bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Below‐ground processes control the success of an invasive seaweed
Authors: Gribben Paul E. , Thomas Torsten , Pusceddu Antonio , Bonechi Lisa , Bianchelli Silvia , Buschi Emanuela , Nielsen Shaun , Ravaglioli Chiara , Bulleri Fabio 
Published: March 2018

Abstract

Whilst the successful establishment and spread of invasive species can be determined by above‐ground processes, results are often equivocal. Emergent research, mostly from terrestrial ecosystems, demonstrates that below‐ground processes (nutrient cycling, chemical properties) under microbial control can mediate interactions between native and invasive plants. Because microbes can control similar sediment properties in marine ecosystem that influence plant fitness, we argue that below‐ground properties should also exert strong control interactions between native and invasive marine macrophytes.

We coupled surveys of microbial communities and chemistry of sediments collected from an invasive alga (Caulerpa cylindracea), a native competitor (the seagrass Posidonia oceanica) and unvegetated sediments with a large field experiment, in which we manipulated the presence/absence of the canopies of both species to determine the effects of above‐ and below‐ground processes on the success of C. cylindracea.

Posidonia oceanica and C. cylindracea sediments have microbial communities and predicted metabolic process that reflect aerobic and anaerobic conditions, respectively. Moreover, the nutritional quantity of organic matter was higher, but quality lower in C. cylindracea sediments compared to the two native habitats. The growth of C. cylindracea fragments was equally low in the presence or absence of a P. oceanica canopy, whereas the growth of C. cylindracea was higher in the canopy removed vs. present treatment, possibly because, in the absence of a C. cylindracea canopy, fragments are released from intraspecific competition for resources.

Synthesis. Sediment/soil processes are increasingly recognized as important drivers of the success and hence impacts of invasive plants. We extended this theory to marine ecosystems and suggest biotic resistance to invasion may not always be attributable to intact canopies, but may also result from indirect effects of native macrophytes on sediment quality and microbial processes. This information may, in part, resolve why above‐ground interactions do not always explain invasive plant success and thus can be used to develop better informed management strategies.
Peer‐mediated intervention to improve play skills in children with autism spectrum disorder: A feasibility study
Authors: Kent Cally , Cordier Reinie , Joosten Annette , Wilkes‐Gillan Sarah , Bundy Anita 
Published: March 2018

Background/aimChildren with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently demonstrate impaired play skills and poor quality social interactions compared to typically developing peers. Complex interventions to improve play skills should be investigated with randomised control trials (RCT) where possible to support evidence‐based practice for occupational therapists. Prior to a RCT, multiple feasibility studies are recommended to identify barriers to the trial. The aim of this study is to adapt a complex intervention to improve play skills in children with ASD and investigate the feasibility of conducting a RCT.MethodsParticipants were 10 children with ASD paired with typically developing playmates chosen by their families. Pairs attended 10 intervention sessions involving video modelling, therapist‐ and peer‐mediation and free play. Participant numbers needed for future investigation of effectiveness were calculated and time and cost considerations were reviewed. The Test of Playfulness (ToP) was the primary outcome measure; both parent‐ and child‐report outcome measures were evaluated for appropriateness.ResultsTo determine effectiveness of the intervention 34 pairs in both control and intervention groups will be needed to conduct a RCT over an 18‐month timeframe. ToP scores showed a positive, but not statistically significant trend from pre‐ to post‐intervention. These improvements were maintained at follow‐up in both clinic and home environments. The Piers‐Harris 2 and the Parent Relationship Questionnaire were identified as appropriate secondary outcome measures; additional parent‐ and teacher‐report outcome measures are recommended for the RCT.ConclusionA RCT to investigate effectiveness of this intervention for improving play skills of children with ASD and their playmates are feasible.
The impact of a Role Emerging Placement while a student occupational therapist, on subsequent qualified employability, practice and career path
Authors: Thew Miranda , Thomas Yvonne , Briggs Michelle 
Published: March 2018

