bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of contingencies on mutual influence among quality awards and quality initiatives
Authors: Upadhyaya Gururaj , Bhat Subrahmanya
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the interactive nature/mutual influence (MI) among quality initiatives (QI) and quality awards (QA) in Indian organizations subject to three contingencies, namely, QA won, QI adopted before winning a QA and QI adopted after winning a QA.

Design/methodology/approach

Administration of survey to collect the data were followed by validity and reliability analyses of the instrument. Hypotheses were tested by parametric/non-parametric one-sample and independent-samples tests.

Findings

The inferences on the effect of contingencies on the MI were inconclusive. Eight QI adopted before winning the QA, have influenced four such Indian QA. Three Indian QA have influenced four QI that were adopted after winning these QA. However, this MI is independent of specific QI adopted/QA won.

Research limitations/implications

The approach to test the hypotheses, small sample size and generic research questions have led to “preliminary” recommendations/inferences. Further research with larger data and advanced methods for analysis of interaction is suggested.

Practical implications

Based on clarity of MI, preliminary recommendations for adopting some QI before/after winning a QA were made. The way in which these recommendations can be used by experienced and fresh adopters of QI/QA and givers of QA has been outlined.

Originality/value

This study attempts to fill the gap of scarce holistic studies (that evaluate numerous QI and QA models) on the interactive nature of QI and the dissemination of QI into different periods of Continuous Improvement journey.
Critiquing Food Security Inter‐governmental Partnership Approaches in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Slade Christine , Baldwin Claudia
Published: September 2016

Food security is an issue, not only in developing countries but also in developed economies such as Australia where people from vulnerable groups cannot access affordable and appropriate food on a daily basis. Agencies emphasise the need for collaborative approaches to such complex, multi‐sectoral challenges. This article analyses two inter‐governmental partnership approaches facilitating local government's response to food insecurity in 12 municipalities within the state of Victoria. We focus on the partnership approaches to collaboration, processes and structures, and collective outcomes. The comparative data analysis from in‐depth interviews and document analysis of project‐associated materials and municipal policies provides insight into the different partnership approaches. Results suggest that while strategically designed and focused inter‐governmental partnerships can build local government capacity to respond to food security, there are systemic, regulatory, and resource barriers in play. In conclusion, the implications of these findings for future inter‐governmental approaches to address complex challenges are considered.
Indian Messiah: The Attraction of Meher Baba to British Audiences in the 1930s
Authors: Mukherjee Sumita
Published: September 2016

This article considers the British reception of Meher Baba, an Indian religious figure, who first travelled to Britain in 1931. Following a tradition of Indian religious figures who toured Britain and America in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, Baba was removed from organised religion and placed emphasis on self‐realisation, and attracted large British followings notably dominated by women. This article argues that the 1930s witnessed a continuing interest in Indian religious figures and adherence to Orientalist stereotypes about Indian religiosity despite changing political dynamics. Exploring a range of public and private responses to Baba, following comparison with his contemporary Jiddu Krishnamurti, and discussing the role of British mediators Paul Brunton and Francis Younghusband, this article explores British impressions of Indian religious figures in the 1930s and how they were informed by notions of race, religiosity, and gender.
Intergenerational solidarity: the paradox of reciprocity imbalance in ageing welfare states
Authors: Thijssen Peter
Published: September 2016

In this article a new theoretical framework is applied to a research field that is somewhat fragmented, namely that of intergenerational solidarity in ageing welfare states. Inspired by utilitarian considerations many scholars tend to problematize the lack of reciprocity characterizing intergenerational exchanges. As some generations are longer old and more numerous they may receive excessive state‐administered support of the younger generations, especially in a democratic setting. However, in reality there is limited empirical evidence of intergenerational conflict and theoretical explanations of this paradox are rare. An integrated and dynamical approach that incorporates Durkheim's solidarity theory, Honneth's intersubjective recognition theory, and the current work on reciprocal exchange is necessary in order to understand the survival of intergenerational solidarity in ageing welfare states. According to this model reciprocal recognition leading to the empathization of exchanges is the driving force of intergenerational solidarity in a prefigurative and democratized culture where the status of the young has risen dramatically. Hence, we come to the paradoxical conclusion that attempts to preserve intergenerational solidarity by openly denouncing excessive transfers and trying to bypass them institutionally sometimes might be counterproductive because they may erode their empathic underpinnings.
Differences in Hospital Readmission Risk across All Payer Groups in South Carolina
Authors: Chakraborty Hrishikesh , Axon Robert Neal , Brittingham Jordan , Lyons Genevieve Ray , Cole Laura , Turley Christine B.
Published: September 2016

Objective

To evaluate differences in hospital readmission risk across all payers in South Carolina (SC).

Data Sources/Study Setting

South Carolina Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Office (SCRFA) statewide all payer claims database including 2,476,431 hospitalizations in SC acute care hospitals between 2008 and 2014.

Study Design

We compared the odds of unplanned all‐cause 30‐day readmission for private insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, uninsured, and other payers and examined interaction effects between payer and index admission characteristics using generalized estimating equations.

Data Collection

SCRFA receives claims and administrative health care data from all SC health care facilities in accordance with SC state law.

