bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Yield and Quality Characteristics of Quinoa Grown in Open Field Under Different Saline and Non‐Saline Irrigation Regimes
Authors: Pulvento C. , Riccardi M. , Lavini A. , Iafelice G. , Marconi E. , d’Andria R.
Published: April 2012

A possible alternative to minimize the effects of salt and drought stress is the introduction of species tolerating these conditions with a good adaptability in terms of quantitative and qualitative yield. So quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) cultivar Titicaca was grown in an open field trial in 2009 and 2010 to investigate the effects of salt and drought stress on quantitative and qualitative aspects of the yield. Treatments irrigated with well water (Q100, Q50 and Q25) and corresponding treatments irrigated with saline water (Q100S, Q50S and Q25S) with an electrical conductivity (ECw) of 22 dS m−1 were compared. Salt and drought stress in both years did not cause significant yield reduction, while the highest level of saline water resulted in higher mean seed weight and as a consequence the increase in fibre and total saponin content in quinoa seeds.
Effect of storage time, site and floral morph on seed germination of the threatened distylous primrosePrimula cusickianavar.maguirei
Authors: RAYBURN ANDREW P. , DAVIDSON JACOB B. , SCHUPP EUGENE W.
Published: April 2012

Ex situconservation of rare plant species requires an understanding of germination requirements. We report the first successful germination trials for Maguire primrose (Primula cusickianavar.maguirei[L.O. Williams] N.H. Holmgren & S. Kelso), a threatened perennial herb narrowly restricted to a 20‐km canyon in northern Utah, USA. Seeds collected from different sites (upper or lower canyon populations) and flower morphs (pin or thrum) that had been stored for either 1 or 2 years were cold, moist stratified in darkness at 1–2°C for 270 days. Independent of treatment, time to first germination was approximately 75 days, time to 50% germination (T50) was approximately 165 days, and total germination was 55.8%. Higher mean germination was observed in seeds stored for 2 years compared with seeds stored for 1 year, as well as in seeds from pin flowers compared with thrum flowers. There was not a significant effect of site on mean germination, but there was a significant storage time × site interaction. Seeds stored for 2 years also had a lower mean T50versus seeds stored for 1 year. In addition, seeds from upper canyon populations had a higher mean T50than those from lower canyon populations. Our results suggest that short‐term storage should not significantly decrease seed viability, and that both flower morph and canyon location may influence germination. Evidence suggests that germination patterns are adaptive. Our results contribute to our understanding of the germination biology ofP. cusickianavar.maguireiand inform future conservation efforts for this threatened species.
The efficacy of transcatheter arterial embolization as the first‐choice treatment after failure of endoscopic hemostasis and endoscopic treatment resistance factors
Authors: Katano Takahito , Mizoshita Tsutomu , Senoo Kyoji , Sobue Satoshi , Takada Hiroki , Sakamoto Tomoyuki , Mochiduki Hisato , Ozeki Takanori , Kato Akihisa , Matsunami Kayoko , Ito Kazuyuki , Joh Takashi
Published: April 2012

Aim:  The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the efficacy of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) as the first‐choice treatment in patients with bleeding peptic ulcer after the failure of endoscopic hemostasis. An additional objective was to clarify endoscopic treatment resistance factors.

Methods:  Between April 2004 and December 2010, 554 patients were admitted to Kasugai Municipal Hospital for necessary endoscopic hemostasis for bleeding gastric ulcer or duodenal ulcer. In the patients for whom endoscopic hemostasis failed, TAE was attempted. If TAE failed, the patients underwent surgery. The backgrounds of the patients in whom endoscopic treatment was successful and in whom it failed were compared.

Results:  TAE was attempted in 15 patients (2.7%). In 12 (80.0%) of 15 patients, embolization with coils was successful. In one patient (6.7%), embolization was ineffective. This patient underwent emergent salvage surgery. In two (13.3%) of 15 patients, no extravasation was observed during arteriography. These patients were cured with medication. In two patients, ulcer perforation was observed during endoscopy after rebleeding. These patients underwent surgery. In total, 3 (0.5%) of 554 patients underwent surgery. No recurrent bleeding was observed after TAE. Hemoglobin level <8 g/dL at presentation (P = 0.02), Rockall score ≥7 at presentation (P = 0.002), and Forrest class Ia/Ib at initial endoscopic hemostasis (P < 0.001) were found to be independent significant endoscopic treatment resistance factors.

Conclusions:  TAE is a safe and effective first‐choice treatment for patients in whom endoscopic hemostasis has failed.
Pleasant physical exercise program for prevention of cognitive decline in community‐dwelling elderly with subjective memory complaints
Authors: Kamegaya Tadahiko ,   Long‐Term‐Care Prevention Team of Maebashi City, Maki Yohko , Yamagami Tetsuya , Yamaguchi Tomoharu , Murai Tatsuhiko , Yamaguchi Haruyasu
Published: April 2012

Aim:  Japan is one of the most rapidly aging societies in the world. Measures to prevent dementia are urgently required in Japan, although such strategies have not yet been established. This study investigated the effectiveness of a pleasant physical exercise intervention on the prevention of cognitive decline in community‐dwelling elderly participants with subjective memory complaints. In this intervention, a pleasant atmosphere was emphasized to enhance the participants' motivation.

