bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation of functional mature peritoneal macrophages from healthy humans
Authors: Ruiz‐Alcaraz Antonio J , Martínez‐Banaclocha Helios , Marín‐Sánchez Pilar , Carmona‐Martínez Violeta , Iniesta‐Albadalejo Miguel Angel , Tristán‐Manzano María , Tapia‐Abellán Ana , García‐Peñarrubia Pilar , Machado‐Linde Francisco , Pelegrín Pablo , Martínez‐Esparza María
Published: November 2019

Macrophages play an important role in the inflammatory response. Their various biological functions are induced by different membrane receptors, including Toll‐like receptors, which trigger several intracellular signaling cascades and activate the inflammasomes, which in turn elicit the release of inflammatory mediators such as cytokines. In this study, we present a novel method for the isolation of human mature peritoneal macrophages. This method can be easily implemented by gynecologists who routinely perform laparoscopy for sterilization by tubal ligation or surgically intervene in benign gynecological pathologies. Our method confirms that macrophages are the main peritoneal leukocyte subpopulation isolated from the human peritoneum in homeostasis. We showed that primary human peritoneal macrophages present phagocytic and oxidative activities, and respond to activation of the main proinflammatory pathways such as Toll‐like receptors and inflammasomes, resulting in the secretion of different proinflammatory cytokines. Therefore, this method provides a useful tool for characterizing primary human macrophages as control cells for studies of molecular inflammatory pathways in steady‐state conditions and for comparing them with those obtained from pathologies involving the peritoneal cavity. Furthermore, it will facilitate advances in the screening of anti‐inflammatory compounds in the human system.
Ectopic germline recombination activity of the widely used Foxp3‐YFP‐Cre mouse: a case report
Authors: Wu Dan , Huang Qing , Orban Paul C. , Levings Megan K.
Published: November 2019

Regulatory T (Treg) cell‐specific deletion of a gene of interest is a procedure widely used to study mechanisms controlling Treg development, homeostasis and function. Accordingly, several transgenic mouse lines have been generated that bear the Cre recombinase under control of the Foxp3 promoter either as a random transgene insertion or knocked into the endogenous Foxp3 locus, with the Foxp3YFP‐Cre strain of mice being one of the most widely used. In an attempt to generate Treg cells that lacked expression of the insulin receptor (Insr), we crossed Foxp3YFP‐Cre mice with Insrfl/fl mice. Using a conventional two‐band PCR genotyping method we found that offspring genotypes did not correspond to the expected Mendelian ratios. We therefore developed a quantitative PCR‐based genotyping method to investigate possible ectopic recombination outside the Treg lineage. With this method we found that ~50% of the F1‐generation mice showed evidence of ectopic recombination and that ~10% of the F2‐generation mice had germline Cre recombination activity leading to a high frequency of offspring with global Insr deletion. Use of the quantitative PCR genotyping method enabled accurate selection of mice without ectopic recombination and only the desired Treg cell‐specific Insr deletion. Our data highlight the need to use genotyping methods that allow for assessment of possible ectopic recombination driven by the Foxp3YFP‐Cre allele, particularly when studying genes that are systemically expressed.
Pressure ulcer Cat. II‐IV incidence on the CuroCell S.A.M. PRO powered reactive air support surface in a high‐risk population: A multicentre cohort study in 12 Belgian nursing homes
Authors: Zwaenepoel Elien , Van Hecke Ann , Manderlier Bénédicte , Verhaeghe Sofie , Beeckman Dimitri
Published: November 2019

The primary objective was to study pressure ulcer (PU) category II‐IV (including suspected deep tissue injury and unstageable PUs) cumulative incidence and PU incidence density, in a 30day observation period, associated with the use of the CuroCell S.A.M. PRO powered reactive air support surface in nursing home residents at risk for PU development. Secondary objectives were to study (a) PU category I cumulative incidence and PU incidence density and (b) user (caregivers and residents) experiences and perceptions of comfort associated with the use of the support surface under study. A multicentre cohort study was set up in 37 care units of 12 Belgian nursing homes. The sample consisted of 191 residents at risk of PU development (Braden score ≤ 17). The cumulative PU incidence was 4.7% (n = 9). The PU incidence density was 1.7/1000 observation days (9 PU/5370 days). The experience and perceptions of comfort analysis revealed that the CuroCell S.A.M. PRO powered reactive air support surface was comfortable for daily use. The mode of action and the quietness of the pump function had a positive impact on sleep quality. Patient comfort and sleep quality are essential criteria in the selection of a support surface.
Acidic pH derived from cancer cells as a double‐edged knife modulates wound healing through DNA repair genes and autophagy
Authors: Rabiee Motmaen Shadi , Tavakol Shima , Joghataei Mohammad T. , Barati Mahmoud
Published: November 2019