Principal Findings

Odds of readmission were lower for females compared to males in private, Medicare, and Medicaid payers. African Americans had higher odds of readmission compared to whites across private insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid, but they had lower odds among the uninsured. Longer length of stay had the strongest association with readmission for private and other payers, whereas an increased number of comorbidities related to the highest readmission odds within Medicaid.

Conclusions

Associations between index admission characteristics and readmission likelihood varied significantly with payer. Findings should guide the development of payer‐specific quality improvement programs.
In vitro β‐Carotene Bioaccessibility and Lipid Digestion in Emulsions: Influence of Pectin Type and Degree of Methyl‐Esterification
Authors: Verrijssen Tina A.J. , Christiaens Stefanie , Verkempinck Sarah H.E. , Boeve Jeroen , Grauwet Tara , Van Loey Ann M. , Salvia‐Trujillo Laura , Hendrickx Marc E.
Published: September 2016

Citrus pectin (CP) and sugar beet pectin (SBP) were demethoxylated and fully characterized in terms of pectin properties in order to investigate the influence of the pectin degree of methyl‐esterification (DM) and the pectin type on the in vitro β‐carotene bioaccessibility and lipid digestion in emulsions. For the CP based emulsions containing β‐carotene enriched oil, water and pectin, the β‐carotene bioaccessibility, and lipid digestion were higher in the emulsions with pectin with a higher DM (57%; “CP57 emulsion”) compared to the emulsions with pectin with a lower DM (30%; “CP30 emulsion”) showing that the DM plays an important role. In contrast, in SBP‐based emulsions, nor β‐carotene bioaccessibility nor lipid digestion were dependent on pectin DM. Probably here, other pectin properties are more important factors. It was observed that β‐carotene bioaccessibility and lipid digestion were lower in the CP30 emulsion in comparison with the CP57, SBP32, and SBP58 emulsions. However, the β‐carotene bioaccessibility of CP57 emulsion was similar to that of the SBP emulsions, whereas the lipid digestion was not. It seems that pectin type and pectin DM (in case of CP) are determining which components can be incorporated into micelles. Because carotenoids and lipids have different structures and polarities, their incorporation may be different. This knowledge can be used to engineer targeted (digestive) functionalities in food products. If both high β‐carotene bioaccessibility and high lipid digestion are targeted, SBP emulsions are the best options. The CP57 emulsion can be chosen if high β‐carotene bioaccessibility but lower lipid digestion is desired.
Ultrasound Pretreatment as an Useful Tool to Enhance Egg White Protein Hydrolysis: Kinetics, Reaction Model, and Thermodinamics
Authors: Jovanović Jelena R. , Stefanović Andrea B. , Šekuljica Nataša Ž. , Tanasković Sonja M. Jakovetić , Dojčinović Marina B. , Bugarski Branko M. , Knežević‐Jugović Zorica D.
Published: September 2016

The impact of ultrasound waves generated by probe‐type sonicator and ultrasound cleaning bath on egg white protein susceptibility to hydrolysis by alcalase compared to both thermal pretreatment and conventional enzymatic hydrolysis was quantitatively investigated. A series of hydrolytic reactions was carried out in a stirred tank reactor at different substrate concentrations, enzyme concentrations, and temperatures using untreated, and pretreated egg white proteins (EWPs). The kinetic model based on substrate inhibition and second‐order enzyme deactivation successfully predicts the experimental behavior providing an effective tool for comparison and optimization.

The ultrasound pretreatments appear to greatly improve the enzymatic hydrolysis of EWPs under different conditions when compare to other methods. The apparent reaction rate constants for proteolysis (k2) are 0.009, 0.011, 0.053, and 0.045 min−1 for untreated EWPs, and those pretreated with heat, probe‐type sonicator, and ultrasound cleaning bath technologies, respectively. The ultrasound pretreatment also decreases hydrolysis activation (Ea) and enzyme deactivation (Ed) energy, enthalpy (ΔH), and entropy (ΔS) of activation and for the probe‐type sonication this decrease is 61.7%, 61.6%, 63.6%, and 32.2%, respectively, but ultrasound has little change in Gibbs free energy value in the temperature range of 318 to 338 K. The content of sulfhydryl groups and ζ potential show a significant increase (P < 0.05) for both applied ultrasound pretreatments and the reduction of particle size distribution are achieved, providing some evidence that the ultrasound causes EWP structural changes affecting the proteolysis rate.
Physical, Textural, and Antioxidant Properties of Extruded Waxy Wheat Flour Snack Supplemented with Several Varieties of Bran
Authors: Fleischman Emily F. , Kowalski Ryan J. , Morris Craig F. , Nguyen Thuy , Li Chongjun , Ganjyal Girish , Ross Carolyn F.
Published: September 2016

