bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When Do Employees Choose to Be Represented on the Board of Directors? Empirical Analysis of Board‐Level Employee Representation in Denmark
Authors: Gregorič Aleksandra , Poulsen Thomas
Published: August 2019

Drawing on transaction costs economics and longitudinal data on Danish corporations, we analyse the distribution of board‐level employee representation (BLER) and the characteristics of employee directors in a context where workers have the possibility (but not also an obligation) to nominate representatives to the board of directors. We show that BLER is less likely instituted in firms with CEO or family‐related members on the board, but more likely observed in larger, older firms and in those with high firm‐specific human capital and union density. Firm‐specific human capital, qualifications and union membership also determine individual worker's probability to become a board member.
Apatinib induces 3‐hydroxybutyric acid production in the liver of mice by peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor α activation to aid its antitumor effect
Authors: Feng Siqi , Wang Huan , Wang Ying , Sun Runbin , Xie Yuan , Zhou Zhu , Wang Hong , Aa Jiye , Zhou Fang , Wang Guangji
Published: August 2019

Apatinib, an antiangiogenic agent, shows efficient antitumor activity in a broad range of malignancies. Considering tumor is a type of metabolic disease, we investigated the metabolomics changes in serum and tumor after apatinib treatment and the molecular mechanism of characteristic changes associated with its antitumor efficacy. Molecules in serum and tumor tissue were extracted and analyzed by a gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry metabolic platform. Apatinib significantly inhibited e tumor growth and alleviated metabolic rearrangement in both serum and tumor of A549 xenograft mice. Among these endogenous metabolites, 3‐hydroxybutyric acid (3‐HB) was significantly increased in serum, tumor and liver after apatinib treatment. Interestingly, giving exogenous 3‐HB also inhibited tumor growth. Gene expression, dual luciferase reporter gene assay and molecular docking analysis all indicated that apatinib could induce 3‐HB production through the dependent activation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor α (PPARα) and promotion of fatty acid utilization in the liver. Therefore, increased content of 3‐HB induced by PPARα activation in the liver partially contributed to the antitumor effect of apatinib. It may provide clues to another potential mechanism underlying the antitumor effect of apatinib besides its antiangiogenic effect through inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2.
Whole exome and targeted gene sequencing to detect pathogenic recessive variants in early onset cerebellar ataxia
Authors: Shakya Sunil , Kumari Renu , Suroliya Varun , Tyagi Nishu , Joshi Aditi , Garg Ajay , Singh Inder , Kalikavil Puthanveedu Divya , Cherian Ajith , Mukerji Mitali , Srivastava Achal K. , Faruq Mohammed
Published: August 2019

Over 100 genetically distinct causal known loci for hereditary ataxia phenotype poses a challenge for diagnostic work‐up for ataxia patients in a clinically relevant time and precision. In the present study using next‐generation sequencing, we have investigated pathogenic variants in early‐onset cerebellar ataxia cases using whole exome sequencing in singleton/family‐designed and targeted gene‐panel sequencing. A total of 98 index patients were clinically and genetically (whole exome sequencing (WES) in 16 patients and targeted gene panel of 41 ataxia causing genes in 82 patients) evaluated. Four families underwent WES in family based design. Overall, we have identified 24 variants comprising 20 pathogenic and four likely‐pathogenic both rare/novel, variations in 21 early onset cerebellar ataxia patients. Among the identified variations, SACS (n = 7) and SETX (n = 6) were frequent, while ATM (n = 2), TTPA (n = 2) and other rare loci were observed. We have prioritized novel pathogenic variants in RARS2 and FA2H loci through family based design in two out of four families.
Gentrification without Segregation? Race, Immigration, and Renewal in a Diversifying City
Authors: Hwang Jackelyn
Published: August 2019

Research on how neighborhood racial composition affects where gentrification unfolds yields mixed conclusions, but these studies either capture broad national trends or highly segregated cities. Drawing on the case of Seattle—a majority–White city with low segregation levels and growing ethnoracial diversity—this study uncovers an underexplored mechanism shaping patterns of uneven development and residential selection in the contemporary city: immigrant replenishment. The share of all minorities is negatively associated with gentrification during the 1970s and 1980s, and, in contrast to expectations, shares of Blacks positively predict recent gentrification while shares of Asians negatively predict it. Increased concentrations of recent immigrants in neighborhoods with greater shares of Asians explain these relationships. These findings suggest that where arriving immigrants move limits residential selection in gentrification and shifts pressures to low–cost Black neighborhoods. This study highlights how immigration and points of entry are important factors for understanding uneven development in the contemporary city and has implications for the future of racial stratification as cities transform.
Status Aversion, Attraction and Discrepancy as Drivers of Neighborhood Selection
Authors: Galster George , Turner Lena Magnusson
Published: August 2019

