bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secondary metabolism associated with softening of shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes) induced by O2 depletion and CO2 accumulation
Authors: Ni Zhendan , Xu Shixiang , Bu Jianwen , Ying Tiejin
Published: August 2017

It is difficult to preserve fresh shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes (Berk.) sing) partly because of the rapid deterioration of texture (softening or lignification). In this study, we developed a storage model in which tissue softening was induced to analyse the relationship between changes in firmness and alterations in cell wall chemical components as well as their metabolism. The results showed that the treatment group accumulated more CO2 and contained less O2 because of the poorer permeability in package. The contents of glucan and chitin in the treatment group decreased from 241.3 ± 13.2 mg g−1 and 46.3 ± 1.2 mg g−1 to 157.3 ± 11.2 mg g−1 and 18.0 ± 1.0 mg g−1 (P < 0.05) with the accumulation of CO2. The activities of major cell wall degradation‐related enzymes were enhanced in the softening model, and the expression levels of major genes that encode enzymes related to cell wall degradation were upregulated. Our results suggested that the softening of shiitake mushrooms induced by high CO2 was associated with the degradation of polysaccharides and glycosaminoglycan and that these changes were systematically regulated by alterations in the activities and expression levels of related enzymes and genes.
The internalising and externalising problems of adolescents in Croatia: Socio‐demographic and family victimisation factors
Authors: Ajduković Marina , Rajhvajn Bulat Linda , Sušac Nika
Published: August 2017

This study assessed Croatian adolescents' problems in relation to socio‐demographic characteristics and experienced family violence in early and late adolescence. A national representative sample of 1,780 Croatian students (45.3% males) in two age groups representing early (M = 13.20; SD = 0.42) and late adolescence (M = 18.14; SD = 0.38) participated. The questionnaire included the Youth Self‐Report, modified version of ISPCAN Child Abuse Screening Tool – Children's Version, and socio‐demographic data. Results show that internalising problems were more present in female adolescents, in adolescents who perceived family financial hardship and in those whose biological parents did not live together. More externalising problems were reported in late adolescence by students who were living in large cities and whose families had either low, or above‐average, financial status. Adolescents who have experienced family violence were at higher risk of developing internalising and/or externalising problems.
THE INCIDENCE OF TOXOPLASMA ANTIBODIES IN MENTAL HOSPITAL PATIENTS
Authors: COOK IAN , DERRICK E. H.
Published: August 2017

Of 342 inmates of a mental hospital, 19 possessed complement‐fixing and 60 dye‐test antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii.

The incidence of complement‐fixing antibodies was less in the hospital patients than in the general population. This suggests that the risk of post‐natal infection with Toxoplasma was less in the hospital environment than outside.

Among 116 children with congenital mental deficiency of unspecified ætiology, there was serological evidence that Toxoplasma was a possible cause in eight, or 7%, but in none was this confirmed by the presence of chorio‐retinitis or cerebral calcification.

In the patients studied, toxoplasmosis was at most only a rare cause of congenital mental deficiency.
Employee dispositions to job and organization as antecedents and consequences of information systems use
Authors: Bala Hillol , Bhagwatwar Akshay
Published: August 2017

Organizations implement information systems to improve employee productivity and engender favourable organizational outcomes. Although there is evidence of positive outcomes of system use, research has suggested that system use may lead to negative consequences for employees and organizations. There has been limited research that focuses on how employees' use of information systems in the workplace is associated with their positive and negative dispositions to job and organization. We develop and test a model that posits that dispositions to job (ie, job satisfaction, job security, job anxiety, and emotional exhaustion), and organization (ie, organizational commitment and organizational trust) will play a dual role of antecedents and consequences of system use. We conducted 2 longitudinal studies in the context of 2 different systems—a functional system and an enterprise system—and found support for our hypotheses (N = 257 and 181, respectively). We found that preimplementation job and organizational dispositions significantly predicted both lean and rich measures of system use. Further, we found that rich measures of system use (ie, cognitive absorption use and deep structure use) had differential impacts on postimplementation employee dispositions—functional system use had a positive impact and enterprise system use had a negative impact. Overall, our findings offer a comprehensive understanding of system use, and its antecedents and consequences for employees in organizations.
The NLPR3 inflammasome and obesity‐related kidney disease
Authors: Ke Ben , Shen Wen , Fang Xiangdong , Wu Qinghua
Published: August 2017

Over the past decade, the prevalence of obesity has increased, accompanied by a parallel increase in the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Mounting evidence suggests that high body mass index (BMI) and obesity are important risk factors for CKD, but little is known about the mechanisms of obesity‐related kidney disease (ORKD). The NLRP3 inflammasome is a polyprotein complex that plays a crucial role in the inflammatory process, and numerous recent studies suggest that the NLRP3 inflammasome is involved in ORKD development and may serve as a key modulator of ORKD. Moreover, inhibiting activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome has been shown to attenuate ORKD. In this review, we summarize recent progress in understanding the link between the NLRP3 inflammasome and ORKD and discuss targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome as a novel therapeutic approach for ORKD.
Commentary: The importance of exploring dose‐dependent, subtype‐specific, and age‐related effects of maltreatment on the HPA axis and the mediating link to psychopathology. A response to Fisher (2017)
Authors: White Lars O. , Ising Marcus , von Klitzing Kai , Sierau Susan , Michel Andrea , Klein Annette M. , Müller‐Myhsok Bertram , Uhr Manfred , Crowley Michael J. , Kirschbaum Clemens , Stalder Tobias
Published: August 2017