Wheat represents a ubiquitous commodity and although industries valorize 10% of wheat bran, most of this antioxidant‐rich byproduct gets fed to livestock. The objective of this study was to incorporate wheat bran into an extruded snack. Bran samples from hard red spring, soft white club cv. Bruehl, and purple wheat lines were added to cv. Waxy‐Pen wheat flour (Triticum aestivum L.) at replacement concentrations of 0%, 12.5%, 25%, and 37.5% (w/w; n = 10). Extrudates were evaluated for antioxidant capacity, color, and physical properties. Results showed that high fiber concentrations altered several pasting properties, reduced expansion ratios (P < 0.0001), and created denser products (P < 0.0001), especially for white bran supplemented extrudates. Purple bran supplemented extrudates produced harder products compared to white and red bran treatments (P < 0.0001). Extrudates produced with 37.5% (w/w) of each bran variety absorbed more water than the control with no added bran. The oxygen radical absorption capacity assay, expressed as Trolox Equivalents, showed that extrudates made with addition of red (37.5%) and purple (37.5%) bran had higher values compared to the other treatments; the control, red, and white bran treatments had less antioxidant activity after extrusion (P < 0.0001) compared to purple bran supplemented extrudates. Purple and red brans may serve as viable functional ingredients in extruded foods given their higher antioxidant activities. Future studies could evaluate how bran variety and concentration, extruded shape, and flavor influence consumer acceptance.
Application of Freezing and Thawing in Apple (Malus domestica) Juice Extraction
Authors: Nadulski Rafał , Kobus Zbigniew , Wilczyński Kamil , Zawiślak Kazimierz , Grochowicz Józef , Guz Tomasz
Published: September 2016

The paper presents the results of the research on the impact of enzymatic liquefaction, freezing and thawing on the efficiency of juice pressure extraction from apple pulp and quality of the obtained juices. The research was conducted using three types of pretreatment prior the pressing: crushing and enzymatic liquefaction in temperature of 25 °C, crushing and enzymatic liquefaction in temperature of 45 °C and crushing followed by freezing and thawing of the pulp. The study included three varieties of apples. The juice was obtained using a laboratory basket press. It was determined that the pretreatment of the pulp as well as the varietal characteristics of the fruits have a significant impact on the efficiency of the pressure extraction process. The enzymatic treatment of the pulp, irrespective of the temperature at which it was conducted, significantly increased the efficiency of the process. No effect of the temperature (25 or 45 °C) of enzymatic treatment on the efficiency of the pressure extraction process was found. Pretreatment of the pulp based on freezing and thawing contributes to the increase of efficiency of pressing in the case of two apple cultivars, that is, Idared and Red Delicious. It was showed that total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, the soluble solids content and juice acidity (pH) depend on the pretreatment of the pulp and the varietal characteristics of apples. Following the application of pretreatment of the pulp, an increase was observed in the content of polyphenols and in the antioxidant activity of the juices obtained.
Mid‐term results of Oxford phase‐3 medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty for medial arthritis in Chinese patients
Authors: Xu Taotao , Lao Yangjun , Wang Jitao , Liu Fucun , Xiao Luwei , Tong Peijian
Published: September 2016

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the mid‐term results of an Oxford phase‐3 unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) for medial arthritis in Chinese patients.

Methods

The study included 64 patients who underwent a minimally invasive Oxford phase‐3 UKA for medial knee arthritis. The patients were clinically evaluated preoperatively and at the final follow‐up according to the clinical and functional components of the Knee Society Score (KSS), the Hospital for Special Surgery knee score and range of motion. A Kaplan–Meier survivorship analysis was performed with revision surgery as the end point.

Results

The mean preoperative clinical KSSs increased from 63.2 to 91.4 post‐operatively, and the mean functional KSSs increased from 54.9 to 86.5 post‐operatively. In addition, the mean Hospital for Special Surgery scores increased from 59.5 to 86.4. The mean active knee flexion increased from 109.1° preoperatively to 123.6° post‐operatively. A total of six patients (six knees) required revision surgery at the time of the maximum 10‐year follow‐up. Four conversions to total knee arthroplasty were performed because of arthritis progression in the lateral compartment. One revision to total knee arthroplasty was performed for aseptic loosening, and one liner exchange was performed for wear. The cumulative survival rates at the 6‐ and 8‐year follow‐ups were 97% and 93%, respectively.

Conclusion

Oxford phase‐3 UKA was largely applicable for medial arthritis in Chinese patients. However, the Oxford phase‐3 medial UKA selection criteria for young Chinese males need further exploration to obtain the best treatment effect.
Type 1 diabetes risk in children born to women with fertility problems: a cohort study in 1.5 million Danish children
Authors: Hargreave Marie , Kjaer Susanne K. , Jørgensen Marit E. , Jensen Allan
Published: September 2016

Introduction

While some studies have indicated that children born following fertility treatment are at an increased risk for insulin resistance and higher blood glucose levels, no study to date has investigated the risk of type 1 diabetes. In this large population‐based cohort study we aim to assess the association between maternal fertility problems and the risk of type 1 diabetes in children.

Material and methods

Information on all children, born in Denmark from 1987 to 2010, was extracted from the Civil Registration System and linked with the Danish Infertility Cohort to identify maternal fertility status. Diabetes information was obtained from the National Patient Register and the Childhood Diabetes Register. A Cox proportional hazard model was used to calculate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals.

Results

A total of 1 550 519 children made up the study cohort, of whom 110 393 (7.1%) were born to women with fertility problems. In all, 313 children born to women with fertility problems (0.36%) and 5176 children born to women without fertility problems (0.28%) were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The risk of type 1 diabetes was not affected by maternal fertility status (hazard ratio 1.01, 95% CI 0.90–1.13) when taking into account birth year, sex, history of parental diabetes, parental age and age at diagnosis.

