bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphological variability in propagules of a desert annual as a function of rainfall patterns at different temporal and spatial scales
Authors: Martínez‐Berdeja Alejandra , Ezcurra Exequiel , Torres Mauricio
Published: March 2015

Organisms living in highly variable environments have to display integrated strategies to deal with both systematic and random variation occurring at different temporal and spatial scales. Two predictions were tested by analysing geographic‐scale patterns of seed size and seed retention (serotiny) in Chorizanthe rigida, a strict winter desert annual that delays seed dispersal and releases propagules after rainfall events: (i) adaptation to systematic environmental cues occurs by means of changes in morphology, and (ii) within‐individual variation in seed size allows a differential response to rainfall cues: while some seeds germinate rapidly others are retained for future rainfall events.

We quantified morphological variation and performed germination experiments on C. rigida propagules (involucres + achenes) from six populations distributed throughout the Mojave and Sonoran deserts covering: (i) a systematic, west‐to‐east, winter‐to‐bi‐seasonal (summer and winter) precipitation gradient and (ii) a winter‐rain unpredictability gradient inferred from long‐term climatic data.

The propagule retention structure (i.e. base area of the pedicel) of C. rigida individuals experiencing bi‐seasonal rainfall is double the size of those that have evolved under a strict winter rainfall regime, showing that populations living in bi‐seasonal environments have higher seed retention, which allows them to avoid releasing seeds to a summer rainfall cue.

Within‐individual variance of propagule size varied significantly between populations and was correlated with winter rainfall variability in each site.

Germination varied as a function of propagule size; smaller seeds germinated more readily than larger seeds. Increased variability in propagule size might result in a more variable germination response.

Under common experimental conditions germination varied significantly among sites and was negatively correlated with mean winter effective precipitation, suggesting that propagules from populations in drier sites have lower germination moisture thresholds.

Synthesis. C. rigida propagules have larger bases in deserts with biseasonal rainfall, which allows them to avoid seed release during summer rainfall cues, and display within‐individual seed variance associated to rainfall unpredictability, a trait often interpreted as a bet‐hedging strategy. Our study provides empirical evidence of an integrated strategy that allows to cope with both random and systematic rainfall variation.
Wide differences in mode of delivery within Europe: risk‐stratified analyses of aggregated routine data from the Euro‐Peristat study
Authors: Macfarlane AJ , Blondel B , Mohangoo AD , Cuttini M , Nijhuis J , Novak Z , Ólafsdóttir HS , Zeitlin J ,   the Euro‐Peristat Scientific Committee
Published: March 2015

Objective

To use data from routine sources to compare rates of obstetric intervention in Europe both overall and for subgroups at higher risk of intervention.

Design

Retrospective analysis of aggregated routine data.

Setting

Thirty‐one European countries or regions contributing data on mode of delivery to the Euro‐Peristat project.

Population

Births in participating countries in 2010.

Methods

Countries provided aggregated data about overall rates of obstetric intervention and about caesarean section rates for specified subgroups.

Main outcome measures

Mode of delivery.

Results

Rates of caesarean section ranged from 14.8% to 52.2% of all births and rates of instrumental vaginal delivery ranged from 0.5% to 16.4%. Overall, there was no association between rates of instrumental vaginal delivery and rates of caesarean section, but similarities were observed between some countries that are geographically close and may share common traditions of practice. Associations were observed between caesarean section rates for women with breech and vertex births and with singleton and multiple births but patterns of association for women who had and had not had previous caesarean sections were more complex.

Conclusions

The persisting wide variations in caesarean section and instrumental vaginal delivery rates point to a lack of consensus about practice and raise questions for further investigation. Further research is needed to explore the impact of differences in clinical guidelines, healthcare systems and their financing and parents’ and professionals’ attitudes to care at delivery.
Using Medical Claims for Policy Effectiveness Surveillance: Reimbursement and Utilization of Abdomen/Pelvis Computed Tomography Scans
Authors: Horný Michal , Morgan Jake R. , Merker Vanessa L.
Published: March 2015

Objective

To quantify changes in private insurance payments for and utilization of abdominal/pelvic computed tomography scans (CTs) after 2011 changes in CPT coding and Medicare reimbursement rates, which were designed to reduce costs stemming from misvalued procedures.

Data Sources

TruvenHealth Analytics MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters database.

Study Design

We used difference‐in‐differences models to compare combined CTs of the abdomen/pelvis to CTs of the abdomen or pelvis only. Our main outcomes were inflation‐adjusted log payments per procedure, daily utilization rates, and total annual payments.

Data Extraction Methods

Claims data were extracted for all abdominal/pelvic CTs performed in 2009–2011 within noncapitated, employer‐sponsored private plans.

Principal Findings

Adjusted payments per combined CTs of the abdomen/pelvis dropped by 23.8 percent (p < .0001), and their adjusted daily utilization rate accelerated by 0.36 percent (p = .034) per month after January 2011. Utilization rate of abdominal‐only or pelvic‐only CTs dropped by 5.0 percent (p < .0001). Total annual payments for combined CTs of the abdomen/pelvis decreased in 2011 despite the increased utilization.

