bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endogenous Price Stickiness, Trend Inflation, and Macroeconomic Stability
Authors: KUROZUMI TAKUSHI
Published: August 2016

Previous studies show that higher trend inflation is more likely to induce indeterminacy of equilibrium in sticky‐price models based on micro evidence that each period a fraction of prices is kept unchanged. This paper demonstrates that when the degree of price stickiness is endogenously determined in a Calvo model, indeterminacy caused by higher trend inflation is less likely. A key factor for determinacy is the long‐run inflation elasticity of output implied by the New Keynesian Phillips curve. This elasticity declines substantially with higher trend inflation in the case of exogenously given price stickiness, whereas in the case of endogenous price stickiness the decline in the elasticity is mitigated because higher trend inflation leads to a higher probability of price adjustment.
How coaching can play a key role in the development of nurse managers
Authors: Westcott Liz
Published: August 2016

Aims and objectives

The aim of this study was to explore empirically the role that coaching plays in the development of nurse managers in order to inform further research and policy makers about the potential utility and value of this means of development.

Background

There is evidence of the importance of the role of nurse managers who are first line managers of a team of nurses within any health sector. However, there appears to be little understanding of the United Kingdom wide scope of nurse manager development across the United Kingdom and the means to increase its effectiveness. At the same time, it appears that some nurse managers receive coaching to help in their development.

Design

This is a mixed methods study, using a pragmatist paradigm.

Methods

Data was gathered from a quantitative survey and qualitative interviews. This paper is reporting the results of the qualitative interviews only. Twenty‐one qualitative interviews were undertaken with nurse managers, coaches and directors of nursing to draw out their own experiences of coaching for nurse managers. Thematic analysis framework was used for data interrogation, identifying new patterns and emerging themes.

Results

Themes that emerged from interviews include how nurse managers were introduced to coaching, how they balanced transitions, the role of reflection, the value of relationships and overlaps between clinical supervision, mentoring and coaching.

Conclusions

Findings show that following coaching, nurse managers gained increased resilience, confidence and better coping mechanisms. This resulted in perceived improved team management and cohesion and appeared to lead to better quality of care for patients.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study suggests the importance of nurse managers accessing coaching, to enable transformational leadership of their teams of nurses. It suggests also the importance of organisations supporting a coaching culture, to ensure staff satisfaction, motivation and improved quality of patient care.
Downregulation of nucleophosmin expression inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in salivary gland adenoid cystic carcinoma
Authors: Li Shihao , Zhang Xinyu , Zhou Zhechong , Huang Zixian , Liu Liu , Huang Zhiquan
Published: August 2016

Background

This study aimed to explore the relationship between nucleophosmin (NPM1) and patient clinical characteristics. Moreover, we investigated the effect of NPM1 in tumor proliferation and apoptosis of salivary gland adenoid cystic carcinoma (SACC).

Materials and methods

NPM1 expression was examined in 74 specimens of SACC and 31 non‐cancerous epithelium adjacent to carcinoma (NCEAC) by immunohistochemistry (IHC). RNA interference technology was used to silence NPM1 expression in SACC cells. We used transwell culture assay, cell counting kit‐8 tests, and colony formation assay to test the proliferation, cisplatin resistance, migration, and invasiveness of SACC cells.

Results

The nuclear and cytoplasmic expression of NPM1 in SACC tissue was overexpressed and was tightly linked to perineural invasion and lymph node metastasis. The downregulation of NPM1 inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in SACC cells. Knockdown of NPM1 expression had no effect on chemoresistance migration, or invasiveness.

