bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accounting for financial instruments with characteristics of debt and equity: finding a way forward
Authors: Fargher Neil , Sidhu Baljit K. , Tarca Ann , van Zyl Warrick
Published: August 2018

Accounting for compound financial instruments, that is those with characteristics of both debt and equity, has challenged accounting standard setters for decades. The principles developed to distinguish liabilities and equity and the application of these principles in IAS 32 have been widely criticised. In 2016–2017, the IASB was engaged in a project to improve IAS 32. Our study presents research that is relevant to the issues faced by standard setters, related to improving the definitions and enhancing presentation and disclosure of liabilities and equity. We discuss studies investigating the effects of the accounting classification requirements on firms’ financing choices and on users’ decision‐making, to examine the question, ‘Does the distinction matter?’ We then explore various approaches that may be pursued by the standard setters to improve accounting in this area and identify areas for future research.
Quantitative analysis of apically extruded bacteria following preparation of curved canals with three systems
Authors: Cabreira Laura J. , Gominho Luciana F. , Rôças Isabela N. , Dessaune‐Neto Nilton , Siqueira José F. , Alves Flávio R.
Published: August 2018

This study compared the amount of apically extruded bacteria following preparation of curved root canals using two continuously rotating multifile and one reciprocating single‐file systems. Mesiobuccal canals from maxillary molars were contaminated with Enterococcus faecalis and divided into three groups according to the instrumentation system: Reciproc (R25 instrument, 25/.08), BT‐RaCe (10/.06, 35/.00 and 35/.04), and Mtwo (25/.06, 30/.05 and 35/.04). Apically extruded material was collected by a customized apparatus with 1.5% agarose gel covering the root apex to simulate the periradicular tissues. The extruded material was extracted from the gel and subjected to bacteriological culture for bacterial quantification. The three systems showed a high frequency of bacterial extrusion (>70%). There were no statistically significant differences in the counts of extruded bacteria between groups (P > 0.05). The incidence and amount of apical bacterial extrusion were similar between the three systems. The customized apparatus was effective in collecting apically extruded bacteria.
External invasive resorption: Case report of a rapidly progressive process in an impacted maxillary canine during orthodontic treatment
Authors: Shemesh Avi , Birnboim‐Blau Galit , Zoizner Ronen , Itzhak Joe Ben , Solomonov Michael
Published: August 2018

External invasive resorption (EIR) is a type of external resorption that can involve the coronal, middle and apical parts of the root in its advanced stages and results in progressive loss of tooth structure. Common potential predisposing factors for EIR are orthodontic treatment and trauma. The EIR progression rate has not been described previously. This case report describes rapidly progressive EIR in an impacted maxillary canine after surgical exposure and application of directional orthodontic traction over 8 months. The article discusses the etiologies of EIR, the possible reasons for EIR and its rapid progression in the presented case and proposes a new theory of the connection between EIR and tooth impaction.
What do we know about the pharmacotheraputic management of insomnia in cannabis withdrawal: A systematic review
Authors: Zhand Naista , Milin Robert
Published: August 2018

Background and Objectives

Sleep disturbance is one of the hallmarks of cannabis withdrawal. Studies have indicated that treatment of this key symptom may facilitate abstinence. In the present paper we aim to provide a systematic review of the extant literature on pharmacological management of sleep disturbance associated with cannabis withdrawal.

Method

We conducted a systematic literature search across five electronic databases including PubMed, Psycinfo, MEDLINE, Cochrane review and Embase. Human studies using a pharmacological treatment for sleep disturbances associated with cannabis withdrawal were included. Review articles, case‐series, open trials, posters, and editorials were excluded.

Results

Seventeen publications, involving 562 participants, were included in this review. Major limitations involved small sample size, high dropout rate, methodological limitations, and heterogeneity of participants. Most of the studies were at high risk of bias, further downgrading the level of evidence. A meta‐analysis was not performed due to lack of quantitative data, marked heterogeneity and low quality of the included studies.

Conclusion

There is not sufficient evidence for any of the reviewed treatment options. Methodological limitations in a majority of the studies rendered their findings preliminary. Of the twelve investigated pharmacological agents, Gabapentin, Lofexidine, Mirtazapine, Quetiapine, and Zolpidem showed some primary benefits for treatment of sleep difficulties associated with cannabis withdrawal; however, future prospective studies are required to confirm such results.

Scientific Significance

This review examines the current evidence for potential pharmacological options for treatment of cannabis withdrawal and associated sleep disturbance. It furthers our knowledge and provides groundwork for future research. (Am J Addict 2018;27:453–464)
Anogenital distance and reproductive outcomes in 9‐ to 11‐year‐old boys: the INMA‐Granada cohort study
Authors: Freire C. , Ocón‐Hernández O. , Dávila‐Arias C. , Pérez‐Lobato R. , Calvente I. , Ramos R. , Olea N. , Fernández M. F.
Published: August 2018

Background

Studies examining the association of anogenital distance (AGD), a biomarker of prenatal androgen exposure, with sexual development in children are lacking.

Objective

To assess the association between AGD measures and reproductive outcomes, including puberty onset, testicular volume, reproductive hormone levels, and urogenital malformations in boys aged 9–11 years.

