bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Appropriateness of Imaging for Lung Cancer Staging in a National Cohort
Authors: Backhus Leah M. , Farjah Farhood , Varghese Thomas K. , Cheng Aaron M. , Zhou Xiao-Hua , Wood Douglas E. , Kessler Larry , Zeliadt Steven B.
Published: September 2014

Purpose

Optimizing evidence-based care to improve quality is a critical priority in the United States. We sought to examine adherence to imaging guideline recommendations for staging in patients with locally advanced lung cancer in a national cohort.

Methods

We identified 3,808 patients with stage IIB, IIIA, or IIIB lung cancer by using the national Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Central Cancer Registry (2004-2007) and linked these patients to VA and Medicare databases to examine receipt of guideline-recommended imaging based on National Comprehensive Cancer Network and American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria. Our primary outcomes were receipt of guideline-recommended brain imaging and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. We also examined rates of overuse defined as combined use of bone scintigraphy (BS) and PET, which current guidelines recommend against. All imaging was assessed during the period 180 days before and 180 days after diagnosis.

Results

Nearly 75% of patients received recommended brain imaging, and 60% received recommended PET imaging. Overuse of BS and PET occurred in 25% of patients. More advanced clinical stage and later year of diagnosis were the only clinical or demographic factors associated with higher rates of guideline-recommended imaging after adjusting for covariates. We observed considerable regional variation in recommended PET imaging and overuse of combined BS and PET.

Conclusion

Receipt of guideline-recommended imaging is not universal. PET appears to be underused overall, whereas BS demonstrates continued overuse. Wide regional variation suggests that these findings could be the result of local practice patterns, which may be amenable to provider education efforts such as Choosing Wisely.
Placental Estrogen Suppresses Cyclin D1 Expression in the Nonhuman Primate Fetal Adrenal Cortex*
Authors: Dumitrescu Adina , Aberdeen Graham W. , Pepe Gerald J. , Albrecht Eugene D.
Published: September 2014

We have previously shown that estrogen selectively suppresses growth of the fetal zone of the baboon fetal adrenal cortex, which produces the C19-steroid precursors, eg, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, which are aromatized to estrogen within the placenta. In the present study, we determined whether fetal adrenal expression of cell cycle regulators are altered by estrogen and thus provide a mechanism by which estrogen regulates fetal adrenocortical development. Cyclin D1 mRNA levels in the whole fetal adrenal were increased 50% (P < .05), and the number of cells in the fetal adrenal definitive zone expressing cyclin D1 protein was increased 2.5-fold (P < .05), whereas the total number of cells in the fetal zone and fetal serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels were elevated 2-fold (P < .05) near term in baboons in which fetal serum estradiol levels were decreased by 95% (P < .05) after maternal administration of the aromatase inhibitor letrozole and restored to normal by concomitant administration of letrozole plus estradiol throughout second half of gestation. However, fetal adrenocortical expression of cyclin D2, the cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk)-2, Cdk4, and Cdk6, and Cdk regulatory proteins p27Kip1 and p57Kip2 were not changed by letrozole or letrozole plus estradiol administration. We suggest that estrogen controls the growth of the fetal zone of the fetal adrenal by down-regulating cyclin D1 expression and thus proliferation of progenitor cells within the definitive zone that migrate to the fetal zone. We propose that estrogen restrains growth and function of the fetal zone via cyclin D1 to maintain estrogen levels in a physiological range during primate pregnancy.
Decolonizing Transgender
Authors: Boellstorff Tom , Cabral Mauro , Cárdenas Micha , Cotten Trystan , Stanley Eric A. , Young Kalaniopua , Aizura Aren Z.
Published: September 2014

This roundtable discussion took place between August 2013 and January 2014 through e-mail. Eventually, two questions were posed, and participants individually e-mailed their responses in. The questions were posed in the hope of making space for a number of scholars, activists, and culture makers to take the pulse of transgender studies' political possibilities and limits and to talk practically about methods for creating change.
Ultradian oscillations and pulses: coordinating cellular responses and cell fate decisions
Authors: Isomura Akihiro , Kageyama Ryoichiro
Published: September 2014

Biological clocks play key roles in organismal development, homeostasis and function. In recent years, much work has focused on circadian clocks, but emerging studies have highlighted the existence of ultradian oscillators – those with a much shorter periodicity than 24 h. Accumulating evidence, together with recently developed optogenetic approaches, suggests that such ultradian oscillators play important roles during cell fate decisions, and analyzing the functional links between ultradian oscillation and cell fate determination will contribute to a deeper understanding of the design principle of developing embryos. In this Review, we discuss the mechanisms of ultradian oscillatory dynamics and introduce examples of ultradian oscillators in various biological contexts. We also discuss how optogenetic technology has been used to elucidate the biological significance of ultradian oscillations.
Transcriptomic analysis of mouse limb tendon cells during development
Authors: Havis Emmanuelle , Bonnin Marie-Ange , Olivera-Martinez Isabel , Nazaret Nicolas , Ruggiu Mathilde , Weibel Jennifer , Durand Charles , Guerquin Marie-Justine , Bonod-Bidaud Christelle , Ruggiero Florence , Schweitzer Ronen , Duprez Delphine
Published: September 2014

