bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toy gun eye injuries – eye protection needed Helsinki ocular trauma study
Authors: Haavisto Anna‐Kaisa , Sahraravand Ahmad , Puska Päivi , Leivo Tiina
Published: November 2018

Purpose

We report the epidemiology, findings, treatment, long‐term outcome and use of resources for eye injuries caused by toy guns in southern Finland.

Methods

All new patients injured by toy guns in one year (2011–2012) and treated at Helsinki University Eye Hospital were included. Follow‐ups occurred at 3 months and 5 years.

Results

Toy guns caused 15 eye traumas (1% of all eye traumas). Most patients were male (n = 14) and children aged under 16 years (n = 13). Toy guns involved were airsoft guns (n = 12), pea shooters (n = 2) and paintball (n = 1). Eleven patients did not use protective eyewear, and four patients discontinued their use during the game. Seven patients were not active participants in the game. Blunt ocular trauma was the primary diagnosis in 13 patients and corneal abrasion in two. Seven patients had retinal findings. In the 5‐year follow‐up, eight of 15 patients had abnormal ocular findings: three had artificial intraocular lens, two iridodialysis, and one each retinal plomb, mydriasis or iris tear. None had glaucoma. Seven patients had permanent subjective impairment due to pain, lowered visual acuity, blur or difficulty in focusing. Four patients needed seven operations. The number of outpatient visits was 90. One patient required hospitalization.

Conclusion

Toy guns cause serious eye traumas. No glaucoma was found. Proper use of toy guns and protective eyewear during the whole game should be emphasized to both players and bystanders. We recommend that in Finland the selling of airsoft guns be placed under the Firearms Act to make the hazards of airsoft guns known.
Prevalence of anterior polar cataracts in children and risk factors for amblyopia
Authors: Rasul Asrin , Kessel Line
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Anterior polar cataract is an opacity in the anterior capsule of the lens. Anterior polar cataract has historically been considered as a relatively benign condition. The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of anterior polar cataract, to identify the risk factors for amblyopia and to estimate the risk of developing amblyopia in children with anterior polar cataract.

Methods

The medical records for patients with congenital cataracts at the Eye Clinic Rigshospitalet, Rigshospitalet‐Glostrup and Kennedy Center covering a ten year period from 2007 to 2016 (both metres  years included) were reviewed.

Results

A total of 54 patients with anterior polar cataract were identified. The majority had unilateral anterior polar cataract (72%). Family history of childhood cataracts was frequent (27%) of patients with bilateral anterior polar cataract. There was an overrepresentation of female patients (70%). Amblyopia was found in 55% of the patients. The causes were primarily hypermetropic anisometropia (70%) and astigmatism (52%). Axial length was on average 0.88 mm (SD 0.44) shorter in the eye with anterior polar cataract compared to fellow eyes.

Conclusion

Anterior polar cataract is a highly amblyogenic condition not because of a visually obstructing lens opacity but because of refractive errors, primarily hypermetropic anisometropia and astigmatism. Anterior polar cataract seems to represent an anomaly in global eye development resulting in reduced axial length. Patients with anterior polar cataract should be monitored to detect and treat amblyopia in time.
Going global: Internationally mobile young people as caring citizens in higher education
Authors: Reddy Sertanya
Published: November 2018

The current literature on global education is dominated by a neoliberal framing of students, either celebrating or critiquing the youth subject as competitive, individualistic, and driven by the acquisition of economic capital. In contrast, this research incorporates theories of care into an analysis of the citizenship practised by college students on a global education programme. By attending to young people's relationships of mutual dependency and responsibility, which are inflected by race and class, this article examines students’ global experiences beyond a purely neoliberal framing. This research suggests that a care‐based approach to citizenship may more accurately capture the nuanced intricacies of young people's lives by taking into account two factors that have received little theoretical exploration in global education. First, young people make sense of their time abroad according to relations of love, dependency and care with others, rather than primarily in terms of future financial gain. Second, students engaged in global opportunities find themselves traversing historical trajectories of oppression that result in them reflecting on their position in the world, engendering feelings of responsibility in terms of addressing historical inequalities and current injustices. Student citizenship cannot be explained by neoliberalism alone, but instead encompasses deep relationality as well as the development of radical concern. This research demonstrates that producing student‐centred geographies of global education makes visible young people's manoeuvrings in and through various relations, which are illustrative of their political agency as caring citizens in the midst of neoliberalism.
A flowing conversation? Methodological issues in interviewing farmers about rivers and riparian environments
Authors: Thomas Emma , Riley Mark , Smith Hugh
Published: November 2018

