bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative lineage tracing strategies to resolve multipotency in tissue-specific stem cells
Authors: Wuidart Aline , Ousset Marielle , Rulands Steffen , Simons Benjamin D. , Van Keymeulen Alexandra , Blanpain Cédric
Published: June 2016

Lineage tracing has become the method of choice to study the fate and dynamics of stem cells (SCs) during development, homeostasis, and regeneration. However, transgenic and knock-in Cre drivers used to perform lineage tracing experiments are often dynamically, temporally, and heterogeneously expressed, leading to the initial labeling of different cell types and thereby complicating their interpretation. Here, we developed two methods: the first one based on statistical analysis of multicolor lineage tracing, allowing the definition of multipotency potential to be achieved with high confidence, and the second one based on lineage tracing at saturation to assess the fate of all SCs within a given lineage and the “flux” of cells between different lineages. Our analysis clearly shows that, whereas the prostate develops from multipotent SCs, only unipotent SCs mediate mammary gland (MG) development and adult tissue remodeling. These methods offer a rigorous framework to assess the lineage relationship and SC fate in different organs and tissues.
Crystallographic and spectroscopic characterization of (R)-O-acetylmandelic acid
Authors: Cirbes Cady , Tanski Joseph M.
Published: June 2016

The title compound [systematic name: (R)-(−)-2-acetoxy-2-phenylacetic acid], C10H10O4, is a resolved chiral ester derivative of mandelic acid. The compound contains an acetate group and a carboxylic acid group, which engage in intermolecular hydrogen bonding, forming chains extending parallel to [001] with a short donor–acceptor hydrogen-bonding distance of 2.676 (2) Å.
Crystal structure oftrans-N,N′-bis(3,5-di-tert-butyl-2-hydroxyphenyl)oxamide methanol monosolvate
Authors: Velázquez-Carmona Miguel-Ángel , Bernès Sylvain , Ríos-Merino Francisco Javier , Reyes Ortega Yasmi
Published: June 2016

The here crystallized oxamide was previously characterized as an unsolvated species [Jímenez-Pérezet al.(2000).J. Organomet. Chem.614–615, 283–293], and is now reported with methanol as a solvent of crystallization, C30H44N2O4·CH3OH, in a different space group. The introduction of the solvent influences neither the molecular symmetry of the oxamide, which remains centrosymmetric, nor the molecular conformation. However, the unsolvated molecule crystallized as an ordered system, while many parts of the solvated crystal are disordered. The hydroxy group in the oxamide is disordered over two chemically equivalent positions, with occupancies 0.696 (4):0.304 (4); onetert-butyl group is disordered by rotation about the C—C bond, and was modelled with three sites for each methyl group, each one with occupancy 1/3. Finally, the methanol solvent, which lies on a twofold axis, is disordered by symmetry. The disorder affecting hydroxy groups and the solvent of crystallization allows the formation of numerous supramolecular motifs using four hydrogen bonds, with N—H and O—H groups as donors and the oxamide and methanol molecule as acceptors.
Crystal structure of hexakis(dimethyl sulfoxide-κO)manganese(II) diiodide
Authors: Glatz Mathias , Schroffenegger Martina , Weil Matthias , Kirchner Karl
Published: June 2016

The asymmetric unit of the title salt, [Mn(C2H6OS)6]I2, consists of one MnIIion, six O-bound dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) ligands and two I−counter-anions. The isolated complex cations have an octahedral configuration and are grouped in hexagonally arranged rows extending parallel to [100]. The two I−anions are located between the rows and are linked to the cations through two weak C—H...I interactions.
Crystal structure of 2-(4-acetylanilino)-2-oxoethyl 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate
Authors: Ashraf Zaman , Kim Daeyoung , Seo Sung-Yum , Kang Sung Kwon
Published: June 2016

In the title compound, C19H19NO5, the amide carbonyl O atom is positionedantito the other two carbonyl O atoms. The 4-hydroxyhydrocinnamate fragment is disordered over two positions with an occupancy ratio of 0.729 (12):0.271 (12). The N—(C=O)—C plane of the acetamide group and the acetate O—(C=O)—C plane are almost co-planar; the acetamide plane makes dihedral angles of 1.9 (6) and 16.0 (19)°, respectively, with the acetate planes of the major and minor occupancy components. In the crystal, N—H...O, O—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonds link the molecules into a supramolecular sheet structure parallel to (102).
3,5-Dibromo-4-methylpyridine
Authors: Medjani Meriem , Brihi Ouarda , Bouraoui Hazem , Hamdouni Noudjoud , Boudjada Ali , Meinnel Jean
Published: June 2016

The title compound, C6H5Br2N, lies on a mirror plane. In the crystal, molecules are linked by Br...N and Br...Br interactions, forming zigzag chains along [010]. The chains are linked by offset π–π interactions [intercentroid distance = 3.5451 (3) Å], forming a three-dimensional framework.
(4E)-1-Phenyl-4-{[(pyridin-2-yl)amino]methylidene}pyrazolidine-3,5-dione
Authors: Mohamed Shaaban K. , Mague Joel T. , Akkurt Mehmet , Khodairy Ahmed , Albayati Mustafa R. , Ahmed Eman A.
Published: June 2016

