bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developmental ability of oocytes retrieved from Meishan neonatal ovarian tissue grafted into nude mice
Authors: Kaneko Hiroyuki , Kikuchi Kazuhiro , Men Nguyen Thi , Noguchi Junko
Published: January 2019

Ovarian xenografting makes it possible to obtain oocytes with fertilization ability from immature pigs of Western breeds. In this study, we applied these methods to the Meishan, an indigenous Chinese pig breed, and investigated the developmental competence of oocytes grown in their neonatal tissue after grafting into nude mice. First, mice harboring neonatal ovarian tissue were infused with follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) (62.5 U/ml) for 13 days starting at 10, 30, and 60 days after vaginal opening (D10‐, D30‐, and D60‐FSH groups, respectively). Development of antral follicles and their oocytes was most enhanced in the D60‐FSH group. For the next step, we examined the in vitro maturation ability of the oocytes recovered from host mice after infusion with FSH at a dose of 62.5 U/ml or 125 U/ml (FSH‐62.5 or ‐125 group) for 13 days starting at 60 days after vaginal opening. Many more oocytes with maturation ability were obtained from the FSH‐125 group. The FSH‐125 mature oocytes were fertilized in vitro, as shown by formation of male and female pronuclei, but did not reach the blastocyst stage. These results indicate that Meishan neonatal ovaries are able to produce oocytes with fertilization ability after being grafted into nude mice.
Qualitative and quantitative interpretations of the least restrictive means
Authors: Byskov Morten F.
Published: January 2019

Within healthcare ethics and public health ethics, it has been the custom that medical and public health interventions should adhere to the principle of the least restrictive means. This principle holds that public health measures should interfere with the autonomous freedom of individuals to the least possible or necessary extent. This paper contributes to the discussion on how best to conceptualize what counts as the least restrictive means. I argue that we should adopt a novel, qualitative interpretation of what counts as the least restrictive means. Based on the multidimensional framework of the capability approach, the qualitative interpretation holds that the least restrictive means should be measured in terms of whether it restricts certain normatively valuable freedoms. I contrast this interpretation with quantitative interpretations that measure how much, or the extent to which, a public health measure interferes with the freedom of individuals.
The role of data custodians in establishing and maintaining social licence for health research
Authors: Allen Judy , Adams Carolyn , Flack Felicity
Published: January 2019

In this article we explore the role of data custodians in establishing and maintaining social licence for the use of personal information in health research. Personal information from population‐level data collections can be used to make significant contributions to health and medical research, but this use is dependent on community acceptance or a social licence. We conducted semi‐structured interviews with data custodians across Australia to better understand data custodians’ views on their roles and responsibilities. This inductive, thematic analysis of the interview data focuses on three factors that contribute to social licence – reciprocity, non‐exploitation and the public good. While the data custodians interviewed did not explicitly frame their role in the context of social licence, their descriptions of their roles and responsibilities clearly indicated that they did have some role to play in building and maintaining social licence.
Successional dynamics of the bee community in a tropical dry forest: Insights from taxonomy and functional ecology
Authors: Ramos‐Fabiel Melbi A. , Pérez‐García Eduardo A. , González Edgar J. , Yáñez‐Ordoñez Olivia , Meave Jorge A.
Published: January 2019

Despite the recent rapid growth of tropical dry forest succession ecology, most studies on this topic have focused on plant community attribute recovery, whereas animal community successional dynamics has been largely overlooked, and the few existing studies have used taxonomic approaches. Here, we analyze the successional changes in the bee community in a Mexican tropical dry forest, by integrating taxonomic (species, genus, and family diversity) and functional (sociability, nesting strategy, and body size) information for bees. Over one year, in a successional chronosequence (2–67 years after abandonment) we collected 469 individual bees, representing five families, 36 genera, and 69 species. Linear modeling showed decreases in taxonomic diversity with succession, more strongly so for species. Bee species turnover along succession ranged from moderate to high, decreasing slightly at intermediate stages. An RLQ analysis (ordination method that allows relating environmental variables with functional attributes) revealed clear relations between bee functional traits and the plant community. RLQ axis 1 was positively related to vegetation structural and diversity variables, and to eusociality, while solitary, parasociality, and ground nesting was negatively associated with it. Early successional fallows attract mostly solitary and parasocial bees; older fallows tend to attract eusocial bees with aerial nesting. The continuous taxonomic turnover observed by us and the functional analysis suggest that the disappearance of old fallows from agricultural landscapes would likely result in significant reductions and even local extinctions of particular bee guilds. Considering the low viability of preserving large mature tropical dry forest tracts, the conservation of older successional stands emerges as a crucial component of landscape management.Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Distinct chemotherapy‐associated anti‐cancer immunity by myeloid cells inhibition in murine pancreatic cancer models
Authors: Sakai Yoshio , Miyazawa Masaki , Komura Takuya , Yamada Takeshi , Nasti Alessandro , Yoshida Keiko , Takabatake Hisashi , Yamato Masatoshi , Yamashita Taro , Yamashita Tatsuya , Mizukoshi Eishiro , Okuzono Mai , Ho Tuyen Thuy Bich , Kawaguchi Kazunori , Wada Takashi , Honda Masao , Kaneko Shuichi
Published: January 2019