Geographers are increasingly paying close attention to the importance of the place (and placing) of the research encounter. Research with farmers – who have been seen to hold very distinct people–place relations – is proving a particularly fruitful arena for developing these emplaced methodological discussions. To date, however, such emplaced methodological reflections with farmers have been largely terra‐centric, with relatively scant focus on rivers and riparian environments on farms. Within this paper we explore the methodological challenges of interviewing farmers about their lived experiences of, and perspectives on, rivers and riparian environments. We note how positionality is central to gaining access and suggest how performing the role of “geographical ignorance” can help simultaneously play the role of insider and outsider. We consider how engaging farmers in discussion about their riparian environments offers a different methodological challenge to engaging them in discussion of their land‐management practices as many struggle to articulate their knowledge of these environments and we reflect on how interview structure and being on and moving around the farm can act as a way of encouraging farmers’ narratives of these spaces.
My way or the highway: High narcissism and low self‐esteem predict decreased support for democracy
Authors: Marchlewska Marta , Castellanos Kevin A. , Lewczuk Karol , Kofta Mirosław , Cichocka Aleksandra
Published: November 2018

In two studies, we analysed the relationships between different types of self‐evaluation (i.e., narcissism and self‐esteem) and support for democracy. Support for democracy requires the ability to respect the views and opinions of others, even if one disagrees with them. Classic studies have linked support for democracy with high self‐evaluation, which should assume psychological security and, thus, the ability to trust others. However, not all forms of high self‐evaluation are secure. Narcissists have high feelings of self‐worth, but tend to be defensive: They are easily threatened by criticisms or conflicting views. We then expected that while support for democracy should be positively predicted by secure, non‐narcissistic self‐evaluation, it should be negatively predicted by narcissistic self‐evaluation. In two studies, conducted in the United States (Study 1,n = 407) and in Poland (Study 2,n = 405), support for democracy was positively predicted by self‐esteem and negatively predicted by narcissism. Study 2 additionally demonstrated that interpersonal trust mediated the effects of self‐esteem on support for democracy. We discuss the role of psychological predispositions in understanding support for democratic systems.
Mutational activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor down‐regulates major histocompatibility complex class I expression via the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase in non–small cell lung cancer
Authors: Watanabe Satomi , Hayashi Hidetoshi , Haratani Koji , Shimizu Shigeki , Tanizaki Junko , Sakai Kazuko , Kawakami Hisato , Yonesaka Kimio , Tsurutani Junji , Togashi Yosuke , Nishio Kazuto , Ito Akihiko , Nakagawa Kazuhiko
Published: November 2018

The efficacy of programmed cell death–1 (PD‐1) blockade in patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) positive for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene mutations has been found to be limited, but the underlying mechanisms for this poor response have remained obscure. Given that the recognition by T cells of tumor antigens presented by major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC‐I) molecules is essential for an antitumor immune response, we examined the effects of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) on MHC‐I expression in NSCLC cell lines. Appropriate EGFR‐TKIs increased MHC‐I expression at the mRNA and cell surface protein levels in NSCLC cells positive for EGFR mutations including those with the T790M secondary mutation. Trametinib, an inhibitor of the extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) kinase MEK, also increased MHC‐I expression, whereas the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) inhibitor buparlisib did not, suggesting that the MEK‐ERK pathway mediates the down‐regulation of MHC‐I expression in response to EGFR activation. Immunohistochemical analysis of EGFR‐mutated NSCLC specimens obtained before and after EGFR‐TKI treatment also revealed down‐regulation of phosphorylated forms of EGFR and ERK in association with up‐regulation of MHC‐I, an increased number of infiltrating CD8+ T cells, and increased PD‐1 ligand 1 expression after such treatment. Our results thus suggest that mutational activation of EGFR inhibits MHC‐I expression through the MEK‐ERK pathway in NSCLC and thereby contributes to the poor response of such tumors to immunotherapy. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the relation between EGFR‐MEK‐ERK signaling in and the immune response to EGFR‐mutated NSCLC.
Counting Young Carers in Switzerland – A Study of Prevalence
Authors: Leu Agnes , Frech Marianne , Wepf Hannah , Sempik Joe , Joseph Stephen , Helbling Laura , Moser Urs , Becker Saul , Jung Corinna
Published: November 2018

An online survey of children in school grades 4–9 (mostly aged 10–15) was conducted in order to determine the prevalence of young carers in Switzerland using a 2‐stage stratified sampling approach. 4082 respondents were drawn from 230 schools. A total of 3991 respondents were included in the analysis and of these 307 (7.7%) were identified as young carers. The population estimate of prevalence was 7.9 per cent. This suggests that there are around 38 400 young carers in school grades 4–9 in Switzerland. Extrapolating to the 9–16 age group gives a figure of almost 51 500.
THE ROLE OF NATIONAL DEBTS IN THE DETERMINATION OF THE YEN‐DOLLAR EXCHANGE RATE
Authors: Litsios Ioannis , Pilbeam Keith
Published: November 2018

An intertemporal optimization model is developed to examine the determinants of the long‐run nominal yen‐dollar exchange rate in the presence of national debts. The model is tested empirically using data from Japan and the United States. The proposed theoretical specification is well supported by the data and shows that relative national debts as well as monetary and financial factors may play a significant role in the determination of the long‐run nominal exchange rate between the yen and the dollar. (JELF31, G11, G15)
Public investment under autocracy and social unrest
Authors: Gwatipedza Johnson , Janus Thorsten
Published: November 2018