Conclusions

Private insurance payments for combined CTs of the abdomen/pelvis declined and utilization accelerated significantly after 2011 policy changes. While growth in total annual payments was contained in 2011, it may not be sustained if 2011 utilization trends persist.
Land Invasions, Insecure Property Rights and Production Decisions
Authors: Orellano Veronica , Azevedo Paulo Furquim , Saes Maria Sylvia , Nascimento Viviam Ester
Published: March 2015

This paper investigates empirically the effect of land invasions on farm production decisions. The main hypothesis is that more invasions in a region are associated with lower investment, and in particular a bias towards annual crops as opposed to long‐term crops. We use a county‐level dataset for the state of Paraná, Brazil, from 2003 to 2007, with 1,995 observations. The panel data structure allows us to control for fixed effects, such as the formalisation of land titles and land concentration, which might be correlated with the intensity of invasions. An instrumental variable fixed effects model was estimated to avoid other sources of bias. Our main finding is that land invasions are associated with lower long‐term crop production and a higher percentage of annual crops, which could accelerate land degradation, and undermine environmental sustainability.
Silencing of apolipophorin‐III causes abnormal adult morphological phenotype and susceptibility to Listeria monocytogenes infection in Tenebrio molitor
Authors: Patnaik Bharat Bhusan , Patnaik Hongray Howrelia , Park Ki Beom , Jo Yong Hun , Lee Yong Seok , Han Yeon Soo
Published: March 2015

Insect apolipophorin‐III is an exchangeable protein that is abundantly found in the hemolymph, and serves an important role in lipid transport, development, and innate immunity. In this study, we examined the role of apolipophorin‐III (TmapoLp‐III) during the adult eclosion stages of Tenebrio molitor by RNA interference (RNAi) analysis. After silencing of the mRNA transcripts at both larval and pupal stages, adult phenotypic defects were noticed. Defects included the incomplete shedding of pupal skin, shorter extension of the elytra, and improper folding of the hind wings. Most of the adults were malformed and died possibly due to dehydration. We also showed the involvement of TmapoLp‐III in conferring resistance to T. molitor larvae against Listeria monocytogenes infection. Mortality was found to be lower in non‐silenced intoxicated larvae while the TmapoLp‐III silenced larvae showed a significant susceptibility after 7 days post‐injection with a dose of 106 cfu/larvae.
Topographical variation of macular choroidal thickness with myopia
Authors: Lee Kwanghyun , Lee Junwon , Lee Christopher S. , Park Sun Young , Lee Sung Chul , Lee TaekJune
Published: March 2015

Purpose

To study the association between topographical variation of choroidal thickness and myopic features in healthy eyes, using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods

Choroidal thickness was measured at the foveal centre (CTF) and 1.5 mm superiorly (CTS), inferiorly (CTI), nasally (CTN) and temporally (CTT) from the foveal centre, using enhanced depth imaging OCT. The temporal width of β zone of peripapillary atrophy (βPPA) was measured on infrared fundus images. The ratio of βPPA width to vertical disc diameter (PVDR) was calculated to correct retinal magnification.

Results

This study includes 85 eyes from 85 subjects who had a mean age of 53.9 ± 12.9 years, a mean axial length of 23.56 ± 0.82 mm, a mean refractive error of −0.14 ± 1.80 D, a mean βPPA width of 218.6 ± 181.3 μm and a mean PVDR of 0.13 ± 0.11. The CTF was thickest (266.4 ± 81.6), followed by CTS (256.2 ± 82.5 μm), CTT (251.7 ± 68.4 μm), CTI (247.7 ± 90.3 μm) and CTN (211.0 ± 76.5 μm). There were 31 eyes (36.5%) with CTT thicker than CTF. The CTT/CTF negatively correlated with refractive error (p = 0.012) and positively correlated with axial length (p = 0.031), βPPA width (p = 0.003) and PVDR (p = 0.006).

Conclusions

There was a correlation between a thickened choroid, temporal to the foveal centre, with the severity of myopic components in normal eyes. Topographical changes might be induced by stretching of the choroid and sclera towards a temporal direction with eyeball elongation.
The median preoptic nucleus: front and centre for the regulation of body fluid, sodium, temperature, sleep and cardiovascular homeostasis
Authors: McKinley M. J. , Yao S. T. , Uschakov A. , McAllen R. M. , Rundgren M. , Martelli D.
Published: March 2015

Located in the midline anterior wall of the third cerebral ventricle (i.e. the lamina terminalis), the median preoptic nucleus (MnPO) receives a unique set of afferent neural inputs from fore‐, mid‐ and hindbrain. These afferent connections enable it to receive neural signals related to several important aspects of homeostasis. Included in these afferent projections are (i) neural inputs from two adjacent circumventricular organs, the subfornical organ and organum vasculosum laminae terminalis, that respond to hypertonicity, circulating angiotensin II or other humoural factors, (ii) signals from cutaneous warm and cold receptors that are relayed to MnPO, respectively, via different subnuclei in the lateral parabrachial nucleus and (iii) input from the medulla associated with baroreceptor and vagal afferents. These afferent signals reach appropriate neurones within the MnPO that enable relevant neural outputs, both excitatory and inhibitory, to be activated or inhibited. The efferent neural pathways that proceed from the MnPO terminate on (i) neuroendocrine cells in the hypothalamic supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei to regulate vasopressin release, while polysynaptic pathways from MnPO to cortical sites may drive thirst and water intake, (ii) thermoregulatory pathways to the dorsomedial hypothalamic nucleus and medullary raphé to regulate shivering, brown adipose tissue and skin vasoconstriction, (iii) parvocellular neurones in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus that drive autonomic pathways influencing cardiovascular function. As well, (iv) other efferent pathways from the MnPO to sites in the ventrolateral pre‐optic nucleus, perifornical region of the lateral hypothalamic area and midbrain influence sleep mechanisms.
Novel score for prediction of malignant bile duct obstruction based on biochemical and clinical markers
Authors: Meister T. , Uphoff M.‐A. , Heinecke A. , Domagk D. , Kunsch S. , Lindhorst A. , Ellenrieder V. , Heinzow H. S.
Published: March 2015

