bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GLOBAL AND DISAGGREGATED MEASURES OF EARNINGS MOBILITY: EVIDENCE FROM FIVE EUROPEAN COUNTRIES
Authors: Vittori Claudia , Gregg Paul
Published: June 2016

This paper offers the first application of the local approximation method pioneered by Schluter and Trede (2003) for the Shorrocks mobility indices across the earnings distribution for a range of European Countries covering the main European social models: Denmark, Germany, Spain, the UK and Italy in the pre‐accession EU (1994‐2001). This insightful approach allows us to offer a global and disaggregate analysis of mobility as proportionate change in inequality and hence provide the reader with a full set of information to make his/her own judgment about the extent of mobility and country ranking. Specifically, we investigate the degree to which mobility is driven by low or high earners and how this picture changes across three different earnings measures: full‐time full‐year working, adding part‐time working and then part‐year working.

Our results draw out some general key facts. First of all the vast bulk of the measured mobility occurs in the tails especially the lower tail with at least half of the index driven by mobility in the bottom earning quintile. Second, in the top 20 percent of the distribution there are few movements of earnings that effect the level of permanent inequality except in Denmark. Third, no country has a clear dominance for mobility across the full earnings distribution but Denmark differs from the other countries with clearly greater mobility in the middle and at the top. Finally, we find that with the exception of Denmark and Italy, mobility does not lead to clear convergence to the mean but rather to points around 0.7‐0.8 and 1.5 to 2 times the mean.
A Pilot Metabolic Profiling Study of Patients With Neonatal Jaundice and Response to Phototherapy
Authors: Cai A , Qi S , Su Z , Shen H , Yang Y , Cai W , Dai Y
Published: June 2016

Phototherapy has been widely used in treating neonatal jaundice, but detailed metabonomic profiles of neonatal jaundice patients and response to phototherapy have not been characterized. Our aim was to depict the serum metabolic characteristics of neonatal jaundice patients relative to controls and changes in response to phototherapy. A 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)‐based metabonomic approach was employed to study the metabolic profiling of serum from healthy infants (n = 25) and from infants with neonatal jaundice (n = 30) pre‐ and postphototherapy. The acquired data were processed by multivariate principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal partial least‐squares‐discriminant analysis (OPLS‐DA). The PLS‐DA and OPLS‐DA model identified nine metabolites capable of distinguishing patients from controls. In addition, 28 metabolites such as β‐glucose, α‐glucose, valine, and pyruvate changed in response to phototherapy. This study offers useful information on metabolic disorders in neonatal jaundice patients and the effects of phototherapy on lipids, amino acid, and energy metabolism.
Allele surfing promotes microbial adaptation from standing variation
Authors: Gralka Matti , Stiewe Fabian , Farrell Fred , Möbius Wolfram , Waclaw Bartlomiej , Hallatschek Oskar
Published: June 2016

The coupling of ecology and evolution during range expansions enables mutations to establish at expanding range margins and reach high frequencies. This phenomenon, called allele surfing, is thought to have caused revolutions in the gene pool of many species, most evidently in microbial communities. It has remained unclear, however, under which conditions allele surfing promotes or hinders adaptation. Here, using microbial experiments and simulations, we show that, starting with standing adaptive variation, range expansions generate a larger increase in mean fitness than spatially uniform population expansions. The adaptation gain results from ‘soft’ selective sweeps emerging from surfing beneficial mutations. The rate of these surfing events is shown to sensitively depend on the strength of genetic drift, which varies among strains and environmental conditions. More generally, allele surfing promotes the rate of adaptation per biomass produced, which could help developing biofilms and other resource‐limited populations to cope with environmental challenges.
Genomewide analysis of copy number variants in alopecia areata in a Central European cohort reveals association with MCHR2
Authors: Fischer Johannes , Degenhardt Franziska , Hofmann Andrea , Redler Silke , Basmanav F. Buket , Heilmann‐Heimbach Stefanie , Hanneken Sandra , Giehl Kathrin A. , Wolff Hans , Moebus Susanne , Kruse Roland , Lutz Gerhard , Blaumeiser Bettina , Böhm Markus , Garcia Bartels Natalie , Blume‐Peytavi Ulrike , Petukhova Lynn , Christiano Angela M. , Nöthen Markus M. , Betz Regina C.
Published: June 2016

