bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large Unruptured Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm Dissecting into Interventricular Septum and Presenting as a Complex Myocardial Cystic Mass
Authors: Chikkabasavaiah Nagamani Alur , Patra Soumya , Basavappa Ramesh , Puttegowda Beeresh , Khateeb Syed Tanveer Akmal , Nanjappa Manjunath Cholenahally
Published: May 2014

Unruptured aneurysm of sinus of Valsalva (SOV) is extremely rare. They may be asymptomatic and diagnosed incidentally or can present with either fatal outcome following rupture or manifest acutely with compression of surrounding structures. Dissection of unruptured aneurysm of left SOV into interventricular septum (IVS) and presenting as intramyocardial mass is not reported in the literature. We are reporting a case of 21‐year‐old man who was referred to us following a seizure episode and was incidentally diagnosed with aneurysm of left SOV dissecting into IVS. Multimodality imaging confirmed the diagnosis. He successfully underwent surgical repair and was asymptomatic during follow‐up.
Prognostic Implications of Tissue Doppler Imaging–Derived E/Ea Ratio in Acute Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Santas Enrique , García‐Blas Sergio , Miñana Gema , Sanchis Juan , Bodí Vicent , Escribano David , Muñoz Jaime , Chorro Francisco J , Núñez Julio
Published: May 2014

Background

Tissue Doppler–derived transmitral to mitral annular early diastolic velocity ratio (E/Ea), as a noninvasive estimation of left ventricular (LV) filling pressures, is a strong prognosticator in various cardiac scenarios including chronic heart failure; nevertheless, its utility for risk stratification in the whole spectrum of acute heart failure (AHF) patients remains elusive. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the association between E/Ea ratio and 1‐year mortality in nonselected patients with AHF.

Methods

The study included 417 consecutive patients admitted for AHF. Twenty‐two patients were excluded due to nonaccurate Ea measurements, leaving the final sample to be 395 patients. E‐wave, septal, and lateral Ea velocities were measured following initial stabilization and according to current recommendations. The association of mean E/Ea ratio with all‐cause mortality was assessed using Cox regression analysis.

Results

At a median follow‐up of 306 days (interquartile range, 118–564), 89 deaths (22.5%) were registered. Mean age and E/Ea ratio were 72 ± 11.5 and 20 ± 3. Proportion of LV ejection fraction ≥50% was 47%. In multivariate analysis, after adjusting for well‐known prognostic factors, including natriuretic peptides, E/Ea ratio was linearly associated with an increase risk of all‐cause mortality (HR 1.04, 95% CI 1.03–1.05; P < 0.001, per increase in one unit of E/Ea). The threshold of risk was identified above 20. No significant interactions among the most important subgroups were found.

Conclusion

In AHF patients, tissue Doppler imaging derived E/Ea ratio is independently associated with an increased risk of all‐cause mortality.
Fetal Echocardiographic Characteristics of Fused Heart in Thoracopagus Conjoined Twins
Authors: Wu Yu , Lv Qing , Xie Ming‐Xing , Wan Lin‐Yuan , Ren Ping‐Ping , Ge Andrew , Ge Shuping
Published: May 2014

Conjoined twins (CT) are rare with possible serious malformations in which soft tissue, bone, or some organs are joined in utero. The extent of cardiac fusion and intracardiac anatomy of CT determine the viability, natural history, and outcome of potential surgical intervention. Early prenatal diagnosis and assessment may provide a window of opportunity to counsel the family for their informed decision on the pregnancy and to plan for prenatal and perinatal care. In this report, we describe a case of thoracopagus twins diagnosed by fetal echocardiography at 23‐week gestation. The 2 hearts fused at the atrial and ventricular levels. The outcome and review of literature on fetal echocardiographic characteristics of this malformation are discussed.
Impact of Asymptomatic Acute Cellular Rejection on Left Ventricle Myocardial Function Evaluated by Means of Two‐Dimensional Speckle Tracking Echocardiography in Heart Transplant Recipients
Authors: Ruiz Ortiz Martín , Peña María Luisa , Mesa Dolores , Delgado Mónica , Romo Elías , Santisteban Marta , Puentes Miguel , López Granados Amador , Castillo Juan Carlos , Arizón José María , de Lezo José Suárez
Published: May 2014

Background

Our objective was to evaluate the impact of asymptomatic acute cellular rejection (ACR) in left ventricular myocardial strain in heart transplant (HT) recipients by means of two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2DSTE).

Methods

From September 1, 2009 to December 15, 2010 a conventional echocardiography and 2DSTE exam was performed on all consecutive HT recipients in their first year posttransplantation within 3 hours of the surveillance endomyocardial biopsies, as well as on 14 healthy controls. The association of strain echocardiographic variables with different grades of ACR was investigated.

