bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐term follow up of revascularization using platelet‐rich fibrin
Authors: Ray Herbert L , Marcelino Janel , Braga Raquel , Horwat Richard , Lisien Michael , Khaliq Shahryar
Published: June 2015

Introduction

Trauma is one of the primary causes of tooth loss and pulpal injury in adolescents and children. Prior to regenerative endodontics, treatment of necrotic, immature teeth with open apices was limited to long‐term calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) apexification and subsequent root canal therapy or extraction. Through revascularization, retention of these teeth can be achieved and the elimination of patient symptoms and the radiographic appearance of continued root development were obtained.

Case Review

This report illustrates a revascularization protocol through a case where platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) was utilized as an autologous scaffold for traumatized, necrotic, immature teeth with incomplete root development. Through consistent follow‐up reports, comprising of both clinical examination and radiographs, marked improvement in the condition of the traumatized tooth was noted.

Discussion

This case demonstrates the feasibility of utilizing PRF as an effective treatment protocol for traumatized teeth in lieu of traditional treatment protocols, such as long‐term calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) apexification or extraction. The choice of utilizing PRF, as opposed to other platelet concentrates, such as platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) or a blood clot, lies in PRF's ability to allow for a slow, long‐term release of autologous growth factors.
The nocturnal larvae of a specialist folivore perform better on Chromolaena odorata leaves from a shaded environment
Authors: Uyi Osariyekemwen O. , Zachariades Costas , Hill Martin P. , Conlong Des
Published: June 2015

Increasing evidence suggests that individuals of the same plant species occurring in different microhabitats often show a degree of phenotypic and phytochemical variation. Consequently, insect herbivores associated with such plant species must deal with environment‐mediated changes or variability in the traits of their host plants. In this study, we examined the effects of habitat condition (shaded vs. full‐sun habitats) on plant traits and leaf characteristics of the invasive alien plant, Chromolaena odorata (L.) King & Robinson (Asteraceae). In addition, the performance was evaluated in two generations of a specialist folivore, Pareuchaetes insulata (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiinae), on leaves obtained from both shaded and full‐sun habitats. The study was done in an area where the insect was introduced as a biological control agent. Leaves growing in shade were less tough, had higher water and nitrogen content, and lower total non‐structural carbohydrate, compared with leaves growing in full sun. Plants growing in shade had longer leaves and were taller, but above‐ground biomass was significantly reduced compared with plants growing in full sun. In both generations (parents and offspring), P. insulata developed faster and had larger pupal mass, increased growth rate, and higher fecundity when reared on shaded foliage compared with full‐sun foliage. Although immature survival and adult longevity did not differ between habitats, Maw's host suitability index indicated that shaded leaves were more suitable for the growth and reproduction of P. insulata. We suggest that the benefits obtained by P. insulata feeding on shaded foliage are associated with reduced toughness and enhanced nitrogen and water content of leaves. These results demonstrate that light‐mediated changes in plant traits and leaf characteristics can affect insect folivore performance.
Rates of piscivory predict pharyngeal jaw morphology in a piscivorous lineage of cichlid fishes
Authors: Burress Edward D. , Duarte Alejandro , Serra Wilson S. , Loureiro Marcelo
Published: June 2015

The pharyngeal jaw apparatus is a key innovation hypothesised to increase foraging efficiency and facilitate utilisation of novel resources among teleost fishes. Here, we tested whether dietary characteristics could predict pharyngeal jaw morphology among eight species of Neotropical Crenicichla. Additionally, we tested the hypothesis that pharyngeal jaws may impose a functional constraint on piscivory via pharyngeal gape. We quantified the shape of the lower pharyngeal jaw (LPJ) using linear and geometric morphometrics and quantified diet using the relative volumetric proportions of prey items. We used principal component analysis to describe major axes of variation in LPJ shape and dietary patterns. The major axis of dietary variation significantly predicted LPJ morphology, which was driven by a significant relationship between LPJ shape and rates of piscivory. We also found that rates of piscivory predicted size‐corrected LPJ depth. Size‐corrected pharyngeal gape also significantly predicted rates of piscivory such that pharyngeal jaws may constrain piscivory by limiting pharyngeal gape. Strong form‐to‐function linkage between pharyngeal morphology and trophic patterns suggests an adaptive quality of the pharyngeal apparatus but may also impose functional constraints when consumers must switch prey or when prey availability is temporally or spatially unpredictable.
Toxicity profile of repeated doses of PEG‐asparaginase incorporated into a pediatric‐type regimen for adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Aldoss Ibrahim , Douer Dan , Behrendt Carolyn E. , Chaudhary Preeti , Mohrbacher Ann , Vrona Janice , Pullarkat Vinod
Published: June 2015

