bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infiltrating Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes and Apoptotic Bodies Derived From Hepatocytes but Not From Ballooning Hepatocytes Containing Mallory Bodies Show Nuclear DNA Fragmentation in Alcoholic Hepatitis
Authors: Takahashi Toru , So‐Wan Tan , Kamimura Tomoteru , Asakura Hitoshi
Published: November 2018

Background: The mechanism of liver cell death in alcoholic hepatitis is still controversial. There is evidence that polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) which infiltrate liver parenchyma are involved in liver cell death.

Methods: We employed terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated deoxyuridine triphosphatedigoxigenin nick end labeling (TUNEL) method to determine the cells that underwent apoptosis in liver specimens obtained from 1 normal liver, 23 livers with nonalcoholic liver disease, and 11 livers with alcoholic liver diseases (4 alcoholic hepatic fibrosis, 4 alcoholic hepatitis, and 3 alcoholic cirrhosis). The Fas, bcl‐2, and CD15 antigens were immunolocalized to analyze the relationship between these antigens and apoptosis.

Results: Few TUNEL‐positive reactions were found in normal liver. Apoptotic bodies in acute and chronic viral hepatitis were found to be TUNEL‐positive. TUNEL‐positive materials were also abundant in the cytoplasm of macrophages at the area of parenchymal collapse in viral liver diseases. Mononuclear cells that infiltrated liver parenchyma and portal tracts occasionally showed TUNEL‐positive reactions, which reflected the activation‐induced apoptosis of T lymphocytes. In alcoholic liver diseases, the incidence of apoptotic bodies derived from hepatocytes varied from 0 to 1.00/mm2. In addition, a considerable portion (0.2‐16.5%) of infiltrating PMNs in alcoholic hepatitis were TUNEL‐positive. In contrast, the nuclei of ballooning hepatocytes that contained Mallory bodies revealed few positive TUNEL reactions. Interestingly, the density of CD15‐positive PMNs was well correlated with peripheral white blood cell counts (r = 0.842, p < 0.005).

Conclusions: PMNs that infiltrate liver parenchyma show an activation‐induced cell death‐like phenomenon in alcoholic hepatitis, like activated T cells that infiltrate in viral hepatitis. This apoptosis phenomenon may follow the degranulation of PMNs, which may cause a necrosis of ballooning hepatocytes that contain Mallory bodies through satellitosis.
Immunohistochemical Study on Acetaldehyde Adducts in Alcohol‐Fed Mice
Authors: Nakamura Kazuhiko , Iwahashi Kazuhiko , Itoh Masahiro , Ameno Kiyoshi , Ijiri Iwao , Takeuchi Yoshiki , Suwaki Hiroshi
Published: November 2018

Background: Acetaldehyde binds to some proteins, which results in Schiff base formation. It is assumed that acetaldehyde binds to the proteins after the consumption of ethanol, to form an adduct. Such acetaldehyde adducts are related to organ disease.

Methods: We examined 8‐week‐old male BALB/c mice, which were given a liquid diet for 7 days. The diet consisted of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and a 5% (v/v) ethanol solution. After the 7 days, we took tissue samples from the brain, liver, and adrenal cortex to investigate the distribution of acetaldehyde adducts. We performed immunohistochemical staining of the cerebral cortex, liver, and adrenal cortex from the mice by using antibodies against acetaldehyde adducts.

Results: Our study showed that acetaldehyde adducts formed in the cerebral cortex in the early phase in alcohol‐fed mice.

Conclusions: Because acetaldehyde in the liver has been shown to cause liver damage, our study suggests a relationship between acetaldehyde adducts in the brain and brain damage.
Effects of Alcohol Consumption on Histological Changes in Chronic Hepatitis C: A Clinicopathological Study
Authors: Tamai Toru , Seki Toshihito , Shiro Tomohiro , Nakagawa Taiichi , Wakabayashi Masayuki , Imamura Masato , Nishimura Akira , Yamashiki Noriyo , Takasu Masashi , Inoue Kyoichi , Okamura Akiharu
Published: November 2018

Background:To assess the effects of alcohol on the histological changes in chronic hepatitis type C, we performed histopathological examination on liver biopsy specimens by using a semiquantitative method.

Methods:Subjects were 91 patients with chronic hepatitis type C and 32 with alcoholic liver disease. The patients with chronic hepatitis type C were classified into three groups according to the total amount of alcohol intake: nondrinkers, moderate drinkers, and heavy drinkers. For each patient, we evaluated pathological changes of several items and awarded scores from 0 to 2 points, with severe to moderate scoring 2 points, mild 1, and negative 0; the total score was then compared between groups. The evaluated histological changes included virus‐related histological changes (VI, inflammatory cell infiltration; V2, lymphoid follicle formation; and V3, bile duct damage) and alcohol‐related changes (A1, perivenular fibrosis; A2, stellate/pericellular fibrosis; and A3, fatty change).

Results:The total scores of the hepatitis C virus‐related histological changes were significantly lower in patients with alcoholic liver disease (ALD group) (p< 0.05). However, we found no significant difference between the different alcohol intake groups. The total score for alcohol‐related histological changes significantly increased in line with increases in total alcoholic intake regardless of the presence or absence of hepatitis type C virus infection (p< 0.05).

