bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteinuria testing among patients with diabetes mellitus is associated with bladder cancer diagnosis: potential for unmeasured confounding in studies of pioglitazone and bladder cancer
Authors: Lewis James D. , Habel Laurel , Quesenberry Charles , Mamtani Ronac , Peng Tiffany , Bilker Warren B. , Hedderson Monique , Nessel Lisa , Vaughn David J. , Strom Brian L. , Ferrara Assiamira
Published: April 2014

Background

The observed association between pioglitazone and bladder cancer could be causal or because of bias in the design of prior studies. We hypothesize that proteinuria testing may lead to detection bias if routine test results for proteinuria lead to a full urinalysis.

Methods

We reanalyzed patients with diabetes mellitus within Kaiser Permanente Northern California. Logistic and Cox regression adjusted for age, sex, race, and smoking were used to assess the association of proteinuria testing with pioglitazone use, subsequent full urinalysis, and diagnosis with bladder cancer.

Results

Patients treated with pioglitazone were more likely than others with diabetes to undergo testing for proteinuria (p < 0.001). The odds of positive tests for proteinuria were higher among pioglitazone‐treated patients (OR = 1.41, 95%CI 1.36–1.46). A positive proteinuria test was associated with increased odds of completing a urinalysis in the following 6 months (OR = 1.78, 95%CI 1.73–1.85). Negative and positive proteinuria test results were inversely (hazard ratio (HR) 0.63, 95%CI 0.52–0.75) and positively associated (HR 2.45, 95%CI 2.12–2.82) with bladder cancer risk, respectively. Adjustment for negative and positive proteinuria testing reduced the magnitude of association between pioglitazone and bladder cancer by only 5 to 10% (ever‐exposed HR: from 1.06 to 1.01 and >4 years exposure HR: from 1.38 to 1.28).

Conclusions

Proteinuria testing may be a confounder in studies of pioglitazone and bladder cancer but does not fully explain the association between pioglitazone and bladder cancer in this cohort. Optimal adjustment for proteinuria testing likely requires knowledge of the test result. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of the first glyphosate‐resistant wild radish (Raphanus raphanistrum L.) populations
Authors: Ashworth Michael B , Walsh Michael J , Flower Ken C , Powles Stephen B
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

In Australia, glyphosate has been used routinely to control wild radish (Raphanus raphanistrum L.) for the past 40 years. This study focuses on two field‐evolved glyphosate‐resistant populations of wild radish collected from the grainbelt of Western Australia.

RESULTS

Two wild radish biotypes were confirmed to be glyphosate resistant by comparing R/S of two suspected populations. Based on R/S from dose–response curves, the R1 and R2 populations were 2.3 and 3.2 times more resistant to glyphosate respectively. Dose response on glyphosate‐selected progeny (>1080 g ha−1) demonstrated that the glyphosate resistance mechanism was heritable. When compared with the pooled mortality results of three known susceptible populations (S1, S2 and S3), the R1 and R2 subpopulations were 3.4‐fold and 4.5‐fold more resistant at the LD50 level respectively. Both populations were found to have multiple resistance to the phytoene desaturase inhibitor; diflufenican, the synthetic auxin; 2,4‐D and the ALS inhibitors; chlorsulfuron, sulfometuron‐methyl, imazethapyr and metosulam.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report confirming glyphosate resistance evolution in wild radish and serves to re‐emphasise the importance of diverse weed control strategies. Proactive and integrated measures for resistance management need to be developed to diversify control measures away from glyphosate and advance the use of non‐herbicidal techniques. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Dielectric properties of graphite‐based epoxy composites
Authors: Kranauskaite Ieva , Macutkevic Jan , Kuzhir Polina , Volynets Nadeja , Paddubskaya Alesia , Bychanok Dzmitry , Maksimenko Sergey , Banys Juras , Juskenas Remigijus , Bistarelli Silvia , Cataldo Antonino , Micciulla Federico , Bellucci Stefano , Fierro Vanessa , Celzard Alain
Published: April 2014

Composite materials based on epoxy resin filled with various kinds of graphite particles: exfoliated graphite, natural graphite, and coarse, medium and fine artificial graphites have been prepared. Results of broadband dielectric investigations of such materials in wide temperature (25–450 K) and frequency (20 Hz–3 THz) ranges are presented. The dielectric permittivity strongly increases with graphite particle size. The graphite particle size and shape also have a strong impact on freezing temperature, conductivity activation energy and composite electromagnetic absorption properties at room temperature. The lowest percolation threshold is observed for exfoliated graphite (EG)‐based composites. At low temperatures (below glass transition temperature of pure polymer matrix), the electrical conductivity in composites above the percolation threshold is mainly governed by electron tunnelling between graphite particles. At higher temperatures, electrical conductivity due to finite electrical conductivity of polymer matrix and by electron tunnelling from polymer matrix to graphite particles occurs in all composites. Microwave experiments show that EG is the only really effective additive, out of all investigated graphite particles, for producing electromagnetic interference shielding composite materials: 2 wt% of EG in epoxy is indeed not transparent for the electromagnetic radiation at 30 GHz.
Asset divestment as a response to media attacks in stigmatized industries
Authors: Durand Rodolphe , Vergne Jean‐Philippe
Published: April 2014