The molecular signals driving tendon development are not fully identified. We have undertaken a transcriptome analysis of mouse limb tendon cells that were isolated at different stages of development based on scleraxis (Scx) expression. Microarray comparisons allowed us to establish a list of genes regulated in tendon cells during mouse limb development. Bioinformatics analysis of the tendon transcriptome showed that the two most strongly modified signalling pathways were TGF-β and MAPK. TGF-β/SMAD2/3 gain- and loss-of-function experiments in mouse limb explants and mesenchymal stem cells showed that TGF-β signalling was sufficient and required via SMAD2/3 to drive mouse mesodermal stem cells towards the tendon lineage ex vivo and in vitro. TGF-β was also sufficient for tendon gene expression in late limb explants during tendon differentiation. FGF does not have a tenogenic effect and the inhibition of the ERK MAPK signalling pathway was sufficient to activate Scx in mouse limb mesodermal progenitors and mesenchymal stem cells.
Poised chromatin in the mammalian germ line
Authors: Lesch Bluma J. , Page David C.
Published: September 2014

Poised (bivalent) chromatin is defined by the simultaneous presence of histone modifications associated with both gene activation and repression. This epigenetic feature was first observed at promoters of lineage-specific regulatory genes in embryonic stem cells in culture. More recent work has shown that, in vivo, mammalian germ cells maintain poised chromatin at promoters of many genes that regulate somatic development, and that they retain this state from fetal stages through meiosis and gametogenesis. We hypothesize that the poised chromatin state is essential for germ cell identity and function. We propose three roles for poised chromatin in the mammalian germ line: prevention of DNA methylation, maintenance of germ cell identity and preparation for totipotency. We discuss these roles in the context of recently proposed models for germline potency and epigenetic inheritance.
Rejection of tmRNA·SmpB after GTP hydrolysis by EF-Tu on ribosomes stalled on intact mRNA
Authors: Kurita Daisuke , Miller Mickey R. , Muto Akira , Buskirk Allen R. , Himeno Hyouta
Published: September 2014

Messenger RNAs lacking a stop codon trap ribosomes at their 3′ ends, depleting the pool of ribosomes available for protein synthesis. In bacteria, a remarkable quality control system rescues and recycles stalled ribosomes in a process known as trans-translation. Acting as a tRNA, transfer-messenger RNA (tmRNA) is aminoacylated, delivered by EF-Tu to the ribosomal A site, and accepts the nascent polypeptide. Translation then resumes on a reading frame within tmRNA, encoding a short peptide tag that targets the nascent peptide for degradation by proteases. One unsolved issue in trans-translation is how tmRNA and its protein partner SmpB preferentially recognize stalled ribosomes and not actively translating ones. Here, we examine the effect of the length of the 3′ extension of mRNA on each step of trans-translation by pre-steady-state kinetic methods and fluorescence polarization binding assays. Unexpectedly, EF-Tu activation and GTP hydrolysis occur rapidly regardless of the length of the mRNA, although the peptidyl transfer to tmRNA decreases as the mRNA 3′ extension increases and the tmRNA·SmpB binds less tightly to the ribosome with an mRNA having a long 3′ extension. From these results, we conclude that the tmRNA·SmpB complex dissociates during accommodation due to competition between the downstream mRNA and the C-terminal tail for the mRNA channel. Rejection of the tmRNA·SmpB complex during accommodation is reminiscent of the rejection of near-cognate tRNA from the ribosome in canonical translation.
Subcellular transcriptome alterations in a cell culture model of spinal muscular atrophy point to widespread defects in axonal growth and presynaptic differentiation
Authors: Saal Lena , Briese Michael , Kneitz Susanne , Glinka Michael , Sendtner Michael
Published: September 2014

Neuronal function critically depends on coordinated subcellular distribution of mRNAs. Disturbed mRNA processing and axonal transport has been found in spinal muscular atrophy and could be causative for dysfunction and degeneration of motoneurons. Despite the advances made in characterizing the transport mechanisms of several axonal mRNAs, an unbiased approach to identify the axonal repertoire of mRNAs in healthy and degenerating motoneurons has been lacking. Here we used compartmentalized microfluidic chambers to investigate the somatodendritic and axonal mRNA content of cultured motoneurons by microarray analysis. In axons, transcripts related to protein synthesis and energy production were enriched relative to the somatodendritic compartment. Knockdown of Smn, the protein deficient in spinal muscular atrophy, produced a large number of transcript alterations in both compartments. Transcripts related to immune functions, including MHC class I genes, and with roles in RNA splicing were up-regulated in the somatodendritic compartment. On the axonal side, transcripts associated with axon growth and synaptic activity were down-regulated. These alterations provide evidence that subcellular localization of transcripts with axonal functions as well as regulation of specific transcripts with nonautonomous functions is disturbed in Smn-deficient motoneurons, most likely contributing to the pathophysiology of spinal muscular atrophy.
GASOLINE: a Cytoscape app for multiple local alignment of PPI networks
Authors: Micale Giovanni , Continella Andrea , Ferro Alfredo , Giugno Rosalba , Pulvirenti Alfredo
Published: September 2014

