bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single timepoint models of dynamic systems
Authors: Sachs K. , Itani S. , Fitzgerald J. , Schoeberl B. , Nolan G. P. , Tomlin C. J.
Published: June 2013

Many interesting studies aimed at elucidating the connectivity structure of biomolecular pathways make use of abundance measurements, and employ statistical and information theoretic approaches to assess connectivities. These studies often do not address the effects of the dynamics of the underlying biological system, yet dynamics give rise to impactful issues such as timepoint selection and its effect on structure recovery. In this work, we study conditions for reliable retrieval of the connectivity structure of a dynamic system, and the impact of dynamics on structure-learning efforts. We encounter an unexpected problem not previously described in elucidating connectivity structure from dynamic systems, show how this confounds structure learning of the system and discuss possible approaches to overcome the confounding effect. Finally, we test our hypotheses on an accurate dynamic model of the IGF signalling pathway. We use two structure-learning methods at four time points to contrast the performance and robustness of those methods in terms of recovering correct connectivity.
Preventive chemotherapy as a strategy for elimination of neglected tropical parasitic diseases: endgame challenges
Authors: Bockarie Moses J. , Kelly-Hope Louise A. , Rebollo Maria , Molyneux David H.
Published: June 2013

Global efforts to address neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) were stimulated in January 2012 by the London declaration at which 22 partners, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO) and major pharmaceutical companies committed to sustaining and expanding NTD programmes to eliminate or eradicate 11 NTDs by 2020 to achieve the goals outlined in the recently published WHO road map. Here, we present the current context of preventive chemotherapy for some NTDs, and discuss the problems faced by programmes as they consider the ‘endgame’, such as difficulties of access to populations in post-conflict settings, limited human and financial resources, and the need to expand access to clean water and improved sanitation for schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis. In the case of onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis, ivermectin treatment carries a significant risk owing to serious adverse effects in some patients co-infected with the tropical eye worm
Loa loa
filariasis. We discuss the challenges of managing complex partnerships, and maintain advocacy messages for the continued support for elimination of these preventable diseases.
Effects of global warming on sensory ecology of rock lizards: increased temperatures alter the efficacy of sexual chemical signals
Authors: Martín José , López Pilar
Published: June 2013

An almost neglected aspect of climate change is its effects on sensory ecology and sexual signals of animals. Signals used in intraspecific communication are expected to evolve to maximize efficacy under a given climatic condition, but it is unlikely that quick changes in environmental conditions could be compensated by similarly quick evolutionary changes in the design of signals. We predict that global warming will lead to a loss of efficacy of some sexual signals, with important consequences for sexual selection.

We examined experimentally the effects of global warming on the efficacy of chemical signals of a mountain lizard (Iberolacerta cyreni).

We first showed how environmental temperatures in the study area during the mating season of lizards have actually increased in the last years. Then, we tested whether female lizards were able to detect by chemosensory cues the males’ scent marks (i.e. femoral secretions) that were experimentally maintained under current and predicted future temperature conditions.

Results showed that the efficacy (i.e. detectability and persistence) of scent marks is lower at high temperature. Moreover, we showed that scent‐marked substrates maintained under high temperatures were not selected by females, in contrast to the selection of areas scent marked by males, when these substrates were maintained under normal temperatures.

Our study suggests that climate warming could lead to negative changes in the efficacy of sexual signals with potential consequences for the sexual selection and conservation of threatened lizard species.
Estimating animal resource selection from telemetry data using point process models
Authors: Johnson Devin S. , Hooten Mevin B. , Kuhn Carey E.
Published: June 2013

Analyses of animal resource selection functions (RSF) using data collected from relocations of individuals via remote telemetry devices have become commonplace. Increasing technological advances, however, have produced statistical challenges in analysing such highly autocorrelated data. Weighted distribution methods have been proposed for analysing RSFs with telemetry data. However, they can be computationally challenging due to an intractable normalizing constant and cannot be aggregated (i.e. collapsed) over time to make space‐only inference.

In this study, we take a conceptually different approach to modelling animal telemetry data for making RSF inference. We consider the telemetry data to be a realization of a space–time point process. Under the point process paradigm, the times of the relocations are also considered to be random rather than fixed.

We show the point process models we propose are a generalization of the weighted distribution telemetry models. By generalizing the weighted model, we can access several numerical techniques for evaluating point process likelihoods that make use of common statistical software. Thus, the analysis methods can be readily implemented by animal ecologists.

In addition to ease of computation, the point process models can be aggregated over time by marginalizing over the temporal component of the model. This allows a full range of models to be constructed for RSF analysis at the individual movement level up to the study area level.

