bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Movements and Demography of Spawning American Shad in the Penobscot River, Maine, prior to Dam Removal
Authors: Grote Ann B. , Bailey Michael M. , Zydlewski Joseph D.
Published: May 2014

We conducted a baseline study to better understand the migratory movements and age and spawning histories of American Shad Alosa sapidissima in the Penobscot River, Maine. The Penobscot River is currently undergoing a major dam removal project that is focused on restoring migratory connectivity and recovering diadromous fish populations including American Shad. This study addresses key data gaps for a previously unstudied native population of shad prior to restoration. A combination of radio‐ (n = 70) and acoustic telemetry (n = 14) was used to investigate the movements of migratory adult fish in 2010 and 2011. Scale‐based analyses were used to assess spawner age and iteroparity. Radiotelemetry results indicated that few tagged fish (5–8%) approached the head‐of‐tide dam. Tagged fish exhibited three general patterns of movement in the accessible freshwater river habitat: use of the upper river reach, the lower river reach, or both. Mean freshwater residence time ranged from 9.1 to 14.0 d. Congregating fish were observed at two sites in the upper river reach and spawning activity was observed. Freshwater survival and survival to the estuary were at least 71%. This observed high survival was consistent with the estimated age and spawning histories of tracked fish, which indicated that 75–95% of the sampled fish were repeat spawners. Estimated age of adult migrants ranged from age 4 to age 9. Postspawning acoustic‐tagged American Shad exhibited a series of prolonged upstream and downstream reversals upon entering the lower estuary. These movements have been previously unreported, and suggest that estuarine residency after spawning is important to osmoregulatory acclimatization for re‐entry into salt water and the resumption of postspawning feeding activity.
Comparison of Two Sampling Designs for Fish Assemblage Assessment in a Large River
Authors: Kiraly Ian A. , Coghlan Stephen M. , Zydlewski Joseph , Hayes Daniel
Published: May 2014

We compared the efficiency of stratified random and fixed‐station sampling designs to characterize fish assemblages in anticipation of dam removal on the Penobscot River, the largest river in Maine. We used boat electrofishing methods in both sampling designs. Multiple 500‐m transects were selected randomly and electrofished in each of nine strata within the stratified random sampling design. Within the fixed‐station design, up to 11 transects (1,000 m) were electrofished, all of which had been sampled previously. In total, 88 km of shoreline were electrofished during summer and fall in 2010 and 2011, and 45,874 individuals of 34 fish species were captured. Species‐accumulation and dissimilarity curve analyses indicated that all sampling effort, other than fall 2011 under the fixed‐station design, provided repeatable estimates of total species richness and proportional abundances. Overall, our sampling designs were similar in precision and efficiency for sampling fish assemblages. The fixed‐station design was negatively biased for estimating the abundance of species such as Common Shiner Luxilus cornutus and Fallfish Semotilus corporalis and was positively biased for estimating biomass for species such as White Sucker Catostomus commersonii and Atlantic Salmon Salmo salar. However, we found no significant differences between the designs for proportional catch and biomass per unit effort, except in fall 2011. The difference observed in fall 2011 was due to limitations on the number and location of fixed sites that could be sampled, rather than an inherent bias within the design. Given the results from sampling in the Penobscot River, application of the stratified random design is preferable to the fixed‐station design due to less potential for bias caused by varying sampling effort, such as what occurred in the fall 2011 fixed‐station sample or due to purposeful site selection.
Juvenile Rockfish Recruitment in Trinidad Bay, California
Authors: Jones Michelle K. , Mulligan Tim
Published: May 2014

This study is the first to describe the relative interannual abundance and timing of nearshore juvenile rockfish, Sebastes spp., recruiting to nearshore kelp beds in Trinidad Bay, California. Recruitment refers to the number of individuals arriving onshore from pelagic larval habitat. Documenting recruitment at new sites may provide insight into coastwide patterns, providing resolution to competing hypotheses that describe why annual recruitment varies. However, recruitment can be patchy along the coast, requiring exploratory research to identify recruitment sites before beginning long‐term monitoring. The objective of this study is to provide the first description of the timing and abundance of nearshore juvenile rockfish entering kelp beds in Trinidad Bay. Fish were sampled weekly over the summers of 2010 and 2011 with two artificial reefs, Standard Monitoring Units for the Recruitment of Fishes (SMURFs). The number of fish sampled varied annually, averaging 3,464 (n = 2, SD = 315) fish sampled per SMURF in 2010 and 447 (n = 2, SD = 8) sampled per SMURF in 2011. Of the fish sampled, 46% and 23% were juvenile Black Rockfish S. melanops in 2010 and 2011, respectively. The order in which species arrived onshore was consistent between the years and matched the order of parturition among species. We conclude Trinidad Bay would be a valuable site for long‐term monitoring of rockfish recruitment in northern California and discuss our observations within the context of habitat selection, larval transport, and open‐ocean survival.
Feeding Habits Variability and Trophic Position of Dolphinfish in Waters South of the Baja California Peninsula, Mexico
Authors: Torres‐Rojas Y. E. , Hernández‐Herrera A. , Ortega‐García S. , Soto‐Jiménez M. F.
Published: May 2014

