yield in saline soils.
A prospective review of perinatal mortality at Hospital Nacional Guido Valadares (HNGV)
Authors: Jayaratnam Skandarupan , Lucia de Fatima Godinho Soares Maria , Bucens Ingrid , Jennings Belinda , Woods Cindy , Shub Alexis
Published: May 2019

Background

Timor‐Leste has one of the highest perinatal mortality rates in the Asia‐Pacific region. Consistent and accurate data collection improves understanding of perinatal outcomes and facilitates the development of interventions to reduce stillbirths and early neonatal deaths.

Aims

(1) To identify changes in the rates of stillbirth and early neonatal deaths from previous published data. (2) To determine if prospective data collection and the application of the simplified Causes Of Death and Associated Conditions (CODAC) classification allows better identification of perinatal deaths in Timor‐Leste.

Methods

A prospective audit of perinatal deaths of women delivering at Hospital Nacional Guido Valadares (HNGV) was undertaken from January to June 2016 inclusive. The hospital birth registry, maternal and neonatal records were reviewed to determine the most likely aetiology and classification of perinatal deaths using the simplified CODAC system.

Results

One hundred and ten stillbirths and 28 early neonatal deaths were identified. Fifty‐four percent of perinatal deaths occurred antepartum, 26% intrapartum and 20% were early neonatal deaths. Cause of death among stillbirths could not be ascertained in 40% of cases. Intrapartum asphyxia was the commonest identified aetiology of intrapartum and early neonatal deaths.

Conclusion

There has been limited improvement in the rate of stillbirths and early neonatal deaths at HNGV. Intrapartum hypoxia and maternal hypertensive conditions were the most common identified aetiologies highlighting areas where targeted interventions may help reduce high perinatal mortality rates. Aetiology of perinatal deaths, particularly antepartum stillbirths was difficult to discern even when well‐tested classification systems are used.
Editorial: combination immunosuppressive therapy to treat Crohn’s disease – ready for all age groups?
Authors: Murray Charles D. R.
Published: May 2019

Linked Content

This article is linked to Singh et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15214 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15283.
Editorial: mind the gaps ‐ an important first step towards improving hepatic encephalopathy care
Authors: Bloom Patricia Pringle , Chung Raymond T.
Published: May 2019

Linked Content

This article is linked to Bajaj et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15265.
Letter: reassuringly normal response to ACTH in children treated with swallowed topical corticosteroids for eosinophilic oesophagitis – authors’ reply
Authors: Philpott Hamish , Dougherty Michael , Torpy David , Dellon Evan
Published: May 2019

Linked Content

This article is linked to Philpott et al and Rodríguez Manchón et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14573 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15243.
Impact of a single treatment of injectable doramectin on weight gain post weaning in beef heifers and steers in central Queensland, Australia
Authors: Taylor LF , Hodge A
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To demonstrate the impact of a single drench with a label dose of injectable doramectin subsequent to weaning on the growth and performance of heifers and steers in central Queensland beef herds.

Methods

Three studies were undertaken on recently‐weaned Bos indicus‐cross beef calves with ≥ 75% B. indicus content on two farms in central Queensland, just north of the Tropic of Capricorn. Farm 1 was located 50 km north and Farm 2 75 km north‐west of Rockhampton. In each study, half of a group of recently‐weaned beef calves were treated by random allocation with 0.2 mg/kg of injectable doramectin, and the remainder acting as untreated controls. Study 1 (Farm 1) enrolled 250 heifers, while studies 2 and 3 (Farm 2) both enrolled 200 steers and 200 heifers. The farms involved did not historically use macrocyclic lactone‐based drenches on their cattle. There were varying periods of follow‐up, with treated and control cattle pastured as one group throughout the study period. Worm burdens were monitored using standard faecal egg counts and larval differentiation procedures. In all studies, the worm genera present were a mix of Cooperia spp., Haemonchus spp. and Oesophagostomum spp.

