bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of free carbon on the Young's modulus and hardness of polymer‐derived silicon oxycarbide glasses
Authors: Sorarù Gian Domenico , Kundanati Lakshminath , Santhosh Balanand , Pugno Nicola
Published: October 2018

Silicon oxycarbide (SiOC) glasses in the form of thin, dense, and crack‐free samples were fabricated according to the polymer pyrolysis route starting from cross‐linked polysiloxane. The amount of free carbon in the final SiOC materials was varied in the range 18‐60 vol%. The mechanical properties of the SiOC glasses were measured by nanoindentaion technique and revealed that both the Young's modulus and the hardness decrease with increase in the free carbon content and follow a simple rule of mixtures model.
Eggshell spotting pattern is related to hatching asynchrony, hematocrit value and growth of nestling great titsParus major
Authors: Hargitai Rita , Herényi Márton , Nagy Gergely , Török János
Published: October 2018

Eggshell pigmentation may signal the quality of the egg, that of the female and the environment, and thus nestling development may be related to this egg trait. However, so far, few studies have investigated the relationship between eggshell pigmentation and nestling development. Our aim was to study in a partial cross‐fostering experiment whether the protoporphyrin‐based eggshell pigmentation (spot intensity and spot distribution) showed any significant associations with several traits related to the development of nestling great titsParus major. We found that nestlings from clutches with darker spotted eggshells hatched more synchronously, had higher hematocrit value and shorter wings. Females under adverse environmental circumstances were previously shown to lay darker‐spotted eggs, and these females probably delayed the start of incubation due to energetic constraints, resulting in a more synchronous hatching. The shorter wings of fledglings originating from clutches with darker‐spotted eggs may be caused by the lower general quality of their mothers, mediated through either genetic factors or early maternal effects. Darker spotted eggs may contain different levels of some biomolecules than paler spotted eggs, which could have an effect on nestling metabolism and activity, resulting in an elevated hematocrit value. More aggregated eggshell spotting was related to faster bone growth and slightly longer fledging tarsus length. Eggs with aggregated spotting may have thinner eggshells that could lead to hatchlings with smaller bones due to the lower availability of calcium during development. Nestlings may increase bone growth rate to compensate for their smaller initial size. Overall, our results indirectly suggest lower fitness for nestlings hatched from darker spotted eggs and for nestlings hatched from eggs with more aggregated spotting distribution due to the possible long‐term costs of synchronous hatching, shorter wings, and accelerated tarsus growth rate.
Symmetrical acral keratoderma revisited: proposal for a new term, ‘pigmented carpotarsal hyperkeratosis’
Authors: Chen W. , Song Z. , Yang C.‐C. , Hao F.
Published: October 2018

First reported from Taiwan mistakenly as acral acanthosis nigricans in 1991, pigmented carpotarsal hyperkeratosis or hyperkeratosis nigricans carpi et tarsi displays a peculiar distribution of velvety brown‐grey hyperpigmented plaques symmetrically on the flexural side of the wrists and ankles and on the dorsal sides of the hands and feet. A marked epidermal hyperkeratosis with typically mild acanthosis and papillomatosis is observed in histology. Whitish maceration upon perspiration or water exposure, with exacerbation in summer but remission in winter, is common. The association with obesity, endocrine disorders, atopic dermatitis, ichthyosis or malignancy is unknown. Familial occurrence and hereditary patterns are ill‐defined. There is preliminary evidence indicating a pathogenic role of missense mutation in the transcription factor 4 gene. Treatment is empirical, with good outcome with topical retinoids and keratolytic agents. Recurrence is common, and long‐term prognosis is unclear. To be distinguished are acral acanthosis nigricans, palmoplantar keratoderma of the Nagashima type, palmoplantar keratoderma of the Bothnian type and aquagenic palmoplantar keratoderma. Most reported cases are from Southern China and are predominantly observed in men between the ages of 20 and 40 years. The currently used term ‘symmetrical acral keratoderma’ is non‐specific and misleading and may lead to global unawareness, underreporting or misdiagnosis of this phenomenon. Further genetic and molecular studies are required to clarify its pathogenesis and relation to palmoplantar keratoderma.
Isothiazolinone derivatives and allergic contact dermatitis: a review and update
Authors: Herman A. , Aerts O. , de Montjoye L. , Tromme I. , Goossens A. , Baeck M.
Published: October 2018

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) from isothiazolinones has frequently been described in the literature. Following an epidemic of sensitization to methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) in the 1980s, and more recently toMI, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety of the European Commission banned their use in leave‐on products, while restricting that in rinse‐off cosmetics. Despite a decreasing prevalence ofACDfromMCI/MIandMI, cases caused by occupational exposure and non‐cosmetic isothiazolinone sources are on the rise. Moreover, sensitization to newer and lesser known isothiazolinones has been reported. This paper reviews the epidemiology of contact allergy to different isothiazolinones, clinical presentation of isothiazolinone‐inducedACD, most relevant sensitization sources and potential cross‐reactions between isothiazolinone derivatives. It also provides an update on recent legislative measures.
The Provocative Effect of Law: Majority Nationalism and Minority Discrimination
Authors: Barak‐Corren Netta , Feldman Yuval , Gidron Noam
Published: October 2018

