bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Force Signs: Ideologies of Corporal Discipline in Academia and the Marshall Islands
Authors: Berman Elise
Published: April 2018

Corporal discipline is often called the most frequent form of violence against children. This conclusion comes from an extensive body of research that supposedly shows that corporal discipline is both harmful and pervasive. But this research is biased by three ideologies of language and signs—or semiotic ideologies—that distort the collection and interpretation of data: assumptions that speech functions mainly to refer; views of signs and the physical world as distinct; and interpretations of force signs as indices of deviant relationships. In contrast, in a village in the Marshall Islands reported force has multiple functions, people combine multiple different types of signs in disciplinary interactions, and force signs often index not deviance but healthy relationships. The harms to children and families created by these misinterpretations of signs go far beyond producing incorrect estimates of the frequency of corporal discipline. On the one hand, these ideologies pathologize people who frequently produce force signs as well as the kinship systems associated with them; on the other hand, misunderstood communicative patterns may lead researchers to miss harms that people do experience. Researching corporal discipline requires an analysis of force signs in context—an ethnography of communication of force.
A novel receptor‐like kinase involved in fungal pathogen defence in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Ray Justin , Yang Xin , Kong Feng , Guo Tingwei , Deng Fengyan , Clough Steven , Ramonell Katrina
Published: April 2018

Plants are under constant attack from a variety of disease‐causing organisms. Lacking an adaptive immune system, plants repel pathogen attack via an array of pathogen recognition machinery. Receptor‐like kinases (RLKs) are involved in the recognition of pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and activate resistance pathways against broad classes of pathogens. We have identified powdery mildew‐resistant kinase 1, an Arabidopsis gene encoding an RLK that is highly induced by chitin at early time points and localizes to the plasma membrane. Knockout mutants in pmrk1 are more susceptible to both Golovinomyces cichoracearum and Plectosphaerella cucumerina. Our data show that PMRK1 is essential in early stages of defence against fungi and provide evidence that PMRK1 may be unique to chitin‐induced signalling pathways. The results of this study indicate that PMRK1 is a critical component of plant innate immunity against fungal pathogens.
Comparative genomics of figworts (Scrophularia, Scrophulariaceae), with implications for the evolution of Scrophularia and Lamiales
Authors: Xu Wu‐Qin , Losh Jocelyn , Chen Chuan , Li Pan , Wang Rui‐Hong , Zhao Yun‐Peng , Qiu Ying‐Xiong , Fu Cheng‐Xin
Published: April 2018

The figwort genus Scrophularia L. (Scrophulariaceae) comprises 200–300 species and is widespread throughout the temperate Northern Hemisphere. Due to reticulate evolution resulting from hybridization and polyploidization, the taxonomy and phylogeny of Scrophularia is notoriously challenging. Here we report the complete chloroplast (cp) genome sequences of S. henryi Hemsl. and S. dentata Royle ex Benth. and compare them with those of S. takesimensis Nakai and S. buergeriana Miq. The Scrophularia cp genomes ranged from 152 425 to 153 631 bp in length. Each cp genome contained 113 unigenes, consisting of 78 protein‐coding genes, 31 transfer RNA genes, and 4 ribosomal RNA genes. Gene order, gene content, AT content and IR/SC boundary structure were nearly identical among them. Nine cpDNA markers (trnH‐psbA, rps15, rps18‐rpl20, rpl32‐trnL, trnS‐trnG, ycf15‐trnL, rps4‐trnT, ndhF‐rpl32, and rps16‐trnQ) with more than 2% variable sites were identified. Our phylogenetic analyses including 55 genera from Lamiales strongly supported a sister relationship between ((Bignoniaceae + Verbenaceae) + Pedaliaceae) and (Acanthaceae + Lentibulariaceae). Within Scrophulariaceae, a topology of (S. dentata + (S. takesimensis + (S. buergeriana + S. henryi))) was strongly supported. The crown age of Lamiales was estimated to be 85.1 Ma (95% highest posterior density, 70.6–99.8 Ma). The higher core Lamiales originated at 65.6 Ma (95% highest posterior density, 51.4–79.4 Ma), with a subsequent radiation that occurred in the Paleocene (between 55.4 and 62.3 Ma) and gave birth to the diversified families. Our study provides a robust phylogeny and a temporal framework for further investigation of the evolution of Lamiales.
Pathological classification of equine recurrent laryngeal neuropathy
Authors: Draper Alexandra C. E. , Piercy Richard J.
Published: April 2018

Recurrent Laryngeal Neuropathy (RLN) is a highly prevalent and predominantly left‐sided, degenerative disorder of the recurrent laryngeal nerves (RLn) of tall horses, that causes inspiratory stridor at exercise because of intrinsic laryngeal muscle paresis. The associated laryngeal dysfunction and exercise intolerance in athletic horses commonly leads to surgical intervention, retirement or euthanasia with associated financial and welfare implications. Despite speculation, there is a lack of consensus and conflicting evidence supporting the primary classification of RLN, as either a distal (“dying back”) axonopathy or as a primary myelinopathy and as either a (bilateral) mononeuropathy or a polyneuropathy; this uncertainty hinders etiological and pathophysiological research. In this review, we discuss the neuropathological changes and electrophysiological deficits reported in the RLn of affected horses, and the evidence for correct classification of the disorder. In so doing, we summarize and reveal the limitations of much historical research on RLN and propose future directions that might best help identify the etiology and pathophysiology of this enigmatic disorder.
A study of the pharmacokinetics and thromboxane inhibitory activity of a single intramuscular dose of carprofen as a means to establish its potential use as an analgesic drug in white rhinoceros
Authors: Leiberich M. , Krebber R. , Hewetson M. , Marais J. , Naidoo V.
Published: April 2018