The title compound, C15H12N4O2, contains two independent molecules in the asymmetric unit. These differ in terms of dihedral angles that the phenyl and 2-pyridyl rings subtend with the central five-membered ring; 15.2 (2) and 2.9 (2)°, respectively, in one molecule, 8.9 (2) and 5.1 (2)°for the second. In the crystal, the independent molecules each self-associate to form layers through N—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonding. The layers associate through π–π interactions between the phenyl rings and isolated carbon–carbon double bonds [shortest midpoint–centroid distance = 3.347 (4) Å]. The crystal studied was refined as a two-component twin.
Consumer perceptions of online review deceptions: an empirical study in China
Authors: Peng Ling , Cui Geng , Zhuang Mengzhou , Li Chunyu
Published: June 2016

Purpose

To influence consumer perceptions, firms often manipulate online product reviews on their own websites or third-party forums by anonymously adding positive reviews, deleting unfavorable reviews or offering rewards to encourage favorable reviews. This study aims to investigate consumer perceptions of online review deceptions and how these perceptions influence their subsequent purchase behavior. In particular, consumers’ awareness, suspicion and detection are studied and specific manipulation tactics are evaluated.

Design/methodology/approach

Both qualitative and quantitative studies are relied upon to understand consumer perceptions of online review deceptions. In-depth interviews with 16 experienced online shoppers were conducted to collect the illustrative accounts concerning consumer awareness of online review deceptions, their suspicion, detection and evaluation of different manipulation tactics. A survey of 199 consumers was then followed to validate and corroborate the findings from the qualitative study and generalize the interview results onto the general public.

Findings

The results from in-depth interviews suggest that consumers take a negative view toward online review deceptions, but the degree of negativity varies across different manipulation tactics. Moreover, different types of manipulations vary in terms of perceived deceptiveness, ease of detection and unethicality, as well as their effect on consumer purchase intention and perceived helpfulness of online product reviews. The findings from the survey further confirmed the qualitative findings.

Practical implications

The findings have a number of meaningful managerial implications for industry associations and policymakers on whether and how to regulate online review deceptions.

Originality/value

This study applies and extends information manipulation theory and deception detection literature to an online context to increase the richness of the relevant theories. It is among the first to empirically investigate online review deceptions from a consumer’s perspective, as opposed to a firm’s perspective as previous studies have done.
Harm in price promotions: when coupons elicit reactance
Authors: Trump Rebecca K.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

This research aims to demonstrate that coupons with short durations for redemption can backfire, lowering consumers’ attitudes toward the company.

Design/methodology/approach

Two experimental studies in the restaurant context demonstrate the backfire effect. A boundary condition of the effect as well as the underlying psychological process are identified.

Findings

Consumers respond adversely to coupons with restrictive requirements for redemption – in particular, a short duration. Study 1 indicates that while a short-duration (vs long-duration) coupon may backfire when its face value is low, this backfire effect is attenuated when the coupon’s face value is high. Furthermore, Studies 1 and 2 provide evidence that psychological reactance is the process underlying this backfire effect.

Originality/value

Consumers respond negatively to coupons with restrictive requirements for redemption because they perceive them as a company’s attempt to limit their freedom of choice. Companies should take measures, including careful target marketing, to avoid rousing this reaction from their consumers.
Evaluation of a ‘healthiness’ rating system for food outlet types in Australian residential communities
Authors: Moayyed Hamid , Kelly Bridget , Feng Xiaoqi , Flood Victoria
Published: June 2016

Aim

To obtain expert consensus to develop and evaluate a rating system on the relative healthiness of Australian suburbs’ food outlet types.

Methods

Twenty‐four food outlet types and 10 local suburbs were identified from previous mapping studies and based on a scan of suburbs across one large Australian geographical region. Initial food outlet ‘scores’ for relative healthiness were proposed based on available literature, classified into five categories, from ‘most’ to ‘least’ healthy. In round 1 of a modified Delphi survey, participants, Australian public health and nutrition experts, were given each outlet type's definition and the proposed scores and invited to modify the scores based on their perceived ‘healthiness’. In round 2, participants were able to revise or adjust their scores.

Results

Median scores for food outlet types from both rounds highly correlated with the originally proposed scores (two‐tailed Pearson's correlation coefficient 0.97 and 0.96, respectively, P = 0.01), and scores from round 1 highly correlated with those from round 2 (Pearson's coefficient 0.998, P = 0.01). Round 2 scores were used to calculate suburbs’ overall food environment score, healthiness score, unhealthiness score and a ratio of unhealthiness to healthiness scores. There was strong positive correlation between suburbs’ ratio of unhealthiness to healthiness scores and a previously recognised scoring ratio, Retail Food Environment Index (Spearman's rho 0.847, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The study generated experts’ consensus about relative healthiness of food outlet types found in Australian neighbourhoods. Proposed scores can be used to assess and compare healthiness of community food environments and to explore their associations with area characteristics, population's diet and health outcomes.
Diagnostic Imaging Strategies for Occult Hip Fractures: A Decision and Cost–Effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Yun Brian J. , Myriam Hunink M. G. , Prabhakar Anand M. , Heng Marilyn , Liu Shan W. , Qudsi Rameez , Raja Ali S.
Published: June 2016

Objective

Hip fractures cause significant morbidity and mortality. Determining the optimal diagnostic strategy for the subset of patients with potential occult hip fracture remains challenging. We determined the most cost‐effective strategy for the diagnosis of occult hip fractures from the choices of performing only computed tomography (CT), performing only magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), performing CT and if negative performing MRI (MRI‐selective strategy) or discharging the patient without advanced imaging.

