bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Statistical Model for Helices with Applications
Authors: Mardia Kanti V. , Sriram Karthik , Deane Charlotte M.
Published: March 2018

Motivated by a cutting edge problem related to the shape of -helices in proteins, we formulate a parametric statistical model, which incorporates the cylindrical nature of the helix. Our focus is to detect a “kink,” which is a drastic change in the axial direction of the helix. We propose a statistical model for the straight -helix and derive the maximum likelihood estimation procedure. The cylinder is an accepted geometric model for -helices, but our statistical formulation, for the first time, quantifies the uncertainty in atom positions around the cylinder. We propose a change point technique “Kink-Detector” to detect a kink location along the helix. Unlike classical change point problems, the change in direction of a helix depends on a simultaneous shift of multiple data points rather than a single data point, and is less straightforward. Our biological building block is crowdsourced data on straight and kinked helices; which has set a gold standard. We use this data to identify salient features to construct Kink-detector, test its performance and gain some insights. We find the performance of Kink-detector comparable to its computational competitor called “Kink-Finder.” We highlight that identification of kinks by visual assessment can have limitations and Kink-detector may help in such cases. Further, an analysis of crowdsourced curved -helices finds that Kink-detector is also effective in detecting moderate changes in axial directions.
A note on Type S/M errors in hypothesis testing
Authors: Lu Jiannan , Qiu Yixuan , Deng Alex
Published: March 2018

Motivated by the recent replication and reproducibility crisis, Gelman and Carlin (2014, Perspect. Psychol. Sci., 9, 641) advocated focusing on controlling for Type S/M errors, instead of the classic Type I/II errors, when conducting hypothesis testing. In this paper, we aim to fill several theoretical gaps in the methodology proposed by Gelman and Carlin (2014, Perspect. Psychol. Sci., 9, 641). In particular, we derive the closed‐form expression for the expected Type M error, and study the mathematical properties of the probability of Type S error as well as the expected Type M error, such as monotonicity. We demonstrate the advantages of our results through numerical and empirical examples.
How the source of the entrant's advantage limits entry‐deterring tying
Authors: Corts Kenneth S.
Published: March 2018

I revisit a simple model of entry‐deterring tying—example 1 from Whinston's (1990) seminal paper—but allow the potential entrant to have either a cost advantage or a willingness‐to‐pay (WTP) advantage relative to the incumbent. I show that, compared to the usual case in which the potential entrant is cost‐advantaged, tying is less effective against an entrant with a WTP advantage because an entrant with a large WTP advantage may be able to induce the buyer to buy both the tied bundle and the entrant's product. I also show that tying but failing to deter entry can be less costly when facing an entrant with a WTP advantage than when facing an entrant with a cost advantage. For a firm facing uncertainty about, for example, the entrant's entry costs, this makes tying a more attractive entry deterrence strategy against a WTP‐advantaged entrant. These results shed light on the important policy question of which markets are most likely to be susceptible to entry‐deterring tying.
Downregulation of miR‐491‐5p promotes gastric cancer metastasis by regulating SNAIL and FGFR4
Authors: Yu Ting , Wang Li‐na , Li Wei , Zuo Qian‐fei , Li Meng‐meng , Zou Quan‐ming , Xiao Bin
Published: March 2018

Gastric cancer (GC) is among the most fatal cancers in China. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are versatile regulators during GC development and progression. miR‐491‐5p has been demonstrated to act as a tumor suppressor in several types of cancer. However, the role of miR‐491‐5p in GC metastasis remains unknown. Here, we found that miR‐491‐5p was significantly decreased in GC tissues compared with adjacent non‐cancerous tissues, and low miR‐491‐5p level was associated with large tumor size. Overexpression of miR‐491‐5p significantly suppressed GC cell epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and tumor metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, SNAIL was identified as a direct target of miR‐491‐5p. The silencing of SNAIL phenocopied the tumor suppressive function of miR‐491‐5p, whereas re‐expression of SNAIL in GC cells rescued the EMT markers and cell migratory ability that were inhibited by miR‐491‐5p. In addition, miR‐491‐5p inhibited FGFR4 indirectly. Inhibition of FGFR4 also decreased the SNAIL level and impaired EMT and cell migration. Taken together, these findings indicate that downregulation of miR‐491‐5p promoted GC metastasis by inducing EMT via regulation of SNAIL and FGFR4.
Marginal bone loss at implants with different surface characteristics ‐ A 20‐year follow‐up of a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Donati Mauro , Ekestubbe Annika , Lindhe Jan , Wennström Jan L.
Published: March 2018

Objective

This report is a 20‐year follow‐up of a randomized controlled clinical trial evaluating the potential long‐term effect of a modified implant surface on the preservation of the peri‐implant marginal bone level.

Material & Methods

In each of 51 patients and for each fixed partial denture (FPD), by randomization at least one implant installed had a non‐modified turned surface and one a modified and roughened surface (TiOblast®). Clinical and radiological examinations were performed at various follow‐up intervals. Primary outcome variables were peri‐implant marginal bone level change from time of loading and proportion of implants with no bone loss at 20 years. Multilevel analysis followed by nonparametric and Pearson's Chi‐Square tests were applied for statistical analysis.

