bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavioral intention to prevent cervical cancer and related factors among female high school students in Japan
Authors: Shida Junko , Kuwana Kakoyo , Takahashi Kazuko
Published: March 2018

Aim

This study aimed to examine female high school students’ behavioral intention to prevent cervical cancer and related factors.

Methods

The participants were 2158 female high school students at 16 high schools in A prefecture in the Tohoku region in Japan. A self‐administered questionnaire was carried out that was developed based on a conceptual framework comprising the Health Belief Model and Theory of Reasoned Action.

Results

The responses were obtained from 2072 students (96.0%). Of these, the answers of 2028 respondents were analyzed after excluding those participants who did not complete the behavioral intention item (effective response rate: 97.0%). A factor analysis and covariance structure analysis yielded a model with strong goodness‐of‐fit that explained the behavioral intentions based on an “Awareness of the importance and effectiveness of cervical cancer screening,” “Obstacles to cervical cancer prevention behavior,” “Subjective norms for adopting cervical cancer prevention behavior,” and “The behavior of someone close that encourages cervical cancer prevention behavior.”

Conclusion

The statistical analysis yielded a model with strong goodness‐of‐fit that explained female high school students’ behavioral intentions, which were related to four factors, including “the awareness of the importance and effectiveness of cervical cancer screening.”
Andean–Pacific Commerce and Credit: Bolivian Traders, Asian Migrant Businesses, and International Manufacturers in the Regional Economy
Authors: Müller Juliane
Published: March 2018

Este artículo analiza la configuración cambiante del comercio regional de artefactos electrónicos. Basado en un trabajo etnográfico iniciado en 2013 en varias localidades (mercados populares en La Paz, Bolivia, y la zona franca de Iquique, norte de Chile) y en un análisis histórico de las últimas tres décadas, el objetivo ha sido comprender la conexión cada vez mayor del comercio popular boliviano con las cadenas comerciales y empresas del este asiático, específicamente de los mercados internacionales centrados en China. De este modo, se puede afirmar que en la zona franca, el proceso se caracteriza por la circulación del crédito comercial entre los distribuidores de origen asiático y los comerciantes bolivianos. Mientras que en mercados urbanos en Bolivia, las formas locales de generar confianza han sido adoptadas por todos los actores, también por las empresas transnacionales. Otro aspecto a destacar es cómo las recientes cooperaciones chino–bolivianas e inversiones chinas en Bolivia también incorporan prácticas pasadas, pero al mismo tiempo intentan fomentar cadenas comerciales racionalizadas; y como consecuencia de estos procesos, las empresas multinacionales están contribuyendo a la creciente diferenciación socio‐económica entre los comerciantes bolivianos.
Dental Shade Matching and Value Discernment Abilities of First‐Year Dental Students
Authors: Imbery Terence A. , Tran Dan , Baechle Mary A. , Hankle Jennifer L. , Janus Charles
Published: March 2018

Purpose

To determine if Farnsworth‐Munsell 100 Hue Test, Perceptual Ability Test, gender, age, ethnicity, and time predict dental shade matching and value discernment in first‐year dental students.

Materials and Methods

Farnsworth‐Munsell 100 Hue Test was administered to 95 first‐year‐dental students beneath a Judge II booth (color temperature of 6500°K, and color rendering index of 90). Students also arranged 16 masked shade tabs from a Vita Classic shade guide by value (lightest to darkest) and matched together 16 pairs of masked shade tabs from two Vita Classic shade guides. Ethnicity, age, Perceptual Ability Test scores, gender, and time to complete the tests were recorded. Associations and correlations were investigated using chi‐square, Tukey‐Kramer HSD, standard least square, and multilinear regression (p < 0.05).

Results

Total error scores on the Farnsworth‐Munsell 100 Hue Test ranged from 0 to 144. Forty‐eight students exhibited superior color acuity, 45 average, and two poor. The mean number of correct answers for matching shade tabs together was 11.6, and 6.1 for arranging the shade tabs by value. Females performed statistically better than males on the Farnsworth‐Munsell 100 Hue Test and shade tab matching. Better color discrimination identified by lower total error scores on the Farnsworth‐Munsell 100 Hue Test was directly correlated to greater ability to match shade tabs together. Perceptual Ability Test scores had slight significance. As the scores increased there was slightly better performance on the Farnsworth‐Munsell 100 Hue Test. Older participants performed better than younger subjects on the value test. No other correlations were significant for any of the tests.

Conclusions

Females and individuals who performed better on the Farnsworth‐Munsell 100 Hue Test have improved dental shade‐matching ability.
Spectrophotometric Evaluation of Anterior Maxillary Tooth Color Distribution According to Age and Gender
Authors: Karaman Tahir , Altintas Eyyup , Eser Bekir , Talo Yildirim Tuba , Oztekin Faruk , Bozoglan Alihan
Published: March 2018

Purpose

To determine the effects of age and gender on the color distribution of the right maxillary central, lateral incisors, and canine teeth.

Materials and Methods

The tooth color was measured using the VITA Easyshade V spectrophotometer with a total of 202 volunteers (89 men, 113 women). The age distribution in this study was between 15 and 70 years old (average: 31). A grey background color was used to prevent background reflection while performing the color measurements.

