bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plant oil bioconversion into increase biological activity through lipases derived from wastes
Authors: Francisco Valesca Cristiane Benelli , Okino‐Delgado Clarissa Hamaio , Zanutto Elgui Mirella R. , Fernandes Célio Junior da Costa , Facanali Roselaine , da Silva Rodrigo Augusto , Zambuzzi Willian Fernando , Marques Márcia Ortiz Mayo , Fleuri Luciana Francisco
Published: October 2018

The aim of this study was to show that abundant and inexpensive plant oils can be biotransformed to increase biological activity (antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxicity) through hydrolysis reaction catalysed by lipases. We tested homemade and commercial lipases through the biotransformation of nine different plant oils in forty different combinations. First, the chemical composition of the samples was investigated. Thereafter, biological tests were conducted to assess the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of the sampled biotransformation products, as well as analyzed their influence on the viability of healthy and cancer cells. Summarising, sunflower, corn and olive oils modified by orange waste‐obtained lipases presented the most promising results, reaching up to 90% of antioxidant activity increase and significant growth inhibition of bacteria colonies belonging to genera Escherichia, Listeria, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas and Salmonella. In addition, those compounds affected human oral squamous carcinoma cells. The bioconversion of plant oils through lipases improves their biological properties and might be an option for biotechnological application.
A comparison of global coagulation assays between normal controls and patients with thrombocytopenia
Authors: Lim Hui Yin , Leung Patrick , Manitta Vanessa , Nandurkar Harshal , Ho Prahlad
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Some patients with thrombocytopenia may be at risk of bleeding although quantitative platelet count is not always a sufficient predictive factor. Global coagulation assays such as thromboelastography (TEG®), calibrated automated thrombogram (CAT) and overall haemostatic potential (OHP) may provide a better assessment of an individual's haemostatic profile.

Methods

Blood samples were collected from thrombocytopenic patients. TEG® was performed on citrated whole blood, while CAT and OHP were performed on platelet‐poor plasma. Results were compared to our previously collected normal controls.

Results

Fifty‐eight participants (24 immune thrombocytopenia, 34 chemotherapy/malignancy‐related) with mean age of 57.5 years were recruited. Compared to normal controls, thrombocytopenic participants had comparable maximum amplitude but reduced clot lysis (0.0% vs 0.6%; P < 0.001) on TEG® with reduced endogenous thrombin potential on CAT (1252.2 vs 1353.0 nmol/L/min; P = 0.040). No differences were seen in the OHP parameters. TEG® showed significant difference between marked and mild thrombocytopenia groups with minimal differences seen on CAT and OHP. Those with marked thrombocytopenia showed reduced maximum amplitude (47.2 vs 57.8 mm; P = 0.002) as expected while participants with mild thrombocytopenia (platelet count 100‐150 × 109/L) paradoxically demonstrated increased maximum amplitude (66.4 vs 57.8 mm; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Global coagulation assays, particularly TEG®, can detect subtle differences in coagulation in thrombocytopenic patients. While patients with marked thrombocytopenia showed reduced maximum amplitude, patients with mild thrombocytopenia appear to paradoxically show increased maximum amplitude, suggesting compensatory activity within the coagulation pathway which may in part explain why not all thrombocytopenic patients have bleeding complications.
Mentoring: Resource for lowering job stress or just another headache?
Authors: O'Brien Kimberly E. , Roach Krystal N. , Mann Kyle J.
Published: October 2018

Previous research has examined the benefits that protégés’ (and to a lesser extent, mentors and organizations) receive from mentoring. Surprisingly, however, there has been a lack of research on the potential negative effects of mentoring on the mentor and the protégé. As per the stressor–strain model, mentors might help relieve job stress by providing protégés with emotional support or teaching stress management skills. Conversely, mentoring might cause strain by increasing the workload for protégés and mentors. In the current evaluation of the literature, we address whether mentoring is better described as causing or mitigating job stress. Overall, studies showed that for protégés, mentoring related to less role ambiguity and role conflict, but mixed findings regarding work–family conflict and subjective stress. There is an inadequate number of studies to address other mentoring–stress relationships. In general, this body of research is scanty but may have important practical implications regarding employee health. Thus, further exploration of the relationship between mentoring and stress, particularly for the mentor, is encouraged. Toward this goal, the current paper provides explicit research questions that can be addressed as we continue to aim toward practical implications.
Nitrogen response models for winter cereals grown for forage
Authors: Lyons Sarah E. , Tang Zhehan , Booth James , Ketterings Quirine M.
Published: October 2018

