bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic transition and the rise of alternative institutions
Authors: Lamberova Natalia , Sonin Konstantin
Published: July 2018

The economic transition from socialism in Russia has not resulted in the emergence of impersonal, rule‐based institutions. Instead, the natural demand for institutions that protect property rights has led to the emergence of alternative, inefficient institutions such as that of cronyism – the practice of appointing personal acquaintances of the political leader to key positions. A political leader not constrained by institutions appoints cronies, as competent subordinates are more prone to switching allegiance to a potential challenger. As competence makes a bigger difference in a rule‐based environment, such a leader has no interest in any institutional development. In a simple empirical exercise, using a dataset that covers the richest Russians, we find a positive and significant effect of direct connections to the personal circle of President Putin on the wealth of businessmen. The magnitude of the effect varies at different levels of rents available for redistribution and ‘network centrality of a businessman’: it is higher during the years of high oil prices, but is attenuated by the prominence of the businessman in the network.
Upper jaw development in the absence of teeth: New insights for craniodental evo‐devo integration
Authors: Phen Alyssa , Greer Justine , Uppal Jasmene , Der Jasmine , Boughner Julia C.
Published: July 2018

In p63‐null mice (p63−/−), teeth fail to form but the mandible forms normally; conversely, the upper jaw skeleton is malformed. Here we explored whether lack of dental tissues contributed to midfacial dysmorphologies in p63−/− mice by testing if facial prominence defects appeared before odontogenesis failed. We also investigated gene dose effects by testing if one wild type (WT) p63 allele (p63+/−) was sufficient for normal upper jaw skeleton formation. We micro‐CT scanned PFA‐fixed p63−/−, p63+/−, and WT (p63+/+) adult and embryonic mice aged E10–E14. Next, we landmarked mandibular (MdP), maxillary (MxP) and nasal prominences (NPs), and facial bones. 3D landmark data were assessed using Principal Component, Canonical Variate, Partial Least Squares, and other statistical analyses. The p63−/− embryos showed MxP and NP malformations by E12, despite the presence of dental tissues. MdP shape was comparable among p63−/−, p63+/−, and p63+/+ embryos. Upper jaw shape was comparable between p63+/+ and p63+/− adults. The upper jaw and its dentition both require p63 signaling, but not each other's presence, to form properly. One WT p63 allele enables normal midfacial morphogenesis; gene dose may be a target for jaw macroevolution. Jaw‐specific genetic mechanisms likely integrate the evo‐devo of dentitions with upper versus lower jaws.
Distinct changes in composition of soil organic matter with length of cropping time in subsoils of a Phaeozem and Chernozem
Authors: Zhang Y.‐L. , Li L.‐J. , Yao S.‐H. , Mao J.‐D. , Schmidt‐Rohr K. , Olk D. C. , Cao X.‐Y. , Cui J.‐F. , Zhang B.
Published: July 2018

Deeper soil horizons might provide an opportunity to enhance C sequestration because soil organic matter (SOM) at depth is assumed to be stable. However, it is unknown whether the stable composition of organic carbon in subsoils changes with the length of cropping time and the type of soil. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects on the chemical structures of SOM of cropping time after conversion from grassland to arable land under a Phaeozem and Chernozem in northeast China. Near‐quantitative multiple cross‐polarization (multiCP)13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was applied, and 11 types of carbon (C) functional groups were identified. Principal component analysis of these functional groups showed that the chemical composition of SOM was differentiated by soil type and depth. The Phaeozem and Chernozem profiles differed mainly in their relative proportions of aromatic C–C and (CH2)ngroups: the Phaeozem contained relatively more aromatic C–C, whereas the Chernozem contained relatively more (CH2)ngroups. The fused‐ring aromatic C–C carbon was probably derived from char‐like organic matter generated by burning of plant litter or from SOM humification, whereas the (CH2)ngroups were likely to be from plant‐ or microbially‐derived residues. The main differences between top‐ and sub‐soils were the occurrence of more protonated C in the topsoils and more non‐protonated C in the subsoils. With increasing length of cropping time, aromatic C–C and C–O groups and COO/N–C=O groups increased, but (CH2)ngroups decreased in the Phaeozem subsoils and increased in the Chernozem subsoils. Our findings suggested that leaching and soil moisture might influence the origin, redistribution and transformation of the recalcitrant components of SOM in the soil profile, resulting in changes in SOM composition under different climates and soil types.

Highlights

Characterization of chemical structures of soil organic matter (SOM) in soil profiles by solid‐state13C NMR

SOM composition varied between a Phaeozem and Chernozem and to a larger extent in the subsoils

Fused‐ring aromatics and (CH2)ngroups accumulated in subsoils of the Phaeozem and Chernozem, respectively

SOM composition of subsoil changed probably with precipitation‐controlled translocation or transformation
Simultaneous determination of soil bulk density and water content: a heat pulse‐based method
Authors: Lu Y. , Horton R. , Ren T.
Published: July 2018

Soil bulk density (ρb) and volumetric water content (θ) determine the volume fractions of soil solids, water and air, and influence mass and energy transfer in soil. It is desirable to monitorρbandθconcurrently and non‐destructively. We present a heat pulse‐based method for simultaneous determination ofρbandθfrom soil thermal properties. The method uses equations that relateρbandθto soil volumetric heat capacity (C) and to soil thermal conductivity (λ). We developed a three‐step procedure to calculateρbandθfromCandλmeasured by a heat pulse sensor, with soil texture and specific heat of soil solids knowna priori. Laboratory evaluation of soil samples with various textures showed that the three‐step method provided reliable estimates ofρbandθatθvalues greater than the critical water content (θc) whenλstarted to respond notably to increases inθ. This method provides a new way to determineρbandθsimultaneously with heat pulse sensors.