Neighborhood income segregation is a widespread phenomenon. We explore its origins by modeling neighborhood selection by native Norwegian households making inter–neighborhood moves, distinguishing influences of shares of three income groups and the discrepancy between the individual household's income and neighborhood median. We conduct a conditional logit analysis employing 2013–2014 population register data from the Oslo, Norway, metropolitan area. We find that status composition (shares of low– and high–income households) and status discrepancy (difference between individual household's and neighborhood median disposable incomes) critically shapes neighborhood selection, though heterogeneously across income groups. All income groups sort into neighborhoods that have more of their own status group in residence. Middle– or high–income households avoid neighborhoods with above–average shares of low–status households and median incomes that are higher than their own. High–income households are more attracted to a place the greater the superiority of their incomes compared to the neighborhood median. Our findings suggest that although the drivers of residential income segregation are powerful, public policies aimed at neighborhood diversification have potential efficacy nevertheless.
Association of donor hypertension and recipient renal function in living donor kidney transplantation: A single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Dienemann Thomas , Schellenberg Jana , Heller Katharina , Daniel Christoph , Amann Kerstin , Hilgers Karl Friedrich , Schiffer Mario , Weidemann Alexander
Published: August 2019

Transplant centers now accept living donors with well‐controlled hypertension. Little is known whether hypertension in living donors affects recipient's kidney function. We aimed to examine potential differences in kidneys from hypertensive donors compared to normotensive donors with respect to renal function over 36 months and histologic findings at transplantation (T0) and 12 months after transplantation (T1). Retrospective single‐center analysis of 174 living donor‐recipient pairs (age > 18; transplantation date 1/2008‐3/2016). Hypertension in donors was defined as being on antihypertensive medication. All biopsies were assessed by the same blinded, experienced renal pathologist. Biopsies were scored for glomerulosclerosis, IFTA, and arteriosclerosis. Regression models were used to examine the relationship of donor hypertension with renal function and histologic changes. Hypertensive donors were significantly older than normotensive donors. Chronic changes such as tubular atrophy and atherosclerosis were more evident in kidneys from hypertensive donors at T0 as well as T1. Donor hypertension was independently associated with histologic changes at T0 and T1 but not with renal function over the follow period. Despite more pronounced histologic changes in kidneys from hypertensive living donors, these grafts exhibited a similar functional outcome. However, they subsequently might be at a greater risk and warrant thorough follow‐up care.
Nitrogen limitation inhibits marine diatom adaptation to high temperatures
Authors: Aranguren‐Gassis María , Kremer Colin T. , Klausmeier Christopher A. , Litchman Elena
Published: August 2019

Ongoing climate change is shifting species distributions and increasing extinction risks globally. It is generally thought that large population sizes and short generation times of marine phytoplankton may allow them to adapt rapidly to global change, including warming, thus limiting losses of biodiversity and ecosystem function. Here, we show that a marine diatom survives high, previously lethal, temperatures after adapting to above‐optimal temperatures under nitrogen (N)‐replete conditions. N limitation, however, precludes thermal adaptation, leaving the diatom vulnerable to high temperatures. A trade‐off between high‐temperature tolerance and increased N requirements may explain why N limitation inhibited adaptation. Because oceanic N limitation is common and likely to intensify in the future, the assumption that phytoplankton will readily adapt to rising temperatures may need to be reevaluated.
Arthrotomy, curettage and medical management of septic arthritis and osteomyelitis of the temporomandibular joint in a horse
Authors: Balducci J. , Ruby J. , Hall C. , Williams J.
Published: August 2019

Osteomyelitis and/or bone sequestra are commonly reported in equids following traumatic wounds. This report describes the clinical management and outcome following an arthrotomy of the temporomandibular joint of a 1‐year‐old Quarter Horse gelding with septic osteomyelitis and arthritis. Computed tomography was used for further assessment of the lesions within the temporomandibular joint and helped guide surgical planning.
Improved diagnostic criteria for digital flexor tendon sheath pathology using contrast tenography
Authors: Kent A. V. , Chesworth M. J. , Wells G. , Gerdes C. , Bladon B. M. , Smith R. K. W. , Fiske‐Jackson A. R.
Published: August 2019

Background

Pathology of the digital flexor tendon sheath is a significant cause of lameness in the horse. Imaging is important to identify lesions and inform on prognosis prior to tenoscopic surgery.

Objectives

To use a large population to evaluate 1) the sensitivity and specificity of digital flexor tendon sheath (DFTS) contrast radiographs in diagnosing manica flexoria (MF) tears, deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) tears and constriction of the palmar/plantar annular ligament (PAL) using novel criteria; 2) predisposition to pathology in signalment and limb affected.

Study design

Multicentre retrospective cohort study.

Methods

The medical records of 206 horses with lameness localised to the DFTS, contrast radiographs and subsequent tenoscopic surgery were reviewed. Breed and limb predispositions were evaluated for pathology of the DDFT, MF and PAL constriction. Contrast radiographs of the DFTS were reviewed by four masked operators and for each pathology the sensitivity, specificity and interobserver variability were calculated.

