bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decline of Real Love and Rise of Virtual Love: Love in Asia
Authors: Yamada Masahiro
Published: March 2017

In Japan, marriage rates have declined since 1980, and interest in romantic relationships has declined in the 21st century. This article shows, mainly based on the official statistics and surveys, that (i) people in contemporary Japanese society have become less willing to get married or even date; (ii) various forms of virtual love have emerged; and (iii) they have spread in East Asian countries in general. Marriage stems from romantic relationships. Simultaneously, it brings with it new economic life. In Japan and other East Asian countries there is an unwritten norm that marriage should be part of economic life. Therefore, satisfying romantic emotions outside real love and marriage is accepted.
The Role of Lumber Networks in Forest Devastation: Economic Sociology of Rural Forest Household Business in Japan
Authors: Ohkura Suehisa
Published: March 2017

In this article, I utilize the perspectives of economic sociology to examine the structural background of forest devastation in Japan. First, I explore the factors behind cited problems for the forestry industry and demonstrate that expanded imports of inexpensively priced foreign‐sourced logs do not sufficiently explain those issues. On that basis, I then demonstrate that the concepts and analytical tools offered by economic sociology are essential to a full understanding of relevant problems. Next, to understand how the current crisis differs from that experienced by forestry households in the 1980s, I turn my focus to changes in the social networks that supported the trade in wood products. The crisis witnessed a transformation that involved disembedding sawmills from the traditional wood trading networks that had relied on cooperative ties with forestry households. Eventually, social relationships between forestry households and sawmills were severed and these households became unable to address their economic difficulties through their existing practices. Given that context, I then examine the contrasting economic behavior of sawmills and forestry households and demonstrate that exposure to global price competition forced forestry households into uncontrolled over‐cutting. Finally, I assert that economic sociology is better able to provide a more precise understanding of the true nature of the problems facing forestry in modern‐day Japan than conventional economics with its adherence to the useful but insufficient principles of market competition and economic efficiency.
Transforming growth factor β1 regulates the expression of CCN2 in human keratinocytes via Smad‐ERK signalling
Authors: Kiwanuka Elizabeth , Junker Johan PE , Eriksson Elof
Published: March 2017

Connective tissue growth factor (CCN2/CTGF) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) are important regulators of skin wound healing, but controversy remains regarding their expression in epithelial cell lineages. Here, we investigate the expression of CCN2 in keratinocytes during reepithelialisation and its regulation by TGF‐β1. CCN2 was detected in the epidermis of healing full‐thickness porcine wounds. Human keratinocytes were incubated with or without 10 ng/ml TGF‐β1, and signalling pathways were blocked with 10‐μM SIS3 or 20‐μM PD98059. Semi‐quantitative real‐time PCR was used to study CCN2 mRNA expression, and western blot was used to measure CCN2, phosphorylated‐ERK1/2, ERK1/2, phosphorylated‐Smad3 and Smad2/3 proteins. CCN2 was transiently expressed in neoepidermis at the leading edge of the wound in vivo. In vitro, CCN2 expression was induced by TGF‐β1 at 2 hours (7·5 ± 1·9‐fold mRNA increase and 3·0 ± 0·6‐fold protein increase) and 12 hours (5·4 ± 1·9‐fold mRNA increase and 3·3 ± 0·6‐fold protein increase). Compared with inhibiting the SMAD pathway, inhibiting the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway was more effective in reducing TGF‐β1‐induced CCN2 mRNA and protein expression. Inhibition of the MAPK pathway had minimal impact on the activity of the SMAD pathway. CCN2 is expressed in keratinocytes in response to tissue injury or TGF‐β1. In addition, TGF‐β1 induces CCN2 expression in keratinocytes through the ras/MEK/ERK pathway. A complete understanding of CCN2 expression in keratinocytes is critical to developing novel therapies for wound healing and cutaneous malignancy.
Distribution of the xeric clade species of Pitcairnioideae (Bromeliaceae) in South America: a perspective based on areas of endemism
Authors: Gomes‐da‐Silva Janaína , Amorim André Márcio , Forzza Rafaela Campostrini
Published: March 2017

Aim

The main goals were to assess the distributional concordance among taxa of the xeric clade of Pitcairnioideae (Bromeliaceae) to establish biogeographical units (i.e. endemic areas), and to use the results to identify conservation priorities.

Location

Geographical data were analysed between parallels −1° and −47° S and meridians 35°6′ and 80°1′ W, which includes the Andean region, the Chacoan subregion and the South American Transition Zone, and three global hotspots (Atlantic Forest, Cerrado and Tropical Andes).

Methods

Two methods were employed, parsimony analysis of endemicity (PAE) and endemicity analysis (EA), to search for the biogeographical congruence between endemic areas for 220 species. Two grid cell sizes (2° and 3°) and three criteria were employed to delimit the areas of endemism.

Results

The results of the PAE demonstrated eight candidate areas of endemism when applying a grid cell size of 2° and six areas of endemism with 3°. The EA optimization method, using a grid size of 2°, recovered six (consensus 75%) and four (consensus 5%) areas, and a size of 3° recovered eight (consensus 75%) and three (consensus 5%) areas. Based on consistent results of the three combined criteria and the congruence of areas of endemism, we delimited three biogeographical areas of endemism for the clade in the Chacoan subregion of South America. The following areas in Brazil were delimited: (1) south‐eastern Minas Gerais, (2) north‐eastern Minas Gerais, and (3) north‐eastern Goiás.

