bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Burst packet loss and enhanced packet loss‐based quality model for mobile voice‐over Internet protocol applications
Authors: Jung Younchan , Manzano Caroline
Published: January 2014

Voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) quality monitoring platforms need to be as simple as possible, especially at low capacity end‐points, such as smart phones. The existing simple packet loss‐based quality model, with only the input metric of the packet loss parameter, needs to be enhanced to increase the accuracy of quality prediction while ensuring that implementation is simple. Several burstiness parameters for describing burst loss characteristics in VoIP packet streams has been presented. The authors investigate how closely each one is correlated to perceptual quality. Then, from the correlation results, two dominant parameters are chosen that will be used as additional input metrics to increase the accuracy of quality prediction. A packet loss‐based and enhanced quality prediction model is also proposed for VoIP services over the Internet. This can replace the speech quality estimation model in ITU G.1070, which aims to implement VoIP quality monitoring platforms at low capacity end‐points. Thus, mobile end‐points, such as smart phones, can embed the proposed quality prediction model to measure VoIP quality on a real‐time basis.
Detailed analysis of permanent magnets by means of free field measurements
Authors: Husstedt Hendrik , Kaltenbacher Manfred
Published: January 2014

A measurement technique is depicted that allows one to analyze the direction as well as the distribution of the remanence (or remanent magnetization) of permanent magnets. To this end, the magnetic field is measured at several positions around the magnet, and the magnet is subdivided into multiple cells. Then, an efficient method is presented how the remanence vectors of these cells are computed from the measurement values by means of finite element simulations. Finally, the measurement technique is applied to permanent magnets used in magnetically biased chokes which demonstrates the new possibilities and the practical applicability.
Nonlinear strain dependence of magnetic anisotropy in CoFe2O4 films on MgO(001) substrates
Authors: Tanaka M. A. , Harada K. , Takemura M. , Mibu K. , Inoue J.
Published: January 2014

CoFe2O4 films were deposited on MgO(001) substrates using pulsed laser deposition with various laser energy densities. We found that the CoFe2O4 films were grown in the (001) orientation and that the lattice constant of the CoFe2O4 films was dependent on the laser energy densities. Perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) was observed, but the lattice strain dependence was not consistent with the phenomenological model in which the PMA is in proportion to the lattice strain. The lattice strain dependence of PMA was compared with an electron theory in which the spin-orbit interaction and the tetragonal crystal field in the electronic state of a single Co ion are considered. The experimental result does not contradict with the calculation, which shows that the magnetic anisotropy is not proportional to the lattice strain and asymmetric in respect to negative and positive lattice strain.
Infinite swapping in curved spaces
Authors: Curotto E. , Mella Massimo
Published: January 2014

We develop an extension of the infinite swapping and partial infinite swapping techniques [N. Plattner, J. D. Doll, P. Dupuis, H. Wang, Y. Liu, and J. E. Gubernatis, J. Chem. Phys. 135, 134111 (2011)] to curved spaces. Furthermore, we test the performance of infinite swapping and partial infinite swapping in a series of flat spaces characterized by the same potential energy surface model. We develop a second order variational algorithm for general curved spaces without the extended Lagrangian formalism to include holonomic constraints. We test the new methods by carrying out NVT classical ensemble simulations on a set of multidimensional toroids mapped by stereographic projections and characterized by a potential energy surface built from a linear combination of decoupled double wells shaped purposely to create rare events over a range of temperatures.
A self-positioning and rolling magnetic microrobot on arbitrary thin surfaces
Authors: Jeon S. M. , Nam J. K. , Choi K. , Jang G. H.
Published: January 2014

We propose a novel self-positioning and rolling magnetic microrobot (SPRMM) actuated by a magnetic navigation system. The proposed microrobot can effectively anchor or move on an arbitrary three-dimensional thin surface by overcoming external forces. Furthermore, we derive a no-slip rolling constraint equation for the SPRMM. We also examine the equilibrium characteristics of the SPRMM by utilizing the point-dipole model. Experiments demonstrating the locomotion abilities of the SPRMM in complex working environments are then conducted to verify the proposed SPRMM.
Tungsten diffusion in silicon
Authors: De Luca A. , Portavoce A. , Texier M. , Grosjean C. , Burle N. , Oison V. , Pichaud B.
Published: January 2014

Two doses (1013 and 1015 cm−2) of tungsten (W) atoms were implanted in different Si(001) wafers in order to study W diffusion in Si. The samples were annealed or oxidized at temperatures between 776 and 960 °C. The diffusion profiles were measured by secondary ion mass spectrometry, and defect formation was studied by transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography. W is shown to reduce Si recrystallization after implantation and to exhibit, in the temperature range investigated, a solubility limit close to 0.15%–0.2%, which is higher than the solubility limit of usual metallic impurities in Si. W diffusion exhibits unusual linear diffusion profiles with a maximum concentration always located at the Si surface, slower kinetics than other metals in Si, and promotes vacancy accumulation close to the Si surface, with the formation of hollow cavities in the case of the higher W dose. In addition, Si self-interstitial injection during oxidation is shown to promote W-Si clustering. Taking into account these observations, a diffusion model based on the simultaneous diffusion of interstitial W atoms and W-Si atomic pairs is proposed since usual models used to model diffusion of metallic impurities and dopants in Si cannot reproduce experimental observations.
Direct band gap optical emission from Ge islands grown on relaxed Si0.5Ge0.5/Si (100) substrate
Authors: Aluguri R. , Manna S. , Ray S. K.
Published: January 2014

