bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Responses of phenology and biomass production of boreal fens to climate warming under different water‐table level regimes
Authors: Mäkiranta Päivi , Laiho Raija , Mehtätalo Lauri , Straková Petra , Sormunen Janne , Minkkinen Kari , Penttilä Timo , Fritze Hannu , Tuittila Eeva‐Stiina
Published: October 2017

Climate change affects peatlands directly through increased air temperatures and indirectly through changes in water‐table level (WL). The interactions of these two still remain poorly known. We determined experimentally the separate and interactive effects of temperature and WL regime on factors of relevance for the inputs to the carbon cycle: plant community composition, phenology, biomass production, and shoot:root allocation in two wet boreal sedge‐dominated fens, “southern” at 62°N and “northern” at 68°Ν. Warming (1.5°C higher average daily air temperature) was induced with open‐top chambers and WL drawdown (WLD; 3–7 cm on average) by shallow ditches. Total biomass production varied from 250 to 520 g/m2, with belowground production comprising 25%–63%. Warming was associated with minor effects on phenology and negligible effects on community composition, biomass production, and allocation. WLD clearly affected the contribution of different plant functional types (PFTs) in the community and the biomass they produced: shrubs benefited while forbs and mosses suffered. These responses did not depend on the warming treatment. Following WLD, aboveground biomass production decreased mainly due to reduced growth of mosses in the southern fen. Aboveground vascular plant biomass production remained unchanged but the contribution of different PFTs changed. The observed changes were also reflected in plant phenology, with different PFTs showing different responses. Belowground production increased following WLD in the northern fen only, but an increase in the contributions of shrubs and forbs was observed in both sites, while sedge contribution decreased. Moderate warming alone seems not able to drive significant changes in plant productivity or community composition in these wet ecosystems. However, if warming is accompanied by even modest WL drawdown, changes should be expected in the relative contribution of PFTs, which could lead to profound changes in the function of fens. Consequently, hydrological scenarios are of utmost importance when estimating their future function.
Relapsing polychondritis, an underestimated dermatological urgency: case report and literature review
Authors: Cuestas Daniel , Peñaranda Elkin , Mora Sergio , Cortes Carolina , Galvis Ingrid , Patiño Mónica , Velasquez Oscar
Published: October 2017

Background

Relapsing polychondritis is an autoimmune multisystemic disease with primary chondral involvement. Its high mortality and morbidity make it a real clinical challenge.

Case description

A 32‐year‐old woman with a history of relapsing polychondritis, refractory to multiple treatments, with multisystem compromise, imminent risk of death due to severe tracheobronchial damage and difficult ventilatory support, and successful treatment with infliximab.

Discussion and evaluation

Several treatments have been described in the literature, such as nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, dapsone, azathioprine, cyclosporine, cyclophosphamide, and methotrexate. However, the cases refractory to conventional therapy may lead to chronicity, irreversibility, and death. As a result, a third‐line therapy could improve the prognosis of these patients.

Conclusions

Biological therapy is a good option for disease control and quality of life improvement. In addition, the physician should consider these treatments to avoid the chronicity and risk of death of these patients.
Genome‐wide association study and annotating candidate gene networks affecting age at first calving in Nellore cattle
Authors: Mota R.R. , Guimarães S.E.F. , Fortes M.R.S. , Hayes B. , Silva F.F. , Verardo L.L. , Kelly M.J. , de Campos C.F. , Guimarães J.D. , Wenceslau R.R. , Penitente‐Filho J.M. , Garcia J.F. , Moore S.
Published: October 2017

We performed a genome‐wide mapping for the age at first calving (AFC) with the goal of annotating candidate genes that regulate fertility in Nellore cattle. Phenotypic data from 762 cows and 777k SNP genotypes from 2,992 bulls and cows were used. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) effects based on the single‐step GBLUP methodology were blocked into adjacent windows of 1 Megabase (Mb) to explain the genetic variance. SNP windows explaining more than 0.40% of the AFC genetic variance were identified on chromosomes 2, 8, 9, 14, 16 and 17. From these windows, we identified 123 coding protein genes that were used to build gene networks. From the association study and derived gene networks, putative candidate genes (e.g., PAPPA, PREP, FER1L6, TPR, NMNAT1, ACAD10, PCMTD1, CRH, OPKR1, NPBWR1 and NCOA2) and transcription factors (TF) (STAT1, STAT3, RELA, E2F1 and EGR1) were strongly associated with female fertility (e.g., negative regulation of luteinizing hormone secretion, folliculogenesis and establishment of uterine receptivity). Evidence suggests that AFC inheritance is complex and controlled by multiple loci across the genome. As several windows explaining higher proportion of the genetic variance were identified on chromosome 14, further studies investigating the interaction across haplotypes to better understand the molecular architecture behind AFC in Nellore cattle should be undertaken.
Fluvial geomorphic assessment and river corridor mapping as flood risk management tools in Massachusetts, USA
Authors: Warner B.P. , Gartner J.D. , Hatch C.E.
Published: October 2017