Alopecia areata (AA) is a common hair loss disorder of autoimmune aetiology, which often results in pronounced psychological distress. Understanding of the pathophysiology of AA is increasing, due in part to recent genetic findings implicating common variants at several genetic loci. To date, no study has investigated the contribution of copy number variants (CNVs) to AA, a prominent class of genomic variants involved in other autoimmune disorders. Here, we report a genomewide‐ and a candidate gene‐focused CNV analysis performed in a cohort of 585 patients with AA and 1340 controls of Central European origin. A nominally significant association with AA was found for CNVs in the following five chromosomal regions: 4q35.2, 6q16.3, 9p23, 16p12.1 and 20p12.1. The most promising finding was a 342.5‐kb associated region in 6q16.3 (duplications in 4/585 patients; 0/1340 controls). The duplications spanned the genes MCHR2 and MCHR2‐AS1, implicated in melanin‐concentrating hormone (MCH) signalling. These genes have not been implicated in previous studies of AA pathogenesis. However, previous research has shown that MCHR2 affects the scale colour of barfin flounder fish via the induction of melanin aggregation. AA preferentially affects pigmented hairs, and the hair of patients with AA frequently shows a change in colour when it regrows following an acute episode of AA. This might indicate a relationship between AA, pigmentation and MCH signalling. In conclusion, the present results provide suggestive evidence for the involvement of duplications in MCHR2 in AA pathogenesis.
Low haemoglobin density for detecting iron deficiency across a large population, including pregnancy
Authors: Crispin P. , Sinclair F. , Andriolo K.
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Low haemoglobin density (LHD%) from Coulter counters has been suggested as a means to detect iron deficiency. Its performance in a broad population group, including pregnancy, has not been evaluated.

Methods

A retrospective study of adult and paediatric (under 12 years old) patient samples referred for blood counts and iron studies between October 2013 and March 2015. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to evaluate the performance of LHD% adults, children, and in the antenatal subgroup.

Results

Using a strict definition for iron deficiency, compared with a selected normal cohort, LHD% had a ROC area under the curve (AUC) of 0.90 (0.89–0.91), but in an unselected cohort, the AUC fell to 0.74 (0.73–0.75) with a sensitivity of 74% and specificity of 60% at a cut‐off value of 5.9%. In the paediatric cohort, the AUC was 0.79(0.73–0.85), giving a sensitivity and specificity of 75% and 68%, respectively. LHD% did not effectively identify iron deficiency in pregnancy with an AUC of 0.60 (0.54–0.65) and was no better than MCV at detecting iron deficiency.

Conclusion

LHD% detects iron deficiency in adult and paediatric populations, but not in the antenatal setting, and does not appear superior to MCV.
The role of institutions in explaining wage determination in the Eurozone: A panel cointegration approach
Authors: CAMARERO Mariam , D'ADAMO Gaetano , TAMARIT Cecilio
Published: June 2016

This article estimates the equilibrium wage equation for the Eurozone over the period 1995–2011 using panel cointegration techniques that allow for cross‐section dependence and structural breaks. As expected, the results show that wages have a positive relationship with productivity and a negative relationship with unemployment. The authors also include institutional variables, showing that more flexible labour markets are consistent with wage moderation. They find that, since 2004, increased international competition has made wage determination more strictly related to productivity, and that real exchange rate appreciation triggers a drop in wages. Their results also indicate that government intervention and wage bargaining concertation have a wage‐moderating role.
Ownership restructuring and wage inequality in urban China
Authors: WHALLEY John , XING Chunbing
Published: June 2016

Urban income inequality is an increasingly important driver of China's overall income inequality. Using three urban household surveys for 1995, 2002 and 2007, the authors examine how change in enterprise ownership structure – one of the major features of China's economic transition – has contributed to widening urban wage inequality. While wage dispersion was higher in the private sector over the period 1995–2007, it increased faster in the public sector. However, over 50 per cent of the increase in urban wage inequality is associated with labour reallocation from the public to the private sector. Urban wage inequality may thus widen further if more labour is reallocated to the private sector.
Factor income distribution and growth regimes in Latin America, 1950–2012
Authors: ALARCO Germán
Published: June 2016

After a comprehensive review of the literature on economic growth regimes, the author develops an econometric model to determine the type of growth regime prevailing in 16 Latin American countries over the period 1950–2012, using statistical data on the respective wage share and profit share of GDP. After analysing the evolution of factor income distribution in relation to economic growth during the period in question, the author concludes that most Latin American economies have a wage‐led growth regime, and that redistribution policies targeted at wages are therefore conducive to economic growth.
Quality of life changes in children following emergency dental extractions under general anaesthesia
Authors: Wong Susan , Anthonappa Robert P. , Ekambaram Manikandan , McGrath Colman , King NIGEL M. , Winters John C.
Published: June 2016

Objectives

To assess the changes in the oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) of 221 preschool children who presented to the emergency department with the consequences of untreated dental caries requiring dental extractions under general anaesthesia (DEGA).

Methods

Two hundred and twenty‐one healthy preschool children, who required emergency DEGA, were recruited over a period of 12 months. The same parent or caregiver completed the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS) questionnaire; both, prior to the DEGA and at the 2‐week post‐treatment visit. Data were analysed using repeated anova with adjustments for multiple comparisons using the Bonferroni tests with the significance level set at 5%.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐six participants, with a mean age of 4.02 and a mean dmft score of 8.27 (SD = 4.13), completed the 2‐week post‐treatment questionnaires. The overall ECOHIS, CIS, and FIS scores decreased significantly (P < 0.001) after emergency DEGA, demonstrating large effect sizes. The biggest decrease in prevalence after emergency DEGA was observed for the items of pain in teeth, trouble sleeping, being irritated or frustrated, difficulty drinking food, and parents being upset.