Background

Early differentiation of malignant from benign bile duct obstruction is of utmost importance.

Aim

To identify biochemical and clinical predictors for malignancy in patients with bile duct obstruction, and establish a predictive model by combining pre‐treatment patient characteristics. A web‐based application was developed for easy assessment of malignant bile duct probability (www.pmal-score.org).

Methods

One thousand hundred and thirty‐five patients [median age 66 (52–75) years, 53% male] with bile duct obstruction of various aetiologies were retrospectively evaluated at our tertiary referral centre. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified factors as independently significant for malignant bile duct obstruction. A predictive risk score was established using ROC analysis and applied to an external validation cohort of 101 patients.

Results

Three hundred and ninety‐four patients had malignant bile duct obstruction proven by surgery, while in 741 patients benign obstruction was observed. Multivariate analysis identified various clinical factors to be predictive for malignancy. On the basis of eight predictors, a risk score for malignancy was developed [X = 0.025 * [age] + 1.239 * [1 if weight loss, otherwise 0] − 0.235 * [1 if pain, otherwise 0] + 0.649 * [1 if diabetes, otherwise 0] + 0.896 * [1 if jaundice, otherwise 0] + 0.109 * [bilirubin] + 0.0007 * [γ‐GT] + 0.0003 * [AP] − 4.374]: A significant correlation between the predicted malignancy and the actual malignancy was found by ROC (AUC: 0.862; 95% CI 0.838–0.886, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

This predictive risk score estimates the risk of malignancy in patients with bile duct obstruction, and it seems to be very accurate. A better prediction enables both earlier diagnosis of malignant obstructive disease and improved management of patients with bile duct obstruction, which may result in reduced morbidity and mortality.
Vincristine activates c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia in vivo
Authors: Bates Darcy J. P. , Lewis Lionel D. , Eastman Alan , Danilov Alexey V.
Published: March 2015

Aims

The authors’ aim was to conduct a proof‐of‐principle study to test whether c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation and Noxa induction occur in peripheral blood chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) cells in patients receiving a vincristine infusion.

Methods

Patients with CLL received 2 mg vincristine by a 5‐min intravenous infusion. Blood samples were collected at baseline and up to 6 h after the vincristine infusion, and assayed for JNK activation, Noxa induction and vincristine plasma concentrations.

Results

Ex vivo treated peripheral CLL cells activated JNK in response to 10–100 nM vincristine in 6 h. Noxa protein expression, while variable, was also observed over this time frame. In CLL patients, vincristine infusion led to rapid (<1 h) JNK phosphorylation in peripheral blood CLL cells which was sustained for at least 4–6 h after the vincristine infusion. Noxa protein expression was not observed in response to vincristine infusion.

Conclusions

This study confirmed that vincristine can activate JNK but not induce Noxa in CLL cells in vivo. The results suggest that novel JNK‐dependent drug combinations with vincristine warrant further investigation.
CXCR2 modulates bone marrow vascular repair and haematopoietic recovery post‐transplant
Authors: Hale Sarah J. M. , Hale Ashley B. H. , Zhang Youyi , Sweeney Dominic , Fisher Nita , van der Garde Mark , Grabowska Rita , Pepperell Emma , Channon Keith , Martin‐Rendon Enca , Watt Suzanne M.
Published: March 2015

Murine models of bone marrow transplantation show that pre‐conditioning regimens affect the integrity of the bone marrow endothelium and that the repair of this vascular niche is an essential pre‐requisite for successful haematopoietic stem and progenitor cell engraftment. Little is known about the angiogenic pathways that play a role in the repair of the human bone marrow vascular niche. We therefore established an in vitro humanized model, composed of bone marrow stromal and endothelial cells and have identified several pro‐angiogenic factors, VEGFA, ANGPT1, CXCL8 and CXCL16, produced by the stromal component of this niche. We demonstrate for the first time that addition of CXCL8 or inhibition of its receptor, CXCR2, modulates blood vessel formation in our bone marrow endothelial niche model. Compared to wild type, Cxcr2−/− mice displayed a reduction in bone marrow cellularity and delayed platelet and leucocyte recovery following myeloablation and bone marrow transplantation. The delay in bone marrow recovery correlated with impaired bone marrow vascular repair. Taken together, our data demonstrate that CXCR2 regulates bone marrow blood vessel repair/regeneration and haematopoietic recovery, and clinically may be a therapeutic target for improving bone marrow transplantation.
Effect of tyrphostin AG879 on Kv4.2 and Kv4.3 potassium channels
Authors: Yu Haibo , Zou Beiyan , Wang Xiaoliang , Li Min
Published: March 2015

Background and Purpose

A‐type potassium channels (IA) are important proteins for modulating neuronal membrane excitability. The expression and activity of Kv4.2 channels are critical for neurological functions and pharmacological inhibitors of Kv4.2 channels may have therapeutic potential for Fragile X syndrome. While screening various compounds, we identified tyrphostin AG879, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, as a Kv4.2 inhibitor from. In the present study we characterized the effect of AG879 on cloned Kv4.2/Kv channel‐interacting protein 2 (KChIP2) channels.

