bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital display monitor performance in general dental practice
Authors: Butt A , Savage NW
Published: May 2015

Background

The performance of computer displays represents an important factor influencing the quality of digital radiographs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of computer displays used for the purposes of diagnostic radiology in a sample of dental practices in one Australian state.

Methods

Twelve dental practices comprising 29 displays elected to participate in a detailed performance evaluation of their computer displays according to the AAPM TG18 and DICOM part 14 GSDF standards.

Results

None of the 29 displays tested passed the primary or secondary acceptance criteria developed by the AAPM TG18. The greatest contributor to display failure, both prior to and following calibration, were specular and diffuse reflection. When the parameter of display reflection was ignored, the most frequent parameters contributing to display failure following calibration included the primary grade acceptance criteria of noise (n = 29, 100%), contrast ratio (n = 9, 31%) and maximum luminance (n = 12, 41%). However, display calibration resulted in a significant improvement in the parameter of contrast response.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated significant problems concerning the performance of display monitors in the population surveyed. In recognition of the growing utilization of digital imaging in dentistry the importance of the computer display should be considered.
Subungual fibro‐osseous pseudotumour of the toe
Authors: Meani Rowena E , Bloom Richard J , Battye Shane , Chamberlain Alex J
Published: May 2015

Subungual fibro‐osseous pseudotumour of the toe is a rare osseous soft tissue tumour of which only six cases have been described in the literature. We present a case in a teenage boy that posed an instructive diagnostic challenge and discuss the distinguishing features of the various differential diagnoses. The subungual location is very rare. For such tumours, radiology is as vital as histopathology in making a diagnosis and excluding neoplasia. Accurate diagnosis requires careful clinico‐pathological and radiological correlation. These sorts of lesions may present to the dermatologist, not always the foot surgeon.
The Value of Electrocardiographic Abnormalities in the Prognosis of Pulmonary Embolism: A Consensus Paper
Authors: Digby Geneviève C. , Kukla Piotr , Zhan Zhong‐Qun , Pastore Carlos A. , Piotrowicz Ryszard , Schapachnik Edgardo , Zareba Wojciech , Bayés de Luna Antonio , Pruszczyk Piotr , Baranchuk Adrian M.
Published: May 2015

Electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities in the setting of acute pulmonary embolism (PE) are being increasingly characterized and mounting evidence suggests that ECG plays a valuable role in prognostication for PE. We review the historical 21‐point ECG prognostic score for the severity of PE and examine the updated evidence surrounding the utility of ECG abnormalities in prognostication for severity of acute PE. We performed a literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PubMed up to February 2015. Article titles and abstracts were screened, and articles were included if they were observational studies that used a surface 12‐lead ECG as the instrument for measurement, a diagnosis of PE was confirmed by imaging, arteriography or autopsy, and analysis of prognostic outcomes was performed. Thirty‐six articles met our inclusion criteria. We review the prognostic value of ECG abnormalities included in the 21‐point ECG score, including new evidence that has arisen since the time of its publication. We also discuss the potential prognostic value of several ECG abnormalities with newly identified prognostic value in the setting of acute PE.
Assessment of parafoveal cone density in patients taking hydroxychloroquine in the absence of clinically documented retinal toxicity
Authors: Debellemanière Guillaume , Flores Mathieu , Tumahai Perle , Meillat Mathieu , Bidaut Garnier Mélanie , Delbosc Bernard , Saleh Maher
Published: May 2015

Purpose

To measure cone density in patients taking hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), with no clinical evidence of maculopathy.

Methods

Patients visiting for HCQ macular toxicity screening in the Besançon University Hospital Ophthalmology Department (France) were studied. They underwent routine examination including spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography, fundus autofluorescence and multifocal electroretinogram to detect HCQ‐induced retinal toxicity. Cone metrics (density, spacing and percentage of cones with six neighbours) were obtained using an adaptive optics camera (RTX1, Imagine Eyes, Orsay, France). The region of interest corresponded to a 0.3° × 0.3° square placed nasally and temporally at 2° of eccentricity from the fovea.

Results

Forty eyes of 23 patients were studied. The majority of the patients (21/23) were female. They were aged from 25 to 60 years (mean age ± SD: 40.1 years ± 10). The cumulative dose for HCQ ranged from 24 to 2160 g (777 ± 558 g). None of them displayed HCQ toxicity on screening tests. Bivariate analysis showed moderate cone loss with escalating doses of HCQ (linear regression, r² = 0.23, p = 0.018). Cone spacing also increased with increasing cumulative dose (r² = 0.17, p = 0.008). Cone packing remained unchanged (p > 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that age and cumulative dose were additive and independent factors of cone dropout.