Strained Ge islands have been grown on fully relaxed Si0.5Ge0.5 substrate by pulsed laser ablation technique. The formation of strained Ge islands has been found for film with higher thickness following Stranski–Krastanov growth mechanism. The variation of strain with changing Ge layer thickness has been analyzed using Raman spectroscopy and high-resolution X-ray diffraction techniques. X-ray photoelectron spectra have shown the absence of any Si-Ge intermixing and oxidation of Ge films. A strong no-phonon photoluminescence emission from Ge islands has been observed, showing the superior optical characteristics of the islands grown on relaxed substrate.
Misalignment-free signal propagation in nanomagnet arrays and logic gates with 45°-clocking field
Authors: Li Zheng , Kwon Byung Seok , Krishnan Kannan M.
Published: January 2014

A key obstacle for the application of Magnetic Quantum-dot Cellular Automata (MQCA) is the misalignment of clocking field, which results in low stability for both signal propagations within nanomagnet array and logic operation in majority gates. Here, we demonstrate that a reversal clocking field applied at 45° off the hard axis, with progressively reduced amplitude, applied to a shape-tuned nanomagnet array fabricated by e-beam lithography, helps intrinsically eliminate the misalignment sensitivity of the elements and results in correct signal propagation. Further, least reversal steps and reduced field amplitude was required owing to the 45°-clocking field. This clocking field was also tested for majority gates (OR function) and characterized by Magnetic Force Microscopy demonstrating correct output. This novel design provides high stability for signal propagation and logic operation of MQCA and potentially paves way for its application.
Augmentative biological control: research and methods to help make it work.
Authors: Sivinski J.
Published: January 2014

Augmentative biological control, especially in field situations, can be complex but there are novel or incompletely explored directions for research and methods development that may lead to improved future performance. At the fundamental level, augmentation faces inherent ecological/behavioural challenges such as enemy dispersal, pest refugia and deleterious interactions within predator/parasitoid guilds. However, these may be addressed by the choice of natural enemies with specific or manipulatable dispersal capabilities which attack hosts when most vulnerable. Integration of augmentative biological control with other control methods has not been sufficiently explored. One promising partner is the sterile insect technique (SIT) and related technologies such as conditional-lethality and genetic-drives that perform best at low and declining pest densities and should interact well, even synergistically, with natural enemy augmentation. Other candidates for integration with augmentative biological control include the addition of plants that support natural enemies, infochemicals such as kairomones that could lead pests to occupy more vulnerable microhabitats and even certain pesticides. At the production level, new or not widely adopted technologies for mass-rearing can lower costs. For example, host irradiation simplifies the handling of parasitoids, improves sanitation, facilitates the movement of natural enemies across borders and allows hosts to be exposed in sentinel-traps. Parasitoid rearing expenses could be halved by using thelytokous strains such as those resulting from
Wolbachia
infections. In some cases, hosts for specialist parasitoids can be obtained inexpensively from the unwanted sex of mass-reared pests: another advantage of integration with SIT. While many innovations are now costly, scientifically sophisticated and planned for use in regional-scale projects, new techniques and genetic modifications could become widely available to the agricultural industry.
What is the risk from wild animals in food-borne pathogen contamination of plants?
Authors: Jay-Russell M. T.
Published: January 2014

Fresh fruits, nuts and vegetables are increasingly linked to food-borne illnesses, outbreaks and recalls. The trend represents a modern-day public health conundrum wherein consumers are encouraged to eat more fresh produce to help prevent chronic health problems such as obesity and heart disease, but at the same time consumption of contaminated produce can lead to potentially life-threatening acute food-borne disease. Identification of environmental sources responsible for the contamination of raw and minimally processed or fresh-cut plant commodities is necessary to develop prevention strategies. Produce-related outbreaks have been caused by faecal contamination of plants or surrounding watersheds following intrusion by wild or feral animals. A wild animal shedding a zoonotic food-borne pathogen could contaminate plants directly through faecal deposition or indirectly via faecal contamination of agriculture water or soil in contact with the plants. Owing to the low infectious dose of zoonotic enteric pathogens and the potential for attachment and possibly ingress into edible parts of plants, even a low level of contamination from faecal pathogens represents a significant public health concern. This review focuses on potential produce food safety risks from wild animals at the pre-harvest level, and downstream processes that may promote pathogen survival and amplification that could lead to human food-borne illnesses, outbreaks, and recalls. Microbe-plant interactions for the major zoonotic food-borne pathogens and higher risk plant commodities are reviewed. Finally, current guidelines and regulations to minimize risks related to wild animal activity in the production environment are summarized.
An internal ligand-bound, metastable state of a leukocyte integrin, αXβ2
Authors: Sen Mehmet , Yuki Koichi , Springer Timothy A.
Published: January 2014

How is massive conformational change in integrins achieved on a rapid timescale? We report crystal structures of a metastable, putative transition state of integrin αXβ2. The αXβ2 ectodomain is bent; however, a lattice contact stabilizes its ligand-binding αI domain in a high affinity, open conformation. Much of the αI α7 helix unwinds, loses contact with the αI domain, and reshapes to form an internal ligand that binds to the interface between the β propeller and βI domains. Lift-off of the αI domain above this platform enables a range of extensional and rotational motions without precedent in allosteric machines. Movements of secondary structure elements in the β2 βI domain occur in an order different than in β3 integrins, showing that integrin β subunits can be specialized to assume different intermediate states between closed and open. Mutations demonstrate that the structure trapped here is metastable and can enable rapid equilibration between bent and extended-open integrin conformations and up-regulation of leukocyte adhesiveness.
The Effects of Policy Expectations on Crop Supply, with an Application to Base Updating
Authors: Hendricks Nathan P. , Sumner Daniel A.
Published: January 2014

