bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Functionally Graded Carbide in the Ta–C System
Authors: Meeks Garrett J. , Dalton Jason S. , Sparks Taylor D. , Shetty Dinesh K.
Published: December 2015

Hard materials used in such abrasive wear applications as cutting tools and wear inserts in drilling tools require high hardness to resist wear, high fracture toughness to withstand mechanical and thermal shock, and high chemical and thermal stability. Such a combination of properties is difficult to achieve in single‐phase materials. Functional grading is an approach that overcomes this limitation by designing and processing a graded microstructure that provides high hardness and chemical resistance at the surface with a tough interior or bulk. While functional grading is a widely used practice in the cemented carbides industry, it has not been demonstrated with “pure” carbides. This article reports the feasibility of designing and processing a graded carbide in the Ta–C binary system. It is shown that a simple carburization treatment of the high‐toughness carbide, ζ‐Ta4C3−x, can lead to the formation of the hard carbide phase, γ‐TaCy, on the surface. The thickness, microstructure (grain size), and composition (C/Ta atomic ratio, y) of the γ‐TaCy layer can be optimized to obtain both high hardness and high strength for the graded material.
Highly Textured BaTiO3 via Templated Grain Growth and Resulting Polarization Reversal Dynamics
Authors: Meier William , Meyer Kelsey Elizabeth , Sava Gallis Dorina F. , Blea‐Kirby Mia Angelica , Roth Joshua , Felman Daniel , Breuer Tim , Dension Gary J. , Zutavern Fred J. , Huebner Wayne , Brennecka Geoff L.
Published: December 2015

Samples of bulk textured polycrystalline BaTiO3 ceramics were fabricated using a templated grain growth (TGG) approach in order to investigate effects of polycrystallinity and texture related to ferroelectric domain reversal under high‐power drive conditions. Barium titanate platelets were formed via two‐step topochemical conversion of bismuth titanate platelets grown via molten salt synthesis, then aligned via tape casting within a matrix of fine BaTiO3 powder. The coarse‐grained parts showed a high degree of crystallographic texture after sintering. Combined with ceramics of similar density and polycrystallinity, but random orientation and commercial single‐crystal specimens, this sample set enabled direct isolation of crystallographic texture and polycrystallinity as the primary variables for high‐power polarization reversal studies. These studies have also demonstrated a link between grain size and polarization reversal time that strongly suggests that grain boundaries serve effectively as nucleation sites during the ferroelectric switching process.
Dated phylogenies and historical biogeography of Dontostemon and Clausia (Brassicaceae) mirror the palaeogeographical history of the Eurasian steppe
Authors: Friesen Nikolai , German Dmitry A. , Hurka Herbert , Herden Tobias , Oyuntsetseg Batlai , Neuffer Barbara
Published: December 2015

Aim

We hypothesize that molecular signals in Eurasian steppe plants reflect their biogeographical history as well as the climate/landscape history of the Eurasian steppe. To test this hypothesis we focus here on the characteristic Eurasian steppe genera Dontostemon and Clausia (Brassicaceae), and have included all presently accepted species in our study.

Location

Eurasian steppe from eastern Asia to south‐eastern Europe.

Methods

To elucidate their phylogeny, we sequenced the nuclear ribosomal ITS and chloroplast trnL‐F regions. Sequence data were analysed with parsimony and Bayesian phylogenetic approaches. Divergence times were estimated using BEAST, relying on published ITS substitution rates. Distribution maps of all species of the two genera were compiled, and ancestral areas reconstructed using LAGRANGE.

Results

Both genera originated in central and eastern Asia, with Clausia later extending its range to eastern Europe. Dated phylogenies revealed: onset of diversification in the lower and middle Miocene; evolution of the majority of groups in the upper Miocene/lower Pliocene, and further speciation events during the Quaternary. Origin and diversification within these genera coincide with the evolution and history of the modern Eurasian steppe.

Main conclusions

Dated phylogenies and historical biogeography of Clausia and Dontostemon mirror the climate/landscape dynamics of the steppe from its origin in the early Miocene up to the Pleistocene and Holocene.
A matter of scale: apparent niche differentiation of diploid and tetraploid plants may depend on extent and grain of analysis
Authors: Kirchheimer Bernhard , Schinkel Christoph C. F. , Dellinger Agnes S. , Klatt Simone , Moser Dietmar , Winkler Manuela , Lenoir Jonathan , Caccianiga Marco , Guisan Antoine , Nieto‐Lugilde Diego , Svenning Jens‐Christian , Thuiller Wilfried , Vittoz Pascal , Willner Wolfgang , Zimmermann Niklaus E. , Hörandl Elvira , Dullinger Stefan
Published: December 2015

Aim

Emerging polyploids may depend on environmental niche shifts for successful establishment. Using the alpine plant Ranunculus kuepferi as a model system, we explore the niche shift hypothesis at different spatial resolutions and in contrasting parts of the species range.

Location

European Alps.

