bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practice-level quality improvement interventions in primary care: a review of systematic reviews
Authors: Irwin Ryan , Stokes Tim , Marshall Tom
Published: May 2015

Aim

To present an overview of effective interventions for quality improvement in primary care at the practice level utilising existing systematic reviews.

Background

Quality improvement in primary care involves a range of approaches from the system-level to patient-level improvement. One key setting in which quality improvement needs to occur is at the level of the basic unit of primary care – the individual general practice. Therefore, there is a need for practitioners to have access to an overview of the effectiveness of quality improvement interventions available in this setting.

Methods

Design:A tertiary evidence synthesis was conducted (a review of systematic reviews). A systematic approach was used to identify and summarise published literature relevant to understanding primary-care quality improvement at the practice level. Quality assessment was via the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool for systematic reviews, with data extraction identifying evidence of effect for the examined interventions.Scope:Included reviews had to be relevant to quality improvement at the practice level and relevant to the UK primary-care context. Reviews were excluded if describing system-level interventions.Outcome measures:A range of measures across care structure, process and outcomes were defined and interpreted across the quality improvement interventions.

Findings

Audit and feedback, computerised advice, point-of-care reminders, practice facilitation, educational outreach and processes for patient review and follow-up all demonstrated evidence of a quality improvement effect. Evidence of an improvement effect was higher where baseline performance was low and was particularly demonstrated across process measures and measures related to prescribing. Evidence was not sufficient to suggest that multifaceted approaches were more effective than single interventions.

Conclusion

Evidence exists for a range of quality improvement interventions at the primary-care practice level. More research is required to determine the use and impact of quality improvement interventions using theoretical frameworks and cost-effectiveness analysis.
First record of a rare beaked whale Mesoplodon hotaula in the Philippines
Authors: Lacsamana Joanne Krisha M. , Ventolero Minerva Fatimae H. , Blatchley Darrell , Santos Mudjekeewis D.
Published: May 2015

Beaked whales of the Family Ziphiidae are the least known of all cetacean families. Here, using mitochondrial DNA Control Region and Cytochrome B, and supported by morphological comparisons of skull and teeth, we identified a 4.6 m female beaked whale, stranded in Maco, Compostela Valley, Philippines on December 19 2012, as the Deranayigala's beaked whale,Mesoplodon hotaula. This is the first record ofM. hotaulain the Philippines and only the eighth specimen in the world.
New distribution records of the Vulnerable fossil shark Hemipristis elongata from eastern Indonesia call for improved fisheries management
Authors: Jaiteh Vanessa Flora , Momigliano Paolo
Published: May 2015

Genetically verified catch data from fishers in eastern Indonesia provide new distribution records for the fossil sharkHemipristis elongatain the Halmahera, Seram and Arafura seas. Previously only recorded from the island of Java, this study reports a range extension for this species of >2000 km across the Indonesian archipelago, suggesting that fossil sharks are subjected to fishing pressure over a much larger geographic area than implied by previous species records. We recommend a review of the current species assessment to reflect the reported range extension and inform management of this fishery-targeted shark.
Designing an ultra-wideband electromagnetic waves receiver with new architecture for RF and wireless applications
Authors: Alibakhshi-Kenari Mohammad , Naser-Moghadasi Mohammad , Sadeghzadeh Ramazan Ali , Andújar Aurora , Anguera Jaume
Published: May 2015

This paper demonstrates an electromagnetic waves receiver (EMWR) with new architecture for finding the good performances at the very wide frequency range of 2.8 to 10.8 GHz. The proposed device applies conventional pulse position modulation (PPM) scheme for modulation. The combination of 8th–8th-order derivative of Gaussian pulse is used as impulse received signal. The EMW receiver circuit with core chip dimension of 32 × 10−3 mm2 was modeled in a 90 nm CMOS technology. The output amplitude pulse yielded 200 mV peak-to-peak under a supply voltage of 2.2 V. This circuit consumes 12 pJ/pulse at 0.5 GHz pulse-repeating frequency. The designed device can be employed in the transceiver systems in presence the multipath channel for 2.8 GHz to 10.8 GHz. Results express that the proposed system not only decrease the interference with narrowband (NB) systems, but is also robust against NB interference at the operating frequency of 7 GHz. Regarding to results, the EMWR can be used in radio frequency (RF) and wireless receiver applications.
Design of high efficient 3-level LINC transmitter using a 9-point finite difference method
Authors: Lim Jonggyun , Ku Hyunchul
Published: May 2015

An efficiency of linear amplification with nonlinear components (LINC) system is degraded due to the low efficiency of a power combiner for high peak-to-average power ratio signals such as long-term evolution signal. A multi-level LINC system can be used to improve the performance of the conventional LINC system. In this paper, a novel 9-point finite difference method to determine the optimal threshold values for 3-level LINC system is suggested. Instead of solving the complicated differential equation, the proposed method can extract optimal threshold values efficiently by numerical method. The 3-level LINC system adopting the proposed scheme and dynamic biasing significantly improves the power efficiency and linear performance simultaneously. The proposed system is verified by comparing the performance of the 3-level system with those of the conventional and 2-level LINC systems.
Dominant luminescence is not due to quantum confinement in molecular-sized silicon carbide nanocrystals
Authors: Beke David , Szekrényes Zsolt , Czigány Zsolt , Kamarás Katalin , Gali Ádám
Published: May 2015