Results

Contrast tenography was a sensitive test for MF tears (92% confidence interval [CI] 88.4–94.4%; specificity 56%, CI 51.1–61.1%) and specific for diagnosing DDFT tears (73%, CI 68.6–76.8%; sensitivity 54%, CI 47.8–60.2%) but had a lower sensitivity (71%, CI 65.1–75.9% ) and specificity (45%, CI 39.1–52.0%) for PAL constriction. It had good to substantial interobserver agreement for MF and DDFT tears (Krippendorff's alpha 0.68 and 0.46 respectively). Ponies (57%) and cobs (58%) were significantly more likely to be affected with MF tears (other breeds 20–39%, P = 0.003) and Thoroughbreds (50%), warmbloods (45%) and draught breeds (48%) were more likely to have DDFT tears (other breeds 22–34%, P = 0.01). MF tears and PAL constriction were overrepresented in the hindlimbs compared to DDFT tears in forelimbs.

Main limitations

No standardisation of contrast radiographs was possible. The subjectivity of diagnosis of PAL constriction may also have led to bias. Radiographs were read as JPEGS reducing ability to manipulate images.

Conclusions

Contrast radiography of the DFTS is accurate in the pre‐operative diagnosis of DFTS pathologies. Different pathologies are overrepresented in certain breeds and limbs.
Behaviour and mortality of downstream migrating Atlantic salmon smolts at a small power station with multiple migration routes
Authors: Kärgenberg Einar , Thorstad Eva B. , Järvekülg Rein , Sandlund Odd Terje , Saadre Ene , Økland Finn , Thalfeldt Mart , Tambets Meelis
Published: August 2019

Salmon smolts were released upstream of a run‐of‐river hydropower site and recaptured downstream for inspection. Descending fish behaviour through three possible migration routes (turbines, fishway, spillway) was analysed using telemetry, fyke nets and diving. Tagged smolts did not follow the main water flow; over 70% used the fishway, which received only about 10% of the flow. The turbines received about 80% of the water, but <25% of the smolts. Smolts were not fully stopped from entering the turbines by the 25‐mm bar racks. Mortality of smolts passing through the Kaplan turbines was at minimum 36%. No mortality was found in fish moving through the fishway or spillway. This shows that small and fast‐rotating Kaplan turbines can cause relatively high mortality. No mortality in alternative migration routes resulted in a total mortality for descending smolts at the hydropower station of 8.5%, emphasising the importance of providing functional alternative migration routes.
Dimensions underlying frailty indicators in the Kihon Checklist
Authors: Sentandreu‐Mañó Trinidad , Fernández Irene , Cebrià i Iranzo Maria À , Tomás José M
Published: August 2019

Aim

Frailty has become a current topic of debate in recent years among researchers as a key concept of clinical care in old age. One of the scales developed for its measurement is the Kihon Checklist (KCL). However, the dimensionality of the KCL has not been tested yet, and therefore the aim of the present study was to validate its dimensional structure.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study carried out between March and September 2018 in Valencia province (Spain). Participation in the study was voluntary. A total of 251 participants were sampled. They answered sociodemographic and medical indicators, as well as five frailty scales, including the KCL.

Results

Five confirmatory models with different dimensionalities were tested and none of them fit the data well. Therefore, all models were depurated. Goodness of fit indices showed that the best fitting model was a one‐factor solution, with 15 items. This reduced model had very good estimates of internal consistency and showed good levels of criterion‐related validity with four different measures of frailty.

Conclusions

This work constitutes the first study on the dimensionality of the KCL and the first validation of the Spanish version in a Spanish sample of community‐dwelling older adults. A translation exists into Spanish, but there are no data on the reliability and validity of the KCL for its use in Spanish‐speaking countries. The KCL, once depurated, offers a valid and reliable measure of frailty to be used in Spanish‐speaking populations. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 982–987.
Theorizing transnational labour markets: a research heuristic based on the new economic sociology
Authors: MENSE‐PETERMANN URSULA
Published: August 2019

In this article, I suggest that transnational labour markets are characterized by their multi‐layered embeddedness, not only in national but also in transnational institutional settings. Hence, the national institutional factors formerly at the centre of sociological labour market theories insufficiently explain the newly emerging transnational labour markets. To account for the full complexity and institutional context of the latter, I propose an inductive theoretical approach to transnational labour markets and develop a research heuristic to instruct empirical studies about particular transnational labour markets and inductive theory building. This heuristic draws on analytical categories as developed by the new economic sociology of markets. The empirical example of the transnational labour market that matches eastern European workers to jobs in the German meat industry serves to illustrate how one can use this heuristic, which reveals some preliminary features of transnational labour markets compared with national ones, as well as some research gaps to be addressed by future studies.
Chondroblastomas presenting in adulthood: a study of 39 patients with emphasis on histological features and skeletal distribution
Authors: John Ivy , Inwards Carrie Y , Wenger Doris E , Williams Don D , Fritchie Karen J
Published: August 2019

Aims

Chondroblastomas (CB) are rare bone tumours that typically arise in the epiphysis/apophysis of long bones in skeletally immature patients. We explore the clinicopathological features of CB presenting in adults.