Methods

We sampled 12 individuals from each of 102 populations of R. kuepferi across the Alps, determined their ploidy levels, derived coarse‐grain (100 × 100 m) environmental descriptors for all sampling sites by downscaling WorldClim maps, and calculated fine‐scale environmental descriptors (2 × 2 m) from indicator values of the vegetation accompanying the sampled individuals. Both coarse and fine‐scale variables were further computed for 8239 vegetation plots from across the Alps. Subsequently, we compared niche optima and breadths of diploid and tetraploid cytotypes by combining principal components analysis and kernel smoothing procedures. Comparisons were done separately for coarse and fine‐grain data sets and for sympatric, allopatric and the total set of populations.

Results

All comparisons indicate that the niches of the two cytotypes differ in optima and/or breadths, but results vary in important details. The whole‐range analysis suggests differentiation along the temperature gradient to be most important. However, sympatric comparisons indicate that this climatic shift was not a direct response to competition with diploid ancestors. Moreover, fine‐grained analyses demonstrate niche contraction of tetraploids, especially in the sympatric range, that goes undetected with coarse‐grained data.

Main conclusions

Although the niche optima of the two cytotypes differ, separation along ecological gradients was probably less decisive for polyploid establishment than a shift towards facultative apomixis, a particularly effective strategy to avoid minority cytotype exclusion. In addition, our results suggest that coarse‐grained analyses overestimate niche breadths of widely distributed taxa. Niche comparison analyses should hence be conducted at environmental data resolutions appropriate for the organism and question under study.
Effect of diversity on biomass across grasslands on the Mongolian Plateau: contrasting effects between plants and soil nematodes
Authors: Chen Dima , Cheng Junhui , Chu Pengfei , Mi Jia , Hu Shuijin , Xie Yichun , Tuvshintogtokh Indree , Bai Yongfei
Published: December 2015

Aim

To assess how the diversity of above‐ and below‐ground organisms changes along environmental gradients at the regional scale and whether the effects of diversity changes on biomass are similar for above‐ and below‐ground organisms.

Location

Semi‐arid grasslands of the Mongolian Plateau.

Methods

We investigated diversity (α‐, β‐ and γ‐) and biomass of plant and soil nematodes as well as environmental factors (climate, soil environment, and soil resource) at 44 field sites (220 plots) along a 2000‐km east–west transect and a 900‐km south–north transect across grasslands on the Mongolian Plateau. Regression was used to examine the relationships between diversity components and biomass of plants and nematodes. Hierarchical structural equation modelling (SEM) was performed to analyse the effects of environmental factors on diversity components and their linkages to biomass.

Results

The biomass of plants and nematodes correlated positively with biodiversity measures for plants and nematodes except that nematode biomass decreased as nematode β‐diversity increased. The relationship between plant and soil nematodes was positive for biomass and for α‐ and γ‐diversity, but it was negative for β‐diversity. When considering the environmental factors, hierarchical SEM indicated that variation in plant or nematode γ‐diversity was associated with changes in climate, soil environment, and soil resources. Variation in plant or nematode α‐diversity was mainly associated with changes in γ‐diversity, while variation in the plant or nematode β‐diversity was mainly associated with changes in γ‐diversity and climate. The climate and soil resources explained most of the variation in plant biomass, whereas climate and α‐ and γ‐diversity explained most of the variation in nematode biomass. Surprisingly, plant biomass or diversity was only weakly related to soil nematodes when considering the environmental factors.

Main conclusions

Diversity and biomass patterns of nematodes and perhaps of other below‐ground organisms are different from those of plants, and this difference is highly climate dependent. These findings suggest that a more complete understanding of diversity–biomass relationships will require further examination of more taxa across a broader range of environmental gradients.
Seasonal Variation in Blood Pressure in 162,135 Patients With Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Hermann Julia M. , Rosenbauer Joachim , Dost Axel , Steigleder‐Schweiger Claudia , Kiess Wieland , Schöfl Christof , Holl Reinhard W. ,   the DPV Initiative
Published: December 2015

Seasonal variation in blood pressure (BP) has been observed in different populations. However, only few studies have focused on BP seasonality in diabetic patients. This study examined the seasonal patterns in BP in 62,589 patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and in 99,546 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) from the German/Austrian Diabetes Follow‐up Registry. Adjusted mean BP values revealed seasonal cycles of 12 months, with higher BP in colder months. Using harmonic regression models, the estimated systolic BP difference throughout the year was 2.28/2.48 mm Hg in T1DM/T2DM (both P<.001). Interestingly, seasonal variation in diastolic BP was larger in T1DM than in T2DM (1.24/0.64 mm Hg, P<.001). A sex difference was observed in T1DM only, while age differences occurred in both types of diabetes. Correlations between BP and potentially related factors such as outdoor temperature indicated that reasons underlying BP seasonality are likely to be complex and vary by subgroup.
Accuracy of periapical radiography in assessing bone level in implants affected by peri‐implantitis: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: García‐García Marta , Mir‐Mari Javier , Benic Goran I. , Figueiredo Rui , Valmaseda‐Castellón Eduard
Published: December 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of periapical radiography in measuring peri‐implant bone levels.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐five subjects with 46 implants in need of surgical treatment for peri‐implantitis were included in this cross‐sectional study. Prior to surgery, periapical radiographs were taken, a prediction of type of defect was made and radiographic peri‐implant bone levels (RxBL) were determined at the mesial and distal aspects. Intra‐operatively, the peri‐implant bone level (SurgBL) was assessed mesially, distally, buccally and orally and the type of defect was recorded. A paired t‐test was applied to detect differences between inter‐proximal RxBL and SurgBL. ANOVA was used to compare SurgBL at different circumferential positions.

