bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of the bonding front propagation on the wafer stack curvature
Authors: Navarro E. , Bréchet Y. , Barthelemy A. , Radu I. , Pardoen T. , Raskin J.-P.
Published: August 2014

The influence of the dynamics of the direct wafer bonding process on the curvature of the final wafer stack is investigated. An analytical model for the final curvature of the bonded wafers is developed, as a function of the different load components acting during the bonding front propagation, using thin plate theory and considering a strain discontinuity locked at the bonding interface. Experimental profiles are measured for different bonding conditions and wafer thicknesses. A very good agreement with the model prediction is obtained and the influence of the thin air layer trapped in-between the two wafers is demonstrated. The proposed model contributes to further improvement of the bonding process, in particular, for the stacking of layers of electronic devices, which requires a high accuracy of wafer-to-wafer alignment and a very low distortion level.
Exploring the Concepts of Abstinence and Recovery through the Experiences of Long-Term Opiate Substitution Clients
Authors: Notley Caitlin , Blyth Annie , Maskrey Vivienne , Pinto Hayley , Holland Richard
Published: August 2014

Background

This study aimed to explore the client experience of long-term opiate substitution treatment (OST).

Methods

A qualitative grounded theory study set in a UK rural community drug treatment service.

Results

Continuous OST enabled stability and a sense of “normality.” Participants expressed relief at moving away from previous chaotic lifestyles and freedom from the persistent fear of opiate withdrawal. However, for some, being on a script made them feel withdrawn, lethargic, and unable to fully participate in mainstream society. Intrapersonal barriers (motivation and fear) were perceived as key barriers to abstinence.

Conclusions

Participants experienced long-term OST as a transition between illicit drug use and recovery. Recovery was seen as a process rather than a fixed goal, confirming that there is a need for services to negotiate individualized recovery goals, spanning harm minimization and abstinence-oriented treatment approaches.
Implications of Marijuana Legalization for Adolescent Substance Use
Authors: Hopfer Christian
Published: August 2014

Marijuana that is legally available for adults has multiple implications for adolescent substance use. One potential effect that legalization may have is an increase in adolescent use to due increased availability, greater social acceptance, and possibly lower prices. Legalization may also facilitate the introduction of new formulations of marijuana (edible, vaporized) and with potentially higher potencies. It is unknown what adolescent consumption patterns will be if marijuana is widely available and marketed in different forms, or what effects different patterns of adolescent use will have on cognition, the development of marijuana use disorders, school performance, and the development of psychotic illnesses. Also unclear is whether adolescent users will be experiencing higher levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) compared with previous generations of users due to higher potencies. Although previous studies of the effects of adolescent marijuana use provide some guidance for current policy and public health recommendations, many new studies will be needed that answer questions in the context of use within a legal adult environment. Claims that marijuana has medicinal benefits create additional challenges for adolescent prevention efforts, as they contrast with messages of its harmfulness. Prevention and treatment approaches will need to address perceptions of the safety of marijuana, claims of its medicinal use, and consider family-wide effects as older siblings and parents may increasingly openly consume and advocate for marijuana use. Guidance for primary care physicians will be needed regarded screening and counseling. Widespread legalization and acceptance of marijuana implies that as law enforcement approaches for marijuana control decline, public health, medical, and scientific efforts to understand and reduce negative consequences of adolescent marijuana use need to be substantially increased to levels commensurate with those efforts for tobacco and alcohol.
Measuring Behaviors of Individual Adolescents during Group-Based Substance Abuse Intervention
Authors: Stein L. A. R. , Clair Mary , Martin Rosemarie A. , Soenksen Shayna , Lebeau Rebecca , Rohsenow Damaris J. , Kahler Christopher W. , Hurlbut Warren , Monti Peter M.
Published: August 2014

Background

Group treatment is delivered in youth correctional facilities, yet groups may be iatrogenic. Few measures with demonstrated psychometric properties exist to track behaviors of individuals during groups. The authors assessed psychometrics for the Group Process—Individual Level measure (GP-IL) of group treatment.

Methods

N = 152 teens were randomized to 1 of 2 groups (10 sessions each). Adolescents, counselors, and observers rated teen behaviors at sessions 3 and 10. GP-IL assesses reinforcement for deviancy and positive behaviors, member rejection, and counselor connection and praise.

Results

Internal consistency and 1-month stability were demonstrated. Concurrent validity is supported by correlations with measures expected to be associated with group behavior (e.g., coping skills). Counselors and observers rated more deviancy during interactive skills-building groups versus didactic psychoeducational groups ( P ≤ .005). Scales evidenced incremental validity.

Conclusions

GP-IL offers a sound method of tracking adolescent behaviors for professionals working with groups. Counselors ratings were most reliable and valid overall.
Facilitators and Barriers to Implementing Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) in Primary Care in Integrated Health Care Settings
Authors: Rahm Alanna Kulchak , Boggs Jennifer M. , Martin Carmen , Price David W. , Beck Arne , Backer Thomas E. , Dearing James W.
Published: August 2014

Background

Substance abuse in the United States is a serious public health concern impacting morbidity and mortality. However, systematic screening and intervention has not been widely adopted into routine practice by health care organizations and routine screening and intervention is not currently in place for primary care at Kaiser Permanente Colorado. Therefore, a formative evaluation was conducted to explore and enhance implementation of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) approach in the organization.