In stigmatized industries characterized by social contestation, hostile audiences, and distancing between industry insiders and outsiders, firms facing media attacks follow different strategies from firms in uncontested industries. Because firms avoid publicizing their tainted‐sector membership, when threatened, they can respond by divesting assets from that industry. Our analyses of the arms industry demonstrate that media attacks on the focal firm and its peers both increase the likelihood of divestment for the focal firm. Specifically, attacks on the focal firm are the most consequential, followed by attacks on peers in the same industry subcategory, and by attacks on peers in different subcategories. These findings shed new light on divestment as a response to media attacks in stigmatized industries and lead us to rethink impression management theory. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High Temperature Phase Stability and Heat Capacity of Fe‐0.28Mn‐0.55Si‐0.045C (Mass%) Magnetic Alloy: A Calorimetric Study
Authors: Tripathy Haraprasanna , Subramanian Raju , Kani Vijayashanthi Nagoor , Hajra Raj Narayan , Rai Arun Kumar , Rengachari Mythili , Saibaba Saroja , Jayakumar Tammana
Published: April 2014

The high temperature thermal stability, phase transformation characteristics and heat capacity of a Fe‐0.28Mn‐0.55Si‐0.045C (mass%) magnetic iron base alloy have been investigated by dynamic and drop calorimetry techniques. Upon slow heating, the following phase changes are found to take place: αferro + (Fe,Mn)3C → αpara + (Fe,Mn)3C → α + γ → γ → γ + δ → δ → δ + L → L; with distinct enthalpy effects. The α → γ transformation taking place upon slow heating is appreciably influenced by the dissolution kinetics of (Fe,Mn)3C phase. Enthalpy increment values were measured as a function of temperature, up to 1523 K by drop calorimetry. It is found that magnetic effects play a significant role in influencing overall thermodynamic stability. The experimental enthalpy data have been modeled using Debye–Grüneisen and Hillert–Jarl formalisms for accounting respectively the vibrational and magnetic contributions to heat capacity.
Using mutation to assess fault detection capability of model review
Authors: Arcaini Paolo , Gargantini Angelo , Riccobene Elvinia
Published: April 2014

Among validation techniques, model review is a static analysis approach that can be performed at the early stages of software development, at the specification level, and aims at determining if a model owns certain quality attributes (like completeness, consistency and minimality). However, the model review capability to detect behavioural faults has never been measured. In this paper, a methodology and a supporting tool for evaluating the fault detection capability of a NuSMV model advisor are presented, which performs an automatic static model review of NuSMV models. The approach is based on the use of mutation in a similar way as in mutation testing: several mutation operators for NuSMV models are defined, and the model advisor is used to detect behavioural faults by statically analysing mutated specifications. In this way, it is possible to measure the model advisor ability to discover faults. To improve the quality of the analysis, the equivalence between a NuSMV model and any of its mutants must be checked. To perform this task, this paper proposes a technique based on the concept of equivalent Kripke structures, as NuSMV models are Kripke structures. A number of experiments assess the fault‐detecting capability, precision and accuracy of the proposed approach. Analysis of variance is used to check if the results are statistically significant. Some relationships among mutation operators and model quality attributes are also established. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Towards an automation of the mutation analysis dedicated to model transformation
Authors: Aranega Vincent , Mottu Jean‐Marie , Etien Anne , Degueule Thomas , Baudry Benoit , Dekeyser Jean‐Luc
Published: April 2014

A benefit of model‐driven engineering relies on the automatic generation of artefacts from high‐level models through intermediary levels using model transformations. In such a process, the input must be well designed, and the model transformations should be trustworthy. Because of the specificities of models and transformations, classical software test techniques have to be adapted. Among these techniques, mutation analysis has been ported, and a set of mutation operators has been defined. However, it currently requires considerable manual work and suffers from the test data set improvement activity. This activity is a difficult and time‐consuming job and reduces the benefits of the mutation analysis. This paper addresses the test data set improvement activity. Model transformation traceability in conjunction with a model of mutation operators and a dedicated algorithm allow to automatically or semi‐automatically produce improved test models. The approach is validated and illustrated in two case studies written in Kermeta.Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acute physical stress induces the alteration of the serotonin 1A receptor density in the hippocampus
Authors: Choi Jae Yong , Shin Sora , Lee Minkyung , Jeon Tae Joo , Seo Youngbeom , Kim Chul Hoon , Kim Dong Goo , Yi Chi Hoon , Lee Kyochul , Choi Tae Hyun , Kang Jee Hae , Ryu Young Hoon
Published: April 2014