Forage double cropping can increase production, reduce erosion risk and improve soil health. Farmer experience in the north‐eastern USA shows that winter cereals can, in 3–4 weeks (Feekes 9 harvest), produce high quality forage given sufficient N at dormancy break. Here, we evaluate crop response models to determine the most economic rate of N (MERN) for forage winter cereals. Sixty‐three on‐farm N‐rate trials (0, 34, 67, 101, 135 kg N/ha) were conducted in New York from 2013 to 2016. Trials were divided into four categories: (a) no yield response to N (group 1; 20 trials); (b) yield plateau exceeded the highest N rate (group 2; one trial); (c) the MERN was below the lowest N rate (group 3; seven trials) and (d) all other N‐responsive trials (group 4; 35 trials). For group 4, three statistical models were compared (quadratic plateau, exponential and square root plateau). Statistical, environmental and economic criteria showed that the quadratic plateau fits the data best and had the most stable predictions across scenarios. The four‐category analysis is effective in determining MERNs of individual trials, and the quadratic plateau is best for determining forage winter cereal MERNs and yields at MERNs for individual trials in the north‐eastern USA.
Phonon behaviors and dielectric functions in Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3‐based ceramics by Raman scattering and optical ellipsometry
Authors: Jiao Shan , Chen Fangfang , Zhang Yi , Hu Zhigao , Duan Zhihua , Wang Feifei , Sun Dazhi
Published: October 2018

The dielectric functions and lattice vibrations of (0.935‐x)Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3‐0.065BaTiO3‐xSrTiO3 (BNBSTx) ceramics were investigated by temperature‐dependent spectroscopic ellipsometry and Raman scattering. Based on the analysis of dielectric functions with the Tauc‐Lorentz dispersion model, it was found that the band gap and the temperature coefficient increased with the addition of SrTiO3. Moreover, the frequency, intensity and/or full width at half maximum of phonon modes related to Bi and Ti‐localized phonon modes exhibited local maximum/minimum around the depolarization temperature and permittivity‐maximum temperature, which indicated the ongoing structural transformation. In addition, the Sr introduction affected the TiO6 tilting and the off‐center displacement of Ti4+. These results seem to be significant for the enhanced response functions with the addition of SrTiO3 in BNBSTx ceramics.
Gene–environment correlations in parental emotional warmth and intolerance: genome‐wide analysis over two generations of the Young Finns Study
Authors: Dobewall Henrik , Savelieva Kateryna , Seppälä Ilkka , Knafo‐Noam Ariel , Hakulinen Christian , Elovainio Marko , Keltikangas‐Järvinen Liisa , Pulkki‐Råback Laura , Raitakari Olli T. , Lehtimäki Terho , Hintsanen Mirka
Published: October 2018

Background

Genomic analysis of the child might offer new potential to illuminate human parenting. We examined whether offspring (G2) genome‐wide genotype variation (SNPs) is associated with their mother's (G1) emotional warmth and intolerance, indicating a gene–environment correlation. If this association is stronger than between G2′s genes and their emotional warmth and intolerance toward their own children, then this would indicate the presence of an evocative gene–environment correlation. To further understand how G1 mother's parenting has been evoked by genetically influenced characteristics of the child (G2), we examined whether child (G2) temperament partially accounted for the association between offspring genes and parental responses.

Methods

Participants were from the Young Finns Study. G1 mothers (N = 2,349; mean age 39 years) self‐reported the emotional warmth and intolerance toward G2 in 1980 when the participants were from 3 to 18 years old. G2 participants answered the same parenting scales in 2007/2012 (N = 1,378; mean age = 38 years in 2007; 59% female) when their children were on average 11 years old. Offspring temperament traits were self‐reported in 1992 (G2 age range 15–30 years). Estimation of the phenotypic variance explained by the SNPs of G2 was done by genome‐wide complex trait analysis with restricted maximum likelihood (GCTA‐GREML).

Results

Results showed that the SNPs of a child (G2) explained 22.6% of the phenotypic variance of maternal intolerance (G1; p‐value = .039). G2 temperament trait negative emotionality explained only 2.4% points of this association. G2 genes did not explain G1 emotional warmth or G2′s own emotional warmth and intolerance. However, further analyses of a combined measure of both G1 parenting scales found genetic effects. Parent or child gender did not moderate the observed associations.

Conclusions

Presented genome‐wide evidence is pointing to the important role a child plays in affecting and shaping his/her family environment, though the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.
Application of a combined treatment using natural antimicrobials and modified atmosphere packaging to enhance safety, quality, and shelf‐life of fresh‐cut beet leaves
Authors: Fernández M. V. , Jagus R. J. , Agüero M. V.
Published: October 2018

Fresh‐cut horticultural products have a very limited shelf‐life and have been associated with several foodborne illnesses. In previous studies, natural antimicrobials green tea (GTE) and nisin have shown great effect on microbial control, while modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) with modified initial atmosphere (MIA) was great for nutritional preservation. The aim of this study was to select an adequate combination of those treatments to enhance safety, quality, and shelf‐life of fresh‐cut beet leaves. Results shows synergistic behavior with the combination of 2.5% GTE, 500 UI/g nisin and MAP with MIA for native microbiota, Listeria, and Escherichia coli control. During refrigerated storage, combined treatment showed a significant reduction in microbial counts and generate a “fortification” increasing greatly its total polyphenols content and antioxidant capacity. While control samples presented a shelf‐life of less than 7 days, an adequate combination of technologies improved greatly the overall quality and prolonged shelf‐life to at least 14 days.