Methods and results

CB in patients ≥20 years of age were retrieved from our institutional archives. Thirty‐nine CB were identified (29 male/10 female; aged 20–54 years). Twenty (51%) cases occurred in long tubular bones, 10 (26%) in small bones of the feet, five (13%) in flat bones and four (10%) in the patella. All cases showed classic cytological features of CB, and chondroid matrix was universally present. Calcification was identified in 10 cases (26%), including various combinations of serpiginous (n = 7), punctate (n = 6), classic chicken‐wire (n = 4) and psammomatous (n = 2) patterns. Haemosiderin (n = 19), woven bone (n = 13), secondary aneurysmal bone cyst formation (n = 8), foamy macrophages (n = 4), hyalinised vascular spaces (n = 2) and cholesterol clefts (n = 2) were noted. Follow‐up information (n = 32, 1–452 months) revealed local recurrence in three patients, all >40 years of age with flat bone origin, one of which developed pulmonary metastases 132 months after initial diagnosis.

Conclusions

CB in patients >20 years of age more frequently involves the short bones of the hands/feet and flat bones compared to those arising in their younger counterparts. A subset may harbour extensive serpiginous or psammomatous calcification rather than the classic chicken‐wire pattern. Although the overall local recurrence rate in adulthood is approximately 10%, all three patients with recurrent disease had tumours involving flat bones, suggesting that tumours arising in these sites may behave more aggressively.
Epidemiology and clinical features of keloids in Black Africans: a nested case–control study from Yaoundé, Cameroon
Authors: Kouotou Emmanuel A. , Nansseu Jobert R. , Omona Guissana Edwige , Mendouga Menye Coralie Reine , Akpadjan Fabrice , Tounkara Thiemo M. , Zoung‐Kanyi Bissek Anne‐Cecile , Ndjitoyap Ndam Elie Claude
Published: August 2019

Background

Keloids are a common presenting complaint in Black Africans but remain poorly documented in these populations. The aim of our study was to describe the epidemiological and clinical profiles of patients with keloids seen at dermatology outpatient consultations in Yaoundé (Cameroon) and to determine driving factors of keloid occurrence.

Methods

This was a 1 : 2 case–control study conducted from February to May 2016 at the dermatology unit of five health facilities in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Cases were patients with black skin and diagnosed with keloids while controls had no keloid scar, paired to cases according to age and sex. The diagnosis of keloid was based on clinical history and findings.

Results

Of 2,940 patients seen during the study period, 102 (54.9% females) had keloids, hence a prevalence of 3.5% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.8–4.2). The most affected age group was ≥25 years (69.6%). Lesions at the origin of keloids were mostly traumatic (66.7%). In 68 patients (66.7%), keloid scars were associated with pruritus. The presternal region was the predominant localization (26.5%). Existence of a family history of keloids was significantly associated with presence of keloids (adjusted odds ratio: 4.2, 95% CI: 2.4–7.2; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Keloids commonly affect black skin as recorded during dermatology consultations in Yaoundé, Cameroon. More often, they are secondary to skin trauma and seem to occur among those with a family history of keloids. Therefore, these people should be closely monitored accordingly.
Upregulation of PD‐1 follows tumour development in the AOM/DSS model of inflammation‐induced colorectal cancer in mice
Authors: Yassin Mohammad , Sadowska Zuzanna , Djurhuus Ditte , Nielsen Brian , Tougaard Peter , Olsen Jørgen , Pedersen Anders Elm
Published: August 2019

Chronic inflammation may drive development of cancer as observed in inflammation‐induced colorectal cancer (CRC). Though immune cells can infiltrate the tumour microenvironment, cancer cells seem to evade anti‐tumour responses, which is one of the established hallmarks of cancer. Targeting the programmed cell death protein‐1 (PD‐1)/PD‐L1 signalling pathway is currently at the forefront in the development of anti‐tumour immunity‐based therapies for multiple malignancies. By blocking the immune‐checkpoint of activated T‐cells, it is possible to rewire the adaptive resistance induced by the PD‐1 ligands expressed in the tumour microenvironment. However, adverse immunotherapy‐modulated events could complicate the treatment of individuals with preexisting chronic inflammatory conditions. In this study, we investigated the expression of different systemic and mucosal T‐cell subsets during the course of azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis and colitis‐associated CRC. In addition, we examined the expression of PD‐1 and its ligands PD‐L1 and PD‐L2 as well as other molecular targets related to T‐cell exhaustion. We found a significant increase in PD‐1 expression on all examined mucosal T‐cell subsets of the colon and the ileum, which correlated with disease progression. We also observed an upregulation of PD‐L1 and PD‐L2 mRNA expression throughout the AOM/DSS regime. Blocking PD‐1 signalling with an anti‐PD1 antibody did not affect the tumour burden in the AOM/DSS‐treated mice, but did potentiate the weight loss in the third DSS cycle, indicating possible immune‐mediated toxicity. This raises a concern for patients with colitis‐associated CRCs and should be further investigated.
The contribution of nurses to health policy and advocacy requires leaders to provide training and mentorship
Authors: Turale Sue , Kunaviktikul Wipada
Published: August 2019

