bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life Expectancy during the Great Depression in Eleven European Countries
Authors: Bruckner Tim A. , Noymer Andrew , Catalano Ralph A.
Published: March 2013

The recent global economic recession has renewed interest in knowing whether a declining economy affects population health. Understanding the extreme case of the Great Depression may inform the current debate as well as theory regarding biological and behavioral adaptations to unwanted economic change. We test the hypothesis, recently suggested in the literature, that period life expectancy at birthimprovedduring the Great Depression. We applied time‐series methods to annual period life expectancy data of the civilian population from eleven European countries. Methods control for trends and other forms of autocorrelation in life expectancy that could induce spurious associations. We cannot reject the null hypothesis that period life expectancy at birth during the Great Depression remained within the interval forecasted from historical values. Additional analyses using an automated, rule‐based methodology also cannot reject the null hypothesis. During the most severe phase of the Great Depression, period life expectancy in eleven European countries generally did not rise above expected levels.
Comparative study of hyaluronic acid fillers by in vitro and in vivo testing
Authors: Park K.Y. , Kim H.K. , Kim B.J.
Published: March 2013

Background

Numerous hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers seem to have similar characteristics, although manufacturers insist that monophasic and biphasic HA fillers are different in many ways. Little information regarding this is available in the literature.

Objectives

To determine characteristics of monophasic fillers vs. biphasic fillers.

Material and methods

We tested three different (two biphasic and one monophasic) HA fillers both in vitro and in vivo. In the in vitro assay, cell toxicity, resistance to enzyme degradation, syringeability and morphology of particles were tested. In vivo, the efficacy and safety were investigated in the dorsal skin of hairless mice.

Results

There was no cell toxicity in any of the three HA fillers. Resistance to enzymatic degradation and syringeability were better in the two biphasic HA fillers than in the monophasic filler. In particle morphology test, gel type monophasic HA filler was also found as a particle type, although there was a slight difference. Volume assessment in animal skin was superior with the monophasic than with the two biphasic HA fillers.

Conclusion

Biphasic HA fillers have some advantages in hyaluronidase resistance, syringeability and lower risk for overcorrection, while monophasic HA fillers may be more suitable for volume augmentation due to swelling capacity.
Effects of family presence on the content and dynamics of the clinical encounter among diabetic patients
Authors: Katerndahl David , Parchman Michael
Published: March 2013

Rationale, aims and objectives

Primary care visits often include a family member or friend. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the presence of a family member on the visit content and dynamics among diabetic patients in Family Medicine settings.

Method

Encounters of patients with type 2 diabetes from 20 primary care clinics were audio‐recorded and transcribed. Encounters were coded using the Davis Observation Codes, classifying content into 20 different categories at 15‐second intervals. A random sample of 30 patients with family members was selected; 30 encounters in which no family was present were then matched to the randomly selected patients so that they would be similar group‐wise in A1C level, length of visit, level of distress and discussion of non‐patient family problems for analysis using orbital decomposition, an analytic technique based on symbolic dynamics in which categorical time series data are used to identify amount of complexity present and recurrent patterns of strings.

Results

Visits were more linear if family members were present. When family members were present, 90‐second strings of preventive services and evaluation/feedback were observed while 90 seconds of exercise discussion occurred when they were absent. Visits without family members tended to include more chatting, compliance discussion and nutrition counselling, while those with family members included more patient questions and evaluation/feedback. Finally, the sequence of history‐to‐planning‐to‐evaluation was observed when family were absent, but evaluation‐to‐planning‐to‐history when family were present.

Conclusion

The presence of a family member was associated with increased linearity and recurrent patterns that focused more on evaluation/feedback, preventive services, and patient questions, and less on chatting, exercise, compliance and nutrition in diabetic encounters.
An improved method for estimating the median annual flood for small ungauged catchments in the United Kingdom
Authors: MacDonald D.E. , Fraser R.J.
Published: March 2013

This paper presents a new regression equation to estimate the median annual maximum instantaneous flow (QMED) for small ungauged catchments in the UK. The regression equation utilises catchment descriptors that have been used extensively for flood and low‐flow hydrology. To derive this equation, a database of 135 gauging stations that drain areas ranging from 0.5 to 25 km2 has been compiled. This is a larger dataset than has been used in previous equivalent studies. Predictions from the new QMED equation were compared to other widely used flood estimation methods, showing a significant improvement in accuracy in some cases. The merits of including a descriptor quantifying urbanisation in the new regression equation are also discussed.
Monitoring and quantifying dynamic physiological processes in live neurons using fluorescence recovery after photobleaching
Authors: Staras Kevin , Mikulincer Dan , Gitler Daniel
Published: March 2013

The direct visualization of subcellular dynamic processes is often hampered by limitations in the resolving power achievable with conventional microscopy techniques. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching has emerged as a highly informative approach to address this challenge, permitting the quantitative measurement of the movement of small organelles and proteins in living functioning cells, and offering detailed insights into fundamental cellular phenomena of physiological importance. In recent years, its implementation has benefited from the increasing availability of confocal microscopy systems and of powerful labeling techniques based on genetically encoded fluorescent proteins or other chemical markers. In this review, we present fluorescence recovery after photobleaching and related techniques in the context of contemporary neurobiological research and discuss quantitative and semi‐quantitative approaches to their interpretation.
Improvements in smoothness of chewing cycles in adults with mandibular prognathism after surgery: a longitudinal study
Authors: Yashiro K. , Takada K.
Published: March 2013