Practical applications

In the context of a growing demand for healthy, nutritious, minimally processed, free of additives, and environmentally friendly products, this study proposes the use of the modified atmospheres packaging technology in combination with the application of natural antimicrobials to improve overall quality and enhance safety of minimally processed vegetable products. The combination of these two technologies for the preservation of minimally processed beet leaves has proven to be an alternative that not only allows microbiological control of the product, but also causes a significant improvement in nutritional and sensory quality. The results presented in this study have a clear practical application in the minimally processed vegetable industries. Indeed, developments as the one presented in this research are needed by the industry to reach the demanding requirements of consumers as well as the new regulatory requirements and to increase the added value of this kind of products.
Combination effect of Alpinia malaccensis and Terminalia catappa extract for controlling foodborne pathogens and spoilage bacteria on ready to cook vacuum packed raw chicken meat
Authors: Somarathna Thikshani , Ranaweera K. K. D. S. , Premakumara G. A. S. , Weerakkody Nimsha S.
Published: October 2018

The combined antibacterial activity of Alpinia malaccensis and Terminalia catappa, was tested for Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus and spoilage bacteria in vacuum packed ready‐to‐cook (RTC) chicken. The 10 g of chicken pieces were inoculated with each bacterium and marinated with 0.5 ml of the mixture of 5 mg/ml A. malaccensis and 20 mg/ml T. catappa. The chicken was vacuum packed after adding 1 ml extract mixture and stored at 4 or 8 °C for 12 days. Every three‐day intervals microbial count, lipid oxidation, pH, and the color was determined. Combination of plant extracts significantly (p < .05) inhibited the growth of S. aureus bacteria with 1.80, 2.13, 2.36, and 2.97 log CFU/g reduction over 3, 6, 9, and 12 days stored at 8 °C. Similarly, L. monocytogenes was significantly (p < .05) inhibited at 6, 9, 12 days with 1.22, 1.60, and 1.55 log CFU/g reduction compared to control at 4 °C. Lipid oxidation significantly reduced (p < .05) in treated chicken 1.39 MDA mg/kg and 2.43 MDA mg/kg at day 12 at 4 and 8 °C, respectively. Total plate count of treated chicken showed 6.59 ± 0.10 log CFU/g at 6 days of storage at 4 °C and 6.66 ± 0.36 CFU/g during 9 days of storage at 8 °C allowing safe for human consumption.

Practical applications

The shelf‐life of RTC marinated vacuum packed fresh chicken samples stored at 4 and 8 °C were significantly extended for 6 and 9 days, respectively. Plant extracts combination showed a significant inhibition of L. monocytogenes or S. aureus and spoilage bacteria and reduced lipid oxidation. Therefore, two plants extract combinations act as antimicrobials and antioxidants which could stabilize lipid oxidation, color, and microbial growth thus extending the shelf‐life of ready to cook fresh chicken meat products. Therefore, marinated RTC chicken is economically important for the food industry.
Prognosis of 732 ursodeoxycholic acid‐treated patients with primary biliary cholangitis: A single center follow‐up study from China
Authors: Chen Sha , Duan Weijia , Li Min , Li Shuxiang , Lv Tingting , Tian Qiuju , Wang Qianyi , Wu Xiaoning , Zhao Xinyan , Wang Xiaoming , Wang Yu , Kong Yuanyuan , Ma Hong , Ou Xiaojuan , You Hong , Jia Jidong
Published: October 2018

Background and Aim

The impact of male sex and past hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection on survival of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) are issues at discussion. The aim of the present study was to identify risk factors for transplant‐free survival (TRS) in Chinese PBC patients who received ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), with special focus on the impact of male sex and past HBV infection.

Methods

We followed up PBC patients who received UDCA at our institute between January 2000 and December 2017 until their death, liver transplantation, or censored on April 1, 2018, by interview and review of medical records. We used Cox proportional hazards model and Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

Out of 976 PBC patients, 732 UDCA‐treated patients (female : male = 6.2:1) with required clinical and laboratory data were enrolled in this study. The median follow‐up period were 4.8 years (interquartile range: 2.8–7.1 years). The overall 5‐, 10‐, and 15‐year TRS rates were 86.7% (95% CI: 83.8–88.1), 71.1% (95% CI: 65.0–77.2), and 59.2% (95% CI: 44.5–73.9), respectively. The survival was significantly worse for male patients and older patients (≥ 55 years) (log‐rank test: P < 0.05 for both). On multivariate analysis, male sex, cirrhosis, serum bilirubin, and serum albumin were independent predictors for TRS. There was no significant difference in survivals between patients with (n = 167) and without (n = 219) past HBV infection (log‐rank test: P = 0.293).

Conclusions

In this large Chinese cohort of UDCA‐treated PBC patients, male sex was associated with shorter survival, whereas past HBV infection was not associated with poorer outcome.
(Almost) Model‐Free Recovery
Authors: SCHNEIDER PAUL , TROJANI FABIO
Published: October 2018

Under mild assumptions, we recover the model‐free conditional minimum variance projection of the pricing kernel on various tradeable realized moments of market returns. Recovered conditional moments predict future realizations and give insight into the cyclicality of equity premia, variance risk premia, and the highest attainable Sharpe ratios under the minimum variance probability. The pricing kernel projections are often U‐shaped and give rise to optimal conditional portfolio strategies with plausible market timing properties, moderate countercyclical exposures to higher realized moments, and favorable out‐of‐sample Sharpe ratios.
Comprehensive analysis of coexpressed long noncoding RNAs and genes in breast cancer
Authors: Dong Ying , Zhang Ting , Li Xining , Yu Feng , Guo Yue
Published: October 2018

Aim

To identify the differentially expressed long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in breast cancer and analyze the potential roles.

