bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Red blood cell sodium transport in patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Henriksen Ulrik Lütken , Kiszka‐Kanowitz Marianne , Bendtsen Flemming , Henriksen Jens H.
Published: May 2015

Patients with advanced cirrhosis have abnormal sodium homoeostasis. The study was undertaken to quantify the sodium transport across the plasma membrane of red blood cells (RBC) in patients with cirrhosis. RBC efflux and influx of sodium were studied in vitro with tracer 22Na+ according to linear kinetics in 24 patients with cirrhosis and 14 healthy controls. The sodium efflux was modified by ouabain (O), furosemide (F) and a combination of O and F (O + F). RBC sodium was significantly decreased (4·6 versus control 6·3 mmol l−1, P<0·001) and directly related to serum sodium (r = 0·57, P<0·05). The RBC fractional sodium efflux was higher in patients with cirrhosis (+46%, P<0·01) compared to controls. Inhibition in both high (145 mmol l−1)‐ and low (120 mmol l−1)‐sodium buffers showed that the F‐insensitive sodium efflux was twice as high in cirrhosis as in controls (P = 0·03–0·007), especially the O‐sensitive, F‐insensitive efflux was increased (+ 225%, P = 0·01–0·006). Fractional F‐sensitive transport was normal in cirrhosis. RBC sodium influx was largely normal in cirrhosis. In conclusion, RBC sodium content is reduced in patients with cirrhosis with a direct relation to serum sodium. Increased RBC sodium efflux is especially related to ouabain‐sensitive, furosemide‐insensitive transport and thus most likely due to upregulated activity of the sodium–potassium pump. The study gives no evidence to an altered intracellular/extracellular sodium ratio or to a reduced fractional furosemide‐sensitive sodium transport in cirrhosis.
The effects of exercise training under mild hypoxic conditions on body composition and circulating adiponectin in postmenopausal women
Authors: Nishiwaki Masato , Kawakami Ryoko , Saito Kazuto , Tamaki Hiroyuki , Ogita Futoshi
Published: May 2015

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the effects of exercise training under mild hypoxic conditions on body composition and circulating adiponectin levels in postmenopausal women.

Methods

Fourteen postmenopausal women (56 ± 1 years) were assigned to a normoxic (N group) or hypoxic (H group) exercise group. Aquatic exercise training was performed at an intensity of 50% peak oxygen uptake level for 30 min per training session, 4 days per week, for 8 weeks. The H group performed the exercise under hypobaric hypoxic conditions, which corresponds to 2000 m above sea level, and each participant was exposed to these conditions for 2 h per session.

Results

After the training, no significant changes were observed in any of the measured values for the N group. Conversely, body mass (57·3 ± 2·5 to 54·5 ± 2·3 kg), body mass index (24·6 ± 0·8 to 23·4 ± 0·7 kg m−2), body fat (30·7 ± 1·9 to 28·1 ± 1·6%) and preperitoneal fat thickness as an index of visceral fat accumulation (10·3 ± 1·7 to 6·4 ± 1·0 mm) significantly reduced only in the H group. Circulating adiponectin levels significantly increased (9·5 ± 1·8 to 11·4 ± 2·0 μg ml−1), and the changes in adiponectin were significantly correlated with those in body mass (r = −0·81) and body mass index (r = −0·85).

Conclusions

These results suggest that exercise training under mild hypoxic conditions could more effectively reduce body fat and increase adiponectin levels in postmenopausal women in a shorter period, than exercise training in normoxia.
Q‐switched Nd:YAG laser treatment for labial lentigines associated with Peutz‐Jeghers syndrome
Authors: Ge Yiping , Jia Gaorong , Lin Tong
Published: May 2015

Background and objective

Labial lentigines associated with Peutz‐Jeghers syndrome are cosmetically disfiguring and distressful. Although multiple treatment modalities including Q‐switched ruby laser and Q‐switched alexandrite laser have been proposed, experience with Q‐switched Nd:YAG laser has been lacking. This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the efficacy and safety of Q‐switched Nd:YAG laser (532 nm) for labial lentigines in Peutz‐Jeghers syndrome.

Patients and methods

Demographic and clinical data of 11 patients diagnosed with Peutz‐Jeghers syndrome were analyzed. A quartile grading system was used. All patients were treated with a Q‐switched Nd:YAG laser system with the following parameters: wavelength 532 nm; spot size 3 mm; pulse duration 5–20 ns; fluence 1.8–2.2 J/cm2.

Results

After two to six (mean 3.6) treatment sessions, an average grade of 3.73 was achieved. Eight patients (72.7 %) showed an excellent response with more than 75 % lesion clearance. Three patients (27.3 %) showed a good response. Repeated treatments led to improved clearance of labial lentigines. Age, gender, and Fitzpatrick skin type were not statistically associated with efficacy grades after the first treatment session. Neither recurrence in treated areas nor significant complications were observed.