Results

The mean inter‐proximal RxBL was 4.0 ± 2.2 mm and the mean inter‐proximal SurgBL was 5.3 ± 2.3 mm. The difference between RxBL and SurgBL was statistically significant (p = 0.014). There were no significant differences in SurgBL at the mesial, distal, buccal and oral aspects (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The intra‐operatively measured peri‐implant bone levels were more apical than the radiographic bone levels. The intra‐operatively assessed peri‐implant bone levels (SurgBL) were similar at all the circumferential positions around the implant.
Comparison of the effect of bone marrow cells infusion through the portal vein and inferior vena cava combined with short‐term rapamycin on allogeneic islet grafts in diabetic rats
Authors: Gao Qingzhen , Wang Xiaoping , Zhang Ruibin , Wang Pu , Jing Yongsheng , Ren Wanjun , Zhu Bin
Published: December 2015

Aims/Introduction

The study aimed to compare the impact of allogeneic bone marrow cells (BMCs) infusion through the inferior vena cava (IVC) and portal vein (PV) combined with rapamycin on allogeneic islet grafts in diabetic rats.

Materials and Methods

Recipient diabetic Wistar rats were infused with islets from Sprague–Dawley rats through the PV. PKH26‐labeled BMCs of Sprague–Dawley rats were infused to recipients through the PV or IVC, followed by administration of rapamycin for 4 days. Blood glucose level was measured to evaluate the survival time of the islets. Lymphocytes separated from blood, BMCs, thymus, liver, spleen and lymph node were analyzed by flow cytometry. The peripheral blood smear, BMCs smear and frozen sections of tissues were observed by a fluorescence microscope.

Results

The survival time of the islets was significantly prolonged by the BMCs infusion combined with rapamycin. The rats receiving BMCs infusion through the PV induced a significantly longer survival time of the islets, and increased mixed chimeras of allogeneic BMCs in the thymus, liver, spleen and lymph node compared with the rats receiving BMCs infusion through the IVC. The amount of the mixed chimeras on day 14 was lower than that on day 7 after islet transplantation. Furthermore, PV transplantation had significantly more mixed chimera than IVC transplantation in all analyzed organs or tissues.

Conclusions

BMCs infusion combined with rapamycin prolongs the islets survival and induces mixed chimeras of BMCs. PV infusion of BMCs might be a more effective strategy than IVC infusion of BMCs.
Effects of ethanol extract of propolis on histopathological changes and anti‐oxidant defense of kidney in a rat model for type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Sameni Hamid Reza , Ramhormozi Parisa , Bandegi Ahmad Reza , Taherian Abbas Ali , Mirmohammadkhani Majid , Safari Manouchehr
Published: December 2015

Aims/Introduction

Oxidative stress has a key role in the pathogenesis of diabetes. Propolis and its constituents have a wide range of medicinal properties against oxidative stress. In the present study, we evaluated the anti‐oxidant effects of ethanolic extracts of propolis on kidneys in diabetes mellitus rats.

Materials and Methods

A total of 40 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into the following five groups: control, diabetes mellitus, diabetes mellitus with vehicle treatment, diabetes mellitus with propolis treatment (100 mg/kg) and diabetes mellitus with propolis treatment (200 mg/kg). Diabetes mellitus in rats was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg). Diabetic groups were treated with vehicle or ethanolic extracts of Iranian propolis for 6 weeks. Serum concentration of malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase were measured.

Results

The results showed that Iranian propolis significantly inhibited bodyweight loss in diabetes mellitus rats. The propolis extracts significantly reduced serum glucose levels and kidney weight in diabetes mellitus rats (P < 0.001). Furthermore, propolis extracts significantly reduced the malondialdehyde content, and increased the activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase (P < 0.001) along with the total anti‐oxidant activity in the kidney tissue of diabetes mellitus rats. In the kidneys of the diabetes mellitus and vehicle group, the glomerular basement membrane thickness and glomerular area were significantly increased. Treatment of diabetes mellitus rats with the propolis extract significantly reduced the glomerular basement membrane thickness and glomerular area.

Conclusions

The present study results showed that the Iranian propolis extract could enhance the anti‐oxidant levels and histopathological changes in the kidneys of rats. The final results showed that most of the favorable effects of propolis are mediated by a reduction of blood glucose levels in diabetic animals.
Fitness effects of new mutations in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii across two stress gradients
Authors: Kraemer S. A. , Morgan A. D. , Ness R. W. , Keightley P. D. , Colegrave N.
Published: December 2015

