bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zika virus infection induces synthesis of Digoxin in glioblastoma cells
Authors: Lima Estela de O. , Guerreiro Tatiane M. , Melo Carlos F. O. R. , de Oliveira Diogo N. , Machado Daisy , Lancelloti Marcelo , Catharino Rodrigo R.
Published: August 2017

Recently, microcephaly cases have increased in Americas and have been matter of concern due to Zika virus (ZIKV) recent outbreak. Previous studies have shown that ZIKV-infected progenitor neuronal cells present morphological abnormalities and increased rates of cell death, which may be indicators of microcephaly causes. As recent studies indicate Zika virus’ tropism for brain cells, how would a glioblastoma (GBM) lineage behave under ZIKV infection, considering GBM the most common and malignant brain tumor in adults, presenting extreme chemoresistance and high morbidity and mortality rates? The current trend of using genetically engineered oncolytic pathogens as a safe way to eliminate tumors is under development, with trials already in course. Therefore, the present study evaluated the possible oncolytic effects and metabolomic alterations of Zika virus infection at human malignant M059J glioblastoma cells. Microscopic evaluation was performed using optical microscopy, which showed cytopathic effects induced by ZIKV at GBM cells. For the metabolomics study, both control and infected cell cultures were submitted to MALDI-MSI analysis. Mass spectrometry data were submitted to PLS-DA statistical analysis, and distinct biomarkers were elected for each infected groups. This study brings light to unexpectedly induced metabolic changes, as endogenous Digoxin as important biomarker for ZIKV-GBM group, associated with cytopathic effects induced by viral infection. These results evidences that genetically engineered ZIKV might be a potential new strategy for neural cancer management through the induction of endogenous digoxin synthesis in glioblastoma cells.
Id genes are essential for early heart formation
Authors: Cunningham Thomas J. , Yu Michael S. , McKeithan Wesley L. , Spiering Sean , Carrette Florent , Huang Chun-Teng , Bushway Paul J. , Tierney Matthew , Albini Sonia , Giacca Mauro , Mano Miguel , Puri Pier Lorenzo , Sacco Alessandra , Ruiz-Lozano Pilar , Riou Jean-Francois , Umbhauer Muriel , Duester Gregg , Mercola Mark , Colas Alexandre R.
Published: August 2017

Deciphering the fundamental mechanisms controlling cardiac specification is critical for our understanding of how heart formation is initiated during embryonic development and for applying stem cell biology to regenerative medicine and disease modeling. Using systematic and unbiased functional screening approaches, we discovered that the Id family of helix–loop–helix proteins is both necessary and sufficient to direct cardiac mesoderm formation in frog embryos and human embryonic stem cells. Mechanistically, Id proteins specify cardiac cell fate by repressing two inhibitors of cardiogenic mesoderm formation—Tcf3 and Foxa2—and activating inducers Evx1, Grrp1, and Mesp1. Most importantly, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated ablation of the entire Id (Id1–4) family in mouse embryos leads to failure of anterior cardiac progenitor specification and the development of heartless embryos. Thus, Id proteins play a central and evolutionarily conserved role during heart formation and provide a novel means to efficiently produce cardiovascular progenitors for regenerative medicine and drug discovery applications.
Literature review of mobile banking and individual performance
Authors: Tam Carlos , Oliveira Tiago
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Most empirical studies of m-banking seek to understand the factors and motivations that influence the adoption or behaviour intention. The purpose of this paper is to focus on analysing and synthesising existing studies and make recommendations to researchers and practitioners.

Design/methodology/approach

Few papers focus on the m-banking use and individual performance, but on the determinants of adoption measures, instead. This research examines 64 journal articles published between 2002 and 2016 in top journals. Following a comprehensive review of the literature, the authors propose a research agenda.

Findings

The importance of use and individual performance has long been recognised by academics and practitioners in a variety of functional disciplines. The present review indicates that the topics of m-banking adoption and behavioural intention dominate the majority of research, but finds very few studies on post-adoption. The two most significant drivers of intentions to adopt m-banking are perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness. Considering several m-banking definitions, the authors propose a new, broader definition that takes into account the technological changes that have occurred over time. m-banking is a service or product offered by financial institutions that makes use of portable technologies.

Originality/value

This paper assembles this diverse body of knowledge into a coherent whole. The authors expect that this review will be of benefit to anyone interested in m-banking research and that it will help to stimulate further interest. In order to advance research in m-banking, future research should consider other theories uncovered in our findings.
Mobile banking service quality and customer relationships
Authors: Arcand Manon , PromTep Sandrine , Brun Isabelle , Rajaobelina Lova
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the multidimensional concept of mobile banking service quality (security/privacy, practicity, design/aesthetics, enjoyment and sociality) and the impact of the latter on the quality of the relationship (commitment, trust and satisfaction) between consumers and their primary financial institution.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted using a sample of 375 respondents, all owners of a mobile device and all accustomed to conducting banking activities on mobile platforms. Results were analyzed using structural modeling techniques (EQS 6.1).