At this crucial stage in nursing’s development, key organizations around the world are voicing the need for nurses to become more involved in leadership, advocacy and policymaking. The importance of leadership and health policy training cannot be overemphasized. However, the widespread education and training of nurses about policy is yet to be realized. Moving nurses from being the recipients and implementers of health policy decisions to being leaders with a strong voice in the development or reform of policy will take concerted, strategic effort into the future. We argue that for nurses around the world to take their place at decision‐making tables and to be rightfully engaged in policy, health reform and advocacy, nurse leaders need to provide them with access to well‐thought‐out policy training programmes. This access needs to be wide‐ranging, from exposure to policy knowledge in undergraduate education to more specialized graduate programs focused in every specialization on some aspects of policy, through to a variety of continuing educational opportunities.
Prevalence of co‐occurring psychiatric disorders in adults and adolescents with intellectual disability: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mazza Mario G. , Rossetti Aurora , Crespi Giovanna , Clerici Massimo
Published: August 2019

Background

Subjects with intellectual disability (ID) are vulnerable to experience psychiatric disorders. The present authors performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to estimate the prevalence of co‐occurring psychiatric disorders, excluding co‐occurring autism spectrum disorders, in subjects with intellectual disability.

Method

The present authors performed a random‐effects meta‐analysis of the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in adults and adolescents with intellectual disability.

Results

Twenty‐two studies were included. The pooled prevalence of any co‐occurring psychiatric disorders in intellectual disability was 33.6% (95% CI: 25.2%–43.1%) with high heterogeneity but no publication bias. Prevalence was lower in population‐based studies, in studies that used ICD criteria for the psychopathology and in studies with low risk of bias. The prevalence was higher in mild, moderate and severe intellectual disability than in profound intellectual disability.

Conclusions

Psychiatric disorders are common in subjects with intellectual disability, and the present authors found that clinical and methodological moderators affect the pooled prevalence.
A legacy of geo‐climatic complexity and genetic divergence along the lower Colorado River: Insights from the geological record and 33 desert‐adapted animals
Authors: Dolby Greer A. , Dorsey Rebecca J. , Graham Matthew R.
Published: August 2019

Aim

To review the histories of the Colorado River and North American monsoon system to ascertain their effects on the genetic divergence of desert‐adapted animals.

Location

Lower Colorado River region, including Mojave and Sonoran deserts, United States.

Methods

We synthesized recent geological literature to summarize initiation phases of lower Colorado River evolution, their discrepancies, and potential for post‐vicariance dispersal of animals across the river. We simulated data under geological models and performed a meta‐analysis of published and unpublished genetic data including population diversity metrics, relatedness and historical migration rates to assess alternative divergence hypotheses.

Results

The two models for arrival of the Colorado River into the Gulf of California impose east‐west divergence ages of 5.3 and 4.8 Ma, respectively. We found quantifiable river‐associated differentiation in the lower Colorado River region in reptiles, arachnids and mammals relative to flying insects. However, topological statistics, historical migration rates and cross‐river extralimital populations suggest that the river should be considered a leaky barrier that filters, rather than prevents, gene flow. Most markers violated neutrality tests. Differential adaptation to monsoon‐based precipitation differences may contribute to divergence between Mojave and Sonoran populations and should be tested.

Main Conclusions

Rivers are dynamic features that can both limit and facilitate gene flow through time, the impacts of which are mitigated by species‐specific life history and dispersal traits. The Southwest is a geo‐climatically complex region with the potential to produce pseudocongruent patterns of genetic divergence, offering a good setting to evaluate intermediate levels of geological‐biological (geobiological) complexity.
A prognostic 10‐lncRNA expression signature for predicting the risk of tumour recurrence in breast cancer patients
Authors: Tang Jianing , Ren Jiangbo , Cui Qiuxia , Zhang Dan , Kong Deguang , Liao Xing , Lu Mengxin , Gong Yan , Wu Gaosong
Published: August 2019

Breast cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed malignancies and a leading cause of cancer death among females. Multiple molecular alterations are observed in breast cancer. LncRNA transcripts were proved to play important roles in the biology of tumorigenesis. In this study, we aimed to identify lncRNA expression signature that can predict breast cancer patient survival. We developed a 10‐lncRNA signature‐based risk score which was used to separate patients into high‐risk and low‐risk groups. Patients in the low‐risk group had significantly better survival than those in the high‐risk group. Receiver operating characteristic analysis indicated that this signature exhibited excellent diagnostic efficiency for 1‐, 3‐ and 5‐year disease‐relapse events. Moreover, multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that this 10‐lncRNA signature was an independent risk factor when adjusting for several clinical signatures such as age, tumour size and lymph node status. The prognostic value of risk scores was validated in the validation set. In addition, a nomogram was established and the calibration plots analysis indicated the good performance and clinical utility of the nomogram. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that this 10‐lncRNA signature effectively grouped patients at low and high risk of disease recurrence.
Sex increases the probability of evolutionary rescue in the presence of a competitor
Authors: Petkovic Nikola , Colegrave Nick
Published: August 2019

