bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circadian Rhythms Influence the Severity of Sepsis in Mice via a TLR2-Dependent, Leukocyte-Intrinsic Mechanism
Authors: Heipertz Erica L. , Harper Jourdan , Lopez Charlie A. , Fikrig Erol , Hughes Michael E. , Walker Wendy E.
Published: May 2018

Circadian rhythms coordinate an organism’s activities and biological processes to the optimal time in the 24-h daylight cycle. We previously demonstrated that male C57BL/6 mice develop sepsis more rapidly when the disease is induced in the nighttime versus the daytime. In this report, we elucidate the mechanism of this diurnal difference. Sepsis was induced via cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) at zeitgeber time (ZT)–19 (2 am) or ZT-7 (2 pm). Like the males used in our prior study, female C57BL/6 mice had a worse outcome when CLP was induced at ZT-19 versus ZT-7, and these effects persisted when we pooled the data from both sexes. In contrast, mice with a mutated Period 2 (Per2) gene had a similar outcome when CLP was induced at ZT-19 versus ZT-7. Bone marrow chimeras reconstituted with C57BL/6 immune cells exhibited a worse outcome when sepsis was induced at ZT-19 versus ZT-7, whereas chimeras with Per2-mutated immune cells did not. Next, murine macrophages were subjected to serum shock to synchronize circadian rhythms and exposed to bacteria cultured from the mouse cecum at 4-h intervals for 48 h. We observed that IL-6 production oscillated with a 24-h period in C57BL/6 cells exposed to cecal bacteria. Interestingly, we observed a similar pattern when cells were exposed to the TLR2 agonist lipoteichoic acid. Furthermore, TLR2-knockout mice exhibited a similar sepsis phenotype when CLP was induced at ZT-19 versus ZT-7. Together, these data suggest that circadian rhythms in immune cells mediate diurnal variations in murine sepsis severity via a TLR2-dependent mechanism.
Perinodal Adipose Tissue Participates in Immune Protection through a Lymphatic Vessel–Independent Route
Authors: Lin Yujia , Leung Glory , Louie Dante , Bogoslowski Ania , Ross James , Kubes Paul , von der Weid Pierre-Yves , Liao Shan
Published: May 2018

Lymphatic vessels remove and transport excess interstitial fluid to lymph nodes (LNs) for fluid balance and immune protection. LNs are typically surrounded by perinodal adipose tissue (PAT). However, PAT is a blood vessel–rich but lymphatic-rare tissue; therefore, how excess fluid in PAT is removed remains unclear. Using C57BL/6 mice, fluorescent dye tracing and transmission electron microscopy results suggest that fluid in PAT can travel to the LN via collagen I+ channels (PAT-LN conduits), merge into a collagen-rich space between the PAT and LN capsule (PAT-LN sinus), and may enter the LN via the LN capsule–associated conduits. This newly identified route of fluid flow allows fluid to enter the draining LN even when the afferent lymphatic vessels are blocked, indicating that fluid trafficking in PAT-LN conduits is not dependent on functional lymphatic vessels. Similar to lymphatic vessels, PAT-LN conduits can deliver Ags to the LN for immune protection. Additionally, Staphylococcus aureus from intradermal or i.v. infection may use PAT-LN conduits to infect PAT and stimulate PAT immune protection. Our studies revealed a new route of material exchange between PAT and the LN. Ag accumulation and bacterial infection in PAT demonstrate that PAT not only provides energy and regulatory factors, but can also directly participate in immune protection, indicating a new immune function of PAT for host immunity.
Safety comparison of over the counter bleaching with professionally prescribed home bleaching agent
Authors: Singh Japsimretjit Kaur Manjit , Sengut Masturah , Halim Mohamad Syahrizal , Ab-Ghani Zuryati , Rahman Normastura Abd
Published: May 2018

Aims: This aimed to compare the colour changes, microhardness, and surface roughness of the human natural tooth after bleaching treatment with a professional home bleaching agent and over-the-counter (OTC) bleaching agent. Settings and Design: This was an in vitro study using extracted human teeth stained with human blood as specimens. Materials and Methods: Fifty-seven human natural teeth were embedded in acrylic of 2.5 mm thickness and 14 mm × 8 mm surface area. The samples were stained with human blood before they were divided into three groups (n = 19 per group) of control (C), Professional Bleaching Opalescence PF 15% (PB), and OTC Whitelight Tooth Whitening set (WL) before being treated with the respective bleaching agents for 10 days. Color changes were measured as colorimetric measurements (L*, a*, and b* values) were recorded during prestaining, poststaining, and postbleaching, while microhardness and surface roughness measurements were recorded for pre- and postbleaching. Statistical Analysis: Statistical analysis was done with SPSS (IBM Statistic, California, USA) version 22.0. Paired t-test and nonparametric analysis (Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test) were used to analyze the data. P value was set as significant at P < 0.05. Results: The color changes in PB group was not significantly better compared with WL group (PB: 12.2 [4.07] and WL: 12.2 [4.32]). Whereas significant difference was noticed in microhardness after bleaching in PB group with a higher VHN number (500.4 [121.10]) compared with WL group (471.0 [114.47]) . The surface roughness (Ra) remain the same for all experimental groups. Conclusions: Both professional home bleaching agent and OTC bleaching agents showed similar efficacy, with no effect on surface roughness, and both caused an increase in microhardness.
Addressing Prescription Discrepancies in Renal Patients: A Prospective Audit
Authors: Lam S , Docherty S , Taylor JE
Published: May 2018

Background

Management of chronic renal failure requires complex medication regimens to manage hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, diabetes, phosphate, anaemia and acidosis. Patient engagement in medicine management is essential to avoid potential harm.