Western societies have experienced ethnic and religious diversification in recent decades. These demographic changes have been met by efforts to defend the local dominant culture using majority nationalism laws, intended to protect the cultural heritage of the majority. We empirically examine majority nationalism laws’ expressive effects on patterns of minority discrimination using the Israeli draft Nation Law (NL) as a case study. Drawing on two experimental surveys of a representative sample of the majority population of Israel (N = 602), our results lend weak support to the hypothesis that majority nationalism laws increase bias against minorities, and modest support to the hypothesis that such laws generate unintended spillover effects across different minority groups and from the public to the private sphere. Our main finding is that majority nationalism laws provoke a backlash reaction from those who oppose them. We define this as the provocative effect of law and discuss its relation to the expressive law theory. The results suggest that the effects of majority nationalism laws may vary systematically across ideological groups and spheres of discrimination.
Police Discretion and Racial Disparity in Organized Retail Theft Arrests: Evidence from Texas
Authors: Braun Michael , Rosenthal Jeremy , Therrian Kyle
Published: October 2018

When definitions of two distinct criminal offenses overlap, power to decide which definition to apply to an arrest devolves to local law enforcement agencies. This discretion can lead to unequal treatment and denial of due process, especially when disadvantaged populations are arrested for nonviolent property crimes. We present a Bayesian analysis of arrests under a vaguely worded statutory scheme for retail theft in Texas, in which a shoplifter who is guilty of property theft is also guilty of organized retail theft. Using arrest data from the Texas Department of Public Safety, we find wide variation across law enforcement agencies in initial charging categories, with black and Hispanic arrestees being charged for the more serious crime more often than white arrestees. The racial discrepancy is greater for agencies serving cities with higher per‐capita income. These results highlight consequences of ambiguous provisions of criminal codes and suggest a method for identifying agencies whose policies may have disparate impact across racial and ethnic groups.
Successful use of “Choice Architecture” and “Nudge Theory” in a quality improvement initiative of analgesia administration after Caesarean section
Authors: Shakespeare Tim , Fehlberg Michelle , Slejko Tiffany , Taylor Julie , Srbinovska Irina , Bolsin Stephen
Published: October 2018

Background

Regular, routine, multimodal analgesia provides better pain relief following Caesarean section than reliance on “as required” opiate dosing. This quality improvement report describes the effective use of an education programme coupled with a highlighted, preprinted medication chart, employing “Nudge Theory” principles to achieve significant improvements in the administration of analgesic medications to patients after Caesarean section operations.

Problem

An acute pain service audit identified a serious deficiency with delivery of regular postoperative analgesic medications to patients following Caesarean section operations.

Methods

An audit of pain medication delivery to patients following Caesarean section demonstrated that postoperative analgesia was not being administered in line with local prescribing guidelines. Two interventions were planned:

Education sessions for anaesthetic recovery and ward staff.

Introduction of a new preprinted and highlighted medication chart.

A postintervention audit was then conducted.

Results

There were statistically significant improvements in all medications administered to patients following the two interventions. For analgesic medications, the rate of administration of drugs in compliance with guidelines rose from 39.6% to 89.9% (P < 0.001 using 2‐sample z test). Each subgroup of medications also showed statistically significant improvements in administration compliance.

Conclusion

A combined approach, including application of “Nudge Theory” to the administration of analgesic medication after Caesarean section, considerably improved delivery of medications prescribed for postoperative analgesia.
Staining potential differences between an infiltrative resin and an esthetic, flowable composite
Authors: Silva Stephanie N. , Reich Alena M. , DeLeon Eladio , Schafer Tara , Rueggeberg Frederick A. , Fortson Weston M.
Published: October 2018

Objective

To compare color change magnitude of an infiltrative resin and a flowable composite resin after immersion in commonly consumed beverages.

Materials and Methods

Disks (1 × 9 mm) of a flowable composite (Filtek Supreme Ultra Flowable) and a resin‐infiltrative product (Icon) were made. Specimens were dark‐stored in tap water (24 hours). Baseline color parameters (CIE L*a*b*) were obtained using a colorimeter (Easyshade V4, VITA). Specimens were immersed (dark stored, 37°C, 1 week) in commercial beverages: Kool‐Aid, coffee, Coca‐Cola, and tap water (control). ΔE00 between final and baseline conditions for each material/beverage combination was determined (N = 10/group). Initial analysis of variance indicated significant impact of major factors/interactions on ΔE00. Subsequently, t‐tests between ΔE00 values of restorative materials within each beverage was performed: alpha 0.05.

Results

Kool‐Aid produced the greatest color change for flowable composite, with a ΔE00 significantly greater than the infiltrative product. No significant ΔE00 differences were noted between products immersed in coffee, however color parameters causing these differences were not similar. Water or Coca‐Cola immersion showed lowest ΔE00 values for both materials, considered visually imperceptible: ΔE00 values <0.8.