BackgroundAlthough Role Emerging Placements (REP) are now a common feature in pre‐registration occupational therapy curricula, there is a need to expand the understanding of the impact of this experience on employability, practice and career path of qualified occupational therapists.MethodA case finding online survey was used to create a purposive sample for Thematic Analysis of semi‐structured interviews with practising occupational therapists from one UK Masters’ level pre‐registration occupational therapy program.ResultsThe case finding survey (n = 19) led to recruitment of six participants to be interviewed. The qualitative findings reflected the impact of a REP experience on occupational therapists’ employability, practice and career path. The complementary features of the more traditional placement and the role emergent type of placement were considered as being useful and beneficial to qualified practice regardless of setting. However, the REP additionally, had an internal and outward impact. Internally, the therapist gains a passion for occupation‐focussed practice and builds confidence to promote both self and the profession. Outwardly, the therapist can offer extra skills in qualified practice, particularly in innovative service development and delivery, thereby offering added value for employability.ConclusionA REP experience as an occupational therapy student, can develop additional skills for qualified professional practice than traditional practice placements alone. The impact of such a placement matches with the ‘Generation Y’ traits of young adults who are now starting to emerge into training and the work place, translates well into a variety of working environments and lasts into career development. The placement model of occupation‐focussed project development and the less apprentice style learning of a REP may be influential, and could be a suitable model within traditional placements.
Adaptive evolution to a high purine and fat diet of carnivorans revealed by gut microbiomes and host genomes
Authors: Zhu Lifeng , Wu Qi , Deng Cao , Zhang Mengjie , Zhang Chenglin , Chen Hua , Lu Guoqing , Wei Fuwen 
Published: March 2018

SummaryCarnivorous members of the Carnivora reside at the apex of food chains and consume meat‐only diets, rich in purine, fats and protein. Here, we aimed to identify potential adaptive evolutionary signatures compatible with high purine and fat metabolism based on analysis of host genomes and symbiotic gut microbial metagenomes. We found that the gut microbiomes of carnivorous Carnivora (e.g., Felidae, Canidae) clustered in the same clade, and other clades comprised omnivorous and herbivorous Carnivora (e.g., badgers, bears and pandas). The relative proportions of genes encoding enzymes involved in uric acid degradation were higher in the gut microbiomes of meat‐eating carnivorans than plant‐eating species. Adaptive amino acid substitutions in two enzymes, carnitine O‐palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1A) and lipase F (LIPF), which play a role in fat digestion, were identified in Felidae‐Candidae species. Carnivorous carnivorans appear to endure diets high in purines and fats via gut microbiomic and genomic adaptations.
Development of Enriched Core Competencies for Health Services and Policy Research
Authors: Bornstein Stephen , Heritage Melissa , Chudak Amanda , Tamblyn Robyn , McMahon Meghan , Brown Adalsteinn D. 
Published: March 2018

ObjectiveTo develop an enriched set of core competencies for health services and policy research (HSPR) doctoral training that will help graduates maximize their impact across a range of academic and nonacademic work environments and roles.Data Sources/Study SettingData were obtained from multiple sources, including literature reviews, key informant interviews, stakeholder consultations, and Expert Working Group (EWG) meetings between January 2015 and March 2016. The study setting is Canada.Study DesignThe study used qualitative methods and an iterative development process with significant stakeholder engagement throughout.Data Collection/Extraction MethodsThe literature reviews, key informant interviews, existing data on graduate career trajectories, and EWG deliberations informed the identification of career profiles for HSPR graduates and the competencies required to succeed in these roles. Stakeholder consultations were held to vet, refine, and validate the competencies.Principal FindingsThe EWG reached consensus on six sectors and eight primary roles in which HSPR doctoral graduates can bring value to employers and the health system. Additionally, 10 core competencies were identified that should be included or further emphasized in the training of HSPR doctoral students to increase their preparedness and potential for impact in a variety of roles within and outside of traditional academic workplaces.ConclusionThe results offer an expanded view of potential career paths for HSPR doctoral graduates and provide recommendations for an expanded set of core competencies that will better equip graduates to maximize their impact on the health system.
Distribution of CD68‐, CD8‐, MHCI‐ and MHCII‐positive cells in the bull and ram testis and epididymis
Authors: Güney Saruhan B. , Sağsöz H. , Akbalık E. , Ketani M. A. , Erdoğan S. 
Published: March 2018

