bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Alphasatellite Molecule Associated with Ageratum yellow vein China virus in the Philippines
Authors: She Xiaoman , He Zifu , Yin Guohua , Du Zhenguo , Tang Yangfei , Lan Guobin
Published: March 2014

From Synedrella nodiflora plants with leaf curling, vein swelling and enation symptoms on Samal Island, the Philippines, a begomoviral DNA‐A and its associated alphasatellite molecule were cloned and sequenced. The begomovirus was identified as an isolate of Ageratum yellow vein China virus (AYVCNV) with 91% nucleotide sequence identity to AYVCNV‐[P157] (EU487045), while the alphasatellite molecule was most closely related to tobacco curly shoot alphasatellite‐Y99 (TbCSA‐Y99, AJ579347) with 74.5% nucleotide sequence identity. The satellite molecule has the typical features of alphasatellites, with a single gene in the virion sense, an A‐rich region and a 33‐bp predicted stem‐loop structure. According to the proposed species demarcation threshold of alphasatellites (83% nucleotide sequence identity), the alphasatellite molecule represents a new species, herein named ‘Ageratum yellow vein China alphasatellite’ (KF785752).
A New Virulent Isolate of Clover Yellow Vein Virus on Phaseolus vulgaris in Bulgaria
Authors: Pasev Gancho , Kostova Dimitrina , Turina Massimo
Published: March 2014

Potyviruses are a common threat for snap bean production in Bulgaria. During virus surveys of bean plots in the south central region, we identified an isolate of Clover yellow vein virus (ClYVV), designated ClYVV 11B, by indirect ELISA and RT‐PCR causing severe mosaic symptoms and systemic necrosis. Indirect and direct ELISA using ClYVV antisera differentiated the ClYVV isolate from Bean yellow mosaic virus (BYMV), but serological analysis could not distinguish the Bulgarian isolate ClYVV 11B from an Italian ClYVV isolate used as a reference (ClYVV 505/7). RT‐PCR analyses with specific primers revealed that both isolates were ClYVV. Sequence analysis of an 800 bp fragment corresponding to the coat protein coding region showed 94% identity at the nucleotide level between the two isolates. Phylogenetic analyses of aligned nucleotide sequences available in the database confirmed the existence of two groups of isolates, but ClYVV 11B and ClYVV505/7 belonged to the same group. We compared the virulence of both isolates on a set of differential cultivars and 19 bean breeding lines resistant to Bean common mosaic virus (BCMV) and Bean common mosaic necrosis virus (BCMNV): Bulgarian isolate ClYVV 11B was able to infect systemically all tested bean differential cultivars and breeding lines including those with genotypes Ibc3 and Ibc22; Italian isolate ClYVV 505/7 was not able to infect systemically some differentials with genotypes bc‐ubc1, bc‐ubc22, bc‐ubc2bc3, Ibc12, Ibc22, Ibc3. The role of bc3 gene as a source of resistance to potyviruses is discussed.
Melatonin regulates mesenchymal stem cell differentiation: a review
Authors: Luchetti Francesca , Canonico Barbara , Bartolini Desirée , Arcangeletti Marcella , Ciffolilli Silvia , Murdolo Giuseppe , Piroddi Marta , Papa Stefano , Reiter Russel J. , Galli Francesco
Published: March 2014

Among the numerous functions of melatonin, the control of survival and differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been recently proposed. MSCs are a heterogeneous population of multipotent elements resident in tissues such as bone marrow, muscle, and adipose tissue, which are primarily involved in developmental and regeneration processes, gaining thus increasing interest for tissue repair and restoration therapeutic protocols. Receptor‐dependent and receptor‐independent responses to melatonin are suggested to occur in these cells. These involve antioxidant or redox‐dependent functions of this indolamine as well as secondary effects resulting from autocrine and paracrine responses. Inflammatory cytokines and adipokines, proangiogenic/mitogenic stimuli, and other mediators that influence the differentiation processes may affect the survival and functional integrity of these mesenchymal precursor cells. In this scenario, melatonin seems to regulate signaling pathways that drive commitment and differentiation of MSC into osteogenic, chondrogenic, adipogenic, or myogenic lineages. Common pathways suggested to be involved as master regulators of these processes are the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway, the MAPKs and the, TGF‐β signaling. In this respect melatonin emerges a novel and potential modulator of MSC lineage commitment and adipogenic differentiation. These and other aspects of the physiological and pharmacological effects of melatonin as regulator of MSC are discussed in this review.
Melatonin as a potential therapy for sepsis: a phase I dose escalation study and an ex vivo whole blood model under conditions of sepsis
Authors: Galley Helen F. , Lowes Damon A. , Allen Lee , Cameron Gary , Aucott Lorna S. , Webster Nigel R.
Published: March 2014

