bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Marginal Cure Rate Proportional Hazards Model for Spatial Survival Data
Authors: Schnell Patrick , Bandyopadhyay Dipankar , Reich Brian J. , Nunn Martha
Published: March 2015

Dental studies often produce spatially referenced multivariate time-to-event data, such as the time until tooth loss due to periodontal disease. These data are used to identify risk factors that are associated with tooth loss, and to predict outcomes for an individual patient. The rate of spatial referencing can vary with various tooth locations. In addition, these event time data are heavily censored, mostly because a certain proportion of teeth in the population are not expected to experience failure and can be considered ‘cured’. We assume a proportional hazards model with a surviving fraction to model these clustered correlated data and account for dependence between nearby teeth by using spatial frailties which are modelled as linear combinations of positive stable random effects. This model permits predictions (conditioned on spatial frailties) that account for the survival status of nearby teeth and simultaneously preserves the proportional hazards relationship marginally over the random effects for the susceptible teeth, allowing for interpretable estimates of the effects of risk factors on tooth loss. We explore the potential of this model via simulation studies and application to a real data set obtained from a private periodontal practice, and we illustrate its advantages over other competing models to identify important risk factors for tooth loss and to predict the remaining lifespan of a patient's teeth.
Collective Identity and Memory: A Comparative Analysis of Community Response to Environmental Hazards
Authors: Messer Chris M. , Shriver Thomas E. , Adams Alison E.
Published: March 2015

Research has explored the ways in which communities respond to local polluting facilities. In some cases, residents mobilize to confront corporate and state polluters, whereas in other cases residents remain quiescent in the wake of documented environmental threats. The variation in community response is often linked to demographic variables, including age, gender, education, and length of residence; yet cultural factors remain largely unexamined. We examine how cultural factors such as community identity and memory mitigate the relationship between community residents and polluting facilities. We present a comparative study of two heavily polluted communities—Blackwell, Oklahoma, and Cañon City, Colorado—that had divergent responses to contamination. The data for these cases come from in‐depth interviews with community residents and various officials (N = 105), content analyses of newspaper coverage and relevant organization documents, and direct observation of meetings and organizing activities. Our findings indicate that cultural factors play a critical role in understanding the relationship between local residents and polluting facilities. We conclude by discussing the implications of our findings for future research on rural communities and environmental contamination.
The geochemistry of carbonate diagenesis: The past, present and future
Authors: Swart Peter K.
Published: March 2015

Stable carbon and oxygen isotopes (δ18O and δ13C values) and trace elements have been applied to the study of diagenesis of carbonate rocks for over 50 years. As valuable as these insights have been, many problems regarding the interpretation of geochemical signals within mature rocks remain. For example, while the δ18O values of carbonate rocks are dependent both upon the temperature and the δ18O value of the fluid, and additional information including trace element composition aids in interpreting such signals, direct evidence of either the temperature or the composition of the fluids is required. Such information can be obtained by analysing the δ18O value of any fluid inclusions or by measuring the temperature using a method such as the ‘clumped’ isotope technique. Such data speak directly to a large number of problems in interpreting the oxygen isotope record including the well‐known tendency for δ18O values of carbonate rocks to decrease with increasing age. Unlike the δ18O, δ13C values of carbonates are considered to be less influenced by diagenesis and more a reflection of primary changes in the global carbon cycle through time. However, many studies have not sufficiently emphasized the effects of diagenesis and other post‐depositional influences on the eventual carbon isotopic composition of the rock with the classic paradigm that the present is the key to the past being frequently ignored. Finally, many additional proxies are poised to contribute to the interpretation of carbonate diagenesis. Although the study of carbonate diagenesis is at an exciting point with an explosion of new proxies and methods, care should be taken to understand both old and new proxies before applying them to the ancient record.
Bank Competition, Economic Growth, and Nonlinearity: A Nonparametric Approach
Authors: Man Georg
Published: March 2015

This article asks empirically the question about potential nonlinearities in the link between bank competition and aggregate economic growth in a cross‐section of countries. I employ nonparametric methods, primarily kernel estimation, and several measures of banking competition. The results suggest that while the data show the presence of relevant nonlinearities, the available evidence provides only limited support for nonmonotonicities such as inverted u‐shapes, and so contrasts with previous findings obtained using parametric methods. This study corroborates the traditional view, according to which more bank competition fosters growth, with presumed implications for policy.
Genetic polymorphism of KIR2DL4 in the Polish population
Authors: Nowak I. , Barcz E. , Majorczyk E. , Malinowski A. , Wilczyński J. R. , Banasik M. , Motak‐Pochrzęst H. , Kuśnierczyk P.
Published: March 2015