Conclusions

Our results showed no association between maternal fertility problems and risk of type 1 diabetes in children.
Doublecortin‐like kinase 1‐positive enterocyte – a new cell type in human intestine
Authors: Leppänen Joni , Helminen Olli , Huhta Heikki , Kauppila Joonas H. , Miinalainen Ilkka , Ronkainen Veli‐Pekka , Saarnio Juha , Lehenkari Petri P. , Karttunen Tuomo J.
Published: September 2016

Doublecortin‐like kinase 1 (DCLK1) is a microtubule‐associated kinase. In murine intestine, DCLK1 marks tuft cells with characteristic microvilli, features of neuroendocrine cells and also quiescent stem cell‐like properties. The occurrence and pathological role of DCLK1‐positive cells in human intestinal mucosa is unknown. We analysed DCLK1 expression in healthy duodenal, jejunal and colorectal mucosa samples (n = 35), and in duodenal specimens from patients with coeliac disease (n = 20). The samples were immunohistochemically double‐stained with DCLK1, and synaptophysin, chromogranin A and Ki‐67. Ultrastructure of DCLK1‐expressing duodenal cells was assessed using correlative light and electron microscopy. DCLK1 expression was seen in about 1% of epithelial cells diffusely scattered through the intestinal epithelium. Electron microscopy showed that the duodenal DCLK1‐positive cells had short apical microvilli similar to neighbouring enterocytes and cytoplasmic granules on the basal side. DCLK1‐positive cells were stained with synaptophysin. The number of DCLK1‐positive cells was decreased in villus atrophy in coeliac disease. Our findings indicate that in human intestinal epithelium, DLCK1‐positive cells form a subpopulation of non‐proliferating neuroendocrine cells with apical brush border similar to that in enterocytes, and their number is decreased in untreated coeliac disease.
Effects of different dietary tryptophan : lysine ratios and sanitary conditions on growth performance, plasma urea nitrogen, serum haptoglobin and ileal histomorphology of weaned pigs
Authors: Jayaraman Balachandar , Htoo John K. , Nyachoti Charles M.
Published: September 2016

A total of 180 mixed‐sex pigs (Duroc × (Yorkshire × Landrace); average initial body weight of 7.36 ± 0.2 kg) weaned at 21 ± 1 days were fed corn‐soybean meal‐wheat‐based diets to determine the optimal standardized ileal digestible (SID) tryptophan to lysine ratio (Trp : Lys) in a 2 × 5 factorial arrangement (two sanitary conditions: clean (CL) and unclean (UCL), and five dietary treatments (SID Trp : Lys (16, 18, 20, 22 and 24%)). In each sanitary condition, blood was collected on days 0 and 14 to determine plasma urea nitrogen and on day 14, ileal tissue (one pig per pen) was collected for the measurement of gut morphology. Pigs kept under UCL conditions had lower growth rate (P < 0.05) than under CL conditions. Under CL conditions, the estimated optimal SID Trp : Lys for average daily gain (ADG) was 19.7% whereas under UCL conditions these values were 20.5% and 19.0% for ADG and gain‐to‐feed ratio, respectively. Under CL conditions, increasing SID Trp : Lys reduced (linear, P = 0.05) plasma urea nitrogen concentration but had no effect (P > 0.10) on villous height (VH), crypt depth ( CD) and VH : CD. In conclusion, an SID Trp : Lys to optimize ADG for pigs raised under UCL conditions was higher (4%) than CL conditions.
The variability in beta‐cell function in placebo‐treated subjects with type 2 diabetes: application of the weight‐HbA1c‐insulin‐glucose (WHIG) model
Authors: Duong Janna K. , de Winter Willem , Choy Steve , Plock Nele , Naik Himanshu , Krauwinkel Walter , Visser Sandra A.G. , Verhamme Katia M. , Sturkenboom Miriam C. , Stricker B.H. , Danhof Meindert
Published: September 2016

Aim

The weight‐glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1C)‐insulin‐glucose (WHIG) model describes the effects of changes in weight on insulin sensitivity (IS) in newly diagnosed, obese subjects receiving placebo treatment. This model was applied to a wider population of placebo‐treated subjects, to investigate factors influencing the variability in IS and β‐cell function.

Methods

The WHIG model was applied to the WHIG dataset (Study 1) and two other placebo datasets (Studies 2 and 3). Studies 2 and 3 consisted of nonobese subjects and subjects with advanced type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Body weight, fasting serum insulin (FSI), fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and HbA1c were used for nonlinear mixed‐effects modelling (using NONMEM v7.2 software). Sources of interstudy variability (ISV) and potential covariates (age, gender, diabetes duration, ethnicity, compliance) were investigated.

Results

An ISV for baseline parameters (body weight and β‐cell function) was required. The baseline β‐cell function was significantly lower in subjects with advanced T2DM (median difference: Study 2: 15.6%, P < 0.001; Study 3: 22.7%, P < 0.001) than in subjects with newly diagnosed T2DM (Study 1). A reduction in the estimated insulin secretory response in subjects with advanced T2DM was observed but diabetes duration was not a significant covariate.