Conclusions

The OHRQoL of preschool children, who presented to the emergency department with the consequences of untreated dental caries, was significantly improved following emergency DEGA.
Biogeographical barriers to dispersal and rare gene flow shape population genetic structure in red‐footed boobies (Sula sula)
Authors: Morris‐Pocock James A. , Anderson David J. , Friesen Vicki L.
Published: June 2016

Aim

The ecological and biogeographical factors that influence population differentiation in seabirds are likely to be too complex and nuanced to be captured by many commonly held models of population differentiation. Pelagic seabirds exhibit high natal philopatry but can disperse long distances, potentially leading to long periods of genetic isolation with rare gene flow between isolated populations. Here, we assess levels of population genetic structure and gene flow in red‐footed boobies (Sula sula) to test two hypotheses: (1) terrestrial and marine barriers to gene flow have caused population genetic differentiation among red‐footed booby populations, and (2) despite high genetic differentiation among populations, rare gene flow still occurs among populations.

Location

Tropical oceans.

Methods

We genotyped 282 red‐footed boobies at microsatellite, nuclear intron and mitochondrial markers. We applied basic tests of population differentiation, such as analysis of molecular variance, and applied modern statistical phylogeographical methods (e.g., structure, BayesAss) to investigate the history of gene flow.

Results

Red‐footed boobies form four major genetic populations that correspond to oceanographic regions (Atlantic, Indian, Western+Central Pacific and eastern Pacific Oceans). However, gene flow has occurred recently among these populations. Further differentiation was found within ocean basins. Although the levels of gene flow within ocean basins are more difficult to assess, gene flow appears to have occurred between genetically differentiated Indian Ocean colonies.

Main conclusions

The population genetic structure of red‐footed boobies has been driven primarily by major continental and marine barriers to gene flow that also drive differentiation in other pelagic seabirds (e.g., the Isthmus of Panama and eastern Pacific basin). However, dispersal across marine barriers (but not major continental barriers) appears to have been relatively common. We suggest that such patterns of long‐term isolation and rare gene flow may be common to pelagic seabirds.
Genetic distinction between contiguous urban and rural multimammate mice in Tanzania despite gene flow
Authors: Gryseels S. , Goüy de Bellocq J. , Makundi R. , Vanmechelen K. , Broeckhove J. , Mazoch V. , Šumbera R. , Zima J. , Leirs H. , Baird S. J. E.
Published: June 2016

Special conditions are required for genetic differentiation to arise at a local geographical scale in the face of gene flow. The Natal multimammate mouse, Mastomys natalensis, is the most widely distributed and abundant rodent in sub‐Saharan Africa. A notorious agricultural pest and a natural host for many zoonotic diseases, it can live in close proximity to humans and appears to compete with other rodents for the synanthropic niche. We surveyed its population genetic structure across a 180‐km transect in central Tanzania along which the landscape varied between agricultural land in a rural setting and natural woody vegetation, rivers, roads and a city (Morogoro). We sampled M. natalensis across 10 localities and genotyped 15 microsatellite loci from 515 individuals. Hierarchical STRUCTURE analyses show a K‐invariant pattern distinguishing Morogoro suburbs (located in the centre of the transect) from nine surrounding rural localities. Landscape connectivity analyses in Circuitscape and comparison of rainfall patterns suggest that neither geographical isolation nor natural breeding asynchrony could explain the genetic differentiation of the urban population. Using the isolation‐with‐migration model implemented in IMa2, we inferred that a split between suburban and rural populations would have occurred recently (<150 years ago) with higher urban effective population density consistent with an urban source to rural sink of effective migration. The observed genetic differentiation of urban multimammate mice is striking given the uninterrupted distribution of the animal throughout the landscape and the high estimates of effective migration (2NeM = 3.0 and 29.7), suggesting a strong selection gradient across the urban boundary.
It is complicated! – misunderstanding the complexities of ‘complex’
Authors: Sturmberg Joachim P. , Martin Carmel M. , Katerndahl David A.
Published: June 2016

Terminology matters ‐ as Lakoff emphasised, words and phrases evoke powerful images and frames of understanding. It is for that reason that we need to discern and use appropriately the term complex/complexity in the health science/professional/policy domain. Complex is the fashionable term used when in reality one means ‘complicated’, ‘difficult to understand’ or ‘multiple simultaneous actions’. However, this is not what complex means. The Latin term means ‘entwined/interwoven’ ‐ a structural characteristic describing systems. Complexity arises from the interactions between structurally connected entities ‐ a functional characteristic of a system.

The basis of scientific rigor is a clear understanding of a discipline's epistemology. Complexity refers to the emergence of outcomes from the interactions of a system's constituent components (and thus has nothing in common with the colloquial meaning of complicatedness).
Fetal nasal bone length at 19–26 weeks’ gestation in Vietnam
Authors: Tomai Xuan‐Hong , Phan Thanh‐Hai
Published: June 2016

Aim

The purpose of this study was to establish the normal range of fetal nasal bone length (NBL) at the second trimester of gestation in Vietnamese pregnancies.

Methods

A prospective cross‐sectional study was carried out. A total of 2432 singleton pregnancies were evaluated for fetal NBL at 19–26 weeks 6 days between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2014. Three measurements of NBL were taken and the largest value was chosen. Fetal anomalies and neonatal abnormalities were excluded.