Methods

We developed a decision‐analytic model to compare outcomes and costs of different diagnostic strategies for the diagnosis of an occult hip fracture from a societal perspective. Model inputs were derived from charge data, Medicare reimbursements, and the literature. Strategies with an incremental cost–effectiveness ratio (ICER) below $100,000 per quality‐adjusted life‐year (QALY) gained were considered cost‐effective. We tested the robustness of our results using probabilistic sensitivity analysis.

Results

Compared to a CT strategy, MRI provides an additional 0.05 QALY at an incremental cost of $1,227 and ICER of $25,438/QALY. For facilities without MRI capability, if the cost of transfer is below $1,228, transferring the patient to a MRI‐capable facility is the most cost‐effective strategy. Above this cost, employing a CT and if negative transfer to a MRI‐capable facility strategy was more cost‐effective. When the cost of a transfer reached more than $4,039, it became more cost‐effective to only obtain a CT.

Conclusion

MRI is a cost‐effective strategy for the diagnosis of an occult hip fracture. For facilities without MRI capability, the most cost‐effective strategy depends on the cost of the interfacility transfer.
How many Layers has the Adventitia? – Structure of the Arterial Tunica Externa Revisited
Authors: Witter K. , Tonar Z. , Schöpper H.
Published: June 2016

Tunica adventitia or tunica externa is the outer layer of the blood vessel wall. It consists of connective tissue with vasa and nervi vasorum and plays a key role in vascular health. The aim of our study was to compare the wall layers beyond tunica media in arteries of different type and location. The following arteries of pig, dog and cat were processed histologically and analysed by light microscopy: aorta ascendens, arcus aortae, aorta thoracica, aorta abdominalis, arteria (a.) femoralis, a. tibialis cranialis, a. carotis communis, a. lingualis, a. basilaris, a. cerebralis media, a. testicularis and aa. jejunales. We found two layers of connective tissue outside the media: (1) a compact layer with many elastic fibres in muscular and few in elastic arteries and (2) an outer layer of loose connective tissue. The compact layer was missing in aorta ascendens, arcus aortae and intracranial vessels. Adventitial stripping removed only the loose connective tissue layer. In spite of the still present compact layer, stripped arteries were very flimsy. We suggest using the term ‘tunica externa’ for the compact connective tissue layer and ‘tunica adventitia’ for the outermost loose connective tissue layer as in other organs. The presence of the tunica externa differs between species, arteries and arterial side, as well as the removability of tunica adventitia and tunica externa by anatomical dissection.
Markers of tolerance development to food allergens
Authors: Ponce M. , Diesner S. C. , Szépfalusi Z. , Eiwegger T.
Published: June 2016

IgE‐mediated reactions to food allergens are the most common cause of anaphylaxis in childhood. Although allergies to cow's milk, egg, or soy proteins, in contrast to peanut and tree nut allergens, resolve within the first 6 years of life in up to 60% due to natural tolerance development, this process is not well understood. At present, there is no cure or treatment for food allergy that would result in an induction of tolerance to the symptom‐eliciting food. Avoidance, providing an emergency plan and education, is the standard of treatment. Oral immunotherapeutic approaches have been proven reasonable efficacy; however, they are associated with high rates of side‐effects and low numbers of patients achieving tolerance. Nevertheless, mechanisms that take place during oral immunotherapy may help to understand tolerance development. On the basis of these therapeutic interventions, events like loss of basophil activation and induction of regulatory lymphocyte subsets and of blocking antibodies have been described. Their functional importance at a clinical level, however, remains to be investigated in detail. Consequently, there is eminent need to understand the process of tolerance development to food allergens and define biomarkers to develop and monitor new treatment strategies for food allergy.
Pelvic fracture‐specific scales versus general patient reported scales for pelvic fracture outcomes: a systematic review
Authors: Lumsdaine William , Weber Dieter G. , Balogh Zsolt J.
Published: June 2016

Background

Multiple scoring systems are used in the assessment of post‐injury outcomes in pelvic fracture patients. Although commonly used, there is scarce evidence as to their validity.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of the current literature to compare a well validated generic outcome tool (Short Form‐36 (SF‐36)) and three commonly used pelvic‐specific outcome tools, the Iowa Pelvic Score, Majeed Pelvic Score and Orlando Pelvic Score.

Results

Eleven papers were found that used both the SF‐36 and one or more of the pelvic‐specific outcome tools. The data demonstrate great variability in both the method of application and form of reporting.