Comparing protein interaction networks can reveal interesting patterns of interactions for a specific function or process in distantly related species. In this paper we present GASOLINE, a Cytoscape app for multiple local alignments of PPI (protein-protein interaction) networks. The app is based on the homonymous greedy and stochastic algorithm. GASOLINE starts with the identification of sets of similar nodes, called seeds of the alignment. Alignments are then extended in a greedy manner and finally refined. Both the identification of seeds and the extension of alignments are performed through an iterative Gibbs sampling strategy. GASOLINE is a Cytoscape app for computing and visualizing local alignments, without requiring any post-processing operations. GO terms can be easily attached to the aligned proteins for further functional analysis of alignments. GASOLINE can perform the alignment task in few minutes, even for a large number of input networks.
Effect of Customer-Centric Structure on Long-Term Financial Performance
Authors: Lee Ju-Yeon , Sridhar Shrihari , Henderson Conor M. , Palmatier Robert W.
Published: September 2014

Firms with a customer-centric structure—an organizational design that aligns each business unit with a distinct customer group—are expected to exhibit superior performance compared to firms that are internally structured. Top executives invoke these customer-centric beliefs when initiating corporate reorganizations. However, a lack of empirical evidence linking these customer-centric structures to better long-term financial performance raises doubts if corporate structure can truly foster customer centricity and better position a firm to satisfy customers and hence exhibit superior performance. The current research addresses this question by using longitudinal data (1998–2010) that links Fortune 500 firms’ corporate-level structure to performance. Utilizing a dueling mediator model with allowance for endogeneity in a firm’s organizational structure choice, the study reveals that a corporate-level customer-centric structure translates to greater customer satisfaction, but simultaneously adds coordinating costs. Further explaining customer-centric structure’s record of mixed success, the benefits of increased customer satisfaction diminish (1) as competitors have already adopted customer-centric structures, (2) in fragmented markets where competitors leave few unique customer needs unaddressed, and (3) in less profitable industries. Ultimately, we show that aligning corporate structure around customers pays off only in specific competitive environments.

Data, as supplemental material, are available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1287/mksc.2014.0878 .
On the Lattice Structure of Stable Allocations in a Two-Sided Discrete-Concave Market
Authors: Murota Kazuo , Yokoi Yu
Published: September 2014

The stable allocation model is a many-to-many matching model in which each pair’s partnership is represented by a nonnegative integer. This paper establishes a link between two different formulations of this model: the choice function model studied thoroughly by Alkan and Gale and the discrete-concave (M♮-concave) value function model introduced by Eguchi, Fujishige, and Tamura. We show that the choice functions induced from M♮-concave value functions are endowed with consistency, persistence, and size monotonicity. This implies, by the result of Alkan and Gale, that the stable allocations for M♮-concave value functions form a distributive lattice with several significant properties such as polarity, complementarity, and uni-size property. Furthermore, we point out that these results can be extended for quasi M♮-concave value functions.
Male urinary incontinence
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: September 2014

Men may find themselves in a unique position when it comes to urinary incontinence, writes Ian Peate, and in need of encouragement and support to deal with a condition often associated with females
Generational memory and 20th-century lives
Authors: Alexander Sally
Published: September 2014

Ideas about memory as the source of human subjectivity developed throughout European liberal democracies in the first half of the 20th century, stimulated by war trauma and universal suffrage. Two archives of memory – psychoanalytic case histories and oral history – reveal the workings of generational memory in the formation of welfare states and social democracy. Generation is understood as people born into similar social environments, coming under similar influences at a particular historical time.
Identifying Good Group Homes: Qualitative Indicators Using a Quality of Life Framework
Authors: Bigby Christine , Knox Marie , Beadle-Brown Julie , Bould Emma
Published: September 2014

Despite change toward more individualized support, group homes are likely to remain for people with severe intellectual disability. As such, the search continues for ways to determine and maintain the quality of these settings. This article draws on in-depth qualitative analysis of participant observations conducted over 9–12 months in seven group homes for 21 people with a severe and profound level of intellectual disability. It explores the conceptualization of good outcomes and support for this group in terms of their quality of life and staff practices. The qualitative indicators of good outcomes for this group using quality of life domains can be used by auditors, community visitors, funders, advocates, or family members to guide observation and judgements about group homes.
A Mathematical Model for the Magnetoelastic Behavior of Anisotropic Magnetic Sensitive Materials Based on Continuum Theory
Authors: Usal Melek , Kurbanoğlu Cahit , Yünlü Lokman
Published: September 2014

