bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Back to the future: routine morphological assessment of the tumour microenvironment is prognostic in stage II/III colon cancer in a large population‐based study
Authors: Hynes Seán O , Coleman Helen G , Kelly Paul J , Irwin Steven , O'Neill Roisin F , Gray Ronan T , McGready Claire , Dunne Philip D , McQuaid Stephen , James Jacqueline A , Salto‐Tellez Manuel , Loughrey Maurice B
Published: February 2017

Aims

Both morphological and molecular approaches have highlighted the biological and prognostic importance of the tumour microenvironment in colorectal cancer (CRC). Despite this, microscopic assessment of the tumour microenvironment has not been adopted into routine practice. The study aim was to identify those tumour microenvironmental features that are most likely to provide prognostic information and be feasible to use in routine pathology reporting practice.

Methods and results

On the basis of existing evidence, we selected specific morphological features relating to peritumoral inflammatory and stromal responses, agreed criteria for scoring, and assessed these in representative haematoxylin and eosin (H&E)‐stained whole tumour sections from a population‐based cohort of 445 stage II/III colon cancer cases. Moderate/severe peritumoral diffuse lymphoid inflammation and Crohn's disease‐like reaction were associated with significantly reduced risks of CRC‐specific death [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 0.48, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.31–0.76, and HR 0.60, 95% CI 0.42–0.84, respectively]. The presence of >50% tumour stromal percentage, as assessed by global evaluation of tumour area, was associated with a significantly increased risk of CRC‐specific death (HR 1.60 95% CI 1.06–2.41). A composite ‘fibroinflammatory score’ (0–3), combining dichotomized scores of these three features, showed a highly significant association with survival outcomes. Those with a score of ≥2 had an almost 2.5‐fold increased risk of CRC‐specific death (HR 2.44, 95% CI 1.56–3.81) as compared with those scoring zero. These associations were stronger in microsatellite instability (MSI)‐high tumours, potentially identifying a subset of MSI‐high colon cancers that lack characteristic morphological features and have an associated worse prognosis.

Conclusions

In summary, reporting on H&E staining of selected microscopic features of the tumour microenvironment, independently or in combination, offers valuable prognostic information in stage II/III colon cancer, and may allow morphological correlation with developing molecular classifications of prognostic and predictive relevance.
Behaviours of students who have repeated urinary tract infections
Authors: Yıldırım Julide Gulizar
Published: February 2017

To determine the behaviours of students and the variables that have an effect on repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs). A cross‐sectional study was implemented on elementary and high school students in Izmir, Turkey. The sample consisted of 318 volunteers from the 6–17 years of age students. Written consent was obtained from parents and institutions. The data were collected through sociodemographic characteristics and a behavioural assessment semi‐structured design questionnaire. The data for closed‐ended questions were evaluated for frequencies, variance, Chi‐square and logistic regression. Content analysis was used for examining the open‐ended questions. Students' mean age was 10·28 ± 2·27 (6–15 years of age), 68·2% were females and 70·4% were in elementary school. Of the students, 26·1% avoided using school toilets, 70·4% held urine too long and 30·2% cleaned the perineum from back‐to‐front. In the prediction of the factors that affect students' behaviours with ages, it was determined that ‘washed the genital area after defecation/urination’, ‘method of cleaning the perineum’, ‘urination status at school’, ‘enuresis’, ‘frequency of changing underwear’ and ‘washing hands before going to the toilet’ increased linearly with age (p < 0·05). Most of the students may have negative perceptions about toilet habits. Students' behaviours are important for improving social well‐being. Health professionals and teachers serve a key role in the psychosocial development of students. They can develop individualized health care plans and help parents and students to understand strategies that can prevent UTIs.
Successful reintroduction of the Critically Endangered Antiguan racer Alsophis antiguae to offshore islands in Antigua, West Indies
Authors: Daltry J. C. , Lindsay K. , Lawrence S. N. , Morton M. N. , Otto A. , Thibou A.
Published: February 2017

The Critically Endangered Antiguan racer Alsophis antiguae is endemic to Antigua and Barbuda (441 km2 area) but declined following the arrival of invasive mammals. By 1995, only an estimated 51 Antiguan racers survived on an offshore islet (Great Bird Island: 8·4 ha), many of which had injuries consistent with rat bites. To prevent extinction, a consortium of national and international organizations eradicated the Black rats Rattus rattus from Great Bird Island in 1995 and the snake population promptly doubled in size. The agencies then embarked on a programme to eradicate invasive rats and, where present, Small Asian mongooses Herpestes javanicus from a further 14 islands around Antigua. The first reintroduction was carried out in November 1999, with ten wild racers translocated from Great Bird Island to Rabbit Island. Further reintroductions followed to Green Island (from October 2002) and York Island (from January 2008), bringing the total area of occupancy for racers to 63 ha. The translocated racers appeared to thrive in their new habitats and reproduced almost immediately. The reintroduction programme was underpinned by field research, fundraising and an innovative education campaign to address prevailing negative attitudes towards snakes. While the Antiguan racer metapopulation has increased to > 1100 individuals in the wild, lasting success depends on Great Bird, Rabbit, Green and York Islands being fully protected from invasive mammals and harmful developments. To spread the risk, additional reintroduction sites must be identified.
Metabolic syndrome and masked hypertension among African Americans: The Jackson Heart Study
Authors: Colantonio Lisandro D. , Anstey D. Edmund , Carson April P. , Ogedegbe Gbenga , Abdalla Marwah , Sims Mario , Shimbo Daichi , Muntner Paul
Published: February 2017

