bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organization framework and preliminary findings from the Athens First‐Episode Psychosis Research Study
Authors: Xenaki Lida‐Alkisti , Kollias Costas T. , Stefanatou Pentagiotissa , Ralli Irene , Soldatos Rigas‐Filippos , Dimitrakopoulos Stefanos , Hatzimanolis Alex , Triantafyllou Theoni‐Fani , Kosteletos Ioannis , Vlachos Ilias I. , Selakovic Mirjana , Foteli Stefania , Mantonakis Leonidas , Ermiliou Vassiliki , Voulgaraki Marina , Psarra Evagelia , Gülöksüz Sinan , van Os Jim , Stefanis Nikos C.
Published: August 2019

Aims

Athens First‐Episode Psychosis (FEP) Research study, aims to explore the potential associations between multiple genetic, environmental and neurometabolic risk factors of psychotic disorders, through the clinical management of FEP patients with minimal exposure (<2 weeks) to antipsychotic treatment at entry. The goal of this paper is to introduce the background, rationale and design of the study and present its preliminary findings.

Methods

We developed a longitudinal cohort study of FEP patients 16‐45 years old, presenting at the emergency units of five psychiatric hospitals across Athens, Greece. Research timeline includes baseline, 1‐month and 1‐year follow‐up. Clinical, genetic, environmental, cognitive and biochemical parameters are measured, using psychometric tools, clinical interviews and laboratory tests. A descriptive analysis of baseline and 1‐month assessments was performed including demographic characteristics, family history, medication, clinical picture, traumatic experiences, drug use and cognitive functioning.

Results

During the last 3 years, 130 subjects have been enrolled in the study. Data so far reveal that, despite the severity of baseline presentation, at 1‐month the majority (57.4%) met the Andreasen symptom severity criteria for remission, without the time criterion and showed mild functional improvement. Several environmental adversities and poor cognitive performance were identified, which need to be further elaborated.

Conclusions

Athens FEP Research study is the first gene‐environment interaction study in Greece. In this article we introduce the organization and methodological framework of the project, along with its basic initial findings. Future analysis will allow the validation of tractable predictors and risk factors implicated in the development and outcome of psychosis.
Going with the flow: Intraspecific variation may act as a natural ally to counterbalance the impacts of global change for the riparian species Populus deltoides
Authors: Godbout Julie , Gros-Louis Marie‐Claude , Lamothe Manuel , Isabel Nathalie
Published: August 2019

The speed and magnitude of global change will have major impacts on riparian ecosystems, thereby leading to greater forest vulnerability. Assessing species’ adaptive capacities to provide relevant information for vulnerability assessments remains challenging, especially for nonmodel species like the North American Populus deltoides W. Bartram ex Marshall. The objective of this study was to understand how genomic diversity of this foundation species was shaped by its environment (climate, soil, and biotic interactions) to gauge its adaptive capacity. We used two complementary approaches to get a full portrait of P. deltoides genetic diversity at both the species and whole‐genome ranges. First, we used a set of 93 nuclear and three chloroplastic SNP markers in 946 individuals covering most of the species' natural distribution. Then, to measure the degree of intraspecific divergence at the whole‐genome level and to support the outlier and genomic‐environment association analyses, we used a sequence capture approach on DNA pools. Three distinct lineages for P. deltoides were detected, and their current distribution was associated with abiotic and biotic variations. The comparison between both cpDNA and ncDNA patterns showed that gene flow between the lineages is unbalanced. The southern and northeastern populations may benefit from the input, through river flow, of novel alleles located upstream to their local gene pools. These alleles could migrate from populations that are already adapted to conditions that fit the predicted climates in the receiving local populations, hotter at the northeastern limit and drier in the Central United States. These “preadapted” incoming alleles may help to cope with maladaptation in populations facing changing conditions.
Molecular characterisation of Theileria equi and risk factors associated with the occurrence of theileriosis in horses of Punjab (Pakistan)
Authors: Ali S. , Ijaz M. , Farooqi S. H. , Durrani A. Z. , Rashid M. I. , Ghaffar A. , Ali A. , Rehman A. , Aslam S. , Khan I. , Masud A. , Mehmood K.
Published: August 2019

Theileria equi (T. equi) is an obligate intra‐ and extra‐erythrocytic parasite that causes equine theileriosis (ET) in equids. Equine theileriosis is considered a notifiable disease of global significance, a major constraint to the international movement of horses, and endemic in many countries. This disease may be difficult to diagnose, as it can produce variable and nonspecific clinical signs. A cross‐sectional study was designed for the molecular characterisation of T. equi and to investigate the associated risk factors of ET accompanied by its consequences on haematological and sero‐biochemical parameters. A convenience sampling of 500 blood samples were collected from ET suspect horses from January to December 2017. PCR was performed on all blood samples targeting the 18S rRNA gene of T. equi followed by sequencing; 9% animals tested positive with confirmed sequences. The isolates of this study showed high homology with Cuban, Russian and Brazilian isolates of T. equi (accession numbers KY111762.2, MG551915.1 and KY952237.1, respectively). Based on multivariate analysis, the principal risk factors consisted of absence of dogs on the premises and presence of tick infestation. The haemato‐biochemical parameters showed a decrease in granulocytes and erythrocytes, and an increase in lymphocytes, monocytes, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, mean platelet volume, glucose, phosphorus and aspartate aminotransferase in positive horses. This is the first study which identified ET in Punjab (Pakistan) using molecular techniques and risk factors together with the haemato‐biochemical variations in horses.
New advances in the management of cytomegalovirus in allogeneic haemopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Yong Michelle K. , Gottlieb David , Lindsay Julian , Kok Jen , Rawlinson William , Slavin Monica , Ritchie David , Bajel Ashish , Grigg Andrew
Published: August 2019

