bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Auditing Leviathan: Corruption and State Formation in Early Eighteenth-Century Britain
Authors: Graham Aaron
Published: July 2013

Administrative and financial corruption was a central preoccupation of eighteenth-century Britain, and effective audit supposedly the sine qua non of an efficient fiscal-military state, yet no studies exist of its true extent or why audit mechanisms could prove so ineffective. Through a close study of the papers of James Brydges, Paymaster of the Forces between 1705 and 1713 and ‘a byword for corruption’, this article argues that a variety of inventive means were used to bypass the Exchequer audit, including outright falsification and forgery. Yet the Exchequer was not ineffective, and ultimately political standing determined how far corruption was detected or deterred. Where Brydges could mobilise personal and political connections with the Exchequer and other bodies such as the Comptrollers of Army Accounts, he had more success at evading scrutiny. By contrast, although the parliamentary Commissioners of Public Accounts used arbitrary and relatively unsystematic audit procedures and were motivated mainly by partisan interests, this lent them political power and motivation and thereby increased the credibility of their investigations. Less assured of political protection, Brydges therefore ceased most of his activities. Thus effective audit was not primarily the product of more impartial, rational or bureaucratic administrative structures, as most historians have suggested, but of the relative political standing of auditors versus their opponents. This has profound implications for studies of corruption and auditing during the eighteenth century and its continuities with earlier practices, and for understanding the decisive changes that occured during the nineteenth century.
Mid‐region pro‐adrenomedullin adds predictive value to clinical predictors and Framingham risk score for long‐term mortality in stable outpatients with heart failure
Authors: Xue Yang , Taub Pam , Iqbal Navaid , Fard Arrash , Clopton Paul , Maisel Alan
Published: July 2013

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long‐term prognostic utility of mid‐region prohormone adrenomedullin (MR‐proADM) in stable outpatients with heart failure (HF).

Methods and results

Echocardiogram and serum for MR‐proADM and BNP levels were obtained in 724 stable outpatients. These patients were followed for up to 6 years for the primary endpoint of all‐cause mortality. There were 198 stage A patients, 328 stage B patients, and 200 stage C/D patients, with an average age of 68 ± 12 years. There were 195 deaths during the 6‐year follow‐up period. MR‐proADM was predictive of mortality in the overall patient population. The predictive value of MR‐proADM for long‐term mortality was independent of BNP, echocardiographic indices of structural heart disease, clinical predictors of mortality, and the Framingham risk score. Patients with elevated MR‐proADM had significantly increased risk for mortality in stage A and stage C/D HF, with hazard ratio (HR) 3.780, P < 0.001 and HR 2.744, P < 0.001, respectively. There was a trend toward increased mortality in patients with elevated MR‐proADM and stage B HF (HR 1.579, P = 0.05005). MR‐proADM added incremental predictive value to clinical predictors and the Framingham risk score.

Conclusions

MR‐proADM was a potent independent predictor of long‐term all‐cause mortality in stable outpatients with stage A–D HF, especially in patients in stage A and stage C/D HF. MR‐proADM added incremental predictive value to clinical predictors and the Framingham risk score.
Salinity-Induced Calcium Signaling and Root Adaptation in Arabidopsis Require the Calcium Regulatory Protein Annexin1
Authors: Laohavisit Anuphon , Richards Siân L. , Shabala Lana , Chen Chen , Colaço Renato D.D.R. , Swarbreck Stéphanie M. , Shaw Emma , Dark Adeeba , Shabala Sergey , Shang Zhonglin , Davies Julia M.
Published: July 2013

Salinity (NaCl) stress impairs plant growth and inflicts severe crop losses. In roots, increasing extracellular NaCl causes Ca2+ influx to elevate cytosolic free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]cyt) as a second messenger for adaptive signaling. Amplification of the signal involves plasma membrane reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase activation, with the resultant reactive oxygen species triggering Ca2+ influx. The genetic identities of the Ca2+-permeable channels involved in generating the [Ca2+]cyt signal are unknown. Potential candidates in the model plant Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) include annexin1 (AtANN1). Here, luminescent detection of [Ca2+]cyt showed that AtANN1 responds to high extracellular NaCl by mediating reactive oxygen species-activated Ca2+ influx across the plasma membrane of root epidermal protoplasts. Electrophysiological analysis revealed that root epidermal plasma membrane Ca2+ influx currents activated by NaCl are absent from the Atann1 loss-of-function mutant. Both adaptive signaling and salt-responsive production of secondary roots are impaired in the loss-of-function mutant, thus identifying AtANN1 as a key component of root cell adaptation to salinity.
Opportunistic citizen science data of animal species produce reliable estimates of distribution trends if analysed with occupancy models
Authors: van Strien Arco J. , van Swaay Chris A.M. , Termaat Tim
Published: July 2013

Many publications documenting large‐scale trends in the distribution of species make use of opportunistic citizen data, that is, observations of species collected without standardized field protocol and without explicit sampling design. It is a challenge to achieve reliable estimates of distribution trends from them, because opportunistic citizen science data may suffer from changes in field efforts over time (observation bias), from incomplete and selective recording by observers (reporting bias) and from geographical bias. These, in addition to detection bias, may lead to spurious trends.