Materials and methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among children belonging to the Spanish Environment and Childhood (INMA) Project, a population‐based birth cohort study. The present sample included 279 boys for whom data were available on AGD, pubertal stage, testicular volume, and relevant covariates. Out of the boys with AGD data, 187 provided a blood sample for hormone analysis. AGD was measured from the center of the anus to the base of the scrotum. Pubertal development was assessed according to Tanner stage of genital development (G1–G5), and testicular volume was measured with an orchidometer.

Results

After adjusting for potential confounders, logistic regression analysis showed that AGD was positively associated with testicular volume but not with Tanner stage (>G1 vs. G1), serum hormone levels, or undescended testis. Regardless of their age, body mass index, and Tanner stage (G1 or >G1), boys with longer AGD showed increased odds of a testicular volume >3 mL (OR = 1.06, 95%CI = 1.00–1.19 per 10% increment in AGD; and OR = 3.14, 95%CI = 0.99–9.94 for AGD >42 mm vs. <33 mm).

Discussion

Longer AGD was associated with testicular growth, an indicator of gonadarche, but not with other reproductive outcomes.

Conclusions

Although AGD was positively associated with testicular volume, it remains unclear whether AGD predicts testis size at puberty or is related to puberty onset.
School‐to‐work transition in South Korean young adults: Stratified or Individualized?
Authors: Byun Geumsun
Published: August 2018

This study examines the relationship between family background and school‐to‐work transition (STWT) patterns in South Korean young adults. The transition from school to work has been linear, a simple change in status from full‐time student to full‐time worker. In the recent past, however, segmented (unemployment) and unstable (frequent status changes) patterns (have been increasing). While individualization theorists propose that family background is no longer a strong influence on STWT, stratification theorists posit that family background still plays a key role in STWT. There are a few studies that examine these theoretical arguments using empirical data. The research question is whether nonlinear and low labor market attachment STWT patterns stem from a disadvantaged family background (i.e., parents with low levels of education or low family income). This study applies Group‐Based Trajectory Analysis (GBTA) to the Korean Labor and Income Panel Study (KLIPS). Results show that young adults from disadvantaged family backgrounds are more likely to have segmented and unstable STWT patterns compared to those from advantaged family backgrounds, suggesting that family background still plays a significant role as young adults prepare and enter the labor market. This study supports the use of stratification theory for understanding STWT in labor market uncertainty.
A smart algorithm for the prevention and risk management of QTc prolongation based on the optimized RISQ‐PATH model
Authors: Vandael Eline , Vandenberk Bert , Vandenberghe Joris , Van den Bosch Bart , Willems Rik , Foulon Veerle
Published: August 2018

Aims

QTc prolongation is a complex problem linked with multiple risk factors. The RISQ‐PATH score was previously developed to identify high‐risk patients for QTc prolongation. The aim of this study was to optimize and validate this risk score in a large patient cohort, and to propose an algorithm to generate smart QT signals in the electronic medical record.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed in the Nexus hospital network (n = 17) in Belgium. All electrocardiograms performed in 2015 in both ambulatory and hospitalized patients were collected together with risk factors for QTc prolongation (training database). Multiple logistic regression was performed to obtain the optimal prediction (RISQ‐PATH) model. The model was tested in a validation database (electrocardiograms between January and April 2016).

Results

In total, 60 208 patients (52.8% males, mean age 63 ± 18 years) were included; 3543 patients (5.9%) had a QTc ≥ 450(♂)/470(♀) ms and 453 (0.8%) a QTc ≥ 500 ms. The optimized RISQ‐PATH model has an area under the ROC‐curve of 0.772 [95% CI 0.763–0.780] to predict QTc ≥ 450(♂)/470(♀)ms. A predicted probability of ≥0.035 was set as cutoff for a high risk of QTc prolongation. This cutoff resulted in a sensitivity of 87.4% [95% CI 86.2–88.5] and a specificity of 46.2% [95% CI 45.8–46.6]. These results could be confirmed for QTc ≥ 500 ms and in the validation database (n = 28 400).

Conclusions

The RISQ‐PATH model, with a cutoff probability of 0.035, predicted a prolonged QTc interval ≥ 450/470 ms or ≥500 ms with a sensitivity of ±87% and a specificity of ±45%. This RISQ‐PATH model can be used in clinical decision support systems to create smart QT alerts.
Pharmacotherapy vs surgery as initial therapy for patients with moderate‐to‐severe benign prostate hyperplasia: a cost‐effectiveness analysis
Authors: Erman Aysegul , Masucci Lisa , Krahn Murray D. , Elterman Dean S.
Published: August 2018

Objective

To evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of using a surgery, such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or photoselective vaporisation of the prostate using greenlight laser (GL‐PVP), as initial treatment for men with moderate‐to‐severe benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) compared to the standard practice of using pharmacotherapy as initial treatment followed by surgery if symptoms do not resolve.

