bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling the Effects of Extreme Drought on Pollutant Transport Processes in the Yangtze River Estuary
Authors: Yang Ye , Chen Xiaofeng , Li Yangyang , Xiong Ming , Shen Zhenyao
Published: June 2015

Water resources in the Yangtze River Estuary (YRE), which is the vital water supply for Shanghai, decreased by approximately 2.45 Gm3 in 2006, the second‐worst recorded drought year. A numerical model was developed to investigate the effects of this extreme drought on pollutant transport processes in the YRE. The model was calibrated against observations and displayed good agreement. Residence time, a critical hydrodynamic indicator, was implemented to indicate pollutant transport processes. Numerical experiments were conducted to examine the possibly drought‐induced influences. The model results demonstrated that the influences on pollutant transport processes varied spatially and temporally, and these influences could partly explain the observed temporal and spatial variations of total nitrate in 2006. The area most susceptible to drought is in the north branch with 2‐11 days' extension of residence time. As the drought occurred in both the high and normal water periods, its influences were more significant during the normal water period with saltwater intrusion into the north branch. The drought also introduced a pollutant transport lag in timescale of approximately five days by diminishing the seaward advection flux with freshwater discharge. In 2006, the magnified tidal influence during the drought contributed more than usual to structuring pollutant transport, as the pollutant transport processes were intensely associated with tidal flow and tidal cycle.
A Water Yield‐Oriented Practical Approach for Multifunctional Forest Management and its Application in Dryland Regions of China
Authors: Wang Yanhui , Xiong Wei , Gampe Stephan , Coles Neil Andrew , Yu Pengtao , Xu Lihong , Zuo Haijun , Wang Yunni
Published: June 2015

Mountainous forest areas are vitally important for water supply in dryland regions which suffer from high erosion risk and severe water shortage. Massive afforestation, mainly for erosion control, may reduce the water yield and threaten local water supply security. Moreover, many over‐dense forests due to a strict logging ban policy have produced remarkably negative impacts for both forests (e.g., low timber quality, restricted natural regeneration, and high stand instability) and water yield. To satisfy the rapidly increasing demands on water supply and other services, a practical approach for managing forest stands in a multifunctional way, which particularly addresses water yielding, is urgently required. For this purpose, we integrated the existing knowledge and experience, designed an “ideal” stand structure to represent multifunctional forest (MFF) and determined its key parameters (a ground coverage of >0.7, a canopy density around 0.7, and an H/DBH ratio (tree height [m] to the diameter at breast height [cm]) of <0.7). Moreover, a decision process for MFF stand management was recommended as: (1) investigating the site quality; (2) identifying the site‐specific main forest functions; (3) quantifying the stand structure; (4) diagnosing the stand structure by comparing with the “ideal” one; and (5) arranging the functions/structure‐oriented management measures. In this way, the water‐yielding function can be improved and meanwhile other forest functions can be promoted.
Beijing's Water Resources: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Wang Jianhua , Shang Yizi , Wang Hao , Zhao Yong , Yin Yin
Published: June 2015

Beijing's local water resources have been overexploited and the ecological and environmental pressures exceed the carrying capacity of this densely populated megacity. This article examines the current status of Beijing's water resources with respect to its industrial, residential, and eco‐environmental water usage and the challenges it may face in the near future. The article describes the context of water uses, the steps taken by Beijing to alleviate the water shortage problems, and challenges to Beijing's abilities to meet its urgent and future water needs. A multipronged strategy is proposed that aims at both the present problems and the anticipated future challenges. In particular, engineering and institutional approaches for Beijing's successful transition from overexploitation to sustainable utilization of water resources are explained. Actions include reasonable water utilization, water conservation, reclaimed wastewater, and importing water from neighboring areas. We conclude that Beijing must take additional steps in water resource management to ensure its sustainable development that involves continued urbanization sprawls and population growth. Future water resource management strategies should focus on strengthening water demand management through water conservation, efficient interbasin water transfers, use of nontraditional water resources, strategically reserving water supply, and promoting rehabilitation of the eco‐environments.
Changing the Course of Rivers in an Asian City: Linking Landscapes to Human Benefits through Iterative Modeling and Design
Authors: Vollmer Derek , Costa Diogo , Lin Ervine Shengwei , Ninsalam Yazid , Shaad Kashif , Prescott Michaela F. , Gurusamy Senthil , Remondi Federica , Padawangi Rita , Burlando Paolo , Girot Christophe , Grêt‐Regamey Adrienne , Rekittke Joerg
Published: June 2015

Concerns over water scarcity, climate change, and environmental health risks have prompted some Asian cities to invest in river rehabilitation, but deciding on the end goals of rehabilitation is a complex undertaking. We propose a multidisciplinary framework linking riparian landscape change to human well‐being, providing information relevant to decision makers, in a format that facilitates stakeholder involvement. We illustrate this through a case study of the densely settled, environmentally degraded, and flood prone Ciliwung River flowing through metropolitan Jakarta, Indonesia. Our methodology attempts to respond to this complexity through an iterative approach, strongly based on conceptualization and mathematical modeling. Nested hydrologic, hydrodynamic, and water quality models provide outputs at catchment‐, corridor‐, and localized site‐scales. Advanced 3‐D landscape modeling is used for procedural design and precise visualization of proposed changes and their impacts, as predicted by the mathematical models. Finally, participatory planning and design methods allow us to obtain critical stakeholder feedback in shaping a socially acceptable approach. Our framework aims at demonstrating that a change in paradigm in river rehabilitation is possible, and providing future scenarios that balance concerns over flooding, water quality, and ecology, with the realities of a rapidly growing megacity.
Surgical Anatomical Landmarks of the Thoracolumbar Vertebral Column on Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Dogs
Authors: Yeamans C. L. , Haley A. , Gutierrez‐Quintana R. , Penderis J.
Published: June 2015

