bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of the heights and thicknesses of the remaining root segments on buccal bone resorption in the socket‐shield technique: An experimental study in dogs
Authors: Tan Zhen , Kang Jian , Liu Wenjia , Wang Hang
Published: February 2018

Background

To date only a few studies have been done on the use of the socket‐shield technique for preserving the resorption of the buccal bone in aesthetically sensitive sites. Besides, there have been no further studies on the effect of the heights and thicknesses of the remaining root segments on buccal bone resorption when using this method.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different heights and thicknesses of the remaining root segments on bone resorption in the socket‐shield technique.

Materials and Methods

Four healthy female beagle dogs were used in this study. The third premolar (P3) and the fourth premolar (P4) on both sides of the mandible were hemisected in the buccal‐lingual direction, and the clinical crown of the distal root was beheaded. In the experimental groups, the roots were worn down in the apical direction until they were located at the buccal crestal level (Group A) or 1 mm higher than that level (Group B). In the control group, the distal root segments were extracted. Then, implant placement was performed into the distal root. After 3 months of healing, the specimens were prepared for histological diagnosis.

Results

There was no difference between Group A and Group B when using the socket‐shield technique, but the results of both groups were better than those of the control group.

Conclusions

The height of the root segments has little effect on the bone absorption of alveolar bone, while the bone absorption was strongly influenced by the thickness of the root segments. More precisely, the absorption may decrease if the thickness of the root fragment increases, when the thickness of the root plate is in the 0.5‐1.5 mm range.
Cutaneous disorders characterized by elastolysis or loss of elastic tissue
Authors: Tronnier Michael
Published: February 2018

Along with collagen, elastic fibers are integral components of cutaneous connective tissue. A decrease in elastic fibers or loss thereof has been described in a number of clinically distinct skin diseases, both hereditary and acquired. In disorders associated with inflammation, elastophagocytosis is an important histological hallmark. Treatment is generally difficult.
About why there is a shift from cardinal to ordinal processing in the association with arithmetic between first and second grade
Authors: Sasanguie Delphine , Vos Helene
Published: February 2018

Digit comparison is strongly related to individual differences in children's arithmetic ability. Why this is the case, however, remains unclear to date. Therefore, we investigated the relative contribution of three possible cognitive mechanisms in first and second graders’ digit comparison performance: digit identification, digit–number word matching and digit ordering ability. Furthermore, we examined whether these components could account for the well‐established relation between digit comparison performance and arithmetic. As expected, all candidate predictors were related to digit comparison in both age groups. Moreover, in first graders, digit ordering and in second graders both digit identification and digit ordering explained unique variance in digit comparison performance. However, when entering these unique predictors of digit comparison into a mediation model with digit comparison as predictor and arithmetic as outcome, we observed that whereas in second graders digit ordering was a full mediator, in first graders this was not the case. For them, the reverse was true and digit comparison fully mediated the relation between digit ordering and arithmetic. These results suggest that between first and second grade, there is a shift in the predictive value for arithmetic from cardinal processing and procedural knowledge to ordinal processing and retrieving declarative knowledge from memory; a process which is possibly due to a change in arithmetic strategies at that age. A video abstract of this article can be viewed at: https://youtu.be/dDB0IGi2Hf8
Evolution of self‐care and functional mobility after single‐event multilevel surgery in children and adolescents with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy
Authors: Dequeker Griet , Van Campenhout Anja , Feys Hilde , Molenaers Guy
Published: February 2018

Aim

To explore the evolution of self‐care and functional mobility after multilevel surgery in children and adolescents with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy and to identify factors affecting these outcomes.

Method

Thirty‐four participants (22 males, 12 females) were evaluated before surgery, and at 2 months, 6 months, 1 year, 18 months, and 2 years after surgery. Self‐care was assessed with the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory Dutch edition. The Mobility Questionnaire47 (MobQues47) and Functional Mobility Scale (FMS) were used to measure functional mobility.

Results

All outcomes revealed a significant decrease 2 months after single‐event multilevel surgery (SEMLS) (p‐value between <0.001 and 0.02) followed by a significant increase at 6 months (p<0.001 and p=0.045). Between 6 months and 1 year, a significant increase was also revealed for Mobques47 (p<0.001), FMS (p≤0.008), and the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory Functional Skills Scale (PEDI‐FSS) (p=0.001). Improvement continued until 18 months for the PEDI‐FSS. Initial score, initial muscle strength, Gross Motor Function Classification System level, age, and number of surgical interventions significantly influenced time trends for self‐care and/or functional mobility.

Interpretation

Most preoperative scores are regained at 6 months after SEMLS. Further improvement is seen until 18 months. Participants with a higher functional level before surgery will temporarily lose more than participants with lower initial functional ability, but they also fast regain their function.

What this paper adds

Self‐care and functional mobility decrease significantly in the first months after single‐event multilevel surgery (SEMLS).

Six months after SEMLS most preoperative scores are regained.

Impact of SEMLS is more pronounced for functional mobility than for self‐care.

