bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nasal lavage VEGF and TNF‐α levels during a natural cold predict asthma exacerbations
Authors: Manthei D. M. , Schwantes E. A. , Mathur S. K. , Guadarrama A. G. , Kelly E. A. , Gern J. E. , Jarjour N. N. , Denlinger L. C.
Published: August 2014

Background

Asthma exacerbations contribute to significant morbidity, mortality and healthcare utilization. Furthermore, viral infections are associated with asthma exacerbations by mechanisms that are not fully understood.

Objective

The aim of this analysis was to determine whether cytokine patterns in patients with colds could identify risks for subsequent asthma exacerbations.

Methods

We analysed cytokine levels in nasal lavage fluid (NLF) in 59 subjects (46 with asthma) with acute upper respiratory symptoms and after symptomatic resolution. Analyte choice was based on potential relevance to asthma exacerbations: antiviral (IFN‐α, IFN‐β, IFN‐γ, IFN‐λ1, IP‐10, TRAIL), cell recruiting (G‐CSF, IL‐1β, IL‐8, MCP‐1, MCP‐3, TNF‐α), polarizing (CXCL13, IL‐10, IL‐13, IL‐17, TSLP), and injury remodelling (fibronectin, IL‐33, MMP‐9, VEGF).

Results

The overall cytokine response induced during viral infections was not different between asthmatic and non‐asthmatic individuals for a wide array of cytokines. However, mean levels of VEGF, TNF‐α and IL‐1β were 1.7‐, 5.1‐ and 4.7‐fold higher in samples from asthma subjects who exacerbated in the first 3 weeks of the cold compared with those who did not exacerbate (P = 0.006, 0.01, 0.048, respectively). Using receiver operating characteristic curve‐defined thresholds, high VEGF and TNF‐α levels predicted a shorter time‐to‐exacerbation after NLF sampling (25% exacerbation rate: 3 vs. 45 days, and 3 vs. 26 days; P = 0.03, 0.04, respectively).

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

Although they produce similar cytokine responses to viral infection as non‐asthmatics, asthmatics with higher levels of VEGF and TNF‐α in NLF obtained during acute cold phases predicted subsequent asthma exacerbations in this cohort of patients with mild‐to‐moderate disease. In the future, stratifying the risk of an asthma exacerbation by cytokine profile may aid the targeting of personalized treatment and intervention strategies.
Plasma miRNAs might be promising biomarkers of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Wang Maoyun , Huang Yuchuan , Liang Zong'an , Liu Dan , Lu Yanrong , Dai Ya , Feng Guanglin , Wang Changguo
Published: August 2014

Background and Aims

We previously showed that microRNAs (miRNAs) in plasma are potential biomarkers for cigarette smoking‐related lung fibrosis. Here, we want to find out promising miRNAs for early detection of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods and Results

Plasma miRNAs profiling was performed in COPD patients, asthma patients, and matched healthy controls. There was a >2‐fold changes for all signature miRNAs between the COPD and control samples, with P values of < 0.05. Pathway analysis, taking into account enriched target mRNAs for these signature miRNAs, was also carried out. We found seven miRNAs were special expression in the COPD patients. Furthermore, changes of miR‐145‐5p, miR‐338‐3p and miR‐3620‐3p were consistent with the classification of new ABCD classification of COPD. Targeted gene promising proved those miRNAs acted in inflammatory mediators, regulation of proliferation and differentiation, oxidative stress and so on.

Conclusions

These results suggested that plasma miRNAs could be potential specific biomarker for early detection COPD.
Comparing transplant glomerulopathy in the absence of C4d deposition and donor‐specific antibodies to chronic antibody‐mediated rejection
Authors: Torres Irina B. , Salcedo Maite , Moreso Francesc , Sellarés Joana , Castellá Eva , Azancot M. Antonieta , Perelló Manel , Cantarell Carme , Serón Daniel
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Transplant glomerulopathy (TG) is the characteristic lesion of chronic antibody‐mediated rejection (AMR). However, in some patients presents with no circulating HLA antibodies or C4d positivity.

Aim

Patients with TG accomplishing criteria for chronic AMR were compared to patients with isolated TG.

Patients and Methods

We reviewed late (>6 months) graft biopsies performed between 2007 and 2010 (n = 75). Biopsies with C4d‐negative TG and no circulating donor‐specific antibody were called isolated TG (n = 12), and chronic AMR was defined according to Banff consensus (n = 17). HLA antibodies were evaluated by Luminex technology. Immunohistochemistry was performed to quantify graft infiltrating cells.

Results

Patients with isolated TG were older (52 ± 14 vs. 35 ± 14; p = 0.0048), received grafts from older donors (54 ± 16 vs. 41 ± 18; p = 0.0554), and displayed a lower inflammation in the glomerular (g‐score: 0.5 ± 0.5 vs. 1.0 ± 0.9; p = 0.0865; CD3 positive cells/glomeruli: 1.5 ± 2.9 vs. 4.4 ± 4.1; p = 0.0147), interstitial (i‐score: 1.2 ± 0.9 vs. 1.9 ± 1.0; p = 0.0685; CD45 positive cells/hpf: 18 ± 11 vs. 57 ± 68; p = 0.0132), and peritubular capillary (ptc‐score 0.2 ± 0.6 vs. 1.1 ± 0.9; p = 0.0089; CD45 positive cells/hpf: 3.7 ± 3.1 vs. 10.1 ± 7.4; p = 0.0290) compartments. Fifteen grafts were lost and graft survival was significantly lower in patients with chronic AMR (p = 0.0122).