Results

At the 20‐year follow‐up, 25 patients carrying 64 implants were available for evaluation. Turned and TiOblast implants presented with a mean bone level change from the time of FDP delivery amounting to −0.41 mm (95% CI −0.84/0.02) and −0.83 mm (95% CI −1.38/−0.28) respectively (inter‐group comparison p > .05). 47% of the Turned and 34% TiOblast implants (p > .05) showed no bone loss. All but one of these implants were free of bacterial plaque and inflammation as well as presented with probing pocket depths ≤5 mm at both the 5‐ and 20‐year follow‐up examinations.

Conclusion

It is suggested that a moderate increase of implant surface roughness has no beneficial effect on long‐term preservation of the peri‐implant marginal bone level.
Use of genetic, climatic, and microbiological data to inform reintroduction of a regionally extinct butterfly
Authors: Dincă Vlad , Bálint Zsolt , Vodă Raluca , Dapporto Leonardo , Hebert Paul D. N. , Vila Roger
Published: March 2018

Species reintroductions are increasingly used as means of mitigating biodiversity loss. Besides habitat quality at the site targeted for reintroduction, the choice of source population can be critical for success. The butterfly Melanargia russiae (Esper´s marbled white) was extirpated from Hungary over 100 years ago, and a reintroduction program has recently been approved. We used museum specimens of this butterfly, mitochondrial DNA data (mtDNA), endosymbiont screening, and climatic‐similarity analyses to determine which extant populations should be used for its reintroduction. The species displayed 2 main mtDNA lineages across its range: 1 restricted to Iberia and southern France (Iberian lineage) and another found throughout the rest of its range (Eurasian lineage). These 2 lineages possessed highly divergent wsp alleles of the bacterial endosymbiont Wolbachia. The century‐old Hungarian specimens represented an endemic haplotype belonging to the Eurasian lineage, differing by one mutation from the Balkan and eastern European populations. The Hungarian populations of M. russiae occurred in areas with a colder and drier climate relative to most sites with extant known populations. Our results suggest the populations used for reintroduction to Hungary should belong to the Eurasian lineage, preferably from eastern Ukraine (genetically close and living in areas with the highest climatic similarity). Materials stored in museum collections can provide unique opportunities to document historical genetic diversity and help direct conservation.
The influence of board chairs on director engagement: A case‐based exploration of boardroom decision‐making
Authors: Bezemer Pieter‐Jan , Nicholson Gavin , Pugliese Amedeo
Published: March 2018

Manuscript type

Empirical

Research question/issue

This study seeks to better understand how board chairs, as leaders and equals, shape the context for other directors to engage in their governance roles.

Research findings/insights

Using a combination of video‐taped board meetings and semi‐structured interviews with directors at three corporations, we found a generalized and negative association between chair involvement and directors' engagement during board meetings.

Theoretical/academic implications

Our empirical results suggest that the chair's role can be viewed as a paradox, requiring both (i) strong leadership to counter managerial power, and (ii) a more subtle orientation as peer to fellow directors that enables other board members to contribute to boardroom decision‐making. Moreover, our study revealed the transitory nature of both chair contributions and directors' engagement during meetings, highlighting the potential and need for further unpacking of the temporal dimensions of boardroom decision‐making processes.

Practitioner/policy implications

Our analysis suggests a revision of the implicit prescription in the literature for board chairs to be active leaders who lead from the front. Given that chair involvement appears to reduce director engagement during meetings, our research hints at the need for a more supportive role of the chair during boardroom decision‐making that is in line with non‐traditional leadership models https://youtu.be/urcJHJHRXwc.
Detection of Borrelia in Ixodes scapularis ticks by silver stain, immunohistochemical and direct immunofluorescent methods
Authors: Galan Anjela , Kupernik Paul , Cowper Shawn E.
Published: March 2018

Background

Lyme disease (LD) is one of the most common tick‐borne diseases caused by several Borrelia species of spirochetes. Ixodes scapularis is responsible for the transmission of LD in the northeastern United States. The rate of infection varies with the duration of tick attachment to the host; however, this information may be unknown. In skin biopsies, it is often difficult to identify spirochetes. Testing of ticks is not routinely performed. Treatment is established by clinical presentation.

Objective

To test paraffin‐embedded I. scapularis ticks for Borrelia by different methods.

Materials/Methods

We examined 20 paraffin‐embedded ticks by silver stain, immunohistochemical (IHC) and direct immunofluorescent (DIF) methods and compared the percentage of positivity with DIF results from the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station.

Results

The results were similar by DIF, which proved to be the most sensitive method, followed by the silver stain and IHC.

