bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathological Gambling in Parkinson's disease: Autonomic measures supporting impaired decision‐making
Authors: Angioletti Laura , Siri Chiara , Meucci Nicoletta , Pezzoli Gianni , Balconi Michela
Published: June 2018

According to the somatic marker hypothesis, autonomic measures and arousal modulation can reveal a difference in subgroups of patients developing impaired decision‐making because of addictions. Previously, pathological gambling (PG) and Parkinson's disease (PD) have been associated with differential arousal levels during gambling behavior. However, no research considered the specific autonomic responses of Parkinson's disease patients with pathological gambling and with a previous history of gambling. Thus, this study investigated skin conductance responses (SCRs), skin conductance level (SCL) and heart rate (HR) during the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) in two groups of PD patients with gambling disorder, active (PD Gamblers; n = 14) or remitted (PD Non‐Gamblers; n = 13) and a control group of patients with Parkinson's disease only (n = 13). Anticipatory autonomic responses to disadvantageous decks and advantageous decks during the Iowa Gambling Task were measured for each participant. The PD Gamblers group performed worse than the PD Non‐Gamblers and the control groups at the IGT task and exhibited lower SCRs, SCL, and HR during the decision‐making processing of cards belonging to disadvantageous decks. The role of autonomic and behavioral measures was considered.
Normativity and Desirability in Observational Assessments of Family Interaction
Authors: Deal James E.
Published: June 2018

Issues of normativity (responding in a typical or average fashion) and desirability (the tendency for raters to endorse positive characteristics rather than neutral or more negative ones) are common in areas of the social sciences that frequently utilize profile correlations to measure dyadic similarity. They have implications for family scholars as well. In the present study, a pre‐existing data set was used to make an initial, though limited, investigation into potential confounds of normativity and desirability for macrolevel observational assessments of family interaction. An empirical example is presented using q‐sort ratings of family interaction, with variance in observational assessments decomposed into component parts. High levels of both normativity and desirability were found, indicating possible problems in terms of both reliability and validity of assessment. While the results provide an interesting beginning, they are limited due to the use of a q‐sort methodology as well as an instrument with limited background and use. These limitations are discussed, as well as alternative interpretations for normativity and desirability and implications for future research.
Fatigue performance of RC beams strengthened with CFRP under coupling action of temperatures and vehicle random loads
Authors: Lin JX , Huang PY , Guo XY , Zheng XH , Zhao C.
Published: June 2018

Considering significant influence of servicing environments and vehicle random loads on fatigue performance of main load‐bearing members of bridges, in this paper, fatigue performance of reinforced concrete bridge structures strengthened with carbon fibre–reinforced polymer under coupling action of environmental temperatures and vehicle random loads was studied. A vehicle random loading spectrum for fatigue tests was simulated and compiled. A fatigue testing method with coupling action of random loads and temperatures was proposed, and 3‐point bending fatigue tests of the reinforced concrete beams strengthened with carbon fibre–reinforced polymer under coupling action of temperatures and vehicle random loads were performed. Effects of temperatures and loading form on the fatigue damage mechanism were preliminarily discussed. A modified Palmgren‐Miner rule and semiempirical fatigue equations were proposed and proved effective.
A meta‐analysis of temperature sensitivity as a microbial trait
Authors: Alster Charlotte J. , Weller Zachary D. , von Fischer Joseph C.
Published: June 2018

Traits‐based approaches in microbial ecology provide a valuable way to abstract organismal interaction with the environment and to generate hypotheses about community function. Using macromolecular rate theory (MMRT), we recently identified that temperature sensitivity can be characterized as a distinct microbial trait. As temperature is fundamental in controlling biological reactions, variation in temperature sensitivity across communities, organisms, and processes has the potential to vastly improve understanding of microbial response to climate change. These microbial temperature sensitivity traits include the heat capacity (), temperature optimum (Topt), and point of maximum temperature sensitivity (TSmax), each of which provide unique insights about organismal response to changes in temperature. In this meta‐analysis, we analyzed the distribution of these temperature sensitivity traits from bacteria, fungi, and mixed communities across a variety of biological systems (e.g., soils, oceans, foods, wastewater treatment plants) in order to identify commonalities in temperature responses across these diverse organisms and reaction rates. Our analysis of temperature sensitivity traits from over 350 temperature response curves reveals a wide distribution of temperature sensitivity traits, with Topt and TSmax well within biological relevant temperatures. We find that traits vary significantly depending on organism type, microbial diversity, source environment, and biological process, with higher temperature sensitivity found in fungi than bacteria and in less diverse systems. Carbon dioxide production was found to be less temperature sensitive than denitrification, suggesting that changes in temperature will have a potentially larger impact on nitrogen‐related processes. As climate changes, these results have important implications for basic understanding of the temperature sensitivity of biological reactions and for ecological understanding of species’ trait distributions, as well as for improved treatment of temperature sensitivity in models.
Thoughts on a Fiscal Union in EMU
Authors: Gadatsch Niklas , Hollmayr Josef , Stähler Nikolai
Published: June 2018

