bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liver sharing and organ procurement organization performance under redistricted allocation
Authors: Gentry Sommer E. , Chow Eric K. H. , Massie Allan , Luo Xun , Shteyn Eugene , Pyke Joshua , Zaun David , Snyder Jon J. , Israni Ajay K. , Kasiske Bert , Segev Dorry L.
Published: May 2015

Concerns have been raised that optimized redistricting of liver allocation areas might have the unintended result of shifting livers from better‐performing to poorer‐performing organ procurement organizations (OPOs). We used liver simulated allocation modeling to simulate a 5‐year period of liver sharing within either 4 or 8 optimized districts. We investigated whether each OPO's net liver import under redistricting would be correlated with 2 OPO performance metrics (observed to expected liver yield and liver donor conversion ratio), along with 2 other potential correlates (eligible deaths and incident listings above a Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score of 15). We found no evidence that livers would flow from better‐performing OPOs to poorer‐performing OPOs in either redistricting scenario. Instead, under these optimized redistricting plans, our simulations suggest that livers would flow from OPOs with more‐than‐expected eligible deaths toward those with fewer‐than‐expected eligible deaths and that livers would flow from OPOs with fewer‐than‐expected incident listings to those with more‐than‐expected incident listings; the latter is a pattern that is already established in the current allocation system. Redistricting liver distribution to reduce geographic inequity is expected to align liver allocation across the country with the distribution of supply and demand rather than transferring livers from better‐performing OPOs to poorer‐performing OPOs. Liver Transpl 21:1031‐1039, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
Renal function improvement in liver transplant recipients after early everolimus conversion: A clinical practice cohort study in Spain
Authors: Bilbao Itxarone , Salcedo Magdalena , Gómez Miguel Angel , Jimenez Carlos , Castroagudín Javier , Fabregat Joan , Almohalla Carolina , Herrero Ignacio , Cuervas‐Mons Valentín , Otero Alejandra , Rubín Angel , Miras Manuel , Rodrigo Juan , Serrano Trinidad , Crespo Gonzalo , Mata Manuel De la , Bustamante Javier , Gonzalez‐Dieguez M. Luisa , Moreno Antonia , Narvaez Isidoro , Guilera Magda ,   for the EVEROLIVER study group
Published: May 2015

A national, multicenter, retrospective study was conducted to assess the results obtained for liver transplant recipients with conversion to everolimus in daily practice. The study included 477 recipients (481 transplantations). Indications for conversion to everolimus were renal dysfunction (32.6% of cases), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC; 30.2%; prophylactic treatment for 68.9%), and de novo malignancy (29.7%). The median time from transplantation to conversion to everolimus was 68.7 months for de novo malignancy, 23.8 months for renal dysfunction, and 7.1 months for HCC and other indications. During the first year of treatment, mean everolimus trough levels were 5.4 (standard deviation [SD], 2.7) ng/mL and doses remained stable (1.5 mg/day) from the first month after conversion. An everolimus monotherapy regimen was followed by 28.5% of patients at 12 months. Patients with renal dysfunction showed a glomerular filtration rate (4‐variable Modification of Diet in Renal Disease) increase of 10.9 mL (baseline mean, 45.8 [SD, 25.3] versus 57.6 [SD, 27.6] mL/minute/1.73 m2) at 3 months after everolimus initiation (P < 0.001), and 6.8 mL at 12 months. Improvement in renal function was higher in patients with early conversion (<1 year). Adverse events were the primary reason for discontinuation in 11.2% of cases. The probability of survival at 3 years after conversion to everolimus was 83.0%, 71.1%, and 59.5% for the renal dysfunction, de novo malignancy, and HCC groups, respectively. Everolimus is a viable option for the treatment of renal dysfunction, and earlier conversion is associated with better recovery of renal function. Prospective studies are needed to confirm advantages in patients with malignancy. Liver Transpl 21:1056‐1065, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
Biliary complications in pediatric liver transplantation: Incidence and management over a decade
Authors: Laurence Jerome M. , Sapisochin Gonzalo , DeAngelis Maria , Seal John B. , Miserachs Mar M. , Marquez Max , Zair Murtuza , Fecteau Annie , Jones Nicola , Hrycko Alexander , Avitzur Yaron , Ling Simon C. , Ng Vicky , Cattral Mark , Grant David , Kamath Binita M. , Ghanekar Anand
Published: May 2015

This study analyzed how features of a liver graft and the technique of biliary reconstruction interact to affect biliary complications in pediatric liver transplantation. A retrospective analysis was performed of data collected from 2001 to 2011 in a single high‐volume North American pediatric transplant center. The study cohort comprised 173 pediatric recipients, 75 living donor (LD) and 98 deceased donor (DD) recipients. The median follow‐up was 70 months. Twenty‐nine (16.7%) patients suffered a biliary complication. The majority of leaks (9/12, 75.0%) and the majority of strictures (18/22, 81.8%) were anastomotic. There was no difference in the rate of biliary complications associated with DD (18.4%) and LD (14.7%) grafts (P = 0.55). Roux‐en‐Y (RY) reconstruction was associated with a significantly lower rate of biliary complications compared to duct‐to‐duct reconstruction (13.3% versus 28.2%, respectively; P = 0.048). RY anastomosis was the only significant factor protecting from biliary complications in our population (hazard ratio, 0.30; 95% confidence interval, 0.1‐0.85). The leaks were managed primarily by relaparotomy (10/12, 83.3%), and the majority of strictures were managed by percutaneous biliary intervention (14/22, 63.6%). Patients suffering biliary complications had inferior graft survival (P = 0.04) at 1, 5, and 10 years compared to patients without biliary complications. Our analysis demonstrates a lower incidence of biliary complications with RY biliary reconstruction, and patients with biliary complications have decreased graft survival. Liver Transpl 21:1082‐1090, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
A Baseline Model for the Simulation of Polyurethane Foams via the Population Balance Equation
Authors: Karimi Mohsen , Marchisio Daniele L.
Published: May 2015