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in veterinary medicine profoundly improved spinal cord disease investigation in canine patients. We aimed to further describe the anatomical landmarks of the thoracolumbar junction in sagittal MRI sequences. MRI studies from 90 dogs were reviewed retrospectively, representing a broad cross section of breeds and body weights. The ratio of the distance from the dorsal aspect of the vertebral canal to the dorsal aspect of the transverse process or rib articulation relative to the length of L2 vertebra was determined for T12, T13, L1 and L2 vertebrae. A statistically significant difference was noted with the transverse processes being more ventrally located than the cranial fovea costalis. The lumbar transverse processes and rib articulations dramatically varied in shape, being oval or round, respectively. The sagittal image at the level of the lateral margin of the articular facet joint proved to be the most consistent for review of these structures.
Global Value Chains: A View from the Euro Area
Authors: Amador João , Cappariello Rita , Stehrer Robert
Published: June 2015

This paper describes the main features of global value chains (GVC) between the euro area taken as a whole and other large world trade players like the USA, China and Japan, which also operate as monetary unions. In addition, the individual euro area countries' perspective is considered, with a specific focus on intra‐area linkages. The analysis is primarily based on the concept of foreign value added in exports, which is suitable to assess the pervasiveness of GVC. The paper uses the World Input–Output Database and covers the period 2000–2011, giving also some information on the sectoral dimension of production linkages. The paper concludes that GVC are important for the euro area as whole and there has been a rebound since the trade collapse in 2009. Moreover, there is a strong relevance of regional production linkages in Europe, with a large role for Germany and Central and Eastern European countries.
Global Value Chains of East Asia: Trade in Value Added and Vertical Specialization
Authors: Kwon Taehyun , Ryou Jai‐Won
Published: June 2015

East Asia is known for its high intra‐regional trade of intermediate goods and for its high inter‐regional export of final goods in the manufacturing sector. The present study analyzes how this pattern changed between 1995 and 2009, by focusing on the ratio of value added through export of the intermediate goods with respect to value added induced by total exports (VSI) and the ratio of domestic value added due to final demand of the trading partner relative to total exports to that region (VAX). Using our new index of vertical specialization, VSI, we examine the extent to which the rise of the Chinese economy has changed East Asia's role in the global value chain. Our analysis shows that an increasing visibility of China in the global production network has been accompanied by a higher share of intermediate exports, even though China's VSI ratio is still lower than that of Japan or Korea. Meanwhile, the VAX ratio has fallen for all three countries in pairwise trade with one another, much faster than in inter‐regional trade with other regions. Vertical specialization has progressed in the major exporting industries in China, Japan and Korea. This seems to reflect the strengthening ability of East Asia to create value added, in contrast to advanced countries in Europe and North America.
Offshoring, Inshoring and Labor Market Volatility
Authors: Foster‐McGregor Neil , Pöschl Johannes
Published: June 2015

Using sectoral data from the World Input‐Output Database, this paper considers the impact of offshoring and inshoring on the volatility of employment and wage growth. Our results indicate that inshoring has a positive impact on sectoral employment volatility, while offshoring has a negative impact. Additional results indicate that much of the positive volatility effect of inshoring is found to occur in countries in East Asia and the EU12, regions that are important destinations for offshoring activities. Conversely, the negative volatility effect of offshoring is found to occur mainly in EU15 and ‘Other’ countries, which consists of developed countries that are relatively intensive offshorers. We also present results to suggest that firms smooth employment fluctuations by offshoring, and that such smoothing tends to be concentrated on low‐educated and medium‐educated workers.
Summary Measure for Price and Non‐price Competitiveness for ASEAN+3
Authors: Beņkovskis Konstantīns , Wörz Julia
Published: June 2015