Most spontaneous mutations affecting fitness are likely to be deleterious, but the strength of selection acting on them might be impacted by environmental stress. Such stress‐dependent selection could expose hidden genetic variation, which in turn might increase the adaptive potential of stressed populations. On the other hand, this variation might represent a genetic load and thus lead to population extinction under stress. Previous studies to determine the link between stress and mutational effects on fitness, however, have produced inconsistent results. Here, we determined the net change in fitness in 29 genotypes of the green algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii that accumulated mutations in the near absence of selection for approximately 1000 generations across two stress gradients, increasing NaCl and decreasing phosphate. We found mutational effects to be magnified under extremely stressful conditions, but such effects were specific both to the type of stress and to the genetic background. The detection of stress‐dependent fitness effects of mutations depended on accurately scaling relative fitness measures by generation times, thus offering an explanation for the inconsistencies among previous studies.
Impact of pay for performance on behavior of primary care physicians and patient outcomes
Authors: Lin Yifei , Yin Senlin , Huang Jin , Du Liang
Published: December 2015

Background and Objectives

Pay‐for‐performance is a financial incentive which links physicians’ income to the quality of their services. Although pay‐for‐performance is suggested to be an effective payment method in many pilot countries (ie the UK) and enjoys a wide application in primary health care, researches on it are yet to reach an agreement. Thus, a systematic review was conducted on the evidence of impact of pay‐for‐performance on behavior of primary care physicians and patient outcomes aiming to provide a comprehensive and objective evaluation of pay‐for‐performance for decision‐makers.

Methods

Studies were identified by searching PubMed, EMbase, and The Cochrane Library. Electronic search was conducted in the fourth week of January 2013. As the included studies had significant clinical heterogeneity, a descriptive analysis was conducted. Quality Index was adopted for quality assessment of evidences.

Results

Database searches yielded 651 candidate articles, of which 44 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. An overall positive effect was found on the management of disease, which varied in accordance with the baseline medical quality and the practice size. Meanwhile, it could bring about new problems regarding the inequity, patients’ dissatisfaction and increasing medical cost.

Conclusions

Decision‐makers should consider the baseline conditions of medical quality and the practice size before new medical policies are enacted. Furthermore, most studies are retrospective and observational with high level of heterogeneity though, the descriptive analysis is still of significance.
Cost‐Effectiveness of a Chronic Care Model for Frail Older Adults in Primary Care: Economic Evaluation Alongside a Stepped‐Wedge Cluster‐Randomized Trial
Authors: van Leeuwen Karen M. , Bosmans Judith E. , Jansen Aaltje P. D. , Hoogendijk Emiel O. , Muntinga Maaike E. , van Hout Hein P. J. , Nijpels Giel , van der Horst Henriette E. , van Tulder Maurits W.
Published: December 2015

Objectives

To evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of the Geriatric Care Model (GCM), an integrated care model for frail older adults based on the Chronic Care Model, with that of usual care.

Design

Economic evaluation alongside a 24‐month stepped‐wedge cluster‐randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Primary care (35 practices) in two regions in the Netherlands.

Participants

Community‐dwelling older adults who were frail according to their primary care physicians and the Program on Research for Integrating Services for the Maintenance of Autonomy case‐finding tool questionnaire (N = 1,147).

Intervention

The GCM consisted of the following components: a regularly scheduled in‐home comprehensive geriatric assessment by a practice nurse followed by a customized care plan, management and training of practice nurses by a geriatric expert team, and coordination of care through community network meetings and multidisciplinary team consultations of individuals with complex care needs.

Measurements

Outcomes were measured every 6 months and included costs from a societal perspective, health‐related quality of life (Medical Outcomes Study 12‐item Short‐Form Survey (SF‐12) physical (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scales), functional limitations (Katz activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living), and quality‐adjusted life years based on the EQ‐5D.

Results

Multilevel regression models adjusted for time and baseline confounders showed no significant differences in costs ($356, 95% confidence interval = −$488–1,134) and outcomes between intervention and usual care phases. Cost‐effectiveness acceptability curves showed that, for the SF‐12 PCS and MCS, the probability of the intervention being cost‐effective was 0.76 if decision‐makers are willing to pay $30,000 per point improvement on the SF‐12 scales (range 0–100). For all other outcomes the probability of the intervention being cost‐effective was low.

Conclusion

Because the GCM was not cost‐effective compared to usual care after 24 months of follow‐up, widespread implementation in its current form is not recommended.
Graphite‐schist blocks in the Franciscan Mélange, San Simeon, California: Evidence of high‐P metamorphism
Authors: Ukar E. , Cloos M.
Published: December 2015

