bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LINKING WEALTH AND PUNISHMENT EFFECTIVENESS: PUNISHMENT AND COOPERATION UNDER CONGRUENT HETEROGENEITIES
Authors: Waichman Israel
Published: September 2018

Global and local cooperation in supplying global public goods is often insufficient. In this respect, laboratory experiments show that peer punishment is an effective cooperation‐enhancing instrument. However, it is unclear whether peer punishment would facilitate cooperation and public good provision even under congruent heterogeneities in wealth and punishment effectiveness. To this end, we experimentally study the effect of peer punishment under joint heterogeneities, where either the richest or the poorest member is also the most effective punisher. We compare these joint heterogeneities to treatments with single heterogeneities in either endowment or punishment effectiveness and to a baseline symmetry treatment with homogeneous parties. We find that heterogeneity in punishment effectiveness does not matter for cooperation, whereas endowment heterogeneity reduces cooperation compared to symmetry. This is because rich members contribute a lower portion of their endowment to the public good than their poorer counterparts. We also observe that cooperation is higher under joint heterogeneities in endowment and punishment effectiveness than under endowment heterogeneity (with no differences than under symmetry). This holds even when the rich party gains less from cooperation and is the most effective punisher. (JEL C92, D74, H41)
Attraction and vibration: Effects of previous exposure and type of food resource in the perception of allocolonial odors in termites
Authors: Ferreira Dinamarta V. , Cristaldo Paulo F. , Rocha Marcos L. C. , Santana Daniela L. , Santos Lucineide , Lima Paulo S. S. , Araújo Ana P. A.
Published: September 2018

Social insects have an efficient recognition system that guarantees social cohesion and protection against intruders in their colonies and territories. However, the energy costs in constant conflicts with neighboring colonies could promote a reduction in the fitness of colonies. Here, we evaluated the effect of previous exposure to allocolonial odor and the consumption of similar food resources on aggressive behavior and choice of allocolonial cues in Nasutitermes aff. coxipoensis (Termitidae: Nasutitermitinae). Our results showed that intercolonial aggressiveness was not affected by previous exposure to allocolonial odor and by the consumption of similar food resources. However, individuals previously exposed to allocolonial odor were more attracted to these odors than individuals who had no prior exposure to allocolonial odor. In addition, individuals from colonies of N. aff. coxipoensis that use similar food resources increased alertness via a greater number of vibration than individuals who consumed different food resources. In general, our results indicate that colonies of N. aff coxipoensis perceive allocolonial cues that have been previously exposed and that the consumption of similar resources triggers an alert signal between individuals. Additional studies are necessary to assess how widespread this capacity of perception is present among the different Isoptera groups and the consequences of colony recognition odor cues on termite space use.
Oil globule size in fish eggs: A matter of biome and reproductive strategy
Authors: Baras Etienne , Arifin Otong Zenal , Slembrouck Jacques , Subagja Jojo , Kristanto Anang Hari , Legendre Marc
Published: September 2018

Here, on the basis of published information upon over 800 species from 39 orders and 202 families, we analyse how the size of oil globules in fish eggs varies between reproductive guilds and environments with contrasting salinities. About 80% of marine fishes produce eggs with oil globules, the volume of which (VO) never exceeds 9% of the egg reserves and averages 2%. These proportions vary very little between marine fish species producing pelagic or demersal eggs. Fewer freshwater fishes (about 40%) produce eggs with oil globules, but their globules are much larger (mean VO of 10%) and their volumes vary considerably between reproductive guilds: VO is on average 3–10 times lower in freshwater species with demersal eggs than among freshwater pelagophils and aphrophils (i.e., bubble nesters), where it averages about 40% (range of 23%–69%) of the egg reserves. These results support the idea that oil globules serve to hydrostatic lift in fresh waters, but not or very little in marine waters, where egg buoyancy can be achieved at a lower energy cost through egg hydration. Advantages and constraints of oil globules in fish eggs are discussed in the light of species producing eggs with very large oil globules (VO > 20%): access to oxygen‐rich water layers that are indispensable for egg development vs. smaller size of larvae at first feeding, since the saturated lipids contained in oil globules essentially serve very little to tissue construction.
Response of Scotian Shelf silver hake (Merluccius bilinearis) to environmental variability
Authors: Reed Daniel , Plourde Stéphane , Cook Adam , Pepin Pierre , Casault Benoit , Lehoux Caroline , Johnson Catherine
Published: September 2018

Commercially‐exploited fish populations are not only shaped by fishing pressure, but also by the dynamics of their environment. By quantifying the influence of environmental variability, fisheries management advice can be improved and uncertainties reduced. To this end, we developed statistical models of the response of Scotian Shelf silver hake stock metrics to variability in zooplankton community composition and phenology over the past 18 years and in the physical environment since 1985. Dominant modes of variability in these pelagic habitat indicators were characterized using principal component analysis, and the relationships of silver hake condition, abundance, and recruitment to pelagic habitat variability were assessed using generalized additive models. Condition was largely modulated by the onset and duration of the spring bloom, which controls food availability. In contrast, adult abundance was governed by composition of the zooplankton community and bottom‐water temperature, which dictates the distribution of silver hake. Finally, recruitment was affected by both thermal conditions and food availability. Our results presented here form the basis for qualitative assessment of ecosystem attributes and the influence on silver hake stock productivity.
Cenozoic evolution of beta diversity and a Pleistocene emergence for modern mammal faunas in China
Authors: He Jiekun , Kreft Holger , Lin Siliang , Xu Yang , Jiang Haisheng
Published: September 2018

