bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectrophotometric measurement of the pH of soil extracts using a multiple indicator dye mixture
Authors: Bargrizan S. , Smernik R. J. , Mosley L. M.
Published: October 2018

This paper describes the development of a spectrophotometric method with an expanded pH range of 3–9 that uses a mixed indicator solution (equimolar bromophenol blue, bromocresol purple, m‐cresol purple and thymol blue). The method uses measurements of absorbance of the dye mixture at two wavelengths (434 and 585 nm), chosen to represent the average acid and base peak maxima of the individual dyes within the mixture. The ratio of absorbance at these two wavelengths was used to calculate pH based on measured dye properties (pKa, molar absorptivity) and fundamental equations derived from Beer's law. The mixed dye spectrophotometric pH measurement was tested using certified pH buffers (pH (NBS/NIST) 4.00, 6.86, 9.18) and was found to be accurate to within ± 0–0.06 pH units. Measurements made with the mixed dye showed good correlation against conventional soil pH measurement using a glass electrode (r = 0.99), and also an alkalinity titration (r = 0.99) through the pH range 3–9. The average standard deviation was 0.07 for spectrophotometric soil pH measurement (n = 30) using the dye mixture. The mixed dye technique expands the working range of spectrophotometric pH measurement methods in soils and other applications.

Highlights

We developed a novel spectrophotometric method for measuring soil pH using a mixed indicator dye.

The method greatly extends the working soil pH range of previous single indicator dye approaches.

The results were well correlated with glass electrode measurements between pH 3 and 9.

The method provides new opportunities to study soil chemical processes affected by pH.
Radiographic assessment of the ratio of the hoof wall distal phalanx distance to palmar length of the distal phalanx in 415 front feet of 279 horses
Authors: Mullard J. , Ireland J. , Dyson S.
Published: October 2018

Determination of the ratio of the hoof distal phalanx distance (HDPD) to the length of the palmar aspect of the distal phalanx (HDPDratio) may be helpful for the diagnosis of laminitis. Estimates for normal values have varied (≤0.25 to ≤0.30) and been based on small numbers of horses. No study has compared external characteristics of the hoof wall andHDPDratio. The objective was to document theHDPDratio in a large number of horses/ponies of various breeds; and to assess relationships between signalment and hoof level factors and theHDPDratio and height:bodyweight ratio. This retrospective study included 415 feet from 279 horses with foot pain and no known history of laminitis, or clinical signs of acute laminitis. Lateromedial radiographs were assessed; theHDPDand palmar length of the distal phalanx were measured digitally and the ratio was calculated. The presence of divergent growth rings was determined from lateromedial photographs. Factors associated withHDPDratio were assessed using linear mixed effects models, built using a step‐wise backward elimination procedure with horse included as a random effect, and the final model was selected based on Akaike information criterion. The meanHDPDratio was 0.25 ± 0.03 (median = 0.25;IQR0.23–0.26; range 0.19–0.36). 42.2% of feet had aHDPDratio >0.25. There was no significant difference in medianHDPDratio for feet with divergent growth rings compared with those without (P = 0.16). In the final mixed effects model,HDPDratio decreased with increasing age (coefficient −0.0014; P = 0.008) and with increasing height:bodyweight ratio (coefficient −0.13; P = 0.02) and was greater in Cob breeds (coefficient 0.02; P = 0.001) compared with Warmbloods. However, this model only explained approximately 8.4% ofHDPDratio variability.

A limitation of the study was the absence of a control nonlame group. The conclusion of the study was that variation in theHDPDratio was not adequately explained by the factors investigated and large values may reflect lamellar pathology.
The greenhouse gas cost of agricultural intensification with groundwater irrigation in a Midwest U.S. row cropping system
Authors: McGill Bonnie M. , Hamilton Stephen K. , Millar Neville , Robertson G. Philip
Published: October 2018

Groundwater irrigation of cropland is expanding worldwide with poorly known implications for climate change. This study compares experimental measurements of the net global warming impact of a rainfed versus a groundwater‐irrigated corn (maize)–soybean–wheat, no‐till cropping system in the Midwest US, the region that produces the majority of U.S. corn and soybean. Irrigation significantly increased soil organic carbon (C) storage in the upper 25 cm, but not by enough to make up for the CO2‐equivalent (CO2e) costs of fossil fuel power, soil emissions of nitrous oxide (N2O), and degassing of supersaturated CO2 and N2O from the groundwater. A rainfed reference system had a net mitigating effect of −13.9 (±31) g CO2e m−2 year−1, but with irrigation at an average rate for the region, the irrigated system contributed to global warming with net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of 27.1 (±32) g CO2e m−2 year−1. Compared to the rainfed system, the irrigated system had 45% more GHG emissions and 7% more C sequestration. The irrigation‐associated increase in soil N2O and fossil fuel emissions contributed 18% and 9%, respectively, to the system's total emissions in an average irrigation year. Groundwater degassing of CO2 and N2O are missing components of previous assessments of the GHG cost of groundwater irrigation; together they were 4% of the irrigated system's total emissions. The irrigated system's net impact normalized by crop yield (GHG intensity) was +0.04 (±0.006) kg CO2e kg−1 yield, close to that of the rainfed system, which was −0.03 (±0.002) kg CO2e kg−1 yield. Thus, the increased crop yield resulting from irrigation can ameliorate overall GHG emissions if intensification by irrigation prevents land conversion emissions elsewhere, although the expansion of irrigation risks depletion of local water resources.
Delayed herbivory by migratory geese increases summer‐long CO2 uptake in coastal western Alaska
Authors: Leffler A. Joshua , Beard Karen H. , Kelsey Katharine C. , Choi Ryan T. , Schmutz Joel A. , Welker Jeffrey M.
Published: October 2018

