bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibacterial action of Chlorhexidine/thymol containing varnishes in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Jentsch HFR , Eckert F‐R , Eschrich K , Stratul S‐I , Kneist S
Published: April 2014

Objectives

The antibacterial activity of two different formulations of a chlorhexidine/thymol varnish should be elucidated in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

The agar diffusion assay with Cervitec® and CervitecPlus® and three reference strains each of streptococci, lactobacilli, actinomyces and periodontal pathogens was performed. In a split‐mouth study, 40 volunteers applied the test (CervitecPlus®, solvent water and ethanol) and control (Cervitec®, solvent ethyl acetate) varnish at buccal recessions of premolar teeth at baseline as well as after two, four and seven days. Supra‐ and subgingival plaques were collected 2 weeks before baseline and at the screening appointments. Supragingival plaque was analysed for mutans streptococci and lactobacilli and subgingival samples for Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Porphyromonas intermedia. Friedman/Wilcoxon tests and U‐test were used for statistical analysis (P < 0.05).

Results

Most reference strains were susceptible with inhibition zones (mm) as follows: Cervitec®/CervitecPlus® streptococci 27 ± 1.7/21.3 ± 2.5, lactobacilli 26 ± 9.2/23.7 ± 4.9, actinomyces 36.3 ± 6.6/27.3 ± 1.5, periodontal pathogens 18.7 ± 7.6/18 ± 1.7. Both varnishes reduced significantly the counts of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli in the patients. However, no significant differences were found between test and control sides at any time. The total counts of periodontal pathogens were low. A tendency to higher counts of A. actinomycetemcomitans at the control side could be shown; the test side did not harbour significantly higher counts.

Conclusion

Both varnishes may influence the plaque formation and reduce mutans streptococci in supragingival plaque.
Theory‐based approach to factors affecting ethical consumption
Authors: Oh Jong‐Chul , Yoon Sung‐Joon
Published: April 2014

The main objective of this study is to introduce and validate a new model of ethical consumption intention with the aim of identifying salient factors that influence consumer's attitude and purchase intention towards ethical products. For this purpose, this study introduces an extended model of the theory of reasoned action, which embraces the emotional component (positive anticipated affection) and socially oriented value component (altruism), as predictors of ethical consumption attitude and intention.

Using a questionnaire‐based survey, the data were collected from 343 respondents who had previously purchased ethical products. The result showed that ethical obligation, self‐identity and altruism were positively related to consumer attitude towards ethical consumption. Also, ethical obligation and altruism were found to positively influence ethical consumption intention. Further, attitude and positive‐anticipated affection positively affected ethical consumption intention.
Analysis of the promotion of cigarettes at the point of sale and its attractiveness to children
Authors: Pereira Inês , Veludo‐de‐Oliveira Tânia M.
Published: April 2014

Smoking habit seriously affects public health in a number of direct and indirect ways. The study reported here took place in Brazil and examined the promotional activities of the tobacco industry at the point of sale, with particular reference to their impact on children. Tobacco control policies are generally in place in developed countries, and smokers typically develop the habit while still young. Trained researchers visited a stratified sample of 429 retail outlets in the city of São Paulo, comprising the local equivalents of bars, snack bars, luncheonettes and pubs. Data for analysis were collected by direct observation at the point of sale and interviews with the person deemed to be in charge of the outlet visited. The results indicate that the tobacco industry is displaying its products within full view of children and making use of the sales' incentives offered to the retailer. The findings contribute significantly to the study of the effect of promotion at the point of sale on young smokers and can inform the policy debate on the increasing regulation of tobacco marketing promotional methods.
Exploring the social value of organic food: a qualitative study in France
Authors: Costa Sandrine , Zepeda Lydia , Sirieix Lucie
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether organic foods are used to signal social identity, class or status, i.e. if they have social value. Our analysis is based on two sociological approaches: Bourdieu's theory of social reproduction and symbolic interactionism. This paper analyses three research questions: (1) does organic food have social symbolism?; (2) does the social value of organic food depend on the venue where it is obtained?; (3) are other symbols associated with the social value of organic food? To answer these questions, we gather qualitative data from organic food shoppers' perceptions of the social value of organic food, using a qualitative study, with four group interviews in Montpellier (France) with a total of 20 participants. Results indicate that organic food has a social value for the participants in our group interviews. This social value depends on the venue (community‐supported agriculture, market or supermarket) where organic foods are purchased and also on whether consumers or producers exhibit additional green behaviours to validate their commitment to sustainability. Our results imply that a quantitative study on social value of organic food would be useful to investigate these findings in a larger sample since these findings have several marketing and advertising implications.
Skin dimples
Authors: Kumar Ajay , Kanojia Rajesh K. , Saili Arvind
Published: April 2014

Skin dimples are a common occurrence in children. Besides being of cosmetic significance, they may give an important clue to an underlying genetic or metabolic problem. A simplified location‐based algorithmic approach to diagnose the underlying cause of skin dimples is presented. Clinical significance of medically important dimples, especially sacral dimples, its association with occult spinal dysraphism, and a cost‐effective diagnostic strategy for its imaging is discussed.
Assessment of quality of life in patients with psoriasis: a study from Serbia
Authors: Milčić Danijela , Janković Slavenka , Vesić Sonja , Milinković Mirjana , Janković Janko
Published: April 2014

Background

Psoriasis has a substantial impact on patients' quality of life.