Wound healing is a sequester program that involves diverse cell signalling cascades. Notwithstanding, complete signal transduction pathways underpinning acidic milieu derived from cancer cells is not clear, yet. MTT (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay, fluorescein diacetate/propidium iodide staining, and cell cycle flow cytometry revealed that acidic media decreased cell viability and cell number along with enhanced dead cells and S‐phase arrest in normal fibroblasts. Notably, the trends of intracellular reactive oxygen species production and lactate dehydrogenase release significantly increased with time. It seems the downregulation of Klf4 is in part due to acidosis‐induced DNA damage. It promoted cells towards S‐phase arrest and diminished cell proliferation. Klf4 downregulation had a direct correlation with the P53 level while acidic microenvironment promotes cells towards cell death mechanisms including apoptosis and autophagy. Noteworthily, the unchanged levels of Rb and Mlh1 indicated in those genes had no dominant role in the repairing of DNA damage in fibroblasts treated with the acidic microenvironment. Therefore, cells owing to not entering to mitosis and accumulation of DNA damage were undergone cell death to preserve cell homeostasis. Since acidic media decreased the level of tumour suppressor and DNA repair genes and altered the normal survival pathways in fibroblasts, caution should be exercised to not lead to cancer rather than wound healing.
Giant dielectric behavior of monovalent cation/anion (Li+, F−) co‐doped CaCu3Ti4O12 ceramics
Authors: Jumpatam Jutapol , Chanlek Narong , Takesada Masaki , Thongbai Prasit
Published: November 2019

Giant dielectric behavior and electrical properties of monovalent cation/anion (Li+, F−) co‐doped CaCu3Ti4O12 ceramics prepared by a solid‐state reaction route were systematically investigated. Substitution of Li+ and F− led to a significantly enlarged mean grain size. A reduced loss tangent (tanδ ~0.06) with the retainment of an ultra‐high dielectric permittivity (ε′ ~7.7‐8.8 × 104) was achieved in the co‐doped ceramics, while the breakdown electric field and nonlinear coefficient of CaCu3Ti4O12 ceramics were increased by co‐doping with (Li+, F−). The variations in nonlinear electrical properties and giant dielectric response, as well as the dielectric relaxation, were well explained by the Maxwell‐Wagner polarization model for an electrically heterogeneous microstructure, in which a Schottky barrier height at the grain boundaries (GBs) was formed. ε′ was closely correlated to the GB capacitance. Significantly decreased tanδ value and enhanced nonlinear properties were related to a significant increase in the GB resistance, which was attributed to the significantly increased potential barrier height and conduction activation energy at the GBs. The semiconducting nature of the grains was also studied using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and found to originate from the presence of Cu+ and Ti3+ ions.
Rain forest shifts through time and riverine barriers shaped the diversification of South American terrestrial pit vipers (Bothrops jararacussu species group)
Authors: Dal Vechio Francisco , Prates Ivan , Grazziotin Felipe G. , Zaher Hussam , Graboski Roberta , Rodrigues Miguel T.
Published: November 2019

Aim

To investigate (a) historical biogeographical connections and species interchange among rain forest habitats and (b) the role of riverine barriers on population divergence and speciation in the Neotropical region.

Location

Amazonia and Atlantic Forest in South America.

Taxon

Bothrops jararacussu species group (Serpentes: Viperidae).

Methods

We inferred phylogenetic relationships within Bothrops with an emphasis on the jararacussu species group under a Bayesian framework based on six molecular loci. We also used genetic coalescent simulations and approximate Bayesian computation to infer historical demography within the jararacussu group based on tests of alternative scenarios.

Results

We found the jararacussu species group to be monophyletic. The Atlantic Forest species B. pirajai and B. muriciensis were inferred nested within this group, closely related to B. jararacussu, confirming that Atlantic Forest species form a clade. The historical demographic analyses support vicariant separation between populations of B. brazili north and south of the Amazon River during the Miocene–Pliocene border, as well as colonization of the Atlantic Forest by a northern Amazonian ancestor in the Pleistocene.

Main Conclusion

The evolutionary history of the jararacussu species group sheds light on the dynamism of Neotropical rain forests over time, with at least one event of forest expansion leading to faunal interchange between Amazonian and Atlantic forests in the Pleistocene. Moreover, tests of alternative demographic scenarios suggest that the populations of B. brazili from north and south of the Amazon River originated from a vicariant event during the Miocene–Pliocene border, in agreement with the proposed age of establishment of the modern Amazon River drainage. Our results also have taxonomic implications for these medically important venomous snakes, supporting unrecognized diversity at the species level.
Exploring the learning effectiveness of financial literacy from the microworld perspective: Evidence from the simulated transactional interactive concurrent system
Authors: Liu Chiung‐Wen , Ho Li‐An , Chueh Ting‐Yu
Published: November 2019

Because the microworld can create a learning environment that allows learners to interact with the real world, the view of the microworld has been widely used in education and training. In this study, the simulated transactional interactive concurrent system (STICS) was used to provide an environment that simulates the stock market trading of the Taiwan Stock Exchange; the goal is to explore the effectiveness of using STICS in enhancing the financial literacy of students. This study adopts a quasi‐experimental design approach and divides students into two groups. The intervention group was made up of 42 students who learned financial knowledge aided by STICS, with a comparison group consisting of 43 students who learned with traditional lecturing and dictating methods. The study found that learners who used the STICS as an aid to learn financial knowledge had significantly better learning effectiveness than those who did not use STICS, in terms of motivation, attitude, and achievement. The intervention group also made significant improvements in average scores in learning motivation and achievement after 8 weeks of experimental teaching and learning.
14‐3‐3ζ binds to and stabilizes phospho‐beclin 1S295 and induces autophagy in hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Tang Yufu , Zhang Yibing , Liu Shupeng , Sun Zhongyi , Wang Chunhui , Li Longfei , Zhou Wenping , Cheng Shuqun
Published: November 2019