Methods

We prospectively audited the rate of discrepancies between our hospital record of patient medications and their current prescription. We investigated whether changes to appointment letters reduced the number of discrepancies.

Results

The proportion of patients attending renal outpatient clinics failing to bring a list or unable to recall their medications fell over a 3-year period following changes to appointment letters (median proportion: 0.45 in 2014, 0.36 in 2015, 0.30 in 2016, Chi-sq = 46.94, p < 0.001); percentage of patients forgetting to bring a list with significant prescription discrepancies fell from 10.9% in 2014 to 3.9% in 2016).

Conclusion

Changes to appointment letters can potentially improve prescribing safety in an outpatient setting.
An Outbreak of Japanese Encephalitis in a Non-Endemic Region of North-East India
Authors: McNaughton H , Singh A , Khan SA
Published: May 2018

Background

There are few comprehensive reports of epidemic Japanese encephalitis in a previously unaffected region. We report our experience of a first-ever outbreak of it in Sonitpur District, Assam, India, with 45 laboratory-confirmed cases at a single hospital.

Method

Between 2 July and 11 August 2008, patients meeting the WHO definition of acute encephalitis syndrome were assessed in a single hospital and had tests including blood and cerebrospinal fluid for Japanese encephalitis antibody titres.

Results

Ninety-six cases meeting the definition of acute encephalitis syndrome were identified with 45 cases of Japanese encephalitis confirmed by cerebrospinal fluid or blood results. For Japanese encephalitis positive patients, mean age was 36 (range 4-80). Of the 45, 11 (24%) died and a further 21 (47%) had significant residual deficits. Focal neurological signs (40%) and seizures (25%) were common.

Conclusion

An effective Japanese encephalitis vaccine is the key intervention for limiting the population impact of this disease. Identification of these cases led to a district-wide mass vaccination campaign.
An Incidental Finding of Severe Hyperferritinaemia: A Lesson to be Learned
Authors: Fretwell TB , Hanna M
Published: May 2018

Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is a rare, under-recognised and often misdiagnosed condition, characterised by a hyperinflammatory response to malignancy or infection. In this case, the cause was a bone marrow isolated anaplastic large cell lymphoma without radiological evidence of systemic disease, a phenomenon rarely described.

We present the case of a previously fit and well 64-year-old female who presented on multiple occasions to primary and secondary care in a stable condition with an undifferentiated illness with the only consistent feature being a marked, unexplained hyperferritinaemia. The history highlights the importance of ferritin as a marker of phagocytic activity and how severely high levels, even in the well patient, should prompt early bone marrow biopsy. The prognosis of haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is invariably poor as the condition is usually secondary to a serious underlying disease such as haematological malignancy as in this case., The diagnostic difficulty often leads to delayed recognition and treatment.
Disseminated Herpes Simplex Virus: A Case of Eczema Herpeticum Causing Viral Encephalitis
Authors: Finlow C , Thomas J
Published: May 2018

Eczema herpeticum is a dermatological emergency causing a mortality of up to 10% if untreated. It frequently presents in a localised form and rarely disseminates via haematogenous spread with pulmonary, hepatic, ocular and neurological manifestations. Although it commonly appears on a background of atopic dermatitis, many other dermatological conditions have been described preceding this disease. Eczema herpeticum can be easily mistaken for folliculitis and is often treated accordingly with antibacterial drugs; therefore patients will often deteriorate before a diagnosis of eczema herpeticum has been considered.
The Scottish Academic Foundation Year Programme: What, Why and How?
Authors: Currie GP , Messeder S , Walker K
Published: May 2018

The Foundation Programme is well established in the UK and serves as the generic training scheme into which newly qualified doctors enter after gaining a medical degree. Although individual programmes have many differences, the range of competencies needing to be fulfilled to progress is uniform across Scotland and the rest of the UK. Some final year medical undergraduates may apply for the Academic Foundation Programme; this is designed to facilitate exposure to academic medicine over and above the clinical experience offered to Foundation Year doctors. This paper describes characteristics of the Academic Foundation Programme in general, with a particular focus on Scotland, which is one Foundation School.
The Uk Academic Foundation Programmes: Are the Objectives Being Met?
Authors: Ologunde R , Sismey G , Kelley T
Published: May 2018

Background

Since the Academic Foundation Programme was established in the UK in 2005 a number of trainees have participated in this programme; however, there are few published national data on the experiences of these academic trainees. We aimed to assess the perceived value and challenges of training on the AFP.

Methods

In March 2017, an anonymous electronic questionnaire was distributed to all Academic Foundation Programme trainees in the UK, via their local foundation school administrators.

