bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Crystallized Titanomagnetite from Evolved Magmas and Magma Recharge in the Mesoproterozoic Zhuqing Oxide‐Bearing Gabbroic Intrusions, Sichuan, SW China
Authors: FAN Hongpeng , ZHU Weiguang
Published: April 2017

The ca. 1.5 Ga mafic intrusions in the Zhuqing area, predominantly composed of alkaline gabbroic rocks in the Kangdian region of SW China, occur as dykes or irregular small intrusions hosting Fe–Ti–V mineralization. All of the intrusions that intrude the dolomite or shales of the Mesoproterozoic Heishan Formation of the Huili Group are composed of three cyclic units from the base upward: a marginal cyclic unit, a lower cyclic unit and an upper cyclic unit. The Fe–Ti–V oxide ore bodies are hosted in the lower and upper cyclic units. The textural relationships between minerals in the intrusions suggest that titanomagnetite formed earlier than silicate grains because euhedral magnetite and ilmenite grains were enclosed in clinopyroxene and plagioclase. Both the magnetitess–ilmenitessintergrowths due to subsolidus oxidation–exsolutions and the relative higher V distribution coefficient between magnetite and silicate melts in the gabbros from the Zhuqing area are different from those of other typical Fe–Ti bearing mafic rocks, suggesting that the oxygen fugacity was low in the gabbric rocks from the Zhuqing area. This finding was further confirmed by calculations based on the compositions of magnetite and ilmenite pairs. The clinopyroxene, magnetite and ilmenite in the intrusions from the Zhuqing area had considerably lower MgO than those of other typical Fe–Ti oxide‐rich complexes, suggesting that the titanomagnetite from the intrusion may have crystallized at a relatively late stage of evolution from a more evolved magma. Titanomagnetite first fractionally crystallized and subsequently settled in the lower parts of the magma chamber, where it concentrated and formed Fe–Ti–V oxide ore layers at the bases of the lower and upper cycles. Moreover, the occurrence of multiple Fe‐Ti oxide layers alternating with Fe‐Ti oxide‐bearing silicate layers suggests that multiple pulses of magma were involved in the formation of the intrusions and related Fe‐Ti‐V oxide deposits in the Zhuqing area.
Geochronology, Petrology and Geochemistry of Xingdi No. 3 Mafic‐Ultramafic Intrusions in the Northeastern Tarim Craton, NW China
Authors: XIA Zhaode , XIA Mingzhe , JIANG Changyi
Published: April 2017

The Xingdi mafic‐ultramafic intrusions occur in the northeastern margin of the Tarim craton. The Xingdi No. 3 intrusion is the smallest of four intrusions, with an exposed area of 1.7 km2, and the zircon U‐Pb age of the intrusion is 752±4 Ma. The intrusion consists of gabbros, pyroxenites and peridotites, and exhibits a crystallization sequence of the main rock‐forming minerals as olivine, orthopyroxene, clinopyroxene and plagioclase. Mineralization occurred at or near the boundaries of the intrusion between pyroxenites and peridotites, and appears as a layered or lenticular shape about 500 m long and 4–15 m wide. The primary sulfides have a relatively simple mineralogy dominated by pyrrhotite‐pentlandite‐chalcopyrite assemblages, which occur as droplet, star‐like and graphic texture and locally sideronitic structures. Geochronological and geochemistry investigations suggest that the Xingdi mafic‐ultramafic intrusions and coeval volcanic rock in the Kuluktag area of the Tarim craton formed in an intracontinental breakup environment. Based on the composition of the dominant rock‐forming minerals and covariant relationships of other oxides versus MgO, the parental magma of the Xingdi No. 3 intrusion belongs to high‐Mg tholeiitic basaltic magmas with MgO of 10.78 wt%. The Xingdi No. 3 intrusive rocks are characterized by light REE enrichment relative to heavy REE, negative Nb‐Ta anomalies, low 143Nd/144Nd ratios (from 0.511183 to 0.511793) and high initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios (from 0.7051 to 0.7113). The magma was derived from the enriched‐lithospheric mantle and was contaminated during emplacement. According to rock assemblages, mineralization, olivine characteristics, geochemical characteristics and mass balance, there are better copper‐nickel ore prospects in the Xingdi No. 3 intrusion than in the other three intrusions in the area.
Lithium Isotopic Geochemistry in Subduction Zones: Retrospects and Prospects
Authors: WAN Hongqiong , SUN He , LIU Haiyang , XIAO Yilin
Published: April 2017

Subduction zones involve many complex geological processes, including the release of slab‐derived fluids, fluid/rock interactions, partial melting, isotopic fractionations, elemental transporting, and crust/mantle interactions. Lithium (Li) isotopes (6Li and 7Li) have relative mass difference up to 16%, being the largest among metal elements. Thus, Li isotopes have advantage to interprete trace various geological processes. Most importantly, during crust/mantle interactions in deep subduction zones, surface materials and mantle rocks usually have distinct Li isotopic compositions. Li isotopes can be potential tracer for subduction processes, from the onset of subduction to the release of Li from subducted slabs and interaction with mantle wedge, as well as the fate of Li in slab‐derived fluids and residual slabs. Moreover, the Li isotopic composition of subducting output materials can provide useful information for understanding global Li circulation. With developments in measurement and expansion of Li isotopic database, Li isotopic geochemistry will provide more inference and be a powerful tracer for understanding subduction‐related processes. This work retrospected the application of Li isotopes in tracing successive subduction processes, and made some prospects for further studies of Li isotopes.
South Arabian zabūr script in the Gulf: some recent discoveries from Mleiha (Sharjah, UAE)
Authors: Stein Peter
Published: April 2017