Main conclusions

Endemic species with congruent occurrence patterns were identified to propose primary biogeographical homologies and to highlight areas that should be prioritized for conservation of species in the xeric clade of Pitcairnioideae. Furthermore, we suggest that evolutionary and historical processes (adaptive radiation; glacial and interglacial period in the Quaternary), as well as ecological factors, could have induced the high diversification rates for this clade in South America.
Strong spatial‐genetic congruence between a wood‐feeding cockroach and its bacterial endosymbiont, across a topographically complex landscape
Authors: Garrick Ryan C. , Sabree Zakee L. , Jahnes Benjamin C. , Oliver Jeffrey C.
Published: March 2017

Aim

We analysed data from an insect host (Cryptocercus punctulatus) and its maternally‐inherited obligate bacterial endosymbiont (Blattabacterium cuenotistr. punctulatus) to address the following: (1) to what extent do these species exhibit cophylogenetic structure, (2) do the spatial‐genetic structures of these species differ, and (3) what is the relative importance of codivergence versus other events in explaining congruence, or instances of incongruence, between their molecular phylogenies?

Location

The southern Appalachian Mountains,USA.

Methods

We conducted fine‐scale population‐level sampling and screening ofDNAsequence variation in two mitochondrial genes from the host, and four genic or intergenic regions from the endosymbiont. Inferences were made using analyses that have the potential to identify isolated instances of cophylogenetic discord, uncover subtle differences in geographic locations of genetic discontinuities, and disentangle different evolutionary processes that contributed to observed patterns.

Results

The host and its endosymbiont showed similar phylogenetic and geographic patterns. Cophylogenetic analyses revealed that while topological discord is rare (and restricted within major clades), some instances are potentially non‐negligible. Assessments of spatial‐genetic structure showed that most abrupt breaks occur in the same locations, but they differ in strength, again underscoring some subtle discordance. The main process generating observed patterns was inferred to be codivergence due to host‐tracking; however, incomplete lineage sorting seems likely to have also played a minor role.

Main conclusions

Our overarching finding of strong congruence is reflected by broader‐scale cophylogenetic studies of relatedCryptocercusandBlattabacteriumtaxa. Accordingly, we suggest that members of this symbiosis may provide an excellent opportunity for investigating geographic scaling of processes that affect biogeographic patterns. However, fine‐scale sampling coupled with geospatial analyses detected rare and/or minor discordances that appeared to be localized within the most deeply dissected topographic regions of the southern Appalachian Mountains, and these warrant further exploration.
Evaluation of drug‐related problems in older polypharmacy primary care patients
Authors: Kovačević Sandra Vezmar , Miljković Branislava , Ćulafić Milica , Kovačević Milena , Golubović Bojana , Jovanović Marija , Vučićević Katarina , de Gier Johan J.
Published: March 2017

Aims and Objectives

Targeting older patients with predictive factors for drug‐related problems (DRPs) could make clinical medication reviews more cost‐effective. The aim of this study was to identify the number, type, and potential predictive factors for DRPs in older polypharmacy patients.

Methods

Community pharmacists performed clinical medication reviews and documented DRPs, types of interventions, and their implementation in older patients.

Results

Three hundred eighty‐eight medication reviews were analyzed, 964 DRPs (average 2.5 ± 1.9), and 1022 interventions (average 2.6 ± 2.0) were identified. The overall implementation rate of interventions was 70.1%, the highest was observed in interventions aiming to resolve the lack of therapy monitoring (86.8%). Patients with ≥12 medications had an increased risk of ≥5 DRPs (P < .001). Asthma was associated with lack of adherence (P = .002), lack of aspirin, statins, and proton pump inhibitors use with additional therapy needed (P = .002‐.004). Predictive factors for drug interactions were antihypertensive medications and/or medications with narrow therapeutic index (P < .05). Lack of efficacy was associated with diabetes (P = .006). Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs were risk factors for inappropriate drug selection (P = .002). Lack of monitoring was associated with hypertension (P = .013), whereas benzodiazepines (P < .001) and aspirin (P = .021) were overused.

Conclusion

Patients with asthma, hypertension, and diabetes and lack of statin, antithrombotic agent, and/or proton pump inhibitor use were associated with higher risks for DRPs.
The Esthetic and Psychologic Benefits of an Intraoperative Provisional Restoration
Authors: Walter Robert D. , Goodacre Charles J.
Published: March 2017

Objective

When multiple visible teeth are prepared, the prolonged treatment time may lead to patients needing a break that requires them to leave the operatory. Such a situation allows the patient to view their prepared teeth, a process that can be disconcerting to some patients.

Clinical Considerations

An intraoperative provisional restoration can be made by using a thermoplastic vacuum‐formed matrix of the patient's teeth that is filled with white‐colored impression material and then placed over the prepared teeth to form a provisional restoration.

Conclusions

The use of an intraoperative provisional restoration can be effectively used to cover prepared teeth while providing normal tooth morphology and facial appearance after preparation of visible teeth.

