bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scaling mangrove aboveground biomass from site‐level to continental‐scale
Authors: Rovai A. S. , Riul P. , Twilley R. R. , Castañeda‐Moya E. , Rivera‐Monroy V. H. , Williams A. A. , Simard M. , Cifuentes‐Jara M. , Lewis R. R. , Crooks S. , Horta P. A. , Schaeffer‐Novelli Y. , Cintrón G. , Pozo‐Cajas M. , Pagliosa P. R.
Published: December 2015

Aim

We developed a set of statistical models to improve spatial estimates of mangrove aboveground biomass (AGB) based on the environmental signature hypothesis (ESH). We hypothesized that higher tidal amplitudes, river discharge, temperature, direct rainfall and decreased potential evapotranspiration explain observed high mangrove AGB.

Location

Neotropics and a small portion of the Nearctic region.

Methods

A universal forest model based on site‐level forest structure statistics was validated to spatially interpolate estimates of mangrove biomass at different locations. Linear models were then used to predict mangrove AGB across the Neotropics.

Results

The universal forest site‐level model was effective in estimating mangrove AGB using pre‐existing mangrove forest structure inventories to validate the model. We confirmed our hypothesis that at continental scales higher tidal amplitudes contributed to high forest biomass associated with high temperature and rainfall, and low potential evapotranspiration. Our model explained 20% of the spatial variability in mangrove AGB, with values ranging from 16.6 to 627.0 t ha−1 (mean, 88.7 t ha−1). Our findings show that mangrove AGB has been overestimated by 25–50% in the Neotropics, underscoring a commensurate bias in current published global estimates using site‐level information.

Main conclusions

Our analysis show how the ESH significantly explains spatial variability in mangrove AGB at hemispheric scales. This finding is critical to improve and explain site‐level estimates of mangrove AGB that are currently used to determine the relative contribution of mangrove wetlands to global carbon budgets. Due to the lack of a conceptual framework explicitly linking environmental drivers and mangrove AGB values during model validation, previous works have significantly overestimated mangrove AGB; our novel approach improved these assessments. In addition, our framework can potentially be applied to other forest‐dominated ecosystems by allowing the retrieval of extensive databases at local levels to generate more robust statistical predictive models to estimate continental‐scale biomass values.
Mineralization ratios of nitrogen and phosphorus from decomposing litter in temperate versus tropical forests
Authors: Marklein Alison R. , Winbourne Joy B. , Enders Sara K. , Gonzalez David J. X. , van Huysen Tiff L. , Izquierdo Jorge E. , Light Derrick R. , Liptzin Daniel , Miller Kimberley E. , Morford Scott L. , Norton Robert A. , Houlton Benjamin Z.
Published: December 2015

Aim

Terrestrial ecosystems sequester about 25% of anthropogenic CO2emissions annually; however, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) limitation of plant productivity and microbial functioning could curtail this key ecosystem service in the future. Our aim is to address variations in nutrient resupply during decomposition – especially whether theN:Pratio of nutrient recycling via mineralization varies within and across diverse forest biomes.

Location

Global forest ecosystems.

Methods

We compiled data onin situlitter decomposition experiments (leaf, wood and root) from the primary literature to examine the relationships between netNandPmineralization across temperate versus tropical forests world‐wide. We define net nutrient mineralization ratios as the averageN:Preleased from decomposing substrates at a given ecosystem site.

Results

We show that netNandPmineralization are strongly correlated within biomes, suggesting strong coupling betweenNandPrecycling in forest ecosystems. The netN:Pof leaf‐litter mineralization is higher in tropical forests than in temperate forests, consistent with latitudinal patterns in foliar and leaf‐litterN:P. At the global scale, theN:Pof net mineralization tracks, but tends to be lower than that of litterN:P, pointing to preferentialP(versusN) mineralization in forest ecosystems.

Main conclusions

Our results do not support the view that there is a single, globally consistent mineralizationN:Pratio. Instead, our results show that theN:Pof net mineralization can be predicted by theN:Pof litter, offering a method for incorporatingPinto global‐scale models of carbon–nutrient–climate interactions. In addition, these results imply thatPis scarce relative to microbial decomposer demands in tropical forests, whereasNandPmay be more co‐limiting when compared with microbial biomass in the temperate zone.
Family history and its relationship with dementia stigma beliefs among Chinese Americans
Authors: Woo Benjamin KP
Published: December 2015

Aim

It is known that Chinese Americans associate dementia with stigma and “loss of face.” However, further research is required to provide a more complete picture of the extent and nature of stigma in Chinese Americans with family histories of dementia (FHD). The present study examined whether FHD are associated with quantitative measures of stigma in Chinese Americans.

Methods

A total of 300 Chinese Americans in two health seminars answered a 15‐item, true/false questionnaire to assess their beliefs toward dementia. Two groups were dichotomized and compared based on FHD.

Results

Both groups subscribed to moderately stigmatizing views about dementia. Our findings showed that the group with FHD was more likely to disclose having relatives with dementia. However, this group was also more likely to perceive patients with dementia to be incapable of feeling other people's worries or concerns at once.