The KIR2DL4 gene is characterized by alleles with either 9 or 10 consecutive adenines in exon 7, which encodes the transmembrane domain. The 9A variant produces either a protein with a truncated cytoplasmic tail or one lacking the transmembrane region. This causes a lack of KIR2DL4 expression. In contrast, 10A alleles encode receptors that may be expressed at the cell surface. We tested 438 healthy individuals for polymorphism of the KIR2DL4 gene. KIR2DL4 9A/10A alleles were distinguished by the high resolution melting (HRM) method, and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) was used for genotyping of three other single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) spanning the near vicinity of the poly‐adenine fragment. We found a weak difference between males and females in 9769 C/A genotypes and alleles. In addition, we observed complete linkage disequilibrium (LD) between 9A insertion/deletion in the 9620 position and the 9571T/C position of the gene (r2 = 1) both in females and males and almost complete LD with the 9797G/A position (r2 = 0.963 for females and r2 = 0.892 for males). Most importantly, we detected, in a group of fertile women, a high frequency (30.2%) of homozygosity for the defective 9A variant, which suggests that KIR2DL4 as a functional cell surface receptor is not absolutely necessary for reproduction. On the other hand, lower representation of 10A/10A homozygotes and high frequency of 10A/9A heterozygotes indicates a need for both cell membrane‐anchored and soluble KIR2DL4 molecules. Finally, cost‐reducing RFLP instead of HRM is proposed for typing 9A and 10A variants.
Identification of a novel HLA‐A*24 variant allele, A*24:02:60
Authors: Zheng J. W. , Xie J. H. , Sun Y. , Jiang Y. Q. , Xiang D.
Published: March 2015

HLA‐A*24:02:60 allele differs from A*24:02:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution at nt 564 from C to T.
Spatial Supermarket Redlining and Neighborhood Vulnerability: A Case Study of Hartford, Connecticut
Authors: Zhang Mengyao , Ghosh Debarchana
Published: March 2015

The disinclination of chain supermarkets to locate or relocate existing stores from inner city impoverished neighborhoods to affluent suburbs is termed ‘spatial supermarket redlining’. This study attempts to map and understand the effects of potential spatial supermarket redlining on food access in urban disadvantaged neighborhoods of Hartford, Connecticut. Using a combination of statistical and spatial analysis, we first built a Supermarket Redlining Index (SuRI) from five indicators (sales volume, employee count, accepts food coupons from federally assisted programs, and size and population density of the service area) to rank supermarkets in the order of their importance. Second, to understand the effects of supermarket closures in the inner city, a Supermarket Redlining Impact Model (SuRIM) was built with 11 indicators describing both socioeconomic and food access vulnerabilities. The interaction of these vulnerabilities identified neighborhoods that are maximally impacted by spatial supermarket redlining. Results mapped critical areas in the inner city of Hartford where, if a nearby supermarket closed down or relocated to a suburb with limited mitigation efforts to fill the grocery gap, a large number of minority, poor, and disadvantaged residents would experience difficulties to access healthy food, leading to food insecurity or perhaps a food desert. In conclusion we suggest mitigation efforts to reduce this impact of large supermarket closures.
Stringent adherence to a cytomegalovirus‐prevention protocol is associated with reduced overall costs in the first 6 months after kidney transplantation
Authors: Matter‐Walstra K.W. , Greiner M. , Cusini A. , Schiesser M. , Ledergerber B. , Fehr T. , Mueller N.J.
Published: March 2015

Background

We previously documented that a stringent implementation of a preemptive cytomegalovirus (CMV) prevention protocol reduced the number of CMV disease episodes after kidney transplantation, when compared with a routine preemptive protocol. The impact on overall costs was assessed.

Methods

Cost comparisons were made for inpatient and outpatient costs and overall costs, using costs provided by the financial department. Variables were analyzed using the Wilcoxon rank‐sum test. A multivariable global linear model evaluated the effect of all co‐variables on cost differences. In Cohort 1 (n = 84), 74% were followed with a standard CMV preemptive protocol, and 26% received prophylaxis. In Cohort 2 (n = 74), an intensified CMV surveillance protocol was applied in 74% of patients, and 26% were given prophylaxis.

Results

Overall, Cohort 1 had significantly higher treatment costs as compared with Cohort 2 (mean Swiss francs [CHF] 104,548 and CHF 76,983, respectively, P = 0.0005). Excluding patients who received prophylaxis reduced these costs to CHF 89,318 in Cohort 1 and CHF 73,652 in Cohort 2. Outcome between Cohort 1 and 2 was comparable.

Conclusion

A stringent adherence to the CMV prevention protocol was associated with a significant reduction in overall costs. Whether this benefit is because of the demonstrated reduction in the rate of CMV disease needs to be assessed in a randomized trial.
Treatment of venous leg ulcers with ultrasound‐guided foam sclerotherapy: Healing, long‐term recurrence and quality of life evaluation
Authors: Lloret Pedro , Redondo Pedro , Cabrera Juan , Sierra Alejandro
Published: March 2015

Venous leg ulcers (VLU) generally have slow healing rates (HR) and frequent recurrence rates (RR). The underlying etiology is venous hypertension. The present observational cohort study was to determine healing and RR in VLU treated with ultrasound‐guided foam sclerotherapy (UGFS). One hundred and eighty VLU were treated with polidocanol microfoam monthly under ultrasound control. Median follow‐up was 30 months (range: 17–40). One hundred seventy‐two (95.6%) ulcers healed during the study. The overall twenty‐four week HR was 79.4% and was significantly higher (95.1%) in patients with isolated great saphenous vein incompetence than in those with great saphenous vein plus perforator (91.7%) or exclusive perforator incompetence (78.9%) (p < 0.01). Patients without deep vein incompetence had a significantly higher 6‐month HR (89.8%) than those with (67.4%) (p < 0.01). Multivariate analysis identified the following independent risk factors: chronicity > 12 months (OR 7.69), area > 6 cm2 (OR 4.24), lipodermatoesclerosis (OR 12.22), history of > 3 previous ulcers (OR 5.57) and history of deep vein thrombosis (OR 6.18). One, two and three year ulcer RR were 8.1%, 14.9%, and 20.8%, respectively. Isolated perforator incompetence and previous history of venous surgery were significantly (p = 0.03) associated with a higher RR. VLU treated with microfoam sclerotherapy are associated with high HR and low mid‐term RR.
Cutaneous wound healing in aging small mammals: a systematic review
Authors: Kim Dong Joo , Mustoe Thomas , Clark Richard AF
Published: March 2015