Using data from analyses of stomach contents and stable isotopes, we examined high‐resolution variations in the feeding habits and trophic position of Dolphinfish Coryphaena hippurus during 2005–2007. In total, 418 specimens were collected off the southern Baja California peninsula, Mexico. Based on analysis of stomach contents (% index of relative importance [%IRI]), Dolphinfish consumed mainly epipelagic prey, with the red crab Pleuroncodes planipes as the most abundant prey species. The diet was highly similar between sexes but differed between size‐classes: Dolphinfish smaller than 65 cm FL fed mainly on Pacific Sardine Sardinops sagax caeruleus (%IRI = 30), whereas those larger than 110 cm FL fed mainly on jumbo squid Dosidicus gigas (%IRI = 45) in addition to red crabs. Dietary differences between the smallest and largest specimens were mainly related to changes in morphology and spatial stratification by size (i.e., to avoid cannibalism). Trophic positions estimated by both methods indicated that the Dolphinfish is a secondary to tertiary carnivore with a high degree of trophic plasticity, and thus it plays different trophic roles within the area. Elevated variability in δ15N and Shannon–Wiener diversity index values on an annual scale revealed that Dolphinfish are opportunistic predators. Interannual diet variation related to the availability and abundance of prey species can be explained by changes in environmental conditions due to climate anomalies associated with El Niño–Southern Oscillation events. We highlight that the Dolphinfish is a good indicator of changes occurring in the food web structure of pelagic ecosystems. The observed variations in feeding habits and trophic position are critical to understanding the ecology and role of Dolphinfish in marine ecosystems by providing knowledge on feeding locations, seasonal prey utilization, and prey availability and allowing predictions of possible ecological responses to environmental change.
Introduction to the special section: minority politics and the territoriality principle in Europe
Authors: Dembinska Magdalena , Máracz László , Tonk Márton
Published: May 2014

Territorial arrangements for managing interethnic relations within states are far from consensual. Although self-governance for minorities is commonly advocated, international documents are ambiguously formulated. Conflicting pairs of principles, territoriality vs. personality, and self-determination vs. territorial integrity, along with diverging state interests account for this gap. Together, the articles in this special section address the territoriality principle and its hardly operative practice on the ground, with particular attention to European cases. An additional theme reveals itself in the articles: the ambiguity of minority recognition politics. This introductory article briefly presents these two common themes, followed by an outline of three recent proposals discussed especially in Eastern Europe that seek to bypass the controversial territorial autonomy model: cultural rights in municipalities with a “substantial” proportion of minority members; the cultural autonomy model; and European regionalism and multi-level governance.
Fate mapping reveals origin and dynamics of lymph node follicular dendritic cells
Authors: Jarjour Meryem , Jorquera Audrey , Mondor Isabelle , Wienert Stephan , Narang Priyanka , Coles Mark C. , Klauschen Frederick , Bajénoff Marc
Published: May 2014

Follicular dendritic cells (FDCs) regulate B cell function and development of high affinity antibody responses but little is known about their biology. FDCs associate in intricate cellular networks within secondary lymphoid organs. In vitro and ex vivo methods, therefore, allow only limited understanding of the genuine immunobiology of FDCs in their native habitat. Herein, we used various multicolor fate mapping systems to investigate the ontogeny and dynamics of lymph node (LN) FDCs in situ. We show that LN FDC networks arise from the clonal expansion and differentiation of marginal reticular cells (MRCs), a population of lymphoid stromal cells lining the LN subcapsular sinus. We further demonstrate that during an immune response, FDCs accumulate in germinal centers and that neither the recruitment of circulating progenitors nor the division of local mature FDCs significantly contributes to this accumulation. Rather, we provide evidence that newly generated FDCs also arise from the proliferation and differentiation of MRCs, thus unraveling a critical function of this poorly defined stromal cell population.
Universal Laurent series on domains of infinite connectivity
Authors: Nestoridis Vassili
Published: May 2014

We establish the existence of universal Laurent series on some domains of infinite connectivity. This phenomenon is topologically and algebraically generic.
Mitonuclear interactions: evolutionary consequences over multiple biological scales
Authors: Wolff Jonci N. , Ladoukakis Emmanuel D. , Enríquez José A. , Dowling Damian K.
Published: May 2014

Fundamental biological processes hinge on coordinated interactions between genes spanning two obligate genomes—mitochondrial and nuclear. These interactions are key to complex life, and allelic variation that accumulates and persists at the loci embroiled in such intergenomic interactions should therefore be subjected to intense selection to maintain integrity of the mitochondrial electron transport system. Here, we compile evidence that suggests that mitochondrial–nuclear (mitonuclear) allelic interactions are evolutionarily significant modulators of the expression of key health-related and life-history phenotypes, across several biological scales—within species (intra- and interpopulational) and between species. We then introduce a new frontier for the study of mitonuclear interactions—those that occur within individuals, and are fuelled by the mtDNA heteroplasmy and the existence of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial gene duplicates and isoforms. Empirical evidence supports the idea of high-resolution tissue- and environment-specific modulation of intraindividual mitonuclear interactions. Predicting the penetrance, severity and expression patterns of mtDNA-induced mitochondrial diseases remains a conundrum. We contend that a deeper understanding of the dynamics and ramifications of mitonuclear interactions, across all biological levels, will provide key insights that tangibly advance our understanding, not only of core evolutionary processes, but also of the complex genetics underlying human mitochondrial disease.
How to deal with oxygen radicals stemming from mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation
Authors: Speijer D. , Manjeri G. R. , Szklarczyk R.
Published: May 2014

