bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and psychometric properties of the Attitudes Toward Intellectual Disability Questionnaire – Short Form
Authors: Morin D. , Valois P. , Crocker A. G. , Robitaille C.
Published: January 2019

Background

Understanding public attitudes towards people with intellectual disability (ID) can help orient activities to promote the social inclusion of this group. The ATTitudes toward Intellectual Disability (ATTID) questionnaire is a validated 67‐item tool used to assess attitudes towards people with ID from a multidimensional perspective. It is based on a five‐factor model tapping into cognitive, emotional and behavioural components of attitudes. In order to facilitate international research, the goal of this study was to develop a short version that would retain the long form's psychometric properties.

Methods

Analyses were conducted on a sample of 1608 respondents who completed the full‐length ATTID. A four‐step test refinement procedure was used to reduce the number of items. The first two steps involved a Cronbach's alpha analysis. Items retained were then reviewed to assess face validity. Correlations between factors were calculated, and a factor analysis was performed to compare the original and short forms.

Results

The number of items in the ATTID was reduced from 67 to 35. The short form maintained good overall reliability. The correlational pattern between factors in both the long and short form is generally the same. The factor analysis of the short form showed a similar five‐factor structure with some loss of variance.

Conclusions

We recommend the short form be used when administration time is an issue, particularly in a research context. Replication studies with new samples are needed to further assess the psychometric properties of the ATTID‐Short Form.
Estimating Trend Inflation Based on Unobserved Components Model: Is It Correlated with the Inflation Gap?
Authors: HWU SHIH‐TANG , KIM CHANG‐JIN
Published: January 2019

Building on the work of Stock and Watson (2007), this paper empirically shows that a negative correlation between innovations to trend inflation and the inflation gap plays an important role in the dynamics of postwar U.S. inflation. Additional features that we incorporate in our model include regime‐switching inflation gap persistence and association between inflation and inflation uncertainty. The resulting estimate of trend inflation is smooth, and our model provides superior out‐of‐sample forecasts than Stock and Watson's (2007) unobserved components model with stochastic volatility or than Atkeson and Ohanian's (2001) random walk model does.
The Effects of Financial Education on Financial Literacy and Savings Behavior: Evidence from a Controlled Field Experiment in Dutch Primary Schools
Authors: Kalwij Adriaan , Alessie Rob , Dinkova Milena , Schonewille Gea , van der Schors Anna , van der Werf Minou
Published: January 2019

This article reports the results of a controlled field experiment designed to estimate the short‐term effects of a 45‐minute financial education program on the financial literacy and savings behavior of children in Dutch primary schools. Among fifth and sixth graders, the program led to a pre‐ to posttest improvement in financial literacy on almost one of eight questions, with about one‐third of the increase in correctness attributable to the program. It also raised the probability of willingness to save by 4 percentage points. Nonetheless, whereas the program appears effective in respect to questions that explicitly address program content, its significant effects on financial literacy seem primarily driven by the results for girls, although we cannot reject homogeneous treatment effects with respect to gender.
Educational diagnosis of self‐management behaviours in patients with diabetes mellitus, hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia based on the PRECEDE model: Qualitative study
Authors: Gorina Marta , Limonero Joaquín T. , Álvarez María
Published: January 2019

Aims and objectives

To identify the key factors of adopting self‐care behaviours in the treatment of diabetes mellitus II, hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia when the three conditions appear simultaneously.

Background

Diabetes, hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia are chronic health problems which often appear together. The correct monitoring of these pathologies when they concur simultaneously requires specific health management behaviours, to which a significant part of the population is unable of adhering, despite recommendations from professional healthcare workers.

Design

A qualitative study using focus groups techniques was carried out. The elements related to the content were drafted following the recommendations of the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ checklist).

Methods

Patients with simultaneous diabetes, hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia, as well as nursing professionals and family doctors who have treated patients at primary care centres, were the key sources of information. The methodology used to analyse the information was content analysis.

Results

There were factors which can positively or negatively determine the adoption of the self‐management recommendations that healthcare professionals make to patients who simultaneously have diabetes, hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia. These factors were not only associated with the patient, but also with the health carers themselves and the healthcare system and policies in force.

Conclusions

When health professionals provide recommendations for self‐care to people diagnosed with diabetes, hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia simultaneously, they should bear in mind not only the determinants of behaviour associated with the patient, but also those that are related to the health professionals themselves and with the healthcare system. The PRECEDE model could be a good tool to identify and design health education programs.

Relevance to clinical practice

The knowledge of the determinants of health behaviour of patients with chronic diseases could improve adherence patients to health recommendations, avoid associated complications and increase their quality of life.
Dental occlusion and body balance: A question of environmental constraints?
Authors: Julià‐Sánchez Sonia , Álvarez‐Herms Jesús , Burtscher Martin
Published: January 2019

Background

In the past few years, growing interest was given to the relationship between the dental occlusion and the body balance. While most research focused on this relationship at static conditions, it is evident that the contribution of the sensory information for balance control is different depending on the environmental constraints.

Research question

The aim of the present paper was to elucidate whether the stomatognathic system (SS) contributes differently on body balance regulation according to the presence of external disturbances.