Conclusion

We found that the identification of spirochetes in paraffin‐embedded ticks was less difficult than in tissue with a comparable turnaround time to that of a routine biopsy. Timely identification of Borrelia in ticks may influence the clinical management of the patients.
Digit identity influences numerical estimation in children and adults
Authors: Lai Maxine , Zax Alexandra , Barth Hilary
Published: March 2018

Learning the meanings of Arabic numerals involves mapping the number symbols to mental representations of their corresponding, approximate numerical quantities. It is often assumed that performance on numerical tasks, such as number line estimation (NLE), is primarily driven by translating from a presented numeral to a mental representation of its overall magnitude. Part of this assumption is that the overall numerical magnitude of the presented numeral, not the specific digits that comprise it, is what matters for task performance. Here we ask whether the magnitudes of the presented target numerals drive symbolic number line performance, or whether specific digits influence estimates. If the former is true, estimates of numerals with very similar magnitudes but different hundreds digits (such as 399 and 402) should be placed in similar locations. However, if the latter is true, these placements will differ significantly. In two studies (N = 262), children aged 7–11 and adults completed 0–1000 NLE tasks with target values drawn from a set of paired numerals that fell on either side of “Hundreds” boundaries (e.g., 698 and 701) and “Fifties” boundaries (e.g., 749 and 752). Study 1 used an atypical speeded NLE task, while Study 2 used a standard non‐speeded NLE task. Under both speeded and non‐speeded conditions, specific hundreds digits in the target numerals exerted a strong influence on estimates, with large effect sizes at all ages, showing that the magnitudes of target numerals are not the primary influence shaping children's or adults’ placements. We discuss patterns of developmental change and individual difference revealed by planned and exploratory analyses.
Economic evaluations of interventions for people with cerebral palsy: implications for future research
Authors: Marceniuk Gemma
Published: March 2018

This commentary is on the systematic review by Shih et al. on pages 543–558 of this issue.
Sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors and the risk of ketoacidosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A nationwide population‐based cohort study
Authors: Kim Young‐Gun , Jeon Ja Young , Han Seung Jin , Kim Dae Jung , Lee Kwan‐Woo , Kim Hae Jin
Published: March 2018

Aims

To estimate the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) associated with sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitor treatment compared with the risk associated with dipeptidyl‐peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitor treatment.

Methods

A nationwide population‐based cohort study using claims data from the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service from January 1, 2013 to June 30, 2017 was performed. A total of 56 325 patients who were started on SGLT2 inhibitors were included in this study and were matched with same number of patients who were started on DPP‐4 inhibitors using propensity score matching. Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were used to estimate the risk of hospitalization for DKA.

Results

The risk of hospitalization for DKA was not increased in SGLT2 inhibitor users vs DPP‐4 inhibitor users (hazard ratio [HR] 0.956, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.581‐1.572; P = .996). The incidence rate of hospitalization for DKA during the first 30 days after initiation of the SGLT2 inhibitor was 2.501 cases per 1000 person‐years, which was higher than the rate during 3 years (0.614 cases per 1000 person‐years). SGLT2 inhibitor use was associated with a higher HR in patients with diabetic microvascular complications (HR 2.044, 95% CI 0.900‐4.640; P = .088) and in patients taking diuretics (HR 3.648, 95% CI 0.720‐18.480; P = .118), although these associations were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

We found that SGLT2 inhibitor treatment did not increase the risk of DKA compared with DPP‐4 inhibitor treatment. Our findings suggest that patients prescribed diuretics or those with microvascular complications may have a greater tendency to be hospitalized for DKA.
Diagnostic accuracy of dual‐source computed tomography angiography for the detection of coronary in‐stent restenosis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Wen‐Jun , Li Gui‐Zhen , Liu Hai‐Feng , Lei Jun‐Qiang
Published: March 2018

We sought to perform a meta‐analysis to comprehensively evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of dual‐source computed tomography angiography (DSCTA) in detecting coronary in‐stent restenosis (CISR) when compared to invasive coronary angiography. The stent‐based research studies in which DSCTA was used as diagnostic tool for CISR, as recent as of October 2017, from several reputed scientific libraries (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, The Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) were evaluated. Study inclusion, data extraction, and risk bias assessment were conducted by two researchers independently. Pooled sensitivity (SEN), specificity (SPE), positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and area under summary receiver operator characteristics (SROC) curve (AUC) were calculated to assess the diagnostic value. In addition, heterogeneity and subgroup analysis were also carried out. A total of 13 studies with a total of 894 patients and 1384 assessable stents were included. The pooled results of DSCTA diagnosing CISR were as follows: SEN 0.92 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.87–0.96), SPE 0.91 (95% CI 0.87–0.94), PLR 9.83 (95% CI 6.93–13.94), NLR 0.09 (95% CI 0.05–0.15), DOR 114.73 (95% CI 64.12–205.28), and AUC 0.97 (95% CI 0.95–0.98), respectively. The subgroup analysis result suggested that DSTCA performed significantly better in CISR detection when the stent diameter was ≥3 mm compared with the stent diameter <3 mm: (0.98 [0.97–0.99] vs 0.82 [0.79–0.86]) with P < .05. This study revealed that DSCTA has excellent diagnostic performance for detecting CISR and may serve as an alternative for further patient evaluation with CISR, especially for stent diameter ≥3 mm.
Optimal reconstruction of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction before surgical myectomy in a case with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy
Authors: Toh Hiroyuki , Mori Shumpei , Shimoyama Shinsuke , Izawa Yu , Yokota Shun , Shinkura Yuto , Takeshige Ryo , Nagasawa Akira , Soga Fumitaka , Tanaka Hidekazu , Shinke Toshiro , Yokawa Koki , Matsueda Takashi , Okita Yutaka , Hirata Ken‐ichi
Published: March 2018

