bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidative and Microbial Stability of Pomegranate Peel Extracts and Bagasse Supplemented Cookies
Authors: Ismail Tariq , Akhtar Saeed , Riaz Muhammad , Hameed Aneela , Afzal Khurram , Sattar Sheikh Ahsan
Published: November 2016

This study aimed at exploring pomegranate peel (PoP) for its potential as an ingredient of choice in baked products primarily to stabilize lipids and inhibit microbiological spoilage. Pomegranate peel extracts (PoPx) and pomegranate peel bagasse (Pbg) were supplemented to wheat flour cookies at 0.25–1.0% and 1.5–7.5%, respectively. Cookies supplemented with 7.5% Pbg reduced caloric contents and significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced dietary fiber and inorganic residues of the product. Positive correlation was observed for cookies phenolics contents with 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power assay. Total phenolics recovery from Pbg and PoPx was shown to range from 78.35 to 315.7 mg GAE/100g), respectively. PoPx supplemented cookies, holding significant antioxidant properties, inhibited thiobarbituric acid number by 67% and reduced growth of aerobic counts (2.04–1.30 log10 cfu/g) and yeasts/molds (1.70–1.05 log10 cfu/g). Sensory evaluation of Pbg supplemented cookies indicated relatively lower score for texture and crispiness while other treatment combinations were ranked acceptable at 9‐point hedonic scale for all sensory parameters.

Practical Applications

Synthetic antioxidants and antimicrobials being injudiciously exploited as food preservatives are hampering quality of food and life. Programmed replacement of preservative cum intoxicating agents with relatively least to nontoxic natural phytochemicals is referred to be the sustainable and safe approach in food preservation. On account of its tremendous food quality enhancement features, PoP vide its ethnobotanical extracts deliver significant antioxidant, antimicrobial and nutraceuticals properties. As witnessed in current study, PoPx supplementation in bakery products has a prospective role in inhibiting lipid oxidation and microbiological spoilage and, hence can be considered as viable substitute of synthetic preservatives. Nutritional enhancement features of peel bagasse further endeavors underutilized fruit waste as ingredient of choice in formulating virtually balanced therapeutic formulation against certain critical ailments.
Nurse and Medical Provider Perspectives on Antibiotic Stewardship in Nursing Homes
Authors: Scales Kezia , Zimmerman Sheryl , Reed David , Beeber Anna Song , Kistler Christine E. , Preisser John S. , Weiner Bryan J. , Ward Kimberly , Fann Amy , Sloane Philip D.
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To examine perspectives on antibiotic use and antibiotic stewardship of nurses and medical providers in nursing homes (NHs).

Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Setting

NHs in North Carolina (N = 31).

Participants

Nursing staff (n = 182) and medical providers (n = 50).

Measurements

Respondents completed a self‐administered questionnaire about their perspectives on antibiotic use in their NH, the influence of residents and families on antibiotic prescribing decisions, and readiness to improve antibiotic stewardship. Open‐ended questions on barriers to antibiotic stewardship were also asked. Linear mixed modeling was used to analyze differences between respondent groups and to test for associations with individual and organizational characteristics.

Results

All respondents supported reducing antibiotic use, although medical providers’ support was significantly stronger (P = .005). When asked about their perception of residents’ and family members’ preference for antibiotic use in the case of suspected infection and the influence of that preference on antibiotic‐prescribing decisions, respondents indicated that residents and families favor antibiotic use and influence prescribing decisions. Nurses reported a stronger perception than medical providers that families prefer antibiotics (P = .04) and influence prescribing decisions (P = .02). All respondents reported commitment and efficacy to change practices (mean 4.0–4.1 for nurses and 3.6–3.9 for medical providers on a 5‐point scale). Four significant associations related to organizational and individual characteristics were found: directors of nursing and specialist nurses reported greater self‐efficacy for changing practice than other nurses (P = .003), medical providers with a subspecialty (e.g., geriatrics) reported greater self‐efficacy (P = .007) and commitment to change (P = .001) than those without a subspecialty, and medical providers specializing in hospice and palliative care rated family influence (P = .006) higher than those with other subspecialties.

Conclusion

Nursing staff and medical providers share a commitment to reducing unnecessary antibiotic use. Antibiotic stewardship interventions should foster cooperation and build competency to implement alternative management approaches and to educate residents and families. Nurse leaders and medical providers with long‐term care training may be especially effective champions for antibiotic stewardship.
Reliability and Validity of a Simplified Comprehensive Assessment Tool for Feeding Support: Kuchi‐Kara Taberu Index
Authors: Maeda Keisuke , Shamoto Hiroshi , Wakabayashi Hidetaka , Enomoto Junko , Takeichi Mika , Koyama Tamami
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To verify the reliability and validity and develop an English version of an instrument (Kuchi‐Kara Taberu Index (KT Index)) to comprehensively assess and intervene in problems with eating and swallowing.

Design

Multicenter cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Nursing homes.

Participants

Individuals aged 65 and older (mean age 88.3 ± 6.8; 80.0% female) who had lived in a nursing home for longer than 1 month (N = 115).

