bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does democratic transition spur financial development?
Authors: Ghardallou Wafa
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The literature studying the effect of democratic political systems on financial development has found conflicting results. Besides, recent work has focused on the level effects of democracy on financial outcomes showing evidence of positive, negative and no direct impact. This paper aims to investigate the dynamic effects of democratic transition on financial development, namely, short run and long run effects.

Design/methodology/approach

The author wants to see whether financial development improves after a transition to a democratic system and, if it does, for how long. Using a panel data set of 48 events of democratic transitions, the paper relies on an event study and on the estimation of dynamic panel after controlling for other potential determinants.

Findings

The author finds that transition to a democratic system raises the development of the financial sector. Particularly, these positive effects occurred in the long run, i.e. about 5 years following the democratic transition. However, in the short run, the author finds that the move to democracy does not impact financial outcomes.

Originality/value

The author contributes by studying the role of political system change on financial development finding that democratic transition increases the development of the financial system. Further, the author contributes by finding that the move to democracy produces positive effect only in the long term.
Managing the challenges of pharmaceutical patent expiry: a case study of Lipitor
Authors: Chao Chon Kit , Hu Hao , Zhang Liming , Wu Jihong
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The paper aims to study how global pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer have managed the challenges of pharmaceutical patent expiry.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study method was applied. The best-selling brand drug over the past 10 years – Lipitor – was chosen as the case target.

Findings

For dealing with this, this paper describes all the details of the corresponding strategies of Pfizer before and after patent expiration of Lipitor. Before patent expiry, Pfizer undertook the activities of direct-to-consumer marketing, pricing strategy for competition, legal delay and me-too drug R&D. After patent expiry, Pfizer chose to carry out continuous marketing for brand, rebate strategy, authorized generics and change to over-the-counter. In addition, diversity and globalization strategy was applied before and after patent expiry.

Research limitations/implications

This research provides strong implication for managing pharmaceutical products before and after patent expiry.

Practical implications

It is strongly recommended for both brand and generic drug companies to design strategies to meet the challenges of pharmaceutical patent expiry.

Social implications

For the global pharmaceutical market, a conclusion can be drawn that, nowadays, the “patent cliff” is the most significant factor influencing decision-makers to consider futuristic policies. Further, it is also a considerably effective solution for reducing health-care costs for policymakers.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the field of patent expiry management in high-tech industries such as pharmaceuticals.
Two cases of seborrheic keratosis with basal clear cells
Authors: Anan Takashi , Fukumoto Takaya , Kimura Tetsunori
Published: October 2016

Seborrheic keratosis with basal clear cells (SKBCC) is an extremely rare histopathological variant of seborrheic keratosis that has histological similarities to melanoma in situ. We herein report two cases of SKBCC and provide the first description of the dermoscopic features of this condition, in addition to the histopathological findings. Both of the two lesions showed typical histological architectures of seborrheic keratosis with rows or focal clusters of monomorphic clear cells with abundant pale cytoplasm and small round nucleus in the basal layer. Immunohistochemical examination revealed that most clear cells were positive for high molecular weight cytokeratin (34βE12) in a peripheral pattern but were negative tor Melan‐A. Dermoscopy revealed typical features of ordinary seborrheic keratosis, while unfortunately did not reflect the presence of basal clear cells.
Analysis of Korean acne patients according to age groups based on two multicenter studies
Authors: Park Mi Youn , Kim Kyung Ho , Kang Hoon , Kye Young Chul , Kwon Hyuck Hoon , Kim Kwang Joong , Kim Nack In , Kim Myeung Nam , Ro Young Suck , Min Seonguk , Park Kui Young , Song Margaret , Ahn Kyu Joong , Ahn Hyo Hyun , Lee Mi Woo , Lee Weon Ju , Lee Jee Bum , Choi Yu Sung , Suh Dae Hun ,   The Korean Society for Acne Research
Published: October 2016

Along with increasing public concerns on acne and its complications, increasing treatment options seem to lead more acne patients to clinics globally, including Korea. The aim of the present study was to investigate the number and distribution of acne patients according to age group by analyzing number and age of outpatients from several general hospitals in Korea. Two retrospective multicenter studies including 14 general hospitals for a maximum of 10 years were conducted by medical chart review of acne patients. During the last 10 years, total acne patients have increased by 60% in number and patients under the age of 19 years have doubled. Adult acne patients (aged >18 years) accounted for the biggest portion in total acne patients at over 80%. Although upper grade of elementary school patients (aged 10–12 years) accounted for the biggest portion among the childhood acne patients, children under 10 years have also increased rapidly by 73% during the last 10 years. Childhood acne patients (aged <13 years) accounted for 11% of total acne patients. We found that acne patients were increasing consistently and the portion of those aged under 19 years is getting bigger. Additionally, childhood acne patients have increased remarkably.
Increased circulating anti‐α6‐integrin autoantibodies in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis but not in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Gál Brigitta , Dulic Sonja , Kiss Mária , Groma Gergely , Kovács László , Kemény Lajos , Bata‐Csörgő Zsuzsanna
Published: October 2016

