bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Rumen responses to dietary supplementation with cashew nut shell liquid and its cessation in sheep
Authors: Kang Sungchhang , Suzuki Ryo , Suzuki Yutaka , Koike Satoshi , Nagashima Kyo , Kobayashi Yasuo 
Published: September 2018

AbstractRumen responses to cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) were evaluated in a feeding study. Four wethers were fed a hay and concentrate diet for 4 weeks (pre‐CNSL period), and then fed the same diet supplemented with low and high levels of CNSL for 2 weeks each (L‐CNSL and H‐CNSL periods respectively). The diet was then reverted to the unsupplemented control diet for another 2 weeks (post‐CNSL period). Rumen parameters were monitored in each feeding period. CNSL, regardless of the two levels tested, did not show any adverse effects on total short chain fatty acid concentration and dry matter digestibility in the rumen. Propionate proportion increased in the H‐CNSL period, while methane production potential, acetate and butyrate proportions, viscosity, foam formation and its stability, and ammonia concentration decreased. Values of these parameters returned to those in the unsupplemented control period after cessation of CNSL supplementation. Clone library analysis of 16S rRNA genes revealed the following shifts in the H‐CNSL period. For bacteria, Firmicutes was frequently detected, while Bacteroidetes and Spirochetes were not. For archaea, Methanobrevibacter wolinii was predominant. These results indicate that CNSL could be a methane inhibitor and propionate enhancer by altering the rumen microbial community.
Long‐term outcomes and quality of life following ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract for high transsphincteric fistulas
Authors: Sun X.‐L. , Wen K. , Chen Y.‐H. , Xu Z.‐Z. , Wang X.‐P. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractAimPublished outcomes following ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) for high transsphincteric fistulas (HTFs) are equivocal probably because most trials are small and comprise mixed patient populations. The aim of this study was to highlight the long‐term efficacy of LIFT for HTFs in a large homogeneous sample and to determine the risk factors that contribute to non‐healing resulting in failure and recurrence.MethodA retrospective study was performed which assessed patients with HTFs treated by LIFT without prior loose setons from September 2012 to December 2017. Continence function was evaluated by the Wexner incontinence scale and anal manometry. Quality of life was assessed by using the faecal incontinence quality of life (FIQL) scale with four domains: lifestyle, coping, depression and embarrassment.ResultsSeventy patients with HTFs underwent 71 LIFT procedures. The primary healing rate was 81.7% with a median follow‐up duration of 16.5 (range 4.5–68) months. The healing rates of mature and immature fistulas were 83.7% and 77.3%, respectively. Two patients suffered failure with an unhealed intersphincteric wound. Recurrence occurred in 11 patients. Incontinence of flatus, present in four patients before surgery, improved postoperatively. Two patients undergoing LIFT combined with fistulotomy complained of flatus incontinence after surgery. No significant differences between preoperative and postoperative Wexner score, maximum resting pressure and maximum squeeze pressure were detected. The FIQL was improved in lifestyle, coping and depression. No risk factor for non‐healing was found.ConclusionLIFT has a promising long‐term outcome for HTFs, with negligible impairment on continence and improved quality of life.
Fourteen‐month‐old infants track the language comprehension of communicative partners
Authors: Forgács Bálint , Parise Eugenio , Csibra Gergely , Gergely György , Jacquey Lisa , Gervain Judit 
Published: September 2018