Data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) indicate that the expression levels of 14‐3‐3ζ and beclin 1 (a key molecule involved in cellular autophagy) are up‐regulated and positively correlated with each other (R = .5, P < .05) in HCC tissues. Chemoresistance developed in hepatoma cancer cells is associated with autophagy initiation. This study aimed to explore 14‐3‐3ζ’s role in regulating autophagy in HCC cells, with a focus on beclin 1. The co‐localization of 14‐3‐3ζ and beclin 1 was detectable in primary HCC tissues. To simulate in vivo tumour microenvironment (hypoxia), CSQT‐2 and HCC‐LM3 cells were exposed to 2% oxygen for 24 hours. The protein levels of 14‐3‐3ζ and phospho‐beclin 1S295 peaked at 12 hours following hypoxia. Meanwhile, the strongest autophagy flux occurred: LC3II was increased, and p62 was decreased significantly. By sequencing the coding area of BECN 1 gene of CSQT‐2 and HCC‐LM3 cells, we found that the predicted translational products of BECN 1 gene contained RLPS295VP (R, arginine; L, leucine; P, proline; S, serine; V, valine), a classic 14‐3‐3ζ binding motif. CO‐IP results confirmed that 14‐3‐3ζ bound to beclin 1, and this connection was markedly weakened when S295 was mutated into A295 (alanine). Further, 14‐3‐3ζ overexpression prevented phospho‐beclin 1S295 from degradation and enhanced its binding to VPS34, whilst its knockdown accelerated the degradation. Additionally, 14‐3‐3ζ enhanced the chemoresistance of HCC cells to cis‐diammined dichloridoplatium by activating autophagy. Our work reveals that 14‐3‐3ζ binds to and stabilizes phospho‐beclin 1S295 and induces autophagy in HCC cells to resist chemotherapy.
Review of non‐invasive vulvovaginal rejuvenation
Authors: Photiou L. , Lin M.J. , Dubin D.P. , Lenskaya V. , Khorasani H.
Published: November 2019

Vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) or genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) may affect up to 90% of menopausal women. Features include vulvovaginal atrophy, vulvovaginal laxity, vulvovaginal dryness and irritation, dyspareunia, anorgasmia and urinary symptoms. The vulva, vagina and bladder are oestrogen‐responsive tissues, but oestrogen replacement therapy is not possible in women who have hormone‐responsive cancers or normal oestrogen levels. Therefore, there is a role for alternative treatments. To date, three non‐surgical energy‐based therapies have been proposed: fractional microablative CO2 laser, erbium:YAG laser and temperature‐controlled radiofrequency (RF). Our objective was to assess the available evidence for the safety and efficacy of erbium:YAG laser, microablative fractional CO2 laser and RF in the treatment of VVA/GSM. The authors reviewed the current published literature evaluating these therapies. All three therapies appear safe; however, all the studies were uncontrolled and used different protocols and outcome measurements. Therefore, comparison of treatments is difficult. It appears that there is more evidence in favour of the CO2 laser than the erbium:YAG laser. Both lasers have more evidence than RF. In conclusion, microablative CO2 laser, erbium:YAG laser and RF may be offered to patients suffering from VVA/GSM as an alternative or adjunct to conventional therapies. Further well‐conducted controlled studies are needed.
Long‐term stainability of interim prosthetic materials in acidic/staining solutions
Authors: Bitencourt Sandro B. , Kanda Roberta Y. , de Freitas Jorge Caroline , Barão Valentim A. R. , Sukotjo Cortino , Wee Alvin G. , Goiato Marcelo C. , Pesqueira Aldiéris A.
Published: November 2019

Objective

To evaluate the long‐term color stainability, translucency, and contrast ratio (CR) of different resins used to fabricate interim prostheses after immersion in acidic/staining solutions.

Materials and Methods

A total of 160 specimens were divided into 16 groups (n = 10) according to the material (heat‐polymerized acrylic resin [HPAR], auto‐polymerized acrylic resin [APR], nanoparticulated bis‐acrylic resin [BR], and prefabricated poly(methyl methacrylate) block for CAD/CAM [CADR]) and immersion solutions (artificial saliva, cola beverage, coffee, and red wine). A spectrophotometer was used before and after each immersion period (7, 14, 28, 90, and 180 days). Color differences (CIEDE2000 and CIELab) were calculated. A three‐way repeated‐measures analysis of variance and Bonferroni test (α = .05) were used.

Results

After 180 days, the APR presented the highest value for coffee and the CADR presented the smallest value for the cola (P < .001). For the CR, the highest values were obtained at 180 days for BR in coffee (1.35) and wine (1.18) (P < .001). Higher translucency parameters were obtained in the BR and CADR in the initial, 14, 28, and 90 days (P < .001).