In psoriatic skin, laminin integrity is altered, which could lead to insufficient laminin integrin interactions, leaving the α6‐integrin exposed and possibly accessible for autoantibody production. Therefore we investigated the presence of anti‐α6‐integrin autoantibodies in the serum of patients with psoriasis vulgaris (Ps), psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in comparison with healthy donors. The level of circulating anti‐α6‐integrin antibodies was determined by enzyme‐linked immunoassay using α6‐integrin fragments. Antibodies against at least one recombinant fragment were found in approximately 30% of Ps and PsA patients. In contrast, in RA patients, the frequency of antibodies was similar to healthy controls. Our study shows the presence of anti‐α6‐integrin antibodies in Ps and PsA but not in RA, which could indicate ongoing abnormal processes in the skin. Anti‐α6‐integrin autoantibodies may contribute to the formation of micro‐wounds in the skin and to the characteristic wound‐healing phenotype in psoriasis.
Understanding the complex family experiences of Behavioural Family Therapy
Authors: O'Hanlon Brendan , Hayes Laura , Perlesz Amaryll , Harvey Carol
Published: October 2016

Family psychoeducational interventions including Behavioural Family Therapy have an impressive evidence base in the treatment of schizophrenia. While there are challenges in their implementation including the engagement of families, in the few qualitative studies of Behavioural Family Therapy, families report largely positive experiences. Understanding more about families’ experiences of Behavioural Family Therapy could guide changes to practice to improve implementation. This qualitative study involved interviews with twenty clients diagnosed with schizophrenia and twenty relatives who participated in Behavioural Family Therapy in Australia. Participants valued sharing experiences between family members and their relationship with the practitioner. Unlike previous studies they reported discomfort in sessions and disappointment in aspects of Behavioural Family Therapy. Greater emphasis on addressing this discomfort and on therapeutic alliance may help overcome implementation challenges.

Practitioner points

Practitioners can use their therapeutic alliance with families to promote shared understanding by providing information as well as facilitating information sharing between family members

Practitioners need to recognize and respond to the high levels of discomfort experienced by families and particularly the vulnerability of the person with schizophrenia

An increased focus on engagement and the therapeutic alliance may improve the implementation of BFT in services
A Comparative Analysis of Multidimensional Poverty in Sudan and South Sudan
Authors: Ballon Paola , Duclos Jean‐Yves
Published: October 2016

This paper assesses multidimensional poverty in Sudan and South Sudan. We use the National Baseline Household Surveys of 2009 to measure poverty incidence in education, consumption, access to public assets and possession of private assets across these two countries. We differentiate between children aged 6 to 14 years and adults aged 15 years or older. We apply a counting method for measuring multidimensional poverty at the individual level and perform dominance tests to check for the robustness of the poverty comparisons. Our findings show regional and sub‐population differences in the unidimensional and multidimensional poverty status of people in both countries. Poverty in Sudan is generally less severe than in South Sudan, with a pattern showing (1) lesser unidimensional incidence of poverty and (2) lower multidimensional poverty indices and prevalence, but similar breadth, both for adults and children. This pattern also points towards Khartoum and Western Equatoria as the states with the least poverty, and Northern Darfur, and Warap as the states with the greatest poverty, both for adults and children, in Sudan and South Sudan, respectively. Policy intended at reducing poverty in each of the two countries should recognize the poverty profile differences across age groups, geographical areas and dimensions.
Child Labour and Schooling in South Sudan and Sudan: Is There a Gender Preference?
Authors: Bérenger Valérie , Verdier‐Chouchane Audrey
Published: October 2016

Based on the 2009 household surveys conducted in Sudan and South Sudan, the objective of this article is to analyse gender inequality for the young population aged 10 to 14 who should be at school. Although education is free in both countries, children's enrolment at school is low especially for girls, many of them stay home performing domestic chores or have an economic activity particularly in rural areas. The bivariate probit model highlights the key role of the household head's education, gender and poverty status in determining children's schooling. Drawing on Pal () who extended the Oaxaca‐Blinder decomposition, we confirm that children's activity in Sudan and South Sudan is strongly determined by the fact of being a girl or a boy. The article also provides some policy recommendations to address the issues of low school attendance and high gender inequality.
Trump in Scotland: A Study of Power‐Topologies and Golf Topographies
Authors: Jönsson Erik
Published: October 2016

During the last decade Trump International Golf Links Scotland (TIGLS) has built on land where no development was previously outlined and, appropriating parts of a Site of Special Scientific Interest, has come to occupy an important place in debates on Scottish planning policy. Though plans were initially rejected in 2007 by the Aberdeenshire planning body responsible, the Scottish Government subsequently rescaled the decision—instead approving the proposed high‐end, large‐scale golf resort. Besides numerous clashes with those living close to TIGLS, this has since led to highly visible protests. In this article I scrutinize TIGLS's establishment to explore the entanglements of topological and topographic understandings of space, and to illuminate power exerted through various modalities by various private and public actors. Based on interviews with politicians, activists, planners, residents and business representatives and an analysis of planning documents, developer–state communications, and marketing material, I argue that work on power‐topologies and relational geographies has much to offer. But, crucially, this work simultaneously risks underplaying the role material landscapes play in conflicts over planning policy and the power exerted to dominate such landscapes. Thus, emphasizing topology proves insufficient unless coupled with a focus on the power involved in appropriating and reshaping material topographies.
Improving Communication and Resolution Following Adverse Events Using a Patient‐Created Simulation Exercise
Authors: Gallagher Thomas H. , Etchegaray Jason M. , Bergstedt Brandelyn , Chappelle Amelia M. , Ottosen Madelene J. , Sedlock Emily W. , Thomas Eric J.
Published: October 2016

Objective

The response to adverse events can lack patient‐centeredness, perhaps because the involved institutions and other stakeholders misunderstand what patients and families go through after care breakdowns.