Results

Fifty-six respondents completed the survey from 9 out of the 15 Academic Units of Application. Of these, 82% were undertaking a research based Academic Foundation Programme; however, 41% reported not having access to any training on research methods and governance. Sixty-six percent reported they were aware of the aims and expected outcomes of the Academic Foundation Programme, but the self-reported achievement of academic compendium outcomes was relatively low. Sixty-three percent rated the quality of their experience on the Academic Foundation Programme as excellent or good and 75% reported that they intended to continue in academia. Most trainees (64%) reported that the completion of a postgraduate qualification as part of their Academic Foundation Programme would improve the programme.

Conclusion

The Academic Foundation Programme plays a valuable role in trainees’ development and preparing them for a career in academia. However, the objectives of the programme are currently not being uniformly achieved. Furthermore, trainees feel there remains room for improvement in the design of the Programme.
Observation of Kelvin–Helmholtz instabilities and gravity waves in the summer mesopause above Andenes in Northern Norway
Authors: Stober Gunter , Sommer Svenja , Schult Carsten , Latteck Ralph , Chau Jorge L.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. We present observations obtained with the Middle Atmosphere Alomar Radar System (MAARSY) to investigate short-period wave-like features using polar mesospheric summer echoes (PMSEs) as a tracer for the neutral dynamics. We conducted a multibeam experiment including 67 different beam directions during a 9-day campaign in June 2013. We identified two Kelvin–Helmholtz instability (KHI) events from the signal morphology of PMSE. The MAARSY observations are complemented by collocated meteor radar wind data to determine the mesoscale gravity wave activity and the vertical structure of the wind field above the PMSE. The KHIs occurred in a strong shear flow with Richardson numbers Ri < 0.25. In addition, we observed 15 wave-like events in our MAARSY multibeam observations applying a sophisticated decomposition of the radial velocity measurements using volume velocity processing. We retrieved the horizontal wavelength, intrinsic frequency, propagation direction, and phase speed from the horizontally resolved wind variability for 15 events. These events showed horizontal wavelengths between 20 and 40 km, vertical wavelengths between 5 and 10 km, and rather high intrinsic phase speeds between 45 and 85 m s−1 with intrinsic periods of 5–10 min.
GOME-2A retrievals of tropospheric NO2 in different spectral ranges – influence of penetration depth
Authors: Behrens Lisa K. , Hilboll Andreas , Richter Andreas , Peters Enno , Eskes Henk , Burrows John P.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. In this study, we present a novel nitrogen dioxide (NO2) differential optical absorption spectroscopy (DOAS) retrieval in the ultraviolet (UV) spectral range for observations from the Global Ozone Monitoring Instrument 2 on board EUMETSAT's MetOp-A (GOME-2A) satellite. We compare the results to those from an established NO2 retrieval in the visible (vis) spectral range from the same instrument and investigate how differences between the two are linked to the NO2 vertical profile shape in the troposphere.As expected, radiative transfer calculations for satellite geometries show that the sensitivity close to the ground is higher in the vis than in the UV spectral range. Consequently, NO2 slant column densities (SCDs) in the vis are usually higher than in the UV if the NO2 is close to the surface. Therefore, these differences in NO2 SCDs between the two spectral ranges contain information on the vertical distribution of NO2 in the troposphere. We combine these results with radiative transfer calculations and simulated NO2 fields from the TM5-MP chemistry transport model to evaluate the simulated NO2 vertical distribution.We investigate regions representative of both anthropogenic and biomass burning NO2 pollution. Anthropogenic air pollution is mostly located in the boundary layer close to the surface, which is reflected by large differences between UV and vis SCDs of  ∼  60 %. Biomass burning NO2 in contrast is often uplifted into elevated layers above the boundary layer. This is best seen in tropical Africa south of the Equator, where the biomass burning NO2 is well observed in the UV, and the SCD difference between the two spectral ranges is only  ∼  36 %. In tropical Africa north of the Equator, however, the biomass burning NO2 is located closer to the ground, reducing its visibility in the UV.While not enabling a full retrieval of the vertical NO2 profile shape in the troposphere, our results can help to constrain the vertical profile of NO2 in the lower troposphere and, when analysed together with simulated NO2 fields, can help to better interpret the model output.
An improved parameterization of leaf area index (LAI) seasonality in the Canadian Land Surface Scheme (CLASS) and Canadian Terrestrial Ecosystem Model (CTEM) modelling framework
Authors: Asaadi Ali , Arora Vivek K. , Melton Joe R. , Bartlett Paul
Published: May 2018

Abstract. Leaf area index (LAI) and its seasonal dynamics are key determinants of vegetation productivity in nature and as represented in terrestrial biosphere models seeking to understand land-surface atmosphere flux dynamics and its response to climate change. Non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs) and their seasonal variability are known to play a crucial role in seasonal variation of leaf phenology and growth and functioning of plants. The carbon stored in NSC pools provides a buffer during times when supply and demand of carbon are asynchronous. An example of this role is illustrated when NSCs from previous years are used to initiate leaf onset at the arrival of favourable weather conditions. In this study, we incorporate NSC pools and associated parameterizations of new processes in the modelling framework of the Canadian Land Surface Scheme-Canadian Terrestrial Ecosystem Model (CLASS-CTEM) with an aim to improve the seasonality of simulated LAI. The performance of these new parameterizations is evaluated by comparing simulated LAI and atmosphere-land CO2 fluxes, to their observation-based estimates, at three sites characterized by broadleaf cold deciduous trees selected from the Fluxnet database. Results show an improvement in leaf onset and offset times with about 2 weeks shift towards earlier times during the year in better agreement with observations. These improvements in simulated LAI help to improve the simulated seasonal cycle of gross primary productivity (GPP) and as a result simulated net ecosystem productivity (NEP) as well.
Greenhouse gas production in degrading ice-rich permafrost deposits in northeast
Siberia
Authors: Walz Josefine , Knoblauch Christian , Tigges Ronja , Opel Thomas , Schirrmeister Lutz , Pfeiffer Eva-Maria
Published: May 2018