While the so‐called Hasaitic script in the Gulf region has long been understood as being an influence from South Arabia, the actual reason for, and the way of, adapting the Ancient South Arabian script in that region has remained a matter of dispute. Recent finds from Mleiha may now contribute to clarify this picture. The two objects, a small tablet of silver and the fragment of an amphora, are inscribed with a script that is neither Hasaitic in its common form (i.e. a close relative of the Ancient South Arabian monumental or musnad script) nor Aramaic, but rather a derivative of the so‐called minuscule script or zabūr from Ancient South Arabia. The discovery of this script, which was used for everyday correspondence in ancient Yemen, is thus far unparalleled in the Gulf region. The paper provides a first decipherment and interpretation of the two inscriptions and draws some preliminary conclusions on the development of writing in the region.
Birth decade affects the sensitization pattern and asthma risk in Finnish adult population
Authors: Toppila‐Salmi S. , Luukkainen A. , Lemmetyinen R. , Karjalainen J. , Huhtala H. , Renkonen R. , Wang D. Y. , Mäkelä M. J. , Pekkanen J.
Published: April 2017

We have previously shown that sensitizations to several types of allergens distinguish subjects with and without adult‐onset asthma in Finland. The aim was to analyze how age affects sensitization and asthma risk. We used previous population‐based case‐control data (N=456) from Finnish adult asthma patients with one or two matched controls. Asthma was diagnosed based on a typical history of asthmatic symptoms and lung function tests. Allergic sensitization was determined by skin prick test (SPT) to 17 aeroallergens. Information on demographics was obtained by a questionnaire. Sensitization to more than one allergen type and the number of positive SPT reactions associated with younger age and asthma. Atopic subjects aged 65 and above were characterized by sensitization to only one to two allergens, with very few animal danders and without an association with asthma. Multiple sensitizations and animal dander sensitization are more common among Finnish asthmatic adults aged under 56 than among older asthmatics. Cohort studies are needed to understand timing of host‐environmental interactions behind this.
The Chemical Composition and Production Area of Early Western Zhou Proto‐Porcelain Unearthed from Yejiashan Cemetery, Suizhou, China
Authors: Yu Y. B. , Huang F. C. , Cui J. F. , Guo C. J. , Chen J. L.
Published: April 2017

The bodies and glazes of 27 early Western Zhou proto‐porcelain samples from Yejiashan cemetery, Hubei Province, were analysed using LA‐ICP–AES, SEM, XRD, a thermal expansion instrument and other analytical methods. The results indicated that the bodies of all samples were characterized by high silicon and low aluminium, and were made with porcelain stone raw materials found in the south of China. The glazes are typical of high‐temperature calcium glazes of the CaO (MgO) – K2O (Na2O) – Al2O3 – SiO2 series, with relatively high Mn and P content, which was probably caused by the addition of plant ashes. The physical properties and phase compositions of Yejiashan proto‐porcelain show that firing processes were still in the early stages of development in ancient China. Multivariate statistical analyses indicated that Yejiashan proto‐porcelain might have come from the Deqing area, in Zhejiang Province. These results provide new archaeological evidence for research on issues related to material flow in the Western Zhou dynasty.
The Evolution of the Vitruvian Recipes over 500 Years of Floor‐Making Techniques: The Case Studies of the Domus delle Bestie Ferite and the Domus di Tito Macro (Aquileia, Italy)
Authors: Secco M. , Dilaria S. , Addis A. , Bonetto J. , Artioli G. , Salvadori M.
Published: April 2017

The paper reports the results of a research project aimed at the characterization of the floor bedding mortars of two Roman houses in Aquileia (north‐eastern Italy), the Domus delle Bestie Ferite and the Domus di Tito Macro. Seventy floor bedding mortars of the two domus were selected and almost half were fully minero‐petrographically characterized by means of optical microscopy operated in transmitted light (OM‐TL), X‐ray powder diffraction analyses coupled with quantitative phase analysis by means of the Rietveld method (XRPD‐QPA) and scanning electron microscopy with EDS microanalysis (SEM–EDS). The results indicate an evolution of the mortar preparation techniques over time in the mosaic of both houses. The materials are compared to the traditional Roman recipes for specific construction techniques.
Hypocobalaminaemia as a cause of bone marrow failure and pancytopenia in a cat
Authors: Stanley EL , Eatroff AE
Published: April 2017

Case report

A male Domestic Short‐hair cat was presented for chronic weight loss, lethargy and hyporexia. Complete haematological examination revealed non‐regenerative anaemia, neutropenia and thrombocytopenia, as well as Howell‐Jolly bodies, anisocytosis, polychromasia and macrocytosis on blood smear evaluation. Histopathological evaluation of bone marrow biopsy disclosed hypocellularity consistent with bone marrow failure. Concurrent hypocobalaminaemia was identified and treated with parenteral cyanocobalamin supplementation. Other differential diagnoses for pancytopenia, including infectious, toxic, immune‐mediated and neoplastic causes, were ruled out.