Conclusions

NPM1 may play an important role in tumor progress in SACC and is a potential biomarker for SACC.
Marginal Estimation of Parameter Driven Binomial Time Series Models
Authors: Dunsmuir William , He Jieyi
Published: August 2016

This article develops asymptotic theory for estimation of parameters in regression models for binomial response time series where serial dependence is present through a latent process. Use of generalized linear model estimating equations leads to asymptotically biased estimates of regression coefficients for binomial responses. An alternative is to use marginal likelihood, in which the variance of the latent process but not the serial dependence is accounted for. In practice, this is equivalent to using generalized linear mixed model estimation procedures treating the observations as independent with a random effect on the intercept term in the regression model. We prove that this method leads to consistent and asymptotically normal estimates even if there is an autocorrelated latent process. Simulations suggest that the use of marginal likelihood can lead to generalized linear model estimates result. This problem reduces rapidly with increasing number of binomial trials at each time point, but for binary data, the chance of it can remain over 45% even in very long time series. We provide a combination of theoretical and heuristic explanations for this phenomenon in terms of the properties of the regression component of the model, and these can be used to guide application of the method in practice.
Standard PK/PD concepts can be applied to determine a dosage regimen for a macrolide: the case of tulathromycin in the calf
Authors: Toutain P.‐L. , Potter T. , Pelligand L. , Lacroix M. , Illambas J. , Lees P.
Published: August 2016

The pharmacokinetic (PK) profile of tulathromycin, administered to calves subcutaneously at the dosage of 2.5 mg/kg, was established in serum, inflamed (exudate), and noninflamed (transudate) fluids in a tissue cage model. The PK profile of tulathromycin was also established in pneumonic calves. For Mannheimia haemolytica and Pasteurella multocida, tulathromycin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were approximately 50 times lower in calf serum than in Mueller–Hinton broth. The breakpoint value of the PK/pharmacodynamic (PD) index (AUC(0–24 h)/MIC) to achieve a bactericidal effect was estimated from in vitro time‐kill studies to be approximately 24 h for M. haemolytica and P. multocida. A population model was developed from healthy and pneumonic calves and, using Monte Carlo simulations, PK/PD cutoffs required for the development of antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) were determined. The population distributions of tulathromycin doses were established by Monte Carlo computation (MCC). The computation predicted a target attainment rate (TAR) for a tulathromycin dosage of 2.5 mg/kg of 66% for M. haemolytica and 87% for P. multocida. The findings indicate that free tulathromycin concentrations in serum suffice to explain the efficacy of single‐dose tulathromycin in clinical use, and that a dosage regimen can be computed for tulathromycin using classical PK/PD concepts.
How multiple episodes of exclusive breastfeeding impact estimates of exclusive breastfeeding duration: report from the eight‐site MAL‐ED birth cohort study
Authors: Ambikapathi Ramya , Kosek Margaret N. , Lee Gwenyth O. , Mahopo Cloupas , Patil Crystal L. , Maciel Bruna L. , Turab Ali , Islam M Munirul , Ulak Manjeswori , Bose Anuradha , Paredes Olortegui Maribel , Pendergast Laura L. , Murray‐Kolb Laura E. , Lang Dennis , McCormick Benjamin J. J. , Caulfield Laura E.
Published: August 2016

The duration of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is often defined as the time from birth to the first non‐breast milk food/liquid fed (EBFLONG), or it is estimated by calculating the proportion of women at a given infant age who EBF in the previous 24 h (EBFDHS). Others have measured the total days or personal prevalence of EBF (EBFPREV), recognizing that although non‐EBF days may occur, EBF can be re‐initiated for extended periods. We compared breastfeeding metrics in the MAL‐ED study; infants' breastfeeding trajectories were characterized from enrollment (median 7 days, IQR: 4, 12) to 180 days at eight sites. During twice‐weekly surveillance, caretakers were queried about infant feeding the prior day. Overall, 101 833 visits and 356 764 child days of data were collected from 1957 infants. Median duration of EBFLONG was 33 days (95% CI: 32–36), compared to 49 days based on the EBFDHS. Median EBFPREV was 66 days (95% CI: 62–70). Differences were because of the return to EBF after a non‐EBF period. The median number of returns to EBF was 2 (IQR: 1, 3). When mothers re‐initiated EBF (second episode), infants gained an additional 18.8 days (SD: 25.1) of EBF, and gained 13.7 days (SD: 18.1) (third episode). In settings where women report short gaps in EBF, programmes should work with women to return to EBF. Interventions could positively influence the duration of these additional periods of EBF and their quantification should be considered in impact evaluation studies. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Structure–function aspects of the Porphyromonas gingivalis tyrosine kinase Ptk1
Authors: Liu C. , Miller D.P. , Wang Y. , Merchant M. , Lamont R.J.
Published: August 2016