The advancement of spring and the differential ability of organisms to respond to changes in plant phenology may lead to “phenological mismatches” as a result of climate change. One potential for considerable mismatch is between migratory birds and food availability in northern breeding ranges, and these mismatches may have consequences for ecosystem function. We conducted a three‐year experiment to examine the consequences for CO2 exchange of advanced spring green‐up and altered timing of grazing by migratory Pacific black brant in a coastal wetland in western Alaska. Experimental treatments represent the variation in green‐up and timing of peak grazing intensity that currently exists in the system. Delayed grazing resulted in greater net ecosystem exchange (NEE) and gross primary productivity (GPP), while early grazing reduced CO2 uptake with the potential of causing net ecosystem carbon (C) loss in late spring and early summer. Conversely, advancing the growing season only influenced ecosystem respiration (ER), resulting in a small increase in ER with no concomitant impact on GPP or NEE. The experimental treatment that represents the most likely future, with green‐up advancing more rapidly than arrival of migratory geese, results in NEE changing by 1.2 µmol m−2 s−1 toward a greater CO2 sink in spring and summer. Increased sink strength, however, may be mitigated by early arrival of migratory geese, which would reduce CO2 uptake. Importantly, while the direct effect of climate warming on phenology of green‐up has a minimal influence on NEE, the indirect effect of climate warming manifest through changes in the timing of peak grazing can have a significant impact on C balance in northern coastal wetlands. Furthermore, processes influencing the timing of goose migration in the winter range can significantly influence ecosystem function in summer habitats.
Can urban rail transit systems alleviate air pollution? Empirical evidence from Beijing
Authors: Guo Shihong , Chen Liqiang
Published: October 2018

Improving air quality across mainland China is an urgent policy challenge, while rapidly increasing use of vehicles poses a great menace to the urban population and air quality. Public transportation has received increasing attention as emissions‐ friendly transport options, but whether the urban rail transit system has a significant effect on curbing air pollution has been unclear, and there is a lack of explicit case studies in mainland China. Therefore, the effects of the opening of the Beijing Metro on air pollutants emissions in Beijing were quantified through a regression discontinuity design. Beijing has seen a brisk growth in its rail transit infrastructure and a downward trend of air pollution index since 2005. The regression results show that the operation of the rail transit system was observed to have a significant effect on reducing most of the air pollutants concentrations (PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NO2, and CO) but had little effect on ozone pollution. The results obtained were highly robust across a variety of tests. This study contributes to empirical evidence on the air pollutants associated with the opening of rail transit and traffic‐related pollution control policy making in Beijing.
Image interplay between events and destinations
Authors: Dragin‐Jensen Christian , Kwiatkowski Grzegorz
Published: October 2018

Events have become increasingly important in acting as image builders for their host destinations (i.e., cities, regions). Equivalently, the image of a destination can have an impact on event perceptions, resulting in careful considerations for event managers and destination stakeholders to make when pairing an event with a host destination. As a contribution to event and destination image impact research, this paper systematically conducts a review process and identifies peer‐reviewed articles that fall within its established research criteria, thereby synthesizing and gaining new perspectives, as well as presenting new implications by conjoining aspects of destination and event image research. To conduct the review process Cooper's (1988,Knowledge in Society) taxonomy of literature reviews was used. Events play a positive role in impacting a destination's image, whether by increasing awareness and familiarity, reducing negative images, providing believable associations and authenticity as well as community support, or ensuring the host gains positive associations from the event. Destination impacts on events’ images were a far less researched area and therefore revealed a very sparse amount of results. The review for the first time focuses on image implications for both events and host destinations, as opposed to just image impacts from an event to a destination.
Grazing intensity determines pasture spatial heterogeneity and productivity in an integrated crop‐livestock system
Authors: Nunes Pedro Arthur de Albuquerque , Bredemeier Christian , Bremm Carolina , Caetano Luis Augusto Martins , de Almeida Gleice Menezes , de Souza Filho William , Anghinoni Ibanor , Carvalho Paulo César de Faccio
Published: October 2018

