bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A conceptual model of community dynamics during the transport stage of the invasion process: a case study of ships’ ballast
Authors: Briski Elizabeta , Chan Farrah T. , MacIsaac Hugh J. , Bailey Sarah A.
Published: November 2013

Aim

After J. L. Lockwood, P. Cassey and T. Blackburn (2009, Diversity and Distributions, 15, 904–910) first described a theoretical relationship between propagule pressure and colonization pressure, two empirical studies demonstrated that the transport stage of the invasion process can profoundly influence the strength of the relationship among multiple events, as well as predictions of introduction risk. However, studies exploring dynamics of transported communities are rare, as repeated‐measures sampling during transportation by any vector is logistically difficult. We constructed a conceptual model of community dynamics during transportation and supported it by empirical data for propagule pressure and colonization pressure of plankton.

Location

Global.

Methods

A conceptual model of community dynamics was developed based on lognormal species abundance distribution and the simulation model of J. L. Lockwood, P. Cassey and T. Blackburn (2009, Diversity and Distributions, 15, 904–910). We considered four cases: case ‘A’ – no reduction in propagule nor colonization pressure; case ‘B’ – strong reduction in propagule and mild reduction in colonization pressure; case ‘C’ – mild reduction in propagule and strong reduction in colonization pressure; and case ‘D’ – strong reduction in both propagule and colonization pressures.

Results

The cases ‘B’, ‘C’ and ‘D’ were supported by empirical data for invertebrates, dinoflagellates and diatoms from ships’ ballast tanks, respectively. Propagule pressure of invertebrates, dinoflagellates and diatoms decreased 99.95%, 80% and 94% in 25 days, respectively, while colonization pressure decreased 34%, 57% and 64%.

Main conclusions

Transport affects both propagule pressure and colonization pressure of taxa, with the magnitude of change dependent on length of transport and taxon‐specific survival and reproduction. Our model demonstrates that introduction risk varies substantially across and within taxa depending on the occurrence and severity of selection pressures during transportation which serve to change species abundance distributions.
The association between restorative pre‐clinical activities and musculoskeletal disorders
Authors: Corrocher P. A. , Presoto C. D. , Campos J. A. D. B. , Garcia P. P. N. S.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To evaluate the risk of development of musculoskeletal disorders in the upper limbs of undergraduate dentistry students during the execution of pre‐clinical laboratory activities based on gender, type of dental procedure and area of the mouth under treatment.

Methods

Male and female undergraduate students in the second year of the Araraquara Dental School, UNESP, were enrolled in this study. Digital photographs were obtained whilst the subjects performed laboratory activities. The working postures adopted by each student were evaluated using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA). The photos were analysed by a calibrated researcher (k = 0.89), and a final risk score was attributed to each analysed procedure (n = 354). Descriptive statistical analyses were performed, and the associations of interest were analysed by the chi‐square test (P = 0.05).

Results

During most of the laboratory procedures performed, the risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders was high (64.7%; – IC95%: 59.7‐69.7%), with no significant association between the RULA final score and gender (χ2 = 1.100; P = 0.577), type of dental procedure (χ2 = 5.447, P = 0.244) and mouth area treated (χ2=4.150; P = 0.126).

Conclusions

The risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders was high in undergraduate dentistry students; this risk was not related to gender, type of dental procedure and region of the mouth being treated.
Intravenous thrombolysis for patients with reverse magnetic resonance angiography and diffusion‐weighted imaging mismatch: SAMURAI and NCVC rt‐PA Registries
Authors: Sakamoto Y. , Koga M. , Kimura K. , Nagatsuka K. , Okuda S. , Kario K. , Hasegawa Y. , Okada Y. , Yamagami H. , Furui E. , Nakagawara J. , Shiokawa Y. , Okata T. , Kobayashi J. , Tanaka E. , Minematsu K. , Toyoda K.
Published: November 2013

Background and purpose

The characteristics of reverse magnetic resonance angiography and diffusion‐weighted imaging (MRA‐DWI) mismatch (RMM), defined as a large DWI lesion in the absence of major artery occlusion (MAO), remain unknown, especially in patients treated with intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt‐PA).

Methods

Patients with stroke in the middle cerebral artery territory were included. Early ischaemic changes (EIC) were assessed with the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score on DWI (DWI‐ASPECTS). All patients were divided into four groups based on the presence of MAO and a DWI‐ASPECTS cut‐off value of <7. RMM was defined as DWI‐ASPECTS <7 without MAO. Clinical characteristics, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) and favorable functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0–2) at 90 days were compared amongst the four groups.

Results

Of the 486 patients enrolled (167 women, median age 74 years, median initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score 13), reverse MRA‐DWI mismatch was observed in 24 (5%). Of the clinical characteristics, cardioembolism was the only factor that was independently associated with RMM [odds ratio (OR) 5.49, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.25–24.1]. Multivariable analyses revealed that patients with RMM more commonly had sICH than those with DWI‐ASPECTS ≥ 7 irrespective of the presence (OR 5.44, 95% CI 1.13–26.1) or absence (13.1, 2.07–83.3) of MAO, and they had a more favorable functional outcome than those with DWI‐ASPECTS < 7 plus MAO (7.45, 2.39–23.2).

