bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From peer-reviewed to peer-reproduced: a role for data standards, models and computational workflows in scholarly publishing
Authors: Gonzalez-Beltran Alejandra , Li Peter , Zhao Jun , Avila-Garcia Maria Susana , Roos Marco , Thompson Mark , van der Horst Eelke , Kaliyaperumal Rajaram , Luo Ruibang , Lee Tin-Lap , Lam Tak-wah , Edmunds Scott C. , Sansone Susanna-Assunta , Rocca-Serra Philippe
Published: December 2014

Motivation: Reproducing the results from a scientific paper can be challenging due to the absence of data and the computational tools required for their analysis. In addition, details relating to the proce- dures used to obtain the published results can be difficult to discern due to the use of natural language when reporting how experiments have been performed. The Investigation/Study/Assay (ISA), Nanop- ublications (NP) and Research Objects (RO) models are conceptual data modelling frameworks that can structure such information from scientific papers. Computational workflow platforms can also be used to reproduce analyses of data in a principled manner. We assessed the extent by which ISA, NP and RO models, together with the Galaxy workflow system, can capture the experimental processes and reproduce the findings of a previously published paper reporting on the development of SOAPdenovo2, a de novo genome assembler. Results: Executable workflows were developed using Galaxy which reproduced results that were con- sistent with the published findings. A structured representation of the information in the SOAPdenovo2 paper was produced by combining the use of ISA, NP and RO models. By structuring the information in the published paper using these data and scientific workflow modelling frameworks, it was possible to explicitly declare elements of experimental design, variables and findings. The models served as guides in the curation of scientific information and this led to the identification of inconsistencies in the original published paper, thereby allowing its authors to publish corrections in the form of an errata. Availability: SOAPdenovo2 scripts, data and results are available through the GigaScience Database: http://dx.doi.org/10.5524/100044; the workflows are available from GigaGalaxy: http://galaxy. cbiit.cuhk.edu.hk; and the representations using the ISA, NP and RO models are available through the SOAPdenovo2 case study website http://isa-tools.github.io/soapdenovo2/. Contact: philippe.rocca- serra@oerc.ox.ac.uk and susanna.assunta-sansone@oerc.ox.ac.uk
Online Self-Report Data for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy confirms natural history and can be used to assess for therapeutic benefits
Authors: Wang Richard T. , Silverstein Cheri , Ulm J. Wes , Jankovic Ivana , Eskin Ascia , Lu Ake , Rangel Miller Vanessa , Cantor Rita M. , Li Ning , Elashoff Robert , Martin Ann S. , Peay Holly , Nelson Stanley F.
Published: December 2014

To assess the utility of online patient self-report outcomes in a rare disease, we attempted to observe the effects of corticosteroids in delaying age at fulltime wheelchair use in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) using data from 1,057 males from DuchenneConnect, an online registry. Data collected were compared to prior natural history data in regard to age at diagnosis, mutation spectrum, and age at loss of ambulation. Because registrants reported differences in steroid and other medication usage, as well as age and ambulation status, we could explore these data for correlations with age at loss of ambulation. Using multivariate analysis, current steroid usage was the most significant and largest independent predictor of improved wheelchair-free survival. Thus, these online self-report data were sufficient to retrospectively observe that current steroid use by patients with DMD is associated with a delay in loss of ambulation. Comparing commonly used steroid drugs, deflazacort prolonged ambulation longer than prednisone (median 14 years and 13 years, respectively). Further, use of Vitamin D and Coenzyme Q10, insurance status, and age at diagnosis after 4 years were also significant, but smaller, independent predictors of longer wheelchair-free survival. Nine other common supplements were also individually tested but had lower study power. This study demonstrates the utility of DuchenneConnect data to observe therapeutic differences, and highlights needs for improvement in quality and quantity of patient-report data, which may allow exploration of drug/therapeutic practice combinations impractical to study in clinical trial settings. Further, with the low barrier to participation, we anticipate substantial growth in the dataset in the coming years.
An experimental test of the relationship between melanism and desiccation survival in insects
Authors: Rajpurohit Subhash , Peterson Lisa Marie , Orr Andrew , Marlon Anthony J. , Gibbs Allen G
Published: December 2014

We used experimental evolution to test the ‘melanism-desiccation’ hypothesis, which proposes that dark cuticle in severalDrosophilaspecies is an adaptation for increased desiccation tolerance. We selected for dark and light body pigmentation in replicated populations ofD. melanogasterand assayed traits related to water balance. We also scored pigmentation and desiccation tolerance in populations selected for desiccation survival. Populations in both selection regimes showed large differences in the traits directly under selection. However, after over 40 generations of pigmentation selection, dark-selected populations were not more desiccation-tolerant than light-selected and control populations, nor did we find significant changes in carbohydrate amounts that could affect desiccation resistance. Body pigmentation of desiccation-selected populations did not differ from control populations after over 140 generations of selection. Our results do not support an important role for melanization inDrosophilawater balance.
Polytypism in GaAs nanowires: determination of the interplanar spacing of wurtzite GaAs by X-ray diffraction
Authors: Köhl Martin , Schroth Philipp , Minkevich Andrey A. , Hornung Jean-Wolfgang , Dimakis Emmanouil , Somaschini Claudio , Geelhaar Lutz , Aschenbrenner Timo , Lazarev Sergey , Grigoriev Daniil , Pietsch Ullrich , Baumbach Tilo
Published: December 2014