In this work, a novel approach, based on the population balance equation (PBE), is presented and applied for the first time to the simulation of expanding polyurethane foams. The solution of the PBE allows to determine the evolution of the bubble size distribution (BSD) of the foam, which in turn defines the mechanical and thermal properties. The approach includes a kinetic model for the polymerization and blowing reactions, accounts for the presence of a physical blowing and for the total energy balance. Model predictions are compared with experiments from the literature for 12 different chemical recipes, highlighting acceptable agreement.
Vesicle‐Like Globules of Amphiphilic Macromolecules
Authors: Glagoleva Anna A. , Vasilevskaya Valentina V. , Khokhlov Alexei R.
Published: May 2015

By means of computer simulation, we have investigated self‐organization of a single macromolecule being amphiphilic on the level of an individual monomer unit. It was demonstrated first, that in selective solvent such macromolecules are able to form spontaneously spherical vesicle‐like globules having empty cavity in their center and dense shell on their surface.
Hypothetical Purchase Task Questionnaires for Behavioral Economic Assessments of Value and Motivation
Authors: Roma Peter G. , Hursh Steven R. , Hudja Stanton
Published: May 2015

We tested effects of hypothetical purchase task (HPT) questionnaire price density (17, 9, or 5 prices) and purchase type (quantity purchased or probability of single purchase) on behavioral economic (BE) measures of value for six commodities. The exponential model of demand provided excellent fits for all HPTs (meanR2 = 0.98). High density HPTs were most sensitive yet most resistant to distortion. BE value measures were lower in quantity versus probability HPTs. Rank ordering of commodity values agreed regardless of HPT structural manipulations. Expenditure curves were unexpectedly bimodal, but consistent with exponential model predictions. Implications for HPT construction and BE research are discussed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
What Consumers Maximize: Brand Choice as a Function of Utilitarian and Informational Reinforcement
Authors: Oliveira‐Castro Jorge M. , Cavalcanti Paulo R. , Foxall Gordon R.
Published: May 2015

Models of brand choice have not explained the formation of brand repertoires nor heterogeneity in consumers' preferences. Based upon the Behavioral Perspective Model, the present research proposed that consumers maximize utility as a function of the level of utilitarian (functional) and informational (social) reinforcement offered by brands. A model of consumer choice, which applied a Cobb–Douglas utility function to the parameters that constitute the Behavioral Perspective Model, was constructed and data from a consumer panel, including information from more than 1200 consumers purchasing four food products during 52 weeks, were used to test the model. The model fits the data well, showing consistent parameters and stable individual differences in utility across time. Results indicate that consumers maximize utilitarian and informational reinforcement when choosing brands. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Systematic Review of Histone Lysine‐Specific Demethylase 1 and Its Inhibitors
Authors: Zheng Yi‐Chao , Ma Jinlian , Wang Zhiru , Li Jinfeng , Jiang Bailing , Zhou Wenjuan , Shi Xiaojing , Wang Xixin , Zhao Wen , Liu Hong‐Min
Published: May 2015

Histone lysine‐specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) is the first discovered and reported histone demethylase by Dr. Shi Yang's group in 2004. It is classified as a member of amine oxidase superfamily, the common feature of which is using the flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) as its cofactor. Since it is located in cell nucleus and acts as a histone methylation eraser, LSD1 specifically removes mono‐ or dimethylated histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4) and H3 lysine 9 (H3K9) through formaldehyde‐generating oxidation. It has been indicated that LSD1 and its downstream targets are involved in a wide range of biological courses, including embryonic development and tumor‐cell growth and metastasis. LSD1 has been reported to be overexpressed in variety of tumors. Inactivating LSD1 or downregulating its expression inhibits cancer‐cell development. LSD1 targeting inhibitors may represent a new insight in anticancer drug discovery. This review summarizes recent studies about LSD1 and mainly focuses on the basic physiological function of LSD1 and its involved mechanisms in pathophysiologic conditions, as well as the development of LSD1 inhibitors as potential anticancer therapeutic agents.
Global attractor for suspension bridge equations with memory
Authors: Kang Jum‐Ran
Published: May 2015

This paper is concerned with a suspension bridge equation with memory effects
, defined in a bounded domain of
. For the suspension bridge equation without memory, there are many classical results. Existing results mainly devoted to existence and uniqueness of a weak solution, energy decay of solution and existence of global attractors. However the existence of global attractors for the suspension bridge equation with memory was no yet considered. The object of the present paper is to provide some results on the well‐posedness and long‐time behavior to the suspension bridge equation in a more with past history. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Global attractors for the coupled suspension bridge system with temperature
Authors: Dell'Oro Filippo , Giorgi Claudio
Published: May 2015