Oxygen radical formation in mitochondria is an incompletely understood attribute of eukaryotic cells. Recently, a kinetic model was proposed, in which the ratio between electrons entering the respiratory chain via FADH2or NADH determines radical formation. During glucose breakdown, the ratio is low; during fatty acid breakdown, the ratio is high (the ratio increasing—asymptotically—with fatty acid length to 0.5, when compared with 0.2 for glucose). Thus, fatty acid oxidation would generate higher levels of radical formation. As a result, breakdown of fatty acids, performed without generation of extra FADH2in mitochondria, could be beneficial for the cell, especially in the case of long and very long chained ones. This possibly has been a major factor in the evolution of peroxisomes. Increased radical formation, as proposed by the model, can also shed light on the lack of neuronal fatty acid oxidation and tells us about hurdles during early eukaryotic evolution. We specifically focus on extending and discussing the model in light of recent publications and findings.
The Ce2Li0.39Ni1.61Si2structure as a new derivative of the AlB2family
Authors: Stetskiv Andrij , Rozdzynska-Kielbik Beata , Pavlyuk Volodymyr
Published: May 2014

A new quaternary dicerium lithium/nickel disilicide, Ce2Li0.39Ni1.61Si2, crystallizes as a new structure type of intermetallic compounds closely related to the AlB2family. The crystal–chemical interrelationships between parent AlB2-type, BaLiSi, ZrBeSi and the title compound are discussed using the Bärnighausen formalism. Two Ce atoms occupy sites of 3m. symmetry. The remainder,i.e.Ni, mixed Ni/Li and Si atoms, occupy sites of \overline{6}m2 symmetry. The environment of the Ce atom is an 18-vertex polyhedron and the Ni, Ni/Li and Si atoms are enclosed in tricapped trigonal prisms. The title structure can be assigned to class No. 10 (trigonal prism and its derivatives) according to the Krypyakevich classification scheme [Krypyakevich (1977). InStructure Types of Intermetallic Compounds. Moscow: Nauka]. The electronic structure of the title compound was calculated using the tight-binding linear muffin-tin orbital method in the atomic spheres approximation (TB-LMTO-ASA). Metallic bonding is dominant in this compound. The strongest interactions are Ni—Si and Ce—Si.
Unification and classification of two-dimensional crystalline patterns using orbifolds
Authors: Hyde S. T. , Ramsden S. J. , Robins V.
Published: May 2014

The concept of an orbifold is particularly suited to classification and enumeration of crystalline groups in the euclidean (flat) plane and its elliptic and hyperbolic counterparts. Using Conway's orbifold naming scheme, this article explicates conventional point, frieze and plane groups, and describes the advantages of the orbifold approach, which relies on simple rules for calculating the orbifold topology. The article proposes a simple taxonomy of orbifolds into seven classes, distinguished by their underlying topological connectedness, boundedness and orientability. Simpler `crystallographic hyperbolic groups' are listed, namely groups that result from hyperbolic sponge-like sections through three-dimensional euclidean space related to all known genus-three triply periodic minimal surfaces (i.e.theP,D,Gyroid,CLPandHsurfaces) as well as the genus-fourI-WPsurface.
Review of studies that have used knockout mice to assess normal function of prion protein under immunological or pathophysiological stress
Authors: Onodera Takashi , Sakudo Akikazu , Tsubone Hirokazu , Itohara Shigeyoshi
Published: May 2014

Deletion of cellular isoform of prion protein (PrPC) increases neuronal predisposition to damage by modulating apoptosis and the negative consequences of oxidative stress. In vivo studies have demonstrated that PrPC‐deficient mice are more prone to seizure, depression, and induction of epilepsy and experience extensive cerebral damage following ischemic challenge or viral infection. In addition, adenovirus‐mediated overexpression of PrPC reduces brain damage in rat models of cerebral ischemia. In experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, PrPC‐deficient mice reportedly have a more aggressive disease onset and less clinical improvement during the chronic phase than wild‐type mice mice. In mice given oral dextran sulfate, PrPC has a potential protective role against inflammatory bowel disease. PrPC‐deficient mice demonstrate significantly greater increases in blood glucose concentrations after intraperitoneal injection of glucose than wild‐type mice. Further in vivo challenges to PrP gene‐deficient models and conditional knockout models with siRNA and in vivo administration of PrP‐ligating agents may assist in refining knowledge of the lymphoid function of PrPC and predicting the effects of anti‐PrP treatment on the immune system. Together, these findings indicate that PrPC may have multiple neuroprotective and anti‐inflammatory roles, which explains why this protein is so widely expressed.
Using vaginal Group B Streptococcus colonisation in women with preterm premature rupture of membranes to guide the decision for immediate delivery: a secondary analysis of the PPROMEXIL trials
Authors: Tajik P , van der Ham DP , Zafarmand MH , Hof MHP , Morris J , Franssen MTM , de Groot CJM , Duvekot JJ , Oudijk MA , Willekes C , Bloemenkamp KWM , Porath M , Woiski M , Akerboom BM , Sikkema JM , Bijvank B Nij , Mulder ALM , Bossuyt PM , Mol BWJ
Published: May 2014

Objective

To investigate whether vaginal Group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonisation or other baseline characteristics of women with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) can help in identifying subgroups of women who would benefit from immediate delivery.