Sepsis is a massive inflammatory response mediated by infection, characterized by oxidative stress, release of cytokines, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Melatonin accumulates in mitochondria, and both it and its metabolites have potent antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities and may be useful in sepsis. We undertook a phase I dose escalation study in healthy volunteers to assess the tolerability and pharmacokinetics of 20, 30, 50, and 100 mg oral doses of melatonin. In addition, we developed an ex vivo whole blood model under conditions mimicking sepsis to determine the bioactivity of melatonin and the major metabolite 6‐hydroxymelatonin at relevant concentrations. For the phase I trial, oral melatonin was given to five subjects in each dose cohort (n = 20). Blood and urine were collected for measurement of melatonin and 6‐hydroxymelatonin, and symptoms and physiological measures were assessed. Validated sleep scales were completed. No adverse effects after oral melatonin, other than mild transient drowsiness with no effects on sleeping patterns, were seen, and no symptoms were reported. Melatonin was rapidly cleared at all doses with a median [range] elimination half‐life of 51.7 [29.5–63.2] min across all doses. There was considerable variability in maximum melatonin levels within each dose cohort, but 6‐hydoxymelatonin sulfate levels were less variable and remained stable for several hours. For the ex vivo study, blood from 20 volunteers was treated with lipopolysaccharide and peptidoglycan plus a range of concentrations of melatonin/6‐hydroxymelatonin. Both melatonin and 6‐hydroxymelatonin had beneficial effects on sepsis‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and cytokine responses at concentrations similar to those achieved in vivo.
Narcolepsy with cataplexy and comorbid immunopathological diseases
Authors: Martínez‐Orozco Francisco J. , Vicario José L. , Villalibre‐Valderrey Isabel , De Andrés Clara , Fernández‐Arquero Miguel , Peraita‐Adrados Rosa
Published: March 2014

Evidence suggests that autoimmune diseases tend to co‐occur so that patients with an autoimmune disorder are at higher risk of a second autoimmune disease. The association between allergic and autoimmune diseases is also of considerable interest. There are no reports on the association between sporadic or familial narcolepsy with cataplexy and other non‐neurological immune‐mediated diseases. This study reported on the comorbid immunopathological diseases associated with narcolepsy. One‐hundred and fifty six narcoleptic patients with a mean age at diagnosis of 39.1 ± 17.8 years (range, 6–70 years) were assessed using the clinical history, physical and neurological examinations, sleep questionnaires, neuroimaging and human leucocyte antigen typing. Diagnosis was confirmed by polysomnography followed by a multiple sleep latency test or by measuring hypocretin‐1 levels. Patients with immunopathological diseases were matched for gender and age at the onset of narcoleptic symptoms with narcoleptic patients without immunopathological diseases. Twenty‐six patients (16.6%; 50% women; one familial, 25 sporadic) had one or more immunopathological diseases associated: autoimmune diseases, such as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, autoimmune thyroid disease, Peyronie's disease and idiopathic recurrent facial palsy; other immunopathological diseases, like atopic dermatitis, allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis. Although not significant, the age at diagnosis of narcolepsy was 9.3 years earlier in patients with narcolepsy + immunopathological diseases. The results demonstrate that the prevalence of comorbid immunopathological diseases is high in narcolepsy, and cataplexy is significantly more severe in patients with narcolepsy + immunopathological diseases.
Differential pharmacokinetics and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic modelling of robenacoxib and ketoprofen in a feline model of inflammation
Authors: Pelligand L. , King J. N. , Hormazabal V. , Toutain P. L. , Elliott J. , Lees P.
Published: March 2014

Robenacoxib and ketoprofen are acidic nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Both are licensed for once daily administration in the cat, despite having short blood half‐lives. This study reports the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) modelling of each drug in a feline model of inflammation. Eight cats were enrolled in a randomized, controlled, three‐period cross‐over study. In each period, sterile inflammation was induced by the injection of carrageenan into a subcutaneously implanted tissue cage, immediately before the subcutaneous injection of robenacoxib (2 mg/kg), ketoprofen (2 mg/kg) or placebo. Blood samples were taken for the determination of drug and serum thromboxane (Tx)B2 concentrations (measuring COX‐1 activity). Tissue cage exudate samples were obtained for drug and prostaglandin (PG)E2 concentrations (measuring COX‐2 activity). Individual animal pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters for COX‐1 and COX‐2 inhibition were generated by PK/PD modelling. S(+) ketoprofen clearance scaled by bioavailability (CL/F) was 0.114 L/kg/h (elimination half‐life = 1.62 h). For robenacoxib, blood CL/F was 0.684 L/kg/h (elimination half‐life = 1.13 h). Exudate elimination half‐lives were 25.9 and 41.5 h for S(+) ketoprofen and robenacoxib, respectively. Both drugs reduced exudate PGE2 concentration significantly between 6 and 36 h. Ketoprofen significantly suppressed (>97%) serum TxB2 between 4 min and 24 h, whereas suppression was mild and transient with robenacoxib. In vivoIC50COX‐1/IC50COX‐2 ratios were 66.9:1 for robenacoxib and 1:107 for S(+) ketoprofen. The carboxylic acid nature of both drugs may contribute to the prolonged COX‐2 inhibition in exudate, despite short half‐lives in blood.
Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease: the role of nuclear receptors and circadian rhythmicity
Authors: Mazzoccoli Gianluigi , Vinciguerra Manlio , Oben Jude , Tarquini Roberto , De Cosmo Salvatore
Published: March 2014