Results

According to the VITAPAN Classical shade guide, the tooth color distribution of the central and lateral incisors showed a maximum of A2, with a maximum of B3 for the canine teeth. When comparing the International Commission on Illumination L*, a*, and b* values (CIELab color space coordinates) of the teeth with subject gender, statistically significant differences were not found between gender and the L* and b* values (p > 0.05); however, a statistically significant difference was observed between gender and the a* values (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

When the distribution ratio of tooth color was examined, different ratios were determined based on gender and age and between the maxillary central, lateral incisors, and canine teeth. A uniform tooth color should not be chosen for anterior restorations, and factors such as gender and age should be considered when making a color selection for patients.
Decreasing house prices and household mobility: An empirical study on loss aversion and negative equity
Authors: Steegmans Joep , Hassink Wolter
Published: March 2018

This paper examines the effects of loss aversion and negative equity on household mobility. We stress the importance of studying these mechanisms simultaneously. By making use of a unique administrative data set of Statistics Netherlands, covering the period 2006–2011, we estimate the effects of loss aversion and negative equity. The results provide strong evidence for loss aversion, while less evidence is found for a lock‐in effect of negative equity. The results indicate that moderately underwater households do have a lower mobility, but heavily underwater households do not. Additional results indicate that the particularly high mobility of heavily underwater households is not default‐driven.
2D BASIN MODELLING IN THE EASTERN VARISCAN FOLD BELT (CZECH REPUBLIC): INFLUENCE OF THRUSTING ON PATTERNS OF THERMAL MATURATION
Authors: Jirman P. , Geršlová E. , Kalvoda J. , Melichar R.
Published: March 2018

This study evaluates the geothermal history of Palaeozoic sedimentary rocks from the easternmost part of the Variscan external zone in the NE Czech Republic. The objective was to investigate the geothermal history of pre‐Variscan Palaeozoic carbonates in the study area, and to assess its relationship with that of the overlying Variscan flysch. In the study area, the Palaeozoic succession occurs at the surface or is overlain by Miocene sediments of the Carpathian Foredeep. Palaeozoic nappes and the main Variscan overthrust have been documented in the subsurface at the deep Potštát‐1borehole.

Vitrinite reflectance measurements on 38 samples from the Potštát‐1 well and 19 samples from nearby surface outcrops and shallow boreholes were available. A 2D thermal model was created using PetroMod and the thermal maturity evolution was modelled by EASY%Ro. The thermal model was constructed based on interpretations of two NW‐SE seismic profiles (lines 5/83 and 5/84) oriented perpendicular to the main Variscan thrusts. The results were calibrated using measured vitrinite reflectance and were adjusted with 1D models from three shallow boreholes. At the Potštát‐1 borehole, modelled maximum palaeo‐temperatures of the Variscan flysch (Moravice Formation) ranged from 310°C at a depth of 7.3 km (the top of the preserved succession) to 395°C at the base of the succession, resulting in thermal maturities of >4%Rr. Peak maturation occurred prior to the end of Variscan thrusting. Modelling suggests that the basal heat flow for these thrust units reached a maximum value of 63 mW/m2 at 325 Ma. In addition, the modelling suggests that the maturity of the Palaeozoic carbonates was controlled by the thickness of the overlying Variscan flysch nappes. Maximum palaeo‐temperatures for the Palaeozoic carbonates ranged from 265°C at the top of the interval (at a depth of 7.1 km) to 290°C at the base, resulting in a maturity of 3.8 to >4%Rr which is within the dry gas window. The study suggests that basal heat flows in the original (pre‐thrust) Early Carboniferous sedimentary basin were slightly higher than those in the post‐thrust location for the Variscan flysch nappes. This should be taken into account when evaluating the petroleum system in the South Moravian oil province (SW Czech Republic) where a complete sedimentary sequence has not been preserved.
Isolation and identification of Sydowia polyspora and its pathogenicity on Pinus yunnanensis in Southwestern China
Authors: Pan Yue , Ye Hui , Lu Jun , Chen Peng , Zhou Xu‐Dong , Qiao Min , Yu Ze‐Fen
Published: March 2018

Sydowia polyspora occurs often as an epiphyte or endophyte of conifers and is widely distributed around the world. It is also reported as a fungus associated with bark beetles. In this study, based on ITS sequence data and morphological characteristics, 14 strains collected from the beetle bodies and galleries of Tomicus minor and Tomicus yunnanensis infesting Pinus yunnanensis in Southwestern China were identified as S. polyspora. To assess the virulence of S. polyspora to P. yunnanensis, pathogenicity tests were conducted by inoculating the fungus in the stems and on needles of P. yunnanensis. The results after 30 days showed that the lesion lengths in the phloem after inoculation with S. polyspora were significantly longer than for the control. In addition, the fungus caused partly distinct chlorisis or discolouration of needles 14 days after inoculation. This suggests that S. polyspora is able to colonize stem phloem and pine needles of P. yunnanensis and thus may cause secondary damages to this host after being spread with bark beetles.
Patients With Fragile X Syndrome Attending a Specialized Centre in Chile: Parent Satisfaction, Costs and Adherence
Authors: Faundes Víctor , Salas Isabel , Correa‐Burrows Paulina , Soto Paula , Peña María Ignacia , Pugin Ángela , Bravo Paulina , Santa María Lorena , Morales Paulina , Curotto Bianca , Aliaga Solange , Alliende María Angélica
Published: March 2018

