bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictability of plankton communities in an unpredictable world
Authors: LÜRLING MIQUEL , DE SENERPONT DOMIS LISETTE N.
Published: January 2013

1. Plankton ecology contributes significantly to ecological theory building, because plankton organisms are relatively easy to manipulate and have short generation times and a relatively small set of traits making them an ideal experimental model system for addressing both general ecological questions as well more system‐specific questions.

2. Since the environment is changing at an unprecedented rate, there is an ongoing demand for predictions from plankton ecology on the consequences of global change.

3. In 2010, a colloquium was held on three subjects: chaos versus predictability in plankton dynamics, global patterns versus regional differences in plankton dynamics and climate‐induced changes in plankton dynamics.

4. Papers in this Special Issue propose a new model of plankton dynamics under climate change in different climate zones; offer increased attention to the role of winters in resetting population dynamics; discuss the effects of climate change on ecological stoichiometry and efficiency of trophic transfer; describe the relative and interacting effects of changes in temperature and hydrology on plankton; and analyse the effects of climate change on host–parasite dynamics.

5. Important research gaps include increased monitoring of understudied climatic zones, adaptation of plankton organisms to altered environmental conditions, interactions of climate change with legacy nutrients, interactions with other anthropogenic pressures and interactions with the infochemical network.
Comparing mechanistic and empirical model projections of crop suitability and productivity: implications for ecological forecasting
Authors: Estes L. D. , Bradley B. A. , Beukes H. , Hole D. G. , Lau M. , Oppenheimer M. G. , Schulze R. , Tadross M. A. , Turner W. R.
Published: January 2013

Aim

Intercomparison of mechanistic and empirical models is an important step towards improving projections of potential species distribution and abundance. We aim to compare suitability and productivity estimates for a well‐understood crop species to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of mechanistic versus empirical modelling.

Location

South Africa.

Methods

We compared four habitat suitability models for dryland maize based on climate and soil predictors. Two were created using maximum entropy (MAXENT), the first based on national crop distribution points and the second based only on locations with high productivity. The third approach used a generalized additive model (GAM) trained with continuous productivity data derived from the satellite normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). The fourth model was a mechanistic crop growth model (DSSAT) made spatially explicit. We tested model accuracy by comparing the results with observed productivity derived from MODIS NDVI and with observed suitability based on the current spatial distribution of maize crop fields.

Results

The GAM and DSSAT results were linearly correlated to NDVI‐measured yield (R2 = 0.75 and 0.37, respectively). MAXENT suitability values were not linearly related to yield (R2 = 0.08); however, a MAXENT model based on occurrences of high‐productivity maize was linearly related to yield (R2 = 0.62). All models produced crop suitability maps of similarly good accuracy (Kappa = 0.73–75).

Main conclusions

These findings suggest that empirical models can achieve the same or better accuracy as mechanistic models for predicting both suitability (i.e. species range) and productivity (i.e. species abundance). While MAXENT could not predict productivity across the species range when trained on all occurrences, it could when trained with a high‐productivity subset, suggesting that ecological niche models can be adjusted to better correlate with species abundance.
Do patients use decision and communication aids as prompted when meeting with breast cancer specialists?
Authors: Volz Shelley , Moore Dan H. , Belkora Jeffrey K.
Published: January 2013

Background

Our breast cancer clinic promotes patient use of decision and communication aids (DAs/CAs) through two mechanisms: coaching and prompting. From January through September 2010, we provided services to 462 of 1106 new visitors (42%). Of those 462 visitors, 267 (58%) received coaching. For the remainder (195 or 42%), the best we could do was prompt them to self‐administer the DA and CAs.

Objective

We wanted to learn whether patients prompted to use DAs/CAs did so.

Methods

We surveyed prompted patients after their visits. We asked how much of each DA they reviewed, whether they listed questions, made notes and audio‐recorded their consultations. We tallied frequencies and explored associations using logistic regression.

Results

Of the 195 prompted patients, 82 responded to surveys (42%). Nearly all (66/73 or 90%) reported reviewing some or all of the booklets and 52/73 (71%) reported viewing some or all of the DVDs. While 63/78 (81%) responded that they wrote a question list, only 14/61 (23%) said they showed it to their doctor. Two‐thirds (51/77 or 66%) said someone took notes, but only 16/79 (20%) reported making audio recordings.

Discussion

More patients reported following prompts to use DAs than CAs. Few reported showing question lists to physicians or recording their visits. Our exploratory analyses surfaced associations between using CAs and race/ethnicity or education that merit further investigation.

Conclusion

Prompting patients assures better use of decision than communication aids. Clinicians may need to take a more active role to ensure patients receive adequate notes and recordings.
Incident hypertension in older women and men with or at risk for HIV infection
Authors: Factor SH , Lo Y , Schoenbaum E , Klein RS
Published: January 2013

Objectives

Antiretroviral (ARV) therapy has prolonged the life expectancy of HIV‐infected persons, increasing their risk of age‐associated diseases, including atherosclerosis (AS). Decreased risk of AS has been associated with the prevention and control of hypertension (HTN). We conducted a cohort study of perimenopausal women and older men with or at risk of HIV infection to identify risk factors for incident HTN.

