bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infectious bronchitis virus attaches to lipid rafts and enters cells via clathrin mediated endocytosis
Authors: Wang Huan , Sun Yingjie , Mao Xiang , Meng Chunchun , Tan Lei , Song Cuiping , Qiu Xusheng , Ding Chan , Liao Ying
Published: June 2018

Due to its economic importance to in poultry industry, the biology and pathogenesis of infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) have been investigated extensively. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in IBV entry are not well characterized. In this study, systematic approaches were used to dissect IBV entry process in various susceptible cells. First, we observed that lipid rafts were involved in IBV attachment. Second, low pH in intracyplasmic vesicles was required for virus entry. By using the specific clathrin mediated endocytosis (CME) inhibitor or knock down of clathrin heavy chain (CHC), we demonstrated that IBV mainly utilized the CME for its entry. Furthermore, GTPase dynamin1 was involved in virus containing vesicle scission and internalization. Surprisingly, CME adaptor Eps15 had no effect on IBV internalization. Third, the penetration of IBV into cells led to active cytoskeleton rearrangement. After internalization, virus particles moved along with the classical endosome/lysosome track, as evidenced by co-localization of R18 labeled IBV with vehicle markers Rab5/Rab7/LAMP1 along with the infection time course. Functional inactivation of Rab5 and Rab7 significantly inhibited IBV infection. VCP, a protein helps early endosome maturation, was involved virus trafficking. Finally, by using the dual R18/DiOC labeled IBV, we observed that membrane fusion with late endosome/lysosome membranes was induced between 2-3 h.p.i.. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that IBV virions attach to lipid rafts and are internalized into cells via CME, move along with early/late endosomes-lysosomes, finally fuse with late endosome-lysosome membranes, release virus genome into cytoplasm. This study provides comprehensive images of IBV attachment-internalization-trafficking-fusion steps.

IMPORTANCE

IBV, the avian coronavirus isolated in 1937, infects chicken and causes economic loss in poultry industry. It has been reported that the entry of IBV requires low pH. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying IBV internalization and trafficking remain to be clarified. Therefore, we employed multiple chemical and molecular approaches to dissect the entry mechanisms of IBV in susceptible cells. Our results showed IBV entry was significantly inhibited when clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME) was blocked by chemical inhibitor or depletion of clathrin protein. Moreover, by using R18-labeled IBV, we found that IBV particles attached to lipid rafts, led to actin rearrangement, and moved along with the entire endosomal system. R18/DiOC labeling method showed that IBV fused with late endosomes or lysosomes. This is the first report to describe the entire entry process of IBV, allowing for a better understanding of the infection process of group III avian coronavirus.
High resolution profile of body wide pathological changes induced by abnormal elastin metabolism in Loxl1 knockout mice
Authors: Wu Bingbing , Li Yu , An Chengrui , Jiang Deming , Gong Lin , Liu Yanshan , Liu Yixiao , Li Jun , Ouyang HongWei , Zou XiaoHui
Published: June 2018

Abnormal ECM caused serious body wide diseases and elastin is one of the important ECM components. But its systemic function still has not yet been thoroughly illustrated due to limitations related to novel research technologies. To uncover the functions of elastin, a new method for body-wide organ transcriptome profiling, combined with single-cell mass cytometry of the blood, was developed. A body-wide organ transcriptomic (BOT) map was created by performing RNA-seq of 17 organs from both Loxl1 knockout (KO) and wide type (WT) mice. The BOT results showed a systematic up-regulation of genes related to immune response and proliferation process in multiple tissues of the KO mice; histological and immune staining also confirmed the hyperplasia and infiltration of local immune cells in the vagina, small intestine, and liver tissues of KO mice. Furthermore, using 32 markers, CYTOF mass cytometry analysis of the immune cell subpopulations from the peripheral blood revealed apparent systemic immune changes in the KO mice; data showed an activated NK cells and T cells with a higher expression of CD44 and CD38, and a suppressed B cells, macrophages and neutrophils with lower expressions of CD62L, CD44 and IL6. More interestingly, these findings also correlated well with the data obtained from cancer patient databases; tumor patients had higher mutation frequency of Loxl1, and the Loxl1-mutant tumor patients had up-regulated immune process, cell proliferation and decreased survival rate. Thus, this research provided a powerful strategy to screen body-wide organ functions of a particular gene; the findings also illustrated the important biological roles of elastin on multiple organ cells and systemic immunity. These strategy and discoveries are both of important value for the understanding of ECM biology and multi-organ cancer pathology.
Three-dimensional refractive index distributions of individual angiosperm pollen grains
Authors: Park Chansuk , Lee SangYun , Kim Geon , Lee SeungJun , Lee Jaehoon , Heo Taehyun , Park Yoonjeong , Park YongKeun
Published: June 2018

Three-dimensional (3D) refractive index (RI) imaging and quantitative analyses of angiosperm pollen grains are presented. Using optical diffraction tomography, the 3D RI structures of individual angiosperm pollen grains were measured without using labeling or other preparation techniques. Various physical quantities, including volume, surface area, exine volume, and sphericity, were determined from the measured RI tomograms of pollen grains. Exine skeletons, the distinct internal structures of angiosperm pollen grains, were identified and systematically analyzed.
Nicastrin haploinsufficiency alters expression of type-I interferon-stimulated genes in two immortalized human cell lines
Authors: Cao Li , Morales-Heil David J. , Roberson Elisha D. O.
Published: June 2018

A.