Objectives

The aims of this study were to assess the impact of the clinical severity of psoriasis on patients' quality of life and to determine the effects of psoriasis‐related stress on patients' everyday life.

Methods

The cross‐sectional study was conducted at the Institute of Dermatovenereology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade. The study included 201 patients (124 men and 77 women), aged 18–70 with a diagnosis of psoriasis, hospitalized or treated as outpatients during 2009. For the assessment of patients' quality of life, the psoriasis disability index (PDI) was used. The stress related to psoriasis was measured with the psoriasis life stress inventory (PLSI) and disease severity with the psoriasis area and severity index (PASI).

Results

We found moderate correlation between PLSI and all PDI subscales and overall score (correlation coefficients ranged from 0.334 to 0.521). The correlation between PASI and PDI subscales was weak, while we failed to find any significant correlation between PASI and the PLSI. The results of multiple regression analysis indicated that stress, more severe disease, and lower educational level are significant determining factors of a poorer quality of life in patients with psoriasis.

Conclusion

Our results support the importance of assessing the quality of life in psoriasis and effects of stress in patients' adjustment to their condition and may have important implications for a psychological stress management approach in the clinical management of psoriasis.
Comparative study of the effect of narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy plus methotrexate vs. narrowband ultraviolet B alone and methotrexate alone in the treatment of plaque‐type psoriasis
Authors: Al‐Hamamy Hayder R. , Al‐Mashhadani Sabeeh A. , Mustafa Ihsan N.
Published: April 2014

Background

Widespread psoriasis has great effects on life. Effective and rapid response in the treatment is needed. So this study was done to compare the efficacy of combined narrowband ultraviolet‐B (NBUVB) plus methotrexate (MTX) versus each one alone in the treatment of psoriasis.

Methods

A total of 120 patients with widespread plaque‐type psoriasis were enrolled, but only 113 patients completed the study. They were divided into three groups randomly, group MN (38) received NBUVB plus MTX, group N (38) received NBUVB alone, and group M (37) received MTX only. End point of treatment (clearance) was 90% reduction in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) Score or up to six months, whichever was earlier; follow‐up was done for one year.

Results

The mean number of weeks required for achieving clearance was 6.11 ± 1.28 weeks in group MN, 11.42 ± 2.36 weeks in group N, and 20.87 ± 4.21 weeks in group M (P < 0.0001). The mean number of phototherapy sessions was 17.86 ± 3.74 sessions in group MN, and 33.51 ± 6.9 sessions in group N (P < 0.0001). The mean total cumulative dose of NBUVB for achieving clearance was 12.13 ± 4.02 J/cm2 in group MN, compared with 34.48 ± 13.13 J/cm2 in group N (P < 0.0001), while the mean total cumulative dose of MTX was 116.04 ± 20.47 mg in group MN compared with 298.63 ± 60.26 mg in group M (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Combination of NBUVB plus MTX provided rapid improvement with less cumulative doses of both therapies compared with each one alone in the treatment of psoriasis.
Cost‐efficacy of biologic therapies for moderate to severe psoriasis from the perspective of the Taiwanese healthcare system
Authors: Wang Shu‐Hui , Chi Ching‐Chi , Hu Sindy
Published: April 2014

Background

Biologic therapies are more effective than conventional therapies in the treatment of psoriasis, but they are also more costly.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the cost‐efficacy of etanercept, adalimumab, and ustekinumab therapies in the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis in a Taiwanese setting.

Methods

We conducted a meta‐analysis of randomized, placebo‐controlled trials to calculate the incremental efficacy of etanercept, adalimumab, and ustekinumab, respectively, in affecting a reduction of ≥75% in score on the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 75). The base, best case, and worst case incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios (ICERs) for one subject to achieve PASI 75 were calculated for the purposes of economic analysis.

Results

One‐year ICERs per PASI 75 responder were US$ 39,709 (best scenario US$ 36,400; worst scenario US$ 43,680), US$ 23,711 (best scenario US$ 22,633; worst scenario US$ 25,319), and US$ 26,329 (best scenario US$ 24,780; worst scenario US$ 27,623) for etanercept, adalimumab, and ustekinumab, respectively. Two year ICERs per PASI 75 responder were US$ 71,973 (best scenario US$ 65,975; worst scenario US$ 79,170), US$ 62,665 (best scenario US$ 59,817; worst scenario US$ 66,914), and US$ 52,657 (best scenario US$ 49,560; worst scenario US$ 55,427) for etanercept, adalimumab, and ustekinumab, respectively.

