bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Queueing Theoretic Approach to Set Staffing Levels in Time‐Dependent Dual‐Class Service Systems*
Authors: Vile J. L. , Gillard J. W. , Harper P. R. , Knight V. A.
Published: July 2016

This article addresses the optimal staffing problem for a nonpreemptive priority queue with two customer classes and a time‐dependent arrival rate. The problem is related to several important service settings such as call centers and emergency departments where the customers are grouped into two classes of “high priority” and “low priority,” and the services are typically evaluated according to the proportion of customers who are responded to within targeted response times. To date, only approximation methods have been explored to generate staffing requirements for time‐dependent dual‐class services, but we propose a tractable numerical approach to evaluate system behavior and generate safe minimum staffing levels using mixed discrete‐continuous time Markov chains (MDCTMCs). Our approach is delicate in that it accounts for the behavior of the system under a number of different rules that may be imposed on staff if they are busy when due to leave and involves explicitly calculating delay distributions for two customer classes. Ultimately, we embed our methodology in a proposed extension of the Euler method, coined Euler Pri, that can cope with two customer classes, and use it to recommend staffing levels for the Welsh Ambulance Service Trust (WAST).
Body size but not colony size increases with altitude in the holarctic ant, Leptothorax acervorum
Authors: BERNADOU ABEL , RÖMERMANN CHRISTINE , GRATIASHVILI NANA , HEINZE JÜRGEN
Published: July 2016

1. Bergmann's rule states that organisms inhabiting colder environments show an increase in body size or mass in comparison to their conspecifics living in warmer climates. Although originally proposed for homoeothermic vertebrates, this rule was later extended to ectotherms. In social insects, only a few studies have tested this rule and the results were ambiguous. Here, ‘body size’ can be considered at two different levels (the size of the individual workers or the size of the colony).

2. In this study, data from 53 nests collected along altitudinal gradients in the Alps were used to test the hypotheses that the worker body size and colony size of the ant Leptothorax acervorum increase with increasing altitude and therefore follow Bergmann's rule.

3. The results show that the body size of workers but not the colony size increases with altitude. Whether this pattern is driven by starvation resistance or other mechanisms remains to be investigated.
Syphilitic dementia and lipid metabolism
Authors: Jiang Y. , Zhang Y. F. , Liu M. , Ma L. L. , Peng F. H. , Huang Q. L. , Ma X. M. , Chen X. H.
Published: July 2016

Background and purpose

Chronic syphilitic infection may lead to dementia. It is in general paresis (GP), which is the major late form of neurosyphilis, that cognitive impairment frequently occurs. The association between lipid metabolism and GP is unclear.

Methods

In this study, serum lipids were studied in 188 GP patients, in 241 syphilitic patients without neurosyphilis and in 539 healthy controls. The Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) was tested in all GP patients. Thirty‐five GP patients had a follow‐up evaluation 3 months after penicillin treatment.

Results

Significantly lower apolipoprotein A‐I (apoA‐I) levels were found in GP and in syphilitic patients without neurosyphilis compared to controls. In the 25–44‐year‐old groups, the male syphilitic patients without neurosyphilis had lower serum apoA‐I levels and higher apolipoprotein B (apoB)/apoA‐I ratios compared with female patients. A follow‐up evaluation of 35 GP patients 3 months after penicillin treatment showed a significant positive correlation between increased apoA‐I levels and MMSE scores.

Conclusion

Abnormal apoA‐I metabolism may be associated with the decline of cognitive performance. Long‐term decrease of apoA‐I level and higher apoB/apoA‐I ratio may be contributing factors in syphilitic dementia. These results suggest a similar overlap between syphilitic dementia and lipid metabolism to that occurring in Alzheimer's disease.
Islands in the ice stream: were spawning habitats for native salmonids in the Great Lakes created by paleo‐ice streams?
Authors: Riley Stephen C , Binder Thomas R , Tucker Taaja R , Menzies John , Eyles Nick , Janssen John , Muir Andrew M , Esselman Peter C , Wattrus Nigel J , Krueger Charles C
Published: July 2016

Lake troutSalvelinus namaycush, lake whitefishCoregonus clupeaformisand ciscoCoregonus artediare salmonid fishes native to the Laurentian Great Lakes that spawn on rocky substrates in the fall and early winter. After comparing the locations of spawning habitat for these species in the main basin of Lake Huron with surficial substrates and the hypothesized locations of fast‐flowing Late Wisconsinan paleo‐ice streams, we hypothesize that much of the spawning habitat for these species in Lake Huron is the result of deposition and erosion by paleo‐ice streams. This hypothesis may represent a new framework for the identification and protection of spawning habitat for these native species, some of which are currently rare or extirpated in some of the Great Lakes. We further suggest that paleo‐ice streams may have been responsible for the creation of native salmonid spawning habitat elsewhere in the Great Lakes and in other glaciated landscapes.
Family Interventions for Schizophrenia and the Psychoses: A Review
Authors: McFarlane William R.
Published: July 2016

