bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic factors after salvage radiotherapy alone in patients with biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy
Authors: Song Wan , Jeon Hwang Gyun , Sung Hyun Hwan , Jeong Byong Chang , Seo Seong Il , Jeon Seong Soo , Choi Han Yong , Lee Hyun Moo
Published: October 2015

Objectives

To evaluate the oncological outcome and to assess prognostic factors of salvage radiotherapy alone in patients with biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy.

Methods

We reviewed our single institution, prospectively maintained database of 2043 patients who underwent radical prostatectomy between September 1995 and December 2011. In this cohort, 149 patients who developed biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy and received salvage radiotherapy alone after pelvic magnetic resonance imaging were included. Three‐dimensional conformal radiotherapy or intensity‐modulated radiotherapy was delivered with a median dose of 70.0 Gy (66.0–78.0 Gy) or 67.2 Gy (64.8–70.0 Gy). Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression analyses were carried out.

Results

With a median follow up of 82 months (range 20–153 months), 55 patients (36.9%) failed salvage radiotherapy. The 5‐year salvage radiotherapy failure‐free probability was 53.6%. On multivariate analysis, pre‐salvage radiotherapy prostate‐specific‐ antigen ≥1.0 ng/mL (P = 0.003, hazard ratio 3.592, 95% confidence interval 1.522–8.579), pathological stage ≥T3a (P = 0.004, hazard ratio 2.261, 95% confidence interval 1.290–3.833), pathological Gleason score ≥7 (P = 0.018, hazard ratio 5.501, 95% confidence interval 1.577–21.221), prostate‐specific antigen doubling time <12 months (P = 0.014, hazard ratio 2.243, 95% confidence interval 1.177–4.275) and no visible lesion on pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (P = 0.016, hazard ratio 2.068, 95% confidence interval 1.268–3.501) were independent prognostic factors of salvage radiotherapy failure after radical prostatectomy.

Conclusions

Pre‐salvage radiotherapy prostate‐specific antigen ≥1.0 ng/mL, pathological stage ≥T3a, pathological Gleason score ≥7, prostate‐specific antigen doubling time <12 months and no visible lesion on pelvic magnetic resonance imaging are prognostic factors of salvage radiotherapy failure after radical prostatectomy. We should consider additional treatment in patients with these factors for favorable outcomes.
The multiple facets of FcRn in immunity
Authors: Stapleton Nigel M. , Einarsdóttir Helga K. , Stemerding Annette M. , Vidarsson Gestur
Published: October 2015

The neonatal Fc receptor, FcRn, is best known for its role in transporting IgG in various tissues, providing newborns with humoral immunity, and for prolonging the half‐life of IgG. Recent findings implicate the involvement of FcRn in a far wider range of biological and immunological processes, as FcRn has been found to bind and extend the half‐life of albumin; to be involved in IgG transport and antigen sampling at mucosal surfaces; and to be crucial for efficient IgG‐mediated phagocytosis. Herein, the function of FcRn will be reviewed, with emphasis on its recently documented significance for IgG polymorphisms affecting the half‐life and biodistribution of IgG3, on its role in phagocyte biology, and the subsequent role for the presentation of antigens to lymphocytes.
The many faces of FcγRI: implications for therapeutic antibody function
Authors: Swisher Jennifer F. A. , Feldman Gerald M.
Published: October 2015

Fcγ receptor I (FcγRI or CD64) is the sole human Fc receptor with high affinity for monovalent IgG. While it contains an immunoreceptor tyrosine‐based activation motif in its cytoplasmic domain, binding of FcγRI can result in a complex array of activating and inhibitory outcomes. For instance, binding of monomeric IgG provides a low‐intensity tonic signal through FcγRI that is necessary for full interferon γ receptor signaling in the same cell. Interaction of FcγRI with larger high‐avidity complexes can result in phagocytosis, the generation of reactive oxygen species, as well as the synthesis and release of inflammatory cytokines. However, numerous reports also document potent anti‐inflammatory effects brought about by FcγRI engagement with immune complexes such as the inhibition of IFNγ and TLR4 signaling, and secretion of interleukin‐10. This has led to conflicting hypotheses regarding the function of FcγRI, especially with regard to its role in the efficacy of several therapeutic monoclonal antibodies. While many of these issues are still unclear, continued characterization of the regulation and context dependence of FcγRI function, as well as the molecular mechanisms responsible for these various outcomes, will improve our understanding of FcγRI biology as well as the therapeutic strategies designed to harness or constrain its actions.
Structure and dynamics of IgE–receptor interactions: FcεRI and CD23/FcεRII
Authors: Sutton Brian J. , Davies Anna M.
Published: October 2015

Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is well known for its role in allergic disease, the manifestations of which are mediated through its two Fc receptors, FcεRI and CD23 (FcεRII). IgE and its interactions with these receptors are therefore potential targets for therapeutic intervention, and exciting progress has been made in this direction. Furthermore, recent structural studies of IgE‐Fc, the two receptors, and of their complexes, have revealed a remarkable degree of plasticity at the IgE–CD23 interface and an even more remarkable degree of dynamic flexibility within the IgE molecule. Indeed, there is allosteric communication between the two receptor‐binding sites, which we now know are located at some distance from each other in IgE‐Fc (at opposite ends of the Cε3 domain). The conformational changes associated with FcεRI and CD23 binding to IgE‐Fc ensure that their interactions are mutually incompatible, and it may be that this functional imperative has driven IgE to evolve such a dynamic structure. Appreciation of these new structural data has revised our view of IgE structure, shed light on the co‐evolution of antibodies and their receptors, and may open up new therapeutic opportunities.
FcγR requirements leading to successful immunotherapy
Authors: Dahal Lekh N. , Roghanian Ali , Beers Stephen A. , Cragg Mark S.
Published: October 2015

Monoclonal antibody (mAb) immunotherapy is currently experiencing an unprecedented amount of success, delivering blockbuster sales for the pharmaceutical industry. Having experienced several false dawns and overcoming technical issues which limited progress, we are now entering a golden period where mAbs are becoming a mainstay of treatment regimes for diseases ranging from cancer to autoimmunity. In this review, we discuss how these mAbs are most likely working and focus in particular on the key receptors that they interact with to precipitate their therapeutic effects. Although their targets may vary, their engagement with Fcγ receptors (FcγRs) on numerous immune effector cells is almost universal, and here we review their roles in delivering successful immunotherapy.
Structural analysis of Fc/FcγR complexes: a blueprint for antibody design
Authors: Caaveiro Jose M. M. , Kiyoshi Masato , Tsumoto Kouhei
Published: October 2015

The number of studies and the quality of the structural data of Fcγ receptors (FcγRs) has rapidly increased in the last few years. Upon critical examination of the literature, we have extracted general conclusions that could explain differences in affinity and selectivity of FcγRs for immunoglobulin G (IgG) based on structural considerations. FcγRs employ a little conserved asymmetric surface of domain D2 composed of two distinct subsites to recognize the well‐conserved lower hinge region of IgG1‐Fc. The extent of the contact interface with the antibody in subsite 1 of the receptor (but not in subsite 2), the geometrical complementarity between antibody and receptor, and the number of polar interactions contribute decisively toward strengthening the binding affinity of the antibody for the receptor. In addition, the uncertain role of the N‐linked glycan of IgG for the binding and effector responses elicited by FcγRs is discussed. The available data suggest that not only the non‐covalent interactions between IgG and FcγRs but also their dynamic features are essential for the immune response elicited through these receptors. We believe that the integration of structural, thermodynamic, and kinetic data will be critical for the design and validation of the next generation of therapeutic antibodies with enhanced effector capabilities.
Fc receptors in antibody‐dependent enhancement of viral infections
Authors: Taylor Adam , Foo Suan‐Sin , Bruzzone Roberto , Vu Dinh Luan , King Nicholas J. C. , Mahalingam Suresh
Published: October 2015

Sensitization of the humoral immune response to invading viruses and production of antiviral antibodies forms part of the host antiviral repertoire. Paradoxically, for a number of viral pathogens, under certain conditions, antibodies provide an attractive means of enhanced virus entry and replication in a number of cell types. Known as antibody‐dependent enhancement (ADE) of infection, the phenomenon occurs when virus‐antibody immunocomplexes interact with cells bearing complement or Fc receptors, promoting internalization of the virus and increasing infection. Frequently associated with exacerbation of viral disease, ADE of infection presents a major obstacle to the prevention of viral disease by vaccination and is thought to be partly responsible for the adverse effects of novel antiviral therapeutics such as intravenous immunoglobulins. There is a growing body of work examining the intracellular signaling pathways and epitopes responsible for mediating ADE, with a view to aiding rational design of antiviral strategies. With in vitro studies also confirming ADE as a feature of infection for a growing number of viruses, challenges remain in understanding the multilayered molecular mechanisms of ADE and its effect on viral pathogenesis.
Population genetic structure of the stony coral Acropora tenuis shows high but variable connectivity in East Africa
Authors: van der Ven Rosa M. , Triest Ludwig , De Ryck Dennis J. R. , Mwaura Jelvas M. , Mohammed Mohammed S. , Kochzius Marc
Published: October 2015

Aim

The aim of this study is to determine the genetic diversity, population structure and connectivity of the broadcast‐spawning coral Acropora tenuis (Cnidaria; Scleractinia; Acroporidae). Based on the long pelagic larval duration (PLD) of the species, long‐distance dispersal resulting in high connectivity among populations is hypothesized.

Location

East Africa (Kenya and Tanzania; 2.5°S ~ 10°S)

Methods

A total of 269 samples were collected from 11 sample sites in Kenya and Tanzania spanning a distance of 900 km. The coral fragments were genotyped using seven microsatellite markers. Analyses included population genetic estimations of diversity and population differentiation, principal coordinate analysis (PCoA), Bayesian clustering approaches and testing for isolation by distance (IBD).

Results

Moderate, but significant, genetic structure was found when comparing all sample sites, but IBD could not be detected. Based on Bayesian cluster analyses three groups of samples sites could be identified: (1) Kenya and northern Tanzania, (2) southern Tanzania and (3) sample sites located in the Zanzibar and Pemba channels.