Method:  We administered a 12‐week intervention program consisting of pleasant physical exercise. This program for the prevention of cognitive decline was carried out as a service of Maebashi city. The service targeted elderly residents aged 65 years and older who had subjective memory complaints. After a control period of 12 weeks, 42 participants, aged between 65–86 years, received intervention once a week at community centers. Participants carried out group exercise, and were encouraged to perform home exercise and walking during the intervention period. The program was carried out by co‐medical professional staff, with the help of senior citizen volunteers.

Results:  A total of 30 participants were included in the analysis. There was significant improvement on the Wechsler digit symbol substitution test (P = 0.01).

Conclusion:  Participants with subjective memory complaints who continued the pleasant physical exercise programs for 12 weeks showed improvement in some aspects of cognitive function. Participation of senior citizen volunteers enabled smooth implementation of the program, and alleviated the burden on the professional staff. The pleasant physical exercise intervention described in the present study could be regarded as a community‐led intervention to prevent cognitive decline. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2012; ••: ••–••.
Accounting for dispersal and biotic interactions to disentangle the drivers of species distributions and their abundances
Authors: Boulangeat Isabelle , Gravel Dominique , Thuiller Wilfried
Published: April 2012

Ecology Letters (2012)

Although abiotic factors, together with dispersal and biotic interactions, are often suggested to explain the distribution of species and their abundances, species distribution models usually focus on abiotic factors only. We propose an integrative framework linking ecological theory, empirical data and statistical models to understand the distribution of species and their abundances together with the underlying community assembly dynamics. We illustrate our approach with 21 plant species in the French Alps. We show that a spatially nested modelling framework significantly improves the model’s performance and that the spatial variations of species presence–absence and abundances are predominantly explained by different factors. We also show that incorporating abiotic, dispersal and biotic factors into the same model bring new insights to our understanding of community assembly. This approach, at the crossroads between community ecology and biogeography, is a promising avenue for a better understanding of species co‐existence and biodiversity distribution.
Prospective evaluation of interobserver variability of the hydronephrosis index and the renal resistive index as sonographic examination methods for the evaluation of acute hydronephrosis
Authors: Rud Oleg , Moersler Johannes , Peter Julia , Waliszewski Przemyslaw , Gilfrich Christian , Häuser Hannes , Burger Maximilian , Fritsche Hans‐Martin , Wieland Wolf F. , Ahmed Ali M. , Brookman‐May Sabine , May Matthias
Published: April 2012

Study Type – Diagnosis (reliability)

Level of Evidence 2b

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Conventional sonography is the standard imaging technique used in patients with acute renal colic. A decreasing hydronephrosis index (HI) is associated with an increase in obstructive uropathy. Obstructive uropathy leads to an increase in the renal resistive index (RRI).

The present study shows that both the RRI and HI methods are easily practicable in patients presenting with stone‐related renal colic. The grade of hydronephrosis correlates positively with the HI but not with the RI.

OBJECTIVE

To confirm the reliability of assessements of the renal resistive index (RRI) and the hydronephrosis index (HI) comprising two sonographic techniques providing additional information in patients with acute renal colic.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sonographic measurement of hydronephrosis and assessment of common clinical criteria was performed in 22 consecutive patients presenting with unilateral stone‐related renal colic. RRI and HI were separately recorded by two investigators within a prospective study.

Interobserver agreement and comparison of sonographic with computed tomography (CT) findings were assessed with the Cohen's kappa statistic (κ) for attributive ordinal characteristics and Spearman's rank correlation/rho (ρ) for attributive metric characteristics.

RESULTS

There was a significant correlation between HI and the sonographically‐evaluated grade of hydronephrosis, although not between RRI and the grade of hydronephrosis.

For all procedures (RRI, HI, sonography and CT), significant differences between the symptomatic and the asymptomatic kidney were assessed.

Interobserver agreement was excellent for the grade assessment of hydronephrosis by conventional sonography (κ= 0.82; P < 0.001), good to very good for HI (ρ= 0.60; P= 0.003) and acceptable to good for RRI (ρ= 0.49; P= 0.021).

CONCLUSIONS

The RRI and HI methods are both easily practicable as stageless examination methods in patients presenting with stone‐related renal colic, and both also reliably distinguish between obstruction and non‐obstruction.

Exact thresholds for both methods must still be defined based on further successive studies.