Spatial heterogeneity is a property of natural ecosystems. Integrated crop‐livestock systems (ICLS) aim to mimic natural ecosystem functions as pillars of sustainable intensification, and grazing is a process that potentially affects spatial heterogeneity. Then, we investigated the effect of different grazing intensities, defined according to a range of sward heights (intensive grazing, 10 cm; moderate grazing, 20 cm; moderate‐light grazing, 30 cm; light grazing, 40 cm; and ungrazed), on the spatial heterogeneity and biomass productivity of mixed Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) and black oat (Avena strigosa Schreb.) pastures. The mixture was grazed by steers under continuous variable stocking, using put‐and‐take animals to maintain targeted sward heights. The pasture was in rotation with soybean in an integrated crop‐livestock system for 15 years. Data concerns pasture phase on the 15th rotation cycle. Cattle grazing at moderate to light intensities increased pasture spatial heterogeneity and total aboveground primary productivity, while intensive grazing led to homogeneous overgrazed canopies with frequent bare soil patches. Pre‐grazing sward structure suggests that the summer crop rotation buffers the contrasts created by grazing at different intensities. This study suggests that moderate to light grazing intensities increase pasture productive efficiency and create more heterogeneous canopies in ICLS, while intensive grazing should be avoided.
Investigating the relationship between the HJHS and HAL in routine clinical practice: A retrospective review
Authors: McLaughlin Paul , Morris Richard , Chowdary Pratima
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment for monitoring joint health in haemophilia includes both physical assessment with Haemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS) and assessment of self‐reported function by Haemophilia Activities List (HAL).

Methods

Correlation between physical assessment and joint function was undertaken between HJHS and HAL in patients with SHA and SHB who had both assessments at the same visit over a one‐year period.

Results

Data from 120 patients (96‐SHA/24 = SHB) with a median age 33 years (range 19‐73) were included. Median total HJHS was 19, increasing with age: 18‐30 years—7, 31‐50 years—25 and 51‐73 years—44. Similarly, median total HAL score was 80 with decreased function associated with increasing age: 18‐30 years—90.4, 31‐59 years—71.7, 51‐73 years—49.5. Median Total HJHS and HAL demonstrated strong correlation (rs = 0.66, P < 0.01). Moderate‐to‐strong correlations were seen across the entire age group between the HJHS LL and UL subtotals and corresponding limb HAL domains. Within age groups, correlations were less significant particularly for the upper UL domains in HAL and the UL HJHS score. The wide range of ROM in joints categorized as markedly affected (ie, ROM loss score = 3) highlights the potential ceiling effect of this domain score and its use in chronically damaged joints.

Conclusion

HJHS and HAL showed moderate‐to‐strong correlation with discrepancy in some individual patients. Prospective studies are required to better understand the clinical utility of both especially in severe joint disease where HAL may have a potential advantage.
Choosing a dialyzer: What clinicians need to know
Authors: Haroon Sabrina , Davenport Andrew
Published: October 2018

The objectives of hemodialysis have moved from the diffusive clearance of small molecular weight uremic toxins and achieving dialyzer urea adequacy targets to emphasis on improving clinical outcomes in end stage renal failure patients by increasing larger sized uremic toxin clearance. Clinical emphasis in the last few decades has focused on increasing middle molecule weight toxin clearance by hemodiafiltration. Although long‐term data is still lacking, short‐term outcomes appear promising. Advancements in nanotechnology have now introduction a new generation of medium cut‐off membrane dialyzers which allow diffusive clearance of similar middle molecular weight uremia toxin clearance as hemodiafiltration, without increased albumin losses. As these dialyzers have only recently been introduced into clinical practice, no long‐term outcomes are available to determine the relative benefits or advantages of this approach. As dialyzers are now designed to maximize diffusive or convective clearance, or provide a combination, then clinicians can now choose dialyzers tailored to the individual patient needs depending on clinical circumstances. We review the key important features in choosing a dialyzer for patients with end stage renal failure and acute kidney injury.
Do performance‐based research funding systems affect research production and impact?
Authors: Checchi Daniele , Malgarini Marco , Sarlo Scipione
Published: October 2018

We study the potential impact of introducing performance‐based funding systems (PBFS) on national research systems, using information on the number of publications and their scientific impact (citations or publications in top‐ranked journals) for 31 countries over the period 1996–2016. The analysis is performed both at the aggregate level and looking separately at each of the six main scientific areas identified according to the Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) classification. On average, PBFS are found to increase the number of publications, though the effect is only temporary and fades after a few years. Looking at the scientific impact, PBFS are found to have a negligible effect on excellence as measured by the share of articles published in the top journals, irrespective of the type of assessment adopted. On the contrary, PBFS have some influence on average research quality, as measured by the number of citations per paper normalised with respect to the field.
An explorative study of the consequences of university autonomy in Finland and Brazil
Authors: Kohtamäki Vuokko , Balbachevsky Elizabeth
Published: October 2018

This paper contributes to the analysis of impacts a university might experience with an increased degree of autonomy. Most autonomy studies have empirically considered the legal, political and financial relationships between state authorities and universities in different national contexts. Nevertheless, most of these studies focus on the changes experienced by European universities with increased autonomy. This paper argues that the focus on the Western European perspective limits the conclusions drawn from the relatively homogeneous policy context that frames the perspectives of university autonomy under investigation. This paper will advance research on autonomy and the understanding of changes produced by expanded autonomy in two concrete cases that occurred in contrasting policy frameworks: the University of Tampere, Finland, and the University of São Paulo, Brazil.
FINANCIAL RISK AND UNEMPLOYMENT
Authors: Eckstein Zvi , Setty Ofer , Weiss David
Published: October 2018

