bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
ENTRY REGULATIONS, WELFARE, AND DETERMINANTS OF MARKET STRUCTURE
Authors: Maican Florin G. , Orth Matilda 
Published: February 2018

AbstractWelfare effects of entry regulations are theoretically ambiguous in differentiated product markets. We use a dynamic oligopoly model of entry and exit with store‐type differentiation and static price setting to evaluate how entry regulations affect long‐run profitability, market structure, and welfare. Based on unique data for all retail food stores in Sweden, we estimate demand, recover variable profits, and estimate entry costs and fixed costs by store type. Counterfactual policy experiments show that welfare increases when competition is enhanced by lower entry costs. Protecting small stores by imposing licensing fees on large stores is not welfare enhancing.
Immune modulatory effects of statins
Authors: Zeiser Robert 
Published: February 2018

SummaryDespite major advances in recent years, immunosuppressive regimens for multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and graft‐versus‐host disease still have major adverse effects and immunomodulation rather than immune paralysis would be desirable. Statins inhibit the rate‐limiting enzyme of the l‐mevalonate pathway, the 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methyl‐glutaryl‐coenzyme A reductase. It was shown that blocking the l‐mevalonate pathway reduces inflammation through effects on downstream metabolites of the pathway including farnesylpyrophosphates and geranylgeranylpyrophosphates, which are essential for the attachment of GTPases like RhoA, Rac and Ras to the cell membrane. Therefore, l‐mevalonate pathway downstream products play critical roles in the different steps of an immune response including immune cell activation, migration, cytokine production, immune metabolism and survival. This review discusses the relevance of the different metabolites for the immunomodulatory effect of statins and connects preclinical results with data from clinical studies that tested statins for the treatment of different inflammatory diseases.
Finite element analysis of fracture statistics of ceramics: Effects of grain size and pore size distributions
Authors: Ozaki Shingo , Aoki Yuya , Osada Toshio , Takeo Kyohei , Nakao Wataru 
Published: February 2018

AbstractA novel numerical simulation method based on finite element analysis (FEA), which can evaluate the fracture probability caused by the characteristics of flaw distribution, is considered an effective tool to facilitate and increase the use of ceramics in components and members. In this study, we propose an FEA methodology to predict the scatter of ceramic strength. Specifically, the data on the microstructure distribution (i.e., relative density, size and aspect ratio of pore, and grain size) are taken as the input values and reflected onto the parameters of a continuum damage model via a fracture mechanical model based on the circumferential circular crack emanating from an oval spherical pore. In addition, we numerically create a Weibull distribution based on multiple FEA results of a three‐point bending test. Its validity is confirmed by a quantitative comparison with the actual test results. The results suggest that the proposed FEA methodology can be applied to the analysis of the fracture probability of ceramics.
The development of situational interest during a digital mathematics game
Authors: Rodríguez‐Aflecht G. , Jaakkola T. , Pongsakdi N. , Hannula‐Sormunen M. , Brezovszky B. , Lehtinen E. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractThe present study focused on 212 fifth graders' situational interest trajectories during an intervention with a digital mathematics game called Number Navigation. Our aims were to explore the development of situational interest whilst playing the game and to investigate the relationship between situational interest and individual math interest. Growth mixture model analyses showed that in the whole sample situational interest was stable within sessions but decreased across sessions. Three different situational interest trajectories were found. Situational interest trajectories were predicted by pre‐test individual interest. In turn, situational interest had an effect on post‐test individual interest. Students whose situational interest trajectories were stable (either high or low) presented no changes in individual interest, yet the individual interest of students whose situational interest was triggered but not maintained markedly decreased from pre‐test to post‐test. Results suggest that it is important to use game‐based learning not because games are believed to be “motivating”; rather, games with proven learning outcomes should be carefully selected.
Fibromodulin reduces scar size and increases scar tensile strength in normal and excessive‐mechanical‐loading porcine cutaneous wounds
Authors: Jiang Wenlu , Ting Kang , Lee Soonchul , Zara Janette N. , Song Richard , Li Chenshuang , Chen Eric , Zhang Xinli , Zhao Zhihe , Soo Chia , Zheng Zhong 
Published: February 2018

