bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circulation as Placemaking: Late Classic Maya Polities and Portable Objects
Authors: Halperin Christina T.
Published: January 2014

What do portable objects have to do with the making of places? Portable objects are seemingly peripheral to understandings of place, as landscape studies often revolve around human experiences in relation to relatively fixed features, such as monumental buildings, agricultural fields, and settlements. Attention to the fleeting movements and intersecting juxtapositions of portable things, people, and landscapes, however, reveals placemaking as relational and dynamic. From a multiscalar perspective, in this article I identify the Late Classic (ca. 600–900 C.E.) Maya Ik’ polity in Petén, Guatemala, as a series of overlapping and relational local, provincial, and regional places. I examine the circulation and social meanings of polychrome vessels and ceramic figurines through paste composition, iconographic, and contextual analyses not only to understand the spatial junctures of the Ik’ polity but also to explore how conceptions of the Ik’ polity were forged by those who used, viewed, and moved these objects.
Therapeutic Hypothermia: Quantification of the Transition of Core Body Temperature Using the Flexible Mixture Bent‐Cable Model for Longitudinal Data
Authors: Khan Shahedul A. , Chiu Grace S. , Dubin Joel A.
Published: January 2014

Hypothermia which is induced by reducing core body temperature is a therapeutic tool used to prevent brain damage resulting from physical trauma. However, all physiological systems begin to slow down due to hypothermia and this can result in increased risk of mortality. Therefore quantification of the transition of core body temperature to early hypothermia is of great clinical interest. Conceptually core body temperature may exhibit an either gradual or abrupt transition. Bent‐cable regression is an appealing statistical tool to model such data due to the model's flexibility and readily interpretable regression coefficients. It handles more flexibly models that traditionally have been handled by low‐order polynomial models (for gradual transition) or piecewise linear changepoint models (for abrupt change). We consider a rat model to quantify the temporal trend of core body temperature primarily to address the question: What is the critical time point associated with a breakdown in the compensatory mechanisms following the start of hypothermia therapy? To this end, we develop a Bayesian modelling framework for bent‐cable regression of longitudinal data to simultaneously account for gradual and abrupt transitions. Our analysis reveals that: (i) about 39% of rats exhibit a gradual transition in core body temperature; (ii) the critical time point is approximately the same regardless of transition type; and (iii) both transition types show a significant increase of core body temperature followed by a significant decrease.
Funding Local Government: Use (and Abuse) ofPeru's Canon System
Authors: CRABTREE JOHN
Published: January 2014

While decentralisation, properly understood, implies that sub‐national government involves devolution of authority over revenues, recent experience fromPeru suggests that the canon system tends to create perverse incentives in encouraging open and democratic government at the local level. This is particularly the case in regions such asCusco, which benefit disproportionately from this system. Examination of experiences in four provinces ofCusco shows how – in the absence of a robust civil society – excessive funding tends to encourage clientelism and corruption rather than accountable and transparent administration.
THE POTENTIAL FOR SHORT‐RUN SHIFTING OF A CORPORATE PROFITS TAX
Authors: Aronson J. Richard , Lambert Peter J. , Tremblay Victor J.
Published: January 2014

Can the owners of a firm shift a corporate profits tax to consumers? Not in the short run if the tax is stated as a proportion of profits and the firm is a profit maximizer. But what if the firm wishes to pursue a strategy other than profit maximization, say revenue maximization subject to a profit constraint? Under such a condition the firm's reaction to a tax or tax increase might be a price rise that captures part of the foregone profits. We show that firms which operate at a point on their demand curve that differs from profit maximization have an incentive to raise price in response to the tax – and that high cost firms have a greater incentive to raise price than do low cost firms. Our empirical analysis of the US beer industry confirms this finding, and sheds light on the Krzyzaniak–Musgrave analysis of the 1960s which suggested that the corporation income tax produced significant short‐run shifting.
Structural controls on the stratigraphic architecture of net‐transgressive shallow‐marine strata in a salt‐influenced rift basin: Middle‐to‐Upper Jurassic Egersund Basin, Norwegian North Sea
Authors: Mannie A. S. , Jackson C. A. ‐ L. , Hampson G. J.
Published: January 2014

In this study, we integrate 3D seismic reflection, wireline log, biostratigraphic and core data from the Egersund Basin, Norwegian North Sea to determine the impact of syn‐depositional salt movement and associated growth faulting on the sedimentology and stratigraphic architecture of the Middle‐to‐Upper Jurassic, net‐transgressive, syn‐rift succession. Borehole data indicate that Middle‐to‐Upper Jurassic strata consist of low‐energy, wave‐dominated offshore and shoreface deposits and coal‐bearing coastal‐plain deposits. These deposits are arranged in four parasequences that are aggradationally to retrogradationally stacked to form a net‐transgressive succession that is up to 150‐m thick, at least 20 km in depositional strike (SW‐NE) extent, and >70 km in depositional dip (NW‐SE) extent. In this rift‐margin location, changes in thickness but not facies are noted across active salt structures. Abrupt facies changes, from shoreface sandstones to offshore mudstones, only occur across large displacement, basement‐involved normal faults. Comparisons to other tectonically active salt‐influenced basins suggest that facies changes across syn‐depositional salt structures are observed only where expansion indices are >2. Subsidence between salt walls resulted in local preservation of coastal‐plain deposits that cap shoreface parasequences, which were locally removed by transgressive erosion in adjacent areas of lower subsidence. The depositional dip that characterizes the Egersund Basin is unusual and likely resulted from its marginal location within the evolving North Sea rift and an extra‐basinal sediment supply from the Norwegian mainland.
Oral health status: relationship to nutrient and food intake among 80‐year‐old Japanese adults
Authors: Iwasaki Masanori , Taylor George W. , Manz Michael C. , Yoshihara Akihiro , Sato Misuzu , Muramatsu Kanako , Watanabe Reiko , Miyazaki Hideo
Published: January 2014