This paper studies the determinants of public investment under autocracy. The optimal investment level balances rent extraction with increasing the future tax base and preventing social unrest. The citizens balance their time between producing and protesting. The labor supply is downward distorted. The public investment level suffers three downward distortions and a fourth, potentially upward distortion. The joint distortions can generate moderate to large efficiency losses. Empirically we show that government spending in autocracies varies more and is less related to tax collections than in democracies. Additionally, it responds to democratization pressure.
Recommended regulated non‐quarantine pests (RNQPs), associated thresholds and risk management measures in the European and Mediterranean region
Authors: Picard C. , Afonso T. , Benko‐Beloglavec A. , Karadjova O. , Matthews‐Berry S. , Paunovic S. A. , Pietsch M. , Reed P. , van der Gaag D. J. , Ward M.
Published: November 2018

Some pests may be present on plants for planting and cause an unacceptable economic impact on the intended use of these plants, even though they are already present in the area. By consequence, these pests may be regulated and then called ‘Regulated Non‐Quarantine Pests’ (RNQPs) according to international standards. RNQPs, often not identified as such, are commonly regulated either together with quarantine pests in plant health regulations, or within programmes for the certification of plants for planting through specific requirements for pests and diseases that come in addition to non‐phytosanitary requirements. In 2016, Union RNQPs have been introduced in the new EU plant health regulation which shall apply from December 2019. In this context, EPPO agreed to undertake a 2‐year project on RNQPs, the EU Quality Pest Project. After having developed a methodology, data were collected through a rapid bibliography of scientific literature, questionnaire responses, exchanges on practical experience within six sector expert working groups, as well as a consultation of EPPO member countries, in order to perform a rapid evaluation of the RNQP status of about 1400 pest‐host‐intended use combinations. The resulting list of pests fulfilling the RNQP definition is presented in this paper, as well as the main issues discussed on thresholds and risk management measures.
Genetic signatures of small effective population sizes and demographic declines in an endangered rattlesnake, Sistrurus catenatus
Authors: Sovic Michael , Fries Anthony , Martin Scott A. , Lisle Gibbs H.
Published: November 2018

Endangered species that exist in small isolated populations are at elevated risk of losing adaptive variation due to genetic drift. Analyses that estimate short‐term effective population sizes, characterize historical demographic processes, and project the trajectory of genetic variation into the future are useful for predicting how levels of genetic diversity may change. Here, we use data from two independent types of genetic markers (single nucleotide polymorphisms [SNPs] and microsatellites) to evaluate genetic diversity in 17 populations spanning the geographic range of the endangered eastern massasauga rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus). First, we use SNP data to confirm previous reports that these populations exhibit high levels of genetic structure (overall Fst = 0.25). Second, we show that most populations have contemporary Ne estimates <50. Heterozygosity–fitness correlations in these populations provided no evidence for a genetic cost to living in small populations, though these tests may lack power. Third, model‐based demographic analyses of individual populations indicate that all have experienced declines, with the onset of many of these declines occurring over timescales consistent with anthropogenic impacts (<200 years). Finally, forward simulations of the expected loss of variation in relatively large (Ne = 50) and small (Ne = 10) populations indicate they will lose a substantial amount of their current standing neutral variation (63% and 99%, respectively) over the next 100 years. Our results argue that drift has a significant and increasing impact on levels of genetic variation in isolated populations of this snake, and efforts to assess and mitigate associated impacts on adaptive variation should be components of the management of this endangered reptile.
Genomic signatures of introgression between commercial and native bumblebees, Bombus terrestris, in western Iberian Peninsula—Implications for conservation and trade regulation
Authors: Seabra Sofia G. , Silva Sara E. , Nunes Vera L. , Sousa Vitor C. , Martins Joana , Marabuto Eduardo , Rodrigues Ana S. B. , Pina‐Martins Francisco , Laurentino Telma G. , Rebelo Maria Teresa , Figueiredo Elisabete , Paulo Octávio S.
Published: November 2018

Human‐mediated introductions of species may have profound impacts on native ecosystems. One potential impact with largely unforeseen consequences is the potential admixture of introduced with autochthonous species through hybridization. Throughout the world, bumblebees have been deliberately introduced for crop pollination with known negative impacts on native pollinators. Given the likely allochthonous origin of commercial bumblebees used in Portugal (subspecies Bombus terrestris terrestris and B. t. dalmatinus), our aim was to assess their putative introgression with the native Iberian subspecies B. terrestris lusitanicus. We analysed one mitochondrial gene, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COX1) and genomic data involving thousands of genome‐wide restriction‐site‐associated DNA markers (RAD‐seq). In the mitochondrial COX1 analyses, we detected one relatively common haplotype in commercial bumblebees, also present in wild samples collected nearby the greenhouses where the commercial hives are used. In the RAD‐seq analysis, we found a clear genetic differentiation between native and commercial lineages. Furthermore, we detected candidate hybrids in the wild, as well as putatively escaped commercial bumblebees, some of which being potentially fertile males. Although we cannot assess directly the fitness effects of introgressed alleles, there is a risk of maladaptive allele introgression to the local bumblebee subspecies, which can negatively impact autochthon populations. One immediate recommendation to farmers is for the proper disposal of hive boxes, after their use in greenhouses, so as to minimize the risk of escapees contaminating native populations. On the other hand, the feasibility of using local subspecies B. t. lusitanicus, preferably with local production, should be evaluated.
Activography reveals aberrant proteolysis in desquamating diseases of differing backgrounds
Authors: Zingkou Eleni , Pampalakis Georgios , Kiritsi Dimitra , Valari Manthoula , Jonca Nathalie , Sotiropoulou Georgia
Published: November 2018