We greatly appreciate Dr. Fisher's commentary that provides an excellent backdrop and well‐considered perspective on our findings. We agree that our results mesh well with previous work documenting hypocortisolism among youth who experienced early adversity, especially neglect. Moreover, as also perceptively noted by Dr. Fisher, our cross‐sectional data provide support for the notion that hypocortisolism is not simply a transient phenomenon, but, rather, a persistent pattern characterizing maltreated youth. Specifically, the consistency of the between group effect (from age 9.69 onwards) on a multimonth index of cumulative cortisol and the dose‐dependent gradient of cortisol secretion within the maltreated group, which was related to the number of subtypes and the length of exposure to maltreatment, lend weight to this view.
SHARE REPURCHASES AND THE FLEXIBILITY HYPOTHESIS
Authors: Iyer Subramanian Rama , Rao Ramesh P.
Published: September 2017

Using the financial crisis as a natural experiment, we test whether repurchases are more flexible than dividends. We document that the proportion of repurchasing firms that reduced repurchase payouts is greater than the proportion of dividend payers that reduced their dividends during the financial crisis period. We find that the market performance of repurchase‐reducing firms is better than that of dividend‐reducing firms over the financial crisis period. Finally, we find that the operating performance of share repurchasers is better than dividend payers during the financial crisis and postcrisis periods. Overall, we conclude that share repurchases are more flexible than dividends.
The Evolving Nature and Process of Foster Family Communication: An Application and Adaptation of the Family Adoption Communication Model
Authors: Nelson Leslie Rose
Published: September 2017

In the current article I call for a better understanding of the process and evolution of foster family communication across the life span. First, I expose the communicative complexities of foster families. Second, I illuminate the importance of communication openness and birth family contact in both adoptive and foster family contexts. Third, through an application of the family adoption communication (FAC) model, I propose a framework for understanding how the process of foster family communication may evolve (i.e., foster family communication model). Last, I set forth directions for future research on foster family communication.
Efficacy of a concomitant elemental diet to reduce the loss of response to adalimumab in patients with intractable Crohn's disease
Authors: Sugita Naoko , Watanabe Kenji , Kamata Noriko , Yukawa Tomomi , Otani Koji , Hosomi Shuhei , Nagami Yasuaki , Tanaka Fumio , Taira Koichi , Yamagami Hirokazu , Tanigawa Tetsuya , Shiba Masatsugu , Watanabe Toshio , Tominaga Kazunari , Kabata Daijiro , Shintani Ayumi , Arakawa Tetsuo , Fujiwara Yasuhiro
Published: August 2017

Background and Aim

Secondary loss of response to adalimumab (ADA‐LOR) commonly occurs in patients with Crohn's disease (CD) treated with adalimumab (ADA). We evaluated the efficacy of concomitant elemental diet (ED) therapy to reduce ADA‐LOR in adult CD patients.

Methods

Patients were divided into either an ED (≥900 kcal/day) or a non‐ED group (<900 kcal/day). Cumulative non‐ADA‐LOR rates were compared between groups. The effects of ED intake to reduce ADA‐LOR were also assessed in antitumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α)‐naïve and infliximab (IFX)‐intolerant or refractory CD patients. Serum ADA and TNF‐α levels were measured.

Results

We enrolled 117 CD patients into the ED (n = 25) or non‐ED (n = 92) groups. Although the cumulative non‐ADA‐LOR rate was higher in the ED group than in the non‐ED group, ED intake was not an independent reducing factor for ADA‐LOR (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.725; 95% confidence interval: 0.448–1.180; P = 0.196) in all patients. ED intake was significantly more effective in reducing ADA‐LOR in IFX‐intolerant or refractory patients than in anti‐TNF‐α‐naïve patients in a dose‐related manner (P for interaction <0.20). Serum ADA levels did not differ between the groups. Serum TNF‐α levels were significantly lower in the ED group than in the non‐ED group at week 28 (P = 0.044) and week 52 (P = 0.043).

Conclusions

Concomitant ED therapy reduced ADA‐LOR in IFX‐intolerant or refractory patients in a dose‐related manner. Reductions in the TNF‐α levels by concomitant ED intake may contribute to reduce ADA‐LOR in CD patients.
Single particle raster image analysis of diffusion for particle mixtures
Authors: LONGFILS M. , RÖDING M. , ALTSKÄR A. , SCHUSTER E. , LORÉN N. , SÄRKKÄ A. , RUDEMO M.
Published: September 2017