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal malignancy associated with an extremely poor prognosis. Chemotherapy, such as gemcitabine (GEM), is the only treatment for PDAC patients who are not suitable for radical surgical treatment; however, its anti‐tumor efficacy is limited. In this study, we investigated the host immune system response in murine PDAC models undergoing GEM treatment. We found that PDAC tumor tissues were infiltrated with a substantial number of Gr‐1+ myeloid cells and had relatively small numbers of CD4+ and CD8+ cells. In addition, there were increased numbers of myeloid cells expressing CD11b+ and Gr‐1+ in peripheral blood. When mice with PDAC tumors in the intraperitoneal cavity or liver were treated with GEM, numbers of myeloid cells in tumor tissues and in peripheral blood decreased. In contrast, numbers of CD4+ or CD8+ cells increased. In peripheral blood, the numbers of CD8+ cells expressing interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) were higher in GEM‐treated mice than in untreated mice. In addition, GEM treatment in combination with myeloid cell depletion further prolonged the survival of PDAC mice. The gene expression profile of peripheral blood in myeloid cell‐depleted PDAC mice treated with GEM showed biological processes related to anti‐cancer immunity, such as natural killer cell‐mediated cytotoxicity, type I IFN signaling, and co‐stimulatory signaling for T cell activation. Thus, in PDAC murine models, GEM treatment was associated with an immune response consistent with an anti‐cancer effect, and depletion of myeloid‐lineage cells played an important role in enhancing anti‐cancer immunity associated with GEM treatment.
Impact of Literacy Interventions on Reading Skills in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Kim Young‐Suk G. , Lee Hansol , Zuilkowski Stephanie S.
Published: January 2019

Reading skills are foundational for daily lives, academic achievement, and careers. In this study, we systematically reviewed literacy interventions in low‐ and middle‐income countries, and estimated their effects on children's reading skills using a meta‐analytic approach. A total of 67 studies (N = 213,464) from 32 countries found in various databases (e.g., PsycINFO, ERIC) and sources (e.g., United States Agency for International Development) met our inclusion criteria. The results revealed an overall effect of .30 across various literacy outcomes. Effects varied for different outcomes, such that largest effects were found in emergent literacy skills (e.g., .40) and the smallest effects in reading comprehension (.25) and oral language skills (.20). Effects also varied as a function of other features such as teacher training support.
Risks of colorectal neoplasms and cardiovascular thromboembolic events after the combined use of selective COX‐2 inhibitors and aspirin with 5‐year follow‐up: a meta‐analysis
Authors: He P. , Yang C. , Ye G. , Xie H. , Zhong W.
Published: January 2019

Aim

We aimed to evaluate the association between selective COX‐2 inhibitors (coxibs) and the risk of colorectal neoplasms and vascular events with and without low‐dose aspirin.

Method

We searched for randomized controlled trials and comparative studies in PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library databases using pertinent key terms. Risk ratios (RRs) were calculated for each study with a fixed‐ or random‐effects model.

Results

Eight clinical studies with 44 566 subjects were eligible. The use of coxib significantly reduced the overall risk of colorectal neoplasms by 21% (RR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.70−0.89; P = 0.000). The chemopreventive effect of coxibs was beneficial in the first year (RR = 0.74, 95% CI 0.58–0.94; P = 0.013), marginal in the third year (RR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.63−1.01; P = 0.059) and counterproductive in the fifth year (RR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.23−2.21; P = 0.001). Compared with the use of aspirin alone, combined use of coxib and aspirin for 3 years increased the risk of a colorectal neoplasm by 80% in the fifth year (RR = 1.80, 95% CI 1.22−2.66; P = 0.003) but decreased by 79% and 30%, respectively, the risks of cardiovascular thromboembolic events (RR = 1.79, 95% CI 1.33−2.41; P = 0.0001) and renal impairment/hypertension (RR = 1.30, 95% CI 1.09−1.54; P = 0.003) caused by coxib use alone.

Conclusion

Coxibs may reduce the overall risk of colorectal neoplasms, but the chemopreventive effects are attenuated over time. When participants take low‐dose aspirin simultaneously, coxibs may not be useful for chemoprevention of colorectal neoplasm.
STAT3‐induced upregulation of lncRNA ABHD11‐AS1 promotes tumour progression in papillary thyroid carcinoma by regulating miR‐1301‐3p/STAT3 axis and PI3K/AKT signalling pathway
Authors: Wen Juyi , Wang Hongwei , Dong Tingjun , Gan Panpan , Fang Henghu , Wu Sudong , Li Jingjiao , Zhang Yuanyuan , Du Rui , Zhu Qi
Published: January 2019

Objectives

Emerging evidences indicated the importance of long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the tumorigenesis and deterioration of malignant tumours. To our knowledge, the study about lncRNAs in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is still inadequate. ABHD11‐AS1 was highly expressed in the PTC samples of The Cancer Genome Atlas database. This study focused on the biological function and mechanism of lncRNA ABHD11‐AS1 in PTC.