To demonstrate the analysis of telemetry data with the point process approach, we analysed a data set of telemetry locations from northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) in the Pribilof Islands, Alaska. Both a space–time and an aggregated space‐only model were fitted. At the individual level, the space–time analysis showed little selection relative to the habitat covariates. However, at the study area level, the space‐only model showed strong selection relative to the covariates.
Interactive effects of temporal and spatial fire characteristics on the population dynamics of a fire‐dependentCypress species
Authors: Rodríguez‐Buriticá Susana , Suding Katharine
Published: June 2013

Current predictions about climate change and its impact on fire regimes have spurred research on how increasing fire frequencies will affect the population dynamics of fire‐dependent species. There has been less consideration of changes in the spatial characteristics of fire regimes, despite recognition of the importance of spatial heterogeneity and connectivity in population dynamics.

Here, we test the hypothesis that spatial heterogeneity in fire regimes may not benefit obligate seeders with canopy seed bank, due to regeneration constraints into non‐burned areas. We develop a size‐structured population model for a population ofTecate cypressCallitropsis forbesii(Jeps.) Little, a rare obligate seeder of conservation concern, across a complex landscape in theSantaAnaMountains (Orange,CA,USA). Combining the population model with field measurements of stand structure and fire history, we test the roles of heterogeneity in fire regime and dispersal among patches with differing fire history on population persistence.

The model predicts population persistence at fire return intervals >17 years, the approximate fire return interval at the site over the last century. However, population growth and population persistence increase when subpopulations are connected by dispersal and, within a small window of fire return intervals, when subpopulations have uncorrelated fire dynamics. Contrary to our expectations, spatial heterogeneity in fire regime increased population growth rates at intermediate (15–25 year) fire return intervals.

Synthesis and applications. Conservation efforts focused on isolated populations of fire‐dependent species should focus on both the temporal (fire return interval) and spatial (heterogeneity in fire occurrence) aspects of fire regimes. For one threatenedCypress species, we find that the interaction between temporal and spatial characteristics of a fire regime can increase the risks of population extinction, particularly under fire regimes characterized by more frequent, larger and more spatially homogenous fire. Species with fragmented subpopulations not well connected by dispersal also have a greater risk of extinction under these fire regimes.
Assessing the causes and scales of the leaf economics spectrum using venation networks in Populus tremuloides
Authors: Blonder Benjamin , Violle Cyrille , Enquist Brian J.
Published: June 2013

The leaf economics spectrum (LES) describes global interspecific correlations between leaf traits. Despite recent theoretical advances, the biological scale at which LES correlations emerge and the physiological and climatic causes of these correlations remains partially unknown.

Here, we test an extant theory based on universal trade‐offs in leaf venation networks that predicts that (i) the LES primarily originates within individuals; (ii) minor vein density drives LES trait correlations; and (iii) between individuals, LES correlations reflects variation in minor vein density driven by water availability. To test these predictions, we sample leaves within and between clones of Populus tremuloides across a wide climate gradient.

We show that predictions i) and iii) are supported but ii) is only partially supported. To account for this discrepancy, we develop a more general venation theory. This theory describes linkages between vein density, leaf area and leaf thickness that can modulate LES correlations across scales. This theory helps to identify multiple selective pressures that can drive trait covariation underlying the LES.

Synthesis. Our results broaden the range of biological scales at which the leaf economics spectrum (LES) is found and highlight the complex causal roles of venation networks in LES correlations. This study points to the need to better understand the coupling between venation networks, leaf size and climate to fully understand the LES.
Combined small‐cell lung carcinoma: An institutional experience
Authors: Wallace Audrey S. , Arya Monika , Frazier Shellaine R. , Westgate Steven , Wang Zhenyu , Doll Donald
Published: June 2013

Background

The purpose of this study is to determine prognostic factors and survival in patients who present with combined small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC).

Methods

A retrospective review of combined SCLC histology in patients treated between1995–2010 was undertaken. Demographics, diagnostic information, disease characteristics, treatment modality, and survival were captured. Survival estimates were performed using Kaplan Meier analysis. Statistical significance was defined as P < 0.05.

Results

Forty‐one patients were identified, and 35 records were available for analysis. Median age at diagnosis was 68 (range 50–85). The study included 20 (57%) women and 15 (43%) men; and 94% had a current or former history of smoking. Histology was SCLC/large cell carcinoma not otherwise specified in 28 (80%), and SCLC/adenocarcinoma or SCLC/squamous cell carcinoma in seven (20%). Cardiac or pulmonary comorbidities were present in 80% of patients, and 24 patients had metastatic disease at presentation. Twenty‐eight patients received treatment of chemotherapy (n = 24), cranial radiotherapy (n = 5), or thoracic radiotherapy (n = 7). Staging was as follows: stage I‐III (n = 11), stage IV (n = 24). Median survival was 15.4 months (range <1–53 months) and 3.4 months (range <1–21.9 months) for American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage I‐III and stage IV, respectively. Estimated overall six and 12 month survival was 82%, 55%, 37%, and 17% for stage I‐III and stage IV, respectively. An improved overall survival rate was found for patients with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of <2, and no weight loss (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Akin to SCLC, advanced stage combined SCLC portends a poor prognosis. Perhaps novel chemotherapeutic drugs or targeted agents may improve outcomes for future patient populations.
Lack of epidermal growth factor receptor gene mutations in exons 19 and 21 in primary lymphoepithelioma‐like carcinoma of the lung
Authors: Liu Qianwen , Ma Guowei , Yang Haoxian , Wen Jing , Li Mei , Yang Hong , Luo Kongjia , Hu Yi , Fu Jianhua
Published: June 2013