Methods

RNA‐sequencing data (ID: GSE52194) of breast cancer and normal breast samples were downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus. Clean reads were aligned against the human genome hg19 using TopHat2 and assembled into transcripts using cufflinks. Protein‐coding potential of transcripts with length 200 bp or more were assessed using Coding Potential Calculator, followed by alignment against human lncRNAs using Blastn. Differentially expressed lncRNAs and genes were identified using NOISeq, followed by coexpression analysis with the criterion of Pearson correlation coefficient greater than 0.99. Enrichment analysis was performed using Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery.

Results

Totally 181 differentially expressed lncRNAs and 3967 differentially expressed genes (DEG) were obtained. Besides, coexpression analysis revealed ST6GALNAC3, ST6GALNAC4, ST8SIA5 and DEDD were coexpressed with FAM9B, LINC00320, LOC100169752 and RFX5. H2AFY2 and NOL11 were coexpressed with LOC286002. ADORA2B was coexpressed with GRHPR, LOC100652909 and TEX26‐AS1. CD226, FCER1A and ADORA3 were coexpressed with LINC00323 and LOC100505540. PVRL2 and CD300LB were coexpressed with C1QTNF1, CENPA, FAM22F and SNX2. The DEG were predominantly enriched in biological processes of regulation of transcription from RNA polymerase I (e.g. H2AFY2, NOL11 and DEDD) and regulation of mast cell activation (e.g. ADORA3, CD226, FCER1A, MS4A2, ADORA2B and PVRL2), as well as pathways of glycosphingolipid biosynthesis (e.g. ST6GALNAC3, ST6GALNAC4 and ST8SIA5) and peroxisome.

Conclusion

This study revealed the potential involvement of lncRNAs in the progression of breast cancer via participating in glycosphingolipid biosynthesis pathway and regulation of transcription and mast cell activation biological processes.
Interaction between the three frequently co‐occurringFusariummycotoxins in rats
Authors: Szabó‐Fodor Judit , Szabó András , Kócsó Dániel , Marosi Kinga , Bóta Brigitta , Kachlek Mariam , Mézes Miklós , Balogh Krisztián , Kövér György , Nagy István , Glávits Róbert , Kovács Melinda
Published: October 2018

To test the complex, acute biochemical effects of combined, naturally co‐occurring fusariotoxins, a 5‐day rat study was performed. Mycotoxin treatment was invented by intraperitoneal injection: FB1(F): 9 µg/animal/day (approx. 30 µg/kg bw/day), DON (D): 16.5 µg/animal/day (approx. 55 µg/kg bw/day) and ZEN (Z): 12.75 µg/animal/day (approx. 42.5 µg/kg bw/day). The binary groups (FB1and DON [FD], FB1and ZEN [FZ] and DON and ZEN [DZ]) as well as the ternary (FB1, DON and ZEN [FDZ]) group were dosed at the same combined level as the individual mycotoxins. Body weight, feed intake and mortality were not affected by any of the treatments. FB1and DON in combination (FD) increased the plasma aspartate aminotransferase activity synergistically (compared to the individual FB1and DON). In the liver, both the total glutathione (GSH) and the glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity were increased (p < 0.05) by the binary FB1and ZEN (FZ) and the DON and ZEN (DZ) groups as well as the ternary FB1, DON and ZEA group (FDZ) compared to the control. The GSH level of the ternary group was significantly increased compared to the FB1group, whereas the GPx activity of the ternary group was significantly increased compared to all three the individual mycotoxin groups. The Bliss independence method revealed synergism between DON and ZEN (DZ), as well as FB1and DON (FD) on liver GPx activity. None of the toxins alone or in combination exerted strong genotoxicity on lymphocytes, neither on the gross histopathological characteristics. However, even at these low levels acute exposure of more than one of these mycotoxins (FB1, DON and ZEN) affected metabolic and detoxification changes.
Are We In or Are We Out? Ingroup Prototypicality Effects in Implicit Ethnic‐American Associations
Authors: Devos Thierry , Anderson Kristin J.
Published: October 2018

The goal of the present research was to document ingroup prototypicality effects in implicit associations between ethnic groups and the American identity. Across four studies, we compared implicit associations displayed by perceivers who either belonged to or did not belong to the target ethnic groups. In Studies 1 and 2, African, Asian, Latino, and European American participants were randomly assigned to complete an Implicit Association Test contrasting either their ingroup and an outgroup or two outgroups (third‐party perspective). Data yielded evidence for ingroup prototypicality effects in all interethnic comparisons. Studies 3 and 4 used large datasets available through Project Implicit. We examined whether ingroup prototypicality effects were restricted to U.S. residents or generalized to participants living in other regions of the world. Results showed that ingroup prototypicality effects did not presuppose immersion in the U.S. context, but at the same time patterns of implicit associations varied according to region of residence. Implicit ethnic‐American associations are at least partially the reflection of the perceivers’ positioning in interethnic comparisons.
Protein and mRNA detection of classic cytokines in corresponding samples of serum, gingival tissue and gingival crevicular fluid from subjects with periodontitis
Authors: Duarte Poliana Mendes , de Lorenzo Abreu Letícia , Vilela André , Feres Magda , Giro Gabriela , Miranda Tamires Szeremeske
Published: October 2018

Background and objective

Little is known about the correspondence of cytokines detected among the different biological matrices used in periodontal research and whether locally‐detected cytokine mRNA can also be identified at the translated protein level. The aims of this study were to compare: (a) the detection of classic cytokines at protein level in corresponding samples of serum, gingival tissue and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) in subjects with periodontitis and (b) the detection of cytokines at protein level in GCF and tissue with their detection at mRNA level in tissue.