Muscle strength and functionality at baseline are important influencing factors on the evolution after SEMLS.
Management of tone in children and young people with cerebral palsy. What is the evidence?
Authors: Carr Lucinda J
Published: February 2018

This commentary is on the systematic review by Fehlings et al. on pages 356–366 of this issue.
The relationship between socio‐economic status and diagnosed Type 2 diabetes is changing with economic growth in Nanjing, China
Authors: Xu F. , He J. , Wang Z. , Ware R. S.
Published: February 2018

Aim

In developed countries, the relationship between socio‐economic status (SES) and Type 2 diabetes was positive several decades ago but is now negative. However, in developing societies such as China the relationship remains positive. It is likely that at some stage of economic development the SES–Type 2 diabetes association will become negative in developing communities. This study aimed to examine whether this inflexion is approaching in China.

Methods

Two cross‐sectional surveys were undertaken in Nanjing, China, in 2000 and 2011. The same sampling approach was used to randomly select participants. Diagnosed Type 2 diabetes was the outcome variable. SES was measured using monthly family average income and divided into thirds. Mixed‐effects models were used to calculate the association between SES and Type 2 diabetes.

Results

There were 19 861 (response rate, 90.1%) and 7824 (response rate, 82.8%) participants in 2000 and 2011, respectively. A 2.6‐fold increase in Type 2 diabetes prevalence was observed from 3.0% (95% confidence interval 2.8%, 3.3%) in 2000 to 8.2% (7.7%, 8.8%) in 2011 (P < 0.01). After controlling for potential confounders, the odds ratios of having Type 2 diabetes decreased from 2.06 (95% CI 1.55, 2.73) and 1.83 (1.40, 2.37) in 2000 to 1.58 (1.23, 2.02) and 1.35 (1.06, 1.74) in 2011 for the higher and middle SES groups respectively, compared with those in the lower SES category.

Conclusions

The SES–Type 2 diabetes association remained positive in Nanjing, China, in 2011 but the disparity diminished significantly compared with 2000. These results can inform the delivery of appropriate interventions to people at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Why We Should Change Our Attitude Towards Distressed Firms
Authors: Zafiris Nicos
Published: February 2018

This article surveys ‘creditor‐friendly’ and ‘enterprise‐friendly’ bankruptcy regimes with a focus on the methodology underlying the filter test in distress, as reflected both in its academic treatment and in legal practice. I find that the test exhibits pro‐liquidation bias in designating liquidation of a firm with recovery potential as the Type II error, and in underplaying the benefits of a possible turnaround. Further influences militating against continuation include the power conferred on creditors through the balance sheet criterion and the undervaluation of intangible assets. I make the case for reversing such biases to establish a presumption in favour of continuation.
Does Targeted Monetary Policy Matter? A Perspective from China
Authors: Li Wenzhe
Published: February 2018

Several major central banks have experimented with targeted monetary policy to improve credit resource allocation. This policy only applies to ‘eligible’ banks. For example, The People's Bank of China conducted seven targeted reductions of reserve requirements during 2014–15. This article documents the phenomenon of targeted monetary policy and evaluates its effects. The results show that, in the case of China, this policy has generated an extra significant, positive return on the stocks of eligible banks, amounting to 1.2–1.3 per cent in a four‐day treatment period. This substantial return gives commercial banks an extra incentive to align with the policy goals of central banks.
Acute myocardial infarction complicated with ventricular septal rupture and intracranial hemorrhage
Authors: Sari Munevver , Kahveci Gokhan , Kilicgedik Alev , Ayturk Mehmet , Pala Selcuk
Published: February 2018

Ventricular septal rupture (VSR) is a rare but fatal complication of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) with an associated mortality that ranges from 41% to 80%. The treatment consists of supplemental oxygenation, afterload reduction, intraaortic balloon pump, and surgical repair. In selected patients, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and/or percutaneous closure of the defect can be considered if anatomically appropriate. Echocardiography evaluates the morphology and location of the defect, anatomical concerns for percutaneous closure, and accompanying pathologies. We present a 48‐year‐old man with inferior myocardial infarction and basal VSR who was not a candidate for percutaneous closure. Surgery was planned, but he died from extensive subarachnoid and intracranial hemorrhage.
Rostral mandibulectomy for treatment of a sarcoma in a 16‐year‐old Thoroughbred mare
Authors: Köhler M. , Koene M. , Schliewert E.‐C. , Aupperle H. , Krause H.‐R.
Published: February 2018

A 16‐year‐old Thoroughbred mare presented with a 1‐year history of a growing mass on the rostral mandible. Biopsy performed by the referring veterinarian revealed chronic granulating fibrosis and stomatitis. Due to progressive loss of body condition and increasing size, the mare presented to the clinic. Radiographic examination of the mandible revealed osteolytic lesions. Mandibulectomy was performed under general anaesthesia. The horse's demeanour and feed intake improved significantly and the cosmetic outcome was acceptable. Histopathological examination confirmed a sarcoma, most likely a fibrosarcoma.
A standing pararectal approach to treat small colon obstruction by a pedunculated lipoma
Authors: Durket E. , Albanese V. , Steward S. K. , Freeman D. E.
Published: February 2018