Experimental Approach

To screen the library of pharmacologically active compounds, the thallium flux assay was performed on HEK‐293 cells transiently‐transfected with Kv4.2 cDNA using the Maxcyte transfection system. The effects of AG879 were further examined on CHO‐K1 cells expressing Kv4.2/KChIP2 channels using a whole‐cell patch‐clamp technique.

Key Results

Tyrphostin AG879 selectively and dose‐dependently inhibited Kv4.2 and Kv4.3 channels. In Kv4.2/KChIP2 channels, AG879 induced prominent acceleration of the inactivation rate, use‐dependent block and slowed the recovery from inactivation. AG879 induced a hyperpolarizing shift in the voltage‐dependence of the steady‐state inactivation of Kv4.2 channels without apparent effect on the V1/2 of the voltage‐dependent activation. The blocking effect of AG879 was enhanced as channel inactivation increased. Furthermore, AG879 significantly inhibited the A‐type potassium currents in the cultured hippocampus neurons.

Conclusion and Implications

AG879 was identified as a selective and potent inhibitor the Kv4.2 channel. AG879 inhibited Kv4.2 channels by preferentially interacting with the open state and further accelerating their inactivation.
Thymic stromal lymphopoietin deficiency attenuates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Eckhardt J , Döbbeler M , König C , Kuczera K , Kuhnt C , Ostalecki C , Zinser E , Mak T W , Steinkasserer A , Lechmann M
Published: March 2015

In the present study we examined the role of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Here, we report that TSLP knock-out (KO) mice display a delayed onset of disease and an attenuated form of EAE. This delayed onset was accompanied by a reduced number of encephalitogenic T helper type 1 (Th1) cells in the central nervous system (CNS) of TSLP KO mice. In addition, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells from CNS of TSLP KO mice show a reduced activation status in comparison to wild-type mice. It is noteworthy that we could also show that lymph node cells from TSLP KO mice expanded less efficiently and that interleukin (IL)-6-, interferon (IFN)-γ and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels were reduced. Furthermore, CD3+ T cells isolated in the preclinical phase from myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein peptide 35–55 (MOG35–55)-immunized TSLP KO mice showed a reduced response after secondary exposure to MOG35–55, indicating that differentiation of naive T cells into MOG35–55-specific effector and memory T cells was impaired in KO mice. The addition of recombinant TSLP enhanced T cell proliferation during MOG35–55 restimulation, showing that T cells also respond directly to TSLP. In summary, these data demonstrate that expression of, and immune activation by, TSLP contributes significantly to the immunopathology of EAE.
Investigating the micromorphological differences of the implant–abutment junction and their clinical implications: a pilot study
Authors: Mattheos Nikos , Li Xiaona , Zampelis Antonios , Ma Li , Janda Martin
Published: March 2015

Purpose

The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the morphological micro‐features of three commercially available implant–abutment joints, using compatible and original prosthetic components. Furthermore, possible correlations between the micromorphology and potential functional complications were investigated with the use of finite element analysis.

Material and methods

Three abutments (one original and two compatibles) were torqued on original Straumann RN implants, as according to each of the manufacturer's instructions. The implant–abutment units were sliced in the microtome and photographed under different magnifications (10×–500×) through a scanning electron microscope. Finite element analysis models were reconstructed for each of the implant–abutment units using the precise measurements from the SEM. Differences in stress, strain and deformation for the three different abutments were then calculated using ANSYS Workbench v13.

Results

Major dimensional differences were identified between all studied contact areas of the three units. The tight contact in the implant shoulder was similar in all three units, but engagement of the internal connection and, in particular, the anti‐rotation elements was seriously compromised in the compatible abutments. One compatible abutment demonstrated compromised engagement of the abutment screw as well. Equivalent stress and strain in the FEA were much higher for the compatible abutments. An evaluation of the sequence of preload application revealed differences in the pattern of deformation between the original and compatible abutments, which can have serious clinical implications.

Conclusion

Compatible abutments can present critical morphological differences from the original ones. The differences in the cross‐sectional geometry result in large differences in the overall contact areas, both in terms of quality and quantity which could have serious implications for the long‐term stability of the prosthesis.
A Generic Ensemble Approach to Estimate Multidimensional Likelihood in Bayesian Classifier Learning
Authors: Aryal Sunil , Ting Kai Ming
Published: March 2015

In Bayesian classifier learning, estimating the joint probability distribution p(x,y) or the likelihood p(x|y) directly from training data is considered to be difficult, especially in large multidimensional data sets. To circumvent this difficulty, existing Bayesian classifiers such as Naive Bayes, BayesNet, and AηDE have focused on estimating simplified surrogates of p(x,y) from different forms of one‐dimensional likelihoods.