Conclusions:The results suggest that both alcoholic‐related liver damage and virus‐related liver damage have specific features; in a addition, alcohol was found to have little effect on the histological liver damage observed in chronic hepatitis type C.
Organizational determinants of bullying and work disengagement among hospital nurses
Authors: Arnetz Judith E. , Sudan Sukhesh , Fitzpatrick Laurie , Cotten Shelia R. , Jodoin Christine , Chang Chu‐Hsiang (Daisy) , Arnetz Bengt B.
Published: November 2018

Aims

To identify organizational determinants of bullying and resulting work disengagement among hospital nurses.

Design

A cross‐sectional, web‐based, anonymous questionnaire study.

Methods

The questionnaire was administered in 2017 to all Registered Nurses in a regional healthcare system in the United States (N = 1,780), with 331 complete responses. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with personally experiencing and witnessing bullying, respectively. Linear regression was conducted to identify organizational factors associated with disengagement due to bullying.

Results

Psychological safety, a measure of team trust and respect, was inversely associated with being personally bullied and witnessing bullying. Being personally bullied, but not witnessing bullying, was associated with disengagement due to bullying. Psychological safety and competence development, a measure of opportunities to develop skills and knowledge at work, were both inversely associated with disengagement due to bullying.

Conclusion

Hospital units characterized by trust and respect among nurses are less likely to have a culture of bullying. Both psychological safety and competence development have a protective effect on nurse disengagement from the workplace due to bullying. Interventions to mitigate and prevent bullying and work disengagement among nurses should encompass efforts to enhance psychological safety and opportunities for competence development.

Impact

Bullying is a pervasive hazard in the nursing profession that contributes to unhealthy workplaces. Nurse managers and staff nurses should work together to establish psychologically safe environments where nurses dare to discuss tough issues like bullying. This research contributes to understanding the characteristics of work environments in which nurses can thrive and work effectively.
Evolving in isolation: Genetic tests reject recent connections of Amazonian savannas with the central Cerrado
Authors: Resende‐Moreira Luciana C. , Knowles L. Lacey , Thomaz Andréa T. , Prado Joyce R. , Souto Andrea P. , Lemos‐Filho José P. , Lovato Maria Bernadete
Published: November 2018

Aim

The effects of past climatic shifts remain enigmatic for the Amazon region, especially for islands of savanna within the tropical forest known as “Amazonian savannas” (AS). These disjunct savanna areas share many plant and animal species with the Cerrado biome in central Brazil (the CC), fuelling debate over historical connections. We evaluate hypothesized corridors between the CC and the AS, and specifically investigate whether a history of isolation versus recent connections is supported by genetic tests.

Location

Cerrado and Amazon biomes.

Taxon

Two woody plant species: Byrsonima coccolobifolia and B. crassifolia (Malpighiaceae).

Methods

Analyses of genomic data (SNPs from more than 4,500 loci) in 28 populations, as well as chloroplast DNA (cpDNA), were used to test for parallel geographic structuring between the CC and AS—an expected structure if putative corridors provided regional connections between different areas of the CC and AS, and divergence times between the CC and AS were estimated using a composite‐likelihood method based on the site frequency spectrum.

Results

Genomic data, in contrast with cpDNA, generally show strong, concordant genetic structure between the CC and AS in both species, rather than regional grouping of CC with AS populations. In addition, divergence between the CC and AS predates the Last Glacial Maximum.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest the AS have remained relatively isolated from the CC even though the strong structure of genomic variation is not shared by cpDNA. We note that past evidence of putative corridors between the CC and AS based solely on cpDNA should be interpreted cautiously since the lack of structure may reflect limited genetic resolution rather than gene flow. As such, the uniqueness of AS may be more pronounced than previously thought, highlighting the importance of protecting these highly threatened areas.
Identifying Noise Shocks: A VAR with Data Revisions
Authors: MASOLO RICCARDO M. , PACCAGNINI ALESSIA
Published: November 2018

We propose a new Vector Autoregression (VAR) identification strategy to study the impact of noise, in the early releases of output growth figures, which exploits the informational advantage of the econometrician. Economic agents, uncertain about the underlying state of the economy, respond to noisy early data releases. Econometricians, with the benefit of hindsight, have access to data revisions as well, which we use to identify noise shocks. A surprising report of output growth produces qualitatively similar but quantitatively smaller effects than a demand shock. We also illustrate how a noise shock cannot be identified unless ex‐post information is used.
Incidence of late‐acquired stent malapposition of drug eluting stents with second generation permanent and biodegradable polymer coatings—A prospective, randomized comparison using optical coherence tomography
Authors: Roth Christian , Gangl Clemens , Dalos Daniel , Delle‐Karth Georg , Neunteufl Thomas , Berger Rudolf
Published: November 2018

Objectives and Background

Polymer coatings of drug‐eluting stents (DES) may induce allergic reactions and inflammation, resulting in late‐acquired stent malapposition (LASM) with the risk of stent thrombosis. This study evaluated, if biodegradable polymer (BP) reduces the incidence of LASM compared to permanent polymer (PP) after treatment with newer generation DES.

