bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining the link between competition and negative co‐occurrence patterns
Authors: Brazeau Hannah A. , Schamp Brandon S.
Published: May 2019

Negative species co‐occurrence patterns have long intrigued ecologists because of their potential link to competition. Although manipulative field experiments have consistently revealed evidence of competition in natural communities, there is little evidence that this competition produces negative co‐occurrence patterns. Evidence does suggest that abiotic variation, dispersal limitation and herbivory can contribute to patterns of negative co‐occurrence among species; it is possible these influences have obscured a link with competition. Here, we test for a connection between negative co‐occurrence and competition by examining a small‐scale, relatively homogeneous old‐field plant community where the influence of abiotic variation was likely to be minimal and we accounted for the impact of herbivory with an herbivore exclosure treatment. Using three years of data (two biennial periods), we tested whether negatively co‐occurring pairs of species, when occasionally found together, experienced asymmetric abundance decline more frequently than positively co‐occurring pairs, for which there is no such expectation. We found no evidence that negatively co‐occurring pairs consistently suffered asymmetric abundance decline more frequently than positively co‐occurring pairs, providing no evidence that competition is a primary driver of negative co‐occurrence patterns in this community. Our results were consistent across control and herbivore exclosure treatments, suggesting that herbivores are not driving patterns of negative species co‐occurrence in this community. Any influence of competition or herbivory on co‐occurrence patterns is small enough that it is obscured by other factors such as substrate heterogeneity, dispersal and differential species responses to climatic variation through time. We interpret our results as providing evidence that competition is not responsible for producing negative co‐occurrence patterns in our study community and suggest that this may be the case more broadly.
Neighbour signals perceived by phytochrome B increase thermotolerance in Arabidopsis
Authors: Arico Denise , Legris Martina , Castro Luciana , Garcia Carlos Fernando , Laino Aldana , Casal Jorge José , Mazzella Maria Agustina
Published: May 2019

Due to the preeminence of reductionist approaches, understanding of plant responses to combined stresses is limited. We speculated that light‐quality signals of neighbouring vegetation might increase susceptibility to heat shocks because shade reduces tissue temperature and hence the likeness of heat shocks. In contrast, plants of Arabidopsis thaliana grown under low‐red/far‐red ratios typical of shade were less damaged by heat stress than plants grown under simulated sunlight. Neighbour signals reduce the activity of phytochrome B (phyB), increasing the abundance of PHYTOCHROME‐INTERACTING FACTORS (PIFs). The phyB mutant showed high tolerance to heat stress even under simulated sunlight, and a pif multiple mutant showed low tolerance under simulated shade. phyB and red/far‐red ratio had no effects on seedlings acclimated with nonstressful warm temperatures before the heat shock. The phyB mutant showed reduced expression of several fatty acid desaturase (FAD) genes and less proportion of fully unsaturated fatty acids and electrolyte leakage of membranes exposed to heat shocks. Red‐light‐activated phyB also reduced thermotolerance of dark‐grown seedlings but not via changes in FADs expression and membrane stability. We propose that the reduced photosynthetic capacity linked to thermotolerant membranes would be less costly under shade, where the light input limits photosynthesis.
The Medication Level Variability Index (MLVI) as a potential predictive biomarker of graft‐versus‐host disease in pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients
Authors: Skeens Micah A. , Dietrich Mary S. , Ryan‐Wenger Nancy , Gilmer Mary Jo , Mulvaney Shelagh A. , Akard Terrah Foster
Published: May 2019

The purpose of this study was to examine the potential predictive value of the Medication Level Variability Index (MLVI) biomarker with graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) in the pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) patient during the acute phase post‐transplant. This retrospective descriptive study evaluated a total of 406 tacrolimus levels in 64 patients over a varying number of weeks per participant (median = 8, min = 3, max = 11). Patients were followed until Day 100 post‐transplant or tacrolimus taper began. A total of 72 episodes of non‐therapeutic levels occurred during the acute phase. Of those, 40 (56%) were <5, while 32 (44%) were >15. Approximately 39% (n = 25 of 64) of the participants in the study developed GVHD post‐discharge. Those with GVHD had a statistically significantly higher MLVI than those that did not (median = 3.1, IQR = 2.5‐4.7 vs 2.3, IQR = 1.6‐3.4, respectively, P = 0.024). Using a criterion of MLVI > 3, there was a statistically significant increased likelihood of GVHD (OR = 3.82, 95% CI=1.32 = 11.04, P = 0.013). Area under the curve (AUC) calculation for the sensitivity and specificity of using the MLVI for GVHD was also conducted. The AUC of 0.67 was statistically significant (95% CI 0.53‐0.81, P = 0.024). This is the first‐known study to report the use of the MLVI in HSCT patients. The MLVI is associated with a main adverse outcome related to HSCT, GVHD. These results are encouraging of a new potential biomarker to evaluate tacrolimus serum assay levels and identify patients at risk for developing GVHD.
Non‐standard criteria donors in pediatric kidney transplantation
Authors: Pereira Luiza do Nascimento Ghizoni , Nogueira Paulo Cesar Koch
Published: May 2019