Measurements

The KT index consisted of 13 items: desire to eat, overall condition, respiratory condition, oral condition, cognitive function while eating, oral preparatory and propulsive phases, dysphagia severity, position and endurance while eating, eating, daily life, food intake level, food modification, and nutrition. Weighted kappa coefficients, Cronbach alpha, and Spearman rank correlation coefficients were determined.

Results

Weighted kappa values in the inter‐ and intrarater reliability tests ranged from 0.54 to 0.96 and 0.68 to 0.98, respectively. Cronbach alpha was 0.892. Spearman rank correlation coefficients (r) between the total KT index and external criteria were determined (Functional Oral Intake Scale, r = 0.790; Barthel Index, r = 0.830; Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form, r = 0.582; Cognitive Performance Scale, r = −0.673; all P < .001). Similar correlations were observed when some items related to each external criterion were removed from the total KT index. Translation‐retranslation procedures were conducted to develop an English version of the KT index.

Conclusion

The study provided evidence of the reliability and validity of the KT index and developed an English version. Future studies regarding validation of health‐related quality of life indices and their effect on clinical courses of eating and swallowing conditions are needed.
Nursing Home Use After Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator Implantation in Older Adults: Results from the National Cardiovascular Data Registry
Authors: Kramer Daniel B. , Reynolds Matthew R. , Normand Sharon‐Lise , Parzynski Craig S. , Spertus John A. , Mor Vincent , Mitchell Susan L.
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To evaluate the incidence and characteristics of nursing home (NH) use after implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) implantation.

Design

Cohort study.

Setting

Medicare beneficiaries in the National Cardiovascular Data Registry—ICD Registry.

Participants

Individuals aged 65 and older receiving ICDs between January 1, 2006, and March 31, 2010 (N = 192,483).

Measurements

Proportion of ICD recipients discharged to NHs directly after device placement, cumulative incidence of long‐term NH admission, and factors associated with immediate discharge to a NH and time to long‐term NH admission.

Results

Over 4 years, 40.6% of the cohort died, and 35,939 (18.7%) experienced at least one NH admission, including 4.0% directly discharged to a NH after ICD implantation and 2.8% admitted to long‐term NH care during follow‐up. The cumulative incidence of long‐term NH admission, accounting for the competing risk of death, was 1.7% at 1 year, 3.8% at 3 years, and 4.6% at 4 years; 20.1% of individuals admitted to a NH died there. Factors most strongly associated with direct NH discharge and time to long‐term NH care were older age (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.09, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.01–2.17 per 10‐year increment; adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.80–1.97, respectively), dementia (AOR = 2.60, 95% CI = 2.25–3.01; AHR = 2.50, 95% CI = 2.14–2.93, respectively), and Medicare Part A claim for NH stay in prior 6 months (AOR = 3.96, 95% CI = 3.70–4.25; AHR = 2.88, 95% CI = 2.65–3.14, respectively).

Conclusion

Nearly one in five individuals are admitted to NHs over a median of 1.6 years of follow‐up after ICD implantation. Understanding these outcomes may help inform the clinical care of these individuals.
Osteoporosis Treatment Efficacy for Men: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Nayak Smita , Greenspan Susan L.
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy of treatment options to reduce osteoporotic fracture risk in men.

Design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Setting

Randomized clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy of a treatment for osteoporosis or low bone mineral density for adult men and reported fracture outcomes.

Participants

Men.

Measurements

PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases were searched for relevant studies. Information was extracted from included studies on participant sociodemographic characteristics, number of male participants, treatment evaluated, comparator for evaluated treatment, study duration, and fracture outcomes. Risk of bias of individual studies was assessed using measures recommended by the Cochrane Collaboration.

Results

Twenty‐four articles reporting results for 22 studies (including 4,868 male participants) met strict inclusion criteria. Fixed‐effects meta‐analyses using the Mantel‐Haenszel method demonstrated significantly lower risk of vertebral fractures with alendronate (relative risk (RR) = 0.328, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.155–0.692) and risedronate (RR = 0.428, 95% CI = 0.245–0.746) but not with calcitonin (RR = 0.272, 95% CI = 0.046–1.608) or denosumab (RR = 0.256, 95% CI = 0.029–2.238) than in controls. For bisphosphonates as a treatment category, meta‐analyses demonstrated significantly lower risk of vertebral fractures (RR = 0.368, 95% CI = 0.252–0.537) and nonvertebral fractures (RR = 0.604, 95% CI = 0.404–0.904) than in controls. The meta‐analysis finding that bisphosphonates significantly reduce nonvertebral fracture risk was not robust to sensitivity analysis.