The explanation for the continued existence of sex, despite its many costs, remains one of the major challenges of evolutionary biology. Previous experimental studies have demonstrated that sex increases the rate of adaptation in novel environments relative to asexual reproduction. Whereas these studies have investigated the impact of sex on adaptation to stressful abiotic environments, the potential for biotic interactions to influence this advantage of sex has been largely ignored. Species rarely exist in isolation in natural conditions, so the impact of sex on adaptation to a stressful abiotic environment may be altered by the interactions between coexisting species. To investigate the interplay of sex and competition on adaptation to deteriorating conditions, we allowed populations of the unicellular alga (Chlamydomonas reinhardtii) to evolve in an environment to which they were initially poorly adapted. We manipulated both their mode of reproduction and the presence of a competitor, and monitored population size and proportion of evolutionary rescue events for each mode of reproduction. The results indicate that sex may be the beneficial strategy in the presence of the competitor. Sexual populations had highest probability of evolutionary rescue irrespective of the presence of the competitor. The overall advantage of sex was also manifested through higher level of adaptedness of survived sexual populations relative to asexual populations. Since competitive interactions are commonplace in nature, one of the explanations for the maintenance of sex by natural selection may be the increased rate of adaptation of sexual populations both in the presence and absence of competitors.
Design, analysis, power, and sample size calculation for three‐phase interrupted time series analysis in evaluation of health policy interventions
Authors: Zhang Bo , Liu Wei , Lemon Stephenie C. , Barton Bruce A. , Fischer Melissa A. , Lawrence Colleen , Rahn Elizabeth J. , Danila Maria I. , Saag Kenneth G. , Harris Paul A. , Allison Jeroan J.
Published: August 2019

Objective

To discuss the study design and data analysis for three‐phase interrupted time series (ITS) studies to evaluate the impact of health policy, systems, or environmental interventions. Simulation methods are used to conduct power and sample size calculation for these studies.

Methods

We consider the design and analysis of three‐phase ITS studies using a study funded by National Institutes of Health as an exemplar. The design and analysis of both one‐arm and two‐arm three‐phase ITS studies are introduced.

Results

A simulation‐based approach, with ready‐to‐use computer programs, was developed to determine the power for two types of three‐phase ITS studies. Simulations were conducted to estimate the power of segmented autoregressive (AR) error models when autocorrelation ranged from −0.9 to 0.9 with various effect sizes. The power increased as the sample size or the effect size increased. The power to detect the same effect sizes varied largely, depending on testing level change, trend changes, or both.

Conclusion

This article provides a convenient tool for investigators to generate sample sizes to ensure sufficient statistical power when three‐phase ITS study design is implemented.
Membrane and calcium clock mechanisms contribute variably as a function of temperature to setting cardiac pacemaker rate in zebrafish Danio rerio
Authors: Marchant James L. , Farrell Anthony P.
Published: August 2019

Here, we show that heart rate in zebrafish Danio rerio is dependent upon two pacemaking mechanisms and it possesses a limited ability to reset the cardiac pacemaker with temperature acclimation. Electrocardiogram recordings, taken from individual, anaesthetised zebrafish that had been acclimated to 18, 23 or 28°C were used to follow the response of maximum heart rate (fHmax) to acute warming from 18°C until signs of cardiac failure appeared (up to c. 40°C). Because fHmax was similar across the acclimation groups at almost all equivalent test temperatures, warm acclimation was limited to one significant effect, the 23°C acclimated zebrafish had a significantly higher (21%) peak fHmax and reached a higher (3°C) test temperature than the 18°C acclimated zebrafish. Using zatebradine to block the membrane hyperpolarisation‐activated cyclic nucleotide–gated channels (HCN) and examine the contribution of the membrane clock mechanisms to cardiac pacemaking, f
Hmax was significantly reduced (by at least 40%) at all acute test temperatures and significantly more so at most test temperatures for zebrafish acclimated to 28°C vs. 23°C. Thus, HCN channels and the membrane clock were not only important, but could be modified by thermal acclimation. Using a combination of ryanodine (to block sarcoplasmic calcium release) and thapsigargin (to block sarcoplasmic calcium reuptake) to examine the contribution of sarcoplasmic reticular handling of calcium and the calcium clock, f
Hmax was again consistently reduced independent of the test temperature and acclimation temperature, but to a significantly lesser degree than zatebradine for zebrafish acclimated to both 28 and 18°C. Thus, the calcium clock mechanism plays an additional role in setting pacemaker activity that was independent of temperature. In conclusion, the zebrafish cardiac pacemaker has a limited temperature acclimation ability compared with known effects for other fishes and involves two pacemaking mechanisms, one of which was independent of temperature.
Development of β‐carotene aerosol formulations using a modified spray dryer
Authors: Lavanya Malur Narayanaswamy , Dutta Sayantani , Moses Jeyan Arthur , Chinnaswamy Anandharamakrishnan
Published: August 2019

The objective of this study was to develop β‐carotene inhalable powders through a modified spray drying process. The conventional spray dryer nozzle was replaced with a nebulizer. The core (β‐carotene) to wall (HPβCD) ratio was varied (1:10, 1:25, and 1:50) to determine its effect on physical properties, aerosolization, and morphology of the powders. Scanning electron microscopy images of particles confirmed the formation of spherical particles with porous surface, with geometric diameters ranging from 2.9 to 3.8 μm. The particles exhibited low density and excellent flowability. Core to wall ratios showed a narrow range of mass median aerodynamic diameters of 3.02, 2.82, and 2.85 μm for 1:10, 1:25, and 1:50, respectively. Around 73–81% of powder was emitted from the dry powder inhaler for all core to wall ratios. The in vitro release of β‐carotene inhalable powder was studied with TRIS buffer for 12 h; it was found that in 1:50 formulation powders, the release was slow and sustained as compared to other formulations, and the release was found to be via diffusion. This approach can be used for developing a range of bioactive inhalable powders for dry powder inhalation applications.