Design

Secondary analysis of the PPROMEXIL trials.

Setting

Sixty hospitals in the Netherlands.

Population

Women with PPROM between 34 and 37 weeks of gestation.

Methods

Random assignment of 723 women to immediate delivery or expectant management.

Main outcome measures

Early onset neonatal sepsis.

Results

Vaginal GBS colonisation status was the only marker which was significantly associated with the benefit of immediate delivery (P for interaction: 0.04). GBS colonisation was observed in 14% of women. The risk of early onset neonatal sepsis in GBS‐positive women was high (15.2%) when they were managed expectantly but this risk was reduced to 1.8% with immediate delivery. The early onset neonatal sepsis risk was much lower in neonates of GBS‐negative women: 2.6% after expectant management and 2.9% with immediate delivery. We estimated that by inducing labour only in GBS‐positive women, there would be a 10.4% increase in term delivery rate, while keeping neonatal sepsis and caesarean delivery rates comparable to a strategy of labour induction for all.

Conclusions

Our post hoc findings suggest that women with PROM between 34 and 37 weeks might benefit from immediate delivery if they have GBS vaginal colonisation, while in GBS‐negative women labour induction could be delayed until 37 weeks.
Management of the pancreatic stump after pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Lee Kit‐Fai
Published: May 2014

The aim of the present study was to review the current evidence in the management of the pancreatic stump after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). A literature search was conducted using the following key words: PD, Whipple's operation, pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ), pancreaticogastrostomy (PG), dunking, duct to mucosa (DTM) and pancreatic stent. Emphasis was made on randomized, controlled trials and meta‐analyses. Simple ligation or occlusion of the pancreatic duct was abandoned due to a high complication rate. Most surgeons fashioned a PJ or PG to restore drainage of pancreatic juice. Dunking and DTM were the two major ways to construct anastomosis. The superiority of the binding technique still needs to be proved. However, Blumgart's modified DTM technique achieved a favourable outcome in some non‐randomized trials. Pancreatic fistula was not decreased by internal stent, but an external stent might be helpful. No single type or technique of pancreaticoenteric anastomosis is able to demonstrate significant superiority to others. Similar controversy also occurs in the use of pancreatic stent. For the successful management of the pancreatic stump, no matter which type of anastomosis is employed, a meticulous surgical technique with optimization of blood supply to the anastomosis cannot be overemphasized.
Oral health impacts and quality of life in an urban homeless population
Authors: Ford PJ , Cramb S , Farah CS
Published: May 2014

Background

Homeless people experience a much higher burden of general health conditions and have much poorer oral health than the rest of the population. The aim of this study was to determine the oral health impacts and general quality of life of an urban homeless population.

Methods

A convenience sample of 58 adults (dentate n = 56) experiencing homelessness were assessed using a survey which included the 14‐item Oral Health Impact Profile and the 26‐item World Health Organization's Quality of Life – short version. A subset (n = 34) also underwent a dental examination.

Results

The study participants were younger, more likely to be Indigenous, smoked daily and avoided dental care because of cost than the rest of the population. Dentate homeless adults reported significantly greater oral health impacts when compared with the Australian dentate population. General quality of life was significantly poorer than for the rest of the population. Treatment need was associated with greater oral health impacts.

Conclusions

Poor oral health is prevalent and adversely impacts quality of life for homeless people, but it is only one of a range of complex social and health challenges being faced by these individuals. Dental care should be better integrated within homeless support services.
Correct diagnosis for plunging ranula by magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Li Jian , Li Jun
Published: May 2014

Plunging ranulas most commonly occupy the submandibular triangle and misdiagnosis inevitably leads to incorrect treatment. Three cases of plunging ranula are reported. The correct diagnosis resulted from the characteristic signs of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Treatment consisted of the total removal of the sublingual gland and evacuation of cystic contents by the intraoral approach. The cyst gradually regressed and disappeared within two months after surgery as confirmed by ultrasonography. All three cases have not experienced recurrence in the follow‐up period. MRI is a valuable method to correctly diagnosis plunging ranula. Total removal of the sublingual gland is the most reliable method to treat plunging ranula.
Geraniol Blocks Calcium and Potassium Channels in the Mammalian Myocardium: Useful Effects to Treat Arrhythmias
Authors: de Menezes‐Filho José Evaldo Rodrigues , Gondim Antônio Nei Santana , Cruz Jader Santos , de Souza Américo Azevedo , Santos José Nilson Andrade dos , Conde‐Garcia Eduardo Antônio , de Sousa Damião Pergentino , Santos Michel Santana , de Oliveira Evaleide Diniz , de Vasconcelos Carla Maria Lins
Published: May 2014

