bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Universal profiles of the intracluster medium from Suzaku X-ray and Subaru weak-lensing observations
Authors: Okabe Nobuhiro , Umetsu Keiichi , Tamura Takayuki , Fujita Yutaka , Takizawa Motokazu , Zhang Yu-Ying , Matsushita Kyoko , Hamana Takashi , Fukazawa Yasushi , Futamase Toshifumi , Kawaharada Madoka , Miyazaki Satoshi , Mochizuki Yukiko , Nakazawa Kazuhiro , Ohashi Takaya , Ota Naomi , Sasaki Toru , Sato Kosuke , Tam Sutieng
Published: September 2014

We conduct a joint X-ray and weak-lensing study of four relaxed galaxy clusters (Hydra A, A  478, A 1689, and A 1835) observed by both Suzaku and Subaru out to virial radii, with the aim of understanding recently discovered unexpected features of the intracluster medium (ICM) in cluster outskirts. We show that the average hydrostatic-to-lensing total mass ratio for the four clusters decreases from ∼ 70% to ∼ 40% as the overdensity contrast decreases from 500 to the virial value. The average gas mass fraction from lensing total mass estimates increases with cluster radius and agrees with the cosmic mean baryon fraction within the virial radius, whereas the X-ray-based gas fraction considerably exceeds the cosmic values due to underestimation of the hydrostatic mass. We also develop a new advanced method for determining normalized cluster radial profiles for multiple X-ray observables by simultaneously taking into account both their radial dependence and multivariate scaling relations with weak-lensing masses. Although the four clusters span a range of halo mass, concentration, X-ray luminosity, and redshift, we find that the gas entropy, pressure, temperature, and density profiles are all remarkably self-similar when scaled with the weak-lensing M200 mass and r200 radius. The entropy monotonically increases out to ∼ 0.5 r200 ∼ r1000 following the accretion shock heating model K(r) ∝ r1.1, and flattens at ≳ 0.5 r200. The universality of the scaled entropy profiles indicates that the thermalization mechanism over the entire cluster region (> 0.1 r200) is controlled by gravitation in a common way for all clusters, although the heating efficiency in the outskirts needs to be modified from the standard r1.1 law. The bivariate scaling functions of the gas density and temperature reveal that the flattening of the outskirts entropy profile is caused by the steepening of the temperature, rather than the flattening of the gas density.
A Sparsity-Based Model of Bounded Rationality *
Authors: Gabaix Xavier
Published: September 2014

This article defines and analyzes a “sparse max” operator, which is a less than fully attentive and rational version of the traditional max operator. The agent builds (as economists do) a simplified model of the world which is sparse, considering only the variables of first-order importance. His stylized model and his resulting choices both derive from constrained optimization. Still, the sparse max remains tractable to compute. Moreover, the induced outcomes reflect basic psychological forces governing limited attention. The sparse max yields a behavioral version of basic chapters of the microeconomics textbook: consumer demand and competitive equilibrium. I obtain a behavioral version of Marshallian and Hicksian demand, Arrow-Debreu competitive equilibrium, the Slutsky matrix, the Edgeworth box, Roy’s identity, and so on. The Slutsky matrix is no longer symmetric: nonsalient prices are associated with anomalously small demand elasticities. Because the consumer exhibits nominal illusion, in the Edgeworth box, the offer curve is a two-dimensional surface rather than a one-dimensional curve. As a result, different aggregate price levels correspond to materially distinct competitive equilibria, in a similar spirit to a Phillips curve. The Arrow-Debreu welfare theorems typically do not hold. This framework provides a way to assess which parts of basic microeconomics are robust, and which are not, to the assumption of perfect maximization.
Effects of Sevoflurane and Propofol on Frontal Electroencephalogram Power and Coherence
Authors: Akeju Oluwaseun , Westover M. Brandon , Pavone Kara J. , Sampson Aaron L. , Hartnack Katharine E. , Brown Emery N. , Purdon Patrick L.
Published: September 2014

Background:

The neural mechanisms of anesthetic vapors have not been studied in depth. However, modeling and experimental studies on the intravenous anesthetic propofol indicate that potentiation of γ-aminobutyric acid receptors leads to a state of thalamocortical synchrony, observed as coherent frontal alpha oscillations, associated with unconsciousness. Sevoflurane, an ether derivative, also potentiates γ-aminobutyric acid receptors. However, in humans, sevoflurane-induced coherent frontal alpha oscillations have not been well detailed.

Methods:

To study the electroencephalogram dynamics induced by sevoflurane, the authors identified age- and sex-matched patients in which sevoflurane (n = 30) or propofol (n = 30) was used as the sole agent for maintenance of general anesthesia during routine surgery. The authors compared the electroencephalogram signatures of sevoflurane with that of propofol using time-varying spectral and coherence methods.

Results:

Sevoflurane general anesthesia is characterized by alpha oscillations with maximum power and coherence at approximately 10 Hz, (mean ± SD; peak power, 4.3 ± 3.5 dB; peak coherence, 0.73 ± 0.1). These alpha oscillations are similar to those observed during propofol general anesthesia, which also has maximum power and coherence at approximately 10 Hz (peak power, 2.1 ± 4.3 dB; peak coherence, 0.71 ± 0.1). However, sevoflurane also exhibited a distinct theta coherence signature (peak frequency, 4.9 ± 0.6 Hz; peak coherence, 0.58 ± 0.1). Slow oscillations were observed in both cases, with no significant difference in power or coherence.

