bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum bilirubin levels are positively associated with glycemic variability in women with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Kim Lee Kyung , Roh Eun , Kim Min Joo , Kim Min Kyeong , Park Kyeong Seon , Kwak Soo Heon , Cho Young Min , Park Kyong Soo , Jang Hak Chul , Jung Hye Seung
Published: April 2016

Aims/Introduction

Glycemic variability is known to induce oxidative stress. We investigated the relationships between glycemic variability and serum bilirubin levels, an endogenous anti‐oxidant, in patients with diabetes.

Materials and Methods

A cross‐sectional study was carried out with 77 patients with type 2 diabetes who had been recruited to two clinical studies from 2008 to 2014. There were no participants with diseases of the pancreas, liver, biliary tract and chronic renal insufficiency. Glycemic variation was calculated by a continuous glucose monitoring system, and correlation analyses were carried out to evaluate their association with bilirubin levels. Multiple linear regression was carried out to identify independent factors influencing bilirubin levels and glycemic variation.

Results

Among the participants, 42.3% were men. The mean (standard deviation) age was 61.5 years (10.4 years), body mass index was 24.2 kg/m2 (2.8 kg/m2), diabetes duration was 17.7 years (9.5 years), hemoglobin A1c was 60.7 mmol/mol (7.1 mmol/mol; 7.7 [0.7]%) and bilirubin was 11.8 μmol/L (4.10 μmol/L). Serum bilirubin levels were not different according to age, body mass index and hemoglobin A1c. However, the mean amplitude of glucose excursion was positively associated with bilirubin levels in women (r = 0.588, P < 0.001). After adjustment with duration of diabetes, serum albumin, liver enzymes, and mean glucose, the correlation between bilirubin and mean amplitude of glucose excursion remained significant (r = 0.566, P < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analyses showed that bilirubin was an independent determinant for the mean amplitude of glucose excursion in women. 1,5‐Anhydroglucitol was also associated with bilirubin levels in women.

Conclusions

Bilirubin level within the physiological range might be an independent predictor for glycemic variability in women with type 2 diabetes.
The hair grooming practices of women of African descent in London, United Kingdom: findings of a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Dadzie O.E. , Salam A.
Published: April 2016

Background

There is a lack of published data pertaining to the hair grooming practices of women of African descent in Europe. However, these data are important in facilitating culturally appropriate discussions on hair loss prevention.

Objective

We sought to describe the hair grooming practices of adult women of African descent in London, UK.

Method

Analysis of pooled data collected from a questionnaire‐based study exploring correlates of hair loss in women of African descent in London.

Results

A maximum of 242 subjects were included in the final data analysis. Subjects had a mean age of 41.1 years (CI: 39.3–42.9) and exhibited a diverse range of scalp hair phenotypes, although the majority (76.3%) had type 6, 7 or 8 hair. A percentage of 64.9 had more than five different hairstyles since childhood, with natural hairstyles being the most frequent current hairstyle (52.6%). The mean frequency of hair washing was 17.9 days (CI: 15.8–20.0), increasing to 32.8 days (28.6–37.0) when hair was braided or in a weave. The mean frequency of hair braiding/weaving was 63 days (CI: 56.3–69.7), whereas that for application of chemical relaxers was 88.6 days (CI: 75.6–101.6). While 59.2% of subjects avoided concurrent use of hair colours and chemical relaxers, only 46.3% avoided braiding chemically relaxed hair.

Conclusions

The hair‐care practices of women of African descent should be borne in mind when treating hair and scalp disorders in this group. Although the current trend is towards natural hairstyles, some adverse hair‐care practices still persist which should be addressed through culturally appropriate public health messages on hair loss prevention.
Variance and variability, uncovering an underappreciated component of reproductive isolation
Authors: Hereford J.
Published: April 2016

Estimating the fitness of line crosses has been a key element in studies of inbreeding depression, hybridization, and speciation. Fitness values are typically compared using differences in the arithmetic mean of a fitness component between types of crosses. One aspect of fitness that is often overlooked is variance in offspring fitness over time. In the majority of studies, ignoring this aspect of fitness is unavoidable because it is impossible to estimate variance in offspring fitness over long time periods. Here, I describe a method of estimating variance in offspring fitness by substituting spatial variation for temporal variation and provide an empirical example. The method is based on Levene's test of homogeneity of variances. It is implemented by quantifying differences in residual variation among cross types. In a previous study, I performed crosses between populations of the annual plant Diodia teres and quantified hybrid fitness. In this study, another component of isolation and heterosis was revealed when considering variance in offspring fitness. When taking into account variance in offspring fitness using geometric mean fitness as the measure of performance, hybrids between populations from different habitats showed less heterosis than when calculating fitness based on arithmetic mean. This study demonstrates that variance in offspring fitness can be an important aspect of fitness that should be measured more frequently.
Sexual Selection on male cuticular hydrocarbons via male–male competition and female choice
Authors: Lane S. M. , Dickinson A. W. , Tregenza T. , House C. M.
Published: April 2016