Using an estimated large-scale New Keynesian model, we assess the consequences of introducing a fiscal union within EMU. We differentiate between three different scenarios: public revenue equalisation, tax harmonisation and a centralised fiscal authority. Our results indicate that no country would significantly benefit from introducing any form of fiscal union. Comparing long-term, that is, steady state, effects we have winners and losers depending on the scenario. Differences in terms of business cycle statistics as well as in terms of risk sharing of asymmetric shocks are minor. This also explains why welfare differences are small across the fiscal union scenarios. A counterfactual exercise indicates that with a fiscal union regime already installed at the start of EMU, key macroeconomic variables would have reacted very similarly while debt dynamics would have changed notably.
Chlorophyll fluorescence and biomass of four cassava genotypes grown under rain‐fed upper paddy field conditions in the tropics
Authors: Sawatraksa Nateetip , Banterng Poramate , Jogloy Sanun , Vorasoot Nimitr , Hoogenboom Gerrit
Published: June 2018

Expanding the area under cultivation and increasing the productivity are two solutions to fulfil the high cassava demand. The objective was to determine the quantum efficiency of photochemistry, relative water content (RWC), growth and biomass of four cassava genotypes grown under rain‐fed upper paddy field conditions. The four cassava genotypes (Kasetsart 50, Rayong 9, Rayong 11 and CMR38–125–77) were evaluated under three environments in rain‐fed upper paddy field conditions in the Khon Kaen province, Thailand, between 2015 and 2017. The experiment used a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications. Data recorded were soil characteristics prior to planting, soil moisture, leaf RWC, chlorophyll fluorescence under natural light () and artificial dark (Fv/Fm) conditions, total dry weight (TDW), storage root dry weight (SRDW), starch yield and weather data during crop duration. The results from combined analysis indicated that the growing environment had a greater effect than genotypes for RWC (except for RWC at 90 days after planting (DAP), , Fv/Fm, TDW (except for TDW at 150 DAP), SRDW (except for SRDW at 150 DAP) and starch yield. There were significant interactions between genotypes and environments for TDW, SRDW and starch yield. CMR38–125–77 was the superior genotype for growing under rain‐fed upper paddy field conditions when compared to the other three cassava genotypes. This study also showed the possibility of using and Fv/Fm as criteria to improve the efficiency for cassava varietal selection.
The “friend of zone of proximal development” role: ePortfolios as boundary objects
Authors: Impedovo M.A. , Ligorio M.B. , McLay K.F.
Published: June 2018

This research investigates how a role called "friend of zone of proximal development" (ZPD), assigned to one student in a peer partnership, supports the transition from university to professional life. Two near‐identical blended courses are compared. In Course 1 (6 F, 3 M), the friend of ZPD role was introduced into the ePortfolio structure. In Course 2 (6 F, 3 M), this role was not introduced. Students taking up the "friend of ZPD" role offered comments and advice. A total of 790 notes, posted by 9 students (average age: 24) for each course, were analysed. Through a quantitative analysis of the notes, we identify 3 emerging identity positions: I‐as‐university learner; I‐as‐informal learner; and I‐as‐future professional. Course 1 registered a higher number of identity positions, and the I‐as‐future‐professional position was the most frequent. Further, sudents who predominantly took up the I‐as‐university‐learner position had the lowest grades. Findings suggest that a poor projection towards the profession may compromise student learning outcomes.
Increased risk of mortality in systemic sclerosis‐associated digital ulcers: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Meunier P. , Dequidt L. , Barnetche T. , Lazaro E. , Duffau P. , Richez C. , Couzi L. , Truchetet M.‐E. , Seneschal J. ,   the FHU ACRONIM
Published: June 2018

Background

Survival can be threatened in certain forms of systemic sclerosis (SSc) so clear prognostic factors are needed.

Objectives

The aim of this meta‐analysis was to assess the association between the presence of digital ulcers (DUs) and mortality in SSc.

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis in the Pubmed and Scopus databases from the earliest records to May 2017. Two research strategies were performed: « systemic sclerosis » and « digital ulcers » (strategy A); « systemic sclerosis » and « mortality » (strategy B). The primary outcome was the mortality associated with the presence of DUs in patients with SSc.

Results

The literature search identified 1473 citations. Fifty‐nine studies were examined for full text. Ten articles were included for the meta‐analysis. SSc patients with DUs had an increased pooled mortality risk: RR = 1.53 (IC 95%: [1.23–1.90]).

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis revealed a higher mortality in SSc patients with associated DUs. Having DUs may be a predictive factor of developing organ involvement such as pulmonary or cardiovascular events that could be associated with poor survival. It suggests that early screening of DUs in SSc patients is important to identify patients most at risk of poor survival.
CD34 stromal expression is inversely proportional to smooth muscle actin expression and extent of morphea
Authors: Lee J.S. , Park H.S. , Yoon H.S. , Chung J.H. , Cho S.
Published: June 2018

Background

Fibrosis is thought to be the main pathophysiology of scleroderma, and myofibroblasts play the main role in abnormal fibrotic pathologies. Altered distribution of dermal dendritic cells (DDCs) and vascular abnormalities has been reported to relate to the pathogenesis of scleroderma.