Despite having been long regarded as too toxic for adult patients, pediatric‐like regimens containing L‐asparaginase have resulted in improved outcomes for adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). To characterize the spectrum of toxicity of repeated doses of polyethylene glycolated‐asparaginase (PEG‐asp) in adults, we reviewed all doses (2000 IU/m2) administered as part of a pediatric‐inspired regimen in adult ALL at our center. Subjects aged 18–60 yr with ALL (n = 152, 69.1% male) contributed 522 dose cycles to the study. Hepatotoxicity was the most common adverse event: grades 3–4 transaminitis and hyperbilirubinemia occurred in 53.9% and 23.7% of subjects, respectively. Hepatotoxicity was reversible; no cases of fulminate hepatic failure were observed. Other toxicities affecting at least 5% of subjects were grades 3–4 triglyceridemia in 50.9%, hypofibrinogenemia (<100 mg/dL) in 47.9%, clinical pancreatitis in 12.6%, venous thromboembolism in 11.2%, allergic reaction in 7.2%, and any grade bleeding in 5.3%. PEG‐asp was always discontinued after grades 3–4 pancreatitis or allergic reaction. Otherwise, toxicities did not preclude administration of additional cycles of the drug. Our results suggest that repeated PEG‐asp dosing is safe in adults aged 18–60 yr, even after occurrence of a drug‐related toxicity.
Perampanel efficacy and safety by gender: Subanalysis of phase III randomized clinical studies in subjects with partial seizures
Authors: Vazquez Blanca , Yang Haichen , Williams Betsy , Zhou Sharon , Laurenza Antonio
Published: June 2015

The antiepileptic drug (AED) perampanel is approved in ≥40 countries as adjunctive therapy for drug‐resistant partial seizures in patients with epilepsy. This post hoc analysis of pooled data from three phase III, double‐blind, randomized studies of perampanel examines between‐gender differences in perampanel efficacy and safety. Of the 1,478 subjects in the pooled analysis (719 male, 759 female), 1,109 were included in the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic analysis. Perampanel oral clearance was 17% lower in female than in male patients not receiving enzyme‐inducing AEDs. Pooled efficacy analysis revealed that seizure frequency was reduced with perampanel treatment regardless of gender; a greater numerical reduction in seizure frequency and increased responder rates occurred in female participants at perampanel doses of 4, 8, and 12 mg. Tolerability was similar between groups, although common adverse events such as dizziness and headache occurred more frequently in female subjects. Modest elevations in perampanel exposure in female patients may result in meaningful between‐gender differences in efficacy and safety; therefore, dosing should be individualized and clinical response monitored.
Changes in Performance of Shared and Unshared Songs Within and Between Years in the White‐crowned Sparrow
Authors: Poesel Angelika , Nelson Douglas A.
Published: June 2015

Song of passerine birds is one of the few animal signals that is learned and that improves with practice. Vocal practice is crucial early in life to perfect a song imitation, but it also occurs throughout life and may continue to improve aspects of song performance. Differences in song performance among males that share song types, that is sing structurally similar songs may be particularly salient to receivers. We here test the hypothesis that aspects of song performance improve in a songbird species that deletes song types from its repertoire early in the first breeding season to share their final single song type with territorial neighbours. Over 3 yrs, we recorded songs in a population of Puget Sound white‐crowned sparrows Zonotrichia leucophrys pugetensis and measured percentage peak performance and consistency thereof in all of the song types in each male's repertoire. We found that within the first year on territory, percentage peak performance was higher in shared than unshared songs but did not change from first to second recording. Contrary to the hypothesis that song performance improves with age, song performance declined from the first to the second year. Our results support the hypothesis that high‐performance singers share songs. We did not find support for song performance improving within or between years, like it does in some other songbird species.
Oligomeric assembly is required for chaperone activity of the filamentous γ‐prefoldin
Authors: Glover Dominic J. , Clark Douglas S.
Published: June 2015

Prefoldins (PFDs) are molecular chaperones with a distinctive jellyfish‐shape that have a general role in de novo protein folding in Archaea and in the biogenesis of cytoskeleton proteins in eukaryotes. In general, PFDs are hetero‐hexameric protein assemblies consisting of two α and four β subunits. However, a PFD variant called gamma‐prefoldin (γPFD), isolated from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Methanocaldococcus jannaschii, exhibits a unique filamentous structure that is composed of hundreds of monomeric subunits. In this study, we investigated the relationship between the morphology of the γPFD filament and its ability to prevent protein aggregation. A chaperone assay demonstrated that γPFD must be in a filamentous assembly for functional activity and the distal regions of the coiled‐coils are required for binding of non‐native proteins. Molecular dynamic simulations were used to model the interactions between in silico thermally denatured protein substrates and the coiled‐coils of a γPFD filament. During molecular dynamic simulations at 300 and 353 K, each coiled‐coil was highly flexible, enabling it to widen the central cavity of the filament to potentially capture various non‐native proteins. Docking molecular dynamic simulations of γPFD filaments with unfolded citrate synthase or insulin showed a size‐dependence between the substrate and the number of interacting coiled‐coils. To confirm this observation, we generated filaments containing specific numbers of subunits, and showed that between six and eight γPFD subunits are required for chaperone activity to prevent citrate synthase from thermal aggregation. These results provide insights into structure–function relationships of oligomeric chaperones and illuminate the potential role of γPFD in its native environment.
Successful reproduction of common carp Cyprinus carpio in irrigation waterways
Authors: Adámek Z. , Anton Pardo M. , Vilizzi L. , Roberts J.
Published: June 2015