Stress affects the serotonergic system, which is associated with depression. Previous research has showed that chronic stress causes the deactivation of the limbic system. However, the influence of the acute physical stress on the serotonergic system in vivo was primarily unclear. The purpose of this research is to elucidate the effects of the acute physical stress in vivo using PET. For quantification of the 5‐HT1A receptors in the brain, we measured [18F]Mefway uptake in the two experiment groups (control and despair rats). The despair group was subjected to the external stressful situation (i.e., forced swimming) and total duration time of immobility, refers to the despair severity, and was analyzed. In the intercomparison experiment, the resulting PET images of [18F]Mefway in the despair rat displayed a significant reduction of radioactivity in the hippocampus (HP) compared with the control. The nondisplaceable binding potential (BPND) refers to the ratio of the concentration of radioligand in the receptor‐rich region (i.e., HP) to the concentration of that in the receptor‐free region (i.e., cerebellum). The hippocampal uptake and the BPND in the despair group were respectively about 25 and 18% lower than those of the control group. The ratio of specific binding to nonspecific binding in the despair group was 18% lower than that of the control. In the intracomparison experiments, the BPND and immobility in the despair group showed a strong negative correlation. Taken together, the data illustrates that an acute physical stress induces the change in the serotonergic system that correlates with the behavioral despair. Synapse 68:363–368, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modern 2D QSAR for drug discovery
Authors: Lewis Richard A. , Wood David
Published: April 2014

2D QSAR is a powerful tool for explaining the relationships between chemical structure and experimental observations. Key elements of the method are the numerical descriptors used to translate a chemical structure into mathematical variables, the quality of the observed data and the statistical methods used to derive the relationships between the observations and the descriptors. There are some caveats to what is essentially a simple procedure: overfitting of the data, domain applicability to new structures and making good error estimates for each prediction. 2D QSAR models are used routinely during the process of optimization of a chemical series towards a candidate for clinical trials. As more knowledge is gained in this area, 2D QSARs will become acceptable surrogates for experimental observations. WIREs Comput Mol Sci 2014, 4:505–522. doi: 10.1002/wcms.1187

This article is categorized under:

Structure and Mechanism > Molecular Structures

Computer and Information Science > Chemoinformatics
Scientific modeling with cellular automata
Authors: Schiff Joel L.
Published: April 2014

Cellular automata provide a simple environment in which to discretize time and space in order to investigate natural phenomena. In a two‐dimensional scenario for example, the action usually takes place in a rectangular array of cells (although other cell shapes can be used) and each cell exists in one of several ‘states’. In discrete time‐steps all cells change their state in unison according to a locally prescribed rule that takes into account the state of each cell's neighbors at the previous time‐step. This elementary but powerful framework has been highly successful in modeling various scientific phenomena from a broad spectrum of disciplines, some of which are reviewed in this article. Both qualitative and quantitative data can be obtain by the cellular automata approach.

This article is categorized under:

Algorithms and Computational Methods > Computational Complexity

Applications of Computational Statistics > Computational and Molecular Biology

Statistical Learning and Exploratory Methods of the Data Sciences > Modeling Methods
Mesh Fixation at Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Meta‐Analysis Comparing Tissue Glue and Tack Fixation
Authors: Shah Nehal S. , Fullwood Catherine , Siriwardena Ajith K. , Sheen Aali J.
Published: April 2014

Background

The aim of this study was to conduct a comprehensive systematic review comparing tissue glue (TG) against tacks/staples for mesh fixation in laparoscopic (totally extra‐peritoneal and trans‐abdominal pre‐peritoneal) groin hernia repair with the incidence of post‐operative chronic pain as the primary outcome measure.

Methods

A computerized search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases for the period from 1 January 1,990 to 30 June 2013 produced 39 reports. The quality of reports was assessed according to criteria reported by the Cochrane communication review group.

Results

Five randomized controlled trials (RCTs, 491 patients) and five non‐RCTs (1,034 patients) fulfilled the selection criteria. A meta‐analysis of chronic pain from the five RCTs gave a statistically significant Peto odds ratio (OR) of 0.40 (0.21–0.76; p = 0.005) indicating that the TG group experience less chronic pain. Although the studies are underpowered to detect recurrence, the meta‐analysis of the recurrence rates from the RCTs identified no difference between tacks/staple and glue fixation (OR 2.36; 0.67–8.37). There were also no differences found in meta‐analysis of seroma and hematoma formation between the two methods of fixation. The wide variation in time points regarding pain score meant it was not possible to combine the studies and perform analysis for pain score with earlier time points.

