bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thinking about multiple identities boosts children’s flexible thinking
Authors: Gaither Sarah E. , Fan Samantha P. , Kinzler Katherine D.
Published: May 2019

Studies of children's developing social identification often focus on individual forms of identity. Yet, everyone has multiple potential identities. Here we investigated whether making children aware of their multifaceted identities—effectively seeing themselves from multiple angles—would promote their flexible thinking. In Experiment 1, 6‐ to 7‐year‐old children (N = 48) were assigned to either a Multiple‐Identities condition where they were led to consider their multiple identities (e.g. friend, neighbor) or to a Physical‐Traits condition where they considered their multiple physical attributes (e.g. legs, arms). Children in the Multiple‐Identity condition subsequently expressed greater flexibility at problem‐solving and categorization than children in the Physical‐Traits condition. Experiment 2 (N = 72) replicated these findings with a new sample of 6‐ to 7‐year‐old children and demonstrated that a Multiple‐Identity mindset must be self‐relevant. Children who were led to think about another child's multiple identities did not express as much subsequent creative thinking as did children who thought about their own multiple identities. Experiment 3 (N = 76) showed that a Mmultiple‐Identity framework may be particularly effective when the identities are presented via generic language suggesting that they are enduring traits (in this case, identities depicted as noun phrases rather than verbal phrases). These findings illustrate that something as simple as thinking about one's identity from multiple angles could serve as a tool to help reduce rigid thinking, which might increase open‐mindedness in a society that is becoming increasingly diverse.
Relational Contracting for Rural Artisanal Products: The Case of the Lao Handweaving Industry
Authors: Ohno Akihiko
Published: May 2019

Rural handwoven cloth from Laos came on to the market after the country’s economic liberalization in 1986. Though relational contracting is a major type of transaction in the cloth market, spot transactions and the workshop system also play a significant role. Relational contracting in the Lao cloth market has three distinct types: putting‐out, yarn‐on‐credit, and advacne‐order contracts. This paper examines why relational contracting is prevalent and what explains contract choice, especially choice regarding the three types of relational contracting. The paper focuses on the inherent agency problems in each type of relational contracting and the extent of these problems, which vary in two different situations: economic turbulence and stable circumstances. Additionally, the paper challenges historian and economic theses on the emergence of the workshop system. The discussion is based on results obtained from data collected via a unique interview survey with weaving‐sector actors from 1995 to 2015.
TRADE LIBERALIZATION AND CORPORATE INCOME TAX AVOIDANCE
Authors: Gao Wenjing , Lu Yao , Shi Xinzheng
Published: May 2019

We identify the effect of trade liberalization on corporate income tax avoidance in a sample of Chinese manufacturing firms, taking advantage of China's entry into the World Trade Organization (WTO). We find that firms engage in more tax avoidance in industries with larger tariff reductions. Further analysis shows that firms with a lack of cash or a high demand for cash before WTO entry tend to engage in more tax avoidance after WTO entry. Our study also provides evidence that manipulating costs is one way that firms avoid corporate income tax. (JEL D22, F61, F63, H26)
Developing global champions: Why national oil companies expand abroad
Authors: Cheon Andrew
Published: May 2019

National oil companies (NOCs) have invested hundreds of billions of dollars in foreign oil and gas assets. Why have some governments increased their NOC outward investments, while others have not? I argue that domestic structures can influence a government's calculus that potential benefits, such as added revenues and fuel supply, outweigh potential costs, such as information asymmetries and inefficiencies associated with NOCs. Nationally, partisan competition limits democratic tolerance for failures by NOCs. Bureaucratically, overlapping authority in energy policy undermines coherent NOC governance. Based on investments by NOCs hailing from 79 countries, 2000–2013, I find robust evidence for the national hypothesis.
Mechanism of TRPM2 channel gating revealed by cryo‐EM
Authors: Xia Shiyu , Wang Longfei , Fu Tian‐Min , Wu Hao
Published: May 2019

Transient receptor potential melastatin 2 (TRPM2) is a non‐selective cation channel that allows Ca2+ influx across the plasma membrane and efflux from lysosomes upon opening. TRPM2 is best known as a biosensor of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which mediates some of the body's responses to oxidative stress. As such, TRPM2 is involved in a plethora of biological processes including immune response, insulin secretion, body temperature control and neuronal cell death, and represents an emerging therapeutic target for many human diseases, from diabetes to inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. A direct ligand of TRPM2 is ADP‐ribose (ADPR), which accumulates in cells at high levels of ROS, and activates TRPM2 synergistically with intracellular calcium (Ca2+). Here, we describe recent cryo‐electron microscopy (cryo‐EM) structures of TRPM2 and summarize the insights they provided into the gating mechanism of the channel.
Prevalence of frailty status among the European elderly population: Findings from the Survey of Health, Aging and Retirement in Europe
Authors: Manfredi Giulia , Midão Luís , Paúl Constança , Cena Clara , Duarte Mafalda , Costa Elísio
Published: May 2019

Aim

In the present study, we aimed to update the data of frailty status in the European community‐dwelling population of older adults, based on the latest data released (wave 6) of the Survey of Health, Aging and Retirement in Europe database, and to study the impact of each criterion on frailty assessment.