KT remains the treatment of choice for ESRD in children. However, the demand for kidney transplants continues to outstrip supply, even in the pediatric scenario. We reviewed the applicability of nonSCDs for pediatric KT. There is a lack of studies analyzing this modality among pediatric donors and recipients, where most conclusions are based on predictions from adult data. Nevertheless, marginal donors might be a reasonable option in selected cases. For example, the use of older LDs is an acceptable option, with outcomes comparable to SCDs. Organs donated after cardiac death represent another possibility, albeit with logistic, ethical, and legal limitations in some countries. AKI donors also constitute an option in special situations, although there are no pediatric data on these transplants. Likewise, there are no data on the use of expanded criteria donors in pediatric patients, but this appears not to be a good option, considering the compromised long‐term survival.
Similarities and differences in the correlates of comorbidities in US male and female adult cancer survivors
Authors: Park So‐Hyun , Strauss Shiela M.
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To determine both the common and the sex‐specific correlates of comorbidities in adult male and female cancer survivors.

Design

Cross‐sectional study using the 2009–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

Sample

Male (n = 667) and female (n = 772) cancer survivors 20 years of age and older.

Measurements

Questionnaire responses from NHANES provided data for this study. Comorbidities were assessed using a modified Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Bivariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were conducted to identify correlates of comorbidities in male and female cancer survivors separately.

Results

The mean modified CCI score was 3.88 in males and 3.68 in females. Having a greater number of cancers diagnosed, being currently or formerly married, being physically inactive, having lower socioeconomic status, and being a former smoker were significant correlates of comorbidities in both males and females. Having a prostate cancer diagnosis was also a significant correlate of comorbidities in males. White race, more years since first cancer diagnosis, being overweight or obese, and having no more than a high school education were also significant correlates of comorbidities in females.

Conclusions

There are differences between correlates of comorbidities in male and female cancer survivors.
Photodamage and Photoprotection: An In vivo Approach Using Noninvasive Probes
Authors: Nawaz Mehwish , Khan Haji Muhammad Shoaib , Akhtar Naveed , Jamshed Talha , Qaiser Rubina , Shoukat Hina , Farooq Mehrin
Published: May 2019

Solar radiations trigger the physiological alteration in skin which progress toward photoaging. Sunscreens are known to be effective against the photodamaging effects of sunlight. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the extent to which aging signs caused by real‐life sunlight exposure could be avoided by comparing various parameters between sun‐exposed and sun‐protected skin using noninvasive probes. Female volunteers (n = 11) after getting their consent were provided with marketed sunscreen product to apply onto their skin for 6 months. Measurements were scheduled every 15 days from the baseline reading for 6 months. Cutometer, Mexameter and Corneometer were used for evaluation of facial skin parameters. Clinical evaluations showed the effects of sunlight exposure on different skin parameters by comparing sun‐protected and unprotected skin, where Gross elasticity (R2), Net elasticity (R5), Viscoelasticity (R6) and Biological elasticity (R7) showed insignificant results, while Hydration, Melanin and Erythema showed significant results. Sun‐exposed skin presented 0.72%, 0.66%, 0.77%, 1.39%, 1.99%, 2.01% and 3.15% changes in R2, R5, R6 and R7, melanin, erythema and hydration, respectively, which were potentially prevented by sunscreen application. Premature aging is inhibited by following photoprotective regimen on routine basis, emphasizing the potential benefit of sunscreen against early aging signs.
Effects of parental light environment on growth and morphological responses of clonal offspring
Authors: Dong B.‐C. , Meng J . , Yu F.‐H.
Published: May 2019

Environments experienced by parent ramets of clonal plants can potentially influence fitness of clonal offspring ramets. Such clonal parental effects may result from heritable epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation, which can be removed by application of DNA de‐methylation agents such as 5‐azacytidine.

To test whether parental shading effects occur via clonal generation and whether DNA methylation plays a role in such effects, parent plants of the clonal herb Alternanthera philoxeroides were first subjected to two levels of light intensity (high versus low) crossed with two levels of DNA de‐methylation (no or with de‐methylation by application of 5‐azacytidine), and then clonal offspring taken from each of these four types of parent plant were subjected to the same two light levels.

Parental shading effects transmitted via clonal generation decreased growth and modified morphology of clonal offspring. Offspring responses were also influenced by DNA methylation level of parent plants. For clonal offspring growing under low light, parental shading effects on growth and morphology were always negative, irrespective of the parental de‐methylation treatment. For clonal offspring growing under high light, parental shading effects on offspring growth and morphology were negative when the parents were not treated with 5‐azacytidine, but neutral when they were treated with 5‐azacytidine.