The role of geomorphic processes in flood risk is understudied in the management context. In the United States, only nine states have explored this role and only two – Vermont and Washington State – have developed and implemented legally binding geomorphic‐based flood risk management; both rely on the concept of geomorphic assessment, through which fluvial geomorphic processes are documented and river corridors are mapped. Massachusetts, having incurred substantial damages from landslides, bank failures, bed incision, and sedimentation in recent years, has initiated a programme to examine the inclusion of geomorphic processes into flood risk management. At its core, the programme relies on participation of flood risk management stakeholders representing government (local, state, and federal), non‐governmental organisations, consulting agencies, academia, and industry. A series of workshops with these stakeholders over 4 years has culminated in a needs assessment that articulates what must be included in the development of a Massachusetts fluvial geomorphic assessment programme. In this report, we share the results of this needs assessment. We do this in the hope that other jurisdictions incurring flood damages from geomorphic processes may find it to be a useful model as they work to mitigate these damages.
Performance of F‐18 FDG PET/CT for predicting malignant potential of gastrointestinal stromal tumors: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kim Seong‐Jang , Lee Sang‐Woo
Published: October 2017

Background and Aim

We aimed to explore the role of the diagnostic accuracy of F‐18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (F‐18 FDG PET) or positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) for prediction of malignant potential of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) through a systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

The MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library database, from the earliest available date of indexing through May 31, 2017, were searched for studies evaluating the diagnostic performance of F‐18 FDG PET or PET/CT for prediction of malignant potential of GIST. We determined the sensitivities and specificities across studies, calculated positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR−), and constructed summary receiver operating characteristic curves.

Results

Across seven studies (188 patients), the pooled sensitivity for F‐18 FDG PET or PET/CT was 0.88 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.80–0.94) without heterogeneity (χ2 = 6.15, P = 0.72) and a pooled specificity of 0.88 (95% CI: 0.75–0.94) with heterogeneity (χ2 = 23.2, P = 0.01). LR syntheses gave an overall LR+ of 7.2 (95% CI: 3.3–15.3) and LR− of 0.13 (95% CI: 0.07–0.24). The pooled diagnostic odds ratio was 54 (95% CI: 16–181).

Conclusion

F‐18 FDG PET or PET/CT demonstrated good sensitivity and specificity for the prediction of malignant potential of GIST. At present, the literature regarding the use of F‐18 FDG PET or PET/CT for the prediction of malignant potential of GIST remains still limited; thus, further large multicenter studies would be necessary to substantiate the diagnostic accuracy of F‐18 FDG PET or PET/CT prediction of malignant potential of GIST.
Looking for Japan's missing third baby boom
Authors: Baba Sachiko , Goto Aya , Reich Michael R.
Published: October 2017

Aim

High‐income countries are now experiencing a decline in fertility. After experiencing baby booms in 1947–1949 and 1971–1974, Japan's population has been decreasing since 2015. In an attempt to predict the next baby boom, we searched for any upward demographic trends occurring after 1974.

Methods

We analyzed time trends of the numbers and rates of live births, stillbirths and induced abortions using Japanese government data from 1975 to 2014. We then selected two birth cohorts: the first baby boomers who were 0–4 years old in 1950, and the second baby boomers who were 0–4 years old in 1975, and analyzed their rates of live births, stillbirths, and abortions by five‐year age groups.

Results

There was no upswing in the numbers of births, stillbirths, or induced abortions; however, the abortion rate increased during 1996–2002. Compared with the first baby boomer cohort, the second baby boomer cohort had half the peak live birth rate for the same age group (25–29 years old), and half the peak rate of abortions, with a shift toward a younger age group (20–24).

Conclusions

This analysis of Japanese fertility trends derived from all pregnancy outcomes showed no upward trend in fertility in Japan since 1974.
Effect of probiotics on perinatal outcome in patients at high risk of preterm birth
Authors: Kirihara Nami , Kamitomo Masato , Tabira Tatsunori , Hashimoto Takashi , Taniguchi Hiroko , Maeda Takatsugu
Published: October 2017

Aim

Recent reports have shown lower levels of Clostridium and higher levels of Lactobacillales in the intestinal microbiota in preterm birth patients compared to term birth patients. However, the influence of probiotics on perinatal status has not been elucidated. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effects of probiotics on perinatal outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated the effects of oral probiotics on perinatal outcome in patients at high risk of preterm birth. Probiotics containing Streptococcus faecalis, Clostridium butyricum and Bacillus mesentericus were administered for prophylaxis of bacterial vaginosis or treatment of constipation starting at 12.5 ± 4.1 weeks until delivery. Patients not administered probiotics were defined as the non‐probiotics group. Between these two groups, perinatal outcomes including gestational age at birth, birth weight, chorioamnionitis or funisitis and preterm birth before 32 weeks were compared. In addition, multivariate regression analyses were performed to evaluate factors influencing preterm birth before 32 weeks, chorioamnionitis/funisitis and normal vaginal flora.

Results

The probiotics group showed longer gestation, higher birth weight, lower rates of chorioamnionitis and higher rates of normal vaginal flora compared to the non‐probiotics group. Multivariate regression analysis showed that probiotics significantly suppressed preterm birth before 32 weeks and tended to suppress chorioamnionitis/funisitis. The adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for preterm birth before 32 weeks and chorioamnionitis/funisitis were 0.05 (0.01–0.71) and 0.07 (0.01–1.03), respectively.