Methods

Frailty status was assessed applying a version of the Fried phenotype operationalized for the Survey of Health, Aging and Retirement in Europe. We included all participants who answered all the questions used in a frailty assessment and who disclosed their sex and, furthermore, who were aged ≥50 years. Our final sample was 60 816 individuals. Of these, the mean age was 67.45 ± 9.71 years; 38 497 (56.4%) were women.

Results

The overall prevalence of pre‐frailty was 42.9% (ranging from 34.0% in Austria to 52.8% in Estonia), and frailty was 7.7% (ranging from 3.0% in Switzerland to 15.6% in Portugal). Pre‐frailty and frailty prevalence increased along with age, and were more frequent among women. Regarding the five criteria considered on frailty assessment, exhaustion seems to be the criterion that contributes most to frailty status, followed by low activity, weakness, loss of appetite and slowness.

Conclusions

With this work, we showed that >50% of the European population aged >50 years are pre‐frail/frail, which must be considered when designing interventions to reduce/postpone/mitigate the progression of this condition, thus reducing the burden associated with it. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 723–729.
Reversible DNA damage checkpoint activation at the presenescent stage in telomerase‐deficient cells of Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Miura Atsuhiro , Itakura Eisuke , Matsuura Akira
Published: May 2019

The telomere protects the ends of eukaryotic linear chromosomes, and its shortening or erosion is recognized as DNA damage, leading to loss of proliferation activity and, thus, cellular senescence at the population level. Here, using a GFP‐based DNA damage checkpoint marker suited for single‐cell observation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells, we correlated the checkpoint status of telomere‐shortened cells with their behavior. We show that some cells possessing short telomeres retain proliferation capacity even after the DNA damage checkpoint is activated. At the presenescent stage, the activation of the checkpoint causes cell cycle delay, but does not induce permanent cell cycle arrest, eventually leading to the expansion of cell size that is characteristic of cellular senescence. Moreover, the proliferation capacity of checkpoint‐activated cells is not dependent on homologous recombination or the checkpoint adaptation pathway. The retention of proliferation capacity is specific to the telomere‐derived DNA damage response, suggesting that damaged telomeres differ functionally from other types of DNA damage. Our data establish the role of the presenescent stage in telomere shortening‐induced senescence, which proceeds gradually and is associated with a variety of changes, including altered cell morphology and metabolism.
Wonder in early modern Ottoman society: A case study in the history of emotions
Authors: Ben‐Ami Ido
Published: May 2019

The questions what an emotion is and how it is generated can be answered in multiple ways. Usually, the answer depends on the disciplinary perspective. As was recently noted by several dominant historians who deal with the history of emotions, although the biological and psychological elements of a certain feeling should not be ignored, within historical research, a focus on social and cultural aspects of emotion generation seems to be more convincing. In this article, I address this issue in the context of Ottoman studies from the perspective of Barbara H. Rosenwein's notion of “emotional communities.” I consider early modern Ottoman elite society of Istanbul to be such a community and demonstrate how several powerful individuals from this large social group relied on a medieval Islamic theory about cosmographic “wonder” and encouraged its members to embrace this emotion into their social and cultural milieus.
Hunner lesion versus non‐Hunner lesion interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome
Authors: Whitmore Kristene E , Fall Magnus , Sengiku Atsushi , Tomoe Hikaru , Logadottir Yr , Kim Young Ho
Published: May 2019

Background

Global consensus on the standardization of terminology for interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome is lacking and is in the formative stages. The Workshop on Hunner lesion versus non‐Hunner lesion at the 2018 International Consultation on Interstitial Cystitis Japan discussed prevalence, performance and outcome of endoscopy, the role of histopathology, and markers.

Methods

A panel of experts reviewed the literature regarding Hunner lesion vs. non‐Hunner lesion interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome.

Results

The prevalence of Hunner lesion has been reported to be 5–57%. Older age and smaller anatomic bladder capacity were associated with Hunner lesions. Cystoscopy using local anesthesia is not adequate in diagnosing interstitial cystitis but is needed to rule out confusable diseases. Cystoscopy with hydrodistention and redistention of the bladder is considered standard. A Hunner lesion is visualized as a quite typical inflammatory reaction: a reddened mucosal area with small vessels radiating towards a central scar, splitting at distension, usually associated with a waterfall bleeding pattern. Biopsies from the inflamed area show inflammatory infiltrates, granulation tissue, detrusor mastocytosis, and fibrin deposits. Ablation of Hunner lesions includes transurethral resection of lesions, fulguration, laser ablation, and cortical steroid injections. Mast cell density is a somewhat controversial matter, described differently in different studies: marked increase in Hunner lesion vs. non‐Hunner lesion in the majority of studies, no difference in a few. Nitric oxide appears to be a definitive marker in distinguishing Hunner lesion vs. non‐Hunner lesion disease. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor is elevated in Hunner lesion patients. Increased level of urinary proinflammatory genes expression has also been found in Hunner lesion subjects.

Conclusions

Hunner lesion patients are clinically and pathologically distinct from non‐Hunner lesion bladder pain syndrome patients.
Gynecological associated disorders and management
Authors: Jia Xibei , Rana Neha , Crouss Tess , Whitmore Kristene E
Published: May 2019

Background

Chronic pelvic pain syndrome is complex and involves multiple organ systems. The gynecological aspects of chronic pelvic pain syndrome can be divided into four different areas: intra‐abdominal, vaginal, pelvic floor muscles and sexual pain. This article provides an overview of gynecological evaluation in patients with chronic pelvic pain and reviews the most common gynecological diagnoses and their management.

