bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SHRIMP U–Pb age of SoriZ93 zircon from the Sori Granodiorite, Northeast Japan: a potential reference zircon of Late Cretaceous age
Authors: Ogasawara Masatsugu , Fukuyama Mayuko , Horie Kenji , Sumii Tomoaki , Takehara Mami , Sudo Masafumi
Published: August 2013

SoriZ93 zircon was separated from residual mineral fraction after the preparation of the SORI93 biotite standard from the Sori Granodiorite in the Ashio Mountains, Northeast Japan, and analyzed for its U–Pb age using a sensitive high resolution ion microprobe (SHRIMP). The zircon grains of SoriZ93 are prismatic with pyramidal ends or broken prismatic fragments. Most zircons are 100–250 μm long and 50–150 μm wide. The zircons are clear crystals and colorless to pale yellow, although some grains are brown with optically low transparency. Cathodoluminescence (CL) imaging of the SoriZ93 zircons showed a fine oscillatory zoning, which is a typical characteristic of zircons in granitic rocks. A xenocrystic core was not present in the zircons. Although some mineral inclusions were present in the zircons, it is possible to select a typical analytical area with a dimension of 30 μm necessary for the microbeam technique. The analytical results of the colorless zircons provided a weighted mean 207Pb corrected 206Pb/238U age of 93.9 ± 0.6 Ma (95% confidence, MSWD = 0.97). This 206Pb/238U age is 1.3 m.y. older than the K–Ar age of the SORI93 biotite, indicating that the granodiorite cooled to a closure temperature of the K–Ar biotite system within a short time interval. Although some grains of the SoriZ93 zircons show high U concentration, a selection of colorless zircons provided the precise age to be used for the calibration and reference for zircons of the Late Cretaceous.
Solving the puzzle of Pringleophaga – threatened, keystone detritivores in the sub‐Antarctic
Authors: Haupt Tanya M. , Crafford Jan. E. , Chown Steven L.
Published: August 2013

In the globally significant, lowland terrestrial systems of the sub‐Antarctic's South Indian Ocean Province Islands, caterpillars of the flightless moth genus Pringleophaga (Lepidoptera: Tineidae) are typically responsible for much nutrient turnover.

On Marion Island, Pringleophaga marioni is a keystone species for this reason.

Rising temperatures have led to increasing populations of introduced house mice, which, in turn, feed extensively on Pringleophaga caterpillars.

Because of the caterpillars’ keystone role, predation by mice is leading to changes in the functioning of the terrestrial system.

Given the estimates of an extended life cycle duration for P. marioni (and its congeners), that is, two to more than 5 years, an ongoing puzzle is why the species has not shown greater population declines on Marion Island than have been recorded (in some habitats 40–97% in 20 years), given extremely high estimates of predation (c. 1% of standing biomass per day).

One reason may be inaccurate previous estimates of life cycle duration for the species.

Here, we provide a new, quantitative estimate, by rearing caterpillars at different temperature regimes (5, 10, 15 and 5–15 °C), and combining these results with additional data from a prior study, to demonstrate that the life cycle duration for this species is approximately 1 year – half the previous minimum estimate.

The new quantitative data provide grounds for improved models for estimating population persistence of this species, and information for models assessing the costs and benefits of conservation interventions such as the eradication of invasive house mice.
Expanding the Content Domain of Workplace Aggression: A Three‐level Aggressor–target Taxonomy
Authors: Pinto Jonathan
Published: August 2013

Workplace aggression (WPA) has been largely considered to be a phenomenon involving individuals. However, higher‐level entities, such as groups and organizations, can also be aggressors (and targets). This aspect of WPA has not been given much scholarly attention and, even in cases where it has been studied, it has not been considered to be part of the WPA stream. By considering aggressors and targets at all three levels of analysis, the author attempts simultaneously to expand and integrate the WPA stream, draw attention to WPA involving higher‐level entities, and provide a more organization‐oriented (rather than individual‐oriented) perspective on WPA. This novel comprehensive perspective is provided through a taxonomy of nine aggressor–target combinations of WPA which can be grouped into three multilevel categories of WPA, i.e. lateral level WPA, upward level WPA, and downward level WPA. Implications for theory, research and practice of these conceptualizations are discussed.
Intravenous Thrombolysis for Acute Ischemic Stroke in the 3- to 4·5-hour Window – The Malabar Experience
Authors: Salam Kizhakkaniyakath Abdu , Ummer Karadan , Kumar Vayyattu Govindankutty Pradeep , Noone Mohan Leslie
Published: August 2013

Background

Intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator has been shown to be beneficial up to 4·5-hours of symptom onset. Aims The study aims to review our experience with thrombolysis with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator in the 3- to 4·5-hours window in acute ischemic stroke.

Settings and design

Prospective observational study of patients with acute ischemic stroke thombolysed between 3-and 4·5-hours after onset from July 2009 to October 2012 at a tertiary-care center in the Malabar region of South India.