The metabolic syndrome is associated with higher ambulatory blood pressure. The authors studied the association of metabolic syndrome and masked hypertension (MHT) among African Americans with clinic‐measured systolic/diastolic blood pressure (SBP/DBP) <140/90 mm Hg in the Jackson Heart Study. MHT was defined as daytime, nighttime, or 24‐hour hypertension on ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. Among 359 participants not taking antihypertensive medication, the metabolic syndrome was associated with MHT (prevalence ratio, 1.38; 95% confidence interval, 1.10–1.74]). When metabolic syndrome components (clinic SBP/DBP 130–139/85–89 mm Hg, abdominal obesity, impaired glucose, low high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, high triglycerides) were analyzed separately, only clinic SBP/DBP 130–139/85–89 mm Hg was associated with MHT (prevalence ratio, 1.90; 95% confidence interval, 1.56–2.32]). The metabolic syndrome was not associated with MHT among participants not taking antihypertensive medication with SBP/DBP 130–139/85–89 and <130/85 mm Hg, separately, or among participants taking antihypertensive medication (n=393). Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring screening for MHT among African Americans should be considered based on clinic BP, not metabolic syndrome.
Behaviour of growth hormone transgenic coho salmon Oncorhynchus kisutch in marine mesocosms assessed by acoustic tag telemetry
Authors: Hollo T. , Watson B. M. , Johnston S.V. , Devlin R. H.
Published: February 2017

Underwater acoustic tag telemetry was used to assess behavioural differences between juvenile wild‐type (i.e. non‐transgenic, NT) and growth hormone (GH) transgenic (T) coho salmon Oncorhynchus kisutch in a contained simulated ocean environment. T O. kisutch were found across days to maintain higher baseline swimming speeds than NT O. kisutch and differences in response to feeding were detected between T and NT genotypes. This is the first study to assess behaviour of GH transgenic salmonids in a marine environment and has relevance for assessing whether behavioural effects of GH overexpression seen in freshwater environments can be extrapolated to oceanic phases of the life cycle.
Anthropogenic Disturbance by Domestic Extraction of Construction Minerals in Japan
Authors: Yoshida Keisuke , Okuoka Keijiro , Tanikawa Hiroki
Published: February 2017

Accompanying the huge amount of material accumulation in the socioeconomic sphere is anthropogenic disturbance, namely, artificial landform transformation attributed to mining, soil excavation, construction, and physical development. Anthropogenic disturbance impacts the natural environment and is strongly related to hidden material flow (HMF). However, only few studies have considered anthropogenic disturbance as the starting point of material transfer in the ecosphere. The objectives of the present study are: (1) to spatially quantify the impact of humans on the natural environment by estimating the anthropogenic disturbance attributed to mining and (2) to contribute to the knowledge of HMF by examining the phenomenon using the relatively unexplored methodology of assessing the relationship between anthropogenic disturbance and material transfer by means of a geographical information system and digital elevation model. Statistical data obtained by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan were used to account for domestic extraction. By comparing the respective results of bottom‐up and top‐down accountings, we estimated the potential HMF. The database developed in this study not only reflects the amount of anthropogenic disturbance and potential HMF, but also reveals their destructive effect on the environment and the spatial distribution of anthropogenic disturbance.
Calcipotriol inhibits α‐synuclein aggregation in SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells by a Calbindin‐D28k‐dependent mechanism
Authors: Rcom‐H'cheo‐Gauthier Alexandre N. , Meedeniya Adrian C. B. , Pountney Dean L.
Published: February 2017

Many neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by the formation of microscopically visible intracellular protein aggregates. α‐Synuclein is the key aggregating protein in Parkinson's disease which is characterized by neuronal cytoplasmic Lewy body inclusions. Previous studies have shown relative sparing of neurons in Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies that are positive for the vitamin D‐dependent calcium‐buffering protein, calbindin‐D28k, and that α‐synuclein aggregates are excluded from calbindin‐D28k‐positive neurons. Recent cell culture studies have shown that α‐synuclein aggregation can be induced by raised intracellular‐free Ca(II) and demonstrated that raised intracellular calcium and oxidative stress can act synergistically to promote α‐synuclein aggregation. We hypothesized that calcipotriol, a potent vitamin D analogue used pharmaceutically, may be able to suppress calcium‐dependent α‐synuclein aggregation by inducing calbindin‐D28k expression. Immunofluorescence and western blot analysis showed that calcipotriol potently induced calbindin‐D28k in a dose‐dependent manner in SH‐SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells. Calcipotriol significantly decreased the frequency of α‐synuclein aggregate positive cells subjected to treatments that cause raised intracellular‐free Ca(II) (potassium depolarization, KCl/H2O2 combined treatment, and rotenone) in a dose‐dependent manner and increased viability. Suppression of calbindin‐D28k expression in calcipotriol‐treated cells using calbindin‐D28k‐specific siRNA showed significantly higher α‐synuclein aggregation levels, indicating that calcipotriol‐mediated blocking of calcium‐dependent α‐synuclein aggregation was dependent on the induction of calbindin‐D28k expression. These data indicate that targeting raised intraneuronal‐free Ca(II) in the brain by promoting the expression of calbindin‐D28k at the transcriptional level using calcipotriol could prevent α‐synuclein aggregate formation and ameliorate Parkinson's disease pathogenesis.

