bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical outcomes with transoral robotic surgery for supraglottic squamous cell carcinoma: Experience of a French evaluation cooperative subgroup of GETTEC
Authors: Razafindranaly Victor , Lallemant Benjamin , Aubry Karine , Moriniere Sylvain , Vergez Sébastien , Mones Erwan De , Malard Oliver , Ceruse Philippe
Published: October 2015

Background

Transoral, minimally invasive, organ preservation surgeries are increasingly used to treat laryngopharyngeal carcinomas to avoid the toxicity associated with combined chemoradiotherapy (CRT) regimens. This study investigated the efficiency, safety, and functional outcomes of using transoral robotic surgery (TORS) to perform supraglottic laryngectomy (SGL).

Methods

This was a multicenter study using a case series with planned data collection from 2009 to 2012 for patients with supraglottic squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) who underwent an SGL using TORS.

Results

Eighty‐four of the 262 patients underwent TORS for a supraglottic SCC. Within 24 hours of surgery, 24% of the patients began an oral diet. The median use of a feeding tube was 8 days for 76% of other patients. Definitive percutaneous gastrostomy feeding was necessary for 9.5% of the patients. Twenty‐four percent of the patients did require a tracheostomy, and the median use was 8 days. One percent of the patients had a definitive tracheostomy. Aspiration pneumonia was observed in 23% of the patients during the postoperative course, and was responsible for the death of 1 patient. Postoperative bleeding occurred in 18% of the patients. Based on the pathology results, 51% of the patients received adjuvant radiation therapy.

Conclusion

TORS for SGL, in the intermediate stage of SCC, provides a safe procedure with good functional outcomes and fast recovery times; however, adverse events are possible. Consequently, this technique requires good selection criteria for the patients to reduce the risk of postoperative complications. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E1097–E1101, 2016
Use of terrestrial field studies in the derivation of bioaccumulation potential of chemicals
Authors: van den Brink Nico W , Arblaster Jennifer A , Bowman Sarah R , Conder Jason M , Elliott John E , Johnson Mark S , Muir Derek CG , Natal-da-Luz Tiago , Rattner Barnett A , Sample Bradley E , Shore Richard F
Published: October 2015

Field-based studies are an essential component of research addressing the behavior of organic chemicals, and a unique line of evidence that can be used to assess bioaccumulation potential in chemical registration programs and aid in development of associated laboratory and modeling efforts. To aid scientific and regulatory discourse on the application of terrestrial field data in this manner, this article provides practical recommendations regarding the generation and interpretation of terrestrial field data. Currently, biota-to-soil-accumulation factors (BSAFs), biomagnification factors (BMFs), and bioaccumulation factors (BAFs) are the most suitable bioaccumulation metrics that are applicable to bioaccumulation assessment evaluations and able to be generated from terrestrial field studies with relatively low uncertainty. Biomagnification factors calculated from field-collected samples of terrestrial carnivores and their prey appear to be particularly robust indicators of bioaccumulation potential. The use of stable isotope ratios for quantification of trophic relationships in terrestrial ecosystems needs to be further developed to resolve uncertainties associated with the calculation of terrestrial trophic magnification factors (TMFs). Sampling efforts for terrestrial field studies should strive for efficiency, and advice on optimization of study sample sizes, practical considerations for obtaining samples, selection of tissues for analysis, and data interpretation is provided. Although there is still much to be learned regarding terrestrial bioaccumulation, these recommendations provide some initial guidance to the present application of terrestrial field data as a line of evidence in the assessment of chemical bioaccumulation potential and a resource to inform laboratory and modeling efforts. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2016;12:135–145. © 2015 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC.

Key Points

Terrestrial field studies are a valuable line of evidence in the assessment of the bioaccumulation potential of chemicals. Biota-to-Soil-Accumulation Factors (BSAFs) and Biomagnification Factors (BMFs) are the most robust metrics for quantifying chemical bioaccumulation potential, however, the use of stable isotopes (e.g., ?13C and ?15N) in terrestrial food webs, to support the use of Trophic Accumulation Factors (TMFs) needs further development. Inclusion of bioavailability, spatio-temporal variability and metabolism in assessments of chemical bioaccumulation potential is of great importance to increase environmental realism and relevance.
Black–white differences in cancer risk in Harare, Zimbabwe, during 1991–2010
Authors: Chokunonga Eric , Windridge Peter , Sasieni Peter , Borok Margaret , Parkin D. Maxwell
Published: October 2015