AbstractHypertrophic scarring is a major postoperative complication which leads to severe disfigurement and dysfunction in patients and usually requires multiple surgical revisions due to its high recurrence rates. Excessive‐mechanical‐loading across wounds is an important initiator of hypertrophic scarring formation. In this study, we demonstrate that intradermal administration of a single extracellular matrix (ECM) molecule—fibromodulin (FMOD) protein—can significantly reduce scar size, increase tensile strength, and improve dermal collagen architecture organization in the normal and even excessive‐mechanical‐loading red Duroc pig wound models. Since pig skin is recognized by the Food and Drug Administration as the closest animal equivalent to human skin, and because red Duroc pigs show scarring that closely resembles human proliferative scarring and hypertrophic scarring, FMOD‐based technologies hold high translational potential and applicability to human patients suffering from scarring—especially hypertrophic scarring.
Crosstalk between long non‐coding RNAs and Wnt/β‐catenin signalling in cancer
Authors: Yang Gang , Shen Tianyi , Yi Xiaoming , Zhang Zhengyu , Tang Chaopeng , Wang Longxin , Zhou Yulin , Zhou Wenquan 
Published: February 2018

AbstractLong non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are non‐protein‐coding transcripts in the human genome which perform crucial functions in diverse biological processes. The abnormal expression of some lncRNAs has been found in tumorigenesis, development and therapy resistance of cancers. They may act as oncogenes or tumour suppressors and can be used as diagnostic or prognostic markers, prompting their therapeutic potentials in cancer treatments. Studies have indicated that many lncRNAs are involved in the regulation of several signal pathways, including Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway, which has been reported to play a significant role in regulating embryogenesis, cell proliferation and controlling tumour biology. Emerging evidences have suggested that lncRNAs can interact with several components of the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway to regulate the expression of Wnt target genes in cancer. Moreover, the expression of lncRNAs can also be influenced by the pathway. Nevertheless, Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway‐related lncRNAs and their interactions in cancer are not systematically analysed before. Considering these, this review emphasized the associations between lncRNAs and Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway in cancer initiation, progression and their therapeutic influence. We also provided an overview on characteristics of lncRNAs and Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway and discussed their functions in tumour biology. Finally, targeting lncRNAs or/and molecules associated with the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway may be a feasible therapeutic method in the future.
The Crisis of the European Union as a Complex Adaptive System
Authors: Lehmann Kai Enno 
Published: February 2018

AbstractThe present article argues that the current crisis of the European Union (EU) is much deeper and more profound than many EU officials and analysts care to admit. Taking the so‐called sovereign debt crisis and the refugee crisis as illustrative case studies it is argued that the crisis needs to be reframed as a Complex Adaptive System which is self‐organizing in a deeply incoherent manner and which current EU policies are not only not addressing but exacerbating. As an alternative, the article suggests using Adaptive Action as a framework to identify the conditions which sustain the current dysfunctionality of the European Union and makes concrete suggestions on how these conditions can be altered. Areas of further research are also identified.
Psoriasis and cardiovascular disease risk factors: the HUNT Study, Norway
Authors: Snekvik I. , Nilsen T.I.L. , Romundstad P.R. , Saunes M. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractBackgroundStudies have examined the associations between psoriasis and cardiovascular diseases and their risk factors, but the results are conflicting, especially in the general population.ObjectivesTo investigate the association of psoriasis, and in particular psoriasis severity, with objectively measured cardiovascular disease risk factors and cardiovascular morbidity in a large population‐based cross‐sectional study.MethodsWe linked data on 50 245 persons in the HUNT3 Study, Norway, with information from the National Prescription Database to obtain information on use of psoriasis medication. A total of 2894 persons reported to have psoriasis; 2643 were classified as mild; and 251 as moderate/severe psoriasis. We used linear and logistic regression to estimate adjusted associations with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) between psoriasis and cardiovascular disease risk factors and morbidity.ResultsWe observed a positive association between psoriasis and objective measures of body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, but no clear association with blood pressure and blood lipids. People with moderate/severe psoriasis had an odds ratio for being overweight of 1.94 (95% CI 1.42, 2.67), whereas the odds ratio for metabolic syndrome was 1.91 (95% CI 1.47, 2.49). Psoriasis was also positively associated with self‐reported diabetes, myocardial infarction and angina pectoris.ConclusionsIn this population‐based study, we found that psoriasis was positively associated with measures of adiposity, as well as with a clustering of cardiovascular disease risk factors. Overall, these associations were strongest for people with moderate/severe psoriasis.
The characteristics of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in patients with gallstone diseases
Authors: Kim Dae Bum , Paik Chang‐Nyol , Song Do Seon , Kim Yeon Ji , Lee Ji Min 
Published: February 2018