Materials and methods

The dose of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator used was 50 mg in all patients. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were similar to European Co-operative Acute Stroke Study-3 criteria, with the exceptions that we did not use an age cutoff of 80 years and did not restrict thrombolysis for previous stroke with diabetes or elevated blood glucose levels. Statistical analysis used Good outcome was defined as a three-month modified Rankin Score of 2 or less. The chi-square test was used to compare the outcome among various subtypes of ischemic stroke. The age, blood glucose, National Institute of Health Stroke Scale Score, and time to thrombolysis were compared between groups with the nonparametric Mann–Whitney U-test.

Results

Thirty-one patients (median age 65 years, range 44–85, and median National Institute of Health Stroke Scale Score 10, range 5–22) were thrombolysed in the 3- to 4·5-hours window after stroke onset during the study period. In the first 24 h, 16 patients (52%) improved in National Institute of Health Stroke Scale Score by 4 or more points while three worsened by 4 or more points. At the three-month follow up, 15 patients (48%) were functionally independent (modified Rankin Score ⩽2). None had symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage. There was no significant difference in outcome between the various ischemic stroke sub-types. The baseline age, National Institute of Health Stroke Scale Score, blood glucose, and onset to treatment time did not differ significantly between the groups with good and poor outcome.

Conclusion

Our initial experience confirms that thrombolysis for ischemic stroke in the extended window is safe and beneficial.
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy imaging‐directed transrectal ultrasound biopsy increases prostate cancer detection in men with prostate‐specific antigen between 4–10 ng/mL and normal digital rectal examination
Authors: Javali Tarun Dilip , Dwivedi Durgesh Kumar , Kumar Rajeev , Jagannathan Naranamangalam Raghunathan , Thulkar Sanjay , Dinda Amit Kumar
Published: August 2013

Objectives

To evaluate the ability of magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging to improve prostate cancer detection rate.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was carried out of 278 men with prostate‐specific antigen in the range of 4–10 ng/mL and normal digital rectal examination who underwent transrectal ultrasound‐guided prostate biopsy. Outcomes were compared between men who had a standard biopsy versus those who also underwent a prebiopsy magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging. Men with an abnormal voxel on magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging had standard transrectal ultrasound biopsies plus biopsies directed to the abnormal voxels.

Results

The study group (n = 140) and control group (n = 138) were similar in baseline parameters, such as mean age, prostate size and mean prostate‐specific antigen. The overall cancer detection in the magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging positive group (24.4%) was more than double that of the control group (10.1%). On comparing the magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging results with the transrectal ultrasound biopsy findings, magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging had 95.6% sensitivity, 41.9% specificity, a positive predictive value of 24.4%, a negative predictive value of 98% and an accuracy of 51.4%.

Conclusions

Magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging‐directed transrectal ultrasound biopsy increases the cancer detection rate compared with standard transrectal ultrasound biopsy in patients with normal digital rectal examination and elevated prostate‐specific antigen in the range of 4–10 ng/mL.
Vaccination of healthcare workers to protect patients at increased risk of acute respiratory disease: summary of a systematic review
Authors: Dolan Gayle P. , Harris Rebecca C. , Clarkson Mandy , Sokal Rachel , Morgan Gemma , Mukaigawara Mitsuru , Horiuchi Hiroshi , Hale Rachel , Stormont Laura , Béchard‐Evans Laura , Chao Yi‐Sheng , Eremin Sergey , Martins Sara , Tam John , Peñalver Javier , Zanuzadana Arina , Nguyen‐Van‐Tam Jonathan S.
Published: August 2013

Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at increased risk of exposure to respiratory pathogens and may transmit infection to vulnerable patients. This study summarises a recent systematic review, which aimed to assess evidence that influenza or pneumococcal vaccination of HCWs provides indirect protection for those patients most at risk of severe or complicated acute respiratory infection. A number of healthcare databases and sources of grey literature were searched using a predefined strategy, and citations screened for eligibility in accordance with specified inclusion criteria. Risk of bias was assessed using validated tools and results summarised qualitatively. Twenty papers were included in the final review, all of which considered influenza vaccination of HCW. As such, planned subanalysis of pneumococcal vaccination was discarded. The majority of primary research studies included (11/14) were conducted in long‐term care facilities, but there was marked heterogeneity in terms of the population, intervention/exposure and outcomes considered. Consistency in the direction of effect was observed across several different outcome measures, suggesting that influenza vaccination of HCWs is likely to offer some protection. Further evidence is, however, required from acute care settings.
Video‐graphic study of the behaviour of juvenile Brown kiwi Apteryx mantelli females at Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Washington, DC
Authors: Wesley K. B. , Brader K.
Published: August 2013

The kiwi, indigenous to New Zealand, is a small flightless bird that is unique in the avian world. Detailed studies in kiwi behaviour are limited because of the nocturnal nature of the species. In this study, two juvenile Brown kiwi Apteryx mantelli chicks were monitored using a video camera for about 24 hours over a period of 2 months. Primarily, this study focused on the budgeting of 26 distinct behaviours during different time periods. Many of the behaviours, such as ‘feeding’, ‘drinking’ and ‘probing’, had similar totals, compared with other behaviours, such as ‘aggression’, ‘stretching body’ and ‘jumping’, which were predominantly expressed by one individual. Certain behaviours, such as ‘pacing’, ‘running’ and ‘jumping’, were often seen more frequently at certain time periods. Territoriality, including changes pertaining to the individual and their size of territory, was also noted as the observations progressed. This study provides a better understanding of the behaviour of Brown kiwi chicks in terms of budgeting different behaviours and interactions between juvenile ♀♀.
A double‐blind controlled trial of recombinant interferon‐α2b in haemodialysis patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection and abnormal aminotransferase levels
Authors: Fernández J. L. , Rendo P. , del Pino N. ,   Nephrologists' group for the study of HCV infection, Viola L.
Published: August 2013

