bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application ofDNAbarcoding for identification of freshwater carnivorous fish diets: Is number of prey items dependent on size class forMicropterus salmoides?
Authors: Jo Hyunbin , Gim Jeong‐An , Jeong Kwang‐Seuk , Kim Heui‐Soo , Joo Gea‐Jae
Published: December 2013

Understanding predator–prey interactions is a major challenge in ecological studies. In particular, the accurate identification of prey is a fundamental requirement in elucidating food‐web structure. This study took a molecular approach in determining the species identity of consumed prey items of a freshwater carnivorous fish (largemouth bass,Micropterus salmoides), according to their size class. Thirty randomly selected gut samples were categorized into three size classes, based on the total length of the bass. Using the universal primer for the mtDNAcytochrome oxidase I (COI) region, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification was performed on unidentified gut contents and then sequenced after cloning. Two gut samples were completely empty, andDNAmaterials from 27 of 28 gut samples were successfully amplified byPCR(success rate: 96.4%). Sequence database navigation yielded a total of 308 clones, containingDNAfrom 26 prey items. They comprised four phyla, including seven classes, 12 orders, and 12 families based onBLASTandBOLDdatabase searches. The results indicate that largemouth bass show selective preferences in prey item consumption as they mature. These results corroborate a hypothesis, presence of ontogenetic diet shift, derived through other methodological approaches. Despite the practical limitations inherent inDNAbarcoding analysis, high‐resolution (i.e., species level) identification was possible, and the predation patterns of predators of different sizes were identifiable. The utilization of this method is strongly recommended for determining specific predator–prey relationships in complex freshwater ecosystems.
Estimate of flood inundation and retention on wetlands using remote sensing and GIS
Authors: Chen Yun , Wang Bing , Pollino Carmel A. , Cuddy Susan M. , Merrin Linda E. , Huang Chang
Published: December 2013

Flood inundation and retention are key hydrological characteristics of floodplain wetlands. This study developed a methodology for regional estimates of potential floodwater retention under floodplain inundation from ecologically significant flood return periods by coupling remote sensing and geographic information system technologies with spatial hydrological modelling. The Macquarie Marshes in Australia were selected as the case study area. Time series of Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer 8‐day composite imagery were related to peak flows (Ml day−1) of the 1‐in‐10 return period. Inundation extent in corresponding images was detected using the modified normalised difference water index (mNDWI). The potential maximum soil water retention was derived using a spatial hydrological modelling approach, which is driven by the Soil Conservation Service Curve Number (SCS CN) method. Soil and land cover data were collected and intersected to determine spatial distribution of CN using ArcGIS. The CN‐based retention capacity map was then integrated with an inundation extent map to delineate the spatial pattern of retention under inundation. The results have ecological implications in relation to the response of broad eco‐types in wetlands. This study has proved that the integration of remote sensing, geographic information system and spatial hydrologic modelling can be used to provide essential information as inputs to the management of environmental flows in terms of sustaining ecosystem function, biodiversity and habitat suitability. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A test of equilibrium theory and a demonstration of its practical application for predicting the morphodynamics of the Yangtze River
Authors: Huang He Qing , Deng Caiyun , Nanson Gerald C. , Fan Beilin , Liu Xiaofang , Liu Tonghuan , Ma Yuanxu
Published: December 2013

Taking the width/depth ratio of a river channel as an independent variable, a variational analysis of basic flow relationships shows that alluvial‐channel flow adjusts channel geometry to achieve stationary equilibrium when the condition of maximum flow efficiency (MFE) is satisfied. As a test of the veracity of MFE and to examine if this theory of self‐adjusting channel morphodynamics can be practically applied to large river systems, this study examines the degree of correspondence between theoretically determined equilibrium channel geometries and actual measurements along the middle and lower Yangtze River. Using four different forms of the Meyer‐Peter and Müller bedload relation and relations of flow continuity and resistance we show that the Meyer‐Peter and Müller bedload relation modified on the basis of MFE theory predicts channel dimensions most accurately when applied to the middle and lower Yangtze River. This provides convincing evidence supporting MFE equilibrium theory. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using a thermal tracer to estimate overland and rill flow velocities
Authors: de Lima João L. M. P. , Abrantes João R. C. B.
Published: December 2013

Flow velocity is a basic hydraulic property of surface flows and its precise calculation is necessary for process based hydrological models, such as soil erosion and rill development models, as well as for modelling sediment and solute transport by runoff. This study presents a technique based on infrared thermography to visualize very shallow flows and allow a quantitative measurement of overland flow and rill flow velocities. Laboratory experiments were conducted to compare the traditional dye tracer technique with this new thermal tracer technique by injecting a combined tracer (heated dye) into shallow flowing surface water. The leading edge tracer velocities estimated by means of infrared video and by the usual real imaging video were compared. The results show that thermal tracers can be used to estimate both overland and rill flow velocities, since measurements are similar to those resulting from using dye tracers. The main advantage of using thermography was the higher visibility of the leading edge of the injected tracer compared with the real image videos. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tumor classification for early oral cancer: Re‐evaluate the current TNM classification
Authors: (Hubert) Low Tsu‐Hui , Gao Kan , Elliott Michael , Clark Jonathan R
Published: December 2013