Conclusions:

The study results indicate that sevoflurane, like propofol, induces coherent frontal alpha oscillations and slow oscillations in humans to sustain the anesthesia-induced unconscious state. These results suggest a shared molecular and systems-level mechanism for the unconscious state induced by these drugs.
High Adherence to a Gluten‐Free Diet in Adolescents With Screening‐Detected Celiac Disease
Authors: Webb Charlotta , Myléus Anna , Norström Fredrik , Hammarroth Solveig , Högberg Lotta , Lagerqvist Carina , Rosén Anna , Sandström Olof , Stenhammar Lars , Ivarsson Anneli , Carlsson Annelie
Published: September 2014

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to evaluate the gluten‐free diet (GFD) adherence after 1 year of follow‐up in children with screening‐detected celiac disease (CD) in a general population.

Methods:

A total of 18,325 twelve‐year‐olds were invited to participate in a population‐based CD screening (Exploring the Iceberg of Celiacs in Sweden), of whom 13,279 participated. In 240 children, CD was detected through elevated anti–tissue transglutaminase antibodies 2 (TG2‐IgA) and verified by a small‐intestinal biopsy. This substudy included 210 children with TG2‐IgA, evaluated both at the initial biopsy occasion and at 1‐year follow‐up. GFD adherence was evaluated by a combination of TG2‐IgA measurements and self‐reported adherence (n = 193).

Results:

After 1 year, 85% (179/210) had normalized TG2‐IgA levels (<5 U/mL). Among those who had >50 U/mL at diagnosis, 25% (16/63) still had elevated TG2‐IgA, but for the majority their initial values were more than halved. Most reported a high level of GFD adherence (“always” 82% [158/193] and “often” 16% [30/193]), and 75% [145/193] reported always adhering combined with normalized TG2‐IgA. Although reporting that they were always adherent, 13 (6.7%) had not yet normalized their TG2‐IgA levels completely; however, a majority of these initially had the highest TG2‐IgA levels.

Conclusions:

GFD adherence is high in adolescents with CD detected by screening of the general population of Swedish 12‐year‐olds. Almost all of them had normalized serology and reported GFD adherence at the 1‐year follow‐up. A few adolescents who reported GFD adherence, however, had elevated TG2‐IgA levels, suggesting more severe disease and/or nonadherence.
Monoclonal antibodies against all known variants of EspA: development of a simple diagnostic test for enteropathogenic Escherichia coli based on a key virulence factor
Authors: Praekelt Uta , Reissbrodt Rolf , Kresse Andreas , Pavankumar Asalapuram , Sankaran Krishnan , James Roger , Jesudason Mary , Anandan Shalini , Prakasam Agila , Balaji Veeraraghavan , Dutta Shanta , Dutta Sanjucta , Ramamurthy Thandavarayan , Fischer Renate , Sander Peter , Schaumann Reiner , Navarro Armando , Williams Peter
Published: September 2014

Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) are a major cause of infant diarrhoea in developing countries and a significant public health issue in industrialized countries. Currently there are no simple tests available for the diagnosis of EPEC. Serology of O-antigens is widely used routinely in many laboratories throughout the world, even though it has been known for many years to be an unreliable indicator of EPEC virulence. We have developed a simple, low-cost immunodiagnostic test based on the EspA filament, an essential virulence factor of EPEC and the related enterohaemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC). Using recombinant proteins of the five major variants of EspA as immunogens, we raised a panel of three monoclonal antibodies in mice that detects all variants of the native target in bacterial cultures. The antibodies proved suitable for application in sandwich-type assays, including ELISA and lateral flow immunoassays (LFI). Prototypes for both assays were specific for EPEC and EHEC strains when tested against a panel of control micro-organisms. We have also developed a simple, affordable culture medium, A/E medium, which optimizes expression of EspA allowing improved sensitivity of detection compared with standard Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s medium. Together these reagents form the basis of robust, informative tests for EPEC for use especially in developing countries but also for routine screening in any clinical laboratory.
Seed-Specific Expression of a Feedback-Insensitive Form of CYSTATHIONINE-γ-SYNTHASE in Arabidopsis Stimulates Metabolic and Transcriptomic Responses Associated with Desiccation Stress
Authors: Cohen Hagai , Israeli Hadasa , Matityahu Ifat , Amir Rachel
Published: September 2014