SummaryThe mammalian testis possesses a special immunological environment because of its properties of remarkable immune privilege and effective local innate immunity. The testicular immune privilege protects immunogenic germ cells from systemic immune attack, and local innate immunity is important in preventing testicular microbial infections. Thus, this study aimed to immunohistochemically demonstrate the distribution and localization of CD68‐, CD8‐, MHCI‐ and MHCII‐positive immune cells in the testes and epididymes. Negative immunoreactivity was detected in the seminiferous tubule epithelium and peritubular myoid cells of the testes upon staining in CD68, CD8 and MHC Class I. Positive CD68 immunoreaction was determined in the Sertoli cells and some Leydig cells. The detection of positive cells for CD8 clearly indicated the presence of lymphocytes. Furthermore, the staining with MHCI intensity was ascertained to vary from weak to moderate in the Sertoli and Leydig cells and connective tissue cells. MHCII‐positive immunoreactivity was determined in myoid cells and Leydig cells in the interstitial area. The epithelium of the epididymis showed positive staining for CD68 and CD8, but the stroma displayed a rather weak staining. In the ram epididymis, neither intraepithelial nor interstitial positive reaction was observed for MHCI. In the epididymis, the basal cells displayed a stronger staining for MHCII. In conclusion, these cells not only contribute to local immunity through their direct effects on the quality of fertility in males, but also contribute either directly or indirectly to immune privilege by minimizing the development of both autoimmune reactions and potentially harmful risks.
The IL‐13/periostin/IL‐24 pathway causes epidermal barrier dysfunction in allergic skin inflammation
Authors: Mitamura Y. , Nunomura S. , Nanri Y. , Ogawa M. , Yoshihara T. , Masuoka M. , Tsuji G. , Nakahara T. , Hashimoto‐Hachiya A. , Conway S. J. , Furue M. , Izuhara K. 
Published: March 2018

AbstractBackgroundBarrier dysfunction is an important feature of atopic dermatitis (AD) in which IL‐4 and IL‐13, signature type 2 cytokines, are involved. Periostin, a matricellular protein induced by IL‐4 or IL‐13, plays a crucial role in the onset of allergic skin inflammation, including barrier dysfunction. However, it remains elusive how periostin causes barrier dysfunction downstream of the IL‐13 signal.MethodsWe systematically identified periostin‐dependent expression profile using DNA microarrays. We then investigated whether IL‐24 downregulates filaggrin expression downstream of the IL‐13 signals and whether IL‐13‐induced IL‐24 expression and IL‐24‐induced downregulation of filaggrin expression are dependent on the JAK/STAT pathway. To build on the significance of in vitro findings, we investigated expression of IL‐24 and activation of STAT3 in mite‐treated mice and in AD patients.ResultsWe identified IL‐24 as an IL‐13‐induced molecule in a periostin‐dependent manner. Keratinocytes are the main IL‐24‐producing tissue‐resident cells stimulated by IL‐13 in a periostin‐dependent manner via STAT6. IL‐24 significantly downregulated filaggrin expression via STAT3, contributing to barrier dysfunction downstream of the IL‐13/periostin pathway. Wild‐type mite‐treated mice showed significantly enhanced expression of IL‐24 and activation of STAT3 in the epidermis, which disappeared in both STAT6‐deficient and periostin‐deficient mice, suggesting that these events are downstream of both STAT6 and periostin. Moreover, IL‐24 expression was enhanced in the epidermis of skin tissues taken from AD patients.ConclusionsThe IL‐13/periostin pathway induces IL‐24 production in keratinocytes, playing an important role in barrier dysfunction in AD.
Intra‐ and interobserver variability in nodule size of rectosigmoid endometriosis measured by two‐ and three‐dimensional transvaginal sonography
Authors: Egekvist Anne G. , Forman Axel , Riiskjær Mads , Kesmodel Ulrik S. , Mathiasen Mie , Seyer‐Hansen Mikkel 
Published: March 2018

