bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Downward nominal wage rigidity in Canada: Evidence against a “greasing effect”
Authors: Wagner Joel
Published: August 2018

The existence of downward nominal wage rigidity (DNWR) has often been used to justify a positive inflation target. It is traditionally assumed that positive inflation could “grease the wheels” of the labour market by putting downward pressure on real wages, easing labour market adjustments during a recession. A rise in the inflation target would attenuate the long‐run level of unemployment and hasten economic recovery after an adverse shock. Following Daly and Hobijn (2014), we re‐examine these issues in a model that accounts for precautionary motives in wage‐setting behaviour. We confirm that DNWR generates a long‐run negative relationship between inflation and unemployment, in line with previous contributions to the literature. However, we also find that the increase in the number of people bound by DNWR following a negative demand shock rises with the inflation target, offsetting the beneficial effects a higher inflation target has on closing the unemployment gap. As an implication, contrary to previous contributions that neglected precautionary behaviour, the speed at which unemployment returns back to pre‐crisis levels during recessions is relatively unaffected by variations in the inflation target.
Downward nominal wage rigidity in Canada: Evidence from micro‐level data
Authors: Brouillette Dany , Kostyshyna Olena , Kyui Natalia
Published: August 2018

We assess the importance of downward nominal wage rigidity (DNWR) in Canada using employer‐level administrative data from the major wage settlements (MWS) and household‐based survey data from the Survey of Labour Income Dynamics (SLID). MWS data cover large unionized firms in Canada, while SLID is a rich rotating panel representative of the employed population in Canada. Combining both sources of information allows for an extensive analysis of DNWR in the Canadian labour market. We find large shares of wage freezes and smaller shares of wage cuts in both MWS and SLID. Shares of freezes are higher at lower CPI inflation rates, based on provincial data. These observations are consistent with the presence of DNWR. DNWR in Canada appears to be larger than in other countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom and European countries. The incidence of DNWR is heterogeneous across firms’ and workers’ characteristics. Wages report less DNWR over longer horizons.
Examining the relationship between obesity and mental health outcomes among individuals admitted to a level I trauma centre
Authors: Reynolds M. , Driver S. , Bennett M. , Patel S. , Rainey E. , Warren A. M.
Published: August 2018

The increased incidence of obesity in the general population translates into clinicians caring for an increased number of trauma patients with obesity. Previous research has documented the unique anatomical and physiological challenges that clinicians face when caring for trauma patients with obesity; however, little is known about psychological challenges that trauma patients with obesity may also experience in the months following injury. The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between obesity and (i) mental health, (ii) demographic and injury‐related variables and (iii) quality‐of‐life outcomes among trauma patients between hospitalization and 3‐months post‐injury. This is a prospective, longitudinal study conducted between March 2012 and May 2014 at a single, level I trauma centre in the southwest United States. Inclusion criteria for this convenience sample consisted of patients who were admitted to the trauma or orthopaedic trauma service ≥24 h, medically stable, spoke English or Spanish and ≥18 years of age. In total, 455 eligible patients were consented and enrolled; 343 (70.87%) completed 3‐month follow‐up. The objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between obesity and mental health among trauma patients in the months following injury. Demographic and injury‐related data were also collected; patients’ height and weight were used to determine body mass index. Health outcomes were assessed during initial hospitalization and at 3‐month follow‐up and included depression, post‐traumatic stress symptoms, pain and return to work. Prior to data collection, it was hypothesized that obesity would have a negative effect on mental health outcomes among patients 3 months post‐injury. The final sample consisted of 343 participants; average age was 46.4 ± 17.3 years; majority male (n = 213, 63%) and Caucasian (n = 231, 69%). Patients with obesity had higher odds of screening positive for depression (odds ratio [OR] = 2.36, P = 0.02) and overweight patients had lower odds of returning to work (OR = 0.31, P = 0.01) 3 months post‐injury compared to patients of normal weight (65% vs. 40%). No other significant differences were found. Results of the current study are novel in that they identify psychological challenges that overweight and trauma patients with obesity may experience. These results demonstrate the need for mental health professionals to be involved in follow‐up care to extending in the months following injury.
Improvement in the light fastness of dyed meta‐aramid fabric using titanium dioxide nanoparticles
Authors: Kale Ravindra D. , Maurya Yashlok , Dash Satyapriya , Potdar Tejasvi
Published: August 2018

Meta‐aramid fibre is very difficult to dye because of its very high crystallinity. The major issues with dyeing meta‐aramid fibre are its selective dyeability with a particular class of dye and poor light fastness, especially with basic dyes, which is not acceptable. In this work, various dyeing trials of meta‐aramid fabric with two commercial basic dyes, Bezacryl Golden Yellow GL 200 and Bezacryl Blue FBS, were conducted on high temperature–high pressure and infrared dyeing machines. To improve the light fastness of dyed samples, titanium dioxode nanoparticles were applied on dyed fabric using a layer‐by‐layer technique. Fastness properties such as light, wash and rubbing were checked for untreated and titanium dioxode‐treated samples. Titanium dioxode application on dyed material improved the light fastness of Bezacryl Golden Yellow‐dyed samples significantly, and Bezacryl Blue FBS also showed an improved rating compared with that previously reported. Improvement in light fastness is selective but it is still a novel and viable route to improve the light fastness of dyed meta‐aramid fabrics.
Factors associated with regression from prediabetes to normal glucose tolerance in a Korean general population: A community‐based 10‐year prospective cohort study
Authors: Hwang Y‐C. , Cho I‐J. , Jeong I‐K. , Ahn K. J. , Chung H. Y.
Published: August 2018

Aim

A proportion of people with prediabetes convert back to normal glucose tolerance. We sought to determine the clinical variables associated with conversion from prediabetes to normal glucose tolerance, with a focus on insulin secretory capacity, insulin sensitivity and body composition.