Conclusion

RMM was observed in 5% of patients treated with rt‐PA and associated with cardioembolism. Patients with RMM may benefit from thrombolysis compared with those with EIC with MAO, although increment in the rate of sICH is a concern.
Effects of low estimated glomerular filtration rate on outcomes after stroke: a hospital‐based stroke registry in China
Authors: Yang J. , Arima H. , Zhou J. , Zhao Y. , Li Q. , Wu G. , Zhang Y.
Published: November 2013

Background and purpose

As uncertainty persists over the prognostic significance of low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in acute stroke, the effects of low eGFR on death/disability amongst participants with acute stroke in China were determined.

Methods

Nanjing First Hospital stroke registry was a prospective cohort study of stroke patients. Patients with acute stroke (brain infarction, intracerebral hemorrhage or subarachnoid hemorrhage) within 7 days of onset were recruited consecutively from 2004 to 2008. Baseline eGFR was estimated using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation. Outcomes were death/disability, defined by scores 3–6 on the modified Rankin Scale at 90 days.

Results

A total of 1909 participants were included in the present analyses. Of them, 112 (5.9%) had baseline moderate to severe decrease in eGFR (G3b‐4) and increasing risk of higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores. Low eGFR was associated with increasing risk of death/disability at 90 days [G3b‐4, odds ratio 2.58 (95% confidence interval 1.71–3.91); G3a, 1.86 (1.35–2.56); G2, 1.21 (0.96–1.52); P trend <0.001). However, the association was not statistically significant after adjustment for demographic and clinical factors including NIHSS scores.

Conclusions

There were no appreciable effects of low eGFR on death/disability at 90 days independent of other prognostic factors in Chinese patients with acute stroke.
Clinical features and long‐term prognosis of trochlear headaches
Authors: Smith J. H. , Garrity J. A. , Boes C. J.
Published: November 2013

Background and purpose

Trochlear headaches are a recently recognized cause of headache, of which both primary and inflammatory subtypes are recognized. The clinical features, long‐term prognosis and optimal treatment strategy have not been well defined.

Methods

A cohort of 25 patients with trochlear headache seen at the Mayo Clinic between 10 July 2007 and 28 June 2012 were identified.

Results

The diagnosis of trochlear headache was not recognized by the referring neurologist or ophthalmologist in any case. Patients most often presented with a new daily from onset headache (n = 22, 88%). The most characteristic headache syndrome was reported as continuous, achy, periorbital pain associated with photophobia and aggravation by eye movement, especially reading. Individuals with a prior history of migraine were likely to have associated nausea and experience trochlear migraine. Amongst individuals with trochleitis, 5/12 (41.6%) had an identified secondary mechanism. Treatment responses were generally, but not invariably, favorable to dexamethasone/lidocaine injections near the trochlea. At a median follow‐up of 34 months (range 0–68), 10/25 (40%) of the cohort had experienced complete remission.

Conclusions

Trochlear headaches are poorly recognized, have characteristic clinical features, and often require serial injections to optimize the treatment outcome. The identification of trochleitis should prompt neuroimaging to look for a secondary cause.
Influence of Male Dominance on Egg Testosterone and Antibacterial Substances in the Egg of Grey Partridges
Authors: Grenna Marco , Avidano Lorena , Malacarne Giorgio , Leboucher Gérard , Cucco Marco
Published: November 2013

Maternal effects play an important role in mediating reproductive success; the different allocation of resources in eggs is considered a primary maternal effect. In oviparous vertebrates, there are several substances (hormones, immunoglobulins, antioxidants, antibacterial molecules) that females may allocate differentially. Mate choice is a key factor influencing female reproductive decisions and investment in eggs, but it is not clear to what extent the dominance status of the partner can influence the decision to invest differentially in the quality of eggs. In the grey partridge Perdix perdix, we ranked males for their social status after pairwise dominance tests. Then, females were paired experimentally with dominant or subordinate individuals. We measured testosterone, lysozyme and ovotransferrin concentrations in their eggs. Females paired with dominant males laid eggs with higher testosterone concentration, while egg mass, lysozyme and ovotransferrin concentrations did not differ. With regard to testosterone, because this hormone has been shown to elicit beneficial effects in offspring hatching from grey partridge eggs, our results are in line with the differential allocation hypothesis that females paired with high‐quality males should invest more in the current reproductive event.
Do Parents and Helpers Discriminate between Related and Unrelated Nestlings in the Cooperative Breeding Silver‐Throated Tit?
Authors: Li Jianqiang , Zhang Zhengwang , Lv Lei , Gao Chang , Wang Yong
Published: November 2013