The study aim was to evaluate the administration and achievements of a Fragile X syndrome (FXS) centre in Chile. Families with children with FXS who sought care at our centre (CDTSXF) answered a survey to evaluate parent satisfaction. We analyzed adherence to management and the costs of CDTSXF operation. The percentage of parents satisfied with CDTSXF management ranged from 38% for speech development, to 100% for general management. The financial costs covered 70% of economic costs of centre operation. Patient adherence was associated with the age at admission to CDTSXF. Low satisfaction with language development could be attributed to low treatment adherence. The CDTSXF should study different mechanisms of financing its operation, estimate the cost of FXS for families, and improve treatment adherence among older patients.
Current Representation of People With Intellectual Disability in Australian Mental Health Policy: The Need for Inclusive Policy Development
Authors: Dew Angela , Dowse Leanne , Athanassiou Ulrika , Trollor Julian
Published: March 2018

People with intellectual disability in Australia experience poor mental health, are underrepresented in mental health policy, and encounter major barriers in accessing mental health services and treatments. This study interrogated the current representation of people with intellectual disability and recommended strategies to enhance the inclusion of intellectual disability in mental health policy. A policy analysis framework was developed that included context, stakeholders, process, and content. Nine pieces of Australian mental health legislation and 37 mental health policy documents were analyzed using the framework. Fifteen of the 37 documents included mention of intellectual disability with limited attention to the specific mental health needs of people with intellectual disability and mental illness. Only two documents identified specific strategies or measurable actions and targets to improve the access of people with intellectual disability and mental illness to mental health services. The documents’ strengths that may be applied to develop inclusive intellectual disability mental health policy included being values‐based, recognizing diversity, taking a life‐course approach, focusing on workforce development, and ensuring checks and balances. An inclusive approach to the development and implementation of intellectual disability mental health policy will best meet the mental health needs of individuals with intellectual disability. An inclusive policy approach will be based on a sound evidence‐base and include a comprehensive understanding of the context in which the policy is developed; consultation with key stakeholders including people with intellectual disability and mental illness, their family and carers, and those who work with them; cross‐sector collaboration and workforce training. An inclusive approach to the development and implementation of intellectual disability mental health policy using an integrated knowledge translation approach will address the current lack of attention to the important area of how to best meet the mental health needs of individuals with intellectual disability.
Projected regional forest plant community dynamics evidence centuries‐long effects of habitat turnover
Authors: Lalechère Etienne , Jabot Franck , Archaux Frédéric , Deffuant Guillaume
Published: March 2018

Questions

Many Western European and North American countries have been experiencing strong reforestation in the last two centuries due to agricultural abandonment. Other land‐use changes, such as urbanization, can simultaneously trigger forest erosion. In this context of habitat turnover, forest understorey plant dynamics depend on the balance between immigration credit in post‐agricultural forest and extinction debt in ancient forest. The transient and final community properties following concomitant habitat creation and destruction are poorly known. In this contribution, we study the projected transient regional forest plant dynamics and identify the determinants of the relaxation duration at both landscape and patch scales.

Location

Seine‐et‐Marne region, France.

Methods

Species’ incidences are projected in 9,208 patches of the Seine‐et‐Marne region characterized by strong development of post‐agricultural forests and a moderate erosion of ancient forests during the period 1840–2000. We use a metapopulation model with static biodiversity data and landscape history to project forest plant dynamics. We focus on 33 generalist forest species that are able to colonize both ancient and post‐agricultural forests.

Results

Our analyses reveal that (1) extinction in ancient forests slows the colonization process, which lasts between 250 and 990 years after habitat turnover, depending on species characteristics; (2) the species incidence in post‐agricultural forests converges towards that in ancient forests long before the overall species incidence stabilizes at the landscape scale (i.e. long before the relaxation time); (3) landscape‐ and patch‐scale relaxation times depend on species colonization ability and patch functional connectivity; (4) the colonization process is rather slow for ancient forest species; and (5) the incidence of ancient forest species becomes larger than the incidence of other species at the end of the colonization dynamics thanks to their strong persistence.