Family psychoeducation as a treatment for schizophrenia was developed 40 years ago almost simultaneously and independently by investigators who at the time were not family therapists. Although the original goal was to decrease high expressed emotion as a means of preventing relapse, later variations have gone beyond to focus on social and role functioning and family well‐being. Explicitly disavowing the earlier assumptions that family pathology caused relapse and deterioration, family psychoeducation seeks to engage family members as more sophisticated partners, complementing interventions by clinicians with specialized interactions and coping skills that counter the neurologic deficits inherent to the disorder. It has proved to be one of the most consistently effective treatments available. Reports on outcome studies now number more than 100, while meta‐analyses put relapse rate reduction at 50–60% over treatment as usual. The most recent application in first episode and prodromal psychosis, combined with other evidence‐based interventions, is yielding perhaps the most promising results yet achieved—substantial return of functioning and avoidance of psychosis altogether. Reviewed here are its scientific, theoretical, and clinical sources, a description of the most commonly applied version—the multifamily group format, selected clinical trials spanning those four decades, international and ethnic adaptations, and studies on mechanisms of efficacy.
Intestinal permeability and P‐glycoprotein‐mediated efflux transport of ticagrelor in Caco‐2 monolayer cells
Authors: Marsousi Niloufar , Doffey‐Lazeyras Fabienne , Rudaz Serge , Desmeules Jules A. , Daali Youssef
Published: July 2016

Ticagrelor is the unique reversible oral antiplatelet drug commercialized today. During this study, the intestinal permeability of ticagrelor and its potential P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp)‐mediated active transport were assessed. To this end, bidirectional transport of ticagrelor was performed across Caco‐2 (human epithelial colorectal adenocarcinoma) monolayer model in the presence and absence of potent P‐gp inhibitor valspodar. Ticagrelor presented an apical–basolateral apparent permeability coefficient (Papp) of 6.0 × 10−6 cm/s. On the other hand, mean efflux ratio (ER) of 2.71 was observed for ticagrelor describing a higher efflux permeability compared to the influx component. Valspodar showed a significant inhibitory effect on the efflux of ticagrelor suggesting involvement of P‐gp in its oral disposition. Co‐incubation of the P‐gp inhibitor decreased the efflux Papp of ticagrelor from 1.60 × 10−5 to 1.13 × 10−5 cm/s and decreased its ER by 70%. Results suggest a modest active transport of ticagrelor by P‐gp across the Caco‐2 cell monolayer. The co‐administration of ticagrelor with a P‐gp inhibitor seems altogether unlikely to have an extended impact on pharmacokinetics of ticagrelor and cause bleeding events in patients.
A meta‐analysis of soil salinization effects on nitrogen pools, cycles and fluxes in coastal ecosystems
Authors: Zhou Minghua , Butterbach‐Bahl Klaus , Vereecken Harry , Brüggemann Nicolas
Published: July 2016

Salinity intrusion caused by land subsidence resulting from increasing groundwater abstraction, decreasing river sediment loads and increasing sea level because of climate change has caused widespread soil salinization in coastal ecosystems. Soil salinization may greatly alter nitrogen (N) cycling in coastal ecosystems. However, a comprehensive understanding of the effects of soil salinization on ecosystem N pools, cycling processes and fluxes is not available for coastal ecosystems. Therefore, we compiled data from 551 observations from 21 peer‐reviewed papers and conducted a meta‐analysis of experimental soil salinization effects on 19 variables related to N pools, cycling processes and fluxes in coastal ecosystems. Our results showed that the effects of soil salinization varied across different ecosystem types and salinity levels. Soil salinization increased plant N content (18%), soil NH4+ (12%) and soil total N (210%), although it decreased soil NO3− (2%) and soil microbial biomass N (74%). Increasing soil salinity stimulated soil N2O fluxes as well as hydrological NH4+ and NO2− fluxes more than threefold, although it decreased the hydrological dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) flux (59%). Soil salinization also increased the net N mineralization by 70%, although salinization effects were not observed on the net nitrification, denitrification and dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium in this meta‐analysis. Overall, this meta‐analysis improves our understanding of the responses of ecosystem N cycling to soil salinization, identifies knowledge gaps and highlights the urgent need for studies on the effects of soil salinization on coastal agro‐ecosystem and microbial N immobilization. Additional increases in knowledge are critical for designing sustainable adaptation measures to the predicted intrusion of salinity intrusion so that the productivity of coastal agro‐ecosystems can be maintained or improved and the N losses and pollution of the natural environment can be minimized.
Tax Evasion, Corruption and Tax Loopholes
Authors: Marjit Sugata , Thum Marcel , Seidel André
Published: July 2016

This paper addresses tax loopholes that allow firms to exploit borderline cases between legal tax avoidance and illegal tax evasion. In general, tax loopholes are detrimental to a revenue-maximizing government. This may change in the presence of corruption in the tax administration. Tax loopholes may serve as a separating mechanism that helps governments maximize revenues and curb corruption, which may explain why developing countries only gradually close loopholes in their tax codes.
An updated systematic review and meta‐analysis on the association between Helicobacter pylori infection and iron deficiency anemia
Authors: Hudak Lauren , Jaraisy Ameen , Haj Saeda , Muhsen Khitam
Published: July 2016

Background

We conducted an updated systematic review and meta‐analysis to examine the prevalence of depleted iron stores among persons infected with Helicobacter pylori compared to uninfected ones. We also assessed the impact of anti‐H. pylori eradication therapy plus iron therapy on ferritin and hemoglobin levels compared to iron therapy alone.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using the databases Medline, the Cochrane Library, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, and the Science Citation Index Expanded. Observational studies with methodological quality score of 13 (median score) and above, on a scale of 0–16, and all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were eligible for the meta‐analyses. Pooled point estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were obtained using the random effects model.