Although adults with mandibular prognathism are known to show impaired smoothness of masticatory jaw movements, it remains uncertain whether/how the surgical‐orthodontic treatment is effective to improve masticatory jaw movements. The aims of this study were (i) to verify whether the surgical‐orthodontic treatment of patients with mandibular prognathism improve smoothness of the chewing jaw movements post‐operatively and, if so, (ii) to examine whether the improved parameters show similar quantities as those of the control subjects. The chewing jaw movements for 13 patients with mandibular prognathism were recorded at pre‐ and post‐treatment stages. The patient group was divided into two groups: Class IIIclosed showed full occlusal contact at the habitual intercuspal position, whereas Class IIIopen showed inability of occlusal contact between the upper and lower anterior teeth. The control group (CG) consisted of 52 subjects having acceptably good occlusion. The normalised jerk cost (NJC), movement duration and peak velocity in jaw closing were compared. For both Class IIIopen and Class IIIclosed groups, statistical comparisons revealed that the NJC and movement duration were decreased after the treatment, whereas the peak velocity was increased (all P < 0·01). For the Class IIIopen, these quantities at the post‐treatment stage did not show any significant differences compared with those for the CG. It is concluded that the smoothness of chewing jaw movements for patient with mandibular prognathism were improved after treatment, and for the patients with anterior open bite at pre‐treatment, the post‐operatively achieved smoothness of jaw‐closing movements did not differ from those of the CG.
Bispinodinium angelaceum gen. et sp. nov. (Dinophyceae), a new sand‐dwelling dinoflagellate from the seafloor off Mageshima Island, Japan1
Authors: Yamada Norico , Terada Ryuta , Tanaka Ayumi , Horiguchi Takeo
Published: March 2013

A new athecate dinoflagellate, Bispinodinium angelaceum N. Yamada et Horiguchi gen. et sp. nov., is described from a sand sample collected on the seafloor at a depth of 36 m off Mageshima Island, subtropical Japan. The dinoflagellate is dorsiventrally compressed and axi‐symmetric along the sulcus. The morphology resembles that of the genus Amphidinium sensu lato by having a small epicone that is less than one third of the total cell length. However, it has a new type of apical groove, the path of which traces the outline of a magnifying glass. The circular component of this path forms a complete circle in the center of the epicone and the straight “handle” runs from the sulcus to the circular component. Inside the cell, a pair of elongated fibrous structure termed here the “spinoid apparatus” extends from just beneath the circular apical groove to a point near the nucleus. Each of two paired structures consists of at least 10 hyaline fibers and this is a novel structure found in dinoflagellates. Phylogenetic analyses based on the SSU and LSU RNA genes did not show any high bootstrap affinities with currently known athecate dinoflagellates. On the basis of its novel morphological features and molecular signal, we conclude that this dinoflagellate should be described as a new species belonging to a new genus.
Having to stop driving at night because of dangerous sleepiness – awareness, physiology and behaviour
Authors: Åkerstedt TorbjÖrn , Hallvig David , Anund Anna , Fors Carina , Schwarz Johanna , Kecklund Göran
Published: March 2013

A large number of accidents are due to the driver falling asleep at the wheel, but details of this link have not been studied on a real road. The purpose of the present study was to describe the development of sleepiness indicators, leading to the drive being terminated prematurely by the onboard expert driving instructor because of imminent danger. Eighteen individuals participated during a day drive and a night drive on a motorway (both 90 min). Eight drivers terminated (N) prematurely (after 43 min) because of sleep‐related imminent danger [according to the driving instructor or their own judgement (two cases)]. The results showed very high sleepiness ratings (8.5 units on the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale) immediately before termination (<7 at a similar time interval for those 10 who completed the drive). Group N also showed significantly higher levels of sleep intrusions on the electroencephalography/electro‐oculography (EEG/EOG) than those who completed the drive (group C). The sleep intrusions were increased in group N during the first 40 min of the night drive. During the day drive, sleep intrusions were increased significantly in group N. The night drive showed significant increases of all sleepiness indicators compared to the day drive, but also reduced speed and driving to the left in the lane. It was concluded that 44% of drivers during late‐night driving became dangerously sleepy, and that this group showed higher perceived sleepiness and more sleep intrusions in the EEG/EOG.
Genetic and environmental influences on sleep quality in middle‐aged men: a twin study
Authors: Genderson Margo R. , Rana Brinda K. , Panizzon Matthew S. , Grant Michael D. , Toomey Rosemary , Jacobson Kristen C. , Xian Hong , Cronin‐Golomb Alice , Franz Carol E. , Kremen William S. , Lyons Michael J.
Published: March 2013

