bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence that sex‐specific signals may support mate finding and limit aggregation in the dung beetle Aphodius fossor
Authors: MANNING PAUL , FORD JACK P.
Published: April 2016

1. In temperate climates, dung is often colonised by several species of endocoprid (dwelling) dung beetles which use pats for feeding, shelter, and reproduction.

2. Endocoprid beetles aggregate even when offered patches (dung pats) of consistent age, size, and origin, suggesting that beetles themselves might influence the attractiveness of patches to members of their own species. Both pheromones, and physical changes to the structure of dung pats caused by colonising beetles have been suggested as mechanisms facilitating intraspecific aggregation, but neither of these hypotheses have been empirically tested.

3. Using a common European dung beetle (Aphodius fossor L.), we conducted a simple choice experiment designed to test whether (i) earlier colonisation by conspecifics could alter dung attractiveness and (ii) whether attraction was influenced by sex‐specific signals.

4. We found that female beetles are repelled by dung colonised by conspecific females and are attracted to dung colonised by conspecific males. Male beetles show no evidence of attraction or repellence for dung colonised by either sex. Neither in females nor males was uncolonised dung found to be significantly more or less attractive than predicted by non‐preference.

5. Our results suggest that for A. fossor male‐produced signals may support mate finding in patchy environments, and that female‐produced signals may serve to discourage subsequent colonisation by additional females.
State dependency of inhibitory control performance: an electrical neuroimaging study
Authors: De Pretto Michael , Sallard Etienne , Spierer Lucas
Published: April 2016

Behavioral and brain responses to stimuli not only depend on their physical features but also on the individuals' neurocognitive states before stimuli onsets. While the influence of pre‐stimulus fluctuations in brain activity on low‐level perceptive processes is well established, the state dependency of high‐order executive processes remains unclear. Using a classical inhibitory control Go/NoGo task, we examined whether and how fluctuations in the brain activity during the period preceding the stimuli triggering inhibition influenced inhibitory control performance. Seventeen participants completed the Go/NoGo task while 64‐channel electroencephalogram was recorded. We compared the event‐related potentials preceding the onset of the NoGo stimuli associated with inhibition failures false alarms (FA) vs. successful inhibition correct rejections (CR) with data‐driven statistical analyses of global measures of the topography and strength of the scalp electric field. Distributed electrical source estimations were used to localize the origin of the event‐related potentials modulations. We observed differences in the global field power of the event‐related potentials (FA > CR) without concomitant topographic modulations over the 40 ms period immediately preceding NoGo stimuli. This result indicates that the same brain networks were engaged in the two conditions, but more strongly before FA than CR. Source estimations revealed that this effect followed from a higher activity before FA than CR within bilateral inferior frontal gyri and the right inferior parietal lobule. These findings suggest that uncontrolled quantitative variations in pre‐stimulus activity within attentional and control brain networks influence inhibition performance. The present data thereby demonstrate the state dependency of cognitive processes of up to high‐order executive levels.
Mate‐seeking and oviposition behavior of Chyliza vittata (Diptera: Psilidae) infesting the leafless orchid Gastrodia elata
Authors: Sugiura Naoto
Published: April 2016

The psilid fly Chyliza vittata is a leaf miner or stem borer of some orchids in Europe and Japan but few studies on its behavior have been published. Here I describe aspects of the reproductive behavior of the species infesting Gastrodia elata, a leafless orchid. Male mate‐seeking behavior occurred on flowering G. elata plants that were attractive to egg‐laden females, and indeed copulation was observed. Although two or more males were commonly seen on an orchid stem without interaction, males occasionally reacted aggressively toward other males. Females laid eggs on the flowers, floral buds or bracts as well as into the flowers, using their “ovipositor”. Almost all orchids studied eventually produced mature capsules; therefore G. elata seemed to suffer limited damage from infestation by C. vittata. Information regarding a natural enemy and pupation habits is also provided.
Distinctive molecular responses to ultraviolet radiation between keratinocytes and melanocytes
Authors: Sun Xiaoyun , Kim Arianna , Nakatani Masashi , Shen Yao , Liu Liang
Published: April 2016

Solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the major risk factor for skin carcinogenesis. To gain new insights into the molecular pathways mediating UVR effects in the skin, we performed comprehensive transcriptomic analyses to identify shared and distinctive molecular responses to UVR between human keratinocytes and melanocytes. Keratinocytes and melanocytes were irradiated with varying doses of UVB (10, 20 and 30 mJ/cm2) then analysed by RNA‐Seq at different time points post‐UVB radiation (4, 24 and 72 h). Under basal conditions, keratinocytes and melanocytes expressed similar number of genes, although they each expressed a distinctive subset of genes pertaining to their specific cellular identity. Upon UVB radiation, keratinocytes displayed a clear pattern of time‐ and dose‐dependent changes in gene expression that was different from melanocytes. The early UVB‐responsive gene set (4 h post‐UVR) differed significantly from delayed UVB‐responsive gene sets (24 and 72 h). We also identified multiple novel UVB signature genes including PRSS23, SERPINH1, LCE3D and CNFN, which were conserved between melanocyte and keratinocyte lines from different individuals. Taken together, our findings elucidated both common and distinctive molecular features between melanocytes and keratinocytes and uncovered novel UVB signature genes that might be utilized to predict UVB photobiological effects on the skin.
Any route for melanoblasts to colonize the skin!
Authors: Petit Valérie , Larue Lionel
Published: April 2016