With an aim to elucidate novel metabolic and transcriptional interactions associated with methionine (Met) metabolism in seeds, we have produced transgenic Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) seeds expressing a feedback-insensitive form of CYSTATHIONINE-γ-SYNTHASE, a key enzyme of Met synthesis. Metabolic profiling of these seeds revealed that, in addition to higher levels of Met, the levels of many other amino acids were elevated. The most pronounced changes were the higher levels of stress-related amino acids (isoleucine, leucine, valine, and proline), sugars, intermediates of the tricarboxylic acid cycle, and polyamines and lower levels of polyols, cysteine, and glutathione. These changes reflect stress responses and an altered mitochondrial energy metabolism. The transgenic seeds also had higher contents of total proteins and starch but lower water contents. In accordance with the metabolic profiles, microarray analysis identified a strong induction of genes involved in defense mechanisms against osmotic and drought conditions, including those mediated by the signaling cascades of ethylene and abscisic acid. These changes imply that stronger desiccation processes occur during seed development. The expression levels of transcripts controlling the levels of Met, sugars, and tricarboxylic acid cycle metabolites were also significantly elevated. Germination assays showed that the transgenic seeds had higher germination rates under salt and osmotic stresses and in the presence of ethylene substrate and abscisic acid. However, under oxidative conditions, the transgenic seeds displayed much lower germination rates. Altogether, the data provide new insights on the factors regulating Met metabolism in Arabidopsis seeds and on the mechanisms by which elevated Met levels affect seed composition and behavior.
An algorithm for calculating diffraction profiles of 2θ scans for multiple diffraction from crystals and thin films
Authors: Chen Hsin-Yi , Chiu Mau-Sen , Chu Chia-Hung , Chang Shih-Lin
Published: September 2014

An algorithm is developed based on the dynamical theory of X-ray diffraction for calculating the profiles of the diffracted beam,i.e.the diagrams of the intensity distributionversus2θ when a crystal is fixed at an angle of its maximum diffracted intensity. Similar to Fraunhofer (far-field) diffraction for a single-slit case, in the proposed algorithm the diffracted beam from one atomic layer excited by X-rays is described by the composition of (N+ 1) coherent point oscillators in the crystal. The amplitude and the initial phase of the electric field for each oscillator can be calculated based on the dynamical theory with given boundary conditions. This algorithm not only gives diffraction profiles but also provides the contribution of the excitation of modes when extremely asymmetric diffraction is involved in the diffraction process. Examples such as extremely asymmetric two-beam surface diffraction and three-beam surface diffraction are presented and discussed in detail.
Organizational innovation and integrated care: lessons from Buurtzorg
Authors: Nandram Sharda , Koster Nicole
Published: September 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to describe the case of Buurtzorg Nederland as a good practice example of integrated care, focussing in particular on the organizational aspects of its innovation. As the field of integrated care is still in many ways in its infancy, it is hoped that lessons learned could help other agencies and other systems seeking to reform community-based care.

Design/methodology/approach

– Drawing on a grounded approach, this case study is based on individual interviews with 38 respondents comprising staff, founder, co-founders, coaches, nurses, clients and a trainer and analysis of internal company reports.

Findings

– Based on the case study the authors suggest an integrated approach as the main explanation of the good practice at Buurtzorg rather than a focus on one single concept such as management structure, information and communication technology, community-based care or a patient focus. Next to the multi-level approach it furthermore shows a multi-dimensional approach as explanation for its success. In this perspective the primary process is the leading process but fully supported by the secondary process containing support facilities from a head office of the organization.

Practical implications

– Buurtzorg Nederland has been awarded with several prizes for its good management practice in integrated care and attention internationally is growing.

Originality/value

– This paper provides the first case study write-up of the Buurtzorg model for an international audience, based on extensive research to be published in an international book.
Food insecurity and its determinants
Authors: Warr Peter
Published: September 2014

Expansion of aggregate food supplies within developing countries themselves is strongly associated with reduced undernourishment. It is not sufficient to rely solely on aggregate economic growth or reductions in poverty incidence to deliver improved food security. But the evidence also shows that higher food prices significantly increase the rate of undernourishment. It is therefore important to stimulate agricultural output without raising domestic food prices. Improvements in agricultural productivity achieve that, but agricultural protection aimed at food self‐sufficiency does not, because the objective of reducing imports is achieved through an increase in domestic food prices. Although this process delivers benefits to those food insecure people who are net sellers of food, in most poor countries their number is exceeded by the food insecure people who are net buyers of food. Increased food prices make the latter group more food insecure. Food self‐sufficiency does not imply food security.
Impact of debt structure on production efficiency and financial performance of Broadacre farms in Western Australia
Authors: Mugera Amin W. , Nyambane Gerald G.
Published: September 2014

Farming activities are often financed using debt, yet empirical studies investigating the relationship between farm debt structure and performance are still rare. Using a 10 year unbalanced panel of Broadacre farms in Western Australia, we relate the impact of long‐term debt, short‐term debt and tax liability on farm performance measured by input‐oriented technical efficiency and return on assets. We find farm technical efficiency is positively related to short‐term debt, tax liability and capital investment, but negatively related to off‐farm income generating activities. Long‐term debt has no effect on production efficiency and return on assets. These results are robust to both parametric and nonparametric methods of estimation.
The cultural environment behind successful maternal death and morbidity reviews
Authors: Lewis G
Published: September 2014

This paper discusses some of the background principles which, through wide experience of instituting reviews of maternal deaths or near‐misses around the world, appear common to their successful introduction. A supportive culture at personal, institutional and national level underpinned by the fostering of professionalism and the development of an ethos of safety against a wider supportive environment is needed. Reviews undertaken at a local level are as beneficial as those at a regional or population level and should be encouraged as a routine part of the quality improvement agenda for each and every healthcare facility.
The confidential enquiry into maternal deaths in South Africa: a case study
Authors: Moodley J , Pattinson RC , Fawcus S , Schoon MG , Moran N , Shweni PM ,   on behalf of the National Committee on Confidential Enquiries into Maternal Deaths in South Africa
Published: September 2014