As the elderly population grows, so do the clinical and socioeconomic burdens of nonhealing cutaneous wounds, the majority of which are seen among persons over 60 years of age. Human studies on how aging effects wound healing will always be the gold standard, but studies have ethical and practical hurdles. Choosing an animal model is dictated by costs and animal lifespan that preclude large animal use. Here, we review the current literature on how aging effects cutaneous wound healing in small animal models and, when possible, compare healing across studies. Using a literature search of MEDLINE/PubMed databases, studies were limited to those that utilized full‐thickness wounds and compared the wound‐healing parameters of wound closure, reepithelialization, granulation tissue fill, and tensile strength between young and aged cohorts. Overall, wound closure, reepithelialization, and granulation tissue fill were delayed or decreased with aging across different strains of mice and rats. Aging in mice was associated with lower tensile strength early in the wound healing process, but greater tensile strength later in the wound healing process. Similarly, aging in rats was associated with lower tensile strength early in the wound healing process, but no significant tensile strength difference between young and old rats later in healing wounds. From studies in New Zealand White rabbits, we found that reepithelialization and granulation tissue fill were delayed or decreased overall with aging. While similarities and differences in key wound healing parameters were noted between different strains and species, the comparability across the studies was highly questionable, highlighted by wide variability in experimental design and reporting. In future studies, standardized experimental design and reporting would help to establish comparable study groups, and advance the overall knowledge base, facilitating the translatability of animal data to the human clinical condition.
Do nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase contribute to the heat loss responses in older males exercising in the heat?
Authors: Fujii Naoto , Paull Gabrielle , Meade Robert D. , McGinn Ryan , Stapleton Jill M. , Akbari Pegah , Kenny Glen P.
Published: March 2015

Key points

Studies show that nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX) are involved in sweating and cutaneous vascular regulation in young adults in a potentially interactive manner.

We evaluated the separate and interactive roles of NOS and COX in forearm sweating and cutaneous vasodilatation in older adults during intermittent exercise in the heat performed at a moderate fixed rate of metabolic heat production (400 W, ∼48% ).

We demonstrated that neither NOS nor COX are functionally involved in the forearm sweating response in older adults during exercise, whereas only NOS contributed to cutaneous vasodilatation.

These results provide valuable insight into the age‐related changes in heat loss and suggest that COX inhibitors (i.e. non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs) may not impair core body temperature regulation during exercise in the heat in older adults.

This study evaluated the separate and combined roles of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX) in forearm sweating and cutaneous vasodilatation in older adults during intermittent exercise in the heat. Twelve healthy older (62 ± 7 years) males peformed two 30 min cycling bouts at a fixed rate of metabolic heat production (400 W) in the heat (35°C, 20% relative humidity). The exercise bouts were followed by 20 and 40 min of recovery, respectively. Forearm sweat rate (ventilated capsule) and cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC, laser Doppler perfusion units/mean arterial pressure) were evaluated at four skin sites that were continuously perfused via intradermal microdialysis with: (1) lactated Ringer solution (Control), (2) 10 mm ketorolac (non‐selective COX inhibitor), (3) 10 mm NG‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester (l‐NAME; non‐selective NOS inhibitor) or (4) a combination of 10 mm ketorolac + 10 mm l‐NAME. Sweating was not different between the four sites during either exercise bout (main effect P = 0.92) (average of last 5 min of second exercise, Control, 0.80 ± 0.06; ketorolac, 0.77 ± 0.09; l‐NAME, 0.74 ± 0.07; ketorolac + l‐NAME, 0.77 ± 0.09 mg min−1 cm−2). During both exercise bouts, relative to CVC evaluated at the Control site (average of last 5 min of second exercise, 69 ± 6%max), CVC was similar at the ketorolac site (P = 0.62; 66 ± 4%max) whereas it was attenuated to a similar extent at both the l‐NAME (49 ± 8%max) and ketorolac + l‐NAME (54 ± 8%max) sites (both P < 0.05). Thus, we demonstrate that NOS and COX are not functionally involved in forearm sweating whereas only NOS contributes to forearm cutaneous vasodilatation in older adults during intermittent exercise in the heat.
Poro-Elasto-Plastic Model for the Wave-Induced Liquefaction1
Authors: Liao C. C. , Zhao H. , Jeng D.-S.
Published: March 2015