We develop a dynamic model to assess the effects of policy expectations on crop supply and illustrate the approach with estimates of the effects of base updating in U.S. crop programs. For corn and soybeans in the Corn Belt, the effect of base updating is relatively small because relevant crop alternatives are subject to similar policies and the alternatives are substitutes in production. Increasing acreage of one program crop to capture future payments from base updating reduces future payments from the alternative crop. We also use our model to assess the effect of base updating on acreage response to prices.
How good are alternative indicators for spawning-stock biomass (SSB) and fishing mortality (F)?
Authors: Probst Wolfgang Nikolaus , Oesterwind Daniel
Published: January 2014

Survey-based abundance indices (catch per unit effort, cpue) and harvest ratios (HRs) are usable proxies for spawning-stock biomass and fishing mortality (F). Here, we present an easy approach to calculate secondary indicators based on a public dataset. However, the performance of different cpue/HR indicator metrics varied between stocks, and, therefore, the adequate metrics for secondary indicators should be chosen for each stock after careful analysis by experts.
Fast radio bursts may originate from nearby flaring stars
Authors: Loeb Abraham , Shvartzvald Yossi , Maoz Dan
Published: January 2014

Six cases of fast radio bursts (FRBs) have recently been discovered. The FRBs are bright (∼0.1–1 Jy) and brief (∼1 ms) pulses of radio emission with dispersion measures (DMs) that exceed Galactic values, and hence FRBs have been interpreted to be at cosmological distances. We propose, instead, that FRBs are rare eruptions of flaring main-sequence stars within ∼1 kpc. Rather than associating their excess DM with the intergalactic medium, we relate it to a blanket of coronal plasma around their host star. We have monitored at optical bands the stars within the radio beams of three of the known FRBs. In one field, we find a bright (V = 13.6 mag) variable star (0.2 mag peak to trough) with a main-sequence G-type spectrum and a period P = 7.8 h, likely a W-UMa-type contact binary. Analysis of our data outside of the FRB beams indicates a 5 per cent probability of finding, at random, a variable star of this brightness and amplitude within the FRB beams, but this could still be a chance coincidence. We find no unusual variable stars in the other two FRB fields. Further observations are needed to investigate if similar nearby (≲800 pc) stars are the sources of FRBs.
Effect of Elevated Carbon Dioxide Concentration on Rice Quality: Proximate Composition, Dietary Fibers, and Free Sugars
Authors: Goufo Piebiep , Ferreira Luis M. M. , Carranca Corina , Rosa Eduardo A. S. , Trindade Henrique
Published: January 2014

Little is known regarding the impact of elevated carbon dioxide concentration ([CO2]) on the chemical composition of rice grains. A field experiment was conducted with open‐top chambers with rice (Oryza sativa L. cv. Ariete) grown at two levels of atmospheric CO2 (375 and 550 μmol/mol), and their effects were monitored on the proximate composition and carbohydrate contents of the grains. Following exposure to elevated [CO2], soluble dietary fiber increased by 136, 82, and 77% in brown rice, white rice, and bran, respectively. Increases of a lower magnitude (8%) were observed for insoluble dietary fiber in the bran and brown rice. For all 10 sugars identified, there was a trend for increasing their content. For example, increases of 135% were recorded for glucose in the white rice. In all rice milling fractions, elevated [CO2] reduced the protein (4–15%) and amylose (6–16%) contents, with no effect on the ash, starch, and gross energy contents. The fat content was increased by elevated [CO2] in the white rice (23%) and tended to decrease in the bran (9%). It is concluded that besides yield, increased dietary fiber might be another positive effect of high levels of atmospheric CO2 expected by the middle of the current century.
Disruption of Vector Transmission by a Plant-Expressed Viral Glycoprotein
Authors: Montero-Astúa Mauricio , Rotenberg Dorith , Leach-Kieffaber Alexandria , Schneweis Brandi A. , Park Sunghun , Park Jungeun K. , German Thomas L. , Whitfield Anna E.
Published: January 2014

Vector-borne viruses are a threat to human, animal, and plant health worldwide, requiring the development of novel strategies for their control. Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) is one of the 10 most economically significant plant viruses and, together with other tospoviruses, is a threat to global food security. TSWV is transmitted by thrips, including the western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis. Previously, we demonstrated that the TSWV glycoprotein GNbinds to thrips vector midguts. We report here the development of transgenic plants that interfere with TSWV acquisition and transmission by the insect vector. Tomato plants expressing GN-S protein supported virus accumulation and symptom expression comparable with nontransgenic plants. However, virus titers in larval insects exposed to the infected transgenic plants were three-log lower than insects exposed to infected nontransgenic control plants. The negative effect of the GN-S transgenics on insect virus titers persisted to adulthood, as shown by four-log lower virus titers in adults and an average reduction of 87% in transmission efficiencies. These results demonstrate that an initial reduction in virus infection of the insect can result in a significant decrease in virus titer and transmission over the lifespan of the vector, supportive of a dose-dependent relationship in the virus–vector interaction. These findings demonstrate that plant expression of a viral protein can be an effective way to block virus transmission by insect vectors.
First Report of Bloat Nematode (Ditylenchus dipsaci) Infecting Garlic in Ohio
Authors: Testen A. L. , Walsh E. K. , Taylor C. G. , Miller S. A. , Lopez-Nicora H. D.
Published: January 2014