Data from 20 years of cancer registration in Harare (Zimbabwe) are used to investigate the risk of cancer in the white population of the city (of European origin), relative to that in blacks (of African origin). In the absence of information on the respective populations‐at‐risk, we calculated odds of each major cancer among all cancers, and took the odds ratios of whites to blacks. Some major differences reflect obvious phenotypic differences (the very high incidence of skin cancer—melanoma and nonmelanoma—in the white population), whereas others (high rates of liver cancer, Kaposi sarcoma and conjunctival cancers in blacks) are the result of differences in exposure to infectious agents. Of particular interest are cancers related to lifestyle factors, and how the differences in risk are changing over time, as a result of evolving lifestyles. Thus, the high risk of cancers of the esophagus and cervix uteri in blacks (relative to whites) and colorectal cancers in whites show little change over time. Conversely, the odds of breast cancer, on average four times higher in whites than blacks, has shown a significant decrease in the differential over time. Cancer of the prostate, with the odds initially (1991–1997) 15% higher in whites had become 33% higher in blacks by 2004–2010.
Impact of pharmacist involvement in the transitional care of high‐risk patients through medication reconciliation, medication education, and postdischarge call‐backs (IPITCH Study)
Authors: Phatak Arti , Prusi Rachael , Ward Brooke , Hansen Luke O. , Williams Mark V. , Vetter Elizabeth , Chapman Noelle , Postelnick Michael
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND

Previous data suggest that direct pharmacist interaction with patients through medication reconciliation, discharge counseling, and postdischarge phone calls decreases the number of adverse drug events (ADEs) and plays an overall positive role in transitional care. Previous studies have evaluated pharmacist involvement in improving transitional care, but these studies did not include multiple postdischarge follow‐up phone calls.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this study were to assess the impact of pharmacist involvement in transitions of care as measured by decreased medication errors (MEs) and ADEs, patients' knowledge related to communication about their medications as measured by improvement in the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) scores, and 30‐day all‐cause inpatient readmissions and emergency department (ED) visits.

METHODS

This was a prospective, randomized, single‐period longitudinal study that occurred from November 2012 through June 2013 at an urban, tertiary, academic medical center. Patients admitted to 2 designated internal medicine units on high‐risk medications or with greater than 3 prescription medications upon discharge were included for randomization. The control group received the usual hospital standard of care. The study group received face‐to‐face medication reconciliation, a patient‐specific pharmaceutical care plan, discharge counseling, and postdischarge phone calls on days 3, 14, and 30 to provide education and assess study endpoints.

RESULTS

A total of 278 patients were included in the final analysis, with 141 in the control group and 137 in the study group. Fifty‐five patients (39%) in the control arm experienced an inpatient readmission or ED visit within 30‐days postdischarge compared to 34 patients (24.8%) in the study arm (P = 0.01). Eighteen patients (12.8%) in the control group experienced an ADEs or MEs compared to 11 patients (8%) in the study group (P > 0.05). The HCAHPS scores during the study period showed a 9% improvement for the assessed questionnaire domain (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that pharmacist involvement in hospital discharge transitions of care had a positive impact on decreasing composite inpatient readmissions and ED visits. Statistically significant difference in medication‐related events and HCAHPS scores were not observed. Patients with moderately complex medication regimens benefited from a continuity of care involving a pharmacy team during transitions in care. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2016;11:39–44. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
Multicomponent T2 analysis of articular cartilage with synovial fluid partial volume correction
Authors: Liu Fang , Chaudhary Rajeev , Block Walter F. , Samsonov Alexey , Kijowski Richard
Published: October 2015

Purpose

To investigate the use of a three‐pool model to account for the confounding effects of synovial fluid on multicomponent T2 analysis of articular cartilage using Multicomponent Driven Equilibrium Single Shot Observation of T1 and T2 (mcDESPOT).

Materials and Methods

mcDESPOT was performed on the knee of eight asymptomatic volunteers and eight patients with osteoarthritis at 3.0T with multicomponent T2 maps created using the two‐pool model and a three‐pool model containing a nonexchanging synovial fluid water pool. The fraction of the fast‐relaxing water component (FF) and the T2 relaxation times for the fast‐relaxing (T2F) and slow‐relaxing (T2S) water components were measured in the superficial and deep layers of patellar cartilage using the two‐pool and three‐pool models in asymptomatic volunteers and patients with osteoarthritis and were compared using Wilcoxon signed rank tests.

Results

Within the superficial layer of patellar cartilage, FF was 22.5% and 25.6% for asymptomatic volunteers and 21.3% and 22.8% for patients with osteoarthritis when using the two‐pool and three‐pool models, respectively, while T2S was 73.9 msec and 62.0 msec for asymptomatic volunteers and 72.0 msec and 63.1 msec for patients with osteoarthritis when using the two‐pool and three‐pool models, respectively. For both asymptomatic volunteers and patients with osteoarthritis, the two‐pool model provided significantly (P < 0.05) lower FF and higher T2S than the three‐pool model, likely due to the effects of synovial fluid partial volume averaging.

Conclusion

The effects of partial volume averaging between superficial cartilage and synovial fluid may result in biased multicomponent T2 measurements that can be corrected using an mcDESPOT three‐pool model containing a nonexchanging synovial fluid water pool. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:1140–1147.
Reproducibility of cerebrovascular reactivity measures in children using BOLD MRI
Authors: Leung Jackie , Kim Junseok A. , Kassner Andrea
Published: October 2015

Purpose

To evaluate the reproducibility of cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) measurements acquired in children using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in combination with a computer‐controlled carbon dioxide (CO2) stimulus.

