bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of the hedonic threshold methodology in determining the compromised acceptance threshold
Authors: Lima Filho Tarcísio , Della Lucia Suzana Maria , Minim Luis Antônio , Silva Rita de Cássia dos Santos Navarro da , Silva Alexandre Navarro da , Minim Valéria Paula Rodrigues
Published: March 2017

The compromised acceptance threshold (CAT) indicates the intensity of a stimulus from which product acceptance is significantly altered. This new affective threshold is determined by hedonic threshold methodology (HTM). The levels of analytical performance associated with precision (repeatability, intermediate precision, and reproducibility), accuracy, and robustness of CAT results were investigated. The methodology met the pre‐established criteria, being accurate in assessments carried out consecutively (repeatability), in tests separated by a certain period of time as well as with different consumer panels (intermediate precision), and in tests carried out in different facilities (reproducibility). The methodology presented suitable accuracy, though slightly conservative, which may be desirable. The methodology was also shown to be robust as it allowed the reduction of panel members from 150 to 70 consumers. In this context, the methodology—which presented reliable results as well as high precision, accuracy, and robustness—was validated.

Practical applications

The need for showing the quality of sensory measurements is being increasingly recognized and required for the acceptance of new methodologies within the scientific community, given that unreliable analytical data may lead to dreadful decisions as well as long‐lasting financial losses. Results from the present work show that the data obtained through the hedonic threshold methodology/compromised acceptance threshold methodology met all criteria of the evaluated analytical indexes. Thus, one may conclude that this methodology has suitable precision (repeatability, intermediate precision, and reproducibility), accuracy, and robustness (by reducing consumer panel size) levels and is efficient in providing reliable results. Hence, this method can be applied for the intended purpose.
A retrospective case comparison study of the relationship between an Integrated Care Pathway for people diagnosed with schizophrenia in acute mental health care and service users’ length of stay, readmission rates and follow‐up within 7 days of discharge
Authors: Attfield J. , Brown S. , Carter T. , Callaghan P.
Published: March 2017

Accessible summary

What is known on the subject?

There is some evidence reporting the value of diagnostic‐driven Integrated Care Pathways (ICPs) in reducing service users’ length of inpatient stay, readmission rates and follow‐up within seven days of discharge, but this evidence is untested in studies comparing care using ICP with other forms of care planning.

What this study adds to existing knowledge?

This study present findings from research comparing care in a Trust that uses an ICP with a Trust using another form of care planning to direct the care of people diagnosed with schizophrenia. We were interested particularly in whether using an ICP was linked to length of inpatient stay, readmission rates and follow‐up care within seven days of discharge.

The results compare ICP driven care with another form of care.

This study adds to the international evidence by being among the first to compare empirically, outcomes in a mental health Trust using an ICP with a Trust not using an ICP to direct care.

What are the implications for practice?

Mental health nurses are central to the delivery of the psychosocial aspects of ICPs in particular and judging by the link between psychosocial interventions and quality of mental health care, it is possible that nurse‐led psychosocial interventions contributed to the reduced length of stay.

Background

Integrated Care Pathways (ICPs) are used to deliver mental health services, yet evidence relating to outcomes is mixed.

Aim

To compare service users’ length of stay, readmission rates and follow‐up within 7 days of discharge in a mental health Trust using an ICP to direct the care of people diagnosed with schizophrenia with a Trust using a nonICP method of care planning in England.Method:

A cohort study with a random sample of 400 service users with outcomes analysed retrospectively.

Results

The ICP Trust had a 13.5 day shorter average length of stay, this difference was statistically significant. No statistically significant differences were observed in rates of readmission or follow‐up within 7 days of discharge.

Discussion and implications

Mental health nurses are central to the delivery of the psychosocial aspects of ICPs in particular and judging by the link between psychosocial interventions and quality of mental health care, it is possible that nurse‐led psychosocial interventions contributed to the reduced length of stay.
Evolution of the Chlorophyta: Insights from chloroplast phylogenomic analyses
Authors: Fang Ling , Leliaert Frederik , Zhang Zhen‐Hua , Penny David , Zhong Bo‐Jian
Published: March 2017

Green plants comprise two main clades: the Streptophyta, which include charophyte green algae and the embryophytic land plants, and the Chlorophyta including a wide diversity of marine, freshwater, and terrestrial green algae. Establishing a robust phylogeny is important to provide an evolutionary framework for comparative and functional studies. During the last two decades our understanding of the evolution of green algae has profoundly changed, first by phylogenetic analyses of nuclear ribosomal sequence data (mainly 18S), and more recently by analyses of multi‐gene and chloroplast genomic data. The phylogenetic relationships among the main streptophytan lineages have been extensively studied and are now relatively well resolved. Although a lot of progress has been made in the last few years, the phylogenetic relationships in the Chlorophyta are still less well established. Here we review how chloroplast genomic data have contributed to address relationships among the main chlorophytan lineages. We highlight recent progress and conflicts among different studies, and discuss future directions in chloroplast phylogenomics of green algae.
Associations Between Anesthetic Variables and Functional Outcome in Dogs With Thoracolumbar Intervertebral Disk Extrusion Undergoing Decompressive Hemilaminectomy
Authors: Fenn J. , Laber E. , Williams K. , Rousse C.A. , Early P.J. , Mariani C.L. , Muñana K.R. , De Decker S. , Volk H.A. , Olby N.J.
Published: March 2017

Background

Outcome of acute experimental spinal cord injury is strongly associated with tissue perfusion and oxygenation. Cardiopulmonary depression could affect outcome in dogs undergoing general anesthesia for surgical treatment of thoracolumbar intervertebral disk extrusion (IVDE).

