bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High rates of phasing errors in highly polymorphic species with low levels of linkage disequilibrium
Authors: Bukowicki Marek , Franssen Susanne U. , Schlötterer Christian
Published: March 2016

Short read sequencing of diploid individuals does not permit the direct inference of the sequence on each of the two homologous chromosomes. Although various phasing software packages exist, they were primarily tailored for and tested on human data, which differ from other species in factors that influence phasing, such as SNP density, amounts of linkage disequilibrium (LD) and sample sizes. Despite becoming increasingly popular for other species, the reliability of phasing in non‐human data has not been evaluated to a sufficient extent. We scrutinized the phasing accuracy for Drosophila melanogaster, a species with high polymorphism levels and reduced LD relative to humans. We phased two D. melanogaster populations and compared the results to the known haplotypes. The performance increased with size of the reference panel and was highest when the reference panel and phased individuals were from the same population. Full genomic SNP data and inclusion of sequence read information also improved phasing. Despite humans and Drosophila having similar switch error rates between polymorphic sites, the distances between switch errors were much shorter in Drosophila with only fragments <300–1500 bp being correctly phased with ≥95% confidence. This suggests that the higher SNP density cannot compensate for the higher recombination rate in D. melanogaster. Furthermore, we show that populations that have gone through demographic events such as bottlenecks can be phased with higher accuracy. Our results highlight that statistically phased data are particularly error prone in species with large population sizes or populations lacking suitable reference panels.
Experimental habitat restoration for conserved species using ecosystem engineers and vegetation management
Authors: McCullough Hennessy S. , Deutschman D. H. , Shier D. M. , Nordstrom L. A. , Lenihan C. , Montagne J.‐P. , Wisinski C. L. , Swaisgood R. R.
Published: March 2016

We experimentally address the theoretical potential for managing ecosystem engineer species to support suites of species in degraded habitats. Historically, the ecosystem engineer California ground squirrel Otospermophilus beecheyi supported a grassland food web through widespread burrowing activity. Currently, ground squirrels are not a threatened species, but like many other ecosystem engineers, they exist at densities too low to fulfill their engineering role in many locations. Our objective was to implement short‐term treatments, including squirrel translocation, to re‐establish key ecological processes on protected reserve lands. We manipulated vegetation and squirrels in a replicated, large‐scale field experiment for 2 years, and monitored through a third year. Vegetation mowing and soil decompaction treatments reduced grass density and thatch depth. Squirrel translocation accelerated squirrel settlement and activity in target sites. Of the more than 1000 burrow entrances remaining through the third year, nearly all burrows were concentrated in the plots that received squirrel translocation. We found significant additive effects of squirrel translocation and vegetation management on the spatial footprint of squirrel activity. Noteworthy and persistent engineering effects were achieved through squirrel activity, and both vegetation management and squirrel re‐establishment were needed to stimulate squirrel activity. The overarching goal of this experiment was to provide conservation managers with a cost‐effective tool for restoring degraded habitats to a hybrid ecosystem state with improved suitability for species of conservation concern, in this case, the western burrowing owl Athene cunicularia hypugaea.
Cautionary tales regarding the dissemination of motivational interviewing
Authors: Dobson Keith S.
Published: March 2016

Commentary to: After 30 years of dissemination, have we achieved sustained practice change in motivational interviewing?
Training in vain?
Authors: Carroll Kathleen M.
Published: March 2016

Commentary to: After 30 years of dissemination, have we achieved sustained practice change in motivational interviewing?
A key challenge for motivational interviewing: training in clinical practice
Authors: Weisner Constance , Satre Derek D.
Published: March 2016

Commentary to: After 30 years of dissemination, have we achieved sustained practice change in motivational interviewing?
Emergency assessment and treatment planning for traumatic dental injuries
Authors: Moule A , Cohenca N
Published: March 2016

Trauma involving the dentoalveolar region is a frequent occurrence which can result in the fracturing and displacement of teeth, crushing and/or fracturing of bone and soft tissue injuries including contusions, abrasions and lacerations. This review describes the assessment of patients with these injuries, not in a didactic sense by repeating excellent already published classifications and treatment options, but by addressing questions that arise during assessment. It covers trauma first aid, examination of the patient, factors that affect treatment planning decisions, and the importance of communicating treatment options and prognosis to traumatized patients.
Responses of the pulp, periradicular and soft tissues following trauma to the permanent teeth
Authors: Yu CY , Abbott PV
Published: March 2016

Trauma to the permanent teeth involves not only the teeth but also the pulp, the periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, gingiva and other associated structures. There are many variations in the types of injuries with varying severity and often a tooth may sustain more than one injury at the same time. In more severe trauma cases, there are many different cellular systems of mineralized hard and unmineralized soft tissues involved, each with varying potential for healing. Furthermore, the responses of the different tissues may be interrelated and dependent on each other. Hence, healing subsequent to dental trauma has long been known to be very complex. Because of this complexity, tissue responses and the consequences following dental trauma have been confusing and puzzling for many clinicians. In this review, the tissue responses are described under the tissue compartments typically involved following dental trauma: the pulp, periradicular and associated soft tissues. The factors involved in the mechanisms of trauma are analysed for their effects on the tissue responses. A thorough understanding of the possible tissue responses is imperative for clinicians to overcome the confusion and manage dental trauma adequately and conservatively in order to minimize the consequences following trauma.
The prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders in children in Panama: a school‐based study
Authors: Lu Peter L. , Saps Miguel , Chanis Ricardo A. , Velasco‐Benítez Carlos A.
Published: March 2016