Abstract. Permafrost deposits have been a sink for atmospheric carbon for millennia. Thaw-erosional processes, however, can lead to rapid degradation of ice-rich permafrost and the release of substantial amounts of organic carbon (OC). The amount of the OC stored in these deposits and their potential to be microbially decomposed to the greenhouse gases carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) depends on climatic and environmental conditions during deposition and the decomposition history before incorporation into the permafrost. Here, we examine potential greenhouse gas production in degrading ice-rich permafrost deposits from three locations in the northeast Siberian Laptev Sea region. The deposits span a period of about 55 kyr and include deposits from the last glacial and Holocene interglacial periods. Samples from all three locations were aerobically and anaerobically incubated for 134 days at 4 °C. Greenhouse gas production was generally higher in glacial than Holocene deposits. In permafrost deposits from the Holocene and the late glacial transition, only 0.1–4.0 % of the initially available OC could be decomposed to CO2, while 0.2–6.1 % could be decomposed in glacial deposits. Within the glacial deposits from the Kargin interstadial period (Marine Isotope Stage 3), local depositional environments, especially soil moisture, also affected the preservation of OC. Sediments deposited under wet conditions contained more labile OC and thus produced more greenhouse gases than sediments deposited under drier conditions. To assess the long-term production potentials, deposits from two locations were incubated for a total of 785 days. However, more than 50 % of the aerobically produced and more than 80 % of anaerobically produced CO2 after 785 days of incubation were already produced within the first 134 days, highlighting the quantitative importance of the slowly decomposing OC pool in permafrost. CH4 production was generally observed in active layer samples but only sporadically in permafrost samples and was several orders of magnitude smaller than CO2 production.
Lowlands fluvial sedimentation enlightens glacial dynamics in narrow valleys during the Last Glacial Maximum (Venetian Forealps, Italy)
Authors: Rossato Sandro , Carraro Anna , Monegato Giovanni , Mozzi Paolo , Tateo Fabio
Published: May 2018

Abstract. During the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), most of the major glaciated basins of the European Southern Alps had piedmont lobes with large outwash plains; only few glaciers remained within the valley. The formers left well-preserved terminal moraines, whose investigation allowed to infer their evolution and chronology. Valley glaciers remnants, on the contrary, are often scantly preserved and changes can be detected only through the correlation with the glaciofluvial deposits in downstream alluvial basins. The Brenta glacial systems dynamics in its terminal tract was inferred through a wide range of sediment analysis techniques on an alluvial stratigraphic record of the Brenta megafan (NE Italy) and the mapping of in-valley glacial/glaciofluvial remnants. Glaciers flowing across narrow gorges turned out to be possibly slowed/blocked by such morphology and, if a lateral valley exists, glacial/sediment fluxes can be diverted. Moreover, narrow valleys may induce glaciers to bulge and form icefalls at their front, preventing the formation of terminal moraines. The Brenta glacier was probably slowed/blocked by the narrow Valsugana gorge downstream of Primolano and was effectively diverted eastwards across a windgap (Canal La Menor valley), joining the Cismon/Piave glaciers near Rocca and ending ~ 2 km downstream. The Cismon River started to flow along its present path just before 27 ka cal BP, while the Piave catchment contributed to the Brenta system at the acme of LGM, from ~ 27 to, at least, ~ 19.5 ka cal BP. Our investigation shows that glacial catchments may significantly vary over time during a single glaciation in rugged Alpine terrains. Sand petrography and chemical/mineralogical composition of sediments are good tracer of such variations, that reflects in the glacial and glaciofluvial systems and can be recognized in the alluvial stratigraphic record far downstream from the glacier front.
Ptolemy's Britain and Ireland: A New Digital Reconstruction
Authors: Abshire Corey , Durham Anthony , Gusev Dmitri A. , Stafeyev Sergey K.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. In this paper, we expand application of our mathematical methods for translating ancient coordinates from the classical Geography by Claudius Ptolemy into modern coordinates from India and Arabia to Britain and Ireland, historically important islands on the periphery of the ancient Roman Empire. The methods include triangulation and flocking with subsequent Bayesian correction. The results of our work can be conveniently visualized in modern GIS tools, such as ArcGIS, QGIS, and Google Earth. The enhancements we have made include a novel technique for handling tentatively identified points. We compare the precision of reconstruction achieved for Ptolemy's Britain and Ireland with the precisions that we had computed earlier for his India before the Ganges and three provinces of Arabia. We also provide improved validation and comparison amongst the methods applied. We compare our results with the prior work, while utilizing knowledge from such important ancient sources as the Antonine Itinerary, Tabula Peutingeriana, and the Ravenna Cosmography. The new digital reconstruction of Claudius Ptolemy's Britain and Ireland presented in this paper, along with the accompanying linguistic analysis of ancient toponyms, contributes to improvement of understanding of our cultural cartographic heritage by making it easier to study the ancient world using the popular and accessible GIS programs.
Enhanced pore space analysis by use of μ-CT, MIP, NMR, and SIP
Authors: Zhang Zeyu , Kruschwitz Sabine , Weller Andreas , Halisch Matthias
Published: May 2018