There is a strong correlation between corporate interest rates, their spreads relative to Treasuries, and the unemployment rate. We model how corporate interest rates affect equilibrium unemployment and vacancies, in a Diamond–Mortesen–Pissarides search and matching model. Our simple model permits the exploration of U.S. business cycle statistics through the lens of financial shocks. We calibrate the model using U.S. data without targeting business cycle statistics. Volatility in the corporate interest rate can explain a quantitatively meaningful portion of the labor market. Data on corporate firms support the hypothesis that firms facing more volatile financial conditions have more volatile employment.
A STRUCTURAL MODEL OF ELECTORAL ACCOUNTABILITY
Authors: Aruoba S. Borağan , Drazen Allan , Vlaicu Razvan
Published: October 2018

This article proposes a structural approach to measuring the effects of electoral accountability. We estimate a political agency model with imperfect information in order to identify and quantify discipline and selection effects, using data on U.S. governors. We find that the possibility of reelection provides a significant incentive for incumbents to exert effort, that is, a disciplining effect. We also find a positive but weaker selection effect. According to our model, the widely used two‐term regime improves voter welfare by 4.2% compared to a one‐term regime, and better voter information about the effort of the governors would further increase voter welfare by up to 0.5%.
Hot air drying of tea flowers: effect of experimental temperatures on drying kinetics, bioactive compounds and quality attributes
Authors: Shi Linzuo , Gu Yingjie , Wu Dan , Wu Xiaoqing , Grierson Donald , Tu Youying , Wu Yuanyuan
Published: October 2018

The drying process is important for the quality and value of tea flower products. In the present work, the effects of different hot air drying (HAD) temperatures from 60 to 120 °C on drying kinetics, bioactive compounds (catechins, flavonol glycosides and triterpenoid saponins) and quality attributes (volatile compounds, colours and antioxidant properties) of tea flowers were systematically evaluated. The results showed that higher drying temperature resulted in a shorter drying time but with greater loss of bioactive compounds and quality attributes. Flowers subjected to HAD at 60 °C showed the highest bioactive contents and quality attributes of all HAD samples and the quality of HAD 60 °C samples were close to that of freeze‐dried samples. Taking account of the production efficiency and energy consumption, the tea flowers dried at 60 °C for 180 min was preferred. These findings provide a guide for the processing of tea flowers with the aim of improving the overall quality of the product.
Spatial and temporal coordination of antiviral responses by group 1 ILCs
Authors: Adams Nicholas M. , Sun Joseph C.
Published: October 2018

Group 1 innate lymphocytes consist of a phenotypically, spatially, and functionally heterogeneous population of NK cells and ILC1s that are engaged during pathogen invasion. We are only beginning to understand the context‐dependent roles that different subsets of group 1 innate lymphocytes play during homeostatic perturbations. With a focus on viral infection, this review highlights the organization and regulation of spatially and temporally distinct waves of NK cell and ILC1 responses that collectively serve to achieve optimal viral control.
Promise postponed: republican values, social exclusion, and the Frenchbanlieue
Authors: Epstein Beth S.
Published: October 2018

The ongoing crisis of the disadvantaged French outer‐city is portrayed in France as both the consequence and cause of the breakdown of an engaged and participatory collective life, and is increasingly viewed as the result of rising ethnic tensions and of the failure of French republican values to take hold. As these explanations gain ground, they move consideration away from the socio‐economic transformations that have so durably impacted conditions in these outer‐city areas. De‐industrialisation and the shrinking of the welfare state have greatly diminished the potential for social mobility in these districts, hollowing out in the process the potential of the French republican project to manage social inequalities. Through a consideration of these discourses and the way they have shifted since the 1990s, it is argued that the rising enactment of ethnic tension in thebanlieueneeds to be seen as an expression of this contradiction, of the modernist hopes and subsequent disappointments that these districts have incarnated, and of the failure of the state to sustain these areas during a period of prolonged economic restructuring.
The impact of goal progress and individual differences on self‐regulation in training
Authors: Donovan John J. , Lorenzet Steven J. , Dwight Stephen A. , Schneider Dan
Published: October 2018