SUMMARY. The efficacy and safety of recombinant interferon‐α2b (rIFN‐α2b) was evaluated in a double‐blind controlled trial comprising 23 haemodialysis patients with antibodies to hepatitis C virus (anti‐HCV), detectable serum HCV RNA by polymerase chain reaction and chronic alanine aminotransferase elevation. The patients were randomly assigned to receive rIFN‐α2b at a dose of 1.5 MU (increasing to 3 MU if no response was observed) (Group I: n = 14) or identical placebo (Group II: n = 9), for 6 months. A biochemical response (normal alanine aminotransferase) was observed in 10 patients (71.4%) from Group I and in one patient (11.1%) from Group II (P < 0.01) at the end of therapy, and in four patients from Group I (28.6%) and in none from Group II (NS) 12 months after therapy. Virological response (HCV RNA negative) was observed in four patients (28.6%) from Group I and in none from Group II (NS) at the end of therapy, and in two patients (14.2%) from Group I and in none from Group LT (NS) 12 months after therapy. Interferon doses were 1.5 MU in 12 patients and 3 MU in two patients. Therapy interruption owing to severe side‐effects was necessary in three patients (21.4%) from Group I and in two patients (22.2%) from Group II. Although long‐term statistical differences were not observed, these results suggest that rIFN‐α2b at a low dose is a reasonable and well tolerated therapeutic approach for haemodialysis patients with chronic hepatitis C.
Emergent neutrality or hidden niches?
Authors: Barabás György , D’Andrea Rafael , Rael Rosalyn , Meszéna Géza , Ostling Annette
Published: August 2013

Emergent neutrality is the idea in community ecology that species interactions may drive a system in a direction where some species become so similar that this similarity will be the primary cause for their coexistence instead of niche differentiation. A recent, widely cited model of emergent neutrality is by Scheffer and van Nes, later applied to species abundance distribution patterns by Vergnon et al. We take issue with the ecological interpretation of this model, demonstrating that it in fact presupposes important differences between superficially similar‐looking species. We argue that the temptation to interpret the model as one of emergent neutrality stems from the fact that these differences are unmodeled and therefore hidden, obscuring the underlying coexistence mechanisms. We therefore claim that the model is actually one of hidden niches, and present several alternative ways to make its hidden portions more explicit. These alterations to the model also make its proper interpretation as one of hidden niches more transparent. We also polemize with the claim of Vergnon et al. that multimodality in species abundance distributions is support for their emergent neutrality model: we demonstrate that appropriate stochastic versions of classical resource partitioning or even neutral models can lead to such patterns in a robust way. Observation of these patterns is therefore inconclusive as to the underlying mechanisms that generate them.
Ecological periodic tables: in principle and practice
Authors: Ferraro Steven P.
Published: August 2013

“Science is organized knowledge.” Immanuel Kant (1724–1804)

Ecological periodic tables are an information organizing system with categorical habitat types as elements and predictably recurring (periodic) properties of a target biotic community, such as its relative species richness, abundance and biomass, as attributes. Ecological periodic tables are founded on the ecological tenet that habitats structure biotic communities and its corollary that habitats are templets for ecological strategies. They are a durable, open and flexible system that accommodates all operationally defined habitat types and biotic communities for which the periodicity of habitat usage patterns by a biotic community have been empirically substantiated. Discovering quantitative, periodic habitat usage patterns requires quantitative, representative, unbiased sampling of a biotic community across habitat types at ecologically relevant temporal and spatial scales. Like chemical periodic tables, the Linnaean system of classification and the Hertzsprung–Russell diagram in chemistry, biology and astronomy, respectively, ecological periodic tables are simple, easy to understand, exceptionally useful and they foster the expansion of scientific understanding, inquiry and theory.
Links between environmental factors and hemiepiphytes along a slope of subtropical Atlantic forest
Authors: Orihuela Rodrigo Leonel Lozano , Molz Martin , Waechter Jorge Luiz
Published: August 2013