We present optimally reconstructed three‐dimensional computed tomography images of left ventricular outflow obstruction, comprehensive left ventriculography, and comparable intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography, as well as serial operative pictures, to facilitate the understanding of live‐heart anatomy of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. As shown in this case, detailed morphological analysis around the left ventricular outflow tract using preoperative computed tomography would be feasible and useful. The present case highlights the importance of obtaining complete three‐dimensional information present in the acquired computed tomography dataset because computed tomography is not entirely noninvasive or free of radiation exposure and contrast material.
Survival estimates strongly depend on capture–recapture designs in a disturbed environment inducing dispersal
Authors: Ponchon Aurore , Choquet Rémi , Tornos Jérémy , McCoy Karen D. , Tveraa Torkild , Boulinier Thierry
Published: March 2018

Capture–recapture (CR) approaches are extensively used to estimate demographic parameters. Their robustness relies on the selection of suitable statistical models, but also on the sampling design and effort deployed in the field. In colonial or territorial species showing breeding site fidelity, recurrent local perturbations, such as predation‐induced breeding failure, may lead individuals to disperse locally or regionally. This might induce heterogeneity in individual CR histories and biases in demographic parameter estimates. Here, we assessed the effect of buffer areas and multi‐site designs on annual survival estimate accuracy and precision. First, using simulated data with and without a multi‐site design, we compared survival estimates for different scenarios involving contrasted local and regional dispersal. Then, using data from a local multi‐site long‐term monitoring survey carried out in a colony of black‐legged kittiwakes, we tested the homogeneity of individual CR histories and compared survival estimates from three datasets including one or several breeding cliffs with or without buffer areas. Results from simulations highlighted that a single‐site design consistently led to underestimated or less precise survival values compared to a multi‐site design. Similarly, a multi‐site design allowed detecting significant temporal trends while a single‐site one did not. In the field‐based study, adding buffer areas reduced individual heterogeneity, but all three datasets suffered from strong trap‐dependence possibly due to individual breeding success affecting nest‐site fidelity. Implementing a multi‐site design significantly improved the accuracy and precision of annual survival estimates, regardless of CR models applied. Adapting the spatial scale of sampling design to the local environment and species behaviour is essential to provide robust parameters of key relevance for population monitoring and management. We show that implementing buffer areas and/or multi‐site designs may be especially beneficial for long‐lived species facing regular local perturbation events leading to local dispersal.
Role of prephase treatment prior to definitive chemotherapy in patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Lakshmaiah K C , Asati Vikas , Babu K Govind , D Lokanath , Jacob Linu Abraham , M C Suresh Babu , K N Lokesh , L K Rajeev , A H Rudresh , Saldanha Smitha , Koppaka Deepak , Patidar Rajesh , C S Premalata
Published: March 2018

Background

During the treatment of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients, treatment‐related toxicities are higher in the initial phase of treatment (First cycle effect). Toxicities can be tumor lysis syndrome, deterioration in performance status, febrile neutropenia, and rarely mortality. Prephase treatment before definitive chemotherapy is used in European countries to alleviate these toxicities.

Methods

This was a non‐randomized study carried out with the aim to evaluate the role of prephase treatment given prior to definitive chemotherapy in newly diagnosed DLBCL patients. Patients were divided into 2 cohorts “prephase cohort” and “non‐prephase cohort.” Prephase cohort received prephase treatment consisting of vincristine (1 mg) on −6th day and prednisolone 100 mg daily for 7 days (−6th day to day 0). Prephase treatment was followed by CHOP/R‐CHOP chemotherapy on day 1. Non‐prephase cohort received chemotherapy without prephase. Both groups were followed up for 30 days post‐first cycle chemotherapy.

Results

A total of 100 patients with DLBCL (50 in each cohort) were enrolled. There was a significant improvement in performance status of the patients who received prephase. A majority of 92% patients attained ECOG performance status of either 0 or 1 before starting chemotherapy in the prephase cohort. Febrile neutropenia was lower (16%) in the prephase cohort as compared with the non‐prephase cohort (34%; P = .037).

Conclusion

Prephase treatment prior to definitive chemotherapy (CHOP ± Rituximab) improves the performance status and decreases first cycle effect in DLBCL patients.
Structural characterization of POM6 Fab and mouse prion protein complex identifies key regions for prions conformational conversion
Authors: Baral Pravas Kumar , Swayampakula Mridula , Aguzzi Adriano , James Michael N. G.
Published: March 2018

Conversion of the cellular prion protein PrPC into its pathogenic isoform PrPSc is the hallmark of prion diseases, fatal neurodegenerative diseases affecting many mammalian species including humans. Anti‐prion monoclonal antibodies can arrest the progression of prion diseases by stabilizing the cellular form of the prion protein. Here, we present the crystal structure of the POM6 Fab fragment, in complex with the mouse prion protein (moPrP). The prion epitope of POM6 is in close proximity to the epitope recognized by the purportedly toxic antibody fragment, POM1 Fab also complexed with moPrP. The POM6 Fab recognizes a larger binding interface indicating a likely stronger binding compared to POM1. POM6 and POM1 exhibit distinct biological responses. Structural comparisons of the bound mouse prion proteins from the POM6 Fab:moPrP and POM1 Fab:moPrP complexes reveal several key regions of the prion protein that might be involved in initiating mis‐folding events.