Practical Applications

Development of β‐carotene inhalable powder by modified spray dryer is helpful in achieving the required aerodynamic properties.

By using this method nutrients can be supplemented through lungs in the form of aerosol for effective absorption of the same in blood.

This approach can be used for developing a range of bioactive inhalable powders for dry powder inhalation applications.
Effects of a home‐based nursing intervention programme among adolescents with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Gürkan Kübra Pınar , Bahar Zühal , Böber Ece
Published: August 2019

Aims and objective

To investigate the effects of a home‐based nursing intervention programme established based on the Health Promotion Model on the health outcomes of adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Background

After diagnosed with diabetes, it is necessary to ensure that nursing care is not limited to the hospital setting but continues at home.

Design

A quasi‐experimental design with a pre‐ and post‐test control group was used. The researchers have complied with the guidelines of TREND Checklist in presenting this study.

Method

This study was conducted in İzmir, Turkey, with 71 adolescents (35 in an intervention group and 36 in a control group) diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus who were registered at the paediatric endocrinology outpatient clinics of two hospitals and were selected using the convenience sampling method between June–December 2017. A home‐based nursing intervention programme (5 week) was provided to the intervention group while standard care was provided to the control group. Data were collected at the baseline, and 3 and 6 months after a 5‐week home‐based nursing intervention. Multi‐way and one‐way analysis of variance, the Bonferroni correction, regression analysis, t test, chi‐squared analysis and a structural equation model were used for data analysis of the iterative measurements.

Results

At the end of the home‐based nursing intervention programme, the HbA1c mean scores significantly decreased, while self‐efficacy perception, frequency of managing diabetes and taking responsibility in managing diabetes increased in the intervention group compared to those in the control group. Frequency of admission to the hospital and average costs were lower in the intervention group than in control group. The home‐based nursing intervention programme using structural equation modelling increased the frequency of managing diabetes and taking responsibility in managing diabetes and decreased HbA1c levels.

Conclusion

The home‐based nursing intervention programme was effective in decreasing HbA1c levels, increasing the frequency of diabetes management and taking responsibility in managing diabetes, and improving the self‐efficacy of the adolescents.

Relevance to clinical practice

The home‐based nursing intervention programme can be applied by nurses to ease the transition of adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus and their parents to healthy daily life practices and ensure their glycemic controls after being discharged.
Fracture Resistance of Additively Manufactured Zirconia Crowns when Cemented to Implant Supported Zirconia Abutments: An in vitro Study
Authors: Zandinejad Amirali , Methani Mohammad Mujtaba , Schneiderman Emet D. , Revilla‐León Marta , BDS Dean Morton
Published: August 2019

Purpose

To compare the fracture resistance of implant‐supported milled zirconia, milled lithium disilicate, and additively manufactured zirconia crowns.

Materials and Methods

Maxillary cast with a dental implant replacing right second bicuspid was obtained. Custom abutments and full‐contour crowns for milled zirconia, milled lithium disilicate, and additively manufactured zirconia crowns (n = 10/group) were digitally designed and fabricated. The crowns were cemented to implant‐supported zirconia abutments and mounted onto polyurethane blocks. Fracture resistance was determined by vertical force application using a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 2 mm/minute. Kruskal‐Wallis test was used to analyze data and failure mode was determined for all the groups.

Results

Milled zirconia crowns demonstrated the highest median fracture resistance (1292 ± 189 N), followed by milled lithium disilicate (1289 ± 142 N) and additively manufactured zirconia (1243.5 ± 265.5 N) crowns. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in fracture resistance between the groups (p = 0.4). All specimens fractured at the implant‐abutment interface.

Conclusion

Additively manufactured zirconia crowns demonstrated similar fracture resistance to milled ceramic crowns, when cemented to implant supported zirconia abutments. The results of this in vitro study signify the promising potential of additive manufacturing for the fabrication of all ceramic zirconia crowns.
Who provides open‐ended comments? Assessing item nonresponse bias in Medicaid surveys of members and dentists
Authors: Reynolds Julie C. , McKernan Susan C. , Sukalski Jennifer M. C.
Published: August 2019

Objectives

This aim of this study was to examine factors associated with survey item nonresponse to open‐ended items in mailed surveys.

Methods

Data sources include two surveys conducted in Iowa in 2016 – one to a random sample of Medicaid dental program members and one to private practice dentists. Item nonresponse bias for open‐ended comments was examined by comparing differences between commenters and noncommenters. Bivariate and logistic regression analyses examined differences based on demographic characteristics, attitudes, and experiences with the program, and survey mode.

Results

Among members, respondents who were Black, older, unemployed, had a recent dental visit, rated the plan poorly, and completed the survey on paper were significantly more likely to provide comment. Among dentists, those who participated in the plan and those who completed the survey online were significantly more likely to provide comment.