Methods

Literature regarding the different sources involved in the proprioceptive information to the SS was reviewed. The influence of dental occlusion on balance control at different external environments was then explored.

Results

The main findings are: (a) a plausible evidence between the masticatory and cervical muscles can be described; (b) a reciprocal connection between the trigeminal and vestibular nuclei supports the influence of the SS on body balance; (c) traditionally, research involving the relationship between the SS and balance control has focused on strictly controlled situations, thus, ignoring the sensory reweighting which occurs depending on the external disturbances; and (d) the afferences of dental occlusion for balance control seem strengthened when more difficult conditions are present.

Conclusion

Results of the present review suggest that afferent signals from dental occlusion effectively contribute to balance control when more external perturbations are present, that is unstable support surface, fatigue and tasks being performed. However, more studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms by which dental occlusion may influence balance control focusing on different external environments.
Is the use of Cannabis associated with periodontitis? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Chisini Luiz A. , Cademartori Mariana G. , Francia Alejandro , Mederos Matias , Grazioli Guillermo , Conde Marcus C. M. , Correa Marcos B.
Published: January 2019

Recent studies have shown that there is also biological plausibility for a possible relationship between periodontal disease and Cannabis use, thus the aim of this study was to investigate whether the use of Cannabis is associated with periodontitis. Electronic searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, ISI‐Web of Science, BVS‐Virtual health library and Scielo without restrictions. Search strategy was performed using relevant keywords considering the structure of each database. Longitudinal and cross‐sectional studies that investigated the association between the use of Cannabis and periodontal disease were included. Meta‐analyses and sensitivity analysis were conducted. A total of 143 records were found in the initial searches and five articles were included in the systematic review, being four studies included in the meta‐analysis. Overall, 13 491 individuals were included, of which 49.5% were males. Three of included studies investigated the relationship between cannabis and periodontal disease in adults and the other two studies were performed in adolescents. A positive association was observed between the use of cannabis and periodontitis (PR 1.12 CI 95% [1.06‐1.19]) with 19.0% of heterogeneity. The analysis of sensibility showed that none study influenced the results enough to change the pooled estimate. Regarding to the quality assessment, all studies presented high quality. The results of systematic review and meta‐analyses demonstrate that the use of Cannabis is associated with a higher prevalence of periodontitis.
Serum levetiracetam concentrations after transdermal levetiracetam administration, 3 times daily, to healthy cats
Authors: Smith Casey , Barnes Heller Heidi L. , Reif Nicole , Van Hesteren Matthew , Reinhart Jennifer M.
Published: January 2019

Background

Repeated oral administration of antiepileptic drugs can be challenging for cat owners, resulting in reduced compliance, poor seizure control, and reduced quality of life for cats. Levetiracetam (LEV) has several properties that make it an appealing drug for transdermal application.

Objectives

The aims were to (1) determine if transdermal LEV, in a lipophilic, liposomic cream vehicle, resulted in serum concentrations above 5 μg/mL; (2) identify clinical adverse effects; and (3) evaluate the concentration of LEV in a lipophilic liposomic cream at set intervals.

Animals

Six healthy, client‐owned cats weighing ≤5 kg.

Methods

Prospective clinical trial. Transdermal LEV was applied to the inner pinna at a dosage of 60 mg/kg (400 mg/mL concentration) at home for 6 days. Day 7, cats were hospitalized for blood sample collection for LEV concentration at times 0 (before dose administration), 0.5, 1, 2, 3, and 4 hours after administration.

Results

Median (range) timed serum concentrations were 16.6 (8.6‐39.6) μg/mL, 16.1 (6.8‐34.4) μg/mL, 15.4 (10.1‐36.7) μg/mL, 17.4 (9.2‐32.7) μg/mL, 15.1 (8.3‐25.9) μg/mL, and 14.8 (11.9‐28.4) μg/mL, respectively. Adverse events were limited to sedation (1/6 cats) and pinna crusting (1/6 cats). The LEV, in the proposed vehicle, retained concentration above 95% at 400 mg/mL up to 5 weeks.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Thrice daily transdermal LEV resulted in median serum concentrations ≥5 μg/mL throughout the sampling period and clinical adverse events were minimal. Transdermal LEV can provide an alternative for cats resistant to administration of other forms of anticonvulsant medication.
Quantifying plant interactions: Independent reference is critical for standardising the importance indices
Authors: Kikvidze Zaal , Brooker Rob W.
Published: January 2019

Mathematical tools for quantifying plant–plant interactions are continuously improving, for example by attaining desirable statistical properties such as symmetry around zero (positive and negative effects have the same distribution). Standardisation is another such important property, making indices comparable between independent experiments, and can be achieved by standardisation for size. Using simulated data, here we show that an approach to standardisation by size that works well for indices of intensity is not appropriate for those of importance (intensity indices measure the absolute size of interaction effect, whilst importance indices quantify this effect as a proportion of the impact of the environment overall); our analyses also show that importance values can be overestimated in unproductive environments. These issues arise because importance indices use a reference value that is the “maximum growth on the gradient”. This causes problems when comparing the results from studies that examine different sections of an environmental gradient: the maximum growth of plants within these sections is different and so the indices are not easy to compare between different sections of a gradient. Although this may sound like an obvious point, such issues can often be overlooked and a general solution adopted. One such solution is to report raw data from separate studies so that values can be recomputed for combined datasets and thus standardised comparisons. Another solution is to use an off‐gradient reference that is the maximum growth measured under optimal conditions for a model target species (phytometer).
When Do We Eat? The Clock is Ticking
Authors: Gibbs Allen G.
Published: January 2019