Conclusion

Isolated TG is associated with less severe allograft inflammation and with a better outcome than chronic AMR.
International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Core Sets for children and youth with cerebral palsy: a consensus meeting
Authors: Schiariti Veronica , Selb Melissa , Cieza Alarcos , O'Donnell Maureen
Published: August 2014

Aim

The objective of this article is to report on the Core Sets developed for children and youth aged 0 to 18 years, with cerebral palsy (CP) based on the pediatric International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Method

A formal decision‐making and consensus process integrating evidence gathered from preparatory studies was followed. Preparatory studies included: a systematic literature review; an international expert survey; a qualitative study of children and youth with CP and their caregivers; and a clinical study. Relevant ICF categories were identified in a formal consensus process by international experts from different backgrounds. Twenty‐six international experts chosen by WHO region with expertise in CP attended the consensus meeting.

Results

Overall, five ICF Core Sets were developed: a Comprehensive Core Set (135 ICF categories); a Common Brief (25 ICF categories); and three age‐specific Core Sets: under 6 years (31 ICF categories), from 6 to <14 years (35 ICF categories) and from 14 to 18 years (37 ICF categories).

Interpretation

These ICF Core Sets for children and youth with CP are the first ICF‐based tools developed for this population. The ICF Core Sets for children and youth with CP can be applied in clinical practice, research, teaching and administration. The application of the ICF Core Sets to this population will standardize the functional assessments of CP worldwide.
Growth and inequality in the great and little divergence debate: aJapanese perspective
Authors: Saito Osamu
Published: August 2014

This article addresses the question of growth and inequality in the great and little divergence trajectories on both sides ofEurasia. A social table constructed for TokugawaJapan in the 1840s is compared with two cases with high levels of inequality,StuartEngland andMughalIndia, and the subsequent changes in the three countries are traced to the modern era of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The Japanese pattern in the early modern period can be characterized by comparatively modest growth with a relatively egalitarian distribution of income between the social classes, but the pattern changed during the subsequent half‐century to one with an increased tempo of growth and a substantial rise in the level of income inequality. The implications of this finding are discussed in terms of the concept of Smithian growth and are placed in the comparative context of the divergence debate.
Toothbrushing after an erosive attack: will waiting avoid tooth wear?
Authors: Lussi Adrian , Lussi Jonas , Carvalho Thiago S. , Cvikl Barbara
Published: August 2014

The purpose of this study was to determine if storage for up to 4 h in human saliva results in a decrease of erosive tooth wear (ETW) and in an increase of surface microhardness (SMH) of enamel samples after an erosive attack with subsequent abrasion. Furthermore, we determined the impact of individual salivary parameters on ETW and SMH. Enamel samples were distributed into five groups: group 1 had neither erosion nor saliva treatment; groups 2–5 were treated with erosion, then group 2 was placed in a humid chamber and groups 3–5 were incubated in saliva for 30 min, 2 h, and 4 h, respectively. After erosion and saliva treatments, all groups were treated with abrasion. Surface microhardness and ETW were measured before and after erosion, incubation in saliva, and abrasion. Surface microhardness and ETW showed significant changes throughout the experiment: SMH decreased and ETW increased in groups 2–5, regardless of the length of incubation in saliva. The results of groups 3–5 (exposed to saliva) were not significantly different from those of group 2 (not exposed to saliva). Exposure of eroded enamel to saliva for up to 4 h was not able to increase SMH or reduce ETW. However, additional experiments with artificial saliva without proteins showed protection from erosive tooth wear. The recommendation to postpone toothbrushing of enamel after an erosive attack should be reconsidered.
The interictal language profile in adult epilepsy
Authors: Bartha‐Doering Lisa , Trinka Eugen
Published: August 2014

Objective

The purpose of this study was to systematically review the literature on the interictal language profile in adult patients with epilepsy.

Methods

An extensive literature search was performed using MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PASCAL, and PSYNDEXplus databases. Key aspects of inclusion criteria were adult patients with epilepsy, patient number >10, and in‐depth qualitative investigations of a specific language modality or administration of tests of at least two different language modalities, including comprehension, naming, repetition, reading, writing, and spontaneous speech.

Results

Our search strategy yielded 933 articles on epilepsy and language. Of these, 31 met final eligibility criteria. Most included articles focused on temporal lobe epilepsy; only three studies were interested in the language profile of patients with idiopathic generalized epilepsies, and one study on frontal lobe epilepsy met inclusion criteria. Study results showed a pronounced heterogeneity of language abilities in patients with epilepsy, varying from intact language profiles to impairment in several language functions. However, at least 17% of patients displayed deficits in more than one language function, with naming, reading comprehension, spontaneous speech, and discourse production being most often affected.