Database

The structural data of moPrP:POM6 Fab complex are available in the PDB under the accession number www.rcsb.org/pdb/search/structidSearch.do?structureId=6AQ7.
Short Interest and Lottery Stocks
Authors: Bergsma Kelley , Tayal Jitendra
Published: March 2018

We find short interest‐related mispricing is strongest in lottery stocks. As stocks become more lottery‐like, arbitrage risk increases, resulting in higher overpricing (underpricing) in high (low) relative short interest (RSI) stocks. Monthly portfolio alphas are –1.61% for high RSI lottery stocks, whereas high RSI stocks with the least lottery‐like attributes show statistically insignificant alphas. Among lightly shorted stocks, lottery securities exhibit monthly alphas of 1.80%. Thus, although lottery stocks as a group typically underperform, investors can earn positive abnormal returns in lightly shorted lottery stocks. Our results suggest that lottery stocks’ greater noise trader risk and higher transactions costs impedes arbitrage in short interest‐related mispricing.
Vascular plant‐mediated controls on atmospheric carbon assimilation and peat carbon decomposition under climate change
Authors: Gavazov Konstantin , Albrecht Remy , Buttler Alexandre , Dorrepaal Ellen , Garnett Mark H. , Gogo Sebastien , Hagedorn Frank , Mills Robert T. E. , Robroek Bjorn J. M. , Bragazza Luca
Published: March 2018

Climate change can alter peatland plant community composition by promoting the growth of vascular plants. How such vegetation change affects peatland carbon dynamics remains, however, unclear. In order to assess the effect of vegetation change on carbon uptake and release, we performed a vascular plant‐removal experiment in two Sphagnum‐dominated peatlands that represent contrasting stages of natural vegetation succession along a climatic gradient. Periodic measurements of net ecosystem CO2 exchange revealed that vascular plants play a crucial role in assuring the potential for net carbon uptake, particularly with a warmer climate. The presence of vascular plants, however, also increased ecosystem respiration, and by using the seasonal variation of respired CO2 radiocarbon (bomb‐14C) signature we demonstrate an enhanced heterotrophic decomposition of peat carbon due to rhizosphere priming. The observed rhizosphere priming of peat carbon decomposition was matched by more advanced humification of dissolved organic matter, which remained apparent beyond the plant growing season. Our results underline the relevance of rhizosphere priming in peatlands, especially when assessing the future carbon sink function of peatlands undergoing a shift in vegetation community composition in association with climate change.
Comparison of oral health status and daily nutrient intake between elders who live alone and elders who live with family: Based on the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES VI) (2013‐2015)
Authors: Kim Eun‐Jeong , Jin Bo‐Hyoung
Published: March 2018

Objective

To compare the nutritional factors and oral status of elders living alone and elders living with their families in Korea.

Background

Numerous studies have found that the presence of fewer remaining teeth is associated with decreased nutrient intake; however, there is no study comparing the nutritional status and oral status of elders living alone with that of elders living with family based on a nationally representative sample.

Methods

A sample of 2904 individuals who participated in the sixth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey was reviewed (65‐84 years of age). Living status was defined according to the participants’ self‐reported questionnaire, and a nutrient intake questionnaire was designed as an open questionnaire and used during the face‐to‐face interviews. The number of existing teeth was used to determine oral status. A complex‐sample general linear analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to evaluate the association between the number of teeth and nutrient intake among elders living with family and elders living alone after adjusting for confounders.

Results

Elders living alone were significantly older and tended to have the following characteristics: women, lower household income, lower educational level, poor perceived health status, non‐smokers, non‐drinkers and lack of physical activity. Elders living alone had a poorer perceived oral health status, had not received an oral examination in the past year, had chewing problems and had fewer existing teeth (P < .05). Elders living with family showed better oral health and nutrient intake status. Participants who had many existing teeth had higher nutrient intake than the participants who had fewer existing teeth.

Conclusions

For healthy lives at old age, family support or additional social support for elders living alone should be considered.
Applications of ice‐templated ceramics
Authors: White Mary Anne , Conrad Jacy , Chen Ran , Romao Carl , Pereira Anderson , Hill Ian
Published: March 2018

The freeze‐cast ceramics process involves the use of an aqueous slurry in which ice acts as a fugitive template, providing control of the morphology of the resultant green body, which is then sintered. Here, we report a variety of applications of ice‐templated ceramics, showcasing the versatility of the process. Applications include: as a suitable scaffold for silver loading and release at concentrations that could show antibacterial properties; as a component of a robust composite material with negative thermal expansion but reduced material cost; as thin porous structures for dye‐sensitized solar cells.
Residual thermal stress of SiC/Ti3SiC2/SiC joints calculation and relaxed by postannealing
Authors: Zhou Xiaobing , Li Youbing , Li Yifan , Liu Zhen , Yang Hui , Ding Shurong , Han Young‐Hwan , Lee Jaehyung , Du Shiyu , Huang Qing
Published: March 2018