In an 18‐year‐old Paso Fino mare presented with mild colic of 36 h duration, a luminal obstruction was found on rectal palpation in the most oral part of the rectum, and this appeared to be caused by a tight band on the left side. A standing procedure was used that involved pararectal dissection with long‐handled instruments to the level of the constricting band, guided by a hand in the rectum. A hooked bistoury designed for treating entrapped epiglottis was used to transect the band, which immediately released the obstruction and allowed manual evacuation of the aboral end of the small colon. The band was most likely the pedicle of a pedunculated lipoma that had encircled the oral end of the rectum. The mare made a complete recovery.
Knowledge‐based reasoning and recommendation framework for intelligent decision making
Authors: Ali Rahman , Afzal Muhammad , Sadiq Muhammad , Hussain Maqbool , Ali Taqdir , Lee Sungyoung , Khattak Asad Masood
Published: February 2018

A physical activity recommendation system promotes active lifestyles for users. Real‐world reasoning and recommendation systems face the issues of data and knowledge integration, knowledge acquisition, and accurate recommendation generation. The knowledge‐based reasoning and recommendation framework (KRF) proposed here, which accurately generates reliable recommendations and educational facts for users, could solve those issues. The KRF methodology focuses on integrating data with knowledge, rule‐based reasoning, and conflict resolution. The integration issue is resolved using a semi‐automatic mapping approach in which rule conditions are mapped to data schema. The rule‐based reasoning methodology uses explicit rules with a maximum‐specificity conflict resolution strategy to ensure the generation of appropriate and correct recommendations. The data used during the reasoning process are generated in real time from users' physical activities and personal profiles in order to personalize recommendations. The proposed KRF is part of a wellness and health care platform, Mining Minds, and has been tested in the Mining Minds integrated environment using a sedentary user behaviour scenario. To evaluate the KRF methodology, a stand‐alone, open‐source application (Version 1.0) was released and tested using a dataset of 10 volunteers with 40 different types of sedentary behaviours. The KRF performance was measured using average execution time and recommendation accuracy.
CEO compensation and performance in US private foundations
Authors: Allen Arthur , McAllister Brian
Published: February 2018

In a large sample of US private foundations, we examine the association between CEO compensation and an accounting‐based measure of performance, administrative efficiency. We document a positive pay–performance association across time within foundations, but a negative association across foundations. We interpret our evidence as follows: some foundation boards reward CEOs for high administrative efficiency, which results in a positive pay–performance association. However, some foundations are poorly monitored relative than others, resulting in higher CEO compensation and lower efficiency.
The influence of an invasive plant on denitrification in an urban wetland
Authors: Roley Sarah S. , Tank Jennifer L. , Grace Michael R. , Cook Perran L.M.
Published: February 2018

Wetlands are often biogeochemical hotspots, and they can remove excess N via denitrification and assimilatory uptake. Wetlands are also susceptible to plant invasions, but the effect of invasive plants on denitrification in freshwater wetland sediments is not well‐studied.

Two distinct mechanisms suggest the potential for invasive plants to alter denitrification. First, invasive plants often produce more biomass than non‐invasive species, thus potentially providing additional carbon (C) for denitrifiers. Second, some invasive wetland plants funnel more oxygen into the root zone than non‐invasive plants, potentially stimulating coupled nitrification–denitrification.

Using the push–pull isotope pairing technique, we measured denitrification and coupled nitrification–denitrification in the sediments beneath monoculture plots of Phragmites australis and Typha domingensis, and beneath unvegetated sediments, in an urban wetland in Melbourne, Australia. We also measured pore water nutrient concentrations and calculated the diffusive flux of nutrients from the sediments into the overlying water column.

We hypothesised that plots containing P. australis would have the highest denitrification and coupled nitrification–denitrification rates, followed by plots containing T. domingensis, with the lowest rates in the unvegetated plots, as a result of higher C and oxygen availability.

Instead, we found that denitrification and coupled nitrification–denitrification rates were highly variable, with no difference among plot type. However, we did find that diffusive flux of ammonium from the sediments into the water column was lower in the vegetated plots than in the unvegetated plots, suggesting that vegetation enhances wetland N retention via plant assimilatory uptake.
Simulating bimodal tall fescue growth with a degree‐day‐based process‐oriented plant model
Authors: Kiniry J. R. , Kim S. , Williams A. S. , Lock T. R. , Kallenbach R. L.
Published: February 2018