Some key reproductive characters of invasive common carp, Cyprinus carpio L., were studied in an irrigation system of south‐eastern Australia. Spawning occurred on a variety of natural (i.e. submerged vegetation, plant debris and stones) and artificial substrates, and the presence of 0+ individuals was an indicator of spawning success. Compared with other C. carpio stocks worldwide, the lower minimum length at maturity reflected the higher water temperatures of the region, whereas the relatively lower mean pseudo‐gonadosomatic indices were attributed to less diverse food resources than those available in floodplain areas. The successful reproduction of feral C. carpio in irrigation waterways confirms its high adaptability and plasticity of traits and its classification into the phytolithophil guild, as opposed to the phytophil wild form. The findings of the present study should be given careful consideration in view of preventative measures for further spread of invasive C. carpio in similar waterways worldwide, but also for the enhancement of the species' fisheries in some man‐made reservoirs.
Klinkenberg gas slippage measurements as a means for shale pore structure characterization
Authors: Letham E. A. , Bustin R. M.
Published: June 2015

Established techniques that have been successfully used to characterize pore systems in conventional reservoir rocks lack the resolution and scalability required to adequately characterize the nano‐ to micrometer scale pore systems found in shale and cannot be applied on stressed samples. We have therefore investigated the utility ofKlinkenberg gas slippage measurements for shale pore structure characterization. In contrast to other approaches, slippage measurements characterize the effective porosity of core samples and can be applied at stress conditions experienced in the reservoir during production. Slippage measurements on horizontally and vertically oriented samples from theEagleFordShaleFormation,Texas,USA, at a range of stress states revealed two orders of magnitude in slippage variation over five orders of magnitude permeability range. Slippage measurements are negatively correlated with permeability and follow similar trends to those found in other studies on higher permeability rocks. The samples had varying degrees of slippage anisotropy, which allowed interpretation of the relative contribution of tortuosity and pore size to permeability anisotropy. Slippage and therefore average effective pore size was found to vary up to one order of magnitude at a given permeability, warranting investigation of the significance this might have on flow properties and ultimately hydrocarbon production from shale.
Cutaneous epithelioid malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour: a clinicopathological analysis of 11 cases
Authors: Luzar Boštjan , Shanesmith Rebecca , Ramakrishnan Rathi , Fisher Cyril , Calonje Eduardo
Published: June 2015

Aims

Epithelioid malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour (E‐MPNST) is a distinctive variant of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour characterized by the predominance of epithelioid cells, diffuse S100 positivity and infrequent association with neurofibromatosis type 1. The aim of this study was to further delineate clinicopathological features of cutaneous E‐MPNST, correlate them with disease outcome and discuss differential diagnosis.

Methods and results

We analysed 11 cutaneous E‐MPNSTs (six males, five females, median age 49 years, median size 1.6 cm). Tumours showed a predilection for lower extremities (45%) and trunk (45%), followed by upper extremity (9%). Follow‐up was available for nine of 11 patients (range 24–100 months, median 52 months). Four patients had an uneventful clinical course (44%), two developed local recurrence(s) (22%) and three died due to disseminated disease (33%). No histological parameters were found to predict local recurrence(s), development of distant metastases or disease outcome, including size, percentage of epithelioid component, number of mitoses per 10 high‐power fields, degree of nuclear atypia or site of occurrence (dermis, dermis/subcutis, subcutis) (P > 0.05). Immunohistochemically, all tumours were diffusely S100‐positive, with a subset displaying loss of integrase interactor 1 (INI1) expression (50%).

Conclusions

Cutaneous E‐MPNST has the potential to pursue an aggressive clinical course, associated with wide dissemination and unfavourable disease outcome.
Pleomorphic adenoma‐like tumour of the breast
Authors: Rakha Emad A , Aleskandarany Mohammed A , Samaka Rehab M , Hodi Zsolt , Lee Andrew H S , Ellis Ian O
Published: June 2015

Aims

Pleomorphic adenoma (PA) of the breast is a rare tumour seen usually in postmenopausal women. Although PA of the salivary glands (SG) is recognized to be a benign tumour, the nature and biology of similar tumours seen in the breast remains to be defined. The aim of this study was to describe PA of the breast that was reported on core biopsy as an invasive matrix‐producing metaplastic breast carcinoma (MBC).

Methods and results

A core biopsy from a clinically malignant retroareolar mass showed mildly atypical polygonal cells with surrounding myxoid stroma. Immunohistochemistry showed expression of basal and luminal cytokeratins, but oestrogen receptor, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) and myoepithelial markers were negative. The excision specimen showed similar features, but in addition the stroma showed cartilage and bone. Also it was clear that the lesion was circumscribed and merged with a sclerosed papillary lesion consistent with what has been described as mammary PA.