Patients and Methods

We compared a combination of eight strategies involving upfront pharmacotherapy (i.e., α‐blocker, 5α‐reductase inhibitor, or combination) followed by surgery (e.g. TURP or GL‐PVP) upon failure vs TURP or GL‐PVP as initial treatment, for a target population of men with moderate‐to‐severe BPH symptoms, with a mean age of 65 years and no contraindications for treatment. A microsimulation decision‐analytic model was developed to project the costs and quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) of the target population over the lifetime. The model was populated and validated using published literature. Incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were determined. Cost‐effectiveness was evaluated using a public payer perspective, a lifetime horizon, a discount rate of 1.5%, and a cost‐effectiveness threshold of $50 000 (Canadian dollars)/QALY. Sensitivity and probabilistic analyses were performed.

Results

All options involving an upfront pharmacotherapy followed by TURP for those who fail were economically unattractive compared to strategies involving a GL‐PVP for those who fail, and compared to using either BPH surgery as initial treatment. Overall, upfront TURP was the most costly and effective option, followed closely by upfront GL‐PVP. On average, upfront TURP costs $1015 more and resulted in a small gain of 0.03 QALYs compared to upfront GL‐PVP, translating to an incremental cost per QALY gained of $29 066. Results were robust to probabilistic analysis.

Conclusions

Surgery is cost‐effective as initial therapy for BPH. However, the health and economic evidence should be considered concurrently with patient preferences and risk attitudes towards different therapy options.
Prostatic capsular incision during radical prostatectomy has important oncological implications: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Philippou Yiannis , Harriss Eli , Davies Lucy , Jubber Ibrahim , Leslie Tom , Bell Richard W. , Bryant Richard J. , Hamdy Freddie C. , Verrill Clare , Lamb Alastair D.
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Prostatic capsular incision (CapI) is an iatrogenic breach of the prostatic capsule during radical prostatectomy (RP) that can cause positive surgical margins (PSMs) in organ‐confined (pT2) prostate cancer, or the retention of benign prostatic tissue. We systematically interrogated the literature in order to clarify the definition of CapI, and the implications of this event for rates of PSM and biochemical recurrence (BCR).

Methods

A literature search was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) criteria using the search terms ‘capsular incision’ AND ‘prostatectomy’, and variations of each. In all, 18 studies were eligible for inclusion.

Results

A total of 51 057 RP specimens were included. The incidence of CapI ranged from 1.3% to 54.3%. CapI definitions varied and included a breach of the prostatic capsule ‘exposing both benign or malignant prostate cancer cells’, ‘malignant tissue only’, or ‘benign tissue only’. The incidence of PSMs due to CapI ranged from 2.8% to 71.7%. Our meta‐analysis results found that when CapI was defined as ‘exposing malignant tissue only in organ‐confined prostate cancer’ there was an increased risk of BCR compared to patients with pT2 disease and no CapI (relative risk 3.53, 95% confidence interval 2.82–4.41; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The absolute impact of CapI on oncological outcomes is currently unclear due to inconsistent definitions. However, the data imply an association between CapI and PSMs and BCR. Reporting of possible areas of CapI on the operation note, or marking areas of concern on the specimen, are critical to assist CapI recognition by the pathologist.
The rapid deglaciation of the Skagafjörður fjord, northern Iceland
Authors: Andrés Nuria , Palacios David , Sæmundsson Þorsteinn , Brynjólfsson Skafti , Fernández‐Fernández José M.
Published: August 2018

The Skagafjörður fjord in northern Iceland is located between the Tröllaskagi Peninsula in the east and the Skagi Peninsula in the west. The tributary valleys of the fjord originate in the highland area about 15 km north of the Hofsjökull icecap. The results of this work improve the knowledge of the deglaciation pattern in Skagafjörður and explore the adequacy of the 36Cl cosmic ray exposure dating method in an Icelandic environment, where this method has rarely been applied to deglaciated surfaces. The 36Cl dating method was applied to 13 rock samples taken on a transect from the coastal areas towards the highlands. All samples were obtained from rock outcrops with glacier‐polished surfaces from the Last Glaciation and from one of the few well‐preserved erratic boulders. The cosmogenic results, combined with previous radiocarbon results, indicate that the ice margin was situated in the outermost sector of Skagafjörður at approximately 17–15 ka BP. Subsequently, it retreated and occupied the central part of the fjord between 15 and 12 ka BP and then the innermost sector of the fjord about 11 ka BP. The samples collected between this position and the highlands show an average age of approximately 11 ka, indicating rapid deglaciation after the early Preboreal. These results agree with earlier studies of the deglaciation history of northern Iceland, reinforce previous deglaciation models in the area and enable a better understanding of glacial evolution in the North Atlantic from the Late Pleistocene to Holocene transition.
Pathogens and autoimmune hepatitis
Authors: Christen U , Hintermann E
Published: August 2018

