bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes following Kidney transplantation in IgA nephropathy: a UNOS/OPTN analysis
Authors: Kadiyala Aditya , Mathew Anna T. , Sachdeva Mala , Sison Cristina P. , Shah Hitesh H. , Fishbane Steven , Jhaveri Kenar D.
Published: July 2015

This study updates assessment of post‐transplant outcomes in IgAN patients in the modern era of immunosuppression. Using UNOS/OPTN data, patients ≥18 yr of age with first kidney transplant (1/1/1999 to 12/31/2008) were analyzed. Multivariable Cox regression models and propensity score‐based matching techniques were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for death‐censored allograft survival (DCGS) and patient survival in IgAN compared to non‐IgAN. Results of multivariable regression were stratified by donor type (living vs. deceased). A total of 107, 747 recipients were included (4589 with IgAN and 103 158 with non‐IgAN). Adjusted HR for DCGS showed no significant difference between IgAN and non‐IgAN. IgAN had higher patient survival compared to non‐IgAN (HR 0.54, 95% CI 0.47–0.62, p < 0.0001 for deceased donors; HR 0.42, 95% CI 0.33–0.54, p < 0.0001 for living donors). Propensity score‐matched analysis was similar, with no significant difference in DCGS between matched groups and higher patient survival in IgAN patients compared to non‐IgAN group (HR 0.54, 95% CI 0.47, 0.63; p‐value <0.0001). IgAN patients with first kidney transplant have superior patient survival and similar graft survival compared to non‐IgAN recipients. Results can be used in prognostication and informed decision‐making about kidney transplantation in patients with IgAN.
A Note on Indifference Pricing with Dynamic Quasiconcave Preferences
Authors: Giammarino Flavia
Published: July 2015

In this paper we study the problem of indifference pricing in a discrete‐time setting where the decision‐maker's preferences are represented by a general monotone increasing and quasiconcave dynamic preference functional. We show that the indifference price is a dynamic convex risk measure and we introduce as an example the dynamic robust entropic risk measure.
A Model for Public Debt Sustainability and Sovereign Credit Risk in the Eurozone
Authors: Esposito Marcello
Published: July 2015

There have been many attempts at solving the problem of determining the ‘fundamental value’ of the credit spread of a government bond. This is particularly important in the case of Eurozone, where the ECB intervention on the government bonds' market is allowed only if the ‘spread’ paid by the sovereign issuer is higher than the one justified by ‘fundamentals’. The complication in determining what is a fair level of the spread stems from the fact that public debt sustainability depends on many factors, amongst them the level of interest rates paid. This sort of circularity between debt sustainability and interest rate paid by the sovereign issuer is the major source of complexity. This paper highlights a possible solution inside a simplified framework resembling the peculiar institutional settings of the Eurozone: no possibility of money‐financing, the famous Maastricht Treaty 3–60% parameters, availability of financial assistance programme subordinated to the acceptance of consolidation plans for public finances. We obtain the possibility of multiple equilibria for the credit spread, whose stability can be analysed through a phase diagram. The dynamics of the model is derived from probabilistic assumptions about the public debt process. It does not depend on ‘loss’ functions devised to model the strategic relationship between debtors and creditors, as in previous literature on public debt sustainability. Dynamic properties of equilibria can be used to gain insight on what does it mean ‘good’ or ‘bad’ equilibrium from the perspective of the ECB.
Multicentre survey to explore current survival of patients with acute myeloid leukaemia who failed induction chemotherapy
Authors: Lazzarotto Davide , Candoni Anna , Nadali Gianpaolo , Pavan Laura , Lessi Federica , Mosna Federico , Simeone Erica , Ventura Giovanna , Gherlinzoni Filippo , Semenzato Gianpietro , Pizzolo Giovanni , Fanin Renato
Published: July 2015

Background

Acute myeloid leukaemia not responsive to first induction chemotherapy (PIF‐AML) still remains a challenge, and there are only few recent epidemiological data regarding the outcome of these patients. In this multicentre survey, we evaluate the prognosis and outcome of patients with PIF‐AML, who were diagnosed and treated in the last 5 yrs in four Italian institutions.

Results

One hundred PIF‐AML were recorded, 57 males and 43 females, with a median age of 63 yrs (19–79), 42% were younger than 60 yrs; 42% had a secondary AML and 40% had an adverse karyotype. According to cytogenetic/molecular risk stratification at diagnosis, 33% of patients were classified as favourable/intermediate‐1 risk and 56% as intermediate‐2/adverse risk. After a median follow‐up of 11 months (1–49), 77% of patients died, while 23% were alive (with 12/23 in cCR). Thirty‐six patients underwent allogeneic SCT, and of these, 11 of 36 (31%) were alive at last follow‐up. The 12‐ and 24‐month OS probability of the whole population was 45% and 21%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, the probability of OS of the whole population was significantly improved by Allo‐SCT procedure (12‐month OS probability 60% vs. 35%; P < 0.0001) and was better in patients with favourable/intermediate‐1 risk at diagnosis (12‐month OS probability 58% vs. 40%; P = 0.028). In transplanted cases, a pretransplant responsive disease was the only significant factor to predict a favourable outcome after Allo‐SCT (P = 0.006).