Results

In study 1, conducted on Farm 1 beginning 9 July 2012, doramectin‐treated cattle gained an average of 0.27 kg/day while control cattle gained 0.19 kg/day over a monitoring period of 121 days (P < 0.0001). In study 2, conducted on Farm 2 beginning 28 July 2015, doramectin‐treated cattle gained an average of 0.15 kg/day versus 0.145 kg/day in the control group (P = 0.44) over a 231‐day study period. In study 3, conducted on Farm 2 beginning 4 August 2016, doramectin‐treated steers and heifers gained an average of 0.431 and 0.402 kg/day versus 0.342 and 0.311 kg/day in the control group, respectively, over the first 91 days of the study (P < 0.0001 in both cases). The differences in average daily gain (ADG) in subsequent time periods were not statistically significant for steers or heifers. However, overall differences in ADG from day 0 remained statistically significant out to day 258, when the study ended for the heifers. By day 594, when the study ended for the steers, the difference in ADG was no longer significant.

Conclusion

Treatment with injectable doramectin soon after weaning resulted in improved weight gain in the 3 months after weaning in two of the three studies.
Is canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) endemic to South Australia?
Authors: Dearsley EJ , O’Handley RM , Caraguel CGB
Published: May 2019

Background

Canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) was reported as endemic to South Australia over 25 years ago, but the current status of canine heartworm infection in South Australia is unknown.

Methods

We surveyed South Australian veterinary practices to collect evidence about canine heartworm cases, prevention, screening and treatment practices.

Results

In total, 141 veterinary practices operating in South Australia (92.3% response rate) completed a 12‐question telephone survey. Five confirmed cases of heartworm and one suspected false‐positive case were reported from separate practices over the 2016–17 financial year. All confirmed cases had recently relocated to South Australia from interstate. Incidence of canine heartworm was estimated at 0.00% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.00–0.0006) and prevalence at 0.002% (95%CI: 0.00–0.004) using conservative estimates of the South Australian dog population. Attitudes and protocols regarding heartworm differed significantly between metropolitan and rural veterinary practices. All metropolitan practices recommend systematic medicated prevention against heartworm, while some rural practices (20.7%) recommend prevention only when travelling interstate (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Although there is a minor source of heartworm from introduction of infected dogs into South Australia, there is no evidence that the infection is transmitted to other dogs within the state. Therefore, it is unlikely that heartworm is currently endemic to South Australia as reported in the past. This new evidence provides a strong case to refine current prevention practices to reflect the current negligible risk of heartworm infection within South Australia.
Hypoventilation, cardiac dysrhythmia, and cardiac arrest following acute Brunfelsia species (Yesterday, today, tomorrow) intoxication in a dog
Authors: Crowley JD , Thomas KA , Donahoe SL , Child G , Hickey MC , Mooney ET
Published: May 2019

Background

Intoxication following ingestion of the popular garden shrub ‘Yesterday, today, tomorrow’ (Brunfelsia sp.) is known to result in gastrointestinal and central nervous system clinical signs in dogs.

Case report

A 2‐year‐old dog developed acute‐onset vomiting, profuse diarrhoea and ptyalism after unsupervised access to an enclosed backyard that contained a Brunfelsia sp. shrub. During initial assessment the watery diarrhoea contained plant material and the dog appeared painful on abdominal palpation. Soon after admission, severe neurological abnormalities developed. Decontamination was undertaken by gastric and colonic lavage under general anaesthesia, but on recovery the patient had generalised seizures that were unresponsive to benzodiazepines. Following treatment with multiple antiepileptic medications and endotracheal intubation for loss of gag reflex, the patient developed respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation. Four days after initial presentation, the patient developed cardiac dysrhythmia leading to fatal cardiac arrest. Plant material recovered from the shrub and the patient’s gastrointestinal tract were identified as Brunfelsia spp.