Background

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin disease. The symptoms can be severe, and include intensely painful nodules and abscesses in apocrine-gland rich inverse skin, such as the buttocks, under the arms, and the groin. Autosomal dominant forms of HS exist, but are rare. Some of these kindred have heterozygous loss-of-function rare variants in the γ-secretase complex component nicastrin (NCSTN).

Objectives

We wanted to know what effect NCSTN haploinsufficiency has on human keratinocytes to assess potential mechanisms for lesion development.

Methods

We knocked down nicastrin using an shRNA construct in both a keratinocyte cell line (HEK001) and an embryonic kidney cell line (HEK293). We assessed differential gene expression using RNA microarray. We also generated a NCSTN heterozygous deletion in the HEK293 line using CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing and assessed NFKB activity in this line using a luciferase reporter.

Results

The keratinocyte NCSTN knockdown cell line demonstrated significantly increased expression of genes related to the type-I interferon response pathway when compared to controls. Both HEK001 and HEK293 knockdowns demonstrated evidence for altered growth. We observed a small, but significant increase in NFKB signaling in response to TNF treatment a HEK293 line genome-edited for reduced NCSTN.

Conclusions

Our data suggest a role for increased keratinocyte inflammatory responsiveness in familial HS. Confirming this phenotype, and characterizing additional effects in different cell types, will require study beyond cell lines in primary cells and tissues.
DARPins recognizing mTFP1 as novel reagents for in vitro and in vivo protein manipulations
Authors: Vigano M. Alessandra , Bieli Dimitri , Schaefer Jonas V. , Peter Jakob Roman , Matsuda Shinya , Maier Timm , Plückthun Andreas , Affolter Markus
Published: June 2018

Over the last few years, protein-based affinity reagents have proven very helpful in cell and developmental biology. While many of these versatile small proteins can be expressed both in the intracellular and extracellular milieu in cultured cells and in living organisms, they can also be functionalized by fusing them to different protein domains in order to regulate or modulate their target proteins in diverse manners. For example, protein binders have been employed to degrade, trap, localize or enzymatically modify specific target proteins. Whereas binders to many endogenous proteins or small protein tags have been generated, also several affinity reagents against fluorescent proteins have been created and used to manipulate target proteins tagged with the corresponding fluorescent protein. Both of these approaches have resulted in improved methods for cell biological and developmental studies. While binders against GFP and mCherry have been previously isolated and validated, we now report the generation and utilization of designed ankyrin repeat proteins (DARPins) against the monomeric teal fluorescent protein 1 (mTFP1). Here we use the generated DARPins to delocalize Rab proteins to the nuclear compartment, in which they cannot fulfill their regular functions anymore. In the future, such manipulations might enable the production of acute loss-of-function phenotypes in different cell types or living organisms based on direct protein manipulation rather than on genetic loss-of-function analyses.

Summary statement

Structural characterization of two novel DARPins (designed ankyrin repeat proteins) recognizing the monomeric teal fluorescent protein 1 (mTFP1) and their functionalization for protein manipulation strategies in cultured cells and potentially in living organisms.
Sequence variability, constraint and selection in the CD163 gene in pigs
Authors: Johnsson Martin , Ros-Freixedes Roger , Gorjanc Gregor , Campbell Matt A. , Naswa Sudhir , Kelly Kimberly , Lightner Jonathon , Rounsley Steve , Hickey John M.
Published: June 2018

Background

In this paper, we investigate sequence variability, evolutionary constraint, and selection on the CD163 gene in pigs. The pig CD163 gene is required for infection by porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), a serious pathogen with major impact on pig production.

Results

We used targeted pooled sequencing of the exons of CD163 to detect sequence variants in 35,000 pigs of diverse genetic backgrounds and search for potential knock-out variants. We then used whole genome sequence data from three pig lines to calculate a variant intolerance score, which measures the tolerance of genes to protein coding variation, a selection test on protein coding variation over evolutionary time, and haplotype diversity statistics to detect recent selective sweeps during breeding.