Aim

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are common in children, but the epidemiology of FGIDs is incompletely understood. Our aim was to perform a population‐based study using Rome III criteria to describe the prevalence of FGIDs in children in Panama.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional study of children attending three schools in Panama City, Panama. Children with organic medical diseases were excluded. Subjects provided demographic information and completed the Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Symptoms – Rome III Spanish version.

Results

A total of 321 subjects (61.1% female, median age 10 years, range 8–14 years) completed our study. A total of 92 subjects (28.7%) met criteria for an FGID. Gender, age and school type did not differ significantly between subjects with and without FGIDs. The most common FGIDs included functional constipation (15.9%), irritable bowel syndrome (5.6%), and functional abdominal pain or functional abdominal pain syndrome (4.0%). Abdominal pain‐related FGIDs were present in 12.1%.

Conclusion

FGIDs are common in school‐aged children in Panama. The prevalence of abdominal pain‐related FGIDs in children in Panama is similar to that described in other parts of the world. Further population‐based studies utilising Rome III criteria to measure FGID prevalence in children are needed to advance our understanding of the pathogenesis of FGIDs.
Assessing fundamental motor skills in Belgian children aged 3–8 years highlights differences to US reference sample
Authors: Bardid Farid , Huyben Floris , Lenoir Matthieu , Seghers Jan , De Martelaer Kristine , Goodway Jacqueline D. , Deconinck Frederik J. A.
Published: March 2016

Aim

This study aimed to understand the fundamental motor skills (FMS) of Belgian children using the process‐oriented Test of Gross Motor Development, Second Edition (TGMD‐2) and to investigate the suitability of using the United States (USA) test norms in Belgium.

Methods

FMS were assessed using the TGMD‐2. Gender, age and motor performance were examined in 1614 Belgian children aged 3–8 years (52.1% boys) and compared with the US reference sample.

Results

More proficient FMS performance was found with increasing age, from 3 to 6 years for locomotor skills and 3 to 7 years for object control skills. Gender differences were observed in object control skills, with boys performing better than girls. In general, Belgian children had lower levels of motor competence than the US reference sample, specifically for object control skills. The score distribution of the Belgian sample was skewed, with 37.4% scoring below average and only 6.9% scoring above average.

Conclusion

This study supported the usefulness of the TGMD‐2 as a process‐oriented instrument to measure gross motor development in early childhood in Belgium. However, it also demonstrated that caution is warranted when using the US reference norms.
Impacts of Quantitative Monetary Easing Policy in the United States and Japan on the Thai Economy
Authors: Nidhiprabha Bhanupong
Published: March 2016

This paper compares and contrasts the impact of quantitative easing (QE) monetary policy conducted by the Federal Reserve Bank and the Bank of Japan on the Thai economy. The impact of the first round of QE policy is related to Thailand's export market exposures, trade, and financial linkages with the United States and Japan. In the short run, QE has either an expansionary or contractionary effect on Thailand's output depending on whether the baht depreciates or appreciates against the US dollar and the Japanese yen. In the long run, when QE stimulates world output expansion, Thailand's manufactured output and exports respond positively to world economic recovery. In the medium run, the impact of QE is related to the appreciation of the Chinese yuan and the slowing of the Chinese economy, which further depresses Thailand's exports and prolongs Thailand's output recovery.
Pedometer intervention and weight loss in overweight and obese adults with Type 2 diabetes: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Cai X. , Qiu S. H. , Yin H. , Sun Z. L. , Ju C. P. , Zügel M. , Steinacker J. M. , Schumann U.
Published: March 2016

Aim

Although pedometer intervention is effective in increasing physical activity among adults with Type 2 diabetes, its impact on weight loss remains unclear. This meta‐analysis was aimed to assess whether pedometer intervention promotes weight loss.

Methods

Three different databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in English up to April 2015. Studies were included if they investigated the effects of pedometer intervention on weight loss, as measured by BMI or weight. Effect sizes were aggregated using a random‐effects model. Subgroup and meta‐regression analyses were used to identify potential moderators. Eleven RCTs with 1258 participants were included. All enrolled participants were overweight or obese.

Results

Pedometer intervention led to significantly decreased BMI [weighted mean difference (WMD) −0.15 kg/m2, 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.29 to −0.02 kg/m2] and reduced weight (WMD −0.65 kg, 95% CI −1.12 to −0.17 kg). Dietary counselling seemed to be a key predictor of the observed changes. However, none of the following variables had a significant influence: step goal setting, baseline age, BMI, weight, sex distribution, disease duration, intervention duration, and baseline values or change scores for total or moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity. After completion of the pedometer intervention, non‐significant declines in BMI and weight were observed during the follow‐up periods.