Conclusion

The WHIG model can be used to describe the changes in weight, IS and β‐cell function in the diabetic population. IS remained relatively stable between subjects but a large ISV in β‐cell function was observed. There was a trend towards decreasing β‐cell responsiveness with diabetes duration, and further studies, incorporating subjects with a longer history of diabetes, are required.
Outcomes of annual surveillance imaging in an adult and paediatric cohort of succinate dehydrogenase B mutation carriers
Authors: Tufton Nicola , Shapiro Lucy , Srirangalingam Umasuthan , Richards Polly , Sahdev Anju , Kumar Ajith V. , McAndrew Lorraine , Martin Lee , Berney Daniel , Monson John , Chew Shern L. , Waterhouse Mona , Druce Maralyn , Korbonits Márta , Metcalfe Karl , Drake William M. , Storr Helen L. , Akker Scott A.
Published: September 2016

Objective

For ‘asymptomatic carriers’ of the succinate dehydrogenase subunit B (SDHB) gene mutations, there is currently no consensus as to the appropriate modality or frequency of surveillance imaging. We present the results of a surveillance programme of SDHB mutation carriers.

Design

Review of clinical outcomes of a surveillance regimen in patients identified to have an SDHB gene mutation, based on annual MRI, in a single UK tertiary referral centre.

Patients

A total of 92 patients were identified with an SDHB gene mutation. a total of 27 index patients presented with symptoms, and 65 patients were identified as asymptomatic carriers.

Measurements

Annual MRI of the abdomen, with alternate year MRI of the neck, thorax and pelvis. Presence of an SDHB‐related tumour included paraganglioma (PGL), phaeochromocytoma (PCC), renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST).

Results

A total of 43 PGLs, eight PCCs and one RCC occurred in the 27 index patients (23 solitary, four synchronous, five metachronous). A further 15 SDHB‐related tumours (11 PGLs, three RCCs, one GIST) were identified in the asymptomatic carriers on surveillance screening (25% of screened carriers): 10 on the first surveillance imaging and five on subsequent imaging 2–6 years later. A total of 11 patients had malignant disease.

Conclusions

SDHB‐related tumours are picked up as early as 2 years after initial negative surveillance scan. We believe the high malignancy rate and early identification rate of tumours justifies the use of 1–2 yearly imaging protocols and MRI‐based imaging could form the mainstay of surveillance in this patient group thereby minimizing radiation exposure.
Golden Eagle fatalities and the continental‐scale consequences of local wind‐energy generation
Authors: Katzner Todd E. , Nelson David M. , Braham Melissa A. , Doyle Jacqueline M. , Fernandez Nadia B. , Duerr Adam E. , Bloom Peter H. , Fitzpatrick Matthew C. , Miller Tricia A. , Culver Renee C. E. , Braswell Loan , DeWoody J. Andrew
Published: September 2016

Renewable energy production is expanding rapidly despite mostly unknown environmental effects on wildlife and habitats. We used genetic and stable isotope data collected from Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) killed at the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area (APWRA) in California in demographic models to test hypotheses about the geographic extent and demographic consequences of fatalities caused by renewable energy facilities. Geospatial analyses of δ2H values obtained from feathers showed that ≥25% of these APWRA‐killed eagles were recent immigrants to the population, most from long distances away (>100 km). Data from nuclear genes indicated this subset of immigrant eagles was genetically similar to birds identified as locals from the δ2H data. Demographic models implied that in the face of this mortality, the apparent stability of the local Golden Eagle population was maintained by continental‐scale immigration. These analyses demonstrate that ecosystem management decisions concerning the effects of local‐scale renewable energy can have continental‐scale consequences.
Relation between extinction and assisted colonization of plants in the arctic‐alpine and boreal regions
Authors: Pykälä Juha
Published: September 2016

Assisted colonization of vascular plants is considered by many ecologists an important tool to preserve biodiversity threatened by climate change. I argue that assisted colonization may have negative consequences in arctic‐alpine and boreal regions. The observed slow movement of plants toward the north has been an argument for assisted colonization. However, these range shifts may be slow because for many plants microclimatic warming (ignored by advocates of assisted colonization) has been smaller than macroclimatic warming. Arctic‐alpine and boreal plants may have limited possibilities to disperse farther north or to higher elevations. I suggest that arctic‐alpine species are more likely to be driven to extinction because of competitive exclusion by southern species than by increasing temperatures. If so, the future existence of arctic‐alpine and boreal flora may depend on delaying or preventing the migration of plants toward the north to allow northern species to evolve to survive in a warmer climate. In the arctic‐alpine region, preventing the dispersal of trees and shrubs may be the most important method to mitigate the negative effects of climate change. The purported conservation benefits of assisted colonization should not be used to promote the migration of invasive species by forestry.
GROWTH, INEQUALITY, AND ECONOMIC FREEDOM: EVIDENCE FROM THE U.S. STATES
Authors: Bjørnskov Christian
Published: September 2016

This article returns to the discussion of how income inequality affects economic growth. The main argument of the article is that economic freedom is likely to mediate the association between inequality and growth. In a panel of 300 observations from six 5‐year periods across the 50 U.S. states, I employ five different measures of inequality. The results show that across measures, the growth effects of inequality turn more positive with more economic freedom. The moderating effects are mainly driven by measures of public sector consumption. (JEL O11, O38, O43, P48)
Smart Protected Area Placement Decelerates Biodiversity Loss: A Representation‐extinction Feedback Leads Rare Species to Extinction
Authors: Akasaka Munemitsu , Kadoya Taku , Ishihama Fumiko , Fujita Taku , Fuller Richard A.
Published: September 2016