Conclusion

Treatment options of PIF‐AML still are limited and the prognosis, even recently, remains extremely poor. This survey shows that PIF‐AML is still rarely cured without Allo‐SCT and confirms the importance of initiating an urgent unrelated donor search in cases without a matched sibling donor. Moreover, the outcome of Allo‐SCT is better in patients who achieve a good AML debulking before transplant. To reach this goal, new predictive scores and new protocols of salvage therapy (with target drugs or combinations) need to be explored urgently in PIF‐AML.
Broad Selectivity for Courtship Song in the Cricket Gryllus bimaculatus
Authors: Shestakov Lev S. , Vedenina Varvara Yu.
Published: July 2015

Various characteristics of a long‐distance acoustic signal have been shown to vary to different degrees. It has been suggested that female preferences based on stable song parameters are stabilising or weakly directional, and preferences based on variable parameters are strongly directional. We tested this hypothesis based on a short‐distance signal (courtship song) produced by the field cricket, Gryllus bimaculatus. We studied the degree of variability of different courtship song parameters and the behavioural importance of several parameters using synthesised song models in playback experiments. We found that most of the courtship song elements of G. bimaculatus were quite variable (coefficient of variation, CV, in the range of 20–53%). The most variable parameter of the courtship song was the relative amplitude of two elements: high‐amplitude ticks and low‐amplitude pulses. Because songs containing only ticks (of rare occurrence) appeared to be more effective than songs with both ticks and pulses (of frequent occurrence), we consider female preferences to be directional. Alteration of less variable traits, such as the carrier frequency and duration of ticks (CV = 20–25%), had a different effect on female responsiveness. The synthesised songs with different carrier frequencies of ticks were as attractive to females as the positive control (courtship of muted males accompanied by playback of the recorded song). Altering the duration of ticks had a crucial effect on the female response rate, decreasing female responsiveness to the level observed in the negative control (courtship of muted males). Thus, we did not find a strong relationship between the variability of individual song parameters and their potential importance in song recognition and the evaluation of male quality. The partial inconsistency of our results with the data of other authors may be due to different patterns of past and current selection on long‐distance and short‐distance acoustic signals.
miR‐137 inhibits proliferation of melanoma cells by targeting PAK2
Authors: Hao Shuai , Luo Chonglin , Abukiwan Alia , Wang Guangxia , He Jinjun , Huang Lingyun , Weber Claudia E. M. , Lv Na , Xiao Xueyuan , Eichmüller Stefan B. , He Dacheng
Published: July 2015

MicroRNAs (miRNA) are key players in a variety of cancers including malignant melanoma. miR‐137 has been reported to be a tumor suppressor in melanoma and several targets have been identified for this miRNA. We previously developed a novel proteomics technology, 35S in vivo/vitro labelling analysis for dynamic proteomics (SiLAD). Because of its high sensitivity in analysing protein expression rates, SiLAD has the potential to unravel miRNA effects on mRNAs coding for proteins with long half‐lives or high abundance. Using SiLAD, we discovered that miR‐137 significantly downregulated the expression rate of p21‐activated kinase 2 (PAK2) in melanoma cells. Bioinformatics analysis predicted PAK2 as a direct target of miR‐137, which was confirmed by luciferase reporter assay and Western blot analysis. We found that overexpression of miR‐137 inhibited the proliferation of melanoma cells, which could be phenocopied by knockdown of PAK2 using siRNAs. Furthermore, overexpression of PAK2 restored miR‐137‐mediated suppression of cell proliferation. These findings indicate that miR‐137 could inhibit proliferation through targeting PAK2 in melanoma cells.
Reference Point Theory and Pursuit of Deals
Authors: Chira Inga , Madura Jeff
Published: July 2015

Target and bidder reference points have separate and joint effects on merger deals. A firm whose stock price is more distant from its 52‐week high reference point is less likely to attract bids but has a greater likelihood of being acquired by its own managers (vs unaffiliated bidders). Firm propensity to submit a bid increases if its prevailing stock price is closer to its 52‐week high. When both parties’ reference points are close to their current stock prices, they are more willing to complete a deal. Hostile deals result when the bidder's stock price is closer to its reference point.
New Evidence on Sources of Leverage Effects in Individual Stocks
Authors: Smith Geoffrey Peter
Published: July 2015

I test Black's leverage effect hypothesis on a panel of U.S. stocks from 1997 to 2012. I find that negative stock return innovations increase the future volatility of equity returns by about 36% more than positive ones. There is a strong and positive relation between variation in the size of these leverage effects and variation in the firm's use of debt. I uncover this relation by applying the Fama/French/Carhart 4‐factor asset pricing model in the exponential generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity mean equation and by using panel data to control for firm‐ and time‐invariant unobservables via first differences and two‐way fixed effects.
Investor Protection and the Role of Firm‐Level Financial Transparency in Attracting Foreign Investment
Authors: Hansen Bowe , Miletkov Mihail K. , Wintoki M. Babajide
Published: July 2015

We ask if companies can attract foreign equity capital by improving the transparency of their financial statements. Using a large panel of firms across 51 countries outside the United States, we show that the answer is yes, but only in countries with relatively high levels of investor protection. In countries with poor investor protection, unilaterally increasing firm‐level transparency has no effect on foreign ownership. Furthermore, our results indicate that in countries with higher levels of investor protection, the positive association between transparency and foreign ownership is stronger following a country's adoption of the International Financial Reporting Standards.
Effect of environmental variability on body condition and recruitment success of Atlantic Mackerel (Scomber scombrus L.) in the Gulf of St. Lawrence
Authors: Plourde Stéphane , Grégoire François , Lehoux Caroline , Galbraith Peter S. , Castonguay Martin , Ringuette Marc
Published: July 2015