Traditional views of sexual selection assumed that male–male competition and female mate choice work in harmony, selecting upon the same traits in the same direction. However, we now know that this is not always the case and that these two mechanisms often impose conflicting selection on male sexual traits. Cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) have been shown to be linked to both social dominance and male attractiveness in several insect species. However, although several studies have estimated the strength and form of sexual selection imposed on male CHCs by female mate choice, none have established whether these chemical traits are also subject to sexual selection via male–male competition. Using a multivariate selection analysis, we estimate and compare sexual selection exerted by male–male competition and female mate choice on male CHC composition in the broad‐horned flour beetle Gnatocerus cornutus. We show that male–male competition exerts strong linear selection on both overall CHC abundance and body size in males, while female mate choice exerts a mixture of linear and nonlinear selection, targeting not just the overall amount of CHCs expressed but the relative abundance of specific hydrocarbons as well. We discuss the potential implications of this antagonistic selection with regard to male reproductive success.
Learning through Simultaneous Play: Evidence from Penny Auctions
Authors: Gonçalves Ricardo , Fonseca Miguel A.
Published: April 2016

This paper contributes to the emerging empirical literature on penny auctions, a particular type of all‐pay auctions. We focus on the potential learning effects that bidders may experience over time but also (and particularly) across auctions as a result of their auction participation. Using detailed bid‐level information, we find that, similarly to earlier literature, bidders suffer from a sunk cost fallacy, whereby their probability of dropping out of an auction is decreasing in the number of bids they have already placed in that auction. Although we do find that learning through repeated participation alleviates the sunk cost fallacy, participation in simultaneous penny auctions emerges as a much more effective learning mechanism, ultimately contributing toward bidders earning higher individual surpluses.
The Molecular Characterization and Immunity Identification of Microneme 3 of Eimeria acervulina
Authors: Zhang ZhenChao , Liu XinChao , Yang XinChao , Liu LianRui , Wang Shuai , Lu MingMin , Ehsan Mohammad , Gadahi Javaid A. , Song XiaoKai , Xu LiXin , Yan RuoFeng , Li XiangRui
Published: April 2016

The gene of Eimeria acervulina microneme protein 3 (EaMIC3) was cloned and characterized. According to the conserved sequence, the 3′‐ and 5′‐ends of EaMIC3 were amplified by the rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE). The full length cDNA of this gene was obtained by overlapping the sequences of 3′‐ and 5′‐extremities and amplification by reverse transcription PCR. The sequence analysis revealed that the opening reading frame (ORF) of EaMIC3 was 2,607 bp and encoded a protein of 868 amino acids with 93.04 kDa. Western blotting assay showed that the recombinant protein was successfully recognized by the sera of chickens experimentally infected with E. acervulina, whereas the native protein in the somatic extract of sporozoites was as well detected by sera from rats immunized with the recombinant protein of EaMIC3. Immunofluorescence analysis indicated that EaMIC3 was expressed in the sporozoites and merozoites stages of E. acervulina. Animal challenge experiments demonstrated that the recombinant protein of EaMIC3 could significantly increase the average body weight gains, decrease the mean lesion scores and the oocyst outputs of the immunized chickens and presented anticoccidial index (ACI) more than 165. Moreover, EaMIC3 protein produced significantly high level of IgG antibody, IFN‐γ, IL‐10, IL‐17 TGF‐β, CD4+, and CD8+.
A screening of medicinal compounds for their effect on egg strings and nauplii of the salmon louse Lepeophtheirus salmonis (Krøyer)
Authors: Aaen S M , Hamre L A , Horsberg T E
Published: April 2016

Egg strings and nauplii of the salmon louse Lepeophtheirus salmonis were exposed to a variety of medicinal compounds at 50 mg L−1 for 30 min in two experiment series. This medicine concentration was selected as a starting point for a screening series. Hatching of egg strings and development to copepodid larvae were monitored in one experiment, and the survival and development of nauplii were monitored in the other. Two compounds, emamectin benzoate and cypermethrin, inhibited hatching effectively. Several compounds affected nauplii, either directly or through inhibiting development to the infective stage. A total of 50 mg L−1 of azamethiphos, cypermethrin, emamectin benzoate and propoxur was lethal to >70% of the larvae. Diflubenzuron, fenoxycarb, pymetrozine, pyriprole and tebufenozide diminished the ability of nauplii developing to copepodids.
A screening of multiple classes of pharmaceutical compounds for effect on preadult salmon lice Lepeophtheirus salmonis
Authors: Aaen S M , Horsberg T E
Published: April 2016