Several basic ecological aspects of hemiepiphytes, such as abundance, diversity and distribution, are still scarcely addressed in scientific papers and thus remain poorly documented. The main aim of this study was to analyse the relative importance of different environmental factors on the abundance and richness of primary hemiepiphytes, secondary hemiepiphytes and root‐climbing lianas, at three altitudinal levels in one slope of the south Brazilian Atlantic forest. Fifteen 400‐m² square sample plots within the altitudinal levels at the slope of Serra Geral in northeastern Rio Grande do Sul were defined. Abundance of species, the percentage of host trees colonized by each life form, canopy openness, soil composition and tree density were recorded for each sample plot, besides climatic variables for each altitudinal level. We sampled a total of 1994 occurrences belonging to 16 species. The three life forms showed different compositions in the three altitudinal levels and presented different intensities in their response to the analysed variables. The abundance of secondary hemiepiphytes increased up to four times from the lower to upper altitudinal levels, while root‐climbing lianas increased almost twice in the same direction, following an increase in precipitation. The species richness decreased toward the upper level for the three life forms. Our study also identifies, for the first time, significant correlations between abundance of secondary hemiepiphytes and soil composition, and also with support availability (tree density).
Cytotaxonomy of Prenanthes faberi (Compositae–Cichorieae)
Authors: Liu Ying , Ren Chen
Published: August 2013

The generic placement of Prenanthes faberi Hemsl. (Compositae–Cichorieae) has long been a controversial matter. Recent molecular phylogenetic analyses indicate its inclusion in the genus Faberia Hemsl. The present cytological investigation shows that this species has a chromosome number of 2n = 34 and a fairly symmetric karyotype consisting of 26 median centromeric (m) and 8 submedian centromeric (sm) chromosomes varying in length between 1.72–4.20 μm. The karyological characters of P. faberi are remarkably consistent with those reported previously in species of Faberia. The transference of this species to Faberia is strongly supported.
Sintering Mechanism and Microwave Dielectric Properties of Bi12TiO20 Ceramics
Authors: Jeong Byoung‐Jik , Joung Mi‐Ri , Kim Jin‐Seong , Nahm Sahn , Choi Ji‐Won , Hwang Seong‐Ju
Published: August 2013

A homogeneous Bi12TiO20 phase was developed in a specimen that was calcined at 700°C without the formation of a secondary phase. A small amount of the Bi12TiO20 phase melted during sintering and assisted the densification of the specimen. The Bi2O3 and Bi8TiO14 secondary phases were found in all specimens. All the specimens that were sintered at temperatures ≥775°C exhibited high relative densities above 98% of the theoretical density. The Q × f value of the Bi12TiO20 ceramics was influenced by the grain size. The Bi12TiO20 ceramics sintered at 800°C for 5 h showed promising microwave dielectric properties of εr = 41, Q × f = 10 400 GHz, and τf = −10.8 ppm/°C.
Validation of standard times and influencing factors during the development of the Workload Indicator for Nursing
Authors: Myny Dries , De Bacquer Dirk , Van Hecke Ann , Beeckman Dimitri , Verhaeghe Sofie , Van Goubergen Dirk
Published: August 2013

Background

A tool to assist in optimal allocation of available nursing resources is of paramount importance.

Aims

The goals of this study were as follows: (1) to determine whether the standard time values of the Belgian Nursing Minimum Dataset are a valid basis for the development of a Workload Indicator for Nursing; (2) to quantify the impact of factors that most influence nursing workload; and (3) to examine the cross‐impact of items of the Belgian Nursing Minimum Dataset.

Design

This research project is a prospective observational study with exploratory aspects.

Methods

The data for this prospective study were collected during September 2010 from a convenience sample of 23 nursing units in four hospitals in Belgium. The data collection included three parts: (1) the registration of the items of the Belgian Nursing Minimum Dataset; (2) the amount of time committed to direct patient care; and (3) analysis of variables, which influence the nursing workload at patient and unit level.

Results

The correlation coefficients for the sum of Direct and Indirect Patient Care and the Workload Indicator for Nursing‐score of the surgical, internal medicine and intensive care units were 0·85, 0·88 and 0·89 respectively. Significant differences in standard time utilization for nursing activities at the patient level are directly related to the level of mobility assistance required. Units needing significantly more time for Direct and Indirect Patient Care than predicted by the Workload Indicator for Nursing‐score had a higher mean number of complex nursing activities per patient.

Conclusions

The high correlation coefficients between the total time utilized for direct patient care and the WiN‐score indicate that the standard time values of the Belgian Nursing Minimum Dataset are valid.
Multicoloured greenbeards, bacteriocin diversity and the rock‐paper‐scissors game
Authors: Biernaskie J. M. , Gardner A. , West S. A.
Published: August 2013

Greenbeard genes identify copies of themselves in other individuals and cause their bearer to behave nepotistically towards those individuals. Bacterial toxins (bacteriocins) exemplify the greenbeard effect because producer strains carry closely linked genes for immunity, such that toxicity is limited to nonproducer strains. Bacteriocin producers can be maintained in a dynamic polymorphism, known as rock‐paper‐scissors (RPS) dynamics, with immune and susceptible strains. However, it is unclear whether and how such dynamics will be maintained in the presence of multiple toxin types (multiple beard ‘colours’). Here, we analyse strain dynamics using models of recurrent patch colonization and population growth. We find that (i) polymorphism is promoted by a small number of founding lineages per patch, strong local resource competition and the occurrence of mutations; (ii) polymorphism can be static or dynamic, depending on the intensity of local interactions and the costs of toxins and immunity; (iii) the occurrence of multiple toxins can promote RPS dynamics; and (iv) strain diversity can be maintained even when toxins differ in toxicity or lineages can exhibit multitoxicity/multi‐immunity. Overall, the factors that maintain simple RPS dynamics can also promote the coexistence of multiple toxin types (multiple beard colours), thus helping to explain the remarkable levels of bacteriocin diversity in nature. More generally, we contrast these results with the maintenance of marker diversity in genetic kin recognition.
Correlational selection does not explain the evolution of a behavioural syndrome
Authors: Han C. S. , Brooks R. C.
Published: August 2013