Conclusion

The cat's erythrocyte, leucocyte and platelet counts normalised after 2 months of cyanocobalamin supplementation, suggesting that pancytopenia may be a rare manifestation of feline cobalamin deficiency.
Retrospective study on the occurrence of canine lymphoma and associated breed risks in a population of dogs in NSW (2001–2009)
Authors: Yau PPY , Dhand NK , Thomson PC , Taylor RM
Published: April 2017

Objective

To identify risk factors for canine lymphoma in dogs from New South Wales, Australia, and to compare factors affecting remission duration.

Methods

Client‐owned dogs diagnosed with lymphoma presented to the University Veterinary Teaching Hospital (UVTH), University of Sydney, between 2001 and 2009 (n = 134) were compared with a control population of dogs seen in that period of time with a diagnosis other than lymphoma to evaluate association of explanatory variables (breed, age and sex) with the outcome (case or control status).

Results

The Australian Cattle Dog (odds ratio (OR) = 4.71; 95% confidence interval (Cl) 2.31–9.62; P < 0.001), Doberman (OR = 7.64; 95% Cl 2.87–20.34; P = 0.001) and Rottweiler (OR = 4.52; 95% Cl 2.09–9.73; P = 0.001) had increased odds of lymphoma among dogs attending the UVTH compared with crossbreds. The results suggested that the Border Collie (OR = 3.38; 95% Cl 1.52–7.53; P = 0.008) and Boxer (OR = 3.85; 95% Cl 1.65–8.95; P = 0.006) also have increased odds of lymphoma among the pure‐breed dogs attending the UVTH when compared with crossbred dogs.

Conclusions

The results of this study confirmed a breed predilection for lymphoma in dogs, with the Australian Cattle Dog and Doberman having increased odds of lymphoma.
Role of Cytochrome P450 3A4 and 1A2 Phenotyping in Patients with Advanced Non‐small‐Cell Lung Cancer Receiving Erlotinib Treatment
Authors: Parra‐Guillen Zinnia P. , Berger Peter B. , Haschke Manuel , Donzelli Massimiliano , Winogradova Daria , Pfister Bogumila , Früh Martin , Gillessen Silke , Krähenbühl Stephan , Kloft Charlotte , Joerger Markus
Published: April 2017

Erlotinib is metabolized by cytochrome p450 (CYP) 3A and CYP1A. This study assessed CYP3A4 (midazolam) and CYP1A2 (caffeine) phenotyping in plasma and dried blood spots (DBS) for predicting the pharmacokinetics and toxicity of erlotinib in 36 patients with advanced NSCLC. On day 1, erlotinib 150 mg OD was initiated, and the two oral probe drugs midazolam (2 mg) and caffeine (100 mg) were added on day 1. Plasma and DBS were collected for erlotinib, OSI‐420 and probe drugs for up to 6 hr on day 1 and 2‐weekly up to week 10. Probe drugs, erlotinib and OSI‐420 were analysed using LC‐MS‐MS, and PK data were processed using population modelling. A high correlation was found between plasma and DBS concentrations for erlotinib (R2 = 0.960, p < 0.0001), OSI‐420 (R2 = 0.971, p < 0.0001), midazolam (R2 = 0.995, p < 0.0001) and caffeine (R2 = 0.968, p < 0.0001). Apparent oral caffeine clearance was significantly correlated with erlotinib clearance (R2 = 0.33, p = 0.048), while midazolam clearance was not (R2 = −0.09, p = 0.596). Erlotinib clearance was lower in patients experiencing grade 2 or 3 rash as compared to patients experiencing grade 0 or 1 rash (3.15 versus 3.93 L/hr, p = 0.086 for Student's t‐test). The results suggest that probe drug phenotyping is unlikely to substitute therapeutic drug monitoring of erlotinib in patients with advanced NSCLC, but erlotinib PK sampling from DBS may replace more invasive venous sampling and facilitate TDM in patients with cancer.
The effect of rituximab on anti‐platelet autoantibody levels in patients with immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Arnold Donald M. , Vrbensky John R. , Karim Nadia , Smith James W. , Liu Yang , Ivetic Nikola , Kelton John G. , Nazy Ishac
Published: April 2017

Rituximab is an effective therapy resulting in a platelet count improvement in 60% of patients with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Rituximab depletes B cells; thus, a reduction in platelet autoantibody levels would be anticipated in patients who achieve a clinical response to this treatment. The objectives of this study were to determine whether rituximab was associated with a reduction in platelet autoantibody levels, and to correlate the loss of autoantibodies with the achievement of a treatment response. We performed a case‐control study nested within a previous randomized controlled trial of standard therapy plus adjuvant rituximab or placebo. We measured platelet‐bound anti‐glycoprotein (GP) IIbIIIa and anti‐GPIbIX using the antigen capture test. Of 55 evaluable patients, 25 (45%) had a detectable platelet autoantibody at baseline. Rituximab was associated with a significant reduction in anti‐GPIIbIIIa levels (P = 0·02) but not anti‐GPIbIX levels (P = 0·51) compared with placebo. Neither the presence of an autoantibody at baseline nor the loss of the autoantibody after treatment was associated with a response to rituximab. The subset of patients with persistent autoantibodies after treatment failed to achieve a platelet count response, suggesting that persistence of platelet autoantibodies can be a marker of disease severity.
Advances in understanding the pathogenesis of familial myeloproliferative neoplasms
Authors: Rumi Elisa , Cazzola Mario
Published: April 2017