Methods

Key clinical stakeholders, including internal and family medicine physicians, primary care nurses, mental health therapists, chemical dependency clinicians, and clinic-based psychologists provided feedback. Two focus groups were also conducted with patient stakeholders: one in English and one in Spanish.

Results

All clinical stakeholders promoted clinic-based psychologists to conduct brief intervention and determine referral to treatment as the optimal implementation program. Inclusion of the patient perspective also highlighted the importance of considering this perspective in implementation. Both patient groups were generally supportive of SBIRT, especially the educational value of screening questions defining healthy drinking limits; however, English-speaking patients noted privacy concerns and Spanish-speaking patients noted frequently being asked about drug or alcohol use. Organizationally, systems exist to facilitate drug and alcohol use screening, intervention, and referral to treatment. However, physician time, alignment with other priorities, and lack of consistent communication were noted potential barriers to SBIRT implementation.

Conclusions

Clinicians expressed concerns about competing priorities and the need for organizational leadership involvement for successful SBIRT implementation. A unique suggestion for successful implementation is to utilize existing primary care clinic-based psychologists to conduct brief intervention and facilitate referral to treatment. Patient stakeholders supported universal screening, but cultural differences in opinions and current experience were noted, indicating the importance of including this perspective when evaluating implementation potential.
Comparison of saponin composition and content in wild soybean (Glycine soja Sieb. and Zucc.) before and after germination
Authors: Krishnamurthy Panneerselvam , Tsukamoto Chigen , Takahashi Yuya , Hongo Yuji , Singh Ram J , Lee Jeong Dong , Chung Gyuhwa
Published: August 2014

Eight wild soybean accessions with different saponin phenotypes were used to examine saponin composition and relative saponin quantity in various tissues of mature seeds and two-week-old seedlings by LC–PDA/MS/MS. Saponin composition and content were varied according to tissues and accessions. The average total saponin concentration in 1 g mature dry seeds of wild soybean was 16.08 ± 3.13 μmol. In two-week-old seedlings, produced from 1 g mature seeds, it was 27.94 ± 6.52 μmol. Group A saponins were highly concentrated in seed hypocotyl (4.04 ± 0.71 μmol). High concentration of DDMP saponins (7.37 ± 5.22 μmol) and Sg-6 saponins (2.19 ± 0.59 μmol) was found in cotyledonary leaf. In seedlings, the amounts of group A and Sg-6 saponins reduced 2.3- and 1.3-folds, respectively, while DDMP + B + E saponins increased 2.5-fold than those of mature seeds. Our findings show that the group A and Sg-6 saponins in mature seeds were degraded and/or translocated by germination whereas DDMP saponins were newly synthesized.
Hypermucoviscous Klebsiella Syndrome Without Liver Abscess in a Patient With Immunoglobulin G2 Immune Deficiency
Authors: Alsaedi Asim , Janower Amber , Wang Jin-Town , Nichol Kim , Karlowsky James , Orr Pamela , Keynan Yoav
Published: August 2014

Background.  Hypermucoviscous Klebsiellapneumoniae (HMVKP) emerged as a cause of invasive infections in South-East (SE) Asia. It has become the most common cause of liver abscess in that region, and it is a significant causative organism in endogenous endophthalmitis and meningitis. During the past decade, cases of this uniquely virulent organism have been reported outside of SE Asia, with a propensity to affect individuals of SE Asian descent. Cases have been reported from North America including Canada.

Methods.  We report a case of a patient of Filipino descent living in Canada who presented with recurrent HMVKP bacteremia in the absence of pyogenic liver abscess or other localized metastatic Klebsiella infection.

Results.  Investigations identified an immunoglobulin (Ig)G2 deficiency and low IgM indicating potential common variable immunodeficiency, and administration of intravenous immunoglobulins was associated with prevention of further recurrences.

Conclusions.  To our knowledge, this is the first report of HMVKP associated with predisposing antibody deficiency.
“More than Meets the Eye”: When the Neonatal Course May Impact Several Years Out
Authors: Dopwell Fadiyla , Maypole John , Sinha Bharati , Currier Heidi , DeBassio William , Augustyn Marilyn
Published: August 2014

CASE: Nadia is a 7-year-old girl who you have followed since her discharge from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Her parents are here today for an urgent visit with behavioral concerns, such as inattention, hyperactivity, and aggression.

Nadia is a former 40-weeker born through vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery at 9 pounds 7 ounces. Her delivery was complicated with shoulder dystocia, which resulted in resuscitation. Her Apgar scores were 1, 3, and 4 at 1, 5, and 10 minutes, respectively. After intubation and stabilization on mechanical ventilation, Nadia was transferred to the NICU. Her neonatal course included systemic hypothermia using “cool cap” for hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) for a duration of 72 hours. She was extubated on day of life 3. She had an occupational therapy consultation for poor suck/feeding, and it quickly improved. She was discharged on day of life 14. On discharge, Nadia was referred to early intervention (EI) and the NICU follow-up clinic. Nadia was followed by EI until 12 months of age and in the NICU follow-up clinic until 18 months of age, as there were no concerns meeting her developmental milestones or her neuromotor development.