AbstractInfants employ sophisticated mechanisms to acquire their first language, including some that rely on taking the perspective of adults as speakers or listeners. When do infants first show awareness of what other people understand? We tested 14‐month‐old infants in two experiments measuring event‐related potentials. In Experiment 1, we established that infants produce the N400 effect, a brain signature of semantic violations, in a live object naming paradigm in the presence of an adult observer. In Experiment 2, we induced false beliefs about the labeled objects in the adult observer to test whether infants keep track of the other person's comprehension. The results revealed that infants reacted to the semantic incongruity heard by the other as if they encountered it themselves: they exhibited an N400‐like response, even though labels were congruous from their perspective. This finding demonstrates that infants track the linguistic understanding of social partners. A video abstract of this article can be viewed at https://youtu.be/pQUv8yFhnbk.
Geography, geopolitics, and policy in the performance of transition economies
Authors: Sachs Jeffrey D. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractThe economic performance of the transition economies as of 2015 is well explained by three variables: (1) years of membership in the EU; (2) physical distance from the heart of the EU economy, taken to be Dusseldorf; and (3) annual revenues from oil and gas production, reflecting natural resource deposits. These three factors account for around 86 percent of the variation in per capita income across the 28 transition economies, and reflect the interplay of domestic policy, geopolitics, geography and natural resources.
Does network position foster knowledge production? Evidence from international scientific collaboration network
Authors: Gui Qinchang , Liu Chengliang , Du Debin 
Published: September 2018

AbstractThere is consensus among scholars that social networks are important mechanisms of knowledge spillovers. By occupying a central and advantageous network position in the collaboration network, it is easy for actors to access intangible external resources. However, empirical studies of the impact of network structure on knowledge production remain scarce. Based on copublication data from the Web of Science database (WoS) from 2000 to 2015, we construct eleven international scientific collaboration networks and empirically estimate the impacts of multiple network properties, comprehensively measured by degree centrality, structure holes, and small‐world quotient, on national knowledge output. Empirical results based on fixed effect negative binomial models suggest positive effects of the three facets of network properties, that is, higher degree centrality, structural holes, and small‐world quotient are beneficial for facilitating and improving national knowledge production, which in turn encourages international academic collaboration.
Association of obstructive sleep apnoea with acute severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbation: a population‐based study
Authors: Hirayama Atsushi , Goto Tadahiro , Faridi Mohammad K. , Camargo Carlos A. , Hasegawa Kohei 
Published: September 2018

AbstractLittle is known about the association of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) with the severity of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). This retrospective cohort study investigated the association of coexistent OSA with acute severity markers (i.e. invasive positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) use and hospital length of stay (LOS)) among adults hospitalised for AECOPD. Patients with coexistent OSA had a significantly higher risk of IPPV use and prolonged hospital LOS compared to those without OSA.
Variation in the incidence and timing of diagnosis of hospital‐associated venous thromboembolism using linked administrative data
Authors: Stubbs Joanne M. , Assareh Hassan , Curnow Jennifer , Hitos Kerry , Achat Helen M. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractVenous thromboembolism (VTE) is a potentially preventable adverse effect of hospitalisation. Inter‐hospital variation in the incidence of hospital‐associated VTE (HA‐VTE) and timing of diagnosis (in‐hospital or post‐discharge) in New South Wales public hospitals were examined. Large variations in incidence (22% risk difference) and post‐discharge diagnosis (115% odds difference) were evident after adjustment for case mix, which only explained 59% and 32% of inter‐hospital variation respectively. The need for improved compliance with best practice guidelines is reinforced.
Constructing a grounded theory of critical illness survivorship: The dualistic worlds of survivors and family members
Authors: Page Pamela , Simpson Alan , Reynolds Lisa 
Published: September 2018