Significance

This review underscores the need to evaluate different language functions—including spontaneous speech, discourse abilities, naming, auditory and reading comprehension, reading, writing, and repetition—individually in order to obtain a reliable profile of language functioning in patients with epilepsy. Moreover, our findings show that in contrast to the huge scientific interest of memory functions in epilepsy, the examination of language functions so far played a minor role in epilepsy research, emphasizing the need for future research activities in this field.
Rethinking equine gastric ulcer syndrome: Part 1 – Terminology, clinical signs and diagnosis
Authors: Sykes B. W. , Jokisalo J. M.
Published: August 2014

Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) is a common condition in the horse. A series of recent articles highlighting differences in healing of squamous and glandular ulceration have reinvigorated interest in the condition. The purpose of this series of articles is to review the current thinking on EGUS with particular emphasis on the differences between diseases of the squamous and glandular mucosae. This article, the first will review the terminology, clinical signs and diagnosis of EGUS in the horse.
Comparing crystal structures of Ca2+‐ATPase in the presence of different lipids
Authors: Drachmann Nikolaj D. , Olesen Claus , Møller Jesper V. , Guo Zheng , Nissen Poul , Bublitz Maike
Published: August 2014

The activity of the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase (SERCA) depends strongly on the lipid composition of the surrounding membrane. Yet, structural information on SERCA–lipid interaction is still relatively scarce, and the influence of different lipids on the enzyme is not well understood. We have analyzed SERCA crystal structures in the presence of four different phosphatidylcholine lipids of different lengths and double‐bond compositions, and we find three different binding sites for lipid head groups, which are apparently independent of the acyl moiety of the lipids used. By comparison with other available SERCA structures with bound lipids, we find a total of five recurring sites, two of which are specific to certain conformational states of the enzyme, two others are state‐independent, and one is a crucial site for crystal formation. Three of the binding sites overlap with or are in close vicinity to known binding sites for various SERCA‐specific inhibitors and regulators, e.g. thapsigargin, sarcolipin/phospholamban and cyclopiazonic acid. Whereas the transient sites are amenable to a transient, regulatory influence of lipid molecules, the state‐independent sites probably provide a flexible anchoring of the protein in the fluid bilayer.
Behavioral characterization of striatal‐enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase (STEP) knockout mice
Authors: Sukoff Rizzo S. J. , Lotarski S. M. , Stolyar P. , McNally T. , Arturi C. , Roos M. , Finley J. E. , Reinhart V. , Lanz T. A.
Published: August 2014

Striatal‐enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase (STEP) has been described as a regulator of multiple kinases and glutamate receptor subunits critical for synaptic plasticity. Published behavioral and biochemical characterization from the founder line of STEP knockout (KO) mice revealed superior cognitive performance, with enhanced phosphorylation of substrates such as ERK, Fyn and GluN2B; suggesting that inhibitors of STEP may have potential as therapeutic agents for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. The objectives of this work aimed to replicate and extend the previously reported behavioral consequences of STEP knockout. Consistent with previous reported data, STEP KO mice demonstrated exploratory activity levels and similar motor coordination relative to WT littermate controls as well as intact memory in a Y‐maze spatial novelty test. Interestingly, KO mice demonstrated deficits in pre‐pulse inhibition as well as reduced seizure threshold relative to WT controls. Immunohistochemical staining of brains revealed the expected gene‐dependent reduction in STEP protein confirming knockout in the mice. The present data confirm expression and localization of STEP and the absence in KO mice, and describe functional downstream implications of reducing STEP levels in vivo.
Genotypic trait variation modifies effects of climate warming and nitrogen deposition on litter mass loss and microbial respiration
Authors: Hines Jes , Reyes Marta , Mozder Thomas J. , Gessner Mark O.
Published: August 2014

Intraspecific variation in genotypically determined traits can influence ecosystem processes. Therefore, the impact of climate change on ecosystems may depend, in part, on the distribution of plant genotypes. Here we experimentally assess effects of climate warming and excess nitrogen supply on litter decomposition using 12 genotypes of a cosmopolitan foundation species collected across a 2100 km latitudinal gradient and grown in a common garden. Genotypically determined litter‐chemistry traits varied substantially within and among geographic regions, which strongly affected decomposition and the magnitude of warming effects, as warming accelerated litter mass loss of high‐nutrient, but not low‐nutrient, genotypes. Although increased nitrogen supply alone had no effect on decomposition, it strongly accelerated litter mass loss of all genotypes when combined with warming. Rates of microbial respiration associated with the leaf litter showed nearly identical responses as litter mass loss. These results highlight the importance of interactive effects of environmental factors and suggest that loss or gain of genetic variation associated with key phenotypic traits can buffer, or exacerbate, the impact of global change on ecosystem process rates in the future.
Patients with AIDS‐defining cancers are not universally screened for HIV: a 10‐year retrospective analysis of HIV‐testing practices in a Swiss university hospital
Authors: Mosimann V , Cavassini M , Hugli O , Mamin R , Achtari C , Peters S , Darling KEA
Published: August 2014

Objectives

Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), invasive cervical carcinoma (ICC) and non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) have been listed as AIDS‐defining cancers (ADCs) by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention since 1993. Despite this, HIV screening is not universally mentioned in ADC treatment guidelines. We examined screening practices at a tertiary centre serving a population where HIV seroprevalence is 0.4%.

Methods

Patients with KS, ICC, NHL and Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), treated at Lausanne University Hospital between January 2002 and July 2012, were studied retrospectively. HIV testing was considered part of the oncology work‐up if performed between 90 days before and 90 days after the cancer diagnosis date.