Background

We hypothesized that incorporation of tumor thickness into the tumor–node–metastasis (TNM) system will provide better prognostic information. Tumors were reclassified as T1 if ≤5‐mm thick/≤4‐cm diameter, and T2 if >5‐mm thick/≤4‐cm diameter.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted of 322 patients with T1 and T2 oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) between 1987 and 2012. Univariable survival analysis was performed using the log‐rank test and multivariable analysis using the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

Multivariable analysis confirmed that tumor thickness is the most important predictor of disease‐specific survival (DSS; hazard ratio [HR], 2.7; p = .03) and overall survival (OS; HR, 2.9; p = .001). Using the current TNM classification system, there is no significant difference in survival between the T1 and T2 groups for DSS (p = .13) or OS (p = .66). The revised staging system was superior at stratifying patients according to the T classification for both DSS (p = .016) and OS (p < .001).

Conclusion

Tumor thickness is an important prognostic indicator in early oral SCC and should be incorporated in the TNM classification system. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 223‐228, 2015
Multicentric human papillomavirus–associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Caley Andrew , Evans Mererid , Powell Ned , Paleri Vinidh , Tomkinson Alun , Urbano Teresa Guerrero , Jay Amrita , Robinson Max , Thavaraj Selvam
Published: December 2013

Background

The purpose of this study was to present the clinicopathological features of a series of patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)‐associated head and neck second primary tumors.

Methods

Patients with HPV‐associated head and neck second primary tumors from 3 centers were identified. HPV infection was evaluated using p16 by immunohistochemistry (IHC), high‐risk HPV DNA by in situ hybridization (ISH), and HPV genotyping by DNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) enzyme immunoassay (EIA).

Results

Eleven patients were identified: 5 with synchronous and 6 with metachronous HPV‐positive second primary tumors, the latter demonstrating a mean time interval of 5 years. There were 13 second primary tumors: 11 oropharyngeal, 1 nasopharyngeal, and 1 floor of the mouth. Nine of 10 genotyped patients harbored HPV‐16, and 1 patient had HPV‐33 in 3 synchronous tumors.

Conclusion

HPV‐associated second primary tumors may present as synchronous and/or metachronous lesions and can arise outside the oropharynx after prolonged intervals. Further work is necessary to identify patients at risk and to elucidate the mechanisms of HPV‐associated head and neck second primary tumors. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 202‐208, 2015
SUMOylated αNAC Potentiates Transcriptional Repression by FIAT
Authors: Hekmatnejad Bahareh , Akhouayri Omar , Jafarov Toghrul , St‐Arnaud René
Published: December 2013

The transcriptional coregulator αNAC (Nascent polypeptide associated complex And Coregulator alpha) and the transcriptional repressor FIAT (Factor Inhibiting ATF4‐mediated Transcription) interact but the biological relevance of this interaction remains unclear. The activity of αNAC is extensively modulated by post‐translational modifications (PTMs). We identified a novel αNAC PTM through covalent attachment of the Small Ubiquitin‐like MOdifier (SUMO1). Recombinant αNAC was a SUMO1 target in in vitro SUMOylation assays and we confirmed that αNAC is conjugated to SUMO1 in cultured osteoblasts and in calvarial tissue. The amino acid sequence of αNAC contains one copy of the composite “phospho‐sumoyl switch” motif that couples sequential phosphorylation and SUMOylation. We found that αNAC is selectively SUMOylated at lysine residue 127 within the motif and that SUMOylation is enhanced when a phosphomimetic mutation is introduced at the nearby serine residue 132. SUMOylation did not alter the DNA‐binding capacity of αNAC. The S132D, hyper‐SUMOylated αNAC mutant specifically interacted with histone deacetylase‐2 (HDAC2) and enhanced the inhibitory activity of FIAT on ATF4‐mediated transcription from the Osteocalcin gene promoter. This effect required binding of SUMOylated αNAC to the target promoter. We propose that maximal transcriptional repression by FIAT requires its interaction with SUMOylated, HDAC2‐interacting αNAC. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 866–873, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genistein Modulates Proliferation and Mitochondrial Functionality in Breast Cancer Cells Depending on ERalpha/ERbeta Ratio
Authors: Pons Daniel Gabriel , Nadal‐Serrano Mercedes , Blanquer‐Rossello M. Mar , Sastre‐Serra Jorge , Oliver Jordi , Roca Pilar
Published: December 2013

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women of developed countries. The aim of this study was to investigate whether genistein, a soy phytoestrogen, and 17β‐estradiol (E2) could have effects on the cell cycle and mitochondrial function and dynamics. Three human breast cancer cell lines with different estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) ratio were used: MCF‐7 (high ERα/ERβ ratio), T47D (low ERα/ERβ ratio) and MDA‐MB‐231 (ER‐negative). Cell proliferation, cell cycle, mitochondrial functionality, and mitochondrial dynamics parameters were analyzed. E2 and genistein treatment induced cell proliferation and apoptosis inhibition in MCF‐7, but not in T47D and MDA‐MB‐231. Moreover, genistein treatment produced an up‐regulation of ERβ and a rise in cytochrome c oxidase activity in T47D cells, decreasing the ATP synthase/cytochrome c oxidase ratio. Finally, genistein treatment produced a drop in mitochondrial dynamics only in MCF‐7 cells. In summary, the beneficial effects of genistein consumption depend on the ERα/ERβ ratio in breast cells. Therefore, genistein treatment produces cell cycle arrest and an improvement of mitochondrial functionality in T47D cells with a low ERα/ERβ ratio, but not in MCF‐7 (high ERα/ERβ ratio) and MDA‐MB‐231 (ER‐negative) ones. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 949–958, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conserved regulation of hoxc11 by pitx1 in Anolis lizards
Authors: Park Sungdae , Infante Carlos R. , Rivera‐Davila Laura C. , Menke Douglas B.
Published: December 2013

