bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role for the membrane estrogen receptor alpha in the sexual differentiation of the brain
Authors: Khbouz Badr , de Bournonville Catherine , Court Lucas , Taziaux Mélanie , Corona Rebeca , Arnal Jean‐François , Lenfant Françoise , Cornil Charlotte A.
Published: December 2019

Estrogens exert pleiotropic effects on multiple physiological and behavioral responses. Male and female sexual behavior in rodents constitutes some of the best‐characterized responses activated by estrogens in adulthood and largely depend on ERα. Evidence exists that nucleus‐ and membrane‐initiated estrogen signaling cooperate to orchestrate the activation of these behaviors both in short‐ and long‐term. However, questions remain regarding the mechanism(s) and receptor(s) involved in the early brain programming during development to organize the circuits underlying sexually differentiated responses. Taking advantage of a mouse model harboring a mutation of the ERα palmitoylation site, which prevents membrane ERα signaling (mERα; ERα‐C451A), this study investigated the role of mERα on the expression of male and female sexual behavior and neuronal populations that differ between sexes. The results revealed no genotype effect on the expression of female sexual behavior, while male sexual behavior was significantly reduced, but not abolished, in males homozygous for the mutation. Similarly, the number of kisspeptin‐ (Kp‐ir) and calbindin‐immunoreactive (Cb‐ir) neurons in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPv) and the sexually dimorphic nucleus of the preoptic area (SDN‐POA), respectively, were not different between genotypes in females. In contrast, homozygous males showed increased numbers of Kp‐ir and decreased numbers of Cb‐ir neurons compared to wild‐types, thus leading to an intermediate phenotype between females and wild‐type males. Importantly, females neonatally treated with estrogens exhibited the same neurochemical phenotype as their corresponding genotype among males. Together, these data provide evidence that mERα is involved in the perinatal programming of the male brain.
Host‐plant range expansion to Gymnocladus dioica by an introduced seed predatory beetle Megabruchidius dorsalis
Authors: GYÖRGY Zoltán , TUDA Midori
Published: December 2019

A seed predatory beetle, Megabruchidius dorsalis (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae) native to the Oriental region was first found to utilize a North American Gymnocladus dioica (Fabaceae: Caesalpinioideae) in its introduced area in Central Europe. A maximum of three adult exit holes were found on a single seed. Host‐plants of the bruchine beetle have been reviewed from its native and introduced regions, including a host record of Gleditsia fera from Taiwan. Our review indicated the beetle's strict oligophagy on caesalpinioid Gleditsia species. On the contrary, our finding suggests that the beetle's host‐range extends to the caesalpinioid Umtiza clade. On the plant side, this study provides a counterexample to the enemy release hypothesis that predicts fewer predators/parasites in an organism's range of introduction than in their native range; Gy. dioica is attacked by the seed predator in its introduced region, whereas in its native range it is free from seed predators.
Different patterns of allopreening in the same‐sex and opposite‐sex interactions of juvenile large‐billed crows (Corvus macrorhynchos)
Authors: Miyazawa Eri , Seguchi Akiko , Takahashi Nana , Motai Ayumi , Izawa Ei‐Ichi
Published: December 2019

Allogrooming, where an individual grooms another, has been extensively studied in various social animals to understand its role in the evolution of cooperation/prosociality. In existing studies in mammals, allogrooming has been suggested to exhibit not only a hygiene but also a social function. Allopreening, a topic of increasing interest in mammals but recently also in birds, has been studied mostly with mature animals. However, in some species immature individuals also show allopreening and its function remains poorly understood. Crows,Corvus spp., are an ideal model to study this phenomenon, because juveniles form year‐round aggregates during their long juvenile stage (e.g., throughout 3–4 years). Here, we investigated the function of allopreening in juvenile groups of wild‐caught large‐billed crows (C. macrorhynchos). Allopreening frequency and duration for three groups of wild‐caught juveniles were analysed to determine whether there was a symmetrical (i.e., reciprocal) or asymmetrical allopreening pattern, and if sex composition of the dyad and/or relative dominance of donor and recipient had an effect. We found that both the frequency and duration of male allopreening correlated with frequency of aggression. Allopreening between both males and females occurred unidirectionally from dominants to subordinates but not in the opposite direction. On the contrary, allopreening between a male and a female was found to be reciprocated, though the absolute frequency and duration were both greater in males than in females. These results suggest that the social function of allopreening in juvenile crows differs depending on the sex composition of the dyad, functioning as a dominance signal for same‐sex dyads, and serving a social bonding function for opposite‐sex dyads. These findings may reflect the potentially crucial roles of allopreening in within‐sex competition and opposite‐sex attraction during the 3 year‐long juvenile stage affecting future mate choice in lifelong monogamy.
Divergent northern and southern populations and demographic history of the pearl oyster in the western Pacific revealed with genomic SNPs
Authors: Takeuchi Takeshi , Masaoka Tetsuji , Aoki Hideo , Koyanagi Ryo , Fujie Manabu , Satoh Noriyuki
Published: December 2019

