bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Fiber‐draw‐induced elongation and break‐up of particles inside the core of a silica‐based optical fiber
Authors: Vermillac M. , Lupi J.‐F. , Peters F. , Cabié M. , Vennéguès P. , Kucera C. , Neisius T. , Ballato J. , Blanc W. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractParticles in the core of optical fibers are widely studied to tailor or to improve optical properties. The analysis of nanoparticles embedded in silica‐based optical fiber allowed new observations of the evolution of amorphous particles during fiber drawing. Even at the nanoscale, competition between viscous stresses and surface tension on the particles induces elongation and even break‐up of particles during the process. Indeed, particles between 140 and 200 nm diameter inside the preform can break up in fragments with diameters down to 60 nm inside the drawn fiber. Break‐up of particles appears as a new “top‐down” strategy to produce small particles. These observations are promising for micro/nanostructured and multiphasic optical fibers.
Developmental psychopathology in the post‐genomics era – substantial challenges but reasons for hope
Authors: Halperin Jeffrey M. 
Published: February 2017

One only has to quickly look through the Table of Contents for this issue of JCPP to gain an appreciation of the ever‐increasing influence of genetic research in the field of developmental psychopathology. Among the 13 articles in this issue that follow this editorial: two employ large family and/or twin studies to provide compelling behavioral genetic findings bolstering the importance of genes in the emergence of ADHD (Chen, Brikell, Lichtenstein, Serlachius, Kuja‐Halkola, Sandin, and Larsson) and level of educational achievement in adolescents (Lewis, Asbury, and Plomin); one paper focuses on cortical development in patients with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome and its association with positive symptoms of psychosis (Radoeva, Bansal, Antshel, Fremont, Peterson, and Kates); a Commentary (Border and Keller) and Response to Commentary (Moore) debate the relative advantages and disadvantages of candidate gene versus genome‐wide approaches to detecting certain genetic markers, particularly in relation to interactions with the environment; and two more focus on the identification of endophenotypes for autism spectrum disorders which will presumably facilitate the identification of genes for this complex disorder (Jones, Venema, Earl, Lowy, and Webb; Van Eylen, Boets, Cosemans, Peeters, Steyaert, Wagemans, and Noens).
Vaccination against T‐cell epitopes of native ApoB100 reduces vascular inflammation and disease in a humanized mouse model of atherosclerosis
Authors: Gisterå A. , Hermansson A. , Strodthoff D. , Klement M. L. , Hedin U. , Fredrikson G. N. , Nilsson J. , Hansson G. K. , Ketelhuth D. F. J. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesThe T‐cell response to low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) in the vessel wall plays a critical role in atherosclerotic plaque formation and stability. In this study, we used a new translational approach to investigate epitopes from human apolipoprotein B100 (ApoB100), the protein component of LDL, which triggers T‐cell activation. We also evaluated the potential of two selected native ApoB100 epitopes to modulate atherosclerosis in human ApoB100‐transgenic Ldlr−/− (HuBL) mice.Methods and ResultsHuBL mice were immunized with human atherosclerotic plaque homogenate to boost cellular autoimmune response to tissue‐derived ApoB100 epitopes. In vitro challenge of splenocytes from immunized mice with a library of overlapping native peptides covering human ApoB100 revealed several sequences eliciting T‐cell proliferation. Of these sequences, peptide (P) 265 and P295 were predicted to bind several human leucocyte antigen (HLA) haplotypes and induced high levels of interferon (IFN)‐γ. Vaccination of HuBL mice with these peptides mounted a strong adaptive immune response to native ApoB100, including high levels of epitope‐specific plasma IgGs. Interestingly, P265 and P295 vaccines significantly decreased plaque size, reduced macrophage infiltration and increased IgG1 deposition in the plaques. Purified IgGs from vaccinated mice displayed anti‐inflammatory properties against macrophages in vitro, reducing their response to LPS in a dose‐dependent manner.ConclusionWe identified two specific epitopes from human native ApoB100 that trigger T‐cell activation and protect HuBL mice against atherosclerosis when used in a vaccine. Our data suggest that vaccination‐induced protective mechanisms may be mediated at least in part through specific antibody responses to LDL that inhibit macrophage activation.
Why do children present to emergency departments? Exploring motivators and measures of presentation appropriateness for children presenting to a paediatric emergency department
Authors: Cheek John A , Braitberg George , Craig Simon , West Adam 
Published: February 2017