Aim

Historical changes in community structure underlie modern spatial diversity patterns, but few empirical studies have focused on the variation in the community composition of fossil assemblages at large spatio‐temporal scales. We investigated how the spatial differentiation of mammal communities changed in China throughout the Cenozoic in response to tectonic uplift and palaeoclimatic changes and explore the timing of the emergence of the modern spatially structured faunas.

Location

China.

Time period

Cenozoic (from 65 Ma to the present).

Major taxa studied

Terrestrial mammals.

Methods

We used a compiled database of the distributions of fossils and extant mammals to compare the multiple‐site beta diversity among families and genera within six time intervals of the Cenozoic using Sørensen dissimilarity (βsor) and Simpson dissimilarity (βsim). To investigate the timing of the emergence of the modern spatially structured faunas, we applied hierarchical clustering and non‐metric multidimensional scaling ordination based on pairwise βsimamong seven zoogeographical regions for each time slice.

Results

The multiple‐site beta diversity at the family level displayed hump‐shaped changes during the Cenozoic, and it peaked in the Eocene and gradually decreased towards the present. However, the genus‐level multiple‐site beta diversity remained rather constant throughout the Cenozoic. Pronounced variations in the relationships among the zoogeographical regions were revealed in both the cluster analyses and the ordinations. The modern spatial structure of mammal faunas at the family level was broadly similar to those observed in the Pliocene and Pleistocene.

Main conclusions

The spatial differentiation of mammal faunas in China dates back to the Eocene and pre‐dates the formation of modern topography and climate. Throughout the Cenozoic, the spatial structure of mammal faunas was reorganized by an interplay of the uplift of the Tibetan Plateau, the emergence of the monsoon system and global macroevolutionary processes. The modern relationships among zoogeographical regions at the family level were established in the Pleistocene.
Gastric cancer: epidemiology, prevention, and therapy
Authors: Venerito Marino , Vasapolli Riccardo , Rokkas Theodoros , Malfertheiner Peter
Published: September 2018

Gastric cancer (GC) is still the third leading cause of cancer death in both sexes worldwide. Helicobacter pylori infection is the most important risk factor for GC and, in spite of the consistent trend of a decreasing incidence, in 2015 approximately 4.4 billion individuals—more than half the world's population—were infected with H. pylori. The birth cohort pattern of decreased H. pylori infection reported in a systematic review contributes to explain the declining GC mortality in Japan. Current trends in estimated annual percentage change of GC incidence foreshadow expected reversals in both falling incidence and male predominance among US non‐Hispanic whites. Combining serum pepsinogen 1 and H. pylori serology was shown to be useful for GC risk stratification in a Finnish population. Gastritis staging by operative link on gastritis assessment was confirmed to be reliable in predicting GC risk in a large prospective study. In a randomized trial from South Korea, H. pylori eradication therapy significantly reduced the rates of metachronous GC in patients who received curative endoscopic resection for early GC. A study based on a territory‐wide health care database of the Hong Kong Hospital Authority showed that aspirin use is associated with a reduced GC risk. Another study based on the same database showed that proton pump inhibitors increase GC risk, but methodological biases have most likely acted as confounders. Confirmatory data on the role of endoscopic submucosal dissection in patients with early GC have been published. The phase III FLOT4 trial has shown that the FLOT triplet regimen (docetaxel, oxaliplatin, leucovorin, and 5‐fluorouracil) improves the outcome of patients with GC and locoregional disease as compared to the ECF triplet (epirubicin, cisplatin, and 5‐fluorouracil). In the phase III ATTRACTION‐2 trial, nivolumab was shown to be an effective treatment option with a relative safe profile for heavily pretreated patients with advanced GC.
Helicobacter pylori and nonmalignant upper gastrointestinal diseases
Authors: Jonaitis Laimas , Pellicano Rinaldo , Kupcinskas Limas
Published: September 2018

The review of the most important recent publications concerning the relation of Helicobacter pylori with peptic ulcer disease (PUD), noninvestigated and functional dyspepsia, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is presented. H. pylori remains the main etiopathogenetic factor in complicated and uncomplicated PUD. Nevertheless, the role of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin is increasing. The novel data did not confirm that PUD caused by NSAIDs and aspirin is less symptomatic. The role of glucocorticoids, immunosuppressants, and antidepressants seems to be of some importance. Although the involvement of H. pylori in functional dyspepsia is controversial, several data support the importance of H. pylori‐induced gastritis in the pathogenesis of dyspeptic symptoms. Recent interventional studies have reported that H. pylori eradication improves dyspepsia mainly in areas with a high prevalence of this bacterium. Novel data regarding the relation of gastrointestinal peptides, ghrelin and obestatin, with H. pylori infection are also presented. Intriguing findings support the involvement of the gastric microbiota in the causation of chronic functional dyspepsia. Finally, some data concerning negative, positive, or neutral associations of H. pylori with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) were published. In this context, today there is no evidence indicating that H. pylori eradication could worsen the symptoms or the course of GERD.
Helicobacter pyloriand some aspects of gut microbiota in children
Authors: Kori Michal , Daugule Ilva , Urbonas Vaidotas
Published: September 2018