In this paper we apply a comprehensive measure that allows us to distinguish price and non‐price aspects of competitiveness. Our measure is computationally demanding but has the advantage of building on a single data source of highly disaggregated trade data. We extend the methodology pioneered by Feenstra (1994), and Broda and Weinstein (2006), and construct an export price index that adjusts for changes in the set of competitors (variety) and changes in non‐price factors (quality in a broad sense) for six ASEAN members (the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam) plus China, Japan and Korea. Based on trade data from UN COMTRADE at the Harmonized System six‐digit level over the period 2000−2011, we find notable differences between price and non‐price competitiveness across markets. China and Vietnam show huge gains in international competitiveness due to non‐price factors, while we observe some deterioration in the non‐price competitiveness of Japan and Singapore. However, these relative developments do not reflect the existing differences in the absolute levels of the quality of exported goods by those countries.
Industry‐Level Competitiveness, Productivity and Effective Exchange Rates in East Asia
Authors: Ito Keiko , Shimizu Junko
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we investigate export competitiveness based on unit labor costs (ULC) and nominal effective exchange rates for Japan, China and Korea for 12 manufacturing industries at the two‐digit International Standard Industrial Classification level for the period 2001–2009. Japan's ULC are relatively stable or declining in most industries, while Korea's ULC show an upward trend in many industries, with the electrical and optical equipment industry being a major exception. China's ULC are declining in most industries. Evaluating ULC on a foreign currencies basis, Japan's ULC increased rapidly during the period of yen appreciation, suggesting that Japan's cost reduction efforts were more than offset by the appreciation of the yen. The results of our empirical analysis suggest that both increases in ULC and appreciation of the home currency reduce exports by raising the home country's relative prices. The negative impact of ULC is largest for China, while it is negligible for Japan. However, the negative impact of nominal effective exchange rates is largest for Japan. Moreover, the negative impact of ULC tends to be larger for machinery‐related industries, suggesting that cost competitiveness is particularly important in these industries.
The Associations Between Socioeconomic Status, Caregivers' Depressive Symptoms, Children's Health‐Promoting Behavior, and Children's Physical Health: A Mediation Model
Authors: Yoo Joan P. , Chung Grace H. , Lee Sang‐Gyun
Published: June 2015

The aim of this study was to examine the mediating effects of children's health‐promoting behaviors on the association between socioeconomic status, caregivers' depressive symptoms, and children's physical health outcomes. We used the first wave of “Seoul Education and Health Welfare Panel.” Data were collected from 820 fourth‐grade elementary and first‐year middle school students and their caregivers using self‐administered surveys. Structural equation modeling was employed to analyze the mediating effects of health‐promoting behaviors. Bias‐corrected bootstrap confidence intervals were used to test the mediating effect. The results showed that both low socioeconomic status and caregivers' depressive symptoms were negatively associated with a child's health‐promoting behaviors. Children's health‐promoting behaviors were positively associated with physical health. However, children's physical health was not significantly associated with socioeconomic status but was marginally associated with caregivers' depressive symptoms. We found that children's health‐promoting behaviors significantly mediated associations between both socioeconomic status and children's physical health and between caregivers' depressive symptoms and children's physical health. Based on the findings, we suggest the development and implementation of school‐based, health‐enhancement programs as a means to improve the general health of all children and to reduce health inequalities.
British Pharmacological Society, 5th Focused Meeting on Cell Signalling: Matters arising …
Authors: Willars Gary B , Tobin Andrew B , Challiss R A John
Published: June 2015

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on 5th BPS Focused Meeting on Cell Signalling. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2015.172.issue‐13
Giving, Saving, Spending: What Would Children Do with £1 Million?
Authors: Power Sally , Smith Kevin
Published: June 2015

This article explores children's responses to a single question: ‘If someone gave you £1 million today, what would you do with it?’ Although such an exploration might seem trivial, we argue that their responses provide important insights into children's values and priorities. One‐third intend to spend it all, one quarter to save it. But the largest group claim that they would give all or some of the money away. Their responses highlight the divergent ways in which children use money to foster particular forms of social relations and social standing. Against the prevalent discourse of consumer society, the dominant theme of giving may indicate that the individualism of neoliberalism is less pervasive than is often feared, but also suggest that further research is needed into the social contexts and processes which encourage children to be ‘givers’, ‘savers’ or ‘spenders’.
Compound MQA, a Caffeoylquinic Acid Derivative, Protects Against NMDA‐Induced Neurotoxicity and Potential Mechanisms In Vitro
Authors: Tian Xing , An Li , Gao Ling‐Yue , Bai Jun‐Peng , Wang Jian , Meng Wei‐Hong , Ren Tian‐Shu , Zhao Qing‐Chun
Published: June 2015

Aims

Compound MQA (1,5‐O‐dicaffeoyl‐3‐O‐[4‐malic acid methyl ester]‐quinic acid) is a natural derivative of caffeoylquinic acid isolated from Arctium lappa L. roots. However, we know little about the effects of MQA on the central nervous system. This study aims to investigate the neuroprotective effects and underlying mechanisms of MQA against the neurotoxicity of N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA).

Methods and Results

Pretreatment with MQA attenuated the loss of cell viability after SH‐SY5Y cells treated with 1 mM NMDA for 30 min by MTT assay. Hoechst 33342 and Annexin V‐PI double staining showed that MQA inhibited NMDA‐induced apoptosis. In addition to preventing Ca2+ influx, the potential mechanisms are associated with increases in the Bcl‐2/Bax ratio, attenuation of cytochrome c release, caspase‐3, caspase‐9 activities, and expressions. Also, MQA inhibited NMDA‐induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2, p38, and JNK1/2. Furthermore, deactivation of CREB, AKT, and GSK‐3β, upregulation of GluN2B‐containing NMDA receptors (NMDARs), and downregulation of GluN2A‐containing NMDARs were significantly reversed by MQA treatment. Computational docking simulation indicates that MQA possesses a well affinity for NMDARs.