Hypothesis/Objectives

To evaluate the effects of general anesthesia on functional outcome in dogs undergoing surgery to treat thoracolumbar IVDE.

Animals

Eighty‐four client‐owned dogs with acute thoracolumbar IVDE treated by decompressive hemilaminectomy.

Methods

Exploratory, retrospective observational study. Medical records were reviewed for clinical presentation and anesthetic monitoring variables, including duration of anesthesia and surgery, hypotension, bradycardia, temperature, and respiratory parameters. Multivariable regression tree analysis was performed to explore associations between anesthetic variables and functional outcome scores after 6 weeks, as well as return to ambulatory status.

Results

Episodes of bradycardia (69%) and hypotension (57%) were frequent. Across all outcome measures, regression tree analysis highlighted functional grade at presentation as the primary determining factor, and among pain perception negative dogs, there was a possible association between increased duration of surgery and poorer outcome. In dogs with intact pain perception, duration of bradycardia, mean body temperature, and mean end‐tidal carbon dioxide were highlighted.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Exploratory statistical methods can facilitate hypothesis‐generating studies to inform prospective investigations in veterinary medicine. Although the mechanism is uncertain, increased duration of surgery might be associated with poorer outcome in pain perception negative dogs with thoracolumbar IVDE.
Third‐Degree Atrioventricular Block and Collapse Associated with Eosinophilic Myocarditis in a Horse
Authors: Luethy D. , Slack J. , Kraus M.S. , Gelzer A.R. , Habecker P. , Johnson A.L.
Published: March 2017

Third‐degree atrioventricular block (AVB) and primary inflammatory myocarditis are uncommon findings in horses. The horse of this report presented for collapse at rest and was found to have multiple cardiac arrhythmias, most notably 3rd‐degree AVB. The horse was subsequently diagnosed with eosinophilic myocarditis on necropsy, a rare form of myocarditis not previously reported in horses. Despite extensive testing, an etiologic agent could not be identified, illustrating the difficulty in identifying a specific cause of myocarditis in horses.
Hepatic and Plasma Endothelin‐1 in Dogs with Chronic Hepatitis
Authors: Sakamoto Y. , Sakai M. , Watari T.
Published: March 2017

Background

Endothelin (ET)‐1 is a 21‐amino‐acid peptide with potent vasoactive properties, which increases intrahepatic resistance in patients with chronic hepatitis (CH) or cirrhosis. ET‐1 concentrations have not been investigated in dogs with CH.

Hypothesis/Objectives

This study compared hepatic and plasma ET‐1 levels in healthy dogs and in dogs with CH, and examined the relationship between the plasma ET‐1 level and portal vein pressure in dogs with CH.

Animals

Fourteen healthy dogs and twenty dogs with CH were used in this study.

Methods

Prospective case‐control study. Hepatic ET‐1 mRNA expression was determined by real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and hepatic and plasma ET‐1 levels were assessed using ELISA. Splenic pulp pressure (SPP), as an indicator of portal vein pressure, was measured laparoscopically.

Results

Hepatic ET‐1 mRNA levels were 3.7 times higher in dogs with CH than in healthy dogs (P = .008). The median hepatic and plasma ET‐1 protein levels were significantly higher in dogs with CH than in healthy dogs (13.20 pg/mg wet liver vs. 3.42 pg/mg wet liver, P = .004, and 0.99 pg/mL vs. 0.71 pg/mL, P = .013, respectively). Moreover, there was a weak but significant correlation between plasma ET‐1 level and SPP in dogs with CH (P = .036; rs = 0.53).

Conclusions and clinical importance

The results indicate that ET‐1 might play an important role in the pathogenesis of portal hypertension caused by CH.
Effectiveness of maternal egg attendance in an exclusively cave‐dwelling harvestman (Arachnida: Opiliones)
Authors: García‐Hernández S. , Machado G.
Published: March 2017

Egg attendance is the most common and phylogenetically widespread form of post‐ovipositional care among ectotherms. The main benefit of egg attendance is to enhance offspring survival by preventing or attenuating attacks from natural enemies. In arachnids, there are few experimental studies on the benefits of egg attendance, and they pertain to species living in few types of habitats, mainly forests. To understand how the benefits of egg attendance vary in large geographical scales, we need to include species from poorly explored habitats, such as caves. Here, we describe a case of maternal egg attendance in an exclusive cave‐dwelling harvestman, Phalangodus briareos. Using a parent removal experiment, we also assessed the benefits of egg attendance. We found that egg attendance improves egg survival because unattended clutches were almost entirely consumed by conspecifics and crickets. When females were maintained on their clutches, egg survival was always high, regardless of female body size. There was a positive effect of clutch size on egg predation, which was higher during nighttime. We suggest that larger clutches emit more chemical cues, attracting more predators in the cave habitat. Finally, we argue that the benefits of egg protection should be higher inside caves when compared to external habitats because food is scarce inside caves and the fauna consists mainly of predators and detritivores.
Constitutional and functional genetics of human alcohol‐related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Nahon Pierre , Nault Jean‐Charles
Published: March 2017