This paper deals with the long‐term properties of the thermoelastic nonlinear string‐beam system related to the well‐known Lazer–McKenna suspension bridge model

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma3526:mma3526-math-0001
In particular, no mechanical dissipation occurs in the equations, because the loss of energy is entirely due to thermal effects. The existence of regular global attractors for the associated solution semigroup is proved (without resorting to a bootstrap argument) for time‐independent supplies f,g,h and any
. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New (3+1)‐dimensional nonlinear equations with KdV equation constituting its main part: multiple soliton solutions
Authors: Wazwaz Abdul‐Majid
Published: May 2015

In thiswork,we present two new(3+1)‐dimensional nonlinear equationswith Korteweg‐de Vries equation constituting its main part. We show that the dispersive relation is distinct for each model, whereas the phase shift remains the same. We determine multiple solitons solutions, with distinct physical structures, for each established equation. The architectures of the simplified Hirota's method is implemented in this paper. The constraint conditions that fall out which must remain valid in order for themultiple solitons to exist are derived.Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improved T1, contrast concentration, and pharmacokinetic parameter quantification in the presence of fat with two‐point dixon for dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Le Yuan , Dale Brian , Akisik Fatih , Koons Karen , Lin Chen
Published: May 2015

Purpose

To evaluate the impact of fat and fat‐suppression on the quantification of T1, gadolinium concentration, and pharmacokinetic parameters in DCE‐MRI.

Methods

T1 values were measured in fat‐free phantoms using variable flip angle with no fat suppression, quick or interleaved fat saturation (QFS), or two‐point Dixon and were compared with reference values measured with inversion recovery–prepared turbo spin echo. Relaxivity of gadolinium‐benzyloxypropionictetraacetate (Gd‐BOPTA) was measured in emulsions of Gd‐BOPTA solution and fat using Dixon in‐phase and water‐only images. Liver T1 and pharmacokinetic parameters of 15 patients were calculated from Dixon in‐phase and water‐only images and were correlated with liver fat signal fraction.

Results

T1 values measured using Dixon water‐only and non–fat‐suppressed images matched the reference values; while T1 values measured using QFS showed large deviations. Relaxivities and Gd measured in the Dixon water‐only images were less affected by the fat than those measured in the in‐phase images. The correlation between liver fat fraction and the differences in measured pharmacokinetic parameters using Dixon in‐phase and water‐only images were significant (P < 0.05) for T1, Ktrans, and incremental area under the curve, but not Ve (P = 0.1).

Conclusion

Dixon water‐only images provided more reliable estimation of T1, Gd, and pharmacokinetic parameters when fat was present. Magn Reson Med 75:1677–1684, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Joint estimation of chemical shift and quantitative susceptibility mapping (chemical QSM)
Authors: Dimov Alexey V. , Liu Tian , Spincemaille Pascal , Ecanow Jacob S. , Tan Huan , Edelman Robert R. , Wang Yi
Published: May 2015

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to address the unsolved problem of quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) of tissue with fat where both fat and susceptibility change the MR signal phase.

Theory and Methods

The chemical shift of fat was treated as an additional unknown and was estimated jointly with susceptibility to provide the best data fitting using an automated and iterative algorithm. A simplified susceptibility model was used to calculate an updated value of the chemical shift based on the local magnetic field in each iteration. Numerical simulation, phantom experiments and in vivo imaging were performed. Artifacts were assessed by measuring the susceptibility variance in uniform regions. Accuracy was assessed by comparison with ground truth in simulation, and using a susceptibility matching approach in phantom.

Results

Using the proposed method, artifacts on the QSM image were markedly suppressed in all tested datasets compared with results generated using fixed chemical shifts. Accuracy of the estimated susceptibility was also improved in numerical simulation and phantom experiments.

Conclusion

A joint estimation of fat content and magnetic susceptibility using an iterative chemical shift update was shown to improve image quality and accuracy on QSM images. Magn Reson Med 73:2100–2110, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Relationship between Quantified Instrumental Swallowing Examination and Comprehensive Clinical Swallowing Examination
Authors: Oh Jong‐Chi , Park Ji‐Hyuk , Jung Min‐Ye , Yoo Eun‐Young , Chang Ki‐Yeon , Lee Teak‐Young
Published: May 2015

The aim of this study was to identify the correlation between the Mann Assessment of Swallowing Ability (MASA) and the Videofluoroscopic Dysphagia Scale (VDS) to investigate the applicability of the MASA as a follow‐up test of swallowing function. Criterion validity was assessed for MASA results versus VDS scores of tests administered to 54 patients who had a stroke and dysphagia. A significant correlation was found between the MASA and the VDS (correlation coefficient = −0.509). In analyses of test–re‐test reliability and inter‐rater reliability of the scoring scale, intraclass correlation coefficients (2, 1) were high (0.98, 0.99). In conclusion, the results of the present study indicate that the MASA holds adequate clinical test–re‐test and inter‐rater reliabilities and criterion validity for measuring the swallowing abilities of Korean patients who had a stroke and dysphagia. The MASA could contribute to more systematic management of swallowing problems and efficient therapeutic service. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Specific chemotherapeutic agents induce metastatic behaviour through stromal‐ and tumour‐derived cytokine and angiogenic factor signalling
Authors: Liu Guanghua , Chen Yang , Qi Feifei , Jia Lin , Lu Xin‐an , He Ting , Fu Yan , Li Lin , Luo Yongzhang
Published: May 2015

