bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Public–Private Partnerships in Facilitating Cross‐Border Logistics: A Case Study at the U.S./Canadian Border
Authors: Davis Donna F. , Friske Wesley
Published: December 2013

Private enterprise carries out the complex operations of cross‐border logistics that are the lifeblood of global supply chains. Yet, the efficiency of these activities depends on government agencies that provide the logistics infrastructure for global trade. Thus, public–private partnerships (PPPs) play an important role in facilitating improvements in cross‐border logistics. While private enterprise and the public sector are key stakeholders in the quality of cross‐border logistics, research that examines PPPs in logistics management is relatively sparse. To address this gap, the current study aims to develop empirically based theoretical insights into the nature and role of PPPs in the context of cross‐border logistics. The study employs a grounded‐theory analysis of case study data collected at the U.S./Canadian border. Findings show that private enterprise collaborative capability and public interagency cooperation determine the performance of PPPs which, in turn, influence the quality of cross‐border logistics.
Recognizing and Resolving Social Dilemmas in Supply Chain Public–Private Partnerships
Authors: McCarter Matthew W. , Fudge Kamal Darcy
Published: December 2013

The public–private partnership (PPP) is a popular strategy for creating global sustainable value. However, many PPPs struggle to realize their value‐added potential.Why do some public–private partnerships succeed while others fail, and how may those struggling succeed?Combining supply‐chain integration and social dilemma perspectives into the conversation of PPPs, we examine the dynamics and psychology of cooperation necessary for PPP success. Addressing the first part of our research question, we recognize three social dilemmas that can manifest while managing PPP supply chains: a give‐some dilemma, a take‐some dilemma, and a give‐or‐take‐some dilemma. To address the second part of our research question, we present a taxonomy of strategies resolving these PPP social dilemmas through the enhancement of trust, self‐efficacy, and social responsibility. We discuss implications for PPPs, supply‐chain, and social dilemma literatures.
Prediction of periodontal disease: modelling and validation in different general German populations
Authors: Zhan Yiqiang , Holtfreter Birte , Meisel Peter , Hoffmann Thomas , Micheelis Wolfgang , Dietrich Thomas , Kocher Thomas
Published: December 2013

Aim

To develop models for periodontitis using self‐reported questions and to validate them externally.

Methods

The Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP‐0) was used for model development. Periodontitis was defined according to the definitions of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention‐American Academy of Periodontology, the 5th European Workshop in Periodontology, and Dietrich et al. (≥2 teeth with inter‐proximal clinical attachment loss of ≥4 mm and 6 mm as moderate and severe periodontitis) respectively. These models were validated in SHIP‐Trend and the Fourth German Oral Health Study (DMS IV).

Results

Final models included age, gender, education, smoking, bleeding on brushing and self‐reported presence of mobile teeth. Concordance‐statistics (C‐statistics) of the final models from SHIP‐0 were 0.84, 0.82 and 0.85 for the three definitions respectively. Validation in SHIP‐Trend revealed C‐statistics of 0.82, 0.81 and 0.82 respectively. As bleeding on brushing and presence of mobile teeth were unavailable in DMS IV, reduced models were developed. C‐statistics of reduced models were 0.82, 0.81 and 0.83 respectively. Validation in DMS IV revealed C‐statistics of 0.72, 0.78 and 0.72 for the three definitions respectively. All p values of the goodness‐of‐fit tests were >0.05.

Conclusions

The models yielded a moderate usefulness for prediction of periodontitis.
All eggs are made equal: meta‐analysis of egg sexual size dimorphism in birds
Authors: Rutkowska J. , Dubiec A. , Nakagawa S.
Published: December 2013

Sex‐biased resource allocation in avian eggs has gained increasing interest. The adaptive explanations of such allocation are often related to life‐history strategies of the studied species. In some species, egg sexual size dimorphism (SSD) was suggested to promote future size differences between adults of each sex. In other species, egg SSD was invoked as an adaptive means by which a mother balances sex‐specific nestling mortality. According to the first scenario, mothers should produce bigger eggs for the bigger sex, thus across species, adult SSD should be a significant positive predictor of egg SSD. Under the second scenario, mothers should produce bigger eggs for the smaller sex. If different species use contrasting strategies, then a universal expectation is that there should be a significant relationship between the magnitude of adult SSD and the magnitude of egg SSD, irrespective of the direction of those differences. Our aim was to examine whether the direction of egg SSD is predicted by the direction of adult SSD or whether degree of egg SSD is related to degree of adult SSD. To answer that question, we performed meta‐analysis of 63 studies, which included information on egg SSD of 65 effect sizes from 51 avian species. We found that across species, adult SSD does not predict egg SSD. More importantly, the observed variation in effect sizes in our data set was largely explained by sampling error (variance). Although adult SSD is undoubtedly a prominent feature of birds, there is little evidence for egg SSD across avian species.
British Dietetic Association evidence‐based guidelines for the dietary management of Crohn's disease in adults
Authors: Lee J. , Allen R. , Ashley S. , Becker S. , Cummins P. , Gbadamosi A. , Gooding O. , Huston J. , Le Couteur J. , O'Sullivan D. , Wilson S. , Lomer M. C. E.
Published: December 2013

Background

Crohn's disease is a debilitating chronic inflammatory bowel disease. Appropriate use of diet and nutritional therapy is integral to the overall management strategy of Crohn's disease. The aim was to develop evidence‐based guidelines on the dietary management of Crohn's disease in adults.