Results

A total of 880 patients were examined: 10 with KS, 58 with ICC, 672 with NHL and 140 with HL. HIV testing rates were 100, 11, 60 and 59%, and HIV seroprevalence was 60, 1.7, 3.4 and 5%, respectively. Thirty‐seven patients (4.2%) were HIV‐positive, of whom eight (22%) were diagnosed at oncology work‐up. All newly diagnosed patients had CD4 counts < 200 cells/μL and six (75%) had presented to a physician 12–236 weeks previously with conditions warranting HIV testing.

Conclusions

In our institution, only patients with KS were universally screened. Screening rates for other cancers ranged from 11 to 60%. HIV seroprevalence was at least fourfold higher than the population average. As HIV‐positive status impacts on cancer patient medical management, HIV screening should be included in oncology guidelines. Further, we recommend that opt‐out screening should be adopted in all patients with ADCs and HL.
Between cooperation and competition: The organisation of employment service delivery in the UK and Germany
Authors: Fuertes Vanesa , Jantz Bastian , Klenk Tanja , McQuaid Ronald
Published: August 2014

The increased emphasis on labour market activation in many European countries has led to new forms of governance in recent decades. Primarily through qualitative data and document analysis, this article compares the restructuring of labour market service delivery in the UK and Germany. The comparison suggests the emergence of complex governance arrangements that seek to balance public regulation and accountability with the creation of room for market competition. As a result, we can observe in both countries a greater use of markets, but also of rules. While in both countries the relationships between different providers of labour market services can best be described as a mixture of cooperation and competition, differences exist in terms of instruments and the comprehensiveness of coordination initiatives. The findings suggest that the distinctions between governance models may be more important in theory than in practice, although the combinations of theoretical forms vary in different circumstances.
Biomechanical Comparison of a Locking Compression Plate Combined With an Intramedullary Pin or a Polyetheretherketone Rod in a Cadaveric Canine Tibia Gap Model
Authors: Beierer Lucas H. , Glyde Mark , Day Robert E. , Hosgood Giselle L.
Published: August 2014

Objective

To compare the biomechanical properties of a 10‐hole 3.5 mm locking compression plate (LCP) with 2 proximal and 2 distal bicortical locked screws reinforced with either a Steinmann pin of 30–40% the medullary diameter or a poly‐ether‐ether‐ketone (PEEK) rod of ∼75% the medullary diameter in a cadaveric tibia gap model.

Study Design

Ex vivostudy.

Sample Population

Cadaveric canine tibias (n = 8 pair).

Methods

Each construct had a 10‐hole 3.5 mm LCP with 2 screws per fracture fragment using a comminuted tibia gap model. The Steinmann pin constructs had a 2.4 mm intramedullary pin whereas the PEEK‐rod constructs had a 6 mm intramedullary PEEK rod placed. Biomechanical testing included non‐destructive bi‐planar 4 point bending, torsion testing, and destructive axial compression. Testing produced the responses of failure load (N) in axial compression, stiffness (N/mm or N/°) in axial compression, torsion, lateral‐medial, and caudal‐cranial 4 point bending. Screw position within the PEEK‐rods was determined after explantation.

Results

The PEEK‐rod constructs were significantly stiffer in axial compression (P < .005), lateral‐medial 4 point bending (P < .001), and in torsional loading (P < .031) than the Steinman pin constructs. There was no significant difference between the constructs for stiffness in caudal‐cranial 4 point bending (P = .32). The PEEK‐rod constructs failed at a significantly higher load than the Steinmann pin constructs (P < .001). All constructs failed by yielding through plastic deformation. Each screw penetrated the PEEK rod in all constructs but the position of the screw varied.

Conclusion

PEEK‐rod constructs failed at significantly higher loads and were significantly stiffer in 4 point lateral‐medial bending, axial compression, and torsion when compared with Steinmann pin constructs.
¿Pero trabajan las mujeres? No declaración y subestimación del empleo femenino en Malasia
Authors: FRANCK Anja Karlsson , OLSSON Jerry
Published: August 2014

A partir de un trabajo de campo en el estado malayo de Penang, los autores contribuyen a comprender la no declaración y la subestimación del trabajo informal femenino en las encuestas de población activa. Señalan los sesgos derivados de los métodos de recopilación de datos y, partiendo del concepto de agencia, demuestran que las propias mujeres actúan por motivos estratégicos: declarándose como amas de casa y considerando sus actividades remunerativas como prolongación de sus tareas domésticas evitan enfrentarse a la norma social de género preservando al mismo tiempo sus intereses en lo que respecta al trabajo fuera del hogar.
Igualdad de género, trabajo a tiempo parcial y segregación en Europa
Authors: SPARREBOOM Theo
Published: August 2014

Este artículo examina la segregación por género y por duración de la jornada laboral, y cómo interactúan, restringiendo las opciones profesionales de los trabajadores afectados. La relación compensatoria (excluyente) entre aumento del empleo femenino y disminución de la segregación por género es más fuerte en el empleo a tiempo completo. La segregación por género parece menor en el empleo a tiempo parcial, pero lo que determina el efecto del empleo a tiempo parcial en el nivel de segregación en el empleo total es la diferencia de las tasas de empleo a tiempo parcial de hombres y mujeres.
Increasing imputation and prediction accuracy for Chinese Holsteins using joint Chinese–Nordic reference population
Authors: Ma P. , Lund M.S. , Ding X. , Zhang Q. , Su G.
Published: August 2014