Results

Compared to uninfected persons, H. pylori‐infected individuals showed increased likelihood of iron deficiency anemia (14 observational studies); pooled OR 1.72 (95% CI 1.23–2.42); iron deficiency (pooled OR 1.33; 95% CI 1.15–1.54; 30 studies); and anemia (pooled OR 1.15; 95% CI 1.00–1.32; 23 studies). Meta‐analyses of seven RCTs showed increased ferritin, standardized mean difference (SMD) 0.53 (95% 0.21–0.85), but not hemoglobin, SMD 0.36 (95% −0.07 to 0.78), Pv=.1, following anti‐H. pylori eradication therapy plus iron therapy as compared with iron therapy alone. Significant heterogeneity was found among studies, as well as evidence of publication bias.

Conclusions

Current evidence indicates increased likelihood of depleted iron stores in relation to H. pylori infection. H. pylori eradication therapy, added to iron therapy, might be beneficial in increasing ferritin and hemoglobin levels.
Variation in human sweet taste receptor may result in different levels of sweet intensity variability between sweet stimuli
Authors: Waksmonski James C. , Koppel Kadri
Published: July 2016

Understanding the physiological activation and genetic variation of the sweet taste receptor (T1R) can improve formula optimisation for products intended for a population of genetically diverse people. Computer modelling and cell culture techniques have thoroughly described the structure and binding sites of the T1R. The structure contains two subunits (T1R2 and T1R3) with multiple domains where sweet molecules can interact. The interaction takes place between individual molecules and amino acid residues of the T1R. The residues with which individual molecules interact differ between sweeteners. Person‐to‐person differences in the residue sequence of the T1R can arise from variation in the genes that encode the T1R, potentially effecting the function of the receptor. As a result of the specificity of the binding interactions, a specific genetic variation may affect sensitivity to some sweeteners, while sensitivity to other sweeteners remains normal. Therefore, it can be hypothesised that the level of person‐to‐person sweetness sensitivity variation may differ for each sweetener depending on the binding site of the molecule and site of T1R variation. The T1R structure, binding sites and genetic variation will be reviewed, as well as potential parameters to predict the degree of sensitivity variation and formulation strategies to minimise the effects of sensitivity variation.
Juncker's political European Commission and an EU in crisis
Authors: Peterson John
Published: July 2016

This article investigates the European Commission under the Presidency of Jean‐Claude Juncker during a time of acute crisis in the European Union. It asks what it means for Juncker to preside over a ‘political Commission’, following his appointment as the so‐called Spitzenkandidat of the centre‐right after the 2014 EP European Parliament election. More generally, it considers what makes the Juncker Commission distinctive. We ask whether Juncker views his EP mandate as giving him licence to head a Commission that is more ambitious than those headed by his predecessor, José Manuel Barroso. We provide empirical raw material for theorizing about the EU, particularly given the prominence of the new intergovernmentalism as a theoretical paradigm of European integration. We argue that it is time to redefine the term ‘intergovernmental’, especially given how the Commission has become more directly linked to and dependent on EU national capitals in a time of acute crisis.
Periodontal diseases and carotid intima‐media thickness in Bangladesh
Authors: Wu Fen , Chen Yu , Demmer Ryan T. , Parvez Faruque , Paul Rina Rani , Shaheen Ishrat , Sarwar Golam , Ahmed Alauddin , Eunus Mahbub , Ahsan Nafiz , Habibullah Nur Mohammad , Islam Tariqul , Rundek Tatjana , Ahsan Habibul , Desvarieux Moise
Published: July 2016

Aim

To evaluate the relationship between periodontal diseases and subclinical atherosclerosis in a younger and lean South Asian population.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study in 917 subjects (mean age 46 years and mean body mass index 21.1 kg/m2) from the Health Effects of Arsenic Longitudinal Study in Bangladesh. Multivariate linear regression models were used to assess the associations between multiple clinical measures of periodontal diseases and carotid intima‐media thickness (IMT).

Results

Mean attachment loss (AL) and percentage of sites with AL ≥ 4 mm (% AL ≥ 4) were associated with increased IMT. The IMT was 20.0‐μm (95% CI: 2.2, 37.8) and 26.5‐μm (95% CI: 8.9, 44.1) higher in subjects in the top quartile of mean AL (>3.72 mm) and % AL ≥ 4 (>58.4%), respectively, compared to those in the bottom quartile. In a subset of 366 subjects, mean AL was positively associated with plasma levels of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (p < 0.05) and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Attachment loss was associated with subclinical atherosclerosis in this young and lean Bangladeshi population. Future prospective studies are needed to confirm this association.
Nurse and midwifery education and intimate partner violence: a scoping review
Authors: Crombie Nerissa , Hooker Leesa , Reisenhofer Sonia
Published: July 2016

Aims and Objectives

This scoping review aims to identify the scope of current literature considering nurse/midwife educational practices in the areas of intimate partner violence to inform future nursing/midwifery educational policy and practice.