Methods

Questions relating to the dietary management of Crohn's disease were developed. These included the roles of enteral nutrition to induce remission, food re‐introduction diets to structure food re‐introduction and maintain remission, and dietary management of stricturing disease, as well as whether probiotics or prebiotics induce or maintain remission. A comprehensive literature search was conducted and relevant studies from January 1985 to November 2009 were identified using the electronic database search engines CINAHL, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Scopus and Web of Science. Evidence statements, recommendations, practical considerations and research recommendations were developed.

Results

Fifteen research papers were critically appraised and the evidence formed the basis of these guidelines. Although corticosteroids appear to be more effective, enteral nutrition (elemental or non‐elemental) can be offered as an alternative option to induce disease remission. After a course of enteral nutrition, food re‐introduction diets may be useful to structure food re‐introduction and help maintain disease remission. Dietary fibre is contraindicated in the presence of strictures as a result of the risk of mechanical obstruction. The use of probiotics and prebiotics is not currently supported.

Conclusions

As an alternative to corticosteroids, evidence supports enteral nutrition to induce disease remission. Food re‐introduction diets provide structure to food re‐introduction and help maintain disease remission. These guidelines aim to reduce variation in clinical practice.
Impact of a customised dietary intervention on antioxidant status, dietary intakes and periodontal indices in patients with adult periodontitis
Authors: Zare Javid A. , Seal C. J. , Heasman P. , Moynihan P. J.
Published: December 2013

Background

Dietary modification may be important in the prevention and control of chronic adult periodontitis. The role of promoting an adequate consumption of fruits, vegetables and whole grains in chronic periodontitis has not been thoroughly investigated. The main aim of this dietary intervention study was to assess the influence of a customised dietary intervention (aiming to increase the consumption of fruits, vegetables and whole grains) on antioxidant status in adults with chronic periodontitis.

Methods

Fifty‐one participants, aged 30–65 years, were recruited from a UK Dental Hospital and randomly allocated to an intervention or control group. Both groups received normal clinical treatment but customised dietary advice was delivered to the intervention group by a community nutrition assistant. Dietary intakes, anthropometric parameters and biochemical indices with respect to blood and saliva and periodontal indices were evaluated at baseline, as well as at 3 and 6 months post‐dietary intervention.

Results

At 3 and 6 months post‐intervention, the intervention group showed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in plasma total antioxidant capacity measured by Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assay compared to the control group. At 3 and 6 months after dietary intervention, the intervention group had significantly higher intakes of fruits and vegetables compared to the control group. The intake of whole grain was significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group, 6 months post‐intervention. No significant differences were observed with respect to periodontal indices between groups.

Conclusions

It is suggested that dietary advice may help to improve dietary habits and, consequently, the antioxidant status of patients with chronic periodontitis. However, the impact of such intervention on periodontal indices needs further investigation.
Coronary heart disease mortality in relation to dietary, lifestyle and biochemical risk factors in the countries of the Seven Countries Study: a secondary dataset analysis
Authors: Papandreou C. , Tuomilehto H.
Published: December 2013

Background

The present study explored coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality rates in 2011 in countries that participated in the Seven Countries Study (SCS) in relation to several dietary and anthropometric/biochemical risk factors. Special focus was given to Crete and the Ionian Islands.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of secondary analysis of databases using data from the World Health Organization, the Food and Agriculture Organization database and the Greek National Cadaster and Cartography Organization. Geographically weighted regression was applied to identify the high‐risk regions in relation to the significant factors.

Results

Crete, the Ionian Islands and Japan had the lowest mortality rates (28.9, 30.1 and 31.2 deaths/100 000 people, respectively) in contrast to Serbia/Montenegro that presented the highest rates (105.1 deaths/100 000 people). Diet, physical inactivity and hypertension were found to be the most significant factors in the model (P < 0.05). Regions of no risk were Crete, Ionian Islands and Japan (exponent B = 0.65; 95% confidence interval = 0.293–0.942; P < 0.001), whereas Serbia/Montenegro and Finland were identified as high‐risk areas with a 2.97‐fold higher probability for CHD mortality (95% confidence interval = 1.736–4.028; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Observed patterns of CHD mortality and related factors may be helpful for appropriate management by health planners when aiming to reduce its prevalence, particularly in high‐risk areas.
Water intakes and dietary sources of a nationally representative sample of Irish adults
Authors: O'Connor L. , Walton J. , Flynn A.
Published: December 2013

Background

Despite evidence that even mild dehydration is associated with various morbidities, water intake estimates in free‐living populations are lacking. The present study aimed to estimate water intakes and dietary sources in a nationally representative sample of the Irish adult population.