Bloat nematode, Ditylenchus dipsaci (Kühn) Filipjev (also known as stem and bulb nematode), is a key pest of garlic (Allium sativum) globally (1) as heavy infestations can lead to complete crop loss. Although not a major crop in Ohio, garlic is grown in diversified vegetable production systems. In July 2013, diseased garlic bulbs were received from a grower in Lorain County, OH, from a field with wide symptom distribution. Bulbs were discolored, exhibited splitting, and had basal plate damage including reduced roots. Nematodes were extracted for examination by placing bulb slices in water. Recovered nematodes had morphological characteristics of D. dipsaci, including a short stylet with prominent knobs, a distinct median esophageal bulb, a basal bulb slightly overlapping the intestine, a conical and pointed tail, and males with distinct bursa (1). To confirm the identity of the nematode, further morphological and molecular studies were performed. Nematode images were captured on a DM IRB inverted microscope (Leica Microsystems, Wetzlar, Germany) using a Retiga 2000 camera (Q Imaging, Surrey, Canada). Images were analyzed using Image J (NIH). For females (n = 16), means and ranges were: L = 1,080.1 (972.2 to 1,229.5) μm, a = 36.6 (33.5 to 41.9), b = 6.2 (5.3 to 6.8), c = 11.1 (9.1 to 12.8), and stylet 10.1 (8.9 to 11.2) μm. For males (n = 6), L = 1,589.2 (1,494 to 1,702.7) μm, a = 43.0 (40.7 to 46.0), b = 6.9 (6.4 to 7.3), c = 11.7 (9.2 to 13), with stylet 10.8 (10 to 12.2) μm and spicules 25.2 (23.8 to 26.8) μm. The measurements were highly similar to those of D. dipsaci (1). DNA was extracted from 50 to 100 nematodes using a PowerSoil DNA Isolation Kit (Mo-Bio Laboratories, Inc., Carlsbad, CA) as well as from individual females, and partial ITS sequences were amplified using primer set TW81/AB28 (3). The partial ITS sequences shared 99 to 100% sequence identity with GenBank accessions of D. dipsaci from garlic (DQ452956, JX123258). Expansion segments D2-D3 were sequenced following amplification of DNA from individual females using primer set D2A/D3B (4) and shared 99% sequence identity with D. dipsaci from garlic (FJ707362, JX123259). In this case, the grower noted bloat nematode symptoms following the introduction of new planting material into the field. Therefore, the availability of bloat nematode-free planting material or treated bulbs (2) is essential for preventing introduction of this pathogen. Once established, management options are limited as this nematode is difficult to eliminate. With this first report of D. dipsaci on garlic in Ohio, we have identified a new pest that can greatly reduce garlic yields in this state.

References: (1) W. Nickle, ed. Ditylenchus. In: Manual of Agricultural Nematology, 1991. (2) P. Roberts et al. J. Nematol. 27:448, 1995. (3) S. Subbotin et al. Phytopathology 95:1308, 2005. (4) G. Tenente et al. Nematropica 34:1, 2004.
8-{1-[(4′-Fluoro-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)methyl]piperidin-4-yl}-3,4-dihydroquinolin-2(1H)-one chloroform 0.25-solvate
Authors: Ullah Nisar , Stoeckli-Evans Helen
Published: January 2014

In the asymmetric unit of the title compound, C27H27FN2O·0.25CHCl3, there are two independent molecules (AandB) together with a partially disordered chloroform molecule situated about an inversion center. The conformation of the two molecules is very similar. The bridging piperidine rings each have a chair conformation while the piperidin-2-one rings of the quinoline moiety have screw-boat conformations. The benzene rings of the biphenyl moiety are inclined to one another by 26.37 (4) and 23.75 (15)° in moleculesAandB, respectively. The mean plane of the central piperidine ring [r.m.s. deviation = 0.241 (2) Å in both moleculesAandB] is inclined to the benzene ring of the quinoline moiety by 80.06 (4) inAand 83.75 (15)° inB, while it is inclined to the adjacent benzene ring of the biphenyl group by 73.623 (15) inAand 75.65 (14)° inB. In the crystal, individual molecules are linked by pairs of N—H...O hydrogen bonds, formingA–AandB–Binversion dimers withR22(8) ring motifs. The dimers are stabilized by C—H...O hydrogen bonds and linkedviaC—H...F and C—H...N hydrogen bonds into a three-dimensional network. Several C—H...π interactions are also present.
Acquired idiopathic penile lymphedema: Successful prevention of acute phase progression with low‐dose corticosteroids
Authors: Fujimoto Noriki , Honda Shinichiro , Nakanishi Gen , Tachibana Takao , Tanaka Toshihiro
Published: January 2014

