bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The muddle of ages, turnover, transit, and residence times in the carbon cycle
Authors: Sierra Carlos A. , Müller Markus , Metzler Holger , Manzoni Stefano , Trumbore Susan E.
Published: November 2016

Comparisons among ecosystem models or ecosystem dynamics along environmental gradients commonly rely on metrics that integrate different processes into a useful diagnostic. Terms such as age, turnover, residence, and transit times are often used for this purpose; however, these terms are variably defined in the literature and in many cases, calculations ignore assumptions implicit in their formulas. The aim of this opinion piece was i) to make evident these discrepancies and the incorrect use of formulas, ii) highlight recent results that simplify calculations and may help to avoid confusion, and iii) propose the adoption of simple and less ambiguous terms.
Introducing Miscanthus to the greening measures of the EU Common Agricultural Policy
Authors: Emmerling Christoph , Pude Ralf
Published: November 2016

The EU Common Agricultural Policy regulations for the 2014–2020 period comprise three ‘greening measures’ aimed at climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation. These three greening measures consist of the maintenance of permanent pastures, crop diversification and ecological focus areas (EFAs). Farmers are to assign 5% of their land as EFAs; this concerns for example grassland, hedges, buffer strips or nitrogen‐fixing crops. Short rotation coppice (SRC) as a perennial bioenergy crop is also considered as an eligible EFA within the EU greening measures, whereas Miscanthus is not. However, a quantitative comparison (t‐test) of SRC and Miscanthus revealed that both crops are similar in the delivery of a variety of ecosystem services, such as C storage and biodiversity. Moreover, Miscanthus may contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions due to a considerable CO2 mitigation potential. Due to the overall consensus of the ecological significance of Miscanthus in agro‐ecosystems with the greening measures within the EU CAP reform, we recommend acknowledging Miscanthus as an eligible EFA with a similar payment as for SRC, boundary ridges or buffer strips. Along with Miscanthus, a number of other perennial renewables also may contribute to what the CAP intends. We predict that introducing Miscanthus and even other perennial energy crops could also make European agriculture more innovative and effective.
Writing the body, writing others: A story of transcendence and potential in volunteering for development
Authors: Griffiths Mark
Published: November 2016

Scholars have explored the ways that hierarchical North–South relations are preserved and reproduced in the spaces of international volunteering. Global structural inequalities are widely understood to permeate relations between volunteers and hosts where even the intimacies of empathy and care are ascribed values drawn out of North–South divides. This article has two objectives. First, to explore the affective experience of volunteering for development as a potential realm in which more equitable volunteer–host relations unfold, and second, to include hosts (not just volunteers) in writing on international volunteering. Negotiating the politics of representation, the main body of the article draws on empirical data from fieldwork in India to write a performative account of volunteer–host relations. As the narrative progresses, volunteer‐host relations from outside the dichotomies imposed by the very uneven patterns of development that make hosts hosts, and volunteers volunteers. The article thus makes the argument that affective life in the spaces of volunteering opens up new possibilities for subjectivity that are insubordinate to – and therefore transcendent of – the subject positions delineated by the uneven flows of global power and privilege. The article closes by moving the discussion from transcendence to potential, suggesting that we might research further the potential political agencies that emerge from affective experience in volunteering and development.
Stem cell research: the role of information seeking and scanning
Authors: Nelissen Sara , Van den Bulck Jan , Lemal Marijke , Beullens Kathleen
Published: November 2016

Background

The mass media have held an ongoing debate about stem cell research. However, few studies have investigated how individuals obtain information on stem cell research and whether this affects their knowledge and perspectives on stem cell research.

Objective

This study aims to investigate whether (i) cancer‐diagnosed and non‐diagnosed individuals differ in terms of their acquisition of stem cell research information, (ii) whether this information acquisition is associated with stem cell research knowledge and perspectives and (iii) whether having had a cancer diagnosis moderates these associations.

Method

A standardised, cross‐sectional survey was conducted among a convenience sample of 621 cancer‐diagnosed and 1387 non‐diagnosed individuals in Flanders (Belgium).

Results

The results indicate that stem cell research information acquisition explains a significant part of the variance of stem cell research knowledge (8.9%) and of the societal benefits of stem cell research (6.7%) and of embryonic stem cell research evaluation (3.9%) and morality (2%). These associations did not differ between cancer‐diagnosed and non‐diagnosed individuals but cancer‐diagnosed individuals did seek more stem cell research information.

Conclusion

Acquiring stem cell research information, both intentionally and unintentionally, is positively related to stem cell research knowledge and perspectives. Future research should further identify ways to promote health information acquisition behaviour because it is associated with better knowledge and more positive opinion formation.
BRM/SMARCA2‐negative clear cell renal cell carcinoma is associated with a high percentage of BRM somatic mutations, deletions and promoter methylation
Authors: Xia Qiu‐Yuan , Zhan Xue‐Mei , Fan Xiang‐Shan , Ye Sheng‐Bing , Shi Shan‐Shan , Li Rui , Wei Xue , Wang Xuan , Ma Heng‐Hui , Lu Zhen‐Feng , Zhou Xiao‐Jun , Rao Qiu
Published: November 2016

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate potential molecular mechanisms associated with loss of BRM expression in poorly differentiated clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC).

