bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vasohibin‐1 expression inhibits advancement of ovarian cancer producing various angiogenic factors
Authors: Takahashi Yoshifumi , Saga Yasushi , Koyanagi Takahiro , Takei Yuji , Machida Shizuo , Taneichi Akiyo , Mizukami Hiroaki , Sato Yasufumi , Matsubara Shigeki , Fujiwara Hiroyuki
Published: February 2016

Vasohibin‐1 (VASH1) is a negative feedback regulator of angiogenesis, the first to be discovered, and was identified in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐stimulated vascular endothelial cells. Vasohibin‐1 inhibits abnormal vascularization induced by various angiogenic factors including fibroblast growth factor and platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF), in addition to VEGF. By focusing on this characteristic of VASH1, we investigated the antitumor effects of VASH1 expression on ovarian cancer cells that produce different angiogenic factors. By using a high VEGF‐producing ovarian cancer cell line, SHIN‐3, and a high PDGF‐producing ovarian cancer cell line, KOC‐2S, the cells were transfected with either a VEGF antagonist, soluble VEGF receptor‐1 (sVEGFR‐1, or sFlt‐1), or VASH1 genes to establish their respective cellular expression. The characteristics of these transfectants were compared with controls. We previously reported that the expression of sFlt‐1 inhibited tumor vascularization and growth of high VEGF‐producing ovarian cancer cells, reduced peritoneal dissemination and ascites development, and prolonged the survival time of the host. However, in the current study, the expression of sFlt‐1 had no such effect on the high PDGF‐producing ovarian cancer cells used here, whereas VASH1 expression inhibited tumor vascularization and growth, not only in high VEGF‐producing cells, but also in high PDGF‐producing cells, reduced their peritoneal dissemination and ascites, and prolonged the survival time of the host. These results suggest that VASH1 is an effective treatment for ovarian cancer cells that produce different angiogenic factors.
Discovery of New Substrates for LuxAB Bacterial Bioluminescence
Authors: Jiang Tianyu , Wang Weishan , Wu Xingkang , Wu Wenxiao , Bai Haixiu , Ma Zhao , Shen Yuemao , Yang Keqian , Li Minyong
Published: February 2016

In this article, four novel substrates with long halftime have been designed and synthesized successfully for luxAB bacterial bioluminescence. After in vitro and in vivo biological evaluation, these molecules can emit obvious bioluminescence emission with known bacterial luciferase, thus indicating a new promising approach to developing the bacterial bioluminescent system.
β‐lactoglobulin–pectin Nanoparticle‐based Oral Drug Delivery System for Potential Treatment of Colon Cancer
Authors: Izadi Zhila , Divsalar Adeleh , Saboury Ali Akbar , Sawyer Lindsay
Published: February 2016

Colon cancer is one of the most common internal malignancies, and conventional chemotherapy is not effective in its treatment. Nanoparticles hold tremendous potential as an effective drug delivery system. The physicochemical properties of β‐lactoglobulin, the main whey protein of cow's milk, such as its stability at low pH, its resistance to gastric protease, and its ability to bind hydrophobic ligands, give it potential for transporting drugs specifically for colon cancer. In the present research, β‐lactoglobulin–pectin nanoparticles were designed to transfer a newly synthesized, anticancer platinum complex (bipyridine ethyl dithiocarbamate Pt(II) nitrate), to the colon. The effects of multiple factors on the size and the colloidal stability of the nanoparticles were studied using dynamic light scattering and scanning electron microscopy techniques. Results showed that the best particle size and highest colloidal stability were obtained in phosphate buffer, pH 4.5, with 0.5 mg/mL β‐lactoglobulin and 0.025–0.05wt% pectin. The drug release profile in simulated gastrointestinal conditions demonstrated that β‐lactoglobulin with a secondary coating is stable in acidic conditions but is able to release its cargo at pH 7. Hence, these nanoparticles have potential to serve as novel and effective vehicles for oral drug delivery preparations.
Glycolipid‐based TLR4 Modulators and Fluorescent Probes: Rational Design, Synthesis, and Biological Properties
Authors: Ciaramelli Carlotta , Calabrese Valentina , Sestito Stefania E. , Pérez‐Regidor Lucia , Klett Javier , Oblak Alja , Jerala Roman , Piazza Matteo , Martín‐Santamaría Sonsoles , Peri Francesco
Published: February 2016

The cationic glycolipid IAXO‐102, a potent TLR4 antagonist targeting both MD‐2 and CD14 co‐receptors, has been used as scaffold to design new potential TLR4 modulators and fluorescent labels for the TLR4 receptor complex (membrane TLR4.MD‐2 dimer and CD14). The primary amino group of IAXO‐102, not involved in direct interaction with MD‐2 and CD14 receptors, has been exploited to covalently attach a fluorescein (molecules 1 and 2) or to link two molecules of IAXO‐102 through diamine and diammonium spacers, obtaining ‘dimeric’ molecules 3 and 4. The structure‐based rational design of compounds 1‐4 was guided by the optimization of MD‐2 and CD14 binding. Compounds 1 and 2 inhibited TLR4 activation, in a concentration‐dependent manner, and signaling in HEK‐Blue TLR4 cells. The fluorescent labeling of murine macrophages by molecule 1 was inhibited by LPS and was also abrogated when cell surface proteins were digested by trypsin, thus suggesting an interaction of fluorescent probe 1 with membrane proteins of the TLR4 receptor system.
Executive Function in Previously Institutionalized Children
Authors: Merz Emily C. , Harlé Katia M. , Noble Kimberly G. , McCall Robert B.
Published: February 2016