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of environmental variability on the dynamics of the Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus L.) stock in the Gulf of St. Lawrence (GSL). We first described the dominant modes of physical and biological (zooplankton) variability using Principal Components Analyses of 40 variables. Two principal modes of variability were identified, a long‐term mode (15–20 yr) associated with a warming of the GSL and a second mode describing alternating cold and warm periods at a higher frequency (5–10 yr). A strong link between physical forcing and the dynamics of zooplankton species known to be important for mackerel was shown. Second, a set of Generalized Additive Models (GAM) was developed to explore how these environmental variations could influence mackerel condition (Fulton's K) and recruitment success (Rs). Optimal GAMs including variations in abundance, species composition and phenology of key copepods improved model performance by 40–50% relative to those considering only physical environmental conditions. The results are consistent with the match–mismatch hypothesis and illustrate the key role of zooplankton dynamics in modulating variations in mackerel K and Rs. Finally, this study showed that large variations in Rs could be caused by varying environmental conditions independently of the influence of stock biomass. Our results strongly indicate that the effect of environmental variability should be considered in the implementation of an ecosystem‐based approach to Atlantic mackerel stock management.
Connectivity of the bay scallop (Argopecten irradians) in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, U.S.A.
Authors: Liu Chang , Cowles Geoffrey W. , Churchill James H. , Stokesbury Kevin D. E.
Published: July 2015

The harvest of bay scallops (Argopecten irradians) from Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, U.S.A. undergoes large interannual fluctuations, varying by more than an order of magnitude in successive years. To investigate the extent to which these fluctuations may be due to yearly variations in the transport of scallop larvae from spawning areas to suitable juvenile habitat (settlement zones), a high‐resolution hydrodynamic model was used to drive an individual‐based model of scallop larval transport. Model results revealed that scallop spawning in Buzzards Bay occurs during a time when nearshore bay currents were principally directed up‐bay in response to a persistent southwesterly sea breeze. This nearshore flow results in the substantial transport of larvae from lower‐bay spawning areas to settlement zones further up‐bay. Averaged over the entire bay, the spawning‐to‐settlement zone connectivity exhibits little interannual variation. However, connectivities between individual spawning and settlement zones vary by up to an order of magnitude. The model results identified spawning areas that have the greatest probability of transporting larvae to juvenile habitat. Because managers may aim to increase scallop populations either locally or broadly, the high‐connectivity spawning areas were divided into: (i) high larval retention and relatively little larval transport to adjoining settlement areas, (ii) both significant larval retention and transport to more distant settlement areas, and (iii) little larval retention but significant transport to distant settlement areas.
Indigenous arsenic(V)‐reducing microbial communities in redox‐fluctuating near‐surface sediments of the Mekong Delta
Authors: Ying S. C. , Damashek J. , Fendorf S. , Francis C. A.
Published: July 2015

Arsenic (As) cycling within soils and sediments of the Mekong Delta of Cambodia is affected by drastic redox fluctuations caused by seasonal monsoons. Extensive flooding during monsoon seasons creates anoxic soil conditions that favor anaerobic microbial processes, including arsenate [As(V)] respiration—a process contributing to the mobilization of As. Repeated oxidation and reduction in near‐surface sediments, which contain 10–40 mg kg−1 As, lead to the eventual downward movement of As to the underlying aquifer. Amplification of a highly conserved functional gene encoding dissimilatory As(V) reductase, arrA, can be used as a molecular marker to detect the genetic potential for As(V) respiration in environmental samples. However, few studies have successfully amplified arrA from sediments without prior enrichment, which can drastically shift community structure. In the present study, we examine the distribution and diversity of arrA genes amplified from multiple sites within the Cambodian Mekong Delta as a function of near‐surface depth (10, 50, 100, 200, and 400 cm), where sediments undergo seasonal redox fluctuations. We report successful amplification of 302 arrA gene sequences (72 OTUs) from near‐surface Cambodian soils (without prior enrichment or stimulation with carbon amendments), where a large majority (>70%) formed a well‐supported clade that is phylogenetically distinct from previously reported sequences from Cambodia and other South and Southeast Asian sediments, with highest sequence similarity to known Geobacter species capable of As(V) respiration, further supporting the potentially important role of Geobacter sp. in arsenic mobilization in these regions.
Knowledge and attitudes survey in bleeding disorders providers regarding pain
Authors: Witkop M. , Lambing A.
Published: July 2015

Introduction

The National Pain Study identified respondents (39%) were not satisfied with their pain management yet over 50% seek out their Haemophilia Treatment Centre (HTC) providers for pain management. This study's purpose was to assess the knowledge and attitudes of HTC providers regarding pain assessment and treatment.

Methods

One hundred and fifty‐two HTC providers responded to a Survey Monkey™ Questionnaire.