The development of synergistically pathogenic communities of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Streptococcus gordonii is controlled by a tyrosine‐phosphorylation‐dependent signaling pathway in P. gingivalis. The Ptk1 bacterial tyrosine (BY) kinase of P. gingivalis is required for maximal community development and for the production of extracellular polysaccharide. We show that the consensus BY kinase Walker A and B domains, the RK cluster, and the YC domain of Ptk1 are necessary for autophosphorylation and for substrate phosphorylation. Mass spectrometry showed that six tyrosine residues in a 16‐amino‐acid C‐terminal region were phosphorylated in recombinant (r) Ptk1. Complementation of a ptk1 mutant with the wild‐type ptk1 allele in trans restored community development between P. gingivalis and S. gordonii, and extracellular polysaccharide production by P. gingivalis. In contrast, complementation of Δptk1 with ptk1 containing a mutation in the Walker A domain failed to restore community development or extracellular polysaccharide production. rPtk1 was capable of phosphorylating the tyrosine phosphatase Ltp1 and the transcriptional regulator CdhR, both of which are involved in the development of P. gingivalis communities with S. gordonii.
China–India Growing Strides for Competing Strategies and Possibility of Conflict in the Asia–Pacific Region
Authors: Khan Zafar
Published: August 2016

As competing strategies between China and India are being played out in the Asia–Pacific region, competition, cooperation, and containment have become the common practices between these regional powers. However, the possibility of conflict, which may not be in the interest of any regional or extra‐regional powers, cannot be ignored. In this context, it needs to be observed closely as to what strategic approaches are prioritized and played out by these competing powers. If both China and India tend to keep their deterrent forces limited and stay within their legitimate continental and maritime domains without necessarily threatening or decreasing the security of other states – that is, to stay defensive rather than aggressive and escalatory – the prospect for conflict diminishes. However, if both India and China strategically pose more assertions and expand their strategic imperatives, then this could have certain strategic repercussions that might invite conflict in the region. This article addresses the competing strategies played out between China and India. It discusses the strategic aspirations, force modernization and the possibility of conflict between these two regional powers in the Asia–Pacific region. It also discusses the strategic imperatives of cooperation, containment, and competition between the regional powers, as well as how and under what hypothetical scenario the possibility of conflict between the two states might be increased.
Why do Territorial Disputes Escalate? A Domestic Political Explanation for the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands Dispute
Authors: Cho Hyun Joo , Choi Ajin
Published: August 2016

Why has the Senkaku/Diaoyu territorial dispute escalated recurrently? This study examines the sources of the 2010 and 2012 escalations in territorial disputes over the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands. We review existing explanations and their limitations and introduce new hypotheses based on the effect of political leaders' interests in the escalation of territorial disputes. We argue that when competition among leaders intensifies or leaders' political vulnerability increases, it is more likely that leaders who are seeking to retain or take office will behave more assertively in claiming rights over territories; therefore, a territorial dispute is more likely to escalate. We find that when Japanese leaders have needed to strengthen their political position during elections, they have adopted aggressive strategies in the dispute to avoid criticism from both the public and political oppositions about their weak postures against China. In China, the succession process has intensified political struggles and has led leaders to pursue a hardline policy with respect to the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands dispute. The Chinese government and the media have also fueled anti‐Japanese protests to increase internal cohesion for successful leadership transition. This study not only provides a domestic political explanation for the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands dispute, but also serves as supporting evidence or process tracing for the theoretical proposition that leadership change is associated with the escalation of territorial disputes.
Childhood urinary tract infection caused by extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase‐producing bacteria: Risk factors and empiric therapy
Authors: Uyar Aksu Nihal , Ekinci Zelal , Dündar Devrim , Baydemir Canan
Published: August 2016