Methods and results

Nineteen previously selected BRM‐negative RCC tissues were examined by DNA sequencing, fluorescence in‐situ hybridization (FISH) and methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of the BRM gene. BRM mutation was identified in 78.9% (15 of 19) cases, chromosome 9 monosomy or BRM deletion in 43.8% (seven of 16) and BRM promoter region cytosine–phosphate–guanine (CpG) methylation in 42.8% (six of 14). These results indicated that 89.5% (17 of 19) of the cases harboured at least one type of BRM genetic alteration, with two or more types of alteration in 47.4% (nine of 19). Such alterations were found rarely in adjacent non‐neoplastic tissues and low‐grade areas of composite tumours.

Conclusions

BRM gene mutation, chromosome 9 monosomy or BRM deletion and CpG methylation contribute collectively to the loss of BRM expression in ccRCC. This work focusing on composite tumours indicated that BRM abnormality occurred during tumour progression.
Antimicrobial potential and gustatory perception of chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwashes with or without alcohol after a single rinse – a randomized controlled crossover clinical trial
Authors: Cantarelli R , Negrini TC , Muniz FW , Oballe HJ , Arthur RA , Rösing CK
Published: November 2016

Objective

The aim of this double‐blind randomized clinical trial was to assess whether the presence of alcohol in chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwashes influences their antimicrobial potential against salivary bacteria in young adults. Additionally, the taste perception was assessed.

Materials and methods

In a randomized crossover design, 20 participants (17 women and three men; aged 18–38 years old) rinsed with the 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate with (CHX+) or without alcohol (CHX−) for 1 min. Sterile flavoured‐mint physiological saline was used as control solution. All participants rinsed with the assigned products only once with a period of at least 7 days of washout in between. For antimicrobial potential assay, stimulated saliva samples were collected from participants and had their total viable bacteria determined before and after each rinse. For taste perception assay, a visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the taste perception after each rinse. Friedman followed by Wilcoxon tests and Bonferroni correction were performed. A P‐value <0.017 was considered as statistically significant.

Results

The median per cent reduction in groups CHX+ and CHX− was 16.07 and 12.87, respectively. No statistically significant difference was found between these groups (P = 0.09). Regarding the gustatory perception, the VAS median values in groups CHX+ and CHX− were 3.50 and 5.50. No statistically significant difference was found in this outcome (P = 0.052).

Conclusions

The presence of the alcohol on the formulation of gluconate chlorhexidine mouthwashes does not seem to interfere with their antimicrobial potential and with their taste perception.
Effects of La content on the densification, microstructure, and conductivity of doped La10−xGe6O26±δ electrolytes
Authors: Wang Sea‐Fue , Liu Yi‐Xin , Hsu Yung‐Fu , Li Chun‐Jui , Jasinski Piotr
Published: November 2016

In this study, the influence of La content on the characteristics of Nb‐, Mo‐, and W‐doped LaxGe6O26±δ electrolytes was investigated through sintering study, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and conductivity measurement. The densification of LaxGe5.5Nb0.5O26±δ and LaxGe5.5W0.5O26±δ was retarded as the x reached 9.75, while that of LaxGe5.5Mo0.5O26±δ improved with increasing La content. The average grain size slightly increased and weight loss due to evaporation of GeO2 significantly reduced with increasing La content, ranging from 1.39% to 0.26%. Among the systems studied, La9.33Ge5.5Nb0.5O26.245, La9.33Ge5.5Mo0.5O26.045, and La9.50Ge5.5W0.5O26.75 electrolytes revealed great potential for use in SOFC applications.
Marphysa (Eunicidae, polychaete, Annelida) species of the Sanguinea group from Australia, with comments on pseudo‐cryptic species
Authors: Zanol Joana , da Silva Thauane dos S. C. , Hutchings Pat
Published: November 2016

The genus Marphysa is widely collected for bait by recreational fishermen in Australia, and yet the number of species remains unresolved. A new species is described together with additional information on a previously described species. This study reveals that while species of Marphysa superficially resemble one another, detailed studies on the distribution of different types of chaetae along the body, together with molecular studies, uncover species which may co‐occur. Correct identification is critical for management of these largely intertidal species. This study also highlights the increasing awareness of the presence of pseudo‐cryptic species in polychaetes.
Highly thermally conductive hexagonal boron nitride/alumina composite made from commercial hexagonal boron nitride
Authors: Hung Ching‐cheh , Hurst Janet , Santiago Diana , Lizcano Maricela , Kelly Marisabel
Published: November 2016

Hexagonal BN is an unusual material in that it is both highly thermally conductive as well as an electrical insulator. Additionally, hBN is also thermally stable in air. This unusual combination of properties makes hBN of significant interest for thermal management. Unfortunately, hBN is not easily consolidated into substrates without the addition of second phases which generally result in poorer thermal performance. This research investigates the potential to utilize this material to dissipate heat from high‐voltage, high‐power electrical devices. Specifically, a process to coat individual platelets of commercial hexagonal BN powder with a layer of amorphous aluminum oxide was developed. The coated hexagonal BN was then hot‐pressed to form a highly thermally conductive substrate. The process to coat hexagonal BN platelets with aluminum oxide was accomplished by mixing hexagonal BN with AlCl3 containing some water, then evaporation of excess AlCl3 to form a Al, Cl, and O layer on hexagonal BN. This product was then heated in air to convert the surface layer into aluminum oxide. Following hot pressing to 1950°C and 10 ksi, the consolidated composite has through‐plane and in‐plane thermal conductivity of 14 and 157 W·(m·K)−1, respectively, at room temperature.
Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor attenuates doxorubicin‐induced cardiac dysfunction through activating Akt signalling in rats
Authors: Hang Pengzhou , Zhao Jing , Sun Li , Li Minghui , Han Yu , Du Zhimin , Li Yue
Published: November 2016

