bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevention of hospital‐acquired hyponatraemia: individualised fluid therapy
Authors: Lunøe M. , Overgaard‐Steensen C.
Published: May 2015

Background

Large amounts of fluids are daily prescribed to hospitalised patients across different medical specialities. Unfortunately, inappropriate fluid administration commonly causes iatrogenic hyponatraemia with associated increase in morbidity and mortality.

Methods/results

Fundamental for prevention of hospital‐acquired hyponatraemia is an understanding of what determines plasma sodium concentration (P‐[Na+]) in the individual patient. P‐[Na+] is determined by balances of water and cations according to Edelman. This paper discusses the mechanisms influencing water and cation balances. In the hospitalised patient, non‐osmotic antidiuretic hormone secretion is frequent and results in a reduced renal electrolyte‐free water clearance (EFWC). This condition puts the patient at risk of hyponatraemia upon infusion of fluids that are hypotonic such as 5% glucose, Darrow‐glucose, NaKglucose and 0.45% NaCl in 5% glucose. It is suggested that individualised fluid therapy includes the following: Firstly, bolus therapy with Ringer‐acetate/Ringer‐lactate/0.9% NaCl in the hypovolaemic patient to minimise the risk of fluid under‐/overload. Secondly, P‐[Na+] should be monitored together with the balances influencing P‐[Na+]. This may include EFWC in patients at additional risk of hyponatraemia. In patients with potentially reduced intracranial compliance (e.g. meningitis, intracranial bleeding, cerebral contusion and brain oedema), even a small decrease in P‐[Na+] induced by slightly hypotonic fluids like Ringer‐acetate/Ringer‐lactate can increase the intracranial pressure dramatically. Consequently, 0.9 % NaCl is recommended as first‐line fluid for such patients.

Conclusions

The occurrence of hospital‐acquired hyponatraemia may be reduced by prescribing fluids, type and amount, with the same dedication as shown for other drugs.
The estimated ex ante economic impact of Bt cowpea in Niger, Benin and Northern Nigeria
Authors: Gbègbèlègbè S. D. , Lowenberg‐DeBoer J. , Adeoti R. , Lusk J. , Coulibaly O.
Published: May 2015

Genetically modified (GM) crops could increase economic growth and enhance living standards in Africa, but political issues have slowed the use of biotechnology. This is the first study that assesses the potential impact of GM crops in Africa while considering the preferences of producers and consumers towards GMOs as well as the income and price risks they face. The study uses a choice experiment to estimate the ex ante economic impact of a novel technology, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) cowpea, on producers and consumers in Benin, Niger and northern Nigeria. The experiment involves the simulation of a market transaction similar to those in open air markets in West Africa. During the market simulation, respondents are informed about the advantages and disadvantages, including health risks, of Bt cowpea. The results from the study suggest that cowpea growers and consumers in Benin and northern Nigeria prefer Bt to conventional cowpea for health safety reasons. The results estimate that social welfare in Benin, Niger and northern Nigeria would increase by at least US$11.82 per capita annually with Bt cowpea, if seed sectors are operating smoothly. With inefficiencies in seed sectors and the potential for cowpea acreage increase, the estimated social welfare increase in the region would be about US$1.26 per capita annually.
Are we overestimating the negative impact of higher food prices? Evidence from Ghana
Authors: Minot Nicholas , Dewina Reno
Published: May 2015

Most studies of the welfare impact of higher food prices adopt Deaton's approach, based on the first‐order effect of prices changes using income and expenditure survey data. This paper explores the impact of higher maize and food prices in Ghana and considers the sensitivity of results to changes in several assumptions. If second‐order effects are included, incorporating household response to price changes, the welfare impact of food price increases is more positive, but only modestly so. However, if we assume that marketing margins are constant in real terms rather than proportional to prices, the welfare impact is substantially more positive. These findings highlight the need for more research on the behavior of marketing margins under volatile prices.
Determination of gas flow through airway exchange catheters: measured and calculated values and dependence on pressure and entrainment
Authors: YanHong R. , Ihra G. C. , Gore C.
Published: May 2015

Serious complications have been described during oxygenation of patients with airway exchange catheters, due to catheter malpositioning, accidentally applied high airway pressures or high delivered volumes. In this in‐vitro study, we analysed gas flow through various airway exchange catheters and described its dependence on driving pressure and entrainment. We applied driving pressures between 0.5 and 2.5 bar and observed maximal flow rates of 3.6 l.s−1. Measured gas flow values differed significantly from values calculated according to the Hagen–Poiseuille equation. Although flow restriction in ventilators and small‐bore connectors will limit gas flow, large gas volumes may be unintentionally applied via the airway exchange catheters, leading to serious complications.
Antibody response to influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 in vaccinated, serologically infected and unaffected pregnant women and their newborns
Authors: Helmig Rikke B. , Maimburg Rikke D. , Erikstrup Christian , Nielsen Henriette S. , Petersen Olav B. , Nielsen Lars P. , Hvidman Lone , Veirum Jens E. , Henriksen Tine B. , Storgaard Merete
Published: May 2015

Objective

To evaluate the serological response in pregnant Danish women immunized during the 2009 pandemic by serologic infection or by vaccination with influenza A(H1N1) Pandemrix® and describe levels of passively acquired maternal antibody in their offspring.