Lymphedema is classified as a congenital disorder or acquired disorder. Common causes of acquired genital lymphedema include surgery, trauma, radiotherapy, neoplastic infiltration, venereal diseases and filariasis. Acquired idiopathic cases are also sometimes observed among genital lymphedema. There is no standard algorithm for the treatment of genital lymphedema. Surgical management for penile lymphedema in the chronic phase was discussed in many previous articles, however, management to prevent progression in the acute phase has been rarely mentioned. We present a case of acquired idiopathic penile lymphedema, in which histological examination was performed and acute phase progression was successfully ceased with low‐dose corticosteroids. This is the first report that proposes the usefulness of low‐dose systemic glucocorticoids for acquired idiopathic penile lymphedema showing rapid progression and histopathological lymphocytic inflammation.
Utilization of matrix‐assisted laser desorption and ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry for identification of infantile seborrheic dermatitis‐causing Malassezia and incidence of culture‐based cutaneous Malassezia microbiota of 1‐month‐old infants
Authors: Yamamoto Mikachi , Umeda Yoshiko , Yo Ayaka , Yamaura Mariko , Makimura Koichi
Published: January 2014

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption and ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF‐MS) has been utilized for identification of various microorganisms. Malassezia species, including Malassezia restricta, which is associated with seborrheic dermatitis, has been difficult to identify by traditional means. This study was performed to develop a system for identification of Malassezia species with MALDI‐TOF‐MS and to investigate the incidence and variety of cutaneous Malassezia microbiota of 1‐month‐old infants using this technique. A Malassezia species‐specific MALDI‐TOF‐MS database was developed from eight standard strains, and the availability of this system was assessed using 54 clinical strains isolated from the skin of 1‐month‐old infants. Clinical isolates were cultured initially on CHROMagar Malassezia growth medium, and the 28S ribosomal DNA (D1/D2) sequence was analyzed for confirmatory identification. Using this database, we detected and analyzed Malassezia species in 68% and 44% of infants with and without infantile seborrheic dermatitis, respectively. The results of MALDI‐TOF‐MS analysis were consistent with those of rDNA sequencing identification (100% accuracy rate). To our knowledge, this is the first report of a MALDI‐TOF‐MS database for major skin pathogenic Malassezia species. This system is an easy, rapid and reliable method for identification of Malassezia.
Essure® for management of hydrosalpinx prior to in vitro fertilisation—a systematic review and pooled analysis
Authors: Arora P , Arora RS , Cahill D
Published: January 2014

Background

Hydrosalpinges in infertile women reduce the success of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) by 50%. Surgical management of hydrosalpinges before IVF improves outcome but these procedures are often contraindicated in women with dense pelvic adhesions. Tubal occlusion achieved by Essure® via hysteroscopy provides an alternative.

Objectives

To conduct a systematic review on the efficacy and safety of Essure® in the management of hydrosalpinx before IVF.

Search strategy

We searched MEDLINE (January 1950 to July 2013), EMBASE (January 1980 to July 2013) and Web of Science (1899 to July 2013). We also searched reference lists of relevant articles and proceedings of relevant international conferences (2000–2013).

Selection criteria

All types of studies where women with suspected infertility and presence of hydrosalpinx had hysteroscopic tubal occlusion with Essure® before IVF.

Data collection and analysis

Two authors independently selected studies and extracted data. Where necessary, study authors were contacted for further data.

Main results

In all, 115 women in 11 studies received Essure®, mainly in the outpatient setting where local anaesthesia by paracervical block and/or intravenous sedation was used. Successful placement of Essure® was achieved in 96.5% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 91.1–98.9%) of women and tubal occlusion in 98.1% (95% CI 93.1–99.9%). Subsequent IVF resulted in 38.6% pregnancy rate (95% CI 30.9–46.8%), 27.9% live birth rate (95% CI 21.1–35.8%) and 28.6% combined ongoing pregnancy and live birth rate (95% CI 21.7–36.6%) per embryo transfer.

Author's conclusions

Essure® appears to be an effective option for management of hydrosalpinx in women before IVF although evidence from a randomised controlled clinical trial is lacking.
Numerous osteoclast‐like giant cells in metastases from lung adenocarcinoma, but absent from primary tumor
Authors: Matsukuma Susumu , Takeo Hiroaki , Kato Kimi , Sato Kimiya
Published: January 2014

We report a rare case of lung adenocarcinoma in a 54‐year‐old man, in whom osteoclast‐like giant cells (OCGCs) were found only in metastases. Autopsy revealed that metastases involving the tongue, gallbladder, stomach, intestines, right adrenal gland, and bones contained numerous OCGCs. Some metastases to the lungs and liver also contained OCGCs, but the primary tumor and metastases to the right atrium, spleen, left adrenal gland, and lymph nodes did not. Primary lung carcinoma cells were positive for cytokeratin 7 (CK7), epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), thyroid transcription factor 1 (TTF‐1), and Napsin A, but were negative for vimentin and CD68. Frequently poorly cohesive metastatic carcinoma cells admixtured with OCGCs showed weak CK7/EMA positivity, no TTF‐1/Napsin A staining, and newly expressed vimentin. OCGCs were positive only for CD68 and vimentin, implying reactive cells. OCGCs can develop only in metastatic lesions, possibly associated with their anaplastic changes or epithelial mesenchymal transition.
Perioperative epidural analgesia reduces cancer recurrence after gastro‐oesophageal surgery
Authors: HILLER J. G. , HACKING M. B. , LINK E. K. , WESSELS K. L. , RIEDEL B. J.
Published: January 2014

Background

Recent interest has focused on the role of perioperative epidural analgesia in improving cancer outcomes. The heterogeneity of studies (tumour type, stage and outcome endpoints) has produced inconsistent results. Clinical practice also highlights the variability in epidural effectiveness. We considered the novel hypothesis that effective epidural analgesia improves cancer outcomes following gastro‐oesophageal cancer surgery in patients with grouped pathological staging.