Recent studies reveal that chemotherapy can enhance metastasis due to host responses, such as augmented expression of adhesion molecules in endothelial cells and increased populations of myeloid cells. However, it is still unclear how tumour cells contribute to this process. Here, we observed that paclitaxel and carboplatin accelerated lung metastasis in tumour‐bearing mice, while doxorubicin and fluorouracil did not. Mechanistically, paclitaxel and carboplatin induced similar changes in cytokine and angiogenic factors. Increased levels of CXCR2, CXCR4, S1P/S1PR1, PlGF and PDGF‐BB were identified in the serum or primary tumour tissues of tumour‐bearing mice treated by paclitaxel. The serum levels of CXCL1 and PDGF‐BB and the tissue level of CXCR4 were also elevated by carboplatin. On the other hand, doxorubicin and fluorouracil did not induce such changes. The chemotherapy‐induced cytokine and angiogenic factor changes were also confirmed in gene expression datasets from human patients following chemotherapy treatment. These chemotherapy‐enhanced cytokines and angiogenic factors further induced angiogenesis, destabilized vascular integrity, recruited BMDCs to metastatic organs and mediated the proliferation, migration and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition of tumour cells. Interestingly, inhibitors of these factors counteracted chemotherapy‐enhanced metastasis in both tumour‐bearing mice and normal mice injected intravenously with B16F10–GFP cells. In particular, blockade of the SDF‐1α–CXCR4 or S1P–S1PR1 axes not only compromised chemotherapy‐induced metastasis but also prolonged the median survival time by 33.9% and 40.3%, respectively. The current study delineates the mechanism of chemotherapy‐induced metastasis and provides novel therapeutic strategies to counterbalance pro‐metastatic effects of chemo‐drugs via combination treatment with anti‐cytokine/anti‐angiogenic therapy. Copyright © 2015 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physical activity level is not a determinant of autonomic nervous system activity and clinical severity in children/adolescents with sickle cell anemia: A pilot study
Authors: Charlot Keyne , Moeckesch Berenike , Jumet Stéphane , Romana Marc , Waltz Xavier , Divialle‐Doumdo Lydia , Hardy‐Dessources Marie‐Dominique , Petras Marie , Tressières Benoît , Pichon Aurélien , Tarer Vanessa , Hue Olivier , Etienne‐Julan Maryse , Antoine‐Jonville Sophie , Connes Philippe
Published: May 2015

Background

Autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity has been suggested to modulate the clinical severity of sickle cell anemia (SCA) by increasing the risk for vaso‐occlusive events. Regular physical activity (PA) is known to improve ANS activity and health status in several cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Whether regular PA improves the health status of SCA patients remains unknown.

Procedure

Twenty‐two patients with SCA and 15 healthy (AA) children/adolescents participated to the study. Heart rate variability was measured in supine position and after a tilt‐test to quantify the ANS activity. PA energy expenditure (PAEE) was assessed with questionnaire.

Results

1) PAEE was lower in SCA compared to AA (190 ± 152 vs. 432 ± 277 kcal·d−1, respectively, P < 0.01), 2) overall ANS activity was lower in SCA compared to AA, 3) parasympathetic withdrawal was observed in SCA with aging, 4) ANS reactivity was slightly impaired in SCA compared to AA (reduction in HFnu: −38 ± 27 vs. −58 ± 14%, respectively, P < 0.05), 5) ANS indices, PAEE, and rates of clinical events were not correlated.

Conclusion

Both the level of PA and ANS activity are reduced in SCA compared to AA children/adolescents, particularly in those older than 15 years. Neither PAEE, nor ANS activity seem to influence the clinical severity of children/adolescents with SCA. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The association of crown‐rump length discrepancy with birthweight discordance in spontaneous versus IVF monochorionic twins: a multicenter study
Authors: Ben‐Ami Ido , Daniel‐Spiegel Etty , Battino Shlomo , Melcer Yaakov , Floeck Anne , Geipel Annegret , Miron Pierre , Maymon Ron
Published: May 2015

Objective

The objective of this study was to compare the associations of crown‐rump length (CRL) discrepancy with birthweight discordance in spontaneous versus in vitro fertilization (IVF) monochorionic (MC) twin pregnancies.

Method

This is a multicenter retrospective study on women with twin pregnancies assessed for nuchal translucency between January 1997 and July 2013. The study group was subdivided into MC twins conceived spontaneously and after IVF. Pregnancies with later fetal death or twin transfusion syndrome were excluded. A large‐weight discordance was defined as a difference of birthweights of >15%.