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are generally acquired as a result of a somatic stem cell mutation leading to clonal expansion of myeloid precursors. In addition to sporadic cases, familial MPN occurs when one or several MPN affect different relatives of the same family. MPN driver mutations (JAK2, CALR, MPL) are somatically acquired also in familial cases, so a genetic predisposition to acquire one of the MPN driver mutations would be inherited, even though the causative germline mutations underlying familial MPN remain largely unknown. Recently some germline variants [ATG2B and GSKIP duplication, RBBP6 mutations, SH2B3 (LNK) mutations], which can cause familial MPN, have been reported but these mutations are rare and do not explain most familial cases. Patients with familial MPN show the same clinical features and suffer the same complications as those with sporadic disease. This review aims to offer up‐to‐date information regarding the genetics of familial MPN.
Earlier defibrotide initiation post‐diagnosis of veno‐occlusive disease/sinusoidal obstruction syndrome improves Day +100 survival following haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Richardson Paul G. , Smith Angela R. , Triplett Brandon M. , Kernan Nancy A. , Grupp Stephan A. , Antin Joseph H. , Lehmann Leslie , Miloslavsky Maja , Hume Robin , Hannah Alison L. , Nejadnik Bijan , Soiffer Robert J.
Published: April 2017

Hepatic veno‐occlusive disease/sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (VOD/SOS) is a progressive, potentially fatal complication of conditioning for haematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). The VOD/SOS pathophysiological cascade involves endothelial‐cell activation and damage, and a prothrombotic‐hypofibrinolytic state. Severe VOD/SOS (typically characterized by multi‐organ dysfunction) may be associated with >80% mortality. Defibrotide is approved for treating severe hepatic VOD/SOS post‐HSCT in the European Union, and for hepatic VOD/SOS with renal or pulmonary dysfunction post‐HSCT in the United States. Previously, defibrotide (25 mg/kg/day in 4 divided doses for a recommended ≥21 days) was available through an expanded‐access treatment protocol for patients with VOD/SOS. Data from this study were examined post‐hoc to determine if the timing of defibrotide initiation post‐VOD/SOS diagnosis affected Day +100 survival post‐HSCT. Among 573 patients, defibrotide was started on the day of VOD/SOS diagnosis in approximately 30%, and within 7 days in >90%. The relationship between Day +100 survival and treatment initiation before/after specific days post‐diagnosis showed superior survival when treatment was initiated closer to VOD/SOS diagnosis with a statistically significant trend over time for better outcomes with earlier treatment initiation (P < 0·001). These results suggest that initiation of defibrotide should not be delayed after diagnosis of VOD/SOS.
Biologically meaningful scents: a framework for understanding predator–prey research across disciplines
Authors: Parsons Michael H. , Apfelbach Raimund , Banks Peter B. , Cameron Elissa Z. , Dickman Chris R. , Frank Anke S. K. , Jones Menna E. , McGregor Ian S. , McLean Stuart , Müller‐Schwarze Dietland , Sparrow Elisa E. , Blumstein Daniel T.
Published: April 2017

ABSTRACT

Fear of predation is a universal motivator. Because predators hunt using stealth and surprise, there is a widespread ability among prey to assess risk from chemical information – scents – in their environment. Consequently, scents often act as particularly strong modulators of memory and emotions. Recent advances in ecological research and analytical technology are leading to novel ways to use this chemical information to create effective attractants, repellents and anti‐anxiolytic compounds for wildlife managers, conservation biologists and health practitioners. However, there is extensive variation in the design, results, and interpretation of studies of olfactory‐based risk discrimination. To understand the highly variable literature in this area, we adopt a multi‐disciplinary approach and synthesize the latest findings from neurobiology, chemical ecology, and ethology to propose a contemporary framework that accounts for such disparate factors as the time‐limited stability of chemicals, highly canalized mechanisms that influence prey responses, and the context within which these scents are detected (e.g. availability of alternative resources, perceived shelter, and ambient physical parameters). This framework helps to account for the wide range of reported responses by prey to predator scents, and explains, paradoxically, how the same individual predator scent can be interpreted as either safe or dangerous to a prey animal depending on how, when and where the cue was deposited. We provide a hypothetical example to illustrate the most common factors that influence how a predator scent (from dingoes, Canis dingo) may both attract and repel the same target organism (kangaroos, Macropus spp.). This framework identifies the catalysts that enable dynamic scents, odours or odorants to be used as attractants as well as deterrents. Because effective scent tools often relate to traumatic memories (fear and/or anxiety) that cause future avoidance, this information may also guide the development of appeasement, enrichment and anti‐anxiolytic compounds, and help explain the observed variation in post‐traumatic‐related behaviours (including post‐traumatic stress disorder, PTSD) among diverse terrestrial taxa, including humans.
The value of a combined word recognition and knowledge measure to understand characteristics of our patients’ oral health literacy
Authors: Atchison Kathryn A. , Macek Mark D. , Markovic Daniela
Published: April 2017

Objective

The objective of the analysis was to examine the association between sociodemographic and dental understanding and utilization characteristics and lower oral health literacy (HL) and knowledge.

Methods

The cross‐sectional Multicenter Oral Health Literacy Research Study (MOHLRS) recruited and interviewed 923 English‐speaking, initial care‐seeking adults. The questionnaire included participant sociodemographic characteristics, measures of the participant's understanding and utilization of dentistry, and two oral HL measures, the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine and Dentistry (REALM‐D) and the Comprehensive Measure of Oral Health Knowledge (CMOHK), which were combined into a new composite HL and knowledge measure, the MOHLR‐K.