Methods

We followed 1731 people with prediabetes at baseline from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study every 2 years for 10 years. Oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) were performed, and muscle and fat mass were estimated using bioelectrical impedance analysis.

Results

During 10 years of follow‐up, 36% (623/1731) of people with prediabetes converted to normal glucose tolerance. Higher baseline fasting glucose, 2‐h OGTT glucose and triglyceride levels were inversely associated with this conversion. Higher 60‐min insulinogenic index (IGI60) at baseline was independently associated with this conversion [HR per sd (95% CI) 1.09 (1.02–1.17); P = 0.01]. However, other indices reflecting insulin sensitivity, including the composite insulin sensitivity index, were not associated with this conversion. In addition, a higher baseline muscle to fat ratio was independently associated with conversion to normal glucose tolerance [HR per sd (95% CI) 1.15 (1.04–1.26); P = 0.005]. People with conversion to normal glucose tolerance showed a greater increase in the 60‐min insulinogenic index and disposition index and a smaller decrease in the composite insulin sensitivity index compared with people without conversion during 10 years of follow‐up (all p‐values < 0.001).

Conclusion

A higher insulin secretory capacity at baseline and during follow‐up and higher baseline muscle to fat ratio were independently associated with an improvement in glucose tolerance in Korean adults with prediabetes.
Causes and consequences of the Great Vietnam Famine, 1944–5
Authors: Huff Gregg
Published: August 2018

This article analyses Vietnam's 1944–5 great famine, which, even beyond its sheer scale of a million deaths, is historically important as instrumental in the August 1945 Viet Minh and communist revolution. It is argued that typhoons which struck coastal areas resulted in a shortfall of available food and were the proximate cause of famine. The Japanese in occupation of Vietnam, the American government directing attacks on the transport system, or the country's French colonial administration could have acted to limit, or even reverse, the famine. However, under the pressure of war, no government or institution opted for an effective famine alleviation strategy. That was also true of Asia's other great Second World War famines in Bengal, Henan, and Java, which paralleled Vietnam's both in causation and in feasible avoidance strategies. In Vietnam, differences in endowments and entitlements largely explain who died in the famine.
Effects of nitrogen management and straw return on soil organic carbon sequestration and aggregate‐associated carbon
Authors: Huang T. , Yang H. , Huang C. , Ju X.
Published: August 2018

Soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration and aggregate‐associated carbon (C) can be strongly affected by nitrogen (N) management and straw return. However, an in‐depth understanding of the effect of N and straw application on SOC and aggregate‐associated C is lacking. After 6 years of five inorganic and organic N amounts under straw removal and straw return, we investigated SOC sequestration at a depth of 0–60 cm and soil aggregate‐associated C in the topsoil (0–20 cm). The results were as follows: (i) the 0–60‐cm depth SOC stocks for all treatments except N0 increased by 2.5–25.5% after 6 years, (ii) sequestered SOC was linearly correlated (P < 0.01) with estimates of C input and the rate of C input required to maintain the SOC stock level was 3.68 Mg ha−1 year−1, (iii) application of chemical N increased SOC mainly through an increase in coarse particulate organic matter (POM) and silt‐ and clay‐bound C in macroaggregates, whereas with the organic N‐incorporated treatments SOC increased mainly through an increase in intra‐microaggregate POM within macroaggregates, (iv) the main mechanism for the formation of macroaggregates was POM bound to primary particles (sand, silt and clay) that formed microaggregates and eventually macroaggregates and (v) intra‐microaggregate POM within macroaggregates (imMPOM) is a good indicator of the efficacy of N fertilization and straw management in stabilizing soil aggregates. In conclusion, chemical N incorporated with straw and organic fertilizer can enhance SOC stocks, aggregate stability and aggregate‐associated C, which might promote long‐term C sequestration.

Highlights

Effects of N and straw management on SOC sequestration and aggregate‐associated C were investigated.

Consolidated SOC fractionation was used to evaluate the effects of N and straw on aggregate‐associated C.

Intra‐microaggregate POM within macroaggregates is a good indicator of management on soil aggregate stability.