Materials and methods

qRT‐PCR analysis was used to examine the expression of ABHD11‐AS1 in PTC tissues and cell lines. The prognostic significance of ABHD11‐AS1 for the patients with PTC was analysed with Kaplan‐Meier analysis. The effects of ABHD11‐AS1 knockdown on the cell proliferation and metastasis were evaluated by in vitro functional assays and in vivo experiments. The molecular mechanism which contributed to the oncogenic role of ABHD11‐AS1 in PTC was explored by conducting mechanism experiments. Rescue assays were carried out for final demonstration.

Results

High expression of ABHD11‐AS1 predicted poor prognosis for patients with PTC and promoted cell proliferation and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. ABHD11‐AS1 was activated by the transcription factor STAT3. ABHD11‐AS1 positively regulated PI3K/AKT signalling pathway. ABHD11‐AS1 acted as a competitive endogenous (ce) RNA to upregulate STAT3 by sponging miR‐1301‐3p.

Conclusions

STAT3‐induced lncRNA ABHD11‐AS1 promoted PTC progression by regulating PI3K/AKT signalling pathway and miR‐1301‐3p/STAT3 axis.
An Empirically Derived Index of High School Academic Rigor
Authors: Allen Jeff , Mattern Krista , Ndum Edwin
Published: January 2019

We derived an index of high school academic rigor (HSAR) by optimizing the prediction of first‐year college GPA (FYGPA) based on high school courses taken, grades, and indicators of advanced coursework. Using a large data set and nominal parameterization of high school course outcomes, the HSAR index capitalizes on differential contributions across courses and nonlinear relationships between course grades and FYGPA. Test scores from eighth grade were incorporated in the model to isolate the contribution of HSAR. High school courses with the largest relationships with FYGPA were English 11, English 12, Chemistry, English 10, Calculus, and Algebra 2. Participation in Advanced Placement, accelerated, or honors courses increased HSAR. The correlation of the HSAR index and FYGPA was .52 and the HSAR index led to modest improvement in overall prediction when combined with high school GPA and ACT Composite score. HSAR index subgroup differences were smaller than subgroup differences in ACT Composite score. Implications for high school counselors, researchers, and postsecondary student service personnel are discussed.
Pressure‐induced activation of latent dihydroorotase from Aquifex aeolicus as revealed by high pressure protein crystallography
Authors: Prangé Thierry , Girard Eric , Fourme Roger , Dhaussy Anne‐Claire , Edwards Brian , Vaishnav Asmita , Patel Chandni , Guy‐Evans Hedeel , Hervé Guy , Evans David R.
Published: January 2019

Dihydroorotase (DHOase) is involved in the de novo synthesis of pyrimidine in virtually all organisms, and it is usually associated with two other enzymes found in this biosynthetic pathway, carbamylphosphate synthetase and/or aspartate transcarbamylase (ATCase). In the hyperthermophilic bacterium Aquifex aeolicus, ATCase and DHOase are noncovalently associated. Upon dissociation, ATCase keeps its activity entirely while DHOase is totally inactivated. It was previously shown that high pressure fully restores the activity of this isolated DHOase. On the basis of kinetic studies, site‐directed mutagenesis and the use of peptides mimicking loop A, a loop that appears to block access to the active site, was proposed that this pressure‐induced reactivation was due to the decrease in the volume of the system, −ΔV, resulting from the disruption of known ionic interactions between the loop and the main part of the protein. In this study, this interpretation is more precisely demonstrated by the determination of the crystallographic structure of isolated DHOase under pressure. In addition to the loop displacements, pressure induces a discrete rearrangement of the catalytic site aspartate 305, an effect that might additionally contribute to the reactivation of this enzyme.
Mammalian sugar‐binding receptors: known functions and unexplored roles
Authors: Taylor Maureen E. , Drickamer Kurt
Published: January 2019

Mammalian glycan‐binding receptors, sometimes known as lectins, interact with glycans, the oligosaccharide portions of endogenous mammalian glycoproteins and glycolipids as well as sugars on the surfaces of microbes. These receptors guide glycoproteins out of and back into cells, facilitate communication between cells through both adhesion and signaling, and allow the innate immune system to respond quickly to viral, fungal, bacterial, and parasitic pathogens. For many of the roughly 100 glycan‐binding receptors that are known in humans, there are good descriptions of what types of glycans they bind and how selectivity for these ligands is achieved at the molecular level. In some cases, there is also comprehensive evidence for the roles that the receptors play at the cellular and organismal levels. In addition to highlighting these well‐understood paradigms for glycan‐binding receptors, this review will suggest where gaps remain in our understanding of the physiological functions that they can serve.
Protective effects of gastrin‐releasing peptide receptor antagonist RC‐3095 in an animal model of hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Guo Long , Wu Xinwan , Zhang Ying , Wang Fang , Li Jinbao , Zhu Jiali
Published: January 2019

Aim

We aimed to evaluate effects of RC‐3095 on mice with hepatic ischemia followed by reperfusion (I/R) injury and further explore the possible underlying mechanism.