Overall, parental shading effects on clonal offspring performance of A. philoxeroides were found, and DNA methylation is likely to be involved in such effects. However, parental shading effects contributed little to the tolerance of clonal offspring to shading.
Is There a Backlash Against Immigration From Richer Countries? International Hierarchy and the Limits of Group Threat
Authors: Kustov Alexander
Published: May 2019

Why do immigrants from particular countries systematically face more opposition? To resolve inconsistencies of prevailing group‐threat theories, I reintroduce a long‐standing hypothesis stipulating that people have a disposition for maintaining status hierarchy between ethnic groups. Accordingly, independent of perceived economic or cultural threat, natives are more likely to prefer immigrant groups of higher status based on the development level of the group's national origin. To test this argument, I exploit a substantial provincial variation of immigration flows and attitudes in Spain—one of the only countries that has received immigrants from both less and more developed countries. Consistent with my hypothesis, I demonstrate that anti‐immigration attitudes are more widespread in areas with immigrants from less developed countries regardless of their economic and cultural characteristics. I further document that many voters perceive stable group hierarchies and that these preferences are more predictive of anti‐immigration attitudes in lower‐status immigration contexts. Overall, these results suggest that even culturally similar and economically beneficial immigrant groups from poorer countries can face public opposition due to their lower‐status national origin, highlighting the independent role of group‐status perceptions in politics.
The N2cc component as an electrophysiological marker of space‐based and feature‐based attentional target selection processes in touch
Authors: Katus Tobias , Eimer Martin
Published: May 2019

An electrophysiological correlate of attentional target selection processes in touch (N2cc component) has recently been discovered in lateralized tactile working memory experiments. This tactile N2cc emerges at the same time as the visual N2pc component but has a different modality‐specific topography over central somatosensory areas. Here, we investigated links between N2cc components and the space‐based versus feature‐based attentional selection of task‐relevant tactile stimuli. On each trial, a pair of tactile items was presented simultaneously to one finger on the left and right hand. Target stimuli were defined by their location (e.g., left index finger; Spatial Attention Task), by a nonspatial feature (continuous vs. pulsed; Feature‐Based Attention Task), or by a combination of spatial and nonspatial features (Conjunction Task). Reliable N2cc components were observed in all three tasks. They emerged considerably earlier in the Spatial Attention Task than in the Feature‐Based Attention Task, suggesting that space‐based selection mechanisms in touch operate faster than feature‐guided mechanisms. The temporal pattern of N2cc components observed in the Conjunction Task revealed that space‐based and feature‐based attention both contributed to target selection, which was initially driven primarily by spatial location. Overall, these findings establish the N2cc component as a new electrophysiological marker of the selective attentional processing of task‐relevant stimuli in touch.
Acupuncture prevents the postpartum reduction in matrix metalloproteinase type‐2 immunoexpression, tissue concentration and enzyme activity in bovine caruncles
Authors: Hiebel Katrina , Gentle Lauren , Menino Alfred , Kutzler Michelle
Published: May 2019

The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of acupuncture in dairy cows (Bos taurus) on caruncular matrix metalloproteinase type‐2 (MMP2) at 0, 2 and 4 hr after calving. Acupuncture (n = 6) was applied at 0 and 2 hr after calving to 6 points that relax the cervix and stimulate uterine contractions. Controls (n = 9) were kept in a stanchion for 15 min without acupuncture. All of the cows in the study delivered their placenta in <4 hr. Formalin‐fixed caruncles were paraffin‐embedded and subjected to routine immunohistochemistry to determine MMP2 expression, which was scored by a single observer. Flash frozen caruncles were homogenized, and protein concentration was determined. MMP2 concentrations were calculated using commercial bovine ELISAs. MMP2 enzyme activity was determined using zymography. The mean value for each time point for each cow was used to calculate the mean ± SEMfor each treatment group. MMP2 was predominantly localized to the epithelial and subepithelial stromal cells of the caruncles in both treatment groups. MMP2 immunoexpression was lower 4 hr after calving in the control cows (p = 0.012) but not in the acupuncture treated cows indicating that acupuncture treatment maintained MMP expression. MMP2 tissue concentration was lower 2 hr after calving in the control cows (p = 0.048) but not in the acupuncture treated cows. MMP2 enzyme activity decreased from 0 to 2 hr after calving in control cows (p = 0.046) but not in acupuncture treated cows. This study provides physiologic evidence for the effects of acupuncture on the bovine reproductive tract and substantiates the use of this treatment in cases of placental retention.
Nocturnal symptoms perceived as asthma are associated with obstructive sleep apnoea risk, but not bronchial hyper‐reactivity
Authors: Senaratna Chamara V. , Walters E. Haydn , Hamilton Garun , Lowe Adrian J. , Lodge Caroline , Burgess John , Erbas Bircan , Giles Graham G. , Thomas Paul , Abramson Michael J. , Thompson Bruce , Perret Jennifer L. , Dharmage Shyamali C.
Published: May 2019

Background and objective

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and asthma are associated, and nocturnal breathing difficulty that is usually identified as asthma‐like symptoms can be present in both conditions. We investigated how nocturnal asthma‐like symptoms (NAS) and bronchial hyper‐reactivity (BHR) contribute to the association between OSA risk and current asthma, which is currently unknown but a clinically important question.

Methods

We used data from 794 middle‐aged participants in a population‐based cohort who provided information on OSA risk (defined by a STOP‐Bang questionnaire score of at least 3), current asthma and NAS, and underwent methacholine bronchial challenge testing. Using regression models, we examined the association between OSA risk and current asthma‐NAS subgroups and investigated any effect modification by BHR.