The alleviation of pain and prevention of suffering are key aspects of animal welfare. Unfortunately, analgesic drugs are not available for all species. White rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum), representing one of such species, which survive poaching attempts inflicted with severe facial injuries and gunshot wounds, nonetheless require analgesic support. To improve treatment conditions, this study explored the use of carprofen for the treatment of pain and inflammation in white rhinoceros. The pharmacokinetics of 1 mg/kg intramuscular carprofen was evaluated in six healthy white rhinoceros. The half‐life of λzand mean residence time was 105.71 ± 15.67 and 155.01 ± 22.46 hr, respectively. The area under the curve and the maximum carprofen concentration were 904.61 ± 110.78 μg ml−1 hr−1and 5.77 ± 0.63 μg/ml, respectively. PlasmaTXB2inhibition demonstrated anti‐inflammatory properties and indicated that carprofen may be effective for a minimum of 48 hr in most animals. With its long half‐life further indicating that a single dose could be effective for several days, we suggest that carprofen may be a useful drug for the treatment of white rhinoceros.
How do mycorrhizal suppression and plant functional group loss affect plant communities in Inner Mongolia Steppe?
Authors: Yang Xin , Shen Yue , Chen Jishan , Guo Yanping , Zhang Yingjun
Published: April 2018

Aims

Although many studies have investigated how biodiversity loss impacts ecosystem functioning, we still have little understanding of how it interacts with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) to affect plant communities in natural grasslands. Here, we conducted a removal experiment to examine how AMF suppression and plant functional group (PFG) removal affect above‐ground productivity and community composition in a grassland, and to determine whether AMF alter the compensation ability of the remaining plants.

Location

Inner Mongolian grassland, China.

Methods

We suppressed AMF activities by applying Topsin®‐M as a soil drench and selectively removed PFGs to give three treatments (no removal, removal of C3 grasses and removal of both C4 grasses and forbs). We then measured various plant, soil and AMF parameters for each treatment combination.

Results

The addition of Topsin‐M effectively reduced mycorrhizal root colonization across all of the PFG removal treatments. Furthermore, above‐ground productivity was significantly impacted by both the presence of AMF and the removal of PFGs. When C3 grasses were removed, neither C4 grasses nor forbs compensated for the biomass decline, and the presence of AMF did not affect their compensation ability. Conversely, C3 grasses could completely compensate for the removal of both C4 grasses and forbs, but the presence of AMF reduced their compensation ability. The removal of both C4 grasses and forbs dramatically increased the shoot P content of C3 grasses but AMF slightly decreased this. In contrast, AMF significantly increased the plant P content of C4 grasses and forbs across all three PFG removal treatments.

Conclusion

Our results highlight the importance of AMF in structuring natural above‐ground productivity under various biodiversity loss scenarios, and indicate that AMF will be able to modify vegetation dynamics in response to the future loss of plant diversity.
Contributions of nonmaternal caregivers to infant feeding in a low‐income African‐American sample
Authors: Barrett Katherine J. , Wasser Heather M. , Thompson Amanda L. , Bentley Margaret E.
Published: April 2018

Infant feeding is a well‐established topic of interest in obesity research, yet few studies have focused on contributions of nonmaternal caregivers (NMCs)—such as fathers, grandparents, and daycare providers—to infant feeding. Data from the Infant Care, Feeding and Risk of Obesity Project in North Carolina were used to investigate (a) which factors were associated with NMC feeding styles and (b) how NMCs' and mothers' feeding styles compared. Multivariate regression models utilizing random effects were used to analyse data from 108 NMCs who were identified by mothers as being heavily involved in infant feeding. Feeding styles were measured using the Infant Feeding Style Questionnaire. Several individual characteristics were important. Higher laissez faire‐attention scores were reported by men and NMCs who lived in the same household as infant. Men reported higher indulgent‐coax and indulgent‐pamper scores. Perceptions of fussier infants, older infant age, and higher infant weight‐for‐length z‐scores were also important. Mothers' and NMCs' feeding styles differed. Compared with mothers, grandparents reported lower laissez faire and indulgent‐permissive scores. Fathers reported higher pressure‐soothe and indulgent scores. Daycare providers reported higher restriction‐diet quality and responsive satiety. Feeding styles were also predicted to change over time for all caregiver types. These findings highlight the importance of helping all caregivers develop skills that will promote optimal infant feeding outcomes. Given the paucity of research in this area, it is important to improve our understanding of what influences caregivers' feeding styles, especially among diverse populations, and how exposure to different feeding styles may shape children's obesity risk.
Adaptive population divergence and directional gene flow across steep elevational gradients in a climate‐sensitive mammal
Authors: Waterhouse Matthew D. , Erb Liesl P. , Beever Erik A. , Russello Michael A.
Published: April 2018