The seacliff exposure at San Simeon, California, contains graphite‐schist blocks in a shale‐matrix, an undocumented lithology within the Franciscan mélange. Thirty graphite‐schist blocks were studied to discover all the varieties in this classic locality of mélange. Based on their mineralogical assemblage and composition, and textural characteristics the graphite‐schists in San Simeon are subdivided into two main types (Type I and II) with two subdivisions each (A and B). Type IA and IIA blocks are the most abundant. Type IA graphite‐schists are siltstone/fine greywacke‐like, preserve sedimentary textures, and lack lawsonite. Type IB graphite‐schists are mineralogical and texturally similar to Type IA schists, but are finer grained siltstone and shale. Type IIA graphite‐schists are compositionally layered and contain quartz‐ and albite‐rich layers and dark graphite‐ and intergrown mica/chlorite‐rich layers. Nine out of the 15 Type IIA blocks contain lawsonite. Two Type IIA blocks also contain aragonite (+calcite) in veins. Type IIB graphite‐schists are mostly composed of quartz and minor graphite, intergrown chlorite and white mica, and white mica pseudomorphs after lawsonite. The phengite content of mica in Type IIA blocks is higher than that of mica in Type IA graphite‐schists, confirming they were metamorphosed under high‐P/low‐T conditions. Type IA blocks were recrystallized between 200 and 250 °C at <~3 kbar; whereas, Type IIA blocks were metamorphosed under higher pressure conditions, probably at 250–300 °C and 3–5 kbar. Most likely both types of graphite‐schists were derived from a similar layered siltstone/fine greywacke/shale protolith. Organic matter‐rich sediments deposited in the trench axis were subducted along with oceanic crust during Franciscan subduction. Type I graphite‐schists were subducted to depths <10 km, whereas Type II graphite‐schists were subducted to depths ~15 km where they were underplated under high‐P conditions. The graphitic metasedimentary rocks were juxtaposed with mafic lithologies from the subducted oceanic crust that were metamorphosed to blueschist facies and retrograded to greenstone as they returned to the surface in the subduction channel shear zone.
The Analgesic Effect of Oxytocin in Humans: A Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Cross‐Over Study Using Laser‐Evoked Potentials
Authors: Paloyelis Y. , Krahé C. , Maltezos S. , Williams S. C. , Howard M. A. , Fotopoulou A.
Published: December 2015

Oxytocin is a neuropeptide regulating social‐affiliative and reproductive behaviour in mammals. Despite robust preclinical evidence for the antinociceptive effects and mechanisms of action of exogenous oxytocin, human studies have produced mixed results regarding the analgesic role of oxytocin and are yet to show a specific modulation of neural processes involved in pain perception. In the present study, we investigated the analgesic effects of 40 IU of intranasal oxytocin in 13 healthy male volunteers using a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over design and brief radiant heat pulses generated by an infrared laser that selectively activate Aδ‐ and C‐fibre nerve endings in the epidermis, at the same time as recording the ensuing laser‐evoked potentials (LEPs). We predicted that oxytocin would reduce subjective pain ratings and attenuate the amplitude of the N1, N2 and P2 components. We observed that oxytocin attenuated perceived pain intensity and the local peak amplitude of the N1 and N2 (but not of P2) LEPs, and increased the latency of the N2 component. Importantly, for the first time, the present study reports an association between the analgesic effect of oxytocin (reduction in subjective pain ratings) and the oxytocin‐induced modulation of cortical activity after noxious stimulation (attenuation of the N2 LEP). These effects indicate that oxytocin modulates neural processes contributing to pain perception. The present study reports preliminary evidence that is consistent with electrophysiological studies in rodents showing that oxytocin specifically modulates Aδ/C‐fibre nociceptive afferent signalling at the spinal level and provides further specificity to evidence obtained in humans indicating that oxytocin may be modulating pain experience by modulating activity in the cortical areas involved in pain processing.
Communicating and Hand(ling) Technologies. Everyday Life in Educational Settings Where Pupils With Cochlear Implants Are Mainstreamed
Authors: Holmström Ingela , Bagga‐Gupta Sangeeta , Jonsson Rickard
Published: December 2015

Different technologies are commonly used in mainstream classrooms to teach pupils who wear surgically implanted cochlear hearing aids. We focus on these technologies, their application, how pupils react to them, and how they affect mainstream classrooms inSweden. Our findings indicate that language ideologies play out in specific ways in such technified environments. The hegemonic position wielded by adults with regard to the use of technology usage has specific implications for pupils with cochlear implants.

Swedish Sign Language Video Abstract:https://youtu.be/Qp_fc5GzoOM

International Sign‐System Video Abstract:https://youtu.be/im1QwiW8_jI
“What do you think about having beauty marks on your—Hashek!”: Innovative and Impolite Uses of anArabic Politeness Formula amongFrench Teenagers
Authors: Tetreault Chantal
Published: December 2015

This article addresses howFrench teenagers of NorthAfrican (primarilyAlgerian) descent transform theArabic speech actHashekthrough their nontraditional and innovative uses. InFrench language interactions that involved adversarial teasing or public criticism of a peer,ArabFrench teenagers used the politeness formulaHashekas a self‐corrective to simultaneously facilitate and mitigate such irreverent behavior. In addition, teenagers usedHashekas an other‐corrective in order to publicly mark peers as inappropriate or rude. Thus both usages of the term (self‐ and other‐corrective) aid teenagers in achieving impolite, nondeferential speech. In usingHashekto accomplish impolite speech,French‐speaking teenagers of NorthAfrican background transform this traditionalArabic linguistic practice to suit the face‐needs of their adolescent peer group inFrance, while remaining in conversation with NorthAfrican interactional rituals and cultural norms.
The relationship between national culture and safety culture: Implications for international safety culture assessments
Authors: Noort Mark C. , Reader Tom W. , Shorrock Steven , Kirwan Barry
Published: December 2015

In this article, we examine the relationship between safety culture and national culture, and the implications of this relationship for international safety culture assessments. Focussing on Hofstede's uncertainty avoidance (UA) index, a survey study of 13,616 Air Traffic Management employees in 21 European countries found a negative association between safety culture and national norm data for UA. This is theorized to reflect the influence of national tendencies for UA upon attitudes and practices for managing safety (e.g., anxiety on risk; reliance on protocols; concerns over reporting incidents; openness to different perspectives). The relationship between UA and safety culture is likely to have implications for international safety culture assessments. Specifically, benchmarking exercises will consistently indicate safety management within organizations in high UA countries to be poorer than low UA countries due to the influence of national culture upon safety practices, which may limit opportunities for identifying and sharing best practice. We propose the use of safety culture against international group norms (SIGN) scores to statistically adjust for the influence of UA upon safety culture data, and to support the identification of safety practices effective and particular to low or high UA cultures.