Findings

Findings confirm that trust significantly and positively impacts commitment/satisfaction. Mobile banking service quality dimensions also influence trust and commitment/satisfaction. Trust is associated with security/privacy and practicity (regarded as utilitarian factors), while commitment/satisfaction is driven by enjoyment and sociality (dimensions more hedonic by nature). No link is found between interface design and either trust or commitment/satisfaction.

Originality/value

This study contributes to bank marketing theory since it is the first to demonstrate how key mobile banking service quality dimensions drive customer perceptions of relationship quality. In doing so, this research extends beyond mobile adoption (short term) by addressing customer engagement with financial institutions and issues relating to relationship quality (long term). Regarding managerial implications, findings signal to marketers in the financial services industry the importance of not underestimating the power of hedonic factors (sociality and enjoyment) when developing mobile platforms. These dimensions are often overlooked in the banking industry, a sector in which consumers are believed to be mostly driven by utilitarian motives.
Stay‐at‐home strategy brings fitness benefits to migrants
Authors: Gilroy James J.
Published: August 2017

In Focus: Lok, T., Veldhoen, L., Overdijk, O., Tinbergen, J. M., & Piersma, T. (2017). An age‐dependent fitness cost of migration? Old trans‐Saharan migrating spoonbills breed later than those staying in Europe, and late breeders have lower recruitment. Journal of Animal Ecology, 86, 998–1009.

In Focus: Grist, H., Daunt, F., Wanless, S., Burthe, S. J., Newell, M. A., Harris, M. P., & Reid, J. M. (2017). Reproductive performance of resident and migrant males, females and pairs in a partially migratory bird. Journal of Animal Ecology, 86, 1010–1021.

In this issue, two studies examine the extent to which variation in migratory behaviour influences individual fitness across a population. Lok, Veldhoen, Overdijk, Tinbergen, and Piersma () examine reproductive success and post‐fledging survival in a population of Eurasian spoonbills (Platalea leucorodia), comparing individuals that winter in south‐west Europe against those migrating to sub‐Saharan Africa, while Grist et al. () measure reproductive success in a population of European shags (Phalacrocorax aristotelis) breeding in Scotland that either remain resident or migrate to surrounding waters. Both studies find that individuals migrating longer distances tend to show later initiation of breeding attempts. In turn, longer migration correlates with lower reproductive success in both populations. In spoonbills, this effect is most pronounced in older male birds, while young individuals show little difference in breeding success with respect to migration distance. In shags, fitness benefits of residence were most pronounced when both individuals of a pair were resident, although there was no evidence of assortative mating. Both studies provide fascinating new insights into the role migratory variability can play in shaping population dynamics.
Parasite metacommunities: Evaluating the roles of host community composition and environmental gradients in structuring symbiont communities within amphibians
Authors: Mihaljevic Joseph R. , Hoye Bethany J. , Johnson Pieter T. J.
Published: August 2017

Ecologists increasingly report the structures of metacommunities for free‐living species, yet far less is known about the composition of symbiont communities through space and time. Understanding the drivers of symbiont community patterns has implications ranging from emerging infectious disease to managing host microbiomes.

Using symbiont communities from amphibian hosts sampled from wetlands of California,USA, we quantified the effects of spatial structure, habitat filtering and host community components on symbiont occupancy and overall metacommunity structure.

We built upon a statistical method to describe metacommunity structure that accounts for imperfect detection in survey data—detection error‐corrected elements of metacommunity structure—by adding an analysis to identify covariates of community turnover. We applied our model to a metacommunity of eight parasite taxa observed in 3,571 Pacific chorus frogs (Pseudacris regilla) surveyed from 174 wetlands over 5 years.

Symbiont metacommunity structure varied across years, showing nested structure in 3 years and random structure in 2 years. Species turnover was most consistently influenced by spatial and host community components. Occupancy generally increased in more southeastern wetlands, and snail (intermediate host) community composition had strong effects on most symbiont taxa.

We have used sophisticated but accessible statistical methods to reveal that spatial components—which influence colonization—and host community composition—which mediates transmission—both drive symbiont community composition in this system. These methods allow us to associate broad patterns of community turnover to local, species‐level effects, ultimately improving our understanding of spatial community dynamics.
Physiology at near‐critical temperatures, but not critical limits, varies between two lizard species that partition the thermal environment
Authors: Telemeco Rory S. , Gangloff Eric J. , Cordero Gerardo A. , Polich Rebecca L. , Bronikowski Anne M. , Janzen Fredric J.
Published: August 2017

The mechanisms that mediate the interaction between the thermal environment and species ranges are generally uncertain. Thermal environments may directly restrict species when environments exceed tolerance limits (i.e. the fundamental niche). However, thermal environments might also differentially affect relative performance among species prior to fundamental tolerances being met (i.e. the realized niche).

We examined stress physiology (plasma glucose and corticosterone), mitochondrial performance and the muscle metabolome of congeneric lizards that naturally partition the thermal niche,Elgaria multicarinata(southern alligator lizards;SALs) andElgaria coerulea(northern alligator lizards;NALs), in response to a thermal challenge to quantify variation in physiological performance and tolerance.

