bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eliciting Willingness‐to‐Pay through Multiple Experimental Procedures: Evidence from Lab‐in‐the‐Field in Rural Ghana
Authors: Banerji A. , Chowdhury Shyamal , De Groote Hugo , Meenakshi J. V. , Haleegoah Joyce , Ewool Manfred
Published: August 2017

This paper has the objectives of (a) comparing estimated willingness‐to‐pay (WTP) across three elicitation mechanisms (a Becker‐DeGroot‐Marschak [BDM] auction, a kth price auction, and a choice experiment [CE]) and (b) examining how these vary by participation fee. The product under consideration is kenkey made with nutritious maize, biofortified with vitamin A, which gives it a distinct orange color, in contrast to the white and yellow varieties that are traditionally consumed. We use an experiment consisting of 14 treatment arms, conducted in rural Ghana. Our estimation strategy explicitly accounts for the censored (typically at the market price) nature of the bids in the auctions, and the apparently lexicographic choices of several individuals in the CE. We find no evidence of economically meaningful (defined by the minimum currency unit of five pesewas) differences in WTP (although they may be statistically significant) across elicitation mechanisms, or by participation fee, a result that is in contrast to that found in much of the literature. A secondary finding is that the provision of nutrition information positively and significantly affects the marginal WTP for the new maize.
Untangling the proximate causes and underlying drivers of deforestation and forest degradation in Myanmar
Authors: Lim Cheng Ling , Prescott Graham W. , De Alban Jose Don T. , Ziegler Alan D. , Webb Edward L.
Published: August 2017

Political transitions often trigger substantial environmental changes. In particular, deforestation can result from the complex interplay among the components of a system—actors, institutions, and existing policies—adapting to new opportunities. A dynamic conceptual map of system components is particularly useful for systems in which multiple actors, each with different worldviews and motivations, may be simultaneously trying to alter different facets of the system, unaware of the impacts on other components. In Myanmar, a global biodiversity hotspot with the largest forest area in mainland Southeast Asia, ongoing political and economic reforms are likely to change the dynamics of deforestation drivers. A fundamental conceptual map of these dynamics is therefore a prerequisite for interventions to reduce deforestation. We used a system‐dynamics approach and causal‐network analysis to determine the proximate causes and underlying drivers of forest loss and degradation in Myanmar from 1995 to 2016 and to articulate the linkages among them. Proximate causes included infrastructure development, timber extraction, and agricultural expansion. These were stimulated primarily by formal agricultural, logging, mining, and hydropower concessions and economic investment and social issues relating to civil war and land tenure. Reform of land laws, the link between natural resource extraction and civil war, and the allocation of agricultural concessions will influence the extent of future forest loss and degradation in Myanmar. The causal‐network analysis identified priority areas for policy interventions, for example, creating a public registry of land‐concession holders to deter corruption in concession allocation. We recommend application of this analytical approach to other countries, particularly those undergoing political transition, to inform policy interventions to reduce forest loss and degradation.
Practitioner and scientist perceptions of successful amphibian conservation
Authors: Meredith Helen M.R. , St. John Freya A.V. , Collen Ben , Black Simon A. , Griffiths Richard A.
Published: August 2017

Conservation requires successful outcomes. However, success is perceived in many different ways depending on the desired outcome. Through a questionnaire survey, we examined perceptions of success among 355 scientists and practitioners working on amphibian conservation from over 150 organizations in more than 50 countries. We also sought to identify how different types of conservation actions and respondent experience and background influenced perceptions. Respondents identified 4 types of success: species and habitat improvements (84% of respondents); effective program management (36%); outreach initiatives such as education and public engagement (25%); and the application of science‐based conservation (15%). The most significant factor influencing overall perceived success was reducing threats. Capacity building was rated least important. Perceptions were influenced by experience, professional affiliation, involvement in conservation practice, and country of residence. More experienced practitioners associated success with improvements to species and habitats and less so with education and engagement initiatives. Although science‐based conservation was rated as important, this factor declined in importance as the number of programs a respondent participated in increased, particularly among those from less economically developed countries. The ultimate measure of conservation success—population recovery—may be difficult to measure in many amphibians; difficult to relate to the conservation actions intended to drive it; and difficult to achieve within conventional funding time frames. The relaunched Amphibian Conservation Action Plan provides a framework for capturing lower level processes and outcomes, identifying gaps, and measuring progress.
SUBSIDIZING ALTRUISM IN LIVING ORGAN DONATION
Authors: Schnier Kurt E. , Merion Robert M. , Turgeon Nicole , Howard David
Published: August 2017

The current supply of deceased donor organs is insufficient to meet the growing demand for transplantable organs. Consequently, candidates for kidney transplantation are encouraged to find a living donor. In 2008, the Department of Health and Human Services began to reimburse donors' travel‐related expenses via the National Living Donor Assistance Center (NLDAC). Using variation in transplant centers' applications for donor assistance, we use a difference‐in‐difference model to estimate the relationship between the NLDAC and living donor kidney transplants. We find that among participating transplant centers, the program increased the number of living donor kidney transplants by approximately 14%. (JEL I12, I18, D64)
Effects of elevated CO2 on life‐history traits of three successive generations of Frankliniella occidentalis and F. intonsa on kidney bean, Phaseolus vulgaris
Authors: Qian Lei , Chen Fajun , Liu Jiani , He Shuqi , Liu Jianye , Li Zhengyue , Gui Furong
Published: August 2017