Residual thermal stresses in SiC/Ti3SiC2/SiC joining couples were calculated by Raman spectra and simulated by finite element analysis, and then relaxed successfully by postannealing. The results showed that the thermal residual stress between Ti3SiC2 and SiC was about on the order of 1 GPa when cooling from 1300°C to 25°C. The thermal residual stresses can be relaxed by the recovery of structure disorders during postannealing. When the SiC/Ti3SiC2/SiC joints postannealed at 900°C, the bending strength reached 156.9 ± 13.5 MPa, which was almost twice of the as‐obtained SiC/Ti3SiC2/SiC joints. Furthermore, the failure occurred at the SiC matrix suggested that both the flexural strength of joining layer and interface were higher than the SiC matrix.
The effect and mechanism of ultrasonic treatment on the postharvest texture of shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes)
Authors: Ni Zhendan , Xu Shixiang , Ying Tiejin
Published: March 2018

Fresh shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) are prone to texture softening and quality decline during storage. We investigated the effects of prestorage ultrasonic treatment on the textural changes of the mushrooms during storage. We monitored physiological parameters, such as respiration intensity, weight loss, cell wall composition and resistance‐related enzymes activity. The hardness of the ultrasonic‐treated (40 kHz, 80 W L−1, 20 min) mushrooms after 12 days of storage (0.461 N) was significantly higher than the untreated control group (0.286 N). The weight loss and respiration intensity of the ultrasonic‐treated group were significantly lower, whereas the cell wall contents, including glucan and chitin, were significantly higher. The ultrasonic‐treated mushrooms also had higher phenylalanine ammonia lyase, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities. Thus, ultrasound preserves the texture of mushrooms by reducing metabolic rate, maintaining cell wall compositions, activating the activity of SOD and maintaining the activity of PAL and CAT.
From machismo to co‐parenting: Changing Italy's mindset
Authors: MARTONE Michel
Published: March 2018

This article analyses the complex legislative and judicial processes that would be required to establish the right to co‐parenting in the Italian labour regulation system. Identifying a trend in the Italian legal system that has so far limited family protection to the support of women and maternity, the author then elaborates on the legislative evolution that has led to the acknowledgment of fathers as key partners in their children's upbringing. Lastly, an analysis of case law shows how this has been used to give a modern interpretation of legislated principles, providing a crucial contribution to overcoming the ongoing resistance to these processes from a male‐oriented culture.
Metabolic control of cell fate bifurcations in a hematopoietic progenitor population
Authors: Kratchmarov Radomir , Viragova Sara , Kim Min Jung , Rothman Nyanza J , Liu Kang , Reizis Boris , Reiner Steven L
Published: March 2018

Growth signals drive hematopoietic progenitor cells to proliferate and branch into divergent cell fates, but how unequal outcomes arise from a common progenitor is not fully understood. We used steady‐state analysis of in vivo hematopoiesis and Fms‐related tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (Flt3L)‐induced in vitro differentiation of dendritic cells (DCs) to determine how growth signals regulate lineage bias. We found that Flt3L signaling induced anabolic activation and proliferation of DC progenitors, which was associated with DC differentiation. Perturbation of processes associated with quiescence and catabolism, including AMP‐activated protein kinase signaling, fatty acid oxidation, or mitochondrial clearance increased development of cDC2 cells at the expense of cDC1 cells. Conversely, scavenging anabolism‐associated reactive oxygen species skewed differentiation toward cDC1 cells. Sibling daughter cells of dividing DC progenitors exhibited unequal expression of the transcription factor interferon regulatory factor 8, which correlated with clonal divergence in FoxO3a signaling and population‐level bifurcation of cell fate. We propose that unequal transmission of growth signals during cell division might support fate branches during proliferative expansion of progenitors.
Responses of carbon metabolism and antioxidant system of summer maize to waterlogging at different stages
Authors: Ren B. , Zhang J. , Dong S. , Liu P. , Zhao B.
Published: March 2018

A field experiment was performed to explore responses of carbon metabolism, antioxidant system and endogenous hormone content of summer maize hybrids DengHai605 (DH605) and ZhengDan958 (ZD958) to waterlogging at the third leaf stage (V3), the sixth leaf stage (V6) and the 10th day after the tasselling stage (10VT). Results showed that waterlogging significantly decreased the contents of zeatin riboside (ZR), indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) and gibberellic acid (GA), compared to those of CK. However, leaf abscisic acid (ABA) content was significantly increased by waterlogging at different stages, with the most significant increase was found in the treatment of waterlogging at V3 (V3‐W), with an increase of 30% and 29% for DH605 and ZD958, respectively. Waterlogging significantly decreased antioxidative enzyme activities, accelerating leaf senescence, resulted in the disorder of leaf gas exchange parameters and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters. In addition, waterlogging decreased key enzyme activities of carbon metabolism (ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase), with the most significant reduction in V3‐W, with a decrease of 46% and 49% for DH605, and 53% and 55% for ZD958, respectively. Visibly, waterlogging disturbed carbon metabolism, affected plant endogenous hormone content, accelerated leaf senescence and eventually resulted in a significant reduction in photosynthetic characteristic and grain yield. V3 was most susceptible to waterlogging, followed by V6 and 10VT.
Use of nanocomposites as permeability reducing admixtures
Authors: Valentini Luca , Ferrari Giorgio , Russo Vincenzo , Štefančič Mateja , Zalar Serjun Vesna , Artioli Gilberto
Published: March 2018