Results

Knowledge deficits noted in pharmacology included (i) potentiators of opioids, (ii) time to peak effect of oral morphine, (iii) benzodiazepines usage as effective pain relievers and (iv) dose escalation/respiratory depression in an opioid tolerant patient. Areas of deficit in the substance abuse category involved (i) likelihood of a previous alcohol/drug abuse problem and (ii) signs and symptoms of discontinuation syndrome. Despite 100% confirmation from all providers that the patient is the best source of pain reporting, when presented with two identical case scenarios except for the patient's visual pain presentation; pain ratings were reported differently for patients who rated their pain similarly (8/10), yet displayed their pain symptoms differently resulting in different pain medication regimens. Responses were consistent between the provider groups but varied between case studies suggesting disparity between personal attitudes of providers when prescribing pain medication in the haemophilia population.

Conclusions

Continued research in the area of haemophilia pain as well as treatment is needed. In addition, continuing pain education is recommended for HTC provider's at the local, regional and national levels so providers could remain up to date in the changes and progress of pain management theory.
Health‐related quality of life assessment in haemophilia patients on prophylaxis therapy: a systematic review of results from prospective clinical trials
Authors: Oladapo A. O. , Epstein J. D. , Williams E. , Ito D. , Gringeri A. , Valentino L. A.
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Prophylaxis is effective in reducing the number of bleeding episodes in patients with severe or moderately severe haemophilia A and B, including those with inhibitors. However, data, predominantly from observational studies, suggest more equivocal effects on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL).

Aim

To examine the impact of prophylaxis on HRQoL from prospective clinical trials.

Methods

We performed a systematic literature review of clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of prophylaxis with factor VIII, FIX or bypassing agents. Trials assessing HRQoL via validated instruments were selected and summarized.

Results

Thirteen trials (haemophilia A [n = 8]; haemophilia B [n = 2]; inhibitors [n = 3]) met all inclusion criteria. HRQoL instruments included the EQ‐5D, SF‐36, Haem‐QoL‐A, Haem‐A‐QoL, Haemo‐QoL and CHO‐KLAT. Improvements in HRQoL following prophylaxis were observed with the EQ‐VAS, SF‐36 and haemophilia‐specific instruments in adult patients and were associated with reduced pain, fewer restrictions in physical activities and better general health. Prophylaxis led to statistically significant or clinically meaningful HRQoL improvement in six trials and non‐significant improvement in four trials; two trials found no improvement and one reported no data. Despite study differences, consistent trends suggested that patients previously treated solely on‐demand and those who experienced marked reductions in the frequency of bleeding with prophylaxis had a greater improvement in HRQoL.

Conclusion

Contrary to findings of observational studies, the results from the majority of prospective trials using validated instruments showed positive trends for improved HRQoL with prophylaxis in adults.
An insight into the functional role of thioredoxin reductase, a selenoprotein, in maintaining normal native microbiota in the Gulf Coast tick (Amblyomma maculatum)
Authors: Budachetri K. , Karim S.
Published: July 2015

Tick selenoproteins have been associated with antioxidant activity in ticks. Thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), also a selenoprotein, belongs to the pyridine nucleotide‐disulphide oxidoreductase family of proteins and is an important antioxidant. Molecular interactions between native microbiota and tick hosts have barely been investigated to date. In this study, we determined the functional role of TrxR in tick feeding and in maintenance of the native microbial community. TrxR transcript levels remained high and microbial load was reduced throughout tick attachment to the vertebrate host. RNA interference (RNAi) showed that depletion of TrxR activity did not interfere with tick haematophagy or phenotype but did reduce the viability of the microbiome within the tick tissues, presumably by perturbing redox homeostasis. The transcriptional activity of various antioxidant genes remained unaffected whereas the antioxidant genes Manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn SOD) and selenoprotein M (SelM) were significantly down‐regulated in salivary glands of the ticks subjected to RNAi. The perturbed TrxR enzymatic activity in the knocked‐down tick tissues negatively affected the bacterial load as well. Furthermore, we observed the altered bacterial profiles in TrxR‐silenced tick tissues. Taken together, these results indicate an essential functional role for TrxR in maintaining the bacterial community associated with ticks.
An inter‐ocean comparison of coral endemism on seamounts: the case of Chrysogorgia
Authors: Pante Eric , France Scott C. , Gey Delphine , Cruaud Corinne , Samadi Sarah
Published: July 2015

Aim

The biogeography of seamount fauna remains poorly known, with less than 1% of the world's seamounts having been investigated. Here, we report data on the geographical isolation of species in the octocoral genus Chrysogorgia from south‐west Pacific seamounts and slopes, and contrast the results with patterns observed in the north‐western Atlantic.

Location

Seamounts of the Norfolk Ridge (NR) and Loyalty Ridge (LR), the slope of New Caledonia, and the Matthew and Hunter Islands, south‐west Pacific Ocean, with comparative material from the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.

Methods

The mitochondrial gene mtMutS was used to measure diversity within Chrysogorgia. Community structure was analysed using rarefaction, multivariate analyses, parsimony analysis of endemicity and analysis of molecular variance. The impact of underestimating species richness when using mitochondrial haplotypes was tested using simulations.