AimTo compare the parental motivators and referring general practitioner's (GP's) reasons for advising emergency department (ED) attendance with the assessment of ED medical staff. To compare ED clinician opinion with other published methods that have attempted to define ‘primary care suitable' presentations to the ED.MethodsA prospective observational study and series of surveys regarding the attendance of children presenting to a single tertiary paediatric ED. Surveys were distributed to the treating ED clinician, the child's parent/guardian, and the referring GP. Results between the three groups were analysed and compared.ResultsThere were a total of 1069 presentations during the study period. Six hundred (58.4%, 95% CI 55.3–61.4%) presentations were judged as ‘ED appropriate’ by the treating ED clinician. When compared with methods used to retrospectively judge whether ED patients are considered ‘primary care suitable’, ED clinicians disagree between 22.4 and 38.8% of the time. For patients who presented directly to ED, 85.6% did so for a medical reason, whilst 32.1% did so for a GP access reason. Being referred by a GP improved the ED clinicians’ opinion of the appropriateness of the presentation (49.2 vs. 73.9%, P < 0.05).ConclusionsWe caution that many strategies attempting to ‘solve’ the issue of increasing ED attendances by paediatric patients have been driven by opinion, and a better understanding of the motivators that drive this behaviour is needed. We believe the solution to increasing utilisation of EDs by children must be a balanced approach that addresses community expectations and appropriately resources EDs.
Implicit Learning of Spatial Configuration Occurs without Eye Movement
Authors: Higuchi Yoko , Saiki Jun 
Published: February 2017

AbstractStudies have demonstrated that eye movements enhance visual memory. However, the role of eye movement in implicit learning is not clear. We investigated whether implicit learning of spatial configuration requires eye movement using the contextual cueing paradigm. Eye movements were restricted by instructing participants to maintain fixation on the center of a display during a visual search. The results demonstrated that contextual cueing occurs even without eye movements. Furthermore, contextual cueing effects were obtained more rapidly when eye movements were restricted compared to when eye movements were allowed. The findings suggest that eye movements mediate the learning progress in contextual cueing: stabilization of spatial layout representation by restriction of eye movements induces a rapid learning of configuration.
Systematic genetic dissection of PTS in Vibrio cholerae uncovers a novel glucose transporter and a limited role for PTS during infection of a mammalian host
Authors: Hayes Chelsea A. , Dalia Triana N. , Dalia Ankur B. 
Published: February 2017

SummaryA common mechanism for high affinity carbohydrate uptake in microbial species is the phosphoenolpyruvate‐dependent phosphotransferase system (PTS). This system consists of a shared component, EI, which is required for all PTS transport, and numerous carbohydrate uptake transporters. In Vibrio cholerae, there are 13 distinct PTS transporters. Due to genetic redundancy within this system, the carbohydrate specificity of each of these transporters is not currently defined. Here, using multiplex genome editing by natural transformation (MuGENT), we systematically dissect PTS transport in V. cholerae. Specifically, we generated a mutant strain that lacks all 13 PTS transporters, and from this strain, we created a panel of mutants where each expresses a single transporter. Using this panel, we have largely defined the carbohydrate specificities of each PTS transporter. In addition, this analysis uncovered a novel glucose transporter. We have further defined the mechanism of this transporter and characterized its regulation. Using our 13 PTS transporter mutant, we also provide the first clear evidence that carbohydrate transport by the PTS is not essential during infection in an infant mouse model of cholera. In summary, this study shows how multiplex genome editing can be used to rapidly dissect complex biological systems and genetic redundancy in microbial systems.
Visualization of xylem embolism by X‐ray microtomography: a direct test against hydraulic measurements
Authors: Nolf Markus , Lopez Rosana , Peters Jennifer M. R. , Flavel Richard J. , Koloadin Leah S. , Young Iain M. , Choat Brendan 
Published: February 2017