Melanocytes arise from the fourth embryonic layer, the neural crest. They emerge from the roof plate of the neural tube and migrate throughout the body. In mammals, these cells have the capacity to migrate in any type of environment and use various pathways and mechanisms to colonize the skin and hair, and for their maintenance throughout the life of the animal.
US forest response to projected climate‐related stress: a tolerance perspective
Authors: Liénard Jean , Harrison John , Strigul Nikolay
Published: April 2016

Although it is widely recognized that climate change will require a major spatial reorganization of forests, our ability to predict exactly how and where forest characteristics and distributions will change has been rather limited. Current efforts to predict future distribution of forested ecosystems as a function of climate include species distribution models (for fine‐scale predictions) and potential vegetation climate envelope models (for coarse‐grained, large‐scale predictions). Here, we develop and apply an intermediate approach wherein we use stand‐level tolerances of environmental stressors to understand forest distributions and vulnerabilities to anticipated climate change. In contrast to other existing models, this approach can be applied at a continental scale while maintaining a direct link to ecologically relevant, climate‐related stressors. We first demonstrate that shade, drought, and waterlogging tolerances of forest stands are strongly correlated with climate and edaphic conditions in the conterminous United States. This discovery allows the development of a tolerance distribution model (TDM), a novel quantitative tool to assess landscape level impacts of climate change. We then focus on evaluating the implications of the drought TDM. Using an ensemble of 17 climate change models to drive this TDM, we estimate that 18% of US ecosystems are vulnerable to drought‐related stress over the coming century. Vulnerable areas include mostly the Midwest United States and Northeast United States, as well as high‐elevation areas of the Rocky Mountains. We also infer stress incurred by shifting climate should create an opening for the establishment of forest types not currently seen in the conterminous United States.
Association between posterior teeth occlusion and functional dependence among older adults in nursing homes in Japan
Authors: Takeuchi Kenji , Izumi Maya , Furuta Michiko , Takeshita Toru , Shibata Yukie , Kageyama Shinya , Ganaha Seijun , Yamashita Yoshihisa
Published: April 2016

Aim

To examine whether posterior teeth occlusion is associated with functional dependence regardless of the number of natural teeth among Japanese nursing home residents.

Methods

The present cross‐sectional study included 234 residents aged >60 years from eight nursing homes in Aso City, Japan. Functional dependence in basic activities of daily living was measured using the Barthel Index, and the primary outcome was independence for essential personal care (Barthel Index ≥ 60 points). Posterior teeth occlusion was assessed by a dentist using the total number of functional tooth units, depending on the number and location of the remaining natural and artificial teeth on implant‐supported, fixed, and removable prostheses. Logistic regression models were used to assess univariate and multivariate associations between the total number of functional tooth units and independence for essential personal care. Models were sequentially adjusted for the number of natural teeth, demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status, health behaviors and comorbidities.

Results

Independence for essential personal care was found in 14.1% of participants. Greater total numbers of functional tooth units were significantly associated with greater odds of independence for essential personal care (odds ratio 1.12; 95% confidence interval 1.01–1.24). The association remained significant after adjustment for the number of natural teeth and other possible confounders (odds ratio 1.14, 95% confidence interval 1.01–1.29).

Conclusions

Posterior teeth occlusion was independently associated with functional dependence among nursing home older residents in Japan. The maintenance and restoration of posterior teeth occlusion might be preventive factors against late‐life functional decline. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 622–627.
Yield and water productivity of Buffel and Rhodes grasses under different irrigation water regimes using the sprinkler line‐source system
Authors: Mazahrih Naem , Al‐Wahaibi Hamdan , Al‐Farsi Safa , Ouled Belgacem Azaiez
Published: April 2016

The indigenous forage species such as Buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) are capable of surviving with less water than most introduced species such as Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana) and alfalfa. However, the productivity of Buffel grass as a function of the amount of water applied is unknown. A case study was conducted in Oman to evaluate the response of Buffel and Rhodes grasses to different irrigation levels using line‐source sprinkler irrigation system. Four irrigation treatments (40, 65, 100 and 125%) based on reference evapotranspiration (ETo) with two grass species (Buffel and Rhodes grasses) were investigated as sub‐main treatments in strip plot design with four replications. The average total amount of applied water during the study period were 15 126, 24 580, 37 815 and 47 269 m3 ha−1, for the four irrigation treatments, respectively. The results of 12 cuts during 514 days indicated that Buffel grass has significantly higher dry weight production (DW) and water productivity than Rhodes grass at all irrigation levels. Irrigation by 65% of ETo for Buffel grass has the highest water productivity value reached to 0.95 kg m−3 and 42% of applied water can be saved to produce the same amount of DW of Rhodes grass. Soil salinity increased in the soil profile for 40, 65 and 100% ETo irrigation levels during the summer season and the soil salinity values were higher at Rhodes than Buffel grasses location for these irrigation levels.
Can Changes to Gender Equality Be Sustained?
Authors: Eriksson‐Zetterquist Ulla , Renemark David
Published: April 2016