The present study examined how individuals in an organizational training program regulated both their performance goals and effort in response to goal–performance discrepancies (GPDs), as well as the impact of individual differences (goal orientation) on these processes. Four hundred and sixty‐two employees participating in a high‐fidelity training simulation for a pharmaceutical sales position were observed over the course of 10 days to examine how they altered both their goals and individual effort in response to performance feedback they received from the organization. Consistent with past research conducted outside of the workplace, the results indicated that both goal revision and effort expenditure were significantly related to the GPDs experienced by individuals such that individuals receiving feedback that they were performing below their goal were likely to both set less challenging future goals and exert more effort. Results also suggested that this relationship was moderated by the employee's learning goal orientation (LGO) and performance‐avoid goal orientation. Individuals with a strong LGO were more likely to address GPDs by increasing effort, whereas those with a strong performance‐avoid orientation tended to utilize goal revision to address their GPDs. Theoretical and applied implications of these findings and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Development, behaviour and autism in individuals with SMC1A variants
Authors: Mulder Paul A. , Huisman Sylvia , Landlust Annemiek M. , Moss Jo ,   SMC1A Consortium, Piening Sigrid , Hennekam Raoul C. , van Balkom Ingrid D.C.
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Development and behaviour in Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS), including autism characteristics, have been described infrequently stratified to genetic cause and only a few studies have considered behavioural characteristics in relation to developmental level. Here, we describe the behavioural phenotype in individuals with CdLS with SMC1A variants.

Methods

We performed an international, interdisciplinary study on 51 individuals with SMC1A variants. Results of questionnaire studies are compared to those in individuals with Down Syndrome and with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Results on cognition and self‐injurious behaviour (SIB) are compared to those in individuals with CdLS caused by NIPBL variants. For Dutch participants with SMC1A variants we performed direct in‐person assessments of cognition, autism, and added an interview and questionnaire on adaptive behaviour and sensory processing.

Results

Individuals with SMC1A variants show a higher cognitive level and less SIB than individuals with NIPBL variants. Individuals with SMC1A variants without classic CdLS phenotype but with a Rett‐like phenotype show more severe intellectual disability and more SIB compared to those with a CdLS phenotype. Autism is less present if outcomes in direct in‐person assessments are evaluated taking developmental level into account compared to results based on a questionnaire.

Conclusions

Behaviour in individuals with CdLS should be evaluated taking genetic cause into account. Detailed interdisciplinary approaches are of clinical importance to inform tailored care and may eventually improve quality of life of patients and families.
Developmental trajectories of adaptive behavior in autism spectrum disorder: a high‐risk sibling cohort
Authors: Sacrey Lori‐Ann R. , Zwaigenbaum Lonnie , Bryson Susan , Brian Jessica , Smith Isabel M. , Raza Sarah , Roberts Wendy , Szatmari Peter , Vaillancourt Tracy , Roncadin Caroline , Garon Nancy
Published: October 2018

Background

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience impairments in adaptive behavior.

Methods

Developmental trajectories of adaptive behavior in ASD were examined in children from high‐risk (siblings of children diagnosed with ASD, n = 403) and low‐risk (no family history of ASD, n = 163) families. Children were assessed prospectively at 12, 18, 24, and 36 months of age using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales and underwent a blind independent diagnostic assessment for ASD at 36 months of age.

Results

The semi‐parametric group‐based modeling approach using standard scores on the Adaptive Behavior Composite revealed three distinct developmental trajectories: (a) Group 1 (21.2% of sample) showed average performance at 12 months and a declining trajectory; (b) Group 2 (52.8% of the sample) showed average performance at 12 months with a slightly declining trajectory; and (c) Group 3 (26.0% of the sample) showed a higher level of adaptive behavior at 12 months and a stable trajectory. The Mullen Scales of Early Learning Early Learning Composite and the Autism Observation Scale for Infants total score at 6 and 12 months predicted trajectory membership.

Conclusions

The results emphasize heterogeneous development associated with ASD and the need for interventions tailored to individual presentations.
Histology and ultrastructure of hepatic nodular alterations in Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)
Authors: Lukhwareni Refilwe , van Dyk Cobus
Published: October 2018

This study aimed to assess the macroscopic appearance, histology and ultrastructure of liver nodular alterations in sharptooth catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) from a hyper‐eutrophic freshwater impoundment. The livers of 25 fish were sampled for microscopy analyses, otoliths were collected for age estimation, and the hepatosomatic index (HSI) was calculated. The light microscopic analysis of the nodular tissue revealed hepatocellular and nuclear pleomorphism, pyknotic nuclei, variation in cytoplasmic appearance and focal areas of cellular alterations (FCAs). An increase in the size and number of melano‐macrophage centres, intracellular deposits, steatosis and giant cells was also identified. The ultrastructural alterations identified included cell membrane disruption, irregular shaped nuclei with augmentation of the nucleolus and deformed nuclear envelopes. In addition, we found dilation, proliferation, fragmentation and vesiculation of the cisternae of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER). Furthermore, there was an increase in degenerative mitochondria (transparent matrix), swelling of mitochondria and proliferation of both peroxisomes and lysosomes. The histological and ultrastructural alterations identified did not explain the variation in macroscopic colour of the nodules. We did not find a strong positive correlation between age and HSI; however, the oldest fish (18 years) did present the most nodules.
Physicochemical properties and stability of sucrose/glucose agglomerates obtained by cocrystallization
Authors: López‐Córdoba Alex , Navarro Alba
Published: October 2018

Glucose is used as ingredient in a wide variety of food and pharmaceutical products such as sport drinks, syrups, and tablets, among others. However, this monosaccharide can react easily with several substances (e.g., amino acids, peptides, and proteins) causing brown coloration and decomposition. In the current work, the cocrystallization of glucose with sucrose is presented as a useful strategy to enhance the physicochemical properties and stability of glucose. The sucrose/glucose agglomerates showed low water content (0.1–1.5 wt %) and water activity (0.4–0.7). Besides, all products showed values of dynamic angle of repose between 40° and 45°, which are characteristics of free‐flowing powders. The sucrose/glucose agglomerates were blended with sodium bicarbonate (5:1 wt/wt) and the resulting mixtures were analyzed by differential scanning calorimetry before and after 12 days of storage at 75% RH and 20 °C. The thermal parameters were maintained almost unaltered for the formulations containing cocrystallized products.