Conclusions

Pedometer intervention promotes modest weight loss, but its association with physical activity requires further clarification. Future studies are also required to document dietary and sedentary behaviour changes to facilitate the use of pedometers for weight loss in overweight and obese adults with Type 2 diabetes.
Impact of Septal Reduction on Left Atrial Size and Diastole in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Finocchiaro Gherardo , Haddad Francois , Kobayashi Yukari , Lee David , Pavlovic Aleksandra , Schnittger Ingela , Sinagra Gianfranco , Magavern Emma , Myers Jonathan , Froelicher Victor , Knowles Joshua W. , Ashley Euan
Published: March 2016

Background and aims

Both myectomy and alcohol septal ablation (ASA) can substantially reduce left ventricular (LV) outflow obstruction, relieve symptoms, and improve outcomes in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). It is unclear whether septal reduction decreases left atrial (LA) size and improves diastolic function. The aim of this study was to analyze the consequences of septal reduction on LA size and diastolic function in a cohort of patients with HCM.

Methods

Forty patients (mean age: 50 ± 14, male sex 64%) with HCM who underwent septal reduction (myectomy or alcohol septal ablation) were studied. Retrospective analyses of echocardiograms preprocedure, postprocedure, and at 1 year of follow‐up were performed.

Results

Thirty‐one patients had septal myectomy and 9 ASA. The degree of reduction in rest peak LV outflow tract gradient was significant (57 ± 32 vs. 23 ± 20 mmHg at 1 year, P < 0.001). Maximal interventricular septal thickness decreased from 22 ± 6 mm preprocedure to 19 ± 4 mm postprocedure (P < 0.001); moderate‐to‐severe mitral regurgitation (MR) was initially present in 34% of the sample and only 2% after the procedure. Average LA volume index (LAVI) decreased from 63 ± 20 to 55 ± 20 mL/m2 at the 1‐year follow‐up (P < 0.001). We did not observe a significant improvement in diastolic function at Doppler (E/A 1.2 ± 0.4 vs. 1.1 ± 0.5, P = 0.07; E’ 7.6 ± 3.6 vs. 6.9 ± 3.0, P = 0.4) pre‐ and postprocedure, respectively). At 1 year, only 5% of the patients were severely symptomatic (NYHA III). On multivariate analysis, a significant change in the LVOT gradient during stress (Δ gradient ≥30 mmHg) was the only variable independently associated with LAVI reverse remodeling >10 mL/m2 [OR = 6.4 (CI 95% 1.12–36.44), P = 0.04].

Conclusions

Septal reduction is effective in the relief of LV obstruction and symptoms in patients with HCM. The hemodynamic changes result in a significant LA reverse remodeling, but not in an improvement of diastolic function in these patients.
A single dose of lorazepam reduces paired‐pulse suppression of median nerve evoked somatosensory evoked potentials
Authors: Stude Philipp , Lenz Melanie , Höffken Oliver , Tegenthoff Martin , Dinse Hubert
Published: March 2016

Paired‐pulse behaviour in the somatosensory cortex is an approach to obtain insights into cortical processing modes and to obtain markers of changes of cortical excitability attributable to learning or pathological states. Numerous studies have demonstrated suppression of the response to the stimulus that follows a first one after a short interval, but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive, although there is agreement that GABAergic mechanisms seem to play a crucial role. We therefore aimed to explore the influence of the GABAA agonist lorazepam on paired‐pulse somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs). We recorded and analysed SEPs after paired median nerve stimulation in healthy individuals before and after they had received a single dose of 2.5 mg of lorazepam as compared with a control group receiving placebo. Paired‐pulse suppression was expressed as a ratio of the amplitudes of the second and the first peaks. We found that, after lorazepam application, paired‐pulse suppression of the cortical N20 component remained unchanged, but suppression of the N20–P25 complex was significantly reduced, indicative of GABAergic involvement in intracortical processing. Our data suggest that lorazepam most likely enhances inhibition within the cortical network of interneurons responsible for creating paired‐pulse suppression, leading to reduced inhibitory drive with a subsequently reduced amount of suppression. The results provide further evidence that GABAA‐mediated mechanisms are involved in the generation of median nerve evoked paired‐pulse suppression.
Elevated atmospheric [CO2] can dramatically increase wheat yields in semi‐arid environments and buffer against heat waves
Authors: Fitzgerald Glenn J. , Tausz Michael , O'Leary Garry , Mollah Mahabubur R. , Tausz‐Posch Sabine , Seneweera Saman , Mock Ivan , Löw Markus , Partington Debra L. , McNeil David , Norton Robert M.
Published: March 2016