Methods

A 4‐day semi‐weighed food record was used to collect dietary intake data from 1500 free‐living adults aged 18–90 years in the Irish National Adult Nutrition Survey (NANS) (2008–2010) from which water intake was estimated. To enable fluid intake estimation, additional questions on how water and milk were consumed were incorporated. Total water intake was calculated as drinking water plus water from other beverages and food moisture.

Results

The mean (SD) daily total water intake for Irish adults was 2.31 (0.92) L day–1 [males 2.52 (1.00) L day–1; females 2.09 (0.79) L day–1]. Intakes were lowest in elderly adults, as well as in those with less education, a lower social class, less energy expenditure and a higher body mass index and body fat percentage. In total, 67% of water came from beverages and 33% came from food moisture. Alcoholic beverages and teas individually contributed to total water intake in amounts similar to the drinking water contribution.

Conclusions

These data may be used as a foundation for further research in the area of the effect of under consumption of water on health outcomes to guide public health messages regarding adequate water intakes.
Attenuated Benzodiazepine‐Sensitive Tonic GABAA Currents of Supraoptic Magnocellular Neuroendocrine Cells in 24‐h Water‐Deprived Rats
Authors: Pandit S. , Song J. G. , Kim Y. J. , Jeong J. A. , Jo J. Y. , Lee G. S. , Kim H.‐W. , Jeon B. H. , Lee J. U. , Park J. B.
Published: December 2013

In supraoptic nucleus (SON) magnocellular neurosecretory cells (MNCs), γ‐GABA, via activation of GABAA receptors (GABAARs), mediates persistent tonic inhibitory currents (Itonic), as well as conventional inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs, Iphasic). In the present study, we examined the functional significance of Itonic in SON MNCs challenged by 24‐h water deprivation (24WD). Although the main characteristics of spontaneous IPSCs were similar in 24WD compared to euhydrated (EU) rats, Itonic, measured by bicuculline (BIC)‐induced Iholding shifts, was significantly smaller in 24WD compared to EU rats (P < 0.05). Propofol and diazepam prolonged IPSC decay time to a similar extent in both groups but induced less Itonic in 24WD compared to EU rats, suggesting a selective decrease in GABAA receptors mediating Itonic over Iphasic in 24WD rats. THIP (4,5,6,7‐tetrahydroisoxazolo[5,4‐c]pyridin‐3‐ol), a preferential δ subunit agonist, and L‐655,708, a GABAA receptor α5 subunit selective imidazobenzodiazepine, caused a significantly smaller inward and outward shift in Iholding, respectively, in 24WD compared to EU rats (P < 0.05 in both cases), suggesting an overall decrease in the α5 subunit‐containing GABAARs and the δ subunit‐containing receptors mediating Itonic in 24WD animals. Consistent with a decrease in 24WD Itonic, bath application of GABA induced significantly less inhibition of the neuronal firing activity in 24WD compared to EU SON MNCs (P < 0.05). Taken together, the results of the present study indicate a selective decrease in GABAARs functions mediating Itonic as opposed to those mediating Iphasic in SON MNCs, demonstrating the functional significance of Itonic with respect to increasing neuronal excitability and hormone secretion in 24WD rats.
A roller coaster of emotions and sense – coping with the perceived psychosocial consequences of a false‐positive screening mammography
Authors: Bolejko Anetta , Zackrisson Sophia , Hagell Peter , Wann‐Hansson Christine
Published: December 2013

Aims and objectives

To explore coping with the perceived psychosocial consequences of a false‐positive screening mammography.

Background

Mammographic screening has been found effective to decrease breast cancer (BC) mortality, yet there are adverse effects. Psychosocial consequences of false‐positive mammographic screening have mainly been investigated from a population‐based perspective. A call for qualitative studies to further explore these consequences has thus been postulated. To date, qualitative studies have elucidated women's experiences following their recall breast examinations, but their coping with perceived psychosocial consequences of a false‐positive screening mammography has not yet been explored.

Design

An explorative qualitative study.

Methods

Face‐to‐face interviews were held with a purposive heterogeneous sample of 13 Swedish‐speaking women with a false‐positive screening mammography. The transcripts were analysed by the use of an inductive content analysis.

Results

Coping with the perceived psychosocial consequences of a false‐positive screening mammography implied a roller coaster of emotion and sense. Women described how they imagined the worst and were in a state of uncertainty feeling threatened by a fatal disease. Conversely, they felt protected, surrounded by their families and being professionally taken care of, which together with perceived sisterhood and self‐empowerment evoked strength and hope. Being aware of family responsibility became a crucial matter. Experiencing false‐positive screening raised thoughts of thankfulness and reappraisal of life, although an ounce of BC anxiety remained. Consequently, gained awareness about BC screening and values in life surfaced.

Conclusions

Experiencing a false‐positive screening mammography triggers agonising experiences evoking a variety of coping strategies. Provision of screening raises the issue of responsibility for an impact on psychosocial well‐being among healthy women.

Relevance to clinical practice

Gained knowledge might provide a basis for interventions to prevent psychosocial consequences of false‐positive mammographic screening and provide support for women with a potentially compromised ability to overcome such consequences.
Caring for the mental illness patient in emergency departments – an exploration of the issues from a healthcare provider perspective
Authors: Innes Kelli , Morphet Julia , O'Brien Anthony P , Munro Ian
Published: December 2013

Aims and objectives

To identify issues, from the emergency department clinicians' viewpoint, with the management of patients presenting to the emergency department with a mental illness.