Results

Of the 78 studies performed 4 ± 3 months after HT in 20 patients, 32 studies were coincident with grade 0R rejection, 41 with grade 1R, and 5 with grade 2R. Significantly lower values of average radial strain were found with higher grades of ACR (29.1 ± 7.7%, 23.2 ± 8.5%, and 14.3 ± 8.8% for grades 0R, 1R, and 2R of ACR, P = 0.001). Average deformation was similar for controls versus transplanted patients, in the absence of acute rejection: radial 29.1 ± 10.0% versus 29.1 ± 7.7%, P = 0.98; circumferential −19.3 ± 3.2% versus −20.2 ± 5.9%, P = 0.62; and longitudinal −20.7 ± 4.1% versus −18.5 ± 5.4%, P = 0.19. An average radial strain <25% presented 100% sensitivity, 48% specificity, 6% positive predictive value, and 100% negative predictive value for the presence of 2R rejection (area under the curve 0.80, IC 95% 0.60–0.99, P = 0.048).

Conclusion

In this study, HT recipients showed significantly lower values of average radial left ventricle strain, evaluated by means of 2DSTE, with the presence of ACR.
An Unusual Appearance of Fibrin Sheaths after Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator Removal Because of Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Lacalzada Juan , García‐González Martín J. , de la Rosa Alejandro , González Esther , Díaz Francisco J. , Laynez Ignacio
Published: May 2014

Mini‐Abstract

The radiological detection of “fibrin sheaths” after removing central catheters is a well‐known delayed complication. “Fibrin sheaths” after implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) removal because of infective endocarditis is unusual. We report the case of a 26‐year‐old woman with an ICD who developed infective endocarditis. A transesophageal echocardiography showed an image of “fibrin sleeve” on the superior vena cava (SVC). The patient had no history of SVC central catheter placement. The coexistence of vegetation and “fibrin sheaths” at different moments, as in our case, requires an awareness of this situation for differential diagnosis and treatment.
The Association between Aortic Distensibility and Coronary Flow Reserve in Newly Diagnosed Diabetic Patients
Authors: Yuksel Kalkan Gulhan , Gur Mustafa , Eksi Haydardedeoğlu Filiz , Kırım Sinan , Baykan Ahmet Oytun , Kuloğlu Osman , Uçar Hakan , Sahin Durmuş Yildiray , Elbasan Zafer , Seker Taner , Turkoğlu Caner , Yildirim Arafat , Cayli Murat
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Aortic distensibility (AD) is an important parameter affecting coronary hemodynamics. Coronary flow velocity reserve (CFVR) is a reliable marker of coronary endothelial function in diabetic patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between AD and CFVR in newly diagnosed diabetic patients.

Method

We studied 77 patients with newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus (DM) and 30 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy control subjects. CFVR was calculated as the hyperemic to resting coronary diastolic velocities ratio by using transthoracic echocardiography. Pulse pressure (PP) and AD were calculated.

Results

Fasting blood glucose, HbA1c and PP were significantly higher in patients with diabetes (P < 0.001, P < 0.001 and P = 0.009, respectively). Other clinical and demographical characteristics, laboratory findings and echocardiographic findings were similar in both groups (P > 0.05, for all). The measurement of CFVR and AD in patients with diabetes were significantly lower compared with the controls (P < 0.001 and P = 0.001, respectively). CFVR was significantly negatively correlated with age, body mass index, HbA1c, systolic blood pressure, and PP, while significantly positively correlated with AD (P < 0.05, for all). Multivariate regression analysis showed that only AD (β = 0.485, P < 0.0001) and HbA1c (β = −0.362, P < 0.0001) were independently associated with CFVR. The cutoff value of AD obtained by the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was 2.44 for the prediction of impaired CFVR.

Conclusion

Aortic distensibility and HbA1c were independently associated with CFVR. The decrease in AD may be used as a marker of impaired coronary microcirculation in asymptomatic diabetic patients.
Fine‐tuning of defences and counter‐defences in a specialised plant–herbivore system
Authors: RASMANN SERGIO
Published: May 2014

1. The plant–herbivore arms race has been postulated to be a major driver for generating biological and biochemical diversity on Earth. Herbivore feeding is reduced by the production of chemical and physical barriers, but increases plant resistance against subsequent attack. Accordingly, specialisation is predicted to be an outcome of herbivores being able to circumvent plant‐induced defences.

2. Using a specialised plant–herbivore system, in which adult chrysomelid beetles (Chrysochus auratus) feed on leaves and larvae feed on roots of dogbane (Apocynum spp.), this study investigated whether root latex and cardenolides are effective against the soil‐dwelling larvae, and whether such defences could be circumvented by the herbivore.

3. Across two Apocynum species, C. auratus larvae were not affected by latex production or cardenolide amounts and diversity. By contrast, cardenolide apolarity was detrimental to larval growth. Yet larval feeding decreased average root cardenolide apolarity in A. cannabinum and larvae performed better on those plants. Finally, above‐ground induction rendered the plants more toxic by increasing root cardenolide apolarity and maintaining it, even during subsequent larval herbivory.