Summary

X‐ray microtomography (microCT) is becoming a valuable noninvasive tool for advancing our understanding of plant–water relations. Laboratory‐based microCT systems are becoming more affordable and provide better access than synchrotron facilities. However, some systems come at the cost of comparably lower signal quality and spatial resolution than synchrotron facilities. In this study, we evaluated laboratory‐based X‐ray microCT imaging as a tool to nondestructively analyse hydraulic vulnerability to drought‐induced embolism in a woody plant species.

We analysed the vulnerability to drought‐induced embolism of benchtop‐dehydrated Eucalyptus camaldulensis plants using microCT and hydraulic flow measurements on the same sample material, allowing us to directly compare the two methods. Additionally, we developed a quantitative procedure to improve microCT image analysis at limited resolution and accurately measure vessel lumens.

Hydraulic measurements matched closely with microCT imaging of the current‐year growth ring, with similar hydraulic conductivity and loss of conductivity due to xylem embolism. Optimized thresholding of vessel lumens during image analysis, based on a physiologically meaningful parameter (theoretical conductivity), allowed us to overcome common potential constraints of some lab‐based systems.

Our results indicate that estimates of vulnerability to embolism provided by microCT visualization agree well with those obtained from hydraulic measurements on the same sample material.
Do brachiopods show substrate‐related phenotypic variation? A case study from the Burgess Shale
Authors: Topper Timothy P. , Strotz Luke C. , Skovsted Christian B. , Holmer Lars E. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractAs sessile, benthic filter feeders, brachiopods share an intimate relationship with their chosen substrate. Individuals of Micromitra burgessensis in the Burgess Shale Formation are preserved in life position, attached to a range of hard substrates, including skeletal debris, conspecific brachiopods, sponges and enigmatic tubes. Here we investigate the phenotypic variability of M. burgessensis associated with differing substrate attachments. We apply geometric morphometrics to test for variation by plotting landmarks on the exterior of ventral and dorsal valves of M. burgessensis specimens that are preserved attached to different substrates. Using principal component, canonical variate analyses and anova, we determine that there is some variation in shape related to substrate. Canonical variate analyses, for ventral valves and dorsal valves, indicate that specimens attached to the same substrate are recognizable in shape from specimens attached to other substrate types. The strength of differentiation however, is not robust and combined with our discriminate analysis of separate populations suggests that there is the potential for substrates to exercise only weak control over the morphology of Brachiopoda.
Exploring the views of relatives of frail elderly patients about participating in a geriatric dentistry program
Authors: Ardenghi Diego Machado , Wyatt Chris 
Published: February 2017

ABSTRACTElderly residents of long‐term care facilities (LTC) have difficulty accessing dental services. Aiming to improve access for this population, the Geriatric Dental Program (GDP) was established by UBC Faculty of Dentistry in 2002. Within the GDP, elderly people receive fee‐for‐service dental care. The objective of this research was to explore whether accessing these services had an impact on the lives of the patients’ relatives. Data was collected through semi‐structured, face‐to‐face, audio‐recorded interviews with family members of 12 GDP patients. A criterion sampling method was used to select the interviewed family. Interview transcription and data coding procedures were conducted following Saldaña. NVivo software was used to code and organize the transcripts. Data analysis followed a qualitative thematic analysis. Final analysis shows that patient relatives are worried about their relatives’ oral health. They believe that it is difficult to find private dentists with geriatric expertise and to make appointments for their family members in private practice. In addition, they report that the GDP made their life less stressful and relieved the burden of setting up appointments for their relatives. Thus, it is expected that a similar program may positively affect the lives of patient relatives by improving access to dental care services.
The Contact‐Prejudice Relationship Among Ethnic Minorities: Examining the Facilitative Influence of Religiosity
Authors: Thomsen Jens Peter Frølund , Rafiqi Arzoo 
Published: February 2017