When benefits exceed costs, natural selection may favor adults that develop the ability to recognize and preferentially direct care toward their own offspring to maximize their fitness. Investigations into the ability of adults to recognize offspring in offspring's early development period may help to understand when the ability of kin recognition starts to develop. In birds, studies of offspring recognition have mainly been conducted on bi‐parental breeding species, but relatively seldom on cooperative breeding species, despite that kin recognition may be of particular importance for cooperative breeders. The silver‐throated tit Aegithalos glaucogularis is a small passerine in which some nests have helpers during breeding. We tested whether silver‐throated tit parents and helpers were able to distinguish between their own and alien nestlings 2–5 d before fledging when recognition mechanisms were likely to have been developed. Through two forced choice experiments, of which one was conducted right beside the experimental nests (<0.8 m) and the other far away from the experimental nests (~6 m), we found that neither parents nor helpers discriminatively fed their own and alien nestlings, which suggested that at least during the experimental nestling age, and within the 6‐m‐radius area around the nests, they might not have the ability to recognize offspring. The possibility that silver‐throated tits use a larger area (>6 m radius) around their nests as a location‐based cue for offspring recognition, or would develop an offspring recognition ability at an older nestling age and/or even after fledging, warrants future studies.
Climate warming and Bergmann's rule through time: is there any evidence?
Authors: Teplitsky Celine , Millien Virginie
Published: November 2013

Climate change is expected to induce many ecological and evolutionary changes. Among these is the hypothesis that climate warming will cause a reduction in body size. This hypothesis stems from Bergmann's rule, a trend whereby species exhibit a smaller body size in warmer climates, and larger body size under colder conditions in endotherms. The mechanisms behind this rule are still debated, and it is not clear whether Bergmann's rule can be extended to predict the effects of climate change through time. We reviewed the primary literature for evidence (i) of a decrease in body size in response to climate warming, (ii) that changing body size is an adaptive response and (iii) that these responses are evolutionary or plastic. We found weak evidence for changes in body size through time as predicted by Bergmann's rule. Only three studies investigated the adaptive nature of these size decreases. Of these, none reported evidence of selection for smaller size or of a genetic basis for the size change, suggesting that size decreases could be due to nonadaptive plasticity in response to changing environmental conditions. More studies are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn about the underlying causes of these changes in body size in response to a warming climate.
Non‐pathogenic aquatic bacteria activate the immune system and increase predation risk in damselfly larvae
Authors: Janssens Lizanne , Stoks Robby
Published: November 2013

Pathogens can increase vulnerability to predation through their harmful effects on hosts. Recently, it was shown that the mere activation of the immune system by pathogens may increase the host's risk of predation. Here, we test whether exposure to non‐pathogenic bacteria also activates the immune system and thereby increases vulnerability to predation.

We exposedEnallagma cyathigerumdamselfly larvae to a non‐pathogenic strain of the bacteriumEscherichia coliand measured immune defence, anti‐predator behaviour and survival times in the presence of larval dragonfly predators. To evaluate whether non‐pathogenic bacteria also generated energy‐based trade‐offs leading to other fitness costs, we also quantified growth rate and survival in the absence of predators.

Exposure to the non‐pathogenic bacterium did not affect survival in the absence of the predator but increased growth rate, possibly a response to reduce exposure time to the bacterium. Larvae exposed to the bacterium activated their immune response as shown by an increase in the activity of phenoloxidase and the number of haemocytes. The bacterium affected anti‐predator traits involved in avoiding detection by predators as well as traits involved in escape after detection. Pre‐exposed larvae showed higher activity levels and further increased the number of feeding strikes in the presence of predation risk, possibly driven by energetic constraints. Pre‐exposed larvae swam less often when attacked, but faster. This impaired anti‐predator response came at the ecological cost of increased vulnerability to predation.

Our study demonstrated that exposure to non‐pathogenic bacteria increases vulnerability to predation, which is a novel type of antagonistic interaction. This highlights the unexplored possibility that non‐pathogens may play a role in maintaining variation in immune defence through insidious effects on predator–prey interactions. Since non‐pathogenic bacteria can be very abundant, this unexplored ecological cost of immune system activation in terms of increased predation may have major consequences in natural systems and may provide an unexplored new force underlying variation in immune defence.
Association of overweight and obesity with the use of self and home‐based infusion therapy among haemophilic men
Authors: Ullman M. , Zhang Q. C. , Brown D. , Grant A. , Soucie J. M. ,   on Behalf of the Hemophilia Treatment Center Network Investigators
Published: November 2013

An elevated body mass index (BMI) may make venipuncture more difficult, potentially impacting the use of home infusion (HI) and self‐infusion (SI). We sought to determine whether above‐normal BMI is associated with decreased use of HI treatment and SI of clotting factor concentrate among haemophilic persons. We analysed data from 10 814 male patients with haemophilia A and B (45% with severe disease) aged 6–79 years enrolled in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Universal Data Collection surveillance project between 1998 and 2008. Associations between the use of HI and SI and BMI were evaluated using logistic regression. Fifty per cent of haemophilic men were overweight or obese, similar to rates reported among the general US population by the 2007–2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey [Flegal, KM et al., JAMA 2010;303:235–241;]. Twenty per cent of children and 22% of teens were obese, as were 28% of adults [Ogden, CL et al., JAMA 2010;303:235, 242]. Overall, 70% of the study sample used HI; 44% of those who used HI also used SI. Overweight and obese men were each less likely to use HI than those of normal weight [odds ratio (OR) 0.8; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.7–1.0 and OR 0.7; 95% CI 0.6–0.8 respectively]. Obese teens and adult men were also less likely to practice SI than teens and adults of normal weight (OR 0.8; 95% CI 0.7–0.9 for each). We conclude that overweight and obese haemophilic men are less likely to use HI and obese men are less likely to use SI than their normal‐weight counterparts.
The obstetric, gynaecological and fertility implications of homozygous PAI‐1 deficiency: single‐centre experience
Authors: Heiman M. , Gupta S. , Shapiro A. D.
Published: November 2013