Methods

Following institutional approval, a database analysis identified 140 patients, with 2‐year minimum follow‐up after gastro‐oesophageal cancer surgery. All patients were operated on by a single surgeon (2005–2010). Information pertaining to cancer and survival outcomes was extracted.

Results

Univariate analysis demonstrated a 1‐year 14% vs. 33% (P = 0.01) and 2‐year 27% vs. 40% [hazard ratio (HR)=0.59; 95% CI, 0.32–1.09, P = 0.087] incidence of cancer recurrence in patients with (vs. without) effective (> 36 h duration) epidural analgesia, respectively. Multivariate analysis demonstrated increased time to cancer recurrence (HR = 0.33; 95% CI: 0.17–0.63, P < 0.0001) and overall survival benefit (HR = 0.42; 95% CI: 0.21–0.83, P < 0.0001) at 2‐year follow‐up following effective epidural analgesia. Subgroup analysis identified epidural‐related cancer recurrence benefit in patients with oesophageal cancer (HR = 0.34; 95% CI: 0.16–0.75, P = 0.005) and in patients with tumour lymphovascular space infiltration (LVSI), (HR = 0.49; 95% CI: 0.26–0.94, P = 0.03). Effective epidural analgesia improved estimated median time to death (2.9 vs. 1.8 years, P = 0.029) in patients with tumour LVSI.

Conclusions

This study found an association between effective post‐operative epidural analgesia and medium‐term benefit on cancer recurrence and survival following oesophageal surgery. A prospective study that controls for disease type, stage and epidural effectiveness is warranted.
Focal congenital hyperinsulinism managed by medical treatment: a diagnostic algorithm based on molecular genetic screening
Authors: Maiorana Arianna , Barbetti Fabrizio , Boiani Arianna , Rufini Vittoria , Pizzoferro Milena , Francalanci Paola , Faletra Flavio , Nichols Colin G. , Grimaldi Chiara , de Ville de Goyet Jean , Rahier Jacques , Henquin Jean‐Claude , Dionisi‐Vici Carlo
Published: January 2014

Objective

Congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI) requires rapid diagnosis and treatment to avoid irreversible neurological sequelae due to hypoglycaemia. Aetiological diagnosis is instrumental in directing the appropriate therapy. Current diagnostic algorithms provide a complete set of diagnostic tools including (i) biochemical assays, (ii) genetic facility and (iii) state‐of‐the‐art imaging. They consider the response to a therapeutic diazoxide trial an early, crucial step before proceeding (or not) to specific genetic testing and eventually imaging, aimed at distinguishing diffuse vs focal CHI. However, interpretation of the diazoxide test is not trivial and can vary between research groups, which may lead to inappropriate decisions. Objective of this report is proposing a new algorithm in which early genetic screening, rather than diazoxide trial, dictates subsequent clinical decisions.

Patients, Methods and Results

Two CHI patients weaned from parenteral glucose infusion and glucagon after starting diazoxide. No hypoglycaemia was registered during a 72‐h continuous glucose monitoring (CGMS), or hypoglycaemic episodes were present for no longer than 3% of 72‐h. Normoglycaemia was obtained by low–medium dose diazoxide combined with frequent carbohydrate feeds for several years. We identified monoallelic, paternally inherited mutations in KATP channel genes, and 18F‐DOPA PET‐CT revealed a focal lesion that was surgically resected, resulting in complete remission of hypoglycaemia.

Conclusions

Although rare, some patients with focal lesions may be responsive to diazoxide. As a consequence, we propose an algorithm that is not based on a ‘formal’ diazoxide response but on genetic testing, in which patients carrying paternally inherited ABCC8 or KCNJ11 mutations should always be subjected to 18F‐DOPA PET‐CT.
Dental implants are a viable alternative for compensating oligodontia in adolescents
Authors: Heuberer Simone , Dvorak Gabriella , Mayer Christine , Watzek Georg , Zechner Werner
Published: January 2014

Objectives

To clinically and radiographically evaluate dental implant treatment in adolescents with extensive oligodontia.

Methods

Patients with more than nine permanent teeth congenitally missing and implant treatment before the age of 16 years were included. Clinical follow‐ups involved bleeding on probing, plaque index and peri‐implant probing value. The peri‐implant bone level was analysed on panoramic radiographs at time of implant treatment and at follow‐up. Characteristics of the dental implants and patients were retrieved.

Results

This study involved 18 patients (nine males, nine females) having 71 dental implants. The lower left premolar was predominantly missing. The mean age at the time of dental implant treatment was 12.5 (±2.6) years. The bleeding on probing value was determined negative on 44%. The mean pocket depth was 3.6 (±1.1) mm. The peri‐implant bone level correlated significantly negative with the age at time of implant placement (r = −0.346, P = 0.004). The region of implant habits had no influence on peri‐implant bone level. Dental implant treatment in adolescents resulted in a survival rate of 89% (63/71) and a mean loading time of 11.0 (±4.1) years. The implant crowns to be renewed resulted in 54% (9 of 18 patients, 38 of 71 crowns) after a period of 7.8 ± 4.5 years.