Chemical N mixed with organic N and straw increased the amount and quality of SOC.
Transgenerational plasticity and selection shape the adaptive potential of sticklebacks to salinity change
Authors: Heckwolf Melanie J. , Meyer Britta S. , Döring Talisa , Eizaguirre Christophe , Reusch Thorsten B. H.
Published: August 2018

In marine climate change research, salinity shifts have been widely overlooked. While widespread desalination effects are expected in higher latitudes, salinity is predicted to increase closer to the equator. We took advantage of the steep salinity gradient of the Baltic Sea as a space‐for‐time design to address effects of salinity change on populations. Additionally, genetic diversity, a prerequisite for adaptive responses, is reduced in Baltic compared to Atlantic populations. On the one hand, adaptive transgenerational plasticity (TGP) might buffer the effects of environmental change, which may be of particular importance under reduced genetic variation. On the other hand, physiological trade‐offs due to environmental stress may hamper parental provisioning to offspring thereby intensifying the impact of climate change across generations (nonadaptive TGP). Here, we studied both hypothesis of adaptive and nonadaptive TGP in the three‐spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) fish model along the strong salinity gradient of the Baltic Sea in a space‐for‐time experiment. Each population tolerated desalination well, which was not altered by parental exposure to low salinity. Despite a common marine ancestor, populations locally adapted to low salinity lost their ability to cope with fully marine conditions, resulting in lower survival and reduced relative fitness. Negative transgenerational effects were evident in early life stages, but disappeared after selection via mortality occurred during the first 12–30 days posthatch. Modeling various strengths of selection, we showed that nonadaptive transgenerational plasticity accelerated evolution by increasing directional selection within the offspring generation. Qualitatively, when genetic diversity is large, we predict that such effects will facilitate rapid adaptation and population persistence, while below a certain threshold populations suffer a higher risk of local extinction. Overall, our results suggest that transgenerational plasticity and selection are not independent of each other and thereby highlight a current gap in TGP studies.
À‐trous wavelet transform‐based hybrid image fusion for face recognition using region classifiers
Authors: Seal Ayan , Bhattacharjee Debotosh , Nasipuri Mita , Gonzalo‐Martin Consuelo , Menasalvas Ernestina
Published: August 2018

This paper presents a new hybrid fusion framework based on thermal and visible face images. Fusion of information is done here in two phases, first at the pixel level and then at the decision level. For the pixel level fusion process, à‐trous wavelet transform is applied on both the thermal and visible face images. In decision level fusion, 34 region classifiers, each concentrating on a specified region of the face image, are tested individually for their ability to identify a person from the face image. The region classifiers, which contribute significantly in recognizing the face image, are considered for decision level fusion using majority voting. All experiments have been conducted on the UGC‐JU face database and IRIS benchmark face database. The maximum recognition rate is about 97.22% for both the databases whereas decisions of 17 region classifiers among 34 are considered. Experimental results and comparative study show that the proposed fusion method provides a framework for recognition of face images in uncontrolled environments such as variations in illumination conditions, pose, and facial expressions.
A study on the criteria of internal transparency, efficiency and effectiveness in measuring local government performance
Authors: Røge Kristian Mohr , Lennon Niels Joseph
Published: August 2018

Public managers perceive performance measurement as an indispensable element of modernising the public sector in the quest to achieve ‘more for less’, despite research showing that performance measurement in the public sector is risky in terms of unexpected and undesirable effects. Through a case study of the introduction of a performance measurement system (PMS) in a Danish municipality, our analysis focuses on how internal transparency unfolds in terms of addressing performance measures and aligning them with the criteria of efficiency and effectiveness. We conclude that there are two main reasons the PMS fails to address the desired effects in terms of modernising the municipality. First, an overarching focus by top management on outcome measurement results in inattention to the measurement of resource consumption and efficiencies. Second, empowerment of lower‐level managers in the formulation of key performance indicators (KPIs) results in competence problems related to PMS design. Therefore, many of the KPIs are designed as milestone measures, chosen to constrain the influence of the PMS on daily activities. These factors hinder the organisation's ability to design KPIs that attribute costs to outputs and therefore render the goal of internal transparency impossible to achieve for the municipality. The consequence is a PMS that loses track of its very purpose along with a false sense of security among top management regarding the optimisation of scarce resources.
Evaluation of the Fatemi‐Socie damage parameter for the fatigue life calculation with application of the Chaboche plasticity model
Authors: Karolczuk Aleksander , Skibicki Dariusz , Pejkowski Łukasz
Published: August 2018

This paper presents an approach to the evaluation of the Fatemi‐Socie parameter applied to the lifetime calculation of specimens made of CuZn37 brass. In particular, two factors affecting the calculated fatigue lives are analysed: (i) the influence of stresses calculated by applying the Chaboche plasticity model on the computed lifetime and (ii) the influence of a variability of parameter k of material sensitivity to normal stress on the calculated lifetime. The novelty of the presented research is associated with the fatigue life calculation according to the Fatemi‐Socie model with the introduced k dependence accounting for the lifetime. Underestimation of the calculated stresses results in the higher calculated fatigue lives but with acceptable scatter band. The parameter of material sensitivity to normal stress for the CuZn37 brass varies insignificantly having little impact on the calculated fatigue lives.
Trophic structure of an African savanna river and organic matter inputs by large terrestrial herbivores: A stable isotope approach
Authors: Masese Frank O. , Abrantes Kátya G. , Gettel Gretchen M. , Irvine Kenneth , Bouillon Steven , McClain Michael E.
Published: August 2018

Knowledge of trophic structure is important to understand sources and pathways of energy resources in community ecology and to identify determinants of ecosystem changes. Yet, little is known from rivers of African savanna receiving large inputs of terrestrial organic matter and nutrients by large mammalian herbivores.