Methods

Standardized interviews, physical examinations, and laboratory examinations were scheduled at 6‐month intervals. Interview data included demographics, medical, family, sexual behaviour and drug use histories, and physical activity.

Results

There were 330 women and 329 men eligible for inclusion in the study; 27% and 35% of participants developed HTN during a median follow‐up period of 1080 and 1071 days, respectively. In gender‐stratified analysis, adjusting for traditional HTN risk factors (age, race, body mass index, smoking, diabetes, family history of HTN, alcohol dependence, physical activity and high cholesterol), HIV infection was not associated with incident HTN in women [hazard ratio (HR) 1.31; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.56, 3.06] or men (HR 1.67; 95% CI 0.75, 3.74). Among HIV‐infected women, although exposure to ARVs was not significantly associated with incident HTN (HR 0.72; 95% CI 0.26, 1.99), CD4 T‐cell count was positively associated with incident HTN (HR 1.15 per 100 cells/μL; 95% CI 1.03, 1.28). Among physically active HIV‐infected men, exposure to ARVs was negatively associated with incident HTN (HR 0.15; 95% CI 0.03, 0.78).

Conclusions

HIV infection was not associated with incident HTN in older men or women. This study provides additional evidence supporting a causal relationship between immune function and incident HTN, which warrants further study.
Predictive models of pain following root canal treatment: a prospective clinical study
Authors: Arias A. , de la Macorra J. C. , Hidalgo J. J. , Azabal M.
Published: January 2013

Aim

To determine the probability of the incidence, intensity, duration and triggering of post‐endodontic pain, considering factors related to the patient (age, gender, medical evaluation) and to the affected tooth (group, location, number of canals, pulp vitality, preoperative pain, periapical radiolucencies, previous emergency access, presence of occlusal contacts with antagonist).

Methodology

A total of 500 one‐visit root canal treatments (RCTs) were performed on patients referred to an endodontist. Shaping of root canals was performed manually with Gates‐Glidden drills and K‐Flexofiles, and apical patency was maintained with a size 10 file. A 5% NaOCl solution was used for irrigation, and canals were filled with lateral compaction and AH‐Plus sealer. Independent factors were recorded during the treatment, and characteristics of post‐endodontic pain (incidence, intensity, type and duration) were later surveyed through questionnaires. Of the 500 questionnaires, 374 were properly returned and split in two groups for two different statistical purposes: 316 cases were used to adjust the logistic regression models to predict each characteristic of post‐endodontic pain using predictive factors, and the remaining 58 cases were used to test the validity of each model.

Results

The predictive models showed that the incidence of post‐endodontic pain was significantly lower when the treated tooth was not a molar (P = 0.003), demonstrated periapical radiolucencies (P = 0.003), had no history of previous pain (P = 0.006) or emergency endodontic treatment (P = 0.045) and had no occlusal contact (P < 0.0001). The probability of experiencing moderate or severe pain was higher with increasing age (P = 0.09) and in mandibular teeth (P = 0.045). The probability of pain lasting more than 2 days was increased with age (P = 0.1) and decreased in males (P = 0.007) and when a radiolucent lesion was present on radiographs (P = 0.1).

Conclusions

Predictive formulae for the incidence, the intensity and the duration of post‐endodontic pain were generated and validated taking account of the interrelation of multiple concomitant clinical factors. A predictive model for triggering post‐endodontic pain could not be established.
Development of a green consumer behaviour model
Authors: do Paço Arminda , Alves Helena , Shiel Chris , Filho Walter Leal
Published: January 2013

Research on the background of green behaviour has indicated that the relationship between its antecedents and behavioural consequences is complex and constitutes a challenge for both academics and marketers. Thus, this study aims to explore the link between environmental values, attitudes and behaviours, as well as to develop and test a model that could be valid and applicable to a set of consumers living in different countries. The research examines the perceptions of a sample of 1175 consumers from England, Germany, Portugal and Spain. A model was developed to test the relationships between concepts such as man–nature orientation, generativity, environmental concern, conserving behaviour and environmentally friendly buying behaviour. Structural equation modelling was performed to assess the significance of those linkages. The results obtained confirm the relationship between attitudes and behaviours as the construct conserving behaviour appears to influence buying behaviour, and suggests some measures which may be implemented in simultaneously testing education concepts across audiences in different countries.
Statistical Analysis Plan for the Second Intensive Blood Pressure Reduction in Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage Trial (INTERACT2)
Authors: Anderson Craig , Heeley Emma , Heritier Stephane , Arima Hisatomi , Woodward Mark , Lindley Richard , Neal Bruce , Huang Yining , Wang Ji-Guang , Parsons Mark , Stapf Christian , Robinson Tom , Lavados Pablo , Delcourt Candice , Davis Stephen , Chalmers John ,   for the INTERACT2 Investigators
Published: January 2013