Study Setting

Washington and Texas.

Study Design

The HealthPact Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) created and led a five‐stage simulation exercise to help stakeholders understand what patients experience following an adverse event. The half‐day exercise was presented twice.

Data Collection and Analysis

Lessons learned related to the development and conduct of the exercise were synthesized from planning notes, attendee evaluations, and exercise discussion notes.

Principal Findings

One hundred ninety‐four individuals attended (86 Washington and 108 Texas). Take‐homes from these exercises included the fact that the response to adverse events can be complex, siloed, and uncoordinated. Participating in this simulation exercise led stakeholders and patient advocates to express interest in continued collaboration.

Conclusions

A PFAC‐designed simulation can help stakeholders understand patient and family experiences following adverse events and potentially improve their response to these events.
Molecular characterization of three Hsp90 from Pieris and expression patterns in response to cold and thermal stress in summer and winter diapause of Pieris melete
Authors: Wu Yue‐Kun , Zou Chao , Fu Dao‐Meng , Zhang Wan‐Na , Xiao Hai‐Jun
Published: October 2016

Heat shock proteins (Hsps) have been linked to stresses and winter diapause in insects, but whether they are components of summer diapause is still unknown. In this study, complementary DNAs of Hsp90 from Pieris melete, Pieris rapae and Pieris canidia named PmHsp90, PrHsp90 and PcHsp90, respectively, were cloned and sequenced. The deduced amino acid sequence consisted of 718 amino acid residues with a putative molecular mass of 82.6, 82.6 and 82.7 kDa, respectively. The amino acid sequences contained all of the five conserved signature motifs in the Hsp90 family and a bHLH protein folding activity region. The differential expression pattern of PmHsp90 in response to summer diapause and winter diapause, which are related to heat/cold stress, was investigated. Cold stress induced Hsp90 up‐regulation in summer and winter diapause pupae, but not in non‐diapause individuals. Heat shock up‐regulated PmHsp90 gradually with an increase in temperature in summer diapause, and PmHsp90 was rapidly up‐regulated in winter diapause. After 30 min heat shock at 39°C, substantial up‐regulation of PmHsp90 transcript levels were observed both in summer and winter diapause. However, in non‐diapause a relatively stable expression was found under different durations of 39°C heat shock. Compared to the optimal treatment of 18°C for diapause development, a high temperature acclimation of 31°C induced PmHsp90 up‐regulation in summer diapause, whereas a low temperature acclimation of 4°C induced up‐regulation in winter diapause. The current results indicate that Hsp90 may play an important role in response to heat/cold stress both in summer and winter diapause.
Behavioral Responses to Novelty or to a Predator Stimulus Are Not Altered in Adult Zebrafish by Early Embryonic Alcohol Exposure
Authors: Seguin Diane , Shams Soaleha , Gerlai Robert
Published: October 2016

Background

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) may vary in symptoms and severity. In the milder and more prevalent forms of the disease, behavioral abnormalities may include impaired social behavior, for example, difficulty interpreting social cues. Patients with FASD remain often undiagnosed due to lack of biomarkers, and treatment is unavailable because the mechanisms of the disease are not yet understood. Animal models have been proposed to facilitate addressing these problems. More recently, short exposure of the zebrafish embryo to low concentrations of alcohol was shown to lead to significant and lasting impairment of behavior in response to social stimuli. The impairment may be the result of abnormal social behavior or altered fear/anxiety. The goal of the current study was to investigate the latter.

Methods

Here, we employed the alcohol exposure regimen used previously (exposure of 24th hour postfertilization embryos to 0.00, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, or 1.00% vol/vol alcohol for 2 hours), allowed the fish to reach adulthood, and measured the behavioral responses of these adults to a novel tank (anxiety‐related behaviors) as well as to an animated image of a sympatric predator of zebrafish (fear‐related behaviors).

Results

We found behavioral responses of embryonic alcohol‐exposed adult fish to remain statistically indistinguishable from those of controls, suggesting unaltered anxiety and fear in the embryonic alcohol‐treated fish.

Conclusions

Given that motor and perceptual function was previously shown to be also unaltered in the adults after embryonic alcohol exposure, our current results suggest that the impaired response of these fish to social stimuli may be the result of abnormal social behavior.
A clinical trial with combined transcranial direct current stimulation and alcohol approach bias retraining
Authors: den Uyl Tess E. , Gladwin Thomas E. , Rinck Mike , Lindenmeyer Johannes , Wiers Reinout W.
Published: October 2016