The clinical application of doxorubicin (Dox) is limited by its adverse effect of cardiotoxicity. Previous studies have suggested the cardioprotective effect of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). We hypothesize that BDNF could protect against Dox‐induced cardiotoxicity. Sprague Dawley rats were injected with Dox (2.5 mg/kg, 3 times/week, i.p.), in the presence or absence of recombinant BDNF (0.4 μg/kg, i.v.) for 2 weeks. H9c2 cells were treated with Dox (1 μM) and/or BDNF (400 ng/ml) for 24 hrs. Functional roles of BDNF against Dox‐induced cardiac injury were examined both in vivo and in vitro. Protein level of BDNF was reduced in Dox‐treated rat ventricles, whereas BDNF and its receptor tropomyosin‐related kinase B (TrkB) were markedly up‐regulated after BDNF administration. Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor significantly inhibited Dox‐induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis, oxidative stress and cardiac dysfunction in rats. Meanwhile, BDNF increased cell viability, inhibited apoptosis and DNA damage of Dox‐treated H9c2 cells. Investigations of the underlying mechanisms revealed that BDNF activated Akt and preserved phosphorylation of mammalian target of rapamycin and Bad without affecting p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase and extracellular regulated protein kinase pathways. Furthermore, the beneficial effect of BDNF was abolished by BDNF scavenger TrkB‐Fc or Akt inhibitor. In conclusion, our findings reveal a potent protective role of BDNF against Dox‐induced cardiotoxicity by activating Akt signalling, which may facilitate the safe use of Dox in cancer treatment.
Cost‐effectiveness of the highly effective direct‐acting antivirals in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C in Hong Kong
Authors: Lo Angeline Oi‐Shan , Chan Henry Lik‐Yuen , Wong Vincent Wai‐Sun , Wong Grace Lai‐Hung
Published: November 2016

Background and Aim

In Asia‐Pacific where cost is a major concern, peginterferon plus ribavirin (PR) often remain as the standard of care in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) treatment, while the direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) are commonly recommended as retreatment. Newer DAAs can achieve a sustained virological response (SVR) of nearly 100% with pan‐genotypic coverage, that is “Highly Effective DAAs.” We aimed to investigate the most desirable cost range for the Highly Effective DAAs using Hong Kong as an example.

Methods

Markov modeling was performed using PR as the reference strategy. The cost‐effectiveness of the Highly Effective DAAs was compared with sofosbuvir‐PR (first‐line and rescue) and boceprevir‐PR therapies. A 50‐year‐old genotype 1b hepatitis C virus (HCV) infected treatment‐naïve patient with METAVIR F3 was used as the base case scenario to reflect the commonest HCV genotype in Hong Kong.

Results

The use of PR would incur a lifetime cost of US$35,854 and effectiveness of 14.85 quality‐adjusted life‐year (QALY). Sofosbuvir‐PR as first‐line treatment was dominated by other regimes. If Sofosbuvir‐PR rescue therapy was used, the drug cost of Highly Effective DAAs should be set below US$43,553, with a cost‐effectiveness ratio (CER) of US$3035/QALY compared with PR. In regions where Boceprevir‐PR was still used as first‐line therapy, the desirable drug cost of Highly Effective DAAs would be below US$56,985 to achieve a CER of US$5427/QALY.

Conclusions

The most desirable costs of the Highly Effective DAAs would be below US$43,553 if Sofosbuvir‐PR rescue therapy is used and below US$56,985 if Boceprevir‐PR therapy is used.
Metformin use and the risk of colorectal adenoma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Jung Yoon Suk , Park Chan Hyuk , Eun Chang Soo , Park Dong Il , Han Dong Soo
Published: November 2016

Background and Aim

Although it is known that metformin can reduce risk of colorectal cancer, it is unclear whether it protects against colorectal adenoma.

Methods

This study conducted a systematic literature search on MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library using the primary keywords “colorectal,” “colon,” “rectal,” “rectum,” “adenoma,” “polyp,” “neoplasia,” “neoplasm,” “metformin,” and “diabetes.” Studies were included if they evaluated the association between metformin use and colorectal adenoma and reported odds ratios (ORs) or provided data from which these could be estimated.

Results

Ten studies and a total of 8726 patients were evaluated. Across all studies, a median of 32.1% (range: 15.2–53.0%) of patients taking metformin also had adenoma; a median of 43.5% (range: 20.5–59.6%) of those not taking metformin had adenoma. In our meta‐analysis, metformin use reduced the risk of adenoma (pooled OR = 0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.63–0.92, I2 = 60%). Upon subgroup analyses, metformin use tended to reduce risk of adenoma in a high‐risk population consisting of patients with a history of colorectal neoplasia (CRN) (pooled OR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.34–1.10, I2 = 79%). In addition, metformin reduced the risk of adenoma in a high‐risk population consisting of patients with diabetes mellitus (pooled OR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.62–0.91, I2 = 57%).