Main conclusions

High connectivity can be explained by the long‐distance dispersal capacity of A. tenuis and by the influence of the northbound East African Coastal Current facilitating dispersal by effectively spreading larvae along the coast. Oceanographic characteristics rather than distance are factors that determine connectivity among populations of A. tenuis in Kenya and Tanzania. No clear genetic break was identified. However, variable connectivity between sample sites does occur, with limited connectivity of the sample sites Misali and Stonetown.
Should Firms Employ Personalized Pricing?
Authors: Matsumura Toshihiro , Matsushima Noriaki
Published: October 2015

This paper theoretically considers a duopoly model in which all firms do not always employ personalized pricing. Our model incorporates the fact that firms engage in marginal cost‐reducing activities after they decide whether to employ personalized pricing. When the ex ante cost difference between the firms is large, the less‐efficient firm does not employ personalized pricing even when the fixed cost to do so is zero. This is because employing personalized pricing induces the rival firm to engage more in reducing its costs, which is more likely to harm the less‐efficient firm.
Franchisee Associations as Sources of Bargaining Power? Some Evidence
Authors: Argyres Nicholas , Bercovitz Janet
Published: October 2015

The empirical literature in economics and strategy on contract structure, including on franchise contract structure, has been largely based on agency and transaction cost theories. The effects of bargaining power have been much less studied. This paper considers the role of independent franchisee associations in franchising relationships as a means to test for the presence of bargaining power effects. We find that the presence or absence of a franchisee association is significantly related to each of three key contractual and relationship characteristics: contract duration, noncompete stringency, and terminations/nonrenewals. This suggests that bargaining power should be accounted for in studies of contract structure and relationship outcomes.
Whose Plaza Is It, Anyway? Chávez's Bolivarianism and Contested Public Spaces in Caracas
Authors: Servigna Ana
Published: October 2015

Durante los catorce años (1999–2013) de gobierno del fallecido Presidente Hugo Chávez, los espacios públicos en Venezuela se convirtieron en lugares de significado moral. Este artículo analiza cómo los seguidores de Chávez perciben, interpretan y hablan de los espacios públicos y sus significados morales, en particular los lugares que honran a Simón Bolívar. Analizando la Plaza Bolívar de Caracas y sus imaginarios sociales sostengo que la noción de Bolivarianismo ha sido utilizada como referente para institucionalizar una geografía moral y construir nuevas formas de exclusión en los espacios públicos de Caracas. Los resultados muestran como los seguidores de Chávez han transformado la Plaza Bolívar—discursiva y espacialmente—en un santuario secular para articular las diferencias políticas y reforzar las divisiones sociales.
Quantification of structural changes in acute inflammation by fractal dimension, angular second moment and correlation
Authors: STANKOVIC MARIJA , PANTIC IGOR , DE LUKA SILVIO R. , PUSKAS NELA , ZALETEL IVAN , MILUTINOVIC‐SMILJANIC SANJA , PANTIC SENKA , TRBOVICH ALEXANDER M.
Published: October 2015

The aim of the study was to examine alteration and possible application of fractal dimension, angular second moment, and correlation for quantification of structural changes in acutely inflamed tissue.

Acute inflammation was induced by injection of turpentine oil into the right and left hind limb muscles of mice, whereas control animals received intramuscular saline injection. After 12 h, animals were anesthetised and treated muscles collected. The tissue was stained by hematoxylin and eosin, digital micrographs produced, enabling determination of fractal dimension of the cells, angular second moment and correlation of studied tissue.

Histopathological analysis showed presence of inflammatory infiltrate and tissue damage in inflammatory group, whereas tissue structure in control group was preserved, devoid of inflammatory infiltrate. Fractal dimension of the cells, angular second moment and correlation of treated tissue in inflammatory group decreased in comparison to the control group.

In this study, we were first to observe and report that fractal dimension of the cells, angular second moment, and correlation were reduced in acutely inflamed tissue, indicating loss of overall complexity of the cells in the tissue, the tissue uniformity and structure regularity. Fractal dimension, angular second moment and correlation could be useful methods for quantification of structural changes in acute inflammation.
Diabetes screening by telecentric digital holographic microscopy
Authors: DOBLAS A. , ROCHE E. , AMPUDIA‐BLASCO F. J. , MARTÍNEZ‐CORRAL M. , SAAVEDRA G. , GARCIA‐SUCERQUIA J.
Published: October 2015

Diabetes is currently the world's fastest growing chronic disease and it is caused by deficient production of insulin by the endocrine pancreas or by abnormal insulin action in peripheral tissues. This results in persistent hyperglycaemia that over time may produce chronic diabetic complications. Determination of glycated haemoglobin level is currently the gold standard method to evaluate and control sustained hyperglycaemia in diabetic people. This measurement is currently made by high‐performance liquid chromatography, which is a complex chemical process that requires the extraction of blood from the antecubital vein. To reduce the complexity of that measurement, we propose a fully‐optical technique that is based in the fact that there are changes in the optical properties of erythrocytes due to the presence of glucose‐derived adducts in the haemoglobin molecule. To evaluate these changes, we propose to perform quantitative phase maps of erythrocytes by using telecentric digital holographic microscopy. Our experiments show that telecentric digital holographic microscopy allows detecting, almost in real time and from a single drop of blood, significant differences between erythrocytes of diabetic patients and healthy patients. Besides, our phase measurements are well correlated with the values of glycated haemoglobin and the blood glucose values.
Benefits and risks of antihypertensive medications in the elderly
Authors: Butt D. A. , Harvey P. J.
Published: October 2015