In GaAs nanowires grown along the cubic [111]cdirection, zinc blende and wurtzite arrangements have been observed in their stacking sequence, since the energetic barriers for nucleation are typically of similar order of magnitude. It is known that the interplanar spacing of the (111)cGa (or As) planes in the zinc blende polytype varies slightly from the wurtzite polytype. However, different values have been reported in the literature. Here, the ratio of the interplanar spacing of these polytypes is extracted based on X-ray diffraction measurements for thin GaAs nanowires with a mean diameter of 18–25 nm. The measurements are performed with a nano-focused beam which facilitates the separation of the scattering of nanowires and of parasitic growth. The interplanar spacing of the (111)cGa (or As) planes in the wurtzite arrangement in GaAs nanowires is observed to be 0.66% ± 0.02% larger than in the zinc blende arrangement.
Four (2,2′-bipyridyl)(ferrocenyl)boronium derivatives
Authors: Bats Jan W. , Ma Kuangbiao , Lerner Hans-Wolfram
Published: December 2014

Crystal structures are reported for four (2,2′-bipyridyl)(ferrocenyl)boronium derivatives, namely (2,2′-bipyridyl)(ethenyl)(ferrocenyl)boronium hexafluoridophosphate, [Fe(C5H5)(C17H15BN2)]PF6, (Ib), (2,2′-bipyridyl)(tert-butylamino)(ferrocenyl)boronium bromide, [Fe(C5H5)(C19H22BN3)]Br, (IIa), (2,2′-bipyridyl)(ferrocenyl)(4-methoxyphenylamino)boronium hexafluoridophosphate acetonitrile hemisolvate, [Fe(C5H5)(C22H20BN3O)]PF6·0.5CH3CN, (IIIb), and 1,1′-bis[(2,2′-bipyridyl)(cyanomethyl)boronium]ferrocene bis(hexafluoridophosphate), [Fe(C17H14BN3)2](PF6)2, (IVb). The asymmetric unit of (IIIb) contains two independent cations with very similar conformations. The B atom has a distorted tetrahedral coordination in all four structures. The cyclopentadienyl rings of (Ib), (IIa) and (IIIb) are approximately eclipsed, while a bisecting conformation is found for (IVb). The N—H groups of (IIa) and (IIIb) are shielded by the ferrocenyl andtert-butyl or phenyl groups and are therefore not involved in hydrogen bonding. The B—N(amine) bond lengths are shortened by delocalization of π-electrons. In the cations with an amine substituent at boron, the B—N(bipyridyl) bonds are 0.035 (3) Å longer than in the cations with a methylene C atom bonded to boron. A similar lengthening of the B—N(bipyridyl) bonds is found in a survey of related cations with an oxy group attached to the B atom.
Crystal structure of the coordination polymer [FeIII2{PtII(CN)4}3]
Authors: Seredyuk Maksym , Muñoz M. Carmen , Real José A. , Iskenderov Turganbay S.
Published: December 2014

The title complex, poly[dodeca-μ-cyanido-diiron(III)triplatinum(II)], [FeIII2{PtII(CN)4}3], has a three-dimensional polymeric structure. It is built-up from square-planar [PtII(CN)4]2−anions (point group symmetry 2/m) bridging cationic [FeIIIPtII(CN)4]+∞layers extending in thebcplane. The FeIIatoms of the layers are located on inversion centres and exhibit an octahedral coordination sphere defined by six N atoms of cyanide ligands, while the PtIIatoms are located on twofold rotation axes and are surrounded by four C atoms of the cyanide ligands in a square-planar coordination. The geometrical preferences of the two cations for octahedral and square-planar coordination, respectively, lead to a corrugated organisation of the layers. The distance between neighbouring [FeIIIPtII(CN)4]+∞layers corresponds to the lengtha/2 = 8.0070 (3) Å, and the separation between two neighbouring PtIIatoms of the bridging [PtII(CN)4]2−groups corresponds to the length of thecaxis [7.5720 (2) Å]. The structure is porous with accessible voids of 390 Å3per unit cell.
Crystal structure of dioxidobis(pentane-2,4-dionato-κ2O,O′)[1-phenyl-3-(pyridin-4-yl)propane-κN]uranium(VI)
Authors: Kawasaki Takeshi , Kitazawa Takafumi
Published: December 2014

In the title compound, [UO2(C5H7O2)2(C14H15N)], the uranyl(VI) unit ([O=U=O]2+) is coordinated to two acetylacetonate (acac) anions and one 1-phenyl-3-(pyridin-4-yl)propane (ppp) molecule. The geometry around the U atom is UNO6pentagonal–bipyramidal; two uranyl(VI) O atoms are located at the axial positions, whereas four O atoms from two chelating bidentate acac ligands and one N atom of a ppp ligand form the equatorial plane.
Crystal structure of [3-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)propanoato-κN3][3-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)propanoic acid-κN3]copper(I)
Authors: Liu Zhimin , Zheng Shengrun , Feng Sisi
Published: December 2014