In studies of children adopted from institutions, early institutionalization has been associated consistently with an increased risk of persistent cognitive, academic, and social‐emotional problems. These findings raise questions about the neurocognitive mechanisms that contribute to these negative outcomes. Theory and models based on studies of animals indicate that development of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and executive function (EF) may be particularly susceptible to environmental influences during early childhood. In this article, we review recent studies of postinstitutionalized children that examined EF components such as inhibitory control, working memory, shifting, and planning. We then describe emerging research on the structure and function of the PFC. Converging evidence suggests both EF difficulties and alterations in development of the PFC following early institutionalization. We conclude by discussing possible explanations for these findings and implications for prevention and intervention, and by offering suggestions for ongoing research.
Influence of initial caries lesions on quality of life in preschool children: a 2‐year cohort study
Authors: Guedes Renata S. , Ardenghi Thiago M. , Piovesan Chaiana , Emmanuelli Bruno , Mendes Fausto M.
Published: February 2016

Objectives

We aimed to assess the impact of the presence of initial and other stages of dental caries on the impairment of oral health‐related quality of life in preschool children (COHRQoL) through a cohort study.

Methods

During an epidemiological survey, 478 children (12–59 months old) were examined for dental caries using the International Caries and Detection Assessment System (ICDAS), and their parents answered the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS). Children were categorized based on the presence of dental caries as follows: children with no caries lesions, children with only initial lesions (ICDAS scores 1 and 2), children with at least one moderate lesion (ICDAS scores 3 and 4) and children with extensive lesions (ICDAS scores 5 and 6). After 2 years, 352 children were re‐examined for the presence of dentine cavitations, and their parents completed a new ECOHIS questionnaire. Multilevel Poisson regression analysis was performed to evaluate the impact of the presence of different stages of caries lesions at the baseline on COHRQoL impairment at the follow‐up, considering two outcome variables: worsening and severe worsening of COHRQoL. Relative risk values (RR) and respective 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated.

Results

Worsening or severe worsening of the COHRQoL at the follow‐up were observed only in children with moderate lesions (RR = 2.00; 95% CI = 1.30–3.08 and RR = 2.38; 95% CI = 1.31–4.34, respectively) or children with extensive lesions (RR = 1.59; 95% CI = 1.10–2.30 for worsening and RR = 1.88; 95% CI = 1.13–3.12 for severe worsening). On the other hand, the presence of only initial caries lesions was not a significant predictor of COHRQoL impairment.

Conclusions

The presence of only initial caries lesions does not impair COHRQoL of preschool children; however, moderate and extensive lesions are risk factors for worsening of the COHRQoL.
Does providing written dietary advice improve the ingestion of non‐allergic nuts in children with existing nut allergies? – A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Norman M. , South C. , Quinn P. , Chan D. , Palmer S. , Netting M. , Gold M.
Published: February 2016

Background

Allergy to one or more nuts is common in children and often complete nut avoidance is advised. More recently, introduction of non‐allergic nuts into the diet is advised by some allergists.

Objective

This study aims to determine whether the provision of additional written dietary advice increases the ingestion of non‐allergic nuts by children with nut allergy. Secondary aims include determining which factors facilitate or prevent successful inclusion of non‐allergic nuts in the diet, and how inclusion influences quality of life, sensitization and the rate of nut reactions.

Methods

This is a randomized, double‐blinded, controlled trial of children with nut allergy who were asked to ingest one or more non‐allergic nuts. Participants were 75 children aged 2–16 years (Intervention=36, Control=39), recruited in Adelaide, Australia. Randomized participants were supplied with the intervention (recipe booklet and monthly reminder text messages) or provided standard verbal dietary advice. After 6 months participants were assessed by a blinded investigator with regard to nut ingestion, quality of life, sensitization and nut reactions.

Results

The intervention did not increase the ingestion of non‐allergic nuts. A negative hospital challenge was a predictor of successful introduction. Parental report of child concern about a reaction was the greatest barrier. Ingestion of non‐allergic nuts did not improve quality of life or change nut sensitization. Few nut reactions occurred during the study.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Ingestion of non‐allergic nuts by children with nut allergy was not improved by additional dietary intervention. Selective introduction of non‐allergic nuts is difficult to achieve when the child is anxious about introduction and challenges cannot be done in a medically supervised setting.