The ecological effects of climate change have been shown in most major taxonomic groups; however, the evolutionary consequences are less well‐documented. Adaptation to new climatic conditions offers a potential long‐term mechanism for species to maintain viability in rapidly changing environments, but mammalian examples remain scarce. The American pika (Ochotona princeps) has been impacted by recent climate‐associated extirpations and range‐wide reductions in population sizes, establishing it as a sentinel mammalian species for climate change. To investigate evidence for local adaptation and reconstruct patterns of genomic diversity and gene flow across rapidly changing environments, we used a space‐for‐time design and restriction site‐associated DNA sequencing to genotype American pikas along two steep elevational gradients at 30,966 SNPs and employed independent outlier detection methods that scanned for genotype‐environment associations. We identified 338 outlier SNPs detected by two separate analyses and/or replicated in both transects, several of which were annotated to genes involved in metabolic function and oxygen transport. Additionally, we found evidence of directional gene flow primarily downslope from high‐elevation populations, along with reduced gene flow at outlier loci. If this trend continues, elevational range contractions in American pikas will likely be from local extirpation rather than upward movement of low‐elevation individuals; this, in turn, could limit the potential for adaptation within this landscape. These findings are of particular relevance for future conservation and management of American pikas and other elevationally restricted, thermally sensitive species.
MHC‐mediated sexual selection on birdsong: Generic polymorphism, particular alleles and acoustic signals
Authors: Garamszegi László Zsolt , Zagalska‐Neubauer Magdalena , Canal David , Blázi György , Laczi Miklós , Nagy Gergely , Szöllősi Eszter , Vaskuti Éva , Török János , Zsebők Sándor
Published: April 2018

Several hypotheses predict that the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) drives mating preference in females. Olfactory, colour or morphological traits are often found as reliable signals of the MHC profile, but the role of avian song mediating MHC‐based female choice remains largely unexplored. We investigated the relationship between several MHC and acoustic features in the collared flycatcher (Ficedula albicollis), a European passerine with complex songs. We screened a fragment of the class IIB second exon of the MHC molecule, of which individuals harbour 4–15 alleles, while considerable sequence diversity is maintained at the population level. To make statistical inferences from a large number of comparisons, we adopted both null‐hypothesis testing and effect size framework in combination with randomization procedures. After controlling for potential confounding factors, neither MHC allelic diversity nor the presence of particular alleles was associated remarkably with the investigated qualitative and quantitative song traits. Furthermore, genetic similarity among males based on MHC sequences was not reflected by the similarity in their song based on syllable content. Overall, these results suggest that the relationship between features of song and the allelic composition and diversity of MHC is not strong in the studied species. However, a biologically motivated analysis revealed that individuals that harbour an MHC allele that impairs survival perform songs with broader frequency range. This finding suggests that certain aspects of the song may bear reliable information concerning the MHC profile of the individuals, which can be used by females to optimize mate choice.
Temperature gradient affects differentiation of gene expression and SNP allele frequencies in the dominant Lake Baikal zooplankton species
Authors: Bowman Larry L. , Kondrateva Elizaveta S. , Timofeyev Maxim A. , Yampolsky Lev Y.
Published: April 2018

Local adaptation and phenotypic plasticity are main mechanisms of organisms’ resilience in changing environments. Both are affected by gene flow and are expected to be weak in zooplankton populations inhabiting large continuous water bodies and strongly affected by currents. Lake Baikal, the deepest and one of the coldest lakes on Earth, experienced epilimnion temperature increase during the last 100 years, exposing Baikal's zooplankton to novel selective pressures. We obtained a partial transcriptome of Epischura baikalensis (Copepoda: Calanoida), the dominant component of Baikal's zooplankton, and estimated SNP allele frequencies and transcript abundances in samples from regions of Baikal that differ in multiyear average surface temperatures. The strongest signal in both SNP and transcript abundance differentiation is the SW‐NE gradient along the 600+ km long axis of the lake, suggesting isolation by distance. SNP differentiation is stronger for nonsynonymous than synonymous SNPs and is paralleled by differential survival during a laboratory exposure to increased temperature, indicating directional selection operating on the temperature gradient. Transcript abundance, generally collinear with the SNP differentiation, shows samples from the warmest, less deep location clustering together with the southernmost samples. Differential expression is more frequent among transcripts orthologous to candidate thermal response genes previously identified in model arthropods, including genes encoding cytoskeleton proteins, heat‐shock proteins, proteases, enzymes of central energy metabolism, lipid and antioxidant pathways. We conclude that the pivotal endemic zooplankton species in Lake Baikal exists under temperature‐mediated selection and possesses both genetic variation and plasticity to respond to novel temperature‐related environmental pressures.
SOFA coagulation score and changes in platelet counts in severe acute kidney injury: Analysis from the randomized evaluation of normal versus augmented level (RENAL) study
Authors: Lin Jin , Gallagher Martin , Bellomo Rinaldo , Duan Meili , Trongtrakul Konlawi , Wang Amanda Ying ,   The Renal Study Investigators and the Anzics Clincal Trials Group
Published: April 2018

Aim

To evaluate the prognostic value of baseline SOFA coagulation score (SOFA‐CS) and change in platelet counts in patients with severe acute kidney injury (AKI) requiring continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT).