Results

Mean fetal NBL was 6.75 ± 0.82 mm and mean gestational age was 22.2 ± 1.4 weeks. Median NBL increased linearly with advancing gestational age: NBL (mm) = 0.26 × gestational age (weeks) + 1.03 (R2 = 0.20; P < 0.000). The fifth percentile of fetal NBL ranged from 4.6 to 6.3 mm, corresponding with gestational age 19–26 weeks.

Conclusion

The normal range of NBL was established at second trimester in Vietnamese pregnancies. NBL at the fifth percentile for gestational age was different from that of other Asian ethnicities. It is necessary to define short NBL or hypoplasia of NBL with regard to ethnicity.
Factors associated with mucosal pain in patients with partial removable dental prostheses
Authors: Kumagai H. , Fueki K. , Yoshida‐Kohno E. , Wakabayashi N.
Published: June 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate factors associated with mucosal pain in patients with partial removable dental prostheses (PRDPs). In this hospital‐based cross‐sectional study, 333 patients wearing 500 PRDPs (mean age 71·4 years, men 33·3%) were consecutively recruited from prosthetic clinic of a dental hospital in Japan. Subjects rated pain intensity and frequency of denture‐bearing mucosa. An examiner recorded age, gender and systemic diseases as well as dental, mucosa, denture, sensory, behavioural‐ and psychological‐related characteristics that were possibly associated with the mucosal pain. Multivariate analyses were performed to analyse factors related to mucosal pain. Pain intensity was rated as more than score 0 (presence) in 34·2% (171/500) PRDPs, and pain was experienced after denture delivery in 42·8% (214/500) PRDPs. Logistic regression analyses showed that younger age, mucosal damage, poor mucosal condition, bone prominence, poor residual ridge, higher pain sensitivity, presence of awake bruxism, perception of oral dryness, interim denture wear and high number of missing teeth were significant independent predictors for the presence of the mucosal pain intensity and/or frequency (P < 0·05). Multiple factors are associated with mucosal pain in patients with PRDPs. Oral mucosal characteristics, age, pain sensitivity and behavioural factors seem to be more critical for mucosal pain than distribution of missing teeth and number of abutment teeth.
A novel staging system for caries severity in the primary dentition
Authors: Robertson Lawrence D. , Beltrán‐Aguilar Eugenio , Dasanayake Ananda , Phipps Kathy R. , Warren John J. , Hennessy Thomas W.
Published: June 2016

Objectives

Caries in the primary dentition (CIPD) has a high prevalence in U.S. children compared to other diseases, with substantial disparities among different population groups. Few reports correlate CIPD prevalence with clinical impairment of children's quality of life, such as tooth pain, speech delay or trauma to the child from operative restorations, which we collectively term morbidity. Likewise, current case definitions (ECC, S‐ECC) and disease metrics (mean dmfs/dmft) are not helpful in assessing morbidity for individual or groups of children. We describe a construct to stage caries severity for children ages 0 ‐5, called “CIPD Levels.” This metric is based on small interval age‐group dmft scores, and has a direct link to current and predicted morbidity for the child. It is modeled after staging systems for medical diseases in which the various stages or levels are correlated with the probability of morbidity or mortality.

Methods

We created a matrix in which CIPD Levels 0–4 are assigned for dmft scores 0‐7 depending on a child's age. CIPD Level‐4 is the highest level, and frequently results in clinical adverse outcomes, including pain and extensive restorations. We next tested this matrix with data from a high‐risk population.

Results

Among children with any cavitated caries at age <24 months, 82.8% reached the adverse outcomes threshold (CIPD Level‐4) at age 36 months. For children with dmft = 0 at 24 months, 71.4% did not reach CIPD Level‐4 at age 36 months.

Conclusion

Our new metric is useful for quantifying disease burden from caries for high‐risk children.
Frailty, pain and psychological variables among older adults living in Hong Kong nursing homes: can we do better to address multimorbidities?
Authors: Tse M. M. Y. , Lai C. , Lui J. Y. W. , Kwong E. , Yeung S. Y.
Published: June 2016

Accessible summary

What is known on the subject?

Frailty and multimorbidity are common in later life. A higher level of frailty is associated with a higher risk of adverse physical and psychological health situations.

Older adults with pain have been reported to be lonelier and more depressed, as well as less happy and less satisfied with their life as compared to those without pain.

In view of the high prevalence of pain among older adults and the reversibility of frailty, it is important to explore the relationship between pain, frailty and psychological parameters in order to devise patient‐centred interventions.

What this paper adds to existing knowledge?

Frailty index is positively correlated with the presence of pain, and associated with gender, functional mobility and loneliness.

Among these significant variables, loneliness was the factor that contributed the most to the frailty index.

What are the implications for practice?

It is essential to put the focus of healthcare on both the physical and psychological aspects of well‐being.

All nurses are advised to improve the management of pain in older people in order to lower the levels of pain, frailty and psychological distress among this population.

Nursing care should address the loneliness level especially the problem of social loneliness among older adults particularly those living in nursing homes.