The Statistical analysis plan (SAP) for the second INTEnsive blood pressure Reduction in Acute Cerebral hemorrhage Trial (INTERACT2).
Specific involvement of two amino acid residues in cis‐nerolidol binding to odorant‐binding protein 5 AlinOBP5 in the alfalfa plant bug, Adelphocoris lineolatus (Goeze)
Authors: Wang S.‐Y. , Gu S.‐H. , Han L. , Guo Y.‐Y. , Zhou J.‐J. , Zhang Y.‐J.
Published: January 2013

Olfaction plays an important role in insects' survival and reproduction. Odorant‐binding proteins (OBPs) are considered to be one of the crucial proteins in the insect olfactory pathway. In this study, an antenna‐specific OBP of the alfalfa plant bug, Adelphocoris lineolatus AlinOBP5, was expressed and purified in vitro. The binding affinities of AlinOBP5 with sex pheromone analogues of the Miridae and cotton volatiles were investigated by fluorescence competitive binding assays. The binding sites of AlinOBP5 were predicted by three‐dimensional structure modelling and molecular docking, and site‐directed mutagenesis. AlinOBP5 could not effectively bind with sex pheromone analogues of Miridae but showed high binding abilities with specific cotton volatiles, such as cis‐nerolidol, ethyl laurate, β‐ionone, β‐caryophyllene, 2,3‐dimethylbenzoic acid and (E)‐farnesol. The strongest binding affinity was to cis‐nerolidol, suggesting a role of AlinOBP5 in general odorant chemoreception. Based on the relatively strong binding affinity and the reported physiological activity of cis‐nerolidol in other insects, we chose cis‐nerolidol for further homology modelling and ligand docking. The results of molecular simulation and site‐directed mutagenesis indicated that two amino acids, Lys74 and Pro121, in the protein binding pocket are the key amino acids involved in the binding of cis‐nerolidol. The Lys74 residue may participate in specific recognition of ligands, and the Pro121 residue plays a crucial role in ligand binding and release by changing the binding pocket environment and stabilizing the conformation of the C‐terminus of AlinOBP5.
Unusual selection and peripheral homeostasis for immunoregulatory CD4− CD8−T cells
Authors: Dugas Véronique , Chabot‐Roy Geneviève , Beauchamp Claudine , Guimont‐Desrochers Fanny , Hillhouse Erin E. , Liston Adrian , Lesage Sylvie
Published: January 2013

Immunoregulatory CD4− CD8− (double‐negative; DN) T cells exhibit a unique antigen‐specific mode of suppression, yet the ontogeny of DN T cells remains enigmatic. We have recently shown that 3A9 T‐cell receptor (TCR) transgenic mice bear a high proportion of immunoregulatory 3A9 DN T cells, facilitating their study. The 3A9 TCR is positively selected on the H2k MHC haplotype, is negatively selected in mice bearing the cognate antigen, namely hen egg lysozyme, and there is absence of positive selection on the H2b MHC haplotype. Herein, we take advantage of this well‐defined 3A9 TCR transgenic model to assess the thymic differentiation of DN T cells and its impact on determining the proportion of these cells in secondary lymphoid organs. We find that the proportion of DN T cells in the thymus is not dictated by the nature of the MHC‐selecting haplotype. By defining DN T‐cell differentiation in 3A9 TCR transgenic CD47‐deficient mice as well as in mice bearing the NOD.H2k genetic background, we further demonstrate that the proportion of 3A9 DN T cells in the spleen is independent of the MHC selecting haplotype. Together, our findings suggest that immunoregulatory DN T cells are subject to rules distinct from those imposed upon CD4 T cells.
Infants Show Ratio‐dependent Number Discrimination Regardless of Set Size
Authors: Starr Ariel , Libertus Melissa E. , Brannon Elizabeth M.
Published: January 2013

Evidence for approximate number system (ANS) representations in infancy is robust but has typically only been found when infants are presented with arrays of four or more elements. In addition, several studies have found that infants fail to discriminate between small numbers when continuous variables such as surface area and contour length are controlled. These findings suggest that under some circumstances, infants fail to recruit either the ANS or object file representations for small sets. Here, we used a numerical change detection paradigm to assess 6‐month‐old infants' ability to represent small values. In Experiment 1, infants were tested with 1 versus 3, 1 versus 2, and 2 versus 3 dots. Infants successfully discriminated 1 versus 3 and 1 versus 2, but failed with 2 versus 3. In Experiment 2, we tested whether infants could compare small and large values with a 2 versus 4 condition. Across both experiments, infants' performance exhibited ratio dependence, the hallmark of the ANS. Our results indicate that infants can attend to the purely numerical attributes of small sets and that the numerical change detection paradigm accesses ANS representations in infancy regardless of set size.
Improving services for people with personality disorders: Views of experienced clinicians
Authors: Fanaian Mahnaz , Lewis Kate L. , Grenyer Brin F.S.
Published: January 2013