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) viraemia continues to be a frequent complication in the post‐haemopoietic stem cell transplantation period despite a low incidence of CMV end‐organ disease. Several significant advances in the understanding and management of CMV infection have occurred in the last few years including improved diagnostics, monitoring of CMV immunity, availability of novel anti‐CMV drugs, and emerging use of immunotherapies including CMV‐specific T‐cell infusions. In addition to reviewing these advances we also explore some of the more practical prescribing issues of the older and newer CMV drugs including cost, toxicity and drug interactions to help clinicians navigate this new era of CMV management.
Improving regional lung cancer optimal care pathway compliance through a rapid‐access respiratory clinic
Authors: Jeyakumar Harshan S. , Wright Alistair
Published: August 2019

Background

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer‐related morbidity and mortality in Australia and delays in diagnosis and management increase the potential for disease progression. Incidence and mortality from lung cancer in our region, Gippsland, are higher than the national average, yet there is no known standard referral pathway for diagnosis in the region.

Aim

To identify the current standard of care for lung cancer diagnosis and the impact a rapid access clinic, led by a respiratory physician, has on optimal care pathway (OCP) compliance.

Methods

A retrospective audit of patients with lung cancer managed through our regional hospital between January and December 2018 (Standard Care group), and a prospective audit of a new rapid access, respiratory‐physician led, lung lesion assessment clinic over the same period, were conducted. The primary outcomes were compliance with the OCP target for time from initial computed tomography scan identification of a lung lesion to tissue diagnosis and treatment commencement (target 42 days) when malignancy was confirmed.

Results

There were 25 cases audited in the Standard Care group and 21 cases seen through the Rapid Access Clinic. The Standard Care group met the target for treatment commencement in 33.3% of cases whereas the Rapid Access Clinic group achieved this in 77%.

Conclusions

Our project highlights the disjointed and delayed lung cancer care in our region and the improvements a dedicated rapid access clinic can have on diagnosis and treatment commencement timeframes.
A PI(4,5)P2‐derived “gasoline engine model” for the sustained B cell receptor activation
Authors: Xu Chenguang , Wan Zhengpeng , Shaheen Samina , Wang Jing , Yang Zhiyong , Liu Wanli
Published: August 2019

To efficiently initiate activation responses against rare ligands in the microenvironment, lymphocytes employ sophisticated mechanisms involving signaling amplification. Recently, a signaling amplification mechanism initiated from phosphatidylinositol (PI) 4, 5‐biphosphate [PI(4,5)P2] hydrolysis and synthesis for sustained B cell activation has been reported. Antigen and B cell receptor (BCR) recognition triggered the prompt reduction of PI(4,5)P2 density within the BCR microclusters, which led to the positive feedback for the synthesis of PI(4,5)P2 outside of the BCR microclusters. At single molecule level, the diffusion of PI(4,5)P2 was slow, allowing for the maintenance of a PI(4,5)P2 density gradient between the inside and outside of the BCR microclusters and the persistent supply of PI(4,5)P2 from outside to inside of the BCR microclusters. Here, we review studies that have contributed to uncovering the molecular mechanisms of PI(4,5)P2‐derived signaling amplification model. Based on these studies, we proposed a “gasoline engine model” in which the activation of B cell signaling inside the microclusters is similar to the working principle of burning gasoline within the engine chamber of a gasoline engine. We also discuss the evidences showing the potential universality of this model and future prospects.
Efficiency evaluation and ranking of supply chains based on stochastic multicriteria acceptability analysis and data envelopment analysis
Authors: Ang Sheng , Zhu Yunxia , Yang Feng
Published: August 2019

Evaluating performance of supply chains has been an important topic in supply chain management for researchers and practitioners. In this study, we integrate stochastic multicriteria acceptability analysis (SMAA) technique and data envelopment analysis (DEA) methodology and propose a model, named “two‐stage SMAA‐DEA,” for efficiency evaluation and ranking of two‐stage supply chains (e.g., supplier–manufacturer) with stochastic criteria values. Two stochastic efficiency measures are defined for supply chain efficiency evaluation in the model. The maximum efficiency is the best efficiency score based on the optimistic criterion. The average efficiency is the expected efficiency score based on the average criterion. In addition, the model provides rank acceptability and holistic acceptability index for the supply chain ranking. The developed two‐stage SMAA‐DEA model has several advantages. First, it extends two‐stage DEA models to handle uncertain or imprecise inputs, intermediate measures, and outputs using stochastic distributions. Second, it allows for variable process weights and does not need any prior preference information on processes. Our study extends network DEA to address uncertain or stochastic measures, and the model can be considered as a multicriteria decision‐making method with a two‐stage additive DEA value function. An empirical study evaluating 27 supply chains is presented to illustrate the proposed models.
Effective ionic transport in AgI‐based Ge(Ga)–Sb–S chalcogenide glasses
Authors: Zhang Yeting , Jiao Qing , Ma Baochen , Zhang Xianghua , Liu Xueyun , Dai Shixun
Published: August 2019