Permeability is one of the fundamental properties of concrete structures as it is strictly related to durability. Mitigation of the degradation processes induced by aggressive solutions can be achieved by controlling water penetration through the pore network. In this study, we test the potential use of nanocomposites as waterproofing agents in concrete. Macroscopic measurements show that the addition of a small amount of nanoparticles effectively reduces the extent of the water permeation front. A combination of experiments, based on X‐ray tomography, mercury intrusion porosimetry, and BET nitrogen adsorption, and of numerical simulations, are used to interpret the macroscopic observations. These investigations show that C–S–H precipitation away from cement surfaces, induced by the presence of nanoparticles, leads to a refinement of the pore network. Such a microstructural change in the cement matrix results in a net reduction in the overall concrete permeability.
Microfluidic fabrication of ceramic microspheres with controlled morphologies
Authors: Liang Shuaishuai , Li Jiang , Li Xiaomin , Man Jia , Nunes Janine K. , Chen Haosheng
Published: March 2018

In this study, the diffusion‐induced external gelation is combined with a microfluidic technique to prepare monodisperse ZrO2 ceramic microspheres. The gelation of sol droplets is traced by fluorescence visualization of the local pH, and it illustrates the effect of the external concentration of triggering agent (tetramethylethylenediamine, TMEDA) on the formation of the gel network, which results in 3 kinds of deformation of the gel particles. The deformation mechanism mainly lies in the imbalanced Laplace pressure exerted on the gel network during the competition between the gelation and the drying processes. By regulating the concentration of TMEDA, the monodisperse ZrO2 ceramic microspheres with high sphericity can be readily fabricated.
Transparent polycrystalline Gd2Hf2O7 ceramics
Authors: Chen Ching‐Fong , Brennecka Geoff L. , Synowicki R. A. , Tegtmeier Eric L. , Brand Michael J. , Montalvo J. D. , Ivy Jacob , Cherepy Nerine J. , Seeley Zach , Payne Steven A.
Published: March 2018

We have successfully developed transparent polycrystalline Gd2Hf2O7 ceramics with high in‐line transparency. A sol–gel process was used to synthesize the Gd2Hf2O7 powder. Simultaneous thermal gravimetric analysis and differential thermal analysis (TGA/DTA) was used to identify the decomposition sequence as a function of temperature for the as‐synthesized sol–gel powders. The calcined powder is single phase and was formed with an estimated average particle size of 120 nm. Crystallization was confirmed by x‐ray diffraction (XRD) and a single phase was achieved by calcining at 1000°C. The calcined powders were hot‐pressed at 1500°C to achieve >95% theoretical density with closed pore structure followed by a hot isostatic pressing at 1500°C at 207 MPa to achieve a fully dense structure. Microstructural characterization shows a uniform grain size distribution with an average grain size of about 11 μm. In‐line transmission measurements revealed high transparency in the red and infrared. Dielectric properties remain stable with relative permittivity values around 180 and loss tangents less than 0.005 up to 350°C. Thermal conductivity was measured to be ~1.8 W/m°K at room temperature, decreasing to ~1.5 W/m°K by 500°C.
Non‐erythropoietic erythropoietin‐derived peptide protects mice from systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Huang Bo , Jiang Juntao , Luo Bangwei , Zhu Wen , Liu Yuqi , Wang Zhishang , Zhang Zhiren
Published: March 2018

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease, which results in various organ pathologies. However, current treatment towards SLE is suboptimal. Erythropoietin (EPO) has been shown to promote SLE recovery, but clinical application can be limited by its haematopoiesis‐stimulating effects. EPO‐derived helix‐B peptide (ARA290) is non‐erythrogenic but has been reported to retain the anti‐inflammatory and tissue‐protective functions of EPO. Therefore, here we investigated the effects and potential mechanisms of ARA290 on SLE. The administration of ARA290 to pristane‐induced SLE and MRL/lpr mice significantly suppressed the level of serum antinuclear autoantibodies (ANAs) and anti‐dsDNA autoantibodies, reduced the deposition of IgG and C3, and ameliorated the nephritis symptoms. Moreover, the serum concentrations of inflammatory cytokine IL‐6, MCP‐1 and TNF‐α in SLE mice were reduced by ARA290. Further, ARA290 decreased the number of apoptotic cells in kidney. In vitro experiment revealed that ARA290 inhibited the inflammatory activation of macrophages and promoted the phagocytotic function of macrophages to apoptotic cells. Finally, ARA290 did not induce haematopoiesis during treatment. In conclusion, ARA290 ameliorated SLE, which at least could be partly due to its anti‐inflammatory and apoptotic cell clearance promoting effects, without stimulating haematopoiesis, suggesting that ARA290 could be a hopeful candidate for SLE treatment.
Human pancreatic α‐ to β‐cell area ratio increases after type 2 diabetes onset
Authors: Fujita Yukari , Kozawa Junji , Iwahashi Hiromi , Yoneda Sho , Uno Sae , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Nagano Hiroaki , Imagawa Akihisa , Shimomura Iichiro
Published: March 2018

Aims/Introduction

Pancreatic α‐cell area and the α‐ to β‐cell area ratio (α/β) might be associated with glucose tolerance. The aim was to clarify how these histological parameters change as glucose tolerance deteriorates.

Materials and Methods

We analyzed pancreatic tissues obtained from pancreatectomies of 43 patients. We evaluated the relationships between α‐cell area or the α/β and various clinical parameters. Additionally, we analyzed α‐cell proliferation and the expression patterns of various pancreatic transcription factors.