In the open ocean without terrain boundaries, marine invertebrates with pelagic larvae can migrate long distances using ocean currents, suggesting reduced genetic diversification. Contrary to this assumption, however, genetic differentiation is often observed in marine invertebrates. In the present study, we sought to explain how population structure is established in the western Pacific Ocean, where the strong Kuroshio Current maintains high levels of gene flow from south to north, presumably promoting genetic homogeneity. We determined the population structure of the pearl oyster, Pinctada fucata, in the Indo‐Pacific Ocean using genome‐wide genotyping data from multiple sampling localities. Cluster analysis showed that the western Pacific population is distinct from that of the Indian Ocean, and that it is divided into northern (Japanese mainland) and southern (Nansei Islands, China, and Cambodia) populations. Genetic differentiation of P. fucata can be explained by geographic barriers in the Indian Ocean and a local lagoon, and by environmental gradients of sea surface temperature (SST) and oxygen concentration in the western Pacific. A genome scan showed evidence of adaptive evolution in genomic loci, possibly associated with changes in environmental factors, including SST and oxygen concentration. Furthermore, Bayesian simulation demonstrated that the past population expansion and division are congruent with ocean warming after the last glacial period. It is highly likely that the environmental gradient forms a genetic barrier that diversifies P. fucata populations in the western Pacific. This hypothesis helps to explain genetic differentiation and possible speciation of marine invertebrates.
The diffusion‐adoption of accrual accounting in Sri Lankan local governments
Authors: Dissanayake Thusitha , Dellaportas Steven , Yapa P. W. Senarath
Published: December 2019

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the diffusion‐adoption of accrual accounting among Sri Lankan local governments. The paper draws on the Diffusion of Innovation theory to explain the factors that assist or mitigate the adoption of accrual accounting as a new accounting practice. Finance managers, charged with the responsibility of adopting accrual accounting, were influenced by two major factors: a centralised knowledge‐diffusion process educating these finance managers about its compatibility; and its observability in practice to understand the benefits of adoption. The paper contributes to the understanding of the diffusion of accounting innovation in developing countries and the role of key players such as professional associations within this process.
Decadal losses of canopy‐forming algae along the warm temperate coastline of Brazil
Authors: Gorman Daniel , Horta Paulo , Flores Augusto A. V. , Turra Alexander , Berchez Flávio Augusto de Souza , Batista Manuela B. , Lopes Filho Euro S. , Melo Mariana S. , Ignacio Barbara L. , Carneiro Ivan M. , Villaça Roberto C. , Széchy Maria Teresa M.
Published: December 2019

The loss of canopy‐forming seaweeds from urbanized coasts has intensified in response to warming seas and non‐climatic pressures such as population growth and declining water quality. Surprisingly, there has been little information on the extent of historical losses in the South‐western Atlantic, which limits our ability to place this large marine ecosystem in a global context. Here, we use meta‐analysis to examine long‐term (1969–2017) changes to the cover and biomass of Sargassum spp. and structurally simple algal turfs along more than 1,000 kilometres of Brazil's warm temperate coastline. Analysis revealed major declines in canopy cover that were independent of season (i.e., displaying similar trends for both summer and winter) but varied with coastal environmental setting, whereby sheltered bays experienced greater losses than coastal locations. On average, covers of Sargassum spp. declined by 2.6% per year, to show overall losses of 52% since records began (ranging from 20% to 89%). This contrasted with increases in the cover of filamentous turfs (24% over the last 27 years) which are known to proliferate along human‐impacted coasts. To test the relative influence of climatic versus non‐climatic factors as drivers of this apparent canopy‐to‐turf shift, we examined how well regional warming trends (decadal changes to sea surface temperature) and local proxies of coastal urbanization (population density, thermal pollution, turbidity and nutrient inputs) were able to predict the changes in seaweed communities. Our results revealed that the most pronounced canopy losses over the past 50 years were at sites exhibiting the greatest degree of coastal warming, the highest population growth and those located in semi‐enclosed sheltered bays. These findings contribute knowledge on the drivers of canopy loss in the South‐western Atlantic and join with global efforts to understand and mitigate declines of marine keystone species.
Serum levels and mutual correlations of amyloid β in patients with depression
Authors: Yasuda Seita , Baba Hajime , Maeshima Hitoshi , Shimano Takahisa , Inoue Megumi , Ichikawa Tomoya , Shukuzawa Hiroko , Suzuki Toshihito , Arai Heii
Published: December 2019

Aim

Epidemiological studies have shown that depression is a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although the biological mechanism underlying the link between depression and AD is unclear, altered amyloid β (Aβ) metabolism in patients with depression has been suggested as a potential mechanism. Results from previous studies of Aβ metabolism in patients with depression have been inconsistent, and Aβ polymerization, which is a crucial process in AD pathology, has not previously been assessed.

Methods

Serum levels of Aβ40, Aβ42 and Aβ oligomers were evaluated in 104 inpatients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and 132 healthy control individuals.

Results

Lower serum Aβ42 levels were observed in patients with MDD, but there was no difference in serum Aβ oligomer levels between the MDD group and the healthy control group, even in older adults. Interestingly, serum Aβ oligomer levels in patients with MDD were dependent on serum Aβ42 levels, regardless of age, and this relationship was not observed in the control group.