In this paper, we presented an integrated numerical model for the wave-induced pore pressures in marine sediments. Two mechanisms of the wave-induced pore pressures were considered. Both elastic components (for oscillatory) and the plastic components (for residual) were integrated to predict the wave-induced excess pore pressures and liquefaction in marine sediments. The proposed two-dimensional (2D) poro-elasto-plastic model can simulate the phenomenon of the pore pressure buildup and dissipation process in a sandy seabed. The proposed model overall agreed well with the previous wave experiments and geo-centrifuge tests. Based on the parametric study, first, we examined the effects of soil and wave characteristics on the pore pressure accumulations and residual liquefaction. Then, a set of analysis on liquefaction potential was presented to show the development of liquefaction zone. Numerical example shows that the pattern of progressive waves-induced liquefaction gradually changes from 2D to one-dimensional (1D), while the standing wave-induced liquefaction stays in a 2D pattern in the whole process.
Calibration and Validation of a Mechanistic Micromilling Force Prediction Model
Authors: Annoni Massimiliano , Pusterla Nicola , Rebaioli Lara , Semeraro Quirico
Published: March 2015

Mechanistic force prediction models require a calibration phase to determine the cutting coefficients describing the tool–target material interaction. The model prediction performance depends on the experimental correctness and representativeness of input data, especially in micromilling, where facing process uncertainties is a big challenge. The present paper focuses on input data correctness introducing a clear and repeatable calibration experimental procedure based on accurate force data acquisitions. Input data representativeness has been directly connected to the calibration window choice, i.e., the selection of the space of process parameters combinations used to calibrate the model. Also, the model validation has to be carefully carried out to make the model significant: the present paper proposes a clear and repeatable validation procedure based on the model performance index calculation over the whole process operating window, i.e., the space of parameters where the process works correctly. An objective indication of the model suitability can be obtained by applying this procedure. Comparisons among prediction performances produced by different calibration windows are allowed. This paper demonstrates how the calibration window selection determines the model prediction performance, which seems to improve if calibration is carried out where forces assume high values. Some important considerations on the process parameters role on cutting forces and on the model capability have also been drawn from the model validation results.
Synthetic Jet Actuator Cavity Acoustics: Helmholtz Versus Quarter-Wave Resonance
Authors: Van Buren Tyler , Whalen Edward , Amitay Michael
Published: March 2015

The impact of cavity geometry on the source of acoustic resonance (Helmholtz or quarter-wave) for synthetic jet type cavities is presented. The cavity resonance was measured through externally excited microphone measurements. It was found that, for pancake-shaped cavities, the Helmholtz resonance equation was inadequate (off by more than 130%) at predicting the acoustic cavity resonances associated with synthetic jet actuation, whereas a two-dimensional quarter-wave resonance was accurate to 15%. The changes in the geometry (cavity diameter, cavity height, and orifice length) could alter the cavity resonance by up to 50%, and a finite element solver was accurate at predicting this resonance in all cases. With better knowledge of the phenomena governing the acoustic resonance, prediction of the cavity resonance can become more accurate and improvements to current prediction tools can be made.
Indirect Involvement of Amorphous Carbon Layer on Convective Heat Transfer Enhancement Using Carbon Nanofibers
Authors: Taha T. J. , Lefferts L. , van der Meer T. H.
Published: March 2015

In this work, an experimental heat transfer investigation was carried out to investigate the combined influence of both amorphous carbon (a-C) layer thickness and carbon nanofibers (CNFs) on the convective heat transfer behavior. Synthesis of these carbon nanostructures was achieved using catalytic chemical vapor deposition process on a 50 μm nickel wire at 650 °C. Due to their extremely high thermal conductivity, CNFs are used to augment/modify heat transfer surface. However, the inevitable layer of a-C that occurs during the synthesis of the CNFs layer exhibits low thermal conductivity which may result in insulating the surface. In contrast, the amorphous layer helps in supporting and mechanically stabilizing the CNFs layer attachment to the polycrystalline nickel (Ni270) substrate material. To better understand the influences of these two layers on heat transfer, the growth mechanism of the CNFs layer and the layer of carbon is investigated and growth model is proposed. The combined impact of both a-C and CNFs layers on heat transfer performance is studied on three different samples which were synthesized by varying the deposition period (16 min, 23 min, and 30 min). The microwire samples covered with CNF layers were subjected to a uniform flow from a nozzle. Heat transfer measurement was achieved by a controlled heat dissipation through the microwire to attain a constant temperature during the flow. This measurement technique is adopted from hot wire anemometry calibration method. Maximum heat transfer enhancement of 18% was achieved. This enhancement is mainly attributed to the surface roughness and surface area increase of the samples with moderate CNFs surface area coverage on the sample.
Validation of an in‐vivo proton beam range check method in an anthropomorphic pelvic phantom using dose measurements
Authors: Bentefour El H. , Tang Shikui , Cascio Ethan W. , Testa Mauro , Samuel Deepak , Prieels Damien , Gottschalk Bernard , Lu Hsiao‐Ming
Published: March 2015

Purpose:

In‐vivo dosimetry and beam range verification in proton therapy could play significant role in proton treatment validation and improvements. In‐vivo beam range verification, in particular, could enable new treatment techniques one of which could be the use of anterior fields for prostate treatment instead of opposed lateral fields as in current practice. This paper reports validation study of an in‐vivo range verification method which can reduce the range uncertainty to submillimeter levels and potentially allow for in‐vivo dosimetry.