Results

The participants were aged 50 years (49.8% male). OSA risk was associated with NAS with or without current asthma (odds ratio (OR): 2.6; 95% CI = 1.3–5.0; OR: 4.2; 95% CI = 1.1–16.1, respectively), but not with current asthma in the absence of NAS. BHR was associated with current asthma with or without NAS (OR: 2.9; 95% CI = 1.4–5.9; OR: 3.4; 95% CI = 2.0–7.0, respectively) but not with NAS in the absence of current asthma. The associations between OSA risk and current asthma were neither modified nor mediated by BHR.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that some of the nocturnal symptoms perceived as asthma may be OSA symptoms. Patients with nocturnal asthma symptoms should be considered for possible OSA.
The Plight of the Honeybee: A Socioecological Analysis of large‐scale Beekeeping in the United States
Authors: Cilia Laurent
Published: May 2019

This article offers a socioecological analysis of the plight of the honeybee. Departing from natural sciences explanations of the chronic health issues observed in managed honeybees the proposed socioecological analysis focuses on some of the social dimensions of the problems. Specifically, the article first looks at how the cultural disdain for insects is combined with toxic agricultural practices to make bees’ lives challenging. Then it focuses on large‐scale commercial beekeepers and links the fate of managed honeybees to their commodification. Forced to adapt to increasing environmental and economic pressures, beekeepers have developed new management practices intended to keep bees alive and produce as many as possible in order to stay in business and fulfil pollination demand. Their new concern for best management practices fails to foster global changes in agriculture, subsequently compromising their own fate with that of their bees. Honeybees and beekeepers are both affected by the current agricultural model designed for profitability rather than health. The paper builds on in‐depth semi‐structured interviews of 45 large‐scale commercial beekeepers and scientists and participant observation, beekeeping magazines and materials available online.
Breaking the Grenville–Sveconorwegian link in Rodinia reconstructions
Authors: Slagstad Trond , Kulakov Evgeniy , Kirkland Christopher L. , Roberts Nick M. W. , Ganerød Morgan
Published: May 2019

The Grenville, Sveconorwegian, and Sunsas orogens are typically inferred to reflect collision between Laurentia, Baltica, and Amazonia at ca. 1.0 Ga, forming a central portion of the Rodinia supercontinent. This triple‐junction configuration is often nearly identical in otherwise diverse Rodinia reconstructions. However, available geological data suggest that although the Grenville and Sveconorwegian provinces shared a similar tectonic evolution from pre‐1.8 to ca. 1.5 Ga, they record distinctly different tectonic histories leading up to, during, and possibly following Grenville–Sveconorwegian orogenesis. Moreover, palaeomagnetic data suggest the two continents were separated at peak orogenesis, further invalidating any direct correlation. A number of possible interpretations are permissible with available geological and palaeomagnetic data, of which a “classic” triple‐junction configuration appears least likely. In contrast to the commonly inferred intertwined Proterozoic evolution of Baltica and Laurentia, the possibility remains that they were unrelated for a billion years between 1.5 and 0.45 Ga.
Understanding the People and the Language Around You: Using Awareness‐Raising Action Research in Undergraduate Education Abroad
Authors: Goertler Senta ,   the 369ers
Published: May 2019

This collaborative research project developed out of an undergraduate German class in an abroad context, which had the goal of assisting students in maximizing their experience through awareness‐raising activities including action research. Here we focus on the collaborative action research projects conducted by the students. Each of the five projects was guided by the same four research questions: (1) What observations were made in the abroad context? (2) How are these aspects taught in the pre‐departure classes? (3) How were these phenomena observed? (4) What are the implications for participant‐researchers and pre‐departure instruction? Through the action research projects, participant‐researchers gained a better understanding of differences between what they assumed to be true based on what they had learned and what they hypothesized to be true based on their experiences. Through systematic investigation, participant‐researchers were able to evaluate their hypotheses. This article provides suggestions for activities and materials pre‐departure as well as when abroad to better prepare students for important nuances in the target language, many of which were pragmatic in nature.
Highly successful treatment outcome of multidrug‐resistant and genetic diversity of multidrug‐resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains in Rwanda
Authors: Muvunyi Claude Mambo , Ngabonziza Jean Claude Semuto , Uwimana Innocent , Harelimana Jean De Dieu , Mucyo Yves , Sebatunzi Osee Rurambya , Muvunyi Thierry Zawadi , Seruyange Eric , Masaisa Florence , Mazarati Jean Baptiste , Gasana Michel
Published: May 2019

Objective

To determine prevalent MDR‐TB genotypes and describe treatment outcome and bacteriology conversion in MDR‐TB patients.

Methods

Review of laboratory records of 173 MDR‐TB patients from all over Rwanda who initiated treatment under programmatic management of MDR‐TB (PMDT) between 2014 and 2015. Fifty available archived isolates were genotyped by mycobacterial interspersed repetitive units – variable number of tandem repeats (MIRU‐VNTR) genotyping.