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the accumulation of triglycerides in the hepatocytes in the absence of excess alcohol intake, and is caused by an imbalance between hepatic synthesis and breakdown of fats, as well as fatty acid storage and disposal. Liver metabolic pathways are driven by circadian biological clocks, and hepatic health is maintained by proper timing of circadian patterns of metabolic gene expression with the alternation of anabolic processes corresponding to feeding/activity during wake times, and catabolic processes characterizing fasting/resting during sleep. A number of nuclear receptors in the liver are expressed rhythmically, bind hormones and metabolites, sense energy flux and expenditure, and connect the metabolic pathways to the molecular clockwork throughout the 24‐h day. In this review, we describe the role played by the nuclear receptors in the genesis of NAFLD in relationship with the circadian clock circuitry.
Barriers to HCV treatment in the era of triple therapy: a prospective multi‐centred study in clinical practice
Authors: Crespo Javier , Cabezas Joaquín , Sacristán Begoña , Olcoz José L. , Pérez Ramón , De la Vega Juan , García Rosa , García‐Pajares Félix , Sáez‐Royuela Federico , González José M. , Jiménez Felipe , Rodríguez Santiago , Cuadrado Antonio , López‐Arias María J. , García Isidro , Milla Ana , García‐Riesco Emilia , Muñoz María , Sánchez‐Antolín Gloria , Jorquera Francisco
Published: March 2014

Background & Aims

(i) To describe the demographic, clinical, virological and histological characteristics of the patients undergoing evaluation for indication of triple therapy against hepatitis C virus genotype 1, and to identify the reasons why candidate patients are excluded; and (ii) to evaluate the characteristics of the healthcare environment related to treatment.

Methods

Observational, prospective and multi‐centred study involving 16 hospitals of Spain. Data were collected on 1122 patients receiving attention in the outpatient clinics between June and December 2012.

Results

Of the 1122 patients evaluated, 769 were finally included in this study; 27% (211/769) had contraindications to the therapy. Of those without contraindications, 54% (301/558) did not receive the treatment, and so, only about a third of the patients (33%–257/769) underwent therapy. The reasons for not initiating therapy were as follows: patient refusal (30%), mild disease/awaiting new treatments (34%), restrictions by the health service (30%), other reasons (6%). In univariate analyses, the probability of receiving treatment was related to: age <60 years, male gender, high education level, advanced fibrosis, having had previous treatment, being assessed in a centre of excellence. In multivariate analyses, the factors independently related to the probability of receiving treatment were as follows: high education level of the patients (P = 0.004), advanced fibrosis (P < 0.001) and centres of excellence (P = 0.009).

Conclusion

Despite the high efficacy of triple therapy, only a small proportion of patients receive the treatment. The causes related to non‐treatment depend on patient factors, disease stage and characteristics of the health‐service provision.
Demonstratives, Frames of Reference, and Semantic Universals of Space
Authors: Diessel Holger
Published: March 2014

There is a large body of research indicating that speakers of (familiar) European languages tend to encode and conceptualize space from an egocentric perspective, but linguistic fieldworkers have shown that speakers of certain other languages (e.g. Tzeltal) often describe the same spatial scenes based on fixed coordinates of the environment. This has led some researcher to challenge long‐standing assumptions about semantic universals of space and the uniformity of spatial cognition. Specifically, Levinson and colleagues have questioned the hypothesis that there is a universal preference for egocentric, body‐oriented representations of space in language and cognition. It is the purpose of the present paper to reconsider this hypothesis in light of an important class of spatial terms that has been disregarded in this research: demonstratives such as Englishthisandthatandhereandthere. The paper shows that the semantic interpretation of demonstratives presupposes a coordinate system with the same conceptual constituents as body‐based expressions such asleftandrightorupanddown. Combining evidence from linguistic typology with psychological research on joint attention, it is argued that demonstratives constitute a universal class of spatial terms that invoke an egocentric, body‐anchored frame of reference grounded in basic principles of spatial and social cognition.
Climate rather than geography separates two European honeybee subspecies
Authors: Coroian Cristian O. , Muñoz Irene , Schlüns Ellen A. , Paniti‐Teleky Orsolya R. , Erler Silvio , Furdui Emilia M. , Mărghitaş Liviu A. , Dezmirean Daniel S. , Schlüns Helge , de la Rúa Pilar , Moritz Robin F. A.
Published: March 2014

Both climatic and geographical factors play an important role for the biogeographical distribution of species. The Carpathian mountain ridge has been suggested as a natural geographical divide between the two honeybee subspecies Apis mellifera carnica and A. m. macedonica. We sampled one worker from one colony each at 138 traditional apiaries located across the Carpathians spanning from the Hungarian plains to the Danube delta. All samples were sequenced at the mitochondrial tRNALeu‐cox2 intergenic region and genotyped at twelve microsatellite loci. The Carpathians had only limited impact on the biogeography because both subspecies were abundant on either side of the mountain ridge. In contrast, subspecies differentiation strongly correlated with the various temperature zones in Romania. A. m. carnica is more abundant in regions with the mean average temperature below 9 °C, whereas A. m. macedonica honeybees are more frequent in regions with mean temperatures above 9 °C. This range selection may have impact on the future biogeography in the light of anticipated global climatic changes.
Iterative Method for Exponential Damping Identification
Authors: Pan Yuhua , Wang Yuanfeng
Published: March 2014