In the title compound, [Cu(C10H9N2O2)(C10H10N2O2)], the CuIion is situated at a crystallographic centre of inversion and is coordinated in a linear environment by two benzimidazole N atoms from two symmetry-related 2-propanoic-1H-benzimidazole ligands. The ligands are disordered in a sense that statistically one of the carboxylic acid groups in each molecule is deprotonated. In the crystal, O—H...O hydrogen bonds link the molecules into chains along thea-axis direction. These chains are additionally linked into infinite two-dimensional networks in theabplane by N—H...O hydrogen bonds.
Increasing the effectiveness of electrical resistivity tomography using γ11n configurations
Authors: Szalai S. , Lemperger I. , Metwaly M. , Kis Á. , Wesztergom V. , Szokoli K. , Novák A.
Published: December 2014

A new array type, i.e., the γ11n arrays, is introduced in this paper, in which the sequence of the current (C) and potential (P) electrodes is CPCP, and the distance between the last two electrodes is n times the distance between the first two ones and that of the second one and the third one. These arrays are called quasinull arrays because they are—according to their array and behaviour—between the traditional and null arrays. It is shown by numerical modelling that, in detecting small‐effect inhomogeneity, these configurations may be more effective than the traditional ones, including the optimized Stummer configuration. Certain γ11n configurations—especially the γ112, γ113, and γ114—produced better results both in horizontal and vertical resolution investigations. Based on the numerical studies, the γ11n configurations seem to be very promising in problems where the anomalies are similar to the numerically investigated ones, i.e., they can detect and characterize, e.g., tunnels, caves, cables, tubes, abandoned riverbeds, or discontinuity, in a clay layer with greater efficacy than those of the traditional configurations. γ11n measurements need less data than traditional configurations; therefore, the time demand of electrical resistivity tomography measurements can be shortened by their use.
Microhabitat associations of vascular epiphytes in a wet tropical forest canopy
Authors: Woods Carrie L. , Cardelús Catherine L. , DeWalt Saara J.
Published: December 2014

In tropical forests, vascular epiphyte diversity increases with tree size, which could result from an increase in area, time for colonization or an increase in microhabitat heterogeneity within‐tree crowns if vascular epiphyte species are specialized to particular microhabitats within the crown. The importance of microhabitats in structuring epiphyte communities has been hypothesized for more than 120 years but not yet confirmed.

We tested the importance of microhabitats in structuring epiphyte communities by examining microhabitat heterogeneity and epiphyte communities within the crowns of different‐sized Virola koschnyi (Myristicaceae) emergent trees in a Costa Rican tropical wet forest. We tested the degree to which epiphyte species composition was associated with environmental conditions and resources (i.e. microhabitats) using multivariate analyses and a null model that compared the observed epiphyte assemblages amongst different‐sized trees and crown zones with assemblages generated randomly. This study is the first to rigorously examine the degree of microhabitat specialization in epiphyte communities.

Microhabitat heterogeneity, epiphyte species richness and abundance increased with tree size. The largest trees had the highest microhabitat and epiphyte diversity and a unique inner crown microhabitat with canopy humus. The few epiphytes found on small trees were mostly bark ferns. Large trees had different epiphyte communities in different parts of the crown; the inner crown contained species not abundant in any other microhabitat (i.e. aroids, cyclanths and humus ferns), and the outer crown contained bark ferns and atmospheric bromeliads.

Variation in species composition amongst tree size classes was significantly related to the mean daily maximum vapour pressure deficit and tree diameter, while variation within large tree crowns was significantly related to canopy humus cover.

Microhabitat specialization of epiphyte species increased with tree size with 6% of species significantly associated with small trees and 57% significantly associated with large trees. Of the species present in large tree crowns, 23% were specialized to the unique inner crown microhabitat.

Synthesis. The increase in microhabitat heterogeneity within tree crowns as trees grow contributes to changes in epiphyte community structure, which supports decades‐old hypotheses of the importance of microhabitat diversity and specialization in structuring tropical epiphyte communities.
Flow‐mediated dilatation, using time course data, shows maturation of the brachial artery from young children to mid‐adolescents
Authors: Kontos Anna , Pamula Yvonne , Martin James , Gent Roger , Lushington Kurt , Baumert Mathias , Willoughby Scott , Richardson Malcolm , Couper Jennifer , Kennedy Declan
Published: December 2014

Flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD) is a tool widely used to measure arterial responsiveness to sheer stress. However, there is scant literature to show how the peripheral arterial response changes as the vascular system matures. One reason for this is that the feasibility of measuring FMD in younger children has not been established. The aim of the present study was to assess brachial artery function at rest and during the FMD response after 4 min ischaemia of the forearm in children aged 6–15 years. Time to reach maximum FMD (FMDmax) was found to be correlated with age (r = 0.4, P < 0.05), resting brachial artery diameter (r = 0.4, P < 0.05), height (r = 0.4, P < 0.05), body mass index (BMI; r = 0.45, P < 0.05), body surface area (r = 0.44, P < 0.05) and resting blood flow (r = 0.37, P < 0.05). However, there was no correlation between the traditional FMD response at 60 s or FMD maximal dilation and age, resting brachial artery diameter, height, weight, BMI, body surface area and resting blood flow. In conclusion, the time taken to reach the maximal dilation response is related to age, brachial artery luminal diameter and body habitus, but not the traditional measure of FMD response at 60 s or the maximal dilatation percentage.
The Impact of Medicaid Reform on Children's Dental Care Utilization in Connecticut, Maryland, and Texas
Authors: Nasseh Kamyar , Vujicic Marko
Published: December 2014

Objective

To measure the impact of Medicaid reforms, in particular increases in Medicaid dental fees in Connecticut, Maryland, and Texas, on access to dental care among Medicaid‐eligible children.