Conclusions

In this pilot study, we observed moderate cone loss as HCQ cumulative doses increased. The early detection of parafoveal cone metric changes may represent the earliest sign of HCQ macular toxicity during screening.
Exploitation of Beehive Products, Plant Exudates and Tars in Corsica During the Early Iron Age
Authors: Rageot M. , Pêche‐Quilichini K. , Py V. , Filippi J.‐J. , Fernandez X. , Regert M.
Published: May 2015

In the north‐western Mediterranean area, the first Iron Age is characterized by intense contacts and cultural interactions between populations. Archaeological remains such as ceramic vessels or metal and glass objects are usually good indicators of the nature and the intensity of these exchanges, but can also be used to determine the way in which these populations were living at their time. In contrast, organic substances, despite their importance in a wide variety of activities, are rarely investigated due to their low degree of preservation. The recent discovery of a series of amorphous organic residues with adhesive properties at the site of Cuciurpula provided a unique opportunity to address questions related to the types of natural substances exploited, their provenance, their uses and their informational input to intercultural relationships. Our results, based on GC and GC–MS analysis of organic residues preserved at the site of Cuciurpula, provide strong evidence for the most southern use of birch bark tar in Western Europe, and also for the simultaneous use of this substance with pine resin. Beeswax was also identified in some samples. The combined study of residue composition, aspect and location on ceramic sherds reveals a variety of uses, highlighting a complex technical system.
Looking back on the London Olympics: Independent outcome and hindsight effects in decision evaluation
Authors: Blank Hartmut , Diedenhofen Birk , Musch Jochen
Published: May 2015

Outcome bias and hindsight bias are related, but how exactly? To remedy theoretical ambiguity and non‐existent directly relevant empirical research, we contrast an older idea (Baron & Hershey, 1988, J. Pers. Soc. Psychol., 54, 569) that sees outcome bias as partly mediated through hindsight bias with the idea that the two biases independently affect decision evaluations. In an Internet study of retrospections on the 2012 London Olympics, evaluations of the Games' success and its foreseeability had independent effects on evaluations of the International Olympic Committee's decision to award the Olympics to London; there was no evidence of mediation. Further theoretical discussion emphasizes the need to distinguish between a holistic assessment of decisions and a more specific assessment of the decision‐making process in future outcome bias research.
Synthesis of Novel 3‐aryl‐1‐oxa‐2,8‐diazaspiro[4.5]dec‐2‐ene Derivatives and Their Biological Evaluation Against Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B
Authors: Wang Wen‐Long , Chen Xia , Gao Li‐Xin , Sheng Li , Li Jing‐Ya , Li Jia , Feng Bainian
Published: May 2015

A series of novel 3‐aryl‐1‐oxa‐2,8‐diazaspiro[4.5]dec‐2‐ene derivatives were designed, synthesized, and evaluated as a new class of inhibitors against protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B. Among them, compound 6f displayed moderate inhibitory activity with IC50 of 2.87 ± 0.24 μm and can be used as a novel lead compound for the design of inhibitors of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B.
Impact of a Multifaceted Intervention on Promoting Adherence to Screening Colonoscopy Among Persons in HIV Primary Care: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ferron Pansy , Asfour Shihab S. , Metsch Lisa R. , Antoni Michael H. , Rodriguez Allan E. , Duncan Robert , Findlay Sheila M.
Published: May 2015

HIV‐positive patients have lower colon cancer screening rates and are at increased risk for colon adenocarcinoma. We tested a transdisciplinary prevention model to increase provider and patient adherence to screening colonoscopy. Of 1,339 HIV‐positive patients with scheduled clinic appointments during the period September to November 2009, we identified 400 records of eligible patients ≥50 years and retrospectively reviewed for screening colonoscopy referral; if never referred, flagged for referral at next visit. Providers referred 43.5% (174/400) patients and 36.2% (63/174) kept appointment. Within 6 months before the study, 337 patients attended clinic and providers referred 18%. Note that 211/226 patients with flagged records attended clinic at least once during the study 6‐month period and providers referred (43.6%). The referral rate for flagged records was significantly different from that for the prior 6 months (p < 0.0001). A randomized trial compared the efficacy of patient decision support versus usual care on screening adherence. Among patients randomized to intervention 17 (51.5%) compared to usual care only 16 (48.5%), intervention group showed significant adherence of 70.6% (12/17) versus 29.4% (5/16), (p = 0.024). In addition, intervention patients had good bowel preparation of 76.9% (10/13) versus usual care 23.1% (3/13), (p = 0.05). This transdisciplinary intervention model significantly increased provider and patient screening colonoscopy behavior.
Impact of Professional Student Mentored Research Fellowship on Medical Education and Academic Medicine Career Path
Authors: Areephanthu Christopher James , Bole Raevti , Stratton Terry , Kelly Thomas H. , Starnes Catherine P. , Sawaya B. Peter
Published: May 2015

Context

This study explores the long‐term impact of the Professional Student Mentored Research Fellowship (PSMRF) program at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine (UKCOM) on medical students’ research productivity and career paths.

Methods

Demographic characteristics, academic profiles, number of publications and residency placements from 2007 to 2012 were used to assess 119 PSMRF graduates against a comparison cohort of 898 UKCOM (non‐PSMRF) students.