Conclusions

Ancient forest species may potentially benefit from a large immigration credit but need centuries to use it. On such time scales, many perturbations are likely to jeopardize the realization of this potential credit.
Beyond access and benefit‐sharing: Lessons from the law and governance of agricultural biodiversity
Authors: Tsioumani Elsa
Published: March 2018

The concept of fair and equitable benefit‐sharing emerged in the early 90s as a corollary to the principle of national sovereignty over natural and genetic resources. In the context of agricultural biodiversity use, it can be conceptualized in three ways: as a defensive tool to balance the injustices enshrined in the intellectual property rights system; as a development tool to reap part of the benefits of the emerging biodiversity market; and as an incentive, to reward and enable farmers' continued contribution to conservation. This article seeks to assess the potential of the concept in operationalizing fairness and equity in agricultural biodiversity governance, in an increasingly complex legal and policy landscape of conflicting rights and policies. It briefly explains its emergence in the context of the evolving principles of governance of agricultural biodiversity; and analyses the structure and application of the Multilateral System of Access and Benefit‐sharing established by the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture in the framework of intellectual property‐ and human rights‐related processes. Identifying linkages, challenges and key lessons, which are useful for a wide range of processes within and beyond the international environmental law realm, it concludes that the concept falls short of its promises. It thus calls for imagining new dialogues and concepts to redefine the boundaries between what must remain in the public domain, what may be managed as a commons and what may be privatized.
Access to genetic resources and benefit sharing: Implications of Nagoya Protocol on providers and users
Authors: Kariyawasam Kanchana , Tsai Matthew
Published: March 2018

The Nagoya Protocol is a comprehensive framework aimed at combating biopiracy (where genetic resources are utilised without the provider State's consent or in violation of mutually agreed contractual terms), rewarding the stewardship of genetic resources and traditional knowledge, and providing a tool for sustainable development. From a holistic perspective, the Protocol is an incredible achievement; however, it rests in its legal ambiguities which have minimised the regulatory impact on user States. This article examines the key components of the Nagoya Protocol and critically analyses whether the Protocol facilitates its objective of responding to asymmetries between the interests of biodiversity‐rich countries and the users of genetic resources.
Growth, mortality and recruitment of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) in Lake Victoria, Kenya
Authors: Yongo Edwine , Agembe Simon , Outa Nicholas , Owili Monica
Published: March 2018

This study investigated the growth, mortality and recruitment of Lates niloticus in Lake Victoria basis on length–frequency data collected during the period 2014‐2015. The asymptotic length (L∞) had a value of 124 cm TL, growth curvature (K) of 0.22 year−1, total mortality (Z) of 0.96 year−1, a natural mortality (M) of 0.42 year−1, a fishing mortality (F) of 0.54 year−1, an exploitation rate (E) of 0.57 and a growth performance index () of 3.53. Logistic selection model showed that 50% of fish of 46.09 cm TL encountering the gear are retained. There were two peak recruitment periods, a minor one in March and a major one in July, accounting for 12.04% and 22.04%, respectively, of the total fish catch. The Beverton and Holt's relative yield‐per‐recruit model indicated the indices for sustainable yields are 0.32 for optimum sustainable yield (E0.5), 0.60 for maximum sustainable yield (Emax) and 0.51 for economic yield (E0.1). Compared to previous findings, there is a great decline in the sizes of Nile perch stocks in Lake Victoria. Thus, managing the fishery requires strict adherence to the slot size of 50–85 cm TL, and restrictions on illegal gear and methods, by the devolved governments through monitoring, control and surveillance in liaison with the Beach Management Units (BMUs).
Innovative optimization of ready to use food for treatment of acute malnutrition
Authors: Brixi Garyk
Published: March 2018

Treatment of acute malnutrition typically requires the provision of ready‐to‐use food (RUF). Common RUF is effective but expensive, being manufactured from costly ingredients, and shipped worldwide from few global suppliers. I developed a linear programming tool to create RUF optimized for low cost using locally grown crops while maintaining necessary nutritional goals and other constraints. My tool utilizes a database of the nutritional value, price, and water efficiency of suitable ingredients and allows adjustment of constraints, including nutrients, flavour, and crop water efficiency. It is designed to (a) address nutrient requirements conforming to current standards and practice; (b) optimize RUF formulae for low cost using a wide range of ingredients for nutritional value and acceptability improvement; (c) ensure protein quality through protein digestibility corrected amino acid score; and (d) adjust RUF formulae according to locally grown crop selection, local prices, and crop water footprint. The tool creates formulae free of expensive dairy ingredients, ensuring desired protein digestibility corrected amino acid score by automatically balancing proteins with complementary quantities of essential amino acids. Using publicly available data with an application to Nigeria, my tool created RUF formulae suitable for local production using local crops to meet all nutrient requirements at a fraction of the ingredient cost and water footprint of current formulae, demonstrating the tool's effectiveness. Optimization of RUF for low cost using locally grown crops will facilitate local production and reduce ingredient as well as transport costs, so more patients can receive lifesaving treatment.
Impaired motility in Barrett's esophagus: A study using high‐resolution manometry with physiologic challenge
Authors: Sanagapalli S. , Emmanuel A. , Leong R. , Kerr S. , Lovat L. , Haidry R. , Banks M. , Graham D. , Raeburn A. , Zarate‐Lopez N. , Sweis R.
Published: March 2018

Background

Esophageal dysmotility may predispose to Barrett's esophagus (BE). We hypothesized that high‐resolution manometry (HRM) performed with additional physiologic challenge would better delineate dysmotility in BE.