Materials and Methods

Ten healthy children (age 16.1 ± 1.6 years) underwent CVR imaging on a 3T scanner using a blood‐oxygen level‐dependent (BOLD) MRI sequence. Targeted hypercapnia was induced during imaging with a CO2 gas challenge delivered using a specialized gas sequencer (RespirAct). A total of four BOLD scans were performed over 2 separate days to test within‐day and between‐day consistency of the data. CVR values were computed by correlating the relative change in BOLD signal in response to the CO2 stimulus delivered to the each subject.

Results

Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) of within‐day values show highly reproducible measures in both the gray matter (ICC = 0.857, P < 0.001) and white matter (ICC = 0.895, P < 0.001). Relatively lower between‐day reproducibility was observed in both the gray matter (ICC = 0.776, P = 0.001) and white matter (ICC = 0.719, P = 0.004).

Conclusion

Using a computer‐controlled CO2 stimulus, we have demonstrated the reliability of BOLD‐CVR measurements in pediatric subjects. Within‐day and between‐day metrics of reproducibility were comparable to adult data. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:1191–1195.
Temperature measurement in human fat with T2 imaging
Authors: Parmala Mikael , Eriksson Mikael , Rytioja Maria , Tanttu Jukka , Köhler Max
Published: October 2015

Purpose

To develop a method for noninvasive T2‐based thermometry that enables estimation of the in vivo temperature in adipose tissues at both 1.5T and 3T field strengths.

Materials and Methods

A total of 27 apparent T2‐temperature measurement sets were performed on 13 human abdominal adipose tissue samples using an inversion prepared dual‐echo single‐slice sequence for apparent T2 estimation. The measurements were performed on Ingenia 1.5T and 3.0T scanners and Achieva 1.5T and 3.0T scanners. The apparent T2‐values were measured at 4°C temperature intervals during heating from 21 to 45°C and cooling to 21°C. A two‐parameter exponential fit was used to estimate the apparent T2 to temperature dependency on a scanner‐to‐scanner basis.

Results

In the temperature range evaluated (21–45°C), the apparent T2 relaxation times increased from an average of ∼100 msec to 190 msec at 1.5T and an average of ∼130 msec to 220 msec at 3T. The measured T2‐relaxation times followed the calibration curve with a median absolute error of 0.37°C and maximum error of 1.7°C in 12 of the 13 samples, with the outlier having a notably different appearance upon visual inspection prior to measurement.

Conclusion

Changes in apparent T2 relaxation time has the potential to be used for accurately estimating local temperature within in vivo subcutaneous fat. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:1171–1178.
Quantitative, comparable coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) spectroscopy: correcting errors in phase retrieval
Authors: Camp Charles H. , Lee Young Jong , Cicerone Marcus T.
Published: October 2015

Coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) microspectroscopy has demonstrated significant potential for biological and materials imaging. To date, however, the primary mechanism of disseminating CARS spectroscopic information is through pseudocolor imagery, which explicitly neglects a vast majority of the hyperspectral data. Furthermore, current paradigms in CARS spectral processing do not lend themselves to quantitative sample‐to‐sample comparability. The primary limitation stems from the need to accurately measure the so‐called nonresonant background (NRB) that is used to extract the chemically sensitive Raman information from the raw spectra. Measurement of the NRB on a pixel‐by‐pixel basis is a nontrivial task; thus, surrogate NRB from glass or water is typically utilized, resulting in error between the actual and estimated amplitude and phase. In this paper, we present a new methodology for extracting the Raman spectral features that significantly suppresses these errors through phase detrending and scaling. Classic methods of error correction, such as baseline detrending, are demonstrated to be inaccurate and to simply mask the underlying errors. The theoretical justification is presented by re‐developing the theory of phase retrieval via the Kramers–Kronig relation, and we demonstrate that these results are also applicable to maximum entropy method‐based phase retrieval. This new error‐correction approach is experimentally applied to glycerol spectra and tissue images, demonstrating marked consistency between spectra obtained using different NRB estimates and between spectra obtained on different instruments. Additionally, in order to facilitate implementation of these approaches, we have made many of the tools described herein available free for download. Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
A population‐based analysis of Head and Neck hemangiopericytoma
Authors: Shaigany Kevin , Fang Christina H. , Patel Tapan D. , Park Richard Chan , Baredes Soly , Eloy Jean Anderson
Published: October 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Hemangiopericytomas (HPC) are tumors that arise from pericytes. Hemangiopericytomas of the head and neck are rare and occur both extracranially and intracranially. This study analyzes the demographic, clinicopathologic, treatment modalities, and survival characteristics of extracranial head and neck hemangiopericytomas (HN‐HPC) and compares them to HPCs at other body sites (Other‐HPC).

