bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient electron refrigeration using superconductor/spin-filter devices
Authors: Kawabata Shiro , Ozaeta Asier , Vasenko Andrey S. , Hekking Frank W. J. , Sebastián Bergeret F.
Published: July 2013

Efficient electron-refrigeration based on a normal-metal/spin-filter/superconductor junction is proposed and demonstrated theoretically. The spin-filtering effect leads to values of the cooling power much higher than in conventional normal-metal/nonmagnetic-insulator/superconductor coolers and allows for an efficient extraction of heat from the normal metal. We demonstrate that highly efficient cooling can be realized in both ballistic and diffusive multi-channel junctions in which the reduction of the electron temperature from 300 mK to around 50 mK can be achieved. Our results indicate the practical usefulness of spin-filters for efficiently cooling detectors, sensors, and quantum devices.
Particle focusing in a microchannel with acoustic metafluid
Authors: Cai Xiaobing , Guo Qiuquan , Hu Gengkai , Yang Jun
Published: July 2013

This work proposed a method of particle focusing by acoustic waves in a microfluidic channel with meta-structures. The channel was first filled by homogeneous metafluid possessing negative bulk modulus or density, mechanism and efficacy of particle focusing in such channel have been studied. Then as a realization, a structural microchannel composed of acoustic resonant elements has been proposed, which generated similar acoustic field gradient as that in homogeneous metafluid. Accordingly, particle movements in the structural microchannel were investigated and particle focusing was also achieved. The proposed particle focusing method is independent on the type of incident wave and microchannel's size.
Absolute atomic oxygen and nitrogen densities in radio-frequency driven atmospheric pressure cold plasmas: Synchrotron vacuum ultra-violet high-resolution Fourier-transform absorption measurements
Authors: Niemi K. , O'Connell D. , de Oliveira N. , Joyeux D. , Nahon L. , Booth J. P. , Gans T.
Published: July 2013

Reactive atomic species play a key role in emerging cold atmospheric pressure plasma applications, in particular, in plasma medicine. Absolute densities of atomic oxygen and atomic nitrogen were measured in a radio-frequency driven non-equilibrium plasma operated at atmospheric pressure using vacuum ultra-violet (VUV) absorption spectroscopy. The experiment was conducted on the DESIRS synchrotron beamline using a unique VUV Fourier-transform spectrometer. Measurements were carried out in plasmas operated in helium with air-like N2/O2 (4:1) admixtures. A maximum in the O-atom concentration of (9.1 ± 0.7)×1020 m−3 was found at admixtures of 0.35 vol. %, while the N-atom concentration exhibits a maximum of (5.7 ± 0.4)×1019 m−3 at 0.1 vol. %.
Laser-induced fusion of human embryonic stem cells with optical tweezers
Authors: Chen Shuxun , Cheng Jinping , Kong Chi-Wing , Wang Xiaolin , Han Cheng Shuk , Li Ronald A. , Sun Dong
Published: July 2013

We report a study on the laser-induced fusion of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) at the single-cell level. Cells were manipulated by optical tweezers and fused under irradiation with pulsed UV laser at 355 nm. Successful fusion was indicated by green fluorescence protein transfer. The influence of laser pulse energy on the fusion efficiency was investigated. The fused products were viable as gauged by live cell staining. Successful fusion of hESCs with somatic cells was also demonstrated. The reported fusion outcome may facilitate studies of cell differentiation, maturation, and reprogramming.
Detecting chaos in irregularly sampled time series
Authors: Kulp C. W.
Published: July 2013

Recently, Wiebe and Virgin [Chaos 22, 013136 (2012)] developed an algorithm which detects chaos by analyzing a time series' power spectrum which is computed using the Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT). Their algorithm, like other time series characterization algorithms, requires that the time series be regularly sampled. Real-world data, however, are often irregularly sampled, thus, making the detection of chaotic behavior difficult or impossible with those methods. In this paper, a characterization algorithm is presented, which effectively detects chaos in irregularly sampled time series. The work presented here is a modification of Wiebe and Virgin's algorithm and uses the Lomb-Scargle Periodogram (LSP) to compute a series' power spectrum instead of the DFT. The DFT is not appropriate for irregularly sampled time series. However, the LSP is capable of computing the frequency content of irregularly sampled data. Furthermore, a new method of analyzing the power spectrum is developed, which can be useful for differentiating between chaotic and non-chaotic behavior. The new characterization algorithm is successfully applied to irregularly sampled data generated by a model as well as data consisting of observations of variable stars.
Mono, Di and Trifunctional Cyclic Organic Peroxides: The Effect of Substituents and Ring Size on their Thermolysis in 1,4-dioxan
Authors: Nesprias Rosa , Eyler Gladys , Cañizo Adriana
Published: July 2013