Magnetoelastic behavior of a magnetic sensitive material has been analyzed theoretically in the present paper. The theory is formulated in the context of continuum electromagnetics. The solid medium is supposed to be made of elastic material with magnetic sensitivity and to be nonlinear, homogeneous, compressible, isothermal, has anisotropy. Magneto-elastic response of the material will show up as a stress and a magnetization field. From the formulation belonging to the constitutive equations, it has been observed that the stress and the magnetization have been derived from a scalar-valued thermodynamic potential defined in calculations. As a result of thermodynamic constraints, it has been determined that the free energy function is dependent on Green deformation tensor, magnetic field, and temperature distribution. The free energy function has been represented by a power series expansion and the type and number of terms taken into consideration in this series expansion has determined the non-linearity of the medium. Constitutive equations of symmetric stress, magnetization field and asymmetric stress have been obtained in both material and spatial coordinates. The quasi-linear constitutive equations which on material coordinates have been obtained by expressions (63)–(65). The quasi-linear constitutive equations have been given in expressions (70)–(72) on spatial coordinates. Finally, the quasi-linear constitutive equations of the symmetric stress and magnetization field are substituted in the relevant balance equations to obtain the field equations. The field equations containing the unknowns uk
and ϕ coordinates have been obtained by expressions (75) and (76). Solution of these field equations under initial and boundary conditions forms the mathematical structure of specified a boundary value problem.
Dynamics of species composition of small non-volant mammals from the northern Cordillera Central of Colombia
Authors: Sánchez-Giraldo Camilo , Díaz-Nieto Juan F.
Published: September 2014

On the basis of our recent fieldwork and historical records, we document the diversity of small non-volant mammals in the northern end of Cordillera Central of Colombia, an important region in the context of vertebrate biodiversity. From February 2004 to February 2006, we completed mammal surveys in three localities at the department of Antioquia, with elevations ranging from 1650 to 2000 m. We recorded a total of 14 species: three marsupials, one shrew, one heteromyid, and nine sigmodontinae rodents, including three species endemic in Cordillera Central. The rodents
Packing Effects of N-Ras Binding to a DOPC Membrane – a Neutron Reflectivity and TIRF Spectroscopy High-Pressure Study
Authors: Erlkamp Mirko , Moulin Jean-Francois , Winter Roland , Czeslik Claus
Published: September 2014

We have analyzed the structural changes of
a 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DOPC) membrane
upon insertion of the lipidated N-Ras protein as a function of
pressure. N-Ras is a small GTPase that plays an important role for
signal transduction and cell growth. After lipidation with hexadecyl
(HD) and farnesyl (Far) residues, N-Ras HD-Far can insert into lipid
membranes. In this study, we describe the concomitant changes of the
DOPC membrane structure using neutron reflectometry (NR) and total
internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) spectroscopy. The data have
been recorded as a function of pressure up to 2000 bar,
because pressure can be used to explore low-volume states and high
packing densities. The analysis of the NR data reveals that the DOPC
membrane adopts a more ordered state with sharpened polar-apolar
interfaces upon pressurization. After binding of N-Ras HD-Far via
insertion of the two lipid anchors, this effect becomes even more
pronounced. Complementary TIRF experiments corroborate these
findings. Whereas pressure increases the generalized polarization
(GP) value of the DOPC membrane indicating a pressure-induced
dense packing of the lipid chains, the incorporation of the N-Ras
HD-Far into the DOPC membrane is also found to enhance the GP
value. Moreover, application of high pressure does not decrease the
degree of N-Ras HD-Far binding to the DOPC membrane confirming the
bound state to be a low-volume state. The results of this study shed
some light on the effect of pressure on membrane-associated
Ras-controlled signaling events in extreme environments, such as the
deep sea, where pressures up to 1 kbar are reached.
Getting Students Talking
Authors: Alozie Nonye , Mitchell Claire
Published: September 2014

Why is it so hard to get students talking in science class? Who is responsible? Are the students unwilling to speak in class? What kinds of supports are helpful for in-the-moment teaching during classroom discussions in science? We present one high school teacher’s facilitation of science discussions while supported by a dialogic discussion structure that was collaboratively developed through professional-development workshops. Our findings provide a real-time teaching tool for teachers working toward integrating inquiry-based science discussions in their classrooms.
Forest Health Detectives
Authors: Bal Tara L.
Published: September 2014

“Forest health” is an important concept often not covered in tree, forest, insect, or fungal ecology and biology. With minimal, inexpensive equipment, students can investigate and conduct their own forest health survey to assess the percentage of trees with natural or artificial wounds or stress. Insects and diseases in the forest are the focus, though student guides could be modified for many terrestrial or aquatic systems, depending on location. The lesson is geared toward older students, with suggestions for adaptation in earlier grades as well.
“A Cellular Encounter”
Authors: Cohen Joel I.
Published: September 2014