AbstractAim of the studyTo understand the critical illness trajectory from patient and relative perspectives.BackgroundIn the context of increasing survivorship from critical illness, it is important to enhance our understanding of the subjective experience of survivors and their families. The need to consider the legacy of critical care beyond physiological survival is imperative.MethodsUsing a constructivist grounded theory methodology, in‐depth interviews were undertaken with survivors of critical illness (n = 16) and family members (n = 15). Constant comparative analysis and data collection occurring concurrently with theoretical sampling commencing from the outset.EQUATORguidelines for qualitative research (COREQ) applied.FindingsSurvivors of critical illness invariably experienced vivid, hallucinatory experiences which placed them in a different world or liminal space. The core difficulty can be summarised as follows: Survivors have little recall of the factual events of their critical illness but relatives have lived the whole event in a very real and ingraining manner. This can result in family members and survivors experiencing different versions of the critical illness episode.ConclusionSurvivors of critical illness, together with family members, experience challenges when endeavouring to readjust to life post critical care. This study has identified a middle range theory of dualistic worlds between and within the survivor and family member experiences. Exploring the dynamic interplay between intrapersonal, interpersonal and societal factors has provided theoretical insights with practice implications in relation to surviving critical illness.Relevance to clinical practiceThe findings from this study highlight the need for a rehabilitation infrastructure following critical illness to support the existingUKnational guidance, ensuring the individual and holistic needs of survivors and their families are met. Conversations with survivors and their families around critical illness survivorship are frequently absent and needed early in the recovery period.
Folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine in smoking‐exposed pregnant women: A systematic review
Authors: Tuenter Annelies , Bautista Nino Paula K. , Vitezova Anna , Pantavos Athanasios , Bramer Wichor M. , Franco Oscar H. , Felix Janine F. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractSmoking exposure is associated with pregnancy complications, as are levels of folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine. In nonpregnant adults, smoking exposure is associated negatively with folate and vitamin B12 levels and positively with homocysteine levels. A complete overview of the literature on this topic in pregnant women is lacking. To evaluate evidence of associations of maternal smoking exposure during pregnancy and levels of folate, homocysteine, and vitamin B12 in pregnancy and in cord blood, we searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane, Scopus, Web of Science, and reference lists of relevant studies until August 2017. We selected studies in pregnant women describing the association of passive or active smoking and levels of folate, homocysteine, and/or vitamin B12. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers. We included 32 studies of 2,015 identified references with a total of 37,822 participants and more than 6,000 smokers. Twenty‐eight studies measured folate, 14 measured vitamin B12, and 13 measured homocysteine. Nineteen out of 28 studies assessing folate reported significantly lower levels in pregnant women exposed to smoking compared with those unexposed. Vitamin B12 levels were lower in smoking mothers in eight out of 14 studies. Homocysteine levels tended to be higher in mothers exposed to smoking. Smoking exposure during pregnancy is generally associated with lower folate and vitamin B12 levels and higher homocysteine levels. This may help raise further awareness about the consequences of smoking and the need to encourage stopping smoking in all, especially in pregnant women.
Cyberlindnera fabianii fungaemia outbreak in preterm neonates in Kuwait and literature review
Authors: Al‐Sweih Noura , Ahmad Suhail , Khan Seema , Joseph Leena , Asadzadeh Mohammad , Khan Ziauddin 
Published: September 2018

SummaryBackgroundCyberlindnera fabianii has rarely been reported as a human pathogen. Here, we describe an outbreak of C. fabianii fungaemia involving 10 preterm neonates during a seven‐month period in Kuwait and review the published reports.MethodsBlood cultures were processed, and yeast isolates were initially identified by ID 32 C and/or VITEK 2. Molecular identification was done by PCR sequencing of internally transcribed spacer (ITS) region and D1/D2 domains of rDNA. Fingerprinting was performed with microsatellite‐based and minisatellite‐based primers to examine genetic relatedness among the isolates. Antifungal susceptibility testing of the isolates was done by Etest.FindingsAll infected neonates were preterm, received prior antibiotics and had an intravascular catheter in place. All bloodstream isolates were initially identified as Candida utilis by ID 32 C and/or VITEK 2 and showed reduced susceptibility to triazoles. PCR sequencing of rDNA identified all isolates as Cyberlindnera fabianii. Fingerprinting studies yielded identical patterns indicating clonality. One neonate died before treatment, one died during treatment, and eight neonates survived treatment with amphotericin B with/without fluconazole or caspofungin. Source of infection remained unknown despite surveillance cultures.ConclusionThe outbreak highlights emergence of C. fabianii as a neonatal pathogen and reinforces importance of molecular methods in its accurate identification.
Nursing workload and compliance with non‐pharmacological measures to prevent ventilator‐associated pneumonia: a multicentre study
Authors: Jam Rosa , Mesquida Jaume , Hernández Óscar , Sandalinas Immaculada , Turégano Concepción , Carrillo Esther , Pedragosa Rosario , Valls Josefa , Parera Ana , Ateca Begoña , Salamero Maria , Jane Roser , Oliva Joan Carles , Delgado‐Hito Pilar 
Published: September 2018