Conclusion

The pelvic‐specific tools produce similar results to the SF‐36 and are potentially more sensitive in examining specific areas related to pelvic injuries and easier to perform and calculate than the SF‐36.
Explaining university students’ effective use of e‐learning platforms
Authors: Moreno Valter , Cavazotte Flavia , Alves Isabela
Published: June 2016

Students’ success in e‐learning programs depends on how they adopt and embed technology into their learning activities. Drawing on the Technology Acceptance Model, we propose a framework to explain students’ intention to use e‐learning platforms effectively, that is, their intention to fully exploit system's functionalities in leaning processes, even when this would require changes in study routines. The model was tested with data from 251 students enrolled in distance learning Business Administration programs. Results of structural equation modeling supported most hypotheses. Over 71% of the variance of intention to use an e‐learning platform were explained. Our findings indicate that students’ perceptions of system usefulness and ease of use positively influence their intention to effectively use e‐learning systems, and that these effects are fully mediated by students’ attitudes towards the LMS. Furthermore, system usefulness and ease of use are influenced by students’ cognitive absorption and self‐efficacy, as well as by system interactivity and facilitating conditions (FC).
4‐amino‐6‐alkyloxy‐2‐alkylthiopyrimidine derivatives as novel non‐nucleoside agonists for the adenosine A1 receptor
Authors: Cosimelli Barbara , Greco Giovanni , Laneri Sonia , Novellino Ettore , Sacchi Antonia , Trincavelli Maria Letizia , Giacomelli Chiara , Taliani Sabrina , Da Settimo Federico , Martini Claudia
Published: June 2016

Three 4‐amino‐6‐alkyloxy‐2‐alkylthiopyrimidine derivatives (4–6) were investigated as potential non‐nucleoside agonists at human adenosine receptors (ARs). When tested in competition binding experiments, these compounds exhibited low micromolar affinity (Ki values comprised between 1.2 and 1.9 μm) for the A1 AR and no appreciable affinity for the A2A and A3 ARs. Evaluation of their efficacy profiles by measurement of intracellular cAMP levels revealed that 4 and 5 behave as non‐nucleoside agonists of the A1 AR with EC50 values of 0.47 and 0.87 μm, respectively. No clear concentration‐response curves could be instead obtained for 6, probably because this compound modulates one or more additional targets, thus masking the putative effects exerted by its activation of A1 AR. The three compounds were not able to modulate A2B AR‐mediated cAMP accumulation induced by the non‐selective AR agonist NECA, thus demonstrating no affinity toward this receptor.
Children's Voices: Conflict‐Affected Orphans in Residential Care in Jammu and Kashmir
Authors: Singh Moksha , Jha Munmun
Published: June 2016

This paper is based on a study of thirty‐one children who lost their parent(s) in the course of armed conflict in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in India, and were put in various orphanages across the state. The qualitative research method was employed in order to examine and understand and the nature of problems faced by these children. It explores ways in which these children seek to come to terms with the reality, and highlights the importance and relevance of incorporating their views in programmes meant for their rehabilitation and reintegration into the society.
Acute resistance exercise with blood flow restriction in elderly hypertensive women: haemodynamic, rating of perceived exertion and blood lactate
Authors: Pinto Roberta R. , Karabulut Murat , Poton Roberto , Polito Marcos D.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

This study aimed to compare haemodynamic, rating of perceived exertion and blood lactate responses during resistance exercise with blood flow restriction (BFR) compared with traditional high‐intensity resistance exercise in hypertensive older women.

Methods

Eighteen hypertensive women (age = 67·0 ± 1·7 years.) undertook three random sessions: (i) three sets; 10 repetitions; 20% of one repetition maximum (1RM) with BFR; (ii) three sets; 10 repetitions; 65% of 1RM; without BFR; and (iii) no‐exercise with BFR. The exercise sessions were performed on knee extension equipment.

Results

Systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV) and cardiac output (CO) were significantly higher (P<0·05) in all sets of exercise sessions than the control. No statistically significant differences were detected between exercise sessions. However, SBP, DBP and systemic vascular resistance were higher (P<0·05) and SV and CO were lower (P<0·05) during the rest intervals in the session with BFR. The perceived exertion was significantly higher (P<0·01) in the 1st (4·8 ± 0·4 versus 3·1 ± 0·3), 2nd (7·3 ± 0·4 versus 5·7 ± 0·4) and 3rd sets (8·6 ± 0·5 versus 7·5 ± 0·4) of the traditional high‐intensity resistance exercise compared with the exercise with BFR. Blood lactate was higher (P<0·05) in the traditional high‐intensity resistance exercise (6·2 ± 0·7 mmol) than in the exercise with BFR (4·5 ± 0·4 mmol).

