bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
End-organ consequences of the Fontan operation: liver fibrosis, protein-losing enteropathy and plastic bronchitis
Authors: Rychik Jack , Goldberg David , Rand Elizabeth , Semeao Edisio , Russo Pierre , Dori Yoav , Dodds Kathryn
Published: January 2014

The Fontan operation, although part of a life-saving surgical strategy, manifests a variety of end-organ complications and unique morbidities that are being recognised with increasing frequency as patients survive into their second and third decades of life and beyond. Liver fibrosis, protein-losing enteropathy and plastic bronchitis are consequences of a complex physiology involving circulatory insufficiency, inflammation and lymphatic derangement. These conditions are manifest in a chronic, indolent state. Management strategies are emerging, which shed some light on the origins of these complications. A better characterisation of the end-organ consequences of the Fontan circulation is necessary, which can then allow for development of specific methods for treatment. Ideally, the goal is to establish systematic strategies that might reduce or eliminate the development of these potentially life-threatening challenges.
Tetralogy of Fallot: nosological, morphological, and morphogenetic considerations
Authors: Anderson Robert H. , Spicer Diane E. , Giroud Jorge M. , Mohun Timothy J.
Published: January 2014

It is timely, in the 125th anniversary of the initial description by Fallot of the hearts most frequently seen in patients presenting with “la maladie bleu”, that we revisit his descriptions, and discuss his findings in the light of ongoing controversies. Fallot described three hearts in his initial publication, and pointed to the same tetralogy of morphological features that we recognise today, namely, an interventricular communication, biventricular connection of the aorta, subpulmonary stenosis, and right ventricular hypertrophy. In one of the hearts, he noted that the aorta arose exclusively from the right ventricle. In other words, one of his initial cases exhibited double-outlet right ventricle. When we now compare findings in hearts with the features of the tetralogy, we can observe significant variations in the nature of the borders of the plane of deficient ventricular septation when viewed from the aspect of the right ventricle. We also find that this plane, usually described as the ventricular septal defect, is not the same as the geometric plane separating the cavities of the right and left ventricles. This means that the latter plane, the interventricular communication, is not necessarily the same as the ventricular septal defect. We are now able to provide further insights into these features by examining hearts prepared from developing mice. Additional molecular investigations will be required, however, to uncover the mechanisms responsible for producing the morphological changes underscoring tetralogy of Fallot.
Surgical pulmonary valve insertion
Authors: Lee Cheul , Lee Chang-Ha , Kwak Jae Gun
Published: January 2014

Pulmonary valve replacement is being performed with increasing frequency in patients with various congenital heart diseases. Chronic pulmonary regurgitation after repair of tetralogy of Fallot is a typical situation that requires pulmonary valve replacement. Chronic pulmonary regurgitation after repair of tetralogy of Fallot can lead to right ventricular dilatation, biventricular dysfunction, heart failure symptoms, arrhythmias, and sudden death. Although pulmonary valve replacement can lead to improvement in functional class and a substantial decrease or normalisation of right ventricular volumes, the optimal timing of pulmonary valve replacement in patients with chronic pulmonary regurgitation is still unknown. There are several options for surgical pulmonary valve replacement. However, no ideal pulmonary valve substitute exists currently and most of the surgically implanted pulmonary valves will eventually require re-replacement. This article will review options and timing of surgical pulmonary valve insertion in patients with chronic pulmonary regurgitation after repair of tetralogy of Fallot.
The importance of small for gestational age in the risk assessment of infants with critical congenital heart disease
Authors: Sochet Anthony A. , Ayers Mark , Quezada Emilio , Braley Katherine , Leshko Jennifer , Amankwah Ernest K. , Quintessenza James A. , Jacobs Jeffrey P. , Dadlani Gul
Published: January 2014

Background

Infants with critical congenital heart disease who require cardiothoracic surgical intervention may have significant post-operative mortality and morbidity. Infants who are small for gestational age <10th percentile with foetal growth restriction may have end-organ dysfunction that may predispose them to increased morbidity or mortality.

Methods

A single-institution retrospective review was performed in 230 infants with congenital heart disease who had cardiothoracic surgical intervention <60 days of age. Pre-, peri-, and post-operative morbidity and mortality markers were collected along with demographics and anthropometric measurements.

Results

There were 230 infants, 57 (23.3%) small for gestational age and 173 (70.6%) appropriate for gestational age. No significant difference was noted in pre-operative markers – gestational age, age at surgery, corrected gestational age, Society for Thoracic Surgeons and European Association for Cardiothoracic Surgery mortality score; or post-operative factors – length of stay, ventilation days, arrhythmias, need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, vocal cord dysfunction, hearing loss; or end-organ dysfunction – gastro-intestinal, renal, central nervous system, or genetic. Small for gestational age infants were more likely to have failed vision tests (p = 0.006). Small for gestational age infants were more likely to have increased 30-day (p = 0.005) and discharge mortality (p = 0.035). Small for gestational age infants with normal birth weight (>2500 g) were also at increased risk of 30-day mortality compared with appropriate for gestational age infants (p = 0.045).