Conclusions

Strategies to decrease stigma toward dementia are required. Cultural interventions must also extend into the Chinese American general public to reduce stigma of dementia. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 122–125.
Impact of multidimensional poverty on the self‐efficacy of older people: Results from an Australian longitudinal study
Authors: Callander Emily J , Schofield Deborah J
Published: December 2015

Aims

Self‐efficacy has numerous benefits for active and healthy aging, including giving the people the ability to make positive changes to their living standards and lifestyles. The present study aims to determine whether falling into multidimensional poverty lowers self‐efficacy.

Methods

Longitudinal analysis of waves 7–11 (2007–2011) of the nationally representative Household, Income and Labor Dynamics in Australia survey using linear regression models. The analysis focused on the Australian population aged 65 years and older. The Freedom Poverty Measure was used to identify those in multidimensional poverty.

Results

Those who fell into multidimensional poverty for 3 or 4 years between 2007 and 2011 had their self‐efficacy scores decline by an average of 27 points (SD 21.2). Those who fell into poverty had significantly lower self‐efficacy scores in 2011 – up to 57% lower (−66.6%, −45.7% P < 0.0001) after being in multidimensional poverty for 3 or 4 years between 2007 and 2011 than those who were never in poverty.

Conclusions

Falling into multidimensional poverty lowers the self‐efficacy scores of older people. In order to improve the chances of older people making long‐term changes to improve their living standards, feelings of self‐efficacy should first be assessed and improved. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 308–314.
Autophagy is required for efficient meiosis progression and proper meiotic chromosome segregation in fission yeast
Authors: Matsuhara Hirotada , Yamamoto Ayumu
Published: December 2015

Autophagy is a conserved intracellular degradation system, which contributes to development and differentiation of various organisms. Yeast cells undergo meiosis under nitrogen‐starved conditions and require autophagy for meiosis initiation. However, the precise roles of autophagy in meiosis remain unclear. Here, we show that autophagy is required for efficient meiosis progression and proper meiotic chromosome segregation in fission yeast. Autophagy‐defective strains bearing a mutation in the autophagy core factor gene atg1, atg7, or atg14 exhibit deformed nuclear structures during meiosis. These mutant cells require an extracellular nitrogen supply for meiosis progression following their entry into meiosis and show delayed meiosis progression even with a nitrogen supply. In addition, they show frequent chromosome dissociation from the spindle together with spindle overextension, forming extra nuclei. Furthermore, Aurora kinase, which regulates chromosome segregation and spindle elongation, is significantly increased at the centromere and spindle in the mutant cells. Aurora kinase down‐regulation eliminated delayed initiation of meiosis I and II, chromosome dissociation, and spindle overextension, indicating that increased Aurora kinase activity may cause these aberrances in the mutant cells. Our findings show a hitherto unrecognized relationship of autophagy with the nuclear structure, regulation of cell cycle progression, and chromosome segregation in meiosis.
Effects of Pb on Thermal Stability and Crystallization Kinetics of GeS2–Sb2S3–PbS Glasses
Authors: Yang Guang , Xia Fang , He Xiaoyan , Wen Jianfeng , Chen Guorong
Published: December 2015

Effects of Pb on thermal stability and crystallization kinetics of chalcogenide glasses (1−x)(0.85GeS2−0.15Sb2S3)−xPbS (x = 0–0.4) have been carried out by a detailed calorimetric study and structural analysis. The glass stability was assessed based on three criteria, while the activation energies of crystallization were calculated under nonisothermal crystallization conditions by the Kissinger method, the Augis/Bennett method, the Mahadevan method, and the modified Ozawa method, respectively. Both stability criteria and activation energies of crystallization suggest that the glasses possess excellent thermal stability. The thermal stability decreases with addition of PbS but is insensitive to the content of PbS in the range from x = 0.1 to 0.4. Raman, XRD, and molar volume structural characterization suggested that the excellent thermal stability of these glasses is due to the glass former role of PbS. The calculated Avrami exponent pointing to a 3‐dimensional crystallization mechanism which explains the reason for the previously reported successful preparation of infrared transmitting chalcogenide glass‐ceramics.
Trichodynia: a review of the literature
Authors: Rebora Alfredo
Published: December 2015

Trichodynia designates a painful sensation on the scalp sometimes reported by patients with hair loss. Its best description dates back to 1960, when Sulzberger et al. (Arch Dermatol 1960; 81: 556–560) reported it in a proportion of women complaining of an unexplained diffuse alopecia. Sulzberger et al.'s remark that trichodynia may also be circumscribed (“spotty”) is an important detail missed by most ensuing observers. Women are mostly affected or, at least, more likely to report it. The quality and intensity vary greatly, the “burning” variety being most severe. Whether trichodynia is prevalent in telogen effluvium or it may also be present in androgenetic alopecia remains a crucial question. Hairs shed only from painful sites, and this observation suggests that the severity of trichodynia is directly related to hair shedding and intensity. Trichodynia seems to be related to the release of substance P and is present in alopecia areata. Both observations suggest that peripilar inflammation may be a causative agent.
Small molecule mediated inhibition of RORγ‐dependent gene expression and autoimmune disease pathology in vivo
Authors: Banerjee Daliya , Zhao Linlin , Wu Lan , Palanichamy Arumugam , Ergun Ayla , Peng Liaomin , Quigley Catherine , Hamann Stefan , Dunstan Robert , Cullen Patrick , Allaire Norm , Guertin Kevin , Wang Tao , Chao Jianhua , Loh Christine , Fontenot Jason D.
Published: December 2015