Background

Despite the introduction of several statewide and national initiatives, barriers remain affecting the care and management of consumers presenting with an mental illness to the emergency department. Improving the responsiveness of mental health services, including the provision of more efficient emergency responses for people in crisis, is a key goal. To achieve responsive mental health services in emergency departments, services are required to work together to ensure appropriate referrals between mainstream services and to those services developed to meet the unique needs of specific population groups.

Design

A mixed method approach using surveys and focus groups.

Methods

Data were collected from patients with mental illness and their next of kin/carers, as well as staff working within the emergency department and the mental health services of the healthcare network.

Results

The study found that there were inconsistencies and deficits in the educational preparation of emergency department staff to manage consumers presenting with mental illness. Further, the inadequate physical environment of the emergency department contributed to difficulties in assessing and managing this group of patients.

Conclusions

Staff members working within mental health services and the emergency department summarised the key improvement areas as the need for electronic case notes, improvements to the emergency department environment, mental health training, implementation of a referral service and increasing the number of staff.

Relevance to clinical practice

Although initiatives have been implemented, there needs to be a greater focus on educating the staff in emergency departments in relation to the policies and strategies which aim to improve the care and management of patients presenting with a mental health problem.
Salivary cortisol and psychological factors in women with chronic and acute oro‐facial pain
Authors: Jasim H. , Louca S. , Christidis N. , Ernberg M.
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study was to compare the salivary cortisol level, pain intensity and psychological factors between patients with chronic and acute oro‐facial pain (OP) and pain‐free subjects. Twenty‐seven females with chronic OP (a diagnosis of myofascial pain according to the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders with at least 6 months duration), 24 females with acute OP (<10 days duration) and 27 pain‐free females participated. Morning saliva was collected from all participants for analyses of the cortisol level. The pain intensity was assessed on a 0–10 numeric rating scale. The participants were evaluated by the Symptom Checklist 90‐revised for levels of depression and somatisation, and the Perceived Stress Scale. The cortisol levels among the three patient groups were similar with no significant group differences. The median (interquartile range) current pain level did not differ between chronic and acute OP and was, respectively, 5 (4) and 5 (3). Patients with chronic OP showed significantly higher scores for depression, somatisation and perceived stress compared with patients with acute OP (Ps < 0·001), but there were no significant differences between acute OP and controls. To conclude, there were no differences in cortisol level between groups, despite significant higher levels of depression, somatisation and perceived stress in patients with chronic OP. This shows that psychological distress has a more important role in chronic than in acute OP. However, the relation between pain, adreno‐cortical activity and psychological distress is complex and warrants further investigation.
Melatonin prevents experimental preterm labor and increases offspring survival
Authors: Domínguez Rubio Ana P. , Sordelli Micaela S. , Salazar Ana I. , Aisemberg Julieta , Bariani María V. , Cella Maximiliano , Rosenstein Ruth E. , Franchi Ana M.
Published: December 2013

Preterm delivery is the leading cause of neonatal mortality and contributes to delayed physical and cognitive development in children. At present, there is no efficient therapy to prevent preterm labor. A large body of evidence suggests that intra‐amniotic infections may be a significant and potentially preventable cause of preterm birth. This work assessed the effect of melatonin in a murine model of inflammation‐associated preterm delivery which mimics central features of preterm infection in humans. For this purpose, preterm labor was induced in BALB/c mice by intraperitoneal injections of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at 10.00 hr (10 μg LPS) and 13.00 hr (20 μg LPS) on day 15 of pregnancy. On day 14 of pregnancy, a pellet of melatonin (25 mg) had been subcutaneously implanted into a group of animals. In the absence of melatonin, a 100% incidence of preterm birth was observed in LPS‐treated animals, and the fetuses showed widespread damage. By comparison, treatment with melatonin prevented preterm birth in 50% of the cases, and all pups from melatonin‐treated females were born alive and their body weight did not differ from control animals. Melatonin significantly prevented the LPS‐induced rises in uterine prostaglandin (PG) E2, PGF2α, and cyclooxygenase‐2 protein levels. In addition, melatonin prevented the LPS‐induced increase in uterine nitric oxide (NO) production, inducible NO synthase protein, and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNFα) levels. Collectively, our results suggest that melatonin could be a new therapeutic tool to prevent preterm labor and to increase offspring survival.
Age‐related changes in mitochondrial function of mouse colonic smooth muscle: beneficial effects of melatonin
Authors: Martin‐Cano Francisco E. , Camello‐Almaraz Cristina , Acuña‐Castroviejo Dario , Pozo Maria J. , Camello Pedro J.
Published: December 2013