Helicobacter pyloriinfection in children differs from infection in adults in many aspects. The rate of infection, epidemiology, clinical presentations and complications, the applicability of diagnostic tests, antibiotic resistance, treatment options, and success rates differ significantly. Due to all these differences, management guidelines for children and adults differ also substantially. In 2017, the Updated ESPGHAN and NASPGHAN Guidelines on the management ofH. pyloriinfection in children were published, emphasizing the differences in clinical presentation and indications for treatment, stating that the primary goal of clinical investigation in children is to identify the cause of upper gastrointestinal symptoms rather than the presence ofH. pyloriinfection. Therefore, the diagnosis should be based on upper endoscopy, and the “test and treat strategy” should not be used in children. Due to an increasing rate of antibiotic resistance worldwide, the updated guidelines recommend broader use of antimicrobial susceptibility testing forH. pyloristrains in order to tailor eradication treatment accordingly. Moreover, treatment in children should be prescribed only when indicated and should be based on the rate of eradication in local populations aiming for treatment success above 90%. During the last two decades there has been a steady decrease in the rate ofH. pyloriinfection in both children and adults in the Western world. Two recent publications studying the incidence ofH. pyloriinfection confirmed that early childhood is a time for acquisition of infection both in industrialized and nonindustrialized countries. In addition, they showed thatH. pyloricould be acquired outside the family. In respect to the inverse association betweenH. pyloriand allergy, a longitudinal study demonstrated that early exposure toH. pyloriat any age was inversely associated with atopy and allergic conditions.
Job autonomy, perceptions of organizational policy, and the safety performance of nurses
Authors: Ko Yu Kyung , Jeong Seok Hee , Yu Soyoung
Published: September 2018

Aims

This study aimed to identify the relationship between nurses' job autonomy, perceptions of organizational policy, and safety performance by identifying the safety performance predictors of nurses working in acute health care settings in South Korea.

Methods

Using data from a structured questionnaire, this cross‐sectional descriptive study assessed the relationship between nurses' job autonomy, perceptions of organizational policy, and safety performance. In 2016, of the 290 nurses from nine acute care hospitals in South Korea invited to participate in the survey, 254 successfully did. Using cross‐sectional data, characteristics of hospitals and nurses were analysed with t tests, one‐way analyses of variance, Pearson correlations, and regression models.

Results

On a scale of one to five, the mean job autonomy was 3.37, mean perceptions of organizational policy was 3.09, and mean safety performance was 3.75. Statistically significant positive correlations were found among job autonomy, perceptions of organizational policy, and safety performance. Multiple regression results found 44% of the variation in safety performance explained by job autonomy, length of employment, and perceptions of organizational policy.

Conclusion

Job autonomy and perceptions of organizational policy were positively related to safety performance. Hospital executives and nurse managers should work to enhance job autonomy and positive perceptions of organizational policy, to contribute to improving patient safety.
Association of gamma‐glutamyl transferase and alanine aminotransferase with type 2 diabetes mellitus incidence in middle‐aged Japanese men: 12‐year follow up
Authors: Kaneko Kayo , Yatsuya Hiroshi , Li Yuanying , Uemura Mayu , Chiang Chifa , Hirakawa Yoshihisa , Ota Atsuhiko , Tamakoshi Koji , Aoyama Atsuko
Published: September 2018

Aims/Introduction

To prospectively investigate whether simultaneous elevation of gamma‐glutamyl transferase (GGT) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is associated with the increase of type 2 diabetes mellitus incidence independent of alcohol drinking, body mass index and triglycerides.

Methods

A total of 2,775 Japanese male workers who had no history of type 2 diabetes mellitus were followed. High GGT and ALT were defined as the top tertiles (GGT cutpoint: 49 IU/L, ALT cutpoint: 28 IU/L). Three groups were created using these dichotomized GGT and ALT cutpoints: both low, either high or both high. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were carried out adjusted for potential confounding factors.

Results

A total of 276 type 2 diabetes mellitus cases were identified during 12 years (27,040 person‐years) of follow up. Participants with simultaneously elevated GGT and ALT had a significantly higher incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, even after adjustment for fasting insulin and fasting blood glucose compared with the group without GGT or ALT elevation. Similar associations were observed in non‐ or light‐to‐moderate alcohol drinkers, as well as in participants with normal weight. However, the association was weaker in participants with triglycerides <150 mg/dL. We then evaluated whether the addition of GGT and ALT would improve the prediction of type 2 diabetes mellitus incidence, and found that their inclusion significantly increased the C‐statistic, net reclassification improvement and integrated discrimination improvement.