The aim of this paper is to discuss how changes to gender equality in organizing can be made sustainable. Numerous studies have reported on projects which have not succeeded in their efforts to implement gender equality. In this paper, we analyse the results from two programmes which aimed to increase equal opportunities among private and public sector organizations. Theoretically, the study is based on the framework of doing gender, which is combined with insights from studies using the translation model of organizational change. The translation model of organizational change enables investigation of formal and informal processes within an institutionalized setting. By studying those aspects that were stabilized into an institution within these two programmes, as well as those which were not, the approaches that had become sustainable for the programmes in the long term could be discerned. When comparing the two programmes, it became apparent that complications arose at the point at which the theoretical aims of gender equality were translated into actions. The analysis of the outcomes of these programmes indicates, however, that, even though the formal goals were not reached, equal opportunities within the participating organizations did benefit from these programmes.
The German temporary staffing industry: growth, development, scandal and resistance
Authors: Ferreira Jennifer
Published: April 2016

In Germany the size of the temporary agency workforce has almost doubled between 2002 and 2012 prompted by deregulation and expansion of temporary staffing agency networks. This article examines the growth of the temporary staffing industry in Germany revealing important milestones in the regulatory framework transformation. The article then explores the role of key actors in the development of temporary staffing industry in the Germany labour market, in particular the shifting positions of trade unions in relation to temporary agency work, as well as intervention from the state with re‐regulation in order to mitigate for exploitative affecting temporary agency workers. The findings highlight that while the growth of the German temporary staffing industry has been substantial, and that the state has been an active agent, it has not been without its controversies and challenges, and that features of the industry remain potential barriers for its future development. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Opaque Financial Contracting and Toxic Term Sheets in Venture Capital
Authors: Brown Keith C. , Wiles Kenneth W.
Published: April 2016

In a recent article in this journal, the authors documented the growing tendency of emerging growth companies to raise substantial equity while remaining privately held through private IPOs, or PIPOs. PIPO financing has created scores of “unicorn” firms—private enterprises with imputed market values of $1.0 billion or more—while allowing them to avoid the challenges of being publicly traded. But as has also been noted, the PIPO process, with its multiple financing rounds and increasingly complex terms, has almost certainly result in some inflated market valuations.

Along with inflated values, the contracting process and many of the provisions that result from it often have economic consequences that are poorly understood by at least some of the participants, including the potential for significant wealth transfer between stakeholders as well as overall destruction of enterprise value. And the term sheets containing such provisions appear to become even more “opaque” and more “toxic” with each round of financing. More specifically, the liquidation preferences and ratchets often provided new investors in the later rounds of PIPOs can greatly affect the allocation of the risks and the ownership shares and, in so doing, transfer significant wealth from the entrepreneurs and other older owners.

Using a numerical analysis of a representative term sheet, the authors discuss the process of financial contracting for early‐stage companies, providing examples of how negotiations can go wrong and showing exactly when and where the agreed‐upon conditions start to turn toxic for some of the stakeholders. The article closes with the authors’ assessment of the disincentives for entrepreneurs and early‐stage investors created by this often confusing and dilutive venture capital contracting and funding process.
Are U.S. Companies Really Holding That Much Cash—And If So, Why?
Authors: Zenner Marc , Junek Evan , Chivukula Ram
Published: April 2016

Non‐financial S&P 500 companies are now estimated to hold a total of $2.1 trillion of “cash,” a figure that is larger than the annual GDP of all but eight countries. In this report, J.P. Morgan's Corporate Finance Advisory team notes that while many observers have attributed the buildup to offshore cash growth alone, onshore cash levels are also up significantly.

To be sure, the companies that have shown the greatest increases also tend to be highly successful, with strong cash flow and business performance. And the managers of such companies tend to prefer to retain much if not most of this cash to take advantage of investment opportunities and to maintain the flexibility to respond to the next economic downturn. Also adding to the cash build‐ups, the executives of large MNCs with significant overseas cash holdings typically try to avoid the higher tax bill triggered by repatriating funds to the U.S.

Nevertheless, investors continue to expect growth and high returns on capital; and corporate distributions of capital in the form of dividends and stock buybacks can play an important role in encouraging companies to operate efficiently. While pursuing both of these goals—preservation of enough cash to weather downturns and invest in all positive‐NPV projects, and commitment to paying out excess capital—boards and senior decision makers should continuously reexamine their cash holdings and capital allocation policies to ensure they are appropriate not only for today's environment, but throughout the economic cycle.
Connecting performance to social structure and pedagogy as a pathway to scaling learning analytics in MOOCs: an exploratory study
Authors: Goggins S.P. , Galyen K.D. , Petakovic E. , Laffey J.M.
Published: April 2016