Aging is a multifactorial process that involves biochemical, structural, and functional changes in mitochondria. The ability of melatonin to palliate the alterations induced by aging is based on its chronobiologic, antioxidant, and mitochondrial effects. There is little information about the effects of melatonin on the in situ mitochondrial network of aging cells and its physiological implications. We have studied the ability of melatonin to prevent the functional alterations of in situ mitochondria of smooth muscle cells and its impact on contractility. Mitochondrial membrane potential was recorded in isolated colonic smooth muscle cells from young mice (3 month old), aged mice (22–24‐month old), and aged mice treated with melatonin (starting at 14‐month age). Aging induced a partial mitochondrial depolarization in resting conditions and reduced the depolarizing response to cellular stimulation. Use of oligomycin indicated that aging enhanced the resting activity of the mitochondrial ATP synthase, whereas in young cells, the enzyme operated mainly in reverse mode. Melatonin treatment prevented all these changes. Aging reduced both spontaneous and stimulated contraction of colonic strips and shifted the metabolic dependence of contraction from mitochondria to glycolysis, as indicated the use of mitochondrial and glycolysis inhibitors. These functional alterations were also palliated by melatonin treatment. Aging effects were not related to a decrease in Ca2+ store mobilization, because this was enhanced in aged cells and restored by melatonin. In conclusion, melatonin prevents the age induced in situ mitochondrial potential alterations in smooth muscle cells and the associated changes in contractility and metabolism.
Melatonin treatment combined with treadmill exercise accelerates muscular adaptation through early inhibition of CHOP‐mediated autophagy in the gastrocnemius of rats with intra‐articular collagenase‐induced knee laxity
Authors: Hong Yunkyung , Kim Joo‐Heon , Jin Yunho , Lee Seunghoon , Park Kanghui , Lee Youngjeon , Chang Kyu‐Tae , Hong Yonggeun
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of melatonin intervention on gastrocnemius remodeling in rats with collagenase‐induced knee instability. Type VII collagenase was injected into the right knee to induce joint laxity with cartilage destruction. Melatonin (MT; 10 mg/kg) injection was performed twice daily subcutaneously, and treadmill exercise (Ex; 11 m/min) was conducted for 1 hr/day at a frequency of 5 days/wk for 4 wks. The gastrocnemius mass, which was reduced with collagenase injection only (Veh), was increased with collagenase injection with melatonin treatment with and without exercise in the early phase, and the mass in both limbs was significantly different in the Veh compared with the MT group. However, there was an increase in the relative muscle weight to body weight ratio in the Veh group at the advanced stage. Insulin‐like growth factor receptor (IGF‐IR) was downregulated in the Veh group, whereas IGF‐IR was upregulated in the MT and MT + Ex groups. Joint laxity induced enhancement of autophagic proteolysis (LC3 II) in the muscle, which was recovered to values similar to those in the normal control group (Con) compared with those in the MT and MT + Ex groups. Although intra‐articular collagenase increased the total C/EBP homology protein (CHOP) levels at 1 wk and decreased them at 4 wks in the Veh group, CHOP in the nucleus was upregulated continuously. Prolonged melatonin treatment with and without exercise intervention suppressed nuclear localization of ATF4 and CHOP with less activation of caspase‐3, at the advanced phase. Moreover, the interventions promoted the expression of myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms under the control of myogenin. Concomitant with a beneficial effect of melatonin with and without exercise, step length of the saline‐injected limb and the collagenase‐injected supporting side was maintained at values similar to those in control rats. Taken together, the findings demonstrate that melatonin with and without exercise accelerate remodeling of the gastrocnemius through inhibition of nuclear CHOP in rats with collagenase‐induced knee instability.
Acclimation conditions modify physiological response of the diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana to elevated CO2 concentrations in a nitrate‐limited chemostat
Authors: Hennon Gwenn M. M. , Quay Paul , Morales Rhonda L. , Swanson Lyndsey M. , Virginia Armbrust E.
Published: December 2013

Diatoms are responsible for a large proportion of global carbon fixation, with the possibility that they may fix more carbon under future levels of high CO2. To determine how increased CO2 concentrations impact the physiology of the diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana Hasle et Heimdal, nitrate‐limited chemostats were used to acclimate cells to a recent past (333 ± 6 μatm) and two projected future concentrations (476 ± 18 μatm, 816 ± 35 μatm) of CO2. Samples were harvested under steady‐state growth conditions after either an abrupt (15–16 generations) or a longer acclimation process (33–57 generations) to increased CO2 concentrations. The use of un‐bubbled chemostat cultures allowed us to calculate the uptake ratio of dissolved inorganic carbon relative to dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIC:DIN), which was strongly correlated with fCO2 in the shorter acclimations but not in the longer acclimations. Both CO2 treatment and acclimation time significantly affected the DIC:DIN uptake ratio. Chlorophyll a per cell decreased under elevated CO2 and the rates of photosynthesis and respiration decreased significantly under higher levels of CO2. These results suggest that T. pseudonana shifts carbon and energy fluxes in response to high CO2 and that acclimation time has a strong effect on the physiological response.
Photosynthetic characteristics of two Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii strains differing in their toxicity
Authors: Pierangelini Mattia , Stojkovic Slobodanka , Orr Philip T. , Beardall John
Published: December 2013