Conclusions

Color change potential of infiltrative resin or resin composite was highly dependent on beverage type, with no general trends observed in which material was affected more.

Clinical Significance

Staining potential of an infiltrative restorative resin differs from that of a filled, flowable composite material on a beverage‐by‐beverage basis. The potential for color change seems not related to the presence or absence of fillers in the restorative material.
Stronger effects of heterozygosity on survival in harsher environments
Authors: Vincenzi Simone , Jesenšek Dušan , Garza John C. , Crivelli Alain J.
Published: October 2018

The hypothesis that the effects of heterozygosity vary with environmental conditions was tested using six populations of marble trout Salmo marmoratus from western Slovenia as a model system. The hypotheses tested were: stronger effects of heterozygosity on survival in populations characterized by low average survival; no effects of heterozygosity on probability of surviving flash floods owing to their largely non‐selective effects across traits; stronger effects of heterozygosity on survival for fish born after floods than fish born before. A significant effect of heterozygosity on survival was found in populations characterized by low average survival. There were no effects of heterozygosity on probability of surviving flash floods, but in one population a positive correlation between heterozygosity and survival for fish born after the extreme events was found, probably because crowding in a small section of the stream caused more intense competition for resources.
Changes in gene and genotype frequencies during the development of the grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella
Authors: He LiB. , Xiong Lv , Zhang AiD. , Li YongM. , Huang Rong , Liao LanJ. , Zhu ZuoY. , Wang YaP.
Published: October 2018

In this study, a full‐sib population of Ctenopharyngodon idella was constructed and approximately 500 C. idella individuals were sampled at four early developmental stages (hatching, first feeding, juvenile fish and young fish). Four DNA pools were constructed and subjected to next‐generation sequencing. On the basis of the identification of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP), changes in gene and genotype frequencies during the developmental progress of C. idella were revealed, which indicates that death during the early developmental stage is not a random process. These findings will establish the basis for further studies performed for identifying superior alleles or genotypes as target markers for molecular breeding.
Development of a Clinically Feasible Process for Identifying Individual Health Priorities
Authors: Naik Aanand D. , Dindo Lilian N. , Van Liew Julia R. , Hundt Natalie E. , Vo Lauren , Hernandez‐Bigos Kizzy , Esterson Jessica , Geda Mary , Rosen Jonathan , Blaum Caroline S. , Tinetti Mary E.
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To develop a values‐based, clinically feasible process to help older adults identify health priorities that can guide clinical decision‐making.

Design

Prospective development and feasibility study.

Setting

Primary care practice in Connecticut.

Participants

Older adults with 3 or more conditions or taking 10 or more medications (N=64).

Intervention

The development team of patients, caregivers, and clinicians used a user‐centered design framework—ideate → prototype → test →redesign—to develop and refine the value‐based patient priorities care process and medical record template with trained clinician facilitators.

Measurements

We used descriptive statistics of quantitative measures (percentage accepted invitation and completed template, duration of process) and qualitative analysis of barriers and enablers (challenges and solutions identified, facilitator perceptions).

Results

We developed and refined a process for identifying patient health priorities that was typically completed in 35 to 45 minutes over 2 sessions; 64 patients completed the process. Qualitative analyses were used to elucidate the characteristics and training needed for the patient priorities facilitators, as well as perceived benefits and challenges of the process. Refinements based on our experience and feedback include streamlining the process for greater feasibility, balancing fidelity to the process while customizing to individuals, encouraging patients to share their priorities with their clinicians, and simplifying the template transmitted to clinicians.

Conclusion

Trained facilitators conducted this process in a busy primary care practice, suggesting that patient priorities identification is feasible and acceptable, although testing in additional settings is necessary. We hope to show that clinicians can align care with patients' health priorities.
Feasibility of Implementing Patient Priorities Care for Older Adults with Multiple Chronic Conditions
Authors: Blaum Caroline S. , Rosen Jonathan , Naik Aanand D. , Smith Cynthia D. , Dindo Lilian , Vo Lauren , Hernandez‐Bigos Kizzy , Esterson Jessica , Geda Mary , Ferris Rosie , Costello Darce , Acampora Denise , Meehan Thomas , Tinetti Mary E.
Published: October 2018