This exploratory study focuses on the design and evaluation of teaching analytics that relate social learning structure with performance measures in a massive open online course (MOOC) prototype environment. Using reflexive analysis of online learning trace data and qualitative performance measures we present an exploratory empirical study that: (a) rigorously evaluates a novel, multi‐dimensional performance construct; (b) describes differences in small group dynamics and structure; and (c) draws a connection between learning performance and group structure. Performance is operationalized using a combination of knowledge construction measurement from discussion boards, rigorous analysis of student work products and several indicators of small group identity in the course examined. Interview and observational data are used to develop an approach for deriving and validating a model of the social structure of students in the course using traces of interaction data. The connection between performance and structure is developed at the small group unit of analysis. Implications for MOOC design, scaling MOOC analytics and a vision for developing social sensors in MOOC environments are presented in the discussion and conclusion.
Human CD8+ T cells transduced with an additional receptor bispecific for both Mycobacterium tuberculosis and HIV‐1 recognize both epitopes
Authors: Zhou Chao‐Ying , Wen Qian , Chen Xiao‐Jie , Wang Rui‐Ning , He Wen‐Ting , Zhang Shi‐Meng , Du Xia‐Lin , Ma Li
Published: April 2016

Tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) infection are closely intertwined, with one‐quarter of TB/HIV coinfected deaths among people died of TB. Effector CD8+ T cells play a crucial role in the control of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and HIV‐1 infection in coinfected patients. Adoptive transfer of a multitude of effector CD8+ T cells is an appealing strategy to impose improved anti‐MTB/HIV‐1 activity onto coinfected individuals. Due to extensive existence of heterologous immunity, that is, T cells cross‐reactive with peptides encoded by related or even very dissimilar pathogens, it is reasonable to find a single T cell receptor (TCR) recognizing both MTB and HIV‐1 antigenic peptides. In this study, a single TCR specific for both MTB Ag85B199‐207 peptide and HIV‐1 Env120‐128 peptide was screened out from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of a HLA‐A*0201+ healthy individual using complementarity determining region 3 spectratype analysis and transferred to primary CD8+ T cells using a recombinant retroviral vector. The bispecificity of the TCR gene‐modified CD8+ T cells was demonstrated by elevated secretion of interferon‐γ, tumour necrosis factor‐α, granzyme B and specific cytolytic activity after antigen presentation of either Ag85B199‐207 or Env120‐128 by autologous dendritic cells. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first report proposing to produce responses against two dissimilar antigenic peptides of MTB and HIV‐1 simultaneously by transfecting CD8+ T cells with a single TCR. Taken together, T cells transduced with the additional bispecific TCR might be a useful strategy in immunotherapy for MTB/HIV‐1 coinfected individuals.
A 5‐year prospective study on single immediate implants in the aesthetic zone
Authors: Cosyn Jan , Eghbali Aryan , Hermans Alexander , Vervaeke Stijn , De Bruyn Hugo , Cleymaet Roberto
Published: April 2016

Aim

There is a paucity of long‐term data on soft tissue aesthetics of single immediate implants. The objective of this study was to evaluate the 5‐year clinical and aesthetic outcome of this treatment concept.

Materials and methods

Twenty‐two periodontally healthy patients (12 men, 10 women; mean age 50) with low risk for aesthetic complications (thick gingival biotype, intact buccal bone wall, both neighbouring teeth present) were consecutively treated with a single immediate implant in the aesthetic zone (15–25). Flapless surgery was performed and the gap between the implant and buccal bone wall was systematically filled with bovine bone particles. Implants were immediately non‐functionally loaded with a screw‐retained provisional crown. Cases demonstrating major alveolar process changes and/or advanced mid‐facial recession (>1 mm) at 3 months were additionally treated with a connective tissue graft (CTG). Permanent crowns were installed at 6 months. The clinical and aesthetic results at 5 years were compared to those obtained at 1 year.

Results

Seventeen patients attended the 5‐year re‐assessment, of whom five had been treated with aCTGfor early aesthetic complications. There was one early implant failure and one complication after 1 year (porcelain chipping). Mean marginal bone loss was 0.12 mm at 1 year and 0.19 mm at 5 years (p = 0.595) with the moment of implant installation as baseline. Papilla height increased between 1 and 5 years (p ≤ 0.007), whereas mid‐facial contour (p = 0.005) and alveolar process deficiency (p = 0.008) deteriorated. Mean mid‐facial recession was on average 0.28 mm (SD0.48) at 1 year and 0.53 mm (SD0.53) at 5 years (p = 0.072) with the preoperative status as baseline. Three implants demonstrated advanced mid‐facial recession (>1 mm) at 5 years. All three were in a central incisor position and none had been treated with aCTG. Thus, 8/17 implants showed aesthetic complications (five early and three late aesthetic complications). Implants in a lateral incisor position showed stable soft tissue levels. The pink aesthetic score was on average 12.15 at 1 year and 11.18 at 5 years (p = 0.030).