Results

The study group included 171 pregnancies; of them, 142 (83%) were spontaneous and 29 (17%) were IVF conceived. In the entire cohort, we found a significant correlation between birthweight discordance and CRL discrepancy (r = 0.173, P < 0.05). While a significant correlation was found between CRL discrepancy and birthweight discordance in spontaneous‐conceived pregnancies (n = 142, r = 0.24, P = 0.005), such correlation was not present in IVF pregnancies (n = 29, r = −0.7, P = 0.724). A logistic regression analysis found significant odds of larger‐weight discordance for each increase of 1% in CRL discrepancy among spontaneously conceived pregnancies (odds ratio = 1.1, confidence interval = 1.03–1.2, P = 0.005). A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) for large‐weight discordance in the spontaneously conceived pregnancies demonstrated an area under the ROC curve of 0.613 (P = 0.039).

Conclusion

The significant correlation between CRL discrepancy and birthweight discordance in spontaneous versus IVF MC twin pregnancies might suggest differential monozygotic twinning process. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Understanding the Dark Side of Costly Punishment: The Impact of Individual Differences in Everyday Sadism and Existential Threat
Authors: Pfattheicher Stefan , Schindler Simon
Published: May 2015

In public goods situations, a specific destructive behaviour reliably emerges when individuals face the possibility of costly punishing others: antisocial punishment, that is, costly punishing cooperative individuals. So far, however, little is known about the individual differences and situational factors that are associated with the dark side of costly punishment. This research deals with this shortcoming. We argue that antisocial punishment reflects the basic characteristics of sadism, namely, aggressive behaviour to dominate and to harm other individuals. We further argue that antisocial punishment may reflect a type of behaviour that allows for the maintenance of self–esteem (through aggressively dominating others). Therefore, we expect that individuals who report a disposition for everyday sadism are particularly likely to engage in antisocial punishment when their self has been threatened (by thinking about one's own death). In a study ( N = 99), we found empirical support for this assumption. The present research contributes to a better understanding of antisocial punishment and suggests that sadistic tendencies play a crucial role, especially when the self is (existentially) threatened. Copyright © 2015 European Association of Personality Psychology
The Rocky Road to Legacy: Lessons from the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa Stadium Program
Authors: Molloy Eamonn , Chetty Trish
Published: May 2015

This article describes how the management and organization of the South African 2010 FIFA World Cup stadium program shaped the current legacy of an oversupply of overdesigned and underutilized stadiums. The article identifies seven key factors that explain the differences between expected benefits and the actual legacy. Identification of these factors contributes to the increasing academic interest in explaining the poor legacy outcomes of mega-events. In conclusion, we recommend that future host country governments defragment their stadium programs by establishing a World Cup Delivery Authority (WCDA), with responsibility for the leadership and coordination of the stadium program.
Religious beliefs, practices, and health in colorectal cancer patients in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Shaheen Al Ahwal Mahmoud , Al Zaben Faten , Sehlo Mohammad Gamal , Khalifa Doaa Ahmed , Koenig Harold G.
Published: May 2015

Objective

Colorectal cancer (CRC) patients experience considerable psychological stress because of changes brought on by their illness. Religion may be a resource for such patients. We examined the prevalence of religious beliefs and practices in CRC patients and correlation with demographic, social, psychological, and physical health characteristics.

Methods

Seventy CRC patients (all Muslim) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, were surveyed using a 13‐item Muslim religiosity scale. Standard measures were used to assess depressive symptoms, depressive disorder, and social support; demographic and social factors, psychiatric history, and disease factors were also measured.

Results

All 70 participants (100%) engaged in group worship and prayer (Fard) five times/day, and 75.7% never skipped or combined two or more obligatory prayers; 71.4% read or recited the Qur'an several times/week or daily; 80.0% gave money to the poor each year (Zakat); 71.4% fasted throughout the month of Ramadan (Sawm) and other times as well; 91.4% said they ‘definitely’ experienced the presence of Allah; and 74.3% said their entire approach to life was definitely based on their religious beliefs. Overall religiosity was inversely related to depressive symptoms (B = −0.58, SE = 0.30, p = 0.026) and suicidal ideation (B = −0.07, SE = 0.03, p = 0.025), after controlling for financial status and social factors.

Conclusions

Religious involvement was widespread in this sample of CRC patients in Saudi Arabia and was related to fewer depressive symptoms and less suicidal ideation. No relationship was found with stage of disease or duration of treatment. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
HgGa2Se4 under high pressure: An optical absorption study
Authors: Gomis O. , Vilaplana R. , Manjón F. J. , Ruiz‐Fuertes J. , Pérez‐González E. , López‐Solano J. , Bandiello E. , Errandonea D. , Segura A. , Rodríguez‐Hernández P. , Muñoz A. , Ursaki V. V. , Tiginyanu I. M.
Published: May 2015

High‐pressure optical absorption measurements have been performed in defect chalcopyrite HgGa2Se4 to investigate the influence of pressure on the bandgap energy and its relation with the pressure‐induced order–disorder processes that occur in this ordered‐vacancy compound. Two different experiments have been carried out in which the sample undergoes either a partial or a total pressure‐induced disorder process at 15.4 and 30.8 GPa, respectively. It has been found that the direct bandgap energies of the recovered samples at 1 GPa were around 0.15 and 0.23 eV smaller than that of the original sample, respectively, and that both recovered samples have different pressure coefficients of the direct bandgap than the original sample. A comprehensive explanation for these results on the basis of pressure‐induced order–disorder processes is provided.
First principles study of isostructural phase transition in Sb2Te3 under high pressure
Authors: Zhao Kun , Wang Yi , Sui Yu , Xin Chao , Wang Xianjie , Wang Yang , Liu Zhiguo , Li Bingsheng
Published: May 2015