Conclusions

Small for gestational age infants with congenital heart disease who undergo cardiothoracic surgery <60 days of age have increased risk of mortality and failed vision screening. Assessment of foetal growth restriction as part of routine pre-operative screening may be beneficial.
Host-specificity among abundant and rare taxa in the sponge microbiome
Authors: Reveillaud Julie , Maignien Loïs , Eren A Murat , Huber Julie A , Apprill Amy , Sogin Mitchell L , Vanreusel Ann
Published: January 2014

Microbial communities have a key role in the physiology of the sponge host, and it is therefore essential to understand the stability and specificity of sponge–symbiont associations. Host-specific bacterial associations spanning large geographic distance are widely acknowledged in sponges. However, the full spectrum of specificity remains unclear. In particular, it is not known whether closely related sponges host similar or very different microbiota over wide bathymetric and geographic gradients, and whether specific associations extend to the rare members of the sponge microbiome. Using the ultra-deep Illumina sequencing technology, we conducted a comparison of sponge bacterial communities in seven closely related Hexadella species with a well-resolved host phylogeny, as well as of a distantly related sponge Mycale. These samples spanned unprecedentedly large bathymetric (15–960 m) gradients and varying European locations. In addition, this study included a bacterial community analysis of the local background seawater for both Mycale and the widespread deep-sea taxa Hexadella cf. dedritifera. We observed a striking diversity of microbes associated with the sponges, spanning 47 bacterial phyla. The data did not reveal any Hexadella microbiota co-speciation pattern, but confirmed sponge-specific and species-specific host–bacteria associations, even within extremely low abundant taxa. Oligotyping analysis also revealed differential enrichment preferences of closely related Nitrospira members in closely related sponges species. Overall, these results demonstrate highly diverse, remarkably specific and stable sponge–bacteria associations that extend to members of the rare biosphere at a very fine phylogenetic scale, over significant geographic and bathymetric gradients.
In-syringe ionic liquid dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction for the determination of sulfonamides in blood using high-performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Yu Wei , Liu Zhongling , Cui Shusen , Zhang Shaohua , Yang Xiao , Lei Lei , Zhang Hanqi , Yu Aimin
Published: January 2014

In-syringe ionic liquid dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction was developed and applied for the extraction of sulfonamides in blood.
Discrimination of Pterocephalus hookeri collected at flowering and non-flowering stages using GC-MS-based fatty acid profiling
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Jing , Su Huanxing , He Cheng-Wei , Wang Yi-Tao , Yang Feng-Qing , Wan Jian-Bo
Published: January 2014

Herbal medicine harvested at different growth stage affects its quality and efficiency.
Determination of histamine H2 receptor antagonists in pharmaceutical formulations by CE-MS
Authors: Berzas Nevado Juan José , Peñalvo Gregorio Castañeda , Rodríguez Dorado Rosa Ma , Robledo Virginia Rodríguez
Published: January 2014

A simple, fast and new method for the qualitative and quantitative determination of histamine H2 receptor antagonists by using capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) coupled to electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometry (MS) has been developed.
Application of a simple and rapid LC-MS/MS method for determination of danshensu in human plasma for an oral pharmacokinetic study of Danshen granules in Chinese healthy subjects
Authors: Fu Shujun , Li Lifeng , Qiu Feng , Wang Baohe , Du Wuxun , Feng Limin
Published: January 2014

A simple and rapid LC-ESI-MS method is developed and validated for the determination of danshensu in plasma of Chinese healthy subjects after oral administration of Danshen granules..
Real-time materials evolution visualized within intact cycling alkaline batteries
Authors: Gallaway Joshua W. , Erdonmez Can K. , Zhong Zhong , Croft Mark , Sviridov Lev A. , Sholklapper Tal Z. , Turney Damon E. , Banerjee Sanjoy , Steingart Daniel A.
Published: January 2014

Deeply penetrating white beam X-rays are used to detect zinc oxide precipitation in cycling alkaline batteries in real time.
Delineating cooperative responses of processive motors in living cells
Authors: Efremov Artem K. , Radhakrishnan Anand , Tsao David S. , Bookwalter Carol S. , Trybus Kathleen M. , Diehl Michael R.
Published: January 2014

Significance

Although many vesicles and organelles are known to be transported by groups of interacting cytoskeletal motors, the precise impact of collective motor behaviors on intracellular transport and trafficking processes remains controversial. By engineering COS-7 cells to provide genetic control over the density of motors on, and the sizes of vesicles (peroxisomes), we performed systematic comparisons of the collective behaviors of kinesin and myosinVa motors. The responses of cargo velocities, run lengths, and position fluctuations to these parameters suggest that myosinVa motors can cooperate more productively than kinesins when transporting cargos as a team. This behavior is derived from the mechanochemical properties of these motors and suggests that the collective functions of motors like myosinV can be regulated more sensitively than those of kinesin.
The spindle and kinetochore–associated (Ska) complex enhances binding of the anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C) to chromosomes and promotes mitotic exit
Authors: Sivakumar Sushama , Daum John R. , Tipton Aaron R. , Rankin Susannah , Gorbsky Gary J.
Published: January 2014