Additionally, changes of values under medical expulsive therapy and correlation with the functional status of the obstructed kidney remain to be examined.
AN EVALUATION OF THE GREEK UNIVERSITIES’ ECONOMICS DEPARTMENTS
Authors: Katranidis Stelios , Panagiotidis Theodore , Zontanos Costas
Published: April 2012

This study provides a ranking of Economics Departments of Greek universities. Contrary to the existing literature, we look directly at the citations of the faculty members as a measure of academic performance and avoid the classification of journals. Additionally, the country of the PhD studies was found to be a significant variable that can explain the productivity of Greek economists. PhD holders from US and UK universities are characterized by higher productivity compared to those from other countries.
HUMAN CAPITAL FORMATION AND TAX EVASION
Authors: Goerke Laszlo
Published: April 2012

A strictly risk‐averse individual with an exogenous gross income in period one can acquire human capital in the same period and evade taxes. Period‐two income rises with educational investments in period one and can also be hidden from tax authorities. It is shown that a greater tax deductibility of educational investments and higher individual ability induce a positive correlation between tax evasion and educational investments in period two, whereas the relationship in period one is ambiguous. These theoretical predictions can explain diverse empirical findings on the correlation between education and tax evasion.
728. SALVIA OXYPHORA
Authors: Wood John R. I. , Ray Harley
Published: April 2012

The Bolivian endemic Salvia oxyphora Briq. is described and illustrated; the circumstances of its discovery, possible reasons for its reduced population in the wild and suggestions for its cultivation are given. The molecular status of Salvia and the probable break‐up of the genus as traditionally circumscribed are discussed.
How Does Childbirth Alter Intrahousehold Resource Allocation? Evidence from Japan*
Authors: Fujii Tomoki , Ishikawa Ryuichiro
Published: April 2012

Exploiting unique panel data that include direct measurements of resource allocation within households, we investigated the impact of childbirth on intrahousehold allocation for married Japanese couples. Based on a collective model of the household, we developed reduced‐form and structural‐form estimation equations that allow us to focus on private goods to track the changes in intrahousehold resource allocation. We found one additional child is associated with a reduction in the wife's private expenditure share by at least two percentage points. This may be because she substitutes more say in decisions on the children for her own private expenditure share.
Evaluation of the efficacy of orange roughy (Hoplostetbus atlanticus) oil in subjects with dry skin
Authors: Domoto N. , Koriyama T. , Chu B.‐S. , Tsuji T.
Published: April 2012

Synopsis

Moisturizers have beneficial effects in treating dry skin. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of orange roughy (Hoplostethus atlanticus) oil, a marine‐derived wax ester, on skin dryness in comparison with a reference commercially available petrolatum‐based moisturizer (Vaseline) and untreated control. Subjects (n = 24) with moderate to severe skin dryness at the lower limb of legs (Study 1) and with certain degree of skin dryness on the face and the forearms (n = 22, Study 2) were treated twice a day for 42 consecutive days with the test products in randomized clinical trials. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was measured at the beginning and the end of Study 1, whereas skin hydration was measured at the beginning, after 3 and 6 weeks of the application (the end of the study) in Study 2. Changes in the skin dryness were assessed by a dermatologist using a video microscopy. In Study 1, the dryness score of skin applied with orange roughy oil improved significantly (P < 0.01) in 6 weeks. The skin looked smooth with no or little dry scaly skin. Orange roughy oil was evaluated with a 60% efficacy in treating skin dryness by the expert, which comparable to that of petrolatum (68%). No significant change in TEWL was found either in orange roughy oil or petrolatum treatment, although the values showed a tendency to improve in both cases. Similarly, the results of the skin capacitance in Study 2 showed a significant improvement of the skin symptoms after 3 and 6 weeks. These results showed that the performance of orange roughy oil in treating skin dryness was comparable to that of petrolatum.
Modulation of gene expression during early stages of reconnection of the turtle spinal cord
Authors: García Gabriela , Libisch Gabriela , Trujillo‐Cenóz Omar , Robello Carlos , Russo Raúl E.
Published: April 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 121, 996–1006.

The spinal cord of the freshwater turtle Trachemys dorbignyi regenerates after complete transection (Rehermann et al. J. Comp. Neurol. 515, 2009, 197–214). This remarkable ability may be related to the persistence around the central canal (CC) of progenitors functionally clustered via connexin 43 (Cx43) that express brain lipid binding protein (BLBP) and the transcription factor Pax6 (Russo et al. J. Neurosci. 28, 2008, 8510–8516). Indeed, because BLBP+ cells appear in the bridge joining the rostral and caudal stumps, we speculated that progenitors contacting the central canal may play a key part in spinal cord regeneration. To test this hypothesis, we designed degenerated primers pairing conserved regions for key proteins synthesized in progenitors (BLBP, Cx43, and Pax6) and the neuronal protein HuB. Fragments of these proteins were amplified, cloned, and sequenced. Based on these sequences, we analyzed the changes in the expression levels using quantitative real‐time RT‐PCR with specific primers, comparing the injured spinal cord at different times after injury (4, 12, 20, and 60 days) with uninjured spinal cords. We found a transient, early increase of BLBP, Cx43 and HuB mRNA, with Pax6 remaining unchanged. These results suggest that the selected genes – active in progenitor cells – play an important part in early mechanisms of spinal cord regeneration.
The Fringes of Empires: Recent Scholarship on Colonial Frontiers and Borderlands in Latin America
Authors: Prado Fabricio
Published: April 2012