Poor sleep quality is a risk factor for a number of cognitive and physiological age‐related disorders. Identifying factors underlying sleep quality are important in understanding the etiology of these age‐related health disorders. We investigated the extent to which genes and the environment contribute to subjective sleep quality in middle‐aged male twins using the classical twin design. We used the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index to measure sleep quality in 1218 middle‐aged twin men from the Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging (mean age = 55.4 years; range 51–60; 339 monozygotic twin pairs, 257 dizygotic twin pairs, 26 unpaired twins). The mean PSQI global score was 5.6 [SD = 3.6; range 0–20]. Based on univariate twin models, 34% of variability in the global PSQI score was due to additive genetic effects (heritability) and 66% was attributed to individual‐specific environmental factors. Common environment did not contribute to the variability. Similarly, the heritability of poor sleep—a dichotomous measure based on the cut‐off of global PSQI>5—was 31%, with no contribution of the common environment. Heritability of six of the seven PSQI component scores (subjective sleep quality, sleep latency, sleep duration, habitual sleep efficiency, sleep disturbances, and daytime dysfunction) ranged from 0.15 to 0.31, whereas no genetic influences contributed to the use of sleeping medication. Additive genetic influences contribute to approximately one‐third of the variability of global subjective sleep quality. Our results in middle‐aged men constitute a first step towards examination of the genetic relationship between sleep and other facets of aging.
Silicon–vegetation interaction in multiple ecosystems: a review
Authors: Schoelynck Jonas , Müller Frauke , Vandevenne Floor , Bal Kris , Barão Lúcia , Smis Adriaan , Opdekamp Wout , Meire Patrick , Struyf Eric
Published: March 2013

Question

How does the interaction between silicon (Si) and vegetation affect local and global ecological processes, higher levels of ecological organization, and terrestrial‐ and watershed‐scale Si fluxes?

Location

We selected several ecosystems throughout the world, from river headwaters to estuaries, being examples of (i) terrestrial vegetation, (ii) aquatic and floodplain vegetation, and (iii) tidal wetland vegetation.

Methods

We provide examples of the importance of linking Si use by terrestrial and aquatic vegetation, to larger‐scale Si flux consequences towards and through rivers. Cross‐disciplinary studies achieve the best understanding of vegetation effects on the global Si cycle, and the role of Si as a plant functional trait.

Conclusion

Si use by plants has not always received the research attention of other elements. Yet, today the importance of Si for plant functioning is slowly becoming better understood. Silicon is a crucial element for many plant species, being important for decomposition processes, plant competitiveness and stress tolerance. The inclusion by vegetation scientists of Si uptake as a plant functional trait is important to assess links between plant physiology, plant distribution and plant tolerance to environmental changes, but also to understand the role of vegetation on Si fluxes through the watershed. However, lack of knowledge regarding the biological control of the Si cycle hinders accurate quantification. Only a concerted effort bringing scientists together from a broad array of disciplines will provide this new direction for research on vegetation–Si cycling.
Small‐scale disturbance and stand structure dynamics in an old‐growth Picea abies forest over 54 yr in central Sweden
Authors: Hytteborn Håkan , Verwijst Theo
Published: March 2013

Questions

Can assumptions of the existence of spatially distinct patches (delineated structurally homogeneous parts of the forest, being either areas consisting of canopy trees or areas without canopy trees but in an early or later regenerative phase) and of directional development over time of the vegetation in such patches, as implied by current theory of storm gap dynamics, be verified by remapping previous study sites?

Location

Natural, unmanaged boreo‐nemoral spruce‐dominated forest in eastern central Sweden.

Methods

By re‐mapping three plots, ca, 50 yr after the first inventory, we studied the structure and dynamics of gaps (patches without canopy tree cover) and major tree populations. The old and new maps allowed us to compare two independent assessments of the forest dynamics: one based on tree population changes and one on changes in gap area over time.

Results

The current population structure could partly be described through the earlier‐encountered structures of the different tree populations and consecutive processes of recruitment and mortality. However, the re‐mapping exercise showed that spatially delineated patches did not develop directionally over time, nor was their development spatially discrete.

Conclusions

Patch dynamics proceeds in such a way that the fate of a single patch may depend on the development of neighbouring patches. As gaps may partly close or merge into larger gaps, and as gap disappearance rate is a function of actual gap size, performance of an initially delimited patch is largely determined by developments in neighbouring patches and cannot be predicted from its momentary patch characteristics. Consequently, we propose an ‘open matrix model’ to describe the changes in a boreo‐nemoral spruce forest, rather than a ‘storm gap dynamics’ model.
Cardiac Microvascular Rarefaction in Hyperthyroidism‐Induced Left Ventricle Dysfunction
Authors: Freitas Felipe , Estato Vanessa , Carvalho Vinícius Frias , Torres Rafael Carvalho , Lessa Marcos Adriano , Tibiriçá Eduardo
Published: March 2013

Objective

The pathophysiology underlying hyperthyroidism‐induced left ventricle (LV) dysfunction and hypertrophy directly involves the heart and indirectly involves the neuroendocrine systems. The effects of hyperthyroidism on the microcirculation are still controversial in experimental models. We investigated the effects of hyperthyroidism on the cardiac function and microcirculation of an experimental rat model.