Practical applications

Glucose constitutes one of the most used ingredients in food and pharmaceutical industries as a sweetener, cryoprotectant, and excipient, among others. However, this sugar tends to uptake water from the surrounding environment affecting its handling properties. In the current work, the cocrystallization process (an emerging encapsulation method) is presented as a useful way of enhancing the physical properties of glucose. Through the encapsulation of glucose by cocrystallization it was possible to improve the handling and technological properties of this sugar (e.g., flowability and stability). In addition, the interaction of glucose with sodium bicarbonate (a model of food ingredient) was prevented. These results could be potentially applied in both food and pharmaceutical industries.
Study on pesticide residues classification of lettuce leaves based on polarization spectroscopy
Authors: Xin Zhou , Jun Sun , Bing Lu , Xiaohong Wu , Chunxia Dai , Ning Yang
Published: October 2018

In order to effectively implement the rapid and nondestructive testing of pesticide residues in lettuce leaves, polarization spectral detection technology was used in this article. There were 90 pieces of lettuce leaves from five different groups, as well as a total of 450 samples of lettuce were used to collect polarization spectral information. CARS, IRIV, and SPA were used to obtain optimal wavelengths. BP neural network, KNN, and SVM were used to establish classification models. The results showed that the significance of these parameters from primary factor to secondary factor were incident zenith angle A, detector polarization angle D, detecting zenith angle B, and sample stage azimuth E, respectively. Besides, optimal level of A, B, D, and E were 60°, 45°, 30°, and 270°, respectively. Furthermore, the best classification model different kinds of pesticide residues in lettuce leaves was CARS‐SVM model, with calibration identification rate of 100%, prediction identification rate of 97.78%. It confirms that polarization spectral detection technology is a feasible and effective method for classifying different pesticide residues in lettuce leaves.

Practical applications

It is of great significance to understand the effects of pesticide residues on the biological structure and to reveal new biological functions and mechanisms of action. In order to effectively implement the rapid and nondestructive testing of pesticide residues in lettuce leaves, polarization spectral detection technology was used in this article. In addition, the order and superior level of polarization spectral factor were obtained through the calculation of the range using orthogonal test. It confirms that the polarization spectra is a feasible and effective method for discriminating different pesticide residues in lettuce leaves.
Logit Price Dynamics
Authors: COSTAIN JAMES , NAKOV ANTON
Published: October 2018

We model retail price stickiness as the result of costly, error‐prone decision making. Under our assumed cost function for the precision of choice, the timing of price adjustments and the prices firms set are both logit random variables. Errors in the prices firms set help explain micro facts related to the size of price changes, the behavior of adjustment hazards, and the variability of prices and costs. Errors in adjustment timing increase the real effects of monetary shocks, by reducing the “selection effect.” Allowing for both types of errors also helps explain how trend inflation affects price adjustment.
Methamphetamine decreases K+ channel function in human fetal astrocytes by activating the trace amine‐associated receptor type‐1
Authors: Dave Sonya , Chen Lihua , Yu Chunjiang , Seaton Melanie , Khodr Christina E. , Al‐Harthi Lena , Hu Xiu‐Ti
Published: October 2018

Methamphetamine (Meth) is a potent and commonly abused psychostimulant. Meth alters neuron and astrocyte activity; yet the underlying mechanism(s) is not fully understood. Here we assessed the impact of acute Meth on human fetal astrocytes (HFAs) using whole‐cell patch‐clamping. We found that HFAs displayed a large voltage‐gated K+ efflux (IKv) through Kv/Kv‐like channels during membrane depolarization, and a smaller K+ influx (Ikir) via inward‐rectifying Kir/Kir‐like channels during membrane hyperpolarization. Meth at a ‘recreational’ (20 μM) or toxic/fatal (100 μM) concentration depolarized resting membrane potential (RMP) and suppressed IKv/Kv‐like. These changes were associated with a decreased time constant (Ƭ), and mimicked by blocking the two‐pore domain K+ (K2P)/K2P‐like and Kv/Kv‐like channels, respectively. Meth also diminished IKir/Kir‐like, but only at toxic/fatal levels. Given that Meth is a potent agonist for the trace amine‐associated receptor type‐1 (TAAR1), and TAAR1‐coupled cAMP/cAMP‐activated protein kinase (PKA) cascade, we further evaluated whether the Meth impact on K+ efflux was mediated by this pathway. We found that antagonizing TAAR1 with N‐(3‐Ethoxyphenyl)‐4‐(1‐pyrrolidinyl)‐3‐(trifluoromethyl)benzamide (EPPTB) reversed Meth‐induced suppression of IKv/Kv‐like; and inhibiting PKA activity by H89 abolished Meth effects on suppressing IKv/Kv‐like. Antagonizing TAAR1 might also attenuate Meth‐induced RMP depolarization. Voltage‐gated Ca2+ currents were not detected in HFAs. These novel findings demonstrate that Meth suppresses IKv/Kv‐like by facilitating the TAAR1/Gs/cAMP/PKA cascade and altering the kinetics of Kv/Kv‐like channel gating, but reduces K2P/K2P‐like channel activity through other pathway(s), in HFAs. Given that Meth‐induced decrease in astrocytic K+ efflux through K2P/K2P‐like and Kv/Kv‐like channels reduces extracellular K+ levels, such reduction could consequently contribute to a decreased excitability of surrounding neurons.