This study investigated the effect of including Nordic Holsteins in the reference population on the imputation accuracy and prediction accuracy for Chinese Holsteins. The data used in this study include 85 Chinese Holstein bulls genotyped with both 54K chip and 777K (HD) chip, 2862 Chinese cows genotyped with 54K chip, 510 Nordic Holstein bulls genotyped with HD chip, and 4398 Nordic Holstein bulls genotyped with 54K chip and with deregressed proofs for five milk production traits. Based on these data, the accuracy of imputation from 54K to HD marker data and the accuracy of genomic predictions in Chinese Holstein were assessed. The allele correct rate increased around 2.7 and 1.7% in imputation from the 54K to the HD marker data for Chinese Holstein bulls and cows, respectively, when the Nordic HD‐genotyped bulls were included in the reference data for imputation. However, the prediction accuracy was improved slightly when using the marker data imputed based on the combined HD reference data, compared with using the marker data imputed based on the Chinese HD reference data only. On the other hand, when using the combined reference population including 4398 Nordic Holstein bulls, the accuracy of genomic predictions increased 6.5 percentage points together with a reduction of prediction bias. The HD markers did not outperform the 54K markers in genomic prediction based on the present data. The results indicate that for Chinese Holsteins, it is necessary to genotype more individuals with 54K chip to increase reference population rather than increasing marker density.
Latina Adolescent Sleep and Mood: An Ecological Momentary Assessment Pilot Study
Authors: Garcia Carolyn , Zhang Lei , Holt Katie , Hardeman Rachel , Peterson Barbara
Published: August 2014

Problem

Sleep and mood represent two important malleable opportunities for adolescent health. This study investigated the sleep–mood relationship in adolescent girls.

Methods

Short‐term, longitudinal design. Latina adolescents (N = 19, mean age 15) completed ecological momentary assessments on sleep (perceived quality, self‐report quantity) and mood (negative affect, positive affect, and positivity ratio).

Findings

Adolescents sent 1,598 texts on sleep and mood. Bidirectional sleep–mood relationships were in expected directions; negative affect and the positivity ratio affect predicted adolescents' sleep quality.

Conclusions

Interventions should encourage sleep–mood relationship awareness, and further research should identify significant differences to inform tailored interventions with adolescents.
Aortic arch atheroma and the risk of stroke: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Cui Xiaoyang , Li Yi , Liu Junfeng , He Sha , Liu Ming
Published: August 2014

Backgrounds and objectives

Epidemiological studies have suggested that aortic atheroma may play a role in cerebral embolization; however, no meta‐analysis was conducted to evaluate the relationship between aortic atheroma and risk of stroke. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the presence of aortic atheroma and risk of stroke.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive search of observational studies reporting the relationship between the presence of aortic atheroma and stroke using the PubMed, EMbase, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure database (CNKI), Chinese Technical Periodicals (VIP), and WanFang Data databases. Two reviewers independently assessed the eligibility and extracted data from the included studies. We performed the meta‐analysis to estimate the strength of the association according to Meta‐analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guideline and assessed the study quality by the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale (NOS).

Results

We identified 12 eligible studies with 3918 participants. The scores of the NOS of the included studies ranged from 5 to 9. The pooled estimate of strength of the association between the presence of aortic atheroma and stroke was statistical significant (OR = 3.93, 95%CI 2.86 to 5.40). In subgroup analysis according to plaques’ morphology, complex aortic atheroma had significantly higher (OR = 5.90, 95%CI 4.14 to 8.41) risk of stroke than protruding atheroma (OR = 3.75, 95%CI 3.05 to 4.61).

Conclusions

This study indicated that aortic atheroma significantly increased the risk of stroke by about four times. Patients with complex aortic atheroma have a higher risk of stroke than protruding atheroma.
Reduction of preanalytical errors in clinical laboratory through multiple aspects and whole course intervention measures
Authors: Li Hong‐ying , Huang Xiang‐ning , Yang Yong‐chang , Huang Wen‐fang , Chen Li , Song Ping , Zhang Wen‐yuan
Published: August 2014

Objective

Errors in preanalytical phase decrease the accuracy of reports from clinical laboratory department. Considering the disqualified rate of preanalytical sample in our hospital, we performed several intervention measures to improve the situation.

Methods

The disqualified sample types and major causes of errors in the preanalytical phase were investigated in clinical laboratory department from September 2008 to August 2009. In the following year, we utilized multiple measures to properly intervene the key points of whole sample collection process, and the preanalytical errors were reanalyzed trimonthly, then the disqualification rate of total, major disqualified sample types and different test groups were calculated to evaluate the effects of the intervention measures.

Results

The total disqualification rate in the preanalytical phase obtained from September 2008 to August 2009 was 1.36%, and the major types of disqualified samples were coagulation of anticoagulant sample, sample inadequacy, sample container error, sample information error and sample type error. After one year intervention through key points of whole preanalytical sample collection process, the total disqualification rate dropped to 0.94%, and the disqualification rate of coagulation of anticoagulant sample, sample inadequacy, sample container error, sample information error, and sample type error decreased by 20.45%, 28.00%, 25.00%, 76.92%, and 66.66%, respectively. As for test groups, the decreasing amplitude of biochemical, routine, immunological, microbiological and emergency test group was 47.36%, 33.33%, 20.00%, 50.00%, and 21.43%, respectively.