Methods

Male Wistar rats (170–250 g) were divided into two groups: the euthyroid group (n = 10), which was treated with 0.9% saline solution, and the hyperthyroid group (n = 10), which was treated with l‐thyroxine (600 μg/kg/day, i.p.) during 14 days. An echocardiographic study was performed to evaluate the alterations in cardiac function, structure and geometry. The structural capillary density and the expression of angiotensin II AT1 receptor in the LV were analyzed using histochemistry and immunohistochemistry, respectively.

Results

Hyperthyroidism was found to induce profound cardiovascular alterations, such as systolic hypertension, tachycardia, LV dysfunction, cardiac hypertrophy, and myocardial fibrosis. This study demonstrates the existence of structural capillary rarefaction and the down‐regulation of the cardiac angiotensin II AT1 receptor in the myocardium of hyperthyroid rats in comparison with euthyroid rats.

Conclusions

Microvascular rarefaction may be involved in the pathophysiology of hyperthyroidism‐induced cardiovascular alterations.
Hydrogen Peroxide Mediates Endothelium‐Dependent Dilation of Coronary Arterioles in Obese Rats on a Low‐Carbohydrate Diet
Authors: Focardi Marta , Picchi Andrea , Donnini Sandra , Cameli Matteo , Ziche Marina , Marzilli Mario , Mondillo Sergio
Published: March 2013

Objective

Endothelium‐dependent vasodilation of coronary arterioles is impaired in obese rats and may be improved by a LCD. The aim of this study is to elucidate the mechanism by which this improvement occurs.

Methods

We used four groups of male Zucker rats: lean and obese on either SD or LCD. Coronary arterioles were cannulated and pressurized for diameter measurements during administration of acetylcholine or sodium nitroprusside or during flow. Real‐time PCR was performed to quantify mRNA expression of CuZnSOD and catalase.

Results

The LCD significantly increased endothelium‐dependent dilation in the obese rats. l‐NAME and indomethacin reduced responses to flow and acetylcholine in the lean rats without any effect on the obese on either diet. In contrast, TEA and catalase blocked flow‐dependent and acetylcholine‐induced dilation in the obese on either diet, while no effect was observed on the lean. The LCD in the obese significantly up‐regulated catalase mRNA expression and slightly increased CuZnSOD mRNA levels.

Conclusions

A LCD improves endothelium‐dependent vasodilation of coronary arterioles in obese rats through the production of H2O2 which acts as a hyperpolarizing factor, independent of nitric oxide and PGI2.
On‐eye optical quality of daily disposable contact lenses for different wearing times
Authors: Montés‐Micó Robert , Belda‐Salmerón Lurdes , Ferrer‐Blasco Teresa , Albarrán‐Diego César , García‐Lázaro Santiago
Published: March 2013

Purpose

To quantify the optical quality of various daily disposable contact lenses in vivo and to ascertain its variation in terms of wearing time by means of objective non‐invasive determination of wavefront patterns.

Methods

The crx1 adaptive‐optics system was used to measure the wavefront aberrations in 15 myopic eyes before and at 2‐h intervals after contact lens fitting, over a 12‐h wearing period. Seven types of contact lenses having different material, water content and lens design were evaluated in this study: Dailies Total1, Dailies AquaComfort Plus, Proclear 1 Day, 1‐Day Acuvue TruEye, 1‐Day Acuvue moist, SofLens daily disposable and Clariti 1‐Day. The aberration data were analysed by fitting Zernike polynomials up to the 5th‐order for 3 and 5‐mm pupils. The optical quality under each condition and at each point in time was described by means of the Root‐Mean‐Square (RMS) value of wavefront aberration, Modulation Transfer Function (MTF), Point Spread Function and cut‐off spatial frequency.

Results

A RMS increase was observed after contact lens fitting as well as over time, both for a 3‐mm and a 5‐mm pupil. Each type of lens induced a different amount of wavefront aberrations, which vary over time also in a different manner. Dailies Total1 showed the lowest RMS values both at baseline and at the end of the day. In addition, Dailies Total1 provided the best MTF out of all the contact lenses that were assessed. These observations were reflected in higher cut‐off spatial frequencies and visual resolution both at baseline and after 12 h of wearing time.

Conclusions

Aberrometry makes it possible to analyse accurately and in vivo the optical quality of contact lenses and to assess how lenses having different characteristics – such as material or water content – behave for different wearing times. These variations across contact lenses may result in differences in visual performance.
The MILD Procedure
Authors: Racz Gabor B. , Heavner James E. , Bosscher Hemmo , Helm Standiford
Published: March 2013

We are following with great interest the increasing generally favorable impressions of the long‐term results of the MILD (minimally invasive lumbar decompression) procedure for treating spinal stenosis due to hypertrophied ligamentum flavum (LF). We are also influenced by the cautionary surgical observations and opinions of Tumialan et al and publications about the lack of efficacy or placebo effect. The impression indeed has been virtual safety of the MILD procedure, but Tumialan et al describe some major complications resulting from the procedure. An algorithm for clinical use is needed.
Linking genes of unknown function with abiotic stress responses by high‐throughput phenotype screening
Authors: Luhua Song , Hegie Alicia , Suzuki Nobuhiro , Shulaev Elena , Luo Xiaozhong , Cenariu Diana , Ma Vincent , Kao Stephanie , Lim Jennie , Gunay Meryem Betul , Oosumi Teruko , Lee Seung Cho , Harper Jeffery , Cushman John , Gollery Martin , Girke Thomas , Bailey‐Serres Julia , Stevenson Rebecca A. , Zhu Jian‐Kang , Mittler Ron
Published: March 2013