Conclusions

Simultaneous elevation of GGT and ALT was significantly associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus incidence, independent of potential confounding factors, including alcohol drinking and obesity, although the association might require concomitant elevation of triglycerides. Inclusion of GGT and ALT improved type 2 diabetes mellitus risk prediction.
Effect of progressive muscle relaxation on the caregiver burden and level of depression among caregivers of older patients with a stroke: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yilmaz Cemile Kütmeç , Aşiret Güler Duru , Çetinkaya Funda , OludaĞ Gülay , Kapucu Sevgisun
Published: September 2018

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the effect of progressive muscle relaxation on the caregiver burden and level of depression among the caregivers of older patients with a stroke.

Methods

This randomized, controlled experimental study was conducted between December, 2015 and July, 2017 with the caregivers of older patients with a stroke who had been admitted to the home care unit of a state hospital. The caregivers were randomly assigned to intervention (n = 23) and control (n = 21) groups, based on the study's inclusion criteria. The caregivers in the intervention group practiced progressive muscle relaxation exercises at home 3 days per week for 8 weeks. The control group had no intervention.

Results

The mean age of the older patients with a stroke was 80.15 ± 9.86 years and the mean duration of the disease was 39.07 ± 44.69 months. The mean age of the caregivers was 50.29 ± 12.62 years, 84.1% of whom were female, 38.6% were elementary school graduates, and 86.4% were married. It was found that there was a statistically significant decrease in the mean Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale and Beck Depression Scale scores of the caregivers in the intervention group after practicing progressive muscle relaxation, but this decrease was not statistically significant when the intervention and control groups were compared.

Conclusion

This study showed that there was a statistically significant decrease in the caregiver burden and level of depression among the caregivers in the intervention group after progressive muscle relaxation exercises, but that there was no statistically significant difference when the intervention and control groups were compared.
Action potential and calcium dependence of tonic somatodendritic dopamine release in the Substantia Nigra pars compacta
Authors: Yee Andrew G. , Forbes Blaze , Cheung Pang‐Ying , Martini Alessandro , Burrell Mark H. , Freestone Peter S. , Lipski Janusz
Published: September 2018

Despite the importance of somatodendritic dopamine (DA) release in the Substantia Nigra pars compacta (SNc), its mechanism remains poorly understood. Using a novel approach combining fast‐scan controlled‐adsorption voltammetry (FSCAV) and single‐unit electrophysiology, we have investigated the mechanism of somatodendritic release by directly correlating basal (non‐stimulated) extracellular DA concentration ([DA]out), with pharmacologically‐induced changes of firing of nigral dopaminergic neurons in rat brain slices. FSCAV measurements indicated that basal [DA]out in the SNc was 40.7 ± 2.0 nM (at 34 ± 0.5°C), which was enhanced by amphetamine, cocaine, and L‐DOPA, and reduced by VMAT2 inhibitor, Ro4‐1284. Complete inhibition of firing by TTX decreased basal [DA]out, but this reduction was smaller than the effect of D2 receptor agonist, quinpirole. Despite similar effects on neuronal firing, the larger decrease in [DA]out evoked by quinpirole was attributed to cell membrane hyperpolarization and greater reduction in cytosolic free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]in). Decreasing extracellular Ca2+ also reduced basal [DA]out, despite increasing firing frequency. Furthermore, inhibiting L‐type Ca2+ channels decreased basal [DA]out, although specific Cav1.3 channel inhibition did not affect firing rate. Inhibition of sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase (SERCA) also decreased [DA]out, demonstrating the importance of intracellular Ca2+ stores for somatodendritic release. Finally, in vivo FSCAV measurements showed that basal [DA]out in the SNc was 79.8 ± 10.9 nM in urethane‐anesthetized rats, which was enhanced by amphetamine. Overall, our findings indicate that although tonic somatodendritic DA release is largely independent of action potentials, basal [DA]out is strongly regulated by voltage‐dependent Ca2+ influx and release of intracellular Ca2+.

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The role of the vagus nerve in appetite control: Implications for the pathogenesis of obesity
Authors: Cork Simon C.
Published: September 2018

The communication between the gut and the brain is important for the control of energy homeostasis. In response to food intake, enteroendocrine cells secrete gut hormones, which ultimately suppress appetite through centrally‐mediated processes. Increasing evidence implicates the vagus nerve as an important conduit in transmitting these signals from the gastrointestinal tract to the brain. Studies have demonstrated that many of the gut hormones secreted from enteroendocrine cells signal through the vagus nerve, and the sensitivity of the vagus to these signals is regulated by feeding status. Furthermore, evidence suggests that a reduction in the ability of the vagus nerve to respond to the switch between a “fasted” and “fed” state, retaining sensitivity to orexigenic signals when fed or a reduced ability to respond to satiety hormones, may contribute to obesity. This review draws together the evidence that the vagus nerve is a crucial component of appetite regulation via the gut‐brain axis, with a particular emphasis on experimental techniques and future developments.
Histology of dental long‐period biorhythms in Canis familiaris
Authors: Hogg Russell T. , Hu Bin , Bromage Timothy G.
Published: September 2018