4. Therefore, the intimate relationship and interaction between Chrysochus and Apocynum are maintained by a delicate balance of herbivore manipulation and plant chemical induction.
Can conservation‐oriented, captive breeding limit behavioural and growth divergence between offspring of wild and captive origin Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)?
Authors: Wilke Nathan F. , O'Reilly Patrick T. , MacDonald Danielle , Fleming Ian A.
Published: May 2014

Captive rearing is being used increasingly to maintain demographics and genetic diversity of threatened fish populations and species, but its effectiveness can be hindered by domestication, that is, inadvertent selection for performance in captivity at the cost of that in the wild. Some captive rearing programmes have begun to take steps to limit such domestication, but the results are ambiguous, as the degree of generational exposure to captivity is often difficult to control. Using an endangered population of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) currently undergoing conservation‐oriented captive rearing, we tested for domestication effects on dominance (dyadic trials) and growth (seminatural stream channels with differing densities and group proportions) of juvenile offspring of wild and captive origin parents. Pedigree data afforded the ability to compare these effects among three specific study groups: wild, single‐generation captives and two to three generation captives. Our results indicate that, despite conservation breeding practices, a divergence in growth can occur in as little as one generation without divergence in dominance behaviour. Further, evidence suggests that trait divergence did not increase with generations in captivity. Given the experimental design, results and supporting literature, we conclude that this contemporary divergence is likely genetic and driven by a combination of factors, including variation in selective histories influencing behaviour.
Effect of therapeutic plasma exchange on plasma levels of oxidative biomarkers in a patient with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Gangemi Sebastiano , Allegra Alessandro , Sciarrone Paolo , Russo Sabina , Cristani Mariateresa , Gerace Demetrio , Saitta Salvatore , Alonci Andrea , Musolino Caterina
Published: May 2014

Background

The role of oxidative stress in the initiation and progression of endothelial damage in thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) syndrome has been the subject of much speculation in the recent past.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to measure the concentration of plasma advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs), advanced glycation end products (AGEs), and carbonyl groups (CG) as markers of oxidative stress in plasma of a patient with TTP during the course of the disease until recovery and to evaluate the effect of plasmapheresis (PE) on these biomarkers.

Materials and methods

The study consisted of plasma analysis of the patient, and 23 healthy subjects served as controls. In the patient with TTP, AOPP, AGE, and CG analysis was performed before and after each PE at the days +1 (Tα), +2, +4, +6, +10, +9, and +17 after the last plasmapheresis (Tω).

Results

Plasma concentrations of AOPPs were increased in the acute phase of TTP, and at Tα, the patient had AOPPs levels higher than 99°‰ of controls. AOPPs decreased in the recovery phase, and at Tω, their values were between 84° and 85°‰ of controls. No significant difference was found in AOPP levels before and after each PE. No significant differences for AGEs or CG concentrations were found at Tα with respect to the control group, while only a trend was observed for reduction of plasma AGEs after each plasmapheresis.

Conclusion

Our data seem to confirm the hypothesis that oxidative stress is a critical component of the pathogenesis of TTP.
Genomic analysis of clonal eosinophils by CGH arrays reveals new genetic regions involved in chronic eosinophilia
Authors: Arefi Maryam , Robledo Cristina , Peñarrubia María J. , de Coca Alfonso García , Cordero Miguel , Hernández‐Rivas Jesús M. , García Juan Luis
Published: May 2014

To assess the presence of genetic imbalances in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), 38 patients with chronic eosinophilia were studied by array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH): seven had chronic myelogenous leukaemia (CML), BCR‐ABL1 positive, nine patients had myeloproliferative neoplasia Ph− (MPN‐Ph−), three had a myeloid neoplasm associated with a PDGFRA rearrangement, and the remaining two cases were Lymphoproliferative T neoplasms associated with eosinophilia. In addition, 17 patients had a secondary eosinophilia and were used as controls. Eosinophilic enrichment was carried out in all cases. Genomic imbalances were found in 76% of all MPN patients. Losses on 20q were the most frequent genetic abnormality in MPNs (32%), affected the three types of MPN studied. This study also found losses at 11q13.3 in 26% of patients with MPN‐Ph− and in 19p13.11 in two of the three patients with an MPN associated with a PDGFRA rearrangement. In addition, 29% of patients with CML had losses on 8q24. In summary, aCGH revealed clonality in eosinophils in most MPNs, suggesting that it could be a useful technique for defining clonality in these diseases. The presence of genetic losses in new regions could provide new insights into the knowledge of these MPN associated with eosinophilia.
Outcomes in RBC transfusion‐dependent patients with Low‐/Intermediate‐1‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes with isolated deletion 5q treated with lenalidomide: a subset analysis from the MDS‐004 study
Authors: Giagounidis Aristoteles , Mufti Ghulam J. , Mittelman Moshe , Sanz Guillermo , Platzbecker Uwe , Muus Petra , Selleslag Dominik , Beyne‐Rauzy Odile , te Boekhorst Peter , del Cañizo Consuelo , Guerci‐Bresler Agnès , Nilsson Lars , Lübbert Michael , Quesnel Bruno , Ganser Arnold , Bowen David , Schlegelberger Brigitte , Göhring Gudrun , Fu Tommy , Benettaib Bouchra , Hellström‐Lindberg Eva , Fenaux Pierre
Published: May 2014

Objective

A subset analysis of the randomised, phase 3, MDS‐004 study to evaluate outcomes in patients with International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS)‐defined Low‐/Intermediate (Int)‐1‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) with isolated del(5q).

Methods

Patients received lenalidomide 10 mg/d (days 1–21; n = 47) or 5 mg/d (days 1–28; n = 43) on 28‐d cycles or placebo (n = 45). From the placebo and lenalidomide 5 mg groups, 84% and 58% of patients, respectively, crossed over to lenalidomide 5 or 10 mg at 16 wk, respectively.