Results

In adjusted multivariable analysis, persons who reported more understanding of dentist instructions had higher mean scores for all HL measures. Subjects reporting the highest level of understanding had greater scores by an average of 1.6 points for the MOHLR‐K (95% CI: 0.85‐2.40, P<.01), 2.11 points for REALMD‐20 (95% CI: 0.75‐3.48, P<.01) and 2.20 points for CMOHK (95% CI: 1.01‐3.40, P<.01) after controlling for demographic and other dental understanding and utilization factors. Persons who reported history of tooth decay had higher MOHLR‐K scores by an average of about 0.77 points (95% CI: 0.49‐1.04, P<.01), higher REALMD‐20 scores by 0.54 points (95% CI: 0.12‐0.95, P=.01) and higher CMOHK scores by 1.22 points (95% CI: 0.82‐1.63, P<.01) as compared to persons without tooth decay history after controlling for the other factors. Persons who had support all of the time for travel to the dentist had higher scores by an average of about 0.5 points for the MOHLR‐K (95% CI: 0.04‐0.96, P=.03) and about 0.89 points for the REALMD‐20 (95% CI: 0‐1.79, P=.05) as compared to subjects with no support after controlling for other factors. Report of periodontal history, financial challenges to delay a dental visit and dental utilization were not significantly associated with any of the HL measures once the other factors were adjusted for in the model.

Conclusion

The analysis confirmed that pronunciation of medical and dental terms may not fully reflect comprehension and revealed that understanding both patients’ sociodemographic and dental understanding and utilization factors, such as transportation to the dental office associated with lower oral HL and knowledge, could help the profession develop appropriate clear language programmes to improve access to dental care for vulnerable populations.
Blood flow restriction attenuates eccentric exercise‐induced muscle damage without perceptual and cardiovascular overload
Authors: Curty Victor M. , Melo Alexandre B. , Caldas Leonardo C. , Guimarães‐Ferreira Lucas , de Sousa Nuno F. , Vassallo Paula F. , Vasquez Elisardo C. , Barauna Valério G.
Published: April 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute effects of high‐intensity eccentric exercise (HI‐ECC) combined with blood flow restriction (BFR) on muscle damage markers, and perceptual and cardiovascular responses. Nine healthy men (26 ± 1 years, BMI 24 ± 1 kg m−²) underwent unilateral elbow extension in two conditions: without (HI‐ECC) and with BFR (HI‐ECC+BFR). The HI‐ECC protocol corresponded to three sets of 10 repetitions with 130% of maximal strength (1RM). The ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and pain (RPP) were measured after each set. Muscle damage was evaluated by range of motion (ROM), upper arm circumference (CIR) and muscle soreness using a visual analogue scale at different moments (pre‐exercise, immediately after, 24 and 48 h postexercise). Systolic (SBP), diastolic (DBP), mean blood pressure (MBP) and heart rate (HR) were measured before exercise and after each set. RPP was higher in HI‐ECC+BFR than in HI‐ECC after each set. Range of motion decreased postexercise in both conditions; however, in HI‐ECC+BFR group, it returned to pre‐exercise condition earlier (post‐24 h) than HI‐ECC (post‐48 h). CIR increased only in HI‐ECC, while no difference was observed in HI‐ECC+BFR condition. Regarding cardiovascular responses, MBP and SBP did not change at any moment. HR showed similar increases in both conditions during exercise while DBP decreased only in HI‐ECC condition. Thus, BFR attenuated HI‐ECC‐induced muscle damage and there was no increase in cardiovascular responses.
Destination‐based vs. Origin‐based Commodity Taxation in Large Open Economies with Unemployment
Authors: Antoniou Fabio , Hatzipanayotou Panos , Tsakiris Nikos
Published: April 2017

We construct a perfectly competitive model of two symmetric countries producing tradable commodities and a public consumption good. Destination‐ or origin‐based taxes are levied on the consumption of the tradable goods. In both countries, a fixed wage leads to involuntary unemployment. We derive the Nash equilibrium consumption taxes under the two taxation principles with endogenous world prices, and compare them to (i) the cooperative rates, and (ii) the rates when world prices are fixed. We demonstrate that with endogenous world prices, the induced terms‐of‐trade effects cancel out under the destination principle, but they prevail under the origin principle of taxation. Nash equilibrium destination‐based taxes are inefficiently low when the exporting sector in each country is non‐labour‐intensive. The Nash equilibrium origin‐based taxes can be either higher or lower than the corresponding cooperative rates.
The politics of PISA: The media, policy and public responses in Norway and England
Authors: Hopfenbeck Therese N. , Görgen Kristine
Published: April 2017

Using the PISA 2015 releases in Norway and England, this article explores how PISA has been presented in the media and how the policy level has responded to the results. England will be used as an example for comparison. The article presents early media responses from the 20 most circulated daily newspapers in the two countries and discusses them in relation both to the national PISA reports in Norway and England, as well as the international report of the OECD. The media responses are further interpreted in light of previous research in both countries, with a particular focus upon Norway, where previous Ministers of Education have been interviewed about assessment policy and education reforms.
The greenscape shapes surfing of resource waves in a large migratory herbivore
Authors: Aikens Ellen O. , Kauffman Matthew J. , Merkle Jerod A. , Dwinnell Samantha P. H. , Fralick Gary L. , Monteith Kevin L.
Published: April 2017