The structural properties, electronic band structure and Bader charge of Sb2Te3 under hydrostatic pressure were simulated using density functional theory in order to study isostructural phase transitions (IPT) in Sb2Te3. The theoretical results showed that the axial ratio c /a did not exhibit any anomaly below 6 GPa. The variations of bond lengths were discontinuous at 2.5 GPa, which suggested considerable changes in interatomic interactions and provided sound support to the IPT. The effective charges of Sb and Te atoms showed significant discontinuous variations at 2.5 GPa, which revealed a strong redistribution of the electronic charge density and considerably changed interactions among bonding atoms. Thus, the IPT is originated from the considerable variation in the electronic charge density. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Publication bias in meta‐analyses from the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Authors: Kicinski Michal , Springate David A. , Kontopantelis Evangelos
Published: May 2015

We used a Bayesian hierarchical selection model to study publication bias in 1106 meta‐analyses from the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews comparing treatment with either placebo or no treatment. For meta‐analyses of efficacy, we estimated the ratio of the probability of including statistically significant outcomes favoring treatment to the probability of including other outcomes. For meta‐analyses of safety, we estimated the ratio of the probability of including results showing no evidence of adverse effects to the probability of including results demonstrating the presence of adverse effects.

Results: In the meta‐analyses of efficacy, outcomes favoring treatment had on average a 27% (95% Credible Interval (CI): 18% to 36%) higher probability to be included than other outcomes. In the meta‐analyses of safety, results showing no evidence of adverse effects were on average 78% (95% CI: 51% to 113%) more likely to be included than results demonstrating that adverse effects existed. In general, the amount of over‐representation of findings favorable to treatment was larger in meta‐analyses including older studies.

Conclusions: In the largest study on publication bias in meta‐analyses to date, we found evidence of publication bias in Cochrane systematic reviews. In general, publication bias is smaller in meta‐analyses of more recent studies, indicating their better reliability and supporting the effectiveness of the measures used to reduce publication bias in clinical trials. Our results indicate the need to apply currently underutilized meta‐analysis tools handling publication bias based on the statistical significance, especially when studies included in a meta‐analysis are not recent. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Making Meaning Through Translanguaging in the Literacy Classroom
Authors: Pacheco Mark B. , Miller Mary E.
Published: May 2015

In this Teaching Tip, we share three literacy activities for teachers working with emergent bilinguals. Leveraging students’ heritage languages in instruction holds rich opportunities for literacy achievement. Translanguaging pedagogies encourage emergent bilinguals to use the full range of their linguistic repertoires when making meaning in the classroom. We describe three snapshots of three different classroom activities that welcome, leverage, and develop students’ heritage languages in literacy instruction through translanguaging pedagogies. These activities include using text features with heritage language newspapers, summarizing when writing bilingual book reports, and using translating and home photos when creatingeBooks. We conclude with implications for both student and teacher learning.
Preoperative Prediction of Lymph Node Status by Circulating Mir‐18b and Mir‐20a During Chemoradiotherapy in Patients with Rectal Cancer
Authors: Azizian Azadeh , Kramer Frank , Jo Peter , Wolff Hendrik A. , Beißbarth Tim , Skarupke Robert , Bernhardt Markus , Grade Marian , Michael Ghadimi B. , Gaedcke Jochen
Published: May 2015

Background

In locally advanced rectal cancer, therapeutic success of preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) ranges from resistance to complete regression. For those patients that respond well to CRT, local resection (LR) procedures are currently under investigation to minimize surgical morbidity and to improve functional outcome. To maintain the oncologic benefit appropriate staging procedures are essential. However, current clinical assessment and imaging techniques need further improvement.

Methods

Five miRNAs associated with rectal cancer (miR‐17, miR‐18b, miR‐20a, miR‐31, and miR‐193‐3p) were analyzed in the plasma of rectal cancer patients (n = 42) using qPCR. Expression levels were assessed before, during and after CRT and analyzed in regard to patients’ lymph node status obtained after total mesorectal excision and intensive histopathological work‐up.

Results

Four of the five miRNAs revealed reliable results in the plasma. miR‐31 was excluded due to its low expression. MicroRNA‐17, 18b, 20a, and 193‐3p showed altering expression levels at different time points. Only 43 % (miR‐17), 43 % (miR‐18b), 53 % (miR‐20a), and 60 % (miR‐193‐3p) showed a continuous in‐ or decrease of miRNA expression. The reduced expression of miR‐18b and miR‐20a during CRT was found to be significantly associated with postoperative lymph node negativity (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

MicroRNA expression in patient plasma changes during preoperative CRT. The alteration is not continuous and the meaning requires additional analysis on a larger patient cohort. The co‐occurrence of reduced miR‐18b and miR‐20a expression with lymph node negativity after preoperative CRT could help to stratify the surgical procedure with respect to total mesorectal excision and LR if validated prospectively.
Coarse woody debris respiration of Japanese red pine forests in Korea: controlling factors and contribution to the ecosystem carbon cycle
Authors: Yoon Tae Kyung , Noh Nam Jin , Kim Seongjun , Han Saerom , Son Yowhan
Published: May 2015