This article examines recent historical literature on colonial frontiers and borderlands in Latin America. The article explores definitions and subtleties related to the translation of the terms frontier and borderlands from Spanish/Portuguese into English. Moreover, special attention is paid the scholarship on African and Indigenous slavery in frontiers, the interaction between indigenous groups and colonists, the social importance of mestizos and go betweens, and the relationship between social groups and the environment. Most of the works reviewed present interdisciplinary approaches, including but not limited to ethnohistory, environmental studies, anthropology, sociology, cartography, humans geography, Atlantic World history.
Missionaries and Indigenous Education in the 19th‐Century British Empire. Part II: Race, Class, and Gender
Authors: Jensz Felicity
Published: April 2012

Missionaries were major providers of education to Indigenous peoples in the colonial world. They hoped both to convert their pupils to Christianity as well as to ensure that their converts had a Christian environment in which aspects of Western education were taught within the class room. The relationship between missionaries, Governments and Indigenous peoples was, however, often strained as has been demonstrated in Part I of this two‐part article, which examined various responses in different geopolitical and social settings to missionary education. Part II examines some of the scholarly debates and research directions surrounding how missionaries, as some of the first as well as the longest serving providers of education to Indigenous peoples, transmitted and instilled Western notions of race, class and gender to those peoples amongst whom they worked. Although the study of missions has received increased attention in the last few decades within areas such as anthropology, gender studies, post‐colonial studies and area studies, there are still many aspects of missionary schooling that remain understudied. This research overview therefore also provides some future directions for the study of missionaries and their education of Indigenous and non‐European peoples in the long 19th century.
Age and Sex Variation in Prevalence of Chronic Medical Conditions in Older Residents of U.S. Nursing Homes
Authors: Moore Kelly L. , Boscardin W. John , Steinman Michael A. , Schwartz Janice B.
Published: April 2012

Objectives

To investigate patterns in prevalences of chronic medical conditions over the age span of long‐term stay nursing home residents and between the sexes with data from the 2004 National Nursing Home Survey (NNHS).

Design

Retrospective, cross‐sectional study.

Setting

U.S. nursing homes.

Participants

Nationally representative sample comprising 11,788 long‐term stay residents (3,003 (25%) men, 8,785 (75%) women) aged 65 and older.

Measurements

Clinical Classifications Software was used to group International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, codes to identify the 20 most‐prevalent chronic medical conditions. SAS survey procedures were used to account for design effects of stratification and clustering to generate nationally representative estimates of prevalences of medical conditions.

Results

Average age was 84, with women older than men (85 vs 81, P = .02) and 67% of women aged 80 to 95. Women required more assistance with activities of daily living. The most frequent chronic medical conditions were hypertension (men 53%, women 56%), dementia (men 45%, women 52%), depression (men 31%, women 37%), arthritis (men 26%, women 35%), diabetes mellitus (men 26%, women 23%), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (men 23%, women 23%), atherosclerosis (men 24%, women 20%), congestive heart failure (CHF) (men 18%, women 21%), cerebrovascular disease (CVD) (men 24%, women 19%), and anemia (men 17%, women 20%). Sex differences in prevalences existed for all but constipation, GERD, and hypertension. Diabetes mellitus, CVD, and lipid disorders decreased with age in men and women. Atrial fibrillation, anemia, arthritis, CHF, dementia, and thyroid disease increased with age in men and women. Age‐related patterns differed between the sexes for diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and Parkinson's disease.

Conclusion

The profile of chronic medical conditions varies over the age span of nursing home residents and differs between men and women. This knowledge should guide educational and care efforts in long‐term care.
Systematic Review: Individuals' Goals for Surrogate Decision‐Making
Authors: Kelly Brenna , Rid Annette , Wendler David
Published: April 2012

Objectives

To determine to what extent current practice promotes the goals of individuals who did not designate a surrogate while competent with respect to decision‐making during periods of decisional incapacity.

Design

Systematic literature search for studies published in English and listed in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, CINAHL, or PsycINFO. Studies were eligible if they provided quantitative or qualitative empirical data on how adults want treatment decisions to be made for them during periods of incapacity.

Setting

Primarily United States, with six other countries.

Participants

Fourteen qualitative articles, representing 11 distinct data sets, and 26 quantitative articles, representing 25 distinct data sets, providing data on the views of 22,828 individuals, met the inclusion criteria. Most of the respondents were elderly or seriously ill.

Measurements

Quantitative surveys and qualitative interview studies assessing individuals' goals.

Results

The majority wanted close family members to act as their surrogate. The most common reason for preferring family members was the belief that they know which treatments the patient would want. Individuals also wanted to reduce the burden on their families. There was significant variation in the extent to which respondents wanted their surrogates to have leeway when making treatment decisions.