The Green Wave Hypothesis posits that herbivore migration manifests in response to waves of spring green‐up (i.e. green‐wave surfing). Nonetheless, empirical support for the Green Wave Hypothesis is mixed, and a framework for understanding variation in surfing is lacking. In a population of migratory mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), 31% surfed plant phenology in spring as well as a theoretically perfect surfer, and 98% surfed better than random. Green‐wave surfing varied among individuals and was unrelated to age or energetic state. Instead, the greenscape, which we define as the order, rate and duration of green‐up along migratory routes, was the primary factor influencing surfing. Our results indicate that migratory routes are more than a link between seasonal ranges, and they provide an important, but often overlooked, foraging habitat. In addition, the spatiotemporal configuration of forage resources that propagate along migratory routes shape animal movement and presumably, energy gains during migration.
Prompting All Students to Learn: Examining Dynamic Assessment of Special Needs and Typical Students in a Prekindergarten Inclusive French Program
Authors: Regalla Michele , Peker Hilal
Published: April 2017

This study examined a teacher's prompting strategies and the use of dynamic assessment (DA) in an inclusive prekindergarten French program. Prior research has shown that DA is an effective method to assess both foreign language learning and first language development for typically developing students and for students with special needs, as well as for identifying bilingual students with language impairments. Data were collected from videorecordings of class sessions, DA scores, and a questionnaire on which the French teacher reported her classroom prompting strategies and predicted students’ needs for prompting on the DA. Scores on the DA and the French teacher's predictions of student prompting needs were analyzed through independent t tests. In addition, 30 videorecordings of class sessions were analyzed for prompting strategies. The results indicated that DA can provide insights about the learning of typically developing students and special needs students in a prekindergarten French program. Although students with special needs required both more prompting and more practice time than typically developing students, all special needs students in this study were able to provide at least one second language response during the DA.
A high rate of HIV‐1 acquisition post immigration among migrants in Sweden determined by a CD4 T‐cell decline trajectory model
Authors: Brännström J , Sönnerborg A , Svedhem V , Neogi U , Marrone G
Published: April 2017

Objectives

There is a lack of knowledge about the extent to which migrants become HIV‐1 infected after arrival in European countries. The objective of this study was to assess the extent to which migrants to Sweden become HIV‐1 infected post immigration using a CD4 T‐cell decline trajectory model.

Methods

All migrants (n = 2268) who were ≥ 15 years old, were diagnosed with HIV‐1 infection in the period 1983−2013, had a known year of arrival in Sweden, did not have primary HIV infection and were not infected via mother‐to‐child transmission were included in the study. The CD4 T‐cell decline trajectory model was applied and estimates of HIV acquisition were compared to the clinical reports. Phylogenetic analysis was performed in a subset of patients to explore whether this would favour the model or the doctor's estimate.

Results

The model estimated 19% of individuals to have been infected after arrival in Sweden, whereas the physician's estimate was 12%. In 79% of cases the estimates agreed. Discordance was predominantly seen when the doctor estimated HIV acquisition to have occurred before arrival in Sweden, while the model estimated it to have occurred after arrival in Sweden, and this type of discordance was seen in 10% of all patients. The probability of a discordance was greater for older patients, those with a high first CD4 T‐cell count and those infected via heterosexual transmission. The phylogenetic analysis showed a higher concordance with the CD4 model than with the clinical reports (36 vs. 13%, respectively).

Conclusions

The model indicated that a substantially higher proportion of migrants are infected after arrival in Sweden than estimated using clinical routine reports. It is therefore important to further emphasize primary preventive measures among migrants who have established themselves in their new country.
Experimental type 2 diabetes induction reduces serum vaspin, but not serum omentin, in Wistar rats
Authors: Castro Cynthia Aparecida de , da Silva Karina Ana , Buffo Marina Molina , Pinto Karina Nogueira Zambone , Duarte Fernanda de Oliveira , Nonaka Keico Okino , Aníbal Fernanda de Freitas , Duarte Ana Cláudia Garcia de Oliveira
Published: April 2017

Vaspin and omentin are adipose tissue adipokines that have often been related to obesity and its comorbidities. The aim of this study was to investigate the behaviour of serum omentin and vaspin in models of type 2 diabetes. To do this, Wistar rats (~200 g) were randomly divided into two groups: a non‐diabetic group (n = 6) and a diabetic group fed on a high‐fat diet (n = 6) and a low dose of streptozotocin (Sigma®). All procedures were approved by the Brazilian Ethics Committee. Body weight (BW) and food intake were recorded daily. Tail blood glucose levels were assessed at the end of the diabetes induction period. The insulin tolerance test (ITT) was performed after the diabetes induction period (7 weeks). The serum and tissues (liver, pancreas, and retroperitoneal (RET), epididymal (EPI) and visceral (VIS) white adipose tissues) were immediately removed and weighed. Analyses of levels of insulin, omentin, vaspin, adiponectin and inflammatory cytokines IL‐6, IL‐8 (CXCL8), TNF‐α and C‐reactive protein (CRP) in serum were performed using the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Our results showed that IL‐8 and CRP serum levels in the diabetic group were significantly higher than in the non‐diabetic group. Vaspin and adiponectin values were lower for the diabetic group than for the non‐diabetic group. Omentin, IL‐6 and TNF‐α values did not differ between the groups. Our results showed that both the metabolism of the adipose tissue and the secretion of adipokines may be affected in diabetic rats. Omentin showed no difference between the groups, although the vaspin values decreased in the diabetic group.
Evaluation of two automated cell counters for the analysis of hematopoietic progenitor cell apheresis products
Authors: Gils S. , Cauwelier B. , Devos H. , Vanlaere I. , Roggeman S. , Emmerechts J.
Published: April 2017

Introduction

Routine hematology parameters in hematopoietic progenitor cell apheresis products (HPC‐A) are usually determined using automated cell counters. These instruments, however, are designed to analyze whole blood samples, that differ considerably from HPC‐A in blood cell composition. This study evaluates the performance of two automated cell counters for the analysis of HPC‐A.