Conclusion

This lesion shows an overlap of morphology and immunophenotype with SG‐PA and with MBC. The majority of mammary PAs have a benign behaviour, but local recurrence and development of carcinoma occur. We propose a new terminology of pleomorphic adenoma‐like tumour of the breast to reflect the uncertain nature of these tumours and help guide management decisions.
HLA class II susceptibility pattern for type 1 diabetes (T1D) in an Iranian population
Authors: Kiani J. , Hajilooi M. , Furst D. , Rezaei H. , Shahryari‐Hesami S. , Kowsarifard S. , Zamani A. , Solgi G.
Published: June 2015

This study aimed to determine the HLA‐DRB1/HLA‐DQB1 susceptibility and protection pattern for type 1 diabetes (T1D) in a population from Hamadan, north‐west of Iran. A total of 133 patients with T1D were tested for HLA‐DRB1 and HLA‐DQB1 alleles using PCR‐SSP compared to 100 ethnic‐matched healthy controls. Alleles and haplotypes frequencies were compared between both groups. The most susceptible alleles for disease were HLA‐DRB1*03:01, DRB1*04:02, DQB1*02:01 and DQB1*03:02, and protective alleles were HLA‐DRB1*07:01, *11:01, *13:01, *14:01 and DRB1*15 and HLA‐DQB1*06:01, *06:02 and *06:03. Haplotype analysis revealed that patients with T1D had higher frequencies of DRB1*03:01–DQB1*02:01 (OR = 4.86, P < 10−7) and DRB1*04:02–DQB1*03:02 (OR = 9.93, P < 10−7) and lower frequencies of DRB1*07:01–DQB1*02:01 (P = 0.0005), DRB1*11:01–DQB1*03:01 (P = 0.001), DRB1*13:01–DQB1*06:03 (P = 0.002) and DRB1*15–DQB1*06:01 (P = 0.001) haplotypes compared to healthy controls. Heterozygote combination of both susceptible haplotypes (DR3/DR4) confers the highest risk for T1D (RR = 18.80, P = 4 × 10−5). Additionally, patients with homozygote diplotype, DR3/DR3 and DR4/DR4, showed a similar risk with less extent to heterozygote combination (P = 0.0004 and P = 0.01, respectively). Our findings not only confirm earlier reports from Iranians but also are in line with Caucasians and partly with Asians and some African patients with T1D. Remarkable differences were the identification of DRB1*04:01–DQB1*03:02, DRB1*07:01–DQB1*03:03 and DRB1*16–DQB1*05:02 as neutral and DRB1*13:01–DQB1*06:03 as the most protective haplotypes in this study.
High neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio predicts poor clinical outcome in patients with castration‐resistant prostate cancer treated with docetaxel chemotherapy
Authors: Yao Akihisa , Sejima Takehiro , Iwamoto Hideto , Masago Toshihiko , Morizane Shuichi , Honda Masashi , Takenaka Atsushi
Published: June 2015

Objective

To evaluate the prognostic significance of the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio in patients receiving chemotherapy with docetaxel for castration‐resistant prostate cancer.

Methods

A total of 57 castration‐resistant prostate cancer patients treated between 2009 and 2014 were included in the present retrospective study. All patient data, including clinicopathological factors, were assessed. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression models were used to predict overall survival and progression‐free survival after chemotherapy initiation.

Results

The median overall survival and progression‐free survival were determined as 19.0 months (range 1–61 months) and 10.0 months (range 1–56 months), respectively. The cut‐off level of the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio was set as the median value of 3.5 among all patients in this study. In Kaplan–Meier analysis, the median overall survival and progression‐free survival were shorter in patients with a high neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio compared with those with a low neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (15 vs 20 months, P = 0.0125; and 9.5 vs 15 months, P = 0.0132, respectively). The overall survival and progression‐free survival periods in patients with a high neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio were significantly shorter than those of patients with a low neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (P = 0.0178 and 0.0176, respectively). In the multivariate analysis, a high neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio was an independent predictor of overall survival and progression‐free survival (hazard ratio 2.728, 95% confidence interval 1.05–7.09, P = 0.039; and hazard ratio 2.376, 95% confidence interval 1.12–5.06, P = 0.024, respectively).

Conclusion

The present study results suggest that the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio is a useful prognostic factor in patients with castration‐resistant prostate cancer treated by docetaxel chemotherapy. These findings might be useful in determining treatment strategies in the future.
Using a prime and pull approach, lentivector vaccines expressing Ag85A induce immunogenicity but fail to induce protection against Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette–Guérin challenge in mice
Authors: Britton Gary , MacDonald Douglas C. , Brown Jeremy S. , Collins Mary K. , Goodman Anna L.
Published: June 2015

Although bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) is an established vaccine with excellent efficacy against disseminated Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in young children, efficacy in adults suffering from respiratory tuberculosis (TB) is suboptimal. Prime‐boost viral vectored vaccines have been shown to induce effective immune responses and lentivectors (LV) have been shown to improve mucosal immunity in the lung. A mucosal boost to induce local immunogenicity is also referred to as a ‘pull’ in a prime and pull approach, which has been found to be a promising vaccine strategy. The majority of infants worldwide receive BCG immunization through current vaccine protocols. We therefore aimed to investigate the role of a boost (or pull) immunization with an LV vaccine expressing the promising TB antigen (Ag85A). We immunized BALB/c mice subcutaneously with BCG or an LV vaccine expressing a nuclear factor‐κB activator vFLIP together with Ag85A (LV vF/85A), then boosted with intranasal LV vF/85A. Prime and pull immunization with LV85A induced significantly enhanced CD8+ and CD4+ T‐cell responses in the lung, but did not protect against intranasal BCG challenge. In contrast, little T‐cell response in the lung was seen when the prime vaccine was BCG, and intranasal vF/85A provided no additional protection against mucosal BCG infection. Our study demonstrates that not all LV prime and pull approaches may be successful against TB in man and careful antigen and immune activator selection is therefore required.
Predicting Maternal Resolution of Preterm Birth at One Month Corrected Age
Authors: Yaari Maya , Millo Inbal , Harel Ayelet , Friedlander Edwa , Bar‐Oz Benjamin , Eventov‐Friedman Smadar , Mankuta David , Yirmiya Nurit
Published: June 2015