Retinoic acid receptor‐related orphan nuclear receptor γ (RORγ) orchestrates a pro‐inflammatory gene expression programme in multiple lymphocyte lineages including T helper type 17 (Th17) cells, γδ T cells, innate lymphoid cells and lymphoid tissue inducer cells. There is compelling evidence that RORγ‐expressing cells are relevant targets for therapeutic intervention in the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Unlike Th17 cells, where RORγ expression is induced under specific pro‐inflammatory conditions, γδ T cells and other innate‐like immune cells express RORγ in the steady state. Small molecule mediated disruption of RORγ function in cells with pre‐existing RORγ transcriptional complexes represents a significant and challenging pharmacological hurdle. We present data demonstrating that a novel, selective and potent small molecule RORγ inhibitor can block the RORγ‐dependent gene expression programme in both Th17 cells and RORγ‐expressing γδ T cells as well as a disease‐relevant subset of human RORγ‐expressing memory T cells. Importantly, systemic administration of this inhibitor in vivo limits pathology in an innate lymphocyte‐driven mouse model of psoriasis.
The trade‐off between clutch size and egg mass in tree swallowsTachycineta bicoloris modulated by female body mass
Authors: Pellerin Stéphanie , Paquette Sébastien Rioux , Pelletier Fanie , Garant Dany , Bélisle Marc
Published: December 2015

Egg production is a costly component of reproduction for female birds in terms of energy expenditure and maternal investment. Because resources are typically limited, clutch size and egg mass are expected to be constrained, and this putative trade‐off between offspring number and size is at the core of life history theory. Nevertheless, empirical evidence for this trade‐off is equivocal at best, as individual heterogeneity in resource acquisition and allocation may hamper the detection of the negative correlation between egg number and mass within populations. Here, we investigated how female body mass and landscape composition influences clutch size, egg mass, and the relationship between these two traits. To do so, we fitted linear mixed models using data from tree swallowsTachycineta bicolorbreeding in a network of 400 nestboxes located along a gradient of agricultural intensity between 2004 and 2011. Our dataset comprised 1463 broods for clutch size analyses and 4371 eggs (from 847 broods laid between 2005–2008) for egg mass analyses. Our results showed that agricultural intensity negatively impacted clutch size, but not egg mass nor the relationship between these two traits. Female mass, on the other hand, modulated the trade‐off between clutch size and egg mass. For heavier females, both traits increased jointly, without evidence of a trade‐off. However, for lighter females, there was a clear negative relationship between clutch size and egg mass. This work shows that accounting for individual heterogeneity in body mass allows the detection of a clutch size/egg mass trade‐off that would have remained undetected otherwise. Identifying habitat and individual effects on resource allocation towards reproductive traits may help bridging the gap between predictions from theory and empirical evidence on life history trade‐offs.
Individual repeatability in laying behaviour does not support the migratory carry‐over effect hypothesis of egg‐size dimorphism in Eudyptes penguins
Authors: Morrison Kyle W.
Published: December 2015

Penguins of the genus Eudyptes are unique among birds in that their first‐laid A‐egg is 54–85% the mass of their second‐laid B‐egg. Although the degree of intra‐clutch egg‐size dimorphism varies greatly among the seven species of the genus, obligate brood reduction is typical of each, with most fledged chicks resulting from the larger B‐egg. Many authors have speculated upon why Eudyptes penguins have evolved and maintained a highly dimorphic 2‐egg clutch, and why it is the first‐laid egg that is so much smaller than the second, but only recently has a testable, proximate mechanism been proposed. In most species of Eudyptes penguins females appear to initiate egg‐formation at sea during return migration to breeding colonies. In macaroni penguins E. chrysolophus, females with a shorter pre‐laying interval ashore (and thus presumably greater overlap between migration and egg‐formation) lay more dimorphic eggs, suggesting a physiological conflict may constrain growth of the earlier‐initiated A‐egg. This migratory carry‐over effect hypothesis (MCEH) was tested in eastern rockhopper penguins E. chrysocome filholi on Campbell Island, New Zealand, by recording the arrival and lay dates, body sizes, and egg masses of transponder‐tagged females over two years. Females with longer pre‐laying intervals laid less dimorphic clutches, as predicted by the MCEH. However, repeated measures of individual females revealed that within‐individual variation in egg‐size dimorphism between years was unrelated to within‐individual variation in pre‐laying interval. Egg masses, and to a lesser extent egg‐size dimorphism, were highly repeatable traits related to body size and body mass. These results and a detailed consideration of the MCEH suggest that egg‐size dimorphism in Eudyptes penguins is unlikely to be caused by a migratory carry‐over effect.
Chemical labels differ between two closely related shearwater taxa
Authors: Gabirot Marianne , Raux Lucille , Dell'Ariccia Gaia , Bried Joel , Ramos Raül , González‐Solís Jacob , Buatois Bruno , Crochet Pierre‐André , Bonadonna Francesco
Published: December 2015