Conclusions

In a Taiwanese setting, adalimumab and ustekinumab had lower 1‐year costs per PASI 75 responder than etanercept, and ustekinumab had the lowest 2‐year cost per PASI 75 responder.
The spectrum of skin diseases in a black population in Durban, KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa
Authors: Dlova Ncoza C. , Mankahla Avumile , Madala Nomandla , Grobler Anneke , Tsoka‐Gwegweni Joyce , Hift Richard J.
Published: April 2014

Background

Precise knowledge of the prevalence and spectrum of skin diseases in a population allows for effective planning for provision of dermatology services and distribution of resources. There are no published data on the epidemiology of skin disorders in Durban, KwaZulu‐Natal.

Objective

We investigated the prevalence of skin diseases in black African patients attending a predominantly black private healthcare facility and profiled the patients.

Methods

Clinical charts of all black African patients seen between January 2003 and December 2010 in a private practice in Durban were reviewed. The diseases seen were described and the prevalence calculated.

Results

A total of 6664 patient charts were reviewed. The five most common conditions were acne, eczemas, dyschromias, infections, and hair disorders. These data agree with reports from other parts of the world.

Limitations

Selection bias was presented by a single private practice, thus data may not be fully representative of our population.

Conclusion

Acne, eczemas, dyschromias, infections, and hair disorders are, in that order, the five most common disorders encountered.
Employers' attitudes towards long‐term unemployed people and the role of activation in Switzerland
Authors: Bonoli Giuliano
Published: April 2014

Over the last few years, most OECD countries have extended their activation policy to new groups of non‐working people, including the long‐term unemployed (LTU). However, it is widely known that employers tend to regard LTU people as potentially problematic persons. This is likely to constitute a major obstacle for long‐term unemployed jobseekers. On the basis of a survey among employers in a Swiss canton (N = 722), this article aims to shed light on the perception employers have of the long‐term unemployed and whether this may matter for their recruitment practices. It also asks what, from the employer point of view, may facilitate access to employment for an LTU person. A key finding is that large companies have a worse image of the long‐term unemployed and are less likely to hire them. Furthermore, independent of company size, a test period or the recommendation of a trustworthy person is seen as the factors most likely to facilitate access to jobs for LTU people.
PRELIMINARY TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS ON KNOSSIAN FAIENCE
Authors: PANAGIOTAKI MARINA
Published: April 2014

Summary This preliminary study of a large number of Knossian/Minoan faience objects in the Heraklion (HM) and the Ashmolean (AM) Museums presents observations about the technological development of Knossian faience throughout the life of the Palace. In earlier deposits, such as the Vat Room, simple inlays, beads, and a figure appear; faience became more complex in the succeeding period (Loomweight Basements) and reached its culmination in the Temple Repositories period, where complex inlays and vases and large‐scale figures appear.
NORTH SYRIAN METALWORKERS IN ARCHAIC GREEK SETTLEMENTS?
Authors: TREISTER MIKHAIL YU.
Published: April 2014

Summary The Syrian origin of a casting mould for jewellery found at Al Mina leads to a discussion of similar moulds of the same origin, including examples from East Greek sites, and of the jewellery types produced. The presence of Syrian craftsman adds force to arguments for the importance of Syrian products and workmanship in Greek orientalising art.
How do labour laws affect unemployment and the labour share of national income? The experience of six OECD countries, 1970–2010
Authors: DEAKIN Simon , MALMBERG Jonas , SARKAR Prabirjit
Published: April 2014

Using longitudinal data on labour law in France, Germany, Japan, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States over the period 1970–2010, the authors estimate the impact of labour regulation on unemployment and the labour share of national income. Their dynamic panel data analysis distinguishes between the short‐run and long‐run effects of regulatory change. They find that worker‐protective labour laws in general have no consistent relationship to unemployment but are positively correlated with labour's share of national income. Laws specifically relating to working time and employee representation are found to have beneficial effects on both efficiency and distribution thus proxied.
Deficit Irrigation and Organic Compost Improve Growth and Yield of Quinoa and Pea
Authors: Hirich A. , Choukr‐Allah R. , Jacobsen S.‐E.
Published: April 2014

Supplying organic matter under deficit irrigation conditions could be a practical solution to compensate the negative effect of water stress. For this purpose, studies in pea as a legume and quinoa as a new drought‐tolerant crop were conducted in the south of Morocco between October 2011 and March 2012. Three organic matter levels (0, 5 and 10 t ha−1) were supplied as compost amendment combined with 2 irrigation levels (50 and 100% of full irrigation). The results indicate that stomatal conductance and dry matter have been affected significantly (P < 0.05) only by deficit irrigation, while harvested yield was affected significantly (P < 0.05) by both deficit irrigation and organic manure. The highest seed yields (3.3 t ha−1 for quinoa and 5.6 t ha−1 for pea) were recorded under full irrigation and 10 t ha−1 of compost. Results indicated that organic amendment of 10 t ha−1 and 5 t ha−1 significantly (P ≤ 0.05) increased seed yield by 18 and 11% under stress conditions and by 13 and 3% under full irrigation for quinoa and by 24 and 11% under full irrigation and by 41 and 25% under water‐deficit irrigation for pea. It can be concluded that organic amendment improved significantly yield and biomass production better under deficit irrigation conditions than under full irrigation. Combining deficit irrigation and organic amendment led to the maximization of crop water productivity.
Relative resource allocation to dispersal and competition demonstrates the putative role of hybridity in geographical parthenogenesis
Authors: Coughlan Jennifer M. , Stefanović Saša , Dickinson Timothy A.
Published: April 2014