Anolis lizards are an emerging model system for the study of limb development and evolution, but very little is known concerning the regulatory interactions that control limb patterning differences among Anolis species or what regulatory interactions are deeply conserved between Anolis and other tetrapod groups. Here we report the establishment of an embryonic limb micromass culture system that enables functional studies of forelimb and hindlimb gene regulatory networks in Anolis. Characterization of this culture system demonstrated that embryonic forelimb and hindlimb micromasses from different Anolis species are easy to sustain in culture for weeks, and the expression of forelimb and hindlimb‐specific gene expression patterns are maintained for at least 8 days in culture. We tested the ability of this system to explore regulatory linkages between transcription factors and their putative target genes through the ectopic expression of a hindlimb‐specific transcription factor, pitx1, in forelimb micromasses. We found that pitx1 expression in forelimb cells is sufficient to strongly induce the expression of hoxc11, a gene that normally exhibits hindlimb‐restricted expression. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 322B: 156–165, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Imitation and Creativity: Beneficial Effects of Propulsion Strategies and Specificity
Authors: Mecca Jensen T. , Mumford Michael D.
Published: December 2013

Prior studies examining imitation of exemplar solutions have produced a mixed pattern of findings with some studies indicating that exemplar imitation contributes to creative problem‐solving and other studies indicating that it may inhibit creative problem‐solving. In the present effort, it is argued that the effects of exemplar imitation on creative problem‐solving depend on the strategies people use when working with exemplars. In the present study, people were asked to provide advertising campaigns in response to a marketing problem. Prior to starting work on this problem, manipulations were made in exemplar content. Imitation strategies used in problem‐solving, for example, forward incrementation, and redefinition, were assessed. It was found that imitation strategies were strongly related to the production of higher quality, more original, and more elegant advertising campaigns. Moreover, use of these strategies was facilitated when more specific information was presented in exemplar solutions. The implications of these findings for understanding the role of imitation in creative problem‐solving are discussed.
Precipitation and Erosivity in Southern Portugal: Seasonal Variability and Trends (1950–2008)
Authors: Nunes Adélia N. , Lourenço Luciano , Vieira António , Bento‐Gonçalves António
Published: December 2013

Southern Portugal experiences the lowest amounts of annual precipitation and the highest level of susceptibility to soil erosion, drought events and desertification phenomena in mainland Portugal. The first goal of this paper was to analyse spatial variability and trends in annual precipitation and erosivity in southern mainland Portugal for the period 1950/1951–2007/2008. The second objective was to evaluate seasonality in relation to precipitation distribution, erosivity and concentration over the same period and to evaluate and detect possible changes in the time trend for precipitation erosivity. In order to achieve these objectives, the annual and seasonal precipitation figures, corresponding to data from 90 rain gauges, were analysed and the Modified Fournier Index and Precipitation Concentration Index calculated for each station. The results obtained revealed distinct behaviour patterns for yearly precipitation, erosivity and concentration trends. Decreases in annual precipitation and erosivity figures accompanied by increases in precipitation concentration were found. Nevertheless, no generalised significant trends have been detected for these variables. In seasonal terms, there was a general trend towards an increase in amount, concentration and precipitation erosivity in autumn and summer, and a significantly reducing in winter. The increase in precipitation erosivity, particularly in the autumn, the most water‐erosive season, suggests a rising in potential soil erosion risk in southern Portugal. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Selection of Tree Species and Soil Management for Simultaneous Fuelwood Production and Soil Rehabilitation in the Ethiopian Central Highlands
Authors: Tesfaye Mehari A. , Bravo‐Oviedo Andrés , Bravo Felipe , Kidane Berhane , Bekele Kassahun , Sertse Demissew
Published: December 2013

