bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human microcephaly ASPM protein is a spindle pole-focusing factor that functions redundantly with CDK5RAP2
Authors: Tungadi Elsa A. , Ito Ami , Kiyomitsu Tomomi , Goshima Gohta
Published: January 2017

Nonsense mutations in theASPMgene have been most frequently identified among familial microcephaly patients. Depletion of theDrosophilaorthologue causes spindle pole unfocusing during mitosis in multiple cell types. However, it remains unknown whether human ASPM has a similar function. Here, using CRISPR-based gene knockout (KO) and RNA interference combined with auxin-inducible degron, we show that ASPM functions in spindle pole organisation during mitotic metaphase redundantly with another microcephaly protein CDK5RAP2 (also called CEP215) in human tissue culture cells. Deletion of theASPMgene alone did not affect spindle morphology or mitotic progression. However, when the pericentriolar material protein CDK5RAP2 was depleted inASPMKO cells, spindle poles were unfocused during prometaphase and anaphase onset was significantly delayed. The phenotypic analysis of CDK5RAP2-depleted cells suggested that the pole-focusing function of CDK5RAP2 is independent of its known function to localise the kinesin-14 motor HSET or activate theγ-tubulin complex. Finally, a hypomorphic mutation identified in ASPM microcephaly patients similarly caused spindle pole unfocusing in the absence of CDK5RAP2, suggesting a possible link between spindle pole disorganisation and microcephaly.
Challenges for Bayesian Model Selection of Dynamic Causal Models
Authors: van den Honert Rebecca N. , Shultz Sarah , Johnson Marcia K. , McCarthy Gregory
Published: January 2017

Achieving a mechanistic explanation of brain function requires understanding causal relationships among regions. A relatively new technique to assess effective connectivity in fMRI data is Dynamic Causal Modeling (DCM). As DCM is more frequently used, it becomes increasingly important to further validate the technique and understand its limitations. With DCM, Bayesian Model Selection (BMS) is used to select the most likely causal model. We conducted simulations to test the degree to which BMS is robust to two types of challenges when applied to DCMs, those inherent to data (Category 1) and those inherent to model space (Category 2).Category 1challenges tested properties of the data (low signal-to-noise, different response magnitudes and shapes across regions) that could either blur the distinction between models or potentially bias model selection. These challenges are impossible or difficult to measure and control in real data, so investigating their effect upon BMS through simulation is critical.Category 2challenges tested properties of model space that create subsets of confusable models. Our results suggest that given data that conform to the prior assumptions of DCM, BMS is robust to challenges fromCategory 1. However, in the face ofCategory 2challenges (when a more homogenous model space was tested) the false positive rate rose above an acceptable level. We show that such errors are neither trivial nor easily avoided with existing approaches. However, we argue that it is possible to detectCategory 2challenges, and avoid inappropriate interpretations by conducting simulations prior to applying DCM.

Acronyms

DCM

Dynamic Causal Modeling

BMS

Bayesian Model Selection

fMRI

functional magnetic resonance imaging

BOLD

blood oxygen level dependent

FMC

Family Model Comparison

HRF

hemodynamic response function

ROI

region of interest

SNR

signal to noise ratio

R1

region 1

R2

region 2

U1

input 1
A genetic basis for molecular asymmetry at vertebrate electrical synapses
Authors: Miller Adam C , Whitebirch Alex C , Shah Arish N , Marsden Kurt C , Granato Michael , O’Brien John , Moens Cecilia B
Published: January 2017

Neural network function is based upon the patterns and types of connections made between neurons. Neuronal synapses are adhesions specialized for communication and they come in two types, chemical and electrical. Communication at chemical synapses occurs via neurotransmitter release whereas electrical synapses utilize gap junctions for direct ionic and metabolic coupling. Electrical synapses are often viewed as symmetrical structures, with the same components making both sides of the gap junction. By contrast, we show that a broad set of electrical synapses in zebrafish,Danio rerio, require two gap-junction-forming Connexins for formation and function. We find that one Connexin functions presynaptically while the other functions postsynaptically in forming the channels. We also show that these synapses are required for the speed and coordination of escape responses. Our data identify a genetic basis for molecular asymmetry at vertebrate electrical synapses and show they are required for appropriate behavioral performance.
Crystallographic features of ammonium fluoroelpasolites: dynamic orientational disorder in crystals of (NH4)3HfF7 and (NH4)3Ti(O2)F5
Authors: Udovenko Anatoly A. , Karabtsov Alexander A. , Laptash Natalia M.
Published: January 2017