Conclusions

We performed a deep survey of sequence variation in the CD163 gene in domestic pigs. We found no potential knock-out variants. CD163 was moderately intolerant to variation, and showed evidence of positive selection in the lineage leading up to the pig, but no evidence of selective sweeps during breeding.
Are women really risk-averse? The lending behavior of women-owned banking cooperatives in India
Authors: Ghosh Saibal
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the lending behavior of women-owned cooperatives (WoCs) by exploiting the natural experiment of the financial crisis, employing a novel data set of Indian cooperative banks during 2004–2013.

Design/methodology/approach

In view of the longitudinal nature of the data, the authors employ panel data techniques for the purposes of analysis.

Findings

The findings indicate that WoC banks increased lending to both agriculture and small-scale industries, especially in high-income states. Further disaggregation reveals that the possible weaknesses in asset quality from lending to these sectors in low-income states could be driving the results.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this is one of the earliest studies for a leading emerging economy to empirically investigate the behavior of WoC banks and relatedly, how their behavior evolved during the financial crisis.
Chinese strategic thinking on competitive conflict: insights from Yin-Yang harmony cognition
Authors: Chin Tachia , Rowley Chris , Redding Gordon , Wang Shouyang
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Grounded in Yijing, the wellspring of Chinese philosophies, this research aims to propose a novel interpretation of the indigenous Yin-Yang harmony cognitive framework, and to elaborate on how to use it as a meta-theorising tool to characterise the conflicting yet complementary dynamics of strategy, commonly seen as the prominent feature of Chinese strategic thinking.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the Yin-Yang harmony approach (i.e. Yin as the endogenous factors and Yang the exogenous factors), the authors first put forward eight paradoxical situations facing Chinese organisations as per the changing paradigm of Yijing. Then the authors use the thick description model as a roadmap to identify three evolving trajectories in Chinese higher education (HE) system. Finally, they raise four strategic propositions regarding how competing HE institutes handle the conflicting yet complementary dynamics in China.

Findings

Results show that the main strategic choices used by two different types of higher education institutes to cope with the current high-level uncertainty and competition could be described in terms of the two “Qian” and “Li” strategic situations, respectively. More details are discussed in the four propositions.

Research limitations/implications

This research brings potentially valuable implications for global regulators, policymakers, providers and other stakeholders through better understanding of HE-related issues, as well as certain distinct conceptual complexities in terms of developing strategies in China. It implies potentially significant differences in cognition between East and West, and illustrates what may be their workings.

Originality/value

This indigenous eight-dimensional paradigm demonstrates the conflicting yet complementary dynamic gestalt of organisational strategic choices that may only be realised in Chinese terms, and that cannot be elucidated by theories purely derived from Western experience. It thus can foster the transfer of understanding between the East and West and open a new chapter for future research.
The effect of human capital on regional financial conditions through cultural capital of employees
Authors: Nirwana Nirwana
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss about whether human capital and cultural capital affect the financial condition of a region and whether cultural capital has a mediating effect (mediator) on the effect of human capital on the financial condition of a region. Moreover, this research also refines previous research by combining the simultaneous effect of the variables human capital and cultural capital on the financial condition of a region and examining the mediating effect of the variable cultural capital.

Design/methodology/approach

Research was conducted at the Regional Apparatus Work Unit (SKPD) in the Area of South Sulawesi Province with a total population of up to 630. The inferential statistical analysis using the method of variance-based structural equation modeling (SEM) is known as partial least squares SEM.

Findings

Human capital has positive influence on cultural capital. The higher human capital, primarily reflected in the work experience, will result in increasing the capital of culture in the working environment of local government in the province of South Sulawesi.

Originality/value

Originality of this paper is as follows: an inferential method used in this research is an SEM. The location of the research located in of the Regional Apparatus Work Unit (SKPD) in the Area of South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia, Indonesia which there has not been research by the methods and the same location.
The effect of social capital and knowledge sharing to the small medium enterprise’s performance and sustainability strategies
Authors: Meflinda Astuti , Mahyarni Mahyarni , Indrayani Henni , Wulandari Hesty
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The development of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Indonesia is one of the national economic development priorities. SMEs have given benefits for society, especially in creating a fair income distribution and supporting economic growth. This paper aims to examine and analyze the impact of social capital and knowledge sharing on the sustainability strategy and performance of SME and to formulate policies about SMEs in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was carried out in Riau Province, which is the closest province to Malaysia and Singapore. The authors collected data from 56 SMEs in trading and craft industries by using the purposive sampling method. The data were analyzed using partial least square technique.

Findings

The result of data analysis shows that social capital and knowledge sharing significantly affect the sustainability strategy of SMEs. Furthermore, sustainability strategy and knowledge sharing affects SME performance significantly, whereas social capital does not affect its performance.