BothNALandSALdisplayed physiological stress in response to high temperature, but neither showed signs of irreversible damage.NALdisplayed a higher baseline mitochondrial respiration rate thanSAL. Moreover,NALsubstantially adjusted their physiology in response to thermal challenge, whereasSALdid not. For example, the metabolite profile ofNALshifted with changes in key energetic molecules, whereas these were unaffected inSAL.

Our results indicate that near‐critical high temperatures should incur greater energetic cost inNALthanSALvia an elevated metabolic rate and changes to the metabolome. Thus,SALdisplaceNALin warm environments that are withinNAL's fundamental thermal niche, but relatively costly.

Our results suggest that subcritical thermal events can contribute to biogeographic patterns via physiological differences that alter the relative costs of living in warm or cool environments.
Micro‐computed tomographic analysis of the radial geometry of intrarenal artery‐vein pairs in rats and rabbits: Comparison with light microscopy
Authors: Ngo Jennifer P. , Le Bianca , Khan Zohaib , Kett Michelle M. , Gardiner Bruce S. , Smith David W. , Melhem Mayer M. , Maksimenko Anton , Pearson James T. , Evans Roger G.
Published: August 2017

We assessed the utility of synchrotron‐radiation micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT) for quantification of the radial geometry of the renal cortical vasculature. The kidneys of nine rats and six rabbits were perfusion fixed and the renal circulation filled with Microfil. In order to assess shrinkage of Microfil, rat kidneys were imaged at the Australian Synchrotron immediately upon tissue preparation and then post fixed in paraformaldehyde and reimaged 24 hours later. The Microfil shrank only 2‐5% over the 24 hour period. All subsequent micro‐CT imaging was completed within 24 hours of sample preparation. After micro‐CT imaging, the kidneys were processed for histological analysis. In both rat and rabbit kidneys, vascular structures identified in histological sections could be identified in two‐dimensional (2D) micro‐CT images from the original kidney. Vascular morphology was similar in the two sets of images. Radial geometry quantified by manual analysis of 2D images from micro‐CT was consistent with corresponding data generated by light microscopy. However, due to limited spatial resolution when imaging a whole organ using contrast‐enhanced micro‐CT, only arteries ≥100 and ≥60 μm in diameter, for the rat and rabbit respectively, could be assessed. We conclude that it is feasible and valid to use micro‐CT to quantify vascular geometry of the renal cortical circulation in both the rat and rabbit. However, a combination of light microscopic and micro‐CT approaches are required to evaluate the spatial relationships between intrarenal arteries and veins over an extensive range of vessel size.
Update on Postdialysis Rebound by a New Technology in Hemodialysis
Authors: Testal Alicia García , Marín David Hervás , Maset Rafael García , Maicas Pilar Royo , Salvador Inmaculada Soledad Rico , Díaz Pau Olagüe , Najera Jose Enrique Fernández , De Juan Eduardo Torregrosa , Carrera Caterina Benedito
Published: August 2017

After dialysis ends, urea continued movement causes rebound postdialysis, with values at about 20%. New techniques have been incorporated into hemodialysis, but their relationship with rebound has not yet been studied. This study aimed to quantify urea rebound at 30‐min postdialysis during sessions using polysulfone filters and high‐flow versus online hemodiafiltration, and to define its correlation with body composition measured by bioimpedance by a cross‐sectional study with 69 patients (December 2015 to January 2016). Mean urea rebound was 24.39, which was positively associated with recirculation, Kt/V or hypotension, and showed a negative relationship with online hemodiafiltration. It was not associated with different body composition compartments. To conclude, postdialysis urea rebound remained high with polysulfone dialyzers and low dialysis doses. Online hemodiafiltration could improve postdialysis urea rebound. Different body composition compartments were not related to rebound.
Turmeric Extract Rescues Ethanol‐Induced Developmental Defect in the Zebrafish Model for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
Authors: Muralidharan Pooja , Connors Craig T. , Mohammed Arooj S. , Sarmah Swapnalee , Marrs Kathleen , Marrs James A. , Chism Grady W.
Published: August 2017

Prenatal ethanol exposure causes the most frequent preventable birth disorder, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). The effect of turmeric extracts in rescuing an ethanol‐induced developmental defect using zebrafish as a model was determined. Ethanol‐induced oxidative stress is one of the major mechanisms underlying FASD. We hypothesize that antioxidant inducing properties of turmeric may alleviate ethanol‐induced defects. Curcuminoid content of the turmeric powder extract (5 mg/mL turmeric in ethanol) was determined by UPLC and found to contain Curcumin (124.1 ± 0.2 μg/mL), Desmethoxycurcumin (43.4 ± 0.1 μg/mL), and Bisdemethoxycurcumin (36.6 ± 0.1 μg/mL). Zebrafish embryos were treated with 100 mM (0.6% v/v) ethanol during gastrulation through organogenesis (2 to 48 h postfertilization (hpf)) and supplemented with turmeric extract to obtain total curcuminoid concentrations of 0, 1.16, 1.72, or 2.32 μM. Turmeric supplementation showed significant rescue of the body length at 72 hpf compared to ethanol‐treated embryos. The mechanism underlying the rescue remains to be determined.
Genomewide DNA methylation analysis in combat veterans reveals a novel locus for PTSD
Authors: Mehta D. , Bruenig D. , Carrillo‐Roa T. , Lawford B. , Harvey W. , Morris C. P. , Smith A. K. , Binder E. B. , Young R. McD , Voisey J.
Published: August 2017

Objective

Epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation may play a key role in the aetiology and serve as biomarkers for post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We performed a genomewide analysis to identify genes whose DNA methylation levels are associated with PTSD.