Recently we complemented the raster image correlation spectroscopy (RICS) method of analysing raster images via estimation of the image correlation function with the method single particle raster image analysis (SPRIA). In SPRIA, individual particles are identified and the diffusion coefficient of each particle is estimated by a maximum likelihood method. In this paper, we extend the SPRIA method to analyse mixtures of particles with a finite set of diffusion coefficients in a homogeneous medium. In examples with simulated and experimental data with two and three different diffusion coefficients, we show that SPRIA gives accurate estimates of the diffusion coefficients and their proportions. A simple technique for finding the number of different diffusion coefficients is also suggested. Further, we study the use of RICS for mixtures with two different diffusion coefficents and investigate, by plotting level curves of the correlation function, how large the quotient between diffusion coefficients needs to be in order to allow discrimination between models with one and two diffusion coefficients. We also describe a minor correction (compared to published papers) of the RICS autocorrelation function.
Predictive value of serum markers for postacne scarring
Authors: El‐Taweel Abdel Aziz , Salem Rehab Mohammed , El‐Shimi Ola S
Published: August 2017

Background

Postacne scarring is the main concern of many acne patients. Predicting the liability to scarring can alter the management protocols and help in preventing such disfigurement.

Methods

Sixty patients with moderate to severe acne vulgaris (according to Global Acne Grading system) were included, only 35 of them had postacne scars. A quantitative latex agglutination commercial kit was used to assess serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) concentration by turbidimetry, while serum hepcidin concentration was assessed by a commercially available double‐antibody sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit.

Results

Patients with postacne scarring had significantly lower serum levels of hepcidin (P‐value < .001) and significantly higher serum levels of CRP (P‐value < .05).

Conclusion

Serum levels of hepcidin and CRP are promising markers, which may be considered as objective tools to predict the possibility of postacne scarring.
Desmosterol accumulation in users of amiodarone
Authors: Simonen P. , Lehtonen J. , Lampi A. ‐M. , Piironen V. , Stenman U. ‐H. , Kupari M. , Gylling H.
Published: September 2017

Background

Amiodarone is an effective and widely used antiarrhythmic drug with many possible adverse effects including hypercholesterolaemia and hepatotoxicity.

Objective

Our aim was to evaluate how long‐term amiodarone treatment affects cholesterol metabolism.

Methods

The study population consisted of 56 cardiac patients, of whom 20 were on amiodarone (amiodarone + group) and 36 did not use the drug (amiodarone − group). We also studied a control group of 124 individuals selected randomly from the population. Cholesterol metabolism was evaluated by analysis of serum noncholesterol sterols by gas–liquid chromatography and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry.

Results

Comparisons of serum lipids and noncholesterol sterols across the three groups showed increased serum triglyceride in users of amiodarone but no statistically significant group differences in total, LDL or HDL cholesterol or serum proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 concentrations. Nor did the groups differ in the ratios of cholestanol or plant sterols to cholesterol in serum, suggesting that cholesterol absorption was unaltered. However, all users of amiodarone had very markedly elevated serum desmosterol concentrations: the desmosterol‐to‐cholesterol ratio (102 × μmol mmol−1) averaged 1030.7 ± 115.7 (mean ± SE) in the amiodarone + group versus 82.7 ± 3.4 and 75.9 ± 1.4 in the amiodarone − and the population control groups (P < 0.001), respectively.

Conclusion

Use of amiodarone was associated with on average 12‐fold serum desmosterol concentrations compared with the control groups. This observation is fully novel and suggests that amiodarone interferes with the conversion of desmosterol to cholesterol in the cholesterol synthesis pathway. Whether accumulation of desmosterol plays a role in amiodarone‐induced hepatotoxicity deserves to be studied in the future.
Maxillary implant‐supported overdentures opposed by (partial) natural dentitions: a 5‐year prospective case series study
Authors: Boven G. C. , Slot J. W. A. , Raghoebar G. M. , Vissink A. , Meijer H. J. A.
Published: August 2017

The aim of this study was to assess the 5‐year treatment outcome of maxillary implant‐retained overdentures opposed by natural antagonistic teeth. Fifty consecutive patients received maxillary overdentures supported by six dental implants. Implants were placed in the anterior region, if enough bone was present (n = 25 patients) Implant were placed in the posterior region if implant placement in the anterior region was not possible (n = 25 patients). Variables assessed included survival of implants, condition of hard and soft peri‐implant tissues and patients' satisfaction. The five‐year implant survival rate was 97·0% and 99·3%, and mean radiographic bone loss was 0·23 and 0·69 mm in the anterior and posterior group, respectively. Median scores for plaque, calculus, gingiva, bleeding and mean scores for pocket probing depth were low and stayed low. Patients' satisfaction after treatment was high in both groups. Within the limits of this 5‐year study, it is concluded that six dental implants (placed in the anterior or posterior region) connected with a bar and opposed to natural antagonistic teeth result in acceptable results for clinical parameters and good outcomes for marginal bone level changes and patient satisfaction.
Rapid detection of “Candidatus Phytoplasma mali” by recombinase polymerase amplification assays
Authors: Valasevich Natallia , Schneider Bernd
Published: August 2017

Isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) assays for the specific detection of “Candidatus Phytoplasma mali (Ca. P. mali),” the causal agent of apple proliferation, were developed. The assays amplify a fragment of the imp gene and amplimers were detected either by fluorescence in real‐time mode (TwistAmp®exo assay) using a fluorophore‐labelled probe or by direct visualization employing a lateral flow device (TwistAmp®nfo assay/Milenia®HybriDetect). The RPA assays specifically amplified DNA from “Ca. P. mali” strains, and cross‐reactivity with other phytoplasmas or plant DNA was not observed. The limit of detection was determined with a cloned imp standard, and positive results were obtained down to 10 copies with both RPA assay formats. In comparison with a TaqMan real‐time PCR assay based on the same target gene, the RPA assays were equally sensitive, but results were obtained faster. Simplified nucleic acid extraction procedures from plant tissue with Tris‐ and CTAB‐based buffers revealed that crude Tris–DNA extracts were a suitable source for RPA tests while larger concentrations of CTAB were inhibitory. This is the first report of RPA‐based assays for the detection of “Ca. P. mali”. The assays are suitable for high‐throughput screening of plant material and point‐of‐care diagnostic and can be potentially combined with a simplified DNA extraction procedure.
Frequent wildfires erode tree persistence and alter stand structure and initial composition of a fire‐tolerant sub‐alpine forest
Authors: Fairman Thomas A. , Bennett Lauren T. , Tupper Shauna , Nitschke Craig R.
Published: August 2017

Question

Frequent severe wildfires have the potential to alter the structure and composition of forests in temperate biomes. While temperate forests dominated by resprouting trees are thought to be largely invulnerable to more frequent wildfires, empirical data to support this assumption are lacking. Does frequent fire erode tree persistence by increasing mortality and reducing regeneration, and what are the broader impacts on forest structure and understorey composition?

Location

Sub‐alpine open Eucalyptus pauciflora forests, Australian Alps, Victoria, Australia.

Methods

We examined tree persistence and understorey composition of E. pauciflora open forests that were unburned, burned once, twice or three times by high‐severity wildfires between 2003 and 2013. At each of 20 sites (five per fire frequency class) we assessed extent of top‐kill and mortality of eucalypt clumps, spatial configuration of surviving and dead clumps, densities of new and lignotuberous eucalypt seedlings, and shrub and grass cover.

Results

At least 2 yr after the last wildfire, proportions of top‐killed E. pauciflora stems were significantly higher, and densities of live basal resprouts significantly lower, at sites burned two or three times compared to once burned or unburned sites. Clump death increased to 50% of individuals at sites burned by three short‐interval wildfires, which led to changes in live tree patchiness, as indicated by nearest‐neighbour indices. Increased tree mortality was not offset by seedling recruitment, which was significantly lower at the twice‐ and thrice‐burned sites relative to single‐burn sites – although seedling recruitment was also influenced by topography and coarse woody debris. In addition to changes in the tree layer, the prominence of understorey shrubs was substantially reduced, and the frequency of grasses markedly increased, after two, and particularly three wildfires.

Conclusions

Our study provides strong empirical evidence of ecologically significant change in E. pauciflora forests after short‐interval severe wildfires, namely, erosion of the persistence niche of resprouting trees, and a shift in understorey dominance from shrubs to grasses. Our findings highlight the need to consider the impacts of compounded perturbation on forests under changing climates, including testing assumptions of long‐term persistence of resprouter‐dominated communities.
What Drives Firm Profitability? A Comparison of the US and EU Food Processing Industry
Authors: Gschwandtner Adelina , Hirsch Stefan
Published: August 2017

This paper analyzes persistence and the drivers of profitability in US and EU food processing using GMM estimations. Due to different firm size structures first comparable samples of US and EU food processors are derived using Propensity Score Matching. The GMM results indicate that profit persistence in food processing is lower than in other manufacturing sectors. Firm‐specific drivers of profitability are size and financial risk. Regarding industry characteristics concentration and the growth rate significantly influence profitability. The findings provide insights for the management of US and EU food processing firms aiming to enhance their competitiveness.
Landscape genomics of Colorado potato beetle provides evidence of polygenic adaptation to insecticides
Authors: Crossley Michael S. , Chen Yolanda H. , Groves Russell L. , Schoville Sean D.
Published: August 2017

The ability of insect pests to rapidly and repeatedly adapt to insecticides has long challenged entomologists and evolutionary biologists. Since Crow's seminal paper on insecticide resistance in 1957, new data and insights continue to emerge that are relevant to the old questions about how insecticide resistance evolves: such as whether it is predominantly mono‐ or polygenic, and evolving from standing vs. de novo genetic variation. Many studies support the monogenic hypothesis, and current management recommendations assume single‐ or two‐locus models. But inferences could be improved by integrating data from a broader sample of pest populations and genomes. Here, we generate evidence relevant to these questions by applying a landscape genomics framework to the study of insecticide resistance in a major agricultural pest, Colorado potato beetle,Leptinotarsa decemlineata(Say). Genome–environment association tests using genomic variation from 16 populations spanning gradients of landscape variables associated with insecticide exposure over time revealed 42 strong candidate insecticide resistance genes, with potentially overlapping roles in multiple resistance mechanisms. Measurements of resistance to a widely used insecticide, imidacloprid, among 47L. decemlineatapopulations revealed heterogeneity at a small (2 km) scale and no spatial signature of origin or spread throughout the landscape. Analysis of nucleotide diversity suggested candidate resistance loci have undergone varying degrees of selective sweeps, often maintaining similar levels of nucleotide diversity to neutral loci. This study suggests that many genes are involved in insecticide resistance inL. decemlineataand that resistance likely evolves from both de novo and standing genetic variation.
The Motivational Foundation of Learning Languages Other Than Global English: Theoretical Issues and Research Directions
Authors: DÖRNYEI ZOLTÁN , AL‐HOORIE ALI H.
Published: August 2017

