bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
All that Glitters is not Gold. The Political Economy of Randomized Evaluations in Development
Authors: Bédécarrats Florent , Guérin Isabelle , Roubaud François 
Published: December 2017

ABSTRACTRandomized control trials (RCTs) have a narrow scope, restricted to basic intervention schemes. Experimental designs also display specific biases and political uses when implemented in the real world. Despite these limitations, the method has been advertised as the gold standard to evaluate development policies. This article adopts a political economy approach to explore this paradox. It argues that the success of RCTs is driven mainly by a new scientific business model based on a mix of simplicity and mathematical rigour, media and donor appeal, and academic and financial returns. This in turn meets current interests and preferences in the academic world and the donor community.
The impact of host genetic diversity on virus evolution and emergence
Authors: Rodríguez‐Nevado Cristina , Lam Tommy T‐Y , Holmes Edward C. , Pagán Israel 
Published: December 2017

AbstractAccumulating evidence indicates that biodiversity has an important impact on parasite evolution and emergence. The vast majority of studies in this area have only considered the diversity of species within an environment as an overall measure of biodiversity, overlooking the role of genetic diversity within a particular host species. Although theoretical models propose that host genetic diversity in part shapes that of the infecting parasite population, and hence modulates the risk of parasite emergence, this effect has seldom been tested empirically. Using Rabies virus (RABV) as a model parasite, we provide evidence that greater host genetic diversity increases both parasite genetic diversity and the likelihood of a host being a donor in RABV cross‐species transmission events. We conclude that host genetic diversity may be an important determinant of parasite evolution and emergence.
Surgical resection of calcinosis circumscripta in the funicular part of the nuchal ligament in the cranial cervical region of a horse
Authors: Graham R. J. T. Y. , Dixon P. M. , Haizelden N. , Morrison L. R. , Reardon R. J. M. 
Published: December 2017

SummaryThis report describes a 10‐year‐old Welsh Section D gelding presented for signs of neck stiffness that was found to have a mineralised lesion in the funicular part of the nuchal ligament overlying the dorsal aspect of the first cervical vertebra using radiography and ultrasonography. Surgical resection of the mass, including a complete removal of the adjacent nuchal ligament, resulted in improvement in the signs of neck stiffness. Histopathological examination identified the mass as calcinosis circumscripta. These lesions do not appear to have been reported at this site nor has outcome following excision of a complete section of the nuchal ligament.
Online measurement of hemodialysis adequacy using effective ionic dialysance of sodium—a review of its principles, applications, benefits, and risks
Authors: Aslam Shakil , Saggi Subodh J. , Salifu Moro , Kossmann Robert J. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractDialysis dose is an important determinant of clinical outcomes in patients with end stage renal disease on maintenance dialysis. In clinical practice dialysis dose is monitored at least monthly by urea clearance based on Urea Kinetic Modeling. Online clearance monitoring using effective ionic dialysance (EID) of sodium (Na+) is available on some hemodialysis machines. This paper reviews the background, methodology, additional applications, and potential risks associated with EID. Effective ionic dialysance provides a reliable, real‐time, noninvasive, and inexpensive measurement of dialysis dose during an ongoing hemodialysis (HD) session to allow interventions and assess the impact of these changes on clearance. Surveillance of vascular access flow rates can be used to screen for access dysfunction and refer for interventions. There is a concern that EID measurements may cause Na+ loading because of high dialysate Na+ used during these measurements, however, mathematical models, in vitro experiments, and clinical studies in patients on maintenance HD do not show any evidence of Na+ loading during EID measurements. We cannot rule out the possibility of nonosmotic Na+ accumulation in the skin because no published literature exists on this topic as it pertains to clearance measurements based on EID of Na+.
Experience of dental care, knowledge and attitudes of older immigrants in Sweden—A qualitative study
Authors: Olerud E , Hagman‐Gustavsson M‐L , Gabre P 
Published: December 2017