Conclusion

Bisphosphonates reduce the risk of vertebral and possibly nonvertebral fractures for men with osteoporosis. Further studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy of bisphosphonates for reducing nonvertebral fracture risk and the efficacy of nonbisphosphonates for reducing vertebral and nonvertebral fracture risk in men with osteoporosis.
Applying the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial Results to Older Adults
Authors: Supiano Mark A. , Williamson Jeff D.
Published: November 2016

The Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT; ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01206062) was stopped early because of significantly lower risk of cardiovascular disease in participants randomized to a systolic blood pressure target of 120 mmHg (intensive) than in those randomized to 140 mmHg (standard). The cardiovascular outcome benefit was also identified in subjects aged 75 and older assigned to the intensive arm—34% lower than in the standard arm—in addition to 33% lower all‐cause mortality at 3.14 years of follow‐up. These beneficial outcomes held in older participants characterized as frail or with impaired gait speed. This article addresses several questions that need to be considered in applying the SPRINT results to the clinical care of older adults: Why are the SPRINT results discordant from those of epidemiological studies? Do the SPRINT findings generalize to the frail, older adults that I care for? Were there more adverse events in the intensive treatment group? What about cognitive and kidney outcomes? What are future considerations, and how low should we go?
A2A‐D2 receptor–receptor interaction modulates gliotransmitter release from striatal astrocyte processes
Authors: Cervetto Chiara , Venturini Arianna , Passalacqua Mario , Guidolin Diego , Genedani Susanna , Fuxe Kjell , Borroto‐Esquela Dasiel O. , Cortelli Pietro , Woods Amina , Maura Guido , Marcoli Manuela , Agnati Luigi F.
Published: November 2016

Evidence for striatal A2A‐D2 heterodimers has led to a new perspective on molecular mechanisms involved in schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease. Despite the increasing recognition of astrocytes’ participation in neuropsychiatric disease vulnerability, involvement of striatal astrocytes in A2A and D2 receptor signal transmission has never been explored. Here, we investigated the presence of D2 and A2A receptors in isolated astrocyte processes prepared from adult rat striatum by confocal imaging; the effects of receptor activation were measured on the 4‐aminopyridine‐evoked release of glutamate from the processes. Confocal analysis showed that A2A and D2 receptors were co‐expressed on the same astrocyte processes. Evidence for A2A‐D2 receptor–receptor interactions was obtained by measuring the release of the gliotransmitter glutamate: D2 receptors inhibited the glutamate release, while activation of A2A receptors, per se ineffective, abolished the effect of D2 receptor activation. The synthetic D2 peptide VLRRRRKRVN corresponding to the receptor region involved in electrostatic interaction underlying A2A‐D2 heteromerization abolished the ability of the A2A receptor to antagonize the D2 receptor‐mediated effect. Together, the findings are consistent with heteromerization of native striatal astrocytic A2A‐D2 receptors that via allosteric receptor–receptor interactions could play a role in the control of striatal glutamatergic transmission. These new findings suggest possible new pathogenic mechanisms and/or therapeutic approaches to neuropsychiatric disorders.

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The synaptic vesicle protein SV31 assembles into a dimer and transports Zn2+
Authors: Waberer Lisa , Henrich Erik , Peetz Oliver , Morgner Nina , Dötsch Volker , Bernhard Frank , Volknandt Walter
Published: November 2016

The integral synaptic vesicle protein SV31 has been shown to bind divalent cations. Here, we demonstrate that SV31 protein synthesized within a cell‐free system binds Zn2+ and to a lower extent Ni2+ and Cu2+ ions. Expression with Zn2+ stabilized the protein and increased solubility. SV31 was preferentially monomeric in detergent and revealed specific binding of Zn2+. When co‐translationally inserted into defined nanodisc bilayers, SV31 assembled into dimeric complexes, resulting in increased binding of Zn2+. Putative Zn2+‐binding motifs within SV31 comprise aspartic acid and histidine residues. Site‐directed mutagenesis of two conserved aspartic acid residues leads to a potent decrease in Zn2+ binding but did not affect dimerization. Chemical modification of histidine residues abolished some of the Zn2+‐binding capacity. We demonstrate proton‐dependent transport of Zn2+ as by accumulation of fluorescent FluoZin‐1 inside of SV31‐containing proteoliposomes. Transport activity has a Km value of 44.3 μM and required external Zn2+ and internal acidic pH. Our results demonstrate that the synaptic vesicle‐integral protein SV31 functions as a proton‐dependent Zn2+ transporter. SV31 may attribute specific and yet undiscovered functions to subsets of synapses.

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Multiple pathways for elevating extracellular adenosine in the rat hippocampal CA1 region characterized by adenosine sensor cells
Authors: Yamashiro Kunihiko , Fujii Yuki , Maekawa Shohei , Morita Mitsuhiro
Published: November 2016

Extracellular adenosine in the brain, which modulates various physiological and pathological processes, fluctuates in a complicated manner that reflects the circadian cycle, neuronal activity, metabolism, and disease states. The dynamics of extracellular adenosine in the brain are not fully understood, largely because of the lack of simple and reliable methods of measuring time‐dependent changes in tissue adenosine distribution. This study describes the development of a biosensor, designated an adenosine sensor cell, expressing adenosine A1 receptor, and a genetically modified G protein. This biosensor was used to characterize extracellular adenosine elevation in brain tissue by measuring intracellular calcium elevation in response to adenosine. Placement of adenosine sensor cells below hippocampal slices successfully detected adenosine releases from these slices in response to neuronal activity and astrocyte swelling by conventional calcium imaging. Pharmacological analyses indicated that high‐frequency electrical stimulation‐induced post‐synaptic adenosine release in a manner dependent on L‐type calcium channels and calcium‐induced calcium release. Adenosine release following treatments that cause astrocyte swelling is independent of calcium channels, but dependent on aquaporin 4, an astrocyte‐specific water channel subtype. The ability of ectonucleotidase inhibitors to inhibit adenosine release following astrocyte swelling, but not electrical stimulation, suggests that the former reflects astrocytic ATP release and subsequent enzymatic breakdown, whereas the latter reflects direct adenosine release from neurons. These results suggest that distinct mechanisms are responsible for extracellular adenosine elevations by neurons and astrocytes, allowing exquisite regulation of extracellular adenosine in the brain.

