bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An evaluation of performance arts in generating business value
Authors: Harwood Tracy , Smith Sophy
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the findings from research that explores the business value of a performance arts-based initiative in supporting change management through devising. Devising is a process that encompasses improvisation to generate social interaction within a community of practice.

Design/methodology/approach

A novel approach is reported on: a case study that includes interviews with key members of partner organizations, representing a business, a performance producer and a commissioning agency, participant observation of a member of the performance production film and the devising process.

Findings

Findings presented highlight phases of the devising process and the engagement with the creative practices employed. Findings highlight that benefits emerge through the reflexive nature of activities during the processes of creating the performance, as well as reflection on the final performance piece.

Research limitations/implications

Case study research is necessarily a qualitative design that is not generalizable to a broader population. Findings do, however, highlight potentially useful practices that may be further developed for future research.

Practical implications

Performance arts has pushed previously untested boundaries in employee engagement within the business, resulting in deep understanding between managers and employees on how value may be co-created and redeployed across the business.

Originality/value

The paper extends the application of improvisation by situating it within the creative practice of devising. This enables performance to be critically examined as an arts-based initiative within business contexts.
Functions of intermediaries in arts-based cooperations
Authors: Sandberg Berit
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Arts-based cooperations between business and the arts create innovative solutions for companies by introducing artistic practices. Cooperations of this nature are predominantly prepared and implemented by intermediaries who act as “matchmakers” and bridge the cultural clash. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

For the present study on the function of such intermediaries, qualitative data material from interviews and case studies on arts-based cooperations was collected and analysed.

Findings

This paper analyses the results from an institutional economics perspective. By drawing on transaction cost theory and information economics, the findings are transformed into an intermediation theory of arts-based cooperations. The theory postulates that intermediaries are able to reduce transaction costs as well as the risks which are contingent on asymmetric information. Involving an intermediary produces cost advantages compared to direct contact between companies and artists.

Originality/value

The analysis illuminates an important but heretofore neglected aspect of arts-based initiatives thus providing an indication for their successful implementation.
Impact and OperaScotland, the listings and archive website
Authors: Fraser Peter James , Fraser Iain Simon , Fraser Stephen
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to reflect on the creation of a performing arts archive website, exploring impact in relation to the marketing and promotion of opera and understanding of opera history.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper sets out a case study reflection in relation to a social enterprise in the arts.

Findings

The paper confirms that development of a specialist or niche website is a slow process requiring significant effort and resource. Promotion draws on a variety of activities including networking, face-to-face selling, word of mouth and use of new media.

Research limitations/implications

The paper summarises participant experience of launching a hobby website in the cultural sector. Constraints such as patchiness of coverage are noted together with the need for collaboration. Finally, qualitative examples of impact are identified and discussed to indicate directions for further development and research.

Practical implications

A case study offering insights and potential learning points for those considering such projects or in similar positions.

Originality/value

The project described is unique yet addresses a research problem noted by many. The paper highlights some areas for future collaboration and research both nationally and internationally.
Critical reflections on performing arts impact evaluations
Authors: Williams-Burnett Nicola Jayne , Skinner Heather
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a critically reflective account of the process of conducting an impact evaluation of a dance-theatre company’s staged productions and workshops.

Design/methodology/approach

There are two main approaches: the introspective critical reflection on the process of performing an impact evaluation; and the drawing/colouring methods used to perform it.

Findings

It is more difficult to provide impact evaluations of the soft rather than hard outcomes of publicly funded performance arts. The engagement of third-party evaluators may help overcome the challenge that many “accepted” approaches are outwith the skill or financial resources of smaller non-profit organisations.

Research limitations/implications

Although based on a single case, the authors believe that the evidence how the use of innovative methodologies may be more appropriate to performing arts impact evaluations, even those less familiar to management researchers.

Practical implications

This paper offers insights into various methods of impact evaluation that may be of use to smaller non-profit arts organisations who may be constrained by limited skills and financial resources.

Originality/value

This paper provides an original contribution to understanding innovative methodologies to perform arts impact evaluations, particularly those assessing soft outcomes, and a contribution in recognising the role of academic researchers in performing such evaluations.
What’s in a thang? Dancing to brand image with Miley Cyrus’ multimodal dance spectacle
Authors: Rossolatos George
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to scrutinize how Miley Cyrus’ brand values are projected through the multimodal semiotic structure of the live performance of the song Do my thang (from the Bangerz album (2013)).

Design/methodology/approach

Sociosemiotic conceptual framework in conjunction with an interpretive videographic method of analysis, facilitated by the multimodal qualitative discourse analytic software ATLAS.ti.

Findings

Four major territories were identified as regards the spectacle’s latent axiology, namely, freeplay, polymorphous sexuality, neo-burlesque, and hyperdifferentiation.

Practical implications

Attending to structural couplings between signs and modes in the context of bespoke artists’ brand languages constitutes a priority for managing an artist as brand, and, concomitantly, for safeguarding relevance for a fandom. A multimodal reading grid is offered to this end.