Capsule Summary

This dietary intervention did not improve non‐allergic nut ingestion by nut allergic children. Hospital challenge increased introduction rates, whilst parentally reported child concern about a reaction reduced success. Non‐allergic nut ingestion did not change quality of life or sensitization.
Molecular cloning of plane pollen allergen Pla a 3 and its utility as diagnostic marker for peach associated plane pollen allergy
Authors: Wangorsch A. , Larsson H. , Messmer M. , García‐Moral A. , Lauer I. , Wolfheimer S. , Schülke S. , Bartra J. , Vieths S. , Lidholm J. , Scheurer S.
Published: February 2016

Background

Non‐specific lipid transfer proteins (nsLTP) are considered to provoke allergic symptoms to plane tree pollen, which are frequently associated with peach allergy.

Objective

The objective was to clone the cDNA of plane pollen nsLTP Pla a 3, to characterize IgE‐binding and allergenic potency of recombinant Pla a 3 in comparison to its natural counterpart and peach nsLTP Pru p 3.

Methods

Natural Pla a 3 was purified from plane pollen and analysed by mass spectrometry (MS). Recombinant Pla a 3 was characterized by SDS‐PAGE and CD spectroscopy. Specific IgE to extract, components of plane pollen and Pru p 3 was measured by ImmunoCAP in sera of patients allergic to either plane pollen (n = 10), peach (n = 15) or both (n = 15). Biological potency of the proteins was investigated by in vitro mediator release assays and IgE cross‐reactivity by competitive ELISA.

Results

Two Pla a 3 isoforms were identified. Recombinant Pla a 3 showed high purity, structural integrity, IgE‐binding capacity comparable to nPla a 3 and biological potency. Sensitization to plane pollen extract was confirmed in 24/25 plane pollen allergics. The frequency of sensitization to Pla a 3 was 53% among patients allergic to both plane pollen and peach and 10% among plane pollen allergics tolerating peach where most patients were sensitized to Pla a 1. Pla a 3 and Pru p 3 showed strong bi‐directional IgE cross‐reactivity in patients allergic to peach and plane pollen, but not in peach allergics tolerating plane pollen. Levels of IgE‐binding were generally higher to Pru p 3 than to Pla a 3.

Conclusion

Sensitization to Pla a 3 is relevant in a subgroup of plane pollen allergics with concomitant peach allergy. IgE testing with Pla a 3 may serve as a marker to identify plane pollen allergic patients at risk of LTP‐mediated food reactions and thereby improve in vitro diagnostic procedures.
High‐dose cutaneous exposure to mite allergen induces IgG‐mediated protection against anaphylaxis
Authors: Hirai T. , Yoshioka Y. , Takahashi H. , Handa T. , Izumi N. , Mori T. , Uemura E. , Nishijima N. , Sagami K. , Yamaguchi M. , Eto S. , Nagano K. , Kamada H. , Tsunoda S. , Ishii K. J. , Higashisaka K. , Tsutsumi Y.
Published: February 2016

Background

The relationship among natural allergen exposure, induction of blocking antibody and the occurrence of atopic allergy—particularly in the presence of IgE production—is debatable.

Objective

To clarify the relationship between the dose of cutaneous exposure to dust mite allergen and susceptibility to the IgE‐mediated allergic response in relation to IgG production.

Methods

NC/Nga mice were epicutaneously exposed to various doses of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus allergen to induce atopic dermatitis–like skin lesions. We then evaluated the skin lesions, induction of mite‐specific immune responses, and susceptibility to anaphylaxis.

Results

Dose‐dependent exacerbation of atopic dermatitis–like skin lesions and increases in mite‐specific IgG and IgE production were observed. However, mice exposed to relatively low doses of mite allergen showed hypersusceptibility to mite allergen–specific anaphylaxis. We also showed that adoptive transfer of total IgG from Dp‐sensitized mice rescued mice from the hypersusceptibility seen in those exposed to low doses of mite allergen.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

High‐dose cutaneous exposure to dust mites induced effective blocking IgG production, even if accompanied by IgE production. Our data might support the concept that an increase in IgG titre, not a decrease in IgE titre, is a marker of clinical improvement in allergen‐specific immunotherapy.
Lung–gut cross‐talk: evidence, mechanisms and implications for the mucosal inflammatory diseases
Authors: Tulic M. K. , Piche T. , Verhasselt V.
Published: February 2016

The mucosal immune system (including airway, intestinal, oral and cervical epithelium) is an integrated network of tissues, cells and effector molecules that protect the host from environmental insults and infections at mucous membrane surfaces. Dysregulation of immunity at mucosal surfaces is thought to be responsible for the alarming global increase in mucosal inflammatory diseases such as those affecting the gastrointestinal (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome) and respiratory (asthma, allergy and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder) system. Although immune regulation has been well‐studied in isolated mucosal sites, the extent of the immune interaction between anatomically distant mucosal sites has been mostly circumstantial and the focus of much debate. With novel technology and more precise tools to examine histological and functional changes in tissues, today there is increased appreciation of the ‘common mucosal immunological system’ originally proposed by Bienenstock nearly 40 years ago. Evidence is amounting which shows that stimulation of one mucosal compartment can directly and significantly impact distant mucosal site, however the mechanisms are unknown. Today, we are only beginning to understand the complexity of relationships and communications that exist between different mucosal compartments. A holistic approach to studying the mucosal immune system as an integrated global organ is imperative for future advances in understanding mucosal immunology and for future treatment of chronic diseases. In this review, we particularly focus on the latest evidence and the mechanisms operational in driving the lung–gut cross‐talk.
Liver fat in adults with GH deficiency: comparison to matched controls and the effect of GH replacement
Authors: Meienberg Fabian , Yee Michael , Johnston Desmond , Cox Jeremy , Robinson Stephen , Bell Jimmy D. , Thomas E. Louise , Taylor‐Robinson Simon D. , Godsland Ian
Published: February 2016

Context

Existing data regarding the association between growth hormone deficiency (GHD) and liver fat content are conflicting.