Conclusion

Metformin use seemed to be associated with a reduced risk of colorectal adenoma, especially in high‐risk populations consisting of patients with diabetes mellitus or a history of CRN, although statistical power was not achieved in patients with a history of CRN.
Endoscopic features and genetic background of inflammatory bowel disease complicated with Takayasu arteritis
Authors: Akiyama Shintaro , Fujii Toshimitsu , Matsuoka Katsuyoshi , Yusuke Ebana , Negi Mariko , Takenaka Kento , Nagahori Masakazu , Ohtsuka Kazuo , Isobe Mitsuaki , Watanabe Mamoru
Published: November 2016

Background and Aim

Takayasu arteritis (TA) is occasionally complicated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This study assessed the endoscopic and genetic features of IBD complicated with TA (IBD‐TA).

Methods

This study retrospectively reviewed the clinical charts of 142 TA patients (14 men and 128 women; median age 48.5 years [range, 18–97 years]). Human lymphocyte antigen (HLA) types and a single‐nucleotide polymorphism rs6871626 in the IL12B gene were assessed in 101 and 81 patients with TA, respectively.

Results

Inflammatory bowel disease was diagnosed in 13 (9.2%) of the 142 patients. The endoscopic features of IBD‐TA at initial diagnosis (n = 8) showed discontinuous and focal mucosal inflammations (n = 7, 87.5%), and only one case was diagnosed as ulcerative colitis (UC) at the first colonoscopy. In the genetic comparison of HLA class I between TA patients with IBD and those without IBD, HLA‐B*52:01 and C*12:02 were more frequent in the IBD‐TA group (P = 0.001 and P = 0.009, respectively). Meanwhile, HLA‐DRB‐1*15:02, DQA‐1*01:03, DQB‐1*06:01, and DPB‐1*09:01 as HLA class II were positively associated with IBD‐TA (P = 0.004, P = 0.019, P = 0.019, and P = 0.002, respectively). IL12B rs6871626 did not show an association with IBD‐TA compared with that with TA without IBD.

Conclusions

The endoscopic findings of IBD‐TA at initial diagnosis were atypical for UC or Crohn's disease. IBD‐TA possessed the HLA haplotype, which had a susceptible effect on UC.
A Cluster of Group A Streptococcal Infections in a Skilled Nursing Facility—the Potential Role of Healthcare Worker Presenteeism
Authors: Kobayashi Miwako , Lyman Meghan M. , Francois Watkins Louise K. , Toews Karrie‐Ann , Bullard Leon , Radcliffe Rachel A. , Beall Bernard , Langley Gayle , Beneden Chris Van , Stone Nimalie D.
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To determine the extent of a group A streptococcus (GAS) cluster (2 residents with invasive GAS (invasive case‐patients), 2 carriers) caused by a single strain (T antigen type 2 and M protein gene subtype 2.0 (T2, emm 2.0)), evaluate factors contributing to transmission, and provide recommendations for disease control.

Design

Cross‐sectional analysis and retrospective review.

Setting

Skilled nursing facility (SNF).

Participants

SNF residents and staff.

Measurements

The initial cluster was identified through laboratory notification and screening of SNF residents with wounds. Laboratory and SNF administrative records were subsequently reviewed to identify additional residents with GAS, oropharyngeal and wound (if present) swabs were collected from SNF staff and residents to examine GAS colonization, staff were surveyed to assess infection control practices and risk factors for GAS colonization, epidemiologic links between case‐patients and persons colonized with GAS were determined, and facility infection control practices were assessed.

Results

No additional invasive case‐patients were identified. Oropharyngeal swabs obtained from all 167 SNF residents were negative; one wound swab grew GAS that was the same as the outbreak strain (T2, emm 2.0). The outbreak strain was not identified in any of the 162 staff members. One of six staff members diagnosed with GAS pharyngitis worked while ill and had direct contact with invasive case‐patients within a few weeks before their onset of symptoms. Additional minor breaches in infection control were noted.

Conclusion

Sick healthcare workers may have introduced GAS into the SNF, with propagation by infection control lapses. “Presenteeism,” or working while ill, may introduce and transmit GAS to vulnerable in SNF populations. Identification of an invasive GAS case‐patient should trigger a prompt response by facilities to prevent further transmission and workplace culture, and policies should be in place to discourage presenteeism in healthcare settings.
Effects of Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension diet on androgens, antioxidant status and body composition in overweight and obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Azadi‐Yazdi M. , Karimi‐Zarchi M. , Salehi‐Abargouei A. , Fallahzadeh H. , Nadjarzadeh A.
Published: November 2016

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disease in reproductive age women. The present study aimed to determine the effects of Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet on reproductive hormones, plasma total antioxidant status and anthropometric indices in overweight and obese PCOS women.

Methods

In this randomised controlled clinical trial, 60 women with PCOS were randomly assigned to one of two diets with energy restriction: the DASH diet and a control diet. The DASH and control diets consisted of 50–55% carbohydrate, 15–20% protein and 25–30% total fat. The DASH diet was designed to be rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and low‐fat dairy products, as well as low in saturated fats, cholesterol, refined grains and sweets. In the present study, the anthropometric indices, body composition, total testosterone, androstenedione, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), free androgen index and 2,2′‐diphenyl‐1‐picryylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity were measured before and after 3 months.