Methods

Routine hematology parameters [red blood cells (RBC), hematocrit (HCT), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), white blood cells (WBC), WBC differentiation, and platelets (PLT)] were determined on the Unicel DxH 800 instrument (Beckman Coulter) and the XN‐350 instrument (Sysmex). Correlations with the reference methods, intrarun precision, and linearity of the analyses were studied.

Results

Good correlations were found for almost all parameters. However, RBC count was overestimated by XN‐350, using the impedance technique, as was neutrophil percentage using DxH 800. Coefficients of variation for intrarun precision were below 10% on both analyzers for all parameters, except for neutrophil percentage (14.7%) and PLT (10%) on DxH 800. Both instruments showed good linearity for all parameters, except for RBC and HCT on DxH 800.

Conclusion

With the exception of the measurement of neutrophils on DxH 800 and RBC by the impedance technique on the XN‐350, routine hematology parameters in HPC‐A can safely be determined using automated cell counters.
Hematologic, hepatic, and renal function changes in hospitalized patients with Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus
Authors: Al‐Tawfiq J. A. , Hinedi K. , Abbasi S. , Babiker M. , Sunji A. , Eltigani M.
Published: April 2017

Background

There are no longitudinal data on the changes in hematologic, hepatic, and renal function findings in patients with Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS‐CoV) infection.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of 16 MERS‐CoV patients, to describe the hematological, hepatic, and renal findings of patients with MERS‐CoV.

Results

During the 21 days of observation, there was no significant change in the hepatic panel or creatinine tests. There was a significant increase in the mean ± SD of the white blood cell count from 8.3 ± 4.6 to 14.53 ± 7 (P value = 0.001) and an increase in mean ± SD of the absolute neutrophil count from 6.33 ± 4.2 to 12 ± 5.5 (P value = 0.015). Leukocytosis was observed in 31% (5/16) of the patients on day 1 and in 80% (4/5) on day 21. Transient leukopenia developed in 6% (1/16) of the patients on day 1 and in 13% (1/8) on day 8. None of the patients had neutropenia. Lymphopenia was a prominent feature with a rate of 44% (7/16) of the patients on day 1 and 60% (3/5) on day 21. Lymphocytosis was not a feature of MERS‐CoV infection. Thrombocytopenia developed in 31% (5/16) of the patients on day 1 and 40% (2/5) on day 21. Thrombocytosis was not a prominent feature and was observed in 6% (1/16) of the patients on day 1 and 17% (1/6) on day 9.

Conclusions

Patients with MERS‐CoV infection showed variable hematologic parameters over time. Lymphocytosis and neutropenia were not features of MERS‐CoV infection.
Approaches for optimising intravenous iron dosing in pregnancy: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Grzeskowiak Luke E. , Qassim Alaa , Jeffries Bill , Grivell Rosalie M.
Published: April 2017

Background

Intravenous iron is commonly utilised in pregnancy when treatment with oral is not tolerated or where rapid replenishment of iron stores is required.

Aims

To examine the relationship between doses of intravenous iron administered during pregnancy according to different maternal bodyweight measures and subsequent treatment response.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of pregnant women with confirmed iron deficiency anaemia who received intravenous iron polymaltose at a tertiary teaching hospital in Australia from 1 January 2014 to 31 January 2016. Diagnosis of anaemia and/or iron deficiency, infusion dosage characteristics and haematological parameters were collected from paper‐based case notes and electronic records. The dose of intravenous iron administered was examined relative to maternal total bodyweight (TBW), ideal bodyweight (IBW) (equation = 45.5 kg + 0.9 kg/cm for each cm over 152 cm) and adjusted bodyweight (equation = IBW + [0.4 × (TBW – IBW)]).

Results

A total of 122 pregnancies was identified where women had confirmed iron deficiency anaemia and received a single infusion of intravenous iron polymaltose. Dose–response relationships were evident between change in haemoglobin from treatment until delivery and intravenous iron dose according to adjusted bodyweight (adjusted beta coefficient 0.70 (95% CI 0.24–1.15)) and pre‐pregnancy total bodyweight (adjusted beta coefficient 0.83 (95% CI 0.36–1.29)), but not ideal bodyweight (adjusted beta coefficient 0.37 (95% CI −0.04–0.78)). Calculating iron deficit using adjusted bodyweight most closely matched that based on a physiological estimate of iron deficit according to weight‐based total blood volume.