Conclusion

The protective effects of MQA against NMDA‐induced cell injury may be mediated by blocking NMDARs. The potential mechanisms are related with mitochondrial apoptosis, ERK‐CREB, AKT/GSK‐3β, p38, and JNK1/2 pathway.
Modulation of mTOR Activity by μ‐Opioid Receptor is Dependent upon the Association of Receptor and FK506‐Binding Protein 12
Authors: Wang Yan , Ge Yan‐Hui , Wang Yan‐Xia , Liu Ting , Law Ping‐Yee , Loh Horace H. , Chen Hong‐Zhuan , Qiu Yu
Published: June 2015

Aims

Mechanistic/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) activation by μ‐opioid receptor (OPRM1) participates in antinociceptive tolerance, hyperalgesia, and physical dependence. Our previous study also showed that mTOR activation by OPRM1 could attenuate β amyloid oligomers‐induced neurotoxicity. OPRM1 is demonstrated to interact with FK506‐binding protein 12 (FKBP12). It is our great interest to investigate whether OPRM1‐mediated mTOR signaling is related to receptor‐FKBP12 association.

Methods

The activities of mTOR and its downstream effector p70 S6K were measured by immunoblotting their phosphorylation status. The interaction of receptor with mTOR was detected by co‐immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence.

Results

OPRM1 activation by morphine‐induced time‐dependent mTOR activation. PI3K‐specific inhibitor LY294002 only blocked the late phase of mTOR activation. However, morphine‐induced mTOR activation was totally blocked at all time points in cells expressing FKBP12 association‐deficient mutant receptor. FKBP12 knockdown also blocked morphine‐induced mTOR activation. Further analysis demonstrated that morphine treatment enhanced the association of receptor with phosphorylated mTOR, whereas decreased association was observed after FKBP12 knockdown, mTOR inhibition or in cells expressing FKBP12 association‐deficient mutant.

Conclusions

OPRM1‐FKBP12 association played a key role in OPRM1‐mediated mTOR activation, which could underlie the mechanisms of multiple physiological and pathological processes. Thus, our findings provide new avenue to modulating these processes.
808. CYMBIDIUM WENSHANENSE
Authors: Cribb Phillip , Schuiteman André
Published: June 2015

Cymbidium wenshanense Y.S. Wu & F.Y. Liu, a very rare species from Yunnan is discussed and illustrated. Though only recently described (in 1990), it is already threatened in the wild by over‐collecting. Fortunately it is well‐established in cultivation and can be propagated by seed.
809. ANGRAECUM PLATYCORNU
Authors: Hermans Johan
Published: June 2015

The history, taxonomy, pollination and cultivation of Angraecum platycornu Hermans, P. J. Cribb & J. Bosser, an interesting new species from Madagascar is discussed. A description is provided.
810. BOBARTIA INDICA
Authors: Duncan Graham
Published: June 2015

The South African rush‐lily Bobartia indica L. is a rhizomatous, evergreen perennial endemic to fynbos of the south‐western Cape. A description and details of its history, taxonomy, distribution, habitat and cultivation are provided, accompanied by habitat photographs.
811. WATSONIA STRICTIFLORA
Authors: Duncan Graham
Published: June 2015

The critically endangered South African geophyte Watsonia strictiflora Ker Gawl. is a narrow endemic of clay flats and hillsides east of Cape Town in the Western Cape. A description and details of its history, taxonomy, pollination biology and cultivation are provided, accompanied by habitat photographs.
812. IRIS SCHELKOWNIKOWII
Authors: Rix Martyn , Garakhani Parvana , Selimov Resad , Strange Kit
Published: June 2015

Iris schelkownikowii (Fomin) Fomin, a little‐known species from Azerbaijan in section Oncocyclus, is described and illustrated. Suggestions for its cultivation are given.
813. DISCOCALYX DISSECTA
Authors: Drinkell Clare , Ensoll Andrew
Published: June 2015

Discocalyx dissecta Kaneh. & Hatus. is described and illustrated. Details of its discovery, habitat and cultivation are provided.
814. VARRONIA RUPICOLA
Authors: Hamilton Martin , Clubbe Colin , Corcoran Marcella , Sanchez Michele
Published: June 2015

Varronia rupicola (Urb.) Britton (Boraginaceae) a Critically Endangered shrub, restricted to three Caribbean islands – Puerto Rico, Vieques and Anegada—is described and illustrated. Its conservation status and distribution are reviewed.
A validation study of a modified Bouchard activity record that extends the concept of ‘uptime’ to Rett syndrome
Authors: Lor Leon , Hill Kylie , Jacoby Peter , Leonard Helen , Downs Jenny
Published: June 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the validity of using a Bouchard activity record (BAR) in individuals with Rett syndrome to measure physical activity, as compared with pragmatic criterion standard measures of walking status and step counts recorded using the StepWatch activity monitor (SAM).

Method

During the waking hours of 1 day, 43 females (mean age 21y, SD 9y) wore a SAM whilst a proxy completed a modified BAR. Responses to the BAR were compared among participants, who were grouped according to walking status, using the Mann–Whitney two‐sample rank‐sum test. Relationships were sought between BAR responses and step counts using linear regression.

Results

According to the proxy‐reported BAR responses, those who needed assistance with walking spent more time sitting (median [interquartile range] 9h 15min [8h 8min–10h 30min] vs 6h 15min [4h 15min–8h 30min]; p<0.001) and less time standing (1h [38min–1h 30min] vs 2h 15min [45min–3h 45min]; p=0.04) than those who could walk independently. In those who could walk independently, time classified as ‘uptime’ (standing and walking) using the BAR was associated with increased step count (r2=0.58; p<0.001).