Wheat production will be impacted by increasing concentration of atmospheric CO2 [CO2], which is expected to rise from about 400 μmol mol−1 in 2015 to 550 μmol mol−1 by 2050. Changes to plant physiology and crop responses from elevated [CO2] (e[CO2]) are well documented for some environments, but field‐level responses in dryland Mediterranean environments with terminal drought and heat waves are scarce. The Australian Grains Free Air CO2 Enrichment facility was established to compare wheat (Triticum aestivum) growth and yield under ambient (~370 μmol−1 in 2007) and e[CO2] (550 μmol−1) in semi‐arid environments. Experiments were undertaken at two dryland sites (Horsham and Walpeup) across three years with two cultivars, two sowing times and two irrigation treatments. Mean yield stimulation due to e[CO2] was 24% at Horsham and 53% at Walpeup, with some treatment responses greater than 70%, depending on environment. Under supplemental irrigation, e[CO2] stimulated yields at Horsham by 37% compared to 13% under rainfed conditions, showing that water limited growth and yield response to e[CO2]. Heat wave effects were ameliorated under e[CO2] as shown by reductions of 31% and 54% in screenings and 10% and 12% larger kernels (Horsham and Walpeup). Greatest yield stimulations occurred in the e[CO2] late sowing and heat stressed treatments, when supplied with more water. There were no clear differences in cultivar response due to e[CO2]. Multiple regression showed that yield response to e[CO2] depended on temperatures and water availability before and after anthesis. Thus, timing of temperature and water and the crop's ability to translocate carbohydrates to the grain postanthesis were all important in determining the e[CO2] response. The large responses to e[CO2] under dryland conditions have not been previously reported and underscore the need for field level research to provide mechanistic understanding for adapting crops to a changing climate.
Tree‐mycorrhizal associations detected remotely from canopy spectral properties
Authors: Fisher Joshua B. , Sweeney Sean , Brzostek Edward R. , Evans Tom P. , Johnson Daniel J. , Myers Jonathan A. , Bourg Norman A. , Wolf Amy T. , Howe Robert W. , Phillips Richard P.
Published: March 2016

A central challenge in global ecology is the identification of key functional processes in ecosystems that scale, but do not require, data for individual species across landscapes. Given that nearly all tree species form symbiotic relationships with one of two types of mycorrhizal fungi – arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) and ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi – and that AM‐ and ECM‐dominated forests often have distinct nutrient economies, the detection and mapping of mycorrhizae over large areas could provide valuable insights about fundamental ecosystem processes such as nutrient cycling, species interactions, and overall forest productivity. We explored remotely sensed tree canopy spectral properties to detect underlying mycorrhizal association across a gradient of AM‐ and ECM‐dominated forest plots. Statistical mining of reflectance and reflectance derivatives across moderate/high‐resolution Landsat data revealed distinctly unique phenological signals that differentiated AM and ECM associations. This approach was trained and validated against measurements of tree species and mycorrhizal association across ~130 000 trees throughout the temperate United States. We were able to predict 77% of the variation in mycorrhizal association distribution within the forest plots (P < 0.001). The implications for this work move us toward mapping mycorrhizal association globally and advancing our understanding of biogeochemical cycling and other ecosystem processes.
Infraorbital Neuralgia Attributed to a Foreign Body
Authors: Min Hyun Jin , Kim Kyung Soo
Published: March 2016

We reported a case of secondary infraorbital neuralgia due to a foreign body involving the nasal ala. As it was a very rare care, we reviewed reported literatures. This case highlights that infraorbital neuralgia could be caused by any tiny problems such as foreign body involving the area innervated by infraorbital nerve.
Do physicians correctly calculate thromboembolic risk scores? A comparison of concordance between manual and computer‐based calculation of CHADS2 and CHA2DS2‐VASc scores
Authors: Esteve‐Pastor M. A. , Marín F. , Bertomeu‐Martinez V. , Roldán‐Rabadán I. , Cequier‐Fillat Á. , Badimon L. , Muñiz‐García J. , Valdés M. , Anguita‐Sánchez M. ,   FANTASIIA Study Investigators
Published: March 2016

Background

Clinical risk scores, CHADS2
and CHA2DS2‐VASc scores, are the established tools for assessing stroke risk in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).

Aim

The aim of this study is to assess concordance between manual and computer‐based calculation of CHADS2
and CHA2DS2‐VASc scores, as well as to analyse the patient categories using CHADS2
and the potential improvement on stroke risk stratification with CHA2DS2‐VASc score.

Methods

We linked data from Atrial Fibrillation Spanish registry FANTASIIA. Between June 2013 and March 2014, 1318 consecutive outpatients were recruited. We explore the concordance between manual scoring and computer‐based calculation. We compare the distribution of embolic risk of patients using both CHADS2
and CHA2DS2‐VASc scores

Results

The mean age was 73.8 ± 9.4 years, and 758 (57.5%) were male. For CHADS2
score, concordance between manual scoring and computer‐based calculation was 92.5%, whereas for CHA2DS2‐VASc score was 96.4%. In CHADS2
score, 6.37% of patients with AF changed indication on antithrombotic therapy (3.49% of patients with no treatment changed to need antithrombotic treatment and 2.88% of patients otherwise). Using CHA2DS2‐VASc score, only 0.45% of patients with AF needed to change in the recommendation of antithrombotic therapy.