Exploration of the constitutional genetics of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has identified numerous variants associated with a higher risk of liver cancer in alcoholic cirrhotic patients. Although Genome‐Wide Association studies have not been carried out in the field of alcohol‐related HCC, common single nucleotide polymorphisms conferring a small increase in the risk of liver cancer risk have been identified and shown to modulate ethanol metabolism, inflammation, oxidative stress, iron or lipid metabolism. Specific patterns of gene mutations including CTNNB1, TERT, ARID1A and SMARCA2 exist in alcohol‐related HCC. Moreover, a specific mutational process observed at the nucleotide level by next generation sequencing has revealed cooperation between alcohol and tobacco in the development of HCC. Combining this genetic information with epidemiological and clinical data that might define specific HCC risk classes and refine surveillance strategies needs to be assessed in large prospective cohorts of patients with alcoholic cirrhosis.
Secondary‐volatiles linked metallic iron in eucrites: The dual‐origin metals of Camel Donga
Authors: Warren Paul H. , Isa Junko , Ebihara Mitsuru , Yamaguchi Akira , Baecker Bastian
Published: March 2017

The unique occurrence of abundant (~1 vol%) near‐pure‐Fe metal in the Camel Donga eucrite is more complicated than previously believed. In addition to that component of groundmass metal, scattered within the meteorite are discrete nodules of much higher kamacite abundance. We have studied the petrology and composition of two of these nodules in the form of samples we call CD2 and CD3. The nodules are ovoids 11 (CD2) to 15 (CD3) mm across, with metal, or inferred preweathering metal, abundances of 12–17 vol% (CD2 is unfortunately quite weathered). The CD3 nodule also includes at its center a 5 mm ovoid clumping (6 vol%) of F‐apatite. Both nodules are fine‐grained, so the high Fe metal and apatite contents are clearly not flukes of inadequate sampling. The metals within the nodules are distinctly Ni‐rich (0.3–0.6 wt%) compared to the pure‐Fe (Ni generally 0.01 wt%) groundmass metals. Bulk analyses of three pieces of the CD2 nodule show that trace siderophile elements Ir, Os, and Co are commensurately enriched; Au is enriched to a lesser degree. The siderophile evidence shows the nodules did not form by in situ reduction of pyroxene FeO. Moreover, the nodules do not show features such as silica‐phase enrichment or pyroxene with reduced FeO (as constrained by FeO/MgO and especially FeO/MnO) predicted by the in situ reduction model. The oxide minerals, even in groundmass samples well away from the nodules, also show little evidence of reduction. Although the nodule boundaries are generally sharp, groundmass‐metal Ni content is anti‐correlated with distance from the CD3 nodule. We infer that the nodules represent materials that originated within impactors into the Camel Donga portion of the eucrite crust, but probably were profoundly altered during later metamorphism/metasomatism. Origin of the pure‐Fe groundmass metal remains enigmatic. In situ reduction probably played an important role, and association in the same meteorite of the Fe‐nodules is probably significant. But the fluid during alteration was probably not (as previously modeled) purely S and O, of simple heat‐driven internal derivation. We conjecture a two‐stage metasomatism, as fluids passed through Camel Donga after impact heating of volatile‐rich chondritic masses (survivors of gentle accretionary impacts) within the nearby crust. First, reduction to form troilite may have been triggered by fluids rich in S2 and CO (derived from the protonodules?), and then in a distinct later stage, fluids were (comparatively) H2O‐rich, and thus reacted with troilite to form pure‐Fe metal along with H2S and SO2. The early eucrite crust was in places a dynamic fluid‐bearing environment that hosted complex chemical processes, including some that engendered significant diversity among metal+sulfide alterations.
Cellular cross talk, inflammatory signals, and enhanced microvascular permeability
Authors: Breslin Jerome W.
Published: March 2017

Microvascular leakage remains a significant clinical problem for which there is no specific therapeutic available. This Special Topics issue of the journal Microcirculation features reviews pertaining to the cellular and molecular mechanisms that control the integrity of the microvascular barrier. (Meegan et al., Microcirculation, 2017) summarize recent research findings about how neutrophil extracellular traps and how these can cause injury to the microvascular barrier.( Zhang et al. Microcirculation, 2017) highlight the microvascular response to advanced glycation end‐products that are formed as part of the pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus. These ongoing investigations are helping to clarify the mechanisms by which endothelial cells receive information and integrate it to generate cellular responses that fine‐tune barrier function. Better understanding of these mechanisms is needed for the rational development of therapeutic strategies to reduce excessive microvascular leakage.
Role of the Sln1‐phosphorelay pathway in the response to hyperosmotic stress in the yeast Kluyveromyces lactis
Authors: Rodríguez‐González Miriam , Kawasaki Laura , Velázquez‐Zavala Nancy , Domínguez‐Martín Eunice , Trejo‐Medecigo Abraham , Martagón Natalia , Espinoza‐Simón Emilio , Vázquez‐Ibarra Araceli , Ongay‐Larios Laura , Georgellis Dimitris , de Nadal Eulàlia , Posas Francesc , Coria Roberto
Published: March 2017