Methods:

An anthropomorphic pelvic phantom is used to validate the clinical potential of the time‐resolved dose method for range verification in the case of prostrate treatment using range modulated anterior proton beams. The method uses a 3 × 4 matrix of 1 mm diodes mounted in water balloon which are read by an ADC system at 100 kHz. The method is first validated against beam range measurements by dose extinction measurements. The validation is first completed in water phantom and then in pelvic phantom for both open field and treatment field configurations. Later, the beam range results are compared with the water equivalent path length (WEPL) values computed from the treatment planning system XIO.

Results:

Beam range measurements from both time‐resolved dose method and the dose extinction method agree with submillimeter precision in water phantom. For the pelvic phantom, when discarding two of the diodes that show sign of significant range mixing, the two methods agree with ±1 mm. Only a dose of 7 mGy is sufficient to achieve this result. The comparison to the computed WEPL by the treatment planning system (XIO) shows that XIO underestimates the protons beam range. Quantifying the exact XIO range underestimation depends on the strategy used to evaluate the WEPL results. To our best evaluation, XIO underestimates the treatment beam range between a minimum of 1.7% and maximum of 4.1%.

Conclusions:

Time‐resolved dose measurement method satisfies the two basic requirements, WEPL accuracy and minimum dose, necessary for clinical use, thus, its potential for in‐vivo protons range verification. Further development is needed, namely, devising a workflow that takes into account the limits imposed by proton range mixing and the susceptibility of the comparison of measured and expected WEPLs to errors on the detector positions. The methods may also be used for in‐vivo dosimetry and could benefit various proton therapy treatments.
Acute Sodium Ingestion Before Exercise Increases Voluntary Water Consumption Resulting in Preexercise Hyperhydration and Improvement in Exercise Performance in the Heat
Authors: Morris David M. , Huot Joshua R. , Jetton Adam M. , Collier Scott R. , Utter Alan C.
Published: March 2015

Dehydration has been shown to hinder performance of sustained exercise in the heat. Consuming fluids before exercise can result in hyperhydration, delay the onset of dehydration during exercise and improve exercise performance. However, humans normally drink only in response to thirst, which does not result in hyperhydration. Thirst and voluntary fluid consumption have been shown to increase following oral ingestion or infusion of sodium into the bloodstream. We measured the effects of acute sodium ingestion on voluntary water consumption and retention during a 2-hr hydration period before exercise. Subjects then performed a 60-min submaximal dehydration ride (DR) followed immediately by a 200 kJ performance time trial (PTT) in a warm (30 °C) environment. Water consumption and retention during the hydration period was greater following sodium ingestion (1380 ± 580 mL consumed, 821 ± 367 ml retained) compared with placebo (815 ± 483 ml consumed, 244 ± 402 mL retained) and no treatment (782 ± 454 ml consumed, 148 ± 289 mL retained). Dehydration levels following the DR were significantly less after sodium ingestion (0.7 ± 0.6%) compared with placebo (1.3 ± 0.7%) and no treatment (1.6 ± 0.4%). Time to complete the PTT was significantly less following sodium consumption (773 ± 158 s) compared with placebo (851 ± 156 s) and no treatment (872 ± 190 s). These results suggest that voluntary hyperhydration can be induced by acute consumption of sodium and has a favorable effect on hydration status and performance during subsequent exercise in the heat.
The Effect of Cognitive-Task Type and Walking Speed on Dual-Task Gait in Healthy Adults
Authors: Wrightson James G. , Ross Emma Z. , Smeeton Nicholas J.
Published: March 2015

In a number of studies in which a dual-task gait paradigm was used, researchers reported a relationship between cognitive function and gait. However, it is not clear to what extent these effects are dependent on the type of cognitive and walking tasks used in the dual-task paradigm. This study examined whether stride-time variability (STV) and trunk range of motion (RoM) are affected by the type of cognitive task and walking speed used during dual-task gait. Participants walked at both their preferred walking speed and at 25% of their preferred walking speed and performed a serial subtraction and a working memory task at both speeds. Although both tasks significantly reduced STV at both walking speeds, there was no difference between the two tasks. Trunk RoM was affected by the walking speed and type of cognitive task used during dual-task gait: Mediolateral trunk RoM was increased at the slow walking speed, and anterior-posterior trunk RoM was higher only when performing the serial subtraction task at the slow walking speed. The reduction of STV, regardless of cognitive-task type, suggests that healthy adults may redirect cognitive processes away from gait toward cognitive-task performance during dual-task gait.
Crystallization in Ising quantum magnets
Authors: Schauß P. , Zeiher J. , Fukuhara T. , Hild S. , Cheneau M. , Macrì T. , Pohl T. , Bloch I. , Gross C.
Published: March 2015

Atoms behaving in an orderly manner

In physics, interactions between components of a system can cause it to become more orderly in an attempt to minimize energy. Such ordered phases appear, for example, in magnetic systems. Schauss
et al
. simulated these phenomena using a collection of neutral atoms at low temperatures. By shining laser light on the atoms, the authors brought some of them into a high energy state called the Rydberg state. By carefully varying the experimental parameters, they coaxed these Rydberg atoms into patterns reminiscent of crystal lattices in rod- and disk-shaped atomic samples.