Coarse woody debris (CWD) respiration (RCWD) has strengths in efficient investigation of CWD decomposition rate and application into studies on ecosystem carbon (C) processes. Here, RCWD was investigated in two Japanese red pine forests to determine its response to environmental factors and CWD properties, and its contribution to the ecosystem C budget. Samples were collected based on CWD position (log or snag), species (pine or deciduous), and decay class in the Gwangneung pine forest (GPF) and the Mt. Jumbong pine forest (JPF), Korea. RCWD was measured at different incubation temperatures using a closed chamber system. Annual RCWD was estimated by developing and applying air temperature–RCWD regressions to air temperature data. In the GPF, annual estimated RCWD (g C kg−1 year−1) was 29.54, 3.90, and 158.95 for pine logs, pine snags, and deciduous logs, respectively. In the JPF, RCWD was 49.09 for pine logs and 14.55 for pine snags. Temperature and CWD moisture were the main drivers of RCWD. CWD species also influenced RCWD, possibly by supporting different habitats for microbes and invertebrates. RCWD in the GPF accounted for approximately 4 % of heterotrophic respiration and 54 % of the CWD decomposition rate. In the JPF, RCWD was approximately equal to the CWD decomposition rate. RCWD might constitute a minor portion of the net ecosystem production (4 % in the GPF), because of the relatively high stand productivities and small CWD masses. In the GPF, the major factor influencing RCWD was mortality, whereas moisture had the greatest influence on RCWD in the JPF.
Prosopis farcta Seeds: Potential Source of Protein and Unsaturated Fatty Acids?
Authors: Lajnef Houda Ben , Mejri Houda , Feriani Anouer , Khemiri Sheyma , Saadaoui Ezzeddine , Nasri Nizar , Tlili Nizar
Published: May 2015

The goal of this study is to evaluate the chemical composition of the Prosopis farcta seeds. The Kjeldahl method revealed that the level of the total protein was ca. 18 % on a dry weight basis (DW). Gas chromatographic analysis revealed the presence of six fatty acids. Linoleic acid with 57.55 % was the major fatty acid, followed by oleic and palmitic acids (24.58 and 12.91 %, respectively). Total phenolic content was 1.71 mg GAE/g DW (GAE = gallic acid equivalents). Methanolic extracts showed important antioxidant properties. This work highlights the importance of P. farcta seeds as natural and inexpensive sources of protein, unsaturated fatty acid, and phenolic compounds for both cosmetic and pharmaceutical uses.
An evolutionary ecology perspective to address forest pathology challenges of today and tomorrow
Authors: Desprez-Loustau Marie-Laure , Aguayo Jaime , Dutech Cyril , Hayden Katherine J. , Husson Claude , Jakushkin Boris , Marçais Benoît , Piou Dominique , Robin Cécile , Vacher Corinne
Published: May 2015

Key message

Increasing human impacts on forests, including unintentional movement of pathogens, climate change, and large-scale intensive plantations, are associated with an unprecedented rate of new diseases. An evolutionary ecology perspective can help address these challenges and provide direction for sustainable forest management.

Context

Forest pathology has historically relied on an ecological approach to understand and address the practical management of forest diseases. A widening of this perspective to include evolutionary considerations has been increasingly developed in response to the rising rates of genetic change in both pathogen populations and tree populations due to human activities.

Aims

Here, five topics for which the evolutionary perspective is especially relevant are highlighted.

Results

The first relates to the evolutionary diversity of fungi and fungal-like organisms, with issues linked to the identification of species and their ecological niches. The second theme deals with the evolutionary processes that allow forest pathogens to adapt to new hosts after introductions or to become more virulent in homogeneous plantations. The third theme presents issues linked to disease resistance in tree breeding programs (e.g., growth-defense trade-offs) and proposes new criteria and methods for more durable resistance. The last two themes are dedicated to the biotic environment of the tree–pathogen system, namely, hyperparasites and tree microbiota, as possible solutions for health management.

Conclusion

We conclude by highlighting three major conceptual advances brought by evolutionary biology, i.e., that (i) “not everything is everywhere”, (ii) evolution of pathogen populations can occur on short time scales, and (iii) the tree is a multitrophic community. We further translate these into a framework for immediate policy recommendations and future directions for research.
Characterization of substrate binding of the WW domains in human WWP2 protein
Authors: Jiang Jiahong , Wang Nan , Jiang Yafei , Tan Hongwei , Zheng Jimin , Chen Guangju , Jia Zongchao
Published: May 2015

WW domains harbor substrates containing proline‐rich motifs, but the substrate specificity and binding mechanism remain elusive for those WW domains less amenable for structural studies, such as human WWP2 (hWWP2). Herein we have employed multiple techniques to investigate the second WW domain (WW2) in hWWP2. Our results show that hWWP2 is a specialized E3 for PPxY motif‐containing substrates only and does not recognize other amino acids and phospho‐residues. The strongest binding affinity of WW2, and the incompatibility between each WW domain, imply a novel relationship, and our SPR experiment reveals a dynamic binding mode in Class‐I WW domains for the first time. The results from alanine‐scanning mutagenesis and modeling further point to functionally conserved residues in WW2.
Mechanical dissociation of the M‐band titin/obscurin complex is directionally dependent
Authors: Caldwell Tracy A. , Sumner Isaiah , Wright Nathan T.
Published: May 2015