A classical elpasolite-type structure is considered with respect to dynamically disordered ammonium fluoro-(oxofluoro-)metallates. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction data from high quality (NH4)3HfF7 and (NH4)3Ti(O2)F5 samples enabled the refinement of the ligand and cationic positions in the cubic Fm \bar 3 m (Z = 4) structure. Electron-density atomic profiles show that the ligand atoms are distributed in a mixed (split) position instead of 24e. One of the ammonium groups is disordered near 8c so that its central atom (N1) forms a tetrahedron with vertexes in 32f. However, a center of another group (N2) remains in the 4b site, whereas its H atoms (H2) occupy the 96k positions instead of 24e and, together with the H3 atom in the 32f position, they form eight spatial orientations of the ammonium group. It is a common feature of all ammonium fluoroelpasolites with orientational disorder of structural units of a dynamic nature.
A priori checking of the light-response and data quality before extended data collection in pump–probe photocrystallography experiments
Authors: Coppens Philip , Makal Anna , Fournier Bertrand , Jarzembska Katarzyna N. , Kamiński Radosław , Basuroy Krishnayan , Trzop Elzbieta
Published: January 2017

In picosecond and slower pump–probe diffraction experiments, collection of response–ratio correlation sets prior to full data collection provides an invaluable confirmation of the existence of a light-induced signal prior to full data collection. If a response to light exposure is observed, the quality of the data being collected can be assessed. A number of such correlation plots both for synchrotron and in-house pump–probe data collection are presented.
Niyogi books: making a difference in the Indian book publishing industry
Authors: De Niyogi Trisha , Chaurasia Sushil S.
Published: January 2017

Subject area

Marketing strategy.

Study level/applicability

The course is well suited for MBA and Executive MBA class on Strategic Management, Marketing Strategy, Brand Management, Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Change in emerging economies. The case can also be taught to senior undergraduate students to explore the issues mentioned in the case as an integrative case for courses like Strategic Management and Marketing Strategy.

Case overview

Niyogi Books had positioned itself as an independent publishing house with a focus on the niche area of trade books. Due to the internet, digitalization and globalization the dynamics of the book publishing industry had changed considerably, and the company needed to think and reflect on its current position and future strategy. Niyogi Books had added new products and new markets along with other innovations to succeed in the business of publishing. But the way ahead for Niyogi Books was to innovate in light of fast-paced technological advancement. The company needed to balance the digitization of content as well as retailing with its existing print strategy. A related issue is the need to plan an innovative and cost-effective communication strategy to boost sales.

Expected learning outcomes

The learning outcomes are as follows: analyze the business environment of the publishing industry, realize the need for a branding strategy for small business and apply communication strategies single/multi-channel setting, understand the need of an organization to purposefully adapt an organization’s (self-) resource base (management capability to effectively coordinate and redeploy internal and external competences) and analyze the role of a growth strategy and how it can be used to devise a product/marketing strategy.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject code

CSS 11: Strategy.
Exploring seismic inversion methodologies for non‐stationary geological environments: a benchmark study between deterministic and geostatistical seismic inversion
Authors: Carmo Sérgio , Azevedo Leonardo , Soares Amílcar
Published: January 2017

This paper presents a comparison between subsurface impedance models derived from different deterministic and geostatistical seismic inversion methodologies applied to a challenging synthetic dataset. Geostatistical seismic inversion methodologies nowadays are common place in both industry and academia, contrasting with traditional deterministic seismic inversion methodologies that are becoming less used as part of the geo‐modelling workflow. While the first set of techniques allows the simultaneous inference of the best‐fit inverse model along with the spatial uncertainty of the subsurface elastic property of interest, the second family of inverse methodology has proven results in correctly predicting the subsurface elastic properties of interest with comparatively less computational cost. We present herein the results of a benchmark study performed over a realistic three‐dimensional non‐stationary synthetic dataset in order to assess the performance and convergence of different deterministic and geostatistical seismic inverse methodologies. We also compare and discuss the impact of the inversion parameterisation over the exploration of the model parameter space. The results show that the chosen seismic inversion methodology should always be dependent on the type and quantity of the available data, both seismic and well‐log, and the complexity of the geological environment versus the assumptions behind each inversion technique. The assessment of the model parameter space shows that the initial guess of traditional deterministic seismic inversion methodologies is of high importance since it will determine the location of the best‐fit inverse solution.
Saddle Pulmonary Embolism with Paradoxical Coronary Artery Embolism through a Patent Foramen Ovale
Authors: Achesinski Amber L. , Gunther Wendy M. , Pearman Catherine B.
Published: January 2017

A 35‐year‐old male patient was found in cardiac arrest in his vehicle, with no apparent injuries after a minor motor vehicle collision. The decedent was found to have a saddle pulmonary embolus with a thromboembolus impacted across a patent foramen ovale and a paradoxical embolism in the circumflex coronary artery, as well as significant clotting in the deep veins of both lower extremities. There were no risk factors in his history to explain the deep venous thrombosis; family history suggested the possibility of an unrecognized clotting disorder.
Immobilization of Clostridium acetobutylicum onto natural textiles and its fermentation properties
Authors: Zhuang Wei , Liu Xiaojing , Yang Jing , Wu Jinglan , Zhou Jingwei , Chen Yong , Liu Dong , Ying Hanjie
Published: January 2017