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a severe form of hepatitis resulting in the autoimmune-mediated destruction of the liver parenchyma. Whereas many of the immunopathogenic events have been elucidated and some of the drivers of the disease have been identified, little is known about the aetiology of the disease. There are certain risk factors, such as particular human leucocyte antigen (HLA) haplotypes, that enhance the susceptibility for AIH or influence the severity of the disease. However, as for many other autoimmune diseases, the mere presence of such risk factors does not warrant the occurrence of the disease. Not all individuals carrying risk factors develop AIH, and not all patients with AIH are carriers of high-risk alleles. Thus, additional environmental factors need to be considered as triggers for AIH. Environmental factors include diet, sunlight exposure, stress, medication and hygiene, as well as pathogen infections and vaccinations. This review discusses if pathogens should be considered as triggers for the initiation and/or propagation of AIH.
Accuracy of cone‐beam computed tomography, dental magnetic resonance imaging, and intraoral radiography for detecting peri‐implant bone defects at single zirconia implants—An in vitro study
Authors: Hilgenfeld Tim , Juerchott Alexander , Deisenhofer Ulrich Karl , Krisam Johannes , Rammelsberg Peter , Heiland Sabine , Bendszus Martin , Schwindling Franz Sebastian
Published: August 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the diagnostic value of cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT), intraoral radiography (IR), and dental magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) for detecting and classifying peri‐implant bone defects at zirconia implants.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐eight zirconia implants were inserted in bovine ribs, 24 of which had standardized defects (1‐wall, 2‐wall, 3‐wall, 4‐wall) in two sizes (1 and 3 mm). CBCT, IR, and dMRI were performed and analyzed twice by four readers unaware of the nature of the defects. Cohen's and Fleiss' kappa (κ), sensitivity, and specificity were calculated for the presence/absence of bone defects, defect size, and defect type. Cochran's Q‐test with post hoc McNemar was used to test for statistical differences.

Results

A high intra‐ and inter‐reader reliability (κ range: 0.832–1) and sensitivity/specificity (IR: 0.97/0.96; CBCT: 0.99/1; dMRI: 1/0.99) for bone defect detection were observed for all three imaging methods. For defect type classification, intra‐ (κ range: 0.505–0.778) and inter‐reader (κ: 0.411) reliability of IR were lower compared to CBCT (κ range intrareader: 0.667–0.889; κ inter‐reader: 0.629) and dMRI (κ range intrareader: 0.61–0.832; κ inter‐reader: 0.712). The sensitivity for correct defect type classification was not significantly different for CBCT (0.81) and dMRI (0.83; p = 1), but was significantly lower for IR (0.68; vs. CBCT p = 0.003; vs. dMRI p = 0.004). The sensitivity advantage of CBCT and dMRI for defect classification was smaller for 1‐mm defects (CBCT/dMRI/IR: 0.68/0.72/0.63, no significant difference) than for 3‐mm defects (CBCT/dMRI/IR: 0.95/0.94/0.74; CBCT vs. IR p = 0.0001; dMRI vs. IR p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Within the limitations of an in vitro study, IR can be recommended as the initial imaging method for evaluating peri‐implant bone defects at zirconia implants. CBCT provides higher diagnostic accuracy of defect classification at the expense of higher cost and radiation dose. Dental MRI may be a promising imaging method for evaluating peri‐implant bone defects at zirconia implants in the future.
Biodiversity loss along a gradient of deforestation in Amazonian agricultural landscapes
Authors: Decaëns Thibaud , Martins Marlúcia B. , Feijoo Alexander , Oszwald Johan , Dolédec Sylvain , Mathieu Jérôme , Arnaud de Sartre Xavier , Bonilla Diego , Brown George G. , Cuellar Criollo Yeimmy Andrea , Dubs Florence , Furtado Ivaneide S. , Gond Valérie , Gordillo Erika , Le Clec'h Solen , Marichal Raphaël , Mitja Danielle , de Souza Izildinha Miranda , Praxedes Catarina , Rougerie Rodolphe , Ruiz Darío H. , Otero Joel Tupac , Sanabria Catalina , Velasquez Alex , Zararte Luz Elena M. , Lavelle Patrick
Published: August 2018

Assessing how much management of agricultural landscapes, in addition to protected areas, can offset biodiversity erosion in the tropics is a central issue for conservation that still requires cross‐taxonomic and landscape‐scale studies. We measured the effects of Amazonia deforestation and subsequent land‐use intensification in 6 agricultural areas (landscape scale), where we sampled plants and 4 animal groups (birds, earthworms, fruit flies, and moths). We assessed land‐use intensification with a synthetic index based on landscape metrics (total area and relative percentages of land uses, edge density, mean patch density and diversity, and fractal structures at 5 dates from 1990 to 2007). Species richness decreased consistently as agricultural intensification increased despite slight differences in the responses of sampled groups. Globally, in moderately deforested landscapes species richness was relatively stable, and there was a clear threshold in biodiversity loss midway along the intensification gradient, mainly linked to a drop in forest cover and quality. Our results suggest anthropogenic landscapes with high‐quality forest covering >40 % of the surface area may prevent biodiversity loss in Amazonia.
Assessing the vulnerability of freshwater crayfish to climate change
Authors: Hossain Md Anwar , Lahoz‐Monfort José J. , Burgman Mark A. , Böhm Monika , Kujala Heini , Bland Lucie M.
Published: August 2018

Aim

Climate change is a major threat to the persistence of biodiversity. Global assessments highlight the most climate vulnerable species and geographic regions based on species traits and measures of exposure to climate change. Yet the majority of climate change vulnerability assessments have focused on terrestrial and marine vertebrates and largely ignored the less well‐known freshwater species and invertebrates. We present the first global analysis of 574 species of freshwater crayfish (Families: Astacidae, Parastacidae and Cambaridae) using IUCN's trait‐based vulnerability assessment protocol.

