bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the value of reducing errors in inventory information from a supply chain perspective
Authors: Sari Kazim
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the value of reducing errors in inventory information from a supply chain perspective. To this end, the benefits of reducing errors in inventory information are compared with those of lead time reduction and supply chain collaboration.

Design/methodology/approach

– A simulation model is constructed to perform the analysis.

Findings

– Results show that lead time reduction is the most important strategy for a supply chain in reducing total supply chain cost. In terms of customer service level, on the other hand, strategy of reducing errors in inventory information is observed as the most considerable strategy. However, the results for supply chain collaboration are somewhat unexpected. Namely, in spite of its popularity, supply chain collaboration provides very limited contribution to the supply chain.

Practical implications

– This research provides useful knowledge for the managers of a business enterprise in prioritizing various supply chain strategies.

Originality/value

– In supply chain management literature, greater emphasis is given to lead time reduction and supply chain collaboration than dealing with errors in inventory information. This research makes it clear that errors in inventory information should not be underestimated.
Case of acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau following psoriasis with atypical clinical presentation
Authors: Iijima Shigeruko , Okazaki Yukiko , Watanabe Shinya , Maruyama Yoko
Published: January 2015

We present a 63‐year‐old Japanese woman who had clinically unique symmetrical skin rashes on her lower face, inframammary area, back and extremities, with some pustules on the cheeks. Skin biopsy specimens showed typical findings of psoriasis, and Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score was 5.9. After the skin lesions were treated successfully with vitamin D3 ointment, pustules developed on the tips of the fingers and toes, with paronychial and subungual involvement. The pathology of the nail matrix was consistent with pustular psoriasis, and the patient was diagnosed with acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau (ACH) following psoriasis with an unusual clinical presentation. ACH was well controlled with a low dose of cyclosporin. Our patient is a rare case chronologically affected by two diseases in the same category. We confirmed that ACH is a variant of pustular psoriasis, and believe that the patient could provide another clue to determining the entity of ACH.
Fire dynamics distinguish grasslands, shrublands and woodlands as alternative attractors in theCentralGreatPlains ofNorthAmerica
Authors: Ratajczak Zak , Nippert Jesse B. , Briggs John M. , Blair John M.
Published: January 2015

This review synthesizes evidence that altered fire frequency drives discontinuous ecosystem transitions from mesic grasslands to shrublands or woodlands in theCentralGreatPlains,USA.

Long‐term fire manipulations reveal that grassland to shrubland transitions are triggered when fire‐free intervals increase from 1–3 years to ≥ 3–8 years, and longer fire returns (˜10 years or more) result in transitions to woodlands. Grazing and soil properties alter these fire thresholds.

Grassland to shrubland transitions are abrupt and exhibit nonlinear relationships between driver and state variables. Transitions to shrublands and woodlands exhibit hysteresis, where reintroducing frequent fires does not reverse transitions in management‐relevant time‐scales (decades).

Nonlinear transitions and hysteresis emerge because grasses generate positive feedbacks with fire that create strong demographic barriers for shrub and tree establishment. Fire‐free intervals allow shrubs and trees to reach a size sufficient to survive fire, reproduce and disrupt the fire feedback loop through competition.

Synthesis. Mesic grasslands, shrublands and woodlands constitute self‐reinforcing states (alternative attractors) separated by critical fire frequency thresholds. Even without major shifts in climate, altered fire frequency can produce dramatic state changes, highlighting the importance of fire for predicting future ecosystem states. Local management should focus on prevention of unwanted transitions rather thanpost hocrestoration.
Climate change will increase savannas at the expense of forests and treeless vegetation in tropical and subtropical Americas
Authors: Anadón José D. , Sala Osvaldo E. , Maestre Fernando T.
Published: January 2015

Transition areas between biomes are particularly sensitive to environmental changes. Our understanding of the impacts of ongoing climate change on terrestrial ecosystems has significantly increased during the last years. However, it is largely unknown how climatic change will affect transitions among major vegetation types.

We modelled the distribution of three alternative states (forest, savanna and treeless areas) in the tropical and subtropical Americas by means of climate‐niche modelling. We studied how such distribution will change by the year 2070 by using 17 downscaled and calibrated global climate models from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 and the latest scenarios provided by the 5th Assessment Report of the IPCC.

Our results support the savannization of the tropical and subtropical Americas because of climate change, with an increase in savannas mainly at the expense of forests.

Our models predict an important geographical shift in the current distribution of transition areas between forest and savannas, which is much less pronounced in the case of those between savannas and treeless areas. Largest shifts, up to 600 km northward, are predicted in the forest–savanna transitions located in the eastern Amazon.

Our findings indicate that climate change will promote a shift towards more unstable states: the extent of the transition areas will notably increase, and largely stable forest areas are predicted to shrink dramatically.