Results

PSMRF students had higher MCAT scores at admission (31.5 ± 0.6 vs. 30.6 ± 0.2, p = 0.007) and achieved higher USMLE Step 1 scores (228 ± 4.2 vs. 223 ± 1.5, p = 0.03) than comparison group. PSMRF students were more likely to publish PubMed‐indexed papers (36.7% vs. 17.9%, p < 0.0001), achieve AOA status (19.3% vs. 8.5%, p = 0.0002) and match to top 25 US News and World Report residency programs (23.4% vs. 12.1%, p = 0.008). A greater proportion of PSMRF fellows matched to top tier competitive specialties (23% vs. 14.2%, p = 0.07), however this difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

The PSMRF program shows a significant increase in enrollment, as well as positive associations with indicators of success in medical school and subsequent quality of residency program.
Association between hypoglycaemia and impaired hypoglycaemia awareness and mortality in people with Type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Sejling A.‐S. , Schouwenberg B. , Færch L. H. , Thorsteinsson B. , de Galan B. E. , Pedersen‐Bjergaard U.
Published: May 2015

Aims

To examine whether severe hypoglycaemia and impaired hypoglycaemic awareness, a principal predictor of severe hypoglycaemia, are associated with all‐cause mortality or cardiovascular mortality in Type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

Mortality was recorded in two cohorts, one in Denmark (n = 269, follow‐up 12 years) and one in the Netherlands (n = 482, follow‐up 6.5 years). In both cohorts, awareness class was characterized and numbers of episodes of severe hypoglycaemia either during lifetime (Danish cohort) or during the preceding year (Dutch cohort) were recorded. In addition, episodes of severe hypoglycaemia were prospectively recorded every month for 1 year in the Danish cohort. Follow‐up data regarding mortality were obtained through medical reports and registries (Danish cohort).

Results

All‐cause mortality was 14% (n = 39) in the Danish and 4% (n = 20) in the Dutch cohort. In either cohort, neither presence of episodes with severe hypoglycaemia nor impaired hypoglycaemia awareness were associated with increased mortality in age‐truncated Cox proportional hazard regression models. Variables associated with increased risk of all‐cause mortality in both cohorts were evidence of macrovascular disease and reduced kidney function.

Conclusions

Severe hypoglycaemia and hypoglycaemia unawareness are not associated with increased risk of all‐cause or cardiovascular mortality in people with Type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Ten years of invasion: Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) in Britain
Authors: ROY HELEN E. , BROWN PETER M. J.
Published: May 2015

1. Harmonia axyridis was first recorded in Britain in 2004. Two subsequent earlier records were received from 2003.

2. The UK Ladybird Survey, a citizen science initiative involving online recording, was launched in 2005 to encourage people across Britain to track the spread of H. axyridis. Tens of thousands of people have provided records of H. axyridis and other species of ladybirds, creating an invaluable dataset for large‐scale and long‐term research. Declines in the distribution of seven (of eight assessed) native species of ladybird have been demonstrated, and correlated with the arrival of H. axyridis, using the records collated through the UK Ladybird Survey.

3. Experimental research and field surveys have also contributed to our understanding of the ecology of H. axyridis and particularly the process of invasion. Harmonia axyridis arrived in Britain through dispersal and introduction events from regions in which it was deliberately released as a biological control agent. The rapid spread of this species has been attributed to its high natural dispersal capability by means of both flight and anthropogenic transport. A number of factors have contributed to the successful establishment and indeed dominance of this polymorphic species within aphidophagous guilds, including high reproductive capacity, intra‐guild predation, eurytopic nature, high resistance to natural enemies within the invaded range, and potentially phenotypic plasticity.

4. The global invasion by H. axyridis and subsequent research on this species has contributed to the general understanding of biological invasions.
Can Retrieval Opportunities Increase Vocabulary Learning During Reading?
Authors: Barcroft Joe
Published: May 2015

Because reading for meaning only can lead to low rates of second language (L2) vocabulary learning and because previous research has demonstrated the benefits of word retrieval opportunities for intentional L2 vocabulary learning (Barcroft, 2007; McNamara & Healy, 1995a, Experiment 2; Royer, 1973), the present study assessed the effect of providing learners with opportunities to retrieve novel words as they read a passage. Seventy‐four Spanish‐speaking intermediate learners of L2 English read an English text for meaning. Each of five target words (e.g., smidgen) appeared three times in the text. Control participants (n = 37) always viewed the Spanish translations of the target words. Participants in the experimental condition (n = 37) viewed the Spanish translation for each target word only the first time the word appeared and then attempted to retrieve and produce (write) the word on their own for the final two appearances. Both first language (L1)‐to‐L2 and L2‐to‐L1 posttests were administered. Results indicated a highly significant (51%) increase in vocabulary learning for the experimental group over the control group. These findings suggest that both partial and complete target word retrieval can strengthen developing lexical representations and that word retrieval may be utilized to increase vocabulary learning during reading regardless of the L2 in question.
Wages Due Lesbians: Visibility and Feminist Organizing in 1970s Canada
Authors: Rousseau Christina
Published: May 2015

In this article I look at the emergence of Wages Due Lesbians, a lesbian group that was part of the Marxist feminist group Wages for Housework in Canada. In presenting Wages Due as a historical case study, I re‐visit the notion of ‘visibility’ in relation to lesbian motherhood in Canada in the 1970s through an examination of struggles for welfare, child custody, and against violence. Through this case study I present the shifting ideas regarding respectability and homosexuality from the 1970s to today.
Survey of coagulation factor concentrates tender and procurement procedures in 38 European Countries
Authors: O'Mahony B. , Noone D. , Prihodova L.
Published: May 2015

Introduction

Procurement of coagulation factor concentrates (CFCs) for the treatment of haemophilia is a vital process that determines the quantity and quality of factor replacement therapy.