In the Ethiopian Central Highlands, a serious soil degradation occurs while fuelwood demand is high. This study consists of an evaluation of seven tree species for fuelwood and soil restoration under three soil management options: control, manure and manure + mulch, in degraded highlands of Ethiopia. The experimental design was a split‐plot, species as the main plot and treatment as subplot, with three replicates. Survival count, height and root collar diameter growth measurements were measured annually until 48 months. Biomass production for fuelwood was inferred at the end of the experiment. Before and after the experiment, soil parameters (pH, organic carbon, N, P, K and cation exchange capacity) were measured to test changes in soil condition because of species plantation. A mixed model and repeated analysis of variance was performed. Grevillea robusta A. Cunn. ex R. Br. showed maximum survival (100%), followed by H. abyssinica (Bruce) J.F.Gmel. (93·52%); while the lowest survival rate was recorded for A. decurrens Willd. (57·41%). Hagenia abyssinica (Bruce) J.F.Gmel. and Chamaecytisus palmensis (Christ.) Hutch showed the lowest growth rates but both species showed the highest soil condition improvement. E. globulus Labill. and Acacia species presented the highest growth rates and biomass although Eucalyptus depleted soil nitrogen. Hagenia abyssinica (Bruce) J.F.Gmel. is recommended for soil rehabilitation, whereas Grevillea robusta A. Cunn. ex R. Br. can be used for simultaneous fuelwood production and soil rehabilitation. An ecological based study on E. globulus’ Labill. effects in Central Highlands is recommended before recommendation for large scale fuelwood plantations. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF POLICIES TO DEAL WITH WILDFIRE RISK
Authors: Carreiras Manuela , Ferreira Antonio José Dinis , Valente Sandra , Fleskens Luuk , Gonzales‐Pelayo Óscar , Rubio José Luis , Stoof Cathelijne R. , Coelho Celeste Oliveira A. , Ferreira Carla Sofia Santos , Ritsema Coen J.
Published: December 2013

Fires are the main driver of land degradation in forest areas in Mediterranean sub‐humid regions and are likely to increase as a result of climate and other global changes. To prevent deleterious processes induced by fire, several policies and strategies have been implemented at national and regional scales. We perform a comparative study of policies and strategies of Portuguese and Spanish (Comunitat Valenciana) cases in order to assess the differences between them and identify their roles in forest fire prevention and in combating and mitigating impacts. To this end, we analyse the sustainability objectives stated in the legislation of each country to identify the strategies used to deal with forest fires and the extent to which they are integrated to achieve the sustainability objectives they pursue. The comparative analysis includes an assessment of sustainability, evaluated by the explicitness of the objectives, and identification of how the lines of action contribute to reach these objectives. We found different levels of complexity and that the adoption or rejection of some of the techniques is closely related to the tradition and the experience of local communities. This analysis highlights the importance of local characteristics and the stakeholders, involvement in designing effective strategies to reduce fire risk. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Urinary fumonisin B1 and estimated fumonisin intake in women from high‐ and low‐exposure communities in Guatemala
Authors: Torres Olga , Matute Jorge , Gelineau‐van Waes Janee , Maddox Joyce R. , Gregory Simon G. , Ashley‐Koch Allison E. , Showker Jency L. , Zitomer Nicholas C. , Voss Kenneth A. , Riley Ronald T.
Published: December 2013

Scope

Fumonisin (FB) intake can be high when maize is a dietary staple. We determined (i) urinary FB (UFB) in women consuming maize in high‐ and low‐exposure communities in Guatemala, (ii) the FB levels in maize, (iii) the relationship between UFB and FB intake, and (iv) the relative excretion of UFB1, UFB2, and UFB3.

Methods and results

Urine and maize were analyzed for FB for 1 year in three departments. Maize consumption was estimated by an interview questionnaire. Fumonisin B1, B2, and B3 (FB1, FB2 and FB3), were detected in 100% of maize samples. FB1 in maize and urine was significantly higher in Jutiapa compared to Chimaltenango or Escuintla. The FB intake paralleled UFB1 in a dose‐dependent manner but UFB1 was present in much higher levels than UFB2 or UFB3 compared to maize.

Conclusion

In Jutiapa, agroecological conditions favored FB production. UFB1 mirrored the estimated FB intake. UFB1 > 0.1 ng/mL resulted in a dose‐dependent increase in the risk of exceeding FB intake of 2 μg/kg b.w./day compared to women with no detectable UFB1. More than 50% exceeded 2 μg/kg b.w./day when UFB1 was >0.5 ng/mL. UFB2 and UFB3 were rarely detected confirming that FB1 is either absorbed better or preferentially excreted in urine.
A rosemary extract enriched in carnosic acid improves circulating adipocytokines and modulates key metabolic sensors in lean Zucker rats: Critical and contrasting differences in the obese genotype
Authors: Romo‐Vaquero María , Larrosa Mar , Yáñez‐Gascón María J. , Issaly Nicolas , Flanagan John , Roller Marc , Tomás‐Barberán Francisco A. , Espín Juan C. , García‐Conesa María‐Teresa
Published: December 2013

Scope

Carnosic acid (CA) and rosemary extracts (REs) have antiobesity effects but the mechanisms are not understood. We investigated some of the potential mechanisms contributing to the metabolic effects of an RE enriched in CA.

Methods and results

An RE (∼40% CA) was administered to lean (Le, fa/+) and obese (Ob, fa/fa) female Zucker rats for 64 days. Several adipocytokines, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, phosphorylated AMP‐activated protein kinase, and hepatic gene expression changes were investigated. The RE significantly decreased circulating tumor necrosis factor alpha (RE/CT = 0.36, p < 0.0003), IL‐1β (0.48, p < 0.032), and leptin (0.48, p < 0.002), and upregulated adiponectin (1.47, p < 0.045) in the Le rats. The RE also induced phase I and phase II gene expression and the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma coactivator 1‐alpha. Notably, the RE decreased adipose phosphorylated AMP‐activated protein kinase and did not affect hepatic peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma coactivator 1‐alpha in the Ob rats.