Highlights

We developed an approach to determine soil bulk density (ρb) and water content (θ) simultaneously with a heat pulse sensor.

We estimatedρbandθfrom soil thermal properties based on heat capacity and thermal conductivity models.

The new approach provided reliableρbandθvalues at water contents >θc, the critical value.

At θ < θc, the approach gave unstable results because soil thermal conductivity was insensitive to ρb.
Is the adsorption of soil organic matter to haematite (α‐Fe2O3) temperature dependent?
Authors: Nguyen M. L. , Hockaday W. C. , Lau B. L. T.
Published: July 2018

Soil organic matter interactions with minerals are a key determinant in the long‐term protection and sequestration of carbon in soils and sediments. Climate warming could potentially alter the dynamics of the Earth's largest carbon pools through processes controlling the formation of mineral–organic associations (MOAs). We studied the adsorption of Elliott soil humic acid (HA) and fulvic acid (FA) to the iron oxide mineral haematite (α‐Fe2O3) at temperatures from 15 to 35°C through batch sorption experiments. The ΔG°, ΔH° and ΔS° of sorption were derived for HA and FA and suggested that formation of MOAs was spontaneous and exothermic. The Langmuir sorption coefficients for HA and FA decreased with warming, but the maximum sorption capacities were not temperature dependent. The decrease in sorption coefficient was less when the temperature was increased from 30 to 35°C than from 15 to 30°C. Our infrared, ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy analysis of the bound and unbound HA and FA revealed preferential adsorption of oxygen‐ and hydrogen‐substituted aromatic and aliphatic carbon, which was independent of temperature. The adsorption of a hydrophobic probe molecule, Rose Bengal, to haematite increased with warming. Our results suggest that (i) MOAs in warmer climates might be less sensitive to temperature changes, (ii) the amount of iron oxide‐associated organic matter might remain unchanged with warming and (iii) hydrophobic interactions with iron oxides may be temperature dependent.

Highlights

How does temperature affect the formation of soil organic matter–iron oxide associations?

Warming can change the sorption of organic matter on to minerals thus altering carbon dynamics

Warming decreases sorption coefficients, but does not affect maximum sorption capacities

The amount of iron oxide-associated organic matter might remain unchanged with warming
Nonlinear dynamics and noise in fisheries recruitment: A global meta‐analysis
Authors: Munch Stephan B. , Giron‐Nava Alfredo , Sugihara George
Published: July 2018

The relative importance of environmental and intrinsic controls on recruitment in fishes has been studied for over a century. Despite this, we are not much closer to predicting recruitment. Rather, recent analyses suggest that recruitment is virtually independent of stock size and, instead, seems to occur in distinct environmental regimes. This issue of whether or not recruitment and subsequent production are coupled to stock size is highly relevant to management. Here, we apply empirical dynamical modelling (EDM) to a global database of 185 fish populations to address the questions of whether or not variation in recruitment is (a) predictable and (b) coupled to stock size. We find that a substantial fraction of recruitment variation is predictable using only the observed history of fluctuations (~40% on average). In addition, although recruitment is often coupled to stock size (107 of 185 stocks), stock size alone explains very little of the variation in recruitment; In ~90% of the stocks analysed, EDM forecasts have substantially lower prediction error than models based solely on stock size. We find that predictability varies across taxa and improves with the number of generations that have been sampled. In the light of these results, we suggest that EDM will be of greatest use in managing relatively short‐lived species.
Dependency of Antarctic zooplankton species on ice algae‐produced carbon suggests a sea ice‐driven pelagic ecosystem during winter
Authors: Kohlbach Doreen , Graeve Martin , Lange Benjamin A. , David Carmen , Schaafsma Fokje L. , van Franeker Jan Andries , Vortkamp Martina , Brandt Angelika , Flores Hauke
Published: July 2018