Aim

The aim of this study was to examine the different tender and procurement systems used in Europe for the procurement of CFCs and the outcomes produced by the various systems.

Methods

The survey questionnaire consisted of 30 items and explored various aspects of the procurement process including the prices of CFCs. In 2014, the survey was sent out by the European Haemophilia Consortium (EHC) to 45 national haemophilia patient organizations affiliated to the EHC in all European countries as well as to a designated clinician familiar with the procurement process.

Results

The survey was completed by 38 European countries. Nineteen countries use a tender process, 17 an alternative procurement process and 2 use a combination of methods. A wide variety of agencies and individuals are involved in the process. Factors associated with optimum outcome and lower prices include a tender process with a specific legal framework and a tender board including haemophilia clinicians and patient organization representatives. Safety was reported as the most important selection criterion but given the safety profile of almost all currently licensed products, price was the main criterion used in many countries.

Conclusion

The involvement of both clinicians and patient organizations greatly improves the outcome of a tender or procurement process, as does the presence of a legal framework that governs the process.
How Reliable Are the Findings of ‘Foreign’ Investor Studies That Use TIC Data? A Look from the Host Market
Authors: Ülkü Numan , Petrov Petar
Published: May 2015

Empirical literature on foreign investors' trading in stock markets heavily relies on US Treasury International Capital (TIC) data. Biases in TIC data and the fact that it represents only one source country raise questions on how reliable the conclusions based on TIC data are. Employing novel data of complete foreign flows compiled at destination, we answer these questions. Although the correlations between net flows derived from TIC and destination‐compiled data are low, and visible differences exist in some individual country results, TIC findings are not far off in central tendency. Notably, however, net foreign flows' persistence, positive response to world returns and positive contemporaneous correlation with local returns are more significant than TIC data suggest. Measurement noise in TIC data appears to result in underestimation of these key features.
Visible‐Light‐Induced Degradation of Methylene Blue by SrBi3VO8 Nanoparticles
Authors: Pu Yinfu , Wang Jing , Huang Yanlin , Chen Cuili , Kim Sun Il , Seo Hyo Jin
Published: May 2015

Nanosized particles of strontium bismuth vanadate SrBi3VO8 were prepared via the Pechini method on the base of citrate‐complexation route. The samples were characterized using X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectra (EDX), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopic (XPS), and UV–vis absorption spectrum. This bismuth‐containing vanadate presents an efficient absorption in the UV–visible light wavelength region with a narrow band‐gap energy of 2.36 eV and an indirect allowed electronic transition. It is well‐known that hybridization of the 6s and 6p orbitals of Bi3+ could result in lone electron pair and yield some very interesting properties. The photocatalytic activities of SrBi3VO8 nanoparticles were evaluated by the photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) under visible light irradiation in air atmosphere. These results indicate that SrBi3VO8 could be a potential photocatalyst driven by visible light. To understand the charge generation and separation process, the luminescence as well as the decay lifetimes was investigated in the same samples for photocatalysis.
Mortality of People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities from SelectUSState Disability Service Systems and Medical Claims Data
Authors: Lauer Emily , McCallion Philip
Published: May 2015

Background

Monitoring population trends including mortality within subgroups such as people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and between countries provides crucial information about the population's health and insights into underlying health concerns and the need for and effectiveness of public health efforts.

Methods

Data from bothUSstate intellectual and developmental disabilities service system administrative data sets and de‐identified state Medicaid claims were used to calculate average age at death and crude mortality rates.

Results

Average age at death for people in state intellectual and developmental disabilities systems was 50.4–58.7 years and 61.2–63.0 years in Medicaid data, with a crude adult mortality rate of 15.2 per thousand.

Conclusions

Age at death remains lower and mortality rates higher for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Improved case finding (e.g. medical claims) could provide more complete mortality patterns for the population with intellectual and developmental disabilities to inform the range of access and receipt of supportive and health‐related interventions and preventive care.
Electrophysiologic and Clinical Consequences of Left Atrial Anterior Wall Linear Ablation in Patients With Persistent Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: ZHANG JINLIN , TANG CHENG , ZHANG YONGHUA , SU XI
Published: May 2015

Consequences of Left Atrial Anterior Wall Linear Ablation

Objective

As an alternative to the mitral isthmus line (MIL), the left atrial anterior wall line (LAAWL) is effective for the treatment of perimitral flutter. This study evaluated the electrophysiologic and clinical outcomes of LAAWL versus MIL in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

Two hundred patients with persistent AF were evenly randomized to the LAAWL and MIL groups. After confirming bidirectional block of the line, left atrial appendage (LAA) activation time and LA propagation pattern were assessed during sinus rhythm (SR). Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography (TTE and TEE) were performed at 12 months after ablation in patients who remained in stable SR.