Background

Intimate partner violence is a global issue affecting a significant portion of the community. Healthcare professionals including nurses/midwives in hospital‐ and community‐based environments are likely to encounter affected women and need educational strategies that support best practice and promote positive outcomes for abused women and their families.

Design

Scoping review of relevant literature from January 2000 to July 2015.

Method

Search of databases: CINHAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PROQUEST Central and COCHRANE Library. Reference lists from included articles were searched for relevant literature as were several grey literature sources.

Results

This review demonstrates low levels of undergraduate or postregistration intimate partner violence education for nursing/midwifery staff and students. Existing intimate partner violence education strategies are varied in implementation, method and content. Outcomes of these educational programmes are not always rigorously evaluated for staff or client‐based outcomes.

Conclusions

Further research is needed to evaluate existing intimate partner violence education programmes for nurses/midwives and identify the most effective strategies to promote improved clinical practice and outcomes for abused women and their families.

Relevance to clinical practice

Intimate partner violence has a significant social and public health impact. The World Health Organization has identified the need to ensure that healthcare professionals are adequately trained to meet the needs of abused women. Intimate partner violence education programmes, commencing at undergraduate studies for nurses/midwives, need to be implemented with rigorously evaluated programmes to ensure they meet identified objectives, promote best practice and improve care for abused women.
Does Spontaneous Favorability to Power (vs. Universalism) Values Predict Spontaneous Prejudice and Discrimination?
Authors: Souchon Nicolas , Maio Gregory R. , Hanel Paul H. P. , Bardin Brigitte
Published: July 2016

Objective

We conducted five studies testing whether an implicit measure of favorability toward power over universalism values predicts spontaneous prejudice and discrimination.

Method

Studies 1 (N = 192) and 2 (N = 86) examined correlations between spontaneous favorability toward power (vs. universalism) values, achievement (vs. benevolence) values, and a spontaneous measure of prejudice toward ethnic minorities. Study 3 (N = 159) tested whether conditioning participants to associate power values with positive adjectives and universalism values with negative adjectives (or inversely) affects spontaneous prejudice. Study 4 (N = 95) tested whether decision bias toward female handball players could be predicted by spontaneous attitude toward power (vs. universalism) values. Study 5 (N = 123) examined correlations between spontaneous attitude toward power (vs. universalism) values, spontaneous importance toward power (vs. universalism) values, and spontaneous prejudice toward Black African people.

Results

Spontaneous positivity toward power (vs. universalism) values was associated with spontaneous negativity toward minorities and predicted gender bias in a decision task, whereas the explicit measures did not.

Conclusions

These results indicate that the implicit assessment of evaluative responses attached to human values helps to model value‐attitude‐behavior relations.
HISTORICAL LEGACY AND POLICY EFFECTIVENESS: THE LONG‐TERM INFLUENCE OF PREUNIFICATION BORDERS IN ITALY
Authors: d'Adda Giovanna , de Blasio Guido
Published: July 2016

This paper investigates the interplay between cultural traditions and policy effectiveness. It explores the differential impact of a large development program (Cassa per il Mezzogiorno), implemented for four decades, starting in the 1950s, to stimulate convergence between Italy's south and the more developed north, on municipalities with different histories. Namely, we consider a sample of municipalities located on either side of the historical border of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, whose legacy is considered, from Putnam onwards, to be a prime‐facie cause of Southern Italy's underdevelopment. Having been part of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies is associated with a negative impact of development policies, but only when the allocation of development funds through the Cassa per il Mezzogiorno suffered from low quality of governance and was driven by political considerations rather than by efficiency ones.
Serum bile acids as marker for acute decompensation and acute‐on‐chronic liver failure in patients with non‐cholestatic cirrhosis
Authors: Horvatits Thomas , Drolz Andreas , Roedl Kevin , Rutter Karoline , Ferlitsch Arnulf , Fauler Günter , Trauner Michael , Fuhrmann Valentin
Published: July 2016

Background & Aims

Retention of bile acids (BAs) plays a central role in hepatic damage and disturbed BA signalling in liver disease. However, there is lack of data regarding the association of BAs with clinical complications, acute decompensation (AD) and acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF). Thus, we aimed to evaluate the impact of circulating serum BAs for complications in patients with cirrhosis.

Methods

One hundred and forty‐three patients with cirrhosis were included in this prospective cohort‐type observational study. Total serum BAs and individual BA composition were assessed in all patients on admission via high‐performance liquid chromatography. Clinical complications with respect to AD, ACLF and 1‐year transplant‐free survival were recorded.

Results

Total BAs and individual serum BAs were significantly higher in patients with bacterial infection, AD and ACLF (P<.001) and correlated significantly with model of end‐stage liver disease (MELD) and hepatic venous pressure gradient (P<.001). Total BAs predicted new onset of AD or ACLF during follow‐up (OR 1.025, 95% CI: 1.012–1.038, P<.001). Best cut‐off predicting new onset of AD/ACLF and survival during course of time was total BAs ≥36.9 μmol/L.

