bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are house sparrow populations limited by the lack of cavities in urbanized landscapes? An experimental test
Authors: Angelier Frédéric , Brischoux François
Published: February 2019

Current urban policies are associated with deep changes in urban structures, which may impoverish urban biodiversity. A major concern is the disappearance of nesting sites for wild vertebrate species living in urban areas. New urban structures without any cracks or cavities may especially preclude cavity nesters from breeding in cities and they may cause population declines. In that context, we experimentally investigated this question in an urban exploiter bird species (the house sparrow Passer domesticus), which is dramatically declining in most European cities. To test if the lack of cavities is limiting house sparrow populations in urban areas, we equipped 11 sites along an urbanization gradient with nest boxes and we then evaluated the rate of occupancy of these nest‐boxes. This urbanization gradient was characterized by very rural places (isolated farms) and moderately urbanized areas (town of medium size, i.e. 60 000 inhabitants). Surprisingly, rural nest boxes were more occupied than urban ones, suggesting that cavity availability is probably more constraining in rural areas relative to urban ones. Therefore, our study suggests that urban house sparrow populations are probably not constrained by a lack of nesting sites in medium size cities with urban designs similar to our city of interest (Niort, western France). This hypothesis definitely needs now to be tested in further urban landscapes (e.g. large cities and urban landscapes with other architecture and management policies).
Low lead one ratio predicts clinical outcomes in left bundle branch block
Authors: Loring Zak , Atwater Brett D. , Xia Xiaojuan , Axelsson Jimmy , Klem Igor , Nijveldt Robin , Schelbert Erik B. , Couderc Jean‐Philippe , Strauss David G. , Ugander Martin , Wieslander Björn
Published: February 2019

Introduction

We evaluated the association between a novel electrocardiographic (ECG) marker of late, rightward electrocardiographic forces (termed the lead one ratio [LOR]), and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), myocardial scar, and clinical outcomes in patients with left bundle branch block (LBBB).

Methods and Results

LOR was calculated in patients with LBBB from a derivation cohort (n = 240) and receiver operator characteristic curves identified optimal threshold values for predicting myocardial scar and LVEF less than 35%. An independent validation cohort of patients with LBBB (n = 196) was used to test the association of LOR with the myocardial scar, LVEF, and the likelihood of death, heart transplant or left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. The optimal thresholds in the derivation cohort were LOR less than 13.7 for identification of scar (sensitivity 55%, specificity 80%), and LOR less than 12.1 for LVEF less than 35% (sensitivity 49%, specificity 80%). In the validation cohort, LOR less than 13.7 was not associated with scar size or presence (P > 0.05 for both). LOR less than 12.1 was associated with lower LVEF (30 [20‐40] versus 40 [25‐55]%;
P = 0.002) and predicted LVEF less than 35% in univariable (odds ratio [OR], 2.2 [1.2‐4.1];
P = 0.01) and multivariable analysis (OR, 2.2 [1.2‐4.3];
P = 0.02). LOR less than 12.1 was associated with scar presence when patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy were excluded (OR = 7.2 [1.5‐33.2];
P = 0.002). LOR less than 12.1 had an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.53 ([1.05‐2.21];
P = 0.03) for death, transplant or LVAD implantation.

Conclusions

In conclusion, ECG LOR less than 12.1 predicts reduced‐LV systolic function and poorer prognosis in patients with LBBB.
The course of chronic itch in hemodialysis patients: results of a 4‐year follow‐up study of GEHIS (German Epidemiological Hemodialysis Itch Study)
Authors: Plewig N. , Ofenloch R. , Mettang T. , Weisshaar E.
Published: February 2019

Background

Chronic itch (CI) is a frequent symptom in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Previous studies demonstrated great impairments of general well‐being and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) as well as a higher mortality in those suffering from CI.

Objective

The German Epidemiological Hemodialysis Itch Study (GEHIS) is a representative cohort of HD patients in Germany. All patients were followed up 4 years later. The current analyses present data on the course of CI in HD patients, its associated factors including comorbidities, laboratory values and HRQOL.

Methods

We assessed sociodemographic data, routine laboratory values, comorbidities, HRQOL (SF‐12), depression and anxiety (HADS), sleep (duration and quality) and in those suffering from CI characteristics, intensity of CI and itch‐related quality of life (ItchyQoL). Those with CI were offered a dermatological examination and CI was classified according to the IFSI classification. Patients were asked if they had consulted a physician about CI.

Results

Of the patients who had suffered from CI in 2013 (n = 234), 90.5% (212) patients could be followed up. About 36.3% (n = 85) had died, 9.8% (n = 23) had received a kidney transplant in the meantime. A total of 52 HD patients still suffered from CI, in 52 CI had stopped. Those patients still suffering from CI (n = 52) reported a higher mean itch intensity, lower ItchyQoL, higher levels of anxiety and a lower mean sleeping time in 2013. On the other hand, those who did not suffer from CI anymore showed a significant increase of HRQOL compared to 2013. There was no significant difference in dialysis characteristics and laboratory values except for albumin. Only a minority of patients in HD had consulted a dermatologist because of CI (29.9%).