Plant growth simulation models have a temperature response function driving development, with a base temperature and an optimum temperature defined. Such models function well when plant development rate shows a continuous change throughout the growing season. This approach becomes more complex as it is extended to cool‐season perennial grasses with a dormant period and bimodal growth curves. The objective of this study was to develop such a bimodal growth model for tall fescue (Schedonorus arundinaceus (Schreb.) Dumort) in the Midwest USA based on multiyear measurement trials. Functions for bimodal growth were incorporated into the ALMANAC model and applied to tall fescue using published tall fescue yields for a variety of sites and soils. Fields of cultivars “Kentucky 31” and “BarOptima Plus E34” were divided into paddocks and sampled weekly for dry‐matter accumulation. These biomass estimates were used to derive weekly growth values by differences between sequential weekly samplings. The measured values were compared to a single tall fescue simulation each year on one soil. Using these results, the ALMANAC model was modified and tested against mean reported tall fescue yields for 11 sites, with one to three soils per site. When we introduced midsummer dormancy into ALMANAC, we assumed dormancy began on the longest day of the year and lasted until the photoperiod was 0.68 hr shorter than the longest. ALMANAC simulated previously reported tall fescue yields well across the range of sites. Thus, ALMANAC shows great promise to simulate bimodal growth in this common cool‐season grass.
Imatinib‐induced diffuse hyperpigmentation of the oral mucosa, the skin, and the nails in a patient affected by chronic myeloid leukemia: report of a case and review of the literature
Authors: Di Tullio Francesca , Mandel Victor D. , Scotti Rosa , Padalino Claudia , Pellacani Giovanni
Published: February 2018

Background

Imatinib mesylate is a tyrosine‐kinase inhibitor used as the first‐line treatment in chronic myeloid leukemia patients, but it is also indicated for other hematological diseases and solid tumors. Imatinib treatment is often associated with hypopigmentation, but only a few cases of hyperpigmentation are described in literature.

Methods

We are reporting the first case of imatinib‐related hyperpigmentation involving the oral mucosa, skin, and nails in a patient affected by chronic myeloid leukemia and treated with imatinib since 2002. A review of all the available literature regarding the imatinib‐related hyperpigmentation was performed, and one additional case was analyzed. Due to the possibility of a post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation, all cases of pigmentary changes previously characterized by a rash and/or pruritus in the same body areas were excluded.

Results

Thirty cases of well‐documented imatinib‐related hyperpigmentation were described in literature. In our case, imatinib therapy was well tolerated for several years, and it led to an excellent hematological and cytogenetic response. However, the patient gradually developed a blue‐gray pigmentation that involved the nose, fingernails, toenails, pretibial regions, posterior axillary folds, and hard palate. Other causes of pigmentary changes were excluded, and histopathological examination confirmed the clinical suspicion of imatinib‐related hyperpigmentation.

Conclusions

Hyperpigmentation induced by imatinib is an adverse reaction rarely described in literature. The underlying pathogenetic mechanisms are not yet completely clear, and further studies are necessary to elucidate them. Currently, no treatment is required for this condition, and there is no indication to discontinue imatinib treatment.
Inequality‐averse well‐being measurement
Authors: Fleurbaey Marc , Maniquet François
Published: February 2018

We construct individual well‐being measures that respect individual preferences and depend on the bundles of goods consumed by the individual. Building on previous work in which general families of well‐being measures are identified, we introduce basic transfer principles that apply either to bundles or directly to indifference sets, and we characterize specific well‐being measures that involve either the ray utility or the money‐metric utility.
The importance of incompleteness
Authors: Sen Amartya
Published: February 2018

Kotaro Suzumura can be seen as the most complete social choice theorist the subject has ever had. No area of social choice has failed to benefit from Suzumura's penetrating analyses. Among the many important contributions made by Suzumura is the use of the idea of incompleteness of evaluation in his analysis of consistency, particularly in the form of what has come to be called “Suzumura consistency”. In this paper I explore the need for allowing – and incorporating – incompleteness of preferences in choice theory in general and social choice in particular. This is followed by a number of critical enquiries. Why is incompleteness important? How does it arise as an essential part of rational reflections? What are its implications (i) for prudential decisions, and (ii) for ethical judgments? Finally, how should making room for incompleteness influence theories of justice?
On the Three Kinds of Resurrection of the Dead
Authors: Harris Steven Edward
Published: February 2018

Resurrection has been defined, in modern theology, with almost sole reference to Jesus Christ. The future resurrection of all Christians is, rightly, understood in light of his own rising from the dead. Yet Scripture witnesses to another, third kind of resurrection that is regularly dismissed by theologians as insignificant: that of particular individuals in the Old and New Testaments. This article retrieves a sense of this third kind of resurrection as ‘types’ or ‘signs’ of Christ's and the future resurrection through interaction with premodern exegesis and theology. In so doing, it demonstrates the abiding theological significance of these events for understanding the resurrection of the dead.
Reformed and Radically Orthodox?: Participatory Metaphysics, Reformed Scholasticism and Radical Orthodoxy's Critique of Modernity
Authors: Michelson Jared
Published: February 2018