The role of epidermal proteolysis in overdesquamation was revealed in Netherton syndrome, a rare ichthyosis due to genetic deficiency of the LEKTI inhibitor of serine proteases. Recently, we developed activography, a new histochemical method, to spatially localize and semiquantitatively assess proteolytic activities using activity‐based probes. Activography provides specificity and versatility compared to in situ zymography, the only available method to determine enzymatic activities in tissue biopsies. Here, activography was validated in skin biopsies obtained from an array of distinct disorders and compared with in situ zymography. Activography provides a methodological advancement due to its simplicity and specificity and can be readily adapted as a routine diagnostic assay. Interestingly, the levels of epidermal proteolysis correlated with the degree of desquamation independent of skin pathology. Thus, deregulated epidermal proteolysis likely represents a universal mechanism underlying aberrant desquamation.
Detection of fluid secretion of three‐dimensional reconstructed eccrine sweat glands by magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Li Haihong , Chen Liyun , Zhang Mingjun , Xie Sitian , Zhang Cuiping
Published: November 2018

We previously showed three‐dimensional (3D) reconstructed eccrine sweat glands have similar structures as native eccrine sweat glands, but whether the 3D reconstructed sweat glands appropriately secrete fluid is still unknown. In this study, Matrigel‐embedded human eccrine sweat gland cells or Matrigel alone were implanted into the groin subcutis of the nude mice. Ten weeks post‐implantation, images of the subcutaneously formed plugs, as well as footpads of rats, pre‐ and post‐pilocarpine/normal saline (NS) injection were acquired using a fat‐suppressed proton density‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequence at 7.0 T, and the regions of interest (ROIs) in plugs and rat footpads were analysed and graphed. A significant increase in the ROI mean proton intensity occurred in both 3D reconstructed and native eccrine sweat glands after pilocarpine injection. The mean proton intensity had no noticeable changes in ROIs of Matrigel plugs between pre‐ and post‐pilocarpine injection, and in ROIs of rat footpads between pre‐ and post‐NS injection. In conclusion, the 3D reconstructed sweat glands possess fluid secretion, which is detectable by fat‐suppressed proton density‐weighted MRI.
‘Inside Out’– a dialogue between mitochondria and bacteria
Authors: Han Bing , Lin Chih‐Chun Janet , Hu Guo , Wang Meng C.
Published: November 2018

Mitochondria play crucial roles in regulating metabolism and longevity. A body of recent evidences reveals that the gut microbiome can also exert significant effects on these activities in the host. Here, by summarizing the currently known mechanisms underlying these regulations, and by comparing mitochondrial fission–fusion dynamics with bacterial interactions such as quorum sensing, we hypothesize that the microbiome impacts the host by communicating with their intracellular relatives, mitochondria. We highlight recent discoveries supporting this model, and these new findings reveal that metabolite molecules derived from bacteria can fine‐tune mitochondrial dynamics in intestinal cells and hence influence host metabolic fitness and longevity. This perspective mode of chemical communication between bacteria and mitochondria may help us understand complex and dynamic environment–microbiome–host interactions regarding their vital impacts on health and diseases.
The biology of the cell – insights from mass cytometry
Authors: Brodin Petter
Published: November 2018

In single‐cell biology there is an ongoing push toward more and more comprehensive measurements made in individual cells. By combining measurements of proteins, mRNA, genetic, and epigenetic traits, in contexts of cell stimulation or drug treatment, novel single‐cell analyses will help understand the determinants of cellular identity, differentiation decisions, and regulatory mechanisms governing cellular function in health and disease. Mass cytometry is a flexible methodology not only developed toward this aim, allowing analyses of cells in suspension such as blood but also extended for the analyses of tissue sections. Here, I will discuss the different measurements possible by mass cytometry and not only discuss its potential but also its limitations now and in the years to come.
Reflections on the go‐along: How “disruptions” can illuminate the relationships of health, place and practice
Authors: Thompson Claire , Reynolds Joanna
Published: November 2018

Go‐alongs are qualitative interviews conducted by a researcher accompanying participants on a journey, tour or place‐specific activity. Go‐alongs emerged as a distinct method amid increasing theoretical emphasis on place and a wave of methodological innovations seeking to investigate spatial experiences. In this paper we employ a lens of “disruption” to reflect upon our varied usages of go‐alongs in qualitative research examining health and place. We observe that go‐alongs generate physical and discursive disruptions that challenge the illusion of certainty and “tidiness” in the interview encounter. The researcher is exposed to unanticipated detours, creating diverse opportunities to explore health and place as emergent topics. The method also illuminates narrative inconsistencies that reveal the complex influence of particular contexts in real time. For health and well‐being research, the value of the “disruptive” go‐along lies in its capacity to offer new insights into the myriad interactions between place, practice and health experiences.
CGRP, Amylin, Immunology, and Headache Medicine
Authors: Taylor Frederick R.
Published: November 2018