Objectives

The aim of this cross‐sectional study was to investigate the relationship of oral health status defined on the basis of presence of posterior occluding pairs (POPs) and adequacy of removable denture fit as determined by self‐report to nutrient and food intake among older Japanese.

Methods

The subjects were 353 Japanese aged 80 years in 2008 and were classified into four groups according to the number of POPs, defined as pairs of occluding natural, restored, or fixed prosthetic postcanine teeth (range: 0–8) and removable denture status. The groups were: (i) good dentition (n = 56; 8 POPs and no removable prosthesis), (ii) well‐fitting dentures (n = 158; <8 POPs with self‐reported good‐fitting dentures), (iii) ill‐fitting dentures (n = 70; <8 POPs with self‐reported ill‐fitting dentures), and (iv) compromised dentition (n = 69; <8 POPs and no removable prosthesis). Multivariable analysis of the differences in nutrient and food intake outcome variables which were collected via validated food frequency questionnaire among the four oral health status groups was conducted using general linear models.

Results

Intake of multiple nutrients was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in the group with ill‐fitting dentures or compromised dentition than in the good dentition group. Vegetable, fish, and shellfish consumption was significantly lower in the ill‐fitting dentures or compromised dentition groups. No significant differences were seen in dietary intake between the well‐fitting dentures and good dentition groups.

Conclusions

Dietary intake was poorer in those with self‐perceived ill‐fitting dentures or fewer POPs than among those having all POPs. Regular dental care to maintain intact dentition, as well as dental treatment to replace missing teeth and ensure adequate denture fit and function, may be important to the diet intake and subsequent nutritional status of older Japanese.
Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors do not impair the safety of Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy build‐up phase
Authors: Stoevesandt J. , Hain J. , Stolze I. , Kerstan A. , Trautmann A.
Published: January 2014

Background

There is an ongoing debate on whether angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) should be substituted prior to initiation of venom immunotherapy (VIT) for safety reasons.

Objective

We aimed to assess the influence of ACEI medication on the incidence of systemic reactions (SR) during the build‐up phase of VIT in a large and homogeneous cohort of patients.

Methods

The frequency of SR during 775 consecutive cycles of VIT initiation was analyzed in relation to cardiovascular medication, age, sex, venom, reactivity in diagnostic tests, severity of preceding sting‐induced anaphylaxis, comorbidities, latency before the initiation of VIT, and treatment protocols. ACEI were routinely maintained throughout VIT, beta‐blockers replaced if appropriate.

Results

During VIT‐initiation, 190 (24.5%) patients were on some kind of cardiovascular treatment, 90 (11.6%) on ACEI, 23 (3.0%) on beta‐blockers. VIT‐related SR rates were 11.7% (any documented reactions including subjective symptoms) and 3.0% (reactions fulfilling objective diagnostic criteria of anaphylaxis). Medication with ACEI (P = 0.097) or beta‐blockers (P = 1.0) was not significantly related to the incidence of SR. A reduced rate of SR in patients taking cardiovascular drugs was not statistically significant in the final multivariate regression model. A prolonged latency before the initiation of VIT (P = 0.018, odds ratio = 1.010), and use of 5‐day compared to 3‐day rush protocols (P = 0.008, odds ratio = 3.522) increased the frequency of SR.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Study data do not provide evidence of an ACEI‐mediated increase of VIT‐related SR, supporting the continued use of these valuable and hard‐to‐replace substances throughout VIT.
The Three Axial Perineal Evaluation (TAPE) score: a new scoring system for comprehensive evaluation of pelvic floor function
Authors: Altomare D. F. , Di Lena M. , Giuratrabocchetta S. , Giannini I. , Falagario M. , Zbar A. P. , Rockwood T.
Published: January 2014

Aim

Abnormalities of one pelvic floor compartment are usually associated with anomalies in the other compartments. Therapies which specifically address one clinical problem may potentially adversely affect other pelvic floor activities. A new comprehensive holistic scoring system defining global pelvic function is presented.

Method

A novel scoring system with a software program is presented expressing faecal, urinary and gynaecological functions as a geometric polygon based on symptom‐specific questionnaires [the three axial pelvic evaluation (TAPE) score] where differences in overall geometric area vary from normal. After validation in healthy volunteers, its clinical performance was tested on patients with obstructed defaecation, genital prolapse and urinary/faecal incontinence treated by the stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) procedure, colpo‐hysterectomy and sacral nerve modulation, respectively. The TAPE score was correlated with the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire 7 quality of life score.