The objective of this study was to determine how elevated CO2 impacts on life‐history traits and life table parameters in three successive generations of invasive species Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) and its related native species, Frankliniella intonsa (Pergande), fed with kidney bean leaves grown in ambient CO2. The oviposition period, sex ratio, net reproductive rate (R0), intrinsic rate of increase (rm), and finite rate of increase (λ) of F. occidentalis increased in elevated CO2, and larval duration, survival rate, mean generation time (T), and population doubling time (DT) decreased. For F. intonsa, larval duration, survival rate, oviposition period, longevity of female adults, R0, rm, and λ decreased in elevated CO2, whereas sex ratio, T, and DT increased. These results indicated that the effects of elevated CO2 would be beneficial to F. occidentalis, whereas it would be detrimental to F. intonsa. However, the effects of elevated CO2 on F. occidentalis and F. intonsa differed over generations. In elevated CO2, larval duration, survival rate, oviposition period, sex ratio, rm, and λ of F. occidentalis increased linearly through successive generations, whereas T and DT decreased linearly, which suggested that the effects of elevated CO2 on F. occidentalis would be slowly accentuated over time. For F. intonsa, larval duration, survival rate, oviposition period, rm, and λ decreased linearly over generations, whereas sex ratio, T, and DT increased linearly. This indicated that the effects of elevated CO2 on F. intonsa would slowly accentuate over time. We conclude that F. occidentalis would be more adapted to elevated CO2 than F. intonsa.
Neural correlates of food anticipatory activity in mice subjected to once‐ or twice‐daily feeding periods
Authors: Rastogi Ashutosh , Mintz Eric M.
Published: August 2017

In rodents, restricted food access to a limited period each day at a predictable time results in the appearance of food anticipatory activity (FAA). Two shorter periods of food access each day can result in two FAA bouts. In this study, we examine FAA under 12:12 and 18:6 photoperiods in mice (Mus musculus) with one or two food access periods per day and measure the activation of the suprachiasmatic, dorsomedial and arcuate nuclei by assaying Fos protein expression, while making use of tissue‐type plasminogen activator knockout mice to assess the role of neural plasticity in adaptation to restricted feeding cycles. Long days were utilised to allow for temporal separation of two restricted feeding periods during the light phase. Mice fed twice per day generally divided FAA into two distinct bouts, with mice lacking tissue‐type plasminogen activator showing reduced FAA. Increases in Fos expression in response to one restricted feeding period per day were seen in the dorsomedial and arcuate nuclei in both 12:12 and 18:6 conditions, with an increase seen in the SCN in only the 12:12 condition. These increases were eliminated or reduced in the two feeding time conditions (done in 18:6 only). Both activity patterns and Fos expression differed for single restricted feeding times between 18:6 and 12:12 photoperiods. Fos activation was lower during RF in 18:6 than 12:12 across all three brain regions, a pattern not reflective of changes in FAA. These data suggest that involvement of these regions in FAA may be influenced by photoperiodic context.
Strong long‐range temporal correlations of beta/gamma oscillations are associated with poor sustained visual attention performance
Authors: Irrmischer Mona , Poil Simon‐Shlomo , Mansvelder Huibert D. , Intra Francesca Sangiuliano , Linkenkaer‐Hansen Klaus
Published: August 2017

Neuronal oscillations exhibit complex amplitude fluctuations with autocorrelations that persist over thousands of oscillatory cycles. Such long‐range temporal correlations (LRTC) are thought to reflect neuronal systems poised near a critical state, which would render them capable of quick reorganization and responsive to changing processing demands. When we concentrate, however, the influence of internal and external sources of distraction is better reduced, suggesting that neuronal systems involved with sustained attention could benefit from a shift toward the less volatile sub‐critical state. To test these ideas, we recorded electroencephalography (EEG) from healthy volunteers during eyes‐closed rest and during a sustained attention task requiring a speeded response to images deviating in their presentation duration. We show that for oscillations recorded during rest, high levels of alpha‐bandLRTCin the sensorimotor region predicted good reaction‐time performance in the attention task. During task execution, however, fast reaction times were associated with high‐amplitude beta and gamma oscillations with lowLRTC. Finally, we show that reducedLRTCduring the attention task compared to the rest condition correlates with better performance, while increasedLRTCof oscillations from rest to attention is associated with reduced performance. To our knowledge, this is the first empirical evidence that ‘resting‐state criticality’ of neuronal networks predicts swift behavioral responses in a sensorimotor task, and that steady attentive processing of visual stimuli requires brain dynamics with suppressed temporal complexity.
Self‐perceived mouthfeel and physico‐chemical surface effects after chewing gums containing sorbitol and Magnolia bark extract
Authors: Wessel Stefan W. , van der Mei Henny C. , Slomp Anje M. , van de Belt‐Gritter Betsy , Dodds Michael W. J. , Busscher Henk J.
Published: August 2017