image
Comparison of hair removal efficacy and side effect of neodymium:Yttrium‐aluminum‐garnet laser and intense pulsed light systems (18‐month follow‐up)
Authors: Szima Georgina Zita , Janka Eszter Anna , Kovács Anikó , Bortély Blanka , Bodnár Edina , Sawhney Irina , Szabó Éva , Remenyik Éva
Published: February 2017

Background

Photothermal destruction of hair shaft melanin with intense pulsed light (IPL) and neodymium:yttrium‐aluminum‐garnet (Nd:YAG) laser has become an effective treatment of hair removal.

Aims

Our aim was to compare efficacy, satisfactory levels, safety, and side effects of Nd:YAG and IPL in hair reduction.

Methods

This was a prospective randomized intrapatient, right‐left, assessor‐blinded comparison of Nd:YAG vs IPL. There were 38 volunteers recruited. Seven sessions were performed. Hair count, efficacy, and side effects were compared before and after each treatment and 6 months after the last treatment. In respect of 12 volunteers, we have examined the reduction in hair after 18 months.

Results

Initially, there was no significant difference between the numbers of hair follicles. There was significant hair reduction after each treatment on the Nd:YAG‐treated side. The hair reduction became significant after the third treatment with IPL. Comparison of the efficacy of the two devices on each visits showed no significant difference. There was statistically lower pain score on the IPL‐treated side and statistically higher erythema, burning sensation, and edema on the Nd:YAG‐treated side. Statistically lower side effect score was observed on the IPL‐treated side. Eight months after the last treatment, there was significant hair reduction both on the Nd:YAG and on the IPL‐treated side, and there was no difference between the efficacy. The patient satisfaction scores were higher with the IPL.

Conclusion

Unwanted hair can be reduced by both systems safely and effectively; however, IPL has less side effects and higher satisfaction scores.
Cardiotocographic parameters in small‐for‐gestational‐age fetuses: How do they vary from normal at different gestational ages? A study of 11687 fetuses from 25 to 40 weeks of pregnancy
Authors: Amorim‐Costa Célia , de Campos Diogo Ayres , Bernardes João
Published: February 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess how cardiotocographic (CTG) parameters differ between small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) and normal fetuses at different gestational ages.

Methods

This was a retrospective cross‐sectional study using the first antepartum tracing of singleton pregnancies with no malformations. Fetuses with birthweight ≥10th percentile for gestational age and other normal pregnancy outcome criteria (term birth, normal umbilical artery pH and Apgar scores, no intensive care unit admission) were compared with fetuses with birthweight <10th and <3rd percentiles for gestational age (SGA < p10 and SGA < p3, a subgroup of the latter). Each CTG parameter was compared, by gestational age, using both statistical tests and percentile curves derived from normal outcome cases. Tracings were analyzed with the OmniviewSisPorto® 3.7 system.

Results

A total of 11 687 tracings (from the same number of fetuses) were analyzed: 9701 normal, 1986 SGA < p10, and 543 SGA < p3. SGA fetuses had lower long‐ and short‐term variability, and number of accelerations, with more pronounced differences between around 28 and 35 weeks. In contrast, baseline was lower in SGA fetuses from 34 weeks onwards. All differences were more pronounced for SGA < p3 fetuses. Similar trends throughout gestation occurred in all groups: decrease in baseline, and increase in long‐ and short‐term variability, and accelerations.

Conclusions

This study represents an important step for accurate CTG interpretation in SGA fetuses and, consequently, management of fetal growth restriction (FGR), as it contributes to differentiate between maturational CTG changes that occur physiologically throughout pregnancy, and possible signs of fetal compromise in FGR.
Intrauterine death rate in gastroschisis following the introduction of an antenatal surveillance program: Retrospective observational study
Authors: Perry Helen , Healy Costa , Wellesley Diana , Hall Nigel J. , Drewett Melanie , Burge David M. , Howe David T.
Published: February 2017

Aim

To investigate whether an antenatal surveillance protocol including ultrasound and cardiotocograph monitoring reduces intrauterine death (IUD) in cases of gastroschisis. Secondary outcomes included neonatal death rate, mode of delivery and rate of intervention before planned time of delivery.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study of all women with antenatally diagnosed gastroschisis who were managed according to the surveillance program between 2002 and 2015 in a tertiary fetal medicine and pediatric surgical center covering the Wessex region of England. We reviewed and analyzed data from the Wessex Antenatally Detected Anomalies (WANDA) database as well as prospectively managed maternity, ultrasound and neonatal databases over the given time period. Case notes were reviewed when delivery was expedited.

Results

The IUD rate was 2.2%, a 58% reduction since the introduction of the surveillance protocol. Delivery was expedited in 35.4% of cases, and in 86% of these, delivery was by cesarean section. In women being induced as planned at 38 weeks, the vaginal delivery rate was 88%, and for those in spontaneous labor before 38 weeks it was 75%.