Conclusions

Oral probiotics containing Clostridium had a significant effect on the prevention of preterm birth before 32 weeks of gestation.
Fabrication of a Simple Acrylic Template to Standardize Periapical Radiographs for Implants Retaining Mandibular Bar Overdentures
Authors: Abdel‐Khalek Elsayed Abdallah
Published: October 2017

A standardized periapical radiograph is still the most suitable technique for monitoring peri‐implant osseous destruction during long‐term treatment. This article describes a new method for custom fabrication of an acrylic template with standardized reproducible assessment of implants retaining mandibular bar overdentures, without removal of the bar and regardless of the implant system used.
Physiological and health‐related response of broiler chickens fed diets containing raw, full‐fat soya bean meal supplemented with microbial protease
Authors: Erdaw M. M. , Perez‐Maldonado R. A. , Iji P. A.
Published: October 2017

A 2 × 3 factorial study (protease: 0 or 1,5000 PROT/kg and raw full‐fat soya bean meal [RSBM] replacing the commercial SBM at 0, 45 and 75 g/kg of diet) was conducted to examine the performance of broilers. Phytase (2000 FYT/kg) was uniformly added to each diet, each also replicated six times, with eight birds per replicate. Birds were raised in climate‐controlled rooms using sawdust as the bedding material and offered starter, grower and finisher diets. Feed intake (FI) and body weight gain (BWG) were reduced (p < .05) due to increasing levels of RSBM, but feed conversion ratio (FCR; 0–35 days) was unaffected. Over the first 24 days, neither RSBM nor protease supplementation affected (p > .05) mortality, footpad dermatitis or intestinal lesions in birds. At day 24, the weight, length, width and strength of tibia bone were reduced in chickens that received an elevated level of RSBM (75 g/kg of diet), but this was not significant at day 35. At day 24 (p < .05) and 35 (p < .01), Ca concentration in the litter was reduced when the RSBM level was increased in the diet, but P content was not affected. On days 24 (p < .05) and 35 (p < .01), the N content in litter was also increased with increase in dietary RSBM. Protease supplementation increased (p < .05) the uric acid concentration in the litter (at day 35), but the reverse was the case for ammonia concentration. Overall, the results of this study indicate that there are no major health‐related risks, associated with the replacement of commercial SBM with RSBM (≤25%) in broiler diets.
Sleep duration is associated with sperm chromatin integrity among young men in Chongqing, China
Authors: Wang Xiaogang , Chen Qing , Zou Peng , Liu Taixiu , Mo Min , Yang Huan , Zhou Niya , Sun Lei , Chen Hongqiang , Ling Xi , Peng Kaige , Ao Lin , Yang Huifang , Cao Jia , Cui Zhihong
Published: October 2017

This study explores whether sleep duration is associated with sperm chromatin integrity. To do so, we conducted a three‐phase panel study of 796 male volunteers from colleges in Chongqing (China) from 2013 to 2015. Sleep duration was measured using a modified Munich Chronotype Questionnaire. Sperm DNA integrity was examined via Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay and Comet assay. Setting 7–7.5 h day−1 of sleep duration as a reference, either longer or shorter sleep duration was associated negatively with high DNA stainability (HDS) (P = 0.009), which reflected the immaturity of sperm chromatin. The volunteers with > 9.0 h day−1 sleep and those with ≤ 6.5 h day−1 sleep had 40.7 and 30.3% lower HDS than did volunteers with 7–7.5 h day−1 sleep. No association was found between sleep duration and DNA fragmentation index or Comet assay parameters. This study suggests that sleep duration is associated with sperm chromatin integrity. Further studies are required to validate these findings and investigate the mechanism underlying this association.
Genomics of adaptive divergence with chromosome‐scale heterogeneity in crossover rate
Authors: Berner Daniel , Roesti Marius
Published: October 2017

Genetic differentiation between divergent populations is often greater in chromosome centres than peripheries. Commonly overlooked, this broadscale differentiation pattern is sometimes ascribed to heterogeneity in crossover rate and hence linked selection within chromosomes, but the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. A literature survey across 46 organisms reveals that most eukaryotes indeed exhibit a reduced crossover rate in chromosome centres relative to the peripheries. Using simulations of populations diverging into ecologically different habitats through sorting of standing genetic variation, we demonstrate that such chromosome‐scale heterogeneity in crossover rate, combined with polygenic divergent selection, causes stronger hitchhiking and especially barriers to gene flow across chromosome centres. Without requiring selection on new mutations, this rapidly leads to elevated population differentiation in the low‐crossover centres relative to the high‐crossover peripheries of chromosomes (“Chromosome Centre‐Biased Differentiation”, CCBD). Using simulated and empirical data, we then show that strong CCBD between populations can provide evidence of polygenic adaptive divergence with a phase of gene flow. We further demonstrate that chromosome‐scale heterogeneity in crossover rate impacts analyses beyond that of population differentiation, including the inference of phylogenies and parallel adaptive evolution among populations, the detection of genetic loci under selection, and the interpretation of the strength of selection on genomic regions. Overall, our results call for a greater appreciation of chromosome‐scale heterogeneity in crossover rate in evolutionary genomics.
Beyond Realism and Moralism: A Defense of Political Minimalism
Authors: Rodríguez‐Alcázar Javier
Published: October 2017