Conclusions

Q‐switched Nd:YAG laser provides an effective and safe treatment option for labial lentigines associated with Peutz‐Jeghers syndrome.
Pharmakokinetische Besonderheiten von therapeutischen Antikörpern
Authors: Wohlrab Johannes
Published: May 2015

Therapeutische Antikörper unterliegen wegen ihres hohen Molekulargewichtes und ihrer extremen Hydrophilie im Vergleich zu konventionellen Arzneimittel anderen Vorgängen der Absorption, Verteilung und Elimination. Zudem ist ihr pharmakokinetisches Profil interindividuell deutlich variabler. Nach subkutaner Applikation werden die Antikörper durch das Lymphgefäßsystem aufgenommen und stark verzögert systemisch bioverfügbar. Die physikochemischen Eigenschaften der Moleküle behindern zudem deren Verteilung vom Blut ins Gewebe. Die Elimination erfolgt durch Proteolyse in verschiedenen Organen (Haut, Muskel, Leber), aber vor allem im retikuloendothelialen System. Bedeutsam ist zudem die Zielantigen‐vermittelte Elimination, insbesondere bei zellgebundenen Zielantigenen sowie ein durch die Bindung an den neonatalen Fc‐Rezeptor vermittelten Recyclingprozess, der einen Schutz vor lysosomaler Zersetzung bietet. In Abhängigkeit von der Immunogenität des therapeutischen Antikörpers sowie der individuellen Immunantwort des Patienten kann es zur Bildung neutralisierender Antikörper kommen. Zur Optimierung der pharmakokinetischen Rahmenbedingungen kann der Therapeut zum einen eine Koapplikation mit z. B. Methotrexat erwägen, zum anderen Risikofaktoren zum Verlust der immunologischen Toleranz wie Bedarfstherapie bzw. elektive Wechsel des therapeutischen Antikörpers vermeiden.
Standard dose and prolonged administration of azacitidine are associated with improved efficacy in a real‐world group of patients with myelodysplastic syndrome or low blast count acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Voso Maria Teresa , Niscola Pasquale , Piciocchi Alfonso , Fianchi Luana , Maurillo Luca , Musto Pellegrino , Pagano Livio , Mansueto Giovanna , Criscuolo Marianna , Aloe‐Spiriti Maria Antonietta , Buccisano Francesco , Venditti Adriano , Tendas Andrea , Piccioni Anna Lina , Zini Gina , Latagliata Roberto , Filardi Nunzio , Fragasso Alberto , Fenu Susanna , Breccia Massimo ,   GROM (Gruppo Romano e Laziale MDS) and Basilicata MDS Registry
Published: May 2015

Objective

Azacitidine is the standard of care for higher‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). We evaluated factors affecting the outcome of azacitidine treatment in 196 ‘real‐world’ patients, retrospectively collected by two Italian cooperative groups.

Methods

The study included 184 MDS and 12 low blast count acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Azacitidine was administered at the standard dose of 75 mg/m2/d for 7 d (SD) in 163 patients and 100 mg/d for 5–7 d in 33 patients.

Results

After a median of 4.5 azacitidine cycles (range 7–15 cycles), 182 patients were evaluable for response. Nineteen percent achieved complete remission (CR), 17% partial remission (PR), and 21% hematological improvement (HI). The disease was stable or progressive in 29% and 14% of patients, respectively. The probability of response was significantly higher in patients who received the 75 mg/m2/7 d compared with 100 mg through 5–7 d dose (CR/PR/HI: 63 vs. 29%, P = 0.0005). Median overall survival was 17.1 months. Low MDS‐CI and achievement of CR/PR/HI were significant predictors of survival in the multivariable analysis.

Conclusions

Our data show that maximal azacitidine efficacy is associated with the standard dose and with prolonged treatment, beyond 4–6 cycles, with the goal of also improving the ‘quality’ of response. Lower MDS‐CI and IPSS‐R scores, hematologic response and disease stability, are associated with longer survival. The risk of febrile events is highest during the first treatment cycles and is associated with active disease.
Inter‐rater reliability of the Hayes Ability Screening Index in a sample of Australian prisoners
Authors: Young J. T. , van Dooren K. , Lennox N. G. , Butler T. G. , Kinner S. A.
Published: May 2015

Background

Reliable ascertainment of intellectual disability (ID) is important to identify those with special needs, in order for those needs to be met in the criminal justice system. Although the Hayes Ability Screening Index (HASI) is valid and widely used for the identification of possible ID, the risk of inter‐rater bias between researchers when scoring the HASI has not yet been established. The current paper estimates the inter‐rater reliability of the HASI in a sample of Indigenous and non‐Indigenous prisoners in Western Australia.

Methods

We estimated intra‐class correlation coefficients (ICC) for the consistency of agreement among three blinded raters using a two‐way random‐effects model assessing the inter‐rater agreement of the HASI. Kappa was also estimated for the dichotomous HASI screening threshold outcome between the raters.

Results

The HASI exhibited very good within‐subject consistency of agreement for Section B (ICC = 0.95; 95%CI:0.94–0.96), Section C (ICC = 0.97; 95%CI: 0.96–0.98) and Section D (ICC = 0.90; 95%CI: 0.87–0.92) subscales and for the total scaled score (ICC = 0.97; 95%CI: 0.96–0.98). The inter‐rater reliability of the dichotomous adult ID screening threshold (<85) was also very good (Kappa = 0.95).