The spindle and kinetochore–associated (Ska) protein complex is a heterotrimeric complex required for timely anaphase onset. The major phenotypes seen after small interfering RNA–mediated depletion of Ska are transient alignment defects followed by metaphase arrest that ultimately results in cohesion fatigue. We find that cells depleted of Ska3 arrest at metaphase with only partial degradation of cyclin B1 and securin. In cells arrested with microtubule drugs, Ska3-depleted cells exhibit slower mitotic exit when the spindle checkpoint is silenced by inhibition of the checkpoint kinase, Mps1, or when cells are forced to exit mitosis downstream of checkpoint silencing by inactivation of Cdk1. These results suggest that in addition to a role in fostering kinetochore–microtubule attachment and chromosome alignment, the Ska complex has functions in promoting anaphase onset. We find that both Ska3 and microtubules promote chromosome association of the anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C). Chromosome-bound APC/C shows significantly stronger ubiquitylation activity than cytoplasmic APC/C. Forced localization of Ska complex to kinetochores, independent of microtubules, results in enhanced accumulation of APC/C on chromosomes and accelerated cyclin B1 degradation during induced mitotic exit. We propose that a Ska-microtubule-kinetochore association promotes APC/C localization to chromosomes, thereby enhancing anaphase onset and mitotic exit.
Prediction of therapeutic microRNA based on the human metabolic network
Authors: Wu Ming , Chan Christina
Published: January 2014

Motivation: MicroRNA (miRNA) expression has been found to be deregulated in human cancer, contributing, in part, to the interest of the research community in using miRNAs as alternative therapeutic targets. Although miRNAs could be potential targets, identifying which miRNAs to target for a particular type of cancer has been difficult due to the limited knowledge on their regulatory roles in cancer. We address this challenge by integrating miRNA-target prediction, metabolic modeling and context-specific gene expression data to predict therapeutic miRNAs that could reduce the growth of cancer.

Results: We developed a novel approach to simulate a condition-specific metabolic system for human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) wherein overexpression of each miRNA was simulated to predict their ability to reduce cancer cell growth. Our approach achieved >80% accuracy in predicting the miRNAs that could suppress metastasis and progression of liver cancer based on various experimental evidences in the literature. This condition-specific metabolic system provides a framework to explore the mechanisms by which miRNAs modulate metabolic functions to affect cancer growth. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first computational approach implemented to predict therapeutic miRNAs for human cancer based on their functional role in cancer metabolism. Analyzing the metabolic functions altered by the miRNA-identified metabolic genes essential for cell growth and proliferation that are targeted by the miRNAs.

Availability and implementation: See supplementary protocols and http://www.egr.msu.edu/changroup/Protocols%20Index.html.

Contact:  krischan@egr.msu.edu

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
The family name Solimonadaceae Losey et al. 2013 is illegitimate, proposals to create the names ‘Sinobacter soli’ comb. nov. and ‘Sinobacter variicoloris’ contravene the Code, the family name Xanthomonadaceae Saddler and Bradbury 2005 and the order name Xanthomonadales Saddler and Bradbury 2005 are illegitimate and notes on the application of the family names Solibacteraceae Zhou et al. 2008, Nevskiaceae Henrici and Johnson 1935 (Approved Lists 1980) and Lysobacteraceae Christensen and Cook 1978 (Approved Lists 1980) and order name Lysobacteriales Christensen and Cook 1978 (Approved Lists 1980) with respect to the classification of the corresponding type genera Solibacter Zhou et al. 2008, Nevskia Famintzin 1892 (Approved Lists 1980) and Lysobacter Christensen and Cook 1978 (Approved Lists 1980) and importance of accurately expressing the link between a taxonomic name, its authors and the corresponding description/circumscription/emendation
Authors: Tindall B. J.
Published: January 2014

In a recent publication the name

Solimonadaceae

Losey et al. 2013 has been proposed as a replacement name for the family name

Sinobacteraceae

Zhou et al. 2008. This course of action contravenes the current Code governing the nomenclature of prokaryotes, making

Solimonadaceae

Losey et al. 2013 an illegitimate name that neither has claim to priority nor can be used as a correct name. Closer examination of publications dealing with the taxonomy of members of the genera

Solimonas

and

Sinobacter

and the placement of these taxa at the rank of family and order reveal problems associated with the application of the family names

Sinobacteraceae

Zhou et al. 2008,

Nevskiaceae

Henrici and Johnson 1935 (Approved Lists 1980) and

Lysobacteraceae

Christensen and Cook 1978 (Approved Lists 1980) and the order names

Lysobacterales

Christensen and Cook 1978 (Approved Lists 1980) and

Xanthomonadales

Saddler and Bradbury 2005.
Conservation of Rhodococcus equi (Magnusson 1923) Goodfellow and Alderson 1977 and rejection of Corynebacterium hoagii (Morse 1912) Eberson 1918
Authors: Garrity George M.
Published: January 2014

A recent review of the nomenclatural history of

Rhodococcus equi

and its heterotypic synonyms reveals a situation in which the strict application of the Rules of the International Code of Nomenclature of Prokaryotes have resulted in the renaming of this known zoonotic pathogen, which may be reasonably viewed as a perilous name. This situation can be remedied only by the Judicial Commission rendering an opinion to conserve the name