Results

Rates of red blood cell‐transfusion independence (RBC‐TI) ≥182 d were higher in the lenalidomide 10 mg (57.4%; P < 0.0001) and 5 mg (37.2%; P = 0.0001) groups vs. placebo (2.2%). Cytogenetic response rates (major + minor responses) were 56.8% (P < 0.0001), 23.1% (P = 0.0299) and 0%, respectively. Two‐year cumulative risk of acute myeloid leukaemia progression was 12.6%, 17.4% and 16.7% in the lenalidomide 10 mg, 5 mg, and placebo groups, respectively. In a 6‐month landmark analysis, overall survival was longer in lenalidomide‐treated patients with RBC‐TI ≥182 d vs. non‐responders (P = 0.0072). The most common grade 3–4 adverse event was myelosuppression.

Conclusions

These data support the clinical benefits and acceptable safety profile of lenalidomide in transfusion‐dependent patients with IPSS‐defined Low‐/Int‐1‐risk MDS with isolated del(5q).
Target hematologic values in the management of essential thrombocythemia and polycythemia vera
Authors: Hernández‐Boluda Juan Carlos , Gómez Montse
Published: May 2014

Treatment of essential thrombocythemia (ET) and polycythemia vera (PV) is aimed at preventing vascular complications, which are the main cause of morbidity and mortality in these diseases. Over the years, clinical trials have demonstrated that the incidence of thrombosis and bleeding can be reduced by controlling the blood cell counts, but the target hematological levels have varied across the studies. In this article, we review the evidence supporting the use of predefined target hematologic values for the management of ET and PV in routine clinical practice. At present, the recommended target hematocrit in PV is below 45%, regardless of the patients' risk profile. Concerning platelet counts, no direct correlation has been demonstrated with thrombotic risk in either ET or PV. Thus, although cytoreductive treatment reduces the rate of vascular complications in high‐risk patients, no particular threshold of the platelet counts has been shown to be more protective against thrombosis. Extreme thrombocytosis is a risk factor for bleeding, particularly when aspirin or anagrelide are given. Leukocytosis at baseline or during follow‐up appears to be a risk factor for thrombosis, mostly in high‐risk patients. However, the clinical benefit of strictly controlling this parameter is not yet established. Finally, standardized definitions of response to cytoreductive treatment in ET and PV have recently been published. Nevertheless, they have been produced to compare the efficacy of new therapies in clinical trials, whereas its relevance in clinical practice has been questioned in retrospective studies showing that such response definitions do not correlate with the patients' clinical outcome.
Motor ‘surround inhibition’ is not correlated with activity in surround muscles
Authors: Kassavetis Panagiotis , Sadnicka Anna , Saifee Tabish A. , Belvisi Daniele , van den Bos Mehdi , Pareés Isabel , Kojovic Maja , Rothwell John C. , Edwards Mark J.
Published: May 2014

Surround inhibition (SI) is a neural process that has been extensively investigated in the sensory system and has been recently probed in the motor system. Muscle‐specific modulation of corticospinal excitability at the onset of an isolated finger movement has been assumed to reflect the presence of SI in the motor system. This study attempted to characterise this phenomenon in a large cohort of normal volunteers and investigate its relationship with muscle activity in the hand. Corticospinal excitability of the pathways projecting to three hand muscles [first dorsal interosseus (FDI), abductor pollicis brevis (APB) and abductor digiti minimi (ADM)] and electromyographic (EMG) activity of the same muscles were assessed in 31 healthy volunteers during an isolated index finger movement. In the agonist FDI muscle both corticospinal excitability and EMG activity were found to be increased at the onset of the movement (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). On the contrary, in the surround ADM, there was dissociation between the corticospinal excitability (decreased: P < 0.001) and EMG activity (increased: P < 0.001). Cross‐correlation analysis of the EMG activity showed that neuronal signals driving the agonist and surround muscles are not synchronised when SI is present. The results suggest a distinctive origin of the neuronal signals driving the agonist and surround muscles. In addition, they indicate that cortical output might be simultaneously modulated by voluntary and non‐voluntary activity, generated in cortical and subcortical structures, respectively.
Turning Shy on a Winter's Day: Effects of Season on Personality and Stress Response in Microtus arvalis
Authors: Gracceva Giulia , Herde Antje , Groothuis Ton G. G. , Koolhaas Jaap M. , Palme Rupert , Eccard Jana A.
Published: May 2014

Animal personalities are by definition stable over time, but to what extent they may change during development and in adulthood to adjust to environmental change is unclear. Animals of temperate environments have evolved physiological and behavioural adaptations to cope with the cyclic seasonal changes. This may also result in changes in personality: suites of behavioural and physiological traits that vary consistently among individuals. Winter, typically the adverse season challenging survival, may require individuals to have shy/cautious personality, whereas during summer, energetically favourable to reproduction, individuals may benefit from a bold/risk‐taking personality. To test the effects of seasonal changes in early life and in adulthood on behaviours (activity, exploration and anxiety), body mass and stress response, we manipulated the photoperiod and quality of food in two experiments to simulate the conditions of winter and summer. We used the common voles (Microtus arvalis) as they have been shown to display personality based on behavioural consistency over time and contexts. Summer‐born voles allocated to winter conditions at weaning had lower body mass, a higher corticosterone increase after stress and a less active, more cautious behavioural phenotype in adulthood compared to voles born in and allocated to summer conditions. In contrast, adult females only showed plasticity in stress‐induced corticosterone levels, which were higher in the animals that were transferred to the winter conditions than to those staying in summer conditions. These results suggest a sensitive period for season‐related behavioural plasticity in which juveniles shift over the bold–shy axis.
Sibling Aggregation Preference Depends on Activity Phase in the European Earwig (Forficula auricularia)
Authors: Raveh Shirley , Vogt Dominik , Montavon Célien , Kölliker Mathias
Published: May 2014