Over 13% of all genes in the Arabidopsis thaliana genome encode for proteins classified as having a completely unknown function, with the function of >30% of the Arabidopsis proteome poorly characterized. Although empirical data in the form of mRNA and proteome profiling experiments suggest that many of these proteins play an important role in different biological processes, their functional characterization remains one of the major challenges in modern biology. To expand the annotation of genes with unknown function involved in the response of Arabidopsis to different environmental stress conditions, we selected 1007 such genes and tested the response of their corresponding homozygous T‐DNA insertional mutants to salinity, oxidative, osmotic, heat, cold and hypoxia stresses. Depending on the specific abiotic stresses tested, 12–31% of mutants had an altered stress‐response phenotype. Interestingly, 832 out of 1007 mutants showed tolerance or sensitivity to more than one abiotic stress treatment, suggesting that genes of unknown function could play an important role in abiotic stress‐response signaling, or general acclimation mechanisms. Further analysis of multiple stress‐response phenotypes within different populations of mutants revealed interesting links between acclimation to heat, cold and oxidative stresses, as well as between sensitivity to ABA, osmotic, salinity, oxidative and hypoxia stresses. Our findings provide a significant contribution to the biological characterization of genes with unknown function in Arabidopsis and demonstrate that many of these genes play a key role in the response of plants to abiotic stresses.
Willow seedlings from photooxidized seeds accelerate cotyledon death and anticipate first leaf emergence: a histological and biochemical study following germination
Authors: Roqueiro Gonzalo , Causin Fabio , Olle‐Resa Carolina , Maroder Horacio , Maldonado Sara
Published: March 2013

In willow seeds, photooxidative damage is mainly restricted to the outer cotyledonary tissues, significantly reducing normal germination. Here we analyzed the damage generated in cotyledonary tissues and investigated whether the increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in seedlings from photooxidized seeds can affect the morphogenetic capacity of the shoot apical meristem. Seeds were photooxidized under different light intensities and the evolution of the damage during seedling growth was studied by light and transmission electron microscopies. The level of lipid peroxidation and changes in antioxidant capacity were measured following the time course of superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase and guaiacol peroxidase enzyme activities, and the effect of photooxidative stress on the genesis of new leaf primordia and lateral roots was examined. Early and active endocytosis and autophagy, changes in chloroplast morphology, as well as the accumulation and diffusion of ROS all play important roles in the early cell death observed in cotyledonary tissues. Following germination, seedlings from photooxidized seeds anticipated the emergence of first leaves, which complemented the altered functionality of the damaged cotyledons.
Country Differences in Material Deprivation inEurope
Authors: Bárcena‐Martín E. , Lacomba B. , Moro‐Egido A. I. , Pérez‐Moreno S.
Published: March 2013

This paper assesses to what extent differences in the characteristics of individuals (micro‐level perspective) and country‐specific factors (macro‐level perspective) can explain country differences with respect to material deprivation levels. Thus, our work aims to simultaneously consider the macro dimension and the predominantly individually‐oriented study field of material deprivation using multilevel techniques. We make use of theEuropeanUnionStatistics onIncome andLivingConditions. Our results show that country‐specific factors seem to be much more relevant than individual effects in explaining country differences in material deprivation. We estimate that the introduction of country‐specific factors reduces the proportion of total variance due to between‐country differences in deprivation by 72.7 percent, while individual‐level variables reduce this proportion by only 9.4 percent. We also show, through interaction variables, that the effect of sociodemographic characteristics can be shaped by institutional and structural factors, especially by the level ofGDP.
A Separable Model for Dynamic Networks
Authors: Krivitsky Pavel N. , Handcock Mark S.
Published: March 2013

Models of dynamic networks—networks that evolve over time—have manifold applications. We develop a discrete time generative model for social network evolution that inherits the richness and flexibility of the class of exponential family random-graph models. The model—a separable temporal exponential family random-graph model—facilitates separable modelling of the tie duration distributions and the structural dynamics of tie formation. We develop likelihood-based inference for the model and provide computational algorithms for maximum likelihood estimation. We illustrate the interpretability of the model in analysing a longitudinal network of friendship ties within a school.
A Test for Second-Order Stationarity and Approximate Confidence Intervals for Localized Autocovariances for Locally Stationary Time Series
Authors: Nason Guy
Published: March 2013