Protected areas (PAs) spearhead global conservation efforts, but it has been repeatedly demonstrated that narrowly distributed species are more likely to be unrepresented in PAs. This means that where local extinctions are more likely outside PAs, a positive feedback loop could render PAs largely ineffective in decelerating extinctions, even where PAs effectively abate threats. Here we empirically test the elements of this feedback loop using distribution data for 1,572 threatened plants in Japan. Narrowly distributed species were indeed less likely to overlap PAs than widespread species, and local extinction rates for unprotected populations over 15 years were 1.5 times higher than those inside PAs. A simulation model showed that new PAs will substantially reduce extinction risk for widespread species, but not for narrowly distributed species, unless they are placed very precisely in the landscape. Our results suggest that a representation‐extinction feedback will limit the effectiveness of PAs in preventing extinctions unless PA placement is carefully targeted.
Unexpected Management Choices When Accounting for Uncertainty in Ecosystem Service Tradeoff Analyses
Authors: Cabral Reniel B. , Halpern Benjamin S. , Costello Christopher , Gaines Steven D.
Published: September 2016

Resource management and conservation increasingly focus on ecosystem service provisioning and potential tradeoffs among services under different management actions. Application of bioeconomic approaches to tradeoffs assessment is touted as a way to find win‐win outcomes or avoid unnecessary stakeholder conflict. Yet, nearly all assessments to date have ignored inherent uncertainties in the provision and valuation of services. We incorporate uncertainty into the ecosystem services analytical framework and show how such inclusion improves optimal decision making. In particular, we show: (1) “suboptimal” solutions can become optimal when uncertainties are accounted for; (2) uncertainty paradoxically makes stakeholders value conservation despite their lack of preference for it; and (3) substantial losses or missed gains in ecosystem service provisioning can be incurred when uncertainty is ignored. Our results highlight the urgency of accounting for uncertainties in ecosystem services in tradeoff assessments given the widespread use of this approach by government agencies and conservation organizations.
Network Governance for Invasive Species Management
Authors: Lubell Mark , Jasny Lorien , Hastings Alan
Published: September 2016

Invasive species management depends not only on biological and economic issues but also on how governance institutions influence cooperation from networks of stakeholders. We use the “contingency” framework for network governance to analyze why eradication of invasive Spartina in San Francisco Bay has been more successful than many other eradication efforts. The core argument is that invasive Spartina features antecedent conditions that favor a centralized network as the best governance approach, as demonstrated by a quantitative survey of Spartina stakeholders. This centralized policy network, with a clearly defined core of actors with the expertise, authority, and resources, produces effective cooperation. The contingency framework has implications for invasive species management more generally, as well as other conservation issues featuring dynamic spatial ecological processes.
A new method for self‐paced peak performance testing on a treadmill
Authors: Hunt Kenneth J. , Anandakumaran Prasanna , Loretz Jonas A. , Saengsuwan Jittima
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Self‐paced maximal testing methods may be able to exploit central mediation of function‐limiting fatigue and therefore have potential to generate more valid estimates of peak oxygen uptake. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of a new method for self‐paced peak performance testing on treadmills and to compare peak and submaximal performance outcomes with those obtained using a non‐self‐paced (‘computer‐paced’) method employing predetermined speed and slope profiles.

Methods

The proposed self‐paced method is based upon automatic subject positioning using feedback control together with an exercise intensity which is driven by a predetermined, individualized work‐rate ramp.

Results

Peak oxygen uptake was not significantly different for the computer‐paced (CP) versus self‐paced (SP) protocols: 4·38 ± 0·48 versus 4·34 ± 0·46 ml min−1, P = 0·42. Likewise, there were no significant differences in the other peak and submaximal cardiopulmonary parameters, viz. peak heart rate, peak respiratory exchange ratio and the first and second ventilatory thresholds. Ramp duration for CP was longer than for SP: 494·5 ± 71·1 versus 371·3 ± 86·0 s, P = 0·00072. Concomitantly, the peak rate of work done against gravity was higher for CP: 264·8 ± 40·8 versus 203·8 ± 53·4 W, P = 0·0021.

Conclusions

The self‐paced approach was found to be feasible for estimation of the principal performance outcomes: the method was technically implementable, it was acceptable to the subjects and it showed good responsiveness. Further investigation of the self‐paced method, with adjustment of the target ramp‐phase duration or modification of the work‐rate calculation equations, is warranted.
Technical proficiency in cytopathology: assessment through external quality assurance
Authors: Cummings M. C. , Greaves J. , Shukor R. A. , Perkins G. , Ross J.
Published: September 2016

Objective

To assess both the feasibility and value of conducting an external quality assurance programme concerning technical aspects of cytopathology laboratory practice, and the interest by laboratories in enrolling in such a programme.

Methods

Six technical surveys, comprising staining exercises and questionnaires relating to laboratory practice, were distributed over a 4‐year period to the approximately 220 laboratories enrolled in the RCPAQAP Cytopathology slide survey modules. Staining exercises using the Papanicolaou and Romanowsky techniques, the preparation of urine and body fluid specimens and immunocytochemistry on the cell block material were assessed. Accompanying relevant questionnaires were included, and one survey comprised a questionnaire alone concerning the collection of urinary tract and body fluid samples.