Results

Six hundred and thirty‐four colonies and 31 haplotypes were sampled from New Caledonia. Contrary to what was observed in the north‐western Atlantic, seamount‐scale endemism of south‐west Pacific Chrysogorgia was substantial (23% and 39% for haplotypes with n ≥ 20 and n ≥ 2, respectively). LR sheltered 64% of the New Caledonian haplotype diversity. Assemblages were structured less by habitat type (slope versus seamounts) than by depth. Rarefaction analyses suggested that LR and NR seamounts hold more species than the New Caledonian slope, but additional sampling in the south‐western Pacific (133 colonies) revealed that some seemingly geographically restricted haplotypes from New Caledonia have wide geographical distributions, reaching as far as Taiwan.

Main conclusions

The distribution of Pacific Chrysogorgia is characterized by high levels of rarity, patchiness and diversity, with the levels of seamount‐scale and seamount‐chain‐scale endemism higher than in the Atlantic. We hypothesize that the contrast between the wide geographical distribution of Atlantic Chrysogorgia haplotypes and the higher proportion of endemics in the Pacific is largely explained by differences in depth between the seamounts of these two regions.
Embryonic development of lake whitefish Coregonus clupeaformis: a staging series, analysis of growth and effects of fixation
Authors: Sreetharan S. , Thome C. , Mitz C. , Eme J. , Mueller C. A. , Hulley E. N. , Manzon R. G. , Somers C. M. , Boreham D. R. , Wilson J. Y.
Published: July 2015

A reference staging series of 18 morphological stages of laboratory reared lake whitefish Coregonus clupeaformis is provided. The developmental processes of blastulation, gastrulation, neurulation as well as development of the eye, circulatory system, chromatophores and mouth are included and accompanied by detailed descriptions and live imaging. Quantitative measurements of embryo size and mass were taken at each developmental stage. Eggs were 3·19 ± 0·16 mm (mean ± s.d.) in diameter at fertilization and embryos reached a total length (LT) of 14·25 ± 0·41 mm at hatch. Separated yolk and embryo dry mass were 0·25 ± 0·08 mg and 1·39 ± 0·17 mg, respectively, at hatch. The effects of two common preservatives (formalin and ethanol) were examined throughout development and post hatch. Embryo LT significantly decreased following fixation at all points in development. A correction factor to estimate live LT from corresponding fixed LT was determined as live LT = (fixed LT)1·025. Eye diameter and yolk area measurements significantly increased in fixed compared with live embryos up to 85–90% development for both measurements. The described developmental stages can be generalized to teleost species, and is particularly relevant for the study of coregonid development due to additionally shared developmental characteristics. The results of this study and staging series are therefore applicable across various research streams encompassing numerous species that require accurate staging of embryos and descriptions of morphological development.
Development of intelligence 4 to 11 years after paediatric epilepsy surgery
Authors: Puka Klajdi , Tavares Tamara P. , Smith Mary Lou
Published: July 2015

Objective

Little is known about the long‐term intellectual outcomes following paediatric epilepsy surgery. Change is not likely within the first 2 years following surgery, and the few studies of longer term outcomes have yielded inconsistent results. This study addressed this issue by examining a large group of surgical and non‐surgical patients at baseline and after 4–11 years.

Methods

Participants were 97 patients (mean age 20.08 [SD: 4.44] years) with childhood‐onset intractable epilepsy; 61 had undergone resective epilepsy surgery. Participants underwent neuropsychological testing with the age‐appropriate Wechsler Intelligence Scale, generating Full Scale, Performance and Verbal IQs, and Working Memory and Processing Speed indices.

Results

In total 54% of the surgical and 39% of the non‐surgical patients were seizure free in the preceding 12 months (p > .05); however, surgical patients did achieve seizure freedom sooner and used fewer medications at follow‐up. Surgical status was not associated with any cognitive domain. However, with the exception of processing speed, significant seizure status × time interaction effects were evident and seizure‐free patients had higher scores at follow‐up. Regression analyses additionally showed that low pre‐operative scores were predictive of improvement overtime, whereas high pre‐operative scores were predictive of high scores at follow‐up.

Interpretation

The results show similar intellectual outcomes for surgical and non‐surgical paediatric patients. Four to 11 years after paediatric epilepsy surgery, seizure freedom, whether attained through epilepsy surgery or other means, was found to be associated with intellectual improvements. Seizure status and baseline scores were the most consistent predictors.
Partial Sequence Analysis of Geographically Close Grapevine virus A Isolates Reveals their High Regional Variability and an Intra‐Isolate Heterogeneity
Authors: Predajňa Lukáš , Glasa Miroslav
Published: July 2015

To evaluate the genetic diversity of Grapevine virus A (GVA), the genomic region encompassing the partial capsid protein gene and ORF5 was analysed from 10 GVA isolates. Phylogenetic study showed a broad variability of the GVA isolates recovered from a limited geographical area (Slovakia and Czech Republic) and further confirmed the absence of geographical structuration within GVA. Moreover, assessment of structure and intra‐isolate variability revealed that grapevine samples infected with SK13 and SK29 isolates have harboured a population of different sequence variants.
Sleeping difficulty, disease and mortality in older women: a latent class analysis and distal survival analysis
Authors: Leigh Lucy , Hudson Irene L. , Byles Julie E.
Published: July 2015