Interpretation

These data support the validity of proxy‐reported BAR responses. In those who could walk independently, uptime, classified using the BAR, could be used to estimate daily step count. This tool offers an inexpensive method for clinicians to gain insights into physical activity levels in individuals with Rett syndrome.
First‐line Bismuth‐containing Five‐day Concomitant Quintuple Therapy for Helicobacter Pylori Eradication
Authors: Dolapcioglu Can , Sayiner Mehmet , Akkus Esra Elif , Kural Abdulaziz , Dolapcioglu Hatice , Dabak Resat , Ahishali Emel
Published: June 2015

Background

Widespread use of antibiotics has resulted in increased rates of antibiotic resistance and decreased rates of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication, leading to a search for newer therapeutic options. This study aimed to examine the efficacy, tolerability, and patient compliance of a first‐line bismuth‐containing 5‐day concomitant quintuple therapy.

Materials and Methods

This prospective study included 144 eradication treatment naïve H. pylori positive patients with dyspeptic complaints. Patients received the following concomitant quintuple therapy for 5 days: bismuth subcitrate 300 mg q.i.d, omeprazole 20 mg b.i.d, clarithromycin 500 mg b.i.d., amoxicillin 1 g b.i.d., and metronidazole 500 mg t.i.d. Eradication was assessed with H. pylori stool antigen test or urea‐breath test 6 weeks after the completion of therapy.

Results

Treatment compliance rate in this study was 97.2%. Intention to treat and per‐protocol eradication rates were 134/144 (93.1%, 95% CI, 88.9–97.2) and 134/140 (95.7%, 95% CI, 92.2–98.6), respectively. Side effect was reported by 8.5% of the patients that attended follow‐up visits, including epigastric pain (2.8%), nausea/vomiting (2.1%), diarrhea (1.4%), taste disturbance (1.4%), and fatigue (0.7%).

Conclusions

Bismuth‐containing, short course, quintuple concomitant therapy appears to be an effective and safe therapeutic option for the first‐line H. pylori eradication, particularly in populations with high resistance.
The effect of dimethyl fumarate on gene expression and the level of cytokines related to different T helper cell subsets in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with psoriasis
Authors: Tahvili Sahar , Zandieh Basira , Amirghofran Zahra
Published: June 2015

Background

Fumaric acid esters such as dimethyl fumarate (DMF) have proven to be effective in the treatment of psoriasis.

Objectives

In view of the role of Th17 in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, the present study was conducted to investigate the effects of DMF on Th1, Th2, and Th17 responses in patients.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from psoriasis patients and healthy individuals and were cultured in the presence or absence of phytohemagglutinin and DMF. The cell supernatants were removed to measure cytokine secretion, and the lymphocytes were used for real‐time polymerase chain reaction to establish gene expression.

Results

An increase in gene expression of interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ), as a marker for Th1 activity, and interleukin‐17 (IL‐17), granulocyte macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) and IL‐22 representing the Th17 subset in the PBMCs of patients in comparison with those of control subjects was observed. Culture of PBMCs from psoriasis patients and controls in the presence of DMF decreased IFN‐γ and increased IL‐4 gene expression in both groups. Treatment with DMF could significantly decrease IL‐17, GM‐CSF, and IL‐22 mRNA levels in the PBMCs of patients. Decreased release of IFN‐γ and GM‐CSF cytokine secretion after DMF treatment was also observed in PBMC cultures of patients and controls.

Conclusions

These data show the effectiveness of DMF in modulating Th17 cells in addition to Th1/Th2 cells and reflect one of the underlying mechanisms of action of DMF in psoriasis. These findings may also support the possible benefits of using fumarate in the treatment of other autoimmune diseases in the pathogeneses of which Th1 and Th17 cells play major roles.
Anxiety after Stroke: Time for an Intervention
Authors: Chun Ho-Yan Yvonne , Whiteley William N. , Carson Alan , Dennis Martin , Mead Gillian E.
Published: June 2015

Anxiety is common and persistent after stroke, and is associated with a poorer quality of life. Guidelines from numerous countries, including the United Kingdom, recommend screening for poststroke emotional problems. Anxiety is a priority for the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, stroke charities, and stroke survivors in the United Kingdom. Yet there is little evidence to guide the management of anxiety after stroke. New evidence-based interventions are needed to improve the care of poststroke anxiety.
‘TIDieR-ing up’ the Reporting of Interventions in Stroke Research: The Importance of Knowing What is in the ‘Black Box'
Authors: Hoffmann Tammy C. , Walker Marion F.
Published: June 2015

Evidence-based interventions cannot be provided unless there is a clear understanding of what the intervention is. Many published randomized trials, systematic reviews, and guidelines contain incomplete intervention descriptions. For non-pharmacological interventions, such as stroke rehabilitation, the reporting is particularly poor. Contributors to this problem include lack of attention to this issue and awareness of what constitutes a complete intervention description by authors, reviewers, journals, and editors. Part of the solution is for authors to follow guidance about how to describe interventions, such as the Template for Intervention Description and Replication statement. Improving stroke interventions reporting will remove one of the current barriers to evidence-based care.
HEROIC FICTION, COMBAT SCENES, AND THE SCHOLARLY RECONSTRUCTION OF ARCHAIC GREEK WARFARE
Authors: ECHEVERRÍA FERNANDO
Published: June 2015