Introduction

In view of the high prevalence of pain among older adults and the reversibility of frailty, it is important to explore the relationship between pain, frailty and psychological parameters in order to devise patient‐centred interventions.

Aim

To examine the levels of frailty, pain and psychological parameters among older adults living in Hong Kong nursing homes, and the cross‐sectional relationships among these items.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among 178 residents from six nursing homes. Frailty, pain, mobility, happiness, loneliness and life satisfaction of participants were assessed using validated questionnaires.

Results

A multiple linear regression (R2 = 0.338, P < 0.05) showed that the frailty index was associated with loneliness, functional mobility and gender. Among these significant variables, loneliness was the factor that contributed the most to the frailty index.

Discussion

It is essential to put the focus of healthcare on both the physical and psychological aspects of well‐being. Findings suggest that apart from improving mobility and reducing pain, loneliness could be a target of psychosocial interventions to reduce frailty and improve quality of life.

Implications for practice

It is advised that nursing care should address loneliness, especially the problem of social loneliness among older adults particularly those living in nursing homes.
A Meta‐Analysis of Empirical Research on Teaching Students with Mathematics Learning Difficulties
Authors: Dennis Minyi Shih , Sharp Emily , Chovanes Jacquelyn , Thomas Amanda , Burns Raquel M. , Custer Beth , Park Junkoung
Published: June 2016

This article quantitatively summarizes experimental and quasi‐experimental studies on teaching students with mathematics difficulties (MD) published between 2000 and 2014, research that was available following earlier syntheses. It reports the analysis of effect sizes of 25 intervention studies on participant characteristics, intervention parameters, domains of mathematics interventions, and instructional approaches and components. Results indicate that several participant characteristics (e.g., grade level and level of mathematics difficulties) and intervention parameters (e.g., methodological soundness, intervention agent, and grouping) mediated the treatment effects. In addition, different types of instructional approaches and several instructional components contributed to the improvements in mathematics performance in students with MD.
Acute liver failure caused by mushroom poisoning: still a fork in the road
Authors: Ibáñez‐Samaniego Luis , Bañares Rafael
Published: June 2016

See Article on Page 1043
Dissociated findings of repetitive nerve stimulation test among intrinsic hand muscles in myasthenia gravis
Authors: Matsumoto Hideyuki , Akahori Tsugumi , Yasaka Kyoko , Unuma Atsushi , Hashida Hideji
Published: June 2016

The patient was an 82‐year‐old woman who presented with severe respiratory failure and required a ventilator. Neurological examinations showed consciousness disturbance, ptosis, poor eye and respiratory movements, and generalized muscular weakness. A repetitive nerve stimulation test clearly showed waning in abductor pollicis brevis, but not in abductor digiti minimi. The treatments were effective. Later, a blood examination was positive for anti‐acetylcholine receptor antibodies. Therefore, we made a diagnosis of myasthenia gravis (myasthenic crisis). After her recovery, a repetitive nerve stimulation test showed waning in abductor pollicis brevis, but not in abductor digiti minimi or first dorsal interosseous. We must note that the repetitive nerve stimulation test findings can differ among intrinsic hand muscles in myasthenia gravis. We also caution that the repetitive nerve stimulation test findings of some muscles can be normal even in myasthenic crisis.
Early enteral levetiracetam in diazepam‐resistant convulsive status epilepticus
Authors: Shibata Naoaki , Yonemitsu Takafumi , Ueda Kentaro , Tanaka Masaoh , Nakashima Tsuyoshi , Kawazoe Yu , Yamazoe Shinji , Iwasaki Yasuhiro , Kato Seiya
Published: June 2016

Background

Levetiracetam is used intravenously as an emergent initial and urgent control therapy for acute convulsive status epilepticus. However, the efficacy of early enteral levetiracetam has not been confirmed in cases of benzodiazepine‐resistant convulsive status epilepticus.

Aim

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of levetiracetam administration through a nasogastric tube in acute convulsive status epilepticus resistant to intravenous diazepam.

Methods

In a single‐center prospective study, we assigned convulsive status epilepticus patients previously treated with intravenous diazepam (20 mg maximum) to either the terminated seizure group or continued seizures group. In both groups, the patient received 1500 or 3000 mg of levetiracetam enterally within 30 min after diazepam according to primary seizure cessation, and the daily enteral levetiracetam maintenance dose after admission was set to the same amount as the initial levetiracetam dose. The primary end‐point was the efficacy of enteral levetiracetam within 30 min after diazepam in the diazepam‐resistant group.

Results

In eight of nine diazepam‐resistant patients (88.9%) and 11 of 12 (91.7%) diazepam‐responders, the seizures were controlled within 30 min after diazepam (P = 1.00), and the 3‐day seizure freedom rate was equivalent in the two groups (88.9 vs 83.3%, P = 1.00). Less than 10% of the overall patients had levetiracetam‐related mild side‐effects (no differences between the two groups).