What is the relationship between morals and politics? What is the relationship between moral philosophy and political philosophy? Defenders of political moralism postulate moral aims or constraints for politics, and hence they see political philosophy as a chapter of moral philosophy. Contrastingly, advocates of political realism describe politics as an independent endeavor aiming at providing order and security, and conceive of political philosophy as an autonomous discipline. This article claims that political moralism and political realism share the mistake of assuming that politics has substantial, permanent goals or constraints. After criticizing political substantialism, the article explains the main ingredients of its alternative, political minimalism: (1) the idea that politics, understood as collective instrumental rationality, aims at providing adequate means for the accomplishment of people's goals, whatever these are; and (2) the conception of the relationship between morality and politics as one of “reciprocal containment.” Finally, it addresses some foreseeable criticisms of political minimalism.
Toward a Philosophy of Blockchain: A Symposium: Introduction
Authors: Swan Melanie , de Filippi Primavera
Published: October 2017

This article introduces the symposium “Toward a Philosophy of Blockchain,” which provides a philosophical contemplation of blockchain technology, the digital ledger software underlying cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin, for the secure transfer of money, assets, and information via the Internet without needing a third‐party intermediary. The symposium offers philosophical scholarship on a new topic, blockchain technology, from a variety of perspectives. The philosophical themes discussed include mathematical models of reality, signification, and the sociopolitical institutions that structure human life and interaction. The symposium also investigates the metaphilosophical theme of how to create a philosophy of anything, specifically a new topic such as blockchain technology. Repeated themes are identified, in all areas of philosophical inquiry (ontology, epistemology, and axiology), and conceptual resources are elaborated to contribute to a philosophical understanding of blockchain technology. Thus, philosophy as a metaphilosophical approach is shown to be able to provide an understanding of the conceptual, theoretical, and foundational dimensions of novelty and emergence in the world, with a particular focus on blockchain technology.
On the Continuity and Origin of Identity in Distributed Ledgers: Learning from Russell's Paradox
Authors: Parra Moyano JosÉ
Published: October 2017

This article studies the origin and continuity of the identity of the entities inscribed in a distributed ledger. Specifically, it focuses on the differences between the identities of the entities that exist in a distributed ledger and those of the entities that exist outside the ledger but must be represented in the ledger in order to interact with it. It suggests that a distributed ledger that contains representations of entities that exist outside the ledger can yield a continuum of interconnected existing and past identities that is constantly redefined to represent new conceptual entities. This continuum can be understood as a metasortal—or a sortal of sortals—that resembles the mathematical structure of a set of sets. Further, the article presents the dilemma that arises when representing the identities of entities in a distributed ledger, and it draws an analogy between this dilemma and Russell's Paradox.
The Metaphors of Knowledge and Academic Impact
Authors: Kivistö Sari , Pihlström Sami
Published: October 2017

This essay discusses critically the ways in which different metaphors employed to illustrate the practices of knowledge production and knowledge acquisition as well as scientific and scholarly research shape our understanding of the academic form of life. The essay examines the metaphors of knowledge and their role in academia by means of philosophical analysis and a rhetorical analysis of language, thereby defending the core values of academic freedom. It focuses on two pairs of metaphors highly relevant to the tensions characteristic of contemporary academic work: verticality and horizontality, on the one hand, and change and stability, on the other. The entanglement of perspectives from philosophy and historical rhetoric serves a metaphilosophical goal here: to show that our philosophical understanding of the nature of inquiry will be considerably enhanced if we seriously, and with both historical and literary sensibilities, study the metaphors we use in characterizing our epistemic and cognitive projects.
Computing Ledgers and the Political Ontology of the Blockchain
Authors: Velasco Pablo R.
Published: October 2017

This paper investigates ontological dimensions of the blockchain by asking what kind of socio‐technical object bitcoin is. It discusses both blockchain's political qualities and the political forms enabled by its emergence. It first observes recent approaches to the ontology of money and the political qualities of the ledgers used by the current fractional reserve banking model. It then directs the same questions at blockchain technology. The paper discusses an ontology proposed by Ole Bjerg (2016) and argues in favour of a mixed‐ontology approach to blockchains. It then questions the political qualities of the distributed ledger as a digital object and highlights the apparent absence of authority figures in the model. Finally, it argues that the political ontology of the blockchain can be framed as the displacement of authority from institutional actors into instrumental control of trust, in a dynamically distributed environment.
Multiple Taf subunits of TFIID interact with Ino2 activation domains and contribute to expression of genes required for yeast phospholipid biosynthesis
Authors: Hintze Stefan , Engelhardt Maike , van Diepen Laura , Witt Eric , Schüller Hans‐Joachim
Published: October 2017