Conclusions

The current study provides new evidence that the HASI has a low risk of bias from between‐rater scoring and can be reliably scored by both non‐clinicians and clinicians with little training, when administered in prison settings. Pre‐scoring training should focus on the more subjective ‘clock‐drawing’ section, in order to maximise inter‐rater reliability.
Financial Frictions, Investment Delay, and Asset Market Interventions
Authors: SHI SHOUYONG , TEWFIK CHRISTINE
Published: May 2015

We construct a dynamic macro model to incorporate financial frictions and investment delay. Investment is undertaken by entrepreneurs who face liquidity frictions in the equity market and a collateral constraint in the debt market. After calibrating the model to the U.S. data, we quantitatively examine how aggregate activity is affected by a shock to equity liquidity and a shock to entrepreneurs' borrowing capacity. We then analyze the effectiveness of government interventions in the asset market after such financial shocks. In particular, we compare the effects of government purchases of private equity and of private debt in the open market. In addition, we examine how these effects of government interventions depend on the option to delay investment.
Simulation of differential interference contrast microscopy and influence of aberrations
Authors: ESSLINGER MORITZ , GROSS HERBERT
Published: May 2015

We model differential interference contrast (DIC) for microscopes with residual aberrations. The model presented allows to predict the DIC performance of objectives directly from its bright field point spread function. We numerically simulate partially coherent illumination and discuss the influence of individual aberrations on the image quality. For the recently proposed PlasDIC setup, that comes without any condenser prism, we find that under coherent illumination the contrast reaches the performance of DIC. We present a rule for objective correction to drastically improve PlasDIC contrast also for partially coherent illumination.
Enabling the detection of UV signal in multimodal nonlinear microscopy with catalogue lens components
Authors: VOGEL MARTIN , WINGERT AXEL , FINK RAINER H.A. , HAGL CHRISTIAN , GANIKHANOV FERUZ , PFEFFER CHRISTIAN P.
Published: May 2015

Using an optical system made from fused silica catalogue optical components, third‐order nonlinear microscopy has been enabled on conventional Ti:sapphire laser‐based multiphoton microscopy setups. The optical system is designed using two lens groups with straightforward adaptation to other microscope stands when one of the lens groups is exchanged. Within the theoretical design, the optical system collects and transmits light with wavelengths between the near ultraviolet and the near infrared from an object field of at least 1 mm in diameter within a resulting numerical aperture of up to 0.56. The numerical aperture can be controlled with a variable aperture stop between the two lens groups of the condenser. We demonstrate this new detection capability in third harmonic generation imaging experiments at the harmonic wavelength of ∼300 nm and in multimodal nonlinear optical imaging experiments using third‐order sum frequency generation and coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering microscopy so that the wavelengths of the detected signals range from ∼300 nm to ∼660 nm.
New insight into the anatomy of the hyolingual apparatus of Alligator mississippiensis and implications for reconstructing feeding in extinct archosaurs
Authors: Li Zhiheng , Clarke Julia A.
Published: May 2015

Anatomical studies of the cranium of crocodilians motivated by an interest in its function in feeding largely focused on bite force, the jaw apparatus and associated muscles innervated by the trigeminal nerve. However, the ossified and cartilaginous elements of the hyoid and the associated hyolingual muscles, innervated by the facial, hypoglossal and glossopharyngeal nerves, received much less attention. Crocodilians are known to retain what are ancestrally the ‘Rhythmic Hyobranchial Behaviors’ such as buccal oscillation, but show diminished freedom and movement for the hyobranchial apparatus and the tongue in food transport and manipulation. Feeding among crocodilians, generally on larger prey items than other reptilian outgroups, involves passive transport of the food within the mouth. The tongue in extant crocodilians is firmly attached to the buccal floor and shows little movement during feeding. Here, we present a detailed anatomical description of the myology of the hyolingual apparatus of Alligator mississippiensis, utilizing contrast‐enhanced micro‐computed tomography and dissection. We construct the first three‐dimensional (3D) description of hyolingual myology in Alligator mississippiensis and discuss the detailed implications of these data for our understanding of hyolingual muscle homology across Reptilia. These anatomical data and an evaluation of the fossil record of hyoid structures also shed light on the evolution of feeding in Reptilia. Simplification of the hyoid occurs early in the evolution of archosaurs. A hyoid with only one pair of ceratobranchials and a weakly ossified or cartilaginous midline basihyal is ancestral to Archosauriformes. The comparison with non‐archosaurian reptilian outgroup demonstrates that loss of the second set of ceratobranchials as well as reduced ossification in basihyal occurred prior to the origin of crown‐clade archosaurs, crocodilians and birds. Early modification in feeding ecology appears to characterize the early evolution of the clade. Hyoid simplification has been linked to ingestion of large prey items, and this shift in hyoid‐related feeding ecology may occur in early archosauriform evolution. A second transformation in hyoid morphology occurs within the crocodilian stem lineage after the split from birds. In Crocodyliformes, deflections in the ceratobrachials become more pronounced. The morphology of the hyoid in Archosauriformes indicates that aspects of the hyolingual apparatus in extant crocodilians are derived, including a strong deflection near the midpoint of the ceratobranchials, and their condition should not be treated as ancestral for Archosauria.
Evaluation of an in‐house real‐time polymerase chain reaction method to identify group B streptococcus colonization in pregnancy
Authors: Yeung Sik‐Wing , Cheung Pik‐Tsz , Chau Sze‐Lok , Ip Margaret , Lao Terence Tzu‐Hsi , Leung Tak‐Yeung , Tam Wing‐Hung
Published: May 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of in‐house real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in detecting group B streptococcus (GBS) colonization compared with the standard culture method in a cohort of pregnant women.

Material and Methods

A total of 134 rectovaginal swabs were collected from 125 pregnant women, of whom 108 were known carriers or presented with preterm prelabor rupture of membranes. The swabs were placed in Standard Methods Broth (Todd‐Hewitt broth supplemented with 6μg/mL gentamicin and 15μg/mL nalidixic acid) for culture identification of GBS. An in‐house qPCR was also performed from the broth and after overnight incubation of the broth.