We used Stable Isotope (δ13C and δ15N) Bayesian Ellipses in R (SIBER) and Layman's community‐wide metrics to describe seasonal variation in trophic niches and trophic structures in midorder river reaches in the Mara River (Kenya) that differed in environmental conditions (agricultural vs. forested) and amounts of organic matter and nutrients (low vs. high inputs by livestock and hippopotami, Hippopotamus amphibius). These analyses were supplemented with data on the trophic diversity of macroinvertebrate functional feeding groups (FFGs) and fish trophic guilds.

The δ13C and δ15N of basal resources and consumers differed between sites and changed with seasons. Sites in agricultural areas that were utilised by livestock and a site with hippopotami had higher δ13C than the forested site due to the presence of C4 carbon from egestion and excretion by the grazers.

The forested site recorded the most taxon‐rich and trophic‐diverse invertebrate community, suggesting both autochthonous and allochthonous sources of energy were available. Agricultural sites and the site with hippopotami recorded high abundances of collector taxa in response to large inputs of organic matter. Fish trophic guilds were less diverse and were dominated by insectivores.

The food web at the forested site had the widest trophic niche size and highest isotopic trophic diversity compared to sites in areas with large mammalian herbivores. Invertebrate and fish trophic niche sizes changed according to food resources varying with space and time. Invertebrates had higher δ13C values during the dry season. In contrast, fish showed higher δ13C values during the wet season, and trophic niche sizes were constricted and considerably overlapping, suggesting feeding on a narrow range of food sources with high trophic redundancy.

This study showed that increased terrestrial organic matter by large mammalian herbivores affected trophic diversity and niche sizes for aquatic consumers in rivers draining the African savanna. Linking the density of terrestrial large mammalian herbivores to aquatic ecosystem structure and function could help manage their populations sustainably.
Structured Clinical Documentation to Improve Quality and Support Practice‐Based Research in Headache
Authors: Meyers Steven , Claire Simon Kelly , Bergman‐Bock Stuart , Campanella Franco , Marcus Revital , Mark Angela , Freedom Thomas , Rubin Susan , Semenov Irene , Lai Rebekah , Hillman Laura , Tideman Samuel , Pham Anna , Frigerio Roberta , Maraganore Demetrius M.
Published: August 2018

Objective

To use the electronic medical record (EMR) to optimize patient care, facilitate documentation, and support quality improvement and practice‐based research, in a headache specialty clinic.

Background

Many physicians enter data into the EMR as unstructured free text and not as discrete data. This makes it challenging to use data for quality improvement or research initiatives.

Methods

We describe the process of building a customized structured clinical documentation support toolkit, specific for patients seen in a headache specialty clinic. The content was developed through frequent physician meetings to reach consensus on elements that define clinical Best Practices. Tasks were assigned to the care team and data mapped to the progress note.

Results

The toolkit collects hundreds of fields of discrete, standardized data. Auto scored and interpreted score tests include the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7‐item, Center for Epidemiology Studies Depression Scale, Migraine Disability Assessment questionnaire, Insomnia Sleep Index, and Migraine‐Specific Quality of Life. We have developed Best Practice Advisories (BPA) and other clinical documentation support tools that alert physicians, when appropriate. As of April 1, 2018, we have used the toolkits at 4346 initial patient visits. We provide screenshots of our toolkits, details of data fields collected, and diagnoses of patients at the initial visit.

Conclusions

The EMR can be used to effectively structure and standardize headache clinic visits for quality improvement and practice‐based research. We are sharing our proprietary toolkit with other clinics as part of the Neurology Practice‐Based Research Network. These tools are also facilitating clinical research enrollment and a pragmatic trial of comparative effectiveness at the point‐of‐care among migraine patients.
Influence of hyperthermal regimes on experimental teratoma development in vitro
Authors: Katusic Bojanac Ana , Rogosic Srdjan , Sincic Nino , Juric‐Lekic Gordana , Vlahovic Maja , Serman Ljiljana , Jezek Davor , Bulic‐Jakus Floriana
Published: August 2018

We screened for the impact of hyperthermal regimes varying in the cumulative equivalent minutes at 43°C (CEM43°C) and media composition on tumour development using an original teratoma in vitro model. Rat embryos (three germ layers) were microsurgically isolated and cultivated at the air‐liquid interface. During a two week period, ectodermal, mesodermal and endodermal derivatives developed within trilaminar teratomas. Controls were grown at 37°C. Overall growth was measured, and teratoma survival and differentiation were histologically assessed. Cell proliferation was stereologically quantified by the volume density of Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen. Hyperthermia of 42°C, applied for 15 minutes after plating (CEM43°C 3.75 minutes), diminished cell proliferation (P ˂ .0001) and enhanced differentiation of both myotubes (P ˂ .01) and cylindrical epithelium (P ˂ .05). Hyperthermia of 43°C applied each day for 30 minutes during the first week (CEM43°C 210 minutes) impaired overall growth (P ˂ .01) and diminished cell proliferation (P ˂ .0001). Long‐term hyperthermia of 40.5°C applied for two weeks (CEM43°C 630 minutes) significantly impaired survival (P ˂ .005). Long‐term hyperthermia of 40.5°C applied from the second day when differentiation of tissues begins (CEM43°C 585 minutes) impaired survival (P ˂ .0001), overall growth (P ˂ .01) and cartilage differentiation (P ˂ .05). No teratomas survived extreme regimes: 43°C for 24 hours (CEM43°C 1440 minutes), hyperthermia in the scant serum‐free medium (CEM43°C 630 minutes) or treatment with an anti‐HSP70 antibody before long‐term hyperthermia 40.5°C from the second day (CEM43°C 585 minutes). This in vitro research provided novel insights into the impact of hyperthermia on the development of experimental teratomas from their undifferentiated sources and are thus of potential interest for future therapeutic strategies in corresponding in vivo models.
Optimization of melting parameters and minimizing OH content in SiO2‐B2O3‐Na2O‐BaO glass system in microwave heating
Authors: Mandal Ashis Kumar , Sen Ranjan
Published: August 2018