Methods

An extensive review of the literature including guidelines from the International Continence Society, the European Association of Urology, and the International Association for the Study of Pain was performed.

Results

Gynecological evaluation of patients with chronic pelvic pain begins with a thorough history and physical examination. Laboratory tests, imaging studies and diagnostic procedures can be used as adjuncts to make a diagnosis. Treatment modalities include physical therapy, medications, trigger points injections, and surgery.

Conclusion

Common gynecological diagnoses of chronic pelvic pain include endometriosis, adenomyosis, vulvodynia, high tone pelvic floor dysfunction, and genitopelvic pain/penetration disorder. Gynecology is one of the many systems that can be associated with chronic pelvic pain. Managing patients with chronic pelvic pain requires a multimodal and multidisciplinary approach.
A modified clinical scoring system for bladder pain syndrome: Long term experience
Authors: Taneja Rajesh , Massand Sameer
Published: May 2019

Purpose

To document a modified clinical scoring system in patients with bladder pain syndrome that increases weightage to pain and nocturia and includes measures for sexual dysfunction and psychological impact. The clinical outcome of a set combination of treatment modalities linked to the clinical score at entry was also made.

Methods

The new proposed scale was used to assess and treat 190 enrolled patients from January 2009 to September 30, 2017. The patients were evaluated using the new scoring system at the time of induction, after 1, 3 and 6 months after commencement of treatment. Thereafter, they were followed every 6 months. The new scoring system included increased weightage to pain and nocturia and added domains of sexual dysfunction and psychological impact. The patients were treated with a protocol followed by the authors and published in the year 2007. A pictorial linkage of treatment modalities used with the clinical score of the patient was also described.

Results

A total of 174 evaluable patients had a follow up between 6 and 105 months (mean 64 months). The patients had age distribution between 24 and 76 years and included 19 male patients. 154 out of 174 patients (88.5%) had good or excellent response to treatment using the proposed scale at the end of 6 months.

Conclusions

The proposed clinical scale appeared to aid clinical stratification of severity of the disease at the induction and during follow up. The treatment protocol could be linked with the clinical score at the time of induction.
Intravesical tacrolimus in treatment of intractable interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome – A pilot study
Authors: Mishra Nagendra N , Riedl Claus , Shah Shail , Pathak Nupoor
Published: May 2019

Aims

Interstitial cystitis/Bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a chronic condition with limited effectiveness of current treatments without any cure. Cyclosporine A is effective in intractable cases of BPS/IC. Tacrolimus has same mechanism of action. The purpose of this pilot study was to find if tacrolimus instilled in bladder is effective in treating BPS/IC without side effects.

Methods

From February 2013 till Dec. 2017 tacrolimus dissolved in DMSO/sterile water was instilled in bladder of 24 patients of intractable BPS/IC. Patients received one to six cycles of therapy at interval of 14 days. Base line complete blood count, blood glucose, renal and liver function test were done and repeated after every three instillations. Serum tacrolimus level was also measured in 10 patients. Primary study endpoint was Global Response Assessment (GRA) score.

Results

13 out of 24 patients showed improvement in a follow up extending from 6 to 63 month. Except for post‐ instillation flare in symptoms no side effects were observed in the patients during follow‐up. Blood levels of tacrolimus reach same safe level irrespective of using either DMSO or water for preparing the solution.

Conclusions

Intravesical tacrolimus dissolved in DMSO/water has been found effective in 54% patients of intractable BPS/IC without significant side effects in this pilot study. For the first time we have discovered that though tacrolimus is believed to be insoluble in water it gets absorbed by bladder urothelium when a solution of tacrolimus in water is instilled in urinary bladder. It should be offered to the patients before offering surgery.
Impact of irradiation induced dislocation loops on thermal conductivity in ceramics
Authors: Khafizov Marat , Pakarinen Janne , He Lingfeng , Hurley David H.
Published: May 2019

Experimental work aimed at understanding the role of dislocation loops in limiting phonon mediated thermal transport in ceramics is presented. Faulted dislocation loops, having diameters of a few nanometers, were introduced by irradiating a polycrystalline cerium dioxide sample with 1.6 MeV protons at 700°C. XRD analysis indicated that irradiated samples retained their crystalline structure and exhibit very little lattice expansion suggesting a low concentration of point defects. Further microstructure characterization using transmission electron microscopy revealed that interstitial type faulted dislocation loops were primarily created as expected for these irradiation conditions. Thermal conductivity of the damaged layer was measured using a modulated thermoreflectance approach. Analysis of the experimental data using the classical Klemens‐Callaway approach reveals that the conductivity reduction is primarily due to dislocation loops, while point defects and voids play only a minor role. These results provide experimental confirmation that faulted loops offer a unique arrangement for displaced atoms that leads to an unusually large reduction of thermal conductivity.
Ablation behaviors and mechanism of ultra‐thick anti‐oxidation layer coating on carbon‐bonded carbon fiber composites
Authors: Du Bin , He Chao , Qian Junjie , Wang Xuan , Cai Mei , Shui Anze
Published: May 2019