Conclusions

These results suggest that Aβ42 is more prone to aggregation and polymerization in patients with depression than in healthy individuals, suggesting a possible mechanism underlying the transition from depression to AD. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 125–129.
Effect of different contents of zirconia and yttrium oxide on microstructure and properties of high alumina ceramics
Authors: Huang Bensheng , Fu Sheng , Zhang Shunshun , Lin Anna , Guan Zhongyi
Published: December 2019

The effects of zirconia and yttrium oxide addition on microstructure, bulk density, microhardness, flexural strength, and wear resistance of high alumina ceramics (>97 wt% Al2O3, MSA ceramics) composed of MgO–SiO2–Al2O3 system have been investigated. The results show that the addition of zirconia makes the mechanical properties and wear properties of ceramics composed of MgO–SiO2–Al2O3–ZrO2 (MSAZ ceramics) system have been greatly improved compared with MSA ceramics. In addition, the ceramics composed of MgO–SiO2–Al2O3–ZrO2–Y2O3 (MSAZY ceramics) system have better mechanical properties and wear properties than MSAZ ceramics. With the contents of zirconia and yttrium oxide increase, the bulk density, microhardness, and flexural strength of MSAZ and MSAZY ceramics increased at first and then decreased. However, the wear rate shows the opposite. When 0.4 wt% ZrO2 and 0.6 wt% Y2O3 were added to the matrix, the wear rate of MSAZY ceramics reached a minimum of 0.042%, and the wear resistance was improved by about 73.8% compared with MSA ceramics with a wear rate of 0.16%. In addition, the optimum additions of zirconia and yttria are 0.4% and 0.6%, respectively.
Electrochemical performance of Bi2Te3/GO composite anode for LIB application
Authors: Masood Khalid B. , Jain Neha , Singh Jai
Published: December 2019

Present investigation deals with the study of electrochemical properties of Bi2Te3/GO composite for its use as anode material in Li‐ion batteries. The Bi2Te3/GO composite has been synthesized via polyol route. The surface morphology and structural properties of the as‐prepared samples have been studied by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy techniques. The phase of as‐synthesized composite was found out to be rhombohedral as has been characterized by X‐ray diffractometer. The presence of GO in the Bi2Te3 matrix has been confirmed by the presence of characteristic D and G bands in the Raman spectra. The as‐synthesized composite showed the first cycle discharge/charge capacity of 752/514 mAh g−1 at the current density of 0.1 Ag−1, superior rate capability (~50 mAh g−1 at 2 Ag−1), and excellent cycling stability over 500 cycles at 0.1 Ag−1. The presence of GO in the matrix helps to enhance the electronic conductivity due to the rapid Li‐ion diffusion and helps to shield the changes in volume during the cycling processes.
Structural, dielectric and magnetic domains properties of Mn‐doped BiFeO3 materials
Authors: Awasthi Ram Raseele , Asokan Kandasami , Das Balak
Published: December 2019

The pure and Mn‐doped BiFe1−xMnxO3 (x = 0.00, 0.02, 0.05, 0.10) nanomaterials have been prepared by coprecipitation method. The powder X‐ray diffraction pattern analysis shows a structural phase transformation from rhombohedral to orthorhombic, as Mn content in the doped BiFe1−xMnxO3 increases from x = 0.00 to 0.10. The Raman spectrum analysis of BiFe1−xMnxO3 also confirms structural phase transformation. The average crystallite size was calculated using the Scherrer formula and found to decrease from 100 to 60 nm. The surface structure of interconnecting cubic grain turns into spherical grains via petal‐shaped grains with increasing the Mn‐doping concentration. The value of dielectric constant at the frequency of 1 MHz increases rapidly from 27.2 to 76.8 whereas the tangent loss (tan δ) increases gradually from 0.26 to 0.55 as the Mn‐doping concentration increases from x = 0.00 to 0.10. It reveals the enhancement of ferroelectric behavior and suppression of the leakage current density. The drastic change in the phase image contrast of magnetic force micrographs with increasing Mn‐doping concentration in BiFe1−xMnxO3 also indicates the improvement of the ferromagnetism.
Bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity from harvest to edible ripeness of avocado cv. Hass (Persea americana) throughout the harvest seasons
Authors: Campos David , Teran‐Hilares Felix , Chirinos Rosana , Aguilar‐Galvez Ana , García‐Ríos Diego , Pacheco‐Avalos Alejandro , Pedreschi Romina
Published: December 2019