Data

2007 and 2011–2012 National Survey of Children's Health.

Study Design

Difference‐in‐differences and triple differences models were used to measure the impact of reforms.

Principal Findings

Relative to Medicaid‐ineligible children and all children from a group of control states, preventive dental care utilization increased among Medicaid‐eligible children in Connecticut and Texas. Unmet dental need declined among Medicaid‐eligible children in Texas.

Conclusions

Increasing Medicaid dental fees closer to private insurance fee levels has a significant impact on dental care utilization and unmet dental need among Medicaid‐eligible children.
Recovery of Spray Paint Traces from Clothing by Beating
Authors: Olderiks Maurice , Baiker Martin , van Velzen Jill , van der Weerd Jaap
Published: December 2014

Manual recovery of spray paints from textiles using a microscope, the routine method in many laboratories, is often laborious. Beating the clothing with a plastic rod, the routine method used for recovery of glass traces within the authors’ laboratory, is proposed as an alternative. The efficiency of the method was evaluated by spray tests with fluorescent paint. In these tests, paint particles in the acquired debris samples, as well as those remaining on the textiles, were investigated. The results show that beating is an efficient way to recover and concentrate paint particles. A good efficiency for jeans fabric and rough knitwear is reported. The results appeared to be less satisfactory for smooth woven fabric. Application of the method in casework was effective for graffiti paints as well as for flaked car paint.
On the Possibility of Nonfat Frying using Molten Glucose
Authors: Al‐Khusaibi Mohammed , Ahmad Tarmizi Azmil Haizam , Niranjan Keshavan
Published: December 2014

Fried products impose a health concerns due to considerable amount of oil they contain. Production of snack foods with minimal oil content and good management of oil during frying to minimize the production of toxic compounds continue to be challenging aims. This paper aims to investigate the possibility of producing a fat‐free food snack by replacing frying oil with a nonfat medium. Glucose was melted and its temperature was then brought to 185 °C and used to fry potato strips, to obtain a product referred here as glucose fries. The resulting product was compared with French fries prepared conventionally under conditions that resulted in similar final moisture content. The resulting products were also examined for crust formation, texture parameters, color development and glucose content. Stereo microscope images showed that similar crusts were formed in the glucose fries and French fries. Texture parameters were found to be similar for both products at 5 and 2 mm penetration depth. The maximum hardness at 2 mm penetration depth was also similar for both products, but different from cooked potato. The color development that characterized French fries was also observed in glucose fries. The glucose content in glucose fries was found to be twice the content of French fries, which is to be expected because glucose absorbed or adhered to the surface. In conclusion, glucose fries, with similar texture and color characteristics to that of French fries, can be prepared by using a nonfat frying medium.
Improvement of Flavor and Viscosity in Hot and Cold Break Tomato Juice and Sauce by Peel Removal
Authors: Mirondo Rita , Barringer Sheryl
Published: December 2014

Tomatoes are typically not peeled before being made into juice but the peels contain enzymes that affect the odor, flavor, and viscosity of the juice. The peels are removed in the finisher, but their presence during the break process may affect quality. Juice was processed from peeled and unpeeled tomatoes using hot or cold break. The juices were pasteurized by high temperature short time (HTST), low temperature long time (LTLT), or with a retort. The control samples were treated with 10% calcium chloride to stop enzymatic activity in the juice. Sauce was made from juice and the tomato products were analyzed for volatiles, color, viscosity, and by sensory. Cold break juice made with peel contained higher levels of some lipoxygenase‐, carotenoid‐, and amino acid–derived volatiles, than the juice made without peel. Because of the lack of enzyme activity, hot break juices had lower levels of these volatiles and there was no significant difference between hot break juices made with and without peel. CaCl2‐treated and HTST juice had higher levels of most of the volatiles than LTLT, including the lipoxygenase‐derived volatiles. The presence of peel produced a significant decrease in the viscosity of the cold break juice and sauce. There was no significant difference in the hue angle, total soluble solids, pH, titratable acidity, and vitamin C for most of the treatments. The texture, flavor, and overall liking of cold break juice made without peel were preferred over cold break juice made with peel whereas the color was less preferred. Between the sauces no significant differences in preference were obtained.
Clinical equipoise: Protons and the child with craniopharyngioma
Authors: Conroy Ruth , Gomes Lavier , Owen Catherine , Buchsbaum Jeffrey , Ahern Verity
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Childhood craniopharyngioma is a complex condition to manage. Survival figures are high but the potential for long‐term morbidity is great. There is much debate regarding the best management for these tumours with increasing interest in the use of proton beam therapy. We have therefore reviewed our radiotherapy (RT) practice at Westmead Hospital and the literature regarding the use of protons for these children.