A standard part of biology curricula is a project-based assessment of cell structure and function. However, these are often individual assignments that promote little problem-solving or group learning and avoid the subject of organelle chemical interactions. I evaluate a model-based cell project designed to foster group and individual guided inquiry, and review how the project stimulates problem-solving at a cellular system level. Students begin with four organism cell types, label organelles, describe their structures, and affix chemicals produced or needed for each organelle’s function. Students simulate cell signaling, cell recognition, and transport of molecules through membranes. After describing the project, I present measures of student participation and a rubric, compare individual versus group work, and highlight future modifications, including alignment with the Next Generation Science Standard of “Structure, Function, and Information Processing.”
Using Mini-reports to Teach Scientific Writing to Biology Students
Authors: Simmons Alexandra D. , Larios-Sanz Maia , Amin Shivas , Rosell Rosemarie C.
Published: September 2014

Anyone who has taught an introductory biology lab has sat at their desk in front of a towering stack of lengthy lab reports and wondered if there was a better way to teach scientific writing. We propose the use of a one-page format that we have called a “mini-report,” which we believe better allows students to understand the structure and characteristics of proper scientific writing and reduces the grading-time investment for instructors.
Shigella hacks host immune responses by reprogramming the host epigenome
Authors: Ashida Hiroshi , Sasakawa Chihiro
Published: September 2014

Bacterial pathogens alter host transcriptional programs to promote infection. Shigella OspF is an essential virulence protein with a unique phosphothreonine lyase activity. A new study in The EMBO Journal (Harouz et al, ) reveals a novel function of OspF: targeting of heterochromatin protein 1γ (HP1γ) and downregulation of a subset of immune genes. These results illustrate how bacterial pathogens exploit epigenetic modifications to counteract host immune responses.
Rupture of a Spinal Dermoid Cyst May Lead to Dissemination and Progress of Fatty Tissue in the Central Spinal Canal and Intracranial Subarachnoid Space
Authors: Kabbasch Christoph , Dorn Franziska , Mpotsaris Anastasios , Weber Christoph , Liebig Thomas
Published: September 2014

Intradural dermoid cysts may rupture and subsequent subarachnoid dissemination of lipid droplets has been described before. However, the rupture of a spinal dermoid cyst into the central spinal canal is a rare entity. In this context, dissemination of fat into the intracranial subarachnoid space with local progression is a peculiar finding that, to the best of our knowledge, has not been published so far. We describe the case of a 28-year-old man with a dermoid cyst at the upper lumbar level as part of a complex congenital craniospinal malformation, presenting with new unspecific neurologic symptoms. CT and MRI revealed disseminated intraventricular and subarachnoid lipid droplets intracranially and in the spine not present on previous CT and MRI scans obtained eight years earlier. Thus, repeated rupture of a spinal dermoid cyst with subarachnoid spread and/or secondary proliferation should be suspected.
Borderline Personality Disorder in Adolescence
Authors: Kaess Michael , Brunner Romuald , Chanen Andrew
Published: September 2014

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a common and severe mental disorder that is associated with severe functional impairment and a high suicide rate. BPD is usually associated with other psychiatric and personality disorders, high burden on families and carers, continuing resource utilization, and high treatment costs. BPD has been a controversial diagnosis in adolescents, but this is no longer justified. Recent evidence demonstrates that BPD is as reliable and valid among adolescents as it is in adults and that adolescents with BPD can benefit from early intervention. Consequently, adolescent BPD is now recognized in psychiatric classification systems and in national treatment guidelines. This review aims to inform practitioners in the field of adolescent health about the nature of BPD in adolescence and the benefits of early detection and intervention. BPD diagnosis and treatment should be considered part of routine practice in adolescent mental health to improve these individuals’ well-being and long-term prognosis.
Pertussis Immunization in Infancy and Adolescent Asthma Medication
Authors: Vogt Hartmut , Bråbäck Lennart , Kling Anna-Maria , Grünewald Maria , Nilsson Lennart
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Childhood immunization may influence the development of asthma, possibly due to lack of infections or a shift in the T-helper cell type 1/T-helper cell type 2/regulatory T cells balance. We therefore investigated whether pertussis immunization in infancy is associated with asthma medication in adolescence.

METHODS:

After 14 years of no general pertussis vaccination, almost 82 000 Swedish children were immunized for pertussis in a vaccination trial between June 1, 1993, and June 30, 1994. In a follow-up analysis of almost 80 000 children, their data were compared with those of ∼100 000 nonvaccinated children, born during a 5-month period before and a 7-month period after the vaccination trial. Data for the main outcome variable (ie, dispensed prescribed asthma medication for each individual in the cohort during 2008–2010) were obtained from the national prescription database. Multivariate regression models were used to calculate the effect size of vaccination on dispensed asthma medication (odds ratios [OR], 95% confidence intervals [CI]). Approaches similar to intention-to-treat and per-protocol methods were used.

RESULTS:

The prevalence rates of various asthma medications for study patients at 15 years of age differed between 4.6% and 7.0%. The crude ORs for any asthma medication and antiinflammatory treatment in pertussis-vaccinated children after intention-to-treat analysis were 0.97 (95% CI: 0.93–1.00) and 0.94 (95% CI: 0.90–0.98), respectively. Corresponding adjusted ORs were 0.99 (95% CI: 0.95–1.03) and 0.97 (95% CI: 0.92–1.01). Similar ORs were found after per-protocol analysis.