Conclusion

Individuals have three primary goals with respect to making treatment decisions for them during periods of incapacity: involve their family, treat them consistently with their own treatment preferences, and reduce the burden on their family. Unfortunately, prior systematic reviews have found that family members often are not able to determine which treatment patients want, and family members frequently experience substantial distress when acting as surrogates. These findings suggest that current practice frequently fails to promote individuals' primary goals for treatment decision‐making. Future research should evaluate ways to better promote individuals' goals. In the meantime, clinicians should be aware of these findings and should encourage patients to document their own goals, including their treatment preferences and their preferences regarding how they want decisions to be made for them during periods of decisional incapacity.
Local Anesthesia and Hydro‐Distension to Facilitate Cystic Calculus Removal in Horses
Authors: Russell Tom , Pollock Patrick J
Published: April 2012

Objective

To report a technique for improving surgical access to the bladder for removal of cystic calculi in male horses.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals or Sample Population

Geldings (8) with cystic calculi.

Methods

After catheterization of the bladder through the penis, 100 mL 2% lidocaine hydrochloride solution was instilled. After 10 minutes, the bladder was distended with sterile, warmed Hartmann's solution to a pressure of ∼40 cm H2O, using gravity feed. This was left in place until abdominal access was gained at surgery, then the fluid siphoned off via the catheter.

Results

Calculi were 3–11 cm in diameter (median, 6 cm). Bladder capacity ranged from 1.4 to 2.5 L (median, 1.8 L). Exteriorization time from placing a hand in the abdomen to having the bladder in a surgically accessible position was <5 minutes.

Conclusion

The described technique facilitates exteriorization of the bladder for removal of cystic calculi.
Walking the Talk: Continuous Improvement of a Quality Management Field Exercise
Authors: Coy Steven , Adams Jeffery
Published: April 2012

This article provides results from a three semester case study of the pedagogical efficacy of an innovative quality management field exercise. A series of direct and indirect measures were used to assess the extent to which the field exercise met a set of learning objectives. The results indicate that the assessment framework is useful in identifying areas of improvement for course delivery. Finally, the results have been used to devise modifications to the course.
A Model for Measuring Effectiveness of an Online Course
Authors: Mashaw Bijan
Published: April 2012

As a result of this research, a quantitative model and a procedure have been developed to create an online mentoring effectiveness index (EI). To develop the model, mentoring and teaching effectiveness are defined, and then the constructs and factors of effectiveness are identified. The model's construction is based on the theory that effectiveness is influenced by motivational factors and results from the total synergy used in the learning process. The validity of the model is checked through component analysis and structural equation modeling. It is shown that the model offers valid, reliable, and useful results for evaluating the relative effectiveness of an online course.
Student Effort in Preparing for Exams: Intertemporal Preferences and Loss Aversion
Authors: Wüst Kirsten , Beck Hanno
Published: April 2012

In the last two decades, much empirical research has been done in the field of behavioral economics to explain the psychological foundations for economic decisions. In particular, it has been shown that people exhibit time‐inconsistent behavior when making intertemporal decisions, i.e., they demand higher interest rates for a delay of their consumption in the near rather than in the distant future. People also show loss aversion. They demand more compensation for a loss than they are willing to sacrifice for a gain. We analyze these features for the nonmonetary decision of the amount of time invested in learning hours before an exam. Asked at two different points in time, the students were willing to learn more when the time of learning seemed far away than when the learning time had arrived. On the other hand, students were loss averse trying to prevent a deterioration of their grade to a larger extent than when they tried to work for an amelioration.
Double‐Robust Semiparametric Estimator for Differences in Restricted Mean Lifetimes in Observational Studies
Authors: Zhang Min , Schaubel Douglas E.
Published: April 2012

SummaryRestricted mean lifetime is often of direct interest in epidemiologic studies involving censored survival times. Differences in this quantity can be used as a basis for comparing several groups. For example, transplant surgeons, nephrologists, and of course patients are interested in comparing posttransplant lifetimes among various types of kidney transplants to assist in clinical decision making. As the factor of interest is not randomized, covariate adjustment is needed to account for imbalances in confounding factors. In this report, we use semiparametric theory to develop an estimator for differences in restricted mean lifetimes although accounting for confounding factors. The proposed method involves building working models for the time‐to‐event and coarsening mechanism (i.e., group assignment and censoring). We show that the proposed estimator possesses the double robust property; i.e., when either the time‐to‐event or coarsening process is modeled correctly, the estimator is consistent and asymptotically normal. Simulation studies are conducted to assess its finite‐sample performance and the method is applied to national kidney transplant data.
Addressing the National Academy of Sciences’ Challenge: A Method for Statistical Pattern Comparison of Striated Tool Marks
Authors: Petraco Nicholas D. K. , Shenkin Peter , Speir Jacqueline , Diaczuk Peter , Pizzola Peter A. , Gambino Carol , Petraco Nicholas
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  In February 2009, the National Academy of Sciences published a report entitled “Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward.” The report notes research studies must be performed to “…understand the reliability and repeatability…” of comparison methods commonly used in forensic science. Numerical classification methods have the ability to assign objective quantitative measures to these words. In this study, reproducible sets of ideal striation patterns were made with nine slotted screwdrivers, encoded into high‐dimensional feature vectors, and subjected to multiple statistical pattern recognition methods. The specific methods employed were chosen because of their long peer‐reviewed track records, widespread successful use for both industry and academic applications, rely on few assumptions on the data’s underlying distribution, can be accompanied by standard confidence levels, and are falsifiable. For PLS‐DA, correct classification rates of 97% or higher were achieved by retaining only eight dimensions (8D) of data. PCA‐SVM required even fewer dimensions, 4D, for the same level of performance. Finally, for the first time in forensic science, it is shown how to use conformal prediction theory to compute identifications of striation patterns at a given level of confidence.
The impacts of biofuels targets on land‐use change and food supply:  A global CGE assessment
Authors: Timilsina Govinda R. , Beghin John C. , van der Mensbrugghe Dominique , Mevel Simon
Published: April 2012