At this urgent visit, Nadia's parents report that she attended a family child care from 1.5 to 3 years of age, Head Start from 3 to 5 years of age and the local public school from 5 years to present. Since starting child care, Nadia's teachers have reported that she requires a lot of redirection and refocusing, fidgets a lot in class, and can be aggressive toward her peers when unprovoked. Since her parents had not seen these behaviors at home, they thought it was a phase that she would grow out of. However, as they began to work with her to complete school assignments, they noticed that it was very difficult for Nadia to sit still and focus on work. They also struggled in the mornings to get her ready and off to school.

The parents bring in Conners scales completed by themselves and her lead teacher, and with these and our clinical observations, we diagnose her with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), combined type. We discuss risk factors and ADHD management with her parents. During our discussion, Nadia's father, who has done some reading on ADHD, remembers reading an article about HIE and NICU stay being risk factors for ADHD. He wonders if this affects the choice of management of her ADHD symptoms. How would you address his query?
A Distance Method to Reconstruct Species Trees In the Presence of Gene Flow
Authors: Cui Lingfei , Kubatko Laura S.
Published: August 2014

One of the central tasks in evolutionary biology is to reconstruct the evolutionary relationships among species from sequence data, particularly from multilocus data. In the last ten years, many methods have been proposed to use the variance in the gene histories to estimate species trees by explicitly modeling deep coalescence. However, gene flow, another process that may produce gene history variance, has been less studied. In this paper, we propose a simple yet innovative method for species trees estimation in the presence of gene flow. Our method, called STEST (Species Tree Estimation from Speciation Times), constructs species tree estimates from pairwise speciation time or species divergence time estimates. By using methods that estimate speciation times in the presence of gene flow, (for example, M1 (Yang 2010) or SIM3s (Zhu and Yang 2012)), STEST is able to estimate species trees from data subject to gene flow. We develop two methods, called STEST (M1) and STEST (SIM3s), for this purpose. Additionally, we consider the method STEST (M0), which instead uses the M0 method (Yang 2002), a coalescent-based method that does not assume gene flow, to estimate speciation times. It is therefore devised to estimate species trees in the absence of gene flow. Our simulation studies show that STEST (M0) outperforms STEST(M1), STEST (SIM3s) and STEM in terms of estimation accuracy and outperfroms *BEAST in terms of running time when the degree of gene flow is small. STEST (M1) outperforms STEST (M0), STEST (SIM3s), STEM and *BEAST in term of estimation accuracy when the degree of gene flow is large. An empirical data set analyzed by these methods gives species tree estimates that are consistent with the previous results.
RNA-Rocket: An RNA-Seq Analysis Resource for Infectious Disease Research
Authors: Warren Andrew S. , Aurrecoechea Cristina , Brunk Brian , Desai Prerak , Emrich Scott , Giraldo-Calderón Gloria I. , Harb Omar , Hix Deborah , Lawson Daniel , Machi Dustin , Mao Chunhong , McClelland Michael , Nordberg Eric , Shukla Maulik , Vosshall Leslie B. , Wattam Alice R. , Will Rebecca , Yoo Hyun Seung , Sobral Bruno
Published: August 2014

Motivation:

RNA-Seq is a method for profiling transcription using high-throughput sequencing and is an important component of many research projects that wish to study transcript isoforms, condition specific expression, and transcriptional structure. The methods, tools, and technologies employed to perform RNA-Seq analysis continue to change, creating a bioinformatics challenge for researchers who wish to exploit these data. Resources that bring together genomic data, analysis tools, educational material, and computational infrastructure can minimize the overhead required of life science researchers.

Results:

RNA-Rocket is a free service that provides access to RNA-Seq and ChIP-Seq analysis tools for studying infectious diseases. The site makes available thousands of pre-indexed genomes, their annotations, and the ability to stream results to the bioinformatics resources VectorBase, EuPathDB, and PATRIC. The site also provides a combination of experimental data and metadata, examples of pre-computed analysis, step-by-step guides, and a user interface designed to enable both novice and experienced users of RNA-Seq data.

Availability: RNA-Rocket can be found atrnaseq.pathogenportal.orgSource code for this project can be found atgithub.com/cidvbi/PathogenPortal
Incomplete replication generates somatic DNA alterations within Drosophila polytene salivary gland cells
Authors: Yarosh Will , Spradling Allan C.
Published: August 2014

DNA replication remains unfinished in many Drosophila polyploid cells, which harbor disproportionately fewer copies of late-replicating chromosomal regions. By analyzing paired-end high-throughput sequence data from polytene larval salivary gland cells, we define 112 underreplicated (UR) euchromatic regions 60–480 kb in size. To determine the effects of underreplication on genome integrity, we analyzed anomalous read pairs and breakpoint reads throughout the euchromatic genome. Each UR euchromatic region contains many different deletions 10–500 kb in size, while very few deletions are present in fully replicated chromosome regions or UR zones from embryo DNA. Thus, during endocycles, stalled forks within UR regions break and undergo local repair instead of remaining stable and generating nested forks. As a result, each salivary gland cell contains hundreds of unique deletions that account for their copy number reductions. Similar UR regions and deletions were observed in ovarian DNA, suggesting that incomplete replication, fork breakage, and repair occur widely in polytene cells. UR regions are enriched in genes encoding immunoglobulin superfamily proteins and contain many neurally expressed and homeotic genes. We suggest that the extensive somatic DNA instability described here underlies position effect variegation, molds the structure of polytene chromosomes, and should be investigated for possible functions.
Limiting the power of p53 through the ubiquitin proteasome pathway
Authors: Pant Vinod , Lozano Guillermina
Published: August 2014