Aim

Asexual organisms frequently have larger ranges than their sexual progenitors, a phenomenon referred to as geographical parthenogenesis (GP). In plants, GP is associated not only with asexuality (apomixis), but also with polyploidization and hybridity (allopolyploidy). Dispersal is thought to play a role in range‐size differences in other taxa, but has not been directly related to GP. Here, we compare resource allocation to dispersal‐related traits in sexual diploids, asexual autopolyploids and asexual allopolyploids, and relate these differences to patterns of GP.

Location

The Pacific Northwest, North America.

Methods

We created distribution maps for all cytotypes known in Crataegus series Douglasianae using herbarium records. To quantify dispersal ability, we collected fruit samples from sexual diploids, apomictic allopolyploids and apomictic autopolyploids across their ranges, and used the masses of each fruit component as a proportion of the total fruit mass to gauge relative investment in dispersal and competitive ability.

Results

The largest ranges belong to apomictic allopolyploids, whereas apomictic autotriploids and sexual diploids have the smallest ranges. Compared to sexual diploids and apomictic autotriploids, the allotetraploids exhibit a more dispersal‐orientated strategy, with proportionally heavier pyrenes and more fruit pulp, but proportionally lighter seeds. Allotriploid taxa, which arose via back‐crosses between sexual diploids and asexual allotetraploids, exhibit an intermediate range size as well as intermediate investment in dispersal.

Main conclusions

In Crataegus series Douglasianae, GP is associated only with allopolyploids, highlighting the potential role of hybridization in range expansion. The data suggest that allopolyploids are associated with increased resource allocation to dispersal‐related traits, whereas sexual diploid C. suksdorfii and asexual autotriploid C. gaylussacia exhibit a more competition‐orientated strategy. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that hybridization contributes to patterns of GP in asexual allopolyploids, potentially by increasing their dispersal ability.
Uncovering overlooked island diversity: colonization and diversification of the medically important spider genus Loxosceles (Arachnida: Sicariidae) on the Canary Islands
Authors: Planas Enric , Ribera Carles
Published: April 2014

Aim

Our aim was to assess the evolutionary history of the spider genus Loxosceles on the Canary Islands. We unravelled its present diversity within the archipelago, and investigated its origin, mode and tempo of colonization to and between the islands using a phylogenetic framework.

Location

Canary Islands, Madeira, Iberian Peninsula, North Africa, Mediterranean region, Guinea.

Methods

We conducted extensive sampling across the Canary Islands, and examined the phylogenetic relationships among the Canary Island representatives of the genus Loxosceles and with regard to species from western Africa and the Mediterranean Basin. We used an evolutionary criterion (general mixed Yule coalescent) to delimit the evolutionary lineages, and applied fossil and biogeographical calibration points to estimate dates for major cladogenetic events within the Canary Islands using a Bayesian framework.

Results

Phylogenetic analyses revealed the existence of a well‐supported clade formed exclusively by Canarian Loxosceles specimens, comprising seven allopatrically distributed evolutionary lineages. Major dispersal events between the islands occurred during the late Miocene. Representatives of the cosmopolitan Loxosceles rufescens were also found on the archipelago.

Main conclusions

We have revealed the existence of an overlooked endemic group of medically important spiders. The pattern of diversity of this group fits well with the general dynamic theory of oceanic island biogeography, where maximum diversity is found on islands of intermediate age. The colonization pathway of the group is compatible with a stepping‐stone model. Between‐islands dispersal was the major driving force for diversification in the group, but a few within‐island speciation events were also inferred, such as on Gran Canaria, where the Roque Nublo volcanic event acted as a vicariant agent, promoting the split between the two Gran Canarian lineages. The recently introduced L. rufescens is cohabiting with the endemic lineages.
Serum Uric Acid Is Associated With Coronary Artery Calcification
Authors: Grossman Chagai , Shemesh Joseph , Koren‐Morag Nira , Bornstein Gil , Ben‐Zvi Ilan , Grossman Ehud
Published: April 2014

Uric acid (UA) is associated with atherosclerosis, and coronary artery calcium (CAC) is a marker of atherosclerosis. The authors studied the association between UA and CAC. A total of 663 asymptomatic patients (564 men; mean age, 55±7 years) were evaluated for the presence of CAC. The study population was divided into three tertiles according to their UA levels, and the prevalence of CAC was compared between the tertiles. CAC was detected in 349 (53%) patients. Levels of UA were significantly higher in those with CAC than in those without CAC (5.6+1.2 vs 5.3+1.3; P=.003). The odds ratio for the presence of CAC in the highest vs lowest UA tertile was 1.72 (95% confidence interval, 1.17–2.51). The highest UA tertile remained associated with the presence of CAC after adjustment for known cardiovascular risk factors. The results show that high serum UA levels are associated with the presence of CAC.
Playing smart vs. playing safe: the joint expression of phenotypic plasticity and potential bet hedging across and within thermal environments
Authors: Simons A. M.
Published: April 2014