AgI‐based Ge–Sb–S, Ga–Sb–S, and Ge–Ga–Sb–S chalcogenide glasses were designed and prepared by melt‐quenching, thereafter their thermal properties and conductive performance were comparatively investigated on the basis of their composition‐induced network structures. Glass transition in each sample was examined by DSC measurements. Results showed that the samples containing Ge had a higher thermal stability than the Ga–Sb–S–AgI sample, and the Ge–Sb–S–AgI sample obtained had the highest conductivity ion. Raman spectrum analysis was performed, and the results indicated that the [GeS4‐xIx] structural units and [SbS3−xIx] pyramids in the matrix produced effective ion transport channel for dissolved conductive Ag+ ions. In the matrix containing Ga, the [Ga(Ge)S4‐xIx] structure was consumed by part of [S3Ga–GaS3] ethane‐like units, which had no contribution to the ion transition framework. The study provided the directions for composition and structure configuration control in effective conductive chalcogenide glasses.
Paving the way for children: Family firm succession and corporate philanthropy in China
Authors: He Wen , Yu Xin
Published: August 2019

We investigate whether internal succession in family firms motivates founders to engage in corporate philanthropy. We argue that founders who intend to pass control of the firm to their children are likely to prepare for the internal succession by building up family assets such as reputation and political connections through corporate philanthropy. Supporting our argument, we find that both the likelihood and the amount of philanthropic donations increase when listed family firms in China are in the internal succession process. The effect of successions on philanthropic donations is stronger for family firms that have political connections or are located in areas with stronger government influence in the local economy. The effect concentrates on family firms when heirs are young and inexperienced. When heirs are established, family firms actually make fewer philanthropic donations. Our results remain robust after addressing endogeneity issues.
Characteristics and roles of extracellular vesicles released by epidermal keratinocytes
Authors: Than U.T.T. , Leavesley D.I. , Parker T.J.
Published: August 2019

Keratinocytes, which constitute 90% of the cells in the epidermis of the skin, have been demonstrated to communicate with other skin cells such as fibroblasts, melanocytes and immune cells through extracellular vesicles (EVs). This communication is facilitated by the enriched EV biomolecular cargo which regulates multiple biological processes within skin tissue, including cell proliferation, cell migration, anti‐apoptosis, pigmentation transfer and extracellular matrix remodelling. This review will provide an overview of the current literature and advances in the field of keratinocyte‐derived EV research with particular regard to the interactions and communication between keratinocytes and other skin cells, mediated by EVs and EV components. Importantly, this information may shed some light on the potential for keratinocyte‐derived EVs in future biomedical studies.
Perceived Stress and Cognitive Decline in Chinese‐American Older Adults
Authors: Chen Yiwei , Liang Ying , Zhang Wei , Crawford Jennifer C. , Sakel Katie L. , Dong XinQi
Published: August 2019

OBJECTIVES

To examine whether higher levels of perceived stress are associated with lower levels of cognitive function and faster cognitive decline in older Chinese‐American adults.

DESIGN

Longitudinal.

SETTING

Population Study of Chinese Elderly in Chicago (PINE).

PARTICIPANTS

PINE is the largest population‐based epidemiological study of Chinese Americans aged 60 and older in the greater Chicago area. Wave 1 data were collected from 3,159 older adults during 2011 to 2013. Wave 2 data were collected from 2,713 older adults during 2013 to 2015.

MEASUREMENTS

In addition to sociodemographic and health‐related variables, participants completed the Chinese Perceived Stress Scale and multiple cognitive tasks. Episodic memory was assessed using the East Boston Memory Tests, perceptual speed was assessed using the Symbol Digit Modalities Test, and working memory was assessed using the Digit Span Backwards.

RESULTS

Controlling for sociodemographic and health‐related variables, mixed‐effects regression models showed that higher levels of perceived stress were associated with poorer episodic memory, perceptual speed, and working memory in older Chinese‐American adults but not with faster cognitive decline over an average 2‐year interval.

CONCLUSION

The present study is the first population‐based, longitudinal study to examine the relationships between perceived stress and cognitive decline in older Chinese‐American adults. It suggests the importance of researchers, social workers, and policy makers developing programs to reduce stress and improve cognitive function in older Chinese‐American adults. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:S519–S524, 2019.
Health Service Use Among Chinese American Older Adults: Is There a Somatization Effect?
Authors: Jiang Lin , Sun Fei , Zhang Wei , Wu Bei , Dong XinQi
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Somatization of depressive symptoms among Chinese American older adults remains understudied. This study aimed to identify whether the relationship between depressive symptoms and use of health services (ie, doctor visits, hospital, and emergency department) could be due to pain and whether acculturation played a role in the relations among depressive symptoms, pain, and health service use.

DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS

Secondary data came from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly in Chicago that surveyed 3159 Chinese community‐dwelling older adults in the greater Chicago area. The average age was 76.3 years (standard deviation = 8.4); 57.95% were female). Negative binominal models were used to identify the effects of depression and pain on each type of health service use, controlling for sociodemographics and health‐related factors (eg, chronic illness).

MEASUREMENTS

Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9; pain was assessed by self‐reported pain severity. Participants were classified into low, moderate, and high acculturation groups based on acculturation scores.

RESULTS

Depressive symptoms and pain were positively related to health service use on the bivariate level. For groups with both low and high acculturation levels, depression and pain each independently predicted more health service use, whereas for the group with a moderate acculturation level, the effect of somatization was substantialized.

CONCLUSION

Depression largely influenced health service use independently and partially through pain for older Chinese Americans. The somatization tended to be only salient for the moderate acculturation group, calling for more research attention to the complicated effect of acculturation. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:S584–S589, 2019.
Depressive Symptoms and Onset of Functional Disability Over 2 Years: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kong Dexia , Solomon Phyllis , Dong XinQi
Published: August 2019

OBJECTIVES

This prospective cohort study examined the relationship between depressive symptoms and onset of functional disability over 2 years among US Chinese older adults, a rapidly growing minority older adult population.

DESIGN AND SETTING

This study used survey data from 2713 Chinese older adults who completed both baseline (2011‐2013) and follow‐up (2013‐2015) interviews of the Population Study of Chinese Elderly in Chicago. Depressive symptoms were assessed at baseline by the nine‐item Patient Health Questionnaire. Functional disability was measured by three validated scales, Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), the Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) scale, and the Rosow and Breslau mobility scale. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted to examine the relationship between baseline depressive symptoms and the development of functional disability (ADLs, IADLs, mobility) at 2‐year follow‐up while adjusting for covariates.

RESULTS

Of the 2713 participants, 5.2% experienced ADL disability onset, 35.6% experienced IADL disability onset, and 23.3% experienced mobility disability onset over 2 years. After adjusting for covariates, the odds of ADL disability onset (odds ratio [OR] = 1.06; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.02‐1.11), IADL disability onset (OR = 1.05; 95% CI = 1.01‐1.09), and mobility disability onset (OR = 1.05; 95% CI = 1.01‐1.09) were consistently higher in US Chinese older adults with higher levels of depressive symptoms than their less‐depressed counterparts. Other significant risk factors included older age and more chronic physical conditions.

CONCLUSION

Study findings underscore a significant relationship between depressive symptoms and onset of functional disability. Screening and, subsequently, treating depressive symptoms have the potential to reduce disability among US Chinese older adults. Culturally relevant depressive symptom screening may help identify Chinese older adults who are at greater risks for the development of functional disability. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:S538–S544, 2019.
Perceived Stress, Social Support, and Dry Mouth Among US Older Chinese Adults
Authors: Mao Weiyu , Chen Yiwei , Wu Bei , Ge Shaoqing , Yang Wei , Chi Iris , Dong XinQi
Published: August 2019

OBJECTIVES

Dry mouth is a common condition among older adults that negatively influences oral health, general health, and quality of life. The role of psychosocial factors in oral health conditions and diseases remains largely unknown. We conducted a study to examine the relationship between perceived stress and dry mouth among US older Chinese adults and further investigated the potential moderating role of social support and social strain from different sources in the relationship.

DESIGN

Cross‐sectional analysis.

SETTING

Baseline of the Population Study of Chinese Elderly in Chicago, a community‐engaged, population‐based longitudinal study of health and well‐being among community‐dwelling US older Chinese adults.

PARTICIPANTS

Individuals 60 years or older (N = 3157).

MEASUREMENTS

Perceived stress was measured by the 10‐item Chinese Perceived Stress Scale to evaluate the degree to which life situations were perceived as stressful during the preceding month on a 5‐point scale, ranging from 0 (“never”) to 4 (“very often”). Dry mouth was a binary self‐reported outcome variable (1 = “dry mouth”). Social support was measured by the Health and Retirement Study's social support and strain scale from sources including spouse, other family members, and friends with a 3‐point response set, ranging from 0 (“hardly ever”) to 2 (“often”). Sociodemographics and disease processes were assessed as covariates. We conducted stepwise logistic regressions with interaction terms.

RESULTS

Having higher levels of perceived stress was significantly associated with a higher likelihood of reporting dry mouth (odds ratio = 1.03; 95% confidence interval = 1.02‐1.04). The effect of perceived stress on dry mouth may vary by levels of family and friend support.

CONCLUSION

Perceived stress may influence dry mouth either directly or indirectly. To prevent or reduce dry mouth, in addition to disease processes, interventions need to consider psychosocial factors in dry mouth, especially perceived stress and social support, in this growing population. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:S551–S556, 2019.
Life Course Violence: Child Maltreatment, IPV, and Elder Abuse Phenotypes in a US Chinese Population
Authors: Wang Bei , Dong XinQi
Published: August 2019

OBJECTIVES

To examine the associations between violence experiences including phenotypes (psychological, physical/sexual abuse, financial exploitation, caregiver neglect) of child maltreatment (CM), intimate partner violence (IPV), and elder abuse (EA).