Many time series are not second order stationary and it is not appropriate to analyse them by using methods designed for stationary series. The paper introduces a new test for second-order stationarity that detects kinds of departures from stationarity that are different from those based on Fourier methods. The new test is also computationally fast, designed to work with Gaussian and a wide range of non-Gaussian time series, and can locate non-stationarities in time and scale. The test is demonstrated on earthquake, explosion, infant electrocardiogram and simulated time series showing varying degrees of stationarity. The second main contribution develops approximate confidence intervals for time varying autocovariances for locally stationary series as the usual bands computed for stationary series are not appropriate. Our new bands enable practitioners to assess time varying autocovariances statistically and are exhibited on localized autocovariances of explosion and simulated time series.
Intrinsic and extrinsic controls of spatial and temporal variations in modern fluvial tufa sedimentation: A thirteen‐year record from a semi‐arid environment
Authors: Arenas Concha , Vázquez‐Urbez Marta , Auqué Luis , Sancho Carlos , Osácar Cinta , Pardo Gonzalo
Published: March 2013

Sedimentological and hydrochemical parameters of the River Piedra (north‐east Spain) were monitored every six months (from 1999 to 2012) at 24 sites, at which tablets were installed all along the river. The river water is of HCO3–SO4–Ca type and is notably influenced by inputs from upstream karstic springs. Tufa deposition was first detected 8 km downstream of these springs and greatly increased from there, primarily along the steeper stretch (i.e. within the Monasterio de Piedra Natural Park); then, deposition decreased through the most downstream stretch, with smaller ground water inputs. The spatial evolution of the tufa thickness, with parallel variations of PWP (Plummer, Wigley, Parkhurst) rates, was thus determined by the river water pCO2 which was controlled by ground water inputs and by the river bed slope. Five fluvial subenvironments and seven sedimentary facies were characterized. The water flow conditions are the primary factor responsible for the distinct deposition rates of facies, mainly through CO2‐outgassing. Stromatolites and moss‐tufa and alga‐tufa had the highest rates, whereas loose tufa formed in slow‐flowing water and tufa of spray areas had thinner deposition. A six‐month pattern in the deposition rate was detected through thickness measurements. That pattern was parallel to the seasonal PWP rates. The increased deposition during warm periods (spring and summer; mean: 5·08 mm) compared with cool periods (autumn and winter; mean: 2·77 mm) is linked chiefly to temperature, which controlled the seasonal changes in the physico‐chemical and biological processes; this finding is supported by a principal components analysis. Seasonal variations of insolation and day duration also contributed to such a deposition pattern. Large discharge events, which provoked erosion of tufa deposits and dilution of water, caused the reversal of the seasonal deposition rate pattern. Stromatolites are likely to preserve the most complete sedimentary record. Although tufas are a potentially sensitive record of climate‐related parameters, erosion is an intrinsic process that may overwhelm the effects of such parameters. This issue should be considered in palaeoclimatic studies based on the tufa record, particularly in semi‐arid conditions.
Treatment‐Resistant Depression and Risk of Suicide
Authors: Pfeiffer Paul N. , Kim Hyungjin M. , Ganoczy Dara , Zivin Kara , Valenstein Marcia
Published: March 2013

We evaluated whether treatment‐resistant depression (TRD) as measured by the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) staging method was associated with suicide in a large U.S. health system. Data from the Veterans Health Administration and the National Death Index were used to conduct a case–control study of patients newly diagnosed with depression who received antidepressant treatment between 2003 and 2006. Suicide cases (N = 499) were matched with nonsuicide controls (N = 1994). Conditional logistic regression was used to assess whether MGH stage at time of suicide (or matched date) was associated with case status, adjusting for patient demographic characteristics, comorbidity, and service use. Results indicated 11.6% of suicide cases had MGH stage 3 or greater (indicating at least two antidepressant trials) compared to 6.4% of controls (p < .001). In adjusted analyses, suicide was not significantly more likely among patients with stage 3 or greater (OR 1.52; 95% CI: 0.98, 2.37) or stages 1.5–2.5 (OR 1.19; 95% CI: 0.91, 1.55) compared to patients with stage 1 or less (<10 weeks of antidepressant medication). Staging TRD using MGH criteria is unlikely to substantially improve suicide risk assessment of depressed patients beyond existing measures contained in health system records.
Identification of a novel HLA‐DRB1*11:129 allele in a Chinese individual by sequence‐based typing
Authors: Kwok J. , Lau R. W. , Halliwell J. , Marsh S. G. E.
Published: March 2013

The new DRB1*11:129 allele differs from the closest matching allele HLA‐DRB1*11:06:01 by one nucleotide substitution in exon 3 at position 623 (G→A).
A novel MICA allele, MICA*069, identified by sequence‐based typing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Gao S.‐Q. , Yang B.‐C. , Xu Y.‐P. , Deng Z.‐H.
Published: March 2013

MICA*069
differs from MICA*010:01 by one nucleotide at position 1118 within exon 6.
Identification of a novel HLA‐B*46:29 allele by polymerase chain reaction sequence‐based typing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Qin F. , Wang W. , He J. , Zhu F.‐M. , Lv H.‐J.
Published: March 2013

HLA‐B*46:29 allele was different from HLA‐B*46:03 by a single nucleotide substitution at position 538 C>T in exon 3.
Some retrospectives on early studies of plant microtubules
Authors: Hepler Peter K. , Pickett‐Heaps Jeremy D. , Gunning Brian E.S.
Published: March 2013