The successful size separation of SiC NCs demonstrates the coexistence of surface and band-edge related luminescence of these nanoparticles.
Rugae-like FeP nanocrystal assembly on a carbon cloth: an exceptionally efficient and stable cathode for hydrogen evolution
Authors: Yang Xiulin , Lu Ang-Yu , Zhu Yihan , Min Shixiong , Hedhili Mohamed Nejib , Han Yu , Huang Kuo-Wei , Li Lain-Jong
Published: May 2015

High surface area FeP nanosheets on a carbon cloth were prepared by gas phase phosphidation of electroplated FeOOH, which exhibit exceptionally high catalytic efficiency and stability for hydrogen generation.
Bamboo leaf derived ultrafine Si nanoparticles and Si/C nanocomposites for high-performance Li-ion battery anodes
Authors: Wang Lei , Gao Biao , Peng Changjian , Peng Xiang , Fu Jijiang , Chu Paul K. , Huo Kaifu
Published: May 2015

Ultrafine Si nanoparticles and Si@C/RGO nanocomposites are produced from bamboo leaves and show promising applications in lithium ion batteries.
Synthesis of 3D structured graphene as a high performance catalyst support for methanol electro-oxidation
Authors: Li Yecheng , Zhang Lei , Hu Zhuofeng , Yu Jimmy C.
Published: May 2015

3D structured graphene was fabricated via a solution combustion method and used as an efficient and stable catalyst support of platinum for the electrochemical oxidation of methanol.
Remote stereoselective deconjugation of α,β-unsaturated esters by simple amidation reactions
Authors: Vishe Mahesh , Hrdina Radim , Poblador-Bahamonde Amalia I. , Besnard Céline , Guénée Laure , Bürgi Thomas , Lacour Jérôme
Published: May 2015

The amidation of macrocyclic conjugated esters affords in one-pot single (chiral) β,γ-unsaturated diastereomers via effective remote stereocontrol.
The Effect of Exercise on Respiratory Resistance in Athletes With and Without Paradoxical Vocal Fold Motion Disorder
Authors: Gallena Sally J. K. , Solomon Nancy Pearl , Johnson Arthur T. , Vossoughi Jafar , Tian Wei
Published: May 2015

Purpose

An investigational, portable instrument was used to assess inspiratory (Ri) and expiratory (Re) resistances during resting tidal breathing (RTB), postexercise breathing (PEB), and recovery breathing (RB) in athletes with and without paradoxical vocal fold motion disorder (PVFMD).

Method

Prospective, controlled, repeated measures within-subject and between-groups design. Twenty-four teenage female athletes, 12 with and 12 without PVFMD, breathed into the Airflow Perturbation Device for baseline measures of respiratory resistance and for two successive 1-min trials after treadmill running for up to 12 min. Exercise duration and dyspnea ratings were collected and compared across groups.

Results

Athletes with PVFMD had lower than control Riand Revalues during RTB that significantly increased at PEB and decreased during RB. Control athletes' Redecreased significantly from RTB to PEB but not from PEB to RB, whereas Ridid not change from RTB to PEB but decreased from PEB to RB. Athletes without PVFMD ran longer, providing lower dyspnea ratings.

Conclusion

Immediately following exercise, athletes with PVFMD experienced increased respiratory resistance that affected their exercise performance. The difference in resting respiratory resistances between groups is intriguing and could point to anatomical differences or neural adaptation in teenagers with PVFMD. The Airflow Perturbation Device appears to be a clinically feasible tool that can provide insight into PVFMD and objective data for tracking treatment progress.
Prevention of the Evolution of Workers' Hearing Loss from Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Noisy Environments through a Hearing Conservation Program
Authors: Fonseca Vinicius , Marques Jair , Panegalli Flavio , Gonçalves Claudia , Souza Wesley
Published: May 2015

Introduction Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a serious problem for workers and therefore for businesses. The hearing conservation program (HCP) is a set of coordinated measures to prevent the development or evolution of occupational hearing loss, which involves a continuous and dynamic process of implementation of hearing conservation routines through anticipation, recognition, evaluation, and subsequent control of the occurrence of existing environmental risks or of those that may exist in the workplace and lead to workers' hearing damage.

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the HCP in preventing further hearing loss in workers with audiograms suggestive of NIHL. The audiometric tests and medical records of 28 furniture company workers exposed to noise were reviewed and monitored for 2 years.

Methods This retrospective, cross-sectional study examined five audiometric tests in the medical records (on admission and every semester) of 28 workers in a furniture company (totaling 140 audiometric exams) following the introduction of the HCP.

Results Data analysis showed no differences between the audiometric tests conducted on admission and those performed every semester.

Conclusions The HCP implemented was effective in preventing the worsening of hearing loss in workers already with NIHL when exposed to occupational noise. Therefore, such a measure could be useful for the employment of workers with hearing loss in job sectors that have noise exposure.
Interaction of humic acids with soil minerals: adsorption and surface aggregation induced by Ca2+
Authors: Kloster Nanci , Avena Marcelo
Published: May 2015

Environmental context
Humic acids, important components of natural organic matter in soils, sediments and aquatic media, can interact with the surface of minerals affecting key environmental processes. In the presence of calcium, humic acids can also interact among themselves leading to molecular aggregates. We demonstrate that a solid mineral surface facilitates the formation of humic acid aggregates, and thus surface aggregation occurs under conditions where normal aggregation in solution does not occur.