Conclusion

Single immediate implants showed high implant survival and limited marginal bone loss in the long term. However, mid‐facial recession, mid‐facial contour and alveolar process deficiency deteriorated after 1 year. With an aesthetic complication rate of 8/17 in well‐selected patients who had been treated by experienced clinicians, type I placement may not be recommended for daily practice.
Evolution of sex chromosomes prior to speciation in the dioecious Phoenix species
Authors: Cherif E. , Zehdi‐Azouzi S. , Crabos A. , Castillo K. , Chabrillange N. , Pintaud J.‐C. , Salhi‐Hannachi A. , Glémin S. , Aberlenc‐Bertossi F.
Published: April 2016

Understanding the driving forces and molecular processes underlying dioecy and sex chromosome evolution, leading from hermaphroditism to the occurrence of male and female individuals, is of considerable interest in fundamental and applied research. The genus Phoenix, belonging to the Arecaceae family, consists uniquely of dioecious species. Phylogenetic data suggest that the genus Phoenix has diverged from a hermaphroditic ancestor which is also shared with its closest relatives. We have investigated the cessation of recombination in the sex‐determination region within the genus Phoenix as a whole by extending the analysis of P. dactylifera SSR sex‐related loci to eight other species within the genus. Phylogenetic analysis of a date palm sex‐linked PdMYB1 gene in these species has revealed that sex‐linked alleles have not clustered in a species‐dependent way but rather in X and Y‐allele clusters. Our data show that sex chromosomes evolved from a common autosomal origin before the diversification of the extant dioecious species.
Risk and predictors of hepatocellular carcinoma for chronic hepatitis B patients with newly developed cirrhosis
Authors: Chien Justin , Liu Jessica , Lee Mei‐Hsuan , Jen Chin‐Lan , Batrla‐Utermann Richard , Lu Sheng‐Nan , Wang Li‐Yu , You San‐Lin , Yang Hwai‐I , Chen Chien‐Jen
Published: April 2016

Background and Aims

Most studies on risk predictors of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) among cirrhotic chronic hepatitis B patients do not confirm the date at cirrhosis diagnosis. We examined HCC risk and predictors in chronic hepatitis B patients with newly diagnosed cirrhosis.

Methods

4155 HBsAg seropositive participants were followed every 6–12 months with seromarker testing. Cirrhosis was ascertained through abdominal ultrasonography and computerized linkage with national health insurance profiles. Predictors included in Cox proportional hazards models were age, HBeAg serostatus, serum levels of HBsAg, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP), and ALDH2 rs671 genotypes.

Results

A total of 301 patients developed cirrhosis, 76 of whom later developed HCC after 2462 person‐years, showing an average annual incidence of 3.1%. The 15‐year cumulative HCC risk among cirrhotics was 39.8% with a lifetime (30–80 years old) HCC risk of 78.5%. The adjusted HR's (95% CI, P‐value) were 14.26 (3.17–64.08, P = 0.0005) for age at cirrhosis diagnosis of ≥60 years (vs 30–39 years), 2.85 (1.49–5.46, P = 0.0015) for HBeAg seropositivity (vs HBeAg seronegativity with HBsAg levels <1000 IU/mL), 0.35 (0.20–0.59, P < 0.0001) for AA/AG genotypes of rs671 (vs GG genotype), 3.68 (1.70–7.99, P = 0.0010) for ALT levels >45 U/L (vs <15 U/L), 3.52 (1.78–6.93, P = 0.0003) for AFP levels >20 ng/mL (vs <10 ng/mL), and 2.64 (1.38–5.07, P = 0.0035) for HBsAg levels ≥1000 IU/mL (vs <1000 IU/mL among HBeAg seronegatives).

Conclusions

Older age, GG genotype of ALDH2 rs671, HBeAg seropositivity, and elevated serum levels of ALT, AFP, and HBsAg at cirrhosis diagnosis were HCC risk predictors in cirrhotic chronic hepatitis B patients.
Analysis of a Social Work–Based Model of Transitional Care to Reduce Hospital Readmissions: Preliminary Data
Authors: Boutwell Amy E. , Johnson Marian B. , Watkins Ralph
Published: April 2016

Efforts to reduce readmissions after hospital discharge are increasingly being made to better identify and address social and logistical needs in addition to attending to posthospital clinical challenges. A transitional care model based in the social work professional skill set may be well matched to assess and address social and logistical needs during the posthospital transitional care period. The effect of a social work–based transitional care intervention on all‐cause 30‐day readmission rates for Medicare fee‐for‐service (FFS) beneficiaries discharged from an urban medical center was analyzed. Analyses revealed a 20% relative reduction in readmissions for 1,546 Medicare FFS discharges to home, with or without home care (a 4.5% absolute rate reduction). This model may be of interest to entities that are accountable for the care of individuals with complex social needs, such as dually eligible individuals (those eligible for Medicare and Medicaid) and adults who are newly eligible for Medicaid coverage.
THRESHOLD SPECIFICATION AND PARAMETER IDENTIFICATION IN THE GENERALIZED ORDINAL PROBIT MODEL
Authors: Terza Joseph V.
Published: April 2016

The following note corrects errors in the review and exposition of the generalized ordinal probit model as offered by Greeneet al. (2014,Journal of Economic Surveys28: 109‐133).
Ex post Merger Evaluation in the U.K. Retail Market for Books
Authors: Aguzzoni Luca , Argentesi Elena , Ciari Lorenzo , Duso Tomaso , Tognoni Massimo
Published: April 2016

This paper evaluates the price effects of the merger of two major U.K. book retailers. We use a dataset containing monthly scanner data on a sample of 200 books in 50 local markets for four years around the merger. We compare the price changes after the merger in shops located in areas where both chains were present before the merger and in areas where only one chain was present. We also investigate the country‐wide effect of the merger. We find that the merger did not result in any price increase either at the local or at the national level.
PREVALENCE OF CONSTIPATION IN PATIENTS WITH ADVANCED KIDNEY DISEASE
Authors: Lee Anna , Lambert Kelly , Byrne Pauline , Lonergan Maureen
Published: April 2016

Background

For people on peritoneal dialysis (PD), constipation is associated with technique failure. For those on haemodialysis (HD), constipation has been associated with a reduction in quality of life.