CONCLUSIONS:

Pertussis immunization in infancy does not increase the risk of asthma medication use in adolescents. Our study presents evidence that pertussis immunization in early childhood can be considered safe with respect to long-term development of asthma.
Educational bias in the assessment of severe dementia: Brazilian cutoffs for severe Mini-Mental State Examination
Authors: Wajman José Roberto , Oliveira Fabricio Ferreira de , Schultz Rodrigo Rizek , Marin Sheilla de Medeiros Correia , Bertolucci Paulo Henrique Ferreira
Published: September 2014

Cognitive assessment in advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is limited by the imprecision of most instruments. Objective: To determine objective cognitive responses in moderate and severe AD patients by way of the Severe Mini-Mental State Examination (SMMSE), and to correlate performances with Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores. Method: Consecutive outpatients in moderate and severe stages of AD (Clinical Dementia Rating 2.0 or 3.0) were evaluated and compared according to MMSE and SMMSE scores. Results: Overall 400 patients were included, 67.5% females, mean age 76.6±6.7 years-old. There was no significant impact of age or gender over MMSE or SMMSE scores. Mean schooling was 4.4±2.5 years, impacting SMMSE scores (p=0.008). Scores on MMSE and SMMSE were significantly correlated (F-ratio=690.6325, p<0.0001). Conclusion: The SMMSE is influenced by schooling, but not by age or gender, and is an accurate test for assessment of moderate and severe AD.
Design and construction deficiencies of timber railway bridges
Authors: Bill Nicholas A.
Published: September 2014

British and Irish railways once featured several thousand timber bridges and viaducts. Modern and contemporary sources suggest that these structures were replaced due to problems with decay. Consequently, this decay presents a significant challenge to proponents of modern timber bridges, with their critics arguing that timber structures would fail to satisfy the service life requirements. In reality, what actually had a greater influence on their performance and longevity; timber's inherent liability to decay, or deficiencies in their design and construction? This paper presents the findings of the first major study on nineteenth-century timber bridges in the UK, aimed at documenting the design and construction methods used, and their subsequent performance. Despite problems with decay, many nineteenth-century railway bridges lasted beyond their expected design life. Moreover, most problems affecting their life span were the result of erroneous design practices coupled with poor construction and maintenance, rather than inherent material deficiency. Crucially, they could be either obviated or limited through better detailing, modern preservatives and a more judicious consideration of structural forces. These nineteenth-century structures provide crucial lessons in timber bridge design for modern engineers as the profession looks to provide more sustainable infrastructure both now and in the future.
Crack detection in concrete gravity dams using a genetic algorithm
Authors: Rezaiee-Pajand Mohammad , Tavakoli Fariba Hassanzadeh
Published: September 2014

The main aim of this paper is to introduce an efficient procedure for crack detection in concrete gravity dams. A genetic algorithm and finite-element modelling are employed to perform the optimisation tasks. A two-dimensional cracked element is formulated for non-linear analysis. In this investigation, the kinematics of the discontinuous displacement field in a body with an internal discontinuity is utilised. Based on the suggested interpolation functions for the discrete segments, and also the element displacement field, the element stiffness matrix is calculated. Moreover, a genetic algorithm approach for crack identification is proposed, which can identify the location and magnitude of cracks in concrete gravity dams. By minimising the difference between the analytical responses given by the authors' element and the measured ones, the genetic algorithm identifies the crack. Finally, several numerical examples are analysed for the accuracy test and a few of them are presented here.
From research to action: enhancing crop yield through wild pollinators
Authors: Garibaldi Lucas A , Carvalheiro Luísa G , Leonhardt Sara D , Aizen Marcelo A , Blaauw Brett R , Isaacs Rufus , Kuhlmann Michael , Kleijn David , Klein Alexandra M , Kremen Claire , Morandin Lora , Scheper Jeroen , Winfree Rachael
Published: September 2014

Recent evidence highlights the value of wild‐insect species richness and abundance for crop pollination worldwide. Yet, deliberate physical importation of single species (eg European honey bees) into crop fields for pollination remains the mainstream management approach, and implementation of practices to enhance crop yield (production per area) through wild insects is only just beginning. With few exceptions, studies measuring the impacts of pollinator‐supporting practices on wild‐insect richness and pollination service success – particularly in relation to long‐term crop yield and economic profit – are rare. Here, we provide a general framework and examples of approaches for enhancing pollinator richness and abundance, quantity and quality of pollen on stigmas, crop yield, and farmers' profit, including some benefits detected only through long‐term monitoring. We argue for integrating the promotion of wild‐insect species richness with single‐species management to benefit farmers and society.
Biogeography of a plant invasion: plant–herbivore interactions
Authors: Cronin James T. , Bhattarai Ganesh P. , Allen Warwick J. , Meyerson Laura A.
Published: September 2014