Correlated suites of behaviours, or behavioural syndromes, appear to be widespread, and yet few studies have explored how they arise and are maintained. One possibility holds that correlational selection can generate and maintain behavioural syndrome if certain behavioural combinations enjoy greater fitness than other combinations. Here we test this correlational selection hypothesis by comparing behavioural syndrome structure with a multivariate fitness surface based on reproductive success of male water striders. We measured the structure of a behavioural syndrome including dispersal ability, exploration behaviour, latency to remount and sex recognition sensitivity in males. We then measured the relationship between these behaviours and mating success in a range of sex ratio environments. Despite the presence of some significant correlational selection, behavioural syndrome structure was not associated with correlational selection on behaviours. Although we cannot conclusively reject the correlational selection hypothesis, our evidence suggests that correlational selection and resulting linkage disequilibrium might not be responsible for maintaining the strong correlations between behaviours. Instead, we suggest alternative ways in which this behavioural syndrome may have arisen and outline the need for physiological and quantitative genetic tests of these suggestions.
Building Materials in the Operational Phase
Authors: Nordby Anne Sigrid , Shea Andrew David
Published: August 2013

How sustainable are the various building materials, and what are the criteria for assessment? The scope of this article is to explore in what ways responsible and conscious use of materials can yield environmental benefits in buildings. In particular, it discusses how material properties related to thermal and hygroscopic mass can be utilized for achieving energy efficiency and good indoor air quality, and how these gains can be included into the context of life cycle assessment (LCA).

A case study investigates and compares carbon impacts related to three design concepts for an exterior wall: (A) concrete/rock wool; (B) wood studs/wood fiber; and (C) wood studs/hemp lime. The thermal performance of concepts B and C are modeled to comply with concept A regarding both thermal transmittance (U‐value) and dynamic heat flow (Q24h) using the design tool WUFI Pro. An environmental cost‐benefit analysis is then accomplished in four steps, regarding (1) manufacturing and transport loads, (2) carbon sequestration in plant‐based materials and recarbonation in concrete/lime, and (3 and 4) potentially reduced operational energy consumption caused by heat and moisture buffering. The input data are based on suggested values and effects found in the literature.

The summarized results show that wall A has the highest embodied carbon and the lowest carbon storage and recarbonation effects, whereas wall C2 has the lowest embodied carbon and the highest carbon storage and recarbonation effects. Regarding buffering effects, wall A has the highest potential for thermal buffering, whereas wall C has the highest potential for moisture buffering.
Characterization of a Purine Permease Family Gene OsPUP7 Involved in Growth and Development Control in Rice
Authors: Qi Zhuyun , Xiong Lizhong
Published: August 2013

In this study, PUP‐type cytokinin transporter genes were identified in rice (Oryza sativa L.). The Oryza sativa purine permease (OsPUP) family has 12 members that show similar predicted protein sequences with AtPUPs. To reveal the functions of OsPUP genes, we searched the T‐DNA mutant library of rice and found one mutant for the member OsPUP7. The T‐DNA insertion caused a new transcript that encodes a protein with 26 amino acids different from the native OsPUP7 at the C‐terminus. The mutant showed multiple phenotypic changes including increased plant height, big seeds, and delayed flowering. The mutant also showed increased sensitivity to drought and salt stresses and treatments with kinetin and abscisic acid. OsPUP7 is expressed mainly in the vascular bundle, pistil, and stamens. The measurement of cytokinins (CKs) showed that CK content in the mutant spikelets accumulated higher than that in the wild type. Moreover, uptake experiment in the yeast fcy2 mutant suggested that OsPUP7 has the ability to transport caffeine, a CK derivative. Our results indicate that the PUP transport system also exists in rice, and OsPUP7 has an important role in the transport of CK, thus affecting developmental process and stress responses.
Conductively driven, high‐thermal gradient metamorphism in the Anmatjira Range, Arunta region, central Australia
Authors: Anderson J. R. , Kelsey D. E. , Hand M. , Collins W. J.
Published: August 2013