Originality/value

From a branding point of view, this study constitutes the first one that theorizes the live show spectacle as the manifest discourse whereupon brand image and brand values are edified, with an emphasis on the dance mode, over and above the verbal/visual modes that dominate the advertising/branding literatures.
The many faces of fear: a synthesis of the methodological variation in characterizing predation risk
Authors: Moll Remington J. , Redilla Kyle M. , Mudumba Tutilo , Muneza Arthur B. , Gray Steven M. , Abade Leandro , Hayward Matt W. , Millspaugh Joshua J. , Montgomery Robert A.
Published: April 2017

Predators affect prey by killing them directly (lethal effects) and by inducing costly antipredator behaviours in living prey (risk effects). Risk effects can strongly influence prey populations and cascade through trophic systems. A prerequisite for assessing risk effects is characterizing the spatiotemporal variation in predation risk.

Risk effects research has experienced rapid growth in the last several decades. However, preliminary assessments of the resultant literature suggest that researchers characterize predation risk using a variety of techniques. The implications of this methodological variation for inference and comparability among studies have not been well recognized or formally synthesized.

We couple a literature survey with a hierarchical framework, developed from established theory, to quantify the methodological variation in characterizing risk using carnivore–ungulate systems as a case study. Via this process, we documented 244 metrics of risk from 141 studies falling into at least 13 distinct subcategories within three broader categories.

Both empirical and theoretical work suggest risk and its effects on prey constitute a complex, multi‐dimensional process with expressions varying by spatiotemporal scale. Our survey suggests this multi‐scale complexity is reflected in the literature as a whole but often underappreciated in any given study, which complicates comparability among studies and leads to an overemphasis on documenting the presence of risk effects rather than their mechanisms or scale of influence.

We suggest risk metrics be placed in a more concrete conceptual framework to clarify inference surrounding risk effects and their cascading effects throughout ecosystems. We recommend studies (i) take a multi‐scale approach to characterizing risk; (ii) explicitly consider ‘true’ predation risk (probability of predation per unit time); and (iii) use risk metrics that facilitate comparison among studies and the evaluation of multiple competing hypotheses. Addressing the pressing questions in risk effects research, including how, to what extent and on what scale they occur, requires leveraging the advantages of the many methods available to characterize risk while minimizing the confusion caused by variability in their application.
Clinical impact of inflammation in dry eye disease: proceedings of the ODISSEY group meeting
Authors: Baudouin Christophe , Irkeç Murat , Messmer Elisabeth M. , Benítez‐del‐Castillo José M. , Bonini Stefano , Figueiredo Francisco C. , Geerling Gerd , Labetoulle Marc , Lemp Michael , Rolando Maurizio , Van Setten Gysbert , Aragona Pasquale ,   ODISSEY European Consensus Group Members
Published: April 2017

Dry eye disease (DED) is a common, multifactorial ocular condition with major impact on vision and quality of life. It is now well recognized that the pathophysiology of chronic DED can include a cycle of inflammation involving both innate and adaptive immune responses. Recently, in vitro/in vivo models have been used to obtain a better understanding of DED‐related inflammatory processes at molecular/cellular levels although they do not truly reproduce the complex and chronic hallmarks of human DED. In clinical DED research, advanced techniques such as impression cytology, conjunctival biopsy, in vivo confocal microscopy and multiplex tear analyses have allowed an improved assessment of inflammation in DED patients. This was supported by the identification of reliable inflammatory markers including matrix metalloproteinase‐9, human leucocyte antigen‐DR or intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 in tears and impression cytology samples. One of the current therapeutic strategies focuses on breaking the inflammatory cycle perpetuating the ocular surface disease, and preclinical/clinical research has led to the development of promising anti‐inflammatory compounds. For instance, cyclosporine, already approved in the United States, has recently been authorized in Europe to treat DED associated with severe keratitis. In addition, other agents such as corticosteroids, doxycycline and essential fatty acids, through their anti‐inflammatory properties, show encouraging results. We now have a clearer understanding of the inflammatory processes involved in DED, and there is hope that the still emerging preclinical/clinical findings will be translated into new and highly effective therapies for patients in the near future.
Observer variability identifying attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder in 10‐year‐old children born extremely preterm
Authors: Leviton Alan , Hunter Scott J. , Scott Megan N. , Hooper Stephen R. , Joseph Robert M. , O'Shea Thomas Michael , Allred Elizabeth N. , Kuban Karl
Published: April 2017

Aim

A DSM‐5 diagnosis of attention deficit/hyperactive disorder (ADHD) requires that symptoms be present in two settings. We wanted to see how teachers and parents compare on their assessments.

Methods

We evaluated how well Child Symptom Inventory‐4 (CSI‐4) reports from 871 parents and 634 teachers of 10‐year‐old children born before the 28th week of gestation provided information about indicators of school dysfunction.

Results

Kappa values for parent and teacher agreement of any ADHD were at best fair to poor (<0.41). Nevertheless, ADHD identified by each alone provided a moderate amount of information about such indicators of school dysfunction as grade repetition. Only occasionally did agreement provide more information than provided by only one reporter. Mother's social class and intelligence level did not discriminate between parents who did and did not agree with the teacher.