Conclusion

This is the first report of hypoventilation, severe cardiac dysrhythmia and cardiac arrest associated with Brunfelsia sp. intoxication in a dog. Previous reports described clinical signs of gastrointestinal disease and mild cardiac dysrhythmia progressing to seizure activity and opisthotonus. Electrocardiography should form part of patient monitoring and mechanical ventilation considered for patients that develop respiratory failure, especially if massive ingestion is suspected.
Anaphylaxis associated with intravenous administration of alphaxalone in a dog
Authors: Haworth M , McEwen M , Dixon B , Purcell SL
Published: May 2019

Case report

We describe the clinical signs and management of a case of anaphylaxis in a dog after intravenous administration of alphaxalone (Alfaxan®, Jurox, NSW, Aust), which has not been previously published. A female spayed cattle dog undergoing routine imaging for forelimb lameness was induced with Alfaxan after receiving sedation with acepromazine and methadone 70 min prior. Immediately after intravenous administration of Alfaxan, the dog exhibited vomiting and diarrhoea associated with acute hypotension. Gallbladder wall oedema was visualised consistent with anaphylaxis. The dog responded to rapid volume expansion. Adrenaline was not required. The dog made a full recovery within 6 h of the reaction and was re‐anaesthetised 3 days later without incident, using propofol as the induction agent.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first published case of anaphylaxis associated with intravenous Alfaxan in the dog. The APVMA reporting of reactions in small animals from 2003 to 2013 of Alfaxan is consistent with this case report's finding involving the respiratory, circulatory and gastrointestinal systems.
2PN cell donation in Germany. Or: How the German Embryo Protection (Act) undermines itself
Authors: Schickl Hannah
Published: May 2019

In contrast to embryo donation, the permissibility of 2PN cell donation is highly controversial in Germany. This article is based on there being a legal loophole with respect to 2PN cell donation, which results from an inconsistency within the Embryo Protection Act on the normative status of 2PN cells. Following that thesis, the article argues that, on the basis of the normative criterion totipotency (i.e. the capacity to develop into a born human being), 2PN cells should also be considered human embryos within the meaning of the Act and thereby be protected by that Act in the same way as embryos. However, the normative assumption that 2PN cells should already be endowed with human dignity and the right to life has absurd consequences. Moreover, the consistent continuation of the Embryo Protection Act, as well as of the underlying ethical position or argumentation (i.e. the potentiality argument), leads to the even more absurd consequence of having to place every human somatic cell under the protection of human dignity and the right to life. As totipotency or the developmental potential therefore cannot delimit entities considered worthy of protection (i.e. human embryos) from entities considered not worthy of protection (i.e. 2PN cells, gametes, hESC, hiPSC and human somatic cells), it is not a suitable normative criterion. As a paradigmatic case, 2PN cell donation demonstrates that by retaining this normative criterion the now obsolete German Embryo Protection (Act) ultimately undermines itself.
Raman imaging highlights biochemical heterogeneity of human eosinophils versus human eosinophilic leukaemia cell line
Authors: Rygula Anna , Fernandes Rafaella F. , Grosicki Marek , Kukla Bozena , Leszczenko Patrycja , Augustynska Dominika , Cernescu Adrian , Dorosz Aleksandra , Malek Kamilla , Baranska Malgorzata
Published: May 2019

Eosinophils are acidophilic granulocytes that develop in the bone marrow. Although their population contributes only to approximately 1–6% of all leucocytes present in the human blood, they possess a wide range of specific functions. They play a key role in inflammation‐regulating processes, when their numbers can increased to above 5 × 109/l of peripheral blood. Their characteristic feature is the presence of granules containing eosinophil peroxidase (EPO), the release of which can trigger a cascade of events promoting oxidative stress, apoptosis or necrosis, leading finally to cell death. Raman spectroscopy is a powerful technique to detect EPO, which comprises a chromophore protoporphyrin IX. Another cell structure associated with inflammation processes are lipid bodies (lipid‐rich organelles), also well recognized and imaged using high resolution confocal Raman spectroscopy. In this work, eosinophils isolated from the blood of a human donor were analysed versus their model, EoL‐1 human eosinophilic leukaemia cell line, by Raman spectroscopic imaging. We showed that EPO was present only in primary cells and not found in the cell line. Eosinophils were activated using phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate, which resulted in lipid bodies formation. An effect of cells stimulation was studied and compared for eosinophils and EoL‐1.
Rockets and feathers behaviour in the Spanish gasoline and diesel market: New evidence
Authors: Martín‐Moreno José Mª , Pérez Rafaela , Ruiz Jesús
Published: May 2019