LA–ICP–MS in situ U–Pb monazite geochronology and P–T pseudosections are combined to evaluate the timing and physical conditions of metamorphism in the SE Anmatjira Range in the Aileron Province, central Australia. All samples show age peaks at c. 1580–1555 Ma, with three of five samples showing additional discrete age peaks between c. 1700 and 1630 Ma. P–T phase diagrams calculated for garnet–sillimanite–cordierite–K‐feldspar–ilmenite–melt bearing metapelitic rocks have overlapping peak mineral assemblage stability fields at ~870–920 °C and ~6.5–7.2 kbar. P–T modelling of a fine‐grained spinel–cordierite–garnet–biotite reaction microstructure suggests retrograde P–T conditions evolved down pressure and temperature to ~3–5.5 kbar and ~610–850 °C. The combined geochronological and P–T results indicate the SE Anmatjira Range underwent high‐temperature, low‐pressure metamorphism at c. 1580–1555 Ma, and followed an apparently clockwise retrograde path. The high apparent thermal gradient necessary to produce the estimated P–T conditions does not appear to reflect decompression of high‐P assemblages, nor is there syn‐metamorphic magmatism or structural evidence for extension. Similar to previous workers, we suggest the high‐thermal gradient P–T conditions could have been achieved by heating, largely driven by high heat production from older granites in the region.
Activation of α7‐containing nicotinic receptors on astrocytes triggers AMPA receptor recruitment to glutamatergic synapses
Authors: Wang Xulong , Lippi Giordano , Carlson David M. , Berg Darwin K.
Published: August 2013

Astrocytes, an abundant form of glia, are known to promote and modulate synaptic signaling between neurons. They also express α7‐containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (α7‐nAChRs), but the functional relevance of these receptors is unknown. We show here that stimulation of α7‐nAChRs on astrocytes releases components that induce hippocampal neurons to acquire more α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors post‐synaptically at glutamatergic synapses. The increase is specific in that no change is seen in synaptic NMDA receptor clusters or other markers for glutamatergic synapses, or in markers for GABAergic synapses. Moreover, the increases in AMPA receptors on the neuron surface are accompanied by increases in the frequency of spontaneous miniature synaptic currents mediated by the receptors and increases in the ratio of evoked synaptic currents mediated by AMPA versus NMDA receptors. This suggests that stimulating α7‐nAChRs on astrocytes can convert ‘silent’ glutamatergic synapses to functional status. Astrocyte‐derived thrombospondin is necessary but not sufficient for the effect, while tumor necrosis factor‐α is sufficient but not necessary. The results identify astrocyte α7‐nAChRs as a novel pathway through which nicotinic cholinergic signaling can promote the development of glutamatergic networks, recruiting AMPA receptors to post‐synaptic sites and rendering the synapses more functional.

image

We find that activation of nicotinic receptors on astrocytes releases a component that specifically recruits AMPA receptors to glutamatergic synapses. The recruitment appears to occur preferentially at what may be ‘silent synapses’, that is, synapses that have all the components required for glutamatergic transmission (including NMDA receptors) but lack sufficient AMPA receptors to generate a response. The results are unexpected and open up new possibilities for mechanisms underlying network formation and synaptic plasticity.
THE IMPACT OF LABOR MARKET REGULATION ON EMPLOYMENT IN LOW‐INCOME COUNTRIES: A META‐ANALYSIS
Authors: Nataraj Shanthi , Perez‐Arce Francisco , Kumar Krishna B. , Srinivasan Sinduja V.
Published: August 2013

Controversy over labor market policy often centers on achieving a balance between preventing worker exploitation, and avoiding loss of productivity or employment through excessive regulation. Although the literature documenting the impact of labor market regulation on employment is extensive, there is a dearth of evidence on the impact of such policies in low‐income countries (LICs). Since it is easier for workers, especially women, to slip into the informal sector in LICs, regulations are likely to have stronger impacts on formal employment in these countries (but lower impacts on unemployment). We systematically reviewed available research from countries that are, or were until recently, LICs. Most studies document that more stringent labor regulations are associated with lower formal sector employment and higher informal sector employment. We also conducted a metaregression analysis of the impact of minimum wages on formal and informal employment. After controlling for publication bias, higher minimum wages are associated with lower formal employment and a higher share of informal workers.
Real‐World Safety and Effectiveness Outcomes of a Zotarolimus‐Eluting Stent: Final 3‐Year Report of the RESOLUTE International Study
Authors: BELARDI JORGE A. , WIDIMSKÝ PETR , NEUMANN FRANZ‐JOSEF , MAURI LAURA , ALBERTAL MARIANO ,   on Behalf of the RESOLUTE International Investigators
Published: August 2013

Objectives

We evaluated the safety and effectiveness of the Resolute™ zotarolimus‐eluting stent (R‐ZES) in real‐world clinical practice through 3 years.

Background

A randomized comparison of the R‐ZES and the XIENCE V™ everolimus‐eluting stent showed no difference in any outcomes through 3‐year follow‐up in high‐volume academic centers. RESOLUTE International is a confirmatory trial designed to evaluate the R‐ZES in real‐world clinical practice.

Methods

RESOLUTE International is a single arm, observational trial that enrolled 2,349 patients from 88 centers with only a few inclusion and exclusion criteria. The primary end‐point was the composite of cardiac death and target vessel myocardial infarction (TV‐MI) at 1 year. Secondary end‐points include target lesion failure (TLF), target vessel revascularization (TVR), and their components, and stent thrombosis (ST).

Results

At 3 years 97.2% of patients completed clinical follow‐up. The mean age was 63.4 ± 11.2 years, 77.8% were male, and 30.4% had diabetes. The average number of stents per patient was 1.6 ± 1.0; and mean stent length was 30.9 ± 20.5 mm. Dual antiplatelet therapy was used in 91.1% of patients at 1 year, 43.0% at 2 years, and 34.6% at 3 years. Cardiac death and TV‐MI occurred in 161 patients (7.0%). There were 6 (0.3%) very late ST events for a total ST rate of 1.1% through 3 years. The rates of clinically driven target lesion revascularization (TLR), TVR, and TLF were 5.7%, 7.4%, and 11.4%, respectively.