We investigated whether occupancy models can correct for the observation, reporting and detection biases in opportunistic data. Occupancy models use detection/nondetection data and yield estimates of the percentage of occupied sites (occupancy) per year. These models take the imperfect detection of species into account. By correcting for detection bias, they may simultaneously correct for observation and reporting bias as well. We compared trends in occupancy (or distribution) of butterfly and dragonfly species derived from opportunistic data with those derived from standardized monitoring data. All data came from the same grid squares and years, in order to avoid any geographical bias in this comparison.

Distribution trends in opportunistic and monitoring data were well‐matched. Strong trends observed in monitoring data were rarely missed in opportunistic data.

Synthesis and applications. Opportunistic data can be used for monitoring purposes if occupancy models are used for analysis. Occupancy models are able to control for the common biases encountered with opportunistic data, enabling species trends to be monitored for species groups and regions where it is not feasible to collect standardized data on a large scale. Opportunistic data may thus become an important source of information to track distribution trends in many groups of species.
Twitter: An Underutilized Potential during Sudden Crises?
Authors: Helsloot Ira , Groenendaal Jelle
Published: July 2013

The widespread use of Twitter by citizens during sudden crises has convinced communications experts that governments should also actively use Twitter during crises. However, this position seems insufficiently empirically validated. In this article, we want to provide empirical building blocks for an informed approach to the use of Twitter by the government. To this end, we analyze the tweets posted by citizens and governments about the large‐scale fire in Moerdijk (2011), the Netherlands. The results show that by far, most tweets do not contain any new and relevant information for governments and that the tweets posted by governments got buried under an avalanche of citizen tweets. We may conclude that the Moerdijk case does not give rise to advocate a (more) active role of governments on Twitter during sudden crises.
Complication rates of central compartment dissection in papillary thyroid cancer
Authors: Kwan Wai‐Yin Wilson , Chow Tam‐Lin , Choi Chi‐Yee , Lam Siu‐Ho
Published: July 2013

Background

The benefits of central compartment dissection (CCD) in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) are still debatable and should be weighed against its potential risks. We aim to compare the complication rates in total thyroidectomy with and without CCD for patients with PTC.

Methods

This is a retrospective study on prospectively collected data from our cancer registry over a 15‐year period. Patients with pathologically proven PTC treated with total thyroidectomy alone or with CCD were included. CCD was performed at the operating surgeon's discretion. A total of 105 patients were included and divided into two groups for analysis: group A – total thyroidectomy alone (51 patients, 49%) and group B – total thyroidectomy with CCD (54 patients, 51%). The operative complications between the two groups were then evaluated.

Results

Overall, 6.9% and 0.98% patients had transient and permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve palsies, respectively. About 19.0% and 2.9% patients had transient and permanent hypoparathyroidism, respectively and 27.6% patients had parathyroid glands found to be included in the resected specimen. Complication rates in terms of transient or permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy or hypoparathyroidism did not differ significantly between groups A and B. Within group B, 41 patients had unilateral CCD and 12 had bilateral CCD. Transient hypoparathyroidism was more frequent in bilateral CCD (50% versus 12.2%, P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Total thyroidectomy with prophylactic unilateral CCD is a safe procedure for PTC without added complication rates compared with total thyroidectomy alone. It is recommended for patients with PTC and clinically negative neck lymph nodes.
Bioequivalence of a new liquid formulation of benazepril compared with the reference tablet product
Authors: Kelers K , Devi JL , Anderson GA , Zahra P , Vine JH , Whittem T
Published: July 2013

Objective

To compare the bioequivalence and ‘switchability’ of two formulations of benazepril (tablet and liquid) after oral administration.

Design

Randomised cross‐over design, followed by parallel comparison.

Methods

Twelve mixed‐breed dogs were administered either a tablet (Group A) or liquid formulation (Group B) of benazepril orally at 0.45 mg/kg daily for 4 days. With no washout period, the dogs then received the alternative treatment at the same dose for a further 4 days. Blood samples taken prior to treatment and serially after treatment were analysed for plasma concentrations of benazepril and benazeprilat and the activity and concentration of angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE). The calculated percentage inhibition of ACE was defined as the primary outcome variable.

Results

No statistically significant differences were found between groups A and B for any variable evaluated. The mean (± SD) percentage of ACE inhibition was 85.5 ± 7.04% for the liquid formulation and 85.9 ± 6.66% for the tablet formulation. The mean of the ratios was 1.00 (80% confidence interval 0.96–1.04). No evaluated effect term (sequence, formulation or period) had any statistical effect on any outcome variable.

Conclusion

This study supports a conclusion that, based on pharmacodynamic response, the liquid formulation of benazepril is bioequivalent to the reference tablet formulation. Further, the lack of a sequence effect supports the switchability of these two formulations.
Exhaled nitric oxide predicts persistence of wheezing, exacerbations, and decline in lung function in wheezy infants and toddlers
Authors: Elliott M. , Heltshe S. L. , Stamey D. C. , Cochrane E. S. , Redding G. J. , Debley J. S.
Published: July 2013

Background

There are limited data assessing the predictive value of fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) for persistence of wheezing, exacerbations, or lung function change over time in infants/toddlers with recurrent wheezing.

Objectives

In an ongoing longitudinal cohort of infants and toddlers with recurrent wheezing, we compared predictive values of single‐breath FENO (SB‐FENO), tidal‐breathing mixed expired FENO (tidal‐FENO), bronchodilator responsiveness (BDR) and the Castro‐Rodriquez Asthma Predictive Index (API) for persistence of wheezing, exacerbations and lung function change through age 3 years.