Conclusion

Our data demonstrate that CI is a persisting symptom in 50% of the HD patients and when it disappears HRQOL recovers. We confirm that CI is a disregarded symptom in HD patients.
Infectious agent detections in archived Sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) samples from British Columbia, Canada (1985–94)
Authors: Thakur Krishna K. , Vanderstichel Raphaël , Kaukinen Karia , Nekouei Omid , Laurin Emilie , Miller Kristina M.
Published: February 2019

In response to concerns that novel infectious agents were introduced through the movement of eggs as Atlantic salmon aquaculture developed in British Columbia (BC), Canada, we estimated the prevalence of infectious agents in archived return‐migrating Sockeye salmon, from before and during aquaculture expansion in BC (1985–94). Of 45 infectious agents assessed through molecular assays in 652 samples, 23 (7 bacterial, 2 viral and 14 parasitic) were detected in liver tissue from six regions in BC. Prevalence ranged from 0.005 to 0.83 and varied significantly by region and year. Agent diversity ranged from 0 to 12 per fish (median 4), with the lowest diversity observed in fish from the Trans‐Boundary and Central Coast regions. Agents known to be endemic in Sockeye salmon in BC, including Flavobacterium psychrophilum, Infectious haematopoietic necrosis virus, Ceratonova shasta and Parvicapsula minibicornis, were commonly observed. Others, such as Kudoa thyrsites and Piscirikettsia salmonis, were also detected. Surprisingly, infectious agents described only recently in BC salmon, Ca. Branchiomonas cysticola, Parvicapsula pseudobranchicola and Paranucleospora theridion, were also detected, indicating their potential presence prior to the expansion of the aquaculture industry. In general, our data suggest that agent distributions may not have substantially changed because of the salmon aquaculture industry.
The effect of spray drying conditions on physicochemical properties of encapsulated propolis powder
Authors: Baysan Ulaş , Elmas Feyza , Koç Mehmet
Published: February 2019

Herein we investigated the effects of homogenization rate, inlet, and outlet air temperatures on physical (moisture content, water activity, glass transition temperature, particle and bulk density, wettability, solubility, and color) and chemical (total and surface phenolic content, antioxidant activity and encapsulation efficiency) properties of spray dried encapsulated propolis. The moisture content of encapsulated propolis powder was ranged from 4.26 to 6.17% while, the water activity values of these were changed between 0.197 and 0.269. The moisture content and water activity of products was an upward tendency with increasing inlet air temperature and decreasing outlet air temperature. An increase in inlet air temperature and decrease in outlet air temperature led to an increase in the glass transition temperature which changed in range of 44.50 to 51.45°C. While the wettability time of encapsulated propolis powder was longer than 100 s, their solubility ranged from 82 to 95%. Propolis powder produced at high inlet and outlet air temperatures and low homogenization rate had higher antioxidant activity, total, and surface phenolic content. Encapsulation efficiency calculated based on total/surface phenolic content varied widely between 29.79 and 99.73%. Encapsulation efficiency results clearly demonstrated that the conditions of process variables were effective on the encapsulation process.

Practical Applications

Propolis is one of the valuable bee products due to its high phenolic content and antioxidant activity. In the current market, propolis is mostly presented as a food supplement in the form of liquid extract. Although the importance of propolis has been recognized by the food industry and consumers, the usage of propolis has been limited due to its bitter and unpleasant taste. Another limitation of propolis usage in food products is environmental factors and food process conditions due to easily loss of its antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds. Encapsulation technology could provide overcome these challenges and improve the usability and durability of propolis in food products as an ingredient. However, the success of an encapsulation process considerably depends on process conditions. Therefore the effects of the encapsulation process conditions of spray drying method on physicochemical properties of encapsulated propolis powder were investigated in this study.
Working conditions in hydrogen production: A social life cycle assessment
Authors: Werker Jasmin , Wulf Christina , Zapp Petra
Published: February 2019

Social impacts of novel technology can, parallel to environmental and economic consequences, influence its sustainability. By analyzing the case of hydrogen production by advanced alkaline water electrolysis (AEL) from a life cycle perspective, this paper illustrates the social implications of the manufacturing of the electrolyzer and hydrogen production when installed in Germany, Austria, and Spain. This paper complements previous environmental and economic assessments, which selected this set of countries based on their different structures in electricity production. The paper uses a mixed method design to analyze the social impact for the workers along the process chain. Appropriate indicators related to working conditions are selected on the basis of the UN Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. The focus on workers is chosen as a first example to test the relatively new Product Social Impact Life Cycle Assessment (PSILCA) database version 2.0. The results of the quantitative assessment are then complemented and compared through an investigation of the underlying raw data and a qualitative literature analysis. Overall, advanced AEL is found to have least social impact along the German process chain, followed by the Spanish and the Austrian. All three process chains show impacts on global upstream processes. In order to reduce social impact and ultimately contribute to Sustainable Development, policymakers and industry need to work together to further improve certain aspects of working conditions in different locations, particularly within global upstream processes.
Collagen fibrillar structures in vocal fold scarring and repair using stem cell therapy: a detailed histological, immunohistochemical and atomic force microscopy study
Authors: SVISTUSHKIN MIKHAIL V. , KOTOVA SVETLANA L. , SHEKHTER ANATOLY B. , SVISTUSHKIN VALERY M. , AKOVANTSEVA ANASTASIA A. , FROLOVA ANASTASIA A. , FAYZULLIN ALEXEY L. , STAROSTINA SVETLANA V. , BEZRUKOV EVGENY A. , SUKHANOV ROMAN B. , TIMASHEV SERGEY F. , BUTNARU DENIS V. , TIMASHEV PETER S.
Published: February 2019