AbstractIntroductionThe aim of the study was to assess the intra‐ and interobserver variability of two‐ and three‐dimensional rectosigmoid nodule size measurements by transvaginal sonography in patients with rectosigmoid endometriosis.Material and methodsIntra‐ and interobserver variability was assessed in 10 and 30 patients, respectively. Measurements in two dimensions were performed in real‐time during the scan, and three‐dimensional measurements of volume were done on a computer. Differences within and between observers were expressed in absolute units (mm) and percentage (%) of average nodule size. Coefficient of repeatability and Bland–Altman plots with limits of agreement were used to evaluate the intra‐ and interobserver variability.ResultsIntra‐ and interobserver variability in two‐dimensional sonography ranged from 11 to 14 mm (46–51%) for length, 3 to 6 mm (32–57%) for depth and 5 to 9 mm (33–58%) for width of the nodule. Results of three‐dimensional sonography, with assessment of nodule volume, showed intra‐ and interobserver variability 0.4 to 2.5 times the average nodule size.ConclusionsMeasurements of rectosigmoid endometriosis nodule size with two‐ and three‐ dimensional transvaginal sonography were associated with large intra‐ and interobserver variability. These techniques should therefore be used with caution in clinical control and research of nodule growth.
Do Votes Speak Louder than Motives? Moral Judgments and Tolerance in the 2016 Presidential Election
Authors: Huff Sarah T. , Hall Michael P. 
Published: March 2018

AbstractWhen judging a voter's decision, does that voter's reason for casting their vote influence moral and interpersonal judgments about them? In the context of the 2016 U.S. Presidential Election, past research suggests two competing predictions. First, people regularly account for an actor's intentions when forming judgments of the actor, indicating that judgments may vary according to a voter's motives. However, people are unlikely to see nuance among outgroups, especially amid divisive political partisanship, suggesting that judgments would ignore information about voters’ motives. In Study 1, results supported the first prediction, showing that both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump supporters distinguished between different voting motives when making moral and interpersonal judgments of outgroup voters. In Studies 2 and 3, when some voters’ motives became more extreme, Clinton and Trump supporters again distinguished between voting motives for outgroup and ingroup voters, respectively, albeit in a different pattern of results.
Renal protection by atorvastatin in a murine model of sickle cell nephropathy
Authors: Zahr Rima S. , Chappa Prasanthi , Yin Hong , Brown Lou A. , Ataga Kenneth I. , Archer David R. 
Published: March 2018

SummaryRecent studies have demonstrated pleiotropic effects of statins in various mouse models of kidney disease. In this study, Townes humanized sickle cell mice were treated for 8 weeks with atorvastatin at a dose of 10 mg/kg/day starting at 10 weeks of age. Treatment with atorvastatin significantly reduced albuminuria, and improved both urine concentrating ability and glomerular filtration rate. Atorvastatin also decreased markers of kidney injury and endothelial activation, and ameliorated oxidant stress in renal tissues and peripheral macrophages. Atorvastatin downregulated the expression of mRNA levels of the NADPH oxidases, Cybb (also termed Nox2) and Nox4, which are major sources of oxidant stress in the kidney. These findings highlight the pleiotropic effects of atorvastatin and suggest that it may provide beneficial effects in sickle cell nephropathy.
The Uganda version of the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI). Part I: Cross‐cultural adaptation
Authors: Kakooza‐Mwesige A. , Tumwine J. K. , Forssberg H. , Eliasson A.‐C. 
Published: March 2018