AbstractObjectivesKnowledge about the oral health and dental care habits of older immigrants is limited. The aim of this study was to explore dental service utilization, oral care habits, and attitudes to and knowledge about oral diseases and their prevention among older immigrants in Sweden.MethodsA qualitative research method was used, and data were collected in individual interviews to gain a deeper understanding of the immigrants′ views. Thirteen immigrants, seven women and six men, recruited from meeting places for older immigrants, participated, all aged between 59 and 88 (median 72 years). Interviews were tape‐recorded and transcribed verbatim. Eight interviews were carried out with the help of an authorized interpreter.ResultsIn the analytical process, performed using the content analysis method, meaning units were identified and condensed into codes which were labelled and grouped into subcategories and categories. The interview analysis resulted in four categories: Experiences of dental care, Attitudes, Barriers and Prevention of oral diseases. The elderly immigrants described a mix of regular and acute dental care and were often not satisfied with the outcome of the treatments. They stated that oral health was important and that they were responsible for their own teeth. Barriers to dental care were costs, language problems and lack of confidence in dental services. Daily oral hygiene routines were performed using a traditional chewing stick and/or regular toothbrush.ConclusionThe participants stated that, despite the barriers to treatment described above, they valued good oral health and visited dental services when they needed to.
Composition of gut microbiota in obese and normal‐weight Mexican school‐age children and its association with metabolic traits
Authors: López‐Contreras B. E. , Morán‐Ramos S. , Villarruel‐Vázquez R. , Macías‐Kauffer L. , Villamil‐Ramírez H. , León‐Mimila P. , Vega‐Badillo J. , Sánchez‐Muñoz F. , Llanos‐Moreno L. E. , Canizalez‐Román A. , del Río‐Navarro B. , Ibarra‐González I. , Vela‐Amieva M. , Villarreal‐Molina T. , Ochoa‐Leyva A. , Aguilar‐Salinas C. A. , Canizales‐Quinteros S. 
Published: December 2017

SummaryBackgroundChildhood obesity is a serious public health problem in Mexico. Adult gut microbiota composition has been linked to obesity, but few studies have addressed the role of gut microbiota in childhood obesity.ObjectivesThe aim of this study is to compare gut microbiota composition in obese and normal‐weight children and to associate gut microbiota profiles with amino acid serum levels and obesity‐related metabolic traits.MethodsMicrobial taxa relative abundance was determined by 16S rRNA sequencing in 67 normal‐weight and 71 obese children aged 6–12 years. Serum amino acid levels were measured by mass spectrometry. Associations between microbiota composition, metabolic parameters and amino acid serum levels were tested.ResultsNo significant differences in phyla abundances orFirmicutes/Bacteroidetesratios were observed between normal‐weight and obese children. However,Bacteroides eggerthiiabundance was significantly higher in obese children and correlated positively with body fat percentage and negatively with insoluble fibre intake. Additionally,Bacteroides plebeiusand unclassifiedChristensenellaceaeabundances were significantly higher in normal‐weight children. Abundance of both these species correlated negatively with phenylalanine serum levels, a metabolite also found to be associated with obesity in Mexican children.ConclusionsThe study identified bacterial species associated with obesity, metabolic complications and amino acid serum levels in Mexican children.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress induced LOX‐1+ CD15+ polymorphonuclear myeloid‐derived suppressor cells in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Nan Jiang , Xing Yan‐Fang , Hu Bo , Tang Jian‐Xin , Dong Hui‐Min , He Yu‐Mei , Ruan Dan‐Yun , Ye Qing‐Jian , Cai Jia‐Rong , Ma Xiao‐Kun , Chen Jie , Cai Xiu‐Rong , Lin Ze‐Xiao , Wu Xiang‐Yuan , Li Xing 
Published: December 2017