Methods

Included patients had typical reflux symptoms and underwent endoscopy, HRM with single water swallows and adjunctive testing with solids and rapid drink challenge (RDC) before ambulatory pH‐impedance monitoring. BE and endoscopy‐negative reflux disease (ENRD) subjects were compared against functional heartburn patient‐controls (FHC). Primary outcome was incidence of HRM contractile abnormalities with standard and adjunctive swallows. Secondary outcomes included clearance measures and symptom association on pH‐impedance.

Key Results

Seventy‐eight patients (BE 25, ENRD 27, FHC 26) were included. Water swallow contractility was reduced in both BE (median DCI 87 mm Hg/cm/s) and ENRD (442 mm Hg/cm/s) compared to FHC (602 mm Hg/cm/s; P < .001 and .04, respectively). With the challenge of solid swallows and RDC, these parameters improved in ENRD (solids = 1732 mm Hg/cm/s), becoming similar to FHC (1242 mm Hg/cm/s; P = .93), whereas abnormalities persisted in BE (818 mm Hg/cm/s; P < .01 c.f. FHC). In BE and ENRD, reflux events (67 vs 57 events/24 hour) and symptom frequency were similar; yet symptom correlation was significantly better in ENRD compared to BE, which was comparable to FHC (symptom index 30% vs 4% vs 0%, respectively). Furthermore, bolus clearance and exposure times were more pronounced in BE (P < .01).

Conclusions & Inferences

Reduced contractile effectiveness persisted in BE with the more representative esophageal challenge of swallowing solids and free drinking; while in ENRD and FHC peristalsis usually improved, demonstrating peristaltic reserve. Furthermore, symptom association and refluxate clearance were reduced in BE. These factors may underlie BE pathogenesis.
GIGANTEA‐like genes control seasonal growth cessation in Populus
Authors: Ding Jihua , Böhlenius Henrik , Rühl Mark Georg , Chen Peng , Sane Shashank , Zambrano Jose A. , Zheng Bo , Eriksson Maria E. , Nilsson Ove
Published: March 2018

Survival of trees growing in temperate zones requires cycling between active growth and dormancy. This involves growth cessation in the autumn triggered by a photoperiod shorter than the critical day length.

Variations in GIGANTEA (GI)‐like genes have been associated with phenology in a range of different tree species, but characterization of the functions of these genes in the process is still lacking.

We describe the identification of the Populus orthologs of GI and their critical role in short‐day‐induced growth cessation. Using ectopic expression and silencing, gene expression analysis, protein interaction and chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments, we show that PttGIs are likely to act in a complex with PttFKF1s (FLAVIN‐BINDING, KELCH REPEAT, F‐BOX 1) and PttCDFs (CYCLING DOF FACTOR) to control the expression of PttFT2, the key gene regulating short‐day‐induced growth cessation in Populus.

In contrast to Arabidopsis, in which the GI‐CONSTANS (CO)‐FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) regulon is a crucial day‐length sensor for flowering time, our study suggests that, in Populus, PttCO‐independent regulation of PttFT2 by PttGI is more important in the photoperiodic control of growth cessation and bud set.
Triple surveillance: a proposal for an integrated strategy to support and accelerate birth defect prevention
Authors: Botto Lorenzo D. , Mastroiacovo Pierpaolo
Published: March 2018

Preventing neural tube defects (NTDs) easily qualifies as a high‐value opportunity to improve childhood survival and health: the unmet need is significant (major preventable burden), the intervention is transformative (providing sufficient folic acid), and delivery strategies (e.g., fortification) are effective in low‐resource countries. Yet, NTD prevention is lagging. Can public health surveillance help fix this problem? Critics contend that surveillance is largely unnecessary, that limited resources are best spent on interventions, and that surveillance is unrealistic in developing countries. The counterargument is twofold: (1) in the absence of surveillance, interventions will provide fewer benefits and cost more and (2) effective surveillance is likely possible nearly everywhere, with appropriate strategies. As a base strategy, we propose “triple surveillance:” integrating surveillance of cause (folate insufficiency), of disease occurrence (NTD prevalence), and of health outcomes (morbidity, mortality, and disability). For better sustainability and usefulness, it is crucial to refocus and streamline surveillance activities (no recreational data collection), weave surveillance into clinical care (integrate in clinical workflow), and, later, work on including additional risk factors and pediatric outcomes (increase benefits at low marginal cost). By doing so, surveillance becomes not a roadblock but a preferential path to prevention and better care.
Enhancement of post‐orthodontic tooth stability by carbonated hydroxyapatite‐incorporated advanced platelet‐rich fibrin in rabbits
Authors: Alhasyimi A. A. , Pudyani P. P. , Asmara W. , Ana I. D.
Published: March 2018

Structured Abstract

Objective

To evaluate the effect of carbonated hydroxyapatite‐incorporated advanced platelet‐rich fibrin on relapse and bone remodelling in rabbits.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐five rabbits were divided into 3 groups (n = 15): a control group, carbonated hydroxyapatite (CHA) and carbonated hydroxyapatite‐incorporated advanced platelet‐rich fibrin (CHA‐aPRF) group. The lower incisors were subjected to an orthodontic force of 50 cN. During the retention period, CHA and CHA‐aPRF hydrogel were gently injected in the mesial gingival sulcus every 7 days. Next, the appliances were debonded to allow relapse. At 5 subsequent time points (0, 3, 7, 14 and 21 days after debonding), the distance between the mesial tips of rabbits incisors was measured using a digital calliper, osteoblast quantity was evaluated using haematoxylin‐eosin staining and osteoclast activity was examined using tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining.