Conclusion

Dental implant treatment in maturing adolescents with extensive oligodontia before is supported by the data of the present study. Providing that other treatment options are considered, the areas of skeletal growth are respected and the patients are well informed. To enhance quality of life of growing children with oligodontia clinicians are asked to evaluate their long‐term outcome on dental implant treatment in adolescents.
Complexity versus certainty in understanding species' declines
Authors: Sundstrom Shana M. , Allen Craig R.
Published: January 2014

Aim

Our understanding of and ability to predict species declines is limited, despite decades of study. We sought to expand our understanding of species declines within a regional landscape by testing models using both traditional hypotheses and those derived from a complex adaptive systems approach.

Location

Our study area was the dry mixed grassland of south‐eastern Alberta, Canada, one of the largest remnants of native grassland in North America, and the adjacent grassland in Saskatchewan.

Methods

We used the breeding birds of the grassland to test the relationship between species declines and a suite of traits associated with decline (such as size, specialization and rarity, as well as distance to edge of a discontinuity, and edge of geographic range) in a stepwise regression with AICc values and bootstrapping via model averaging, followed by a refit procedure to obtain model‐averaged parameter estimates. We used both provincial government and Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) classifications of decline. We also modelled degree of decline in the Alberta and Saskatchewan grasslands, which differ in amount of habitat remaining, to test whether severity of decline was explained by the same traits as species decline/not‐ decline.

Results

We found that the model for government‐defined decline fulfilled government expectations that species' extinction risk is a function of being large, specialized, rare and carnivorous, whereas the model for BBS‐defined decline suggested that the biological reality of decline is more complex, requiring the need to explicitly model scale‐specific patterns. Furthermore, species decline/not‐ decline was explained by different traits than those that fit degree of decline, though complex systems‐ derived traits featured in both sets of models.

Main conclusions

Traditional approaches to predict species declines (e.g. government processes or IUCN Red Lists), may be too simplistic and may therefore misguide management and conservation. Using complex systems approaches that account for scale‐specific patterns and processes have the potential to overcome these limitations.
The development of social strengths in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Adolfsson Margareta
Published: January 2014

This commentary is on the original article by Tan et al. on pages 370–377 of this issue.
Hypothermia Protects Human Neurons
Authors: Antonic Ana , Dottori Mirella , Leung Jessie , Sidon Kate , Batchelor Peter E. , Wilson William , Macleod Malcolm R. , Howells David W.
Published: January 2014

Background and Aims

Hypothermia provides neuroprotection after cardiac arrest, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, and in animal models of ischemic stroke. However, as drug development for stroke has been beset by translational failure, we sought additional evidence that hypothermia protects human neurons against ischemic injury.

Methods

Human embryonic stem cells were cultured and differentiated to provide a source of neurons expressing β III tubulin, microtubule-associated protein 2, and the Neuronal Nuclei antigen. Oxygen deprivation, oxygen-glucose deprivation, and H2O2-induced oxidative stress were used to induce relevant injury.

Results

Hypothermia to 33°C protected these human neurons against H2O2-induced oxidative stress reducing lactate dehydrogenase release and Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling-staining by 53% ( P ≤ 0·0001; 95% confidence interval 34·8–71·04) and 42% ( P ≤ 0·0001; 95% confidence interval 27·5–56·6), respectively, after 24 h in culture. Hypothermia provided similar protection against oxygen-glucose deprivation (42%, P ≤ 0·001, 95% confidence interval 18·3–71·3 and 26%, P ≤ 0·001; 95% confidence interval 12·4–52·2, respectively) but provided no protection against oxygen deprivation alone. Protection (21%) persisted against H2O2-induced oxidative stress even when hypothermia was initiated six-hours after onset of injury ( P ≤ 0·05; 95% confidence interval 0·57–43·1).

Conclusion

We conclude that hypothermia protects stem cell-derived human neurons against insults relevant to stroke over a clinically relevant time frame. Protection against H2O2-induced injury and combined oxygen and glucose deprivation but not against oxygen deprivation alone suggests an interaction in which protection benefits from reduction in available glucose under some but not all circumstances.
The geographic scaling of biotic interactions
Authors: Araújo Miguel B. , Rozenfeld Alejandro
Published: January 2014

A central tenet of ecology and biogeography is that the broad outlines of species ranges are determined by climate, whereas the effects of biotic interactions are manifested at local scales. While the first proposition is supported by ample evidence, the second is still a matter of controversy. To address this question, we develop a mathematical model that predicts the spatial overlap, i.e. co‐occurrence, between pairs of species subject to all possible types of interactions. We then identify the scale of resolution in which predicted range overlaps are lost. We found that co‐occurrence arising from positive interactions, such as mutualism (+/+) and commensalism (+/0), are manifested across scales. Negative interactions, such as competition (−/−) and amensalism (−/0), generate checkerboard patterns of co‐occurrence that are discernible at finer resolutions but that are lost and increasing scales of resolution. Scale dependence in consumer–resource interactions (+/−) depends on the strength of positive dependencies between species. If the net positive effect is greater than the net negative effect, then interactions scale up similarly to positive interactions. Our results challenge the widely held view that climate alone is sufficient to characterize species distributions at broad scales, but also demonstrate that the spatial signature of competition is unlikely to be discernible beyond local and regional scales.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Ferroelectric Mixed Potassium Niobate–Lead Titanate Nanoparticles
Authors: Delahaye Thierry , Al‐Zein Ali , Berger Marie‐Hélène , Bril Xavier , Hochepied Jean‐François
Published: January 2014