Geraniol is a monoterpene present in several essential oils, and it is known to have a plethora of pharmacological activities. In this study, we explored the contractile and electrophysiological properties of geraniol and its antiarrhythmic effects in the heart. The geraniol effects on atrial contractility, L‐type Ca2+ current, K+ currents, action potential (AP) parameters, ECG profile and on the arrhythmia induced by ouabain were evaluated. In the atrium, geraniol reduced the contractile force (~98%, EC = 1,510 ± 160 μM) and diminished the positive inotropism of CaCl2 and BAY K8644. In cardiomyocytes, the ICa,L was reduced by 50.7% (n = 5) after perfusion with 300 μM geraniol. Moreover, geraniol prolonged the AP duration (APD) measured at 50% (n = 5) after repolarization, without changing the resting potential. The increased APD could be attributed to the blockade of the transient outward K+ current (Ito) (59.7%, n = 4), the non‐inactivation K+ current (Iss) (39.2%, n = 4) and the inward rectifier K+ current (IK1) (33.7%, n = 4). In isolated hearts, geraniol increased PRi and QTi without affecting the QRS complex (n = 6), and it reduced both the left ventricular pressure (83%) and heart rate (16.5%). Geraniol delayed the time to onset of ouabain‐induced arrhythmias by 128%, preventing 30% of the increase in resting tension (n = 6). Geraniol exerts its negative inotropic and chronotropic responses in the heart by decreasing both L‐type Ca2+ and voltage‐gated K+ currents, ultimately acting against ouabain‐induced arrhythmias.
Between global dreams and national duties: the dilemma of conscription duty in the transnational lives of young Korean males
Authors: SONG KIRSTEN YOUNGHEE
Published: May 2014

In this study, I examine the dilemmas arising from the tension between citizen duties and youthful aspirations in a globalizing world. The state's requirement of military conscription structures the transnational lives of young Korean male migrants. More particularly, the timeline for serving the duty works as a primary temporal reference for the males' initial migration planning and future projections. Drawn from ethnographic fieldwork and in‐depth interviews among a community of young Koreans in New Jersey, USA, my research reveals that their life planning in accordance with this institutional schedule is vulnerable to unexpected changes. The consequences are potentially detrimental to their futures, which not only differ from their individual ideals but also contain a high risk of marginalization both in Korea and in the USA. Building on the transnational migration literature, which focuses predominantly on spatiality, individual rights/agency and the marginalization of women migrants, I am concerned with temporality, citizens' duties and the constraints of masculinity as important parts of unravelling the complexities of transnational life.
Clinical–MRI Correlations in a Multiethnic Cohort with Recent Lacunar Stroke: The SPS3 Trial
Authors: Benavente Oscar R. , Pearce Lesly A. , Bazan Carlos , Roldan Ana M. , Catanese Luciana , Livezey Viveca M. Bhat , Vidal-Pergola Gabriela , McClure Leslie A. , Hart Robert G. ,   for the SPS3 Investigators
Published: May 2014

Background

Neuroimaging manifestations of small vessel disease are heterogeneous, and correlation with patient features has not been adequately characterized.

Aim

Our goal was to correlate magnetic resonance imaging findings with clinical features in a large multiethnic cohort with recent lacunar stroke.

Methods

Patient characteristics were correlated with neuroimaging results in the Secondary Prevention of Small Subcortical Stroke study participants.

Results

Among 3005 patients, mean age was 63 years; 62% were men; and 51%, 30%, and 16% were non-Hispanic White, Hispanic, and Black, respectively. Recent lacunar infarcts were distributed between the subcortical hemisphere (31%), thalamus (26%), brainstem/cerebellum (26%), and basal ganglia/internal capsule (16%). Multiple lacunar infarcts (i.e., acute and remote) were present in 40% and associated with increased age (OR 1·3 per 20 years, 95% CI 1·1, 1·5), male gender (OR 1·5, CI 1·3, 1·7), hypertension (OR 1·5, CI 1·2, 1·8), increased systolic blood pressure (OR 1·2 per 20 mmHg, CI 1·1, 1·3), and prior stroke (OR 3·8, CI 2·9, 5·0). Moderate-severe white matter hyperintensities were present in 50% and associated with increased age (OR 4·3 per 20 years, CI 3·4, 5·4), hypertension (OR 1·8, CI 1·4, 2·3), increased systolic blood pressure (OR 1·3 per 20mmHg, CI 1·1, 1·5), increased diastolic blood pressure (OR 1·2 per 10 mm, CI 1·0,1·3), and prior stroke (OR 3·3, CI 2·3, 4·5). Infarct location varied significantly by race-ethnicity ( P < 0·001), with Blacks and Hispanics having more infarcts in the brainstem/cerebellum than non-Hispanic Whites, and by gender with women more often having thalamic lacunes than men ( P ≤ 0·001).

Conclusions

In patients with recent lacunar stroke, infarct location and number have distinctie associations with gender, vascular risk factors, and race-ethnicity, demonstrating the complex pathogenesis of lacunar stroke and cerebral small artery disease.
Effect of a patient‐directed discharge letter on patient understanding of their hospitalisation
Authors: Lin R. , Gallagher R. , Spinaze M. , Najoumian H. , Dennis C. , Clifton‐Bligh R. , Tofler G.
Published: May 2014

Background/Aim

Poor patient understanding of their diagnosis and treatment plan can adversely impact clinical outcome following hospital discharge. Discharge summaries are primarily written for the doctor rather than the patient. We determined patient understanding of the reasons for hospitalisation, in‐hospital tests, treatments and post–discharge recommendations, and whether a brief patient‐directed discharge letter (PADDLE) delivered during a brief discussion prior to discharge would improve understanding.