The ubiquitin proteasome pathway is critical in restraining the activities of the p53 tumor suppressor. Numerous E3 and E4 ligases regulate p53 levels. Additionally, deubquitinating enzymes that modify p53 directly or indirectly also impact p53 function. When alterations of these proteins result in increased p53 activity, cells arrest in the cell cycle, senesce, or apoptose. On the other hand, alterations that result in decreased p53 levels yield tumor-prone phenotypes. This review focuses on the physiological relevance of these important regulators of p53 and their therapeutic implications.
Crystal structure of ethyl (E)-4-(4-chlorophenyl)-4-methoxy-2-oxobut-3-enoate
Authors: Flores Darlene Correia , Vicenti Juliano Rosa de Menezes , Pereira Bruna Ávila , Silva Gabriele Marques Dias da , Zambiazi Priscilla Jussiane
Published: August 2014

In the title compound, C13H13ClO4, the dihedral angle between the chlorobenezene ring and the least-squares plane through the 4-methoxy-2-oxobut-3-enoate ethyl ester residue (r.m.s. deviation = 0.0975 Å) is 54.10 (5)°. In the crystal, molecules are connected by methoxy–ketone and benzene–carboxylate carbonyl C—H...O interactions, generating a supramolecular layer in theacplane.
Crystal structure of 2,9-diphenyl-17λ6-thiatetracyclo[8.7.0.03,8.011,16]heptadeca-1(10),2,4,6,8,11(16),12,14-octaene-17,17-dione
Authors: Gopinath S. , Narayanan P. , Sethusankar K. , Nandakumar Meganathan , Mohanakrishnan Arasambattu K.
Published: August 2014

The title compound, C28H18O2S, is composed of a naphthalene ring system fused with a benzothiophene ring and attached to two phenyl rings. The phenyl rings make dihedral angles of 70.92 (8) and 79.23 (8)° with the essentially planar naphthalene ring system (r.m.s. deviation = 0.031 Å). There is an intramolecular C—H...π interaction present. In the crystal, molecules are linked by C—H...O hydrogen bonds which generateC(7) zigzag chains running parallel to [10-1]. The chains are linkedviafurther C—H...π interactions, forming a three-dimensional structure.
Crystal structure of [propane-1,3-diylbis(piperidine-4,1-diyl)]bis[(pyridin-4-yl)methanone]–4,4′-oxydibenzoic acid (1/1)
Authors: Low Emily M. , LaDuca Robert L.
Published: August 2014

In the title co-crystal, C25H32N4O2·C14H10O5, molecules are connected into supramolecular chains aligned along [102] by O—H...N hydrogen bonding. These aggregate into supramolecular layers oriented parallel to (20-1) by C—H...O interactions. These layers then stack in anABABpattern along theccrystal direction to give the full three-dimensional crystal structure. The central chain in the dipyridylamide has ananti–anticonformation. The dihedral angle between the aromatic ring planes is 29.96 (3)°. Disorder is noted in some of the residues in the structure and this is manifested in two coplanar dispositions of one statistically disordered carboxylic acid group.
Crystal structure of (3E)-3-[(4-nitrophenoxy)methyl]-4-phenylbut-3-en-2-one
Authors: Zukerman-Schpector Julio , Maganhi Stella H. , Moran Paulo J. S. , Paula Bruno R. S. de , Nucci Paulo R. , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: August 2014

In the title compound, C17H15NO4, the conformation about the C=C double bond [1.348 (2) Å] isEwith the ketone group almost co-planar [C—C—C—C torsion angle = 7.2 (2)°] but the phenyl group twisted away [C—C—C—C = 160.93 (17)°]. The terminal aromatic rings are almost perpendicular to each other [dihedral angle = 81.61 (9)°] giving the molecule an overall U-shape. The crystal packing feature benzene-C—H...O(ketone) contacts that lead to supramolecular helical chains along thebaxis. These are connected by π–π interactions between benzene and phenyl rings [inter-centroid distance = 3.6648 (14) Å], resulting in the formation of a supramolecular layer in thebcplane.
Crystal structure of 5-chloro-2,7-dimethyl-3-[(4-methylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1-benzofuran
Authors: Choi Hong Dae , Lee Uk
Published: August 2014

In the title compound, C17H15ClO3S, the dihedral angle between the planes of the benzofuran ring system [r.m.s. deviation = 0.008 Å] and the 4-methylphenyl ring is 77.29 (4)°. In the crystal, molecules are linked by π–π interactions between the benzene rings of neighbouring molecules [centroid–centroid distance = 3.847 (2) Å] and between the benzene and furan rings of neighbouring molecules [centroid–centroid distance = 3.743 (2) Å]. The molecules are stacked along thea-axis direction. In addition, pairs of C—H...O hydrogen bonds are observed between inversion-related dimers: these generateR22(12) loops.
Crystal structure of 4-[(E)-(4-chlorobenzylidene)amino]-3-(2-methylbenzyl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole-5(4H)-thione
Authors: Kamni  , Sarojini B. K. , Manjula P. S. , Narayana B. , Anthal Sumati , Kant Rajni
Published: August 2014