The influence of regular air cold storage (7 °C and 85 ± 5% RH) followed by ripening at shelf‐life conditions (19–21 °C and 65 ± 5% RH), on bioactive compounds of Hass avocados was investigated. Results showed that the content of mannoheptulose and perseitol decreased significantly already during cold storage and ripening period. The fatty acid profile and contents of tocopherols (α‐ and β‐tocopherol) and phytosterols (β‐sitosterol, stigmasterol, campesterol) remained unchanged from day 0 to edible ripeness. Total phenolics, hydrophilic and lipophilic antioxidant capacity remained unchanged during cold storage and increased during the ripening period. At edible ripeness, significant amounts of phenolic acids, p‐coumaric and caffeic and their derivatives were synthesised. Our results demonstrated that regular air cold storage for up to 37 days followed by ripening at shelf‐life conditions enhances the phenolic compounds and mainly the hydrophilic antioxidant capacity without affecting the remaining bioactive compounds in Hass avocado.
Addition of grape pomace in the hydration step of parboiling increases the antioxidant properties of rice
Authors: Balbinoti Thaisa Carvalho Volpe , Stafussa Ana Paula , Haminiuk Charles Windson Isidoro , Maciel Giselle Maria , Sassaki Guilherme Lanzi , Jorge Luiz Mário de Matos , Jorge Regina Maria Matos
Published: December 2019

The conventional parboiling process decreases the total phenolic compounds (TPC) and the antioxidant activity (AA) of rice. In order to change this nutritional disadvantage, in this research we have proposed an unusual solution. Here, we added grape pomace (agro‐industrial waste) in the process during the parboiling as a source of bioactive compounds (BC). An increase in the concentrations of TPC, flavonoids anthocyanins and antioxidant activity was found. Moreover, there was slightly change in the final colour of the rice (which tended towards red) in addition to added proline (NMR spectra), which is an amino acid that is characteristic of grapes. Therefore, we concluded that it is possible to improve the functionality of parboiled rice with the addition of grape pomace, besides promoting the valorisation and use of an agro‐industrial waste rich in secondary metabolites.
Influence of cooking method, fat content and food additives on physicochemical and nutritional properties of beef meatballs fortified with sugarcane fibre
Authors: Mena Behannis , Fang Zhongxiang , Ashman Hollis , Hutchings Scott , Ha Minh , Shand Phyllis J. , Warner Robyn D.
Published: December 2019

This study explored effects of different cooking methods, pork fat addition and food additives on physicochemical and nutritional attributes of beef meatballs fortified, or not, with 3% sugarcane fibre. TPA hardness of meatballs with fibre, cooked in boiling water, was lower compared to oven‐baked and pan‐fried (47.11, 56.24 and 59.22 N, respectively). Hardness also decreased with increasing fat content (5%, 10%, 15% and 20% fat; 62.07, 56.96, 54.02 and 45.51 N, respectively). Tetrasodium pyrophosphate and sodium tripolyphosphate provided similar results for all parameters except ash content where cooked meatballs with the latter were higher (1.98% and 2.22%, respectively). Cooking loss of 20% fat meatballs with fibre was lower (17.14%) compared to without fibre (20.28%). Loss of nutrients after cooking was lower for oven‐baked compared to boiling. Using different ingredients to manipulate quality traits of meatballs is an alternative to manufacture suitable products for different market requirements, for example for elderly consumers.
Male microchimerism in peripheral blood from women with multiple sclerosis in Isfahan Province
Authors: Jafarinia Morteza , Amoon Mina , Javid Ameneh , Vakili Sina , Sadeghi Erfan , Azadi Davood , Alsahebfosoul Fereshteh
Published: December 2019

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is referred to as an organ‐specific T‐cell‐mediated autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Different genetic and environmental factors increase the risk of developing MS. In recent years, microchimerism (Mc) has been widely studied in autoimmune diseases, although the exact role of this phenomenon in human health is not known well. Microchimerism is the low level presence of DNA or cells from one individual into the tissue or circulation of another individual. In the current study, we evaluated the association of fetal microchimerism (FMc) with MS in Isfahan province. In this study, we enrolled 68 women in four groups. Two groups were MS patients with or without a pregnancy for a son, and the other two groups were MS‐negative patients with or without a pregnancy for a son. The presence of the male genome assessed and compared in these groups. Four millilitres of peripheral blood were collected from all subjects in the tube containing EDTA and DNA was extracted. Real‐time PCR assay was used for the DAZ (deleted in azoospermia) region Yq 11.23 as a marker for male microchimerism in all subjects. Our results showed that the percentage of DAZ (male genome)‐positive women was significantly higher in MS‐positive women given birth to a son in comparison with the other three groups. Our results also revealed no significant correlation between the percentage of DAZ‐positive women and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score and age of onset in the patients’ group. For future studies, we suggest enrolling subjects who MS diagnosis occurred before and after pregnancy with a son. Comparing FMc in these two groups might provide a better understanding of the possible role of FMc in later development of MS.
Synthesis and structure determination of calcium silicate‐cellulose nanograss biocomposite
Authors: Biswas Nilormi , Samanta Aniruddha , Mitra Sanchali , Biswas Ripan , Podder Soumik , Sanyal Ambarish , Ghosh Jiten , Ghosh Chandan Kumar , Mukhopadhyay Anoop Kumar
Published: December 2019