Conclusions

Meta‐analysis of RCTs comparing TG with tack fixation in laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery depicts a significant reduction in chronic pain with no increase in recurrence rates. Early post‐operative outcome is similar after both methods of mesh fixation, although larger RCTs are required, with long‐term pain as the primary endpoint.
Yup'ik Culture and Context in Southwest Alaska: Community Member Perspectives of Tradition, Social Change, and Prevention
Authors: Ayunerak Paula , Alstrom Deborah , Moses Charles , Charlie James , Rasmus Stacy M.
Published: April 2014

This paper provides an introduction to key aspects of Yup'ik Inuit culture and context from both historical and contemporary community member perspectives. Its purpose is to provide a framework for understanding the development and implementation of a prevention initiative centered on youth in two communities in Southwest Alaska as part of collaboration with the University of Alaska Fairbanks and the National Institutes of Health. This paper is written from the perspective of elders and local prevention workers from each of the two prevention communities. The co‐authors discuss their culture and their community from their own perspectives, drawing from direct experience and from ancestral knowledge gained through learning and living the Yuuyaraq or the Yup'ik way of life. The authors of this paper identity key aspects of traditional Yup'ik culture that once contributed to the adaptability and survivability of their ancestors, particularly through times of hardship and social disruption. These key processes and practices represent dimensions of culture in a Yup'ik context that contribute to personal and collective growth, protection and wellbeing. Intervention development in Yup'ik communities requires bridging historical cultural frames with contemporary contexts and shifting focus from reviving cultural activities to repairing and revitalizing cultural systems that structure community.
Fertility preservation in men with cancer
Authors: Chiba Koji , Fujisawa Masato
Published: April 2014

Due to recent advances in medical technologies, cancer has become more curable and chronic, and post‐treatment quality of life, including male fertility, has become an important issue. Cancer itself can affect spermatogenesis through complex interactions, and cancer treatment such as surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, all have certain detrimental effects on spermatogenesis. Currently, sperm cryopreservation before cancer treatment is the mainstay of fertility preservation, and is recommended by numerous guidelines. Although fertility preservation should be discussed with all cancer patients before treatment, it still remains underused. Postpubertal patients who are unable to bank sperm may undergo testicular sperm extraction before treatment. For prepubertal boys, there is no clinically established guideline for fertility preservation. Investigations such as spermatogonial stem cell culture are ongoing, and may lead to clinical options for fertility preservation in the future.
Improving Patient Access and Streamlining Processes through Enterprise Intelligence Systems
Authors: Dunn Ronald L.
Published: April 2014

This article demonstrates how enterprise intelligence systems can be used to improve operational efficiency in hospitals. Enterprise intelligence systems mine raw data from disparate systems and transform the data into actionable information, which when used appropriately, support streamlined processes, optimize resources, and positively affect staff efficiency and the quality of patient care. Case studies on the implementation of McKesson Performance Visibility and Capacity Planner enterprise intelligence solutions at the Southlake Regional Health Centre and Lions Gate and Richmond Hospitals are provided.
A Framework for Patient-Centred Care Coordination
Authors: Mosher David
Published: April 2014

Difficulty accessing patient information, duplication of effort, and breakdowns in communication within the medical infrastructure are some of the major issues challenging the quality of care and the efficiency of the Canadian healthcare system. In addition, patients are demanding faster access to the right services, improved outcomes, and more involvement in managing their own healthcare. This article presents a framework for patient-centred care that allows healthcare providers to deliver better and faster patient interventions with treatment plans based on a patient's complete medical history. RelayHealth provides the framework for patient-centred care coordination and fully integrates patient and provider interaction at all points on the healthcare continuum.
Successful Outsourcing: Improving Quality of Life through Integrated Support Services
Authors: Bates Jason , Sharratt Martin , King John
Published: April 2014

This article examines the way that non-clinical support services are provided in healthcare settings through outsourcing partnerships. The integrated support services model and benefits to patient experience and safety as well as organizational efficiency and effectiveness are explored through an examination of services at a busy urban community hospital.
Implementation of an Innovative Postoperative Monitoring Approach for Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: de Lacy Jane , Miller-Burnett Michelle , Bonsell Pamela , Stith Keeli , Sanchez Sharlenne
Published: April 2014

This article shares how William Osler Health System (Osler) achieved improved quality of care for clinically challenging patients using state-of-the-art technology combined with interprofessional and intermanagerial teamwork in an acute care setting. Obstructive sleep apnea, a respiratory disorder caused by upper airway obstruction, increases the risk of complications after anesthesia. Although an initial postoperative monitoring strategy designed for patients with obstructive sleep apnea at Osler ensured patient safety, it required reorganization to resolve operational challenges. Concerned stakeholders at all levels contributed to the development and implementation of a new program approach focused on remote pulse oximetry monitoring as a component of the standard of care. Osler has developed a case study to share its experience with other hospitals and health systems that are already engaged in or that are considering implementing such a program.
Améliorer l'accès des patients et harmoniser les processus grâce à des systèmes de veille
Authors: Dunn Ronald L.
Published: April 2014

Le présent article démontre l'intérêt des systèmes de veille pour améliorer l'efficacité opérationnelle des hôpitaux. Les systèmes de veille extraient des données brutes en provenance de systèmes disparates et les transforment en information exploitable qui, utilisée convenablement, soutient des processus rationalisés, optimise les ressources et contribue à l'efficacité du personnel et à la qualité des soins aux patients. Sont présentées des études de cas des solutions de veille de McKesson sur la visibilité du rendement et le planificateur de capacité mis en œuvre au Southlake Regional Health Centre, au Lions Gate Hospital et au Richmond Hospital.
Une sous-traitance réussie: Améliorer la qualité de vie par des services de soutien intégrés
Authors: Bates Jason , Sharratt Martin , King John
Published: April 2014