Methods

Mice were subjected to partial hepatic ischemia for 60 min followed by different durations of reperfusion. Levels of gastrin‐releasing peptide (GRP) and GRP receptor (GRPR) in the blood and liver were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or western blotting (WB) after 3, 6, 12, or 24 h of reperfusion. RC‐3095 or normal saline (control) was given i.p. at the time of reperfusion. Expressions of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, and IL‐10 in blood and liver samples were examined with ELISA. Neutrophil influx into the liver was assessed by flow cytometry and myeloperoxidase assay. Hematoxylin–eosin staining of the liver and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated dUTP‐biotin nick end labeling assay were used to determine hepatic injury and hepatocellular necrosis. Activation of nuclear factor (NF)‐κB and p38/extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK) mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) was investigated with WB.

Results

The expression of GRP was upregulated within 3 h after reperfusion and remained elevated for up to 24 h in the liver, whereas GRPR was also upregulated after 3 or 6 h of reperfusion, but returned to baseline levels within 24 h. RC‐3095 significantly reduced the inflammatory hepatic injury, liver neutrophil accumulation, and hepatocellular apoptosis, probably by inhibiting activation of NF‐κB or p38/ERK MAPK.

Conclusion

These findings supported that GRP–GRPR played an important role in hepatic I/R injury, and RC‐3095 ameliorated liver damage by suppressing the inflammatory response and hepatocellular necrosis.
“I never imagined” pronunciation as “such an interesting thing”: Student teacher perception of innovative practices
Authors: Burri Michael , Baker Amanda
Published: January 2019

Despite extensive research conducted into language teacher education practices and outcomes, student teachers' uptake of innovative practices is still largely unexplored. This study examined the perception of 15 graduate student teachers of a unique haptic (movement and touch) pronunciation teaching method in which they were trained. Focus group interviews, semi‐structured interviews, and weekly observations were triangulated over a period of 16 weeks to attain insights into participants' perceptions of haptic pronunciation teaching. Findings suggested that their overall view of haptic pronunciation instruction was positive, but challenges with performing the pedagogical movements and uncertainty about the method's efficacy clouded some of their perceptions. The paper concludes with a discussion about supporting student teachers in overcoming their doubts about applying innovative pedagogy.
De‐implementation of tradition‐based practices in critical care: A qualitative study
Authors: Bourgault Annette M. , Upvall Michele J.
Published: January 2019

Aim

To explore the process of tradition‐based practice (TBP) de‐implementation by critical care nurses.

Background

Ritualistic and routine practices have been described as sacred cows or TBPs. Many clinical practices have insufficient or no evidence and may lead to poor patient outcomes. De‐implementation (termination) of potentially harmful, ineffective, or non cost‐effective TBP is necessary to facilitate evidence‐based practice (EBP) in the clinical setting.

Design

Descriptive qualitative inquiry guided this study.

Methods

Twenty‐two critical care nurses from an acute care hospital in central Florida participated. Individual and focus group interviews were performed March to July 2016 and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Three themes were identified: (a) uncertainty, (b) desire to know, and (c) preparing for practice change. Nurses were uncertain about the scientific underpinnings of everyday clinical practices and had difficulty differentiating TBP from EBP. De‐implementation processes and strategies appeared to replicate implementation processes.

Conclusion

More research is needed to evaluate de‐implementation processes and strategies used for de‐implementation. An emphasis should be placed on ensuring that nurses are knowledgeable about fundamental EBP skills to encourage assessment of clinical practices for supporting research evidence. Awareness and understanding of TBPs will facilitate a more comprehensive approach towards achieving the gold standard of EBP.
Cryofreezing catheter ablation of adenosine triphosphate sensitive atrial tachycardia
Authors: Okishige Kaoru , Shigeta Takatoshi , Nishimura Takuro , Nakamura Rena A. , Hirao Tatsuhiko , Yoshida Hiroshi , Yamauchi Yasuteru , Sasano Tetsuo , Hirao Kenzo
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) sensitive atrial tachycardia (AT) has been treated by radiofrequency catheter ablation. Cryofreezing energy has emerged as a novel energy source for catheter ablation. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of cryofreezing ablation for ATP‐sensitive AT.

Methods and Results

A total of six patients with ATP‐sensitive ATs were included in this study. A single atrial extrastimulation was able to initiate and terminate these ATs in all six patients. The electrophysiological findings satisfied the diagnostic criteria of ATP‐sensitive AT. The ablation catheter was located at the earliest activation site of atrial excitation during the AT, and cryofreezing energy was delivered through a cryoablation catheter to perform cryomapping at temperature of −30 or −80°C. When cryomapping successfully terminated the ATs, cryoablation at a temperature of −80°C was subsequently performed. The earliest atrial activation during AT was recorded at the Koch's triangle area associated with a distinct intra‐atrial activation sequence from that recorded during ventricular pacing. Cryoablation was performed at successful cryomapping sites and resulted in the complete elimination of the AT in all six patients without affecting the bidirectional atrioventricular (AV) nodal conduction.