Design

Observational cohort study.

Setting

Department of Obstetrics, Aarhus University Hospital, Skejby, Denmark, October to December 2009.

Population

Pregnant women and their offspring

Methods

Serological analysis of antibodies to influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 by hemagglutination inhibition assay in 197 women and their offspring. Blood samples were collected consecutively at delivery from the mother and the umbilical cord. In a subgroup of 124 of the 197 women, an additional blood sample from gestational weeks 9–12 was available for analysis.

Main outcome measures

Seroconversion, geometric mean titer, geometric mean‐fold rise and protective antibodies.

Results

33 of the 124 subgroup women (27%) seroconverted during pregnancy, 79% after vaccination and 17% after serologic infection (p < 0.001). The geometric mean titer after delivery in non‐vaccinated, non‐serologically infected women was 17.1 (95%CI 15.7–18.6). The geometric mean titer increased significantly after serologic infection with H1N1 [76.5 (95%CI 51.3–113.9), p < 0.001] and after vaccination [589.6 (95%CI 339.3–1024.7), p < 0.001]. The geometric mean‐fold rise (mother at delivery/mother early pregnancy) was significantly higher after vaccination [2.23 (1.93–2.54)] than after serologic infection [1.73 (1.59–1.87), p = 0.013]. In newborns of vaccinated mothers, 89.5% had protective antibody levels compared with 15.8% in newborns of serologically infected mothers (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Influenza vaccination during pregnancy confers passive immunity to the newborn.
A novel stem cell associated marker identified by monoclonal antibody HESC5:3 differentiates between neoplastic lesions in follicular thyroid neoplasms
Authors: Heikkilä Annukka , Fermér Christian , Hagström Jaana , Louhimo Johanna , Mäenpää Hanna , Siironen Päivi , Heiskanen Ilkka , Nilsson Olle , Arola Johanna , Haglund Caj
Published: May 2015

Follicular thyroid lesions are the bane of cytopathology. Differentiation between adenoma and carcinoma is impossible, and often these neoplasms are indistinguishable even from uninodular goitre. In other cancers as well, a theory of stem cells as the origin of cancer has been discussed in thyroid carcinogenesis. We aimed to examine a novel stem cell associated marker identified by monoclonal antibody HESC5:3 in follicular lesions in an attempt to find a marker for differential diagnosis in thyroid cytopathology. HESC5:3 was raised against and is specific for undifferentiated human embryonic stem cells. The epitope of this novel antibody is to be defined. Immunohistochemical expression of HESC5:3 was examined in clinical material comprised of follicular neoplasms (83 adenomas, 43 carcinomas) and non‐neoplastic lesions (41 goitrous, 22 hyperplastic, 23 normal tissue specimens). Staining differed significantly between neoplastic and non‐neoplastic lesions. Nuclear staining was increased in non‐neoplastic cells, whereas in neoplastic cells expression was mainly cytoplasmic. There was no difference between benign and malignant lesions, suggesting a role in early tumourigenesis. In conclusion, the HESC5:3 epitope may be of benefit as a neoplasia marker in distinguishing between uninodular goitre and neoplasia. Characterization of the epitope would increase the interest in this promising new stem cell associated marker.
Exposure–effect relationship of mycophenolic acid and prednisolone in adult patients with lupus nephritis
Authors: Abd Rahman Azrin N. , Tett Susan E. , Abdul Gafor Halim A. , McWhinney Brett C. , Staatz Christine E.
Published: May 2015

Aims

The aim was to examine relationships between total and unbound mycophenolic acid (MPA) and prednisolone exposure and clinical outcomes in patients with lupus nephritis.

Methods

Six blood samples were drawn pre‐ and at 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 h post‐dose and total and unbound MPA and prednisolone pre‐dose (C0), maximum concentration (Cmax) and area under the concentration–time curve (AUC) were determined using non‐compartmental analysis in 25 patients. The analyses evaluated drug exposures in relation to treatment response since starting MPA and drug‐related adverse events.

Results

Dose‐normalized AUC varied 10‐, 8‐, 7‐ and 19‐fold for total MPA, unbound MPA, total prednisolone and unbound prednisolone, respectively. Median values (95% CI) of total MPA AUC(0,8 h) (21.5 [15.0, 42.0] vs. 11.2 [4.8, 30.0] mg l–1 h, P= 0.048) and Cmax (11.9 [6.7, 26.3] vs. 6.1 [1.6, 9.2] mg l–1, P = 0.016) were significantly higher in responders than non‐responders. Anaemia was significantly associated with higher total (37.8 [14.1, 77.5] vs. 18.5 [11.7, 32.7] mg l–1 h, P = 0.038) and unbound MPA AUC(0,12 h) (751 [214, 830] vs. 227 [151, 389] mg l–1 h, P = 0.004). Unbound prednisolone AUC(0,24 h) was significantly higher in patients with Cushingoid appearance (unbound: 1372 [1242, 1774] vs. 846 [528, 1049] nmol l–1 h, P = 0.019) than in those without. Poorer treatment response was observed in patients with lowest tertile exposure to both total MPA and prednisolone as compared with patients with middle and higher tertile exposure (17% vs. 74%, P = 0.023).