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Evaluation of the effects of acne vulgaris on quality of life in Turkey by using TAQLI
Authors: Gokalp Hilal , Bulur Isil , Kaya Erdoğan Hilal , Karapınar Tekden , Bilgin Muzaffer
Published: November 2016

Background

Acne vulgaris (AV) is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease that may cause various psychiatric and/or psychological problems.

Objective

In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of AV on the quality of life in the Turkish population using the Turkish Acne Quality of Life Index (TAQLI).

Methods

A total of 960 patients with AV who attended the dermatology department were included in the study. Acne severity was determined using the global acne classification system. TAQLI was used to evaluate the effect of acne on quality of life.

Results

The 960 patients consisted of 673 (70.1%) females and 287 (29.9%) males. There were 536 (55.8%) patients under the age of 20, 386 (40.2%) aged 20–30, and 38 (4.0%) over 30. Acne duration varied between 1 and 20 years, and the mean duration was 2.95 ± 2.53 years. The mean TAQLI value of all patients was 20.8 ± 9.5. The mean TAQLI value was statistically significantly higher in female patients, in patients with an acne duration of more than 2 years, and in those with very severe acne. However, no statistically significant difference was found between the age groups.

Conclusion

We observed that the quality of life in patients with AV was affected, and this effect was more significant in female patients, patients with severe acne and longer acne duration. We believe that the psychiatric/psychological effects should be followed up closely in this group of patients.
Eosinophilic esophagitis: unclear roles of IgE and eosinophils
Authors: Blanchard C. , Simon D. , Schoepfer A. , Straumann A. , Simon H.‐U.
Published: November 2016

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the oesophagus. Recognized as a distinct entity only two decades ago, the emergence of the disease along with the availability of new technologies has rapidly opened new research avenues and outlined the main features of the pathogenesis of EoE. Yet, each advance in our understanding of the disease has raised new questions about the previous consensus. Currently, new subsets of the disease challenge our diagnostic criteria. For instance, it was believed that EoE did not respond to proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy; however, it has now been shown that a substantial proportion of EoE patients indeed respond to PPIs. In addition, a new subset of patients not even presenting eosinophil infiltrates in the oesophagus has also been described. Moreover, approaches for better understanding the heritability of the disease bring into question the dogma of predominant genetic involvement. Furthermore, the specificity and sensitivity of allergy testing for targeted food avoidance is highly controversial, and the production of specific antibodies in EoE now includes IgG4 in addition to IgE. In conclusion, EoE is perceived as ‘a moving target’ and the aim of this review was to summarize the current understanding of EoE pathogenesis.
A risk factor‐based model for upper aerodigestive tract cancers in India: predicting and validating the receiver operating characteristic curve
Authors: Gupta Bhawna , Kumar Narinder , Johnson Newell W.
Published: November 2016

Background

A study was conducted to develop and validate a screening model using risk scores to identify individuals at high risk for developing upper aerodigestive tract (UADT) cancers in an Indian population.

Methods

A hospital‐based case–control study (n = 480) was conducted in Pune, India. We assessed risk factors for UADT cancers by administering a questionnaire through face‐to‐face interviews. We developed a risk factor model based on the statistically significant risk factors in multiple logistic regression. A total, single risk score was calculated per individual based on the adjusted odds ratio for each of their risk factors. Standard receiver operator characteristic curve was plotted for the total score and the presence of UADT cancers. The stratification ability of the model was determined using the c‐statistic. The optimal criterion value was determined at the point on curve at which the Youden's index was maximal. Confidence intervals were calculated by bootstrapping.

Results

Total risk score for each individual ranged from 0 to 26. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (95.8; P < 0.001) suggests strong predictive ability. A risk score criterion value of ≤10 produced optimal sensitivity (93.5%), specificity (71.1%), false‐positive rate (28.8%), false‐negative rate (6.4%), positive predictive value (74.8%), and negative predictive value (96.6%).

