bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case study of bats and white‐nose syndrome demonstrating how to model population viability with evolutionary effects
Authors: Maslo Brooke , Fefferman Nina H.
Published: March 2015

Ecological factors generally affect population viability on rapid time scales. Traditional population viability analyses (PVA) therefore focus on alleviating ecological pressures, discounting potential evolutionary impacts on individual phenotypes. Recent studies of evolutionary rescue (ER) focus on cases in which severe, environmentally induced population bottlenecks trigger a rapid evolutionary response that can potentially reverse demographic threats. ER models have focused on shifting genetics and resulting population recovery, but no one has explored how to incorporate those findings into PVA. We integrated ER into PVA to identify the critical decision interval for evolutionary rescue (DIER) under which targeted conservation action should be applied to buffer populations undergoing ER against extinction from stochastic events and to determine the most appropriate vital rate to target to promote population recovery. We applied this model to little brown bats (Myotis lucifugus) affected by white‐nose syndrome (WNS), a fungal disease causing massive declines in several North American bat populations. Under the ER scenario, the model predicted that the DIER period for little brown bats was within 11 years of initial WNS emergence, after which they stabilized at a positive growth rate (λ = 1.05). By comparing our model results with population trajectories of multiple infected hibernacula across the WNS range, we concluded that ER is a potential explanation of observed little brown bat population trajectories across multiple hibernacula within the affected range. Our approach provides a tool that can be used by all managers to provide testable hypotheses regarding the occurrence of ER in declining populations, suggest empirical studies to better parameterize the population genetics and conservation‐relevant vital rates, and identify the DIER period during which management strategies will be most effective for species conservation.
Political Ecology of Commodity Agroforests and Tropical Biodiversity
Authors: Robbins Paul , Chhatre Ashwini , Karanth Krithi
Published: March 2015

Though human‐modified tropical landscapes are increasingly well studied, the processes that influence and govern biodiversity outcomes, especially in commodity production landscapes (e.g., coffee, rubber, arecanut), remain poorly understood. A review of the existing literature reveals that research in general focuses on individual components of a cascading set of relationships from political and economic forces, to producer decisions, to agroforestry structure, to habitat and diversity. The linkages between these components remains underdeveloped; efforts to unite the full “chain of explanation” remains elusive, making it difficult to form firm claims or testable hypotheses about how the ecology and biodiversity of such commodity systems are determined. To form more robust hypotheses about such relationships would require more integrative team efforts than heretofore have been common. Our review suggests that though some important relationships are well‐understood, and some emerging policy emphases can be identified, policy‐relevant science is still on the horizon in this frontier area.
Long‐term follow up of 103 ankylosed permanent incisors surgically treated with decoronation – a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Malmgren Barbro , Tsilingaridis Georgios , Malmgren Olle
Published: March 2015

Background/Aim

Decoronation is a technique developed in 1984 to remove ankylosed teeth and increase marginal bone levels in young, growing individuals. This retrospective cohort study evaluates marginal bone development after decoronation in relation to gender and age at treatment.

Materials and methods

The study evaluated all 95 patients with 103 ankylosed permanent incisors treated with decoronation at the Eastmaninstitutet Department of Pediatric Dentistry during 1978–1999. Mean age of the patients was 10.7 years (6.8–17.8) at the time of trauma and 14.9 years (9.3–22.0) at decoronation. The mean follow‐up period was 4.6 years (1.0–19.3 years). The study evaluated development of the marginal alveolar bone level with a three‐point scoring system: 1 = Unchanged or reduced alveolar bone level, 2 = A moderate increase in alveolar bone level, and 3 = A considerable increase in alveolar bone level. The final group for statistical evaluation comprised 75 patients: 56 boys and 19 girls who had only one tooth decoronated. Kappa statistics showed almost complete agreement between the two observers (κ = 0.90).

Results

Bone level changes were significantly correlated (P < 0.05) to gender and age at treatment. In decoronations performed after the age of 16, bone levels were unchanged or reduced, while decoronations performed at a mean age of 14.6 years in boys and 13 years in girls yielded a considerable increase in bone levels.

Conclusion

This study indicates that age at decoronation is an important factor for favorable development of the alveolar ridge and that decoronation should be performed earlier in girls.
Gender differences in one‐year outcomes of first‐presentation psychosis patients in inner‐city UK Early Intervention Services
Authors: Tseliou Foteini , Johnson Sonia , Major Barnaby , Rahaman Nikola , Joyce John , Lawrence Jo , Mann Farhana , Tapfumaneyi Andrew , Chisholm Brock , Chamberlain‐Kent Nick , Hinton Mark F. , Fisher Helen L. ,   MiData Consortium
Published: March 2015

Aim

Men and women have historically been shown to differ in their presentation and outcome of psychotic disorders and thus are likely to have different treatment needs. It is unclear whether Early Intervention Services (EIS) are able to provide equitable care for both men and women presenting for the first time with psychosis. The main aim of this study was to explore gender differences for first‐presentation psychosis patients at the time of their referral to inner‐city EIS and their outcomes 1 year later.