People with personality disorders are frequent users of both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric services, representing a significantly large proportion of all mental health clients. Despite this, most services find it a challenge to offer the most appropriate and effective treatment models for people with personality disorders. This paper is a report of a study of clinician opinions about how organizations can improve the delivery of services to people with personality disorders. Data was collected from experienced clinicians attending a personality disorders clinical and scientific meeting who were asked to work together in groups and present solutions for how organizations can improve the services provided to people with personality disorders. Qualitative data was collected and thematically and semantically analyzed using Nvivo and Leximancer. The Nvivo analysis revealed five main areas in which clinicians believe organizations can improve services for people with personality disorders. These focused on: (i) more training and education for health professionals and carers; (ii) better support through supervision and leadership; (iii) adoption of a more consistent evidence‐based approach to client management and treatment; (iv) clearer guidelines and protocols; and (v) changed attitudes about personality disorder to decrease stigma. The Leximancer analysis of responses indicated the identified themes were not distinct; rather they were interconnected and related to one another, semantically. In summary, clinicians across a large and diverse geographical area developed a consensus that mainstream management of personality disorder is largely poor and inadequate. The findings lend support to an integrative and collaborative whole‐service approach that enhances evidence‐based practice in the community.
Rock physics modelling of 4D time‐shifts and time‐shift derivatives using well log data – a North Sea demonstration
Authors: Avseth Per , Skjei Norunn , Skålnes Åshild
Published: January 2013

Rock physics models for fluid and stress dependency in reservoir rocks are essential for quantification and interpretation of 4D seismic signatures during reservoir depletion and injection. For siliciclastic sandstone reservoirs, the Gassmann theory successfully predicts changes in seismic properties associated with fluid changes. However, our ability to predict the sensitivity to pressure from first principles is poor, especially for cemented sandstones. In this study, we demonstrate how we can use a patchy cement rock physics model to quantify the combined effect of stress and fluid changes in terms of seismic time‐shifts and time‐shift derivatives during depletion or injection. The time‐shifts are estimated directly from well log data without core calibration of stress sensitivity. By assuming non‐uniform grain contacts where some grain contacts are cemented and others are loose, we can combine the contact theory for cemented sandstones with the contact theory for loose sands in order to predict stress sensitivity in a patchy cemented sandstone reservoir. Time‐shift derivatives are also useful estimates, as this parameter reveals which part of the reservoir is most stress sensitive and contributes most to the cumulative time‐shift.

We test out our new approach on well log data from Troll East, North Sea and compare the predicted time‐shifts with observed 4D seismic time‐shifts. We find that there are good agreements between predicted time‐shifts and observed time‐shifts. Furthermore, we confirm that there are local geological trends controlling the fluid and stress sensitivity of the reservoir sands on Troll East. In particular, we observe a lateral stiffening of the reservoir from west to east, probably associated with the tectonic and burial history of the area. The combined effect of a thinning gas cap and stiffening reservoir sands amplifies the eastward decrease in time‐shifts associated with reservoir depletion. We manage to disentangle these two effects using rock physics analysis. It is essential to identify and map the static rock stiffness spatial trends before interpreting time‐shifts and time‐shift derivatives in terms of dynamic (i.e., 4D) pressure and fluid changes.
Preventing contamination at the time of central venous catheter insertion: a literature review and recommendations for clinical practice
Authors: Yacopetti Nicholas , Davidson Patricia M , Blacka Joy , Spencer Timothy R
Published: January 2013

Aims and objectives

To evaluate the evidence base and rationale underpinning the various infections control strategies during central venous catheter insertion and to promote discussion about the key, recurring concepts and recommendations in the literature. Logistical and organisational factors relating to central venous catheter insertion are also examined.

Background

Catheter‐related bloodstream infections following the insertion of central venous catheters are associated with significant patient mortality and morbidity, prolonged hospital stays and increased economic costs. Limited published literature specifically examines microbial contamination during the peri‐insertion process.

Methods

An integrative literature review supervised by a health informatics librarian was undertaken. On the basis of these data, considerations for clinical practice are provided. Retrieved articles were categorised under the following themes: risk of contamination at insertion; clinical and organisational impact of contamination; strategies for reducing contamination; controversies and challenges with decontamination strategies; recommendations for practice and implications for further research and organisational practice.

Results

Specific recommendations for reducing catheter‐related bloodstream infections based on recurring themes include the following: reducing microbial burden on skin prior to the central venous catheter insertion; decreasing contact of gloves and insertion equipment with the patient's skin; using specifically trained staff to prepare and maintain a sterile field; and ensuring a sterile technique is adhered to throughout the central venous catheter insertion process. The need for organisational, procedural and clinical practices to support better healthcare outcomes is demonstrated. Highlighting the importance of executive support and regular review of policy and guidelines are necessary to improve patient outcomes.