Rhodococcus equi

and to reject its earlier heterotypic synonym,

Corynebacterium hoagii

.
Mad1 kinetochore recruitment by Mps1-mediated phosphorylation of Bub1 signals the spindle checkpoint
Authors: London Nitobe , Biggins Sue
Published: January 2014

The spindle checkpoint is a conserved signaling pathway that ensures genomic integrity by preventing cell division when chromosomes are not correctly attached to the spindle. Checkpoint activation depends on the hierarchical recruitment of checkpoint proteins to generate a catalytic platform at the kinetochore. Although Mad1 kinetochore localization is the key regulatory downstream event in this cascade, its receptor and mechanism of recruitment have not been conclusively identified. Here, we demonstrate that Mad1 kinetochore association in budding yeast is mediated by phosphorylation of a region within the Bub1 checkpoint protein by the conserved protein kinase Mps1. Tethering this region of Bub1 to kinetochores bypasses the checkpoint requirement for Mps1-mediated kinetochore recruitment of upstream checkpoint proteins. The Mad1 interaction with Bub1 and kinetochores can be reconstituted in the presence of Mps1 and Mad2. Together, this work reveals a critical mechanism that determines kinetochore activation of the spindle checkpoint.
H2A.B facilitates transcription elongation at methylated CpG loci
Authors: Chen Yibin , Chen Qiang , McEachin Richard C. , Cavalcoli James D. , Yu Xiaochun
Published: January 2014

H2A.B is a unique histone H2A variant that only exists in mammals. Here we found that H2A.B is ubiquitously expressed in major organs. Genome-wide analysis of H2A.B in mouse ES cells shows that H2A.B is associated with methylated DNA in gene body regions. Moreover, H2A.B-enriched gene loci are actively transcribed. One typical example is that H2A.B is enriched in a set of differentially methylated regions at imprinted loci and facilitates transcription elongation. These results suggest that H2A.B positively regulates transcription elongation by overcoming DNA methylation in the transcribed region. It provides a novel mechanism by which transcription is regulated at DNA hypermethylated regions.
Randomized double‐blind study of the effect of dexamethasone and methylprednisolone pulse in the control of rheumatoid arthritis flare‐up: a preliminary study
Authors: Sadra Vahideh , Khabbazi Alireza , Kolahi Susan , Hajialiloo Mehrzad , Ghojazadeh Morteza
Published: January 2014

Aim

The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of dexamethasone and methylprednisolone for pulse therapy of rheumatoid arthritis flare‐up.

Methods

This randomized double‐blind controlled study was performed in the Emam Reza Educational Hospital of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. Thirty rheumatoid arthritis patients who had severely active disease were recruited to the dexamethasone and methylprednisolone pulse groups. Disease activity of all the patients was measured by the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28) at baseline, and days 4 and 30.

Results

The differences in the DAS28 at days 4 and 30, and the number of patients whose DAS28 obtained less than 3.2 and 2.6 in the dexamethasone and methylprednisolone groups were non‐significant. There was not any significant difference between the adverse effects of the treatments in the two groups.

Conclusions

The results of the study suggest that dexamethasone pulse therapy is a safe and effective treatment for severe rheumatoid arthritis flare‐up.
Prospective phase II study of cisplatin plus pemetrexed with maintenance of pemetrexed for advanced non‐squamous cell non‐small cell lung cancer in Japan
Authors: Asami Kazuhiro , Kawahara Masaaki , Hirashima Tomonori , Suzuki Hidekazu , Okishio Kyoichi , Omachi Naoki , Tamiya Motohiro , Tamiya Akihiro , Hirooka Aya , Nakao Keiko , Tsuji Taisuke , Atagi Shinji
Published: January 2014

Background

A previous study showed a survival benefit with maintenance therapy with pemetrexed in patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, it remains unclear whether continuation maintenance therapy with pemetrexed is beneficial in Japanese patients. Here, we present our phase II study that assessed the efficacy and safety of cisplatin plus pemetrexed as induction chemotherapy, followed by maintenance therapy with pemetrexed in advanced NSCLC patients in Japan.

Methods

Chemotherapy‐naïve patients received 500 mg/m2 pemetrexed and 75 mg/m2 cisplatin on day one every three weeks for four cycles. In patients who responded to therapy or achieved stable disease, pemetrexed was continued until disease progression. The primary endpoint of this study was the progression‐free survival rate at six months (PFS‐6).

Results

Of the 35 patients initially enrolled in the study, 18 (51%) received maintenance chemotherapy with pemetrexed. The median PFS was 6.7 months, and the PFS‐6 was 60% (95% confidence interval [CI], 42–76%). Median overall survival (OS) was 15.5 months (95% CI, 8.3–22.7 months). The median PFS and OS in patients who received maintenance chemotherapy with pemetrexed were 9.5 months and 25.3 months, respectively. The most frequently noted severe toxicity during induction chemotherapy was neutropenia, which occurred in seven patients. Two patients discontinued maintenance therapy owing to prolonged grade 2 edema in one patient and grade 3 neutropenia in another.