Conclusion

Our results show that an RE rich in CA exerts anti‐inflammatory effects and affects hepatic metabolism in normal Le rats. We report significant differences in the expression and regulation of key metabolic sensors between Le and Ob rats that may contribute to explain the different ability of the two genotypes to respond to the RE.
Long‐term commercial cow's milk consumption and its effects on metabolic parameters associated with obesity in young mice
Authors: Yamin Hadas Bar , Barnea Maayan , Genzer Yoni , Chapnik Nava , Froy Oren
Published: December 2013

Scope

Research has demonstrated that consumption of milk promotes weight loss and satiety, however conflicting evidence also exists. Therefore, we tested the effect of long‐term milk consumption on body weight and metabolic parameters.

Methods and results

Newly weaned mice received whole milk, low‐fat milk, or water as control for 17 weeks and serum, liver, and white adipose tissue (WAT) were tested for parameters associated with obesity and diabetes. Our results show that low‐fat milk leads to the same overall caloric intake and body weight as the control group. However, the whole‐milk group consumed more calories and reached a higher body weight. In addition, in the low‐fat milk group, cholesterol, HDL‐cholesterol, triglycerides, leptin, ghrelin, insulin, corticosterone, and glucagon were not significantly different than the control group. In contrast, in the whole‐milk group, cholesterol, HDL‐cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucagon were high compared with the control group. Metabolism in both liver and WAT showed only slight differences between the milk groups. Whereas the whole‐milk group showed reduced insulin signaling in WAT, the low‐fat milk group exhibited increased insulin signaling.

Conclusion

Whole‐milk consumption leads to increased body weight and caloric intake and reduced insulin signaling in WAT, as opposed to low‐fat milk consumption.
Editorial
Authors: Wittchen Hans‐Ulrich
Published: December 2013

Mental health and mental disorders pose a tremendous challenge to the societal, health, and research policies in Europe, and sound advice is needed on a potential strategy for mental health research investment. Toward this goal, the ROAMER initiative (“Roadmap for Mental Health Research in Europe”) was launched to map the current state of the art, to identify gaps and to delineate advances needed in various areas and domains of mental health research in Europe. To further stimulate discussions among the scientific community and stakeholders on how to improve mental health research and to promote an improved research agenda for the next decade, this IJMPR topic issue presents the overall ROAMER methodology as well as a series of selected papers highlighting critical issues of psychological approaches and interventions as outcomes of the ROAMER work package 5 “Psychological research and treatments”. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analytical solution for one‐dimensional consolidation of unsaturated soils using eigenfunction expansion method
Authors: Ho L. , Fatahi B. , Khabbaz H.
Published: December 2013

This paper introduces an exact analytical solution for governing flow equations for one‐dimensional consolidation in unsaturated soil stratum using the techniques of eigenfunction expansion and Laplace transformation. The homogeneous boundary conditions adopted in this study are as follows: (i) a one‐way drainage system of homogenous soils, in which the top surface is considered as permeable to air and water, whereas the base is an impervious bedrock; and (ii) a two‐way drainage system where both soil ends allow free dissipation of pore‐air and pore‐water pressures. In addition, the analytical development adopts initial conditions capturing both uniform and linear distributions of the initial excess pore pressures within the soil stratum. Eigenfunctions and eigenvalues are parts of the general solution and can be obtained based on the proposed boundary conditions. Besides, the Laplace transform method is adopted to solve the first‐order differential equations. Once equations with transformed domain are all obtained, the final solutions, which are proposed to be functions of time and depth, can be achieved by taking an inverse Laplace transform. To verify the proposed solution, two worked examples are provided to present the consolidation characteristics of unsaturated soils based on the proposed method. The validation of the recent results against other existing analytical solutions is graphically demonstrated. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DM3: distributed mobility management in MPLS‐based access networks
Authors: Carmona‐Murillo Javier , González‐Sánchez José‐Luis , Cortés‐Polo David , Rodríguez‐Pérez Francisco‐Javier
Published: December 2013

Over the last few years, mobility management in the Internet has been one of the most active fields in communications. The recent increasing mobile traffic demand is having an important impact on the design of mobile networks and some limitations are arising from traditional network deployments. In order to deal with this new scenario, mobility management network architectures are being redesigned towards a more distributed operation. In this paper, we introduce DM3 (distributed mobility management MPLS), a fully distributed architecture designed to track efficiently the mobility of users in the current paradigm of evolving mobile IP networks. In DM3 architecture, several nodes are distributed in the MPLS‐based access network and the mobile nodes are served by a close‐by mobility anchor. With this operation, we reduce the routing and registration update costs, and provide a low handoff latency with a minimal packet loss rate. Analytical and experimental results are presented to justify the benefits of our proposed architecture. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Steps ahead: A randomized trial to reduce unhealthy weight gain in the lower Mississippi delta
Authors: Harrington Deirdre M. , Champagne Catherine M. , Broyles Stephanie T. , Johnson William D. , Tudor‐Locke Catrine , Katzmarzyk Peter T.
Published: December 2013

Objective

The Lower Mississippi Delta (LMD) region of the United States is characterized by high levels of obesity and physical inactivity. The objective was to test the effectiveness of adapting the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DG), with and without a physical activity (PA) component, for attenuating weight gain.