Conclusion

In comparison with high‐intensity resistance exercise, low‐intensity resistance exercise with BFR can elicit: (i) same haemodynamic values during exercise; (ii) lower rating of perceived exertion; (iii) lower blood lactate; (iv) higher haemodynamic demand during the rest intervals.
Power, Ideology and Global Development: On the Origins, Evolution and Achievements of UNCTAD
Authors: Karshenas Massoud
Published: June 2016

UNCTAD was created in 1964 as a forum for strategic thinking about international trade and development issues and for identifying mutually beneficial opportunities for policy coordination and international cooperation with the participation of both developing and industrialized countries. The history of UNCTAD, with its successes and failures, therefore, is closely intertwined with the history of ideas on trade and development and the interplay of political power and ideological manipulation in international trade and development policy making. This article focuses on the intellectual traditions in economics which underpinned the formation of UNCTAD and examines the way in which such intellectual traditions have informed — both in method and substance — the subsequent thinking and research output by the institution and helped define its objectives. It compares UNCTAD's methods and research output on a number of international development issues with the positions taken by other international institutions. These findings are used to reflect on the ideological element in development economics thinking.
Classifying the manual abilities of young children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Jeevanantham Deepa
Published: June 2016

This commentary is on the original article by Eliasson et al. on pages 72–78 of this issue.
Climate change and the evolution of reef fishes: past and future
Authors: Rummer Jodie L , Munday Philip L
Published: June 2016

Predicting the impacts of ocean warming and acidification on marine ecosystems requires an evolutionary perspective because, for most marine species, these environmental changes will occur over a number of generations. Acclimation through phenotypic plasticity and adaptation through genetic selection could help populations of some species cope with future warmer and more acidic oceans. Coral reef species are predicted to be some of the most vulnerable to climate change because they live close to their thermal limits. Yet, their evolutionary history may indicate that they possess adaptations that enable them to cope with a high CO2 environment. Here, we first explore the evolutionary history of reef fishes and how their history has shaped their physiological adaptations to environmental temperatures and pCO2. We examine current‐day thermal and CO2 environments experienced by coral reef fishes and summarize experimental studies that have tested how they respond to elevated temperatures and pCO2 levels. We then examine evidence for acclimation and adaptation to projected ocean warming and acidification. Indeed, new studies have demonstrated the potential for transgenerational plasticity and heritable genetic variation that would allow some fishes to maintain performance as the oceans warm and become more acidic. We conclude by outlining management approaches – specifically those that can help preserve genetic variation by maintaining population size – to enhance the potential for genetic adaptation to climate change.
Parent Management Training—Oregon Model: Adapting Intervention with Rigorous Research
Authors: Forgatch Marion S. , Kjøbli John
Published: June 2016

Parent Management Training—Oregon Model (PMTO®) is a set of theory‐based parenting programs with status as evidence‐based treatments. PMTO has been rigorously tested in efficacy and effectiveness trials in different contexts, cultures, and formats. Parents, the presumed agents of change, learn core parenting practices, specifically skill encouragement, limit setting, monitoring/supervision, interpersonal problem solving, and positive involvement. The intervention effectively prevents and ameliorates children's behavior problems by replacing coercive interactions with positive parenting practices. Delivery format includes sessions with individual families in agencies or families' homes, parent groups, and web‐based and telehealth communication. Mediational models have tested parenting practices as mechanisms of change for children's behavior and found support for the theory underlying PMTO programs. Moderating effects include children's age, maternal depression, and social disadvantage. The Norwegian PMTO implementation is presented as an example of how PMTO has been tailored to reach diverse populations as delivered by multiple systems of care throughout the nation. An implementation and research center in Oslo provides infrastructure and promotes collaboration between practitioners and researchers to conduct rigorous intervention research. Although evidence‐based and tested within a wide array of contexts and populations, PMTO must continue to adapt to an ever‐changing world.
On the stress state in rectilinear anisotropic thick plates with blunt cracks
Authors: Zappalorto M.
Published: June 2016

In this paper the analytical solution for the stress fields in the close neighbourhoods of blunt cracks in thick anisotropic plates is provided. As a first step the equations of the three‐dimensional theory of elasticity are successfully reduced to two un‐coupled equations in the two‐dimensional space. Later on, the 3D stress field solution for anisotropic plates with blunt cracks is presented and its degree of accuracy discussed comparing theoretical results and numerical data from 3D FE analyses. Eventually, relevant expressions for the Generalised Stress Intensity Factors for blunt cracks in orthotropic plates under mode I, II and III are provided.
Brain and behaviour phenotyping of a mouse model of neurofibromatosis type‐1: an MRI/DTI study on social cognition
Authors: Petrella L. I. , Cai Y. , Sereno J. V. , Gonçalves S. I. , Silva A. J. , Castelo‐Branco M.
Published: June 2016

Neurofibromatosis type‐1 (NF1) is a common neurogenetic disorder and an important cause of intellectual disability. Brain‐behaviour associations can be examined in vivo using morphometric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to study brain structure. Here, we studied structural and behavioural phenotypes in heterozygous Nf1 mice (Nf1+/−) using T2‐weighted imaging MRI and DTI, with a focus on social recognition deficits. We found that Nf1+/− mice have larger volumes than wild‐type (WT) mice in regions of interest involved in social cognition, the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and the caudate‐putamen (CPu). Higher diffusivity was found across a distributed network of cortical and subcortical brain regions, within and beyond these regions. Significant differences were observed for the social recognition test. Most importantly, significant structure–function correlations were identified concerning social recognition performance and PFC volumes in Nf1+/− mice. Analyses of spatial learning corroborated the previously known deficits in the mutant mice, as corroborated by platform crossings, training quadrant time and average proximity measures. Moreover, linear discriminant analysis of spatial performance identified 2 separate sub‐groups in Nf1+/− mice. A significant correlation between quadrant time and CPu volumes was found specifically for the sub‐group of Nf1+/− mice with lower spatial learning performance, suggesting additional evidence for reorganization of this region. We found strong evidence that social and spatial cognition deficits can be associated with PFC/CPu structural changes and reorganization in NF1.
Belowground impacts of perennial grass cultivation for sustainable biofuel feedstock production in the tropics
Authors: Sumiyoshi Yudai , Crow Susan E. , Litton Creighton M. , Deenik Jonathan L. , Taylor Andrew D. , Turano Brian , Ogoshi Richard
Published: June 2016