Abstract
Humic acids (HAs) interact with the surface of mineral particles leading to the formation of clay–humic complexes that affect the transport of nutrients and contaminants in the environment, soil structure, soil erosion and carbon sequestration by soils. The interaction is influenced by the presence of multivalent ions, such as Ca2+, which enhances the uptake of HAs by the particles. This article reports the effects of Ca2+ on the interaction between a HA and a soil clay fraction, both obtained from the same soil sample. The study was performed by using zeta potential measurements, HA adsorption isotherms, Ca2+ adsorption isotherms and microscopy. The results show that at low HA concentrations and low Ca2+ concentrations HA adsorption takes place, but that at high concentrations surface aggregation and precipitation also takes place, a process that is seldom reported or analysed in the literature. HA adsorption isotherms only give the overall HA uptake by the solid but they do not allow differentiation of HA adsorption from surface aggregation. However, HA adsorption v. Ca2+ concentration plots and Ca2+ adsorption isotherms at different HA concentrations can distinguish these two processes quite clearly. In addition, surface aggregation could be undoubtedly observed with optical microscopy. Surface aggregation starts to take place at a 0.7mM Ca2+ concentration, which is lower than the Ca2+ concentration needed to start HA aggregation in solution. This indicates that the surface of soil minerals acts as a nucleation centre for HA aggregation.
Cryptic crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) in Jatropha curcas
Authors: Winter Klaus , Holtum Joseph A. M.
Published: May 2015

Jatropha curcas L. is a drought-tolerant shrub or small tree that is a candidate bioenergy feedstock. It is a member of the family Euphorbiaceae in which both CAM and C4 photosynthesis have evolved. Here, we report that J. curcas exhibits features diagnostic of low-level CAM. Small increases in nocturnal acid content were consistently observed in photosynthetic stems and occasionally in leaves. Acidification was associated with transient contractions in CO2 loss at night rather than with net CO2 dark fixation. Although the CAM-type nocturnal CO2 uptake signal was masked by background respiration, estimates of dark CO2 fixation based upon the 2 : 1 stoichiometric relationship between H+ accumulated and CO2 fixed indicated substantial carbon retention in the stems via the CAM cycle. It is proposed that under conditions of drought, low-level CAM in J. curcas stems serves primarily to conserve carbon rather than water.
Influence of sexual arousability on partner communication mediators of condom use among African American female adolescents
Authors: Swartzendurber Andrea , Murray Sarah H. , Sales Jessica M. , Milhausen Robin R. , Sanders Stephanie A. , Graham Cynthia A. , DiClemente Ralph J. , Wingood Gina M.
Published: May 2015

Background
Ample evidence shows that partner sexual communication is related to condom use. Although communication about safer sex may often occur when sexual arousal is high, no studies have examined arousability, one’s propensity for sexual arousal and partner sexual communication. The purpose of this study was to examine associations between sexual arousability and partner-related mediators of condom use among African American female adolescents, who have disproportionate risk for HIV and sexually transmissible infections (STIs). Methods: The study analysed self-reported baseline data from 701 African American females aged 14–20 years participating in a HIV/STI trial. Linear regression models examined associations between arousability and partner-related mediators of condom use (partner sexual communication self-efficacy, partner sexual communication frequency, sex refusal self-efficacy and condom use self-efficacy), controlling for age, impulsivity and relationship power. Results: Greater arousability was significantly associated with reduced levels of each partner communication outcome assessed (partner sexual communication self-efficacy, partner sexual communication frequency and sex refusal self-efficacy) but was not associated with condom use self-efficacy. Conclusions: Arousal and other positive aspects of sex have largely been ignored by HIV/STI prevention efforts, which primarily focus on individual behaviour. A population-level sexual health approach focusing on sexual wellbeing may reduce stigma, facilitate partner sexual communication and be more effective at reducing HIV/STI rates than traditional approaches.
Nesprin provides elastic properties to muscle nuclei by cooperating with spectraplakin and EB1
Authors: Wang Shuoshuo , Reuveny Adriana , Volk Talila
Published: May 2015

Muscle nuclei are exposed to variable cytoplasmic strain produced by muscle contraction and relaxation, but their morphology remains stable. Still, the mechanism responsible for maintaining myonuclear architecture, and its importance, is currently elusive. Herein, we uncovered a unique myonuclear scaffold in Drosophila melanogaster larval muscles, exhibiting both elastic features contributed by the stretching capacity of MSP300 (nesprin) and rigidity provided by a perinuclear network of microtubules stabilized by Shot (spectraplakin) and EB1. Together, they form a flexible perinuclear shield that protects myonuclei from intrinsic or extrinsic forces. The loss of this scaffold resulted in significantly aberrant nuclear morphology and subsequently reduced levels of essential nuclear factors such as lamin A/C, lamin B, and HP1. Overall, we propose a novel mechanism for maintaining myonuclear morphology and reveal its critical link to correct levels of nuclear factors in differentiated muscle fibers. These findings may shed light on the underlying mechanism of various muscular dystrophies.
Brain barriers: Crosstalk between complex tight junctions and adherens junctions
Authors: Tietz Silvia , Engelhardt Britta
Published: May 2015