Material and methods

Protein concentrations of IL‐1β, IL‐6 and TNF‐α were measured in corresponding samples of GCF, gingival tissue and serum from 125 subjects with chronic periodontitis by multiplex immunoassay. The mRNA levels of these cytokines were evaluated in the same gingival tissue by qPCR.

Results

The mean protein concentrations of IL‐1ß and TNF‐α were higher in tissue and GCF than in serum (P < 0.05). The mean protein concentration of IL‐6 was higher in tissue, followed by serum and GCF, respectively (P < 0.05). Using serum as the gold standard, detection of IL‐1ß in GCF and IL‐6 in tissue had the highest sensitivity (100%), while detection of IL‐6 in the GCF had the lowest sensitivity (77.9%). Using tissue as the gold standard, the detection sensitivities of IL‐1ß, IL‐6 and TNF‐α were 93.6%, 78.4% and 94.2%, respectively, in GCF. Using mRNA as the gold standard, the detection of IL‐1ß and IL‐6 at the protein level in tissue (100.0%) had the highest sensitivity, while the detection of IL‐6 in GCF (77.9%) had the lowest sensitivity.

Conclusion

Tissue and GCF exhibited overall higher protein concentrations of cytokines than serum. GCF presented good reliability for identifying the target cytokines at protein level, when compared with detecting tissue cytokines at protein level. GCF and tissue presented high sensitivities for detecting cytokines at the protein level, when compared with detecting tissue cytokines at the mRNA level. The sensitivity for the identification of cytokines in the GCF depended on the target cytokine, where IL‐6 was the least likely cytokine to be detected in this matrix.
Which variables should be controlled when measuring the granulometry of a chewed bolus? A systematic review
Authors: Bonnet Guillaume , Batisse Cindy , Peyron Marie‐Agnès , Nicolas Emmanuel , Hennequin Martine
Published: October 2018

The distribution of food particles in a chewed bolus characterizes the food destruction after food oral processing (FOP). Previous reviews report that it could be affected by a lot of parameters as the number of chewing strokes, the dental status, but the conditions for producing reproducible data allowing inter‐studies comparison have not been clearly described yet. This systematic review aims to identify the variables that can affect bolus granulometry determination, and to calculate their relative weights in the median particle size (D50) variations. The systematic review focuses on granulometry expressed as D50 of the most used foods (peanuts, carrots, and almonds) and materials (Optosil and Optocal). Based on 58 studies, 5 variables among 60 being extracted could explain the D50 variations. Conceptual differences between the conditions for FOP should be considered. After Chewing‐test, the bolus is collected after a predefined number of strokes and its granulometry characterizes the effects of the dental and muscular apparatus on food destruction, while after Mastication‐test the bolus is collected at the swallowing threshold, and its granulometry reflects the outcome of the abilities of the subject to adapt his/her mastication behavior to food texture. Experimental conditions related either to physical sieving or image analysis used to analyze the collected boluses impact the D50 values. Finally, when type of test, sieving conditions, type of food or material, number of chewing strokes, and the oral status of the subjects are controlled, mean D50 values are reproducible and could be used for inter‐studies comparisons.

Practical applications

This review provides tables that could be useful to control mean D50 variations in further research.
Legislators as Lobbyists
Authors: Ritchie Melinda N. , You Hye Young
Published: October 2018

Public policy is produced by elected and unelected officials and through the interactions of branches of government. We consider how such interactions affect policy implementation and representation. We argue that legislators try to influence bureaucratic decisions through direct communication with federal agencies, and that such contact is effective and has consequences for policy outcomes. We provide empirical evidence of this argument using original data about direct communication between members of Congress and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) along with decisions made by the DOL regarding trade and redistributive policies. We find that direct contacts influence DOL decisions, and the agency is more likely to reverse previous decisions when requested to do so by legislators. Our results challenge key assumptions and findings in the previous literature and have important implications for interbranch relations and informal means of control over the implementation of national policy.
School‐Age Bullying, Workplace Bullying and Job Satisfaction: Experiences of LGB People in Britain
Authors: Drydakis Nick
Published: October 2018

Using a data set that contains information on retrospective school‐age bullying, as well as on workplace bullying in the respondents’ present job, the outcomes of this study suggest that bullying, when it is experienced by sexual orientation minorities tends to persist over time. According to the estimations, it seems that school‐age bullying of LGB people is associated with victims’ lower educational level and occupational sorting into non‐white‐collar jobs, especially for gay/bisexual men. In addition, the outputs suggest that for both gay/bisexual men and lesbian/bisexual women, school‐age bullying is positively associated with workplace bullying and negatively associated with job satisfaction. Additional results suggest a negative association between workplace bullying and job satisfaction. However, the outcomes show a positive association between the existence of an LGBT group in the workplace and job satisfaction.
A modified Steiner's analysis that does not require radiographic exposure of the cranial base
Authors: Finn Stephanie C. , Silver Mathew T. , Canary Benjamin , Kantarci Alpdogan , Allareddy Veerasathpurush , Katebi Negin , Masoud Mohamed I.
Published: October 2018

Structured Abstract

Objective

To correlate traditional Steiner's skeletal and dental measurements to similar measurements that use the eyes and natural head position as references instead of the cranial base.