Ticks are simultaneously fascinating and disgusting. Anyone who has removed a bloated blood‐filled tick from themselves or a pet understands the “yuck“ factor they arouse. But ticks are also fascinating from a physiological perspective. Ticks are the ultimate sit‐and‐wait predators. Female ixodid ticks (hard ticks) consume a single meal during each life stage (larva, nymph and adult), which means only three lifetime meals over a 1‐ to 3‐year lifespan. Most males do not feed as adults, so they only feed twice. Thus, prolonged starvation is a quintessential aspect of tick life history. Although ticks have been widely studied for their importance as disease vectors, the vast majority of research has focused on tick–host interactions. Ixodid ticks spend the overwhelming majority of their lives off their hosts, but little is known about these periods. A new study begins to fill in some of these knowledge gaps. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Rosendale, Dunlevy, Marshall, and Benoit examine physiological, behavioural and transcriptomic changes occurring during long‐term starvation of the American dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis. Their work provides insights into how ticks are able to go so long between meals and how they prepare for their next meal.
Prevalence of chronic kidney disease in the elderly using the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly study cohort
Authors: Polkinghorne Kevan R , Wolfe Rory , Jachno Kim M , Wetmore James B , Woods Robyn L , McNeil John J , Nelson Mark R , Reid Christopher M , Murray Anne M ,   on behalf of the ASPREE Investigator Group
Published: January 2019

Aim

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the elderly is controversial because age‐related decline in kidney function may not truly reflect underlying kidney disease. We estimate the baseline prevalence and predictors of CKD using the CKD Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD‐EPIeGFR) and Berlin Initiative Study 1 (BIS1eGFR) eGFR equations in the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) trial cohort of healthy older participants.

Methods

GFR was estimated using CKD‐EPI and BIS1 equations. CKD was defined as eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 with urine albumin creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥ 3 mg/mmol. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of CKD prevalence defined by each eGFR equation.

Results

Data for analysis were complete for 17,762 participants. Mean age was 75.1 years (SD 5); 56.4% were female, 76.4% had hypertension, 9% had diabetes mellitus. Mean CKD‐EPIeGFR was 73.0 (SD 14.2), compared with mean BIS1eGFR of 62.7 (11.4). Median UACR was 0.8 (IQR 0.5, 1.5) mg/mmol. Prevalence of CKD by CKD‐EPIeGFR was 27% (predominantly due to normoalbuminuric stage 3a CKD), substantially lower than 47.1% by BIS1eGFR; the difference was predominantly driven by reclassification of individuals from G1 and G2 CKD to stage G3a without albuminuria. Increased prevalence of CKD by either equation was related to older age, hypertension, diabetes, or higher body mass index.

Conclusions

Prevalence of CKD with CKD‐EPIeGFR was 27%, and doubled using the elderly specific BIS1eGFR, with most participants reclassified from stage 2 to stage 3a. Increased prevalence of CKD was related older age, hypertension, diabetes, or increased body mass index.
Anisohydric behavior linked to persistent hydraulic damage and delayed drought recovery across seven North American tree species
Authors: Kannenberg Steven A. , Novick Kimberly A. , Phillips Richard P.
Published: January 2019

The isohydry‐anisohydry spectrum has become a popular way to characterize plant drought responses and recovery processes. Despite the proven utility of this framework for understanding the interconnected physiological changes plants undergo in response to water stress, new challenges have arisen pertaining to the traits and tradeoffs that underlie this concept.

To test the utility of this framework for understanding hydraulic traits, drought physiology and recovery, we applied a 6 wk experimental soil moisture reduction to seven tree species followed by a 6 wk recovery period. Throughout, we measured hydraulic traits and monitored changes in gas exchange, leaf water potential, and hydraulic conductivity.

Species’ hydraulic traits were not coordinated, as some anisohydric species had surprisingly low resistance to embolism (P50) and negative safety margins. In addition to widespread hydraulic damage, these species also experienced reductions in photosynthesis and stem water potential during water stress, and delayed recovery time.

Given that we observed no benefit of being anisohydric either during or after drought, our results indicate the need to reconsider the traits and tradeoffs that underlie anisohydric behavior, and to consider the environmental, biological and edaphic processes that could allow this strategy to flourish in forests.
Interaction between Brassica yellows virus silencing suppressor P0 and plant SKP1 facilitates stability of P0 in vivo against degradation by proteasome and autophagy pathways
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Sun Qian , Zhao Tianyu , Xiang Haiying , Zhang Xiaoyan , Wu Zhanyu , Zhou Cuiji , Zhang Xin , Wang Ying , Zhang Yongliang , Wang Xianbing , Li Dawei , Yu Jialin , Dinesh‐Kumar Savithramma P. , Han Chenggui
Published: January 2019

P0 protein of some polerovirus members can target ARGONAUTE1 (AGO1) to suppress RNA silencing. Although P0 harbors an F‐box‐like motif reported to be essential for interaction with S phase kinase‐associated protein 1 (SKP1) and RNA silencing suppression, it is the autophagy pathway that was shown to contribute to AGO1 degradation. Therefore, the role of P0–SKP1 interaction in silencing suppression remains unclear.