Conclusions

From the greatest to the smallest staining potential, the solutions were classified as: wine > coffee > cola beverage > saliva, while for the materials as: APR > BR > HPAR > CADR.

Clinical Significance

The knowledge of the long‐term optical behavior of interim prosthetic materials is important for clinicians to decide which material to use to match the dietary intake of their patients and their esthetic demands. Prefabricated blocks for CAD/CAM systems have been shown to maintaining their optical characteristics even after a long period of immersion in acidic/staining solutions.
Development and validation of a prognostic nomogram to predict survival in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer receiving second‐line palliative chemotherapy
Authors: Hsu Chih‐Chung , Liu Keng‐Hao , Chang Pei‐Hung , Chen Ping‐Tsung , Hung Chia‐Yen , Hsueh Shun‐Wen , Yeh Kun‐Yun , Chen Yen‐Yang , Lu Chang‐Hsien , Hung Yu‐Shin , Chou Wen‐Chi
Published: November 2019

Background and Aim

Given that a wide variation in tumor response rates and survival times suggests heterogeneity among the patients with advanced pancreatic cancer (APC) who underwent second‐line (L2) chemotherapy, it is a challenge in clinical practice to identify patients who will receive the most benefit from L2 treatment.

Methods

We selected 183 APC patients who received L2 palliative chemotherapy between 2010 and 2016 from a medical center as the development cohort. A Cox proportional hazard model was used to identify the prognostic factors and construct the nomogram. An independent cohort of 166 patients from three other hospitals was selected for external validation.

Results

The nomogram was based on eight independent prognostic factors from the multivariate Cox model: sex, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, reason for first‐line treatment discontinuation, duration of first‐line treatment, neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, tumor stage, body mass index, and serum carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 levels at the beginning of L2 treatment. The model exhibited good discrimination ability, with a C‐index of 0.733 (95% confidence interval, 0.681–0.785) and 0.724 (95% confidence interval, 0.661–0.787) in the development and validation cohorts, respectively. The calibration plots of the development and validation cohorts showed optimal agreement between model prediction and actual observation in predicting survival probability at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years.

Conclusions

This study developed and externally validated a prognostic model that accurately predicts the survival outcome of APC patients before L2 palliative chemotherapy, which could assist in clinical decision‐making, counseling for treatment, and most importantly, prognostic stratification of patients.
Development and growth of the pectoral girdle and fin skeleton in the extant coelacanthLatimeria chalumnae
Authors: Mansuit Rohan , Clément Gaël , Herrel Anthony , Dutel Hugo , Tafforeau Paul , Santin Mathieu D. , Herbin Marc
Published: November 2019

The monobasal pectoral fins of living coelacanths and lungfishes are homologous to the forelimbs of tetrapods and are thus critical to investigate the origin thereof. However, it remains unclear whether the similarity in the asymmetrical endoskeletal arrangement of the pectoral fins of coelacanths reflects the evolution of the pectoral appendages in sarcopterygians. Here, we describe for the first time the development of the pectoral fin and shoulder girdle in the extant coelacanthLatimeria chalumnae, based on the tomographic acquisition of a growth series. The pectoral girdle and pectoral fin endoskeleton are formed early in development with a radially outward growth of the endoskeletal elements. The visualization of the pectoral girdle during development shows a reorientation of the girdle between the fetus and pup 1 stages, creating a contact between the scapulocoracoids and the clavicles in the ventro‐medial region. Moreover, we observed a splitting of the pre‐ and post‐axial cartilaginous plates in respectively pre‐axial radials and accessory elements on one hand, and in post‐axial accessory elements on the other hand. However, the mechanisms involved in the splitting of the cartilaginous plates appear different from those involved in the formation of radials in actinopterygians. Our results show a proportional reduction of the proximal pre‐axial radial of the fin, rendering the external morphology of the fin more lobe‐shaped, and a spatial reorganization of elements resulting from the fragmentation of the two cartilaginous plates.Latimeriadevelopment hence supports previous interpretations of the asymmetrical pectoral fin skeleton as being plesiomorphic for coelacanths and sarcopterygians.
Integration of nurses in general practice: A thematic synthesis of the perspectives of general practitioners, practice nurses and patients living with chronic illness
Authors: Aerts Naomi , Van Bogaert Peter , Bastiaens Hilde , Peremans Lieve
Published: November 2019

Aims and objectives

To explore the views of general practitioners, practice nurses and patients on interprofessional collaboration in general practice and to understand to what extent the nurse–doctor relationship meets their needs and expectations.

Background

To address future challenges of primary health care, there is a need for integrated interprofessional collaboration care systems with a patient‐centred focus. Worldwide, there is an integration of nurses in general practice. However, in a transitioning Belgian context little is known about the perspectives of three key stakeholder groups.

Design

The results of four qualitative descriptive primary studies were triangulated and a secondary analysis resulted in a thematic synthesis within a pragmatic research paradigm.

Methods

Primary data were collected through individual, semi‐structured interviews with 7 general practitioners, 19 practice nurses and 21 patients living with chronic illness in 26 primary care centres with different nurse integration levels. We conducted a secondary analysis for the thematic synthesis of the different stakeholders’ perspectives. This study was reported in accordance with the COREQ checklist.