Results

There was good inter‐observer variation and internal consistency between two observers recording the TAPE score in normal volunteers. In the STARR patients, constipation improved but the TAPE score was unchanged because of deterioration in other pelvic floor functions leading to an unchanged overall postoperative recorded quality of life. Conversely, incontinent patients treated with sacral nerve stimulation improved their function showing concomitant improvements in TAPE scores and quality of life indices. Similar correlative improvements were noted in patients undergoing hysterectomy for genital prolapse.

Conclusion

The TAPE score defines the impact of symptom‐specific treatments on the pelvic floor and may provide an opportunity for comparison of clinical data between units and in clinical trials of specific medical and surgical pelvic floor management.
Cytometry in the brain: studying differentiation to diagnostic applications in brain disease and regeneration therapy
Authors: Ulrich H. , Bocsi J. , Glaser T. , Tárnok A.
Published: January 2014

During brain development, a population of uniform embryonic cells migrates and differentiates into a large number of neural phenotypes – origin of the enormous complexity of the adult nervous system. Processes of cell proliferation, differentiation and programmed death of no longer required cells, do not occur only during embryogenesis, but are also maintained during adulthood and are affected in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disease states. As neurogenesis is an endogenous response to brain injury, visible as proliferation (of to this moment silent stem or progenitor cells), its further stimulation can present a treatment strategy in addition to stem cell transfer for cell regeneration therapy. Concise techniques for studying such events in vitro and in vivo permit understanding of underlying mechanisms. Detection of subtle physiological alterations in brain cell proliferation and neurogenesis can be explored, that occur during environmental stimulation, exercise and ageing. Here, we have collected achievements in the field of basic research on applications of cytometry, including automated imaging for quantification of morphological or fluorescence‐based parameters in cell cultures, towards imaging of three‐dimensional brain architecture together with DNA content and proliferation data. Multi‐parameter and more recently in vivo flow cytometry procedures, have been developed for quantification of phenotypic diversity and cell processes that occur during brain development as well as in adulthood, with importance for therapeutic approaches.
Nodular secondary syphilis with associated granulomatous inflammation: case report and literature review
Authors: Rysgaard Carolyn , Alexander Erik , Swick Brian L.
Published: January 2014

A 62‐year‐old male presented with a 10‐day history of a diffuse, erythematous papular rash sparing the palms and soles. Histopathologic examination of a skin lesion showed loose non‐caseating granulomas in a lymphoplasmacytic background. Scattered spirochetes were identified by Treponema pallidum immunohistochemistry, in keeping with a diagnosis of secondary syphilis. Granulomatous inflammation in secondary syphilis is uncommon. A review of the literature reveals that the majority of prior reported cases of granulomatous secondary syphilis share similar characteristics to this case; namely, a papular or nodular clinical presentation, sparing of the palms and soles, and collections of epithelioid histiocytes with associated lymphocytes and variable numbers of plasma cells.
Chronic Kidney Disease is Independently Associated with Alterations in Left Atrial Function
Authors: Kadappu Krishna K. , Kuncoro Ario S. , Hee Leia , Aravindan Anathakrishnapuram , Spicer Stephen T. , Suryanarayanan Govindarajan , Xuan Wei , Boyd Anita , French John K. , Thomas Liza
Published: January 2014

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality; hence detection of early cardiovascular involvement in CKD is important to prevent future adverse cardiovascular events. Left atrial (LA) enlargement and dysfunction has been reported in end stage renal disease. However, there is a paucity of published data regarding the evaluation of LA function in CKD using noninvasive imaging parameters. In this study, we evaluated biplane LA volume as well as LA function (LA global systolic strain (GS) and strain rate [SR]) in stage 3 CKD patients (eGFR 30–59 mL/min per 1.73 m2) to determine if LA function parameters are more significantly altered by the presence of CKD in addition to changes due to hypertension alone.

Methods

Thirty‐three CKD patients (eGFR 30–59 mL/min per 1.73 m2) with hypertension were compared to 33 normal controls and 34 hypertensive (HT) subjects with normal renal function; all participants underwent a detailed transthoracic echocardiogram. Indexed biplane LA volume (LAVI), LA segmental function, and GS and SR (systolic, early, and late diastole) derived from tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) were measured. Univariate predictors of LA strain were determined. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to examine the effect of patient group (i.e. CKD) on GS and SR as well as LAVI.