Results

In the 74 patients with LAAWL conduction block relative to the 79 with MIL conduction block, LA propagation contour was markedly changed with delayed LAA potential (longer P‐wave onset‐to‐LAA potential interval: 151.7 ± 19.5 vs. 67.8 ± 18.3 milliseconds, P < 0.001); TTE peak A velocity was lower and LAA emptying wave was delayed in the LAAWL group compared with the MIL group; spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) detected in the LAAWL group was significantly higher than that in the MIL group (15.8% vs. 1.6%, p = 0.0004). During a mean follow‐up period of 31.8 ± 9.4 (22–57) months, there were 5 cases of stroke in the LAAWL group, which was significantly different from the MIL group (5% vs. 0%, P = 0.047).

Conclusions

Complete linear lesions transecting the anterior LA were associated with a significant change in the SR propagation pattern with late activation of LAA. This might result in an increased risk of long‐term thrombo‐embolism events.
Successful pollination of the Neotropical crop Solanum quitoense by Bombus terrestris: behaviour, efficiency and yield
Authors: Messinger J. , Martini M. M. F. , Rossi G. , Samuels J. , Lauerer M.
Published: May 2015

The South American lulo (Solanum quitoense Lam.) is a crop plant of the Andes of Ecuador and Colombia, pollinated by South American bumblebees, such as, Bombus atratus Franklin. The cultivation of lulo outside of its native range, for example in European glasshouses, requires the presence of efficient pollinators to enable high fruit set and yield. Until now, the suitability of Bombus terrestris L., native to Europe and commonly used in agriculture, has been untested for this purpose. In this study, the pollen‐collecting behaviour of B. terrestris when visiting lulo flowers was investigated. It was shown that B. terrestris adopted the lulo as a pollen source, and on average visited three flowers per minute, had five buzzing events per stay and foraged for 15 s on a single flower, independently of the previous number of visits and level of bruising to the anthers. The pollination efficiency of five different treatments was evaluated: (i) exclusion of bees, (ii) single and (iii) multiple visits of B. terrestris, (iv) self‐ and (v) cross‐pollination by hand. The results clearly demonstrated that, for fruit set, pollination is crucial. It was also found that lulo flowers can be successfully self‐pollinated, but give 25% fewer fruit set compared with pollination via multiple bumblebee visits, or cross‐pollination by hand. Fruit set, seed set and fruit size were as high with pollination by B. terrestris as with cross‐pollination by hand, indicating that this bumblebee is an appropriate pollinator for lulo. However, B. terrestris was conspicuously less effective when a flower was visited only once. Therefore, when growing lulos commercially, multiple bumblebee visits should be encouraged, but it is likely that the behaviour of B. terrestris would ensure this anyway. Our results indicate that B. terrestris is a suitable and efficient pollinator for the production of lulo fruits.
Sterol Composition and Biosynthetic Genes of Vitrella brassicaformis, a Recently Discovered Chromerid: Comparison to Chromera velia and Phylogenetic Relationship with Apicomplexan Parasites
Authors: Khadka Manoj , Salem Mohamed , Leblond Jeffrey D.
Published: May 2015

Vitrella brassicaformis is the second discovered species in the Chromerida, and first in the family Vitrellaceae. Chromera velia, the first discovered species, forms an independent photosynthetic lineage with V. brassicaformis, and both are closely related to peridinin‐containing dinoflagellates and nonphotosynthetic apicomplexans; both also show phylogenetic closeness with red algal plastids. We have utilized gas chromatography/mass spectrometry to identify two free sterols, 24‐ethylcholest‐5‐en‐3β‐ol, and a minor unknown sterol which appeared to be a C28:4 compound. We have also used RNA Seq analysis to identify seven genes found in the nonmevalonate/methylerythritol pathway (MEP) for sterol biosynthesis. Subsequent genome analysis of V. brassicaformis showed the presence of two mevalonate (MVA) pathway genes, though the genes were not observed in the transcriptome analysis. Transcripts from four genes (dxr, ispf, ispd, and idi) were selected and translated into proteins to study the phylogenetic relationship of sterol biosynthesis in V. brassicaformis and C. velia to other groups of algae and apicomplexans. On the basis of our genomic and transcriptomic analyses, we hypothesize that the MEP pathway was the primary pathway that apicomplexans used for sterol biosynthesis before they lost their sterol biosynthesis ability, although contribution of the MVA pathway cannot be discounted.
Biannual otolith‐zone formation of young shallow‐water hake Merluccius capensis in the northern Benguela: age verification using otoliths sampled by a top predator
Authors: Wilhelm M. R. , Roux J. ‐P. , Moloney C. L. , Jarre A.
Published: May 2015