The salmon louse, Lepeophtheirus salmonis Krøyer, is the major obstacle facing a sustainable future for farmers of salmonids in the North Atlantic Ocean. Medicinal compounds have been the most utilized tool to prevent salmon lice infestation; however, the active compounds have become less effective or considered environmentally unfriendly in the past years. Novel medicinal compounds are thus highly desired. In two experiment series, 26 medicinal compounds were screened for their efficacy against salmon lice, in a 30‐min exposure and 24‐h exposure, respectively. Pyriprole, imidacloprid, cartap and spinetoram were effective at 50 mg L−1 in the short‐time exposure. In the 24‐h exposure, pyriprole, propoxur, cartap, imidacloprid, fenoxycarb, pyriproxyfen, nitenpyram, spinetoram, spiromesifen and diflubenzuron induced a high level of immobilization at 5 mg L−1. The EC50 values of the effective compounds were calculated in further titration studies for both exposure periods. Several physiological and biochemical pathways were discovered as possible targets for medicinal intervention against the salmon louse.
Effects of Exercise on Cognition: The Finnish Alzheimer Disease Exercise Trial: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Öhman Hannareeta , Savikko Niina , Strandberg Timo E. , Kautiainen Hannu , Raivio Minna M. , Laakkonen Marja‐Liisa , Tilvis Reijo , Pitkälä Kaisu H.
Published: April 2016

Objectives

To examine whether a regular, long‐term exercise program performed by individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) at home or as group‐based exercise at an adult daycare center has beneficial effects on cognition; to examine secondary outcomes of a trial that has been published earlier.

Design

Randomized, controlled trial.

Setting

Community.

Participants

Community‐dwelling dyads (N = 210) of individuals with AD and their spousal caregivers randomized into three groups.

Intervention

Two types of intervention comprising customized home‐based exercise (HE) and group‐based exercise (GE), each twice a week for 1 year, were compared with a control group (CG) receiving usual community care.

Measurements

Cognitive function was measured using the Clock Drawing Test (CDT), Verbal Fluency (VF), Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR), and Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months of follow‐up.

Results

Executive function, measured using CDT, improved in the HE group, and changes in the score were significantly better than those of the CG at 12 months (adjusted for age, sex, and CDR, P = .03). All groups deteriorated in VF and MMSE score during the intervention, and no significant differences between the groups were detected at 12‐month follow‐up when analyses were adjusted for age, sex, and CDR.

Conclusion

Regular, long‐term, customized HE improved the executive function of community‐dwelling older people with memory disorders, but the effects were mild and were not observed in other domains of cognition.
Steel‐versus‐Concrete Debate Revisited: Global Warming Potential and Embodied Energy Analyses based on Attributional and Consequential Life Cycle Perspectives
Authors: Kua Harn Wei , Maghimai Marcus
Published: April 2016

In the study of sustainable building materials, the comparison of the life cycle environmental performance of steel and reinforced concrete has been a popular and important topic. Based in Singapore, this is one of the first studies in the literature that applies both attributional and consequential life cycle approaches to compare the global warming potential and embodied energies of these two materials, which are widely used for the structural parts of buildings. It was found that 1 kilogram (kg) of steel can be replaced by 1 or 4.25 kg of reinforced concrete. Two consequential scenarios for each of three combinations of primary and secondary steel were assessed. It was found that reinforced concrete produces less carbon dioxide emissions and incurs less embodied energy in most of these cases, but when different sustainable primary steel‐making technologies were incorporated, these results may be reversed. We applied consequential life cycle assessment and scenario analysis to describe how changes in the demand for structural steel and reinforced concrete in Singapore's building industry give rise to different environmental impacts. Specifically, the consequential life cycle approach revealed that, over the short term, the impact of substituting steel with reinforced concrete depends on the difference in impacts resulting from the transportation of these two materials within Singapore. Based on these lessons, integrated technology policies to improve the overall sustainability of using steel for construction were proposed.
Annexin A2, an essential partner of the exocytotic process in chromaffin cells
Authors: Gabel Marion , Chasserot‐Golaz Sylvette
Published: April 2016

Annexin A2 is a calcium‐, actin‐, and lipid‐binding protein implicated in exocytosis in different cell types, such as neuroendocrine cells. In chromaffin cells, cytosolic annexin A2 is recruited to the plasma membrane upon cell stimulation. Here, we review the latest evidence detailing the functional importance of annexin A2 in different stages of exocytosis. These include the recruitment of annexin A2 to the plasma membrane near soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor attachment protein receptor complexes, the role of annexin A2 in the formation of lipid domains at exocytotic sites, and finally the annexin A2 bundling of actin microfilaments associated with chromaffin granules. These structures induce first the coalescence of lipid domains required for the formation of the exocytotic site, and in the second time, exert mechanical force on the granule to favor fusion pore expansion and squeeze the granule to facilitate catecholamine release.

image

Annexin A2 is a calcium‐, actin‐, and lipid‐binding protein implicated in exocytosis in different cell types, including neuroendocrine cells. Upon cell stimulation, annexin A2 translocates from the cytosol to the plasma membrane of chromaffin cells and bundles actin filaments associated with chromaffin granules. This promotes the formation of lipid domains required for granule docking, and facilitates catecholamine release by compressing the granule.