Exponential damping is a new potential damping model for dynamic analysis of systems. This article outlines a complex mode procedure for identifying the exponential damping model and discusses its applicability and limitations. A new iterative method for relaxation factor is proposed, without using the full set of modal data, which is simple, direct, and compatible with conventional modal testing procedures. Combined with the frequency response functions (FRFs)‐based model updating method, the finite element model with such nonviscous damping is updated. The proposed method and several related issues are illustrated by numerical examples. It is shown that the finite element model updated method for the systems with exponential damping can predict accurately not only the natural frequencies but also the FRFs of the systems.
Increasing home dialysis knowledge through a web‐based e‐learning program
Authors: Bennett Paul N , Jaeschke Sadie , Sinclair Peter M , Kerr Peter G , Holt Steve , Schoch Monica , Fortnum Debbie , Ockerby Cherene , Kent Bridie
Published: March 2014

Aim

There has been a global decline in the uptake of home‐based dialysis therapies in the past 20 years. The ability to provide appropriate information to potential patients in this area may be confounded by a lack of knowledge of home dialysis options. The aim of this study was to develop a web‐based education package for health professionals to increase knowledge and positive perceptions of home‐based dialysis options.

Methods

A three‐module e‐learning package concerning home dialysis was developed under the auspices of the home dialysis first project. These modules were tested on 88 undergraduate health professionals. Changes in attitudes and knowledge of home dialysis were measured using custom designed surveys administered electronically to students who completed the modules. Matched pre and post responses to the survey items were compared using Wilcoxon signed rank tests.

Results

The pre survey indicated clear deficits in existing knowledge of home dialysis options. In particular, when asked if haemodialysis could be performed at home, 22% of participants responded ‘definitely no’ and a further 24% responded ‘probably no’. Upon completion of the e‐learning, post survey responses indicated statistically significant improvements (P < 0.001) in eight of the nine items. When asked if the e‐learning had increased their knowledge about home dialysis, 99% of participants responded ‘definitely yes’.

Conclusion

A suite of web‐based education modules can successfully deliver significant improvements in awareness and knowledge around home dialysis therapies.
Effects of Internet‐based instruction on HIV‐prevention knowledge and practices among men who have sex with men
Authors: Kasatpibal Nongyao , Viseskul Nongkran , Srikantha Wimonsiri , Fongkaew Warunee , Surapagdee Natthakarn , Grimes Richard M.
Published: March 2014

HIV infection is increasing among men who have sex with men. In this study, the effects of Internet‐based instruction on HIV‐prevention knowledge were evaluated. The sample consisted of 162 men‐who‐have‐sex‐with‐men volunteers in Thailand. The research instruments included a demographic data questionnaire, a knowledge test, and an HIV preventive practice questionnaire. The participants completed these instruments upon entry to the study and four months later. After entry to the study, the participants were given access to a previously‐developed Internet‐based instruction on HIV risk behaviors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t‐test. After accessing the Internet‐based instruction, the average score of HIV‐prevention knowledge among the sample increased significantly, from 11.17 to 15.09 (maximum score of 20 points). The average score of practicing HIV prevention among the sample increased significantly, from 62.94 to 76.51 (maximum score of 99 points). This study demonstrated that Internet‐based instruction was effective in improving HIV‐prevention knowledge and practices among men who have sex with men. This suggests that Internet‐based instruction could be developed for use in other countries and evaluated in a similar way.
Making out and making do: how employees resist and make organisational change work through consent in a UK bank
Authors: McCabe Darren
Published: March 2014

This article draws on fieldwork conducted in the back‐office of a major retail UK bank and explores how, when introducing change, management drew on contradictory normative and rational discourses. Its primary concern is to explore how, in this context, employees engaged in contradictory acts that combined elements of both resistance (‘making out’) and consent (‘making do’) that are difficult to disentangle. It is argued that although both are moves within the game, they can be distinguished from each other because the former works against the grain of corporate intentions, whereas the latter works with them.
Monetary policies and oil price determination: an empirical analysis
Authors: Taghizadeh Hesary Farhad , Yoshino Naoyuki
Published: March 2014

While the oil price shocks of 1970s can be explained by pure supply factors, starting in the 1980s oil prices increasingly began to come under a different type of pressure. Oil prices accelerated from about $35/barrel in 1981 to beyond $111/barrel in 2011. At the same time interest rates subsided from 16.7 per cent per annum to about 0.1. This paper explains how this long‐term price increase was, in most cases, caused by expansionary monetary policies that heightened oil prices through interest rate channels. Aggressive monetary policies stimulated oil demand and blew up oil prices, a trend that led to slower economic growth. As for elasticities, the results described in this paper show that oil demand price elasticity is low value and unlike some earlier literature states, supply price elasticity is statistically significant. In last section, the results show that oil prices adjust instantly, declaring the existence of equilibrium in the oil market during the period from 1960 to 2011.
On the role of the trend and cyclical components in electricity consumption and India's economic growth: a cointegration and cofeature approach
Authors: Ahmad Wasim , Nain Md Zulquar , Kamaiah Bandi
Published: March 2014