Methods

We performed a secondary analysis from the Randomized Evaluation of Normal versus Augmented Level of RRT (RENAL) study. The primary endpoint was all‐cause mortality at 90 days after randomization. The association between baseline SOFA‐CS, changes in platelet counts, process of care, and clinical outcomes were analyzed using multivariate Cox model adjusted for baseline variables.

Results

The complete SOFA‐CS data were available in 1454 out of 1508 patients from the RENAL study. Among them, 708 patients had an abnormal SOFA‐CS (defined as SOFA‐CS ≥ 1), while 746 patients had normal SOFA‐CS at baseline (SOFA‐CS = 0). An abnormal SOFA‐CS was independently associated with an increased risk of death at 90 days (HR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.05–1.53, P = 0.015). An abnormal SOFA‐CS was associated with prolonged length of ICU stay and duration of mechanical ventilation as well. Furthermore, there was no significant association between changes in platelet counts in patients who survived beyond 4 days and 90 day mortality (HR = 1.26, 95% CI = 0.29–5.56, P = 0.76). However, on multivariable analysis a decline of ≥60% (HR = 1.93, 95% CI = 1.23–3.05, P = 0.004) was associated with 90 day mortality in patients who survived beyond the first 4 days.

Conclusions

In the RENAL study, thrombocytopaenia is a common phenomenon in patients with severe AKI receiving CRRT. An abnormal baseline SOFA‐CS and reductions in platelet counts were associated with increased mortality at 90 days.
Through‐focus optical characteristics of monofocal and bifocal soft contact lenses across the peripheral visual field
Authors: Ji Qiuzhi , Yoo Young‐Sik , Alam Hira , Yoon Geunyoung
Published: April 2018

Purpose

To characterise the impact of monofocal soft contact lens (SCL) and bifocal SCLs on refractive error, depth of focus (DoF) and orientation of blur in the peripheral visual field.

Methods

Monofocal and two bifocal SCLs, Acuvue Bifocal (AVB, Johnson & Johnson) and Misight Dual Focus (DF, CooperVision) with +2.0 D add power were modelled using a ray tracing program (ZEMAX) based on their power maps. These SCLs were placed onto the anterior corneal surface of the simulated Atchison myopic eye model to correct for −3.0 D spherical refractive error at the fovea. To quantify through‐focus retinal image quality, defocus from −3.5 D to 1.5 D in 0.5 D steps was induced at each horizontal eccentricity from 0 to 40° in 10° steps. Wavefront aberrations were computed for each visual eccentricity and defocus. The retinal images were simulated using a custom software program developed in Matlab (The MathWorks) by convolving the point spread function calculated from the aberration with a reference image. The convolved images were spatially filtered to match the spatial resolution limit of each peripheral eccentricity. Retinal image quality was then quantified by the 2‐D cross‐correlation between the filtered convolved retinal images and the reference image. Peripheral defocus, DoF and orientation of blur were also estimated.

Results

In comparison with the monofocal SCL, the bifocal SCLs degraded retinal image quality while DoF was increased at fovea. From 10 to 20°, a relatively small amount of myopic shift (less than 0.3 D) was induced by bifocal SCLs compared with monofocal. DoF was also increased with bifocal SCLs at peripheral vision of 10 and 20°. The trend of myopic shift became less consistent at larger eccentricity, where at 30° DF showed a 0.75 D myopic shift while AVB showed a 0.2 D hyperopic shift and both AVB and DF exhibited large relative hyperopic defocus at 40°. The anisotropy in orientation of blur was found to increase and change its direction through focus beyond central vision. This trend was found to be less dominant with bifocal SCLs compared to monofocal SCL.

Conclusions

Bifocal SCLs have a relatively small impact on myopic shift in peripheral refractive error while DoF is increased significantly. We hypothetically suggest that a mechanism underlying myopia control with these bifocal or multifocal contact lenses is an increase in DoF and a decrease in anisotropy of peripheral optical blur.
How to Use Cognitive Faculties You Never Knew You Had
Authors: Moon Andrew
Published: April 2018

Norman forms the belief that the president is in New York by way of a clairvoyance faculty he doesn’t know he has. Many agree that his belief is unjustified but disagree about why it is unjustified. I argue that the lack of justification cannot be explained by a higher‐level evidence requirement on justification, but it can be explained by a no‐defeater requirement. I then explain how you can use cognitive faculties you don’t know you have. Lastly, I use lessons from the foregoing to compare Norman's belief, formed by clairvoyance, with Sally's theistic belief, formed by a sensus divinitatis.
A Trade Credit Model with Asymmetric Competing Retailers
Authors: Wu Desheng , Zhang Baofeng , Baron Opher
Published: April 2018