Conclusions

Preventing infections related to central venous catheters requires the integration of clinical, organisational and workforce factors.
Ultrasonographic Adrenal Gland Measurements in Healthy Yorkshire Terriers and Labrador Retrievers
Authors: de Chalus T. , Combes A. , Bedu A.‐S. , Pey P. , Daminet S. , Duchateau L. , Saunders J. H.
Published: January 2013

An upper threshold of 7.4 mm for maximal adrenal gland diameter is commonly used to detect pituitary‐dependent hyperadrenocorticism ultrasonographically in dogs. There is a substantial overlap between adrenal gland diameter of healthy dogs and of those with pituitary‐dependent hyperadrenocorticism. The aim of this study is to determine the measurements of both adrenal glands, in particular, of the height at the caudal glandular pole in a longitudinal plane, in the Labrador retriever and Yorkshire terrier, two breeds widely represented in the population suspected of hyperadrenocorticism. Seventeen Labrador retrievers and 24 Yorkshire terriers considered healthy were included in the study. Adrenal gland measurements were taken on static images and comprised in measurements of the length in a longitudinal plane (L), of the height at the cranial (CrHLG) and caudal pole (CdHLG) in a longitudinal plane and in a transverse plane (CrHTRand CdHTR, respectively), and of the width at the cranial and caudal poles in a transverse plane (CrWTRand CdWTR, respectively). This study established new upper thresholds for the left and right height at the caudal pole measured in a longitudinal plane: 7.9 mm (left) and 9.5 mm (right) for the Labrador retrievers and 5.4 mm (left) and 6.7 mm (right) for the Yorkshire terriers. All the measurements were significantly different between the two breeds. There was a significant relationship between CdHTRand CdHLG, and the age of the dogs for both breeds.
Gender Differences in the Anatomy of the Perineal Glands in Guinea Pigs and the Effect of Castration
Authors: Iburg T. M. , Arnbjerg J. , Rueløkke M. L.
Published: January 2013

Perineal glands in guinea pigs are part of the sebaceous glandular complex. Their secretions are used for scent marking. This is important for social status and can be seen in both sexes and castrated males. Discrepancy exits about the existence of these glands in female guinea pigs and knowledge of the anatomical consequences of castration on the male perineal glands is sparse. To examine these uncertainties related to gender, perineal glands from 13 sexually mature pet guinea pigs were examined macro‐ and microscopically. Clear gender differences in the anatomy of perineal glands were found, and castrated males showed signs of atrophy and fatty infiltration in the glands. Females do have perineal glands, although smaller than the glands in the male. The glands are typically sebaceous with multiple excretory ducts. A macroscopic unique feature in the males was the clearly evident orifices of a large excretory duct on each side of the slightly everted perineal sac. However, the reason for this gender difference is not clear. In castrated males, the orifices were atrophied and difficult to see. In addition, the sebaceous glands of the hair follicles in the skin folds of the perineal opening were smaller and less abundant in females and castrated males. The changes in castrated males are presumably linked to the hormonal changes and decreased secretion after castration. The dense keratin layer in the perineal sac was thicker in males than in both castrated males and females and could contribute to the concrement formation seen mainly in males.
Factors associated with fecal incontinence in women with lower urinary tract symptoms
Authors: Chang Ting‐Chen , Chang Shiow‐Ru , Hsiao Sheng‐Mou , Hsiao Chin‐Fen , Chen Chi‐Hau , Lin Ho‐Hsiung
Published: January 2013

Aim:  The aim of this study was to identify the factors associated with fecal incontinence in female patients with lower urinary tract symptoms.

Material and Methods:  Data regarding clinical and urodynamic parameters and history of fecal incontinence of 1334 women with lower urinary tract symptoms who had previously undergone urodynamic evaluation were collected and subjected to univariate, multivariate, and receiver–operator characteristic curve analysis to identify significant associations between these parameters and fecal incontinence.

Results:  Multivariate analysis identified age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01–1.05, P = 0.005), presence of diabetes (OR = 2.10, 95%CI = 1.22–3.61, P = 0.007), presence of urodynamic stress incontinence (OR = 1.90, 95%CI = 1.24–2.91, P = 0.003), pad weight (OR = 1.01, 95%CI = 1.00–1.01, P = 0.04), and detrusor pressure at maximum flow (OR = 1.02, 95%CI = 1.01–1.03, P = 0.003) as independent risk factors for fecal incontinence. Receiver–operator characteristic curve analysis identified age ≥ 55 years, detrusor pressure at maximum flow ≥ 35 cmH2O, and pad weight ≥ 15 g as having positive predictive values of 11.4%, 11.5%, and 12.4%, respectively, thus indicating that they are the most predictive values in concomitant fecal incontinence.

Conclusions:  Detrusor pressure at maximum flow and pad weight may be associated with fecal incontinence in female patients with lower urinary tract symptoms, but require confirmation as indicators by further study before their use as screening tools.
Inferring controls on the epidemiology of beech bark disease from spatial patterning of disease organisms
Authors: Garnas Jeffrey R. , Houston David R. , Twery Mark J. , Ayres Matthew P. , Evans Celia
Published: January 2013

Spatial pattern in the distribution and abundance of organisms is an emergent property of collective rates of reproduction, survival and movement of individuals in a heterogeneous environment.