Contrary to the perceived difficulty in multidimensional likelihood estimation, we present a simple generic ensemble approach to estimate multidimensional likelihood directly from data. The idea is to aggregate pi(x|y) estimated from a random subsample of data
. This article presents two ways to estimate multidimensional likelihoods using the proposed generic approach and introduces two new Bayesian classifiers called ENNBayes and MassBayes that estimate pi(x|y) using a nearest‐neighbor density estimation and a probability estimation through feature space partitioning, respectively.

Unlike the existing Bayesian classifiers, ENNBayes and MassBayes have constant training time and space complexities and they scale better than existing Bayesian classifiers in very large data sets. Our empirical evaluation shows that ENNBayes and MassBayes yield better predictive accuracy than the existing Bayesian classifiers in benchmark data sets.
Document Clustering With Dual Supervision Through Feature Reweighting
Authors: Hu Yeming , Milios Evangelos E. , Blustein James
Published: March 2015

Traditional semi‐supervised clustering uses only limited user supervision in the form of instance seeds for clusters and pairwise instance constraints to aid unsupervised clustering. However, user supervision can also be provided in alternative forms for document clustering, such as labeling a feature by indicating whether it discriminates among clusters. This article thus fills this void by enhancing traditional semi‐supervised clustering with feature supervision, which asks the user to label discriminating features during defining (labeling) the instance seeds or pairwise instance constraints. Various types of semi‐supervised clustering algorithms were explored with feature supervision. Our experimental results on several real‐world data sets demonstrate that augmenting the instance‐level supervision with feature‐level supervision can significantly improve document clustering performance.
An efficient method for solid‐colour and multicolour region segmentation in real yarn‐dyed fabric images
Authors: Luo Lin , Shen Hui‐Liang , Shao Si‐Jie , Xin John H
Published: March 2015

This paper presents an efficient approach to solid‐colour and multicolour region segmentation in real yarn‐dyed fabric images. The approach is based on a novel model describing the spectral response of a multispectral imaging system to yarn‐dyed fabrics. The model indicates that solid‐colour regions cannot be distinguished from multicolour regions in terms of reflectance, tristimulus, or CIELAB values owing to a geometric term representing the influence of fabric surface condition on measured colours. The geometric term makes it difficult to determine the segmentation thresholds of CIEXYZ and CIELAB colour histograms. However, solid‐colour and multicolour regions can be detected in CIExyY space because chromaticity coordinates are impervious to the geometric term. The CIExyY histograms of a solid‐colour region accord with one Gaussian distribution, but those of a multicolour region accord with a combination of two Gaussian distributions. The CIEXYZ, CIELAB, and CIExyY colour distributions of both solid‐colour and multicolour yarn‐dyed fabrics were analysed in detail in simulation and real experiments. Experimental results show that solid‐colour yarn‐dyed regions can be distinguished from multicolour yarn‐dyed fabric regions by the shapes of CIExyY histograms, but cannot be distinguished by the shapes of CIEXYZ or CIELAB histograms.
Case Study: Community Engagement and Clinical Trial Success: Outreach to African American Women
Authors: Johnson Davalynn A. , Joosten Yvonne A. , Wilkins Consuelo H. , Shibao Cyndya A.
Published: March 2015

This brief report examines how the use of community engagement principles and approaches enhanced clinical trial recruitment and retention. The Community‐Engaged Research Core (CERC), a CTSA‐supported resource designed to facilitate community involvement in clinical and translational research, was consulted to provide assistance with the implementation of the clinical trial, and specifically to enhance participation of the target population—African American women. CERC's key recommendations included: (1) convene a Community Engagement Studio, (2) redesign the recruitment advertisement, (3) simplify the language used to explain the scope of the study, and (4) provide transportation for participants. As a result of these interventions, a comprehensive strategy to recruit, enroll, and retain participants was formulated. After implementation of the plan by the study team, enrollment increased 78% and recruitment goals were met 16 months ahead of schedule. Participant retention and study drug adherence was 100%. We conclude that community engagement is essential to the development of an effective multifaceted plan to improve recruitment of underrepresented groups in clinical trials.
HEALTH CARE INFLATION AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR MONETARY POLICY
Authors: Yagihashi Takeshi , Du Juan
Published: March 2015

Motivated by recent findings on the cyclical movement of both health and health spending, we construct a general equilibrium model that distinguishes health care demand from the demand for other goods. Using this model, we are able to generate inflation dynamics and cyclicality of health that match the US data. When the model is subjected to an expansionary monetary policy shock, it yields different output and inflation responses compared with a two‐sector model with homogeneous demand. We show that the trade‐off between leisure and health spending plays an important role in model dynamics. The model further predicts different degrees of inflation stabilization across sectors when a shift in the monetary policy occurs. (JEL E52, E31, E32, I10)
The effect of competition on species' distributions depends on coexistence, rather than scale alone
Authors: Godsoe William , Murray Rua , Plank Michael J.
Published: March 2015