Expression of phospholipid biosynthetic genes in yeast requires activator protein Ino2 which can bind to the UAS element inositol/choline‐responsive element (ICRE) and trigger activation of target genes, using two separate transcriptional activation domains, TAD1 and TAD2. However, it is still unknown which cofactors mediate activation by TADs of Ino2. Here, we show that multiple subunits of basal transcription factor TFIID (TBP‐associated factors Taf1, Taf4, Taf6, Taf10 and Taf12) are able to interact in vitro with activation domains of Ino2. Interaction was no longer observed with activation‐defective variants of TAD1. We were able to identify two nonoverlapping regions in the N‐terminus of Taf1 (aa 1–100 and aa 182–250) each of which could interact with TAD1 of Ino2 as well as with TAD4 of activator Adr1. Specific missense mutations within Taf1 domain aa 182–250 affecting basic and hydrophobic residues prevented interaction with wild‐type TAD1 and caused reduced expression of INO1. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation we demonstrated Ino2‐dependent recruitment of Taf1 and Taf6 to ICRE‐containing promoters INO1 and CHO2. Transcriptional derepression of INO1 was no longer possible with temperature‐sensitive taf1 and taf6 mutants cultivated under nonpermissive conditions. This result supports the hypothesis of Taf‐dependent expression of structural genes activated by Ino2.
Developmental stage influences chromosome segregation patterns and arrangement in the extremely polyploid, giant bacterium Epulopiscium sp. type B
Authors: Hutchison Elizabeth , Yager Nicholas A. , Taw May N. , Taylor Matthew , Arroyo Francine , Sannino David R. , Angert Esther R.
Published: October 2017

Few studies have described chromosomal dynamics in bacterial cells with more than two complete chromosome copies or described changes with respect to development in polyploid cells. We examined the arrangement of chromosomal loci in the very large, highly polyploid, uncultivated intestinal symbiont Epulopiscium sp. type B using fluorescent in situ hybridization. We found that in new offspring, chromosome replication origins (oriCs) are arranged in a three‐dimensional array throughout the cytoplasm. As development progresses, most oriCs become peripherally located. Siblings within a mother cell have similar numbers of oriCs. When chromosome orientation was assessed in situ by labeling two chromosomal regions, no specific pattern was detected. The Epulopiscium genome codes for many of the conserved positional guide proteins used for chromosome segregation in bacteria. Based on this study, we present a model that conserved chromosomal maintenance proteins, combined with entropic demixing, provide the forces necessary for distributing oriCs. Without the positional regulation afforded by radial confinement, chromosomes are more randomly oriented in Epulopiscium than in most small rod‐shaped cells. Furthermore, we suggest that the random orientation of individual chromosomes in large polyploid cells would not hamper reproductive success as it would in smaller cells with more limited genomic resources.
X‐ray elemental mapping techniques for elucidating the ecophysiology of hyperaccumulator plants
Authors: van der Ent Antony , Przybyłowicz Wojciech J. , de Jonge Martin D. , Harris Hugh H. , Ryan Chris G. , Tylko Grzegorz , Paterson David J. , Barnabas Alban D. , Kopittke Peter M. , Mesjasz‐Przybyłowicz Jolanta
Published: October 2017

Contents

Summary
432

I.
Introduction
433

II.
Preparation of plant samples for X‐ray micro‐analysis
433

III.
X‐ray elemental mapping techniques
438

IV.
X‐ray data analysis
442

V.
Case studies
443

VI.
Conclusions
446

Acknowledgements
449

Author contributions
449

References
449

Hyperaccumulators are attractive models for studying metal(loid) homeostasis, and probing the spatial distribution and coordination chemistry of metal(loid)s in their tissues is important for advancing our understanding of their ecophysiology. X‐ray elemental mapping techniques are unique in providing in situ information, and with appropriate sample preparation offer results true to biological conditions of the living plant. The common platform of these techniques is a reliance on characteristic X‐rays of elements present in a sample, excited either by electrons (scanning/transmission electron microscopy), protons (proton‐induced X‐ray emission) or X‐rays (X‐ray fluorescence microscopy). Elucidating the cellular and tissue‐level distribution of metal(loid)s is inherently challenging and accurate X‐ray analysis places strict demands on sample collection, preparation and analytical conditions, to avoid elemental redistribution, chemical modification or ultrastructural alterations. We compare the merits and limitations of the individual techniques, and focus on the optimal field of applications for inferring ecophysiological processes in hyperaccumulator plants. X‐ray elemental mapping techniques can play a key role in answering questions at every level of metal(loid) homeostasis in plants, from the rhizosphere interface, to uptake pathways in the roots and shoots. Further improvements in technological capabilities offer exciting perspectives for the study of hyperaccumulator plants into the future.
Addressing weight bias and discrimination: moving beyond raising awareness to creating change
Authors: Ramos Salas X. , Alberga A. S. , Cameron E. , Estey L. , Forhan M. , Kirk S. F. L. , Russell‐Mayhew S. , Sharma A. M.
Published: October 2017