How the abundant pelagic life of the Southern Ocean survives winter darkness, when the sea is covered by pack ice and phytoplankton production is nearly zero, is poorly understood. Ice‐associated (“sympagic”) microalgae could serve as a high‐quality carbon source during winter, but their significance in the food web is so far unquantified. To better understand the importance of ice algae‐produced carbon for the overwintering of Antarctic organisms, we investigated fatty acid (FA) and stable isotope compositions of 10 zooplankton species, and their potential sympagic and pelagic carbon sources. FA‐specific carbon stable isotope compositions were used in stable isotope mixing models to quantify the contribution of ice algae‐produced carbon (αIce) to the body carbon of each species. Mean αIce estimates ranged from 4% to 67%, with large variations between species and depending on the FA used for the modelling. Integrating the αIce estimates from all models, the sympagic amphipod Eusirus laticarpus was the most dependent on ice algal carbon (αIce: 54%–67%), and the salp Salpa thompsoni showed the least dependency on ice algal carbon (αIce: 8%–40%). Differences in αIce estimates between FAs associated with short‐term vs. long‐term lipid pools suggested an increasing importance of ice algal carbon for many species as the winter season progressed. In the abundant winter‐active copepod Calanus propinquus, mean αIce reached more than 50% in late winter. The trophic carbon flux from ice algae into this copepod was between 3 and 5 mg C m−2 day−1. This indicates that copepods and other ice‐dependent zooplankton species transfer significant amounts of carbon from ice algae into the pelagic system, where it fuels the food web, the biological carbon pump and elemental cycling. Understanding the role of ice algae‐produced carbon in these processes will be the key to predictions of the impact of future sea ice decline on Antarctic ecosystem functioning.
The baby business booms: Economic geographies of assisted reproduction
Authors: Schurr Carolin
Published: July 2018

This paper explores how reproductive life has changed through the development, transnational spread, and commercialization of assisted reproductive technologies (in vitro fertilization, gamete donation, and surrogacy). (Economic) geography has been slow to take up the vibrant debates in anthropology, sociology, gender studies, and other neighboring disciplines on assisted reproductive technologies and their effects on society, kinship, and reproduction. In this paper, I argue that an analysis of the fast‐growing transnational market of assisted reproduction has much to gain from economic geographies with their interest in the making of markets across borders and feminist economic geographers' engagement with how new forms of gendered and racialized divisions of labor intersect with particular economic, cultural, political, and social contexts. I discuss literature on assisted reproductive technologies and their transnational economies against the background of these two issues—the transnational making of fertility markets and the global division of reproductive labor along axes of gender, race, class, and nationality. The conclusion points out the need for articulatinggeographies of assisted reproductionthat integrate a geographic perspective into the study of assisted reproductive technologies andreproductive economic geographiesthat push the boundaries of economic geography towards the economies of (assisted) reproduction.
Factors that promote new or continuous participation in social group activity among Japanese community‐dwelling older adults: A 2‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Nemoto Yuta , Nonaka Kumiko , Hasebe Masami , Koike Takashi , Minami Ushio , Murayama Yoh , Murayama Hiroshi , Matsunaga Hiroko , Fukaya Taro , Kobayashi Erika , Maruo Kazushi , Fujiwara Yoshinori
Published: July 2018

Aim

Identifying factors that influence participation in social group activities in older adults might be helpful in promoting social participation in this population. We examined factors related to new or continuous participation in social group activities according to group type.

Methods

We carried out a community‐based, longitudinal study with a 2‐year follow‐up period. Of 7608 older adults aged ≥65 years, 3380 completed the follow‐up survey and were included in the analysis. We examined private group (hobbies, sports and volunteering; PrG) and public group (neighborhood associations and senior citizen clubs; PuG) activity.

Results

For PrG, 39.6% of the participants were engaged at baseline, 25.5% initiated participation and 9.5% withdrew during the study period. For PuG, 20.8% of the participants were engaged at baseline, 10.8% initiated participation and 31.5% withdrew during the study period. Logistic regression analysis showed mental health, self‐rated health, employment, relationships with neighbors, subjective economic status, educational attainment and participation in PuG were related to new participation in PrG. Mental health, employment and relationships with neighbors were significantly related to continuous participation. For PuG, mental health, sex and relationships with neighbors were significantly related to new participation, whereas sex, relationships with neighbors and educational attainment were related to continuous participation.

Conclusions

The rate of new and continuous participation in PrG was higher than that in PuG, and different related factors were identified as existing between social group types. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1259–1266.
Carotenoid profile produced by Bacillus licheniformis Rt4M10 isolated from grapevines grown in high altitude and their antioxidant activity
Authors: Cohen Ana C. , Dichiara Elisa , Jofré Viviana , Antoniolli Andrea , Bottini Rubén , Piccoli Patricia
Published: July 2018

Bacillus licheniformis (BL) strains are used for industrial production of exoenzymes, antibiotics and secondary metabolites, and also serve as probiotics. Some strains sequester heavy metals, promoting plant growth or inducing plant systemic resistance against stresses. However, investigations on the biological functions and applicability of carotenoids produced by BL had been less studied. In this study, the carotenoid profile produced by BL Rt4M10 was characterised during the accumulation period of culture and in response to diphenylamine (DPA), inhibitor of carotenoid biosynthesis. The antioxidant scavenging capacities of the carotenoid extracts against oxidative reactions inside the microbial cell and in vitro were also evaluated. Eighteen different carotenoids were analysed; their profile was modified along bacterial growth. DPA decreased carotenoid production by 70%, as well as the cells’ survival in hydrogen peroxide and the antioxidant capacity, thus demonstrating the role of carotenoids from Rt4M10 in oxidative stress.
The effect of sarcoplasmic protein phosphorylation on glycolysis in postmortem ovine muscle
Authors: Chen Li , Li Zheng , Li Xin , Chen Jing , Everaert Nadia , Zhang Dequan
Published: July 2018