Hypertension is highly prevalent in older age and accounts for a large proportion of cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality worldwide. Isolated systolic hypertension is more common in the elderly than younger adults and associated with poor outcomes such as cerebrovascular disease and acute coronary events. International guidelines are inconsistent in providing recommendations on optimal blood pressure targets in hypertensive elderly patients as a result of the limited evidence in this population. Evidence from clinical trials supports the use of antihypertensive drugs in hypertensive elderly patients due to benefits in reducing CV disease and mortality. However, elderly participants in these trials may not be typical of elderly patients seen in routine clinical practice, and the potential risks associated with use of antihypertensive drugs in the elderly are not as well studied as younger participants. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to provide a comprehensive summary of the benefits and risks of the use of antihypertensive drugs in elderly patients (aged ≥65 years), highlighting landmark clinical trials and observational studies. We will focus on specific outcomes relating to the benefits and risks of these medications in hypertensive elderly patients, such as CV disease, cognitive decline, dementia, orthostatic hypotension, falls, fractures, cancer and diabetes, in order to provide an update of the most relevant and current evidence to help inform clinical decision‐making.
The Clinical and Serological Effect of a Gluten‐Free Diet in Border Terriers with Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome
Authors: Lowrie M. , Garden O.A. , Hadjivassiliou M. , Harvey R.J. , Sanders D.S. , Powell R. , Garosi L.
Published: October 2015

Background

Canine epileptoid cramping syndrome (CECS) is a paroxysmal movement disorder of Border Terriers (BTs). These dogs might respond to a gluten‐free diet.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to examine the clinical and serological effect of a gluten‐free diet in BTs with CECS.

Animals

Six client‐owned BTs with clinically confirmed CECS.

Methods

Dogs were prospectively recruited that had at least a 6‐month history of CECS based on the observed phenomenology (using video) and had exhibited at least 2 separate episodes on different days. Dogs were tested for anti‐transglutaminase 2 (TG2 IgA) and anti‐gliadin (AGA IgG) antibodies in the serum at presentation, and 3, 6, and 9 months after the introduction of a gluten‐free diet. Duodenal biopsies were performed in 1 dog.

Results

Serum TG2 IgA titers were increased in 6/6 BTs (P = .006) and AGA IgG titers were increased in 5/6 BTs at presentation compared to those of controls (P = .018). After 9 months, there was clinical and serological improvement in all BTs with CECS strictly adhering to a gluten‐free diet (5/5). One dog had persistently increased antibody titers. This dog scavenged horse manure. On the strict introduction of a gluten‐free diet this dog also had an improved clinical and serological response. The diet‐associated improvement was reversible in 2 dogs on completion of the study, both of which suffered a relapse of CECS on the re‐introduction of gluten.

Conclusions

Canine epileptoid cramping syndrome in BTs is a gluten‐sensitive movement disorder triggered and perpetuated by gluten and thus responsive to a gluten‐free diet.
Pattern of repeatability in the movement behaviour of a long‐lived territorial species, the eagle owl
Authors: Campioni L. , Delgado M. M. , Penteriani V.
Published: October 2015

Observed movement patterns are the response of the interaction between environmental variables and the animal internal state. Therefore, even individuals of the same species experiencing similar environmental conditions can exhibit different behavioural responses, as these responses can be highly repeatable within individuals. Here, we investigated the nocturnal movement behaviour of a territorial species, by radiotracking 26 eagle owls Bubo bubo in order to analyze within and between individual variation with respect to movement parameters and route choice. Owls showed a considerable individual consistency in all movement parameters and made repeated use of similar routes while moving within fixed home ranges. Thus, movement parameters varied much less between repeated nightly trajectories than between different individuals. Furthermore, when we compared different individuals inhabiting the same territory in different years, within‐group repeatability was low or non‐significant suggesting that the spatial configuration of habitat does not always represents one of the main drivers in animal movement behaviour. Similarly, male individuals appeared to exhibit greater repeatability than females. The overall pattern of repeatability we found seems to identify such consistent movement behaviour not only as the expression of individual response to external/internal inputs but also as an additional trait to include in the broad definition of animal personality.
Breeding status affects the expression of androgen and progesterone receptor mRNA in the brain of male Damaraland mole‐rats
Authors: Voigt C. , Leitner S. , Bennett N. C.
Published: October 2015