Conclusions

Serum total and individual BAs are associated with AD and ACLF in patients with cirrhosis. Assessment of total BAs could serve as additional marker for risk stratification in cirrhotic patients with respect to new onset of AD and ACLF.
Mixed population genomics support for the central marginal hypothesis across the invasive range of the cane toad (Rhinella marina) in Australia
Authors: Trumbo Daryl R. , Epstein Brendan , Hohenlohe Paul A. , Alford Ross A. , Schwarzkopf Lin , Storfer Andrew
Published: July 2016

Understanding factors that cause species' geographic range limits is a major focus in ecology and evolution. The central marginal hypothesis (CMH) predicts that species cannot adapt to conditions beyond current geographic range edges because genetic diversity decreases from core to edge due to smaller, more isolated edge populations. We employed a population genomics framework using 24 235–33 112SNPloci to test major predictions of theCMHin the ongoing invasion of the cane toad (Rhinella marina) in Australia. Cane toad tissue samples were collected along broad‐scale, core‐to‐edge transects across their invasive range. Geographic and ecological core areas were identified usingGISand habitat suitability indices from ecological niche modelling. Bayesian clustering analyses revealed three genetic clusters, in the northwest invasion‐front region, northeast precipitation‐limited region and southeast cold temperature‐limited region. Core‐to‐edge patterns of genetic diversity and differentiation were consistent with theCMHin the southeast, but were not supported in the northeast and showed mixed support in the northwest. Results suggest cold temperatures are a likely contributor to southeastern range limits, consistent withCMHpredictions. In the northeast and northwest, ecological processes consisting of a steep physiological barrier and ongoing invasion dynamics, respectively, are more likely explanations for population genomic patterns than theCMH.
Illusions of Optimal Motion, Relationism, and Perceptual Content
Authors: Echeverri Santiago
Published: July 2016

Austere relationism rejects the orthodox analysis of hallucinations and illusions as incorrect perceptual representations. In this article, I argue that illusions of optimal motion (IOMs) present a serious challenge for this view. First, I submit that austere‐relationist accounts of misleading experiences cannot be adapted to account for IOMs. Second, I show that any attempt at elucidating IOMs within an austere‐relationist framework undermines the claim that perceptual experiences fundamentally involve relations to mind‐independent objects. Third, I develop a representationalist model of IOMs. The proposed analysis combines two ideas: Evans' dynamic modes of presentation and Fine's relational semantics for identity.
OsPAP10c, a novel secreted acid phosphatase in rice, plays an important role in the utilization of external organic phosphorus
Authors: Lu Linghong , Qiu Wenmin , Gao Wenwen , Tyerman Stephen D. , Shou Huixia , Wang Chuang
Published: July 2016

Under phosphate (Pi) starvation, plants increase the secretion of purple acid phosphatases (PAPs) into the rhizosphere to scavenge organic phosphorus (P) for plant use. To date, only a few members of the PAP family have been characterized in crops. In this study, we identified a novel secreted PAP in rice, OsPAP10c, and investigated its role in the utilization of external organic P. OsPAP10c belongs to a monocotyledon‐specific subclass of Ia group PAPs and is specifically expressed in the epidermis/exodermis cell layers of roots. Both the transcript and protein levels of OsPAP10c are strongly induced by Pi starvation. OsPAP10c overexpression increased acid phosphatase (APase) activity by more than 10‐fold in the culture media and almost fivefold in both roots and leaves under Pi‐sufficient and Pi‐deficient conditions. This increase in APase activity further improved the plant utilization efficiency of external organic P. Moreover, several APase isoforms corresponding to OsPAP10c were identified using in‐gel activity assays. Under field conditions with three different Pi supply levels, OsPAP10c‐overexpressing plants had significantly higher tiller numbers and shorter plant heights. This study indicates that OsPAP10c encodes a novel secreted APase that plays an important role in the utilization of external organic P in rice.
Progression of Idiopathic Eruptive Macular Pigmentation in a Girl from Childhood to Adolescence: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Tsai Wen‐Chien , Lan Jui , Lee Chih‐Hung
Published: July 2016

A 14‐year‐old girl developed brownish round macules and patches over the face, trunk, and proximal limbs with extensive progression since she was 7 years old. Electron microscopy examination revealed an increase in the number and maturity of melanosomes in basal and suprabasal keratinocytes, although the number of melanocytes was within the normal range. A diagnosis of idiopathic eruptive macular pigmentation was made. We describe the unusual disease progression of this case of idiopathic eruptive macular pigmentation, which was thought to be self‐limited.
Dynamic spatiotemporal brain analyses of the visual checkerboard task: Similarities and differences between passive and active viewing conditions
Authors: Cacioppo Stephanie , Weiss Robin M. , Cacioppo John T.
Published: July 2016

We introduce a new analytic technique for the microsegmentation of high‐density EEG to identify the discrete brain microstates evoked by the visual reversal checkerboard task. To test the sensitivity of the present analytic approach to differences in evoked brain microstates across experimental conditions, subjects were instructed to (a) passively view the reversals of the checkerboard (passive viewing condition), or (b) actively search for a target stimulus that may appear at the fixation point, and they were offered a monetary reward if they correctly detected the stimulus (active viewing condition). Results revealed that, within the first 168 ms of a checkerboard presentation, the same four brain microstates were evoked in the passive and active viewing conditions, whereas the brain microstates evoked after 168 ms differed between these two conditions, with more brain microstates elicited in the active than in the passive viewing condition. Additionally, distinctions were found in the active condition between a change in a scalp configuration that reflects a change in microstate and a change in scalp configuration that reflects a change in the level of activation of the same microstate. Finally, the bootstrapping procedure identified that two microstates lacked robustness even though statistical significance thresholds were met, suggesting these microstates should be replicated prior to placing weight on their generalizability across individuals. These results illustrate the utility of the analytic approach and provide new information about the spatiotemporal dynamics of the brain states underlying passive and active viewing in the visual checkerboard task.
Warning Triggers in Environmental Hazards: Who Should Be Warned to Do What and When?
Authors: Cova Thomas J. , Dennison Philip E. , Li Dapeng , Drews Frank A. , Siebeneck Laura K. , Lindell Michael K.
Published: July 2016