Dans le présent article, l'auteur examine le mode de prestation des services de soutien non cliniques dans les établissements de santé par des partenariats de sous-traitance. Il examine le modèle des services de soutien intégrés et ses avantages pour l'expérience et la sécurité des patients ainsi que pour l'efficience et l'efficacité organisationnelles dans un hôpital général urbain achalandé.
La puissance de la mobilisation: Créer une culture d'investissement personnel et d'harmonie
Authors: Studer Quint , Hagins Mitch , Cochrane Bonnie S.
Published: April 2014

Le gouvernement canadien convient officiellement de l'importance de la mobilisation du personnel pour prodiguer de meilleurs soins. Les données probantes démontrent que la mobilisation est liée à de meilleurs résultats financiers, à une plus grande sécurité des patients et à de meilleurs résultats cliniques. Dans le milieu de la santé, les leaders doivent créer des cultures organisationnelles favorisant une meilleure mobilisation des employés et des médecins, de meilleurs soins cliniques et des coûts moins élevés. Le présent article expose les recherches et l'expérience sur les avantages de la mobilisation, explore l'approche de Studer Group pour améliorer à la fois la mobilisation et la qualité, et transmet les résultats obtenus par les partenaires canadiens de l'entreprise. De plus, il énonce quelques-uns des éléments fondamentaux qui, ensemble, créent les cultures de mobilisation nécessaires au sein des organisations.
L'adoption d'une surveillance postopératoire novatrice chez les patients atteints d'apnée obstructive du sommeil
Authors: de Lacy Jane , Miller-Burnett Michelle , Bonsell Pamela , Stith Keeli , Sanchez Sharlenne
Published: April 2014

Le présent article présente la manière dont le William Osler Health System (Osler) a réussi à améliorer la qualité des soins aux patients qui représentent un défi sur le plan clinique grâce à une technologie de pointe associée à un travail d'équipe interprofessionnel et intermanagérial en milieu aigu. L'apnée obstructive du sommeil, un trouble respiratoire causé par l'obstruction des voies respiratoires supérieures, accroît le risque de complications après l'anesthésie. Même si à Osler, une première stratégie de surveillance postopératoire conçue pour les patients atteints d'apnée obstructive du sommeil assurait la sécurité des patients, elle s'associait à des problèmes opérationnels qui ont justifié une réorganisation. Des intervenants interpellés par la situation à tous les échelons ont contribué à l'élaboration et à la mise en œuvre d'une nouvelle approche thérapeutique axée sur la surveillance à distance de la saturométrie, qu'ils ont intégrée aux normes de soins. Osler a préparé une étude de cas pour partager son expérience avec d'autres hôpitaux et systèmes de santé qui possèdent déjà un tel programme ou envisagent d'en adopter un.
Strategy compatibility: The time versus money effect on product evaluation strategies
Authors: Su Lei , Gao Leilei
Published: April 2014

We show that time priming leads consumers to adopt an alternative‐based evaluation strategy, whereas money priming elicits the use of an attribute‐based evaluation strategy. In Experiment 1, we used process tracing in Mouselab to test this proposition, and the results suggested that the effect of time versus money priming on the choice of product‐evaluation strategy was mediated by a holistic versus piecemeal information‐processing. The results of Experiments 2A and 2B showed that the use of time versus money priming to trigger the choice of an alternative‐based versus attribute‐based evaluation strategy may result in systematic preference reversals. Specifically, when time (versus money) was primed, the participants were found to be more likely to choose a product dominating on a verbally described (versus numerically described) attribute (Experiment 2A), and one dominating on a non‐alignable (versus alignable) attribute (Experiment 2B).
GOOD FAITH AND THE TRIPS AGREEMENT: PUTTING FLESH ON THE BONES OF THE TRIPS ‘OBJECTIVES’
Authors: Slade Alison
Published: April 2014

The WTO Panel decision inUnited States–Section 211 Omnibus Appropriations Act 1998provides an interesting, and as yet under-appreciated, explanation of the function of one of the most politically debated articles of the TRIPS Agreement—Article 7. This provision has received limited recognition from the Dispute Settlement Body of the WTO. Consequently, the Panel's interpretation of Article 7 as an expression of thegood faithprinciple is noteworthy, and is one that is not disavowed by the Appellate Body. Not only does the Panel acknowledge Article 7 as an effective source of law within the international intellectual property system, but in doing so it introduces into the TRIPS Agreement legal concepts that are not explicit within the text. This has implications for the function of this provision and also for the nature of the obligations arising under the Agreement for Member States. This article analyses the potential significance of this development by defining the scope of the good faith principle within the TRIPS Agreement. Particular reference will also be made to the role Article 7, as an expression of the good faith principle, may have in the forthcoming WTO dispute against Australia and its law on plain packaging for tobacco products.
Information and Self-Enforcing Democracy: The Role of International Election Observation
Authors: Hyde Susan D. , Marinov Nikolay
Published: April 2014