Location

Global.

Methods

We collected species‐specific information on sensitivity (eight traits), adaptive capacity (four traits) and exposure (five traits) to climate change and combined those dimensions to assess overall species vulnerability.

Results

Our results predicted that 87% of freshwater crayfish species are highly sensitive to climate change (primarily due to habitat specialization), 35% have low adaptive capacity and 57% are highly exposed (based on an ensemble mean of four general circulation models for a moderate Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) scenario, RCP6.0). Combining sensitivity, low adaptive capacity and exposure, we assessed 87 species (15%) as vulnerable to climate change. These species are distributed globally with high concentrations in the south‐eastern USA (36 species), south‐eastern Australia (21 species) and Mexico (10 species), reflecting global patterns of crayfish species richness. Of the 91 species listed as threatened by climate change in the IUCN Red List, we predicted 18 species to be climate change vulnerable.

Main conclusions

We identified hotspots of species vulnerable to climate change that require further conservation attention. The IUCN trait‐based protocol can help identify data gaps and key traits that should be investigated further and thus can help overcome knowledge shortfalls on the effects of climate change. Our study provides key insights for the application of climate change vulnerability assessment to data‐poor invertebrates, which remain underrepresented in global conservation priorities.
Factors related to difficult self‐expandable metallic stent placement for malignant colonic obstruction: A post‐hoc analysis of a multicenter study across Japan
Authors: Kuwai Toshio , Yamaguchi Toshiki , Imagawa Hiroki , Yoshida Shuntaro , Isayama Hiroyuki , Matsuzawa Takeaki , Yamada Tomonori , Saito Shuji , Shimada Mamoru , Hirata Nobuto , Sasaki Takashi , Koizumi Koichi , Maetani Iruru , Saida Yoshihisa
Published: August 2018

Background and Aim

Colorectal cancer patients often present with large bowel obstruction. Elective placement of a self‐expandable metallic stent (SEMS) can relieve obstruction, but can be challenging. Previous studies have compared cases by outcomes only, but the present study investigated successful cases only to identify factors related to prolonged and difficult SEMS placement in patients with malignant colonic obstruction.

Methods

A post‐hoc analysis of a multicenter clinical trial conducted between March 2012 and October 2013 at 46 facilities across Japan (UMIN000007953) was carried out; 511 patients who required SEMS placement for acute colorectal obstruction or symptomatic stricture secondary to malignant neoplasm were enrolled. Technical success rates and procedure times were recorded. Clinical and interventional parameters were investigated for their potential effect on procedure time by univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

Technical success rate of SEMS placement was 98%. Median procedure time was 30 (range, 4–170) min. In 27% of patients, procedure time exceeded 45 min, indicating technically difficult placement. Multivariate analyses showed significant associations between technically difficult placement and a ColoRectal Obstruction Scoring System (CROSS) score of 0 before SEMS placement (odds ratio [OR], 1.6; P < 0.05), tumor site in the right colon (OR, 2.5; P < 0.0001), stricture length ≥5 cm (OR, 2.2; P < 0.001), peritoneal carcinomatosis (OR, 1.7; P < 0.05), and multiple SEMS placement (OR, 8.0; P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Clinicians must anticipate technical challenges in cases with peritoneal carcinomatosis, a CROSS score of 0, or expansive strictures; such cases require experienced clinicians to carry out SEMS placement.
Disaster risk reduction amidst armed conflict: informal institutions, rebel groups, and wartime political orders
Authors: Walch Colin
Published: August 2018

Extant research has explored the effect of natural hazards on the risk of armed conflict, but very few studies have examined how conflict dynamics affect disaster risk reduction (DRR), including climate change adaptation. This is surprising given the empirical evidence that indicates how often disasters and armed conflicts collide. To understand better the impact of armed conflict on DRR, this paper develops a conceptual typology that is based on rebel groups’ territorial control and on the strength of informal institutions. It documents three main political orders amid conflict: rebel stability; informal stability; and fragmented landscape. These wartime political orders will have different effects on DRR and other development programmes, revealing the importance of desegregating armed conflict to facilitate tailor‐made and more efficient interventions. The paper provides empirical evidence from Mali and the Philippines that illustrates the influence of these wartime political orders on DRR programmes.
Field susceptibility of cork oak trees with different provenances to Phytophthora cinnamomi
Authors: Moreira Ana Cristina , Tapias Raúl , Fernandes Luis , Rodrigues Abel
Published: August 2018