We pay tribute to the seminal paper ‘A microtubule in plant cell fine structure’ by Myron C. Ledbetter and Keith R. Porter (1963) by summarizing the very limited knowledge of plant cell ultrastructure that we had prior to that publication, and, by way of our three retrospective accounts, show how this paper stimulated and influenced subsequent research on plant microtubules. Micrographs of historical interest are presented that are either previously unpublished or from primary publications.
Function of type–2 Arabidopsis hemoglobin in the auxin‐mediated formation of embryogenic cells during morphogenesis
Authors: Elhiti Mohamed , Hebelstrup Kim H. , Wang Aiming , Li Chenlong , Cui Yuhai , Hill Robert D. , Stasolla Claudio
Published: March 2013

Suppression of Arabidopsis GLB2, a type–2 nonsymbiotic hemoglobin, enhances somatic embryogenesis by increasing auxin production. In the glb2 knock‐out line (GLB2−/−), polarization of PIN1 proteins and auxin maxima occurred at the base of the cotyledons of the zygotic explants, which are the sites of embryogenic tissue formation. These changes were also accompanied by a transcriptional upregulation of WUSCHEL (WUS) and SOMATIC EMBRYOGENESIS RECEPTOR KINASE (SERK1), which are markers of embryogenic competence. The increased auxin levels in the GLB2−/− line were ascribed to the induction of several key enzymes of the tryptophan and IAA biosynthetic pathways, including ANTHRANILATE SYNTHASE (α subunit; ASA1), CYTOCHROME P79B2 (CYP79B2) and AMIDASE1 (AMI1). The effects of GLB2 suppression on somatic embryogenesis and IAA synthesis are mediated by increasing levels of nitric oxide (NO) within the embryogenic cells, which repress the expression of the transcription factor MYC2, a well‐characterized repressor of the auxin biosynthetic pathway. A model is proposed in which the suppression of GLB2 reduces the degree of NO scavenging by oxyhemoglobin, thereby increasing the cellular NO concentration. The increased levels of NO repress the expression of MYC2, relieving the inhibition of IAA synthesis and increasing cellular IAA, which is the inductive signal promoting embryogenic competence. Besides providing a model for the induction phase of embryogenesis in vitro, these studies propose previously undescribed functions for plant hemoglobins.
A Stroke of Insight
Authors: Mack William J.
Published: March 2013

A combination of intravenous t-PA and endovascular therapy is not more effective than t-PA alone for treating patients with moderate-to-severe acute ischemic stroke.
Sports injury prevention in your pocket?! Prevention apps assessed against the available scientific evidence: a review
Authors: van Mechelen Daan M , van Mechelen Willem , Verhagen Evert A L M
Published: March 2013

Background

High costs and personal burden follow sports and physical activity-related injuries (SPRI). The last decades’ knowledge on how to prevent SPRIs has grown. Past years’ eHealth is emerging and mobile applications (apps) helping to prevent SPRIs are appearing.

Aim

To review the content of iPhone and iPad apps containing a claim to prevent sports and physical activity-related injuries and to appraise this claim against best available scientific evidence.

Methods

The US iTunes App Store was searched using the keywords ‘injury’, ‘prevention’ and ‘rehabilitation’. Apps within the categories ‘health & fitness’, ‘sports’ and ‘medical’ containing a preventive claim in the app name, description or screenshots were included. Claims were extracted and a search for best available evidence was performed.

Results

Eighteen apps met our inclusion criteria. Four of these apps contained claims for which evidence was available: three apps covered ankle sprains and provided information on taping or neuromuscular training. Of these three apps, one app also provided information on prevention of dental injury with mouth guards. One app provided a routine to prevent anterior cruciate ligament injury. The main focus of the five apps was running injury prevention; for their content evidence of absence of efficacy was found. For nine apps no evidence supporting their content was found.

Conclusions

f 18 apps included, only four contained claims that could be supported by available literature and five apps contained false claims. This lack of scientifically sound apps provides an opportunity for caretakers to develop apps with evidence-based claims to prevent SPRIs.
Spectrum of novel mutations found in Waardenburg syndrome types 1 and 2: implications for molecular genetic diagnostics
Authors: Wildhardt Gabriele , Zirn Birgit , Graul-Neumann Luitgard M , Wechtenbruch Juliane , Suckfüll Markus , Buske Annegret , Bohring Axel , Kubisch Christian , Vogt Stefanie , Strobl-Wildemann Gertrud , Greally Marie , Bartsch Oliver , Steinberger Daniela
Published: March 2013

Objectives

Till date, mutations in the genesPAX3andMITFhave been described in Waardenburg syndrome (WS), which is clinically characterised by congenital hearing loss and pigmentation anomalies. Our study intended to determine the frequency of mutations and deletions in these genes, to assess the clinical phenotype in detail and to identify rational priorities for molecular genetic diagnostics procedures.

Design

Prospective analysis.

Patients

19 Caucasian patients with typical features of WS underwent stepwise investigation ofPAX3andMITF. When point mutations and small insertions/deletions were excluded by direct sequencing, copy number analysis by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification was performed to detect larger deletions and duplications. Clinical data and photographs were collected to facilitate genotype–phenotype analyses.

Setting

All analyses were performed in a large German laboratory specialised in genetic diagnostics.