Conclusions

This study suggests a potential role for therapeutic drug monitoring in individualizing immunosuppressant therapy in patients with lupus nephritis.
Respecting Autonomy Over Time: Policy and Empirical Evidence on Re‐Consent in Longitudinal Biomedical Research
Authors: Wallace Susan E , Gourna Elli G , Laurie Graeme , Shoush Osama , Wright Jessica
Published: May 2015

Re‐consent in research, the asking for a new consent if there is a change in protocol or to confirm the expectations of participants in case of change, is an under‐explored issue. There is little clarity as to what changes should trigger re‐consent and what impact a re‐consent exercise has on participants and the research project. This article examines applicable policy statements and literature for the prevailing arguments for and against re‐consent in relation to longitudinal cohort studies, tissue banks and biobanks. Examples of re‐consent exercises are presented, triggers and non‐triggers for re‐consent discussed and the conflicting attitudes of commentators, participants and researchers highlighted. We acknowledge current practice and argue for a greater emphasis on ‘responsive autonomy,’ that goes beyond a one‐time consent and encourages greater communication between the parties involved. A balance is needed between respecting participants' wishes on how they want their data and samples used and enabling effective research to proceed.
Measuring the foundations of school readiness: Introducing a new questionnaire for teachers – The Brief Early Skills and Support Index (BESSI)
Authors: Hughes Claire , Daly Irenee , Foley Sarah , White Naomi , Devine Rory T.
Published: May 2015

Background

Early work on school readiness focused on academic skills. Recent research highlights the value of also including both children's social and behavioural competencies and family support.

Aims

Reflecting this broader approach, this study aimed to develop a new and brief questionnaire for teachers: The Brief Early Skills and Support Index (BESSI).

Sample

The main sample, recruited from the north‐west of England, included 1,456 children (49% male), aged 2.5 to 5.5 years. A second sample consisting of 258 children (44% male) aged 3 to 5.5 years was recruited to assess the test–retest reliability of the BESSI across a 1‐month interval.

Methods

Following development and pilot work with early years teachers, a streamlined (30 items) version of the BESSI was sent to 98 teachers and nursery staff, who rated the children in their class.

Results

The best‐fitting model included four latent factors: Three child factors (Behavioural Adjustment, Language and Cognition, and Daily Living Skills) and one Family Support factor. The three child factors exhibited measurement invariance across gender. All four factors showed good internal consistency and test–retest reliability. Structural equation modelling showed that (1) boys had more problems than girls on all three child factors; (2) older children showed better Language and Cognition and Daily Living Skills than younger children; and (3) children eligible for free school meals (an index of financial hardship) had more problems on all four latent factors. Family Support latent scores predicted all three child latent factors and accounted for their correlation with financial hardship.

Conclusions

The BESSI is a promising brief teacher–report screening tool that appears suitable for children aged 2.5 to 5.5 and provides a broader perspective upon school readiness than previous measures.
How to increase the benefits of cooperation: Effects of training in transactive communication on cooperative learning
Authors: Jurkowski Susanne , Hänze Martin
Published: May 2015

Background

Transactive communication means referring to and building on a learning partner's idea, by, for example, extending the partner's idea or interlinking the partner's idea with an idea of one's own. This transforms the partner's idea into a more elaborate one. Previous research found a positive relationship between students' transactive communication and their learning results when working in small groups.

Aims

To increase the benefits of cooperation, we developed and tested a module for training students in transactive communication. We assumed that this training would enhance students' transactive communication and also increase their knowledge acquisition during cooperative learning. Further, we distinguished between an actor's transactive communication and a learning partner's transactive communication and expected both to be positively associated with an actor's knowledge acquisition.

Sample

Participants were 80 university students.

Methods

In an experiment with pre‐ and post‐test measurements, transactive communication was measured by coding students' communication in a cooperative learning situation before training and in another cooperative learning situation after training. For the post‐test cooperative learning situation, knowledge was pre‐tested and post‐tested.

Results

Trained students outperformed controls in transactive communication and in knowledge acquisition. Positive training effects on actors' knowledge acquisition were partially mediated by the improved actors' transactive communication. Moreover, actors' knowledge acquisition was positively influenced by learning partners' transactive communication.

Conclusions

Results show a meaningful increase in the benefits of cooperation through the training in transactive communication. Furthermore, findings indicate that students benefit from both elaborating on their partner's ideas and having their own ideas elaborated on.
Long‐term results of a prospective randomized trial assessing the impact of re‐adaptation of the dorsolateral peritoneal layer after extended pelvic lymph node dissection and cystectomy
Authors: Vartolomei Mihai Dorin , Kiss Bernhard , Vidal Alvaro , Burkhard Fiona , Thalmann George N. , Roth Beat
Published: May 2015

Objective

To evaluate the long‐term oncological and functional outcomes of re‐adaptation of the dorsolateral peritoneal layer after pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) and cystectomy.

Patients and Methods

A randomized, single‐centre, single‐blinded, two‐arm trial was conducted on 200 consecutive patients who underwent PLND and cystectomy for bladder cancer (<cT4, cN0, cM0) between April 2006 and September 2009. Patients were randomized into two groups: group A with re‐adaptation of the dorsolateral peritoneal layer (n = 100; 73 male, 27 female; median [range] age 68 [35–86] years) and group B without re‐adapation (n = 100; 66 male, 34 female; median [range] age 65 [30–86] years). Regular postoperative follow‐up was performed at our outpatient clinic. The median follow‐up was 59 (3–100) months. Five patients were lost to follow‐up in group A and seven in group B. Bowel function was evaluated using the validated Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index questionnaire and an institutional questionnaire regarding post‐cystectomy outcome. Local recurrences and distal metastases were evaluated using computed tomography and bone scan at the regular follow‐up visits.