Complete plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI‐1) deficiency is an exceedingly rare autosomal recessive bleeding disorder previously identified and reported in a large Old Order Amish (OOA) kindred in Indiana [Fay et al. Blood 1997; 90: 204]. Mouse models suggest that proteolysis via the plasminogen activator/plasmin system plays a crucial role in reproduction including degradation of the follicular wall during ovulation, fertilization, embryo implantation and embryogenesis [Leonardsson et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 1995; 92: 12446]. We report the obstetric, gynaecological and fertility histories of OOA individuals with homozygous PAI‐1 deficiency. In this family, there are 10 affected members identified to date ranging in age between 10 and 32 years, including seven female patients and three male patients. To date, two women have achieved pregnancies without difficulty; however, they experienced antenatal bleeding and preterm labour. The early initiation and continuation of antifibrinolytic agents, Epsilon‐aminocaproic acid or tranexamic acid, during the pregnancy and in the postpartum period, was believed to be successful in preventing major bleeding complications in our patients with complete PAI‐1 deficiency.
Influence of ankle plantar flexor muscle architecture and strength on gait in boys with haemophilia in comparison to typically developing children
Authors: Stephensen D. , Drechsler W. I. , Scott O. M.
Published: November 2013

Altered gait patterns, muscle weakness and atrophy have been reported in young boys with severe haemophilia when compared to unaffected peers. The aim of this study was to determine whether lateral gastrocnemius muscle size and architecture influenced biomechanical walking patterns of boys with haemophilia and if these relationships differed from age‐matched typically developing boys. Biomechanical function of the knee and ankle during level walking, lateral gastrocnemius anatomical cross‐sectional area, thickness, width, fascicle length and pennation angle and ankle plantar flexor muscle strength were recorded in 19 typically developing boys aged 7–12 years and 19 age‐matched haemophilic boys with a history of ankle joint bleeding. Associations between gait, strength and architecture were compared using correlations of peak gait values. Haemophilic boys walked with significantly larger (P < 0.05) ankle dorsi flexion angles and knee flexion moments. The ankle plantar flexor muscles of haemophilic boys were significantly weaker and smaller when compared to typically developing peers. In the typically developing boys there was no apparent association between muscle architecture, strength and walking patterns. In haemophilic boys maximum muscle strength and ACSA normalized torque of the ankle plantar flexors together with the muscle width, thickness, fascicle length and angulation (P < 0.05) were associated with motion at the ankle and peak moments at the knee joint. Muscle strength deficits of the ankle plantar flexors and changes in muscle size and architecture may underpin the key biomechanical alterations in walking patterns of haemophilic boys with a history of ankle joint bleeding.
Attitudes and beliefs of non‐participants in a population‐based screening programme for colorectal cancer
Authors: Hall Nicola J , Rubin Greg P , Dobson Christina , Weller David , Wardle Jane , Ritchie Mary , Rees Colin J
Published: November 2013

Background

Uptake of colorectal cancer screening programmes needs to be improved or at least maintained in order to achieve projected reductions in mortality and morbidity. Understanding the origins of non‐participation in screening is therefore important.

Objective

To explore the beliefs and experiences of individuals who had not responded either to their screening invitation or reminder.

Design

A qualitative study using in‐depth interviews with non‐participants from England's population‐based colorectal cancer screening programme. Data collection and analysis were carried out using a grounded theory approach, with an emphasis on the constant comparison method, and continued until saturation (27 interviews).

Findings

The interviews provided an in‐depth understanding of a range of reasons and circumstances surrounding non‐participation in screening, including contextual and environmental influences as well as factors specific to the screening test. Non‐participation in screening was not necessarily associated with negative attitudes towards screening or a decision to not return a kit. Reasons for non‐participation in screening included not feeling that participation is personally necessary, avoiding or delaying decision making, and having some degree of intention to take part but failing to do so because of practicalities, conflicting priorities or external circumstances. Beliefs, awareness and intention change over time.

Discussion and conclusions

A range of approaches may be required to improve screening uptake. Some non‐participants may already have a degree of intention to take part in screening in the future, and this group may be more responsive to interventions based on professional endorsement, repeat invitations, reminders and aids to making the test more practical.
Morphologic identification of atypical chronic lymphocytic leukemia by digital microscopy
Authors: Marionneaux S. , Maslak P. , Keohane E. M.
Published: November 2013

Introduction

Atypical chronic lymphocytic leukemia (aCLL) is a morphologic variant found in approximately 25% of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Although aCLL has a more aggressive course compared to typical CLL (tCLL), it is not usually reported. This retrospective study used digital microscopy to morphologically classify CLL patients as aCLL or tCLL, and determined the prevalence of prognostic markers in each group.