Methods and Results

Fifty patients with 59 lesions were randomized (2:1) to elective treatment with second generation PP‐DES (n = 32, 39 stents), either Everolimus‐eluting or Zotarolimus‐eluting stents, or with BP‐DES (Biolimus‐eluting stents [BES]; n = 18, 20 stents) and underwent optical coherence tomography directly after implantation and after 1 year. After implantation acute stent malappositions (ASM) were documented in 30 stents (51%) distributed to 22 stents treated with PP‐DES (56%) and 8 with BP‐DES (40%; n.s.). After 1 year, late stent malappositions (LSM) were detected in 14 stents (24 %); ASM persisted (APSM) in 9 stents after one year (7 PP‐DES—18%, 2 BES—10%), whereas ASM resolved in 21 stents. In addition, LASM was documented in nine stents including five stents without and four stents with additional APSM. All LASM were located in PP‐DES (n = 9; 23%), none in BP‐DES (P = 0.022). Compared to the reference lumen area, in‐stent lumen area of stents without LASM was smaller due to neointimal hyperplasia (P = 0.021), whereas in‐stent lumen area at maximum LASM of stents with LASM was larger due to positive remodeling (P = 0.002).

Conclusions

In conclusion the use of BP‐DES reduced the occurrence of LASM due to positive remodeling compared to second generation PP‐DES.
Oxysterols in intestinal immunity and inflammation
Authors: Willinger T.
Published: November 2018

Cholesterol is an essential molecule for life. It is a component of the cell membrane, and it is a precursor molecule for bile acids, vitamin D and steroid hormones. Cholesterol is actively metabolized, but the impact of endogenous cholesterol metabolites on immune function, especially in the intestine, is poorly understood. In this review, I focus on oxysterols, hydroxylated forms of cholesterol, and their specialized functions in intestinal immunity. Oxysterols act through various intracellular and extracellular receptors and serve as key metabolic signals, coordinating immune activity and inflammation. Our recent work has identified an unexpected link between cholesterol metabolism, innate lymphoid cell function and intestinal homeostasis. We discovered that oxysterol sensing through the G protein‐coupled receptor 183 (GPR183) directs the migration of innate lymphoid cells, which is essential for the formation of lymphoid tissue in the colon. Moreover, we found that the interaction of GPR183 with oxysterols regulates intestinal inflammation. I will discuss the therapeutic potential of oxysterols and future possibilities of treating inflammatory bowel disease through the modulation of cholesterol metabolism.
Load‐Bearing Capacity of Monolithic Zirconia Fixed Dental Prostheses Fabricated with Different Connector Designs and Embrasure Shaping Methods
Authors: Bakitian Fahad , Seweryniak Przemek , Papia Evaggelia , Larsson Christel , Vult von Steyern Per
Published: November 2018

Purpose

To investigate the load‐bearing capacity and failure mode of monolithic zirconia fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) fabricated with different connector designs and embrasure shaping methods.

Materials and Methods

Seventy four‐unit zirconia FDPs (with two premolar pontics) were fabricated and divided into seven groups (n = 10) according to the different connector designs gained by using different embrasure shaping methods. The groups were as follows: monolithic FDPs fabricated with sharp embrasures, monolithic FDPs fabricated with blunt embrasures, monolithic FDPs fabricated with blunt embrasures and no occlusal embrasures, two groups of monolithic FDPs fabricated with blunt embrasures and interproximal separations made with diamond discs at the soft stage and at the fully sintered stage, and monolithic FDPs fabricated with blunt embrasures and interproximal separation accentuated by localized porcelain build‐up. A final group was used as a control group, where fully veneered traditional zirconia FDPs were fabricated with default milling settings. The FDPs were artificially aged and loaded to fracture. Load to fracture and failure modes were analyzed by one‐way ANOVA, Tukey's post hoc test, and Fisher exact test (α = 0.05).

Results

The FDPs fabricated with interproximal porcelain separation showed significantly the highest load to fracture (1038 N ± 82) of all groups (p < 0.001), with no significant difference compared to the FDPs with no occlusal embrasures (934 N ± 175; p ˃ 0.29). The FDPs fabricated with blunt embrasures showed significantly higher load to fracture (873 N ± 115) compared to the FDPs in the control group (689 N ± 75) and the FDPs with sharp embrasures (417 N ± 87; p < 0.001). There were no significant differences between the FDPs with sharp embrasures (417 N ± 87) and the FDPs with interproximal disc separations (467 N ± 94; p ˃ 0.23). Failure mode of the FDPs fabricated with sharp embrasures and interproximal disc separations differed significantly compared to the FDPs in the other groups (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Sharp embrasures and interproximal separations made with diamond discs significantly decrease the load‐bearing capacity of monolithic zirconia FDPs compared to FDPs made with blunt embrasures. Blunt embrasures in combination with localized porcelain build‐up produce FDPs with high load‐bearing capacity in relation to loads that might be expected under clinical use.
Comparative morphology of the deer ked Lipoptena fortisetosa first recorded from Italy
Authors: Andreani A. , Sacchetti P. , Belcari A.
Published: November 2018

Hippoboscidae flies parasitize various animal species. Knowledge about these insects remains sparse, although they are known to cause stress and damage to their hosts, and can also accidentally infest humans, causing different sanitary risks. Research conducted in Tuscany assessing the biology and distribution of Lipoptena cervi (Linnaeus, 1758) (Diptera: Hippoboscidae), the most common ectoparasite of ungulates in Italy, revealed the presence of Lipoptena fortisetosa Maa, 1965 in Italy for the first time. This study includes a morphological comparative description of L. cervi and L. fortisetosa, emphasizing the peculiar differences between the two species to facilitate their accurate identification. The most pertinent morphological differences between the two species are highlighted, such as the external features of the antennae, distribution of bristles, and different features in the external genitalia. In both species, scanning electron microscopy of mouthparts revealed strong adaptive convergence in the feeding apparatus. Modified palps and a very thin proboscis are described in relation to feeding behaviour.
Factors influencing sexual risk behaviors among adolescents: A community‐based participatory study
Authors: Settheekul Saowaluck , Fongkaew Warunee , Viseskul Nongkran , Boonchieng Waraporn , Voss Joachim G.
Published: November 2018