Conclusion

This risk factor‐based model has the potential of satisfactorily screening and detection of UADT cancers at its early stage in a high‐risk population like India. The identified at‐risk individuals can then be targeted for clinical examination and for focused preventive/treatment measures at the hospital.
Coercion and Contract at the Margins: Deportable Labor and the Laws of Employment Termination Under US Capitalism (1942–2015)
Authors: Clark Gabrielle E.
Published: November 2016

In 1917, Congress created the status of temporary labor migrant. A new kind of restricted worker born from nineteenth-century free labor politics, employer and citizen worker demands under modern liberal capitalism, and state labor market regulation, temporary migrants have always had an employer-dependent legal status and been subject to deportation. Yet, since 1942, changing rights and legal processes have governed migrant employment termination across sectors. By drawing on employment cases from archival and unpublished files made available to me under FOIA, and court decisions, I compare the impact of laws of employment termination on deportable laborers beginning in 1942, when government agencies planned migration, and under privatized migration after 1964. From agriculture and war to today's service and knowledge economies, I demonstrate how employment rights have always shaped deportable workers' legal status. Yet, I also show how today's rights and legal processes, in contrast to the past, hardly mitigate employer control over migrants under contemporary capitalism.
Tadalafil Improves Symptoms, Erectile Function and Quality of Life in Patients with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Suggestive of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (KYU‐PRO Study)
Authors: TAKAHASHI Ryosuke , MIYAZATO Minoru , NISHII Hisae , SUMINO Yasuhiro , TAKAYAMA Kazuo , ONZUKA Masako , OSHIRO Takuma , SAITO Seiichi , FUJIMOTO Naohiro , MIMATA Hiromitsu , ETO Masatoshi
Published: November 2016

Objectives

Effect of tadalafil on lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), erectile function and quality of life (QoL) were prospectively evaluated in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) at multicenter.

Methods

Eligible men were ≥40 years who had no treatment with alpha‐blocker for BPH, with total International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) ≥8, IPSS‐QOL ≥2 and prostate volume ≥20 mL. Data were collected on age, body mass index (BMI), and prostate specific antigen (PSA). Patients were asked to complete a self‐reported questionnaire regarding the IPSS, Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS), International Index of Erectile Function 5 (IIEF5), and Medical Outcome Study 8‐Item Short‐Form Health Survey (SF‐8). These measures were assessed at baseline, 4‐, 8‐, 12‐week of tadalafil treatment. In addition, uroflowmetry was also performed at baseline, and 12‐week end point visit.

Results

Thirty five patients with mean age 67.3 years, mean BMI 23.6 kg/m2, mean prostate volume 36 mL, and mean PSA 3.4 ng/mL were enrolled. Treatment with tadalafil significantly improved IPSS total score, IPSS voiding subscore, IPSS storage subscore, OABSS and IPSS‐QoL score after 4 weeks and these improvements were maintained for 12‐week treatment period. IIEF5 score and general health in SF‐8 are significantly improved with the treatment of tadalafil. However, maximum flow rate and postvoiding residual volume were not significantly changed. There were not any serious adverse events.

Conclusions

These results indicate that tadalafil 5 mg once daily would be effective and well tolerated treatment in Japanese men with BPH‐LUTS.
Genetic and developmental basis for fin shape variation in African cichlid fishes
Authors: Navon Dina , Olearczyk Nathan , Albertson R. Craig
Published: November 2016

Adaptive radiations are often characterized by the rapid evolution of traits associated with divergent feeding modes. For example, the evolutionary history of African cichlids is marked by repeated and coordinated shifts in skull, trophic, fin and body shape. Here, we seek to explore the molecular basis for fin shape variation in Lake Malawi cichlids. We first described variation within an F2 mapping population derived by crossing two cichlid species with divergent morphologies including fin shape. We then used this population to genetically map loci that influence variation in this trait. We found that the genotype–phenotype map for fin shape is largely distinct from other morphological characters including body and craniofacial shape. These data suggest that key aspects of fin, body and jaw shape are genetically modular and that the coordinated evolution of these traits in cichlids is more likely due to common selective pressures than to pleiotropy or linkage. We next combined genetic mapping data with population‐level genome scans to identify wnt7aa and col1a1 as candidate genes underlying variation in the number of pectoral fin ray elements. Gene expression patterns across species with different fin morphologies and small molecule manipulation of the Wnt pathway during fin development further support the hypothesis that variation at these loci underlies divergence in fin shape between cichlid species. In all, our data provide additional insights into the genetic and molecular mechanisms associated with morphological divergence in this important adaptive radiation.
Wealth Distribution, Elasticity of Substitution and Piketty: An ‘Anti‐Dual’ Pasinetti Economy
Authors: Zamparelli Luca
Published: November 2016

This paper studies the dynamics of wealth distribution between workers and capitalists in a neoclassical growth model with differential saving rates. It shows that if capitalists are thriftier than workers and the factors elasticity of substitution is high enough to ensure endogenous growth, capitalists’ share of total wealth asymptotically tends to one. It is also proved that a tax on capital income shifts the long run distribution of wealth in workers’ favor, and that the capitalists’ share of total wealth is a decreasing function of the tax rate. The results of the paper are compared to Piketty's ‘fundamental laws’ of capitalism.
Insidious incrementalism: The silent failure of the microcirculation with increasing peripheral vascular disease risk
Authors: Lemaster Kent , Jackson Dwayne , Goldman Daniel , Frisbee Jefferson C.
Published: November 2016