Methods

Audit data were utilized from 1098 first‐presentation psychosis patients from seven EIS across London, UK, collected via the computerized MiData package. Binary logistic regression was employed to detect potential associations between gender and (i) initial clinical presentation (including duration of untreated psychosis, pathways to care, risk behaviours); and (ii) 1‐year clinical and functional outcomes.

Results

At entry to EIS, male patients presented with more violent behaviour whereas female patients had more suicide attempts. Following 1 year of EIS care, men still presented as more violent towards others whereas women were more likely to have been admitted to a psychiatric ward.

Conclusion

Gender differences in clinical outcome, service use and risk behaviours were apparent within the first year of specialist psychosis care. This may be partly due to the different pathways to care taken by men and women and differences in clinical presentation. Greater focus on the specific needs of each gender by EIS in detection and intervention is required to improve equality of outcome.
Role of social media and the Internet in pathways to care for adolescents and young adults with psychotic disorders and non‐psychotic mood disorders
Authors: Birnbaum Michael L. , Rizvi Asra F. , Correll Christoph U. , Kane John M. , Confino Jamie
Published: March 2015

Aims

Although psychosis often occurs during adolescence, there has been little research on how the ubiquitously used Internet and social media could impact pathways to care. We examined how youth with psychotic spectrum disorders (PSD) versus non‐psychotic mood disorders (NPMD) use online resources in the early illness stages.

Methods

Social media use and pathways to care data were collected using a semi‐structured interview from 80 youth (PSD = 40 and NPMD = 40) aged 12–21 years within 2 years of symptom onset.

Results

A total of 97.5% of participants (mean age = 18.3 years) regularly used social media, spending approximately 2.6 ± 2.5 h per day online. There were 22.4% of our sample (PSD = 19.4%, NPMD = 25.0%, P = 0.56) who reported waiting to reach out for help believing that symptoms would disappear. A total of 76.5% (PSD = 67.5%, NPMD = 85.0%, P = 0.06) noticed social media habit changes during symptom emergence. Thirty per cent reported discussing their symptoms on social media (PSD = 22.5%, NPMD = 37.5%, P = 0.14). NPMD patients sought information most on how to stop symptoms (40.0% vs. 13.5%, P = 0.01), while PSD youth were more commonly interested in what caused their symptoms (21.6% vs. 15.0%, P = 0.45). More PSD patients (42.9% vs. 25.0%, P = 0.10) would prefer to receive mental health information via the Internet. Altogether, 63.6% (PSD = 64.9%, NPMD = 62.5%, P = 0.83) were amenable to clinicians proactively approaching them via social media during symptom emergence. A total of 74.3% (PSD = 78.4%, NPMD = 70.0%, P = 0.40) liked the idea of obtaining help/advice from professionals via social media.

Conclusions

The Internet and social media provide an unparalleled opportunity to supplement and potentially transform early intervention services, and acceptance of this approach appears to be high.
How can we increase physical activity and exercise among youth experiencing first‐episode psychosis? A systematic review of intervention variables
Authors: Rosenbaum Simon , Lederman Oscar , Stubbs Brendon , Vancampfort Davy , Stanton Robert , Ward Philip B.
Published: March 2015

Aims

To review intervention variables and outcomes of studies designed to increase physical activity or exercise participation among people experiencing first‐episode psychosis.

Methods

A systematic review of electronic databases was conducted from inception to November 2014.

Results

Eleven eligible studies describing 12 interventions were included (n = 351; 14–35 years) incorporating health coaching (n = 5), exercise prescriptions based on physiological parameters (e.g. heart rate) (n = 3), supervised, individually tailored programmes (n = 2), an Internet‐delivered intervention and a yoga intervention. The majority of the interventions were delivered over 12 weeks (n = 6) and in community settings (n = 11). Five studies assessed aerobic capacity (VO2 max or VO2 peak) and three studies assessed self‐reported physical activity levels.

Conclusions

Considerable heterogeneity in the design, implementation and assessment of interventions was found. There is an urgent need to better understand how physical activity can be increased in line with the internationally endorsed HeaL (Healthy Active Lives) Declaration 5‐year physical activity target.
Cytomegalovirus reactivation in patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Hasegawa Tetsuo , Aisa Yoshinobu , Shimazaki Kengo , Ito Chisako , Nakazato Tomonori
Published: March 2015

The introduction of novel antimyeloma agents has improved the outcome of multiple myeloma (MM) dramatically. However, it has also led to an increasing incidence of Herpesviridae family virus infections, including a high incidence of post‐transplant cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation after treatment with novel agents. We herein retrospectively assessed the CMV reactivation in all 120 newly diagnosed patients with MM consecutively seen and treated at our hospital. CMV antigenemia tests were ordered in 58 patients depending on the clinical context, and the incidence of CMV reactivation and proven/suspected CMV disease requiring antiviral therapy was 20% (24 of 120) and 11% (13 of 120) respectively, including those without stem cell transplantation (SCT). The clinical and laboratory characteristics of these patients were compared with those in 34 CMV antigenemia‐negative (CMV‐negative) patients. Patients with extramedullary disease or a low absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) had a higher risk of developing CMV reactivation. In addition, the median duration from the time of MM diagnosis to CMV reactivation was 5.0 months. These results suggest that, regardless of whether or not undergoing SCT, elderly patients with MM receiving novel agents should be monitored for CMV reactivation to allow for the timely diagnosis and treatment, especially for those with extramedullary disease.
The effect of soil moisture, soil particle size, litter layer and carbonic anhydrase on the oxygen isotopic composition of soil‐released CO2
Authors: Von Sperber C. , Weiler M. , Brüggemann N.
Published: March 2015