Results

Left atrial volume indexed was significantly increased in both the HT and CKD with HT group compared to normal controls (28 ± 9 mL/m2 vs. 28 ± 9 mL/m2 vs. 23 ± 5 mL/m2, respectively, P = 0.02). However, LAVI was similar in the HT and CKD with HT group (28 ± 9 mL/m2 vs. 28 ± 9 mL/m2; P = NS). LA GS and SR were reduced in both the CKD with HT and HT group, compared to controls. However, a significantly lower LA GS was present in the CKD with HT group (Controls vs. HT vs. CKD with HT: 54.9 ± 14.5% vs. 34.5 ± 6.2% vs. 25.7 ± 9.3%, respectively; P = 0.001). To examine the effect of group, (i.e. presence of CKD) multiple logistic regression analysis was performed with univariate predictors including indexed left ventricular mass (LVMI), LV diastolic grade, LAVI, peak A‐wave velocity, β‐blocker therapy, GS and SR; this demonstrated that CKD had an independent effect on LA GS and SR (systolic, early, and late diastole). GS demonstrated moderate correlation with systolic blood pressure (r = −0.5, P = 0.01), diastolic grade (r = −0.5, P = 0.01), E′ velocity (r = 0.6, P = 0.0001), peak A velocity (r = −0.5, P = 0.004), and LAVI (r = −0.6, P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Left atrial dysfunction is evident in stage 3 CKD with associated LA enlargement. This study demonstrates that LA GS and SR were reduced in the CKD group despite similar LAVI in the CKD with HT and HT group. Hence LA GS and SR may be a more sensitive noninvasive tool to detect cardiovascular involvement in CKD.
New Universal Strain Software Accurately Assesses Cardiac Systolic and Diastolic Function Using Speckle Tracking Echocardiography
Authors: Kolias Theodore J. , Hagan Peter G. , Chetcuti Stanley J. , Eberhart Diane L. , Kline Nicole M. , Lucas Sean D. , Hamilton James D.
Published: January 2014

Background

We have developed new universal strain software (USS) that can be used to perform speckle tracking of any Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) image, regardless of the ultrasound system used to obtain it.

Methods

Fifty patients prospectively underwent echocardiography immediately prior to cardiac catheterization. Biplane peak global longitudinal strain (GLS), peak systolic longitudinal strain rate (SSR), peak early diastolic longitudinal strain rate (DSR), and peak early diastolic circumferential strain rate (DCSR) were determined using conventional strain software (CSS) that uses raw data, and using the new USS applied to DICOM images.

Results

Universal strain software correlated with CSS for GLS (r = 0.78, P < 0.001), SSR (r = 0.78, P < 0.001), DSR (r = 0.54, P < 0.001), and DCSR (r = 0.43, P = 0.019). GLS and SSR using USS correlated with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (r = −0.67 and −0.71, respectively) as well as using CSS (r = −0.66 and −0.71). Patients with diastolic dysfunction had significantly lower DSR (0.61 vs. 0.87/sec, P = 0.02) and DCSR (0.89 vs. 1.23/sec, P = 0.03), and less negative GLS (−10.8 vs. −16.1%, P = 0.002) using USS in all patients, as well as among those with LVEF ≥ 50%. Receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) analysis for detection of diastolic dysfunction revealed a sensitivity and specificity of 82% and 83% for DCSR < 1.09/sec (area under the curve [AUC = 0.80]) and 85% and 83% for GLS > −13.7% (AUC = 0.84) using USS.

Conclusion

Universal strain software can be used to accurately assess LV systolic and diastolic function using speckle tracking echocardiography.
A reduction in Ptprq associated with specific features of the deafness phenotype of the miR‐96 mutant mouse diminuendo
Authors: Chen Jing , Johnson Stuart L. , Lewis Morag A. , Hilton Jennifer M. , Huma Andreea , Marcotti Walter , Steel Karen P.
Published: January 2014

miR‐96 is a microRNA, a non‐coding RNA gene which regulates a wide array of downstream genes. The miR‐96 mouse mutant diminuendo exhibits deafness and arrested hair cell functional and morphological differentiation. We have previously shown that several genes are markedly downregulated in the diminuendo organ of Corti; one of these is Ptprq, a gene known to be important for maturation and maintenance of hair cells. In order to study the contribution that downregulation of Ptprq makes to the diminuendo phenotype, we carried out microarrays, scanning electron microscopy and single hair cell electrophysiology to compare diminuendo mutants (heterozygous and homozygous) with mice homozygous for a functional null allele of Ptprq. In terms of both morphology and electrophysiology, the auditory phenotype of mice lacking Ptprq resembles that of diminuendo heterozygotes, while diminuendo homozygotes are more severely affected. A comparison of transcriptomes indicates there is a broad similarity between diminuendo homozygotes and Ptprq‐null mice. The reduction in Ptprq observed in diminuendo mice appears to be a major contributor to the morphological, transcriptional and electrophysiological phenotype, but does not account for the complete diminuendo phenotype.
Review of cold water pollution in the Murray–Darling Basin and the impacts on fish communities
Authors: Lugg Allan , Copeland Craig
Published: January 2014

The release of water from deep below the surface of large dams causes significant disturbance to water temperature regimes in downstream river channels with consequent impacts upon aquatic biota and river health. The Murray–Darling Basin (MDB) has a large number of dams, which are known to cause cold water pollution (CWP) in the downstream reaches of the impounded rivers. This study reviews the situation with regard to CWP in the MDB including the location, magnitude and extent of temperature suppression, the impacts upon fish, constraints and progress towards ameliorating the problem.
Holocene vertebrate fossils aid the management and restoration of Australian ecosystems
Authors: McDowell Matthew C.
Published: January 2014

European‐settlement‐related impacts over the past 200 years pose many challenges for the conservation and restoration of Australia's ecosystems. Landscape modification, associated habitat loss and the introduction of exotic species have caused the extinction and mainland extirpation of numerous vertebrates. This process happened so quickly that many species became locally or functionally extinct before their presence was documented. A growing body of research on Holocene fossil accumulations is providing insights into the composition and biogeography of Australian ecosystems prior to European settlement. This review explores the similarities between palaeo‐ and neo‐ecology and how Holocene (last 10,000 years) assemblages can be used by neo‐ecologists, conservation managers and policy makers to identify and fill gaps in knowledge and contribute to the management and restoration of Australia's degraded ecosystems.
Thirty years of vegetation dynamics in response to a fluctuating rabbit population on sub‐Antarctic Macquarie Island
Authors: Whinam Jennie , Fitzgerald Nicholas , Visoiu Micah , Copson Geof
Published: January 2014