The Confidential Enquiry into Maternal Deaths (CEMD) in South Africa has been operational for 15 years. This case study describes the process of notification and independent assessment of maternal deaths, predominantly in facilities. In the earlier years of the Enquiry, institutional maternal mortality ratio increased and was 176.2 per 100 000 live births in the 2008–10 triennium; thereafter it decreased to 146.7 in the 2011/12 period. The slow progress was due to the significant contribution of HIV/AIDs to maternal mortality and challenges in implementing the recommendations that were devised from the findings of the Enquiry. Nevertheless, the CEMD process has been maintained and strengthened so it is currently able to perform routine maternal death surveillance at both national and district levels, identify deficiencies within the health system, generate reports and also provide early warning about alarming trends such as the increasing numbers of deaths due to caesarean‐section‐associated haemorrhage.
The Moldovan experience of maternal death reviews
Authors: Hodorogea S , Friptu V
Published: September 2014

A Confidential Enquiry into Maternal Deaths is an anonymous, multidisciplinary and systematic review of all cases of maternal mortality. This paper describes one such process implemented at national level in Moldova. Its aim was to conduct an in‐depth review of the underlying causes and circumstances surrounding each mother's death to learn lessons to improve care in future. Its findings showed that deaths were predominantly due to direct obstetric causes, especially haemorrhage and sepsis, and adverse social determinants, particularly poverty and migration also played a decisive role in more than half of the cases. The final report identified potentially remediable actions and the key areas requiring interventions by the health sector, administrators and the community. Its recommendations have enabled the implementation of some solutions to help prevent future maternal deaths, including the development of evidence‐based clinical guidelines.
Establishing cause of maternal death in Malawi via facility‐based review and application of the ICD‐MM classification
Authors: Owolabi H , Ameh CA , Bar‐Zeev S , Adaji S , Kachale F , van den Broek N
Published: September 2014

Maternal death review (MDR) is an accepted process that is implemented across Malawi and ‘underlying cause of death’ is assigned by healthcare providers using a standard MDR form. Mixed‐methods approach. Key informant interviews with eight stakeholders involved in MDR. Secondary analysis of MDR forms for 54 maternal deaths. Comparison of assigned cause of death by healthcare providers conducting MDR at health facility level with cause assigned by researchers using the International Classification of Diseases Maternal Mortality (ICD‐MM) classification. MDR teams, analysts and policymakers reported facing challenges in completing the forms, analysing and using information. The concepts of underlying (primary) and contributing (secondary) causes of death are often misunderstood. Healthcare providers using only MDR forms reported cause of death as non‐obstetric complications in 39.6% and pregnancy‐related infection in 11.3% of cases. For 30.2% of cases, no clear clinical cause of death was recorded. The most commonly assigned underlying cause of death using ICD‐MM was obstetric haemorrhage (32.1%), non‐obstetric complications (24.5%) and pregnancy‐related infection (22.6%). There was poor agreement between cause(s) of maternal death assigned by healthcare providers in the field and trained researchers using the new ICD‐MM classification (κ statistic; 0.219). The majority of cases could be reclassified using the ICD‐MM and this provided a more specific cause of death. A more structured and user‐friendly MDR form is required. Accurate classification of cause of death is important. Dissemination of, and training in the use of the new ICD‐MM classification system will be helpful to healthcare providers conducting MDR in Malawi.
Confidential review of maternal deaths in Kerala: a country case study
Authors: Paily VP , Ambujam K , Rajasekharan Nair V , Thomas B
Published: September 2014

The Confidential Review of Maternal Deaths (CRMD) in Kerala was started in 2004, with support from the World Health Organization and modelled on the United Kingdom Confidential Enquiries into Maternal Deaths. It is carried out by the Kerala Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecology with support from the government of Kerala. The leading causes of maternal deaths identified during the period 2004–09 were haemorrhage, hypertension, amniotic fluid embolism, heart disease and sepsis. Follow‐up actions in the form of advocating for emergency preparedness, proper transport and standard protocols for management were initiated. Recently the international arm of the United Kingdom National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence has helped to establish standards to improve obstetric care in Kerala based on the findings of the CRMD Kerala.
Using detection dogs and genetic analyses of scat to expand knowledge and assist felid conservation in Misiones, Argentina
Authors: DeMATTEO Karen E. , RINAS Miguel A. , ARGÜELLES Carina F. , HOLMAN Bernardo E. , DI BITETTI Mario S. , DAVENPORT Barbara , PARKER Patricia G. , EGGERT Lori S.
Published: September 2014

