bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autism genes are selectively targeted by environmental pollutants including pesticides, heavy metals, bisphenol A, phthalates and many others in food, cosmetics or household products
Authors: Carter C.J. , Blizard R.A.
Published: July 2016

The increasing incidence of autism suggests a major environmental influence. Epidemiology has implicated many candidates and genetics many susceptibility genes. Gene/environment interactions in autism were analysed using 206 autism genes (ASG’s) to interrogate ~1 million chemical/gene interactions in the comparative toxicogenomics database. Bias towards ASG’s was statistically determined for each chemical. Many suspect compounds identified in epidemiology, including tetrachlorodibenzodioxin, pesticides, particulate matter, benzo(a)pyrene, heavy metals, valproate, acetaminophen, SSRI’s, cocaine, bisphenol A, phthalates, polyhalogenated biphenyls, flame retardants, diesel constituents, terbutaline and oxytocin,inter aliashowed a significant degree of bias towards ASG’s, as did relevant endogenous agents (retinoids, sex steroids, thyroxine, melatonin, folate, dopamine, serotonin). Numerous other endocrine disruptors selectively targeted ASG’s including paraquat, atrazine and other pesticides not yet studied in autism and many compounds used in food, cosmetics or household products, including tretinoin, soy phytoestrogens, aspartame, titanium dioxide and sodium fluoride. Autism polymorphisms are known to influence sensitivity to some of these chemicals and these same genes play an important role in barrier function and control of respiratory cilia sweeping particulate matter from the airways. The close gene/environment relationships, for multiple suspect pollutants, suggest that the rising incidence of autism might be chemically driven by numerous environmental contaminants in a gene dependent manner. The protective dappled camouflage of the peppered moth was rendered invalid by industrial soot covering the trees, a situation reversed by clean air acts. The rising tide of neurodevelopmental and other childhood disorders linked to multiple pollutants may need a similar solution.
Joint Genotype- and Ancestry-based Genome-wide Association Studies in Admixed Populations
Authors: Szulc Piotr , Bogdan Malgorzata , Frommlet Florian , Tang Hua
Published: July 2016

In Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) genetic loci that influence complex traits are localized by inspecting associations between genotypes of genetic markers and the values of the trait of interest. On the other hand Admixture Mapping, which is performed in case of populations consisting of a recent mix of two ancestral groups, relies on the ancestry information at each locus (locus-specific ancestry).Recently it has been proposed to jointly model genotype and locus-specific ancestry within the framework of single marker tests. Here we extend this approach for population-based GWAS in the direction of multi marker models. A modified version of the Bayesian Information Criterion is developed for building a multi-locus model, which accounts for the differential correlation structure due to linkage disequilibrium and admixture linkage disequilibrium. Simulation studies and a real data example illustrate the advantages of this new approach compared to single-marker analysis and modern model selection strategies based on separately analyzing genotype and ancestry data, as well as to single-marker analysis combining genotypic and ancestry information. Depending on the signal strength our procedure automatically chooses whether genotypic or locus-specific ancestry markers are added to the model. This results in a good compromise between the power to detect causal mutations and the precision of their localization. The proposed method has been implemented in R and is available athttp://www.math.uni.wroc.pl/~mbogdan/admixtures/.
Steady at the wheel: conservative sex and the benefits of bacterial transformation
Authors: Ambur Ole Herman , Engelstädter Jan , Johnsen Pål J. , Miller Eric L. , Rozen Daniel E.
Published: July 2016

Many bacteria are highly sexual, but the reasons for their promiscuity remain obscure. Did bacterial sex evolve to maximize diversity and facilitate adaptation in a changing world, or does it instead help to retain the bacterial functions that work right now? In other words, is bacterial sex innovative or conservative? Our aim in this review is to integrate experimental, bioinformatic and theoretical studies to critically evaluate these alternatives, with a main focus on natural genetic transformation, the bacterial equivalent of eukaryotic sexual reproduction. First, we provide a general overview of several hypotheses that have been put forward to explain the evolution of transformation. Next, we synthesize a large body of evidence highlighting the numerous passive and active barriers to transformation that have evolved to protect bacteria from foreign DNA, thereby increasing the likelihood that transformation takes place among clonemates. Our critical review of the existing literature provides support for the view that bacterial transformation is maintained as a means of genomic conservation that provides direct benefits to both individual bacterial cells and to transformable bacterial populations. We examine the generality of this view across bacteria and contrast this explanation with the different evolutionary roles proposed to maintain sex in eukaryotes.
Integrative networks illuminate biological factors underlying gene-disease associations
Authors: Krishnan Arjun , Taroni Jaclyn N. , Greene Casey S.
Published: July 2016

A.