Immobilized fermentation has several advantages over traditional suspended fermentation, including simple and continuous operation, improved fermentation performance and reduced cost. Carrier is the most adjustable element among three elements of immobilized fermentation, including carrier, bacteria and environment. In this study, we characterized carrier roughness and surface properties of four types of natural fibres, including linen, cotton, bamboo fibre and silk, to assess their effects on cell immobilization, fermentation performance and stability. Linen with higher specific surface area and roughness could adsorb more bacteria during immobilized fermentation, thereby improving fermentation performance; thus, linen was selected as a suitable carrier and was applied for acetone–butanol–ethanol (ABE) fermentation. To further improve fermentation performance, we also found that microbes of Clostridium acetobutylicum were negatively charged surfaces during fermentation. Therefore, we then modified linen with polyetherimide (PEI) and steric acid (SA) to increase surface positive charge and improve surface property. During ABE fermentation, the adhesion between modified linen and bacteria was increased, adsorption was increased about twofold compared with that of unmodified linen, and butanol productivity was increased 8.16% and 6.80% with PEI‐ and SA‐modified linen as carriers respectively.
Statistical test for tolerability of effects of an antifungal biocontrol strain on fungal communities in three arable soils
Authors: Antweiler Kai , Schreiter Susanne , Keilwagen Jens , Baldrian Petr , Kropf Siegfried , Smalla Kornelia , Grosch Rita , Heuer Holger
Published: January 2017

A statistical method was developed to test for equivalence of microbial communities analysed by next‐generation sequencing of amplicons. The test uses Bray–Curtis distances between the microbial community structures and is based on a two‐sample jackknife procedure. This approach was applied to investigate putative effects of the antifungal biocontrol strain RU47 on fungal communities in three arable soils which were analysed by high‐throughput ITS amplicon sequencing. Two contrasting workflows to produce abundance tables of operational taxonomic units from sequence data were applied. For both, the developed test indicated highly significant equivalence of the fungal communities with or without previous exposure to RU47 for all soil types, with reference to fungal community differences in conjunction with field site or cropping history. However, minor effects of RU47 on fungal communities were statistically significant using highly sensitive multivariate tests. Nearly all fungal taxa responding to RU47 increased in relative abundance indicating the absence of ecotoxicological effects. Use of the developed equivalence test is not restricted to evaluate effects on soil microbial communities by inoculants for biocontrol, bioremediation or other purposes, but could also be applied for biosafety assessment of compounds like pesticides, or genetically engineered plants.
Trauma care in a combined rural and urban region: an observational study
Authors: Uleberg O. , Kristiansen T. , Pape K. , Romundstad P. R. , Klepstad P.
Published: January 2017

Background

The available information on trauma care in mixed rural‐urban areas with scattered populations is limited. The aim of this study is to describe epidemiology, resource use, transfers and outcomes for trauma care within such an area, prior to implementation of a formal trauma system.

Methods

A multicentre observational study including potential severely injured patients from June 2007 to May 2010. All patients received by trauma teams at seven acute care hospitals (ACH) and one major trauma centre (MTC) were included. Major trauma was defined as Injury Severity Score (ISS) > 15.

Results

A total of 2323 patients were included. ACH received 1330 patients and delivered definite care to 85% of these. Only 329 (14%) patients were major trauma of which 134 (41%) were initially received at an ACH. Nine per cent of patients were transferred between hospitals. After inter‐hospital transfers, 79% of all major trauma patients received definite care at the MTC. Helicopter emergency services admitted 52% of major trauma and performed 68% of inter‐hospital transfers from ACH to MTC. Forty‐eight patients (2%) died within 30 days.

Conclusion

In a region with a dispersed network of hospitals, geographical challenges, and low rate of major trauma cases, efforts should be made to identify patients with major trauma for treatment at a MTC as early as possible. This can be done by implementing triage and transfer guidelines, maintaining competence at ACHs for initial stabilization, and sustaining an organization for effective inter‐facility transfers.
Anaesthetic‐induced cardioprotection in an experimental model of the Takotsubo syndrome – isoflurane vs. propofol
Authors: Oras J. , Redfors B. , Ali A. , Lundgren J. , Sihlbom C. , Thorsell A. , Seeman‐Lodding H. , Omerovic E. , Ricksten S.‐E.
Published: January 2017

Background

Takotsubo syndrome (TS) is an acute cardiac condition with a substantial mortality for which no specific treatment is available. We have previously shown that isoflurane attenuates the development of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction in an experimental TS‐model. We compared the effects of equi‐anaesthetic doses of isoflurane, propofol and ketamine+midazolam on haemodynamics, global and regional LV systolic function and the activation of intracellular metabolic pathways in experimental TS. We hypothesized that cardioprotection in experimental TS is specific for isoflurane.

Methods

Forty‐five rats were randomized to isoflurane (0.6 MAC, n = 15), propofol (bolus 200 mg/kg+360 mg/kg/h, n = 15) or ketamine (100 mg/kg)+midazolam (10 mg/kg, n = 15) anaesthesia. Arterial pressure, heart rate and body temperature were continuously measured and arterial blood gas analysis was performed intermittently. TS was induced by intraperitoneal injection of isoprenaline, 50 mg/kg. LV echocardiography was performed 90 min after isoprenaline injection. Apical cardiac tissue was analysed by global discovery proteomics and pathway analysis.