The thermal decomposition reaction of cyclic organic peroxides was studied in 1,4-dioxan at initial concentrations between ~10–4 and 10–2 mol L–1 and at a temperature interval between 100 and 170°C, according to the thermal stability of each compound. The kinetic behaviour observed in all systems studied follows a pseudo first order kinetic law up to at least ~86 % of peroxide conversion. An important substituent effect is operative on the rate constant values and consequently on the activation parameters of the thermal decomposition reaction. The application of different treatments (compensation affect or a statistical treatment) on the kinetic data shows the existence of two sets of cyclic peroxides with comparable kinetic behaviour. Different peroxide–solvent interaction mechanisms can be considered within each series.
The consistency of relative incidence rates of nonviral sexually transmissible infections from health insurance claims and surveillance data, 2005–10
Authors: Owusu-Edusei Kwame , Roby TaNisha , Wright Shaunta S. , Chesson Harrell W.
Published: July 2013

Background Given the growing popularity of administrative data for health research, information on the differences and similarities between administrative data and customary data sources (e.g. surveillance) will help to inform the use of administrative data in the field of sexually transmissible infections (STIs). The objective of this study was to compare the incidence rates of three nonviral STIs from a large health insurance administrative database (MarketScan) with surveillance data. Methods: We computed and compared STI rates for 2005–10 from MarketScan and national surveillance data for three major nonviral STIs (i.e. chlamydia (Chlamydia trachomatis), gonorrhoea (Neisseria gonorrhoeae) and syphilis (Treponema pallidum)). For administrative data, we assessed the sensitivity of the rates to enrolee inclusion criteria: continuous (≥320 member-days) versus all enrolees. Relative rates were computed for 5-year age groups and by gender. Results: The administrative database rates were significantly lower (P < 0.01) than those in the national surveillance data, except for syphilis in females. Gonorrhoea and syphilis rates based on administrative data were significantly lower (P < 0.01) for all enrolees versus continuous enrolees only. The relative STI rates by age group from the administrative data were similar to those in the surveillance data. Conclusions: Although absolute STI rates in administrative data were lower than in the surveillance data, relative STI rates from administrative data were consistent with national surveillance data. For gonorrhoea and syphilis, the estimated rates from administrative data were sensitive to the enrolee inclusion criteria. Future studies should examine the potential for administrative data to complement surveillance data.
HIV and hepatitis C virus co-infection among men who have sex with men in Sydney, and associations with sexual and drug use practices
Authors: Lea Toby , Lee Evelyn , Mao Limin , de Wit John , Holt Martin
Published: July 2013

Background: In recent years there has been an increase in the incidence of acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) in men who have sex with men (MSM). The aim of the present study was to examine the prevalence of HIV/HCV co-infection among MSM in Sydney, and to compare sexual and drug use risk practices of HIV/HCV co-infected MSM with HIV and HCV mono-infected MSM. Methods: Data were collected from gay and other homosexually active men as part of the ongoing Gay Community Periodic Surveys (GCPS). The analysis herein presents findings from the Sydney GCPS in August 2011, which collected data on HCV for the first time. The survey was completed by 2009 respondents. Results: Three per cent of respondents self-reported being HCV positive (representing 9.0% of HIV-positive men and 1.9% of HIV-negative men). Overall, 1.2% of respondents reported being HIV/HCV co-infected. HIV/HCV co-infected men were more likely than HCV or HIV mono-infected men to report several sexual and drug use practices that may increase the risk of blood-borne virus transmission. Conclusions: Consistent with other research, we found a higher prevalence of HCV among HIV-positive than HIV-negative men. Several risk practices were more commonly reported among HIV/HCV co-infected men. These findings, and the increasing incidence of HCV in MSM, reinforce the need for routine HCV screening in this population.
Online purchases of an expanded range of condom sizes in comparison to current dimensional requirements allowable by US national standards
Authors: Cecil Michael , Warner Lee , Siegler Aaron J.
Published: July 2013

Background Across studies, 35–50% of men describe condoms as fitting poorly. Rates of condom use may be inhibited in part due to the inaccessibility of appropriately sized condoms. As regulated medical devices, condom sizes conform to national standards such as those developed by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) or international standards such as those developed by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO). We describe the initial online sales experience of an expanded range of condom sizes and assess uptake in relation to the current required standard dimensions of condoms. Methods: Data regarding the initial 1000 sales of an expanded range of condom sizes in the United Kingdom were collected from late 2011 through to early 2012. Ninety-five condom sizes, comprising 14 lengths (83–238 mm) and 12 widths (41–69 mm), were available. Results: For the first 1000 condom six-pack units that were sold, a total of 83 of the 95 unique sizes were purchased, including all 14 lengths and 12 widths, and both the smallest and largest condoms. Initial condom purchases were made by 572 individuals from 26 countries. Only 13.4% of consumer sales were in the ASTM’s allowable range of sizes. Conclusions: These initial sales data suggest consumer interest in an expanded choice of condom sizes that fall outside the range currently allowable by national and international standards organisations.
Variations in soil organic carbon for two soil types and six land uses in the Murray Catchment, New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Davy M. C. , Koen T. B.
Published: July 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate variations in soil organic carbon (SOC) for two soil types and six common land uses in the New South Wales Murray Catchment and to explore the factors influencing those variations. Samples were collected from 100 sites on duplex soils (Ustalfs) of the Slopes region, and 100 sites on red-brown earths (Xeralfs) of the Plains region. Stocks of SOC (0–30 cm) across the study area ranged between 22.3 and 86.0 t ha–1, with means (± s.e.) of 42.0 ± 1.3 and 37.9 ± 0.8 t ha–1 for the Slopes and Plains regions, respectively. Higher SOC stocks were present in pasture-dominated land uses compared with mixed cropping in the Slopes region, with particularly high stocks found in pastures at positions on a slope of 7–10%. No significant differences in SOC stocks were identified between land-use groups (pastures or cropping) in the Plains region (<500-mm rainfall zone). Significant correlations were found between SOC and a range of climatic, topographical, and soil physico-chemical variables at both the catchment and sub-regional scale. Soil physico-chemical and topographical factors play an important role in explaining SOC variation and should be incorporated into models that aim to predict SOC sequestration across agricultural landscapes.
H-convex distributions in stratified groups
Authors: Bonfiglioli A. , Lanconelli E. , Magnani V. , Scienza M.
Published: July 2013