Result

Of the 170 patients whose outcome was known, 114 (66.3%) were cured and 36 (21%) completed the treatment, giving a successful outcome (cured and completed) of 150 (87.3%) patients. Of 20 MDR‐TB patients with unfavourable treatment outcome, 18 died, one failed and one defaulted/stopped treatment. Of the 18 patients who died, 11 (61%) were HIV‐coinfected. The treatment outcome was successful for 93.9% among HIV negative and 81.8% among HIV‐coinfected patients (P = 0.02). Sputum smear conversion occurred in 3, 46, 57 and 78 patients before 2, 3, 4 and 6 months, respectively, with median time of sputum smear and culture conversion at 3 months. The 44 MDR‐TB isolates with MIRU‐VNTR result, showed high genetic diversity with low clustering rate (9.09%) and Uganda II being the most prevalent sub‐family lineage detected in 68.2% of isolates. Beijing family was the least common genotype detected (2.3%, 1 isolate).

Conclusion

The high success rates for MDR‐TB treatment achieved in Rwanda were comparable to outcomes observed in resource‐rich settings with HIV being an independent risk factor for poor treatment outcome. High genetic diversity and low clustering rate reported here suggest that reactivation of previous disease plays an important role in the transmission of MDR‐TB in Rwanda.
Microbial study of household hygiene conditions and associated Listeria monocytogenes infection risks for Peruvian women
Authors: Canales Robert A. , Wilson Amanda M. , Sinclair Ryan G. , Soto‐Beltran Marcela , Pearce‐Walker Jennifer , Molina Margarita , Penny Mary , Reynolds Kelly A.
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To develop an exposure and risk assessment model to estimate listeriosis infection risks for Peruvian women.

Methods

A simulation model was developed utilising Listeria monocytogenes concentrations on kitchen and latrine surfaces in Peruvian homes, hand trace data from Peruvian women and behavioural data from literature. Scenarios involving varying proportions of uncontaminated, or ‘clean’, surfaces and non‐porous surfaces were simulated. Infection risks were estimated for 4, 6 and 8 h of behaviours and interactions with surfaces.

Results

Although infection risks were estimated across scenarios for various time points (e.g. 4, 6, 8 h), overall mean estimated infection risks for all scenarios were ≥ 0.31. Infection risks increased as the proportions of clean surfaces decreased. Hand‐to‐general surface contacts accounted for the most cumulative change in L. monocytogenes concentration on hands.

Conclusions

In addition to gaining insights on how human behaviours affect exposure and infection risk, this model addressed uncertainties regarding the influence of household surface contamination levels. Understanding the influence of surface contamination in preventing pathogen transmission in households could help to develop intervention strategies to reduce L. monocytogenes infection and associated health risks.
Retrospective evaluation of paired plasma creatinine and chloride concentrations following hetastarch administration in anesthetized dogs (2002–2015): 244 cases
Authors: Zersen Kristin M. , Mama Khursheed , Mathis Justin C.
Published: May 2019

Objective

To evaluate changes in serum creatinine and chloride concentrations in anesthetized dogs that received 6% hydroxyethyl starch (HES) 670/0.7.

Design

Retrospective case series, 2002–2015.

Setting

University veterinary teaching hospital.

Animals

Two hundred forty‐four client‐owned dogs undergoing general anesthesia that received an HES solution.

Interventions

None.

Measurements and Main Results

Medical records of dogs that received an HES solution (6%, 670/0.7) while under general anesthesia during the study period were reviewed. Information obtained from the medical record included patient signalment, reason for anesthesia or diagnosis, body weight, amount of HES solution administered, pre‐ and postanesthesia creatinine value, pre‐ and postanesthesia chloride value, and day interval between measurements. Corrected chloride values were used for all statistical analysis. Dogs received a median dose of 6.3 mL/kg hetastarch during anesthesia. Median preanesthesia creatinine and corrected chloride values were 79.5 μmol/L (0.9 mg/dL) (range 8.8–689.5 μmol/L [0.1–7.8 mg/dL]) and 111 mmol/L (111 mEq/L) (range 80–123 mmol/L [80–123 mg/dL]), respectively. Median postanesthesia creatinine was 57.4 μmol/L (0.65 mg/dL) (8.8–716 μmol/L [0.1–8.1 mg/dL]). Median postanesthesia corrected chloride was 115 mmol/L (115 mEq/L) (range 87.5–129.6 mmol/L [87.5–129.6 mEq/L]). Mann–Whitney test analysis revealed a significant decrease in creatinine (Δ Cr 17.7 μmol/L [0.2 mg/dL], P < 0.01) and a significant increase in corrected chloride (Δ Cl 4.1 mmol/L [4.1mEq/L], P < 0.01) between pre‐ and postanesthesia values.