Setting and Sample

One hundred and fifty‐two lateral cephalometric radiographs (66 female and 86 male) from the Harvard Forsyth twin sample were included in the study based on record availability.

Material and Methods

This was an observational study in which all cephalometric radiographs were traced and analysed using Steiner's cephalometric analysis. Each cephalogram was then altered to perform a similar analysis that uses the maximum convexity of the cornea together with natural head position as references instead of the cranial base. A Pearson product‐moment correlation coefficient was measured to determine the correlation between the conventional Steiner's analysis measurements and the novel measurements relying on the eyes and natural head position.

Results

Steiner's cephalometric measurements of the jaws to each other, the divergency and the orientation of the incisors had a strong positive correlation with their counterparts that relied on true horizontal and/or the eyes (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The eyes and true horizontal can be used as alternatives to the cranial base when diagnosing the relationship between the jaws and the position and orientation of the teeth. Since the eyes and natural head position are identifiable without ionizing radiation, future research should focus on the use of radiographic exposures limited to the upper and lower jaws for orthodontic diagnosis and outcome assessment.
Diagnostic and therapeutic value of implantable loop recorder: A tertiary care center experience
Authors: Padmanabhan Deepak , Kancharla Krishna , El‐Harasis Majd A. , Isath Ameesh , Makkar Nayani , Noseworthy Peter A. , Friedman Paul A. , Cha Yong‐Mei , Kapa Suraj
Published: October 2018

Background

Implantable loop recorders (ILRs) are effective in achieving symptom‐rhythm correlation. However, diagnostic yield in routine clinical practice is not well established.

Methods

Patients undergoing ILR implantation between April 2010 and May 2015 were included. All devices were enrolled in remote monitoring with automatic arrhythmia detection and P sense algorithms switched “ON.” Symptom‐rhythm correlation was assessed and changes in management were recorded.

Results

A total of 312 patients (57% male, age 53 ± 22 years; median CHADS2VaSc score  =  1) were included in this study. ILRs were implanted for evaluation of syncope in 206 (66.0%), presyncope in 23 (7.4%), unexplained palpitations in 51 (16.3%), and cryptogenic stroke in 27 (8.7%) patients. ILR monitoring yielded a diagnosis that changed management strategy in 146 (46.8%) patients over a median of 12 (1‐42) months. Out of 163 (52.2%) patients with symptoms during the monitoring period, 100 (61.3%) had an arrhythmia. ILR was useful in ruling out an arrhythmic cause for symptoms in 63 (38.7%) patients. ILR results led to pacemaker implantation in 23 patients (7.4% overall and 11.2% of those with syncope) after median follow‐up of 3 months. A new diagnosis of atrial fibrillation was made in 38 (12.2%) patients, 11 of whom were initiated on oral anticoagulants. ILR results led to pacemaker implantation in 31 patients (9.9% overall and 19.0% of those with syncope) after median follow‐up of 3 months. A new diagnosis of atrial fibrillation was made in 38 (12.2%) patients, nine of whom were initiated on oral anticoagulants. Overall, ILR led to a change in management in 47% patients with a number needed to implant of 2.1 to change management.

Conclusion

ILR monitoring is effective in achieving symptom‐rhythm correlation and results in changes in management in nearly half of implanted patients. Additional studies are needed to evaluate cost efficacy of ILR and the optimal monitoring duration.
High‐Frequency Spinal Cord Stimulation at 10 kHz for the Treatment of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Case Series of Patients With or Without Previous Spinal Cord Stimulator Implantation
Authors: Gill Jatinder S. , Asgerally Abbas , Simopoulos Thomas T.
Published: October 2018

Background

High‐frequency spinal cord stimulation at 10 kHz (HF10‐SCS) has been demonstrated to provide enhanced and durable pain relief in patients with chronic back and radiating leg pain. Patients with pain related to complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) in the chronic stages are commonly challenging to treat and often receive traditional spinal cord stimulation (SCS). Very little information is currently available about the therapeutic outcomes following application of high‐frequency stimulation in this cohort of patients.

Methods

The purpose of the retrospective case series was to report on the initial experience of HF10‐SCS in 13 patients with CRPS, some of whom had been exposed to low‐frequency SCS. A temporary trial of HF10‐SCS was carried out for 1 week, and those achieving a minimum of 50% pain intensity reduction underwent implantation. Successful responders were those who achieved a 50% decrease in pain intensity on subsequent follow‐up.