Conclusion

We have found a strong concordance between manual and computer‐based score calculation of both CHADS2 and CHA2DS2‐VASc risk scores with minimal changes in anticoagulation recommendations. The use of CHA2DS2‐VASc score significantly improves classification of AF patients at low and intermediate risk of stroke into higher grade of thromboembolic score. Moreover, CHA2DS2‐VASc score could identify ‘truly low risk’ patients compared with CHADS2 score.
A survey of Australian and New Zealand clinical practice with neoadjuvant systemic therapy for breast cancer
Authors: Zdenkowski N. , Butow P. , Mann G. B. , Fewster S. , Beckmore C. , Isaacs R. , Douglas C. , Boyle F. M.
Published: March 2016

Background

Neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NAST) has become an established treatment option for women with operable breast cancer.

Aim

We aimed to better understand NAST treatment patterns, barriers and facilitators in Australia and New Zealand.

Methods

We undertook a cross‐sectional survey of the current clinical practice of Australian and New Zealand breast cancer specialists. Questions included referral patterns for NAST, patient selection, logistics, decision making and barriers.

Results

Of 207 respondents, 162 (78%) reported routinely offering NAST to selected patients with operable breast cancer (median 9% of patients offered NAST). Specialty, location, practice type, gender or years of experience did not predict for offering NAST. In all, 45 and 58% wanted to increase the number of patients who receive NAST in routine care and in clinical trials respectively. Facilitators included the multidisciplinary team meeting and access to NAST clinical trials. Specialist‐reported patient barriers included: patient desire for immediate surgery (63% rated as important/very important); lack of awareness of NAST (50%); concern about progression (43%) and disinterest in downstaging (32%). Forty‐three per cent of participants experienced system‐related barriers to the use of NAST, including other clinicians’ lack of interest (27%); lack of clinical trials (24%) and unacceptable wait for a medical oncology appointment (37%).

Conclusion

This group of Australian and New Zealand clinicians are interested in NAST for operable breast cancer in routine care and clinical trials. Patient‐ and system‐related barriers that prevent the optimal uptake of this treatment approach will need to be systematically addressed if NAST is to become a more common approach.
Recent treatment advances in Hodgkin lymphoma: a concise review
Authors: Arulogun S. , Hertzberg M. , Gandhi M. K.
Published: March 2016

The majority of patients with Hodgkin lymphoma enjoy durable remissions following front‐line treatment. This typically involves combination chemotherapy with or without radiotherapy. A significant minority of patients experience relapsed/refractory disease, of whom only approximately half can be ‘salvaged’ with conventional second‐line treatments. Until recently, for those patients either failing or who are not fit for salvage, there have been few curative alternatives. Furthermore, there is a significant risk of delayed treatment complications to conventional therapies, including secondary malignancies and cardiac disease. However, novel targeted therapies are producing excellent results in clinical trials. They provide additional treatment options for those with relapsing/refractory disease; they may have potential in front‐line therapy. The anti‐CD30 antibody brentuximab vedotin (BV) has been tested as monotherapy and in combination in a variety of clinical settings, including in relapsed/refractory patients and as consolidative therapy following standard second‐line therapy. Nivolumab and pembrolizumab, currently used in other malignancies that are known to utilise the programmed death pathway for survival, have shown outstanding results when used as single agents in heavily pre‐treated (including BV refractory) patients. Individualising and adapting a patient's treatment course, whether augmenting or rationalising therapy, based on an interim positron emission tomography/computed tomography response is an important strategy currently under exploration to minimise toxicity while maximising response. Further work is needed to explore clinical and biological factors associated with improved outcomes. Knowledge of these factors combined with the movement of novel therapies into the front‐line setting will enable individualised therapy to enhance clinical responses and minimise toxicities.
Rethinking the Hispanic Paradox: The Mortality Experience of Mexican Immigrants in Traditional Gateways and New Destinations
Authors: Fenelon Andrew
Published: March 2016

Previous research suggests that favorable health outcomes among Mexican immigrants reflect high levels of social support in enclave communities with high co-ethnic density. This study examines the mortality outcomes of Mexican immigrants in the United States in traditional gateways versus new and minor destinations. Mexican immigrants in new and minor destinations have a significant survival advantage over those in traditional gateways, reflecting less established communities in new destinations. This finding casts doubt on the protective effects of enclaves, since non-traditional destinations have less established immigrant communities. Future research should reevaluate the relationship between community ethnic composition, social support, and immigrant health.
From Work to Welfare: Institutional Arrangements Shaping Turkish Marriage Migrants’ Gendered Trajectories into a New Society
Authors: Jakobsen Vibeke , Liversage Anika
Published: March 2016

Using a mixed methods approach, this article examines gendered patterns of employment and of unemployment benefit uptake among Turkish marriage migrants in Denmark. The results show that men use co-ethnic networks to access entry positions. Subsequent eligibility for unemployment benefits enable these men to search for better jobs. Women enter employment more slowly and tell of such entry being related to entering the unemployment insurance system, enabling them to periodically conform to gendered expectations as homemakers. Pakistani marriage migrants display similar patterns, indicating the centrality of this institutional arrangement in low-skilled marriage migrants’ active adaptation to a new society.
Role of Information Rents in Relational Contracts
Authors: Ishihara Akifumi
Published: March 2016