Results

There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of the rate of local (pelvic) recurrence (5/95 [5.3%] in group A; 7/93 [7.5%] in group B; P = 0.53), the rate of distant metastases (21/95 [22.1%] in group A; 23/93 [24.7%] in group B; P = 0.67), cancer‐specific survival (P = 0.37) or overall survival (P = 0.59). Group A had significantly better bowel function at 3 (P < 0.001), 6 (P < 0.006), 12 (P < 0.006) and 24 months (P = 0.04), and significantly less postoperative abdominal pain and bloating at 3 (P = 0.002) and 6 months (P = 0.01).

Conclusion

Re‐adaptation of the dorsolateral peritoneal layer after PLND and cystectomy has a beneficial long‐term impact on bowel function and postoperative pain without compromising oncological radicality.
Organizing Creativity: Creativity and Innovation under Constraints
Authors: Caniëls Marjolein C.J. , Rietzschel Eric F.
Published: May 2015

The best way of organizing creativity within organizations remains somewhat enigmatic to scholars, particularly when it comes to the role of constraints. On the one hand, creative organizations are often associated with freedom, autonomy, weak rules and few boundaries. On the other hand, several studies suggest that constraints, particularly design constraints, often stimulate creativity rather than suppress it. All in all, findings are mixed and inconclusive, and further research that explores this area of tension is required. The goal of this paper is twofold. Firstly, we introduce the topic of constraints and creativity, and raise some of the open questions in this field. By way of illustration, we report on a preliminary study about the role of constraints. Secondly, we set the stage for the contributions in this special issue on creativity and innovation under constraints, by identifying four central themes for further research. We subsequently outline the articles in this issue, and show how each of them contributes to one or more of these themes.
Synthesis and Anti‐neuroinflammatory Activity of Lactone Benzoyl Hydrazine and 2‐nitro‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐Indole Derivatives as p38α MAPK Inhibitors
Authors: Cheng Bao , Lin Yongsheng , Kuang Ming , Fang Sai , Gu Qiong , Xu Jun , Wang Laiyou
Published: May 2015

Inhibition of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) would allow significant modulation of the neuroinflammation condition associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Inspired from the pharmacophore of natural NF‐κB and p38α MAPK inhibitor 5,6‐dehydrokawain and p38α MAPK inhibitors 1a, 1‐pyrazolyl‐3‐(4‐((2‐anilinopyrimidin‐4‐yl)oxy)napththalen‐1‐yl)ureas, and 1b, a class of indole–pyrimidinyl compounds which were patented respectively, we designed, de novo synthesized, and evaluated two kinds of novel series of lactone benzoyl hydrazine derivatives and 2‐nitro‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐indole derivatives in an effort to develop pharmacologically tractable agents to alleviate the progression of AD. Fourteen of the seventeen synthesized compounds exhibit significant inhibitory effect on the nitric oxide (NO) production induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced microglia activation with IC50 less than the control 5,6‐dehydrokawain. Notably, compound 27, 6‐methoxy‐2‐nitro‐1‐(1H‐1, 2, 3‐triazol‐1‐yl)‐1H‐indole, with IC50 values of 1.6 μm can markedly inhibit p38α MAPK and NO release in BV‐2 microglial cells. The molecular dynamic (MD) simulations demonstrate that compound 27 inhibits p38α MAPK through binding to the Glu71 and Asp168 residues. Moreover, in vitro study shows that all compounds can easily cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and did not exhibit any acute cellular toxicity checked by MTT assay. These investigations provide promising chemical lead candidate as anti‐neuroinflammatory agents for AD.
Structural Basis of Non‐Steroidal Anti‐Inflammatory Drug Diclofenac Binding to Human Serum Albumin
Authors: Zhang Yao , Lee Philbert , Liang Shichu , Zhou Zuping , Wu Xiaoyang , Yang Feng , Liang Hong
Published: May 2015

Human serum albumin (HSA) is the most abundant protein in plasma, which plays a central role in drug pharmacokinetics because most compounds bound to HSA in blood circulation. To understand binding characterization of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs to HSA, we resolved the structure of diclofenac and HSA complex by X‐ray crystallography. HSA‐palmitic acid–diclofenac structure reveals two distinct binding sites for three diclofenac in HSA. One diclofenac is located at the IB subdomain, and its carboxylate group projects toward polar environment, forming hydrogen bond with one water molecule. The other two diclofenac molecules cobind in big hydrophobic cavity of the IIA subdomain without interactive association. Among them, one binds in main chamber of big hydrophobic cavity, and its carboxylate group forms hydrogen bonds with Lys199 and Arg218, as well as one water molecule, whereas another diclofenac binds in side chamber, its carboxylate group projects out cavity, forming hydrogen bond with Ser480.
An immediate peri‐implantitis induction model to study regenerative peri‐implantitis treatments
Authors: Park Shin‐Young , Kim Kyoung‐Hwa , Rhee Sang‐Hoon , Lee Jeong‐Cheol , Shin Seung‐Yun , Lee Yong‐Moo , Seol Yang‐Jo
Published: May 2015

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity of the immediate peri‐implantitis model to test regenerative therapies in peri‐implantitis defects.