Conclusions

An antenatal surveillance program appears to reduce the IUD in gastroschisis. In one‐third of cases, delivery was indicated before the planned date of delivery. When expedited delivery was indicated, the chance of cesarean section was high.
Different physiological responses of cyanobacteria to ultraviolet‐B radiation under iron‐replete and iron‐deficient conditions: Implications for underestimating the negative effects of UV‐B radiation
Authors: Li Zheng‐Ke , Dai Guo‐Zheng , Juneau Philippe , Qiu Bao‐Sheng
Published: February 2017

Iron deficiency has been considered one of the main limiting factors of phytoplankton productivity in some aquatic systems including oceans and lakes. Concomitantly, solar ultraviolet‐B radiation has been shown to have both deleterious and positive impacts on phytoplankton productivity. However, how iron‐deficient cyanobacteria respond to UV‐B radiation has been largely overlooked in aquatic systems. In this study, physiological responses of four cyanobacterial strains (Microcystis and Synechococcus), which are widely distributed in freshwater or marine systems, were investigated under different UV‐B irradiances and iron conditions. The growth, photosynthetic pigment composition, photosynthetic activity, and nonphotochemical quenching of the different cyanobacterial strains were drastically altered by enhanced UV‐B radiation under iron‐deficient conditions, but were less affected under iron‐replete conditions. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and iron content increased and decreased, respectively, with increased UV‐B radiation under iron‐deficient conditions for both Microcystis aeruginosa FACHB 912 and Synechococcus sp. WH8102. On the contrary, intracellular ROS and iron content of these two strains remained constant and increased, respectively, with increased UV‐B radiation under iron‐replete conditions. These results indicate that iron‐deficient cyanobacteria are more susceptible to enhanced UV‐B radiation. Therefore, UV‐B radiation probably plays an important role in influencing primary productivity in iron‐deficient aquatic systems, suggesting that its effects on the phytoplankton productivity may be underestimated in iron‐deficient regions around the world.
Ocean acidification and kelp development: Reduced pH has no negative effects on meiospore germination and gametophyte development of Macrocystis pyrifera and Undaria pinnatifida
Authors: Leal Pablo P. , Hurd Catriona L. , Fernández Pamela A. , Roleda Michael Y.
Published: February 2017

The absorption of anthropogenic CO2 by the oceans is causing a reduction in the pH of the surface waters termed ocean acidification (OA). This could have substantial effects on marine coastal environments where fleshy (non‐calcareous) macroalgae are dominant primary producers and ecosystem engineers. Few OA studies have focused on the early life stages of large macroalgae such as kelps. This study evaluated the effects of seawater pH on the ontogenic development of meiospores of the native kelp Macrocystis pyrifera and the invasive kelp Undaria pinnatifida, in south‐eastern New Zealand. Meiospores of both kelps were released into four seawater pH treatments (pHT 7.20, extreme OA predicted for 2300; pHT 7.65, OA predicted for 2100; pHT 8.01, ambient pH; and pHT 8.40, pre‐industrial pH) and cultured for 15 d. Meiospore germination, germling growth rate, and gametophyte size and sex ratio were monitored and measured. Exposure to reduced pHT (7.20 and 7.65) had positive effects on germling growth rate and gametophyte size in both M. pyrifera and U. pinnatifida, whereas, higher pHT (8.01 and 8.40) reduced the gametophyte size in both kelps. Sex ratio of gametophytes of both kelps was biased toward females under all pHT treatments, except for U. pinnatifida at pHT 7.65. Germling growth rate under OA was significantly higher in M. pyrifera compared to U. pinnatifida but gametophyte development was equal for both kelps under all seawater pHT treatments, indicating that the microscopic stages of the native M. pyrifera and the invasive U. pinnatifida will respond similarly to OA.
Phylogenetic study of the tribe Potentilleae (Rosaceae), with further insight into the disintegration of Sibbaldia
Authors: Feng Tao , Moore Michael J. , Yan Min‐Hui , Sun Yan‐Xia , Zhang Hua‐Jie , Meng Ai‐Ping , Li Xiao‐Dong , Jian Shu‐Guang , Li Jian‐Qiang , Wang Heng‐Chang
Published: February 2017

Potentilleae, one of 10 tribes of the Rosaceae, are mainly distributed in alpine regions of the Northern Hemisphere. The taxonomy of Potentilleae has been challenging due to extensive hybridization, polyploidization, and/or apomixis characterizing several genera of Potentilleae, such as Alchemilla, Argentina, and Potentilla. To help clarify relationships within Potentilleae, a phylogenetic analysis of the tribe with an emphasis on the polyphyletic genus Sibbaldia was carried out using nuclear ribosomal internal and external transcribed spacer regions and the plastid trnL‐F and trnS‐G spacer regions. In agreement with previous phylogenetic analyses, three major clades were identified in the present study: the subtribe Fragariinae, the genera Argentina, and Potentilla. The 15 species of Sibbaldia were recovered in five distinct clades: three in subtribe Fragariinae, one in Argentina, and the last in Potentilla. The recently established genus Chamaecallis, comprising a single species formerly treated in Sibbaldia that has intermediate floral character states with respect to Fragariinae and Potentilla, was recovered as sister to Drymocallis. Morphological character state reconstruction indicated that a reduction in the number of stamens (≤10) is a derived character state that has arisen multiple times in Potentilleae. Molecular dating analyses agreed with previously published estimates and suggested that crown group Potentilleae arose in the Middle to Late Eocene, with most generic‐level divergences occurring in the Oligocene and Miocene.
A class C radical S‐adenosylmethionine methyltransferase synthesizes 8‐methylmenaquinone
Authors: Hein Sascha , Klimmek Oliver , Polly Markus , Kern Melanie , Simon Jörg
Published: February 2017