Integrative networks combine multiple layers of biological data into a model of how genes work together to carry out cellular processes. Such networks become more valuable as they become more context specific, for example, by capturing how genes work together in a certain tissue or cell type. We discuss the applications of these networks to the study of human disease. Once constructed, these networks provide the means to identify broad biological patterns underlying genes associated with complex traits and diseases. We cover the different types of integrative networks that currently exist and how such networks that encompass multiple biological layers are constructed. We highlight how specificity can be incorporated into the reconstruction of different types of biomolecular interactions between genes, using tissue-specificity as a motivating example. We discuss examples of cases where networks have been applied to study human diseases and opportunities for new applications. Integrative networks with specificity to tissue or other biological features provide new capabilities to researchers engaged in the study of human disease. We expect improved data and algorithms to continue to improve such networks, allowing them to provide more detailed and mechanistic predictions into the context-specific genetic etiology of common diseases
A conceptual view at microtubule plus end dynamics in neuronal axons
Authors: Voelzmann André , Hahn Ines , Pearce Simon P. , Sánchez-Soriano Natalia , Prokop Andreas
Published: July 2016

Axons are the cable-like protrusions of neurons which wire up the nervous system. Polar bundles of microtubules (MTs) constitute their structural backbones and are highways for life-sustaining transport between proximal cell bodies and distal synapses. Any morphogenetic changes of axons during development, plastic rearrangement, regeneration or degeneration depend on dynamic changes of these MT bundles. A key mechanism for implementing such changes is the coordinated polymerisation and depolymerisation at the plus ends of MTs within these bundles. To gain an understanding of how such regulation can be achieved at the cellular level, we provide here an integrated overview of the extensive knowledge we have about the molecular mechanisms regulating MT de/polymerisation. We first summarise insights gained from workin vitro, then describe the machinery which supplies the essential tubulin building blocks, the protein complexes associating with MT plus ends, and MT shaft-based mechanisms that influence plus end dynamics. We briefly summarise the contribution of MT plus end dynamics to important cellular functions in axons, and conclude by discussing the challenges and potential strategies of integrating the existing molecular knowledge into conceptual understanding at the level of axons.
Designing incentive pay practices to motivate not alienate: why firms adopt different payment practice configurations in different countries
Authors: Drury Pauline
Published: July 2016

Purpose

Examines the reward structures used by private-sector firms in different locations.

Design/methodology/approach

Analyzes the prevailing incentive pay practice configurations in 14 countries over four continents. Investigates the extent to which local factors constrain firms’ use of personal and team bonuses or profit-sharing.

Findings

“When in Rome, do as the Romans do” – an old saying but still relevant for the growing number of firms operating in several countries. A well-thought-out incentive scheme encourages employees to think and act in ways that support company objectives. But people in different places can have different ideas about what is fair and appropriate. Human resource professionals have to decide whether to follow the local norms or to introduce the firm’s established practices – and an informed decision can make the difference between having a motivated workforce or making an expensive mistake.

Practical implications

Observes that organizations in some countries show a strong preference for a particular bundle of incentive options. Warns that introducing a different approach may prove counter-productive unless combined with a careful process of change management.

Social implications

Highlights the importance of institutional context and social norms in determining the incentive pay configurations adopted in different countries.

Originality/value

Provides an international guide to prevailing patterns of incentive payment adoption. Shows that external constraints specific to individual countries can have a significant impact on the flexibility of incentive system design.
It isn’t all about the money
Authors: Wheatcroft John
Published: July 2016

Purpose

Aims to shed light on non-monetary awards as incentives. Explores whether they can be used to motivate higher performance in academia and volunteering and how they are used in the voluntary sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Theoretical analysis and analytical methods, such as a new matching technique, randomization in the field, and the survey approach.

Findings

Awards might substantially increase performance, yet they are less frequently used in the Swiss voluntary sector than theory suggests. Practitioners should perhaps give more consideration to awards as an important motivational instrument to be used more widely.

Originality/value

Originality lies in considering a generally under-researched area.
REITs and the Taper Tantrum
Authors: Lee Stephen
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to empirically examine the effect on US stock, bond and real estate investment trust (REIT) prices triggered by the US Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke’s announcement of a possible intent to unwind, or taper, quantitative easing (QE). In particular, the author assessed whether the effect of the “Taper Tantrum” was fundamental or financial on financial markets.

Design/methodology/approach

– The methodology used to determine whether the effect of the “Taper Tantrum” was fundamental or purely financial is that suggested by French and Roll (1986) as extended by Tuluca et al. (2003). The analysis is based on daily data for large cap stocks, small cap stocks, long-term bonds and REITs for 18 months before Ben Bernanke’s announcement and for 18 months after the announcement.

Findings

– The results show that the “Taper Tantrum” had a fundamental, rather than a financial effect on all asset classes, especially so for REITs.

Practical implications

– The author also found that in the post-taper period following Ben Bernanke’s announcement the correlation of REITs with stocks decreased compared with pre-taper period, whereas the correlation of REITS with bonds increased substantially. In other words, the “Taper Tantrum” had a profound effect on the risk/return benefits of including REITs in the US mixed-asset portfolio.