Older adults with multiple chronic conditions (MCCs) receive care that is fragmented and burdensome, lacks evidence, and most importantly is not focused on what matters most to them. An implementation feasibility study of Patient Priorities Care (PPC), a new approach to care that is based on health outcome goals and healthcare preferences, was conducted. This study took place at 1 primary care and 1 cardiology practice in Connecticut and involved 9 primary care providers (PCPs), 5 cardiologists, and 119 older adults with MCCs. PPC was implemented using methods based on a practice change framework and continuous plan‐do‐study‐act (PDSA) cycles. Core elements included leadership support, clinical champions, priorities facilitators, training, electronic health record (EHR) support, workflow development and continuous modification, and collaborative learning. PPC processes for clinic workflow and decision‐making were developed, and clinicians were trained. After 10 months, 119 older adults enrolled and had priorities identified; 92 (77%) returned to their PCP after priorities identification. In 56 (46%) of these visits, clinicians documented patient priorities discussions. Workflow challenges identified and solved included patient enrollment lags, EHR documentation of priorities discussions, and interprofessional communication. Time for clinicians to provide PPC remains a challenge, as does decision‐making, including clinicians' perceptions that they are already doing so; clinicians' concerns about guidelines, metrics, and unrealistic priorities; and differences between PCPs and patients and between PCPs and cardiologists about treatment decisions. PDSA cycles and continuing collaborative learning with national experts and peers are taking place to address workflow and clinical decision‐making challenges. Translating disease‐based to priorities‐aligned decision‐making appears challenging but feasible to implement in a clinical setting.
Association Between Cataract and Risks of Osteoporosis and Fracture: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Huang Huei‐Kai , Lin Shu‐Man , Loh Ching‐Hui , Wang Jen‐Hung , Liang Chung‐Chao
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the association between cataract and cataract surgery and risks of osteoporosis and fracture.

Design

Nationwide population‐based retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database.

Participants

Individuals with (n=57,972) and without (n=57,972) cataracts.

Measurements

Individuals with and without cataracts were matched 1:1 for age, sex, and index year. Those with cataracts were further divided into cataract surgery and nonsurgery groups. Incidences and hazard ratios (HR) for risks of developing osteoporosis and fracture were calculated using Cox proportional hazard regression models.

Results

During mean follow‐up of 6.4 years, 17,450 participants with cataracts and 12,627 without developed osteoporosis or fractures. Having cataracts was significantly associated with risk of developing osteoporosis or fracture (adjusted HR (aHR) = 1.29, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.25–1.32, p < .001). In analyses for each event, cataract was significantly associated with greater likelihood of all outcomes (osteoporosis: aHR = 1.43, 95% CI = 1.37–1.50, p < .001; hip fracture: aHR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.07–1.26, p < .001; vertebral fracture: (aHR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.18–1.33, p < .001; other fractures: aHR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.20–1.28, p < .001). Participants who underwent cataract surgery were at significantly lower risk of osteoporosis or fracture (aHR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.56–0.59, p < .001), than those who did not. Undergoing cataract surgery was also associated with lower risks of all individual events (osteoporosis; hip, vertebral, other fracture).

Conclusion

Cataract was independently associated with increased risks of osteoporosis and fracture. There might be an association between cataract surgery and lower risks of osteoporosis and fracture. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:254–260, 2019.
Putting Complex Older Persons First: How the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 2019 Payment Proposal Fails Older Americans
Authors: Lundebjerg Nancy E. , Jacobs Laurie G. , Trucil Daniel E. , Goldstein Alanna C. , Saliba Debra
Published: October 2018

In July 2018, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released its proposed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule rule for calendar year 2019 (MPFS2019). The proposal sets forth CMS‐recommended updates to Medicare payment policies, payment rates, and quality provisions for services provided in the next calendar year. From year to year, the rule also can serve as a vehicle for soliciting input on new payment proposals and changes to existing policies. Among the payment and quality proposals in the MPFS2019 proposal, CMS proposed extensive changes to Current Procedural Terminology codes that are the framework for documentation and payment for office‐based evaluation and management (E/M) services. The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) believes the proposed payment methodology changes for E/M services would have had a significant negative impact on care for older Americans. On September 10, 2018, the AGS submitted its comments on this proposal and other aspects of the rule, and the AGS also submitted a comment letter signed by 41 organizations from an AGS‐led multispecialty coalition. The coalition also worked collaboratively on outreach to Congress, which included visits to Capitol Hill and a coalition letter stressing our collective support for reducing the burden of documentation for clinicians and our opposition to the proposed changes in payment methodology. In all letters, we noted that the AGS and members of our coalition hoped to work collaboratively with CMS and other stakeholders to develop a refined approach that would achieve the best possible outcomes for patients, particularly frail older Americans with multiple chronic conditions. In releasing their final MPFS2019, CMS postponed the E/M coding collapse for at least two years, a decision that speaks to the hard work of the AGS, its members, and the multi‐specialty coalition, and which opens the door for further discussions about the future of payment for E/M services so critical to older people. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:145–150, 2019.
THE MEASUREMENT OF ABSORPTIVE CAPACITY FROM AN ECONOMICS PERSPECTIVE: DEFINITION, MEASUREMENT AND IMPORTANCE
Authors: Harris Richard , Yan Ji
Published: October 2018