This article is part of a mini review series on Chromaffin cells (ISCCB Meeting, 2015).
Inhibition of Leptin–ObR Interaction Does not Prevent Leptin Translocation Across a Human Blood–Brain Barrier Model
Authors: Gonzalez‐Carter D. , Goode A. E. , Fiammengo R. , Dunlop I. E. , Dexter D. T. , Porter A. E.
Published: April 2016

The adipocyte‐derived hormone leptin regulates appetite and energy homeostasis through the activation of leptin receptors (ObR) on hypothalamic neurones; hence, leptin must be transported through the blood–brain barrier (BBB) to reach its target sites in the central nervous system. During obesity, however, leptin BBB transport is decreased, in part precluding leptin as a viable clinical therapy against obesity. Although the short isoform of the ObR (ObRa) has been implicated in the transport of leptin across the BBB as a result of its elevated expression in cerebral microvessels, accumulating evidence indicates that leptin BBB transport is independent of ObRa. In the present study, we employed an ObR‐neutralising antibody (9F8) to directly examine the involvement of endothelial ObR in leptin transport across an in vitro human BBB model composed of the human endothelial cell line hCMEC/D3. Our results indicate that, although leptin transport across the endothelial monolayer was nonparacellular, and energy‐ and endocytosis‐dependent, it was not inhibited by pre‐treatment with 9F8, despite the ability of the latter to recognise hCMEC/D3‐expressed ObR, prevent leptin–ObR binding and inhibit leptin‐induced signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT‐3) phosphorylation in hCMEC/D3 cells. Furthermore, hCMEC/D3 cells expressed the transporter protein low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein‐2 (LRP‐2), which is capable of binding and endocytosing leptin. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that leptin binding to and signalling through ObR is not required for efficient transport across human endothelial monolayers, indicating that ObR is not the primary leptin transporter at the human BBB, a role which may fall upon LRP‐2. A deeper understanding of leptin BBB transport will help clarify the exact causes for leptin resistance seen in obesity and aid in the development of more efficient BBB‐penetrating leptin analogues.
Dragon Head Enterprises and the State of Agribusiness in China
Authors: Schneider Mindi
Published: April 2016

This paper examines the political trajectory of agribusiness firms called ‘dragon head enterprises’ in China's ongoing agri‐food transformations. It starts from the premise that state and private elites in China are working together to consolidate a robust domestic agribusiness sector, as both an arena for national‐level rural and economic development, and a new frontier for access to resources and markets abroad. Through analyses of policy documents, market share data and ethnographic materials, I explore the organization and operation of dragon heads in the pork sector. My findings reveal that agribusiness development in China's pork sector is largely domestic, has a mixed state–private form and tends to marginalize the foreign‐based TNCs that have been the most powerful actors in the global agri‐food system to date. I argue that China is not only a destination for ‘external’ transnational capital, but also a site of agribusiness development in its own right. This has important implications for analysing capitalist transformations and for engaging global agri‐food politics.
Sensory stimulation for persons with dementia: a review of the literature
Authors: Strøm Benedicte S , Ytrehus Siri , Grov Ellen‐Karine
Published: April 2016

Aims and objectives

To provide an overview of available sensory stimulation interventions, and their effect on persons with dementia and to present theoretical and methodological characteristics of the studies included.

Background

Different sensory stimulation interventions are used for persons with dementia to increase alertness, reduce agitation and improve quality of life. However, the effect of these interventions is not clear, neither are their characteristics.

Design

A systematic search and review of the literature with description of the content and an evaluation of theoretical and methodological approaches.

Methods

Systematic searches in CINAHL, PubMed (Medline), The Cochrane library and PsycINFO. Studies included have been subject to quality assessment by means of Critical Appraisal Skills Programme.

Results

Fifty‐five studies were included and thirty of these documented significant effect. The effect of the sensory stimulation interventions mainly reported on negative behaviours, except from five studies assessing quality of life and well‐being. The majority of the studies had methodological limitations. The different sensory stimulation interventions were organised into eight categories: music, light therapy, acupressure/reflexology, massage/aromatherapy and doll therapy/pet therapy/toy therapy, the Sonas programme and Snoezelen.

Conclusions

More studies are needed to clarify appropriate substantial background for the specific interventions. However, most of the studies based their interventions on a theoretical foundation. Furthermore, more research is needed to measure the effect of sensory stimulation on communication as well as quality of life. In addition, studies are to focus on whether the effect depends on the stage of dementia.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses are to be aware of sensory stimulation as a possible intervention to improve persons' quality of life.
Reliability Analysis of Lithium Disilicate Crowns: Effectof Veneering and Milling Production Workflow
Authors: Cardelli Paolo , Serafini Nicola , Sinjari Bruna , Murmura Giovanna , Özcan Mutlu
Published: April 2016

Purpose

To evaluate the reliability of lithium disilicate crowns produced using either CAD/CAM milling or thermopress workflow, for monolithic or veneered framework design for crowns.

Materials and Methods

Lithium disilicate crowns (N = 40) were produced using one of four different workflows, namely (a) MTP: monolithic thermopressed crowns, (b) MCM: monolithic CAD/CAM milled, (c) VTP: thermopressed frameworks veneered, or (d) VCM: CAD/CAM milled crowns veneered. The specimens were adhesively luted to resin composite abutments and then tested until fracture in a universal testing machine (1 mm/min). Failure types were classified and further evaluated under stereomicroscope and SEM. The data (N) were analyzed using one‐way ANOVA. Weibull distribution values including the Weibull modulus (m), characteristic strength (0), and probability of failure at 5% (0.05) were calculated.