DESIGN

Cross‐sectional data collected during 2011‐2013.

SETTING

US Chinese community in Chicago, Illinois.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 3157 community‐dwelling older adults (aged ≥60 y).

MEASUREMENTS

Cases of CM, IPV, and EA.

RESULTS

Prevalence of violence was 11.4% for CM (physical/sexual = 10.2%; psychological = 2.4%), 6.5% for IPV (psychological = 5.3%; physical/sexual = 2.8%), and 15.2% for EA (caregiver neglect = 11.2%; psychological = 9.8%; financial exploitation = 9.3%; physical/sexual = 1.2%). After adjusting for potential confounding variables, CM psychological was associated with increased risks for IPV psychological (odds ratio [OR] = 7.60; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.29‐13.45), IPV physical/sexual (OR = 4.06; CI = 1.71‐9.63), EA psychological (OR = 3.79; 95% CI = 2.20‐6.51), and EA financial exploitation (OR = 2.07; 95% CI = 1.12‐3.81). CM physical/sexual was associated with increased risks for IPV physical/sexual (OR = 1.86; 95% CI = 1.02‐3.38), EA psychological (OR = 1.70; 95% CI = 1.20‐2.42), and EA financial exploitation (OR = 2.38; 95% CI = 1.72‐3.30). IPV psychological and physical/sexual were associated with 5 to 8 times increased risks for EA psychological, 6 to 9 times increased risks for EA physical/sexual, and 3 times increased risks for EA financial exploitation.

CONCLUSION

Healthcare professionals working with older adults should be informed that a history of violence might further predispose a person to different types of EA. The cumulative impact of violence should also be considered when providing services or care to violence victims. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:S486–S492, 2019.
Leveraging Technology to Improve Health Disparity Research: Trilingual Data Collection Using Tablets
Authors: Dong XinQi , Kong Dexia , Mendhe Dinesh , Bergren Stephanie M.
Published: August 2019

Survey research is an essential component of epidemiological research to understand the health of older adults. However, there are several limitations to conventional data collection methods that may serve as barriers for recruitment and retention of research participants, especially from minority populations. With recent technological advancements, our research team developed an innovative data collection and management system to address linguistic and cultural barriers, data quality, data security, and data preparation issues. This platform has been utilized in the Population Study of Chinese Elderly in Chicago since 2011. Future use and improvement of this system will facilitate research among minority older adults and increase research participation and representativeness to ultimately understand and improve the health and well‐being of diverse populations. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:S479–S485, 2019.
A comparative multi‐site and whole‐body assessment of fascia in the horse and dog: a detailed histological investigation
Authors: Ahmed Waqas , Kulikowska Marta , Ahlmann Trine , Berg Lise C. , Harrison Adrian P. , Elbrønd Vibeke Sødring
Published: August 2019

Fascia in the veterinary sciences is drawing attention, such that physiotherapists and animal practitioners are now applying techniques based on the concept of fascia studies in humans. A comprehensive study of fascia is therefore needed in animals to understand the arrangement of the fascial layers in an unguligrade horse and a digitigrade dog. This study has examined the difference between the horse and the dog fascia at specific regions, in terms of histology, and has compared it with the human model. Histological examinations show that in general the fascia tissue of the horse exhibits a tight and dense composition, while in the dog it is looser and has non‐dense structure. Indeed, equine fascia appears to be different from both canine fascia and the human fascia model, whilst canine fascia is very comparable to the human model. Although regional variations were observed, the superficial fascia (fascia superficialis) in the horse was found to be trilaminar in the trunk, yet multilayered in the dog. Moreover, crimping of collagen fibers was more visible in the horse than the dog. Blood vessels and nerves were present in the loose areolar tissue of the superficial and the profound compartment of hypodermis. The deep fascia (fascia profunda) in the horse was thick and tightly attached to the underlying muscle, while in the dog the deep fascia was thin and loosely attached to underlying structures. Superficial and deep fascia fused in the extremities. In conclusion, gross dissection and histology have revealed species variations that are related to the absence or presence of the superficial adipose tissue, the retinacula cutis superficialis, the localization and amount of elastic fibers, as well as the ability to slide and glide between the different layers. Further research is now needed to understand in more detail whether these differences have an influence on the biomechanics, movements and proprioception of these animals.
Expression of endogenous phospholipase D1, localized in mouse submandibular gland, is greater in females and is suppressed by testosterone
Authors: Khrongyut Suthankamon , Polsan Yada , Sakaew Waraporn , Sawatpanich Tarinee , Banno Yoshiko , Nozawa Yoshinori , Kondo Hisatake , Hipkaeo Wiphawi
Published: August 2019