The theoretical paradigms of second language (L2) learning motivation developed over the past 25 years have been largely based on the study of English as a target language, which raises the question as to whether they are equally applicable to the understanding of the motivation to learn languages other than English (LOTEs). It is suggested in this article that current conceptualizations of L2 motivation display certain subtle characteristics that may not do full justice to the understanding of the motivation underlying LOTEs, either by downplaying certain important features or by providing an insufficiently nuanced representation of areas where the motivation to learn English and LOTEs diverges. The discussion addresses five such aspects: (a) the confounding interaction of English‐ and LOTE‐related self‐images, (b) the individualistic focus of the ideal L2 self, (c) the different nature/role of the ought‐to self associated with languages with substantial versus marginal social support, (d) the different nature of goals in the learning of English and LOTEs, and (e) the differing role of unconscious motives in the study of English and LOTEs.
Heritage Passions, Heritage Convictions, and the Rooted L2 Self: Music and Gaelic Language Learning in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
Authors: MACINTYRE PETER D. , BAKER SUSAN C. , SPARLING HEATHER
Published: August 2017

The present research examines the role of music and dance in motivating Gaelic language learning on Cape Breton Island (Canada). The Gaelic language, once thriving in this context, has declined in use but flourishes in both music and dance. This article presents the results of in‐depth interviews (60–90 minutes) with 10 accomplished adult musicians and dancers who described in rich detail connections between traditional music and the Gaelic language. The interview texts were analyzed using Leximancer 4.0, text‐mining software that performs an automatic analysis by deriving, in a grounded fashion, the key concepts in a text. Semantic and relational co‐occurrence information was extracted using artificial intelligence, producing a map of interrelations among concepts. Three interrelated concepts are introduced to describe community‐level motivational processes evident in the interviews: Rooted second language (L2) self, heritage passions, and heritage convictions. The rooted L2 self is defined by connections to place and speakers of the language; heritage passions reflect the development of emotional bonds, core values, and strengths; and heritage convictions capture deep‐seated beliefs, attitudes, and mindsets. Elements of both Gardner's notion of integrative motivation and Dörnyei's L2 self system are evident and are considered within Ushioda's (2009) person‐in‐context relational model, emphasizing the connections among learners and contexts.
Scriabin's Prelude Op. 67 No. 1: Pitch Orthography, Musical Climax and Form
Authors: WU YI‐CHENG DANIEL
Published: August 2017

In tonal music, the way in which pitches are spelled reflects their meaning in various contextual and textural settings such as harmony, melody and voice leading. At the turn of the twentieth century, many composers attempted to progress beyond the confines of traditional tonality; and their works, as generally perceived by most analysts nowadays, treated the twelve chromatic pitches as twelve enharmonically equivalent pitch classes. No matter what musical context is encountered, we perceive F♯ and G♭ syntactically and structurally as the same pitch class, paying little attention to the composer's choice of notation. The present article brings the significance of pitch notation into sharper focus by investigating its crucial role in the structure and form of Scriabin's Prelude Op. 67 No. 1 (1912–13). I will demonstrate how Scriabin utilises orthography to create a concealed musical climax that reinforces the narrative design of the form, helping the analyst to regard notation as a core element when examining the pitch structure in music after 1900.
Irrigated‐tip catheters for radiofrequency ablation of right‐sided accessory pathways in adolescents
Authors: Telishevska Marta , Faelchle Johannes , Buiatti Alessandra , Busch Sonia , Reents Tilko , Bourier Felix , Semmler Verena , Kaess Bernhard , Horndasch Michaela , Kornmayer Marielouise , Kottmaier Marc , Deisenhofer Isabel , Hessling Gabriele
Published: September 2017

Background

Catheter ablation of right‐sided accessory pathways (APs) has lower success and higher recurrence rates compared to left‐sided substrates. Irrigated‐tip catheter (ITC) ablation might offer an advantage in this setting but data about its use in patients below 18 years are scarce. The aim of this study was to compare an ITC approach to conventional catheter ablation.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of all patients <18 years undergoing radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for right‐sided APs from 2004 to 2014 at our institution was performed. Patients either underwent an ITC approach in combination with 3‐D mapping (Group 1; n  =  53) or a conventional non‐ITC approach (Group 2; n  =  52). Study endpoints were acute procedural success, safety, and recurrence rate. A total of 105 mostly adolescent patients (56.2% male; median age 14 years) with 107 right‐sided APs were included.

Results

The prevailing anatomic AP locations were right posteroseptal (44.9%), right anterior/anterolateral (24.3%), and right lateral (13.1%). Acute success (94.3% vs 94.2%) did not differ between the groups. One major complication (pericardial effusion) occurred in the non‐ITC group. Overall, freedom from AP recurrence was 94% at 4 years in the ITC group, and 81% at 4 years in the non‐ITC group (P  =  0.04).