In this paper, the relationship between electricity consumption (LEC) and economic growth (LGDP) using Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model and Granger causality within error correction framework in India over the period 1970–1971 to 2009–2010 are analysed. The results of these tests exhibit the existence of long‐run equilibrium relationship and bilateral causality in case of India. Then, Hodrick–Prescott filter is used to decompose the data into trend and cyclical (fluctuation) components of electricity consumption and economic growth. The results of decomposed series revealed that both series are cointegrated with the strong evidence of bidirectional causality, implying that trend and cyclical components are strongly correlated with business cycles in India. From these findings, we conclude that the feedback hypothesis is applicable in case of India. Therefore, government should undertake necessary policy measures to augment the investment in power sector from existing level and more importantly the emphasis should also be given on the efficient use of electricity.
Quantitative trait loci mapping of seed colour, hairy leaf, seedling anthocyanin, leaf chlorosis and days to flowering in F2 population of Brassica rapa L.
Authors: Rahman Mukhlesur , Mamidi Sujan , McClean Phillip
Published: March 2014

A diversity arrays technology (DArT) map was constructed to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) affecting seed colour, hairy leaf, seedling anthocyanin, leaf chlorosis and days to flowering in Brassica rapa using a F2 population from a cross between two parents with contrasting traits. Two genes with dominant epistatic interaction were responsible for seed colour. One major dominant gene controls the hairy leaf trait. Seedling anthocyanin was controlled by a major single dominant gene. The parents did not exhibit leaf chlorosis; however, 32% F2 plants showed leaf chlorosis in the population. A distorted segregation was observed for days to flowering in the F2 population. A linkage map was constructed with 376 DArT markers distributed over 12 linkage groups covering 579.7 cM. The DArT markers were assigned on different chromosomes of B. rapa using B. rapa genome sequences and DArT consensus map of B. napus. Two QTL (RSC1‐2 and RSC12‐56) located on chromosome A8 and chromosome A9 were identified for seed colour, which explained 19.4% and 18.2% of the phenotypic variation, respectively. The seed colour marker located in the ortholog to Arabidopsis thaliana Transparent Testa2 (AtTT2). Two QTL RLH6‐0 and RLH9‐16 were identified for hairy leaf, which explained 31.6% and 20.7% phenotypic variation, respectively. A single QTL (RSAn‐12‐157) on chromosome A7, which explained 12.8% of phenotypic variation was detected for seedling anthocyanin. The seedling anthocyanin marker is found within the A. thaliana Transparent Testa12 (AtTT12) ortholog. A QTL (RLC6‐04) for leaf chlorosis was identified, which explained 55.3% of phenotypic variation. QTL for hairy leaf and leaf chlorosis were located 0–4 cM apart on the same chromosome A1. A single QTL (RDF‐10‐0) for days to flowering was identified, which explained 21.4% phenotypic variation.
Hypoalbuminemia and poor growth predict worse outcomes in pediatric heart transplant recipients
Authors: Castleberry Chesney , White‐Williams Connie , Naftel David , Tresler Margaret A. , Pruitt Elizabeth , Miyamoto Shelley D. , Murphy Debbie , Spicer Robert , Bannister Louise , Schowengerdt Kenneth , Gilmore Lisa , Kaufman Beth , Zangwill Steven
Published: March 2014

Children with end‐stage cardiac failure are at risk of HA and PG. The effects of these factors on post‐transplant outcome are not well defined. Using the PHTS database, albumin and growth data from pediatric heart transplant patients from 12/1999 to 12/2009 were analyzed for effect on mortality. Covariables were examined to determine whether HA and PG were risk factors for mortality at listing and transplant. HA patients had higher waitlist mortality (15.81% vs. 10.59%, p = 0.015) with an OR of 1.59 (95% CI 1.09–2.30). Survival was worse for patients with HA at listing and transplant (p ≤ 0.01 and p = 0.026). Infants and patients with congenital heart disease did worse if they were HA at time of transplant (p = 0.020 and p = 0.028). Growth was poor while waiting with PG as risk factor for mortality in multivariate analysis (p = 0.008). HA and PG are risk factors for mortality. Survival was worse in infants and patients with congenital heart disease. PG was a risk factor for mortality in multivariate analysis. These results suggest that an opportunity may exist to improve outcomes for these patients by employing strategies to mitigate these risk factors.
The infection process of Moniliophthora perniciosa in cacao
Authors: Sena K. , Alemanno L. , Gramacho K. P.
Published: March 2014

The development of the basidiomycete Moniliophthora perniciosa in resistant and susceptible Theobroma cacao genotypes was analysed. The infection process leading to broom formation in shoot apexes was characterized by studying the kinetics of basidiospore germination, mode of penetration and colonization of the pathogen. Both resistant and susceptible cacao genotypes were inoculated with M. perniciosa and kept in the greenhouse for 90 days, explants were collected, treated for histological studies and meristematic tissues were observed by electron and light microscopy. Variation in the kinetics of germination between the cacao genotypes was detected 4 h after inoculation. The fungal penetration occurred through the star‐shaped trichome base, natural openings on the cuticular surface and stomata. Host responses between genotypes were found to be different. Compared with non‐infected plants, the swelling of all the stem tissues was evident at 60 days after inoculation. In the susceptible genotype, typical symptoms developed and fungal colonization was more intense than in resistant genotypes, which showed little or no fungal colonization. The investigations reported herein provide an important step in understanding the pattern of pre‐ and post‐penetration events of M. perniciosa in cacao genotypes with different levels of resistance to this disease.
Size‐spectrum based differential response of phytoplankton to nutrient and iron‐organic matter combinations in microcosm experiments in a Chilean Patagonian Fjord
Authors: Iriarte Jose L. , Ardelan Murat V. , Cuevas Luis Antonio , González Humberto E. , Sanchez Nicolas , Myklestad Sverne M.
Published: March 2014