The 100% phase pure calcium silicate nanoparticles (CSNPs) of the α‐wollastonite phase by hydrothermal synthesis is achieved first. Next this work reports the first‐ever microwave‐assisted low temperature synthesis of calcium silicate‐cellulose nanograss composites. The characterization by FESEM studies confirm that calcium silicate‐cellulose composites possess the nanograss like morphology spread over the matrix of calcium silicate. The structural information of the calcium silicate‐cellulose composites are derived by both theoretical and experimental techniques. Low‐energy ground state geometrical structures of the cellulose on the triclinic wollastonite surfaces and their interactions have been primarily determined by Density Functional Theory. Accordingly, the short‐range structural information is confirmed by Pair Distribution Function analysis. Structural information along with binding interactions are also confirmed from X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The implications of these detailed analysis of structures in tuning the properties of such ceramic polymeric hybrid composites for futuristic endodontic application is discussed.
Non‐medical interventions for individuals with Rett syndrome: A systematic review
Authors: Amoako Annika Nina , Hare Dougal Julian
Published: December 2019

Background

Research into Rett syndrome has included various medical interventions. Non‐medical interventions are relatively under‐researched. Recent technological communication intervention advances have contributed to the evidence base in Rett syndrome.

Method

The Embase, PsycINFO and MEDLINE were systematically searched for peer‐reviewed papers describing non‐medical interventions for Rett syndrome. All identified papers were evaluated for methodological quality.

Results

Thirteen studies of adequate methodological quality were reviewed (acrossN = 60 participants). Interventions were primarily communication interventions including music, assistive technology, augmentative and alternative communication strategies, attentional training and cognitive rehabilitation training. All studies reported positive outcomes across communication, quality of life, brain stem activity, physical fitness and a reduction in stereotyped behaviour. However, methodological challenges to generalizability, standardization, lack of follow‐up and/or small‐N samples were common.

Conclusions

The review highlights the paucity of high‐quality research. Future research is needed to build on current research and improve validity and generalizability of interventions.
Foreign currency borrowing surrounding the global financial crisis: Evidence from Korea
Authors: Bae Sung C. , Kim Hyeon Sook , Kwon Taek Ho
Published: December 2019

We present a complete profile of firms’ foreign currency borrowing surrounding the 2007 global financial crisis. Employing extensive data from Korean firms during 2002–2012, we find that foreign currency borrowing is significantly related to firm attributes of export revenues, firm size, tangible assets and asset growth, as well as to macro‐level factors. These results offer two important implications. First, macroeconomic factors alone cannot fully explain firms’ foreign currency borrowing. Second and more importantly, these firm attributes are indicative of a lower default probability and larger collateral value, which would not only facilitate borrowers’ access to foreign currency debt markets but also offer lenders a better protective cushion from possible loan defaults in the face of exchange rate changes and information asymmetry on borrowers’ credits. Period wise, asset‐related firm attributes have more pronounced effects in the post‐ than pre‐crisis period. We further show that banking regulations following the crisis effectively limit the access to foreign currency borrowing by Korean firms, most significantly by those belonging to large business groups.
Periodontitis is associated with oral health‐related quality of life in individuals with end‐stage renal disease
Authors: Oliveira Leandro M. , Sari Daniélli , Schöffer Caroline , Santi Samantha S. , Antoniazzi Raquel P. , Zanatta Fabrício B.
Published: December 2019

Aim

The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether periodontitis is independently associated with oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) in individuals with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD).

Materials and Methods

Calibrated examiners assessed 180 adults with ESRD. A full‐mouth periodontal examination was performed at six sites on each tooth. Periodontitis was considered a categorical variable (absent, mild/moderate or severe). OHRQoL was assessed using the simplified version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP14) questionnaire. Adjusted multivariate Poisson regression analysis was used with a conceptual hierarchical approach to calculate the rate ratio (RR) of OHIP14 scores for periodontitis according to the severity categories.

Results

In the adjusted model, mild/moderate and severe periodontitis were significantly associated with poorer OHRQoL compared to the absence of periodontitis [RR = 1.49 (95% confidence interval: 1.16–1.91) and RR 1.77 (95% CI: 1.36–2.30), respectively]. The adjusted domain‐specific analysis revealed that mild/moderate periodontitis significantly impacted the psychological disability domain and severe periodontitis significantly impacted the physical pain, psychological discomfort, physical disability and psychological disability domains.

Conclusions

Periodontitis exerts an influence on OHRQoL in individuals with ESRD, with a more severe condition impacting different domains.
Association between mean platelet volume in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetic macrovascular complications in Japanese patients
Authors: Inoue Hiroyuki , Saito Mayumi , Kouchi Kumiko , Asahara Shun‐ichiro , Nakamura Fumihiko , Kido Yoshiaki
Published: December 2019

Aims/Introduction

Mean platelet volume (MPV) is a widely used biological marker of platelet function and activity. Increased MPV is associated with accelerated thrombopoiesis and an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease. However, it is not known whether higher MPV is related to the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and diabetic macrovascular complications in Japanese patients. Therefore, we analyzed MPV and its correlation with atherosclerosis in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes and those who had prediabetes.

Materials and Methods

We divided the patients into three groups: normoglycemic patients (n = 56), prediabetes patients (n = 44) and type 2 diabetes patients group, (n = 115). We measured platelet parameters and evaluated arterial stiffness in the three groups.