The membranous quinone/quinol pool is essential to the majority of life forms and has been widely used as an important biomarker in microbial taxonomy. In the anaerobic world, the most important quinones are menaquinone (MK) and a methylated form of MK, designated methylmenaquinone (MMK), which is anticipated to serve specifically in low‐potential electron transport chains involved in anaerobic respiration. However, it has remained unclear how MMK is generated. Here, we show that a novel enzyme homologous to class C radical SAM methyltransferases (RSMTs) synthesizes MMK using MK as substrate. Such enzymes, termed either MenK or MqnK, are present in MMK‐producing bacteria (and some archaea) that possess either the classical MK biosynthesis pathway (Men) or the futalosine pathway (Mqn). An mqnK deletion mutant of the model Epsilonproteobacterium Wolinella succinogenes was unable to produce MMK6 but its formation was restored upon genomic complementation using either the native mqnK gene or menK from the human gut bacterium Adlercreutzia equolifaciens or Shewanella oneidensis. Moreover, any of the menK genes enabled Escherichia coli cells to produce MMK8 and a methylated form of 2‐demethylmenaquinone8 (DMK8). The results expand the knowledge on quinone synthesis and demonstrate an unprecedented function for a class C RSMT‐type enzyme in primary cell metabolism.
Exclusion of assembled MreB by anionic phospholipids at cell poles confers cell polarity for bidirectional growth
Authors: Kawazura Takuma , Matsumoto Kanon , Kojima Koki , Kato Fumiya , Kanai Tomomi , Niki Hironori , Shiomi Daisuke
Published: February 2017

Cell polarity determines the direction of cell growth in bacteria. MreB actin spatially regulates peptidoglycan synthesis to enable cells to elongate bidirectionally. MreB densely localizes in the cylindrical part of the rod cell and not in polar regions in Escherichia coli. When treated with A22, which inhibits MreB polymerization, rod‐shaped cells became round and MreB was diffusely distributed throughout the cytoplasmic membrane. A22 removal resulted in restoration of the rod shape. Initially, diffuse MreB started to re‐assemble, and MreB‐free zones were subsequently observed in the cytoplasmic membrane. These MreB‐free zones finally became cell poles, allowing the cells to elongate bidirectionally. When MreB was artificially located at the cell poles, an additional pole was created, indicating that artificial localization of MreB at the cell pole induced local peptidoglycan synthesis. It was found that the anionic phospholipids (aPLs), phosphatidylglycerol and cardiolipin, which were enriched in cell poles preferentially interact with monomeric MreB compared with assembled MreB in vitro. MreB tended to localize to cell poles in cells lacking both aPLs, resulting in production of Y‐shaped cells. Their findings indicated that aPLs exclude assembled MreB from cell poles to establish cell polarity, thereby allowing cells to elongate in a particular direction.
Insights into grass phenology from herbarium specimens
Authors: Primack Richard B. , Gallinat Amanda S.
Published: February 2017

This article is a Commentary on Munson & Long, 213: 1945–1955.
An exploration of caregiver choice through the lens of Sartrean existentialism
Authors: Corey Kristin L. , McCurry Mary K.
Published: February 2017

There are innumerable social and ethical factors which affect one's decision to become an informal caregiver for someone with chronic illness. The existential philosophy of Jean‐Paul Sartre provides unique insight into human motivation and choice. The purpose of this paper was to examine the social and ethical influences on the individual's decision to become a caregiver through the lens of Sartrean existentialism and discuss how this unique philosophy can advance nursing knowledge. The factors affecting one's choice to become a caregiver were considered using the Sartrean existential concepts of The Other, human freedom, choice, bad faith, shame and authenticity. When explored through the perspective of Sartrean existentialism, the choice to become a caregiver is strongly influenced by fear of judgement from The Other and the resulting sense of social obligation and shame. However, the interaction with The Other often results in the loss of authenticity through the pursuit of bad faith. To avert bad faith, potential caregivers must act authentically by exercising their freedom to choose and by choosing an action for its own sake and not for some extraneous purpose. The results of this philosophical inquiry contribute to nursing knowledge by providing a unique, alternative perspective by which nurses may understand the choices of potential caregivers and support them in making authentic decisions. This perspective may provide a foundation for theory development and promote further nursing knowledge which will improve caregiver health and well‐being.
Applications of geographic information systems (GIS) data and methods in obesity‐related research
Authors: Jia P. , Cheng X. , Xue H. , Wang Y.
Published: February 2017