Unique intercellular junctional complexes between the central nervous system (CNS) microvascular endothelial cells and the choroid plexus epithelial cells form the endothelial blood–brain barrier (BBB) and the epithelial blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier (BCSFB), respectively. These barriers inhibit paracellular diffusion, thereby protecting the CNS from fluctuations in the blood. Studies of brain barrier integrity during development, normal physiology, and disease have focused on BBB and BCSFB tight junctions but not the corresponding endothelial and epithelial adherens junctions. The crosstalk between adherens junctions and tight junctions in maintaining barrier integrity is an understudied area that may represent a promising target for influencing brain barrier function.
Molecular basis for differential modulation of BK channel voltage-dependent gating by auxiliary γ subunits
Authors: Li Qin , Fan Fei , Kwak Ha Rim , Yan Jiusheng
Published: May 2015

Large conductance Ca2+- and voltage-activated potassium (BK) channels are comprised of pore-forming α subunits and various regulatory auxiliary subunits. The BK channel auxiliary γ (BKγ) subunits are a newly identified class of proteins containing an extracellular leucine-rich repeat domain (LRRD), a single transmembrane (TM) segment, and a short cytoplasmic C-terminal tail (C-tail). Although each of the four BKγ proteins shifts the voltage dependence of BK channel activation in a hyperpolarizing direction, they show markedly different efficacies, mediating shifts over a range of 15–145 mV. Analyses of chimeric BKγ subunits created by swapping individual structural elements, and of BKγ deletion and substitution mutants, revealed that differential modulation of BK gating by the four BKγ subunits depends on a small region consisting of the TM segment and the adjacent intracellular cluster of positively charged amino acids. The γ1 and γ2 TM segments contributed approximately −100 mV, and the γ1 and γ3 C-tails contributed approximately −40 mV, to shifting the voltage dependence of BK channel activation, whereas the γ3 and γ4 TM segments and the γ2 and γ4 C-tails contributed much less. The large extracellular LRRDs were mainly functionally interchangeable, although the γ1 LRRD was slightly less effective at enhancing (or slightly more effective at attenuating) the shift in BK channel voltage-dependent gating toward hyperpolarizing potentials than those of the other BKγ subunits. Analysis of mutated BKγ subunits revealed that juxta-membrane clusters of positively charged amino acids determine the functions of the γ1 and γ3 C-tails. Therefore, the modulatory functions of BKγ subunits are coarse- and fine-tuned, respectively, through variations in their TM segments and in the adjacent intracellular positively charged regions. Our results suggest that BK channel modulation by auxiliary γ subunits depends on intra- and/or juxta-membrane mechanisms.
Message from the ISCB: 2015 ISCB Accomplishment by a Senior Scientist Award: Cyrus Chothia
Authors: Fogg Christiana N. , Kovats Diane E.
Published: May 2015

The International Society for Computational Biology (ISCB; http://www.iscb.org) honors a senior scientist annually for his or her outstanding achievements with the ISCB Accomplishment by a Senior Scientist Award. This award recognizes a leader in the field of computational biology for his or her significant contributions to the community through research, service and education. Cyrus Chothia, an emeritus scientist at the Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology and emeritus fellow of Wolfson College at Cambridge University, England, is the 2015 ISCB Accomplishment by a Senior Scientist Award winner.

Chothia was selected by the Awards Committee, which is chaired by Dr Bonnie Berger of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He will receive his award and deliver a keynote presentation at 2015 Intelligent Systems for Molecular Biology/European Conference on Computational Biology in Dublin, Ireland, in July 2015.

Contact:  dkovats@iscb.org
Effects of reef attributes on fish assemblage similarity between artificial and natural reefs
Authors: Granneman Jennifer E. , Steele Mark A.
Published: May 2015

Artificial reefs are used to enhance populations of marine organisms, but relatively few studies have quantitatively evaluated which attributes of reef structure are most critical in determining whether assemblages of organisms on artificial reefs are similar to those on natural reefs. Using five pairs of artificial and natural reefs that spanned 225 km in the Southern California Bight, we evaluated how well fish assemblages on artificial reefs mimicked those on natural reefs and which attributes of reefs best predicted assemblage structure. Along underwater visual transects, we quantified fish species richness, density, and size structure, as well as substrate structure (rugosity and cover of substrate types), giant kelp density, and invertebrate density. Artificial reefs that were more similar in physical structure to natural reefs (low relief, low rugosity, and composed of small- to medium -sized boulders) supported fish assemblages that were similar to those on natural reefs. Fish species richness was not significantly different between artificial and natural reefs, but density and biomass tended to be higher on average on artificial reefs, body size was slightly smaller, and assemblage structure differed between the two reef types. Generally, artificial reefs extended higher off the seabed, were made of larger boulders, had higher rugosity, harboured more invertebrates, and supported less giant kelp. At both the within-reef (transect) and whole-reef scales, fish density and biomass were positively correlated with complex substrate structure, positively correlated with invertebrate density, and negatively correlated with giant kelp abundance, which was sparse or absent on most artificial reefs. Our results indicate that artificial reefs can support fish assemblages that are similar to those found on natural reefs if they are constructed to match the physical characteristics of natural reefs, or they can be made to exceed natural reefs in some regards at the expense of other biological attributes.
The Dynamic Model of Choice for Public Policy Reconsidered: A Formal Analysis With an Application to US Budget Data
Authors: Jensen Jens Ledet , Mortensen Peter B. , Serritzlew Søren
Published: May 2015