Conclusions

In a mixed population of hospitalized dogs undergoing general anesthesia that received a median dose of 6 mL/kg of HES, creatinine was lower and chloride was higher in the postanesthetic than in the preanesthetic period. The clinical significance of these changes and the role that HES administration played in them relative to concurrent therapies is unknown.
Climate Change Policy Evaluation and Its Impact on Island Nations: Case Of Singapore And Sri Lanka
Authors: Peiris Osada Vishvajith
Published: May 2019

Climate Change (CC) is universally recognized as a major global threat due to its nature of impacts. Island nations are known to be the most vulnerable to CC impacts where many countries have initiated mitigation and adaptation actions through sector-based policy measures. Singapore and Sri Lanka are two Asian island nations with CC induced threats. Two countries are different in terms of economic development, but similar developing countries in the CC agenda. In this context, both the countries have initiated mitigation and adaptation actions through policy measures. This study compares the key climate driven performance indicators with historical data to evaluate the performance of climate change policy of each country. Generally, policy evaluation has been conducted by adopting scientific and non-scientific tools, but it is seldom see that the relation of climate driven indicators along with CC policy. Also the policy research was mostly based on European case studies and Asian island nations were not easy to find in this context. The comparison of two countries in terms of CC policy is to determine the key vulnerable sectors where intervention is necessary for island nations. Mitigation policies are evaluated in Singapore and Sri Lanka using GHG emission pathways under twelve (12) indicators and adaptation policies are measured under the national expenditure of key sectors of the economy under seven (07) indicators. The analysis further elaborated by comparing both countries with key economic sectors that has positive and negative influence on CC impacts. Finally, the analysis outcome is used for lessons to learn from each other in improving the CC policy of Singapore and Sri Lanka. As every country has a unique set of strategies to minimize contributions to CC impacts, unique features that are common to both countries are chosen as variables for the comparison. Policy recommendations are provided to implement solid action plan for post 2020. The study expects to assist island countries to strengthen the CC policy as a national priority to manage unforeseen impacts posed by CC phenomena
The Role of Environment As Third Teacher Towards The Development Of Educational Space For Dyslexic Children
Authors: Ismail Alice Sabrina , Zulkurnain Nur Syaza Zureena
Published: May 2019

Educational space that responds towards disable learning student needs is vital for a conducive learning environment. This paper explores on learning spaces for disable children namely the dyslexic in reference to the role of environment as the third teacher towards designing an appropriate educational space to fulfil their needs. Past literature on dyslexia in Malaysia much focuses on the pedagogy and teaching methods rather than discusses the issue of providing better learning space design that caters to the need of dyslexic children towards their psychological well-being. To conduct this study, the qualitative method involving case study as research strategy is used to establish the appropriate learning space design attributes for the dyslexic children. Data sources for this study are obtained from direct observation on three selected case studies of prominent learning disability school found in the global context. There are two key factors that contributed in the learning process and development of learning disability student namely the dyslexic children. These are the non-physical elements comprises of visual cues, auditory, tactile and kinaesthetic approaches as well as physical elements encompasses of density and size including spatial layout arrangement. Findings of the study are in the form of established referential guideline design to inform future designers, builders, education providers and related authority on how to build a conducive learning space environment for the dyslexic children. This is vital in improving the quality of public education infrastructure for dyslexic students in the Malaysian context towards their betterment in the future.
Sinonim Leksikal dalam Bahasa Iban dan Salako
Authors: Abdullah Siti Nur Hidayah , Sahok Jais
Published: May 2019

Language can emerged within two types; spoken or written language. The ethnic diversity in Sarawak has caused the emergence of various languages or and very significantly to be studied such as the synonym aspect in Iban and Salako languages. Although the languages of the Iban community and Salako communities in Lundu and Sematan area are believed/assumed originated from the same language known as the Austronesian language, but the language spoken daily is different as a result of various factors. The dissimilar elements are in terms of pronunciation, spelling, meaning, context of usage and other elements so on. This study was conducted to, understand and investigate whether the Iban and Salako languages have words that are synonymous. This study was conducted using qualitative method such as literature review, interviews, observations, recording, notes and checks were used to obtain complete and detailed information and linguistic data. The findings show that there are some words in the Iban and the Salako languagese have lexical meaning that are synonymous. The meaning of this synonym is clearly understood even when used in different contexts that are not the same as the two communities. In the context of this study, the synonym aspect in the Iban and Salako languages is seen as a means of unifying, harmonizing and facilitating various affairs in their daily lives, especially as they communicate cross-cultural.
Erythraeid larvae parasitizing dragonflies in Zambia—description of Leptus (Leptus) chingombensis sp. nov. with data on biology and ecology of host-parasite interactions
Authors: Bernard Rafał , Felska Magdalena , Mąkol Joanna
Published: May 2019

A survey of odonate fauna in Zambia (Central Province, Luano District) resulted in discovery of ectoparasitic larvae of Leptus (L.) chingombensis sp. nov. (Trombidiformes: Parasitengona, Erythraeidae) on four species of dragonflies (Odonata) representing four different families assigned to Zygoptera and Anisoptera. The morphological characteristics of the new species is supported with DNA barcode sequence. Despite some intra-group variation related to relatively large sample, the morphological and genetic consistence confirm the common specific identity of the material. A brief comparison of Leptus spp. hitherto known from the Afrotropic as larvae is given. Supplementary data to the descriptions of Leptus (L.) bicristatus Fain et Elsen, 1987, Leptus (L.) aldonae Haitlinger, 1987 and Leptus (L.) soddagus Haitlinger, 1990, based on examination of type material, are provided. In the case of L. (L.) chingombensis sp. nov., the parasite load reached high, previously not recorded for Odonata–terrestrial Parasitengona association values, attaining at 44 and 49 larvae. Clear topic preferences towards the ventral side of the host’s body were recorded, with an additional tendency to distal parts of synthorax and the ventral depression of the abdomen. We hypothesize that the infestation did not take place synchronously at dragonflies emergence, but consisted in repeated infestation events during the recurrent appearance of dragonflies in the contact microhabitat occupied by Leptus. The very local character of the finding along with the regular appearance of larvae parasitizing dragonflies, obviously favoured by specific habitat conditions, no doubts confirms the non-accidental nature of the phenomenon.
New phytoseiid mites (Mesostigmata: Phytoseiidae) of Mauritius, with the description of two new species
Authors: Ferragut Francisco , Baumann Julia
Published: May 2019