Soil respiration and photosynthesis are the two largest carbon dioxide (CO2) fluxes between terrestrial ecosystems and the atmosphere and, therefore, the dominant processes influencing the oxygen isotopic composition of atmospheric CO2. The characterization of temporal and spatial variations of plant and soil‐related fluxes of different oxygen isotopologues of CO2 (12C16O2; 12C16O18O) is relevant to constraining the global carbon budget. The oxygen isotopic composition of soil‐respired CO2 is controlled by its release rate, the degree of isotopic equilibrium with soil water and the diffusional transport of CO2. The hypothesis of this study was that, as well as soil moisture, the soil particle size, the presence of an organic litter layer and the enzyme carbonic anhydrase (CA) would have a significant impact on the oxygen isotopic composition of soil‐released CO2. We tested this hypothesis with soil microcosm experiments on columns of medium and fine sand. Soil water content and soil texture influenced the isotopic composition of soil‐released CO2 significantly. A litter layer had a significant effect on the isotopic composition of water vapour but not on CO2 released from soil. In the absence of CA, oxygen isotope equilibration between the CO2 invasion flux and soil water was insignificant, whereas in the presence of CA about 55% of the CO2 invading the soil exchanged oxygen isotopes with soil water. Our findings highlight the importance of small‐scale variability of soil attributes for the oxygen isotopic composition of soil‐released CO2 as well as the strong impact of CA activity in soils.
Intrinsic dynamics of the regional community
Authors: Ricklefs Robert E.
Published: March 2015

Patterns of diversity within large regional biotas express the outcomes of processes, operating on both regional and local scales, that influence evolutionary diversification as well as the distribution and abundance of species. Regional analyses of species distributions suggest that neither ecological sorting of species based on their adaptations to the physical environment, nor interactions between competing species, adequately explain patterns of species richness. Potentially competing species appear to utilise broadly overlapping resources with similar proficiency. Phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses reveal that species abundances and distributions within regions vary independently of evolutionary relationship. This implies the existence of dynamic, species‐specific controls on population growth, as could be applied by specialised pathogens or other antagonists. Here, I argue that the changing balance of coevolved interactions between hosts and their antagonists shapes the distribution and abundance of individual host populations as well as patterns of local species richness. Geographical expansion creates allopatric populations and thereby could promote diversification; contraction ultimately leads to extinction. This taxon‐cycle dynamic links regional diversity and distribution to intrinsic biological interactions independently of extrinsic ecological conditions. These hypotheses emphasise the central importance of investigating the impacts of pathogens on species abundance and distribution, and the potential consequences of coevolutionary changes in pathogen‐host relationships for species formation and extinction.
Does adherence to epilepsy quality measures correlate with reduced epilepsy‐related adverse hospitalizations? A retrospective experience
Authors: Ladner Travis R. , Morgan Clinton D. , Pomerantz Daniel J. , Kennedy Vanessa E. , Azar Nabil , Haas Kevin , Lagrange Andre , Gallagher Martin , Singh Pradumna , Abou‐Khalil Bassel W. , Arain Amir M.
Published: March 2015

In 2011, the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) established eight epilepsy quality measures (EQMs) for chronic epilepsy treatment to address deficits in quality of care. This study assesses the relationship between adherence to these EQMs and epilepsy‐related adverse hospitalizations (ERAHs). A retrospective chart review of 475 new epilepsy clinic patients with an ICD‐9 code 345.1‐9 between 2010 and 2012 was conducted. Patient demographics, adherence to AAN guidelines, and annual number of ERAHs were assessed. Fisher's exact test was used to assess the relationship between adherence to guidelines (as well as socioeconomic variables) and the presence of one or more ERAH per year. Of the eight measures, only documentation of seizure frequency, but not seizure type, correlated with ERAH (relative risk [RR] 0.343, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.176–0.673, p = 0.010). Among patients in the intellectually disabled population (n = 70), only review/request of neuroimaging correlated with ERAH (RR 0.128, 95% CI 0.016–1.009, p = 0.004). ERAHs were more likely in African American patients (RR 2.451, 95% CI 1.377–4.348, p = 0.008), Hispanic/Latino patients (RR 4.016, 95% CI 1.721–9.346, p = 0.016), Medicaid patients (RR 2.217, 95% CI 1.258–3.712, p = 0.009), and uninsured patients (RR 2.667, 95% CI 1.332–5.348, p = 0.013). In this retrospective series, adherence to the eight AAN quality measures did not strongly correlate with annual ERAH.
Ultrasonographic appearance of normal and injured lateral patellar ligaments in the equine stifle
Authors: Gottlieb R. , Whitcomb M. B. , Vaughan B. , Galuppo L. D. , Spriet M.
Published: March 2015

Reasons for performing study

Ultrasound is widely used in horses with stifle lameness, yet limited information is available regarding the appearance of normal and injured lateral patellar ligaments (LPL).