Results

The detection rate of GBS in this cohort was 30.6% and 50.7% using standard culture method and qPCR, respectively. GBS‐specific qPCR assay gave sensitivities of 97.6% and 100%, specificities of 73.1% and 71.0%, and negative predictive values of 98.6% and 100% from direct specimen and from broth after overnight incubation, respectively.

Conclusions

The in‐house qPCR test has high sensitivity in detecting GBS colonization. The high negative predictive value helps to avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics in uncolonized women.
The Benefits of Following Your Pride: Authentic Pride Promotes Achievement
Authors: Weidman Aaron C. , Tracy Jessica L. , Elliot Andrew J.
Published: May 2015

Although the emotion authentic pride has been posited to promote achievement, it remains unclear precisely how this works. Here, we tested whether authentic pride promotes adaptive downstream achievement outcomes by motivating individuals to engage in appropriate behavioral responses to success and failure. In two longitudinal studies (N = 1,132), we measured pride emotional responses to a prior performance and subsequent changes in achievement‐oriented behavior and performance outcomes among (a) adults training for long‐distance running races and (b) undergraduates completing class exams. Authentic pride shifted in direct response to achievement outcomes, such that those who performed well felt greater pride. Furthermore, individuals who felt low authentic pride responded to these feelings by changing their achievement behavior in a functional manner. In Studies 2a, 2b, and 2c, we found that pride‐driven behavioral changes led to improved future performance among low performers. In these studies we also demonstrated that the effect of authentic pride on achievement is independent of that of self‐efficacy, which in fact works in an opposite manner. Taken together, these results suggest that authentic pride functions as a barometer of achievement, promoting behavioral responses that lead to improved performance.
Slow oscillating transcranial direct current stimulation during sleep has a sleep‐stabilizing effect in chronic insomnia: a pilot study
Authors: Saebipour Mohammad R. , Joghataei Mohammad T. , Yoonessi Ali , Sadeghniiat‐Haghighi Khosro , Khalighinejad Nima , Khademi Soroush
Published: May 2015

Recent evidence suggests that lack of slow‐wave activity may play a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of insomnia. Pharmacological approaches and brain stimulation techniques have recently offered solutions for increasing slow‐wave activity during sleep. We used slow (0.75 Hz) oscillatory transcranial direct current stimulation during stage 2 of non‐rapid eye movement sleeping insomnia patients for resonating their brain waves to the frequency of sleep slow‐wave. Six patients diagnosed with either sleep maintenance or non‐restorative sleep insomnia entered the study. After 1 night of adaptation and 1 night of baseline polysomnography, patients randomly received sham or real stimulation on the third and fourth night of the experiment. Our preliminary results show that after termination of stimulations (sham or real), slow oscillatory transcranial direct current stimulation increased the duration of stage 3 of non‐rapid eye movement sleep by 33 ± 26 min (P = 0.026), and decreased stage 1 of non‐rapid eye movement sleep duration by 22 ± 17.7 min (P = 0.028), compared with sham. Slow oscillatory transcranial direct current stimulation decreased stage 1 of non‐rapid eye movement sleep and wake time after sleep‐onset durations, together, by 55.4 ± 51 min (P = 0.045). Slow oscillatory transcranial direct current stimulation also increased sleep efficiency by 9 ± 7% (P = 0.026), and probability of transition from stage 2 to stage 3 of non‐rapid eye movement sleep by 20 ± 17.8% (P = 0.04). Meanwhile, slow oscillatory transcranial direct current stimulation decreased transitions from stage 2 of non‐rapid eye movement sleep to wake by 12 ± 6.7% (P = 0.007). Our preliminary results suggest a sleep‐stabilizing role for the intervention, which may mimic the effect of sleep slow‐wave‐enhancing drugs.
Agreement between prospective diary data and retrospective questionnaire report of abdominal pain and stooling symptoms in children with irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Self M. M. , Williams A. E. , Czyzewski D. I. , Weidler E. M. , Shulman R. J.
Published: May 2015

Background

In functional gastrointestinal disorders, patient recall of symptoms drives diagnostic decisions and evaluation of treatment response, and research conclusions about potential treatments. In pediatrics, parent report also impacts assessment and care. Hence, identifying methods for accurately capturing patient and parent report of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms is important. This study evaluated correspondence between retrospective questionnaire (parent and child report) and prospective diary data for children and adolescents with IBS.

Methods

Participants included 50 children/adolescents with IBS per Rome III criteria. Children completed a 2‐week pain and stool diary. Children and parents subsequently completed a 2‐week recall questionnaire, reporting number of pain days, maximum pain, days without bowel movement, and days with diarrhea during the diary interval. Intraclass correlation coefficients and Bland–Altman plots assessed agreement.

Key Results

For pain and days without bowel movement, overall agreement between child recall questionnaire and child diary was strong, although under conditions likely to facilitate agreement and with individual variation observed. Parent recall and child diary were less concordant, and agreement about diarrhea was poor for parent and child. Age did not significantly correlate with agreement.

Conclusions & Inferences

Child questionnaire with short recall interval may be a reasonable approximation for diary data, although this varies by individual and replication/investigation of lengthier recall are needed. Relying on parent questionnaire does not appear a suitable proxy, and recall of stool form by both parent and child appears more problematic. These results combined with existing literature support use of diary data whenever possible.
Functional diversity of photobiological traits within the genus Symbiodinium appears to be governed by the interaction of cell size with cladal designation
Authors: Suggett David J. , Goyen Samantha , Evenhuis Chris , Szabó Milán , Pettay D. Tye , Warner Mark E. , Ralph Peter J.
Published: May 2015

Dinoflagellates of the genus Symbiodinium express broad diversity in both genetic identity (phylogeny) and photosynthetic function to presumably optimize ecological success across extreme light environments; however, whether differences in the primary photobiological characteristics that govern photosynthetic optimization are ultimately a function of phylogeny is entirely unresolved.