We study a repeated contracting model in which the agent has private information and the performance measure is unverifiable. In an optimal stationary contract, when the discount factor is not high, the principal's objective shifts from purely reducing the information rent toward increasing the total surplus to sustain the relational contract. As a result, the total surplus is not monotonically increasing in the discount factor and could decrease when the unverifiable performance measure becomes verifiable.
Population biology of an endangered species: the common guitarfish Rhinobatos rhinobatos in Lebanese marine waters of the eastern Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Lteif M. , Mouawad R. , Khalaf G. , Lenfant P. , Verdoit‐Jarraya M.
Published: March 2016

This study focuses on the population biology of the common guitarfish Rhinobatos rhinobatos, a cartilaginous fish listed as Endangered in the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Between December 2012 and January 2014, 67 individuals were collected by bottom longlining in coastal Lebanese marine waters at different ports at depths ranging from 10 to 110 m. The total length (LT) of the specimens ranged from 50 to 143 cm, and the mean ± s.d. was 76·2 ± 19·7 cm. The most common LT classes were between 60 and 70 cm. The total mass of the specimens ranged from 410 to 10 000 g, and the mean ± s.d. was 1841 ± 1987 g. A total of 34 males and 33 females were collected, and the sex ratio was not significantly different from 1:1. The mass and LT relationship showed positive allometric growth (b = 3·096 and r2 = 0·99), and the mean ± s.d. LT at which 50% of the individuals were sexually mature was 84·73 ± 5·81 cm for females and 78·57 ± 4·88 cm for males. The gonado‐somatic and hepato‐somatic indices were determined along with a condition factor, and parturition appeared to occur in winter. The primary prey items found in the fish stomachs during the autumn and winter seasons were Penaeidae. The results of this study will help to parameterize models of the population dynamics for this exploited fish stock to ensure the long‐term sustainability of its fishery.
Health Problems Precede Traumatic Brain Injury in Older Adults
Authors: Dams‐O'Connor Kristen , Gibbons Laura E. , Landau Alexandra , Larson Eric B. , Crane Paul K.
Published: March 2016

Objectives

To evaluate whether indices of preinjury health and functioning are associated with risk of incident traumatic brain injury (TBI) with loss of consciousness (LOC) and to evaluate health‐related factors associated with mortality in individuals with incident TBI.

Design

Prospective community cohort study.

Setting

Group Health, Seattle, Washington.

Participants

Individuals aged 65 and older with no self‐reported prior TBI with LOC (N = 3,363) were enrolled and followed every 2 years for an average of 7.5 years (range 0–18 years).

Measurements

Weibull survival models were used to evaluate baseline and time‐varying predictors of incident TBI with LOC, including measures of depression, activities of daily living (ADLs), cerebrovascular disease, and disease comorbidity.

Results

In an adjusted multivariate model, baseline depression symptoms as measured according to Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES‐D) score (hazard ratio (HR) for 4 points = 1.23, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.02–1.49, P = .03) and baseline activity of daily living (ADL) impairment (HR = 2.37, 95% CI = 1.24–4.53, P = .009) were associated with incident TBI. In a model that included time‐dependent covariates, cerebrovascular disease at the previous visit (HR = 2.28, 95% CI = 1.37–3.78, P < .001), CES‐D score the previous visit (HR for 4 points = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.02–1.49, P < .04) and baseline ADL impairment (HR 2.14, 95% CI = 1.11–4.13, P = .02) predicted incident TBI. Of factors considered, cerebrovascular disease and ADL impairment were associated with earlier mortality in participants with incident TBI with LOC.

Conclusion

Indices of health, mood, and functional status predict incident TBI with LOC in older adults. These findings may have implications for injury prevention and postinjury clinical management.
Incident Atrial Fibrillation and Disability‐Free Survival in the Cardiovascular Health Study
Authors: Wallace Erin R. , Siscovick David S. , Sitlani Colleen M. , Dublin Sascha , Mitchell Pamela H. , Odden Michelle C. , Hirsch Calvin H. , Thielke Stephen , Heckbert Susan R.
Published: March 2016

Objectives

To assess the associations between incident atrial fibrillation (AF) and disability‐free survival and risk of disability.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Cardiovascular Health Study.

Participants

Individuals aged 65 and older and enrolled in fee‐for‐service Medicare followed between 1991 and 2009 (MN = 4,046). Individuals with prevalent AF, activity of daily living (ADL) disability, or a history of stroke or heart failure at baseline were excluded.

Measurements

Incident AF was identified according to annual study electrocardiogram, hospital discharge diagnosis, or Medicare claims. Disability‐free survival was defined as survival free of ADL disability (any difficulty or inability in bathing, dressing, eating, using the toilet, walking around the home, or getting out of a bed or chair). ADLs were assessed at annual study visits or in a telephone interview. Association between incident AF and disability‐free survival or risk of disability was estimated using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

Over an average of 7.0 years of follow‐up, 660 individuals (16.3%) developed incident AF, and 3,112 (77%) became disabled or died. Incident AF was associated with shorter disability‐free survival (hazard ratio (HR) for death or ADL disability = 1.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.55–1.90) and a higher risk of ADL disability (HR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.18–1.58) than in individuals with no history of AF. This association persisted after adjustment for interim stroke and heart failure.