Results

Thirteen patients were trialed, 12 of whom went on to receive a permanent implant. Of the patients receiving permanent implants, the responder rate (50% pain relief) was 67% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.34 to 0.90), with an average follow‐up period of 12.1 ± 4.6 months. Of the 5 patients who had sympathetically independent pain, 3 were responders, and of the 7 patients who had sympathetically mediated pain, 5 were responders. There were no adverse events.

Conclusion

This small case series suggests that HF10‐SCS may be a viable option for patients with CRPS who have chronic intractable pain, including those who had suboptimal results from traditional SCS.
Solanum lycopersicum microRNA1916 targets multiple target genes and negatively regulates the immune response in tomato
Authors: Chen Lei , Meng Jun , He Xiao Li , Zhang Min , Luan Yu Shi
Published: October 2018

MicroRNA1916 (miR1916) is one of the nonconserved miRNAs that respond to various stresses in plants, but little has been known at present about its mechanisms in biotic stresses. In this study, the expression of Solanum lycopersicum (sly)‐miR1916 in tomato was found to be down‐regulated after infection with Phytophthora infestans or Botrytis cinerea. Tomato plants that overexpressed sly‐miR1916 displayed significant enhancement in susceptibility to P. infestans and B. cinerea infection, as well as increased tendency to produce reactive oxygen species. Silencing of sly‐miR1916 by short tandem target mimic and artificial microRNA strategies caused the tomato plants to become more tolerant to adverse conditions. In addition, lower sly‐miR1916 expression could up‐regulate the expression of strictosidine synthase (STR‐2), UDP‐glycosyltransferases (UGTs), late blight resistance protein homolog R1B‐16, disease resistance protein RPP13‐like, and MYB transcription factor (MYB12), which ultimately resulted in the accumulation of α‐tomatine and anthocyanins via STR‐2, UGT, and MYB12. Furthermore, ectopic expression of sly‐miR1916/STR‐2 significantly changed the tolerance of tobacco to B. cinerea. Taken together, the results demonstrated that sly‐miR1916 might regulate the expression of STR‐2, UGT, and MYB12 in tomato plant, conferring sensitivity to biotic stress via modulating α‐tomatine and anthocyanins.
Diadinoxanthin de‐epoxidation as important factor in the short‐term stabilization of diatom photosynthetic membranes exposed to different temperatures
Authors: Bojko Monika , Olchawa‐Pajor Monika , Goss Reimund , Schaller‐Laudel Susann , Strzałka Kazimierz , Latowski Dariusz
Published: October 2018

The importance of diadinoxanthin (Ddx) de‐epoxidation in the short‐term modulation of the temperature effect on photosynthetic membranes of the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum was demonstrated by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), Laurdan fluorescence spectroscopy, and high‐performance liquid chromatography. The 5‐SASL spin probe employed for the EPR measurements and Laurdan provided information about the membrane area close to the polar head groups of the membrane lipids, whereas with the 16‐SASL spin probe, the hydrophobic core, where the fatty acid residues are located, was probed. The obtained results indicate that Ddx de‐epoxidation induces a two component mechanism in the short‐term regulation of the membrane fluidity of diatom thylakoids during changing temperatures. One component has been termed the “dynamic effect” and the second the “stable effect” of Ddx de‐epoxidation. The “dynamic effect” includes changes of the membrane during the time course of de‐epoxidation whereas the “stable effect” is based on the rigidifying properties of Dtx. The combination of both effects results in a temporary increase of the rigidity of both peripheral and internal parts of the membrane whereas the persistent increase of the rigidity of the hydrophobic core of the membrane is solely based on the “stable effect.”
Seasonal changes in taxon richness and abundance of mobile invertebrates inhabiting holdfast of annual kelp Ecklonia radicosa (Phaeophyceae, Lessoniaceae) at the central Pacific coast of Japan
Authors: Akita Shingo , Yamada Hirokazu , Ito Madoka , Fujita Daisuke
Published: October 2018

To investigate seasonal changes in the taxon richness and abundance of mobile invertebrates inhabiting holdfasts of the warm temperate annual kelp Ecklonia radicosa, five holdfasts were collected monthly at the central Pacific coast of Japan from April to November 2014. During the study period, there was little variation in holdfast height and diameter, which ranged from 5.9 to 8.5 cm and from 7.1 to 10.8 cm, respectively. In total 7087 animals were collected from 40 holdfasts (177.2 individuals inds./holdfast, on average). The number of mobile invertebrates gradually increased from May (15 ± 9.9 inds./holdfast) to August (346 ± 152.5 inds./holdfast), with over 300 inds./holdfast until October before rapidly decreasing in November (110 ± 85.6 inds./holdfast). Similarly, taxon richness increased gradually from April (4.3 ± 1.0 taxa/holdfast) to August (11.0 ± 3.7 taxa/holdfast), and decreased in November (8.6 ± 2.3 taxa/holdfast). Interestingly, hundreds of mobile invertebrates inhabited holdfasts of kelp plants that had shed their blade in October and November. Taxon composition from August to October and the number of invertebrates from July to November were comparable to data previously reported for perennial kelps. In this study, the importance of annual Ecklonian species as biogenic habitats was demonstrated for the first time.
Lobbying the state or the market? A framework to study civil society organizations’ strategic behavior
Authors: Colli Francesca , Adriaensen Johan
Published: October 2018