Benefits and costs of group living may be differentially influenced by kinship or familiarity and depend on context. For example, aggregation with kin may be costly in a mating context due to the risk of inbreeding, but beneficial in social interactions because it may reduce within‐group competition. Research investigating aggregation behaviour in different contexts is scarce, especially in gregarious invertebrates. In the present study, we investigated the aggregation among adult European earwigs (Forficula auricularia) by comparing the aggregation behaviour of groups composed of individuals from two different families with the aggregation dynamics of groups composed of individuals from the same family (siblings). Aggregation behaviour was measured both during the night (active phase) and during the day (inactive phase). Our results showed enhanced aggregation among individuals from the same family at night, but lack of such preferences during the day. These findings demonstrate that earwigs are able to recognize familiar relatives and that this information is used for aggregation decisions at night, while they are most active, but not during the day when they rest.
Fighting During Suckling: Is it Really an Epiphenomenon?
Authors: Skok Janko , Škorjanc Dejan
Published: May 2014

Suckling by piglets and kittens is accompanied by intense fighting among littermates. There are strong arguments that support the fighting for teats as an epiphenomenon, such as there being a sufficient number of mammary glands (teats) that are of equal quality for littermates, as suggested by Hudson and Distel (Ethology, 119, 2013, 353). However, this article presents a possible adaptive explanation for fighting during suckling. To substantiate the adaptive function of suckling fights, the disposability and limitations of colostrum are first considered. Other aspects are also discussed, such as the potential role of social thermoregulation, the stimulation of mammary glands (massage) and milk composition. Adaptive explanations for the absence/presence and intensity of suckling fights across species consider differences in the colostrum and mature milk composition, mechanisms of transferring immunoglobulin that supply passive immunity to neonates, strategies used to compete for teats and litter size. However, agonistic behaviours in the context of suckling should not be simply categorised as an epiphenomenon.
Exploring How a Shift in the Physical Environment Shapes Individual and Group Behavior across Two Social Contexts
Authors: Keiser Carl N. , Modlmeier Andreas P. , Singh Nishant , Jones Devin K. , Pruitt Jonathan N.
Published: May 2014

The presence or absence of social counterparts can be instrumental in shaping both individual and collective behaviors. Furthermore, factors of the social environment may safeguard individuals from environmental stressors. In the study reported here, we tested the effects of moving into a new habitat on the mean, variance, and repeatability of individual behavioral tendencies between two social contexts (isolated vs. in a social group). Using the arid social spider, Stegodyphus dumicola (Araneae: Eresidae), we tested whether individuals' boldness was influenced by either (i) their time spent in a social group or (ii) their latency since having moved into a new habitat. We found that the effect of moving into a new habitat on individuals' boldness depended on whether spiders entered the novel environment in isolation or as part of a social group. Spiders that experienced a habitat shift with a social group showed no change in their average boldness, whereas individuals that shifted environments in isolation showed an increase in their mean boldness. Interestingly, neither of these trends was influenced by the time which had elapsed since the habitat shift, suggesting that shifting habitats has a lasting effect on isolated spiders' behavioral tendencies. Finally, we assessed how time spent in a new environment influenced colonies' collective foraging behavior. Here, we found that the longer social groups remained in a new environment, the faster the group responded to prey. Taken together, our data demonstrate that the effects of shifting physical environments on individuals' boldness may depend on individuals' social context, and that group tenure is associated with subtle shifts in colonies' collective foraging behavior.
Identification of stocked muskellunge and potential for distinguishing hatchery‐origin and wild fish using pelvic fin ray microchemistry
Authors: Rude N. P. , Smith K. T. , Whitledge G. W.
Published: May 2014