Our objective is to assess variation in Havers–Halberg oscillation (HHO) periodicities among domestic dogs (Canis familiaris). The HHO is hypothesized to be a hypothalamic‐generated biorhythm coordinating multiple life history variables including body mass and lifespan. Dogs have a broad mass range spanning two orders of magnitude, but this variation has been shown to result from selection on very few genetic loci, and dogs have low variation in other life history traits. Therefore, we predict that HHO variation will not be correlated to body mass among domestic dogs, as it is in anthropoid primates. To test the prediction, we examined dog HHO periodicity via manifestations in tooth enamel and dentine, quantifying HHO rhythm histologically. HHO rhythm is reflected in teeth as the number of days between secretion of successive striae of Retzius (enamel) and Andresen lines (dentine), a value referred to as Retzius periodicity (RP). We counted ca. 24‐h growth lines between successive Retzius and Andresen lines to determine RP in histological thin‐sections from canine teeth of 19 dogs, representing different breeds and sizes. To test our hypothesis, we regressed RP periodicity against body mass data. Dogs have low RP variation for their body mass range, with a modal periodicity of 5 days and a range of 4–6 days. RP was not significantly correlated with body mass. We conclude that mass variation in dogs does not seem driven by HHO physiology, consistent with findings that IGF1 variants produce dog mass variation. However, low RP (and by extension HHO) variation is consistent with low variation in dog lifespan and gestation, suggesting that dog life history may still be governed by HHO mechanisms even if body mass does not reflect this.
Problem‐Solving Orientations, Financial Self‐Efficacy, and Student‐Loan Repayment Stress
Authors: Shim Soyeon , Serido Joyce , Lee Sun‐Kyung
Published: September 2018

Using data acquired from a four‐time longitudinal survey, we tested a model linking two measures of self‐agency, i.e., problem‐solving orientations and financial self‐efficacy, to student‐loan repayment stress. Of those participants who responded at Wave 4 (N = 855) of a longitudinal study, 396 who had acquired student loans were included in our structural equation model's Mplusanalysis. After we controlled for gender, college financial education, ethnicity, and participant annual income, we found that both financial self‐efficacy and negative problem‐solving orientation were related to perceived difficulty. More specifically, those participants with a greater financial self‐efficacy at Wave 4 perceived less difficulty in paying off their loans, while those with a more negative problem‐solving orientation perceived more difficulty in paying off their loans. We also found perceived difficulty to be directly related to the actual difficulty of repaying a loan, and this perceived difficulty was, in turn, associated with loan‐specific stress. We provide implications for financial education.
Minimally invasive approaches to axillary osmidrosis treatment: A comparison between superficial liposuction with automatic shaver curettage, subcutaneous laser treatment, and microwave‐based therapy with a modified technique
Authors: Yang Hung‐Hsu , Miao Yong , Chen Yu‐Tsung , Hu Zhi‐Qi
Published: September 2018

Background

Minimally invasive techniques, including superficial liposuction with automatic shaver curettage (LC), subcutaneous laser treatment, and microwave‐based therapy have been developed to treat osmidrosis. Few studies have compared these three techniques in relation to clinical efficacy, life quality improvement, and downtime.

Aims

We aim to evaluate clinical results and life quality improvement, in addition to downtime and complications, between these three techniques.

Patients/Methods

Clinical records of patients treated with these three minimally invasive techniques for axillary osmidrosis were retrospectively reviewed. Hyperhidrosis disease severity scale, Dermatology Life of Quality Index, clinical improvement, complication, and recurrence were assessed.

Results

Among 403 patients, 168 received microwave‐based therapy, 119 received subcutaneous laser treatment, and 116 received LC. All treatments showed significant improvements (P < 0.001) in HDSS, DLQI and clinical result after 3 and 12 months comparing to the baseline. But the improvements of subcutaneous laser were significantly inferior to microwave‐base therapy and LC. Patients who received LC had a significantly longer downtime (P < 0.001) than those who received other treatments. The recurrence rate was significantly higher in the subcutaneous laser treatment group, and the microwave‐based therapy group exhibited a longer recurrence duration (P < 0.001). LC group presented higher complication rate than other treatments.

Conclusion

Comparing to other treatments, microwave‐based therapy was effective in treating osmidrosis with minimal downtime, recurrence, and complications. It could be a durable and effective therapeutic modality for osmidrosis and is less operator‐dependent. It may be considered as a first‐line treatment for axillary osmidrosis.
A survey on usage of personal care products especially cosmetics among university students in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Husain Kakul
Published: September 2018

Background

The harmful health effects of personal care products especially cosmetics have engulfed many societies of the world especially the female section without an alarm.

Objectives

To estimate the prevalence of cosmetic usage and to assess the experiences of Saudi female undergraduate students in Wadi Al Dawasir province in an attempt to arouse general awareness among Saudi students about the harmful effects of the chemicals present therein.