We study a supply chain of a manufacturer selling to two asymmetric retailers engaged in inventory (order quantity) competition in the presence of demand uncertainty and an exogenously given retail price. The effective demand of each retailer includes its primary demand and reallocated demand from its competitor. We model two salient features causing asymmetry: (i) the weak retailer is capital‐constrained and (ii) the bargaining power of the dominant retailer implies that it enjoys a lower wholesale price. The manufacturer offers trade credit to the weak, capital‐constrained retailer. We show that such trade credit can be used by the manufacturer as a strategic response to the bargaining power of its dominant retailer. Computational examples reveal that under inventory competition, the capital‐constrained retailer benefits from the trade credit, leaving the dominant retailer worse off. We show that demand substitution increases the profit of the dominant retailer and the manufacturer but, somewhat surprisingly, decreases the weak retailer's profit. When both bank and trade credit are available, we show conditions under which trade credit is preferred over bank credit by the manufacturer. Compared with a trade credit with an endogenous interest rate (and an exogenously given wholesale price), a trade credit with an endogenous wholesale price (and an exogenously given interest rate) is preferred by the manufacturer, but is only preferred by the system when the weak retailer's initial working capital is small.
Photosynthetic responses to photosynthetically active radiation and temperature including chilling‐light stress on the heteromorphic life history stages of a brown alga, Cladosiphon okamuranus (Chordariaceae) from Ryukyu Islands, Japan
Authors: Fukumoto Rika , Borlongan Iris Ann , Nishihara Gregory N. , Endo Hikaru , Terada Ryuta
Published: April 2018

Photosynthetic responses to temperature and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) were investigated on the heteromorphic life history stages (macroscopic and microscopic stages) of an edible Japanese brown alga, Cladosiphon okamuranus from the Ryukyu Islands. Measurements were carried out by using optical dissolved oxygen sensors and a pulse‐amplitude modulated fluorometer. Maximum net photosynthetic rates and other parameters of the Photosynthesis – PAR curves at 28°C were somewhat similar in both life history stages, without characteristic photoinhibition at 1000 μmol photons m−2 s−1. Results of oxygenic gross photosynthesis and dark respiration experiments over a temperature range of 8–40°C revealed similar temperature optima for both stages (29.7°C, macroscopic stage; 30.3°C, microscopic stage), which support their observed occurrences in the habitat during summer. Maximum quantum yields of photosystem II (PSII) (F
v/F
m) were relatively stable at low temperatures with the highest at 15.1°C for the macroscopic stage and at 16.5°C for the microscopic stage; but dropped at higher temperatures especially above 28°C. Continuous exposures (6 h) to 200 and 1000 μmol photons m−2 s−1 at 8, 16, and 28°C revealed greater depressions in effective quantum yields of PSII (Φ
PSII) of the microscopic stage at 8°C, as well as its F
v/F
m that barely increased after 6 h of dark acclimation. Whereas post‐dark acclimation F
v/F
m of both stages exposed to low PAR fairly recovered at 28°C, suggesting their photosynthetic tolerance to such high temperature. Under natural conditions, both heteromorphic stages of C. okamuranus may persist throughout the year in this region. Beyond its northern limit of distribution, the microscopic stage of this species may suffer from photodamage, as enhanced by low winter temperatures; hence, its restricted occurrence.
Prognostic factors and disease behaviour of pathologically proven fibrotic non‐specific interstitial pneumonia
Authors: Yamakawa Hideaki , Kitamura Hideya , Takemura Tamiko , Ikeda Satoshi , Sekine Akimasa , Baba Tomohisa , Iwasawa Tae , Hagiwara Eri , Sato Shinji , Ogura Takashi
Published: April 2018

Background and objective

Non‐specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP) has heterogeneous characteristics in terms of background, disease behaviour and prognosis. This study of fibrotic NSIP (f‐NSIP) aimed to elucidate prognosis and disease behaviour from the viewpoint of clinical background and determine whether long‐term change of pulmonary function could provide useful prognostic information.

Methods

We analysed the medical records of 157 consecutive patients diagnosed with f‐NSIP by surgical lung biopsy. Disease behaviour was categorized into two groups depending on long‐term change of pulmonary function: progressive type (relative ≥5%/year decline in the slope of forced vital capacity and/or relative ≥7.5%/year decline in the slope of %diffusing capacity of lung carbon monoxide) or stable type. Predictors of disease behaviour and prognosis were determined using logistic and Cox regression models.

Results

Our f‐NSIP cohort included interstitial pneumonia with autoimmune features (IPAF) (36.9%), idiopathic (non‐IPAF) (22.3%) and connective tissue disease‐associated interstitial lung disease (40.8%). Multivariate analysis showed that idiopathic (non‐IPAF) f‐NSIP and progressive type disease were negative prognostic factors of mortality. Poor treatment response at 1 year was an independent predictor of progressive type disease, but was not related to survival. In terms of disease behaviour based on pulmonary function change, some patients with IPAF f‐NSIP showed a progressive course.

Conclusion

Although an IPAF diagnosis was useful for identifying good prognosis in idiopathic f‐NSIP, some idiopathic f‐NSIP patients with or without IPAF showed progressive disease despite therapy. The definition of progressive type disease may be useful in clinical decision‐making when determining therapy for f‐NSIP.
GeneXpert MTB/RIF for rapid diagnosis and rifampin resistance detection of endobronchial tuberculosis
Authors: Zhang Qin , Zhang Qing , Sun Bing‐qi , Liu Chang , Su An‐na , Wang Xiao‐han , Liu Na , Zhang Juan , Kang Jian , Hou Gang
Published: April 2018

Background and objective

Delayed diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis (TB) contribute to poor outcomes, especially for endobronchial TB (EBTB), which typically leads to tracheobronchial stenosis. Finding rapid and accurate diagnostic tools for EBTB is crucial. GeneXpert Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB)/rifampin (RIF) was recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a standard molecular biological diagnostic technique for MTB. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of GeneXpert MTB/RIF for diagnosing EBTB and for evaluating RIF resistance.