Results

Four overarching themes were found as follows: vision and mission at general practice level, patient‐centred care, practice nurse role development and interprofessional collaboration. Interprofessional collaboration within general practice ensures better response to patient needs. Evolution of the practice nurse role to autonomous decision‐making can be facilitated by clear vision and mission, team communication, complementarity of responsibilities and trust‐based professional relationships.

Conclusions

The key for patient‐centred care in a well‐organised practice is a clear vision and mission and well‐defined task description for interprofessional collaboration. General practice is urging for systematic guidance for the sustainable integration of a practice nurse.

Relevance to clinical practice

Our study highlights opportunities and challenges to nurse integration in general practice from key stakeholders’ perspectives, which can inform other transitioning contexts.
Melatonin activates cell death programs for the suppression of uterine leiomyoma cell proliferation
Authors: Lin Po‐Han , Tung Yen‐Ting , Chen Hsin‐Yuan , Chiang Yi‐Fen , Hong Hui‐Chih , Huang Ko‐Chieh , Hsu Sung‐Po , Huang Tsui‐Chin , Hsia Shih‐Min
Published: November 2019

The circadian nature of melatonin has a protective effect on the progression of female reproductive cancers, including breast and ovarian cancers. However, the effect of melatonin on the growth of uterine leiomyoma is still unclear. In this study, we found that the growth of uterine leiomyoma ELT3 cells was reduced by treatment with melatonin. Treatment with melatonin increased the distribution of sub‐G1 phase and increased DNA condensation in ELT3 cells. Melatonin‐induced apoptosis and autophagy cell death progression were observed in ELT3 cells. Melatonin exerts a highly selective effect on primary normal human uterine smooth muscle (UtSMC) cells. The UtSMC cell cycle was arrested by melatonin treatment through up‐regulation of p21, p27, and PTEN protein expression, but melatonin did not further promote apoptosis program activation. Melatonin reduced cell proliferation in ELT3 cells underlying the activation of melatonin MT1 and MT2 receptors, which in turn down‐regulated the Akt‐ERK1/2‐NFκB signaling pathway. Melatonin reduced ELT3 tumor growth in both xenograft and orthotopic uterine tumor mice models. The extracellular matrix of the tumor was also reduced by melatonin treatment. Taken together, these results suggest that melatonin potentially plays a role in suppression of uterine leiomyoma growth.
Assessing the role of nocturnal core body temperature dysregulation as a biomarker of neurodegeneration
Authors: Raupach Arabella K. , Ehgoetz Martens Kaylena A. , Memarian Negar , Zhong George , Matar Elie , Halliday Glenda M. , Grunstein Ronald , Lewis Simon J.G.
Published: November 2019

The vast majority of patients with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder will develop a neurodegenerative α‐synuclein‐related condition, such as Parkinson’s disease or dementia with Lewy bodies. The pathology underlying dream enactment overlaps anatomically with the brainstem regions that regulate circadian core body temperature. Previously, nocturnal core body temperature regulation has been shown to be impaired in Parkinson’s disease. However, no study to date has investigated nocturnal core body temperature changes in patients with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder, which may prove to be an early objective biomarker for α‐synucleinopathies. Ten healthy controls, 15 patients with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder, 31 patients with Parkinson’s disease and six patients with dementia with Lewy bodies underwent clinical assessment and nocturnal polysomnography with core body temperature monitoring. A validated cosinor method was utilised for core body temperature analysis. No differences in mesor, nadir or time of nadir were observed between groups. However, when compared with healthy controls, the amplitude of the nocturnal core body temperature (mesor minus nadir) was significantly reduced in patients with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder, Parkinson’s disease with concurrent rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder and dementia with Lewy bodies (p < 0.001, p = 0.043 and p = 0.017, respectively). Importantly, this relationship was not seen in those patients with Parkinson’s disease without rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder. In addition, there was a significant negative correlation between amplitude of the core body temperature and self‐reported rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder symptoms. Changes in thermoregulatory circadian rhythm may be specifically associated with the pathology underlying rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder rather than simply that of α‐synucleinopathy. These findings implicate thermoregulatory dysfunction as a potential early biomarker for development of rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder‐associated neurodegeneration, and suggest that subpopulations with differing pathological underpinnings might exist in Parkinson’s disease.
Illuminating movement? Nocturnal activity patterns in chacma baboons
Authors: Ayers A. M. , Allan A. T. L. , Howlett C. , Tordiffe A. S. W. , Williams K. S. , Williams S. T. , Hill R. A.
Published: November 2019