Conclusions

The use of ITCs in combination with 3‐D mapping system for ablation of right‐sided APs in adolescents has a high acute success rate, is safe, and associated with a significantly reduced recurrence rate compared to a non‐ITC/conventional approach. It might be considered as alternative approach in this age group.
Perceptions of U.S. dermatology residency program directors regarding the adequacy of phototherapy training during residency
Authors: Goyal Kavita , Nguyen Michael O. , Reynolds Rachel V. , Mostaghimi Arash , Joyce Cara , Cohen Jeffrey M. , Buzney Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2017

Background/Purpose

Phototherapy utilization has declined over the last 20 years despite its efficacy and cost‐effectiveness. Adequacy of phototherapy training in residency may be a contributing factor. The purpose of this study was to evaluate perceptions of U.S. dermatology residency program directors (PDs) regarding the effectiveness of their programs' phototherapy training and what constitutes adequate phototherapy education.

Methods

A questionnaire was sent to PDs to assess phototherapy training within their program; aspects such as dedicated time, exposure to different modalities, and barriers to resident education were surveyed. We assessed the statistical association between these aspects and the perception by PDs that a program's training was adequate. Statistical testing was reported using Fisher's exact tests.

Results

A total of 42 PDs responded. Residency training in oral psoralen and ultraviolet A therapy (PUVA), home phototherapy, and excimer laser, respectively, is not provided in 19.0%, 31.0%, and 47.6% of programs. 38.1% of programs provide ≤5 hours of phototherapy training over 3 years of training. 59.5% of PDs cited lack of curriculum time as the most common barrier to phototherapy education. 19.0% of PDs reported completely adequate phototherapy training, which was significantly associated with inclusion of faculty‐led didactics, assigned reading, or hands‐on clinical training in the curriculum.

Conclusions

There is a mismatch between the resources devoted to phototherapy education and the need for dedicated training reported by PDs. Limited time is allocated to phototherapy training during dermatology residency, and a large majority of PDs do not feel that the phototherapy training offered is completely adequate.
Transcriptional profiling reveals mechanisms of sexually dimorphic responses of Populus cathayana to potassium deficiency
Authors: Han Qingquan , Song Haifeng , Yang Yanni , Jiang Hao , Zhang Sheng
Published: August 2017

Potassium (K) deficiency causes a series of physiological and metabolic disorders in plants, and dioecious species exhibit different responses based on sex. Our previous morphological and physiological observations indicated that Populus cathayana males were more tolerant to K+ deficiency than females. To continue this work, comparative transcriptome analyses were carried out to investigate sexually differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in this study. The results indicate that 10 weeks of K+ deficiency result in 111 and 181 DEGs in males and females, respectively. These DEGs are mainly involved in photosynthesis, cell wall biosynthesis, secondary metabolism, transport, stress responses, gene expression regulation and protein synthesis and degradation. Comparing between sexes, P. cathayana females showed more changes in response to K+ deficiency than males with regard to photosynthesis, gene expression regulation and posttranslational modification but fewer changes in secondary metabolism, stress responses and redox homeostasis. These results provide evidence that P. cathayana females are more susceptible to K+ deficiency than males. Therefore, there are sex‐related molecular strategies in response to K+ deficiency between sexes.
Wheat flag leaf epicuticular wax morphology and composition in response to moderate drought stress are revealed by SEM, FTIR‐ATR and synchrotron X‐ray spectroscopy
Authors: Willick Ian R. , Lahlali Rachid , Vijayan Perumal , Muir David , Karunakaran Chithra , Tanino Karen K.
Published: August 2017

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the largest cereal crop grown in Western Canada where drought during late vegetative and seed filling stages affects plant development and yield. To identify new physiochemical markers associated with drought tolerance, epidermal characteristics of the flag leaf of two wheat cultivars with contrasting drought tolerance were investigated. The drought resistant ‘Stettler’ had a lower drought susceptibility index, greater harvest index and water‐use efficiency than the susceptible ‘Superb’. Furthermore, flag leaf width, relative water content and leaf roll were significantly greater in Stettler than in Superb at moderate drought stress (MdS). Visible differences in epicuticular wax density on the adaxial flag leaf surfaces and larger bulliform cells were identified in Stettler as opposed to Superb. Mid‐infrared attenuated total internal reflectance spectra revealed that Stettler flag leaves had increased asymmetric and symmetric CH2 but reduced carbonyl esters on its adaxial leaf surface compared to Superb under MdS. X‐ray fluorescence spectra revealed a significant increase in total flag leaf Zn concentrations in Stettler in response to MdS. Such information on the microstructural and chemical features of flag leaf may have potential as markers for drought tolerance and thereby accelerate the selection and release of more drought‐resistant cultivars.
Interaction points in plant stress signaling pathways
Authors: Overmyer Kirk , Vuorinen Katariina , Brosché Mikael
Published: August 2017