Methods

Enrolment forced expiratory flows and volumes infant pulmonary function tests (iPFTs) were measured in 44 infants/toddlers using the raised volume rapid thoracoabdominal compression method. SB‐FENO was measured at 50 mL/s, and tidal‐FENO was measured during awake tidal breathing. Clinical outcomes were assessed at age 3 years in 42 infants. Follow‐up iPFTs were completed between ages 2.5–3 years in 32 subjects.

Results

An enrolment SB‐FENO concentration ≥ 30 p.p.b. predicted persistence of wheezing at age 3 years with a sensitivity of 77%, a specificity of 94%, and an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.86 (95% CI: 0.74–0.98). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive, and negative predictive values of SB‐FENO for persistence of wheezing and exacerbations were superior to tidal‐FENO, BDR, and the API. SB‐FENO ≥ 30 p.p.b. and tidal‐FENO ≥ 7 p.p.b. measured at enrolment was associated with a decline in both FEV0.5 and FEF25–75 between enrolment and age 3 years.

Conclusions

In wheezy infants/toddlers, SB‐FENO was superior to tidal‐FENO, BDR, and the API in predicting future exacerbations and persistence of wheezing at age 3 years. Both SB‐FENO and tidal‐FENO were associated with lung function decline over time.
Impaired presynaptic function and elimination of synapses at premature stages during postnatal development of the cerebellum in the absence of CALEB (CSPG5/neuroglycan C)
Authors: Jüttner René , Montag Dirk , Craveiro Rogerio B. , Babich Aleksei , Vetter Petra , Rathjen Fritz G.
Published: July 2013

Chicken acidic leucine‐rich EGF‐like domain‐containing brain protein (CALEB), also known as chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG)5 or neuroglycan C, is a neural chondroitin sulfate‐containing and epidermal growth factor (EGF)‐domain‐containing transmembrane protein that is implicated in synaptic maturation. Here, we studied the role of CALEB within the developing cerebellum. Adult CALEB‐deficient mice displayed impaired motor coordination in Rota‐Rod experiments. Analysis of the neuronal connectivity of Purkinje cells by patch‐clamp recordings demonstrated impairments of presynaptic maturation of inhibitory synapses. GABAergic synapses on Purkinje cells revealed decreased evoked amplitudes, altered paired‐pulse facilitation and reduced depression after repetitive stimulation at early postnatal but not at mature stages. Furthermore, the elimination of supernumerary climbing fiber synapses on Purkinje cells was found to occur at earlier developmental stages in the absence of CALEB. For example, at postnatal day 8 in wild‐type mice, 54% of Purkinje cells had three or more climbing fiber synapses in contrast to mutants where this number was decreased to less than 25%. The basic properties of the climbing fiber Purkinje cell synapse remained unaffected. Using Sholl analysis of dye‐injected Purkinje cells we revealed that the branching pattern of the dendritic tree of Purkinje cells was not impaired in CALEB‐deficient mice. The alterations observed by patch‐clamp recordings correlated with a specific pattern and timing of expression of CALEB in Purkinje cells, i.e. it is dynamically regulated during development from a high chondroitin sulfate‐containing form to a non‐chondroitin sulfate‐containing form. Thus, our results demonstrated an involvement of CALEB in the presynaptic differentiation of cerebellar GABAergic synapses and revealed a new role for CALEB in synapse elimination in Purkinje cells.
The shaping of genetic variation in edge‐of‐range populations under past and future climate change
Authors: Razgour Orly , Juste Javier , Ibáñez Carlos , Kiefer Andreas , Rebelo Hugo , Puechmaille Sébastien J. , Arlettaz Raphael , Burke Terry , Dawson Deborah A. , Beaumont Mark , Jones Gareth
Published: July 2013

With rates of climate change exceeding the rate at which many species are able to shift their range or adapt, it is important to understand how future changes are likely to affect biodiversity at all levels of organisation. Understanding past responses and extent of niche conservatism in climatic tolerance can help predict future consequences. We use an integrated approach to determine the genetic consequences of past and future climate changes on a bat species, Plecotus austriacus. Glacial refugia predicted by palaeo‐modelling match those identified from analyses of extant genetic diversity and model‐based inference of demographic history. Former refugial populations currently contain disproportionately high genetic diversity, but niche conservatism, shifts in suitable areas and barriers to migration mean that these hotspots of genetic diversity are under threat from future climate change. Evidence of population decline despite recent northward migration highlights the need to conserve leading‐edge populations for spearheading future range shifts.
Trend mining in social networks: from trend identification to visualization
Authors: Nohuddin Puteri N. E. , Sunayama Wataru , Christley Rob , Coenen Frans , Setzkorn Christian
Published: July 2013

A four‐stage social network trend mining framework, the Identification, Grouping, Clustering and Visualization framework, is described. The framework extracts trends from social network data and then applies a sequence of techniques (‘tools’) to this data to facilitate interpretation of the identified trends. Of particular note is the visualization of trend migrations (changes) that feature within time‐stamped network data. The framework is illustrated using a sequence of four social networks extracted from the Cattle Tracing System in operation in Great Britain, although it could equally well be applied to other forms of temporal data. The presented analysis of the Identification, Grouping, Clustering and Visualization framework indicates advantages, with respect to network trend mining, that can be gained, especially when the framework is applied to real data.
Integrating telemetry with a predictive model to assess habitat preferences and juvenile survival in an endangered freshwater turtle
Authors: Micheli‐Campbell Mariana A. , Campbell Hamish A. , Connell Marilyn , Dwyer Ross G. , Franklin Craig E.
Published: July 2013

The introduction of predators and habitat destruction is leading to a worldwide decline in freshwater turtles. Here, we assessed the preferred habitat and the predation rates for juveniles of the endangered Mary River turtle (Elusor macrurus).