AbstractBackground and AimSmall intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) might be prevalent in gallstone disease, including cases involving cholecystectomy and gallstones. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of SIBO in patients with gallstone disease.MethodsThis prospective study evaluated 265 patients for gallstone disease (200, gallstones; 65, cholecystectomy) and 39 healthy controls. Laboratory data, abdominal ultrasonography, and glucose breath test (GBT) with bowel symptom questionnaire were performed.ResultsGlucose breath test positivity (+) in patients with gallstone disease (36.6%) was significantly higher than that in controls (20.5%). GBT+ in the gallstone group (40.5%) was significantly higher than that in the control or cholecystectomy group (24.6%). The number of patients with gallstone, tend to be higher in the GBT (H2)+, (CH4)+, and (mixed)+ groups (56 [28.0%], 11 [5.5%], and 14 [7.00%]), respectively. Gallbladder disease was independently associated with fatty liver, metabolic syndrome, and SIBO. Of 97 GBT+ patients, 70 (72.1%), 12 (12.4%), and 15 (15.5%) were in the GBT (H2)+, (CH4)+, and (mixed)+ groups, respectively. GBT (CH4)+ or GBT (mixed)+ were significantly associated with the gallstone group compared with the cholecystectomy group. The GBT (mixed)+ group had higher total symptom scores than the GBT− group for hard stool and urgency tendency, or the GBT (H2)+ group in hard stool and loose stool tendency. Gallstone was the only independent factor for SIBO in patients with gallstone diseases.ConclusionsSmall intestinal bacterial overgrowth is common among patients with gallstone. Especially, CH4 or mixed‐type SIBO seems to be prevalent and to worsen intestinal symptoms.
Comparison of the effectiveness of pulsed dye laser vs pulsed dye laser combined with ultrapulse fractional CO2 laser in the treatment of immature red hypertrophic scars
Authors: Ouyang Hua‐wei , Li Gao‐feng , Lei Ying , Gold Michael H , Tan Jun 
Published: February 2018