Results

The consumption of DASH diet compared to the control diet was associated with a significant reduction in weight [−5.78 (1.91) kg versus −4.34 (2.87) kg, P = 0.032], body mass index (BMI) [−2.29 (0.15) kg m–2 versus −1.69 (0.20) kg m–2, P = 0.02], fat mass [−3.23(1.66) kg versus −2.13 (1.26) kg, P = 0.008] and serum androstenedione [−1.75 (1.39) ng mL–1 versus −1.02 (0.72) ng mL–1, P‐value = 0.019]. Increased concentrations of SHBG [28.80 (21.71) versus 11.66(18.82) nmol L–1, P = 0.003) and DPPH scavenging activity [30.23% (19.09) versus 12.97% (25.12) were also found in the DASH group.

Conclusions

The DASH diet could improve weight loss, BMI and fat mass. Furthermore, it could result in a significant reduction in serum androstenedione and a significant increase in antioxidant status and SHBG.
An Institutional Configurational Approach to Cross‐National Diversity in Corporate Governance
Authors: Haxhi Ilir , Aguilera Ruth V.
Published: November 2016

Corporate governance (CG) research has typically been studied from rather disparate disciplinary approaches, thereby offering myopic and often conflicting rationales. We develop an institutional configurational approach to integrate this ‘siloed’ field and explain CG patterns around the world. To do so, we draw on an inductive, theory‐building methodology based on fuzzy‐set logic to uncover the configurations across institutional actor‐centred domains and their impact on CG patterns. Empirically, we explore the necessary and sufficient causal conditions leading to different features of codes of good governance across 32 OECD countries. We generate propositions linking configurational institutional domains to code features. Our results show that a single institutional domain by itself is not sufficient to explain CG outcomes, and that these domains need to be considered in conjunction, leading, in turn, to the identification of four distinct configurational governance prototypes. Our study offers a comprehensive account of drivers of cross‐national differences in CG and yields useful insights for managing and regulating governance.
Diffusion Tensor Imaging‐Defined Sulcal Enlargement Is Related to Cognitive Impairment in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Keser Zafer , Hasan Khader M. , Mwangi Benson , Gabr Refaat E. , Nelson Flavia M.
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain can be compartmentalized into two main divisions: ventricular CSF and subarachnoid space (sulcal CSF). Changes in CSF volumetry are seen in many neurological conditions including multiple sclerosis (MS) and found to correlate with clinical outcomes. We aimed to test the relation between the volumetry of sulcal and ventricular CSF and cognitive impairment (CI) based on the minimal assessment of cognitive function in MS (MACFIMS) in patients with MS.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Forty‐six patients with MS underwent the MACFIMS battery and classified as nonimpaired (MSNI) (n = 10) and cognitively impaired (MSCI) (n = 30) and borderline (MSBD) MS patients (n = 6). Volumes of sulcal and ventricular CSF along with global gray and white matter volumes and cortical thickness were obtained by diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and T1‐weighted (T1w)‐based segmentation. These measures were statistically analyzed for associations with CI after adjusting for the age, education in years, lesion load, and disease duration.

RESULTS

Sulcal CSF showed the strongest correlation with CI (r = .51, P = .001) in our cohort, whereas ventricular CSF (P = .28, P = .19) along with cortical thickness and gray matter volume failed to show a significant correlation. Group analyses unadjusted for multiple comparisons showed significant difference in volumes of sulcal CSF and ventricular CSF between MSNI and MSCI groups (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Sulcal CSF correlates with CI in patients with MS, possibly explained by cortical atrophy. DTI/T1w‐based sulcal CSF segmentation method might be used as an indirect and simple neuroimaging marker to monitor CI in MS patients.
A clinicopathological study of the oral lesions of Cowden disease
Authors: Hammerschmidt Mariana , Lourenço Silvia Vanessa , Nico Marcello Menta Simonsen
Published: November 2016

Background

Cowden disease is a multisystemic cancer predisposition disorder, inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. Cutaneous and visceral lesions are either malignant tumours or are believed to represent hamartomatous growths. Mucocutaneous lesions are present on almost 100% of affected individuals. Nonetheless, some authors consider that the mucocutaneous manifestations of Cowden disease are, in reality, viral warts at distinct steps of evolution. There are only a few studies regarding the oral manifestations of Cowden disease.

Objectives

To study the oral manifestations of Cowden disease in nine patients clinically and histopathologically.

Methods

The oral mucosal aspects of nine patients with clinical diagnosis of Cowden disease were photographed, and biopsies were taken from typical lesions.

Results

All biopsied lesions depicted histopathological aspects suggestive of viral warts at distinct steps of development: incipient, well established and in regression.