Pregnancy rates and unprotected sex among Thai adolescents continue to increase. The aim of this community‐based participatory study was to identify gender differences in sexual behaviors and sexual risk factors, and to examine factors associated with sexual risk behaviors among 397 adolescents in northern Thailand. Twenty two community researchers facilitated the data collection by using smart phones or tablet computers on a privacy basis. Ordinal and logistic regressions identified predictors influencing pre‐coital behaviors and sexual behaviors. The results showed that males were more likely than females to engage in pre‐coital and sexual behaviors. Significant predictors of higher pre‐coital behaviors were age, sexual refusal self‐efficacy, having boyfriends/girlfriends, authoritarian parenting style, parental approval of sex, and perceived peer norms. Pre‐coital behaviors were positively correlated with sexual behaviors, and significant predictors of sexual behaviors were age, parent–adolescent communication, parental monitoring, perceived peer norms, and type of school. To better address the sexual risk behaviors of adolescents, we need to include key stakeholders to develop multi‐modal culturally‐ and gender‐specific sexual‐prevention programs to account for information delivery, acceptability, and dealing with peer pressure.
The influence of delayed admission to intensive care unit on mortality and nursing workload: a cohort study
Authors: Oliveira Ester Góes , Garcia Paulo Carlos , Citolino Filho Clairton Marcos , de Souza Nogueira Lilia
Published: November 2018

Background

The results of studies regarding the relationship between length of stay of patients in emergency departments (EDs) and mortality in intensive care units (ICUs) are contradictory, and nothing is known about the impact of delayed admission of patients to ICUs on nursing workload.

Aims and Objectives

To assess the influence of the time lapse between ED and ICU admissions on mortality and nursing workload in relation to intensive care patients.

Design

This was a retrospective cohort study that examined the medical records of patients who were 15 years of age or older and admitted directly to the ICU from the ED.

Methods

The data were collected between 2014 and 2016 in a hospital located in São Paulo, Brazil. Nursing workload was measured by the Nursing Activities Score. Multiple linear and logistic regressions were applied, with a significance level of 5%.

Results

Of the 534 patients analysed, the majority were men (57·49%); the mean age was 55·37 ± 19·64 years. Length of stay in the ED was not associated with nursing workload at the time of admission of patients to the ICU or during their stay in the unit. For mortality, this variable was a risk factor along with cause of admission, length of stay in the ICU and the Simplified Acute Physiology Score 3 score. For every additional hour that patients remained in the ED, their chance of dying in the ICU increased by 1%.

Conclusion

Length of stay of patients in the ED was a risk factor for mortality in the ICU; however, this variable did not have any influence on nursing workload.

Relevance to clinical practice

Strategies need to be implemented to optimize the availability of ICU beds and reduce the length of stay of critical patients in the ED as delays in admitting such patients to the ICU have an impact on mortality.
Volatile compounds other than CO2 emitted by different microorganisms promote distinct posttranscriptionally regulated responses in plants
Authors: García‐Gómez Pablo , Almagro Goizeder , Sánchez‐López Ángela María , Bahaji Abdellatif , Ameztoy Kinia , Ricarte‐Bermejo Adriana , Baslam Marouane , Antolín María Carmen , Urdiain Amadeo , López‐Belchi María Dolores , López‐Gómez Pedro , Morán José Fernando , Garrido Julián , Muñoz Francisco José , Baroja‐Fernández Edurne , Pozueta‐Romero Javier
Published: November 2018

A “box‐in‐box” cocultivation system was used to investigate plant responses to microbial volatile compounds (VCs) and to evaluate the contributions of organic and inorganic VCs (VOCs and VICs, respectively) to these responses. Arabidopsis plants were exposed to VCs emitted by adjacent Alternaria alternata and Penicillium aurantiogriseum cultures, with and without charcoal filtration. No VOCs were detected in the headspace of growth chambers containing fungal cultures with charcoal filters. However, these growth chambers exhibited elevated CO2 and bioactive CO and NO headspace concentrations. Independently of charcoal filtration, VCs from both fungal phytopathogens promoted growth and distinct developmental changes. Plants cultured at CO2 levels observed in growth boxes containing fungal cultures were identical to those cultured at ambient CO2. Plants exposed to charcoal‐filtered fungal VCs, nonfiltered VCs, or superelevated CO2 levels exhibited transcriptional changes resembling those induced by increased irradiance. Thus, in the “box‐in‐box” system, (a) fungal VICs other than CO2 and/or VOCs not detected by our analytical systems strongly influence the plants' responses to fungal VCs, (b) different microorganisms release VCs with distinct action potentials, (c) transcriptional changes in VC‐exposed plants are mainly due to enhanced photosynthesis signaling, and (d) regulation of some plant responses to fungal VCs is primarily posttranscriptional.
Tuning Photoinduced Electron Transfer Efficiency of Fluorogenic BODIPY‐α‐Tocopherol Analogues
Authors: Greene Lana E. , Lincoln Richard , Cosa Gonzalo
Published: November 2018