Early maternal resolution with preterm birth was assessed at one month corrected age (CA), and potential maternal and infant characteristics that may be associated with early resolution were examined. Fifty‐five mothers of preterm infants (≤34 weeks) participated. Data regarding pregnancy, prenatal risk, delivery, infant's medical risk, maternal well‐being status, and infant's early developmental status were collected. Resolution was examined using the Reaction to Diagnosis Interview (RDI). A total of 38.2% of the mothers were classified as resolved. Only completion of antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) treatment and high prenatal risk significantly predicted maternal resolution. Early maternal resolution of preterm birth is associated with early knowledge regarding the preterm birth.
Vocal Coordination During Early Parent–Infant Interactions Predicts Language Outcome in Infant Siblings of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Northrup Jessie B. , Iverson Jana M.
Published: June 2015

This study examined vocal coordination during mother–infant interactions in the infant siblings (high‐risk infants; HR) of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a population at heightened risk for developing language delays (LDs). Vocal coordination between mothers and HR infants was compared to a group of low‐risk (LR; no first‐ or second‐degree relative with ASD) dyads and used to predict later language development. Nine‐month‐old infants were video‐taped at home playing with their mothers, and interactions were coded for the frequency and timing of vocalizations. Percent infant simultaneous speech was predictive of later LD, and dyads with LD infants were less coordinated with one another in average latency to respond than dyads with non‐delayed (ND) infants. The degree of coordination between mothers and infants on this variable predicted a continuous measure of language development in the third year. This research underscores the importance of understanding early development in the context of interaction.
ArchiBabel: Tracing the Writing Architecture Project in Architectural Education
Authors: Lappin Sarah A. , Erk Gül Kaçmaz , Martire Agustina
Published: June 2015

Though much recent scholarship has investigated the potential of writing in creative practice (including visual arts, drama, even choreography), there are few models in the literature which discuss writing in the context of architectural education. This article aims to address this dearth of pedagogical research, analysing the cross‐disciplinary Writing Architecture Project based in the undergraduate course of Queens University Belfast's School of Architecture. Over the course of four years, teaching staff, in partnership with the university's Learning Development Service, technicians and specialist librarians, have addressed an unfortunately persistent struggle for both architecture students and professionals alike to research and construct argument in written form. The article examines the current problem as identified in the literature before analysing the efficacy of the variety of teaching methods used in the Writing Architecture Project, with conclusions about the project's success and continuing challenges.
Art Conquers All? Herbert Read's Education through Art
Authors: Barchana‐Lorand Dorit
Published: June 2015

Herbert Read's Education through Art (henceforth ETA) is a pioneering attempt to provide empirical evidence for the need for art in the public school system. Rooting for art education, Read applies the conclusions of the newly evolving psychological research to his thesis on education, which he holds to be a contemporary revival of Plato's educational theory. Psychological research proves, Read believes, that art is required for the healthy cognitive and emotional development of the child, thereby creating a stable and productive society. ‘Education through art’ nurtures each individual's potential, so that every professional direction one would later take would be ‘art'. Since its publication in 1943, art‐education enthusiasts seem to hold that Read was on the right track, but that ETA suffers from a lack of evidence – a mere technicality that can be amended when research advances. Contrariwise, I argue that Read's thesis is inherently problematic, rather than empirically inaccurate. Psychological research may never suffice for the justification of art education, if ‘art education’ is both substituted for ‘creativity’ and expected to produce testable – immediate and quantifiable – results. My interest is not only in Read's theory per se, but in this form of justification. To wit, the discussion examines ETA as a case study in the empirical justification of art education.
Cold tolerance, and not earlier arrival on breeding grounds, explains why males winter further north in an Arctic‐breeding songbird
Authors: Macdonald Christie A. , McKinnon Emily A. , Gilchrist H. Grant , Love Oliver P.
Published: June 2015

Sex biases in distributions of migratory birds during the non‐breeding season are widespread; however, the proximate mechanisms contributing to broad‐scale sex‐ratio variation are not well understood. We analyzed a long‐term winter‐banding dataset in combination with spring migration data from individuals tracked by using geolocators to test three hypotheses for observed variation in sex‐ratios in wintering flocks of snow buntingsPlectrophenax nivalis. We quantified relevant weather conditions in winter (temperature, snowfall and snow depth) at each banding site each year and measured body size and condition (fat scores) of individual birds (n > 5500). We also directly measured spring migration distance for 17 individuals by using light‐level geolocators. If the distribution pattern of birds in winter is related to interactions between individual body size and thermoregulation, then larger bodied birds (males) should be found in colder sites (body size hypothesis). Males may also winter closer to breeding grounds to reduce migration distance for early arrival at breeding sites (arrival timing hypothesis). Finally, males may be socially dominant over females, and thus exclude females from high‐quality wintering sites (social dominance hypothesis). We found support for the body size hypothesis, in that colder and snowier weather predicted both larger body size and higher proportions of males banded. Direct tracking revealed that males did not winter significantly closer to their breeding site, despite being slightly further north on average than females from the same breeding population. We found some evidence for social dominance, in that females tended to carry more fat than males, potentially indicating lower habitat quality for females. Global climatic warming may reduce temperature constraints on females and smaller‐bodied males, resulting in broad‐scale changes in distributional patterns. Whether this has repercussions for individual fitness, and therefore population demography, is an important area of future research.
Geographical origins, migration patterns and refugia of Sibbaldia procumbens, an arctic–alpine plant with a fragmented range
Authors: Allen Geraldine A. , Marr Kendrick L. , McCormick Laurie J. , Hebda Richard J.
Published: June 2015