We conducted global mutagenesis and comparative functional analysis of P0 encoded by Brassica yellows virus (BrYV) (P0Br).

We found that several residues within P0Br are required for local and systemic silencing suppression activities. Remarkably, the F‐box‐like motif mutant of P0Br, which failed to interact with SKP1, is destabilized in vivo. Both the 26S proteasome system and autophagy pathway play a role in destabilization of the mutant protein. Furthermore, silencing of a Nicotiana benthamiana SKP1 ortholog leads to the destabilization of P0Br. Genetic analyses indicated that the P0Br–SKP1 interaction is not directly required for silencing suppression activity of P0Br, but it facilitates stability of P0Br to ensure efficient RNA silencing suppression. Consistent with these findings, efficient systemic infection of BrYV requires P0Br.

Our results reveal a novel strategy used by BrYV for facilitating viral suppressors of RNA silencing stability against degradation by plant cells.
Unfair trade underground revealed by integrating data with Nash bargaining models
Authors: Clark Teresa J. , Friel Colleen A. , Grman Emily , Friesen Maren L. , Shachar‐Hill Yair
Published: January 2019

Mutually beneficial resource exchange is fundamental to global biogeochemical cycles and plant and animal nutrition. However, there is inherent potential conflict in mutualisms, as each organism benefits more when the exchange ratio (‘price’) minimizes its own costs and maximizes its benefits. Understanding the bargaining power that each partner has in these interactions is key to our ability to predict the exchange ratio and therefore the functionality of the cell, organism, community and ecosystem.

We tested whether partners have symmetrical (‘fair’) or asymmetrical (‘unfair’) bargaining power in a legume–rhizobia nitrogen‐fixing symbiosis using measurements of carbon and nitrogen dynamics in a mathematical modeling framework derived from economic theory.

A model of symmetric bargaining power was not consistent with our data. Instead, our data indicate that the growth benefit to the plant (Medicago truncatula) has greater weight in determining trade dynamics than the benefit to the bacteria. Quantitative estimates of the relative power of the plant revealed that the plant's influence rises as soil nitrogen availability decreases and trade benefits to both partners increase.

Our finding that M. truncatula legumes have more bargaining power than their rhizobial partner at lower nitrogen availabilities highlights the importance of context‐dependence for the evolution of mutualism with increasing nutrient deposition.
Analytical expressions for the eigenvalues, demographic quantities, and extinction criteria arising from a three‐stage wildlife population matrix
Authors: Hanley Brenda , Dennis Brian
Published: January 2019

We used the symbolic solution for the roots of a cubic polynomial to derive expressions for the eigenvalues of a three‐stage population projection matrix. As well, we obtained expressions for eigenvectors, moduli, damping ratios, sensitivities, and elasticities. The equations reveal the existence of “superparameters;” natural groupings of vital rates that drive population dynamics. We show that growth rates can be calculated using (at most) three superparameters in place of as many as nine original vital rates, potentially simplifying data collection. Necessary and sufficient conditions for extinction can be summarized equivalently by three superparameter inequalities. For a common life history (Noon & Biles, 1990, J Wildl Manag, 54, 18–27) four vital rate parameters are reduced to two superparameters. The results are applicable to population viability and recovery analysis and harvest planning.

Two recommendations for resource managers

Superparameters can be estimated to determine population growth rates.

Superparameters can be used to conduct rapid assessments of extinction risk.
Statistical Analysis Plan for “An international multicenter study of isoelectric electroencephalography events in infants and young children during anesthesia for surgery”
Authors: Yuan Ian , Olbrecht Vanessa A. , Mensinger Janell L. , Zhang Bingqing , Davidson Andrew J. , von Ungern‐Sternberg Britta S. , Skowno Justin , Lian QingQuan , Song XingRong , Zhao Pin , Zhang JianMin , Zhang MaZhong , Zuo YunXia , de Graaff Jurgen C. , Vutskits Laszlo , Szmuk Peter , Kurth Charles D.
Published: January 2019

This Statistical Analysis Plan details the statistical procedures to be applied for the analysis of data for the multicenter electroencephalography study. It consists of a basic description of the study in broad terms and separate sections that detail the methods of different aspects of the statistical analysis, summarized under the following headings (a) Background; (b) Definitions of protocol violations; (c) Definitions of objectives and other terms; (d) Variables for analyses; (e) Handling of missing data and study bias; (f) Statistical analysis of the primary and secondary study outcomes; (g) Reporting of study results; and (h) References. It serves as a template for researchers interested in writing a Statistical Analysis Plan.
Hume's Dual Criteria for Memory
Authors: Cruz Maité
Published: January 2019

In his brief treatment of memory, Hume characterizes memory using two kinds of criteria: ideas' phenomenal character and their correspondence to the past experiences from which they derived. These criteria have seemed so perplexing to interpreters, both individually and jointly, that Hume's account of memory is commonly considered one of the weakest parts of his philosophical system. This paper defends Hume's criteria by showing that they achieve two theoretical aims: a scientific classification of ideas and a definition of ‘memory.’ In particular, I argue that Hume's definition of ‘memory’ is cogent in light of Putnamian considerations about definitions.
Center variation in screening for and management of metabolic syndrome in pediatric liver transplant recipients: A survey of SPLIT centers
Authors: Hilk Kelly , Zerofsky Melissa , Rhee Sue , Rosenthal Philip , Perito Emily R.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

PTMS—a clustering of hypertension, dyslipidemia, glucose intolerance/diabetes, and obesity—is increasingly recognized as a contributor to long‐term morbidity after transplant. We sought to describe pediatric liver transplant center protocols and provider practices in screening for and managing these conditions.