Protein phosphorylation is a key modulator in glycolysis metabolism and regulates the activity of glycometabolic enzymes. The phosphorylation levels of sarcoplasmic proteins were investigated in relationship to the glycolysis rate in postmortem ovine muscle in the present study. The global phosphorylation levels of sarcoplasmic proteins increased early postmortem and then decreased afterwards in postmortem ovine muscle. Protein bands of different phosphorylation levels were identified as glycometabolism‐related enzymes. The phosphorylation levels of Glycogen phosphorylase and Pyruvate kinase maybe one possible reason for the different glycolytic rates at 0.5 h postmortem. The glycolytic rate attributes were negatively correlated with four bands which were probably phosphofructokinase, enolase and adenylate kinase isoenzyme. In summary, the phosphorylation of sarcoplasmic proteins is related to muscle pH decline early postmortem, influencing the meat rigour mortis and quality development.
Optimal strategy and cost sharing of free gift cards in a retailer power supply chain
Authors: Li Yuefeng , Pan Jingming , Tang Xiaowo
Published: July 2018

Many retailers and manufacturers issue “free” gift cards to consumers who purchase qualifying products. These gift cards are paid for by the retailer or manufacturer and redeemed on certain products at the retailer. We develop a decentralized two‐product supply chain in which the retailer is a Stackelberg leader. We analyze three models: no gift cards, manufacturer‐sponsored gift cards, and retailer‐sponsored gift cards. By comparing these three models, we show that offering retail‐sponsored gift cards is the optimal strategy in such a supply chain. We analyze the influences of product value and redemption rate on the optimal policy and the expected profits. We show that the retailer, two manufacturers, and consumers are better off in such an optimal strategy. Furthermore, we develop a cost‐sharing mechanism based on the result of retailer‐sponsored gift cards by taking reasonableness and fairness into consideration. Finally, we extend our study by considering changed wholesale prices and retailer prices and a pair of complements with gift cards in the models of manufacturer‐sponsored gift cards and retailer‐sponsored gift cards, and we obtain some useful insights.
Eu3+‐doped CsPbBr1.5I1.5 quantum dots glasses: A strong competitor among red fluorescence solid materials
Authors: Yuan Rongrong , Liu Jianming , Zhang Huiling , Zhang Zelong , Shao Guangzhan , Liang Xiaojuan , Xiang Weidong
Published: July 2018

CsPbBr1.5I1.5 quantum dots (QDs) glasses are synthesized by traditional melting and thermal treated method, CsPbBr1.5I1.5 QDs glasses show vast potential as red fluorescence component in warm WLED applications due to their moderate emission wavelength as well as good opacity property. However, the quantum yield of QDs glasses is still low, therefore, Eu3+ ions is chosen to introduce into CsPbBr1.5I1.5 QDs, the quantum yield is enhanced to 64.7%. After a sequence of testing operations, we find that 6.5%CsPbBr1.5I1.5:0.28%Eu3+ QDs glasses is a strong competitor among red fluorescence solid materials.
Staff members and managers’ views of the conditions for the participation of adults with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities
Authors: Talman Lena , Wilder Jenny , Stier Jonas , Gustafsson Christine
Published: July 2018

Background

Participation is a central aspect of quality of life, and it is indicative of high‐quality outcomes for people with intellectual disabilities. However, participation is difficult to achieve for adults with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities.

Aim

To describe staff members’ perceptions of what participation means for adults with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities.

Method

Using a phenomenographic approach, 27 interviews were analysed resulting in variations in the conditions for participation.

Results

The interviews revealed conditions for participation at individual, staff and organisational levels.

Conclusion

Participation appears to be an un‐reflected phenomenon, and several conditions must be met to achieve it. The conditions are experienced being fundamental for adults within the target group to achieve any kind of participation. The staff members and managers’ perceptions of participation as conditional can make it more difficult for adults within the target group to achieve the Swedish disability policy goal of participation.
Using biotic interactions in broad‐scale estimates of species’ distributions
Authors: Gherghel Iulian , Brischoux François , Papeş Monica
Published: July 2018

Aim

To examine the combined effect of abiotic and biotic factors on species distributions in a marine environment. Specifically, we aim to account for the effects of trophic interactions at broad scales in ecological niche models (ENMs) of sea kraits (Laticauda: Reptilia) by including the potential distribution of food resources as predictor variables.

Location

Oceania and Southeast Asia.

Methods

First, we outline a simple method to generate biotic interaction variables for ENMs. We then test whether ENMs that include biotic interactions perform better than ENMs based on abiotic variables only.

Results

The models based on biotic interactions (i.e. trophic interactions) and abiotic variables slightly outperformed the models informed only by abiotic variables. We found a strong relationship between prey species richness and probability of distribution of predator (sea kraits). The models that included potential distributions of prey species as predictor variables showed an increase in proportion of pixels predicted present and a decrease in omission error, compared with models based only on abiotic variables.