Regenerative medicine opens new opportunities in the repair of cicatricial lesions of the vocal folds. Here, we present a thorough morphological study, with the focus on the collagen structures in the mucosa of the vocal folds, dedicated to the effects of stem cells on the vocal folds repair after cicatricial lesions. We used a conventional experimental model of a mature scar of the rabbit vocal folds, which was surgically excised with a simultaneous implantation of autologous bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) into the defect. The restoration of the vocal folds was studied 3 months postimplantation of stem cells and 6 months after the first surgery. The collagen structure assessment included histology, immunohistochemistry and atomic force microscopy (AFM) studies. According to the data of optical microscopy and AFM, as well as to immunohistochemical analysis, MSC implantation into the vocal fold defect leads not only to the general reduction of scarring, normal ratio of collagens type I and type III, but also to a more complete restoration of architecture and ultrastructure of collagen fibres in the mucosa, as compared to the control. The collagen structures in the scar tissue in the vocal folds with implanted MSC are more similar to those in the normal mucosa of the vocal folds than to those of the untreated scars. AFM has proven to be an instrumental technique in the assessment of the ultrastructure restoration in such studies.

Lay Description

Regenerative medicine opens new opportunities in the repair of the vocal fold scars. Because collagen is a main component in the vocal fold mucosa responsible for the scar formation and repair, we focus on the collagen structures in the mucosa of the vocal folds, using a thorough morphological study based on histology and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Atomic force microscopy is a scanning microscopic technique which allows revealing the internal structure of a tissue with a resolution up to nanometres. We used a conventional experimental model of a mature scar of the rabbit vocal folds, surgically excised and treated with a mesenchymal stem cells transplant. Our morphological study, primarily AFM, explicitly shows that the collagen structures in the scarred vocal folds almost completely restore after the stem cell treatment. Thus, the modern microscopic methods, and especially AFM are instrumental tools for monitoring the repair of the vocal folds scars.
Herpes Zoster in Pregnancy
Authors: Schafer Robyn , Davis Melissa , Phillippi Julia C.
Published: February 2019

Herpes zoster (shingles) is the reactivation of dormant varicella zoster virus in individuals who previously experienced varicella infection or vaccination. Herpes zoster can occur in pregnancy, although it is rare. This case report describes the clinical presentation and diagnosis of herpes zoster and reviews current recommendations for treatment. Preventative measures and the role of immunization are discussed in addition to clinical implications for intrapartum, postpartum, and newborn care to guide practitioners in caring for women experiencing or exposed to herpes zoster in pregnancy.
Multimodal imaging assessment and histologic correlation of the female rat pelvic floor muscles’ anatomy
Authors: Sheth Vipul R. , Duran Pamela , Wong Jonathan , Shah Sameer , Du Jiang , Christman Karen L. , Chang Eric Y. , Alperin Marianna
Published: February 2019

Pelvic floor disorders negatively impact millions of women worldwide. Although there is a strong epidemiological association with childbirth, the mechanisms leading to the dysfunction of the integral constituents of the female pelvic floor, including pelvic floor skeletal muscles, are not well understood. This is in part due to the constraints associated with directly probing these muscles, which are located deep in the pelvis. Thus, experimental models and non‐invasive techniques are essential for advancing knowledge of various phenotypes of pelvic floor muscle injury and pathogenesis of muscle dysfunction, as well as developing minimally invasive approaches for the delivery of novel therapeutics. The most widely used animal model for pelvic floor disorders is the rat. However, the radiological anatomy of rat pelvic floor muscles has not been described. To remedy this gap, the current study provides the first detailed description of the female rat pelvic floor muscles’ radiological appearance on MR and ultrasound images, validated by correlation with gross anatomy and histology. We also demonstrate that ultrasound guidance can be used to target rat pelvic floor muscles for possible interventional therapies.
Initial stages of development of the submandibular gland (human embryos at 5.5–8 weeks of development)
Authors: Quirós‐Terrón Luis , Arráez‐Aybar Luis‐Alfonso , Murillo‐González Jorge , De‐la‐Cuadra‐Blanco Crótida , Martínez‐Álvarez María‐Concepción , Sanz‐Casado José‐Vicente , Mérida‐Velasco José‐Ramón
Published: February 2019