We studied the growth and photosynthetic characteristics of a toxic (CS506) and a nontoxic strain (CS509) of the bloom‐forming cyanobacterium Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii grown under identical experimental conditions. When exposed to light‐saturating growth conditions (100 μmol photons · m−2 · s−1), values for maximal photosynthetic capacity (Pmax) and maximum quantum yield (Fv/Fm) indicated that both strains had an equal ability to process captured photons and deliver them to PSII reaction centers. However, CS506 grew faster than CS509. This was consistent with its higher light requirement for saturation of photosynthesis (Ik). Greater shade tolerance of CS509 was indicated by its higher ability to harvest light (α), lower photosynthetic light compensation point (Ic), and higher chlorophyll a to biovolume ratio. Strain‐specific differences were found in relation to non‐photochemical quenching, effective absorption cross‐sectional area of PSIIα‐centers (σPSIIα), and the antenna connectivity parameter of PSIIα (JconPSIIα). These findings highlighted differences in the transfer of excitation from phycobilisome/PSII to PSI, on the dependence on different pigments for light harvesting and on the functioning of the PSII reaction centers between the two strains. The results of this study showed that both performance and composition of the photosynthetic apparatus are different between these strains, though with only two strains examined we cannot attribute the performance of strain 506 to its ability to produce cylindrospermopsins. The emphasis on a strain‐specific light adaptation/acclimation is crucial to our understanding of how different light conditions (both quantity and quality) can trigger the occurrence of different C. raciborskii strains and control their competition and/or dominance in natural ecosystems.
Automatic scoring of sleep stages and cortical arousals using two electrodes on the forehead: validation in healthy adults
Authors: Popovic Djordje , Khoo Michael , Westbrook Philip
Published: December 2013

Accuracy and limitations of automatic scoring of sleep stages and electroencephalogram arousals from a single derivation (Fp1–Fp2) were studied in 29 healthy adults using a portable wireless polysomnographic recorder. All recordings were scored five times: twice by a referent scorer who viewed the standard polysomnographic montage and observed the American Academy of Sleep Medicine rules (referent scoring and blind rescoring); and once by the same scorer who viewed only the Fp1–Fp2 signal (alternative scoring), by another expert from the same institution, and by the algorithm. Automatic, alternative and independent expert scoring were compared with the referent scoring on an epoch‐by‐epoch basis. The algorithm's agreement with the reference (81.0%, Cohen's κ = 0.75) was comparable to the inter–rater agreement (83.3%, Cohen's κ = 0.78) or agreement between the referent scoring and manual scoring of the frontopolar derivation (80.7%, Cohen's κ = 0.75). Most misclassifications by the algorithm occurred during uneventful wake/sleep transitions, whereas cortical arousals, rapid eye movement and stable non‐rapid eye movement sleep were detected accurately. The algorithm yielded accurate estimates of total sleep time, sleep efficiency, sleep latency, arousal indices and times spent in different stages. The findings affirm the utility of automatic scoring of stages and arousals from a single frontopolar derivation as a method for assessment of sleep architecture in healthy adults.
Insomnia symptoms and subsequent cardiovascular medication: a register‐linked follow‐up study among middle‐aged employees
Authors: Haaramo Peija , Rahkonen Ossi , Hublin Christer , Laatikainen Tiina , Lahelma Eero , Lallukka Tea
Published: December 2013

Sleep disturbances have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease outcomes. The associations of insomnia with hypertension and dyslipidaemia, the main modifiable cardiovascular risk factors, are less studied. We especially lack understanding on the longitudinal effects of insomnia on dyslipidaemia. We aimed to examine the associations of insomnia symptoms with subsequent prescribed medication for hypertension and dyslipidaemia using objective register‐based follow‐up data. Baseline questionnaire surveys among 40–60‐year‐old employees of the City of Helsinki, Finland, were conducted in 2000–2002 (n = 6477, response rate 67%, 78% women) and linked to a national register on prescribed reimbursed medication 5–7 years prior to and 5 years after baseline. Associations between the frequency of insomnia symptoms (difficulties in initiating and maintaining sleep, non‐restorative sleep) and hypertension and dyslipidaemia medication during the follow‐up were analysed using logistic regression analysis (odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals). Analyses were adjusted for pre‐baseline medication, sociodemographic and work‐related factors, health behaviours, mental health, and diabetes. Frequent insomnia symptoms were reported by 20%. During the 5‐year follow‐up, 32% had hypertension medication and 15% dyslipidaemia medication. Adjusting for age, gender and pre‐baseline medication, frequent insomnia symptoms were associated with hypertension medication (odds ratio 1.57, 95% confidence interval 1.23–2.00) and dyslipidaemia medication (odds ratio 1.59, 95% confidence interval 1.19–2.12). Occasional insomnia symptoms were also associated with cardiovascular medication, though less strongly. Further adjustments had negligible effects. To conclude, insomnia should be taken into account in the prevention and management of cardiovascular disease and related risk factors.
ASYMPTOTIC INFERENCES FOR AN AR(1) MODEL WITH A CHANGE POINT: STATIONARY AND NEARLY NON‐STATIONARY CASES
Authors: Pang Tianxiao , Zhang Danna , Chong Terence Tai‐Leung
Published: December 2013