The Kluyveromyces lactis SLN1 phosphorelay system includes the osmosensor histidine kinase Sln1, the phosphotransfer protein Ypd1 and the response regulator Ssk1. Here we show that K. lactis has a functional phosphorelay system. In vitro assays, using a heterologous histidine kinase, show that the phosphate group is accepted by KlYpd1 and transferred to KlSsk1. Upon hyperosmotic stress the phosphorelay is inactivated, KlYpd1 is dephosphorylated in a KlSln1 dependent manner, and only the version of KlSsk1 that lacks the phosphate group interacts with the MAPKKK KlSsk2. Interestingly, inactivation of the KlPtp2 phosphatase in a ΔKlsln1 mutant did not lead to KlHog1 constitutive phosphorylation. KlHog1 can replace ScHog1p and activate the hyperosmotic response in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and when ScSln1 is inactivated, KlHog1 becomes phosphorylated and induces cell lethality. All these observations indicate that the phosphorelay negatively regulates KlHog1. Nevertheless, in the absence of KlSln1 or KlYpd1, no constitutive phosphorylation is detected and cells are viable, suggesting that a strong negative feedback that is independent of KlPtp2 operates in K. lactis. Compared with S. cerevisiae, K. lactis has only a moderate accumulation of glycerol and fails to produce trehalose under hyperosmotic stress, indicating that regulation of osmolyte production is different in K. lactis.
The effect of stereotypes and prejudices regarding gender roles on the relation between nurses and “Muslim fathers” in health institutions within the Community of Madrid (Spain)
Authors: González‐Pascual Juan Luis , Esteban‐Gonzalo Laura , Rodríguez‐García Marta , Gómez‐Cantarino Sagrario , Moreno‐Preciado Manuel
Published: March 2017

Modern Western societies are characterized by a considerable cultural and ethnic diversity whereby different groups and minorities live side by side. However, not all people are viewed in the same light by the autochthonous population. This is particularly true in the case of Muslim immigrants, who are often prone to negative stereotyping and prejudice. This has become increasingly apparent since the 2001 terrorist attacks in New York and the subsequent attacks in various Western countries. This study seeks to analyze the relation between female nurses and those labeled by nurses as “Muslim fathers,” as part of a research project on the care of immigrant children in Madrid (Spain). The findings promote reflection on the effects of nurses’ stereotypes and prejudices regarding the gender roles of “Muslim fathers” and the relations between these groups. These prejudices can lead to situations of cultural imposition and/or discrimination. Self‐reflection regarding stereotypes and prejudices is necessary in order to provide culturally competent care. The anthropobiological approach by Marie Françoise Collière may be useful for extending this type of care universally, not only to immigrant groups, as everyone, including nurses, patients, and family members, belong to part of a specific sociocultural context.
Rome III functional dyspepsia symptoms classification: Severity vs frequency
Authors: Carbone F. , Holvoet L. , Vanuytsel T. , Tack J.
Published: March 2017

Background

The Rome III criteria subdivide functional dyspepsia (FD) in the epigastric pain syndrome (EPS) and the postprandial distress syndrome (PDS) based on the frequency of the symptoms to optimize the diagnostic and therapeutic approach. However, it is unclear to which extent the frequency of the symptoms is related to their severity. Our aim was to explore the frequency and severity of dyspeptic symptoms and their relationship in FD patients.

Methods

Functional dyspepsia patients fulfilling the Rome III diagnostic completed a questionnaire that evaluated the frequency and severity of FD symptoms. The concordance between the severity and frequency categories was analyzed by means of spearman correlation and the concordance correlation coefficient (ρc).

Key Results

In the entire patient cohort (n=421), the classification of symptoms severity and frequency showed good concordance for all symptoms. In the EPS subgroup (n=….), the symptom severity and frequency score of epigastric pain showed a poor correlation (r=.28; ρc=0.07). The PDS subgroup (n=…) showed a good correlation for most of the symptoms. Due to its limited occurrence in this group, the correlation of the severity and frequency scores for epigastric pain is of little relevance (r=.79; ρc=0.58). The overlap EPS‐PDS group showed good correlation for most of the symptoms, except for epigastric pain (pain r=.24; ρc=0.09).