Australia's sub‐Antarctic Macquarie Island is presently undergoing one of the most ambitious vertebrate pest eradication programmes ever undertaken. The anticipated success of this programme will release the island's tundra‐like vegetation from well over a century of grazing and disturbance from House Mouse (Mus musculus), Ship Rat (Rattus rattus) and most significantly European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). This study describes results from 30 years of vegetation quadrat monitoring (prior to the most recent and comprehensive pest eradication programme) when lower level pest animal control programmes were underway. Plant species were assigned to one of five distinct functional plant groups: Indigenous short‐lived perennials, Introduced short‐lived perennials, Indigenous perennials rarely grazed by rabbits, Indigenous perennials occasionally grazed by rabbits and Indigenous long‐lived perennials heavily grazed by rabbits, with one species, Agrostis magellanica, analysed as a sixth monospecific group. Results from monthly rabbit counts were used to compare changes in abundance of these six groups under different rabbit populations. It was found that there were three distinct phases of rabbit activity during the study period, indicated by (i) an initial very high count year in 1980–1981, followed by (ii) 20 years of low counts ending in 2001–2002 after which (iii) counts rose to medium/high until the commencement of the eradication programme in 2010–2011. Vegetation composition and progression were distinct for these three rabbit count phases. The first four of the plant functional groups decreased under lower count periods and increased in cover under higher rabbit count periods. Agrostis magellanica appears to respond primarily to interspecies competition and is disadvantaged under extended periods of low rabbit numbers. Indigenous long‐lived perennials heavily grazed by rabbits, which includes the large tussocks and megaherbs, is inversely related to rabbit numbers. During the study period, there has also been an overall decline in plant species richness with average species count per quadrat falling by between 0.6 and 2.7 taxa. This study attempts to address the observed vegetation change from this long‐term monitoring, to discuss other potential contributing factors and to use the results to predict likely future vegetation changes after eradication of vertebrate pests.
Camera trap surveys to evaluate pest animal control operations
Authors: Bengsen Andrew , Robinson Rhett , Chaffey Cameron , Gavenlock Jason , Hornsby Vanessa , Hurst Rob , Fosdick Mark
Published: January 2014

Many camera trap surveys aiming to detect the effects of management actions on pest animal populations are not as useful as they could be, because they do not produce informative results. We used mixed effects models, signed ranks tests and occupancy models to examine changes in the activity and occurrence of European red fox (Vulpes vulpes L.) in areas subjected to repeated fox management operations. In agricultural land, mixed effects models identified a decline in fox activity after baiting in 1 year, but not the next. Occupancy models revealed a decrease in fox occurrence in a National Park following control operations. These methods, combined with appropriate survey designs, could greatly enhance the value of many pest animal surveys conducted by management agencies.
Relationship between the MDS‐UPDRS domains and the health‐related quality of life of Parkinson's disease patients
Authors: Martínez‐Martín P. , Rodríguez‐Blázquez C. , Forjaz M. J. , Álvarez‐Sánchez M. , Arakaki T. , Bergareche‐Yarza A. , Chade A. , Garretto N. , Gershanik O. , Kurtis M. M. , Martínez‐Castrillo J. C. , Mendoza‐Rodríguez A. , Moore H. P. , Rodríguez‐Violante M. , Singer C. , Tilley B. C. , Huang J. , Stebbins G. T. , Goetz C. G.
Published: January 2014

Background and purpose

The Movement Disorder Society sponsored version of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS‐UPDRS) is a comprehensive instrument for assessing Parkinson's disease (PD). The present study was aimed at determining the relationships between MDS‐UPDRS components and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) evaluations in PD patients.

Methods

An international, multicenter, cross‐sectional study was carried out of 435 PD patients assessed with the MDS‐UPDRS, Hoehn and Yahr (HY), Clinical Impression Severity for PD, EQ‐5D and PD Questionnaire − eight items (PDQ‐8). Spearman's rank correlation coefficients, exploratory factor analysis and multiple linear regression models (dependent variables EQ‐5D and PDQ‐8) were performed.

Results

The participants’ age was 66.71 ± 10.32 years (51.5% men). PD duration was 8.52 ± 6.14, and median HY was 2 (range 1–5). The correlation between the EQ‐5D index and the MDS‐UPDRS ranged from −0.46 (Part IV) to −0.72 (Part II) and for the PDQ‐8 index from 0.47 (Part III) to 0.74 (Part II). In multiple regression models with the MDS‐UPDRS domains as independent variables, the main determinant for both the EQ‐5D index and the PDQ‐8 was Part II followed by Part I. After factorial grouping of the cardinal PD manifestations embedded in the MDS‐UPDRS Parts III and IV for inclusion into multiple regression models, a factor formed by M‐EDL, nM‐EDL and fluctuations was the main determinant for both the EQ‐5D and PDQ‐8 indexes.