Conclusion

These results suggest that AF is a risk factor for shorter functional longevity in older adults, independent of other risk factors and comorbid conditions.
Validity of a condition specific outcome measure for fragile X syndrome: the Aberrant Behaviour Checklist‐utility index
Authors: Raspa M. , Sacco P. , Candrilli S.D. , Bishop E. , Petrillo J.
Published: March 2016

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess the construct validity of the Aberrant Behaviour Checklist‐utility index (ABC‐UI) by examining the relationship between healthcare resource utilisation by patients with fragile X syndrome (FXS) as well as burden experienced by their caregivers.

Method

In 2011, a total of 350 US caregivers of individuals with FXS completed a questionnaire that captured information on FXS‐related burden as well as the ABC‐Community. Using the ABC‐UI, a condition‐specific outcome measure derived from the ABC‐Community, five utility index categories were created: very low (0.00–0.33); low (0.34–0.66); moderate (0.67–0.77); high (0.78–0.89); and very high (0.90–1.00). Multivariable regression models examined the association between the utility value and nine burden‐related outcomes.

Results

Approximately 2% of individuals with FXS were in the very low utility index category, 31% low, 27% moderate, 38% high and 3% very high. The median utility value was 0.74. Women with FXS and adults 18 years and older had higher values. Regression results indicate that individuals with higher utility values were more likely to have fewer specialist visits, use fewer prescription medications, need fewer hours of unpaid caregiving, inflict fewer caregiver injuries and have caregivers with fewer mental health provider visits.

Conclusions

The ABC‐UI appears to function well as condition‐specific outcome measure, and as an indicator of health‐related quality‐of‐life and economic burden in individuals with FXS. Among patients with FXS in the US and their caregivers, significant differences in health care resource utilisation and burden exist across health state utility categories.
On Enhancing Shareholder Control: A (Dodd‐) Frank Assessment of Proxy Access
Authors: COHN JONATHAN B. , GILLAN STUART L. , HARTZELL JAY C.
Published: March 2016

We use events related to a proxy access rule passed by the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2010 as natural experiments to study the valuation effects of changes in shareholder control. We find that valuations increase (decrease) following increases (decreases) in perceived control, especially for firms that are poorly performing, have shareholders likely to exercise control, and where acquiring a stake is relatively inexpensive. These results suggest that an increase in shareholder control from its current level would generally benefit shareholders. However, we find that the benefits of increased control are muted for firms with shareholders whose interests may deviate from value maximization.
Treatment adherence and virological response rates in hepatitis C virus infected persons treated with sofosbuvir‐based regimens: results from ERCHIVES
Authors: Butt Adeel A. , Yan Peng , Shaikh Obaid S. , Chung Raymond T. , Sherman Kenneth E. ,   the ERCHIVES study
Published: March 2016

Background & Aims

Role of non‐adherence upon virological success with newer oral regimens is unknown. We sought to determine the impact of treatment adherence upon virological outcomes in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infected persons on sofosbuvir (SOF)‐based regimens, using pharmacy prescription data as a measure of adherence.

Methods

We analysed HCV infected persons in Electronically Retrieved Cohort of HCV Infected Veterans, who were initiated on SOF‐based regimens, excluding those with human immunodeficiency virus, positive hepatitis‐B surface antigen, hepatocellular carcinoma and missing HCV RNA.

Results

The final dataset included following regimens: SOF+simeprevir (SIM) (n = 1050), SOF+ledipasvir (LDV) (n = 974), SOF+ribavirin (RBV) (n = 663, genotype 2 or 3), and SOF+pegylated interferon (PEG)+RBV (n = 519, genotype 1 or 4). Those treated with a SOF‐based regimen were older and more likely to have cirrhosis, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, higher HCV RNA levels, higher body mass index, compared with 1652 controls receiving a boceprevir‐based (BOC) regimen. Sustained virological response (SVR12) rates for the SOF+SIM and SOF+LDV groups did not decline significantly even when as low as 50% of the full course was prescribed (except SOF+LDV, 90–99% prescriptions had SVR12 of 84.6%; n = 13). SOF+RBV for genotype 2/3 who received 50–80% of the prescriptions, 23/34 (67.6%) achieved SVR12. For persons with genotype 1/4 infection treated with SOF+PEG+RBV, no declines in SVR12 were seen with lower rates of prescriptions (40/43, or 93% SVR12 rate).