Originality/value

– This is the first paper to examine the effect of the “Taper Tantrum” on REITs.
Impact of connective leadership on employees’ goal commitment during M & A integration
Authors: Yan Shimei , Wu Shan , Zhang Gang
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore the role of connective leadership in the promotion of employee goal commitment, and to determine whether conflict can mediate the relationship between connective leadership and goal commitment during the integration of mergers and acquisitions (M & A).

Design/methodology/approach

– The study draws on survey data (n=255) from Chinese employees who work for 12 native M & A enterprises. Structural equation modeling and regression analysis are applied to analyze the data.

Findings

– The results show that connective leadership is positively related to employee goal commitment (p< 0.01). In addition, relationship conflict partially mediates the relationship between connective leadership and employee goal commitment. Task conflict fully mediates the relationship between connective leadership and employee goal commitment.

Originality/value

– This study introduces connective leadership into M & A and may contribute to the literature related to connective leadership and M & A integration as well as the literature focussed on goal commitment, especially antecedents of goal commitment.
Consistent scaling of population structure across landscapes despite intraspecific variation in movement and connectivity
Authors: Reichert Brian E. , Fletcher Robert J. , Cattau Christopher E. , Kitchens Wiley M.
Published: July 2016

Understanding the spatial scale of population structure is fundamental to long‐standing tenets of population biology, landscape ecology and conservation. Nonetheless, identifying such scales has been challenging because a key factor that influences scaling – movement among patches or local populations – is a multicausal process with substantial phenotypic and temporal variation.

We resolve this problem via a novel application of network modularity. When applied to movements, modularity provides a formal description of the functional aggregation of populations and identifies potentially critical scales for ecological and evolutionary dynamics. We first test for modularity using several different types of biologically relevant movements across the entire geographic range of an endangered bird, the snail kite (Rostrhamus sociabilis plumbeus). We then ask whether variation in movement based on (i) age, (ii) sex and (iii) time (annual, seasonal and within‐season movements) influences spatial population structure (i.e. modularity) in snail kites.

We identified significant modularity in annual dispersal of snail kites (all adults, males only, females only, and juveniles only) and in within‐breeding season movements of adults, yet no evidence of modularity in seasonal (non‐breeding) movements. For those movements with observed modular structure, we found striking similarities in the spatial configuration of population structure, even though movement properties varied considerably among these different types of movements.

Our results suggest that the emergence of modularity in population networks can be robust despite movement heterogeneity and differences in patch‐based measures of connectivity. Furthermore, our comparison of the population structure and connectivity across multiple movement phases helps to identify wetland patches most critical to population connectivity at multiple spatiotemporal scales.

We argue that understanding modularity in populations may provide a robust complement to existing measures of population structure and connectivity and will help to clarify the limiting roles of movement for populations. Such information is increasingly needed for interpreting population persistence and guiding effective conservation strategies with ongoing environmental change.
Neglected and Unloved: Does the Hinge Party Deserve That?
Authors: Arter David
Published: July 2016

This article focuses on the hinge party both as a concept and a strategy. It seeks to ‘liberate’ the hinge party from the clutches of such close conceptual relatives as the ‘pivot party’, the ‘genuine pivot party’, the ‘pivotal centre party’, the ‘pivotal middle party’ and the ‘pivotal median party’. This is a taxonomical jungle and while some use the terms ‘hinge party’ and ‘pivot party’ interchangeably, this study urges a ‘velvet divorce’. The main theoretical question is in two parts: (1) What are the distinguishing features of the hinge party and how does it differ from the pivot party?; and (2) What set of legislative party system circumstances would seem most likely to favour a hinge party strategy of keeping options open to both left and right? Self‐styled centrist parties would seem most likely to favour a hinge party strategy and the empirical question is: To what extent have the Nordic Centre‐label [former agrarian] parties sought and been able to do so?
Why still marry? The role of feelings in the persistence of marriage as an institution1
Authors: Billari Francesco C. , Liefbroer Aart C.
Published: July 2016

Despite cohabitation becoming increasingly equivalent to marriage in some of the most ‘advanced’ Western European societies, the vast majority of people still marry. Why so? Existing theories, mostly based on various approaches tied to cognitive decision‐making, do not provide a sufficient explanation of the persistence of marriage. In this article, we argue that feelings attached to marriage, i.e. the affective evaluation of those involved in a partner relationship concerning marriage as opposed to cohabitation, explain the persistent importance of marriage as an institution. We argue that socialization, biological and social‐structural factors affect these affective evaluations. We provide a test of our hypotheses using a longitudinal study of young adults in the Netherlands. The results of our analyses are consistent with a central role of feelings in the decision to marry, as well as with a role for key moderating factors such as gender.
The Demand for Post‐Katrina Disaster Aid:SBADisaster Loans and Small Businesses in Mississippi
Authors: Josephson Anna , Marshall Maria I.
Published: July 2016