Theory predicts that native plant species should exhibit latitudinal gradients in the strength of their interactions with herbivores. We hypothesize that if an invasive plant species exhibits a different latitudinal gradient in response to herbivores (e.g., a nonparallel gradient), it can create large‐scale heterogeneities in community resistance/susceptibility to the invasive species. We conducted a study of latitudinal variation in the strength of herbivory and defenses of native genotypes ofPhragmites australisin North America (NA) and Europe (EU) and European invasive genotypes in NA. Within NA, we tested whether (1) invasive genotypes are better defended and suffer less herbivory than co‐occurring native genotypes, (2) herbivory and defenses of nativeP. australisdecreases with increasing latitude; and (3) invasive genotypes exhibit either no latitudinal gradient, or a nonparallel latitudinal gradient in herbivory and defenses compared to native genotypes. For the European genotypes, we tested two additional hypotheses: (4) defenses, nutritional condition, and herbivory would differ between the native (EU) and invasive ranges (NA) and (5) latitudinal gradients in defenses and herbivory would be similar between ranges. Within NA, chewing damage, internal stem‐feeding incidence, and aphid abundance were 650%, 300%, and 70% lower, respectively, on invasive than nativeP. australisgenotypes. Genotypes in NA also differed in nutritional condition (percent N, C:N ratio), but there was little support for invasive genotypes being better defended than native genotypes. For the European genotypes, herbivory was significantly lower in the invaded than native range, supporting the enemy‐release hypothesis. Defense levels (leaf toughness and total phenolics) and tissue percent C and percent N were higher in the invaded than native range for European genotypes. Overall, latitudinal gradients inP. australisnutritional condition, defenses, and herbivory were common. Interestingly, chewing damage and stem‐feeder incidence decreased with latitude for nativeP. australisgenotypes in NA and EU, but no latitudinal gradients in response to herbivores were evident for invasive genotypes in NA. Nonparallel latitudinal gradients in herbivory between invasive and nativeP. australissuggest that the community may be more susceptible to invasion at lower than at higher latitudes. Our study points to the need for invasion biology to include a biogeographic perspective.
Trusted License Distribution System Based on IPSec VPN for Mobile DRM
Authors: Wang Jian , Zhang Zhiyong , Xiang Fei , Yu Weihua
Published: September 2014

With the rapid development of mobile applications, DRM systems used for mobile terminals and wireless environment
become popular. However, the present DRM schemes are not fit for mobile applications because of the new security
problems in wireless environment and the limitations of mobile terminals. In this paper, a trusted license distribution
system based on IPSec VPN and its correlative issues are presented. This system supports DRM clients to build IPSec
VPN connection based on trusted authentication with DRM license server, and obtains license through secure tunnel. Implementation
and testing indicate that the security and efficiency of the proposed scheme can reach the requirement of the
mobile DRM.
Study on Influence of Thickness and Electromagnetic Parameter of Perfectly Matched Layer (PML)
Authors: Ji Jinzu , Liu Feiliang
Published: September 2014

Perfectly matched layer (PML) absorbing boundary condition (ABC) is an important technique in finitedifference
time-domain (FDTD) when simulating infinite area's electromagnetic behaviour in finite area. A big enough
computational area was designed in which there is no influence of reflective wave. The radiation of sinusoidal line source
in this area was the benchmark for assessment of reflectivity. The total wave with boundary condition subtracted by
benchmark was reflective wave. Influences of the PML absorbing layer's thickness, electromagnetic parameter distribution
and loss tangent were studied via this method. The results show that 15-mesh-layer may elaborate the PML's ability
and the reflectivity may be only 0.003. Better absorbing effect can be achieved when loss tangent is distributed in second
power and the corresponding loss tangent in cut off boundary is 2.5.
Forecasting Tendency of the Transmission Line Project Cost Index Using Markov Chain
Authors: Yi Tao , Cui Shanshan , Xu Ke
Published: September 2014

The transmission line project cost index, which reflects price changes of transmission line project components
affecting project cost, is an integrated indicator. Based on the constitution of the transmission line project cost index, 324
transmission line project cost index during 2002 and 2010 were selected, in order to describe variation tendency of the
transmission line project cost index in recent years. The results of Markov chains as a proper model were created for forecasting
the transmission line project cost index. The primary contribution of this research is the creation of Markov chain
forecasting model that reflects the variation of transmission line project cost index more objective and quickly. It is shown
that the method applied to the overall cost evaluation and analysis of factors which influence cost in the estimating stage.
It is expected that this work will contribute to the dynamic management of the transmission line project cost index.
A Cooperative Spectrum Sensing Scheme Based on Extension Theory for Cognitive Radio Sensor Networks
Authors: Ouyang Sheng , Wan Pin , Wang Yonghua , Wang Liyuan , Wang Qinruo
Published: September 2014

This paper proposes a cooperative censoring spectrum sensing scheme based on dependent function of extension
theory for Cognitive Radio Sensor Networks (CRSN). The scheme uses the dependent function of Extension theory
to identify the presence or absence of the licensed user's (LU) signal, and then calculate the related degree through dependent
function to identify the initial test results of licensed users, and then send these results to the fusion center. Use a
trust evaluation scheme based on noise jamming and channel attenuation for each node, and then this trust evaluation result
of each node is sent to the fusion center. The fusion center makes the final decision by the K-M rule. Simulation results
show that the proposed scheme could improve the detect probability effectively.
Test Pattern Generation with Low Power for Delay Faults in Digital Circuits by Evolution Method with Hybrid Strategies
Authors: Zhongliang Pan , Ling Chen , Yihui Chen
Published: September 2014