This article examines the asymptotic inference for AR(1) models with a possible structural break in the AR parameter β near the unity at an unknown time k0. Consider the model yt = β1yt − 1I{t ≤ k0} + β2yt − 1I{t > k0} + ϵt, t = 1,2, … ,T, where I{ ⋅ } denotes the indicator function. We examine two cases: case I | β1 | < 1,β2 = β2T = 1 − c ∕ T; and case II β1 = β1T = 1 − c ∕ T, | β2 | < 1, where c is a fixed constant, and {ϵt,t ≥ 1} is a sequence of i.i.d. random variables, which are in the domain of attraction of the normal law with zero means and possibly infinite variances. We derive the limiting distributions of the least squares estimators of β1 and β2 and that of the break‐point estimator for shrinking break for the aforementioned cases. Monte Carlo simulations are conducted to demonstrate the finite‐sample properties of the estimators. Our theoretical results are supported by Monte Carlo simulations.
Cardiac and proinflammatory markers predict prognosis in cirrhosis
Authors: Wiese Signe , Mortensen Christian , Gøtze Jens P. , Christensen Erik , Andersen Ove , Bendtsen Flemming , Møller Søren
Published: December 2013

Background & Aims

Inflammation and cardiac dysfunction plays an important role in the development of complications leading to increased mortality in patients with cirrhosis. Novel cardiac markers such as prohormone of ANP (proANP), copeptin and high‐sensitivity troponin T (hs‐TnT) and proinflammatory markers including soluble urokinase‐type plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) and high‐sensitive C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) are related to these complications. We aimed to investigate if cardiac and proinflammatory markers are related to severity of liver disease, cardiac and haemodynamic changes, and long‐term survival.

Methods

One hundred and ninety‐three stable cirrhotic patients (Child class: A = 46; B = 97; C = 50) had a full haemodynamic investigation performed with measurement of splanchnic and systemic haemodynamics and measurement of circulating levels of proBNP, proANP, copeptin, hs‐TnT, LBP, IL 6, IL 8, IP 10, VEGF, hs‐CRP and suPAR.

Results

Soluble urokinase‐type plasminogen activator receptor soluble urokinase‐type plasminogen activator receptor, hs‐CRP, and hs‐TnT were significantly different throughout the Child classes (P < 0.01; P < 0.01; P < 0.02). All markers except copeptin correlated with indicators of disease severity in cirrhosis; ProANP and suPAR correlated with hepatic venous pressure gradient (r = 0.24 and r = 0.34; P < 0.001) and systemic vascular resistance (r = −0.24 and r = −0.33; P < 0.001). Cardiac (proANP, hs‐TnT; P < 0.01) and proinflammatory (hs‐CRP, suPAR; P < 0.05) markers were associated with mortality in a univariate Cox analysis, however, the strongest predictors of mortality in a multivariate Cox analysis were hs‐TnT, ascites and hepatic venous pressure gradient (reg.coeff.: 0.34, P < 0.001; 0.16, P < 0.001; 0.06, P = 0.04).

Conclusion

Markers of cardiac dysfunction and inflammation are significantly associated with disease severity, degree of portal hypertension and survival in cirrhosis. In particular, hs‐TnT and suPAR seem to contain prognostic information.
Strengthening concept learning by repeated testing
Authors: Wiklund‐Hörnqvist Carola , Jonsson Bert , Nyberg Lars
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study was to examine whether repeated testing with feedback benefits learning compared to rereading of introductory psychology key‐concepts in an educational context. The testing effect was examined immediately after practice, after 18 days, and at a five‐week delay in a sample of undergraduate students (n = 83). The results revealed that repeated testing with feedback significantly enhanced learning compared to rereading at all delays, demonstrating that repeated retrieval enhances retention compared to repeated encoding in the short‐ and the long‐term. In addition, the effect of repeated testing was beneficial for students irrespectively of working memory capacity. It is argued that teaching methods involving repeated retrieval are important to consider by the educational system.
Influence of Wooden Board Strength Class on the Performance of Cross‐laminated Timber Plates Investigated by Means of Full‐field Deformation Measurements
Authors: Hochreiner G. , Füssl J. , Serrano E. , Eberhardsteiner J.
Published: December 2013

Although cross‐laminated timber (CLT) plates are increasingly used in high‐performance building structures, a tailored composition of them or, at least, a performance‐based classification scheme is not available. Especially, the influence of the quality of the ‘raw’ material (wooden boards) on the load carrying capacity of CLT elements is hardly investigated yet. For this reason, within this work, bending tests on 24 CLT plates consisting of wooden boards from three different strength classes have been carried out. The global mechanical response as well as the formation of failure mechanisms were investigated, including a full‐field deformation measurement system, which allowed for a qualitatively as well as quantitatively identification of board failure modes. Interestingly, no influence of the board strength class on the elastic limit load of the CLT plates was observed, but the situation was different for the load displacement history beyond the elastic regime, where basically, two different global failure mechanisms could be distinguished. The obtained knowledge about the ‘post‐elastic’ behaviour of CLT plates may serve as a basis for the optimisation of CLT products and the development or improvement of design concepts, respectively. Moreover, the obtained large ‘post‐elastic’ capacity reserve of CLT consisting of high quality boards could lead to a better utilisation of the raw material.
Myometrial physiology – time to translate?
Authors: Arrowsmith Sarah , Kendrick Annabelle , Hanley Jacqui‐Ann , Noble Karen , Wray Susan
Published: December 2013

New Findings

What is the topic of this review?