Results

Significantly higher MPV was found in the type 2 diabetes mellitus and prediabetes patients compared with normoglycemic patients. MPV was significantly correlated with fasting blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin levels. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that MPV was positively correlated with HbA1c, even after adjustment for confounding factors. In the evaluation of arterial stiffness by measuring the cardio‐ankle vascular index and maximum intima‐media thickness, MPV showed a positive correlation with these parameters.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that MPV was significantly increased in the early stage of type 2 diabetes. We showed positive correlations between MPV and HbA1c levels, and between MPV and arterial stiffness in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes.
Circular economy innovations, growth and employment at the firm level: Empirical evidence from Germany
Authors: Horbach Jens , Rammer Christian
Published: December 2019

Circular economy (CE) describes a concept that aims at saving resources by minimizing the use of material and energy over the entire life‐cycle of products, including production and repair, as well as reuse and recycling. CE innovations help to realize the goals of sustainable development by targeting environmental, economic, and social dimensions of sustainability. This paper looks at the economic and social dimensions by investigating whether firms with CE innovations perform better or worse in terms of sales growth and employment. Our econometric analysis uses data from two waves of the German part of the Community Innovation Survey. Quantile regressions show that CE innovations are positively linked to turnover and employment growth. While there is no statistically significant impact on labor productivity, at the same time, firms with CE innovations show a significantly better financial standing.
Erbium fractional laser irradiation combined with autologous platelet‐rich plasma and platelet‐poor plasma application for facial rejuvenation
Authors: Cai JinHui , Tian Ju , Chen Kui , Cheng Liu‐Hang‐Hang , Xuan Min , Cheng Biao
Published: December 2019

Background

Erbium fractional laser treatment has immense skin rejuvenation effects, but it is associated with side effects such as erythema and pigmentation. Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) can enhance the restorative effects of Erbium fractional laser, but there are few studies on this combined treatment in the Asian population, and no study has examined the effects of adding platelet‐poor plasma (PPP) to the combination.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the effects and safety of Erbium fractional laser irradiation combined with autologous PRP and PPP therapy for facial rejuvenation.

Methods

Between January 2010 and June 2016, 158 patients with facial skin aging were treated by Erbium fractional laser irradiation combined with autologous PRP and PPP. After three sessions, patients and experienced physicians evaluated the effectiveness of the treatment.

Results

The symptoms of skin aging, especially skin color, pore expansion, and skin texture, showed obvious improvement after the treatment, according to the evaluation of the patients and the physicians, who reported a total treatment effectiveness rate of 90.51% and 88.61%, respectively. The treatment was well‐tolerated by all the participants, and no hyperpigmentation or depigmentation was observed in any of the cases. The reported side effects were edema (1‐3 days), erythema (2‐4 days), and crusting (3‐10 days).

Conclusion

Erbium fractional laser irradiation combined with PRP and PPP application is an effective and safe approach for improving facial skin aging and has minimal side effects. Future investigations on a bigger sample with a longer follow‐up period should focus on optimizing the treatment protocol and settings.
Consumption Fluctuations and Expected Returns
Authors: ATANASOV VICTORIA , MØLLER STIG V. , PRIESTLEY RICHARD
Published: December 2019

This paper introduces a novel consumption‐based variable, cyclical consumption, and examines its predictive properties for stock returns. Future expected stock returns are high (low) when aggregate consumption falls (rises) relative to its trend and marginal utility from current consumption is high (low). We show that the empirical evidence ties consumption decisions of agents to time variation in returns in a manner consistent with asset pricing models based on external habit formation. The predictive power of cyclical consumption is not confined to bad times and subsumes the predictability of many popular forecasting variables.
Accounting for surveillance
Authors: Jones Rodney H.
Published: December 2019

This contribution discusses the ways people hold themselves and others accountable for everyday practices of surveillance. It analyses three examples: (1) the “breeching experiments” of the video artist “Surveillance Camera Man,” (2) a “stop and frisk” incident involving a 17‐year‐old boy in Harlem, and (3) the pop‐up windows on websites that ask for users’ consent to use “cookies.” Understanding the relationship between language and securitization, it is argued, requires that we pay attention to the interactional basis of surveillance and the ways rights and responsibilities are negotiated, ratified, challenged, or ignored in the moment‐by‐moment unfolding of communication.
Embodying the breach: (In)securitization and ethnographic engagement in the US
Authors: Mangual Figueroa Ariana
Published: December 2019

In this commentary, the author offers three related perspectives regarding (in)securitization: first, an overview of ongoing discussions taking place among US‐based ethnographers of colour about the effects of surveillance on ethnography; second, an example of the impact that (in)securitization may have on the researcher/researched relationship in contemporary ethnographic research; and third, an extension of Garfinkel’s notion of the “breach” within the current sociopolitical context. Throughout this essay, the author calls for a greater sense of connection to and solidarity with those “vulnerable subjects” that we engage with ethnographically.
An estimation of the prevalence of occult HBV infection in Western Europe and in Northern America: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Pisaturo Mariantonietta , Onorato Lorenzo , Russo Antonio , Chiodini Paolo , Coppola Nicola
Published: December 2019