This paper starts by recognizing that despite the importance of absorptive capacity, economists in particular have made only limited use of the concept. Most theoretical and empirical studies derive from other fields of research. Thus, the first task is to compare and contrast the different approaches taken in measuring absorptive capacity. The rest of the paper then sets out an example of how typically economists have proceeded, using nationally representative CIS data to measure absorptive capacity across a 10‐year period and investigating if it remains stable in the long term. This is followed by considering how firms’ characteristics vary across lower to higher levels of absorptive capacity and whether such capacity determines firms’ productivity performance across both goods and service industries. Our results show that relative to other influences, absorptive capacity as measured here — net of the impact of foreign‐ownership and human capital — has a substantial influence on exporting, innovation and undertaking R&D and thus consequently firm‐level productivity. Finally, there is a discussion of why governments should consider helping firms to boost their levels of absorptive capacity.
Shark Fin Titanium Hollow Bulb Obturator: A Treatment Concept
Authors: Kapadia Yash , Kurtz Kenneth S. , Jain Vinay , Pigliacelli Steven
Published: October 2018

Restoring esthetics and function for patients with maxillectomy defects presents a complex challenge for the clinician. Obturator prostheses are subject to rotational forces during function, allowing movement into the defect. Gaining prosthesis support from endosseous implants can limit the amount of rotation. Xerostomia and impaired tissue healing caused by radiation therapy further complicates the treatment for such patients. Several resilient and rigid obturator design concepts are available for restoration of such defects. This clinical report describes a design concept used to treat a patient with a maxillectomy defect caused by tumor resection secondary to a squamous cell carcinoma.
R‐spondin 2 promotes osteoblastic differentiation of immature human periodontal ligament cells through the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Arima Mai , Hasegawa Daigaku , Yoshida Shinichiro , Mitarai Hiromi , Tomokiyo Atsushi , Hamano Sayuri , Sugii Hideki , Wada Naohisa , Maeda Hidefumi
Published: October 2018

Objective

In this study, we measured the expression of R‐spondin 2 (RSPO2) in periodontal ligament (PDL) tissue and cells. Further, we examined the effects of RSPO2 on osteoblastic differentiation of immature human PDL cells (HPDLCs).

Background

R‐spondin (RSPO) family proteins are secreted glycoproteins that play important roles in embryonic development and tissue homeostasis through activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway. RSPO2, a member of the RSPO family, has been reported to enhance osteogenesis in mice. However, little is known regarding the roles of RSPO2 in PDL tissues.

Methods

Expression of RSPO2 in rat PDL tissue and primary HPDLCs was examined by immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining, as well as by semiquantitative RT‐PCR. The effects of stretch loading on the expression of RSPO2 and Dickkopf‐related protein 1 (DKK1) were assessed by quantitative RT‐PCR. Expression of receptors for RSPOs, such as Leucine‐rich repeat‐containing G‐protein‐coupled receptors (LGRs) 4, 5, and 6 in immature human PDL cells (cell line 2‐14, or 2‐14 cells), was investigated by semiquantitative RT‐PCR. Mineralized nodule formation in 2‐14 cells treated with RSPO2 under osteoblastic inductive condition was examined by Alizarin Red S and von Kossa stainings. Nuclear translocation of β‐catenin and expression of active β‐catenin in 2‐14 cells treated with RSPO2 were assessed by immunofluorescence staining and Western blotting analysis, respectively. In addition, the effect of Dickkopf‐related protein 1 (DKK1), an inhibitor of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling, was also examined.

Results

Rat PDL tissue and HPDLCs expressed RSPO2, and HPDLCs also expressed RSPO2, while little was found in 2‐14 cells. Expression of RSPO2 as well as DKK1 in HPDLCs was significantly upregulated by exposure to stretch loading. LGR4 was predominantly expressed in 2‐14 cells, which expressed low levels of LGR5 and LGR6. RSPO2 enhanced the Alizarin Red S and von Kossa‐positive reactions in 2‐14 cells. In addition, DKK1 suppressed nuclear translocation of β‐catenin, activation of β‐catenin, and increases of Alizarin Red S and von Kossa‐positive reactions in 2‐14 cells, all of which were induced by RSPO2 treatment.

Conclusion

RSPO2, which is expressed in PDL tissue and cells, might play an important role in regulating the osteoblastic differentiation of immature human PDL cells through the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway.
Gastrointestinal effects following acupuncture at Pericardium‐6 and Stomach‐36 in healthy dogs: a pilot study
Authors: Radkey D. I. , Writt V. E. , Snyder L. B. C. , Jones B. G. , Johnson R. A.
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To quantify changes in gastric and intestinal emptying times in the conscious dog following gastrointestinal acupoint stimulation.

Materials and Methods

In a randomised, blinded crossover study, six dogs were fed 30×1.5 mm barium‐impregnated polyethylene spheres and underwent: (1) no acupuncture (Control); (2) stimulation of target points PC6 and ST36 (Target) and (3) stimulation of non‐target points LU7 and BL55 (Sham). Abdominal radiographs were assessed immediately after feeding the spheres and every hour for 12 hours and their number in the stomach and large intestines was counted.

Results

The number of barium‐impregnated polyethylene spheres found distal to the stomach was less in the Target group compared to the Control and Sham groups between hours 2 and 4, but no differences between groups were seen for the remainder of the treatment period. The number of spheres found within the colon/rectum was less in the Target group compared to the Control and Sham groups between hours 4 and 6, and compared to the Sham group only at hour 7 but no differences between groups were seen after hour 8.