In this paper we analyse the potential asymmetric response of retail prices for gasoline and diesel‐fuel to changes in oil prices for the Spanish economy and its relation with the so‐called ‘rockets and feathers’ behaviour. We show that the assumption made by previous studies, which use as the key explanatory variable the sign –positive or negative‐ of the change in international oil prices, is inadequate for the Spanish case and the magnitude of the change in international oil prices is also relevant. For small changes in international oil prices there is neither price asymmetry nor rockets and feathers behavior in the retail markets. However, price asymmetries in line with rockets and feathers behavior in retail gasoline and gasoil markets are present when these changes exceed a certain threshold. Following Martín‐Moreno et al. (2018) we first apply an Auto‐regressive Error Correction Model and endogenously estimate the threshold triggering the rockets and feathers behaviour. A time‐varying nature for the dynamic response of retail prices to oil price shocks is revealed when we estimate the TAR‐ECM model using rolling windows. Hence, in a second stage, we use a Markov‐switching estimation of the model to test the robustness of the results given its suitability to changing environments. This study could have relevant policy implications for the Spanish gasoline and gasoil retail markets due to the ongoing debate on the existence of a rockets and feathers behavior in gasoline and gasoil retail markets between the Spanish regulatory body and the oil companies.
Racial/Ethnic Hierarchy and Urban Labor Market Inequality: Four Poignant Historical Cases
Authors: Restifo Salvatore J. , Roscigno Vincent J. , Phillips Lora A.
Published: May 2019

The sociological literature, although rich on the topic of racial/ethnic hierarchy, often overlooks its spatially varying nature relative to group tensions and inequality. In this article, we address this gap by drawing on and analyzing four historically important U.S. urban cases (i.e., Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York City) that reflect both compositional diversity and significant variation in racial/ethnic group sizes. Our analyses, which draw on U.S. Census microdata and content–coded newspaper reports (1910–1930), demonstrate considerable consistency in racial/ethnic labor market hierarchies, yet divergences in levels of labor market inequality. Specifically, our aggregate analyses and cross–city comparisons of sectoral representations and occupational returns reveal the importance of place–specific processes—processes consistent with what spatially sensitive queuing perspectives suggest about the bolstering of minority prospects in contexts where subordinated groups come to numerically dominate. As suggested by competition/threat perspectives, however, such gains from queuing are undermined at least to some extent by city–specific racial/ethnic antagonisms, industry–level segregation, and group closure. We conclude by discussing the implications of our findings for various streams of research on group inequality, labor market hierarchies, and spatial understandings of how they unfold across urban spaces.
Compromised left atrial function and increased size predict raised cavity pressure: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bytyçi Ibadete , Bajraktari Gani , Lindqvist Per , Henein Michael Y.
Published: May 2019

Aim

This meta‐analysis assesses left atrial (LA) cavity and myocardial function measurements that predict pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP).

Methods

PubMed–MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Google Scholar and the Cochrane Central Registry were searched up to December 2018 for studies on the relationship of LA diameter, LA indexed volume (LAVI max, LAVI min), peak atrial longitudinal (PALS), peak atrial contraction (PACS) strain and total emptying fraction (LAEF) with PCWP. Eighteen studies with 1343 patients were included. Summary sensitivity and specificity (with 95% CI) for evaluation of diagnostic accuracy and the best cut‐off values for different LA indices in predicting raised PCWP were estimated using summary receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results

The pooled analysis showed association between PCWP and LA diameter: Cohen's d = 0·87, LAVI max: d = 0·92 and LAVI min: d = 1·0 (P<0·001 for all). A stronger correlation was found between PCWP and PALS: d = 1·26, and PACS: d = 1·62, total EF d = 1·22 (P<0·0001 for all). PALS ≤19% had a summary sensitivity of 80% (65–90) and summary specificity of 77% (52–92), positive likelihood ratio (LR+) 3·74, negative likelihood ratio (LR‐) <0·25 and DOR > 15·1 whereas LAVI ≥34 ml m−2 had summary sensitivity of 75% (55–89) and summary specificity 77% (57–90), with LR+ >3, LR‐ 0·32 and DOR >10·1.