Data on the prevalence of occult HBV infection (OBI) in Western Europe and in Northern America are few; hence, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis. All studies included had to fulfil the following inclusion criteria: (a) they investigated the prevalence of OBI (HBV DNA in liver tissue in HBsAg‐negative subjects), (b) were carried out in Western Europe and in Northern America; (c) were available as a full‐text manuscript, (d) written in English and (e) published up to December 2018. The exclusion criteria were as follows: (a) meta‐analyses, letters, reviews, meeting abstracts or editorial comments; (b) studies investigating HBsAg‐positive patients; (c) those investigating OBI outside Western Europe and in Northern America; and (d) to avoid small sample bias in the random‐effects model, those enrolling less than five subjects. Thirty‐four studies met the inclusion criteria, allowing a meta‐analysis on 2729 patients. The overall prevalence of OBI was 34% (95% CI = 26%‐42%), 28% (CI 95%: 12%‐48%) in 329 subjects without chronic liver disease and 35% (95% CI 26%‐44%) in 2400 patients with chronic liver disease. The prevalence of OBI was 51% (95% CI 40%‐62%) in the 823 anti‐HBc‐positive subjects and 19% (95% CI 10%‐30%) in the 1,041 anti‐HBc‐negative subjects. Evaluating the data from 17 studies comparing anti‐HBc‐positive and negative subjects, the prevalence of OBI was higher in the 641 anti‐HBc‐positive subjects than in the 1041 anti‐HBc‐negative (prevalence ratio = 2.29; 95% CI = 1.61‐3.26, P < .001). This meta‐analysis showed that in HBsAg‐negative subjects the prevalence of OBI was high and was associated with anti‐HBc positivity.
Knowledge about the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease is independently associated with variation in diet quality during pregnancy
Authors: McKerracher Luseadra , Moffat Tina , Barker Mary , McConnell Meghan , Atkinson Stephanie A. , Murray‐Davis Beth , McDonald Sarah D. , Sloboda Deborah M.
Published: December 2019

Environmental factors affecting development through embryogenesis, pregnancy, and infancy impact health through all subsequent stages of life. Known as the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) hypothesis, this concept is widely accepted among health and social scientists. However, it is unclear whether DOHaD‐based ideas are reaching the general public and/or influencing behaviour. This study thus investigated whether and under what circumstances pregnant people in Canada are familiar with DOHaD, and if DOHaD familiarity relates to eating behaviour. Survey responses from pregnant people from Hamilton, Canada, were used to assess respondents' knowledge of DOHaD (hereafter, DOHaDKNOWLEDGE) compared with their knowledge of more general pregnancy health recommendations (Pregnancy GuidelineKNOWLEDGE). The survey also characterized respondents' pregnancy diet quality and sociodemographic profiles. We fit two multiple, linear, mixed regression models to the data, one with DOHaDKNOWLEDGE score as the dependent variable and the other with diet quality score as the dependent. In both models, responses were clustered by respondents' neighbourhoods. Complete, internally consistent responses were available for 330 study‐eligible respondents. Relative to Pregnancy GuidelineKNOWLEDGE, respondents had lower, more variable DOHaDKNOWLEDGE scores. Additionally, higher DOHaDKNOWLEDGE was associated with higher socio‐economic position, older age, and lower parity, independent of Pregnancy GuidelineKNOWLEDGE. Diet quality during pregnancy was positively associated with DOHaDKNOWLEDGE, adjusting for sociodemographic factors. A subset of relatively high socio‐economic position respondents was familiar with DOHaD. Greater familiarity with DOHaD was associated with better pregnancy diet quality, hinting that translating DOHaD knowledge to pregnant people may motivate improved pregnancy nutrition and thus later‐life health for developing babies.
Smartphone applications available to pregnant women in the United Kingdom: An assessment of nutritional information
Authors: Bland Catherine , Dalrymple Kathryn V. , White Sara L. , Moore Amanda , Poston Lucilla , Flynn Angela C.
Published: December 2019

The importance of diet during pregnancy is critically important for the short‐ and long‐term health of both mother and child. The number of apps targeting pregnant women is rapidly increasing, yet the nutritional content of these tools remains largely unexplored. This review aimed to evaluate the coverage and content of nutrition information in smartphone apps available to U.K. pregnant women. Keyword searches were conducted in iTunes and Google Play stores in November 2018. Candidate apps were included if they targeted pregnant women, provided pregnancy‐specific nutritional information, had a user rating of at least 4+ based on at least 20 ratings, and were available in English. Nutritional content was assessed for accuracy against U.K. recommendations. Behaviour change techniques (BCTs) were also evaluated. Twenty‐nine apps were included, seven of which originated in the United Kingdom. There was a large variability in the quality of smartphone app nutritional information. The accuracy of nutrition information varied, and several apps conveyed inappropriate information for pregnancy. On average, 10 BCTs were identified per app (range 2–15). Overall, smartphone apps do not consistently provide accurate and useful nutritional information to pregnant women. This study highlights the need for the integration of evidence‐based nutritional information during app development and for increased regulatory oversight. App developers should also make it clear that nutritional content is intended for a specific geographical region or population or modify for the intended audience. These are important considerations for the design of future apps, which are increasingly used to complement existing maternity services.
Trends and factors associated with complementary feeding practices in Ethiopia from 2005 to 2016
Authors: Ahmed Kedir Y. , Page Andrew , Arora Amit , Ogbo Felix Akpojene
Published: December 2019