This study investigates the optimization of melting process for the glass comprising SiO2‐B2O3‐Na2O‐BaO under microwave (MW) heating. Batches were melted at different temperatures in the range of 900‐1250°C to optimize melting condition. X‐ray diffraction suggests amorphous nature of samples melted above 1150°C. Optimization of melting time was carried out by varying soaking time (8‐60 minutes) at 1250°C. UV‐Vis‐NIR spectra reveal ~90% transmission over 300‐2000 nm wavelength range for glass melted at 1250°C. Optical microscopic images suggest that the bubble‐free glass can be produced at 1250°C for 1 hour melting in MW heating. MW heating also helps in reducing OH content in glass. However, OH concentration is found to increase with melting time. OH content could be minimized to 68.56 ppm in glass employing oxygen atmosphere melting, which prevents OH diffusion from atmosphere into the melt. Residual stresses are estimated to be less in MW heating than conventional heating. Maximum MW power was observed to be 1 kW with a total electrical power consumption of around 5 kWh. Also, total time needed to prepare the glass is around 2 hours. Thus, MW heating could be an alternate efficient tool in producing low OH content glass.
Results of a cross Canada survey of blood film review practice patterns by technologists and pathologists
Authors: Barth David , Good David
Published: August 2018

Introduction

No common or widely accepted criteria exist for physician review of blood films or for reported standards of physician rate of blood film review. Individual institutions generally have internal criteria for physician review of blood films. To better understand how and why blood film reviews are performed at different institutions across Canada, with a specific interest in physician blood film review, we undertook a survey to assess the current practise patterns of physician review of blood films across Canada.

Methods

A 15 question survey was developed and sent to 24 academic, large community and corporate laboratories across Canada by e‐mail to laboratory directors of those institutions. Centres were chosen to include all provinces in Canada and most of the major academic centres. Twenty of the 24 centres responded.

Results

The mean rate of physician review of blood films as a percentage of all CBCs processed per day was 4.1% (range 0.35%‐13%) and of all blood films made per day was 28.8% (range 1.9%‐66.5%). Data on factors which might affect physician review rates, physician preferences regarding what percentage of physician blood film review rates is reasonable and physician perspectives on the role of physician blood film review are discussed.

Conclusion

This survey reveals that there is varying practise patterns and opinions with respect to blood film review by physicians in Canada.
An integrated flow cytometry analysis of 286 mature B cell neoplasms identifies CD13 as a useful marker for diagnostic subtyping
Authors: Lau Hubert , Nagy Alexandra , Atwater Susan K. , Cascio Michael J. , Ohgami Robert S.
Published: August 2018

Introduction

CD13 is a myeloid associated antigen, which may be expressed by a subset of B cell lymphomas; however, the significance of its expression along with other B cell associated antigens is not well characterized.

Methods

Two hundred and eighty‐six mature B cell neoplasms with flow cytometric analysis performed at the time of diagnosis were identified. Expression of CD13, CD45, CD19, CD20, CD5, CD10, CD38, CD22, CD23, FMC7, and kappa and lambda light chains was assessed for each case and correlated with clinicopathologic features.

Results

CD13 expression was associated specifically with cases of lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (LPL) (16/26)‐ and FMC7‐positive chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL) (11/30). No cases of follicular lymphoma (FL) expressed CD13 (0/48). Across all B cell neoplasms, CD13 expression positively correlated with FMC7 co‐expression and kappa light chain restriction and negatively correlated with CD10 co‐expression and lambda light chain restriction. No significant association of CD13 with overall or disease free survival in B cell neoplasms was seen.

Conclusion

CD13 expression is present more often in LPL‐ and FMC7‐positive CLL/SLL than other mature B cell lymphoma subtypes and absent in cases of FL and may be a useful feature for diagnostic subtyping.
Tuberculosis prevention knowledge, attitudes, and practices of primary health care nurses
Authors: van Rensburg André Janse , Engelbrecht Michelle , Kigozi Gladys , van Rensburg Dingie
Published: August 2018

Aim

Tuberculosis (TB) continues to challenge global health systems, especially in South Africa. Nurses are especially vulnerable to TB exposure, because of their prolonged front‐line contact with infected patients—especially in primary health care (PHC) clinics. Their infection control practices, influenced by key factors such as knowledge and attitudes towards TB prevention, become an important consideration. The aim of the study was to (1) describe the TB prevention knowledge, attitudes, and practices of PHC nurses in a South African district and (2) explore moderating factors on TB prevention practices.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was undertaken at all 41 PHC facilities in Mangaung Metropolitan district, Free State province, South Africa, using self‐administered questionnaires. Captured data were analysed to yield descriptive and multivariate statistics.