Conclusion

Cryofreezing energy was safe and effective in treating ATP‐sensitive ATs even in patients with its origins located in the vicinity of the AV node.
Does a combination of platelet‐rich plasma and decalcified freeze‐dried bone allograft offer advantages over decalcified freeze‐dried bone allograft alone when using pocket depth and clinical attachment level as markers for periodontal healing? A literature review
Authors: Jethwa Jashan , Ireland Robert S. , Chan David
Published: January 2019

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether a combination of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) and decalcified freeze‐dried bone allograft (DFDBA) offers advantages over DFDBA and saline in infrabony defects. The objectives were to primarily evaluate changes in clinical attachment level (CAL) and secondarily changes in pocket depth (PD). A search was performed of electronic databases (Medline, PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science), as well as hand searching and reference list searching. Only randomized, controlled trials published up until 30 March 2018 were included that had a follow‐up period of at least 6 months. Four papers met the eligibility criteria and were critically appraised using the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials statement and put through the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias. In three of the four studies, clinically and significantly greater CAL gains and PD reductions were observed in patients who received PRP and DFDBA in comparison to those who received DFDBA and saline (P < 0.05). Methodological heterogeneity existed among the studies, especially in the preparation of PRP and the type of infrabony defect. This made it difficult to draw clear conclusions, but despite this, the studies could still be regarded, as significant as they showed a low risk of bias.
Divergent behaviour of Th and U during anatexis: Implications for the thermal evolution of orogenic crust
Authors: Yakymchuk Chris , Brown Michael
Published: January 2019

Mobilization and migration of the heat‐producing elements (HPE) during anatexis is a critical process in the development of orogenic systems, the evolution of continental crust and the stabilization of cratons. In many crustal rocks the accessory minerals are the dominant hosts of Th and U, and the behaviour of these minerals during partial melting controls the concentrations of these elements in draining melt and residue. We use phase equilibrium modelling to evaluate if loss of melt saturated in the essential structural constituents of the accessory minerals can explain the concentrations of Th and U in residual metasedimentary migmatites and granulites along two well‐characterized crustal transects in the Ivrea zone, Italy and at Mt Stafford, Australia. While an equilibrium model of accessory mineral breakdown and melt loss approximates the depletion of U in the residual crust along both transects, it does not explain the relative enrichment of Th. We propose that the high Th concentrations in residual crust may be explained by either inhibition of monazite dissolution by kinetic factors or near‐peak growth of new high Th grains and overgrowth rims on undissolved monazite due to migration of melt through the orogenic crust. Retention of the HPE in the middle and deep orogenic crust may allow metasedimentary granulites to overcome the enthalpy barrier of melting to achieve ultrahigh temperature conditions and may be partly responsible for the slow cooling of many granulite terranes. Lastly, although the mantle was warmer and crustal heat production was higher in the past, peak temperatures and apparent thermal gradients of high‐temperature (HT)–ultrahigh temperature (UHT) granulite terranes have not decreased significantly since the Neoarchean. However, the pressure of HP granulite facies metamorphism has increased gradually from the Archean to the Phanerozoic, which suggests that the lithosphere became stronger as secular cooling of the mantle enabled plate collisions to form thicker orogens. Thus, as the lithosphere became stronger, the proportion of HT–UHT metamorphism associated with thin lithosphere and mantle heat has decreased, whereas the proportion associated with the formation of thick crust and radiogenic heat has increased.
The medial pulvinar: function, origin and association with neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Homman‐Ludiye Jihane , Bourne James A.
Published: January 2019

The pulvinar is primarily referred to for its role in visual processing. However, the ‘visual pulvinar’ only encompasses the inferior and lateral regions of this complex thalamic nucleus. The remaining medial portion (medial pulvinar, PM) establishes distinct cortical connectivity and has been associated with directed attention, executive functions and working memory. These functions are particularly impaired in neurodevelopmental disorders, including schizophrenia and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), both of which have been associated with abnormal PM architecture and connectivity. With these disorders becoming more prevalent in modern societies, we review the literature to better understand how the PM can participate in the pathophysiology of cognitive disorders and how a better understanding of the development and function of this thalamic nucleus, which is most likely exclusive to the primate brain, can advance clinical research and treatments.
Recruitment of the high elevation cushion plant Arenaria polytrichoides is limited by competition, thus threatened by currently established vegetation
Authors: Chen Jian‐Guo , Yang Yang , Wang Song‐Wei , Stöcklin Jürg , Peng De‐Li , Sun Hang
Published: January 2019

Cushion plants have been confirmed to be keystone species of alpine ecosystems. However, the adaptive strategies responsible for their recruitment and persistence remain largely unclear. Also, the effect of competition by species already established in surrounding vegetation is not known. We first assessed population size and the frequency distribution of individuals of different size in communities of the keystone cushion Arenaria polytrichoides Edgew. along an elevational gradient in southwestern China. Furthermore, in controlled experiments the effects of soil quality, light availability, and competition by other species on seedling recruitment and survival was tested. At lower elevation individuals were larger (elder), but population size (density) was lower compared to higher elevation; similarly, adults and old individuals were relatively more frequent at low elevation, whereas juvenile and small individuals were more frequent at higher elevations. Seedling recruitment differed depending on soil origin with seeds sown in soils from low elevation having a higher germination percentage and seedling survival when grown without competition. Competition by other species delayed germination but did not influence the final germination percentage, but it increased seedling mortality and reduced their survival. Full light accelerated the germination process, but did not affect final germination percentage and seedling mortality. Results suggest that the recruitment and persistence of A. polytrichoides is strongly affected by competition, whereas temperature and soil quality are less important. We speculate that when populations of cushion A. polytrichoides are likely to be exposed to higher competition due to environmental changes, this species is in danger of being weeded out.
Adult women and ADHD: On the temporal dimensions of ADHD identities
Authors: Stenner Paul , O'Dell Lindsay , Davies Alison
Published: January 2019