The eusocial Damaraland mole‐rat Fukomys damarensis represents an extreme example of reproductive skew, in that reproduction is completely blocked in female subordinate group members. Similarly, male subordinates within the colony show no sexual behaviour. In contrast to females, however, non‐reproductive males have functional gonads and do not differ in circulating levels of pituitary hormones and testosterone from reproductive males. Nevertheless, they have reduced numbers of follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) receptors in their testes and they produce fewer spermatozoa with a large proportion of immature spermatozoa and precursors. To understand the mechanism of reproductive suppression operational in subordinate males, we studied the expression of androgen receptor (AR) and progesterone receptor (PGR) genes in forebrain regions involved in the control of reproductive behaviour in male breeders and non‐breeders from intact colonies. While it is well documented that testosterone activates male‐typical behaviour, the role of progesterone in this process is less clear as previous studies have produced contradictory results. We found the expression of AR and PGR genes in several forebrain regions of male Damaraland mole‐rats. The distribution of AR in males matches our previous findings in females. This is the first report showing the distribution of PGR in mole‐rats. We found PGR in all areas which were also sensitive to androgens and oestrogens. Analysis of the optical densities of the AR and PGR hybridization signal revealed that breeding males had increased expression of AR and PGR compared to non‐breeders in most brain regions examined, which include the medial preoptic area, the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus, the arcuate nucleus and the medial amygdala. These status‐related differences were more pronounced for PGR than for AR. This study shows that breeding position affects the neuroendocrine phenotype of male Damaraland mole‐rats. Furthermore, it suggests that androgens and progesterone might act synergistically in activating sexual behaviour in males.
Copeptin is an independent prognostic factor for transplant‐free survival in cirrhosis
Authors: Kerbert Annarein J. C. , Weil Delphine , Verspaget Hein W. , Moréno José‐Philippe , van Hoek Bart , Cervoni Jean‐Paul , Di Martino Vincent , Coenraad Minneke J. , Thevenot Thierry
Published: October 2015

Background & Aims

Copeptin is a stable cleavage product of the arginine vasopressin (AVP) precursor and is equimolarly secreted with AVP. Copeptin is currently considered a reliable prognostic marker in a wide variety of diseases other than cirrhosis. We aimed to investigate the association between severity of cirrhosis and copeptin concentrations and to confirm whether copeptin is of prognostic significance in cirrhosis.

Methods

One hundred and eighty‐four cirrhotic patients hospitalized in two tertiary referral centres were studied. Serum copeptin was measured in samples obtained at hospital admission. Differences in serum copeptin between Child‐Pugh classes were evaluated using the Kruskal–Wallis test. Cox proportional hazard regression and Kaplan–Meier analyses were performed to evaluate associations of copeptin and other possible prognostic factors with 6‐ and 12‐month mortality.

Results

Median serum copeptin (interquartile range) increased significantly through Child‐Pugh classes A [5.4 (3.1–10.7) pmol/L], B [9.6 (6.0–17.3) pmol/L] and C [13.8 (5.8–34.1) pmol/L, P < 0.01]. Patients with serum copeptin >12.3 pmol/L displayed significantly higher mortality rates at 6 and 12 months as compared to those with serum copeptin ≤12.3 pmol/L (Log‐rank test: P < 0.01). Serum copeptin >12.3 pmol/L was significantly associated with mortality, particularly at 6 months, independently of age, clinical parameters and Model for End stage Liver Disease (MELD), MELD‐sodium and Child‐Pugh score.

Conclusions

Serum copeptin concentration increases significantly along with the severity of cirrhosis as defined by the Child‐Pugh classification. A high serum copeptin concentration predicts survival, particularly at 6 months, independently of liver‐specific scoring systems in a heterogeneous population of hospitalized cirrhotic patients.
On Transferable Machines
Authors: Bidard Christian
Published: October 2015

To avoid the intricacies of pure joint production, it is usually assumed that machines cannot be transferred across industries. Salvadori, however, identified a case in which productive systems with transferable machines have the same properties as those with non‐transferable machines. We reinterpret Salvadori's condition and proceed to a comparative analysis of the two types of models, which explains why some properties still hold while others are lost.
Identification of invasive fungal diseases in immunocompromised patients by combining an Aspergillus specific PCR with a multifungal DNA‐microarray from primary clinical samples
Authors: Boch T. , Reinwald M. , Postina P. , Cornely O. A. , Vehreschild J. J. , Heußel C. P. , Heinz W. J. , Hoenigl M. , Eigl S. , Lehrnbecher T. , Hahn J. , Claus B. , Lauten M. , Egerer G. , Müller M. C. , Will S. , Merker N. , Hofmann W.‐K. , Buchheidt D. , Spiess B.
Published: October 2015