Methods

Biopsy tissue and bronchial brushings from EBTB patients were prospectively assessed with GeneXpert MTB/RIF. The diagnostic yields of auramine O‐stained sputum smears and bronchial brush smears were obtained, and the results were compared with the cultures of sputum and biopsy tissues for MTB.

Results

In 61 confirmed cases of EBTB, the sensitivities of sputum smear, bronchial brush smear, sputum culture and tissue culture to diagnose EBTB were 13.1%, 32.8%, 36.1% and 68.9%, respectively. For bronchial brushings and biopsies, our data showed sensitivities of 57.4% and 63.9%, respectively, and a specificity of 100% for GeneXpert MTB/RIF, and these results were superior to those of sputum smears, bronchial brush smears and sputum culture. GeneXpert MTB/RIF for bronchial brushings and biopsies showed complementarity in its diagnostic performance. Resistance to RIF was identified in 17.4% (8/46) of GeneXpert MTB‐positive cases.

Conclusion

GeneXpert MTB/RIF may enable more rapid EBTB diagnosis and determination of RIF resistance, which are crucial for timely treatment.
The impact of nursing education and job characteristics on nurse's perceptions of their family nursing practice skills
Authors: Svavarsdottir Erla Kolbrun , Sigurdardottir Anna Olafia , Konradsdottir Elisabet , Tryggvadottir Gudny Bergthora
Published: April 2018

Background

Implementing family system nursing in clinical settings is on the rise. However, little is known about the impact of graduate school education as well as continuing education in family systems nursing (FSN) on nurses’ perceptions of their family nursing practice.

Aims

To evaluate the level of nursing education, having taken a continuing hospital educational course in family system nursing (FN‐ETI programme), and the impact of job characteristics on nurses’ perceptions of their family nursing practice skills.

Design and Methods

Participants were 436 nurses with either a BSc degree or graduate degree in nursing. The Job Demand, Control and Support model guided the study (R. Karasek and T. Theorell, 1992, Healthy Work: Stress, Productivity, and the Reconstruction of Working Life, Basic Books, New York, NY). Scores for the characteristics of job demands and job control were created to categorise participants into four job types: high strain (high demand, low control), passive (low demand, low control), low strain (low demand, high control) and active (high demand, high control).

Results

Nurses with a graduate education who had taken the FN‐ETI programme scored significantly higher on the Family Nursing Practice Scale than nurses with an undergraduate education. Nurses who were characterised as low strain or active scored significantly higher on the Family Nursing Practice Scale than the nurses who were characterised as high strain. Further, the interaction of education by job type was significant regarding family nursing practice skills. Hierarchical regression revealed 25% of the variance in family nursing practice skills was explained by job control, family policy on the unit, graduate education and employment on the following divisions: Maternal‐Child, Emergency, Mental Health or Internal Medicine.

Conclusion

Graduate education plus continuing education in FSN can offer nurses increased job opportunities more control over one's work as well as increased skills working with families in clinical settings.
Knowledge, perceived skills and activities of nursing staff to support oral home care among older domiciliary care clients
Authors: Salmi Riikka , Tolvanen Mimmi , Suhonen Riitta , Lahti Satu , Närhi Timo
Published: April 2018

Background

Increasing number of older adults lives in their own homes, but needs help in many daily routines. Domiciliary care nursing staff (DCNS) is often needed to support oral home care. However, information of nursing staff's knowledge, skills and activity in this task is sparse.

Objectives

The study aimed to assess DCNS knowledge, perceived skills and activities to support oral home care of older domiciliary care clients.

Material and methods

The study was conducted among DCNS in one of the largest cities in Finland. All DCNS members (n = 465) received a questionnaire with 14 multiple choice and open questions regarding the perceived skills, knowledge and activities of oral health guidance of older domiciliary care clients. In total, 115 (25%) DCNS members returned the questionnaires. Frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations were used to describe the samples and study variables. DCNS was categorised according to age and working years for group comparisons, which were assessed with chi‐squared test.

Results

Knowledge concerning oral health was mostly on a high level. Around 50% of DCNS considered their knowledge regarding dental prosthesis hygiene as sufficient. Of the DCNS, 67% informed that they had received education on oral health care. However, over 50% of the DCNS had a need for further education in issues related to oral home care. DCNS were active in supporting most oral and prosthesis hygiene means, yet less in guidance concerning toothbrushing. Activity to support cleaning the interdental spaces was the weakest, in which only 12% of the respondents considered having average or excellent skills. Younger DCNS had better knowledge on oral home care due to recent education, but older staff members were more skilful in performing oral hygiene measures.