The form, intensity and scale of spatial patterning can be used to test hypotheses regarding the relative importance of candidate processes to population dynamics.

Using 84 plots across eastern North America, we studied populations of two associated plant parasites, the invasive felted beech scaleCryptococcus fagisugaLind. and the nativeNeonectriafungi, which together cause beech bark disease (BBD).

We evaluated spatial patterns at the scales of trees within stands, stands within the forest and forests within the landscape to examine four hypothetically important factors in the ecology of the disease: (i) local contagion within stands; (ii) regional contagion, or among patch infection–reinfection dynamics; (iii) variation in host susceptibility linked to genetic and/or environmental heterogeneity; and (iv) climate effects on population growth of BBD organisms.

Analyses revealed an unexpected lack of spatial aggregation in BBD populations among trees, stands and forests. This implies that propagule pressure is generally sufficiently high throughout the infested region of North America such that neither trees nor stands are spared from the disease by dispersal limitations of the disease agents. Furthermore, variation in tree and stand level susceptibility has minimal impact on BBD dynamics and climate is not a conspicuous driver of abundance within the core range of BBD.
THE HARD LIFE OF THE SOCIAL PLANNER
Authors: VALENTE SIMONE
Published: January 2013

Where the social planner, threatened by final producers and walled‐in by innovators, releases the representative consumer from the pillory, hires two anonymous referees, and convinces the Economics Minister that final firms' purchases of monopolistically produced intermediate inputs should be taxed, not subsidized, as long as output growth does not exhibit scale effects. This normative prescription hinges on an often neglected reallocation mechanism generated by the linear accumulation laws that eliminate scale effects in most endogenous growth models. (JEL O41, O31)
Modeling Ambiguity in Census Microdata Allocations to Improve Demographic Small Area Estimates
Authors: Leyk Stefan , Buttenfield Barbara P. , Nagle Nicholas N.
Published: January 2013

This article describes a methodology for allocating demographic microdata to small enumeration areas such as census tracts, in the presence of underlying ambiguities. Maximum Entropy methods impute population weights that are constrained to match a set of census tract‐level summary statistics. Once allocated, the household characteristics are summarized to revise estimates of tract‐level demographic summary statistics, and to derive measures of ambiguity. The revised summary statistics are compared with original tract summaries within a context of expected variation. Allocation ambiguity is quantified for each household as a function of the distribution of imputed sample weights over all census tracts, and by computed metrics of confusion and variety of allocation to any census tract. The process reported here allows differentiation of households with regard to inherent ambiguity in the allocation decision. Ambiguity assessment represents an important component that has been neglected in spatial allocation work to date but can be seen as important additional knowledge for demographers and users of small area estimates. For the majority of tested variables, the revised tract level summaries correlate highly with original tract summary statistics. In addition to assessments for individual households, it is also possible to compute average allocation ambiguity for individual tracts, and to associate this with demographic characteristics not utilized in the allocation process.
A Pitch‐Class Set Space Odyssey, Told by Way of a Hexachord‐Induced System of Genera
Authors: Gates Bernard
Published: January 2013

The notion that pitch‐class sets might occupy some form of multi‐dimensional space has engaged a number of theorists over the years. The ‘space odyssey’ in this article delves into several new issues, such as a methodology for the creation of a comprehensive array of bonded inclusional growth chains, the formation of a diatonic‐to‐chromatic, M5‐induced spectrum of symmetrically arranged set classes and a simple method for establishing levels of affinity between set classes. These investigations lead to the advancement of a sixfold system of genera and to hierarchical distributions of all set classes, furnishing a distinct shape or profile to the whole set‐class universe and to each of the genera. A productive way of producing a three‐dimensional model incorporating all set classes presents itself if four foci, the ‘bichromatic’ 6–7 (0,1,2,6,7,8), hexatonic 6–20 (0,1,4,5,8,9), octatonic 6–30 (0,1,3,6,7,9) and whole‐tone 6–35 (0,2,4,6,8,10), are granted their own spatial ‘homes’ at distant points on an M‐invariant axis placed perpendicular to a diatonic 6–32 (0,2,4,5,7,9) to chromatic 6–1 (0,1,2,3,4,5) axis. A transparent globe would seem to be the most suitable vehicle for the representation of this arrangement, where the chromatic and diatonic foci take the ‘north’ and ‘south’ poles and the other four take their positions around the ‘equator’.
‘The land and its people’: reflections on artistic identification in an age of nations and nationalism
Authors: Smith Anthony
Published: January 2013