Conclusions

The overall effect of the interventions is very good, and the disqualification rate of the main causes decreases to various degrees.
Analysis of the Beta‐Tubulin Gene and Morphological Changes of the Microsporidium Anncaliia algerae both Suggest Albendazole Sensitivity
Authors: Santiana Marianita , Pau Cyrilla , Takvorian Peter M. , Cali Ann
Published: August 2014

The Microsporidium, Anncaliia algerae, an obligate intracellular parasite, has been identified as an opportunistic human pathogen, but treatment has not been evaluated for infections with this organism. Albendazole, an antitubulin polymerization drug used against parasitic worm infections, has been the medication of choice used to treat some microsporidial infections affecting humans, with varying results ranging from clearing infection (Encephalitozoon) to resistance (Enterocytozoon). This study illustrates the effect of albendazole treatment on A. algerae infection in Rabbit Kidney (RK13) cells and Human Fetal Lung (HFL‐1) fibroblasts. Albendazole appears to have an attenuating effect on A. algerae infection and albendazole's IC50 in RK13 cells is 0.1 μg/ml. Long‐term treatment inhibits up to 98% of spore production, but interrupting treatment reestablishes the infection without new exposure to the parasite as supported by microscopic observations. The parasite's beta‐tubulin gene was purified, cloned, and sequenced. Five of the six specific amino acids, associated with benzimidazole sensitivity, are conserved in A. algerae. These findings suggest that A. algerae is sensitive to albendazole; however, the organism is not completely cleared from cultures.
The effect of typhoon‐related defoliation on the ecology of gap dynamics in a subtropical rain forest of Taiwan
Authors: Yao Ai‐Wen , Chiang Jyh‐Min , McEwan Ryan , Lin Teng‐Chiu
Published: August 2014

Questions

How do frequent disturbances of varying intensity affect heterogeneity of canopy openness and resulting regenerating tree diversity in subtropical rain forests? How does canopy gap pattern and regeneration time of a forest experiencing frequent but unpredictable typhoon disturbance vary over 17 yr? How is the understorey light environment influenced by canopy gaps in a forest experiencing frequent defoliation? Compared to non‐gap areas, do gaps provide unique niches reflected in different seedling communities?

Location

Natural evergreen hardwood forest, northeastern Taiwan.

Methods

We examined gap characteristics, light availability and variability, and seedling diversity in both gaps and non‐gaps in a subtropical forest with frequent typhoon disturbance, and compared the results to a survey at the same site conducted in 1995 following six typhoons in 1994.

Results

Gaps were smaller and covered a much smaller proportion of the forest in the 2012 survey (mean gap size 10 m2, 3.3% of the forest) than the 1995 survey (33 m2 and 10%). Canopy regeneration times estimated from the 2012 survey (200–400 yr) were much longer than those based on the 1995 survey (50–175 yr). Neither light availability nor variability differed between gaps and non‐gaps, so gaps ostensibly did not provide a unique niche space. There were no seedling species occurring exclusively in gaps, and very high plant community similarity (>90%) between gaps and non‐gaps.

Conclusions

In ecosystems with small canopy gaps resulting from frequent disturbance, gaps play a neutral role in understorey light environment and thus provide no unique niches and play a neutral role in plant diversity. Our study also suggests that measures of gap area, occurrence and forest turnover should be taken multiple times, during years with varying background disturbance rates.
Accessing foods can exert multiple distinct, and potentially competing, selective pressures on feeding in common marmoset monkeys
Authors: Thompson C. L. , Valença‐Montenegro M. M. , Melo L. C. d. O. , Valle Y. B. M. , Oliveira M. A. B. d. , Lucas P. W. , Vinyard C. J.
Published: August 2014

Animals must overcome the physical properties protecting foods to obtain nutrition. While animals can experience selection for traits that facilitate resource exploitation, specific feeding behaviors may entail multiple, different mechanical challenges with each potentially eliciting distinct selection pressures. Tree gouging by common marmosets (Primates: Callithrix jacchus) provides an illustrative case for studying these distinct mechanical challenges and their correlated behaviors and morphologies. We test the hypothesis that marmosets respond differently to three sequential mechanical stages of bark removal: (1) indentation; (2) crack initiation; (3) crack propagation. By surveying trees gouged by free‐ranging marmosets in Pernambuco, Brazil, we found that mechanical variables related to crack initiation (fracture toughness, critical strain energy release rate and elastic modulus) were inversely correlated with measures of gouging intensity, with less mechanically challenging trees being gouged more intensely. Because crack initiation is likely the most mechanically challenging aspect of tree gouging, behavioral preference for less challenging resources likely allows marmosets to reduce costs and potential risks associated with accessing exudates. Variables related to bark indentation (hardness and friction) showed no relationship to the intensity of gouging behavior. Contrary to our prediction, trees with greater mechanical challenges for crack propagation (work to peel) were gouged more intensely. We attribute this pattern of gouging trees requiring greater effort in crack propagation to an inverse correlation between work to peel and fracture toughness in our tree sample. Importantly, marmosets exhibit morphological specializations of the feeding apparatus that facilitate indentation and crack propagation, potentially mitigating the need for behavioral choice. Here we show that extracting a single food resource can exert a series of distinct, potentially competing, selective forces during resource acquisition. This study illustrates how animals combine behaviors and morphological specializations to competently overcome distinct mechanical challenges, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches in understanding feeding adaptations.
Synergy between an Improved Covariate Unit Root Test and Cross‐sectionally Dependent Panel Data Unit Root Tests
Authors: Hadri Kaddour , Kurozumi Eiji , Yamazaki Daisuke
Published: August 2014