Conclusions & Inferences

We conclude that the information given by the assessment of frequency and severity of PDS symptoms is comparable and hence one of the scores sufficiently identifies symptom pattern in PDS patients. In EPS patients, both the symptom frequency and severity should be taken into account as two separate entities.
Building a better foundation: improving root‐trait measurements to understand and model plant and ecosystem processes
Authors: McCormack M. Luke , Guo Dali , Iversen Colleen M. , Chen Weile , Eissenstat David M. , Fernandez Christopher W. , Li Le , Ma Chengen , Ma Zeqing , Poorter Hendrik , Reich Peter B. , Zadworny Marcin , Zanne Amy
Published: March 2017

Trait‐based approaches provide a useful framework to investigate plant strategies for resource acquisition, growth, and competition, as well as plant impacts on ecosystem processes. Despite significant progress capturing trait variation within and among stems and leaves, identification of trait syndromes within fine‐root systems and between fine roots and other plant organs is limited. Here we discuss three underappreciated areas where focused measurements of fine‐root traits can make significant contributions to ecosystem science. These include assessment of spatiotemporal variation in fine‐root traits, integration of mycorrhizal fungi into fine‐root‐trait frameworks, and the need for improved scaling of traits measured on individual roots to ecosystem‐level processes. Progress in each of these areas is providing opportunities to revisit how below‐ground processes are represented in terrestrial biosphere models. Targeted measurements of fine‐root traits with clear linkages to ecosystem processes and plant responses to environmental change are strongly needed to reduce empirical and model uncertainties. Further identifying how and when suites of root and whole‐plant traits are coordinated or decoupled will ultimately provide a powerful tool for modeling plant form and function at local and global scales.
Both maternally and paternally imprinted genes regulate seed development in rice
Authors: Yuan Jingya , Chen Sushu , Jiao Wu , Wang Longfei , Wang Limei , Ye Wenxue , Lu Jie , Hong Delin , You Siliang , Cheng Zhukuan , Yang Dong‐Lei , Chen Z. Jeffrey
Published: March 2017

Genetic imprinting refers to the unequal expression of paternal and maternal alleles of a gene in sexually reproducing organisms, including mammals and flowering plants. Although many imprinted genes have been identified in plants, the functions of these imprinted genes have remained largely uninvestigated.

We report genome‐wide analysis of gene expression, DNA methylation and small RNAs in the rice endosperm and functional tests of five imprinted genes during seed development using Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/CRISPR‐associated gene9 (CRISPR/Cas9) gene editing technology.

In the rice endosperm, we identified 162 maternally expressed genes (MEGs) and 95 paternally expressed genes (PEGs), which were associated with miniature inverted‐repeat transposable elements, imprinted differentially methylated loci and some 21–22 small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). Remarkably, one‐third of MEGs and nearly one‐half of PEGs were associated with grain yield quantitative trait loci. Most MEGs and some PEGs were expressed specifically in the endosperm. Disruption of two MEGs increased the amount of small starch granules and reduced grain and embryo size, whereas mutation of three PEGs reduced starch content and seed fertility.

Our data indicate that both MEGs and PEGs in rice regulate nutrient metabolism and endosperm development, which optimize seed development and offspring fitness to facilitate parental–offspring coadaptation. These imprinted genes and mechanisms could be used to improve the grain yield of rice and other cereal crops.
ERECTA signaling controls Arabidopsis inflorescence architecture through chromatin‐mediated activation of PRE1 expression
Authors: Cai Hanyang , Zhao Lihua , Wang Lulu , Zhang Man , Su Zhenxia , Cheng Yan , Zhao Heming , Qin Yuan
Published: March 2017

Flowering plants display a remarkable diversity in inflorescence architecture, and pedicel length is one of the key contributors to this diversity. In Arabidopsis thaliana, the receptor‐like kinase ERECTA (ER) mediated signaling pathway plays important roles in regulating inflorescence architecture by promoting cell proliferation. However, the regulating mechanism remains elusive in the pedicel.

Genetic interactions between ERECTA signaling and the chromatin remodeling complex SWR1 in the control of inflorescence architecture were studied. Comparative transcriptome analysis was applied to identify downstream components. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and nucleosome occupancy was further investigated.

The results indicated that the chromatin remodeler SWR1 coordinates with ERECTA signaling in regulating inflorescence architecture by activating the expression of PRE1 family genes and promoting pedicel elongation. It was found that SWR1 is required for the incorporation of the H2A.Z histone variant into nucleosomes of the whole PRE1 gene family and the ERECTA controlled expression of PRE1 gene family through regulating nucleosome dynamics.

We propose that utilization of a chromatin remodeling complex to regulate gene expression is a common theme in developmental control across kingdoms. These findings shed light on the mechanisms through which chromatin remodelers orchestrate complex transcriptional regulation of gene expression in coordination with a developmental cue.
Alpha‐lipoic acid (ALA) as a supplementation for weight loss: results from a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Kucukgoncu S. , Zhou E. , Lucas K.B. , Tek C.
Published: March 2017

Objectives

Obesity is associated with significant morbidity and mortality rates. Even modest weight loss may be associated with health benefits. Alpha‐lipoic acid (ALA) is a naturally occurring antioxidant. Studies have suggested anti‐obesity properties of ALA; however, results are inconsistent. The purpose of this study is to conduct a meta‐analysis of the effect of ALA on weight and body mass index (BMI).

Methods

A comprehensive, systematic literature search identified 10 articles on randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled studies involving ALA. We conducted a meta‐analysis of mean weight and BMI change differences between ALA and placebo treatment groups.