Geographic information systems (GIS) data/methods offer good promise for public health programs including obesity‐related research. This study systematically examined their applications and identified gaps and limitations in current obesity‐related research. A systematic search of PubMed for studies published before 20 May 2016, utilizing synonyms for GIS in combination with synonyms for obesity as search terms, identified 121 studies that met our inclusion criteria. We found primary applications of GIS data/methods in obesity‐related research included (i) visualization of spatial distribution of obesity and obesity‐related phenomena, and basic obesogenic environmental features, and (ii) construction of advanced obesogenic environmental indicators. We found high spatial heterogeneity in obesity prevalence/risk and obesogenic environmental factors. Also, study design and characteristics varied considerably across studies because of lack of established guidance and protocols in the field, which may also have contributed to the mixed findings about environmental impacts on obesity. Existing findings regarding built environment are more robust than those regarding food environment. Applications of GIS data/methods in obesity research are still limited, and related research faces many challenges. More and better GIS data and more friendly analysis methods are needed to expand future GIS applications in obesity‐related research.
Interactions between sleep, movement and other non‐movement behaviours in the pathogenesis of childhood obesity
Authors: Chaput J.‐P. , Saunders T.J. , Carson V.
Published: February 2017

Research examining the health effects of physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep on different health outcomes has largely been conducted independently or in isolation of the other behaviours. However, the fact that time is finite (i.e. 24 h) suggests that the debate on whether or not the influence of a single behaviour is independent of another one is conceptually incorrect. Time spent in one behaviour should naturally depend on the composition of the rest of the day. Recent evidence using more appropriate analytical approaches to deal with this methodological issue shows that the combination of sleep, movement and non‐movement behaviours matters and all components of the 24‐h movement continuum should be targeted to enhance health and prevent childhood obesity. The objective of this review is to discuss research investigating how combinations of physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep are related to childhood obesity. Emerging statistical approaches (e.g. compositional data analysis) that can provide a good understanding of the best ‘cocktail’ of behaviours associated with lower adiposity and improved health are also discussed. Finally, future research directions are provided. Collectively, it becomes clearer that guidelines and public health interventions should target all movement behaviours synergistically to optimize health of children and youth around the world.
A systems perspective on brown adipogenesis and metabolic activation
Authors: Pradhan R.N. , Zachara M. , Deplancke B.
Published: February 2017

Brown adipocytes regulate energy expenditure via mitochondrial uncoupling. This makes these fat cells attractive therapeutic targets to tackle the burgeoning issue of obesity, which itself is coupled to insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular and fatty liver disease. Recent research has revealed a complex network underlying brown fat cell differentiation and thermogenic activation, involving secreted factors, signal transduction, metabolic pathways and gene regulatory components. Given that brown fat is now reported to be present in adult humans, it is desirable to harness the knowledge from each network module to design effective therapeutic strategies. In this review, we will present a systems perspective on brown adipogenesis and the subsequent metabolic activation of brown adipocytes by integrating signaling, metabolic and gene regulatory modules with a specific focus on known ‘druggable’ targets within each module.
The Impact of Fiscal Stress on Local Government Fiscal Structures: An Event Study of the Orange County Bankruptcy
Authors: MacKay Robert C.
Published: February 2017

I analyze the effect of fiscal stress on local government fiscal structures. In 1994, sudden investment losses of nearly $1.7 billion led to Orange County's default on debt obligations and bankruptcy. This event study provides a descriptive analysis of one of the most extreme fiscal crises in recent decades. I use a synthetic control methodology to measure the impact of the investment losses and find the investment losses resulted in Orange County total revenue falling by 12 percent, cash and securities by 66 percent, and total expenditure by 11 percent, while total debt increased by 17 percent.
Ethical Safety Net Providers
Authors: Mathews Robin
Published: February 2017

Related Content: Ameringer and Liebert (PAR March/April 2017)

Related Content: Liebert and Ameringer (PAR November/December 2013)
Necessary and Universal Truths about Law?
Authors: Tamanaha Brian Z.
Published: February 2017

Prominent analytical jurisprudents assert that a theory of law consists of necessary, universal truths about the nature of law. This often‐repeated claim, which has not been systematically established, is critically examined in this essay. I begin with the distinction between natural kinds and social artifacts, drawing on the philosophy of society to show that necessity claims about law require a fundamental reworking of basic understandings of ontology and epistemology, which legal philosophers have not undertaken. I show law is a poor fit fora priorianda posterioriknowledge. I distinguish between universal application and universal truth, showing the former is sound while the latter is not. I expose the implications that follow from the initial selection of the central case of law, demonstrating that this choice must be justified, and I reveal two ways analytical jurisprudents shield their theories of law from refutation. This analysis raises significant doubts about the claim by analytical jurisprudents that they are identifying necessary, universal truths about the nature of law.
Raz on Rights: Human Rights, Fundamental Rights, and Balancing
Authors: Zanghellini Aleardo
Published: February 2017

After clarifying the outlines of Raz's interest theory of rights and its relationship to aspects of the principles theory of rights, I consider how his recent observations on human rights manage to fit (or fail to fit) into the interest theory. I then address two questions. First, I elaborate on Raz's definition of morally fundamental rights, arguing that he is right in claiming that there are no such rights. I then show that the interest theory accommodates the notion that rights may take qualitative precedence over conflicting considerations—a question that has become increasingly relevant in light of recent writing on rights.
Absolutism without Tyranny in Gorboduc: The Changing Poetics of Tudor Political Drama
Authors: Majumder Doyeeta
Published: February 2017