The high power consumption during circuit test process can produce unwanted failures or take effects on circuit
reliability, therefore the reduction of both peak power and average power of circuit test is necessary. A test pattern generation
approach is presented in this paper for the delay faults in digital circuits, the approach makes use of the evolution
method with the hybrid strategies to produce the test vectors with low power consumption. First of all, a pair of vectors
that may detect a delay fault is coded as an individual. A lot of individuals constitute the populations. Secondly, the test
vectors with low power are produced by the evolution of these populations. Many new individuals are randomly produced
and are added into every evolution step, and the mutation mode of individuals is related to other individuals in the
current population. A lot of experimental results show that the test vectors with low power for the delay faults in digital
circuits can be produced by the approach proposed in this paper, and the approach can get the large reduction of power
consumption when compared with random test generation algorithm.
Wireless Sensor Network Based on Airport Noise Data Collection System
Authors: Xiaojie Zang , Wenxin Ren
Published: September 2014

For the requirements of multipoint real-time data collection and transmission in the noise monitoring of current
civil aviation airport, the design and implementation of noise data collection system based on wireless sensor network is
discussed. The collection system is composed of ZigBee wireless sensor network in the airport and ARM noise data control
module. Monitoring personnel can get airport noise data collected by ZigBee wireless sensor network through RS232
serial communication between ARM platform and ZigBee network coordinator.
Integration Design of Temperature Sensor and Double RFID Tag
Authors: Xiangdong Zhang , Changming Li , Xiaoqiu Gao , Lijie Li
Published: September 2014

A new design about the integration of temperature sensor and RFID tag is provided. This is a dual-tag design,
in which the temperature element is connected to one of the RFID tag antennas to form a parallel structure. In this design,
some of the functions of the sensor are transferred to the RFID reader so that some components of the sensor can be cut,
reducing the production costs of existing design. By defining the signal strength of the first tag as a reference value, the
problem of setting a standard is solved in the temperature detection process. RF module can be used to make the energy
transformation without requiring the entire design to have an external continuous power source to provide energy. In addition,
experimental data proves the feasibility of this design.
Genetic diversity of wild sunflower (Helianthus sp.) accessions with different tolerance to mid-stalk white rot
Authors: Miladinovic Dragana , Taski-Ajdukovic Ksenija , Nagl Nevena , Kovacevic Branislav , Dimitrijevic Aleksandra , Imerovski Ivana , Miladinovic Jegor , Dusanic Nenad , Balalic Igor
Published: September 2014

Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers were used to detect
polymorphism among accessions of wild sunflower species H?lianthus
maximiliani, Helianthus tuberosus, Helianthus mollis and Helianthus rigidus
with different tolerance to mid-stalk white rot and selection of potential
markers for different levels of tolerance to this disease. Estimates of
genetic variation showed that genetic diversity was equally distributed
between Helianthus species and within them. Cluster analysis corresponded to
the phylogenetic relations within the genus Helianthus. The results obtained
by principal coordinates analysis (PCoA), where the first two principal
coordinates accounted for 83.7% of total variation, perfectly coincided with
the results of cluster analysis. Contingency coefficient significance test
showed that most of the used primers generated bands associated with some
level of tolerance or susceptibility to mid- stalk white rot. Furthermore,
contingency analysis showed that primer C12 generated bands associated with
resistance (100%) to mid-stalk white rot both in H. mollis and in all
accessions, while primer X18 generated bands significantly associated with
high tolerance (75%) in H. rigidus, H. mollis as well as in all tested
accessions. The C15-600 bp locus was found to be significantly associated
with high tolerance (75%) in all accessions, and medium tolerance (50%) in H.
mollis.
Species variation of Aegilops genus and heavy metal content in plant habitat soil at southern Adriatic localities
Authors: Dimitrijevic Miodrag , Petrovic Sofija
Published: September 2014

The Aegilops genus is a wild relative to the bread wheat, having chromosomes
homologous to wheat chromosomes. That genus could be the source of many
usefull abiotic stress tolerance genes. Facing a global climate changes, as
well as, environmental erosion, it is important to create a desirable genetic
variability that could correspond to environmental challenges. Heavy metals
in soil could cause soil pollution, could lead to different phenotypic
changes in plants, and could enter food chain. Assessment of Aegilops sp.
population variation, as well as, heavy metal content in their habitat was
the main goal in this research. Aegilops population composition was examined
and samples were taken from 55 localities of South Adriatic coastal and
littoral areas. Topsoil samples from all the localities were taken and heavy
metal content, namely Cr, Pb, Zn, Ni, Cd and Cu, was analyzed,. Manganese
content was measured, as well. Value of pH was established.