We extend Dudley’s characterization of convex functions to the framework of h-convex distributions on stratified groups. Precisely, we prove that every distribution with nonnegative horizontal Hessian is defined by an h-convex function.
The Materials Science beamline upgrade at the Swiss Light Source
Authors: Willmott P. R. , Meister D. , Leake S. J. , Lange M. , Bergamaschi A. , Böge M. , Calvi M. , Cancellieri C. , Casati N. , Cervellino A. , Chen Q. , David C. , Flechsig U. , Gozzo F. , Henrich B. , Jäggi-Spielmann S. , Jakob B. , Kalichava I. , Karvinen P. , Krempasky J. , Lüdeke A. , Lüscher R. , Maag S. , Quitmann C. , Reinle-Schmitt M. L. , Schmidt T. , Schmitt B. , Streun A. , Vartiainen I. , Vitins M. , Wang X. , Wullschleger R.
Published: July 2013

The Materials Science beamline at the Swiss Light Source has been operational since 2001. In late 2010, the original wiggler source was replaced with a novel insertion device, which allows unprecedented access to high photon energies from an undulator installed in a medium-energy storage ring. In order to best exploit the increased brilliance of this new source, the entire front-end and optics had to be redesigned. In this work, the upgrade of the beamline is described in detail. The tone is didactic, from which it is hoped the reader can adapt the concepts and ideas to his or her needs.
A scenario for impacts of water availability loss due to climate change on riverine fish extinction rates
Authors: Tedesco Pablo A. , Oberdorff Thierry , Cornu Jean‐François , Beauchard Olivier , Brosse Sébastien , Dürr Hans H. , Grenouillet Gaël , Leprieur Fabien , Tisseuil Clément , Zaiss Rainer , Hugueny Bernard
Published: July 2013

Current models estimating impact of habitat loss on biodiversity in the face of global climate change usually project only percentages of species ‘committed to extinction’ on an uncertain time‐scale. Here, we show that this limitation can be overcome using an empirically derived ‘background extinction rate–area’ curve to estimate natural rates and project future rates of freshwater fish extinction following variations in river drainage area resulting from global climate change.

 Based on future climatic projections, we quantify future active drainage basin area losses and combine them with the extinction rate–area curve to estimate the future change in extinction rate for each river basin. We then project the number of extinct species in each river basin using a global data base of freshwater fish species richness.

 The median projected extinction rate owing to climate change conditions is c. 7% higher than the median background extinction rate. A closer look at the pattern reveals great geographical variations highlighting an amplification of aridity by 2090 and subsequent increase in extinction rates in presently semi‐arid and Mediterranean regions. Among the 10% most‐impacted drainage basins, water availability loss will increase background extinction rates by 18·2 times (median value).

 Projected numbers of extinct species by 2090 show that only 20 river basins among the 1010 analysed would experience fish species extinctions attributable to water availability loss from climate change. Predicted numbers of extinct species for these rivers range from 1 to 5.

Synthesis and applications. Our results strongly contrast with previous alarming predictions of huge surface‐dependent climate change–driven extinctions for riverine fishes and other taxonomic groups. Furthermore, based on well‐documented fish extinctions from Central and North American drainages over the last century, we also show that recent extinction rates are, on average, 130 times greater than our projected extinction rates from climate change. This last result implies that current anthropogenic threats generate extinction rates in rivers far greater than the ones expected from future water availability loss. We thus argue that conservation actions should be preferentially focused on reducing the impacts of present‐day anthropogenic drivers of riverine fish extinctions.
EDITORIAL: Ecological science for ecosystem services and the stewardship of Natural Capital
Authors: Hails Rosemary S. , Ormerod Steve J.
Published: July 2013

National and international assessments are increasingly highlighting the unsustainable use of earth's natural resources in the face of population increase, growing material affluence and global change. In all likelihood, the use and degradation of natural resources will continue.

In contrast to resource depletion, the concept of natural capital emphasises how the environment is an asset to be managed, to ensure that the benefits which flow from it are sustained for future generations. These benefits are the ecosystem goods and services upon which all people rely for their continued survival and well‐being both now and, ideally, in perpetuity.

Despite their importance, the evidence‐base and quantitative understanding of links between biodiversity, ecosystem function and ecosystem services are insufficient to allow informed use and management. Moreover, the concepts of natural capital and ecosystem services are insufficiently mainstream to influence decisions that currently favour the production of food and fibre rather than less tangible services such as climate regulation, air and water purification, pollination or the contributions of environment to health.