Objectives

To map the normal ultrasonographic appearance of the LPL. To describe the clinical and ultrasonographic features of LPL injuries.

Study design

Descriptive study of healthy horses and retrospective case series.

Methods

Twelve horses without stifle lameness underwent ultrasonographic examination of bilateral LPLs and ultrasonographic features were recorded. Eighteen horses with LPL injury were identified from 1999 to 2011.

Results

The normal LPL changes in appearance from origin to insertion. It shows ill‐defined margins at the patella, becomes flattened and bilobed over the lateral trochlear ridge, is oval‐triangular shaped with variable echogenicity and fibre pattern distal to the LTR, and becomes tapered with striations at the tibial insertion. LPL injury was identified in 18 horses of multiple breeds and uses. All injuries were acute, and 12 had wounds. Eleven horses were severely lame (grade 4–5/5). Ultrasonographic lesions were severe in 78% of cases. The mid to insertional portion of the LPL was most often affected. Radiography showed fractures of the tibial tuberosity (n = 6), patella (n = 4) and lateral trochlear ridge (n = 1). Fractures involved LPL attachments in 9 horses. Five were treated for osteomyelitis and one for synovial sepsis. Recheck ultrasound in 4 horses showed minimal to no change in the appearance of LPL injuries. Nine horses returned to riding, one continued as a broodmare, 2 were retired, one became a broodmare, 2 were lost to follow‐up and 3 were subjected to euthanasia owing to concurrent injuries.

Conclusion

Normal variations in shape, echogenicity and fibre pattern of the LPL are important considerations to prevent false positive diagnoses during ultrasonography. LPL injuries were often severe and associated with craniolateral stifle trauma. Prognosis varied from good to guarded in horses without additional severe injuries.
Development of a chemically defined in vitro culture system to effectively stimulate the proliferation of adult human dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Kim Min Seong , Yun Jung Im , Gong Seung Pyo , Ahn Ji Yeon , Lim Jeong Mook , Song Young Han , Park Kyu Hyun , Lee Seung Tae
Published: March 2015

Despite the fact that dermal fibroblasts are a practical model for research related to cell physiology and cell therapy, an in vitro culture system excluding serum, which complicates standardization and specificity and induces variability and unwanted effects, does not exist. We tried to establish a CDCS that supports effective proliferation of aHDFs. KDMEM supplemented with 5% (v/v) KSR, 12 ng/ml bFGF, 5 ng/ml EGF and 1 μg/ml hydrocortisone supported sufficient proliferation of aHDFs for 1 week. However, aHDF proliferation was decreased greatly after subculture. This problem could be overcome by culturing aHDFs in CDCM in culture plates coated with 10 μg/ml FN. Long‐term culture of aHDFs was achieved using CDCM and FN‐coated culture plates for 7 weeks. The optimized CDCS increased the proliferation of aHDFs significantly, without any increase in the senescence rate or alteration in morphology of aHDFs, despite long‐term culture. In conclusion, we established a CDCS that improved proliferation of aHDFs while inhibiting cellular senescence. The CDCS will contribute to advances in various future research related to clinical skin regeneration.
Effect of new curcumin‐containing nanostructured lipid dispersions on human keratinocytes proliferative responses
Authors: Esposito Elisabetta , Sticozzi Claudia , Ravani Laura , Drechsler Markus , Muresan Ximena M. , Cervellati Franco , Cortesi Rita , Valacchi Giuseppe
Published: March 2015

This study describes the production and characterization of nanostructured lipid dispersions (NLDs) containing curcumin (CUR) as new tools for curcumin topical delivery. Four types of NLDs based on monoolein in association with different emulsifiers were produced: Na cholate and poloxamer 407 (NLD1), poloxamer alone (NLD2), the mixture of Na cholate and Na caseinate (NLD3) and Na cholate alone (NLD4). Morphology and dimensional distribution of lipid dispersions were investigated by cryo‐TEM and photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS). In vitro studies based on Franz cell, membrane nylon and stratum corneum–epidermis (SCE) were carried out to compare the four NLDs in terms of cytotoxicity in human keratinocytes and CUR diffusion. Our PCS studies showed differences in particles diameter among the different NLDs. In addition, cytotoxicity results in HaCaT cells evidenced that NLD1 and NLD2 were toxic at doses over 1 μm. Therefore, cryo‐TEM was determined only for NLD3 and NLD4 showing that CUR did not affect their structure. Diffusion measurement in SCE and nylon membrane evidenced that CUR had a time‐delayed release for NLD4. The ‘wound healing’ effect of NLD3 and NLD4 with and without CUR analysed keratinocytes in vitro, and a clear inhibition of cell proliferation/migration by CUR was observed. This effect was mediated by the inhibition of cyclin D1 expression as a consequence of the impaired NFkB activation. This study confirms the antiproliferative properties of CUR and evidenced a new possible model of CUR topical delivery for hyperproliferative cutaneous diseases such as psoriasis.
Experimental investigation and life prediction of hot corrosion pre‐exposure on low‐cycle fatigue of a directionally solidified nickel‐base superalloy
Authors: Li S. L. , Yang X. G. , Qi H. Y. , Ma L. Q. , Yang J. S. , Shi D. Q.
Published: March 2015