The Patagonian fjords have been recognized as a major region of relatively high primary productivity systems during spring–summer bloom periods, where iron‐organic matter forms may be essential complexes involved in key growth processes connected to the carbon and nitrogen cycles. We used two dissolved organic matter (DOM) types, marine polysaccharide and siderophore, as a model to understand how they affect the bioavailability of Fe to phytoplankton and bacteria and to assess their ecological role in fjord systems. A 10‐day microcosm study was performed in the Comau Fjord during summer conditions (March 2012). Pico‐, nano‐, and microphytoplankton abundance, total chlorophyll‐a and bacteria abundance, and bacterial secondary production estimates were analyzed in five treatments: (i) control (no additions), (ii) only nutrients (NUT: PO4, NO3, Si), (iii) nutrients + Fe(II), (iv) polysaccharide (natural diatoms extracted: 1–3 beta Glucan), and (v) Hexandentate Desferroxiamine B (DFB, siderophore). Our results showed that while DFB reduced Fe bioavailability for almost all phytoplankton assemblages in the fjord, polysaccharide did not have effects on the iron bioavailability. At Nutrients + Fe and Polysaccharide treatments, chlorophyll‐a concentration abruptly increased from 0.9 to 20 mg m−3 during the first 4–6 days of the experimental period. Remarkably, at the Nutrients + Fe treatment, the development of the bloom was accompanied by markedly high abundances of Synechococcus, picoeukaryotes, and autotrophic nanoflagellates within the first 4 days of the experiment. Our study indicated that small plankton (phytoplankton <20 μm and bacteria) were the first to respond to dissolved Nutrients + Fe compared to large sized micro‐phytoplankton cells (>20 μm). This could be at least partially attributed to biological utilization of Fe (2 to 3 nM) by <20 μm phytoplankton and bacteria through the interaction with organic ligands released by bacteria that eventually could increase solubility of the Fe dissolved fraction thus having a positive effect on the small‐sized phytoplankton community.
Decreased response monitoring in individuals with symptoms of trichotillomania
Authors: Roberts Kathryn , Stanley Emily M. , Franklin Martin E. , Simons Robert F.
Published: March 2014

Trichotillomania (TTM) was long classified as an impulse‐control disorder; however, the many characteristics it shares with obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) led to its recategorization in the DSM‐V. The present study aimed to assess and inform the taxonomic placement of TTM through an examination of its neural correlates. While research has consistently associated OCD with enhanced response monitoring, the present study investigated whether a similar neural process is associated with TTM. Undergraduates reporting TTM symptoms and controls performed a modified version of the flanker task, and their event‐related potentials were examined for between‐group differences in error‐related negativity (ERN). Results confirm that individuals who have symptoms of hair pulling have significantly smaller ERNs than the control group. Smaller ERNs reflect decreased levels of response monitoring and support the idea that TTM is distinct from OCD.
Modeling Phytosanitary Risk of Unintended Commodity Use: The Example of U.S. Potato Exports to Mexico
Authors: Fowler Glenn , Erikson Lottie , Caton Barney , Gutierrez Walter , Griffin Robert
Published: March 2014

Diversion of commodities from their intended use to an unintended use, e.g., when commodities intended for consumption are used as seed for planting, is an important issue in agricultural trade that has implications for the establishment of pests and pathogens in an importing country and for the appropriate strength of plant health measures. Consequently, understanding and accurately characterizing the risk of diversion from intended use is highly relevant to policymakers, trading partners, and in trade dispute arbitration. To our knowledge, no risk assessments have ever accounted for the likelihood of diversion from intended use. Here we present an approach to analyzing this risk using diversion of U.S. table stock potatoes to seed for planting by Mexican potato producers as a case study. We use probabilistic pathway models to characterize the movement of white, yellow, and russet potatoes from the United States into Mexico at current and double export volumes. We then model the likelihood of these potatoes being diverted for seed and the subsequent establishment of bacteria, nematode, and virus pests in Mexico. Our approach demonstrates how diversion from intended use can be quantified in one scenario and, in particular, how it can be analyzed to estimate the magnitude of diversion required to produce a high risk of pest establishment.
Bayesian Unconditional Quantile Regression: An Analysis of Recent Expansions in Wage Structure and Earnings Inequality in the US 1992–2009
Authors: Lubrano Michel , Ndoye Abdoul Aziz Junior
Published: March 2014

We develop Bayesian inference for an unconditional quantile regression model. Our approach provides better estimates in the upper tail of the wage distribution as well as valid small sample confidence intervals for the Oaxaca–Blinder decomposition. We analyze the recent changes in the US wage structure using data from the CPS Outgoing Rotation Group from 1992 to 2009. We find that the largest part of the recent changes is explained mainly by differences in returns to education while the decline in the unionization rate has a small impact, and that earnings inequality is rising more at the top end of the wage distribution.
No effect of dietary nitrate supplementation on endurance training in hypoxia
Authors: Puype J. , Ramaekers M. , Van Thienen R. , Deldicque L. , Hespel P.
Published: March 2014