Results

Results suggest several instances of inadequate TB prevention knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Good TB practice was predicted by TB attitudes and knowledge, and the relationship between TB prevention knowledge and practices was not moderated by training, attitudes, or nurse category.

Conclusion

Results echo previous indications that nurses often do not exhibit the desired knowledge, attitudes, and practices required to adequately protect themselves and others against TB and suggest further exploration towards understanding the influences on TB prevention practice among nurses.
Renal tumors in end‐stage renal disease: A comprehensive review
Authors: Tsuzuki Toyonori , Iwata Hidehiro , Murase Yota , Takahara Taishi , Ohashi Akiko
Published: August 2018

The incidence of end‐stage renal disease has increased owing to the greater prevalence of patients with chronic kidney disease and diabetes mellitus. End‐stage renal disease is usually accompanied by acquired cystic disease and is a risk factor for renal cell carcinoma. The present review discusses the etiology of renal cell carcinoma in end‐stage renal disease patients, focusing on two unique renal cell carcinoma histological subtypes: acquired cystic disease‐associated renal cell carcinoma and clear cell papillary renal cell carcinoma. Acquired cystic disease‐associated renal cell carcinoma occurs almost exclusively in patients who underwent hemodialysis, especially long‐term (>10 years) hemodialysis. Its histology is distinctive: a cribriform or sieve‐like architecture with intra‐ or intracystic lumina; tumor cells containing abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm and large nuclei with prominent nucleoli; and most notably, calcium oxalate crystal deposition. Recognition of the crystals is critical for diagnosing acquired cystic disease‐associated renal cell carcinoma. Acquired cystic disease‐associated renal cell carcinoma typically has an indolent clinical course, except in cases with sarcomatoid components. Clear cell papillary renal cell carcinoma also has an indolent course (no cases involving metastasis have been reported to date), and its features resemble those of both clear cell renal cell carcinoma and papillary renal cell carcinoma. Unlike acquired cystic disease‐associated renal cell carcinoma, which occurs only in end‐stage renal disease patients, clear cell papillary renal cell carcinoma occurs in non‐end‐stage renal disease patients as well. Additional renal tumors in end‐stage renal disease patients include anastomosing hemangiomas. Long‐term hemodialysis worsens the prognosis of end‐stage renal disease patients with renal cell carcinoma, regardless of its original histological subtype, presumably by inducing oxidative stress and sarcomatoid transformation.
Systematic review of the impact of coparenting interventions on paternal coparenting behaviour
Authors: Pilkington Pamela , Rominov Holly , Brown Hilary K. , Dennis Cindy‐Lee
Published: August 2018

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of interventions to support coparenting, how partners relate to and support one another as parents, on paternal outcomes.

Background

Despite societal shifts in gender roles leading to fathers’ increasing involvement in parenting and growing recognition of the need for couples‐based parenting interventions, fathers have been underrepresented in parenting research.

Design

Systematic review.

Data Sources

Medline, Embase, Healthstar, and PsycInfo.

Review methods

We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses to identify peer‐reviewed articles published up to 2016 that evaluated the effectiveness of coparenting interventions for expectant fathers or fathers of children <18 years. Study quality was assessed using Cochrane risk of bias criteria for Effective Practice and Organisation of Care reviews; Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria were used to summarize quality of the evidence. The primary outcome was coparenting behaviour among men.

Results

We identified 16 randomized controlled trials that evaluated 14 coparenting interventions. Nine interventions targeted partners in the perinatal period; five targeted parents of children. All but one involved face‐to‐face contact, but this varied in duration and intensity. Of the 12 trials that examined coparenting outcomes, eight reported an effect on at least one measure of paternal coparenting behaviour. The quality of the evidence was at a low level.

Conclusion

Success was moderate, supporting the need for future research to explore the use of additional approaches to increase efficacy, including technology‐based interventions, to improve uptake among men.
Perceived acculturation preferences of minority groups and intergroup discrimination: When culture‐specific intergroup norms matter
Authors: Anier Nolwenn , Badea Constantina , Berthon Mickael , Guimond Serge
Published: August 2018

The present research seeks to show that culture‐specific variables can moderate the impact of general determinants of intergroup discrimination, usually assumed to operate identically across cultures. The present paper reports the results of two studies testing the hypothesis that, in France, the cultural norm of new laïcité (a French‐specific ideology of secularism) can moderate the impact of the perceived host culture adoption and national identification on discrimination against immigrants. We conducted a correlational study (Study 1, N = 249) and an experiment (Study 2, N = 143) using two distinct and previously validated measures of intergroup discrimination. Results showed that the higher the perception of a norm of new laïcité, the stronger the link between host culture adoption and national identification. More specifically, among native French people, the perception of a weak host culture adoption and a weak national identification on the part of immigrants produced higher levels of discriminatory behavior especially when the intergroup norm of new laïcité was high. These studies highlight the fundamental importance of taking into account culture‐specific variables in the study of discrimination and point to the fact that, by changing the normative context, one may change intergroup behaviors. Reducing intergroup discrimination in applied settings may require targeting culture‐specific intergroup norms.
Regulation of TRPV5 transcription and expression by E2/ERα signalling contributes to inhibition of osteoclastogenesis
Authors: Song Tengfei , Lin Tao , Ma Jun , Guo Lei , Zhang Ling , Zhou Xuhui , Ye Tianwen
Published: August 2018