Low‐cycle fatigue tests were conducted on the directionally solidified nickel‐base superalloy DZ125 at 850 °C in the unexposed and exposed specimens for 2, 15, 25 and 50 h in hot corrosion environment. The pre‐exposed specimen exhibited a lower life than unexposed specimens. Fatigue cracks in the unexposed specimens are initiated from defects near the surface, while the cracks of exposed specimens preferentially occur on the surface. Hot corrosion damage in fatigue life was found to be associated with the reduction of the bearing area. A novel life prediction methodology based on continuum damage mechanics was proposed to predict the experimentally observed decrease in low‐cycle fatigue life with increasing prior exposure time.
Effects of seed traits on the potential for seed dispersal by fish with contrasting modes of feeding
Authors: Boedeltje Ger , Spanings Tom , Flik Gert , Pollux Bart J. A. , Sibbing Ferdinand A. , Verberk Wilco C. E. P.
Published: March 2015

For aquatic and riparian plants, the important role of fish in seed dispersal is increasingly recognised. While the propensity of seeds to disperse is known to be a function of morphological, physical and chemical traits of the seed, in the case of fish‐mediated seed dispersal (ichthyochory), it is largely unknown how seed traits modulate the potential for seed ingestion and their subsequent survival through the gut. Furthermore, which seed traits are important may vary among fish species.

To evaluate the role of both seed and fish traits in ichthyochory, we fed seeds of 19 aquatic and riparian plant species to fish with differing feeding mechanisms. Cyprinus carpio (common carp) has a pharyngeal ‘mill’, which it uses physically to crush hard food, while Oreochromis mossambicus (Mozambique tilapia) has only tiny oral and pharyngeal teeth and instead relies more on chemical digestion.

A number of seed traits, including hardness, size and shape, were important determinants of the potential of seeds for ichthyochory. Certain traits (e.g. seed dimensions) were more important during ingestion, whereas other traits were more important for seed survival and subsequent germination (e.g. seed hardness, mucilaginous coat). Compared to controls, germination of retrieved seeds in carp was lower in 10 and higher in two plant species, whereas for tilapia, it was lower in seven and higher in three species. Overlap between these plant species was low, indicating clear difference between the fish studied in their potential for seed dispersal. Carp increased in size during the experiment and concomitant decreases in seed survival and retrieval were found, suggesting that body size and the correlated bite force is an important fish trait in ichthyochory.

Overall, seed hardness, size and shape appear crucial for the survival of seeds passing through the guts of carp and tilapia. Beyond this general pattern, a greater complexity of trait‐performance relationships appeared: different seed traits are involved during each of the stages of ichthyochory. Moreover, the importance of seed traits differed between carp and tilapia, with some traits having interactive and contrasting effects in both fish species. Aquatic plants with floating seeds adapted to hydrochorous dispersal were less likely to be dispersed by tilapia than plants with non‐floating seeds, suggesting a dispersal trade‐off between ichthyochory and hydrochory. Thus, depending on their seed characteristics, fish may offer an additional dispersal route to aquatic and riparian plants.
Thirty‐year variations of above‐ground net primary production and precipitation‐use efficiency of an alpine meadow in the north‐eastern Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Li H. , Zhang F. , Li Y. , Zhao X. , Cao G.
Published: March 2015

Above‐ground net primary production (ANPP) and precipitation‐use efficiency (PUE) are key factors that can clarify the response of grassland ecosystem carbon and water cycles to ongoing climate change. The variations of ANPP and PUE were analysed based on long‐term in situ observations of a species‐rich alpine meadow in the north‐eastern Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau from 1981 to 2010. ANPP and PUE increased markedly over time. ANPP was significantly controlled by post‐growing season length (from 1 September to the end of growing season in the previous year, R2 = 0·31, P < 0·01). Regression trees showed that air temperature during October of the previous year played a predominant role in ANPP annual variations. Results indicated that a strong thermal‐lagging effect on ANPP variations was present in the alpine meadow ecosystem. ANPP variations were undetectable during wet, normal and dry years (P = 0·25). Our finding supported the hypothesis that temporal site‐specific ANPP variations were less regulated by a single factor. The temporal PUE declined linearly with increasing annual precipitation, and the slope was obviously steeper than that of spatial patterns. More ANPP variability in an alpine meadow under warming conditions might occur via community transition in the north‐eastern Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau.
Prognostic factors of oral mucosal melanoma: histopathological analysis in a retrospective cohort of 82 cases
Authors: Song Hao , Wu Yunteng , Ren Guoxin , Guo Wei , Wang Lizhen
Published: March 2015

Aims

To investigate the histopathological predictors of overall survival and metastatic failure of oral mucosal melanoma (OMM), of which the histopathological classification and microstaging has not been established.