To enhance the oxidation resistance capability of the carbon‐bonded carbon fiber composites (CBCFs), a silicide ultra‐thick coating as high as 1.6 mm with gradient structure is designed and fabricated via a multi‐step rapid sintering method. Compared with other ceramic layers on carbon fiber‐based composites, ultra‐thick anti‐oxidation layer coated‐CBCFs have the lowest thermal conductivity. Additionally, ablation behaviors of the ultra‐thick ceramics layer coated‐CBCFs under the oxyacetylene torch are also investigated. After being exposed to oxyacetylene torch, the ultra‐thick ceramics layer coated‐CBCFs possess a linear rate range from 0.6 to 1.2 μm/s, while a mass ablation rate ranges from 4.95 × 10−5 g/m2 s to 1.45 × 10−3 g/m2 s.
Knockdown of spliceosome U2AF1 significantly inhibits the development of human erythroid cells
Authors: Zhang Jieying , Zhao Huizhi , Wu Kunlu , Peng Yuanliang , Han Xu , Zhang Huan , Liang Long , Chen Huiyong , Hu Jingping , Qu Xiaoli , Zhang Shijie , Chen Lixiang , Liu Jing
Published: May 2019

U2AF1 (U2AF35) is the small subunit of the U2 auxiliary factor (U2AF) that constitutes the U2 snRNP (small nuclear ribonucleoproteins) of the spliceosome. Here, we examined the function of U2AF1 in human erythropoiesis. First, we examined the expression of U2AF1 during in vitro human erythropoiesis and showed that U2AF1 was highly expressed in the erythroid progenitor burst‐forming‐unit erythroid (BFU‐E) cell stage. A colony assay revealed that U2AF1 knockdown cells failed to form BFU‐E and colony‐forming‐unit erythroid (CFU‐E) colonies. Our results further showed that knockdown of U2AF1 significantly inhibited cell growth and induced apoptosis in erythropoiesis. Additionally, knockdown of U2AF1 also delayed terminal erythroid differentiation. To explore the molecular basis of the impaired function of erythroid development, RNA‐seq was performed and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis results showed that several biological pathways, including the p53 signalling pathway, MAPK signalling pathway and haematopoietic cell lineage, were involved, with the p53 signalling pathway showing the greatest involvement. Western blot analysis revealed an increase in the protein levels of downstream targets of p53 following U2AF1 knockdown. The data further showed that depletion of U2AF1 altered alternatively spliced apoptosis‐associated gene transcripts in CFU‐E cells. Our findings elucidate the role of U2AF1 in human erythropoiesis and reveal the underlying mechanisms.
Comment on ‘Acne and nutrition: hypotheses, myths and facts’
Authors: Donnarumma M. , Savastano S. , Barrea L. , Blasio C. , Colao A. , Fabbrocini G.
Published: May 2019

Linked article: J.P. Claudel. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2019; 33: e420. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.15722.
Electrical resistance and mold distribution on beef surface as indicators of dry aging
Authors: Oh Jungmin , Lee Hyun Jung , Yoon Ji Won , Choe Juhui , Jo Cheorun
Published: May 2019

The objective of this study was to investigate the electrical resistance and mold distribution on a dry‐aged beef surface (crust) and to explore the use of these information as an indicator of dry aging. In total, 18 strip loins (longissimus lumborum) were dry aged for 35 days. During aging period, electrical resistance and mold distribution on the crust, pH, shear force, and sensory properties (appearance, flavor, tenderness, juiciness, and overall acceptance) of the edible portion of meat were assessed. Electrical resistance (R2 = .91, −.72, and .69, respectively) and mold distribution (R2 = .81, −.73, and .65, respectively) of the surface were strongly correlated to pH, shear force, and tenderness of dry‐aged beef (p < .05). Moreover, mold distribution had significant correlation to flavor (R2 = .48), among sensory properties. In conclusion, the electrical resistance and mold distribution on beef surface indicate the degree of dry aging, especially in tenderness and flavor..

Practical applications

The manufacture parameters of dry aging have been varied with different meat producers, resulting in different final qualities of dry‐aged beef products. In this study, we suggested the use of indicators for determination of level of dry‐aging in beef including electrical resistance and mold distribution. It can help unexperienced small meat producers to guarantee the suitable degree of doneness of dry‐aged beef, especially in flavor and tenderness.
Is “Coming Out” Still Relevant? Social Justice Implications for LGB‐Membered Families
Authors: Alonzo Daniel J. , Buttitta Deborah J.
Published: May 2019

The process of “coming out” for a lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) individual has been described in social sciences literature for almost 40 years. This review of the literature investigated whether sexual minority individuals continue to struggle with a coming‐out process in a more accepting society. Historically, the literature focused on the stages of acknowledging to oneself and others that one identifies with a minority sexual orientation. However, current literature offers new models for understanding sexual orientation and alternative paths to sexual identity that use more contextual and culturally relevant frameworks. Several other variables—including the internalization of sexual stigma, the intersection of sexual identity with other cultural variables, and the minority stress experienced by LGB individuals—have a major impact on the well‐being of LGB individuals and their families. This article also discusses the impact of the current sociopolitical climate on the coming‐out process.
Development of a novel composite sensor for evaluating lip function
Authors: Sugano Aki , Ofusa Wataru , Sugito Hiroki , Matsubayashi Naoto , Hakkaku Megumi , Yamada Yoshiaki
Published: May 2019

Objective

To test a novel sensor for assessing lip function.