This review summarizes material presented in “Adaptive Outcomes of Microvascular Networks to Obesity and Type II Diabetes/Insulin Resistance” on July 30, 2016, at the Joint Meeting of the American Physiological Society and the Physiological Society, in Dublin, Ireland. We discuss the poor predictive power of traditional markers of vascular dysfunction for functional outcomes of muscle fatigue‐resistance and active hyperemia within the setting of elevated peripheral vascular disease risk. Using the obese Zucker rat model of the metabolic syndrome, we describe how blood flow distribution at arteriolar bifurcations (γ) is altered with PVD risk reflecting increased spatial heterogeneity of distribution within networks. The ability of the microvasculature to compensate for increased heterogeneity is attenuated in OZR, creating a condition wherein the inability to match perfusion to local demand is entrenched and made more difficult to overcome. This appears to be an incremental process, as multiple models of increased PVD risk manifest incremental shifts to the spatial and temporal behavior of γ. These data suggest that γ, a superior predictor of functional outcomes for skeletal muscle, may represent a broadly applicable concept that can inform us about system behavior, with health and increased disease/disease risk, and with imposition of therapeutic regimens.
Extracellular vesicles at the cross‐line between basic science and clinical needs
Authors: Sasso Luana , Hosamuddin Huma , Emanueli Costanza
Published: November 2016

MiRNAs are small noncoding RNAs vital for protein regulation and gene expression. Since their discovery in the early nineties, many of their intracellular roles have been characterized. However, it is only recently that EVs loaded with miRNAs and other molecular types have started to be appreciated for their substantial involvement in cell‐to‐cell communication and signaling in physiological and pathological processes. EVs cell‐to‐cell signaling functions are complex and largely unknown, which still hampers the direct use of endogenous engineered EVs as therapeutics. However, ad hoc engineered synthetic EVs could represent new therapeutics. The potential of EV‐inspired delivery carriers has now attracted the interest of the pharmaceutical industry and has challenged drug delivery researchers with new questions. This review will focus on EVs and EV‐inspired drug delivery carriers, on their potential and on the challenges involved in the use of EV‐inspired drug delivery systems.
Evaluating the spore genome sizes of ferns and lycophytes: a flow cytometry approach
Authors: Kuo Li‐Yaung , Huang Yi‐Jia , Chang JenYu , Chiou Wen‐Liang , Huang Yao‐Moan
Published: November 2016

Ferns and lycophytes produce spores to initiate the gametophyte stage for sexual reproduction. Approximately 10% of these seedless vascular plants are apomictic, and produce genomic unreduced spores. Genome size comparisons between spores and leaves are a reliable, and potentially easier way to determine their reproductive mode compared to traditional approaches. However, estimation of the spore genome sizes of these plants has not been attempted.

We attempted to evaluate the spore genome sizes of ferns and lycophytes using flow cytometry, collected spores from selected species representing different spore physical properties and taxonomic groups, and sought to optimize bead‐vortexing conditions. By evaluating the spore and sporophyte genome sizes, we examined whether reproductive modes could be ascertained from these flow cytometry results.

We proposed two separate sets of optimized bead‐vortexing conditions for the nuclear extraction of green and nongreen spores. We further successfully extracted spore nuclei of 19 families covering most orders, and the qualities and quantities of these extractions satisfied the C‐value criteria. These evaluated genome sizes further supported the reproductive modes reported previously.

In the current study, flow cytometry was used for the first time to evaluate the spore genome sizes of ferns and lycophytes. This use of spore flow cytometry provides a new, efficient approach to ascertaining the reproductive modes of these plants.
Validation of a male‐linked gene locus (OGI) for sex identification in persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) and its application in F1 progeny
Authors: Zhang Ping‐Xian , Yang Si‐Chao , Liu Yi‐Feng , Zhang Qing‐Lin , Xu Li‐Qing , Luo Zheng‐Rong
Published: November 2016

It is crucial to develop a rapid technique for identifying sexuality in the seedling stage of persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.), and the elimination of male progeny has been regarded as an important strategy for enhancing breeding efficiency. In this study, phenotype characterization and genotyping of the male‐linked OGI marker were carried out using 205 accessions, including persimmon cultivars, F1 progeny and nine related Diospyros species. All persimmon cultivars displayed consistent results regarding OGI amplification and sex phenotype. A total of 143 F1 progeny were derived from 11 crosses, among which 95 individuals had flowered. In the flowering full‐sib families, the amplification of the OGI marker in agreement with the sex phenotype was obtained in 85 plants (89.5%). The segregation of OGI in ‘Huashi 1’ × ‘Luotian Tianshi’ and ‘Huashi 1’ × Male 3 F1 populations fit a 1 : 1 ratio. Furthermore, high OGI transferability was observed in nine related species. Overall, the results indicated that the OGI locus could be used to distinguish male from female persimmon plants at an early stage.
The potent pro‐oxidant activity of rhododendrol–eumelanin induces cysteine depletion in B16 melanoma cells
Authors: Ito Shosuke , Okura Masae , Wakamatsu Kazumasa , Yamashita Toshiharu
Published: November 2016