Methods and results

The pathological data, including cell type (CT), level of invasion, ulceration, mitotic rate, pigmentation, necrosis, tumour‐infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) and vascular invasion, of 82 OMM patients from April 2002 to April 2012 were reviewed and analysed retrospectively. CT, ulceration, mitotic rate, pigmentation, necrosis and vascular invasion were found to be of significance in predicting the overall survival of OMM patients. CT was an independent prognostic factor of overall survival in multivariate analysis. In patients with localized OMM, CT, level of invasion, mitotic rate, pigmentation and necrosis were associated with overall survival but none of them proved to be an independent prognostic factor. CT, mitotic rate and TIL were associated with the risk of distant metastasis. TIL was revealed to be an independent factor of distant metastases risk in multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

CT was an independent prognostic factor of overall survival. Patients with epithelioid cell type OMM had a poor prognosis. Patients without TIL had a higher risk of distant metastasis.
A pilot study of an HbA1c chairside screening protocol for diabetes in patients with chronic periodontitis: the dental hygienist's role
Authors: Bossart M , Calley KH , Gurenlian JR , Mason B , Ferguson RE , Peterson T
Published: March 2015

Objective

To assess effectiveness, convenience and cost of point‐of‐care diabetes screenings performed by a dental hygienist for patients with periodontitis, using a diabetes risk questionnaire, periodontal findings and a glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) analyser.

Methods

A purposive sample of 50 participants with periodontitis, never diagnosed with diabetes, reporting ≥one diabetes risk factor, were administered an HbA1c test. Spearman's correlation measured relationships between HbA1c and diabetes risk test scores, numbers of missing teeth, percentage of deep pockets ≥5 mm and percentage of bleeding sites (BOP). Cost and time were assessed. Analyses used 0.05 alpha levels.

Results

Thirty‐two per cent (n = 16) of participants presented HbA1c values indicating prediabetes; one HbA1c value indicated type 2 diabetes, totalling 34% (N = 17). No relationships existed between HbA1c values and diabetes risk scores (rs = 0.153; P = 0.144), numbers of missing teeth (r = 0.190; P = 0.093), percentage of deep pockets (rs = −0.048; P = 0.370) or percentage of BOP sites (rs = 0.066, P = 0.324). Direct cost for each HbA1c was $9US, excluding follow‐up medical diagnosis. Mean screening time including patient education was 14 min (SD = 6.2). Fifty‐three per cent (n = 9 of 17) of participants with elevated HbA1c values contacted their primary healthcare provider within 2 weeks as recommended.

Conclusion

Point‐of‐care HbA1c screenings by dental hygienists were effective and convenient for identifying undiagnosed prediabetes and provide opportunity for interprofessional patient care; cost or lack of dental insurance may inhibit implementation. Identification of patients at risk for diabetes requires further evaluation.
Effect of a halophilic aromatic yeast together with Aspergillus oryzae in koji making on the volatile compounds and quality of soy sauce moromi
Authors: Liu Jingjing , Li Dongsheng , Hu Yong , Wang Chao , Gao Bing , Xu Ning
Published: March 2015

Koji making is an essential step in the production of high‐quality soy sauce. In this study, we inoculated koji with a halophilic aromatic yeast (Zygosaccharomyces rouxii) and Aspergillus oryzae and investigated the effects on the volatile compounds and quality of soy sauce moromi. Our results suggest that the optimal yeast inoculation was approximately 1.5 × 106 yeast per gram of koji, and excessive yeast greatly decreased A. oryzae enzyme activity. In comparison with the control group, there were no significant changes in the concentrations of amino nitrogen, total titratable acids, total soluble nitrogen and reducing sugar by extending the fermentation time during the first fermentation month, whereas the concentration of glutamate in the yeast‐inoculated sample increased by 46.16% and the arginine concentration decreased by 61.07%. After the second fermentation month, 17, 38 and 38 volatile components were identified by GC–MS in C1, C2 and C5, respectively. Moreover, a large number of volatile components, such as 2‐Methoxy‐4‐vinylphenol, ethyl acetate and 1‐Octen‐3‐ol were found in C2 and C5. And the total contents of volatile compounds in C2 were obviously higher than C5. This work furthers our understanding of the traditional multistrain koji making and provides a new method for enhancing the quality and flavour of soy sauce.
Practical application of color Doppler ultrasonography in patients with ejaculatory dysfunction
Authors: Hara Ryoei , Nagai Atsushi , Fujii Tomohiro , Fukumoto Kazuhiko , Ohira Shin , Jo Yoshimasa , Yokoyama Teruhiko , Miyaji Yoshiyuki
Published: March 2015

We describe two cases in which dynamic analysis of ejaculation using color Doppler ultrasonography was useful in diagnosis of ejaculatory dysfunction and planning of therapy. The first patient was a 32‐year‐old man with a diagnosis of retrograde ejaculation. A bladder neck collagen injection was carried out, as the main cause was thought to be the bladder neck remaining open during ejaculation. The patient had antegrade ejaculation 1 week later. The second patient was a 48‐year‐old man with a diagnosis of anorgasmia accompanied by decreased seminal emission and insufficient function of the rhythmic pelvic striated muscles. The patient was prescribed etilefrine hydrochloride 15 mg/day. The symptom improved 2 weeks after starting this drug. These cases suggest that the use of color Doppler ultrasonography during ejaculation can improve the understanding of ejaculatory dysfunction and therapy for this condition.
Devolution and disabled workers: the experiences of union equality representatives in Wales
Authors: Foster Deborah
Published: March 2015