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The development of the cloaca in the human embryo
Authors: Kruepunga Nutmethee , Hikspoors Jill P. J. M. , Mekonen Hayelom K. , Mommen Greet M. C. , Meemon Krai , Weerachatyanukul Wattana , Asuvapongpatana Somluk , Eleonore Köhler S. , Lamers Wouter H.
Published: October 2018

Subdivision of cloaca into urogenital and anorectal passages has remained controversial because of disagreements about the identity and role of the septum developing between both passages. This study aimed to clarify the development of the cloaca using a quantitative 3D morphological approach in human embryos of 4–10 post‐fertilisation weeks. Embryos were visualised with Amira 3D‐reconstruction and Cinema 4D‐remodelling software. Distances between landmarks were computed with Amira3D software. Our main finding was a pronounced difference in growth between rapidly expanding central and ventral parts, and slowly or non‐growing cranial and dorsal parts. The entrance of the Wolffian duct into the cloaca proved a stable landmark that remained linked to the position of vertebra S3. Suppressed growth in the cranial cloaca resulted in an apparent craniodorsal migration of the entrance of the Wolffian duct, while suppressed growth in the dorsal cloaca changed the entrance of the hindgut from cranial to dorsal on the cloaca. Transformation of this ‘end‐to‐end’ into an ‘end‐to‐side’ junction produced temporary ‘lateral (Rathke's) folds’. The persistent difference in dorsoventral growth straightened the embryonic caudal body axis and concomitantly extended the frontally oriented ‘urorectal (Tourneux's) septum’ caudally between the ventral urogenital and dorsal anorectal parts of the cloaca. The dorsoventral growth difference also divided the cloacal membrane into a well‐developed ventral urethral plate and a thin dorsal cloacal membrane proper, which ruptured at 6.5 weeks. The expansion of the pericloacal mesenchyme followed the dorsoventral growth difference and produced the genital tubercle. Dysregulation of dorsal cloacal development is probably an important cause of anorectal malformations: too little regressive development may result in anorectal agenesis, and too much regression in stenosis or atresia of the remaining part of the dorsal cloaca.
Patrilocal, Matrilocal, or Neolocal? Intergenerational Proximity of Married Couples in China
Authors: Gruijters Rob J. , Ermisch John
Published: October 2018

Objective

The study describes current patterns of intergenerational proximity in China and analyzes the structural conditions that are associated with couples' proximity to the husband's and the wife's parents.

Background

Patrilocality is a core aspect of the traditional Chinese kinship system and is deeply rooted in Confucian beliefs. In recent decades, however, this custom has been challenged by internal migration as well changes in family values and preferences.

Method

The authors model the effect of each spouse's household registration (hukou) origin, education level, and sibling structure on intergenerational proximity using a nationally representative sample of 4,256 couples derived from the 2010 China Family Panel Studies.

Results

Almost 75% of married Chinese couples live with or in close proximity to the husband's parents. There is, however, a strong social gradient in intergenerational proximity, and patrilocality is particularly pronounced among rural‐origin and less‐educated couples. Matrilocal residence remains unusual, although it is more likely when the wife has no brothers.

Conclusion

The custom of patrilocal residence demonstrates a remarkable resilience, even as other patriarchal traditions have crumbled in the face of China's Great Transformation.