Chemical signals may be the basis of interspecific recognition and speciation in many animals. To test whether a chemical label allowing recognition between closely related species exists in seabirds, we investigated two closely related taxa breeding sympatrically at some localities: Cory's and Scopoli's shearwaters. Procellariiform seabirds are ideal for this study because they have a well‐developed olfactory system and unequalled associated capabilities among birds. We analysed and compared the relative volatile compounds composition of the uropygial gland secretions of Cory's and Scopoli's shearwaters. As the volatile components from uropygial secretions might also provide some critical eco‐chemical information about population origin and sex, we also examined variations in the volatile compounds between populations and sexes in Cory's shearwater. The chemical data were obtained using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry techniques looking for the presence of these three particular labels: species, population and gender. We found diagnostic differences in uropygial secretions between the two species of shearwaters and smaller but significant variation between populations of Cory's shearwater in the Atlantic. No significant differences were observed between males and females. Individuals might thus use the chemical variation between species to recognize and mate with conspecifics, especially at localities where both species breed sympatrically. Geographical variation in chemical composition of uropygial secretions suggests that selective forces might vary according to locality, and might represent a key in the species recognition. Further behavioural bioassays are needed to determine whether or not these species labels are signals allowing reproductive isolation between these two taxa. Finally, one of the aims of our study was to test easier methods than freezing for storing uropygial gland secretions in the field. We describe here a new possibility for the storage of uropygial secretion samples at ambient temperature in the field, providing an alternative, simple protocol for the sampling of avian chemosignals.
Experimental exposure to trace metals affects plumage bacterial community in the feral pigeon
Authors: Chatelain M. , Frantz A. , Gasparini J. , Leclaire S.
Published: December 2015

Bacteria are fundamental associates of animals, and recent studies have highlighted their major role in host behaviour, immunity or reproductive investment. Thus, any environmental factor modifying bacterial community may affect host fitness. In birds, trace metals emitted by anthropogenic activities accumulate onto the plumage where they may alter bacterial community and ultimately affect bird fitness. Although trace metals are current major environmental issues in urban habitats, their effects on feather bacterial community have never been investigated. Here, we supplemented feral pigeonsColumba livia, an emblematic urban species, with zinc and/or lead in drinking and bath water. As expected, lead and zinc supplementations modified plumage bacterial community composition. Zinc decreased bacterial load, while lead decreased bacterial richness and the frequency of preening behaviour in birds, known to regulate feather bacteria. Our results demonstrate for the first time the effects of common urban trace metals on plumage bacterial community and shed light on one of the mechanisms by which trace metals can affect bird fitness. Further studies are now needed to investigate how this effect modulates avian life history traits known to depend on plumage bacterial community.
Galectin‐3 Predicts Left Ventricular Remodeling of Hypertension
Authors: Yao Yongwei , Shen Dongli , Chen Rong , Ying Chunyang , Wang Chenghua , Guo Junfang , Zhang Guohui
Published: December 2015

Previous studies have suggested that galectin‐3 is an important mediator of cardiac fibrosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the utility of galectin‐3 in identifying early left ventricular remodeling (LVRM) in patients with hypertension. A total of 107 patients with hypertension and 108 controls were enrolled in this study. The levels of galectin‐3 were significantly greater in hypertension patients with LVRM compared with those without LVRM. Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that body mass index and galectin‐3 were independent predictors of LVRM in the hypertension group. Only left ventricular mass was independently correlated with serum galectin‐3 levels in patients with hypertension. The receiver operating characteristic analysis showed an area under the curve for galectin‐3 of 0.698 (P<.001), with an optimal cutoff of 9.43 ng/mL. Therefore, galectin‐3 is independently correlated with LVRM and can be regarded as a valuable biomarker of early cardiac remodeling of hypertension.
Physician assistants in medical ward care: a descriptive study of the situation in the Netherlands
Authors: Timmermans Marijke J. C. , van Vught Anneke J. A. H. , Van den Berg Michiel , Ponfoort Erik D. , Riemens Frank , van Unen Jacco , Wobbes Theo , Wensing Michel , Laurant Miranda G. H.
Published: December 2015

Rationale, aims and objectives

Medical ward care has been increasingly reallocated from medical doctors (MDs) to physician assistants (PAs). Insight into their roles and tasks is limited. This study aims to provide insight into different organizational models of medical ward care, focusing on the position, tasks and responsibilities of the involved PAs and MDs.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional descriptive study 34 hospital wards were included. Characteristics of the organizational models were collected from the heads of departments. We documented provider continuity by examination of work schedules. MDs and PAs in charge for medical ward care (n = 179) were asked to complete a questionnaire to measure workload, supervision and tasks performed.