Perennial grasses can sequester soil organic carbon (SOC) in sustainably managed biofuel systems, directly mitigating atmospheric CO2 concentrations while simultaneously generating biomass for renewable energy. The objective of this study was to quantify SOC accumulation and identify the primary drivers of belowground C dynamics in a zero‐tillage production system of tropical perennial C4 grasses grown for biofuel feedstock in Hawaii. Specifically, the quantity, quality, and fate of soil C inputs were determined for eight grass accessions – four varieties each of napier grass and guinea grass. Carbon fluxes (soil CO2 efflux, aboveground net primary productivity, litterfall, total belowground carbon flux, root decay constant), C pools (SOC pool and root biomass), and C quality (root chemistry, C and nitrogen concentrations, and ratios) were measured through three harvest cycles following conversion of a fallow field to cultivated perennial grasses. A wide range of SOC accumulation occurred, with both significant species and accession effects. Aboveground biomass yield was greater, and root lignin concentration was lower for napier grass than guinea grass. Structural equation modeling revealed that root lignin concentration was the most important driver of SOC pool: varieties with low root lignin concentration, which was significantly related to rapid root decomposition, accumulated the greatest amount of SOC. Roots with low lignin concentration decomposed rapidly, but the residue and associated microbial biomass/by‐products accumulated as SOC. In general, napier grass was better suited for promoting soil C sequestration in this system. Further, high‐yielding varieties with low root lignin concentration provided the greatest climate change mitigation potential in a ratoon system. Understanding the factors affecting SOC accumulation and the net greenhouse gas trade‐offs within a biofuel production system will aid in crop selection to meet multiple goals toward environmental and economic sustainability.
Nucleos(t)ide analogs improve long‐term prognosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B‐associated liver failure
Authors: Hu Ting , Yao Lipeng , Hu Airong , Jiang Suwen , Ying Hao , Deng Qinzhi , Hu Yaoren , Zhou Wenhong , Xiong Tao
Published: June 2016

Aim

Chronic hepatitis B‐associated liver failure (CHB‐LF) is associated with high mortality. Antiviral therapy with nucleoside and nucleotide analogs (NUCs) has been reported to improve the short‐term prognosis of patients with CHB‐LF. However, the long‐term effects of the therapy remain unclear. We undertook a cohort study to investigate the long‐term effect of NUC‐based antiviral therapy in patients with CHB‐LF.

Methods

A total of 976 patients with CHB‐LF were enrolled between January 2001 and December 2009 at the Liver Disease Center of Ningbo No. 2 Hospital (Ningbo, China). The patients were divided into the NUC treatment group (n = 412) and control group (n = 564). The propensity score matching method was used to match the patients between the two groups to equilibrate the covariates. Survival analysis was carried out using the matched samples. The Cox proportional hazard model was used for the analysis of prognostic factors.

Results

After propensity matching, 262 pairs were successfully matched. No statistically significant difference was observed in the baseline characteristics of the matching pairs (P > 0.05). The long‐term survival rate and survival duration of the NUC treatment group were higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). Gender, age, Model for End‐stage Liver Disease values, cholinesterase levels, white blood cell counts, hepatic encephalopathy, concomitant infection, and treatment with NUCs were found to be the independent factors associated with long‐term prognosis.

Conclusion

Antiviral therapy with NUCs may reduce the mortality rate and improve the long‐term prognosis of patients with CHB‐LF.
Transcriptome analysis provides insight into venom evolution in a seed‐parasitic wasp, Megastigmus spermotrophus
Authors: Paulson A. R. , Le C. H. , Dickson J. C. , Ehlting J. , von Aderkas P. , Perlman S. J.
Published: June 2016

One of the most striking host range transitions is the evolution of plant parasitism from animal parasitism. Parasitoid wasps that have secondarily evolved to attack plants (ie gall wasps and seed‐feeders) demonstrate intimate associations with their hosts, yet the mechanism of plant–host manipulation is currently not known. There is, however, emerging evidence suggesting that ovipositional secretions play a role in plant manipulation. To investigate whether parasites have modified pre‐existing adaptations to facilitate dramatic host shifts we aimed to characterize the expression of venom proteins in a plant parasite using a collection of parasitoid venom sequences as a guide. The transcriptome of a seed‐feeding wasp, Megastigmus spermotrophus, was assembled de novo and three putative venoms were found to be highly expressed in adult females. One of these putative venoms, aspartylglucosaminidase, has been previously identified as a major venom component in two distantly related parasitoid wasps (Asobara tabida and Leptopilina heterotoma) and may have originated via gene duplication within the Hymenoptera. Our study shows that M. spermotrophus, a specialized plant parasite, expresses putative venom transcripts that share homology to venoms identified in Nasonia vitripennis (both superfamily Chalcidoidea), which suggests that M. spermotrophus may have co‐opted pre‐existing machinery to develop as a plant parasite.
Aqueous Slip Casting of Transparent Aluminum Oxynitride
Authors: Kumar Rajendran Senthil , Johnson Roy
Published: June 2016