Two studies showed an improvement in clinical outcomes after alcohol approach bias retraining, a form of Cognitive Bias Modification (CBM). We investigated whether transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) could enhance effects of CBM. TDCS is a neuromodulation technique that can increase neuroplasticity and has previously been found to reduce craving. One hundred alcohol‐dependent inpatients (91 used for analysis) were randomized into three experimental groups in a double‐blind parallel design. The experimental group received four sessions of CBM while receiving 2 mA of anodal tDCS over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). There were two control groups: One received sham stimulation during training and one received active stimulation at a different moment. Treatment outcomes were abstinence duration (primary) and relapse after 3 and 12 months, craving and approach bias (secondary). Craving and approach bias scores decreased over time; there were no significant interactions with experimental condition. There was no effect on abstinence duration after three months (χ2(2) = 3.53, p = 0.77). However, a logistic regression on relapse rates after one year (standard outcome in the clinic, but not‐preregistered) showed a trend when relevant predictors were included; relapse was lower in the condition receiving active stimulation during CBM only when comparing to sham stimulation (B = 1.52, S.E. = .836, p = .07, without predictors: p = .19). No strong evidence for a specific enhancement effect of tDCS on CBM was found. However, in a post‐hoc analysis, tDCS combined with CBM showed a promising trend on treatment outcome. Important limitations are discussed, and replication is necessary to find more reliable effects.
Responses of an Australian freshwater turtle to drought‐flood cycles along a natural to urban gradient
Authors: Ferronato Bruno O. , Roe John H. , Georges Arthur
Published: October 2016

Urban areas provide habitat for numerous native species, but life in towns and cities presents many challenges. The effect of climate on the ecology and the behaviour of non‐volant vertebrates inhabiting urban habitats have received little attention. In this study, we investigated demography, growth rates, movements and reproduction of a semi‐aquatic freshwater turtle, Chelodina longicollis, along a natural to urban gradient during a period of relatively high rainfall (2011–2014) and compared this to a previous study in the same system during drought (2006–2007). In addition to changes in rainfall, urbanization increased considerably over the same time period and a pest‐exclusion fence was constructed to mitigate against urban hazards encroaching on the adjacent reserve. Turtles grew at similar rates, had similar abundances and sex ratios and had similar reproductive output across the gradient from urban to non‐urban sites during the wet period. Despite increasing urbanization, recruitment occurred at all sites and survivorship estimates were similar among sites. Turtles moved among wetlands at high rates and over long distances (6 km), underscoring the importance of movements in urban landscapes. Our results contrast with those for the same system during drought, when turtles were less abundant and grew slower in the nature reserve compared with the urban environment. Our results underscore the strong influence climate can have on population dynamics and resilience of species to changes brought about by urbanization. Further monitoring is required to understand the long‐term population responses of long‐lived species to drought cycles.
Pre‐diabetes and serum sex steroid hormones among US men
Authors: Arthur R. , Rohrmann S. , Møller H. , Selvin E. , Dobs A. S. , Kanarek N. , Nelson W. , Platz E. A. , Van Hemelrijck M.
Published: October 2016

Several studies demonstrate a link between diabetes and sex steroid hormones, but the link with pre‐diabetes remains elusive. In this study, we hypothesize that pre‐diabetes, which is characterised by having impaired fasting glucose and/or impaired glucose tolerance and/or impaired HbA1C, may influence circulating sex steroid hormone concentrations in men. Thus, we investigated whether serum sex steroid hormone concentrations differ between men with and without pre‐diabetes. We analyzed data for 1139 men who were aged 20+ years when they participated in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. We calculated adjusted geometric mean serum concentrations of total and estimated free testosterone, androstanediol glucuronide, total and estimated free estradiol, and sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG) in men with and without pre‐diabetes. Logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (OR) of lower concentrations of androgens and SHBG, and higher concentrations of estradiol by prediabetes status. Adjusting for age and race/ethnicity, total testosterone concentration was lower among men with (geometric mean: 4.68 ng/mL) than without (5.36 ng/mL, p = 0.01) pre‐diabetes. SHBG concentration was also lower in men with (31.67 nmol/L) than without (36.16 nmol/L; p = 0.01) pre‐diabetes. Concentrations of the other hormones did not differ between men with and without pre‐diabetes. After adjusting for demographic and lifestyle factors, pre‐diabetic men had a higher odds of lower testosterone (OR: 2.58; 95% CI: 1.54–4.29), higher free estradiol level (OR: 1.59; 95% CI: 1.14–2.22), and lower SHBG level (OR: 2.27; 95% CI: 1.32–3.92) compared to men without pre‐diabetes. These associations were attenuated after adjusting for adiposity (testosterone OR: 1.76; 95% CI 0.95–3.27, free estradiol OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 0.88–1.88, SHBG OR: 1.71; 95% CI 0.88–3.30). Our findings suggest that men with pre‐diabetes have lower circulating total testosterone and SHBG and higher free estradiol levels.
Multiple gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors treated by laparoscopic‐endoscopic cooperative surgery: A case report
Authors: Maeda Eri , Fujiwara Masao , Suto Hironobu , Asano Eisuke , Kishino Takayoshi , Yamamoto Naoki , Akamoto Shintaro , Okano Keiichi , Kobara Hideki , Mori Hirohito , Masaki Tsutomu , Suzuki Yasuyuki
Published: October 2016