In the title molecule, C17H15ClN4S, the benzene rings form dihedral angles of 16.6 (1) and 77.2 (1)° with the triazole ring. The dihedral angle between the benzene rings is 86.6 (1)°. In the crystal, pairs of N—H...S hydrogen bonds form inversion dimers with graph-set notationR22(8). Weak C—H...S hydrogen bonds link these dimers into layers parallel to (100). Weak intramolecular C—H...S and C—H...N contacts are observed.
The structure of casein micelles: a review of small-angle scattering data
Authors: De Kruif C. G.
Published: August 2014

Casein micelles are association colloids found in mammalian milk. Small-angle scattering data on casein micelles have been collected and are reviewed, including contrast variation. The scattering spectra are quite consistent at medium and high scattering wavevectors [Q= 4πnsin(θ/2)/λ, wherenis the refractive index, λ is the wavelength and θ is the scattering angle]. Differences are noted, especially at lowQ, which may be attributed to sample preparation, particularly the presence of residual fat globules. Scattering spectra are calculated using a generalized scattering function and a composite particle model, and it is possible to give a self-consistent calculation of the spectra using one set of parameters for all contrasts in both small-angle X-ray scattering and small-angle neutron scattering. The data and calculations show that a casein micelle is a homogeneous particle. The polydispersity in size is about 35% and therefore experimental data on particle size depend very much on the method used. A `reference set' of numbers is proposed for casein micelles from pooled cows' milk, which may be given as follows: β = 0.35,R10= 60 nm,Rg= 110 nm,Rhydr= 96 nm (at 90° scattering). Often, use is made of dynamic light scattering (DLS), which gives anRhydr= 〈R6〉/〈R5〉 of 80–100 nm at 90° scattering. Values will be considerably higher at low(er) angles, and lower at backscattering angles, which are currently used in many DLS setups. Larger values are probably due to clusters of casein micelles or residual fat. The structure of a casein micelle can best be described as a protein matrix in which calcium phosphate clusters (2 nm radius) are dispersed. The protein matrix has density variations on a similar length scale. The casein micelle–submicelle model and models with large voids and channels are highly improbable.
Metabolism‐related pharmacokinetic drug−drug interactions with tyrosine kinase inhibitors: current understanding, challenges and recommendations
Authors: Teo Yi Ling , Ho Han Kiat , Chan Alexandre
Published: August 2014

Drug−drug interactions (DDIs) occur when a patient's response to the drug is modified by administration or co‐exposure to another drug. The main cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme, CYP3A4, is implicated in the metabolism of almost all of the tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Therefore, there is a substantial potential for interaction between TKIs and other drugs that modulate the activity of this metabolic pathway. Cancer patients are susceptible to DDIs as they receive many medications, either for supportive care or for treatment of toxicity. Differences in DDI outcomes are generally negligible because of the wide therapeutic window of common drugs. However for anticancer agents, serious clinical consequences may occur from small changes in drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics. Therefore, the objective of this review is to highlight the current understanding of DDIs among TKIs, with a focus on metabolism, as well as to identify challenges in the prediction of DDIs and provide recommendations.
Who are these people? Personality traits and judgments about trade secret misappropriation in post‐employment activities
Authors: Delerue Hélène , Hamid Mariam
Published: August 2014

Trade secret theft is a problem that almost all organizations face. The greatest threat is employee mobility and potential unethical post‐employment behavior. This study investigates the role of individual personality traits in judgments about trade secret misappropriation. Our hypotheses were tested in three studies addressing three different situational contexts: current employees, employees about to be laid off, and students who had quit their job. Relationships were estimated with robust regression. The results show that some personality traits predict judgment about another person's trade secret misappropriation, and that the situational context in which individuals formulate their ethical judgment moderates the impact of personality traits on ethical judgment.
Exploring associations between lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and gastrointestinal (GI) problems in women: a study in women with urological and GI problems vs a control population
Authors: Wyndaele Michel , De Winter Benedicte Y. , Pelckmans Paul A. , De Wachter Stefan , Van Outryve Mark , Wyndaele Jean Jacques
Published: August 2014

Objectives

To study the prevalence of self‐reported lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in women consulting a Gastroenterology clinic with complaints of functional constipation (FC), fecal incontinence (FI) or both, compared with a female control population. Also, to study the influence of FC, FI, or both on self‐reported LUTS in women attending a Urology clinic.

Patients and Methods

We present a retrospective study of data collected through a validated self‐administered bladder and bowel symptom questionnaire in a tertiary referral hospital from three different female populations: 104 controls, 159 gastroenterological patients and 410 urological patients. Based on the reported bowel symptoms, patients were classified as having FC, FI, a combination of both, or, no FC or FI. LUTS were compared between the control population and the gastroenterological patients, and between urological patients with and without concomitant gastroenterological complaints. Results were corrected for possible confounders through logistic regression analysis.