Methods

Three children have received fractionated stereotactic RT for craniopharyngioma at Westmead Hospital since 2007. Each RT plan was reviewed and additional organs at risk were contoured to enable comparison with published proton data.

Results

Planning target volume coverage was similar with all modalities: with the conformity index ranging from 0.70 to 0.78 in our patients compared with 0.50–0.84 in the published data. RT dose to temporal lobes, hippocampi and whole brain was also similar with protons and photons. Proton beam therapy may give lower dose to the Circle of Willis than stereotactic RT.

Conclusion

Currently there is no clear evidence that proton beam therapy will improve survival or reduce morbidity for children with craniopharyngioma. However, proton therapy has the potential to reduce RT dose to the Circle of Willis, which may reduce the risk of future cerebrovascular complications. We propose that more resources should be allocated to ensuring these patients are managed by experienced multidisciplinary teams through the continuum from diagnosis to long‐term follow‐up.
Development and assessment of a new dermal attachment for short‐term tagging studies of baleen whales
Authors: Baumgartner Mark F. , Hammar Terry , Robbins Jooke
Published: December 2014

Current studies of fine‐scale baleen whale diving and foraging behaviour rely on archival suction cup tags that remain attached over time scales of hours. However, skin irregularities can make suction cup attachment unreliable, and traditional pole deployment of suction cup tags is challenging in moderate sea conditions or when whales are evasive.

We developed a new tag attachment to overcome these limitations. The attachment features a short (6·5–7·5 cm) needle that anchors in the whale's dermis (epidermis and blubber) to which a free‐floating tag is attached via a severable tethered link. The needle, tag and a detachable ‘carrier rocket’ with fletching are fitted together to form a projectile that can be deployed at distances of up to 20 m using a compressed‐air launcher. A corrosive release mechanism allows the tag to separate from the needle after a specified period of time so that the tag can be recovered.

The dermal attachment was evaluated during a study of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the Gulf of Maine and then subsequently deployed on bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus) near Barrow, Alaska. Monitoring of tagged humpback whales indicated that the needle was shed several days after deployment, the attachment site healed shortly thereafter, and there were no discernible behavioural or health effects over time scales of days to months after tagging. Bowhead whales showed little immediate reaction to tagging; the most common response was a prolonged dive right after tag deployment. On average, respiration rates of tagged bowhead whales were elevated after tag attachment, but returned to the same rate as undisturbed bowheads within 1–1·5 h.

When compared to suction cups, the dermal anchor provided a more reliable attachment and it can be applied from greater distances and in rougher sea conditions; it is therefore a useful alternative in circumstances where suction cup tags cannot be easily deployed.
The effects of surgical checklists on morbidity and mortality: a pre‐ and post‐intervention study
Authors: RODRIGO‐RINCON I. , MARTIN‐VIZCAINO M.P. , TIRAPU‐LEON B. , ZABALZA‐LOPEZ P. , ZABALLOS‐BARCALA N. , VILLALGORDO‐ORTIN P. , ABAD‐VICENTE F.J. , GOST‐GARDE J.
Published: December 2014

Background

Surgical checklists (SCs) have been developed to enhance teamwork and facilitate handovers, thereby improving the safety of surgical patients in health care organisations. The aim of this study was to determine whether the implementation of a 39‐item SC reduced mortality and surgical adverse events (AEs) in patients undergoing inpatient surgery.

Methods

A retrospective pre‐ and post‐intervention study of two cohorts of surgical patients was conducted (n = 1602) in a tertiary teaching hospital. The patients' homogeneity was confirmed by studying 40 comorbidities, 13 analytical determinations and 14 patient‐ and intervention‐related variables. A 39‐item SC adapted from one by the World Health Organization was used. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of any AE, including death, within 30 days of the operation. Twenty‐three types of AEs were analysed.

Results

Following implementation of the checklist, the rate of AEs per 100 patients decreased from 31.5% to 26.5% (P = 0.39), the rate of infectious AEs decreased from 13.9 to 9.6 (P = 0.037) and non‐infectious AEs decreased from 17.5 to 16.8 (P = 0.82). For non‐elective patients, total AEs decreased from 60.4 to 37.0 (P = 0.017). The proportion of patients with one or more AE decreased from 18.1% to 16.2% (P = 0.35), and the death rate at 30 days decreased from 1.5% to 0.9% (P = 0.35).

Conclusion

The overall AE rate did not decrease significantly between the two periods. However, the rate of infectious AEs and overall AEs in patients with non‐elective admissions had statistically significant reductions. Further research is needed to determine how and in which patients SC introduction can work successfully.
Minimizing seabird by‐catch in industrial fisheries
Authors: Boyd C.
Published: December 2014

Read the Feature Paper: Significant reductions in mortality of threatened seabirds in a South African trawl fishery; other Commentaries on this paper: Challenges in seabird by‐catch mitigation and the Response from the authors: Problems and solutions for seabird bycatch in trawl fisheries
Linear pharmacokinetics of 3,4‐methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) and its metabolites in the rat: relationship to pharmacodynamic effects
Authors: Anizan Sebastien , Concheiro Marta , Lehner Kurt R. , Bukhari Mohammad O. , Suzuki Masaki , Rice Kenner C. , Baumann Michael H. , Huestis Marilyn A.
Published: December 2014