Originality/value

A participatory approach (partial least square) was used, the location of the research was Riau Province, Indonesia and the participants in this study are the perpetrators of the micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises. This method and location have not been considered in earlier studies.
Introducing data analytics to the robotic drilling process
Authors: Al Khawli Toufik , Bendemra Hamza , Anwar Muddasar , Swart Dewald , Dias Jorge
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This paper presents a method for extracting the geometric primitives of a circle in a three-dimensional space from a discrete point cloud data set obtained by a laser stripe sensor. This paper aims to first establish a reference frame for the robotic drilling process by detecting the position and orientation of a reference hole on structural parts in a pre-drilling step, and second, to perform quality inspection of the hole in a post-drilling step.

Design/methodology/approach

The method is divided into the following steps: a plane is initially fitted on the data by evaluating the principle component analysis using singular value decomposition; the data points or measurements are then rotated around an arbitrary axis using the Rodrigues’ rotation formula such that the normal direction of the estimated plane and the z-axis direction is parallel; the Delaunay triangulation is constructed on the point cloud and the confidence interval is estimated for segmenting the data set located at the circular boundary; and finally, a circular profile is fitted on the extracted set and transformed back to the original position.

Findings

The geometric estimation of the circle in three-dimensional space constitutes of the position of the center, the diameter and the orientation, which is represented by the normal vector of the plane that the circle lives in. The method is applied on both simulated data set with the addition of several noise levels and experimental data sets. The main purpose of both the tests is to quantify the accuracy of the estimated diameter. The results show good accuracy (mean relative error < 1 per cent) and high robustness to noise.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed method is applied here to estimate the geometric primitives of only one circle (the reference hole). If multiple circles are needed, an addition clustering procedure is required to cluster the segmented data into multiple data sets. Each data set represents a circle. Also, the method does not operate efficiently on a sparse data sets. Dense data are required to cover the hole (at least ten scans to cover the hole diameter).

Practical implications

Researchers and practitioners can integrate this method with several robotic manufacturing applications where high accuracy is required. The extracted position and orientation of the hole are used to minimize the positioning and alignment errors between the mounted tool tip and the workpiece.

Originality/value

The method introduces data analytics for estimating the geometric primitives in the robotic drilling application. The main advantage of the proposed method is to register the top surface of the workpiece with respect to robot base frame with a high accuracy. An accurate workpiece registration is extremely necessary in the lateral direction (identifying where to drill), as well as in the vertical direction (identifying how far to drill).
The effect of additional egg supplementation on vitamin and mineral fortification program on growth, cognitive development and hemoglobin in Indonesian underweight and stunting children
Authors: Sudargo Toto , Muhammad Harry Freitag Luglio , Kandarina Istiti , Putri Nurul , Irianto Sugeng Eko , Pranoto Yosephin Anandati , Paramastri Rathi
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Stunting and being underweight in children are major nutritional problems especially in developing countries. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of egg supplementation on a vitamin and mineral fortification program for growth, cognitive development and hemoglobin in underweight and stunted children.

Design/methodology/approach

This was an experimental study using a crossover design conducted in Yogyakarta province, Indonesia. A total of 39 subjects were randomly selected from two community health centers and provided with two types of intervention: vitamin and mineral fortification sprinkle (Taburia) and Taburia with egg supplementation (Taburia PLUS). Each intervention was conducted for three months with one-month of washout period in between interventions.

Findings

There were no changes in weight-for-age Z-score in Taburia and Taburia PLUS (all p > 0.05). The height-for-age Z-score was increased in Taburia PLUS (p = 0.022) but not in Taburia (p > 0.05). Hemoglobin level was significantly increased in Taburia (p = 0.039) but not in Taburia PLUS (p > 0.05). There were no significant changes in visual motoric score in Taburia, but there were slight increases in Taburia PLUS (all p > 0.05).

Originality/value

The authors concluded that egg supplementation combined with multivitamins and minerals fortification program, Taburia PLUS, is beneficial to improve linear growth but not hemoglobin in stunted and underweight children.
Applying spatial literacy to transform library space: a selected literature review
Authors: Gray Juliet Kerico , Burel Melissa , Graser Marlee , Gallacci Karen
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review a selection of articles and books that highlight aspects of spatial theory and literacy from various disciplinary perspectives, along with a review of library space studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study reviews library literature that uses spatial literacy and its related tools. The authors searched in two databases: Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts, and SCOPUS. The paper records were analyzed to find primary research studies, published between 2010 and 2017, which study patron use of library space using various single and hybrid methodologies.

Findings

The findings of the literature reveal that of the 26 studies reviewed, 23 have a descriptive research question and three have a relational research question. Based on the analysis of the research methodologies used, there is more that can be done in support of a librarian’s research efforts as well as the arenas in which research is conducted.

Practical implications

These findings highlight ways in which library and information science researchers and those who educate them can broaden knowledge within the profession regarding spatial theory, literacy and applicable research methodologies for studying library space.