Conclusion

ADHD identified by a single observer can provide appreciable information about a range of the child's functions needed for success in school and, therefore, should not be discounted when another observer does not consider the child to have ADHD symptoms.
Non‐ignorable missingness item response theory models for choice effects in examinee‐selected items
Authors: Liu Chen‐Wei , Wang Wen‐Chung
Published: April 2017

Examinee‐selected item (ESI) design, in which examinees are required to respond to a fixed number of items in a given set, always yields incomplete data (i.e., when only the selected items are answered, data are missing for the others) that are likely non‐ignorable in likelihood inference. Standard item response theory (IRT) models become infeasible when ESI data are missing not at random (MNAR). To solve this problem, the authors propose a two‐dimensional IRT model that posits one unidimensional IRT model for observed data and another for nominal selection patterns. The two latent variables are assumed to follow a bivariate normal distribution. In this study, the mirt freeware package was adopted to estimate parameters. The authors conduct an experiment to demonstrate that ESI data are often non‐ignorable and to determine how to apply the new model to the data collected. Two follow‐up simulation studies are conducted to assess the parameter recovery of the new model and the consequences for parameter estimation of ignoring MNAR data. The results of the two simulation studies indicate good parameter recovery of the new model and poor parameter recovery when non‐ignorable missing data were mistakenly treated as ignorable.
Virtual screening and biological evaluation of novel antipyretic compounds
Authors: Froes Thamires Quadros , Melo Miriam C. C. , Souza Gloria E. P. , Castilho Marcelo Santos , Soares Denis M.
Published: April 2017

Due to the absence of safety of the antipyretics to patients with cardiovascular dysfunction, new targets to treat inflammation have been pursued. mPGES‐1 is a promising target because its inhibition would not cause the side‐effects related to COX inhibition. To identify novel inhibitors of mPGES‐1, we developed a ligand‐based pharmacophore model that differentiates true inhibitors from decoys and enlightens the structure‐activity relationships for known mPGES‐1 inhibitors. The model (four hydrophobic centers, two hydrogen bond acceptor and two hydrogen bond donor points) was employed to select lead‐like compounds from ZINC database for in vivo evaluation. Among the 18 compounds selected, five inhibited the fever induced by LPS. The most potent compound (5‐(4‐fluorophenyl)‐3‐({6‐methylimidazo[1,2‐a]pyridin‐2‐yl}methyl)‐2,3dihydro‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐one) is active peripherally (i.v.) or centrally (i.c.v.) (82.18% and 112% reduction, respectively) and reduces (69.13%) hypothalamic PGE2 production, without significant COX‐1/2 inhibition. In conclusion, our in silico approach leads to the selection of a compound that presents the chemical features to inhibit mPGES‐1 and reduces fever induced by LPS. Furthermore, the in vivo and in vitro results support the hypothesis that its mechanism of action does not depend on COX inhibition. Hence, it can be considered a promising lead compound for antipyretic development, once it would not have the side‐effects of COX‐1/2 inhibitors.
Design, synthesis, and evaluation of novel Akt1 inhibitors based on an indole scaffold
Authors: Yang Dezhi , Tong Dongdong , Zhang Qian , Wang Yongtao , Sun Jing , Zhang Fenghe , Zhao Guisen
Published: April 2017

A new series of potential Akt1 inhibitors with indole scaffold were designed and synthesized. The antiproliferative activity against PC‐3 cell line and enzyme inhibitory activity against Akt1 were evaluated. Among them, some compounds showed much more potent antiproliferative activity and stronger Akt1 inhibitory activity compared to the positive control of GSK690693. In particular, compound 19b exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity against Akt1 with inhibition rate of 70.3% at a concentration of 10 nm. Furthermore, compound 19b could dose dependently reduce the phosphorylation of the downstream GSK3β protein in the PC‐3 cell line and displayed fivefold higher antiproliferative activity against PC‐3 cell line with IC50 value of 3.1 ± 0.1 μm than positive control (15.5 ± 0.4 μm). Herein, compound 19b may serve as a promising lead for further optimization and development of novel Akt1 inhibitors based on an indole scaffold.
The anti‐Trichomonas vaginalis phloroglucinol derivative isoaustrobrasilol B modulates extracellular nucleotide hydrolysis
Authors: Menezes Camila Braz , Rigo Graziela Vargas , Bridi Henrique , Trentin Danielle da Silva , Macedo Alexandre José , von Poser Gilsane Lino , Tasca Tiana
Published: April 2017

Trichomonas vaginalis causes trichomoniasis, a neglected sexually transmitted disease. Due to severe health consequences and treatment failure, new therapeutic alternatives are crucial. Phloroglucinols from southern Brazilian Hypericum species demonstrated anti‐T. vaginalis and anti‐Leishmania amazonensis activities. The modulation of biochemical pathways involved in the control of inflammatory response by ectonucleotidases, NTPDase, and ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase represents new targets for combating protozoa. This study investigated the activity of phloroglucinol derivatives of Hypericum species from southern Brazil against T. vaginalis as well as its ability on modulating parasite ectonucleotidases and, consequently, immune parameters through ATP and adenosine effects. Phloroglucinol derivatives screening revealed activity for isoaustrobrasilol B (IC50 38 μm) with no hemolytic activity. Although the most active compound induced cytotoxicity against a mammalian cell lineage, the in vivo model evidenced absence of toxicity. Isoaustrobrasilol B significantly inhibited NTPDase and ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase activities, and the immune modulation attributed to extracellular nucleotide accumulation was evaluated. The production of ROS and IL‐6 by T. vaginalis‐stimulated neutrophils was not affected by the treatment. Conversely, IL‐8 levels were significantly enhanced. The associative mechanism of trophozoites death and ectonucleotidases modulation by isoaustrobrasilol B may increase the susceptibility of T. vaginalis to host innate immune cell like neutrophils consequently, contributing to parasite clearance.
High fractional exhaled nitric oxide and sputum eosinophils are associated with an increased risk of future virus‐induced exacerbations: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Bjerregaard A. , Laing I. A. , Backer V. , Sverrild A. , Khoo S.‐K. , Chidlow G. , Sikazwe C. , Smith D. W. , Le Souëf P. , Porsbjerg C.
Published: April 2017