Methods

A prospective randomised controlled trial was conducted, including 67 hospitalised patients. After a baseline questionnaire, patients were randomised to receive the PADDLE letter or usual care. Those receiving the letter had an immediate follow‐up questionnaire. Patient understanding was compared with a summary letter written by the treating clinician, using a 5‐point Likert scale ranging from none to full understanding. A questionnaire was administered at 3 and 6 months.

Results

At baseline, patients had almost full understanding (median score 4) of reasons for hospitalisation and treatments. However, despite high self‐appraisal, patients objectively had very little understanding of tests performed and post‐discharge recommendations (median 2). Those receiving the letter had an immediate increase to almost full understanding (median 4) of tests performed (P < 0.001) and to full understanding (median 5) of post‐discharge recommendations. This increase did not persist at 3 or 6 months.

Conclusions

A simple patient‐directed letter delivered during a brief discussion improves patient understanding of their hospitalisation and post‐discharge recommendations, which is otherwise limited. Further evaluation of this brief and well‐received intervention is indicated, with the goal of improving patient understanding, satisfaction and clinical outcomes.
Exact mathematical formulations and metaheuristic algorithms for production cost minimization: a case study of the cable industry
Authors: Niroomand Sadegh , Vizvari Bela
Published: May 2014

This paper addresses an application of production scheduling problems in cable industry. In cases where the size and color of cable are changed, the cable industry is classified as a multiproduct, mass production system. Two different mathematical programming models based on continuous time representation are proposed for a case study on the scheduling problem of the cable industry to minimize the total cost including setup cost, operating cost, and inventory holding cost. As the solution methodology, different grouping policies, for example, grouping cables of the same size and grouping cables of the same color are proposed. Then different metaheuristic methods based on simulated annealing and variable neighborhood search algorithms are applied to minimize the total cost of proposed solutions. Finally, the solution with the smallest total cost is selected as the production schedule of the case study, while Xpress solver could not provide any feasible solution for the mathematical models in the problem size of case study.
Spiradiclis coriaceifolia and S. tonglingensis spp. nov. (Rubiaceae, Ophiorrhizeae) from Guangxi, China
Authors: Deng Shu‐Jun , Wen Hai‐Zhen , Huang Xiang‐Xu , Wang Rui‐Jiang
Published: May 2014

Two new species, Spiradiclis coriaceifolia R.‐J. Wang and S. tonglingensis R.‐J. Wang, from China, are described and illustrated. Their palynological characters are described based on SEM observations.
Principles and methods for automated palynology
Authors: Holt K. A. , Bennett K. D.
Published: May 2014

Pollen grains are microscopic so their identification and quantification has, for decades, depended upon human observers using light microscopes: a labour‐intensive approach. Modern improvements in computing and imaging hardware and software now bring automation of pollen analyses within reach. In this paper, we provide the first review in over 15 yr of progress towards automation of the part of palynology concerned with counting and classifying pollen, bringing together literature published from a wide spectrum of sources. We consider which attempts offer the most potential for an automated palynology system for universal application across all fields of research concerned with pollen classification and counting. We discuss what is required to make the datasets of these automated systems as acceptable as those produced by human palynologists, and present suggestions for how automation will generate novel approaches to counting and classifying pollen that have hitherto been unthinkable.
Phylogenetic position and morphology of lichenized Trentepohliales (Ulvophyceae,Chlorophyta) from selected species ofGraphidaceae
Authors: Hametner Christina , Stocker‐Wörgötter Elfie , Rindi Fabio , Grube Martin
Published: May 2014

The orderTrentepohliales comprises a diverse and widespread group of green algae in temperate and tropical regions. The free‐living representatives of this order have been investigated in more detail, whereas less is known about the trentepohlialean photobionts of lichens. Selected lichen species of the familyGraphidaceae (Graphis propinqua,Graphis scripta,Graphis submarginata) from different climatic regions were chosen for the isolation of trentepohlialean photobionts. Three different nutrient media (modifiedBold'sBasal medium, modifiedWoodsHoleMBLmedium, optimalHaematococcusmedium) were tested for the cultivation of these algae. The differences of the growth reactions of the isolated photobionts in culture were studied examining morphological characteristics, reproductive strategies and variations in carotenoid accumulation. The phylogenetic positions of the photobionts were investigated using sequences of the18S rRNAgene,ITSregion, andrbcLgene. Three photobiont strains were identified asPrintzina lageniferaand one asTrentepohliasp. according to the phylogenetic data and the morphological observations under culture conditions.
Combining the Bayesian Processor of Output with Bayesian Model Averaging for Reliable Ensemble Forecasting
Authors: Marty R. , Fortin V. , Kuswanto H. , Favre A.-C. , Parent E.
Published: May 2014