Synthesis. Our work explores dimensions of the impact of climate change on biomes that have received little attention so far. Our results indicate that climate change will not only affect the extent of savanna, forest and treeless areas in the tropical and subtropical Americas, but also will: (i) promote a significant geographical shift and an increase of the extent of transition areas between biomes and (ii) decrease the stability of the equilibrium between forest, savanna and treeless areas, yielding a more unpredictable system.
SecReT6: a web‐based resource for type VI secretion systems found in bacteria
Authors: Li Jun , Yao Yufeng , Xu H. Howard , Hao Limin , Deng Zixin , Rajakumar Kumar , Ou Hong‐Yu
Published: January 2015

SecReT6 (http://db‐mml.sjtu.edu.cn/SecReT6/) is an integrated database providing comprehensive information on type VI secretion systems (T6SSs) in bacteria. T6SSs are a class of sophisticated cell contact‐dependent apparatuses involved in mediating antagonistic or synergistic communications between bacteria and/or bacteria and eukaryotes. These apparatuses have recently been found to be widely distributed among Gram‐negative bacterial species. SecReT6 offers a unique, readily explorable archive of known and putative T6SSs, and cognate effectors found in bacteria. It currently contains data on 11 167 core T6SS components mapping to 906 T6SSs found in 498 bacterial strains representing 240 species, as well as a collection of over 600 directly relevant references. Also collated and archived were 1340 diverse candidate secreted effectors which were experimentally shown and/or predicted to be delivered by T6SSs into target eukaryotic and/or prokaryotic cells as well as 196 immunity proteins. A broad range of T6SS gene cluster detection and comparative analysis tools are readily accessible via SecReT6, which may aid identification of effectors and immunity proteins around the T6SS core components. This database will be regularly updated to ensure its ongoing maximal utility and relevance to the scientific research community.
Implementing Joined‐Up Government: Lessons from the Australian Social Inclusion Agenda
Authors: Carey Gemma , McLoughlin Pauline , Crammond Brad
Published: January 2015

‘Joined‐up government’ (JUG) approaches have emerged in many industrialized countries as a means to tackle persistent ‘wicked’ public and social policy problems (Pollit ). Despite this, limited evidence exists concerning their implementation or effectiveness. ‘JUG’ was popularized by the Blair Government (UK) with its focus on addressing social exclusion. Following in these footsteps, in 2007 the Australian Government launched the Social Inclusion Agenda: a joined‐up approach to improving the wellbeing of all Australians and addressing disadvantage. This paper focuses on findings from a study that examined the SIA as a natural experiment in JUG. Drawing on the implementation experiences of federal policy makers, our findings lend weight to emerging research into JUG that suggests that compatibility and consistency between goals, instruments, and processes is critical to success. We argue that closer attention needs to be given to developing ‘supportive architecture’ around joined‐up initiatives to facilitate implementation.
Identification of Bioactive Peptide Sequences from Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) Seed Proteins and Their Potential Role in the Prevention of Chronic Diseases
Authors: Montoya‐Rodríguez Alvaro , Gómez‐Favela Mario A. , Reyes‐Moreno Cuauhtémoc , Milán‐Carrillo Jorge , González de Mejía Elvira
Published: February 2015

Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) is a pseudocereal with higher protein concentration than most cereal grains. Enzymatic hydrolysis and food processing could produce biopeptides from amaranth proteins; however, there is limited information about the bioactivity of peptides from amaranth proteins. The objective of this comprehensive review was to determine bioactive peptide sequences in amaranth proteins that may prevent cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. Amaranth proteins, reported in UniProt database, were evaluated for potential bioactive peptide using BIOPEP database. The 15 main proteins present in amaranth seed are 11S globulin, 7S globulin, α‐amylase inhibitor, trypsin inhibitor, antimicrobial proteins, nonspecific lipid‐transfer‐protein‐1, superoxide dismutase, ring‐zinc finger protein, prosystemin, amaranth albumin 1, glucose‐1‐phosphate adenyltransferase, glucosyltransferase, polyamine oxidase, granule‐bound starch synthase 1, and acetolactate synthase. All proteins showed high occurrence frequencies of angiotensin‐converting enzyme‐inhibitor peptides (A = 0.161 to 0.362), as well as of dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitor (A = 0.003 to 0.087). Other proteins showed antioxidative (A = 0.012 to 0.063) and glucose uptake‐stimulating activity (A = 0.023 to 0.042), and also antithrombotic (A = 0.002 to 0.031) and anticancer sequences (A = 0.001 to 0.042). The results of this study support the concept that amaranth grain could be part of a “healthy” diet and thereby prevent chronic human diseases.
Hypothermia Secondary to Glioblastoma Multiforme? Autopsy Findings in Two Cases
Authors: Morgan Matthew , Schwartz Liliana , Duflou Johan
Published: January 2015

Death due to accidental primary hypothermia in cold climates is relatively common, with previous case series reflecting this. In contrast, hypothermia‐related death as a result of an underlying medical cause, such as a brain tumor, is rare. The literature clearly illustrates a theoretical causal relationship between brain neoplasms and hypothermia through the infiltration of the hypothalamus; however, the number of reported cases is minimal. Two cases are presented where autopsy confirmed hypothermia as the cause of death with both cases revealing widespread glioblastoma multiforme in the brain. Both decedents were elderly with a number of comorbidities identified during autopsy that could explain death; however, hypothermia was deemed the most likely cause. It is proposed that both decedents died of hypothermia as a result of the tumor's effect on thermoregulation. These cases underline the importance of forensic pathologists to be aware of the relationship between brain tumors and hypothermia and to not dismiss death as being due to other disease processes.
Comparison of the C‐MAC video laryngoscope with direct Macintosh laryngoscopy in the emergency department
Authors: Vassiliadis John , Tzannes Alex , Hitos Kerry , Brimble Jessica , Fogg Toby
Published: January 2015

Objective

To investigate the first pass success rate, airway grade and complications in two tertiary EDs with the C‐MAC video laryngoscope (VL), when compared with standard direct laryngoscopy (DL).