Methods

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database (1973–2012) was queried for HN‐HPC (121 cases) and Other‐HPC (510 cases). Data were analyzed comparatively with respect to various demographic and clinicopathologic factors. Disease‐specific survival (DSS) was analyzed using the Kaplan‐Meier model.

Results

There was no significant difference in age at time of diagnosis between HN‐HPC and Other‐HPC. Head and neck HPC was most commonly located in the connective and soft tissue (18.4%), followed by the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses (8.5%). Head and neck HPCs were smaller than Other‐HPC (P < 0.0001) and more likely to be a lower histologic grade (P < 0.0097). The primary treatment modality for HN‐HPC was surgery alone, used in 55.8% of cases. The 5‐, 10‐, and 20‐year DSS for HN‐HPC were 84.0%, 79.4%, and 69.4%, respectfully. Higher histologic grade and the presence of distant metastases were poor prognostic factors for HN‐HPC.

Conclusion

Head and neck HPCs are rare tumors. This study represents the largest series of HN‐HPCs to date. Surgery alone is the primary treatment modality for HN‐HPC, with a favorable prognosis. Adjuvant radiotherapy does not appear to confer a survival benefit for any body site.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 126:643–650, 2016
Shear dispersion from near‐inertial internal Poincaré waves in large lakes
Authors: Choi Jun M. , Troy Cary D. , Hawley Nathan
Published: October 2015

In this work, we study mixed layer lateral dispersion that is enhanced by near‐inertial internal Poincaré waves in the offshore region of a large stratified lake, Lake Michigan. We examine the hypothesis that the vertical shear created by near‐inertial internal Poincaré waves is not only an energy source for vertical mixing in the thermocline and mixed layer, but also enhances horizontal dispersion via an unsteady shear flow dispersion mechanism. Complex empirical orthogonal function analysis reveals that the dominant shear structure is observed to mirror the thermal structure, with the location of maximum shear gradually lowered as the mixed layer deepens. This changing structure of shear and vertical mixing produces different characteristics in shear flow dispersion between the early and later stratified periods. The estimated depth‐averaged surface layer vertical turbulent diffusivity grows from
to
over the stratified period, and the associated lateral dispersion coefficients are estimated as 0.1
40
. The Poincaré waves are found to enhance greatly lateral dispersion for times less than the inertial period following release. In contrast, sub‐inertial shear is the dominant mechanism responsible for shear dispersion for times greater than the inertial period. A simple approximation of the dispersion coefficient for lateral dispersion is developed, which scales as the product of surface current velocity (or wind friction velocity) and mixed layer depth. The calculated dispersion coefficients agree well with Okubo's diffusion diagram for times up to a week, which suggests that unsteady shear dispersion is a plausible mechanism to explain observed dispersion rates in the mixed layer for early times after release.
Mary Seacole and claims of evidence‐based practice and global influence
Authors: McDonald Lynn
Published: October 2015

Aim

The aim of this paper was to explore the contribution of Mary Seacole to nursing and health care, notably in comparison with that of Florence Nightingale.

Background

Much information is available, in print and electronic, that presents Mary Seacole as a nurse, even as a pioneer nurse and leader in public health care. Her own memoir and copious primary sources, show rather than she was a businesswoman, who gave assistance during the Crimean War, mainly to officers. Florence Nightingale's role as the major founder of the nursing profession, a visionary of public health care and key player in advocating ‘environmental’ health, reflected in her ownNotes on Nursing, is ignored or misconstrued.

Design

Discussion paper.

Data sources

British newspapers of 19th century andThe Timesdigital archive; Australian and New Zealand newspaper archives, published memoirs, letters and biographies/autobiographies of Crimean War participants were the major sources.

Results

Careful examination of primary sources, notably digitized newspaper sources, British, Australian and New Zealand, show that the claims for Seacole's ‘global influence’ in nursing do not hold, while her use of ‘practice‐based evidence’ might better be called self‐assessment. Primary sources, moreover, show substantial evidence of Nightingale's contributions to nursing and health care, in Australia, New Zealand, theUSAand many countries and theUKmuch material shows her influence also on hospital safety and health promotion.
Network‐based proteomic analysis for postmenopausal osteoporosis in Caucasian females
Authors: Zhang Lan , Liu Yao‐Zhong , Zeng Yong , Zhu Wei , Zhao Ying‐Chun , Zhang Ji‐Gang , Zhu Jia‐Qiang , He Hao , Shen Hui , Tian Qing , Deng Fei‐Yan , Papasian Christopher J. , Deng Hong‐Wen
Published: October 2015