Adaptive phenotypic plasticity evolves when cues reliably predict fitness consequences of life‐history decisions, whereas bet hedging evolves when environments are unpredictable. These modes of response should be jointly expressed, because environmental variance is composed of both predictable and unpredictable components. However, little attention has been paid to the joint expression of plasticity and bet hedging. Here, I examine the simultaneous expression of plasticity in germination rate and two potential bet‐hedging traits – germination fraction and within‐season diversification in timing of germination – in seeds from multiple seed families of five geographically distant populations of Lobelia inflata (L.) subjected to a thermal gradient. Populations differ in germination plasticity to temperature, in total germination fraction and in the expression of potential diversification in the timing of germination. The observation of a negative partial correlation between the expression of plasticity and germination variance (potential diversification), and a positive correlation between plasticity and germination fraction is suggestive of a trade‐off between modes of response to environmental variance. If the observed correlations are indicative of those between adaptive plasticity and bet hedging, we expect an optimal balance to exist and differ among populations. I discuss the challenges involved in testing whether the balance between plasticity and bet hedging depends on the relative predictability of environmental variance.
Photothermal microscopy: optical detection of small absorbers in scattering environments
Authors: VERMEULEN PIERRE , COGNET LAURENT , LOUNIS BRAHIM
Published: April 2014

Photothermal microscopy enables detection of nanometer‐sized objects solely based on their absorption. This technique allows efficient observation of various nano‐objects in scattering media notably gold nanoparticles in cells. The extreme sensitivity of the method and the stability of the signals open numerous applications in spectroscopy, analytical chemistry and bioimaging. This review briefly describes the principle and the main characteristics of photothermal microscopy, with its major advantages and limitations, and exposes the principal applications that have been carried out since its first implementation.
A novel INF2 mutation in a Korean family with autosomal dominant intermediate Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
Authors: Park Hyung J. , Kim Hye J. , Hong Young B. , Nam Soo H. , Chung Ki W. , Choi Byung‐Ok
Published: April 2014

Mutations in the inverted formin‐2 (INF2) gene were recently identified in patients with autosomal dominant intermediate Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth (DI‐CMT) disease and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). Here, we identified a novel p.L132P INF2 mutation in a Korean family with DI‐CMT and FSGS by whole‐exome sequencing. This mutation was cosegregated with affected individuals in the family and was not found in the 300 controls. The two affected members exhibited juvenile onset sensorimotor polyneuropathy and FSGS. Nerve conduction studies showed an intermediate range of motor nerve conduction velocities. We report a novel INF2 mutation in a family with DI‐CMT and FSGS as the first case in Koreans. The INF2 mutation appears to be a major cause of CMT with FSGS.
Exploratory genotype–phenotype correlations of facial form and asymmetry in unaffected relatives of children with non‐syndromic cleft lip and/or palate
Authors: Miller Steven F. , Weinberg Seth M. , Nidey Nichole L. , Defay David K. , Marazita Mary L. , Wehby George L. , Moreno Uribe Lina M.
Published: April 2014

Family relatives of children with nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (NSCL/P) who presumably carry a genetic risk yet do not manifest overt oral clefts, often present with distinct facial morphology of unknown genetic etiology. This study investigates distinct facial morphology among unaffected relatives and examines whether candidate genes previously associated with overt NSCL/P and left–right body patterning are correlated with such facial morphology. Cases were unaffected relatives of individuals with NSCL/P (n = 188) and controls (n = 194) were individuals without family history of NSCL/P. Cases and controls were genotyped for 20 SNPs across 13 candidate genes for NSCL/P (PAX7, ABCA4‐ARHGAP29, IRF6, MSX1, PITX2, 8q24, FOXE1, TGFB3 and MAFB) and left–right body patterning (LEFTY1, LEFTY2, ISL1 and SNAI1). Facial shape and asymmetry phenotypes were obtained via principal component analyses and Procrustes analysis of variance from 32 coordinate landmarks, digitized on 3D facial images. Case–control comparisons of phenotypes obtained were performed via multivariate regression adjusting for age and gender. Phenotypes that differed significantly (P < 0.05) between cases and controls were regressed on the SNPs one at a time. Cases had significantly (P < 0.05) more profile concavity with upper face retrusion, upturned noses with obtuse nasolabial angles, more protrusive chins, increased lower facial heights, thinner and more retrusive lips and more protrusive foreheads. Furthermore, cases showed significantly more directional asymmetry compared to controls. Several of these phenotypes were significantly associated with genetic variants (P < 0.05). Facial height and width were associated with SNAI1. Midface antero‐posterior (AP) projection was associated with LEFTY1. The AP position of the chin was related to SNAI1, IRF6, MSX1 and MAFB. The AP position of the forehead and the width of the mouth were associated with ABCA4–ARHGAP29 and MAFB. Lastly, facial asymmetry was related to LEFTY1, LEFTY2 and SNAI1. This study demonstrates that, genes underlying lip and palate formation and left–right patterning also contribute to facial features characteristic of the NSCL/P spectrum.
Rural Institutions in Flux: Lessons from Three Tanzanian Cotton‐Producing Villages
Authors: Bargawi Hannah
Published: April 2014