Following Hurricane Katrina, the United States government provided billions of dollars in loans to repair the damage caused by the hurricane. However, the specifics surrounding demand for these loans and the process of application and approval for Small Business Administration (SBA) loans have yet to be fully examined. We analyse the demand of small businesses for such loans and delve into the factors which are associated with success in obtaining loan funds following disaster. Results indicate several factors are important in all of the stages of the loan process: the income of the business, whether the business had insurance or received money in an insurance claim and the gender of the business owner.
Chemical Characterization and Cytotoxic Activity of Blueberry Extracts (cv. Misty) Cultivated in Brazil
Authors: Massarotto Giovana , Barcellos Thiago , Garcia Charlene Silvestrin Celi , Brandalize Ana Paula Carneiro , Moura Sidnei , Schwambach Joséli , Henriques João Antonio Pêgas , Roesch‐Ely Mariana
Published: July 2016

Vaccinium corymbosum (L.) varieties cultivation is relatively recent in Brazil, but its production has been intensified given its good adaptability to the Southern Brazil climate. Blueberries are a rich source of phenolic compounds and contain significant levels of anthocyanins, flavonols, chlorogenic acids, and procyanidins, which lead to different biological activities. Chemical identification of skin and whole hydroalcoholic blueberry extracts (ExtSB and ExtWB) revealed the presence of anthocyanins concentrated in the skin and others chemicals compounds as quercetin glycosides, proanthocyanins dimers, citric, and chlorogenic acid in the pulp. Selectivity for tumor cell lines (Hep‐2, HeLa, HT‐29) using ExtSB and ExtWB extracts was observed through MTT (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay after 24 h of treatment when compared to nontumor cells (MRC‐5). Morphological changes and late stages of apoptotic and necrosis process were seen in HT‐29 cell line after ExtWB treatment, compared to nontumor cell line MRC‐5. These results are in agreement with other studies that indicate the activity of compounds such as anthocyanins and other molecules found in Southern Highbush blueberry variety, attributed to promote beneficial effects on health that may respond as cytotoxic natural agent and contribute to cancer treatment.
Counter‐terrorism, Smart Power and the United States
Authors: Eadie Pauline
Published: July 2016

This article examines smart power, specifically in relation to US counter‐terrorism initiatives, focusing on US foreign aid as a soft power instrument. Economic aid and military aid are disbursed under the auspices of USAID and the military is tasked with soft and hard power strategies that have proven problematic to manage as ‘an integrated grand strategy’. Identifying variables that accurately indicate the success or otherwise of smart power as a counter‐terror strategy is problematic. Nevertheless a tentative correlation can be drawn between high levels of US aid and low levels of trust in the US in frontline Islamic states. This has led to slippage between hard and soft power and un‐smart policy. Consequently a gap has emerged between what the US hopes that the international community will respond to in terms of smart power as a counter‐terror initiative and what actually happens. The US has tended to revert to hard power tools in the face of this gap. I argue that foreign aid must not only be soft but ‘sticky’ in order for smart power strategies to succeed.
Moderate‐ to long‐term periodontal outcomes of subjects failing to complete a course of periodontal therapy
Authors: Goh V , Hackmack PP , Corbet EF , Leung WK
Published: July 2016

Background

The current retrospective cross‐sectional study investigated 5–18‐year treatment outcomes in subjects who did not complete a recommended course of periodontal therapy.

Methods

Sixty‐five subjects who voluntarily discontinued therapy were recalled. The subjects’ demographic data and dental history since discontinuation of periodontal treatment were collected via questionnaires. The subjects’ periodontal condition, radiographic data and individual tooth‐based prognosis at pre‐discontinuation and recall were compared.

Results

A total of 229 teeth had been lost over time, mainly due to periodontal reasons. Upper and lower molars were most frequently lost. Rate of tooth loss (0.38/patient per year) was comparable to untreated patients. Deterioration in periodontal health in terms of increased percentage of sites with bleeding on probing (BOP) and sites with probing pocket depths (PPD) of 6 mm or more at re‐examination was observed. Positive correlations were found between tooth loss and: (i) years since therapy discontinued; (ii) percentage of sites with PPD of 6 mm or more at pre‐discontinuation; and (iii) at re‐examination. Percentage of sites with PPD of 6 mm or more at recall was positively correlated with periodontal tooth loss and negatively correlated with percentage of sites without BOP.

Conclusions

Patients not completing a course of periodontal therapy are at risk of further tooth loss and deterioration in periodontal conditions over time.
Elevated transaminase levels among overweight adolescents in eastern China
Authors: Shi Zumin , Chen Wenying , Taylor Anne , Burt Alastair
Published: July 2016

Aim

We aim to investigate the prevalence and correlates of suspected nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) among adolescents in eastern China.

Methods

The study uses data from the annual health examination among all students finishing high school who applied for university entrance in Changzhou City between 2012 and 2014 (n = 19 162). Suspected NAFLD was defined as overweight plus elevated alanine aminotransferase levels (males >25.8 U/L; females >22.1 U/L).