Originality/value

Current and best practices for designing library space studies that use spatial literacy to collect and analyze data are identified along with a discussion of future directions for researchers to better assess space and communicate the value of physical space in libraries.
The Functions of Australian Banks’ Branch Networks: The Diversification of Risks and Spatial Allocation of Capital
Authors: Seltzer Andrew J.
Published: June 2018

This paper examines the consequences of branch banking for the Australian economy. There is little evidence to show that branching increased the stability of Australian banking. During the 1893 crisis, banks with more extensive branch networks, particularly those that had rapidly expanded their networks during the long boom of 1866‐89, were more likely to suspend payments. However, it is shown that branching increased the availability of capital and provision of banking services in rural areas. This occurred because, unlike unit banks, which were tied to a specific location, branch banks could internally reallocate capital from urban to rural regions at low cost.
Self‐reported environmental health risks of nurses working in hospital surgical units
Authors: Azizoğlu F. , Köse A. , Gül H.
Published: June 2018

Aim

This study investigated the occupational health risk factors among nurses who work in public hospital surgical units.

Background

Nursing has a significant place in healthcare systems around the world. Surgical units are environments with certain risks, especially because of the possibility of exposure to various chemical, biologic or physical hazards.

Methods

This study was conducted with 229 nurses who were working in the 11 surgery units of a big university hospital. In this cross‐sectional study, a personal information form and an occupational risk factors scale were administered to respondents. We performed factor and reliability analyses for the scale; the overall reliability of the 41 items was α = 0.924, and the factor analysis found the scale was feasible.

Results

Biologic and psychological risk factor levels were found to be high. Physical, chemical, ergonomic and radiation risk factor levels were moderate. The general occupational risk factor score was moderate. Nurses working night duty were confronted with physical and psychological risk factors at a higher rate compared with those working in the daytime.

Conclusion

Reported occupational health problems by nurses were correlated with the descriptive properties of the nurses including age, sex, marital status, education level, working hours, mode of working and status of occupational health and safety training.

Implications for nursing

Nurses experience different occupational risks. If these risks are identified, healthier working environments can be provided to the nurses by taking necessary precautions.

Implications for social policy

The health care provided by nurses who work in a healthy environment would be more efficient and of better quality, which will result in better economic and social outcomes for individual and communities.
Periodontal health
Authors: Lang Niklaus P. , Bartold P. Mark
Published: June 2018

Objectives

To date there is a paucity of documentation regarding definitions of periodontal health. This review considers the histological and clinical determinants of periodontal health for both intact and reduced periodontium and seeks to propose appropriate definitions according to treatment outcomes.

Importance

Defining periodontal health is can serve as a vital common reference point for assessing disease and determining meaningful treatment outcomes.

Findings

The multifactorial nature of periodontitis is accepted, and it is recognized that restoration of periodontal health will be defined by an individual's response to treatment, taking into account allostatic conditions.

Conclusions

It is proposed that there are 4 levels of periodontal health, depending on the state of the periodontium (structurally and clinically sound or reduced) and the relative treatment outcomes: (1) pristine periodontal health, with a structurally sound and uninflamed periodontium; (2) well‐maintained clinical periodontal health, with a structurally and clinically sound (intact) periodontium; (3) periodontal disease stability, with a reduced periodontium, and (4) periodontal disease remission/control, with a reduced periodontium.
Classification and diagnosis of aggressive periodontitis
Authors: Fine Daniel H. , Patil Amey G. , Loos Bruno G.
Published: June 2018

Objective

Since the initial description of aggressive periodontitis (AgP) in the early 1900s, classification of this disease has been in flux. The goal of this manuscript is to review the existing literature and to revisit definitions and diagnostic criteria for AgP.

Study analysis

An extensive literature search was performed that included databases from PubMed, Medline, Cochrane, Scopus and Web of Science. Of 4930 articles reviewed, 4737 were eliminated. Criteria for elimination included; age > 30 years old, abstracts, review articles, absence of controls, fewer than; a) 200 subjects for genetic studies, and b) 20 subjects for other studies. Studies satisfying the entrance criteria were included in tables developed for AgP (localized and generalized), in areas related to epidemiology, microbial, host and genetic analyses. The highest rank was given to studies that were; a) case controlled or cohort, b) assessed at more than one time‐point, c) assessed for more than one factor (microbial or host), and at multiple sites.

Results

Epidemiologic studies provided insight into ethnic and societal factors affecting AgP. DNA analysis of microbes showed some consistency but significant variability. Host factor analysis was less consistent. Many genetic studies were conducted but few had either sufficient power or looked at multiple genes in AgP.