Practitioner points

National cultural tendencies for uncertainty avoidance (UA) are negatively associated with safety culture.

This indicates that employee safety‐related attitudes and practices may be influenced by national culture, and thus factors outside the direct control of organizational management.

International safety culture assessments should attempt to determine the influence of national culture upon safety culture in order that benchmarking exercises compare aspects of safety management and not national culture.

Safety culture against international group norms (SIGN) scores provide a potential way to do this, and can facilitate the identification of best practice within countries operating in a low or high UA cultural cluster.
Methodological Considerations and Challenges to Conducting Research on Interethnic Relationships: Using the Right Toolkit!
Authors: Craig‐Henderson Kellina , Lewis Richard
Published: December 2015

This article discusses the methodological issues and challenges associated with research examining interethnic relationships and marriage. A major focus of this article is on the identification and classification of interethnic marriages. A second aim of the article is to explore the specific challenges faced by researchers who study these types of relationships. The third and final focus of the article is on reliable and specific guidance for researchers engaged in interethnic relationships research. The article provides an overview of specific methodological matters in conducting research on interethnic relationships and marriage including research design, sampling constraints, self‐classification labels versus other labels, comfort in discussing or disclosing what may be perceived to be a sensitive issue, as well as the in‐group or out‐group status of the researcher. More generally, by presenting a discussion of both qualitative and quantitative methods for research in this area and the limitations of each, we provide a “tool kit” of helpful guidance to those engaged in this type of research.
Exploring Parental Approval and Disapproval for Black and White Interracial Couples
Authors: Bell Gina Castle , Hastings Sally O.
Published: December 2015

Black and White interracial couples encounter societal and familial assessments that create additional tensions and conflict for their romantic relationship. This study examines parental approval and disapproval messages and their impact on interracial couples. Interdependence Theory and Facework provide the theoretical frameworks guiding this qualitative, interpretive examination. Thirty‐eight individuals who represent 19 Black and White romantic pairs were each separately interviewed about their experiences as an interracial couple. Of particular interest is the communication of parental support or disapproval. Data were analyzed using Owen's (1984) thematic analysis procedures. Results reveal that interracial dyads both experience public disapproval and illustrate that not all couples experience parental disapproval. However, couples with dual parental approval were less bothered by negative outside experiences than were one‐sided approval couples. Data also reveal the importance of parental approval messages and highlight the destructive nature of disapproval messages with regards to the interracial couple's face needs.
Interracial Couples in Therapy: Common Themes and Issues
Authors: Leslie Leigh A. , Young Jennifer L.
Published: December 2015

This article approaches the topic of intimate interracial relations from a clinical perspective. Throughout this article, we use the term “interracial” relationships, which refers to partners’ different racial categories defined by their physical and biological characteristics. This term falls under the larger umbrella of “interethnic” relationships, which refers to differences in partners’ cultural heritage as well as biological characteristics. Different racialized histories and experiences set interracial couples apart from other dyads, and can influence the types of problems that they encounter in their relationships. Given the challenging history of intergroup relations between races, a distinction is drawn between problems which are common to all couples (i.e., negotiating gender roles, poor communication, disagreements over financial management, and intimacy issues) and problems that are unique to interracial couples (i.e., managing societal disapproval, managing the effects of racial privilege). The utility of interdependence theory in furthering understanding of the problems that may arise in interracial relationships is examined. We argue that this theoretical model does not sufficiently address external casual conditions which are a primary source of the unique problems faced by interracial couples.
Barriers to Interracial Marriage? Examining Policy Issues Concerning U.S. Citizens Married to Undocumented Latino/a Immigrants
Authors: Schueths April M.
Published: December 2015

Interracial marriage in the United States is no longer outlawed, yet for many mixed‐status couples (i.e., marriage between citizens and noncitizens), especially those including an undocumented Latino spouse, de facto discrimination is in effect. U.S. immigration policies have inadvertently made it difficult for citizens to love and marry the person of their choosing, all while remaining largely unknown to the public. Using existing literature, this article examines how immigration laws are contrary to the doctrine of marital privacy for mixed‐status couples, with a special focus on U.S. citizens married to undocumented immigrants. My aim is to shine a light on how contradictory policies impact mixed‐status couples and to trace back the roots of this problem by analyzing historical U.S. immigration policy choices.
Concluding Thoughts: Interethnic Marriage through the Lens of Interdependence Theory
Authors: Clark Eddie M. , Harris Abigail L. , Hasan Michelle , Votaw Katheryn B. , Fernandez Priscilla
Published: December 2015