Abstract. We investigate the pore space of rock samples with respect to different petrophysical parameters using various methods, which provide data upon pore size distributions, including micro computed tomography (μ-CT), mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and spectral induced polarization (SIP). The resulting cumulative distributions of pore volume as a function of pore size are compared. Considering that the methods differ with regard to their limits of resolution, a multiple length scale characterization of the pore space geometry is proposed, that is based on a combination of the results from all of these methods. The approach is demonstrated using samples of Bentheimer and Röttbacher sandstone. Additionally, we compare the potential of SIP to provide a pore size distribution with other commonly used methods (MIP, NMR). The limits of resolution of SIP depend on the usable frequency range (between 0.002 Hz and 100 Hz). The methods with similar resolution show a similar behavior of the cumulative pore volume distribution in the overlapping pore size range. We assume that μ-CT and NMR provide the pore body size while MIP and SIP characterize the pore throat size. Our study shows that a good agreement between the pore radii distributions can only be achieved if the curves are adjusted considering the resolution and pore volume in the relevant range of pore radii. The MIP curve with the widest range in resolution should be used as reference.
The Factors Influencing Technical College Students to Choose English-Learning Websites
Authors: Lin Yi-Chien , Lin Mei-Miao , Li Chiung-Li
Published: May 2018

The aim of the study is to examine the factors that influence technical college students to choose English-learning websites. The subjects were 165 students from a technical college in Southern Taiwan. The instrument was a questionnaire with three factors about choosing English-learning websites. One hundred sixty-five subjects completed a 10-minute questionnaire about English-learning websites in March 2017. The researchers collected the data from the questionnaire and analyzed the data using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The results revealed that most subjects stated that they liked to learn English, but went online to learn English less than one hour per week, and most subjects agreed that learning English online was helpful and English was important for their work and academy. The results also showed that most subjects believed English was related to a higher salary and future promotions, and they planned to improve their English. In addition, the results indicated that the subjects paid more attention to the practicality and convenience of an English-learning website than to the enjoyment of it. In this paper, the researchers draw conclusions and discuss the teaching and research implications for the future.
The Impact of Education and Training, Work Discipline and Organizational Culture on Employee’s Performance: The Study of Disaster Management and Fire Department in Palembang City, Indonesia
Authors: Idris Muhammad
Published: May 2018

This study aims to investigate the impact of education and training, work discipline and organizational culture on employee’s performance. The study is conducted at the Disaster Management and Fire Department Office in Palembang City, Indonesia. There are seven offices of disaster management and fire department officials in all over Palembang city and the total population is 360 firefighters. The sample size is 154 respondents that are taken proportionately from each office. A survey research using questionnaire is employed to collect the data. The variables are education and training (X1), work discipline (X2), organizational culture (X3) and employees’ performance (Y). Technology and labor force changes, service and performance improvement and rules’ adjustment are indicators for education and training. Remuneration, supervision, and firmness are indicators for work discipline. Innovation, people oriented and composure are indicators for organizational culture. Working standard, work equipment and tool and work opportunity are indicators for employees’ performance. A regression equation model is employed. The result reveals that there is a positive and significant effect of education and training, work discipline and organizational culture on employee’s performance.
Historical Prevalence of Radiological Appendicular Osteoarthritis in Cats (1972–1973)
Authors: Godfrey David , Vaughan Leslie
Published: May 2018

Interest in feline osteoarthritis has grown recently; this might be due to increased prevalence or increased awareness. This study records the presence of appendicular osteoarthritis in a subset of the United Kingdom cat population in the 1970s and estimates its prevalence. One hundred cats euthanized in 1972–1973 had a series of skeletal radiographic images taken post mortem. Each joint was put into a set with or without osteoarthritis according to the presence or absence of a specified set of radiographic features. Limited historical data were analyzed. The prevalence of osteoarthritis in these cats was 74%. There is no evidence that feline osteoarthritis is a “novel” disease. The prevalence was similar to recent prospective radiological surveys. Recent interest in the condition may have derived from more attention being paid to feline medicine and welfare.
La Guerra Fría y el período de distensión Causas y consecuencias en el sistema internacional bipolar
Authors: Villegas Hernández Patricio
Published: May 2018

Durante la segunda mitad del siglo xx, Estados Unidos y la Unión Soviética protagonizaron una carrera armamentista que amenazó seriamente la seguridad mundial. Ante la imperiosa necesidad de reducir tensiones y generar condiciones de confianza mutua en el marco de la Guerra Fría, las relaciones entre ambas superpotencias experimentaron un período de distensión, caracterizado principalmente por la configuración de relaciones bilaterales que modificaron la dinámica internacional y favorecieron el tratamiento cordial, el compromiso y la cooperación mutua. La coyuntura predicha determinó una reconsideración de la política exterior de las dos grandes potencias en el marco de una lucha por el predominio de un sistema sobre otro. Dicha reconsideración política impactó en Europa, América Latina y Medio Oriente, evidenciando intereses ulteriores de las dos superpotencias en el gran tablero mundial.Revista ciencia, cultura y sociedad Vol. 4 No. 1 enero-junio 2017; 25-37
College English Curriculum Group: The Construction Based on Needs Analysis
Authors: Zhang Jianfeng
Published: May 2018