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to (i) determine the prevalence of functional constipation; (ii) compare patient perception of constipation with Rome III criteria for functional constipation; (iii) describe the prevalence of constipation and stool form using Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS); (iv) determine differences in bowel habit and stool form between those on dialysis compared to pre‐dialysis; and (v) determine the diagnostic accuracy of self‐perception and the Rome III criteria against the BSFS. A cross‐sectional group of pre‐dialysis (eGFR < 15 ml/min) and dialysis patients were recruited. A total of 148 patients participated (98 HD, 21 PD and 21 pre‐dialysis).

Participants

completed a questionnaire consisting of self‐perception of the presence of constipation, simplified questions from the Rome III criteria for functional constipation, scored their stool form using the BSFS and reported laxative use.

Results

The prevalence of constipation using the Rome III criteria was 12.3%; patient perception 46.3% and 25.7% using the BSFS. Prevalence differed according to the tool used.

Conclusion

No single method alone is sufficient for accurately determining if a patient is constipated. Relying on patients’ self‐perception may be unreliable. Ideally patient assessment of constipation should incorporate both the Rome III criteria and BSFS in a method such as the one designed as a result of this research. Further research is needed to assess its usability and practicality in clinical practice.
Promoting oral cancer examinations to medical primary care providers: a cluster randomized trial
Authors: Wee Alvin G. , Zimmerman Lani M. , Anderson James R. , Nunn Martha E. , Loberiza Fausto R. , Sitorius Michael A. , Pullen Carol H.
Published: April 2016

Objectives

To compare the percentage of patients who had an oral cancer examination (OCE) by their primary care provider (PCP) in medical clinics participating in a web‐based education with poster reminder intervention to that of patients in control clinics. To also determine the effects for PCPs in medical clinics participating in the web‐based education with poster reminder intervention as compared with those in control clinics regarding: a) index of knowledge of oral cancer risk factors (RiskOC) and b) index of knowledge of oral cancer diagnostic procedures (DiagOC).

Methods

Six medical clinics were recruited to participate in this study and randomly assigned to an intervention group or a control group. PCPs (physicians, physician assistants, and advanced practice registered nurses) took a pretest; 2 weeks later, they participated in the web‐based educational program, including a posttest (intervention group) or took a posttest only (control group). In each clinic, 1 week following completion of the PCPs' posttests, 94 patients were recruited to complete a one‐page survey.

Results

The intervention clinics were found to be a significant factor for the PCPs to perform patient OCEs, after controlling for significant covariates, that is, age, main reason for clinic visit, OCE for patient in the past year, clinic's mean DiagOC score, and clinic's mean RiskOC score. The intervention also resulted in the PCPs increasing their pretest to posttest RiskOC scores.

Conclusions

The use of intervention has the potential to increase PCPs' short‐term knowledge and to increase the frequency of PCPs' routine, nonsymptomatic opportunistic OCE on patients.
Statistical challenges of evaluating diversity patterns across environmental gradients in mega‐diverse communities
Authors: Chao Anne , Chiu Chun‐Huo , Jost Lou
Published: April 2016

Ibanez et al. (Journal of Vegetation Science, this issue) applied sample size‐ and coverage‐based rarefaction to analyse the elevational richness pattern in New Caledonian tree communities. We comment on the statistical assumptions behind rarefaction/extrapolation and suggest pooling small plot data to effectively assess/detect the diversity pattern. Broadening the analysis to include abundance‐sensitive diversity measures and phylogenetic information can provide important additional insights.
Defendant-sided unjust factors
Authors: Sheehan Duncan
Published: April 2016

This paper will examine the structure of the defendant-sided unjust factors, by which I mean duress and undue influence. The paper first argues that undue influence is based on abuse of deferential trust placed in the defendant and duress on an illegitimate threat leading to the claimant's lack of consent. The paper distinguishes undue influence from the unconscionable bargains doctrine. The paper then models the effect of that on the claimant's intentional agency by reference to Michael Bratman's influential theory of intention. It suggests that while mistake can be modelled by way of the failure of a condition on his intention, meaning that the claimant's intention does not cover the facts as they actually turn out to be, defendant-sided factors are based on the defendant's having improperly inveigled himself into the claimant's practical reasoning. It suggests that this happens either by way of the defendant's illegitimate structuring of the claimant's choice or by way of the claimant's deferring his judgment to that of the defendant. The claimant's intentions have, in philosophical language, agential authority, but the claimant was ‘in the grip of a norm’; the essay explores what this concept might be.
Designing consumer redress: a dispute system design (DSD) model for consumer-to-business disputes
Authors: Gill Chris , Williams Jane , Brennan Carol , Hirst Carolyn
Published: April 2016