It has been shown empirically across countries and political systems, and for different levels of government, that the distribution of budget changes follows a non-Gaussian distribution, a power function. This implies that budgets are very stable, yet occasionally are punctuated by very large changes. To explain this strong empirical generalization, Jones and Baumgartner (2005a) developed the Dynamic Model of Choice for Public Policy, which today is the dominant explanation of stability and change in public budgets. Based on formal analysis, this article investigates the implications and scope conditions of this model. Furthermore, using US budget data, the article reveals aspects of the model that do not closely fit the empirical pattern. The article concludes with an examination of three model revisions that may improve the fit between the model and the empirical distributions of budget decisions.
RAD sequencing enables unprecedented phylogenetic resolution and objective species delimitation in recalcitrant divergent taxa
Authors: Herrera Santiago , Shank Timothy M.
Published: May 2015

Species delimitation is problematic in many taxa due to the difficulty of evaluating predictions from species delimitation hypotheses, which chiefly relay on subjective interpretations of morphological observations and/or DNA sequence data. This problem is exacerbated in recalcitrant taxa for which genetic resources are scarce and inadequate to resolve questions regarding evolutionary relationships and uniqueness. In this case study we demonstrate the empirical utility of restriction site associated DNA sequencing (RAD-seq) by unambiguously resolving phylogenetic relationships among recalcitrant octocoral taxa with divergences greater than 80 million years. We objectively infer robust species boundaries in the genusParagorgia, which contains some of the most important ecosystem engineers in the deep-sea, by testing alternative taxonomy-guided or unguided species delimitation hypotheses using the Bayes factors delimitation method (BFD*) with genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism data. We present conclusive evidence rejecting the current morphological species delimitation model for the genusParagorgiaand indicating the presence of cryptic species boundaries associated with environmental variables. We argue that the suitability limits of RAD-seq for phylogenetic inferences in divergent taxa cannot be assessed in terms of absolute time, but depend on taxon-specific factors such as mutation rate, generation time and effective population size. We show that classic morphological taxonomy can greatly benefit from integrative approaches that provide objective tests to species delimitation hypothesis. Our results pave the way for addressing further questions in biogeography, species ranges, community ecology, population dynamics, conservation, and evolution in octocorals and other marine taxa.
Mining the archives: a cross-platform analysis of gene expression profiles in archival formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue
Authors: Webster Anna Francina , Zumbo Paul , Fostel Jennifer , Gandara Jorge , Hester Susan D , Recio Leslie , Williams Andrew , Wood Chales , Yauk Carole , Mason Christopher E
Published: May 2015

Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue samples represent a potentially invaluable resource for transcriptomic-based research into the molecular basis of disease. However, use of FFPE samples in gene expression studies has been limited by technical challenges resulting from degradation of nucleic acids. Here we evaluated gene expression profiles derived from fresh-frozen (FRO) and FFPE mouse liver tissues using two DNA microarray protocols and two whole transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) library preparation methodologies. The ribo-depletion protocol outperformed the other three methods by having the highest correlations of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and best overlap of pathways between FRO and FFPE groups. We next tested the effect of sample time in formalin (18 hours or 3 weeks) on gene expression profiles. Hierarchical clustering of the datasets indicated that test article treatment, and not preservation method, was the main driver of gene expression profiles. Meta- and pathway analyses indicated that biological responses were generally consistent for 18-hour and 3-week FFPE samples compared to FRO samples. However, clear erosion of signal intensity with time in formalin was evident, and DEG numbers differed by platform and preservation method. Lastly, we investigated the effect of age in FFPE block on genomic profiles. RNA-seq analysis of 8-, 19-, and 26-year-old control blocks using the ribo-depletion protocol resulted in comparable quality metrics, including expected distributions of mapped reads to exonic, UTR, intronic, and ribosomal fractions of the transcriptome. Overall, our results suggest that FFPE samples are appropriate for use in genomic studies in which frozen samples are not available, and that ribo-depletion RNA-seq is the preferred method for this type of analysis in archival and long-aged FFPE samples.
Pressure-induced structural phase transformation in cobalt(II) dicyanamide
Authors: Yakovenko Andrey A. , Chapman Karena W. , Halder Gregory J.
Published: May 2015