The rapid development of society and economy is not only the opportunity but also the challenge of the college English teaching in China. Nowadays, traditional college English curriculum, with its monotonous content and musty teaching principles, can hardly activate learners’ motivation, because the curriculum design neglects learners’ needs. Therefore, instrument, humanity and profession should be integrated in English education and college English curriculum group has been designed and constructed. In this curriculum system, based on the learners’ needs analysis, EGP and ESP are combined; and on the Internet platform that makes use of educational resources, a new mode of English Instruction, “online teaching + traditional teaching + autonomous inquiry + discussion”, has been explored; the comprehensive assessment system and reasonable teacher structures are designed so that learners’ motivation can be activated and the practical ability of foreign language can be improved significantly.
Code-Switching: A Useful Foreign Language Teaching Tool in EFL Classrooms
Authors: Bhatti Aisha , Shamsudin Sarimah , Said Seriaznita Binti Mat
Published: May 2018

In every society, language plays a vital role in communicating with each other as it allows speakers to expand their knowledge, deliver their ideas, opinions and feelings in the society. English, as a global language, provides a platform for communication for people who speak the language. Due to the growing trend in linguistic globalisation, bilingualism has become a very common phenomenon in today’s world. In bilingual communities all over the world, speakers frequently switch from one language to another to meet communication demands. This phenomenon of alternation between languages is known as code-switching. The present study aims to focus on the teachers’ use of code-switching as a language teaching tool in EFL classrooms in Pakistan. It also deals with the functions and types of code-switching in EFL classrooms. Four EFL speaking skill classes were observed, and audio was recorded and transcribed to analyse why and how code-switching was used in the classrooms. The analysis of classroom interaction transcripts revealed that teachers code-switched to maintain discipline, translate new words and build solidarity and intimate relationships with the students before, during and after the lessons. The study found that code-switching from L2 to L1 in the speaking classes did occur although English remained as the main medium of instruction. All the teachers consciously code-switched throughout their lectures. Teachers also code switched to Urdu after the lectures. Three types of code-switching occurred during the EFL classes: tag-switching, intra-sentential code-switching and inter-sentential switching. Hence, code-switching is a useful teaching tool in EFL classrooms to facilitate teaching and learning.
The Use of Basket and Cross Shell Reinforcement in Revision Acetabulum Arthroplasty
Authors: Pozowski Andrzej , Kowal Mateusz , Pozowski Patryk , Paprocka-Borowicz Małgorzata
Published: May 2018

Background. In spite of many decades of experience and huge data resources to evaluate the results of increasingly difficult and extensive acetabulum revision operations, it is not possible to obtain fully satisfactory results. This article presents the indications for use, surgical technique, and distant and intermediate-range results in the operation of replacing a loosened acetabular component of an endoprosthesis with accompanying extensive cavitary or segmental floor defects.
Material and methods. A retrospective evaluation was performed on 65 hips in 55 patients, including bila­teral procedures in 8 women and 2 men, operated on between 1994 and 2012. The mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was 66 +/- 16 years. The average duration of follow-up was 9 years and 3 months.
Results. Clinical results at 36 months from the surgery showed that the Harris Hip Score had increased by a mean of 47.2 HHS points and the WOMAC index had increased by 37.7 points.
Conclusions. 1. The use of the method described in the article in selected cases produces good and excellent results, especially with the use of double reinforcement. 2. A basic prerequisite for the use of the basket is stable support for at least 3 arms of the basket on the acetabular bone reinforcement ring and good protection of grafts in the bone stock with sufficient biological capacity.
The power and paradoxes of PISA: Should Inquiry-Based Science Education be sacrificed to climb on the rankings?
Authors: Sjøberg Svein
Published: May 2018

Since publication of the first PISA results in 2001, the PISA scores have become a kind of global “gold standard” for educational quality. Climbing on the international PISA rankings have become a high priority for national educational policies world-wide, also in the Nordic countries. This article first explores why and how the OECD, with PISA as the main instrument, has emerged as the key defining organization for educational quality and policy. Some of the underlying assumptions, ideologies and values are critiqued. Secondly, the article draws attention to PISA findings that are surprising, unexpected and problematic. The most problematic finding for science education is that PISA-scores correlate negatively with nearly all aspects of inquiry-based science teaching (IBSE), the kind of teaching that is recommended by scientists as well as science educators.
Las estadísticas de juego y la previsión de éxito entre los equipos de la Liga Portuguesa de Basquetebol
Authors: Janeira M. A. , Guimarães E.
Published: May 2018

Fueron analizados 19 indicadores estadísticos, recogidos en los 110 partidos de la primera fase de la Temporada Regular y en los 28 partidos de los Playoffs de la Liga Portuguesa de Basquetebol (LPB), de la temporada 2015/2016, con el objetivo de determinar cuáles son los indicadores del juego que mejor predicen el éxito de los equipos (definido por el porcentaje de éxito). El análisis de la regresión múltiple, mostró que la media de rebotes defensivos por partido y la media de lanzamientos de 2 puntos anotados por partido, fueron los mejores predictores del éxito de los equipos en la primera fase de la temporada regular, explicando 96,8% de la varianza del porcentaje de éxito. En los partidos de Playoff, los resultados mostraron que la media de rebotes defensivos por partido fue el único predictor del éxito de los equipos en esta fase de la competición, explicando un total de 53,5% de la varianza del porcentaje de éxito. Los resultados de estudio muestran que el éxito en las diferentes fases de la LPB está más asociado a la dimensión defensiva del juego.