Science
, this issue p.
1455
Do biofuel policies seek to cut emissions by cutting food?
Authors: Searchinger T. , Edwards R. , Mulligan D. , Heimlich R. , Plevin R.
Published: March 2015

Major models should make trade-offs more transparent
Reform of toxics law is contentious
Authors: Kollipara Puneet
Published: March 2015

Plan to rewrite 1976 law draws bipartisan support but harsh criticism.
A €1 billion brain reboot
Authors: Enserink Martin
Published: March 2015

Critics of Europe's Human Brain Project are vindicated.
A reassuring snapshot of Ebola
Authors: Vogel Gretchen
Published: March 2015

Virus sequences from Mali suggest pathogen has not changed enough to elude potential vaccines or treatments.
Cancer immunology: Charting the course forward for immunoprofiling
Authors: Fox Bernard A. , Hoyt Clifford
Published: March 2015

How cells behave in the body depends on numerous factors. Interactions with other cells, through direct contact or via various dissolved factors, are especially important. These interactions not only enable cell survival, but also influence fundamental cellular properties and behaviors. Cancer cells, although aberrant in many respects, are still influenced by their cellular milieu. In fact, associations of cancer cells with the normal peritumoral microenvironment can profoundly impact tumor growth and development. New technologies are coming to the fore that allow interrogation of the types of cells interacting with tumors, in particular providing intelligence on the broad variety of complex associations between tumor cells and the immune system. The depth and breadth of information obtained is promoting biomarker discovery, especially potential targets for drug therapies, as well as possibly enabling improved patient stratification for clinical trials and treatment protocols. Understanding how to obtain this data and how best to use it is critical for future advances in research and cancer treatment.

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Life-threatening influenza and impaired interferon amplification in human IRF7 deficiency
Authors: Ciancanelli Michael J. , Huang Sarah X. L. , Luthra Priya , Garner Hannah , Itan Yuval , Volpi Stefano , Lafaille Fabien G. , Trouillet Céline , Schmolke Mirco , Albrecht Randy A. , Israelsson Elisabeth , Lim Hye Kyung , Casadio Melina , Hermesh Tamar , Lorenzo Lazaro , Leung Lawrence W. , Pedergnana Vincent , Boisson Bertrand , Okada Satoshi , Picard Capucine , Ringuier Benedicte , Troussier Françoise , Chaussabel Damien , Abel Laurent , Pellier Isabelle , Notarangelo Luigi D. , García-Sastre Adolfo , Basler Christopher F. , Geissmann Frédéric , Zhang Shen-Ying , Snoeck Hans-Willem , Casanova Jean-Laurent
Published: March 2015

A genetic cause for severe influenza

Although chicken soup and plenty of rest get most kids through an influenza virus infection, some require hospitalization. Ciancanelli
et al.
report on one child who suffered severely from influenza because of null mutations in the gene for transcription factor IRF7. Cells isolated from this patient could not make enough secreted antiviral proteins, called interferons, to halt viral replication. The requirement for IRF7 seems quite specific, because this patient recovers normally from other common childhood viral infections.

Science
, this issue p. 448
Ivan Pavlov, revealed
Ivan Pavlov: A Russian Life in Science
Daniel P. Todes
Oxford University Press, 2014. 891 pp.
Authors: Casper Stephen T.
Published: March 2015

The life and times of Russia's famous physiologist
Sorting out light
Authors: Miller David A. B.
Published: March 2015

Controlled interference can separate overlapping light beams for device functionality
Genome Sequence of Phytophthora fragariae var. fragariae, a Quarantine Plant-Pathogenic Fungus
Authors: Gao Ruifang , Cheng Yinghui , Wang Ying , Wang Ying , Guo Liyun , Zhang Guiming
Published: March 2015

Phytophthora
fragariae var. fragariae is a serious plant-pathogenic fungus causing red core disease in strawberries, resulting in a larger number of fruit produced, and the fungus has been regulated as a quarantine pest of many countries and regions. Here, we announce the genome sequence of P. fragariae var. fragariae, and this information might provide insight into the mechanism of pathogenicity and host specificity of this pathogen, as well as help us further identify targets for fungicides.
Draft Genome Sequence of Lysinibacillus sp. Strain A1, Isolated from Malaysian Tropical Soil
Authors: Chan Kok-Gan , Chen Jian Woon , Chang Chien-Yi , Yin Wai-Fong , Chan Xin-Yue
Published: March 2015

In this work, we describe the genome of Lysinibacillus sp. strain A1, which was isolated from tropical soil. Analysis of its genome sequence shows the presence of a gene encoding for a putative peptidase responsible for nitrogen compounds.
Whole-Genome Sequencing of a
Pandoravirus
Isolated from Keratitis-Inducing
Acanthamoeba
Authors: Antwerpen M. H. , Georgi E. , Zoeller L. , Woelfel R. , Stoecker K. , Scheid P.
Published: March 2015

Following the recent discovery of two
Pandoravirus
species in 2013, a previously described endocytobiont isolated from the inflamed eye of a patient with keratitis was subjected to whole-genome sequencing (WGS). Here, we present the complete genome sequence of a new
Pandoravirus
isolate.
Complete Genomic Sequence of Rabies Virus from an Ethiopian Wolf
Authors: Marston Denise A. , Wise Emma L. , Ellis Richard J. , McElhinney Lorraine M. , Banyard Ashley C. , Johnson Nicholas , Deressa Asefa , Regassa Fekede , de Lamballerie Xavier , Fooks Anthony R. , Sillero-Zubiri Claudio
Published: March 2015