There are specific challenges to ecological science in this interdisciplinary endeavour: specifically, to develop frameworks for identifying and monitoring natural capital; to parameterise factors affecting ecosystem services and their resilience to change; to integrate the complexity of ecological systems into ecosystem service valuation; and to characterise the synergies and trade‐offs between ecosystem services in different management and policy scenarios.

Synthesis and applications. The five papers in this Special Profile exemplify just some of the leading work through which ecologists in the UK are contributing nationally and internationally to these needs, stemming from the UK National Ecosystem Assessment ‐ the first national scale exercise of its type in the world. We expect a major, worldwide increase in work on ecosystem services and natural capital in future as decisions on ecosystem use of management are squeezed increasingly between the needs of exploitation and protection.
Greening of arid Australia: New insights from extreme years
Authors: Wardle Glenda M. , Pavey Chris R. , Dickman Chris R.
Published: July 2013

In comparison with drylands elsewhere, the unpredictability of rainfall in central Australia is globally distinctive. The transformative rhythms of arid Australia reflect extremes of climatic conditions rather than seasons, and are characterized by irregular pulses of productivity that punctuate long periods of drought. These decadal‐scale dynamics are only now beginning to be understood. Further complications in predicting and managing the biological processes within these landscapes arise from the vast spatial extent of arid and semi‐arid communities, and increasing recognition of the heterogeneities that drive the formation of patterns across multiple scales. In 2010 and 2011 flooding rains broke long‐standing rainfall records and triggered an anticipated greening of the typically dry red landscapes of central Australia. These unusual climatic events provided an unparalleled opportunity to test ideas about productivity and function, bottom‐up versus top‐down effects, and differential responses of biota that reflect landscape connections and heterogeneity. Migrations of species outside their known ranges, irruptions of rodents and redistribution of resources are just a few of the novel observations that were reported. The transformation of the landscape also presented land managers with challenges stemming from the influx of invasive species that trigger novel ecological interactions and processes. The papers presented in this special issue describe how ecologists and managers responded to the unprecedented rainfall events, key lessons that we have learnt, and practical recommendations on how to improve conservation outcomes for the fragile inland environment into the future.
Three‐Dimensional Architecture of the Ovine Oviductal Mucosa
Authors: Yániz J. L. , Carretero T. , Recreo P. , Arceiz E. , Santolaria P.
Published: July 2013

The objective of this work was to establish for the first time a complete three‐dimensional model of the ovine oviductal mucosa. The oviducts of 15 cyclic ewes were examined combining the direct examination of the mucosa, by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and histology, with the SEM observation of resin moulds of the oviductal lumen. Around the ostium abdominale, all longitudinal primary folds and wide secondary are seen to form cul‐de‐sacs, with their opening pointing in the ovarian direction were observed. At the connection of the ampulla to the isthmus, there is a sharp change in the morphology, from a high folded structure to a smoother one. In the utero‐tubal junction, the primary folds broaden and become more voluminous, the lumen has a slit‐like appearance, and secondary folds form cul‐de‐sacs with their opening oriented towards the uterus. The areas between the folds throughout the lumen of the oviduct show a high degree of complexity. The presence of crypts was observed in all the regions studied, branched in the ampulla and spiniform in the isthmus. Marked variations were observed in the oviductal epithelium depending on the oviductal segment and the basal or apical areas of the folds. The variations found regarding the phase of the oestrous cycle were similar to those described in studies of other species. The anatomy of the oviductal mucosa provides a complex system that seems to be designed to regulate the movement of fluids and the passage of cells within the oviductal canal.
Activation, Conversion, or Reinforcement? The Impact of Partisan News Exposure on Vote Choice
Authors: Dilliplane Susanna
Published: July 2013

This study uses multiwave panel data from the 2008 presidential election to investigate the impact of partisan news exposure on changes in vote preferences over time. Overcoming key limitations of prior research, the analysis distinguishes among the potential effects originally delineated by Lazarsfeld and colleagues (): (1) activation—motivating partisans who initially say they are undecided or planning to defect to shift their vote back to their own party's candidate; (2) conversion—motivating partisans to shift their vote to the opposing party's candidate; and (3) reinforcement—strengthening partisans’ preference for their initial vote choice. The results reveal only modest evidence that partisan news reinforces existing vote preferences. Surprisingly, partisan news plays a more robust role motivating changes in vote choice: news slanted toward citizens’ own partisanship increased the odds of activation and decreased the odds of conversion, while news slanted away from citizens’ own partisanship proved a strong counterforce working in the opposite direction.
Functional role of CD44v‐xCT system in the development of spasmolytic polypeptide‐expressing metaplasia
Authors: Wada Takeyuki , Ishimoto Takatsugu , Seishima Ryo , Tsuchihashi Kenji , Yoshikawa Momoko , Oshima Hiroko , Oshima Masanobu , Masuko Takashi , Wright Nicholas A. , Furuhashi Satoshi , Hirashima Kotaro , Baba Hideo , Kitagawa Yuko , Saya Hideyuki , Nagano Osamu
Published: July 2013