Material and methods

In an immediate peri‐implantitis model in beagles, the mandibular third premolars were extracted, and dental implants were immediately placed in the distal extraction sockets. Without a healing period, experimental peri‐implantitis was induced by ligature placement for 3 months. In the conventional peri‐implantitis model, dental implants were placed in the healed mandibular fourth premolar region and were submerged for osseointegration. After 3 months of healing, peri‐implantitis induction was performed for another 3 months. After peri‐implantitis defects were formed in both models, regenerative therapy was performed in both models.

Results

After 3 months in the immediate model and 9 months in the conventional model, similarly shaped horizontal bone defects (wide and craterlike) were observed. However, buccal bone defects were deeply formed in the immediate model compared with the conventional model (6.02 ± 1.20 and 4.34 ± 0.86 mm, respectively; P = 0.009), but the amounts of bone regeneration were not significantly different between the models (P = 0.107). On the lingual side, re‐osseointegration was significantly greater in the conventional model than in the immediate model (0.72 ± 0.50 and 1.77 ± 0.87 mm, respectively; P = 0.009), although lingual bone defects were not significantly different between the models (P = 0.248).

Conclusions

Although the immediate peri‐implantitis model is challenging for regeneration, it may be able to replace the conventional model to study regenerative peri‐implantitis treatment due to its short experimental time and similar defect configuration.
Tube ileostomy for faecal diversion in elective distal colorectal anastomosis: a systematic review and pooled analysis
Authors: Nachiappan S. , Datta U. , Askari A. , Faiz O.
Published: May 2015

Aim

Tube ileostomy may be an alternative technique to loop ileostomy for protection of distal anastomosis, but its evidence base has not yet been established. This systematic review aims to evaluate the use of tube ileostomy and compare the outcomes associated with it.

Method

A systematic literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science and the Cochrane database was conducted. Studies reporting on elective left‐sided/colorectal anastomosis were included. Studies which reported on emergent surgery, small bowel anastomosis or tube ileostomy as a bridging procedure were excluded. The intra‐operative technique, postoperative management and complications were assessed. Outcome measures included anastomotic leak, reoperation and complications related to the stoma or tube ileostomy.

Results

Seven studies met the inclusion criteria. Three were case series with 101 patients and four were nonrandomized comparative studies with 665 patients. Pooled analyses of three comparative studies, comparing tube ileostomy (n = 278) with loop ileostomy (n = 254), revealed no significant differences in anastomotic leak rates (pooled OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.41–1.75; I2 = 0%, P = 0.43).

Conclusion

There is a re‐emergence of interest in the use of tube ileostomy to defunction a distal anastomosis. Pooled analyses of studies comparing tube ileostomy with loop ileostomy do not show statistically significant differences in anastomotic leak rates. Further refinement of this technique and randomized controlled studies are necessary for this technique to be routinely taken up by surgeons.
The Role of Semantic Clustering in Optimal Memory Foraging
Authors: Montez Priscilla , Thompson Graham , Kello Christopher T.
Published: May 2015

Recent studies of semantic memory have investigated two theories of optimal search adopted from the animal foraging literature: Lévy flights and marginal value theorem. Each theory makes different simplifying assumptions and addresses different findings in search behaviors. In this study, an experiment is conducted to test whether clustering in semantic memory may play a role in evidence for both theories. Labeled magnets and a whiteboard were used to elicit spatial representations of semantic knowledge about animals. Category recall sequences from a separate experiment were used to trace search paths over the spatial representations of animal knowledge. Results showed that spatial distances between animal names arranged on the whiteboard were correlated with inter‐response intervals (IRIs) during category recall, and distributions of both dependent measures approximated inverse power laws associated with Lévy flights. In addition, IRIs were relatively shorter when paths first entered animal clusters, and longer when they exited clusters, which is consistent with marginal value theorem. In conclusion, area‐restricted searches over clustered semantic spaces may account for two different patterns of results interpreted as supporting two different theories of optimal memory foraging.
Offshore Foreign Direct Investment, Capital Round‐Tripping, and Corruption: Empirical Analysis of Russian Regions
Authors: Ledyaeva Svetlana , Karhunen Päivi , Kosonen Riitta , Whalley John
Published: May 2015

Recent economic geography research has identified the round‐tripping of capital from emerging economies to offshore financial centers (OFCs) and back as foreign direct investment (FDI) as a central element of the global offshore FDI network. However, the factors behind this phenomenon are not yet fully understood. Our study develops a general framework that conceptualizes the phenomenon of round‐trip investment. In particular, we argue that secrecy arbitrage, defined as interplay of onshore corruption and offshore secrecy, largely explains round‐trip investment between onshore jurisdictions and OFCs. First, we argue that part of the round‐trip FDI consists of proceeds from corruption, which is laundered in OFCs and reinvested back to the location of origin. Second, we maintain that the secrecy dimension of the OFC also motivates the round‐tripping of licit capital, as businesses use the secrecy provided by OFCs to hide their true identities from corrupt authorities in the home location. To test the validity of our argument about onshore corruption as a driver for round‐trip investment, we empirically analyze firm‐level data on the distribution of offshore FDI (which, we argue, is largely round‐trip) across Russian regions. Our empirical findings confirm that FDI from OFCs is positively associated with host region corruption, and this relationship is stronger for OFCs with a higher secrecy score. Hence, we conclude that round‐trip FDI is strongly motivated by the interplay between onshore corruption and offshore secrecy.
The Financial Secrecy Index: Shedding New Light on the Geography of Secrecy
Authors: Cobham Alex , Janský Petr , Meinzer Markus
Published: May 2015