Conclusions

The MDS‐UPDRS component most tightly related with the HRQoL measures was a combination of motor and non‐motor experiences of daily living.
LDL receptor/lipoprotein recognition: endosomal weakening of ApoB and ApoE binding to the convex face of the LR5 repeat
Authors: Martínez‐Oliván Juan , Arias‐Moreno Xabier , Velazquez‐Campoy Adrián , Millet Oscar , Sancho Javier
Published: January 2014

The molecular mechanism of lipoprotein binding by the low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor (LDLR) is poorly understood, one reason being that structures of lipoprotein–receptor complexes are not available. LDLR uses calcium‐binding repeats (LRs) to interact with apolipoprotein B and apolipoprotein E (ApoB and ApoE). We have used NMR and SPR to characterize the complexes formed by LR5 and three peptides encompassing the putative binding regions of ApoB (site A and site B) and ApoE. The three peptides bind at the hydrophilic convex face of LR5, forming complexes that are weakened at low [Ca2+] and low pH. Thus, endosomal conditions favour dissociation of LDLR/lipoprotein complexes regardless of whether active displacement of bound lipoproteins by the β‐propeller in LDLR takes place. The multiple ApoE copies in β very low density lipoproteins (β‐VLDLs), and the presence of two competent binding sites (A and B) in LDLs, suggest that LDLR chelates lipoproteins and enhances complex affinity by using more than one LR.
How Policy Entrepreneurs Reduce Corruption in Israel
Authors: Navot Doron , Cohen Nissim
Published: January 2014

This article suggests a new perspective for analyzing anticorruption policies by emphasizing the important role of policy entrepreneurs. We maintain that these entrepreneurs combat corruption in three ways: (1) by initiating attempts to reduce corrupt practices, whether through legislation or judicial decisions; (2) by being recognized as honest brokers for informants and insiders; and (3) by providing reliable information from these sources to promote scandals. Even when they are unsuccessful in getting legislation passed, anticorruption entrepreneurs reduce corruption because they raise the level of scrutiny into corrupt practices. In addition, they foment uncertainty, deterring those considering abusing their power. We test our theoretical framework on several anticorruption entrepreneurs in Israel, demonstrating that their existence increases the potential cost of corruption. By creating networks, sharing information with others, and building reputations of honesty and courage, they encourage those involved in or considering illegal activities to refrain from such actions.
In‐center hemodialysis attendance: Patient perceptions of risks, barriers, and recommendations
Authors: Chenitz Kara B. , Fernando Michael , Shea Judy A.
Published: January 2014

Missed hemodialysis treatments lead to increased morbidity and mortality in the end‐stage renal disease population. Little is known about why patients have difficulty attending their scheduled in‐center dialysis treatments. Semistructured interviews with 15 adherent and 15 nonadherent hemodialysis patients were conducted to determine patients' attitudes about dialysis, health beliefs and risk perception regarding missed treatments, barriers and facilitators to hemodialysis attendance, and recommendations to improve the system to facilitate dialysis attendance. Average time on dialysis was 2.5 years for the nonadherent group and 7.3 years in the adherent group. In both groups, patients felt that dialysis is life‐saving and a necessity. A substantial number of patients in both groups understood that missing hemodialysis treatments is dangerous and several patients could clearly communicate the risk of skipping. The most common barriers to hemodialysis were inadequate or unreliable transportation (mentioned in both groups) and a lack of motivation to get to dialysis or that dialysis is not a priority (typically mentioned by the nonadherent group). Facilitators to hemodialysis attendance included explanations from the health care team regarding the risk of skipping and relationships with other dialysis patients. Patient recommendations to improve dialysis attendance included continued education about the risk of poor attendance and more accessible transportation. Patients did not feel that home dialysis would improve adherence. Hemodialysis patients must adhere to a complex and burdensome regimen. Through the elucidation of barriers and facilitators to hemodialysis attendance and through specific patient recommendations, at least three interventions may be further investigated to improve hemodialysis attendance: Improvement of the transportation system, education and supportive encouragement from the health care team, and peer support mentorship.
Feasibility of Screen‐Printed PZT Microceramics for Structural Health Monitoring Applications
Authors: Debéda Hélène , Lucat Claude , Maglione Mario , Pommier‐Budinger Valérie , Hochart Xavier , Sourbe Wilfrid
Published: January 2014

Using the association of low‐cost screen‐printing technology with the sacrificial layer method, the feasibility of totally released piezoelectric thick‐film microceramics of gold‐electroded PZT type is studied. After the deposition of the sacrificial layer on an alumina substrate and subsequent printing and drying of gold/PZT/gold layers, the final firing is performed at low temperature. This is followed by the releasing step of the Au/PZT/Au in a diluted acidic solution. Impedance analysis shows that the electrical properties and electromechanical coefficients of poled PZT thick films are still lower than those of PZT ceramics. This result is correlated with the high porosity rate of the PZT layer. However, these piezoelectric microceramics present desirable electromechanical behavior and can therefore be used as dynamic‐mode sensors or as actuators to generate vibrations in a structure on which they are bonded. Moreover, the successful fabrication and the electromechanical impedance (EMI) levels obtained on a metallic structure suggest possible structural health monitoring applications of these screen‐printed PZT microceramics.
Apple pomace as a potential ingredient for the development of new functional foods
Authors: Reis Sofia F. , Rai Dilip K. , Abu‐Ghannam Nissreen
Published: January 2014