Conclusions

The safety and effectiveness of the R‐ZES through 3 years in this real‐world all‐comer study was consistent with previously reported all‐comer trials. (J Interven Cardiol 2013;26:515‐523)
The Impact of Stent Strut Porosity on Reducing Flow in Cerebral Aneurysms
Authors: Rayepalli Sagar , Gupta Rishi , Lum Chee , Majid Arshad , Koochesfahani Manoochehr
Published: August 2013

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Flow diversion techniques are increasingly used to treat cerebral aneurysms. The optimal stent porosity to achieve aneurysm obliteration would allow clinicians to treat aneurysms more effectively. We sought to determine the optimal porosity threshold in an in vitro flow model that would lead to stagnation of flow in an aneurysm.

METHODS

Using a 3‐dimensional (3‐D) sidewall aneurysm glass model and a 2‐dimensional (2‐D) cavity model, we measured the total kinetic energy (TKE) in the cavity and aneurysm using digital particle image velocimetry by adjusting for the surface area of a metal mesh across the cavity. Additionally, we assessed how a gap between the mesh and 2‐D cavity impacted circulatory patterns within a cavity.

RESULTS

In the 3‐D aneurysm model, we noted a 90.4% reduction in TKE after placement of a stent. In the 2‐D cavity model, we adjusted the porosity between 39.1% and 64.8% and noted a reduction in the TKE by 99.75% and 93.9%, respectively. When there was a gap between the mesh and entry into the cavity, unfavorable circulatory conditions occurred with the development of counterclockwise flow that had increased TKE within the cavity.

CONCLUSIONS

The current model demonstrates a method to evaluate the optimal porosity threshold to achieve thrombosis of an aneurysm as a primary modality. Moreover, a gap may occur between the stent and the aneurysm that may create unfavorable circulatory conditions by increasing flow into the aneurysm.
The effects of group psychoeducational programme on family burden in caregivers ofIranian patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Fallahi Khoshknab M. , Sheikhona M. , Rahgouy A. , Rahgozar M. , Sodagari F.
Published: August 2013

Accessible summary

This randomized‐controlled trial investigated the effect of group psychoeducation therapy on family burden in caregivers of Iranian patients with schizophrenia.

Results of this study on 71 caregivers of patients with schizophrenia showed that a 4‐week group psychoeducational programme was significantly effective in reducing family burden by more than one third.

Findings showed that group psychoeducational programme for caregiver and family of patients with schizophrenia is beneficial for reducing family burden.

This study was aimed at assessing the impact of group psychoeducation therapy on family burden in caregivers ofIranian patients with schizophrenia during the acute phase of the disease. Using a randomized‐controlled trial design, 71 caregivers of patients with schizophrenia were randomly assigned to either a 4‐week group psychoeducational programme (n= 36) or the control group (n= 35). Family burden was assessed byFamilyBurdenIndexSchedule (FBIS) at the beginning, and after a month of psychoeducation therapy as a follow‐up.FBISassesses family burden in six different dimensions with score ranging from 0 to 48, higher scores indicating higher burdens. At baseline mean,FBISscore was not significantly different between the cases and the controls. After the intervention, the mean totalFBISscore was significantly lower in the case group compared with the control group (P< 0.001). In the intervention group,FBISscore change was significant through the study in all dimensions as well as the total score (P< 0.001). A significant reduction in family burden has been achieved by implementing group psychoeducational programmes for inpatients with acute phase schizophrenia inIranian population.
Phylogeny and biogeography of Asian Schefflera (Araliaceae) based on nuclear and plastid DNA sequence data
Authors: LI Rong , WEN Jun
Published: August 2013

The phylogeny of Asian Schefflera was inferred from sequences of the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region, and six plastid regions (the ndhF gene, the trnL‐trnF region, the rps16 intron, the atpB‐rbcL intergenic spacer, the rpl16 intron, and the psbA‐trnH intergenic spacer). Phylogenetic analyses of the combined plastid and internal transcribed spacer data with parsimony and Bayesian methods strongly support the monophyly of Asian Schefflera. The genus is supported to be closely related to Heteropanax and Tetrapanax with the small tropical continental Asian genus Heteropanax as its sister. Within Asian Schefflera, four distinct subclades were identified: (i) the widely distributed Asian Heptapleurum group with no styles in the gynoecium; (ii) the main Agalma group with racemose or spicate inflorescence units with a few umbellate taxa; (iii) the Schefflera hypoleuca group; and (iv) the Schefflera heptaphylla group. In a broader phylogenetic framework of Araliaceae, Asian Schefflera is hypothesized to have originated in continental Asia at 57.41 Mya (95% high posterior density interval of 40.33–76.06 Mya) in the early Tertiary and radiated into the now SE Asia, eastern Himalaya, and E Asia at 46.11 Mya (95% high posterior density interval of 33.02–60.69 Mya). Its subsequent diversification in Asia may have been driven largely by the collision of the Indian plate with the Asian plate in the middle Eocene and the collision of the Australian margin with the Eurasian margin in the early Miocene.
AMead‐Chomsky Comparison Reveals a Set of Key Questions on the Nature of Language and Mind
Authors: Gallagher Timothy J.
Published: August 2013