Methods

Cross‐sectional survey of pediatric liver transplant providers from centers that participate in Studies of Liver Transplantation (SPLIT).

Results

Of 49 survey respondents from 39 centers, 64% were hepatologists or surgeons, 18% nurses/NPs/PAs, 12% coordinators, and 4% other. All providers felt that pediatric liver transplant recipients should be routinely screened for PTMS components. For each condition, at least 70% felt that the liver transplant team should be primarily responsible for routine screening. For each condition, at least 30% of providers reported that their center had no standardized protocol for screening. For diagnostic evaluation and initial management, >60% of providers reported that their center had no standardized protocol for glucose intolerance/diabetes, dyslipidemia, or obesity. Almost 40% had no standardized workup or initial management protocol for hypertension or chronic kidney disease. Of centers that did have screening or workup protocols, most were based on existing center practice, provider consensus, or informal review of published evidence. Screening tools, treatment steps, and thresholds for referral to another specialist varied widely.

Conclusions

Transplant providers intend to screen for and initiate management of PTMS components in these children, but protocols and practices vary substantially. This highlights opportunities for multi‐center collaboration on protocols or interventions to improve screening and management.
Combined hepatocellular‐cholangiocarcinoma with angiosarcomatoid change: A case report with immunohistochemical study
Authors: Hakozaki Mayu , Ito Shinji , Fujii Takeshi , Kiya Yoshitaka , Udagawa Harushi , Fukayama Masashi , Fukusato Toshio
Published: January 2019

Sarcomatoid combined hepatocellular‐cholangiocarcinoma (cHCC‐CCA) is a rare condition, with only 16 cases reported to date; however, there have been no reports of hepatic sarcomatoid carcinoma with angiosarcomatous features. Here, we report a rare case of cHCC‐CCA with angiosarcomatoid changes in a 77‐year‐old man. The tumor was biphasic with malignant epithelial and mesenchymal components. Histologically, the epithelial component was concordant with classical type cHCC‐CCA. The mesenchymal component included angiosarcomatoid cells growing in a vasoformative structure and undifferentiated spindle cells. Immunohistochemical analyses showed that angiosarcomatoid cells were positive for CD31, factor VIII‐related antigen, and other angiosarcoma markers. Characteristically diffuse and strong expression of p53 protein was observed in the nuclei of angiosarcomatoid cells but not in carcinoma cells, suggesting that TP53 gene mutations commonly occur in these cells. Transitional zones were observed between HCC and spindle cells and between HCC and angiosarcomatoid cells. A small portion of undifferentiated spindle cells expressed pan‐cytokeratin. These findings suggested that this extremely rare tumor developed from dedifferentiation or metaplastic changes of cHCC‐CCA.
Effect of exogenous ammonium gluconate on growth, ion flux and antioxidant enzymes of maize (Zea Mays L.) seedlings under NaCl stress
Authors: Ding F. , Wang R. , Chen B.
Published: January 2019

Ammonium gluconate (AG) provides both an organic carbon source and a nitrogen source, which can positively improve soil fertility and delay soil degradation.

We investigated the underlying mechanisms of both NH4+‐ and C6H11O7−‐mediated resistance to high salt concentrations in maize (Zea mays L.), and how they relate to antioxidant cellular machinery, root system architecture, root activity and lignin content in roots.

Seedlings treated with AG maintained lower Na+ content, higher chlorophyll content, higher CAT and POD activity, compared with those without AG and ammonium carbonate (AC). The total size of the root system, primary root length and number of lateral roots detected on the primary root treated with AG decreased compared with those not treated with AG at the same NaCl concentration. However, average root diameter and root activity when treated with AG were significantly higher than roots without AG at the same NaCl concentration. Furthermore, total size of the root system, primary root length and number of lateral roots detected on primary rootsof seedlings treated with AG were higher than those treated with AC at the same NaCl concentration.