SummaryIntroductionThe objective was to investigate the clinical effect of an adjustable pulse width Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) vs an adjustable pulse width PDL combined with fractional CO2 laser in treating immature red hypertrophic scars.MethodsFifty‐six patients (56 sites)were randomly divided into a treatment group and control group. The control group was treated with the 595 nm PDL at a fluence of 7‐15J/cm2 and pulse widths of 1.5‐3 ms, 7 mm spot size. The treatment group was treated with a fractional CO2 laser (UltraPulse CO2: Deep FX, Energy: 30~50 mJ, Frequency: 300 Hz, Density 5%, Scan Shape, and Spot Size were decided by shape and area of scar) after utilizing the 595 nm adjustable pulse width PDL (Fluence: 7‐15J/cm2, Pulse widths: 1.5‐3 ms, Spot size: 7 mm). MEBT/MEBO, previously described as a post‐treatment wound ointment, was used after laser treatment. The scars of the treatment group and the control group were evaluated for changes in pigment, height, vascularity, and pliability using the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) after two laser treatments.ResultsThe total VSS score, as well as the score for melanin, height, vascularity, pliability in both groups, showed an obvious decrease following the treatments. There were statistically significant differences between before treatment and after treatment (P < .05); however, the total score of the VSS, and score of the melanin, height, vascularity, and pliability in the control group decreased more than that of treatment group, and there was a statistically significant difference (P < .05).ConclusionsThe 595 nm adjustable pulse width PDL combined with the fractional CO2 fractional laser appears to have a beneficial clinical effect on fresh red hypertrophic scars, with no severe adverse reactions seen.
Interpreting Factor Models
Authors: KOZAK SERHIY , NAGEL STEFAN , SANTOSH SHRIHARI 
Published: February 2018