Conclusions

Compromised LA myocardial function and increased size predict raised cavity pressure. These results should assist in optimum follow‐up of patients with fluctuating LA pressure.
Prediction of survival on the waiting list for heart transplantation and of posttransplant nonadherence—Results of a prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Vitinius Frank , Reklat Andre , Hellmich Martin , Klask Elisa , Wahlers Thorsten , Rahmanian Parwis B. , Pfister Roman , Müller‐Ehmsen Jochen , Albus Christian
Published: May 2019

Background

Only a few previous studies have focused on the interaction between pretransplant psychological variables, survival on the waiting list, and adherence to therapy after heart transplantation (HTx).

Methods

This work combined two studies: Study 1 monitored survival of patients on a HTx waiting list (n = 50) and study 2 examined barriers to adherence after HTx (subgroup of n = 20). All patients were evaluated immediately after listing for HTx (T0). Those in study 2 were also evaluated immediately after HTx (T1) and after 6 months (T2). Psychosocial functioning was measured by the Transplant Evaluation Rating Scale (TERS), and depression and anxiety by Patient Health Questionnaire and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Barriers to immunosuppressive adherence post‐HTx were measured by the Medication Experience Scale for Immunosuppressants (MESI).

Results

According to the TERS classification of Rothenhäusler et al, patients were divided into three groups in study 1. Compared with inconspicuous patients (n = 23) and risk patients (n = 21), high‐risk patients (n = 6) demonstrated a higher mortality (log‐rank test of trend, P = 0.002). In study 2, there was a strong correlation between the TERS (T0) and the MESI (T2) (r = 0.84, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

The TERS may serve as a predictor of survival on the waiting list. There is need for further longitudinal data with larger sample sizes.
Asia's ‘little divergence’ in the twentieth century: evidence from PPP‐based direct estimates of GDP per capita, 1913–69
Authors: Bassino Jean‐Pascal , van der Eng Pierre
Published: May 2019

This article uses expenditure‐based purchasing power parities (PPPs) to estimate GDP per capita in comparable prices for 12 Asian countries for six benchmark years during the period 1913–69. The article finds that in 1913 levels of real GDP per capita in several countries were comparable to those in Japan. GDP per capita in Japan and other Asian countries diverged during and after the First World War. The article questions whether Asia's ‘little divergence’ between Japan and other Asian countries dates back to the late eighteenth century. It draws attention to the different resource endowments of Japan, China, and India compared to other Asian countries, and their implications for the development trajectories of Asian countries. The article demonstrates that using historical PPP estimates yields estimates of GDP per capita that diverge from those based on retropolations of the single 1990 PPP‐converted benchmark year. It concludes that historical estimates of PPPs are needed to confirm analyses of comparative economic performance based on available GDP per capita data.
Game of courts: A tale of principles and institutions
Authors: Petrić Davor
Published: May 2019

The ontological, terminological and conceptual confusion that surrounds the concept of ‘general principles of European Union law’ is far from being resolved. The constitutional interlocutors—the Court of Justice of the European Union and the highest courts in Member States—have at times fiercely argued about their different understanding of general principles, whereas European legal scholarship has failed to convincingly clarify the intricacies surrounding this source of law. Instead of engaging with a more abstract, theoretical question of what general principles are, this paper reflects on the practical, functionalist question: how are they used by the Court of Justice and what are some of their functions and implications? To do so, it enquires into contextual, institutional and strategic features of the Court's behaviour and jurisprudence and responses of the highest national judiciaries to this jurisprudence. The aim is to offer an alternative account of the Court's jurisprudence on general principles.
A new fixture for fracture tests under mixed mode I/II/III loading
Authors: Razavi Nima , Berto Filippo
Published: May 2019

In this paper, a new loading device for general mixed mode I/II/III fracture tests is designed and recommended. Finite element analyses are conducted on the proposed apparatus to evaluate the fracture parameters of the tested samples under various mixed mode loading conditions. The numerical results revealed that the designed loading fixture can generate wide varieties of mode mixities from pure tensile mode to pure in‐plane and out‐of‐plane shear modes. The accuracy of the proposed fixture is evaluated by conducting a wide range of fracture tests on compact tension shear (CTS) specimens made of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). The experimental results are then compared with the theoretical predictions obtained by the Richard criterion. A good consistency is observed between the experimental results and theoretical predictions.
Association between histopathological changes and expression of selected microRNAs in skin of adult patients with IgA vasculitis
Authors: Jurčić Vesna , Bolha Luka , Matjašič Alenka , Sedej Ivana , Dolinar Ana , Grubelnik Gašper , Hauptman Nina , Pižem Jože , Jevšinek-Skok Daša , Hočevar Alojzija , Ravnik‐Glavač Metka , Glavač Damjan
Published: May 2019