Juvenile turtles were fitted with miniaturised transmitters and located accurately over a 21‐day period. Water depth and velocity were measured at each locality, and the data used to populate a predictive distribution model (ecological niche factor analysis – ENFA – with Mahalanobis distances). The model showed that the juvenile turtles preferred areas of shallow, slow‐flowing water near riffles. Extrapolation of the model throughout the entire river trunk identified a further 49 discrete locations that possessed the environmental characteristics preferred by the juvenile turtles.

A further 12 juveniles were released with long‐life (9 months) acoustic transmitters, and static underwater receivers were deployed to continuously record the presence and absence of turtles. The passive telemetry results supported the ENFA model and also suggested a 50% predation rate of the juvenile turtles over 9 months. Half of the predated turtles were probably taken by fish, whilst the other half were taken by a bird or mammal predator (inferred by changes in the movement of the attached transmitters).

Combining telemetry with a predictive distribution model showed where juvenile E. macrurus are likely to be found and the riverine features that require preservation to conserve the species.
Influence of immunohistochemistry on the final diagnosis of breast biopsies
Authors: Trocchi Pietro , Holzhausen Hans‐Jürgen , Böcker Werner , Schmidt‐Pokrzywniak Andrea , Ruschke Kathrin , Thomssen Christoph , Löning Thomas , Kluttig Alexander , Stang Andreas
Published: July 2013

Aims

Because of the introduction of mammography screening programmes in Europe, the number of breast biopsies performed is increasing. We investigated the influence of immunohistochemistry (IHC) on the final diagnosis of breast biopsies by comparing the primary diagnoses (based on the results of haematoxylin and eosin staining only) with the final diagnoses (based on the additional information provided by IHC).

Methods and results

We analysed the breast biopsies which were performed at the University of Halle‐Wittenberg between 2006 and 2010 and for which the pathologist requested IHC for making the final diagnosis. According to the B‐categorization scheme, the primary diagnosis changed in 37 of a total of 429 biopsies (8.6%). In 18 of these biopsies (48.6%) the category changed from B1–B2 to B3–B5 or vice versa, which would imply a different work‐up. Only 77% of the primary diagnoses of breast cancer in situ were confirmed.

Conclusion

IHC has a considerable influence on the final diagnosis of breast biopsies in several situations, including those in which the biopsied women are at risk of inadequate therapeutic intervention. The influence is particularly notable among those biopsies for which IHC is performed in order to assess the suspicion of breast cancer in situ.
SOLVENCY ANALYSIS AND PREDICTION IN PROPERTY–CASUALTY INSURANCE: INCORPORATING ECONOMIC AND MARKET PREDICTORS
Authors: Zhang Li , Nielson Norma
Published: July 2013

This article extends the insolvency prediction literature by incorporating macroeconomic conditions and state‐specific factors. The models achieve greater generalizability and predictive accuracy than earlier research while giving fewer false positives. At the firm level, we find insurers with less diversified business, sufficient cash flow, high return on equity, lower leverage, fewer failed Insurance Regulatory Information System ratio tests, and membership in a larger group are less likely to become insolvent. Our findings support the argument that insolvency likelihood increases for insurers domiciled in states with stricter solvency supervision and/or states with less favorable insurance market conditions, and during soft markets; insolvency risk is negatively related to the slope of the yield curve. Our findings also imply that insurers respond efficiently to changes in such market factors as market return, inflation, and catastrophic losses.
The Life Care Annuity: A New Empirical Examination of an Insurance Innovation That Addresses Problems in the Markets for Life Annuities and Long‐Term Care Insurance
Authors: Brown Jason , Warshawsky Mark
Published: July 2013

ABSTRACT

The life care annuity—the integration of the life annuity with long‐term care insurance coverage—is intended to deal with major problems in the currently separate markets for life annuities and long‐term care insurance. The integration would allow the inclusion of most of the population currently rejected by underwriting—those in poor health or lifestyles but who would not go immediately into long‐term care claim—who also have lower life expectancies. We make use of the Health and Retirement Study, on individuals in retirement and their disability incidence, exploiting the panel nature of the survey to estimate transition probabilities in and out of disability states according to numerous demographic and health characteristics. This allows for analysis of disability and mortality risk across a number of dimensions. We find that different risk groups at age 65 have similar projected long‐term care expenses, but that the level‐periodic‐premium structure of most long‐term care insurance policies creates incentives for individuals to separate into different risk pools according to observable characteristics, justifying the underwriting observed on the market. Yet we also find that gender‐rated life care annuities could succeed in pooling risks currently segmented in the market for long‐term care insurance, thus qualifying individuals at or near retirement for permanent long‐term care insurance coverage who do not currently qualify, and allowing for life annuities to be purchased more cheaply than in the stand‐alone annuity market now subject to adverse selection.
The Observed Witness Efficacy Scale: a measure of effective testimony skills
Authors: Cramer Robert J. , DeCoster Jamie , Neal Tess M. S. , Brodsky Stanley L.
Published: July 2013