SummaryA recent study indicated that Lectin‐type oxidized LDL receptor‐1 (LOX‐1) was a distinct surface marker for human polymorphisms myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (PMN‐MDSC). The present study was aimed to investigate the existence LOX‐1 PMN‐MDSC in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. One hundred and twenty‐seven HCC patients, 10 patients with mild active chronic hepatitis B, 10 liver cirrhosis due to hepatitis B, 10 liver dysplastic node with hepatitis B and 50 health control were included. LOX‐1+ CD15+ PMN‐MDSC were significantly elevated in HCC patients compared with healthy control and patients with benign diseases. LOX‐1+ CD15+ PMN‐MDSC in circulation were positively associated with those in HCC tissues. LOX‐1+ CD15+ PMN‐MDSCs significantly reduced proliferation and IFN‐γ production of T cells with a dosage dependent manner with LOX‐1− CD15+ PMNs reached negative results. The suppression on T cell proliferation and IFN‐γ production was reversed by ROS inhibitor and Arginase inhibitor. ROS level and activity of arginase of LOX‐1 +CD15+ PMN were higher in LOX‐1+ CD15+ PMN‐MDSCs than LOX‐1− CD15+ PMNs, as well as the expression of the NADPH oxidase NOX2 and arginase I. RNA sequence revealed that LOX‐1+ CD15+ PMN‐MDSCs displayed significantly higher expression of spliced X‐box ‐binding protein 1 (sXBP1), an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress marker. ER stress inducer induced LOX‐1 expression and suppressive function for CD15+ PMN from health donor. For HCC patients, LOX‐1+ CD15+ PMN‐MDSCs were positively related to overall survival. Above all, LOX‐1+ CD15+ PMN‐MDSC were elevated in HCC patients and suppressed T cell proliferation through ROS/Arg I pathway induced by ER stress. They presented positive association with the prognosis of HCC patients.
The Baby Boomer bias: The negative impact of generational labels on older workers
Authors: Cox Cody B. , Young Friederike K. , Guardia Adrian B. , Bohmann Amy K. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractWhile generational labels (e.g., Baby Boomers) are popular in the media, few studies have explored whether using these labels leads to discrimination against older workers. Using an inbox task, we examined whether the label “Baby Boomer” led older workers to be viewed more negatively than the label “older employee” in four workplace scenarios. Data were collected from 304 management students (mean age = 30.92 years, SD = 9.21). Individuals identified as Baby Boomers were viewed more negatively across all four different scenarios and this effect was modified by social dominance orientation and power distance orientation in the hiring scenarios. Overall, our results suggest the use of generational labels such as Baby Boomers may negatively impact the workplace experiences of older workers.
Site‐specific and endothelial‐mediated dysfunction of the alveolar‐capillary barrier in response to lipopolysaccharides
Authors: Janga Harshavardhan , Cassidy Liam , Wang Fanlu , Spengler Dietmar , Oestern‐Fitschen Stefanie , Krause Martin F. , Seekamp Andreas , Tholey Andreas , Fuchs Sabine 
Published: December 2017

AbstractInfectious agents such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS) challenge the functional properties of the alveolar‐capillary barrier (ACB) in the lung. In this study, we analyse the site‐specific effects of LPS on the ACB and reveal the effects on the individual cell types and the ACB as a functional unit. Monocultures of H441 epithelial cells and co‐cultures of H441 with endothelial cells cultured on Transwells® were treated with LPS from the apical or basolateral compartment. Barrier properties were analysed by the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), by transport assays, and immunostaining and assessment of tight junctional molecules at protein level. Furthermore, pro‐inflammatory cytokines and immune‐modulatory molecules were evaluated by ELISA and semiquantitative real‐time PCR. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry‐based proteomics (LS‐MS) was used to identify proteins and effector molecules secreted by endothelial cells in response to LPS. In co‐cultures treated with LPS from the basolateral compartment, we noticed a significant reduction of TEER, increased permeability and induction of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. Conversely, apical treatment did not affect the barrier. No changes were noticed in H441 monoculture upon LPS treatment. However, LPS resulted in an increased expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines such as IL‐6 in OEC and in turn induced the reduction of TEER and an increase in SP‐A expression in H441 monoculture, and H441/OEC co‐cultures after LPS treatment from basolateral compartment. LS‐MS‐based proteomics revealed factors associated with LPS‐mediated lung injury such as ICAM‐1, VCAM‐1, Angiopoietin 2, complement factors and cathepsin S, emphasizing the role of epithelial–endothelial crosstalk in the ACB in ALI/ARDS.
Effects of Temperature and Photorepair Radiation on a Marine Ciliate Exposed to UVB Radiation
Authors: Hamsher Sarah E. , Sung Cheng Yun Tina , Sanders Robert W. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractThe influences of intensity and repeated exposure to ultraviolet‐B radiation (UVB), photoreactivating repair radiation (PRR), and temperature on the scuticociliate Parauronema acutum were explored under laboratory conditions. Population growth was negatively affected after exposure to the equivalent of one sunny summer day of ambient UVB, especially in the absence of PRR. Repeated daily exposure to UVB severely compromised ciliate survival. UVB‐exposed treatments without PRR recovered slower and reached lower final abundances than treatments receiving PRR. Reducing the daily UVB exposure approximately 25% improved ciliate recovery after exposure. In the single exposure treatments, temperature effects were not consistent, except that growth was slowest for control and treatments at the lowest temperature (15 °C). These data suggest that dark repair and/or photoprotection are present in P. acutum, but photoenzymatic repair was the more effective mechanism in reversing UVB damage. Repeated exposure treatments without PRR had zero or declining growth at all temperatures (15, 20 and 25 °C), as did those with PRR at 15 °C. Significant temperature/dose differences were identified in the repeated exposure treatments; ciliates subjected to the higher UVB intensity with PRR survived only at 25 °C, while ciliate populations under reduced UVB increased at 20 and 25 °C.
TSC1 enables plastid development under dark conditions, contributing to rice adaptation to transplantation shock
Authors: Shi Xiaoliang , Chen Sunlu , Peng Yu , Wang Yufeng , Chen Jiugeng , Hu Zhanghua , Wang Baohe , Li Aihong , Chao Daiyin , Li Yuhong , Teng Sheng 
Published: December 2017