The European Food Safety Authority recognizes the contribution of sugar‐free chewing gum to oral health through increased salivation, clearance of food debris, and neutralization of biofilm pH. Magnolia bark extract is a gum additive shown to reduce the prevalence of bad‐breath bacteria but its effects on self‐perceived mouthfeel are unknown. This paper aims to relate the effects of sorbitol‐containing chewing gum, with and without Magnolia bark extract, on tooth‐surface hydrophobicity and salivary‐film composition with self‐perceived mouthfeel. In a crossover clinical trial, volunteers chewed sorbitol‐containing gum, with or without Magnolia bark extract added, three times daily during a 4‐wk time period. A subset of volunteers also chewed Parafilm as a mastication control. Oral moistness and tooth smoothness were assessed using questionnaires, and intra‐oral water‐contact angles were measured before, immediately after, and 60 min after, chewing. Simultaneously, saliva samples were collected, placed on glass slides, and the compositions of the adsorbed film were measured using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Chewing of gum, regardless of whether or not it contained Magnolia bark extract, improved self‐perceived mouthfeel up to 60 min, concurrent with a more hydrophilic tooth surface and an increased amount of O1s electrons bound at 532.6 eV in salivary films. Chewing of Parafilm affected neither tooth‐surface hydrophobicity nor salivary‐film composition. Accordingly, adsorption of sorbitol, rather than the presence of Magnolia bark extract or increased salivation, is responsible for improved self‐perceived mouthfeel.
CD11b‐deficient mice exhibit an increased severity in the late phase of antibody transfer‐induced experimental epidermolysis bullosa acquisita
Authors: Deng Fengyuan , Chen Yan , Zheng Junfeng , Huang Qiaoniang , Cao Xuetao , Zillikens Detlef , Petersen Frank , Yu Xinhua
Published: August 2017

CD11b, the α‐chain of β2 integrin Mac‐1, is involved in many activation processes of phagocytes. Depending on the respective autoimmune disorder, CD11b has been shown to exert pro‐inflammatory functions or be dispensable in their pathogenesis. Here, we investigated the role of CD11b in the pathogenesis of experimental epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA), an autoimmune skin blistering disease mediated by autoantibodies to type VII collagen. Unexpectedly, in an antibody transfer‐induced model of EBA, CD11b‐deficient mice developed more severe disease symptoms than wild‐type mice in the late phase of the disease. Furthermore, as compared to wild‐type controls, CD11b‐deficient mice expressed increased levels of circulating IFN‐γ and IL‐4. Taken together, for the first time, our results suggest an anti‐inflammatory role for CD11b in experimental autoimmune diseases.
Handelsblatt Ranking and Journal Quality: A Cautionary Note
Authors: Önder Ali Sina
Published: August 2017

I provide a brief discussion of the Handelsblatt ranking by focusing on its journal quality weights. I summarize the methodology underlying journals’ prestige measure, which is derived from their citation networks, and discuss its strengths and shortcomings. Although I agree that Handelsblatt ranking provides a great service to the profession, that same profession needs to be rather careful not to overemphasize the journal quality weights.
Association between potentially inappropriate medications and anxiety in Japanese older patients
Authors: Masumoto Shoichi , Sato Mikiya , Maeno Takami , Ichinohe Yumiko , Maeno Tetsuhiro
Published: August 2017

Aim

The use of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) for older patients is a major public health problem. However, there is little information regarding PIMs in Japanese primary care settings, and the association between psychological problems and PIMs is unknown. The present study was carried out to explore the prevalence of PIMs among older patients in a primary care setting in Tokyo, and to assess the association between PIMs and depression and anxiety.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study in a Japanese outpatient clinic providing primary care was carried out. Data were collected from January 2016 to March 2016. A total of 740 patients aged ≥65 years with chronic diseases were enrolled. Information regarding sociodemographic status, comorbidities, and prescription and psychological status was collected using a questionnaire that patients were required to complete, and by reviewing the patients’ medical records.

Results

The Screening Tool of Older Person's Prescriptions criteria version 2 revealed PIM prescription for 32.3% of patients. Benzodiazepines, hypnotic Z‐drugs and proton pump inhibitors accounted for a majority of PIMs. After adjusting for age, sex, comorbidities, estimated glomerular filtration rate and the number of medications, anxiety was identified as a predictor for PIMs.

Conclusions

PIMs among older patients are common in Japanese primary care settings, and prescription of benzodiazepines or hypnotic Z‐drugs and proton pump inhibitors was frequent as PIMs. PIMs might be associated with anxiety; therefore, their association should be focused on and addressed to reduce PIMs. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 2520–2526.
Nutritional supplementation for activities of daily living and functional ability of older people in residential facilities: A systematic review
Authors: Tsuboi Marika , Momosaki Ryo , Vakili Mahdis , Abo Masahiro
Published: August 2017

Aim

To review the best available evidence on nutritional supplementation for activities of daily living and functional ability of older people in residential facilities.

Methods

Electronic searches were carried out using CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EMBASE databases for the years 2006–2016. Randomized controlled trials and cluster‐randomized controlled trials that examined the effects of nutrition interventions aimed at improving the energy or protein intake alone or both in combination were included. Two authors independently reviewed all potential studies for inclusion against the eligibility criteria. We reviewed studies for outcome relevance and methodological rigor. Any disagreement was resolved by discussion.