Background

This study investigated risk factors of childhood urinary tract infection (UTI) associated with extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase (ESBL)‐producing bacteria (ESBL‐positive UTI) and evaluated antimicrobial resistance as well as empiric treatment of childhood UTI.

Methods

The records of children with positive urine culture between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2012 were evaluated. Patients with positive urine culture for ESBL‐producing bacteria were defined as the ESBL‐positive group, whereas patients of the same gender and similar age with positive urine culture for non‐ESBL‐producing bacteria were defined as the ESBL‐negative group. Each ESBL‐positive patient was matched with two ESBL‐negative patients.

Results

The ESBL‐positive and negative groups consisted of 154 and 308 patients, respectively. Potential risk factors for ESBL‐positive UTI were identified as presence of underlying disease, clean intermittent catheterization (CIC), hospitalization, use of any antibiotic and history of infection in the last 3 months (P < 0.05). On logistic regression analysis, CIC, hospitalization and history of infection in the last 3 months were identified as independent risk factors. In the present study, 324 of 462 patients had empiric therapy. Empiric therapy was inappropriate in 90.3% of the ESBL‐positive group and in 4.5% of the ESBL‐negative group. Resistance to nitrofurantoin was similar between groups (5.1% vs 1.2%, P = 0.072); resistance to amikacin was low in the ESBL‐positive group (2.6%) and there was no resistance in the ESBL‐negative group.

Conclusions

Clean intermittent catheterization, hospitalization and history of infection in the last 3 months should be considered as risk factors for ESBL‐positive UTI. The combination of ampicillin plus amikacin should be taken into consideration for empiric therapy in patients with acute pyelonephritis who have the risk factors for ESBL‐positive UTI. Nitrofurantoin seems to be a logical choice for the empiric therapy of cystitis.
Piloting CenteringParenting in Two Alberta Public Health Well‐Child Clinics
Authors: Johnston Jennifer Cyne , McNeil Deborah , van der Lee Germaeline , MacLeod Cheryl , Uyanwune Yvonne , Hill Kaitlyn
Published: August 2016

Objectives

To pilot a group health service delivery model, CenteringParenting, for new parents, to assess its feasibility and impact on maternal and infant outcomes.

Design and Sample

Families attended six, 2‐hr group sessions in their child's first year of life with three to seven other families. Health assessments, parent‐led discussions, and vaccinations occurred within the group.

Measures

Demographic, breastfeeding, vaccination, maternal psychosocial health, parenting, and satisfaction data were collected and compared to a representative cohort.

Results

Four groups ran in two clinics. Four to eight parent/infant dyads participated in each group, 24 total dyads. Most participating parents were mothers. Dyads in the group model received 12 hr of contact with Public Health over the year compared to 3 hr in the typical one‐on‐one model. Participants were younger, more likely to have lower levels of education, and lower household income than the comparison group. Parents reported improvements in parenting experiences following the program. At 4 months, all CenteringParenting babies were vaccinated compared to 95% of babies in the comparison group.

Conclusions

The pilot was successfully completed. Additional research is required to examine the effectiveness of CenteringParenting. Data collected provide insight into potential primary outcomes of interest and informs larger, rigorously designed longitudinal studies.
Does intraspecific behavioural variation of pollinator species influence pollination? A quantitative study with hummingbirds and a Neotropical shrub
Authors: Maruyama P. K. , Justino D. G. , Oliveira P. E.
Published: August 2016

Floral visitors differ in their efficacy as pollinators, and the impact of different pollinator species on pollen flow and plant reproduction has been frequently evaluated. In contrast, the impact of intraspecific behavioural changes on their efficacy as pollinators has seldom been quantified.