The effectiveness of pelvic fin ray microchemistry of muskellunge, Esox masquinongy Mitchill, to identify stocked individuals along with the potential to identify naturally reproduced fish were evaluated. Fish and water samples were obtained from one hatchery and seven lakes with natural differences in water Sr:Ca to determine whether location‐specific environmental signatures were recorded in sectioned muskellunge pelvic fin rays, including fish of known environmental history. Water and fin ray Sr:Ca were strongly correlated. Six lakes in Illinois possessed Sr:Ca signatures that were distinct from the hatchery where muskellunge were raised, resulting in pronounced shifts in Sr:Ca across sectioned fin rays of stocked fish. Hatchery and lake‐specific Sr:Ca signatures were stable across years. Sixteen of 19 individual fish known to have been stocked based on PIT tags implanted at stocking were correctly identified as hatchery‐origin fish using fin ray core Sr:Ca. Results also indicated that the hatchery Sr:Ca signal can be retained for at least 7 years in fin rays of stocked fish. Fin ray microchemistry is a non‐lethal approach for determining environmental history of muskellunge that could be used to assess movement patterns in lake and river systems and the degree to which muskellunge populations are supported by natural reproduction and stocking.
Improved allometric models to estimate the aboveground biomass of tropical trees
Authors: Chave Jérôme , Réjou‐Méchain Maxime , Búrquez Alberto , Chidumayo Emmanuel , Colgan Matthew S. , Delitti Welington B.C. , Duque Alvaro , Eid Tron , Fearnside Philip M. , Goodman Rosa C. , Henry Matieu , Martínez‐Yrízar Angelina , Mugasha Wilson A. , Muller‐Landau Helene C. , Mencuccini Maurizio , Nelson Bruce W. , Ngomanda Alfred , Nogueira Euler M. , Ortiz‐Malavassi Edgar , Pélissier Raphaël , Ploton Pierre , Ryan Casey M. , Saldarriaga Juan G. , Vieilledent Ghislain
Published: May 2014

Terrestrial carbon stock mapping is important for the successful implementation of climate change mitigation policies. Its accuracy depends on the availability of reliable allometric models to infer oven‐dry aboveground biomass of trees from census data. The degree of uncertainty associated with previously published pantropical aboveground biomass allometries is large. We analyzed a global database of directly harvested trees at 58 sites, spanning a wide range of climatic conditions and vegetation types (4004 trees ≥ 5 cm trunk diameter). When trunk diameter, total tree height, and wood specific gravity were included in the aboveground biomass model as covariates, a single model was found to hold across tropical vegetation types, with no detectable effect of region or environmental factors. The mean percent bias and variance of this model was only slightly higher than that of locally fitted models. Wood specific gravity was an important predictor of aboveground biomass, especially when including a much broader range of vegetation types than previous studies. The generic tree diameter–height relationship depended linearly on a bioclimatic stress variable E, which compounds indices of temperature variability, precipitation variability, and drought intensity. For cases in which total tree height is unavailable for aboveground biomass estimation, a pantropical model incorporating wood density, trunk diameter, and the variable E outperformed previously published models without height. However, to minimize bias, the development of locally derived diameter–height relationships is advised whenever possible. Both new allometric models should contribute to improve the accuracy of biomass assessment protocols in tropical vegetation types, and to advancing our understanding of architectural and evolutionary constraints on woody plant development.
Geographies of Knowledge and Learning: The Example of Medical Technology
Authors: Hermelin Brita , Dahlström Margareta , Smas Lukas
Published: May 2014

This paper brings a geographical perspective to debates in research on knowledge and learning for the innovation of products and firms. The importance of understanding the development of “composite knowledge,” which should be understood as knowledge developed through the bridging of different knowledge fields, is stressed. The empirical focus of the study is medical technology. The arguments in this paper are based on a literature review, secondary data, and a “knowledge biography” case study of a firm located in Stockholm, Sweden. The discussion describes how knowledge networks may be multilocal, thus connecting partners in local, national, and international geographical settings. This paper shows that synergies and complementary relations between regional, network, and corporate spaces are focal points for the processes of knowledge dynamics. It also illustrates how “soft” factors in innovations (in addition to important and “hard” factors of technology and functionality improvements, for instance) are important. “Soft” factors include market, process and input innovations, and aesthetic expressions.
Effects of chloride, thiocyanate and sulphate salts on β‐lactoglobulin–pectin associative complexes
Authors: Hirt Stacey , Jones Owen G.
Published: May 2014

Protein–polysaccharide complexes are used to improve protein stability and encapsulate high‐value ingredients, yet the influence of different salts on their formation has not been investigated. Using light scattering and turbidimetry, effects of chloride, sulphate and thiocyanate salts on β‐lactoglobulin and pectin complexes (protein/pectin ratio = 2:1 and 4:1) were determined in relation to effects of pH and ionic strength. Effects of anions on complex formation were significant at 25 mmol kg−1 added ionic strength. Cation effects were not significant. At 100 mmol kg−1 ionic strength, pH of complex formation increased with sulphate salts (pH 5.1) relative to chloride and thiocyanate salts (pH 4.9), while pH of coacervation increased with sulphate salts (pH 4.7) and decreased with thiocyanate salts (pH 4.4) relative to chloride salts (pH 4.6). Pure β‐lactoglobulin stability was otherwise reduced with thiocyanate salts below pH 5, implying a significant effect of pectin interactions.
Intra‐firm trade, exporting, importing, and firm performance
Authors: Haller Stefanie A.
Published: May 2014

Abstract This paper examines firm heterogeneity in terms of size, wages, capital intensity, and productivity between domestic and foreign‐owned firms that engage in intra‐firm trade, firms that export and import, firms that import only, and firms that export only. As previously documented, heterogeneity between different groups of trading firms is substantial. Taking into account intra‐firm trade in addition to exporting and importing yields new insights into the productivity advantage previously established for exporting firms. The results presented here show that this premium accrues only to exporters that also import and to exporters that also engage in intra‐firm trade, but not to firms that export only. Using simultaneous quantile regressions, the paper illustrates that heterogeneity within different groups of trading firm is equally large. Some of this within‐group heterogeneity can be attributed to differences in trading partners.
Incumbency advantages in the Canadian Parliament
Authors: Kendall Chad , Rekkas Marie
Published: May 2014