Both academic research and public policy debate around tax havens and offshore finance typically suffer from a lack of definitional consistency. Unsurprisingly then, there is little agreement about which jurisdictions ought to be considered as tax havens—or which policy measures would result in their not being so considered. In this article we explore and make operational an alternative concept, that of a secrecy jurisdiction and present the findings of the resulting Financial Secrecy Index (FSI). The FSI ranks countries and jurisdictions according to their contribution to opacity in global financial flows, revealing a quite different geography of financial secrecy from the image of small island tax havens that may still dominate popular perceptions and some of the literature on offshore finance. Some major (secrecy‐supplying) economies now come into focus. Instead of a binary division between tax havens and others, the results show a secrecy spectrum, on which all jurisdictions can be situated, and that adjustment for the scale of business is necessary in order to compare impact propensity. This approach has the potential to support more precise and granular research findings and policy recommendations.
The Prognostic Utility of Echo‐Estimated Left Ventricular End‐Diastolic Pressure–Volume Relationship in Stable Coronary Artery Disease: The Heart and Soul Study
Authors: Mishra Rakesh K. , Tietjens Jeremy , Regan Mathilda , Whooley Mary A. , Schiller Nelson B.
Published: May 2015

Background

While changes in the left ventricular end‐diastolic pressure–volume relationship (LV‐EDPVR) can be estimated using echocardiography, their prognostic utility in stable coronary artery disease (CAD) is unknown.

Methods

Using echo‐estimated LV end‐diastolic volume index and diastolic function category, the relative position of the LV‐EDPVR was defined in 901 participants with stable CAD as: (1) left‐shifted, (2) right‐shifted, or (3) intermediate. We then evaluated the association of LV‐EDPVR position relative to the intermediate category with time to hospitalization for heart failure (HF) or cardiovascular (CV) death using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

During 7.0 ± 3.1 years of follow‐up, there were 207 admissions for HF or CV deaths. Both leftward and rightward shifts of LV‐EDPVR were associated with a significantly higher risk of HF or CV death (HR 1.73, 95% CI 1.15–2.62 and HR 6.75, 95% CI 4.02–11.31, respectively). In multivariable‐adjusted models, these associations were attenuated but remained significant (HR 1.66, 95% CI 1.08–2.55 for left‐shifted and HR 4.19, 95% CI 2.32–7.55 for right‐shifted). The association of LV‐EDPVR with HF or CV death was no longer significant after inclusion of N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide level as a covariate.

Conclusions

In stable CAD, echo‐estimated leftward and rightward shifts in the LV‐EDPVR are associated with HF and CV death. The loss of these associations after adjustment for N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide level suggests that echo‐estimated LV‐EDPVR captures changes in LV filling pressure at any given LV end‐diastolic volume.
Population diversity in salmon: linkages among response, genetic and life history diversity
Authors: Braun Douglas C. , Moore Jonathan W. , Candy John , Bailey Richard E.
Published: May 2015

Response diversity and asynchrony are important for stability and resilience of meta‐populations, however little is known about the mechanisms that might drive such processes. In salmon populations, response diversity and asynchrony have been linked to the stability of their meta‐populations and the fisheries that integrate across them. We examined how population diversity influenced response diversity and asynchrony in 42 populations of Chinook salmon from the Fraser River, British Columbia. We examined diversity in the survival responses to large‐scale ocean climate variables for populations that differed in life history. Different life‐histories responded differently to ocean environmental conditions. For instance, an increase of offshore temperature was associated with decreased survival for a population with ocean rearing juveniles but increased survival for a population with stream rearing juveniles. In a second analysis, we examined asynchrony in abundance between populations, which we then correlated with life history, spatial, and genetic diversity. Populations that were more genetically distant had the most different population dynamics. Collectively, these results suggest that fine‐scale population diversity can contribute to the asynchrony and response diversity that underpins the stability of fisheries or metapopulation dynamics, and emphasize the need to manage and conserve this scale of population diversity.
Patterns of island treeline elevation – a global perspective
Authors: Irl Severin D. H. , Anthelme Fabien , Harter David E. V. , Jentsch Anke , Lotter Elisabeth , Steinbauer Manuel J. , Beierkuhnlein Carl
Published: May 2015