Clinical Significance

When visible teeth are prepared, an intraoperative provisional restoration can be used to cover the prepared teeth and prevent concerned patients from viewing their prepared teeth. (J Esthet Restor Dent 29:189–192, 2017)
Association between disease activity and quality of life in ulcerative colitis: Results from the CRONICA‐UC study
Authors: Panés Julián , Domènech Eugeni , Aguas Peris Marian , Nos Pilar , Riestra Sabino , Juliá de Páramo Berta , Cea‐Calvo Luis , Romero Cristina , Marín‐Jiménez Ignacio
Published: March 2017

Background and Aim

In ulcerative colitis (UC), the main goals of treatment are to control disease activity and normalize health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). In this study, we explored the relationship between disease activity (measured using the Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index [SCCAI]) and patient HRQoL (measured using the EuroQoL [EQ]‐5D‐5L).

Methods

A total of 199 patients with UC were followed for 6 months. At months 3 and 6, patients completed an online SCCAI. Within 2 days of completing the SCCAI, patients completed an at‐clinic EQ‐5D‐5L questionnaire and the treating gastroenterologist completed the SCCAI.

Results

A consistent and approximately linear relationship was identified between patient HRQoL and patient‐completed and physician‐completed SCCAIs. A lower SCCAI score corresponded to a higher EQ‐5D‐5L index value. Correlation between EQ‐5D‐5L index values and patient‐completed online SCCAIs was moderate (ρ −0.49; P < 0.001) and similar to that between EQ‐5D‐5L index values and physician‐completed SCCAIs (ρ −0.53; P < 0.001). A decrease in the EQ‐5D‐5L index was already observed at an SCCAI score of 2, commonly regarded as remission. A 1‐point increase in the patient SCCAI corresponded to an average change of −0.027 (standard deviation, −0.032 to −0.022) in the EQ‐5D‐5L index, whereas a 1‐point increase in the physician SCCAI corresponded to an average change of −0.030 (standard deviation, −0.036 to −0.025).

Conclusions

Health‐related quality of life measured using the EQ‐5D‐5L questionnaire is proportionally related to disease activity in patients with UC. In line with the treat‐to‐target objective in UC, complete control of all symptoms is required to achieve optimal improvement in patient HRQoL.
Imaging of Laser Therapy in Epilepsy
Authors: Nagae Lidia M. , Honce Justin M. , Nyberg Eric , Ojemann Steven , Abosch Aviva , Drees Cornelia N.
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

MR‐guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (MRgLITT) is an increasingly popular neuroablative method for the surgical treatment of epilepsy patients. This article intends to demonstrate the utility and pitfalls of imaging in the context of patient care with MRgLITT.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective review of the medical records and imaging database with six illustrative cases selected to demonstrate the use of imaging throughout patient management with MRgLITT in diverse clinical situations and pathologies. A review of the knowledge in the literature was applied to the relevant points discussed.

RESULTS

Imaging findings were described in the setting of laser therapy in nonlesional epilepsy, mesial temporal sclerosis, dual pathology, periventricular nodular heterotopia, and schizencephaly. Discussion of imaging principles, potential pitfalls, as well as its use in the patient work‐up and follow‐up, is shown.

CONCLUSIONS

MRgLITT is an alternative minimally invasive therapy for refractory epilepsy, which is becoming widely sought for. Imaging plays a crucial role prior to, during, and after the procedure.
Normative data on the diurnal pattern of the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale ratings and its relation to age, sex, work, stress, sleep quality and sickness absence/illness in a large sample of daytime workers
Authors: Åkerstedt Torbjorn , Hallvig David , Kecklund Göran
Published: March 2017

Self‐rated sleepiness responds to sleep loss, time of day and work schedules. There is, however, a lack of a normative reference showing the diurnal pattern during a normal working day, compared with a day off, as well as differences depending on stress, sleep quality, sex, age and being sick listed. The present study sought to provide such data for the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale. Participants were 431 individuals working in medium‐sized public service units. Sleepiness (Karolinska Sleepiness Scale, scale 1–9) was rated at six times a day for a working week and 2 days off (>90.000 ratings). The results show a clear circadian pattern, with high values during the morning (4.5 at 07:00 hours) and evening (6.0 at 22:00 hours), and with low values (3–4) during the 10:00–16:00 hours span. Women had significantly higher (0.5 units) Karolinska Sleepiness Scale values than men, as did younger individuals (0.3 units), those with stress (1.3 units above the low‐stress group) and those with poor sleep quality (1.0 units above those with qood sleep quality). Days off showed reduced sleepiness (0.7 units), while being sick listed was associated with an increased sleepiness (0.8 units). Multiple regression analysis of mean sleepiness during the working week yielded mean daytime stress, mean sleep quality, age, and sex as predictors (not sleep duration). Improved sleep quality accounted for the reduced sleepiness during days off, but reduced stress was a second factor. Similar results were obtained in a longitudinal mixed‐model regression analysis across the 7 days of the week. The percentage of ratings at Karolinska Sleepiness Scale risk levels (8 + 9) was 6.6%, but most of these were obtained at 22:00 hours. It was concluded that sleepiness ratings are strongly associated with time of day, sleep quality, stress, work day/day off, being ill, age, and sex.
Validation of a Multiplexed Gene Signature Assay for Diagnosis of Canine Cancers from Formalin‐Fixed Paraffin‐Embedded Tissues
Authors: Davis B. , Schwartz M. , Duchemin D. , Carl Barrett J. , Post G.
Published: March 2017

Background

Use of molecular‐based diagnostics for companion animals is impeded by availability of technology platforms, tissue acquisition requirements, and species‐specific reagents.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To validate a quantitative nuclease protection assay (qNPA) to simultaneously measure RNA expression of multiple genes in archived formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tumors from dogs.