Conclusion

Continuation maintenance chemotherapy with pemetrexed is associated with a survival benefit in patients who have completed induction chemotherapy for non‐squamous NSCLC.
The Effects of Non‐Expensed Employee Stock Bonus on Firm Performance: Evidence from Taiwanese High‐Tech Firms
Authors: Liu Nien‐Chi , Chen Ming‐Yuan , Wang Mei‐Ling
Published: January 2014

The choice of whether to expense broad‐based stock incentives has been a highly controversial debate in both academic research and practice circles. We provide insightful findings to reconcile certain debates regarding the effectiveness of non‐expensed, broad‐based stock incentives. Using a unique longitudinal dataset from Taiwanese high‐tech firms over the 1997–2008 period, our results indicate that non‐expensed employee stock bonus incentives exerted positive effects on short‐term organizational value added creation. The dilution effects of broad‐based stock incentives in Taiwan, however, exerted a negative influence on profitability and eroded share return. The negative effects were even more severe in the following year, and overexploitation of employee stock bonus also damaged the long‐term organizational performance of Taiwanese high‐tech firms. This negative aspect of non‐expensed employee stock incentives resulted in more evidence for changing the regulatory context of broad‐based stock incentives in Taiwan.
Discovery of Novel Inhibitors of HIV‐1 Reverse Transcriptase Through Virtual Screening of Experimental and Theoretical Ensembles
Authors: Ivetac Anthony , Swift Sara E. , Boyer Paul L. , Diaz Arturo , Naughton John , Young John A. T. , Hughes Stephen H. , McCammon J. Andrew
Published: January 2014

Non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) are potent anti‐HIV chemotherapeutics. Although there are FDA‐approved NNRTIs, challenges such as the development of resistance have limited their utility. Here, we describe the identification of novel NNRTIs through a combination of computational and experimental approaches. Based on the known plasticity of the NNRTI binding pocket (NNIBP), we adopted an ensemble‐based virtual screening strategy: coupling receptor conformations from 10 X‐ray crystal structures with 120 snapshots from a total of 480 ns of molecular dynamics (MD) trajectories. A screening library of 2864 National Cancer Institute (NCI) compounds was built and docked against the ensembles in a hierarchical fashion. Sixteen diverse compounds were tested for their ability to block HIV infection in human tissue cultures using a luciferase‐based reporter assay. Three promising compounds were further characterized, using a HIV‐1 RT‐based polymerase assay, to determine the specific mechanism of inhibition. We found that 2 of the three compounds inhibited the polymerase activity of RT (with potency similar to the positive control, the FDA‐approved drug nevirapine). Through a computational approach, we were able to discover two compounds which inhibit HIV replication and block the activity of RT, thus offering the potential for optimization into mature inhibitors.
Predictors of behavioural problems in foster children: the key role of impulsivity
Authors: Salas Maria D. , Fuentes Maria J. , Bernedo Isabel M. , García‐Martín Miguel A.
Published: January 2014

Although several variables have been reported to be associated with behavioural problems in foster children, few studies have sought to establish more precisely the extent to which these variables may explain problematic behaviour. The main aim of this study is to determine the extent to which certain variables may predict behavioural problems shown by foster children. Participants included 104 foster children and their respective foster families. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that the following variables predict behavioural problems in foster children: impulsivity/attention deficit in the child, level of burden in the foster carers, rigid or authoritarian parental discipline, and criticism/rejection by the foster parents. The model explained 46% of the variance in behaviour problems, with the greatest predictive power (29%) corresponding to the variable ‘impulsivity/attention deficit’. The results show that impulsivity/attention deficit is the most powerful predictor of behavioural problems in foster children. This is consistent with the findings of various studies that have reported an association between a lack of inhibitory control and problematic behaviour.
Risk of Local Extinction of Odonata Freshwater Habitat Generalists and Specialists
Authors: SUHONEN JUKKA , KORKEAMÄKI ESA , SALMELA JUKKA , KUITUNEN MARKKU
Published: January 2014

Understanding the risk of a local extinction in a single population relative to the habitat requirements of a species is important in both theoretical and applied ecology. Local extinction risk depends on several factors, such as habitat requirements, range size of species, and habitat quality. We studied the local extinctions among 31 dragonfly and damselfly species from 1930 to 1975 and from 1995 to 2003 in Central Finland. We tested whether habitat specialists had a higher local extinction rate than generalist species. Approximately 30% of the local dragonfly and damselfly populations were extirpated during the 2 study periods. The size of the geographical range of the species was negatively related to extinction rate of the local populations. In contrast to our prediction, the specialist species had lower local extinction rates than the generalist species, probably because generalist species occurred in both low‐ and high‐quality habitat. Our results are consistent with source–sink theory.