Results

The prevalence of LUTS in the control population was similar to large population‐based studies. Nocturia was significantly more prevalent in gastroenterological patients with FI compared with the control population [odds ratio (OR) 9.1]. Female gastroenterological patients with FC more often reported straining to void (OR 10.3), intermittency (OR 5.5), need to immediately re‐void (OR 3.7) and feeling of incomplete emptying (OR 10.5) compared with the control population. In urological patients, urgency (94%) and urgency urinary incontinence (UUI, 54% of UI) were reported more often by patients with FI than by patients without gastroenterological complaints (58% and 30% of UI respectively), whereas intermittency (OR 3.6), need to immediately re‐void (OR 2.2) and feeling of incomplete emptying (OR 2.2) were reported more often by patients with FC than by patients without gastroenterological complaints.

Conclusion

As LUTS are reported significantly more often by female gastroenterological patients than by a control population, and as there is a difference in self‐reported LUTS between female urological patients with different concomitant gastroenterological complaints, we suggest that general practitioners, gastroenterologists and urologists should always include the assessment of symptoms of the other pelvic organ system in their patient evaluation. The clinical correlations between bowel symptoms and LUTS may be explained by underlying neurological mechanisms.
Topographic determinants of mobile vertebrate predator hotspots: current knowledge and future directions
Authors: Bouchet Phil J. , Meeuwig Jessica J. , Salgado Kent Chandra P. , Letessier Tom B. , Jenner Curt K.
Published: August 2014

Despite being identified as a driver of mobile predator aggregations (hotspots) in both marine and terrestrial environments, topographic complexity has long remained a challenging concept for scientists to visualise and a difficult parameter to estimate. It is only with the advent of high‐speed computers and the recent popularisation of geographical information systems (GIS) that terrain attributes have begun to be quantitatively measured in three‐dimensional space and related to wildlife dynamics, making the well‐established field of geomorphometry (or ‘digital terrain modelling’) a discipline of growing appeal to biologists. Although a diverse array of numerical metrics is now available to describe the shape, geometry and physical properties of natural habitats, few of these are known to, or adequately used by, ecologists. In this review, we examine the nature and usage of 56 geomorphometrics extracted from the ecological modelling literature over a period of 32 years (1979–2011). We show that, in studies of mobile predators, numerous topographic variables have largely been overlooked in favour of single basic metrics that do not, on their own, fully capture the complexity of continuous landscapes. Based on a simulation approach, we assess the redundancy and correlation structure of these metrics and demonstrate that a majority are highly collinear. We highlight a suite of 7–8 complementary metrics which best explain topographic patterns across a bathymetric grid of the west Australian seafloor, and contend that field and analytical protocols should prioritise variables of these types, particularly when the responses of predator populations to physical habitat features are of interest. We suggest that prominent structures such as canyons, seamounts or mountain chains can serve as useful proxies for predator hotspots, especially in remote locations where access to high‐resolution biological data is often limited.
THE EFFECT OF PLAN B ON TEEN ABORTIONS: EVIDENCE FROM THE 2006 FDA RULING
Authors: Cintina Inna , Johansen Morgen S.
Published: August 2014

An increase in the availability of emergency contraception (EC) may lead to a decrease in the abortion rate. The 2006 Food and Drug Administration ruling, which relaxed the prescription requirement for EC for women aged 18 and older, allows us to apply the difference‐in‐difference methodology on the age‐by‐year‐by‐state abortion data to test this hypothesis. Contrary to the literature, we find a moderate reduction in abortion rates among women aged 18 and 19 after 2006 in states that were affected by the change, compared with changes in the control group. These results are robust in a number of specifications and pass the event specification test. (JEL J13, J18)
Typology of Student Citizenship
Authors: Geboers Ellen , Geijsel Femke , Admiraal Wilfried , ten Dam Geert
Published: August 2014

Most of the empirical frameworks and theories concerned with the development of citizenship today are quite complex and only provide some guidance for what citizenship education should attend to; they do not provide insight into the actual citizenship of students. We constructed a typology of student citizenship, on the basis of data collected from students. Patterns of scores for the citizenship orientations and citizenship knowledge of students were examined, and four clearly interpretable profiles could be identified (committed citizenship, indifferent citizenship, ordinary citizenship and self‐assured citizenship). A sample of 7,768 students from grades 5 to 9 (aged 11–16 years) from 38 primary and secondary education schools participated in this research. The typology was then cross‐validated on a separate sample of 15,940 students from Dutch primary and secondary education schools. The types of the citizenship differed depending on the individual demographic characteristics of the students and their level of education. Implications of the typology for citizenship education and future research are discussed.
Two's Company: Composition, Structure and Performance of Entrepreneurial Pairs
Authors: Coad Alex , Timmermans Bram
Published: August 2014

We explore the effects of diverse team composition on the survival and growth of new ventures using the Danish Linked Employer‐Employee database. To get cleaner measures of diverse team composition, we focus on entrepreneurial dyads, and also investigate the asymmetric hierarchical effects of team composition by distinguishing between the ‘primary’ and the ‘secondary’ member. We complement existing work by showing that heterogeneity in team composition is moderated by the asymmetric hierarchical structure within the team, and that a unidimensional diversity indicator (which is usually applied) fails to capture a number of performance effects of heterogeneous team composition. Pairs of younger individuals have lower survival chances but higher employment growth. Pairs led by a male tend toward ‘jobless growth’ in the sense that they have higher growth of profits and sales but not employment. Family firms have lower employment growth, especially when formed with one's mother.
Comparative evaluation of potential indicators and temporal sampling protocols for monitoring genetic erosion
Authors: Hoban Sean , Arntzen Jan A. , Bruford Michael W. , Godoy José A. , Rus Hoelzel A. , Segelbacher Gernot , Vilà Carles , Bertorelle Giorgio
Published: August 2014