Results

The relapse rate of CHA‐aPRF group was lower than that of the other groups, and the relapse distances were significantly lower on days 14 and 21 (P < .05). Histological analysis revealed that the number of osteoblasts was significantly higher and that the osteoclast activity was significantly lower in the CHA‐aPRF group compared with the other groups (P < .05).

Conclusions

Intrasulcular injection of hydrogel CHA incorporated aPRF can locally reduce orthodontic relapse in rabbits.
The spy who loved me? Cross‐partisans in the core executive
Authors: Askim Jostein , Karlsen Rune , Kolltveit Kristoffer
Published: March 2018

Political appointees from different parties from that of their minister—cross‐partisan appointees (CPAs)—are increasingly found in the core executive. Ministerial advisory scholarship has overlooked CPAs, while the coalition governance literature sees them as ‘spies’ and ‘coalition watchdogs’. This article argues theoretically and demonstrates empirically that this conceptualization is overly limited. The empirical basis is a large‐N survey of political appointees from two Norwegian coalitions, and a qualitative follow‐up survey of CPAs. The results show that CPAs monitor on behalf of their party, provide cross‐partisan advice to their minister and perform many of the same tasks as regular partisan appointees, including exercising independent decision‐making power. In this research context, most CPAs act as coalition liaison officers who, rather than create tension and negative dynamics, contribute to building trust between coalition partners.
Montague's treatment of determiner (or quantifier) phrases: A philosophical introduction
Authors: Akiba Ken
Published: March 2018

This paper introduces Richard Montague's theory of determiner (or quantifier) phrases to the philosophically oriented readers who are familiar with Russell's traditional treatment. Determiner phrases include not only quantifier phrases in the narrow sense, such as every man, some woman, and nothing, but also DP conjunctions such as Adam and Betty and Adam or Betty, and even proper names such as Adam and Betty. Montague treats all determiner phrases as belonging to type (e → t) → t, i.e., the type of functions from properties of individuals to truth values. This paper also introduces the simply typed lambda‐calculus for the explication of Montague's theory. Two major problems with Montague's theory, one more philosophical and the other more linguistic, are discussed.
Revising a conceptual model of partnership and sustainability in global health
Authors: Upvall Michele J. , Leffers Jeanne M.
Published: March 2018

Objectives

Models to guide global health partnerships are rare in the nursing literature. The Conceptual Model for Partnership and Sustainability in Global Health while significant was based on Western perspectives. The purpose of this study was to revise the model to include the voice of nurses from low‐ and middle‐resource countries.

Design and Sample

Grounded theory was used to maintain fidelity with the design in the original model. A purposive sample of 15 participants from a variety of countries in Africa, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia and having extensive experience in global health partnerships were interviewed.

Measures

Skype recordings and in‐person interviews were audiotaped using the same questions as the original study. Theoretical coding and a comparison of results with the original study was completed independently by the researchers.

Results

The process of global health partnerships was expanded from the original model to include engagement processes and processes for ongoing partnership development. New concepts of Transparency, Expanded World View, and Accompaniment were included as well as three broad themes: Geopolitical Influence, Power differential/Inequities, and Collegial Friendships.

Conclusion

The revised conceptual model embodies a more comprehensive model of global health partnerships with representation of nurses from low‐ and middle‐resource countries.
Theory to Practice: Policy Recommendations for Fostering Economic Development through Social Capital
Authors: Engbers Trent A. , Rubin Barry M.
Published: March 2018

Proponents of social capital theory have long argued not only that it is in the best interest of civic life to build social capital but also that social capital is vital for the economic health of communities. This has been confirmed by recent research showing that social capital, especially in its bridging form, is positively associated with job creation at the metropolitan statistical area level. At the same time, social capital is often viewed as something either inherent or absent within a community. This article takes on that assumption by presenting a policy‐based approach to developing social capital. It provides two theoretical explanations for how social capital affects economic development and identifies four lessons for economic development practitioners to use to enhance social capital. These research‐based recommendations for economic development practitioners and policy makers seek to improve the social capital and, consequently, the economic development of their community.
Obtaining Wisent early blastocyst in vitro is a basic for protection and creation of biodiversity for this threatened species
Authors: Duszewska AM , Gręda P , Baraniewicz M , Bielecki W , Niżański W , Partyka A , Tracz M , Nowak Z , Chełmońska‐Soyta A , Olech W
Published: March 2018

Contents

Wisent, or European bison (Bison bonasus), is listed as “vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and is therefore protected by international law. For the first time, a Wisent embryo has been obtained in vitro. This procedure creates a new opportunity to protect and increase Wisent reproductive potential and thereby opens new possibilities for the establishment of a controlled and broad reserve of the gene pool.
Endocannabinoids as endometrial inflammatory markers in lactating Holstein cows
Authors: Bonsale R , Seyed Sharifi R , Dirandeh E , Hedayat N , Mojtahedin A , Ghorbanalinia M , Abolghasemi A
Published: March 2018