Methodology

It is a cross‐sectional study carried out with a total of randomly selected 106 college students (female) at undergraduate level. Two colleges for girls of Prince Sattam Bin Abdul Aziz University at Wadi Al Dawasir region were included. Standard questionnaire was set in Arabic and English both. T test and data was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Chi‐square/Fisher's exact tests and a P value of <0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

The overall prevalence of using cosmetics (makeup) and average age of first use of the cosmetics was found to be quite high. Statistical analysis shows that 69.8% students applied daily and 23.6% students applied twice to thrice daily. Consequently, this makes a gross percentage of 93.4% among college going Saudi students who applied makeup on daily basis. The findings have shown that 93.2% female and married medical students use cosmetics twice/thrice daily. Similarly, 6.8% female and married medical students use cosmetics once daily. The findings have shown that 82.9% female and unmarried medical students possess knowledge about cosmetics. Similarly, 17.1% female and married medical students possess knowledge about cosmetics.

Conclusion

The usage of cosmetics was found to be extremely high among the college going Saudi students in Wadi Al Dawasir Region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Un‐awareness regarding the harmful effects of cosmetics was found to be high among these students.
A pilot study comparing the efficacy of two formulations of botulinum toxin type A for muscular calves contouring
Authors: Wanitphakdeedecha Rungsima , Ungaksornpairote Chanida , Kaewkes Arisa , Sathaworawong Angkana , Vanadurongwan Bavornrat , Lektrakul Nittaya
Published: September 2018

Background

Enlarged, hypertrophy calf muscles are common in Asian women and can cause psychological burden. Botulinum toxin A (BTA) has been widely used in treating masseteric muscle hypertrophy and it's efficacious as a noninvasive method for calf‐contouring has been reported. Food and Drug Administration has approved onabotulinumtoxin A (ONA, Botox; Allergan Inc, Irvine, CA, USA) for upper face rejuvenation and it has off‐label uses for calf‐contouring. A recently introduced Prabotulinumtoxin A (NABOTA®, PRA; Daewoong Pharmaceutical, Seoul, Korea) demonstrated a comparable efficacy and safety to ONA for masseter reduction.

Objective

To compare the efficacy and safety of PRA and ONA gastrocnemius muscle reduction.

Methods

This is an experimental, randomized, controlled double‐blind study. Twenty‐two patients were randomized to receive 100 units PRA and ONA on each calf and were asked to come for follow‐up visit for up to 6 months. Clinical photographic documentation, calf circumference measurement (upright position and tiptoe), isokinetic analysis, and ultrasonographic imaging were performed to evaluate the treatment result. In addition, patients’ satisfaction and side effect were also recorded.

Results

All patients completed the study without serious side effect occurred during the whole study period. The mean calf circumference of the ONA‐ and PRA‐treated patients in upright position at baseline was 35.42 ± 1.35 cm and 36.49 ± 2.98 cm, respectively (P = 0.137). The mean calf circumference in upright position decreased significantly as early as 2 weeks after treatment, both in ONA group and in PRA group (P = 0.004 and P = 0.003, respectively), and continued to decrease until 6 months after treatment (P = 0.002 and P < 0.001, respectively). There was no statistically significant difference in mean calf circumference when comparing between ONA and PRA group at any time of follow‐up period. For the tiptoe position, only in the PRA group that showed significant reduction as early as two weeks and lasted up to 6 months of follow‐up (P < 0.001). The isokinetic analysis showed no significant reduction on both maximum torque and average work value in two groups. The ultrasonographic imaging revealed that the mean thickness of the lateral head of the gastrocnemius showed significant only in PRA‐treated group at 2‐, 3‐, and 6‐months of follow‐up; meanwhile, the mean thickness of the medial head showed significant reduction at 2‐ and 6‐months, with a slight increase at 3‐months follow‐up in two groups. The patients’ satisfaction rate and doctor's evaluation also showed no statistically significant difference between both groups.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that PRA and ONA provided comparable efficacy and safety in gastrocnemius muscle reduction.
Outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with low versus high gradient severe aortic stenosis in the setting of preserved left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Shah Binita , McDonald Daniel , Paone Darien , Redel‐Traub Gabriel , Jangda Umair , Guo Yu , Saric Muhamed , Donnino Robert , Staniloae Cezar , Robin Tonya , Benenstein Ricardo , Vainrib Alan , Williams Mathew R.
Published: September 2018

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for low gradient (LG) severe aortic stenosis (AS) with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) remains an area of clinical uncertainty.

Methods

Retrospective review identified 422 patients who underwent TAVR between September 4, 2014 and July 1, 2016. Procedural indication other than severe AS (n = 22) or LVEF <50% (n = 98) were excluded. Outcomes were defined by valve academic research consortium two criteria when applicable and compared between LG (peak velocity <4.0 m/s and mean gradient <40 mmHg; n = 73) and high gradient (HG) (n = 229) groups. The LG group was further categorized as low stroke volume index (SVI) (n = 41) or normal SVI (n = 32). Median follow‐up was 747 days [interquartile range 220–1013].

Results

Baseline thirty‐day mortality risk (LG 6.2% [3.8–8.1] vs HG 5.7% [4.1–7.4], P = 0.43) did not differ between groups. Short‐term outcomes, including procedural success rate (86.1% vs 88.8%, P = 0.53), peri‐procedural complications (intra‐procedural heart block: 6.8% vs 7.9%, P = 0.99; permanent pacemaker placement: 11.0% vs 13.6%, P = 0.69; moderate paravalvular regurgitation: 2.7% vs 1.3%, P = 0.60), and all‐cause in‐hospital mortality (2.7% vs 0.9%, P = 0.25) did not differ between LG and HG groups. On long‐term follow‐up, all‐cause mortality also did not differ between LG and HG groups (6.8% vs 10.0%, plog‐rank = 0.33) or between the LG low SVI (9.8%), LG normal SVI (3.1%), and HG (10.0%) groups (plog‐rank = 0.39).