Policy and research on Tanzania's cotton sector has recently turned to the role of rural institutions in correcting for continued market failures. Current work has, however, not sufficiently addressed how the process of institutional change has proceeded on the ground. Given Tanzania's rich and complex colonial – and more recent ‘socialist’ – history, it is evident that the process of rural institutional change is not straightforward. This paper focuses on evidence from field research, conducted in 2006–7, from cotton‐producing villages in two regions in Tanzania. The paper explores the uneven ways in which the current and new institutional structures are exploited by producers and turns to Tanzania's rural and institutional history to explain these findings.
Donating Money to Get Money: The Role of Corporate Philanthropy in Stakeholder Reactions to IPOs
Authors: Jia Ming , Zhang Zhe
Published: April 2014

This study examines how stakeholders' investment time horizons interact with information about corporate giving in initial public offering (IPO) firms. Specifically, we build a model that explains how corporate philanthropy affects IPO performance. We find that at the IPO‐preparation stage, corporate giving is negatively related to underwriter prestige, venture capital investment, and IPO financing costs. We also find that at the IPO‐issuance stage, negative media coverage of IPOs moderates the U‐shaped relationship between corporate giving and market premiums. At the IPO‐trading stage, we find that corporate giving only positively influences the market premiums for IPO firms that are the subject of negative media reports. Our findings contribute to the signalling theory by showing how various stakeholders interpret the same signals differently, and they have implications for understanding how the relationship between corporate philanthropy and corporate financial performance materializes in the IPO markets.
Both head extension and mouth opening impair the ability to swallow in the supine position
Authors: Hanamoto H. , Kadono K. , Boku A. , Kudo C. , Morimoto Y. , Sugimura M. , Niwa H.
Published: April 2014

Head position and mouth opening in the supine position may impair the ability to swallow. If this does occur, it would lead to retention of intra‐oral fluids during dental treatment, which would lead to stimulation of the cough reflex. This study was conducted to investigate how head position and mouth opening affect swallowing ability. The water swallowing test was performed in 13 healthy adult subjects in the supine position. The subjects were asked to swallow 10 mL of water that was injected into the mouth in a single attempt. After swallowing, the residual intra‐oral water was suctioned and its volume was measured. An electromyogram (EMG) of the suprahyoid (SH) muscles was also recorded during the test. The duration of SH muscle activity and peak amplitude of SH EMG were examined. The water swallowing test was performed under three head positions (neutral, extended and flexed) and four mouth opening patterns (interincisal distances of 0, 20, 30 and 40 mm). The wider the subject opened the mouth, the more the water remained in the mouth after swallowing. The residual volume of water was more in the extended position compared with that in the neutral and flexed positions. Peak amplitude of SH EMG decreased with mouth opening. Duration of SH muscle activity was longer in the extended position than in the neutral and flexed positions. Head extension and mouth opening can induce difficulty in swallowing in the supine position by extending the duration of SH muscle activity while reducing its intensity.
Subjective sleepiness is a sensitive indicator of insufficient sleep and impaired waking function
Authors: Åkerstedt Torbjörn , Anund Anna , Axelsson John , Kecklund Göran
Published: April 2014

The main consequence of insufficient sleep is sleepiness. While measures of sleep latency, continuous encephalographical/electro‐oculographical (EEG/EOG) recording and performance tests are useful indicators of sleepiness in the laboratory and clinic, they are not easily implemented in large, real‐life field studies. Subjective ratings of sleepiness, which are easily applied and unobtrusive, are an alternative, but whether they measure sleepiness sensitively, reliably and validly remains uncertain. This review brings together research relevant to these issues. It is focused on the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale (KSS), which is a nine‐point Likert‐type scale. The diurnal pattern of sleepiness is U‐shaped, with high KSS values in the morning and late evening, and with great stability across years. KSS values increase sensitively during acute total and repeated partial sleep deprivation and night work, including night driving. The effect sizes range between 1.5 and 3. The relation to driving performance or EEG/EOG indicators of sleepiness is highly significant, strongly curvilinear and consistent across individuals. High (>6) KSS values are associated particularly with impaired driving performance and sleep intrusions in the EEG. KSS values are also increased in many clinical conditions such as sleep apnea, depression and burnout. The context has a strong influence on KSS ratings. Thus, physical activity, social interaction and light exposure will reduce KSS values by 1–2 units. In contrast, time‐on‐task in a monotonous context will increase KSS values by 1–2 units. In summary, subjective ratings of sleepiness as described here is as sensitive and valid an indicator of sleepiness as objective measures, and particularly suitable for field studies.
Gender Wage Gaps within a Public Sector: Evidence from Personnel Data
Authors: Bradley Steve , Green Colin , Mangan John
Published: April 2014