Contents

The objective of this study was to consider endocannabinoid system as inflammatory markers in bovine endometrium to better understand the role of this system in regulating many of the functions that are related to inflammatory condition. At day 26 post‐partum, fourteen cows were divided into two groups depending on the inflammatory condition: 1‐ subclinical endometritis (n = 7, with purulent or mucopurulent uterine discharge detectable in the vagina) and 2‐ healthy (n = 7, No (muco)) purulent discharge. Blood samples were collected at 26 and 30 days relative to calving to determine plasma tumour necrosis factor (TNF) and lipopolysaccharide‐binding protein (LBP) concentrations; moreover, uterine biopsy was carried out on day 26 post‐partum to measure mRNA abundance of TNF, interleukin‐1B (IL1B), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8), endocannabinoid receptor (CNR2), N‐acyl phosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase D (NAPEPLD), fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), N‐acylethanolamine acid amidase (NAAA) and monoglyceride lipase (MGLL) by real‐time PCR. Results showed mean plasma concentrations of TNF and LBP were lower in healthy cows compared to subclinical endometritis cows (p < .05). Relative mRNA expression for NAAA and FAAH was decreased (p < .05), and relative mRNA expression for CNR2 and NAPEPLD increased in cows with subclinical endometritis compared to healthy cows. In conclusion, relative mRNA expression of TNF, IL1B and CXCL8 and plasma concentration of LBP increased during inflammatory condition along with decreased endocannabinoids hydrolyzing enzyme (NAAA and FAAH), increased enzymes that synthesize endocannabinoids (NAPEPLD) and relative gene expression of the endocannabinoid receptor; together, these contribute to increased endocannabinoids levels during inflammation. Overall, we provide evidence that endocannabinoid system is altered in endometrium tissue during inflammation through increased mRNA expression of CNR2 and synthesis enzyme and decreased mRNA expression of hydrolyzing enzymes interfere with pro‐cytokine production and signalling, which may interfere with the onset and progression of inflammation.
Eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) restoration in Puget Sound: development of a site suitability assessment process
Authors: Thom Ronald , Gaeckle Jeffrey , Buenau Kate , Borde Amy , Vavrinec John , Aston Lara , Woodruff Dana , Khangaonkar Tarang , Kaldy James
Published: March 2018

The restoration of eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) is a high priority in Puget Sound, Washington, United States. In 2011, the state set a restoration target to increase eelgrass area by 4,200 ha by 2020, a 20% increase over the 21,500 ha then present. In a region as large, dynamic, and complex as Puget Sound, locating areas to restore eelgrass effectively and efficiently is challenging. To identify potential restoration sites we used simulation modeling, a geodatabase for spatial screening, and test planting. The simulation model of eelgrass biomass used time series of water properties (depth, temperature, and salinity) output from a regional hydrodynamic model and empirical water clarity data to indicate growth potential. The geographic information system‐based analysis incorporated results from the simulation model, historical and current eelgrass area, substrate, stressors, and shoreline manager input into a geodatabase to screen sites for field reconnaissance. Finally, we planted eelgrass at test sites and monitored survival. We screened 2,630 sites and identified 6,292 ha of highly to very highly suitable conditions for eelgrass—ample area for meeting the 20% target. Test plantings indicated that fine‐scale data are needed to improve predictive capability. We summarized the results of our analysis for the majority of the approximately 3,220 km of shoreline in Puget Sound on maps to support restoration site selection and planning. Our approach provides a process for identifying and testing potential restoration sites and highlights information needs and management actions to reduce stressors and increase eelgrass area to meet restoration objectives.
Influence of former lynchets on soil cover structure and soil organic carbon storage in agricultural land, Central Czechia
Authors: Zádorová T. , Penížek V. , Žížala D. , Matějovský J. , Vaněk A.
Published: March 2018

Lynchets represent a traditional landscape element in agricultural landscapes having multiple functions in soil material redistribution, water retention, biodiversity and landscape character. They act as a barrier to translocated soil matter, and they can store a significant amount of soil material and soil organic carbon. Lynchets developed in many regions during formation of agriculture landscape as field boundaries or path networks. Further management led to unleveling of the fields and development of lynchets. During the 20th century, a large number of lynchets disappeared in Central and Western Europe due to land consolidation, intensification and industrialization of agriculture. This study was performed at a large agricultural study plot with dissected relief (Central Czechia) with the aim of assessing the influence of former but now completely levelled lynchets on actual soil stratigraphy, depth, soil organic carbon stocks and structure of soil units. The soil profiles in 20‐m‐long transects perpendicular to former lynchets were analysed, and statistical relationships between the positions above, in and below the former lynchets were assessed. The results showed high variability of studied soil characteristics in the areas of former lynchets. Statistically significant greater A horizon thickness (50–100 cm) and SOC stock (12.7 kg/m2) were observed in the location of a former lynchet, where colluvial soils were identified. Other areas of accumulation were identified below a lynchet, at the former break‐in‐slope. The strip above a lynchet was identified as a sediment delivery area, having a partly truncated soil profile. SOC concentration and SOC stock in A horizon did not differ significantly in the positions in, above or below a lynchet.
To separate is to sustain: Sacrifice and national belonging among East Timorese in West Timor
Authors: Damaledo Andrey
Published: March 2018