Main conclusions

Distribution estimates of predator species at broad scales are more accurate if calibration of ENMs includes relevant biotic variables (prey species richness, in this study). Hence, when data are available, biotic variables should be included in ENMs.
Choice between phylogram and chronogram can have a dramatic impact on the location of phylogenetic diversity hotspots
Authors: Elliott Meg J. , Knerr Nunzio J. , Schmidt‐Lebuhn Alexander N.
Published: July 2018

Aim

Biodiversity is declining rapidly at a global scale, fuelling the need for urgent conservation action. With limited resources available, areas for conservation often need to be prioritized. Phylo‐diversity metrics such as phylogenetic diversity (PD) and phylogenetic endemism (PE) combine phylogenies and spatial distribution data and can be used to rank candidate areas for conservation. Phylogenetic trees underlying phylo‐diversity metrics are available in two main forms, phylograms and chronograms. We examined the use of these two types of phylogenies in spatial studies and tested whether there is a difference in the resultant hotspot localities when employing either for analysing the same dataset.

Location

Australia and New Zealand.

Methods

We reanalysed three published datasets and one new dataset of geocoded species presence data and DNA sequence data. In all cases, we inferred first a phylogram and then time‐calibrated it to keep tree topology constant. We conducted spatial analyses with equal area grid cells and compared the distribution of PD and PE hotspots (top 5% values) as well as Categorical Analysis of Neo‐ and Palaeo‐Endemism between phylogram and chronogram.

Results

We found that both types of trees were frequently used in spatial studies but that there is no explicit discussion in the relevant community about either choice. Differences in the locations of hotspots between phylogram and chronogram ranged from 11% to 91%, with no clear correlation between tree shape and effect size.

Main conclusions

We demonstrate for the first time that in some cases the choice between phylogram and chronogram can have a dramatic effect on the resulting hotspot distributions. Branch lengths of phylograms indicate divergence in features (or at least in those used to infer the phylogeny), while those of chronograms indicate time since divergence. The interpretation of the resulting phylo‐diversity hotspots should reflect this difference.
Formation of rivers and mountains drives diversification of primitively segmented spiders in continental East Asia
Authors: Xu Xin , Kuntner Matjaž , Liu Fengxiang , Chen Jian , Li Daiqin
Published: July 2018

Aim

Complex topography in continental East Asia mirrors geological events such as formation of rivers and mountains, but to what extent these events drive diversification remains underexplored. We address this question by testing vicariant hypotheses using the primitively segmented spider genera Sinothela and Ganthela, focusing on diversification within Sinothela.

Location

Continental East Asia.

Methods

We employ a three‐way test of six vicariant hypotheses derived from river and mountain formation: (a) phylogenetically, we evaluate the sister group relationships of lineages on either side of each barrier; (b) chronologically, we estimate the timing of splits in a time calibrated phylogenetic framework; (c) biogeographically, we infer whether each of these splits shows a reduction in ancestral areas.

Results

Three‐way tests fully support five barrier formation events: (a) the Oligocene–Miocene origin of Sinothela + Ganthela coincides with the 23–36.5 Ma range of the Yangtze River formation; (b) the Sinothela split into lineages on each side of the Qinling–Dabie mountains overlaps with the estimated uplift (2.6–23 Ma); (c) the origin of lineages on each side of Taihang Mts fits its hypothesized uplift (3.6–5.3 Ma); (d) the origin of lineages on each side of mid‐lower Yellow River supports the timing of its formation (1.8–3.6 Ma); (e) lineages on each side of the Yellow River eastern Ordos bend coincide with its origin (1.6 Ma). However, the Taishan Mts uplift as barrier formation is only partially supported.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest vicariant origins of Sinothela and provide evidence for continental‐wide vicariant events that have shaped these spiders’ evolutionary history in continental East Asia. Our study also highlights how dated molecular phylogenies can narrow down too widely estimated time intervals of river and mountain formation by geologists. Primitively segmented spiders thus provide an excellent model for exploring how geological events shape biodiversity.
Effects of the prebiotic mannan oligosaccharide on the experimental periodontitis in rats
Authors: Levi Yara L. A. S. , Novais Gabriela S. , Dias Raisa B. , Andraus Rodrigo A. C. , Messora Michel R. , Neto Hermann B. , Ervolino Edilson , Santinoni Carolina S. , Maia Luciana P.
Published: July 2018

Aim

To evaluate the effect of the prebiotic (PREB) mannan oligosaccharide (MOS) on the progression of the experimental periodontitis (EP) and intestinal morphology in rats.

Materials and Methods

Forty rats were randomly allocated into groups (n = 10): C (control), PREB, EP and EP‐PREB. Groups PREB and EP‐PREB received MOS incorporated into the feed daily. After 30 days, groups EP and EP‐PREB received a cotton ligature around their mandibular first molars, kept for 14 days. Morphometrical, histomorphometrical, microcomputed tomography, gene expression analyses and immunohistochemistry were performed. Data were statistically analysed (p < 0.05).