3,4‐Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) is a commonly abused synthetic cathinone in the United States and is associated with dangerous side effects. MDPV is a dopamine transporter blocker that is 10‐fold more potent than cocaine as a locomotor stimulant in rats. Previous in vitro and in vivo metabolism studies identified 3,4‐dihydroxypyrovalerone (3,4‐catechol‐PV) and 4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxypyrovalerone (4‐OH‐3‐MeO‐PV) as the two primary MDPV metabolites. This study examined MDPV pharmacokinetics and metabolism, along with associated pharmacodynamic effects in rats receiving 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 mg/kg subcutaneous (s.c.) MDPV. Blood was collected by an indwelling jugular catheter before dosing and at 10, 20, 30, 60, 120, 240 and 480 minutes thereafter. Plasma specimens were analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled to high‐resolution tandem mass spectrometry. Maximum concentrations (Cmax) and area‐under‐the‐curve (AUC) for MDPV and two metabolites increased proportionally with administered dose, showing linear pharmacokinetics. MDPV exhibited the highest Cmax at all doses (74.2–271.3 μg/l) and 4‐OH‐3‐MeOH‐PV the highest AUC (11 366–47 724 minutes per μg/l), being the predominant metabolite. MDPV time to Cmax (Tmax) was 12.9–18.6 minutes, while 3,4‐catechol‐PV and 4‐OH‐3‐MeO‐PV peaked later with Tmax 188.6–240 minutes after s.c. dosing. Horizontal locomotor activity (HLA) and stereotypy correlated positively with plasma MDPV concentrations, while HLA correlated negatively with MDPV metabolites. These results suggest that the parent compound mediates motor stimulation after systemic MDPV administration, but additionally, metabolites may be inhibitory, may not be active or may not pass the blood brain barrier.
Feeding across the food web: The interaction between diet, movement and body size in estuarine crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus)
Authors: Hanson Jeffrey O. , Salisbury Steven W. , Campbell Hamish A. , Dwyer Ross G. , Jardine Timothy D. , Franklin Craig E.
Published: December 2014

The estuarine crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) is an apex predator across freshwater, estuarine and coastal environments. The impact of a changingC. porosuspopulation upon the ecosystem is unknown, but due to large ontogenetic changes in body mass (>1000‐fold) their impact may be wide reaching and substantial. Here we investigated the relationship between diet, movement and body size in a population ofC. porosusinhabiting a tidal river in northern Australia. Subcutaneous acoustic transmitters and fixed underwater receivers were used to determine the activity space and movement patterns of 42 individuals (202–451 cm in total length). There was no size‐related spatial partitioning among different sized crocodiles. Large individuals (snout–vent length (SVL): 160 cm < SVL < 188.5 cm) did, however, exhibit a much larger activity space than other size classes. Diet and individual specialization was assessed using the composition of stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotopes in tissues with different turnover rates. There was a quadratic relationship between body size andδ15N, suggesting that medium‐sized individuals (110 cm < SVL < 160 cm) incorporated a greater proportion of high trophic prey into their diets than small (SVL < 110 cm) or large individuals (SVL > 160 cm). Tissueδ13Ccomposition on the other hand was positively correlated with body size, indicating that different size classes were trophically linked to primary producers in different habitats. Individual‐level analyses showed that small crocodiles were generalist feeders while medium and large size classes specialized on particular prey items within the food webs they fed. The findings further our understanding of ontogenetic variation inC. porosusdiet, and suggest that change inC. porosuspopulation size or demographics may be influential at various levels across the local food web.
Morphology of the Canine Omentum Part 2: The Omental Bursa and its Compartments Materialized and Explored by a Novel Technique
Authors: Doom M. , de Rooster H. , van Bergen T. , Gielen I. , Kromhout K. , Simoens P. , Cornillie P.
Published: December 2014

The canine omental bursa is a virtual cavity enclosed by the greater and lesser omentum. While previous representations of this bursa were always purely schematic, a novel casting technique was developed to depict the three‐dimensional organization of the omental bursa more consistently. A self‐expanding polyurethane‐based foam was injected into the omental bursa through the omental foramen in six dogs. After curing and the subsequent maceration of the surrounded tissues, the obtained three‐dimensional casts could clearly and in a reproducible way reveal the omental vestibule, its caudal recess and the three compartments of the splenic recess. The cast proved to be an invaluable study tool to identify the landmarks that define the enveloping omentum. In addition, the polyurethane material can easily be discerned on computed tomographic images. When the casting technique is preceded by vascular injections, the blood vessels that supply the omentum can be outlined as well.
Aflibercept‐related nasal septum perforation
Authors: Alkan Ali , Yücel Levent , Mızrak Dılşa , Akbulut Hakan
Published: December 2014

Hypertension, cytopenia and diarrhea are the most common side effects of aflibercept. Rarely thromboembolism, hemorrhage, fistulization and reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy have been reported. Here we report a patient experiencing nasal septum perforation during aflibercept therapy.
The Productivity Consequences of Political Turnover: Firm‐Level Evidence from Ukraine's Orange Revolution
Authors: Earle John S. , Gehlbach Scott
Published: December 2014