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data entered into an airway registry database in the EDs of Royal North Shore and St George Hospitals (SGH) over a 30 month period. Doctors had the choice of using either DL using a Macintosh or Miller blade or a C‐MAC VL for the intubation.

Results

Six hundred and nineteen consecutive patients were recruited. There was no statistical difference between VL and DL in grade of view obtained, P = 0.526. Chance of intubation success increased by more than threefold by using a C‐MAC VL in the setting of a grade III/IV (total of 109) on DL (OR = 3.06; 95% CI: 1.52–6.17; P = 0.002).

Conclusion

This is the first observational study of airway management comparing the C‐MAC VL with DL blades in an Australian ED population. Our findings revealed that although the C‐MAC VL overall did not provide an enhanced view of the larynx over the Macintosh DL, it was superior to DL when the grade was at least grade III. Currently we are unable to reliably predict the grade by any algorithm prior to intubation. Findings from this study suggest that the C‐MAC VL should be considered as the first line laryngoscope in all ED intubations not just the ones predicted to be difficult.
Diagnosing Acute Heart Failure in Patients With Undifferentiated Dyspnea: A Lung and Cardiac Ultrasound (LuCUS) Protocol
Authors: Russell Frances M. , Ehrman Robert R. , Cosby Karen , Ansari Asim , Tseeng Stephanie , Christain Errick , Bailitz John
Published: January 2015

Objectives

The primary goal of this study was to determine accuracy for diagnosing acutely decompensated heart failure (ADHF) in the undifferentiated dyspneic emergency department (ED) patient using a lung and cardiac ultrasound (LuCUS) protocol. Secondary objectives were to determine if US findings acutely change management and if findings are more accurate than clinical gestalt.

Methods

This was a prospective, observational study of adult patients presenting to the ED with undifferentiated dyspnea. The intervention consisted of a 12‐view LuCUS protocol performed by experienced emergency physician sonographers. The primary objective was measured by comparing US findings to the final diagnosis independently determined by two physicians blinded to the LuCUS result. Acute treatment changes based on US findings were tracked in real time through a standardized data collection form.

Results

Data on 99 patients were analyzed; ADHF was the final diagnosis in 36%. The LuCUS protocol had sensitivity of 83% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 67% to 93%), specificity of 83% (95% CI = 70% to 91%), positive likelihood ratio of 4.8 (95% CI = 2.7 to 8.3), and negative likelihood ratio of 0.20 (95% CI = 0.09 to 0.42). Forty‐seven percent of patients had changes in acute management, and 42% had changes in acute treatment. Observed agreement for the LuCUS protocol was 93% between coinvestigators. Overall, accuracy improved by 20% (83% vs. 63%, 95% CI = 8% to 31% for the difference) over clinical gestalt alone.

Conclusions

The LuCUS protocol may accurately identify ADHF and may improve acute clinical management in dyspneic ED patients. This protocol has improved diagnostic accuracy over clinical gestalt alone.
The Effect of Traumatic Lumbar Puncture on Hospitalization Rate for Febrile Infants 28 to 60 Days of Age
Authors: Pingree Elizabeth W. , Kimia Amir A. , Nigrovic Lise E.
Published: January 2015

Objectives

The authors measured the effect of a traumatic or unsuccessful lumbar puncture (LP) on the management of febrile infants.

Methods

This was a 10‐year retrospective cross‐sectional study of low‐risk infants by the “Boston” criteria 28 to 60 days of age presenting to the emergency department for evaluation of fever. “Normal LP” infants had cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) WBC < 10 × 106 cells/L. “Traumatic” or “unsuccessful LP” infants had CSF red blood cell count ≥ 10 × 109 cells/L or no CSF cell counts obtained, respectively. A serious bacterial infection (SBI) was defined as growth of a bacterial pathogen from culture. The hospitalization and SBI rates were compared between infants with normal versus traumatic or unsuccessful LPs.

Results

Of the 929 study infants, 756 (81.4%) had normal LPs, and 173 (18.6%) had traumatic or unsuccessful LPs. Infants with traumatic or unsuccessful LPs had a higher hospitalization rate (72.3% traumatic or unsuccessful LP vs. 18.1% normal LP; difference = 54.1%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 46.4% to 60.8%), but a similar SBI rate (2.9% vs. 4.1%; difference = 1.2%; 95% CI = –2.7% to 3.6%). No infant had proven bacterial meningitis (0% risk, 95% CI = 0 to 0.3%).