The aim of this study is to identify patterns of sleep difficulty in older women, to investigate whether sleep difficulty is an indicator for poorer survival, and to determine whether sleep difficulty modifies the association between disease and death. Data were from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health, a 15‐year longitudinal cohort study, with 10 721 women aged 70–75 years at baseline. Repeated‐measures latent class analysis identified four classes of persistent sleep difficulty: troubled sleepers (N = 2429, 22.7%); early wakers (N = 3083, 28.8%); trouble falling asleep (N = 1767, 16.5%); and untroubled sleepers (N = 3442, 32.1%). Sleep difficulty was an indicator for mortality. Compared with untroubled sleepers, hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for troubled sleepers, early wakers, and troubled falling asleep were 1.12 (1.03, 1.23), 0.81 (0.75, 0.91) and 0.89 (0.79, 1.00), respectively. Sleep difficulty may modify the prognosis of women with chronic diseases. Hazard ratios (and 95% confidence intervals) for having three or more diseases (compared with 0 diseases) were enhanced for untroubled sleepers, early wakers and trouble falling asleep [hazard ratio = 1.86 (1.55, 2.22), 1.91 (1.56, 2.35) and 1.98 (1.47, 2.66), respectively], and reduced for troubled sleepers [hazard ratio = 1.57 (1.24, 1.98)]. Sleep difficulty in older women is more complex than the presence or absence of sleep difficulty, and should be considered when assessing the risk of death associated with disease.
TM6SF2 rs58542926 is not associated with steatosis and fibrosis in large cohort of patients with genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Petta Salvatore , Maida Marcello , Grimaudo Stefania , Pipitone Rosaria M. , Macaluso Fabio S. , Cabibi Daniela , Cammà Calogero , Di Marco Vito , Sferrazza Sandro , Craxì Antonio
Published: July 2015

Background & Aims

We tested the putative association of the rs58542926 variant of TM6SF2, a recently described genetic determinant of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, with steatosis and fibrosis in genotype 1(G1) chronic hepatitis C(CHC) patients.

Methods

A total of 694 consecutively biopsied Caucasian G1 CHC patients were genotyped for TM6SF2 rs58542926, IL28B rs12979860 and PNPLA3 rs738409. Steatosis was classified as absent (<5%), mild‐moderate(5–29%) and severe(≥30%), Fibrosis was considered severe if=F3‐F4.

Results

Carriers of TM6SF2 rs58542926 (6.3% of patients) exhibited lower serum levels of cholesterol (P = 0.04) and triglycerides (P = 0.01), but a similar distribution of steatosis severity (P = 0.63), compared to noncarriers. Prevalence and severity of steatosis were reduced in IL28B C allele carriers (P = 0.005) and elevated in PNPLA3 G allele carriers (P < 0.001). After adjustment for age, gender, body mass index and homoeostasis model assessment score, steatosis severity was independently associated with IL28B rs12979860 (odds ratio [OR] 0.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.55–0.86, P = 0.001) and PNPLA3 rs738409 (OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.46–2.83, P < 0.001), but not TM6SF2 rs58542926 (OR 1.48, 95% CI 0.82–2.69, P = 0.19). Variants of TM6SF2 (30.9% vs. 25%, P = 0.40), IL28B and PNPLA3 were not directly associated with fibrosis severity, although variants of IL28B and PNPLA3 promoted steatosis (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.06–1.75, P = 0.01) that in turn is associated with severe fibrosis.

Conclusions

In G1 CHC patients, TM6SF2 rs58542926 does not affect the histological severity of liver damage. However, IL28B rs12979860 and PNPLA3 rs738409 modify steatosis.
Ambulance clinicians' experiences of relationships with patients and significant others
Authors: Holmberg Mats , Wahlberg Anna Carin , Fagerberg Ingegerd , Forslund Kerstin
Published: July 2015

Background

Ambulance clinicians (ACs) have to provide advanced care and treatment to patients in a challenging and emotionally demanding environment, therefore they establish interpersonal relationships embracing both patients and significant others. Relationships in emergency care were earlier found to be short‐lived and lacking a holistic understanding of the patient. In their relationship with the ambulance clinicians, it is for patients to surrender and become dependent, which may be interpreted as both a negative and a positive experience.

Aim

The aim of this study was to elucidate ambulance clinicians' experiences of relationships with patients and significant others.

Methods

Data were collected from four focus group conversations, with a total of 18 participating ambulance clinicians. An inductive qualitative content analysis method was chosen.

Findings

The analysis resulted in one main category: ‘To be personal in a professional role’ and three generic categories: ‘To be there for the affected person’, ‘To be personally involved’ and ‘To have a professional mission’. There were subsequently nine sub‐categories. The main category was described as intertwining the experience of being both personal and professional. The ambulance clinicians adapt to a situation while having the affected person in focus. They involve themselves as persons but at the same time use the power of their professional role.

Conclusion

The relationship with patients and significant others from the ambulance clinicians' perspective can be understood as embracing both personal and professional aspects.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study provides an understanding of the ambulance clinicians' professional role as embracing a personal perspective, which is important when developing an emergency ambulance service focusing on care that involves more than just emergency medical treatment.
Comparison of different anesthesia techniques during esophagogastroduedenoscopy in children: a randomized trial
Authors: Patino Mario , Glynn Susan , Soberano Mark , Putnam Philip , Hossain Md Monir , Hoffmann Clifford , Samuels Paul , Kibelbek Michael J. , Gunter Joel
Published: July 2015

Background

Esophagogastroduedenoscopy (EGD) in children is usually performed under general anesthesia. Anesthetic goals include minimization of airway complications while maximizing operating room (OR) efficiency. Currently, there is no consensus on which anesthetic technique best meets these goals. We performed a prospective randomized study comparing three different anesthetic techniques.