Background

The major trigger of asthma exacerbations is infection with a respiratory virus, most commonly rhinovirus. Type 2 inflammation is known to be associated with an increased risk of exacerbations in general. Whether type 2 inflammation at baseline increases the risk of future virus‐induced exacerbations is unknown.

Objective

To assess whether type 2 inflammation is associated with an increased risk of virus‐induced exacerbations of asthma.

Methods

Stable asthmatics had spirometry, skin prick test, measurement of FeNO and sputum induced for differential cell counts. Patients were followed up for 18 months, during which they were assessed at the research unit when they had symptoms of an exacerbation. Nasal swabs collected at these assessments underwent viral detection by PCR.

Results

A total of 81 asthma patients were recruited, of which 22 (27%) experienced an exacerbation during the follow‐up period. Of these, 15 (68%) had a respiratory virus detected at exacerbation. Sputum eosinophils >1% at baseline increased the risk of having a subsequent virus‐induced exacerbation (HR 7.6 95% CI: 1.6‐35.2, P=.010) as did having FeNO >25 ppb (HR 3.4 95% CI: 1.1‐10.4, P=.033).

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

Established type 2 inflammation during stable disease is a risk factor for virus‐induced exacerbations in a real‐life setting. Measures of type 2 inflammation, such as sputum eosinophils and FeNO, could be included in the risk assessment of patients with asthma in future studies.
PGAP3‐related hyperphosphatasia with mental retardation syndrome: Report of 10 new patients and a homozygous founder mutation
Authors: Abdel‐Hamid M.S. , Issa M.Y. , Otaify G.A. , Abdel‐Ghafar S.F. , Elbendary H.M. , Zaki M.S.
Published: April 2017

Background

Hyperphosphatasia with mental retardation syndrome (HPMRS) is caused by recessive mutations in genes involved in the glycosylphosphatidylinsitol pathway, including PGAP3.

Materials and Methods

We describe 10 patients from 8 Egyptian families presenting with developmental delay, severe intellectual disability, distinct facial dysmorphism and increased alkaline phosphatase. Sanger sequencing of PGAP3 was performed.

Results

Eight patients had cleft palate, 4 had postnatal microcephaly and 5 had seizures. Neuro‐imaging findings showed thin corpus callosum in 9 patients, mild ventriculomegaly in 3 patients and variable degrees of cerebellar vermis hypoplasia in 4 patients, a finding not previously reported in patients with HPMRS. Additional manifestations included double row teeth, hypogenitalism and congenital heart disease. Biallelic loss of function mutations in the PGAP3 gene were detected in all patients. Nine patients were homozygous for the c.402dupC (p.M135Hfs*28) mutation strongly suggesting a founder effect. On the other hand, 1 patient had a novel mutation, c.817_820delGACT (p.D273Sfs*37).

Conclusion

This is the largest series of patients with HPMRS from same ethnic group. Our results reinforce the distinct clinical and facial features of PGAP3‐related HPMRS which are the clue for targeted genetic testing. Moreover, we present additional unreported clinical and neuro‐imaging findings and a novel mutation thus expanding the phenotypic and mutational spectrum of this rare disorder.
Defining Social Inclusion for Children with Disabilities: A Critical Literature Review
Authors: Koller Donna , Pouesard Morgane Le , Rummens Joanna Anneke
Published: April 2017

Social inclusion is a complex and often misunderstood concept. For children with disabilities, research has documented the degree of loneliness, bullying and exclusion they often experience in their social lives. This paper presents the findings of a critical literature review on the social inclusion of children with disabilities. Study methods comprised rigorous criteria for study selection followed by established protocols for evaluating studies. Reputable rating scales were used to examine peer‐reviewed research published within the last 10 years. Fifty‐four studies were analyzed for essential themes. Findings reflect a broad range of stakeholder perspectives and factors that promote or inhibit social inclusion, including child‐specific variables as well as environmental influences. Additional research should focus on the perspectives and experiences of children in inclusive settings, particularly those with disabilities, as a means of safeguarding their future social and emotional well‐being.
Ecosystem‐Based Fisheries Management for Social–Ecological Systems: Renewing the Focus in the United States with Next Generation Fishery Ecosystem Plans
Authors: Marshall Kristin N. , Levin Phillip S. , Essington Timothy E. , Koehn Laura E. , Anderson Lee G. , Bundy Alida , Carothers Courtney , Coleman Felicia , Gerber Leah R. , Grabowski Jonathan H. , Houde Edward , Jensen Olaf P. , Möllmann Christian , Rose Kenneth , Sanchirico James N. , Smith Anthony D.M.
Published: April 2017