Fluorogenic analogues of α‐tocopherol developed by our group have been instrumental in monitoring reactive oxygen species (ROS) within lipid membranes. Prepared as two‐segment trap‐reporter (chromanol‐BODIPY) probes, photoinduced electron transfer (PeT) was utilized to provide these probes with an off/on switch mechanism warranting the necessary sensitivity. Herein, we rationalize within the context of Marcus theory of electron transfer how substituents on the BODIPY core and linker length joining the trap and reporter segments, tune PeT efficiency. DFT and electrochemical studies were used to estimate the thermodynamic driving force of PeT in our constructs. By tuning the redox potential over a 400 mV range, we observed over an order of magnitude increase in PeT efficiency. Increasing the linker length between the chromanol and BODIPY by 2.8 angstroms, in turn, decreased PeT efficiency 2.7‐fold. Our results illustrate how substituent and linker choice enable “darkening” the off state of fluorogenic probes based on BODIPY fluorophores, by favoring PeT over radiative emission from the singlet excited state manifold. Ultimately, our work brings light to the sensitivity ceiling one may achieve in developing fluorogenic antioxidant analogues of α‐tocopherol. The work provides general guidelines applicable to those developing fluorogenic probes based on PeT.
Governance through global networks and corporate signaling
Authors: Perez Oren , Cohen Reuven , Schreiber Nir
Published: November 2018

This article exposes a new form of global governance based on an emergent network of corporate social responsibility (CSR) schemes. Our study is the first to uncover the network structure of this system, based on a dataset that includes 61 transnational CSR schemes and 31,987 firms. We demonstrate that the network exhibits a significant level of cohesiveness, despite having evolved without any form of hierarchical control. Drawing on a social network analysis, we find a positive correlation among the sustainability performance of the firms, their membership in CSR schemes, and their network characteristics. We show that membership in multiple schemes and the firms’ position in the CSR‐schemes network constitute credible predictors of their sustainability performance, generating a separating equilibrium that distinguishes high from low CSR performers. We develop a model that explains the effectiveness of the CSR‐schemes network based on the synergistic properties of the network and on a distinctive signaling dynamic. Our findings highlight the potential contribution of CSR to the resolution of global governance dilemmas.
The joint contribution of physical activity, insomnia symptoms, and smoking to the cost of short‐term sickness absence
Authors: Kanerva Noora , Lallukka Tea , Rahkonen Ossi , Pietiläinen Olli , Lahti Jouni
Published: November 2018

Physical inactivity has been associated with both insomnia symptoms and smoking. Further, they are all independently associated with increased sickness absence (SA) from work. However, joint contribution of either physical activity (PA) with insomnia symptoms or with smoking to SA and, especially, their direct cost for the employer is poorly understood. Therefore, we aimed to examine these joint associations with short‐term (<15 days) SA cost. The Helsinki Health Study is a cohort of midlife employees of the City of Helsinki, Finland (baseline n = 8960, response rate 67%). During 2000‐2002, the participants were mailed a survey questionnaire that gathered information on health behavior and sociodemographic characteristics. SA, salary, and time of employment were followed up through the employer's personnel register between 2002 and 2016 for those with a written consent to the use of their register data (78% of the participants). Individual salary data were used to calculate the direct cost of short‐term SA. Data were analyzed with a two‐part model. Inactive participants with frequent insomnia symptoms had 2526€ (95% CI 1736€‐3915€) higher cost of short‐term SA than vigorously active participants without insomnia symptoms. Furthermore, inactive smokers had 4166€ (95% CI 2737€‐5595€) higher cost for the employer over the follow‐up than vigorously active non‐smokers. In conclusion, this study showed that PA and insomnia symptoms as well as PA and smoking are jointly associated with short‐term SA cost. The results emphasize encouraging employers to improve work environments so that they promote active lifestyle, good sleep, and non‐smoking in order to reduce the cost of SA.
The effect of two exercise modalities on skeletal muscle capillary ultrastructure in individuals with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Mortensen Stefan Peter , Winding Kamilla Munch , Iepsen Ulrik Winning , Munch Gregers Winding , Marcussen Niels , Hellsten Ylva , Pedersen Bente Klarlund , Baum Oliver
Published: November 2018

Type 2 diabetes is associated with microvascular dysfunction, but little is known about how capillary ultrastructure is affected by exercise training. To investigate the effect of two types of exercise training on skeletal muscle capillary ultrastructure and capillarization in individuals with type 2 diabetes, 21 individuals with type 2 diabetes were allocated (randomized controlled trial) to 11 weeks of aerobic exercise training consisting of either moderate‐intensity endurance training (END; n = 10) or low‐volume high‐intensity interval training (HIIT; n = 11). Skeletal muscle biopsies (m vastus lateralis) were obtained before and after the training intervention. At baseline, there was no difference in capillarization, capillary structure, and exercise hyperemia between the two groups. After the training intervention, capillary‐to‐fiber ratio increased by 8% ± 3% in the END group (P < 0.05) and was unchanged in the HIIT group with no difference between groups. Endothelium thickness increased (P < 0.05), basement membrane thickness decreased (P < 0.05), and the capillary lumen tended (P = 0.07) to increase in the END group, whereas these structural indicators were unchanged after HIIT. In contrast, skeletal muscle endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) increased after HIIT (P < 0.05), but not END, whereas there was no change in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), superoxide dismutase (SOD)‐2, or NADPH oxidase after both training protocols. In contrast to END training, HIIT did not alter capillarization or capillary structure in individuals with type 2 diabetes. In conclusion, HIIT appears to be a less effective strategy to treat capillary rarefaction and reduce basement thickening in type 2 diabetes.
How Do State‐Level Environmental Policies Impact the Voting Behavior of National Legislators?*
Authors: Brunell Thomas L. , Cease Brett
Published: November 2018