Objective

We aimed (i) to assess intrahepatocellular lipid (IHCL) content in hypopituitary adults with GHD compared to matched controls and (ii) to evaluate the effect of growth hormone (GH) replacement on IHCL content.

Design

Cross‐sectional comparison and controlled intervention study.

Patients, Participants

Cross‐sectional comparison: Twenty‐two hypopituitary adults with GHD and 44 healthy controls matched for age, BMI, gender and ethnicity. Intervention study: nine GHD patients starting GH replacement (GH Rx group) and nine GHD patients not starting replacement therapy (non‐GH Rx group).

Intervention

Intervention study: GH replacement for 6 months in the GH Rx group, dosage was titrated to achieve normal IGF‐1 levels.

Main Outcome Measures

HCL content determined by proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS).

Results

Cross‐sectional Comparison: There was no difference in IHCL content between GHD patients and healthy controls (1·89% (0·30, 4·03) vs 1·14% (0·22, 2·32); P = 0·2), and the prevalence of patients with hepatic steatosis (IHCL of ≥ 5·56%) was similar in the two groups (22·7% vs 15·9%; chi‐square probability = 0·4). Intervention study: The change in IHCL content over 6 months did not differ between the GH Rx group and the non‐GH Rx group (−0·63 ± 4·53% vs + 0·11 ± 1·46%; P = 0·6).

Conclusions

In our study, liver fat content and the prevalence of hepatic steatosis did not differ between hypopituitary adults with GHD and matched controls. In GHD patients, GH replacement had no effect on liver fat content.
Constructive Visual Analytics for Text Similarity Detection
Authors: Abdul‐Rahman A. , Roe G. , Olsen M. , Gladstone C. , Whaling R. , Cronk N. , Morrissey R. , Chen M.
Published: February 2016

Detecting similarity between texts is a frequently encountered text mining task. Because the measurement of similarity is typically composed of a number of metrics, and some measures are sensitive to subjective interpretation, a generic detector obtained using machine learning often has difficulties balancing the roles of different metrics according to the semantic context exhibited in a specific collection of texts. In order to facilitate human interaction in a visual analytics process for text similarity detection, we first map the problem of pairwise sequence comparison to that of image processing, allowing patterns of similarity to be visualized as a 2D pixelmap. We then devise a visual interface to enable users to construct and experiment with different detectors using primitive metrics, in a way similar to constructing an image processing pipeline. We deployed this new approach for the identification of commonplaces in 18th‐century literary and print culture. Domain experts were then able to make use of the prototype system to derive new scholarly discoveries and generate new hypotheses.
A novel holistic framework for genetic‐based captive‐breeding and reintroduction programs
Authors: Attard C.R.M. , Möller L.M. , Sasaki M. , Hammer M.P. , Bice C.M. , Brauer C.J. , Carvalho D.C. , Harris J.O. , Beheregaray L.B.
Published: February 2016

Research in reintroduction biology has provided a greater understanding of the often limited success of species reintroductions and highlighted the need for scientifically rigorous approaches in reintroduction programs. We examined the recent genetic‐based captive‐breeding and reintroduction literature to showcase the underuse of the genetic data gathered. We devised a framework that takes full advantage of the genetic data through assessment of the genetic makeup of populations before (past component of the framework), during (present component), and after (future component) captive‐breeding and reintroduction events to understand their conservation potential and maximize their success. We empirically applied our framework to two small fishes: Yarra pygmy perch (Nannoperca obscura) and southern pygmy perch (Nannoperca australis). Each of these species has a locally adapted and geographically isolated lineage that is endemic to the highly threatened lower Murray–Darling Basin in Australia. These two populations were rescued during Australia's recent decade‐long Millennium Drought, when their persistence became entirely dependent on captive‐breeding and subsequent reintroduction efforts. Using historical demographic analyses, we found differences and similarities between the species in the genetic impacts of past natural and anthropogenic events that occurred in situ, such as European settlement (past component). Subsequently, successful maintenance of genetic diversity in captivity—despite skewed brooder contribution to offspring—was achieved through carefully managed genetic‐based breeding (present component). Finally, genetic monitoring revealed the survival and recruitment of released captive‐bred offspring in the wild (future component). Our holistic framework often requires no additional data collection to that typically gathered in genetic‐based breeding programs, is applicable to a wide range of species, advances the genetic considerations of reintroduction programs, and is expected to improve with the use of next‐generation sequencing technology.
No benefit of extended mesenteric resection with central vascular ligation in right‐sided colon cancer
Authors: Olofsson F. , Buchwald P. , Elmståhl S. , Syk I.
Published: February 2016

Aim

The optimal extent of mesenteric resection in colon cancer surgery is not known. We have previously shown an increased mortality associated with wider mesenteric resection in right hemicolectomy. This study compares the short‐ and long‐term outcome in three variations of right hemicolectomy based on the position of the vascular ligature in the mesentery.