Despite advances in the scientific methodology of witness testimony research, no sound measure currently exists to evaluate perceptions of testimony skills. Drawing on self‐efficacy and witness preparation research, the present study describes development of the Observed Witness Efficacy Scale (OWES). Factor analyses of a mock jury sample yielded a two‐factor structure (poise and communication style) consistent with previous research on witness self‐ratings of testimony delivery skills. OWES subscales showed differential patterns of association with witness credibility, witness believability, agreement with the witness, and verdict decision. Juror gender moderated the impact of communication style, but not poise, on belief of and agreement with the witness. Results are discussed with attention to application of the OWES to witness research and preparation training.
I don't believe but I pray: spirituality, instrumentality, or paranormal belief?
Authors: Shiah Yung‐Jong , Chang France , Tam Wai‐Cheong Carl , Chuang Shen‐Fa , Yeh Lun‐Chang
Published: July 2013

These three studies are among the first to systematically compare five Chinese religious groups on intrinsic (spiritual) and extrinsic (instrumental and paranormal) orientation. In Study 1, a Chinese version of the Index of Core Spiritual Experiences was developed. In Studies 2 and 3, spirituality and religious involvement was found to be greatest among Christians, followed in order by Buddhists, Taoists, traditional nones, and other nones. An instrumental purpose for religious activities and paranormal belief was found to be highest among Taoists, followed in order by Buddhists, traditional nones, other nones, and Christians. The results are consistent with the conclusion that Christianity offers the least support for an extrinsic religious orientation and the most support for an intrinsic religious orientation.
Threshold analysis of reimbursing physicians for the application of fluoride varnish in young children
Authors: Hendrix Kristin S. , Downs Stephen M. , Brophy Ginger , Carney Doebbeling Caroline , Swigonski Nancy L.
Published: July 2013

Objective

Most state Medicaid programs reimburse physicians for providing fluoride varnish, yet the only published studies of cost‐effectiveness do not show cost‐savings. Our objective is to apply state‐specific claims data to an existing published model to quickly and inexpensively estimate the cost‐savings of a policy consideration to better inform decisions – specifically, to assess whetherIndianaMedicaid children's restorative service rates met the threshold to generate cost‐savings.

Methods

Threshold analysis was based on the 2006 model byQuiñonezet al. Simple calculations were used to “align” the Indiana Medicaid data with the published model.Quarterly likelihoods that a child would receive treatment for caries were annualized. The probability of a tooth developing a cavitated lesion was multiplied by the probability of using restorative services. Finally, this rate of restorative services given cavitation was multiplied by 1.5 to generate the threshold to attain cost‐savings. Restorative services utilization rates, extrapolated from availableIndianaMedicaid claims, were compared with these thresholds.

Results

For children 1‐2 years old, restorative services utilization was 2.6 percent, which was below the 5.8 percent threshold for cost‐savings. However, for children 3‐5 years of age, restorative services utilization was 23.3 percent, exceeding the 14.5 percent threshold that suggests cost‐savings.

Conclusions

Combining a published model with state‐specific data, we were able to quickly and inexpensively demonstrate that restorative service utilization rates for children 36 months and older in Indiana are high enough that fluoride varnish regularly applied by physicians to children starting at 9 months of age could save Medicaid funds over a 3‐year horizon.
Primary cutaneous follicle centre lymphoma in the head and neck: don't judge a lump by its presentation
Authors: Yates J.M. , Bolt R. , Nahabedian V. , Fernando M. , Hunter K.D.
Published: July 2013

Isolated swellings within the head and neck region are common phenomena, with the majority being readily diagnosed and appropriately managed. While history alone will often assist in arriving at a correct diagnosis, discrepancies and inconsistencies in the clinical picture should act as a prompt for the clinician to consider the prospect of having encountered less common pathology. We report a case of an unusual supra‐orbital swelling where the history, clinical findings and initial investigations masked a rare diagnosis. The differential diagnoses for this case principally included haematoma, infection and cutaneous cyst. However, following a period of review with no improvement in either symptoms or objective clinical measures, incisional biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of primary cutaneous follicle centre lymphoma. Management thereafter involved referral for lymphoma specialist assessment, with subsequent investigation to establish the level of locoregional and/or systemic involvement and the initiation of appropriate radiotherapy.
Identification and characterization of seedling and adult plant resistance to Puccinia hordei in Chinese barley germplasm
Authors: Derevnina Lida , Singh Davinder , Park Robert F.
Published: July 2013