ObjectivesThe pioneers of intergroup contact research suggested that the positive impact of face‐to‐face interaction might fail among “intolerant” participants. To challenge this view, the present study extends previous research by examining religiosity as a boundary condition of intergroup contact among ethnic minority members.MethodsThe results were generated in a regression analysis of a Danish national probability sample from 2006 (N = 3,958).ResultsAnalyses show that: (a) the ability of intergroup contact to reduce prejudice is strongest among the most religious and (b) that contact reduces prejudice at all levels of religiosity.ConclusionsThese findings support the general claim that intergroup contact is sufficiently powerful to produce positive outcomes, even among the most “intolerant.” Additionally, the findings suggest that intergroup contact is not necessarily seriously infected by selection biases, as the most intolerant do not systematically avoid contact. The concluding section discusses the theoretical implications of the findings.
Warding Off Competition: The Impact of School District Outreach on Charter Expansion in Arizona
Authors: Milliman Scott , Maranto Robert , Wood William C. 
Published: February 2017

ObjectiveTo assess whether charter‐competition‐induced changes in traditional school district policies—in this case outreach programs—can slow subsequent charter growth.MethodsUsing Arizona data in a regression analysis, the impact of district outreach intensity on charter growth from 1997 to 2000—when these marketing activities were probably modified in response to prior (1994–1997) charter entry—is determined. This impact is then compared to the effect of outreach intensity on initial charter growth for 1994–1997, when competition‐induced changes in outreach activities were less likely to have been implemented.ResultsHigh district outreach intensity did not influence charter expansion during 1994–1997, but did slow this growth during 1997–2000.ConclusionTraditional school districts are capable of slowing charter growth via competition‐induced changes in outreach activities, but the effect occurs with a lag. The analysis suggests that charter entry also generates responses from private schools that slow charter growth.
A Growing Rift in Values? Income and Educational Inequality and Their Impact on Mass Attitude Polarization
Authors: Bosancianu Constantin Manuel 
Published: February 2017

ObjectivesCompeting theoretical models from economics and social psychology would suggest either a negative or positive association between income inequality and attitude polarization. In order to address the conflicting nature of the predictions made by these theoretical accounts, this analysis tests whether inequality indeed impacts polarization in Left‐Right ideological self‐placement for a diverse sample of democracies.MethodsI use World Values Surveys—European Values Surveys 1981–2008 combined data for obtaining a large time‐series cross‐sectional data set of indicators of attitude polarization. I rely on mixed‐effects models to test whether there is any connection between income inequality and polarization, after controlling for additional relevant factors, such as educational inequality.ResultsFindings point to no effect of income inequality on any measure of attitude polarization once educational inequality is controlled for. The latter type of inequality, on the other hand, has a consistent effect on two indicators of inequality, spread and bimodality, in the expected direction.ConclusionsIn spite of a highly plausible posited connection between income inequality and Left‐Right attitude polarization, this analysis has failed to find any connection between the two. Instead, educational inequality appears to exert a consistent effect on attitude polarization. The findings point to the need for a more nuanced view of connections between economic inequality and political attitudes and behaviors, and to the possibility that shifts in inequality of the magnitude observed in OECD countries might not lead to social tensions.
The Economic Crisis (2009–2013) and Electoral Support for the Radical Right in Western Europe—Some New and Unexpected Findings
Authors: Stockemer Daniel 
Published: February 2017

ObjectivesThis article evaluates the influence of the economic crisis (2009–2013) on the vote share of the radical right in Western European regions. I ask two questions: (1) Has the radical right electorally benefited from the recession that has hit Western Europe in the aftermath of the U.S. and European stock market crisis in 2008/2009? (2) Has it performed particularly well in areas that have been very hard hit by the crisis?MethodsI evaluate both questions in a longitudinal and multivariate framework through pooled time series analysis. The analysis, which controls for immigration, the education level of the region, and population density, covers more than 150 regions in 17 European countries from 1990 to 2013.ResultsFirst, I find that the 2009 to 2013 economic crisis has merely triggered a very moderate increase of 1 percentage point in the aggregate average regional vote share of the radical right. Second, and with the exception of regions in Greece and France, my results also indicate that the radical right has had the strongest electoral gains in regions and countries that have been relatively spared from the gust of the crisis.ConclusionThis quantitative study highlights that an economic crisis is no panacea for the success of the radical right.
Human‐to‐human transmission of Brucella – a systematic review
Authors: Tuon Felipe F. , Gondolfo Regina B. , Cerchiari Natacha 
Published: February 2017

