bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microglial ROCK is essential for chronic methylmercury‐induced neurodegeneration
Authors: Shinozaki Youichi , Danjo Yosuke , Koizumi Schuichi
Published: July 2019

Methylmercury (MeHg), an environmental pollutant, causes serious damage to many organs. Effects on the CNS were initially thought to arise from MeHg acting directly on neurons, but it also has significant effects on non‐neuronal cells such as microglia. Microglia, which are very sensitive to changes in the brain environment, show various phenotypes. We previously reported that upon short exposure to MeHg (MeHgshort) at low concentration, microglia exhibited a neuroprotective phenotype; whereas, long‐term exposure (MeHglong) induced a neurotoxic phenotype of microglia. However, contributions of microglia to MeHg‐induced CNS damage remain unknown. Even at very low concentrations, MeHglong but not MeHgshort caused significant neuronal damage associated with an increased number of reactive microglia in cortical slices from wild‐type (WT) mice. Two‐photon imaging of cortical slices from Iba1‐GFP mice revealed that microglia in control conditions exhibited elongated and complex processes with high motility. MeHglong caused a significant reduction in process motility, retraction of processes, and hypertrophic cell bodies, indicating activated microglia. Moreover, MeHglong ‐treated microglia upregulated pro‐inflammatory molecues, suggesting a change into a neurotoxic phenotype of microglia. As a molecular target, Rho‐kinase (ROCK) was found to be key for controlling microglial reactivity and neurotoxicity. Expression level of ROCK was increased by MeHglong in WT slices, which was abolished by minocycline or Y‐27632. We confirmed that MeHg directly activates microglial ROCK pathways prepared from WT mice. In addition, MeHg‐evoked damage of primary neurons was significantly enhanced by the presence of microglia from WT mice, but offset by minocycline or Y‐27632. Taken together, our data demonstrate that MeHg causes neurodegeneration by inducing a neurotoxic microglia phenotype via a ROCK‐mediated mechanism.

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TERTinhibition leads to reduction ofIL‐6 expression induced by palmitic acid and interferes with the protective effects of tibolone in an astrocytic cell model
Authors: González‐Giraldo Yeimy , Garzón‐Benitez Angie V. , Forero Diego A. , Barreto George E.
Published: July 2019

Although it has been shown that telomerase has neuroprotective effects, mainly as a result of its non‐canonical functions in neuronal cells, its role with respect to glial cells remains unknown. There is growing evidence indicating that telomerase plays an important role with respect to inflammation, especially in the regulation of pro‐inflammatory cytokine gene expression. The present study aimed to evaluate the role of telomerase in an astrocyte cell model treated with palmitic acid (PA) and tibolone. Cell death, reactive oxygen species production and interleukin‐6 expression were evaluated under telomerase inhibition with theBIBR1532 compound in T98G cells treated with tibolone andPA, using fluorometry, flow cytometry, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays and the quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The results obtained showed that telomerase protein was increased byPAafter 36 hours, alone or in combination with tibolone, and that its activity was affected byPA. Telomerase inhibition reduced interleukin‐6 expression and it interfered with the protective effects of tibolone on cell death. Moreover, tibolone increased Tyr707 phosphorylation inPA‐treated cells. In the present study, we provide novel findings about the regulation of telomerase byPAand tibolone. Telomerase was involved in inflammation byPAand in protective effects of tibolone. Therefore, we conclude that telomerase could play a dual role in these cells.
Diagnostic Expectations and Stock Returns
Authors: BORDALO PEDRO , GENNAIOLI NICOLA , PORTA RAFAEL LA , SHLEIFER ANDREI
Published: July 2019

We revisit La Porta's finding that returns on stocks with the most optimistic analyst long‐term earnings growth forecasts are lower than those on stocks with the most pessimistic forecasts. We document the joint dynamics of fundamentals, expectations, and returns of these portfolios, and explain the facts using a model of belief formation based on the representativeness heuristic. Analysts forecast fundamentals from observed earnings growth, but overreact to news by exaggerating the probability of states that have become more likely. We find support for the model's predictions. A quantitative estimation of the model accounts for the key patterns in the data.
Lack of an effective drug therapy for abdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: Golledge J. , Moxon J. V. , Singh T. P. , Bown M. J. , Mani K. , Wanhainen A.
Published: July 2019

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) rupture is a common cause of death in adults. Current AAA treatment is by open surgical or endovascular aneurysm repair. Rodent model and human epidemiology, and genetic and observational studies over the last few decades have highlighted the potential of a number of drug therapies, including medications that lower blood pressure, correct dyslipidaemia, or inhibit thrombosis, inflammation or matrix remodelling, as approaches to managing small AAA. This review summarizes prior AAA pathogenesis data from animal and human studies aimed at identifying targets for the development of drug therapies. The review also systematically assesses past randomized placebo‐controlled drug trials in patients with small AAAs. Eleven previously published randomized‐controlled clinical trials testing different drug therapies aimed at slowing AAA progression were identified. Five of the trials tested antibiotics and three trials assessed medications that lower blood pressure. Meta‐analyses of these trials suggested that neither of these approaches limit AAA growth. Allocation to blood pressure‐lowering medication was associated with a small reduction in AAA rupture or repair, compared to placebo (relative risk 0.94, 95% confidence intervals 0.89, 1.00, P = 0.047). Three further trials assessed the effect of a mast cell inhibitor, fibrate or platelet aggregation inhibition and reported no effect on AAA growth or clinical events. Past trials were noted to have a number of design issues, particularly small sample sizes and limited follow‐up. Much larger trials are needed to properly test potential therapeutic approaches if a convincingly effective medical therapy for AAA is to be identified.
Will We Ever Meet Again? The Relationship between Inter‐Firm Managerial Migration and the Circulation of Client Ties
Authors: Broschak Joseph P. , Block Emily S. , Koppman Sharon , Adjerid Idris
Published: July 2019