We analyze the long‐term impacts of large‐scale expansion of biofuels on land‐use change, food supply and prices, and the overall economy in various countries or regions using a multi‐country, multi‐sector global computable general equilibrium model augmented with an explicit land‐use module and detailed biofuel sectors. We find that an expansion of biofuel production to meet the existing or even higher targets in various countries would slightly reduce GDP at the global level but with mixed effects across countries or regions. Significant land re‐allocation would take place with notable decreases in forest and pasture lands in a few countries. The expansion of biofuels would cause a moderate decrease in world food supply and more significant decreases in developing countries like India and Sub‐Saharan Africa. Feedstock commodities (sugar, corn and oil seeds) would experience significant increases in their prices in 2020, but other price changes are small.
Three‐years clinical outcome of immediate provisionalization of single Osseospeed™ implants in extraction sockets and healed ridges
Authors: De Bruyn Hugo , Raes Filiep , Cooper Lyndon F. , Reside Glenn , Garriga Joan S. , Tarrida Luís G. , Wiltfang Jörg , Kern Matthias
Published: April 2012

Aim

The purpose of this prospective multicenter clinical study was to compare 3 years implant survival, bone and soft tissue changes following immediate loading using single Osseospeed™ implants (Astra Tech AB, Mölndal, Sweden) installed in healed ridges or extraction sockets.

Material and methods

Implants were provisionally restored the day of surgery using cemented acrylic crowns out of full occlusion. The provisional crowns were replaced after 12 weeks by full‐ceramic crowns. Implant survival, bone levels, soft tissue levels and peri‐implant health were monitored up to 3 years.

Results

55 patients (22 men, 33 women; mean age 45) had the implant installed in extraction sockets and 58 patients (25 men, 33 women; mean age 42) received conventional implant treatment in healed ridges. Three implants failed in the extraction group and one implant failed in the healed group, all failures occurred before the final crown placement. No further losses occurred during 3 years, giving a statistically comparable survival rate of 94.6% and 98.3%, respectively. The total bone loss after 3 years, compared to implant placement was 0.4 mm (SD 1.5) in healed sites, whilst the immediate sites showed a bone gain of 1.6 mm (SD 2.4) due to bone fill in the alveolus. Papillae retracted with 0.3 and 0.0 mm in the period of provisionalization, but grew back after final crown was placed with 0.3 and 0.5 mm in extraction and healed sites respectively after 3 years. Plaque and inflammation scores were very low throughout the study time, irrespective of treatment modality.

Conclusions

Immediate implants restored at the day of surgery show comparable risk for implant failure, bone loss and midfacial soft tissue recession compared to conventionally installed implants. The 3‐years results suggest both hard and soft tissue stability.
Health‐related quality of life in elderly, newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients treated with VMP vs. MP: results from the VISTA trial
Authors: Delforge Michel , Dhawan Ravinder , Robinson Don , Meunier Juliette , Regnault Antoine , Esseltine Dixie‐Lee , Cakana Andrew , van de Velde Helgi , Richardson Paul G. , San Miguel Jesús F.
Published: April 2012

Objectives

The phase 3 VISTA study (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00111319) in transplant‐ineligible myeloma patients demonstrated superior efficacy with bortezomib‐melphalan‐prednisone (VMP; nine 6‐wk cycles) vs. melphalan‐prednisone (MP) but also increased toxicity. Health‐related quality of life (HRQoL; exploratory endpoint) was evaluated using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ‐C30).

The phase 3 VISTA study (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00111319) in transplant‐ineligible myeloma patients demonstrated superior efficacy with bortezomib‐melphalan‐prednisone (VMP; nine 6‐wk cycles) vs. melphalan‐prednisone (MP) but also increased toxicity. Health‐related quality of life (HRQoL; exploratory endpoint) was evaluated using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ‐C30).

Methods

EORTC QLQ‐C30 was administered at screening, on day 1 of each cycle, at the end‐of‐treatment visit, and every 8 wk until progression. EORTC QLQ‐C30 scores were evaluated among patients with a valid baseline and at least one post‐baseline HRQoL assessment.