Conclusion

Our findings seem to reinforce the poorly understood hypothesis that the mucocutaneous manifestations of Cowden disease are in reality viral warts. Additional studies are needed to explain why a syndrome caused by the mutation of a tumour suppression gene may cause propensity to warts.
The European Court of Human Rights, Amicus Curiae, and Violence against Women
Authors: Cichowski Rachel A.
Published: November 2016

Are international courts and advocacy group legal mobilization shaping human rights politics? This question poses a theoretical and empirical challenge to state dominated understandings of international litigation. This article theorizes the interaction between advocacy groups and the European Court of Human Rights and the role this participation plays in the enforcement and development of human rights. The analyses examine institutional factors shaping broad trends in mobilization complemented by two in depth studies examining a single mode of participation, amicus curiae and a single area of law, violence against women. The data identify the critical role standing rules, court review powers and group expertise play in transnational rights mobilization and development. The findings bring into question dominant understandings of international law and contribute to a more complex understanding of law in a global age where international courts and societal actors are shaping the direction of rights protection.
Thermophysical properties of Almahata Sitta meteorites (asteroid 2008 TC3) for high‐fidelity entry modeling
Authors: Loehle Stefan , Jenniskens Peter , Böhrk Hannah , Bauer Thomas , Elsäβer Henning , Sears Derek W. , Zolensky Michael E. , Shaddad Muawia H.
Published: November 2016

Asteroid 2008 TC3 was characterized in a unique manner prior to impacting Earth's atmosphere, making its October 7, 2008, impact a suitable field test for or validating the application of high‐fidelity re‐entry modeling to asteroid entry. The accurate modeling of the behavior of 2008 TC3 during its entry in Earth's atmosphere requires detailed information about the thermophysical properties of the asteroid's meteoritic materials at temperatures ranging from room temperature up to the point of ablation (T ~ 1400 K). Here, we present measurements of the thermophysical properties up to these temperatures (in a 1 atm. pressure of argon) for two samples of the Almahata Sitta meteorites from asteroid 2008 TC3: a thick flat‐faced ureilite suitably shaped for emissivity measurements and a thin flat‐faced EL6 enstatite chondrite suitable for diffusivity measurements. Heat capacity was determined from the elemental composition and density from a 3‐D laser scan of the sample. We find that the thermal conductivity of the enstatite chondrite material decreases more gradually as a function of temperature than expected, while the emissivity of the ureilitic material decreases at a rate of 9.5 × 10−5 K−1 above 770 K. The entry scenario is the result of the actual flight path being the boundary to the load the meteorite will be affected with when entering. An accurate heat load prediction depends on the thermophysical properties. Finally, based on these data, the breakup can be calculated accurately leading to a risk assessment for ground damage.
A Puzzle about Knowing Conditionals
Authors: Rothschild Daniel , Spectre Levi
Published: November 2016

We present a puzzle about knowledge, probability and conditionals. We show that in certain cases some basic and plausible principles governing our reasoning come into conflict. In particular, we show that there is a simple argument that a person may be in a position to know a conditional the consequent of which has a low probability conditional on its antecedent, contra Adams’ Thesis. We suggest that the puzzle motivates a very strong restriction on the inference of a conditional from a disjunction.
A dominant‐negative actin mutation alters corolla tube width and pollinator visitation in Mimulus lewisii
Authors: Ding Baoqing , Mou Fengjuan , Sun Wei , Chen Shilin , Peng Foen , Bradshaw Harvey D. , Yuan Yao‐Wu
Published: November 2016

A third of all angiosperm species produce flowers with petals fused into a corolla tube. The various elaborations of corolla tube attributes, such as length, width and curvature, have enabled plants to exploit many specialized pollinator groups. These elaborations often differ dramatically among closely related species, contributing to pollinator shift and pollinator‐mediated reproductive isolation and speciation. However, very little is known about the genetic and developmental control of these corolla tube attributes.

Here we report the characterization of a semi‐dominant mutant in the monkeyflower species Mimulus lewisii, with a substantial decrease in corolla tube width but no change in tube length. This morphological alteration leads to a ˜ 70% decrease in bumblebee visitation rate for the homozygous mutant compared to the wild‐type.

Through bulk segregant analysis and transgenic experiment, we show that the mutant phenotype is caused by a dominant‐negative mutation in an actin gene. This mutation decreases epidermal cell width but not length, and probably also reduces the number of lateral cell divisions.

These results suggest a surprising potential role for a ‘housekeeping’ gene in fine‐tuning the development of an ecologically important floral trait.
Weak coordination between leaf structure and function among closely related tomato species
Authors: Muir Christopher D. , Conesa Miquel À. , Roldán Emilio J. , Molins Arántzazu , Galmés Jeroni
Published: November 2016

Theory predicts that natural selection should favor coordination between leaf physiology, biochemistry and anatomical structure along a functional trait spectrum from fast, resource‐acquisitive syndromes to slow, resource‐conservative syndromes. However, the coordination hypothesis has rarely been tested at a phylogenetic scale most relevant for understanding rapid adaptation in the recent past or for the prediction of evolutionary trajectories in response to climate change.

We used a common garden to examine genetically based coordination between leaf traits across 19 wild and cultivated tomato taxa.

We found weak integration between leaf structure (e.g. leaf mass per area) and physiological function (photosynthetic rate, biochemical capacity and CO2 diffusion), even though all were arrayed in the predicted direction along a ‘fast–slow’ spectrum.