Cancer development is often preceded by the appearance of preneoplastic lesions. In gastric carcinogenesis, chronic inflammation and histopathologic progression of the stomach epithelium lead to the development of metaplasia and eventually adenocarcinoma. The cell surface protein CD44, especially its variant isoforms (CD44v), has been implicated in metaplasia–carcinoma sequence progression in the stomach. We recently found that CD44v interacts with and stabilizes xCT, a subunit of the cystine transporter system xc(–), in cancer cells and thereby increases cystine uptake and confers resistance to various types of cellular stress in vivo. The functional relevance of CD44v and xCT in the development of preneoplastic lesions, however, has remained unknown. We have now examined the role of the CD44v‐xCT system in the development of spasmolytic polypeptide‐expressing metaplasia (SPEM) in mouse models of gastric carcinogenesis. CD44v was found to be expressed de novo in SPEM, and CD44v+ metaplastic cells manifested upregulation of xCT expression compared with CD44v− cells. Genetic ablation of CD44 or treatment with sulfasalazine, an inhibitor of xCT‐dependent cystine transport, suppressed the development of SPEM and subsequent gastric tumor growth. Therapy targeted to CD44v‐xCT could thus prove effective for prevention or attenuation of the CD44v‐dependent development of preneoplastic lesions and cancer.
Causal Responsibility and Counterfactuals
Authors: Lagnado David A. , Gerstenberg Tobias , Zultan Ro'i
Published: July 2013

How do people attribute responsibility in situations where the contributions of multiple agents combine to produce a joint outcome? The prevalence of over‐determination in such cases makes this a difficult problem for counterfactual theories of causal responsibility. In this article, we explore a general framework for assigning responsibility in multiple agent contexts. We draw on the structural model account of actual causation (e.g., Halpern & Pearl, 2005) and its extension to responsibility judgments (Chockler & Halpern, 2004). We review the main theoretical and empirical issues that arise from this literature and propose a novel model of intuitive judgments of responsibility. This model is a function of both pivotality (whether an agent made a difference to the outcome) and criticality (how important the agent is perceived to be for the outcome, before any actions are taken). The model explains empirical results from previous studies and is supported by a new experiment that manipulates both pivotality and criticality. We also discuss possible extensions of this model to deal with a broader range of causal situations. Overall, our approach emphasizes the close interrelations between causality, counterfactuals, and responsibility attributions.
Immune responses to an upper body tri‐set resistance training session
Authors: Brunelli Diego T. , Caram Kaue , Nogueira Felipe R. D. , Libardi Cleiton A. , Prestes Jonato , Cavaglieri Cláudia R.
Published: July 2013

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the acute immune responses to an upper body tri‐set resistance training (RT) session in RT trained individuals. Eighteen young trained men (22·0 ± 1·8 years) were randomly assigned to an exercise group (EG; n = 9) or control group (CG; n = 9). The EG completed an acute tri‐set RT protocol using two combinations of three exercises for the same muscle group with six to eight repetitions at 75% of one repetition maximum (1RM) for each exercise. Blood samples were collected before (Pre), and 15 min (Post) and 24 h (P24h) after the acute RT protocol to determine basal and acute total leucocytes and leucocyte subsets counting, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and cortisol. There were significant increases in total leucocytes, monocytes and neutrophils at Post as compared with Pre (P<0·05). Additionally, total leucocytes and monocytes were reduced even at P24h when compared to Pre (P<0·05). There were no significant changes in plasma concentrations of TNF‐α, IL‐6 and cortisol throughout the measured moments. As compared to CG, EG demonstrated very large effect sizes for total leucocytes, neutrophils and monocytes 15 min postprotocol and a reduction (trivial and small effect sizes) P24h. These results suggest that the tri‐set RT session did not exacerbate the acute inflammatory response and might be a good option for variations in RT methods for trained individuals.
Learning curve of conventional transbronchial needle aspiration
Authors: Tutar Nuri , Büyükoğlan Hakan , Yılmaz İnsu , Kanbay Asiye , Önal Ömer , Bilgin Mehmet , Canöz Özlem , Demir Ramazan , Oyak Fatma Sema , Gülmez İnci , Çetinkaya Erdoğan
Published: July 2013

Background and Aims

Intrathoracic lymphadenopathy usually occurs as a result of neoplasm, granulomatous diseases, infections or reactive hyperplasia. Conventional transbronchial needle aspiration (C‐TBNA) is a cheap and safe procedure for diagnosing intrathoracic lymphadenopathy. The aim of this study was to assess the learning curve and diagnostic accuracy of C‐TBNA after an observational education programme.

Methods

In the present study, we retrospectively evaluated our first 62 C‐TBNA procedures at Erciyes University between May 2012 and December 2012 after an observational education programme. The first 31 patients were defined as group A, and the second 31 patients as group B.