AbstractSince its domestication from wild rice thousands of years ago, rice has been cultivated largely through transplantation. During transplantation from the nursery to the paddy field, rice seedlings experience transplantation shock which affects their physiology and production. However, the mechanisms underlying transplantation shock and rice adaptation to this shock are largely unknown. Here, we isolated a transplant‐sensitive chloroplast‐deficient (tsc1) rice mutant that produces albino leaves after transplantation. Blocking light from reaching the juvenile leaves and leaf primordia caused chloroplast deficiencies in transplanted tsc1 seedlings. TSC1 encodes a noncanonical adenosine triphosphate‐binding cassette (ABC) transporter homologous to AtNAP14 and is of cyanobacterial origin. We demonstrate that TSC1 controls plastid development in rice under dark conditions, and functions independently of light signaling. However, light rescued the tsc1 mutant phenotype in a spectrum‐independent manner. TSC1 was upregulated following transplantation, and modulated the iron and copper levels, thereby regulating prolamellar body formation during the early P4 stage of leaf development. Therefore, TSC1 is indispensable for plastid development in the absence of light, and contributes to adaptation to transplantation shock. Our study provides insight into the regulation of plastid development and establishes a framework for improving recovery from transplantation shock in rice.
Navigation waterway for Lake Nasser/Nubia on the Nile River
Authors: El‐Manadely Mohamed Sh. , Aziz Medhat S. , Negm Dalia A. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractThe High Aswan Dam is one of the largest dams in the world. Completion of the dam in 1970 resulted in the formation of Lake Nasser/Nubia (LNN). LNN has a highly irregular shape and dimensions. Its total length is about 500 km (335 km in Egypt, known as Lake Nasser; 165 km in Sudan, known as Lake Nubia). It has an average width of 12 km, an average depth of about 25 m and a maximum depth of 90 m. Large quantities of sediment are deposited in the lake, which complicates accurate knowledge of its navigational routes. Moreover, the sediment deposition and lowering of water levels has resulted in the creation of shallow areas that navigation bottlenecks. Furthermore, this problem is expected to increase in the future because of climate change impacts, and the effects of upper Nile River projects. The objective of this study was to identify a sustainable channel for navigation purposes in Lake Nasser/Nubia. A numerical model (Delft‐3D) was used to simulate the navigation waterway along Lake Nasser/Nubia. Calibration and verification of the model for flow and sediment deposition were performed during the period of 2009–2012. There was a good agreement between the observed and modelled results for the whole domain. The model was used to evaluate the designed navigation waterway, based on different scenarios. The calculated volume of the needed dredging, based on time series for the years 2002–2006 (‘which represents a minimum flood’), was 5.94 million m3 (mcm); the calculated volume of the dredging using time series for the years 1992–1996 (‘which represents an average flood’) was 6.64 mcm; and the calculated volume of the dredging using time series for the years 1996–2000 (‘which represents a maximum flood’) was 8.46 mcm. The modelling approach proved to be a useful tool for monitoring the future navigation waterway in Lake Nasser/Nubia.
A realist review of one‐to‐one breastfeeding peer support experiments conducted in developed country settings
Authors: Trickey Heather , Thomson Gill , Grant Aimee , Sanders Julia , Mann Mala , Murphy Simon , Paranjothy Shantini 
Published: December 2017