The increasing incidence of invasive fungal diseases (IFD), most of all invasive aspergillosis (IA) in immunocompromised patients emphasises the need to improve the diagnostic tools for detection of fungal pathogens. We investigated the diagnostic performance of a multifungal DNA‐microarray detecting 15 different fungi [Aspergillus, Candida, Fusarium, Mucor, Rhizopus, Scedosporium and Trichosporon species (spp.)] in addition to an Aspergillus specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Biopsies, bronchoalveolar lavage and peripheral blood samples of 133 immunocompromised patients (pts) were investigated by a multifungal DNA‐microarray as well as a nested Aspergillus specific PCR assay. Patients had proven (n = 18), probable (n = 29), possible (n = 48) and no IFD (n = 38) and were mostly under antifungal therapy at the time of sampling. The results were compared to culture, histopathology, imaging and serology, respectively. For the non‐Aspergillus IFD the microarray analysis yielded in all samples a sensitivity of 64% and a specificity of 80%. Best results for the detection of all IFD were achieved by combining DNA‐microarray and Aspergillus specific PCR in biopsy samples (sensitivity 79%; specificity 71%). The molecular assays in combination identify genomic DNA of fungal pathogens and may improve identification of causative pathogens of IFD and help overcoming the diagnostic uncertainty of culture and/or histopathology findings, even during antifungal therapy.
LOCAL GOVERNMENTS MANAGING AUSTERITY: APPROACHES, DETERMINANTS AND IMPACT
Authors: CEPIKU DENITA , MUSSARI RICCARDO , GIORDANO FILIPPO
Published: October 2015

The global financial and economic crisis that hit Western countries between 2007 and 2008 has generated an extensive literature. Several policy responses are now recognized, based on the way governments reallocate scarce public resources across budget categories; these approaches have a differential impact on the sustainability of cuts and on performance and trust. What determines the choice of one approach over another is a relevant, yet unexplored, research question. The article highlights the factors driving the adoption of specific crisis management approaches. A conceptual model and key propositions derived from the literature are applied to the case studies of six local governments. A comparative analysis of the interactions among internal and external determinants through a multi‐year timeframe provides valuable insights that improve our understanding of crisis management.
Frege's Puzzle for Perception
Authors: Millar Boyd
Published: October 2015

According to an influential variety of the representational view of perceptual experience—thesingular content view—the contents of perceptual experiences include singular propositions partly composed of the particular physical object(s) a given experience is about or of. The singular content view faces well‐known difficulties accommodating hallucinations; I maintain that there is also an analogue of Frege's puzzle that poses a significant problem for this view. In fact, I believe that this puzzle presents difficulties for the theory that are unique to perception in that strategies that have been developed to respond to Frege's puzzle in the case of belief cannot be employed successfully in the case of perception. Ultimately, I maintain that this perceptual analogue of Frege's puzzle provides a compelling reason to reject the singular content view of perceptual experience.
Does restoration of a habitat‐forming seaweed restore associated faunal diversity?
Authors: Marzinelli Ezequiel M. , Leong Martin R. , Campbell Alexandra H. , Steinberg Peter D. , Vergés Adriana
Published: October 2015

Declines of habitat‐forming organisms in terrestrial and marine systems can lead to changes in community‐wide biodiversity. The dominant habitat‐forming macroalga Phyllospora comosa (Fucales) went locally extinct along the metropolitan coastline of Sydney in the 1980s. However, the consequences of that disappearance to the associated faunal diversity in these habitats, and whether Phyllospora is ecologically redundant with respect to the biodiversity it supports, are not known. Efforts are underway to restore Phyllospora, and the capacity to enhance local biodiversity is an important component of the rationale for restoration. We compared epifaunal diversity (abundances and composition) between Phyllospora and two other co‐occurring habitat‐forming algae, the kelp Ecklonia radiata and the fucoid Sargassum vestitum, and determined whether Phyllospora transplanted to Sydney developed different epifaunal communities than undisturbed thalli and controls. Where the 3 species naturally co‐occurred, Phyllospora supported different abundances of taxa than Ecklonia and Sargassum, as well as different composition at finer scales, which suggests that this species is not completely redundant and that its disappearance may have affected local biodiversity. Similarly, assemblages on transplanted Phyllospora differed from those on Ecklonia and Sargassum at restored sites, but did not always resemble assemblages from extant natural Phyllospora populations, even 18 months after transplantation. These experiments indicate that restoration of key habitat‐forming seaweeds not only recovers the algal species but also reduces risks of losing habitat diversity for epifauna and their consumers. However, restoration of all the original biodiversity associated with these seaweeds can be a difficult, complex, and long‐term process.
Community‐Based Organizations and Institutional Work in the Remote Rural West
Authors: Abrams Jesse , Davis Emily Jane , Moseley Cassandra
Published: October 2015

The institutional landscape for public land management in the U.S. West underwent a seismic shift in the 1990s as the long‐dominant resource extraction paradigm was replaced by the ecosystem management paradigm. Here we analyze the efforts of community‐based organizations (CBOs), entities that emerged in some locations across the West to help their respective communities navigate the transition from resource extraction to environmental stewardship. Despite their formal status as civil society actors, in practice CBOs came to fill various institutional gaps by taking on roles traditionally assigned to both the state and the private sector. We use a case study approach to examine how the Hayfork, California–based Watershed Research and Training Center engages in institutional work within a setting that is at once both open and constrained, as the rural community within which it operates lacks strong state‐ or industry‐led development trajectories while remaining constrained by the legacies of past institutions.
Nations or Sectors in the Age of Globalization: China's Policy Toward Foreign Direct Investment in Telecommunications
Authors: Hsueh Roselyn
Published: October 2015