We examine the impact of political turnover on economic performance in a setting of largely unanticipated political change and profoundly weak institutions: the 2004 Orange Revolution in Ukraine. Exploiting census‐type panel data on over 7,000 manufacturing enterprises, we find that the productivity of firms in the regions most supportive of Viktor Yushchenko increased by more than 15 percentage points in the three years following his election, relative to that in the most anti‐Yushchenko regions. We conclude that this effect is driven primarily by particularistic rather than general economic policies that disproportionately increased output among large enterprises, government suppliers, and private enterprises—three types of firms that had much to gain or lose from turnover at the national level. Our results demonstrate that political turnover in the context of weak institutions can have substantial distributional effects that are reflected in economic productivity.
The locus C11orf30 increases susceptibility to poly‐sensitization
Authors: Amaral A. F. S. , Minelli C. , Guerra S. , Wjst M. , Probst‐Hensch N. , Pin I. , Svanes C. , Janson C. , Heinrich J. , Jarvis D. L.
Published: December 2014

A number of genetic variants have been associated with allergic sensitization, but whether these are allergen specific or increase susceptibility to poly‐sensitization is unknown. Using data from the large multicentre population‐based European Community Respiratory Health Survey, we assessed the association between 10 loci and specific IgE and skin prick tests to individual allergens and poly‐sensitization. We found that the 10 loci associate with sensitization to different allergens in a nonspecific manner and that one in particular, C11orf30‐rs2155219, doubles the risk of poly‐sensitization (specific IgE/4 allergens: OR = 1.81, 95% CI 0.80–4.24; skin prick test/4+ allergens: OR = 2.27, 95% CI 1.34–3.95). The association of rs2155219 with higher levels of expression of C11orf30, which may be involved in transcription repression of interferon‐stimulated genes, and its association with sensitization to multiple allergens suggest that this locus is highly relevant for atopy.
Amniotic fluid erythropoietin and neonatal outcome in pregnancies complicated by intrauterine growth restriction before 34 gestational weeks
Authors: Seikku Laura , Rahkonen Leena , Tikkanen Minna , Hämäläinen Esa , Rahkonen Petri , Andersson Sture , Teramo Kari , Paavonen Jorma , Stefanovic Vedran
Published: December 2014

Objective

High amniotic fluid erythropoietin concentration reflects chronic fetal hypoxia. Our aim was to study amniotic fluid erythropoietin concentration in relation to neonatal outcome in pregnancies complicated by intrauterine growth restriction.

Design

Retrospective case series.

Setting

Helsinki University Hospital, Finland.

Sample

A total of 66 singleton pregnancies complicated by intrauterine growth restriction.

Methods

Amniocentesis or amniotic fluid sampling at cesarean section was performed between 24 and 34 gestational weeks. Values of amniotic fluid erythropoietin were quantitated with immunochemiluminometric assay. Normal amniotic fluid erythropoietin was defined as <3 IU/L, intermediate as 3–27 IU/L, and abnormal as >27 IU/L.

Main outcome measures

Adverse neonatal outcome.

Results

Abnormal biophysical profile and reversed end‐diastolic flow in umbilical artery were associated with abnormal amniotic fluid erythropoietin (p < 0.001 and p = 0.042, respectively). Abnormal amniotic fluid erythropoietin was not associated with absent end‐diastolic flow in umbilical artery or with oligohydramnios (p = 0.404 and p = 0.080, respectively). Decreased umbilical artery pH and base excess values were associated with abnormal amniotic fluid erythropoietin (p = 0.027 and p = 0.007, respectively). Composite adverse neonatal outcome defined as intraventricular hemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia, cerebral infarction and/or necrotizing enterocolitis was associated with abnormal amniotic fluid erythropoietin (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

High amniotic fluid erythropoietin concentrations are associated with decreased umbilical artery pH and base excess and with adverse neonatal outcome in pregnancies complicated by intrauterine growth restriction before 34 gestational weeks. In selected pregnancies complicated by intrauterine growth restriction, determining amniotic fluid erythropoietin could be a useful additional tool in fetal surveillance and possibly in optimizing timing of delivery.
Fetal ultrasound examination and assessment of genetic soft markers in Sweden: are ethical principles respected?
Authors: Hayat Roshanai Afsaneh , Ingvoldstad Charlotta , Lindgren Peter
Published: December 2014

Objective

To explore procedures for providing information, assessment and documentation about ultrasound soft markers in Sweden.

Design

Descriptive, quantitative, cross‐sectional survey.

Sample

Eighty‐two percent of all obstetric ultrasound clinics in Sweden (covering >90% of routine fetal ultrasound examinations).

Methods

Postal questionnaire survey between December 2010 and January 2011.

Main outcome measures

Items about provision of information, risk estimation, and follow‐up strategies in relation to observed ultrasound soft markers.

Results

More than 96% of all fetal routine ultrasound examinations were performed at 15–21 gestational weeks, primarily by midwives. Half of the clinics replying wanted prospective parents to be provided with information, but 38 (78%) of the clinics did not routinely inform about assessment of soft markers before the examination. Follow up and decisions on whether to give information when soft markers were found were based on the number and type of the observed markers, whether other structural deviations existed, and on the woman's age and anxiety level. Only at eight clinics (17%) were parents informed about all soft marker findings. At 13 clinics (28%) observed markers were documented/recorded, even though the women were not informed.