From the late eighteenth century onwards, increasing numbers of visual artists came to identify with their nations and with the homeland and its people. This development was strongly influenced by growing national cultural support and regulation of the arts by academies, art schools, museums and art markets inWesternEurope. On a subjective level, theRousseauan movement of a ‘return toNature’,Herder's espousal of vernacular cultural self‐expression and, above all, the widespreadRomantic cult of authenticity, were potent influences on the inner self‐identification of visual artists after 1800, and were manifested in the novel importance accorded to landscape and rural genre painting inWesternEurope. HereIconsider the role of national sentiment, the ‘return toNature’ and the cult of authenticity, first in landscape paintings byPaulSandby,J.M.W.Turner andJohnConstable in early nineteenth‐centuryBritain, and then in the rural genre paintings ofJean‐FrancoisMillet andJulesBreton in nineteenth‐centuryFrance andJosefIsraels,AntonMauve andVincentVanGogh in the later nineteenth‐centuryNetherlands. Their work reveals how nineteenth‐century visual artists became inwardly identified with the ‘land and its people’, and how they in turn contributed, especially through prints and engravings, to the dissemination of national imagery and a cultural nationalism.
“Words matter.” A Response to Jørgensen's Treatment of Historic Range and Definitions of Reintroduction
Authors: Dalrymple Sarah E. , Moehrenschlager Axel
Published: January 2013

According to Jørgensen, the definition of reintroductions is crucial to their proper implementation and she highlights a number of ambiguities in existing definitions, particularly associated with the concept of historic range. We could not agree more and have incorporated her suggested term of “indigenous range” rather than “historic range” into the current revision of the InternationalUnion for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Guidelines for Reintroductions and other Conservation Translocations (in preparation by IUCN Species Survival Commission Reintroduction and Invasive Species Specialist Groups). We also agree with Jørgensen's interpretation that reintroductions are not always necessitated by humans causing the extirpation of species. However, we disagree with other aspects of Jørgensen's argument such as the critique of Seddon, the interpretation of previous IUCN guidance documents, and the recommendation that the conservation community “rethink the basic definition of reintroduction” rather than moving toward other translocation‐based interventions. With regard to the latter point, we emphasize that reintroductions are part of a spectrum of translocations and to focus on reintroductions alone would overlook the fact that introductions beyond a species' indigenous range are being attempted. The new revision of the IUCN guidelines incorporates the whole conservation translocation spectrum and aims to avoid the ambiguities of previous definitions highlighted by Jørgensen.
Testing Broadcast Seeding Methods to Restore Urban Forests in the Presence of Seed Predators
Authors: Overdyck Elizabeth , Clarkson Bruce D. , Laughlin Daniel C. , Gemmill Chrissen E. C.
Published: January 2013

Forest restoration in urban areas often occurs in isolation from remnant forest, limiting the chances for recolonization by native species. Plants with bird‐dispersed seeds can be particularly vulnerable to dispersal limitation and regeneration can be further impeded by non‐native seed predators. We used a factorial experiment to investigate broadcast seeding as a method to reintroduce trees with large seeds and fleshy fruits into early successional forests. We assessed rates of seed and fruit loss, germination and seedling establishment in three seed treatments: (1) caging to exclude introduced mammalian seed predators; (2) removal of fleshy fruit pericarp; and (3) placing seeds in nutritionally enriched clay balls. Across all species (Beilschmiedia tawa, Elaeocarpus dentatus, and Litsea calicaris) seeds and fruits accessible to mammalian predators suffered significantly greater loss (58%) than those protected by cages (4%). However, seed and fruit loss in the presence of predators was reduced to only 35% across all species by the treatment combining the removal of fruit flesh and clay ball application to seeds. Establishment of B. tawa seedlings after 1 year was significantly enhanced by the clay ball treatment (12% of seeds sown vs. 6% without clay balls). Very low establishment rates were recorded for E. dentatus and L. calicaris. Broadcast seeding was found to be a viable method of improving regeneration of large‐seeded late successional trees and may be a cost‐effective alternative to planting saplings. Seedling establishment can be improved with fruit flesh removal and clay ball treatments, especially in the presence of mammalian seed predators.
Mortality Risk and Its Effect on Shortfall and Risk Management in Life Insurance
Authors: Gatzert Nadine , Wesker Hannah
Published: January 2013

Mortality risk is a key risk factor for life insurance companies and can have a crucial impact on its risk situation. In general, mortality risk can be divided into different subcategories, among them unsystematic risk, adverse selection, and systematic risk. In addition, basis risk may arise in case of hedging, for example, longevity risk. The aim of this article is to holistically analyze the impact of these different types of mortality risk on the risk situation and the risk management of a life insurer. Toward this end, we extend previous models of adverse selection, empirically calibrate mortality rates, and study the interaction among the mortality risk components in the case of an insurer holding a portfolio of annuities and term life insurance contracts. For risk management, we examine natural hedging and mortality contingent bonds. Our results show that particularly adverse selection and basis risk can have crucial impact not only on the effectiveness of mortality contingent bonds, but also on the insurer's risk level, especially when a portfolio consists of several types of products.
A multi-pixel beamformer using an interferometric array and its application to the localization of newly discovered pulsars
Authors: Roy Jayanta , Bhattacharyya Bhaswati , Gupta Yashwant
Published: January 2013