Results

The prevalence of suspected NAFLD was 6.9% (11.1% in males and 2.6% in females). Students from medium and high socio‐economic status (SES) schools had a higher prevalence of suspected NAFLD than those from low SES schools. Prehypertension had similar odds ratios (ORs, above four) for suspected NAFLD in both genders. The positive association between impaired fasting glucose/diabetes and suspected NAFLD was stronger in females than males. Compared with those born in autumn, these born in spring (OR 1.39; 95% CI, 1.16–1.67) and winter (OR 1.24; 95% CI, 1.04–1.49) had increased odds to have suspected NAFLD in males but not in females.

Conclusion

Suspected NAFLD was prevalent among urban university applicants especially in males and those of high SES. Prehypertension was positively related to suspected NAFLD. Season of birth was related to suspected NAFLD in males but not in females.
Embodied urban political ecology: five propositions
Authors: Doshi Sapana
Published: July 2016

This commentary makes a case for a more rigorous treatment of the body as a material and political site within the sub‐field of urban political ecology. I propose an embodied urban political ecology grounded in a feminist, anti‐racist and postcolonial approach consisting of five orienting propositions. They include attention to metabolism, social reproduction, intersectionality and articulation, emotion and affect, and political subjectivity. Although applicable to political ecology broadly, I focus on the urban because of how often the body is mobilised in conceptualisations of cities and infrastructure despite the fact that material embodiment remains under‐studied and disparately theorised in the subfield. I suggest that theoretical and empirical attention to embodiment in these five key arenas can deepen understandings of the terrain of environmental politics and potential transformation within the subfield of urban political ecology.
What is known and unknown about chemotherapy‐related cognitive impairment in patients with haematological malignancies and areas of needed research
Authors: Williams Annalynn M. , Zent Clive S. , Janelsins Michelle C.
Published: July 2016

Cancer‐related cognitive impairment (CRCI) is an important clinical problem for cancer patients and survivors. In this review, we summarize studies investigating the occurrence of impaired cognition in patients with haematological malignancies. Most published studies focus on survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and primary central nervous system lymphoma. We also discuss studies conducted in acute myeloid leukaemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, chronic myeloid leukaemia, Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), non‐HL and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. Although research in this area is still emerging, it appears that a subset of chemotherapy‐treated haematological malignancy survivors experience CRCI. Future research should focus on expanding the literature reviewed here with larger studies appropriately powered to assess cognition via objective and subjective measures in a longitudinal fashion to tease apart the impact of disease and the various forms of cancer treatment.
Phase I metabolites of mephedrone display biological activity as substrates at monoamine transporters
Authors: Mayer F P , Wimmer L , Dillon‐Carter O , Partilla J S , Burchardt N V , Mihovilovic M D , Baumann M H , Sitte H H
Published: July 2016

Background and Purpose

4‐Methyl‐N‐methylcathinone (mephedrone) is a synthetic stimulant that acts as a substrate‐type releaser at transporters for dopamine (DAT), noradrenaline (NET) and 5‐HT (SERT). Upon systemic administration, mephedrone is metabolized to several phase I compounds: the N‐demethylated metabolite, 4‐methylcathinone (nor‐mephedrone); the ring‐hydroxylated metabolite, 4‐hydroxytolylmephedrone (4‐OH‐mephedrone); and the reduced keto‐metabolite, dihydromephedrone.

Experimental Approach

We used in vitro assays to compare the effects of mephedrone and synthetically prepared metabolites on transporter‐mediated uptake and release in HEK293 cells expressing human monoamine transporters and in rat brain synaptosomes. In vivo microdialysis was employed to examine the effects of i.v. metabolite injection (1 and 3 mg·kg−1) on extracellular dopamine and 5‐HT levels in rat nucleus accumbens.

Key Results

In cells expressing transporters, mephedrone and its metabolites inhibited uptake, although dihydromephedrone was weak overall. In cells and synaptosomes, nor‐mephedrone and 4‐OH‐mephedrone served as transportable substrates, inducing release via monoamine transporters. When administered to rats, mephedrone and nor‐mephedrone produced elevations in extracellular dopamine and 5‐HT, whereas 4‐OH‐mephedrone did not. Mephedrone and nor‐mephedrone, but not 4‐OH‐mephedrone, induced locomotor activity.

Conclusions and Implications

Our results demonstrate that phase I metabolites of mephedrone are transporter substrates (i.e. releasers) at DAT, NET and SERT, but dihydromephedrone is weak in this regard. When administered in vivo, nor‐mephedrone increases extracellular dopamine and 5‐HT in the brain whereas 4‐OH‐mephedrone does not, suggesting the latter metabolite does not penetrate the blood–brain barrier. Future studies should examine the pharmacokinetics of nor‐mephedrone to determine its possible contribution to the in vivo effects produced by mephedrone.
Reducing Children's Implicit Racial Bias Through Exposure to Positive Out‐Group Exemplars
Authors: Gonzalez Antonya M. , Steele Jennifer R. , Baron Andrew S.
Published: July 2016