We applied a novel fast repetition rate fluorometry approach to screen genetically distinct Symbiodinium types (n = 18) spanning five clades (A–D, F) for potential phylogenetic trends in factors modulating light absorption (effective cross‐section, reaction center content) and utilization (photochemical vs dynamic nonphotochemical quenching; [1 – C] vs [1 – Q]) by photosystem II (PSII).

The variability of PSII light absorption was independent of phylogenetic designation, but closely correlated with cell size across types, whereas PSII light utilization intriguingly followed one of three characteristic patterns: (1) similar reliance on [1 – C] and [1 – Q] or (2) preferential reliance on [1 – C] (mostly A, B types) vs (3) preferential reliance on [1 – Q] (mostly C, D, F types), and thus generally consistent with cladal designation.

Our functional trait‐based approach shows, for the first time, how Symbiodinium photosynthetic function is governed by the interplay between phylogenetically dependent and independent traits, and is potentially a means to reconcile complex biogeographic patterns of Symbiodinium phylogenetic diversity in nature.
The effect of antidepressants and antipsychotics on weight gain in children and adolescents
Authors: Reekie J. , Hosking S. P. M. , Prakash C. , Kao K.‐T. , Juonala M. , Sabin M. A.
Published: May 2015

Psychiatric illness in the paediatric population is increasing and the weight effect of medications for these problems is often unclear. A comprehensive literature search was undertaken to identify studies reporting weight in relation to antipsychotic and antidepressant use in children and adolescents. From 636 articles, 42 were selected for review. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) do not cause weight gain and may lead to improvements in weight status over the short, but not, long term. Antipsychotics were generally associated with weight gain. In drug comparison studies, risperidone had a larger weight gain effect than lithium, divalproex sodium and pimozide. Studies assessing the weight‐protective effects of augmentation therapy with metformin or topiramate show less weight gain with addition of these agents. In conclusion, prescribing of SSRIs and SNRIs may be associated with improvements in weight status in children and adolescents but trials assessing their use in obesity, outside of established psychiatric illness, are limited and still experimental. Youth prescribed antipsychotic medication should be monitored for exaggerated weight gain and in those where obesity is a pre‐existing concern agents other than olanzapine, clozapine and risperidone may be advantageous.
BEYOND ACCOUNTABILITY: POLITICAL LEGITIMACY AND DELEGATED WATER GOVERNANCE IN AUSTRALIA
Authors: WOOD MATTHEW
Published: May 2015

Studies of delegated agencies commonly emphasize the importance of accountability for these unelected bodies to secure authority to govern. This article argues that beyond formal accountability measures, developing legitimacy through interaction with external stakeholders is critical to agency authority. In doing so, the article makes a distinctive contribution by applying a new conceptual model based on organizational sociology and identifying multiple dimensions along which legitimacy is lost and won, and hence authority secured. The article presents original findings from a case study of how the Murray–Darling Basin Authority, an Australian water agency established in 2007, attempted to achieve ‘political legitimacy’. Findings show that the Agency achieved legitimacy via appeals to common normative/ethical values and developing commonly used information and news outlets, despite facing opposition from stakeholders on the socioeconomic impact of its policies. The conclusion argues that the framework can usefully be applied to other agencies in ‘wicked problem’ policy areas.
RESILIENCE THINKING: LESSONS FOR PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
Authors: DUIT ANDREAS
Published: May 2015

The notion of resilience is rapidly gaining influence in public administration practice and research, but a more comprehensive resilience research agenda in public administration is yet to emerge. This article aims to clarify how experiences and potential contributions from social‐ecological resilience research can inform resilience studies in public administration. By contrasting key components of the resilience paradigm and its policy prescriptions with established findings from public administration research, a set of key shortcomings of social‐ecological resilience thinking are identified: (1) deterministic systems models; (2) simplified accounts of politics and policy; and (3) a lack of systematic and generalizable empirical studies. To avoid these shortcomings, it is suggested that public administration resilience studies should explore multiple and competing models for how resilience can be generated; analyse trade‐offs between resilience and other values of public administration; avoid systems theoretical resilience models; and apply the notion of resilience in areas beyond crisis management.
Risk factors for bronchiolitis, recurrent wheezing, and related hospitalization in preterm infants during the first year of life
Authors: Pérez‐Yarza Eduardo G. , Moreno‐Galdó Antonio , Ramilo Octavio , Rubí Teresa , Escribano Amparo , Torres Antonio , Sardón Olaia , Oliva Concepción , Pérez Guadalupe , Cortell Isidoro , Rovira‐Amigo Sandra , Pastor‐Vivero Maria D. , Pérez‐Frías Javier , Velasco Valle , Torres‐Borrego Javier , Figuerola Joan , Barrio Maria Isabel , García‐Hernández Gloria , Mejías Asunción ,   the SAREPREM 3235 investigators
Published: May 2015

Background

Airway diseases are highly prevalent in infants and cause significant morbidity. We aimed to determine the incidence and risk factors for respiratory morbidity in a Spanish cohort of moderate‐to‐late preterm (MLP) infants prospectively followed during their first year of life.