Leaf rust of barley, caused by Puccinia hordei, occurs in all barley‐growing regions of Australia causing significant yield losses under epidemic conditions. The development and use of resistant cultivars are the most economical and environmentally sustainable method to control leaf rust which in turn relies on ongoing efforts to identify and characterize new sources of resistance. The aim of this study was to postulate known genes and/or identify new sources of resistance to P. hordei. Fifty‐two genotypes were assessed at the seedling and adult plant growth stages. On the basis of multipathotype tests, 39 genotypes lacked detectable seedling resistance, and nine were postulated to carry the genes Rph2, Rph4, Rph12 and Rph19 singly. Four genotypes carried uncharacterized seedling resistance; however, the gene(s) present in each were ineffective to at least one of the pathotypes used. Field tests at the adult plant growth stage revealed the presence of adult plant resistance (APR) in 12 genotypes. Tests of allelism and marker analysis indicated that resistance genes present in these genotypes were independent of the APR gene Rph20.
Development of microsatellite markers in sweet passion fruit, and identification of length and conformation polymorphisms within repeat sequences
Authors: Penha Helen Alves , Pereira Guilherme Da Silva , Zucchi Maria Imaculada , Diniz Augusto Lima , Vieira Maria Lucia Carneiro
Published: July 2013

The aim of this study was to construct and characterize an SSR‐enriched genomic library for Passiflora alata, a fruit species native to the Brazilian plateau and the eastern Amazon region. There is potential to improve this crop, as the fruit is attractive because of its pleasant aroma and flavour characteristics. Of 862 sequences, 391 (45%) were found to have SSRs. We identified 412 microsatellites: 69% were classified as perfect, 23% imperfect, 5% interrupted and 3% were compound microsatellites. The main types of repeat sequences were dinucleotide (62.5%) and trinucleotide (23%) repeats. It was possible to design 312 primer pairs, and 229 of them were synthesized and tested. The amplicons were electrophoresed using denaturing and non‐denaturing gels to screen for divergence between two phenotypically distinct parents of a mapping population of P. alata. Length and conformation polymorphisms within repeat sequences amounted to 35% and 28%, respectively. The importance of the development of SSR markers for sweet passion fruit and the effectiveness of the SSCP approach to increase the available number of polymorphic SSRs are discussed.
Pediatric Teledermatology Consultations: Relationship Between Provided Data and Diagnosis
Authors: Philp Julie C. , Frieden Ilona J. , Cordoro Kelly M.
Published: July 2013

There is a shortage of pediatric dermatologists. Teledermatology has emerged as a tool to facilitate access to dermatologists. Many questions remain regarding how to optimize consultations in order to provide the best diagnosis and management recommendations. The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to categorize the historical data and judge the adequacy of photographs sent by referring providers to our academic pediatric teledermatology practice at the University of California, San Francisco, and to evaluate the relationship of these data to our ability to render a diagnosis. A diagnosis was rendered in 75% of cases. The only historical data associated with receiving a diagnosis was prior treatment (OR 2.01, CI 1.01, 4, p < 0.05). Appropriate image distance from the target was associated with receiving a diagnosis for rashes (OR 2.69, CI 1.07, 6.8, p = 0.04) and growths (OR 4.16, CI 1.04, 16.6, p = 0.04). A lack of diagnosis was significantly associated with a recommendation for referral for biopsy (OR 0.03, CI 0.01, 0.10, p < 0.0001) or for in‐person consultation (OR 0.19, CI 0.05, 0.66, p < 0.001). In conclusion, pediatric teledermatologists are able to make a diagnosis most of the time, regardless of historical information provided or image quality. The rate of diagnosis may be improved with the use of standardized templates for historical information. Similarly, photography training could minimize the need for in‐person consultation. Specific information regarding prior treatments could also help in providing useful management recommendations.
Regression Analysis and the Sociological Imagination
Authors: De Maio Fernando
Published: July 2013

Regression analysis is an important aspect of most introductory statistics courses in sociology but is often presented in contexts divorced from the central concerns that bring students into the discipline. Consequently, we present five lesson ideas that emerge from a regression analysis of income inequality and mortality in the USA and Canada.
MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING CONTRAST ENHANCEMENT OF EXTRA‐OCULAR MUSCLES IN DOGS WITH NO CLINICAL EVIDENCE OF ORBITAL DISEASE
Authors: Joslyn Stephen , Richards Suzanna , Boroffka Susanne , Mitchell Mark , Hammond Gawain , Sullivan Martin
Published: July 2013

Enhancement of extra‐ocular muscles has been reported in cases of orbital pathology in both veterinary and medical magnetic resonance imaging. We have also observed this finding in the absence of orbital disease. The purpose of this retrospective study was to describe extra‐ocular muscle contrast enhancement characteristics in a group of dogs with no known orbital disease. Magnetic resonance images (MRI) from dogs with no clinical evidence of orbital disease and a reportedly normal MRI study were retrieved and reviewed. Contrast enhancement percentages of the medial, lateral, ventral, and dorsal rectus muscles were calculated based on signal‐to‐noise ratios that were in turn determined from hand‐traced regions of interest in precontrast, immediate postcontrast and 10‐min postcontrast scans. Comparison measurements were made in the pterygoid muscle. Contrast enhancement of the extra‐ocular muscles was observed in all patients (median contrast enhancement percentage 45.0%) and was greater than that of pterygoid muscle (median contrast enhancement percentage 22.7%). Enhancement of the extra‐ocular muscles persisted 10 min after contrast administration (median contrast enhancement percentage 43.4%). Findings indicated that MRI contrast enhancement of extra‐ocular muscles is likely normal in dogs.
Pool Boiling Heat Transfer of Borated (H3BO3) Water on a Nanoporous Surface
Authors: Amaya Miguel , Kwark Sang M. , Gurung Ajay , You Seung M.
Published: July 2013