Background

Calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) therapeutics introduce new excitement and possibly yet to be determined distressing discords in the field of Headache Medicine. Growth in knowledge of CGRP in the pathophysiology of migraine introduced CGRP antagonism to headache treatment. Potential adverse effects on the other circulatory and neurovascular diseases have been foremost concerns. Failures in development of gepants and growth in knowledge of monoclonal antibody therapeutics combined to deliver the anti‐CGRP monoclonal antibodies (mAbs).

Current Situation as of July 2018

Erenumab, eptinezumab, fremanezumab, and galcanezumab are approved, submitted to, or preparing for submission at both the European Medicines Agency and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Methods

This Headache Currents update emanates from a symposium on CGRP and immunology in Headache Medicine, and reviews both.

Results and Conclusion

Understanding CGRP in Headache Medicine requires information on aspects of the CGRP ligand, cell surface G protein receptor, CGRP receptor specifics, and antagonism by CGRP small and large molecules. Recent reports of CGRP’s high affinity for amylin receptors dictate some attention to this family‐related peptide. To better understand potential immunogenic risks and off‐target toxicities of the anti‐CGRP monoclonal antibodies, this review discusses immunology and CGRP and reviews IgG structure and function, monoclonal antibody production, ligand–antigen–antibody relationships, and clinical CGRP mAb specifics. Upon completion, the reader should better summarize CGRP antagonist fundamentals, recall antibody structure and function, restate therapeutic mAbs attributes, and appraise immunogenic risks.
Purification of β‐carotene 15,15′‐monooxygenase from pig intestine and its enzymatic hydrolysis of pigment in soybean oil
Authors: Yu Dianyu , Zhang Ruchun , Wang Yuqi , Zou Dezhi , Li Tingting , Tang Honglin , Jiang Lianzhou , Wang Liqi
Published: November 2018

β‐Carotene 15,15′‐monooxygenase was isolated and purified from the intestinal mucosa of pigs, and then, it was applied to hydrolyse the pigment in soybean oil, and thus, vitamin A fortified soybean oil was obtained. The pig intestinal mucosal protein solution was purified to a specific activity of 2.487 × 10−4 U mg−1, maximum reaction velocity (Vmax) of 8.42 × 10−9 mol/h and Michaelis constant (Km) of 2.03 × 10−5 m. The protein solution had a molecular mass of 156 kDa by gel filtration. The sodium deoxycholate concentrations, optimum pH, Tween 40 amount and enzyme amount for vitamin A production in soybean oil were determined to be 6.0 mm, 8.0, 3.0% (w/v) and 0.2 U/mL enzyme, respectively. Under these conditions, β‐carotene 15,15′‐monooxygenase produced 14.65 mg/L vitamin A after 20 h, with a conversion yield of β‐carotene of 33.29% (w/w). Therefore, the nutrients in soybean oil were improved.
Process optimisation of pulsed electric fields pre‐treatment to reduce the sous vide processing time of beef briskets
Authors: Alahakoon Amali U. , Oey Indrawati , Bremer Phil , Silcock Patrick
Published: November 2018

This study used multiple regression to model the effect of pulsed electric field (electric field strengths 0.7, 1.0 or 1.5 kV cm−1) and sous vide (60 °C for either 12, 18 or 24 h) processing on the quality parameters (tenderness, cooking loss, colour, lipid stability) of beef brisket. Pulsed electric fields (PEF) at 0.7 kV cm−1 and 1.5 kV cm−1 followed by sous vide processing for 12–20.2 and 20.8–23.7 h, respectively gave the lowest values for hardness (<20.2 N), shear force (100.5 N mm−1 s−1) and cooking loss (<17.4%). PEF treatment prior to sous vide processing had no significant effect on lipid oxidation, colour stability, cooking loss or in vitro protein digestibility of sous vide‐processed brisket. Increasing the electric field strength and/or prolonging the sous vide time significantly increased collagen solubilisation in the sous vide brisket. This study demonstrated that a PEF pre‐treatment can reduce sous vide processing time while enhancing the tenderness of tough meat cuts.
Longitudinal investigation of the reciprocal relationship between depressive symptoms and glycemic control: The moderation effects of sex and perceived support
Authors: Chiu Ching‐Ju , Du Ye‐Fong
Published: November 2018

Aims/Introduction

The present study investigated the longitudinal associations between depressive symptoms and glycemic control in nationally representative adults with type 2 diabetes, and tested the effects of sex and perceived family support in moderating this association.

Materials and Methods

In this longitudinal study of middle‐aged and older adults who participated in the 2002 and 2006 Health and Retirement Study, and the 2003 and 2006 Diabetes Study (n = 398), we applied a cross‐lagged structural equation model to examine the reciprocal relationship between depressive symptoms and glycemic control over a 3‐year period.