ABSTRACTBackgroundVentilator‐associated pneumonia is common and associated with high mortality. Nurses play a fundamental role in preventing ventilator‐associated pneumonia. Evidence‐based guidelines and training interventions about preventing ventilator‐associated pneumonia do not ensure compliance with recommendations.Aims and objectiveTo evaluate the impact of nursing workload on compliance with non‐pharmacological measures to prevent ventilator‐associated pneumonia.DesignA prospective observational study in two medical‐surgical adult ICUs in Spain.MethodsWe measured nurses' knowledge about preventing ventilator‐associated pneumonia through a questionnaire and workload, categorized with the Nine Equivalents of Nursing Manpower Use Score. We directly observed nurses to measure compliance with non‐pharmacological measures to prevent ventilator‐associated pneumonia.ResultsA total of 97 nurses were studied; 76 (79%) were observed. There were 327 observations (mean 4·30 observations per nurse). The questionnaire showed good baseline knowledge of preventive measures [mean score (92% ± 16%)].Nurses complied with the preventive measures in 66% ± 15% of observations; compliance ranged from 11·9% for pre‐aspiration hand washing to 99·7% for using sterile aspiration probes. Mean Nine Equivalents of Nursing Manpower Use Score for each nurse observed was 50 ± 13, without differences between centres (49 ± 14 versus 51 ± 11, p = 0·4). Overall compliance was lower in the light workload group (p = 0·02), but no significant differences in compliance between workload groups were found when each measure was analysed separately. Compliance was higher in nurses aged 31–40 years than in those aged >51 years, although workload was similar in both groups.ConclusionsCompliance with non‐pharmacological measures to prevent ventilator‐associated pneumonia varies widely; non‐compliance is not because of increased workload.Relevance to clinical practiceMost critical care nurses have good baseline knowledge of non‐pharmacological measures to prevent ventilator‐associated pneumonia. Failure to comply with these measures is probably more related with behavioural, structural and organizational aspects than with nursing workload. Interventions to improve compliance might be more effective if they focus on factors such as work climate and professionals' attitudes.
A survey evaluating the awareness of MRONJ within the Birmingham GMP community
Authors: Rahman Z. , Nayani S. , Anstey H. , Murphy M.J. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractIntroductionA number of patients are routinely prescribed antiresorptive drugs that can be associated with developing medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). When presenting to a dental setting, the majority are unaware of the small but relative risk of developing MRONJ. Prevention is currently the only evidence‐based method of reducing the incidence of MRONJ. Raising awareness of MRONJ could encourage GMPs to liaise with dental clinicians for premedication screening, preventative advice and specialist referrals.MethodsAn electronic survey consisting of 16 multiple‐choice questions, targeting GMPs and GMP trainees in Birmingham was conducted to evaluate their knowledge and awareness of MRONJ. A section for open comments was available. This was conducted between March and May 2016.Results71% of the 49 participants surveyed, were aware of bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) and 6% were aware of the change in terminology to MRONJ. 56% of participants were aware of associated medications and 11% always mentioned the risk when prescribing relevant medications. 67% would not consider seeking a dental opinion prior to commencing these medications. 75% were unaware of the clinical presentation of MRONJ and 92% were unaware of associated guidelines. Encouragingly, 78% of the participants were interested in receiving further information and training.ConclusionsThis survey highlights the limited knowledge and training that GMPs and trainees in the West Midlands have regarding MRONJ. By raising awareness of this condition through leaflets and teaching, we can educate our colleagues and also encourage a more holistic management approach to this patient cohort.
TaCOLD1 defines a new regulator of plant height in bread wheat
Authors: Dong Huixue , Yan Suli , Liu Jie , Liu Pan , Sun Jiaqiang 
Published: September 2018