Conclusions

There is a need for structured instructions and training on oral home care for DCNS. Oral home care should be taken into account more often and regularly.
Political legitimacy and welfare state futures: Introduction
Authors: Chung Heejung , Taylor‐Gooby Peter , Leruth Benjamin
Published: April 2018

Welfare attitudes are pivotal in understanding the preferences and demands of citizens to help shape future policy reforms in welfare states. Accordingly, and due to the availability of large scale comparative survey data on attitudes, large numbers of studies of welfare attitudes have emerged during the past few decades. However, some limitations still exist in the field, such as the background assumptions informing the questionnaire design and top–down framing of issues, the population represented, and, lastly, limitations in teasing out the causal mechanisms of relationships, especially pertaining to that of policy reform. This regional issue brings together articles that address some of these issues and others in welfare attitude research to provide some guidance for future studies. This article first summarizes the existing studies on welfare attitudes to identify some of the key limitations, and introduces the five articles in this issue. It concludes with some suggestions for future studies in welfare attitudes.
Genomic sequences of five novel HLA class I alleles: A*30:129, B*08:195, B*51:01:62, C*01:147 and C*12:195:02
Authors: Balas A. , Alenda R. , Moreno‐Hidalgo M. A. , García‐Sánchez F. , Vicario J. L.
Published: April 2018

Five new HLA class I alleles are described, A*30:129, B*08:195, B*51:01:62, C*01:147 and C*12:195:02.
7‐Ketocholesterol impairs phagocytosis and efferocytosis via dysregulation of phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐bisphosphate
Authors: Lu Stella M. , Fairn Gregory D.
Published: April 2018

The plasma membrane is inhomogeneously organized containing both highly ordered and disordered nanodomains. 7‐Ketocholesterol (7KC), an oxysterol formed from the nonenzymatic oxidation of cholesterol, is a potent disruptor of membrane order. Importantly, 7KC is a component of oxidized low‐density lipoprotein and accumulates in macrophage and foam cells found in arterial plaques. Using a murine macrophage cell line, J774, we report that both IgG‐mediated and phosphatidylserine‐mediated phagocytic pathways are inhibited by the accumulation of 7KC. Examination of the well‐studied Fcγ receptor pathway revealed that the cell surface receptor abundance and ligand binding are unaltered while downstream signaling and activation of spleen tyrosine kinase is not affected. However, while the recruitment of phospholipase Cγ1 was unaffected its apparent enzymatic activity was compromised resulting in sustained phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐bisphosphate [PtdIns(4,5)P2] levels and polymerized actin at the base of the phagocytic cup. Additionally, we found that 7KC prevented the activation of PLCβ downstream of the P2Y6 G‐protein coupled receptor and that 7KC impaired PLCγ activity in response to a direct elevation of cytosolic calcium induced by ionomycin. Finally, we demonstrate that 7KC partly attenuates the activity of rapamycin recruitable constitutively active PLCβ3. Together, our results demonstrate that the accumulation of 7KC impairs macrophage function by altering PtdIns(4,5)P2 catabolism and, thus, impairing actin depolymerization required for the completion of phagocytosis.
PCR analysis of a prescription vegetarian diet and use in three dogs with cutaneous adverse food reactions
Authors: Aufox Erin E. , May Elizabeth R. , Frank Linda A. , Kania Stephen A.
Published: April 2018

Background

Cutaneous adverse food reaction (CAFR) is diagnosed by performing an elimination diet trial utilizing prescription or home‐cooked diets followed by provocative challenge.

Objectives

To report findings of PCR analysis of a prescription vegetarian diet (RCV) for undeclared proteins of animal origin, as well as to describe its utilization for diagnosis and management of dogs suspected of having CAFR.

Animals

Three client‐owned dogs.

Methods

PCR analysis of RCV for 11 mammalian species and poultry. In three dogs, clinical examination, cytology, aerobic culture (if indicated) and at least one elimination diet trial with RCV.

Results

In our case series, all dogs had a history of pruritus and recurrent pyoderma that resolved with infection control and an elimination diet trial. In cases 1 and 2, a diagnosis of CAFR was made following an elimination trial with RCV and provocative challenge. Case 3 had a previously confirmed diagnosis of CAFR and RCV was successfully used to maintain remission of CAFR‐related signs. PCR testing of RCV was negative for 11 mammalian species and poultry.

Conclusions and clinical importance

The RCV diet was found not to contain any undeclared mammalian or avian proteins. In this case series, the RCV was successfully used to diagnose and maintain three dogs with CAFR.
Analysis of the Relationship Between Body Perception Levels and Social Appearance Anxieties in the Students of School of Physical Education and Sports
Authors: Çetinkaya Turan
Published: April 2018

The aim of this research is to analyse the relationship between body perceptions and social appearance anxiety of the students that are in physical education and sports departments. 240 students that are studying in the departments of Physical Education and Sports Teaching, Sports Management and Coaching Training at Ahi Evran University, School of Physical Education and Sports, participated in the research. Personal information form, body perception scale and social appearance anxiety scale were used as data collection tools in the research. Distribution, frequency, t test and colleration analysis were performed in comparison of the relevant data. As a result of statistical analysis, there was no significant difference in body perception scores of the participants in terms of gender, smoking and alcohol use, but there was a significant difference in terms of licensed athletic variances. In the colleration analysis, significant negative relation between the participants' body perceptions and social anxiety scores were detected.
Hearing sensitivity to gliding rippled spectrum patterns
Authors: Nechaev Dmitry I. , Milekhina Olga N. , Supin Alexander Ya.
Published: April 2018