Results

Group EP‐PREB showed less interproximal bone loss, area without bone in the furcation and bone porosity, and greater bone mineral density than group EP (p < 0.05). It was also observed a significant decrease in IL‐10 and IFN‐γ gene expression, besides a decrease in TNF‐α and IL‐1β and an increase in TGF‐β immunolabeling score for group EP‐PREB. Group EP‐PREB also presented villous height and crept depth values similar to group C, while group EP presented reduced values (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

It can be concluded that the oral administration of MOS promotes a protective effect against alveolar bone loss caused by EP in rats, modifying histologic and immune‐inflammatory parameters, in addition to protecting the intestine.
The scope and conventions of evidence‐based medicine need to be widened to deal with “too much medicine”
Authors: Llewelyn Huw
Published: July 2018

In order that evidence‐based medicine can prevent “too much medicine”, it has to provide evidence in support of “gold standard” findings for use as diagnostic criteria, on which the assessment of other diagnostic tests and the outcomes of randomized controlled trials depend. When the results of such gold standard tests are numerical, cut‐off points have to be positioned, also based on evidence, to identify those in whom offering a treatment can be justified. Such a diagnosis depends on eliminating conditions that mimic the one to be treated. The distributions of the candidate gold standard test results in those with and without the required outcome of treatment are then used with Bayes rule to create curves that show the probabilities of the outcome with and without treatment. It is these curves that are used to identify a cut‐off point for offering a treatment to a patient and also to inform the patient's decision to accept or reject the suggested treatment. This decision is arrived at by balancing the probabilities of beneficial outcomes against the probabilities of harmful outcomes and other costs. The approach is illustrated with data from a randomized controlled trial on treating diabetic albuminuria with an angiotensin receptor blocker to prevent the development of the surrogate end‐point of “biochemical nephropathy”. The same approach can be applied to nonsurrogate outcomes such as death, disability, quality of life, relief of symptoms, and their prevention. Those with treatment‐justifying diagnoses such as “diabetic albuminuria” usually form part of a broader group such as “type 2 diabetes mellitus”. Any of these can be made the subject of evidence‐based differential diagnostic strategies.
Nutrition and Food Choice: Home vs. Restaurants
Authors: Binkley James K.
Published: July 2018

Using the USDA Healthy Eating Index, a nutrition index based on nutrient profiling, and a measure of calorie density, we compare the healthiness of food choices at home and away from home by two samples of consumers. Along with simple statistical procedures, we use a method employed by financial economists to evaluate mutual fund performance. Data are from the 2009–2010 and 2013–2014 NHANES food surveys. We find that consumers with healthier home diets tend to show less attention to nutrition when away from home. While this may reflect a lack of nutrition knowledge, we suggest they are also a reflection of deliberate choice, of regarding restaurant eating as a “treat,” as at least one survey has shown.
Salivary S100A8/A9 in Sjögren's syndrome accompanied by lymphoma
Authors: Jazzar Ahoud A. , Shirlaw Penelope J. , Carpenter Guy H. , Challacombe Stephen J. , Proctor Gordon B.
Published: July 2018

Background

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease that affects the exocrine glands. The absence of early diagnostic markers contributes to delays in its diagnosis. Identification of changes in the protein profile of saliva is considered one of the promising strategies for the discovery of new biomarkers for SS.

Objective

To identify salivary protein biomarkers with potential for use in discriminating between different lymphoma risk subgroups of SS.

Method

Parotid and whole mouth saliva samples were collected from patients with SS, including those in subgroups at higher risk of developing or with confirmed lymphoma, non‐SS sicca disease controls and healthy subjects. An initial proteomics analysis by mass spectrometry (LCMSMS) identified S100A8/A9 as a biomarker and was followed by validation with an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Significant differences were found in levels of S100A8/A9 in parotid saliva but not whole mouth saliva between patients with SS compared with healthy and disease control subjects (P = 0.001 and 0.031, respectively). Subgroups of patients with SS based on lymphoma risk showed significant differences in salivary levels of S100A8/A9.

Conclusion

The results suggest that salivary levels of S100A8/A9 can aid in differentiating between SS, disease control and healthy control subjects, especially the subgroups of SS with lymphoma or at higher risk of lymphoma.
The efficacy of polidocanol sclerotherapy in mucocele of the minor salivary gland
Authors: Liu Jian‐Lin , Zhang An‐Qi , Jiang Li‐Cheng , Li Ke‐Yi , Liu Feng‐Zhen , Yuan Dao‐Ying , Xu Kai , Fan Qing‐Chun , Liu Xian‐Bin , Zou Bo , Meng Zheng , Feng Yuan , Zhang Bin
Published: July 2018

Objectives

Mucocele of the minor salivary gland is usually caused when the duct is injured, mucus leaks into the tissue space and the mucous gland are obstructed, which lead to cystic lesion formation and dilatation. Currently, there are multiple therapeutic methods available with various outcomes. This study aims to provide clinical evidence of polidocanol sclerotherapy for the treatment of mucocele of the minor salivary gland.

Methods

In this study, we injected polidocanol into 112 patients who were diagnosed with mucocele of the minor salivary gland and evaluated the treatment efficacy and safety systematically.

Results

Of the 122 cases, 102 cases were cured, eight cases showed remarkable remission, and two cases had partial remission. No recurrence was found during follow‐up, and none of the cases showed an invalid effect, resulting in a total cure rate of 91.07%. No severe side effects were observed during treatment or the follow‐up period. No significant difference in efficacy between different genders was found (P = 0.490). Polidocanol sclerotherapy for mucocele on the lower lip was more effective compared to mucocele on the inferior surface of the lingual apex (P = 0.035).