Abstract We apply a regression discontinuity approach to determine incumbency advantages in the Canadian Parliament, finding that incumbents enjoy a 9.4–11.2% increased probability of winning over non‐incumbents. Owing to the presence of multiple parties, an incumbency advantage in terms of vote share does not always translate to an increased probability of winning, because incumbents do not necessarily obtain votes from their closest opponent. Also, under the assumption that strategic exit is not an issue, we are able to split the incumbency advantage into party incumbency and individual candidate incumbency components, finding that the advantage is almost entirely due to the individual.
The effects of labour unions on international capital tax competition
Authors: Exbrayat Nelly , Gaigné Carl , Riou Stéphane
Published: May 2014

Abstract We analyze the impact of labour market rigidities on tax competition between two imperfectly integrated countries. Following a shift from a competitive to a unionized labour market in both countries, the capital tax can be adjusted upward in the country with the less rigid labour market, whereas the capital tax is always adjusted downward in the other country. Moreover, by reducing the labour cost differential between countries, trade liberalization gives rise to tax and welfare convergences. Finally, when a country adopts a flexible labour market, the unionized country may attract the majority of capital.
Trap Levels in Eu and other Rare‐Earth Ions Codoped CaAl2O4 Phosphors
Authors: Katsumata Toru , Kubo Hiromi , Komuro Shuji , Aizawa Hiroaki
Published: May 2014

Photoluminescence spectrum, trap depths, and densities of trapped carriers of CaAl2O4:Eu phosphor crystals doped with rare‐earth elements were studied using the thermally stimulated luminescence technique. Trap depths and densities of the specimens vary with rare‐earth elements doped as the auxiliary activators. Tm and Nd are found to be effective for the strong afterglow phosphorescence peaking at λ = 442 nm for several hours after the excitation. CaAl2O4:Eu phosphor crystals doped with Nd and Tm include high density of carriers trapped at E = 0.59 and 0.52 eV, respectively.
Electrical Conductivity of SiOCN Ceramics by the Powder‐Solution‐Composite Technique
Authors: Nguyen Van Lam , Zanella Caterina , Bettotti Paolo , Sorarù Gian Domenico
Published: May 2014

SiOCN ceramics have been prepared by the polymer pyrolysis method. The preceramic polymers were synthesized from a polysiloxane cross‐linked with two different N‐containing compounds: a silazane or a ternary amine. The corresponding SiOCN ceramics were obtained by pyrolysis in nitrogen atmosphere at five different temperatures from 1000°C to 1400°C. The electrical conductivity of the powdered SiOCN ceramic samples was determined by the powder‐solution‐composite technique. The results show an increase in room temperature AC conductivity of three orders of magnitude, from ≈10−5 (S/cm) to ≈10−2 (S/cm), with increasing pyrolysis temperature from 1000°C to 1400°C. Furthermore, the electrical conductivity of the amine‐derived SiOCN is three to five times higher than that of the silazane‐derived ceramic at each pyrolysis temperature. The combined structural study by Raman spectroscopy and chemical analysis suggests that the increase of electrical conductivity with the pyrolysis temperature is due to the sp3‐to‐sp2 transition of the amorphous carbon phase. The higher conductivity of the amine‐derived SiOCN is also discussed considering features like the volume% of the free‐carbon phase and its possible N‐doping.
Sense of coherence and incidence of periodontal disease in adults
Authors: Kanhai Jai , Harrison Victoria E. , Suominen Anna L. , Knuuttila Matti , Uutela Antti , Bernabé Eduardo
Published: May 2014

Aim

To assess whether sense of coherence (SOC) predicts the 4‐year incidence of periodontal disease in adults.

Methods

Data from 848 adults who participated in both the Health 2000 Survey and the Follow‐Up Study of Finnish Adults' Oral Health were analysed. At baseline, participants provided information on demographic characteristics, education level, the SOC scale, pre‐existing diabetes and dental behaviours. The outcome measure was the change in number of teeth with pocketing ≥4 mm over 4 years over 4 years. Two separate sets of longitudinal analyses were conducted. The first set was conducted with all the 848 subjects who participated in both surveys and the second set was conducted with the 305 subjects who had no pocketing ≥4 mm at baseline.

Results

In the full sample, baseline SOC was not associated with change in number of teeth with pocketing over 4 years (coefficient from linear regression: −0.28; 95% CI: −0.74 to 0.18). Similarly, baseline SOC was not associated with number of teeth with pocketing after 4 years (Rate Ratio: 0.94; 95%CI: 0.80 to 1.11) among those with no pocketing at baseline.

Conclusion

This 4‐year prospective study suggests that SOC measured in adulthood does not explain change in the number of teeth with periodontal pocketing ≥4 mm.
Relationship between increases in BMI and changes in periodontal status: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Ekuni Daisuke , Mizutani Shinsuke , Kojima Azusa , Tomofuji Takaaki , Irie Koichiro , Azuma Tetsuji , Yoneda Toshiki , Furuta Michiko , Eshima Nobuoki , Iwasaki Yoshiaki , Morita Manabu
Published: May 2014

Aim

The purpose of this prospective cohort study was to investigate whether body mass index (BMI) and oral health behaviour are related to changes in periodontal status in Japanese university students.