Results

Men and women were not different in terms of the depressive symptoms and glycemic control relationship, with a stronger association noted for higher depressive symptom scores predicting worse glycemic control (β = 0.22, critical ratio 3.03), as opposed to worse glycemic control predicting higher depressive symptom scores. Family and friend support for diabetes self‐management serves as an important buffer. In patients with low family and friend support, more depressive symptoms at baseline were associated with subsequent worse glycemic levels (β = 0.36, critical ratio 4.03). In contrast, in individuals who had strong support, depressive symptoms did not predict subsequent glycemic control.

Conclusions

The present study provided evidence for the relationship between glycemic control and depression, finding that depressive symptoms predicted poorly controlled glycemic status, especially when the participants perceived inadequate support from their family or friends. A quick survey in clinics to assess the level of family or friend support for diabetes management and depressive symptoms might be an important part of individualized diabetic care.
The economics of markets and platforms
Authors: Spulber Daniel F.
Published: November 2018

Advances in the study of both markets and platforms contribute to economics. Platforms are typically digital markets, although platforms can designate markets generally. So, the economics of markets and the economics of platforms are one and the same. Platforms show the critical role of intermediaries in endogenous price adjustment and market clearing. The platform model remedies problems with general equilibrium analysis by combining and extending the basic Walrasian and Marshalian market models. The analysis of platforms provides explanations for the bid–ask spread, including market power, search costs, matching costs, adverse selection, and moral hazard. The study of platforms demonstrates the importance of participation and coordination in the formation of markets. The discussion emphasizes that platforms have significant implications for the theory of the firm. The analysis further considers how platforms affect innovation and entrepreneurship.
Financial constraints and synergy gains from mergers and acquisitions
Authors: Duan Yang , Jin Yong
Published: November 2018

This paper examines mergers and acquisitions motivated by financial constraints. Synergy gain is measured as the cumulative abnormal return of a value‐weighted portfolio of the acquirer and the target around the acquisition announcement. By constructing a financial constraint difference between the target and the acquirer, we find a positive relationship between the financial constraint difference and synergy gains generated from the acquisition. The positive effect of the financial constraint difference is only significant for high growth targets and severely constrained targets. The acquirer's corporate governance also enhances the synergy gains created from the financial constraint difference. Additional evidence shows that both acquirer's and target's shareholders benefit from the financial constraint difference. Our results are robust for different measures of financial constraint.
Migrants’ Healthcare Experience: A Meta‐Ethnography Review of the Literature
Authors: Luiking Marie‐Louise , Heckemann Birgit , Ali Parveen , Dekker‐van Doorn Connie , Ghosh Sumana , Kydd Angela , Watson Roger , Patel Harshida
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Worldwide, more than 214 million people have left their country of origin. This unprecedented mass migration impacts health care in host countries. This article explores and synthesizes literature on the healthcare experiences of migrants.

Design

A meta‐ethnography study of qualitative studies was conducted.

Methods

Eight databases (Medline, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature [CINAHL], PsycINFO, Embase, Web of Science, Migration Observatory, National Health Service Scotland Knowledge Network, and Adaptive Spectrum and Signal Alignment [ASSIA]) were searched for relevant full‐text articles in English, published between January 2006 and June 2016. Articles were screened against inclusion criteria for eligibility. Included articles were assessed for quality and analyzed using Noblit and Hare's seven‐step meta‐ethnography process.

Findings

Twenty‐seven studies were included in the review. Five key contextualization dimensions were identified: personal factors, the healthcare system, accessing healthcare, the encounter, and the healthcare experience. These five areas all underlined the uniqueness of each individual migrant, emphasizing the need to treat a person rather than a population. Within a true person‐centered approach, the individual's cultural background is fundamental to effective care.

Conclusions

From the findings, a model has been designed using the five dimensions and grounded in a person‐centered care approach. This may help healthcare providers to identify weak points, as well as to improve the organization and healthcare professionals’ ability to provide person‐centered care to migrant patients.

Clinical Relevance

The proposed model facilitates identification of points of weakness in the care of migrant patients. Employing a person‐centered care approach may contribute to improve health outcomes for migrant patients.
Qualitative and quantitative molecular analysis indicate the presence of Phaeomoniella chlamydospora in vineyard soils
Authors: Saccà Maria Ludovica , Manici Luisa Maria , Caputo Francesco , Frisullo Salvatore
Published: November 2018