In situsynchrotron powder diffraction has been used to probe the pressure-dependent structural properties of the magnetic molecular framework material Co(dca)2[dca = dicyanamide or N(CN)2−]. An orthorhombic (Pmnn) to monoclinic (P21/n) transformation to a high-pressure phase, namely γ-Co(dca)2, occurs at 1.1 GPa. Structural determination of γ-Co(dca)2shows that the rutile-like topology of the pristine material is retained at high pressures, with the lower symmetry allowing a progression of volume-reducing structural distortions. γ-Co(dca)2was stable at the maximum pressure measured of 4.2 GPa. Both phases were soft, with bulk moduli (B0) for α-Co(dca)2and γ-Co(dca)2of 13.15 (18) and 9.0 (6) GPa, respectively. Modest uniaxial negative linear compressibility (K) of the order of −4 TPa−1was observed over the entire measured pressure range.
Diagnostic validation of selected serological tests for detecting scrub typhus
Authors: Koraluru Munegowda , Bairy Indira , Varma Muralidhar , Vidyasagar Sudha
Published: May 2015

Clinical diagnosis of scrub typhus is often difficult because the symptoms are very similar to those of other febrile illness such as dengue, leptospirosis, malaria and other viral hemorrhagic fevers. Though better diagnostic tests are available for rickettsial diseases and scrub typhus elsewhere, the Weil–Felix test is still commonly used in India, mainly because microimmunofluorescence assays (M‐IFA) were not available in India till recently and relevant staff had insufficient training. The present study was performed to investigate the performance of M‐IFA, IgM ELISA, and Weil–Felix test on 546 non‐repeated serum samples from subjects suspected of having scrub typhus. One hundred and forty‐three of these 546 samples were positive by M‐IFA; these cases were also confirmed clinically to have scrub typhus based on their dramatic responses to doxycycline therapy. IgM ELISA was positive in 122 of the 143 M‐IFA positive cases and the Weil–Felix test in 96. Though the Weil–Felix test is a heterophile agglutination test, it was found in this study to have good specificity but far too little sensitivity to use as a routine diagnostic test. IgM ELISA can be a good substitute for M‐IFA. Incorporation of multiple prototype antigens on M‐IFA slides is likely one of the reasons for its superior performance. As newer and better diagnostic assays become available for scrub typhus diagnosis in developed countries, it will be imperative to also use such tests in other endemic countries to prevent over‐ or under‐diagnosis of scrub typhus.
The sign of cascading predator effects varies with prey traits in a detrital system
Authors: Wu Xinwei , Griffin John N. , Xi Xinqiang , Sun Shucun
Published: May 2015

Theory and experiments show that the nature of ‘green’ trophic cascades, between predators, herbivores and plants, varies with several key species traits: predator hunting mode and predator and prey habitat domains. Meanwhile, ‘brown’ cascades between predators, environment‐modifying detritivores and plants have been largely overlooked and the roles of species traits, particularly prey traits, in determining the nature of these cascades remains unclear.

We hypothesize that, in predator–detritivore–plant interaction chains, the burrowing ability of plant‐facilitating detritivores determines their response to predators and thus the sign of indirect effect transmitted. In the dung‐decomposer food web of an alpine meadow, we predicted that in the presence of above‐ground predacious beetles: (i) non‐burrowing detritivores will suffer mortality due to predation and transmitnegativeindirect effects to plants, whereas (ii) burrowing detritivores will escape predation by retreating deeper into the soil, transmittingpositiveindirect effects to plants.

In support of predictions, experiments showed that a single species of predacious beetle (i) reduced the density of the non‐burrowing species and indirectly reduced dung loss rate, soil nutrient concentrations and plant biomass, but (ii) drove the burrowing species deeper, indirectly improved soil conditions and increased plant biomass.

These results show that the burrowing ability of a detritivore can determine whether it transmits a negative indirect effect mediated by a reduction in its density, or a positive indirect effect mediated by its behavioural response to predation risk.

We call for further tests of our detritivore‐trait hypothesis in different regions and ecosystems to further develop a general trait‐based framework for trophic cascades in detrital food webs. We further advance the general hypothesis that the locomotion traits of prey species (e.g. burrowing/flying ability) may help explain their behavioural response to predation risk and the nature of indirect effect they transmit from predators to plants.
Guaranteed Rotation in Office: A ‘New’ Model Of Democracy
Authors: Goodin Robert E. , Lepora Chiara
Published: May 2015

Although once a classic democratic ideal, rotation in office is nowadays seen more as a natural consequence of competitive elections than a goal in its own right. But this article proposes that a strict rota, with each group taking a turn in office, might be preferable to ordinary electoral democracy in certain sorts of countries: nascent democracies, divided societies with persistent minorities and failed one‐party democracies. Ways are suggested of combining intraparty democracy with interparty rotation.
Prospective Randomized Trial of Insulin Glargine in Acute Management of Diabetic Ketoacidosis in the Emergency Department: A Pilot Study
Authors: Doshi Pratik , Potter Andrew J. , De Los Santos Daniel , Banuelos Rosa , Darger Bryan F. , Chathampally Yashwant
Published: May 2015

Objectives

The objective was to determine the efficacy of coadministration of subcutaneous (SQ) insulin glargine in combination with intravenous (IV) insulin for treating diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