Weather predictions are uncertain by nature. This uncertainty is dynamically assessed by a finite set of trajectories, called ensemble members. Unfortunately, ensemble prediction systems underestimate the uncertainty and thus are unreliable. Statistical approaches are proposed to post-process ensemble forecasts, including Bayesian model averaging and the Bayesian processor of output. We develop a methodology, called the Bayesian processor of ensemble members, from a hierarchical model and combining the two aforementioned frameworks to calibrate ensemble forecasts. The Bayesian processor of ensemble members is compared with Bayesian model averaging and the Bayesian processor of output by calibrating surface temperature forecasting over eight stations in the province of Quebec (Canada). Results show that ensemble forecast skill is improved by the method developed.
Making Markets in theEnglishNationalHealthService
Authors: Powell Martin
Published: May 2014

Many commentators point to the rise of markets in public services such as healthcare. However, the conventional ‘similarity’ thesis has been challenged by the ‘difference’ thesis. This article critiques and extends the analysis of a recent contribution byJaneGingrich to the ‘difference thesis’ with a more detailed case study of theEnglishNationalHealthService (NHS). It argues that the text tends to ignore earlier models and other associated variables; provides a rather crude monolithic characterization of ‘left’ and ‘right’; and assumes rather than demonstrates strategic choice. It modifies some of her major conclusions: markets in public services matter (correct); markets vary in profound and important ways (correct, but perhaps in other ways); and partisan politics are central to explaining and shaping markets (perhaps over‐stated). WhileGingrich's ‘breadth’ account is persuasive at the macro‐level, some questions arise from a more detailed account of theEnglishNHS. First, it is not certain thatGingrich's typology is based on the most important dimensions. Second, her account tends to under‐state the importance of issues such as the nature of contracts, price competition, regulation and policies such asPrivateFinanceInitiative. Third, it is not clear that the Conservative healthcare market can be characterized as anAusterityMarket, and the Labour market as aConsumer‐ControlledMarket. Fourth, this static characterization under‐states the degree of change between and within governments. Lastly, it is not clear what type of market the coalition government has introduced, but this hybrid type may be marked more by policy learning than ideology.
Transarterial embolization of intractable nasal and oropharyngeal hemorrhage using liquid embolic agents
Authors: Hayes Seth B , Johnson Jeremiah N , Most Zachary , Elhammady Mohamed Samy , Yavagal Dileep , Aziz-Sultan Mohammad Ali
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Intractable hemorrhage of the nasal or oropharyngeal cavities can be life threatening, and endovascular embolization is one of the few effective treatments for severe recurrent bleeds. Traditionally, embolic particles have been used for transarterial embolization.

Objective

To investigate the safety and efficacy of a less commonly performed treatment—namely, feeding artery occlusion with liquid embolic agents.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed our neurointerventional database for patients who had undergone transarterial embolization for intractable nasal and oropharyngeal hemorrhage with Onyx, N-butyl-2 cyanoacrylate (n-BCA) glue, or both, at our institution over a 5-year period from 2008 to 2013.

Results

Forty-six patients who underwent a total of 51 procedures met the inclusion criteria. Causes of hemorrhage included neoplasm n=35 (68.6%), trauma n=12 (23.5%), and idiopathic n=4 (7.9%). The bleeding was oropharyngeal in 66.7%, nasal in 29.4%, and 3.9% originated from both sites. Embolic agents used were n-BCA in 26 cases (51.0%), Onyx in 22 cases (43.1%), and both agents in three cases (5.9%). Mean total procedural time was 93.1 min (range 34–323 min), and mean fluoroscopy time was 39.1 min (10– 121 min). Mean follow-up time was 7.4 months (0.25–36 months). Five of the 46 patients (10.9%) required re-embolization and one (2.0%) rebled during the same hospital stay. One periprocedural cardiovascular adverse event occurred that was unrelated to the embolic agent used, but no other complications were seen.

Conclusions

Transarterial embolization with n-BCA or Onyx is a safe and effective treatment for patients with intractable nasal and oropharyngeal hemorrhage. Further prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
Balloon-augmented Onyx endovascular ligation: initial human experience and comparison with coil ligation
Authors: Osanai Toshiya , Bain Mark D , Toth Gabor , Hussain M Shazam , Hui Ferdinand K
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Carotid artery sacrifice remains an important procedure for cerebral vascular disorders despite the development of new endovascular devices. Conventional carotid artery sacrifice with detachable coils alone often requires numerous coils to complete occlusion.

Objective

To describe the initial human experience with balloon-augmented Onyx and coil vessel sacrifice based on our previous experience with animals.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of patients who underwent carotid artery sacrifice between 2008 and 2012 in accordance with local investigational review board approval. Two methods were used to occlude carotid arteries—namely, combined Onyx and coil embolization and traditional coil embolization. We compared the two methods for the cost of embolizate, time to occlude the vessels, and the number of coils.

Results

Eight consecutive patients (combined group n=3, traditional group n=5) were assessed. The median cost of embolic material was $6321 in the combined Onyx and coil embolization group and $29 996 in the traditional coil embolization group. The median time from first coil placement to achievement of vessel occlusion was 52 min in the Onyx group and 113 min in the coil embolization group. The median number of coils used was 4 in the Onyx group and 35 in the coil embolization group (p<0.05). No symptomatic complications or recurrences were seen in the combined group.