Genetic biodiversity contributes to individual fitness, species' evolutionary potential, and ecosystem stability. Temporal monitoring of the genetic status and trends of wild populations' genetic diversity can provide vital data to inform policy decisions and management actions. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding which genetic metrics, temporal sampling protocols, and genetic markers are sufficiently sensitive and robust, on conservation‐relevant timescales. Here, we tested six genetic metrics and various sampling protocols (number and arrangement of temporal samples) for monitoring genetic erosion following demographic decline. To do so, we utilized individual‐based simulations featuring an array of different initial population sizes, types and severity of demographic decline, and DNA markers [single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and microsatellites] as well as decline followed by recovery. Number of alleles markedly outperformed other indicators across all situations. The type and severity of demographic decline strongly affected power, while the number and arrangement of temporal samples had small effect. Sampling 50 individuals at as few as two time points with 20 microsatellites performed well (good power), and could detect genetic erosion while 80–90% of diversity remained. This sampling and genotyping effort should often be affordable. Power increased substantially with more samples or markers, and we observe that power of 2500 SNPs was nearly equivalent to 250 microsatellites, a result of theoretical and practical interest. Our results suggest high potential for using historic collections in monitoring programs, and demonstrate the need to monitor genetic as well as other levels of biodiversity.
Dynamic respiratory endoscopic findings pre‐ and post laryngoplasty inThoroughbred racehorses
Authors: Leutton J. L. , Lumsden J. M.
Published: August 2014

Reasons for performing study

To investigate laryngeal function in cases of recurrent laryngeal neuropathy pre‐ and post laryngoplasty (LP) using dynamic respiratory endoscopy (DRE).

Objectives

To compare therima glottidisarea duringDREpre‐ and postLP; document all forms of dynamic upper airway obstruction (DUAO) pre‐ and postLPand investigate the relationship between post operative abduction at rest and exercise.

Study design

Prospective case series.

Methods

Thoroughbred racehorses with pre‐ and postLP DREwere included. Left‐to‐right arytenoid cartilage angle ratios andrima glottidisarea ratios were used to quantify laryngeal function during rest and exercise, pre‐ and postLP.

Results

In 35 horses, mean pre‐LPratios were greater during rest (left‐to‐right quotient angle ratio [LRQ] 0.76 ± 0.13; left‐to‐right arytenoid ratio [LRR] 0.72 ± 0.14;rima glottidisarea ratio [RGA] 0.40 ± 0.10) than exercise (LRQ0.39 ± 0.16, P<0.001;LRR0.38 ± 0.16, P<0.001;RGA0.15 ± 0.05, P<0.001). Exercising ratios were larger postLP(LRQ0.61 ± 0.13;LRR0.60 ± 0.12;RGA0.30 ± 0.08) than pre‐LP(LRQ0.39 ± 0.16, P<0.001;LRR0.38 ± 0.16, P<0.001;RGA0.15 ± 0.05, P<0.001). A positive linear relationship was found between postLPresting and exercising ratios (R2= 0.48; P<0.001) and post operative abduction grades (R2= 0.63; P<0.001). Pre‐LPall horses demonstrated left arytenoid cartilage collapse with bilateral vocal cord collapse and 37% had aryepiglottic fold collapse. PostLP13 horses (37%) developed additionalDUAOs and these horses had smallerRGAs (0.25 ± 0.08) than horses that did not developDUAOs (0.32 ± 0.07, P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Multiple forms ofDUAOoccurred pre‐LPand additional forms often developed postLP. PostLPthe degree of arytenoid cartilage abduction at rest was useful to predict the degree of abduction during exercise.
Sorting or Shaping? The Gendered Economic Outcomes of Immigration Policy in Canada
Authors: Elrick Jennifer , Lightman Naomi
Published: August 2014

Using a growth model analysis of Canada's Longitudinal Survey of Immigrants to Canada (LSIC), we establish a significant relationship between application status — i.e., the distinction in immigration policy between primary and secondary migrants — and individual wages. This relationship is associated with an earnings disadvantage for secondary migrants, who are disproportionately female. The disadvantage persists over time, even when individual human capital and personal characteristics, household context, and pre-existing differences in the relative employability of spouses are taken into account. We outline some possible explanations for this effect, as well as implications for immigration policy makers.
A pilot study of angiogenin in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: a novel potential biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis?
Authors: Jiang Hong , Zhang Lei , Yu Ying , Liu Ming , Jin Xuejuan , Zhang Peipei , Yu Peng , Zhang Shuning , Zhu Hongmin , Chen Ruizhen , Zou Yunzeng , Ge Junbo
Published: August 2014