Resource managers and policy makers have long recognized the importance of considering fisheries in the context of ecosystems; yet, movement towards widespread Ecosystem‐based Fisheries Management (EBFM) has been slow. A conceptual reframing of fisheries management is occurring globally, which envisions fisheries as systems with interacting biophysical and human subsystems. This broader view, along with a process for decision making, can facilitate implementation of EBFM. A pathway to achieve these broadened objectives of EBFM in the United States is a Fishery Ecosystem Plan (FEP). The first generation of FEPs was conceived in the late 1990s as voluntary guidance documents that Regional Fishery Management Councils could adopt to develop and guide their ecosystem‐based fisheries management decisions, but few of these FEPs took concrete steps to implement EBFM. Here, we emphasize the need for a new generation of FEPs that provide practical mechanisms for putting EBFM into practice in the United States. We argue that next‐generation FEPs can balance environmental, economic, and social objectives—the triple bottom line—to improve long‐term planning for fishery systems.
Antibiotic stewardship: The need to reduce antibiotics in acne treatment
Authors: Gollnick Harald P. M. , Buer Jan , Beissert Stefan , Sunderkätter Cord
Published: April 2017

Excessive or uncritical worldwide use of antibiotics in medicine has accelerated the selection and spread of resistant bacteria. In some areas many antibiotics have become ineffective for infections which had previously been well susceptible to antibacterial agents. Dermato‐venereologists have used oral and topical antibiotics routinely to treat acne vulgaris, although acne is neither an infectious disease nor triggered exclusively by Propionibacterium. It is rather a complex chronic inflammatory skin disorder based on multiple pathogenic factors including follicular hyperkeratinization, increased sebum production, bacterial proliferation and inflammation. Consequently, effective treatment should target multiple pathogenic factors instead of primarily Propionibacterium acnes. Therefore, topical retinoids and benzoyl peroxide have been defined as the standard first‐line drugs. Monotherapy with local antibiotics should be avoided altogether. Systemic antibiotics of the tetracycline group still have their indication in certain stages of acne, but their efficacy may be based rather on anti‐inflammatory than antibiotic actions. Health authorities are urging all healthcare providers to limit antibiotic use. The risk‐benefit ratio must be carefully observed between the need for antibiotic treatment in the individual patient and the public interest in preserving the effectiveness of antibiotics. Here we summarize the current concept of acne vulgaris and its consequences for the use of antibiotics.
The golf ball method for rapid assessment of grassland structure
Authors: Schultz Nick , Keatley Marie , Antos Mark , Wong Nathan , Moxham Claire , Farmilo Brad , Morgan John W.
Published: April 2017

A key task for native grassland managers is to assess when biomass reduction is necessary to maintain plant and animal diversity. This requires managers to monitor grassland structure. Parks Victoria and La Trobe University developed a method for rapid assessment of grassland structure using golf balls. Baker‐Gabb et al. (Ecological Management & Restoration, 17, 2016, p235) provide an example of where the method has been used to manage grassland structure to favour an endangered bird, the Plains‐wanderer (Pedionomus torquatus). In this study, we provide further critical analysis of the method using three data sets collected across different parts of Victoria that relate golf ball scores to various habitat attributes. We demonstrate how the golf ball score provides a good surrogate for key aspects of grassland structure. We show that the method does not provide a reliable surrogate for above‐ground biomass or vegetation cover, although we discuss how biomass and cover are not particularly good indicators of grassland structure. We argue that elements of grassland structure may be better correlated with desired conservation outcomes (e.g. plant species diversity or the presence of a particular species) than biomass or cover alone. We discuss examples of how the golf ball method has been used, and how it can be improved. The method will be particularly useful where a link can be demonstrated between golf ball scores and desired conservation outcomes, such as in the case of the Plains‐wanderer.
The background puzzle: how identical mutations in the same gene lead to different disease symptoms
Authors: Kammenga Jan E.
Published: April 2017

Identical disease‐causing mutations can lead to different symptoms in different people. The reason for this has been a puzzling problem for geneticists. Differential penetrance and expressivity of mutations has been observed within individuals with different and similar genetic backgrounds. Attempts have been made to uncover the underlying mechanisms that determine differential phenotypic effects of identical mutations through studies of model organisms. From these studies evidence is accumulating that to understand disease mechanism or predict disease prevalence, an understanding of the influence of genetic background is as important as the putative disease‐causing mutations of relatively large effect. This review highlights current insights into phenotypic variation due to gene interactions, epigenetics and stochasticity in model organisms, and discusses their importance for understanding the mutational effect on disease symptoms.
Symbiodinium mitigate the combined effects of hypoxia and acidification on a noncalcifying cnidarian
Authors: Klein Shannon G. , Pitt Kylie A. , Nitschke Matthew R. , Goyen Samantha , Welsh David T. , Suggett David J. , Carroll Anthony R.
Published: April 2017