Recent analyses have shown that typically diurnal primates may periodically exhibit some levels of activity at night. Despite this, there have been few studies that have explored whether diurnal primates living in temperate environments will extend their activity budgets to the nocturnal phase as a response to seasonal constraints. Using dual‐axis accelerometers, we explored whether chacma baboons (Papio ursinus; N = 3) in the western Soutpansberg Mountains, South Africa, responded to seasonally fluctuating levels of day length, lunar illumination, wind speed, precipitation and temperature by heightening or lowering nocturnal activity levels. Our results showed that chacma baboons engaged in low levels of activity at night throughout the year. Although baboons had heighted nocturnal activity as a response to shorter days, moonlit nights and lower temperatures, these responses were most likely due to disturbed sleeping patterns rather than more active movement. Nocturnal activity significantly dropped in a female baboon throughout the course of her pregnancy and remained low after giving birth suggesting that females with infants must increase resting. Our results compliment previous analyses which suggest that although diurnal primates may periodically be active at night, there is limited evidence for strategic use of the nocturnal phase even in highly seasonal environments.
Genetic evidence reveals male‐biased dispersal of the Omei tree frog
Authors: Wang W. , Li J. , Wang H. , Ran Y. , Wu H.
Published: November 2019

Sex‐biased dispersal, which influences species’ social organization, genetic structure and evolution, is an important life‐history event. Although sex‐biased dispersal in mammals and birds has been thoroughly studied, little is known about it in amphibians. In this study, we used eight highly polymorphic microsatellite loci and two mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) genes to infer patterns of dispersal of the Omei tree frog (Rhacophorus omeimontis). We found that the comparison between two types of markers showed higher FST values in mtDNA compared to microsatellites. Consistently, comparison of pairwise and overall FST values between the sexes revealed higher differentiation in females than in males. Furthermore, the inbreeding coefficient (FIS) and population gene diversity (HS) were lower in females than in males, whereas relatedness (r) was higher in females than in males. Females exhibited relatively higher correlation between genetic distance and geographical distance than males. Additionally, the mean assignment index (mAIC) was lower in males, whereas the variance of assignment index (vAIC) was higher in males. These evidences reflect higher genetic differentiation in females than in males, indicating male‐biased dispersal in the Omei tree frog. Considering the life history reported in this species, we discussed potential mechanisms driving the male‐biased dispersal in the Omei tree frog.
Agencement and Agency: If Gilles and Félix had met Stanley
Authors: Daniels John
Published: November 2019

The concept of the assemblage set out in Gilles Deleuze and Félix Guattari's A Thousand Plateaus is brought into dialogue with the notion of ethical agency found in the writings of Stanley Hauerwas. The discussion is structured around the process of the agent's narrative formation. Elements of complexity theory, in particular emergence, are adduced in order to explicate the points of difference between Deleuze and Guattari and Hauerwas, as are the contributions of those like Manuel DeLanda who have sought to further develop Deleuzean‐Guattarian ideas. The conclusion proposes disciple and Church as emergent forms structured by the Christ‐event conceived as an abstract machine.
Contemplating the One who Remains the Same: Augustine, Swinburne, and Psalm 102 on the Relation between Divine Immutability and Theological Reason
Authors: Michelson Jared
Published: November 2019

This article defends a classical doctrine of divine immutability by contending that the most influential objections lodged against it by theologians and philosophers such as Richard Swinburne–i.e. that divine immutability is speculative rather than practical, is philosophical rather than biblical, and fails to cohere with a ‘personal’ God who relates to creatures–are rooted in a particular construal of theological reason. I diagnose Swinburne’s account of theological reason with the help of Karl Barth’s interpretation of Anselm, and put forth a contrasting account of divine immutability, rooted in a distinct approach to theological reason, through a theological interpretation of Psalm 102, an analysis of the Creator/creature distinction, and an examination of Augustine’s De trinitate.
Serum pro‐inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory cytokines and the pathogenesis of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Jahan‐Abad Ali J. , Karima Saeed , Shateri Somayeh , Baram Somayeh M. , Rajaei Shima , Morteza‐Zadeh Parastoo , Borhani‐Haghighi Maryam , Salari Ali‐Akbar , Nikzamir Abdolrahim , Gorji Ali
Published: November 2019

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) as an experimental model of multiple sclerosis (MS) is characterized by demyelination, infiltration of inflammatory cells into the nervous system and dysregulation of serum inflammatory cytokines. We investigated the correlation of serum cytokines and other inflammatory markers with the EAE pathogenesis. After EAE induction, the levels of different serum cytokine/inflammatory mediators were measured. Furthermore, motor functions, myelination, and lymphocyte infiltration in EAE mice were also assessed. Our results revealed that the serum concentrations of T‐helper 1 (Th1) and Th17 cytokines, interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐1β, IL‐1α and prostaglandin E2 in EAE mice were significantly higher than controls. The ratios of pro‐ to anti‐inflammatory cytokines were different between the EAE and the control group. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between the IL‐6/IL‐10 ratio and the EAE severity, demyelination rate, and lymphocyte infiltration in EAE mice. Results indicate that the profiles of serum pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines might be useful as biomarkers for monitoring the pathological manifestation of EAE. Furthermore, evaluating the dynamic interplay of serum cytokine levels and the correlation with pathogenic mechanisms of EAE may provide diagnostic and therapeutic insights for MS and some other inflammatory disorders.
No sense of place: Geoscientisation and the epistemic erasure of geography
Authors: Cupples Julie
Published: November 2019