Riesgo de Extinción Local de Odonatos de Agua Dulce Generalistas y Especialistas de Hábitat
Empirical Trials of Plant Field Guides
Authors: HAWTHORNE W. D. , CABLE S. , MARSHALL C. A. M.
Published: January 2014

We designed 3 image‐based field guides to tropical forest plant species in Ghana, Grenada, and Cameroon and tested them with 1095 local residents and 20 botanists in the United Kingdom. We compared users’ identification accuracy with different image formats, including drawings, specimen photos, living plant photos, and paintings. We compared users’ accuracy with the guides to their accuracy with only their prior knowledge of the flora. We asked respondents to score each format for usability, beauty, and how much they would pay for it. Prior knowledge of plant names was generally low (<22%). With a few exceptions, identification accuracy did not differ significantly among image formats. In Cameroon, users identifying sterile Cola species achieved 46–56% accuracy across formats; identification was most accurate with living plant photos. Botanists in the United Kingdom accurately identified 82–93% of the same Cameroonian species; identification was most accurate with specimens. In Grenada, users accurately identified 74–82% of plants; drawings yielded significantly less accurate identifications than paintings and photos of living plants. In Ghana, users accurately identified 85% of plants. Digital color photos of living plants ranked high for beauty, usability, and what users would pay. Black and white drawings ranked low. Our results show the potential and limitations of the use of field guides and nonspecialists to identify plants, for example, in conservation applications. We recommend authors of plant field guides use the cheapest or easiest illustration format because image type had limited bearing on accuracy; match the type of illustration to the most likely use of the guide for slight improvements in accuracy; avoid black and white formats unless the audience is experienced at interpreting illustrations or keeping costs low is imperative; discourage false‐positive identifications, which were common; and encourage users to ask an expert or use a herbarium for groups that are difficult to identify.

Pruebas Empíricas de Guías de Campo de Plantas Hawthorne, Cable & Marshall
The Rockefeller University Navigation Program: A Structured Multidisciplinary Protocol Development and Educational Program to Advance Translational Research
Authors: Brassil Donna , Kost Rhonda G. , Dowd Kathleen A. , Hurley Arlene M. , Rainer Tyler‐Lauren , Coller Barry S.
Published: January 2014

The development of translational clinical research protocols is complex. To assist investigators, we developed a structured supportive guidance process (Navigation) to expedite protocol development to the standards of good clinical practice (GCP), focusing on research ethics and integrity. Navigation consists of experienced research coordinators leading investigators through a concerted multistep protocol development process from concept initiation to submission of the final protocol. To assess the effectiveness of Navigation, we collect data on the experience of investigators, the intensity of support required for protocol development, IRB review outcomes, and protocol start and completion dates. One hundred forty‐four protocols underwent Navigation and achieved IRB approval since the program began in 2007, including 37 led by trainee investigators, 26 led by MDs, 9 by MD/PhDs, 57 by PhDs, and 12 by investigators with other credentials (e.g., RN, MPH). In every year, more than 50% of Navigated protocols were approved by the IRB within 30 days. For trainees who had more than one protocol navigated, the intensity of Navigation support required decreased over time. Navigation can increase access to translational studies for basic scientists, facilitate GCP training for investigators, and accelerate development and approval of protocols of high ethical and scientific quality.
Community Member and Faith Leader Perspectives on the Process of Building Trusting Relationships between Communities and Researchers
Authors: Lakes Kimberley D. , Vaughan Elaine , Pham Jennifer , Tran Tuyet , Jones Marissa , Baker Dean , Swanson James M. , Olshansky Ellen
Published: January 2014

In the first phase of this research, we conducted, audio‐recorded, and transcribed seven focus groups with more than 50 English‐ or Spanish‐speaking women of childbearing age. Qualitative analysis revealed the following themes: (1) expectation that participation would involve relationships based on trust that is built over time and impacted by cultural factors; (2) perceived characteristics of research staff that would help facilitate the development of trusting relationships; (3) perceptions about the location of the visits that may affect trust; (4) perceptions of a research study and trust for the institution conducting the study may affect trust; (5) connecting the study to larger communities, including faith communities, could affect trust and willingness to participate. In the second phase of this research, we conducted, recorded, transcribed, and analyzed interviews with leaders from diverse faith communities to explore the potential for research partnerships between researchers and faith communities. In addition to confirming themes identified in focus groups, faith leaders described an openness to research partnerships between the university and faith communities and considerations for the formation of these partnerships. Faith leaders noted the importance of finding common ground with researchers, establishing and maintaining trusting relationships, and committing to open, bidirectional communication.
‘Constructing’ Ethical Mineral Supply Chains in Sub‐Saharan Africa: The Case of Malawian Fair Trade Rubies
Authors: Hilson Gavin
Published: January 2014

Over the past decade, sales of Fair Trade agro‐products have risen sharply, fuelled by innovative marketing campaigns that use imagery to ‘connect’ Western consumers to impoverished farmers in developing countries. The success of Fair Trade has led to speculation over whether its portfolio could be broadened to include non‐agricultural products, a debate which, in recent years, has focused heavily on the precious minerals and stones being extracted by impoverished artisans. A lack of policy oversight, however, has resulted in Fair Trade being interpreted very differently in this context. In the absence of certified, internationally‐recognized guidelines for the implementation of Fair Trade mineral schemes, designers have drawn inspiration from a global mining development agenda that has become preoccupied with anti‐corruption and traceability. This article draws on the case of Malawi's NyalaTM ruby, described as a ‘Fair Trade Gem’ by its supplier, to illustrate how ethical mineral programmes are potentially being misbranded as Fair Trade. Although the scheme delivering NyalaTM ruby to markets is supplying a traceable commodity, in the process helping to alleviate consumers’ concerns about conflict minerals, it seems to be providing very little benefit to poor producers — the primary objective of Fair Trade.
Selling Maize in Mexico: The Persistence of Peasant Farming in an Era of Global Markets
Authors: Eakin Hallie , Perales Hugo , Appendini Kirsten , Sweeney Stuart
Published: January 2014