RS‐4‐(4‐Hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐butanol (rhododendrol, RD), a skin‐whitening agent, is known to induce leukoderma in some people. To explore the mechanism underlying this effect, we previously showed that the oxidation of RD with mushroom or human tyrosinase produces cytotoxic quinone oxidation products. We then examined the metabolism of RD in B16F1 melanoma cells in vitro and detected RD‐pheomelanin and RD‐quinone bound to non‐protein and protein thiols. In this study, we examined the changes in glutathione (GSH) and cysteine in B16 cells exposed to RD for up to 24 h. We find that the levels of cysteine, but not those of GSH, decrease during 0.5‐ to 3‐h exposure, due to oxidation to cystine. This pro‐oxidant activity was then examined using synthetic melanins. Indeed, we find that RD‐eumelanin exerts a pro‐oxidant activity as potent as Dopa‐pheomelanin. GSH, cysteine, ascorbic acid, and NADH were oxidized by RD‐eumelanin with a concomitant production of H2O2. We propose that RD‐eumelanin induces cytotoxicity through its potent pro‐oxidant activity.
Vaccination against H9N2 avian influenza virus reduces bronchus‐associated lymphoid tissue formation in cynomolgus macaques after intranasal virus challenge infection
Authors: Nakayama Misako , Ozaki Hiroichi , Itoh Yasushi , Soda Kosuke , Ishigaki Hirohito , Okamatsu Masatoshi , Sakoda Yoshihiro , Park Chun‐Ho , Tsuchiya Hideaki , Kida Hiroshi , Ogasawara Kazumasa
Published: November 2016

H9N2 avian influenza virus causes sporadic human infection. Since humans do not possess acquired immunity specific to this virus, we examined the pathogenicity of an H9N2 virus isolated from a human and then analyzed protective effects of a vaccine in cynomolgus macaques. After intranasal challenge with A/Hong Kong/1073/1999 (H9N2) (HK1073) isolated from a human patient, viruses were isolated from nasal and tracheal swabs in unvaccinated macaques with mild fever and body weight loss. A formalin‐inactivated H9N2 whole particle vaccine derived from our virus library was subcutaneously inoculated to macaques. Vaccination induced viral antigen‐specific IgG and neutralization activity in sera. After intranasal challenge with H9N2, the virus was detected only the day after inoculation in the vaccinated macaques. Without vaccination, many bronchus‐associated lymphoid tissues (BALTs) were formed in the lungs after infection, whereas the numbers of BALTs were smaller and the cytokine responses were weaker in the vaccinated macaques than those in the unvaccinated macaques. These findings indicate that the H9N2 avian influenza virus HK1073 is pathogenic in primates but seems to cause milder symptoms than does H7N9 influenza virus as found in our previous studies and that a formalin‐inactivated H9N2 whole particle vaccine induces protective immunity against H9N2 virus.
Advocacy Coalitions in Ontario Land Use Policy Development
Authors: Timothy Heinmiller B. , Pirak Kevin
Published: November 2016

In 2005, the Ontario government passed the Places to Grow Act and the Greenbelt Act, both major changes in land use policy designed to preserve greenspaces and combat urban sprawl in the Greater Golden Horseshoe, Canada's largest conurbation. This article examines the actors, actor beliefs, and inter‐actor alliances in the southern Ontario land use policy subsystem from the perspective of the Advocacy Coalition Framework (ACF). Specifically, this paper undertakes an empirical examination of the ACF's Belief Homophily Hypothesis, which holds that inter‐actor alliances form on the basis of shared policy‐relevant beliefs, creating advocacy coalitions. The analysis finds strong evidence of three advocacy coalitions in the policy subsystem—an agricultural coalition, an environmentalist coalition, and a developers' coalition—as predicted by the hypothesis. However, it also finds equally strong evidence of a cross‐coalition coordination network of peak organizations, something not predicted by the Belief Homophily Hypothesis, and in need of explanation within the ACF.
An Introduction to Applications of Wavelet Benchmarking with Seasonal Adjustment
Authors: Sayal Homesh , Aston John A. D. , Elliott Duncan , Ombao Hernando
Published: November 2016

Before adjustment, low and high frequency data sets from national accounts are frequently inconsistent. Benchmarking is the procedure used by economic agencies to make such data sets consistent. It typically involves adjusting the high frequency time series (e.g. quarterly data) so that they become consistent with the lower frequency version (e.g. annual data). Various methods have been developed to approach this problem of inconsistency between data sets. The paper introduces a new statistical procedure, namely wavelet benchmarking. Wavelet properties allow high and low frequency processes to be jointly analysed and we show that benchmarking can be formulated and approached succinctly in the wavelet domain. Furthermore the time and frequency localization properties of wavelets are ideal for handling more complicated benchmarking problems. The versatility of the procedure is demonstrated by using simulation studies where we provide evidence showing that it substantially outperforms currently used methods. Finally, we apply this novel method of wavelet benchmarking to official data from the UK's Office for National Statistics.
From outwash to coastal systems in the Portneuf–Forestville deltaic complex (Québec North Shore): Anatomy of a forced regressive deglacial sequence
Authors: Dietrich Pierre , Ghienne Jean‐François , Schuster Mathieu , Lajeunesse Patrick , Nutz Alexis , Deschamps Rémy , Roquin Claude , Duringer Philippe
Published: November 2016