Extruded snacks and baked scones were formulated with increasing levels (0–30%) of apple pomace (AP). The incorporation of up to 20% of AP in extruded snacks and in baked scones does not change significantly (P < 0.05) the proximate composition of the final products, except for the content of starch of baked scones. At this level of incorporation, the fibre content, phenolic content and antioxidant capacity (DPPH radical scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and β‐carotene/linoleic acid system) increased when compared to the products to which no AP was added. Chlorogenic acid and quercetin were the major phenolic compounds found in the products. Loss of phenolic compounds during heat treatment occurred; however, the DPPH radical scavenging activity of final products was not affected.
Effect of hot air, vacuum and infrared drying methods on quality of rose hip (Rosa rubiginosa) leathers
Authors: Quintero Ruiz Natalia A. , Demarchi Silvana M. , Giner Sergio A.
Published: January 2014

For the development of fruit leathers, a formulation containing rose hip pulp, sucrose and citric acid was used as initial material for the drying process. Three dehydration techniques were tested: forced hot air, infrared and vacuum, all carried out at 60 and 70 °C. All methods led to flexible, translucent fruit leathers at both temperatures. Colour and water activity were not affected by the dehydration method nor by the temperatures tested. Nutritional parameters such as antioxidant capacity (TEAC) and content of phenolic substances were measured. The best retention was achieved with vacuum drying at 60 °C being of 57.5% and 25.1%, respectively. ESEM observations were conducted to assess the effect of drying methods and conditions on microstructure of leathers. Various extents of sucrose crystallisation were inferred from surface images. Cross‐sectional micrographs showed that the size of pores was affected by the drying technique but not by temperature in the range studied.
Physical properties of cassava starch–carnauba wax emulsion films as affected by component proportions
Authors: Santos Talita M. , Pinto Alaídes M. B. , de Oliveira Ana Vitória , Ribeiro Hálisson L. , Caceres Carlos Alberto , Ito Edson N. , Azeredo Henriette M. C.
Published: January 2014

Properties of glycerol‐plasticised cassava starch–carnauba wax emulsion films were studied as functions of carnauba wax/starch (CW/S) ratios. Increases in CW concentrations improved elongation, but impaired tensile strength and elastic modulus, suggesting a plasticising effect by CW and/or the emulsifier. CW reduced water solubility of the films and decreased their water vapour permeability (WVP) up to CW/S ratios of 0.15–0.20, probably because of the decreased water solubility. Higher CW concentrations resulted in increased WVP, possibly due to starch matrix loosening. The opacity imparted by high CW concentrations in films could compromise some applications. The Tg of starch and the expected CW effects on it were not evidenced by DSC thermograms, but CW seems to have affected starch crystallisation, maybe by forming complexes with amylose and/or amylopectin.
Effects of temperature, pH and light on the stability of aloin A and characterisation of its major degradation products
Authors: Ding Wen‐Jing , Wu Xiao‐Fang , Zhong Jia‐Sheng , Wan Jin‐Zhi
Published: January 2014

This study explored the stability and degradation products of aloin A under varying pH, temperature and light conditions usually encountered in processing. The stability of aloin A was significantly affected by temperature and pH. The content of aloin A decreased by more than 90% within 12 h at 50 °C and within 6 h at 70 °C, respectively. A significant decrease in stability was also observed at higher pHs. At pH 8.0, less than 2% of aloin A remained within 12 h. However, aloin A exhibited good stability at acidic pH levels with 94% remaining at pH 2.0 for 14 days. Light exerted no influence on the stability during the experimental period (14 days). Aloe‐emodin, elgonica‐dimers A and B were characterised as major degradation products of aloin A at pH 5.0 or below, and elgonica‐dimers were mainly formed at 4 °C as well. 10‐hydroxyaloins A and B were found under any condition except at pH 2.0 and 3.0, and they were mainly formed under high temperature, neutral‐basic and any light conditions.
CHADS2 Score/CHA2DS2-VASc Score and Major Artery Occlusion in Cardioembolic Stroke Patients with Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Deguchi Ichiro , Hayashi Takeshi , Ohe Yasuko , Kato Yuji , Fukuoka Takuya , Maruyama Hajime , Horiuchi Yohsuke , Sano Hiroyasu , Nagamine Yuito , Tanahashi Norio
Published: January 2014

Objective

The associations between the CHADS2 score/ CHA2DS2-VASc score, and the presence of cerebral vessel occlusion on admission were examined in cardioembolic stroke patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.

Methods

The subjects were 546 consecutive patients hospitalized between April 2007 and December 2012 with onset of cardioembolic stroke associated with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation within 24 h. The associations between the CHADS2 score/CHA2DS2-VASc score and the presence of occluded cerebral vessels on magnetic resonance angiography were evaluated retrospectively. Occluded cerebral vessels were classified into the internal carotid artery, middle cerebral artery (M1, M2), basilar artery, and other (anterior cerebral artery [A1], posterior cerebral artery [P1], vertebral artery).