Aims

To evaluate the incidence of respiratory complications (primary aim) and institutional efficiency (secondary aim) among three different anesthetic techniques in children undergoing EGD.

Methods

Subjects received a standardized inhalation induction of anesthesia followed by randomization to one of the three groups: Group intubated, sevoflurane (IS), Group intubated, propofol (IP), and Group native airway, nonintubated, propofol (NA). Respiratory complications included minor desaturation (SpO2 between 94% and 85%), severe desaturation (SpO2 < 85%), apnea, airway obstruction/laryngospasm, aspiration, and/or inadequate anesthesia during the endoscopy. Evaluation of institutional efficiency was determined by examining the time spent during the different phases of care (anesthesia preparation, procedure, OR stay, recovery, and total perioperative care).

Results

One hundred and seventy‐nine children aged 1–12 years (median 7 years; 4.0, 10.0) were enrolled (Group IS N = 60, Group IP N = 59, Group NA N = 61). The incidence of respiratory complications was higher in the Group NA (0.459) vs Group IS (0.033) or Group IP (0.086) (P < 0.0001). The most commonly observed complications were desaturation, inadequate anesthesia, and apnea. There were no differences in institutional efficiency among the three groups.

Conclusion

Respiratory complications were more common in Group NA. The use of native airway with propofol maintenance during EGD does not offer advantages with respect to respiratory complications or institutional efficiency.
Verification of risk scores to predict i.v. immunoglobulin resistance in incomplete Kawasaki disease
Authors: Kanamitsu Kiichiro , Kakimoto Hisako , Shimada Akira , Nakata Yusei , Ochi Hiroaki , Watanabe Hirokazu , Iwasaki Yuka , Tokorodani Chiho , Kanazawa Akane , Maruyama Hidehiko , Miyazawa Mari , Nishiuchi Ritsuo , Kikkawa Kiyoshi
Published: July 2015

Background

A recent study indicated the efficacy of the addition of prednisolone to i.v. immunoglobulin (IVIG) as initial treatment in patients with higher risk of IVIG resistance. Several different risk scores for predicting IVIG resistance have been proposed, mainly based on typical Kawasaki disease (KD) patients. We investigated the utility of the risk scores to predict IVIG resistance in incomplete KD.

Methods

Clinical records of incomplete KD patients who received a single dose of IVIG between 2005 and 2012 at Kochi Health Sciences Center were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were classified into an IVIG‐responsive group and an IVIG‐resistant group. The Kobayashi, Egami, and Sano risk scores were calculated for each patient and the proportion of high‐risk patients was compared between the two groups for each risk score.

Results

For 51 incomplete KD patients, Kobayashi (66.7% vs 47.6%, P = 0.253), Egami (55.6% vs 38.1%, P = 0.274), and Sano (57.1% vs 10.8%, P = 0.068) risk scores identified a higher proportion of high‐risk patients in the IVIG‐resistant group compared with the IVIG‐responsive group, but significant difference was not observed. Sano risk score had the highest OR (6.19; 95%CI: 1.00–38.26).

Conclusions

The proportion of patients identified as being at high risk for IVIG resistance using the Kobayashi, Egami, and Sano risk scores, respectively, was not significantly different between the IVIG‐responsive group and the IVIG‐resistant group for incomplete KD. Among the three risk scores, the Sano risk score has the best ability to predict IVIG resistance in incomplete KD.
Nursery‐linked plantation outbreaks and evidence for multiple introductions of the pitch canker pathogen Fusarium circinatum into South Africa
Authors: Santana Q. C. , Coetzee M. P. A. , Wingfield B. D. , Wingfield M. J. , Steenkamp E. T.
Published: July 2015

In recent years, Pinus plantation forestry has been significantly hampered by outbreaks of pitch canker caused by the fungus Fusarium circinatum. This study investigated the role of Pinus host, geographic origin and reproductive mode in structuring the F. circinatum populations in plantations. For this purpose, 159 isolates originating from diseased plantation trees in the Western and Eastern Cape Provinces of South Africa were genotyped using 10 microsatellite markers. Analyses of these data revealed 30 multilocus haplotypes and that the populations were distinct based on geographic origin as well as host. However, shared haplotypes were observed between populations, showing that these populations are connected, possibly through the movement of haplotypes. A second aim was to determine whether the genetic variation found in these populations of the fungus could be attributed to outbreaks of the seedling disease caused by this pathogen in Pinus nurseries. To achieve this goal, an additional set of 43 isolates originating from pine seedling nurseries was genotyped and analysed. The results showed that the populations of F. circinatum in plantations most probably originated from the nursery outbreaks that occurred prior to the plantation outbreak. Inferences regarding reproductive mode further showed that sexual reproduction has little impact on the genetic makeup of the F. circinatum populations and that they primarily reproduce asexually. Overall, the results of this study showed that the F. circinatum diversity in South Africa has arisen due to multiple introductions of the pathogen and is not due to sexual reproduction.
Sheep Model of Hemodialysis Arteriovenous Fistula Using Superficial Veins
Authors: Florescu Marius C. , Foster Kirk W. , Sacks Andrew R. , Lof John , Stolze Elizabeth A. , Fry Gretchen M. , Bumgardner Derek P. , Tysinger Tara , Kuchta Melanie J. , Runge Henry J. , Hadley William B. , Morris Michael C.
Published: July 2015