Method

In all, 2084 cases of cancer in the caecum or ascending colon were identified in the Swedish Colorectal Cancer Registry and categorized according to the position of the vascular ligature: central ligation of ileocolic vessels (ICVs) ± right colic vessels (n = 390), central ligation of ICVs + right branch of middle colic vessels (MCVs) (n = 1360) and central ligation of ICVs + central ligation of MCVs (n = 334).

Results

Neither 3‐year overall survival, 3‐year disease‐free survival nor local recurrence rate differed between the groups (P = 0.604; P = 0.247; P = 0.237). There was still no difference after multivariate analysis adjusted for age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, TNM stage and adjuvant therapy. An increased peri‐operative mortality, however, was observed in extended mesenteric resections, increasing from 0.8% in non‐extended to 3.6% in more extended resection, P = 0.025.

Conclusion

The study showed no survival benefit by more extended mesenteric resection, indicating that there is no need to extend the mesenteric resection to involve the MCVs in cancer of the caecum or ascending colon. On the contrary, increased peri‐operative mortality by more extensive mesenteric resection was noted suggesting that a more conservative approach may be favourable.
WHEN IS A GOOD TIME TO RAISE THE MINIMUM WAGE?
Authors: Lundstrom Samuel M.
Published: February 2016

I analyze changes in the target efficiency of the federal minimum wage over the past 25 years. Using static simulation methods I find that minimum wage target efficiency is currently close to its 25‐year peak—of the total monetary benefits generated by a 12% increase in the federal minimum wage, 16.8% would flow to workers in poverty. This exceeds the least target efficient year over this period by 4.7 percentage points and is only 0.6 percentage points below the peak. Furthermore, I find a very strong positive relationship between minimum wage target efficiency and the real federal minimum wage. The implication is that, from an efficiency standpoint, a good time to raise the minimum wage is when it is already high. This discovery raises the possibility that the minimum wage increases the employment of low‐skilled poor individuals relative to the employment of low‐skilled non‐poor individuals. Moreover, this discovery may bolster the rationale for an indexed minimum wage whereby it is prevented from falling to less efficient levels. (JEL J21, J31, J38)
Exploring Trading Strategies and Their Effects in the Foreign Exchange Market
Authors: Aloud Monira , Fasli Maria
Published: February 2016

One of the most critical issues that developers face in developing automatic systems for electronic markets is that of endowing the agents with appropriate trading strategies. In this article, we examine the problem in the foreign exchange (FX) market, and we use an agent‐based market simulation to examine which trading strategies lead to market states in which the stylized facts (statistical properties) of the simulation match those of the FX market transactions data. Our goal is to explore the emergence of the stylized facts, when the simulated market is populated with agents using different strategies: a variation of the zero intelligence with a constraint strategy, the zero‐intelligence directional‐change event strategy, and a genetic programming‐based strategy. A series of experiments were conducted, and the results were compared with those of a high‐frequency FX transaction data set. Our results show that the zero‐intelligence directional‐change event agents best reproduce and explain the properties observed in the FX market transactions data. Our study suggests that the observed stylized facts could be the result of introducing a threshold that triggers the agents to respond to periodic patterns in the price time series. The results can be used to develop decision support systems for the FX market.
Quantitative CT indexes are significantly associated with exercise oxygen desaturation in interstitial lung disease related to systemic sclerosis
Authors: Ariani Alarico , Aiello Marina , Silva Mario , Alfieri Veronica , Bonati Elisa , Lumetti Federica , Delsante Giovanni , Sverzellati Nicola , Chetta Alfredo
Published: February 2016

Introduction

Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) is the first cause of death related to Systemic Sclerosis (SSc). The ILD severity can be assessed with clinical, functional and radiological outcome. Nevertheless none of them is completely validated in clinical practice. Recently a new radiological evaluation based on Quantitative Computed Tomography Indexes (QCTI) was proposed on the basis of voxel‐wise quantitative analysis of chest CT.

Objectives

The main aim of this study is to verify if QCTI can identify SSc patients with significant oxygen desaturation during the 6 min walking test. The discrimination performance of QCTI and the other clinical, functional and radiological outcomes was also investigated.

Methods

Sixty three SSc patients were enrolled and underwent clinical, functional and radiological assessment. Inspiratory chest CT of each patient was evaluated with both a visual score and a dedicated software for segmentation of the lung in order to obtained QCTI.

Results

Patients with or without severe oxygen desaturation showed different QCTI, CT visual score and functional outcomes (P < 0.05). In particular, QCTI and functional outcomes showed almost the same discriminating ability.