Many carnivores require large ranges to meet their ecological and energetic needs; however, anthropogenic changes threaten species and their habitats. Camera traps have been used to effectively collect data on carnivores in a variety of habitat types; however, a single survey effort is typically limited to species that have similar body size, habitat use and movement patterns, and individual identification of animals is not always possible. We evaluated whether scat detection dogs could effectively survey for 4 wide‐ranging felids that vary in these characteristics: jaguars (Panthera onca), pumas (Puma concolor), ocelots (Leopardus pardalis) and oncillas (Leopardus tigrinus). From June to October 2009 and May to August 2011, a detection dog‐handler team detected 588 scats, from which 176 unique genotypes were detected. We assigned sex to 84.7% of the genotyped scats and identified 55 individuals multiple times. The effectiveness of these noninvasive techniques (detection dogs and genetic analyses of scat) not only opens the door for additional studies in areas that were previously difficult or impossible with standard survey techniques, but also provides conservationists with a set of tools that overcome some of the limitations associated with the use of camera traps alone.
Stoichiometry of a semi‐aquatic plethodontid salamander: Intraspecific variation due to location, size and diet
Authors: MILANOVICH Joseph R. , HOPTON Matthew E.
Published: September 2014

Ecological stoichiometry provides a framework to investigate an organism's relationship to nutrient cycles. An organism's stoichiometry is thought to constrain its contribution to nutrient cycles (recycling or storage), and to limit its growth and reproduction. Factors that influence the stoichiometry of a consumer are largely unstudied, but what is known is that consumer stoichiometry is influenced by the elemental requirements of the consumer (e.g. for growth, reproduction and cell maintenance) and the availability of elements. We examined whole‐body stoichiometry of larval southern two‐lined salamanders (Eurycea cirrigera) and described the influence of location, body size, stoichiometry of diet items, and environmental nutrient supply on whole‐body stoichiometry. Mean composition of phosphorous was 2.6%, nitrogen was 11.3%, and carbon was 39.6%, which are similar for other aquatic vertebrate taxa. The most significant predictor of whole‐body stoichiometry was the site where the samples were collected, which was significant for each nutrient and nutrient ratio. Body size and stoichiometry of diet items were also predictors of Eurycea cirrigera stoichiometry. Our study suggests that spatial differences in environmental nutrient supply have a stronger influence on consumer whole‐body stoichiometry among similar‐sized larvae compared to life history traits, such as body size or diet.
Assessment of Myocardial Infarct Size with Body Surface Potential Mapping: Validation against Contrast‐Enhanced Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Kylmälä Minna M. , Konttila Teijo , Vesterinen Paula , Kivistö Sari M. , Lauerma Kirsi , Lindholm Mats , Väänänen Heikki , Stenroos Matti , Nieminen Markku S. , Hänninen Helena , Toivonen Lauri
Published: September 2014

Background

Assessment of myocardial infarct (MI) size is important for therapeutic and prognostic reasons. We used body surface potential mapping (BSPM) to evaluate whether single‐lead electrocardiographic variables can assess MI size.

Methods

We performed BSPM with 120 leads covering the front and back chest (plus limb leads) on 57 patients at different phases of MI: acutely, during healing, and in the chronic phase. Final MI size was determined by contrast‐enhanced cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (DE‐CMR) and correlated with various computed depolarization‐ and repolarization‐phase BSPM variables. We also calculated correlations between BSPM variables and enzymatic MI size (peak CK‐MBm).

Results

BSPM variables reflecting the Q‐ and R wave showed strong correlations with MI size at all stages of MI. R width performed the best, showing its strongest correlation with MI size on the upper right back, there representing the width of the “reciprocal Q wave” (r = 0.64–0.71 for DE‐CMR, r = 0.57–0.64 for CK‐MBm, P < 0.0001). Repolarization‐phase variables showed only weak correlations with MI size in the acute phase, but these correlations improved during MI healing. T‐wave variables and the QRSSTT integral showed their best correlations with DE‐CMR defined MI size on the precordial area, at best r = −0.57, P < 0.0001 in the chronic phase. The best performing BSPM variables could differentiate between large and small infarcts at all stages of MI.

Conclusions

Computed, single‐lead electrocardiographic variables can estimate the final infarct size at all stages of MI, and differentiate large infarcts from small.
Electrocardiographic Changes Announcing the Rapid Development of Apical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in an Adult Male
Authors: Freites Alfonso , Canovas Ester , Rubio J.
Published: September 2014

We presented the case of an adult male without structural heart disease, who in the period of 3 years developed apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. ECG changes preceded the development of ventricular hypertrophy. We discussed the appearance of ventricular enlargement during adulthood, in some cases of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HC), and how the ECG abnormalities may precede the onset of ventricular hypertrophy.
Childhood consequences of maternal obesity and excessive weight gain during pregnancy
Authors: Gaillard Romy , Felix Janine F. , Duijts Liesbeth , Jaddoe Vincent W.V.
Published: September 2014

Obesity is a major public health concern. In western countries, the prevalence of obesity in pregnant women has strongly increased, with reported prevalence rates reaching 30%. Also, up to 40% of women gain an excessive amount of weight during pregnancy. Recent observational studies and meta‐analyses strongly suggest long‐term impact of maternal obesity and excessive weight gain during pregnancy on adiposity, cardiovascular and respiratory related health outcomes in their children. These observations suggest that maternal adiposity during pregnancy may program common health problems in the offspring. Currently, it remains unclear whether the observed associations are causal, or just reflect confounding by family‐based sociodemographic or lifestyle‐related factors. Parent–offspring studies, sibling comparison studies, Mendelian randomization studies and randomized trials can help to explore the causality and underlying mechanisms. Also, the potential for prevention of common diseases in future generations by reducing maternal obesity and excessive weight gain during pregnancy needs to be explored.
A between‐experiment analysis of relationships linking dietary protein intake and post‐weaning diarrhea in weanling pigs under conditions of experimental infection with an enterotoxigenic strain of Escherichia coli
Authors: Heo Jung Min , Kim Jae Cheol , Yoo Jaehong , Pluske John R.
Published: September 2014