Background

Primary lymphoepithelioma‐like carcinoma (LELC) of the lung is uncommon in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) targeted therapy has been applied in advanced common NSCLC. Whether EGFR‐targeted therapy is also suitable for LELC of the lung remains unclear. As we know, EGFR gene mutation is a predictive factor. Therefore, EGFR gene mutations in exons 19 and 21 in Chinese patients with LELC of the lung were investigated.

Methods

Clinicopathological information was obtained by a retrospective review of the medical history recorded in the patients' charts. EGFR gene mutations in exons 19 and 21 were analyzed in 32 samples of LELC of the lung by TaqMan real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR).

Results

Eleven (34.4%) of the patients were male and 21 (65.6%) patients female. The mean age at diagnosis was 50.9 years (range, 25–71 years). Seven (21.9%) of the patients were smokers. In situ hybridization for Epstein‐Barr virus‐encoded small RNAs (EBERs) showed positive signals in all 32 patients. None of the tumors had mutations in exons 19 and 21. EGFR‐targeted therapy was used in three patients with advanced disease and one patient with distant recurrence. However, no obvious therapeutic effect was found.

Conclusion

These data showed that LELC of the lung, a special histological type of lung cancer, lacked EGFR gene mutations in exons 19 and 21, which suggested that there was no opportunity for EGFR‐targeted therapy for patients with LELC of the lung.
Maternal Factor V Leiden and Prothrombin Mutations Do Not Seem to Contribute to the Occurrence of Two or More Than Two Consecutive Miscarriages in Caucasian patients
Authors: Baumann Kristin , Beuter‐Winkler Petra , Hackethal Andreas , Strowitzki Thomas , Toth Bettina , Bohlmann Michael K.
Published: June 2013

Background

We analysed the prevalence of the most common hereditary thrombophilia (hTP) – factor V Leiden (FVL) mutation, prothrombin 20210 G>A substitution (PT) – and the 677 C>T replacement in the 5,10‐methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene in Caucasian patients with a history of two and more consecutive recurrent miscarriages (RMs) as compared to healthy controls with an identical ethnic background and at least one live birth.

Methods

A multicenter analysis of three hTP was performed in 641 RM patients identically screened at specialized university centres.

Results

The study groups consisted of 240 patients with 2 (1) and 401 patients with >2 miscarriages (2) and were compared with 157 controls. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of the hTP between RM patients and controls nor within the two study groups. Subgroup analysis showed that the homozygous MTHFR polymorphism was significantly more prevalent in the study group 2 as compared to study group 1 (13.9 versus 7.9%, P = 0.02).

Conclusion

In Caucasians, maternal FVL or PT mutations do not seem to contribute to the pathophysiology of RM, irrespective of the number of miscarriages. However, the role of the homozygous MTHFR polymorphism merits further investigation.
Computer‐controlled stimulation for functional magnetic resonance imaging studies of the neonatal olfactory system
Authors: Arichi T , Gordon‐Williams R , Allievi A , Groves AM , Burdet E , Edwards AD
Published: June 2013

Aim

Olfactory sensation is highly functional early in human neonatal life, with studies suggesting that odours can influence behaviour and infant–mother bonding. Due to its good spatial properties, blood oxygen level–dependent (BOLD) contrast functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has the potential to rapidly advance our understanding of the neural activity which underlies the development of olfactory perception in this key period. We aimed to design an ‘olfactometer’ specifically for use with neonatal subjects for fMRI studies of odour perception.

Methods

We describe a fully automated and programmable, fMRI compatible system capable of presenting odorant liquids. To prevent contamination of the system and minimize between‐subject infective risk, the majority of the olfactometer is constructed from single‐use, readily available clinical equipment. The system was used to present the odour of infant formula milk in a validation group of seven neonatal subjects at term equivalent postmenstrual age (median age 40 weeks).

Results

A safe, reliable and reproducible pattern of stimulation was delivered leading to well‐localized positive BOLD functional responses in the piriform cortex, amygdala, thalamus, insular cortex and cerebellum.