Results

A total of eight studies were included, containing four randomized controlled trials and four cluster‐randomized controlled trials involving 698 participants. There was significant improvement in handgrip strength (mean difference 1.65 kg, 95% confidence interval 0.09–3.22 kg, P = 0.04), but no difference in activities of daily living (mean difference 2.06, 95% confidence interval −18.28–22.40, P = 0.84), balance (mean difference −1.10, 95% confidence interval −3.04–0.84, P = 0.27), gait velocity (mean difference 0.00, 95% confidence interval −0.03–0.03, P = 1.00) and death (RR 1.90, 95% confidence interval 0.61–5.99, P = 0.27).

Conclusions

Nutritional intervention with older people in residential facilities was effective in improving handgrip strength, but did not significantly improve scores for activities of daily living, balance, gait velocity or preventing death. Further studies with larger sample sizes and of high quality are required to investigate appropriate intervention methods and specific target participants. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 197–210.
Clinical characteristics of stroke occurring in the toilet: Are older adults more vulnerable?
Authors: Inamasu Joji , Tomiyasu Kazuhiro , Miyatake Satoru , Mayanagi Keita , Yoshii Masami , Nakatsukasa Masashi
Published: August 2017

Aim

While autonomic imbalance during defecation/micturition can cause hemodynamic instability, stroke occurring in the toilet has rarely been investigated. The objective of the present study was to clarify the frequency and clinical characteristics of toilet‐related stroke.

Methods

Clinical data prospectively acquired between January 2011 and December 2015 on 1939 patients with acute stroke (1224 cerebral infarctions [CI], 505 intracerebral hemorrhages [ICH] and 210 subarachnoid hemorrhages [SAH]) were reviewed to identify patients with a toilet‐related stroke. For each stroke type, the ratios of stroke occurring during defecation/micturition to those occurring during other activities were calculated. Subsequently, how patients with toilet‐related stroke were brought to medical attention was investigated. Whether older patients (aged >65 years) had an elevated ratio of toilet‐related stroke was investigated in each stroke type.

Results

A total of 108 patients (41 CI, 37 ICH and 30 subarachnoid hemorrhages) sustained a stroke in the toilet. The ratio of toilet‐related stroke was highest in subarachnoid hemorrhages (14.3%), followed by ICH (7.3%). Circadian differences existed among the three stroke types: toilet‐related CI were more likely to occur in the night‐time than ICH. Patients with toilet‐related CI were significantly more likely to sustain cardioembolic stroke. In all three stroke types, <40% of patients could call for help by themselves. Older patients showed a significantly higher proportion of toilet‐related stroke in CI, but not in hemorrhagic strokes.

Conclusions

The toilet is a closed space where stroke occurs disproportionately frequently. Effort to reduce the incidence of toilet‐related strokes is warranted, as early patient detection is not always feasible. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 250–255.
Headache Professional Societies: Ethical Challenges and Suggested Solutions
Authors: Borsook David , Bernat James L.
Published: August 2017

Codes of professional conduct continue to be an essential component of maintaining the integrity of individuals, academic institutions, and medical societies. We review ethical issues of professional conduct focusing on conflicts of interest (COI). We explain how to manage or mitigate COI in the context of professionals involved in headache medicine and its medical specialty societies. We identify the roles of institutional, medical society, and governmental regulation in the protection of patients and maintaining the integrity of physicians and others involved in patient care.
Pathological factors and prognosis of resected liver metastases of colorectal carcinoma: implications and proposal for a pathological reporting protocol
Authors: Fonseca Gilton M , Herman Paulo , Faraj Sheila F , Kruger Jaime A P , Coelho Fabricio F , Jeismann Vagner B , Cecconello Ivan , Alves Venancio A F , Pawlik Timothy M , de Mello Evandro S
Published: August 2017

Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. The liver is the most common site of distant metastases, and surgery is the only potentially curative treatment, although the recurrence rate following surgery is high. In order to define prognosis after surgery, many histopathological features have been identified in the primary tumour. In turn, pathologists routinely report specific findings to guide oncologists on the decision to recommend adjuvant therapy. In general, the pathological report of resected colorectal liver metastases is limited to confirmation of the malignancy and details regarding the margin status. Most pathological reports of a liver resection for colorectal liver metastasis lack information on other important features that have been reported to be independent prognostic factors. We herein review the evidence to support a more detailed pathological report of the resected liver specimen, with attention to: the number and size of liver metastases; margin size; the presence of lymphatic, vascular, perineural and biliary invasion; mucinous pattern; tumour growth pattern; the presence of a tumour pseudocapsule; and the pathological response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. In addition, we propose a new protocol for the evaluation of colorectal liver metastasis resection specimens.
Histopathology of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronovirus (MERS‐CoV) infection – clinicopathological and ultrastructural study
Authors: Alsaad Khaled O , Hajeer Ali H , Al Balwi Mohammed , Al Moaiqel Mohammed , Al Oudah Nourah , Al Ajlan Abdulaziz , AlJohani Sameera , Alsolamy Sami , Gmati Giamal E , Balkhy Hanan , Al‐Jahdali Hamdan H , Baharoon Salim A , Arabi Yaseen M
Published: August 2017

Aims

The pathogenesis, viral localization and histopathological features of Middle East respiratory syndrome – coronavirus (MERS‐CoV) in humans are not described sufficiently. The aims of this study were to explore and define the spectrum of histological and ultrastructural pathological changes affecting various organs in a patient with MERS‐CoV infection and represent a base of MERS‐CoV histopathology.