Methods

CellaVision AB (Lund, Sweden) was used to evaluate lymphocyte morphology on archived blood films of 97 CLL patients, and results of their prognostic marker analysis at diagnosis were obtained. The unpaired t‐test, Chi‐square, or Fisher's Exact test were used for statistical analysis.

Results

27% of CLL cases were morphologically classified as aCLL. The aCLL group had a higher prevalence of trisomy 12, unmutated IgVH, and CD38 expression (markers associated with poor prognosis), and a lower prevalence of 13q14 deletions compared to tCLL; this was statistically significant.

Conclusion

Using digital imaging to identify aCLL is feasible, economical, and may provide clinically relevant prognostic information at diagnosis and during periodic monitoring. Further study of a larger number of patients is needed to assess the clinical utility of reporting aCLL morphology.
Identifying core nursing sensitive outcomes associated with the most frequently used North American Nursing Diagnosis Association—International nursing diagnoses for patients with cerebrovascular disease in Korea
Authors: Lee Eunjoo , Park Hyejin , Whyte James , Kim Youngae , Park Sang Youn
Published: November 2013

The purpose of this study was to identify the core nursing sensitive outcomes according to the most frequently used five North American Nursing Diagnosis Association—International for patients with cerebrovascular disease using the Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC). A cross‐sectional survey design was used. First, nursing problems were identified through 78 charts review, and then linkages between each of nursing problems and nursing sensitive outcomes were established and validated by an expert group for questionnaires. Second, 80 nurses working in the neurosurgical intensive care unit and neurosurgery departments of five Korean hospitals were asked to evaluate how important each outcome is and how often each outcome used to evaluate patient outcomes using 5‐point Likert scale. Although there were some differences in the core outcomes identified for each of the nursing problem, consciousness, cognitive orientation, neurologic status and communication were considered the most critical nursing sensitive outcomes for patients suffering cerebrovascular disease. Core nursing sensitive outcomes of patients suffering cerebrovascular disease using NOC were identified to measure the effectiveness of nursing care.
A ZAP‐70 kinase domain variant prevents thymocyte‐positive selection despite signalling CD69 induction
Authors: Siggs Owen M. , Yates Adèle L. , Schlenner Susan , Liston Adrian , Lesage Sylvie , Goodnow Christopher C.
Published: November 2013

Quantitative reductions in T‐cell receptor (TCR) signalling are associated with severe immunodeficiency, yet in certain cases can lead to autoimmunity. Mutation of the tyrosine kinase ZAP‐70 can cause either of these outcomes, yet the limits of its signal transducing capacity are not well defined. To investigate these limits we have made use of mrtless: a chemically induced mutation of Zap70 associated with T‐cell deficiency. Unlike cells devoid of ZAP‐70, mrtless thymocytes showed partial induction of CD5 and CD69, and were sensitive to TCR stimulation with a dose–response shifted approximately 10‐fold. However, essentially no T cells were able to compensate for the mrtless mutation and mature beyond the CD4+ CD8+ stage. This outcome contrasts with a ZAP‐70 Src Homology 2 domain mutant strain, where high‐affinity self‐reactive TCR are positively selected rather than deleted. We discuss these data with respect to current models of TCR signalling in thymocyte selection.
Efficient purchaser incentive when dealing with suppliers implementing continuous improvement plans
Authors: Kerbache Laoucine , van Delft Christian
Published: November 2013

This paper presents incentive schemes in the framework of a collaborative purchasing cost reduction process with a supplier implementing a continuous improvement plan. Using a stochastic decision process formulation, we analyze the structure of the optimal policy and characterize its numerical robustness through numerical applications solved by dynamic programming. Then, we analyze two purchaser incentive schemes observed in practice. First, we describe some theoretical properties of the policies associated with these two schemes (schemes I and II) and show that these policies exhibit nonoptimal structures. Second, we estimate the quantitative loss for typical parameter values and, in particular, we show that for certain businesses this loss is significant. Then, we propose two easy‐to‐implement improvements (schemes III and IV), which result in near‐optimal solutions and a significant impact on purchasing cost performances.
Is a Penny Spent a Penny Earned? Comparing Predicted to Actual Disability Insurance Savings in the Ticket to Work Program
Authors: Burns Alice
Published: November 2013

This article compares Disability Insurance (DI) savings to those projected in the Congressional Budget Office cost estimate accompanying the Ticket to Work (TTW) authorizing legislation. Enacted with the goal of promoting employment among DI beneficiaries, TTW savings were close to predicted savings, but economic conditions reduced the impact. These findings suggest vocational rehabilitation policies need to incorporate strategies to address economic downtowns if they are to promote long‐term independence. This article highlights some of the challenges inherent to evaluations conducted without an experimental research design, while illustrating the potential of ex post analyses to assess whether expected savings materialize.
The Rube Goldberg Machine of Budget Implementation, or Is There a Structural Deficit in the New York City Budget?
Authors: Williams Daniel W. , Onochie Joseph
Published: November 2013