In this concluding article, we discuss the research and ideas on interethnic marriage put forth by our colleagues in this issue of the Journal of Social Issues by framing them using interdependence theory and the investment model. We discuss the work in terms of rewards, costs, investments, and alternatives. Next, we discuss several areas of future research needed to better understand interethnic marriage. Finally, we summarize issues related to social policy.
Combined liver–kidney transplantation for polycystic liver and kidney disease: analysis from the United Network for Organ Sharing dataset
Authors: Coquillard Cristin , Berger Jonathan , Daily Michael , Shah Malay , Mei Xiaonan , Marti Francesc , Gedaly Roberto
Published: December 2015

Background & Aims

The purpose of this study was to evaluate predictors of outcomes in combined liver–kidney transplants for polycystic liver and kidney disease.

Methods

We queried the United Network for Organ Sharing dataset for combined liver–kidney transplants performed from 1988 to 2013.

Results

Out of 107 patients who had combined liver–kidney transplants for polycystic liver and kidney disease, 84 were women (78.5%) with a mean age of 54.9 ±7.2 years. Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated that patients undergoing liver–kidney transplantation for polycystic liver and kidney disease had better survival than patients with polycystic liver disease undergoing liver transplant alone and those undergoing liver–kidney transplantation for other indications. This group had a 1‐, 3‐ and 5‐year survival of 91%, 90% and 90%, respectively. Multivariable analysis demonstrated that an indication of polycystic liver and kidney disease for combined liver–kidney transplant (hazard ratio, 0.29; 95% confidence interval, 0.129–0.526; P < 0.001) and Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score (hazard ratio, 1.271; 95% confidence interval, 1.093–1.477; P = 0.002) are independently associated with patient survival. In a propensity score analysis adjusting for age, gender, cold ischaemia time and total bilirubin and excluding hepatitis C, we found that patients transplanted with combined liver–kidney for other indications have similar survival compared with our study group.

Conclusions

Combined liver–kidney transplantation for polycystic liver and kidney disease can achieve good outcomes in selected patients. On Cox regression analysis, patients with polycystic liver and kidney disease undergoing liver–kidney transplantation had better survival compared with patients with combined liver–kidney for other indications. After excluding hepatitis C patients, those transplanted for polycystic liver and kidney disease vs other indications had similar survival after combined liver–kidney transplantation. Interestingly, patients in the combined polycystic liver and kidney disease group have significantly better outcomes than patients with polycystic liver disease undergoing liver transplant alone.
Linking foraging behavior and diet in a diving seabird
Authors: Harris Sabrina , Quintana Flavio , Ciancio Javier , Riccialdelli Luciana , Raya Rey Andrea
Published: December 2015

Foraging behavior and diet of breeding seabirds may be analysed simultaneously with the combined use of remote sensing devices and stable isotope analysis. Imperial shag, Phalacrocorax atriceps, breeding at Punta León colony, Argentina, were equipped with global positioning system (GPS) loggers to record foraging trips and blood samples were taken after removal of the devices in order to analyse their nitrogen and carbon stable isotope composition in whole blood and plasma. Whole blood was correlated to plasma isotopic composition for each individual (n = 35), linking diet in the short and medium term. Sexes did not differ in isotopic signatures. The maximum distance reached and the total number of dives that individuals made on two consecutive foraging trips were correlated to their plasma nitrogen isotopic signature. Individuals that went further from the colony and dived fewer times presented more positive signatures, indicative of benthic prey consumption (e.g. Raneya brasiliensis). Diet was predominantly benthic with some individuals incorporating pelagic prey (Engraulis anchoita) and even cephalopods (Octopus tehuelchus). Within breeding pairs (n = 9), different combinations of foraging and prey preferences were observed. Estimated trophic levels of these individuals were similar to those of the same species in other colonies further south along the Patagonian coast.
Gain of virulence by Soybean mosaic virus on Rsv4‐genotype soybeans is associated with a relative fitness loss in a susceptible host
Authors: Wang Y. , Hajimorad M. R.
Published: December 2015

‘Gene‐for‐gene’ theory predicts that gain of virulence by an avirulent pathogen on plants expressing resistance (R) genes is associated with fitness loss in susceptible hosts. However, the validity of this prediction has been studied in only a few plant viral pathosystems. In this study, the Soybean mosaic virus (SMV)–Rsv4 pathosystem was exploited to test this prediction. In Rsv4‐genotype soybeans, P3 of avirulent SMV strains provokes an as yet uncharacterized resistance mechanism that restricts the invading virus to the inoculated leaves. A single amino acid substitution in P3 functionally converts an avirulent to a virulent strain, suggesting that the genetic composition of P3 plays a crucial role in virulence on Rsv4‐genotype soybeans. In this study, we examined the impact of gain of virulence mutation(s) on the fitness of virulent variants derived from three avirulent SMV strains in a soybean genotype lacking the Rsv4 gene. Our data demonstrate that gain of virulence mutation(s) by all avirulent viruses on Rsv4‐genotype soybean is associated with a relative fitness loss in a susceptible host. The implications of this finding on the durable deployment of the Rsv4 gene in soybean are discussed.
Review: Sporadic Parkinson's disease: development and distribution of α‐synuclein pathology
Authors: Del Tredici K. , Braak H.
Published: December 2015