Objective

We investigate whether state‐level policy adoption of environmental regulations leads to nationalization of similar policies and, if so, the mechanisms by which members of Congress are incentivized to vote strategically.

Method

We examine several key environmental policies (i.e., renewable portfolio standards and regional cap‐and‐trade agreements) and utilize historical state‐level inventories and congressional roll‐call votes in our analysis.

Results

We demonstrate that Democratic and Republican members of the U.S. House in both scenarios were much more likely—even after controlling for ideology and constituency preferences—to vote in favor of increasing environmental regulations if their home state already put such a policy in place.

Conclusion

In a new political era where federalism within environmental policy is being reimagined, the lessons learned from the Waxman‐Markey cap and trade bill and the Udall RPS Amendment teach us of the importance of state‐level initiatives serving as powerful drivers for increasing pressure for federal adoption.
Prevalence and characteristics of hepatitis E virus infection in kidney transplant recipients: A single‐center experience in Japan
Authors: Nanmoku Koji , Owada Yohei , Oshiro Yukio , Kurosawa Akira , Kubo Taro , Shinzato Takahiro , Shimizu Toshihiro , Kimura Takaaki , Sakuma Yasunaru , Ishikawa Nobuo , Ohkohchi Nobuhiro , Okamoto Hiroaki , Yagisawa Takashi
Published: November 2018

Background

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection can lead to chronic hepatitis in solid organ transplant recipients. To investigate whether HEV infection influences outcomes following kidney transplantation, we examined the prevalence of HEV infection and clinical characteristics of kidney transplant recipients in our hospital.

Methods

Our cross‐sectional study included 184 kidney transplant recipients. Blood samples were obtained from all patients to detect anti‐HEV immunoglobulin (Ig)A, IgM, and IgG by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and HEV RNA by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Clinical data were collected from medical charts for all patients.

Results

The prevalence of anti‐HEV IgG was 8/184 (4.3%). Anti‐HEV IgA, anti‐HEV IgM, and HEV RNA were not detected in any patients. Compared to their anti‐HEV IgG‐negative counterparts, anti‐HEV IgG‐positive patients were significantly older at the time of transplantation, and they were more likely to receive kidneys from deceased donors. No significant differences in other characteristics such as the prevalence of primary cause of end‐stage renal disease, blood transfusion, and immunosuppressive therapy use; liver and renal function; and the frequencies of hepatitis B and hepatitis C virus infection were observed according to the patients' anti‐HEV IgG status.

Conclusion

HEV infection had no significant influence on the outcomes of kidney transplantation at our institution. However, HEV infection should be recognized in kidney transplant recipients similarly as hepatitis B and hepatitis C virus infection in cases of liver dysfunction.
Multi‐tissue integration of transcriptomic and specialized metabolite profiling provides tools for assessing the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) metabolome
Authors: Perez de Souza Leonardo , Scossa Federico , Proost Sebastian , Bitocchi Elena , Papa Roberto , Tohge Takayuki , Fernie Alisdair R.
Published: November 2018

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is an important legume species with a rich natural diversity of landraces that originated from the wild forms following multiple independent domestication events. After the publication of its genome, several resources for this relevant crop have been made available. A comprehensive characterization of specialized metabolism in P. vulgaris, however, is still lacking. In this study, we used a metabolomics approach based on liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry to dissect the chemical composition at a tissue‐specific level in several accessions of common bean belonging to different gene pools. Using a combination of literature search, mass spectral interpretation, 13C‐labeling, and correlation analyses, we were able to assign chemical classes and/or putative structures for approximately 39% of all measured metabolites. Additionally, we integrated this information with transcriptomics data and phylogenetic inference from multiple legume species to reconstruct the possible metabolic pathways and identify sets of candidate genes involved in the biosynthesis of specialized metabolites. A particular focus was given to flavonoids, triterpenoid saponins and hydroxycinnamates, as they represent metabolites involved in important ecological interactions and they are also associated with several health‐promoting benefits when integrated into the human diet. The data are presented here in the form of an accessible resource that we hope will set grounds for further studies on specialized metabolism in legumes.
Characterization of the mRNA untranslated regions [UTR] of the Trypanosoma cruzi LYT1 isoforms derived by alternative trans-splicing
Authors: Ruiz Elizabeth , Ramírez César Augusto , Casas Julián Camilo , Ospina María Isabel , Requena José María , Puerta Concepción Judith
Published: November 2018