Conclusions

The described system is therefore suitable for detailed studies of the ontology of olfactory sensation and perception during early human brain development.
Use of multiple criteria in an ecological assessment of a prairie restoration chronosequence
Authors: Hansen Michael J. , Gibson David J.
Published: June 2013

Questions

Was ecological fidelity (structure/composition, function and durability) restored in a series of tallgrass prairie restorations? Which factors influenced success? Can success be assessed in prairie restoration using indices of ecological fidelity?

Location

Nachusa Grasslands in Lee and Ogle Counties, Illinois,USA.

Methods

To assess restoration of ecological fidelity, mean coefficient of conservatism (Mean C), floristic quality index (FQI), above‐ground net primary productivity (ANPP), soil bulk density, total soil nitrogen (N) and total soil carbon of 19 restoration sites were recorded from 20 × 50 m modified Whittaker plots across a chronosequence, and compared to benchmark values acquired from both the literature and field observation of remnant prairies. Following assessment, multiple factors were examined through correlation analysis, Akaike's information criterion and multiple regression analysis to determine the relationship of these factors to restoration success.

Results

All restoration sites attained the benchmark value for Mean C, while only four attained the benchmark value forFQI. Mean C andFQIboth decreased across the chronosequence. Frequency of prescribed fire and soil bulk density had significant positive relationships to Mean C.FQIwas best explained by theFQIvalue of the seed mix sown. Thirteen restoration sites attained the benchmark value forANPP, which remained stable across the restoration chronosequence. Abundance of exotic species and soil drainage had a negative relationship toANPP. Few restoration sites attained benchmark values for soil bulk density, total N and total carbon, and none of the sites showed a trajectory towards benchmark values across the chronosequence.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that high‐quality seed mixes may aid in establishing prairie restorations with high scores of floristic quality. However, restoration of vegetation does not guarantee the successful restoration of ecological function. Long‐term monitoring is needed to more effectively assess durability and the multiple factors that influence restoration quality. Overall, the three components of ecological fidelity related to structure/composition, function and durability provide a useful framework to assess restoration success and guide management. Our study can serve as a model for future research and assessment of restoration success.
Overlapping and distinct gray and white matter abnormalities in schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder
Authors: Anderson Dana , Ardekani Babak A , Burdick Katherine E , Robinson Delbert G , John Majnu , Malhotra Anil K , Szeszko Philip R
Published: June 2013

Objectives

Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder may share common neurobiological mechanisms, but few studies have directly compared gray and white matter structure in these disorders. We used diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging and a region of interest based analysis to identify overlapping and distinct gray and white matter abnormalities in 35 patients with schizophrenia and 20 patients with bipolar I disorder in comparison to 56 healthy volunteers.

Methods

We examined fractional anisotropy within the white matter and mean diffusivity within the gray matter in 42 regions of interest defined on a probabilistic atlas following non‐linear registration of the images to atlas space.

Results

Patients with schizophrenia had significantly lower fractional anisotropy in temporal (superior temporal and parahippocampal) and occipital (superior and middle occipital) white matter compared to patients with bipolar disorder and healthy volunteers. By contrast, both patient groups demonstrated significantly higher mean diffusivity in frontal (inferior frontal and lateral orbitofrontal) and temporal (superior temporal and parahippocampal) gray matter compared to healthy volunteers, but did not differ from each other.

Conclusions

Our study implicates overlapping gray matter frontal and temporal lobe structural alterations in the neurobiology of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder, but suggests that temporal and occipital lobe white matter deficits may be an additional risk factor for schizophrenia. Our findings may have relevance for future diagnostic classification systems and the identification of susceptibility genes for these disorders.
Exposure Ethics: Does Hiv Pre‐Exposure Prophylaxis Raise Ethical Problems for the Health Care Provider and Policy Maker?
Authors: Venter Francois , Allais Lucy , Richter Marlise
Published: June 2013

The last few years have seen dramatic progress in the development of HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). These developments have been met by ethical concerns. HIV interventions are often thought to be ethically difficult. In a context which includes disagreements over human rights, controversies over testing policies, and questions about sexual morality and individual responsibility, PrEP has been seen as an ethically complex intervention. We argue that this is mistaken, and that in fact, PrEP does not raise new ethical concerns. Some of the questions posed by PrEP are not specific to HIV prophylaxis, but simply standard public health considerations about resource allocation and striking a balance between individual benefit and public good. We consider sexual disinhibition in the context of private prescriptions, and conclude that only unjustified AIDS‐exceptionalism or inappropriate moralism about sex supports thinking that PrEP raises new ethical problems. This negative conclusion is significant in a context where supposed ethical concerns about PrEP have been raised, and in the context of HIV exceptionalism.
Reasonability and Conscientious Objection in Medicine: A Reply to Marsh and an Elaboration of the Reason‐Giving Requirement
Authors: Card Robert F.
Published: June 2013