Methods and results

We analysed the post‐mortem histopathological findings and investigated localisation of viral particles in the pulmonary and extrapulmonary tissue by transmission electron microscopic examination in a 33‐year‐old male patient of T cell lymphoma, who acquired MERS‐CoV infection. Tissue needle biopsies were obtained from brain, heart, lung, liver, kidney and skeletal muscle. All samples were collected within 45 min from death to reduce tissue decomposition and artefact. Histopathological examination showed necrotising pneumonia, pulmonary diffuse alveolar damage, acute kidney injury, portal and lobular hepatitis and myositis with muscle atrophic changes. The brain and heart were histologically unremarkable. Ultrastructurally, viral particles were localised in the pneumocytes, pulmonary macrophages, renal proximal tubular epithelial cells and macrophages infiltrating the skeletal muscles.

Conclusion

The results highlight the pulmonary and extrapulmonary pathological changes of MERS‐CoV infection and provide the first evidence of the viral presence in human renal tissue, which suggests tissue trophism for MERS‐CoV in kidney.
M2 macrophages coexist with a Th1‐driven profile in periapical cysts
Authors: Ribeiro C. M. , de Carli M. L. , Nonogaki S. , Nogueira D. A. , Pereira A. A. C. , Sperandio F. F. , Hanemann J. A. C.
Published: August 2017

Aim

To evaluate the participation of both Th1 and Th2 responses in periapical cysts by assessing the presence of M2 macrophages, as well as acute IL‐1 β, TNF‐α and IL‐6 cytokines.

Methodology

Twenty‐four cases of periapical cysts were selected. Immuno‐expressions of IL‐1 β, IL‐6, TNF‐α and CD163 were analysed in the cystic capsules in both superficial and deeper regions. Data were analysed with paired Wilcoxon test and Spearman correlation coefficient (P ≤ 0.05).

Results

There was a higher expression of IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α and M2 macrophages in the superficial region (P < 0.001) of cystic capsules. All acute cytokines had significant positive correlations amongst them regardless of the cystic capsule region. Regarding CD163, positive correlations occurred only with TNF‐α (P = 0.007; r = 0.537) and IL‐6 (P = 0.018; r = 0.478) in the superficial regions of the cystic capsule.

Conclusions

M2 macrophages participated actively in the inflammatory response of periapical cysts and correlated with the expression of certain acute Th1‐related cytokines. This illustrates the coexistence of an acute and chronic Th2‐driven immune response in these lesions. Although M2 macrophages favour the healing process, their presence is not sufficient for periapical cyst regression, once an acute active response has occurred due to an infectious stimuli.
Assessment of alternative emergency treatments for symptomatic irreversible pulpitis: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Eren B. , Onay E. O. , Ungor M.
Published: August 2017

Aim

To evaluate three emergency procedures for their ability to alleviate clinical symptoms associated with symptomatic teeth having signs of (at least) partial irreversible pulpitis.

Methodology

Sixty‐six maxillary and mandibular molars were randomly assigned to a total pulpectomy group (TP; n = 22), partial pulpectomy group (PP; n = 22) or pulpotomy group (P; n = 22). Procedure durations were recorded. Patients answered a questionnaire on daily analgesic requirements and about clinical symptoms (pain intensity, chewing sensitivity and thermal sensitivity) after the anaesthetic effect had disappeared (Day 0) and on Days 1, 3 and 7 post‐treatment.

Results

The total pulpectomy group was associated with the longest procedures (median, 24 min), followed by the partial pulpectomy and pulpotomy groups (P < 0.001 for all). In all three groups, pain intensity, thermal sensitivity and chewing sensitivity decreased significantly from the preoperative time‐point to Day 7 (P < 0.001 for all). The total pulpectomy group reported greater reductions in pain intensity than the pulpotomy group between Days 0 and 7, Days 1 and 3, and Days 1 and 7 (P < 0.001 for all). No other intergroup differences were noted regarding reductions in pain intensity, and none were observed with respect to changes in prevalence of thermal sensitivity and chewing sensitivity. There were also no significant intergroup differences regarding the analgesic requirements throughout the 7 days.

Conclusion

As emergency treatments for teeth having signs of irreversible pulpitis, pulpotomy, partial pulpectomy and total pulpectomy were comparable with respect to relieving clinical symptoms. Pulpotomy may be preferred because it requires significantly less time and is a simple technique that relieves symptoms quickly and effectively.
MARKUPS AND THE REAL EFFECTS OF VOLATILITY SHOCKS
Authors: Seoane Hernán D.
Published: August 2017

This article studies the role of endogenous markups in the transmission of volatility shocks in real models. I design a variant of a small open economy model with volatility shocks and firm dynamics that gives rise to endogenous markups. I calibrate this model to match the business cycle facts in emerging economies and show that the impact of volatility shocks is substantially amplified if markups are endogenously time varying. Volatility shocks increase savings, due to precautionary motives, and markups, which act as a wedge that endogenously decreases real wages and labor supply with further negative aggregate dynamics that are absent in the models with constant markups.
A NONPARAMETRIC TEST FOR COMPARING VALUATION DISTRIBUTIONS IN FIRST‐PRICE AUCTIONS
Authors: Liu Nianqing , Luo Yao
Published: August 2017