This paper proposes the use of an improved covariate unit root test which exploits the cross‐sectional dependence information when the panel data null hypothesis of a unit root is rejected. More explicitly, to increase the power of the test, we suggest the utilization of more than one covariate and offer several ways to select the ‘best’ covariates from the set of potential covariates represented by the individuals in the panel. Employing our methods, we investigate the Prebish‐Singer hypothesis for nine commodity prices. Our results show that this hypothesis holds for all but the price of petroleum.
Laser treatment for onychomycosis: a review
Authors: Bhatta Anil K. , Huang Xin , Keyal Uma , Zhao Jun Jing
Published: August 2014

It has always been difficult to treat onychomycosis due to decrease ability of topical agents to penetrate the nail and reach the affected nail bed. Oral antifungal have shown good response but due to longer duration course it has potential to cause systemic side effects, leading to patient non‐adherence and adverse events. Lasers, therefore, have been suggested for the treatment of onychomycosis due to their minimally invasive nature and the potential for requiring fewer treatment sessions. The aim of writing this article is to review a literature regarding treatment of onychomycosis by laser. This article will discuss about all the available laser treatment options for onychomycosis as well as their currently published, peer‐reviewed literature.
Land use influences arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities in the farming–pastoral ecotone of northern China
Authors: Xiang Dan , Verbruggen Erik , Hu Yajun , Veresoglou Stavros D. , Rillig Matthias C. , Zhou Wenping , Xu Tianle , Li Huan , Hao Zhipeng , Chen Yongliang , Chen Baodong
Published: August 2014

We performed a landscape‐scale investigation to compare the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) communities between grasslands and farmlands in the farming–pastoral ecotone of northern China.

AMF richness and community composition were examined with 454 pyrosequencing. Structural equation modelling (SEM) and multivariate analyses were applied to disentangle the direct and indirect effects (mediated by multiple environmental factors) of land use on AMF.

Land use conversion from grassland to farmland significantly reduced AMF richness and extraradical hyphal length density, and these land use types also differed significantly in AMF community composition. SEM showed that the effects of land use on AMF richness and hyphal length density in soil were primarily mediated by available phosphorus and soil structural quality. Soil texture was the strongest predictor of AMF community composition. Soil carbon, nitrogen and soil pH were also significantly correlated with AMF community composition, indicating that these abiotic variables could be responsible for some of the community composition differences among sites.

Our study shows that land use has a partly predictable effect on AMF communities across this ecologically relevant area of China, and indicates that high soil phosphorus concentrations and poor soil structure are particularly detrimental to AMF in this fragile ecosystem.
Exercise tolerance in obese vs. lean adolescents: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hansen D. , Marinus N. , Remans M. , Courtois I. , Cools F. , Calsius J. , Massa G. , Takken T.
Published: August 2014

To prescribe feasible and medically safe exercise interventions for obese adolescents, it remains to be determined whether exercise tolerance is altered and whether anomalous cardiopulmonary responses during maximal exercise testing are present. Studies that examined cardiopulmonary responses to maximal exercise testing in obese adolescents were searched: cardiopulmonary exercise tests with respiratory gas exchange measurements of peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) were performed and comparisons between obese and lean adolescents were made. Study quality was assessed using a standardized item list. By meta‐analyses VO2peak, peak cycling power output (Wpeak) and peak heart rate (HRpeak) were compared between groups. Nine articles were selected (333 obese vs. 145 lean adolescents). VO2peak (L min−1), HRpeak and Wpeak were not different between groups (P ≥ 0.10), while a trend was found for a reduced VO2peak (mL min−1 kg−1 lean tissue mass) (P = 0.07) in obese vs. lean adolescents. It remained uncertain whether anomalous cardiopulmonary responses occur during maximal exercise testing in obese adolescents. In conclusion, a trend was found for lowered VO2peak (mL min−1 kg−1 lean tissue mass) in obese vs. lean adolescents. Whether cardiopulmonary anomalies during maximal exercise testing would occur in obese adolescents remains uncertain. Studies are therefore warranted to examine the cardiopulmonary response during maximal exercise testing in obese adolescents.
Salt‐stress induced modulation of chlorophyll biosynthesis during de‐etiolation of rice seedlings
Authors: Turan Satpal , Tripathy Baishnab C.
Published: August 2014