Methods

SAREPREM is a multicenter, prospective, longitudinal study. Preterm infants born at 32–35 weeks of gestation with no comorbidities were enrolled within 2 weeks of life and followed at 2–4 weeks, 6, and 12 months of age. Multivariate mixed‐models were performed to identify independent risk factors associated with (i) development of bronchiolitis, (ii) recurrent wheezing, or (iii) related hospital admissions.

Results

Overall, 977 preterm infants were included, and 766 (78.4%) completed follow‐up. Of those, 365 (47.7%) developed bronchiolitis during the first year, 144 (18.8%) recurrent wheezing, and 48 (6.3%) were hospitalized. While low birthweight, day care attendance (DCA) and school‐age siblings were significantly and independently associated with both the development of bronchiolitis and recurrent wheezing, lower maternal age increased the risk for bronchiolitis and respiratory‐related hospitalizations. Lastly, mechanical ventilation was associated with a higher risk of bronchiolitis and history of asthma in any parent increased the likelihood of developing recurrent wheezing.

Conclusions

In this study, several non‐modifiable parameters (family history of asthma, low birthweight, need for mechanical ventilation) and modifiable parameters (young maternal age, DCA, or exposure to school‐age siblings) were identified as significant risk factors for the development of bronchiolitis and recurrent wheezing during the first year of life in MLP infants.
Transarterial embolization for pediatric hepatocellular carcinoma with cardiac cirrhosis
Authors: Yamada Kentaro , Shinmoto Hiroshi , Kawamura Yoichi , Wakamatsu Hajime , Kawauchi Toshio , Soga Shigeyoshi , Ogata Sho , Kaji Tatsumi
Published: May 2015

We describe the case of a 15‐year‐old boy with a history of Fontan operation and multiple intrahepatic tumors. Computed tomography showed multiple hepatic nodules with arterial enhancement. Because hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was not detected on biopsies and tumor markers were normal, progress was monitored on imaging. One hepatic tumor increased greatly in size during follow up. At 15 years of age, tumor markers rose rapidly, and he had upper abdominal swelling. Therefore, transarterial embolization (TAE) was performed for the largest tumor, suspected to be a HCC due to cardiac cirrhosis. This tumor had not increased at follow up 4 months later. The patient died from hepatic failure at the age of 17 years, and HCC was diagnosed at autopsy. Although pediatric HCC is rare, its incidence is likely to increase. TAE, with or without anticancer agents, is a therapeutic option for unresectable pediatric HCC, as it is for adult HCC.
Characterization of an activation‐tagged mutant uncovers a role of GLABRA2 in anthocyanin biosynthesis in Arabidopsis
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Wang Xianling , Hu Qingnan , Dai Xuemei , Tian Hainan , Zheng Kaijie , Wang Xiaoping , Mao Tonglin , Chen Jin‐Gui , Wang Shucai
Published: May 2015

In Arabidopsis, anthocyanin biosynthesis is controlled by a MYB‐bHLH‐WD40 (MBW) transcriptional activator complex. The MBW complex activates the transcription of late biosynthesis genes in the flavonoid pathway, leading to the production of anthocyanins. A similar MBW complex regulates epidermal cell fate by activating the transcription of GLABRA2 (GL2), a homeodomain transcription factor required for trichome formation in shoots and non‐hair cell formation in roots. Here we provide experimental evidence to show that GL2 also plays a role in regulating anthocyanin biosynthesis in Arabidopsis. From an activation‐tagged mutagenized population of Arabidopsis plants, we isolated a dominant, gain‐of‐function mutant with reduced anthocyanins. Molecular cloning revealed that this phenotype is caused by an elevated expression of GL2, thus the mutant was named gl2‐1D. Consistent with the view that GL2 acts as a negative regulator of anthocyanin biosynthesis, gl2‐1D seedlings accumulated less whereas gl2‐3 seedlings accumulated more anthocyanins in response to sucrose. Gene expression analysis indicated that expression of late, but not early, biosynthesis genes in the flavonoid pathway was dramatically reduced in gl2‐1D but elevated in gl2‐3 mutants. Further analysis showed that expression of some MBW component genes involved in the regulation of late biosynthesis genes was reduced in gl2‐1D but elevated in gl2‐3 mutants, and chromatin immunoprecipitation results indicated that some MBW component genes are targets of GL2. We also showed that GL2 functions as a transcriptional repressor. Taken together, these results indicate that GL2 negatively regulates anthocyanin biosynthesis in Arabidopsis by directly repressing the expression of some MBW component genes.
Blood graft cellular composition and posttransplant recovery in non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma patients mobilized with or without plerixafor: a prospective comparison
Authors: Valtola Jaakko , Varmavuo Ville , Ropponen Antti , Nihtinen Anne , Partanen Anu , Vasala Kaija , Lehtonen Päivi , Penttilä Karri , Pyörälä Marja , Kuittinen Taru , Silvennoinen Raija , Nousiainen Tapio , Pelkonen Jukka , Mäntymaa Pentti , Jantunen Esa
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

Autologous stem cell transplantation is commonly used to treat non‐Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHLs). Cellular composition of the blood grafts apparently has a role in the posttransplant hematologic and immune recovery. Plerixafor increases the mobilization of CD34+ cells and higher amounts of various lymphocyte subsets have been reported in the grafts. Limited prospective data are available in regard to graft cellular composition, hematologic and immune recovery, and patient outcomes in NHL patients who receive plerixafor added to chemomobilization.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Forty‐one patients with NHL participated in this prospective study. All patients received chemomobilization and 15 poor mobilizers also received plerixafor. CD34+ cell subsets and lymphocyte subsets of cell grafts, posttransplant hematologic and immune recovery, and outcome were evaluated.