Plants live in a world where they are challenged by abiotic and biotic stresses. In response to unfavorable conditions or an acute challenge like a pathogen attack, plants use various signaling pathways that regulate expression of defense genes and other mechanisms to provide resistance or stress adaptation. Identification of the regulatory steps in defense signaling has seen much progress in recent years. Many of the identified signaling pathways show interactions with each other, exemplified by the modulation of the jasmonic acid response by salicylic acid. Accordingly, defense regulation is more appropriately thought of as a web of interactions, rather than linear pathways. Here we describe various regulatory components and how they interact to provide an appropriate defense response. One of the common assays to monitor the output of defense signaling, as well as interaction between signaling pathways, is the measurement of altered gene expression. We illustrate that, while this is a suitable assay to monitor defense regulation, it can also inadvertently provide overstated conclusions about interaction among signaling pathways.
Testing a linear time invariant model for skin conductance responses by intraneural recording and stimulation
Authors: Gerster Samuel , Namer Barbara , Elam Mikael , Bach Dominik R.
Published: September 2017

Skin conductance responses (SCR) are increasingly analyzed with model‐based approaches that assume a linear and time‐invariant (LTI) mapping from sudomotor nerve (SN) activity to observed SCR. These LTI assumptions have previously been validated indirectly, by quantifying how much variance in SCR elicited by sensory stimulation is explained under an LTI model. This approach, however, collapses sources of variability in the nervous and effector organ systems. Here, we directly focus on the SN/SCR mapping by harnessing two invasive methods. In an intraneural recording experiment, we simultaneously track SN activity and SCR. This allows assessing the SN/SCR relationship but possibly suffers from interfering activity of non‐SN sympathetic fibers. In an intraneural stimulation experiment under regional anesthesia, such influences are removed. In this stimulation experiment, about 95% of SCR variance is explained under LTI assumptions when stimulation frequency is below 0.6 Hz. At higher frequencies, nonlinearities occur. In the intraneural recording experiment, explained SCR variance is lower, possibly indicating interference from non‐SN fibers, but higher than in our previous indirect tests. We conclude that LTI systems may not only be a useful approximation but in fact a rather accurate description of biophysical reality in the SN/SCR system, under conditions of low baseline activity and sporadic external stimuli. Intraneural stimulation under regional anesthesia is the most sensitive method to address this question.
Ambient Asbestos Fiber Concentrations and Long‐Term Trends in Pleural Mesothelioma Incidence between Urban and Rural Areas in the United States (1973–2012)
Authors: Glynn Meghan E. , Keeton Kara A. , Gaffney Shannon H. , Sahmel Jennifer
Published: September 2017

Over the past 40 years, measured ambient asbestos concentrations in the United States have been higher in urban versus rural areas. The purpose of this study was to determine whether variations in ambient asbestos concentrations have influenced pleural mesothelioma risk in females (who generally lacked historic occupational asbestos exposure relative to males). Male pleural mesothelioma incidence trends were analyzed to provide perspective for female trends. Annual age‐adjusted incidence rates from 1973 to 2012 were obtained from the SEER 9, 13, and 18 databases for urban and rural locations, and standardized rate ratios were calculated. Female rural rates exceeded urban rates in almost half of the years analyzed, although the increases were not statistically significant, which is in line with expectations if there was no observable increased risk for urban locations. In contrast, male urban rates were elevated over rural rates for nearly all years examined and were statistically significantly elevated for 22 of the 40 years. Trend analyses demonstrated that trends for females remained relatively constant over time, whereas male urban and rural incidence increased into the 1980s and 1990s, followed by a decrease/leveling off. Annual female urban and rural incidence rates remained approximately five‐ to six‐fold lower than male urban and rural incidence rates on average, consistent with the comparatively increased historical occupational asbestos exposure for males. The results suggest that differences in ambient asbestos concentrations, which have been reported to be 10‐fold or greater across regions in the United States, have not influenced the risk of pleural mesothelioma.
Competing Policy Windows in Biotechnology: The FDA, the 21st Century Cures Act, and Laboratory‐Developed Tests
Authors: Myers Nathan , Steding Catherine E. , Mikolaj Peter
Published: August 2017

In 2014, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposed taking a more active role in the regulation of laboratory‐developed tests (LDTs). Meanwhile, the U.S. House of Representatives embarked upon the 21st Century Cures initiative to develop legislation to expedite the development of new biotechnology innovations. During that initiative and in the public comments responding to the draft guidance, there was significant disagreement as to whether the increased FDA regulation of LDTs was beneficial or detrimental to biotechnology. Both the FDA guidance document and the 21st Century Cures Act came about due to the opening of a window of opportunity created by the convergence of circumstances. The question is whether the windows of opportunity are competing and how to resolve this competition. This study will investigate these questions through a qualitative case study. It will also provide recommendations for resolving policy disputes involving wicked problems like biotechnology policy.
Efficient Robust Estimation for Linear Models with Missing Response at Random
Authors: Tang Man‐Lai , Tang Nian‐Sheng , Zhao Pu‐Ying , Zhu Hongtu
Published: August 2017