The aim of this study was to determine the main stages of submandibular salivary gland development during the embryonic period in humans. In addition, we studied submandibular salivary gland development in rats on embryonic days 14–16 and expression in the submandibular salivary gland region with the monoclonal antibody HNK‐1. Serial sections from 25 human embryos with a greatest length ranging from 10 to 31 mm (Carnegie stages 16–23; weeks 5.5–8 of development) and Wistar rats of embryonic days (E) 14–16 were analysed with light microscopy. Five stages of submandibular salivary gland development were identified. The prospective stage (1), between weeks 5.5 and early week 6, is characterized by a thickening of the epithelium of the medial paralingual groove in the floor of the mouth corresponding to the primordium of the submandibular salivary gland parenchyma. At this stage, the primordium of the parasympathetic ganglion lies below the lingual nerve. The primordium of the submandibular salivary gland parenchyma is observed in rats on E14 in the medial paralingual groove with mesenchymal cells, underlying the lingual nerve. These cells are HNK‐1‐positive, corresponding to the primordium of the parasympathetic ganglion. The bud stage (2), at the end of week 6 in humans and on E15 in rats, is characterized by the proliferation and invagination of the epithelial condensation, surrounded by an important condensation of the mesenchyme. The pseudoglandular stage (3) at week 6.5 is characterized by the beginning of the formation of lobes in the condensed mesenchyme. The canalicular stage (4), between week 7 and 7.5, is characterized by the appearance of a lumen in the proximal part of the submandibular duct. The innervation stage (5) occurs during week 8, with the innervation of the submandibular and interlobular ducts. Nervous branches arriving from the parasympathetic ganglion innervate the glandular parenchyma. Numerous blood vessels are observed nearby. Our results suggest that submandibular salivary gland development requires interactions among epithelium, mesenchyme, parasympathetic ganglion and blood vessels.
MAPPING THE EVOLUTION OF ENERGY‐GROWTH NEXUS: SYNERGIES AND TRADE‐OFFS
Authors: Anwar Muhummad Azfar , Zhou Rongting , Asmi Fahad , Wang Dong , Hammad Ali
Published: February 2019

The study explores the intellectual structure, development and evolution of energy crisis and economic growth research through bibliometric analysis of research articles on energy‐growth nexus from 2000 to 2017 by using Citespace where Gephi is used to analyse the authors collaboration. The analysis incorporates 27,152 references cited by 344 authors, in 1165 articles and from 330 journals. The results of study quantitatively present the most cited articles, authors, countries, institutions and intellectual structure with data visualization in the knowledge domain of energy‐growth nexus. The study categorizes the major research areas in energy‐growth nexus research as carbon dioxide emission, electricity consumption, heterogeneous Panel, real income, renewable energy and financial development. The study discusses emerging trends which provide the future research fronts and intellectual development within the framework of energy‐growth nexus.
Leverage and the Cross‐Section of Equity Returns
Authors: DOSHI HITESH , JACOBS KRIS , KUMAR PRAVEEN , RABINOVITCH RAMON
Published: February 2019

Building on theoretical asset pricing literature, we examine the role of market risk and the size, book‐to‐market (BTM), and volatility anomalies in the cross‐section of unlevered equity returns. Compared with levered (stock) returns, unlevered market beta plays a more important role in explaining the cross‐section of unlevered equity returns, even after controlling for size and BTM. The size effect is weakened, while the value premium and the volatility puzzle virtually disappear for unlevered returns. We show that leverage induces heteroskedasticity in returns. Unlevering returns removes this pattern, which is otherwise difficult to address by controlling for leverage in regressions.
Soils from intercropped fields have a higher capacity to suppress black root rot in cassava, caused by Scytalidium lignicola
Authors: de Medeiros Erika Valente , Notaro Krystal de Alcantara , de Barros Jamilly Alves , Duda Gustavo Pereira , Moraes Marcele de Cássia Henriques dos Santos , Ambrósio Márcia Michelle de Queiroz , Negreiros Andreia Mitsa Paiva , Sales Júnior Rui
Published: February 2019

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the natural suppressive capacity of soils from forest, and monocropping and intercropping systems, against root rot, caused by Scytalidium lignicola, in a greenhouse experiment. We used soils from a tropical dry forest (FOR) and two intercropping and two monoculture systems. The first intercrop was maize and beans (CORNCOWP), and the second intercrop was cassava, pigeon peas and beans (CASPIGPCOWP). The first monoculture was beans, and the second was passion fruit. The intercropping soils showed a higher capacity to suppress black root rot in cassava than the monoculture because such soils were able to reduce disease severity by about 50%. Bean soil in the monoculture showed less microbial biomass carbon than in the intercrop, with means of 10.05 and 38.2 mg/kg, respectively. The higher density of bacteria and fungal populations, microbial biomass, urease and arylsulphatase activities correlated with a decrease in disease severity. Soils from the intercrops produced changes in soil quality, primarily in the population and density of microorganisms, enzymatic activities, total organic carbon and nutrients, reducing disease severity in cassava plants. These effects were validated by multivariate principal component analysis and showed three distinct groups: one FOR, one intercropping and one monocropping. The majority of vectors were in the direction of FOR and intercropping soils. We have provided some of the first data related to the beneficial effects of intercropping on the suppression of black root rot in cassava, which is validated through different attributes.
Does Quality of End‐of‐Life Care Differ by Urban‐Rural Location? A Comparison of Processes and Family Evaluations of Care in the VA
Authors: del Rosario Cindy , Kutney‐Lee Ann , Sochalski Julie , Ersek Mary
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Several studies have identified differences in end‐of‐life (EOL) care between urban and rural areas, yet little is known about potential differences in care processes or family evaluations of care. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between rurality of residence and quality of EOL care within the Veterans Affairs health care system.

Methods

This study was a retrospective, cross‐sectional analysis of 126,475 veterans who died from October 2009 through September 2016 in inpatient settings across 151 facilities. Using unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression, we compared quality of EOL care between urban and rural veterans using family evaluations of care and 4 quality of care indicators for receipt of (1) palliative care consult, (2) a chaplain visit, (3) death in an inpatient hospice unit, and (4) bereavement support.