The increasing of osteoclasts formation and activity because of oestrogen (E2) deficiency is very important in the aetiology of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Our previous studies showed that E2 inhibited osteoclastic bone resorption by increasing the expression of Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 5 (TRPV5) channel. However, the exact mechanism by which E2 increases TRPV5 expression is not fully elucidated. In this study, Western blot, quantitative real‐time PCR, tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase staining, F‐actin ring staining, chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase assay were applied to explore the mechanisms that E2‐induced TRPV5 expression contributes to the inhibition of osteoclastogenesis. The results showed that silencing or overexpressing of TRPV5 significantly affected osteoclasts differentiation and activity. Silencing of TRPV5 obviously alleviated E2‐inhibited osteoclastogenesis, resulting in increasing of bone resorption. E2 stimulated mature osteoclasts apoptosis by increasing TRPV5 expression. Further studies showed that E2 increased TRPV5 expression through the interaction of the oestrogen receptor α (ERα) with NF‐κB, which could directly bind to the fragment of −286 nt ~ −277 nt in the promoter region of trpv5. Taken together, we conclude that TRPV5 plays a dominant effect in E2‐mediated osteoclasts formation, bone resorption activity and osteoclasts apoptosis. Furthermore, NF‐κB plays an important role in the transcriptional activation of E2‐ERα stimulated TRPV5 expression.
Long non‐coding RNA SNHG14 induces trastuzumab resistance of breast cancer via regulating PABPC1 expression through H3K27 acetylation
Authors: Dong Huaying , Wang Wei , Mo Shaowei , Liu Qiang , Chen Xin , Chen Ru , Zhang Yu , Zou Kejian , Ye Mulin , He Xionghui , Zhang Fan , Han Jing , Hu Jianguo
Published: August 2018

Currently, resistance to trastuzumab, a human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) inhibitor, has become one major obstacle for improving the clinical outcome of patients with advanced HER2+ breast cancer. While cell behaviour can be modulated by long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs), the contributions of lncRNAs in progression and trastuzumab resistance of breast cancer are largely unknown. To this end, the involvement and regulatory functions of lncRNA SNHG14 in human breast cancer were investigated. RT‐qPCR assay showed that SNHG14 was up‐regulated in breast cancer tissues and associated with trastuzumab response. Gain‐ and loss‐of‐function experiments revealed that overexpression of SNHG14 promotes cell proliferation, invasion and trastuzumab resistance, whereas knockdown of SNHG14 showed an opposite effect. PABPC1 gene was identified as a downstream target of SNHG14, and PABPC1 mediates the SNHG14‐induced oncogenic effects. More importantly, ChIP assays demonstrated that lncRNA SNHG14 may induce PABPC1 expression through modulating H3K27 acetylation in the promoter of PABPC1 gene, thus resulting in the activation of Nrf2 signalling pathway. These data suggest that lncRNA SNHG14 promotes breast cancer tumorigenesis and trastuzumab resistance through regulating PABPC1 expression through H3K27 acetylation. Therefore, SNHG14 may serve as a novel diagnostic and therapeutic target for breast cancer patients.
Branched‐chain amino acids promote endothelial dysfunction through increased reactive oxygen species generation and inflammation
Authors: Zhenyukh Olha , González‐Amor Maria , Rodrigues‐Diez Raul R. , Esteban Vanesa , Ruiz‐Ortega Marta , Salaices Mercedes , Mas Sebastian , Briones Ana M. , Egido Jesus
Published: August 2018

Branched‐chain amino acids (BCAA: leucine, isoleucine and valine) are essential amino acids implicated in glucose metabolism and maintenance of correct brain function. Elevated BCAA levels can promote an inflammatory response in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. However, there are no studies analysing the direct effects of BCAA on endothelial cells (ECs) and its possible modulation of vascular function. In vitro and ex vivo studies were performed in human ECs and aorta from male C57BL/6J mice, respectively. In ECs, BCAA (6 mmol/L) increased eNOS expression, reactive oxygen species production by mitochondria and NADPH oxidases, peroxynitrite formation and nitrotyrosine expression. Moreover, BCAA induced pro‐inflammatory responses through the transcription factor NF‐κB that resulted in the release of intracellular adhesion molecule‐1 and E‐selectin conferring endothelial activation and adhesion capacity to inflammatory cells. Pharmacological inhibition of mTORC1 intracellular signalling pathway decreased BCAA‐induced pro‐oxidant and pro‐inflammatory effects in ECs. In isolated murine aorta, BCAA elicited vasoconstrictor responses, particularly in pre‐contracted vessels and after NO synthase blockade, and triggered endothelial dysfunction, effects that were inhibited by different antioxidants, further demonstrating the potential of BCAA to induce oxidative stress with functional impact. In summary, we demonstrate that elevated BCAA levels generate inflammation and oxidative stress in ECs, thereby facilitating inflammatory cells adhesion and endothelial dysfunction. This might contribute to the increased cardiovascular risk observed in patients with elevated BCAA blood levels.
Tectorigenin inhibits RANKL‐induced osteoclastogenesis via suppression of NF‐κB signalling and decreases bone loss in ovariectomized C57BL/6
Authors: Ma Chiyuan , Xu Kai , Meng Jiahong , Ran Jisheng , Adel Abdo Moqbel Safwat , Liu An , Yan Shigui , Wu Lidong
Published: August 2018