Methods

The electromyographic (EMG) activity of the upper orbicularis oris muscle (OOM), lip‐closing pressure (LP) and intraoral baro‐pressure (IP) were simultaneously recorded in 20 healthy subjects (10 women and 10 men) by using a novel composite sensor (CS). Subjects performed the lip‐closure, blow and suck tasks. EMG activity of the upper and lower OOMs was recorded using conventional surface electrodes to evaluate the accuracy of CS electrodes. The subjects also rated the user‐friendliness of the CS.

Results

Integrated EMG signals recorded using the CS and conventional electrodes from the upper OOM were highly correlated (r = 0.77 ± 0.12 in women and r = 0.81 ± 0.10 in men). The signal‐to‐noise ratio was higher with the CS than with the conventional electrodes. The mean LP during maximum lip closure, blowing and sucking ranged between 2 and 6 kPa in women and between 5 and 7 kPa in men. The corresponding IPs in women were 0.0 ± 0.5, 3.2 ± 1.4 and −4.4 ± 2.6 kPa, respectively, and in men were −0.5 ± 1.4, 4.9 ± 1.8 and −5.6 ± 2.8 kPa, respectively. All subjects rated the recording technique as excellent or good.

Conclusion

The CS was highly user‐friendly and accurate in recording the EMG activity of the OOM and could simultaneously measure the LP and IP. Therefore, it could be an effective tool for evaluating lip function.
Expansion of Dental Care for Low‐Income Children Through a Mobile Services Program
Authors: Spetz Joanne , Pourat Nadereh , Chen Xiao , Lee Christopher , Martinez Ana , Xin Kong , Hughes Dana
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

Although access to dental care has improved over time, many children still face difficulty in obtaining services. One strategy to increase access is through mobile dental services, often in collaboration with schools, Head Start programs, and school‐based health centers. This study evaluates a large mobile dental care program based in Minnesota.

METHODS

Thematic analysis of interview data collected during a 2‐day site visit and multivariate regression analysis of electronic records of patients (adults and children) that received care from 2000 through 2015, representing 84,279 unique patients.

RESULTS

The number of patients increased from 5558 in 2000 to 13,863 in 2015. There was a decline in the share of preventive procedures over this period, from 45.7% to 29.4%, and an increase in the share of patients seen at fixed sites. The interview data revealed that program growth relied on relationships with school leaders, expanded scope of practice for dental assistants and dental therapists, and high Medicaid reimbursement.

CONCLUSIONS

Mobile dental care programs can increase both preventive and restorative dental care for individuals who otherwise would not easily access oral health care services; mobile dental programs could be an option in many other communities and schools.
Effect of genistein on IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐1 in young and aged female rat ovary
Authors: Chi Xiao‐xing , Zhang Tao , Chu Xiao‐li
Published: May 2019

The objective of this study was to assess the effects of genistein (GEN) on expression of insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) and insulin‐like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP‐1) in young and aged rat ovary. Forty young female Sprague Dawley (SD) rats (200 ± 20 g) and forty aged female SD rats (490 ± 20 g) were selected and according to weight, they were divided into the following five groups with eight animals in each: negative control group (NC), low‐dose group (L), middle‐dose group (M), high‐dose group (H) and positive control group (PC). GEN group received GEN of 15, 30, 60 mg/kg respectively. It lasted 30 days. Concentrations of serum hormones, IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐1 were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Gene and protein expressions of IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐1 were determined by real‐time PCR and Western blot respectively. Compared with NC, GEN significantly increased oestradiol‐17β(E2) level in aged rat, reduced luteinizing hormone (LH) level in young and aged rat. Serum levels of IGFBP‐1 in young rats were significantly higher in GEN groups (p < 0.05). mRNA and protein expression levels of IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐1 were positively correlated with GEN dose. GEN could significantly reduce the ratio of IGF‐1/IGFBP‐1 of aged rats. Multivariate Cox regression analysis result showed IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐1 levels significantly correlated with GEN dose. We speculate that there is an association between the addition of GEN and expression of IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐1, and the relationship between them is different in young and aged rat.
How oral health and food sensory properties impact oral comfort during consumption of apples: A comparative approach in seniors and young adults
Authors: Braud Adeline , Symoneaux Ronan , Patron Corinne , Brasse Céline , Forgerit Véronique , Lourtioux Flore , Picouet Pierre , Maitre Isabelle
Published: May 2019