 

 
Valoración del punto de no retorno en el tiempo de elección bajo condiciones de incertidumbre en el pase en baloncesto
Authors: Quílez Maimón A. , Rojas Ruiz F. J.
Published: May 2018

Los objetivos del estudio fueron analizar como afectaba la incertidumbre a los Tiempos de Reacción (TR), y la evaluación del Punto de No Retorno (PdNR). Participaron diez jugadores experimentados. Se utilizaron LEDs para proyectar objetivos/targets en pantallas. Al encenderse el LED los participantes debían pasar hacia el objetivo/target lo más rápido posible para evaluar sus TRs. En la fase segunda y durante el Tiempo de Movimiento (TM) del pase el objetivo/target podía cambiar aleatoriamente a otra posición en cinco instantes con un retraso progresivo dependiendo del TR y TM de cada jugador. Los resultados indicaron que la incertidumbre incrementa TR, pero no afecta TM. Cuando se retrasó el cambio de objetivo/target, no cambiaron ni TR ni TM, pero aparecieron errores. El PdNR se determinó en 2/5TM+TR, dado que los errores se dispararon a partir de ahí. Se sugiere continuar el estudio para definir un entrenamiento que disminuya errores y TRs.
Adaptive genetic variation at three loci in South African vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus pygerythrus) and the role of selection within Primates
Authors: Coetzer Willem G , Turner Trudy R , Schmitt Christopher A , Grobler J Paul
Published: May 2018

Vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus pygerythrus) are one of the most widely distributed non-human primate species found in South Africa. They occur across all the South African provinces, inhabiting a large variety of habitats. These habitats vary sufficiently that it can be assumed that various factors such as pathogen diversity could influence populations in different ways. In turn, these factors could lead to varied levels of selection at specific fitness linked loci. The Toll-like Receptor (TLR) gene family, which play an integral role in vertebrate innate immunity, is a group of fitness linked loci which has been the focus of much research. In this study, we assessed the level of genetic variation at partial sequences of two TLR loci (TLR4 and 7) and a reproductively linked gene, acrosin (ACR), across the different habitat types within the vervet monkey distribution range. Gene variation and selection estimates were also made among 11 – 21 primate species. Low levels of genetic variation for all three gene regions were observed within vervet monkeys , with only two polymorphic sites identified for TLR4, three sites for TLR7 and one site for ACR . TLR7 variation was positively correlated with high mean annual rainfall, which was linked to increased pathogen abundance. The observed genetic variation at TLR4 might have been influenced by numerous factors including pathogens and climatic conditions. The ACR exonic regions showed no variation in vervet monkeys, which could point to the occurrence of a selective sweep. The TLR4 and TLR7 results for the among primate analyses was mostly in line with previous studies, indicating a higher rate of evolution for TLR4. Within primates, ACR coding regions also showed signs of positive selection, which was congruent with previous reports on mammals. Important additional information to the already existing vervet monkey knowledge base was gained from this study, which can guide future research projects on this highly researched taxon as well as help conservation agencies with future management planning involving possible translocations of this species.
Scaling up DNA metabarcoding for freshwater macrozoobenthos monitoring
Authors: Elbrecht Vasco , Steinke Dirk
Published: May 2018

The viability of DNA metabarcoding for assessment of freshwater macrozoobenthos has been demonstrated over the past years. It matured to a stage where it can be applied to monitoring at a large scale, keeping pace with increased high throughput sequencing (HTS) capacity. However, workflows and sample tagging need to be optimized to accommodate for hundreds of samples within a single sequencing run. We here conceptualize a streamlined metabarcoding workflow, in which samples are processed in 96-well plates. Each sample is replicated starting with tissue extraction. Negative and positive controls are included to ensure data reliability. With our newly developed fusion primer sets for the BF2+BR2 primer pair up to three 96-well plates (288 wells) can be uniquely tagged for a single Illumina sequencing run. By including Illumina indices, tagging can be extended to thousands of samples. We hope that our metabarcoding workflow will be used as a practical guide for future large-scale biodiversity assessments involving freshwater invertebrates. However, we also want to point out that this is just one possible metabarcoding approach, and that we hope this article will stimulate discussion and publication of alternatives and extensions.
Computational prediction of CTCF/cohesin-based intra-TAD loops that insulate chromatin contacts and gene expression in mouse liver
Authors: Matthews Bryan J , Waxman David J
Published: May 2018