We studied a self‐incompatible shrub Palicourea rigida (Rubiaceae) and its hummingbird pollinators, which adjust their behaviour according to floral resource availability. Fluorescence microscopy was used to access pollen tube growth and incompatibility reaction in pistils after a single visit of territorial or intruder hummingbirds in two populations. To characterise the plant populations and possible differences in resource availability between areas we used a three‐term quadrat variance method to detect clusters of floral resources.

Within‐species variation in foraging behaviour, but not species identity, affected pollinator efficacy. Effectively, hummingbirds intruding into territories deposited more compatible pollen grains on P. rigida stigmas than territory holders in both study areas. Additionally, territory holders deposited more incompatible than compatible pollen grains.

Our results imply that intraspecific foraging behaviour variation has consequences for pollination success. Quantifying such variation and addressing the implications of intraspecific variability contribute to a better understanding of the dynamics and consequences of plant–pollinator interactions.
Effects of Verticillium dahliae on tomato root morphology considering plant growth response and defence
Authors: Buhtz A. , Hohe A. , Schwarz D. , Grosch R.
Published: August 2016

The soilborne pathogen Verticillium dahliae invades its host via the root, and spreads systemically throughout the plant. Although a functional root system of appropriate size is essential for water and nutrient uptake, to date, effects of pathogens on root morphology have not been frequently investigated. Therefore, this study aims to improve knowledge of how V. dahliae infection impairs root morphological characteristics of tomato, considering plant growth and physiological responses, particularly those involved in defence in roots and leaves over a growing period of up to 28 days post‐inoculation. Verticillium dahliae infection suppressed the growth of both shoot and root. Diseased plants developed a smaller leaf area, and exhibited a reduction in the rate of photosynthesis and stomatal conductance. An early response to pathogen invasion in the host root was the up‐regulation of several defence‐related genes, such as proteinase inhibitor II (Pin2), β‐1,3‐glucanase A (GluA) and two pathogenesis‐related genes (PR‐1a, PR‐1b). However, this response did not prevent colonization of the roots by the pathogen. Although a high variability in pathogen density was found within the root system, a significant increase of both the specific root length and surface area was observed in response to pathogen invasion; these traits correlated with water use efficiency. Morphological changes of the root may represent an adaptive response evolved to sustain the supply of both water and nutrients in the presence of the pathogen.
Tooth loss as a predictor of shortened longevity: exploring the hypothesis
Authors: Friedman Paula K. , Lamster Ira B.
Published: August 2016

Many factors contribute to human tooth loss, including oral hygiene practices, trauma, smoking, health status, socio‐economic status and individual preferences. Loss of teeth impairs quality‐of‐life measures, including the eating of most foods that require full masticatory function. A recent study of centenarians found that at age 65–74 years, those who lived to be 100 had a lower rate of edentulism than did younger members of their birth cohort at ages 65–74 years. Oral health was consistent with compression of morbidity toward the end of life. This article explores the hypothesis that factors associated with oral disease and noncommunicable diseases may increase the risk of tooth loss and lead to diminished longevity as a result of multifactorial interactions. It specifically addresses two critical questions. The first is: ‘Can we conclude that the number of teeth in aging humans can affect longevity and life expectancy?’ The answer is yes. The second is: ‘Is tooth loss a predictor of shortened longevity?’ Again, the answer is yes. Edentulism and partial edentulism are discussed as a disability, and how the philosophy/belief systems of dental providers and patients toward retaining teeth influences the outcome of tooth loss is also examined. Osteoporosis and cognitive impairment provide examples of modifying risk factors.
The subgingival periodontal microbiota of the aging mouth
Authors: Feres Magda , Teles Flavia , Teles Ricardo , Figueiredo Luciene Cristina , Faveri Marcelo
Published: August 2016