Combat scenes depicted on vases are a critical source for the reconstruction of Greek warfare in the archaic period. They are the subject of a lively debate over their accuracy and reliability as historical sources, and the degree to which they represent historical ways of fighting among archaic Greeks has been questioned. A particularly common argument used to question, or even in some cases, to reject some scenes as potential sources is to identify them as depicting ‘archaizing’ and/or ‘heroizing’ topics, that is, images drawn from a legendary past or from the myths. This scepticism has often been based on the identification of a few elements in the pictures which have traditionally been regarded as belonging to myth or to a period prior to the introduction of the phalanx. It is shown here that an examination of both these specific elements and the larger combat scenes in the light of new theories about the phalanx and the hoplite in the archaic period offer fresh grounds for analysis.
Clinical and molecular features and therapeutic perspectives of spinal muscular atrophy with respiratory distress type 1
Authors: Vanoli Fiammetta , Rinchetti Paola , Porro Francesca , Parente Valeria , Corti Stefania
Published: June 2015

Spinal muscular atrophy with respiratory distress (SMARD1) is an autosomal recessive neuromuscular disease caused by mutations in the IGHMBP2 gene, encoding the immunoglobulin μ‐binding protein 2, leading to motor neuron degeneration. It is a rare and fatal disease with an early onset in infancy in the majority of the cases. The main clinical features are muscular atrophy and diaphragmatic palsy, which requires prompt and permanent supportive ventilation. The human disease is recapitulated in the neuromuscular degeneration (nmd) mouse. No effective treatment is available yet, but novel therapeutical approaches tested on the nmd mouse, such as the use of neurotrophic factors and stem cell therapy, have shown positive effects. Gene therapy demonstrated effectiveness in SMA, being now at the stage of clinical trial in patients and therefore representing a possible treatment for SMARD1 as well. The significant advancement in understanding of both SMARD1 clinical spectrum and molecular mechanisms makes ground for a rapid translation of pre‐clinical therapeutic strategies in humans.
Modified Tunnel Technique Combined with Enamel Matrix Derivative: A Minimally Invasive Treatment for Single or Multiple Class I Recession Defects
Authors: Vincent‐Bugnas Séverine , Charbit Yves , Lamure Julie , Mahler Patrick , Dard Michel M.
Published: June 2015

Purpose

Gingival recession is a significant problem in the esthetic zone. Connective tissue grafts have been considered the gold standard, but they need a donor site that increases morbidity and discomfort for the patient.The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the clinical results of a modified tunnel technique that consists of replacing the connective tissue graft by enamel matrix derivative, in the treatment of Miller Class I recession defects.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐six teeth in 14 subjects with Miller Class I recessions were treated using the tunnel procedure plus enamel matrix derivative. The gingival recession, probing depth, clinical attachment level, and the width of the keratinized gingival tissue were recorded.

Results

There was a statistically significant reduction in gingival recession (88% of root coverage) and a gain in clinical attachment level (3.1 mm) between baseline and 24 months post‐operatively, whereas the change in width of keratinized tissue and in probing depth was not statistically significant. All patients were satisfied with the esthetic appearance and would undergo the same surgery again.

Conclusion

This technique could be successfully used as an alternative to connective tissue grafts, with the advantage of avoiding the discomfort and morbidity of connective tissue harvesting.

Clinical Significance

This modified tunnel technique using enamel matrix derivative potentially represents a clinically and esthetically satisfactory treatment of Miller Class I recession defects.
EFFECT OF BANK MONITORING ON EARNINGS MANAGEMENT OF THE BORROWING FIRM: AN EMPIRICAL INVESTIGATION
Authors: Jha Anand , Shankar Siddharth , Prakash Arun
Published: June 2015

The literature on bank monitoring posits that strong bank monitoring can either increase or decrease the earnings management of the borrowing firm. We test these two competing hypotheses and find that earnings management (measured by the absolute value of the discretionary accruals) is higher when monitoring is strong—unless the firm is close to default. This result suggests that it might not be appropriate to view bank monitoring as always curbing corporate misbehavior. Our findings are based on examining 22,526 financial statements of private and public firms in India between 2001 and 2009.
SKEWNESS AND THE ASYMMETRY IN EARNINGS ANNOUNCEMENT RETURNS
Authors: Blau Benjamin M. , Pinegar J. Michael , Whitby Ryan J.
Published: June 2015

Much of traditional asset pricing theory rests on the assumption of normality in the distribution of stock returns. A growing body of research suggests that skewness in the return distributions can affect asset prices. In this article we attempt to empirically identify factors that influence return skewness. Consistent with the theoretical literature, we find that prices during the postearnings announcement period are more convex for firms that have tighter short‐sale constraints and for firms that experience greater disagreement among investors. Perhaps more important, we also find that price convexity is a key determinant in the skewness of stocks.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND CAPITAL STRUCTURE DYNAMICS: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY
Authors: Liao Li‐Kai (Connie) , Mukherjee Tarun , Wang Wei
Published: June 2015