During the past two decades, esca disease has emerged as one of the most important diseases of grapevines. Esca is caused by complex of fungal pathogens, one of the main being Phaeomoniella chlamydospora (Pch). Since propagation material is considered one of the main infection sources of this fungus, most studies on Pch detection have focused on plant tissues and nursery soils. Conversely, due to methodological limitations encountered in retrieving this slow‐growing fungus, little is known about its true occurrence in vineyard soils. This study presents the adaptation of a molecular‐based methodology for the detection and quantification of Pch in soil samples. For this purpose, soil from the root‐explored area of esca‐foliar symptomatic and asymptomatic plants was sampled in 17 adult vineyards in two different climatic regions. Qualitative and quantitative nested PCR assays indicated the presence of Pch DNA in soil, differentiating between vineyards and regions, regardless of esca symptoms. The number of positive samples (32%) detected in the vineyards indicates that Pch can be recovered in natural soils, thus opening perspectives for the use of molecular tools in the study of the ecology and epidemiology of this fungus in soil.
Feed processing effects on digestibility, palatability, excreta fermentation products and blood parameters in blue‐fronted amazon parrots (Amazona aestiva)†
Authors: Di Santo Ludmilla G. , Braos Lucas B. , Kawanami Aline E. , Oliveira Juliana P. , Cruz Nathan R. N. , Mendonça Fernanda S. , Peixoto Mayara C. , Carciofi Aulus C.
Published: November 2018

Captive parrots show a high incidence of obesity and other metabolic disorders due to the consumption of unbalanced diets. Therefore, this study evaluated the digestibility and metabolic effects of transitioning blue‐fronted amazons from a high fat diet (sunflower seeds) to processed diets with three degrees of starch gelatinization (SG). The same feed formulation was processed to obtain pelletized feed (PEL) at 27.1% SG; low‐cooked extruded feed (EXTL) at 81.6% SG; and high‐cooked extruded feed (EXTH) at 98.5% SG. Thirty adult parrots were fed sunflower seeds for 90 days, then were distributed in a completely randomized design with 10 repetitions per treatment, and fed one of the three prepared diets for 160 days. Feed palatability, apparent digestibility, excreta concentrations of volatile fatty acids, lactate and ammonia, initial and final radiographic examinations, blood cell counts and glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, total protein, albumin, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and uric acid levels were evaluated. The data were analysed by an analysis of variance and compared by Tukey's test (p < 0.05). Sunflower seed was more digestible than processed feeds (p < 0.05). Diet processing interfered with fat and starch digestibility (p < 0.001), being higher in the PEL than in the EXTH and EXTL respectively. Transitioning from sunflower seeds to balanced diets reduced serum glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol and AST (p < 0.05) and increased red blood cell, haemoglobin, lymphocyte, monocyte and leucocyte counts (p < 0.01). Radiographs indicated a decreased hourglass (p = 0.015) and a reduced heart‐liver ratio after ingesting the processed feeds (p < 0.05). Feed processing did not affect blood cell counts, serum biochemistry or radiographic examinations. In conclusion, parrots preferred the extruded diet and did not require an extensive SG to properly digest the feed. Consuming the processed diets improved the birds’ metabolism and health.
Legislative Bellwethers: The Role of Committee Membership in Parliamentary Debate
Authors: Fernandes Jorge M. , Goplerud Max , Won Miguel
Published: November 2018

Political parties and legislators use legislative debates to establish their reputation, challenge rivals, and engage in coalition management, among many other tasks. Yet, existing theories on parliamentary debates have abstracted away from the need for information and expertise, which are costly to acquire. Drawing on the “informational” perspective on legislative organization, we address this problem by arguing that party leaders use committees as training arenas for their backbenchers. They task their assigned members with acquiring specific expertise and then rely heavily on those members during the corresponding debates. We turn to the Portuguese legislature, from 2000 to 2015, to discuss how saliency, government dynamics, and party size affect the use of experts. We test this theory using a novel approach to classify speeches that leverages the texts of legislation as training data for a supervised approach.
Genome sequencing of oomycete isolates from Chile supports the New Zealand origin of Phytophthora kernoviae and makes available the first Nothophytophthora sp. genome
Authors: Studholme David J. , Panda Preeti , Sanfuentes Von Stowasser Eugenio , González Mariela , Hill Rowena , Sambles Christine , Grant Murray , Williams Nari M. , McDougal Rebecca L.
Published: November 2018

Genome sequences were generated for six oomycete isolates collected from forests in Valdivia, Chile. Three of the isolates were identified morphologically as Phytophthora kernoviae, whereas two were similar to other clade 10 Phytophthora species. One isolate was tentatively identified as Nothophytophthora valdiviana based on nucleotide sequence similarity in the cytochrome oxidase 1 gene. This is the first genome sequence for this recently described genus. The genome assembly was more fragmented and contained many duplicated genes when compared with the other Phytophthora sequences. Comparative analyses were performed with genomic sequences of the P. kernoviae isolates from the UK and New Zealand. Although the potential New Zealand origin of P. kernoviae has been suggested, new isolations from Chile had cast doubt on this hypothesis. We present evidence supporting P. kernoviae as having originated in New Zealand. However, investigation of the diversity of oomycete species in Chile has been limited and warrants further exploration. We demonstrate the expediency of genomic analyses in determining phylogenetic relationships between isolates within new and often scantly represented taxonomic groups, such as Phytophthora clade 10 and Nothophytophthora. Data are available on GenBank via BioProject accession number PRJNA352331.
Establishment of a selection marker recycling system for sequential transformation of the plant‐pathogenic fungus Colletotrichum orbiculare
Authors: Kumakura Naoyoshi , Ueno Akiko , Shirasu Ken
Published: November 2018