AbstractObjectiveThe most common form of transmitting human brucellosis is through contaminated food or direct contact with infected animals. Human‐to‐human transmission (HHT) has been described as isolated case reports. The aim of this systematic review was to describe all cases of HHT of human brucellosis reported in the medical literature.MethodsA literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus and Scielo databases using specific search terms published until March 2016. Two investigators independently determined study eligibility. All clinical data were evaluated to construct a table comprising the most important clinical aspects, age, gender, confirmed infection and detection method, transmission method and HHT confirmation and potential source of infection for human transmission. No statistical method was employed in this study.ResultsThe initial search resulted in 615 publications, but only 35 were included. 45 brucellosis HHT cases were identified. 61% of patients who acquired brucellosis from another human were <1 year old (newborn and breastfeeding). Other cases include sexual transmission, blood transfusion, bone marrow transplantation and aerosol from an infected patient. Most patients (40/45) presented symptoms upon diagnosis. Diagnostic tests included culture, molecular methods and serum testing.ConclusionHuman brucellosis is a disease liable to transmission between humans by placental barrier, lactation, sexual and tissues such as blood and bone marrow. The indication for screening in tissue banks, transplants, blood and pregnancy is not yet established.
Hepatitis E risks: pigs or blood—that is the question
Authors: Tedder Richard S. , Ijaz Samreen , Kitchen Alan , Ushiro‐Lumb Ines , Tettmar Kate I. , Hewitt Patricia , Andrews Nick 
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUNDInfection with hepatitis E virus (HEV) Genotype 3 is recognized as a food‐borne zoonosis in developed countries where it usually causes a mild self‐limited acute hepatitis. It may cause a persistent infection in the immunosuppressed human that can progress to cirrhosis. To protect the patient from transfusion‐acquired HEV infection, steps have been taken in the United Kingdom to provide for at‐risk patients only components from donors screened for HEV viremia. This strategy does not protect from dietary exposure and calls into question estimation of relative risk between blood transfusion and diet.STUDY DESIGN AND METHODSUsing data on HEV viremia, component exposure, residual plasma volume, and resulting transmission, the dose of virus administered and subsequent transmission rates were determined and used to populate a model that can infer the relationship between blood and dietary exposure.RESULTSThe annual attack rate of a population, defined as seroconversion, provides an estimate of the risk of receiving a component containing HEV from a viremic donor. The lowest viral dose that resulted in infection was 2 × 104 IUs and 55% of components containing this dose transmitted infection. The transfusion risk of infection only exceeds the annual dietary risk when more than 13 individual donor components are transfused.CONCLUSIONFor many solid organ transplant patients dietary exposure far exceeds the risk of transfusion from unscreened donors. It is only in the immunosuppressed patient requiring extensive blood component support that transfusion risk dominates. This understanding should inform policy decisions on HEV RNA screening of blood donations.
Surgical margins in the veterinary cancer patient
Authors: Milovancev M. , Russell D. S. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractIn veterinary oncologic specimens, histopathology is the gold standard for determining adequacy of excision. Despite limitations of this technique, the pathologist's interpretation of margin status significantly impacts patient management, including indications for adjuvant therapy. This article aims to summarize peer‐reviewed literature as it relates to histologic margin evaluation in veterinary cancer patients. The value of histologic tumour‐free margins and technical factors influencing histopathologic margin outcomes are also discussed. We review alternative strategies for determining excisional status, and discuss how an evolving understanding of tumour biology might inform clinical and research perspectives on surgical margins. In doing so, we aim to provide context and a stimulus for future investigations into this important yet incompletely understood topic.