Method

A total of 211 individuals comprising Australian male Vietnam War veterans (n = 96) and males from a general population belonging to the Grady Trauma Project (n = 115) were included. Genomewide DNA methylation was performed from peripheral blood using the Illumina arrays. Data analysis was performed using generalized linear regression models.

Results

Differential DNA methylation of 17 previously reported PTSD candidate genes was associated with PTSD symptom severity. Genomewide analyses revealed CpG sites spanning BRSK1, LCN8, NFG and DOCK2 genes were associated with PTSD symptom severity. We replicated the findings of DOCK2 in an independent cohort. Pathway analysis revealed that among the associated genes, genes within actin cytoskeleton and focal adhesion molecular pathways were enriched.

Conclusion

These data highlight the role of DNA methylation as biomarkers of PTSD. The results support the role of previous candidates and uncover novel genes associated with PTSD, such as DOCK2. This study contributes to our understanding of the biological underpinnings of PTSD.
Dopamine plasma clearance is increased in piglets compared to neonates during continuous dopamine infusion
Authors: Rasmussen Martin B. , Gramsbergen Jan Bert , Eriksen Vibeke R. , Greisen Gorm
Published: August 2017

Aim

Piglets models have often been used to study the effects of dopamine infusion on hypotension in neonates. However, piglets need higher doses of dopamine than neonates to increase blood pressure. We investigated whether this difference was due to interspecific difference in dopamine pharmacokinetics.

Methods

Arterial blood samples were drawn from six neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of Copenhagen University Hospital and 20 newborn piglets during continuous dopamine infusion. Furthermore, to estimate the piglet plasma dopamine half‐life, blood samples were drawn at 2.5‐minute intervals after the dopamine infusion was discontinued. The plasma dopamine content was analysed by high‐performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection.

Results

The dopamine displayed first‐order kinetics in piglets and had a half‐life of 2.5 minutes, while the median plasma clearance was 627.9 mL/kg/minute (interquartile range 452.6–1914.4). Both piglets and neonates showed large interindividual variations in plasma clearance, but the median tended to be lower in neonates (384.9, interquartile range 114.2–480.2 mL/kg/minute).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that pharmacokinetic differences may explain the interspecific difference in required doses of dopamine infusion to increase blood pressure. This is important when translating the results obtained in piglet models to treating neonatal hypotension with dopamine.
Photodynamic therapy is more effective than imiquimod for actinic keratosis in organ transplant recipients: a randomized intraindividual controlled trial
Authors: Togsverd-Bo K. , Halldin C. , Sandberg C. , Gonzalez H. , Wennberg A.M. , Sørensen S.S. , Wulf H.C. , Hædersdal M.
Published: August 2017

Background

Actinic keratoses (AKs) in solid organ transplant recipients (OTRs) are difficult-to-treat premalignancies and comparison of topical therapies is therefore warranted.

Objectives

In an intraindividual study to compare the efficacy and safety of field treatment with methyl aminolaevulinate photodynamic therapy (MAL-PDT) and imiquimod (IMIQ) for AKs in OTRs.

Methods

OTRs (n = 35) with 572 AKs (grade I–III) in two similar areas on the face, scalp, dorsal hands or forearms were included. All patients received one MAL-PDT and one IMIQ session (three applications per week for 4 weeks) in each study area according to randomization. Treatments were repeated after 2 months (IMIQ) and 3 months (PDT) in skin with incomplete AK response. Outcome measures were complete lesion response (CR), skin reactions, laboratory results and treatment preference.

Results

The majority of study areas received two treatment sessions (PDT n = 25 patients; IMIQ n = 29 patients). At 3 months after two treatments, skin treated with PDT achieved a higher rate of CR (AK I–III median 78%; range 50–100) compared with IMIQ-treated skin areas (median 61%, range 33–100; P < 0·001). Fewer emergent AKs were seen in PDT-treated skin vs. IMIQ-treated skin (0·7 vs. 1·5 AKs, P = 0·04). Patients developed more intense inflammatory skin reactions following PDT, which resolved more rapidly compared with IMIQ (median 10 days vs. 18 days, P < 0·01). Patient preference (P = 0·47) and cosmesis (P > 0·30) were similar for PDT and IMIQ.

Conclusions

Compared with IMIQ, PDT treatment obtained a higher rate of AK clearance at 3-month follow-up and achieved shorter-lasting, but more intense, short-term skin reactions.
Multiple aspects of high school students’ strategic processing on reading outcomes: The role of quantity, quality, and conjunctive strategy use
Authors: Parkinson Meghan M. , Dinsmore Daniel L.
Published: August 2017

Background

While the literature on strategy use is relatively mature, measures of strategy use overwhelmingly measure only one aspect of that use, frequency, when relating that strategy use to performance outcomes. While this might be one important attribute of strategy use, there is increasing evidence that quality and conditional use of cognitive and metacognitive strategies may also be important.