Clinical Significance

Acupuncture targeted at the gastrointestinal tract of dogs was associated briefly with slowed gastric emptying and gastrointestinal transit time. This foundational study lays the groundwork for additional studies of acupuncture effects associated with altered physiologic states.
The Religiosity of Academic Scientists in the United Kingdom: Assessing the Role of Discipline and Department Status
Authors: Ecklund Elaine Howard , Scheitle Christopher P. , Peifer Jared
Published: October 2018

Studies examining the religiosity of academic scientists have often focused on comparisons with the general population, overlooking dynamics that could lead to religiosity differences within the scientist population. Expanding this literature, we present data from a survey of religiosity among scientists in the United Kingdom. We compare biologists and physicists employed at elite and nonelite departments, as past research has suggested that disciplinary and status divisions could be salient in understanding differences in scientists’ religiosity. We find that biologists in the United Kingdom are more likely than physicists to say they never attend religious services. Similarly, U.K. scientists in elite departments are more likely than those in nonelite departments to say they never attend religious services. We do not find significant differences between disciplines or status types for more private measures of religion. We argue that these patterns could result from perceived conflicts between public religious practice and meeting professional norms.
Text Writing within Simple Sentences: A Writing Fluency Intervention for Students with High‐Incidence Disabilities
Authors: Datchuk Shawn M. , Rodgers Derek B.
Published: October 2018

Good sentence construction, the act of writing multiple words into sentence types that make semantic and syntactic sense, is needed for clear and meaningful written expression. The present study investigated the effects of a multi‐component writing intervention, sentence instruction and frequency building to a performance criterion, on the simple sentence construction of intermediate‐grade level students with high‐incidence disabilities. Four special education teachers delivered intervention to small groups of two students, a total of eight students, and assessed for retention. Overall results were positive but inconsistent across the small groups. Three of the four small groups improved their text writing within simple sentences during and following intervention, and moderate to large Tau‐U values for correct word sequences and for incorrect word sequences, respectively, were found. Results suggest that postinstruction writing fluency practice can be an effective part of writing intervention for intermediate‐grade level students with high‐incidence disabilities.
On morphological borrowing
Authors: Gardani Francesco
Published: October 2018

For virtually as long as linguists have studied contact‐induced grammatical change, the borrowing of morphological formatives and patterns has been considered a relatively infrequent phenomenon—a view which is reflected in all well‐known borrowability scales. Yet all those scales have been constructed from limited data sets, thus producing rather intuitive generalizations, for example, that inflection is more resistant to borrowing than derivation. In reality, we do not have a precise idea of the global extent of the phenomenon. In particular, the borrowing of compounding techniques is a virtually uninvestigated topic. In recent years, linguists have more intensively pursued a line of research that identifies in the study of contact‐induced change a source of evidence for the theory of grammar and aims to show that different degrees of borrowability reflect fine‐grained distinctions between subcomponents of morphology. The ever‐growing availability of comprehensive grammars and detailed case studies has supplied an adequate empirical basis to reach this goal.
Flexible Models for Stock Returns Based on Student'sTDistribution
Authors: Afuecheta Emmanuel , Chan Stephen , Nadarajah Saralees
Published: October 2018

Models based on the Student'stdistribution are proposed with its scale parameter randomized. Mathematical properties of the models such as their probability density functions, cumulative distribution functions, moments and characteristic functions are derived. Three of the models are fitted to daily log returns of six financial indices. They were shown to provide better fits than mixtures of Student'stdistributions and the popular generalized hyperbolic distribution.
Spectral properties and mineral compositions of acapulcoite–lodranite clan meteorites: Establishing S‐type asteroid–meteorite connections
Authors: Lucas Michael P. , Emery Joshua P. , Hiroi Takahiro , McSween Harry Y.
Published: October 2018

Except for asteroid sample return missions, measurements of the spectral properties of both meteorites and asteroids offer the best possibility of linking meteorite groups with their parent asteroid(s). Visible plus near‐infrared spectra reveal distinguishing absorption features controlled mainly by the Fe2+ contents and modal abundances of olivine and pyroxene. Meteorite samples provide relationships between spectra and mineralogy. These relationships are useful for estimating the olivine and pyroxene mineralogy of stony (S‐type) asteroid surfaces. Using a suite of 10 samples of the acapulcoite–lodranite clan (ALC), we have developed new correlations between spectral parameters and mafic mineral compositions for partially melted asteroids. A well‐defined relationship exists between Band II center and ferrosilite (Fs) content of orthopyroxene. Furthermore, because Fs in orthopyroxene and fayalite (Fa) content in olivine are well correlated in these meteorites, the derived Fs content can be used to estimate Fa of the coexisting olivine. We derive new equations for determining the mafic silicate compositions of partially melted S‐type asteroid parent bodies. Stony meteorite spectra have previously been used to delineate meteorite analog spectral zones in Band I versus band area ratio (BAR) parameter space for the establishment of asteroid–meteorite connections with S‐type asteroids. However, the spectral parameters of the partially melted ALC overlap with those of ordinary (H) chondrites in this parameter space. We find that Band I versus Band II center parameter space reveals a clear distinction between the ALC and the H chondrites. This work allows the distinction of S‐type asteroids as nebular (ordinary chondrites) or geologically processed (primitive achondrites).
The Influence of Social Contagion Within Education: A Motivational Perspective
Authors: Burgess Laura G. , Riddell Patricia M. , Fancourt Amy , Murayama Kou
Published: October 2018