Aims

IgA vasculitis (IgAV) is a common small‐vessel systemic vasculitisthat is histologically characterised by granulocyte infiltration and IgA deposition in vessel walls. Information on microRNA (miRNA) involvement inIgAVis limited. The aim of this study was to analyse the association between histopathological changes and expression profiles of 14 miRNAs in the affected skin of 70 adult patients with IgAV.

Methods and results

miRNA expression analysis was performed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and evaluation of histopathological changes by light and immunofluorescence microscopy on formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded skin excision samples. In IgAV‐affected skin, granulocyte infiltration was significantly associated with vessel fibrinoid necrosis. Of the analysed miRNAs, four showed two‐fold increased expression (let‐7d, let‐7f, miR‐21‐5p, and miR‐203‐3p), five showed five‐fold increased expression (let‐7b, miR‐17‐5p, miR‐155‐5p, miR‐423‐5p, and miR‐451a), and threeshowed 15‐fold increased expression (let‐7a, miR‐21‐3p, miR‐223‐3p), as compared with controls (all P < 0.001). miR‐146a‐5p and miR‐148b‐3p showed three‐fold decreased expression (P = 0.981 and P < 0.001). The expression of miR‐223‐3p also showed a significant positive association with granulocyte infiltration and fibrinoid necrosis.

Conclusions

Altered miRNA expression, especially of miRNA‐223‐3p, may be associated with the skin inflammatory state in IgAV. The majority of aberrantly expressed miRNAs in IgAV‐affected skin are known to influence the nuclear factor‐κB signalling pathway, which is crucial for activation of key proinflammatory genes, including those encoding tumour necrosis factor‐α, interleukin (IL)‐6, and IL‐8. Furthermore, miR‐146a‐5p and miR‐148b‐3p, which are negative regulators of inflammatory gene expression, showed decreased expression and could contribute to the exaggerated inflammation. Further investigation of miRNA expression in the affected tissues could improve our knowledge of IgAV pathogenesis, and possibly help to identify novel biomarkers in body fluids.
Effective Macroprudential Policy: Cross‐Sector Substitution from Price and Quantity Measures
Authors: CIZEL JANKO , FROST JON , HOUBEN AERDT , WIERTS PETER
Published: May 2019

Macroprudential policy is increasingly being implemented worldwide, and is mostly applied to banks. A key question is whether this prompts substitution toward nonbank credit. Using two different global data sets on macroprudential measures and different methodologies, including detrended series, panel estimations, and propensity score matching, we find evidence of such substitution. Substitution toward nonbank credit appears to be stronger when policy measures are binding and are implemented in economies with well‐developed nonbank credit markets. This substitution partially offsets the fall in bank credit, thus dampening the policies’ effect on total credit.
“Miliacin encapsulated by polar lipids stimulates cell proliferation in hair bulb and improves telogen effluvium in women”
Authors: Keophiphath Mayoura , Courbière Christophe , Manzato Léana , Lamour Irène , Gaillard Emmanuelle
Published: May 2019

Background

Miliacin, the main triterpenoid from millet, is known to stimulate keratinocyte metabolism and proliferation. Polar lipids are able to form vesicles with active compounds and to improve their bioavailability.

Objectives

We aimed to demonstrate potential benefits of a solution of miliacin encapsulated within polar lipids (MePL) on telogen effluvium prevention and hair condition in women.

METHODS

After preliminary cell proliferation studies, a placebo‐controlled, multicentric, randomized, double‐blind trial was performed on sixty‐five nonmenopausal women affected by telogen effluvium, to assess the efficacy of a 12‐week oral supplementation with MePL. Telogen and anagen densities were determined by phototrichogram analysis. Scalp dryness and hair brightness were clinically evaluated using a Likert scale.