Menopause is one of the crucial physiological events during the life of a woman. Transition of menopause status is accompanied by increased risks of various health problems such as osteoporosis. Peripheral blood monocytes can differentiate into osteoclasts and produce cytokines important for osteoclast activity. With quantitative proteomics LC‐nano‐ESI‐MSE (where MSE is elevated‐energy MS), we performed protein expression profiling of peripheral blood monocytes in 42 postmenopausal women with discordant bone mineral density (BMD) levels. Traditional comparative analysis showed proteins encoded by four genes (LOC654188, PPIA, TAGLN2, YWHAB) and three genes (LMNB1, ANXA2P2, ANXA2) were significantly down‐ and upregulated, respectively, in extremely low‐ versus high‐BMD subjects. To study functionally orchestrating groups of detected proteins in the form of networks, we performed weighted gene coexpression network analysis and gene set enrichment analysis. Weighted gene coexpression network analysis showed that the module including the annexin gene family was most significantly correlated with low BMD, and the lipid‐binding related GO terms were enriched in this identified module. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed that two significantly enriched gene sets may be involved in postmenopausal BMD variation by regulating pro‐inflammatory cytokines activities. To gain more insights into the proteomics data generated, we performed integrative analyses of the datasets available to us at the genome (DNA level), transcriptome (RNA level), and proteome levels jointly.
Comprehensive proteomic analysis of the wheat pathogenic fungus Zymoseptoria tritici
Authors: Yang Fen , Yin Qi
Published: October 2015

Zymoseptoria tritici causes Septoria tritici blotch disease of wheat. To obtain a comprehensive protein dataset of this fungal pathogen, proteomes of Z. tritici growing in nutrient‐limiting and rich media and in vivo at a late stage of wheat infection were fractionated by 1D gel or strong cation exchange (SCX) chromatography and analyzed by LC‐MS/MS. A total of 5731, 5376 and 3168 Z. tritici proteins were confidently identified from these conditions, respectively. Of these in vitro and in planta proteins, 9 and 11% were predicted to contain signal peptides, respectively. Functional classification analysis revealed the proteins were involved in the various cellular activities. Comparison of three distinct protein expression profiles demonstrates the elevated carbohydrate, lipid and secondary metabolisms, transport, protein processing and energy production specifically in the host environment, in contrast to the enhancement of signaling, defense, replication, transcription and cell division in vitro. The data provide useful targets towards a better understanding of the molecular basis of Z. tritici growth, development, stress response and pathogenicity.
“Grafting through” polymerization involving surface‐bound monomers
Authors: Datta Preeta , Genzer Jan
Published: October 2015

“Grafting through” polymerization represents copolymerization of free monomers in solution and polymerizable units bound to a substrate. Free polymer chains are formed initially in solution and can incorporate the surface‐bound monomers, and thereby, get covalently bonded to the surface during the polymerization process. As more growing chains attach to the surface‐bound monomers, an immobilized polymer layer is formed on the surface. We use a combination of computer simulation and experiments to comprehend this process for monomers bound to a flat impenetrable substrate. We concentrate specifically on addressing the effect of spatial density of the surface‐bound monomers on the formation of the surface‐attached polymers. We employ a lattice‐based Monte Carlo model utilizing the bond fluctuation model scheme to provide molecular‐level insight into the grafting process. For experimental validation, we create gradients of density of bound methacrylate units on flat silicon wafers using organosilane chemistry and carry out “grafting through” free radical polymerization initiated in bulk. We report that the proximity of the surface‐bound polymerizable units promotes the “grafting through” process but prevents more free growing chains to “graft through'' the polymerizable units. The “grafting through” process is self‐limiting in nature and does not affect the overall density of the surface‐bound polymer layer, except in case of the highest theoretical packing density of surface‐bound monomers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 263–274
Focused laser‐induced marangoni dewetting for patterning polymer thin films
Authors: Singer Jonathan P. , Kooi Steven E. , Thomas Edwin L.
Published: October 2015

Highly‐localized focused laser spike (FLaSk) heating of polymer thin films is a resist‐ and developer‐free alternative to two‐dimensional (2D) laser direct write for creating patterns on the single micron or, by exploiting overlap effects, submicron scale. The massive temporal and spatial thermal gradients and resulting thermal Marangoni stresses generated by FLaSk are an effective means for the directed dewetting and patterning of such films. Here, the general applicability of this technique to glassy amorphous polymer thin film systems is investigated through systematic investigation of film thickness, glass transition temperature, and polymer mobility. The results reveal that the important parameters are the film thickness (coupled to the optical heating effects through anti‐reflection coating effects) and the high‐temperature polymer melt mobility, allowing for generation of single features with linewidths of down to ∼1 μm. Further, the introduction of spatial mobility variations by using polymer brushes, bilayers, and microphase separated block copolymers leads to additional profile manipulation effects (i.e. spontaneous 2D pattern generation and flattened top profiles). © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 225–236
Intraguild predation of Geocoris punctipes on Eretmocerus eremicus and its influence on the control of the whitefly Trialeurodes vaporariorum
Authors: Bao‐Fundora Lourdes , Ramirez‐Romero Ricardo , Sánchez‐Hernández Carla V , Sánchez‐Martínez José , Desneux Nicolas
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND

Geocoris punctipes (Hemiptera: Lygaeidae) and Eretmocerus eremicus (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) are whitefly natural enemies. Previously, under laboratory conditions, we showed that G. punctipes engages in intraguild predation (IGP), the attack of one natural enemy by another, on E. eremicus. However, it is unknown whether this IGP interaction takes place under more complex scenarios, such as semi‐field conditions. Even more importantly, the effect of this interaction on the density of the prey population requires investigation. Therefore, the present study aimed to establish whether this IGP takes place under semi‐field conditions and to determine whether the predation rate of G. punctipes on the whitefly decreases when IGP takes place.