Conclusion

Polidocanol sclerotherapy showed satisfying curative effects for mucocele of the minor salivary gland without causing side effects of anesthesia, trauma, or severe pain.
Neuroticism confers vulnerability in response to experimentally induced feelings of thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness: Implications for suicide risk
Authors: Hartley Elise L. , Stritzke Werner G. K. , Page Andrew C. , Blades Caroline A. , Parentich Kylee T.
Published: July 2018

Objective

This study investigated the role of individual differences in neuroticism in conferring increased reactivity to the interpersonal antecedents for suicide proposed by the interpersonal theory of suicide.

Method

Undergraduate students (N = 113) were screened and selected to form high (n = 58) and low (n = 55) neuroticism groups, and an experimental computer task was used to manipulate participants’ experience of thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness. Participants’ self‐reported desire to persist in the face of this induced interpersonal adversity was measured.

Results

Results indicate that high neuroticism confers increased reactivity to the experimental induction of the interpersonal antecedents of suicidal ideation: Thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness. Furthermore, this vulnerability corresponds to a diminished desire to persist with the task in the face of interpersonal adversity.

Conclusions

Neuroticism confers vulnerability for suicidal desire via an increased reactivity to the proximal, causal risk factors proposed by the interpersonal theory of suicide. This has implications for considering how personality risk factors such as neuroticism may interact with proximal interpersonal risk factors to increase suicidal ideation.
Integrating whole trait theory and self‐determination theory
Authors: Prentice Mike , Jayawickreme Eranda , Fleeson William
Published: July 2018

We explore and explicate some promising points of integration between self‐determination theory (SDT) and whole trait theory (WTT). Integrating SDT and WTT can offer an example for navigating challenges that have long confronted integrating trait‐descriptive and motivational‐explanatory views of personality. We review SDT and WTT in turn. The review of SDT is organized around the emergence of its six mini‐theories. The review of WTT will introduce the descriptive and explanatory elements as aspects of whole traits, and it will also provide a functional view of traits as tools for goal pursuit. For integrating the two, we point out the many instances in which SDT motivational concepts are interpretive or goal activation processes that act as intermediaries between the inputs and outputs WTT describes. Because WTT has focused on outputs as trait manifestations, we can begin to link SDT’s need satisfaction processes to traits and their manifestations. This integration leads to a key proposition that traits are tools for satisfying basic psychological needs; basic psychological needs can (partially) explain traits. This then paves the way to novel research questions.
Similarity of vocational interest profiles within families: A person‐centered approach for examining associations between circumplex profiles
Authors: Etzel Julian M. , Lüdtke Oliver , Wagner Jenny , Nagy Gabriel
Published: July 2018

Objective

Our study addressed three questions concerning the similarity of vocational interests within families: (a) How similar are vocational interests of mothers and fathers? (b) How similar are vocational interests of parents and their children? (c) Is the inference about parent–child profile similarity affected by mother–father profile similarity?

Method

Data from N=1,624 tenth graders and their parents were used to analyze interest profile similarity by means of a pseudo‐coupling approach. Similarity was assessed on the level of observed profiles and model‐based circumplex profiles.

Results

Interest profiles of mother–father and parent–child dyads were more similar to each other than those of corresponding arbitrarily paired dyads. However, when the similarity between the parents’ interest profiles was accounted for, only same‐sex parent–child dyads were more similar to each other than would be expected by chance. All findings were mirrored on the level of observed profiles and model‐based circumplex profiles.

Conclusions

In sum, our findings support the validity of the circumplex model of vocational interests and emphasize the benefits of explicitly considering its implications when analyzing profile similarity. Moreover, we were able to show that the statistical evaluation of profile similarities must account for normative profile components.
Coping trajectories in emerging adulthood: The influence of temperament and gender
Authors: Jenzer Tiffany , Read Jennifer P. , Naragon‐Gainey Kristin , Prince Mark A.
Published: July 2018

Objective

The study of coping has far‐reaching implications for understanding psychopathology and resilience, as well as for the treatment of psychological disorders. Developmental work has examined how the ability to cope changes across time in children and adolescents; however, work in emerging adulthood is still lacking. Coping is thought to emerge from basic biological and psychological processes, such as temperament and gender, which may influence the trajectory of coping use over time.

Method

Using a sample of college students (N = 1,000), our 4‐year longitudinal study with yearly assessments sought to (a) examine the trajectory of coping styles in emerging adulthood and to (b) examine the influence of temperament and gender on these coping trajectories.

Results

Our findings suggest that young adults’ use of avoidance strategies decreased slightly over college, whereas the use of approach strategies and social support seeking remained stable. Temperament (BIS/BAS) and gender were related to certain coping styles at baseline and appeared to have an influence on some of these trajectories over time, though these associations were complex.