Weight discrimination is the unjust treatment of individuals because of their weight. There have been very few interventions to address weight discrimination, due in part to the lack of consensus on key messages and strategies. The objective of the third Canadian Weight Bias Summit was to review current evidence and move towards consensus on key weight bias and obesity discrimination reduction messages and strategies. Using a modified brokered dialogue approach, participants, including researchers, health professionals, policy makers and people living with obesity, reviewed the evidence and moved towards consensus on key messages and strategies for future interventions. Participants agreed to these key messages: (1) Weight bias and obesity discrimination should not be tolerated in education, health care and public policy sectors; (2) obesity should be recognized and treated as a chronic disease in health care and policy sectors; and (3) in the education sector, weight and health need to be decoupled. Consensus on future strategies included (1) creating resources to support policy makers, (2) using personal narratives from people living with obesity to engage audiences and communicate anti‐discrimination messages and (3) developing a better clinical definition for obesity. Messages and strategies should be implemented and evaluated using consistent theoretical frameworks and methodologies.
Bacteremia after supragingival scaling and dental extraction: Culture and molecular analyses
Authors: Reis LC , Rôças IN , Siqueira JF , de Uzeda M , Lacerda VS , Domingues RMCP , Miranda KR , Saraiva RM
Published: October 2017

Objective

To study the incidence and magnitude of bacteremia after dental extraction and supragingival scaling.

Subjects and methods

Blood samples were taken before and 5 and 30 min after dental extraction and supragingival scaling from individuals at high (n = 44) or negligible risk (n = 51) for infective endocarditis. The former received prophylactic antibiotic therapy. Samples were subjected to aerobic and anaerobic culture and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction to determine the incidence of bacteremia and total bacterial levels.

Results

Patients who did not receive prophylactic antibiotic therapy had a higher incidence of positive blood cultures (30% 5 min after extraction) than patients who received prophylactic antibiotic therapy (0% 5 min after extraction; p < .01). Molecular analysis did not reveal significant differences in the incidence or magnitude of bacteremia between the two patient groups either 5 or 30 min after each of the procedures evaluated. Extraction was associated with higher incidence of bacteremia than supragingival scaling by blood culture (p = .03) and molecular analysis (p = .05).

Conclusions

Molecular methods revealed that dental extraction and supragingival scaling were associated with similar incidence of bacteremia in groups receiving or not prophylactic antibiotic therapy. However, blood culture revealed that antibiotic therapy reduced viable cultivable bacteria in the bloodstream in the extraction group.
Contrasting effects of ectomycorrhizal and arbuscular mycorrhizal tropical tree species on soil nitrogen cycling: the potential mechanisms and corresponding adaptive strategies
Authors: Lin Guigang , Guo Dali , Li Liang , Ma Chengen , Zeng De‐Hui
Published: October 2017

While it is increasingly recognized that ectomycorrhizal (ECM) and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) tree species vary in their effects on soil nitrogen (N) cycling, little is known about the mechanisms causing and how ECM and AM trees adapt to this variation. Using monoculture plots of six ECM and eight AM tropical trees planted in a common garden, we examined whether the contrasting effects of ECM and AM trees on soil N cycling could be explained by their differences in plant traits. Furthermore, rhizosphere effects on soil N transformations and soil exploration by fine roots were also measured to assess whether ECM and AM trees differed in N acquisition capacities. Results showed that soil NH4+‐N concentration, net N mineralization and net nitrification rates were markedly lower, but soil C:N ratio was significantly higher beneath ECM trees than beneath AM trees. This more closed N cycling caused by ECM trees was attributed to their resource‐conservative traits, especially the poorer leaf litter decomposability compared with AM trees. To adapt to their induced lower soil N availability, ECM trees were found to have greater rhizosphere effects on NO3‐‐N concentration, net N mineralization and net nitrification rates to mine N, and higher soil exploration in terms of root length density to scavenge N from soils, indicating that these two strategies work in synergy to meet N demand of ECM trees. These findings suggest that ECM and AM trees have contrasting effects on soil N cycling owing to their differences in leaf litter decomposability and correspondingly possess different N acquisition capacities.
Use of immature seed germination and single seed descent for rapid genetic gains in pigeonpea
Authors: Saxena Kulbhushan , Saxena Rachit K. , Varshney Rajeev K.
Published: October 2017

Long duration required for generation advancement in pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp] is one of the major bottlenecks in realizing rapid genetic gains. Therefore, a technology for rapid generation turnover is warranted to facilitate the development of new cultivars and recombinant inbred lines. Breeding of early‐maturing cultivars has now opened up the possibility of rapid generation advance (RGA) in this crop. This paper reports the development of an RGA technology that integrates the germination of immature seeds with single seed descent method of breeding. The results showed that immature 35‐day‐old seeds can be used successfully to turn over a generation of pigeonpea with 100% seed germination. These way 3/4 successive generations can be grown within a year. The methodology presented in this study will accelerate the breeding process for breeding cultivars and develop rapidly the materials required for genomics research in pigeonpea.
Winning at All Costs: Analysis of Inflation in Nursing Homes’ Rating System
Authors: Han Xu , Yaraghi Niam , Gopal Ram
Published: October 2017