Results

Isoprenaline‐induced changes in arterial blood pressure, heart rate or body temperature did not differ between groups. LV ejection fraction was higher and extent of LV akinesia was lower with isoflurane, when compared with the propofol and the ketamine+midazolam groups. In this TS‐model, the proteomic analysis revealed an up‐regulation of pathways involved in inflammation, coagulation, endocytosis and lipid metabolism. This up‐regulation was clearly attenuated with isoflurane compared to propofol.

Conclusion

In an experimental model of TS, isoflurane, but not propofol, exerts a cardioprotective effect. The proteomic analysis suggests that inflammation might be involved in pathogenesis of TS.
Exercise and the multidisciplinary holistic approach to adolescent dysautonomia
Authors: Armstrong KR , De Souza AM , Sneddon PL , Potts JE , Claydon VE , Sanatani S
Published: January 2017

Aim

To determine whether an eight‐week strength training programme as part of a multidisciplinary approach would minimise symptoms and improve quality of life in patients with dysautonomia.

Methods

Adolescents referred to a tertiary‐level cardiology service from May 2014–December 2015 with symptoms of dysautonomia were eligible. Participants completed an exercise test and a quality of life (QoL) questionnaire (PedsQL) prior to the intervention. Participants were asked to complete exercises five times per week. After eight weeks, participants returned for follow‐up testing. Parents completed a proxy report of their child's QoL at both time points.

Results

A total of 17 participants completed the study protocol with an adherence rate of up to 50%. Post‐intervention, QoL scores improved across all levels in the participants [total 65.2 (50.4–74.7) vs 48.9 (37.5–63.0); p = 0.006; psychosocial 65.8 (56.1–74.6) vs 50.0 (41.7–65.8); p = 0.010; physical 62.5 (37.5–76.6) vs 43.8 (25–68.5); p = 0.007] and their parent proxy reports [total 63.5 (48.7–81.3) vs 50.0 (39.3–63.0); p = 0.004; psychosocial 62.1 (52.1–81.3) vs 50.0 (39.6–59.2); p = 0.001; physical 62.5 (51.6–80.0) vs 50.0 (27.5–70.3); p = 0.003]. Treadmill time also improved (9.1 vs 8.0 minutes; p = 0.005).

Conclusion

Following an eight‐week strength training programme, dysautonomia patients report a significant improvement in both their quality of life and endurance time.
Robot‐assisted partial prostatectomy for anterior prostate cancer: a step‐by‐step guide
Authors: Villers Arnauld , Flamand Vincent , Arquímedes Rodríguez‐Carlin , Puech Philippe , Haber Georges‐Pascal , Desai Mihir M. , Crouzet Sebastien , Ouzzane Adil , Gill Inderbir S.
Published: January 2017

Objective

To describe a step‐by‐step guide to robot‐assisted anterior partial prostatectomy (RA‐APP) for isolated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐detected anterior prostate cancer (APC).

Patients and Methods

After Institutional Review Board approval, over an 8‐year period (2008–2015), 17 consenting patients were enrolled in a prospective, single‐arm, single‐centre, Idea, Development, Evaluation, Assessment and Long‐term evaluation of innovative surgery (IDEAL) phase 2a study. The inclusion criteria comprised pre‐urethral, low–intermediate risk APC diagnosed by MRI and targeted biopsies. Patient position and port placement were identical to the transperitoneal RA radical prostatectomy procedure. Three steps of dissection were identified in the following order: (i) retrograde apical, after dorsal venous plexus division, transition zone (TZ) enucleation, and distal peripheral zone (PZ) sectioning; (ii) antegrade, at the bladder neck (BN) after anterior BN sectioning, TZ enucleation up to the verumontanum; and (iii) lateral dissections, including anterolateral PZ sectioning without incision of the endopelvic fascia. We report the incidence of perioperative complications. The RA completion of prostatectomy in four cases with cancer recurrence was performed at 0.3, 2.5, 2 and 2 years, respectively.

Results

The RA‐APP comprised en bloc excision of the anterior part of the prostate comprising of the anterior fibromuscular stroma, BN, prostate adenoma (TZ and median lobe) along with the proximal prostate urethra, PZ apical anterior horns, anterior aspect of the distal (sub‐montanal) urethra, and anterior BN. The posterolateral parts of the PZ and distal (sub‐montanal) urethra and peri‐prostatic tissues were preserved intact. The bladder opening was sutured to the anterior sphincteric urethra wall and PZ lateral edges. The technique was feasible in all cases with no conversion to an open procedure. Perioperative complications were only Clavien–Dindo grade II. RA completion of prostatectomy was feasible in the four cases with cancer recurrence.

Conclusion

PZ prostate‐sparing RA‐APP for isolated APC is feasible and safe, and represents an option for highly selected men with APCs as an alternative to other focal ablative therapy.
Can big data tame a “naughty” world?
Authors: Salmond Jennifer Ann , Tadaki Marc , Dickson Mark
Published: January 2017

Key Messages

The implications of the big data revolution for the environmental sciences are potentially significant and require critical interrogation.

Thematic examination of big data definitions can encourage scientists to consider how big environmental data may alter environmental scientific priorities.