Aims

This study examines how multiple aspects of strategy use, namely frequency, quality, and conjunctive use of strategies, influence task performance on both well‐ and ill‐structured task outcomes in addition to other concomitant variables that may interact with strategic processing during reading.

Sample

The sample consisted of 21 high school students enrolled in an upper‐level biology class in a suburban school in the north‐eastern United States.

Methods

These participants completed measures of prior knowledge and interest, then read either an expository or persuasive text while thinking aloud. They then completed a passage recall and open‐ended response following passage completion.

Results

In general, quantity was not positively related to the study outcomes and was negatively related to one of them. Quality of strategy use, on the other hand, was consistently related to positive reading outcomes. The influence of knowledge and interest in terms of strategies is also discussed as well as six cases which illustrate the relation of aspects of strategy use and the other concomitant variables.

Conclusions

Evaluating strategy use by solely examining the frequency of strategy use did not explain differences in task performance as well as evaluating the quality and conjunctive use of strategies. Further, important relations between prior knowledge, interest, and the task outcomes appeared to be mediated and moderated by the aspects of strategy use investigated.
Evaluation of a needle disinfectant technique to reduce infection‐related hospitalisation after transrectal prostate biopsy
Authors: Auffenberg Gregory B. , Qi Ji , Gao Yuqing , Miller David C. , Ye Zaojun , Brachulis Andrew , Linsell Susan , Gandhi Tejal N. , Kraklau David , Montie James E. , Ghani Khurshid R. ,   the Michigan Urological Surgery Improvement Collaborative
Published: August 2017

Objectives

To determine whether a needle disinfectant step during transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS)‐guided prostate biopsy is associated with lower rates of infection‐related hospitalisation.

Patients and Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of all TRUS‐guided prostate biopsies taken across the Michigan Urological Surgery Improvement Collaborative (MUSIC) from January 2012 to March 2015. Natural variation in technique allowed us to evaluate for differences in infection‐related hospitalisations based on whether or not a needle disinfectant technique was used. The disinfectant technique was an intra‐procedural step to cleanse the biopsy needle with antibacterial solution after each core was sampled (i.e., 10% formalin or 70% isopropyl alcohol). After grouping biopsies according to whether or not the procedure included a needle disinfectant step, we compared the rate of infection‐related hospitalisations within 30 days of biopsy. Generalised estimating equation models were fit to adjust for potential confounders.

Results

During the evaluated period, 17 954 TRUS‐guided prostate biopsies were taken with 5 321 (29.6%) including a disinfectant step. The observed rate of infection‐related hospitalisation was lower when a disinfectant technique was used during biopsy (0.60% vs 0.90%; P = 0.04). After accounting for differences between groups the adjusted hospitalisation rate in the disinfectant group was 0.85% vs 1.12% in the no disinfectant group (adjusted odds ratio 0.76, 95% confidence interval 0.50–1.15; P = 0.19).

Conclusions

In this observational analysis, hospitalisations for infectious complications were less common when the TRUS‐guided prostate biopsy included a needle disinfection step. However, after adjusting for potential confounders the effect of needle disinfection was not statistically significant. Prospective evaluation is warranted to determine if this step provides a scalable and effective method to minimise infectious complications.
Endocrine disruption in aquatic systems: up‐scaling research to address ecological consequences
Authors: Windsor Fredric M. , Ormerod Steve J. , Tyler Charles R.
Published: August 2017

Endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can alter biological function in organisms at environmentally relevant concentrations and are a significant threat to aquatic biodiversity, but there is little understanding of exposure consequences for populations, communities and ecosystems. The pervasive nature of EDCs within aquatic environments and their multiple sub‐lethal effects make assessments of their impact especially important but also highly challenging. Herein, we review the data on EDC effects in aquatic systems focusing on studies assessing populations and ecosystems, and including how biotic and abiotic processes may affect, and be affected by, responses to EDCs. Recent research indicates a significant influence of behavioural responses (e.g. enhancing feeding rates), transgenerational effects and trophic cascades in the ecological consequences of EDC exposure. In addition, interactions between EDCs and other chemical, physical and biological factors generate uncertainty in our understanding of the ecological effects of EDCs within aquatic ecosystems. We illustrate how effect thresholds for EDCs generated from individual‐based experimental bioassays of the types commonly applied using chemical test guidelines [e.g. Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD)] may not necessarily reflect the hazards associated with endocrine disruption. We argue that improved risk assessment for EDCs in aquatic ecosystems urgently requires more ecologically oriented research as well as field‐based assessments at population‐, community‐ and food‐web levels.
Matters of Scale: Sociology in and for a Complex World
Authors: Pyyhtinen Olli
Published: August 2017

The article proposes that if sociology is to make sense of a world that is ever more complex and complicated, it is important to reconsider the scale(s) of our relations and actions. Instead of assuming a nested vertical hierarchy of the micro to macro binary, scale should be treated not only as multiple, but also as something produced and sustained in practice. Coming to grips with the complex world, we are living in also necessitates attending to the conduits and connections between various sites, fields, and terrains to which our lives are entangled. The article concludes with a note on the marginalization of sociology from public discussions, and it argues that it is possibly by attending to ambiguity and to the unfinished making of our contemporary world that sociology might have the most to give to discussions about the economy, about the future of humanity, and how to organize society.