Objective

To investigate fibrotic pathogenesis of morphea (localized scleroderma) by demonstrating the relative expression and distribution of DDCs and myofibroblasts, we performed immunohistochemical stains using several relevant antibodies.

Methods

Skin lesions of 50 patients with morphea and age‐, sex‐ and site‐matched normal skin of 50 subjects were evaluated for the following antibodies: CD34, factor XIIIa (FXIIIa), smooth muscle actin (SMA), CD31 and vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1).

Results

CD34 stromal stain was significantly lower in patients than controls (P = 0.000), while FXIIIa, SMA and VCAM‐1 stains were significantly higher in patients than controls (P = 0.043, P = 0.000 and P = 0.027, respectively). In subtype analysis within patients, CD34 stromal stain showed decreasing trends with increasing disease extent and increasing fibrosis, respectively. CD34 stromal stain showed an inverse correlation and mutually exclusive spatial expression pattern with SMA stain (r = −0.286, P = 0.044). The inverse relationship was maintained in each dermal layer analysis, upper and lower dermis (r = −0.397, P = 0.004 and r = −0.281, P = 0.048, respectively).

Conclusions

Mutually exclusive staining patterns of CD34 stromal and SMA stains suggest a phenotypic change of CD34+ DDCs into SMA+ myofibroblasts with increasing disease extent and fibrosis in morphea. Degree of loss of CD34+ DDCs can be a useful marker in predicting the extent and severity of morphea.
Repeating measurements by transient elastography in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease patients with high liver stiffness
Authors: Chow Jeremy Chak‐Lun , Wong Grace Lai‐Hung , Chan Anthony Wing‐Hung , Shu Sally She‐Ting , Chan Carmen Ka‐Man , Leung Julie Ka‐Yu , Choi Paul Cheung‐Lung , Chim Angel Mei‐Ling , Chan Henry Lik‐Yuen , Wong Vincent Wai‐Sun
Published: June 2018

Background and Aim

The Baveno VI Consensus recommends repeating examination in patients with high liver stiffness measurement (LSM) by transient elastography to reduce false‐positive diagnosis of advanced liver disease. We tested whether repeating transient elastography can increase the overall diagnostic accuracy.

Methods

Ninety‐seven patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease who underwent two FibroScan examinations within 6 months prior to liver biopsy were evaluated. An LSM cut‐off of 7.9 kPa was used to exclude F3‐4 fibrosis.

Results

Seventy‐eight patients had high LSM at baseline, among whom 27 had low LSM on repeated testing; only four had F3 and none had cirrhosis. In contrast, 31 of 51 patients with high LSM at both examinations had F3‐4. Nineteen patients had low LSM at baseline; none of them had F3‐4 regardless of the second LSM results. If we took LSM <7.9 kPa at either examination as sufficient to exclude F3‐4, the negative predictive value remained high at 91%. The positive predictive value for F3‐4 increased from 45% in patients with high LSM at baseline to 61% in those with high LSM at both examinations. Sensitivity analysis using different cut‐offs yielded similar results, with 76% of patients with LSM >12 kPa at both examinations having F3‐4.

Conclusions

Transient elastography is a highly sensitive screening test to exclude F3‐4 fibrosis in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease patients. One‐third of patients with high LSM may have normal results on repeated examination. By repeating examination in cases with high LSM, one may spare patients from unnecessary liver biopsy.
Workplace learning and career progression: qualitative perspectives of UK dietitians
Authors: Boocock R. C. , O'Rourke R. K.
Published: June 2018

Background

Post‐graduate education and continuous professional development (CPD) within dietetics lack clearly defined pathways. The current literature primarily focuses on new graduate perceptions of workplace learning (WPL). The present study raises issues of how CPD is sustained throughout a National Health Service (NHS) career, how informal learning might be made more visible and whether the workplace withholds learning opportunities.

Methods

Qualified dietitians participated in focus groups (n = 32) and a nominal group technique (n = 24). Data from audio recordings were transcribed and triangulated. Thematic analysis took an interpretative approach.

Results

One size for WPL for dietetics and, likely, other allied health professionals (AHPs) did not meet the learning needs of everyone. The informal implicit learning affordances often went unrecognised. A greater emphasis on teaching, picking up on the strong preference for discussion with others voiced in the present study, may improve recognition of all WPL opportunities. Better scaffolding or guided support of entry level dietitians may ease the transition from study to workplace and challenge any perception of ‘clipped wings’. Where development and career progression proves difficult for experienced dietitians, mentoring or stepping outside the NHS may revitalise by providing new communities of practice.