RESULTS

Blood grafts in the plerixafor group contained a significantly higher proportion of CD34+133+CD38– cells and more lymphocytes of all major subsets except B lymphocytes. Neutrophil engraftment was comparable and platelet recovery slightly slower in the plerixafor group. Natural killer cell recovery was significantly faster in patients mobilized with plerixafor. Otherwise hematologic and immune recovery as well as short‐time outcome were comparable even though there was a trend for progression‐free survival and overall survival benefit in the plerixafor group.

CONCLUSIONS

In poorly mobilizing NHL patients, plerixafor added to chemomobilization is safe and effective. It also modifies the blood graft composition in many ways, some of which have been linked to better outcomes in previous studies. Larger sets of patients and longer follow‐up are needed to see whether plerixafor‐mobilized grafts are associated with superior outcome of the patients.
Hot Spot Cooling and Harvesting Central Processing Unit Waste Heat Using Thermoelectric Modules
Authors: Lee Soochan , Phelan Patrick E. , Wu Carole-Jean
Published: May 2015

The increasing integration of high performance processors and dense circuits in current computing devices has produced high heat flux in localized areas (hot spots), which limits their performance and reliability. To control the hot spots on a central processing unit (CPU), many researchers have focused on active cooling methods such as thermoelectric coolers (TECs) to avoid thermal emergencies. This paper presents optimized thermoelectric modules on top of the CPU combined with a conventional air-cooling device to reduce the core temperature and at the same time harvest waste heat energy generated by the CPU. To control the temperature of the cores, we attach small-sized TECs to the CPU and use thermoelectric generators (TEGs) placed on the rest of the CPU to convert waste heat energy into electricity. This study investigates design alternatives with an analytical model considering the nonuniform temperature distribution based on two-node thermal networks. The results indicate that we are able to attain more energy from the TEGs than energy consumption for running the TECs. In other words, we can allow the harvested heat energy to be reused to power other components and reduce cores temperature simultaneously. Overall, the idea of simultaneous core cooling and waste heat harvesting using thermoelectric modules on a CPU is a promising method to control the problem of heat generation and to reduce energy consumption in a computing device.
In Vietnam, an anatomy of a measles outbreak
Authors: Roberts Leslie
Published: May 2015

A mistrust of vaccines, an overburdened hospital, and even the weather conspired to kick off a devastating measles outbreak last year.
Unlearning implicit social biases during sleep
Authors: Hu Xiaoqing , Antony James W. , Creery Jessica D. , Vargas Iliana M. , Bodenhausen Galen V. , Paller Ken A.
Published: May 2015

Sleep on it: Consolidating implicit learning

A good night's sleep is one of the best ways to fix recently learned information into long-lasting memory. Recent evidence suggests that recent memories are reactivated during sleep and woven into existing representations of stored information. Hu
et al.
now demonstrate that triggering memory consolidation during sleep can help set into place recently learned anti-bias training (see the Perspective by Feld and Born). Changes in people's stereotypical attitudes toward race and gender were maintained for up to 1 week after training.

Science
, this issue p.
1013
; see also p.
971
A display of brilliance
Marks of Genius Masterpieces from the Collections of the Bodleian Libraries
Stephen Hebron, curator
Weston Library, Oxford, UK. 21 March to 20 September 2015. http://genius.bodleian.ox.ac.uk
Authors: Robinson Andrew
Published: May 2015

The Weston Library's inaugural exhibition showcases original works from the world's best and brightest
Congress's attacks on science-based rules
Authors: Rosenberg A. A. , Branscomb L. M. , Eady V. , Frumhoff P. C. , Goldman G. T. , Halpern M. , Kimmell K. , Kothari Y. , Kramer L. D. , Lane N. F. , McCarthy J. J. , Phartiyal P. , Rest K. , Sims R. , Wexler C.
Published: May 2015

Proposed laws based on false premises could undermine science for the public interest
A CD3xCD123 bispecific DART for redirecting host T cells to myelogenous leukemia: Preclinical activity and safety in nonhuman primates
Authors: Chichili Gurunadh R. , Huang Ling , Li Hua , Burke Steve , He Leilei , Tang Qin , Jin Linda , Gorlatov Sergey , Ciccarone Valentina , Chen Francine , Koenig Scott , Shannon Michele , Alderson Ralph , Moore Paul A. , Johnson Syd , Bonvini Ezio
Published: May 2015

MGD006, a CD3xCD123 bispecific DART molecule intended for AML treatment, shows anticancer activity in mouse model and favorable pharmacodynamic and safety profile in nonhuman primates.
Characterization of Poliovirus Neutralization Escape Mutants of Single-Domain Antibody Fragments (VHHs)
Authors: Schotte Lise , Thys Bert , Strauss Mike , Filman David J. , Rombaut Bart , Hogle James M.
Published: May 2015