Highly transparent Aluminum oxynitride (AlON) body has been produced using aqueous slip casting technique. High‐purity alumina and AlN were used as raw materials for the synthesis of single‐phase AlON powder. As‐synthesized AlON powder was surface modified to enable the AlON powders resistant to hydrolysis in water during aqueous slip casting. High solid loaded aqueous AlON slip was prepared for casting followed by drying and sintering to produce transparent AlON. Phase formation and stability was characterized by XRD, pH, and viscosity measurements. AlON powders before and after surface treatments were characterized. Sintered transparent AlON samples were characterized for their mechanical, microstructural, and optical properties. Sintered and polished AlON produced in this study has shown inline transparency up to 80% between 0.22 and 6 μm wavelength region.
Industrial Ecology Education at Tsinghua University
Authors: Shi Lei
Published: June 2016

As a leading university in engineering education in China, Tsinghua University implemented industrial ecology (IE) education in the 1990s. This article describes the evolution of IE education at Tsinghua. Tsinghua mainstreams IE education into green education and engineering education not only by establishing independent courses of IE for both undergraduate and graduate students, but also by incorporating IE principles and knowledge modules into an increasing number of courses. During 2002–2015, a total of 1,023 undergraduates from 33 schools and departments participated in an IE course. To cope with the diversity of participants, four knowledge modules were customized for an undergraduate course: concepts and history; methods and tools; topics and applications; and policy and perspectives. Meanwhile, an interdisciplinary teaching method was adopted by inviting experts from diverse disciplines and organizing group discussions. Though the course has received strong positive feedback, four challenges still remain in IE education: defining the knowledge boundary, presenting an integrated view, utilizing an interdisciplinary methodology, and cultivating a class culture.
Social workers' attributions towards individuals with dual diagnosis of intellectual disability and mental illness
Authors: Araten‐Bergman T. , Werner S.
Published: June 2016

Background

The present study aimed to explore the applicability of the attribution model to social workers' attributions towards clients with dual diagnosis of intellectual disability and psychiatric illness. Specifically, the study examined the relations between social workers' attribution of responsibility, causality, stereotypes of dangerousness, their emotional reactions and behavioural reactions towards clients with dual diagnosis.

Method

Social workers (N = 279) completed questionnaires measuring attributions of responsibility, causation and dangerousness, and reported on their emotional and behavioural reactions to clients diagnosed with DD.

Results

Most social workers reported high levels of helping behaviours. The strongest predictor of discriminatory behaviours was the stereotype of dangerousness. Social workers who reported feeling less anger and more pity towards clients with DD tended to report higher levels of helping behaviour. But contrary to attribution theory, fear and anger did not predict discriminatory behaviours.

Conclusion

The results are discussed in relation to the core values of social work and to professional identity.
Pay for Talk: How the Use of Shareholder‐Value Language Affects CEO Compensation
Authors: Shin Taekjin , You Jihae
Published: June 2016

The language that signals conformity to a prevailing norm can contribute to the appearance of managerial competency and organizational legitimacy. We argue that top corporate managers’ use of language that is congruent with a prevailing norm leads the boards of directors to evaluate the managers more favourably and to grant a higher level of compensation. We test this argument by analysing the letters to shareholders from 334 US firms and examine the CEOs’ expression of the shareholder value principle, which is a prevailing model of corporate governance in the USA. We found that the use of shareholder‐value language is significantly related to a higher level of CEO compensation and that the effect of shareholder‐value language is greater when shareholder activism is stronger.
Is bruxism a disorder or a behaviour? Rethinking the international consensus on defining and grading of bruxism
Authors: Raphael K. G. , Santiago V. , Lobbezoo F.
Published: June 2016

Inspired by the international consensus on defining and grading of bruxism (Lobbezoo F, Ahlberg J, Glaros AG, Kato T, Koyano K, Lavigne GJ et al. J Oral Rehabil. 2013;40:2), this commentary examines its contribution and underlying assumptions for defining sleep bruxism (SB). The consensus’ parsimonious redefinition of bruxism as a behaviour is an advance, but we explore an implied question: might SB be more than behaviour? Behaviours do not inherently require clinical treatment, making the consensus‐proposed ‘diagnostic grading system’ inappropriate. However, diagnostic grading might be useful, if SB were considered a disorder. Therefore, to fully appreciate the contribution of the consensus statement, we first consider standards and evidence for determining whether SB is a disorder characterised by harmful dysfunction or a risk factor increasing probability of a disorder. Second, the strengths and weaknesses of the consensus statement's proposed ‘diagnostic grading system’ are examined. The strongest evidence‐to‐date does not support SB as disorder as implied by ‘diagnosis’. Behaviour alone is not diagnosed; disorders are. Considered even as a grading system of behaviour, the proposed system is weakened by poor sensitivity of self‐report for direct polysomnographic (PSG)‐classified SB and poor associations between clinical judgments of SB and portable PSG; reliance on dichotomised reports; and failure to consider SB behaviour on a continuum, measurable and definable through valid behavioural observation. To date, evidence for validity of self‐report or clinician report in placing SB behaviour on a continuum is lacking, raising concerns about their potential utility in any bruxism behavioural grading system, and handicapping future study of whether SB may be a useful risk factor for, or itself a disorder requiring treatment.
Species‐delimitation and phylogenetic analyses of some cosmopolitan species of Hypnea (Rhodophyta) reveal synonyms and misapplied names to H. cervicornis, including a new species from Brazil
Authors: de Jesus Priscila Barreto , Nauer Fabio , Lyra Goia de Mattos , Cassano Valéria , Oliveira Mariana Cabral , Nunes José Marcos de Castro , Schnadelbach Alessandra Selbach
Published: June 2016