In the environmental sciences, big data are most valuable when complementary to (and conversing with) traditional data and approaches.
In silico approaches and chemical space of anti‐P‐type ATPase compounds for discovering new antituberculous drugs
Authors: Santos Paola , López‐Vallejo Fabian , Soto Carlos‐Y.
Published: January 2017

Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the most important public health problems around the world. The emergence of multi‐drug‐resistant (MDR) and extensively drug‐resistant (XDR) Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains has driven the finding of alternative anti‐TB targets. In this context, P‐type ATPases are interesting therapeutic targets due to their key role in ion homeostasis across the plasma membrane and the mycobacterial survival inside macrophages. In this review, in silico and experimental strategies used for the rational design of new anti‐TB drugs are presented; in addition, the chemical space distribution based on the structure and molecular properties of compounds with anti‐TB and anti‐P‐type ATPase activity is discussed. The chemical space distribution compared to public compound libraries demonstrates that natural product libraries are a source of novel chemical scaffolds with potential anti‐P‐type ATPase activity. Furthermore, compounds that experimentally display anti‐P‐type ATPase activity belong to a chemical space of molecular properties comparable to that occupied by those approved for oral use, suggesting that these kinds of molecules have a good pharmacokinetic profile (drug‐like) for evaluation as potential anti‐TB drugs.
Ureteric complications in recipients of kidneys from donation after circulatory death donors
Authors: Mah Trina‐Jo , Mallon Dermot H. , Brewster Oliver , Saeb‐Parsy Kourosh , Butler Andrew J. , Bradley J. Andrew , Kosmoliaptsis Vasilis
Published: January 2017

A large increase in the use of kidneys from donation after circulatory death (DCD) donors prompted us to examine the impact of donor type on the incidence of ureteric complications (UCs; ureteric stenosis, urinary leak) after kidney transplantation. We studied 1072 consecutive kidney transplants (DCD n=494, live donor [LD] n=273, donation after brain death [DBD] n=305) performed during 2008‐2014. Overall, there was a low incidence of UCs after kidney transplantation (3.5%). Despite a trend toward higher incidence of UCs in DCD (n=22, 4.5%) compared to LD (n=10, 3.7%) and DBD (n=5, 1.6%) kidney transplants, donor type was not a significant risk factor for UCs in multivariate analysis (DCD vs DBD HR: 2.33, 95% CI: 0.77‐7.03, P=.13). There was no association between the incidence of UCs and donor, recipient, or transplant‐related characteristics. Management involved surgical reconstruction in the majority of cases, with restenosis in 2.7% requiring re‐operation. No grafts were lost secondary to UCs. Despite a significant increase in the number of kidney transplants from DCD donors, the incidence of UCs remains low. When ureteric complications do occur, they can be treated successfully with surgical reconstruction with no adverse effect on graft or patient survival.
Soil microbial communities and elk foraging intensity: implications for soil biogeochemical cycling in the sagebrush steppe
Authors: Cline Lauren C. , Zak Donald R. , Upchurch Rima A. , Freedman Zachary B. , Peschel Anna R.
Published: January 2017

Foraging intensity of large herbivores may exert an indirect top‐down ecological force on soil microbial communities via changes in plant litter inputs. We investigated the responses of the soil microbial community to elk (Cervus elaphus) winter range occupancy across a long‐term foraging exclusion experiment in the sagebrush steppe of the North American Rocky Mountains, combining phylogenetic analysis of fungi and bacteria with shotgun metagenomics and extracellular enzyme assays. Winter foraging intensity was associated with reduced bacterial richness and increasingly distinct bacterial communities. Although fungal communities did not respond linearly to foraging intensity, a greater β‐diversity response to winter foraging exclusion was observed. Furthermore, winter foraging exclusion increased soil cellulolytic and hemicellulolytic enzyme potential and higher foraging intensity reduced chitinolytic gene abundance. Thus, future changes in winter range occupancy may shape biogeochemical processes via shifts in microbial communities and subsequent changes to their physiological capacities to cycle soil C and N.
Microscopic and macroscopic infarct complicating pediatric epilepsy surgery
Authors: Rubinger Luc , Hazrati Lili‐Naz , Ahmed Raheel , Rutka James , Snead Carter , Widjaja Elysa
Published: January 2017

Objective

There is some suggestion that microscopic infarct could be associated with invasive monitoring, but it is unclear if the microscopic infarct is also visible on imaging and associated with neurologic deficits. The aims of this study were to assess the rates of microscopic and macroscopic infarct and other major complications of pediatric epilepsy surgery, and to determine if these complications were higher following invasive monitoring.

Methods

We reviewed the epilepsy surgery data from a tertiary pediatric center, and collected data on microscopic infarct on histology and macroscopic infarct on postoperative computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) done one day after surgery and major complications.