One of the key problems in ecology is our need to anticipate the set of locations in which a species will be found (hereafter species' distributions). A major source of uncertainty in these models is the role of interactions among species (hereafter biotic interactions). Unfortunately, it is difficult to directly study this problem at large spatial scales and we lack a clear understanding of when biotic interactions shape species' distributions. We show a simple, direct link between the ease of species' coexistence and the importance of competition for shaping species' distributions. We show that increasing the ease of species' coexistence reduces the influence of biotic interactions. Changing the spatial scale of the analysis can reduce the influence of species interactions, but only when it promotes regional coexistence. Using these ideas, we analyze the conditions under which biotic interactions alter species' distributions in a Lotka–Volterra model of competition along an environmental gradient and argue that coexistence theory, rather than scale alone, provides a guide to the influence of species interactions. Our results provide a guide to the facets of biotic interactions that are necessary to anticipate their effects on species distributions. As such, we expect our work will help the development of more realistic distribution models.
Factors shaping latitudinal patterns in communities of arboreal spiders in northern Europe
Authors: Kozlov Mikhail V. , Stańska Marzena , Hajdamowicz Izabela , Zverev Vitali , Zvereva Elena L.
Published: March 2015

Predator effects on herbivores are often referred to as examples of biotic interactions that weaken with latitude, but more studies are needed to test for the generality of this pattern. To further the understanding of large‐scale geographical patterns in abundance and diversity of predatory arthropods, from 2008–2011 we explored spider communities in the canopies of primary forest trees of the boreal zone (Pinus sylvestris, Picea abies, Betula pubescens and B. pendula) along five latitudinal gradients in northern Europe, from 59 to 70°N and from 10 to 60°E. The abundance of arboreal spiders in Norway and Finland was about a half of that in Russia, presumably due to more intensive forest management in Scandinavia. The abundance, taxonomic and functional diversity of arboreal spiders generally decreased with latitude; however, actual weather conditions during the study years had little effect on this pattern. Coniferous species supported higher abundance and diversity of arboreal spiders than birches, but the poleward decrease in either abundance or taxonomic diversity of arboreal spiders did not differ between coniferous and deciduous tree species. In contrast, functional diversity on birches decreased with latitude greater than on coniferous trees. Euryphagous spiders showed stronger decrease with latitude in terms of both abundance and taxonomic diversity than more specialized (steno‐ and oligophagous) spiders. We attribute the general decrease in density and diversity of spiders with latitude to an increased pressure from apex predators (birds) rather than to direct effects of climate or changes in prey abundance. The abundance of spiders declined with the latitude to the greater extent than the densities of their potential prey did, suggesting a decrease in the strength of predator–prey interactions towards the north.
Current treatment options in patients with mastocytosis: status in 2015 and future perspectives
Authors: Arock Michel , Akin Cem , Hermine Olivier , Valent Peter
Published: March 2015

Mastocytosis is a term referring to a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by abnormal mast cell (MC) accumulation in the skin and/or internal organs. In children, the disease involves mostly the skin (cutaneous mastocytosis; CM), whereas in adults, the disease is usually systemic (systemic mastocytosis; SM). Advanced SM variants with end‐organ damage and reduced life expectancy have also been described, but are rare. Clinical signs and symptoms in SM result from excessive mediator release by MCs and, in aggressive forms, from organ failure related to MC infiltration. As a consequence, treatment of indolent SM aims primarily at the control of symptoms caused by MC mediator release. By contrast, in advanced SM, such as aggressive SM, MC leukemia, and MC sarcoma, intensive (chemo)therapy with or without allogeneic stem cell transplantation has to be considered. In addition, activating mutations in KIT (mostly KIT D816V in adults) are found in most patients with SM, so that targeted therapies aimed at blocking mutant KIT variants or/and downstream signaling pathways are currently being developed. Other targets, such as specific surface antigens expressed on neoplastic MCs, might be considered for the development of future therapies in advanced SM.
Improvements in Unmarried African American Parents' Rapport, Communication, and Problem‐Solving Following a Prenatal Coparenting Intervention
Authors: McHale James P. , Salman‐Engin Selin , Coovert Michael D.
Published: March 2015

This report examines effects of a coparenting intervention designed for and delivered to expectant unmarried African American mothers and fathers on observed interaction dynamics known to predict relationship adjustment. Twenty families took part in the six‐session “Figuring It Out for the Child” (FIOC) dyadic intervention offered in a faith‐based human services agency during the third trimester of the mother's pregnancy, and completed a postpartum booster session 1 month after the baby's arrival. Parent referrals for the FIOC program were received from a county Health Department and from OBGYNs and Pregnancy Centers in the targeted community. All intervention sessions were delivered by a trained male–female paraprofessional team whose fidelity to the FIOC manualized curriculum was independently evaluated by a team of trained analysts. At both the point of intake (“PRE”) and again at an exit evaluation completed 3 months postpartum (“POST”), the mothers and fathers were videotaped as they completed two standardized “revealed differences” conflict discussions. Blinded videotapes of these sessions were evaluated using the System for Coding Interactions in Dyads. Analyses documented statistically significant improvements on 8 of 12 variables examined, with effect sizes ranging from moderate to large. Overall, 14 families demonstrated beneficial outcomes, 3 did not improve, and 3 showed some signs of decline from the point of intake. For most interaction processes, PRE to POST improvements were unrelated to degree of adherence the paraprofessional interventionists showed to the curriculum. However, better interventionist competence was related to decreases in partners' Coerciveness and Negativity and Conflict, and to smaller increases in partner Withdrawal. Implications of the work for development and delivery of community‐based coparenting interventions for unmarried parents are discussed.
Effect of vertex singularities on stress intensities near plate free surfaces
Authors: He Z. , Kotousov A. , Berto F.
Published: March 2015