The sensitivity of human hearing to gliding rippled spectrum patterns of sound was investigated. The test signal was 2-oct wide rippled noise with the ripples gliding along the frequency scale. Both ripple density and gliding velocity were frequency-proportional across the signal band; i.e., the density was specified in ripples/oct and the velocity was specified in oct/s and ripple/s. The listener was required to discriminate between a test signal with gliding ripples and a non-rippled reference signal. Limits of gliding velocity were measured as a function of ripple density. The ripple gliding velocity limit decreased with an increasing ripple density: from 388.9 oct/s (388.9 ripple/s) at a ripple density of 1 ripple/oct to 11.3 oct/s (79.1 ripple/s) at a density of 7 ripple/oct. These tendencies could be approximated by log/log regression functions with slopes of 1.71 for the velocity expressed in oct/s and 0.71 for the velocity expressed in ripple/s. A qualitative model based on combined action of the excitation-pattern and the temporal-processing mechanism is suggested to explain the results.
Most atolls will be uninhabitable by the mid-21st century because of sea-level rise exacerbating wave-driven flooding
Authors: Storlazzi Curt D. , Gingerich Stephen B. , van Dongeren Ap , Cheriton Olivia M. , Swarzenski Peter W. , Quataert Ellen , Voss Clifford I. , Field Donald W. , Annamalai Hariharasubramanian , Piniak Greg A. , McCall Robert
Published: April 2018

Sea-level rise and wave-driven flooding will damage freshwater resources of most atolls and soon render them uninhabitable.
Neuronal noise as an origin of sleep arousals and its role in sudden infant death syndrome
Authors: Dvir Hila , Elbaz Idan , Havlin Shlomo , Appelbaum Lior , Ivanov Plamen Ch. , Bartsch Ronny P.
Published: April 2018

Temperature-induced arousability during sleep is a missing piece in the puzzle for triggers of sudden infant death syndrome.
Exoskeletal cyborg-type robot
Authors: Sankai Yoshiyuki , Sakurai Takeru
Published: April 2018

Cybernics—the fusion of humans, robots, and information systems—is shaping the way toward novel methods of medical care.
Cybathlon: How to promote the development of assistive technologies
Authors: Wolf Peter , Riener Robert
Published: April 2018

Cybathlon invites people with disabilities to compete by solving everyday tasks with support from new assistance technologies.
A digital microfluidic system for serological immunoassays in remote settings
Authors: Ng Alphonsus H. C. , Fobel Ryan , Fobel Christian , Lamanna Julian , Rackus Darius G. , Summers Aimee , Dixon Christopher , Dryden Michael D. M. , Lam Charis , Ho Man , Mufti Nooman S. , Lee Victor , Asri Mohd Afiq Mohd , Sykes Edward A. , Chamberlain M. Dean , Joseph Rachael , Ope Maurice , Scobie Heather M. , Knipes Alaine , Rota Paul A. , Marano Nina , Chege Paul M. , Njuguna Mary , Nzunza Rosemary , Kisangau Ngina , Kiogora John , Karuingi Michael , Burton John Wagacha , Borus Peter , Lam Eugene , Wheeler Aaron R.
Published: April 2018

Portable digital microfluidic serological immunoassays for measles and rubella were developed and evaluated in a remote setting.
Pharmacokinetics of Anidulafungin in Obese and Normal-Weight Adults
Authors: Wasmann Roeland E. , ter Heine Rob , van Dongen Eric P. , Burger David M. , Lempers Vincent J. , Knibbe Catherijne A. , Brüggemann Roger J.
Published: April 2018

In 2025, approximately one out of five adults will be obese. Physiological changes associated with obesity have been shown to influence the pharmacokinetics of drugs. Anidulafungin is frequently used in critically ill patients, and to achieve optimal efficacy, it is essential that its dose is appropriate for each patient's characteristics. We combined data from obese subjects with data from normal-weight subjects and determined an optimal dosing regimen for obese patients by population pharmacokinetic modeling. Twenty adults, 12 of which were normal-weight healthy subjects (median weight, 67.7 kg; range, 61.5 to 93.6 kg) and 8 of which were morbidly obese subjects (median weight, 149.7 kg; range, 124.1 to 166.5 kg) were included in the analysis. Subjects received a single dose of 100 mg anidulafungin intravenously over 90 min, upon which blood samples were obtained. Monte Carlo simulations were performed to optimize dosing in obesity. A three-compartment model and equal volumes of distribution described the data best. Total body weight was identified as a descriptor for both clearance and the volume of distribution, but the effect of weight on these parameters was limited. Simulations showed that with the licensed 100-mg dose, more than 97% of subjects with a weight above 140 kg will have an area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 24 h of less than 99 mg · h/liter (the reference value for normal-weight individuals). We found that in obese and normal-weight subjects, weight influenced both of the anidulafungin pharmacokinetic parameters clearance and volume of distribution, implying a lower exposure to anidulafungin in (morbidly) obese individuals. Consequently, a 25% increase in the loading and maintenance doses could be considered in patients weighing more than 140 kg.