Conclusions

Low‐risk infants aged 28 to 60 days with traumatic or unsuccessful LPs are more frequently hospitalized, although SBI rates were similar to those of infants with normal LPs.
The Transfer Instability Index: A Novel Metric of Emergency Department Transfer Relationships
Authors: Kindermann Dana R. , Mutter Ryan L. , Houchens Robert L. , Barrett Marguerite L. , Pines Jesse M.
Published: January 2015

Objectives

In this study, the objective was to characterize emergency department (ED) transfer relationships and study the factors that predict the stability of those relationships. A metric is derived for ED transfer relationships that may be useful in assessing emergency care regionalization and as a resource for future emergency medicine research.

Methods

Emergency department records at transferring hospitals were linked to ED and inpatient records at receiving hospitals in nine U.S. states using the 2010 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project State Emergency Department Databases and State Inpatient Databases, the American Hospital Association Annual Survey, and the Trauma Information Exchange Program. Using the Clinical Classification Software to categorize conditions, high transfer rate conditions were placed into nine clinical groups. The authors created a new measure, the “transfer instability index,” which estimates the effective number of “transfer partners” for each sending ED: this is designed to measure the stability of outgoing transfer relationships, where higher values of the index indicate less stable relationships. The index provides a measure of how many hospitals a transferring hospital sends its patients to (weighted by how often each transfer partner is used). Regression was used to analyze factors associated with higher values of the index.

Results

Sending hospitals had a median of 3.5 effective transfer partners across all conditions. The calculated transfer instability indices varied from 1 to 2.4 across disease categories. In general, higher index values were associated with treating a higher proportion of publicly insured patients: 10 and 12% increases in the Medicare and Medicaid share of ED encounters, respectively, were associated with 10 and 14% increases in the effective number of transfer partners. This public insurance effect held while studying all conditions together as well as within individual disease categories, such as cardiac, neurologic, and traumatic conditions.

Conclusions

United States EDs that transfer patients to other hospitals often have multiple transfer partners. The stability of the transfer relationship, assessed by the transfer instability index, differs by condition. Less stable transfer relationships (i.e., hospitals with greater numbers of transfer partners) were more common in EDs with higher proportions of publicly insured patients.
Long‐term outcomes for patients with acute myeloid leukemia: A single‐center experience from AIIMS, India
Authors: Bahl Ankur , Sharma Atul , Raina Vinod , Kumar Lalit , Bakhshi Sameer , Gupta Ritu , Kumar Rajeev
Published: January 2015

Aim

To analyze clinicopathological characteristics of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients and to evaluate long‐term outcome of these patients presented to single tertiary care center in India.

Methods

We evaluated outcomes of 480 patients (age 8–60 years), classified into good, intermediate and poor risk according to cytogenetic results. Standard “3 + 7” induction therapy with dose of daunorubicin ranging from 45 to 90 mg/m2 followed by two to three courses of high‐dose cytarabine (12–18 g/m2) as consolidation therapy was given to majority.

Results

The complete remission rate of the treated population (407 patients) was 70% with 84.8% in good risk, 67.9% in intermediate risk and 54.2% in poor risk (P = 0.0001). Induction mortality was 18.4%. One hundred twenty‐nine patients relapsed with median treatment free interval of 10.4 months. At a median follow‐up of 34.5 months, the median overall survival (OS) was 20.6 months with an estimated 5‐year survival rate of 35.5%. No difference was found in OS between the three risk groups; however, patients with intermediate risk had a better leukemia‐free survival (LFS) in comparison to good risk. Multivariate analysis showed age, performance status, treatment completion and hematopoietic stem cell transplant affecting OS, while only treatment completion affected LFS.

Conclusion

This is one of the largest single‐center studies reflecting more accurately the outcome of AML in India. These results are likely due to uniform treatment protocols, intensification of induction and post‐remission treatments with comprehensive supportive care.
Perfectionism at Work: An Investigation of Adaptive and Maladaptive Perfectionism in the Workplace among Canadian and Turkish Employees
Authors: Ozbilir Timur , Day Arla , Catano Victor M.
Published: January 2015

Although perfectionism has been studied extensively in clinical and educational settings, it has been relatively ignored in the work context, despite its potential effect on employee well‐being. Therefore, we examined the impact of perfectionism on work engagement, strain, and burnout using two samples of working adults from Canada and Turkey. Setting high standards was associated with higher engagement and lower strain and cynicism. However, setting high standards did not provide a unique contribution when controlling for conscientiousness, achievement striving, and achievement motivation. Perceived discrepancy between high standards and perceived performance was associated with higher levels of strain and burnout. There was a significant interaction between standards and discrepancy, such that low discrepancy was associated with lower strain than high discrepancy regardless of one's level of standards. Furthermore, high discrepancy was associated with higher strain when standards were low than when standards were high. Workers with high standards and low discrepancy (adaptive perfectionism) experienced lower strain than workers with high standards and high discrepancy (maladaptive perfectionism).
miRNA–Target Gene Regulatory Networks: A Bayesian Integrative Approach to Biomarker Selection with Application to Kidney Cancer
Authors: Chekouo Thierry , Stingo Francesco C. , Doecke James D. , Do Kim-Anh
Published: January 2015