This article argues that when democracy is not yet institutionalized, leaders have little incentive to push for clean elections, in part because they are likely to face accusations of fraud from domestic opposition groups regardless of their true behavior. Reputable international election observers can facilitate self-enforcing democracy by providing credible information about the quality of elections, thus increasing citizens’ ability to coordinate against the regime when election fraud occurs, and discrediting “sore loser” protests. Patterns of postelection protests are consistent with the argument, including that postelection protests are more likely and last longer following negative reports from international observers. International election observers help promote democracy by making postelection protest more accurate in the short term, thereby increasing incentives for leaders to hold democratic elections in the long term.
Wheat seedlings growth response to water deficiency and how it correlates with adult plant tolerance to drought
Authors: DODIG D. , ZORIĆ M. , JOVIĆ M. , KANDIĆ V. , STANISAVLJEVIĆ R. , ŠURLAN-MOMIROVIĆ G.
Published: April 2014

Improving resistance to water and osmotic stresses at the seedling stage is becoming a much more important target for wheat breeders due to an increase in the frequency and severity of drought occurrences at the crop establishment and tillering phases in many wheat growing areas of the world. Ninety-six diverse wheat genotypes were laboratory tested for germination and growth response under osmotic stress induced by polyethylene glycol (PEG). Germination percentage, mean germination time, coleoptile length, shoot length and shoot growth rate were compared under stress (−0·4 MPa) and control (0·0 MPa) conditions. The same genotypes were previously grown in field trials exposed to drought stress during the anthesis and/or grain filling growth stage along with control (optimum) conditions. Grain yield (GY) and 19 other traits of agronomic importance (earliness, stem-related traits, number of kernels, mass of 1000 grains, etc.) were recorded. All seedling traits under PEG-induced water stress showed the highest relationship with the stem and stem-related traits of adult plants. To study the correlation between stress tolerance in the seedling and reproductive stages, three stress indices (tolerance index (TOL), stress susceptibility index (SSI) and stress tolerance index (STI)) for the seedling traits and GY under pre- and post-anthesis drought stress were calculated, based on a mean trait value obtained under stress and the corresponding trait value under control conditions. The ranking of the genotypes based on TOL and STI from seedling traits was found in most cases to be significantly correlated with the ranking of genotypes based on TOL and STI from GY, respectively.
Effects of the vertical and horizontal availability of food resources: the diet selection of sheep grazing on natural grassland
Authors: CHEN W. Q. , WANG X. Y. , ZHANG Y. J. , HUANG D.
Published: April 2014

The relationship between sheep diet selection and the vertical/horizontal availability of plant species on complex natural Leymus chinensis grassland was investigated. Two plots (low and high stocking rate plots) with different vegetation availabilities, created by adjusting sheep numbers, were studied for 3 months (June, July and August). In each month, the sheep's diet composition was estimated using n-alkanes in combination with long-chain alcohols and/or fatty acid markers. Vertical (sward surface height) and horizontal food availability (proportion cover of individual plant species) were determined simultaneously. The results revealed that sheep diet composition varied greatly according to seasonal variations in vegetation availability, and that sheep diet selection was related to the vertical and horizontal availability of plant species on both plots. Horizontal availability, which turned out to be the main influencing factor, was strongly and positively correlated with sheep diet composition in each month on both plots. On the low stocking rate plot, vertical availability affected sheep consumption in June, July and August. In contrast, a significant correlation between diet composition and vertical availability was only observed in July on the high stocking rate plot. These results suggest that the relative importance of vertical and horizontal availability differed between plots depending on vegetation availability. Horizontal availability played a more important role than vertical availability when sheep grazed freely on natural L. chinensis grassland. Finally, the changing selectivity index for each plant species in each grazing period on both plots indicated different grazing impacts on vegetation communities when vegetation availability differed.
Seasonal changes in size, sex-ratio and body condition of the damselfishChromis chromisin the central Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Bracciali Claudia , Piovano Susanna , Sarà Gianluca , Giacoma Cristina
Published: April 2014

Chromis chromisis one of the most abundant fish species on the Mediterranean rocky shores. Acting as a by-pass of nutrients from the pelagic to the rocky littoral system, it plays an important role as a resource provider and has a relevant function in the community assemblage.Chromis chromishas many of the characteristics required of an indicator species (e.g. it is easy to recognize in the field, small sized, widespread and abundant). In this study we focused on individual size, sex-ratio and body condition in a damselfish population occurring in a central Mediterranean marine protected area. Fishing trials on a monthly basis (April–November) allowed us to assess seasonal changes in population structure. Fish were measured and weighed and a subsample was aged and sexed. On average, males were larger than females. The allometric coefficient,b, for the whole population was 2.99; the maximum age recorded was 7.5 yr. Before reproduction sex-ratio was close to parity (M:F 1:0.78), while a larger proportion of females was captured during the reproductive period. In conclusion, our results show that the population dynamics ofC. chromisis influenced by both sex and size. Since males and females have different behavioural strategies, and since the length of the spawning period is shorter in the smaller than in the larger-sized individuals, this is reflected in temporal changes observed in the population structure.
Seasonal changes in the intertidal algal communities of Sanya Bay (Hainan Island, China)
Authors: Titlyanov Eduard A. , Titlyanova Tamara V. , Li Xiubao , Hansen Gayle I. , Huang Hui
Published: April 2014