Results

Three hundred fifty‐two patients underwent surgical resection and there was one death. Forty‐two percent had invasive monitoring. Thirty patients (9%) had microscopic infarct. Univariable analyses showed that microscopic infarct was higher among patients with invasive monitoring relative to no invasive monitoring (20% vs. 0.5%, respectively, p < 0.001). Eighteen patients (5%) had macroscopic infarct onCTorMRI. Univariable analysis showed no significant difference in macroscopic infarct between invasive monitoring and no invasive monitoring (8% vs. 3%, respectively, p = 0.085). One patient with microscopic infarct had transient right hemiparesis, and two with both macroscopic and microscopic infarct had unexpected persistent neurologic deficits. Thirty‐two major complications (9.1%) were reported, with no difference in major complications between invasive monitoring and no invasive monitoring (10% vs. 7%, p = 0.446). In the multivariable analysis, invasive monitoring increased the odds of microscopic infarct (odds ratio [OR] 15.87, p = 0.009), but not macroscopic infarct (OR2.6, p = 0.173) or major complications (OR1.4, p = 0.500), after adjusting for age at surgery, sex, age at seizure onset, operative type, and operative location.

Significance

Microscopic infarct was associated with invasive monitoring, and none of the patients had permanent neurologic deficits. Macroscopic infarct was not associated with invasive monitoring, and two patients with macroscopic infarct had persistent neurologic deficits.
Severe damage to the placental fetal capillary network causes mid‐ to late fetal lethality and reduction in placental size in Peg11/Rtl1KO mice
Authors: Kitazawa Moe , Tamura Masaru , Kaneko‐Ishino Tomoko , Ishino Fumitoshi
Published: January 2017

Paternally expressed 11/Retrotransposon‐like 1 (Peg11/Rtl1) knockout (KO) mice show mid‐ to late fetal lethality or late fetal growth retardation associated with frequent neonatal lethality. The lethal phenotype is largely dependent on genetic background and becomes more severe with each succeeding generation in the course of backcross experiments to C57BL/6 (B6). We previously suggested that these lethal and growth phenotypes in the fetal stages were due to severe defects in placental fetal capillaries in the labyrinth layer. In this study, we re‐examined KO fetuses and placentas and confirmed that the severe clogging of fetal capillaries was associated with KO fetuses showing mid‐fetal lethality with internal bleeding. Importantly, the basal region of the fetal capillary network was specifically damaged, also leading to poor expansion of the labyrinth layer and placental size reduction in the later stage. An apparent down‐regulation of transmembrane protein 100 (Tmem100), mesenchyme homeobox 2 (Meox2) and lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor 1 (Lyve1) expression were observed in earlier stage placentas even before apparent size reduction became, suggesting that these genes are involved in the maintenance of fetal capillaries associated with Peg11/Rtl1 during development.
Laboratory monitoring of replacement therapy for major surgery in von Willebrand disease
Authors: Mannucci P. M. , Franchini M.
Published: January 2017

Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is an inherited haemorrhagic disorder caused by a quantitative or qualitative defect of von Willebrand factor (VWF), a multimeric plasma glycoprotein that plays a key role in platelet adhesion to the subendothelium and acts as a carrier of factor VIII (FVIII) in blood. Patients with VWD experience bleeding symptoms that are mainly localized in mucous membranes and soft tissues, and their severity depends on the degree of the primary reduction in VWF and the secondary deficiency of FVIII in plasma. Because VWD patients are also at increased risk of perioperative bleeding, a prophylactic treatment aimed to correct the dual haemostatic defect (i.e. VWF and FVIII) is warranted. This review summarizes knowledge on the current management of patients undergoing major surgery, focusing on the peri‐surgical laboratory monitoring of replacement therapy with VWF/FVIII concentrates. We suggest to monitor plasma levels of FVIII coagulant activity in the postoperative period rather than a surrogate maker of platelet‐binding VWF activity as the ristocetin cofactor assay and its recent modifications.
Institutional Monitoring, Political Connections and Audit Fees: Evidence from Malaysian Firms
Authors: Tee Chwee Ming , Gul Ferdinand A. , Foo Yee‐Boon , Teh Chee Ghee
Published: January 2017

This study employs data on Malaysian firms from 2003 to 2011 to show that ownership by institutional investors is positively associated with audit fees, and this positive association is stronger for firms that are politically connected to the Malaysian government. The results of this study are aligned with the theories that institutional investors can play an effective monitoring role by demanding higher audit quality, particularly if their investee firms are politically connected. Additional tests reveal that the main results are largely driven by foreign institutional investors, while it is insignificant for local institutional investors. Therefore, our evidence suggests that institutional investors, particularly foreign institutions, demand increased audit effort (proxied by audit fees) as a method to monitor politically connected firms.
Symptom Management for Bladder Cancer in Thailand
Authors: Vuttanon N , Vichittragoonthavon S , Chaisurin P , Thongchai C
Published: January 2017