Consistent with theoretical predictions, we find that both a higher level of financial leverage and a faster speed of adjustment of leverage toward the shareholders' desired level are associated with better corporate governance quality as defined by a more independent board featuring CEO–chairman separation and greater presence of outside directors, coupled with larger institutional shareholding. In contrast, managerial incentive compensation on average discourages use of debt or adjustments toward the shareholders' desired level, consistent with its entrenchment effect. The effect of corporate governance on leverage adjustments is most pronounced when initial leverage is between the manager's desired level and the shareholders' desired level where the interests of managers and shareholders conflict.
A NEW PERSPECTIVE ON DIRECTOR BUSYNESS
Authors: Liu Chang , Paul Donna L.
Published: June 2015

We provide a new perspective to the multiple directorships literature, which focuses on outside directors. Inside directors, however, are important in both the boardroom and day‐to‐day operations of the firm. We find that any negative effect of director busyness is more pervasive for inside directors than for outside directors. Additional analysis reveals that bidding firms' acquisition announcement returns are decreasing in inside director board appointments, but there is no such effect for outside directors. These results highlight the importance of inside directors and demonstrate that firm performance can be compromised when they sit on multiple boards.
CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES AND HETEROGENEITY OF INVESTOR BELIEFS
Authors: Jiao Jie , Yan An
Published: June 2015

We conjecture that convertibles can better attract investors with different beliefs about a firm's future cash flows compared to straight bonds and stocks. Our empirical findings are consistent with this conjecture. We find that a firm is more likely to issue convertibles rather than seasoned stocks and straight bonds in the public markets when investors' beliefs are more heterogeneous. The positive effect of heterogeneous beliefs on the relative likelihood of convertibles is greater when investors are more optimistic. Overall, our findings provide a novel rationale based on investors' heterogeneous beliefs for the use of convertibles in corporate external financing decisions.
Self‐Reported Hearing Status Is Associated with Lower Limb Physical Performance, Perceived Mobility, and Activities of Daily Living in Older Community‐Dwelling Men and Women
Authors: Mikkola Tuija M. , Polku Hannele , Portegijs Erja , Rantakokko Merja , Rantanen Taina , Viljanen Anne
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To explore the associations between self‐reported hearing problems and physical performance and self‐reported difficulties in mobility and activities of daily living (ADLs) in community‐dwelling older adults.

Design

Cross‐sectional cohort study.

Setting

Community.

Participants

Men and women aged 75 to 90 (N = 848).

Measurements

Structured face‐to‐face interviews to assess perceived hearing problems in the presence of noise, mobility difficulties (moving indoors, stair‐climbing, 0.5‐km walk, 2‐km walk), and difficulties in ADLs and instrumental ADLs. The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) was administered. Age; years of education; cognitive functioning; and self‐reported cardiac, circulatory, and locomotor diseases were used as covariates.

Results

Persons who reported major hearing problems had a lower SPPB total score than those who reported good hearing (mean 9.8 vs 10.9, P = .009), indicating poorer performance, and more difficulties in ADLs (mean 1.8 vs 1.4, P = .002) and IADLs (mean 4.6 vs 3.4, P = .002), after controlling for covariates. They were also more likely to have more difficulty in stair‐climbing (odds ratio (OR) = 2.8, P < .001) and walking 2 km (OR = 2.1, P = .003) and tended to have more difficulty in walking 0.5 km (OR = 1.7, P = .05) but not moving indoors (P = .18). Persons who reported only some hearing problems did not differ from those who reported good hearing in any of the variables studied.

Conclusion

Perceived major hearing problems in older adults may contribute to poorer lower limb performance and difficulties in mobility and ADLs. Longitudinal studies are needed to determine whether poor hearing is a risk factor for decline in physical performance.
Hospice Care in Assisted Living Facilities Versus at Home: Results of a Multisite Cohort Study
Authors: Dougherty Meredith , Harris Pamela S. , Teno Joan , Corcoran Amy M. , Douglas Cindy , Nelson Jackie , Way Deborah , Harrold Joan E. , Casarett David J.
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To compare residents of assisted living facilities receiving hospice with people receiving hospice care at home.

Design

Electronic health record–based retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Nonprofit hospices in the Coalition of Hospices Organized to Investigate Comparative Effectiveness network.

Participants

Individuals admitted to hospice between January 1, 2008, and May 15, 2012 (N = 85,581; 7,451 (8.7%) assisted living facility, 78,130 (91.3%) home).

Measurements

Hospice length of stay, use of opioids for pain, and site of death.

Results

The assisted living population was more likely than the home hospice population to have a diagnosis of dementia (23.5% vs 4.7%; odds ratio (OR) = 13.3, 95% confidence interval (CI)  = 12.3–14.4; P < .001) and enroll in hospice closer to death (median length of stay 24 vs 29 days). Assisted living residents were less likely to receive opioids for pain (18.1% vs 39.7%; OR = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.29–0.39, P < .001) and less likely to die in an inpatient hospice unit (9.3% vs 16.1%; OR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.49–0.58, P < .001) or a hospital (1.3% vs 7.6%; OR = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.13–0.19, P < .001).

Conclusion

Three are several differences between residents of assisted living receiving hospice care and individuals living at home receiving hospice care. A better understanding of these differences could allow hospices to develop guidelines for better coordination of end‐of‐life care for the assisted living population.
Risk of Injury in Older Adults Using Gastrointestinal Antispasmodic and Anticholinergic Medications
Authors: Spence Michele M. , Karim Fatima A. , Lee Eric A. , Hui Rita L. , Gibbs Nancy E.
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To determine the risk of injury associated with gastrointestinal (GI) antispasmodic and anticholinergic use in elderly adults.