Determining the most effective public warnings to issue during a hazardous environmental event is a complex problem. Three primary questions need to be answered: Who should take protective action? What is the best action? and When should this action be initiated? Warning triggers provide a proactive means for emergency managers to simultaneously answer these questions by recommending that a target group take a specified protective action if a preset environmental trigger condition occurs (e.g., warn a community to evacuate if a wildfire crosses a proximal ridgeline). Triggers are used to warn the public across a wide variety of environmental hazards, and an improved understanding of their nature and role promises to: (1) advance protective action theory by unifying the natural, built, and social themes in hazards research into one framework, (2) reveal important information about emergency managers’ risk perception, situational awareness, and threat assessment regarding threat behavior and public response, and (3) advance spatiotemporal models for representing the geography and timing of disaster warning and response (i.e., a coupled natural‐built‐social system). We provide an overview and research agenda designed to advance our understanding and modeling of warning triggers.
Conformity and controversies in the diagnosis, staging and follow‐up evaluation of canine nodal lymphoma: a systematic review of the last 15 years of published literature
Authors: Marconato L. , Polton G. A. , Sabattini S. , Dacasto M. , Garden O. A. , Grant I. , Hendrickx T. , Henriques J. , Lubas G. , Morello E. , Stefanello D. , Comazzi S. ,   on behalf of the European Canine Lymphoma Network
Published: July 2016

Diagnostic methods used in the initial and post‐treatment evaluation of canine lymphoma are heterogeneous and can vary within countries and institutions. Accurate reporting of clinical stage and response assessment is crucial in determining the treatment efficacy and predicting prognosis. This study comprises a systematic review of all available canine multicentric lymphoma studies published over 15 years. Data concerning diagnosis, clinical stage evaluation and response assessment procedures were extracted and compared. Sixty‐three studies met the eligibility criteria. Fifty‐five (87.3%) studies were non‐randomized prospective or retrospective studies. The survey results also expose variations in diagnostic criteria and treatment response assessment in canine multicentric lymphoma. Variations in staging procedures performed and recorded led to an unquantifiable heterogeneity among patients in and between studies, making it difficult to compare treatment efficacies. Awareness of this inconsistency of procedure and reporting may help in the design of future clinical trials.
Corporate Payouts, Macroeconomic Influences and Industry Effects
Authors: LoRe Lauren , Raihan Mahfuz
Published: July 2016

The objective of this study is to examine the dynamic nature of dividends and repurchases by examining the effect of industry group and macroeconomic factors on aggregate payout activity between 1985 and 2011. The article applies new tools that include a random-effect, a fixed-effect, and a Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) model. The results highlight new perspectives and support the need to interpret corporate payout determinants within the context of macroeconomic factors and industry group effects.
On a lifting problem of L-packets
Authors: Xu Bin
Published: July 2016

Let $G\subseteq \widetilde{G}$ be two quasisplit connected reductive groups over a local field of characteristic zero and having the same derived group. Although the existence of L-packets is still conjectural in general, it is believed that the L-packets of $G$ should be the restriction of those of $\widetilde{G}$. Motivated by this, we hope to construct the L-packets of $\widetilde{G}$ from those of $G$. The primary example in our mind is when $G=\text{Sp}(2n)$, whose L-packets have been determined by Arthur [The endoscopic classification of representations: orthogonal and symplectic groups, Colloquium Publications, vol. 61 (American Mathematical Society, Providence, RI, 2013)], and $\widetilde{G}=\text{GSp}(2n)$. As a first step, we need to consider some well-known conjectural properties of L-packets. In this paper, we show how they can be deduced from the conjectural endoscopy theory. As an application, we obtain some structural information about L-packets of $\widetilde{G}$ from those of $G$.
Mechanosensitive ion channel Piezo2 is important for enterochromaffin cell response to mechanical forces
Authors: Wang Fan , Knutson Kaitlyn , Alcaino Constanza , Linden David R. , Gibbons Simon J. , Kashyap Purna , Grover Madhusudan , Oeckler Richard , Gottlieb Philip A. , Li Hui Joyce , Leiter Andrew B. , Farrugia Gianrico , Beyder Arthur
Published: July 2016

Key points

The gastrointestinal epithelial enterochromaffin (EC) cell synthesizes the vast majority of the body's serotonin. As a specialized mechanosensor, the EC cell releases this serotonin in response to mechanical forces. However, the molecular mechanism of EC cell mechanotransduction is unknown.

In the present study, we show, for the first time, that the mechanosensitive ion channel Piezo2 is specifically expressed by the human and mouse EC cells.

Activation of Piezo2 by mechanical forces results in a characteristic ionic current, the release of serotonin and stimulation of gastrointestinal secretion.