Aim

Many plants, especially at high latitudes, have both widespread and highly discontinuous geographical distributions. To increase understanding of how such patterns originate, we examine genetic patterns in the arctic–alpine plant Sibbaldia procumbens. We evaluate the contributions of refugia and the role of long‐distance dispersal in shaping the current range of this species.

Location

Northern Hemisphere, especially North America.

Methods

We sampled Sibbaldia from 176 localities, including 168 for S. pro‐cumbens. We analysed sequence variation in three plastid DNA non‐coding regions (the atpI–atpH and trnL–trnF intergenic spacers and the trnL intron), performed Bayesian phylogenetic analyses and statistical parsimony analyses on the combined sequences, and analysed the geographical patterns of haplotype distribution and genetic diversity using data from all populations.

Results

Sibbaldia procumbens probably originated in the mountains of South and East Asia. We identified highly distinct clades in Europe and North America, which overlapped on oceanic islands of the North Atlantic indicating long‐distance dispersal capability. The North American clade included two lineages, one in California and the other widely distributed across the continent and North Atlantic. Haplotype diversity in the latter lineage was markedly higher to the south, suggesting mid–late Pleistocene southward displacement of North American populations with subsequent migration northwards into previously glaciated regions. In Europe, disjunct geographical regions generally harboured distinct haplotypes.

Main conclusions

Multiple Pleistocene refugia for S. procumbens occurred in both North America and Europe. North American refugia existed in California and in the southern Rocky Mountains, but in contrast with most widespread arctic–alpine species we found no evidence for a Beringian refugium. Cryptic refugia may have existed within the Cordilleran Ice Sheet. Episodes of range expansion and contraction and long‐distance dispersal have all contributed to the genetic structure and widespread but fragmented distribution of this species.
Unforeseen biogeographical patterns in a multiple parasite system in Macaronesia
Authors: Illera Juan Carlos , Fernández‐Álvarez Ángela , Hernández‐Flores Carmen N. , Foronda Pilar
Published: June 2015

Aim

Understanding the reasons why hosts lose, maintain or swap their parasite burden after colonizing new areas has long intrigued island biogeographers. Using molecular markers, we evaluated parasite biogeography of a multiple parasite system of Apicomplexa protozoans (haemosporidian and coccidian parasites) showing different modes of transmission in the spectacled warbler (Sylvia conspicillata), a small passerine with recently founded populations in Macaronesia.

Location

Twelve oceanic islands of three Macaronesian archipelagos (Madeira, the Canary Islands and Cape Verde) and two continental areas (the Iberian Peninsula and Morocco).

Methods

We amplified and sequenced fragments of the parasite mitochondrial genome (cytochrome b for haemosporidian and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I for coccidian parasites) to determine the prevalence, richness, diversity and associations between groups of pathogens from the continental sources to the Macaronesian islands. We also built a haplotype network for the coccidian parasites to obtain insights on their evolutionary history.

Results

We did not find a significant reduction in parasite diversity in the Macaronesian islands compared with the mainland. The prevalence was higher in Macaronesia for both parasite groups than on the mainland, although it was only significant for the haemosporidian parasites. The haplotype network revealed an unexpectedly strong differentiation in the coccidia, with a similar structure to the haplotype topology previously found in the host.

Main conclusions

Oceanic islands provide model systems for disentangling geographical origins, colonization pathways, and diversification of avian hosts through analysis of parasites. We show that analysis of coccidians, which closely track the evolutionary history of their avian hosts, may illuminate co‐speciation processes in both groups. Our results show that coccidian populations in Macaronesia are highly structured but fail to provide support for the predicted impoverishment of parasite assemblages on islands.
Disruptions in Supply Networks: A Probabilistic Risk Assessment Approach
Authors: Käki Anssi , Salo Ahti , Talluri Srinivas
Published: June 2015

Supply disruptions are attracting growing attention. Even in geographically, politically and economically stable locations, companies are exposed to disruptions, because they depend on their suppliers and suppliers’ suppliers. The analysis of these disruptions helps mitigate risks: for example, instead of relying on local measures such as safety stock or insurance, a company can introduce new supply contracts or backup risky suppliers. In this article, we analyze risks caused by supplier disruptions by introducing concepts from probabilistic risk assessment (PRA), which is a widely employed methodology for the risk analysis of complex engineering systems. We apply PRA to examine simple networks such as triads analytically, and use simulation to analyze disruption risks in random networks of realistic size. We also illustrate how PRA can support strategic decisions such as whether or not to use single or multiple suppliers; which suppliers are more risky than others; and what impacts the complexity of the supply base has on the reliability of the supplier network.
Systemic antibiotics in the treatment of aggressive periodontitis. A systematic review and a Bayesian Network meta‐analysis
Authors: Rabelo Cleverton Correa , Feres Magda , Gonçalves Cristiane , Figueiredo Luciene C. , Faveri Marcelo , Tu Yu‐Kang , Chambrone Leandro
Published: June 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of systemic antibiotic therapy on the treatment of aggressive periodontitis (AgP).