A large body of research shows that the migration of managers from one professional service firm to another weakens the old employer’s relationship with its clients, because migrating managers remove their relationship‐specific knowledge and expertise – i.e., human and social capital – from their old employers, redeploying it to their new employers. This study extends this research by introducing a bi‐directional perspective of social capital in which both firms and managers may exploit these relationship‐specific resources. We use theory on social capital to build arguments about how one form of manager mobility, manager migration between two service providers in a single market, can both lead and lag the movement of client ties between those providers, and signaling theory to hypothesize the conditions under which this is likely to occur. Analyses using longitudinal data on New York City advertising agencies generally support our arguments. Our findings contribute to theory and research on manager migration, social capital, and signaling, and raise new questions for how the portability of relationship‐specific social capital shapes markets.
Melatonin suppresses milk fat synthesis by inhibiting the mTOR signaling pathway via the MT1 receptor in bovine mammary epithelial cells
Authors: Wang Yujuan , Guo Wenli , Xu Haichao , Tang Keqiong , Zan Linsen , Yang Wucai
Published: July 2019

Milk fat content is an important criterion for assessing milk quality and is one of the main target traits of dairy cattle breeding. Recent studies have shown the importance of melatonin in regulating lipid metabolism, but the potential effects of melatonin on milk fat synthesis in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs) remain unclear. Here, we showed that melatonin supplementation at 10 μmol/L significantly downregulated the mRNA expression of lipid metabolism–related genes and resulted in lower lipid droplet formation and triglyceride accumulation. Moreover, melatonin significantly upregulated melatonin receptor subtype melatonin receptor 1a (MT1) gene expression, and the negative effects of melatonin on milk fat synthesis were reversed by treatment with the nonselective MT1/melatonin receptor subtype melatonin receptor 1b (MT2) antagonist. However, a selective MT2 antagonist did not modify the negative effects of melatonin on milk fat synthesis. In addition, KEGG analysis revealed that melatonin inhibition of milk fat synthesis may occur via the mTOR signaling pathway. Further analysis revealed that melatonin significantly suppressed the activation of the mTOR pathway by restricting the phosphorylation of mTOR, 4E‐BP1, and p70S6K, and the inhibition of melatonin on milk fat synthesis was reversed by mTOR activator MHY1485 in BMECs. Furthermore, in vivo experiments in Holstein dairy cows showed that exogenous melatonin significantly decreased milk fat concentration. Our data from in vitro and in vivo studies revealed that melatonin suppresses milk fat synthesis by inhibiting the mTOR signaling pathway via the MT1 receptor in BMECs. These findings lay a foundation to identify a new potential means for melatonin to modulate the fat content of raw milk in Holstein dairy cows.
Functionality of strawberry powder on frozen dairy desserts
Authors: Bilbao‐Sainz Cristina , Sinrod Amanda J. G. , Chiou Bor‐Sen , McHugh Tara
Published: July 2019

This study investigated the potential use of freeze‐dried strawberry powder as a stabilizer in frozen dairy desserts. Five different dessert mixes were developed that contained 0%, 2.5%, 3%, 3.5%, and 4% strawberry powder. An additional dessert using strawberry extract was prepared to differentiate the effects of dietary fiber from the effect of polyphenols on sample properties. The rheological and physical characteristics of dessert mixes, fresh dessert, and stored dessert were studied. The addition of strawberry powder to dairy desserts caused an increase in the mix viscosity and a decrease in hardness and meltdown values. Complete avoidance of meltdown was achieved with the addition of 3% or greater amount of strawberry powder. The viscosity of mixes was enhanced due to the increase of total solids in the serum phase and the formation of hydrated and gel‐like networks in the presence of cellulosic material, pectin, and calcium. The increase in viscosity and unfrozen water with the addition of strawberry powder also caused a reduction in ice crystallization, which resulted in softer and more stable desserts over time.
Evaluation of 8‐week glecaprevir/pibrentasvir treatment in direct‐acting antiviral‐naïve noncirrhotic HCV genotype 1 and 2infected patients in a real‐world setting in Japan
Authors: Ikeda Hiroki , Watanabe Tsunamasa , Atsukawa Masanori , Toyoda Hidenori , Takaguchi Koichi , Nakamuta Makoto , Matsumoto Nobuyuki , Okuse Chiaki , Tada Toshifumi , Tsutsui Akemi , Yamashita Naoki , Kondo Chisa , Hayama Korenobu , Kato Keizo , Itokawa Norio , Arai Taeang , Shimada Noritomo , Asano Toru , Uojima Haruki , Ogawa Chikara , Mikami Shigeru , Ikegami Tadashi , Fukunishi Shinya , Asai Akira , Iio Etsuko , Tsubota Akihito , Hiraoka Atsushi , Nozaki Akito , Okubo Hironao , Tachi Yoshihiko , Moriya Akio , Oikawa Tsunekazu , Matsumoto Yoshihiro , Tsuruoka Shuichi , Tani Joji , Kikuchi Kan , Iwakiri Katsuhiko , Tanaka Yasuhito , Kumada Takashi
Published: July 2019