Conclusion

QCTI detect SSc patients with a severe oxygen desaturation after exercise as well as functional and other radiological outcomes. It is remarkable that QCTI are the only outcome without intra‐ or inter‐reader variability because they are obtained with an algorithm. These findings bring out the QCTI as a concrete tool in SSc‐ILD assessment.
Novel seasonal land cover associations for eastern North American forest birds identified through dynamic species distribution modelling
Authors: Zuckerberg Benjamin , Fink Daniel , La Sorte Frank A. , Hochachka Wesley M. , Kelling Steve
Published: February 2016

Aim

Plasticity in migratory and foraging behaviour allows species to exploit dynamic and novel habitats. This is especially important during seasonal transitions as species track shifting environmental resources and potentially associate with a diversity of habitats. Although land cover associations are thought to vary across seasons for many species, the prevalence of these dynamic relationships across species’ distributions are unknown. Our goal was to quantify the extent to which flexibility in seasonal land cover associations exists among forest breeding birds with differing migratory and foraging strategies.

Location

Eastern United States.

Methods

We used data on bird occurrence from eBird in conjunction with dynamic species distribution modelling to quantify seasonal plasticity in species land cover associations for 43 forest breeding bird species. We employed a multi‐scaled approach relying on adaptive regression models to quantify spatiotemporally varying associations between species’ occurrences and land cover diversity and composition. We estimated how these associations varied from spring to autumn and across multiple regions.

Results

Species demonstrated seasonal shifts in land cover associations and, despite being forest dependent species, were more likely to occur in human‐modified landscapes during seasonal transitions. From spring to autumn, Neotropical migrants were more likely to occur in landscapes of lower land cover diversity, but showed the highest seasonal plasticity in land cover associations. Residents and temperate migrants occurred in landscapes with a higher diversity of land cover, but were less variable in their seasonal land cover associations. Following summer, migratory and insectivorous birds took advantage of a wider array of land cover ranging from open to developed landscapes.

Main conclusions

Species move across landscapes in a seasonally dynamic fashion, and yet concepts of the ecological niche and species–environmental relationships are often considered static. Dynamic species distribution modelling can uncover seasonally complex species–environment relationships, and identify novel aspects of habitat associations critical for supporting full life cycle research and conservation efforts.
Monolingual and bilingual children's social preferences for monolingual and bilingual speakers
Authors: Byers‐Heinlein Krista , Behrend Douglas A. , Said Lyakout Mohamed , Girgis Helana , Poulin‐Dubois Diane
Published: February 2016

Past research has shown that young monolingual children exhibit language‐based social biases: they prefer native language to foreign language speakers. The current research investigated how children's language preferences are influenced by their own bilingualism and by a speaker's bilingualism. Monolingual and bilingual 4‐ to 6‐year‐olds heard pairs of adults (a monolingual and a bilingual, or two monolinguals) and chose the person with whom they wanted to be friends. Whether they were from a largely monolingual or a largely bilingual community, monolingual children preferred monolingual to bilingual speakers, and native language to foreign language speakers. In contrast, bilingual children showed similar affiliation with monolingual and bilingual speakers, as well as for monolingual speakers using their dominant versus non‐dominant language. Exploratory analyses showed that individual bilinguals displayed idiosyncratic patterns of preference. These results reveal that language‐based preferences emerge from a complex interaction of factors, including preference for in‐group members, avoidance of out‐group members, and characteristics of the child as they relate to the status of the languages within the community. Moreover, these results have implications for bilingual children's social acceptance by their peers.
Understanding the Sunni Realignment inIraq with Complexity Theory
Authors: Maye Diane L.
Published: February 2016

Concurrent to the surge of U.S. forces in Iraq between 2006 and 2008, Sunni tribesmen in the U.S. Marine‐controlled western Anbar province of Iraq experienced an “awakening” movement, which led them to side with U.S. and coalition forces. The Sunni Awakening demonstrates that individuals will often realign because of betrayal and opportunities for advancement. It also demonstrates that individual motives can have macrolevel social consequences. Complexity theory suggests that political factions will realign based on individual considerations that then develop into macrolevel movements. Complexity theory also combines both agency (in terms of microbehaviors) and structure (in terms of initial conditions). An important concept within the complexity literature is the idea of “critical mass.” Theories of self‐organization suggest that individual considerations aggregate to a point of critical mass to become macrolevel movements. In the case of Iraq, you had individuals who decided as individuals to align with the Americans, but the macrolevel Awakening movement did not gain momentum until enough individuals had joined the movement. This pattern suggests that complexity theory can be used as a framework for understanding how critical mass is achieved in realignment.
Eusocial bee male aggregations: spatially and temporally separated but genetically homogenous
Authors: dos Santos Charles Fernando , Francisco Flávio de Oliveira , Imperatriz‐Fonseca Vera Lucia , Arias Maria Cristina
Published: February 2016