This paper uses conceptual resources drawn from psychosocial process thinking (Brown & Reavey, 2015; Brown & Stenner, 2009; Stenner, 2017) and from G.H. Mead in particular, to contribute to an emerging body of work on the experiences of adult women with ADHD (Horton‐Salway & Davies, 2018; Quinn & Madhoo, 2014; Singh, 2002; Waite & Ivey, 2009). It has a particular focus on how ADHD features in the construction of women's identities and life‐stories and it draws upon findings from a qualitative investigation of adult women diagnosed or self‐diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). A theoretically informed ‘thematic decomposition’ of 16 depth interviews reveals how complex processes of identity transformation are mediated by the social category of ADHD. Through this process, troubled pasts are reconstructed from the perspective of an ‘emergent’ identity that offers participants the potential for a more enabling and positive future.
School Hours and Maternal Labor Supply
Authors: Shure Nikki
Published: January 2019

This paper examines the effect of extending the primary school day on maternal labor supply. I exploit the staggered nature of the recent German reform to extend school hours and assess whether or not gaining access to a full day school increases the likelihood that mothers enter into the labor market or extend their hours worked if already employed. I use the German Socio‐Economic Panel data set (GSOEP) and link it to a self‐collected school‐level data set with geographical information software (GIS). Using a flexible difference‐in‐difference approach in the estimation of linear probability and logit models, I find that the policy has a statistically significant effect of approximately five percentage points at the extensive margin, drawing more women into the labor market. I find no significant effect of the policy at the intensive margin; women who were already working do not extend their hours worked. This has implications for policies to extend the school day that do not correspond to the working day.
Diversity of the oral microbiome between dentate and edentulous individuals
Authors: Gazdeck R. Kyle , Fruscione Sarah R. , Adami Guy R. , Zhou Yalu , Cooper Lyndon F. , Schwartz Joel L.
Published: January 2019

Background

Measurement of saliva microbes is promoted as a way to detect oral and systemic disease, yet there is a multitude of factors that affect the oral microbiome. The salivary microbiome is influenced by oral biofilm of shedding (epithelial) and non‐shedding (tooth) surfaces.

Methods

To gauge the ability of salivary microbial analytics to distinguish between edentulous and dentate oral conditions, we looked for differences in the saliva microbiome of subjects with and without teeth. Fifty‐two dentate and 49 edentulous subjects provided stimulated saliva samples. 16S rRNA gene sequencing, QIIME‐based data processing, and statistical analysis were done using several different analytical approaches to detect differences in the salivary microbiome between the two groups.

Results

Bacteria diversity was lower in the edentulous group. Remarkably, all 31 of the most significant differences in taxa were deficits that occur in the edentulous group. As one might expect many of these taxa are attributed to dental plaque and gingival sulcus associated bacteria.

Conclusion

In sum, the measurement of 16S rRNA genes in the bacteria of the saliva can be used to reproducibly measure differences in the oral microbiome that occur with edentulism, mainly the lack of tooth and tooth‐related structures.
Brain abscess potentially secondary to periodontal infection resulting in death of a young patient
Authors: Bonardi J.P. , Silva L.F. , Momesso G.A.C. , de Lima V.N. , Pereira R.S. , Garcia Júnior I.R. , Faverani L.P.
Published: January 2019

This study aimed to report a case of a 17‐year‐old female patient referred to the oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) team from Santa Casa de Araçatuba who was unconscious, had a Glasgow coma score of 3, and was diagnosed by a neurosurgeon with brain death. Her mother reported that the patient showed no systemic disease. The patient underwent a supragingival curettage after completion of an orthodontic treatment. One day after the procedure, the patient showed oedema at the canine superior right space and fluctuation point. After the abscess was drained, there was a worsening of clinical condition. The patient was referred to the Intensive Care Unit and showed only a leukocytosis (approximately 17 000 mm³). The OMS team observed a tissue necrosis on her right superior lip extending to the lower eyelid on the same side and oedema of the periorbital region. On computed tomography sections, hypodense images affecting the larger part of the right cerebral hemisphere were observed, suggestive of brain abscess. Unfortunately, the patient showed no response and her condition evolved to brain death, as diagnosed by electroencephalogram tests performed three times every 12 h. It is necessary to be highly careful with even minimal signs of infection, because we never know the aggressiveness of the bacteremia.
Why Nearly Everything Is KnowableA Priori
Authors: Cutter Brian
Published: January 2019