Based on high efficacy and safety demonstrated in clinical trials, treatment with glecaprevir/pibrentasvir (G/P) for 8 weeks is recommended for hepatitis C virus (HCV)–infected patients who are direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) naïve, genotype 1 or 2, and noncirrhotic. The aim of this study was to validate real‐world experience with 8‐week G/P treatment in Japan. We conducted a prospective observational cohort study in 554 patients who underwent 8‐week treatment from among 1,022 patients who initiated G/P therapy. The majority (54.5%) were male, with a median age of 66 years, and HCV genotype distribution was genotype 1, 43.8%; genotype 2, 55.3%; and mixed subtype, 0.9%. Overall, the sustained virologic response rate at 12 weeks (SVR12) was 92.8% (530/571) in the intention‐to‐treat population and 99.3% (526/530) in the per‐protocol population. The SVR12 rates by subgroups were as follows: subtype 1a, 100% (6/6); 1b, 100% (189/189); 2a, 99.3% (150/151); 2b, 99.0% (103/104); and mixed subtype, 50% (2/4). Among four patients with virologic failure following 8‐week treatment with G/P, none had baseline polymorphisms or treatment‐emergent amino acid substitutions in NS3. However, 2 of 4 patients with virologic failure had treatment‐emergent amino acid substitutions in NS5A. Adverse events (AEs) were reported in 21.5% of patients and 1.2% of patients discontinued due to drug‐related AEs. In conclusion, G/P treatment for 8 weeks was safe and effective for DAA‐naïve noncirrhotic genotype 1 or 2 patients in a real‐world clinical setting in Japan.
Age‐specific risk factors for child anaemia in Myanmar: Analysis from the Demographic and Health Survey 2015–2016
Authors: Kang Yunhee , Kim Jihye
Published: July 2019

Anaemia is prevalent among preschool‐aged children in Myanmar, but few epidemiological studies of anaemia at the national level were reported. Using data from the Myanmar Demographic and Health Survey 2015–2016, we examined risk factors for anaemia at household, maternal, and individual levels for children aged 6–23 months (n = 1,133) and 24–59 months (n = 2,393) separately. Survey design and sampling weights were adjusted for in multivariate regression analyses. The prevalence of anaemia was 77.2% in children aged 6–23 months and 50.8% in those aged 24–59 months. Living in geographic zones other than the hilly zone was associated with a higher odds of anaemia in both age groups (OR = 1.86–2.51 [95% lower limit > 1.0]). Maternal anaemia predicted child anaemia in a dose–response manner in both groups (6–23 months of age, OR = 2.01, 95% CI [1.38, 2.92; mild] and OR = 2.41, 95% CI [1.12, 5.19; moderate]; and 24–59 months of age, OR = 1.42, 95% CI [1.12, 1.81; mild] and OR = 2.92, 95% CI [1.91,4.46; moderate]). A maternal age of 14–24 years (ref: 25–34 years, OR = 1.67, 95% CI [1.06, 2.64]) and maternal tolerant attitude to domestic violence (OR = 1.61, 95% CI [1.13, 2.31]) predicted anaemia in children aged 6–23 months only. Younger child age (OR = 0.97, 95% CI [0.96, 0.98]), stunting (OR = 1.35, 95% CI [1.08, 1.69]) and using unimproved drinking water sources (OR = 1.38, 95% CI [1.10, 1.75]) were associated with anaemia in children aged 24–59 months. Consideration of age‐specific risks factors for child anaemia will help in planning anaemia control programmes in Myanmar.
A new flavor of entry exclusion in ICE elements provides a selective advantage for the element and its host
Authors: Dunny Gary M. , Hirt Helmut
Published: July 2019

Entry exclusion has been described in many bacterial conjugation systems, but their molecular mechanisms are not well understood. In the current issue, Avello et al. describe a new exclusion system in the conjugative element ICEBs1. They identify the yddJ gene as the functional exclusion gene and its target as the protein product of the conG gene. They provide evidence for a possible mechanism and for the contribution of the system to reduce fitness costs of ICE expression.
Malassezia interaction with a reconstructed human epidermis: Keratinocyte immune response
Authors: Pedrosa Ana F. , Lisboa Carmen , Branco Joana , Pellevoisin Christian , Miranda Isabel Marcos , Rodrigues Acacio G.
Published: July 2019

The immediate immune response developed by the keratinocytes against Malassezia yeasts has been addressed yielding conflicting results. This study aims the assessment of cytokines and antimicrobial peptides gene expression elicited by M. sympodialis and M. furfur once in contact with a reconstructed human epidermis. A yeast suspension was prepared in RPMI 1640 medium (Sigma‐Aldrich, St. Louis, MO) supplemented with Tween 60 and oleic acid to obtain approximately 1 × 106 cells in a volume of 100 μL. Clinical isolates of M. sympodialis (from pityriasis versicolor) and M. furfur (from seborrhoeic dermatitis) were inoculated, separately, onto a reconstructed human epidermis. A distinct expression pattern was found between the two tested species, with a tendency for overexpression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines very soon after infection, whereas no significant expression or gene downregulation was often noticed following 24 and 48 h of incubation. A possible Malassezia species‐dependent immune response pattern is highlighted.
Multi‐year stigmatic pollen‐load sampling reveals temporal stability in interspecific pollination of flowers in a subalpine meadow
Authors: Fang Qiang , Gao Jie , Armbruster W. Scott , Huang Shuang‐Quan
Published: July 2019