The stress intensity factor (SIF) distribution along the front of a through‐the‐thickness crack is significantly influenced by the presence of the 3D corner (vertex) singularities. All past 3D finite element studies indicated that for mode I, SIF rapidly decreases near the free surface and for mode II, it sharply increases. From the previous numerical simulations, it is unclear what the limiting values of SIF near the surface are and whether these values are infinite or bounded at the vertex point. In this paper, we conduct a careful finite element study and propose a theoretical equation, which describes the SIF behaviour near the vertex. We demonstrate that the asymptotic behaviour of SIF near the surface is governed by the difference in the strength of the corner and edge singularities. Furthermore, we validate our numerical approach and calculations by utilising the invariant properties of J‐integral.
Nitrous oxide fluxes in estuarine environments: response to global change
Authors: Murray Rachel H. , Erler Dirk V. , Eyre Bradley D.
Published: March 2015

Nitrous oxide is a powerful, long‐lived greenhouse gas, but we know little about the role of estuarine areas in the global N2O budget. This review summarizes 56 studies of N2O fluxes and associated biogeochemical controlling factors in estuarine open waters, salt marshes, mangroves, and intertidal sediments. The majority of in situ N2O production occurs as a result of sediment denitrification, although the water column contributes N2O through nitrification in suspended particles. The most important factors controlling N2O fluxes seem to be dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) and oxygen availability, which in turn are affected by tidal cycles, groundwater inputs, and macrophyte density. The heterogeneity of coastal environments leads to a high variability in observations, but on average estuarine open water, intertidal and vegetated environments are sites of a small positive N2O flux to the atmosphere (range 0.15–0.91; median 0.31; Tg N2O‐N yr−1). Global changes in macrophyte distribution and anthropogenic nitrogen loading are expected to increase N2O emissions from estuaries. We estimate that a doubling of current median NO3− concentrations would increase the global estuary water–air N2O flux by about 0.45 Tg N2O‐N yr−1 or about 190%. A loss of 50% of mangrove habitat, being converted to unvegetated intertidal area, would result in a net decrease in N2O emissions of 0.002 Tg N2O‐N yr−1. In contrast, conversion of 50% of salt marsh to unvegetated area would result in a net increase of 0.001 Tg N2O‐N yr−1. Decreased oxygen concentrations may inhibit production of N2O by nitrification; however, sediment denitrification and the associated ratio of N2O:N2 is expected to increase.
Permeability evolution in sorbing media: analogies between organic‐rich shale and coal
Authors: Kumar H. , Elsworth D. , Mathews J.P. , Marone C.
Published: March 2015

Shale gas reservoirs like coalbed methane (CBM) reservoirs are promising targets for geological sequestration of carbon dioxide (CO2). However, the evolution of permeability in shale reservoirs on injection of CO2 is poorly understood unlike CBM reservoirs. In this study, we report measurements of permeability evolution in shales infiltrated separately by nonsorbing (He) and sorbing (CO2) gases under varying gas pressures and confining stresses. Experiments are completed on Pennsylvanian shales containing both natural and artificial fractures under nonpropped and propped conditions. We use the models for permeability evolution in coal (Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering, Under Revision) to codify the permeability evolution observed in the shale samples. It is observed that for a naturally fractured shale, the He permeability increases by approximately 15% as effective stress is reduced by increasing the gas pressure from 1 MPa to 6 MPa at constant confining stress of 10 MPa. Conversely, the CO2 permeability reduces by a factor of two under similar conditions. A second core is split with a fine saw to create a smooth artificial fracture and the permeabilities are measured for both nonpropped and propped fractures. The He permeability of a propped artificial fracture is approximately 2‐ to 3fold that of the nonpropped fracture. The He permeability increases with gas pressure under constant confining stress for both nonpropped and propped cases. However, the CO2 permeability of the propped fracture decreases by between one‐half to one‐third as the gas pressure increases from 1 to 4 MPa at constant confining stress. Interestingly, the CO2 permeability of nonpropped fracture increases with gas pressure at constant confining stress. The permeability evolution of nonpropped and propped artificial fractures in shale is found to be similar to those observed in coals but the extent of permeability reduction by swelling is much lower in shale due to its lower organic content. Optical profilometry is used to quantify the surface roughness. The changes in surface roughness indicate significant influence of proppant indentation on fracture surface in the shale sample. The trends of permeability evolution on injection of CO2 in coals and shales are found analogous; therefore, the permeability evolution models previously developed for coals are adopted to explain the permeability evolution in shales.
Prevalence of and factors associated with prolonged length of stay in older hospitalized medical patients
Authors: Bo Mario , Fonte Gianfranco , Pivaro Federica , Bonetto Martina , Comi Chiara , Giorgis Veronica , Marchese Lorenzo , Isaia Gianluca , Maggiani Guido , Furno Elisabetta , Falcone Yolanda , Isaia Giovanni Carlo
Published: March 2015

Aim

To characterize elderly medical patients and identify factors associated with prolonged length of stay.