Piezo2 inhibition by drugs or molecular knockdown decreases mechanosensitive currents, serotonin release and downstream physiological effects.

The results of the present study suggest that the mechanosensitive ion channel Piezo2 is specifically expressed by the EC cells of the human and mouse small bowel and that it is important for EC cell mechanotransduction.

The enterochromaffin (EC) cell in the gastrointestinal (GI) epithelium is the source of nearly all systemic serotonin (5‐hydroxytryptamine; 5‐HT), which is an important neurotransmitter and endocrine, autocrine and paracrine hormone. The EC cell is a specialized mechanosensor, and it is well known that it releases 5‐HT in response to mechanical forces. However, the EC cell mechanotransduction mechanism is unknown. The present study aimed to determine whether Piezo2 is involved in EC cell mechanosensation. Piezo2 mRNA was expressed in human jejunum and mouse mucosa from all segments of the small bowel. Piezo2 immunoreactivity localized specifically within EC cells of human and mouse small bowel epithelium. The EC cell model released 5‐HT in response to stretch, and had Piezo2 mRNA and protein, as well as a mechanically‐sensitive inward non‐selective cation current characteristic of Piezo2. Both inward currents and 5‐HT release were inhibited by Piezo2 small interfering RNA and antagonists (Gd3+ and D‐GsMTx4). Jejunum mucosal pressure increased 5‐HT release and short‐circuit current via submucosal 5‐HT3 and 5‐HT4 receptors. Pressure‐induced secretion was inhibited by the mechanosensitive ion channel antagonists gadolinium, ruthenium red and D‐GsMTx4. We conclude that the EC cells in the human and mouse small bowel GI epithelium selectively express the mechanosensitive ion channel Piezo2, and also that activation of Piezo2 by force leads to inward currents, 5‐HT release and an increase in mucosal secretion. Therefore, Piezo2 is critical to EC cell mechanosensitivity and downstream physiological effects.
Uniqueness of Neutral Elastic Circular Nano-Inhomogeneities in Antiplane Shear and Plane Deformations
Authors: Dai Ming , Schiavone Peter , Gao Cun-Fa
Published: July 2016

In elasticity theory, a neutral inhomogeneity is defined as a foreign body which can be introduced into a host solid without disturbing the stress field in the solid. The existence of circular neutral elastic nano-inhomogeneities has been established for both antiplane shear and plane deformations when the interface effect is described by constant interface parameters, and the surrounding matrix is subjected to uniform external loading. It is of interest to determine whether noncircular neutral nano-inhomogeneities can be constructed under the same conditions. In fact, we prove that only the circular elastic nano-inhomogeneity can achieve neutrality under these conditions with the radius of the inhomogeneity determined by the corresponding (constant) interface parameters and bulk elastic constants. In particular, in the case of plane deformations, the (uniform) external loading imposed on the matrix must be hydrostatic in order for the corresponding circular nano-inhomogeneity to achieve neutrality. Moreover, we find that, even when we relax the interface condition to allow for a nonuniform interface effect (described by variable interface parameters), in the case of plane deformations, only the elliptical nano-inhomogeneity can achieve neutrality.
Causation Entropy Identifies Sparsity Structure for Parameter Estimation of Dynamic Systems
Authors: Kim Pileun , Rogers Jonathan , Sun Jie , Bollt Erik
Published: July 2016

Parameter estimation is an important topic in the field of system identification. This paper explores the role of a new information theory measure of data dependency in parameter estimation problems. Causation entropy is a recently proposed information-theoretic measure of influence between components of multivariate time series data. Because causation entropy measures the influence of one dataset upon another, it is naturally related to the parameters of a dynamical system. In this paper, it is shown that by numerically estimating causation entropy from the outputs of a dynamic system, it is possible to uncover the internal parametric structure of the system and thus establish the relative magnitude of system parameters. In the simple case of linear systems subject to Gaussian uncertainty, it is first shown that causation entropy can be represented in closed form as the logarithm of a rational function of system parameters. For more general systems, a causation entropy estimator is proposed, which allows causation entropy to be numerically estimated from measurement data. Results are provided for discrete linear and nonlinear systems, thus showing that numerical estimates of causation entropy can be used to identify the dependencies between system states directly from output data. Causation entropy estimates can therefore be used to inform parameter estimation by reducing the size of the parameter set or to generate a more accurate initial guess for subsequent parameter optimization.
Flexible Multibody System Linear Modeling for Control Using Component Modes Synthesis and Double-Port Approach
Authors: Perez Jose Alvaro , Alazard Daniel , Loquen Thomas , Pittet Christelle , Cumer Christelle
Published: July 2016

The main objective of this study is to propose a methodology for building a parametric linear model of flexible multibody systems (FMS) for control design. This new method uses a combined finite element (FE)–state-space approach based on component mode synthesis and a double-port approach. The proposed scheme offers the advantage of an automatic assembly of substructures, preserving the elastic dynamic behavior of the whole system. Substructures are connected following the double-port approach for considering the dynamic coupling among them, i.e., dynamic coupling is expressed through the transfer of accelerations and loads at the connection points. The proposed model allows the evaluation of arbitrary boundary conditions among substructures. In addition, parametric variations can be included in the model for integrated control/structure design purposes. The method can be applied to combinations of chainlike or/and starlike flexible systems, and it has been validated through its comparison with the assumed modes method (AMM) in the case of a rotatory spacecraft and with a nonlinear model of a two-link flexible arm.
Hierarchical MoS
2
tubular structures internally wired by carbon nanotubes as a highly stable anode material for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Chen Yu Ming , Yu Xin Yao , Li Zhen , Paik Ungyu , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: July 2016