Besides being the first five‐act tragedy on the English stage, Gorboduc was also the first play to depict usurpation, regicide, and rebellion, on the English stage – all of which became common plot devices in late‐sixteenth century English drama. By offering a reading of the play's treatment of absolutism – divorced from tyranny – manifesting itself in the decision upon the sovereign exception, this article will re‐evaluate the differences between early Tudor political moralities about tyranny and the late Elizabethan usurpation plays, and will ground the transition from one to the other in Gorboduc's engagement with radical innovations in dramaturgy and political thought. It will refer to contemporary political tracts as well as modern political theory, especially the legal fiction of the ‘king's two bodies’ which indirectly makes its presence felt in Gorboduc. Invoking Ernst Kantorowicz's theorization of the ‘king's two bodies’ and Carl Schmitt's theory of sovereignty as a critical framework, this article questions the relation of sovereign power to the person of the bearer, and problematizes the notion of monarchical absolutism.
Multi‐scale classification of fluvial architecture: An example from the Palaeocene–Eocene Bighorn Basin, Wyoming
Authors: Owen Amanda , Ebinghaus Alena , Hartley Adrian J. , Santos Maurício G. M. , Weissmann Gary S.
Published: February 2017

Fluvial channel geometry classification schemes are commonly restricted in relation to the scale at which the study took place, often due to outcrop limitations or the need to conduct small‐scale detailed studies. A number of classification schemes are present in the literature; however, there is often limited consistency between them, making application difficult. The aim of this study is to address this key problem by describing channel body geometries across a depositional basin to ensure that a wide range of architectures are documented. This was achieved by studying 28 locations over 4000 m of vertical succession in Palaeocene‐aged and Early Eocene‐aged deposits within the Bighorn Basin, Wyoming, USA. Five different channel body geometries have been defined based on the external geometric form, and internal arrangement and nature of storey contacts. These include the massive channel body geometry, semi‐amalgamated channel body geometry, internally amalgamated channel body geometry and offset stacked channel body geometry, which are considered to be subdivisions of the sheet geometry of many other classifications. An isolated channel body geometry has also been recognized alongside splay channel and sheet sandstone geometries in the floodplain facies associations. Field evidence, including the stacking style of storey surfaces, suggests that the different geometries form a continuum. The nature and degree of amalgamation at the storey scale are important in producing the different geometries and are related to the degree of channel migration. It is speculated that this is the result of differences in sediment supply and available accommodation. In contrast to previous schemes, the classification scheme presented here recognizes the importance of transitional geometries. This geometrical range has been recognized because of the basin‐scale nature of the study.
How does the ownership of land affect household livelihood pathways under conditions of deagrarianization? ‘Hanging in’, ‘stepping up’ and ‘stepping out’ in two north Indian villages
Authors: Pritchard Bill , Vicol Mark , Jones Rosemary
Published: February 2017

In rural parts of the global South, livelihoods are diversifying away from agriculture. Nevertheless, agriculture typically still remains the backbone of rural life and is usually considered the prime source of economic security, social prestige and self‐identity. The task of narrating these somewhat contradictory processes in a conceptually coherent fashion has proven a major challenge for research. This paper responds to this problem by deploying an adapted version of Andrew Dorward's schema of households ‘hanging in, stepping up or stepping out’ of their landed interests. Dorward's middle‐ground theory provides an appropriate analytical vehicle for capturing the vagaries and situated complexities of the land‐livelihoods nexus. However the theory fails to fully appreciate the extent to which household livelihood decision making rests on complex entanglements that leverage land‐based and nonfarm activities against one another. We demonstrate the critical importance of these processes through the results of in‐depth interviews with 32 households in two north Indian villages. These interviews lead us to propose that land factors in livelihood aspirations in three fundamental ways: an arena for interpenetrated agrarian and nonagrarian livelihood streams; a base for social reproduction; and a bulwark of food (and by extension, livelihood) security through own‐production capabilities.
Life in de facto statelessness in enclaves in India and Bangladesh
Authors: Shewly Hosna J.
Published: February 2017

Drawing on conceptualization of statelessness and ethnographic research on crucial insights of rightessness, this paper investigates how the politico‐geographic‐legality constructs statelessness in the enclaves in India and Bangladesh. Following the decolonization process in 1947, both India and Pakistan/Bangladesh inherited more than 200 enclaves, which comprise 80 per cent of the world's enclaves. With improved bilateral relations, India and Bangladesh officially exchanged the enclaves on 1 August 2015, and the enclave dwellers will gradually be granted citizenship rights over the next few years. In this period of transition from statelessness to statehood, this paper can be read as contemporary history. This paper will draw attention to three aspects of statelessness. First, conceptualization of statelessness not only applies to the refugeehood or de‐territorialization of people but also relates to the process of constructing transterritorial stateless people. Second, this paper will discuss the condition of statelessness constructed in a politico‐geographic‐legal trap. And finally, the paper calls for a wider empirical and critical focus on the hidden geographies of de facto statelessness.
Physiological, biochemical, anthropometric, and biomechanical influences on exercise economy in humans
Authors: Lundby C. , Montero D. , Gehrig S. , Andersson Hall U. , Kaiser P. , Boushel R. , Meinild Lundby A.‐K. , Kirk N. , Valdivieso P. , Flück M. , Secher N. H. , Edin F. , Hein T. , Madsen K.
Published: February 2017