Conclusions

WPL cannot be understood as a unitary concept. Dietitians engage with WPL differently across their careers. Future visions of WPL, especially explicit post‐graduate career and education frameworks, must accommodate these differences to retain the highest calibre dietitians. The implications of a period of learning ‘maintenance’ rather than CPD among experienced dietitians offers a topic for further research, particularly as the workforce ages.
Theory‐informed nutrition education curriculum Tools For Feeling Good promotes healthy eating patterns among fifth grade pupils: cross‐sectional study
Authors: Tilles‐Tirkkonen T. , Nuutinen O. , Sinikallio S. , Poutanen K. , Karhunen L.
Published: June 2018

Background

The eating patterns of school‐aged children rarely meet recommendations: meal frequency is irregular and the consumption of vegetables is lower and sugar‐sweetened products higher than recommended. Although school is an excellent arena for nutrition education to support pupils eating patterns, teachers usually lack efficient tools. The present study aimed to develop a curriculum for nutrition education to be used by teachers and to examine its efficacy in the school environment with respect to the eating patterns of pupils.

Methods

The curriculum was developed in collaboration with school teachers using self‐determination theory as a theoretical standpoint. The Health at Every Size concept and sensory‐based food education were utilised in the curriculum. Self‐reported questionnaires were used to assess the feasibility and impact of the curriculum. Fourteen teachers implemented the curriculum during 2012–2013 with 194 pupils aged 10–13 years (fifth and sixth grades). The control schools included 140 pupils of the same age not following the curriculum.

Results

The teachers reported that the curriculum was easy to integrate in the school environment. The fifth graders improved their breakfast frequency, increased their consumption of vegetables and reduced their consumption of ice cream, sweets and sugar‐sweetened drinks. No improvement was found in the fifth graders at the control schools. In the sixth graders, no dietary changes were detected in the intervention or control schools.

Conclusions

The pupils in the fifth grade appeared to comprise a responsive target group for nutrition education at schools. The curriculum offers a promising approach for developing healthy eating patterns among fifth graders. Collaboration with teachers in developing the curriculum likely enhanced its feasibility and teacher commitment for implementation.
Plasma levels of the proprotein convertase furin and incidence of diabetes and mortality
Authors: Fernandez C. , Rysä J. , Almgren P. , Nilsson J. , Engström G. , Orho‐Melander M. , Ruskoaho H. , Melander O.
Published: June 2018

Background

Diabetes mellitus is linked to premature mortality of virtually all causes. Furin is a proprotein convertase broadly involved in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis; however, little is known about its role in the development of diabetes mellitus and risk of premature mortality.

Objectives

To test if fasting plasma concentration of furin is associated with the development of diabetes mellitus and mortality.

Methods

Overnight fasted plasma furin levels were measured at baseline examination in 4678 individuals from the population‐based prospective Malmö Diet and Cancer Study. We studied the relation of plasma furin levels with metabolic and hemodynamic traits. We used multivariable Cox proportional hazards models to investigate the association between baseline plasma furin levels and incidence of diabetes mellitus and mortality during 21.3–21.7 years follow‐up.

Results

An association was observed between quartiles of furin concentration at baseline and body mass index, blood pressure and plasma concentration of glucose, insulin, LDL and HDL cholesterol (|0.11| ≤ β ≤ |0.31|, P < 0.001). Plasma furin (hazard ratio [HR] per one standard deviation increment of furin) was predictive of future diabetes mellitus (727 events; HR = 1.24, CI = 1.14–1.36, P < 0.001) after adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, use of antihypertensive treatment, alcohol intake and fasting plasma level of glucose, insulin and lipoproteins cholesterol. Furin was also independently related to the risk of all‐cause mortality (1229 events; HR = 1.12, CI = 1.05–1.19, P = 0.001) after full multivariable adjustment.

Conclusion

Individuals with high plasma furin concentration have a pronounced dysmetabolic phenotype and elevated risk of diabetes mellitus and premature mortality.
Does vitamin D and phenylbutyrate have impact on the course of tuberculosis?
Authors: Wejse Christian
Published: June 2018

Click here to view the Original article by Dr. Bekele et al.
Single puncture versus standard double needle arthrocentesis for the management of temporomandibular joint disorders: A systematic review
Authors: Nagori S. A. , Roy Chowdhury S. K. , Thukral H. , Jose A. , Roychoudhury A.
Published: June 2018

The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the current evidence in order to assess the efficacy of single puncture arthrocentesis vs standard double needle arthrocentesis in the management of temporomandibular joint(TMJ) disorders. An electronic search of the PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane CENTRAL and Google Scholar databases was performed to identify English studies published up until October 2017. Eligible studies were selected based on inclusion criteria and included randomised controlled trials(RCTs) comparing single puncture arthrocentesis and standard double needle arthrocentesis for the management TMJ disorders. The initial screening identified 984 records, of which only 5 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. A high degree of heterogeneity was found in the 5 studies with each reporting different sample selection and arthrocentesis protocol. All 5 studies reported no difference in reduction in pain intensity and improvement in maximal mouth opening between the single puncture technique and standard double needle technique. This review provides some evidence that single puncture arthrocentesis is clinically as efficacious as standard double needle arthrocentesis. There is a need of well‐designed RCT with standard protocol of arthrocentesis comparing different single puncture techniques and standard double needle technique for the management of TMJ disorders.
Budget flexibility, government spending, and welfare
Authors: Yaşar Sezer
Published: June 2018