These results suggested that AG may be a good organic fertiliser under salt stress by decreasing Na+ content and increasing chlorophyll content, activity of antioxidant enzymes, root diameter and root activity in maize seedlings.
8200‐year growth history of a Lahontan‐age lacustrine tufa deposit
Authors: Demott Laura M. , Scholz Christopher A. , Junium Christopher K.
Published: January 2019

Tufa domes and towers are common around the margins of Winnemucca Dry Lake, Nevada, USA, a desiccated sub‐basin of pluvial Lake Lahontan. A 2·5 m diameter concentrically‐layered tufa mound from the southern end of the playa was sampled along its growth axis to determine timing, rate and geochemical conditions of tufa growth. A radiocarbon‐based age model indicates an 8200‐year tufa depositional record that begins near the end of the Last Glacial Maximum (ca 23 400 cal yr bp) and concludes at the end of the most recent Lahontan highstand (ca 15 200 cal yr bp). Petrography, stable isotopes and major and minor elemental compositions are used to evaluate the rate and timing of tufa growth in the context of the depositional environment. The deposit built radially outward from a central nucleation point, with six decimetre‐scale layers defined by variations in texture. Two distinct tufa types are observed: the inner section is composed of two layers of thinolite pseudomorphs after ikaite, with the innermost layer comprised of very small pseudomorphs (<0·25 cm) and an outer layer composed of larger, ca 3 cm long pseudomorphs, followed by a transitional layer where thinolite pseudomorphs grade into calcite fans. The outer section consists of three distinct layers of thrombolitic micrite with a branching mesofabric. The textural change occurred as lake levels began to rise towards the most recent Lahontan highstand interval and probably was prompted by warming of lake waters caused by increased groundwater flux during highstand lake levels. The Mg/Ca and Sr/Ca variations suggest a warming trend in the tufa growth environment and may also reflect increasing growth rates of tufa associated with increased fluxes of groundwater. This systematic study of tufa deposition indicates the importance of the hydrology of the lacustrine tufa system for reconstructing palaeoenvironmental records, and particularly the interaction of ground and surface waters.
Human gingiva‐derived mesenchymal stem cells alleviate inflammatory bowel disease via IL‐10 signalling‐dependent modulation of immune cells
Authors: Lu Yousheng , Xu Yueran , Zhang Shaopeng , Gao Ji , Gan Xiaojie , Zheng Ju , Lu Ling , Zeng Wenquan , Gu Jian
Published: January 2019

Current evidence indicates that inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is caused primarily by impaired mucosal immunity, resulting in an imbalance between epithelial barrier function and tissue inflammation. Human gingiva‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (GMSCs) exhibit immunomodulatory and anti‐inflammatory effects in a variety of immunity‐ and inflammation‐associated diseases. However, the role of GMSCs in treating IBD has not been elucidated. Our study, therefore, examined the therapeutic effect and mechanism of GMSCs in a murine colitis model of IBD. Our results indicate that the infusion of GMSCs significantly prolonged survival and relieved symptoms. Phenotype analyses showed that the frequencies of NK1.1+ and CD11b+ cells, as well as CD4 T cells in the spleen, were suppressed in GMSC‐treated mice compared with the PBS‐ or fibroblast‐treated control groups. Additionally, GMSC treatment markedly increased the numbers of interleukin (IL)‐10+ regulatory T cells, reduced the secretion of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, and increased production of anti‐inflammatory cytokines. A mechanistic study revealed that anti‐IL‐10R antibody abolished the protective effect of GMSCs compared with mice treated with anti‐IgG antibody. Thus, our results indicate that GMSCs play a critical role in alleviating colitis by modulating inflammatory immune cells via IL‐10 signalling.
Damage and the repeated bout effect of arm, leg, and trunk muscles induced by eccentric resistance exercises
Authors: Chen Trevor C. , Yang Tsung‐Jen , Huang Min‐Jyue , Wang Ho‐Seng , Tseng Kuo‐Wei , Chen Hsin‐Lian , Nosaka Kazunori
Published: January 2019

This study compared nine resistance eccentric exercises targeting arm, leg, and trunk muscles in one session for changes in maximal voluntary isometric contraction strength (MVC), delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), plasma creatine kinase (CK) activity, and myoglobin (Mb) concentration after the first and second bouts. Fifteen sedentary men (20‐25 years) performed 5 sets of 10 eccentric contractions with 80% of MVC load for the elbow flexors (EF), elbow extensors (EE), pectoralis, knee extensors (KE), knee flexors (KF), plantar flexors (PF), latissimus, abdominis, and erector spinae (ES) in a randomized order and repeated the same exercises 2 weeks later. MVC decreased at 1 (16%‐57%) to 4 (13%‐49%) days, DOMS developed (peak: 43‐70 mm), and CK activity (peak: 23 238‐207 304 IU/L) and Mb concentration showed large increases after the first bout. The magnitude of decrease in MVC was greater (P < 0.05) for EF, EE, and PEC than others and for KF than KE, PF, and ES. DOMS was greater (P < 0.05) for EF, EE, and ES than others. Changes in all measures were smaller (P < 0.05) after the second than the first bout, and the magnitude of the repeated bout effect was similar among the muscles. Plasma CK activity and Mb concentration did not increase significantly after the second exercise bout. It was concluded that muscle damage was greater for arm than leg muscles, and muscle proteins in the blood increased to a critical level after unaccustomed whole‐body resistance exercises, but the magnitude of damage was largely attenuated for all muscles similarly after the second bout.
Is ski boot sole abrasion a potential ACL injury risk factor for male and female recreational skiers?
Authors: Posch Markus , Ruedl Gerhard , Schranz Alois , Tecklenburg Katja , Burtscher Martin
Published: January 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the potential impact of ski boot sole abrasion on the ACL injury risk of recreational skiers.