Studies with adults suggest that implicit preferences favoring White versus Black individuals can be reduced through exposure to positive Black exemplars. However, it remains unclear whether developmental differences exist in the capacity for these biases to be changed. This study included 369 children and examined whether their implicit racial bias would be reduced following exposure to positive Black exemplars. Results showed that children's implicit pro‐White bias was reduced following exposure to positive Black exemplars, but only for older children (Mage = ~10 years). Younger children's (Mage = ~7 years) implicit bias was not affected by this intervention. These results suggest developmental differences in the malleability of implicit racial biases and point to possible age differences in intervention effectiveness.
Clinical Investigation and Patient Satisfaction of Short Implants Versus Longer Implants with Osteotome Sinus Floor Elevation in Atrophic Posterior Maxillae: A Pilot Randomized Trial
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Meng , Shi Jun‐Yu , Gu Ying‐Xin , Qiao Shi‐Chong , Mo Jia‐Ji , Lai Hong‐Chang
Published: July 2016

Purpose

The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical parameters and patient satisfaction of the treatments with short implants compared to longer implants with osteotome sinus floor elevation (OSFE) in atrophic posterior maxillae.

Materials and Method

The patient data were retrieved from an ongoing randomized controlled trial (NCT02350075). Patients were randomly allocated into three groups: (group1: short‐6 mm implant, group 2: short‐8‐mm implant with OSFE, group 3: standard‐10 mm implant with OSFE). Early implant failure, complications, implant stability quotient (ISQ) and patient satisfaction by means of visual analogue scale (VAS) were evaluated. ANOVA analysis was performed for the data comparison.

Results

Fifty‐six patients were enrolled in the present study. No implant loss was found by the end of the restoration placement. No significant difference of ISQ values was found among three groups at the time of implant surgery and impression taking (p = .67 and.54, respectively). VAS values regarding intraoperative vibratory sense in group 1 were significantly higher than those in group 3 (p = .01).

Conclusion

All three treatments were safe in atrophic posterior maxilla (6 mm ≤ residual bone height < 8 mm). Patients were satisfied with all three treatments, while the malleting during the osteotome procedure could make patients feel uncomfortable.
Three Misunderstandings of Plato's Theory of Moral Education
Authors: Jonas Mark E.
Published: July 2016

In this essay, Mark Jonas argues that there are three broadly held misconceptions of Plato's philosophy that work against his relevance for contemporary moral education. The first is that he is an intellectualist who is concerned only with the cognitive aspect of moral development and does not sufficiently emphasize the affective and conative aspects; the second is that he is an elitist who believes that only philosopher‐kings can attain true knowledge of virtue and it is they who should govern society; the third is that he affirms the realm of the Forms as a literal metaphysical reality and believes that for individuals to attain virtue they must access this realm through contemplation. The goal of this essay is to correct these misconceptions. The rehabilitation of Plato's reputation may enable future researchers in moral education to discover in his philosophy new avenues for exploring how best to cultivate virtues in students.
The Educator's Dual Role: Expressing Ideals While Educating in Nonideal Conditions
Authors: Morton Jennifer M.
Published: July 2016

In this essay, Jennifer Morton discusses educators as central examples of agents who engage in ideal and nonideal ways of thinking. The educator, as a representative of the political community, is tasked with two aims. The first is nurturing students with the skills and knowledge they need for the world as they will find it. In pursuing this goal, the educator is assuming certain social facts, some of them unjust, that constitute the present nonideal world. The second aim is civic — educating future citizens. Insofar as the educator is involved in pursuing this goal, his or her role is to work at making certain future social facts true, in the hope of making the future slightly more ideal. Morton argues that if we think of these two aims instrumentally, they can come into conflict. She does not suggest a resolution to this conflict, but rather develops an alternative expressive account of the civic role of the educator. Ideal thinking by educators, Morton maintains, should be thought of as constituting an expression of respect toward their fellow citizens here and now. Ultimately, she argues that this expressive component of the educator's job is crucial to the educator's role in the political community.
The MOOC and the Multitude
Authors: Curinga Matthew X.
Published: July 2016

Massive open online courses (MOOCs) take university lectures and other educational materials and make them available for free as online “courses.” Liberal and neoliberal MOOC supporters laud these courses for opening up education to the world while incorporating market dynamics to improve quality and drive down costs. Skeptics claim MOOCs are a bald attempt to privatize higher learning, thus creating an apartheid educational system with traditional universities serving the wealthy while everyone else is left with cut‐rate online learning. This essay draws on the political theory of autonomist Marxism, arguing that MOOCs are capital's defensive reaction to the threats of resistant universities on one side, and unmanageable Internet‐based learning on the other. It then looks at which MOOC designs would support education for the “multitude,” which is the term used by autonomist Marxism to describe an autonomous, diverse, networked political body.
The Dangers of Pipeline Thinking: How the School‐To‐Prison Pipeline Metaphor Squeezes Out Complexity
Authors: McGrew Ken
Published: July 2016