New phytoseiid mites from Mauritius Islands are being reported, including the description of two new species, Transeius pungi sp. nov. and Typhlodromus (Anthoseius) recurvitremus sp. nov., the description of the male of Phytoseius haroldi Ueckermann & Kreiter, and the redescriptions of two Amblyseius species only known from the type specimens, A. neoankaratrae Ueckermann & Loots and A. passiflorae Blommers. Furthermore, additional and complementary morphological information is provided for other eight species. This work brings the new total number of phytoseiid mites in Mauritius to seventeen species in nine genera.
USP1 links platinum resistance to cancer cell dissemination by regulating Snail stability
Authors: Sonego Maura , Pellarin Ilenia , Costa Alice , Vinciguerra Gian Luca Rampioni , Coan Michela , Kraut Alexandra , D’Andrea Sara , Dall’Acqua Alessandra , Castillo-Tong Dan Cacsire , Califano Daniela , Losito Simona , Spizzo Riccardo , Couté Yohann , Vecchione Andrea , Belletti Barbara , Schiappacassi Monica , Baldassarre Gustavo
Published: May 2019

Snail is a target of USP1 that links platinum response to metastasis in ovarian cancer.
Analysis and minimization of cellular RNA editing by DNA adenine base editors
Authors: Rees Holly A. , Wilson Christopher , Doman Jordan L. , Liu David R.
Published: May 2019

We report cellular RNA editing by adenine base editors and new ABE variants with reduced RNA editing activity.
GALvanizing Alzheimer’s disease therapy to combat the inflamed brain
Authors: Abalde-Atristain Leire
Published: May 2019

Galectin-3 is elevated in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and its deletion reduces neuroinflammation and β-amyloid burden in a mouse model of AD.
Draft Genome Sequence of an Antarctic Isolate of the Black Yeast Fungus
Exophiala mesophila
Authors: Coleine Claudia , Selbmann Laura , Masonjones Sawyer , Onofri Silvano , Zucconi Laura , Stajich Jason E.
Published: May 2019

A 30.43-Mb draft genome sequence with 10,355 predicted protein-coding genes was produced for the ascomycete fungus
Exophiala mesophila
strain CCFEE 6314, a black yeast isolated from Antarctic cryptoendolithic communities. The sequence will be of importance for identifying differences among extremophiles and mesophiles and cataloguing the global population diversity of this organism.
Draft Genome Sequences of Macrococcus caseolyticus, Macrococcus canis, Macrococcus bohemicus, and Macrococcus goetzii
Authors: Mazhar Shahneela , Altermann Eric , Hill Colin , McAuliffe Olivia
Published: May 2019

Here, we present the draft genome sequences of 14 strains of 4 species of the genus
Macrococcus
. These strains were isolated from bovine milk and tongue samples obtained during a screening program.
Regional correlation of the Sonsela Member (Upper Triassic Chinle Formation) and detrital U-Pb zircon data from the Sonsela Sandstone bed near the Sonsela Buttes, northeastern Arizona, USA, support the presence of a distributive fluvial system
Authors: Marsh Adam D. , Parker William G. , Stockli Daniel F. , Martz Jeffrey W.
Published: May 2019

The Sonsela Sandstone bed was first named as an informal unit in the lower part of the Chinle Formation in northern Arizona, USA, and it was later assigned a type section near the Sonsela Buttes, where it is composed of two prominent sandstone units separated by a predominately siltstone unit. The Sonsela Sandstone bed has been correlated to a number of specific sandstones within the thicker, formal Sonsela Member at Petrified Forest National Park in northern Arizona. Here, we present the first detrital U-Pb zircon data for the Sonsela Sandstone bed at the Sonsela Buttes to hypothesize the maximum deposition age of that unit (216.6 ± 0.3 Ma) that are consistent with the proposed lithostratigraphic correlation with the fossiliferous Jasper Forest bed of the lower part of the Sonsela Member at the Park. These results are corroborated by previous high-resolution U-Pb dates and detrital zircon provenance studies from Petrified Forest National Park and similar sections in northern Arizona and western New Mexico, USA. The hypothesized chronostratigraphic correlation of these sandstones throughout northern Arizona permits the recognition of diachronous facies distributions in the lower part of the Chinle Formation as these coarse sediments prograded from the southwest into a continental basin already receiving finer-grained fluvial sediments from the southeast. The new age data corroborate the Norian age designation for the Sonsela Member (and the Sonsela Sandstone bed) and suggest that the Sonsela Sandstone bed at the Sonsela Buttes is within the Adamanian land vertebrate estimated holochronozone.
Workflow: From photo-based 3-D reconstruction of remotely piloted aircraft images to a 3-D geological model
Authors: Hansman Reuben J. , Ring Uwe
Published: May 2019