Co‐flowering plants may commonly experience interspecific pollination. It remains unknown, however, whether interspecific pollination is a largely stochastic process or consistent enough over years to exert selection for traits that can reduce interspecific pollination or ameliorate its deleterious effects on reproduction. To assess the likelihood of this precondition being met, stigmatic pollen loads on 17–34 insect‐pollinated plant species over three consecutive years were scored in a subalpine meadow in southwestern China. Plant species varied significantly in the amount and proportion of heterospecific pollen (HP) on stigmas. Both the number of HP species and the proportion of the pollen load that was HP for each recipient species correlated positively between years (reflected in pairwise correlations for all year‐by‐year combinations). Although inter‐annual variation was smaller for conspecific pollen (CP) than for HP loads, species tended to experience either consistently high or consistently low HP proportions across years. We found that species with higher stigmatic HP proportions generally experienced lower proportional variation in stigmatic HP, an unexpected result if high HP loads are the result of rare stochastic events. The novel finding of between‐year consistency in stigmatic loads of heterospecific pollen suggests that adaption to stigmatic loads of HP is possible, and two divergent strategies may have evolved: HP avoidance and HP tolerance. The observation of temporally consistent differences among species in levels of HP supports the idea that natural selection may be operating either to increase tolerance or to minimize arrival of heterospecific pollen on stigmas in co‐flowering plants. Such adaptations may be important for the maintenance of high levels of local plant diversity in biodiversity hotspots such as our study area.
Linking intra‐specific trait variation and plant function: seed size mediates performance tradeoffs within species
Authors: Fricke Evan C. , Tewksbury Joshua J. , Rogers Haldre S.
Published: July 2019

Substantial intra‐specific trait variation exists within plant communities, and in theory this variation could influence community dynamics. Although recent research has focused on intra‐specific variation in traits themselves, it is the influence of this variation on plant performance that makes intra‐specific trait variation relevant to ecological dynamics within or among species. Understanding the links between trait and performance variation, and the role of traits in mediating relationships among multiple components of performance, is critical for assessing the importance of intra‐specific trait variation for community dynamics. Seed size is thought to affect aspects of plant performance including fecundity, seedling growth, dispersal and tolerance of natural enemies. For two tropical tree species, we assessed how seed size was related to performance variation within each species and determined whether intra‐specific trait variation mediates intra‐specific performance tradeoffs. We used field seed rain collection to characterize size‐dependent outcomes of dispersal, sowed seeds of known size in soil collected near or far from conspecifics to characterize susceptibility to soil pathogens, and monitored growth of seedlings from seeds of known size. We found that intra‐specific seed size variation caused intra‐specific performance variation. The degree of trait‐based performance variation was consistently smaller than the degree of trait variation, and seed size influenced different components of performance for each species. One species exhibited a tradeoff in which small seeds had a fecundity advantage (more seedlings per unit reproductive mass) but produced smaller seedlings, whereas the other species exhibited a tradeoff in which small seeds dispersed to areas of low conspecific density but were less tolerant of density‐responsive natural enemies. Our results indicate that a single trait can influence multiple components of performance and can mediate different tradeoffs in co‐occurring species. Complex and heterogeneous effects of a single trait in multidimensional niche space may favour inter‐specific niche differentiation and coexistence.
Non‐resource effects of foundation species on meta‐ecosystem stability and function
Authors: Massé Jodoin Julien , Guichard Frédéric
Published: July 2019

Ecosystems such as forests and mussel beds, that are driven by foundation species can be characterized by the slow accumulation of matter that affect their structural stability. This non‐resource effect of matter on ecosystems can lead to disturbances and to pulsed release and transport of matter over regional scales. However, non‐resource effects of endogenous pulses of matter on meta‐ecosystem stability and function remain largely unknown. Using a two‐patch meta‐ecosystem model of mussel bed dynamics, we show that non‐resource effects of matter on the structural stability of mussel beds promote pulsed releases of matter and fluctuations in population abundance. These pulsed fluctuations explain the maintenance of meta‐ecosystem heterogeneity in the distribution of abundance and matter through out‐of‐phase synchrony and asynchrony over a broad range of connectivity. These regimes of spatial (a)synchrony explain a tradeoff between the regional retention of matter (ecosystem function) and metapopulation persistence. These results reveal how foundation species can cause local and catastrophic changes that can promote regional asynchrony and stability, even under strong connectivity.
Inferring macro‐ecological patterns from local presence/absence data
Authors: Tovo Anna , Formentin Marco , Suweis Samir , Stivanello Samuele , Azaele Sandro , Maritan Amos
Published: July 2019

Biodiversity provides support for life, vital provisions, regulating services and has positive cultural impacts. It is therefore important to have accurate methods to measure biodiversity, in order to safeguard it when we discover it to be threatened. For practical reasons, biodiversity is usually measured at fine scales whereas diversity issues (e.g. conservation) interest regional or global scales. Moreover, biodiversity may change across spatial scales. It is therefore a key challenge to be able to translate local information on biodiversity into global patterns.