Radical Orthodoxy locates the intellectual roots of secular modernity in the attenuation of Thomistic participatory metaphysics in the late medieval period. John Milbank implicates Reformational theologies in this unintentionally secularizing movement. I examine seventeenth‐century Reformed scholastic Stephen Charnock, contending that he articulates an account of participatory metaphysics similar to Thomas Aquinas, and even further, fails to exhibit the negative trends which Milbank and Catherine Pickstock associate with Scotus and the via moderna. This analysis of Charnock calls into question the location of Reformed theology in Radical Orthodoxy's genealogy of secular modernity, and opens up possibilities for rapprochement between Reformed theology and Radical Orthodoxy.
Facile synthesis of amorphous Cr2O3/N‐doped carbon nanosheets and its excellent lithium storage property
Authors: Zhang Deyin , Qin Mingli , Huang Min , Wu Haoyang , Jia Baorui , Liu Zhiwei , Liu Tingting , Qu Xuanhui , Cao Peng
Published: February 2018

The Cr2O3 with high‐energy density and relatively low lithium insertion potential is a promising anode candidate for LIBs. However, the intrinsic poor electroconductivity and side effects like volume expansion of Cr2O3 severely limit its capacity and cyclability at high charge/discharge rates. To address the problem, the amorphous Cr2O3/N‐doped carbon nanosheets (denoted as a‐Cr2O3/NC) have been designed and prepared by an easy one‐step solution combustion synthesis method from a uniform solution of chromium nitrate, glucose, and glycine. The as‐synthesized a‐Cr2O3/NC consist of amorphous Cr2O3 particles and N‐doped carbon sheet, where the amorphous Cr2O3 is evenly encapsulated in the carbon sheet support. An anode prepared from the synthesized a‐Cr2O3/NC demonstrates much higher specific capacity and better cycling performance than the crystalline Cr2O3 anode. Upon extended cycling, the a‐Cr2O3/NC anode exhibits good long‐term stability and its reversible capacity retains as high as 782.4 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 1 A g−1. Such good performance stems from its unique structure. The amorphous structure of Cr2O3 can furnish a mass of enterable active sites which can favor the lithium ions insertion/extraction, whereas the sheet‐like N‐doped carbon support can increase the electroconductivity and facilitate the transportation of lithium ions and electrons.
Consequences of breeding system for body condition and survival throughout the annual cycle of tidal marsh sparrows
Authors: Borowske Alyssa , Field Christopher R. , Ruskin Katharine J. , Elphick Chris S.
Published: February 2018

An individual's body condition and probability of survival can change throughout the annual cycle, based on the combined effects of many factors, including reproductive investment during breeding, colder temperatures during winter, and elevated risks during migration. We evaluated body condition and survival during breeding and non‐breeding periods in two closely related species with notably different reproductive systems. Male and female saltmarsh sparrows Ammodramus caudacutus represent extremes in parental care: males perform none, leaving females to do everything from build nests to care for fledglings. In contrast, male and female seaside sparrows A. maritimus have bi‐parental care and similar levels of reproductive investment, intermediate between male and female saltmarsh sparrows. Our results are consistent with the idea that females experience non‐lethal effects of reproduction, and that differences between the breeding season and winter affect condition. In both species, females had lower scaled mass index (SMI) values than males during both breeding and non‐breeding seasons, and female saltmarsh sparrows had lower SMI values than female seaside sparrows. Females carried more fat than males during the breeding season, and female, but not male, fat and muscle scores decreased over time, which is consistent with the adaptive mass hypothesis. In winter, all groups carried more fat and had higher muscle scores than when breeding, despite having lower SMI scores. Although we observed variation in body condition, within‐season survival was uniformly high in both seasons, suggesting that sex, species, season, body size, and body condition have little impacts on within season survival. Comparisons with previously‐published estimates of annual adult survival suggest that most mortality occurs during migration, even in these short‐distance migrants. The importance of considering multiple aspects of body condition, multiple seasons, and difficult‐to‐monitor events, such as migration, should not be ignored when thinking about the events and processes that cumulatively determine population dynamics.
Digging their own macroevolutionary grave: fossoriality as an evolutionary dead end in snakes
Authors: Cyriac V. P. , Kodandaramaiah U.
Published: February 2018

The tree of life is highly asymmetrical in its clade wise species richness, and this has often been attributed to variation in diversification rates either across time or lineages. Variations across lineages are usually associated with traits that increase lineage diversification. Certain traits can also hinder diversification by increasing extinction, and such traits are called evolutionary dead ends. Ecological specialization has usually been considered as an evolutionary dead end. However, recent analyses of specializations along single axes have provided mixed support for this model. Here, we test if fossoriality, a trait that forces specialization at multiple axes, acts as an evolutionary dead end in squamates (lizards and snakes) using recently developed phylogenetic comparative methods. We show that fossoriality is an evolutionary dead end in snakes but not in lizards. Fossorial snakes exhibit reduced speciation and increased extinction compared to nonfossorial snakes. Our analysis also indicates that transition rates from fossoriality to nonfossoriality in snakes are significantly lower than transition rates from nonfossoriality to fossoriality. Overall our results suggest that broad‐scale ecological interactions that lead to specialization at multiple axes limit diversification.
Fitness variation among host species and the paradox of ineffective rhizobia
Authors: Pahua V. J. , Stokes P. J. N. , Hollowell A. C. , Regus J. U. , Gano‐Cohen K. A. , Wendlandt C. E. , Quides K. W. , Lyu J. Y. , Sachs J. L.
Published: February 2018