This article explores the question of geoscientisation and its consequences for the discipline of geography. By geoscientisation, I am referring to the ways in which geography, under conditions of top‐down managerial neoliberalisation, has been subject to a range of administrative (re)locations in colleges and faculties of science and engineering and to forced mergers with programmes and departments in the physical sciences, most notably geology, earth sciences and environmental sciences/studies. It argues for a greater understanding of the forms of epistemic erasure and other negative consequences that geoscientisation engenders, especially for critical human geographers who find themselves in such administrative arrangements.
Explanation in mathematics: Proofs and practice
Authors: D'Alessandro William
Published: November 2019

Mathematicians distinguish between proofs that explain their results and those that merely prove. This paper explores the nature of explanatory proofs, their role in mathematical practice, and some of the reasons why philosophers should care about them. Among the questions addressed are the following: What kinds of proofs are generally explanatory (or not)? What makes a proof explanatory? Do all mathematical explanations involve proof in an essential way? Are there really such things as explanatory proofs, and if so, how do they relate to the sorts of explanation encountered in philosophy of science and metaphysics?
Evaluating the effectiveness of a disaster preparedness nursing education program in Chengdu, China
Authors: Xia Rui , Li Sijian , Chen Bingbing , Jin Qiu , Zhang Zipeng
Published: November 2019

Objective

To develop and evaluate a disaster nursing preparedness training program to improve nursing students’ ability in disaster fundamentals, triage, and family preparedness when facing a disaster.

Design and Sample

An experimental study was applied using a pretest and post‐test control group design. Participants were randomly assigned to the experimental (n = 31) and control (n = 32) groups.

Measures

The program lasted 7 hr. All participants completed structured questionnaires at three time points. Results were compared between the two groups using Mann–Whitney U tests. Outcome measures were knowledge, skill, and attitude.

Results

Students receiving the program displayed greater increases in knowledge and skills related to disaster preparedness than those in the control group. One month after the intervention, the experimental group still had significantly higher levels of disaster knowledge and skill than the control group. There were no statistically significant differences over time in attitude measures.

Conclusions

This program enhanced students’ ability and the findings can serve as a basis for further developing public health education for all nurses. Chinese leaders of public health institutions and nursing administrators can create guidelines for PHN competencies and prepare the public health nursing workforce to be effective in disaster, preparedness, response, and recovery.
The value of anti‐rods and rings antibodies in Western China population: A retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zhai Jianzhao , Wang Lu , Huang Zhuochun , Hu Jing , Li Lixin , Zhang Junlong , Tang Honghu , Yang Min , Wu Yongkang
Published: November 2019

The study aimed to retrospectively investigate the clinical significance of anti‐rods and rings (anti‐RR) antibodies in antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) test samples of western China. Between January 2016 and November 2018, the laboratory data and clinical details of patients with positive anti‐RR antibodies were collected and analysed. The results showed that total of 197 227 patients tested, 109 453 patients presented with positive ANAs (55.50%), but only 107 patients with positive anti‐RR antibodies (0.10%), including 51 females and 56 males. Diagnose were established in 51 of 107 patients: 25 were hepatopathy (HCV 8/25, HBV 12/25); 13 were autoimmune diseases (AID); and 7 were renal insufficiency; 6 were chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We make the conclusions that anti‐RR antibodies have a low prevalence, and there is no gender difference. Anti‐RR antibodies exist other diseases besides hepatitis C, such as HBV, some autoimmune diseases, renal insufficiency and COPD, which we need further investigation.
Geometric consistency of principal component scores for high‐dimensional mixture models and its application
Authors: Yata Kazuyoshi , Aoshima Makoto
Published: November 2019

In this article, we consider clustering based on principal component analysis (PCA) for high‐dimensional mixture models. We present theoretical reasons why PCA is effective for clustering high‐dimensional data. First, we derive a geometric representation of high‐dimension, low‐sample‐size (HDLSS) data taken from a two‐class mixture model. With the help of the geometric representation, we give geometric consistency properties of sample principal component scores in the HDLSS context. We develop ideas of the geometric representation and provide geometric consistency properties for multiclass mixture models. We show that PCA can cluster HDLSS data under certain conditions in a surprisingly explicit way. Finally, we demonstrate the performance of the clustering using gene expression datasets.
“Left Behind?” Financialization and Income Inequality Between the Affluent, Middle Class, and The Poor
Authors: Hyde Allen
Published: November 2019

There is increasing scholarly evidence that financialization has contributed to rising income inequality, especially by concentrating income among the affluent and rich. There is less empirical research examining who is losing out to the affluent. This paper fills this gap by examining how three measures of financialization (finance, insurance, and real estate or FIRE employment; credit expansion; and financial crises) affect upper‐tail (measured as the ratio between the 90th and 50th income percentiles) and lower‐tail (measured as the ratio between the 50th and 10th income percentiles) income inequality. Using concepts from economic sociology and the social stratification literature, I develop a perspective that links financialization to income inequality by creating more unequal market incomes while simultaneously reducing redistribution and social transfers. I analyze disposable household income data (after taxes and transfers) from the Luxembourg Income Study (LIS) and other public sources like the OECD from 16 affluent nations between the years 1981 and 2011, and I use an unbalanced panel design due to LIS data coverage. I find that the relative incomes of both the middle class and the poor are hurt by financialization (strongest evidence tied to FIRE employment); however, relative incomes of the poor are especially sensitive to financialization.
The psychology of privacy in the digital age
Authors: Stuart Avelie , Bandara Arosha K. , Levine Mark
Published: November 2019