Anthropogenic nutrient inputs enhance microbial respiration within many coastal ecosystems, driving concurrent hypoxia and acidification. During photosynthesis, Symbiodinium spp., the microalgal endosymbionts of cnidarians and other marine phyla, produce O2 and assimilate CO2 and thus potentially mitigate the exposure of the host to these stresses. However, such a role for Symbiodinium remains untested for noncalcifying cnidarians. We therefore contrasted the fitness of symbiotic and aposymbiotic polyps of a model host jellyfish (Cassiopea sp.) under reduced O2 (~2.09 mg/L) and pH (~ 7.63) scenarios in a full‐factorial experiment. Host fitness was characterized as asexual reproduction and their ability to regulate internal pH and Symbiodinium performance characterized by maximum photochemical efficiency, chla content and cell density. Acidification alone resulted in 58% more asexual reproduction of symbiotic polyps than aposymbiotic polyps (and enhanced Symbiodinium cell density) suggesting Cassiopea sp. fitness was enhanced by CO2‐stimulated Symbiodinium photosynthetic activity. Indeed, greater CO2 drawdown (elevated pH) was observed within host tissues of symbiotic polyps under acidification regardless of O2 conditions. Hypoxia alone produced 22% fewer polyps than ambient conditions regardless of acidification and symbiont status, suggesting Symbiodinium photosynthetic activity did not mitigate its effects. Combined hypoxia and acidification, however, produced similar numbers of symbiotic polyps compared with aposymbiotic kept under ambient conditions, demonstrating that the presence of Symbiodinium was key for mitigating the combined effects of hypoxia and acidification on asexual reproduction. We hypothesize that this mitigation occurred because of reduced photorespiration under elevated CO2 conditions where increased net O2 production ameliorates oxygen debt. We show that Symbiodinium play an important role in facilitating enhanced fitness of Cassiopea sp. polyps, and perhaps also other noncalcifying cnidarian hosts, to the ubiquitous effects of ocean acidification. Importantly we highlight that symbiotic, noncalcifying cnidarians may be particularly advantaged in productive coastal waters that are subject to simultaneous hypoxia and acidification.
Biocompatibility and mineralized nodule formation of Neo MTA Plus and an experimental tricalcium silicate cement containing tantalum oxide
Authors: Tanomaru‐Filho M. , Andrade A. S. , Rodrigues E. M. , Viola K. S. , Faria G. , Camilleri J. , Guerreiro‐Tanomaru J. M.
Published: April 2017

Aim

To evaluate the biocompatibility and mineralized nodule formation of an experimental tricalcium silicate cement with tantalum oxide (TSC/Ta2O5) as radiopacifier, NeoMTAPlus (Avalon Biomed Inc., Bradenton,FL,USA) andMTA(Angelus, Londrina,PR, Brazil) on human osteoblast‐like cells (Saos‐2).

Methodology

Biocompatibility was evaluated by 3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐thiazoyl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and neutral red (NR) assays, after exposure of Saos‐2 to cement extracts at 1 : 1, 1 : 2, 1 : 4 and 1 : 8 dilutions for 24 h. Bioactivity was evaluated by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and calcium deposits were detected with alizarin red staining (ARS). Statistical analysis was performed with analysis of variance and Bonferroni or Tukey post‐test (α = 0.05).

Results

TheMTTassay revealed lower cytotoxicity forNEOandMTA(P < 0.05), and higher forTSC/Ta2O5at 1 : 1 and 1 : 2 dilutions when compared to serum‐free medium – control (P > 0.05). At 1 : 4 dilution, theTSC/Ta2O5cytotoxicity was similar to the control (P > 0.05). At 1 : 8 dilution, cell viability was significantly greater than the control (P < 0.05). Saos‐2 cell viability performed using theNRassay at all dilutions revealed no cytotoxic effect ofMTA,NEOandTSC/Ta2O5.ALPactivity at 1 and 3 days was similar to the control (P > 0.05).TSC/Ta2O5had significantly greaterALPactivity at 7 days when compared with the control (P < 0.05). All materials induced the production of mineralized nodules, andNEOproduced significantly more mineralized nodules thanMTAandTSC/Ta2O5(P < 0.05).

Conclusions

NeoMTAPlus andTSC/Ta2O5were biocompatible and inducedALPactivity in Saos‐2 cells. Both materials induced mineralized nodule formation by Saos‐2 with NeoMTAPlus producing significantly more.
Preparation and properties of an oxide fiber‐reinforced silica matrix composite
Authors: Gao Yingqian , Zhang Lifu , Chen Jian , Wang Xiangwei , Cheng Haifeng
Published: April 2017

Oxide (Nextel™ 440) fiber‐reinforced silica composites, with the density and porosity of 1.97 g/cm3 and 21.8%, were prepared through sol‐gel. Their average flexure strength, elastic modulus, shear strength, and fracture toughness at room temperature were 119.7 MPa, 25.6 GPa, 10.8 MPa, and 4.0 MPa·m1/2, respectively. The composites showed typical toughened fracture behavior, and distinct pullout fibers were observed at the fracture surface. Their mechanical properties were performant up to 1000°C, with the maximum flexural strength of 132.2 MPa at 900°C. Moreover, the composites showed good thermal stability, even after thermal aging and thermal shock at elevated temperatures.
Understanding the role of the gut ecosystem in diabetes mellitus
Authors: Aw Wanping , Fukuda Shinji
Published: April 2017