Conclusions

Information regarding the assessment and importance of observed soft markers seems to be inconsistent and insufficient. Provision of information and documentation of findings appear to be handled differently at obstetric ultrasound clinics. This suggests that Swedish ethical principles relating to healthcare and ultrasound examinations are incompletely followed and national guidelines appear to be necessary.
Systemic circulatory influences on retinal microvascular function in middle‐age individuals with low to moderate cardiovascular risk
Authors: Seshadri Swathi , Mroczkowska Stephanie , Qin Lu , Patel Sunni , Ekart Aniko , Gherghel Doina
Published: December 2014

Purpose

To investigate the relationship between retinal microvascular reactivity, circulatory markers for CVD risk and systemic antioxidative defence capacity in healthy middle‐aged individuals with low to moderate risk of CVD.

Methods

Retinal vascular reactivity to flickering light was assessed in 102 healthy participants (46–60 years) by means of dynamic retinal vessel analysis (DVA). Other vascular assessments included carotid intima‐media thickness (C‐IMT) and blood pressure (BP) measurements. Total cholesterol (CHOL), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), triglycerides (TG) and blood glutathione levels in its reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) forms were also determined for each participant, along with Framingham risk scores (FRS).

Results

Retinal arterial baseline diameter fluctuation (BDF) was independently, significantly and negatively influenced by LDL‐C levels (β = −0.53, p = 0.027). Moreover, the arterial dilation slope (SlopeAD) was independently, significantly and positively associated with redox index (GSH: GSSG ratio, β = 0.28, p = 0.016), while the arterial constriction slope (SlopeAC) was significantly and negatively influenced by blood GSH levels (β = −0.20, p = 0.042), and positively associated with FRS (β = 0.25, p = 0.009). Venous BDF and dilation amplitude (DA) were also negatively influenced by plasma LDL‐C levels (β = −0.83, p = 0.013; and β = −0.22, p = 0.028, respectively).

Conclusions

In otherwise healthy individuals with low to moderate cardiovascular risk, retinal microvascular dilation and constriction responses to stress levels are influenced by systemic antioxidant capacity, and circulating markers for cardiovascular risk.
Regulation of free glutamate content in meat by dietary lysine in broilers
Authors: Watanabe Genya , Kobayashi Hiroyuki , Shibata Masahiro , Kubota Masatoshi , Kadowaki Motoni , Fujimura Shinobu
Published: December 2014

Regulation of taste is important for improving meat quality and glutamate (Glu) is one of the important taste‐active components in meat. Here, the effects of dietary lysine (Lys) content on taste‐active components in meat, especially free Glu, were investigated. Fourteen‐day‐old broiler chicks (Gallus gallus) were fed on diets containing 100% or 150% of the recommended Lys content for 10 days. Concentrations of free amino acids in plasma, muscle and liver were measured. The levels of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) for enzymes related to Glu metabolism were determined in muscle and liver. The concentration of muscle metabolites was also determined. The free Glu content in muscle of chicks fed the Lys150% diet was increased by 44.0% compared with that in chicks fed the Lys100% diet (P < 0.01). The mRNA level of lysine α‐ketoglutarate reductase, which is involved in Lys degradation and Glu production, was significantly increased (P < 0.05) in the Lys150% group. Metabolome analysis showed that the Lys degradation products, muscular saccharopine, pipecolic acid and α‐aminoadipic acid, were increased in the Lys150% group. Our results suggest that free Glu content in muscle is regulated by Lys degradation. These results suggest that a short‐term feeding of high‐Lys diet could improve the taste of meat.
The importance of family and community support for the health of HIV‐affected populations in Southern Africa: What do we know and where to from here?
Authors: Casale Marisa
Published: December 2014

Purpose

Informal family and community support deriving from social relations can play an important role in protecting mental and physical health in resource‐scarce contexts and may help facilitate health service access and uptake. Yet, to date, there has been surprisingly little empirical research investigating the role of social support as a resource for health in HIV‐affected Southern African communities, despite the known importance of social connectedness, high rates of physical and mental health conditions, and existing ‘treatment gaps’.

Methods

This paper brings together and discusses findings of multiple linked analyses, from the first large‐scale explanatory sequential mixed methods research investigating the relationship between social support and health with caregiver populations in HIV‐endemic South Africa.

Results

Overall, findings highlight the protective role of social support for caregiver mental health, the multiple perceived psychological and behavioural mechanisms possibly explaining the relationship between social support and both mental and physical health, and gender differences in the provision, effects, and availability of support.

Conclusions

Drawing from these findings and the broader literature, four potential foci for future research in Southern Africa are identified and discussed, as are implications for research design and methodologies. These involve achieving a better understanding of the following: The pathways and processes explaining common and differential effects of social support across different population groups; the potential protective role of social support for physical health; and the role of factors such as gender and social and cultural norms in shaping the relationship between social support and health.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Mental and physical health are closely related.

HIV increases the risk of mental health conditions.

Studies mainly from high‐income countries have shown social relations and support to be protective of health.

What does this study add?

First mixed methods research of this dimension on social support and health in Southern Africa.

Highlights importance of social support for mental health among caregivers of children in HIV‐endemic South Africa.

Points to biological and psychological pathways explaining the support–health relationship in this sample.