Conclusions

This work may inform intervention research attempting to promote adaptive coping because it may help identify young adults most in need of such interventions.
Performance, behavior and offspring morphology may offset reproductive costs of male‐typical ornamentation for female lizards
Authors: Assis B. A. , Swierk L. , Langkilde T.
Published: July 2018

Females of sexually dimorphic species that bear male‐typical secondary sexual traits, such as male ornaments, may incur costs. However, in some species, ornamented females can be found in high numbers, suggesting that they may experience benefits that offset these costs. Some female fence lizards (Sceloporus undulatus) possess blue badges that are similar to, but less dramatic than, those displayed by males during courtship and dominance contests. Females bearing these badges have reduced reproductive investment and are less desirable as mates, costs that are difficult to reconcile with the high prevalence of this trait (up to 95% of females) in some populations. To test the hypothesis that there are potential benefits associated with male‐typical ornamentation in females, we compared fitness‐relevant performance, behavior and morphology of ornamented and unornamented female fence lizards and their offspring. Ornamented females achieved faster sprinting speeds and had offspring that were more likely to flee from predatory attacks and had longer bodies; these traits are associated with higher survival in this species. These results suggest the presence of two female morphotypes that may be differentially favored under contrasting environmental conditions. Unornamented females appear to have a reproductive advantage that should be favored under low predation environments. By contrast, ornamented females have traits that would confer a fitness advantage in high‐predation environments. This work suggests a potential mechanism maintaining male‐typical female ornamentation in nature.
Ovarian hormones modulate endothelin‐1 receptor responses in young women
Authors: Sebzda Kelly N. , Kuczmarski Andrew V. , Pohlig Ryan T. , Lennon Shannon L. , Edwards David G. , Wenner Megan M.
Published: July 2018

Objective

We recently demonstrated ETBR mediate vasodilation in young but not postmenopausal women; it is unclear if this is related to age or a decline in ovarian hormones. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that ETBR responses are modulated by ovarian hormones.

Methods

We measured cutaneous vasodilatory responses in 12 young women (22 ± 1 years, 23 ± 1 kg/m2) during the ML (days 20‐25) and EF (days 2‐5) phases of the menstrual cycle. Cutaneous microdialysis perfusions of lactated Ringer (control), ETBR antagonist (BQ‐788, 300 nmol/L), and ETAR antagonist (BQ‐123, 500 nmol/L) were performed, followed by local heating to 42°C.

Results

Serum estradiol (ML: 118 ± 16 vs EF: 44 ± 9 pg/mL, P < 0.05) and progesterone (ML: 8.3 ± 1.0 vs EF: 0.7 ± 0.2 ng/mL, P < 0.05) were higher during ML vs EF phase. ETBR blockade decreased vasodilation during ML (control: 91 ± 2 vs BQ‐788: 83 ± 2%CVCmax, P < 0.05) but not EF (control: 89 ± 2 vs BQ‐788: 89 ± 1%CVCmax). ETAR blockade also decreased vasodilation during ML (control: 91 ± 2 vs BQ‐123: 87 ± 2%CVCmax, P < 0.05) but not EF (control: 89 ± 2 vs BQ‐123: 92 ± 2%CVCmax).

Conclusions

These data suggest that fluctuations in ovarian hormones modulate ETBR and ETAR responses in young women.
In vitro interactions between 17‐AAG and azoles against Exophiala dermatitidis
Authors: Gao Lujuan , Sun Yi , He Chengyan , Li Ming , Zeng Tongxiang
Published: July 2018

Background

Exophiala dermatitidis causes a variety of illnesses in humans which are always refractory to available treatment modalities. Hsp90 governs crucial stress responses, cell wall repair mechanisms and antifungal resistance in pathogenic fungi. Thus, targeting Hsp90 with specific inhibitors holds considerable promise as combination strategy.

Objectives

To investigate the antifungal effect of 17‐AAG alone or combined with azoles against E. dermatitidis.

Methods

In vitro interactions of 17‐AAG, a Hsp90 inhibitor, and azoles including itraconazole, voriconazole and posaconazole against E. dermatitidis were evaluated via broth microdilution chequerboard technique, adapted from the CLSI M38‐A2 method. A total of 18 clinical strains were studied. Candida parapsilosis (ATCC22019) was included to ensure quality control.

Results and Conclusions

17‐AAG alone exhibited minimal antifungal activity against all tested isolates. However, synergistic effects between 17‐AAG and posaconazole, itraconazole or voriconazole were observed against 15 (83.3%), 12 (66.7%) and 1 (5.6%) isolates of E. dermatitidis, respectively. The effective working ranges of 17‐AAG in synergistic combinations were mostly within 2‐8 μg/mL. No antagonism was observed. In conclusion, harnessing fungal Hsp90 with 17‐AAG might prove a potential antifungal regimen for E. dermatitidis infections. However, due to the host toxicity of 17‐AAG, more efforts are needed to develop fungal specific Hsp90 inhibitors.
Economic Conditions in Early Life and Circulatory Disease Mortality
Authors: Masters Ryan K.
Published: July 2018

I test the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease hypothesis using a cohort perspective on mortality. I combine data from the National Health Interview Survey Linked Mortality Files, 1986–2006, and U.S. economic data between 1902 and 1956 (403,746 respondents and 39,439 deaths), to estimate how exposures to adverse economic conditions in utero and during the first three years of life affect circulatory disease mortality risk in adulthood. I also examine cohort‐based variation in these associations. Findings suggest that in utero exposures to poor economic conditions increased risk of death from circulatory diseases. Results are consistent with theory and evidence suggesting that developmental processes early in life are strongly associated with circulatory disease susceptibility in older adulthood. However, findings indicate that the mortality effects of these early‐life exposures have likely weakened across birth cohorts.