Results

The α/β in individuals with longstanding (previously diagnosed) type 2 diabetes (0.36 ± 0.12) was higher than that in those with normal glucose tolerance (0.18 ± 0.10; P < 0.01), impaired glucose tolerance (0.17 ± 0.12; P < 0.05) and newly diagnosed diabetes (0.17 ± 0.12; P < 0.05). In all participants, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) correlated with relative α‐cell area (P = 0.010). Diabetes duration (P = 0.004), HbA1c (P < 0.001) and plasma glucose levels (P = 0.008) were significantly correlated with the α/β in single regression analyses, and diabetes duration was the only independent and significant determinant in stepwise multiple regression analyses (P = 0.006). The α‐cell Ki67‐positive ratio in patients with HbA1c ≥6.5% was significantly higher than that in patients with HbA1c <6.5% (P = 0.022). We identified β‐cells that expressed aristaless‐related homeobox and α‐cells that did not express aristaless‐related homeobox at all glucose tolerance stages. Aristaless‐related homeobox and NK homeobox 6.1 expression patterns varied in insulin and glucagon double‐positive cells.

Conclusions

The pancreatic α/β increases after type 2 diabetes onset and correlates with diabetes duration. This change might occur through α‐cell proliferation and phenotypic changes in pancreatic endocrine cells.
Effect of everolimus on skin lesions in patients treated for subependymal giant cell astrocytoma and renal angiomyolipoma: final 4‐year results from the randomized EXIST‐1 and EXIST‐2 studies
Authors: Franz D.N. , Budde K. , Kingswood J.C. , Belousova E. , Sparagana S. , de Vries P.J. , Berkowitz N. , Ridolfi A. , Bissler J.J.
Published: March 2018

Background

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic disorder associated with tumour growth in various organs, including the brain, kidneys, heart and skin. Cutaneous lesions are prevalent manifestations of TSC, occurring in up to 90% of patients. Oral mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors, such as everolimus, is believed to be effective for treatment of TSC‐associated lesions because they act on the underlying disease pathophysiology.

Objective

We evaluated the long‐term effect of oral everolimus on TSC‐associated skin lesions as a secondary objective in the phase III studies EXIST‐1 (NCT00789828) and EXIST‐2 (NCT00790400) after approximately 4 years of treatment.

Materials and methods

Everolimus was dosed 4.5 mg/m2/day (titrated to trough 5–15 ng/mL) in patients with TSC‐associated subependymal giant cell astrocytoma in EXIST‐1, and 10 mg/day initially in adult patients with TSC‐ or sporadic lymphangioleiomyomatosis–associated renal angiomyolipoma in EXIST‐2. Following positive results from the core phase, remaining patients were offered open‐label everolimus in an extension. Skin lesion response rate was the proportion of patients achieving complete or partial clinical response.

Results

A total of 105 patients in EXIST‐1 and 107 in EXIST‐2 received everolimus and had ≥1 skin lesion at baseline. Skin lesion response rate (95% confidence interval) was 58.1% (48.1–67.7%) in EXIST‐1 and 68.2% (58.5–76.9%) in EXIST‐2; most were partial responses. At week 192 (EXIST‐1: n = 55; EXIST‐2: n = 56), 69% and 66% had a response. Most common drug‐related adverse event was stomatitis (41–45%).

Conclusion

Oral everolimus improved TSC‐related skin lesions, with responses sustained over 4 years of treatment in EXIST‐1 and EXIST‐2.
Commentary on ‘Changing prevalence of diabetes mellitus in bullous pemphigoid: it is the dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors’
Authors: Fania L. , Di Zenzo G. , Mazzanti C. , Abeni D.
Published: March 2018

Linked article: This article is commented on by A. Gravani et al., pp. e438–e439 in this issue. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.14957
Effect of spatial connectivity on host resistance in a highly fragmented natural pathosystem
Authors: Höckerstedt Layla Maria , Siren Jukka Pekka , Laine Anna‐Liisa
Published: March 2018

Both theory and experimental evolution studies predict migration to influence the outcome of antagonistic coevolution between hosts and their parasites, with higher migration rates leading to increased diversity and evolutionary potential. Migration rates are expected to vary in spatially structured natural pathosystems, yet how spatial structure generates variation in coevolutionary trajectories across populations occupying the same landscape has not been tested. Here, we studied the effect of spatial connectivity on host evolutionary potential in a natural pathosystem characterized by a stablePlantago lanceolatahost network and a highly dynamicPodosphaera plantaginisparasite metapopulation. We designed a large inoculation experiment to test resistance of five isolated and five well‐connected host populations against sympatric and allopatric pathogen strains, over 4 years. Contrary to our expectations, we did not find consistently higher resistance against sympatric pathogen strains in the well‐connected populations. Instead, host local adaptation varied considerably among populations and through time with greater fluctuations observed in the well‐connected populations. Jointly, our results suggest that in populations where pathogens have successfully established, they have the upper hand in the coevolutionary arms race, but hosts may be better able to respond to pathogen‐imposed selection in the well‐connected than in the isolated populations. Hence, the ongoing and extensive fragmentation of natural habitats may increase vulnerability to diseases.