This article proposes a nonparametric test for comparing valuation distributions in first‐price auctions. Our test is motivated by the fact that two valuation distributions are the same if and only if their integrated quantile functions are the same. Our method avoids estimating unobserved valuations and does not require smooth estimation of bid density. We show that our test is consistent against all fixed alternatives and has nontrivial power against root‐N local alternatives. Monte Carlo experiments show that our test performs well in finite samples. We implement our method on data from U.S. Forest Service timber auctions.
BUSINESS CYCLES IN SMALL OPEN ECONOMIES: EVIDENCE FROM PANEL DATA BETWEEN 1900 AND 2013
Authors: Miyamoto Wataru , Nguyen Thuy Lan
Published: August 2017

Using a novel data set for 17 countries between 1900 and 2013, we characterize business cycles in both small developed and developing countries in a model with financial frictions and a common shock structure. We estimate the model jointly for these 17 countries using Bayesian methods. We find that financial frictions are an important feature for not only developing but also small developed countries. Furthermore, business cycles in both groups of countries are marked with trend productivity shocks. Common disturbances explain one third of the fluctuations in small open economies, especially during important worldwide phenomena.
Translation and validation of translation in cross‐cultural research: Strategies used in a study of cervical cancer screening among ethnic minorities
Authors: Chan Dorothy N.S. , So Winnie K.W.
Published: August 2017

Aims

A discussion of the challenges encountered during instrument translation and validation while researching cervical cancer screening among ethnic minorities and the strategies used to overcome them.

Background

Given the increasing ethnic and cultural diversity of populations in different countries, culturally sensitive instruments are needed to evaluate people's attitudes, perceptions, and health practices. Often, such instruments are lacking in the study population's language.

Design

Discussion paper.

Data sources

The discussion is based on our previous experience including the challenges encountered in the translation process and in the semantic and content validation and the strategies used to overcome them.

Implication for nursing

Seeking help from community centres or translation agencies to use translators with a health care background and of the same cultural origins as the target participants is effective. Actively contacting potential experts through email addresses obtained from published research articles is another effective way to find suitable experts. Field testing of the study questionnaire is important in validation, as it uncovers difficulties that go beyond translation.

Conclusion

Good planning and preparation before the translation and validation work begins is always required. Working closely with translators and experts through discussion is the key to success.
Surgical and pharmacological reassignment: influence on transsexual cardiovascular risk profile
Authors: Ciccone Marco M. , Loverro Giuseppe , Scicchitano Pietro , Loverro Matteo , Ricci Gabriella , Scaramuzzi Francesca , Gesualdo Michele , Zito Annapaola , Campagna Marcello , Moncelli Michele , Nicolardi Vittorio , Manca Fabio , Boninfante Barbara , Carbonara Santa , Cortese Francesca , Todarello Orlando , Bettocchi Carlo
Published: August 2017

Background/Aim

To evaluate and stratify early cardiovascular risk of transsexuals who underwent pharmacological and/or surgical gender reassignment.

Methods

Fifty‐six transsexuals were divided into two groups: group 1 – underwent gonadectomy (orchiectomy for transwomen and hystero‐annessiectomy for transmen); group 2 – hormone replacement therapy alone. All participants underwent carotid artery intima‐media thickness (C‐IMT) and flow‐mediated vasodilation (FMD) of brachial artery evaluations.

Results

FMD was lower in patients who had undergone gonadectomy compared with non‐surgically treated patients (Group 1: 5.711 vs Group 2: 7.339, P < 0.0001). Mean C‐IMT was higher in group 1 than group 2 (group 1: 0.733 vs group 2: 0.582). The duration of hormone therapy correlates positively with mean C‐IMT (B = 0.001) and negatively with FMD (%) (B = − 0.007).

Conclusions

Cardiovascular risk, which is expressed in terms of endothelial (FMD) and morphological (C‐IMT) dysfunction, increases in subjects undergoing gonadectomy compared with those receiving cross‐sex reassignment therapy alone.
The monetary policy origins of the eurozone crisis
Authors: Beckworth David
Published: August 2017

The eurozone crisis represents one of the greatest economic tragedies of the past century. It has caused immense human suffering, which continues to this day. The standard view attributes the economic crisis to an earlier buildup of public and private debt that was augmented by the imposition of austerity during the crisis. Although evidence exists of a relationship between the debt buildup, austerity measures, and economic growth during the crisis, that same evidence, on closer examination, points to eurozone countries’ common monetary policy as the real culprit behind the area's sharp decline in economic activity. In particular, it seems that the European Central Bank's tightening of monetary policy in 2008 and again in 2010–2011 not only caused two recessions but also sparked the sovereign debt crisis and gave teeth to the austerity programs. Such findings point to the need for a new monetary policy regime in the eurozone. The case is made for the new regime to be a targeted growth path for total money spending.
Macroeconomic effectiveness of non‐standard monetary policy and early exit. A model‐based evaluation
Authors: Burlon Lorenzo , Gerali Andrea , Notarpietro Alessandro , Pisani Massimiliano
Published: August 2017