Cet article suggère que si la sociologie doit nous éclairer sur le sens d'un monde de plus en plus complexe, il est important de revoir l’échelle de nos relations et actions. Au lieu d'assumer une hiérarchie verticale de la dualité micro‐macro, cette étendue doit être traitée non seulement comme multiple, mais aussi comme une chose produite et soutenue par la pratique. Pour faire face à la complexité du monde dans lequel nous vivons, il faut aussi de s'occuper des conduits et connections entre des sites divers, des champs, et des terrains dans lesquels nos vies se déroulent. Cet article conclut avec une note sur la marginalisation de la sociologie dans les discussions publiques ; et il défend l'idée que c'est possiblement en appréhendant l'ambiguïté et la construction incomplète de notre monde contemporain que la sociologie peut être la plus fructueuse en termes de discussions portant sur l’économie, le futur de l'humanité, et l'organisation de la société.
“Stuck in the Middle with You?” Supervisory Level and Anger about Work
Authors: Magee William , Upenieks Laura
Published: August 2017

Although sociologists have long been interested in the stratification of emotions, the occupational stratification of anger has been investigated in only a few general population studies. Through analyses of data representative of workers in Toronto, we evaluate the hypothesis that workplace hierarchical position, defined by supervisory level, has an inverted u‐shaped association with the frequency of anger about work. We also evaluate the more specific hypothesis that the difference in work‐related anger between front‐line supervisors and nonsupervisory workers will be relatively larger among workers in the commodified services sector than other sectors. Results are generally consistent with our hypotheses. We find that both front‐line supervisors in the commodified services sector, and secondary supervisors in all employment sectors, report more frequent anger about work than do nonsupervisory workers. In contrast, higher level supervisors report anger about work at about the same frequency as nonsupervisory workers. These associations are only slightly reduced by controls for work stress and stressors. We discuss how supervisory relations might explain differences in anger about work among workers at different levels in organizational hierarchies.
Precarity in the Nonprofit Employment Services Sector
Authors: Fanelli Carlo , Rudman Debbie Laliberté , Aldrich Rebecca M.
Published: August 2017

Drawing on interview and focus group data, this article explores research undertaken as part of a larger research project exploring precarity in the nonprofit employment services sector in a mid‐sized Canadian city. We critically survey major legislative changes to Canadian employment and income security policies and programs, including the restructuring of work and labor relations, growth of performance‐based contracting‐out, erosion of intergovernmental transfers, worker stress, and emotional tolls. Our study's results demonstrate how employment precarity in the nonprofit employment services sector is amplified by top‐down and centralized relationships with funding partners and policymaking divorced from the employment experiences of frontline staff. We make the case that it is important to work against rising workplace precarity to strengthen organizational and workplace conditions, as well as build environments more supportive of optimal employment support services.

En se fondant sur des entretiens et des données découlant de groupes témoins, cet article présente des explorations entreprises dans une recherche plus large étudiant la précarité dans le secteur des emplois de service dans une ville canadienne de taille moyenne. Nous faisons une revue critique de changements importants intervenus dans la législation portant sur l'emploi au Canada et les politiques et programmes de la sécurité du revenu, incluant la restructuration du travail et des relations de travail, l'augmentation de la privatisation se fondant sur la performance, la diminution des transferts intergouvernementaux, le stress au travail et les conséquences émotionnelles. Les résultats de notre recherche démontrent comment la précarité de l'emploi dans les secteurs des services à but non lucratif est amplifiée par des relations allant du haut vers le bas et centralisée avec des partenaires et des politiques séparés de l'expérience des travailleurs sur le terrain. Nous démontrons qu'il est important de travailler contre la précarisation en renforçant les conditions organisationnelles et de travail, tout en construisant des environnements favorisant une offre de services de l'emploi optimaux.
The participation of parents of disabled children and young people in health and social care decisions
Authors: McNeilly P. , Macdonald G. , Kelly B.
Published: August 2017

Background

There is widespread acceptance that parents should be fully involved in decisions about their son or daughter's health and social care. This is reflected in partnership models of practice as well as local and national policy across the United Kingdom. Previous research indicates that parents' experiences of decision making with professionals are mixed.

Aim

The research reported here aimed to explore parents' experiences of participating in decisions made with professionals about their disabled son or daughter's care.

Design

This research used mixed methods including survey methodology and qualitative in depth interviews.

Setting and participants

The research was conducted in one Trust in Northern Ireland. Participants were 77 parents of children and young people with a range of impairments aged between 3 and 28 years.

Results

Three themes emerged from the data: taking the lead, not knowing, and getting the balance right. Parents wanted to be involved in all aspects of decision making. Although parents reported many examples of good practice, there were also times when they did not feel listened to or did not have enough information to inform decisions.