Treeline research has strongly focused on mountain systems on the mainland. However, island treelines offer the opportunity to contribute to the global framework on treeline elevation due to their island‐specific attributes such as isolation, small area, low species richness and relative youth. We hypothesize that, similar to the mainland, latitude‐driven temperature variation is the most important determinant of island treeline elevation on a global scale. To test this hypothesis, we compared mainland with island treeline elevations. Then we focused 1) on the global effects of latitude, 2) on the regional effects of island type (continental vs oceanic islands) and 3) the local effects of several specific island characteristics (age, area, maximum island elevation, isolation and plant species richness). We collected a global dataset of islands (n = 86) by applying a stratified design using GoogleEarth and the Global Island Database. For each island we extracted data on latitude and local characteristics. Treeline elevation decreased from the mainland through continental to oceanic islands. Island treeline elevation followed a hump‐shaped latitudinal distribution, which is fundamentally different from the mainland double‐hump. Higher maximum island elevation generated higher treeline elevation and was found the best single predictor of island treeline elevation, even better than latitude. Lower island treeline elevation may be the result of a low mass elevation effect (MEE) influencing island climates and an increasingly impoverished species pool but also trade wind inversion‐associated aridity. The maximum island elevation effect possibly results from an increasing mass elevation effect (MEE) with increasing island elevation but also range shifts during climatic fluctuations and the summit syndrome (i.e. high wind speeds and poor soils in peak regions). Investigating islands in treeline research has enabled disentangling the global effect of latitude from regional and local effects and, at least for islands, a comprehensive quantification of the MEE.
Evaluating methods to quantify spatial variation in the velocity of biological invasions
Authors: Tisseuil Clément , Gryspeirt Aiko , Lancelot Renaud , Pioz Maryline , Liebhold Andrew , Gilbert Marius
Published: May 2015

Invading species rarely spread homogeneously through a landscape and invasion patterns typically display irregular frontal boundaries as the invasion progresses through space. Those irregular patterns are generally produced by local environmental factors that may slow or accelerate movement of the frontal boundary. While there is an abundant literature on species distribution modelling methods that quantify local suitability for species establishment, comparatively few studies have examined methods for measuring the local velocity of invasions that can then be statistically analysed in relation to spatially variable environmental factors. Previous studies have used simulations to compare different methods for estimating the overall rate of spread of an invasion. We adopted a similar approach of simulating invasions that resemble two real case‐studies, both in terms of their spatial resolution (i.e. considering the size of one cell as one km) and their spatial extent (> 600 000 km²). Simulations were sampled to compare how different methods used to measure local spread rate, namely the neighbouring, nearest distance and Delaunay methods, perform for spatio‐temporal comparisons. We varied the assessment using three levels of complexity of the spatio‐temporal pattern of invasion, three sample sizes (500, 1000 and 2000 points), three different spatial sampling patterns (stratified, random, aggregated), three interpolation methods (generalized linear model, kriging, thin plate spline regression) and two spatio‐temporal modelling structures (trend surface analysis and boundary displacement), resulting in a total of 486 different scenarios. The thin plate spline regression interpolation method, in combination with trend surface analysis, was found to provide the most robust local spread rate quantification as it was able to reliably accommodate different sampling conditions and invasion patterns. This best approach was successfully applied to two case‐studies, the invasion of France by the horse‐chestnut leafminerCameraria ohridellaand by the bluetongue virus, generally in agreement with previously published values of spread rates. Potential avenues for further research are discussed.
Absence of an association between socioeconomic indicators and traumatic dental injury: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Corrêa‐Faria Patrícia , Martins Carolina C. , Bönecker Marcelo , Paiva Saul M. , Ramos‐Jorge Maria Letícia , Pordeus Isabela A.
Published: May 2015

Objective

The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and search for scientific evidence on the association between socioeconomic indicators and traumatic dental injury (TDI) in the primary dentition.

Methodology

The PubMed, ISI, LILACS, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases were searched for articles addressing possible associations between socioeconomic indicators and TDI in the primary teeth in journals dating from the inception of the databases through to December 2013. Two independent reviewers performed data extraction and analyzed the quality of the studies. Meta‐analysis was undertaken. Pooled estimates were calculated with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and odds ratios (OR).

Results

Sixteen articles were included in the systematic review. Children from families with household income less than two times average salary (U$ 592) (OR: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.66–0.90) or more than three times the average salary (U$ 888) (OR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.65–0.89) had a significantly lower chance of having TDI in the primary dentition. TDI was not associated with socioeconomic status (high vs low – OR: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.43–1.36; high vs medium – OR: 1.03; 95% CI: 0.72–1.48; medium vs low – OR: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.42–1.19), house ownership (owned vs rented – OR: 1.28; 95% CI: 0.98–1.66), mother's schooling (OR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.74–1.08), or father's schooling (OR: 1.01; 95% CI: 0.62–2.74).

Conclusion

The scientific evidence demonstrates that socioeconomic indicators are not associated with TDI in the primary dentition. The evidence of an association between a low income and TDI is weak. In general, studies had low risk of bias. Further prospective cohort studies are needed to confirm this association.
Early adenosine release contributes to hypoxia‐induced disruption of stimulus‐induced sharp wave‐ripple complexes in rat hippocampal area CA3
Authors: Jarosch Marlene S. , Gebhardt Christine , Fano Silvia , Huchzermeyer Christine , ul Haq Rizwan , Behrens Christoph J. , Heinemann Uwe
Published: May 2015