Male insects mostly aggregate near sites where sexually reproductive virgin females are found and where mating occur. This reproductive strategy is quite common in Hymenoptera and appears to decrease the chances of inbreeding. In Hymenoptera, inbred mating frequently result in sterile diploid males. Production of diploid males may reach high proportions in small bee populations, and it usually lead to population extinction within a small number of generations. Aggregation of males during a short period of time allow the mixing of local genes. In this paper, we analyzed male aggregations of Tetragonisca angustula (Latreille) (Hymenoptera: Apidae), a eusocial stingless bee, using microsatellite molecular markers. We used population genetic statistics for haplodiploid organisms to address genetic structuring among male aggregations. Our findings indicate that, in general, male aggregations of T. angustula occurring over short time scales and in close proximity are genetically homogeneous as if a single aggregation. We conclude that T. angustula males randomly disperse within a population looking for mating chances rather than settle on a distinct male aggregation. This behavior seems to contribute to the reduction of inbreeding in this species.
Presence of weed fungus in a non‐social beetle–fungus cultivation mutualism
Authors: TOKI WATARU , KAWAKITA ATSUSHI , TOGASHI KATSUMI
Published: February 2016

1. Farming by non‐human organisms has arisen independently in several animal lineages, allowing them to survive on food sources that are otherwise difficult to access. However, agricultural gardens are prone to invasion by parasites that overgrow cultivars in the absence of host animals. The presence of garden parasites and associated host adaptations are well studied in advanced fungal agriculture practised by social insects (ants, termites, and ambrosia beetles), but the impact of garden parasites in more primitive forms of agriculture is poorly known. The aim of the present study was to report the presence of weed fungi in fungal gardens of the non‐social lizard beetle Doubledaya bucculenta Lewis (Coleoptera: Erotylidae: Languriinae), which cultivates the yeast Wickerhamomyces anomalus (E.C. Hansen) Kurtzman, Robnett & Bas.‐Powers in the internodes of recently dead bamboo culms.

2. The filamentous fungi Arthrinium spp., Fusarium spp., and an unidentified species were isolated from the inner wall and insect‐made wall debris of bamboo internodes inhabited by the beetle.

3. When cultured together with the yeast in the absence of host larvae, Arthrinium sp.1 outcompeted the yeast, suggesting that this filamentous fungus can invade yeast gardens but is normally suppressed under natural conditions.

4. Rearing experiments showed that beetle larvae grew faster when grown on yeast cultures than when fed only Arthrinium sp.1.

5. These results suggest that Arthrinium sp.1 acts as a weed in the fungal gardens of D. bucculenta, inhibiting both growth of the beetle larvae and proliferation of the beneficial yeast.
Measuring floral resource availability for insect pollinators in temperate grasslands – a review
Authors: SZIGETI VIKTOR , KŐRÖSI ÁDÁM , HARNOS ANDREA , NAGY JÁNOS , KIS JÁNOS
Published: February 2016

1. The relationship between pollinators and flowering plants plays a crucial role in the function of terrestrial ecosystems. Although pollinators use floral nectar and pollen as food resources, no general methodology for floral resource availability estimates exists.

2. A brief review is provided on floral resource sampling methods frequently used in pollination studies. The focus is on how representative vegetation samples are both spatially and temporally, and how these are constrained by sampling effort.

3. Field studies investigating flowering plant abundance for insect pollinators in temperate grasslands were selected. We categorised the reviewed studies according to aims, sampling units, and count variables used and provide a descriptive summary on methodology. We also searched for trade‐offs between different aspects of sampling investment.

4. One hundred and fifty‐eight pollination studies were reviewed. Large methodological differences were found, and vegetation sampling was presented in many studies insufficiently. Sampling covered a small proportion (median: 0.69%) of the study sites, with long intervals (median: 30 days), and most studies lasted only a few years. The most often used count variables were indirect proxies of floral resources. Negative relationships were found in some of the different aspects of sampling, e.g. the proportion of site covered with sampling decreased with increasing site area.

5. By tailoring sampling methods to specific research questions, research effort should be optimally allocated to obtain proper spatio‐temporal resolution and data coverage. Guidelines were suggested to design sampling, e.g. to increase coverage and frequency. Further field work on optimising sampling techniques is mandatory.
PhD Students in the Entrepreneurial University ‐ Perceived Support for Academic Entrepreneurship
Authors: Bienkowska Dzamila , Klofsten Magnus , Rasmussen Einar
Published: February 2016

Universities are currently in the process of change and adaptation to shifting expectations that for example include closer engagement with businesses and increased facilitation of entrepreneurship among faculty and graduates. By supporting academic entrepreneurship, universities can address these expectations whilst also becoming more entrepreneurial institutions. However, more knowledge is needed on how this support provided by different levels in the university organisation is perceived by academics. This is particularly relevant in the case of PhD students because many of them will go on to become the next generation of senior faculty and because PhD education constitutes a considerable part of most universities’ activities with PhD students performing a large share of university research. Our study is based on survey responses of 464 PhD students from all faculties at one of the biggest universities in Sweden. The results show that the perceived support of commercialisation of research results varies at different hierarchical levels within the university. The score for perceived support from the highest level (central administration) did not differ much between the faculties, while significant differences were found at lower levels. We argue that variations between faculties and departments with regard to norms and cultures should be considered when stimulating entrepreneurial engagement, for example by using multiple channels of communication, as well as tailor‐made strategies and activities.
A framework for integrating thermal biology into fragmentation research
Authors: Tuff K. T. , Tuff T. , Davies K. F.
Published: February 2016