Animals

All tumor biopsy samples were collected retrospectively from surgical biopsies and in the care of veterinarians.

Methods

Retrospective case series. A qNPA 96‐well ArrayPlate was built using 30 canine‐specific genes, 5 housekeeping genes, positive and negative controls with qualified gene‐specific oligonucleotides. Pearson's correlation, coefficient of variation (CV), and multivariate analysis were used to determine analytical performance using 40 FFPE dog tumors. Once validated, 70 FFPE dog tumors were analyzed for differences in gene expression using hierarchical clustering and analysis of variance of log transformed data. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed to correlate gene expression and protein expression in a subset of tumors.

Results

The assay was linear with decreasing sample input (R2 = 0.978), reproducible within and between 96‐well plates (r = 0.988 and 0.95, respectively) and between different laboratories (CV = 0.96). Hierarchical cluster analysis showed grouping of tumors by histogenesis and oncogenes. Significant differences were found between BCl2, E2F transcription factor 1, MDM2, COX‐2, MET proto‐oncogene receptor kinase, and other biologically relevant gene expression in tumor subtypes. Immunohistochemistry confirmed protein expression.

Conclusions and Clinical Implications

Because this technology works reliably on FFPE specimens, it can help expedite the broad introduction of multiplexed genomic information for improved diagnostics and discovery of new targets for therapies in veterinary oncology.
Inquiry‐Based Stress Reduction Meditation Technique for Teacher Burnout:A Qualitative Study
Authors: Schnaider‐Levi Lia , Mitnik Inbal , Zafrani Keren , Goldman Zehavit , Lev‐Ari Shahar
Published: March 2017

An inquiry‐based intervention has been found to have a positive effect on burnout and mental well‐being parameters among teachers. The aim of the current study was to qualitatively evaluate the effect of the inquiry‐based stress reduction (IBSR) meditation technique on the participants. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted before and after the IBSR intervention and were analyzed using the interpretative phenomenological analysis method. Before the intervention, the teachers described emotional overload caused by two main reasons: (1) multiple stressful interactions with students, parents, colleagues, and the educational system, and (2) the ideological load of their profession—trying to fulfill high expectations of performance and the manifesting educational values. Following the intervention, the teachers described a sense of centeredness and a greater ability to accept reality. They reported improvements in setting boundaries, thought flexibility, and self‐awareness. These improvements assisted them in coping with the complex and dynamic nature of their profession. These positive effects suggest that IBSR is an effective technique in reducing teachers' burnout and promoting mental well‐being.
The rice LysM receptor‐like kinase OsCERK1 is required for the perception of short‐chain chitin oligomers in arbuscular mycorrhizal signaling
Authors: Carotenuto Gennaro , Chabaud Mireille , Miyata Kana , Capozzi Martina , Takeda Naoya , Kaku Hanae , Shibuya Naoto , Nakagawa Tomomi , Barker David G. , Genre Andrea
Published: March 2017

The rice lysin‐motif (LysM) receptor‐like kinase OsCERK1 is now known to have a dual role in both pathogenic and symbiotic interactions. Following the recent discovery that the Oscerk1 mutant is unable to host arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, we have examined whether OsCERK1 is directly involved in the perception of the short‐chain chitin oligomers (Myc‐COs) identified in AM fungal exudates and shown to activate nuclear calcium (Ca2+) spiking in the rice root epidermis.

An Oscerk1 knockout mutant expressing the cameleon NLS‐YC2.60 was used to monitor nuclear Ca2+ signaling following root treatment with either crude fungal exudates or purified Myc‐COs.

Compared with wild‐type rice, Ca2+ spiking responses to AM fungal elicitation were absent in root atrichoblasts of the Oscerk1 mutant. By contrast, rice lines mutated in OsCEBiP, encoding the LysM receptor‐like protein which associates with OsCERK1 to perceive chitin elicitors of the host immune defense pathway, responded positively to Myc‐COs.