Methods

This was a prospective, randomized, controlled trial comparing coadministration of insulin glargine and IV insulin (experimental) with IV insulin (standard care control). The setting was emergency departments (EDs) in two hospitals in Houston, Texas. Patients presenting with blood sugar ≥ 200 mg/dL, pH ≤ 7.3, bicarbonate (HCO3) ≤ 18 mg/dL, ketonemia or ketonuria, and anion gap ≥ 16 between November 2012 and April 2013 were enrolled. All patients received IV insulin. Additionally, the experimental group was given SQ insulin glargine within 2 hours of diagnosis. Upon closure of anion gap, patients in the control group were subsequently transitioned to long‐acting insulin. In the study group, IV insulin was discontinued and long‐acting SQ insulin was reinstituted 24 hours after initial introduction. The primary outcome of time to closure of anion gap (TCAG) was compared between groups using a general linear model (GLM), adjusting for initial anion gap, etiology, and presence of comorbidities. Similarly, the secondary outcome hospital length of stay (LOS) was adjusted for age, etiology, and hospital site in the GLM. Rate of hypoglycemia and intensive care unit (ICU) admission was compared using Fisher's exact test while ICU LOS was compared using Wilcoxon's two‐sample test.

Results

A total of 40 patients were enrolled in this pilot trial. The estimated mean TCAG was 10.2 hours (SE ± 6.8 hours) in the experimental group and 11.6 hours (SE ± 6.4 hours) in the control group (p = 0.63). The estimated mean hospital LOS was 3.9 days (SE ± 3.4 days) in the experimental group and 4.8 days (SE ± 3.6 days) in the control group (p = 0.66). Incidents of hypoglycemia, rates of ICU admission, and ICU LOS were similar between the groups.

Conclusions

Coadministration of glargine in combination with an insulin infusion in the acute management of DKA is feasible. Further study is needed to determine the true efficacy in terms of TCAG and hospital LOS.
The diversity of expertise on corporate boards in Australia
Authors: Gray Stephen , Nowland John
Published: May 2015

Expertise diversity is expected to enhance the monitoring and advising functions of boards of directors. Yet, little is known about the expertise that actually exists on corporate boards. In this study, we examine the diversity of professional expertise on corporate boards in Australia and implications for shareholder value. We categorise directors by 11 types of professional expertise and find the most common types of expertise are business executives, accountants, bankers, scientists, lawyers and engineers. We find that expertise diversity is primarily related to board size, industry and location. Our analysis also suggests that shareholders benefit when boards diversify their expertise within a subset of specialist business expertise (lawyers, accountants, consultants, bankers and outside CEOs). Further diversity beyond this subset of expertise is associated with lower firm value and performance.
‘White matter connectivity and Internet gaming disorder’ and broader considerations in the field
Authors: Tam Philip G. E.
Published: May 2015

This invited commentary on the paper ‘White Matter Connectivity and Internet gaming disorder’ by Jeong et al. (unpublished) looks at the implications and importance of the MRI findings in the present study—one of the largest to date—and also considers the broader developments of neuroimaging within the complex, emerging field of ‘Internet psychology’ and problematic Internet usage.
Overactivation of Complement Alternative Pathway in Postpartum Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Patients with Renal Involvement
Authors: Song Di , Yu Xiao‐juan , Wang Feng‐mei , Xu Bing‐ning , He Ying‐dong , Chen Qian , Wang Su‐xia , Yu Feng , Song Wen‐chao , Zhao Ming‐hui
Published: May 2015

Problem

Postpartum atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a life‐threatening syndrome with unclear pathogenesis. The current study aimed to investigate the clinical and pathological features, complement activation status, and the genetic variations in a Chinese cohort of patients with renal biopsy‐proven postpartum aHUS.

Method of study

Five patients with postpartum aHUS were recruited. Renal biopsy specimens were examined and scored. Plasma levels of complements were detected, and coding sequences of complement regulators were screened. Anti‐CFH/CFI autoantibodies were further detected.

Results

Patients with postpartum aHUS patients presented with severe clinical manifestations and renal involvement. The renal biopsies of the five patients showed typical features of thrombotic microangiopathies. The levels of the following complement components, C4d, Bb, C3a, C5a, and SC5b‐9, were significantly elevated in patients with postpartum aHUS compared with normal non‐pregnant controls. The plasma levels of CFH and CFI significantly decreased in patients with postpartum aHUS compared with normal pregnant women. Three CFH single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified in the five patients. Two patients presented with CFH autoantibodies.

Conclusion

Postpartum aHUS is a clinical syndrome with severe renal damage. Genetic deficiencies and autoantibodies of CFH may lead to alternative pathway overactivation and participated in the pathogenesis of postpartum aHUS.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of a low‐dose contraceptive levonorgestrel intrauterine system in Sweden
Authors: Henry Nathaniel , Hawes Charlie , Lowin Julia , Lekander Ingrid , Filonenko Anna , Kallner Helena K.
Published: May 2015

Objective

To evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of a novel intrauterine system, levonorgestrel intrauterine system 13.5 mg vs. oral contraception, in women at risk of unintended pregnancy.

Design

Cost‐effectiveness model using efficacy and discontinuation data from published articles.

Setting

Societal perspective including direct and indirect costs.

Population

Women at risk of unintended pregnancy using reversible contraception.

Methods

An economic analysis was conducted by modeling the different health states of women using contraception over a 3‐year period. Typical use efficacy rates from published articles were used to determine unintended pregnancy events. Discontinuation rates were used to account for method switching.