The typical treatment of choice for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) is surgical resection. Here we report a case of three GIST lesions resected safely by laparoscopic‐endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS). A 78‐year‐old woman was referred to our hospital for further treatment of an enlarging gastric submucosal tumor. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy and endoscopic ultrasonography revealed two gastric submucosal tumors. Endoscopic ultrasonography‐guided fine needle aspiration was subsequently performed. The patient underwent LECS in accordance with therapeutic guidelines for GIST. Assisted by a laparoscope and using three trocars, a full‐thickness resection was performed endoscopically for the 3‐cm lesion and its nearby submucosal tumor, which was newly detected intraoperatively. The other lesion was also resected with an autosuture device under laparoscopy. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed. In LECS, endoscopic observation and resection can minimize gastric deformation and preserve gastric function. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of LECS performed on multiple GIST.
GP2015, a proposed etanercept biosimilar: Pharmacokinetic similarity to its reference product and comparison of its autoinjector device with prefilled syringes
Authors: von Richter Oliver , Skerjanec Andrej , Afonso Miguel , Sanguino Heinrich Sabine , Poetzl Johann , Woehling Heike , Velinova Maria , Koch Annelize , Kollins Dmitrij , Macke Lars , Wuerth Guido
Published: October 2016

Aims

To assess pharmacokinetics (PK) and safety of GP2015, a proposed etanercept biosimilar, in two studies: comparison with etanercept originator (ETN, bioequivalence study) and comparison of GP2015 administered via an autoinjector (AI) or prefilled syringes (PFS, delivery study).

Methods

Both studies were randomized, two‐sequence, two‐period, crossover studies conducted in healthy male subjects. In the bioequivalence study, subjects were randomized to receive a single 50 mg subcutaneous (s.c.) injection of GP2015 or ETN. In the delivery study, subjects were randomized to receive a single 50 mg s.c. injection of GP2015 via AI or PFS. Following a wash‐out period of 35 days, subjects in the bioequivalence study received single 50 mg s.c. injection of GP2015 or ETN, and subjects in the delivery study received single 50 mg s.c. injection of GP2015 via AI or PFS.

Results

The geometric mean ratios (90% confidence interval) of GP2015/ETN for Cmax (1.11 [1.05–1.17]), AUC0–tlast (0.98 [0.94–1.02]) and AUC0–inf (0.96 [0.93–1.00]) were within the predefined bioequivalence range of 0.80–1.25. The geometric mean ratios (90% confidence interval) of AI/PFS for Cmax (1.01 [0.94–1.08]), AUC0–tlast (1.01 [0.95–1.07]) and AUC0–inf (1.01 [0.96–1.07]) were also within the range 0.80–1.25. No new safety issues were reported. Three subjects had low titres of non‐neutralising anti‐drug antibodies during a follow‐up visit in the bioequivalence study.

Conclusions

The PK of GP2015 was similar to ETN, demonstrating bioequivalence. The safety profile of GP2015 was consistent with previous reports for ETN. The GP2015 AI provided equivalent dosing and tolerability to the GP2015 PFS.
Integrative Genetic Risk Prediction Using Non-Parametric Empirical Bayes Classification
Authors: Zhao Sihai Dave
Published: October 2016

Genetic risk prediction is an important component of individualized medicine, but prediction accuracies remain low for many complex diseases. A fundamental limitation is the sample sizes of the studies on which the prediction algorithms are trained. One way to increase the effective sample size is to integrate information from previously existing studies. However, it can be difficult to find existing data that examine the target disease of interest, especially if that disease is rare or poorly studied. Furthermore, individual-level genotype data from these auxiliary studies are typically difficult to obtain. This article proposes a new approach to integrative genetic risk prediction of complex diseases with binary phenotypes. It accommodates possible heterogeneity in the genetic etiologies of the target and auxiliary diseases using a tuning parameter-free non-parametric empirical Bayes procedure, and can be trained using only auxiliary summary statistics. Simulation studies show that the proposed method can provide superior predictive accuracy relative to non-integrative as well as integrative classifiers. The method is applied to a recent study of pediatric autoimmune diseases, where it substantially reduces prediction error for certain target/auxiliary disease combinations. The proposed method is implemented in the R package ssa.
Decreasing water availability across the globe improves the effectiveness of protective ant–plant mutualisms: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Leal Laura C. , Peixoto Paulo E. C.
Published: October 2016

Abiotic conditions can increase the costs of services and/or the benefits of rewards provided by mutualistic partners. Consequently, in some situations, the outcome of mutualisms can move from beneficial to detrimental for at least one partner. In the case of protective mutualisms between ant bodyguards and plants bearing extrafloral nectaries (EFNs), plants from arid environments face a trade‐off between EFN production and maintenance and water and carbon economy. This trade‐off may increase EFN costs and decrease their value as a defensive strategy to plants in such environments. Despite this, the presence of EFNs is an ubiquitous trait in plants from arid environments, suggesting that they provide greater benefits to plants in these environments to compensate for their higher costs. We used a meta‐analysis to investigate if such benefits do increase with decreasing water availability and the possible underlying causes (such as ant behaviour or ant diversity). As predicted, ant effect on EFN plants performance increased as mean annual precipitation decreased. We also found that the frequency of dominant ants on EFN plants increased in drier areas. Due to the more aggressive behaviour of dominant ants, we suggest that they represent an important factor shaping the adaptive value of EFNs to plants in arid environments.
Association of NKG2D gene variants with susceptibility and severity of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Mariaselvam C M , Tamouza R , Krishnamoorthy R , Charron D , Misra D P , Jain V K , Negi V S
Published: October 2016