Results

Fabrication method did not significantly influence the mean fracture strength (N) of lithium disilicate crowns (MTP: 3626 ± 283; MCM: 3719 ± 483; VTP: 3754 ± 485; VCM: 3302 ± 604) (p = 0.154). Weibull distribution presented lower shape value (m) of VCM (m = 5.81) followed by VTP (m = 8.83), MCM (m = 8.84) compared to MTP (m = 12.9). Type V failures (severe fracture of the crown and/or tooth) were experienced explicitly in all groups. The monolithic specimens showed a homogeneous structure without porosities. Wake hackles were observed at the fracture surface, with a radial path directed to the cervical area. The veneered crowns presented twist and wake hackles propagated perpendicularly from the cement‐ceramic interface.

Conclusion

Monolithic or veneered lithium disilicate crowns presented similar fracture strength when frameworks or entire crowns were milled or thermopressed but distribution with Weibull characteristics was more favorable for monolithic pressed crowns and the least reliable for the milled and veneered crowns.

Clinical Significance

Lithium disilicate ceramic crowns could be produced either by thermopressing or CAD/CAM milling workflow without sacrificing their reliability.
Retention Load of Telescopic Crowns with Different Taper Angles between Cobalt‐Chromium and Polyetheretherketone Made with Three Different Manufacturing Processes Examined by Pull‐Off Test
Authors: Wagner Christina , Stock Veronika , Merk Susanne , Schmidlin Patrick R. , Roos Malgorzata , Eichberger Marlis , Stawarczyk Bogna
Published: April 2016

Purpose

To investigate the retention loads of differently fabricated secondary telescopic polyetheretherketone (PEEK) crowns on cobalt‐chromium primary crowns with different tapers.

Materials and Methods

Cobalt‐chromium primary crowns with 0°, 1°, and 2° tapers were constructed, milled, and sintered. Corresponding secondary crowns were fabricated by milling, pressing from pellets, and pressing from granules. For these nine test groups, the pull‐off tests of each crown combination were performed 20 times, and the retention loads were measured (Zwick 1445, 50 mm/min). Data were analyzed using linear regression, covariance analysis, mixed models, Kruskal‐Wallis, and Mann‐Whitney U‐test, together with the Benferroni‐Holm correction.

Results

The mixed models covariance analysis reinforced stable retention load values (p = 0.162) for each single test sequence. There was no interaction between the groups and the separation cycles (p = 0.179). Milled secondary crowns with 0° showed the lowest mean retention load values compared to all tested groups (p = 0.003) followed by those pressed form pellets with 1°. Regarding the different tapers, no effect of manufacturing method on the results was observed within 1° and 2° groups (p = 0.540; p = 0.052); however, among the 0° groups, the milled ones showed significantly the lowest retention load values (p = 0.002). Among the manufacturing methods, both pressed groups showed no impact of taper on the retention load values (p > 0.324 and p > 0.123, respectively), whereas among the milled secondary crowns, the 0° taper showed significantly lower retention load values than the 1° and 2° taper (p < 0.002).

Conclusion

Based on these results, telescopic crowns made of PEEK seem to show stable retention load values for each test sequence; however, data with thermo‐mechanical aging are still required. In addition, further developments in CAD/CAM manufacturing of PEEK materials for telescopic crowns are warranted, especially for 0°.
Can Trade Be Good for the Environment?
Authors: LAPAN HARVEY E. , SIKDAR SHIVA
Published: April 2016

We analyze the impact of trade in a differentiated good on environmental policy when there is local and transboundary pollution. In autarky, the (equivalent) pollution tax is set equal to the marginal damage from own emissions. If the strategic policy instrument is a tax, leakage occurs under trade and tends tolowerthe tax. The net terms of trade effect, due to the exportable and importable varieties of the differentiated good, tends toincreasethe tax. We derive conditions under which pollution taxes under trade are higher than the marginal damage from own emissions, i.e.,higherthan the Pigouvian tax and than that under autarky. Then, pollutionfallsunder trade relative to autarky. When countries use quotas/permits to regulate pollution, there isnoleakage, while the net terms of trade effect tends to make pollution policystricter. The equivalent tax is always higher than the marginal damage from own emissions, i.e.,always higherthan the Pigouvian tax and than that under autarky; hence, pollutionalwaysfalls under trade. Our analysis provides some insight into the findings in the empirical literature that trade might be good for the environment.
Private Information in the BBV Model of Public Goods
Authors: BARBIERI STEFANO , MALUEG DAVID A.
Published: April 2016