Potassium niobate–lead titanate solid‐solution nanoparticles have been synthesized using a new hydrothermal method. The key step is an in situ acid–base exothermic reaction with a large excess of KOH, generating an amorphous precipitated gel. This gel, when crystallized in an autoclave for 2 h at 190°C, produces a mixed perovskite solid solution with [KNbO3]0.8–[PbTiO3]0.2 (KNPT) composition, and parallelepiped particles rang in size from a few tens to a few hundreds of nanometer in length. This study proves that the pure perovskite phase can be obtained in spite of the different solubilities of the reactive cations in an ethanol–water solution. Dielectric measurements show that KNPT ceramic with a grain size of 50 nm is ferroelectric at room temperature. In addition, ceramics sintered at 950°C have an average grain size of 500 nm, and exhibit a maximum permittivity of 2100 at 1 kHz near TC = 510 K and a remanent polarization Pr = 12 μC/cm2
Feeling safe during an inpatient hospitalization: a concept analysis
Authors: Mollon Deene
Published: January 2014

Aim

This paper aims to explore the critical attributes of the concept feeling safe.

Background

The safe delivery of care is a high priority; however; it is not really known what it means to the patient to ‘feel safe’ during an inpatient hospitalization. This analysis explores the topic of safety from the patient's perspective.

Design

Concept analysis.

Data sources

The data bases of CINAHL, Medline, PsychInfo and Google Scholar for the years 1995–2012 were searched using the terms safe and feeling safe.

Methods

The eight‐step concept analysis method of Walker and Avant was used to analyse the concept of feeling safe. Uses and defining attributes, as well as identified antecedents, consequences and empirical referents, are presented. Case examples are provided to assist in the understanding of defining attributes.

Results

Feeling safe is defined as an emotional state where perceptions of care contribute to a sense of security and freedom from harm. Four attributes were identified: trust, cared for, presence and knowledge. Relationship, environment and suffering are the antecedents of feeling safe, while control, hope and relaxed or calm are the consequences. Empirical referents and early development of a theory of feeling safe are explored.

Conclusion

This analysis begins the work of synthesizing qualitative research already completed around the concept of feeling safe by defining the key attributes of the concept. Support for the importance of developing patient‐centred models of care and creating positive environments where patients receive high‐quality care and feel safe is provided.
Mechanism of hybridization between breamAbramis bramaand roachRutilus rutilusin their native range
Authors: Kuparinen A. , Vinni M. , Teacher A. G. F. , Kähkönen K. , Merilä J.
Published: January 2014

Mechanisms of hybridization between breamAbramis bramaand roachRutilus rutiluswere studied within the native range of the species in a lake in southern Finland. Through the genetic analysis ofA. brama,R. rutilusand putative hybrids, hybridization is shown to have occurred between femaleA. bramaand maleR. rutilus. These results match with previous findings from introduced habitats, suggesting that mating between femaleA. bramaand maleR. rutilusis the predominant mechanism through which the two species hybridize.
Synergistic Effect of Propolis and Heat Treatment Leading to Increased Injury to Escherichia coli O157:H7 in Ground Pork
Authors: Kim Youn‐Ha , Kim Sang‐A , Chung Hyun‐Jung
Published: January 2014

This study was conducted to determine the thermal inactivation of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in the presence of propolis in culture and in ground pork. Overnight cultures (∼106 cfu/mL) or inoculated ground pork (1.0 g, ∼106 cfu/g) were heat treated at 57, 60 and 63 ± 0.1C for predetermined times. The surviving cell populations were enumerated on appropriate media, from which D and z values were determined. The D values for E. coli O157:H7 in broth were 7.33 ± 1.33, 1.34 ± 0.29 and 0.85 ± 0.04 min, respectively (z = 6.4C), whereas in the presence of propolis (8.98 mg/mL), the D values were 0.53 ± 0.02, 0.25 ± 0.00 and 0.17 ± 0.00 min (z = 10.3C). For ground pork, the D values of E. coli O157:H7 were 4.88 ± 0.23, 0.77 ± 0.00 and 0.37 ± 0.00 min, respectively (z = 5.4C), whereas the D values in the presence of propolis (35.92 mg/g) were 2.98 ± 0.02, 0.46 ± 0.03 and 0.26 ± 0.02 min (z = 5.5C). Thermal injury was more pronounced in the presence of propolis at all temperatures. These data suggest that propolis and heat treatment may have a synergistic effect that could have potential applications in the case of meat products.

Practical Applications

The addition of propolis to Escherichia coli in broth and meat rendered the pathogen more sensitive to the lethal effects of heat at all temperatures, resulting in smaller D values than those obtained with E. coli heat treated alone in both culture and meat samples. These data suggest that propolis and heat treatment may have a synergistic effect that could have potential applications for meat products.
Bioluminescence microscopy using a short focal‐length imaging lens
Authors: OGOH K. , AKIYOSHI R. , MAY‐MAW‐THET  , SUGIYAMA T. , DOSAKA S. , HATTA‐OHASHI Y. , SUZUKI H.
Published: January 2014

Bioluminescence from cells is so dim that bioluminescence microscopy is performed using an ultra low‐light imaging camera. Although the image sensor of such cameras has been greatly improved over time, such improvements have not been made commercially available for microscopes until now. Here, we customized the optical system of a microscope for bioluminescence imaging. As a result, bioluminescence images of cells could be captured with a conventional objective lens and colour imaging camera. As bioluminescence microscopy requires no excitation light, it lacks the photo‐toxicity associated with fluorescence imaging and permits the long‐term, nonlethal observation of living cells. Thus, bioluminescence microscopy would be a powerful tool in cellular biology that complements fluorescence microscopy.