Conclusions

Balloon-augmented Onyx endovascular ligation may reduce costs and fluoroscopy times during vessel sacrifice. Further studies in a larger number of patients are needed to confirm these findings.
Protein transport into the human ER and related diseases, Sec61-channelopathies
Authors: Haßdenteufel Sarah , Klein Marie-Christine , Melnyk Armin , Zimmermann Richard
Published: May 2014

Protein transport into the human endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is relevant to the biogenesis of most soluble and membrane proteins of organelles, which are involved in endo- or exo-cytsosis. It involves amino-terminal signal peptides in the precursor polypeptides and various transport components in the cytosol plus the ER, and can occur co- or post-translationally. The two mechanisms merge at the level of the ER membrane, specifically at the level of the heterotrimeric Sec61 complex, which forms a dynamic polypeptide-conducting channel in the ER membrane. Since the mammalian ER is also the main intracellular calcium storage organelle, and the Sec61 complex is calcium permeable, the Sec61 complex is tightly regulated in its equilibrium between the closed and open conformations, or “gated”, by ligands, such as signal peptides of the transport substrates and the ER lumenal Hsp70-type molecular chaperone BiP. Furthermore, BiP binding to the incoming polypeptide contributes to the efficiency and unidirectionality of transport. Recent insights into the structure and dynamic equilibrium of the Sec61 complex have various mechanistic as well as medical implications.
COMPOSITE TRANSISTOR CELL USING DYNAMIC BODY BIAS FOR HIGH GAIN AND LOW-VOLTAGE APPLICATIONS
Authors: NIRANJAN VANDANA , KUMAR ASHWANI , JAIN SHAIL BALA
Published: May 2014

In this work, a new composite transistor cell using dynamic body bias technique is proposed. This cell is based on self cascode topology. The key attractive feature of the proposed cell is that body effect is utilized to realize asymmetric threshold voltage self cascode structure. The proposed cell has nearly four times higher output impedance than its conventional version. Dynamic body bias technique increases the intrinsic gain of the proposed cell by 11.17 dB. Analytical formulation for output impedance and intrinsic gain parameters of the proposed cell has been derived using small signal analysis. The proposed cell can operate at low power supply voltage of 1 V and consumes merely 43.1 nW. PSpice simulation results using 180 nm CMOS technology from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) are included to prove the unique results. The proposed cell could constitute an efficient analog Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) cell library in the design of high gain analog integrated circuits and is particularly interesting for biomedical and instrumentation applications requiring low-voltage low-power operation capability where the processing signal frequency is very low.
POWER GATING TECHNIQUE USING FinFET FOR MINIMIZATION OF SUB-THRESHOLD LEAKAGE CURRENT
Authors: KUMAR K. KEERTI , RAO N. BHEEMA
Published: May 2014

In this paper, a novel power gating method has been proposed with the combination of complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) logic and FinFET for better sub-threshold leakage current minimization. Sub-threshold leakage currents take the paramount part in overall contribution to total power dissipation which comprises of scaling and power reduction. Power gating technique takes up priority among the different leakage current reduction mechanisms. The novel approach has been applied to a CMOS inverter and a two input CMOS NAND gate. The inverter simulated with high threshold voltage metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET), VGOT MOSFET and fin field effect transistor (FinFET) as sleep transistor reduces the sub-threshold leakage current by 45.529%, 47.265% and 86.431%, respectively, when compared with inverter in absence of sleep transistor. This proves substantial improvement as compared to the planar CMOS inverter. Further, these techniques applied for a two input NAND gate resulted in reduction of leakage current by 20.536%, 23.955% and 99.942%, respectively.
GLOBAL PROPERTIES FOR A VIRUS DYNAMICS MODEL WITH LYTIC AND NON-LYTIC IMMUNE RESPONSES, AND NONLINEAR IMMUNE ATTACK RATES
Authors: VARGAS-DE-LEÓN CRUZ
Published: May 2014

We consider a mathematical model that describes a viral infection with lytic and non-lytic immune responses. One of the main features of the model is that it includes a rate of linear activation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) immune response, a constant production rate of CTLs export from thymus, and a nonlinear attack rate for each immune effector mechanism. Stability of the infection-free equilibrium, and existence, uniqueness and stability of an immune-controlled equilibrium, are investigated. The stability results are given in terms of the basic reproductive number. We use the method of Lyapunov functions to study the global stability of the infection-free equilibrium and the immune-controlled equilibrium. We give a sufficient condition on the non-lytic-immune attack rate for the global asymptotic stability of the immune-controlled equilibrium. By theoretical analysis and numerical simulations, we show that the lytic and non-lytic activities are required to combat a viral infection.
ECOLOGICAL MODELING OF TALITROIDES TOPITOTUM (CRUSTACEA: AMPHIPODA)
Authors: LIMA ERNESTO AUGUSTO BUENO DA FONSECA , MATAVELLI CRISTANE , FERREIRA CLÁUDIA PIO , GODOY WESLEY AUGUSTO CONDE
Published: May 2014

A compartmental model was developed to describe the temporal course of an exotic amphipod's population, Talitroides topitotum, in an Atlantic Forest habitat in Brazil. Extensive biological information — including breeding pattern, development and mortality rates, and temperature dependence of the parameters — were considered in the model. A genetic algorithm was used to estimate model parameters by comparing simulation results with field data. This allowed us to discuss the reproductive strategies adopted by this species and to analyze the potential influence of global climate changes on its populations dynamics.