Introducing appropriate complementary feeding at 6 months of age is crucial for the optimal growth and development of an infant. In Ethiopia, however, no previous national‐level studies have examined the trends and associated factors of complementary feeding practices. The aim of this study is to investigate the trends and determinants of complementary feeding practices in Ethiopia from 2005 to 2016. The study was conducted using the Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS) data for 2005 (N = 2,520), 2011 (N = 2,850), and 2016 (N = 2,864). Percentage point changes in complementary feeding indicators were estimated to examine the trends over the EDHS years. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the association between socioeconomic, demographic, health service, and community‐level factors and (a) the introduction of complementary foods, (b) minimum dietary diversity (MDD), (c) minimum meal frequency (MMF), and (d) minimum acceptable diet (MAD). The proportion of mothers who met MDD increased from 6.3% to 13.5% (p < .001), and MAD increased from 4.1% to 7.1% (p = .003) from 2005 to 2016. Improvements in the introduction of complementary foods (from 50.3% to 59.5%, p = .051) and MMF (from 41.3% to 43.6%, p = .288) were not statistically significant. Maternal education and occupation were associated with the introduction of complementary foods, MDD, MMF, and MAD. Higher partner education and frequent antenatal visits were associated with MDD and MAD. Children whose mothers listened to the radio had higher odds of MDD, MMF, and MAD. Our analysis of the EDHS suggests that the proportion of MDD and MAD were unacceptably low. Interventions aiming to improve complementary feeding practices in Ethiopia should also target mothers with low education, antenatal service usage, and media exposure.
Maternal depression is associated with child undernutrition: A cross‐sectional study in Ethiopia
Authors: Anato Anchamo , Baye Kaleab , Tafese Zelalem , Stoecker Barbara J.
Published: December 2019

Child undernutrition is widespread in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC) and is associated with health and economic losses. Undernutrition is estimated to contribute to 3.1 million deaths per year in children less than 5 years of age. A complex causal and contextual factors contributing to child undernutrition have been assessed, but maternal depression, which could contribute to child undernutrition by interfering with the mother's child caring practice and ability, has been received little attention. The objective of this study was to assess the association between maternal postpartum depression symptoms and infant (5–10 months of age) stunting in northern Ethiopia. A community‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted among mother–infant pairs (n= 232) between March and April 2018. Through interviewer‐administrated questionnaire, information on sociodemographic variables were collected, and maternal depression symptoms were assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS≥13). Infants' length and weight were measured and converted to length and weight for age Z scores using the WHO growth standards. Breastfeeding was a norm, but the adequacy of complementary feeding practice was sub‐optimal. Only 25% of the infants met the minimum meal frequency (MMF), less than 10% met the minimum dietary diversity (MMD; 9%) or minimum acceptable diet (7%). Maternal depression was prevalent (22.8%) and was significantly associated with inappropriate complementary feeding and stunting (P< .05). Improving complementary feeding practices is central to preventing stunting in this and other settings. However, such efforts should integrate interventions that address maternal depression to improve child feeding and caring practices to effectively prevent stunting.
Molecular responses to freshwater limitation in the mangrove tree Avicennia germinans (Acanthaceae)
Authors: Cruz Mariana Vargas , Mori Gustavo Maruyama , Oh Dong‐Ha , Dassanayake Maheshi , Zucchi Maria Imaculada , Oliveira Rafael Silva , Souza Anete Pereira de
Published: December 2019

Environmental variation along the geographical space can shape populations by natural selection. In the context of global warming and changing precipitation regimes, it is crucial to understand the role of environmental heterogeneity in tropical trees adaptation, given their disproportional contribution to water and carbon biogeochemical cycles. Here, we investigated how heterogeneity in freshwater availability along tropical wetlands has influenced molecular variations of the black mangrove (Avicennia germinans). A total of 57 trees were sampled at seven sites differing markedly in precipitation regime and riverine freshwater inputs. Using 2,297 genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphic markers, we found signatures of natural selection by the association between variations in allele frequencies and environmental variables, including the precipitation of the warmest quarter and the annual precipitation. Additionally, we found candidate loci for selection based on statistical deviations from neutral expectations of interpopulation differentiation. Most candidate loci within transcribed sequences were functionally associated with central aspects of drought tolerance or plant response to drought. Moreover, our results suggest the occurrence of the rapid evolution of a population, probably in response to sudden and persistent limitations in plant access to soil water, following a road construction in 1974. Observations supporting rapid evolution included the reduction in tree size and changes in allele frequencies and in transcript expression associated with increased drought tolerance through the accumulation of osmoprotectants and antioxidants, biosynthesis of cuticles, protection against protein degradation, stomatal closure, photorespiration and photosynthesis. We describe a major role of spatial heterogeneity in freshwater availability in the specialization of this typically tropical tree.