Legumes can preferentially select beneficial rhizobial symbionts and sanction ineffective strains that fail to fix nitrogen. Yet paradoxically, rhizobial populations vary from highly beneficial to ineffective in natural and agricultural soils. Classic models of symbiosis focus on the single dimension of symbiont cost‐benefit to sympatric hosts, but fail to explain the widespread persistence of ineffective rhizobia. Here, we test a novel framework predicting that spatio‐temporal and community dynamics can maintain ineffective strains in rhizobial populations. We used clonal and multistrain inoculations and quantitative culturing to investigate the relative fitness of four focal Bradyrhizobium strains varying from effective to ineffective on Acmispon strigosus. We found that an ineffective Bradyrhizobium strain can be sanctioned by its native A. strigosus host across the host's range, forming fewer and smaller nodules compared to beneficial strains. But the same ineffective Bradyrhizobium strain exhibits a nearly opposite pattern on the broadly sympatric host Acmispon wrangelianus, forming large nodules in both clonal and multistrain inoculations. These data suggest that community‐level effects could favour the persistence of ineffective rhizobia and contribute to variation in symbiotic nitrogen fixation.
Intrageneric Variability Between the Chloroplast Genomes of Trachelomonas grandis and Trachelomonas volvocina and Phylogenomic Analysis of Phototrophic Euglenoids
Authors: Dabbagh Nadja , Preisfeld Angelika
Published: February 2018

The latest studies of chloroplast genomes of phototrophic euglenoids yielded different results according to intrageneric variability such as cluster arrangement or diversity of introns. Although the genera Euglena and Monomorphina in those studies show high syntenic arrangements at the intrageneric level, the two investigated Eutreptiella species comprise low synteny. Furthermore Trachelomonas volvocina show low synteny to the chloroplast genomes of the sister genera Monomorphina aenigmatica, M. parapyrum, Cryptoglena skujae, Euglenaria anabaena, Strombomonas acuminata, all of which were highly syntenic. Consequently, this study aims at the analysis of the cpGenome of Trachelomonas grandis and a comparative examination of T. volvocina to investigate whether the cpGenomes are of such resemblance as could be expected for a genus within the Euglenaceae. Although these analyses resulted in almost identical gene content to other Euglenaceae, the chloroplast genome showed significant novelties: In the rRNA operon, we detected group II introns, not yet found in any other cpGenome of Euglenaceae and a substantially heterogeneous cluster arrangement in the genus Trachelomonas. The phylogenomic analysis with 84 genes of 19 phototrophic euglenoids and 18 cpGenome sequences from Chlorophyta and Streptophyta resulted in a well‐supported cpGenome phylogeny, which is in accordance to former phylogenetic analyses.
Neonatal Outcomes in the Birth Center Setting: A Systematic Review
Authors: Phillippi Julia C. , Danhausen Kathleen , Alliman Jill , Phillippi R. David
Published: February 2018

Introduction

This systematic review investigates the effect of the birth center setting on neonatal mortality in economically developed countries to aid women and clinicians in decision making.

Methods

We searched the Google Scholar, CINAHL, and PubMed databases using key terms birth/birthing center or out of hospital with perinatal/neonatal outcomes. Ancestry searches identified additional studies, and an alert was set for new publications. We included primary source studies in English, published after 1980, conducted in a developed country, and researching planned birth in centers with guidelines similar to American Association of Birth Centers standards. After initial review, we conducted a preliminary analysis, assessing which measures of neonatal health, morbidity, and mortality were included across studies.

Results

Neonatal mortality was selected as the sole summary measure as other measures were sporadically reported or inconsistently defined. Seventeen studies were included, representing at least 84,500 women admitted to a birth center in labor. There were substantial differences of study design, sampling techniques, and definitions of neonatal outcomes across studies, limiting conclusive statements of the effect of intrapartum care in a birth center. No reviewed study found a statistically increased rate of neonatal mortality in birth centers compared to low‐risk women giving birth in hospitals, nor did data suggest a trend toward higher neonatal mortality in birth centers. As in all birth settings, nulliparous women, women aged greater than 35 years, and women with pregnancies of more than 42 weeks’ gestation may have an increased risk of neonatal mortality.

Discussion

There are substantial flaws in the literature concerning the effect of birth center care on neonatal outcomes. More research is needed on subgroups at risk of poor outcomes in the birth center environment. To expedite research, consistent use of national and international definitions of perinatal and neonatal mortality within data registries and greater detail on adverse outcomes would be beneficial.
Fracture Resistance of Titanium‐Based Lithium Disilicate and Zirconia Implant Restorations
Authors: Roberts Evan E. , Bailey Clifton W. , Ashcraft‐Olmscheid Deborah L. , Vandewalle Kraig S.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

To evaluate the fracture resistance of a newer lithium disilicate abutment material.