Difficulties encountered during oral processing may cause food avoidance and increase the risk of malnutrition in older adults. The present survey aimed at comparing oral comfort experienced during consumption of apples in elderly and younger people. To do this, 122 participants divided into a senior group (65–83 years) and a control group (35–64 years) rated three varieties of apples (Gala, Granny Smith, Honey Crunch) using a “food comfortability” questionnaire related to general comfort, bolus formation, pain, texture, and taste sensations, and were assessed for their oral conditions. Each score of the “food comfortability” questionnaire was then submitted to a global principal component analysis and an analysis of variance. Apple variety was a significant factor for all items of the questionnaire. Age significantly affected dental pain, crunchiness, and melting sensation, with increased scores for pain and melting perception, and decreased scores for crunchiness when aging. Global comfort experienced while eating apple was also impacted by dental status and resting saliva flow rate. Bolus moistening was related to stimulated saliva flow rate, and its fragmentation was dependant on denture use. Painful sensations depended on self‐reported oral quality of life and sweet taste perception was influenced by the presence of oral mucosal disease. Apple variety is a good predictor of oral comfort experienced while eating. Altough age has a little effect on pain and texture perception, oral conditions such as missing teeth or denture use also contribute to oral comfort when consuming apples.
Resource pulses affect prey selection and reduce dietary diversity of dingoes in arid Australia
Authors: Tatler Jack , Prowse Thomas A. A. , Roshier David A. , Allen Benjamin L. , Cassey Phillip
Published: May 2019

In Australia, the dingo Canis lupus dingo is the largest terrestrial predator. Dingoes contribute to ecological processes and functions throughout their continental geographic range. Their generalist diet enables daily energetic requirements to be met even in the resource‐limited deserts of central Australia, where irregular rainfall drives extreme fluctuations in mammal assemblages. Given that predation is a primary driver of declining mammal populations and failed reintroductions, it is necessary to understand the dietary intake of the continent's apex predator if conservation outcomes are to be achieved.

We performed a meta‐analysis of the mammalian composition of the dingo's diet throughout Australia's arid zone, an area covering c. 5.4 million km2. We used 25 data sets from 11 studies to measure the effects of resource booms and anthropogenic disturbance (pastoralism) on diet. We explored whether the probability of prey species occurring in the diet was related to the size of the prey or to prevailing conditions. We also investigated the similarities in diet between dingo populations from across the arid zone, and how dietary overlap was affected by opposing land uses.

Dingoes primarily consumed medium‐sized (35–5500 g) and large (>5500 g) mammals, whereas most small mammals (<35 g) were consumed infrequently, or not at all.

The composition of the diet changed dramatically during resource booms to exploit irruptive prey species such as long‐haired rats Rattus villosissimus (native; 144 g) and house mice Mus musculus (introduced; 20 g). During resource booms, the consumption of large mammals decreased significantly, whereas the occurrence in the diet of medium‐sized mammals remained high. The diversity of species consumed by dingoes was significantly lower during boom periods than during non‐boom periods.

The dingo's heightened consumption of hyper‐abundant species has the potential to release many non‐target species from direct predation pressure during boom times. This could be advantageous for remnant and reintroduced populations of mammals, which are especially susceptible to predation.
Adaptation of the group A Streptococcus adhesin Scl1 to bind fibronectin type III repeats within wound‐associated extracellular matrix: implications for cancer therapy
Authors: McNitt Dudley H. , Choi Soo Jeon , Allen Jessica L. , Hames River A. , Weed Scott A. , Van De Water Livingston , Berisio Rita , Lukomski Slawomir
Published: May 2019

The human‐adapted pathogen group A Streptococcus (GAS) utilizes wounds as portals of entry into host tissue, wherein surface adhesins interact with the extracellular matrix, enabling bacterial colonization. The streptococcal collagen‐like protein 1 (Scl1) is a major adhesin of GAS that selectively binds to two fibronectin type III (FnIII) repeats within cellular fibronectin, specifically the alternatively spliced extra domains A and B, and the FnIII repeats within tenascin‐C. Binding to FnIII repeats was mediated through conserved structural determinants present within the Scl1 globular domain and facilitated GAS adherence and biofilm formation. Isoforms of cellular fibronectin that contain extra domains A and B, as well as tenascin‐C, are present for several days in the wound extracellular matrix. Scl1‐FnIII binding is therefore an example of GAS adaptation to the host's wound environment. Similarly, cellular fibronectin isoforms and tenascin‐C are present in the tumor microenvironment. Consistent with this, FnIII repeats mediate GAS attachment to and enhancement of biofilm formation on matrices deposited by cancer‐associated fibroblasts and osteosarcoma cells. These data collectively support the premise for utilization of the Scl1‐FnIII interaction as a novel method of anti‐neoplastic targeting in the tumor microenvironment.
Population genomics of an outbreak of the potato late blight pathogen, Phytophthora infestans, reveals both clonality and high genotypic diversity
Authors: Maurice Sundy , Montes Melanie S. , Nielsen Bent J. , Bødker Lars , Martin Michael D. , Jønck Carina G. , Kjøller Rasmus , Rosendahl Søren
Published: May 2019

An outbreak of the potato late blight pathogen Phytophthora infestans in Denmark was characterized in order to resolve the population structure and determine to what extent sexual reproduction was occurring. A standard set of microsatellite simple sequence repeats (SSRs) and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers generated using restriction site‐associated DNA sequencing (RAD‐seq) were employed in parallel. A total of 83 individuals, isolated from seven different potato fields in 2014, were analysed together with five Danish whole‐genome sequenced isolates, as well as two Mexican individuals used as an outgroup. From a filtered dataset of 55 288 SNPs, population genomics analyses revealed no sign of recombination, implying clonality. In spite of this, multilocus genotypes were unique to individual potato fields, with little evidence of gene flow between fields. Ploidy analysis performed on the SNPs dataset indicated that the majority of isolates were diploid. These contradictory results with clonality and high genotypic diversity may suggest that rare sexual events likely still contribute to the population. Comparison of the results generated by SSRs vs SNPs data indicated that large marker sets, generated by RAD‐seq, may be advised going forward, as it provides a higher level of genetic discrimination than SSRs.
A systems genetics analysis in Eucalyptus reveals coordination of metabolic pathways associated with xylan modification in wood‐forming tissues
Authors: Wierzbicki Martin P. , Christie Nanette , Pinard Desré , Mansfield Shawn D. , Mizrachi Eshchar , Myburg Alexander A.
Published: May 2019