To clarify the signal transduction mechanism in the differentiation and secretion of salivary glandular cells, the present study was attempted to examine in the submandibular gland (SMG) of mice, the expression and localization of phospholipase D1 (PLD1), one of the important effector molecules working in response to the activation of intramembranous receptors by first messengers. In immunoblotting analysis, the expression of PLD1 was high at postnatal 4 weeks (P4W) and decreased at P8W, and it was at negligible levels at newborn stage (P0W) and postnatal 2 weeks (P2W). The expression of PLD1 was greater in females, and it was suppressed by administration of testosterone to female mice. In immuno‐light microscopy, immunoreactivity for PLD1 at P4W was moderate to intense, in the forms of dots and globules mainly in the apical domains of immature granular convoluted tubule (GCT)‐cells localized largely in the proximal portion of the female GCT. By P8W, it decreased in intensity and remained weak to moderate along the apical plasmalemma of cells throughout the course of the female GCT, whereas it was faint throughout the GCT of the male SMG at P4W and negligible at P8W. In immuno‐electron microscopy, immature GCT‐cells characterized by electron‐lucent granules were immunoreactive and the immunoreactive materials were deposited close to, but not within, those granules. Typical GCT cells, characterized by electron‐dense granules, were immunonegative. No significant immunoreaction for PLD1 was seen in acini of SMGs of either sex at any time point examined. It is suggested that PLD1 is involved in the signaling for secretion of immature GCT cells and influences differentiation of these cells, probably through their own secretory substances.
Stability and change of basic personal values in early adolescence: A 2‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Vecchione Michele , Schwartz Shalom H. , Davidov Eldad , Cieciuch Jan , Alessandri Guido , Marsicano Gilda
Published: August 2019

Objective

We examined patterns of change and stability in the whole set of 10 Schwartz values over 2 years during early adolescence.

Method

Participants completed the Portrait Values Questionnaire repeatedly throughout the junior high school years. The study involved six waves of data and a total of 382 respondents aged 10 years at the first measurement occasion (43% female). We investigated multiple types of stability in the values: mean‐level, rank‐order, and ipsative stability.

Results

At the mean‐level, self‐enhancement, and Openness to change values increased in importance. Self‐direction and hedonism values showed the greatest increase—about one‐third of a standard deviation. Conservation and self‐transcendence values did not change with the exception of tradition, which decreased slightly. After correcting for measurement error, rank‐order stability coefficients ranged from .39 (hedonism) to .77 (power). Correlations between value hierarchies measured 2 years apart were ≥.85 for 75% of respondents, and ≤.12 for 5% of the respondents. Thus only a small proportion of participants experienced a marked change in the relative importance they ascribed to the 10 values.

Conclusions

Results are discussed and related to earlier findings on patterns and magnitude of value change during other periods of the life span.
Influencers of children's vegetable liking—A look from a social and cultural perspective
Authors: Estay Karinna , Lestringant Pauline , Pan Shuliang , Zhong Fang , Capitaine Chloé , Agosín Eduardo , Guinard Jean‐Xavier
Published: August 2019

This study examined how similar vegetable liking by children is to their peers', siblings', and mothers'. Three hundred and eighty‐four children (ages 5–12) and their mothers, from three countries—Chile, China, and the United States, tasted and rated 14 different vegetables for liking. To evaluate how children's vegetable liking varies with their social environment, we developed the degree of liking difference index, which is the sum of absolute differences between the likings of the child with the likings of a second person. Results suggest that country, child's age, and sensory modalities (appearance, aroma, taste and texture) are important factors that influence how much a child's vegetable liking resembles their mothers', peers', and siblings'. Children's vegetable liking resemblance with their family and peers was greatest in China, followed by the United States, and finally Chile. Children's vegetable liking was most similar to that of their siblings, followed by mothers, and finally peers, with similarity to all three groups tending to increase as children's ages increased.

Practical applications

It is a key to understand how children's social environments influence their vegetable liking in order to develop successful strategies to increase vegetable consumption in childhood. This study analyzes the similarity of children vegetable liking with their mothers, siblings and peers. The results of this study suggest that future behavioral/intervention research should focus on using family to encourage children to eat vegetables.
Growth and Decline of Evangelicals, Fundamentalists, Pentecostals, and Charismatics in Switzerland 1970–2013
Authors: Stolz Jörg , Favre Olivier
Published: August 2019

This article describes and explains patterns of growth and decline undergone by evangelical, fundamentalist, and Pentecostal/Charismatic (EFPC) denominations in Switzerland from 1970 to 2013. We combine data from different censuses, membership registers of denominations, and a National Congregation Study (NCS) to establish and explain patterns of growth and decline. Our main results are that (1) the overall EFPC milieu has grown since the 1970s; (2) the growth is predominantly caused by a rather strong increase in membership of Pentecostal/Charismatic denominations. In contrast, evangelical denominations are overall rather stable, while fundamentalists seem to be in decline; (3) EFPC growth is not related to deprivation orientation, strictness, or socialization efforts, but to recruitment focus and spontaneity of ritual. We discuss these findings in the light of different theories.
The Hamburg meteorite fall: Fireball trajectory, orbit, and dynamics
Authors: Brown P. G. , Vida D. , Moser D. E. , Granvik M. , Koshak W. J. , Chu D. , Steckloff J. , Licata A. , Hariri S. , Mason J. , Mazur M. , Cooke W. , Krzeminski Z.
Published: August 2019