This paper argues that nearly every proposition could in principle be known a priori, with exceptions for necessary falsehoods and a few other odd cases. The argument for this conclusion has two main premises: (i) Odd exceptions aside, if it is possible that p, then it is possible that someone knows innately that p. (ii) Necessarily, whatever is known innately is known a priori. After defending (i) and (ii), I conclude by suggesting that the best way to recover a reasonably limited and interesting conception of the a priori is to adopt an anthropocentric conception of a priori knowability, one that is relativized to our own innate cognitive capacities. However, this proposal has consequences that contradict prevailing views about the a priori. More importantly, this proposal has the result that many philosophical applications of the notion of apriority are misguided.
Angiopoietin‐2 as a predictor of acute kidney injury in critically ill patients and association with ARDS
Authors: Araújo Camila Barbosa , de Oliveira Neves Fernanda Macedo , de Freitas Daniele Ferreira , Arruda Bianca Fernandes Távora , de Macêdo Filho Leonardo José Monteiro , Salles Vivian Brito , Meneses Gdayllon Cavalcante , Martins Alice Maria Costa , Libório Alexandre Braga
Published: January 2019

Background and objective

Angiopoietin‐2 (AGPT2) has been proposed as a key mediator of organ dysfunction, mainly in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). It has also been associated with acute kidney injury (AKI). We aimed to investigate the role of AGPT2 in patients with and without ARDS.

Methods

In a cohort study with critically ill patients, AGPT1 and AGPT2 were assayed in plasma collected within the first 24 h after admission to intensive care unit (ICU). Severe AKI and the need for dialysis were outcome measures from comparative analysis with clinical characteristics useful for AKI risk stratification.

Results

Among 283 patients (50.2% males), 109 (38.5%) had ARDS. AGPT2 levels at admission were higher in patients with ARDS. Although overall AGPT2 and AGPT2/AGPT1 levels were associated with severe AKI, this association was not significant in patients without ARDS; however, it remained strongly significant in ARDS patients. In patients without ARDS, AGPT2 showed only a weak discriminatory capacity to predict severe AKI (area under the curve (AUC): 0.64 vs 0.81 in the ARDS group). The continuous net reclassification improvement (NRI) in the ARDS group resulting from AGPT2 inclusion was 64.1% (P < 0.001) and the integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) index was 0.057 (P = 0.003). There was no significant difference in NRI in the no‐ARDS group.

Conclusion

AGPT2 and AGPT2/AGPT1 ratio are associated with severe AKI and there was only a need of renal replacement therapy (RRT) in patients with or at risk of ARDS, not in other critically ill patients. Adding AGPT2 to a clinical model resulted in a significant improvement in the capacity to predict severe AKI specifically in ARDS patients.
Pipeline right‐of‐way construction activities impact on deep soil compaction
Authors: Tekeste Mehari Z. , Hanna Harold M. , Neideigh Erica R. , Guillemette Andrew
Published: January 2019

A 762‐mm‐diameter pipe 1,886 km long was installed to transfer crude oil in the USA from North Dakota to Illinois. To investigate the impact of construction and restoration practices on long‐term soil productivity and crop yield, vertical soil stresses induced by a Caterpillar (CAT) pipe liner PL 87 (475 kN vehicle load) and semi‐trailer truck (8.9 kN axle load) were studied in a farm field. Soil properties (bulk density and cone penetration resistance) were measured on field zones within the right‐of‐way (ROW) classified according to construction machine trafficking and subsoil tillage (300‐mm‐depth tillage and 450‐mm‐depth tillage in two repeated passes) treatments. At 200 mm depth from the subsoiled surface, the magnitude of peak vertical soil stress from trafficking by the semi‐truck trailer and CAT pipe liner PL 87 was 133 kPa. The peak vertical soil stress at 400 mm soil depth appeared to be influenced by vehicle weight, where the Caterpillar pipe liner PL 87 created soil compaction a magnitude of 1.5 greater than from the semi‐trailer truck. Results from the soil bulk density and soil cone penetration resistance measurements also showed the ROW zones had significantly higher soil compaction than adjacent unaffected corn planted fields. Tillage to 450 mm depth alleviated the deep soil compaction better than the 300‐mm‐depth tillage as measured by soil cone penetration resistance within the ROW zones and the unaffected zone. These results could be incorporated into agricultural mitigation plans in ROW construction utilities to minimize soil and crop damage.
Changes in soil macropores: Superposition of the roles of organic nutrient amendments and the greenhouse pattern in vegetable plantations
Authors: Xu Lingying , Wang Meiyan , Tian Yutian , Shi Xuezheng , Shi Yijie , Yu Quanbo , Xu Shengxiang , Li Xiangwei , Xie Xinqiao
Published: January 2019