Conclusions

Conflicting data resulted for several reasons; 1) the classification was too broad, 2) the disease (AgP) was not studied from its inception, at differing time points (temporal), and at different locations (topographic). New technologic advances coupled with a more delimiting definition of disease will allow for genetic, host and microbial factor analyses in an unbiased manner. As such we predict that progress can be made in identifying a robust group of genetic, host, and microbial risk‐markers associated with periodontal disease that can improve diagnostic capability in disease associated with juveniles, adolescents, and post‐adolescent individuals.
Occlusal trauma and excessive occlusal forces: Narrative review, case definitions, and diagnostic considerations
Authors: Fan Jingyuan , Caton Jack G.
Published: June 2018

Objectives

This narrative review determines the effects of occlusal trauma and excessive occlusal forces on the periodontium, including the initiation and progression of periodontitis, abfraction, and gingival recession. Case definitions, diagnostic considerations, and the effects of occlusal therapy are also reviewed and discussed.

Importance

The role of occlusal trauma in the initiation and progression of periodontitis remains a controversial subject in periodontology. Because occlusal trauma can only be confirmed histologically, its clinical diagnosis depends on clinical and radiographic surrogate indicators which make clinical trials difficult.

Findings

Investigations have generally agreed that occlusal trauma and excessive occlusal forces do not initiate periodontitis or loss of connective tissue attachment. When plaque‐induced periodontitis and occlusal trauma are present at the same time, there is weak evidence that the occlusal trauma may increase the rate of connective tissue loss. Occlusal therapy is indicated as part of periodontal therapy to reduce mobility and increase patient comfort and masticatory function. Existing data do not support the existence of abfraction as a cause for gingival recession.

Conclusions

Occlusal trauma does not initiate periodontitis, and there is weak evidence that it alters the progression of the disease. There is no credible evidence to support the existence of abfraction or implicate it as a cause of gingival recession. Reduction of tooth mobility may enhance the effect of periodontal therapy.
Flood risk‐benefit assessment to support management of flood‐prone lands
Authors: Juarez‐Lucas Andrea M. , Kibler Kelly M. , Sayama Takahiro , Ohara Miho
Published: June 2018

Flood risk assessments often overlook benefits of floodplain use and the influence of coping capacity. Herein we present a classic flood risk analysis, but simultaneously evaluate benefits of flood‐prone land use in Candaba, Philippines. By combining simulated flood probabilities with both damage and benefit functions, we estimate agricultural damages and livelihood benefits over flood hazards of varying frequency. We find that concurrent evaluation of both damages and benefits provides more complete information on which flood risk reduction decisions may be based. In Candaba, although “risky” uses of flood‐prone land are associated with rice‐crop damages, livelihood benefits exceed risks by a large margin (US $58 million) across the range of investigated flood hazards. Even considering risk, net benefits of direct human floodplain use far exceed benefits provided when direct “risky” human uses are excluded (difference of $85–87 million). We also find that individual coping strategies (adapting crop cycles to the flood pulse or shifting from farming to seasonal fishing) may minimise flood losses while supporting livelihood benefits (net benefit of $125 million). Risk‐benefit analysis can support floodplain management by elucidating practices that yield maximum socio‐ecological benefits for the minimum flood risk.
Lactobacillus acidophilus suppresses intestinal inflammation by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Kim Da Hye , Kim Soochan , Lee Jin Ha , Kim Jae Hyeon , Che Xiumei , Ma Hyun Woo , Seo Dong Hyuk , Kim Tae II , Kim Won Ho , Kim Seung Won , Cheon Jae Hee
Published: June 2018

Background and Aim

Nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) activation and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress signaling play significant roles in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Thus, we evaluated whether new therapeutic probiotics have anti‐colitic effects, and we investigated their mechanisms related to NF‐κB and ER‐stress pathways.

Methods

Luciferase, nitric oxide, and cytokine assays using HT‐29 or RAW264.7 cells were conducted. Mouse colitis was induced using dextran sulfate sodium and confirmed by disease activity index and histology. Macrophages and T‐cell subsets in isolated peritoneal cavity cells and splenocytes were analyzed by flow cytometry. Gene and cytokine expression profiles were determined using reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Lactobacillus acidophilus (LA1) and Pediococcus pentosaceus inhibited nitric oxide production in RAW264.7 cells, but only LA1 inhibited Tnfa and induced Il10 expression. LA1 increased the lifespan of dextran sulfate sodium‐treated mice and attenuated the severity of colitis by inducing M2 macrophages in peritoneal cavity cells and Th2 and Treg cells in splenocytes. The restoration of goblet cells in the colon was accompanied by the induction of Il10 expression and the suppression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, we found that LA1 exerts an anti‐colitic effect by improving ER stress in HT‐29 cells as well as in vivo.