In contrast to the Coalition Government, the Welsh Assembly embraced the original objectives of the Public Sector Equality Duty and provided financial support to develop a network of union equality representatives (ERs). With reference to ER support for disabled workers, this article examines the role of devolution in equalities bargaining.
Determinants of graduates' job opportunities and initial wages in China
Authors: KONG Jun
Published: March 2015

Based on a sample of new graduates in the Beijing area, this study examines how college prestige, major and sex affect their job search prospects and initial wages. Using a parametric survival approach and a Heckman selection model, it shows that graduates find jobs faster if they come from prestigious universities, signalling ability and qualification. They also receive higher initial wages than graduates from other tertiary education institutions. Engineering and business graduates find jobs more easily than law and science graduates, but liberal arts and social science graduates receive higher wages. Female graduates find jobs faster than male graduates, but they earn less.
Differences in horizontal and vertical mismatches across countries and fields of study
Authors: VERHAEST Dieter , SELLAMI Sana , van der VELDEN Rolf
Published: March 2015

Based on early career data on graduates in Europe and Japan, the authors investigate whether full job mismatch (i.e. field‐of‐study mismatch and over‐education), mere horizontal mismatch and mere vertical mismatch can be explained by differences in institutions and labour market imbalances. Mere horizontal mismatch is lower in countries with stronger employment protection, higher unemployment benefits and selective educational programmes. Cross‐country differences in mere vertical mismatch are largely explained by labour market imbalances. These variables also affect full mismatch, which is positively related to collective bargaining coverage as well. Field‐of‐study differences in mismatches are similarly determined by educational programme characteristics and labour market imbalances.
Entre innovation et conservation: la Nouvelle Broderie commerciale maya*
Authors: Nadal Marie‐José
Published: March 2015

This article undertakes a discourse analysis of sponsoring agencies of the Nuevo Bordado Maya Comercial. In the name of the rehabilitation of cultures that have faced discrimination and of the respect of Indigenous women's rights, these agencies act on the frontiers between the local and the global, between the public and private, between ethnicities and between genders. An examination of such terms as sustainable development, empowerment, Maya woman, and Mayan culture and worldview reveals the co‐existence of contradictory ideologies (that are not devoid of essentialism) in relation to development, women and the construction of a transnational, pan‐Mayan identity.
“What Colour Is Your English?”*
Authors: Creese Gillian , Kambere Edith Ngene
Published: March 2015

Cet article soulève des questions concernant les voies par lesquelles le discours de la « collectivité imaginée » est contrôlé par les accents. Misant sur une recherche préliminaire auprès de femmes immigrantes d'origine africaine, nous soutenons que ***1'« anglais canadien » constitue une frontière ne permettant un passage que partiel et provisoire aux personnes avec un accent africain. Cette frontière est physique et métaphorique, limitant l'accès à des avantages matériels comme des emplois ou le logement, et façonnant les perceptions de qui appartient au Canada. C'est ainsi que les accents bâtissent un lieu à travers lequel des relations de pouvoir racialisées sont négociées et où les « autres » sont reproduits physiquement et métaphoriquement au Canada.
An Upconversion Niobium Pentoxide Bulk Glass Codoped with Er3+/Yb3+ Fabricated by Aerodynamic Levitation Method
Authors: Li Jiaying , Li Jianqiang , Li Bo , Yu Jianding , Qi Longhao
Published: March 2015

(82−x)NbO2.5–17.4LaO1.5–xZrO2(NLZ) (x = 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, 17.5, and 20) bulk glasses codoped with Er3+/Yb3+ were successfully fabricated by aerodynamic levitation method for the first time. The structure, thermal stability, and luminescent properties of the samples were investigated systemically by XRD, differential scanning calorimetry, and upconversion spectra. Under 980 nm laser excitation, all samples exhibited green and red upconversion emissions centered at 531, 546, and 674 nm. Results showed that the sample with 15 mol% ZrO2 obtained the most efficient upconversion luminescence and good thermal stability with the glass‐transition temperature as high as 743 °C. The effect of the addition of ZrO2 on the structure behavior and the phonon density in the glass was investigated by Raman spectra, which are the key factors for the upconversion luminescence intensity.
Nurses’ perceptions of climate and environmental issues: a qualitative study
Authors: Anåker Anna , Nilsson Maria , Holmner Åsa , Elf Marie
Published: March 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore nurses' perceptions of climate and environmental issues and examine how nurses perceive their role in contributing to the process of sustainable development.

Background

Climate change and its implications for human health represent an increasingly important issue for the healthcare sector. According to the International Council of Nurses Code of Ethics, nurses have a responsibility to be involved and support climate change mitigation and adaptation to protect human health.

Design

This is a descriptive, explorative qualitative study.

Methods

Nurses (n = 18) were recruited from hospitals, primary care and emergency medical services; eight participated in semi‐structured, in‐depth individual interviews and 10 participated in two focus groups. Data were collected from April–October 2013 in Sweden; interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using content analysis.