Diabetes mellitus is a type of metabolic disorder whereby patients are unable to regulate glycemia. It is currently a worldwide public health issue, and is a burden to society because of its disabling and common complications. Diabetes is multifactorial, and also induces the onset of other diseases. In the present report, we review the labyrinth encompassing the gut microbiota and gut microbiota‐derived metabolites in type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes pathogenesis. There have been exceptional improvements in deoxyribonucleic acid sequencing and mass spectrometry technologies throughout these past years, and these have allowed the comprehensive collection of information on our unique gut ecosystem. We would like to advocate incorporating metagenome and metabolome information for a comprehensive perspective of the complex interrelationships between the gut environment, host metabolism and diabetes pathogenesis. We hope that with this improved understanding we would be able to provide exciting novel therapeutic approaches to engineer an ideal gut ecosystem for optimal health.
Subcutaneous injection of hydrogen gas is a novel effective treatment for type 2 diabetes
Authors: Zhang Xiaolong , Liu Jiaming , Jin Keke , Xu Haifeng , Wang Chuang , Zhang Zhuang , Kong Mimi , Zhang Zhengzheng , Wang Qingyi , Wang Fangyan
Published: April 2017

Aims/Introduction

In previous studies, hydrogen gas (H2) administration has clearly shown effectiveness in inhibiting diabetes. Here, we evaluated whether subcutaneous injection of H2 shows enhanced efficacy against type 2 diabetes mellitus induced in mice by a high‐fat diet and low‐dose streptozotocin treatment.

Material and Methods

H2 was injected subcutaneously at a dose of 1 mL/mouse/week for 4 weeks. Type 2 diabetes mellitus‐associated parameters were then evaluated to determine the effectiveness of subcutaneous H2 administration.

Results

The bodyweight of H2‐treated mice did not change over the course of the experiment. Compared with the untreated control animals, glucose, insulin, low‐density lipoprotein and triglyceride levels in the serum were significantly lower in treated mice, whereas high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol in the serum was significantly higher. Glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity were both improved in H2‐treated mice. Diabetic nephropathy analysis showed significant reductions in urine volume, urinary total protein and β2‐microglobulin, kidney/bodyweight ratio, and kidney fibrosis associated with subcutaneous injection of H2.

Conclusions

Subcutaneous injection of H2 significantly improves type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetic nephropathy‐related outcomes in a mouse model, supporting further consideration of subcutaneous injection as a novel and effective route of clinical H2 administration.
Slow Processing Speed Predicts Falls in Older Adults With a Falls History: 1‐Year Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Davis Jennifer C. , Best John R. , Khan Karim M. , Dian Larry , Lord Stephen , Delbaere Kim , Hsu Chun Liang , Cheung Winnie , Chan Wency , Liu‐Ambrose Teresa
Published: April 2017

Background/Objectives

A previous fall is a strong predictor of future falls. Recent epidemiologic data suggest that deficits in processing speed predict future injurious falls. Our primary objective was to determine a parsimonious predictive model of future falls among older adults who experienced ≥1 fall in the past 12 months based on the following categories: counts of (1) total, (2) indoor, (3) outdoor or (4) non‐injurious falls; (5) one mild or severe injury fall (yes vs no); (6) an injurious instead of a non‐injurious fall; and (7) an outdoor instead of an indoor fall.

Design

12‐month prospective cohort study.

Setting

Vancouver Falls Prevention Clinic, Canada (www.fallsclinic.ca).

Participants

Two‐hundred and eighty‐eight community‐dwelling older adults aged ≥70 years with a history of ≥1 fall resulting in medical attention in the previous 12 months.

Measurements

We employed principal component analysis to reduce the baseline predictor variables to a smaller set of five factors (i.e., processing speed, working memory, emotional functioning, physical functioning and body composition/fall risk profile). Second, we used the extracted five factors as predictors in regression models predicting the incidence of falls over a 12‐month prospective observation period. We conducted regression analyses for the seven falls‐related categories (defined above).

Results

Among older adults with a falls history, processing speed was the most consistent predictor of future falls; poorer processing speed predicted a greater number of total, indoor, outdoor, and non‐injurious falls, and a greater likelihood of experiencing at least one mild or severe injurious fall (all P values < .01).

Conclusion

Poorer performance on the processing speed factor, a trainable factor, was independently associated with the most costly type of falls–injurious falls.
Outcomes in Older Adults with Multimorbidity Associated with Predominant Provider of Care Specialty
Authors: Bynum Julie P. W. , Chang Chiang‐Hua , Austin Andrea , Carmichael Don , Meara Ellen
Published: April 2017

Objectives

To determine whether receiving the predominance of ambulatory visits from a primary care provider compared to a specialty provider is associated with better outcomes in older adults with multi morbidity.

Design

Observational study using propensity score matching.

Setting

Medicare fee‐for‐service, 2011–12.

Participants

Beneficiaries aged 65 and older with multimorbidity.

Measurements

The independent variable was an indicator for having a specialty (versus primary care) as the predominant provider of care (PPC). Main outcomes were 1‐year mortality, hospitalization, standardized expenditures, and ambulatory visit patterns.