Findings

Veterans from rural areas had lower odds of dying in an inpatient hospice unit compared to veterans from urban areas, before and after adjustment (large rural OR 0.73, 95% CI: 0.70‐0.77; P < .001, small rural OR 0.81, 95% CI: 0.77‐0.86; P < .001, isolated rural OR 0.87, 95% CI: 0.81‐0.93; P < .001). Differences in comparisons of other quality of care indicators were small and of mixed significance. No significant differences were found in family ratings of care in fully adjusted models.

Conclusion

Receipt of some EOL quality indicators differed with urban‐rural residence for some comparisons. However, family ratings of care did not. Our findings call for further investigation into unmeasured individual characteristics and facility processes related to rurality.
Clinical diseases in pet black‐tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus): a retrospective study in 206 animals
Authors: Thas I. , Wagner R. A. , Thas O.
Published: February 2019

Objectives

To describe the health disorders seen in captivity in 206 pet prairie dogs.

Materials and Methods

Review of medical records of pet prairie dogs that were presented to a veterinary clinic in the period January 2002 to December 2011.

Results

The most frequent diseases were respiratory (28.2%), dental (25.2%), integumentary (22.3%) and digestive (19.4%). The most common clinical disorders were rhinitis, elodontoma, hypothermia, gastrointestinal stasis, diarrhoea, obesity and gastrointestinal tympany.

Clinical Significance

This listing of clinical diseases will help clinicians focus their disease investigation and increase clinical awareness of prairie dog diseases. There was a high rate of poor or unsuitable husbandry and this was often associated with clinical disease. Of the diseases seen commonly in this study, only elodontoma has been previously reported as being common.
From cognitive dissonance to cognitive Polyphasia: A sociocultural approach to understanding meat‐paradox
Authors: Panagiotou Elisavet , Kadianaki Irini
Published: February 2019

Cognitive Dissonance Theory seeks to understand inconsistency by situating it within individual cognition. By doing so, it overlooks the role of the social context in the experience and management of inconsistency and dissonance and fails to capture the processes through which it is negotiated when it appears. On the other side, the cognitive polyphasia hypothesis together with a dialogical approach on Social Representations provide a socioculturally situated, process‐oriented understanding of inconsistency. In this paper, meat‐paradox, the phenomenon of simultaneously declaring love and respect towards animals and also consuming animals, mainly studied through Cognitive Dissonance Theory, is used in order to highlight the merits of a sociocultural approach to inconsistency. Four relevant empirical examples from interviews and focus groups with meat‐eaters and vegetarians in Cyprus are used to illustrate the approach. The examples illustrate how meat‐eaters manage dissonance in ways that exhibit coexistence of contradictory representations and ways of thinking. Three different modalities of knowledge coexistence are identified, as proposed by cognitive polyphasia researchers: displacement, selective prevalence and hybridisation. We discuss the importance of a sociocultural approach to studying paradoxes, the epistemological and methodological implications of such a theorisation and we suggest other life contexts in which such an approach can be applied.
Endoscopic laser‐ablation for the treatment of orthotopic and ectopic ureteroceles in dogs: 13 cases (2008‐2017)
Authors: Rogatko Cleo P. , Berent Allyson C. , Adams Larry G. , Weisse Chick W. , Bagley Demetrius
Published: February 2019

Background

Ureteroceles are a rare condition in dogs in which conventional treatments can result in substantial morbidity. Cystoscopic and fluoroscopic‐guided laser ablation (CLA) of ureteroceles can successfully relieve obstruction.

Objectives

To describe the technique and outcomes of attempting CLA for treatment of ureteroceles in dogs.

Animals

Thirteen client‐owned dogs that underwent CLA for treatment of ureteroceles.

Methods

Retrospective multicentered study. Medical records were reviewed in all dogs that underwent CLA for ureterocele(s). A laser was used to extend the opening of the ureteral orifice (UO) unless surgical conversion was necessary. Data collected included signalment, clinicopathologic data, imaging, procedural findings, complications, and short‐ and long‐term outcome.

Results

Thirteen dogs with 13 ureteroceles associated with 14 UOs resulting in ureteral obstruction were included. One ureterocele extended bilaterally. Treatment was initiated via retrograde cystoscopy (7 females), percutaneous perineal urethrocystoscopy (4 males), or percutaneous antegrade cystoscopy (2 males). Surgical conversion was necessary in 2 males. Ten of 14 (71%) UOs associated with the ureteroceles were ectopic. Thirteen of 14 had stenotic or imperforate UOs. No postoperative complications were noted. Preoperative incontinence or pollakiuria was present in 9 of 13 and 3 of 13 dogs and resolved in 8 of 9 and 3 of 3 dogs, respectively. Follow‐up imaging showed resolution of all ureteroceles and improved ureteral/renal pelvic dilatation. Median follow‐up time was 27 months (range, 3‐96 months).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Cystoscopic‐guided laser ablation was effective for the treatment of ureteroceles(s) in 11 of 13 dogs.
Sraffian general equilibrium
Authors: Parchure Rajas
Published: February 2019