Results

Alpha‐lipoic acid treatment coincided with a statistically significant 1.27 kg (confidence interval = 0.25 to 2.29) greater mean weight loss compared with the placebo group. A significant overall mean BMI difference of −0.43 kg/ m2 (confidence interval = −0.82 to −0.03) was found between the ALA and placebo groups. Meta‐regression analysis showed no significance in ALA dose on BMI and weight changes. Study duration significantly affected BMI change, but not weight change.

Conclusions

Alpha‐lipoic acid treatment showed small, yet significant short‐term weight loss compared with placebo. Further research is needed to examine the effect of different doses and the long‐term benefits of ALA on weight management.
How well does a part represent the whole? A comparison of cranidial shape evolution with exoskeletal character evolution in the trilobite family Pterocephaliidae
Authors: Hopkins Melanie J.
Published: March 2017

For taphonomic and practical reasons, our understanding of morphological evolution within and among species is based primarily on measurements taken from one or a few morphological traits. However, patterns can be highly dependent on trait choice, making it difficult to draw conclusions about evolution of species or clades as a whole. In this paper, I test whether patterns of evolutionary change in the shape of a part are coincident with patterns of evolutionary change based on a more comprehensive description of the organism. The former is based on geometric morphometrics of the trilobite cranidium and the latter on discrete character data describing the exoskeleton, collected from species belonging to the Cambrian family Pterocephaliidae. Using these two datasets, I compare the amount of change occurring along phylogenetic branches, as well as changes in morphospace occupation and changes in different measures of disparity. Unlike previous studies, I apply as similar a data treatment as possible to each data set in order to facilitate the comparison and interpretation of discrepancies. Results suggest that cranidial shape is a robust proxy for species‐level disparity and rates of evolution in this family of trilobites. This indicates that studies that have relied on data collected from the cranidium may be representative of the patterns that would be detected if more comprehensive description of the specimens had been available.
Characterization of maize male sterile 2 mutant by phenotypic and RNA sequencing analyses
Authors: Kang Dan , Wang Cuiyun , Xu Qilong , Wang Guoying , Liu Yunjun
Published: March 2017

Male sterility plays an important role in the hybrid seed production. Elucidation of the mechanism of male sterility will provide useful information for the usage of male sterility. In this study, we performed detailed phenotypic analysis of ms2 mutant, and the results showed that ms2 anthers are defects in synthesis and transportation of lipophilic molecules. To investigate the defects of transcriptome of ms2 anthers, 1.5, 2.5 and 3.5 mm anthers were sampled, respectively. Among the 23 037 expressed transcripts at 1.5 mm stage, only 15 genes were differentially expressed between fertile siblings and ms2 mutant. Compared to the fewer detected differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at 1.5 mm stage, 950 DEGs and 2212 DEGs between the fertile siblings and ms2 anthers were detected at 2.5 mm and 3.5 mm stages. These differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were mainly enriched in the secondary metabolism and lipid metabolism pathways. A series of genes related to the long‐chain fatty acids metabolism process were changed in ms2 mutant compared with the fertile siblings. The results in this study provide useful information on the mechanism of male sterility in ms2 mutant.
Factors affecting prolonged length of stay in psychiatric patients in Japan: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Shinjo Daisuke , Tachimori Hisateru , Sakurai Keiko , Ohnuma Tetsu , Fujimori Kenji , Fushimi Kiyohide
Published: March 2017

Aim

Hospital length of stay (LOS) is one of the stratified measures of health‐care efficiency and is commonly used to assess performance of psychiatric care. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for prolonged LOS of psychiatric patients.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed adult psychiatric patients (ICD‐10; F00–F99) between April 2012 and March 2014 in the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database. We examined factors affecting prolonged LOS using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Subgroup analyses of the logistic regression were undertaken according to two diagnostic groups (F20–F29 and F30–F39).

Results

A total of 34 326 patients admitted to and discharged from psychiatric beds were included. Older age, lower Global Assessment of Functioning score, involuntary commitment, several psychiatric services, certain other patient factors, academic hospitals, public hospitals, and higher density of psychiatric beds were significantly associated with prolonged LOS. Hospital patient volume was significantly associated with shorter LOS. In the subgroup analyses, most of these factors were consistent although some were not associated with prolonged LOS.

Conclusion

Not only clinical factors but also institutional characteristics were associated with prolonged LOS. Our study provided useful information for improvement in psychiatric services and indicated the need to consider the division of roles between healthcare/welfare institutions and psychiatric‐related resource allocation. Interventions should be considered for achieving shorter LOS for psychiatric patients.
Geographical variation and the role of climate in leaf traits of a relict tree species across its distribution in China
Authors: Meng H. , Wei X. , Franklin S. B. , Wu H. , Jiang M.
Published: March 2017

Intraspecific trait variation and trait–climate relationships are crucial for understanding a species’ response to climate change. However, these phenomena have rarely been studied for tree species. Euptelea pleiospermum is a relict tree species with a wide distribution in China that offers a novel opportunity to examine such relationships.

Here, we measured 13 leaf traits of E. pleiospermum in 20 sites across its natural distribution in China. We investigated the extent of trait variation at local and regional scales, and developed geographic and climate models to explain trait variation at the regional scale.