This paper examines the case of continuous budgeting both preadoption and postadoption in New York City and considers matters of forecast bias, rebudgeting, and the belief that New York City remains in structural deficit which has been cited as a continuing source of concern since New York City's 1970s fiscal crisis. The asserted structural deficit is a rationale for reducing spending in the prebudget and postbudget adoption periods. Williams (), shows that New York City's revenue forecasts are biased to underestimation, exacerbating over longer horizons. This paper examines expenditure estimates, reductions and within‐year modifications over the first decade of the twenty‐first century. If there is a structural deficit, expenditures would exceed revenues in forecasts by more than offsetting forecast biases. However, there are other reasons expenditures may exceed revenues in forecasts. Late term increases in expenditure estimates suggest deliberate choices, which cannot be termed “structural.” Expenditure changes follow changing revenue particularly in the postadoption period. This rebudgeting practice does not reflect fiscal stress; it is part of a complex method of producing a surreptitious budget stabilization fund, reallocations favored by the mayor, and possibly shifting of the budget towards capital uses with little broad public discussion. These observed effects are somewhat consistent with effective financial management, but are nontransparent and inconsistent with democratic participation. Policy recommendations aim at restoring transparency and democratic oversight.
The Environmental Protection Agency's Budget from 1970 to 2010: A Lifecycle Analysis
Authors: Balint Peter J. , Conant James K.
Published: November 2013

Using three approaches, we attempt to explain changes in the Environmental Protection Agency's operating budget from 1970 to 2010. First, we compare qualitative predictions from two general types of agency lifecycle theories to the actual path of the EPA's budget. Second, we test empirically several hypotheses regarding the effects of political, economic, and other variables on the agency's budget. Third, we conduct detailed historical case studies of selected years. The results offer hints of support for theories predicting incremental change but do not support the hypothesized effects of external factors. We also uncover some historical anomalies that warrant further research.
Economic Envy
Authors: Morgan‐Knapp Christopher
Published: November 2013

Envy of others' material possessions is a potent motivator of consumerism. This makes it a prudentially and morally hazardous emotional response. After outlining these hazards, I present an analysis of the emotion of envy. Envy, I argue, presents things in the following way: the envier lacks some good that her rival possesses; this difference between them is bad for the envier; this difference reflects poorly on the envier's worth; and this difference is undeserved. I then discuss the conditions under which these presentations can be satisfied by differences in material possessions. My conclusion is that no difference in material possessions can simultaneously be all the ways envy presents it as being. Consequently, economic envy is systematically irrational: it is never a warranted response to the distribution of material wealth. Recognising this bolsters the prudential and moral case for reducing the degree to which we feel it and for resisting the inclinations it gives rise to when we do.
Insults, Free Speech and Offensiveness
Authors: Archard David
Published: November 2013

This article examines what is wrong with some expressive acts, ‘insults’. Their putative wrongfulness is distinguished from the causing of indirect harms, aggregated harms, contextual harms, and damaging misrepresentations. The article clarifies what insults are, making use of work by Neu and Austin, and argues that their wrongfulness cannot lie in the hurt that is caused to those at whom such acts are directed. Rather it must lie in what they seek to do, namely to denigrate the other. The causing of offence is at most evidence that an insult has been communicated; it is not independent grounds of proscription or constraint. The victim of an insult may know that she has been insulted but not accept or agree with the insult, and thereby submit to the insulter. Hence insults need not, as Waldron argues they do, occasion dignitary harms. They do not of themselves subvert their victims' equal moral status. The claim that hateful speech endorses inequality should not be conflated with a claim that such speech directly subverts equality.

Thus, ‘wounding words’ should not unduly trouble the liberal defender of free speech either on the grounds of preventing offence or on those of avoiding dignitary harms.
Vitamin C suppresses cell death in MCF‐7 human breast cancer cells induced by tamoxifen
Authors: Subramani Tamilselvan , Yeap Swee Keong , Ho Wan Yang , Ho Chai Ling , Omar Abdul Rahman , Aziz Suraini Abdul , Rahman Nik Mohd. Afizan Nik Abd. , Alitheen Noorjahan Banu
Published: November 2013

Vitamin C is generally thought to enhance immunity and is widely taken as a supplement especially during cancer treatment. Tamoxifen (TAM) has both cytostatic and cytotoxic properties for breast cancer. TAM engaged mitochondrial oestrogen receptor beta in MCF‐7 cells and induces apoptosis by activation of pro‐caspase‐8 followed by downstream events, including an increase in reactive oxygen species and the release of pro‐apoptotic factors from the mitochondria. In addition to that, TAM binds with high affinity to the microsomal anti‐oestrogen‐binding site and inhibits cholesterol esterification at therapeutic doses. This study aimed to investigate the role of vitamin C in TAM‐mediated apoptosis. Cells were loaded with vitamin C by exposure to dehydroascorbic acid, thereby circumventing in vitro artefacts associated with the poor transport and pro‐oxidant effects of ascorbic acid. Pre‐treatment with vitamin C caused a dose‐dependent attenuation of cytotoxicity, as measured by acridine‐orange/propidium iodide (AO/PI) and Annexin V assay after treatment with TAM. Vitamin C dose‐dependently protected cancer cells against lipid peroxidation caused by TAM treatment. By real‐time PCR analysis, an impressive increase in FasL and tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) mRNA was detected after TAM treatment. In addition, a decrease in mitochondrial transmembrane potential was observed. These results support the hypothesis that vitamin C supplementation during cancer treatment may detrimentally affect therapeutic response.
LRP5 negatively regulates differentiation of monocytes through abrogation of Wnt signalling
Authors: Borrell‐Pagès Maria , Romero July Carolina , Badimon Lina
Published: November 2013