NKG2D (KLRK1) is a C-type lectin receptor present on natural killer (NK) cells, γδ, CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. Upon ligand binding, NKG2D mediates activatory and co-stimulatory signals to NK cells and activated CD4+ T cells, respectively. Polymorphisms in NKG2D predispose to infectious diseases, cancer, transplantation and autoimmune disorders. We studied the influence of this NK receptor polymorphism on predisposition to and modification of the disease phenotype in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Eight different single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the NKG2 gene were genotyped in 236 patients with RA and 187 controls using Taqman 5' nuclease assays. NKG2D genotype/allele frequency did not differ between patients and controls. Subgroup analysis showed that the frequency of A allele of NKG2D9 and T allele of NKG2D10 was significantly higher in patients with deformities (a marker of severe disease) [11 versus 5%, Pc = 0·03, odds ratio (OR) = 2·44, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1·09-5·98 and 10 versus 4%, Pc = 0·04, OR = 2·45, 95% CI = 1·05-6·39, respectively], while the frequency of alleles G of NKG2D9 and A of NKG2D10 was greater in patients without deformities (Pc = 0·03, OR = 0·41, 95% CI = 0·17-0·91 and Pc = 0·04, OR = 0·41, 95% CI = 0·16-0·96). Similar trends of association were observed with deforming phenotype of RA in female patients and deforming young onset RA subgroups. Haplotype analysis revealed that the frequency of haplotype G-C-A-G-A-T-C-C was higher in patients than in controls (12 versus 8%, P = 0·04, OR = 1·61, 95% CI = 1·01-2·55), suggesting that it may predispose to RA. Our study suggests that the NKG2D gene polymorphisms may modify the risk of development and severity of RA.
Immediately Loaded Implants in Rehabilitation of the Maxilla: A Two‐Year Randomized Clinical Trial of Guided Surgery versus Standard Procedure
Authors: Amorfini Leonardo , Migliorati Marco , Drago Sara , Silvestrini‐Biavati Armando
Published: October 2016

Background

Implant‐simulation software can now be used to improve treatment planning, guide surgery, and ensure more accurate implant placement.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of a guided surgery protocol versus a conventional protocol.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐six patients were randomly assigned to Guided Surgery or Conventional Surgery. In test group implants were placed in the maxilla using a tooth supported model‐based surgical guide with a minimally invasive flap and immediately loaded. In control group implants were inserted with an open flap surgery following a prosthetic stent and immediately loaded.

Results

A total of 70 implants were placed (36 test and 34 control). Statistically significant differences were found between the test group and the control group for patient opinion about self‐confidence, assumption of analgesic tablets and perceived pain. The test group registered a statistically significant reduction (p < .05) as regards time of surgery and time of provisional insertion with respect to the control group.

Conclusions

Implants can successfully integrate in the posterior maxilla using a guided surgery approach with immediate loading. The use of guided surgery helped to reduce the surgery duration, pain intensity, related analgesic consumption, and a more predictable provisional installation.
Role of alpha‐ and beta‐adrenergic receptors in cardiomyocyte differentiation from murine‐induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Li Xiao‐Li , Zeng Di , Chen Yan , Ding Lu , Li Wen‐Ju , Wei Ting , Ou Dong‐Bo , Yan Song , Wang Bin , Zheng Qiang‐Sun
Published: October 2016

Objectives

Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)‐derived cardiomyocytes are a promising source of cells for regenerative heart disease therapies, but progress towards their use has been limited by their low differentiation efficiency and high cellular heterogeneity. Previous studies have demonstrated expression of adrenergic receptors (ARs) in stem cells after differentiation; however, roles of ARs in fate specification of stem cells, particularly in cardiomyocyte differentiation and development, have not been characterized.

Materials and methods

Murine‐induced pluripotent stem cells (miPSCs) were cultured in hanging drops to form embryoid bodies, cells of which were then differentiated into cardiomyocytes. To determine whether ARs regulated miPSC differentiation into cardiac lineages, effects of the AR agonist, epinephrine (EPI), on miPSC differentiation and underlying signalling mechanisms, were evaluated.

Results

Treatment with EPI, robustly enhanced miPSC cardiac differentiation, as indicated by increased expression levels of cardiac‐specific markers, GATA4, Nkx2.5 and Tnnt2. Although β‐AR signalling is the foremost signalling pathway in cardiomyocytes, EPI‐enhanced cardiac differentiation depended more on α‐AR signalling than β‐AR signalling. In addition, selective activation of α1‐AR signalling with specific agonists induced vigorous cardiomyocyte differentiation, whereas selective activation of α2‐ or β‐AR signalling induced no or less differentiation, respectively. EPI‐ and α1‐AR‐dependent cardiomyocyte differentiation from miPSCs occurred through specific promotion of CPC proliferation via the MEK‐ERK1/2 pathway and regulation of miPS cell‐cycle progression.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that activation of ARs, particularly of α1‐ARs, promoted miPSC differentiation into cardiac lineages via MEK‐ERK1/2 signalling.
Modelling the potential geographic distribution of an endangered pollination corridor in Mexico and the United States
Authors: Gómez‐Ruiz Emma P. , Lacher Thomas E.
Published: October 2016

Aim

Every spring endangered Mexican long‐nosed bats (Leptonycteris nivalis) migrate up to 1200 km from central Mexico to southern United States. Evidence suggests that L. nivalis follows the blooms of paniculate agave plants (genus Agave, subgenus Agave). Paniculate agave inflorescences are adapted to attract bats, and studies have indicated that Leptonycteris spp. played a key role in Agave speciation. We test the hypothesis of the Agave migratory corridor by (1) modelling the distribution of the relevant Agave species; and (2) testing whether bat records are significantly related to Agave species richness as predicted by our models.