CTCF and cohesin are key drivers of 3D-nuclear organization, anchoring the megabase-scale Topologically Associating Domains (TADs) that segment the genome. Here, we present and validate a computational method to predict cohesin-and-CTCF binding sites that form intra-TAD DNA loops. The intra-TAD loop anchors identified are structurally indistinguishable from TAD anchors regarding binding partners, sequence conservation, and resistance to cohesin knockdown; further, the intra-TAD loops retain key functional features of TADs, including chromatin contact insulation, blockage of repressive histone mark spread, and ubiquity across tissues. We propose that intra-TAD loops form by the same loop extrusion mechanism as the larger TAD loops, and that their shorter length enables finer regulatory control in restricting enhancer-promoter interactions, which enables selective, high-level expression of gene targets of super-enhancers and genes located within repressive nuclear compartments. These findings elucidate the role of intra-TAD cohesin-and-CTCF binding in nuclear organization associated with widespread insulation of distal enhancer activity.
Septal secretion of protein A in Staphylococcus aureus requires SecA and lipoteichoic acid synthesis
Authors: Yu Wenqi , Missiakas Dominique , Schneewind Olaf
Published: May 2018

Surface proteins of Staphylococcus aureus are secreted across septal membranes for assembly into the bacterial cross-wall. This localized secretion requires the YSIRK/GXXS motif signal peptide, however the mechanisms supporting precursor trafficking are not known. We show here that the signal peptide of staphylococcal protein A (SpA) is cleaved at the YSIRK/GXXS motif. A SpA signal peptide mutant defective for YSIRK/GXXS cleavage is also impaired for septal secretion and co-purifies with SecA, SecDF and LtaS. SecA depletion blocks precursor targeting to septal membranes, whereas deletion of secDF diminishes SpA secretion into the cross-wall. Depletion of LtaS blocks lipoteichoic acid synthesis and abolishes SpA precursor trafficking to septal membranes. We propose a model whereby SecA directs SpA precursors to lipoteichoic acid-rich septal membranes for YSIRK/GXXS motif cleavage and secretion into the cross-wall.
Autistic traits, but not schizotypy, predict increased weighting of sensory information in Bayesian visual integration
Authors: Karvelis Povilas , Seitz Aaron R , Lawrie Stephen M , Seriès Peggy
Published: May 2018

Recent theories propose that schizophrenia/schizotypy and autistic spectrum disorder are related to impairments in Bayesian inference that is, how the brain integrates sensory information (likelihoods) with prior knowledge. However existing accounts fail to clarify: (i) how proposed theories differ in accounts of ASD vs. schizophrenia and (ii) whether the impairments result from weaker priors or enhanced likelihoods. Here, we directly address these issues by characterizing how 91 healthy participants, scored for autistic and schizotypal traits, implicitly learned and combined priors with sensory information. This was accomplished through a visual statistical learning paradigm designed to quantitatively assess variations in individuals’ likelihoods and priors. The acquisition of the priors was found to be intact along both traits spectra. However, autistic traits were associated with more veridical perception and weaker influence of expectations. Bayesian modeling revealed that this was due, not to weaker prior expectations, but to more precise sensory representations.
The plant-specific transcription factors CBP60g and SARD1 are targeted by a Verticillium secretory protein VdSCP41 to modulate immunity
Authors: Qin Jun , Wang Kailun , Sun Lifan , Xing Haiying , Wang Sheng , Li Lin , Chen She , Guo Hui-Shan , Zhang Jie
Published: May 2018

The vascular pathogen Verticillium dahliae infects the roots of plants to cause Verticillium wilt. The molecular mechanisms underlying V. dahliae virulence and host resistance remain elusive. Here, we demonstrate that a secretory protein, VdSCP41, functions as an intracellular effector that promotes V. dahliae virulence. The Arabidopsis master immune regulators CBP60g and SARD1 and cotton GhCBP60b are targeted by VdSCP41. VdSCP41 binds the C-terminal portion of CBP60g to inhibit its transcription factor activity. Further analyses reveal a transcription activation domain within CBP60g that is required for VdSCP41 targeting. Mutations in both CBP60g and SARD1 compromise Arabidopsis resistance against V. dahliae and partially impair VdSCP41-mediated virulence. Moreover, virus-induced silencing of GhCBP60b compromises cotton resistance to V. dahliae. This work uncovers a virulence strategy in which the V. dahliae secretory protein VdSCP41 directly targets plant transcription factors to inhibit immunity, and reveals CBP60g, SARD1 and GhCBP60b as crucial components governing V. dahliae resistance.
Organizational Professionalism: Social Workers Negotiating Tools of NPM
Authors: Mik-Meyer Nanna
Published: May 2018

This article examines how social workers and managers perceive meaningful work and expertise in six care and treatment facilities in Denmark. Based on 29 interviews with social workers (n=22) and managers (n=7), the article shows how New Public Management-inspired tools such as scoring schemas align with social work values such as “client-centeredness” and working with the individual welfare recipient face-to-face. The article finds that fitting social work into organizational schemas changes the work practices of social workers and also the way members of this profession define meaningful work and expertise. In addition, the article also finds that scoring schemas cause conflicts among social workers regarding the character of expertise when values of social work (to meet a welfare recipient’s need) must be aligned with NPM-inspired values of organizations (to meet managers’ demand for documentation).