Understanding the symptom experiences and management strategies of people with bladder cancer is important for nurses. Awareness of outcomes of the strategies used can enable health care practitioners to provide effective advice to bladder cancer patients. We aimed to examine symptom experiences in patients with each cancer grade; to survey symptom management strategies and outcomes. This study was a cross‐sectional survey design. A total of 62 patients receiving care in a northern Thailand university hospital during December 2011 and June 2012 were recruited as subjects. Participants completed a modified questionnaire based on the framework of the symptom management model. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed: (i) the three most frequent and severe symptoms in the high grade group were frequent urination, constipation and anxiety; in the low grade group were frequent urination, fatigue and anxiety: (ii) the symptom management strategies revealed correspondence in both groups as follows: for frequent urination strategies were consulting a physician, restricting fluids, using herbs and doing nothing; for constipation strategies were taking a laxative, eating tamarind, eating vegetables/high‐fibre fruits and using a suppository; for anxiety strategies were prayer, going to the temple, meditating, talking with family/friends, relaxing, taking up a hobby, resting and consulting a physician; for fatigue strategies were resting, using supplements and consulting a physician: (iii) the outcomes revealed that most of the strategies showed positive outcomes. Positive outcomes could be used as a guide in providing recommendations to patients with bladder cancer and to support further research in this area. Further work is needed to develop interventions that work for specific symptoms.
Risk of secondary osteoporosis due to lobular cholestasis in non‐cirrhotic primary biliary cholangitis
Authors: Seki Anna , Ikeda Fusao , Miyatake Hirokazu , Takaguchi Koichi , Hayashi Shosaku , Osawa Toshiya , Fujioka Shin‐ichi , Tanaka Ryoji , Ando Masaharu , Seki Hiroyuki , Iwasaki Yoshiaki , Yamamoto Kazuhide , Okada Hiroyuki
Published: January 2017

Background and Aim

It remains unclear whether primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) represents a risk factor for secondary osteoporosis.

Methods

A case–control study was conducted to examine bone mineral density and bone turnover markers in middle‐aged postmenopausal PBC patients without liver cirrhosis. We compared the incidence of low bone mineral density between propensity‐score matched subgroups of PBC patients and healthy controls and investigated the mechanisms underlying unbalanced bone turnover in terms of the associations between bone turnover markers and PBC‐specific histological findings.

Result

Our analysis included 128 consecutive PBC patients, all postmenopausal women aged in their 50s or 60s, without liver cirrhosis or fragility fracture at the time of PBC diagnosis. The prevalence of osteoporosis was significantly higher in the PBC group than in the control group (26% vs 10%, P = 0.015, the Fisher exact probability test). In most PBC patients (95%), the level of bone‐specific alkaline phosphatase was above the normal range, indicating increased bone formation. On the other hand, the urine type I collagen‐cross‐linked N‐telopeptide showed variable levels among our PBC patients, indicating unbalanced bone resorption. Advanced fibrosis was associated with low bone turnover. Lobular cholestasis, evaluated as aberrant keratin 7 expression in hepatocytes, showed significant negative correlations with bone formation and resorption, indicating low bone turnover.

Conclusion

Our results show that, compared with healthy controls, even non‐cirrhotic PBC patients have significantly higher risk of osteoporosis. Moreover, lobular cholestasis was associated with low bone turnover, suggesting this feature of PBC may itself cause secondary osteoporosis in PBC patients.
Environmental Implications of Consumer Convenience: Coffee as a Case Study
Authors: Hicks Andrea L.
Published: January 2017

Products of convenience are playing an increasingly large role in today's society. These products provide a competitive advantage over their conventional counterparts by requiring less time and effort to produce a similar service or experience. At the same time, these products are often also more materials intensive to produce and create a greater amount of waste. A comparative midpoint life cycle assessment of different coffee brewing systems is presented in order to explore the comparative impact of three different systems: drip filter, french press, and pod style (a product of convenience). Utilizing a comparative functional unit, the drip filter system method was found to have the greatest environmental impact in all impact categories, whereas the pod style had the least in six of the impact categories (with the french press having the least in two of the impact categories, and a tie between pod style and french press in a single impact category). This suggests that contrary to popular belief, the pod style coffee may be the more environmentally friendly option. The two most significant contributors to environmental impact in all of the categories considered was the amount of dry coffee utilized and the energy needed to brew the coffee, although in some categories considered transportation was also significant. There is the potential for the environmental impact of coffee brewing to shift if coffee wastage occurs (likely in the case of the drip filter and french press system) or if substantial changes in materials or energy consumption were to occur (in the case of the pod‐style brewing system). From the perspective of industrial ecology, this analysis suggests that, in regard to products of consumer convenience, the convenient alternative may not have a significantly greater environmental impact than its conventional counterpart, and that it may be time to question that often‐held assumption.
Homeownership among Young Americans: A Look at Student Loan Debt and Behavioral Factors
Authors: Letkiewicz Jodi C. , Heckman Stuart J.
Published: January 2017

This study uses the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (1997) to examine the factors that impact homeownership among young adults, with an emphasis on student loan debt. Three key findings arise from the research. First, life cycle and demographic characteristics, such as marital status, education, and income, continue to be strong predictors of homeownership. Married households with a college degree and children are among the most likely to own a home. Second, young adults with student loan debt are no more or less likely to own a home than someone without debt after controlling for a number of factors; however, students who have already paid off their loans are more likely to own a home. Finally, respondents who express a willingness to take risks in finances are more likely to own a home while those who are more conscientious are less likely to own a home.
Usual Care for Rural Veterans With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Grubbs Kathleen M. , Fortney John C. , Kimbrell Tim , Pyne Jeffrey M. , Hudson Teresa , Robinson Dean , Moore William Mark , Custer Paul , Schneider Ronald , Schnurr Paula P.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Community‐Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) provide primary‐care‐based mental health services to rural veterans who live long distances from Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals. Characterizing the composition of usual care will highlight the need and potential strategies to improve access to and engagement in evidence‐based psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Method