Conclusions

Members and dentists with direct experiences with the Medicaid dental program were more likely to provide open‐ended survey comments, whereas we found inconsistent results between members and dentists with regard to the impact of demographic characteristics, survey mode, and attitude toward the plan.
The two stories of the habitus/structure relation and the riddle of reflexivity: A meta‐theoretical reappraisal
Authors: Bouzanis Christoforos , Kemp Stephen
Published: August 2019

This article argues that two key puzzles arising from the theories of Bourdieu are inter‐related. One is the question of how Bourdieu analyses the relationship between structure and habitus, and the other is the place of reflexivity in Bourdieu's work. We contend that it is only by carefully analysing Bourdieu's theoretical structure to grasp the relationship between these elements that one can understand whether or not his work offers useful resources for analysing the relation between routine action and self‐reflection. This paper argues that there are two narrations of the structure/habitus relation in Bourdieu's work, and that the concept of self‐reflective subjectivity is a residual element of the first narration and does not appear in the second. We then contend that this residual and under‐developed concept of self‐reflective subjectivity should not be confused with Bourdieu's analysis of epistemic reflexivity. These moves allow us to contribute to ongoing debates about the relation between routine action and self‐reflection by arguing that the concept of the “reflexive habitus” – which some have argued is characteristic of social agents in high/late modernity – is both conceptually confused and is not a logical extension of Bourdieu's theories. In this way we try to clear the ground for more productive ways of thinking about routine action and self‐reflection.
Diverging shifts in spring phenology in response to biodiversity loss in a subtropical forest
Authors: Du Yanjun , Yang Bo , Chen Si‐Chong , Ma Keping
Published: August 2019

Questions

Despite our increased understanding of how climate change influences plant phenology, it remains poorly understood whether diversity loss could alter phenology as well. Here we investigated the following: (a) do changes in plant diversity affect leaf‐out and flowering dates for woody species; (b) which group of variables are more important in influencing leaf‐out and flowering dates, abiotic variables (soil variables) or biotic variables (plant diversity)?

Study site

A subtropical forest in the Biodiversity–Ecosystem Functioning Experiment of China, located in Jiangxi Province, China.

Methods

Species were planted in various combinations to create plots with varying tree richness: 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 or 24 species. We monitored leaf‐out and flowering dates of eight randomly selected species in 17 plots in 2018. A linear model was used to test whether species diversity was a predictor of leaf‐out/flowering times for each species. We then fit linear mixed‐effects models to assess the combined influence of species diversity, soil Total Carbon and Total Nitrogen on the overall community.

Results

In the low‐diversity plots, we found two species leafing out earlier, one leafing out later and four showing no significant difference. Leaf‐out date advanced an average of 0.3 days per species lost. Of all the biotic and abiotic predictor variables, Total Nitrogen was the only one significantly correlated with leaf‐out date. No significant correlation was found between species diversity and flowering date for any of the species.

Conclusions

Our study provides the first empirical evidence concerning the effects of biodiversity loss on plant spring phenology for woody species. Our findings illustrate that fluctuation in plant diversity could alter the timing of leaf‐out and that abiotic variables may be more important than biotic variables in determining leaf‐out dates in subtropical forest. Overall, declining diversity may exacerbate the phenological changes attributed to rising global temperatures.
Chronological distribution of the tiger Panthera tigris and the Asiatic lion Panthera leo persica in their common range in Asia
Authors: Schnitzler Annik , Hermann Luc
Published: August 2019

Highly mobile creatures with remarkable exploratory behaviour, the modern tiger Panthera tigris and the modern Asiatic lion Panthera leo persica colonised Eurasia during the Late Pleistocene (from 126000 ± 5000 to 11700 years before present, BP) and the Holocene (from 11700 BP to the present day). Their respective ranges have overlapped several times but we tend to ignore the extent to which they have really coexisted because this situation has not occurred in recent times.

We provide a state‐of‐the‐art review of all the data covering their chronological distribution, in order to evaluate the extent to which they have coexisted. We include new data from petroglyph analysis in Central Asia.

The data set covers two major biogeographical regions: the Palearctic Biogeographic Realm (western Asia and Central Asia) and the Indo‐Malaysian Biogeographic Realm in Monsoon Asia.

Lions and tigers shared space with a large variety of medium‐sized carnivores. We can hypothesise that, due to the plentiful prey and the diversity in habitats within their common range, they lived in sympatry there during the Holocene (although in local allopatry), as long as human interference was low.

The Indo‐Malaysian Biogeographic Realm offered the best habitats for coexistence due to the tropical climate, the variety of habitats, and the great diversity in prey. In temperate Asia, the carrying capacity was naturally lower due to cold winters and dry summers, except along the coasts. Suitable habitats were limited, in Central Asia, to the tugais of the alluvial valleys and the adjacent steppes. In this region, lions were particularly sensitive to stresses, due to their low adaptability to harsh winters, the long distance to their main population sources, and the likelihood that they were pushed into the steppes by tigers, where they were killed by humans, for symbolic or pragmatic reasons.