Molecular changes involved in cell differentiation are only partially known. Circulating inflammatory cells need to differentiate to perform specialized functions in target tissues. Here, we hypothesized that low‐density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 5 (LRP5) is involved, through its participation in the canonical Wnt/β‐catenin signalling, in the differentiation process of monocytic cells. To this aim, we characterized differentiation mechanisms of HL60 cells and primary human monocytes. We show that silencing the LRP5 gene increased differentiation of HL60 cells and human monocytes, suggesting that LRP5 signalling abrogates differentiation. We demonstrate that the mechanisms behind this blockade include sequestration of β‐catenin at the cellular membrane, inhibition of the Wnt signalling and increase of apoptosis. We further demonstrate the involvement of LRP5 and the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling in the process because cellular differentiation can be rescued by the addition of downstream Wnt target genes to the monocytic cells.
Telocytes in liver: electron microscopic and immunofluorescent evidence
Authors: Xiao Junjie , Wang Fei , Liu Zhenguo , Yang Changqing
Published: November 2013

Hepatic interstitial cells play a vital role in regulating essential biological processes of the liver. Telocytes (TCs), a novel type of interstitial cells firstly identified by Popescu and his coworkers, have been reported in many tissues and organs, but not yet in liver (go to http://www.telocytes.com). We used transmission electron microscopy and immunofluorescence (double labelling for CD34 and c‐kit/CD117, or vimentin, or PDGF Receptor‐α, or β) to provide evidence for the existence of TCs in mice liver. The distribution of TCs in liver was found to be of similar density in the four hepatic lobes. In conclusion, here we show the presence of TCs in mice liver. It remains to be determined the possible roles of TCs in the control of liver homeostasis and regeneration, the more so as a close special relationship was found between TCs and hepatic putative stem (progenitor) cells.
Long‐term emollient therapy improves xerosis in children with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Boralevi F. , Saint Aroman M. , Delarue A. , Raudsepp H. , Kaszuba A. , Bylaite M. , Tiplica G.S.
Published: November 2013

Background

Hydration with topical emollients forms the backbone of treatment for mild atopic dermatitis (AD), but few randomized controlled trials have assessed their efficacy in young children.

Objectives

Assess the efficacy and tolerability of long‐term emollient therapy in the treatment of moderate to severe xerosis in young children with AD.

Methods

This was a phase III, multicentre, double‐blind, randomized, vehicle‐controlled trial. Children (n = 251) aged 2–6 years with AD‐associated xerosis were randomized 1 : 1 to a 28‐day treatment with an emollient combining glycerol and paraffin or its vehicle. Non‐responders at the end of the double‐blind period were treated open label with emollient until day 84. Responders stopped treatment until reassessment on day 56. Those who relapsed after stopping treatment were treated open label with emollient until day 84.

Results

During the double‐blind period, xerosis score (XS) of the scoring atopic dermatitis (SCORAD) index, objective SCORAD and visual analogue score decreased and skin hydration increased more in the emollient group than in the vehicle group (P < 0.001 for all measures). More patients were responders with emollient than with vehicle (66.1% vs. 45.6%, P < 0.001). During the open‐label period, stopping emollient treatment led to relapse but improvement returned if treatment was restarted with emollient. Regular use of the emollient also yielded improvement in children who did not initially respond. Adverse events were similar in the two groups, and no treatment‐related severe adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

Long‐term therapy with emollient is effective and well tolerated for the treatment of xerosis in children with atopic dermatitis.
Modeling, Simulation and Control of Pink Guava Puree Pasteurization Process with Fouling as Disturbance
Authors: Wan Mokhtar W.M.F. , Taip F.S. , Abdul Aziz N. , Mohd Noor S.B.
Published: November 2013

Fouling is an unwanted deposit on a heat exchanger surface which may cause inefficiency to the heat exchanger's performance in maintaining the outlet product temperature during pasteurization. In order to deal with this problem, fouling must be handled by an efficient control strategy. In this study, an empirical model of fouling was successfully developed and used in a control system. The obtained model is represented by first order plus time delay model with R2 = 0.90. Several proportional‐integral‐derivative (PID) controllers were then simulated on this model to determine the best control system. Simulation results showed that an ideal PID controller tuned by minimization of integral absolute error (IAE) method exhibited good performance in disturbance rejection of fouling with settling time reduced and robustness improved. This result provides insights to properly design a control strategy dealing with fouling during pasteurization.