Current models of animal arteriovenous fistula (AVF) are swine models of femoral vein terminolaterally anastomosed to femoral artery, creating a deep AVF. This feature sets it aside from human AVFs using superficial veins. Our AVF model uses sheep superficial veins to create an AVF almost identical to human model. AVFs were created in six sheep using basilic veins sutured terminolaterally to brachial artery. Presurgery vein and artery diameters were measured. We measured AVFs and feeding arteries blood flows and diameters at 1, 3, and 5 weeks postsurgery. At 5 weeks we performed angiograms, euthanized animals, and harvested AVFs. Four animals completed the study. Three AVFs developed and were patent at 5 weeks; one thrombosed. Animal weight and presurgery vessels diameters predicted AVFs blood flows and diameters. Despite using vessels with diameters smaller than the ones recommended for human AVF, the Fistulas developed. Two animals died before the study conclusion for causes unrelated to surgery. This AVF model is anatomically almost identical to the human AVF and has a good maturation rate. It is a viable model for studying AVF maturation, devices intended to improve AVF maturation, AVF related procedures and can even support hemodialysis needles.
How Language Programs the Mind
Authors: Lupyan Gary , Bergen Benjamin
Published: July 2015

Many animals can be trained to perform novel tasks. People, too, can be trained, but sometime in early childhood people transition from being trainable to something qualitatively more powerful—beingprogrammable. We argue that such programmability constitutes a leap in the way that organisms learn, interact, and transmit knowledge, and that what facilitates or enables this programmability is the learning and use of language. We then examinehowlanguage programs the mind and argue that it does so through the manipulation of embodied, sensorimotor representations. The role language plays in controlling mental representations offers important insights for understanding its origin and evolution.
Statistical Investigation of Air Dehumidification Performance by Aqueous Lithium Bromide Desiccant in a Packed Column: A Thermodynamic Approach
Authors: Omidvar Langroudi L. , Pahlavanzadeh H.
Published: July 2015

Lithium bromide solution is used as a desiccant in air dehumidification systems. Liquid desiccant is a solution that facilitates the removal of humidity directly from the air. In this work, effectiveness of a LiBr based air dehumidifier was studied by correlating the vapor–liquid equilibrium data with a proposed thermodynamic model. For this, the nonelectrolyte Wilson nonrandom factor (N-Wilson-NRF) model and the Pitzer–Debye–Huckel formula were used to represent the contribution of the short and the long range ion–ion interactions. In particular, the proposed model assumed that the electrolyte solution is treated as a mixture of undissociated ion pairs and solvent molecules. The proposed equation of this study is valid for the temperature range of 20–35 °C and concentration range of 0.40–0.60 kg/kg. This relation was employed to estimate the equivalent humidity ratio, and then, the humidity ratio from the previous step was used to calculate the effectiveness of a LiBr based dehumidifier. The response surface methodology (RSM) was applied for the design and analysis of the dehumidification experiments. A quadratic model was implemented to predict the dehumidification effectiveness. This model studies the implications of four primary variables on the effectiveness of a dehumidification process. The optimal values to achieve the maximum effectiveness were found to be 32.5 °C for the air temperature, 0.0210 kg/kg for the air humidity ratio, 2.17 for the mass flow rate ratio, and finally, 0.50 kg/kg for the desiccant concentration. These values gave the dehumidification effectiveness of 0.544. The result of the model was in good agreement with the experimental value 0.542, thus verifying the accuracy of the proposed model.
Edge Forces in Contacting Graphene Layers
Authors: Li Jianxin , Zhang Hongwei , Guo Zhengrong , Chang Tienchong , Gao Huajian
Published: July 2015

Temperature- and stiffness-dependent edge forces offer new mechanisms of designing nanodevices driven by temperature and stiffness gradients. Here, we investigate the edge forces in a graphene nanolayer on a spring supported graphene substrate based on molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The dependences of the edge forces on the temperature and stiffness of the substrate are discussed in detail. Special attention is paid to the effect of the out-of-plane deformation of the substrate on the constituent edge forces and the resultant edge force. The results show that the deformation may lead to a significant redistribution of the constituent edge forces but does not change the resultant edge force, suggesting that particular caution should be exercised in designing nanodevices based on sliding graphene layers to avoid potential edge damage.
A Neuronal Model of Central Pattern Generator to Account for Natural Motion Variation
Authors: Razavian Reza Sharif , Mehrabi Naser , McPhee John
Published: July 2015

We have developed a simple mathematical model of the human motor control system, which can generate periodic motions in a musculoskeletal arm. Our motor control model is based on the idea of a central pattern generator (CPG), in which a small population of neurons generates periodic limb motion. The CPG model produces the motion based on a simple descending command—the desired frequency of motion. Furthermore, the CPG model is implemented by a spiking neuron model; as a result of the stochasticity in the neuron activities, the motion exhibits a certain level of variation similar to real human motion. Finally, because of the simple structure of the CPG model, it can generate the sophisticated muscle excitation commands much faster than optimization-based methods.