Ethiopian wolves are the rarest canid in the world, with only 500 found in the Ethiopian highlands. Rabies poses the most immediate threat to their survival, causing epizootic cycles of mass mortality. The complete genome sequence of a rabies virus (RABV) derived from an Ethiopian wolf during the most recent epizootic is reported here.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Chikungunya Virus Imported from Bali to Germany
Authors: Wölfel Silke , Vollmar Patrick , Poluda David , Zange Sabine , Antwerpen Markus H. , Löscher Thomas , Dobler Gerhard
Published: March 2015

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) strain DH130003 was isolated from a traveler with Chikungunya fever returning from Bali to Germany. Although strains of the east-central/south African lineage bearing the A226V mutation have predominated in most parts of Asia since 2005, CHIKV DH130003 belongs to the Asian lineage.
Genome Sequence of Vibrio campbellii Strain UMTGB204, a Marine Bacterium Isolated from a Green Barrel Tunicate
Authors: Gan Huan You , Noor Mohd Ezhar Mohd , Saari Nur Azna , Musa Najiah , Mustapha Baharim , Usup Gires , Danish-Daniel Muhd
Published: March 2015

Vibrio campbellii
strain UMTGB204 was isolated from a green barrel tunicate. The genome of this strain comprises 5,652,224 bp with 5,014 open reading frames, 9 rRNAs, and 116 tRNAs. It contains genes related to virulence and environmental tolerance. Gene clusters for the biosynthesis of nonribosomal peptides and bacteriocin were also identified.
Draft Genome of the Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Strain A155 Clinical Isolate
Authors: Arivett Brock A. , Fiester Steven E. , Ream David C. , Centrón Daniela , Ramírez Maria S. , Tolmasky Marcelo E. , Actis Luis A.
Published: March 2015

Acinetobacter baumannii
is a bacterial pathogen with serious implications on human health, due to increasing reports of multidrug-resistant strains isolated from patients. Total DNA from the multidrug-resistant
A. baumannii
strain A155 clinical isolate was sequenced to greater than 65× coverage, providing high-quality contig assemblies.
Draft Genome Sequences of Pseudomonas fluorescens Strains SF39a and SF4c, Potential Plant Growth Promotion and Biocontrol Agents
Authors: Ly Lindsey K. , Underwood Grace E. , McCully Lucy M. , Bitzer Adam S. , Godino Agustina , Bucci Vanni , Brigham Christopher J. , Príncipe Analía , Fischer Sonia E. , Silby Mark W.
Published: March 2015

Pseudomonas fluorescens
SF4c and SF39a, strains isolated from wheat rhizosphere, have potential applications in plant growth promotion and biocontrol of fungal diseases of crop plants. We report the draft genome sequences of SF4c and SF39a with estimated sizes of 6.5 Mb and 5.9 Mb, respectively.
Complete Genome Sequence of Feline Panleukopenia Virus Strain HRB-CS1, Isolated from a Domestic Cat in Northeastern China
Authors: Liu Chunguo , Liu Yongxiang , Liu Dafei , Qiu Zheng , Tian Jin , Guo Dongchun , Li Zhijie , Liu Ming , Li Yijing , Qu Liandong
Published: March 2015

Here, we report the complete genome sequence of feline panleukopenia virus (FPLV) strain HRB-CS1, isolated from a dead domestic cat showing enteric symptoms in China in 2014. The genome of HRB-CS1 was sequenced and analyzed, which will help to understand the genetic characteristics and evolution of FPLV in China.
A restless abdomen and propriospinal myoclonus like at sleep onset: an unusual overlap syndrome
Authors: Baiardi Simone , La Morgia Chiara , Mondini Susanna , Cirignotta Fabio
Published: March 2015

We report for the first time the association between restless abdomen, a phenotypic variant of restless legs syndrome in which symptoms are limited to the abdomen, and propriospinal myoclonus at sleep onset causing severe insomnia. The treatment with a low-dosage of dopaminergic drug (pramipexole) induced the immediate disappearance of both symptoms, which was documented by video-polysomnography.
Juvenile polymyositis with unremitting pain and progressive loss of motor and bulbar function on a background of sickle cell disease
Authors: Bali Shreya , D'Cruz David , Lazaro Marion , Inusa Baba P D
Published: March 2015

The diagnosis of acute autoimmune rheumatic disorders in sickle cell disease (SCD) can be challenging. Polymyositis is an inflammatory myopathy which, like SCD, may present with myalgia but is usually associated with proximal muscle weakness. We describe an adolescent boy presenting with limb pain, difficulty in mobilisation, with progressive loss of motor function and later bulbar weakness. Investigations showed massive elevation of creatine kinase, and MRI and muscle biopsy findings consistent with severe polymyositis. The patient was treated with corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin and intensive rehabilitation therapy. He made a good recovery and was discharged on azathioprine and prednisolone. In the context of SCD, multisystem symptoms, unexplained muscle pain and weakness, unresponsive to conventional treatment in the presence of steady state haemoglobin, should alert the clinician to autoimmune phenomena. Key factors in making a diagnosis are an autoimmune screen and early discussion with a rheumatology expert.
Acute appendicitis in a child with swine influenza (H1N1)
Authors: Plataras Christos , Tsangouri Sotiria , Bourikas Dimitrios , Christianakis Efstratios
Published: March 2015