In trypanosomatids, gene expression is mainly regulated at posttranscriptional level, through mechanisms based on the interaction between RNA Binding Proteins [RBPs] and motifs present in the untranslated regions [UTRs] of them RNAs, which altogether form ribonucleoproteic complexes [RNP] that define the fate of the mRNA. The pre-mRNA derived from the LYT1 gene of Trypanosoma cruzi, is processed by alternative trans-splicing, resulting in different mRNAs which code for the isoforms mLYT1 and kLYT1, proteins having differential expression, cellular location and function. The aim of this study was to characterize the 5’ and 3’ UTRs of the LYT1 mRNAs as the initial step towards the objective of identification of the RBPs responsible for their differential expression. The presence of the two types of 5’ UTRs were confirmed in two T. cruzi isolates belonging to the DTU I, thus, corroborating the occurrence of alternative trans-splicing also in the LYT1 gene of this T.cruzi DTU. In addition, for the first time, was unscovered the existence of two types of LYT1 mRNAs transcripts, differing in length by 116 nts, that are generated by alternative polyadenylation. Furthermore, an in-silico analysis of the experimentally obtained UTRs, and ten additional LYT1 sequences retrieved from TritrypDB and GenBank databases, together with a thoroughly search of structural motifs, showed a remarkable conservation of relevant structural motifs previously associated with RNA metabolism in the different UTRs; these elements might be involved in the differential stage-specific expression of each LYT1 isoform.
How Children Form and Update Beliefs from an Evidence Series
Authors: Schlottmann Anne
Published: November 2018

Our attitudes/beliefs typically develop gradually, with information appearing over time. This study considered how 6- and 9-year-olds (N = 80) form beliefs from serial information, and how information order affects this, in parallel social and physical judgment tasks. Children updated their beliefs continuously, after each bit of information, or gave one judgment at the end of the series. Updating results showed strong, short-term recency effects; stable beliefs, reflecting all informers, developed as well. These stable beliefs were weaker for younger children; the recency was stronger. Both ages used a running average strategy when serially updating judgments, but a memory-based approach when responding only at the end. The latter produced no recency or age differences and led to stronger beliefs. It is concluded that children use the same serial judgment strategies as adults. Process parameters, e.g., recency weights, change with development/information complexity, but even young children form serial beliefs effectively.
Confirmatory Study of the Multidimensional Scales of Perceived Self-Efficacy with Children
Authors: Martins Oliveira Iris , Taveira Maria do Céu , Porfeli Erik J. , Grace Randolph C.
Published: November 2018

The social cognitive career theory suggests that the development of career self-efficacy expectations begins during the childhood period. The Multidimensional Scales of Perceived Self-Efficacy (MSPSE) has been used to assess adolescents and adults’ career self-efficacy. This study extends this research by assessing the psychometric characteristics of the MSPSE with children. The MSPSE factorial structure, invariance, and concurrent validity were examined with data from 313 fifth- and sixth-grade girls and boys (M age = 10.8). Confirmatory factor analyses suggested a good fit of a hierarchical measurement model. Multi-group analyses suggested configurational and metric invariance across grade levels and across gender for the low-order factors. Still, variability in high-order factor loadings was found across gender. The MSPSE was positively correlated with career exploration and academic achievement. This study supports the use of the MSPSE with children, instills future research on children’s career self-efficacy, and advances practices promoting career preparedness.
Desarrollo de la inteligencia emocional en la primera infancia: una guía para la intervención
Authors: Guil Rocio , Mestre Jose Miguel , Gil-Olarte Paloma , G. de la Torre Gabriel , Zayas Antonio
Published: November 2018

En este trabajo presentamos una guía para elaborar programas específicos destinados a desarrollar la inteligencia emocional (en adelante IE) en infantes de 0 a 3 años por considerar que, antes de aplicar programas para edades superiores, resulta fundamental entender cómo se han realizado los aprendizajes previos. El estudio se fundamenta en tres cuerpos teóricos primordiales: la teoría de las etapas del desarrollo infantil temprano del teórico francés Henri Wallon, quien se esforzó por describir el desarrollo emocional del bebé y el papel de las emociones en el establecimiento de relaciones y vínculos con el mundo exterior; el modelo de IE de Mayer y Salovey (2007) y los principios formulados por Carroll Izard sobre intervenciones preventivas centradas en la emoción (Izard, 2002).
Propiedades psicométricas del Cuestionario de Adicción a Internet y a los Videojuegos para Adolescentes
Authors: Chahín Pinzón Nicolás , Briñez Blanca Libia
Published: November 2018

El propósito del presente estudio fue desarrollar un instrumento que evalúe en adolescentes la adicción a internet y a los videojuegos. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 354 adolescentes (M = 13.75, DE = 1.89). El análisis factorial confirmatorio mostró índices de ajuste aceptables (CFI = 0.918, IFI = 0.922, NFI = 0.883, RMSEA = 0.059), el alfa Cronbach fue de 0.73. De acuerdo a los resultados, el instrumento es fiable y válido para evaluar la adicción a internet y adicción a los videojuegos en adolescentes.
Mistuning Evaluation Comparison Via As-Manufactured Models, Traveling Wave Excitation, and Compressor Rigs
Authors: Gillaugh Daniel L. , Kaszynski Alexander A. , Brown Jeffrey M. , Beck Joseph A. , Slater Joseph C.
Published: November 2018