Otoliths collected at least monthly from scat samples of Cape fur seals Arctocephalus pusillus are used to show that shallow‐water hake Merluccius capensis from the northern Benguela develop three translucent zones in their first 1·5 years of life. The novel sampling approach provided otoliths that belonged to four M. capensis cohorts of approximate known age (hatched in 1996, 1998, 2002 and 2005), allowing age verification. Following spawning in austral winter, translucent zones consistently formed first in summer and autumn (T1), then in winter and spring (T2) and again in summer and autumn (T3), with no difference in appearance of the zones (biannuli) for the four cohorts considered. The second translucent zone is usually the first true annulus (year mark). It forms during July to September in fish of 15–20 cm total length (LT). Formation of the translucent zones appears to be determined by fish length or age, rather than by exogenous cues. It is suggested that length measurements should be used to help determine the first age group; fish with a translucent zone marked at otolith lengths >7·5 mm should be termed 1 year‐old fish. Ages of M. capensis used in previous stock assessment models have been overestimated. Biannuli are an unusual occurrence in fish otoliths in general, but have been observed in other Merluccius species.
Import‐based Indicator for the Geopolitical Supply Risk of Raw Materials in Life Cycle Sustainability Assessments
Authors: Gemechu Eskinder D. , Helbig Christoph , Sonnemann Guido , Thorenz Andrea , Tuma Axel
Published: May 2015

There is a growing concern over the security and sustainable supply of raw material among businesses and governments of developed, material‐intensive countries. This has led to the development of a systematic analysis of risk incorporated with raw materials usage, often referred as criticality assessment. In principle, this concept is based on the material flow approach. The potential role of life cycle assessment (LCA) to integrate resource criticality through broadening its scope into the life cycle sustainability assessment (LCSA) framework has been discussed within the LCA communities for some time. In this article, we aim at answering the question of how to proceed toward integration of the geopolitical aspect of resource criticality into the LCSA framework. The article focuses on the assessment of the geopolitical supply risk of 14 resources imported to the seven major advanced economies and the five most relevant emerging countries. Unlike a few previous studies, we propose a new method of calculation for the geopolitical supply risk, which is differentiated by countries based on the import patterns instead of a global production distribution. Our results suggest that rare earth elements, tungsten, antimony, and beryllium generally pose high geopolitical supply risk. Results from the Monte Carlo simulation allow consideration of data uncertainties for result interpretation. Issues concerning the consideration of the full supply chain are exemplarily discussed for cobalt. Our research broadens the scope of LCA from only environmental performance to a resource supply‐risk assessment tool that includes accessibility owing to political instability and market concentration under the LCSA framework.
Life Cycle Impacts of Natural Fiber Composites for Automotive Applications: Effects of Renewable Energy Content and Lightweighting
Authors: Boland Claire S. , De Kleine Robb , Keoleian Gregory A. , Lee Ellen C. , Kim Hyung Chul , Wallington Timothy J.
Published: May 2015

This study examines the life cycle energy demand and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with substituting natural cellulose and kenaf in place of glass fibers in automotive components. Specifically, a 30 wt% glass‐fiber composite component weighing 3 kilograms (kg) was compared to a 30 wt% cellulose fiber composite component (2.65 kg) and 40 wt% kenaf fiber composite component (2.79 kg) for six cars, crossovers, and sport utility vehicles. The use‐phase fuel consumption of the baseline and substitute components, with and without powertrain resizing, were determined using a mass‐induced fuel consumption model based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency test records. For all vehicles, compared to the baseline glass fiber component, using the cellulose composite material reduced life cycle energy demand by 9.2% with powertrain resizing (7.2% without) and reduced life cycle GHG emissions by 18.6% with powertrain resizing (16.3% without), whereas the kenaf composite component reduced energy demand by 6.0% with powertrain resizing (4.8% without) and GHG emissions by 10.7% with powertrain resizing (9.2% without). For both natural fiber components, the majority of the life cycle energy savings is realized in the use‐phase fuel consumption as a result of the reduced weight of the component.
Rotenone affects p53 transcriptional activity and apoptosis via targeting SIRT1 and H3K9 acetylation in SH‐SY5Y cells
Authors: Feng Ya , Liu Te , Dong Su‐Yan , Guo Yan‐Jie , Jankovic Joseph , Xu Huaxi , Wu Yun‐Cheng
Published: May 2015

The protein deacetylase SIRT1 has been recognized to exert its protective effect by directly deacetylasing histone and many other transcriptional factors including p53. However, the effect of SIRT1 on p53 expression at the transcriptional level still remains to be elucidated. In this study, we found that rotenone treatment decreased cell viability, induced apoptosis, reduced SIRT1 level, and promoted p53 expression. Pre‐treatment with resveratrol, a SIRT1 activator, could attenuate rotenone‐induced cell injury and p53 expression, whereas down‐regulation of SIRT1 directly increased p53 expression. Moreover, chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments showed that SIRT1 bound to H3K9 within the p53 promoter region, and this binding resulted in decreased H3K9 acetylation and increased H3K9 tri‐methylation, thereby inhibiting p53 gene transcription. In conclusion, our data indicate that rotenone promotes p53 transcription and apoptosis through targeting SIRT1 and H3K9. This leads to nigrostriatal degeneration, the main pathogenic mechanism of motor features of Parkinson's disease.

image

SIRT1, a deacetylase enzyme, has neuroprotective effects for Parkinson's disease via targeting various factors. Resveratrol activated SIRT1 can target H3K9 and regulate p53 gene expression at the transcriptional level, thus inhibiting p53 transcription to enhance neuroprtoection, alleviating rotenone induced dopaminergic neurodegeneration. We think these findings should provide a new strategy for the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
No association between adherence to the healthy Nordic food index and cardiovascular disease amongst Swedish women: a cohort study
Authors: Roswall N. , Sandin S. , Scragg R. , Löf M. , Skeie G. , Olsen A. , Adami H.‐O. , Weiderpass E.
Published: May 2015

Background

In several intervention trials, a healthy Nordic diet showed beneficial effects on markers of cardiovascular disease. We investigated the association between a healthy Nordic diet and clinical diagnosis of cardiovascular disease.