With regard to potential application in pressurized water reactors (PWRs), a nanoporous heated surface was tested in pool boiling of an aqueous solution of boric acid (H3BO3), or borated water (1% volume concentration). The effect of system pressure and surface orientation on pool boiling heat transfer (BHT) was studied. The nanoporous surface consisted of a coating of alumina nanoparticles applied on a 1 cm2 flat copper surface through nanofluid boiling. An uncoated surface in borated water was similarly tested, and due to boric acid deposition, the BHT degraded and the critical heat flux (CHF) enhanced relative to pure water. Also, the possibility of transient pool boiling behavior of borated water was investigated but none was detected. With pressure and orientation variation, the nanoporous surface imposed on borated water showed a trend of further CHF enhancement to the CHF limit produced by the nanoporous surface in pure water. Over the nanoporous surface, the CHF of borated water was increasingly better with decreasing pressure, than that over the plain surface. However, BHT degraded slightly further. Boric acid deposition over the nanoporous surface was believed to be the source of this BHT degradation, but played no apparent role in the further CHF enhancement.
Thermophysical Properties and Pool Boiling Characteristics of Water-in-Polyalphaolefin Nanoemulsion Fluids
Authors: Xu Jiajun , Yang Bao , Hammouda Boualem
Published: July 2013

In this work, thermophysical properties, microstructure, and pool boiling characteristics of water-in-polyalphaolefin (PAO) nanoemulsion fluids have been measured in the water concentration range of 0–10.3 vol. %, in order to gain basic data for nanoemulsion boiling. Water-in-PAO nanoemulsion fluids are formed via self-assembly with surfactant: sodium sullfosuccinate (AOT). Thermal conductivity of these fluids is found to increase monotonically with water concentration, as expected from the Maxwell equation. Unlike thermal conductivity, their dynamic viscosity first increases with water concentration, reaches a maximum at 5.3 vol. %, and then decreases. The observed maximum viscosity could be attributed to the attractive forces among water droplets. The microstructures of the water-in-PAO nanoemulsion fluids are measured via the small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) technique, which shows a transition from sphere to elongated cylinder when the water concentration increases above 5.3 vol. %. The pool boiling heat transfer of these water-in-PAO nanoemulsion fluids is measured on a horizontal Pt wire at room temperature (25 °C, subcooled condition). One interesting phenomenon observed is that the pool boiling follows two different curves randomly when the water concentration is in the range of 5.3 vol. % to 7.8 vol. %.
Study of Liquid-Metal Based Heating Method for Temperature Gradient Focusing Purpose
Authors: Gao M. , Gui L. , Liu J.
Published: July 2013

Temperature gradient focusing (TGF) is a highly efficient focusing technique for the concentration and separation of charged analytes in microfluidic channels. The design of an appropriate temperature gradient is very important for the focusing efficiency. In this study, we proposed a new technique to generate the temperature gradient. This technique utilizes a microchannel filled with liquid-metal as an electrical heater in a microfluidic chip. By applying an electric current, the liquid-metal heater generates Joule heat, forming the temperature gradient in the microchannel. To optimize the temperature gradient and find out the optimal design for the TGF chip, numerical simulations on four typical designs were studied. The results showed that design 1 can provide a best focusing method, which has the largest temperature gradient. For this best design, the temperature is almost linearly distributed along the focusing microchannel. The numerical simulations were then validated both theoretically and experimentally. The following experiment and theoretical analysis on the best design also provide a useful guidance for designing and fabricating the liquid-metal based TGF microchip.
Statistical Analysis of Surface Nanopatterned Thin Film Solar Cells Obtained by Inverse Optimization
Authors: Hajimirza Shima , Howell John R.
Published: July 2013

This work is a statistical study of the broadband light absorption in thin film solar cells, enhanced by metallic surface nanotexturing. We consider optimum grating structures on the surface of amorphous silicon solar cells obtained by inverse optimization, and study the joint statistics of the resulting absorption enhancement/spectra in the presence of time and structural variants, such as fabrication error and year around changes in the solar irradiance, as well as the angle of incident. We adopt yearly data for solar irradiation at individual hours. In conjunction with the data for light absorption spectra at various incident angles and random samples of the fabrication error vector, we evaluate the real world performance of optimized solar cells. The resulting conclusions serve as a sensitivity/time analysis for better understanding the limits of performance and robustness of thin film cells and optimal light trapping mechanisms.
Noncanonical Inflammasome Activation by Intracellular LPS Independent of TLR4
Authors: Kayagaki Nobuhiko , Wong Michael T. , Stowe Irma B. , Ramani Sree Ranjani , Gonzalez Lino C. , Akashi-Takamura Sachiko , Miyake Kensuke , Zhang Juan , Lee Wyne P. , Muszyński Artur , Forsberg Lennart S. , Carlson Russell W. , Dixit Vishva M.
Published: July 2013

Move Over, TLR4

The innate immune system senses bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) through Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) (see the Perspective by

Kagan

). However,

Kayagaki
et al.

(p
1246
, published online 25 July) and

Hagar
et al.