To complete the eradication of poliovirus and to protect unvaccinated people subsequently, the development of one or more antiviral drugs will be necessary. A set of five single-domain antibody fragments (variable parts of the heavy chain of a heavy-chain antibody [VHHs]) with an
in vitro
neutralizing activity against poliovirus type 1 was developed previously (B. Thys, L. Schotte, S. Muyldermans, U. Wernery, G. Hassanzadeh-Ghassabeh, and B. Rombaut, Antiviral Res 87:257–264, 2010,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.antiviral.2010.05.012
), and their mechanisms of action have been studied (L. Schotte, M. Strauss, B. Thys, H. Halewyck, D. J. Filman, M. Bostina, J. M. Hogle, and B. Rombaut, J Virol 88:4403–4413, 2014,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1128/JVI.03402-13
). In this study, neutralization escape mutants were selected for each VHH. Sequencing of the P1 region of the genome showed that amino acid substitutions are found in the four viral proteins of the capsid and that they are located both in proximity to the binding sites of the VHHs and in regions further away from the canyon and hidden beneath the surface. Characterization of the mutants demonstrated that they have single-cycle replication kinetics that are similar to those of their parental strain and that they are all drug (VHH) independent. Their resistant phenotypes are stable, as they do not regain full susceptibility to the VHH after passage over HeLa cells in the absence of VHH. They are all at least as stable as the parental strain against heat inactivation at 44°C, and three of them are even significantly (
P
< 0.05) more resistant to heat inactivation. The resistant variants all still can be neutralized by at least two other VHHs and retain full susceptibility to pirodavir and 35-1F4.
Mupirocin Resistance in Isolates of Staphylococcus spp. from Nasal Swabs in a Tertiary Hospital in France
Authors: Trouillet-Assant Sophie , Flammier Sacha , Sapin Anais , Dupieux Céline , Dumitrescu Oana , Tristan Anne , Vandenesch François , Rasigade Jean-Philippe , Laurent Frederic
Published: May 2015

Mupirocin is a topical antibiotic largely used to eradicate staphylococcal nasal carriage. Here, we investigated the prevalence of mupirocin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
and coagulase-negative staphylococcal isolates recovered from patients in different wards in a hospital (Lyon, France), which were determined both phenotypically with an Epsilometer test (Etest) and genetically by PCR for
mupA
and
mupB
.
Testing Pooled Sputum with Xpert MTB/RIF for Diagnosis of Pulmonary Tuberculosis To Increase Affordability in Low-Income Countries
Authors: Abdurrahman Saddiq T. , Mbanaso Omezikam , Lawson Lovett , Oladimeji Olanrewaju , Blakiston Matthew , Obasanya Joshua , Dacombe Russell , Adams Emily R. , Emenyonu Nnamdi , Sahu Suvanand , Creswell Jacob , Cuevas Luis E.
Published: May 2015

Tuberculosis (TB) is a global public health problem, with the highest burden occurring in low-income countries. In these countries, the use of more sensitive diagnostics, such as Xpert MTB/RIF (Xpert), is still limited by costs. A cost-saving strategy to diagnose other diseases is to pool samples from various individuals and test them with single tests. The samples in positive pool samples are then retested individually to identify the patients with the disease. We assessed a pooled testing strategy to optimize the affordability of Xpert for the diagnosis of TB. Adults with presumptive TB attending hospitals or identified by canvassing of households in Abuja, Nigeria, were asked to provide sputum for individual and pooled (4 per pool) testing. The agreement of the results of testing of individual and pooled samples and costs were assessed. A total of 738 individuals submitted samples, with 115 (16%) being
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
positive. Valid Xpert results for individual and pooled samples were available for 718 specimens. Of these, testing of pooled samples detected 109 (96%) of 114 individual
M. tuberculosis
-positive samples, with the overall agreement being 99%. Xpert semiquantitative
M. tuberculosis
levels had a positive correlation with the smear grades, and the individual sample-positive/pooled sample-negative results were likely due to the
M. tuberculosis
concentration being below the detection limit. The strategy reduced cartridge costs by 31%. Savings were higher with samples from individuals recruited in the community, where the proportion of positive specimens was low. The results of testing of pooled samples had a high level of agreement with the results of testing of individual samples, and use of the pooled testing strategy reduced costs and has the potential to increase the affordability of Xpert in countries with limited resources.
Evaluation of BD Max StaphSR and BD Max MRSA
XT
Assays Using ESwab-Collected Specimens
Authors: Silbert Suzane , Kubasek Carly , Galambo Faris , Vendrone Elaine , Widen Raymond
Published: May 2015

The BD Max MRSA
XT
and the BD Max StaphSR assays were validated for the detection of methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) in ESwab samples. In addition, the BD Max StaphSR assay was evaluated for its ability to detect and differentiate
S. aureus
and MRSA in the same sample. A total of 255 ESwab samples collected from the anterior nares of patients were tested by each of three BD Max assays, including the BD Max MRSA first-generation assay. The results were compared to those of direct and enrichment culture. Additionally, a challenge panel comprising 14 control strains was evaluated to determine the ability of these assays to correctly identify MRSA and also appropriately differentiate
S. aureus
by the BD Max StaphSR assay. Out of 255 clinical samples tested, 161 were negative and 30 were positive for MRSA, and 45 were positive for
S. aureus
(by BD Max StaphSR) and negative for MRSA by all three PCR assays and culture. Nineteen samples had discrepant results; all of them were retested by additional laboratory testing. All strains from the challenge panel were correctly identified or excluded by the BD Max MRSA
XT
and BD Max StaphSR assays. The results showed that the BD Max StaphSR and the BD MRSA
XT
assays have excellent sensitivity (94.3%) and specificity (97.7%) for detecting MRSA. The BD Max StaphSR assay demonstrated excellent sensitivity (96.4%) and specificity (93.6%) for detecting
S. aureus
.