If the Sraffa system of equations is augmented by consumption demand equations of households and investment demand equations of industries the result is a complete system of general equilibrium having a unique positive solution for the relative prices, absolute levels of industrial outputs, the rates of growth and profit, the real wage rate, and the shares of ownership of the capital stock. The model has been generalized to include the government sector and determine the tax rate and public expenditure. Constructive algorithms for the computation of the general equilibrium have been presented. Empirical evidence from cross‐country sources has been gathered in support of a central inference of the model viz. the long‐run convergence of industrial growth rates and rates of profit towards uniformity.
The master quorum‐sensing regulators LuxR/HapR directly interact with the alpha subunit of RNA polymerase to drive transcription activation in Vibrio harveyi and Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Ball Alyssa S. , van Kessel Julia C.
Published: February 2019

In Vibrio species, quorum sensing controls gene expression for numerous group behaviors, including bioluminescence production, biofilm formation, virulence factor secretion systems, and competence. The LuxR/HapR master quorum‐sensing regulators activate expression of hundreds of genes in response to changes in population densities. The mechanism of transcription activation by these TetR‐type transcription factors is unknown, though LuxR DNA binding sites that lie in close proximity to the −35 region of the promoter are required for activation at some promoters. Here, we show that Vibrio harveyi LuxR directly interacts with RNA polymerase to activate transcription of the luxCDABE bioluminescence genes. LuxR interacts with RNA polymerase in vitro and in vivo and specifically interacts with both the N‐ and C‐terminal domains of the RNA polymerase α‐subunit. Amino acid substitutions in the RNAP interaction domain on LuxR decrease interactions between LuxR and the α‐subunit and result in defects in transcription activation of quorum‐sensing genes in vivo. The RNAP‐LuxR interaction domain is conserved in Vibrio cholerae HapR and is required for activation of the HapR‐regulated gene hapA. Our findings support a model in which LuxR/HapR bind proximally to RNA polymerase to drive transcription initiation at a subset of quorum‐sensing genes in Vibrio species.
Melocalamus grandiauritus (Poaceae: Bambusoideae), a new clambering species from northern Vietnam
Authors: Qin Qiao‐Mei , Tong Yi‐Hua , Zheng Xi‐Rong , Ni Jing‐Bo , Vu Tien‐Chinh , Xia Nian‐He
Published: February 2019

Here we describe and illustrate a new species, Melocalamus grandiauritus N.H. Xia, Q.M. Qin & J. B. Ni sp. nov., from the lowland forest in Thanh Hoa Province, Vietnam. Molecular phylogeny based on the GBSSI indicates that this species is a member of Melocalamus. Morphologically, M. grandiauritus is different from all congeneric species in Vietnam. It is somewhat similar to M. pacoensis H.N.Nguyen & V.T.Tran, but is easily distinguished by having much wider suborbicular culm leaf auricles, very high and ventricose auricles of foliage leaves, entire ligules of both culm leaves and foliage leaves, and large leaf blades.
Differences in carbon isotope leaf‐to‐phloem fractionation and mixing patterns along a vertical gradient in mature European beech and Douglas fir
Authors: Bögelein Rebekka , Lehmann Marco M. , Thomas Frank M.
Published: February 2019

While photosynthetic isotope discrimination is well understood, the postphotosynthetic and transport‐related fractionation mechanisms that influence phloem and subsequently tree ring δ13C are less investigated and may vary among species.

We studied the seasonal and diel courses of leaf‐to‐phloem δ13C differences of water‐soluble organic matter (WSOM) in vertical crown gradients and followed the assimilate transport via the branches to the trunk phloem at breast height in European beech (Fagus sylvatica) and Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii). δ13C of individual sugars and cyclitols from a subsample was determined by compound‐specific isotope analysis.

In beech, leaf‐to‐phloem δ13C differences in WSOM increased with height and were partly caused by biochemical isotope fractionation between leaf compounds. 13C‐Enrichment of phloem sugars relative to leaf sucrose implies an additional isotope fractionation mechanism related to leaf assimilate export. In Douglas fir, leaf‐to‐phloem δ13C differences were much smaller and isotopically invariant pinitol strongly influenced leaf and phloem WSOM. Trunk phloem WSOM at breast height reflected canopy‐integrated δ13C in beech but not in Douglas fir.

Our results demonstrate that leaf‐to‐phloem isotope fractionation and δ13C mixing patterns along vertical gradients can differ between tree species. These effects have to be considered for functional interpretations of trunk phloem and tree ring δ13C.
Arabidopsis YAF9 histone readers modulate flowering time through NuA4‐complex‐dependent H4 and H2A.Z histone acetylation at FLC chromatin
Authors: Crevillén Pedro , Gómez‐Zambrano Ángeles , López Juan A. , Vázquez Jesús , Piñeiro Manuel , Jarillo José A.
Published: February 2019

Posttranslational histone modifications and the dynamics of histone variant H2A.Z are key mechanisms underlying the floral transition. In yeast, SWR1‐C and NuA4‐C mediate the deposition of H2A.Z and the acetylation of histone H4, H2A and H2A.Z, respectively. Yaf9 is a subunit shared by both chromatin‐remodeling complexes. The significance of the two Arabidopsis YAF9 homologues, YAF9A and YAF9B, is unknown.