Conclusions

We showed that LA1 significantly interferes with ER stress and suppresses NF‐κB activation. Our findings suggest that LA1 can be used as a potent immunomodulator in IBD treatment, and the regulation of ER stress may have significant implications in treating IBD.
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing as a treatment for PTSD: current neurobiological theories and a new hypothesis
Authors: Calancie Olivia G. , Khalid‐Khan Sarosh , Booij Linda , Munoz Douglas P.
Published: June 2018

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), a form of psychotherapy for individuals with post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), has long been a controversial topic, hampered in part by a lack of understanding of the neural mechanisms that contribute to its remedial effect. Here, we review current theories describing EMDR's potential neurobiological mechanisms of action involving working memory, interhemispheric communication, de‐arousal, and memory reconsolidation. We then discuss recent studies describing the temporal and spatial aspects of smooth pursuit and predictive saccades, which resemble those made during EMDR, and their neural correlates within the default mode network (DMN) and cerebellum. We hypothesize that if the production of bilateral predictive eye movements is supportive of DMN and cerebellum activation, then therapies that shift the brain towards this state correspondingly would benefit the processes regulated by these structures (i.e., memory retrieval, relaxation, and associative learning), all of which are essential components for PTSD recovery. We propose that the timing of sensory stimulation may be relevant to treatment effect and could be adapted across different patients depending on their baseline saccade metrics. Empirical data in support of this model are reviewed and experimental predictions are discussed.
Left ventricular sphericity index analysis for the prediction of appropriate implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator therapy
Authors: Anvari Shideh , Akbarzadeh Mohammad Ali , Bayat Fariba , Namazi Mohammad Hasan , Safi Morteza
Published: June 2018

Background

Implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) is the most effective therapy currently available to prevent sudden cardiac death (SCD) in patients with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. Although LV ejection fraction (LVEF) is an excellent marker of SCD in these patients, determining other predictors might help to identify patients who will be benefit more from device implantation. The purpose of this study was to determine whether abnormal LV sphericity index (SI) in transthoracic echocardiography is associated with appropriate ICD therapy in these patients.

Methods

A total of 140 patients with primary ICD implantation (mean age 62.59 ± 11.36 years; 98 [70%] male) were included. The patients were classified into “no ICD therapy” or “ICD therapy” group according to the information of their devices for a maximum of 2 previous years. In four‐chamber view image of transthoracic echocardiography, SI was calculated by dividing the major‐axis dimension to minor‐axis dimension of LV in both groups.

Results

Compared with patients with no ICD therapy, patients in ICD therapy group had lower LVEF (31.36 ± 9.58 vs 23.24 ± 6.03, P = 0.0001) and lower SI (1.79 ± 0.29 vs 1.57 ± 0.32, P = 0.0001). In multivariant logistic regression analysis, the SI of ≤1.58 was associated with fourfold increase of appropriate ICD therapy, even after adjusting for LVEF (odds ratio, 4.08; 95% confidence interval, 1.71–9.75; P = 0.02).

Conclusion

Simple echocardiographic sphericity dimension index as a marker of cardiac remodeling may be an important predictor of appropriate ICD therapy in patients with primary prevention ICDs and may provide additive risk stratification in patients with LV systolic dysfunction.
Civil War Conflict Resolution from the Perspectives of the Practitioner and the Academic
Authors: Nathan Laurie , DeRouen Karl , Lounsbery Marie Olson
Published: June 2018

Civil wars are particularly challenging to resolve via mediated negotiations. Practitioners and policy makers employ a variety of approaches to help move warring actors from war to peace. To assist in this process, peace researchers have examined civil war peace processes from a variety of perspectives. In doing so, scholars assume their research will be useful beyond simply accumulating knowledge. It has become evident, however, that the research has not in fact informed policy and practice. This article begins by examining the articles presented in this two‐part special issue (April and July 2018) aimed at improving the scholar‐practitioner divide. Practical lessons derived from the research are presented. These lessons are followed by a frank assessment of what practitioners need from scholars, as well as recommendations for better bridging this important theory‐to‐practice divide.
Multifunctionality of pond fish farms in the opinion of the farm managers: the case of Hungary
Authors: Popp József , Békefi Emese , Duleba Szabolcs , Oláh Judit
Published: June 2018

Freshwater fish ponds, besides producing fish, function as valuable aquatic habitats, contribute to the maintenance and enrichment of the quality of the ecosystem, play an important role in water and landscape management, provide services for various recreational activities and contribute to the preservation of the cultural heritage. The multifunctional character of pond fish farming has been recognized for long time; however, recently it has also been realized that the deliberate multidirectional use of fish ponds (production, angling, recreation, education, etc.) offers additional economic benefits. Experience with the operation of multifunctional fish farms in Hungary has clearly shown that the diversification of activities is a promising alternative during the development of sustainable pond fish farming. However, further efforts are required to investigate the specificities and applicability of the various factors and also the optimal ratio between them to utilize the opportunities offered by multifunctional use of freshwater fish ponds. Research on multifunctional pond fish farming has mainly been limited to descriptions of the various functions of fish ponds, for example environmental services. However, the attitude of farm managers towards the possible multifunctional use of their farming system has never been investigated. In this study, the importance of the various existing or potential functions of a pond fish farm and their role in the future development of multifunctional pond fish farms have been investigated through the analysis of the appraisal of experienced farm managers by analytic hierarchy process. The results of the research provide empirical evidence that can be used for the elaboration of policies, development strategies, R&D and the legal frameworks needed for the sustainable development of multifunctional pond fish farming.
Relations Between Language and Cognition: Evidentiality and Sources of Knowledge
Authors: Ünal Ercenur , Papafragou Anna
Published: June 2018