RESULTS

Molecular analysis showed that, under semi‐field conditions, G. punctipes performed IGP on E. eremicus. However, although IGP did take place, the predation rate by G. punctipes on the whitefly was nevertheless higher when both natural enemies were present together than when the predator was present alone.

CONCLUSION

While IGP of G. punctipes on E. eremicus does occur under semi‐field conditions, it does not adversely affect whitefly control. The concomitant use of these two natural enemies seems a valid option for inundative biological control programmes of T. vaporariorum in tomato. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Rational design of YAP WW1 domain‐binding peptides to target TGFβ/BMP/Smad–YAP interaction in heterotopic ossification
Authors: Chen Dong , Liu Shenghe , Zhang Wen , Sun Luyuan
Published: October 2015

The transforming growth factor‐β/bone morphogenic protein/Smad signaling pathway has been raised as a new and promising therapeutic target of heterotopic ossification, which is mediated by recruitment of transcription coactivator Yes‐associated protein (YAP) to Smad. Here, we described a successful integration of computational modeling and experimental assay to rationally design novel peptide aptamers to disrupt YAP–Smad interaction by targeting YAP WW1 domain. In the protocol, a computational genetic evolution strategy was used to improve a population of potential YAP WW1‐binding peptides generated from the YAP‐recognition site in Smad protein, from which several promising peptides were selected and their affinities toward YAP WW1 domain were determined using binding assay. In addition, a high‐activity peptide was further optimized based on its complex structure with YAP WW1 domain to derive a number of derivative peptides with higher binding potency to the domain. We also found that a strong YAP WW1 binder should have a negatively charged N‐terminus, a positively charged C‐terminus and a nonpolar core to match the electrostatic distribution pattern in peptide‐binding pocket of YAP WW1 domain, which may also form additional nonbonded interactions such as hydrogen bond, salt bridge and π–π stacking to confer stability and specificity for the domain–peptide recognition. Copyright © 2015 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Model free audit methodology for bias evaluation of tumour progression in oncology
Authors: Stone Andrew , Macpherson Euan , Smith Ann , Jennison Christopher
Published: October 2015

Many oncology studies incorporate a blinded independent central review (BICR) to make an assessment of the integrity of the primary endpoint, progression free survival. Recently, it has been suggested that, in order to assess the potential for bias amongst investigators, a BICR amongst only a sample of patients could be performed; if evidence of bias is detected, according to a predefined threshold, the BICR is then assessed in all patients, otherwise, it is concluded that the sample was sufficient to rule out meaningful levels of bias. In this paper, we present an approach that adapts a method originally created for defining futility bounds in group sequential designs. The hazard ratio ratio, the ratio of the hazard ratio (HR) for the treatment effect estimated from the BICR to the corresponding HR for the investigator assessments, is used as the metric to define bias. The approach is simple to implement and ensures a high probability that a substantial true bias will be detected. In the absence of bias, there is a high probability of accepting the accuracy of local evaluations based on the sample, in which case an expensive BICR of all patients is avoided. The properties of the approach are demonstrated by retrospective application to a completed Phase III trial in colorectal cancer. The same approach could easily be adapted for other disease settings, and for test statistics other than the hazard ratio. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optical and surface properties of optically transparent Li3PO4 solid electrolyte layer for transparent solid batteries
Authors: Pat Suat , Özen Soner , Şenay Volkan , Korkmaz Şadan
Published: October 2015

In this study, optical and surface properties of the optically transparent Li3PO4 solid electrolyte layer for transparent solid battery have been investigated for the first time. To determine the optical properties, transmittance, absorbance, reflection, refractive index spectra, and optical band gap were determined by UV‐Vis spectrophotometer and optical interferometer. The surface property of the transparent Li3PO4 solid electrolyte was analyzed using atomic force microscopy. One another important parameter is contact angle (CA) surface free energy (SFE). CA and SFE were determined by optical tensiometer. These values probably are a most important parameter for polymer and hybrid battery performance. For the best performance, value of CA should be low. As a result, solid electrolyte layer is a highly transparent and it has a high wettability. SCANNING 38:317–321, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Apigenin induced apoptosis in esophageal carcinoma cells by destruction membrane structures
Authors: Zhu Haiyan , Jin Hua , Pi Jiang , Bai Haihua , Yang Fen , Wu Chaomin , Jiang Jinhuan , Cai Jiye
Published: October 2015