To get an insight into the role of Arabidopsis YAF9 proteins in plant developmental responses, we followed physiological, genetic, genomic, epigenetic, proteomics and cell biology approaches.

Our data revealed that YAF9A and YAF9B are histone H3 readers with unequally redundant functions. Double mutant yaf9a yaf9b plants display pleiotropic developmental phenotypic alterations as well as misregulation of a wide variety of genes. We demonstrated that YAF9 proteins regulate flowering time by both FLC‐dependent and independent mechanisms that work in parallel with SWR1‐C. Interestingly, we show that YAF9A binds FLC chromatin and that YAF9 proteins regulate FLC expression by modulating the acetylation levels of H2A.Z and H4 but not H2A.Z deposition.

Our work highlights the key role exerted by YAF9 homologues in the posttranslational modification of canonical histones and variants that regulate gene expression in plants to control development.
QTL analysis for soil‐surface roots originating from a New Plant Type rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Tomita Asami , Fukuta Yoshimichi
Published: February 2019

The introgression line YTH16 harbouring chromosome segments from the New Plant Type cultivar IR65600–87–2‐2–3 with genetic background of an Indica Group rice IR 64 forms soil‐surface roots. To clarify the genetic mechanism, QTL analysis was performed using hybrid populations derived from a cross between IR 64 and YTH16. A total of eight QTLs were detected in the three introgressed segments on chromosomes 2, 5 and 7. Seven chromosome segment lines (CSLs) combining these three QTL regions were selected from the progenies. The two CSLs harbouring a single region (excluding the CSL with a region on chromosome 5) showed high scores and low means of root angle distribution in comparison with IR 64. Four CSLs harbouring two or three regions showed high scores and low means of root angle distribution in comparison with YTH16 and the CSLs harbouring a single QTL region. These results indicated that the soil‐surface rooting of YTH16 was controlled by the three QTLs’ regions and that chr. 5 particularly played a role in supporting the effect with others.
Public sector soybean (Glycine max) breeding: Advances in cultivar development in the African tropics
Authors: Chigeza Godfree , Boahen Steve , Gedil Melaku , Agoyi Eric , Mushoriwa Hapson , Denwar Nicholas , Gondwe Therese , Tesfaye Abush , Kamara Alpha , Alamu Oladeji Emmanuel , Chikoye David
Published: February 2019

Formal public sector soybean breeding in Africa spans over four decades, and it was initiated by the International Institute of Tropical Agricultural (IITA). As the demand of soybean continues to outstrip production, strategic projects such the Tropical Legume (TL) were initiated, in which the main goal was to enhance the productivity of soybean in the farmers’ fields in Sub‐Saharan Africa. One of the strategies to enhance the productivity of soybean in the farmers’ fields is through developing and deploying improved soybean varieties in the target countries. Through the TL I and TL II projects, a number of varieties were released in the target countries, Kenya, Nigeria, Malawi and Mozambique by employing participatory variety selection (PVS). This review provides highlights of the achievements made by IITA breeding programme and insights of what needs to be done to enhance yield improvement for soybean in Africa using demand‐driven breeding approaches.
Growth in children infected with HIV receiving anti‐retroviral therapy in Vietnam
Authors: Dang Vu Phuong Linh , Pham Viet Hung , Dinh Thi Thanh , Le Thanh Hai , Nguyen Van Lam , Vu Thi Phuong
Published: February 2019

Background

There are currently two markers used to monitor treatment response to anti‐retroviral therapy (ART) in HIV‐infected children: CD4 T‐cell count and HIV viral load; but analysis of these could be challenging in resource‐poor countries. The aim of this study was therefore to determine whether change in growth parameters such as weight‐for‐age Z score (WAZ), height‐for‐age Z score (HAZ) and body mass index‐for‐age Z score (BMIZ) is associated with treatment response in HIV‐infected children.

Methods

This was a nested case–control study, in which the data were collected at enrolment and then periodically every 6 months for a total 36 month follow up of 107 HIV‐infected children enrolled and treated at National Hospital of Pediatrics, Vietnam.

Results

At treatment initiation, WAZ, HAZ and BMIZ were not significantly higher in the treatment success (TS) group compared with the treatment failure (TF) group. After ART initiation, WAZ and HAZ increased, and this was significant in the TS group (from −1.5 to −0.54, P < 0.01 and from −2.06 to −0.84, P < 0.01, respectively). Low HAZ was significantly associated with TF (HR, 0.71; 95% CI: 0.54–0.92).

Conclusion

Height‐for‐age Z score was the most sensitive growth parameter in prediction of the treatment response. In order to use growth parameters, particularly HAZ as a prognosis marker for TF in clinical practice, further research should be conducted to evaluate the role of growth parameters and their effects on treatment response.
Dental caries and vitamin D status in children in Asia
Authors: Almoudi Manal Mohamed , Hussein Alaa Sabah , Abu Hassan Mohamed Ibrahim , Schroth Robert J
Published: February 2019