Interindividual variation in running and cycling exercise economy (EE) remains unexplained although studied for more than a century. This study is the first to comprehensively evaluate the importance of biochemical, structural, physiological, anthropometric, and biomechanical influences on running and cycling EE within a single study. In 22 healthy males (VO2max range 45.5‐72.1 mL·min−1·kg−1), no factor related to skeletal muscle structure (% slow‐twitch fiber content, number of capillaries per fiber), mitochondrial properties (volume density, oxidative capacity, or mitochondrial efficiency), or protein content (UCP3 and MFN2 expression) explained variation in cycling and running EE among subjects. In contrast, biomechanical variables related to vertical displacement correlated well with running EE, but were not significant when taking body weight into account. Thus, running EE and body weight were correlated (R2=.94; P<.001), but was lower for cycling EE (R2=.23; P<.023). To separate biomechanical determinants of running EE, we contrasted individual running and cycling EE considering that during cycle ergometer exercise, the biomechanical influence on EE would be small because of the fixed movement pattern. Differences in cycling and running exercise protocols, for example, related to biomechanics, play however only a secondary role in determining EE. There was no evidence for an impact of structural or functional skeletal muscle variables on EE. Body weight was the main determinant of EE explaining 94% of variance in running EE, although more than 50% of the variability of cycling EE remains unexplained.
A novel HLA‐C allele, HLA‐C*08:128, was identified in a leukemia patient by polymerase chain reaction sequence‐based typing
Authors: Zhang W. , Tao S.‐D. , Han Z.‐D. , Pan L.‐L. , Zhu F.‐M.
Published: February 2017

HLA‐C*08:128 shows a substitution C to T at position 704 when compared to
HLA‐C*08:01:01.
Identification and characterization of the novel KIR2DL1*030 allele by sequence‐based typing in a southern Chinese Han individual
Authors: He L.‐M. , Deng Z.‐H. , Hu H.‐Y. , Zhen J.‐X. , Liu Z.‐H.
Published: February 2017

KIR2DL1*030 differs from KIR2DL1*00302 by a single non‐synonymous mutation in exon 4.
First description of a D‐CE‐D hybrid gene on a weak D Type 2 molecular background
Authors: Granier Thomas , Chiaroni Jacques , Bailly Pascal , Silvy Monique
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

RhD phenotypes that express a significantly reduced amount of RhD antigen per red blood cell may be mistyped as RhD‐negative by standard serologic methods. The molecular identification of weak D Type 1, 2, or 3 carriers allows managing them as RhD‐positive and, thus, rationalizes the use of RhD‐negative stock units and the administration of Rh‐immunoglobulin prophylaxis, avoiding unnecessary costs and possible side effects.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

One sample was investigated for confirming a D−C−E+c+e− phenotype. Rh phenotyping was performed with the microplate direct hemagglutination test. DNA array analysis was performed using the BeadChip wRhD kit, and the RHD gene was explored by sequencing to determine the molecular background associated with RhD‐negative phenotype.

RESULTS

Molecular investigations showed a lack of amplification of Exons 3 through 7 and c.1154G>T transversion in Exon 9, suggesting an RHD‐CE‐D composite on a weak D Type 2 background. We attempted to precisely identify the two recombination sites generating this hybrid allele. The 5′ and 3′ breakpoints were located in Introns 2 and 7, which showed concentration of mobile Alu sequences most likely involved in the RHD‐cE(3‐7)‐weak D Type 2 allele.

CONCLUSION

Altogether, we identified the first example of an RHD‐CE‐D large hybrid allele on a weak D Type 2 background associated with an RhD‐negative phenotype. By investigating the RHCE‐D breakpoint zones, we suggest a mobile element‐mediated recombination.
Comparison of 3 options for choosing control limits in biochemistry testing
Authors: Manzocchi Simone , Furman Erika , Freeman Kathleen
Published: February 2017

Background

The purpose of statistical quality control (QC) is to provide peace of mind with regard to the production of results that are suitable for analytically sound clinical interpretation and making reliable decisions about patient diagnosis, monitoring, and prognosis.

Objectives

In this study, we compared 3 options for choosing control limits for biochemistry testing. They focus on the probability of error detection (Ped) and probability of false rejection (Pfr) achievable for a veterinary biochemical analyzer using the following 3 combinations: the quality control material (QCM) manufacturer's acceptable ranges; a standard 12s rule customized for the instrument's observed performance; and candidate rules selected for the instrument's observed performance using a computerized program (EZrules).

Methods

For assessing customized QC, we used mean, SD, CV, bias, total error, and sigma metrics calculated from 3 months of control measurements on a laboratory biochemical analyzer, for 24 commonly used analytes, on 2 QCM levels.

Results

Given the desirable combination of high Ped (> 90%) and low Pfr (≤ 5%), the candidate rules selected by the computerized program‐related EZrules provided the best performance combinations.

Conclusions

The present work shows acceptable QC performance basing the QC on customization of the acceptable ranges of results from the achievable performance of an individual instrument. The QC performance is maximized by the application of candidate rules based on customized ranges obtained from a computerized QC tool, providing the ability to achieve the highest Ped and acceptably low Pfr values.