Metabolism of bone is regulated by the balance between osteoblast‐mediated bone formation and osteoclast‐mediated bone resorption. Activation of osteoclasts could lead to osteoporosis. Thus, inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts becomes an available strategy for the treatment of osteoporosis. Tectorigenin is an extract of Belamcanda chinensis In the present study, the anti‐osteoclastogenesis effects of tectorigenin were investigated in vitro and in vivo. The results showed preventive and therapeutic effects of tectorigenin at concentrations of 0, 10, 40, and 80 μmol/L in the maturation and activation of osteoclasts. A signalling study also indicated that tectorigenin treatment reduces activation of NF‐κB signalling in osteoclastogenesis. Animal experiment demonstrated that tectorigenin treatment (1‐10 mg/kg, abdominal injection every 3 days) significantly inhibits bone loss in ovariectomized C57BL/6. Our data suggest that tectorigenin is a potential pharmacological choice for osteoporosis.
Melatonin activates Parkin translocation and rescues the impaired mitophagy activity of diabetic cardiomyopathy through Mst1 inhibition
Authors: Wang Shanjie , Zhao Zhijing , Feng Xinyu , Cheng Zheng , Xiong Zhenyu , Wang Tingting , Lin Jie , Zhang Mingming , Hu Jianqiang , Fan Yanhong , Reiter Russel J. , Wang Haichang , Sun Dongdong
Published: August 2018

Mitophagy eliminates dysfunctional mitochondria and thus plays a cardinal role in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). We observed the favourable effects of melatonin on cardiomyocyte mitophagy in mice with DCM and elucidated their underlying mechanisms. Electron microscopy and flow cytometric analysis revealed that melatonin reduced the number of impaired mitochondria in the diabetic heart. Other than decreasing mitochondrial biogenesis, melatonin increased the clearance of dysfunctional mitochondria in mice with DCM. Melatonin increased LC3 II expression as well as the colocalization of mitochondria and lysosomes in HG‐treated cardiomyocytes and the number of typical autophagosomes engulfing mitochondria in the DCM heart. These results indicated that melatonin promoted mitophagy. When probing the mechanism, increased Parkin translocation to the mitochondria may be responsible for the up‐regulated mitophagy exerted by melatonin. Parkin knockout counteracted the beneficial effects of melatonin on the cardiac mitochondrial morphology and bioenergetic disorders, thus abolishing the substantial effects of melatonin on cardiac remodelling with DCM. Furthermore, melatonin inhibited Mammalian sterile 20‐like kinase 1 (Mst1) phosphorylation, thus enhancing Parkin‐mediated mitophagy, which contributed to mitochondrial quality control. In summary, this study confirms that melatonin rescues the impaired mitophagy activity of DCM. The underlying mechanism may be attributed to activation of Parkin translocation via inhibition of Mst1.
Exosomal miR‐95‐5p regulates chondrogenesis and cartilage degradation via histone deacetylase 2/8
Authors: Mao Guping , Hu Shu , Zhang Ziji , Wu Peihui , Zhao Xiaoyi , Lin Ruifu , Liao Weiming , Kang Yan
Published: August 2018

MicroRNAs play critical roles in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis, the most common chronic degenerative joint disease. Exosomes derived from miR‐95‐5p‐overexpressing primary chondrocytes (AC‐miR‐95‐5p) may be effective in treating osteoarthritis. Increased expression of HDAC2/8 occurs in the tissues and chondrocyte‐secreted exosomes of patients with osteoarthritis and mediates cartilage‐specific gene expression in chondrocytes. We have been suggested that exosomes derived from AC‐miR‐95‐5p (AC‐miR‐95‐5p‐Exos) would enhance chondrogenesis and prevent the development of osteoarthritis by directly targeting HDAC2/8. Our in vitro experiments showed that miR‐95‐5p expression was significantly lower in osteoarthritic chondrocyte‐secreted exosomes than in normal cartilage. Treatment with AC‐miR‐95‐5p‐Exos promoted cartilage development and cartilage matrix expression in mesenchymal stem cells induced to undergo chondrogenesis and chondrocytes, respectively. In contrast, co‐culture with exosomes derived from chondrocytes transfected with an antisense inhibitor of miR‐95‐5p (AC‐anti‐miR‐95‐5p‐Exos) prevented chondrogenic differentiation and reduced cartilage matrix synthesis by enhancing the expression of HDAC2/8. MiR‐95‐5p suppressed the activity of reporter constructs containing the 3ʹ‐untranslated region of HDAC2/8, inhibited HDAC2/8 expression and promoted cartilage matrix expression. Our results suggest that AC‐miR‐95‐5p‐Exos regulate cartilage development and homoeostasis by directly targeting HDAC2/8. Thus, AC‐miR‐95‐5p‐Exos may act as an HDAC2/8 inhibitor and exhibit potential as a disease‐modifying osteoarthritis drug.