Results

One hundred and seven lymph nodes were sampled in 62 patients by C‐TBNA. Adequate lymph node samples were obtained in 52 of the 62 patients (83.8%). In these 52 patients, two patients had a diagnosis of ‘suspicious of malignancy’ by C‐TBNA, and these patients were excluded from the analysis. In the remaining 50 cases who had adequate results, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and diagnostic accuracy per patient were 80.6%, 92.9%, 96.7%, 65.0% and 84.0%, respectively. The diagnostic accuracy rates of C‐TBNA for Group A and B were 72.0% (18/25) and 96.0% (24/25), and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

C‐TBNA is a useful diagnostic procedure for sampling intrathoracic lymphadenopathies and masses that are adjacent to the bronchial system. An observational education programme is helpful for learning C‐TBNA. The diagnostic yield improves in time, and approximately 30 procedures may be sufficient to achieve successful results.
Maspin expression in the invasive margin of primary melanomas may reflect an aggressive tumor phenotype
Authors: Pföhler Claudia , Knöpflen Tobias , Körner Rebecca , Vogt Thomas , Rösch Alexander , Müller Cornelia S.L.
Published: July 2013

Background

The role of maspin has been discussed controversially in different tumors. In the majority of malignant tumors, maspin seems to act as a tumor suppressor. However, data about maspin expression as well as its function in melanoma are very inconsistent.

Objective

To investigate the expression of maspin in melanomas and to correlate the intensity of maspin staining with prognostic parameters of the tumor and with progression‐free and overall survival.

Patients and Methods

Primary melanomas from 47 patients were investigated for maspin expression using immunohistochemistry.

Results

Maspin was heterogeneously expressed predominantly in the cytoplasm of melanoma cells. Maspin staining intensity in the invasive part of the tumor correlated with parameters of prognosis such as Clark level (p  =  0.05), tumor thickness (p  =  0.002) and stage of disease (p  =  0.023). Maspin staining intensity in the invasive front of the tumor significantly correlated with death from disease (p  =  0.007) and shortened overall survival (p  =  0.007).

Conclusions

In accordance with data concerning maspin expression in colorectal cancers, the expression of this protein in the invasive front of primary melanomas seems to correlate with local infiltration and tumor aggressiveness. Strong maspin expression in the invasive margin of primary melanomas therefore might reflect an aggressive tumor phenotype.
Species‐based risk assessments for biological invasions: advances and challenges
Authors: Kumschick Sabrina , Richardson David M.
Published: July 2013

Aim

An increasingly important component of invasive species management involves the formal assessment of risks associated with particular species becoming invasive and causing impact. We evaluated recent developments in risk assessment (RA) for alien species, with special emphasis on species‐based pre‐border assessments for intentional introductions. Our aim was to identify important advances and key challenges.

Location

Global.

Methods

A literature review was done to determine which approaches have been developed and fine‐tuned over the last two decades, which of these have worked best and which are most widely used. We identified priorities for improving our ability to assess risks.

Results

The review is divided into sections on various types and foci of RAs: invasion stage, taxon, ecosystem, assessment method and impact type. RAs for plants are the most advanced, with the Australian Weed Risk Assessment (A‐WRA) being the most widely applied and tested protocol. Based on the history of the A‐WRA, we highlight advances that have been made in assessing risk of alien species for pre‐border control and identify remaining challenges.

Main conclusions

Currently available RAs have proven to be cost‐effective, but there is room for substantial improvement. Further work is needed to separate likelihood and consequence more explicitly, and provide better and more objective means for assessing risks of impact. Types and levels of uncertainty need to be more effectively incorporated. Advanced RA protocols are needed for taxa other than plants and vertebrates. The latest insights from research in invasion ecology need to be incorporated, and advances in other fields must also be taken into account.
Adaptive egg size plasticity for larval competition and its limits in the seed beetleCallosobruchus chinensis
Authors: Yanagi Shin‐ichi , Saeki Yoriko , Tuda Midori
Published: July 2013

Life‐history theory predicts that females who experienced stressful conditions, such as larval competition or malnutrition, should increase their investment in individual offspring to increase offspring fitness (the adaptive parental hypothesis). In contrast, it has been shown that when females were reared under stressful conditions, they become smaller, which consequently decreases egg size (the parental stress hypothesis). To test whether females adjust their egg volume depending on larval competition, independent of maternal body mass constraint, we used a pest species of stored adzuki beans,Callosobruchus chinensis(L.) (Coleoptera:Chrysomelidae:Bruchinae). The eggs of females reared with competitors were smaller than those of females reared alone, supporting the parental stress hypothesis; however, correcting for female body size, females reared with competitors produced larger eggs than those reared in the absence of competition, supporting the adaptive parental hypothesis, as predicted. The phenotypic plasticity in females' investment in each offspring in stressful environments counteracts the constraint of body size on egg size.
Hymenoscyphus pseudoalbidus and Hymenoscyphus albidus: viridiol concentration and virulence do not correlate
Authors: Junker C. , Mandey F. , Pais A. , Ebel R. , Schulz B.
Published: July 2013