The Hamburg (H4) meteorite fell on 17 January 2018 at 01:08 UT approximately 10 km north of Ann Arbor, Michigan. More than two dozen fragments totaling under 1 kg were recovered, primarily from frozen lake surfaces. The fireball initial velocity was 15.83 ± 0.05 km s−1, based on four independent records showing the fireball above 50 km altitude. The radiant had a zenith angle of 66.14 ± 0.29° and an azimuth of 121.56 ± 1.2°. The resulting low inclination (<1°) Apollo‐type orbit has a large aphelion distance and Tisserand value relative to Jupiter (Tj) of ~3. Two major flares dominate the energy deposition profile, centered at 24.1 and 21.7 km altitude, respectively, under dynamic pressures of 5–7 MPa. The Geostationary Lightning Mapper on the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite‐16 also detected the two main flares and their relative timing and peak flux agree with the video‐derived brightness profile. Our preferred total energy for the Hamburg fireball is 2–7 T TNT (8.4–28 × 109 J), which corresponds to a likely initial mass in the range of 60–225 kg or diameter between 0.3 and 0.5 m. Based on the model of Granvik et al. (2018), the meteorite originated in an escape route from the mid to outer asteroid belt. Hamburg is the 14th known H chondrite with an instrumentally derived preatmospheric orbit, half of which have small (<5°) inclinations making connection with (6) Hebe problematic. A definitive parent body consistent with all 14 known H chondrite orbits remains elusive.
Cost evaluations in health professions education: a systematic review of methods and reporting quality
Authors: Foo Jonathan , Cook David A , Walsh Kieran , Golub Robert , Abdalla Mohamed Elhassan , Ilic Dragan , Maloney Stephen
Published: August 2019

Context

High‐quality research into education costs can inform better decision making. Improvements to cost research can be guided by information about the research questions, methods and reporting of studies evaluating costs in health professions education (HPE). Our objective was to appraise the overall state of the field and evaluate temporal trends in the methods and reporting quality of cost evaluations in HPE research.

Methods

We searched the MEDLINE, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), EMBASE, Business Source Complete and ERIC (Education Resources Information Centre) databases on 31 July 2017. To evaluate trends over time, we sampled research reports at 5‐year intervals (2001, 2006, 2011 and 2016). All original research studies in HPE that reported a cost outcome were included. The Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument (MERSQI) and the BMJ economic checklist were used to appraise methodological and reporting quality, respectively. Trends in quality over time were analysed.

Results

A total of 78 studies were included, of which 16 were published in 2001, 15 in 2006, 20 in 2011 and 27 in 2016. The region most commonly represented was the USA (n = 43). The profession most commonly referred to was that of the physician (n = 46). The mean ± standard deviation (SD) MERSQI score was 10.9 ± 2.6 out of 18, with no significant change over time (p = 0.55). The mean ± SD BMJ score was 13.5 ± 7.1 out of 35, with no significant change over time (p = 0.39). A total of 49 (63%) studies stated a cost‐related research question, 23 (29%) stated the type of cost evaluation used, and 31 (40%) described the method of estimating resource quantities and unit costs. A total of 16 studies compared two or more interventions and reported both cost and learning outcomes.

Conclusions

The absolute number of cost evaluations in HPE is increasing. However, there are shortcomings in the quality of methodology and reporting, and these are not improving over time.
Towards a greater understanding of narrative data on trainee performance
Authors: Scarff Catherine Elizabeth
Published: August 2019

Interpretation of narrative assessment data involves the use of various strategies and perspectives. In this commentary Scarff outlines the implications that derive from such variability.
A two‐level mixed‐integer programming model for bridge replacement prioritization
Authors: Zhang Ning , Alipour Alice
Published: August 2019

A bridge network is an essential part of the transportation system. Therefore, the restoration and replacement activities of aging bridges result in severe traffic delays and disruptions that heavily impact the daily traffic. Accelerated bridge construction (ABC) techniques are rapidly gaining acceptance as an alternative to conventional construction due to reduced construction duration and minimum closure impact at the network level. The limitations and completion rates vary depending on types of ABC. There is a trade‐off between a faster ABC technique with higher investment and a faster construction of a critical bridge in the network resulting large savings to users. To provide a balanced portfolio of ABC techniques on bridge sites and the prioritization of bridges for replacement, this paper develops a mixed‐integer programming (MIP) model with two levels. In this model, a network‐level scheme is used to select bridges for rapid replacement based on their criticality to the network, and a project‐level scheme is used to optimize the choice of ABC techniques for each selected bridge. To account for the effects of different construction strategies for bridge replacement, the costs associated with each replacement activity are calculated, including direct costs from the actual replacement of bridges and indirect costs experienced by network users due to bridge closures during maintenance. Using the MIP model and based on investment, outcomes are estimated for the enhanced serviceability, efficient ABC techniques, an optimal bridge replacement strategy, and minimized total cost during the entire process. These outcomes could provide decision makers and stakeholders with a complete understanding of the prioritization process at both the network and project levels.
Aspergillus specific nested PCR from the site of infection is superior to testing concurrent blood samples in immunocompromised patients with suspected invasive aspergillosis
Authors: Boch Tobias , Spiess Birgit , Heinz Werner , Cornely Oliver A. , Schwerdtfeger Rainer , Hahn Joachim , Krause Stefan W. , Duerken Matthias , Bertz Hartmut , Reuter Stefan , Kiehl Michael , Claus Bernd , Deckert Peter Markus , Hofmann Wolf‐Karsten , Buchheidt Dieter , Reinwald Mark
Published: August 2019

Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a severe complication in immunocompromised patients. Early diagnosis is crucial to decrease its high mortality, yet the diagnostic gold standard (histopathology and culture) is time‐consuming and cannot offer early confirmation of IA. Detection of IA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) shows promising potential. Various studies have analysed its diagnostic performance in different clinical settings, especially addressing optimal specimen selection. However, direct comparison of different types of specimens in individual patients though essential, is rarely reported. We systematically assessed the diagnostic performance of an Aspergillus‐specific nested PCR by investigating specimens from the site of infection and comparing it with concurrent blood samples in individual patients (pts) with IA. In a retrospective multicenter analysis PCR was performed on clinical specimens (n = 138) of immunocompromised high‐risk pts (n = 133) from the site of infection together with concurrent blood samples. 38 pts were classified as proven/probable, 67 as possible and 28 as no IA according to 2008 European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer/Mycoses Study Group consensus definitions. A considerably superior performance of PCR from the site of infection was observed particularly in pts during antifungal prophylaxis (AFP)/antifungal therapy (AFT). Besides a specificity of 85%, sensitivity varied markedly in BAL (64%), CSF (100%), tissue samples (67%) as opposed to concurrent blood samples (8%). Our results further emphasise the need for investigating clinical samples from the site of infection in case of suspected IA to further establish or rule out the diagnosis.
From passive to informed: mechanical mechanisms of seed dispersal
Authors: Seale Madeleine , Nakayama Naomi
Published: August 2019

Plant dispersal mechanisms rely on anatomical and morphological adaptations for the use of physical or biological dispersal vectors. Recently, studies of interactions between the dispersal unit and physical environment have uncovered fluid dynamic mechanisms of seed flight, protective measures against fire, and release mechanisms of explosive dispersers. Although environmental conditions generally dictate dispersal distances, plants are not purely passive players in these processes. Evidence suggests that some plants may enact informed dispersal, where dispersal‐related traits are modified according to the environment. This can occur via developmental regulation, but also on shorter timescales via structural remodelling in relation to water availability and temperature. Linking interactions between dispersal mechanisms and environmental conditions will be essential to fully understand population dynamics and distributions.
When the outcome is different than expected: Subjective expectancy shapes reward prediction error at the FRN level
Authors: Walentowska Wioleta , Severo Mario Carlo , Moors Agnes , Pourtois Gilles
Published: August 2019

Converging evidence in human electrophysiology suggests that evaluative feedback provided during performance monitoring (PM) elicits two distinctive and successive ERP components: the feedback‐related negativity (FRN) and the P3b. Whereas the FRN has previously been linked to reward prediction error (RPE), the P3b has been conceived as reflecting motivational or attentional processes following the early processing of the RPE, including action value updating. However, it remains unclear whether these two consecutive neurophysiological effects depend on the direction of the unexpectedness (better‐ or worse‐than‐expected outcomes; signed RPE) or instead only on the degree of unexpectedness irrespective of direction (i.e., unsigned RPE). To address this question, we devised an experiment in which we manipulated the objective reward probability and the subjective reward expectancy (via instructions) in a factorial within‐subject design and explored amplitude changes of the FRN and the P3b. A 64‐channel EEG was recorded while 32 participants performed a speeded go/no‐go task in which evaluative feedback based on the reward probability either violated expectancy (thereby creating a RPE) or did not. This violation corresponded either to better‐ or worse‐than‐expected events. Results showed that the FRN was larger when RPE occurred than when it did not, but irrespective of the direction of this violation. Interestingly, in these two conditions, action value was updated for the positive feedback selectively, as shown by the P3b amplitude. These results obey a two‐stage model of PM assuming that unsigned RPE is first rapidly detected (FRN level) before the positive feedback’s value is updated selectively (P3b effect).
Political interference and regulatory resilience in Brazil
Authors: Correa Paulo , Melo Marcus , Mueller Bernardo , Pereira Carlos
Published: August 2019

Governments face a fundamental tradeoff between regulatory independence and control. Attempts of interference have the effect of reducing the system's level of commitment and credibility. On the other hand, an administration runs the risk that the autonomy delegated to regulators might be used to pursue outcomes that may harm their interests. This tradeoff is particularly relevant when there is an alternation of power with the arrival of a new political elite with different preferences. This paper uses data from a 2016 survey on regulatory governance applied to Brazilian regulatory agencies. This data is compared to a similar survey performed in 2005. The new survey results turn out to be surprisingly similar to those of a decade earlier, suggesting strong resilience of regulatory agencies despite significant attempts at political interference by powerful presidents. The factors explaining the resilience of regulatory governance in Brazil lie in its broader institutional endowment, which moderates the effects of executive interference.