Materials and Methods

A premolar‐shaped implant crown was designed using CAD/CAM software, and four groups of implant and crown combinations were milled: (1) lithium‐disilicate hybrid‐abutment crown; (2) “screwmentable” lithium‐disilicate hybrid abutment/lithium‐disilicate crown with screw channel; (3) lithium‐disilicate hybrid abutment/lithium‐disilicate crown; and (4) zirconia hybrid abutment/lithium‐disilicate crown (control). The specimens were cemented to a titanium‐base implant system, subjected to thermocycling and cyclic loading, and fractured in a material testing device.

Results

The lithium‐disilicate hybrid‐abutment crown had significantly greater fracture load than all the other groups, which were not significantly different from each other.

Conclusions

Based on fracture load, the new lithium‐disilicate hybrid‐abutment material may serve as a viable alternative to the use of zirconia as a hybrid‐abutment material.
Pulmonary and hepatic cystic lesions in a child
Authors: Rubio‐San‐Simón Alba , García‐Cárdaba Luis Miguel , Candela‐Herrera Jorge
Published: February 2018

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Sensory, digestion, and texture quality of commercial gluten‐free bread: Impact of broken rice flour type
Authors: Feizollahi Ehsan , Mirmoghtadaie Leila , Mohammadifar Mohammad Amin , Jazaeri Sahar , Hadaegh Haleh , Nazari Bahman , Lalegani Sajjad
Published: February 2018

This research investigated the effects of two varieties of broken rice (Khouzestan and Lenjan) from warm and dry regions, and two (Hashemi and Tarom) from mild and humid regions on different parameters including dough rheology, digestibility, and quality (color, specific volume, textural properties, and sensorial properties) of a commercial gluten‐free bread (GFB). Furthermore, the rice varieties' hydration properties, gelatinization temperatures, and starch‐granule morphology were assessed. Significant differences were observed in the varieties' proximate composition and hydration properties from both climate zones. The granules' average size was 3.17–4.9 µm. The specific volume of the breads showed no correlation with either the damaged starch content or the amylose content, but had a significant negative correlation with hardness (r = −.923, p < .05). The crumb hardness of bread was positively correlated with water‐binding capacity and was affected by elastic modulus of dough. Results of predicted glycemic index were in accordance with total carbohydrates. Khouzestan received the highest score in sensory evaluation test. Based on the outcomes for bread‐quality attributes, Khouzestan from the warm and dry region, which is a cheaper rice variety in Iran, was the most appropriate variety for GFB production. Moreover, it was determined that the rice varieties currently used in commercial manufacture of gluten‐free bread do not necessarily yield the highest‐quality bread.

Practical applications

Gluten‐free breads (GFBs) are generally used by Coeliac patients. In comparison to wheat bread, the quality of GFBs is lower. Rice is one of the main ingredients of GFBs' formulation, thence by determining the quality‐related features of the rice, improvement in the final product could be achieved. In addition, by implementing the cheap and the broken rice variety, the price of the final product could be decreased and be more affordable for the patients.
The limits of leverage
Authors: Guasoni Paolo , Mayerhofer Eberhard
Published: February 2018

When trading incurs proportional costs, leverage can scale an asset's return only up to a maximum multiple, which is sensitive to its volatility and liquidity. In a model with one safe and one risky asset, with constant investment opportunities and proportional costs, we find strategies that maximize long‐term returns given average volatility. As leverage increases, rising rebalancing costs imply declining Sharpe ratios. Beyond a critical level, even returns decline. Holding the Sharpe ratio constant, higher asset volatility leads to superior returns through lower costs.
Transcriptome profiles of sunflower reveal the potential role of microsatellites in gene expression divergence
Authors: Ranathunge Chathurani , Wheeler Gregory L. , Chimahusky Melody E. , Kennedy Meaghan M. , Morrison Jesse I. , Baldwin Brian S. , Perkins Andy D. , Welch Mark E.
Published: February 2018

The mechanisms by which natural populations generate adaptive genetic variation are not well understood. Some studies propose that microsatellites can function as drivers of adaptive variation. Here, we tested a potentially adaptive role for transcribed microsatellites with natural populations of the common sunflower (Helianthus annuusL.) by assessing the enrichment of microsatellites in genes that show expression divergence across latitudes. Seeds collected from six populations at two distinct latitudes in Kansas and Oklahoma were planted and grown in a common garden. Morphological measurements from the common garden demonstrated that phenotypic variation among populations is largely explained by underlying genetic variation. An RNA‐Seq experiment was conducted with 96 of the individuals grown in the common garden and differentially expressed (DE) transcripts between the two latitudes were identified. A total number of 825 DE transcripts were identified. DE transcripts and nondifferentially expressed (NDE) transcripts were then scanned for microsatellites. The abundance of different motif lengths and types in both groups were estimated. Our results indicate that DE transcripts are significantly enriched with mononucleotide repeats and significantly depauperate in trinucleotide repeats. Further, the standardized mononucleotide repeat motif A and dinucleotide repeat motif AG were significantly enriched within DE transcripts while motif types, C, AT, ACC and AAC in DE transcripts, are significantly differentiated in microsatellite tract length between the two latitudes. The tract length differentiation at specific microsatellite motif types across latitudes and their enrichment within DE transcripts indicate a potential functional role for transcribed microsatellites in gene expression divergence in sunflower.
Daphnia magna microRNAs respond to nutritional stress and ageing but are not transgenerational
Authors: Hearn Jack , Chow Franklin Wang‐Ngai , Barton Harriet , Tung Matthew , Wilson Philip J. , Blaxter Mark , Buck Amy , Little Tom J.
Published: February 2018