In this paper I defend the Reasonability View: the position that medical professionals seeking a conscientious exemption must state reasons in support of their objection and allow those reasons to be subject to evaluation. Recently, this view has been criticized by Jason Marsh as proposing a standard that is either too difficult to meet or too easy to satisfy. First, I defend the Reasonability View from this proposed dilemma. Then, I develop this view by presenting and explaining some of the central criteria it uses to assess whether a conscientious objection is proper grounds for extending an exemption to a medical practitioner.
IBS: Transformation of Our Governance
Authors: Basford Kaye E.
Published: June 2013

In my Presidential Address at the 2010 International Biometric Conference in Florianopolis, I outlined the revised governance structure for the International Biometric Society (IBS). That structure was subsequently modified, with the final version being approved by the society membership in June 2012. The membership also approved the merger of the constitution with the bylaws, effectively dissolving the constitution (as it was no longer consistent with practice). From January 1, 2013, responsibility for the governance and leadership of the IBS rests with a 15‐member Executive Board which will be supported by a larger Representative Council whose members are selected by and from each of the society's regions. The Representative Council is responsible for overseeing the determination of the Executive Board, providing advice on strategic and policy issues, and contributing to the operation of the IBS. This Council will be an effective conduit between the regions and the Executive Board, aided by the Chair attending all Board meetings.
Social defeat andPTSDsymptoms following trauma
Authors: Troop Nicholas A. , Hiskey Syd
Published: June 2013

Objectives

Research indicates that constructs relevant to social rank predict a diagnosis of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including mental defeat, alienation, and shame. However, no studies have yet explored a social rank view explicitly.

Design

This was a community‐based study carried out online. Analyses were both cross‐sectional and longitudinal over 6 months.

Methods

Participants were recruited online for a cross‐sectional study (Study 1,n = 194) and a 6‐month longitudinal study (Study 2,n = 81). Measures included self‐report measures ofPTSDsymptoms (the Post‐Traumatic Diagnostic Scale) and social rank (including measures of unfavourable social comparison, social defeat, and internal/external entrapment).

Results

Cross‐sectional analysis showed that social defeat, but not other aspects of social rank, was independently predictive of a diagnosis ofPTSD. Longitudinal analysis showed that greater social defeat at baseline predicted less improvement inPTSDsymptoms, whereas greater reduction in social defeat over the 6‐month follow‐up predicted greater improvement inPTSDsymptoms.

Conclusions

In addition to the implications for understanding the role of social (rather than individual mental) defeat in the aetiology ofPTSD, interventions could usefully incorporate methods that either increase social status or else minimize the impact of low status (e.g., through the use of compassion‐focused approaches).

Practitioner points

Clinical implications

Post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) status is related to social defeat independently of demographic characteristics and features of the trauma.

Reduction in PTSD symptoms over 6 months is predicted by reduction in social defeat.

The evidence supports the use of interventions that increase self‐perceived status or minimize the impact of low status (such as compassion‐focused approaches).

Cautions or limitations

Participants were recruited online and may not be representative of clinical samples.

Measures, including diagnostic tools, were self‐report rather than interview‐ or observation based.

With only two time points in the longitudinal study, direction of causality cannot be determined.
Does experience in creating a robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) programme in an academic centre impact outcomes or complication rate?
Authors: Krane L. Spencer , Manny Theodore B. , Mufarrij Patrick W. , Hemal Ashok K.
Published: June 2013

Objective

To evaluate the impact of increased experience in robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) on perioperative and oncological outcomes

To detail the complications encountered in establishing a RAPN programme at a tertiary referral centre and the factors associated with these complications

Patients and Methods

The initial consecutive 233 patients undergoing RAPN between March 2008 and May 2012 at our institution were identified.

Patients were divided into quartiles to evaluate outcomes, and uni‐ and multivariate predictors of complications were calculated

Results

In progressive quartiles, patients tended to have more complex renal tumours as evaluated by R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry (P < 0.01) or preoperative aspects and dimensions used for an anatomical classification (PADUA) scores (P = 0.003), and percentage endophytic (P = 0.01).

Developing technique increased the patients undergoing unclamped PN (P < 0.01).

The mean time in the operating room (from skin incision to closure) decreased significantly from 225 to 183 min (P < 0.01) and warm ischaemia time decreased from 28 to 15 min, when clamping (P < 0.01).

Clavien graded complication rate (P = 0.26) and positive margin rate (P = 0.32) was unchanged by quartile.

Conclusion

We show that increasing experience allows more complex tumours to be removed with similar outcomes in patients undergoing RAPN.