Conclusions

Throughout the 3‐day acute stage, early enteral levetiracetam just after intravenous diazepam is effective for both primary control of ongoing seizures and preventing seizure recurrence, even in diazepam‐resistant convulsive status epilepticus, without serious side‐effects.
Successful early treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin for seronegative myasthenia gravis with onset during pregnancy: A case report
Authors: Horiuchi Kazuhiro , Sato Chika , Odo Takashi , Houzen Hideki
Published: June 2016

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder predominantly affecting women of reproductive age; its course during pregnancy is unpredictable. Here we report a case of a 34‐year‐old woman who developed myasthenia gravis during pregnancy. At 18 weeks of pregnancy, she started experiencing general fatigue and weakness when working. After examination, we diagnosed her with seronegative myasthenia gravis. Treatment included pyridostigmine (60 mg/day), oral prednisolone (5 mg, alternate day), intravenous immunoglobulin (0.4 mg/kg/day, 5 days) and methylprednisolone pulse therapy (500 mg/day, 3 days); her clinical response was good.

An uneventful vaginal delivery took place and the infant showed no signs of muscular weakness. Myasthenia gravis is a high‐risk disease, particularly when associated with pregnancy. We suggest that early treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin is safe and effective for myasthenia gravis with pregnancy.
How to actualize potential: a bioecological approach to talent development
Authors: Ceci Stephen J. , Williams‐Ceci Sterling , Williams Wendy M.
Published: June 2016

Bioecological theory posits three interacting principles to explain developmental outcomes such as fluctuating achievement levels and changing heritability coefficients. Here, we apply the theory to the domain of talent development, by reviewing short‐term and long‐term cognitive interventions. We argue that macro‐level analyses of cultural practices (e.g., matrilineal inheritance and property ownership) and national systems of education are consistent with the bioecological theory; when the findings from these analyses are unpacked, the engines that drive them are so‐called proximal processes. This finding has implications for the design and delivery of instruction and the development of talent. We argue that talent is fostered by the same three bioecological mechanisms that explain the actualization of genetic potential. We conclude by discussing several self‐descriptions and personal narratives by gifted students in which they spontaneously refer to these bioecological mechanisms in their own talent‐development processes. Similar testimonials have been documented by historic talent researchers such as Benjamin Bloom, noting the importance of continual adjustments in feedback.
BMP2 Transfer to Neighboring Cells and Activation of Signaling
Authors: Alborzinia Hamed , Shaikhkarami Marjan , Hortschansky Peter , Wölfl Stefan
Published: June 2016

Morphogen gradients and concentration are critical features during early embryonic development and cellular differentiation. Previously we reported the preparation of biologically active, fluorescently labeled BMP2 and quantitatively analyzed their binding to the cell surface and followed BMP2 endocytosis over time on the level of single endosomes. Here we show that this internalized BMP2 can be transferred to neighboring cells and, moreover, also activates downstream BMP signaling in adjacent cells, indicated by Smad1/5/8 phosphorylation and activation of the downstream target gene id1. Using a 3D matrix to modulate cell–cell contacts in culture we could show that direct cell–cell contact significantly increased BMP2 transfer. Using inhibitors of vesicular transport, transfer was strongly inhibited. Interestingly, cotreatment with the physiological BMP inhibitor Noggin increased BMP2 uptake and transfer, albeit activation of Smad signaling in neighboring cells was completely suppressed. Our findings present a novel and interesting mechanism by which morphogens such as BMP2 can be transferred between cells and how this is modulated by BMP antagonists such as Noggin, and how this influences activation of Smad signaling by BMP2 in neighboring cells.
Impact of informing donors of low ferritin results
Authors: Goldman Mindy , Uzicanin Samra , Scalia Jenna , Scalia Vito , O'Brien Sheila F.
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

Informing donors of their ferritin status is one possible mitigating strategy to reduce iron deficiency in donors.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We evaluated the impact of informing donors of their ferritin status on their donation frequency, understanding of iron needs, and actions to improve iron intake 2 years after their inclusion in a prospective observational cohort study.

RESULTS

Informing donors of low ferritin results decreased return rate in first‐time and repeat donors, and the median number of donations declined from three to two donations/year in returning donors with low ferritin on index donation compared to an increase from 1.5 to 2.5 donations/year in donors with normal ferritin. An electronic questionnaire demonstrated that approximately 60% of low ferritin donors saw their primary medical practitioner, and half of this group started iron. Qualitative interviews revealed suboptimal understanding of iron needs and poor compliance with iron supplementation.

CONCLUSION

Providing donors with results of ferritin testing may reduce return rates and donation frequency in the 2 years after testing. Simply providing donors with ferritin results and an information sheet is often inadequate to improve donors' understanding of iron needs and may not lead to a substantive increase in iron intake over time.
The genus Cyclops (Copepoda, Cyclopoida) in Europe
Authors: Krajíček Martin , Fott Jan , Miracle Maria R. , Ventura Marc , Sommaruga Ruben , Kirschner Philipp , Černý Martin
Published: June 2016