This paper proposes a model for designing consumer dispute resolution (CDR) mechanisms (including conciliation, adjudication, arbitration and ombuds schemes). This field has expanded significantly in recent years, replacing courts as the primary forum of dispute resolution in some areas of consumer-to-business activity. This expansion has been ad hoc, with a lack of consistency in the design of CDR mechanisms and in the overall shape of the CDR landscape. In light of the recent implementation of the EU's Directive on Consumer Alternative Dispute Resolution and Regulation on Consumer Online Dispute Resolution, Dispute System Design (DSD) requires urgent attention to ensure that the design of future mechanisms is based on coherent principles. A failure to address this issue risks undermining the legitimacy of state-sanctioned dispute resolution. The model described in this paper proposes a systematic approach and aims to: synthesise existing DSD models; apply the concepts of DSD to the field of CDR; and provide a framework that may be of use in other disputing contexts.
Dynamic Flow Velocity Mapping from Fluorescent Dye Transit Times in the Brain Surface Microcirculation of Anesthetized Rats and Mice
Authors: Hoshikawa Ryo , Kawaguchi Hiroshi , Takuwa Hiroyuki , Ikoma Yoko , Tomita Yutaka , Unekawa Miyuki , Suzuki Norihiro , Kanno Iwao , Masamoto Kazuto
Published: April 2016

Objective

This study aimed to develop a new method for mapping blood flow velocity based on the spatial evolution of fluorescent dye transit times captured with CLSFM in the cerebral microcirculation of anesthetized rodents.

Methods

The animals were anesthetized with isoflurane, and a small amount of fluorescent dye was intravenously injected to label blood plasma. The CLSFM was conducted through a closed cranial window to capture propagation of the dye in the cortical vessels. The transit time of the dye over a certain distance in a single vessel was determined with automated image analyses, and average flow velocity was mapped in each vessel.

Results

The average flow velocity measured in the rat pial artery and vein was 4.4 ± 1.2 and 2.4 ± 0.5 mm/sec, respectively. A similar range of flow velocity to those of the rats was observed in the mice; 4.9 ± 1.4 and 2.0 ± 0.9 mm/sec, respectively, although the vessel diameter in the mice was about half of that in the rats.

Conclusions

Flow velocity in the cerebral microcirculation can be mapped based on fluorescent dye transit time measurements with conventional CLSFM in experimental animals.
Differential modulation of plant immune responses by diverse members of the Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. savastanoi HopAF type III effector family
Authors: Castañeda‐Ojeda M. Pilar , López‐Solanilla Emilia , Ramos Cayo
Published: April 2016

The Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. savastanoi NCPPB 3335 type III secretion system (T3SS) effector repertoire includes 33 candidates, seven of which translocate into host cells and interfere with plant defences. The present study was performed to investigate the co‐existence of both plasmid‐ and chromosomal‐encoded members of the HopAF effector family, HopAF1‐1 and HopAF1‐2, respectively, in the genome of NCPPB 3335. Here, we show that the HopAF1 paralogues are widely distributed in the Pseudomonas syringae complex, where HopAF1‐1 is most similar to the homologues encoded by other P. syringae pathovars infecting woody hosts that belong to phylogroups 1 and 3. We show that the expression of both HopAF1‐1 and HopAF‐2 is transcriptionally dependent on HrpL and demonstrate their delivery into Nicotiana tabacum leaves. Although the heterologous delivery of either HopAF1‐1 or HopAF1‐2 significantly suppressed the production of defence‐associated reactive oxygen species levels, only HopAF1‐2 reduced the levels of callose deposition. Moreover, the expression of HopAF1‐2 by functionally effectorless P. syringae pv. tomato DC3000D28E completely inhibited the hypersensitive response in tobacco and significantly increased the competitiveness of the strain in Nicotiana benthamiana. Despite their functional differences, subcellular localization studies reveal that green fluorescent protein (GFP) fusions to either HopAF1‐1 or HopAF1‐2 are targeted to the plasma membrane when they are expressed in plant cells, a process that is completely dependent on the integrity of their N‐myristoylation motif. Our results further support the notion that highly similar T3SS effectors might differentially interact with diverse plant targets, even when they co‐localize in the same cell compartment.
Impact of dialysis requirement on outcomes in tumor lysis syndrome
Authors: Garimella Pranav S. , Balakrishnan Poojitha , Ammakkanavar Natraj R. , Patel Shanti , Patel Achint , Konstantinidis Ioannis , Annapureddy Narender , Nadkarni Girish N.
Published: April 2016

Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) is a life threatening emergency due to destruction and massive release of intracellular metabolites from cancer cells often resulting in acute kidney injury (AKI), sometimes severe enough to require dialysis (AKI‐D). The impact of dialysis requirement in AKI has not been explored. We utilized data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample and using International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, diagnoses codes for TLS, AKI and dialysis, evaluated the incidence, risk factors and impact of AKI‐D on mortality, adverse discharge and length of stay (LOS). Survey multivariable logistic regression was used to compute adjusted Odds Ratios (aOR and 95% confidence intervals (CI). An estimated 12% (2,919) of all TLS hospitalizations (n = 22 875) develop AK‐D. After adjustment for confounders, AKI‐D was associated with greater odds of mortality (aOR 1.98; (95% CI 1.60–2.45)), adverse discharge (aOR 1.63 (95% CI 1.19–2.24)) and longer LOS (19 vs 14.6 days; P < 0.01) compared with those without AKI‐D. Further studies to evaluate the association of AKI‐D on long‐term outcomes in patients with TLS are needed.
Plant metabolic clusters – from genetics to genomics
Authors: Nützmann Hans‐Wilhelm , Huang Ancheng , Osbourn Anne
Published: April 2016

Plant natural products are of great value for agriculture, medicine and a wide range of other industrial applications. The discovery of new plant natural product pathways is currently being revolutionized by two key developments. First, breakthroughs in sequencing technology and reduced cost of sequencing are accelerating the ability to find enzymes and pathways for the biosynthesis of new natural products by identifying the underlying genes. Second, there are now multiple examples in which the genes encoding certain natural product pathways have been found to be grouped together in biosynthetic gene clusters within plant genomes. These advances are now making it possible to develop strategies for systematically mining multiple plant genomes for the discovery of new enzymes, pathways and chemistries. Increased knowledge of the features of plant metabolic gene clusters – architecture, regulation and assembly – will be instrumental in expediting natural product discovery. This review summarizes progress in this area.

ContentsSummary771I.Introduction771II.Plant metabolic gene clusters – some rules and anomalies772III.Cluster regulation780IV.Why are the genes clustered?781V.Conclusions and outlook786Acknowledgements786References786
‘Not every body's cup of tea’? Theoretical perspectives in school geography
Authors: Taylor Mike
Published: April 2016

Geography teaching that highlights theoretical perspectives may help develop students’ critical disciplinary thinking, despite foundational knowledge being described to New Zealand geography teachers as ‘not every body's cup of tea’. This article extends the tea metaphor by contrasting two cultivations of theoretical perspectives in school geography. Unlike the two major cultivars of the Camellia shrub, however, this paper argues that perspectives have been minimally grown through one cultivar that focuses on the views of case study individuals and organisations. A maximal cultivation of perspectives is advanced in order to progress school‐aged understanding of the diverse nature of geographical knowledge.
Visual Iconicity in Poetry
Authors: Elleström Lars
Published: April 2016

This article argues for the advantage of applying the analytical perspective of “visual iconicity in poetry,” rather than trying to delimit the problematic category of “visual poetry,” which has been understood to be a type of poetry that deviates from normal poetry in and through its visual characteristics (for instance, poems looking like physical objects). However, visuality is actually an irrelevant feature for the specific character of “visual poetry”; it is iconicity that makes the difference. Whereas visuality is a sensory trait, iconicity is a semiotic trait consisting of meaning created by way of resemblance, and these two qualities must not be conflated.

In order to illustrate the line of reasoning, two rather different poems are analyzed. No scholars refer to Sylvia Plath's “I Am Vertical” as “visual,” but in addition to being visual this poem possesses a certain level of iconicity. Eugen Gomringer's “Wind,” on the other hand, is a standard example of “visual poetry.” Also this poem is certainly visual, even though it is not visuality but a high degree of iconicity that sets it apart from poetry such as Plath's. In fact, what is generally but misleadingly referred to as “visual poetry” is characterized by extensive iconicity.
The coronectomy technique for lower third molars: past and present
Authors: Jowett A. , Mansoor J. , Coulthard P.
Published: April 2016

Aim

To discuss the past and present evidence for the coronectomy technique for third molars.

Materials and Methods

A review of the past and present literature related to the healing of extraction sockets in the presence of root fragments.

Results

High‐quality research studies surrounding the coronectomy procedure are lacking and it is important therefore that surgeons are aware that change of practice is not yet supported. The long‐term consequences, in terms of infection or other, are not known as study follow‐up is short.

Conclusion

If coronectomy is to be considered then the authors would suggest that this is only for patients at high risk of potential nerve injury and that the patient is made aware of the risk of failure, the possible need for re‐operation and our lack of knowledge of long‐term consequences.
Explaining our Moral Reliability
Authors: Dogramaci Sinan
Published: April 2016

I critically examine an evolutionary debunking argument against moral realism. The key premise of the argument is that there is no adequate explanation of our moral reliability. I search for the strongest version of the argument; this involves exploring how ‘adequate explanation’ could be understood such that the key premise comes out true. Finally, I give areductio: in the sense in which there is no adequate explanation of our moral reliability, there is equally no adequate explanation of our inductive reliability. Thus, the argument that would debunk our moral views would also, absurdly, debunk all inductive reasoning.
I, Me, Mine: Body‐Ownership and the Generation Problem
Authors: Woollard Fiona
Published: April 2016

The Body Ownership Thesis states that each person owns her body. I address a prominent objection, the Generation Problem: the Body Ownership Thesis apparently implies that parents own their children: as we own the fruit of our property, if a parent owns her own body, she must own her child and her child's body. I argue that a person does not own the fruit of her property when that fruit is a person or the body of a person. Persons have conclusive title to their bodies, but only defeasible title to the fruits of their bodies.