This article lays out a framework for the conditions under which a civil society organization lobbies the state and when it turns to the market. This strategic choice cannot be understood solely from within current frameworks of lobbying strategies; insights from interest group studies must be complemented with the social movement literature's understanding of market‐based strategies. We build an overarching framework by extending the inside and outside lobbying dichotomy to include strategies that target the market. We also argue that it is crucial to understand the relations between both lobbying venues, as their relative power affects the choice not only between inside or outside lobbying, but also between the state or the market. The result is a richer framework more suited to capture the breadth of contemporary civil society organization lobbying behavior and, more importantly, to facilitate the comparative assessment of different strategic choices in future empirical research.
Longitudinal relations of preschoolers’ dispositional and situational anger to their prosocial behavior: The moderating role of shyness
Authors: Xiao Sonya Xinyue , Spinrad Tracy L. , Eisenberg Nancy
Published: October 2018

Generally, research on children’s anger and prosocial outcomes has been inconsistent, perhaps because researchers have overlooked nuances in children’s anger, such as whether the emotion is situational versus dispositional or is in response to blocked goals versus violations of moral principles (e.g., unfairness). Additionally, mixed findings may be due to potential moderators such as shyness. In this study, we investigated the unique relations of children’s (n = 192, 54.7% boys; Mage = 41.75 months) dispositional and situational anger in response to unfairness at 42 months old to their prosocial behavior toward strangers a year later. Further, we examined whether children’s shyness moderated the relations. Longitudinal models controlling for stability of the constructs showed that dispositional anger was unrelated to prosocial behavior whereas situational anger positively predicted later prosocial behavior. Further, children’s shyness moderated the relation between situational anger (but not dispositional anger) and prosocial behavior. For shy children, prosocial behavior toward strangers was low, regardless of anger; for those who were low or average in shyness, situational anger positively predicted prosocial behavior. The findings suggest that when children are not too shy to approach strangers, anger in response to unfairness may be an important precursor for later other‐oriented moral tendencies.
Using a Shiny app to teach the concept of power
Authors: Arnholt Alan T.
Published: October 2018

Understanding and computing power and the relationship between sample size and power are facilitated via a Shiny app. The Shiny app allows students to solve various scenarios by entering different parameters or moving sliders.
Fluorescence in blue light (FLU) is involved in inactivation and localization of glutamyl‐tRNA reductase during light exposure
Authors: Hou Zhiwei , Yang Yanyu , Hedtke Boris , Grimm Bernhard
Published: October 2018

Fluorescent in blue light (FLU) is a negative regulator involved in dark repression of 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA) synthesis and interacts with glutamyl‐tRNA reductase (GluTR), the rate‐limiting enzyme of tetrapyrrole biosynthesis. In this study, we investigated FLU‘s regulatory function in light‐exposed FLU‐overexpressing (FLUOE) Arabidopsis lines and under fluctuating light intensities in wild‐type (WT) and flu seedlings. FLUOE lines suppress ALA synthesis in the light, resulting in reduced chlorophyll content, but more strongly in low and high light than in medium growth light. This situation indicates that FLU's impact on chlorophyll biosynthesis depends on light intensity. FLU overexpressors contain strongly increased amounts of mainly membrane‐associated GluTR. These findings correlate with FLU‐dependent localization of GluTR to plastidic membranes and concomitant inhibition, such that only the soluble GluTR fraction is active. The overaccumulation of membrane‐associated GluTR indicates that FLU binding enhances GluTR stability. Interestingly, under fluctuating light, the leaves of flu mutants contain less chlorophyll compared with WT and become necrotic. We propose that FLU is basically required for fine‐tuned ALA synthesis. FLU not only mediates dark repression of ALA synthesis, but functions also to control balanced ALA synthesis under variable light intensities to ensure the adequate supply of chlorophyll.
Influence of platelet preparation techniques on in vitro storage quality after psoralen‐based photochemical treatment using new processing sets for triple‐dose units
Authors: Lotens Anaïs , de Valensart Nicolas , Najdovski Tomé , Acquart Sophie , Cognasse Fabrice , Rapaille André
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

The INTERCEPT Blood System (IBS) for platelets (PLTs) uses a combination of psoralen and ultraviolet‐A light to inactivate pathogens that may contaminate PLT concentrates (PCs). However, no data are available on the quality of IBS‐treated PLTs from different apheresis and buffy‐coat PC preparation platforms using the new triple storage (TS) set.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The objective of this study was to evaluate the TS set on three different preparation platforms compared with the large‐volume (LV) set, as control. PLT in vitro metabolic and activation parameters were studied over 7 days.

RESULTS

Several statistical differences are observed between the two sets, particularly for pH, oxygen pressure (pO2), carbonic gaz pressure (pCO2), and bicarbonate. The three different preparation techniques influence PLT parameters, and the difference is statistically significant for all the studied parameters, except for pCO2. The TS set has the advantage of shorter compound adsorption device time, higher PLT recoveries, and less PLT activation.

CONCLUSION

Results from the measured metabolic parameters and PLT variables obtained from PCs treated by LV and TS sets indicated good PLT function preservation up to 7 days of storage. The in vitro assessment results demonstrated acceptable PLT function for transfusion.