To analyze the private provision of a public good in the presence of private information, we explore the connections between two frameworks: the binary public good model with threshold uncertainty and the standard continuous model à la Bergstrom et al. Linearity of best responses in others' contributions is key to matching the two frameworks. We identify all utility functions that display this linearity, and we provide conditions ensuring that the minimal properties that Bergstrom et al. require for utilities are satisfied. Using techniques developed in the threshold uncertainty framework, we show existence and uniqueness of the Bayes‐Nash equilibrium—thus generalizing existing results—and we analyze its comparative statics properties. In particular, under the reasonable assumption that agents' income is stochastic and private information, we complement the full‐information crowding‐out and redistribution results of Bergstrom et al. If the government taxes agents' income proportionally and redistributes (expected) revenues lump sum, equilibrium public good provision can increase or decrease, even if the set of contributors is unchanged. Similarly, we show that crowding‐out can be one‐for‐one, less than one‐for‐one, or more than one‐for‐one. Finally, we extend our results to a multidimensional framework in which agents' unit costs of contributions are also private information.
State policy environment and the dental safety net: a case study of professional practice environments’ effect on dental service availability in Federally Qualified Health Centers
Authors: Maxey Hannah L. , Norwood Connor W. , Liu Ziyue
Published: April 2016

Objectives

To determine whether and to what extent the state policy environment for the dental hygiene workforce affects the availability of dental services at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs).

Methods

We examined data drawn from the Uniform Data System on 1,135 unique FQHC grantees receiving community health center funding from the U.S. Health Center program between 2004 and 2012. The Dental Hygiene Professional Practice Index was used to quantify variations in state policy environment. We then examined the influence of state policy environment on the availability of dental care through generalized linear mixed‐effects models.

Results

Approximately 80% of FQHCs reported delivering dental services. We consistently observed that FQHCs with favorable levels of state support had the highest proportion of FQHCs that delivered dental services, even more so than FQHCs with extremely high support. FQHCs located in the most restrictive states had 0.28 the odds of delivering dental services as did those located in the most supportive states.

Conclusions

The state policy environment for the dental hygiene workforce is likely associated with the availability of dental services at FQHCs. The greatest proportion of FQHCs delivering dental services was found in states with policy provisions supporting professional independence in public health settings. Nevertheless, additional research is needed to understand the specific mechanism by which these policies affect FQHCs.
Role of riboswitches in gene regulation and their potential for algal biotechnology
Authors: Nguyen Ginnie T. D. T. , Scaife Mark A. , Helliwell Katherine E. , Smith Alison G.
Published: April 2016

Riboswitches are regulatory elements in messenger RNA to which specific ligands can bind directly in the absence of proteins. Ligand binding alters the mRNA secondary structure, thereby affecting expression of the encoded protein. Riboswitches are widespread in prokaryotes, with over 20 different effector ligands known, including amino acids, cofactors, and Mg2+ ions, and gene expression is generally regulated by affecting translation or termination of transcription. In plants, fungi, and microalgae, riboswitches have been found, but only those that bind thiamine pyrophosphate. These eukaryotic riboswitches operate by causing alternative splicing of the transcript. Here, we review the current status of riboswitch research with specific emphasis on microalgae. We discuss new riboswitch discoveries and insights into the underlying mechanism of action, and how next generation sequencing technology provides the motivation and opportunity to improve our understanding of these rare but important regulatory elements. We also highlight the potential of microalgal riboswitches as a tool for synthetic biology and industrial biotechnology.
Molecular phylogeny of Zeacarpa (Ralfsiales, Phaeophyceae) proposing a new family Zeacarpaceae and its transfer to Nemodermatales
Authors: Kawai Hiroshi , Hanyuda Takeaki , Bolton John , Anderson Robert
Published: April 2016

Zeacarpa leiomorpha is a crustose brown alga endemic to South Africa. The species has been tentatively placed in Ralfsiaceae, but its ordinal assignment has been uncertain. The molecular phylogeny of brown algae based on concatenated DNA sequences of seven chloroplast and mitochondrial gene sequences (atpB, psaA, psaB, psbA, psbC, rbcL, and cox1) of taxa covering most of the orders revealed the most related phylogenetic relationship of Z. leiomorpha to Nemoderma tingitanum (Nemodermatales) rather than Ralfsiaceae (Ralfsiales). Morphologically, Zeacarpa and Nemoderma share crustose thallus structure and multiple discoidal chloroplasts without pyrenoids in each cell, however, the formation of lateral unilocular zoidangia in tufts in loose upright filaments in Zeacarpa is distinctive in brown algae. Considering the relatively distant genetic divergence between the two taxa, comparable to that among families or orders in representative brown algae, in addition to the above‐mentioned unique morphological features, we propose the classification of Zeacarpa in a new family Zeacarpaceae in the order Nemodermatales.
Antimicrobial efficiency of mouthrinses versus and in combination with different photodynamic therapies on periodontal pathogens in an experimental study
Authors: Decker E.‐M. , Bartha V. , Kopunic A. , von Ohle C.
Published: April 2016

Background and Objective

In the therapy of destructive periodontal disease, chemical antimicrobial agents and increasingly photodynamic therapy (PDT) play an important adjunctive role to standard mechanical anti‐infective treatment procedures. However, both antiseptic methods have their shortcomings in terms of eliminating periodontal pathogens. The aim of the study was to compare the antibacterial efficacy of different antiseptic mouthrinses, of a conventional and a new, modified PDTplus as well as of the different antiseptic mouthrinses combined with either the conventional or the modified PDTplus against periopathogens.