We documented intraspecific trait variation among leaf traits of E. pleiospermum at local and regional scales. Five traits exhibited relatively high trait variation: leaf area, leaf density and three leaf economic traits (leaf dry matter content, specific leaf area [SLA] and leaf phosphorus concentration). Significant trait–geography correlations were mediated by local climate. Most leaf trait variation could be explained (from 24% to 64%) by geographic or climate variables, except leaf width, leaf thickness, leaf dry matter content and leaf length–width ratio. Latitude and temperature were the strongest predictors of trait variation throughout the distribution of E. pleiospermum in China, and temperature explained more leaf trait variation than precipitation. In particular, we showed that leaves had longer petiole lengths, higher SLA and lower densities in northern E. pleiospermum populations. We suggest that northern E. pleiospermum populations are adapting to higher latitudinal environments via high growth rate (higher SLA) and low construction investment strategies (lower leaf densities), benefitting northern migration.

Overall, we demonstrate that intraspecific trait variation reflects E. pleiospermum response to the local environment. We call for consideration of intraspecific trait variation to examine specific climate response questions. In addition, provenance experiments using widely distributed species are needed to separate trait variation resulting from genetic differentiation and plastic responses to environmental change.
High morpho‐anatomical variability in Halimeda macroloba (Bryopsidales, Chlorophyta) in Thai waters
Authors: Pongparadon Supattra , Zuccarello Giuseppe C. , Prathep Anchana
Published: March 2017

Halimeda macroloba is a common widespread and morphologically variable species in the Indo‐Pacific Ocean. A series of morphometric data (16 morphological and 46 anatomical variables) and the chloroplast‐encoded tuf A gene were examined to explore the morphological and genetic variations within the species and to better determine species boundaries in H. macroloba in Thai waters. Moreover, the environmental conditions, which may affect morphological variations in H. macroloba, especially of Haplotype I were examined. Our results showed that H. macroloba has more morpho‐anatomical variability and broader species boundaries than previously thought in several characters: holdfast type, segment shape and size, node height with differences in pore size, the presence of two additional patterns of peripheral utricle as seen in surface view, and additional layers of utricles (up to seven layers). Additionally, two new variable characteristics have been reported for the first time, i.e. shape and margin of peripheral utricles. Water depth and light correlated with thallus morphology, larger thalli and segments with a greater number of utricle layers were associated with subtidal plants, while smaller thalli and segments were found in the intertidal or high light intensity areas. The high plasticity of this species may explain why in the Indo‐Pacific Ocean this species is common and dominant.
Polymorphism in 5′ untranslated region of heat‐shock protein 70 gene as marker of post‐partum anoestrus in Murrah buffaloes
Authors: Kumar R , Ghosh M , Kumar N , Balhara AK , Gupta M , Sharma RK , Singh I
Published: March 2017

Contents

The enormous production potential of buffaloes has never been accomplished due to various reproductive insufficiencies. Among them, post‐partum anoestrus, a multifactorial disorder, is predominant but any genetic association is yet to be established. This study focused to identify novel polymorphisms in heat‐shock protein 70 (HSP70) gene and its possible association with post‐partum anoestrus in Murrah buffaloes. A 579‐bp fragment from 5′ untranslated region of HSP70 gene was amplified by polymerase chain reaction from blood genomic DNA of 614 animals maintained under similar management conditions. In phase‐I experiment, custom sequencing and restriction enzyme (RE) digestion of the amplified fragment were performed in 40 buffaloes with similar post‐partum oestrous conditions over previous consecutive three or more gestations—20 animals each showing post‐partum anoestrus (>120 days after parturition) and normal cyclicity (<65 days after parturition). While in phase‐II experiment, herd screening by RE analysis was performed in remaining 574 animals. Four transversions at T‐75G, C+31G, T+38G and C+97A and three transition mutations at T‐153C, T+33C and A+44G positions were observed. Polymorphism at T+38G site revealed significant (p < .05) variation, where homozygous G was present only in post‐partum anoestrous animals while nucleotide T was present randomly in both groups of phase‐I animals whereas phase‐II experiments revealed homozygous G in 55 animals. Regression analysis in relation to average post‐partum interval against genotypic frequencies at T+38G also depicted significant association. HSP70 gene polymorphism at T+38G position can therefore be used as genetic marker for excluding probable post‐partum anoestrous buffaloes from herd for breeding programmes.
Effect of steroid hormones on the innate immune response induced by Staphylococcus aureus in the goat mammary gland
Authors: Kuwahara K , Yoshimura Y , Isobe N
Published: March 2017