We investigated whether dietary nitrate (NO3−) supplementation enhances the effect of training in hypoxia on endurance performance at sea level. Twenty‐two healthy male volunteers performed high‐intensity endurance training on a cycle ergometer (6 weeks, 5×30 min/week at 4–6 mmol/L blood lactate) in normobaric hypoxia (12.5% FiO2), while ingesting either beetroot juice [0.07 mmol NO3−/kg body weight (bw)/day; BR, n = 11] or a control drink (CON, n = 11). During the pretest and the posttest, the subjects performed a 30‐min simulated time trial (TT) and an incremental VO2max test. Furthermore, a biopsy was taken from m. vastus lateralis before and after the TT. Power output during the training sessions in both groups increased by ∼6% from week 1 to week 6 (P < 0.05). Compared with the pretest, VO2max in the posttest was increased (P < 0.05) in CON (5%) and BR (9%). Power output corresponding with the 4 mmol/L blood lactate threshold, as well as mean power output during TT increased by ∼16% in both groups (P < 0.05). Muscle phospho‐AMP‐activated protein kinase, hypoxia inducible factor‐1α mRNA content, and glycogen breakdown during the TT were similar between the groups in both the pretest and the posttest. In conclusion, low‐dose dietary NO3− supplementation does not enhance the effects of intermittent hypoxic training on endurance exercise performance at sea level.
The effect of hydration on the risk of friction blister formation on the heel of the foot
Authors: Kirkham Suzanne , Lam Sharon , Nester Christopher , Hashmi Farina
Published: March 2014

Background

Friction blister research has focused on prevention and treatment approaches rather than exploring the pathophysiology of the friction blister. Increased skin hydration has been purported to be a key risk factor in friction blister development. This study aimed to test the effect of increased skin surface hydration on the risk of friction blister creation.

Methods

The skin on one foot was hydrated by soaking the foot in water. Intermittent loading was carried out until an observable change of 3°C was evident using infrared thermography. The contra lateral foot acted as a control. Skin hydration and elasticity was measured using electrical capacitance and negative pressure respectively.

Results

The rate of temperature change of the hydrated group was significantly greater than that of the non‐hydrated foot group (P = 0.001) and showed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.520) with skin surface hydration. Weak negative correlations were seen between skin elasticity and rate of temperature change in response to load application (r = −0.166) and skin surface hydration and elasticity at baseline (r = −0.195).

Conclusion

In controlled experimental conditions increased skin surface hydration increases the rate of temperature change of the skin in response to load application and consequently increases the risk of blister creation.
Ja doch wohlC? Modal Particles in German as C‐related elements
Authors: Struckmeier Volker
Published: March 2014

The article argues that Modal Particles (MPs) in German constitutelow, intrasentential, C‐related elements: rather than being adverbs,MPs constitute a class of emergent functional heads that spell out sentence type features. This categorisation explains many of the hitherto miraculous properties ofMPs. Alternative analyses assume thatMPs are adverbs, and line up in the specifier positions of a functional cascade that constitutes a clause in ‘cartographic’ approaches to syntactic modelling. These analyses fail to describe the properties ofMPs and adverbs in German, I claim. The emergence ofMPs follows a general trend in the development of German to express grammatical properties periphrastically.
The ParticlePoIn The Varieties Of Dolomitic Ladin – Grammaticalisation From A Temporal Adverb Into An Interrogative Marker
Authors: Hack Franziska Maria
Published: March 2014

The particlepois used in many varieties of the Northern Italian area, but these varieties differ regarding use and function of the particle. Focusing on the varieties of Dolomitic Ladin I show thatpohas undergone a grammaticalisation process, evolving from a temporal adverb via various stages such as that of a focus particle into an (obligatory) question marker. The synchronic diatopic variation with respect to use and function ofpomirrors the diachronic development of the particle. The second part of the paper addresses the syntax of the particle. The variation in Dolomitic Ladin interrogatives provides evidence for a split‐CPanalysis à la Rizzi (,) and Poletto (,). I also propose an implementation of the variation found in Dolomitic Ladin interrogatives within Roberts & Rousssou's (,) formal approach to cross‐linguistic variation showing that the Dolomitic Ladin facts corroborate an approach to grammaticalisation in terms of a change from themoveto themergeoption for the realisation of functional features.
Integrating a Raster Geographical Information System with Multi‐Objective Land Allocation Optimization for Conservation Reserve Design
Authors: Dai WeiWei , Ratick Samuel J.
Published: March 2014

The multi‐objective land allocation problem is to optimize the selection of land for different uses based on a set of decision objectives. For most applications, a geographical information system (GIS) is either absent or loosely coupled through file exchange. In this article the evolutionary algorithm (EA), a heuristic solution method for optimization problems, is integrated with a rasterGISto form a spatial decision support system (SDSS) for multi‐objective conservation reserve design. TheSDSSeffectively combines the functions of aGISfor data management, analysis, and visualization, with the optimization capability of theEA; and provides a uniform way to solve conservation reserve design problems with different types of constraints and objectives. TheSDSSis demonstrated through application to the creation of conservation reserves inBolivia to protect 17 endemic mammals.
Experiential Limitation in Judgment and Decision
Authors: Hahn Ulrike
Published: March 2014