A floristic study of marine macrophytic algae and Cyanobacteria in the splash and intertidal zones at Luhuitou reef, Sanya Bay, Hainan Island, China, was conducted during the rainy and dry seasons of 2008−2012 utilizing 148 of the most common species. Macrophytic algal diversity increased from the splash zone to the low intertidal zone, while cyanobacterial diversity decreased. In the upper and middle intertidal zones, the dominant species (primarily highly productive ephemerals) changed frequently throughout each year. In the low intertidal zone, the dominant species (mainly annual fleshy, foliose and coriaceous forms) also changed. In the dry season, species numbers were 33% higher than in the rainy season. During the rainy season, Cyanobacteria dominated the splash zone, while green and red algae dominated in increasing numbers from the upper to the low intertidal zones. During the dry season the splash zone was devoid of all macrophytic algae, and only one species of Cyanobacteria survived. In the upper intertidal, Cyanobacteria and red algae prevailed, while in the mid and low zones, red and green algae were the most diverse. In spite of heavy pollution in Sanya Bay, there was no evidence of dramatic changes in species numbers or composition, and the marine flora was similar to that of unpolluted regions in the Indo-Pacific.
Mechanisms underpinning inattention and hyperactivity: neurocognitive support for ADHD dimensionality
Authors: Salum G. A. , Sonuga-Barke E. , Sergeant J. , Vandekerckhove J. , Gadelha A. , Moriyama T. S. , Graeff-Martins A. S. , Manfro G. G. , Polanczyk G. , Rohde L. A. P.
Published: April 2014

Background.

Taxometric and behavioral genetic studies suggest that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is best modeled as a dimension rather than a category. We extended these analyses by testing for the existence of putative ADHD-related deficits in basic information processing (BIP) and inhibitory-based executive function (IB-EF) in individuals in the subclinical and full clinical ranges. Consistent with the dimensional model, we predicted that ADHD-related deficits would be expressed across the full spectrum, with the degree of deficit linearly related to the severity of the clinical presentation.

Method.

A total of 1547 children (aged 6–12 years) participated in the study. The Development and Well-Being Assessment (DAWBA) was used to classify children into groups according to levels of inattention and hyperactivity independently: (1) asymptomatic, (2) subthreshold minimal, (3) subthreshold moderate and (4) clinical ADHD. Neurocognitive performance was evaluated using a two-choice reaction time task (2C-RT) and a conflict control task (CCT). BIP and IB-EF measures were derived using a diffusion model (DM) for decomposition of reaction time (RT) and error data.

Results.

Deficient BIP was found in subjects with minimal, moderate and full ADHD defined in terms of inattention (in both tasks) and hyperactivity/impulsivity dimensions (in the 2C-RT). The size of the deficit increased in a linear manner across increasingly severe presentations of ADHD. IB-EF was unrelated to ADHD.

Conclusions.

Deficits in BIP operate at subclinical and clinical levels of ADHD. The linear nature of this relationship provides support for a dimensional model of ADHD in which diagnostic thresholds are defined in terms of clinical and societal burden rather than representing discrete pathophysiological states.
Cognitive–behavioural therapy augments the effects of deep brain stimulation in obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: Mantione M. , Nieman D. H. , Figee M. , Denys D.
Published: April 2014

Background.

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a promising new treatment for patients with treatment-refractory obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). However, since most DBS patients only show a partial response, the treatment still needs to be improved. In this study we hypothesized that cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) could optimize the post-operative management in DBS and we evaluated the efficacy of CBT as augmentation to DBS targeted at the nucleus accumbens.

Method.

A total of 16 patients with treatment-refractory OCD were treated with DBS targeted at the nucleus accumbens. After stabilization of decline in OCD symptoms, a standardized 24-week CBT treatment programme was added to DBS in an open-phase trial of 8 months. Changes in obsessive–compulsive, anxiety and depressive symptoms were evaluated using the Yale–Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale, Hamilton Anxiety Scale and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression.

Results.

Following the addition of CBT to DBS, a significant decrease in obsessive–compulsive symptoms was observed, but not in anxiety and depressive symptoms. In a subsequent double-blind phase, in which stimulation was discontinued, OCD symptoms returned to baseline (relapse) and anxiety and depressive symptoms worsened (rebound) compared with baseline.

Conclusions.

The results of this explorative study suggest that a combined treatment of accumbens DBS and CBT may be optimal for improving obsessive–compulsive symptoms in treatment-refractory OCD. However, a subsequent randomized controlled trial is necessary to draw firm conclusions. It seems that DBS results in affective changes that may be required to enable response prevention in CBT. This may indicate that DBS and CBT act as two complementary treatments.
Longitudinal epigenetic variation of DNA methyltransferase genes is associated with vulnerability to post-traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Sipahi L. , Wildman D. E. , Aiello A. E. , Koenen K. C. , Galea S. , Abbas A. , Uddin M.
Published: April 2014

Background.