A growing literature in economics provides a theory of budget negotiations relying on Baron and Ferejohn's legislative‐bargaining approach. This literature assumes that legislators decide on all dimensions of government spending once and for all in a period during budget negotiations. However, legislators leave allocation decision of some funds to the executive authority and let it adjust government spending according to changing priorities in a year under certain restrictions. In this paper, the author develops a legislative‐bargaining model to investigate the effects of budget flexibility on government spending and welfare. In addition, he analyzes how legislators choose the level of flexibility. He shows that, if legislators decide on all dimensions of government spending, high polarization leads to greater government spending. However, if the executive authority allocates government resources, high polarization leads to lower government spending. Besides, when the executive authority allocates government resources under high polarization, legislators cannot use their political power to induce overprovision of their preferred public good. When legislators can choose the level of budget flexibility, if the probability of polarization is high they prefer to control all dimensions of government spending. The author shows that budget flexibility benefits society only under high probability of polarization.
The potential for dispersal of microalgal resting cysts by migratory birds
Authors: Tesson Sylvie V. M. , Weißbach Astrid , Kremp Anke , Lindström Åke , Rengefors Karin
Published: June 2018

Most microalgal species are geographically widespread, but little is known about how they are dispersed. One potential mechanism for long‐distance dispersal is through birds, which may transport cells internally (endozoochory) and deposit them during, or in‐between, their migratory stopovers. We hypothesize that dinoflagellates, in particular resting stages, can tolerate bird digestion; that bird temperature, acidity, and retention time negatively affect dinoflagellate viability; and that recovered cysts can germinate after passage through the birds’ gut, contributing to species‐specific dispersal of the dinoflagellates across scales. Tolerance of two dinoflagellate species (Peridiniopsis borgei, a warm‐water species andApocalathium malmogiense, a cold‐water species) to Mallard gut passage was investigated using in vitro experiments simulating the gizzard and caeca conditions. The effect of in vitro digestion and retention time on cell integrity, cell viability, and germination capacity of the dinoflagellate species was examined targeting both their vegetative and resting stages. Resting stages (cysts) of both species were able to survive simulated bird gut passage, even if their survival rate and germination were negatively affected by exposure to acidic condition and bird internal temperature. Cysts ofA. malmogiensewere more sensitive thanP. borgeito treatments and to the presence of digestive enzymes. Vegetative cells did not survive conditions of bird internal temperature and formed pellicle cysts when exposed to gizzard‐like acid conditions. We show that dinoflagellate resting cysts serve as dispersal propagules through migratory birds. Assuming a retention time of viable cysts of 2–12 h to duck stomach conditions, cysts could be dispersed 150–800 km and beyond.
Comparative assessment of the Euglena gracilis var. saccharophila variant strain as a producer of the β‐1,3‐glucan paramylon under varying light conditions
Authors: Sun Angela , Hasan Mafruha Tasnin , Hobba Graham , Nevalainen Helena , Te'o Junior
Published: June 2018

Euglena gracilis Z and a “sugar loving” variant strain E. gracilis var. saccharophila were investigated as producers of paramylon, a β‐1,3‐glucan polysaccharide with potential medicinal and industrial applications. The strains were grown under diurnal or dark growth conditions on a glucose–yeast extract medium supporting high‐level paramylon production. Both strains produced the highest paramylon yields (7.4–8 g · L−1, respectively) while grown in the dark, but the maximum yield was achieved faster by E. gracilis var. saccharophila (48 h vs. 72 h). The glucose‐to‐paramylon yield coefficient Ypar/glu = 0.46 ± 0.03 in the E. gracilis var. saccharophila cultivation, obtained in this study, is the highest reported to date. Proteomic analysis of the metabolic pathways provided molecular clues for the strain behavior observed during cultivation. For example, overexpression of enzymes in the gluconeogenesis/glycolysis pathways including fructokinase‐1 and chloroplastic fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase (FBP) may have contributed to the faster rate of paramylon accumulation in E. gracilis var. saccharophila. Differentially expressed proteins in the early steps of chloroplastogenesis pathway including plastid uroporphyrinogen decarboxylases, photoreceptors, and a highly abundant (68‐fold increase) plastid transketolase may have provided the E. gracilis var. saccharophila strain an advantage in paramylon production during diurnal cultivations. In conclusion, the variant strain E. gracilis var. saccharophila seems to be well suited for producing large amounts of paramylon. This work has also resulted in the identification of molecular targets for future improvement of paramylon production in E. gracilis, including the FBP and phosophofructokinase 1, the latter being a key regulator of glycolysis.
Common Breaks in Means for Cross‐Correlated Fixed‐T Panel Data
Authors: Westerlund Joakim
Published: June 2018