Genome sequencing of pathogenic fungi has revealed the presence of various effectors that aid pathogen invasion by the manipulation of plant immunity. Effectors are often individually dispensable because of duplication and functional redundancy as a result of the arms race between host plants and pathogens. To study effectors that have functional redundancy, multiple gene disruption is often required. However, the number of selection markers that can be used for gene targeting is limited. Here, we established a marker recycling system that allows the use of the same selection marker in successive transformations in the model fungal pathogen Colletotrichum orbiculare, a causal agent of anthracnose disease in plants belonging to the Cucurbitaceae. We identified two C. orbiculare homologues of yeast URA3/pyrG, designated as URA3A and URA3B, which can be used as selection markers on medium with no uridine. The gene can then be removed from the genome via homologous recombination when the fungus is grown in the presence of 5‐fluoroorotic acid (5‐FOA), a chemical that is converted into a toxin by URA3 activity. The ura3a/b double mutants showed auxotrophy for uridine and insensitivity to 5‐FOA. Using the ura3a/b mutants, transformation with the URA3B marker and its removal were successfully applied to disrupt the virulence‐related gene, PKS1. The pks1 mutants showed a reduction in virulence, demonstrating that the method can be used to study virulence‐related genes in C. orbiculare. The establishment of a URA3‐based marker recycling system in plant‐pathogenic fungi enables the genetic analysis of multiple genes that have redundant functions, including effector genes.
An Omnibus Non-Parametric Test of Equality in Distribution for Unknown Functions
Authors: Luedtke Alex , Carone Marco , van der Laan Mark J.
Published: November 2018

We present a novel family of non-parametric omnibus tests of the hypothesis that two unknown but estimable functions are equal in distribution when applied to the observed data structure. We developed these tests, which represent a generalization of the maximum mean discrepancy tests described by Gretton and colleagues, using recent developments from the higher order pathwise differentiability literature. Despite their complex derivation, the associated test statistics can be expressed quite simply as U-statistics. We study the asymptotic behaviour of the proposed tests under the null hypothesis and under both fixed and local alternatives. We provide examples to which our tests can be applied and show that they perform well in a simulation study. As an important special case, our proposed tests can be used to determine whether an unknown function, such as the conditional average treatment effect, is equal to zero almost surely.
Careful Prior Specification Avoids Incautious Inference for Log-Gaussian Cox Point Processes
Authors: S⊘rbye Sigrunn H. , Illian Janine B. , Simpson Daniel P. , Burslem David , Rue Håvard
Published: November 2018

Hyperprior specifications for random fields in spatial point process modelling can have a major influence on the results. In fitting log-Gaussian Cox processes to rainforest tree species, we consider a reparameterized model combining a spatially structured and an unstructured random field into a single component. This component has one hyperparameter accounting for marginal variance, whereas an additional hyperparameter governs the fraction of the variance that is explained by the spatially structured effect. This facilitates interpretation of the hyperparameters, and significance of covariates is studied for a range of hyperprior specifications. Appropriate scaling makes the analysis invariant to grid resolution.
Exploring Patterns of Demand in Bike Sharing Systems Via Replicated Point Process Models
Authors: Gervini Daniel , Khanal Manoj
Published: November 2018

Understanding patterns of demand is fundamental for fleet management of bike sharing systems. We analyse data from the Divvy system of the city of Chicago. We show that the demand for bicycles can be modelled as a multivariate temporal point process, with each dimension corresponding to a bike station in the network. The availability of daily replications of the process enables non-parametric estimation of the intensity functions, even for stations with low daily counts, and straightforward estimation of pairwise correlations between stations. These correlations are then used for clustering, revealing different patterns of bike usage.
The Effects of Macroeconomic Policy with a Disparity in Price Elasticity Between Private‐ and Public‐ Sector Demands
Authors: Ishiguro Yasuko
Published: November 2018

We introduce a disparity in price elasticity between government demand and consumption demand into a simple money‐in‐the‐utility‐function model. This extension demonstrates that the effect of fiscal policies on production may be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the disparity in price elasticity between sectors. Because the effect of an increase in nominal money supply with constant nominal government expenditure is the opposite to that of a fiscal policy, a fiscal policy financed by seigniorage can have positive, negative, or no effects depending on parameter values. Moreover, the effect of simultaneous implementation of expansionary–contractionary policies depends on how they are combined.
The role of foreign affiliate productivity in the integration strategies of multinational firms
Authors: Han Jae‐Joon , Lee Hongshik , Lee Joonhyung
Published: November 2018

We study the role of foreign affiliate productivity in the operations of multinational firms. We use the panel data of Multinational Corporations (MNCs) headquartered in South Korea during 2006–2013 and exploit the significant variation in affiliate productivity and its operation. With other variables held constant, including the parent firm or affiliate fixed effects, we find that a more (less) productive affiliate exports less (more) to the parent and sells more (less) to other unaffiliated entities. We then provide a possible theoretical scenario that is based on the MNC's optimal integration strategy literature. By allowing foreign affiliates to have varying productivity levels, the model bears predictions consistent with the empirical findings.