This paper evaluates the macroeconomic effects of the Eurosystem's expanded asset purchase programme (APP) under alternative assumptions about (i) unwinding the asset positions accumulated under the APP and (ii) current and future paths of the policy rate (forward guidance). To this purpose, we simulate a New Keynesian model of the euro area (EA). Our results are as follows. First, if the monetary authority brings forward the unwinding of its long‐term sovereign bond holdings, the stimulus from the APP on inflation and economic activity is correspondingly reduced. Second, if the monetary authority communicates that the policy rate will be held constant for 1 year instead of 2, the APP would be less effective and the increase in inflation would be halved. Third, an early exit from bond holding subdues the impact of the APP, delaying the normalization of monetary policy conditions after a negative EA‐wide demand shock.
Males in seemingly female‐like plumage do not mimic females: UV reflectance reveals temporal cryptic dimorphism in a manakin species exhibiting delayed plumage maturation
Authors: Morales-Betancourt Juan Alejandro , Castaño-Villa Gabriel J.
Published: August 2017

Manakins (Pipridae) are neotropical birds that usually exhibit delayed plumage maturation (DPM). Thus, while plumage of most adult male manakins is brightly conspicuous, subadult males and females are basically dull‐olive green. Although sexual dichromatism in some bird species may be evident only through UV reflectance, this phenomenon, known as hidden sexual dichromatism, has not been previously studied in manakins to compare subadult males and females. Within this framework, we carried out spectrophotometric analyses in searching for hidden sexual dichromatism in the white‐bearded manakin Manacus manacus, through comparison of UV spectra in females and subadult males in green plumage. Our results revealed UV reflectance in both sexes in green plumage. Moreover, we found UV spectral differences in homologous color patches between sexes, particularly at belly. Since the observed differences may allow intraspecific sex recognition of individuals in green plumage, our results do not support the female‐mimicry hypothesis to explain delayed plumage maturation in the white‐bearded manakin. Although our findings dismiss the female mimicry hypothesis, we cannot state whether these results support the non‐mutually exclusive cryptic and status signaling hypotheses. We propose then, that dull coloration of subadult males may serve both as a cryptic trait and to limit the energetic costs of acquiring the adult plumage before sexual maturity. Meanwhile, differential UV color traits between sexes in green plumage may allow adult males to avoid unnecessary energy expenditures in courtship displays in the presence of males near leks, and to selectively focus their the courtship displays on females. In accordance with the status signaling hypothesis, subadult males can be recognized both as males and subordinates and consequently may practice courtship displays without suffering aggressions by adult males. Our results highlight the importance to include a wider range of spectrophotometric information analyses for testing hypotheses regarding delayed plumage maturation.
Cost‐of‐illness of psoriasis – results of a German cross‐sectional study
Authors: Jungen D. , Augustin M. , Langenbruch A. , Zander N. , Reich K. , Strömer K. , Thaci D. , Purwins S. , Radtke M. , Gutknecht M.
Published: August 2017

Background

Though psoriasis poses a substantial chronic socio‐economic burden, few studies have addressed the economic impact in Germany.

Objectives

The objective was to evaluate the annual costs of psoriasis in Germany from the societal perspective.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed in randomly selected German dermatology practices and clinics in 2013/2014 using standardized questionnaires of illness‐related costs. Costs were grouped by perspective and category as well as analysed by sex and age. Group differences were tested by non‐parametric tests.

Results

Complete data were obtained from 1158 patients in 132 centres. Annual average costs for patients with psoriasis: total costs € 5543 ± € 8044, systemic treatment costs (paid by the statutory health insurances [SHI]) € 3733 ± € 7322, out‐of‐pocket costs € 224 ± € 406, total SHI costs € 4940 ± € 7533, direct costs € 5164 ± € 7581 and indirect costs € 379 ± € 2087. Significant higher costs in male and significant lower costs in 65+‐year‐old patients were found.

Conclusions

Psoriasis induces a considerable economic burden. Between 2003 and 2014, costs have markedly shifted from hospital, out‐of‐pocket and indirect costs towards systemic drug costs.
Optical coherence tomography for the investigation of frontal fibrosing alopecia
Authors: Vazquez‐Herrera N.E. , Eber A.E. , Martinez‐Velasco M.A. , Perper M. , Cervantes J. , Verne S.H. , Magno R.J. , Nouri K. , Tosti A.
Published: August 2017

Background

Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) is a cicatricial alopecia that affects the frontotemporal hairline, eyebrows and body hair. OCT is a non‐invasive imaging technique useful in understanding skin architecture and vascularization.

Objective

To describe structural and vascular findings in FFA using OCT.

Methods

This was a case–control study conducted from the months of December 2016–February 2017. The study was IRB approved and conducted at the University of Miami Hospital outpatient dermatology hair and nail clinic in Miami, FL. Four patients with biopsy proven FFA, and three healthy age and sex‐matched controls participated. OCT scans were taken on cicatricial alopecic band, inflammatory hairline, eyebrow, uninvolved scalp, facial papules, glabellar red dots and arm. The same body regions were evaluated in controls.