Conclusion

Optimal treatment outcomes in pregnant women requiring intravenous iron may be reached by dosing according to adjusted pre‐pregnancy bodyweight rather than ideal bodyweight.
Cements in the 21st century: Challenges, perspectives, and opportunities
Authors: Biernacki Joseph J. , Bullard Jeffrey W. , Sant Gaurav , Brown Kevin , Glasser Fredrik P. , Jones Scott , Ley Tyler , Livingston Richard , Nicoleau Luc , Olek Jan , Sanchez Florence , Shahsavari Rouzbeh , Stutzman Paul E. , Sobolev Konstantine , Prater Tracie
Published: April 2017

Since its widespread use in concrete began over 100 years ago, the chemical composition and physical properties of portland cement have changed only incrementally in response to various and competing pressures of constructability and cost. Instead, the construction demands have been met largely through the development and introduction of chemical admixtures that are added to the binder during mixing. These same demands persist into the 21st Century and are just as important now as before, yet newer driving forces are simultaneously pushing the industry both toward more automated construction and toward more sustainable concrete materials that generate lower CO2 and have longer service life. These new cement binder formulations and new construction technologies are expected to go well outside the bounds of traditional portland cement compositions and batching and placing practices. This study examines the origins of these new market demands and the influence they are having on the construction industry. Seven scientific or technological pathways are identified that will be critical for enabling the kinds of transformational changes in cement and concrete construction that the industry needs: (i) additive manufacturing, (ii) designer admixtures, (iii) curated materials data repositories, (iv) computationally designed composites, (v) big data and smart materials, (vi) alternative binder compositions, and (vii) next‐generation instrumentation.
Age‐dependent alterations in osteoblast and osteoclast activity in human cancellous bone
Authors: Becerikli Mustafa , Jaurich Henriette , Schira Jessica , Schulte Matthias , Döbele Carmen , Wallner Christoph , Abraham Stephanie , Wagner Johannes M. , Dadras Mehran , Kneser Ulrich , Lehnhardt Marcus , Behr Björn
Published: April 2017

It is assumed that the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts is decreased in bone tissue of aged individuals. However, detailed investigation of the molecular signature of human bone from young compared to aged individuals confirming this assumption is lacking. In this study, quantitative expression analysis of genes related to osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis of human cancellous bone derived from the distal radius of young and aged individuals was performed. Furthermore, we additionally performed immunohistochemical stainings. The young group included 24 individuals with an average age of 23.2 years, which was compared to cancellous bone derived from 11 body donators with an average age of 81.0 years. In cancellous bone of young individuals, the osteogenesis‐related genes RUNX‐2, OSTERIX, OSTEOPONTIN and OSTEOCALCIN were significantly up‐regulated compared to aged individuals. In addition, RANKL and NFATc1, both markers for osteoclastogenesis, were significantly induced in cancellous bone of young individuals, as well as the WNT gene family member WNT5a and the matrix metalloproteinases MMP‐9. However, quantitative RT‐PCR analysis of BMP‐2, ALP, FGF‐2, CYCLIN‐D1, MMP‐13, RANK, OSTEOPROTEGERIN and TGFb1 revealed no significant difference. Furthermore, Tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining was performed which indicated an increased osteoclast activity in cancellous bone of young individuals. In addition, pentachrome stainings revealed significantly less mineralized bone matrix, more osteoid and an increased bone density in young individuals. In summary, markers related to osteogenesis as well as osteoclastogenesis were significantly decreased in the aged individuals. Thus, the present data extends the knowledge about reduced bone regeneration and healing capacity observed in aged individuals.
Prioritizing treatment outcomes: How people with acne vulgaris decide if their treatment is working
Authors: Layton Alison M , Whitehouse Heather , Eady E Anne , Cowdell Fiona , Warburton Katharine L , Fenton Mark
Published: April 2017

Objective

To collect information about how people with acne make day‐to‐day decisions concerning the effectiveness of their treatment.

Methods

Between May and August 2013, an optional question was embedded in the James Lind Alliance Acne Priority Setting Partnership's online survey to collect treatment uncertainties. The question asked people with acne to “Tell us in your own words how you decide if your treatment has been effective.”

Results

A total of 742 respondents specified at least one outcome or means of assessing change (outcome measure). Fewer spots were the most commonly cited outcome, identified by 272 respondents (36.7%). Other frequently mentioned outcomes were in descending order: less redness (19.4%), reduction in spot size (12.1%), and less pain/discomfort (11.4%). Signs were much more commonly used than symptoms and surrogate outcomes such as changes in aspects of life quality were infrequently mentioned. Visual inspection of the skin was the most widely adopted outcome measure (16.3%).

Conclusions

Although the most frequently used methods map well onto the outcome measures adopted in the majority of acne trials, namely physician‐assessed changes in lesion counts and global acne severity, people with acne often take into account several factors that cannot be assessed by a third party at a single point in time. The minimal use of changes in psychosocial wellbeing and mood may reflect that these are regarded as secondary consequences of improvements in appearance. The robustness of these findings now requires independent evaluation. If confirmed, they could form the basis of a new patient‐reported outcome measure.
Malpractice Laws and Incentives to Shield Assets: Evidence from Nursing Homes
Authors: Brickley James A. , Lu Susan F. , Wedig Gerard J.
Published: April 2017

Empirical research on medical malpractice liability has largely ignored incentives to restructure to protect assets. This study provides evidence on asset shielding in the nursing home industry. There was a rapid increase in lawsuits alleging patient neglect or abuse in states with plaintiff‐friendly tort environments beginning in the second half of the 1990s. We document two apparent asset‐shielding trends in these states during the 1998–2004 period: (1) sales of homes by large chains to smaller, more judgment‐proof owners; and (2) a reduced propensity to “brand” chain‐owned units with names that linked them directly to the central corporation or sister units. Twelve states enacted tort reforms during the 2003–2006 period that placed caps on noneconomic damages. Using a difference‐in‐differences (DD) methodology, we find that the trends in asset‐shielding behavior abated or reversed in the states that enacted tort reforms. These findings suggest that tort law affects ownership and other organizational choices in this industry.