Cork oak decline has been a serious problem in Portuguese central and southern areas in the last 30 years. This decline is associated with Phytophthora cinnamomi, a pathogen with a major impact on cork oak decline. A programme aiming the plant selection on resistance, to address the infection of soilborne P. cinnamomi in cork oak woodlands, should therefore be fundamental for an integrated strategy for the management of the cork oak woodlands. In this context, the main objective of this study was to select potential tolerant families by evaluation of field susceptibility to the pathogen. During 10 years (2004–2014), the survival and height growth of 157 cork oak families from eight different provenances from Portugal and Spain were assessed in a field highly infested with P. cinnamomi. Results showed a high mortality of the plants, over the whole period, insofar that only 14 families, out of the 157, showed a survival rate between 40% and 60%. These families exhibited also a good height growth with heights ranging between 1 and 1.50 m. It was also observed that ploughing, leading to better soil conditions, could contribute to improve the survival rate and the development of plants. Potential families of cork oak were identified as tolerant plant material and rootstock, thereby candidates to be used in restoration and reforestation. Interestingly, additional results concerning a Quercus faginea family evidenced a good resistance of this species to the pathogen. This information is indicative that Q. faginea could be used as a rootstock for the cork oak reforestation in areas where the pathogen had high impact.
Modulating reconsolidation and extinction to regulate drug reward memory
Authors: Liu Jian‐Feng , Tian Jingwei , Li Jun‐Xu
Published: August 2018

Drug addiction is an aberrant memory that shares the same memory processes as other memories. Brief exposure to drug‐associated cues could result in reconsolidation, a hypothetical process during which original memory could be updated. In contrast, longer exposure times to drug‐associated cues could trigger extinction, a process that decreases the conditioned responding. In this review, we discuss the pharmacological and non‐pharmacological manipulations on the reconsolidation and extinction that could be used to interfere with drug reward memories. Pharmacological agents such as β‐adrenergic receptor antagonist propranolol can interfere with reconsolidation to disrupt drug reward memory. Pharmacological agents such as the NMDA receptor glycine site agonists d‐cycloserine and d‐serine can facilitate extinction and then attenuate the expression of drug reward memory. Besides pharmacological interventions, drug‐free behavioral approaches by utilizing the reconsolidation and extinction, such as ‘post‐retrieval extinction’ and ‘UCS‐retrieval extinction’, are also effective to erase or inhibit the recall of drug reward memory. Taken together, pharmacological modulation and non‐pharmacological modulation of reconsolidation and extinction are promising approaches to regulate drug reward memory and prevent relapse.
Effect of sleep bruxism duration on perceived sleep quality in middle‐aged subjects
Authors: Neu Daniel , Baniasadi Nina , Newell Johan , Styczen David , Glineur Régine , Mairesse Olivier
Published: August 2018

Sleep‐related bruxism may directly impact sleep quality. This study aims to evaluate potential relationships between sleep bruxism events and related daytime symptoms. We investigated 22 patients (42.1 ± 11.6 yr of age) with sleep bruxism in comparison with 12 good sleeper control subjects of similar age (41.0 ± 11.5 yr). Sleep bruxism was visually analyzed and categorized according to sleep stage, bruxism type (tonic/phasic) and duration. Clinical instruments comprised the Epworth Sleepiness, the Brugmann Fatigue Scale, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Rating Scale. Sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Controls and patients with sleep bruxism presented similar sleep architecture. However, patients with sleep bruxism displayed significantly decreased sleep efficiency and higher sleep fragmentation. Perceived sleep quality was significantly worse in patients with sleep bruxism than in control subjects. Additionally, patients presented with significantly greater fatigue intensity and more affective symptoms than controls. The cumulative durations of sleep bruxism events (phasic, tonic, and combined) were significantly correlated with deterioration of sleep quality, whereas neither the event index per hour of sleep nor the count of event types (phasic/tonic) were related to sleep quality. Patients with sleep bruxism present with higher levels of daytime fatigue and sleepiness than control subjects who experience good sleep and may also exhibit impairments of sleep quality which are related to the duration of bruxism occurrence rather than to its frequency.
Real‐time curing characteristics of experimental resin composites containing amorphous calcium phosphate
Authors: Par Matej , Tarle Zrinka , Hickel Reinhard , Ilie Nicoleta
Published: August 2018

The real‐time polymerization of light‐curable experimental resin composites filled with amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) was monitored. Experimental composites were based on a 2,2‐bis[4‐(2‐ethoxy‐3‐methacryloyloxy propoxy)phenyl]propane (Bis‐EMA)/triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA)/2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) resin photoactivated by a camphorquinone/tertiary amine system. Four ACP composites were prepared, containing 40 wt% ACP and 0/10 wt% reinforcing fillers (barium glass and silica). Additionally, two control composites were prepared which contained only reinforcing fillers (40–50 wt%). The degree of conversion (DC) was monitored in real time using a Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer with an attenuated total reflectance accessory. During the light curing (1,219 mW cm−2) for either 20 or 40 s, infrared spectra were collected from the bottom of 2‐mm‐thick composite specimens at the rate of two spectra per second over 5 min. When cured for 40 s, the ACP composites attained a high DC (89.1%–92.4%), while the DC of control composites was significantly lower (53.5%–68.4%). All materials showed a lower DC for the shorter curing time (20 s) and various extents of 5‐min postcure polymerization: 12.9%–21.5% for the ACP composites and 2.7%–5.2% for the control composites. The control composites reached the maximum reaction rate much earlier (4.1–4.3 s) and at lower DC (9.9%–10.4%) than did the ACP composites (17.4–22.0 s and 43.5%–49.3%, respectively).
Atlantic and Pacific halibut co‐management initiatives by Canadian fishermen's organizations
Authors: Pinkerton Evelyn , Allain Marc , Decker David , Carew Ken
Published: August 2018