Results

15 novel and 4 previously published heterozygous mutations inPAX3andMITFwere identified. Of these, six were large deletions or duplications that were only detectable by copy number analysis. All patients withPAX3mutations had typical phenotype of WS with dystopia canthorum (WS1), whereas patients withMITFgene mutations presented without dystopia canthorum (WS2). In addition, one patient with bilateral hearing loss and blue eyes with iris stroma dysplasia had a de novo missense mutation (p.Arg217Ile) inMITF.MITF3-bp deletions at amino acid position 217 have previously been described in patients with Tietz syndrome (TS), a clinical entity with hearing loss and generalised hypopigmentation.

Conclusions

On the basis of these findings, we conclude that sequencing and copy number analysis of bothPAX3andMITFhave to be recommended in the routine molecular diagnostic setting for patients, WS1 and WS2. Furthermore, our genotype–phenotype analyses indicate that WS2 and TS correspond to a clinical spectrum that is influenced byMITFmutation type and position.
A nationally representative survey of healthcare provider counselling and provision of the female condom in South Africa and Zimbabwe
Authors: Holt Kelsey , Blanchard Kelly , Chipato Tsungai , Nhemachena Taazadza , Blum Maya , Stratton Laura , Morar Neetha , Ramjee Gita , Harper Cynthia C
Published: March 2013

Objectives

Female condoms are the only female-initiated HIV and pregnancy prevention technology currently available. We examined female condom counselling and provision among providers in South Africa and Zimbabwe, high HIV-prevalence countries.

Design

A cross-sectional study using a nationally representative survey.

Setting

All facilities that provide family planning or HIV/sexually transmitted infection (STI) services.

Participants

National probability sample of 1444 nurses and physicians who provide family planning or HIV/STI services.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Female condom practices with different female patients, including adolescents, married women, women using hormonal contraception and by HIV status. Using multivariable logistic analysis, we measured variations in condom counselling by provider characteristics.

Results

Most providers reported offering female condoms (88%; 1239/1415), but perceived a need for novel female barrier methods for HIV/STI prevention (85%; 1191/1396). By patient type, providers reported less frequent female condom counselling of adolescents (55%; 775/1411), women using hormonal contraception (65%; 909/1409) and married women (66%; 931/1416), compared to unmarried (74%; 1043/1414) or HIV-positive women (82%; 1161/1415). Multivariable results showed providers in South Africa were less likely to counsel women on female condoms than in Zimbabwe (OR=0.48, 95% CI 0.35 to 0.68, p≤0.001). However, South African providers were more likely to counsel women on male condoms (OR=2.39, 95% CI 1.57 to 3.65, p≤0.001). Nurses counselled patients on female condoms more frequently than physicians (OR=5.41, 95% CI 3.26 to 8.98, p≤0.001). HIV training, family planning training, location (urban vs rural) and facility type (hospital vs clinic) were not associated with greater condom counselling.

Conclusions

Female condoms were integrated into provider counselling and care, although providers reported a need for new female-initiated multipurpose prevention technologies, suggesting female condoms do not meet all patient/provider needs or are not adequately well known or accessible. Providers should be included in HIV training efforts to raise awareness of new and existing products, and encouraged to educate all women.
Differences between self-reported and verified adverse cardiovascular events in a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Bolland Mark J , Barber Alan , Doughty Robert N , Grey Andrew , Gamble Greg , Reid Ian R
Published: March 2013

Objectives

In clinical trials, adverse events are usually self-reported but may be adjudicated if serious or of particular interest. After adjudicating cardiovascular events for a 5-year calcium supplement trial, we observed discrepancies between self-reported and verified events. We systematically analysed those differences to assess their importance.

Design

Secondary analysis of adverse cardiovascular events in a 5-year, randomised, placebo-controlled trial of calcium supplementation (1 g calcium daily) in 1471 postmenopausal women (mean age 74 years).

Setting

Clinical research centre.

Methods

The participant's medical records were reviewed for all self-reported myocardial infarctions (MIs) or strokes, and the event independently adjudicated. Cause of death was obtained from hospital records or death certificates. To identify unreported events, the national hospital discharge database was searched and related hospital records were reviewed.

Results

45 women reported 64 MIs, of which 33 (52%) were verified after adjudication. An additional 25 MIs were identified: 1 during adjudication of other events, 21 from the hospital discharge database, 3 from death certificates. 68 women reported 86 strokes of which 50 (58%) were verified. An additional 13 strokes were identified: 7 during adjudication of reported transient ischaemic attacks, 5 from the hospital discharge database, 1 from death certificates. Therefore, 43% of verified MIs and 21% of verified strokes were not reported to investigators. For non-adjudicated discharge codes, 10% of MIs and 22% of strokes were not verified after adjudication. Nineteen per cent of verified MIs and 27% of verified strokes were not identified in discharge coding or death certificates. Neither the event source nor the level of adjudication altered the relationship between treatment allocation and cardiovascular events.

Conclusions

When adverse event accuracy is critical, researchers should consider adjudicating self-reported events and hospital discharge codes, and attempt to identify unreported events.

Trial registration

Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials registry: ACTRN 012605000242628.