Methods

This study was conducted and reported in accordance with the PRISMA statement. The MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL databases were searched up to June 2014 for randomized clinical trials comparing the treatment of subjects with AgP with either scaling and root planing (SRP) alone or associated with systemic antibiotics. Bayesian network meta‐analysis was prepared using the Bayesian random‐effects hierarchical models and the outcomes reported at 6‐month post‐treatment.

Results

Out of 350 papers identified, 14 studies were eligible. Greater gain in clinical attachment (CA) (mean difference [MD]: 1.08 mm; p < 0.0001) and reduction in probing depth (PD) (MD: 1.05 mm; p < 0.00001) were observed for SRP + metronidazole (Mtz), and for SRP + Mtz + amoxicillin (Amx) (MD: 0.45 mm, MD: 0.53 mm, respectively; p < 0.00001) than SRP alone/placebo. Bayesian network meta‐analysis showed additional benefits in CA gain and PD reduction when SRP was associated with systemic antibiotics.

Conclusions

SRP plus systemic antibiotics led to an additional clinical effect compared with SRP alone in the treatment of AgP. Of the antibiotic protocols available for inclusion into the Bayesian network meta‐analysis, Mtz and Mtz/Amx provided to the most beneficial outcomes.
Thresholds and accuracy in screening tools for early detection of psychopathology
Authors: Sheldrick R. Christopher , Benneyan James C. , Kiss Ivy Giserman , Briggs‐Gowan Margaret J. , Copeland William , Carter Alice S.
Published: June 2015

Background

The accuracy of any screening instrument designed to detect psychopathology among children is ideally assessed through rigorous comparison to ‘gold standard’ tests and interviews. Such comparisons typically yield estimates of what we refer to as ‘standard indices of diagnostic accuracy’, including sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value. However, whereas these statistics were originally designed to detect binary signals (e.g., diagnosis present or absent), screening questionnaires commonly used in psychology, psychiatry, and pediatrics typically result in ordinal scores. Thus, a threshold or ‘cut score’ must be applied to these ordinal scores before accuracy can be evaluated using such standard indices. To better understand the tradeoffs inherent in choosing a particular threshold, we discuss the concept of ‘threshold probability’. In contrast toPPV, which reflects the probability that a child whose scorefalls at or abovethe screening threshold has the condition of interest, threshold probability refers specifically to the likelihood that a child whose scoreis equal toa particular screening threshold has the condition of interest.

Method

The diagnostic accuracy and threshold probability of two well‐validated behavioral assessment instruments, the Child Behavior Checklist Total Problem Scale and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire total scale were examined in relation to a structured psychiatric interview in three de‐identified datasets.

Results

Although both screening measures were effective in identifying groups of children at elevated risk for psychopathology in all samples (odds ratios ranged from 5.2 to 9.7), children who scored at or near the clinical thresholds that optimized sensitivity and specificity were unlikely to meet criteria for psychopathology on gold standard interviews.

Conclusions

Our results are consistent with the view that screening instruments should be interpreted probabilistically, with attention to where along the continuum of positive scores an individual falls.
Association of salivary alpha 2‐macroglobulin levels and clinical characteristics in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Chung Tsung‐Ju , Hsu Kai‐Yuen , Chen Jui‐Hung , Liu Jhih‐Syuan , Chang Hsiao‐Wen , Li Peng‐Fei , Huang Chia‐Luen , Shieh Yi‐Shing , Lee Chien‐Hsing
Published: June 2015

Aims/Introduction

Studies suggest that salivary proteins can be used as potential non‐invasive markers for clinical diagnosis and screening for diabetes. Previous reports showed that plasma alpha 2‐macroglobulin (A2MG) levels were higher in diabetic patients, especially with diabetic complications. We investigated the relationship between salivary A2MG values and clinical characteristics in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

A total of 91 adults were recruited from our outpatient clinics. The study the patients' collected general and biochemical data, and blood glucose (fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c]) data. Plasma and salivary A2MG levels were examined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The salivary A2MG levels were significantly positively correlated with plasma A2MG levels, fasting glucose HbA1c and periodontitis status. After 3 months of follow up, the net change of salivary A2MG values positively correlated with the net change of fasting glucose, HbA1c and triglyceride levels, but negatively correlated with high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol changes. Furthermore, the correlations between salivary A2MG and fasting glucose HbA1c were better than plasma A2MG, respectively.