Results

MePL further enhanced cell proliferation in hair bulb from human scalp than miliacin alone. Compared to the placebo treatment, MePL supplementation significantly reduced telogen density after 12 weeks of treatment. An increase of anagen density was observed in both groups, although there was no significant difference between the two treatments. Scalp dryness was more decreased in the MePL group than in the placebo group. A better improvement of hair brightness was also observed after 12 weeks of supplementation with MePL.

Conclusion

Twelve weeks of MePL supplementation significantly reduced the hair density in the telogen phase and, in parallel, improved scalp dryness and hair condition. These effects could be linked to MePL activity on cell proliferation in hair bulb. MePL is an original association of plant extract that could help to prevent and/or limit hair loss in women.
Macrophage CCL22 expression in the tumor microenvironment and implications for survival in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue
Authors: Kimura Satoshi , Nanbu Uki , Noguchi Hirotsugu , Harada Yoshikazu , Kumamoto Keiichiro , Sasaguri Yasuyuki , Nakayama Toshiyuki
Published: May 2019

Background

CCL22, mainly synthesized by monocyte‐derived alternative (M2) macrophages, belongs to the CC family of chemokines. CCR4, the receptor for CCL22, is expressed in regulatory T cells (Tregs) and Th2 cells. The Yamamoto‐Kohama (YK) mode of invasion has been associated with tumor prognosis. Herein, we investigated the role of CCL22 in the tumor microenvironment and its effect on the overall survival rate in patients with tongue squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Methods

Tumor sections obtained from 92 patients with tongue SCC were graded based on the mode of invasion according to the YK classification. The expressions of several markers (CCL22, CD8, and Ki‐67 by immunohistochemistry; CCR4 and FoxP3 by immunofluorescent staining) were evaluated. Student's t test and chi‐square tests were used to compare differences between numerical variables and groups, respectively. Survival curves were plotted according to the Kaplan‐Meier method and compared using a log‐rank test. Hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated using univariate or multivariate Cox proportional hazard models.

Results

The expression of CCL22 was significantly correlated with YK classification, overall survival rate (P < 0.001), a decrease in the number of CD8‐positive cells, and an increase in the tumor Ki‐67 index. In addition, CCR4‐positive cells were observed around CCL22‐positive macrophages.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that the expression of CCL22 in the tumor microenvironment led to a deterioration in the prognosis of patients with tongue SCC by influencing the balance of M1‐ and M2‐like macrophages.
Lispro insulin and electrolyte supplementation for treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis in cats
Authors: Anderson Jodie D. , Rondeau Danielle A. , Hess Rebecka S.
Published: May 2019

Background

Intravenous continuous rate infusion (IVCRI) of lispro at a starting dose of 0.09 U/kg/h and the use of 0.9% sodium chloride (NaCl) for fluid resuscitation in cats with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) have not been reported. Protocols for correction of electrolyte deficiencies in cats with DKA are lacking.

Objectives

To characterize the use of IVCRI lispro at an initial dose of 0.09 U/kg/h and the use of NaCl for resuscitation. Explore protocols for electrolyte supplementation in cats with DKA.

Animals

Twelve cats with DKA enrolled from the cat population of a university hospital.

Methods

Randomized, controlled, blinded study. Six cats were randomized into each group, the lispro insulin treatment group (LITG) and regular insulin treatment group (RITG). All cats received IVCRI fluid resuscitation with NaCl. Solutions with higher than previously published electrolyte concentrations were used to treat electrolyte deficiencies.

Results

The median time to blood glucose (BG) concentration <250 mg/dL was significantly shorter in the LITG (median 7 hours, 2‐10 hours) than the RITG (median 12.5 hours, 8‐20 hours;P = .02). Two cats had nonclinical hypoglycemia (BG = 40 mg/dL). The most rapid change in 157 measurements of corrected sodium concentrations was 0.7 mmol/L/h. Low concentrations of serum sodium, potassium, phosphate, and magnesium were over 3 times more common than above normal electrolyte concentrations, despite supplementation with fluids of high electrolyte concentrations.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Lispro at a starting dose of 0.09 U/kg/h and NaCl administered for fluid resuscitation are safe and effective for treatment of DKA in cats.