Acetyl‐ and methylglucuronic acid decorations of xylan, the dominant hemicellulose in secondary cell walls (SCWs) of woody dicots, affect its interaction with cellulose and lignin to determine SCW structure and extractability. Genes and pathways involved in these modifications may be targets for genetic engineering; however, little is known about the regulation of xylan modifications in woody plants.

To address this, we assessed genetic and gene expression variation associated with xylan modification in developing xylem of Eucalyptus grandis × Eucalyptus urophylla interspecific hybrids. Expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) mapping identified potential regulatory polymorphisms affecting gene expression modules associated with xylan modification.

We identified 14 putative xylan modification genes that are members of five expression modules sharing seven trans‐eQTL hotspots. The xylan modification genes are prevalent in two expression modules. The first comprises nucleotide sugar interconversion pathways supplying the essential precursors for cellulose and xylan biosynthesis. The second contains genes responsible for phenylalanine biosynthesis and S‐adenosylmethionine biosynthesis required for glucuronic acid and monolignol methylation. Co‐expression and co‐regulation analyses also identified four metabolic sources of acetyl coenxyme A that appear to be transcriptionally coordinated with xylan modification.

Our systems genetics analysis may provide new avenues for metabolic engineering to alter wood SCW biology for enhanced biomass processability.
An integrated overview of AV node physiology
Authors: Billette Jacques , Tadros Rafik
Published: May 2019

The atrioventricular (AV) node generates half of the AV delay needed for blood pumping and filters atrial impulses that could otherwise induce life‐threatening ventricular arrhythmias. It is also a pacemaker and a key target in the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. The special roles of the AV node primarily arise from its slow conduction, long refractory period, and cellular automaticity. However, efforts to establish the dynamics of these properties and their interaction led to many controversies. In fact, the AV node's behavior is so complex that it seems to escape broadly applicable rules. This review summarizes progresses made in resolving these issues and in integrating the multiple roles of the AV node within a common functional model. Presented evidence shows that the rate‐dependent conduction and refractory properties of the AV node can be reliably characterized and reconciled from nodal responses to S1S2S3 protocols. It also supports the concept that dual pathways constitute a feature of the normal AV node and account for its overall conduction and refractory properties. In this model, the posterior extension and compact node provide the core of the slow and fast pathway, respectively. The transitional tissues and lower nodal bundle provide a common proximal and distal pathway, respectively. These pathways would also support bidirectional conduction. The dual pathway involvement can also be extended to widely variable AV nodal responses, such as Wenckebach cycles, hysteresis, and ventricular response to atrial fibrillation. In brief, the intricate AV nodal behavior may obey a limited set of accessible and definable rules.
Genetic relatedness and the ratio of subpopulation‐common alleles are related in genomic prediction across structured subpopulations in maize
Authors: Li Dongdong , Wang Pingxi , Gu Riliang , Fu Junjie , Xu Zhenxiang , Lyle Demar , Peng Yunling , Wang Guoying , Zhang Hongwei
Published: May 2019

Genomic prediction (GP), which could predict the breeding value of crop plants genotyped with molecular markers, has been carried out in multiple species. Prediction accuracy (PA) of GP depends on various factors, including genetic relatedness and genetic basis. In this study, we examined the rationale for the low PA of GP when the training and validation populations were distinct using 170 temperate inbred lines and 210 tropical and subtropical inbred lines, respectively. All inbred lines were evaluated for 17 traits and genotyped with 550K high‐density markers. The results show that: (a) the influences of heritability and marker number on PA reflected variations in phenotypic variance captured by the genetic information; (b) the low PA of GP when the training and validation populations represent structured subpopulation is related to the ratio of subpopulation‐common alleles (RSCA) and the genetic relatedness between the two subpopulations; (c) RSCA and PA increased with the increase of genetic relatedness, suggesting that these three factors were related. Our findings would provide references when performing GP, and guidance when designing breeding populations.
“In vitro” capacitation and further progesterone‐induced acrosome exocytosis are linked to specific changes in the expression and location of threonine phosphorylation of boar spermatozoa
Authors: Ramió‐Lluch Laura , Prieto Olga Blanco , Ramírez Alfredo , Fernández‐Novell Josep M. , Peña Alejandro , Rodríguez‐Gil Joan Enric
Published: May 2019