Conclusions

Our data show that salivary A2MG levels have better correlation with fasting glucose HbA1c and periodontitis status than plasma A2MG in diabetic patients. Salivary A2MG concentration might serve as a non‐invasive marker for clinical diabetic control.
Association between glycemic control and birthweight with glycated albumin in Chinese women with gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Li Hua‐Ping , Wang Feng‐Huan , Tao Min‐Fang , Huang Ya‐Juan , Jia Wei‐Ping
Published: June 2015

Aims/Introduction

To assess glycated albumin (GA) as a potential glycemic index in managing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Materials and Methods

Eligible pregnant women were divided into the GDM group with abnormal result on a 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and the control (normal) group. GA measurements, Pearson's correlation analysis, multiple logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were obtained at the follow‐up examination of participants in the two groups.

Results

A total of 2,118 women were assigned to the GDM group (n = 639) and control group (n = 1,479). The mean level of serum GA in GDM group was significantly greater than that in the control group at both 24–28 and 36–38 weeks of gestation (P < 0.05). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for GA defining good glycemic control in GDM was 0.874 (95% confidence interval 0.811–0.938). The cut‐off point for the GA levels derived from the receiver operating characteristic curve was 11.60%, which had sensitivity and specificity for detecting a poor glycemic status of 75.93% and 86.36%, respectively. The risk of birthweight ≥3,500 g and macrosomia increased significantly with GA levels ≥13.00% at 24–28 weeks and ≥12.00% at 36–38 weeks of gestation.

Conclusions

GA might be an appropriate and conveniently measured index that can detect poor glycemic control and predict birthweights in GDM women.
Immunohistochemical evaluation of experimental Vagococcus salmoninarum infection in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum 1792)
Authors: Yardimci B , Didinen B I , Onuk E E , Metin S , Ciftci A , Kubilay A , Pekmezci G Z , Eralp H
Published: June 2015

The aim of this study was to investigate the pathogenesis and histopathological and immunohistochemical findings in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) following experimental vagococcosis. For this purpose, 60 rainbow trout were used. The experimental study used the pathogen Vagococcus salmoninarum. The fish were intraperitoneally (IP) administered with an inoculate containing 0.1 mL of the bacteria, resulting in a dose of 1.2 × 109 cfu mL−1 per fish. For histopathological observations, tissue samples were taken from fish that died during the experiment and fish that survived until the end of the trial (60th day). All the tissue samples were immunohistochemically stained by the avidin–biotin–peroxidase complex and immunofluorescence methods using polyclonal antibody to detect V. salmoninarum antigens. In immunoperoxidase staining, positive reactions to bacterial antigens were most commonly seen in the kidney, heart and liver. In the immunofluorescence analysis, the distribution of antigens in the tissue and organs was similar to that observed with the immunoperoxidase staining. The results reveal an important correlation between histochemical and immunohistochemical staining in demonstrating the distribution of V. salmoninarum antigens in the affected tissues.
Priming the immune system of Penaeid shrimp by bacterial HSP70 (DnaK)
Authors: Phuoc L H , Hu B , Wille M , Hien N T , Phuong V H , Tinh N T N , Loc N H , Sorgeloos P , Bossier P
Published: June 2015

This study was conducted to test the effect of DnaK on priming immune responses in Penaeid shrimp. Juvenile‐specific pathogen‐free (SPF) P. vannamei shrimp were injected with 0.05 μg recombinant DnaK. One hour post‐DnaK priming, a non‐lethal dose of Vibrio campbellii (105 CFU shrimp−1) was injected. Other treatments include only DnaK or V. campbellii injection or control with blank inocula. The haemolymph of three shrimp from each treatment was collected at 1.5, 6, 9 and 12 h post‐DnaK priming (hpp). It was verified that injection with DnaK and V. campbellii challenge affected the transcription of 3 immune genes, transglutaminase‐1 (TGase‐1), prophenoloxidase‐2 (proPO‐2) and endogenous HSP70 (lvHSP70). In P. monodon, shrimp were first injected with DnaK at a dose of 10 μg shrimp−1 and one hour later with 106 CFU of V. harveyi (BB120) shrimp−1. Shrimp injected with DnaK showed a significant increase in proPO expression compared to the control (P < 0.05). Yet a double injection (DnaK and Vibrio) seemed to cause an antagonistic response at the level of expression, which was not equalled at the level of PO activity. Those results suggest that DnaK is able to modulate immune responses in P. vannamei and P. monodon.
Urban flooding and ground‐related homes in Canada: an overview
Authors: Sandink D.
Published: June 2015

Urban flooding associated with extreme precipitation is a significant cause of disaster damages for municipalities, homeowners and insurers in Canada. Several approaches have been applied to reduce urban flood risk at the municipal and homeowner scales, including addressing inflow/infiltration in wastewater systems, accommodating extreme stormwater flows in subdivision design and protecting individual homes from flooding. Insurers have also engaged in managing urban flood risk through interactions with individual policyholders and initiatives aimed at better understanding urban flood risk and risk mitigation options. Requiring mitigation measures at the time of the construction of homes, improving insurance data, application of incentives for appropriate private side retrofits, and improved collaboration between insurers and municipalities for identification of urban flood risk areas provide additional opportunities for urban flood risk reduction. Further, senior levels of governments should support inflow/infiltration reduction and application of climate change information to improve the planning and design of municipal infrastructure.