Hymenoscyphus pseudoalbidus is the causal agent of ash dieback, a disease that is presently endangering Fraxinus spp. throughout most of Europe. The phytotoxin, viridiol, was previously isolated from culture extracts of H. pseudoalbidus and found to be toxic to leaves of F. excelsior. Thus, we were interested in learning to what extent viridiol is responsible for pathogenicity of H. pseudoalbidus and investigated this using twelve isolates of H. pseudoalbidus. We also included five isolates of the closely related avirulent species, Hymenoscyphus albidus, in our studies. Some, but not all, isolates of H. pseudoalbidus and H. albidus produced measurable quantities of viridiol in culture. Three tests were used to determine to what extent viridiol concentration correlates with virulence: culture extracts were tested for activity in leaf segment tests and for inhibition of germination of seedlings of Fraxinus excelsior; virulence of the isolates was tested following infection of axenically cultured ash seedlings. Activity of the culture extracts varied, as did virulence of the isolates following inoculation into seedlings. No correlations were found between viridiol concentration and activities of culture extracts in leaf segment tests or in the germination test, nor between viridiol concentration and disease symptoms when inoculated into seedlings. However, activities of culture extracts in leaf segment and in the germination test correlated, as did the results of each of these tests with virulence in the infection experiment. Apparently, as yet unidentified factors other than the concentration of viridiol play important roles in the virulence of H. pseudoalbidus.
Nutrient loading associated with agriculture land use dampens the importance of consumer‐mediated niche construction
Authors: Spooner Daniel E. , Frost Paul C. , Hillebrand Helmut , Arts Michael T. , Puckrin Olivia , Xenopoulos Marguerite A.
Published: July 2013

The linkages between biological communities and ecosystem function remain poorly understood along gradients of human‐induced stressors. We examined how resource provisioning (nutrient recycling), mediated by native freshwater mussels, influences the structure and function of benthic communities by combining observational data and a field experiment. We compared the following: (1) elemental and community composition (algal pigments and macroinvertebates) on live mussel shells and on nearby rocks across a gradient of catchment agriculture and (2) experimental colonisation of benthic communities on live vs. sham shells controlling for initial community composition and colonisation duration. We show that in near pristine systems, nutrient heterogeneity mediated by mussels relates to greater biodiversity of communities, which supports the notion that resource heterogeneity can foster biological diversity. However, with increased nutrients from the catchment, the relevance of mussel‐provisioned nutrients was nearly eliminated. While species can persist in disturbed systems, their functional relevance may be diminished or lost.
A practical guide to measuring local adaptation
Authors: Blanquart François , Kaltz Oliver , Nuismer Scott L. , Gandon Sylvain
Published: July 2013

Patterns of local adaptation are expected to emerge when selection is spatially heterogeneous and sufficiently strong relative to the action of other evolutionary forces. The observation of local adaptation thus provides important insight into evolutionary processes and the adaptive divergence of populations. The detection of local adaptation, however, suffers from several conceptual, statistical and methodological issues. Here, we provide practical recommendations regarding (1) the definition of local adaptation, (2) the analysis of transplant experiments and (3) the optimisation of the experimental design of local adaptation studies. Together, these recommendations provide a unified approach for measuring local adaptation and understanding the adaptive divergence of populations in a wide range of biological systems.
White blood cell count is an independent predictor of outcomes after acute ischaemic stroke
Authors: Furlan J. C. , Vergouwen M. D. I. , Fang J. , Silver F. L.
Published: July 2013

Background and purpose

In patients with ischaemic stroke, elevated white blood cell count (WBC) has been associated with stroke severity on admission and poor functional outcome. However, previous studies did not control for confounding factors. We hypothesized that higher WBC is an independent predictor of stroke severity, greater degree of disability and 30‐day mortality after acute ischaemic stroke.

Methods

Data from the Registry of the Canadian Stroke Network on consecutive patients with acute ischaemic stroke admitted between July 2003 and March 2008 were used. Patients were divided into groups as follows: low WBC (0.1–4 × 10−9/l), normal WBC (4.1–10 × 10−9/l) and high WBC (10.1–40 × 10−9/l). Primary outcome measures were the frequency of moderate/severe strokes on admission (Canadian Neurological Scale ≤ 8), greater degree of disability at discharge (modified Rankin score 3–6) and 30‐day mortality. Regression analyses were performed adjusting for confounders.

Results

In total, 8829 patients were included. After adjustment for major potential confounders, every 1 × 10−9/l increase in WBC was associated with stroke severity on admission [odds ratio (OR) 1.09; 95%CI 1.07–1.10; P < 0.0001), disability at discharge (OR 1.04; 95%CI 1.02–1.06; P = 0.0005) and 30‐day mortality (hazard ratio 1.07; 95%CI 1.05–1.08; P < 0.0001). The Kaplan–Meier curves indicate that elevated WBC is associated with higher mortality after acute ischaemic stroke (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

In patients with acute ischaemic stroke, higher WBC on admission is an independent predictor of stroke severity on admission, greater degree of disability at discharge and 30‐day mortality. These results reinforce the need for further studies focused on immunomodulation therapy targeting inflammatory response following acute ischaemic stroke.
Alliance and Group Cohesion in Relationship Education
Authors: Owen Jesse , Antle Becky , Barbee Anita
Published: July 2013