Numerous experiments have demonstrated that feeding a lower protein diet decreases protein fermentation in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and reduces the incidence of post‐weaning diarrhea (PWD). However, there is a lack of holistic evidence underpinning the relationship between feeding a lower protein diet and PWD in relation to physiological responses and protein fermentation in the GIT. The scope of this article, therefore, will: (i) focus on the impact of dietary protein levels on selected indices of GIT health in weaned pigs without and with experimental infection with an enterotoxigenic strain of Escherichia coli; and (ii) attempt to conduct regression analysis to examine the relationships between dietary‐origin protein intake, nitrogen fermentation indices, fecal consistency and the incidence of PWD. We used datasets generated from a series of four intensive experiments in weaned pigs. The collective results derived from these datasets indicate that restriction of daily protein intake to less than 60 g through feeding a lower protein diet for as little as 7 days after weaning reduced the incidence of PWD commensurate with a reduction in protein fermentation indices.
Genetic Analysis of Diffuse High‐Grade Astrocytomas in Infancy Defines a Novel Molecular Entity
Authors: Gielen Gerrit H. , Gessi Marco , Buttarelli Francesca R. , Baldi Caterina , Hammes Jennifer , zur Muehlen Anja , Doerner Evelyn , Denkhaus Dorota , Warmuth‐Metz Monika , Giangaspero Felice , Lauriola Libero , von Bueren André O. , Kramm Christof M. , Waha Andreas , Pietsch Torsten
Published: September 2014

Pediatric high‐grade gliomas are considered to be different when compared to adult high‐grade gliomas in their pathogenesis and biological behavior. Recently, common genetic alterations, including mutations in the H3F3A/ATRX/DAXX pathway, have been described in approximately 30% of the pediatric cases. However, only few cases of infant high‐grade gliomas have been analyzed so far. We investigated the molecular features of 35 infants with diffuse high‐grade astrocytomas, including 8 anaplastic astrocytomas [World Health Organization (WHO) grade III] and 27 glioblastomas (WHO grade IV) by immunohistochemistry, multiplex ligation probe‐dependent amplification (MLPA), pyrosequencing of glioma‐associated genes and molecular inversion probe (MIP) assay. MIP and MLPA analyses showed that chromosomal alterations are significantly less frequent in infants compared with high‐grade gliomas in older children and adults. We only identified H3F3A K27M in 2 of 34 cases (5.9%), with both tumors located in the posterior fossa. PDGFRA amplifications were absent, and CDKN2A loss could be observed only in two cases. Conversely, 1q gain (22.7%) and 6q loss (18.2%) were identified in a subgroup of tumors. Loss of SNORD located on chromosome 14q32 was observed in 27.3% of the infant tumors, a focal copy number change not previously described in gliomas. Our findings indicate that infant high‐grade gliomas appear to represent a distinct genetic entity suggesting a different pathogenesis and biological behavior.
Selective targeting of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 signalling as a novel therapeutic approach for cardiovascular disease in diabetes
Authors: Tate Mitchel , Chong Aaron , Robinson Emma , Green Brian D , Grieve David J
Published: September 2014

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) is an incretin hormone whose glucose‐dependent insulinotropic actions have been harnessed as a novel therapy for glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes. Although it has been known for some time that the GLP‐1 receptor is expressed in the CVS where it mediates important physiological actions, it is only recently that specific cardiovascular effects of GLP‐1 in the setting of diabetes have been described. GLP‐1 confers indirect benefits in cardiovascular disease (CVD) under both normal and hyperglycaemic conditions via reducing established risk factors, such as hypertension, dyslipidaemia and obesity, which are markedly increased in diabetes. Emerging evidence indicates that GLP‐1 also exerts direct effects on specific aspects of diabetic CVD, such as endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, angiogenesis and adverse cardiac remodelling. However, the majority of studies have employed experimental models of diabetic CVD and information on the effects of GLP‐1 in the clinical setting is limited, although several large‐scale trials are ongoing. It is clearly important to gain a detailed knowledge of the cardiovascular actions of GLP‐1 in diabetes given the large number of patients currently receiving GLP‐1‐based therapies. This review will therefore discuss current understanding of the effects of GLP‐1 on both cardiovascular risk factors in diabetes and direct actions on the heart and vasculature in this setting and the evidence implicating specific targeting of GLP‐1 as a novel therapy for CVD in diabetes.
Fragrance patch tests prepared in advance may give false‐negative reactions
Authors: Mowitz Martin , Svedman Cecilia , Zimerson Erik , Bruze Magnus
Published: September 2014

Background

Several of the ingredients in fragrance mix I (FM I) have been shown to evaporate from petrolatum preparations applied in test chambers to an extent that can be suspected to affect the patch test result.