Results

Provision of an external cytopathology technical module was feasible for the RCPAQAP and participation rates (maximum of 87% per survey; average 68% for stained slides and 66% for questionnaires) were commendable, particularly considering these were optional undertakings with some exercises not applicable to all laboratories. The great majority of submitted slides were scored as satisfactory, and there was an especially high standard for the immunocytochemical staining exercise with 95% considered satisfactory, including 50.6% with a perfect score. Reasons for suboptimal scores were provided for potential quality improvement for interested laboratories. A wealth of information relating to laboratory practice was provided to the RCPAQAP which was collated and summarised for laboratory use.

Conclusions

The provision of a technical module in cytopathology is both a feasible and valuable undertaking of interest to laboratories which should become standard practice for cytopathology external quality assurance providers.
Clinical outcome of endoscopic covered metal stenting for resolution of benign biliary stricture: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zheng Xiao , Wu Jun , Sun Bo , Wu Ye‐Chen , Bo Zhi‐Yuan , Wan Wei , Gao Dao‐jian , Hu Bing
Published: September 2016

Background and Aim

Management of benign biliary stricture is challenging. Endoscopic therapy has evolved as the first‐line treatment for various benign biliary strictures. However, covered self‐expandable metal stents (CSEMS) have not been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of benign biliary stricture. With this goal, we conducted the present systemic review and meta‐analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic stenting with CSEMS in the treatment of benign biliary stricture.

Methods

Systematic review and meta‐analysis by searching PubMed, MEDLINE and Embase databases.

Results

In total, 37 studies (1677 patients) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Pooled stricture resolutions were achieved in 83% of cases. Median stent dwelling time was 4.4 months, with median endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography sessions of 2.0. Stricture recurrence at 4‐year follow up was 11% (95% CI, 8–14%). Pooled complication rate was 23% (95% CI, 20–26%).

Conclusions

Placement of CSEMS is effective in the treatment of benign biliary stricture with relatively short stenting duration and low long‐term stricture recurrence rate. However, more prospectively randomized studies are required to confirm the results.
Right Ventricular Outflow Tract (RVOT) Changes in Children with an Atrial Septal Defect: Focus on RVOT Velocity Time Integral, RVOT Diameter, and RVOT Systolic Excursion
Authors: Koestenberger Martin , Ravekes William , Avian Alexander , Grangl Gernot , Burmas Ante , Raith Wolfgang , Cvirn Gerhard , Grillitsch Marlene , Gamillscheg Andreas
Published: September 2016

Objective

Aim of the study was to determine the influence of right heart volume overload in children with atrial septal defect (ASD) on right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) variables.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted in 115 children (age range: 2 days–18.1 years) with a moderate to large ASD. We determined effects of age, body length (BL), body weight (BW), and body surface area (BSA) on the variables RVOT diameter, RVOT velocity time integral (VTI), and RVOT systolic excursion (SE), and tested the predictive value of published normal values for age, BW, BL, and BSA in our ASD patients.

Results

In our pediatric ASD patients, the age‐specific RVOT diameter (z‐score: +2.2, 95% CI: 2.0–2.4, P < 0.001) was significantly increased compared to normal values with 54% of our ASD patients having a z‐score >2.0. The age‐specific RVOT VTI z‐score (z‐score: +3.6, 95% CI: 3.2–3.9, P < 0.001) was significantly increased compared to normal values with 81% of our ASD patients having a z‐score >2.0. The age‐specific RVOT SE z‐score was not increased but slightly lower compared to normal values (z‐score: −0.5, 95% CI: −0.7 to −0.3, P < 0.001) with 3% of our ASD patients having a z‐score >2.0 while 12% of the patients had a z‐score <−2.

Conclusion

In our study population, we show the RVOT VTI and diameter to be relevant predictors in identifying an enlarged RVOT size and flow in children with moderate to large ASD.
A mathematical algorithm for quantification of CT image noise
Authors: Kerut Edmund K. , To Filip , Turner Michael , McKinnie James , Giles Thomas
Published: September 2016

Quantification of computed tomography (CT) noise helps in determination of radiation dosage requirements for adequate image quality. Clinical methods used include calculation of the standard deviation (SD) of a selected region of interest (ROI). In industry, wavelet decomposition has been used for image compression while removing high‐frequency noise. We evaluated a cohort of 74 consecutive patients referred for coronary artery calcium scoring and quantitated noise within a 16×16 ROI in the ascending aorta using the traditional SD method and also using a two‐dimensional dyadic wavelet decomposition method. Clinically, noise has been shown to be proportional to patient weight and also body mass index (BMI), which is a derived value from height and weight. Noise for both methods was plotted against patient parameters of height, weight, waist circumference and calculated BMI. A regression line was calculated and coefficient of determination (CoD) calculated for each. The CoD was better for height, weight, and waist circumference using the wavelet method as compared to the traditional SD method. The wavelet method of quantification of image noise may be an improved method as compared to the SD method. This method could help further refine an imaging system's determination of radiation dosage requirements to obtain a satisfactory quality image.
Borrowed Time: Sovereign Finance, Regime Type, and Leader Survival
Authors: DiGiuseppe Matthew , Shea Patrick E.
Published: September 2016