Methods

Overall, 121 white and African‐American adults (35‐64 years; body mass index 25‐34.9 kg/m2) were randomized to a DG only group (n = 61) or a DG + PA group (n = 60). Both groups received a 12‐week dietary education and behavior change intervention. The DG + PA group also received PA education and a pedometer. Changes in weight (kg), %weight, and waist circumference (WC; cm) were determined. Analyses considered all completers (n = 99) and those who engaged with ≥80% of the intervention (n = 83). General linear models compared mean changes between groups after adjustment for baseline values, race, and sex.

Results

Weight, %weight, and WC significantly decreased from baseline to follow‐up in both groups (p < 0.05; unadjusted values). Adjusted analysis showed a main effect of group for weight (p = 0.041) and %weight (p = 0.047) in the completers analysis, and WC (p = 0.046) in the ≥80% attendance analysis, with the DG + PA group improving weight‐related outcomes more.

Conclusions

Low‐burden behavioral interventions could be effective strategies in attenuating unhealthy weight gain in the LMD.
Successful use of indwelling tunneled catheters for the management of effusions in children with advanced cancer
Authors: den Hollander Barbara S. , Connolly Bairbre L. , Sung Lillian , Rapoport Adam , Zwaan C.M. , Grant Ronald M. , Parra Dimitri , Temple Michael J.
Published: December 2013

Background

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) and ascites (MA) negatively impact quality of life of palliative patients. Treatment options are limited. This study's purpose is to examine the experience with indwelling tunneled catheters (ITCs) for management of MPE/MA in children with advanced cancer.

Methods

Children with MPE/MA who underwent ITC insertion (2007–2012) were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical, procedural, complication and outcome details were analyzed.

Results

PleurX® ITCs (n = 12) were inserted in eight patients (5–18 years) with sarcoma (11 MPE, 1 MA), achieving symptom relief and facilitating discharge home post ITC (median 2 days). Median survival following ITC was 51 days. There were two major complications: pain (n = 1), late site infection (n = 1), and five minor complications. Drainage ceased in four patients (pleurodesis/tumor progression). At time of death, six ITCs (five patients) were still in situ.

Conclusions

ITC appears to be a safe, effective treatment for MPE/MA in advanced pediatric cancer, achieving symptomatic relief and discharge home. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1007–1012. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fetal cardiac disease and fetal lung volume: an in utero MRI investigation
Authors: Mlczoch Elisabeth , Schmidt Lisa , Schmid Maximilian , Kasprian Gregor , Frantal Sophie , Berger‐Kulemann Vanessa , Prayer Daniela , Michel‐Behnke Ina , Salzer‐Muhar Ulrike
Published: December 2013

Objectives

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a powerful, noninvasive tool to study fetal lung volumes after 18 weeks of gestation in vivo. In neonates with congenital heart disease (CHD), proper lung function is essential for postnatal survival. Antenatal detection of abnormal pulmonary development may help to optimize prenatal and perinatal management of at‐risk fetuses. We aimed to investigate lung volumes in fetuses with prenatally diagnosed heart disease.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, retrospective study of 105 consecutive singleton pregnancies with CHD and a control, non‐CHD group (n = 115), that underwent fetal MRI was performed. The heart defects detected were divided into four groups. Lung volumes of fetuses with heart disease were compared with control, non‐CHD fetuses. In addition, z‐scores of lung volumes were calculated for the CHD group (normal range z‐scores from −2–+2).

Results

As a group, fetuses with CHD have significantly smaller lung volumes compared with control fetuses when corrected by gestational age (GA) (p = 0.049). Of the 105 CHD fetuses studied, 18 had lung volumes with a z‐score < −2. Fetuses with different types of CHD showed similar lung volumes.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that postpartum pulmonary symptoms and outcome in neonates with congenital heart disease may be attributed to the cardiac disease itself and in part to smaller lung volumes. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cardiac mortality in users of olmesartan, other angiotensin‐receptor blockers and angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors
Authors: Walker Alexander M. , Liang Caihua , Clifford C. Robin , Parker Crawford , Feldman Allen
Published: December 2013

Purpose

Clinical trials of olmesartan for prevention of progression of renal disease in patients with diabetes showed renal protection but an unexpected imbalance in cardiac deaths. The US Food and Drug Administration requested from the manufacturer a cohort study of olmesartan, other angiotensin‐receptor blockers (ARBs), and angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors in a large population.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted with the cooperation of a US health insurer. Subject entry and follow‐up ran from 2002 through 2009. In propensity‐matched cohorts, the primary analysis considered continuous current users. Endpoints were sudden cardiac death (SCD) and all‐cause mortality, identified through the US National Death Index, supplemented by insurance and hospital discharge data. Statistical estimation was based on proportional hazards analyses with 95% confidence intervals. Power calculations had shown that 25 000 olmesartan initiators would be required to detect relative risks (RRs) of SCD of twofold or greater.