The availability of cross-platform, large-scale genomic data has enabled the investigation of complex biological relationships for many cancers. Identification of reliable cancer-related biomarkers requires the characterization of multiple interactions across complex genetic networks. MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression; however, the direct relationship between a microRNA and its target gene is difficult to measure. We propose a novel Bayesian model to identify microRNAs and their target genes that are associated with survival time by incorporating the microRNA regulatory network through prior distributions. We assume that biomarkers involved in regulatory networks are likely associated with survival time. We employ non-local prior distributions and a stochastic search method for the selection of biomarkers associated with the survival outcome. We use KEGG pathway information to incorporate correlated gene effects within regulatory networks. Using simulation studies, we assess the performance of our method, and apply it to experimental data of kidney renal cell carcinoma (KIRC) obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Our novel method validates previously identified cancer biomarkers and identifies biomarkers specific to KIRC progression that were not previously discovered. Using the KIRC data, we confirm that biomarkers involved in regulatory networks are more likely to be associated with survival time, showing connections in one regulatory network for five out of six such genes we identified.
Classification of Longitudinal Data Through a Semiparametric Mixed-Effects Model Based on Lasso-Type Estimators
Authors: Arribas-Gil Ana , De la Cruz Rolando , Lebarbier Emilie , Meza Cristian
Published: January 2015

We propose a classification method for longitudinal data. The Bayes classifier is classically used to determine a classification rule where the underlying density in each class needs to be well modeled and estimated. This work is motivated by a real dataset of hormone levels measured at the early stages of pregnancy that can be used to predict normal versus abnormal pregnancy outcomes. The proposed model, which is a semiparametric linear mixed-effects model (SLMM), is a particular case of the semiparametric nonlinear mixed-effects class of models (SNMM) in which finite dimensional (fixed effects and variance components) and infinite dimensional (an unknown function) parameters have to be estimated. In SNMM's maximum likelihood estimation is performed iteratively alternating parametric and nonparametric procedures. However, if one can make the assumption that the random effects and the unknown function interact in a linear way, more efficient estimation methods can be used. Our contribution is the proposal of a unified estimation procedure based on a penalized EM-type algorithm. The Expectation and Maximization steps are explicit. In this latter step, the unknown function is estimated in a nonparametric fashion using a lasso-type procedure. A simulation study and an application on real data are performed.
Potential antitumor therapeutic application of Grimontia hollisae thermostable direct hemolysin mutants
Authors: Huang Sheng‐Cih , Wang Yu‐Kuo , Huang Wan‐Ting , Kuo Tsam‐Ming , Yip Bak‐Sau , Li Tien‐Hsiung Thomas , Wu Tung‐Kung
Published: January 2015

We report on the preparation of a new type of immunotoxin by conjugation of an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)‐binding peptide and an R46E mutation of thermostable direct hemolysin from Grimontia hollisae, (Gh‐TDHR46E/EB). The hybrid immunotoxin was purified to homogeneity and showed a single band with slight slower mobility than that of Gh‐TDHR46E. Cytotoxicity assay of Gh‐TDHR46E/EB on EGFR highly, moderately, low, and non‐expressed cells, A431, MDA‐MB‐231, HeLa, and HEK293 cells, respectively, showed apparent cytotoxicity on A431 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells but not on HeLa or HEK293 cells. In contrast, no cytotoxicity was observed for these cells treated with either Gh‐TDHR46E or EB alone, indicating enhanced cytotoxic efficacy of Gh‐TDHR46E by the EGFR binding moiety. Further antitumor activity assay of Gh‐TDHR46E/EB in a xenograft model of athymic nude mice showed obvious shrinkage of tumor size and degeneration, necrosis, and lesions of tumor tissues compared to the normal tissues. Therefore, the combination of Gh‐TDHR46E with target affinity agents opens new possibilities for pharmacological treatment of cancers and potentiates the anticancer drug's effect.
Differential Plasticity in the Recovery of Adopted Children After Early Adversity
Authors: Palacios Jesús , Román Maite , Moreno Carmen , León Esperanza , Peñarrubia María‐Gracia
Published: January 2015

Research on adoption is contributing to our understanding of developmental plasticity. As early adversity is usually involved in adoption, researchers can study both the negative consequences of such adversity and the catch‐up processes that follow once children are integrated into a protective, loving, and stimulating family context. In this article, we analyze postadoption recovery in three developmental domains: growth, neuropsychological development, and attachment. Given the existence of differential plasticity within each of these domains, generalizations about physical, neuropsychological, and emotional recovery should be avoided.
Children's Emotionality Moderates the Association Between Maternal Responsiveness and Allostatic Load: Investigation Into Differential Susceptibility
Authors: Dich Nadya , Doan Stacey N. , Evans Gary W.
Published: February 2015