This study explores the conditional influence of sovereign credit on leader survival. We specifically focus on credit's heterogeneous effect on leadership survival across regimes. We argue that non‐democratic leaders are more sensitive to credit access and cost than democratic leadership. We use event history analysis to test the conditional relationship between sovereign credit and leader tenure from 1981 to 2004. Examining both domestic and global determinants of credit access and costs, our findings are consistent with the assertion that non‐democratic leadership survival is linked to credit even when addressing issues of endogeneity.
Effective number of breeders from sibship reconstruction: empirical evaluations using hatchery steelhead
Authors: Ackerman Michael W. , Hand Brian K. , Waples Ryan K. , Luikart Gordon , Waples Robin S. , Steele Craig A. , Garner Brittany A. , McCane Jesse , Campbell Matthew R.
Published: September 2016

Effective population size (Ne) is among the most important metrics in evolutionary biology. In natural populations, it is often difficult to collect adequate demographic data to calculate Ne directly. Consequently, genetic methods to estimate Ne have been developed. Two Ne estimators based on sibship reconstruction using multilocus genotype data have been developed in recent years: sibship assignment and parentage analysis without parents. In this study, we evaluated the accuracy of sibship reconstruction using a large empirical dataset from five hatchery steelhead populations with known pedigrees and using 95 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. We challenged the software COLONY with 2,599,961 known relationships and demonstrated that reconstruction of full‐sib and unrelated pairs was greater than 95% and 99% accurate, respectively. However, reconstruction of half‐sib pairs was poor (<5% accurate). Despite poor half‐sib reconstruction, both estimators provided accurate estimates of the effective number of breeders (Nb) when sample sizes were near or greater than the true Nb and when assuming a monogamous mating system. We further demonstrated that both methods provide roughly equivalent estimates of Nb. Our results indicate that sibship reconstruction and current SNP panels provide promise for estimating Nb in steelhead populations in the region.
Effect of alcohol consumption on all‐cause and liver‐related mortality among HIV‐infected individuals
Authors: Canan CE , Lau B , McCaul ME , Keruly J , Moore RD , Chander G
Published: September 2016

Objectives

The aim of the study was to examine the association between levels of past and current alcohol consumption and all‐cause and liver‐related mortality among people living with HIV (PLWH).

Methods

A prospective cohort study of 1855 PLWH in Baltimore, MD was carried out from 2000 to 2013. We ascertained alcohol use by (1) self‐report (SR) through a computer‐assisted self interview, and (2) medical record abstraction of provider‐documented (PD) alcohol use. SR alcohol consumption was categorized as heavy (men: > 4 drinks/day or > 14 drinks/week; women: > 3 drinks/day or > 7 drinks/week), moderate (any alcohol consumption less than heavy), and none. We calculated the cumulative incidence of liver‐related mortality and fitted adjusted cause‐specific regression models to account for competing risks.

Results

All‐cause and liver‐related mortality rates (MRs) were 43.0 and 7.2 per 1000 person‐years (PY), respectively. All‐cause mortality was highest among SR nondrinkers with PD recent (< 6 months) heavy drinking (MR = 85.4 deaths/1000 PY) and lowest among SR moderate drinkers with no PD history of heavy drinking (MR = 23.0 deaths/1000 PY). Compared with SR moderate drinkers with no PD history of heavy drinking, SR nondrinkers and moderate drinkers with PD recent heavy drinking had higher liver‐related mortality [hazard ratio (HR) = 7.28 and 3.52, respectively]. However, SR nondrinkers and moderate drinkers with a PD drinking history of > 6 months ago showed similar rates of liver‐related mortality (HR = 1.06 and 2.00, respectively).

Conclusions

Any heavy alcohol consumption was associated with all‐cause mortality among HIV‐infected individuals, while only recent heavy consumption was associated with liver‐related mortality. Because mortality risk among nondrinkers varies substantially by drinking history, current consumption alone is insufficient to assess risk.
Horizontal root fractures in posterior teeth without dental trauma: tooth/root distribution and clinical characteristics
Authors: Tsai Y.‐L. , Liao W.‐C. , Wang C.‐Y. , Chang M.‐C. , Chang S.‐H. , Chang S.‐F. , Chang C.‐W. , Huang Y.‐D. , Chan C.‐P. , Jeng J.‐H.
Published: September 2016

Aim

To describe the clinical characteristics and radiographic findings of horizontal root fractures (HRF) in posterior teeth without a history of dental trauma.

Methodology

A total 24 patients and 31 HRF cases in 28 posterior teeth were collected from 2006 to 2015. Clinical examinations and radiographic imaging were evaluated. Value of confidence intervals of the proportions was calculated for data presentation.

Results

The number of males (54%) was similar to females (46%). The patients were predominantly between 50 and 70 years of age (75%). Most HRF cases were found in nonendodontically treated teeth (79%), without crown and bridge restorations (82%), and maxillary molars (54%). Many roots of maxillary molars had developed HRF, and the probability was nearly equal. Fractured teeth usually presented with periodontal and apical bone loss, and most patients (92%) were diagnosed with full mouth chronic periodontitis. Tooth wear was another common clinical feature amongst these patients.

Conclusions

HRF in posterior teeth without dental trauma occurred mainly in patients aged between 50 and 70, in nonendodontically treated teeth, teeth with attrition but without crown and bridge restorations, maxillary molars and with periodontal and periapical bony destruction. Periodontal condition, occlusal wear and patients' age at diagnosis were the possible related factors. HRF in posterior teeth without dental trauma is a diagnostic challenge and even misdiagnosed. A thorough clinical examination, radiographic analysis and recognition of the clinical characteristics are helpful in the early diagnosis and treatment of HRF.