Apigenin has shown to have killing effects on some kinds of solid tumor cells. However, the changes in cell membrane induced by apigenin on subcellular‐ or nanometer‐level were still unclear. In this work, human esophageal cancer cells (EC9706 and KYSE150 cells) were employed as cell model to detect the cytotoxicity of apigenin, including cell growth inhibition, apoptosis induction, membrane toxicity, etc. MTT assay showed that apigenin could remarkably inhibit the growth and proliferation in both types of cells. Annexin V/PI‐based flow cytometry analysis showed that the cytotoxic effects of apigenin in KYSE150 cells were mainly through early apoptosis induction, while in EC9706 cells, necrosis, and apoptosis were both involved in cell death. The morphological and ultrastructural properties induced by apigenin were investigated at single cellular‐ or nanometer‐level using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Additionally, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage was measured to assess the changes in membrane permeability. The results indicated that apigenin increased the membrane permeability and caused leakage of LDH, which was consistent with damages on membrane ultrastructure detected by AFM. Therefore, membrane toxicity, including membrane ultrastructure damages and enhanced membrane permeability, played vital roles in apigenin induced human esophageal cancer cell apoptosis. SCANNING 38:322–328, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bayesian approach for assessing non‐inferiority in a three‐arm trial with pre‐specified margin
Authors: Ghosh Samiran , Ghosh Santu , Tiwari Ram C.
Published: October 2015

Non‐inferiority trials are becoming increasingly popular for comparative effectiveness research. However, inclusion of the placebo arm, whenever possible, gives rise to a three‐arm trial which has lesser burdensome assumptions than a standard two‐arm non‐inferiority trial. Most of the past developments in a three‐arm trial consider defining a pre‐specified fraction of unknown effect size of reference drug, that is, without directly specifying a fixed non‐inferiority margin. However, in some recent developments, a more direct approach is being considered with pre‐specified fixed margin albeit in the frequentist setup. Bayesian paradigm provides a natural path to integrate historical and current trials' information via sequential learning. In this paper, we propose a Bayesian approach for simultaneous testing of non‐inferiority and assay sensitivity in a three‐arm trial with normal responses. For the experimental arm, in absence of historical information, non‐informative priors are assumed under two situations, namely when (i) variance is known and (ii) variance is unknown. A Bayesian decision criteria is derived and compared with the frequentist method using simulation studies. Finally, several published clinical trial examples are reanalyzed to demonstrate the benefit of the proposed procedure. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Centile estimation for a proportion response variable
Authors: Hossain Abu , Rigby Robert , Stasinopoulos Mikis , Enea Marco
Published: October 2015

This paper introduces two general models for computing centiles when the response variableYcan take values between 0 and 1, inclusive of 0 or 1. The models developed are more flexible alternatives to the beta inflated distribution. The first proposed model employs a flexible four parameter logit skew Studentt(logitSST) distribution to model the response variableYon the unit interval (0, 1), excluding 0 and 1. This model is then extended to the inflatedlogitSSTdistribution forYon the unit interval, including 1. The second model developed in this paper is a generalised Tobit model forYon the unit interval, including 1. Applying these two models to(1‐Y)rather thanYenables modelling ofYon the unit interval including 0 rather than 1. An application of the new models to real data shows that they can provide superior fits. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Postcoital Dysphoria: Prevalence and Psychological Correlates
Authors: Schweitzer Robert D. , O'Brien Jessica , Burri Andrea
Published: October 2015

Introduction

While problems related to desire, arousal, and orgasm have been subject to extensive epidemiologic research, women's postcoital reactions and feelings, and postcoital dysphoria (PCD) remains under-researched.

Aim

The study examined the association between women's attachment anxiety and avoidance, differentiation of self, and the experience of PCD symptoms.

Methods

Two hundred and thirty female university students completed an online survey.

Main Outcome Measures

The Female Sexual Function Index, the Experiences in Close Relationships Scale, the Differentiation of Self Inventory-Revised, and study specific questions.

Results

Forty-six percent of respondents reported experiencing PCD symptoms at least once in their lifetime with 5.1% experiencing PCD symptoms a few times within the past 4 weeks. A small but significant inverse correlation was found between lifetime prevalence of PCD and sexual functioning (r = −0.16). While the regression model accounted for 22% of variance in lifetime prevalence of PCD, attachment and differentiation of self variables did not account for significant variance.