Conclusion

Patients with preserved LVEF undergoing TAVR for severe AS with LG, including LG with low SVI, have no significant difference in adverse outcomes when compared to patients with HG.
Genetic analysis of resistance to watermelon bud necrosis orthotospovirus in watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum & Nakai]
Authors: Nagesh Gandlahally Chennappa , Rao Eguru Sreenivasa , Pitchaimuthu Mottaiyan , Varalakshmi Budhavaram , Lakshmana Reddy Dhoranalapalli Chinnappareddy , Samuel Duleep Kumar , Rekha Ajithakumar , Krishna Reddy Manem
Published: September 2018

An experiment was conducted to study the genetics and nature of gene action of resistance to watermelon bud necrosis orthotospovirus (WBNV) in watermelon. The experimental materials comprised of two resistant (BIL‐53 and IIHR‐19) and one susceptible (IIHR‐140) parents. Each of the resistant parents was crossed with the susceptible parent to develop six generations (P1, P2, F1, F2, BC1 and BC2) to study genetics. The results of segregation in F2 and backcross progenies suggested that resistance is governed by a major dominant gene along with other background minor genes in both the crosses. BIL‐53 was found to possess higher degree of resistance with simple inheritance and hence may be of interest to breeders. Simple selection can be effective for improving the trait in the cross BIL‐53 × IIHR‐140 as additive gene action is prevalent.
Does the Narrative Policy Framework Apply to Local Policy Issues?
Authors: O’Donovan Kristin Taylor
Published: September 2018

To what extent does the Narrative Policy Framework (NPF) apply to local policy issues? The scholarship developing the NPF as a theoretical framework has focused on national, state, or regional policy problems with very little attention to local ones. This article contributes to the literature on policy narratives, finding that the use of narrative elements by coalitions is more nuanced in highly localized policy settings than the current theory suggests. In particular, the depiction of characters and assignment of blame differs more in local settings than the NPF would indicate. Hypotheses about key narrative elements of characters, causal mechanisms, narrative story type, and policy solutions are tested using data from a content analysis of 202 policy narratives about the residential water shutoffs in Detroit during 2014. Findings support the use of the NPF for local policy issues and the importance of depicting characters as beneficiaries rather than villains or victims.
2,4‐D‐induced parthenocarpy in pear is mediated by enhancement of GA4 biosynthesis
Authors: Cong Liu , Yue Rongrong , Wang Huibin , Liu Jianlong , Zhai Rui , Yang Jie , Wu Meng , Si Min , Zhang Haiqi , Yang Chengquan , Xu Lingfei , Wang Zhigang
Published: September 2018

Parthenocarpy, the productions of seedless fruit without pollination or fertilization, is a potentially desirable trait in many commercially grown fruits, especially in pear, which is self‐incompatible. Phytohormones play important roles in fruit set, a process crucial for parthenocarpy. In this study, 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4‐D), an artificially synthesized plant growth regulator with functions similar to auxin, was found to induce parthenocarpy in pear. Histological observations revealed that 2,4‐D promoted cell division and expansion, which increased cortex thickness, but the effect was weakened by paclobutrazol (PAC), a gibberellin (GA) biosynthesis inhibitor. Phenotypic differences in pear may therefore be due to different GA contents. Hormone testing indicated that 2,4‐D mainly induced the production of bioactive GA4, rather than GA3. Three key oxidase genes function in the GA biosynthetic pathway: GA20ox, GA3ox and GA2ox. In a pear group treated with only 2,4‐D, PbGA20ox2‐like and PbGA3ox‐1 were significantly upregulated. When treated with 2,4‐D supplemented with PAC, however, expression levels of these genes were significantly downregulated. Additionally, PbGA2ox1‐like and PbGA2ox2‐like expression levels were significantly downregulated in pear treated with either 2,4‐D only or 2,4‐D supplemented with PAC. We thus hypothesize that 2,4‐D can induce parthenocarpy by enhancing GA4 biosynthesis.
Xenotransplantation of goat ovary as an alternative to analyse follicles after vitrification
Authors: Jiatsa Donfack Nathalie , Alves Kele Amaral , Alves Benner Geraldo , Pedrosa Rocha Rebeca Magalhães , Bruno Jamily Bezerra , Lobo Carlos H. , Bertolini Marcelo , dos Santos Regiane Rodrigues , Taumaturgo Marilia de Oliveira , Raposo Ramon da Silva , de Figueiredo José Ricardo , Smitz Johan , Ribeiro Rodrigues Ana Paula
Published: September 2018