To provide an overview of the current understanding of myometrial contractility and give examples of where this has or is close to being applied clinically.

What advances does it highlight?

Examples of where myometrial science has been translated into clinical practice/patient benefit are discussed, as well as including suggestions of how it can be advanced.

In this short review, we discuss how recent insights into myometrial physiology may be taken forward and translated into much‐needed novel therapies for problems associated with labour. We consider excitation–contraction coupling in the myometrium and how this relates to our understanding of the changes that occur to produce myometrial contractions and successful labour. We then discuss how this information has already been used in the development of drugs to either stimulate or relax the myometrium, to address the needs of women with either slow (dystocic) labours or threatened preterm labours, respectively. We next present the data showing how basic physiological findings pertaining to hypoxia and lactate production have been taken and translated into a tool for predicting and thus better managing difficult labours. We then highlight examples of where physiological research has started to provide mechanistic insight into clinical problems associated with labour and parturition (obesity, diabetes, advanced maternal age, postdate and twin pregnancies) and suggest how these findings could be translated into new therapies for difficult labours.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of the Mechanism of Blast Wave Transmission Through a Surrogate Head
Authors: Hua Yi , Kumar Akula Praveen , Gu Linxia , Berg Jeff , Nelson Carl A.
Published: December 2013

This work is to develop an experiment-validated numerical model to elucidate the wave transmission mechanisms through a surrogate head under blast loading. Repeated shock tube tests were conducted on a surrogate head, i.e., water-filled polycarbonate shell. Surface strain on the skull simulant and pressure inside the brain simulant were recorded at multiple locations. A numerical model was developed to capture the shock wave propagation within the shock tube and the fluid-structure interaction between the shock wave and the surrogate head. The obtained numerical results were compared with the experimental measurements. The experiment-validated numerical model was then used to further understand the wave transmission mechanisms from the blast to the surrogate head, including the flow field around the head, structural response of the skull simulant, and pressure distributions inside the brain simulant. Results demonstrated that intracranial pressure in the anterior part of the brain simulant was dominated by the direct blast wave propagation, while in the posterior part it was attributed to both direct blast wave propagation and skull flexure, which took effect at a later time. This study served as an exploration of the physics of blast-surrogate interaction and a precursor to a realistic head model.
RANS and Large Eddy Simulation of Internal Combustion Engine Flows—A Comparative Study
Authors: Yang Xiaofeng , Gupta Saurabh , Kuo Tang-Wei , Gopalakrishnan Venkatesh
Published: December 2013

A comparative cold flow analysis between Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) and large eddy simulation (LES) cycle-averaged velocity and turbulence predictions is carried out for a single cylinder engine with a transparent combustion chamber (TCC) under motored conditions using high-speed particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurements as the reference data. Simulations are done using a commercial computationally fluid dynamics (CFD) code CONVERGE with the implementation of standard k-ε and RNG k-ε turbulent models for RANS and a one-equation eddy viscosity model for LES. The following aspects are analyzed in this study: The effects of computational domain geometry (with or without intake and exhaust plenums) on mean flow and turbulence predictions for both LES and RANS simulations. And comparison of LES versus RANS simulations in terms of their capability to predict mean flow and turbulence. Both RANS and LES full and partial geometry simulations are able to capture the overall mean flow trends qualitatively; but the intake jet structure, velocity magnitudes, turbulence magnitudes, and its distribution are more accurately predicted by LES full geometry simulations. The guideline therefore for CFD engineers is that RANS partial geometry simulations (computationally least expensive) with a RNG k-ε turbulent model and one cycle or more are good enough for capturing overall qualitative flow trends for the engineering applications. However, if one is interested in getting reasonably accurate estimates of velocity magnitudes, flow structures, turbulence magnitudes, and its distribution, they must resort to LES simulations. Furthermore, to get the most accurate turbulence distributions, one must consider running LES full geometry simulations.
Peristaltic Motion of Nanofluid in a Curved Channel
Authors: Hina Sadia , Mustafa Meraj , Abbasbandy Saeid , Hayat Tasawar , Alsaedi A.
Published: December 2013

This article describes the peristaltic transport of nanofluids in a curved channel. Transport equations contain the simultaneous effects of Brownian motion and thermophoretic diffusion of nanoparticles. The governing equations are modeled. Mathematical analysis is performed subject to long wavelength and low Reynolds number assumptions. Numerical solutions are obtained by employing shooting method. Results indicate an increase in the pumping rate when the strengths of Brownian motion and thermophoresis effects are increased. It is observed that the profiles of temperature and nanoparticles concentration are not symmetric about the central line of the curved channel which is different from the case of planar channel.