Results

Major artery occlusion was seen in 52% of patients with CHADS2 score 0, 52% of patients with score 1, 57% with score 2, 75% with score 3, and 75% with score ≥4. As for the CHA2DS2-VASc score, major artery occlusion was seen in 62% of patients with score 0, 49% with score 1, 53% with score 2, 53% with score 3, 65% with score 4, 71% with score 5, and 82% with score ≥6. The incidence of concurrent major arterial occlusion increased as both scores rose. When classified by occluded blood vessel, the incidence of concurrent internal carotid artery occlusion increased as both the CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc scores increased.

Conclusion

As the CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASs scores increased, the incidence of concurrent major arterial occlusion, particularly internal carotid artery occlusion, increased in patients with cardioembolic stroke associated with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.
Intraoperative ultrasonography with a surgeon‐manipulated microtransducer during robotic radical prostatectomy
Authors: Shoji Sunao , Aron Monish , de Castro Abreu Andre Luis , Leslie Scott , Ahmadi Hamed , Desai Mihir M , Gill Inderbir S , Ukimura Osamu
Published: January 2014

Intraoperative transrectal ultrasonography during laparoscopic radical prostatectomy has been reported to lead to a reduction in surgical margin rates. However, the use of a surgeon‐controlled ultrasound probe that allows for precise manipulation and direct interpretation of the image by a console surgeon has yet to be studied. The aim of the present study was to show initial feasibility using the microtransducer with 9‐mm scan length controlled by the console surgeon during robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy in 10 patients. The transducer is designed as a drop‐in probe with a flexible cord for insertion through a laparoscopic port, and is controlled by a robotic arm with the ultrasonographic image shown as a console Tile‐pro display. Intraoperative localization of the biopsy‐proven cancerous hypoechoic lesion was feasible in four out of four cases. The microtransducer facilitated identification of the bladder neck as well as the appropriate level of neurovascular bundle release. Negative surgical margin was achieved in all 10 cases (100%), even though five of 10 patients (50%) had extraprostatic (pT3) disease. Recovery of erectile function and continence was encouraging. In conclusion, intraoperative ultrasound navigation using a drop‐type microtransducer is a novel technique that could enhance the incremental value of the standard information.
Clinical Signs, Treatment, and Outcome in 15 Cattle With Sinonasal Cysts
Authors: Schmid Tanja , Braun Ueli , Hagen Regine , Grest Paula , Hug Sophie A. , Nuss Karl
Published: January 2014

Objective

To evaluate clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of cattle with sinonasal cysts.

Study Design

Case series.

Animals

Cattle (n = 15).

Methods

Medical records (2004–2011) of cattle with a fluid‐filled mass in the nasal cavity, conchae, and/or paranasal sinuses were evaluated. Data retrieved and analyzed were reason of presentation, clinical signs, diagnostic techniques, surgical treatment, complications, and outcome.

Results

Common presenting clinical signs were abnormal respiratory noise, nasal discharge, and abnormal respiratory effort. Mean age of affected cattle was 21.7 months. In 9 animals, cysts were identified by endoscopy. Radiographic signs included a mass in the paranasal sinuses or conchae (13), nasal septum deviation (12), fluid lines (10), and bone atrophy (5). Ten cattle were treated surgically with osteoplastic flap techniques to gain access to the frontal or maxillary sinus (5), nasal extraction of the cyst under endoscopic control (3) or a combination of both techniques (2). Nine cattle returned to be productive members of their herd and had no recurrence (mean follow‐up, 20.7 months).

Conclusions

Sinonasal cysts should be considered as a primary differential diagnosis in cattle with abnormal respiratory noise, particularly in younger animals. Multiple cysts were common, which underlines the importance of a thorough preoperative examination using appropriate imaging modalities. Despite the often expansive nature of sinonasal cysts, the prognosis with surgical treatment was good.
Influence of incubation recess patterns on incubation period and hatchling traits in wood ducks Aix sponsa
Authors: Carter A. W. , Hopkins W. A. , Moore I. T. , DuRant S. E.
Published: January 2014

Parental effects are influential sources of phenotypic variation in offspring. Incubation temperature in birds, which is largely driven by parental behavior and physiology, affects a suite of phenotypic traits in offspring including growth, immune function, stress endocrinology, and sex ratios. The importance of average incubation temperature on offspring phenotype has recently been described in birds, but parental incubation behaviors like the duration and frequency of recesses from the nest can be variable. There are few studies describing how or if thermal variation as a result of variable incubation affects offspring phenotype. We incubated wood duck Aix sponsa eggs under three different incubation regimes, based on patterns that occur in nature, which varied in off‐bout duration and/or temperature. We measured incubation period, morphometrics at hatching, and monitored growth and body condition for nine days post hatch. When average incubation temperature was allowed to drop from 35.9°C to 35.5°C as a result of doubled off‐bout duration, we found a significant 2 d extension in incubation period, but no effects on duckling hatch mass, or growth and body condition up to nine days post hatch. However, when average incubation temperatures were equivalent (35.9°C), doubling the duration of the simulated off‐bouts did not influence incubation period or any post hatch parameters. Our results suggest that if incubating parents can maintain favorable thermal environments in the nest via altered behavior (e.g. manipulating nest insulation) and/or physiology (e.g. heat production), parents may be able to avoid the costs of longer incubation periods resulting from increased off‐bout duration.