Results

A total of 57 123 initiators of olmesartan were matched 1:2 to initiators of other ARBs and 41 801 to initiators of ACE inhibitors. Average follow‐up time ranged from 8 to 9 months. Olmesartan initiators and comparators experienced similar patterns of both outcomes, with RRs ≤1.0 and upper confidence bounds ≤1.6. Among persons with prior use of hypoglycemic agents, in comparison with other ARBs, the RR of SCD for olmesartan users was 0.8, with an upper confidence bound of 2.2.

Conclusion

The results of this well‐powered study do not raise concerns for the risk of SCD or death from all causes among olmesartan users in comparison with users of other ARBs or ACE inhibitors. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The relationship between asthma and bronchiolitis is modified by TLR4, CD14, and IL‐13 polymorphisms
Authors: Jung Young‐Ho , Seo Ju‐Hee , Kim Hyung Young , Kwon Ji‐Won , Kim Byoung‐Ju , Kim Hyo‐Bin , Lee So‐Yeon , Jang Gwang Cheon , Song Dae Jin , Kim Woo Kyung , Shim Jung Yeon , Hong Soo‐Jong
Published: December 2013

Background

Asthma is a complex genetic disorder that is associated with both genetic and environmental factors. The aim of study was to investigate the combined effect of toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4), cluster of differentiation 14 (CD14), and interleukin‐13 (IL‐13) polymorphisms and bronchiolitis in the development of childhood asthma.

Methods

A modified International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire was used to survey 1,341 elementary school children and 919 nursery children in Seoul, Korea. TLR4 (rs1927911), CD14 (rs2569190), and IL‐13 (rs20541) polymorphisms were genotyped by the TaqMan assay.

Results

In elementary school and nursery children, parental history of asthma (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.56 [95% CI 1.16–5.63], aOR 3.60 [95% CI 1.66–7.76], respectively), and past history of bronchiolitis (aOR 3.11 [95% CI 1.84–5.24], aOR 3.94 [95% CI 2.27–6.84], respectively) were independent risk factors for asthma diagnosis. When compared to children with each CC of TLR4 polymorphism or TT of CD14 polymorphism or GG of IL13 polymorphism and no past history of bronchiolitis, children with CT or TT of TLR4 polymorphism and past history of bronchiolitis had 4.23 and 5.34 times higher risk to develop asthma, respectively; children with TT of CD14 polymorphism and past history of bronchiolitis had 3.57 and 7.22 times higher risk for asthma, respectively; children with GA or AA of IL‐13 polymorphism and past history of bronchiolitis had 3.21 and 4.13 times higher risk for asthma, respectively.

Conclusions

Family history of asthma or allergic rhinitis and past history of bronchiolitis could be independent risk factors for the development of childhood asthma. The relationship between asthma and bronchiolitis is modified by the TLR4, CD14, and IL‐13 polymorphisms in Korean children. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:8–16. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Visual pattern discovery in image and video data: a brief survey
Authors: Wang Hongxing , Zhao Gangqiang , Yuan Junsong
Published: December 2013

In image and video data, visual pattern refers to re‐occurring composition of visual primitives. Such visual patterns extract the essence of the image and video data that convey rich information. However, unlike frequent patterns in transaction data, there are considerable visual content variations and complex spatial structures among visual primitives, which make effective exploration of visual patterns a challenging task. Many methods have been proposed to address the problem of visual pattern discovery during the past decade. In this article, we provide a review of the major progress in visual pattern discovery. We categorize the existing methods into two groups: bottom‐up pattern discovery and top‐down pattern modeling. The bottom‐up pattern discovery method starts with unordered visual primitives followed by merging the primitives until larger visual patterns are found. In contrast, the top‐down method starts with the modeling of visual primitive compositions and then infers the pattern discovery result. A summary of related applications is also presented. At the end we identify the open issues for future research. WIREs Data Mining Knowl Discov 2014, 4:24–37. doi: 10.1002/widm.1110

This article is categorized under:

Algorithmic Development > Multimedia

Algorithmic Development > Structure Discovery
The Challenges of Health System Financing
Authors: Ologunde Rele
Published: December 2013

With recent world health reports focussing on health systems, there have been renewed calls for universal health‐care coverage globally. Ensuring universal coverage requires a well‐financed health system. However, the evidence guiding health system financing policy is equivocal. Health financing mechanisms need to be appropriate for the country with an emphasis on equity, income and risk subsidization, and a trend towards reducing out‐of‐pocket payments. Innovative financing mechanisms have great potential to meet the funding demand without generating unsustainable pressure on public resources. As such, innovative financing has the potential to fill the funding gap critical to the transition to more equitable models of health‐care financing in many low‐ and middle‐income countries.
Health Services Use Among Veterans Using U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Mainstream Homeless Services
Authors: Byrne Thomas , Montgomery Ann Elizabeth , Treglia Daniel , Roberts Christopher Brent , Culhane Dennis P.
Published: December 2013