The aim of this study was to determine if the achievement of the “in vitro” capacitation (IVC) status and subsequent progesterone‐induced “in vitro” acrosome exocytosis (IVAE) was accompanied with overall changes in threonine phosphorylation (pThre) of boar spermatozoa. For this purpose, mono‐ and bi‐dimensional Western blot analyses as well as immunocytochemistry studies against pThre were performed in boar sperm subjected to IVC and subsequent IVAE. Mono‐dimensional Western blot in non‐capacitated samples showed that launching of IVC did induce an overall increase in signal intensity in all observed bands that was followed by a subsequent decrease afterwards. Bi‐dimensional Western blot analysis showed the presence of four main signal protein clusters. The attainment of IVC induced an overall decrease in the number and intensity of spots of Clusters A, B and C and a concomitant increase in the intensity of spots of Cluster D. The IVAE launching caused a rapid increase in the intensity of spots of Clusters B, C and D, which was followed by a subsequent decrease of the intensity together with a concomitant pI displacement of Cluster C. Finally, immunocytochemistry showed that the pThre signal of non‐capacitated cells was located at the whole sperm. The IVC did not induce prominent changes in this location. In contrast, the induction of IVAE caused the appearance of an additional an intense acrosome and tail pThre signal that subsequently decreased. In conclusion, our results indicate that IVC and further IVAE induced specific changes in the intensity and appearance of pThre protein phosphorylation which were linked to changes of specific protein characteristics as pI. These results support, thus, the existence of a specific role of pThre in IVC/IVAE of boar sperm.
Rural Livelihood Diversification: A Solution for Poverty in the Post‐Soviet Rural Baltic States?
Authors: Žakevičiūtė Rasa
Published: May 2019

This article analyses rural livelihood diversification through a longitudinal follow‐up survey, that targets former collective farm workers in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. It argues, that between 1995 and 2010 the former collective farm workers employed three distinct livelihood diversification strategies in order to create their living. A wage‐based livelihood diversification strategy, which does not include any agricultural practices, was more common among the better‐off households. A farm‐based livelihood diversification strategy, which does not rely on salaries, was more often employed by the poor. A mixed strategy, that combines both wage income and farm activities, was used by both better‐off (above the poverty line) and poor households (below the poverty line). The paper also finds that livelihood diversification and poverty among the researched households have country specific patterns, which coincide with the general rural development in Baltic states.
Phylogenetics and comparative analysis of the mitochondrial genomes of three violet‐ringed octopuses
Authors: Tang Yan , Zheng Xiaodong , Zhong Hong , Li Qi
Published: May 2019

Similar morphological characters and little molecular data ofAmphioctopus rex,A. neglectusandA. cf. ovulumresulted in their unknown phylogenetic statuses and equivocal relationships. In this study, the complete mitochondrial genomes of these three species collected in Chinese waters were sequenced and compared with each other to clarify the relationships among them. The lengths of the mitochondrial genomes varied from 15,646 bp to 15,814 bp, and the A + T content and GC skew for protein‐coding genes showed little variation. In contrast, both a dendrogram based on codon usage and the gene arrangements of the three octopuses showed thatA. rexwas more closely related toA. neglectusthan toA. cf. ovulum. Five data sets and two methods (maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference) were utilized for the first time to explore the phylogenetic relationships among these three species in Octopodidae. The results indicated that a data set combining protein‐coding genes and RNA genes (PR) was optimal for analysing the relationships among 43 cephalopods. All of the phylogenetic trees divided the cephalopods into 10 taxa and supported the monophyly of Oegopsida, Myopsida, Sepiidae and Octopodidae. In this study, Idiosepiidae was classified as sister to Sepiolidae. Trees constructed using all data sets robustly supported the monophyly of the genusAmphioctopus. Notably,A. rexwas more closely related toA. neglectusthan toA. cf. ovulum, although these three species share the characteristic of violet rings on dark ocelli.
Measurement and Evaluation of the Competitiveness of Rural E-commerce of Sichuan Province in China
Authors: Wenjin Guan
Published: May 2019

The development of rural e-commerce has provided new ideas for provinces and cities to promote rural revitalization. This paper combines the indicators of the competitiveness evaluation system of rural e-commerce established in domestic literature, and chooses 12 basic indicators to analyze the development of rural e-commerce in Sichuan Province. By collecting the data of Sichuan Statistical Yearbook and Statistical Bulletins in Sichuan Province and using factor analysis, this paper aims to find out the key factors affecting the development of rural e-commerce in Sichuan Province, calculates the comprehensive competitiveness scores of rural e-commerce in 21 cities and states of Sichuan Province, and puts forward corresponding suggestions and measures. The results show that the development of rural e-commerce in Sichuan Province is seriously unbalanced. The development of rural e-commerce in Chengdu has absolute advantages in Sichuan Province, but other cities, such as Panzhihua City, have overtaken Chengdu City in some aspects.
Climate Change Impacts on Free-Living Nonhuman Animals. Challenges for Media and Communication Ethics
Authors: Almiron Núria , Faria Catia
Published: May 2019

The mainstream discussion regarding climate change in politics, public opinion and the media has focused almost exclusively on preventing the harms humans suffer due to global warming. Yet climate change is already having an impact on free-living nonhumans, which raises unexplored ethical concerns from a nondiscriminatory point of view. This paper discusses the inherent ethical challenge of climate change impacts on nonhuman animals living in nature and argues that the media and communication ethics cannot avoid addressing the issue. The paper further argues that media ethics needs to mirror animal ethics by rejecting moral anthropocentrism.