Discussion and conclusion

Parents in this research recounted positive as well as negative experiences. Parents took on a protective role when decisions were made about their son or daughter and at times, reported the need to “fight” for their child. The provision of information remains problematic for these families, and at times, this created a barrier to parents' participation in decision making. Partnership approaches to care that recognize parents' expertise are particularly important to parents when decisions are made with professionals.
Occupational contact urticaria and protein contact dermatitis: causes and concomitant airway diseases
Authors: Helaskoski Eva , Suojalehto Hille , Kuuliala Outi , Aalto‐Korte Kristiina
Published: August 2017

Background

Contact urticaria (CU) and protein contact dermatitis (PCD) are mainly induced by an immediate, IgE‐mediated immunological mechanism. Immediate sensitization is also linked to asthma and/or allergic rhinitis.

Objectives

To report causes of work‐induced CU and PCD, and to evaluate the occurrence of concomitant airway diseases.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the patient files of cases diagnosed with CU or PCD at the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health during 1995–2011. We obtained data on occupation, exposures, clinical and immunological test results, and diagnosed occupational skin and respiratory diseases.

Results

Altogether, 291 cases of occupational CU or PCD were diagnosed during the study period. The most common causes were flour, cow dander, natural rubber latex and acid anhydrides. Concomitant occupational asthma caused by the same agent as the skin disease was detected in 60 patients (21%), and occupational rhinitis was detected in 111 patients (38%).

Conclusions

Almost half of the patients (46%) with occupational CU and PCD had concomitant occupational airway disease. Patients with CU/PCD should always be asked about respiratory symptoms, and preventive measures at the workplace should include protection of both the skin and the airways.
Are metals involved in tattoo‐related hypersensitivity reactions? A case report
Authors: de Cuyper Christa , Lodewick Evelyne , Schreiver Ines , Hesse Bernhard , Seim Christian , Castillo‐Michel Hiram , Laux Peter , Luch Andreas
Published: August 2017

Background

Allergic reactions to tattoos are not uncommon. However, identification of the culprit allergen(s) remains challenging.

Objectives

We present a patient with papulo‐nodular infiltration of 20‐year‐old tattoos associated with systemic symptoms that disappeared within a week after surgical removal of metal osteosynthesis implants from his spine. We aimed to explore the causal relationship between the metal implants and the patient's clinical presentation.

Methods

Metal implants and a skin biopsy of a reactive tattoo were analysed for elemental contents by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and synchrotron‐based X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy.

Results

Nickel (Ni) and chromium (Cr) as well as high levels of titanium (Ti) and aluminium were detected in both the skin biopsy and the implants. XRF analyses identified Cr(III), with Cr(VI) being absent. Patch testing gave negative results for Ni and Cr. However, patch tests with an extract of the implants and metallic Ti on the tattooed skin evoked flare‐up of the symptoms.

Conclusion

The patient's hypersensitivity reaction and its spontaneous remission after removal of the implants indicate that Ti, possibly along with some of the other metals detected, could have played a major role in this particular case of tattoo‐related allergy.
SOCIAL ANIMAL HOUSE: THE ECONOMIC AND ACADEMIC CONSEQUENCES OF FRATERNITY MEMBERSHIP
Authors: Mara Jack , Davis Lewis , Schmidt Stephen
Published: August 2017

We exploit changes in the residential and social environment on campus to identify the economic and academic consequences of fraternity membership at a small Northeastern college. Our estimates suggest that these consequences are large, with fraternity membership lowering student grade point average by approximately 0.25 points on the traditional 4‐point scale, but raising future income by approximately 36%, for those students whose decision about membership is affected by changes in the environment. These results suggest that fraternity membership causally produces large gains in social capital, which more than outweigh its negative effects on human capital for potential members. Alcohol‐related behavior does not explain much of the effects of fraternity membership on either the human capital or social capital effects. These findings suggest that college administrators face significant trade‐offs when crafting policies related to Greek life on campus. (JEL I23, J24, I12)
Reaction time can be measured during voluntary contractions with electrode array
Authors: Le Mansec Y. , Nordez A. , Dorel S. , Jubeau M.
Published: August 2017

Reaction time (RT) is classically divided into premotor time (PMT) and electromechanical delay (EMD). However, the determination of the onset of electromyographic activity (EMG) during voluntary contraction remains questionable. In addition, the reliability of RT, PMT and EMD needs to be determined. Twelve participants performed two sessions of RT trials, separated by 5 min. RT was evaluated during voluntary isometric contractions of the elbow flexors, i.e., time between a light signal (stimulus) and the onset of the mechanical response. To assess EMD, an electrode array (64 channels) was used to accurately detect the onset of EMG activity. PMT represented the major part of the RT (~88%). Coefficients of variation were reasonably satisfactory for all parameters (range: 11·9‐13·4%). The use of electrode array appears to be a relevant method to measure EMD. Moreover, sessions based on two trials are reliable enough to detect changes in RT components.
Benign and malignant hybrid adnexal tumors in a patient with epidermodysplasia verruciformis
Authors: Ho Jonathan D. , Kam Sarah A. , Al‐Haseni Ali , Markova Alina , Sahni Debjani , Lam Christina , Goldberg Lynne J. , Bhawan Jag
Published: August 2017

Epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV) is a genodermatosis characterized by overgrowth of flat warts, pityriasis versicolor‐like lesions and an increased propensity for developing cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas due to abnormal susceptibility to infection with beta‐human papilloma viruses. Adnexal tumors are not typically associated with EV. Here we report a spectrum of hybrid adnexal tumors with divergent eccrine and folliculosebaceous differentiation, and cytologic features ranging from benign to frankly atypical, in a patient with inherited EV.
Nitrogen fixation by Alnus species boosts soil nitrous oxide emissions
Authors: Bühlmann T. , Caprez R. , Hiltbrunner E. , Körner C. , Niklaus P. A.
Published: August 2017

The aim of this study was to assess how higher soil temperatures and increased nitrogen (N) availability, mediated by the N2 fixation of different Alnus species, affect soil nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions. We measured rates of N2O emission in situ under non‐N2‐fixing tree species or grassland (controls) and under Alnus species by the closed chamber technique along a temperature gradient of 5.7 K from the lowlands to the upper montane belt in Switzerland. Similar soil conditions and representative tree and bush taxa at a given elevation were a key prerequisite for the site selection. Across the 12 test plots, and irrespective of the elevation, N2O emissions were on average 12‐fold larger in Alnus stands than in non‐N2‐fixing vegetation. The mean emission was 1.3 ± 0.2 kg N2O‐N ha−1 under Alnus and 0.1 ± 0.1 kg N2O‐N ha−1 under non‐N2‐fixing vegetation from mid‐June to mid‐October. The largest rates of emission were observed in Alnus viridis (Chaix.) D.C. shrubland at 1680 m a.s.l. (mid‐elevation), with a seasonal emission of 4.2 ± 0.5 kg N2O‐N ha−1. Differences in soil temperature along the elevation gradient did not affect the release of N2O in non‐N2‐fixing vegetation or across the different Alnus species. We conclude that larger N availability through N2 fixation increases N2O emissions in ecosystems even without intense agricultural management. The fast expansion of Alnus viridis across the Alps has been documented mainly in the context of ‘ecological consequences’. Here, we provide evidence that Alnus viridis also adds substantially to greenhouse gas emissions.

Highlights

We evaluated soil N2O emissions under Alnus and non‐fixing species along a temperature gradient of 5.7 K.

Alnus stands emitted on average 12‐fold more N2O than non‐N2‐fixing vegetation.

Neither short‐ nor long‐term variation in temperature affected N2O emissions in Alnus stands.

During the growing season, soil under Alnus viridis emitted 1.5% of the annual Swiss N2O emission.
Decoupled responses of soil bacteria and their invertebrate consumer to warming, but not freeze–thaw cycles, in the Antarctic Dry Valleys
Authors: Knox Matthew A. , Andriuzzi Walter S. , Buelow Heather N. , Takacs‐Vesbach Cristina , Adams Byron J. , Wall Diana H.
Published: August 2017

Altered temperature profiles resulting in increased warming and freeze–thaw cycle (FTC) frequency pose great ecological challenges to organisms in alpine and polar ecosystems. We performed a laboratory microcosm experiment to investigate how temperature variability affects soil bacterial cell numbers, and abundance and traits of soil microfauna (the microbivorous nematode Scottnema lindsayae) from McMurdo Dry Valleys, Antarctica. FTCs and constant freezing shifted nematode body size distribution towards large individuals, driven by higher mortality among smaller individuals. FTCs reduced both bacterial and nematode abundance, but bacterial cell numbers also declined under warming, demonstrating decoupled consumer–prey responses. We predict that higher occurrence of FTCs in cold ecosystems will select for large body size within soil microinvertebrates and overall reduce their abundance. In contrast, warm temperatures without FTCs could lead to divergent responses in soil bacteria and their microinvertebrate consumers, potentially affecting energy and nutrient transfer rates in soil food webs of cold ecosystems.
Long‐term ecological monitoring and institutional memories
Authors: Lamb David
Published: August 2017

Many important ecological management issues can only be addressed by long‐term monitoring or through studies carried out over extended periods. But such studies require institutional settings that ensure funding is sustained and that data arising from these studies are securely managed. Recent experience suggests both are difficult to achieve. This is because management agencies and research bodies are periodically restructured, especially in recent years. This has often led to long‐term work being terminated. But there is anecdotal evidence that the data collected in at least some of these studies are not always lost. Instead, it can remain stored in the back rooms of agencies or in the personal files of former staff. Such data are clearly at risk; with time fewer people remain aware of the work or of the existence of data that were collected, thereby increasing the likelihood that the information will eventually disappear. This seems a waste. Securing funds for any long‐term ecological study is always likely to be difficult, and many of these previous long‐term studies are likely to be relevant to some of our present management problems. One approach to taking advantage of these earlier studies would be to ask scientific and professional associations to survey their older members to identify relevant previous investigations. But any re‐establishment of former studies will require the creation of new institutional arrangements, more robust institutional memories and sufficient funds that are able to sustain any resurrected investigations into the future.