Results

At baseline, domain scores were similar between arms. By cycle 4, mean differences were clinically meaningful for most domains, indicating poorer health status with VMP. From cycle 5 onwards, improvements relative to baseline/MP were observed for all domains with VMP. Mean scores were generally improved by the end‐of‐treatment assessment vs. baseline in both arms. Among responding patients, mean scores generally improved from time of response to end‐of‐treatment assessment, substantially driven by patients achieving complete response (CR). Multivariate analysis showed a significant impact of duration of response/CR on improving global health status, pain, and appetite loss scores. Analyses by bortezomib dose intensity indicated better HRQoL in patients receiving lower dose intensity.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate clinically meaningful, transitory HRQoL decrements with VMP and relatively lower HRQoL vs. MP during early treatment cycles, associated with the expected additional toxicities. However, HRQoL is not compromised in the long term, recovering by the end‐of‐treatment visit to be comparable vs. MP.
The major facilitator superfamily (MFS) revisited
Authors: Reddy Vamsee S. , Shlykov Maksim A. , Castillo Rostislav , Sun Eric I. , Saier Milton H.
Published: April 2012

The major facilitator superfamily (MFS) is the largest known superfamily of secondary carriers found in the biosphere. It is ubiquitously distributed throughout virtually all currently recognized organismal phyla. This superfamily currently (2012) consists of 74 families, each of which is usually concerned with the transport of a certain type of substrate. Many of these families, defined phylogenetically, do not include even a single member that is functionally characterized. In this article, we probe the evolutionary origins of these transporters, providing evidence that they arose from a single 2‐transmembrane segment (TMS) hairpin structure that triplicated to give a 6‐TMS unit that duplicated to a 12‐TMS protein, the most frequent topological type of these permeases. We globally examine MFS protein topologies, focusing on exceptional proteins that deviate from the norm. Nine distantly related families appear to have members with 14 TMSs in which the extra two are usually centrally localized between the two 6‐TMS repeat units. They probably have arisen by intragenic duplication of an adjacent hairpin. This alternative topology probably arose multiple times during MFS evolution. Convincing evidence for MFS permeases with fewer than 12 TMSs was not forthcoming, leading to the suggestion that all 12 TMSs are required for optimal function. Some homologs appear to have 13, 14, 15 or 16 TMSs, and the probable locations of the extra TMSs were identified. A few MFS permeases are fused to other functional domains or are fully duplicated to give 24‐TMS proteins with dual functions. Finally, the MFS families with no known function were subjected to genomic context analyses leading to functional predictions.
Increasing the Dose of Vardenafil on a Daily Basis Does Not Improve Erectile Function After Unilateral Nerve-Sparing Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Bannowsky Andreas , van Ahlen Hermann , Loch Tillmann
Published: April 2012

Introduction

Several treatment regimens for rehabilitation of erectile function (EF) after nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy (nsRP) are currently discussed. The optimal and most cost-effective therapy is still not found yet.

Aim

To evaluate the effect of vardenafil, a PDE5 inhibitor, dose escalation on recovery of EF after unilateral nsRP.

Methods

Thirty-six sexually active patients received a unilateral nsRP. All patients completed an International Index of Erectile Function—5 items (IIEF-5) questionnaire concerning EF preoperatively. Group 1 (N = 12 patients) received vardenafil 5 mg/day vs. group 2 (N = 12) who received vardenafil 10 mg/day at night beginning the day of catheter removal. A control of 12 patients underwent follow-up without PDE5 inhibitors.

Main Outcome Measure

The IIEF-5 was the primary end point. IIEF-5 questionnaires were completed at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months after nsRP.

Results

In group 1 (5 mg/day vardenafil) the IIEF-5 score decreased from a preoperative 22.4 mean score to 4.2 at 3 months, 8.9 at 6 months, and 13.4 mean score at 12 months after nsRP vs. preoperative 22.8, 4.1 at 3 months, 7.9 at 6 months, and 12.8 mean score at 12 months in group 2 (10 mg/day vardenafil). In the control group the preoperative IIEF-5 mean score of 21.9 decreased to 3.8 at 3 months, 6.1 at 6 months, and 8.9 at 12 months. Statistical evaluation showed significant difference in IIEF-5 score and time to recovery of EF between groups 1 and 3 and between groups 2 and 3 (P < 0.01). No statistical differences were found between groups 1 and 2.

Conclusions

Daily low-dose vardenafil lead to significant improvement of recovery of EF. In this study doubling the dosage did not improve the recovery of EF further.
Cultivation, identification and quantification of one species of yeast‐like symbiotes, Candida, in the rice brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens
Authors: Pang Kun , Dong Sheng‐Zhang , Hou Yun , Bian Ya‐Lin , Yang Ke , Yu Xiao‐Ping
Published: April 2012

Abstract  The brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens Stål, which is one of the most destructive pests of rice, has been confirmed to harbor yeast‐like symbiotes (YLS) in the fat body. Several morphologically different YLS have been previously isolated and cultured in vitro from BPH, but direct evidence is lacking to further clarify whether the cultured YLS were from BPH. In this study, one species of YLS was successfully cultured in vitro and simultaneously verified to exist in the fat body of BPH by sequence analysis and nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The cultured YLS isolate in vitro was identified as a member of the genus Candida on the basis of 18S rDNA (ribosomal DNA) and 5.8S‐ITS (internal transcribed spacer) rDNA sequence and a phylogenetic analysis of ITS sequences from yeast. Therefore, this yeast isolate was named as Candida‐like symbiotes. Candida‐like symbiotes was found to exist in fat bodies, ovaries and newly laid eggs of the BPH, but not in the heads, thoraxes and mid‐guts. In addition, the number of Candida‐like symbiotes in 1 × 106 of purified YLS from BPH fat bodies was speculated to be (5.32 ± 0.22) × 104 on the basis of a quantitative PCR analysis.
Management of diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) by mating disruption
Authors: Wu Qing‐Jun , Zhang Shu‐Fa , Yao Jin‐Liang , Xu Bao‐Yun , Wang Shao‐Li , Zhang You‐Jun
Published: April 2012