Many databases give no information about the abundances of a species within an area, but only its occurrence in each of the surveyed plots. In this paper, we introduce an analytical framework (implemented in a ready‐to‐use R code) to infer species richness and abundances at large spatial scales in biodiversity‐rich ecosystems when species presence/absence information is available on various scattered samples (i.e. upscaling).

This framework is based on the scale‐invariance property of the negative binomial. Our approach allows to infer and link within a unique framework important and well‐known biodiversity patterns of ecological theory, such as the species accumulation curve (SAC) and the relative species abundance (RSA) as well as a new emergent pattern, which is the relative species occupancy (RSO).

Our estimates are robust and accurate, as confirmed by tests performed on both in silico‐generated and real forests. We demonstrate the accuracy of our predictions using data from two well‐studied forest stands. Moreover, we compared our results with other popular methods proposed in the literature to infer species richness from presence to absence data and we showed that our framework gives better estimates. It has thus important applications to biodiversity research and conservation practice.
Neural changes following cognitive remediation therapy for schizophrenia
Authors: Matsuda Yasuhiro , Makinodan Manabu , Morimoto Tsubasa , Kishimoto Toshifumi
Published: July 2019

Patients with schizophrenia experience cognitive impairments that relate to poorer social functioning even after amelioration of positive symptoms. Pharmacological treatment and cognitive remediation are the two important therapeutic approaches for cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. Cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) for schizophrenia improves cognitive functioning and induces neuroplasticity, but different approaches and durations of CRT and different neuroimaging devices have led to varying results in meta‐analyses. The objective of this review was to explore the impact of CRT on neurobiology. Several studies have provided evidence of increased activation in the frontal brain regions, such as the prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, and parietal and occipital regions during working memory or executive function tasks after CRT. Two studies have shown alterations in resting‐state connectivity between the prefrontal cortex and temporal regions. Two studies have reported that CRT induces changes in gray matter volume in the hippocampus. Further, one study observed that patients who had received CRT had elevated fractional anisotropy in the basal ganglia. We conclude that neuroimaging studies assessing CRT in patients with schizophrenia showed functional, structural, and connectivity changes that were positively correlated with cognitive improvements despite heterogeneous CRT approaches. Future studies that combine multiple modalities are required to address the differences, effects of intrinsic motivation, and pharmacological augmentation of CRT. Further understanding of the biological basis might lead to predictions of the CRT response in patients with schizophrenia and contribute to identification of schizophrenia patients for future interventions.
Donation after cardiac death kidneys are suitable for pediatric recipients
Authors: MacConmara Malcolm , El Mokdad Ali , Gattineni Jyothsna , Hwang Christine S.
Published: July 2019

Despite the high number of children listed for kidney transplantation and shortage of deceased organ donors, there is reluctance to utilize DCD kidneys in pediatric recipients. We examined outcomes in pediatric kidney transplant patients who received a DCD kidney allograft. UNOS database was queried to examine outcomes in all pediatric kidney transplant recipients from 1994 to 2017. Pediatric status was defined as <18 years at the time of transplantation. Recipients were divided by DBD or DCD allograft status. Donor and recipient demographic data were examined. Patient and allograft survival was calculated, and Kaplan‐Meier survival curves were generated. A P‐value of <0.05 was considered to be significant. A total of 286 pediatric kidney transplant recipients received a DCD allograft. The donors in the DCD group were significantly younger than those in the DBD group (21.7 vs 23.3 years), with a higher KDPI (26.5% vs 22.9%). In the DCD group, the average age at transplant was younger (11.6 vs 12.9 years), with no difference in cold ischemia time or length of stay between the two groups. Rates of delayed graft function were higher in the DCD group, but despite this, there were no significant differences in allograft or patient survival between the groups. There is no difference in allograft survival in pediatric kidney transplant recipients who receive a DCD kidney allograft. DCD kidney allografts are suitable for transplantation in pediatric patients and can greatly expand the donor pool.
Late allograft fibrosis in pediatric liver transplant recipients: Assessed by histology and transient elastography
Authors: Chanpong Atchariya , Angkathunyakul Napat , Sornmayura Pattana , Tanpowpong Pornthep , Lertudomphonwanit Chatmanee , Panpikoon Tanapong , Treepongkaruna Suporn
Published: July 2019