Titin and obscurin, two giant muscle proteins, bind to each other in an antiparallel Ig–Ig fashion at the M‐band. This interaction must be able to withstand the mechanical strain that the M‐band typically experiences and remain intact. The mechanical force on these domains is likely exerted along one of two axes: a longitudinal axis, resulting in a ‘shearing’ force, or a lateral axis, resulting in a ‘peeling’ force. Here we present molecular dynamics data suggesting that these forces result in distinct unraveling pathways of the titin/obscurin complex and that peeling the domains apart requires less work and force.
How is the inner circadian clock controlled by interactive clock proteins?
Authors: Merbitz-Zahradnik Torsten , Wolf Eva
Published: May 2015

Most internationally travelled researchers will have encountered jetlag. If not, working odd hours makes most of us feel somehow dysfunctional. How can all this be linked to circadian rhythms and circadian clocks? In this review, we define circadian clocks, their composition and underlying molecular mechanisms. We describe and discuss recent crystal structures of Drosophila and mammalian core clock components and the enormous impact they had on the understanding of circadian clock mechanisms. Finally, we highlight the importance of circadian clocks for the daily regulation of human/mammalian physiology and show connections to overall fitness, health and disease.
A novel approach to predict surface roughness in machining operations using fuzzy set theory
Authors: Tseng Tzu-Liang (Bill) , Konada Udayvarun , Kwon Yongjin (James)
Published: May 2015

The increase of consumer needs for quality metal cutting related products with more precise tolerances and better product surface roughness has driven the metal cutting industry to continuously improve quality control of metal cutting processes. In this paper, two different approaches are discussed. First, design of experiments (DOE) is used to determine the significant factors and then fuzzy logic approach is presented for the prediction of surface roughness. The data used for the training and checking the fuzzy logic performance is derived from the experiments conducted on a CNC milling machine. In order to obtain better surface roughness, the proper sets of cutting parameters are determined before the process takes place. The factors considered for DOE in the experiment were the depth of cut, feed rate per tooth, cutting speed, tool nose radius, the use of cutting fluid and the three components of the cutting force. Finally the significant factors were used as input factors for fuzzy logic mechanism and surface roughness is predicted with empirical formula developed. Test results show good agreement between the actual process output and the predicted surface roughness.

Highlights This work uses innovative methods in process prediction with the application of FST. Many potential benefits of fuzzy set theory have been presented and instantiated. The fuzzy set equations are built on the data obtained from the experiments. A detailed analysis is presented using experimental case study. The results indicate the good accuracy of proposed method.
Nonalcoholic Wernicke’s encephalopathy
Authors: Welsh Amanda , Rogers Peter , Clift Fraser
Published: May 2015

Wernicke’s encephalopathy (WE) is a serious neurologic condition resulting from thiamine deficiency. The majority of cases involve alcoholism; however, nonalcohol-associated WE does occur and is under-recognized. We discuss a case of a 22-year-old man with a history of Crohn’s disease who presented to our emergency department with multiple neurologic complaints related to WE.
Cross-cultural child and adolescent psychiatry research in developing countries
Authors: Atilola O.
Published: May 2015

Mental disorders are currently a major source of morbidity among children and youth globally. The bulk of the epidemiological data about childhood mental health morbidity currently comes from the industrialized countries which paradoxically host a small (about 20%) proportion of global children and youth population. As the world seek to generate more data on the mental health of the teeming children and youth population in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), cross-cultural issues need be considered. This consideration is imperative for reasons which include the high level of ethno-diversity in LMICs; the contextual issues in the conceptualization of normal (and abnormal) childhood across cultures, the cross-cultural nuances in risk and protective factors, and the plurality of nature and expression of childhood psychopathology. As much as it is imperative to do so, advancing cross-cultural child and adolescent research in LMICs will need to overcome challenges such as inclusive sampling and cultural validation of instruments developed in the industrialized countries of the West. Funding, technical resources, and publication bias are other potential challenges. These issues are appraised in this narrative review and some ways forward are proffered.
Algerian Disorders: On Deconstructive Postcolonialism in Cixous and Derrida
Authors: Kaiser Birgit Mara
Published: May 2015

This article explores Hélène Cixous’s and Jacques Derrida’s explicit revisiting of their Algerian memories, especially in their later work (mainlyReveries of the Wild WomanandMonolingualism of the Other). These texts offer a specifically deconstructive response to the colonial project in Algeria, attempting to think non-appropriative relations to otherness and processes of identification that exceed a self/other binary. Investigating the colonial principle that manifested itself in Algeria from the vantage point of their Judeo-Franco-Maghrebian situatedness, they derive from this position not accounts of cultural particularity, but analyses of (and alternatives to) colonial practices of identification: analyzing colonial and identity politics as harmful to a fundamental relationality to otherness and affirming a “spectral” zone without belonging that nonetheless carves out a life with, toward, and of the other, on the others’ sides, relational without being oblivious of antagonisms and violence.