Design

Retrospective case–control study.

Setting

Integrated healthcare system.

Participants

Healthcare system members aged 65 and older (N = 260,010; 54,152 cases, 205,858 controls).

Measurements

Cases were identified as individuals with an injury resulting in a hospitalization, emergency department, or urgent care visit (index date) from January 2009 through December 2010. Cases and controls were matched in a 1:4 ratio based on age and sex. GI antispasmodic and anticholinergic current and past exposure for cases and controls was evaluated. Individuals were classified as current users if the days’ supply of the GI prescription overlapped the index date and past users if the days’ supply ended more than 60 days before the index date. Duration of use for current users was analyzed for short‐ and long‐term use. Conditional logistic regression produced adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Of the total population, 1,068 (0.4%) had current exposure to a GI antispasmodic or anticholinergic (302 (0.6%) cases, 766 (0.4%) controls). Current users had a small but significantly greater risk of injury than nonusers (OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.01–1.34, P = .03). Past use was not significantly different from no use. Short‐term users had a significantly greater risk of injury (OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.01–1.70, P = .04) than nonusers. Long‐term use was associated with greater risk, but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Older adults using GI antispasmodic and anticholinergic drugs have greater risk of injury. These findings support recommendations to limit the prescribing of GI antispasmodics and anticholinergics in elderly adults.
Frailty Before Critical Illness and Mortality for Elderly Medicare Beneficiaries
Authors: Hope Aluko A. , Gong Michelle N. , Guerra Carmen , Wunsch Hannah
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To estimate the effect of pre‐intensive care unit (ICU) health categories on mortality during and after critical illness, focusing specifically on the effect of pre‐ICU frailty on short‐ and long‐term mortality.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Medicare claims data from 2004 to 2008.

Participants

A nationally representative sample of elderly Medicare beneficiaries admitted to an ICU in 2005.

Measurements

Participants were classified into four pre‐ICU health categories (robust, cancer, chronic organ failure, frailty) using claims data from the year before admission, allowing for assignment to multiple categories. The association between pre‐ICU health category and hospital and 3‐year mortality was assessed using multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

Of 47,427 elderly individuals in the ICU, 18.8% were robust, 28.6% had cancer, 68.1% had chronic organ failure, and 34.0% were frail; 41.3% qualified for multiple categories. Overall hospital mortality was 12.6%, with the lowest mortality for robust participants (9.7%). Participants with pre‐ICU frailty had higher hospital mortality than those with the same pre‐ICU health categories without frailty. (Adjusted odds ratios ranged from 1.27 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10–1.47) to 1.52 (95% CI = 1.35–1.63).) Robust hospital survivors had the lowest 3‐year mortality (24.6%). Pre‐ICU frailty conferred higher 3‐year mortality than pre‐ICU categories without frailty. (Adjusted hazard ratios ranged from 1.54 (95% CI = 1.45–1.64) to 1.84 (95% CI = 1.70–1.99).)

Conclusion

Critically ill elderly adults can be categorized according to pre‐ICU health categories. These categories, particularly pre‐ICU frailty, may be important for understanding risk of death during and after critical illness.
Trends in Tuberculosis Cases Among Nursing Home Residents, California, 2000 to 2009
Authors: Chitnis Amit S. , Robsky Katherine , Schecter Gisela F. , Westenhouse Janice , Barry Pennan M.
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To examine trends in tuberculosis (TB) incidence and to compare demographic and clinical characteristics of nursing home (NH) residents and community‐dwelling older adults.

Design

Prospective TB surveillance.

Setting

TB cases reported in California from 2000 to 2009.

Participants

TB patients aged 65 and older.

Measurements

Trends in TB incidence per 100,000 population were assessed using Poisson regression. Demographic and clinical characteristics were compared using the chi‐square or Wilcoxon rank‐sum test. Among NH residents, risk factors for death during TB treatment were identified using logistic regression.

Results

From 2000 to 2009, TB incidence rates decreased significantly, from 15.9/100,000 to 8.4/100,000 (−44%, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −66% to −7%) for NH residents and from 21.2/100,000 to 15.0/100,000 (−27%, 95% CI = −29% to −24%) for community‐dwelling older adults. Overall, 211 TB cases among NH residents and 6,518 cases among community‐dwelling older adults were reported. NH residents were more likely than community‐dwelling older adults to be older (median age 81 vs 75, P < .001), have a negative acid‐fast bacilli sputum smear and positive culture (37% vs 28%, P < .001), and die while undergoing TB treatment (44% vs 14%, P < .001), and were less likely to have a positive tuberculin skin test (TST) (28% vs 44%, P < .001) and have TB care provided by a health department (20% vs 59%, P < .001). In multivariable analysis, NH residents who had a positive TST were less likely to die while undergoing TB treatment (odds ratio = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.16–0.96).

Conclusion

TB incidence rates were lower, and reductions in incidence were greater among NH residents; community‐dwelling older adults had higher TB rates and smaller reductions in incidence. Interventions that promote timely detection and treatment of TB infection and disease may be needed to reduce morbidity and mortality among NH residents.