Epigenetic differences exist between trauma-exposed individuals with and without post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is unclear whether these epigenetic differences pre-exist, or arise following, trauma and PTSD onset.

Method.

In pre- and post-trauma samples from a subset of Detroit Neighborhood Health Study participants, DNA methylation (DNAm) was measured at DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1),DNMT3A, DNMT3BandDNMT3L. Pre-trauma DNAm differences and changes in DNAm from pre- to post-trauma were assessed between and within PTSD cases (n = 30) and age-, gender- and trauma exposure-matched controls (n = 30). Pre-trauma DNAm was tested for association with post-trauma symptom severity (PTSS) change. Potential functional consequences of DNAm differences were explored via bioinformatic search for putative transcription factor binding sites (TFBS).

Results.

DNMT1DNAm increased following trauma in PTSD cases (p = 0.001), but not controls (p = 0.067).DNMT3AandDNMT3BDNAm increased following trauma in both cases (DNMT3A:p = 0.009;DNMT3B:p < 0.001) and controls (DNMT3A:p = 0.002;DNMT3B:p < 0.001). In cases only, pre-trauma DNAm was lower at aDNMT3BCpG site that overlaps with a TFBS involved in epigenetic regulation (p = 0.001); lower pre-traumaDNMT3BDNAm at this site was predictive of worsening of PTSS post-trauma (p = 0.034). Some effects were attenuated following correction for multiple hypothesis testing.

Conclusions.

DNAm among trauma-exposed individuals shows both longitudinal changes and pre-existing epigenetic states that differentiate individuals who are resilientversussusceptible to PTSD. These distinctive DNAm differences withinDNMTloci may contribute to genome-wide epigenetic profiles of PTSD.
The role of oxytocin in empathy to the pain of conflictual out-group members among patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Abu-Akel A. , Fischer-Shofty M. , Levkovitz Y. , Decety J. , Shamay-Tsoory S.
Published: April 2014

Background.

Oxytocin (OT) is associated with our ability to empathize and has been shown to play a major role in mediating social behaviors within the context of intergroup dynamics. Schizophrenia is associated with impaired empathy, and with a dysfunctional oxytocinergic system. The effect of OT on the empathic responses of patients with schizophrenia within the context of intergroup relationships has not been studied. The present study examined the effect of OT on the patients' empathic responses to pain experienced by in-group, conflictual out-group and neutral out-group members.

Method.

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, within-subject cross-over design, the responses on the Pain Evaluation Task of 28 male patients with schizophrenia were compared to 27 healthy male controls. All participants received a single intranasal dose of 24 IU OT or placebo, 1 week apart.

Results.

OT induced an empathy bias in the healthy controls towards the conflictual out-group members. Although this effect was absent in the patient group, OT seems to heighten an empathic bias in the patient group towards the in-group members when rating non-painful stimuli.

Conclusions.

The study demonstrates that the administration of OT can result in empathic bias towards adversary out-group members in healthy controls but not in patients with schizophrenia. However, the OT-induced bias in both the patients (in the no-pain condition towards the in-group members) and the healthy controls (in the no-pain and pain conditions towards the adversary out-group) suggests that OT enhances the distinction between conflictual in-group and out-group members.
The problem of religious evil
Authors: KODAJ DANIEL
Published: April 2014

The article argues that evils perpetrated in the name of God (‘religious evils') generate a special version of the problem of evil, and a concomitant evidential argument, that cannot be solved by any of the current defences and theodicies. The article draws on historical examples to clarify the concept of religious evil, it shows that religious evil is a candidate defeater of theism, and it claims that the resulting evidential argument cannot be defused by defences and theodicies currently on offer. The last section outlines a solution.
The Italo-Libyan Relationship between 1969 and 1976
Authors: Toaldo Mattia
Published: April 2014

Based on the papers of former Italian statesman Aldo Moro and on several secondary sources, this article investigates the Italo-Libyan relationship between the rise to power of Qadhafi in 1969 and the mid-1970s. Qadhafi initially pursued a policy of confrontation with the former colonial power: he expelled the remaining Italian citizens in Libya, asked for post-colonial compensations and a revision of the 1956 treaty.

Gradually, however, a new relationship developed: Italy badly needed Libyan oil, especially in view of the closing of the Suez Canal because of the Arab-Israeli wars, while Qadhafi needed to secure a fixed amount of oil revenues in order to build up domestic and international support for his revolution. Italian companies were also granted public works which were meant to improve Libyan infrastructure while Libyan oil profits could be invested in Italian stocks. Finally, Italy would provide Qadhafi with weapons and support for his regime, as the revelations about the ‘Hilton Assignment’ demonstrate. The author argues that this relationship gave both actors a wide freedom of manoeuvre within the context of the Cold War.