In this essay Ken McGrew critically examines the school‐to‐prison pipeline metaphor and associated literature. The origins and influence of the metaphor are compared with the origins and influence of the competing prison industrial complex concept. Specific weaknesses in the pipeline literature are examined. These problems are described as resulting, in part, from the influence that the pipeline metaphor has on the thinking of those who follow it. McGrew argues that addressing the weaknesses in the literature, abandoning the metaphor, and adopting a more complex theoretical orientation grounded in critical scholarship, will enable educational scholars to better capture the relational nature of the social phenomena being described while simultaneously making their work more useful to emerging movements for social justice.
Host record of the myrmecophilous carabid genus Cryptocephalomorpha (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Pseudomorphinae) with description of a new species from Thailand
Authors: Maruyama Munetoshi , Komatsu Takashi , Sakchoowong Watana
Published: July 2016

Cryptocephalomorpha siamensis sp. nov. is described from Thailand. The type series was collected from a nest of myrmicine ant, Pheidole singaporensis, which is the first exact host record of the genus Cryptocephalomorpha. Collecting circumstances and observed behavior are reported.
Taxonomic review of the genus Zethus Fabricius (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Eumeninae) from Vietnam with descriptions of four new species
Authors: Nguyen Lien Thi Phuong , Carpenter James M.
Published: July 2016

A taxonomic review of the genus Zethus from Vietnam is presented, including eight species. Four species, Z. tumidus sp. nov., Z. tansoneus sp. nov., Z. angulatus sp. nov. and Z. propodeus sp. nov. are described. Two species, Z. malayanus and Z. trimaculatus, are recorded from Vietnam for the first time. Redescriptions of Z. dolosus and Z. trimaculatus are also provided with figures. A key to species is presented.
Effect of silica coating on the bond strength of milled pure titanium to dental porcelain
Authors: Ye Jiantao , Ye Xiuhua , Chang Shaohai , Liu Lang , Zhang Yiping , Lin Shiyao
Published: July 2016

The creation of a high bond strength between machined computer‐manufactured pure titanium and porcelain remains problematic, and the effects of a silica coating on the bond strength of milled pure titanium bonded to dental porcelain require further investigation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the bond strength of machined pure titanium, with an intermediate coating of silica, to dental porcelain. In this work, 24 specimens of milled pure titanium were prepared and randomly divided into test and control groups, in which the test group was coated with silica using the sol‐gel dipping technique. The metal–ceramic bond strength was evaluated, according to ISO 9693 standards, using the three‐point bending test, and scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive spectroscopy were used to study the microstructure and elemental composition of the specimens. The bonding strength of the silica‐coated group was significantly higher than that of the control group, and more residual porcelain on the metal surface could be observed in the silica‐coated group. Therefore, the application of a silica intermediate coating produced using the sol‐gel method could significantly improve the bond strength between machined pure titanium and porcelain.
The diagnostic utility of 3D‐ESI rotating and moving dipole methodology in the pre‐surgical evaluation of MRI‐negative childhood epilepsy due to focal cortical dysplasia
Authors: Russo Angelo , Lallas Matt , Jayakar Prasanna , Miller Ian , Hyslop Ann , Dunoyer Catalina , Resnick Trevor , Duchowny Michael
Published: July 2016

Objective

This study investigates whether a combined rotating dipole (RD) and moving dipole (MD) solution enhances three‐dimensional electroencephalography (EEG) source imaging (3D‐ESI) localization in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–negative pediatric patients with focal cortical dysplasia (FCD).

Methods

We retrospectively selected 14 MRI‐negative patients with FCD from a cohort of 60 pediatric patients previously used to evaluate the diagnostic utility of 3D‐ESI in epilepsy surgery. Patients were younger than 18 years at time of surgery and had at least 1 year of outcome data. RD and MD models were constructed for each interictal spike or sharp wave, and it was determined whether each inverse algorithm localized within the surgical resection cavity (SRC). We also compared the 3D‐ESI findings and surgical outcome with positron emission tomography (PET) and ictal single photon emission computed tomography (iSPECT).

Results

RD analyses revealed a high concordance with the SRC (78.6%), particularly for temporal lobe resection (100.0%), and showed superior localization compared to PET and iSPECT, with the highest correlation in FCD type I and temporal lobe resection. Furthermore, the RD method was superior to iSPECT in FCD type II cases and to PET in extratemporal resections. RD and MD results were comparable, but in 18.2% of patients with FCD type I with localizing RDs, the MD solution was only partially within the SRC; in all of these patients 3D‐ESI also correlated with superior surgical outcome compared to PET and iSPECT, especially when RD and MD solutions were analyzed together.