Relationship education programs have been shown as an effective way to increase relationship functioning. There is less known about how process factors, such as alliance with the leader or group dynamics, affect outcomes in these interventions. We examined group cohesion and alliance with the leader in a relationship education program tailored for individuals. Specifically, we examined whether participants' ratings (n = 126) of the group cohesion and alliance with the leader were associated with changes in relationship adjustment, relationship confidence, and communication quality from pre‐ to postintervention. The results demonstrated that participants' perceptions of the cohesion among the members in their relationship education group, but not the leader–participant alliance, made a significant contribution to the changes in participants' relationship functioning. These results suggest that the group dynamics among the members in the group are important ingredients in relationship education. Implications for relationship programs are provided.
On the effect of the Kasatoshi volcano on the large return of sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) to the Fraser River in 2010
Authors: Parsons Tim , Whitney Frank
Published: July 2013

The hypothesis on the beneficial effect of volcanic ash on sockeye salmon (Oncorhyncus nerka) survival, advanced in an earlier paper (Parsons and Whitney, 2012), is discussed further in the light of a response on this subject by McKinnell (Fish. Oceanogr., 22, 2013, 337–344). We elaborate on a number of points which challenge our original hypothesis.
Population‐level thermal performance of a cold‐water ectotherm is linked to ontogeny and local environmental heterogeneity
Authors: Hossack Blake R. , Lowe Winsor H. , Webb Molly A. H. , Talbott Mariah J. , Kappenman Kevin M. , Corn Paul Stephen
Published: July 2013

Negative effects of global warming are predicted to be most severe for species that occupy a narrow range of temperatures, have limited dispersal abilities or have long generation times. These are characteristics typical of many species that occupy small, cold streams.

Habitat use, vulnerabilities and mechanisms for coping with local conditions can differ among populations and ontogenetically within populations, potentially affecting species‐level responses to climate change. However, we still have little knowledge of mean thermal performance for many vertebrates, let alone variation in performance among populations. Assessment of these sources of variation in thermal performance is critical for projecting the effects of climate change on species and for identifying management strategies to ameliorate its effects.

To gauge how populations of the Rocky Mountain tailed frog (Ascaphus montanus) might respond to long‐term effects of climate change, we measured the ability of tadpoles from six populations in Glacier National Park (Montana, U.S.A.) to acclimate to a range of temperatures. We compared survival among populations according to tadpole age (1 year or 2 years) and according to the mean and variance of late‐summer temperatures in natal streams.

The ability of tadpoles to acclimate to warm temperatures increased with age and with variance in late‐summer temperature of natal streams. Moreover, performance differed among populations from the same catchment.

Our experiments with a cold‐water species show that population‐level performance varies across small geographic scales and is linked to local environmental heterogeneity. This variation could influence the rate and mode of species‐level responses to climate change, both by facilitating local persistence in the face of changes in thermal conditions and by providing thermally tolerant colonists to neighbouring populations.
Plant community structure determines primary productivity in shallow, eutrophic lakes
Authors: Brothers Soren M. , Hilt Sabine , Meyer Stephanie , Köhler Jan
Published: July 2013

Regime shifts are commonly associated with the loss of submerged macrophytes in shallow lakes; yet, the effects of this on whole‐lake primary productivity remain poorly understood. This study compares the annual gross primary production (GPP) of two shallow, eutrophic lakes with different plant community structures but similar nutrient concentrations.

Daily GPP rates were substantially higher in the lake containing submerged macrophytes (586 ± 23 g C m−2 year−1) than in the lake featuring only phytoplankton and periphyton (408 ± 23 g C m−2 year−1; P < 0.0001). Comparing lake‐centre diel oxygen curves to compartmental estimates of GPP confirmed that single‐site oxygen curves may provide unreliable estimates of whole‐lake GPP. The discrepancy between approaches was greatest in the macrophyte‐dominated lake during the summer, with a high proportion of GPP occurring in the littoral zone.

Our empirical results were used to construct a simple conceptual model relating GPP to nutrient availability for these alternative ecological regimes. This model predicted that lakes featuring submerged macrophytes may commonly support higher rates of GPP than phytoplankton‐dominated lakes, but only within a moderate range of nutrient availability (total phosphorus ranging from 30 to 100 μg L−1) and with mean lake depths shallower than 3 or 4 m.

We conclude that shallow lakes with a submerged macrophyte–epiphyton complex may frequently support a higher annual primary production than comparable lakes that contain only phytoplankton and periphyton. We thus suggest that a regime shift involving the loss of submerged macrophytes may decrease the primary productivity of many lakes, with potential consequences for the entire food webs of these ecosystems.
An International Survey of Urban Sprawl Case Studies
Authors: Stomp Annette
Published: July 2013

Urban sprawl is a growth pattern causing much interest and concern and, in consequence, has been a topic of growing interest to a wide body of researchers from many different disciplinary backgrounds. The past 15 years has seen a veritable flourish of intensive empirical case studies devoted to various aspects of this phenomenon and coming from an increasing variety of countries. In an effort to understand the latest currents in empirical research on urban sprawl, the author conducted a thorough review of case studies since 1996, seeking to highlight new findings among the various themes addressed in the research. They revealed a great number of case studies on urban sprawl emerging from China, many case studies devoted to measuring urban sprawl, as well as throwing into question the widely held assumption that sprawl is always driven by population and economic growth.