The Nursing Home Compare system administrated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is widely used by patients, medical providers and payers. We argue that the rating system is prone to inflation in self‐reported measures, which leads to biased and misleading ratings. We use the CMS rating data over 2009–2013 and the corresponding financial data reported by Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development and patients’ complaints data reported by California Department of Public Health for 1219 nursing homes in California to empirically examine the key factors affecting the star rating of a nursing home. We find a significant association between the changes in a nursing home's star rating and its profits, which points to a financial incentive for nursing homes to improve the ratings. We then demonstrate that this association does not always lead to legitimate efforts to improve service quality, but instead can induce inflation in self‐reporting in the rating procedure. A prediction model is then developed to evaluate the extensiveness of inflation among the suspect population based on which 6% to 8.5% of the nursing homes are identified as likely inflators. We also summarize the key characteristics of likely inflators, which can be useful for future audit.
Low pathotype diversity in a recombinant Puccinia striiformis population through convergent selection at the eastern Himalayan centre of diversity (Nepal)
Authors: Ali S. , Sharma S. , Leconte M. , Shah S. J. A. , Duveiller E. , Enjalbert J. , de Vallavieille‐Pope C.
Published: October 2017

Worldwide Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst) epidemics have been reported to be driven by few genetic lineages, while a high diversity is evident at the Pst Himalayan centre of diversity. This study investigated the relationship between pathotype diversity and genetic structure in Nepal, the eastern Himalayan region, which has been largely unexplored. Despite the high genetic diversity and recombinant structure detected through microsatellite genotyping, characterization of virulence phenotypes for 62 isolates identified only eight pathotypes, with two pathotypes predominant over all the populations. This is in contrast to the Pakistani and Chinese recombinant populations, where high pathotype diversity is associated with genetic diversity. The most prevalent Nepali pathotype was not a unique clonal lineage, but was represented by seven multilocus genotypes from four distinct genetic subgroups, suggesting strong directional selection on virulence genes, resulting in convergent pathotypes in distinct genetic groups. This convergent selection is discussed in comparison with clonal French and recombinant Pakistani populations. Additionally, the Nepali Pst population carried virulence to 17 out of 24 tested yellow rust resistance genes (Yr), with the absence of virulence to Victo and Early Premium and resistance genes Yr5, Yr10, Yr15, Yr24 and Yr26. Virulence to Yr2, Yr7, Yr27 and YrSu were fixed in all isolates, in line with the deployment of these resistance genes in Nepal. The results reflect the influence of resistance gene deployment on selection of virulence and pathotypes in a recombinant pathogen population, which must be considered in the context of durable resistance gene deployment.
Accountability and Coalitions: Evidence from a Negotiation Experiment
Authors: Bouwman Robin , van Thiel Sandra , van Deemen Ad , Rouwette Etiënne
Published: October 2017

This article tests the effect of accountability on negotiation outcomes in a face‐to‐face classroom experiment. Student participants were asked to form coalitions in groups of three. In the treatment condition, negotiators were held accountable by a personal forum during the formation of the coalition. In the control condition, negotiators were not held accountable. Results show that accountability leads to lower group performance in coalition negotiations. Accountability also reduced the willingness of negotiators to include all negotiators in a “grand coalition.” Rather, accountable negotiators reached agreement with a subset of negotiators. Accountability increased the odds of reaching no agreement. These findings challenge the idea of increased performance as a result of public accountability in the context of coalition negotiations.
A novel HLA‐B allele, HLA‐B*35:348, was identified by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Ma W.‐H. , Wu Y.‐Q. , Feng Z.‐H. , Pang S.‐T.
Published: October 2017

HLA‐B*35:348 has 1 nucleotide substitution, c.817G > C (GTG→CTG at codon 248) compared with B*35:01:01:01.
Identification of a novel allele, HLA‐A*02:189, in a Chinese Han individual
Authors: Zhong Y.‐P. , Quan Z.‐R. , Chen H. , Gao S.‐Q.
Published: October 2017

HLA‐A*02:189 differs from HLA‐A*02:01:01:01 by a single substitution in exon 3 (846 G > T).
Utilization of increased risk for transmission of infectious disease donor organs in solid organ transplantation: Retrospective analysis of disease transmission and safety
Authors: Irwin Linda , Kotton Camille N. , Elias Nahel , Palafox Julie , Basler Debra , Shao Sarah H. , Lester William , Zhang Xiaofeng , Kimball Brendan , Trencher Carrie , Fishman Jay A.
Published: October 2017

The inadequate supply of transplantable organs necessitates new approaches to organ availability. Serologies and nucleic acid testing (NAT) for hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are used in microbiologic screening of potential organ donors. Organs from donors considered at “high risk” (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC 1994) or “increased risk” (U.S. Public Health Service, PHS 2013) for transmission of viral infection to recipients may provide an expanded source of organs for transplantation. We review a single‐center experience with 257 adult organ recipients of organs from donors meeting either CDC 1994 or PHS 2013 risk criteria between 2011 and 2016. Tracking these transplants required modification of the Transplant Center electronic database to identify all recipients of increased‐risk donor (IRD) organs, documentation of informed consent, and microbiologic testing data. No transmissions of HIV, HBV, or HCV were identified by NAT or clinically. Nine patients developed positive serologic assays for one of the tested viruses; all recipients were retested and remain negative by NAT. Notably, post‐transplant HBV core serologies reverted to negative on re‐testing; these positive serologies are likely false positives caused by receipt of blood products. Use of IRD organs can be performed safely with appropriate informed consent and rigorous pre‐ and post‐transplant microbiological testing.
Zero cycles with modulus and zero cycles on singular varieties
Authors: Binda Federico , Krishna Amalendu
Published: October 2017