A standard finding is that the public sector exhibits lower gender wage gaps than the private sector. This is attributed to less gender discrimination in the public sector. We show that this conclusion is flawed as the standard finding for the public sector is driven by the dominating influence of large feminized occupational groups, such as nursing and teaching, which have flat job hierarchies and low wage variance. Other occupations within the public sector exhibit sizeable wage gaps which cannot be explained by workplace or worker characteristics. This implies that gender discrimination is substantial in some public sector occupations.
The catabolic enzyme methionine gamma‐lyase limits methionine accumulation in potato tubers
Authors: Huang Tengfang , Joshi Vijay , Jander Georg
Published: April 2014

Increasing methionine in potato tubers is desirable, both to increase the availability of this limiting essential amino acid and to enhance the aroma of baked and fried potatoes. Previous attempts to elevate potato methionine content using transgenic approaches have focused on increasing methionine biosynthesis. Higher isoleucine accumulation in these transgenic tubers suggested that the potatoes compensate for increased methionine biosynthesis with enhanced catabolism via methionine gamma‐lyase (MGL), thereby producing 2‐ketybutyrate for isoleucine biosynthesis. In the current study, we show that potato StMGL1 encodes a functional MGL in potato tubers. In planta silencing of StMGL1 results in an increased methionine to isoleucine ratio in the free amino acid profile of potato tubers and, in some transgenic lines, elevated accumulation of free methionine. In both wild‐type and transgenic tubers, the ratio of methionine to isoleucine is negatively correlated with the level of StMGL1 transcript. A three‐dimensional distribution of free amino acids in potato tubers is also described.
Resistance and systemic dispersal of Xanthomonas fragariae in strawberry germplasm (Fragaria L.)
Authors: Bestfleisch M. , Richter K. , Wensing A. , Wünsche J.N. , Hanke M.‐V. , Höfer M. , Schulte E. , Flachowsky H.
Published: April 2014

The angular leaf spot disease caused by Xanthomonas fragariae is an important plant disease with major impact for the strawberry nursery industry. Currently there is no plant protection product available for controlling the disease effectively. Planting of resistant cultivars seems to be promising, but all commercially used cultivars are susceptible and no donor with a high level of resistance has yet been found. Therefore, a total of 145 genotypes from the Fruit Genebank Dresden (Germany) were evaluated for resistance to X. fragariae by artificial inoculation. Six genotypes were classified as partly resistant, out of which only two (US4808 and US4809) are octoploid. Fragaria vesca f. alba, Fragaria nilgerrensis ‘Yunnan’, F. vesca ‘Illa Martin’ and F. moschata ‘Bauwens’ were also classified as partially resistant, but they are only of limited use for breeding because of their variable ploidy level. Fully resistant genotypes could not be detected. The systemic dispersal of the bacteria in strawberry plants was investigated after inoculation of leaves with X. fragariae strain XF3.9.C and the GFP‐tagged strain XF3.9.C(pKAN). The systemic spread was evaluated after 3, 7, 14 and 28 days post‐inoculation (dpi) by nested PCR and fluorescence microscopy. After 3 dpi, X. fragariae could be found in all tissues tested including the inoculated leaf, its petiole, the rhizome, the heart bud up to the youngest fully expanded leaf and its petiole. The systemic spread was also detectable in partially resistant genotypes.
Acute focal infections of dental origin
Authors: Olsen Ingar , van Winkelhoff Arie J.
Published: April 2014

This article describes the most important pus‐producing acute oral infections (dental infections) that can spread extra‐orally. Most of these infections are spread by bacteria entering the bloodstream. However, dental infections have a number of other pathways for dissemination. By forming abscesses or phlegmon they can reach facial spaces that communicate with each other and then spread downwards to the mediastinum or upwards to the brain. In such cases dental infections can become, if not properly treated, life‐threatening. It seems that early diagnosis and treatment are imperative, and potentially infectious foci should be traced and eliminated. Dental hygiene and prophylaxis to prevent dental biofilm formation are important measures to reduce the risk of these calamities. The more compromised the host defense is, the more importance should be put on these measures. Although commensal bacteria are often involved in these infections, attention should also be paid to specific periodontal pathogens, and a proper microbial diagnosis, obtained using molecular methods plus bacterial sensitivity testing, can provide the patient with optimal care. Drainage of pus must be established where possible so that the optimal effect of antibiotics can be achieved. Penicillin is still the drug of first choice in settings where suspicion of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus is low.
Treatment of aggressive periodontitis
Authors: Teughels Wim , Dhondt Rutger , Dekeyser Christel , Quirynen Marc
Published: April 2014