Veterans (N = 132) with PTSD recruited from 5 large‐ (5,000‐10,000 patients) and 6 medium‐sized (1,500‐4,999) CBOCs were enrolled in the usual care arm of a randomized control trial for a PTSD collaborative care study. Chart review procedures classified all mental health encounters during the 1‐year study period into 10 mutually exclusive categories (7 psychotherapy and 3 medication management).

Findings

Seventy‐two percent of participants received at least 1 medication management encounter with 30% of encounters being delivered via interactive video. More than half of veterans (58.3%) received at least 1 session of psychotherapy. Only 12.1% received a session of therapy classified as an evidence‐based psychotherapy for PTSD. The vast majority of psychotherapy encounters were delivered in group format and only a small proportion were delivered via interactive video.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that veterans diagnosed with PTSD who receive their mental health treatment in large and medium CBOCs are likely to receive medication management, and very few veterans received evidence‐based psychotherapy. There may be ways to increase access to evidence‐based psychotherapy by expanding the use of interactive video to connect specialty mental health providers with patients, hosted either in CBOCs or in home‐based care, and to offer more group‐based therapies.
“I Went Through it so You Don't Have To”: Faith‐Based Community Organizing for the Formerly Incarcerated
Authors: Flores Edward Orozco , Cossyleon Jennifer Elena
Published: January 2017

This article examines how civil religion reworks state/citizen relations among the formerly incarcerated. Participant observation and interviews were collected at two sites: FORCE (Fighting to Overcome Records and Create Equality), a civic group of formerly incarcerated persons and former gang members, and Community Renewal Society, a larger, interfaith civic group that provided institutional backing for FORCE. Data collection occurred over 18 months, as the two groups utilized faith‐based community organizing to advance legislative reform (Illinois House Bill 5723/3061) expanding the sealing of criminal records. Findings suggest that faith‐based community organizing, together with formerly incarcerated persons’ use of “redemption scripts,” can facilitate empowering social integration. Whereas research on religion in the postincarceration experience has focused on rehabilitation and reentry programming, our findings suggest that civil religion can facilitate empowering social integration. Civil religion enables collective and political action by de‐privatizing personal narratives.
A northern Neolithic? Clay work, cultivation and cultural transformations in the boreal zone of north‐eastern Europe, c.5300–3000 bc
Authors: Herva Vesa‐Pekka , Mökkönen Teemu , Nordqvist Kerkko
Published: January 2017

The adoption of pottery in eastern Fennoscandia in the later sixth millennium BC has traditionally been understood in straightforward technological and practical terms, and as a development that did not mark other significant changes in local culture or ways of life. Recent research in the region, combined with new ideas about Neolithization in Eurasia more generally, nonetheless suggests that the adoption of pottery was associated with more fundamental cultural and environmental transformations than has previously been thought. This article brings together diverse old and new data from north‐eastern Europe and discusses the character and dynamics of cultural and human‐induced environmental change following the adoption of pottery. The aim is to provide a scenario of long‐term cultural changes and, in particular, to consider the significance and broader implications of the very practices of clay use and cultivation, as well as their links to wider cultural and environmental phenomena.
Does Bt rice pose risks to non‐target arthropods? Results of a meta‐analysis in China
Authors: Dang Cong , Lu Zengbin , Wang Long , Chang Xuefei , Wang Fang , Yao Hongwei , Peng Yufa , Stanley David , Ye Gongyin
Published: January 2017

Transgenic Bt rice expressing the insecticidal proteins derived from Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt) has been developed since 1989. Their ecological risks towards non‐target organisms have been investigated; however, these studies were conducted individually, yielding uncertainty regarding potential agroecological risks associated with large‐scale deployment of Bt rice lines. Here, we developed a meta‐analysis of the existing literature to synthesize current knowledge of the impacts of Bt rice on functional arthropod guilds, including herbivores, predators, parasitoids and detritivores in laboratory and field studies. Laboratory results indicate Bt rice did not influence survival rate and developmental duration of herbivores, although exposure to Bt rice led to reduced egg laying, which correctly predicted their reduced abundance in Bt rice agroecosystems. Similarly, consuming prey exposed to Bt protein did not influence survival, development or fecundity of predators, indicating constant abundances of predators in Bt rice fields. Compared to control agroecosystems, parasitoid populations decreased slightly in Bt rice cropping systems, while detritivores increased. We draw two inferences. One, laboratory studies of Bt rice showing effects on ecological functional groups are mainly either consistent with or more conservative than results of field studies, and two, Bt rice will pose negligible risks to the non‐target functional guilds in future large‐scale Bt rice agroecosystems in China.