AbstractThe World Health Organisation guidance recommends breastfeeding peer support (BFPS) as part of a strategy to improve breastfeeding rates. In the UK, BFPS is supported by National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance and a variety of models are in use. The experimental evidence for BFPS in developed countries is mixed and traditional methods of systematic review are ill‐equipped to explore heterogeneity, complexity, and context influences on effectiveness. This review aimed to enhance learning from the experimental evidence base for one‐to‐one BFPS intervention. Principles of realist review were applied to intervention case studies associated with published experimental studies. The review aimed (a) to explore heterogeneity in theoretical underpinnings and intervention design for one‐to‐one BFPS intervention; (b) inform design decisions by identifying transferable lessons developed from cross‐case comparison of context‐mechanism‐outcome relationships; and (c) inform evaluation design by identifying context‐mechanism‐outcome relationships associated with experimental conditions. Findings highlighted poor attention to intervention theory and considerable heterogeneity in BFPS intervention design. Transferable mid‐range theories to inform design emerged, which could be grouped into seven categories: (a) congruence with local infant feeding norms, (b) integration with the existing system of health care, (c) overcoming practical and emotional barriers to access, (d) ensuring friendly, competent, and proactive peers, (e) facilitating authentic peer–mother interactions, (f) motivating peers to ensure positive within‐intervention amplification, and (g) ensuring positive legacy and maintenance of gains. There is a need to integrate realist principles into evaluation design to improve our understanding of what forms of BFPS work, for whom and under what circumstances.
Acceptability of multiple micronutrient powders and iron syrup in Bihar, India
Authors: Young Melissa F. , Girard Amy Webb , Mehta Rukshan , Srikantiah Sridhar , Gosdin Lucas , Menon Purnima , Ramakrishnan Usha , Martorell Reynaldo , Avula Rasmi 
Published: December 2017

AbstractNearly two thirds of young children are anaemic in Bihar, India. Paediatric iron and folic acid syrup (IFAS) and multiple micronutrient powders (MNPs) are two evidence‐based interventions to prevent anaemia. Using a randomized crossover design, we examined the acceptability of IFAS versus MNPs for children 6–23 months. In a catchment area of 2 health centres in Bihar, health front‐line workers (FLWs) delivered either (a) IFAS twice weekly or (b) MNPs for 1 month followed by the other supplementation strategy for 1 month to the same families (NCT02610881). Household surveys were conducted at baseline (N = 100), 1 month after receiving the first intervention (1 month; N = 95), and 1 month after the second intervention (2 months; N = 93). Focus group discussions (10 FLWs) and in‐depth interviews (20 mothers) were held at 1 and 2 months. We used chi‐square and Fisher exact tests to test mothers' product preferences. Qualitative data were analysed using MaxQDA and Excel employing a thematic analysis approach. There was high adherence and acceptability for both products (>80%). There was no significant difference in preference (p < .05) on perceived benefits (39% MNPs, 40% IFAS), side effects (30% MNPs, 30% IFAS), ease of use (42% IFAS, 31% MNPs), child preference (45% IFAS, 37% MNPs), and maternal preference (44% IFAS, 34% MNPs). Mothers and FLWs indicated that the direct administration of IFAS ensured that children consumed the full dose, and MNPs intake depended on the quantity of food consumed, especially among younger children, which emphasizes the need to integrate supplementation with the promotion of optimal child feeding practices.