Conclusions

The findings confirm that PCD is under-recognized and under-researched. There appears to be no relationship between PCD and intimacy in close relationships. Further research is necessary to understand the subjective experience of PCD and to inform the development of a reliable measure.
Field experiments in strategy research
Authors: Chatterji Aaron K. , Findley Michael , Jensen Nathan M. , Meier Stephan , Nielson Daniel
Published: October 2015

Strategy research often aims to empirically establish a causal relationship between an independent variable and a dependent variable such as firm performance. For many important strategy research questions, however, traditional empirical techniques are not sufficient to establish causal effects with high confidence. We propose that field experiments have potential to be used more widely in strategy research, leveraging methodological innovations from other disciplines to address persistent puzzles in the literature. We first review the advantages and disadvantages of using field experiments to answer questions in strategy. We define two types of experiments, “strategy field experiments” and “process field experiments,” and present an original example of each variety. The first study explores the liability of foreignness and the second study tests theories regarding corporate culture. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The use of sparse inverse covariance estimation for relationship detection and hypothesis generation in strategic management
Authors: Li Mei , Lin Ying , Huang Shuai , Crossland Craig
Published: October 2015

Research summary: This paper uses Sparse Inverse Covariance Estimation (SICE) to advance strategic management research, focusing on an application of exploratory SICE techniques to generate novel, testable hypotheses. We demonstrate how SICE can identify intrinsic relationships among variables, especially within large, high‐dimension–low‐observation datasets. We also discuss the strengths and limitations of SICE, as well as the most appropriate uses of these techniques. We conclude with a detailed illustration of SICE analysis using the High Performance Manufacturing dataset.

Managerial summary: Most academic research in strategic management is based on formal hypotheses, which are testable statements of the relationships linking two or more variables. Researchers currently use several approaches to generate hypotheses, but all have different shortcomings. In our study, we demonstrate how researchers can use a set of quantitative techniques known as Sparse Inverse Covariance Estimation (SICE) to generate new hypotheses from large datasets. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Grouping interdependent tasks: Using spectral graph partitioning to study complex systems
Authors: Lee Chi‐Hyon , Hoehn‐Weiss Manuela N. , Karim Samina
Published: October 2015

Research summary: This article uses spectral graph partitioning to advance strategic management research, and focuses on the study of complex systems that contain strongly connected components with component interactions that are weighted and directed. The spectral graph partitioning method complements existing methods, especially, when external architectural artifacts do not exist or are less than certain. We illustrate this methodology using a U.S. airline's production system. We highlight some useful metrics and show how researchers can apply this method to generate additional architectural insights.

Managerial summary: We describe a method for analyzing the architecture of complex systems that contain directed and weighted component interactions, and in which each component is interdependent (directly or indirectly) on every other component. Using the spectra of a complex system, the method is not only tractable but also provides good and predictable groupings. We illustrate this method using the firm-level production task system of a firm found in the U.S. passenger airline sector. The method is useful if the system architecture is hidden, in flux, or both. The method may also permit a holistic comparison of different systems and their architectures. We discuss metrics and illustrate how they can provide additional architectural insights. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Video methods in strategy research: Focusing on embodied cognition
Authors: Gylfe Philip , Franck Henrika , Lebaron Curtis , Mantere Saku
Published: October 2015

Research summary: Video‐based methods can help researchers explore the significance of the human body in the practice of organizational strategy. We present a toolkit for the analysis of video data. The toolkit consists of three techniques: the detailing of significant forms in visual data, the sequencing of movement around such forms, and the patterning of movements across episodes. We employ these techniques on video recordings of middle managers engaged in a large‐scale strategic change effort. By revealing and analyzing the practices of “top‐down” and “bottom‐up bridging,” we show how the embodied cognition of middle managers supports strategy implementation by influencing nascent behavioral and cognitive changes among their subordinates. We conclude our account by suggesting a research agenda for video‐based work in strategy research.

Managerial summary: We explore video-based methods as a means to understand how middle managers incorporate strategic change in their practice. During strategic change efforts, a lot of what is taken to be the buildup of “shared understanding” is more appropriately viewed as emotional contagion. The success of middle management change agency is thus measured, not only by their successful elaboration of strategy content to others, but also whether or not organizational members invest themselves emotionally to the change endeavor. Such contagion is founded on the interaction of human bodies as well as their verbal discourse. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The differential impacts of markets for technology on the value of technological resources: An application of group‐based trajectory models
Authors: Mani Deepa , Nandkumar Anand
Published: October 2015

Research summary: This article uses Group‐Based Trajectory (GBT) Models to advance strategic management research, focusing on demonstrating the differential impacts of markets for technology on the value of technological capabilities. Group Based Trajectory (GBT) models, a statistical technique based on finite mixture models, can be used to discern heterogeneity based on an attribute of interest, especially when the heterogeneity changes or evolves over time, and when there is a lack of theoretical guidance to discern the basis of heterogeneity. We illustrate these advantages of GBT models in our study of how the moderating effect of markets for technology on the value of technological capability is itself moderated by firm types. We conclude with a discussion of potential uses of the method in strategic management research.

Managerial summary: This article illustrates the use of Group-Based Trajectory Models in discerning heterogeneity in an attribute of interest, including firm resources, capabilities, strategies, and performance, especially when such heterogeneity changes or evolves over time. We illustrate these advantages of GBT models in an analysis of how the moderating effect of markets for technology on the value of technological capability is itself moderated by firm types. Specifically, we find that the performance of firms, whose strategic position is based on technological competence, is negatively impacted when MFT are extensive, whereas that of firms whose strategic position is also based on other complementary capabilities is relatively unaffected. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.