(p.
1250
) report that the hexa-acyl lipid A component of LPS from Gramnegative bacteria is able to access the cytoplasm and activate caspase-11 to signal immune responses independently of TLR4. Mice that lack caspase-11 are resistant to LPS-induced lethality, even in the presence of TLR4.
Draft Genome Sequence of Gluconobacter frateurii NBRC 103465, a Glyceric Acid-Producing Strain
Authors: Sato Shun , Umemura Maiko , Koike Hideaki , Habe Hiroshi
Published: July 2013

Gluconobacter frateurii
strain NBRC 103465 can efficiently produce glyceric acid (GA) from raw glycerol feedstock derived from biodiesel fuel production processes. Here, we report the 3.4-Mb draft genome sequence of
G. frateurii
NBRC 103465. The draft genome sequence can be applied to examine the enzymes and electron transport system involved in GA production.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Polyextremophilic
Exiguobacterium
sp. Strain S17, Isolated from Hyperarsenic Lakes in the Argentinian Puna
Authors: Ordoñez Omar F. , Lanzarotti Esteban , Kurth Daniel , Gorriti Marta F. , Revale Santiago , Cortez Néstor , Vazquez Martin P. , Farías María E. , Turjanski Adrian G.
Published: July 2013

Exiguobacterium
sp. strain S17 is a moderately halotolerant, arsenic-resistant bacterium that was isolated from Laguna Socompa stromatolites in the Argentinian Puna. The draft genome sequence suggests potent enzyme candidates that are essential for survival under multiple environmental extreme conditions, such as high levels of UV radiation, elevated salinity, and the presence of critical arsenic concentrations.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Novel Deletion Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus Strain
Authors: Shen Junying , Yan Xing , Dong Jianming , Jiang Yunbo , Fang Liurong , Xiao Shaobo , Chen Huanchun
Published: July 2013

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus HZ-31 strain is different from any other previously sequenced porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus strains. It contains a 59-amino acid (aa) discontinuous deletion in aa 467 to 474, aa 498 to 519, and aa 533 to 561 of
nsp2
. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of this novel Chinese virulent PRRSV variant.
Genome Sequence of Bacillus subtilis SPZ1, an Evolved Strain for Higher Uptake Rate of Tributyrin
Authors: Song Ping , Xu Xian , Jiang Ling , Zhang Renchuang , Wang Jing , Xu Qing , Li Shuang
Published: July 2013

The lipase-producing strain
Bacillus subtilis
SPZ1 is isolated from the medium by tributyrin as the sole carbon source. Here, we present a 4.13-Mb assembly of its genome sequence, which may provide various kinds of useful information related to
Bacillus
spp., such as mechanisms and control of the substrate uptake and protein secretion pathways.
Genome Assembly of Citrus Leprosis Virus Nuclear Type Reveals a Close Association with Orchid Fleck Virus
Authors: Roy Avijit , Stone Andrew , Otero-Colina Gabriel , Wei Gang , Choudhary Nandlal , Achor Diann , Shao Jonathan , Levy Laurene , Nakhla Mark K. , Hollingsworth Charla R. , Hartung John S. , Schneider William L. , Brlansky Ronald H.
Published: July 2013

The complete genome of citrus leprosis virus nuclear type (CiLV-N) was identified by small RNA sequencing utilizing leprosis-affected citrus samples collected from the state of Querétaro, Mexico. The nucleotide identity and phylogenetic analysis indicate that CiLV-N is very closely related to orchid fleck virus, which typically infects
Cymbidium
species.
Ischaemic diverticular disease may mimic acute appendicitis
Authors: Gallagher Kara Lee
Published: July 2013

An 81-year-old man with a medical history significant for diverticulosis and irritable bowel syndrome presented to the emergency department with a 1-day history of periumbilical pain that woke him from sleep and ultimately localised to his right lower quadrant. He reported nausea, anorexia and chills but denied vomiting, diarrhoea, melena, hematochezia or fever. His physical exam was notable for focal tenderness at McBurney's point. Diagnostic information included a normal white blood cell count and an abdominal CT scan that demonstrated a normal appendix with no other pathology noted. The patient opted to proceed with laparoscopy where a normal appendix was found. The caecum, however, contained a large ischaemic diverticulum not noted on CT scan. Following laparoscopic ileocecectomy, pathology demonstrated haemorrhage, inflammation, oedema and full thickness necrosis of the caecal wall. Recovery was uneventful; the patient was discharged from the hospital 3 days following surgery.
Successful treatment of mobile right atrial thrombus and acute pulmonary embolism with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator
Authors: Bajaj R , Ramanakumar Ajay , Mamidala Suresh , Kumar Deepti
Published: July 2013

An 89-year-old woman came with symptoms of progressively worsening dyspnoea at rest over the preceding week. She was normotensive, had elevated jugular venous pressure and clear lungs. ECG revealed atrial fibrillation with the rapid ventricular rate. Labs were significant for markedly elevated pro-brain natriuretic peptide of 43 000 pg/mL and troponin-T of 1 ng/mL. An urgent 2D echocardiogram was obtained, which revealed the severely dilated right atrium and a large linear mobile mass in the right atrium consistent with a thrombus. An emergent CT scan revealed multiple bilateral pulmonary emboli. She received intravenous tissue plasminogen activator. Repeat echocardiogram performed 6 h later showed no evidence of the right atrial thrombus. She was subsequently maintained on intravenous heparin and transitioned to Coumadin. Early recognition of this rare but potentially fatal complication is important as prompt treatment measures can help in preventing life-threatening complications of the right atrial thrombus.