We examined the use of health and behavioral health services for two groups of homeless veterans (N = 1,302) in the New York City area who were enrolled in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system—veterans who use VA homeless programs, and veterans who use mainstream homeless programs only. Using administrative records from the VA and the New York City Department of Homeless Services, we compared the characteristics of users of VA and mainstream homeless programs and examined between‐group differences in VA inpatient and outpatient services use and within‐group changes in services use prior and subsequent to onset of homelessness. Roughly 41 percent of veterans only used mainstream homeless services. There were no significant differences between users of VA and mainstream homeless services in terms of gender, age, ethnicity, and level of VA eligibility. Veterans who used only mainstream homeless assistance services were less likely to be engaged with—and made less intensive use of—VA health and behavioral health inpatient and outpatient services than those who used VA homeless services. Efforts should be made to identify and engage veterans who, while enrolled in VA healthcare, may go unidentified as homeless by the VA.
Reevaluation of band‐tailed pigeon age classification criteria using wing attributes
Authors: Sanders Todd A. , Braun Clait E.
Published: December 2013

Age classification is important in understanding aspects of population productivity and dynamics, and making informed harvest management decisions. Since 1994 the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has, via the Parts Collection Survey, annually collected a wing from a sample of hunter‐harvested band‐tailed pigeons (Patagioenas fasciata) across the species' range in the United States to estimate productivity over time. Identification of age composition of the harvest depends on a key to quickly and accurately assign pigeons to age classes with as little as a wing from each pigeon. Existing keys for pigeon age classification do not incorporate more recent published information on timing and sequence of post‐juvenal molt. We developed a key in 1994 to classify age (juv, subad, ad) of band‐tailed pigeons from wings in North America based on earlier published keys (reported to be accurate 97.3%, on average) combined with information subsequently published on timing and sequence of post‐juvenal molt. Our key was applied and the examination procedure refined during our annual examining of pigeon wings for the Parts Collection Survey, 1994–2012. We examined all pigeon wings (1/bird) submitted to the Parts Collection Survey. The mean number of wings submitted annually was 494 (range = 114–1,090) from the Pacific Coast population and 79 (range = 3–265) from the Interior population. We examined wings during 1 day each year. Each wing was examined by an initial examiner and final examiner (C. E. Braun). We recorded discrepancies in age classification between examiners during 2005–2012. The mean annual number of discrepancies was 3.1 (SE = 0.3, range = 2–4, n = 8) representing a mean of 1.0% (SE = 0.2, range = 0.4–1.6%) of the total annual sample size. The key has been demonstrated to be accurate and transferable among biologists who have basic training in reading a key and examination of wings (primaries, secondaries, and coverts). Published 2013. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Using odor cues to elicit a behavioral and hormonal response in zoo‐housed African wild dogs
Authors: Rafacz Michelle L. , Santymire Rachel M.
Published: December 2013

Olfactory enrichment, like odor cues, can positively affect behavior, reproductive success, and stress physiology in zoo‐housed species. Our goal was to determine if odor cues were enriching to the African wild dog (AWD; Lycaon pictus), a species with a complex social structure and a highly developed sense of smell. Our objectives were to: (1) examine changes in activity levels and stress hormone physiology in response to fecal odor cues from natural competitor and natural/unnatural prey species; and (2) determine whether these odor cues could function as effective enrichment for zoo‐housed AWDs. Over a 6‐month period, fecal samples were collected from two males (AWD 1: dominant, AWD 2: subordinate), fecal glucocorticoid metabolites (FGMs) were validated using an ACTH‐challenge, and hormones were analyzed for FGMs by enzyme immunoassay. Behavioral observations were conducted using scan‐sampling, and contact and proximity were recorded. AWDs were presented with three fecal odor cues: LION (competitor), CATTLE (unnatural prey), and GAZELLE (natural prey). Only the GAZELLE cue elicited an increase in activity (10.6%) in both individuals and increased positive social behaviors with higher frequencies of affiliative, submissive, and dominant behavior. AWD 1 demonstrated lower (P < 0.05) FGMs than AWD 2 both before and after all odor cues, and FGMs decreased (P = 0.08) in AWD 2 after all cues. We conclude that exposure to natural prey odor cues may be used as effective enrichment for AWDs, and that changes in stress hormone physiology in response to odor cues may be dependent on social rank in this species. Zoo Biol. 33:144–149, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals Inc.
An investigation of temporal flowering segregation in species‐rich grasslands
Authors: Kipling Richard P. , Warren John
Published: December 2013

Processes such as competition and facilitation are believed to be important in defining pollination niches in species‐rich plant communities. Species with similar floral phenotypes are expected to flower together where this facilitates pollination, while differences in floral phenology are expected if such flowers compete for pollinators. These expectations were tested at seven sites by comparing the observed co‐flowering of plants with similar floral phenotypes with null model outcomes. Phenotypic classifications were evaluated using observations of plant–pollinator interactions. Pollinator guilds differed in the number of visits made to flowers in different floral colour and shape categories, indicating that such categories were ecologically relevant. For species with complex flowers, each floral category contained few species, so that the observed low occurrence of co‐flowering could be explained by chance. In contrast, within phenotypic categories species with simple flowers bloomed together more than expected at three sites, but these overlaps could be explained by family membership. Most species with complex flowers could be segregated into unique pollination niches by broad floral colour and shape categories, so that there was little opportunity for competition between flowers within such categories. Species with simple floral phenotypes were less well defined by floral phenotype and phenology. Historical sorting may explain differences between complex flowers, while co‐flowering between species with simple flowers requires further investigation. Differences found between species with simple and complex flowers suggest that levels of phenotypic specialisation should be taken into account in community level studies of pollination systems.