The last decade of the twentieth century was heralded as the ‘end of agrarian reform’ in Mexico and the initiation of a new era of market‐led agricultural policy and practice. The impact of neoliberalism and the North American Free Trade Agreement on smallholder maize production has been widely conceived as negative, associated with ecological degradation, rural emigration and cultural erosion. Yet, some twenty years later, all evidence suggests that smallholder maize production is continuing in Mexico, albeit in evolving structures and forms. This article uses a farm‐level survey implemented in three Mexican states to assess the current condition of maize farming in Mexico. The authors revisit past categorizations of Mexican farmers and apply similar approaches to explore what maize‐producing households are doing with their maize, and what current patterns of production imply for future Mexican maize policy. They find evidence of greater persistence and adaptability in Mexican maize farming than is often presented. On the basis of their analysis, they advocate for a reconsideration of the underlying assumptions of public policy, highlighting the heterogeneity of the maize landscape and the unrealized and generally unrecognized potential this heterogeneity represents.
Sorption and desorption characteristics of organic phosphates of different structures on aluminium (oxyhydr)oxides
Authors: Yan Y. P. , Liu F. , Li W. , Liu F. , Feng X. H. , Sparks D. L.
Published: January 2014

Sorption and desorption characteristics of four organic phosphates (OPs) with different molecular sizes and structures (glycerophosphate, GP; glucose‐6‐phosphate, G6P; adenosine triphosphate, ATP; myo‐inositol hexakisphosphate, IHP) and inorganic phosphate (Pi) on three aluminium (Al) (oxyhydr)oxides (amorphous Al(OH)3, boehmite and α‐Al2O3) were investigated. The maximum sorption amounts of OPs and Pi increased with decreasing crystallinity of the minerals on a per mass basis: α‐Al2O3 < boehmite < amorphous Al(OH)3. With an exception of IHP sorption on amorphous Al(OH)3, the maximum surface area‐based sorption densities increased with decreasing molecular weight (MW) of OPs and Pi: IHP < ATP < G6P < GP < Pi. Despite having the largest MW, IHP had greater sorption amounts on amorphous Al(OH)3 than the other OPs because of the transformation of surface complexes to surface precipitates. Sorption kinetics of OPs was first a rapid sorption followed by a long and slow sorption process. Of the three Al (oxyhydr)oxides, amorphous Al(OH)3 had the greatest first rapid sorption density and initial sorption rate of OPs within 5 minutes, both factors decreasing with increasing MW of OPs. The initial desorption percentages of OPs by KCl generally increased with decreasing MW of OPs, whereas the maximum desorption percentages of OPs by citrate were four to five times those achieved with KCl. Overall, strong specific sorption of OPs occurs on the surface of Al (oxyhydr)oxides, and molecular structure and size of OPs, as well as crystallinity and crystal structure of the minerals, are the key factors affecting the interfacial reactions and environmental behaviour of OPs.
Experimental warming drives a seasonal shift in the timing of host‐parasite dynamics with consequences for disease risk
Authors: Paull Sara H. , Johnson Pieter T. J.
Published: January 2014

Multi‐species experiments are critical for identifying the mechanisms through which climate change influences population dynamics and community interactions within ecological systems, including infectious diseases. Using a host–parasite system involving freshwater snails, amphibians and trematode parasites, we conducted a year‐long, outdoor experiment to evaluate how warming affected net parasite production, the timing of infection and the resultant pathology. Warming of 3 °C caused snail intermediate hosts to release parasites 9 months earlier and increased infected snail mortality by fourfold, leading to decreased overlap between amphibians and parasites. As a result, warming halved amphibian infection loads and reduced pathology by 67%, despite comparable total parasite production across temperature treatments. These results demonstrate that climate–disease theory should be expanded to account for predicted changes in host and parasite phenology, which may often be more important than changes in total parasite output for predicting climate‐driven changes in disease risk.
Characteristics of 18 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma who obtained a complete response after treatment with sorafenib
Authors: Shiba Satoshi , Okusaka Takuji , Ikeda Masafumi , Saito Hidetsugu , Ichida Takafumi
Published: January 2014

Aim

Sorafenib, a multi‐targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is a first‐line systemic treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, possible predictors of the efficacy of sorafenib treatment in HCC patients remain unclear.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide survey to examine the situation of patients with HCC treated with sorafenib who obtained a complete response (CR) according to the modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (mRECIST). The investigation was intended to collect clinical information regarding CR patients and to compare this data with an interim report examining all‐patient surveillance for sorafenib use in Japan, which was released in May 2012.