We investigated the effects of hypoxia on sharp wave‐ripple complex (SPW‐R) activity and recurrent epileptiform discharges in rat hippocampal slices, and the mechanisms underlying block of this activity. Oxygen levels were measured using Clark‐style oxygen sensor microelectrodes. In contrast to recurrent epileptiform discharges, oxygen consumption was negligible during SPW‐R activity. These network activities were reversibly blocked when oxygen levels were reduced to 20% or less for 3 min. The prolongation of hypoxic periods to 6 min caused reversible block of SPW‐Rs during 20% oxygen and irreversible block when 0% oxygen (anoxia) was applied. In contrast, recurrent epileptiform discharges were more resistant to prolonged anoxia and almost fully recovered after 6 min of anoxia. SPW‐Rs were unaffected by the application of 1‐butyl‐3‐(4‐methylphenylsulfonyl) urea, a blocker of KATP channels, but they were blocked by activation of adenosine A1 receptors. In support of a modulatory function of adenosine, the amplitude and incidence of SPW‐Rs were increased during application of the A1 receptor antagonist 8‐cyclopentyl‐1,3‐dipropylxanthine (DPCPX). Interestingly, hypoxia decreased the frequency of miniature excitatory post‐synaptic currents in CA3 pyramidal cells, an effect that was converted into increased frequency by the adenosine A1 agonist DPCPX. In addition, DPCPX also delayed the onset of hypoxia‐mediated block of SPW‐Rs. Our data suggest that early adenosine release during hypoxia induces a decrease in pre‐synaptic glutamate release and that both might contribute to transient block of SPW‐Rs during hypoxia/anoxia in area CA3.
A quantification of the relationship between neuronal responses in the rat rostral ventromedial medulla and noxious stimulation‐evoked withdrawal reflexes
Authors: Devonshire I. M. , Kwok C. H. T. , Suvik A. , Haywood A. R. , Cooper A. H. , Hathway G. J.
Published: May 2015

The rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) regulates a range of involuntary behaviours but is most often associated with nociception via the action of pronociceptive ON cells and antinociceptive OFF cells. The phasic responses of ON and OFF cells determine whether or not incoming noxious signals provoke a withdrawal reflex, and previous studies have suggested that reflex RVM activity patterns actively shape motor output. Here we challenged the model by using juvenile rats, which are known to exhibit markedly different reflex responses compared with adults. By recording single‐cell activity in the RVM and the electromyography responses of hindlimb flexor muscles to noxious thermal stimulation we found that the juvenile reflex had a shorter onset latency, was larger in amplitude and exhibited a decreased rise time compared with the adult reflex. The responses of ON and OFF cells faithfully tracked the shorter onset latency of the reflex by also responding earlier and, thus, still preceded the reflex. However, neither the reflex amplitude nor the ongoing response profile was predicted by the firing rate of RVM cells in either age group. Instead we found a close correspondence between RVM activity and the reflex only during the initiation of the response. Furthermore, the short rise time of the juvenile reflex was reflected in higher rates of change of both ON and OFF cell firing. Our data suggest that the RVM is associated only with the initiation of reflexes and does not shape ongoing muscle activity, which is more likely to be subserved by downstream spinal processes.
Traumatic communication of the extensor carpi radialis tendon sheath and antebrachiocarpal joint in two horses
Authors: Walker W. T. , Ducharme N. G. , Reesink H. L.
Published: May 2015

Two horses were examined due to lacerations at the level of the craniodistal antebrachii. Further evaluation of the lacerations revealed communication with the extensor carpi radialis tendon sheath and potentially the antebrachiocarpal joint. Positive contrast arthrography performed via the palmarolateral pouch of the antebrachiocarpal joint was used to diagnose communication with the extensor carpi radialis tendon sheath. Both the joints and tendon sheaths were treated aggressively with surgical debridement and lavage, followed by post operative medical management and rehabilitation. Both horses made a full recovery and are performing in their intended level of use with acceptable cosmetic results. Traumatic communication with the carpal joints should be considered when evaluating lacerations involving the forelimb extensor tendon sheaths.
Fibroblast‐specific upregulation of Flightless I impairs wound healing
Authors: Turner Christopher T. , Waters James M. , Jackson Jessica E. , Arkell Ruth M. , Cowin Allison J.
Published: May 2015

The cytoskeletal protein Flightless (Flii) is a negative regulator of wound healing. Upregulation of Flii is associated with impaired migration, proliferation and adhesion of both fibroblasts and keratinocytes. Importantly, Flii translocates from the cytoplasm to the nucleus in response to wounding in fibroblasts but not keratinocytes. This cell‐specific nuclear translocation of Flii suggests that Flii may directly regulate gene expression in fibroblasts, providing one potential mechanism of action for Flii in the wound healing response. To determine whether the tissue‐specific upregulation of Flii in fibroblasts was important for the observed inhibitory effects of Flii on wound healing, an inducible fibroblast‐specific Flii overexpressing mouse model was generated. The inducible ROSA26 system allowed the overexpression of Flii in a temporal and tissue‐specific manner in response to tamoxifen treatment. Wound healing in the inducible mice was impaired, with wounds at day 7 postwounding significantly larger than those from non‐inducible controls. There was also reduced collagen maturation, increased myofibroblast infiltration and elevated inflammation. The impaired healing response was similar in magnitude to that observed in mice with non‐tissue‐specific upregulation of Flii suggesting that fibroblast‐derived Flii may have an important role in the wound healing response.