As-manufactured rotors behave quite differently than nominal as-designed rotors due to small geometric and material property deviations in the rotor, referred to as mistuning. The mistuning of a 20 bladed, integrally bladed rotor (IBR) will be evaluated via analytical methods, benchtop testing, and using a rotating compressor research facility. Analytical methods consist of the development of an as-manufactured model based on geometry measurements from a high fidelity optical scanning system. Benchtop testing of the IBR is done using a traveling wave excitation (TWE) system that simulates engine order excitation in stationary bladed disks for the purpose of determining potentially high responding blades due to mistuning. The compressor research facility utilizes blade tip timing to measure the blade vibration of the IBR. The resonant response of the IBR at various modes and harmonic excitations is investigated. A comprehensive mistuning and force amplification comparison between the as-manufactured model, TWE, and the compressor rig is performed. Mistuning of each method is evaluated using three different methods. First, the tuned absorber factor (TAF), which is a metric to determine potential high responding blades, is determined for each system. Next, mistuning is analyzed by isolating individual blades both experimentally on the bench and analytically to determine the mistuning patterns. Lastly, the mistuning determined by each system will be evaluated using a reduced-order model, namely the fundamental mistuning model identification (FMM ID). It will be shown that TAF shows variability between each method providing indications TAF may not be the best approach of force amplification predictions. Basic mistuning agreements exist when isolating blades both experimentally and analytically exhibiting as-manufactured models are capable of representing full experiments. System ID methods provide a basic agreement between both the mistuning pattern and the mistuning amplification for all three methods analyzed. This ultimately shows the importance and the ability to use as-manufactured models to help increase detailed understanding of IBR's.
Large Eddy Simulation of Scalar Mixing in Jet in a Cross-Flow
Authors: Uyanwaththa Asela , Malalasekera Weeratunge. , Hargrave Graham , Dubal Mark
Published: November 2018

Jet in a cross-flow (JICF) is a flow arrangement found in many engineering applications, especially in gas turbine air–fuel mixing. Understanding of scalar mixing in JICF is important for low NOx burner design and operation, and numerical simulation techniques can be used to understand both spatial and temporal variation of air–fuel mixing quality in such applications. In this paper, mixing of the jet stream with the cross-flow is simulated by approximating the jet flow as a passive scalar and using the large eddy simulation (LES) technique to simulate the turbulent velocity field. A posteriori test is conducted to assess three dynamic subgrid scale models in modeling jet and cross-flow interaction with the boundary layer flow field. Simulated mean and Reynolds stress component values for velocity field and concentration fields are compared against experimental data to assess the capability of the LES technique, which showed good agreement between numerical and experimental results. Similarly, time mean and standard deviation values of passive scalar concentration also showed good agreement with experimental data. In addition, LES results are further used to discuss the scalar mixing field in the downstream mixing region.
Experimental Investigation of the Swirl Development at the Inlet of a Coaxial Rotating Diffuser or Nozzle
Authors: Cloos Ferdinand-J. , Pelz Peter F.
Published: November 2018

When a fluid enters a rotating pipe, a swirl boundary layer with thickness of δ̃S appears at the wall and interacts with the axial momentum boundary layer with thickness of δ̃. The swirl is produced by the wall shear stress and not due to kinematic reasons as by a turbomachine. In the center of the pipe, the fluid is swirl-free and is accelerated due to axial boundary layer growth. Below a critical flow number φ < φc, there is flow separation, known in the turbomachinery context as part load recirculation. The previous work analyzes the flow at the inlet of a coaxial rotating circular pipe (R̃=R̃0). For a systematic approach to a turbomachine, the influence of the turbine's and pump's function, schematically fulfilled by a diffuser and a nozzle, on the evolution of the swirl and flow separation is to analyze. The radius of the rotating pipe depends linearly on the axial coordinate, yielding a rotating circular diffuser or nozzle. The swirl evolution depends on the Reynolds number, flow number, axial coordinate, and apex angle. The influence of the latter is the paper's main task. The circumferential velocity component is measured applying one-dimensional laser Doppler anemometry (LDA) to investigate the swirl evolution.
A synaptic theory of internal delays
Authors: van der Heijden Marcel
Published: November 2018

Neurons in the medial superior olive perform a coincidence analysis between inputs from the two ears, as predicted by Jeffress [J. Comp. Psychol. 41, 35–39 (1948)]. Jeffress also correctly predicted inputs to express a range of internal delays for which he invoked axonal delay lines. These, however, cannot explain that the inputs of many binaural neurons differ by a combination of a time delay and a phase shift. This study proposes an alternative source of internal delay. An interaural asymmetry in the activation threshold of the inner hair cell synapses is shown to reproduce the main features of internal delays of binaural neurons.
Emergence of Resistance to Quinolones and β-Lactam Antibiotics in Enteroaggregative and Enterotoxigenic
Escherichia coli
Causing Traveler’s Diarrhea
Authors: Guiral Elisabet , Gonçalves Quiles Milene , Muñoz Laura , Moreno-Morales Javier , Alejo-Cancho Izaskun , Salvador Pilar , Alvarez-Martinez Miriam J. , Marco Francesc , Vila Jordi
Published: November 2018

The objective of this study was to assess the antimicrobial resistance of enteroaggregative
Escherichia coli
(EAEC) and enterotoxigenic
E. coli
(ETEC) strains causing traveler’s diarrhea (TD) and to investigate the molecular characterization of antimicrobial resistance genes to third-generation cephalosporins, cephamycins, and quinolones. Overall, 39 EAEC and 43 ETEC clinical isolates were studied.