We have developed a multi-pixel beamformer technique, which can be used to enhance the capability of studying pulsars using an interferometric array. Using the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT), we illustrate the application of this efficient technique, which combines the enhanced sensitivity of a coherent array beamformer with the wide field-of-view seen by an incoherent array beamformer. The multi-pixel beamformer algorithm is implemented using the recorded base-band data. With the optimizations in multi-pixelization described in this Letter, it is now possible to form 16 directed beams in real time. We discuss a special application of this technique, where we use continuum imaging followed by the multi-pixel beamformer to obtain the precise locations of newly discovered millisecond pulsars with the GMRT. Accurate positions measured with single observations enable highly sensitive follow-up studies using a coherent array beamformer and rapid follow-up at higher radio frequencies and other wavelengths. Normally, such accurate positions can only be obtained from a long-term pulsar timing programme. The multi-pixel beamformer technique can also be used for highly sensitive targeted pulsar searches in extended supernova remnants. In addition this method can provide optimal performance for large-scale pulsar surveys using multi-element arrays.
The 2010 British Association of Stroke Physicians Survey of Interventional Treatments for Stroke in the United Kingdom
Authors: Sanyal R. , Barrick J. , Bhalla A. , Cassidy T. , Collas D. , Cloud G. , Fearon P. , Gompertz P. , Keir S. , Khanna P. , Power M. , White P. , Roffe C.
Published: January 2013

Introduction

The UK National Stroke Strategy (Department of Health 2007) states that patients should have access to a stroke service with neurointerventional capacity. This survey was conducted by the Clinical Standards Committee of the British Association of Stroke Physicians to get a snapshot of the availability of interventional treatments for stroke in the United Kingdom.

Methods

Questionnaires covering availability of endovascular treatments for stroke, e.g. intra-arterial thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy, were emailed to all British Association of Stroke Physicians members in October 2010. Where more than one response was received from the same hospital, the data were only entered once. If there was a discrepancy between different respondents for the same hospital, details were cross-checked with the respondents to ensure accuracy.

Results

Responses were received from 58 hospitals in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Intra-arterial thrombolysis and/or mechanical thrombectomy were available in 23 hospitals. Of these, three had not performed any procedures in 2010. Twenty centres had conducted a mean (range) of eight (2–20) procedures during the 10-month period. Thirty-five hospitals were not offering endovascular treatments. Sixteen of these were not referring patients to centres which could provide interventional treatments. Hospitals offering endovascular treatments had a mean (range) of 5·2 (2–12) stroke physicians, 2·3 (0–4) interventional neuroradiologists, and 3·6 (0–9) noninterventional neuroradiologists. Only two hospitals providing interventions had four or more interventional neuroradiologists.

Conclusions

Only a small number of hospitals in the United Kingdom provide interventional treatments for stroke. Almost 50% of hospitals not providing interventions had no processes in place for referral to providers.
Selection for Delayed Intravenous Alteplase Treatment Based on a Prognostic Score
Authors: Fulton Rachael L , Lees Kennedy R , Bluhmki Erich , Biegert Gabriele , Albers Gregory W , Davis Stephen M , Donnan Geoffrey A , Grotta James C , Hacke Werner , Kaste Markku , von Kummer Rüdiger , Shuaib Ashfaq , Toni Danilo ,   for the VISTA Collaboration and ECASS, ATLANTIS, NINDS, and EPITHET Investigators
Published: January 2013

Background and Purpose

Approved use of intravenous alteplase for ischemic stroke offers net benefit. Pooled randomized controlled trial analysis suggests additional patients could benefit but others be harmed with treatment initiated beyond 4·5 h after stroke onset. We proposed prognostic scoring methods to identify a strategy for patient selection.

Methods

We selected 500 patients treated by intravenous alteplase and 500 controls from Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive, matching modified Rankin score outcomes to those from pooled randomized controlled trial 4·5–6 h data. We ranked patients by prognostic score. We chose limits to optimize our sample for a net treatment benefit significant at P = 0·01 by Cochran–Mantel–Haenszel test and by ordinal regression. For validation, we had these applied to the pooled randomized controlled trial data for 4·5–6 h, testing for net benefit by Cochran–Mantel–Haenszel test, ordinal regression, and also by dichotomized outcomes: modified Rankin score 0–1, mortality and parenchymal hemorrhage type 2 bleeds. All analyses were adjusted for age and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale.

Results

In the training dataset, limits of 56–95 on a prognostic score retained 714 patients in whom there was net benefit significant at P = 0·01. When applied to the 1120 patients in the pooled randomized controlled trial 4·5–6 h dataset, score limits of 56–95 retained 711 patients and gave odds ratio for improved modified Rankin score distribution of 1·13, 95% confidence interval 0·87–1·47, Cochran–Mantel–Haenszel P = 0·89. More patients achieved modified Rankin score 0–1 (odds ratio 1·44, 1·02–2·05, P = 0·04) but mortality and parenchymal hemorrhage type 2 bleeds were increased: odds ratio 1·56, 1·01–2·40, P = 0·04; odds ratio 15·6, 3·7–65·8, P = 0·0002, respectively.

Conclusion

Selection of patients between 4·5 and 6 h based on simple clinical measures failed to deliver a population in whom the alteplase effect would be safe and effective.