Results

Two main themes were identified from the interviews: (i) an incongruence between climate and environmental issues and nurses' daily work; and (ii) public health work is regarded as a health co‐benefit of climate change mitigation. While being green is not the primary task in a lifesaving, hectic and economically challenging context, nurses' perceived their profession as entailing responsibility, opportunities and a sense of individual commitment to influence the environment in a positive direction.

Conclusions

This study argues there is a need for increased awareness of issues and methods that are crucial for the healthcare sector to respond to climate change. Efforts to develop interventions should explore how nurses should be able to contribute to the healthcare sector's preparedness for and contributions to sustainable development.
Managers are potential levers of discrimination within organizations: the role of group identification, assimilation endorsement and power
Authors: Courtois Marie , Herman Ginette
Published: March 2015

Two studies examined the relationship between identification with a high‐position group in organizational settings (managers) and bias toward immigrants. In Study 1, (N = 182; N = 145), results showed positive relationships between identification with the managers' group and both in‐group bias and prejudiced attitudes, indirectly through assimilation endorsement. In Study 2 (N = 117), in addition to replicating the results of Study 1, we found a significant interaction, revealing that power moderated the link between identification with a high‐position group and bias. Moderated mediation analysis indicated that linking managers' group identification to bias and prejudiced attitudes through assimilation was only significant for high perceived power. Results are discussed in light of interethnic ideologies and the social identity theory. Some practical implications are provided.
Meaning in life goal pursuit moderates the effects of social influences on college student drinking
Authors: Meisel Samuel N. , Palfai Tibor P.
Published: March 2015

This study sought to examine whether life goal meaning serves as a protective factor against the effects of social influences on hazardous drinking. The sample consisted of 156 college drinkers who had consumed alcohol in the past 30 days. Results indicated that goal meaning moderated the relation between both injunctive norms and direct offers and heavy drinking episodes. Simple slopes' analyses showed that injunctive norms predicted heavy episodic drinking for students with low but not high levels of goal meaning. Direct offers predicted heavy episodic drinking, however, the strength of this association was reduced at high levels of goal meaning. Results suggest that higher levels of goal meaning may buffer the effects of social influences on college student hazardous drinking.
Cross‐Functional Integration Revisited: Exploring the Conceptual Elephant
Authors: Frankel Robert , Mollenkopf Diane A.
Published: March 2015

Despite multiple decades of previous research, cross‐functional integration (CFI) remains a poorly understood concept. We argue for definitional clarity to differentiate CFI from other related concepts, such as interfirm integration or supply chain integration. We also argue for theoretical grounding to provide context for understanding the role of CFI within a firm as well as between firms. This article provides a foundation for researchers to move forward in creating a broader understanding of CFI as a focal construct of interest within the supply chain domain.
Stressful Life Events, Worry, and Rumination Predict Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms in Young Adolescents
Authors: Young Cara C. , Dietrich Mary S.
Published: March 2015

Problem

Depression and anxiety are highly prevalent and frequently comorbid mental health disorders that often manifest during childhood and adolescence. The purpose of this study was to prospectively examine potential common underlying mechanisms predicting the development of depressive and anxiety symptoms to identify mutual underlying modifiable risk factors to target with mental health promotion and prevention interventions.

Methods

A community‐based sample of 11‐ to 15‐year‐old adolescents participated in a prospective, longitudinal pilot study with three waves of data collection over a 6‐month period.

Findings

At baseline, stressful life events, worry, and rumination accounted for 35% of the variance in anxiety scores (adjusted R2 = 0.28) and 58% of the variance in depressive symptoms (adjusted R2 = 0.53), while at Time 3 (T3; 6 months post baseline) these variables accounted for 63% of the variance in anxiety scores (adjusted R2 = 0.59) and 45% of the variance in depressive symptoms (adjusted R2 = 0.39). After controlling for baseline values, increases in stress, worry, and rumination were predictive of both depressive and anxiety symptoms at T3.

Conclusions

Study findings point to the importance of prevention and early intervention programs including content addressing stress management, rumination, and worry.
High Uric Acid Levels During Pregnancy Linked to Increased Risk for Future Atherosclerotic‐Related Hospitalization
Authors: Wolak Talya , Shoham‐Vardi Ilana , Sergienko Ruslan , Sheiner Eyal
Published: March 2015

The aim of this study was to examine the association between uric acid (UA) level during pregnancy and future maternal hospitalization for atherosclerotic‐related morbidity. A case‐control study was conducted including women who delivered between the years 2000 to 2012 and subsequently developed atherosclerotic morbidity at least 1 year after their last delivery (n=588) and controls (n=3645). The mean follow‐up duration was 57.8±35.6 months and 77±43.4 months, respectively. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the adjusted hazard ratios for hospitalizations. A significant linear association was documented between UA during pregnancy and long‐term maternal‐related atherosclerotic morbidity. A Cox proportional hazard model, controlling for the confounders gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes mellitus, obesity, maternal age, creatinine level, and gestational week at index pregnancy showed that UA ≥5.6 mg/dL during pregnancy remained independently associated with long‐term total hospitalization (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.47; 95% confidence interval, 1.16–1.86; P<.001). High UA level during pregnancy may predict maternal atherosclerotic morbidity.