Significance

3D‐ESI in MRI‐negative cases showed superior localization compared to iSPECT or PET, especially in FCD type I and temporal lobe epilepsy, and correlated with superior surgical outcome compared to iSPECT and PET at 1 year and 2 years postoperatively, especially when RD and MD solutions were analyzed together. These findings suggest that 3D‐ESI based on a combined RD‐MD solution improves surgical accuracy in MRI‐negative patients with FCD.
Headache, neck manipulation and stroke: the atlanto‐axial triad
Authors: Homola Samuel
Published: July 2016

Discussion of neck manipulation generates controversy and raises many questions. To date, the prevailing medical opinion is that upper neck manipulation is unsafe. Many case reports associating neck manipulation with stroke provide good reason not to recommend or submit to upper neck manipulation. Headache is one of the most common conditions treated by manipulating the upper cervical spine where vertebral and internal carotid arteries are most susceptible to injury that may curtail flow of blood to the brain. Physicians and lay persons who have questions about the benefits and dangers of neck manipulation may find this article helpful in evaluating relevant literature that may be confusing or flawed by confirmation bias and misinformation.
The flexibility of a homeodomain transcription factor heterodimer and its allosteric regulation by DNA binding
Authors: Mathiasen Lisa , Valentini Erica , Boivin Stephane , Cattaneo Angela , Blasi Francesco , Svergun Dmitri I. , Bruckmann Chiara
Published: July 2016

Transcription factors are known to modify the DNA that they bind. However, DNA can also serve as an allosteric ligand whose binding modifies the conformation of transcriptional regulators. Here, we describe how heterodimer PBX1:PREP1, formed by proteins playing major roles in embryonic development and tumorigenesis, undergoes an allosteric transition upon DNA binding. We demonstrate through a number of biochemical and biophysical methods that PBX1:PREP1 exhibits a structural change upon DNA binding. Small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS), circular dichroism (CD), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), and limited proteolysis demonstrate a different shape, α‐helical content, thermodynamic behavior, and solution environment of the holo‐complex (with DNA) compared to the apo‐complex (without DNA). Given that PBX1 as such does not have a defined DNA selectivity, structural changes upon DNA binding become major factors in the function of the PBX1:PREP1 complex. The observed changes are mapped at both the amino‐ and carboxy‐terminal regions of the two proteins thereby providing important insights to determine how PBX1:PREP1 dimer functions.

Database

Small‐angle scattering data are available in SASBDB under accession numbers SASDAP7, SASDAQ7, and SASDAR7.
Spatial dynamics of juvenile anchovy in the Bay of Biscay
Authors: Boyra Guillermo , Peña Marian , Cotano Unai , Irigoien Xabier , Rubio Anna , Nogueira Enrique
Published: July 2016

In autumn 2009, the implementation of two successive acoustic surveys targeting juvenile anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) in the Bay of Biscay allowed us to monitor the changes in the spatial distribution and aggregation patterns of juveniles of this species during 45 days under fairly stable meteorological conditions. Juvenile anchovy changed its biological condition and behavior in a different manner in two distinct areas. In the Spanish sector, the juveniles migrated 20 nautical miles (n.mi.) towards the coast, but they remained on the shelf and near the surface during the whole surveyed period. As the advance towards the shelf break progressed, their area of distribution decreased, their density increased and the juveniles spread in fewer but heavier shoals. In the French sector, the juveniles also migrated from slope waters towards the coast at a similar velocity, but they crossed the shelf break into the continental shelf, where they increased their mean depth significantly until gradually adopting the typical nyctemeral migrations of adult anchovy. The mean length of the juveniles that adopted the nyctemeral migrations was significantly higher than that of the juveniles remaining at the surface, suggesting that body size is relevant to accomplish this change. Besides, the stronger temperature gradients between the shelf and oceanic waters in the Spanish sector, favored by a narrow shelf, may have acted as a barrier influencing the distinct observed spatial patterns in the two areas.
Exposure to a heat wave under food limitation makes an agricultural insecticide lethal: a mechanistic laboratory experiment
Authors: Dinh Khuong V. , Janssens Lizanne , Stoks Robby
Published: July 2016

Extreme temperatures and exposure to agricultural pesticides are becoming more frequent and intense under global change. Their combination may be especially problematic when animals suffer food limitation. We exposedCoenagrion puelladamselfly larvae to a simulated heat wave combined with food limitation and subsequently to a widespread agricultural pesticide (chlorpyrifos) in an indoor laboratory experiment designed to obtain mechanistic insights in the direct effects of these stressors in isolation and when combined. The heat wave reduced immune function (activity of phenoloxidase,PO) and metabolic rate (activity of the electron transport system,ETS). Starvation had both immediate and delayed negative sublethal effects on growth rate and physiology (reductions in Hsp70 levels, total fat content, and activity levels ofPOandETS). Exposure to chlorpyrifos negatively affected all response variables. While the immediate effects of the heat wave were subtle, our results indicate the importance of delayed effects in shaping the total fitness impact of a heat wave when followed by pesticide exposure. Firstly, the combination of delayed negative effects of the heat wave and starvation, and the immediate negative effect of chlorpyrifos considerably (71%) reduced larval growth rate. Secondly and more strikingly, chlorpyrifos only caused considerable (ca. 48%) mortality in larvae that were previously exposed to the combination of the heat wave and starvation. This strong delayed synergism for mortality could be explained by the cumulative metabolic depression caused by each of these stressors. Further studies with increased realism are needed to evaluate the consequences of the here‐identified delayed synergisms at the level of populations and communities. This is especially important as this synergism provides a novel explanation for the poorly understood potential of heat waves and of sublethal pesticide concentrations to cause mass mortality.