Methods

During the past two winter seasons 2016/17 and 2017/18, this retrospective case‐control study was conducted in one Austrian ski area. Among a cohort of 148 ACL‐injured (51.4% females) and 455 uninjured recreational skiers (43.3% females), age, sex, height, weight, and self‐reported skill level were collected by questionnaire, ski length and sidecut radius were notated and sole abrasion of the toe and heel piece of the ski boot was measured using a digital caliper.

Results

ACL‐injured skiers showed a higher proportion of female (51.4% vs 43.3%, P < 0.001) and less skilled skiers (48.6% vs 20.9%, P < 0.001), and ski length to height ratio was higher (94.7 ± 3.7 vs 93.8 ± 5.0%, P = 0.019) compared to uninjured skiers. ACL‐injured skiers used ski boots of greater abrasion at the toe (4.8 ± 1.8 vs 2.4 ± 2.5 mm, P < 0.001) and heel piece (5.4 ± 1.8 vs 3.3 ± 2.3 mm, P < 0.001) compared to controls. Multivariate regression analysis revealed, beside female sex (OR 6.0, 95% CI, 3.1‐11.5, P < 0.001), lower skill level (OR 3.2, 95% CI, 1.9‐5.4, P < 0.001) and ski length to height ratio (OR 1.1, 95% CI, 1.0‐1.2, P < 0.001), sole abrasion at the toe (OR 1.8, 95% CI, 1.5‐2.1, P < 0.001) and heel piece (OR 1.4, 95% CI, 1.2‐1.6, P < 0.001) to be independently associated with an ACL injury among recreational alpine skiers.

Conclusions

Based on the underlying findings, ski boot sole abrasion was found to be an independent risk factor and may contribute to an increased ACL injury risk.
Virtual image correlation of magnetic resonance images for 3D geometric modelling of pelvic organs
Authors: Jiang Zhifan , Mayeur Olivier , Witz Jean‐François , Lecomte‐Grosbras Pauline , Dequidt Jeremie , Cosson Michel , Duriez Christian , Brieu Mathias
Published: January 2019

Numerical simulation of pelvic system could lead to a better understanding of common pathology through objective and reliable analyses of pelvic mobility according to mechanical principles. In clinical context, patient‐specific simulation has the potential for a proper patient‐personalised cure. For this purpose, a simulable 3D geometrical model, well suited to patient anatomy, is required. However, the geometric modelling of pelvic system from medical images (MRI) is a complex operator‐dependent and time‐consuming process, not adapted to patient‐specific applications. This paper is addressing this challenging computational problem. The objective is to develop a technique, providing a smooth, consistent, and readily usable 3D geometrical model, seamlessly from image to simulation. In this paper, we use a generic topologically‐simplified B‐Spline model to represent pelvic organs. The presented paper develops a Virtual Image Correlation method to find the best correlation between the geometry and the image. The final reconstructed geometrical model is to be compatible with meshing and finite element simulation. Then, a variety of tests are performed to prove the concept, through both prototypical and pelvic models. Finally, since the pelvic system is complex, including structures hardly identifiable in MRI, some feasible solutions to introduce more complex pelvic models are also discussed.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐B*46:01:23 allele in a Chinese bone marrow donor
Authors: Wang Fang , Wang Wei , Zhang Wei , He Ji , Faming Zhu
Published: January 2019

HLA‐B*46:01:23 shows a substitution G to A at position 873 when compared to HLA‐B*46:01:01.
Cognitive Success: A Consequentialist Account of Rationality in Cognition
Authors: Schurz Gerhard , Hertwig Ralph
Published: January 2019

One of the most discussed issues in psychology—presently and in the past—is how to define and measure the extent to which human cognition is rational. The rationality of human cognition is often evaluated in terms of normative standards based on a priori intuitions. Yet this approach has been challenged by two recent developments in psychology that we review in this article: ecological rationality and descriptivism. Going beyond these contributions, we consider it a good moment for psychologists and philosophers to join forces and work toward a new foundation for the definition of rational cognition. We take a first step in this direction by proposing that the rationality of both cognitive and normative systems can be measured in terms of their cognitive success. Cognitive success can be defined and gauged in terms of two factors: ecological validity (the system's validity in conditions in which it is applicable) and the system's applicability (the scope of conditions under which it can be applied). As we show, prominent systems of reasoning—deductive reasoning, Bayesian reasoning, uncertain conditionals, and prediction and choice—perform rather differently on these two factors. Furthermore, we demonstrate that conceptualizing rationality according to its cognitive success offers a new perspective on the time‐honored relationship between the descriptive (“is”) and the normative (“ought”) in psychology and philosophy.
An Arabidopsis berberine bridge enzyme‐like protein specifically oxidizes cellulose oligomers and plays a role in immunity
Authors: Locci Federica , Benedetti Manuel , Pontiggia Daniela , Citterico Matteo , Caprari Claudio , Mattei Benedetta , Cervone Felice , De Lorenzo Giulia
Published: January 2019