This note considers a panel data model in which the variable of interest has undergone a common structural break in the mean. The object of interest is the unknown breakpoint. The challenge is to device an estimator that is consistent when the data are cross‐correlated and the number of time periods T is fixed and cannot be increased without bound. The proposed solution involves taking an already existing estimator initially proposed for cross‐section uncorrelated panels and applying it to defactored data. Consistency is established as the number of cross‐section units N grows large, and is verified in small samples using Monte Carlo simulation.
Cation distribution in orthopyroxenes from São João Nepomuceno iron meteorite inferred from 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy: Implications for thermal history and origin of IVA parent body
Authors: Dos Santos Edivaldo , Scorzelli Rosa B. , Varela Maria E.
Published: June 2018

São João Nepomuceno (SJN) is an IVA iron meteorite, found in Minas Gerais state (Brazil) in 1960, that consists of Fe‐Ni metal matrix and coarse‐grained silicate inclusions. In spite of the extensive work performed on the IVA irons, there is still no consensus about their origin and thermal history. Their particular chemistry and range in metallographic cooling rates are difficult to explain using conventional models. Furthermore, metal–silicate mixing of the IVA group remains a complex issue. In this work, the 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy was applied for measuring the intracrystalline Fe‐Mg distribution in orthopyroxenes extracted from SJN. The Mössbauer data associated with Ganguly's cooling rate numerical model were used to investigate the thermal history of SJN meteorite. The results are the background for discussions about the IVA formation models, aiming to improve the understanding of the origin of IVA iron meteorite group.
Child nutritional status among births exceeding ideal family size in a high fertility population
Authors: Costa Megan E. , Trumble Benjamin , Kaplan Hillard , Gurven Michael D.
Published: June 2018

Ideal family size (IFS) is measured in social surveys to indicate unmet need for contraception and impending shifts in fertility behaviour. Whether exceeding IFS affects parental behaviour in ways that result in lower investments in child nutrition, well‐being, and educational attainment is not known. This study examines parental IFS and the association between exceeding stated ideals and child nutritional status in a high‐fertility, high‐mortality population in the Bolivian Amazon. Height‐for‐age z‐scores, weight‐for‐age z‐scores, weight‐for‐height z‐scores, stunting, haemoglobin, and anaemia status in 638 children aged 0–5 years are predicted as a function of birth order in relation to parental IFS, adjusting for household characteristics and mother and child random effects. Children of birth orders above paternal IFS experience higher weight‐for‐age z‐scores when living further away from the market town of San Borja, consistent with underlying motivations for higher IFS and lower human capital investment in children in more remote areas (β = .009, p = .027). Overall, we find no statistical evidence that birth orders in excess of parental ideals are associated with compromised child nutrition below age 2, a period of intensive breastfeeding in this population. Despite a vulnerability to nutritional deficiencies postweaning for children age 2–5, there was no association between birth order in excess of parental ideals and lower nutritional status. Further studies examining this association at various stages of the fertility transition will elucidate whether reported ideal or optimal family sizes are flexible as trade‐offs between quality and quantity of children shift during the transition to lower fertility.
Nitrogen and phosphate metabolism in ectomycorrhizas
Authors: Nehls Uwe , Plassard Claude
Published: June 2018

Summary1047I.Introduction1047II.Mobilization of soil N/P by ECM fungi1048III.N/P uptake1048IV.N/P assimilation1049V.N/P storage and remobilization1049VI.Hyphal N/P efflux at the plant–fungus interface1052VII.Conclusion and research needs1054Acknowledgements1055References1055

Nutrient homeostasis is essential for fungal cells and thus tightly adapted to the local demand in a mycelium with hyphal specialization. Based on selected ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungal models, we outlined current concepts of nitrogen and phosphate nutrition and their limitations, and included knowledge from Baker's yeast when major gaps had to be filled. We covered the entire pathway from nutrient mobilization, import and local storage, distribution within the mycelium and export at the plant–fungus interface. Even when nutrient import and assimilation were broad issues forECMfungi, we focused mainly on nitrate and organic phosphorus uptake, as other nitrogen/phosphorus (N/P) sources have been covered by recent reviews. Vacuolar N/P storage and mobilization represented another focus point of this review. Vacuoles are integrated into cellular homeostasis and central for anECMmycelium at two locations: soil‐growing hyphae and hyphae of the plant–fungus interface. Vacuoles are also involved in long‐distance transport. We further discussed potential mechanisms of bidirectional long‐distance nutrient transport (distances from millimetres to metres). A final focus of the review was N/P export at the plant–fungus interface, where we compared potential efflux mechanisms and pathways, and discussed their prerequisites.
The esophagiome: integrated anatomical, mechanical, and physiological analysis of the esophago‐gastric segment
Authors: Zhao Jingbo , McMahon Barry , Fox Mark , Gregersen Hans
Published: June 2018