Results

We distinguished four different organizational models for ward care: medical specialists in charge of admitted patients (100% MS), medical residents in charge (100% MR), PAs in charge (100% PA), both MRs and PAs in charge (mixed PA/MR). The wards with PAs had the highest provider continuity. PAs spend relatively more time on direct patient care; MDs spend relatively more time on indirect patient care. PAs spend more hours on quality projects (P = 0.000), while MDs spend more time on scientific research (P = 0.030).

Conclusion

Across different organizational models for medical ward care, we found variations in time per task, time per bed and provider continuity. Further research should focus on the impact of these differences on outcomes and efficiency of medical ward care.
Treatment with geraniol ameliorates methionine‐choline‐deficient diet‐induced non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis in rats
Authors: Chen Jun , Fan Xiaoxia , Zhou Lin , Gao Xiaogang
Published: December 2015

Background and Aim:

Non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is one of the most common causes of chronic liver disease and is considered to be a causative factor of cryptogenic cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The aim of this work was to investigate whether treatment with geraniol (a monoterpene) attenuated NASH induced by methionine‐choline‐deficient (MCD) diet in rats.

Methods:

Rats were fed with MCD diet to induce NASH and treated with geraniol (200 mg/kg/day) for 10 weeks.

Results:

Treatment with geraniol reduced histological scores, fibrosis, and apoptosis in livers, lowered activities of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase in serum, and attenuated hepatic fat accumulation in rats fed with MCD diet. Treatment with geraniol preserved hepatic mitochondrial function, evidenced by reduced mitochondrial reactive oxygen species formation, enhanced adenosine triphosphate formation and membrane integrity, restored mitochondrial electron transport chain enzyme activity, and increased mitochondrial DNA content in rats fed with MCD diet. Treatment with geraniol reduced uncoupling protein 2 protein expression, and enhanced protein expression of prohibitin, mRNA expression of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptorα, and activity of mitochondrial carnitine palmitoyl transferase‐I in livers of rats fed with MCD diet. Treatment with geraniol abated oxidative stress, evidenced by reduced malondialdehyde and 3‐nitrotyrosine formation, enhanced activity of glutathione S‐epoxide transferase, and down‐regulated expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cytochrome P450 2E1 in livers of rats fed with MCD diet. Treatment with geraniol reduced myeloperoxidase activity and protein expression of tumor necrosis factor alpha and IL‐6 in livers of rats fed with MCD diet.

Conclusion:

Treatment with geraniol attenuated MCD‐induced NASH in rats.
Dietary assessment among women with overweight and obesity in early postpartum
Authors: Huseinovic E. , Winkvist A. , Bertz F. , Hellebö Johansson E. , Brekke H. K.
Published: December 2015

Background

The present study aimed to assess dietary intake and evaluate the degree of agreement of group‐level dietary intake as measured by 24‐h recall against a 4‐day diet record among postpartum women with overweight and obesity.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted of 110 Swedish women with a body mass index of ≥27 kg m−2at 6–15 weeks postpartum who were recruited to a weight loss trial and randomised to diet intervention or control. One 24‐h recall was conducted among all women prior to randomisation. In addition, women subsequently randomised to diet intervention also conducted a 4‐day diet record before receiving dietary treatment (n= 54). Paired tests were used to evaluate agreement of group‐level dietary intake as measured by 24‐h recall against 4‐day diet record among women randomised to diet intervention.

Results

Women reported a median (25th and 75th percentiles) energy intake of 9.1 (6.9, 11.7)MJday−1and an intake of fibre, vitamin D, folate and iron below the recommended intake as assessed by 24‐h recall prior to randomisation (n= 110). Group‐level median intakes of energy (9.9 versus 10.0MJday−1), fibre (21.9 versus 21.3 g day−1), vitamin D (4.8 versus 6.5 μg day−1), folate (296 versus 287 μg day−1), iron (11.0 versus 11.3 mg day−1) and calcium (915 versus 968 mg day−1) did not differ significantly between the methods; however, the record captured a higher energy‐adjusted intake of fat, saturated fat and alcohol, as well as a lower intake of carbohydrates, compared to the recall (n= 54).

Conclusions

We found no difference in group‐level estimates of energy or micronutrients between the recall and the record; however, there were some differences for macronutrients.
Localization of spots in FISH images of breast cancer using 3‐D shape analysis
Authors: LES T. , MARKIEWICZ T. , OSOWSKI S. , JESIOTR M. , KOZLOWSKI W.
Published: December 2015

The fluorescence in situ (FISH) belongs to the most often used molecular cytogenetic techniques, applied in many areas of diagnosis and research. The analysis of FISH images relies on localization and counting the red and green spots in order to determine HER2 status of the breast cancer samples. The algorithm of spot localization presented in the paper is based on 3‐D shape analysis of the image objects. The subsequent regions of the image are matched to the reference pattern and the results of this matching influence localization of spots. The paper compares different shapes of the reference pattern and their efficiency in spot localization. The numerical experiments have been performed on the basis of 12 cases (patients), each represented by three images. Few thousands of cells have been analysed. The quantitative analyses comparing different versions of algorithm are presented and compared to the expert results. The best version of the procedure provides the absolute relative difference to the expert results smaller than 3%. These results confirm high efficiency of the proposed approach to the spot identification. The proposed method of FISH image analysis improves the efficiency of detecting fluorescent signals in FISH images. The evaluation results are encouraging for further testing of the developed automatic system directed to application in medical practice.
Method for 3D fibre reconstruction on a microrobotic platform
Authors: HIRVONEN J. , MYLLYS M. , KALLIO P.
Published: December 2015