Swine flu is a multisystemic disease and can affect the gastrointestinal system. There are only three published reports of swine flu cases with acute appendicitis; two of them in children under 16 years of age. We present an unusual case of acute appendicitis in a child already diagnosed with swine flu infection. A 9½-year-old girl presented with febrile illness and mild abdominal pain. PCR (+) was positive for H1N1. 3 days after hospital admission she developed acute appendicitis and was operated on. On the fourth postoperative day she developed right upper lobe atelectasis; she was started on antiviral treatment to which she responded very well. She was discharged on day 7 without further consequences in her postoperative course. Children with swine flu may be susceptible to rapidly deteriorating and complicated acute appendicitis. This calls for more caution especially in periods of epidemics.
An unusual cause of abdominal pain in an HIV-positive man
Authors: Saing Chit , Yoganathan Kathir G
Published: March 2015

We report a case of an HIV-positive man on antiretroviral therapy (ART) who developed abdominal pain due to acute-on-chronic intestinal ischaemia secondary to superior mesenteric vein thrombosis (SMVT) requiring emergency surgery. He was found to have persistently low levels of protein C on thrombophilia screening. To the best of our knowledge, the association linking SMVT to protein C deficiency in an HIV-infected patient has never been reported in the literature.
Strongyloidiasis: an unusual cause of septic shock with pneumonia and enteropathy in western countries
Authors: Montini Florent , Grenouillet Frederic , Capellier Gilles , Piton Gaël
Published: March 2015

We report a case of invasive strongyloidiasis in a patient from the French Antilles who had been living in France for many years, with no history of immunosuppression, and who was hospitalised in the intensive care unit for septic shock with multimicrobial hypoxaemia pneumonia and exudative enteropathy. Initiation of systemic corticosteroid therapy for septic shock seems to have precipitated onset of the parasitic infection, with recurrence of hypoxaemic pneumonia complicated by hypoxic cardiac arrest. The diagnosis was confirmed after roundworm larvae were found on bronchoalveolar lavage. Treatment with ivermectin was initiated, but the patient died in a context of postanoxic encephalopathy.
Workplace violence against nurses in Chinese hospitals: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Jiao Mingli , Ning Ning , Li Ye , Gao Lijun , Cui Yu , Sun Hong , Kang Zheng , Liang Libo , Wu Qunhong , Hao Yanhua
Published: March 2015

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of workplace violence that Chinese nurses have encountered, identify risk factors and provide a basis for future targeted interventions.

Setting

Heilongjiang, a province in northeast China.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey.

Participants

A total of 588 nurses provided data. There were also in-depth interviews with 12 nurses, 7 hospital administrators and 6 health officials.

Results

A total of 7.8% of the nurses reported physically violent experiences and 71.9% reported non-physically violent experiences in the preceding year. Perpetrators were patients or their relatives (93.5% and 82%, respectively), and 24% of nurses experienced non-physical violence that involved Yi Nao (gangs specifically targeting hospitals). Inexperienced nurses were more likely to report physical (13.2%) or non-physical (89.5%) violence compared with experienced nurses. Graduate-level nurses were more likely to perceive and report non-physical violence (84.6%). Nurses who worked rotating shifts were 3.668 times (95% CI 1.275 to 10.554) more likely to experience physical violence, and 1.771 times (95% CI 1.123 to 2.792) more likely to experience non-physical violence compared with nurses who worked fixed day shifts. Higher anxiety levels about workplace violence and work types were associated with violence. Interviewees perceived financial burdens, unsatisfactory treatment outcomes and miscommunications as influencing factors for workplace violence.

Conclusions

Preplacement education should focus on high-risk groups to reduce workplace violence. Increased awareness from the public and policymakers is necessary to develop effective control strategies at individual, hospital and national levels.
Cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Cosgrove Jeremy , Alty Jane Elizabeth , Jamieson Stuart
Published: March 2015

Cognitive impairment is a significant non-motor symptom of Parkinson's disease (PD). Longitudinal cohort studies have demonstrated that approximately 50% of those with PD develop dementia after 10 years, increasing to over 80% after 20 years. Deficits in cognition can be identified at the time of PD diagnosis in some patients and this mild cognitive impairment (PD-MCI) has been studied extensively over the last decade. Although PD-MCI is a risk factor for developing Parkinson's disease dementia there is evidence to suggest that PD-MCI might consist of distinct subtypes with different pathophysiologies and prognoses. The major pathological correlate of Parkinson's disease dementia is Lewy body deposition in the limbic system and neocortex although Alzheimer's related pathology is also an important contributor. Pathological damage causes alteration to neurotransmitter systems within the brain, producing behavioural change. Management of cognitive impairment in PD requires a multidisciplinary approach and accurate communication with patients and relatives is essential.
Diary of a parliamentary intern
Authors: Jordan Hannah
Published: March 2015

Hannah Jordan, parliamentary intern to Lord Trees, discusses business in Parliament before the House rises for the general election.