Esophageal diseases are highly prevalent and carry significant socioeconomic burden. Despite the apparently simple function of the esophagus, we still struggle to better understand its physiology and pathophysiology. The assessment of large data sets and application of multiscale mathematical organ models have gained attention as part of the Physiome Project. This has long been recognized in cardiology but has only recently gained attention for the gastrointestinal(GI) tract. The term “esophagiome” implies a holistic assessment of esophageal function, from cellular and muscle physiology to the mechanical responses that transport and mix fluid contents. These anatomical, mechanical, and physiological models underlie the development of a “virtual esophagus” modeling framework to characterize and analyze function and disease. Functional models incorporate anatomical details with sensory–motor responses, especially related to biomechanical functions such as bolus transport. Our review builds on previous reviews and focuses on assessment of detailed anatomical and geometric data using advanced imaging technology for evaluation of gastro‐esophageal reflux disease (GERD), and on esophageal mechanophysiology assessed using technologies that distend the esophagus. Integration of mechanics‐ and physiology‐based analysis is a useful characteristic of the esophagiome. Experimental data on pressures and geometric characteristics are useful for the validation of mathematical and computer models of the esophagus that may provide predictions of novel endoscopic, surgical, and pharmaceutical treatment options.
Deficiency of BrpA in Streptococcus mutans reduces virulence in rat caries model
Authors: Wen Zezhang T. , Scott‐Anne Kathleen , Liao Sumei , De Arpan , Luo Meng , Kovacs Christopher , Narvaez Brendaliz S. , Faustoferri Roberta C. , Yu Qingzhao , Taylor Christopher M. , Quivey Robert G.
Published: June 2018

Our recent studies have shown that BrpA in Streptococcus mutans plays a critical role in cell envelope biogenesis, stress responses, and biofilm formation. In this study, a 10‐species consortium was used to assess how BrpA deficiency influences the establishment, persistence, and competitiveness of S. mutans during growth in a community under conditions typical of the oral cavity. Results showed that, like the wild‐type, the brpA mutant was able to colonize and establish on the surfaces tested. Relative to the wild‐type, however, the brpA mutant had a reduced ability to persist and grow in the 10‐species consortium (P < .001). A rat caries model was also used to examine the effect of BrpA, as well as Psr, a BrpA paralog, on S. mutans cariogenicity. The results showed no major differences in infectivity between the wild‐type and the brpA and psr mutants. Unlike the wild‐type, however, infection with the brpA mutant, but not the psr mutant, showed no significant differences in both total numbers of carious lesions and caries severity, compared with the control group that received bacterial growth medium (P > .05). Metagenomic and quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that S. mutans infection caused major alterations in the composition of the rats’ plaque microbiota and that significantly less S. mutans was identified in the rats infected with the brpA mutant compared with those infected with the wild‐type and the psr mutant. These results further suggest that BrpA plays a critical role in S. mutans pathophysiology and that BrpA has potential as a therapeutic target in the modulation of S. mutans virulence.
Kant's Critique of Instrumental Reason
Authors: Kohl Markus
Published: June 2018

I argue against the prevalent view that in addition to the categorical imperative of morality, Kant accepts a further law of practical reason, ‘the’ Hypothetical Imperative. Kant rejects the idea that instrumental reason can be a source ofa priori, objectively necessary normative requirements. His critique of instrumental reason is a central component of his argument for the supreme rational authority of morality: only moral reason can provide genuine, objective normative‐practical necessities. There are no objective practical necessities in our pursuit of empirical ends and desires. Hence, non‐moral agency is a rationally impoverished form of agency.
Epidemiology and outcomes of pretransplant methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus Aureus screening in pediatric solid organ transplant candidates
Authors: Paulsen Grant , Blum Samantha , Danziger‐Isakov Lara
Published: June 2018

MRSA infection following SOT is an important cause of morbidity and mortality, but epidemiology and risk factors for colonization prior to pediatric SOT remain unclear. A retrospective cohort of SOT patients ≤21 years of age from 2009 to 2014 was evaluated. Demographics, MRSA screens, timing of transplantation, and MRSA infection were abstracted. From 2013 to 2014, 130 SOT candidates were screened or had known prior MRSA infection. Seventeen patients (13%) were MRSA colonized. Liver transplant candidates were least likely to be colonized (OR 0.22, CI:0.06‐0.81, P = .02); greatest risk of colonization was in lung (OR 18.7, CI:1.9‐182.3, P = .03), abdominal multivisceral (OR 7.5, CI:1.5‐38.6, P = .02), and cardiac patients with history of cardiothoracic surgery (OR 8.0, CI:1.7‐36.0, P = .007). In univariable analysis, African American patients were more likely to be colonized (OR 7.1, CI:2.49‐19.41, P = .0005). There were 3 early MRSA infections in screened patients, incidence of 3.9%; only one in a colonized patient. Thirteen percent of screened pediatric SOT candidates were MRSA colonized, with greatest risk in lung, multivisceral and cardiac patients with prior cardiothoracic surgery. Early MRSA infection occurred in 3.9% of transplanted patients. Cardiothoracic and multivisceral organ transplant candidates may benefit the most from targeted MRSA screening.
The impact of expanded health insurance coverage for unauthorized pregnant women on prenatal care utilization
Authors: Atkins Danielle N. , Held Mary L. , Lindley Lisa C.
Published: June 2018

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of expanding Medicaid health insurance coverage for unauthorized women on prenatal care utilization.