These findings provide direct evidence that the bi‐functional OsCERK1 plays a central role in perceiving short‐chain Myc‐CO signals and activating the downstream conserved symbiotic signal transduction pathway.
Dyslipidemia after pediatric renal transplantation—The impact of immunosuppressive regimens
Authors: Habbig Sandra , Volland Ruth , Krupka Kai , Querfeld Uwe , Dello Strologo Luca , Noyan Aytül , Yalcinkaya Fatos , Topaloglu Rezan , Webb Nicholas J. A. , Kemper Markus J. , Pape Lars , Bald Martin , Kranz Birgitta , Taylan Christina , Höcker Britta , Tönshoff Burkhard , Weber Lutz T.
Published: March 2017

Dyslipidemia contributes to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in pediatric transplant recipients. Data on prevalence and risk factors in pediatric cohorts are, however, scarce. We therefore determined the prevalence of dyslipidemia in 386 pediatric renal transplant recipients enrolled in the CERTAIN registry. Data were obtained before and during the first year after RTx to analyze possible non‐modifiable and modifiable risk factors. The prevalence of dyslipidemia was 95% before engraftment and 88% at 1 year post‐transplant. Low estimated glomerular filtration rate at 1 year post‐transplant was associated with elevated serum triglyceride levels. The use of TAC and of MPA was associated with significantly lower concentrations of all lipid parameters compared to regimens containing CsA and mTORi. Immunosuppressive regimens consisting of CsA, MPA, and steroids as well as of CsA, mTORi, and steroids were associated with a three‐ and 25‐fold (P<.001) increased risk of having more than one pathologic lipid parameter as compared to the use of TAC, MPA, and steroids. Thus, amelioration of the cardiovascular risk profile after pediatric RTx may be attained by adaption of the immunosuppressive regimen according to the individual risk profile.
Liberal and Conservative Values: What We Can Learn From Congressional Tweets
Authors: Jones Kevin L. , Noorbaloochi Sharareh , Jost John T. , Bonneau Richard , Nagler Jonathan , Tucker Joshua A.
Published: March 2017

Past research using self‐report questionnaires administered to ordinary citizens demonstrates that value priorities differ as a function of one's political ideology, but it is unclear whether this conclusion applies to political elites, who are presumably seeking to appeal to very broad constituencies. We used quantitative methods of textual analysis to investigate value‐laden language in a collection of 577,555 messages sent from the public Twitter accounts of over 400 members of the U.S. Congress between 2012 and 2014. Consistent with theoretical expectations, we observed that Republican and conservative legislators stressed values of tradition, conformity, and national security (as well as self‐direction), whereas Democratic and liberal legislators stressed values of benevolence, universalism, hedonism, and social/economic security (as well as achievement). Implications for the large‐scale observational study of political psychology are explored.
Role of prostatic fluid in cooled canine epididymal sperm
Authors: Hori T , Masuda T , Kobayashi M , Kawakami E
Published: March 2017

Contents

In this study, sperms collected from the right and left cauda epididymis were grouped into having canine prostatic fluid (PF) sensitization or not diluted with egg yolk Tris–fructose citrate extender, and stored at 4°C. The necessity of canine PF in cooled preservation was determined by elucidating the sperm quality after the storage. As a result, while there was no difference among all groups up to 48 hr of storage, after storage for 96 hr and more, a significantly lower sperm motility was observed in the group without being sensitized to PF than the groups with being sensitized to PF (p < .05, p < .01). Although sperm abnormality increased in all groups with increased storage time, the group without being sensitized to PF showed significantly higher sperm abnormality than did the groups with being sensitized to PF after storage for 24 hr and more (p < .01). From these findings, we concluded that PF was necessary for the cooled preservation of the canine sperm because these sperms were protected from any effects of low temperatures by being sensitized to PF.
Rainfall variability, rainfed agriculture and degree of human marginality in North Guanajuato, Mexico
Authors: Granados Rebeca , Soria Jesus , Cortina Moises
Published: March 2017

Mexico has a heterogeneous climate due to its geographical location. Half of the Mexican territory is dryland, mostly in the centre and north of the country, within which agriculture is the main activity in the primary production sector. At present, climate variability has a strong impact on Mexican agriculture. This study analysed rainfall variability, its impact on the agricultural productivity in terms of harvested quantity and productivity of 1996‐2014, and in parallel, the role that socioeconomic development plays on the well‐being of the population who live in areas with rainfed agriculture and a semi‐dry climate. The data obtained were analysed with the Statistical Analysis System. A positive correlation was found between rainfall and productivity (r = 0.76 for maize; r = 0.711 for beans). Rainfall variations therefore have a great impact on agricultural productivity, on food security and on the economy. Besides production losses, a parallel consequence is marginalization of the population because producers' income is increasingly reduced due to smaller crop volumes.
The effect of prefreeze rejuvenation on postthaw storage of red blood cells in AS‐3 and SAGM
Authors: Lelkens Charles C.M. , Lagerberg Johan W.M. , de Korte Dirk
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

We investigated whether improving the metabolic status of red blood cell concentrates before freezing could extend the postthaw shelf life beyond 14 days while still meeting the requirements for hemolysis (0.8%) and total adenylate (>82% of original values).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

At Day 8 after collection, four leukoreduced red blood cell concentrates in saline‐adenine‐glucose‐mannitol (SAGM) were pooled, mixed, and split (n = 4). Of these concentrates, two were rejuvenated in Rejuvesol. In addition, two leukoreduced red blood cell concentrates in phosphate‐adenine‐glucose‐guanosine‐gluconate‐mannitol (PAGGGM) were pooled, mixed, and split at Day 8 after collection (n = 4). All concentrates were glycerolized, frozen, and stored for at least 2 weeks at −80°C. After thawing and deglycerolization, from each pair, one red blood cell concentrate was resuspended in SAGM, and one was suspended in AS‐3. During postthaw storage at 2 to 6°C for 35 days, all concentrates were sampled weekly and analyzed for hematologic, metabolic, and morphologic parameters.