Abstract  Field trials were conducted in China in 2008 and 2009 to evaluate the efficacy of mating disruption (MD) on diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella, in cabbage, Brassica oleracea var. capitata. Effectiveness was positively correlated with the MD dispenser density in the field. A density of 167 MD dispensers per ha produced an average population decrease of about 50% compared to the conventional‐practice field. Significant fewer males were captured in pheromone‐treated and conventional‐practice fields than in the blank control field, but the difference was not significant between the pheromone‐treated and conventional‐practice fields. In addition, fewer eggs and larvae were observed in pheromone‐treated fields. Our results suggest mating disruption coupled with minimal insecticidal supplements is a promising solution for resistance management and control of diamondback moth infestation.
Effects of cross‐cultural and language training on expatriates’ adjustment and job performance in Vietnam
Authors: Wang Yu‐Lin , Tran Emma
Published: April 2012

The purpose of this study is to explore the relationships among pre‐departure cross‐cultural training, post‐arrival cross‐cultural training, language training, expatriates’ adjustment (general, interaction, work), and job performance. Questionnaire data were collected from 114 expatriates and their supervisors, who evaluated the expatriate's job performance in Vietnam. The results indicates that pre‐departure cross‐cultural training, post‐arrival cross‐cultural training, and language training all are positively associated with general, interaction, and work adjustment ability. An expatriate's interaction and work adjustment have significant impacts on job performance; they partially mediate the relationship between training and job performance. Post‐arrival cross‐cultural training has the strongest impact on expatriate general and work adjustment. Language training is most significant for interaction adjustment. Of the three types, post‐arrival cross‐cultural training plays the most critical role in expatriate adjustment. Limitations and recommendations for future research are presented at the end of the paper.
Intermittent Granulocyte and Monocyte Apheresis Versus Mercaptopurine for Maintaining Remission of Ulcerative Colitis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Sakuraba Atsushi , Sato Toshiro , Morohoshi Yuichi , Matsuoka Katsuyoshi , Okamoto Susumu , Inoue Nagamu , Takaishi Hiromasa , Ogata Haruhiko , Iwao Yasushi , Hibi Toshifumi
Published: April 2012

The effect of granulocyte and monocyte adsorption apheresis (GMA) on prevention of relapse of ulcerative colitis (UC) is not clear. This was a pilot open‐labeled, prospective, randomized, unblinded study to compare the tolerability and efficacy of intermittent GMA (once every 2 weeks) with mercaptopurine to maintain remission of UC. Twenty‐one patients with UC, who had achieved remission by induction therapies were randomly assigned to receive either intermittent GMA (N = 10) or oral mercaptopurine (0.5 mg/kg per day; N = 11). The study period was 24 months. The rate of the patients maintaining remission and the incidences of adverse effects were compared between the two groups. At 24 months, seven of 10 patients (70.0%) on intermittent GMA and seven of 11 patients (63.6%, P = 1.00) on oral mercaptopurine were still in remission. Three patients relapsed in each group. One patient taking mercaptopurine, but none receiving intermittent GMA, dropped out because of adverse effects. Intermittent therapy with GMA was well tolerated and a substantial proportion of patients maintained remission. Intermittent GMA therapy in maintaining remission of UC merits further investigation.
A COMPARISON OF THREE COMMONLY USED METHODS FOR TREATING NO PREFERENCE VOTES
Authors: ENNIS JOHN M. , ENNIS DANIEL M.
Published: April 2012

The treatment of no preference votes continues to be an issue in sensory science, especially as the proper treatment of these votes has recently gained importance in advertising claims support. There are currently three main methods in common use: dropping the no preference votes, splitting the votes equally and splitting the votes proportionally according to the results among those who expressed a preference. The analyses then proceed as if the data were binomially distributed. In this paper, we compare these methods with respect to power and type I error. We show that proportional splitting returns more false alarms than expected and hence should not be used. We then discuss the meaningful interpretation of statistical significance in the presence of large numbers of no preference votes before providing general recommendations and indicating a promising direction of future research in this area.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

When researchers choose a specific method of data analysis, they implicitly choose the effect of that analysis on their conclusions. Thus, it is important to compare rival methods of analysis where they exist. In the case of handling no preference votes, three analytic methods are in common use. These methods – dropping, equal splitting and proportional splitting – are compared in this paper with respect to power and type I error. This comparison, together with the ensuing discussion and recommendations, helps researchers make more informed decisions in their choice of analytic method for data that includes no preference votes.