Contents

The aim of this study was to evaluate the caprine preantral follicles enclosed on vitrified/warmed ovarian cortex grafted to nude BALB/mice during 1 month. The ovarian cortex from goats was fragmented (3 × 3 × 0.5 mm) and divided into four groups: fresh control, vitrified control, fresh transplant and vitrified transplant. Follicular morphology, development and density, fibrosis as well as apoptosis, and tissue revascularization were evaluated. It was also observed a significant decrease in morphologically normal preantral (primordial, transition, primary and secondary) follicles in both vitrified control and vitrified transplant treatments when compared with both fresh control and fresh transplant. However, fresh control and fresh transplant exhibited a similar percentage of developing follicles. Additionally, Vitrified control showed a significant increase in developing follicles in comparison with both fresh control and fresh transplant. Follicular density significantly decreased in all treatments in comparison with fresh control. We observed high fibrosis in both fresh transplant and vitrified transplant. The mRNA expression of caspase 3 was lower in both fresh transplant and vitrified transplant in comparison with vitrified control. In conclusion, xenotransplantation is an excellent strategy to maintain normal preantral follicle morphology after vitrification/warming of goat ovarian tissue. Yet, in order to ensure the survival and development of these follicles, it is essential to improve the revascularization of the graft.
Homogenizing biodiversity in restoration: the “perennialization” of California prairies
Authors: Lesage Josephine C. , Howard Elizabeth A. , Holl Karen D.
Published: September 2018

Restoration frequently aims to improve native species biodiversity at a site, but practitioners have limited resources. In diverse ecosystems, the selective use of certain guilds or species can come at the cost of species that are more challenging to incorporate, resulting in the overall homogenization of the ecosystem and a relative loss of biodiversity. We surveyed practitioners who restore California prairies to understand their use of native annual forbs, an important component of the biodiversity in this ecosystem. We found that practitioners preferentially planted native perennial species, mainly grasses. Despite practitioners' recognition of the high conservation value of native annual forbs, they were hesitant to include this guild in their planting palettes because of high costs, low and unpredictable establishment, and lack of seed. We recommend that California annual prairie forbs be seeded in multiple years to enhance establishment, and that monitoring targets be designed to better reflect the high variability in interannual abundance of native annual forbs. These issues are not unique to California prairie, and more broadly, restoration objectives and research across a range of ecosystems should prioritize guilds that are more challenging to establish but are of high conservation concern.
Syndepositional precipitation of calcium sulfate in Gale Crater, Mars
Authors: Kah Linda C. , Stack Kathryn M. , Eigenbrode Jennifer L. , Yingst R. Aileen , Edgett Kenneth S.
Published: September 2018

Lacustrine sedimentary rocks of the Murray formation, Gale Crater, Mars, contain evidence for early diagenetic mineral precipitation. High‐resolution MAHLI images permit detailed morphological and spatial analysis of these features. Millimetre‐scale lenticular features occur in massive to well‐laminated mudstone and are interpreted as pseudomorphs after gypsum. The distribution and orientation of lenticular features indicate deposition at or near the sediment–water or sediment–air interface, and the lenticular form suggests crystallization in the presence of organic constituents. Original crystals were likely poikilotopic (i.e., incorporating elements of the matrix), and the original mineralogy was lost during later diagenetic fluid flow. Evidence for lenticular gypsum imaged in Gale Crater, along with earlier observations of potential early diagenetic evaporite precipitation made by the Opportunity rover, indicate that deposition of evaporitic sulfate minerals may have been widespread on early Mars.
Liver transplantation for Hepatitis‐B‐associated liver disease ‐ Three decades of experience
Authors: Teegen Eva Maria , Maurer Max Magnus , Globke Brigitta , Pratschke Johann , Eurich Dennis
Published: September 2018

Background

Hepatitis B (HBV)‐associated end‐stage liver disease used to be a relevant indication for liver transplantation (LT). After transplantation, HBV‐reinfection remains a serious issue. Different strategies to prevent HBV‐reinfection range from the single application of immunoglobulins (HBIG), to the use of modern nucleoside/nucleotide analogues (NUC) in combination with HBIG, followed by HBIG‐discontinuation. The aim of this analysis was to compare different strategies and to sum up the results of 30 years at a high‐volume transplant center and deliver additional information on the histopathological level.

Methods

Data of 372 liver transplantations performed for the HBV‐induced liver disease in 352 patients were extracted from a prospectively organized database. HBV‐reinfection was determined in the entire cohort, according to the mode of HBV‐prophylaxis. Differences in survival rates were analyzed in patients with successful prophylaxis, untreated and controlled HBV‐reinfection. Histopathological results were obtained from protocol biopsies in 151 patients.

Results

HBV‐reinfection was significantly associated with the type of prophylaxis, presence of HBs‐Antigen at the moment of LT, transplant year and influencing the overall survival before 2005. After the introduction of modern NUCs, HBV‐reinfection stopped to impact HBV‐associated transplant loss and survival. Controlled HBV‐infection prevents from HBV‐associated transplant hepatitis and fibrosis development. The role of HBIG declines in favor of NUCs.

Conclusions

Uncontrolled HBV‐reinfection does not occur any more. Even in the presence of Hbs‐antigen, transplant fibrosis does not develop. The most reliable mode to prevent HBV‐recurrence remains the combination of NUCs with a high genetic barrier and HBIG. However, HBIG can safely be discontinued after LT.