Scholars debate whether states or markets drive economic policy in the context of internationalization. Unpacking the market–state dichotomy, liberal pluralists and institutionalists alike conduct sectoral analysis to examine economic policies and outcomes. They debate the relative importance of sectors versus factors and the impact of sectoral coalitions, structural characteristics, and institutional trajectories. Building on previous scholarship, this article argues that state imperatives, such as national security and technological advancement, are an important guide to understanding dominant patterns of economic policy, defined as state goals, government–business relations, and state methods. Beyond that, the organization of institutions and structural sectoral attributes influence the ways in which actual policy outcomes vary across sectors and time. Case studies of the liberalization and subsequent reregulation of foreign direct investment across subsectors of telecommunications in China substantiate this argument. Evidence from other industries further validates this explanatory model.
Legal But Costly: An Analysis of the EU GM Regulation in the Light of the WTO Trade Dispute Between the EU and the USA
Authors: Punt Maarten J. , Wesseler Justus
Published: October 2015

In this study, we investigate the new European Union (EU) regulations in the light of the ruling by the World Trade Organization (WTO) panel on the trade in genetically modified crops. To this end, we describe: the basic differences in approaches between the EU and the complaining parties with regard to genetically modified crops, what the main arguments were of the complaining parties as well as the defence of the EU, what the final judgement of the panel was and finally, we describe the current EU regulations. We then analyse to what extent, the arguments and conclusions of the panel still hold regarding the new EU legislation. We find that parts of the current EU legislation, that is, the safety bans as they are currently in place, are in breach of the WTO commitments. Moreover, the new approval procedures have the potential to also break these rules, although whether or not they will, depends on how the European Commission acts. Whether or not the EU will be challenged at the WTO remains an open question, as the decision to fight before the WTO may be more costly than working out new bilateral trade agreements.
Total nucleated cell and leukocyte differential counts in canine pleural and peritoneal fluid and equine synovial fluid samples: comparison of automated and manual methods
Authors: Brudvig Jean M. , Swenson Cheryl L.
Published: October 2015

Background

Rapid and precise measurement of total and differential nucleated cell counts is a crucial diagnostic component of cavitary and synovial fluid analyses.

Objectives

The objectives of this study included (1) evaluation of reliability and precision of canine and equine fluid total nucleated cell count (TNCC) determined by the benchtop Abaxis VetScan HM5, in comparison with the automated reference instruments ADVIA 120 and the scil Vet abc, respectively, and (2) comparison of automated with manual canine differential nucleated cell counts.

Methods

The TNCC and differential counts in canine pleural and peritoneal, and equine synovial fluids were determined on the Abaxis VetScan HM5 and compared with the ADVIA 120 and Vet abc analyzer, respectively. Statistical analyses included correlation, least squares fit linear regression, Passing–Bablok regression, and Bland–Altman difference plots. In addition, precision of the total cell count generated by the VetScan HM5 was determined.

Results

Agreement was excellent without significant constant or proportional bias for canine cavitary fluid TNCC. Automated and manual differential counts had R2 < .5 for individual cell types (least squares fit linear regression). Equine synovial fluid TNCC agreed but with some bias due to the VetScan HM5 overestimating TNCC compared to the Vet abc. Intra‐assay precision of the VetScan HM5 in 3 fluid samples was 2–31%.

Conclusions

The Abaxis VetScan HM5 provided rapid, reliable TNCC for canine and equine fluid samples. The differential nucleated cell count should be verified microscopically as counts from the VetScan HM5 and also from the ADVIA 120 were often incorrect in canine fluid samples.
Predicting Gas Leakage in the Rotary Engine—Part II: Side Seals and Summary
Authors: Picard Mathieu , Tian Tian , Nishino Takayuki
Published: October 2015

The Wankel rotary engine offers a greater power density than piston engines, but higher fuel consumption and hydrocarbon emissions, in large part due to poor gas sealing. This paper presents a model for the deformable dynamics of the side seal, which completes a set of modeling tools for the comprehensive assessment of the gas leakage mechanisms in the rotary engine. It is shown that the main leakage mechanisms for the side seals are: (1) opening of the inner flank due to the contact with the trailing corner seal, (2) flow through the gap with the leading corner seal, (3) simultaneous opening of both inner and outer flanks due to body force at high speed, and (4) running face leakage due to nonconformability at high speed. The leakage mechanisms are qualitatively validated at low speed with observed oil patterns on the rotor from laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) experiments. Finally, the predicted total leakage area for all the gas seals ranges from 1.5 mm2/chamber at low speeds to 2 mm2/chamber at high speeds, which is in agreement with the previous experimental studies, and the three gas seal types (side seals, apex seals, and corner seals) each accounts for about 1/3 of the total leakage, with minor variation as a function of speed.
Combustion Characteristics of Stratified Mixture in Lean-Burn Liquefied Petroleum Gas Direct-Injection Engine With Spray-Guided Combustion System
Authors: Park Cheolwoong , Oh Seungmook , Kim Taeyoung , Oh Heechang , Bae Choongsik
Published: October 2015