This paper examines the way the notion of sacrifice is used to reclaim national belonging and entitlements. I particularly focus my discussion on pro‐Indonesian East Timorese who left East Timor and decided to stay in West Timor after their historic referendum. The East Timorese experience of violent colonisation, military occupation, family breakdown and separation might help explain the existence of their sacrificial narratives. But I argue that such narratives evoke life histories and shared memories, which, in turn, entail the intention of displaced East Timorese to maintain an intimate relationship with their homeland and ensure a better future for their society.
The domestication of plant architecture in African rice
Authors: Hu Min , Lv Shuwei , Wu Wenguang , Fu Yongcai , Liu Fengxia , Wang Bingbing , Li Weiguo , Gu Ping , Cai Hongwei , Sun Chuanqing , Zhu Zuofeng
Published: March 2018

Plant architecture is a key agronomical factor determining crop yield and has been a major target of cereal crop domestication. The transition of plant architecture from the prostrate tiller of typical African wild rice (Oryza barthii) to the erect tiller of African cultivated rice (Oryza glaberrima) was a key step during domestication of African rice. Here we show that PROG7 (PROSTRATE GROWTH 7), a zinc‐finger transcription factor gene on chromosome 7, is required for the prostrate growth of African wild rice. Mutations in the promoter region of prog7 reduced the level of gene expression in the tiller base, leading to erect growth in African cultivated rice. Sequence comparison and haplotype analysis show that 90 varieties of cultivated rice from 11 countries carry the same mutations in the prog7 region. A strong signal in a 60‐kb genomic region was detected around the prog7 gene, suggesting that the region was under strong positive selection during the domestication process. Identification of the PROG7 gene provides new insights into the molecular basis of plant architecture in crops and facilitates investigation of the history of domestication of African rice.
Drone methodologies: Taking flight in human and physical geography
Authors: Garrett Bradley , Anderson Karen
Published: March 2018

The world of late seems oversaturated with stories about drones. These suddenly pervasive machines straddle a divide in geography, being simultaneously an important tool for proximal sensing in physical geography and technology with military origins that human geographers have critically engaged. This paper, a collaboration between a physical and a human geographer, is an exploration of the epistemological nexus that a critical drone methodology offers the discipline, and which we suggest provides a new opportunity for collaborative human/physical geography. Drawing on our own research with drones and that of others, we demonstrate how recent scholarship on vertical geographies and longstanding remote‐sensing frameworks are challenged by drone methodologies where social, environmental and technological concerns are entangled with the politics of access to proximal airspace and, in doing so, define a new conceptual atmospheric zone within the Earth's atmospheric boundary layer – the “Nephosphere” – where drone experimentation occurs. We argue that engagement with non‐military uses of drones is crucial for the discipline, now that we are entering an uncertain aerial future that will be replete with flying robots, and suggest drones are reconfiguring geographic imaginations. In short, we call on geographers to participate actively in the shaping of new drone methodologies where the values and perils of the technology can be critically debated from the starting point of the experiential, rather than the speculative.
Noninvasive prenatal paternity testing using targeted massively parallel sequencing
Authors: Qu Ning‐ , Xie Yifan , Li Haiyan , Liang Hao‐ , Lin Shaobin , Huang Erwen , Gao Jun‐ , Chen Fang‐ , Shi Yanwei , Ou Xueling
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Recent advances in massively parallel sequencing (MPS) technology have provided efficient methods for noninvasive prenatal paternity testing (NIPAT). However, a well‐accepted protocol has not been established. The present study developed an MPS‐based approach for NIPAT and compared the performance of two recently reported methods for MPS data interpretation.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We selected 1795 unlinked polymorphic single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and performed paternity analysis in 34 real parentage test cases with maternal plasma samples using the Illumina HiSeq platform. Sequencing data were interpreted by the straightforward counting method for the identification of paternal alleles and mathematical algorithms for paternity index (PI) calculation, respectively.

RESULTS

Based on the sequencing data from each family case, both of the two statistical approaches produced a significant separation between the biological father and 90 unrelated males (p < 0.0001) when sufficient effective loci were attained. Nevertheless, up to 30.82% of real paternal alleles were filtered by a predefined cutoff and resulted in insufficient effective loci, especially in plasma samples with low fetal fraction (approx. 90.60% were filtered). In contrast, the PI calculation model utilized all maternal homozygous SNPs as effective loci (approx. 40% of total SNPs) and successfully identified the correct biological father, with the log‐transformed combined PI (Lg(CPI)) value varying from 68.23 to 158.01 in each family case.

CONCLUSION

Our study illustrates that the Bayesian approach represents the better choice in NIPAT data interpretation. Further, the adoption of more informative markers (e.g., tri‐allelic SNPs, tetra‐allelic SNPs, and micro‐haplotypes) or deeper sequencing is recommended for the improvement of the testing efficiency.