Automated handling of a natural fibrous object requires a method for acquiring the three‐dimensional geometry of the object, because its dimensions cannot be known beforehand. This paper presents a method for calculating the three‐dimensional reconstruction of a paper fibre on a microrobotic platform that contains two microscope cameras. The method is based on detecting curvature changes in the fibre centreline, and using them as the corresponding points between the different views of the images.

We test the developed method with four fibre samples and compare the results with the references measured with an X‐ray microtomography device. We rotate the samples through 16 different orientations on the platform and calculate the three‐dimensional reconstruction to test the repeatability of the algorithm and its sensitivity to the orientation of the sample. We also test the noise sensitivity of the algorithm, and record the mismatch rate of the correspondences provided.

We use the iterative closest point algorithm to align the measured three‐dimensional reconstructions with the references. The average point‐to‐point distances between the reconstructed fibre centrelines and the references are 20–30 μm, and the mismatch rate is low. Given the manipulation tolerance, this shows that the method is well suited to automated fibre grasping. This has also been demonstrated with actual grasping experiments.
Relationship between transient receptor potential vanilloid‐1 expression and the intensity of sensitive skin symptoms
Authors: Ehnis‐Pérez Adriana , Torres‐Álvarez Bertha , Cortés‐García Diego , Hernández‐Blanco Diana , Fuentes‐Ahumada Cornelia , Castanedo‐Cázares Juan Pablo
Published: December 2015

Background

Sensitive skin (SS) is a hyper‐reactive condition of the skin secondary to external factors, without objective signs of lesion. Its pathogenesis is still under investigation. Transient receptor potential vanilloid‐1 (TRPV1) is a cation channel that responds to low pH and is related to nociception, neurogenic inflammation, and pruritus.

Aims

To determine the expression of TRPV1 in subjects with SS and correlate it with the degree of symptoms and skin pigmentation.

Patients/Methods

We included 31 subjects self‐diagnosed as having SS. Colorimetric values were obtained for assessment of skin phototype, and the lactic acid stinging test (LAST) was performed. Two skin biopsies from the nasolabial fold of each volunteer were obtained. Qualitative analysis of TRPV1 was carried out with immunohistochemistry. Quantitative analysis of TRPV1 was carried out with qRT‐PCR.

Results

LAST was positive in 74% of the subjects, 56% of those having tan and brown skin. Immunohistochemistry staining for TRPV1 was greater in positive subjects (P = 0.03), but showed no correlation with the intensity of symptoms. Positive subjects also had higher TRPV1 mRNA expression compared to negative subjects (P < 0.001). This expression showed a positive correlation with the intensity of referred symptoms (R = 0.75, P < 0.001) and skin pigmentation (R = 0.63, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

TRPV1 expression is upregulated in subjects with sensitive skin, and it correlates with the intensity of the symptoms. Our findings suggest a role for this receptor in the pathogenesis of sensitive skin syndrome.
Relation between types of yolk sac abnormalities and early embryonic morphology in first‐trimester missed miscarriage
Authors: Ashoush Sherif , Abuelghar Wessam , Tamara Tarek , Aljobboury Dalia
Published: December 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to identify yolk sac (YS) abnormalities and analyze their relation with different embryonic morphologies detected by ultrasonography in first‐trimester missed miscarriage.

Material and Methods

This descriptive study was carried out on 204 women with established first‐trimester missed miscarriage. Ultrasonography depicted the YS's diameter, shape, and echogenicity, as well as the embryonic morphologic findings, including normal shape, isolated defects, and growth disorganization types 1 to 4. The findings were qualified and analyzed.

Results

Abnormalities in YS diameter were much more common than those in YS shape or echogenicity. YS with normal diameter constituted 30.9% of the cases, as opposed to a vast majority with normal shape and normal echogenicity (93.5% and 94.7%, respectively). YS of normal diameter, shape and echogenicity were most commonly (47.5%) associated with normal embryonic morphology. Absent YS was most commonly (75%) associated with growth disorganization type 1. Too‐small YS were most prevalent among normal embryos (44.8%) and type 1 growth disorganization embryos (27.6%). Cystic YS were mostly associated with isolated embryonic anomalies (36.8%).

Conclusions

This study found a significant relation between YS abnormalities and embryonic morphology in missed miscarriage cases. This was most evident with abnormalities in YS diameter rather than the YS shape or appearance. The commonest combinations met in our cases were growth disorganized 1 embryos with an absent YS, normal embryonic morphology with normal or small YS, and isolated embryonic defects with cystic YS.
Incidence of large for gestational age infants when gestational diabetes mellitus is diagnosed early and late in pregnancy
Authors: Boriboonhirunsarn Dittakarn , Kasempipatchai Vorama
Published: December 2015

Aims

To compare the incidence of large‐for‐gestational‐age (LGA) infants in women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) early and late in pregnancy, and evaluate associated factors.