Given a smooth variety$X$and an effective Cartier divisor$D\subset X$, we show that the cohomological Chow group of 0-cycles on the double of$X$along$D$has a canonical decomposition in terms of the Chow group of 0-cycles$\text{CH}_{0}(X)$and the Chow group of 0-cycles with modulus$\text{CH}_{0}(X|D)$on$X$. When$X$is projective, we construct an Albanese variety with modulus and show that this is the universal regular quotient of$\text{CH}_{0}(X|D)$. As a consequence of the above decomposition, we prove the Roitman torsion theorem for the 0-cycles with modulus. We show that$\text{CH}_{0}(X|D)$is torsion-free and there is an injective cycle class map$\text{CH}_{0}(X|D){\hookrightarrow}K_{0}(X,D)$if$X$is affine. For a smooth affine surface$X$, this is strengthened to show that$K_{0}(X,D)$is an extension of$\text{CH}_{1}(X|D)$by$\text{CH}_{0}(X|D)$.
New soliton properties to the ill-posed Boussinesq equation arising in nonlinear physical science
Authors: Duran Serbay , Askin Muzaffer , Sulaiman Tukur Abdulkadir
Published: October 2017

In manuscript, with the help of the Wolfram Mathematica 9, we employ the modified exponential function method in obtaining some new soliton solutions to the ill-posed Boussinesq equation arising in nonlinear media. Results obtained with use of technique, and also, surfaces for soliton solutions are given. We also plot the 3D and 2D of each solution obtained in this study by using the same program in the Wolfram Mathematica 9.
Flexural instability and sound amplification of a membrane-cavity configuration in shear flow
Authors: Dai Xiwen , Aurégan Yves
Published: October 2017

The scattering of sound by a membrane-covered cavity in a duct with shear flow is calculated with a linear model based on the multimodal method. The model is verified by comparison against the previous experiments focused on sound suppression of a stable system with high-tension membranes and a low-speed flow. It is shown in this paper that such a situation is drastically changed when the flow velocity is larger than the in vacuo flexural wave speed of the membrane. One of the neutral hydrodynamic modes can be destabilized under certain conditions, and this flexural instability can lead to sound amplification. For a given flow profile, the axial growth rate of the instability increases with the mean flow velocity but saturates at high velocities. For a given mean flow velocity, there is an optimum boundary layer thickness for the instability. Increasing the structural damping tends to stabilize the instability and thus inhibit the sound amplification.
Shared Market Competition and Broadcast Viewership in the National Football League
Authors: Mondello Michael , Mills Brian M. , Tainsky Scott
Published: October 2017

This work evaluates the cross-quality elasticity of related products in the context of Nielsen Local People Meter ratings of all regular season broadcasts from 2010 through 2013 from six National Football League teams in three shared markets. Using a fixed effects panel regression, we do not uncover evidence that viewers are swayed by the success of a rival market team in their aggregate viewership patterns, contrary to what has been found in Major League Baseball. In addition, when within-market rivals play one another, we find that viewership levels increase but in a way that indicates considerable overlap of viewership and possible substitution choices made by consumers. We expand upon the implications of this work for demand estimation in sports economics research as well as the importance of our findings to sport management-related policy.
Adding Conditional Superannuation to the Antidoping Policy Mix
Authors: Lenten Liam J.A. , Smith Aaron C.T. , Bayer Ralph-Christopher
Published: October 2017

This article introduces and then examines a novel antidoping policy mechanism, based upon a conditional superannuation fund for professional athletes. It begins by presenting a theoretical case in favor of the scheme relative to the background of current policy. Consideration is given to the utility and benefits of a conditional superannuation mechanism to augment existing antidoping policy structures. The case is developed using results from a pilot experimental economics study testing the policy proposal, which suggests that the conditional superannuation mechanism has the potential to outperform existing measures, such as fines and bans. This article offers a policy variation that could supplement the existing arrangements as a contiguous mechanism. While no single policy intervention seems plausible in fully eliminating sport doping, a combination of incentive and punitive mechanisms may yield a superior policy mix to help attenuate doping’s prevalence in elite sport. The evidence presented here within the antidoping policy context may also recommend the utility of conditional superannuation as a mechanism to address other enduring challenges in sport, such as violence, gambling, and behavioral transgressions.
The Impact of Atmosphere in the City on Subjective Well-Being of Rio de Janeiro Residents During (vs. Before) the 2014 FIFA World Cup
Authors: Schlegel Andrea , Pfitzner Rebecca , Koenigstorfer Joerg
Published: October 2017

This study looks at the hosting of the 2014 Fédération Internationale de Football Association World Cup in Rio de Janeiro and, based on research drawing on environmental psychology and studies of liminality, hypothesizes that the perceived celebrative atmosphere in the city increases subjective well-being of host city residents (cariocas). Data were collected via in-person intercept surveys from 221 and 218 cariocas before and during the event, respectively. There was an increase in subjective well-being from before the event to during the event. The results of two-group path modeling revealed further that there was a positive impact of the perceived celebrative atmosphere in the host city on residents’ subjective well-being during the event; the effect was weaker (though still positive) for the time period when the event was not being hosted. Initiatives may build upon the atmospheric elements in a city to increase subjective well-being of residents, particularly in the context of event hosting.