Many fisheries managers and neoliberal fisheries economists promote Individual Transferable Quotas (ITQs) as a solution to the race for fish which can cause rent dissipation under competitive quota or open access fisheries. These actors consider the Canadian Pacific halibut ITQ fishery an example of successful achievement of these objectives. However, critics note the weak performance of this management model in distribution of benefits, increased capital costs to fishermen, deteriorating safety conditions, reductions in crew income and barriers to entry. They point to the layup system which successfully managed effort in the Pacific halibut fishery for four decades prior to the introduction of ITQs. A system similar to the layup has been used for Atlantic halibut since 2013, initiated by the Fish Food and Allied Workers (FFAW) representing owner‐operator license holders in the halibut fishery off the coast of western Newfoundland and southern Labrador. The FFAW rejected the two halibut management plan options presented to them by Fisheries and Oceans Canada: the status quo (a competitive 12‐hr “derby” fishery) or IQs, likely leading to ITQs. Instead, the FFAW worked with license holders to develop a management plan that required harvesters to choose between different fishing periods that spread fishing opportunities over time. This approach improved conservation results, delivered strong economic returns, distributed benefits widely to active fishermen, and allowed an even flow into the market. The authors consider the advantages of these Canadian east and west coast halibut co‐management systems and their broader application.
Multisite phosphorylation provides a reliable mechanism for making decisions in noisy environments
Authors: Aledo Juan Carlos
Published: August 2018

The ability to make decisions at the cellular level is absolutely critical for the survival of organisms. Eukaryotic cells are constantly making binary decisions in response to internal and environmental signals. Among the most notable transducers of information are protein kinases. The regulation of these signaling proteins often relies on the activity of other protein kinases located upstream in the signaling cascade. However, these signaling systems are by their own nature an important source of molecular noise. Herein, we have assessed the role of multisite phosphorylation in detecting signals in the face of molecular noise. To address this issue, we have conceptually envisioned the biochemical transduction machinery as a classifier model that can lead to four possible outputs: true positives and negatives, and false positives and negatives. In this probabilistic framework, we show that multisite phosphorylation represents a mechanism to filter noise during the decision‐making process. We present results showing that nonessential phosphorylation sites contribute to increase the rate of true positives while, at the same time, they can lessen the rate of false positives. This simultaneous increase in sensitivity and specificity, makes multisite phosphorylation a valuable and easily implemented mechanism to reliably transduce information in noisy contexts.
X‐ray computed tomography to predict soil N2O production via bacterial denitrification and N2O emission in contrasting bioenergy cropping systems
Authors: Kravchenko Alexandra N. , Guber Andrey K. , Quigley Michelle Y. , Koestel John , Gandhi Hasand , Ostrom Nathaniel E.
Published: August 2018

While renewable biofuels can reduce negative effects of fossil fuel energy consumption, the magnitude of their benefits depends on the magnitude of N2O emissions. High variability of N2O emissions overpowers efforts to curb uncertainties in estimating N2O fluxes from biofuel systems. In this study, we explored (a) N2O production via bacterial denitrification and (b) N2O emissions from soils under several contrasting bioenergy cropping systems, with specific focus on explaining N2O variations by accounting for soil pore characteristics. Intact soil samples were collected after 9 years of implementing five biofuel systems: continuous corn with and without winter cover crop, monoculture switchgrass, poplars, and early‐successional vegetation. After incubation, N2O emissions were measured and bacterial denitrification was determined based on the site‐preference method. Soil pore characteristics were quantified using X‐ray computed microtomography. Three bioenergy systems with low plant diversity, that is, corn and switchgrass systems, had low porosities, low organic carbon contents, and large volumes of poorly aerated soil. In these systems, greater volumes of poorly aerated soil were associated with greater bacterial denitrification, which in turn was associated with greater N2O emissions (R2 = 0.52, p < 0.05). However, the two systems with high plant diversity, that is, poplars and early‐successional vegetation, over the 9 years of implementation had developed higher porosities and organic carbon contents. In these systems, volumes of poorly aerated soil were positively associated with N2O emissions without a concomitant increase in bacterial denitrification. Our results suggest that changes in soil pore architecture generated by long‐term implementation of contrasting bioenergy systems may affect the pathways of N2O production, thus, change associations between N2O emissions and other soil properties. Plant diversity appears as one of the factors determining which microscale soil characteristics will influence the amounts of N2O emitted into the atmosphere and, thus, which can be used as effective empirical predictors.
Igbo historiography: Part II
Authors: Chuku Gloria
Published: August 2018