Maternal effects, where the performance of offspring is determined by the condition of their mother, are widespread and may in some cases be adaptive. The crustacean Daphnia magna shows strong maternal effects: offspring size at birth and other proxies for fitness are altered when their mothers are older or when mothers have experienced dietary restriction. The mechanisms for this transgenerational transmission of maternal experience are unknown, but could include changes in epigenetic patterning. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are regulators of gene expression that have been shown to play roles in intergenerational information transfer, and here, we test whether miRNAs are involved in D. magna maternal effects. We found that miRNAs were differentially expressed in mothers of different ages or nutritional state. We then examined miRNA expression in their eggs, their adult daughters and great granddaughters, which did not experience any treatments. The maternal (treatment) generation exhibited differential expression of miRNAs, as did their eggs, but this was reduced in adult daughters and lost by great granddaughters. Thus, miRNAs are a component of maternal provisioning, but do not appear to be the cause of transgenerational responses under these experimental conditions. MicroRNAs may act in tandem with egg provisioning (e.g., with carbohydrates or fats), and possibly other small RNAs or epigenetic modifications.
Flickers of speciation: Sympatric colour morphs of the arc‐eye hawkfish,Paracirrhites arcatus, reveal key elements of divergence with gene flow
Authors: Whitney Jonathan L. , Bowen Brian W. , Karl Stephen A.
Published: February 2018

One of the primary challenges of evolutionary research is to identify ecological factors that favour reproductive isolation. Therefore, studying partially isolated taxa has the potential to provide novel insight into the mechanisms of evolutionary divergence. Our study utilizes an adaptive colour polymorphism in the arc‐eye hawkfish (Paracirrhites arcatus) to explore the evolution of reproductive barriers in the absence of geographic isolation. Dark and light morphs are ecologically partitioned into basaltic and coral microhabitats a few metres apart. To test whether ecological barriers have reduced gene flow among dark and light phenotypes, we evaluated genetic variation at 30 microsatellite loci and a nuclear exon (Mc1r) associated with melanistic coloration. We report low, but significant microsatellite differentiation among colour morphs and stronger divergence in the coding region ofMc1rindicating signatures of selection. Critically, we observed greater genetic divergence between colour morphs on the same reefs than that between the same morphs in different geographic locations. We hypothesize that adaptation to the contrasting microhabitats is overriding gene flow and is responsible for the partial reproductive isolation observed between sympatric colour morphs. Combined with complementary studies of hawkfish ecology and behaviour, these genetic results indicate an ecological barrier to gene flow initiated by habitat selection and enhanced by assortative mating. Hence, the arc‐eye hawkfish fulfil theoretical expectations for the earliest phase of speciation with gene flow.
A novel approach to wildlife transcriptomics provides evidence of disease‐mediated differential expression and changes to the microbiome of amphibian populations
Authors: Campbell Lewis J. , Hammond Stewart A. , Price Stephen J. , Sharma Manmohan D. , Garner Trenton W. J. , Birol Inanc , Helbing Caren C. , Wilfert Lena , Griffiths Amber G. F.
Published: February 2018

Ranaviruses are responsible for a lethal, emerging infectious disease in amphibians and threaten their populations throughout the world. Despite this, little is known about how amphibian populations respond to ranaviral infection. In the United Kingdom, ranaviruses impact the common frog (Rana temporaria). Extensive public engagement in the study of ranaviruses in the UK has led to the formation of a unique system of field sites containing frog populations of known ranaviral disease history. Within this unique natural field system, we used RNA sequencing (RNA‐Seq) to compare the gene expression profiles of R. temporaria populations with a history of ranaviral disease and those without. We have applied a RNA read‐filtering protocol that incorporates Bloom filters, previously used in clinical settings, to limit the potential for contamination that comes with the use of RNA‐Seq in nonlaboratory systems. We have identified a suite of 407 transcripts that are differentially expressed between populations of different ranaviral disease history. This suite contains genes with functions related to immunity, development, protein transport and olfactory reception among others. A large proportion of potential noncoding RNA transcripts present in our differentially expressed set provide first evidence of a possible role for long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) in amphibian response to viruses. Our read‐filtering approach also removed significantly more bacterial reads from libraries generated from positive disease history populations. Subsequent analysis revealed these bacterial read sets to represent distinct communities of bacterial species, which is suggestive of an interaction between ranavirus and the host microbiome in the wild.