Despite etiological differences between aggressive and chronic periodontitis, the treatment concept for aggressive periodontitis is largely similar to that for chronic periodontitis. The goal of treatment is to create a clinical condition that is conducive to retaining as many teeth as possible for as long as possible. When a diagnosis has been made and risk factors have been identified, active treatment is commenced. The initial phase of active treatment consists of mechanical debridement, either alone or supplemented with antimicrobial drugs. Scaling and root planing has been shown to be effective in improving clinical indices, but does not always guarantee long‐term stability. Antimicrobials can play a significant role in controlling aggressive periodontitis. Few studies have been published on this subject for localized aggressive periodontitis, but generalized aggressive periodontitis has been subject to more scrutiny. Studies have demonstrated that systemic antibiotics as an adjuvant to scaling and root planing are more effective in controlling disease compared with scaling and root planing alone or with supplemental application of local antibiotics or antiseptics. It has also become apparent that antibiotics ought to be administered with, or just after, mechanical debridement. Several studies have shown that regimens of amoxicillin combined with metronidazole or regimens of clindamycin are the most effective and are preferable to regimens containing doxycycline. Azithromycin has been shown to be a valid alternative to the regimen of amoxicillin plus metronidazole. A limited number of studies have been published on surgical treatment in patients with aggressive periodontitis, but the studies available show that the effect can be comparable with the effect on patients with chronic periodontitis, provided that proper oral hygiene is maintained, a strict maintenance program is followed and modifiable risk factors are controlled. Both access surgery and regenerative techniques have shown good results in patients with aggressive periodontitis. Once good periodontal health has been obtained, patients must be enrolled in a strict maintenance program that is directed toward controlling risk factors for disease recurrence and tooth loss. The most significant risk factors are noncompliance with regular maintenance care, smoking, high gingival bleeding index and poor plaque control. There is no evidence to suggest that daily use of antiseptic agents should be part of the supportive periodontal therapy for aggressive periodontitis.
Acute periodontal lesions
Authors: Herrera David , Alonso Bettina , de Arriba Lorenzo , Santa Cruz Isabel , Serrano Cristina , Sanz Mariano
Published: April 2014

This review provides updates on acute conditions affecting the periodontal tissues, including abscesses in the periodontium, necrotizing periodontal diseases and other acute conditions that cause gingival lesions with acute presentation, such as infectious processes not associated with oral bacterial biofilms, mucocutaneous disorders and traumatic and allergic lesions. A periodontal abscess is clinically important because it is a relatively frequent dental emergency, it can compromise the periodontal prognosis of the affected tooth and bacteria within the abscess can spread and cause infections in other body sites. Different types of abscesses have been identified, mainly classified by their etiology, and there are clear differences between those affecting a pre‐existing periodontal pocket and those affecting healthy sites. Therapy for this acute condition consists of drainage and tissue debridement, while an evaluation of the need for systemic antimicrobial therapy will be made for each case, based on local and systemic factors. The definitive treatment of the pre‐existing condition should be accomplished after the acute phase is controlled. Necrotizing periodontal diseases present three typical clinical features: papilla necrosis, gingival bleeding and pain. Although the prevalence of these diseases is not high, their importance is clear because they represent the most severe conditions associated with the dental biofilm, with very rapid tissue destruction. In addition to bacteria, the etiology of necrotizing periodontal disease includes numerous factors that alter the host response and predispose to these diseases, namely HIV infection, malnutrition, stress or tobacco smoking. The treatment consists of superficial debridement, careful mechanical oral hygiene, rinsing with chlorhexidine and daily re‐evaluation. Systemic antimicrobials may be used adjunctively in severe cases or in nonresponding conditions, being the first option metronidazole. Once the acute disease is under control, definitive treatment should be provided, including appropriate therapy for the pre‐existing gingivitis or periodontitis. Among other acute conditions affecting the periodontal tissues, but not caused by the microorganisms present in oral biofilms, infectious diseases, mucocutaneous diseases and traumatic or allergic lesions can be listed. In most cases, the gingival involvement is not severe; however, these conditions are common and may prompt an emergency dental visit. These conditions may have the appearance of an erythematous lesion, which is sometimes erosive. Erosive lesions may be the direct result of trauma or a consequence of the breaking of vesicles and bullae. A proper differential diagnosis is important for adequate management of the case.
Effects of simulated domestic and international air travel on sleep, performance, and recovery for team sports
Authors: Fowler P. , Duffield R. , Vaile J.
Published: April 2014

The present study examined effects of simulated air travel on physical performance. In a randomized crossover design, 10 physically active males completed a simulated 5‐h domestic flight (DOM), 24‐h simulated international travel (INT), and a control trial (CON). The mild hypoxia, seating arrangements, and activity levels typically encountered during air travel were simulated in a normobaric, hypoxic altitude room. Physical performance was assessed in the afternoon of the day before (D − 1 PM) and in the morning (D + 1 AM) and afternoon (D + 1 PM) of the day following each trial. Mood states and physiological and perceptual responses to exercise were also examined at these time points, while sleep quantity and quality were monitored throughout each condition. Sleep quantity and quality were significantly reduced during INT compared with CON and DOM (P < 0.01). Yo‐Yo Intermittent Recovery level 1 test performance was significantly reduced at D + 1 PM following INT compared with CON and DOM (P < 0.01), where performance remained unchanged (P > 0.05). Compared with baseline, physiological and perceptual responses to exercise, and mood states were exacerbated following the INT trial (P < 0.05). Attenuated intermittent‐sprint performance following simulated international air travel may be due to sleep disruption during travel and the subsequent exacerbated physiological and perceptual markers of fatigue.