Location

Mexico and United States.

Methods

We selected nine paniculate Agave species based on a set of criteria and modelled the current distribution of those species using maxent and the Genetic Algorithm for Rule‐set Production (GARP), and geographic information systems to analyse the spatial correspondence of Agave richness and presence of L. nivalis.

Results

We combined the Agave presence maps that resulted from the models with higher performance to create a richness map. This map indicated up to five species overlapping. L. nivalis occurrence areas correspond with areas with two, three and four Agave species more often than random expectations at the 0.05 significance level. The opposite is observed for areas with 0 Agave species where L. nivalis correspond less often than random.

Main conclusions

Presence–pseudo‐absence and presence–background modelling tools allowed us to map potential Agave presence. These maps could guide conservation actions to ensure the maintenance of this pollination corridor. Areas with higher number of Agave species are distributed along mountain chains and may provide foraging resources for L. nivalis for longer period of time during its migration. We recommend implementing a long‐term monitoring programme in those areas to document inflorescence timing in Agave species and the presence of L. nivalis.
Using the stable isotope marker 13C to study extrafloral nectar uptake by parasitoids under controlled conditions and in the field
Authors: Pollier Anna , Dosdat Simon , Tricault Yann , Bischoff Armin , Plantegenest Manuel , Jaloux Bruno
Published: October 2016

Parasitic wasps are prominent natural enemies of crop pests. They usually feed on floral resources during the adult stage (nectar, pollen, or honeydew). Extrafloral nectar is an alternative source of sugar easily accessible to adult parasitoids. We developed an original method of nectar labelling based on the injection of labelled sugar solution into the plant stem in order to analyse the nectar uptake by parasitoids (cotton wick method). This method was used to artificially enrich extrafloral cornflower, Centaurea cyanus L. (Asteraceae), nectar with the stable isotope 13C. We analysed (1) the transfer of 13C from the sugar solution into extrafloral nectaries, (2) the uptake of labelled nectar by parasitoids under laboratory conditions, and (3) the ability of the method to discriminate, in an oilseed rape (Brassica napus L., Brassicaceae) field, between labelled parasitoids (i.e., those who have fed on labelled cornflowers located adjacent to the field) and unlabelled parasitoids to track parasitoid movements from the margin into the field. The extrafloral nectar of all test plants was 13C‐labelled. Most (66%) of the parasitoids were identified as marked after 96 h of exposure to labelled plants in the laboratory. We could also detect labelled parasitoids inside the field, but the detection rate was only 1%. The experiments clearly demonstrate that the cotton wick method is appropriate to label extrafloral nectar and parasitoids feeding on this labelled nectar. Further research is needed on the amount of labelled extrafloral nectar required to obtain a sufficient marker level to track parasitoid movements in the field.
Within‐field spatial distribution patterns of corn planthopper, Peregrinus maidis, and severity of hopperburn and Maize mosaic virus symptoms as influenced by sunn hemp intercropping
Authors: Manandhar Roshan , Wright Mark G.
Published: October 2016

Habitat management (e.g., intercropping) may alter within‐field spatial distribution patterns of herbivores, from a typical pattern as observed in a monoculture, and may influence patterns of crop injury. Field trials were conducted to study the effect of intercropping maize, Zea mays L. (Poaceae), with sunn hemp, Crotalaria juncea L. (Fabaceae) strips on within‐field spatial distribution patterns of corn planthopper, Peregrinus maidis (Ashmead) (Hemiptera: Delphacidae), and combined severity of hopperburn and Maize mosaic virus (MMV) (Rhabdoviridae: Nucleorhabdovirus) symptoms. In each field trial, spatially explicit data on P. maidis counts and ratings of severity of symptoms were obtained by sampling maize plants at weekly intervals. These data were used to examine the spatial patterns of P. maidis and severity of symptoms in maize‐intercropped and monoculture plots with Spatial Analysis for Distance IndicEs (SADIE) methodology. Spatial aggregation patterns of P. maidis in each treatment plot were not consistent among the field trials and tended to be mediated by their population densities. Interpolation of local cluster indices showed that P. maidis were more often aggregated at the field edges, irrespective of treatment. At times of MMV incidence in field trials (fall 2010 and spring 2011), the patch clusters of P. maidis and symptomatic plants were located at the field edges, but were spatially unassociated in both treatment plots. The results provided an approximation of the unpredictability of P. maidis spatial patterns at different population densities and their association with severity of symptoms in two maize‐cropping systems. However, the gap clusters of symptomatic plants were primarily located at the field interiors and were larger in intercropped than in monoculture plots. Such spatial pattern of symptomatic plants resulted in the reduced incidence of MMV in the intercropped plot compared with the monoculture plot, suggesting intercropping sunn hemp can be a useful tool in the management of MMV in maize fields.
Effect of juvenile hormone and pyriproxyfen treatments on the production ofSpodoptera lituranuclear polyhedrosis virus
Authors: Liao Z.H. , Kuo T.C. , Shih C.W. , Tuan S.J. , Kao Y.H. , Huang R.N.
Published: October 2016