Organic farming can potentially mitigate soil compaction, which commonly occurs in vegetable plantations, particularly in greenhouses when compared with open‐air systems. Although several studies have addressed the effect of planting patterns on soil pore characteristics, few studies have focused on changes in pore attributes under organic fertilization. We used adjacent fields during green manure planting as a control to compare the differences in soil physicochemical and macropore parameters between 14‐year‐old greenhouse plots and open‐air plots under organic fertilization. Pearson's correlation analysis was performed to analyse the drivers of soil macropore characteristics in vegetable plantations in Jiangsu Province, China. A significant increase in connectivity, fractal dimensions and total macroporosity and a decrease in bulk density after 14 years of organic farming, particularly in the surface layer in the greenhouse, were observed. However, the difference in pores in the plough pan layer was not significant between the treatments. The volume of small pores (50–500 μm) and medium pores (500–1,000 μm) increased significantly (p < 0.05) in both the greenhouse and open‐air systems, showing significantly positive relationships with soil organic matter (SOM) and total nitrogen (TN) content. Large pores (>1,000 μm) showed a clear decrease, especially in open‐air fields, possibly due to the disappearance of the original straw residues in the surface layer. Small and medium pores in the plough layer increased in greenhouse fields, whereas the opposite occurred in open‐air fields. Overall, compared with open‐air systems, long‐term organic greenhouse patterns had a significantly positive effect on soil pore attributes.
Bronchoalveolar lavage hemosiderosis in dogs and cats with respiratory disease
Authors: Hooi Kimberly S. , Defarges Alice M. , Jelovcic Stipe V. , Bienzle Dorothee
Published: January 2019

Background

Hemosiderophages can be found in bronchoalveolar lavage samples and have been reported in association with a wide range of respiratory and cardiovascular disorders in cats and humans.

Objectives

This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the presence of hemosiderin in canine and feline bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples. It also aimed to examine the association of BAL hemosiderin with signalment, clinical signs, and historical disease prior to BAL, with prior transthoracic fine‐needle aspiration (FNA), with bronchoalveolar lavage duration, and with cytologic interpretation.

Methods

The medical records of dogs and cats with respiratory disease that underwent BAL between 2007 and 2016 were reviewed. Appropriate medical information and BAL results were available from 171 dogs and 34 cats. Cases were assigned to four disease categories based on BAL cytologic findings: pneumonia, inflammatory disease, neoplasia, or normal airways. The degree of hemosiderosis was classified based on a semi‐quantitative scoring scale. Exact logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between risk factors and the presence of BAL hemosiderosis on cytology.

Results

Hemosiderin was identified in 13/171 (7.6%) canine samples and 18/34 (52.9%) feline samples. Cats were 13.33 times more likely to have pulmonary hemosiderosis on bronchoalveolar lavage cytology compared with dogs (P < 0.001). Increased respiratory rates, prolonged bronchoalveolar lavage times, concurrent transthoracic FNAs, and cytologic diagnoses were associated with an increased risk of hemosiderosis in dogs. No specific risk factors associated with pulmonary hemosiderosis in cats were identified.

Conclusions

Hemosiderosis is more common in BAL samples from cats than from dogs and is associated with a diverse range of disease conditions.
Consensus on the Rational Use of Antithrombotics in Veterinary Critical Care (CURATIVE): Domain 4—Refining and monitoring antithrombotic therapies
Authors: Sharp Claire R. , deLaforcade Armelle M. , Koenigshof Amy M. , Lynch Alex M. , Thomason John M.
Published: January 2019

Objectives

To systematically review the evidence for therapeutic monitoring of antithrombotic drugs in small animals, develop guidelines regarding antithrombotic monitoring, and identify knowledge gaps in the field.

Design

First, a standardized, systematic literature review was conducted to address predefined PICO (Population/Patient, Intervention, Control, Outcome) questions, with categorization of relevant articles according to level of evidence and quality. Preliminary guidelines were developed by PICO worksheet authors and the domain chair. Thereafter, a Delphi‐style survey was used to develop consensus on guidelines regarding therapeutic monitoring of antithrombotics in dogs and cats.

Setting

Academic and referral veterinary medical centers.

Results

PICO questions regarding the utility of therapeutic monitoring were developed for 6 different antithrombotic drugs or drug classes, including aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin, unfractionated heparin, the low molecular weight heparins, and rivaroxaban, The majority of the literature pertaining to therapeutic monitoring of antithrombotic drugs was either performed in experimental animal models of disease or involved studies of drug pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in healthy laboratory animals. There was a paucity of high level of evidence studies directly addressing the PICO questions, which limited the strength of recommendations that could be provided. The final guidelines recommend that therapeutic monitoring should be performed when using warfarin or unfractionated heparin in dogs and cats at risk of thrombosis. There is insufficient evidence to make strong recommendations for therapeutic monitoring of aspirin or low molecular weight heparin in dogs and cats at this time.

Conclusions

As in other CURATIVE domains, significant knowledge gaps were highlighted, indicating the need for substantial additional research in this field. Ongoing investigation of the role of therapeutic monitoring of antithrombotic therapies will undoubtedly facilitate improved outcomes for dogs and cats at risk of thrombosis.
The Concept of Bureaucracy by Max Weber
Authors: Serpa Sandro , Ferreira Carlos Miguel
Published: January 2019

Bureaucracy is a widely disseminated concept in Sociology and in Organisational Theory studies, and it currently has an image where negative aspects are often highlighted. However, for Max Weber, bureaucracy has very specific features that differ, in varied situations, from the representation and application often ascribed to this model of organisational administration. This review aims at contributing to putting forward the concept of bureaucracy as initially proposed by Max Weber, discussing it in its potentialities.