Privacy is a psychological topic suffering from historical neglect—a neglect that is increasingly consequential in an era of social media connectedness, mass surveillance, and the permanence of our electronic footprint. Despite fundamental changes in the privacy landscape, social and personality psychology journals remain largely unrepresented in debates on the future of privacy. By contrast, in disciplines like computer science and media and communication studies, engaging directly with sociotechnical developments, interest in privacy has grown considerably. In our review of this interdisciplinary literature, we suggest four domains of interest to psychologists. These are as follows: sensitivity to individual differences in privacy disposition, a claim that privacy is fundamentally based in social interactions, a claim that privacy is inherently contextual, and a suggestion that privacy is as much about psychological groups as it is about individuals. Moreover, we propose a framework to enable progression to more integrative models of the psychology of privacy in the digital age and in particular suggest that a group and social relations–based approach to privacy is needed.
Leprosy in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil: an integrated spatiotemporal approach
Authors: Ferreira Anderson Fuentes , Amorim de Sousa Eliana , Soledad Márdero García Gabriela , da Silva dos Reis Adriana , Corona Francesco , da Silveira Lima Mauricélia , Silva Nascimento Andrade Elaine , Ribeiro Filha Carmelita , Alves de Sena Neto Sebastião , Mendes Donato Isaac , Novaes Ramos Jr Alberto
Published: November 2019

Objective

To analyse the spatiotemporal patterns of leprosy occurrence in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil from 2001 to 2017.

Methods

Mixed population‐based ecological study with spatial and temporal trend analysis of epidemiological indicators based on new cases reported to the Information System for Notifiable Diseases of the Ministry of Health occurring in individuals residing in North and Northeast states of Brazil.

Results

A total of 396 987 new cases were analysed; 9.2% of these involved children <15 years of age, and 5.4% involved individuals with grade 2 disability (G2D). The Northeast region recorded 66.4% of the new cases. Most cases involved males between 15 and 59 years of age and of brown race/colour. The temporal trend showed a reduction in most of the indicators and study variables. The G2D rate did not have trends over time in the Northeast Region, in individuals 0–14 years of age, or in municipalities with ‘very high’ social vulnerability indexes. The spatial and spatiotemporal analysis showed the presence of hyperendemic foci with high detection risk involving municipalities in the states of Tocantins, Pará and Maranhão.

Conclusion

Leprosy in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil persists as a critical public health problem. Temporal and spatiotemporal patterns identified in this study confirm that leprosy remains epidemiologically relevant in vulnerable areas. Surveillance and control interventions are needed in municipalities with low detection in the general population, in children and in individuals with G2D, to reduce late diagnosis.
Relationship between physical activity level and psychosocial and socioeconomic factors and issues in children and adolescents with asthma: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Westergren Thomas , Berntsen Sveinung , Ludvigsen Mette Spliid , Aagaard Hanne , Hall Elisabeth O.C. , Ommundsen Yngvar , Uhrenfeldt Lisbeth , Fegran Liv
Published: November 2019

Review question/objective:

The first objective of this scoping review is to identify and map information about instruments used to measure psychosocial and socioeconomic factors associated with level of physical activity (PA) in children and adolescents with asthma that have been reported in quantitative literature, and to report on the construction and validation of these instruments. The second objective is to identify and map psychosocial and socioeconomic issues related to PA level reported in qualitative literature and gaps in the evidence on the relationship between psychosocial and socioeconomic factors and PA level in children and adolescents with asthma.

Specifically the review questions are as follows:

Which instruments have been used to assess the association between psychosocial and socioeconomic factors and PA level in children and adolescents with asthma in quantitative primary studies, and how has information about the construction, validity and reliability of these instruments been reported?

Which psychosocial and socioeconomic issues related to PA level in children and adolescents with asthma have been explored in qualitative primary studies?
Emergency department interventions for persons with dementia presenting with ambulatory care-sensitive conditions: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Temple Beverley A. , Krishnan Preetha , O’Connell Beverly , Grant Lyle G. , Demczuk Lisa
Published: November 2019

Review question/objective:

The objective of this scoping review is to examine and map, within existing literature, the characteristics of emergency department/urgent care interventions, strategies or contextual factors, implemented to reduce unnecessary hospitalization of people with dementia (PWD) presenting at the emergency department/urgent care with ambulatory care-sensitive conditions (ACSC).

More specifically, the review questions are:

What non-pharmacological interventions or strategies, including, but not limited to, screening, assessments, clinical pathways, appropriate referrals and sensory overload reduction, are used in emergency departments for PWD presenting with ACSC?

What are the characteristics and settings of these interventions, and how do they affect the disposition of PWD?

What contextual factors, including, but not limited to, staff education, staffing mix and levels, and alterations to the physical environment, exist in emergency department/urgent care?

What are the characteristics of these factors and the settings in which they are used?