This article provides an overview of research on social contagion in the context of education. We highlight the importance of students' social interactions in school, considering contagion between peers and contagion from teachers to students, using a motivation perspective. The framework of contagion is introduced broadly, followed by a focused review on social contagion in school environments, both peer and teacher related. Then we introduce methodology for mapping behavior change to networks that are a direct representation of school cohorts. We argue that these different lines of research can be coherently interpreted from a motivation perspective, suggesting the critical role of motivation in social contagion, in the context of education. We highlight the limited amount of research on positive contagion effects and we call for further investigation into ways in which to increase the contagion of positive, academic behaviors. Finally, the neuroscience behind social contagion, both for the mechanisms and the interactions, is discussed.
Polyamine‐independent growth and biofilm formation, and functional spermidine/spermine N‐acetyltransferases in Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Li Bin , Maezato Yukari , Kim Sok Ho , Kurihara Shin , Liang Jue , Michael Anthony J.
Published: October 2018

Polyamines such as spermidine and spermine are primordial polycations that are ubiquitously present in the three domains of life. We have found that Gram‐positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis have lost either all or most polyamine biosynthetic genes, respectively, and are devoid of any polyamine when grown in polyamine‐free media. In contrast to bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Campylobacter jejuni and Agrobacterium tumefaciens, which absolutely require polyamines for growth, S. aureus and E. faecalis grow normally over multiple subcultures in the absence of polyamines. Furthermore, S. aureus and E. faecalis form biofilms normally without polyamines, and exogenous polyamines do not stimulate growth or biofilm formation. High levels of external polyamines, including norspermidine, eventually inhibit biofilm formation through inhibition of planktonic growth. We show that spermidine/spermine N‐acetyltransferase (SSAT) homologues encoded by S. aureus USA300 and E. faecalis acetylate spermidine, spermine and norspermidine, that spermine is the more preferred substrate, and that E. faecalis SSAT is almost as efficient as human SSAT with spermine as substrate. The polyamine auxotrophy, polyamine‐independent growth and biofilm formation, and presence of functional polyamine N‐acetyltransferases in S. aureus and E. faecalis represent a new paradigm for bacterial polyamine biology.
Floral uniformity through evolutionary time in a species‐rich tree lineage
Authors: Vasconcelos Thais N. C. , Chartier Marion , Prenner Gerhard , Martins Aline C. , Schönenberger Jürg , Wingler Astrid , Lucas Eve
Published: October 2018

Changes in floral morphology are expected across evolutionary time and are often promoted as important drivers in angiosperm diversification. Such a statement, however, is in contrast to empirical observations of species‐rich lineages that show apparent conservative floral morphologies even under strong selective pressure to change from their environments.

Here, we provide quantitative evidence for prolific speciation despite uniform floral morphology in a tropical species‐rich tree lineage. We analyse floral disparity in the environmental and phylogenetic context ofMyrcia(Myrtaceae), one of the most diverse and abundant tree genera in Neotropical biomes.

Variation in floral morphology amongMyrciaclades is exceptionally low, even among distantly related species. Discrete floral specialisations do occur, but these are few, present low phylogenetic signal, have no strong correlation with abiotic factors, and do not affect overall macroevolutionary dynamics in the lineage.

Results show that floral form and function may be conserved over large evolutionary time scales even in environments full of opportunities for ecological interactions and niche specialisation. Species accumulation in diverse lineages with uniform flowers apparently does not result from shifts in pollination strategies, but from speciation mechanisms that involve other, nonfloral plant traits.
Soil fertility in boreal forest relates to root‐driven nitrogen retention and carbon sequestration in the mor layer
Authors: Kyaschenko Julia , Ovaskainen Otso , Ekblad Alf , Hagenbo Andreas , Karltun Erik , Clemmensen Karina E. , Lindahl Björn D.
Published: October 2018

Boreal forest soils retain significant amounts of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) in purely organic layers, but the regulation of organic matter turnover and the relative importance of leaf litter and root‐derived inputs are not well understood.

We combined bomb 14C dating of organic matter with stable isotope profiling for Bayesian parameterization of an organic matter sequestration model. C and N dynamics were assessed across annual depth layers (cohorts), together representing 256 yr of organic matter accumulation. Results were related to ecosystem fertility (soil inorganic N, pH and litter C : N).

Root‐derived C was estimated to decompose two to 10 times more slowly than leaf litter, but more rapidly in fertile plots. The amounts of C and N per cohort declined during the initial 20 yr of decomposition, but, in older material, the amount of N per cohort increased, indicating N retention driven by root‐derived C.