Today, we are faced with the problems of global warming and fossil fuel depletion, and they have led to the enforcement of new emissions regulations. Direct-injection spark-ignition engines are a very promising technology that can comply with the new regulations. These engines offer the advantages of better fuel economy and lower emissions than conventional port-injection engines. The use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as the fuel reduces carbon emissions because of its vaporization characteristics and the fact that it has lower carbon content than gasoline. An experimental study was carried out to investigate the combustion process and emission characteristics of a 2 l spray-guided LPG direct-injection engine under lean operating conditions. The engine was operated at a constant speed of 2000 rpm under 0.2 MPa brake mean effective pressure (BMEP), which corresponds to a common operation point of a passenger vehicle. Combustion stability, which is the most important component of engine performance, is closely related to the operation strategy and it significantly influences the degree of fuel consumption reduction. In order to achieve stable combustion with a stratified LPG mixture, an interinjection spark ignition (ISI) strategy, which is an alternative control strategy to two-stage injection, was employed. The effects of the compression ratio on fuel economy were also assessed; due to the characteristics of the stratified LPG mixture, the fuel consumption did not reduce when the compression ratio was increased.
Ongoing quality control in digital radiography: Report of AAPM Imaging Physics Committee Task Group 151
Authors: Jones A. Kyle , Heintz Philip , Geiser William , Goldman Lee , Jerjian Khachig , Martin Melissa , Peck Donald , Pfeiffer Douglas , Ranger Nicole , Yorkston John
Published: October 2015

Quality control (QC) in medical imaging is an ongoing process and not just a series of infrequent evaluations of medical imaging equipment. The QC process involves designing and implementing a QC program, collecting and analyzing data, investigating results that are outside the acceptance levels for the QC program, and taking corrective action to bring these results back to an acceptable level. The QC process involves key personnel in the imaging department, including the radiologist, radiologic technologist, and the qualified medical physicist (QMP). The QMP performs detailed equipment evaluations and helps with oversight of the QC program, the radiologic technologist is responsible for the day‐to‐day operation of the QC program. The continued need for ongoing QC in digital radiography has been highlighted in the scientific literature. The charge of this task group was to recommend consistency tests designed to be performed by a medical physicist or a radiologic technologist under the direction of a medical physicist to identify problems with an imaging system that need further evaluation by a medical physicist, including a fault tree to define actions that need to be taken when certain fault conditions are identified. The focus of this final report is the ongoing QC process, including rejected image analysis, exposure analysis, and artifact identification. These QC tasks are vital for the optimal operation of a department performing digital radiography.
Motivational Readiness of Community College Students Engaging in Physical Activity
Authors: Young Sarah J. , Lee Dohyun , Sturts Jill R.
Published: October 2015

This study investigated the Stages of Motivational Readiness for Change (SMRC) related to the physical activity of community college students. The transtheoretical model was the basis for examining frequency and intentions of physical activity, relationships between behaviors, and demographic variables such as age, gender, income, relationship status, dependents, GPA, and BMI. A conceptual model was also created to depict statistically significant predictability for the stage of readiness for change, BMI, intention to use facilities, and current physical activity frequency. Findings revealed that stages varied according to gender, relationship status, and having children. In addition, SMRC was found to be a key predictor of students' current physical activity habits. Understanding the SMRC is helpful for administrators to determine levels of physical activity as it can provide a greater understanding of student mindset and result in determining appropriate programs, marketing strategies, and facility improvements for students to become more physically active.
Examining the Relationship between Intramural Sports Participation and Sense of Community among College Students
Authors: Phipps Chelsea , Cooper Nelson , Shores Kindal , Williams Richard , Mize Nancy
Published: October 2015

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between intramural sports participation and sense of community among college students. Study participants ( n = 250) completed the Sense of Community Index-2 (SCI-2) (Chavis, Lee, & Acosta, 2008) measuring four factors that contribute to one's sense of community (SOC): membership, influence, integration and fulfillment of needs, and shared emotional connection (McMillan & Chavis, 1986). Regression analysis was used to test for significant predictors of sense of community, including length of intramural sports participation, frequency of intramural sports participation, campus classification, and service as a team captain. Results indicated that under class students experience greater levels of overall SOC and students who participated longer in intramural sports experienced higher levels of SOC. Suggestions based upon the results of the study are also presented, regarding intramural sports marketing, programming, and retention.
Adult BMI and Physical Activity: Retrospective Evaluation of High School Sport and Recreation Participation
Authors: Ball James W. , Bice Matthew R.
Published: October 2015

Research reports children and adolescents who are physically active (PA) are more likely to be active as adults. Physical Activity (PA) levels and BMI status were examined among adults who participated in sport and recreational activities while attending high school. The current study consists of 1363 adults who completed the questionnaire. Correlations were used to assess associations among variables and a regression analysis was used to describe the combined effect of BMI status on the outcome of interest (PA). The current study revealed participates who participated in sports or recreational activities while in high school reported to have more individuals in the normal (healthy) BMI category and met the American PA recommendations for the number of day and minutes engaged in moderate and vigorous physical activity. Data suggests participation in sport and recreational activities while in high school positively influences levels of adult PA and healthier BMIs.