RESULTS

Both Rejuvesol and PAGGGM treatment produced increased adenosine triphosphate and total adenylate and 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate levels compared with untreated red blood cell concentrates. Regardless of prefreeze Rejuvesol or PAGGGM treatment, postthaw hemolysis remained below 0.8% during 7 days in SAGM and during 35 days in AS‐3. At Day 35 of postthaw storage in AS‐3, total adenylate in nonrejuvenated red blood cell concentrates had decreased to 72% of the original values; whereas, in prefreeze Rejuvesol‐treated and PAGGGM‐treated concentrates, adenylate values were still were at 101% and 98%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Based on maximum allowable hemolysis of 0.8% and total adenylate content greater than 82% of the original value, thawed, prefreeze Rejuvesol‐treated or PAGGGM‐treated red blood cell concentrates can be stored for 35 days at 2 to 6ºC in AS‐3.
Magnetic resonance imaging features of leukoaraiosis in elderly dogs
Authors: Scarpante Elena , Cherubini Giunio Bruto , de Stefani Alberta , Taeymans Olivier
Published: March 2017

Leukoaraiosis is a descriptive term used to designate bilateral, symmetrical, white matter lesions identified in brains of elderly human patients. These lesions are isointense to normal in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T1‐weighted pulse sequences, non‐contrast enhancing, and hyperintense in T2‐weighted and FLAIR pulse sequences. Pathophysiologic mechanisms for leukoaraiosis remain incompletely understood; however, an ischemic origin is currently being favored. Age‐related changes, such as brain atrophy, ventricular enlargement, and well‐demarcated sulci, have also been previously described in dogs over 9 years of age. Objectives of this retrospective case series study were to describe MRI features of leukoaraiosis and brain atrophy in a group of elderly dogs. The Dick White Referrals MRI database between October 2009 and April 2016 was reviewed. Dogs with bilaterally symmetrical periventricular areas of T2 and FLAIR hyperintensity compatible with leukoaraiosis, and older than 9 years, were included. Fourteen dogs met the inclusion criteria, with a total of 18 MRI studies available for review. Median age for sampled dogs was 13 years. Ten dogs had MRI signs of concurrent brain atrophy; one of them had signs of brain atrophy before leukoaraiotic changes could be identified. In those cases where serial MRIs were available, progressive reduction of interthalamic adhesion thickness was observed. The current study introduces leukoaraiosis as a descriptive term for the MRI sign of bilaterally symmetrical, periventricular T2, and FLAIR hyperintensities in brains of elderly dogs. Future studies are needed to determine pathophysiologic mechanisms for this MRI sign.
A Comparison Of Students In Physical Education and Sports College and The Students In Other Departments In Terms Of Problem Solving Skills
Authors: Görücü Alpaslan , Cantav Erkan
Published: March 2017

In this research, it is aimed to analyze the problem solving skills of university students in terms of different variables and to analyze the differences among the levels of perceived problem solving skill of the students of Physical Education and Sports College and other branch students. The sample consists of the university students from the School of Physical Education and Sports (128) and from the Department of Tourism and Hotel Management (104) from the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences Department (162), summing up 394 students (nfemale=193, nmale=201) in total, based on the simple random sampling method. "Personal Information Form" and "Problem Solving Inventory (PSI)" were used as data collection tools. The T-test and One-Way ANOVA were used for normal distribution and LSD Test was used for determining the differences across groups. When the data were analyzed in terms of the variables of the study, it was found that a significant difference between the gender variable and problem solving skill in favour of males although there was no statistically significant difference between the problem solving skills and the place of birth of the students and the number of family members. It was found a significant difference between the students from School of Physical Education Sports and Department, students from Tourism and Hotel Management Department and students from the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences Department in favour of the students from The Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences Department. Based on the findings of the research; Problem-solving skills of the students of the Physical Education and Sports College were found to be lower than the other departments.
A biomimetic fly photoreceptor model elucidates how stochastic adaptive quantal sampling provides a large dynamic range
Authors: Song Zhuoyi , Juusola Mikko
Published: March 2017

Light intensities (photons s–1 μm–2) in a natural scene vary over several orders of magnitude from shady woods to direct sunlight. A major challenge facing the visual system is how to map such a large dynamic input range into its limited output range, so that a signal is neither buried in noise in darkness nor saturated in brightness. A fly photoreceptor has achieved such a large dynamic range; it can encode intensity changes from single to billions of photons, outperforming man‐made light sensors. This performance requires powerful light adaptation, the neural implementation of which has only become clear recently. A computational fly photoreceptor model, which mimics the real phototransduction processes, has elucidated how light adaptation happens dynamically through stochastic adaptive quantal information sampling. A Drosophila R1–R6 photoreceptor's light sensor, the rhabdomere, has 30,000 microvilli, each of which stochastically samples incoming photons. Each microvillus employs a full G‐protein‐coupled receptor signalling pathway to adaptively transduce photons into quantum bumps (QBs, or samples). QBs then sum the macroscopic photoreceptor responses, governed by four quantal sampling factors (limitations): (i) the number of photon sampling units in the cell structure (microvilli), (ii) sample size (QB waveform), (iii) latency distribution (time delay between photon arrival and emergence of a QB), and (iv) refractory period distribution (time for a microvillus to recover after a QB). Here, we review how these factors jointly orchestrate light adaptation over a large dynamic range.