ABSTRACTWe argue that tests of reduced‐form factor models and horse races between “characteristics” and “covariances” cannot discriminate between alternative models of investor beliefs. Since asset returns have substantial commonality, absence of near‐arbitrage opportunities implies that the stochastic discount factor can be represented as a function of a few dominant sources of return variation. As long as some arbitrageurs are present, this conclusion applies even in an economy in which all cross‐sectional variation in expected returns is caused by sentiment. Sentiment‐investor demand results in substantial mispricing only if arbitrageurs are exposed to factor risk when taking the other side of these trades.
Intraluminal pressure of uterine balloon tamponade in the management of severe post‐partum hemorrhage
Authors: Kong Choi Wah , To William W. K. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractAimIntrauterine balloon tamponade has been increasingly used for the management of post‐partum hemorrhage (PPH) in recent years. However, data on the precise mechanisms and pressure required for the balloon tamponade are scanty in the literature. This study aims to review the intraluminal pressure (ILP) generated by the Bakri intrauterine balloon that is necessary to produce a ‘positive tamponade test’ during severe PPH.MethodsThis was a prospective cohort study. The ILP of the Bakri balloon was measured using a manometer after a positive tamponade test was clinically achieved during severe PPH (blood loss >1 L). The patient's blood pressure was recorded, and ultrasound scan was performed to verify the position of the balloon and the presence of forward flow in the uterine arteries. The main outcome measure is the ILP of the Bakri balloon required to achieve a positive tamponade test.ResultsTwenty patients were included for final analysis. The net ILP measured ranged from 67 to 92 mmHg, and this pressure was lower than the concurrent systolic pressure in all cases. Color Doppler confirmed positive forward flow in the uterine vessels in all cases. There were no differences in the pressure measured with the balloon position, and there was no relationship between the volumes of saline infused and the net pressure.ConclusionA positive tamponade test in an intrauterine balloon is probably achieved by local compression pressure exerted on the vasculature of the placental bed rather than by generating an ILP exceeding systemic blood pressure or by occlusion of flow to the uterine arteries.
Body size and lean mass of brown bears across and within four diverse ecosystems
Authors: Hilderbrand G. V. , Gustine D. D. , Mangipane B. A. , Joly K. , Leacock W. , Mangipane L. S. , Erlenbach J. , Sorum M. S. , Cameron M. D. , Belant J. L. , Cambier T. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractVariation in body size across populations of brown bears (Ursus arctos) is largely a function of the availability and quality of nutritional resources while plasticity within populations reflects utilized niche width with implications for population resiliency. We assessed skull size, body length, and lean mass of adult female and male brown bears in four Alaskan study areas that differed in climate, primary food resources, population density, and harvest regime. Full body‐frame size, as evidenced by asymptotic skull size and body length, was achieved by 8–14 years of age across populations and sexes. Lean body mass of both sexes continued to increase throughout their life. Differences between populations existed for all morphological measures in both sexes, bears in ecosystems with abundant salmon were generally larger. Within all populations, broad variation was seen in body size measures of adults with females displaying roughly a 2‐fold difference in lean mass and males showing a 3‐ to 4‐fold difference. The high level of intraspecific variation seen across and within populations suggests the presence of multiple life‐history strategies and niche variation relative to resource partitioning, risk tolerance or aversion, and competition. Furthermore, this level of variation indicates broad potential to adapt to changes within a given ecosystem and across the species’ range.
Ghrelin secretion in humans – a role for the vagus nerve?
Authors: Veedfald S. , Plamboeck A. , Hartmann B. , Vilsbøll T. , Knop F. K. , Deacon C. F. , Svendsen L. B. , Holst J. J. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractBackgroundGhrelin, an orexigenic peptide, is secreted from endocrine cells in the gastric mucosa. Circulating levels rise in the preprandial phase, suggesting an anticipatory or cephalic phase of release, and decline in the postprandial phase, suggesting either the loss of a stimulatory factor or inhibition by factors released when nutrients enter the intestine. We hypothesized that vagal signals are not required for the (i) preprandial increase or (ii) postprandial suppression of ghrelin levels. Further, we wanted to investigate the hypothesis that (iii) glucagon‐like peptide‐1 might be implicated in the postprandial decline in ghrelin levels.MethodsWe measured ghrelin levels in plasma from sham‐feeding and meal studies carried out in vagotomized individuals and controls, and from a GLP‐1 infusion study carried out in fasting healthy young individuals.Key ResultsWe find that (i) ghrelin secretion is unchanged during indirect vagal stimulation as elicited by modified sham‐feeding in vagotomized individuals and matched controls, (ii) ghrelin secretion is similarly suppressed after meal ingestion in vagotomized individuals and controls, and (iii) infusion of GLP‐1 does not lower ghrelin levels.Conclusions & inferencesWe conclude that for postprandial suppression of circulating ghrelin levels, a circulating factor (but not GLP‐1) or short (duodeno‐gastric) reflexes seem to be implicated.
Cortical differences in diverticular disease and correlation with symptom reports
Authors: Pitiot A. , Smith J. K. , Humes D. J. , Garratt J. , Francis S. T. , Gowland P. A. , Spiller R. C. , Marciani L. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractBackgroundRecent studies have shown that the brain of patients with gastrointestinal disease differ both structurally and functionally from that of controls. Highly somatizing diverticular disease (HSDD) patients were also shown to differ from low somatizing (LSDD) patients functionally. This study aimed to investigate how they differed structurally.MethodsFour diseases subgroups were studied in a cross‐sectional design: 20 patients with asymptomatic diverticular disease (ADD), 18 LSDD, 16 HSDD, and 18 with irritable bowel syndrome. We divided DD patients into LSDD and HSDD using a cutoff of 6 on the Patient Health Questionnaire 12 Somatic Symptom (PHQ12‐SS) scale. All patients underwent a 1‐mm isotropic structural brain MRI scan and were assessed for somatization, hospital anxiety, depression, and pain catastrophizing. Whole brain volumetry, cortical thickness analysis and voxel‐based morphometry were carried out using Freesurfer and SPM.Key ResultsWe observed decreases in gray matter density in the left and right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC), and in the mid‐cingulate and motor cortex, and increases in the left (19, 20) and right (19, 38) Brodmann Areas. The average cortical thickness differed overall across groups (P = .002) and regionally: HSDD > ADD in the posterior cingulate cortex (P = .03), HSDD > LSDD in the dlPFC (P = .03) and in the ventrolateral PFC (P < .001). The thickness of the anterior cingulate cortex and of the mid‐prefrontal cortex were also found to correlate with Pain Catastrophizing (Spearman's ρ = 0.24, P = .043 uncorrected and Spearman's ρ = 0.25, P = .03 uncorrected).Conclusion & InferencesThis is the first study of structural gray matter abnormalities in diverticular disease patients. The data show brain differences in the pain network.