Methods

A total of 284 women with GDM who commenced antenatal care before 20 weeks of gestation were enrolled: 142 were diagnosed before 20 weeks (early GDM) and 142 were diagnosed after 20 weeks of gestation after normal initial screening tests (late GDM). Incidence of LGA infants were compared. Factors associated with LGA and pregnancy outcomes were evaluated.

Results

Both groups had comparable baseline characteristics. The late GDM group were more likely to gain weight greater than recommended (P = 0.009) and less likely to have optimal glycemic control (P = 0.035). Incidences of maternal and neonatal complications, including LGA, were not significantly different between the groups. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the timing of GDM diagnosis was not significantly associated with LGA. Less gestational weight gain than recommended decreased the risk of LGA by 76% (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.09‐0.67, P = 0.007), while gestational weight gain greater than recommended doubled the risk of LGA (adjusted OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.03‐3.87, P = 0.041). Good glycemic control also reduced the risk of LGA by 66% (adjusted OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.16‐0.71, P = 0.886).

Conclusion

Gestational weight gain and glycemic control, but not timing of diagnosis, were independently associated with LGA in women with GDM. Women diagnosed with GDM early had similar rates of LGA infants as women diagnosed late.
Role of laparoscopy as a minimally invasive procedure in treatment of ruptured uterine scar during second‐trimester induction of abortion
Authors: Zheng Yanmei , Jiang Qiaoying , Lv Ya‐er , Liu Feng , Yang Liwei
Published: December 2015

Uterine rupture is an uncommon complication following termination of pregnancy and is usually accompanied by severe lower abdominal pain and shock caused by intra‐abdominal hemorrhage. Laparotomy should be carried out promptly in order to repair the uterus or even to resect the uterus. Here we present a case of uterine rupture of a scarred uterus, which occurred during a second‐trimester induced abortion. The patient was successfully treated by laparoscopy with the help of laparoscopic ultrasound. This case suggests an alternative, effective approach to the diagnosis and treatment of uterine rupture.
Making Sustainability Sustainable
Authors: Montabon Frank , Pagell Mark , Wu Zhaohui
Published: December 2015

The vast majority of research and practice regarding sustainable supply chains has followed an instrumental logic, which has led firms and supply chain managers to place economic interests ahead of environmental and social interests. Evidence that firms are attempting to become less unsustainable is mounting, but compensating practices such as offsetting a supply chain's negative impact on the environment and society do not create truly sustainable supply chains. This conceptual study seeks to move the field from the question of how can firms merely diminish environmental or social problems to how supply chains can become truly sustainable. To that end, we review the major weaknesses in previous logics and develop an Ecologically Dominant logic where environment and social interests supersede economic interests. To encourage a wider adoption of our perspective, the study illustrates how the Ecologically Dominant logic can advance practice and research. We do this by providing examples drawn from practice and our previous research and by offering propositions to encourage future research.
Predicting adult obesity from childhood obesity: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Simmonds M. , Llewellyn A. , Owen C. G. , Woolacott N.
Published: December 2015

A systematic review and meta‐analysis was performed to investigate the ability of simple measures of childhood obesity such as body mass index (BMI) to predict future obesity in adolescence and adulthood. Large cohort studies, which measured obesity both in childhood and in later adolescence or adulthood, using any recognized measure of obesity were sought. Study quality was assessed. Studies were pooled using diagnostic meta‐analysis methods. Fifteen prospective cohort studies were included in the meta‐analysis. BMI was the only measure of obesity reported in any study, with 200,777 participants followed up. Obese children and adolescents were around five times more likely to be obese in adulthood than those who were not obese. Around 55% of obese children go on to be obese in adolescence, around 80% of obese adolescents will still be obese in adulthood and around 70% will be obese over age 30. Therefore, action to reduce and prevent obesity in these adolescents is needed. However, 70% of obese adults were not obese in childhood or adolescence, so targeting obesity reduction solely at obese or overweight children needs to be considered carefully as this may not substantially reduce the overall burden of adult obesity.
Trends in child and adolescent obesity prevalence in economically advanced countries according to socioeconomic position: a systematic review
Authors: Chung A. , Backholer K. , Wong E. , Palermo C. , Keating C. , Peeters A.
Published: December 2015