The social psychologistGeorgeHerbertMead and the cognitive linguistNoamChomsky both investigated the nature of language and mind during the 20thcentury. They approached the issues broadly, pursuing both philosophical and scientific lines of reasoning and evidence. This comparative analysis ofMead andChomsky identifies fourteen questions that summarize their collective effort, and which animated much of the debate concerning language and mind in the 20thcentury. These questions continue to be relevant to 21stcentury inquiries. This paper identifies which questions have been resolved and which have not, and discusses each in the context of relevant literature. The net result is a set of questions that inform interdisciplinary‐minded inquiries today into the nature of language and mind.
Investigation of Elastic Modulus of Xanthan and Locust Bean Gum at Different Concentrations of Mixture Using Cascade Model
Authors: Gunasekaran Sundaram , Yoon Won Byong
Published: August 2013

Small amplitude oscillatory shear tests were performed to measure the elastic modulus of 1:1 xanthan–locust bean gum (X/L) mixed gels prepared with different total polymer concentrations (C = 0.1% to 3%). The critical concentration of X/L mixture was determined to be 0.15%. Based on the elasticity exponent (t) values, the concentration–modulus power–law relationship suggested the existence of two concentration regimes – a low concentration regime (0.15 ≤ C ≤ 0.5%) with tlow = 3.88 and a high concentration regime (0.5 ≤ C ≤ 3.0%) with thigh = 1.47. The elastic active network chain of X/L mixed gels was determined by the cascade model, and compared with the similar calculation based on the classical rubber elastic theory. The cascade model clearly showed the existence of nonideality parameter and enthalpic contribution to the X/L mixed gel.

Practical applications

The concentration dependence at the highest interaction might be useful for developing highly concentrated xanthan and locust bean gum mixture gels. Most studies of xanthan and locust bean gum mixtures focused only on the lower concentration regime. In this study the modulus at a higher concentration increased but eventually saturated.
Effect of Clenbuterol on Tracheal Mucociliary Transport in Horses Undergoing Simulated Long‐Distance Transportation
Authors: Norton J.L. , Jackson K. , Chen J.W. , Boston R. , Nolen‐Walston R.D.
Published: August 2013

Background

Pneumonia is observed in horses after long‐distance transportation in association with confinement of head position leading to reduction in tracheal mucociliary clearance rate (TMCR).

Hypothesis/Objectives

Clenbuterol, a beta‐2 agonist shown to increase TMCR in the horse, will ameliorate the effects of a fixed elevated head position on large airway contamination and inflammation in a model of long‐distance transportation model.

Animals

Six adult horses.

Methods

A cross‐over designed prospective study. Horses were maintained with a fixed elevated head position for 48 hours to simulate long‐distance transport, and treated with clenbuterol (0.8 μg/kg PO q12h) or a placebo starting 12 hours before simulated transportation. TMCR was measured using a charcoal clearance technique. Data were collected at baseline and 48 hours, and included TMCR, tracheal wash cytology and quantitative culture, rectal temperature, CBC, fibrinogen, and serum TNFα, IL‐10, and IL‐2 levels. There was a 18–21 day washout between study arms, and data were analyzed using regression analysis and Wilcoxon rank‐sum tests.

Results

Tracheal mucociliary clearance rate was significantly decreased after transportation in both treatment (P = .002) and placebo (P = .03) groups. There was a significant effect of treatment on TMCR, with the treatment group showing half the reduction in TMCR compared with the placebo group (P = .002). Other significant differences between before‐ and after‐transportation samples occurred for serum fibrinogen, peripheral eosinophil count, quantitative culture, tracheal bacteria, and degenerate neutrophils, though no treatment effect was found.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Treatment with clenbuterol modestly attenuates the deleterious effects of this long‐distance transportation model on tracheal mucociliary clearance.
Entry, Profit and Welfare under Asymmetric R&D Costs
Authors: Mukherjee Arijit , Ray Achintya
Published: August 2013

We show the effects of entry of a new firm on the profits and welfare when the firms share the same initial cost of production but differ in terms of the costs of undertaking R&D. Considering a Cournot oligopoly model with innovation and linear demand and production costs, we show that entry reduces the profits of the incumbent firms and it can be welfare reducing.
Decentralization, Incentive Contracts and the Effect of Distortions in Performance Measures
Authors: Melkonyan Tigran
Published: August 2013

A model endogenizing authority over decisions and incentive contracts is developed. In addition to motivating the agent to exert effort, the principal is concerned about some non‐contractible decision that is chosen simultaneously with the agent's effort. The choice of this decision affects both the performance measure and the principal's objective. We consider two allocations of authority to make this decision; principal and agent authority. The choice of authority structure affects the incentive contract, which together with authority structure, affects the agent's effort. We determine the optimal authority structure and incentive contract and how they are affected by different factors.