RESULTS: Two‐thirds of 3,934,942 beneficiaries with multimorbidity had a primary care provider as their PPC. Individuals with a specialty PPC had more hospitalizations (40.3 more per 1,000) and higher spending ($1,781 more per beneficiary) than those with a primary care PPC, but there was little difference in mortality (0.2% higher) or preventable hospitalizations. Spending differences were largest for professional fees ($769 higher per beneficiary), inpatient stays ($572 higher per beneficiary), and outpatient facilities ($510 higher per beneficiary) (all P < .001). In addition, people with a specialist PPC had lower continuity of care and saw more providers.

Conclusions

Older adults with multimorbidity with a specialist as their main ambulatory care provider had higher spending and lower continuity of care than those whose PPC was in primary care but similar clinical outcomes.
Prepaid Cards at Tax Time and Beyond: Findings and Lessons from the MyAccountCard Pilot
Authors: Ratcliffe Caroline , Congdon William J. , McKernan Signe‐Mary
Published: April 2017

The MyAccountCard provides tax filers with a low‐cost prepaid card account for the electronic delivery of their tax refunds. Under the pilot, 808,099 low‐income individuals were randomly assigned to one of eight treatment groups that differ along three dimensions: (1) no monthly fee vs. $4.95 monthly fee, (2) savings account vs. no savings account, and (3) convenience vs. safety messaging. We find that individuals are price sensitive, the savings account (as designed) was not valuable, and that messaging did not influence behavior. The $4.95 fee (vs. no fee) decreased MyAccountCard take‐up by 42% and the likelihood of depositing a tax refund into the card account by 50%. Individuals with the highest propensity to be unbanked were three times more likely to take up the card and nearly 2.5 times more likely to use it to receive a tax refund as those with the lowest propensity to be unbanked.
Psychological profiles in patients with symptomatic reticular forms of oral lichen planus: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Adamo Daniela , Cascone Marco , Celentano Antonio , Ruoppo Elvira , Leuci Stefania , Aria Massimo , Mignogna Michele D.
Published: April 2017

Objectives

To analyze intra, extra‐oral symptoms and psychological profiles in symptomatic patients with reticular (R) forms of oral lichen planus (OLP).

Materials and Methods

Thirty symptomatic R‐OLP (sR‐OLP) patients were compared with an equal number of non‐symptomatic R‐OLP (nsR‐OLP) patients, burning mouth syndrome (BMS) patients, and healthy subjects (HS). The Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), the Total Pain Rating Index (T‐PRI), and the Hamilton Rating Scales for Depression (HAM‐D) and Anxiety (HAM‐A) were administered. Descriptive statistics, the non‐parametric ANOVA procedure by Kruskal‐Wallis, the exact Fisher test, and the multiple comparison test by the Mann‐Whitney U test were performed.

Results

The median and IQR of the HAM‐D and HAM‐A were 16.0 (11.7‐24.0) and 17.5 (13.7‐27.2) for the BMS, 13.5 (12.0‐15.0) and 15.5 (10.7‐18.0) for the sR‐OLP patients, 2.0 (2.0‐3.2) and 2.0 (2.0‐4.0) for the nsR‐OLP patients, and 3.0 (2.0‐4.0) and 3.0 (2.0‐4.0) for the HS, respectively. The median and IQR of the NRS and T‐PRI were 9.0 (7.7‐10.0) and 11.0 (9.0‐12.2) for the BMS and 9.0 (7.7‐10.0) and 11.5 (7.0‐13.0) for the sR‐OLP patients, respectively. Comparison analysis between the BMS and sR‐OLP patients revealed a non‐significant difference between the medians of the psychological profile and pain in the two groups (P‐value>.05).

Conclusions

The oral complaints are correlated with anxious and depressive symptoms in sR‐OLP patients. Mood disorders could modulate the pain perception or that patients could develop two different associated oral diseases, OLP and BMS.
Trait and perceived environmental competitiveness in achievement situations
Authors: Elliot Andrew J. , Jury Mickaël , Murayama Kou
Published: April 2017

Objective

Trait and perceived environmental competitiveness are typically studied separately, but they undoubtedly have a joint influence on goal pursuit and behavior in achievement situations. The present research was designed to study them together. We tested the relation between trait and perceived environmental competitiveness, and we tested these variables as separate and sequential predictors of both performance‐based goals and performance attainment.

Method

In Studies 1a (N = 387 U.S. undergraduates) and 1b (N = 322 U.S. undergraduates), we assessed participants' trait and perceived environmental competitiveness, as well as third variable candidates. In Study 2 (N = 434 MTurk workers), we sought to replicate and extend Study 1 by adding reports of performance‐based goal pursuit. In Study 3 (N = 403 U.S. undergraduates), we sought to replicate and extend Study 2 by adding real‐world performance attainment. The studies focused on both the classroom and the workplace.

Results

Trait and perceived environmental competitiveness were shown to be positively related and to positively predict separate variance in performance‐approach and performance‐avoidance goal pursuit. Perceived environmental competitiveness and performance‐based goal pursuit were shown to be sequential mediators of the indirect relation between trait competitiveness and performance attainment.

Conclusions

These studies highlight the importance of attending to the interplay of the person and the (perceived) situation in analyses of competitive striving.