Characteristics of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF) have not yet been fully understood. The objectives of this pilot study are to detect protein expression profile in the sera of HFPEF patients, and to identify potential biomarkers for the disease. Five hundred and seven proteins were detected in the sera of healthy volunteers and patients with either HFPEF or hypertension using antibody microarrays (three in each group). The results showed that the serum concentrations of 17 proteins (e.g. angiogenin, activin A and artemin) differed considerably between HFPEF and non‐HFPEF patients (hypertensive patients and healthy controls), while a protein expression pattern distinct from that in non‐HFPEF patients was associated with HFPEF patients. The up‐regulation of angiogenin in both HFPEF patients with LVEF ≥50% (P = 0.004) and a subset of HFPEF patients with LVEF = 41–49% (P < 0.001) was further validated in 16 HFPEF patients and 16 healthy controls. Meanwhile, angiogenin distinguished HFPEF patients from controls with a mean area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.88 (P < 0.001) and a diagnostic cut‐off point of 426 ng/ml. Moreover, the angiogenin levels in HFPEF patients were positively correlated with Lg(N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide, NT‐proBNP) (P < 0.001). In addition, high angiogenin level (≥426 ng/ml) was a predictor of all‐cause death within a short‐term follow‐up duration, but not in the longer term of 36 months. This pilot study indicates that the aforementioned 17 potential biomarkers, such as angiogenin, may hold great promise for both diagnosis and prognosis assessment of HFPEF.
MicroRNA‐145: a potent tumour suppressor that regulates multiple cellular pathways
Authors: Cui Shi‐Yun , Wang Rui , Chen Long‐Bang
Published: August 2014

MicroRNAs are endogenous, small (18–25 nucleotides) non‐coding RNAs, which regulate genes expression by directly binding to the 3′‐untranslated regions of the target messenger RNAs. Emerging evidence shows that alteration of microRNAs is involved in cancer development. MicroRNA‐145 is commonly down‐regulated in many types of cancer, regulating various cellular processes, such as the cell cycle, proliferation, apoptosis and invasion, by targeting multiple oncogenes. This review aims to summarize the recent published literature on the role of microRNA‐145 in regulating tumourigenesis and progression, and explore its potential for cancer diagnosis, prognosis and treatment.
The FGF‐1‐specific single‐chain antibody scFv1C9 effectively inhibits breast cancer tumour growth and metastasis
Authors: Shi Hengliang , Fu Chunling , Wang Wei , Li Yu , Du Shuang , Cao Rangjuan , Chen Jingying , Sun Dong , Zhang Zhongyu , Wang Xingzhi , Zhu Xiaojuan
Published: August 2014

Immunotherapy mediated by recombinant antibodies is an effective therapeutic strategy for a variety of cancers. In a previous study, we demonstrated that the fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF‐1)‐specific recombinant antibody scFv1C9 arrests the cell cycle at the G0/G1 transition by blocking the intracrine FGF‐1 pathway in breast cancer cells. Here, we further show that the overexpression of scFv1C9 in MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells by lentiviral infection resulted in decreased tumourigenicity, tumour growth and lung metastasis through FGF‐1 neutralization. We found that scFv1C9 resulted in the up‐regulation of p21, which in turn inhibited the expression of CDK2 and blocked cell cycle progression. To explore the potential role of scFv1C9 in vivo, we delivered the gene into solid tumours by electroporation, which resulted in significant inhibition of tumour growth. In tumour tissue sections, immunohistochemical staining of the cellular proliferation marker Ki‐67 and the microvessel marker CD31 showed a reduction in the proliferative index and microvessel density, respectively, upon expression of scFv1C9 compared with the appropriate controls. Thus, our data indicate a central role for scFv1C9 in blocking the intracrine pathway of FGF‐1, therefore, scFv1C9 could be developed in an effective therapeutic for breast cancer.
Comparability of Single Measurements of Serum Testosterone to the 24-Hour Cavg in Patients Using Testosterone 2% Solution
Authors: Muram David , Baygani Simin
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Efficacy of testosterone replacement therapy is determined by the proportion of men with 24-hour average serum testosterone concentration (Cavg) in the normal range. In clinical practice, monitoring and dose adjustments are based on single testosterone measurements; however, how single measurements reflect Cavg is unclear.

Aim

This post-hoc analysis evaluated whether single serum testosterone measurements and Cavg from the same day are both in the normal range in men receiving testosterone replacement therapy.

Methods

In an open-label, multicenter, titration trial, androgen-deficient men (N = 155) were started on 60-mg daily morning dose of testosterone 2% solution (Axiron®, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA) applied to axillae (30 mg/axilla). Serum testosterone Cavg was determined on Days 15, 60, and 120. If necessary, dose was adjusted to maintain Cavg in the normal range (300–1,050 ng/dL). This analysis included subjects (n = 105) whose Cavg was within the normal range on Days 15, 60, and 120.

Main Outcome Measures

Proportion of men with normal serum testosterone levels at 2, 4, or 8 hours post-dose on Days 15, 60, and 120.

Results

Greater than 93% of subjects had testosterone serum levels within the normal range 2, 4, or 8 hours post-dose on at least 1 day. In subjects with blood samples available from Days 15 and 60 or Days 15 and 120, 71.1% to 79.8% had normal levels at 2, 4, or 8 hours post-dose on both days, and in subjects with blood samples available from Days 15, 60, and 120, 63.9% to 68.8% had normal levels at 2, 4, or 8 hours post-application on all 3 days.

Conclusion

Less than 70% of single testosterone measurements made on 3 separate days were concordant with same-day Cavg for all 3 days. These findings, which are specific for testosterone 2% solution, indicate that single measurements do not always reflect the 24-hour Cavg, and may possibly lead to inappropriate dose adjustments.