Hypnea has an intricate nomenclatural history due to a wide pantropical distribution and considerable morphological variation. Recent molecular studies have provided further clarification on the systematics of the genus; however, species of uncertain affinities remain due to flawed taxonomic identification. Detailed analyses coupled with literature review indicated a strong relationship among H. aspera, H. cervicornis, H. flexicaulis, and H. tenuis, suggesting a need for further taxonomic studies. Here, we analyzed sequences from two molecular markers (COI‐5P and rbcL) and performed several DNA‐based delimitation methods (mBGD, ABGD, SPN, PTP and GMYC). These molecular approaches were contrasted with morphological and phylogenetic evidence from type specimens and/or topotype collections of related species under a conservative approach. Our results demonstrate that H. aspera and H. flexicaulis represent heterotypic synonyms of H. cervicornis and indicate the existence of a misidentified Hypnea species, widely distributed on the Brazilian coast, described here as a new species: H. brasiliensis. Finally, inconsistencies observed among our results based on six different species delimitation methods evidence the need for adequate sampling and marker choice for different methods.
Vaccination with recombinant RgpA peptide protects against Porphyromonas gingivalis‐induced bone loss
Authors: Wilensky A. , Potempa J. , Houri‐Haddad Y. , Shapira L.
Published: June 2016

Objective

Following Porphyromonas gingivalis infection in mice, the efficacy of vaccination by recombinant and native RgpA in modulating the early local anti‐inflammatory and immune responses and periodontal bone loss were examined.

Material and Methods

Using the subcutaneous chamber model, exudates were analyzed for cytokines after treatment with native RgpA and adjuvant (test), or adjuvant and saline alone (controls). Mice were also immunized with recombinant RgpA after being orally infected with P. gingivalis. After 6 wk, serum was examined for anti‐P. gingivalis IgG1 and IgG2a titers and for alveolar bone resorption.

Results

Immunization with native RgpA shifted the immune response toward an anti‐inflammatory response as demonstrated by decreased proinflammatory cytokine IL‐1β production and greater anti‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐4 in chamber exudates. Systemically, immunization with recombinant RgpA peptide prevented alveolar bone loss by 50%, similar to immunization with heat‐killed whole bacteria. Furthermore, recombinant RgpA shifted the humoral response toward high IgG1 and low IgG2a titers, representing an in vivo anti‐inflammatory response.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates the potential of RgpA to shift the early local immune response toward an anti‐inflammatory response while vaccination with recRgpA protected against P. gingivalis‐induced periodontitis.
A Comparison Between Young and Elderly Adults Investigating the Manual and Oral Capabilities During the Eating Process
Authors: Laguna Laura , Aktar Tugba , Ettelaie Rammile , Holmes Melvin , Chen Jianshe
Published: June 2016

The adequacy of food handling and eating performance is vital for human survival and well‐being. However, physiological weakness due to ageing can often lead to compromised living. This work investigated quantifiable parameters to find associations between age and the eating capability in young (n = 36) and elderly sample populations (n = 40). The primary focus was to evaluate the strength of hand (hand and finger grip), mouth (tongue pressure) and the capability of texture discrimination (touch sensitivity and gel firmness). It was observed that, with age increment, there was a decrease in all measured forces (hand, finger, tongue) and an increased threshold in the texture discrimination (tactile and pair comparison test); the most decreased capability was observed in elderly women. Further statistical analyses show that hand grip force was related to finger force, tongue pressure and texture discrimination. These results demonstrate that a clear physiological separation exists between the two age groups and that the eating capability of an elderly individual can be objectively evaluated.

Practical Applications

It is well understood that the elderly population is particularly vulnerable to malnutrition through decreased appetite which as a consequence affects health status. The level of proficiency in the associated food manipulation, mastication and deglutition executed during the process correlate with the eating proficiency or capability. To date, to the authors knowledge, there are no studies which address the eating capacity of the elderly population. It was observed that with increasing age, a corresponding decrease in deliverable force using the hand, finger and tongue was noted. Accompanying these findings, an increase in the threshold in texture discrimination (i.e., tactile and pair‐wise comparison tests) was also found with the elderly female group exhibiting the greatest reduction in capacity. The findings in this work offer objective measures with which to develop novel foods specifically aimed at improving nutritional products for the elderly.