Efficient production is essential for developing baculoviruses into marketable bioinsecticides. In this study, we evaluated how juvenile hormone (JH)IIIand theJHanalog pyriproxyfen affected the production efficiency ofSpodoptera litura(Fabricius) (Lepidoptera:Noctuidae)Nucleopolyhedrovirus(SpltNPV) in SpltNPV‐inoculated early sixth instars. Both theJH IIIand pyriproxyfen treatments significantly enhanced the body size and weight ofS. litura, which resulted in a 1.5‐ to 2‐fold increase in the production of occlusion bodies (OBs). TheOBs obtained fromJH‐ and pyriproxyfen‐treated larvae were as pathogenic as those produced in untreated larvae. More importantly,JH‐ or pyriproxy‐fen‐treated larvae consumed less than twice the amount of food consumed by two untreated larvae. These results indicate thatJHand pyriproxyfen treatments improve the production efficiency of SpltNPVinS. litura. SpltNPVinfection affected the development ofS. lituranot only as larvae, but also during subsequent growth stages and generations.
Effects of entomopathogenic fungi on the mortality and immune system of the leaf‐cutting ant Acromyrmex subterraneus subterraneus
Authors: Couceiro Joel da Cruz , Marcelino Wesler Luiz , Amaral Karina Dias , Gandra Lailla Cristina , de Souza Danival José , Della Lucia Terezinha Maria Castro
Published: October 2016

Acromyrmex leaf‐cutting ants use the antibiotics produced by ectosymbionts (Actinobacteria) to suppress the growth of Escovopsis spp., which are the specialized parasites of attine fungus gardens. However, the spectrum of activity of these bacteria and their interactions with insect immune systems have not been thoroughly studied. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the presence of symbiotic actinobacteria covering the entire cuticle of Acromyrmex subterraneus subterraneus (Forel) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) workers provides protection against two fungus species, Metarhizium anisopliae (Metschn.) Sorokin (Hypocreales), a persistent entomopathogenic, and Aspergillus ochraceus G. Wilh. (Eurotiales), an opportunistic insect pathogen. We assessed the mortality rates of three groups of Ac. subterraneus subterraneus workers inoculated with a suspension of one of the two pathogens: external workers (EXT), internal workers with actinomycetes covering the whole body (INB), and internal workers without actinomycetes covering the whole body (INØ). We also assessed the encapsulation response, which is a parameter of innate immunity, to determine whether the pathogens affect immune responses in the ant. All bioassays were conducted on workers from seven laboratory colonies of Ac. subterraneus subterraneus. Mortality tests showed that actinomycetes do protect the workers of group INB against M. anisopliae, but not against A. ochraceus. Regarding the encapsulation response, INB ants treated with A. ochraceus conidia exhibited immunosuppression due to this pathogen. All three groups of workers that received M. anisopliae conidia presented some degree of immunosuppression after pathogen exposure. These results indicate that workers without visible bacteria cover, specially the external workers (EXT), are more resistant to entomopathogenic fungi. Nevertheless, bacterial actinomycetes present in young workers are important in protecting them from ubiquitous entomopathogenic fungi.
Female sex pheromone of a nettle caterpillar, Monema flavescens, in China
Authors: Yang Shu‐Zhen , Liu Hong‐Xia , Yang Mei‐Hong , Zhang Jin‐Tong , Li Zhan‐Wen , Jing Xiao‐Yuan , Zheng Hai‐Xia
Published: October 2016

Monema flavescens Walker (Lepidoptera: Limacodidae) is a multivoltine, generalist moth whose larvae cause serious damage to many types of trees. Pheromone lures prepared according to a study of a Japanese population were found to be ineffective at attracting M. flavescens nettle caterpillars in China, and some studies have shown intraspecific geographical differences in the composition of sex pheromones. We therefore reexamined the sex pheromone composition of M. flavescens in a Chinese population. In this study, the electroantennographically (EAG) active compounds in an extract from Chinese virgin females of M. flavescens were identified as (E)‐8‐decen‐1‐ol (E8‐10:OH), (Z)‐7,9‐decadien‐1‐ol (Z7,9‐10:OH), (Z)‐9,11‐dodecadien‐1‐ol (Z9,11‐12:OH), and (Z)‐9,11‐dodecadienal (Z9,11‐12:Ald) via coupled gas chromatographic‐electroantennographic detection (GC‐EAD) and coupled GC‐mass spectrometry (MS). Pheromone dimorphism might occur in this species, as this mixture of compounds in Chinese females was different from that of E8‐10:OH and E7,9‐10:OH extracted from Japanese females in previous research. In wind tunnel and field tests, the males were significantly attracted to a blend of the pheromone components E8‐10:OH, Z7,9‐10:OH, and Z9,11‐12:OH in a 100:5:4 ratio. The addition of Z9,11‐12:Ald did not change the male response. The optimized three‐component lure blend may provide a useful tool for monitoring and controlling Chinese populations of M. flavescens.