This suggests considerable scope for unique trait combinations to evolve in response to new environments or in crop breeding. In particular, we found that partially independent variation in stomatal and mesophyll conductance may allow a plant to improve water‐use efficiency without necessarily sacrificing maximum photosynthetic rates. Our study does not imply that functional trait spectra, such as the leaf economics spectrum, are unimportant, but that many important axes of variation within a taxonomic group may be unique and not generalizable to other taxa.
Relationships between soil fungal and woody plant assemblages differ between ridge and valley habitats in a subtropical mountain forest
Authors: Gao Cheng , Shi Nan‐Nan , Chen Liang , Ji Niu‐Niu , Wu Bin‐Wei , Wang Yong‐Long , Xu Ying , Zheng Yong , Mi Xiang‐Cheng , Ma Ke‐Ping , Guo Liang‐Dong
Published: November 2016

Elucidating interactions of above‐ground and below‐ground communities in different habitat types is essential for understanding biodiversity maintenance and ecosystem functioning.

Using 454 pyrosequencing of ITS2 sequences we examined the relationship between subtropical mountain forest soil fungal communities, abiotic conditions, and plant communities using correlation and partial models.

Ridge and valley habitats with differing fungal communities were delineated. Total, saprotrophic and pathogenic fungal richness were significantly correlated with plant species richness and/or soil nutrients and moisture in the ridge habitat, but with habitat convexity or basal area of Castanopsis eyrei in the valley habitat. Ectomycorrhizal (EM) fungal richness was significantly correlated with basal area of C. eyrei and total EM plants in the ridge and valley habitats, respectively. Total, saprotrophic, pathogenic and EM fungal compositions were significantly correlated with plant species composition and geographic distance in the ridge habitat, but with various combinations of plant species composition, plant species richness, soil C : N ratio and pH or no variables in the valley habitat.

Our findings suggest that mechanisms influencing soil fungal diversity and community composition differ between ridge and valley habitats, and relationships between fungal and woody plant assemblages depend on habitat types in the subtropical forest ecosystem.
Development and molecular cytogenetic identification of a new wheat–Leymus mollis Lm#6Ns disomic addition line
Authors: Yang Xiaofei , Wang Changyou , Li Xin , Tian Zengrong , Chen Chunhuan , Wang Yajuan , Ji Wanquan
Published: November 2016

We developed a new disomic addition line M11028‐1‐1‐5 (2n = 44 = 21” + 1”) from a cross between wheat cv. ‘7182’ and octoploid Tritileymus M47 (2n = 8x = 56, AABBDDNsNs). Cytological observations demonstrated that M11028‐1‐1‐5 contained 44 chromosomes and formed 22 bivalents during meiotic metaphase I. The genomic in situ hybridization (GISH) investigations showed this line contained 42 wheat chromosomes and a pair of L. mollis chromosomes. SSR, EST and PCR‐based landmark unique gene (PLUG) markers were screened to determine the homoeologous relationships of the introduced L. mollis chromosomes in wheat background. Nine markers, i.e. Xwmc256, Xgpw312, Swes123, CD452568, BF483643, BQ169205, TNAC1748, TNAC1751 and TNAC1752, all of which were located on the homoeologous group 6 chromosomes of common wheat, amplified bands unique to L. mollis in M11028‐1‐1‐5. Gliadin analysis also confirmed that the added chromosomes in M11028‐1‐1‐5 were correlated with the sixth group chromosome. This indicated that M11028‐1‐1‐5 contained a pair of introduced L. mollis chromosome belonging to homoeologous group 6, which we designated it as Lm#6Ns disomic addition line. This is the first report of a common wheat–L. mollis disomic addition line.
Extended Preferences and Interpersonal Comparisons of Well‐being
Authors: Greaves Hilary , Lederman Harvey
Published: November 2016

An important objection to preference‐satisfaction theories of well‐being is that these theories cannot make sense of interpersonal comparisons of well‐being. A tradition dating back to Harsanyi () attempts to respond to this objection by appeal to so‐called extended preferences: very roughly, preferences over situations whose description includes agents’ preferences. This paper examines the prospects for defending the preference‐satisfaction theory via this extended preferences program. We argue that making conceptual sense of extended preferences is less problematic than others have supposed, but that even so extended preferences do not provide a promising way for the preference satisfaction theorist to make interpersonal well‐being comparisons. Our main objection takes the form of a trilemma: depending on how the theory based on extended preferences is developed, either (a) the result will be inconsistent with ordinary preference‐satisfaction theory, or (b) it will fail to recover sufficiently rich interpersonal well‐being comparisons, or (c) it will take on a number of other arguably odd and undesirable commitments.
The Predicative Predicament
Authors: Schoubye Anders J.
Published: November 2016

The‐Predicativism is the view that names are count nouns. For example, the meaning of the name ‘Louise’ is roughly the property of being called Louise. Moreover, proponents of this view maintain that names that are ostensibly in argument position of a predicate are covert definite descriptions. In recent years, The‐Predicativism has acquired a number of new supporters, mainly Elbourne (), Matushansky (), and Fara (). And while it was pointed out by Kripke () that these kinds of views generally struggle with capturing the rigidity of proper names, these new views are alleged to solve this problem. In this paper I argue that the more recent versions of the view continue to struggle. In particular, I show that the views fail to provide an explanatory and/or empirically adequate analysis of rigidity. My discussions of these views are then supplemented with a general diagnosis of the problem and an explanation of why it is unlikely to be solved by The‐Predicativism.
Perceived control increases the reward positivity and stimulus preceding negativity
Authors: Mühlberger Christina , Angus Douglas Jozef , Jonas Eva , Harmon‐Jones Cindy , Harmon‐Jones Eddie
Published: November 2016