While emotionality is often thought of as a risk factor, differential susceptibility theory argues that emotionality reflects susceptibility to both positive and negative environmental influences. The present study explored whether emotional children might be more susceptible to the effects of both high and low maternal responsiveness on allostatic load, a physiological indicator of chronic stress. Participants were 226 mother and child dyads. Mothers reported on children's emotionality at child age 9. Maternal responsiveness was measured at age 13 using self‐reports and behavioral observation. Allostatic load was measured at age 13 and 17 using neuroendocrine, cardiovascular, and metabolic biomarkers. Emotionality was associated with higher allostatic load if self‐reported responsiveness was low, but with lower allostatic load, when self‐reported responsiveness was high.
Pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis
Authors: Peng W. , Novak N.
Published: February 2015

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common allergic inflammatory skin disease. Interactions of genetic, environmental and immunological factors result in the initiation and progress of AD. Although the clinical picture, characterized by acute flare‐ups of eczematous, pruritic lesions on dry skin at typical predilection such as the flexural folds, is quite homogenous, the trigger factors of the disease are diverse and the pathophysiologic network involved is complex. Therefore, first attempts have been made to classify subtypes of AD based on the most relevant causal factors in the individual patient. To optimize such a stratification of patients, detailed knowledge about cofactors impacting on manifestation of AD as well as impairment of the course of the disease is indispensable. AD shares general features of barrier dysfunction and skin inflammation with other inflammatory diseases of the skin such as psoriasis or allergic contact dermatitis, but a plethora of disease‐specific genetic, immunologic and environmental factors have been identified in AD as well. It is the purpose of this review to illustrate key concepts of the pathogenesis of AD. Important findings of recent years will be summarized and cofactors of the pathogenesis will be controversially discussed. We will summarize knowledge on pathogenic factors on the immunologic level contributing to skin barrier dysfunction in AD and the role of the microbiome as first line of defence. Furthermore, we will elucidate the role of innate lymphoid cells in AD and outline the pattern of T helper cell subtypes present in the skin during different stages of AD.
Effect of a 4‐week weight maintenance diet on circulating hormone levels: implications for clinical weight loss trials
Authors: Sainsbury A. , Evans I. R. , Wood R. E. , Seimon R. V. , King N. A. , Hills A. P. , Byrne N. M.
Published: February 2015

The majority of weight loss studies fail to standardize conditions such as diet and exercise via a weight maintenance period prior to commencement of the trial. This study aimed to determine whether a weight stabilization period is necessary to establish stable baseline hormone concentrations. Fifty‐one obese male participants with a body mass index of 30–40 kg m−2 and aged 25–54 years underwent 4 weeks on an energy balance diet that was designed to achieve weight stability. Blood samples were collected in the fasting state at commencement and completion of the 4‐week period, and circulating concentrations of 18 commonly measured hormones were determined. During the 4‐week weight maintenance period, participants achieved weight stability within −1.5 ± 0.2 kg (−1.4 ± 0.2%) of their initial body weight. Significant reductions in serum insulin (by 18 ± 6.5%) and leptin (by 21 ± 6.0%) levels occurred, but no significant changes were observed for gut‐derived appetite‐regulating hormones (ghrelin and peptide YY), nor thyroid, adrenal, gonadal or somatotropic hormones. There were no significant correlations between the change in body weight and the change in circulating concentrations of insulin or leptin over the 4‐week period, indicating that the observed changes were not due to weight loss, albeit significant negative correlations were observed between the changes in body weight and plasma ghrelin and peptide YY levels. This study demonstrates the need for baseline weight maintenance periods to stabilize serum levels of insulin and leptin in studies specifically investigating effects on these parameters in the obese. However, this does not apply to circulating levels of gut‐derived appetite‐regulating hormones (ghrelin and peptide YY), nor thyroid, adrenal, gonadal or somatotropic hormones.
Quantitative Assessment of Right Ventricular Volumes and Ejection Fraction in Patients with Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction by Real Time Three‐Dimensional Echocardiography versus Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Kim Jiwon , Cohen Scott B. , Atalay Michael K. , Maslow Andrew D. , Poppas Athena
Published: January 2015

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy and reproducibility of real time three‐dimensional echocardiographic (RT3DE) for the determination of right ventricular (RV) volumes and function in patients with left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction.

Methods and Results

Dedicated RT3DE was prospectively performed to assess RV volumes and EF in patients with LV systolic function identified on routine clinical cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging. RV end‐diastolic volume (RV EDV), RV end‐systolic volume (RV ESV), and RV EF were obtained using an offline analysis software (TomTec) by two observers blinded to CMR results. In this population of 27 patients with LV systolic dysfunction with a mean LV EF of 36 ± 12%, RV RT3DE dataset could be assessed in 27 of 30 patients (90%). High correlation was noted between RT3DE and CMR for RV EDV, ESV, and EF (r = 0.90, 0.89, and 0.77, respectively). RV EDV was lower by RT3DE as compared to CMR (129 ± 52 vs. 142 ± 53 mL, P = 0.005) while there was no significant difference in RV ESV and RV EF (71 ± 37 vs. 77 ± 45 mL, P = 0.146; 45 ± 11 vs. 48 ± 13%, P = 0.134, respectively). The intraclass correlation coefficient ranged from 0.94 to 0.94 between measurements and from 0.84 to 0.96 between observers.