Results

Among the 3047 patients who were treated at institutions belonging to the Liver Cancer Study Group of Japan, 18 patients (0.6%) obtained a CR. Significant factors in the CR group were a female sex, a low bodyweight (<59 kg), an early clinical stage and a small initial dose of sorafenib (P < 0.05). Furthermore, specific adverse events (palmar–plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, hypertension, diarrhea, alopecia, fatigue, nausea and anorexia) were frequently observed in the CR group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study identified the characteristics of CR patients during sorafenib treatment. The evaluation of patients receiving sorafenib, including the investigation of biomarkers, warrants further exploration in future clinical studies to identify a population in which sorafenib treatment is remarkably effective.
Choices and using of washing machines in Chinese households
Authors: Wang Laili , Ding Xuemei , Huang Rui , Wu Xiongying
Published: January 2014

Rapid urbanization and improvement in living standard skyrocket the demand for washing machines in Chinese households, especially in urban households. This paper discusses the owning rate of different types of washing machines, using frequency, load capacity, factors affect choices of washing machines, etc. in Chinese households and suggest possible strategies in choosing washing machines considering economic expenditure. Quantitative information relates to choice and use of household washing machines was collected through in‐depth interview of the key person who carried out household laundering. A total of 993 households that were randomly selected in eight provinces and a municipality were successfully interviewed. Impeller washing machine is still in a dominate place whereas drum washing machine increasing steadily. Households with higher income tend to buy drum washing machines for their better performances in detergency and superior quality. Load capacity between 4 and 6 kg is very common at present. Larger load capacity is a trend of washing machine choices in Chinese households. Washing machine with better energy efficiency is more popular for its lower expenditure in use. This is more obvious for drum washing machine. Washing machines are often used once every 1 or 2 days in summer, whereas one wash per week and two washes per week are very common in winter. Consumer will expend much more money with the choice of a drum washing machine, not only for paying for the machine, but also for the consumed electricity and water and wastewater discharges in every use.
Consumer involvement in health research: a UK scoping and survey
Authors: Mathie Elspeth , Wilson Patricia , Poland Fiona , McNeilly Elaine , Howe Amanda , Staniszewska Sophie , Cowe Marion , Munday Diane , Goodman Claire
Published: January 2014

Consumer involvement or patient and public involvement (PPI) in health research is a UK policy imperative and a prerequisite for many funders. PPI in research is defined as research carried out with or being carried out by the public (or service users), rather than research on patients and public as subjects or participants. Despite the clear policy driver, there is relatively little empirical evidence on the extent, processes and impact of user involvement in research. This paper aims to add to the international evidence base on PPI in research by providing a key overview of current trends and impacts. In order to understand the current extent and variation of PPI in research, a scoping exercise and survey were carried out on selected UK studies. Six research topic areas (cystic fibrosis, diabetes, arthritis, dementia, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and public health) were selected to ensure a range of designs, study populations and histories of PPI in research. A total of 838 studies (non‐commercial studies and not older than 2 years) were contacted. The response rate for the scoping was 38% and the survey 28%. In the scoping, 51% of studies had some evidence of PPI and in the survey 79%. The most common PPI activity was steering committee membership and reviewing patient information leaflets. There appeared to be some blurred roles with patients participating as research subjects as well as carrying out patient involvement roles. A major finding was the limited amount of available information about PPI in publicly accessible research documents. We suggest that the invisibility of this type of involvement and the lack of routinely collected information about PPI results in a lack of shared understanding of what optimal PPI in a study should look like, with important implications for practice. Furthermore, without a framework to review PPI it is difficult to know if different approaches to PPI have a different impact on key outcomes of the research.
Infusion phlebitis assessment measures: a systematic review
Authors: Ray‐Barruel Gillian , Polit Denise F. , Murfield Jenny E. , Rickard Claire M.
Published: January 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

Phlebitis is a common and painful complication of peripheral intravenous cannulation. The aim of this review was to identify the measures used in infusion phlebitis assessment and evaluate evidence regarding their reliability, validity, responsiveness and feasibility.

Method

We conducted a systematic literature review of the Cochrane library, Ovid MEDLINE and EBSCO CINAHL until September 2013. All English‐language studies (randomized controlled trials, prospective cohort and cross‐sectional) that used an infusion phlebitis scale were retrieved and analysed to determine which symptoms were included in each scale and how these were measured. We evaluated studies that reported testing the psychometric properties of phlebitis assessment scales using the COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) guidelines.

Results

Infusion phlebitis was the primary outcome measure in 233 studies. Fifty‐three (23%) of these provided no actual definition of phlebitis. Of the 180 studies that reported measuring phlebitis incidence and/or severity, 101 (56%) used a scale and 79 (44%) used a definition alone. We identified 71 different phlebitis assessment scales. Three scales had undergone some psychometric analyses, but no scale had been rigorously tested.

Conclusion

Many phlebitis scales exist, but none has been thoroughly validated for use in clinical practice. A lack of consensus on phlebitis measures has likely contributed to disparities in reported phlebitis incidence, precluding meaningful comparison of phlebitis rates.