Understanding and acquiring language involve mapping language onto conceptual representations. Nevertheless, several issues remain unresolved with respect to (a) how such mappings are performed, and (b) whether conceptual representations are susceptible to cross‐linguistic influences. In this article, we discuss these issues focusing on the domain of evidentiality and sources of knowledge. Empirical evidence in this domain yields growing support for the proposal that linguistic categories of evidentiality are tightly linked to, build on, and reflect conceptual representations of sources of knowledge that are shared across speakers of different languages.
Difficulties in Establishing Liability in Online Defamation; Tanzania Experience
Authors: W. Marwa Charles
Published: June 2018

This paper is devoted to uncover difficulties in establishing liability in online defamation in Tanzania. The focus is on the effectiveness of the current laws and regulations relating to online defamation; and the lack of awareness on the part of the general public on legal and practical challenges in establishing liability over defamatory comments occurring on the internet. The investigator discovered that, the existing legal framework in Tanzania cover issues of establishing liability in online defamation suffers from a number of inadequacies. Moreover the legal and practical challenges includes, the weakness of some law and regulations covering online defamation, limitation periods, jurisdiction and choice of law issues, investigation and admissibility of electronic evidence and its authenticity, identifying anonymous defendant and the rights to privacy. The author recommends that the government has to consider amending its law by taking on board the forgotten stakeholders opinions that would address by dealing with specific issues of liability in online defamation to internet users, Internet Service providers(ISP’s) and intermediary for their defamatory comments.
Commuting with on-site accommodation in the mining industry and its effects on spatial structures
Authors: Tykkyläinen Markku
Published: June 2018

An analysis is made of experiences and spatial effects of commuting by air with on-site accommodation for the purposes of resource extraction in sparsely populated areas. The case concerned is that of the Forrestania Nickel Mines in Western Australia, owned by the Outokumpu Group and opened in January 1993. Comparison is made with the Zaldivar Mine in Chile. This case study demonstrates that the reasons for the growth of airborne long-distance commuting lie in the increasing technical and economic possibilities for organising commuting between urban agglomerations and remote working sites, the introduction of compressed and rotational work schedules and the lifestyle and behaviour of the employees themselves, all of which factors favour long-distance commuting. Long-distance commuting causes a marked bifurcation in the life of an employee, as his working life and home life are entirely separate. His social ties and family are rooted in the social networks of his actual domicile, and many employees aspire to live in a metropolitan environment, as the availability of services, lifestyle, environment and social networks to be found there foster an attachment with their domiciles, whereas rural mining localities are not attractive for permanent dwelling and are thus not viable housing options if long-distance commuting is available. This increasing long-distance commuting restructures urban and rural housing and infrastructures. The spatial structure related to mining becomes fragmented, and it becomes a combination of various resource communities connected to home localities by different models of commuting operating over unpredictable. The paper demonstrates clearly that sophisticated technology, efforts to improve economic efficiency and individual preferences may lead to fundamental changes in the spatial structures of sparsely populated areas.
Accessibility in the provinces of Finland
Authors: Tykkyläinen Markku
Published: June 2018

Relative, mean and integral accessibility in the existing provinces of Finland and in the proposed new provinces was studied applying graph theory, through evaluating the shapes of the provinces by reference to polygonal graphs, and, in a more detailed analysis, through using flow graphs to represent the accessibility between locations. The sensitivity of the ac­cessibility structure was tested by means of two simulation experiments. The poorest accessibility levels existed in the more northerly provinces, although some provinces weak in this respect could also be found in Southern and Central Finland, especially when accessibility was studied in relation to the size of the province. This correlates with a certain backwardness in the development of the administrative regions in relation to population development. The proposed province revisions have not corrected this situation entirely. The locations of the provincial capitals are close to the (pareto‑)optimum in general, the non‑optimal cases being ones in which the most significant centres of population growth have been located elsewhere than in the provincial capital or its immediate sur­roundings. Integral accessibility as a measure of optimal location is not sensitive to changes in spatial structure, and extremely large movements of population would be required to cause any substantial alteration in the location of the optimal centre.