Although copepods of the genus Cyclops are among the most common and dominant plankton taxa of lakes in the northern temperate zone, their taxonomy is still unclear. We analysed an extensive array of Cyclops populations from Europe by means of molecular methods and evaluated morphological characters. Altogether, 68 populations of Cyclops species were sampled, assigned to morphospecies and sequenced for the 12S rRNA gene. Selected populations of each morphospecies were additionally sequenced for three mitochondrial (16S rRNA, cytochrome b, COI) and two nuclear genes (18S rRNA, ITS1) and analysed for micromorphological traits. Our analysis revealed fifteen lineages that can be regarded as separate species. Thirteen of these match currently accepted species, while the remaining two lineages were distinct from the other described species. Thus, their taxonomic status is open to further studies. Besides taxonomy, our study gives new insights into the ecology, distribution and phylogenetic relationships of these species. Finally, a set of morphological traits was selected to facilitate identification.
Complete mitochondrial genomes throw light on budding speciation in three Biston species (Lepidoptera, Geometridae)
Authors: Cheng Rui , Xue Dayong , Galsworthy Anthony , Han Hongxiang
Published: June 2016

Biston panterinaria, Biston thibetaria and Biston perclara are very closely related species in the genus Biston, judged on the basis of both morphological and molecular evidence. The distribution area and altitudes, and host plants of these three species also show both consistency and differences. However, the exact relationship between the three species is unclear. In this study, we used the ‘distance‐based method’, the ‘tree‐based method’ and Bayesian phylogenetics and phylogeography to elucidate the relationship between the three species. Phylogenetic trees based on mitogenomes, COI+CYTB+16S and three nuDNA genes were constructed. The results of the phylogenetic trees revealed that B. thibetaria and B. perclara were derived from B. panterinaria and render the latter paraphyletic. The budding process of speciation is therefore presumed to be the main factor causing a phylogenetic relationship of this pattern. A host shift from broad‐leaved plants living at low altitudes to gymnosperms living at relatively high altitudes provides evidence of budding speciation in these three species. The divergence time suggests that the budding speciation occurred at approximately 1.38 Ma, which is consistent with the Kunlun‐Yellow River Movement. Tectonic movements occurring around the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau may be the driver of the budding speciation.
An Approach to Calculate Leak Channels and Leak Rates Between Metallic Sealing Surfaces
Authors: Zhang Feikai , Liu Jianhua , Ding Xiaoyu , Yang Zhimeng
Published: June 2016

Surface topography of sealing interface is a key factor affecting sealing performance. In industry, it has always been desirable to optimize the performance of static seals by optimizing the surface topography. The evolution of leak channels and the quantitative effects of surface topography on leak rates are expected to be clarified. This paper proposes a novel approach to calculate leak channels and leak rates between sealing surfaces for specific surface topographies, based on three-dimensional (3D) finite-element contact analysis. First, a macromechanical analysis of the entire sealing structure is conducted to calculate the interfacial pressure. Second, the surface topography data are measured and processed. Third, the interfacial pressure is used as the boundary condition applied on the microscale 3D finite-element contact model, which is built based on the specific surface topography. Fourth, the geometrical models of leak channels are extracted from the finite-element contact model, and the leak rates are calculated using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method. The proposed approach was applied to a hollow bolt-sealing structure. Finally, experimental results verified the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed approach, which can provide valuable information for optimizing surface processing techniques, surface topography, and static seal performance.
Teaching a Verification and Validation Course Using Simulations and Experiments With Paper Helicopters
Authors: Park Chanyoung , Choi Joo-Ho , Haftka Raphael T.
Published: June 2016

In teaching a course on verification and validation (V&V) in scientific simulations, it is desirable for students to carry out repeated experiments on devices/systems that they can build and that can be easily repeated. This allows them to be exposed to the inherent aleatory uncertainty associated with building and testing when experiments are used to validate the scientific simulation tools. This paper reports on our experience in using paper helicopters for this purpose in a V&V graduate course. Paper helicopters have been used for various courses, from statistics in high school to graduate optimization courses. They are easily made from paper and paper clips and share the feature of autorotation with real helicopters when they are dropped from altitude. For the V&V course, the helicopters permitted comparison of two models of the drag produced by autorotation that slows their fall. A quadratic dependence of the drag on the speed is generally valid for high Reynolds numbers and a linear model appears for low Reynolds numbers. A gratifying result was that some of the helicopters fitted well the linear model and some fitted better the quadratic model, reflecting the fact that the Reynolds number is in an intermediate range. The paper provides details of how the experiments were conducted and analyzed, which would allow them to be used in similar courses. In addition, actual data are provided, which may be useful for teachers who need to cover the subject in a short time that would not allow the physical experiments. The project also allows a verification component of comparing an analytical solution to one obtained by numerical integration.
SIS epidemiological model for adaptive RT: Forecasting the parotid glands shrinkage during tomotherapy treatment
Authors: Maffei Nicola , Guidi Gabriele , Vecchi Claudio , Ciarmatori Alberto , Gottardi Giovanni , Meduri Bruno , D'Angelo Elisa , Bruni Alessio , Mazzeo Ercole , Pratissoli Silvia , Giacobazzi Patrizia , Baldazzi Giuseppe , Lohr Frank , Costi Tiziana
Published: June 2016

Purpose:

A susceptible‐infected‐susceptible (SIS) epidemic model was applied to radiation therapy (RT) treatments to predict morphological variations in head and neck (H&N) anatomy.