Recent obesity trends in children and adolescents suggest a plateau. However, it is unclear whether such trends have been experienced across socioeconomic groups. We analysed whether recent trends in child and adolescent overweight and obesity differ by socioeconomic position (SEP) across economically advanced countries. Eligible studies reported overweight and obesity prevalence in children and/or adolescents (2–18 years), for at least two time points since 1990, stratified by SEP. Socioeconomic differences in trends in child and adolescent overweight and obesity over time were analysed. Differences in trends between SEP groups were observed across a majority of studies. Over half the studies indicated increasing prevalence among low SEP children and adolescents compared to a third of studies among children and adolescents with a high SEP. Around half the studies indicated widening socioeconomic inequalities in overweight and obesity. Since 2000 a majority of studies demonstrated no change or a decrease in prevalence among both high and low SEP groups. However around 40% of studies indicated widening of socioeconomic inequalities post‐2000. While our study provides grounds for optimism, socioeconomic inequalities in overweight and obesity continue to widen. These findings highlight the need for greater consideration of different population groups when implementing obesity interventions. © 2015 World Obesity
The impact of e‐car deployment on global crude oil demand
Authors: Unger Stephan
Published: December 2015

This paper investigates the impact of growing e‐car deployment on global crude oil demand, by determining the impact factors of total vehicles‐in‐use. It further sets out the impact on global fuel consumption and global crude oil demand. Both effects are compared with a benchmark scenario excluding e‐car deployment. A 25‐year simulation of the three different demand functions is performed and finds significant impact on fuel demand, but less significant impact on crude oil demand, since gasoline is just a partial fraction of crude oil and most of global crude oil demand depends on global economic development. The conclusion of this paper is that we find fuel demand to peak earliest in 2021, followed by a subsequent decline to today's levels, assuming that e‐car market share development follows a Rayleigh distribution. Based on a car manufacturer survey by KPMG, which indicates a 10 per cent e‐car market share in 10 years, the e‐car sales function is adapted to this estimation. At the same time, global crude oil demand is found to peak in 2025 in case of 10 per cent e‐car market share, in 2026 in the case of 8 per cent e‐car market share and in 2030 in case of a 6 per cent e‐car market share in 10 years. Until 2040, the increase in crude oil demand is found to be 25 per cent slower in the 10 per cent market share case, 20 per cent slower in the 8 per cent market share case and 15 per cent slower in the 6 per cent market share case than compared with global crude oil demand without any e‐cars deployed.
Experience, Seemings, and Evidence
Authors: Reiland Indrek
Published: December 2015

Many people have recently argued that we need to distinguish between experiences and seemings and that this has consequences for views about how perception provides evidence. In this article I spell out my take on these issues by doing three things.

First, I distinguish between meresensationslike seeing pitch black all around you andperceptual experienceslike seeing a red apple. Both have sensory phenomenology in presenting us with sensory qualities like colors, being analog in Dretske's sense, and being fine‐grained. However, only the latter have furthermore a perceptual phenomenology characterized by objectification and related dualities of perspectivality/completion and variation/constancy.

Second, I elaborate on the reasons for thinking thatbothmere sensations and perceptual experiences (= experiences) need to be distinguished from accompanyingseemingsthat passively assign things into conceptual categories and thereby tell you something about them. For example, when you look at a red apple and have the relevant recognitional abilities it will also normally seem to you that this is an apple.

Finally, I argue that the best version of the populardogmatistview about evidence is one which claims that it's neither experiences nor seemings by themselves, but rather the right sorts of composites of experiences and seemings that provide evidence.
The Epistemic Unity of Perception
Authors: Chudnoff Elijah , Didomenico David
Published: December 2015

Dogmatists and phenomenal conservatives think that if it perceptually seems to you that p, then you thereby have some prima facie justification for believing that p. Increasingly, writers about these views have argued that perceptual seemings are composed of two other states: a sensation followed by a seeming. In this article we critically examine this movement. First we argue that there are no compelling reasons to think of perceptual seemings as so composed. Second we argue that even if they were so composed, this underlying disunity in metaphysical or psychological structure would fall below the threshold of epistemic significance.
Indications and outcomes of an endoscopic approach under laparotomy for the treatment of bilioenteric anastomotic strictures
Authors: Tokodai Kazuaki , Kawagishi Naoki , Miyagi Shigehito , Nakanishi Chikashi , Hara Yasuyuki , Fujio Atsushi , Kashiwadate Toshiaki , Kanno Atsushi , Goto Hitoshi , Kamei Takashi , Ohuchi Noriaki
Published: December 2015

BAS is a potentially life‐threatening complication of LDLT. The aim of this study was to report on the indications and outcomes of an endoscopic approach under laparotomy being used in our institution to treat BAS after LDLT, using hepaticojejunostomy, for a small case series. Eighty‐three patients underwent an LDLT in our institution between 1991 and 2014. Retrospective chart review indicated that 10 of these patients developed BAS and were included in our analysis. The endoscopic approach under laparotomy was used in three patients who developed BAS 10 yr or more after their LDLT and in whom a percutaneous transhepatic approach and an endoscopic approach had failed. The course of recovery post‐operatively was unremarkable for two of the three patients who underwent the endoscopic approach under laparotomy. One patient required follow‐up laparotomy to treat a perforation of the bowel causing acute peritonitis. At follow‐up one yr post‐operatively, the stent tube was removed in two patients who recovered fully. The other patient had full recovery with the stent remaining in situ. The endoscopic approach under laparotomy could be a safe and promising option in the treatment of BAS to avoid surgical re‐anastomosis.