The development of α‐synuclein immunoreactive aggregates in selectively vulnerable neuronal types of the human central, peripheral, and enteric nervous systems is crucial for the pathogenesis of sporadic Parkinson's disease. The presence of these lesions persists into the end phase of the disease, a process that is not subject to remission. The initial induction of α‐synuclein misfolding and subsequent aggregation probably occurs in the olfactory bulb and/or the enteric nervous system. Each of these sites is exposed to potentially hostile environmental factors. Once formed, the aggregates appear to be capable of propagating trans‐synaptically from nerve cell to nerve cell in a virtually self‐promoting pathological process. A regional distribution pattern of aggregated α‐synuclein emerges that entails the involvement of only a few types of susceptible and axonally interconnected projection neurons within the human nervous system. One major route of disease progression may originate in the enteric nervous system and retrogradely reach the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagal nerve in the lower brainstem. From there, the disease process proceeds chiefly in a caudo‐rostral direction through visceromotor and somatomotor brainstem centres to the midbrain, forebrain, and cerebral cortex. Spinal cord centres may become involved by means of descending projections from involved lower brainstem nuclei as well as by sympathetic projections connecting the enteric nervous system with postganglionic peripheral ganglia and preganglionic nuclei of the spinal cord. The development of experimental cellular and animal models is helping to explain the mechanisms of how abnormal α‐synuclein can undergo aggregation and how transmission along axonal connectivities can occur, thereby encouraging the initiation of potential disease‐modifying therapeutic strategies for sporadic Parkinson's disease.
Vigor of peristalsis during multiple rapid swallows is inversely correlated with acid exposure time in patients with NERD
Authors: Martinucci I. , Savarino E. V. , Pandolfino J. E. , Russo S. , Bellini M. , Tolone S. , Tutuian R. , Roman S. , Furnari M. , Frazzoni M. , Macchia L. , Savarino V. , Marchi S. , de Bortoli N.
Published: December 2015

Background

Multiple rapid swallowing (MRS) during high‐resolution manometry (HRM) is increasingly utilized as provocative test to assess esophageal peristaltic reserve. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between MRS response and impedance and pH (MII‐pH) parameters in endoscopy negative heartburn (ENH) patients.

Methods

We enrolled consecutive ENH patients, who underwent HRM and MII‐pH study, with a selected MII‐pH profile: abnormal MII‐pH (pH+/MII+); normal MII‐pH (pH−/MII−). HRM was performed with 10 wet swallows (WS) and one MRS. Mean distal contractile integral (DCI) during WS and MRS were calculated. MII‐pH parameters including acid exposure time (AET), reflux events, baseline impedance levels (BI) and the efficacy of chemical clearance evaluated with the postreflux swallow‐induced peristaltic wave (PSPW) index were measured.

Key Results

We analyzed 103 patients: 49 MII+/pH+ (27 male), and 54 MII−/pH− (19 male). Mean age was similar between the two groups. As expected, mean AET and number of refluxes were higher in pH+/MII+ (p < 0.05). HRM was normal in all selected patients. Mean DCI‐WS was similar between two groups (p = n.s.). Mean DCI‐MRS‐ was higher in MII−/pH− vs MII+/pH+ (p < 0.05). The increase in DCI‐MRS was inversely correlated with AET (−0.699; p < 0.001) and directly correlated with BI values (0.631; p < 0.001) and PSPW index (0.626; p < 0.001).

Conclusions & Inferences

Following MRS, patients with abnormal impedance‐pH test showed suboptimal contraction response as compared with those with normal impedance‐pH test. Moreover, MRS response was inversely correlated with AET and directly correlated with BI values and PSPW index.
Survivin, cyclin D1, and p21hras in keratocystic odontogenic tumors before and after decompression
Authors: Brajić I , Škodrić S , Milenković S , Tepavčević Z , Soldatović I , Čolić S , Milašin J , Andrić M
Published: December 2015

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate survivin, cyclin D1, and p21hras expression in keratocystic odontogenic tumors before and after decompression, as well as in pericoronal follicles. A potential correlation between the expression levels of these proteins was also investigated.

Materials and methods

We analyzed eighteen keratocystic tumors treated by decompression and subsequent enucleation along with seven pericoronal follicles using immunohistochemistry.

Results

Keratocystic tumor samples, both before and after decompression, were positive for each of the investigated proteins. In pericoronal follicles, survivin exhibited cytoplasmic staining in contrast to nuclear staining in keratocystic tumors. Cyclin D1 expression was negative in pericoronal follicles, and p21hras expression was similar in both groups. Survivin showed significantly higher expression after decompression, while cyclin D1 and p21hras remained unchanged (P = 0.039, P = 0.255, P = 0.913, respectively). There was no correlation between these proteins neither before nor after decompression.

Conclusions

Within the limits of the study, we can conclude that following decompression, keratocystic odontogenic tumors preserve distinct immunohistochemical profiles of cyclin D1 and p21hras expression, despite substantial reduction in size of the lesions. Significant increase of survivin expression after decompression might be attributed to higher level of epithelial proliferation caused by this procedure.