Dental caries and vitamin D inadequacy are known to affect children worldwide. Vitamin D has a vital role in tooth formation. There is growing evidence linking suboptimal serum vitamin D level with dental caries in children. This paper reviews the literature on both the prevalence of dental caries and of vitamin D deficiency in children in four Asian regions, discusses their associated risk factors, and reviews the global evidence on the association between dental caries and vitamin D in children. Caries prevalence in children ranged from 40% to 97% in Eastern Asia, 38–73.7% in Southern Asia, and 26.5–74.7% in Western Asian countries. Moreover, a higher prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in Asian children was identified, even in countries in equatorial regions, ranging from 2.8% to 65.3% in Eastern Asia, 5–66.7% in Southern Asia, 4–45.5% in Western Asia and 38.1–78.7% in Central Asian countries. Obesity, age, female gender, higher latitude, season, darker skin pigmentation, sunlight protection behaviors, less sunlight exposure and low intake of food containing vitamin D were important factors associated with lower serum vitamin D in Asia. Suboptimal vitamin D level in children may be a significant risk factor for dental caries, and requires further research to ascertain such an association in children in Asia, as well as to understand its exact influence on caries risk and development.
Love conditionally: The ownership structure and bribery behavior of Chinese firms
Authors: Wu Ruohan , Jiang Zheng , Shi Huimin
Published: February 2019

This paper studies empirically the determinants of firm bribery activities from the perspective of ownership structure. Using data on Chinese firms obtained from the Enterprise Surveys conducted by the World Bank, we compare the bribery activities of firms with various forms of ownership. We find that compared with private and foreign firms, state‐owned firms in China are not only more likely to receive bribe requests from government officials, but are also more likely to pay bribes. Meanwhile, firms are more likely to bribe if they are extorted, or if they expect to reduce infrastructural obstacles to their business operations. Other factors such as manager experience and external audits also exhibit significant influence upon firms’ bribery decisions.
A Cautionary Tale: Discriminatory Lending against Hispanic Farmers and Ranchers in Southern Colorado
Authors: Waddell Benjamin James
Published: February 2019

Despite legal and civil emancipation, minorities in the United States continue to face extremely unequal opportunity structures in the financial realm. Evidence of this is found in the fact that segregation between Anglos and minorities has changed little since the civil rights era. This is particularly true for Hispanics, who have actually witnessed an increase in segregation in recent years. Although many factors have contributed to this outcome, unequal access to financial credit has played a particularly important role in maintaining the status quo between Hispanics and Anglos. In this article, I analyze the lasting impact of discriminatory lending within Hispanic communities in southern Colorado. I examine how unfavorable access to credit has contributed to wealth disparities in this region. My results demonstrate that lenders systematically denied Hispanic farmers and ranchers access to subsidized loans throughout the twentieth century. The lack of access to formal banking, the underappreciation of homes and land, and the deliberate isolation of Hispanics from formal institutions forced many Hispanic families to leave the area altogether. Ultimately, unequal access to credit has fostered deep inequalities between Anglos and Hispanics in the region, which, in turn, has reinforced ethnic tension between these two groups.
Toward a New Definition of Unmet Need for Contraception
Authors: Rominski Sarah D. , Stephenson Rob
Published: February 2019

The current definition of unmet need for contraception assumes that all women who are using a method have a met need. We argue that without taking into account the level of satisfaction with a method, many women are classified as having a met need, when in fact they have an unmet need. They are using a method that does not meet their preferences, either because it causes side effects they find untenable or has other characteristics they do not like. Given the large number of contraceptive episodes that end in discontinuation, reportedly often due to the experience of side effects, we argue that the current definition of unmet need undercounts the number of women with a true unmet need for contraception as it misses the many women who are using a method that does not meet their preferences. We suggest the addition of satisfaction questions in national surveys such as the Demographic and Health Surveys to more fully assess the level of true met need for contraception.
Physical activity among Norwegian preschoolers varies by sex, age, and season
Authors: Nilsen Ada Kristine Ofrim , Anderssen Sigmund Alfred , Ylvisaaker Einar , Johannessen Kjersti , Aadland Eivind
Published: February 2019

Background

Knowledge of physical activity (PA) in preschool populations is important for public health promotion. We investigated levels of PA in a large sample of Norwegian preschoolers and explored variations and development in PA by sex, age, and season.

Methods

Physical activity levels of 1154 children (mean age 4.7 years, 52% boys) were measured by accelerometry (ActiGraph GT3X+) for 14 consecutive days between autumn 2015 and summer 2016. Additionally, 330 children provided up to 3 repeated measurements of PA across seasons. A linear mixed model was applied to analyze associations and interactions of total PA (cpm), light PA (LPA), moderate PA (MPA), vigorous PA (VPA), moderate‐to‐vigorous PA (MVPA), sedentary time (SED), sex, age, and season.

Results

Boys and girls spent mean (standard deviation) 72 (21) and 59 (18) min/d in MVPA and had a total PA of 790 (202) and 714 (192) cpm/d, respectively. Boys had higher PA levels than girls, PA increased with age, and PA was higher during spring/summer than autumn/winter (P < 0.001). Boys had a greater increase in PA by age than girls (P < 0.05), mainly due to increased MVPA during spring/summer (p for sex × age × season=0.009).

Conclusions

Boys were consistently more active and less sedentary than girls, and PA increased with age for both sexes. Boys exhibited a greater increase than girls in PA by age, and PA differed across seasons, with higher levels of MVPA during spring/summer. Differences in MVPA between boys and girls, among age groups, and among seasons seem to be interrelated, indicating that many factors influence preschoolers’ PA.