Practical Applications

Pasteurization is one of the food preservation techniques which is commonly applied in beverage and food industries. The outlet product temperature from this process is a crucial parameter that must be controlled to satisfy the industrial standard. However, fouling deposit that occurs during pasteurization process hinders the temperature from reaching the desired value. Hence, a good controller should be designed in order to address this issue. In this study, a control strategy was investigated to deal with fouling problem by using simulation work. The simulation results obtained can be integrated in control strategy design for beverage and food industries. Furthermore, with an enhanced control strategy, product quality is ensured as well as improving efficiency in plant's energy consumption.
Cognitive Dysfunction and Greater Visit‐to‐Visit Systolic Blood Pressure Variability
Authors: Epstein Noam U. , Lane Kathleen A. , Farlow Martin R. , Risacher Shannon L. , Saykin Andrew J. , Gao Sujuan
Published: November 2013

Objectives

To determine whether variability in blood pressure (BP) is negatively associated with performance on cognitive testing.

Design

Multinational, longitudinal, observational cohort study.

Setting

The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative study.

Participants

Individuals with a screening diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or normal cognition (N = 626).

Measurements

Mean, variance, and maximum BP were calculated based on measures collected from screening to 36 months. Analysis of covariance models were used to determine the association between BP measures and cognitive scores at 36 months after adjusting for covariates.

Results

Greater variability in systolic (P < .05) but not diastolic (P > .18) BP was associated with worse global (Modified Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale Cognitive Component and Clinical Dementia Rating sum of boxes) and executive (Trail‐Making Test Part B, Animal Fluency, and Vegetable Fluency) function and episodic memory (Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test Total Score).

Conclusion

There is a clinically significant association between greater systolic BP variability and greater cognitive dysfunction. These results should be verified in other well‐characterized cohorts, and the neuroanatomical pathophysiology underlying the observed greater cognitive impairment should be further explored.
Calcium‐vitamin D‐fortified milk is as effective on circulating bone biomarkers as fortified juice and supplement but has less acceptance: a randomised controlled school‐based trial
Authors: Neyestani T. R. , Hajifaraji M. , Omidvar N. , Nikooyeh B. , Eshraghian M. R. , Shariatzadeh N. , Kalayi A. , Khalaji N. , Zahedirad M. , Abtahi M. , Asadzadeh S.
Published: November 2013

Background

Hypovitaminosis D, especially during cold seasons, is quite prevalent among primary school children in Tehran. The present study aimed to compare the efficacy of calcium‐vitamin D‐fortified‐milk, ‐orange juice and supplement in primary school children.

Methods

Children aged 9–12 years from both sexes were randomly assigned to one of six groups to receive plain milk, fortified milk, plain orange juice, fortified orange juice, supplement or placebo. Both fortified‐milk and ‐juice contained 100 IU of vitamin D and 500 mg of calcium per 200 mL package, whereas supplement contained 200 IU of vitamin D and 500 mg of calcium. The duration of intervention was 12 weeks, from November 2008 to March 2009.

Results

A total of 410 children completed the study. Regression analysis with adjustment for both sex and initial values of 25(OH)D revealed that consumption of either supplement, fortified orange juice or fortified milk resulted in a 20.8 nm [confidence interval (CI) = 17.4–23.9], 9.9 nm (CI = 7.4–12.3) or 6.9 nm (CI = 3.3–10.5) increase in circulating 25(OH)D compared to the related control groups. However, changes in serum osteocalcin and intact parathyroid hormone in the supplement group did not differ from those of fortified milk or plain milk. The increment of osteocalcin in both plain milk and fortified milk was more than in fortified orange juice, although the difference was statistically insignificant.

Conclusions

Despite having double amount of vitamin D and being more effective in raising serum 25(OH)D, supplementation did not confer additional benefit in terms of osteocalcin and intact parathyroid hormone compared to either fortified or plain milk.
Impact of a hormone‐releasing intrauterine system on the vaginal microbiome: a prospective baboon model
Authors: Hashway S.A. , Bergin I.L. , Bassis C.M. , Uchihashi M. , Schmidt K.C. , Young V.B. , Aronoff D.M. , Patton D.L. , Bell J.D.
Published: November 2013

Background

Use of a levonorgestrel‐releasing intrauterine system (LNG‐IUS) in humans may alter vaginal microbial populations and susceptibility to pathogens. This study evaluated the time‐dependent effects of an LNG‐IUS on the vaginal microbiome of the baboon, a useful animal model for reproductive studies.

Methods

Levonorgestrel‐releasing intrauterine systems were inserted into three reproductively mature, female baboons. The animals were evaluated for 6 months by physical examination and Gram‐stained cytology. The vaginal microbiota was characterized at each timepoint by culture‐independent analysis of the 16S rRNA‐encoding gene.

Results

Each baboon harbored a diverse vaginal microbiome. Interindividual variation exceeded intra‐individual variation. Diversity declined over time in one baboon and showed mild fluctuations in the other two. There were no significant community differences from early to late post‐LNG‐IUS placement.

Conclusions

The baboon vaginal microbiome is unique to each individual and is polymicrobial. In this pilot study, the vaginal microbiome remained stable from early to late post‐LNG‐IUS placement.