Objective

Our aim was first to examine the association between a healthy Nordic food index (wholegrain bread, oatmeal, apples/pears, root vegetables, cabbages and fish) and the incidence of overall cardiovascular disease (ischaemic heart disease, stroke, arrhythmia, thrombosis and hypertensive disease), and secondly to test for possible effect modification by smoking, body mass index (BMI), alcohol consumption and age.

Methods

We conducted an analysis of data from the prospective Swedish Women's Lifestyle and Health cohort, including 43 310 women who completed a food frequency questionnaire in 1991–1992, and followed up until 31 December 2012 through Swedish registries. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

During follow‐up, 8383 women developed cardiovascular disease. We found no association between the healthy Nordic food index and overall cardiovascular disease risk or any of the subgroups investigated. There was a statistically significant interaction with smoking status (P = 0.02), with a beneficial effect only amongst former smokers (HR 0.96, 95% CI 0.94–0.99 per 1‐point increment).

Conclusion

The present results do not support an association between a healthy Nordic food index and risk of cardiovascular disease in Swedish women. There was also no effect modification by alcohol intake, BMI or age. Our finding of an interaction with smoking status requires reproduction.
Age‐Related Cortical Thickness Reduction in Non‐Demented Down's Syndrome Subjects
Authors: Romano Andrea , Cornia Riccardo , Moraschi Marta , Bozzao Alessandro , Chiacchiararelli Laura , Coppola Valeria , Iani Cristina , Stella Giacomo , Albertini Giorgio , Pierallini Alberto
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the characteristic pattern of age‐related cortical thinning in patients with Down Syndrome (DS), as assessed by MRI and automatic cortical thickness measurements.

METHODS

Ninety‐one non‐demented subjects with DS (range 11–53 years) were examined using a 1.5 T scanner. MRI‐based quantification of cortical thickness was performed using FreeSurfer software package., The Pearson product‐moment correlation coefficient between age and mean cortical thickness was evaluated for all subjects participating in the study.

RESULTS

A significant negative correlation between cortical thickness and age was found bilaterally in the frontal, temporal, parietal and cingulate gyrus. Specific investigation of cerebral lobes showed a more evident involvement of the frontal one, compared to others. Moreover, the age related reduction of cortical thickness appeared to be more significant and rapid in patients between 20 and 30 years of age.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings showed that Down Syndrome subjects are affected by a diffuse cortical thinning. The involvement of cortical structures can be observed at an earlier age than previous studies have reported.
Nerve Ultrasound in Peripheral Neuropathies: A Review
Authors: Kerasnoudis Antonios , Tsivgoulis Georgios
Published: May 2015

ΑBSTRACT

Peripheral neuropathies are one of the most common reasons for seeking neurological care in everyday practice. Electrophysiological studies remain fundamental for the diagnosis and etiological classification of peripheral nerve impairment. The recent technological development though of high resolution ultrasound has allowed the clinician to obtain detailed structural images of peripheral nerves. Nerve ultrasound mainly focuses on the evaluation of the cross sectional area, cross sectional area variability along the anatomical course, echogenity, vascularity and mobility of the peripheral nerves. An increase of the cross sectional area, hypervascularity, disturbed fascicular echostructure and reduced nerve mobility are some of the most common findings of entrapments neuropathies, such as the carpal or cubital tunnel syndrome. Both the cross‐sectional area increase and the hypervascularity detected with the Doppler technique seem to correlate significantly with the clinical and electrophysiological severity of the later mononeuropathies. Significantly greater cross sectional area values of the clinically affected cervical nerve root are often detected in cases of cervical radiculopathy. In such cases, the ultrasound findings seem also to correlate significantly with disease duration. On the other hand, multifocal cross sectional area enlargement of cervical roots and/or peripheral nerves is often documented in cases of immune‐mediated neuropathies. None of the later pathological ultrasound findings seem to correlate significantly with the electrophysiological parameters or the functional disability. The aim of this review is to provide a timely update on the role of neuromuscular ultrasound in the diagnostic of the most common entrapment and immune‐mediated peripheral neuropathies in clinical practice.
Measuringthe Performanceofthe Secondary Marketfor Life Insurance Policies
Authors: Giaccotto Carmelo , Golec Joseph , Schmutz Bryan P.
Published: May 2015

Abstract

We construct an index of life insurance policies purchased in the secondary market by viatical and life settlement companies. Using the repeat sales method to measure returns over our 1993–2009 sample period, we find that policy returns average about 8 percent annually compared to 5.5 percent for the S&P 500 and 7 percent for corporate bonds, but they are twice as volatile as the S&P and four times as volatile as bonds. Nevertheless, because the index return is relatively uncorrelated with stock or bond returns, life insurance policies make attractive additions to well‐diversified portfolios.
Homelessness and housing crises among individuals accessing services within a Canadian emergency department
Authors: Forchuk C. , Reiss J. P. , Mitchell B. , Ewen S. , Meier A.
Published: May 2015

Accessible summary

Studies have indicated that individuals who are homeless access hospital emergency departments more frequently and may have different needs than individuals who are housed.