Coefficient estimation in linear regression models with missing data is routinely carried out in the mean regression framework. However, the mean regression theory breaks down if the error variance is infinite. In addition, correct specification of the likelihood function for existing imputation approach is often challenging in practice, especially for skewed data. In this paper, we develop a novel composite quantile regression and a weighted quantile average estimation procedure for parameter estimation in linear regression models when some responses are missing at random. Instead of imputing the missing response by randomly drawing from its conditional distribution, we propose to impute both missing and observed responses by their estimated conditional quantiles given the observed data and to use the parametrically estimated propensity scores to weigh check functions that define a regression parameter. Both estimation procedures are resistant to heavy‐tailed errors or outliers in the response and can achieve nice robustness and efficiency. Moreover, we propose adaptive penalization methods to simultaneously select significant variables and estimate unknown parameters. Asymptotic properties of the proposed estimators are carefully investigated. An efficient algorithm is developed for fast implementation of the proposed methodologies. We also discuss a model selection criterion, which is based on an ICQ‐type statistic, to select the penalty parameters. The performance of the proposed methods is illustrated via simulated and real data sets.
Specters of Sovereignty: Comments on Andrew Dilts' “Toward Abolitionist Genealogy”
Authors: Kimoto B. Tamsin
Published: August 2017

This paper is a slightly expanded and altered version of comments delivered in response to a paper by Andrew Dilts at the 35th Annual Spindel Conference in Memphis, TN. I focus on the elision of the state in Dilts' paper in order to demonstrate the need for a genealogy that takes seriously the role of sovereignty in constructing the present of trans femmes and trans women of color.
The Rainbow Effect: Media Freedom, Internet Access, and Gay Rights
Authors: Carlo‐Gonzalez Celin , McKallagat Christopher , Whitten‐Woodring Jenifer
Published: August 2017

Objectives

What accounts for the variation in the status of gay rights across countries? We consider the effects of media freedom and Internet access and hypothesize that it is the combination of the two that matters for promoting gay rights.

Methods

Using cross‐national time‐series data drawn from a variety of sources, we test our hypotheses using a measure of lesbian, gay, and bisexual legal equality.

Results

Our results indicate that the effects of media freedom and Internet access on gay rights are each conditional on the other. It is the interaction of media freedom and Internet access that has a statistically significant and positive effect on gay rights; without media freedom, Internet access has no significant effect and vice versa.

Conclusion

All else being equal, we observe greater respect for gay rights in those countries featuring a combination of both free media and higher rates of Internet access.
Monitoring near‐miss events in a hospital blood bank
Authors: Karim F. , Ali M. , Rashid A. , Shaikh M. S. , Karim M. , Moiz B.
Published: August 2017

Background and Objective

Monitoring near‐miss events is a part of hemovigilance which helps to identify the causes and prevent them from happening again. The aim was to identify the near‐miss events in a tertiary care hospital and interventions in reducing them.

Methods

The study was carried out at the section of Hematology and Transfusion medicine, The Aga Khan University Hospital. Two‐year data of near‐miss events were analysed from January 2013 to December 2014. This was followed by intervention to minimize the errors. Following intervention, rate of wrong blood in tube (WBIT) was monitored for 1 year (January 2016–December 2016).

Results

During the study period, a total of 75 157 blood samples were received in blood bank with the request for various blood products and 123 360 blood products were released. The calculated rate of near‐miss events was 0·35 per 1000 blood products issued. WBIT was the most common near‐miss event reported with a rate of 1 in 1789. Monitoring near‐miss events prompted us to intervene to minimize WBIT. Interventions included educational workshops and lectures for nurses and medical doctors, initiation of bedside ABO grouping, making a dedicated phlebotomy station for emergency room, starting online computer physician order entry system for raising blood requests and circulating educational flyers. Following intervention, the rate of WBIT dropped to 1 in 2457 blood samples.

Conclusion

Monitoring of near‐miss events helped us in identifying the processes that can be improved and taking appropriate measures to enhance transfusion safety.
Pleistocene extinctions and recent expansions in an anguid lizard of the genus Pseudopus
Authors: Jandzik David , Jablonski Daniel , Zinenko Oleksandr , Kukushkin Oleg V. , Moravec Jiří , Gvoždík Václav
Published: August 2017

Climatic changes during the Pleistocene played an instrumental role in the shaping recent distribution and diversity of the Western Palearctic biota. Range oscillations often lead to allopatric differentiation followed by the establishment of secondary contact zones. As a result, many species are composed of complex networks of phylogenetic lineages with different histories. Pseudopus apodus is the only surviving member of an ancient genus of Western Palearctic anguid lizards (Anguidae) distributed from the Balkans through Anatolia and Caucasus to central Asia. Here, we used mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequences to reconstruct the evolutionary history of the species in phylogeographic and demographic frameworks. Our analyses revealed three main phylogenetic lineages that diverged during or shortly before the Pleistocene. Two of them more or less correspond to the known subspecies, and their low genetic variability suggests relatively recent dispersal and colonization of vast parts of the range. The third, southern, lineage is more geographically restricted and diversified than the other two. This pattern shows that the Quaternary climatic oscillations presumably caused repeated large‐scale population extinctions of the species, depleting most of its diversity. Only a few refugia located in Anatolia, Levant, and Transcaucasia served as sources for subsequent recolonization to the areas of the recent distribution. This is in contrast to many other Western Palearctic reptiles that survived unfavorable climatic conditions in numerous local refugia and sanctuaries, which resulted in more complex phylogenetic structure.