Material and Methods

Six representative periodontitis‐associated bacterial strains were grown for 24 h under anaerobic conditions. After mixing the individual cell pellets they were exposed to 10 different antiseptic mouthrinse formulations: chlorhexidine (0.2%, 0.06%, CHX); CHX + cetylpyridinium chloride (each 0.05%); sodium hypochlorite (0.05%); polyhexanide (0.04%, PHMB1; 0.1%, PHMB2); octenidine dihydrochloride (0.1%); fluoride (250 ppm); essential oils; povidone iodine (10%); and saline (0.9%, NaCl) as control. Furthermore, the bacteria were treated with conventional PDT based on light‐emitting diodes and a new modified photodisinfection combining photosensitizer with hydrogen peroxide to PDTplus also based on light‐emitting diodes. In addition to the single treatments, a combined application of antiseptic exposure followed by use of PDT or PDTplus was performed. The microbial viability was characterized by analyzing colony growth and fluorescence‐based vitality proportions.

Results

Nearly all mouthrinses caused a statistically significant growth inhibition. The most effective antiseptics, CHX (0.2%), CHX/cetylpyridinium chloride and octenidine dihydrochloride, inhibited bacterial growth completely. Conventional PDT resulted in moderate reduction of colony growth. The modified PDTplus achieved maximum antimicrobial effect. The combination of antiseptic exposure and PDT against periopathogens predominantly increased antibacterial efficacy compared to the single applications. The mouthrinse containing essential oil seemed to interfere with PDT.

Conclusion

A combination therapy of preceding chemotherapeutical exposure and subsequent photodisinfection may be a more effective and promising antibacterial treatment than single applications of the antiseptic methods. The modified PDTplus using oxygen‐enriched toluidine showed a superior antibacterial effect on periodontal pathogens to conventional PDT and to the majority of the investigated mouthrinses.
Biochemical and histopathologic analysis of the effects of periodontitis on left ventricular heart tissues of rats
Authors: Köse O. , Arabacı T. , Gedikli S. , Eminoglu D. Ö. , Kermen E. , Kızıldağ A. , Kara A. , Ozkanlar S. , Yemenoglu H.
Published: April 2016

Background and Objective

Current epidemiological works have suggested that chronic infections, such as periodontitis, are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including hypertrophy and heart failure. However, mechanisms behind the association are not known. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of periodontitis on the serum lipid levels, inflammatory marker levels and left ventricular heart muscle tissues of rats.

Material and Methods

Eighteen male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups: control (without ligature) and experimental periodontitis (EP; ligatured). Periodontitis was induced by placing ligatures (3.0 silk) at a submarginal position of the lower first molar teeth for 5 wk. Serum samples were collected for biochemical studies (C‐reactive protein, interleukin‐1β, tumor necrosis factor‐α and serum lipids), after which the rats were killed and heart tissue samples were obtained for histopathological and immunological studies (nuclear factor kappa B and β‐myosin heavy chain).

Results

Significant increases in C‐reactive protein and interleukin‐1β levels and no statistically significant increase in tumor necrosis factor‐α level were observed in the EP group compared to the control group. In addition, total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride levels were significantly higher in the EP group. Stereological and immunological findings showed that the number of nuclear factor kappa B‐p65‐ and β‐myosin heavy chain‐positive cardiomyocytes increased significantly in the left ventricular tissue samples of the rats with periodontitis.

Conclusion

Early chronic phase effects of periodontitis on heart tissue are in the form of degenerative and hypotrophic changes. Prolonging the exposure to systemic inflammatory stress may increase the risk of occurrence of hypertrophic changes.
A novel chemically modified curcumin reduces inflammation‐mediated connective tissue breakdown in a rat model of diabetes: periodontal and systemic effects
Authors: Elburki M. S. , Moore D. D. , Terezakis N. G. , Zhang Y. , Lee H.‐M. , Johnson F. , Golub L. M.
Published: April 2016

Background and Objective

Periodontal disease is the most common chronic inflammatory disease known to mankind (and the major cause of tooth loss in the adult population) and has also been linked to various systemic diseases, particularly diabetes mellitus. Based on the literature linking periodontal disease with diabetes in a “bidirectional manner”, the objectives of the current study were to determine: (i) the effect of a model of periodontitis, complicated by diabetes, on mechanisms of tissue breakdown including bone loss; and (ii) the response of the combination of this local and systemic phenotype to a novel pleiotropic matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor, chemically modified curcumin (CMC) 2.24.