Successful interventions have been developed and tested to reduce discharge to homelessness for psychiatric inpatients but have not been similarly tested for discharge from emergency departments. This study was developed to provide baseline data on this issue to inform future emergency department interventions.

Findings from the current study suggest that discharge from emergency departments to homelessness happens frequently in London, Canada. Participants are unlikely to spontaneously disclose their housing/homelessness issue when first entering the emergency department, which may result in services that do not adequately meet their complex needs.

Screening for housing issues is necessary within emergency departments and psychiatric crisis teams as housing issues may be a reason for accessing care or contribute to the presenting condition. Nurses are in an ideal position to evaluate housing needs among emergency department patients. Services outside of the emergency department are also needed to address housing issues, particularly outside of regular office hours.

Individuals who have mental health issues and are homeless or in housing crisis have been found to access emergency departments more frequently than individuals with stable housing. While emergency departments primarily focus on medical issues, homeless individuals may require psychosocial support as well. This study examined issues around housing crises and emergency department use for individuals with mental illness in Canada. Collecting baseline data about these issues is important to inform subsequent interventions. Administrative data from a hospital emergency department and psychiatric crisis service were collected, and five individuals accessing the emergency department for psychiatric reasons were interviewed. Results indicated that individuals with an identified housing crisis accessed the emergency department 930 times in 6 months. None of the interview participants identified housing as the primary reason for accessing the emergency department, but all noted that housing was a contributing stressor. Future research is needed to examine ways in which discharge to homelessness from emergency departments can be avoided and identify alternative services to address housing concerns, particularly for individuals with mental illness. Crisis service and emergency department staff, especially nurses, can play an important role in screening for housing issues and connecting individuals to outside services.
Phylogeographic insights of the lowland species Cheirolophus sempervirens in the southwestern Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Vitales Daniel , García‐Fernández Alfredo , Garnatje Teresa , Pellicer Jaume , Vallès Joan
Published: May 2015

The southwestern Iberian Peninsula is an important biogeographic region, showing high biodiversity levels and hosting several putative glacial refugia for European flora. Here, we study the genetic diversity and structure of the Mediterranean, thermophilous plant Cheirolophus sempervirens (Asteraceae) across its whole distribution range in SW Iberia, as a tool to disentangle some of the general biogeographic patterns shaping this southern refugia hotspot. Null genetic diversity was observed in the cpDNA sequencing screening. Nonetheless, AFLP data revealed high levels of among‐population genetic differentiation correlated to their geographic location. Our results suggest longer species persistence in southern Iberian refugia during glacial periods and subsequent founder effects northwards due to colonizations in warmer stages (i.e., the southern richness to northern purity pattern). Additionally, our phylogeographic analyses indicate the presence of two separate genetic lineages within Ch. sempervirens, supporting the hypothesis of multiple minor refugia for SW Iberia in agreement with the refugia within refugia model.
Dorsal Compressive Atlantoaxial Bands and the Craniocervical Junction Syndrome: Association with Clinical Signs and Syringomyelia in Mature Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Authors: Cerda‐Gonzalez S. , Olby N. J. , Griffith E. H.
Published: May 2015

Background

Dorsal compressive lesions at the atlantoaxial junction (ie, AA bands) occur in dogs with Chiari‐like malformations (CMs), but their clinical relevance is unclear.

Objective

Investigate the influence of AA bands on clinical status and syringomyelia (SM) in mature cavalier King Charles spaniels (CKCS).

Animals

Thirty‐six CKCS, 5–12 years of age, including 20 dogs with neuropathic pain.

Methods

Dogs were examined and assigned a neurologic grade. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the craniocervical junction was performed with the craniocervical junction extended and flexed (ie, normal standing position). Imaging studies were assessed for the presence of an AA band, CM, SM or some combination of these findings. Band and SM severity were quantified using an objective compression index and ordinal grading scale, respectively.

Results

Of 36 CKCS imaged, 34 had CM. Atlantoaxial bands were present in 31 dogs and were more prominent in extended than flexed positions. Syringomyelia was found in 26 dogs, 23 of which also had AA bands. Bands were associated with both the presence (P = .0031) and severity (P = .008) of clinical signs and SM (P = .0147, P = .0311, respectively). Higher compression indices were associated with more severe SM (P = .0137).

Conclusions

Prevalence of AA bands in older CKCS is high. Positioning of dogs in extension during MRI enhances the sensitivity of the study for detecting this important abnormality. There were significant associations among AA bands, clinical signs, and SM in dogs with CM; additional work is needed to understand whether or not this relationship is causal.