Implications

The authors provide explanations for the persistence of patrilocality and discuss implications for intergenerational support, gender inequality, and son preference.
Use of psychotropic medications in general paediatric practice
Authors: Hazell Philip
Published: October 2018

Paediatricians contribute the greatest proportion of prescriptions for psychotropic medication to children between the ages of 3 and 14 years in Australia. Medications indicated for attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder are the most commonly prescribed, followed by antidepressants and antipsychotics. Outside treatment for attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder, most prescribing is ‘off label’. There are few searchable, up‐to‐date resources to guide psychotropic prescribing to children. The skill level required to manage pharmacotherapy is determined by the condition and the characteristics of the patient. Psychotropic medication should always be considered within the context of other interventions and environmental factors that influence emotions, cognition and behaviour. Beware the ‘medication fallacy’ that arises out of a misconception that if one medication does not work, there must be another that will.
Tips for managing treatment‐resistant enuresis
Authors: Caldwell Patrina HY
Published: October 2018

Enuresis (bedwetting) is common in school‐aged children and can impact health, psychosocial well‐being and quality of life. Although effective treatment is available, treatment resistance is encountered in about 50%. This paper discusses the management of treatment‐resistant enuresis from a multidisciplinary perspective. Causes of treatment resistance include lower urinary tract problems, constipation, incorrect alarm training techniques, sleep disorders including sleep apnoea and psychological comorbidities. Practical suggestions to address treatment resistance are offered utilising expertise from clinicians from different disciplines.
Diagnosing cerebral palsy in full‐term infants
Authors: Morgan Catherine , Fahey Michael , Roy Bithi , Novak Iona
Published: October 2018

More than 50% of infants with cerebral palsy (CP) are born at or near term, with the vast majority having pre‐ or perinatally acquired CP. While some have a clinical history predictive of CP, such as neonatal encephalopathy or neonatal stroke, others have no readily identifiable risk factors. Paediatricians are often required to discriminate generalised motor delay from a variety of other diagnoses, including CP. This paper outlines known causal pathways to CP in term‐born infants with a focus on differential diagnosis. Early and accurate diagnosis is important as it allows prompt access to early intervention during the critical periods of brain development. A combination of clinical history taking, standard clinical examination, neuroimaging and genetic testing should be started at the time of referral. Attention to the investigation of common comorbidities of CP, including feeding and sleep difficulties, and referral to early intervention are recommended.
Vitamin D attenuates human gingival fibroblast inflammatory cytokine production following advanced glycation end product interaction with receptors for AGE
Authors: Elenkova Martina , Tipton David A. , Karydis Anastasios , Stein Sidney H.
Published: October 2018

Background and Objectives

Vitamin D [1,25(OH)2D3 or 1,25D3] is critical in musculoskeletal health, inflammation, immune response, and glucose metabolism. Patients with vitamin D deficiency may be at higher risk of diabetes and periodontitis. Diabetic patients exhibit exacerbated inflammation and more periodontal destruction. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs), formed during diabetic hyperglycemia, activate inflammatory pathways in periodontitis. Human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) express receptors for AGEs (RAGEs) and can contribute to inflammation.

Objectives

Determine whether glycated human serum albumin (G‐HSA) augments HGF IL‐6 and IL‐8 production, and whether treatment with 1,25D3 attenuates cytokine production following stimulation with G‐HSA + IL‐1β and/or IL‐17.

Material and Methods

HGFs were incubated ±G‐HSA or normal human serum albumin (HSA), ±IL‐1β and/or IL‐17, ±1,25D3. Cytokines were measured by ELISA. Neutralizing anti‐RAGE was used to assess AGE‐RAGE interaction. Endotoxin was measured using the ToxinSensor™ System. Data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation and analyzed using a one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Scheffe's F procedure for post hoc comparisons.

Results

G‐HSA or IL‐1β, but not HSA, significantly stimulated IL‐6 and IL‐8 production. G‐HSA or HSA when combined with IL‐1β or IL‐1β + IL‐17 synergistically stimulated IL‐6 and IL‐8. Neutralizing anti‐RAGE inhibited IL‐6 and IL‐8 produced by cells stimulated with IL‐1β + G‐HSA but not (+HSA). Synergism caused by HSA did not appear to be mediated by endotoxin since its levels in G‐HSA and HSA were not sufficient to stimulate fibroblasts. Vitamin D inhibited IL‐6 and IL‐8 production stimulated by G‐HSA or HSA + IL‐1β or IL‐1β + IL‐17.

Conclusions

Results suggest that the “perioprotective” effects of vitamin D are related to its ability to regulate inflammatory cytokine production by HGFs following AGE‐RAGE interaction.
Comparison of short‐term complications between unilateral and single‐session bilateral surgery for medial patellar luxation in small/medium breed dogs
Authors: Sanders L. B. , Bevan J. M.
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To compare the short‐term complications of unilateralversussingle‐session bilateral medial patellar luxation surgery in small dogs.

Materials and Methods

The medical records of dogs weighing less than 13∙6 kg that underwent medial patellar luxation surgery were reviewed. Dogs were included in one of two groups based on the type of surgery performed (unilateral or single‐session bilateral). Postoperative patellar luxation grade and complications were compared between the groups.

Results

Two hundred and fifty‐one dogs were included. In the bilateral treatment group, there was less improvement in patellar luxation grade and postoperative medial patellar luxation grade was higher. The frequency of major complications was higher in the bilateral group (23%) compared with the unilateral group (12%).

Clinical Significance

Single‐session bilateral medial patellar luxation surgery was associated with a higher complication rate compared to unilateral surgery in this non‐randomised observational study. Staged rather than single‐session bilateral surgery should be considered in dogs with bilateral medial patellar luxation to improve clinical outcome and reduce the chance of major complications.