Conclusion

Overall, RV volumes and EF assessed by RT3DE correlate well with CMR measurements in patients with LV dysfunction. RT3DE may be used as a more widely available and versatile alternative to CMR for the quantitative assessment of RV size and function in patients with LV dysfunction.
Land‐use effects on the functional distinctness of arthropod communities
Authors: Birkhofer Klaus , Smith Henrik G. , Weisser Wolfgang W. , Wolters Volkmar , Gossner Martin M.
Published: January 2015

Land‐use change is a major driver of the global loss of biodiversity, but it is unclear to what extent this also results in a loss of ecological traits. Therefore, a better understanding of how land‐use change affects ecological traits is crucial for efforts to sustain functional diversity. To this end we tested whether higher species richness or taxonomic distinctness generally leads to increased functional distinctness and whether intensive land use leads to functionally more narrow arthropod communities. We compiled species composition and trait data for 350 species of terrestrial arthropods (Araneae, Carabidae and Heteroptera) in different land‐use types (forests, grasslands and arable fields) of low and high land‐use intensity. We calculated the average functional and taxonomic distinctness and the rarified trait richness for each community. These measures reflect the range of traits, taxonomic relatedness and number of traits that are observed in local communities. Average functional distinctness only increased significantly with species richness in Carabidae communities. Functional distinctness increased significantly with taxonomic distinctness in communities of all analyzed taxa suggesting a high functional redundancy of taxonomically closely related species. Araneae and Heteroptera communities had the expected lower functional distinctness at sites with higher land‐use intensity. More frequently disturbed land‐use types such as managed grasslands or arable fields were characterized by species with smaller body sizes and higher dispersal abilities and communities with lower functional distinctness or trait richness. Simple recommendations about the conservation of functional distinctness of arthropod communities in the face of future land‐use intensification and species loss are not possible. Our study shows that these relationships depend on the studied taxa and land‐use type. However, for some arthropod groups functional distinctness is threatened by intensification and conversion from less to more frequently disturbed land‐uses.
Association of alcohol use disorders with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a Swedish national cohort study
Authors: Ji J. , Sundquist J. , Sundquist K.
Published: January 2015

Background and purpose

Cigarette smoking is associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but the association between alcohol consumption and ALS is not clear. Our aim was to clarify this using a national cohort study design in Sweden.

Methods

Individuals with alcohol use disorders (AUDs) were identified from several nationwide registers, and they were linked to the Swedish Hospital Discharge and Outpatients Registers to identify the incidence of ALS. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) were used to examine the risk of ALS amongst individuals with AUDs compared to those without AUDs.

Results

A total of 7965 patients were diagnosed with ALS during the study period 1973–2010. The incidence of ALS amongst individuals with AUD was lower compared to individuals without AUD with an overall SIR of 0.54 (95% confidence interval 0.45–0.63). The study population was further stratified by gender, educational attainment, birth country, follow‐up period and a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (as a proxy for smoking), and the observed inverse association between AUD and ALS was consistent for all the stratified analyses.

Conclusions

In this follow‐up study, heavy alcohol consumption, as shown by registration for AUD, was inversely associated with the incidence of ALS. However, further studies are needed to disentangle the contribution of other potential confounding factors on the observed association.
Serum Th1/Th2 and macrophage lineage cytokines in leprosy; correlation with circulating CD4+CD25highFoxP3+ T‐regs cells
Authors: Abdallah Marwa , Attia Enas A. S. , Saad Abeer A. , El‐Khateeb Ekramy A. , Lotfi Rania A. , Abdallah Mahmoud , El‐Shennawy Dina
Published: January 2015

Not only macrophages, T‐helper (Th)1 and Th2, but also CD4+ CD25highFoxP3+ regulatory T cells (T‐regs) are involved in immune response to Mycobacterium leprae. We aimed to evaluate serum interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐12p70 (macrophage cytokines), interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) (Th1 cytokine), IL‐4 (Th2 cytokine) and circulating CD4+ CD25highFoxP3+ T‐regs, in untreated leprosy patients. Forty three patients and 40 controls were assessed for the mentioned cytokines using ELISA. Patients were assessed for circulating T‐regs using flow cytometry. Patients were subgrouped into tuberculoid (TT), pure neural leprosy (PNL), borderline cases, lepromatous (LL), type 1 reactional leprosy (RL1) and erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL). Serum IL‐12p70, IFN‐γ and IL‐4 were significantly higher in patients versus controls (P < 0.05). Serum IL‐4 was highest in LL and lowest in RL1 (P = 0.003). Serum IL‐1β levels was significantly higher in multibacillary versus paucibacillary patients (P = 0.006). Significantly higher T‐regs levels was detected in TT, RL1 and PNL, while the lowest levels in ENL(P < 0.001), with significant differences versus controls (P < 0.05). FoxP3 expression% was significantly lower in PNL than other patients and controls (P < 0.05). T‐regs/T‐effs was lowest in ENL(P < 0.05). IFN‐γ correlated positively with T‐regs but negatively with IL‐1β (P = 0.041&0.046 respectively), which correlated positively with T‐effs%( P = 0.05). IL‐4 correlated positively with T‐regs FoxP3 expression% (P = 0.009). We concluded that: Circulating T‐regs were increased in TT, RL1 and PNL patients, known of relatively high cell‐mediated immunity. This finding was supported by low FoxP3 expression (in PNL) and correlation between T‐regs count and IFN‐γ level. Overproduction of IL‐4 in LL may infer liability to develop ENL, with disease progression and immune hyperactivation, marked by deficient T‐regs and increased T‐regs FoxP3 expression%. IL‐1β probably has a pro‐inflammatory role in multibacillary patients as correlated with T‐effs%.
A simple approach for assigning the conservation status of freshwater fish based on their natural variability – a case study from the Iberian Ecoregion
Authors: Sánchez‐Hernández J. , Cobo F. , Amundsen P.‐A.
Published: January 2015