Hierarchical MoS
2
tubular structures internally wired by carbon nanotubes manifest superior lithium storage properties.
Liquid biopsy and therapeutic response: Circulating tumor cell cultures for evaluation of anticancer treatment
Authors: Khoo Bee Luan , Grenci Gianluca , Jing Tengyang , Lim Ying Bena , Lee Soo Chin , Thiery Jean Paul , Han Jongyoon , Lim Chwee Teck
Published: July 2016

A patient-derived CTC culture assay for anticancer drug evaluation to guide therapy for personalized treatment.
Chromatin remodeling inactivates activity genes and regulates neural coding
Authors: Yang Yue , Yamada Tomoko , Hill Kelly K. , Hemberg Martin , Reddy Naveen C. , Cho Ha Y. , Guthrie Arden N. , Oldenborg Anna , Heiney Shane A. , Ohmae Shogo , Medina Javier F. , Holy Timothy E. , Bonni Azad
Published: July 2016

Epigenetic regulation in the brain

The activity of neurons in the brain controls the transcription of genes that influence the pruning of dendritic connections between neurons, and such modifications can influence animal behavior. Yang
et al.
propose a role for chromatin remodeling by the nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase complex (NuRD) in the inactivation of such activity-dependent transcription in the mouse cerebellum (see the Perspective by Sweatt). Deposition of the histone variant H2A.z at promoters of activity-dependent genes required the NuRD complex. Loss of the NuRD complex function resulted in hypersensitivity of mice to sensory stimuli and excessive neuronal connectivity in animals performing a task on a treadmill.

Science
, this issue p.
300
; see also p.
218
Comment on “Sensitivity of seafloor bathymetry to climate-driven fluctuations in mid-ocean ridge magma supply”
Authors: Tolstoy Maya
Published: July 2016

Olive
et al
. (Reports, 16 October 2015, p. 310) and Goff (Technical Comment, 4 September 2015, p. 1065) raise important concerns with respect to recent findings of Milankovitch cycles in seafloor bathymetry. However, their results inherently support that the Southern East Pacific Rise is the optimum place to look for such signals and, in fact, models match those observations quite closely.
Gradual caldera collapse at Bárdarbunga volcano, Iceland, regulated by lateral magma outflow
Authors: Gudmundsson Magnús T. , Jónsdóttir Kristín , Hooper Andrew , Holohan Eoghan P. , Halldórsson Sæmundur A. , Ófeigsson Benedikt G. , Cesca Simone , Vogfjörd Kristín S. , Sigmundsson Freysteinn , Högnadóttir Thórdís , Einarsson Páll , Sigmarsson Olgeir , Jarosch Alexander H. , Jónasson Kristján , Magnússon Eyjólfur , Hreinsdóttir Sigrún , Bagnardi Marco , Parks Michelle M. , Hjörleifsdóttir Vala , Pálsson Finnur , Walter Thomas R. , Schöpfer Martin P. J. , Heimann Sebastian , Reynolds Hannah I. , Dumont Stéphanie , Bali Eniko , Gudfinnsson Gudmundur H. , Dahm Torsten , Roberts Matthew J. , Hensch Martin , Belart Joaquín M. C. , Spaans Karsten , Jakobsson Sigurdur , Gudmundsson Gunnar B. , Fridriksdóttir Hildur M. , Drouin Vincent , Dürig Tobias , Aðalgeirsdóttir Guðfinna , Riishuus Morten S. , Pedersen Gro B. M. , van Boeckel Tayo , Oddsson Björn , Pfeffer Melissa A. , Barsotti Sara , Bergsson Baldur , Donovan Amy , Burton Mike R. , Aiuppa Alessandro
Published: July 2016

Driven to collapse

Volcanic eruptions occur frequently, but only rarely are they large enough to cause the top of the mountain to collapse and form a caldera. Gudmundsson
et al.
used a variety of geophysical tools to monitor the caldera formation that accompanied the 2014 Bárdarbunga volcanic eruption in Iceland. The volcanic edifice became unstable as magma from beneath Bárdarbunga spilled out into the nearby Holuhraun lava field. The timing of the gradual collapse revealed that it is the eruption that drives caldera formation and not the other way around.

Science
, this issue p.
262
Necrotising fasciitis after acupuncture treatment in an immunocompetent patient
Authors: Glas Ariene Wypkjen , Jüttner Anna M F M , Kooter Albertus Jozef
Published: July 2016

A 42-year old male with no significant medical history was admitted to our hospital with a painful, red, swollen right arm and fever. The rash and swelling had started in the cubital fossa. 7 days earlier, needles had been placed exactly at that site during an acupuncture treatment. After deterioration of his condition, surgical exploration of the arm revealed necrotising fasciitis. Although acupuncture is a relatively safe intervention, serious complications do occur. Necrotising fasciitis after acupuncture has been described in immunocompromised patients. To the best of our knowledge this is the first immunocompetent patient with necrotising fasciitis and toxic shock, caused by acupuncture.