Late allograft fibrosis in LT recipients can cause graft dysfunction and may result in re‐transplantation. TE is a non‐invasive tool for the assessment of liver fibrosis. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of allograft fibrosis in pediatric LT recipients, identify factors associated with allograft fibrosis, and determine the diagnostic value of TE, compared to histology. All children who underwent LT for ≥3 years were included. TE was performed for LSM in all patients. LSM of ≥7.5 kPa was considered as abnormal and suggestive of allograft fibrosis. Percutaneous liver biopsy was performed when patients had abnormal LSM and/or abnormal LFTs. Histological fibrosis was diagnosed when METAVIR score ≥F1 or LAF scores ≥1. TE was performed in 43 patients and 14 (32.5%) had abnormal LSM suggestive of allograft fibrosis. Histological fibrosis was identified in 10 of the 15 patients (66.7%) who underwent percutaneous liver biopsy and associated findings included chronic active HBV infection (n = 3), and late acute rejection (n = 3). Multivariate analysis showed that graft age was significantly associated with allograft fibrosis (OR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.05‐1.41, P = 0.01). In conclusion, late allograft fibrosis is common in children undergoing LT for ≥3 years and associated with graft age. HBV infection and late acute rejection are common associated findings. Abnormal TE and/or LFTs may guide physicians to consider liver biopsy for the detection of late allograft fibrosis in LT children.
Haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with post‐transplant high‐dose cyclophosphamide in high‐risk children: A single‐center study
Authors: Uygun Vedat , Karasu Gülsün , Daloğlu Hayriye , Öztürkmen Seda , Çakı Kılıç Suar , Hazar Volkan , Yeşilipek Akif
Published: July 2019

Background

Post‐Cy administration for GVHD prophylaxis in unmanipulated haploidentical HSCT has resulted in improved outcomes in recent years. Studies in children are lacking and accordingly we present the outcomes of 62 haploidentical transplantation for high‐risk children.

Procedure

We retrospectively assessed 62 transplants in 60 patients who underwent haploidentical‐related HSCT with unmanipulated stem cells and for whom Post‐Cy was used for GVHD prophylaxis.

Results

Myeloid reconstitution was achieved on day + 30 for 57 of the 62 patients. The median follow‐up of the surviving 39 patients (63%) was 26 months, with a range of 6‐57 months. The OS and EFS at 2 years were 64.6% (52.0%‐77.2%, 95% CI) and 58.9% (46.1%‐71.7%, 95% CI), respectively. The only factor in our multivariate analysis that contributed to an inferior EFS was a poor remission status prior to HSCT (HR, 8.30; 1.08‐63.56; P = 0.041, 95% CI).

Conclusion

The results of T‐cell replete haploidentical transplantation with Post‐Cy GVHD prophylaxis in high‐risk pediatric patients are promising. However, further research is needed to determine the factors that have affect HLA compatibility for predicting the success of haploidentical transplantations.
Echinochloa crus‐galli seed physiological dormancy and germination responses to hypoxic floodwaters
Authors: Peralta Ogorek L. , Striker G. G. , Mollard F. P. O.
Published: July 2019

Hypoxic floodwaters can seriously damage seedlings. Seed dormancy could be an effective trait to avoid lethal underwater germination. This research aimed to discover novel adaptive dormancy responses to hypoxic floodwaters in seeds of Echinochloa crus‐galli, a noxious weed from rice fields and lowland croplands.

Echinochloa crus‐galli dormant seeds were subjected to a series of sequential treatments. Seeds were: (i) submerged under hypoxic floodwater (simulated with hypoxic flasks) at different temperatures for 15 or 30 days, and germination tested under drained conditions while exposing seeds to dormancy‐breaking signals (alternating temperatures, nitrate (KNO3), light); or (ii) exposed to dormancy‐breaking signals during hypoxic submergence, and germination monitored during incubation and after transfer to drained conditions.

Echinochloa crus‐galli seed primary dormancy was attenuated under hypoxic submergence but to a lesser extent than under drained conditions. Hypoxic floodwater did not reinforced dormancy but hindered secondary dormancy induction in warm temperatures. Seeds did not germinate under hypoxic submergence even when subjected to dormancy‐breaking signals; however, these signals broke dormancy in seeds submerged under normoxic water. Seeds submerged in hypoxic water could sense light through phytochrome signals and germinated when normoxic conditions were regained.

Hypoxic floodwaters interfere with E. crus‐galli seed seasonal dormancy changes. Dormancy‐breaking signals are overridden during hypoxic floods, drastically decreasing underwater germination. In addition, results indicate that a fraction of E. crus‐galli seeds perceive dormancy‐breaking signals under hypoxic water and germinate immediately after aerobic conditions are regained, a hazardous yet less competitive environment for establishment.
Physical Stores in the Digital Age: How Store Closures Affect Consumer Churn
Authors: Soysal Gonca , Zentner Alejandro , Zheng Zhiqiang (Eric)
Published: July 2019

In this study, we investigate how consumers derive value from having the option to use physical stores for their transactions in the DVD rental market. We analyze data from consumers who subscribed to an online‐offline video rental service from a leading company that closed a large number of physical store locations during our study period. We quantify the extent to which offline store closures induced individuals to terminate their subscriptions with our focal company. We further examine how physical store closures affected customers’ churn decisions differently for individuals who either heavily or lightly used physical stores for their transactions. Our results show that the closure of a physical store in a zip code increased customer churn by approximately 50% for heavy users of physical stores compared to no increase for light users. Our findings suggest the presence of substantial heterogeneity across customers regarding how much utility they derived from having the option of using physical stores for their transactions.
The Economics of Overlapping Surgeries
Authors: Freeman Nickolas , Zhao Ming , Melouk Sharif , Mittenthal John
Published: July 2019