Igbo historiography has advanced since the publication of the epic narrative of Olaudah Equiano in 1789 and its different versions, especially that of Paul Edwards, a British literary historian in 1969. The main objective of this essay is to demonstrate the vitality and diversity of Igbo historical studies and provide informative and thoughtful interpretations of its strengths and weaknesses. In three parts, the essay examines the origin, dispersal, and settlement of the people; sociopolitical institutions and organization; economic systems, including slavery and the transatlantic slave trade, and the colonial economy; Igbo religion, Islam, Christianity, and Western education; colonial encounter; the Igbo in precolonial and modern Nigeria with focus on intergroup relations, ethnicity, and the Nigeria–Biafra War; and Igbo intellectual history. The essay makes a spirited critique of areas of overemphasis and the conceptual and methodological issues. It suggests important neglected themes that require further historical investigations. Its primary goal is to nudge Igbo historiography in new and challenging directions and inspire historians interested in Igbo studies to adopt a historiographical approach that emphasizes currency, relevance, and usability.
Southern food studies: An overview of debates in the field
Authors: Cooley Angela Jill
Published: August 2018

Southern food studies is a young interdisciplinary field originating in the 1970s and 1980s. Today, it is a vibrant area of research that includes scholars, journalists, food writers, documentarians, activists, and chefs. Much of the literature revolves around the ways in which southern food provides a lens for understanding southern culture and identity. Some southern studies scholars, however, challenge this approach and argue that the literature of southern food is too nostalgic, ahistorical, and based on outdated theoretical understandings of the American South. This debate suggests a possible foundational change in the way we understand the field.
A severe chronic outdoor urban pollution alters some facial aging signs in Chinese women. A tale of two cities
Authors: Flament F. , Bourokba N. , Nouveau S. , Li J. , Charbonneau A.
Published: August 2018

Background

The impact of a chronic outdoor urban pollution on skin aging‐related facial signs is a poorly referenced topic.

Objective

To assess, through visual grading and referential photographic atlas, possible differences in some facial signs between Chinese women, of comparable ages, living in two close cities very differently exposed to urban pollution.

Methods

The faces of two cohorts of 204 Chinese women (2 × 102) of same age‐groups (25–45 years), living in Baoding (a highly polluted city) and Dalian (a less polluted city), for at least 15 years, have been analyzed. Standardized facial photographs (full face and lateral views) were taken and examined, focusing on 26 signs that belong to 3 different clusters (wrinkles and skin texture, pigmentation disorders, and skin pores/skin redness). The severity of each facial sign was graded by 15 trained experts with the help of an Asian skin referential photographic Atlas that illustrates various scales of clinical severity (0–5, 0–8…). In addition, a naïve panel of 80 Chinese non‐expert women was asked, while viewing all photographs, to answer to 4 questions regarding skin radiance, dullness, healthy appearance, and perceived age.

Results

The increased severity of almost all facial signs was mostly observed in the older group (40–45 years) living in Baoding. In particular, the clinical severity of eight facial signs (five related to skin structure and three related to pigmentation) was found strongly and significantly enhanced by a regular exposure to a severe chronic urban pollution. The naïve panel judged the facial appearance of women from Baoding less radiant, duller, less healthy, and found them older than their Dalian counterparts. The monthly‐recorded weather conditions (UV radiance, temperature, wind, precipitations) of the two cities (of same latitude) show that these only differ by their very different Air Quality Indexes (AQI). The daily life conditions of all women (UV exposure, use of cosmetic facial products, intake of sweet or spicy food…) were found similar in all age‐groups.

Conclusion

As compared to a moderately polluted region, a severe chronic outdoor urban pollution favors the aggravation of some facial signs in Chinese women. In short, a highly polluted environment can be viewed as an additional accelerating factor of the skin aging process, when compared to a moderately polluted area.
THE ELASTICITY OF SUBSTITUTION BETWEEN TIME AND MARKET GOODS: EVIDENCE FROM THE GREAT RECESSION
Authors: Nevo Aviv , Wong Arlene
Published: August 2018

We document a change in household shopping behavior during the Great Recession. Households purchased more on sale, larger sizes, and generic products and increased coupon usage and shopping at discount stores. We estimate a decline in returns to shopping during the recession. Therefore, the increase in shopping behavior implies a significant decrease in households' opportunity cost of time. Using the estimated cost of time and time use data, we estimate a high elasticity of substitution between market expenditure and time spent on nonmarket work. We find that households smooth a sizable fraction of consumption by varying their time allocation during recessions.
WORKER INVESTMENTS IN SAFETY, WORKPLACE ACCIDENTS, AND COMPENSATING WAGE DIFFERENTIALS
Authors: Guardado José R. , Ziebarth Nicolas R.
Published: August 2018

The theory of compensating wage differentials (CWDs) assumes that firms supply and workers demand workplace safety, predicting a positive relationship between accident risk and wages. This article allows for safety provision by workers, which predicts a countervailing negative relationship between individual risk and wages: Firms pay higher wages for higher safety‐related productivity. Using National Longitudinal Survey of Youth panel data and data on fatal and nonfatal accidents, our precise CWDs imply a value of a statistical injury of $45.4 thousand and a value of a statistical life of $6.3 million. In line with our model, individual risk and wages are negatively correlated.