Main outcome measures

Cost‐effectiveness was evaluated in terms of the incremental cost per unintended pregnancy avoided. In addition, the incremental cost per quality‐adjusted life‐year was calculated.

Results

Levonorgestrel intrauterine system 13.5 mg generated costs savings of €311 000 in a cohort of 1000 women aged 15–44 years. In addition, there were fewer unintended pregnancies (55 vs. 294) compared with women using oral contraception.

Conclusion

Levonorgestrel intrauterine system 13.5 mg is a cost‐effective method when compared with oral contraception. A shift in contraceptive use from oral contraception to long‐acting reversible contraception methods could result in fewer unintended pregnancies, quality‐adjusted life‐year gains, as well as cost savings.
Influenza virus infection in pregnancy: a review
Authors: Meijer Wouter J. , van Noortwijk Aleid G.A. , Bruinse Hein W. , Wensing Annemarie M.J.
Published: May 2015

Background

Influenza virus infection is very common and a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in specific populations like pregnant women. Following the 2009 pandemic, several reports on the effects of influenza virus infection on maternal health and pregnancy outcome have been published. Also the safety and efficacy of antiviral treatment and vaccination of pregnant women have been studied. In this review, we have analyzed and summarized these data.

Objective

To provide information on the influence of influenza virus infection during pregnancy on maternal health and pregnancy outcome and on the effect of treatment and vaccination.

Data sources

We have searched Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Library. We used influenza, influenz*, pregnancy and pregnan* as search terms.

Study selection

In total, 294 reports were reviewed and judged according to the STROBE guidelines or CONSORT statement. In all, 100 studies, published between 1961 and 2015, were included.

Results

Compared to the general population, pregnant women are more often hospitalized and admitted to an intensive care unit due to influenza virus infection. For hospitalized patients, increased rates of preterm birth and fetal/neonatal death are reported. Early treatment with oseltamivir is associated with a reduced risk of severe disease. Vaccination of pregnant women is safe and reduces maternal and neonatal morbidity.

Conclusions

There is level 2b evidence that maternal health and pregnancy outcome can be severely affected by influenza virus infection. Antiviral treatment may diminish these effects and vaccination protects pregnant women and neonates from infection (level of evidence 2b and 1b, respectively).
Ophthalmological findings in relation to auxological data in moderate‐to‐late preterm preschool children
Authors: Raffa Lina , Aring Eva , Dahlgren Jovanna , Karlsson Ann‐Katrine , Andersson Grönlund Marita
Published: May 2015

Purpose

To evaluate ophthalmological findings in preschool children born moderate‐to‐ late preterm (MLP) and relate the findings to auxological data at birth and at 5.5 years of age.

Methods

Seventy‐eight MLP children [gestational age (GA) 32–36 weeks; 34 girls; mean age 5.7 years] were investigated. Gestational age, weight, length and head circumference at birth and at the time of assessment were registered. Visual acuity (VA), refraction, orthoptic evaluation, slit‐lamp examination and ophthalmoscopy were conducted, and a history of visuoperceptual problems was recorded. The data were compared with age‐ and sex‐matched controls born full term (n = 35).

Results

Ophthalmological abnormalities were noted in 82% of MLP children and 47% of controls (p = 0.0004). There was a significant difference with regard to impaired motility (p = 0.03), heterophoria at distance (p = 0.006) and refraction expressed as spherical equivalent dioptre (p = 0.01). Amongst auxological data at birth, birthweight (BW) was the strongest predictor to ophthalmological abnormalities (p = 0.0003). In a stepwise logistic regression, GA was the strongest predictor of VA outcome at time of assessment (p = 0.0036). Moderate‐to‐late preterm birth showed a 2.4‐fold increased risk of refractive errors compared with full‐term children (RR 2.39: 95% CI 1.10–5.20; p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Based on our findings, MLP birth may be associated with increased ocular morbidity compared with their full‐term counterparts. Auxological data at birth, especially BW, seems to be an important factor when conducting an ophthalmological diagnosis in preschool MLP children, and an increased VA was correlated to a higher GA.
1 Past is Present: The Production and Consumption of Archaeological Legacies in Mexico
Authors: Clark Dylan J. , Anderson David S.
Published: May 2015

The material expressions of the powerful symbols and cultural traditions of ancient Mesoamerican civilizations have long played vital roles in constructing social and political discourses, collective identities, and worldviews in the Mexican present. In this chapter, we provide the theoretical background for this volume, highlighting the early history of archaeological representation and patrimony in Mexico prior to the 20th century and situating these studies within the current phase of anthropological research in the related areas of public archaeology, heritage studies, and community (engaged) archaeology.
5 Continuity and Transformation in Central Mexico: “The Legend of Tepozteco” and the People of Tepoztlán
Authors: Vargas‐Betancourt Margarita
Published: May 2015

This chapter takes an ethnohistorical approach to the study of cultural continuity in the town of Tepoztlán, Morelos. During the course of history, the people of Tepoztlán have maintained social cohesion by reenacting a historical legend, the “Legend of Tepozteco,” which brings together pre‐Hispanic and colonial mythologies with contemporary performance art at the base of an ancient temple. This social cohesion produced through performance and place has allowed the community to resist economic projects that have threatened the ecological, cultural, and social identity of their town, such as a movement against the construction of a golf course in 1995.