Objectives

To compare the reactivity towards FM I and fragrance mix II (FM II) when they are applied in test chambers in advance and immediately prior to the patch test occasion.

Methods

Seven hundred and ninety‐five consecutive patients were simultaneously patch tested with duplicate samples of FM I and FM II. One sample was applied in the test chamber 6 days in advance (6D sample), and the other sample was applied immediately before the patients were patch tested (fresh sample).

Results

Twenty‐two (2.8%) patients reacted exclusively to the fresh sample of FM I, 6 (0.7%) reacted exclusively to the 6D sample, and 22 (2.8%) reacted to both samples. The corresponding numbers for FM II were 9 (1.1%) for the fresh sample, 6 (0.7%) for the 6D sample and 12 (1.5%) for both samples.

Conclusions

There was a statistically significant difference between the numbers of patients reacting to the fresh and 6D samples of FM I. No corresponding difference was observed for FM II. This can probably be explained by differences in volatilities between the ingredients of FM I and FM II.
Predictors of compliance with tornado warnings issued in Joplin, Missouri, in 2011
Authors: Paul Bimal Kanti , Stimers Mitchel , Caldas Marcellus
Published: September 2014

Joplin, a city in the southwest corner of Missouri, United States, suffered an EF‐5 tornado in the late afternoon of 22 May 2011. This event, which claimed the lives of 162 people, represents the deadliest single tornado to strike the US since modern record‐keeping began in 1950. This study examines the factors associated with responses to tornado warnings. Based on a post‐tornado survey of survivors in Joplin, it reveals that tornado warnings were adequate and timely. Multivariate logistic regression identified four statistically significant determinants of compliance with tornado warnings: number of warning sources, whether respondents were at home when the tornado struck, past tornado experience, and gender. The findings suggest several recommendations, the implementation of which will further improve responses to tornado warnings.
Sri Lankan livelihoods after the tsunami: searching for entrepreneurs, unveiling relations of power
Authors: Kapadia Kamal
Published: September 2014

This paper analyses the performance of aid‐funded livelihoods recovery efforts in Sri Lanka following the Indian Ocean tsunami of 26 December 2004, with special attention paid to the effects on the rural poor. It argues that successful livelihoods recovery was hampered by an excessive focus by aid agencies on entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship, and by the lack of a politically informed understanding of the economy. Based on ethnographic and survey‐based research, the study demonstrates that the category of ‘entrepreneur’ is misleading for large parts of the economy. Indeed, the desire to build an entrepreneurial economy actually hampered successful livelihoods recovery in Sri Lanka and, in some cases, reinforced inequitable relations of power. The paper concludes that for livelihoods recovery programmes to be effective, they must be founded on an understanding of the relations of power that constitute the economy; these relations operate across scales, and are historically and geographically specific.
Assessment of Right Ventricular Longitudinal Strain in Patients with Ischemic Cardiomyopathy: Head‐to‐Head Comparison between Two‐Dimensional Speckle‐Based Strain and Velocity Vector Imaging Using Volumetric Assessment by Cardiac Magnetic Resonance as a “Gold Standard”
Authors: Park Jae‐Hyeong , Kusunose Kenya , Motoki Hirohiko , Kwon Deborah H. , Grimm Richard A. , Griffin Brian P. , Marwick Thomas H. , Popović Zoran B.
Published: September 2014

Background

Longitudinal strain of right ventricle (RV) can be used to determine RV systolic function. This study compared RV longitudinal strain values of two different speckle tracking software technologies, velocity vector imaging (VVI) and two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2DSTE), and longitudinal strain by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR).

Methods

We studied 36 patients (28 men, 63 ± 11 years) with ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) who underwent echocardiography with GE machines and CMR. Longitudinal strain of RV analyzed with 2DSTE and VVI in same DICOM files. Longitudinal RV strain analyzed with 2DSTE and VVI in same raw data. These values were compared with RVEF and longitudinal strain by CMR.

Results

VVI strain showed significant correlations with RVEF by CMR (global RV: r = −0.56, P < 0.01, free wall: r = −0.52, P < 0.01, and septum: r = −0.49, P < 0.01). 2DSTE strain also revealed significant correlations (global RV: r = −0.40, P = 0.02, and septum: r = −0.35, P = 0.04). 2DSTE strain had significant bias with wide limits of agreement in global RV and septum compared with CMR strain. 2DSTE strain had significantly lower intra‐observer variability than VVI (P = 0.03) or CMR strain (P = 0.04) in RV‐free wall.