Contents

The objective of this study was to compare the dynamics of innate immune components after intramammary infusion of Staphylococcus aureus (SA) under conditions of high oestrogen and high progesterone in goats. In one group (“E‐group”), controlled internal drug release (CIDR) devices were inserted intravaginally from days −11 to −4. Prostaglandin F2α was administered immediately after removal of the CIDR device at day −3, and then oestradiol benzoate (E) was injected intramuscularly once a day from days −2 to 3. Heat‐inactivated SA was then administered via intramammary infusion to the left udder at day 0, whilst only saline was infused to the right udder as a control. In a second group (“P‐group”), CIDR devices were inserted intravaginally from days −3 to 7 and SA was infused at day 0 in the same way as in the E‐group. The milk yield and the concentration of innate immune components (somatic cell count (SCC), lactoferrin (LF), S100A7 and goat ß‐defensin 1 (GBD‐1)) in the milk were measured. Milk yield decreased drastically in both SA and control udders in the E‐group, whereas the P‐group exhibited increased milk yield in both SA and control udders. SCC increased after SA infusion in both E‐ and P‐groups, although it was higher in the E‐group than in the P‐group. There was no significant change in LF concentration in the E‐group, but a decrease was observed in the P‐group. Concentrations of S100A and GBD‐1 were significantly increased after SA infusion in the E‐group but not in the P‐group. These results suggest that E enhances the innate immune response induced by SA in the goat mammary gland. This effect may be due to the reduction in milk yield and upregulation of innate immune components.
Natural Resource Revenues and Public Investment in Resource‐rich Economies in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Karimu Amin , Adu George , Marbuah George , Mensah Justice Tei , Amuakwa‐Mensah Franklin
Published: March 2017

The general policy prescription for resource‐rich countries is that, for sustainable consumption, a greater percentage of the windfall from resource rents should be channeled into accumulating foreign assets such as a sovereign public fund as done in Norway and other developed but resource‐rich countries. This might not be a correct policy prescription for resource‐rich sub‐Saharan African (SSA) countries, where public capital is very low to support the needed economic growth. In such countries, rents from resources serve as an opportunity to scale‐up the needed public capital. Using a panel data for the period 1990–2013, we find in line with the scaling‐up hypothesis that resource rents significantly increases public investment in SSA and that this tends to depend on the quality of political institutions. Moreover, we also find evidence of a positive effect of public investment on economic growth, which also depends on the level of resource rents.
Wealth Inequality in Sweden: What can we Learn from Capitalized Income Tax Data?
Authors: Lundberg Jacob , Waldenström Daniel
Published: March 2017

This paper presents new estimates of wealth inequality in Sweden during 2000–2012, linking wealth register data up to 2007 and individually capitalized wealth based on income and property tax registers for the period thereafter when a repeal of the wealth tax stopped the collection of individual wealth statistics. We find that wealth inequality increased after 2007 and that more unequal bank holdings and housing appear to be important drivers. We also evaluate the performance of the capitalization method by contrasting its estimates and their dispersion with observed stocks in register data up to 2007. The goodness‐of‐fit varies tremendously across assets and we conclude that although capitalized wealth estimates may well approximate overall inequality levels and trends, they are highly sensitive to assumptions and the quality of the underlying data sources.
Policy Failure and Policy Learning: Examining the Conditions of Learning after Disaster
Authors: O'Donovan Kristin
Published: March 2017

The policy learning literature indicates that governments can and do learn after a policy failure but not always. The purpose of this study is to examine the conditions under which policy failure leads to policy learning. It asks two questions. First, is policy failure associated with policy learning? Second, if policy is associated with policy learning, does the failure initiate different types of learning? Using the policy failure and learning literatures as an organizing framework, this paper analyzes three comparative cases of policy failure revealed by tornados in Greensburg, Kansas (2007); Joplin, Missouri (2011); and Moore, Oklahoma (2013). It finds that failure of the policy process in agenda setting is associated with instrumental policy learning. It also finds that there are two types of failure of decision making: failure to make a timely decision and failure to make any decision. The two types of decision‐making failure are associated with different types of policy learning. In addition, the contextual factors underpinning the link between policy failure and learning are prior experience with the policy problem and capacity to learn.
Exogenous and endogenous lipids of human hair
Authors: Coderch L. , Oliver M. A. , Martínez V. , Manich A. M. , Rubio L. , Martí M.
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The aim of this study was to characterize the external and internal lipids of Caucasian hair and their influence in different hair properties such as moisture content, hydrophobic character, and mechanical properties.

Methods

Lipid extraction and their analysis by thin layer chromatography with flame ionization detector were carried out. Lipid rearrangement and water sorption and desorption evaluation of these fibers with and without lipids will also be determined using different techniques such as differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis and dynamic vapor sorption, mainly to evaluate permeation changes of these hair fibers possibly related to the fluidity of the lipids extracted.

Results

Caucasian fibers were found to be well hydrated, and moisture diminution was observed mainly for the external lipid extracted fibers. Unexpectedly, the lipid extraction promoted an increase in the break tenacity of the Caucasian fibers. The hydrophobic character of the fiber surfaces indicates the marked hydrophobicity of all fibers. Delipidization promotes only a slight diminution of their hydrophobic properties.

Water uptake and desorption studies indicate an important water regain for Caucasian fibers. The external extracted hair fibers presented a diminution of maximum water regain, which surprisingly increases with the following internal lipid extraction. This can be due to a higher water desorption found only for external extracted fibers.

Conclusions

The relationship between fluidity of lipids extracted and hair fiber water diffusion were established. Extraction of internal lipids of Caucasian fibers, which have a higher unsaturated lipid content than external lipids of the same hair fiber, leads to a lower water permeability of the fiber. On the capillar formulations should be considered the importance of lipid fluidity to modify the permeability of the fiber.