The reward positivity (RewP) and the stimulus preceding negativity (SPN), two ERPs associated with reward delivery and reward anticipation, are modulated by motivational intensity. Motivational intensity is the effort organisms would make to exert behaviors, and it varies with the difficulty of exerting that behavior. If a task is perceived as impossible, which means that one does not have control over own outcomes, motivational intensity is low. In the current study, we tested the prediction that perceiving control over one's outcomes increases both the RewP to feedback and the SPN prior to feedback compared to perceiving no control. We also examined whether P300 and LPP amplitudes to reward and nonreward images were similarly modulated. Twenty‐five female participants completed a gambling task in which correct choices were followed by pictures of attractive men and incorrect choices were followed by pictures of rocks. To manipulate perceived control, participants were told that, in one block of trials, they could learn a mouse‐click rule in order to see only pictures of men (high perceived control condition), while in the other block, the pictures would appear randomly (low perceived control condition). However, in both conditions, feedback appeared randomly. Although the RewP was elicited in both blocks, the RewP and SPN were higher in the high perceived control condition (i.e., when participants thought that they could influence their outcomes). Perceived control did not modulate the P300 and LPP to pictures. The results suggest that approach motivation and its intensity modulate the processing of performance feedback.
Histone deacetylase 2 is decreased in peripheral blood pro‐inflammatory CD8+ T and NKT‐like lymphocytes following lung transplant
Authors: Hodge Greg , Hodge Sandra , Holmes‐Liew Chien‐Li , Reynolds Paul N. , Holmes Mark
Published: November 2016

Background and objective

Immunosuppression therapy following lung transplantation fails to prevent chronic rejection in many patients, which is associated with lack of suppression of cytotoxic mediators and pro‐inflammatory cytokines in peripheral blood T and natural killer T (NKT)‐like cells. Histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs) upregulate/downregulate pro‐inflammatory gene expression, respectively; however, differences in the activity of these enzymes following lung transplant are unknown. We hypothesized decreased HDAC2 expression and increased HAT expression in pro‐inflammatory lymphocytes following lung transplant.

Methods

Blood was collected from 18 stable lung transplant patients and 10 healthy age‐matched controls. Intracellular pro‐inflammatory cytokines and HAT/HDAC2 expression were determined in lymphocyte subsets following culture using flow cytometry.

Results

A loss of HDAC2 in cluster of differentiation (CD) 8+ T and NKT‐like cells in transplant patients compared with controls was noted (CD8+ T: 28 ± 10 (45 ± 10), CD8+NKT‐like: 30 ± 13 (54 ± 16) (mean ± SD transplant) (control)). Loss of HDAC2 was associated with an increased percentage of CD8+ T and NKT‐like cells expressing perforin, granzyme b, interferon gamma (IFN‐γ) and TNF‐α (no change in HAT expression in any lymphocyte subset). There was a negative correlation between loss of HDAC2 expression by CD8+ T cells with cumulative dose of prednisolone and time post‐transplant. Treatment with 10 mg/L theophylline + 1 µmol/L prednisolone or 2.5 ng/mL cyclosporine A synergistically upregulated HDAC2 and inhibited IFN‐γ and TNF‐α production by CD8+ T and NKT‐like lymphocytes.

Conclusion

HDAC2 is decreased in CD8+ T and NKT‐like pro‐inflammatory lymphocytes following lung transplant. Treatment options that increase HDAC2 may improve graft survival.
Evaluating Patterns of Income Growth when Status Matters: A Robust Approach
Authors: Palmisano Flaviana
Published: November 2016

This paper addresses the problem of ranking growth episodes from a microeconomic perspective. While most of the existing criteria, framed in the pro‐poor growth tradition, are either based on anonymous individuals or are used to identify them on the basis of their status in the initial period, this paper proposes new criteria to evaluate growth, which are robust to the choice of the reference period used to identify individuals. Suitable dominance conditions that can be used to rank alternative growth processes are derived by means of an axiomatic approach. Moreover, the theoretical results are used to rank the different growth episodes that have taken place in the past decade in Australia, Germany, Korea, Switzerland, and the U.S.
Take‐Up of Social Assistance Benefits: The Case of the French Homeless
Authors: Chareyron Sylvain , Domingues Patrick
Published: November 2016

A considerable number of studies have been conducted to measure and analyze the phenomenon of the non‐take‐up of social assistance. However, the homeless portion of this population has long remained outside the scope of this research, so that little is known about their non‐take‐up behavior. In this paper, we focus on this population using a French national survey and we derive measures for the non‐take‐up of French basic income support. Our findings indicate that there is a substantial rate of non‐take‐up among the homeless, but that this rate is lower than that for the general population: approximately 18% of eligible homeless persons do not claim benefits compared to 35% of the general population. Using a large set of variables, we investigate the determinants of non‐take‐up. We show that although some of these determinants are shared with the general population, as identified in the literature, the homeless population exhibits some particularities. Furthermore, our results also suggest that the poorest of the homeless have a larger non‐take‐up rate than other homeless.