Conclusions

RV longitudinal strains by VVI and 2SDTE demonstrated relatively good correlations with RVEF and longitudinal strain by CMR. However, when compared to CMR‐derived strain, 2DSTE‐derived strain underestimates longitudinal strain of RV septum and of global right ventricle. 2DSTE strain had significantly lower intra‐observer variability compared with VVI or CMR strain analysis.
Niche conservatism among non‐native vertebrates in Europe and North America
Authors: Strubbe Diederik , Beauchard Olivier , Matthysen Erik
Published: September 2014

Niche conservatism, the hypothesis that niches remain constant through time and space, is crucial for the study of biological invasions as it underlies native‐range based predictions of invasion risk. Niche changes between native and non‐native populations are increasingly reported. However, it has been argued that these changes arise mainly because in their novel range, species occupy only a subset of the environments they inhabit in their native range, and not because they expand into environments entirely novel to them. Here, using occurrences of 29 vertebrate species native to either Europe or North America and introduced into the other continent, we assess the prevalence of niche changes between native and non‐native populations and assess whether the changes detected are caused primarily by native niche unfilling in the non‐native range rather than by expansion into novel environments. We show that niche overlap between native and non‐native populations is generally low because of a large degree of niche unfilling in the non‐native range. This most probably reflects an ongoing colonization of the novel range, as niche changes were smaller for species that were introduced longer ago and into a larger number of locations. Niche expansion was rare, and for the few species exhibiting larger amounts of niche overlap, an unfilling of the niche in the native range (e.g. through competition or dispersal limitations) is the most probable explanation. The fact that for most species, the realized non‐native niche is a subset of the realized native niche allows native‐range based niche models to generate accurate predictions of invasion risk. These results suggest that niche changes arising during biological invasions are strongly influenced by propagule pressure and colonization processes, and we argue that introduction history should be taken into account when evaluating niche conservatism in the context of biological invasions.
Association between olfactory identification and parkinsonism in patients with non‐affective psychosis
Authors: Meijer Julia H. , van Harten Peter , Meijer Carin J. , Koeter Maarten W. , Bruggeman Richard , Cahn Wiepke , Kahn René S. , de Haan L. ,   the Genetic Risk and Outcome of Psychosis (GROUP) Study
Published: September 2014

Aim

Olfactory identification deficits (OIDs) are seen in schizophrenia patients and individuals at increased risk for psychosis but its pathophysiology remains unclear. Although dopaminergic imbalance is known to lie at the core of schizophrenia symptomatology, its role in the development of OIDs has not been elucidated yet. This study investigated the association between OIDs and symptoms of parkinsonism as a derivative of dopaminergic functioning.

Methods

In 320 patients diagnosed with non‐affective psychosis, olfactory identification performance was assessed by means of the Sniffin' Sticks task. Level of parkinsonian symptoms was assessed by means of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS‐III). By means of multiple linear regression with bootstrapping, the association between UPDRS and Sniffin' Sticks score was investigated while correcting for potential confounders. A Bonferroni corrected P‐value of 0.007 was used.

Results

Higher UPDRS scores significantly predicted worse olfactory identification in patients with non‐affective psychosis with an unadjusted b = −0.07 (95% CI −0.10 to −0.04) and an adjusted b = −0.04 (95% CI −0.07 to −0.01).

Conclusion

Results provide preliminary evidence that the same vulnerability may underlie the development of parkinsonism and OIDs in patients with non‐affective psychosis. Further investigation should evaluate the clinical value of OIDs as a marker of dopaminergic vulnerability that may predict psychosis.
Comparative transcriptional profiling of human Merkel cells and Merkel cell carcinoma
Authors: Mouchet Nicolas , Coquart Nolwenn , Lebonvallet Nicolas , Le Gall‐Ianotto Christelle , Mogha Ariane , Fautrel Alain , Boulais Nicholas , Dréno Brigitte , Martin Ludovic , Hu Weiguo , Galibert Marie‐Dominique , Misery Laurent
Published: September 2014

Merkel cell carcinoma is believed to be derived from Merkel cells after infection by Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) and other poorly understood events. Transcriptional profiling using cDNA microarrays was performed on cells from MCPy‐negative and MCPy‐positive Merkel cell carcinomas and isolated normal Merkel cells. This microarray revealed numerous significantly upregulated genes and some downregulated genes. The extensive list of genes that were identified in these experiments provides a large body of potentially valuable information of Merkel cell carcinoma carcinogenesis and could represent a source of potential targets for cancer therapy.
Forecasting climate change impacts on the distribution of wetland habitat in the Midwestern United states
Authors: Garris Heath W. , Mitchell Randall J , Fraser Lauchlan H. , Barrett Linda R.
Published: September 2014

Shifting precipitation patterns brought on by climate change threaten to alter the future distribution of wetlands. We developed a set of models to understand the role climate plays in determining wetland formation on a landscape scale and to forecast changes in wetland distribution for the Midwestern United States. These models combined 35 climate variables with 21 geographic and anthropogenic factors thought to encapsulate other major drivers of wetland distribution for the Midwest. All models successfully recreated a majority of the variation in current wetland area within the Midwest, and showed that wetland area was significantly associated with climate, even when controlling for landscape context. Inferential (linear) models identified a consistent negative association between wetland area and isothermality. This is likely the result of regular inundation in areas where precipitation accumulates as snow, then melts faster than drainage capacity. Moisture index seasonality was identified as a key factor distinguishing between emergent and forested wetland types, where forested wetland area at the landscape scale is associated with a greater seasonal variation in water table depth. Forecasting models (neural networks) predicted an increase in potential wetland area in the coming century, with areas conducive to forested wetland formation expanding more rapidly than areas conducive to emergent wetlands. Local cluster analyses identified Iowa and Northeastern Missouri as areas of anticipated wetland expansion, indicating both a risk to crop production within the Midwest Corn Belt and an opportunity for wetland conservation, while Northern Minnesota and Michigan are potentially at risk of wetland losses under a future climate.