Materials and Methods

Students (n = 224) who were interested in receiving oral health examinations before entering university and before graduation were included in the analysis. Subjects were investigated regarding the correlations of oral health behaviours and increases in BMI with the percentage of bleeding on probing (%BOP) and Community Periodontal Index (CPI) scores as indicators of changes in periodontal status.

Results

The risk of increased %BOP was associated with the non‐use of dental floss (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 3.11; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.31–7.37; p < 0.05), whereas the risk of increased CPI score was associated with increases in BMI (OR: 1.95; 95% CI: 1.05–3.65; p < 0.05) and simplified oral hygiene index score (OR: 2.28; 95% CI: 1.23–4.22; p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Increases in BMI were associated with worsening of periodontal status, defined as increased CPI score in Japanese university students, whereas lack of inter‐dental cleaning was associated with exacerbated gingival bleeding.
Expert panel evaluation of health information technology effects on adverse events
Authors: Abramson Erika L. , Kern Lisa M. , Brenner Samantha , Hufstader Meghan , Patel Vaishali , Kaushal Rainu
Published: May 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

Adverse events (AEs) among hospitalized patients occur frequently and result in significant sequelae. Federal policy is incentivizing health information technology (HIT) use, although research demonstrating safety benefits from HIT is mixed. Our objective was to evaluate the potential effects of HIT on reducing 21 different inpatient AEs. Identifying AEs most likely to be reduced by HIT can inform the design of future studies evaluating its effectiveness.

Methods

We conducted a modified Delphi panel of national experts in HIT and safety. We conducted a focused literature review to inform the experts. Using a novel framework, experts rated each AE as ‘definitely reduced by health IT,’ ‘possibly reduced by health IT’ and ‘not likely to be reduced by health IT’.

Results

From our panel discussion, experts identified six AEs as ‘definitely reduced by health IT’: (1) adverse drug events (ADEs) associated with digoxin; (2) ADE associated with IV heparin; (3) ADE associated with hypoglycaemic agents; (4) ADE associated with low molecular weight heparin and factor Xa inhibitor; (5) contrast nephropathy associated with catheter angiography; and (6) ADE hospital‐acquired antibiotic‐associated Clostridium difficile.

Conclusions

Understanding the effects of HIT on patient outcomes will be essential to ensuring that the significant federal investment results in anticipated improvements. This study serves as an important early step in helping with the design of future work evaluating level of HIT infrastructure and rates of inpatient AEs.
Rasch analysis of the illness management and recovery scale‐clinician version
Authors: McGuire Alan B. , Kean Jacob , Bonfils Kelsey , Presnell Jade , Salyers Michelle P.
Published: May 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

The illness management and recovery scale‐clinician version (IMRS‐C) is a measure of outcomes thought to be important indicators of progress for consumers participating in illness management and recovery (IMR). Prior research has examined the psychometric properties of the IMRS‐C; extant research supports certain aspects of the scale's reliability (test–retest) and validity (sensitivity to interventions). Analyses based on Rasch provide certain advantages and have not been applied to the IMRS‐C.

Method

This study used an archival IMRS database including responses regarding 697 participants with severe mental illness from a variety of community‐based settings. Rasch analyses were utilized to determine item functioning and utility of the IMRS‐C.

Results

Results of Rasch analyses using the IMRS‐C as one unidimensional scale were problematic. Analyses grouping items into three separate scales measuring recovery, management and biological vulnerability were more promising, but the third scale had other limitations.

Conclusions

Results suggest that the items included in the IMRS‐C can form two screeners, one for recovery and one for management; items regarding biological vulnerability were inadequate. The assessment could be supplemented by more refined measures of coping/self‐management and recovery constructs.
Mental suffering and the DSM‐5: a critical review
Authors: Vanheule Stijn , Devisch Ignaas
Published: May 2014

The definition of mental disorder included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM‐5), indicates that mental disorders are usually associated with significant distress. However, the handbook is vague with respect to whether distress is crucial to the diagnosis of mental disorders, and a conceptual framework on the precise nature of distress is lacking. As a result, it remains vague how the term ‘distress’ is to be taken into account in actual diagnostic situations: the DSM‐5 provides no operational framework for diagnosing distress. The authors argue that the work of Georges Canguilhem, who focuses on the topic of abnormality and pathology, and Paul Ricoeur's philosophical reflections on the theme of mental suffering may provide a structure for conceptualizing and evaluating distress. Ricoeur's phenomenological model of mental suffering is discussed. Here, mental suffering can be thought of in terms of the relationship between self and other, and also in terms of the continuum made up by, what he terms, languishing and acting. Ricoeur suggests that distress is not a quantity that can be measured, but a characteristic that should be studied qualitatively in interpersonal and narrative contexts. Consequently, diagnosticians should describe and document how individuals experience subjective distress. On a practical level, this means that clinicians' ideas about patients' distress should be embedded in case formulations. A detailed evaluation of an individual's pathos‐experience should be made before conclusions are drawn with regard to diagnosis.