The dynamics of root‐derived inputs were more important than leaf litter dynamics in regulating the variation in organic matter accumulation along a forest fertility gradient. N retention in the rooting zone combined with impeded mining for N in less fertile ecosystems provides evidence for a positive feedback between ecosystem fertility and organic matter turnover.
Macrophage polarization in human gingival tissue in response to periodontal disease
Authors: Zhou Li‐Na , Bi Chun‐Sheng , Gao Li‐Na , An Ying , Chen Fang , Chen Fa‐Ming
Published: October 2018

Objective

Although accumulating evidence indicates that macrophages are central players in the destructive and reparative phases of periodontal disease, their polarization states at different stages of periodontal inflammation remain unclear.

Methods

We collected gingival biopsies from patients with chronic periodontitis (P group), gingivitis (G group), or periodontally healthy individuals (H group). Polarized macrophages were identified through immunofluorescence. M1‐ and M2‐related cytokines were detected by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Compared with the H group, the P group had more M1 cells (higher M1/M2 ratio) and significantly higher TNF‐α, IFN‐γ, IL‐6, and IL‐12 levels. Although the G group also exhibited higher TNF‐α and IL‐12 levels than the H group, they had similar M1/M2 ratios. The M1/M2 ratio and IFN‐γ and IL‐6 levels were significantly higher in the P than the G group. Among M2‐related cytokines, IL‐4 levels were significantly higher in the G than the H group. The M1/M2 ratio was positively correlated with clinical probing depth (PD), and both were positively correlated with IFN‐γ and IL‐6. PD was negatively correlated with IL‐4.

Conclusion

Macrophage polarization in gingival tissue may be responsible for the development and progression of inflammation‐induced tissue destruction, and modulating macrophage function may be a potential strategy for periodontal disease management.
Intraspecific trait variation increases species diversity in a trait‐based grassland model
Authors: Crawford Michael , Jeltsch Florian , May Felix , Grimm Volker , Schlägel Ulrike E.
Published: October 2018

Intraspecific trait variation (ITV) is thought to play a significant role in community assembly, but the magnitude and direction of its influence are not well understood. Although it may be critical to better explain population persistence, species interactions, and therefore biodiversity patterns, manipulating ITV in experiments is challenging. We therefore incorporated ITV into a trait‐ and individual‐based model of grassland community assembly by adding variation to the plants’ functional traits, which then drive life‐history tradeoffs. Varying the amount of ITV in the simulation, we examine its influence on pairwise‐coexistence and then on the species diversity in communities of different initial sizes. We find that ITV increases the ability of the weakest species to invade most, but that this effect does not scale to the community level, where the primary effect of ITV is to increase the persistence and abundance of the competitively‐average species. Diversity of the initial community is also of critical importance in determining ITV's efficacy; above a threshold of interspecific diversity, ITV does not increase diversity further. For communities below this threshold, ITV mainly helps to increase diversity in those communities that would otherwise be low‐diversity. These findings suggest that ITV actively maintains diversity by helping the species on the margins of persistence, but mostly in habitats of relatively low alpha and beta diversity.
Efficacy of house dust mite sublingual tablet in the treatment of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis: A randomized trial in a pediatric population
Authors: Okamoto Yoshitaka , Fujieda Shigeharu , Okano Mitsuhiro , Hida Hideaki , Kakudo Shinji , Masuyama Keisuke
Published: October 2018

Background

The efficacy and safety of 300 index of reactivity (IR) tablets of house dust mite (HDM) allergen extracts in Japanese pediatric (5‐16 years old) patients with allergic rhinitis (AR) were assessed in a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study (JAPIC CTI‐152981).

Methods

Patients were randomized 1:1 to HDM sublingual tablets or placebo once daily for 52 weeks. The primary end‐point was average adjusted symptom score (AASS; average of daily Rhinitis Total Symptom Scores, comprising sneezing, rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, and nasal pruritus, adjusted for rescue medication use), analyzed during Weeks 48‐52 (mixed‐effects model for repeated measures).

Results

Of 438 patients randomized, 403 (92%; 193 active, 210 placebo) completed the study. AASS (least‐squares [LS] mean [SE]) during Weeks 48‐52 was significantly (P = 0.0005) lower in the active group compared with placebo (6.32 [0.20] vs 7.27 [0.19]; relative LS mean difference, −13%). Immunological responses (IgE and IgG4 antibodies specific to antigens of two HDM species) were significantly greater in the active group compared with placebo (P < 0.0001). Almost all patients experienced mild or moderate adverse events (AEs). The most common treatment‐related AEs were oral pruritus, mouth edema, throat irritation, and ear pruritus. One patient experienced serious pseudocroup (subglottic laryngitis) that recovered. There were no deaths or anaphylaxis requiring the use of injectable adrenaline.

Conclusions

The HDM tablet significantly improved symptoms of HDM‐induced perennial AR and was associated with a significant immunological response. The safety profile in pediatric patients was consistent with that in adults, with no new safety concerns.