The plant cell wall is the barrier that pathogens must overcome to cause a disease, and to this end they secrete enzymes that degrade the various cell wall components. Due to the complexity of these components, several types of oligosaccharide fragments may be released during pathogenesis and some of these can act as damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). Well‐knownDAMPs are the oligogalacturonides (OGs) released upon degradation of homogalacturonan and the products of cellulose breakdown, i.e. the cellodextrins (CDs). We have previously reported that four Arabidopsis berberine bridge enzyme‐like (BBE‐like) proteins (OGOX1–4) oxidizeOGs and impair their elicitor activity. We show here that another ArabidopsisBBE‐like protein, which is expressed coordinately withOGOX1 during immunity, specifically oxidizesCDs with a preference for cellotriose (CD3) and longer fragments (CD4–CD6). OxidizedCDs show a negligible elicitor activity and are less easily utilized as a carbon source by the fungusBotrytis cinerea. The enzyme, named CELLOX (cellodextrin oxidase), is encoded by the geneAt4 g20860. Plants overexpressingCELLOXdisplay an enhanced resistance toB. cinerea, probably because oxidizedCDs are a less valuable carbon source. Thus, the capacity to oxidize and impair the biological activity of cell wall‐derived oligosaccharides seems to be a general trait of the family ofBBE‐like proteins, which may serve to homeostatically control the level ofDAMPs to prevent their hyperaccumulation.
Effect of age, sex, and season on the variation in blood analytes of a clinically normal ex situ population of killer whales (Orcinus orca)
Authors: Nollens Hendrik H. , Robeck Todd R. , Schmitt Todd L. , Croft Lara L. , Osborn Steve , McBain James F.
Published: January 2019

Background

The effects of sex, age, and season on blood analyte concentrations have not been investigated for the killer whale (Orcinus orca). Defining these changes provides background data for improving the care of managed populations and defines normal changes that could occur in wild counterparts.

Objectives

We aimed to define hematologic and serum biochemical variation by age, sex, and season for an ex situ killer whale population.

Methods

Blood samples collected from killer whales during normal wellness exams were retrospectively identified. Killer whales were categorized by age; calf (0‐2.9 years), juvenile (3‐10.9 years), early adult (11‐20.9 years), adult (21‐30.9 years), and aged (>30.9 years); sex; and season. StandardCBCand biochemistry were collated, and only samples without evidence of disease were used. A mixed effects maximum likelihood regression with animal identification (ID) as the random effects variable was used to compare groups with a significance set atP ≤ 0.01.

Results

All analytes differed by age, while only four differed by sex. Red blood cell parameters and associated renal analytes increased with age, while liver‐associated analytes and glucose decreased. Season affected 59% of the blood analytes.

Conclusions

Aged killer whales showed strong evidence of altered physiology as compared with younger animals. Anemia did not develop with age as was observed in one bottlenose dolphin population. Observed decreases in renal function could be caused by chronic disease or dehydration. Decreases in immune function parameters suggest immune senescence. These results provide background data for evaluating the health of managed and free‐ranging killer whales.
In vitro antimicrobial activity of topical otological antimicrobials and Tris‐EDTA against resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates from dogs
Authors: Boyd Megan , Santoro Domenico , Gram Dunbar
Published: January 2019

Background

The value of susceptibility tests for the selection of topical otological antimicrobial agents is unclear. Laboratories test antibiotic concentrations substantially lower than concentrations supplied in topical formulations. Additionally, microbiological consensus statements are not available for topical antimicrobials.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The primary aim of this study was to measure the minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations of enrofloxacin, gentamicin, marbofloxacin, neomycin, orbifloxacin, polymyxin B and silver sulfadiazine from concentrations available in otological formulations (COF) to 1:59,000 dilution. The secondary aim was to evaluate the effect of Tris‐EDTA in conjunction with these antimicrobial agents.

Methods and materials

Twenty resistant clinical isolates [Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (n = 10) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n = 10)] were tested by broth microdilution using a concentrated inoculum (3.75 × 107 cfu/mL).

Results

Concentrations available in otological formulations were at least 26× greater than the MICs for S. pseudintermedius and P. aeruginosa. COFs of polymyxin B and SSD were 27× greater than the MBCs for P. aeruginosa, whereas all other antimicrobial COFs were equal to or less than the MBCs for both organisms. Tris‐EDTA significantly reduced the MICs of all antimicrobials, except with SSD for P. aeruginosa, and it significantly increased the MIC of SSD for S. pseudintermedius.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Further studies are warranted to validate the present results in vivo. COFs are inhibitory and less likely bactericidal, with few exceptions, against resistant strains of these organisms. Tris‐EDTA may be advantageous for P. aeruginosa whereas no additional benefit is afforded against S. pseudintermedius. Susceptibility tests may not be useful for the selection of topical otological antimicrobial agents.
Mary Edwards Walker (1832–1919): Approach to limb salvage therapy
Authors: Klifto Kevin M. , Quan Amy , Lee Dellon A.
Published: January 2019

Mary Edwards Walker (1832–1919) was the first female surgeon in the United States. Her upbringing and unique medical training led her to practice medicine in a way that was revolutionary for the time. During the Civil War, her approach to wound care rivaled the current standard of care. During an era that predated antiseptic surgical technique, she prioritized cleanliness and hygiene. She opposed amputation for its surgical risks and decreased postoperative quality of life. She believed that many wounds, when appropriately attended to, would heal without amputation. She advocated for patients who she believed did not require amputations and counseled them on their rights to refuse surgical care.