The complication rates and perioperative outcomes were similar in four successive quartiles of an initial experience of RAPN.
Cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 are associated with bladder dysfunction in an experimental diabetic rat model
Authors: Li Yan , Sun Yan , Zhang Zhaocun , Feng Xiaodi , Meng Hui , Li Shun , Zhu Yaofeng , Chen Shouzhen , Wang Yang , Wang Jun , Zhang Deqing , Jiang Xuewen , Li Ning , Shi Benkang
Published: June 2013

Objective

To investigate diabetes‐associated changes in urinary bladder expression of cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2) and the functional role of CB agonists and antagonists in mediating phasic contractions of isolated bladder strips using a streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rat model.

Materials and Methods

The bladder and dorsal root ganglion (DRG) were removed from diabetic rats and age‐matched controls 8–10 weeks after diabetes induction.

Expression of CB1 and CB2 mRNA was studied using quantitative real‐time PCR and protein levels were determined by Western blot analysis.

The effect of increasing concentrations (0.1–100 μM) of the mixed CB1/CB2 agonist R(+)‐WIN 55,212–2 (WIN), selective CB1 antagonist (AM251) and selective CB2 antagonist (AM630) on carbachol‐evoked contraction of bladder strips from control and diabetic rats was investigated.

WIN‐induced alterations of bladder strip contraction were then studied after pre‐incubation with AM251 and AM630.

Results

Diabetes induced decreased CB1 protein and mRNA expression in both the bladder and DRG (P < 0.05), while decreased CB2 expression was observed in the bladder (P < 0.05).

WIN decreased the amplitude, but not frequency, of carbachol‐induced phasic contractions of bladder strips in a concentration‐dependent manner and this effect was diminished in the diabetic state.

AM630 and AM251 had no effect on isolated detrusor muscle function. Moreover, pre‐incubation with AM251 partially counteracted the effect of WIN on detrusor muscle contraction.

Conclusion

The results indicate that CB1 and CB2 are responsible for the pathogenesis of bladder dysfunction in diabetes mellitus and represent a viable target for pharmacological treatment of bladder cystopathy.
Impact of immediate loading on early soft tissue healing at two‐piece implants placed in fresh extraction sockets: an experimental study in the beagle dog
Authors: Mareque S. , Liñares A. , Pérez J. , Muñoz F. , Ramos I. , Blanco J.
Published: June 2013

Objectives

To study early soft tissue healing of immediately placed implants with or without immediate loading in the dog.

Material and methods

Forty‐eight implants were placed in the distal sockets of Pm3 and Pm4 in the lower jaw of 12 beagle dogs immediately after tooth extraction. In the control group, no loading was applied. In the test group, an immediate loading restoration with occlusal contacts was performed. Dogs were sacrificed at 2, 4, and 8 weeks for histological analysis.

Results

At the end of the study, there was a 100% implant and prosthesis survival. The biological width dimension was similar in both groups at all the studied healing periods. This dimension tended to decrease from week 2 to 8 in both groups, on both the buccal and lingual side. The barrier epithelium tended to stop at the implant–abutment interface in both groups and also decreased in length from week 2 to 8, on the buccal and the lingual side. Soft tissue recession remained low and occurred mainly in the test group.

Conclusions

The characteristics, dimension, and healing pattern of the peri‐implant soft tissues were similar around immediate implants with or without immediate loading.
Foreign Direct Investors as Change Agents: The Swedish Firm Experience
Authors: Fogel Kathy S. , Lee Kevin K. , Lee Wayne Y. , Palmberg Johanna
Published: June 2013

Manuscript Type

Empirical

Research Question

Prior studies examine corporate governance either at the firm level, with limited attention paid to societal culture and norms, or at the nation‐state level, with limited attention paid to the management practices of firms. In this study we examine the impact on the corporate governance of Swedish firms brought about by foreign investors. We argue that in countries like Sweden with strong culturally embedded norms and control exercised by dominant domestic shareholders, control‐seeking foreign investors can act as agents of change to improve firm performance through more efficient capital utilization and labor productivity.

Research Findings

We find that the entry of foreign equity investors over the years 1992–2008 surrounding Sweden's formal admission to the European Union in 1995 enhanced the financial performance of large publicly traded, domestic owner‐controlled firms in Sweden. The heightened performance of Swedish firms was not simply a result of cross‐border portfolio investments by institutions as the literature on shareholder activism implies. Rather, significant advancements in firm performance occurred only when an increase in voting participation by foreign direct investors was coincident with a decrease in the excess voting power of the largest domestic shareholder, which gave foreign equity investors a critical “voice” in the management of the firm.