Results

Patients and controls were women aged 42–66. Results reveal epidermal thickness is increased in the inflammatory hairline (0.13 mm) and decreased in the alopecic band (0.08 mm) compared to controls (0.10 mm). Attenuation coefficient increased the inflammatory hairline and decreased in the alopecic band compared to controls. Vascular flow in the alopecic band is decreased compared to inflammatory scalp and controls in the superficial levels, but increased at deeper levels as compared to controls. Inflammatory tissue is consistently more vascular at all levels (P < 0.01). Vascular flows in each stage are significantly different than one another (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Increased vascular flow of the deep plexus in cicatricial stages can be a consequence of superficial tissue ischaemia or fibrosis. It is difficult to establish if the increased flow in the inflammatory stage is due to neovascularization as seen in other ischaemic diseases or is the result of the inflammatory response. OCT may be a useful non‐invasive tool in imaging FFA. Not only can the technology assist in monitoring disease activity in a non‐invasive manner, but it may elucidate new pathophysiologic findings.
Chemical and textural equilibration of garnet during amphibolite facies metamorphism: The influence of coupled dissolution–reprecipitation
Authors: Dempster Tim J , La Piazza Julie , Taylor Andrew G , Beaudoin Nicolas , Chung Peter
Published: August 2017

Metamorphic equilibration requires chemical communication between minerals and may be inhibited through sluggish volume diffusion and or slow rates of dissolution in a fluid phase. Relatively slow diffusion and the perceived robust nature of chemical growth zoning may preclude garnet porphyroblasts from readily participating in low‐temperature amphibolite facies metamorphic reactions. Garnet is widely assumed to be a reactant in staurolite‐isograd reactions, and the evidence for this has been assessed in the Late Proterozoic Dalradian pelitic schists of the Scottish Highlands. The 3D imaging of garnet porphyroblasts in staurolite‐bearing schists reveals a good crystal shape and little evidence of marginal dissolution; however, there is also lack of evidence for the involvement of either chlorite or chloritoid in the reaction. Staurolite forms directly adjacent to the garnet, and its nucleation is strongly associated with deformation of the muscovite‐rich fabrics around the porphyroblasts. “Cloudy” fluid inclusion‐rich garnet forms in both marginal and internal parts of the garnet porphyroblast and is linked both to the production of staurolite and to the introduction of abundant quartz inclusions within the garnet. Such cloudy garnet typically has a Mg‐rich, Mn‐poor composition and is interpreted to have formed during a coupled dissolution–reprecipitation process, triggered by a local influx of fluid. All garnet in the muscovite‐bearing schists present in this area is potentially reactive, irrespective of the garnet composition, but very few of the schists contain staurolite. The staurolite‐producing reaction appears to be substantially overstepped during the relatively high‐pressure Barrovian regional metamorphism reflecting the limited permeability of the schists in peak metamorphic conditions. Fluid influx and hence reaction progress appear to be strongly controlled by subtle differences in deformation history. The remaining garnet fails to achieve chemical equilibrium during the reaction creating distinctive patchy compositional zoning. Such zoning in metamorphic garnet created during coupled dissolution–reprecipitation reactions may be difficult to recognize in higher grade pelites due to subsequent diffusive re‐equilibration. Fundamental assumptions about metamorphic processes are questioned by the lack of chemical equilibrium during this reaction and the restricted permeability of the regional metamorphic pelitic schists. In addition, the partial loss of prograde chemical and textural information from the garnet porphyroblasts cautions against their routine use as a reliable monitor of metamorphic history. However, the partial re‐equilibration of the porphyroblasts during coupled dissolution–reprecipitation opens possibilities of mapping reaction progress in garnet as a means of assessing fluid access during peak metamorphic conditions.
Digit ratio 2D:4D is a possible indicator for androgenetic alopecia in males
Authors: Unal Mehmet
Published: August 2017

Background

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common hair loss. The 2D:4D digit ratio refers to the ratio of the length of the second finger to that of the fourth finger and is thought as a marker of prenatal androgen exposure.

Objectives

There are many studies which have examined the relationship between 2D:4D ratio and some other diseases. In this study, we evaluated the relationship between digit ratio 2D:4D and AGA.

Methods

The study group was composed of a male with AGA and healthy controls. The lengths of patients’ second and fourth fingers were measured using a digital caliper with a resolution of 0.01 mm. Finger length was measured on the palmar side of the hand from the basal metacarpophalangeal crease. The 2D:4D ratio was obtained by dividing the length of the second finger by the length of the fourth finger.

Results

A total of 99 males who have androgenetic alopecia with a score of grade III or more and 90 controls were included. The mean age of AGA group was 29.72 ± 5.53, and the mean age of control group was 19.63 ± 5.05. The left‐hand 2D:4D ratios of AGA group (0.893 ± 0.267) were significantly lower than healthy controls (0.971 ± 0.028). No significant relationships were found between AGA severity, age of onset,and digit ratios.

Conclusions

The left‐hand digit ratio 2D:4D is lower in AGA patients, and therefore, left‐hand digit ratio 2D:4D can be used as an estimation tool for AGA development in future. There is not any correlation between digit ratio and age of onset. Also, there is no correlation between digit ratio 2D:4D and AGA severity.