Conclusions

Sofosbuvir‐based treatment regimens are highly effective in achieving SVR12. This efficacy is not significantly affected when treated persons receive less than a full prescribed course of treatment.
Hunting cellular mechanisms underlying the spreading of misfolded protein pathology in the brain
Authors: Pecho‐Vrieseling Eline
Published: March 2016

Cell to cell spread of misfolded proteins is a key mechanism in neurodegenerative diseases including Huntington's disease.
Faith in China: religious belief and national narratives amongst young, urban Chinese Protestants
Authors: Entwistle Phil
Published: March 2016

This paper investigates the national narratives of young, urban Protestants in contemporary China. Based on 100 interviews conducted in Beijing and Shenzhen, it argues that in constructing their national narratives, Chinese Protestants display critical selectivity in adopting the values of official party‐state nationalism. They display affection towards China, a sense of responsibility for improving the country and a concern for society's morality, all of which echo official nationalist priorities. However, they are critical of China's political arrangements, dispute the primacy of economic growth and are less hawkish on international and territorial issues. They see no contradiction between their Protestant and Chinese identities, but generally prioritise the former. This selectivity is explained by the fact that Protestantism generally attracts those less satisfied by the social and political status quo, and because of, in Carlson's terms, the ‘boundary‐spanning’ nature of the Protestant identity and morality to which these converts then subscribe.
Nectar robbing impacts pollinator behavior but not plant reproduction
Authors: Hazlehurst Jenny A. , Karubian Jordan O.
Published: March 2016

Trait‐mediated indirect effects (TMIEs) refer to interactions in which the effect of one species on another is mediated by the behavior of a third species. A mechanistic approach that identifies the direction and impact of TMIEs can shed light on why different net outcomes are observed in the same general phenomena across systems. Nectar robbing has variable net effects through TMIEs on animal‐pollinated plants across systems, but the mechanistic steps underlying this range of outcomes are often unclear. To address this knowledge gap, we assessed linkages between nectar robbing, pollinator behavior and plant reproductive success in the Andean tree, Oreocallis grandiflora. We found that robbing in this system led to lower nectar volumes, higher nectar sucrose concentration, and higher nectar viscosity, which together negatively impact nectar quality. This drop in nectar quality was associated with decreased visitation rates by hummingbirds, which might be expected to impact plant reproduction negatively by pollen limitation. However, it was also associated with increased diversity (Shannon's) and evenness in the pollinator community due to reduced visitation by a territorial hummingbird, which might be expected to impact reproduction positively via enhanced genetic diversity of pollen as non‐territorial pollinators forage over greater areas. We measured seed set and mass to distinguish the relative intensity of these two possible outcomes, but found no detectable effect. We tentatively conclude that these two consequences of TMIEs may have balanced each other out to yield a neutral net effect of nectar robbing on plant reproduction, though other explanations are also possible. This study highlights ways in which ecologically important TMIEs may act in opposing directions to mask important ecological forces, and underscores the continued need for detailed study of the mechanisms through which TMIEs operate.
Reform Initiatives in the Budgeting System in India
Authors: Jena Pratap Ranjan
Published: March 2016

The paper examines three major aspects of reform initiatives in budgetary system in India, namely, (i) making the budget performance oriented, (ii) bringing in multi‐year perspective to expenditure planning, and (iii) establishing a rule based budget management system. The reform initiatives have provided basis to pursue further modifications to benefit from the changes. To achieve the intended objectives, the innovations should be accompanied by improvements in associated systems and processes. The performance orientation of the budgeting system requires developing credible performance information, integrating them in the budget decisions, and strengthening the performance management system. Second, the role of multi‐year expenditure planning for effective allocation of resources by countering the entrenched incrementalism in public budget has been acknowledged and the initial progresses need to be reinforced further to establish a credible MTBF system. Third, the desirable elements of next generation fiscal rules should be adopted to improve the effectiveness of the rule based budget management system.
Why Lash Yourself to the Mast? The Case of the Danish “Budget Law”
Authors: Suenson Emil Lobe , Nedergaard Peter , Christiansen Peter Munk
Published: March 2016

The article examines the adoption of the Danish 2012 “Budget Law.” The law added spending ceilings, economic sanctions and mandatory balanced budgets. The law was passed to address the lack of cost control in Danish municipalities and asymmetrical preferences concerning public expenditures and can be interpreted as a credible commitment initiative established to ensure public expenditure control independently of the business cycle. Due to the economic crisis, Danish voters preferred lower public expenditures in 2011 than in 2007. This shift in voter preferences made it easier for the Danish Parliament to pass the Budget Law.
The Decision to Grant
Authors: Kasdin Stuart
Published: March 2016

Why does Congress design some programs as grants to states, thereby relinquishing some control over how federal money gets spent, while designing other programs to be administered centrally? We evaluate this question empirically, finding that one reason Congress chooses a grant design for new programs is when the complexity of state and local spending in a sector is high. When the existing network of programs in a sector is large, with numerous programs potentially overlapping using a grant design for new programs has the potential to enhance the coordination and integration of program resources.
(Re)Defining the Disarticulated Municipality: Budget Accountability for Networked Governance
Authors: Mitchell David , Thurmaier Kurt
Published: March 2016

This study investigates the degree to which municipalities engaged in public management networks use their budget documents to report their contributions, whether the network provides the member municipalities with performance data, and how budgetary decisions regarding the network are made within the member organizations and the network administrative organization itself. An analysis of network and member budget documents and a survey of network members shed light on the complex accountability issues and the role of budget documents and the budgeting process to support and enhance democratic accountability in a network context—which contribute to building collaborative governance regime theory.