The statistics of small samples are often quite different from those of large samples, and this needs to be taken into account in assessing the rationality of human behavior. Specifically, in evaluating human responses to environmental statistics, it is the effective environment that matters; that is, the environment actually experienced by the agent needs to be considered, not simply long‐run frequencies. Significant deviations from long‐run statistics may arise through experiential limitations of the agent that stem from resource constraints and/or information‐processing bounds. The article draws together recent work from a number of areas in judgment and decision making ranging from randomness perception (Hahn & Warren, ), information sampling (Hertwig & Pleskac, ; Kareev et al., ), and consequences of choice for exploration or exploitation (e.g., Denrell, ) to demonstrate how proper consideration of these deviations leads to reevaluation of behaviors that are otherwise deemed irrational.
Optimality and Some of Its Discontents: Successes and Shortcomings of Existing Models for Binary Decisions
Authors: Holmes Philip , Cohen Jonathan D.
Published: March 2014

We review how leaky competing accumulators (LCAs) can be used to model decision making in two‐alternative, forced‐choice tasks, and we show how they reduce to drift diffusion (DD) processes in special cases. As continuum limits of the sequential probability ratio test, DD processes are optimal in producing decisions of specified accuracy in the shortest possible time. Furthermore, the DD model can be used to derive a speed–accuracy trade‐off that optimizes reward rate for a restricted class of two alternative forced‐choice decision tasks. We review findings that compare human performance with this benchmark, and we reveal both approximations to and deviations from optimality. We then discuss three potential sources of deviations from optimality at the psychological level—avoidance of errors, poor time estimation, and minimization of the cost of control—and review recent theoretical and empirical findings that address these possibilities. We also discuss the role of cognitive control in changing environments and in modulating exploitation and exploration. Finally, we consider physiological factors in which nonlinear dynamics may also contribute to deviations from optimality.
Computational Rationality: Linking Mechanism and Behavior Through Bounded Utility Maximization
Authors: Lewis Richard L. , Howes Andrew , Singh Satinder
Published: March 2014

We propose a framework for including information‐processing bounds in rational analyses. It is an application of bounded optimality (Russell & Subramanian, 1995) to the challenges of developing theories of mechanism and behavior. The framework is based on the idea that behaviors are generated by cognitive mechanisms that are adapted to the structure of not only the environment but also the mind and brain itself. We call the framework computational rationality to emphasize the incorporation of computational mechanism into the definition of rational action. Theories are specified as optimal program problems, defined by an adaptation environment, a bounded machine, and a utility function. Such theories yield different classes of explanation, depending on the extent to which they emphasize adaptation to bounds, and adaptation to some ecology that differs from the immediate local environment. We illustrate this variation with examples from three domains: visual attention in a linguistic task, manual response ordering, and reasoning. We explore the relation of this framework to existing “levels” approaches to explanation, and to other optimality‐based modeling approaches.
Mapping genres and geopolitics: the case of Israel
Authors: Schnell Izhak , Leuenberger Christine
Published: March 2014

Maps have long been used as tools to dispossess the colonised, establish sovereign control over territories and help engineer states. They not only serve as national logos that encourage commitment to a nation, but cartographic representations also inform scientific and engineering knowledge and practices that are crucial for state‐building. With the rise of neoliberalism and the increasing dissemination of open‐source mapping software since the 1980s, however, more and more governmental and non‐governmental organisations and interest groups are designing maps and disseminating geopolitical visions. Controversies over the territorial contours of Israel among Israeli governmental and non‐governmental organisations exemplify how maps can become discursive repertories in political debates over the contours of national territory in a neoliberal mapping environment. Their cartographic claims‐making reveal cartographic mapping genres that are commonly used by map designers who work in politically contentious regions, in which cartography has become a widespread tool to make politics. This paper draws on various conceptual traditions, ranging from the sociology of knowledge, the sociology of religion, sociolinguistics, visual studies and critical cartography in order to identify recurring genres of maps that are used in territorial and geopolitical controversies. The types of maps produced embody different levels of institutional and scientific authority; they possess different substances and designs, and they fulfil varied functions. Given the ever more varied and increasingly user‐defined mapping environment in neoliberal economies, it is important to understand generic map‐types and their use of visual rhetoric in order to persuade a public of certain geopolitical visions.
The Dynamic Linkages Among Exports, R&D and Productivity
Authors: Máñez Juan A. , Rochina‐Barrachina Maria E. , Sanchis‐Llopis Juan A.
Published: March 2014

This paper estimates a dynamic model of a firm's decision to export and invest in R&D, in which we allow past export and R&D experience to endogenously affect productivity. In our empirical strategy, we proceed in two steps: in the first step, using as starting point the traditional control approach method to estimate total factor productivity, we consider a more general process driving the law of motion of productivity in which we recognise the potential role that export and R&D experience might have in shaping future firms' productivity, and test whether this assumption holds; in the second step, we estimate a bivariate dynamic model of the firm's decision to invest in R&D and export, in which we analyse the linkages among investing in R&D, exporting and productivity. Using a representative sample of Spanish manufacturing firms for the period 1990–2009, we find that both export and R&D positively affect future productivity, which will drive more firms to self‐select in those activities.