Methods:

360 daily MVCT images of 12 H&N patients treated by tomotherapy were analyzed in this retrospective study. Deformable image registration (DIR) algorithms, mesh grids, and structure recontouring, implemented in the RayStation treatment planning system (TPS), were applied to assess the daily organ warping. The parotid's warping was evaluated using the epidemiological approach considering each vertex as a single subject and its deformed vector field (DVF) as an infection. Dedicated IronPython scripts were developed to export daily coordinates and displacements of the region of interest (ROI) from the TPS. matlab tools were implemented to simulate the SIS modeling. Finally, the fully trained model was applied to a new patient.

Results:

A QUASAR phantom was used to validate the model. The patients’ validation was obtained setting 0.4 cm of vertex displacement as threshold and splitting susceptible (S) and infectious (I) cases. The correlation between the epidemiological model and the parotids’ trend for further optimization of alpha and beta was carried out by Euclidean and dynamic time warping (DTW) distances. The best fit with experimental conditions across all patients (Euclidean distance of 4.09 ± 1.12 and DTW distance of 2.39 ± 0.66) was obtained setting the contact rate at 7.55 ± 0.69 and the recovery rate at 2.45 ± 0.26; birth rate was disregarded in this constant population.

Conclusions:

Combining an epidemiological model with adaptive RT (ART), the authors’ novel approach could support image‐guided radiation therapy (IGRT) to validate daily setup and to forecast anatomical variations. The SIS‐ART model developed could support clinical decisions in order to optimize timing of replanning achieving personalized treatments.
Comment on “Sensitivity of seafloor bathymetry to climate-driven fluctuations in mid-ocean ridge magma supply”
Authors: Huybers Peter , Langmuir Charles , Katz Richard F. , Ferguson David , Proistosescu Cristian , Carbotte Suzanne
Published: June 2016

Olive
et al
. (Reports, 16 October 2015, p. 310) argue that ~10% fluctuations in melt supply do not produce appreciable changes in ocean ridge bathymetry on time scales less than 100,000 years and thus cannot reflect sea level forcing. Spectral analysis of bathymetry in a region they highlight as being fault controlled, however, shows strong evidence for a signal from sea level variation.
Band structure engineering in organic semiconductors
Authors: Schwarze Martin , Tress Wolfgang , Beyer Beatrice , Gao Feng , Scholz Reinhard , Poelking Carl , Ortstein Katrin , Günther Alrun A. , Kasemann Daniel , Andrienko Denis , Leo Karl
Published: June 2016

Organic solar cells tuned by blending

Electrical engineers can finetune the energetics of rigid photovoltaics and transistors by blending different semiconducting materials. However, it's hard to apply this tuning protocol to the flexible class of carbon-based semiconductors. Schwarze
et al.
now show that continuous band energy tuning is indeed possible by varying the blend ratios of certain organic phthalocyanines and their fluorinated or chlorinated derivatives (see the Perspective by Ueno). They demonstrated the effect, which they attribute to quadrupolar interactions, in model solar cells.

Science
, this issue p.
1446
; see also p.
1395
Response to Comment on “Sensitivity of seafloor bathymetry to climate-driven fluctuations in mid-ocean ridge magma supply”
Authors: Olive J.-A. , Behn M. D. , Ito G. , Buck W. R. , Escartín J. , Howell S.
Published: June 2016

Huybers
et al
. present new bathymetric spectra from an intermediate-spreading ridge as evidence for a primary contribution of sea level cycles to the morphology of the seafloor. Although we acknowledge the possibility that sea level–modulated magmatic constructions may be superimposed on a first-order tectonic fabric, we emphasize the difficulty of deciphering these different contributions in the frequency domain alone.
Covalently bonded single-molecule junctions with stable and reversible photoswitched conductivity
Authors: Jia Chuancheng , Migliore Agostino , Xin Na , Huang Shaoyun , Wang Jinying , Yang Qi , Wang Shuopei , Chen Hongliang , Wang Duoming , Feng Boyong , Liu Zhirong , Zhang Guangyu , Qu Da-Hui , Tian He , Ratner Mark A. , Xu H. Q. , Nitzan Abraham , Guo Xuefeng
Published: June 2016

Stable molecular switches

Many single-molecule current switches have been reported, but most show poor stability because of weak contacts to metal electrodes. Jia
et al.
covalently bonded a diarylethene molecule to graphene electrodes and achieved stable photoswitching at room temperature (see the Perspective by Frisbie). The incorporation of short bridging alkyl chains between the molecule and graphene decoupled their pielectron systems and allowed fast conversion of the open and closed ring states.

Science
, this issue p.
1443
; see also p.
1394
Wild things
Being a Beast Adventures Across the Species Divide
Charles Foster
Metropolitan Books, 2016. 251 pp.
GoatMan How I Took a Holiday from Being Human
Thomas Thwaites
Princeton Architectural Press, 2016. 208 pp.
Authors: Ristau Carolyn A.
Published: June 2016

Two authors embrace unusual methods to shed light on the lives of other species