We study the widespread practice of assigning a single surgeon to two operating rooms (ORs), which is known as overlapping surgery. We first describe the fundamental trade‐offs that motivate hospitals to employ the practice. Then, we conduct a mathematical analysis for the completion of a set of elective operations under an overlapping surgery policy and a more traditional, serial scheduling policy. We use this analysis, along with a cost function that considers surgeon idle time and total OR time, to derive two models for predicting environments where overlapping surgery is preferable. We use insights from our modeling efforts to provide objective evidence that supports or opposes claims made in the medical trade literature regarding the use of overlapping surgery. In particular, we show that contrary to claims in the medical trade literature, overlapping surgery does not allow a hospital to increase total surgical volume. Finally, we show that hospitals interested in employing overlapping surgery are best served by focusing efforts aimed at reducing time requirement uncertainty on turnover times instead of procedure times.
Sentimental Utility Theory: Interpreting the Utilization of Collective Emotions by the Political Elite Through the Erdoğan‐Obama Friendship
Authors: van Hoef Yuri , O'Connor Ryan
Published: July 2019

Barack Obama's 2009 visit to Turkey resulted in an Obama‐Mania in Turkish media, followed by a friendship between Obama and Recep Erdoğan, which was widely reported in the media and emphasized in their rhetoric. This article explains the existence of the Erdoğan‐Obama friendship narrative, in spite of no actual political friendship existing. We first interpret their relationship through five key components of political friendship (affect, grand project, altruistic reciprocity, moral obligations, equality) and argue that, despite a strong friendship narrative, their histories, leadership styles, and political goals diverged to such an extent that a friendship never existed. We then introduce sentimental utility theory (SUT) to explain the utility of maintaining the appearance of a friendship. Through SUT, this article illuminates the utility of collective emotions and offers insight into how collective emotions produce ingroup identities and generate stability for a state's population. SUT reveals how Erdoğan utilized the Obama‐mania in Turkey to create a personal bond with Obama which linked himself, and his policies, to Obama and his progressive policies. Future research can deploy SUT to make sense of other claims of friendship and special relationships between states and between state leaders.
Semen parameters and testicular dimensions in small breed dogs below ten‐kilogram bodyweight
Authors: Zeller Romy , Meyer‐Lindenberg Andrea , Walter Beate , Leykam Christian , Flock Ulrike , Reese Sven , Otzdorff Christiane
Published: July 2019

Because of few available data on semen parameters in small breed dogs, the study aimed to analyse semen and measure testes of dogs ≤10.0 kg bodyweight. Semen was collected from 41 fertile stud dogs, which were divided based on bodyweight: group 1 ≤ 5.0 kg and group 2 between 5.1 and 10.0 kg. Median values for ejaculate volume (group 1: 1.2 ml; group 2: 2.2 ml), total sperm output (group 1: 110.7 × 106; group 2: 215.1 × 106) and testicular volume (group 1: left testicle 2.8 ml, right testicle 2.7 ml; group 2: left testicle 5.5 ml, right testicle 5.0 ml) were lower in group 1 compared to dogs of group 2 (p = .001; p = .001; both testes: p < .001). There was no difference in sperm concentration (p = .985). Based on these results, introduction of an additional weight group to the commonly used reference values is recommended, since values for ejaculate volume, total sperm output and testicular dimensions for dogs ≤5.0 kg bodyweight differed significantly from values of dogs with a bodyweight from 5.1 to 10.0 kg.
Characterization of the extracellular matrix in the chorioallantoic membrane of water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) in early gestation
Authors: Borghesi Jéssica , da Silva Ferreira Higor , Oliveira Favaron Phelipe , Mario Lara Carolina , de Almeida da Anunciação Adriana Raquel , Oliveira Franceliusa Delys de , Gonçalves Hayashi Rafael , Caroprezo Morini Adriana , Miglino Maria Angelica
Published: July 2019

Placenta is formed by a parenchyma rich in extracellular matrix (ECM), and this structure guarantees the proper development of the embryo and placental functioning. Recently, studies have focused on the characterization of ECM in the placenta and foetal membranes of different species. This work aimed to analyse the composition of the ECM and to quantify the types of collagens in its composition. For this, 33 chorioallantoic membranes were used at different gestational ages, which were grouped into five groups. Subsequently, haematoxylin–eosin staining, Masson trichrome and picrosirius were performed for histological analysis. Through the technique of polarized light, it was possible to quantify the total collagen present in the membranes and finally the immunohistochemical technique was performed to verify the presence of collagens and glycoproteins. It was possible to verify that the chorioallantoic membranes have, in all the gestational periods of the initial third of gestation, the same histological structures, being the most significant difference the membrane thickening that occurs gradually during the gestation. However, we notice the appearance of binucleate cells only from group II. In addition, it was verified that a gradual increase of collagen occurs until the group IV, yet from the group V begins to occur a decrease of this protein. In addition, collagen I, collagen III, fibronectin and laminin were present in all membranes. With this, we concluded that the buffalo chorioallantoic membrane presents ECM in constant remodelling at the beginning of gestation and can be used as biomaterial in works on regenerative biology.
Determination of the relationship between serum anti‐Müllerian hormone level and superovulatory response in Simmental cows
Authors: Sevgi Ramazan , Erdem Hüseyin , Karaşahin Tahir , Yılmaz Mehmet Ali , Satılmış Muharrem , Okuroğlu Alaeddin , Ünal İlker , Dursun Şükrü , Alkan Hasan , Satılmış Fatma , Güler Mehmet
Published: July 2019