Theoretical Implications

Informal institutions influence corporate governance by aligning corporate goals with socially acceptable outcomes. Corporate governance practices, if culturally embedded, cannot be easily displaced even when the gains in economic efficiency are large. Corporate owners stand to benefit from the maintenance of the status quo and may not welcome radical changes that can lead to a “creative destruction” of their market power and political dominance. Foreign portfolio investors who focus solely on cash flow rights of the firm cannot effectively change decision making in the boardroom. Foreign direct investors, who actively seek voting shares and control rights, will have the utmost potential to effect change in corporate governance by advocating for new corporate priorities and objectives at board meetings.
Novel psychoactive drug use among younger adults involved in US nightlife scenes
Authors: Kelly Brian C. , Wells Brooke E. , Pawson Mark , Leclair Amy , Parsons Jeffrey T. , Golub Sarit A.
Published: June 2013

Introduction and Aims

The emergence of novel psychoactive substances has been reported in clinical studies and recent studies of users. The use of these substances in European nightlife scenes is well documented. Little research has been done to identify the prevalence of these drugs among young adults active in other regions. We focus our sample on socially active young adults to gain an indication of the prevalence and understanding of demographic factors associated with past year mephedrone (‘meph’, ‘bath salts’) and synthetic cannabinoid (‘spice’, ‘K2’) use.

Design and Methods

This study reports on the results of a field‐based survey of 1740 patrons at nightlife venues in New York City.

Results

Within the sample, 8.2% reported use of synthetic cannabinoids and 1.1% reported the use of mephedrone. Gay and bisexual men reported higher prevalence of mephedrone use. Latinos reported higher prevalence of synthetic cannabinoid use. Multivariate analyses indicate that sexual minority identity is associated with mephedrone use and younger age and Latino ethnicity are associated with synthetic cannabinoid use.

Discussion and Conclusion

The findings suggest that the use of synthetic cannabinoids and mephedrone among adults in US nightlife scenes remains relatively low in comparison with European nightlife scenes, and is low relative to other drug use among young people within these scenes. [Kelly BC, Wells BE, Pawson M, LeClair A, Parsons JT, Golub SA. Novel psychoactive drug use among younger adults involved in US nightlife scenes. Drug Alcohol Rev 2013;32:588–593]
Integrating biodiversity and drinking water protection goals through geographic analysis
Authors: Wickham James D. , Flather Curtis H.
Published: June 2013

Aim

Biodiversity and drinking water share a common interest in land conservation. Our objective was to identify where that common interest occurs geographically to inform conservation planning.

Location

The study focused on 2112 eight‐digit hydrologic units (watersheds) occurring in the conterminous United States.

Methods

Data on aquatic‐dependent species occurrence, drinking water intakes, protected land status and land cover change were compiled for each watershed. We compared these four datasets after defining ‘hotspots’ based on attribute‐specific thresholds that included (1) the 90th percentile of at‐risk aquatic biodiversity, (2) with and without drinking water intakes, (3) above and below the median percentage of protected land and (4) increase in urban land above and below a 1% threshold between 2001 and 2006. Geographic intersections were used to address a number of questions relevant to conservation planning including the following: What watersheds important to aquatic biodiversity are also important to drinking water? Which watersheds with a shared stake in biodiversity and drinking water protection have inadequate land protection? Which watersheds with potentially inadequate amounts of protected lands are also undergoing relatively rapid urbanization?

Results

Over 60% of the watersheds that were determined to be aquatic biodiversity hotspots also had drinking water intakes, and approximately 50% of these watersheds had less than the United States median amount of protected land. A total of seven watersheds were found to have shared aquatic biodiversity/drinking water values, relatively low proportions of protected lands and a relatively high rate of urbanization. The majority of these watershed occurred in the south‐eastern United States, with secondary occurrences in California.

Main conclusions

Geographic analysis of multiple ecosystem services can identify areas of shared land conservation interest. Locations where ecosystem commodities and species conservation overlap has the potential to increase stakeholder buy‐in and leverage scarce resources to conserve land that, in this case study, protects both biodiversity and drinking water.
Higher education is an age‐independent predictor of white matter integrity and cognitive control in late adolescence
Authors: Noble Kimberly G. , Korgaonkar Mayuresh S. , Grieve Stuart M. , Brickman Adam M.
Published: June 2013

Socioeconomic status is an important predictor of cognitive development and academic achievement. Late adolescence provides a unique opportunity to study how the attainment of socioeconomic status (in the form of years of education) relates to cognitive and neural development, during a time when age‐related cognitive and neural development is ongoing. During late adolescence it is possible to disambiguate age‐ and education‐related effects on the development of these processes. Here we assessed the degree to which higher educational attainment was related to performance on a cognitive control task, controlling for age. We then used diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to assess the degree to which white matter microstructure might mediate this relationship. When covarying age, significant associations were found between educational attainment and fractional anisotropy (FA) in the superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF) and cingulum bundle (CB). Further, when covarying age, FA in these regions was associated with cognitive control. Finally, mediation analyses revealed that the age‐independent association between educational attainment and cognitive control was completely accounted for by FA in these regions. The uncinate fasciculus, a late‐myelinated control region not implicated in cognitive control, did not mediate this effect.
Three‐Dimensional Echocardiographic Assessment of Patent Foramen Ovale in Platypnea‐Orthodeoxia
Authors: Rostamian Armand , Rathod Ankit , Makkar Rajendra R. , Siegel Robert J.
Published: June 2013