Habitat fragmentation changes thermal conditions in remnant patches, and thermal conditions strongly influence organism morphology, distribution, and activity patterns. However, few studies explore temperature as a mechanism driving ecological responses to fragmentation. Here we offer a conceptual framework that integrates thermal biology into fragmentation research to better understand individual, species, community, and ecosystem‐level responses to fragmentation. Specifically, the framework addresses how fragmentation changes temperature and how the effects of those temperature changes spread through the ecosystem, from organism response via thermal sensitivity, to changes in species distribution and activity patterns, to shifts in community structure following species' responses, and ultimately to changes in ecosystem functions. We place a strong emphasis on future research directions by outlining “Critical gaps” for each step of the framework. Empirical efforts to apply and test this framework promise new understanding of fragmentation's ecological consequences and new strategies for conservation in an increasingly fragmented and warmer world.
Intermediate activity of midge antifreeze protein is due to a tyrosine‐rich ice‐binding site and atypical ice plane affinity
Authors: Basu Koli , Wasserman Samantha S. , Jeronimo Paul S. , Graham Laurie A. , Davies Peter L.
Published: February 2016

An antifreeze protein (AFP) from a midge (Chironomidae) was recently discovered and modelled as a tightly wound disulfide‐braced solenoid with a surface‐exposed rank of stacked tyrosines. New isoforms of the midge AFP have been identified from RT‐PCR and are fully consistent with the model. Although they differ in the number of 10‐residue coils, the row of tyrosines that form the putative ice‐binding site is conserved. Recombinant midge AFP has been produced, and the properly folded form purified by ice affinity. This monomeric AFP has a distinct circular dichroism spectrum, a melting temperature between 35 and 50 °C and is fully renaturable on cooling. Mutagenesis of the middle tyrosine in the rank of seven eliminates antifreeze activity, whereas mutation of a tyrosine off this predicted ice‐binding face had no such effect. This AFP has unusual properties compared to other known AFPs. First, its freezing‐point depression activity is intermediate between that of the hyperactive and moderately active AFPs. As with hyperactive AFPs, when midge AFP‐bound ice crystals exceed their freezing‐point depression, ice grows explosively perpendicular to the c‐axis. However, midge AFP does not bind to the basal plane of ice as do hyperactive AFPs, but rather to a pyramidal plane that is at a shallower angle relative to the basal plane than binding planes of moderate AFPs. These properties distinguish midge AFP from all other ice‐binding proteins and the intermediate activity level fits well to the modest challenge of protecting newly emerged adult insects from late spring frosts.

Database

Nucleotide sequences of new midge AFP isoforms are available in the GenBank database under accession numbers KU094814–8. Sequences will be released after publication.
Life prediction based on weight‐averaged maximum shear strain range plane under multiaxial variable amplitude loading
Authors: Tao Z.‐Q. , Shang D.‐G. , Liu H. , Chen H.
Published: February 2016

Based on Wang and Brown's reversal counting method, a new approach to the determination of the critical plane is proposed by the defined plane with a weight‐averaged maximum shear strain range under multiaxial variable amplitude loading. According to the determined critical plane, a detailed procedure of multiaxial fatigue life prediction is introduced to predict lives in the low‐cycle multiaxial fatigue regime. The proposed approach is verified by two multiaxial fatigue damage models and Miner's linear cumulative damage law. The results showed that the proposed approach can effectively predict the orientation of the failure plane under multiaxial variable amplitude loading and give a satisfactory life prediction.
Independent Directors and Favoritism: When Multiple Board Affiliations Prevail in Mutual Fund Families
Authors: Lai Christine (Whuei‐wen)
Published: February 2016

I examine whether independent directors with multiple board affiliations (IDMAs) trade off the interests of one fund relative to another (fund favoritism) or whether they benefit fund shareholders by increasing the level of the board's expertise. Using a sample of mutual funds affiliated with the top 55 fund sponsors from 2002 to 2008, I find that the presence of IDMAs is negatively related to performance/resource shifting across funds within fund families. IDMAs appear to decrease fund fees, increase the return gap associated with the unobserved actions of fund managers, and facilitate the transfer of information across funds in a fund family.
Student Enrollment in World Languages:L'Égalité des Chances?
Authors: Baggett Hannah Carson
Published: February 2016

Students enrolled in world language classes experience many positive academic and developmental outcomes, and world language classes are often gateways to institutions of higher education in the United States. However, not all learners have access to world language classes. Differences in language class availability exist not only between school districts but also within individual districts. The purpose of this study was to explore world language offerings and middle and high school enrollment patterns across different school contexts in four large local education agencies in North Carolina during the 2013–2014 academic year. Findings indicated that more choices and levels of languages were offered in schools where 50% or more of the students were white. In addition, results from chi‐square tests revealed that African American and Latino male students were consistently underrepresented in world language classes. Implications for students and policy makers are discussed.