Chlorophyll biosynthesis in plants is subjected to modulation by various environmental factors. To understand the modulation of the chlorophyll (Chl) biosynthesis during greening process by salt, 100–200 mM NaCl was applied to the roots of etiolated rice seedlings 12 h prior to the transfer to light. Application of 200 mM NaCl to rice seedlings that were grown in light for further 72 h resulted in reduced dry matter production (–58%) and Chl accumulation (–66%). Ionic imbalance due to salinity stress resulted in additional downregulation (41–45%) of seedling dry weight, Chl and carotenoid contents over and above that of similar osmotic stress induced by polyethylene glycol. Downregulation of Chl biosynthesis may be attributed to decreased activities of Chl biosynthetic pathway enzymes, i.e. 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA) dehydratase (EC‐2.4.1.24), porphobilinogen deaminase (EC‐4.3.1.8), coproporphyrinogen III oxidase (EC‐1.3.3.3), protoporphyrinogen IX oxidase (EC‐1.3.3.4), Mg‐protoporphyrin IX chelatase (EC‐6.6.1.1) and protochlorophyllide oxidoreductase (EC‐1.3.33.1). Reduced enzymatic activities were due to downregulation of their protein abundance and/or gene expression in salt‐stressed seedlings. The extent of downregulation of ALA biosynthesis nearly matched with that of protochlorophyllide and Chl to prevent the accumulation of highly photosensitive photodynamic tetrapyrroles that generates singlet oxygen under stress conditions. Although, ALA synthesis decreased, the gene/protein expression of glutamyl‐tRNA reductase (EC‐1.2.1.70) increased suggesting it may play a role in acclimation to salt stress. The similar downregulation of both early and late Chl biosynthesis intermediates in salt‐stressed seedlings suggests a regulatory network of genes involved in tetrapyrrole biosynthesis.
Plasticity of vulnerability to leaf hydraulic dysfunction during acclimation to drought in grapevines: an osmotic‐mediated process
Authors: Martorell Sebastian , Medrano Hipolito , Tomàs Magdalena , Escalona José M. , Flexas Jaume , Diaz‐Espejo Antonio
Published: August 2014

Previous studies have reported correlation of leaf hydraulic vulnerability with pressure–volume parameters related to cell turgor. This link has been explained on the basis of the effects of turgor on connectivity among cells and tissue structural integrity, which affect leaf water transport. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that osmotic adjustment to water stress would shift the leaf vulnerability curve toward more negative water potential (Ψleaf) by increasing turgor at low Ψleaf. We measured leaf hydraulic conductance (Kleaf), Kleaf vulnerability [50 and 80% loss of Kleaf (P50 and P80); |Ψleaf| at 50 and 80% loss of Kleaf, respectively), bulk leaf water relations, leaf gas exchange and sap flow in two Vitis vinifera cultivars (Tempranillo and Grenache), under two water treatments. We found that P50, P80 and maximum Kleaf decreased seasonally by more than 20% in both cultivars and watering treatments. However, Kleaf at −2 MPa increased threefold, while osmotic potential at full turgor and turgor loss point decreased. Our results indicate that leaf resistance to hydraulic dysfunction is seasonally plastic, and this plasticity may be mediated by osmotic adjustment.
Administrative Growth and Grant Payouts in Nonprofit Foundations: Fulfilling the Public Good amid Professionalization?
Authors: Stewart Amanda J. , Faulk Lewis
Published: August 2014

The Tax Reform Act of 1969 remains the core governing policy for the U.S. foundation sector, primarily for its qualifying distributions mandate, which ensures a baseline spending of foundation assets toward charitable purposes. However, implementation of this policy required additional foundation administrative resources and contributed to significant professionalization of the foundation sector. This article focuses on the payout requirement's potential paradox of accountability, as administrative expenses can be counted toward fulfilling foundations’ qualifying distributions. Using a 14‐year panel of grantmaking foundations, the analysis seeks to understand whether professionalization, measured by operating and administrative expenses, contributes to or crowds out grantmaking. Findings indicate that professionalization of the foundation sector has a small yet practically and statistically significant positive association with foundation grantmaking. From a policy perspective, the current structure of the qualifying distributions mandate does not appear to lead to a crowding out of grant allocations as administrative expenses grow.
Risk Management and Risk Avoidance in Agency Decision Making
Authors: Eckerd Adam
Published: August 2014

Despite decades of efforts to enhance the public's role in bureaucratic decision making, citizens still tend to have little influence on the decisions that public managers make. Solutions often focus on the processes or structures of participation, but such changes may be of limited effectiveness if the structure is only part of the problem. Although much research has argued the normative justification for including the public, noting that frameworks that do not encourage genuine participation may diminish rather than enhance public influence, there has been less focus on how participants’ divergent frames of reference may also diminish the influence of public input. This research explores this gap from a risk management perspective, suggesting that public managers tend to view risk as something to be managed, whereas citizens tend to view risk as best avoided.
Looking for Friends, Fans, and Followers? Social Media Use in Public and Nonprofit Human Services
Authors: Campbell David A. , Lambright Kristina T. , Wells Christopher J.
Published: August 2014

This article uses interviews and Internet data to examine social media use among nonprofit organizations and county departments involved in the delivery of human services in a six‐county area in south‐central New York State. Social media use was modest, with nonprofit organizations much more likely to use it than county departments. Organizations used social media primarily to market organizational activities, remain relevant to key constituencies, and raise community awareness. Most organizations either had a narrow view of social media's potential value or lacked a long‐term vision. Barriers to use included institutional policies, concerns about the inappropriateness of social media for target audiences, and client confidentiality. Findings build on recent research regarding the extent to which nonprofit organizations and local governments use social media to engage stakeholders. Future research should investigate not only the different ways organizations use social media but also whether organizations use it strategically to advance organizational goals.