Deglacial sequences typically include backstepping grounding zone wedges and prevailing glaciomarine depositional facies. However, in coastal domains, deglacial sequences are dominated by depositional systems ranging from turbiditic to fluvial facies. Such deglacial sequences are strongly impacted by glacio‐isostatic rebound, the rate and amplitude of which commonly outpaces those of post‐glacial eustatic sea‐level rise. This results in a sustained relative sea‐level fall covering the entire depositional time interval. This paper examines a Late Quaternary, forced regressive, deglacial sequence located on the North Shore of the St. Lawrence Estuary (Portneuf Peninsula, Québec, Canada) and aims to decipher the main controls that governed its stratigraphic architecture. The forced regressive deglacial sequence forms a thick (>100 m) and extensive (>100 km2) multiphased deltaic complex emplaced after the retreat of the Laurentide Ice Sheet margin from the study area ca 12 500 years ago. The sedimentary succession is composed of ice‐contact, glaciomarine, turbiditic, deltaic, fluvial and coastal depositional units. A four‐stage development is recognized: (i) an early ice‐contact stage (esker, glaciomarine mud and outwash fan); (ii) an in‐valley progradational stage (fjord head or moraine‐dammed lacustrine deltas) fed by glacigenics; (iii) an open‐coast deltaic progradation, when proglacial depositional systems expanded beyond the valley outlets and merged together; and (iv) a final stage of river entrenchment and shallow marine reworking that affected the previously emplaced deltaic complex. Most of the sedimentary volume (10 to 15 km3) was emplaced during the three‐first stages over a ca 2 kyr interval. In spite of sustained high rates of relative sea‐level fall (50 to 30 mm·year−1), delta plain accretion occurred up to the end of the proglacial open‐coast progradational stage. River entrenchment only occurred later, after a significant decrease in the relative sea‐level fall rates (<30 mm·year−1), and was concurrent with the formation and preservation of extensive coastal deposits (raised beaches, spit platform and barrier sands). The turnaround from delta plain accretion to river entrenchment and coastal erosion is interpreted to be a consequence of the retreat of the ice margin from the river drainage basins that led to the drastic drop of sediment supply and the abrupt decrease in progradation rates. The main internal stratigraphic discontinuity within the forced regressive deglacial sequence does not reflect changes in relative sea‐level variations.
When questions do not yield answers: Foreclosures of racial knowledge production
Authors: Henricks Kasey
Published: November 2016

Those who study racism in the U.S. enter into a conceptually ordered field. What we study is filtered in ways that are relevant to established questions of the field, effectively straining possibilities for alternative ways of knowing and what might otherwise be asked. A case can be made that despite disagreements over theory, studies on racism agree upon the importance of the following questions: What is the content, form, and style of racism, and how has it shifted in patterned and resilient ways over time? Answers to these questions vary, as do the perspectives and interests they advance, but in many ways, the substance remains the same. Too often subsequent answers are bent on the idea of racial transcendence, claiming ideology has shifted from a biological to cultural basis, or contending that racist structures today are substantively unique from the past. These themes represent a routinized convergence of intellectual thought: Change is prioritized. Rather than debate if this emphasis is correct, my suggestion is that there are other meaningful questions worth asking.
The pains of immigrant imprisonment
Authors: Longazel Jamie , Berman Jake , Fleury‐Steiner Benjamin
Published: November 2016

The immigrant detention system in the United States is civil, rather than criminal, and therefore nonpunitive. However, in practice, detained immigrants lacking many basic constitutional protections find themselves in facilities that are often indistinguishable from prisons and jails. In this paper, we explore the crisis of immigrant imprisonment at the affective level, focusing on the painful experiences of immigrant detainees, while also emphasizing its systemic and racialized nature. Specifically, we place a review of a growing body of research that draws connections between immigrant detention and mass imprisonment alongside the findings from numerous reports issued by human rights organizations on the conditions of confinement within immigrant detention facilities. Using a “pains of imprisonment” framework, we highlight four particularly prominent “pains”: containment, exploitation, coercion, and legal violence. We suggest the infliction of such pain, especially when contextualized within a broader history of Latina/o oppression, demonstrates that immigration prisons are in fact punitive, “lawless spaces” where penal oppression is exercised. We conclude with a call for sociologists to become more attentive to this crisis, and to appreciate the similarities between immigration detention and other forms of racialized social control—namely, mass incarceration.
Retirement as a Discrete Life‐Stage of Farming Men and Women's Biography?
Authors: Contzen Sandra , Zbinden Karin , Neuenschwander Cécile , Métrailler Michèle
Published: November 2016

Retirement generally marks the end of working life and the start of a new life‐stage, providing the potential for new contents and opportunities, while requiring adaptation of existing roles. Retired Swiss farming men and women usually continue working and living on the farm, but their roles change. Drawing on conceptual approaches from gerontology research, we first aim to comprehend how farming men and women experience and understand retirement by describing major aspects of adaptation during their transition to retirement. Second, we appraise the relevance of the retirement concept for the farming population. Qualitative‐empirical evidence shows that retired farming men and women continue to devote time and energy to the farm for the sake of farm continuity and to maintain the farmers' work ethic, while transferring financial and managerial responsibility. Poor health and the inability to contribute physically to the family farm appear as major threats for ‘ageing’ farmers.