Material and Methods

Diabetes was induced in adult male rats by intravenous injection of streptozotocin (nondiabetic rats served as controls), and Escherichia coli endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide) was repeatedly injected into the gingiva to induce periodontitis. CMC 2.24 was administered by oral gavage (30 mg/kg) daily; untreated diabetic rats received vehicle alone. After 3 wk of treatment, the rats were killed, and gingiva, jaws, tibia and skin were collected. The maxillary jaws and tibia were dissected and radiographed. The gingival tissues of each experimental group (n = 6 rats/group) were pooled, extracted, partially purified and, together with individual skin samples, analyzed for matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2 and MMP‐9 by gelatin zymography; MMP‐8 was analyzed in gingival and skin tissue extracts, and in serum, by western blotting. The levels of three bone‐resorptive cytokines [interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6 and tumor necrosis factor‐α], were measured in gingival tissue extracts and serum by ELISA.

Results

Systemic administration of CMC 2.24 to diabetic rats with endotoxin‐induced periodontitis significantly inhibited alveolar bone loss and attenuated the severity of local and systemic inflammation. Moreover, this novel tri‐ketonic phenylaminocarbonyl curcumin (CMC 2.24) appeared to reduce the pathologically excessive levels of inducible MMPs to near‐normal levels, but appeared to have no significant effect on the constitutive MMPs required for physiologic connective tissue turnover. In addition to the beneficial effects on periodontal disease, induced both locally and systemically, CMC 2.24 also favorably affected extra‐oral connective tissues, skin and skeletal bone.

Conclusion

This study supports our hypothesis that CMC 2.24 is a potential therapeutic pleiotropic MMP inhibitor, with both intracellular and extracellular effects, which reduces local and systemic inflammation and prevents hyperglycemia‐ and bacteria‐induced connective tissue destruction.
Identification of the Chemical Composition of Meat Products Based on their Rheological Properties
Authors: Myhan Ryszard , Markowski Marek , Daszkiewicz Tomasz , Korpusik Adam , Zapotoczny Piotr
Published: April 2016

The study was performed to examine whether the chemical composition of processed meats can be identified based on their rheological properties. The analyzed material comprised ten types of pork and poultry cold cuts supplied by renowned manufacturers and available throughout Poland. The rheological properties of cold cuts were derived using a nonlinear rheological model and correlated with the results of proximate chemical analysis. An analysis of processed meats did not show correlations between variations in their rheological properties and proximate chemical composition versus production date. However, the results of proximate chemical and rheological analyses supported the identification of the evaluated products. Both methods produced similar results only when the type of product or raw materials were known. The rheological properties of the analyzed processed meat products supported the identification of their protein, ash and dry matter content, but could not be used to estimate their collagen and fat content with satisfactory precision.

Practical Applications

The manuscript presents an attempt to develop a mathematical model describing the rheological properties of the analyzed material, including the elastic modulus, consistency index, flow index and flow limit, which are not dependent on the stress relaxation tests used to establish those values. We also described an approach to the identification of protein, ash and dry matter content of sausages based on rheological data, and correlations between rheological/mechanical measurements and the chemical composition of meat products. The indirect method for identifying the proximate chemical composition of processed meat products based on their rheological properties poses an alternative to laborious and time‐consuming analytical techniques, and it can be used to design a simple measuring device. The proposed methodological approach can have important implications for both industrial practice and research.
Rheological Properties of Collagen Matter Predicted Using an Extrusion Rheometer
Authors: Skočilas Jan , Žitný Rudolf , Štancl Jaromír , Dostál Martin , Landfeld Aleš , Houška Milan
Published: April 2016

This article reports on measurements of the rheological properties of slightly compressible collagen liquid (from 6.6 to 8.0% mass fraction of native bovine collagen in water) using a capillary rheometer. The extrusion rheometer is equipped with an annular slit between a circular tube and a central pin. The sample of collagen to be tested is pushed by a piston from a container to the annular measuring section. A manually adjusted hydraulic drive enables the piston velocity and the corresponding shear rate to be varied continuously within the range from 50 to 3000 s−1. Strain gages installed in the outer cylinder monitor the axial pressure profile. It is therefore possible to identify not only the basic nonelastic shear flow characteristics (Herschel Bulkley and Power law model parameters), but also the first normal difference evaluated from the exit pressure. The results of experiments carried out at room temperature show rather broad variability of the parameters.

Practical Applications

The rheological properties of native collagenous materials are of primary importance in the design of extrusion processes, for example, extrusion of sausage casings (a description of the flow behavior not only inside the screw extruders, but also while the extruded tubes are being blown) and similar technologies (injection molding, film blowing, rolling, and so forth). Knowledge of the rheological properties of native collagenous vascular grafts is important for an indirect assessment of irradiation effects and the effects of additives on a collagenous matrix (crosslinking). Native collagenous materials are rather “awkward” from the point of view of rheometry. For example, rotational rheometers are limited to a linear oscillation regime (due to discharge of the samples and shear banding), and the application of capillary rheometers is complicated by the inhomogeneity of native collagen (presence of bubbles). The proposed rheometer takes into account the compressibility of the tested samples, and enables an evaluation not only of the shear properties but also of the elastic properties within the range of deformation rates corresponding to the production lines.