SummaryPlant height is among the most important agronomic traits that influence crop yield. However, in addition to the Rht‐1 alleles, the molecular basis of plant height in bread wheat remains largely unclear. Based on wheat gene expression profiling analysis, we identify a light‐regulated gene from bread wheat, designated as TaCOLD1, whose encoding protein is homologous to cold sensor COLD1 in rice. We show that TaCOLD1 protein is localized to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and plasma membrane. Phenotypic analyses show that overexpression of a mutated form of TaCOLD1 (M187K) in bread wheat cultivar Kenong199 (Rht‐B1b) background resulted in an obvious reduction in plant height. Further, we demonstrate that the hydrophilic loop of TaCOLD1 (residues 178–296) can interact with TaGα‐7A (the α subunit of heterotrimeric G protein) protein but not TaGα‐1B, and the mutation (M187K) in TaCOLD1 remarkably enhances its interaction with TaGα‐7A. Physical interaction analyses show that the C‐terminal region of TaGα‐7A, which is lacking in the TaGα‐1B protein, is necessary for its interaction with TaCOLD1. Intriguingly, the C‐terminal region of TaGα‐7A is also physically associated with the TaDEP1 protein (an atypical Gγ subunit). Significantly, we discover that TaCOLD1 and mTaCOLD1 (M187K) can interfere with the physical association between TaGα‐7A and TaDEP1. Together, this study reveals that TaCOLD1 acts as a novel regulator of plant height through interfering with the formation of heterotrimeric G protein complex in bread wheat and is a valuable target for the engineering of wheat plant architecture.
One for all and all for one: retention of colour‐unchanged old flowers increases pollinator attraction in a hermaphroditic plant
Authors: Teixido A. L. , Duarte M. O. , Ballego‐Campos I. , Sanín D. , Cunha J. S. , Oliveira C. S. , Silveira F. A. O. 
Published: September 2018

Abstract

Long‐lived flowers increase pollen transfer rates, but these entail high water and carbon maintenance costs. The retention of pollinated and reward‐free old flowers enhances pollinator visitation to young receptive flowers by increasing floral display size. This mechanism is associated with acropetal inflorescences or changes in flower colour and openness, but the retention of unchanging solitary flowers remains overlooked.

We examined pollination‐dependent variation in floral longevity and determined stigmatic receptivity, pollen viability and pollen removal rates among flower ages in Kielmeyera regalis, a Neotropical savanna shrub. We also evaluated the effects of floral display size on pollinator visitation rates. Lastly, we determined whether old flowers are unvisited and exclusively increase pollinator attraction to young flowers through flower removal experiments.

Regardless of pollination treatment, flowers lasted fully open with no detectable physical changes for 3 days. Over time, stigmas remained receptive but >95% of pollen was removed. Pollinator visitation significantly increased with floral display size and intermediate percentages (15–30%) of newly opened flowers. Accordingly, the retention of reward‐free and unvisited old flowers increased young flower–pollinator interaction.

Our results reveal the importance of a prolonged floral longevity in increasing pollinator attraction toward newly opened receptive flowers without changes in flower colour and form. We conclude that the retention of pollinated, reward‐free and unvisited colour‐unchanged old flowers in K. regalis is a strategy that counteracts the water use costs associated with the maintenance of large flowers with increased mate opportunities in a pollen‐limited scenario.
Foreign direct investment, input prices, and host country welfare
Authors: Kao Kuo‐Feng , Chen Chin‐Sheng 
Published: September 2018

AbstractThis paper analyzes a multinational firm’s foreign direct investment decision, through either greenfield investment or cross‐border merger and acquisition, into a host country with an input monopoly that adopts either uniform pricing or discriminatory pricing. The optimal foreign entry mode could differ under each pricing policy. Under Cournot competition, firms’ technological gap and the initial local market structure are critical to the choice of foreign entry mode, whereas product substitutability is important under Bertrand competition. In the presence of foreign entry, this paper also examines the welfare effects of input price discrimination for the host country.