AbstractBackgroundThe Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI) was developed and standardized to measure functional performance in American children. So far, no published study has examined the use of the PEDI in sub‐Saharan Africa. This study describes the adaptation, translation, and validation process undertaken to develop a culturally relevant PEDI for Uganda (PEDI‐UG).MethodThe cross‐cultural adaptation and translation of the PEDI was performed in a series of steps. A project manager and a technical advisory group were involved in all steps of adaptation, translation, cognitive debriefing, and revision. Translation and back‐translation between English and Luganda were performed by professional translators. Cognitive debriefing of two subsequent adapted revisions was performed by a field‐testing team on a total of 75 caregivers of children aged 6 months to 7.5 years.ResultsThe PEDI‐UG was established in both English (the official language) and Luganda (a local language) and comprises 185 items. Revisions entailed deleting irrelevant items, modifying wording, inserting new items, and incorporating local examples while retaining the meaning of the original PEDI. Item statements were rephrased as questions. Seven new items were inserted and 19 items deleted. To accommodate major differences in living conditions between rural and urban areas, 10 alternative items were provided.ConclusionsThe PEDI‐UG is to be used to measure functional limitations in both clinical practice and research, in order to assess and evaluate rehabilitative procedures in children with developmental delay and disability in Uganda. In this study, we take the first step by translating and adapting the original PEDI version to the culture and life conditions in both rural and urban Uganda. In subsequent studies, the tool's psychometric properties will be examined, and the tool will be tested in children with developmental delay and disability.
Use of a metabolomic approach to non‐invasively diagnose non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Bril Fernando , Millán Laura , Kalavalapalli Srilaxmi , McPhaul Michael J. , Caulfield Michael P. , Martinez‐Arranz Ibon , Alonso Cristina , Ortiz Betes Pablo , Mato José M. , Cusi Kenneth 
Published: March 2018

AimsTo assess the utility of existing metabolomics scores to classify liver disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Materials and methodsA total of 220 patients with T2DM were recruited. Patients underwent routine laboratory tests, liver proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H‐MRS), a 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test, and liver biopsy if 1H‐MRS findings indicated non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease. A serum sample was blindly provided to OWL Metabolomics on which to run the OWLiver Care and OWLiver tests.ResultsWhen compared with liver biopsy, the OWLiver Care and OWLiver tests had a suboptimal performance in patients with T2DM (areas under the receiver‐operating characteristic [AUROC] curve both <0.70). Given the discordance of these results in this heterogeneous, multiethnic cohort compared with those of a previous report in predominantly white patients without diabetes, we examined the influence of age, ethnicity and other variables on test performance. A specific subset of patients was selected to mirror the characteristics of the population used for the development of this model (ie, white patients without T2DM). Among white patients with good glycaemic control (glycated haemoglobin <53mmol/mol [or <7%]) and without cirrhosis, the AUROC curve was significantly improved (0.79 [CI 95%: 0.68‐0.90]). Among white patients with lower insulin resistance (homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance <3) and without cirrhosis, the AUROC was even higher: 0.87 (CI 95%: 0.76‐0.97).ConclusionsThere is a great need to develop non‐invasive approaches to diagnose non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis in patients with T2DM; models originally developed for patients without diabetes cannot be directly applied to patients with T2DM.
Striatal cholinergic receptor activation causes a rapid, selective and state‐dependent rise in cortico‐striatal β activity
Authors: Pittman‐Polletta Benjamin R. , Quach Allison , Mohammed Ali I. , Romano Michael , Kondabolu Krishnakanth , Kopell Nancy J. , Han Xue , McCarthy Michelle M. 
Published: March 2018

AbstractCortico‐basal ganglia‐thalamic (CBT) β oscillations (15–30 Hz) are elevated in Parkinson's disease and correlated with movement disability. To date, no experimental paradigm outside of loss of dopamine has been able to specifically elevate β oscillations in the CBT loop. Here, we show that activation of striatal cholinergic receptors selectively increased β oscillations in mouse striatum and motor cortex. In individuals showing simultaneous β increases in both striatum and M1, β partial directed coherence (PDC) increased from striatum to M1 (but not in the reverse direction). In individuals that did not show simultaneous β increases, β PDC increased from M1 to striatum (but not in the reverse direction), and M1 was characterized by persistent β‐high frequency oscillation phase–amplitude coupling. Finally, the direction of β PDC distinguished between β sub‐bands. This suggests that (1) striatal cholinergic tone exerts state‐dependent and frequency‐selective control over CBT β power and coordination; (2) ongoing rhythmic dynamics can determine whether elevated β oscillations are expressed in striatum and M1; and (3) altered striatal cholinergic tone differentially modulates distinct β sub‐bands.