The most significant focal points of the embryo transfer technology are as follows: the selection of donors, the response of the selected donor to the superovulation protocol and the obtained number of the transferable embryos. For this purpose, it is suggested that donor selection can be done by anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels, and embryo production is evaluated. AMH is secreted by the granulosa cells of primordial, pre‐antral and antral follicles below 4 mm in the ovary, independent of FSH. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum AMH levels and the number of corpus luteum (CL), total embryos and transferable embryos that were shaped after a uniform superovulation protocol. For this reason, 48 Simmental cows, which were located at General Directory of Agricultural Enterprises (region, province, etc. instead of the general directorate), were used as donors for the embryo transfer. Blood samples were taken at random, regardless of the stage of animal's sexual cycle. AMH levels were measured by enzyme‐linked fluorescent assay (ELFA) method of the miniVIDAS® (bioMérieux SA) using AMH Bovine Test Kit. According to the statistical analyses of the obtained data, AMH levels were positively correlated with CL and total embryos (p < .05). No significant correlations between AMH and transferable embryos were approved (p > .05). It was also determined that each 200 pg/ml increase in serum AMH level resulted in one increase in CL number. Overall, considering the positive correlation between AMH level and the obtained number of CL and total embryos after a superovulation treatment, it was concluded that measuring blood AMH level prior to any further costly implementation may be an effective method in donor selection.
Differences in foot muscle morphology and foot kinematics between symptomatic and asymptomatic pronated feet
Authors: Zhang Xianyi , Pauel Rinus , Deschamps Kevin , Jonkers Ilse , Vanwanseele Benedicte
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the differences in foot muscle morphology and 3D multisegmental foot kinematics during walking between symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals with pronated feet (pronators) in a physically active population.

Methods

A total of 30 young physically active adults with pronated feet participated in this study, with 15 of them having recurring overuse injuries in the lower extremity in the 6 months prior to the test. A pronated foot was identified as having a foot posture index score between 6 and 12. An ultrasound system was used to measure the cross‐sectional area and thickness of foot muscles of interest, including peroneus muscles, flexor digitorum longus and brevis, and abductor hallucis. Foot kinematic data during walking was collected using a 3D motion capture system incorporating the Oxford Foot Model.

Results

The symptomatic pronators demonstrated smaller cross‐sectional area of flexor digitorum longus and abductor hallucis, and thinner peroneus muscles and abductor hallucis than their asymptomatic counterparts. The symptomatic pronators also displayed higher forefoot peak abduction during the stance phase of walking.

Conclusion

There are differences in both extrinsic and intrinsic foot muscle morphology between symptomatic and asymptomatic pronators in a physically active adult population. Strengthening foot muscles may contribute to injury prevention in pronators. Large forefoot abduction instead of large rearfoot eversion during walking might be the indicator of pain in physically active pronators. Findings of this study may have implications on the underlying mechanisms of overuse injuries in individuals with pronated feet.
A grounded theory of inspirational coach leadership
Authors: Figgins Sean G. , Smith Matthew J. , Knight Camilla J. , Greenlees Iain A.
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study was to develop a grounded theory of the process of inspirational coach leadership in sport. A Straussian grounded theory methodology was used. Semi‐structured interviews and focus groups were conducted with athletes (n = 22) and coaches (n = 15). Data were analyzed through a process of open and axial coding, and theoretical integration. Through the process of analysis, data were broken down into smaller units (concepts), relationships between concepts were identified, and a substantive grounded theory was developed. The grounded theory of inspirational coach leadership was built around the core category of “athlete(s) inspired through changed awareness of their capabilities.” The core category was underpinned by three categories: (a) establishment of mutual trust and respect with athletes, whereby coaches need to establish trust with athletes in order to inspire athletes; (b) conditions under which inspiration has the potential to occur, which highlighted that athletes are inspired in situations where they are vulnerable or ignorant regarding their potential; and (c) coach acts to change athlete's awareness of their capabilities, which denotes the specific behaviors coaches should display to inspire athletes in such conditions. The theory also highlights that a range of contextual factors relating to the coach, athletes, and performance‐environment interact to impact upon the process. The theory predicts that consistency between coach behavior and the conditions in which inspiration can occur will lead to athlete inspiration, but only if the coach has established a foundation of trust and respect with the athlete.
The role of antenatal and postnatal maternal bonding in infant development: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Le Bas Genevieve A. , Youssef George J. , Macdonald Jacqui A. , Rossen Larissa , Teague Samantha J. , Kothe Emily J. , McIntosh Jennifer E. , Olsson Craig A. , Hutchinson Delyse M.
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study was to systematically review the empirical literature on maternal bonding and associations with infant physical, psychological, and social development. Nineteen articles met inclusion criteria and were included in a qualitative synthesis (79 effect sizes); 15 articles were suitable for aggregation in a series of 14 meta‐analyses (51 effect sizes). All mean effects were in the expected direction, with higher maternal bonding contributing to infant developmental outcomes, including higher attachment quality (r = .35) and parent‐reported lower colic rating (r = .22), easier temperament (r = .19), and positive infant mood (r = .27). Consistent with theoretical explanatory models, the review provides support for the hypothesis that maternal bonding plays a role in fostering more optimal infant development. The review also identifies a paucity of empirical work on this topic and provides directions for future research.