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Molothrognathus brasiliensis sp. nov. (Acari: Caligonellidae) and the first report of Paraneognathus wangae for Brazil
Authors: Silva Darliane Evangelho , Siegert Monica Krauze , Brentano Andréia Cristhine , Nascimento Joseane Moreira , Johann Liana , Ferla Noeli Juarez
Published: March 2017

A new species of Molothrognathus Summers and Schlinger (1955) (Caligonellidae), Molothrognathus brasiliensis Silva, Brentano & Ferla sp. nov., is described and illustrated, and Paraneognathus wangae (Fan & Li, 1995) is reported for the first time from south of Brazil.
Incorporation of dopants in epitaxial SiC layers grown with fluorinated CVD chemistry
Authors: Stenberg Pontus , Janzén Erik , Pedersen Henrik
Published: March 2017

Fluorinated chemistry in chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of silicon carbide (SiC) with SiF4 as Si precursor has been shown to fully eliminate the formation of silicon clusters in the gas phase, making SiF4 an interesting Si precursor. However, before a fluorinated CVD chemistry can be adopted, the effect of fluorine on the dopant incorporation must be understood since dopant incorporation is of paramount importance in semiconductor manufacturing. Here, the authors present dopant incorporation studies for n-type doping with N using N2 and p-type doping with Al using TMAl in fluorinated CVD of homoepitaxial SiC. The precursors used were SiF4 as Si precursor and the source of F together with CH4 as C precursor. The authors find that it is possible to control the doping in SiC epitaxial layers when using a fluorinated CVD chemistry for both n- and p-type materials using the C/Si ratio as in standard SiC CVD. However, large area doping uniformity seems to be a challenge for a fluorinated CVD chemistry, most likely due to the very strong Si–F and Al–F bonds.
Study of device instability of bottom-gate ZnO transistors with sol–gel derived channel layers
Authors: Yapabandara Kosala , Mirkhani Vahid , Sultan Muhammad Shehzad , Ozden Burcu , Khanal Min P. , Park Minseo , Wang Shiqiang , Hamilton Michael C. , Chung Yoonsung , Kim Dong-Joo , Sk Mobbassar Hassan
Published: March 2017

In this paper, the authors report the device instability of solution based ZnO thin film transistors by studying the time-evolution of electrical characteristics during electrical stressing and subsequent relaxation. A systematic comparison between ambient and vacuum conditions was carried out to investigate the effect of adsorption of oxygen and water molecules, which leads to the creation of defects in the channel layer. The observed subthreshold swing and change in field effect mobility under gate bias stressing have supported the fact that oxygen and moisture directly affect the threshold voltage shift. The authors have presented the comprehensive analysis of device relaxation under both ambient and vacuum conditions to further confirm the defect creation and charge trapping/detrapping process since it has not been reported before. It was hypothesized that chemisorbed molecules form acceptorlike traps and can diffuse into the ZnO thin film through the void on the grain boundary, being relocated even near the semiconductor/dielectric interface. The stretched exponential and power law model fitting reinforce the conclusion of defect creation by oxygen and moisture adsorption on the active layer.
Using geospatial mapping to design HIV elimination strategies for sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Coburn Brian J. , Okano Justin T. , Blower Sally
Published: March 2017

Mapping the geographic dispersion pattern of HIV-infected individuals in a sub-Saharan African country reveals the challenge to eliminating HIV.
Poly(GP) proteins are a useful pharmacodynamic marker for
C9ORF72
-associated amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Gendron Tania F. , Chew Jeannie , Stankowski Jeannette N. , Hayes Lindsey R. , Zhang Yong-Jie , Prudencio Mercedes , Carlomagno Yari , Daughrity Lillian M. , Jansen-West Karen , Perkerson Emilie A. , O’Raw Aliesha , Cook Casey , Pregent Luc , Belzil Veronique , van Blitterswijk Marka , Tabassian Lilia J. , Lee Chris W. , Yue Mei , Tong Jimei , Song Yuping , Castanedes-Casey Monica , Rousseau Linda , Phillips Virginia , Dickson Dennis W. , Rademakers Rosa , Fryer John D. , Rush Beth K. , Pedraza Otto , Caputo Ana M. , Desaro Pamela , Palmucci Carla , Robertson Amelia , Heckman Michael G. , Diehl Nancy N. , Wiggs Edythe , Tierney Michael , Braun Laura , Farren Jennifer , Lacomis David , Ladha Shafeeq , Fournier Christina N. , McCluskey Leo F. , Elman Lauren B. , Toledo Jon B. , McBride Jennifer D. , Tiloca Cinzia , Morelli Claudia , Poletti Barbara , Solca Federica , Prelle Alessandro , Wuu Joanne , Jockel-Balsarotti Jennifer , Rigo Frank , Ambrose Christine , Datta Abhishek , Yang Weixing , Raitcheva Denitza , Antognetti Giovanna , McCampbell Alexander , Van Swieten John C. , Miller Bruce L. , Boxer Adam L. , Brown Robert H. , Bowser Robert , Miller Timothy M. , Trojanowski John Q. , Grossman Murray , Berry James D. , Hu William T. , Ratti Antonia , Traynor Bryan J. , Disney Matthew D. , Benatar Michael , Silani Vincenzo , Glass Jonathan D. , Floeter Mary Kay , Rothstein Jeffrey D. , Boylan Kevin B. , Petrucelli Leonard
Published: March 2017