Design and Sample

A natural experiment design was used. We examined the prenatal care utilization of 20,876 unauthorized women from Nebraska, which expanded Medicaid coverage for unauthorized women, and South Carolina, which has never expanded coverage.

Measures

Measurements of prenatal care utilization included adequate prenatal care using the Kotelchuck Index and the number of prenatal care visits. The policy independent variable of interest was an interaction between the policy years (2007–2009) and Nebraska residence. Demographic characteristics were included as covariates. Analysis entailed a difference‐in‐difference approach to compare prenatal care utilization by state, both before and after legislation was passed to fund care among unauthorized women in Nebraska.

Results

Women with insurance coverage were more likely to utilize prenatal services. Unauthorized women living in Nebraska during Medicaid expansion were 28% more likely to receive adequate prenatal care (OR = 1.28, p < 0.01) and had about one more prenatal care visit (IRR = 1.05, p < 0.01) than women who did not have expanded Medicaid coverage.

Conclusions

Findings have important public health policy implications to support improved birth outcomes among native‐born infants of unauthorized women.
T‐cell tolerance as a potential effect of congenital leishmaniasis on offspring immunity
Authors: Galindo‐Sevilla N. , Mancilla‐Ramírez J.
Published: June 2018

Congenital transmission of leishmaniasis is recognized in cases detected by passive surveillance. Most cases are from low‐resource countries, limiting the study of several important aspects of this route of infection, including the offspring's immune response. Studies on natural and experimentally infected animals suggest that parasites might be transmitted to the embryo or foetus at any time during pregnancy. As immune system undergoes sequential stages of development, an infection before the time of self‐recognition could lead to central tolerance, making an individual specifically tolerant and susceptible to infection. In the alternative scenario, infection after self‐recognition would allow the proper development of T‐lymphocyte clones in response to Leishmania antigens, providing resistance to the disease. Newborns undergo a transient period of low expression of several immune surface molecules and a naïve adaptive immune response with no memory, which together might contribute to slow elimination of the parasite over several months. This insight is a proposed independent mechanism of the previously proven T‐cell exhaustion and must be investigated. Analyses of infected placenta, cord blood and infant immunity are required for a better understanding of immunity in congenital leishmaniasis infection.
Gibberellins modulate auxin responses during tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) fruit development
Authors: Mignolli Francesco , Vidoz Maria L. , Picciarelli Piero , Mariotti Lorenzo
Published: June 2018

In tomato, auxin and gibberellins (GAs) interact with each other to drive fruit growth and development. While the role of auxin in directing GA biosynthesis and signal is already known, very little information has been obtained about GA‐mediated control of auxin signalling and response. Interestingly, we show that gibberellic acid (GA3) is able to modify the expression of several auxin signalling genes in the partial auxin‐insensitive diageotropica (dgt) mutant, suggesting that GAs may override the control of DGT on auxin signal. Procera (pro) mutation, which confers a constitutively active GA signal, enhances the effects of exogenous auxin, indicating that PRO may act as a negative effector of auxin responses in fruits. Indeed, transcript modulation of some auxin/indole acetic acid and auxin response factor genes in auxin‐treated dgt/pro fruits suggests that PRO controls their expression possibly bypassing DGT. It was also shown that GA biosynthesis, in response to auxin treatment, is largely controlled by DGT. It is therefore conceivable that the DGT‐mediated increase of active GAs in auxin‐treated or pollinated fruits would promote PRO degradation, which in turn activates part of the auxin signalling cascade.
Label‐free proteome of water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) seminal plasma
Authors: Brito Mayara F. , Auler Patrícia A. , Tavares Guilherme C. , Rezende Cristiana P. , Almeida Gabriel M. F. , Pereira Felipe L. , Leal Carlos A. G. , Moura Arlindo de Alencar , Figueiredo Henrique C. P. , Henry Marc
Published: June 2018

The study aimed to describe the Bubalus bubalis seminal plasma proteome using a label‐free shotgun UDMSE approach. A total of 859 nonredundant proteins were identified across five biological replicates with stringent identification. Proteins specifically related to sperm maturation and protection, capacitation, fertilization and metabolic activity were detected in the buffalo seminal fluid. In conclusion, we provide a comprehensive proteomic profile of buffalo seminal plasma, which establishes a foundation for further studies designed to understand regulation of sperm function and discovery of novel biomarkers for fertility. MS data are available in the ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD003728.
Guideline relevance, diagnostic uncertainty, fear and hierarchy: Intersecting barriers to antibiotic optimization in respiratory infections
Authors: Broom Jennifer , Broom Alex
Published: June 2018

Watch the video abstract
Systemic sclerosis‐associated interstitial lung disease: Role of the oesophagus in outcomes
Authors: Strek Mary E.
Published: June 2018

See related Article
Red blood cell transfusion and outcomes in acute pulmonary embolism: A response
Authors: Wong Christopher , Ng Austin Chin Chwan , Kritharides Leonard
Published: June 2018

See related Article

See related Editorial