Methods

The present prospective observational study evaluated consecutive patients aged ≥65 years admitted in acute geriatric and medical wards. A comprehensive assessment including demographic, clinical, functional and cognitive variables was carried out. Delayed discharge was defined when patients were discharged later than the date they were deemed medically ready for discharge by physicians. The analysis was initially carried out on the total sample and subsequently according to whether hospital admission had been from home, or from intermediate or long‐term facilities.

Results

Among 1568 patients (age 81.3 ± 7.3 years, 712 men), we observed a high prevalence of functional dependence, cognitive impairment, chronic immobilization and frailty (50%, 25%, 20% and 40%, respectively). Overall, delayed discharge occurred in 442 cases – resulting in 2637 days of prolonged hospital stay – and was independently associated with impairment in activities of daily living, frailty, high comorbidity and inappropriate admission. Among patients admitted from home (roughly 90% of the sample), delayed discharge occurred in 392 patients, and was independently associated with cognitive impairment, functional dependence, low severity of comorbidity and inappropriate admission (OR 3.39). Among patients admitted from intermediate or long‐term facilities, lower cognitive impairment and greater severity of functional dependence were independently associated with prolonged stay.

Conclusions

Poor health conditions and high prevalence of geriatric syndromes are extremely common among older medical inpatients. Delayed discharge was mainly observed in patients admitted from home, and associated with cognitive impairment (OR 1.12) and functional dependence (OR 1.49). Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 16: 314–321.
Binding of the monoclonal antibody RP215 to immunoglobulin G in metastatic lung adenocarcinomas is correlated with poor prognosis
Authors: Liu Yang , Liu Dan , Wang Chong , Liao Qinyuan , Huang Jing , Jiang Dongyang , Shao Wenwei , Yin Cheng Cameron , Zhang Youhui , Lee Gregory , Qiu Xiaoyan
Published: March 2015

Aims

Cancer cell‐derived immunoglobulin (Ig)G (cancer‐IgG) has been found to be involved in the pathogenesis and progression of many cancers, including lung cancer. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between cancer‐IgG expression in lung adenocarcinoma (ADC) and clinicopathological characteristics and clinical outcome.

Methods and results

Immunohistochemical analysis was performed using an RP215 monoclonal antibody to determine cancer‐IgG expression in 140 lung ADC patients. Cell migration and invasion were analysed in A549 cell line after short interfering RNA (siRNA) knockdown of IgG and cell sorting by flow cytometry. Our results show that RP215 immunostaining score is correlated significantly with local invasion (P < 0.05) and tumour differentiation (P < 0.05) in ADC. Moreover, RP215 staining was significantly higher in metastatic tumours than in primary tumours (P < 0.0001). The knockdown of IgG resulted in a reduction of cell migration and invasion. In contrast, RP215‐positive cells displayed greater migration and invasion ability than RP215‐negative cells. Additionally, a higher RP215 immunostaining score was associated significantly with poor prognosis.

Conclusions

RP215 staining is correlated strongly with differentiation, local invasion, metastasis and clinical outcome of patients with lung ADC. Our results suggest that RP215 can serve as a biomarker for prognosis of lung ADC.
Protein hydrolysate from tilapia frame: antioxidant and angiotensin I converting enzyme inhibitor properties
Authors: Chuesiang Piyanan , Sanguandeekul Romanee
Published: March 2015

The effect of varying the aminopeptidase concentration and hydrolysis time in the production of a protein hydrolysate from tilapia frame (TFPH) was evaluated in terms of the obtained antioxidant and angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor activities. Minced tilapia frame was subjected to hydrolysis using three concentrations Flavourzyme® 1000 L [Brenntag Ingredients (Thailand) Company Limited (Public), Bangkok, Thailand] [0%, 1% and 2% (w/w)] and two hydrolysis times (0 and 1 h). The enzyme concentration and hydrolysis time both significantly affected the antioxidant and ACE inhibitor properties. The use of 2% (w/w) Flavourzyme® 1000 L for 1 h yielded the highest levels of 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazil free radical scavenging (90.4%), metal chelating (91.8%), thiobarbituric acid activity ratio (81.9%), and ACE inhibition (83.8%). In addition, this TFPH contained a higher net amount of amino acids and a larger peptide molecular weight distribution compared to the unhydrolysed tilapia frame supernatant. Thus, TFPH may be a suitable supplement to improve the functionality of food products.
Effect of the addition of whole‐grain wheat flour and of extrusion process parameters on dietary fibre content, starch transformation and mechanical properties of a ready‐to‐eat breakfast cereal
Authors: Oliveira Ludmilla C. , Rosell Cristina M. , Steel Caroline J.
Published: March 2015

This study evaluates the effect of the incorporation of whole‐grain wheat flour (WGWF) and of extrusion process parameters on the nutritional and technological quality of breakfast cereals. The corn flour‐based breakfast cereals were elaborated in a twin‐screw extruder following a rotatable central composite design with varied WGWF (0–100%), feed moisture (14–24%) and zones 3 and 4 barrel temperature (76–143 °C). Dietary fibre and resistant starch were significantly increased with WGWF addition. Total and digestible starch showed a decrease when WGWF increased. The RVA parameters were significantly affected by all the extrusion conditions and WGWF content. The cell structure of the extrudates was dependent of WGWF and moisture.