Poly(GP) proteins are a promising pharmacodynamic marker for developing and testing therapeutics for treating
C9ORF72
-associated amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
RNA Sequencing Identifies New RNase III Cleavage Sites in
Escherichia coli
and Reveals Increased Regulation of mRNA
Authors: Gordon Gina C. , Cameron Jeffrey C. , Pfleger Brian F.
Published: March 2017

Ribonucleases facilitate rapid turnover of RNA, providing cells with another mechanism to adjust transcript and protein levels in response to environmental conditions. While many examples have been documented, a comprehensive list of RNase targets is not available. To address this knowledge gap, we compared levels of RNA sequencing coverage of
Escherichia coli
and a corresponding RNase III mutant to expand the list of known RNase III targets. RNase III is a widespread endoribonuclease that binds and cleaves double-stranded RNA in many critical transcripts. RNase III cleavage at novel sites found in
aceEF
,
proP
,
tnaC
,
dctA
,
pheM
,
sdhC
,
yhhQ
,
glpT
,
aceK
, and
gluQ
accelerated RNA decay, consistent with previously described targets wherein RNase III cleavage initiates rapid degradation of secondary messages by other RNases. In contrast, cleavage at three novel sites in the
ahpF
,
pflB
, and
yajQ
transcripts led to stabilized secondary transcripts. Two other novel sites in
hisL
and
pheM
overlapped with transcriptional attenuators that likely serve to ensure turnover of these highly structured RNAs. Many of the new RNase III target sites are located on transcripts encoding metabolic enzymes. For instance, two novel RNase III sites are located within transcripts encoding enzymes near a key metabolic node connecting glycolysis and the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Pyruvate dehydrogenase activity was increased in an
rnc
deletion mutant compared to the wild-type (WT) strain in early stationary phase, confirming the novel link between RNA turnover and regulation of pathway activity. Identification of these novel sites suggests that mRNA turnover may be an underappreciated mode of regulating metabolism.

IMPORTANCE
The concerted action and overlapping functions of endoribonucleases, exoribonucleases, and RNA processing enzymes complicate the study of global RNA turnover and recycling of specific transcripts. More information about RNase specificity and activity is needed to make predictions of transcript half-life and to design synthetic transcripts with optimal stability. RNase III does not have a conserved target sequence but instead recognizes RNA secondary structure. Prior to this study, only a few RNase III target sites in
E. coli
were known, so we used RNA sequencing to provide a more comprehensive list of cleavage sites and to examine the impact of RNase III on transcript degradation. With this added information on how RNase III participates in transcript regulation and recycling, a more complete picture of RNA turnover can be developed for
E. coli
. Similar approaches could be used to augment our understanding of RNA turnover in other bacteria.
Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis associated with fulminant hepatitis and multiorgan failure following primary Epstein–Barr virus and herpes simplex virus type 1 infection
Authors: Honsig Claudia , Beinhardt Sandra , Tomasits Josef , Dienes Hans Peter
Published: March 2017

We present a case of severe fatal hepatitis in a young patient presumably triggered by two ubiquitous viral diseases which occurred in close succession. This case is unusual because of the exceptional chronological sequence of primary Epstein–Barr virus and herpes simplex virus type 1 infection causing systemic immune dysregulation associated with rapidly developing liver failure and consecutive multiorgan failure. Clinical, laboratory and histopathological findings indicated the development of secondary haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis triggered by these closely succeeding viral primary infections.
Nurses' decision-making in ethically relevant clinical situations using the example of breathlessness: study protocol of a reflexive grounded theory integrating Goffman's framework analysis
Authors: Dunger Christine , Schnell Martin W , Bausewein Claudia
Published: March 2017

Introduction

Decision-making (DM) in healthcare can be understood as an interactive process addressing decision makers' reasoning as well as their visible behaviour after the decision is made. Other key elements of DM are ethical aspects and the role as well as the treatment options of the examined professions. Nurses' DM to choose interventions in situations of severe breathlessness is such interactions. They are also ethically relevant regarding the vulnerability of affected patients and possible restrictions or treatment options. The study aims to explore which factors influence nurses' DM to use nursing interventions in situations where patients suffer from severe breathlessness.

Methods and analysis

Qualitative study including nurses in German hospital wards and hospices. A triangulation of different methods of data collection—participant observation and qualitative expert interviews—and analysis merge in a reflexive grounded theory approach which integrates Goffman's framework analysis. It allows an analysis of nurses' self-statements about DM, their behaviour in relevant clinical situations and its influences. Data collection and analysis will be examined simultaneously.

Ethics and dissemination

Informed consent will be gained from all participants and the institutional stakeholders. Ongoing consent has to be ensured since observations will take place in healthcare institutions and many patients will be highly vulnerable. The study has been evaluated and approved by the Witten/Herdecke University Ethics Committee, Witten, Germany. Results of the study will be published at congresses and in journal papers.