A simple, non‐lethal method for assigning conservation status is proposed based on three conservation classes (favourable, unfavourable/inadequate and unfavourable/bad) to fish species based on their natural population variability. To demonstrate this approach, conservation classes were allocated to three native fish species (brown troutSalmo truttaL., northern Iberian chubSqualius carolitertii(Doadrio), and northern straight‐mouth nase,Pseudochondrostoma duriense(Coelho) based on basic population variables (density and biomass) using a 9‐year dataset (2004–2012) from 15 different sampling sites in Spain. The classification of the population variables into conservation classes was made using previously described nonparametric methods and percentiles categorisation, and the current conservation status of the studied species was established. Temporal trend analyses showed thatS. carolitertiiexperienced a progressive significant decrease during the study period, whereas bothS. truttaandP. durienseexhibited weak increases in density. The study exemplifies the need to quantify the natural variability of fish resources to reveal their current conservation status and to determine whether short‐term and long‐term management actions are needed to rehabilitate native fish assemblages. The proposed approach could easily be employed by fisheries managers to monitor the conservational status of other native species.
Desert journeys: from exploration to covert operations
Authors: Forsyth Isla
Published: February 2015

This paper explores the entangled relationship between geographical knowledge and covert warfare through a study of soldier and desert explorer Ralph Bagnold. On Italy's declaration of war in 1940 the British military became engaged in a process of transforming the desert plains of the Middle East into an unnerving, obscure battlefield. General Wavell, Commander in Chief, ensured he drew upon those with a grounded understanding of this shifting terrain. Bagnold drew Wavell's attention because he had previously conducted pioneering aeolian research (later published as the seminal The physics of blown sand and desert dunes 1941, Methuen), as well as having developed desert‐based technologies for exploration. Due to Bagnold's intimate knowledge of the desert he was perfectly positioned to be charged with a small, specially equipped force that could wreak havoc behind enemy lines; a covert unit known as the Long Range Desert Group (LRDG). This study of Bagnold's desert exploration and the emergence of the LRDG in WWII will uncover how geographical knowledge became engrained within the prosecution of desert warfare. The paper explores the ways in which the particularities of the desert shaped technologies of mobilities and covert methods of conflict and how the geographies of the desert have been informed through military‐inflected exploration combined with technological innovation.
Identification of a novel role for Drosophila MESR4 in lipid metabolism
Authors: Tsuda‐Sakurai Kayoko , Seong Ki‐Hyeon , Horiuchi Junjiro , Aigaki Toshiro , Tsuda Manabu
Published: January 2015

Drosophila provides a powerful genetic model to analyze lipid metabolism. Drosophila has an adipose‐like organ called the fat body, which plays a crucial role in energy homeostasis. Here, we conducted a fat body‐specific misexpression screen to identify genes involved in lipid metabolism. We found that over‐expression of a nuclear protein with nine C2H2 type zinc‐finger motifs and a PHD‐finger, Misexpression suppressor of ras 4 (MESR4), reduces lipid accumulation in the fat body, whereas MESR4 knockdown increases it. We further show that MESR4 up‐regulates the expression of major lipases, which may account for the reduction in lipid storage in the fat body and the release of free fatty acids (FFAs) in the body. These results suggest that MESR4 acts as an important upstream regulator of energy homeostasis.
Gender Issues on Change Agenda – Practising Intersectionality in Action Research
Authors: Heiskanen Tuula , Otonkorpi‐Lehtoranta Katri , Leinonen Minna , Ylöstalo Hanna
Published: January 2015

This article investigates how intersectionalities are handled in the orientations and positions of organization members when conducting feminist action research in workplaces. The Finnish Defence Forces are used as an empirical example of a hierarchical and gendered organization. The article employs the work conference method based on democratic dialogue with the aim of bringing together the divergent experiences and perspectives of the organization's members. Our interpretation is that the intersectional application of the work conference method reveals issues that would not have otherwise arisen. The method helps to highlight the habits and routines that are taken for granted in organizations. We suggest the use of the method both for identifying patterns of inequalities and for seeking remedies for them. The experiences gained from the empirical study support a multi‐method approach to action research. A more theory‐based consciousness of social positions and their interconnections will serve the development process. As a result, action research efforts might also become better anchored in organizational structures and practices.