Platypnea‐orthodeoxia is an uncommon syndrome characterized by positional dyspnea and hypoxia when upright that improves with lying down. We present a 75‐year‐old man with platypnea‐orthodeoxia in the setting of a patent foramen ovale (PFO) and a 2.1 cm highly mobile atrial septal aneurysm with 2 cm bowing. Prior reports have established the use of three‐dimensional echocardiography to facilitate percutaneous closure of PFO and atrial septal defect, but its use in patients with platypnea‐orthodeoxia is unclear. We document three‐dimensional echocardiographic images that accurately estimated PFO defect size and confirmed placement of the occluder device.
N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide level determined at different times identifies transient ischaemic attack patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Purroy F. , Suárez‐Luis I. , Mauri‐Capdevila G. , Cambray S. , Farré J. , Sanahuja J. , Piñol‐Ripoll G. , Quílez A. , González‐Mingot C. , Begué R. , Gil M. I. , Fernández E. , Benabdelhak I.
Published: June 2013

Background and purpose

The etiological classification of patients with transient ischaemic attack (TIA) is a difficult endeavor and the use of serum biomarkers could improve the diagnostic accuracy. The aim of this study was to correlate atrial fibrillation, the main cardioembolic etiology (CE), with different serum biomarkers measured in consecutive TIA patients.

Methods

The concentrations of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), tumor necrosis factor‐alpha, neuron‐specific enolase, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, IL‐1‐α and the N‐terminal pro‐B type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) were quantified in the serum of 140 patients with TIA and 44 non‐stroke subjects. Measurements were performed at different times throughout evolution: within 24 h of symptoms onset and at days 7 and 90.

Results

With the exception of IL‐6, all biomarkers were higher in TIA patients than in controls. NT‐proBNP was significantly related to the presence or new diagnosis of AF at all time points analyzed. Furthermore, the baseline NT‐proBNP level was significantly higher than values at the 7‐day and 90‐day follow‐up. For this reason, different cut‐off values were obtained at different times: 313 pg/ml at baseline [odds ratio (OR) = 18.99, P < 0.001], 181 pg/ml at 7 days (OR = 11.4, P = 0.001) and 174 pg/ml (OR = 8.46, P < 0.001) at 90 days.

Conclusion

High levels of NT‐proBNP determined during the first 3 months after a TIA were associated with AF. Consequently, this biomarker may be useful to reclassify undetermined TIA patients as having disease of CE.
New Urbanism as Sustainable Development?
Authors: Trudeau Dan
Published: June 2013

New urbanism is an urban design movement to create pedestrian‐oriented settlements that also advance social equity and mitigate the environmental impacts of development. Proponents of the movement have suggested it offers a model of sustainable development. This paper investigates this claim by discussing the implications of empirical research on new urbanism for the ways in which the movement contributes to sustainability. The paper uses the concepts of environmental and social sustainability to frame the discussion. The paper traces the origin of new urbanism and the evolution of its interest in sustainable development. Review of scholarly research on new urbanism in practice shows the movement supports in limited ways both environmental and social sustainability. Moreover, this research also shows that some forms of new urbanism development unintentionally counteract environmental sustainability goals while other forms fail to achieve social sustainability goals. Citing the diverse ways in which new urbanism is put into practice, the paper concludes by considering how understanding the heterogeneity of new urbanism as it exists in the world will impart greater clarity to further analysis of the ways in which the movement actually contributes to sustainable development.
Securitising shared waters: an analysis of the hydropolitical context of the Tanakpur Barrage project between Nepal and India
Authors: Mirumachi Naho
Published: June 2013

This paper examines the ways in which environmental threats are socially constructed and the implications of such environmental securitisation. Specifically, the paper focuses on the issue of river development and water allocation between states of international transboundary river basins. Building on recent studies that attempt to refine securitisation theory of the Copenhagen School and applying hydropolitical power analysis, the paper takes a sociological understanding of the securitisation of shared waters. Using the case study of the Tanakpur Barrage project on the Mahakali River between Nepal and India in the Ganges River basin, it shows how securitisation discourse framed the shared river as a threat that posed detrimental flooding to both territories. It is argued that the Indian government effectively used its technical and institutional expertise to frame the discourse. Hydropolitical power analysis helps explain how compliance to the project agreement – a necessary measure to avert hydrological crisis, as argued by the Indian government – was gained from the Nepali government. The implications of securitising shared rivers on water resources management and basin‐wide governance are discussed.