Geological field mapping is a vital first step in understanding geological processes. During the 20th century, mapping was revolutionized through advances in remote sensing technology. With the recent availability of low-cost remotely piloted aircraft (RPA), field geologists now routinely carry out aerial imaging without the need to use satellite, helicopter, or airplane systems. RPA photographs are processed by photo-based three-dimensional (3-D) reconstruction software, which uses structure-from-motion and multi-view stereo algorithms to create an ultra-high-resolution, 3-D point cloud of a region or target outcrop. These point clouds are analyzed to extract the orientation of geological structures and strata, and are also used to create digital elevation models and photorealistic 3-D models. However, this technique has only recently been used for structural mapping. Here, we outline a workflow starting with RPA data acquisition, followed by photo-based 3-D reconstruction, and ending with a 3-D geological model. The Jabal Hafit anticline in the United Arab Emirates was selected to demonstrate this workflow. At this anticline, outcrop exposure is excellent and the terrain is challenging to navigate due to areas of high relief. This makes for an ideal RPA mapping site and provides a good indication of how practical this method may be for the field geologist. Results confirm that RPA photo-based 3-D reconstruction mapping is an accurate and cost-efficient remote sensing method for geological mapping.
Holoprosencephaly or severe hydrocephalus: T1 sequence tells the story
Authors: Zarei Fariba , Iranpour Pooya , Haseli Sara
Published: May 2019

Intracranial lipoma is a relatively rare benign lesion. Many are incidental findings; however, some others may present with headache, hydrocephalus or other neurological symptoms; thus, correct diagnosis of this condition is important. These lesions are of high signal intensity on T2-weighted MRI and especially those close to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) spaces, can easily be overlooked in the background of high signal intensity of CSF. Here, we present a case of tectal lipoma, with subsequent severe hydrocephalus and absence of septum pellucidum which was initially misinterpreted as a form of holoprosencephaly, due to inadequate attention to T1-weighted images.
Solitary fibrous tumour of the sigmoid colon mesentery
Authors: Mekel Gabriel , Balshan Eli , Traupman Frank
Published: May 2019

Solitary fibrous tumours (SFTs) are rare tumours arising from mesenchymal tissues. Despite of their more frequent occurrence in the pleura, SFT can present anywhere in the body. Only a few cases have been described arising from the mesentery. Most tumours have a benign nature; however, up to 20% of them can spread, most commonly to liver, lung and bone. Surgical excision including all surrounding tissues remains the treatment of choice; however, there is no consensus regarding the need for adjuvant therapies. We present a 79-year-old man with abdominal pain who was found to have a SFT in the mesentery of the sigmoid colon, treated with en bloc resection. A multidisciplinary team including surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists is recommended in the care of these patients.
Qualitative perspectives on the sustainability of sexual health continuous quality improvement in clinics serving remote Aboriginal communities in Australia
Authors: Gunaratnam Praveena , Schierhout Gill , Brands Jenny , Maher Lisa , Bailie Ross , Ward James , Guy Rebecca , Rumbold Alice , Ryder Nathan , Fairley Christopher K , Donovan Basil , Moore Liz , Kaldor John , Bell Stephen
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To examine barriers and facilitators to sustaining a sexual health continuous quality improvement (CQI) programme in clinics serving remote Aboriginal communities in Australia.

Design

Qualitative study.

Setting

Primary health care services serving remote Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory, Australia.

Participants

Seven of the 11 regional sexual health coordinators responsible for supporting the Northern Territory Government Remote Sexual Health Program.

Methods

Semi-structured in-depth interviews conducted in person or by telephone; data were analysed using an inductive and deductive thematic approach.

Results

Despite uniform availability of CQI tools and activities, sexual health CQI implementation varied across the Northern Territory. Participant narratives identified five factors enhancing the uptake and sustainability of sexual health CQI. At clinic level, these included adaptation of existing CQI tools for use in specific clinic contexts and risk environments (eg, a syphilis outbreak), local ownership of CQI processes and management support for CQI. At a regional level, factors included the positive framing of CQI as a tool to identify and act on areas for improvement, and regional facilitation of clinic level CQI activities. Three barriers were identified, including the significant workload associated with acute and chronic care in Aboriginal primary care services, high staff turnover and lack of Aboriginal staff. Considerations affecting the future sustainability of sexual health CQI included the need to reduce the burden on clinics from multiple CQI programmes, the contribution of regional sexual health coordinators and support structures, and access to and use of high-quality information systems.

Conclusions

This study contributes to the growing evidence on how CQI approaches may improve sexual health in remote Australian Aboriginal communities. Enhancing sustainability of sexual health CQI in this context will require ongoing regional facilitation, efforts to build local ownership of CQI processes and management of competing demands on health service staff.