Different mechanisms have been hypothesized to explain the increase in prevalence and severity of periodontitis in older adults, including shifts in the periodontal microbiota. However, the actual impact of aging on the composition of subgingival biofilms remains unclear. In the present article, we provide an overview of the composition of the subgingival biofilm in older adults and the potential effects of age on the oral microbiome. In particular, this review covers the following topics: (i) the oral microbiota of an aging mouth; (ii) the effects of age and time on the human oral microbiome; (iii) the potential impact of inflammaging and immunosenescence in the host–oral microbiota interactions; and (iv) the relationship of the aging oral microbiota and Alzheimer's disease. Finally, we present analyses of data compiled from large clinical studies that evaluated the subgingival microbiota of periodontally healthy subjects and patients with periodontitis from a wide age spectrum (20–83 years of age).
Illusory conjunctions in visual short‐term memory: Individual differences in corpus callosum connectivity and splitting attention between the two hemifields
Authors: Qin Shuo , Ray Nicholas R. , Ramakrishnan Nithya , Nashiro Kaoru , O'Connell Margaret A. , Basak Chandramallika
Published: August 2016

Overloading the capacity of visual attention can result in mistakenly combining the various features of an object, that is, illusory conjunctions. We hypothesize that if the two hemispheres separately process visual information by splitting attention, connectivity of corpus callosum—a brain structure integrating the two hemispheres—would predict the degree of illusory conjunctions. In the current study, we assessed two types of illusory conjunctions using a memory‐scanning paradigm; the features were either presented across the two opposite hemifields or within the same hemifield. Four objects, each with two visual features, were briefly presented together followed by a probe‐recognition and a confidence rating for the recognition accuracy. MRI scans were also obtained. Results indicated that successful recollection during probe recognition was better for across hemifields conjunctions compared to within hemifield conjunctions, lending support to the bilateral advantage of the two hemispheres in visual short‐term memory. Age‐related differences regarding the underlying mechanisms of the bilateral advantage indicated greater reliance on recollection‐based processing in young and on familiarity‐based processing in old. Moreover, the integrity of the posterior corpus callosum was more predictive of opposite hemifield illusory conjunctions compared to within hemifield illusory conjunctions, even after controlling for age. That is, individuals with lesser posterior corpus callosum connectivity had better recognition for objects when their features were recombined from the opposite hemifields than from the same hemifield. This study is the first to investigate the role of the corpus callosum in splitting attention between versus within hemifields.
The effects of Risk Factor‐Targeted Lifestyle Counselling Intervention on working‐age stroke patients' adherence to lifestyle change
Authors: Oikarinen Anne , Engblom Janne , Kääriäinen Maria , Kyngäs Helvi
Published: August 2016

Introduction

Since a history of stroke or transient ischaemic attack is a major risk factor for a recurrent event, lifestyle counselling during the hospital phase is an essential component of treatment and may increase the probability of lifestyle change.

Aims and objectives

To study the effect of risk factor‐targeted lifestyle counselling intervention on working‐age stroke patients' adherence to lifestyle changes.

Design

A quasi‐experimental, nonequivalent control group pretest–post‐test design.

Methods

Stroke patients in an acute neurological unit were divided into a control group (n = 75) receiving standard counselling and an experimental group (n = 75) receiving risk factor‐targeted counselling. Lifestyle data and clinical outcomes were collected at hospital between January 2010 and October 2011, while data on adherence to lifestyle changes 3, 6, and 12 months after discharge.

Results

The baseline lifestyle habits did not differ significantly other than in alcohol behaviour. Both groups increased their intake, but the intervention group to a lesser degree. However, the experimental group significantly lost their weight for the first 3 and 6 months; at 3 months reduction in cigarette consumption and at 6 months significant increases in smoking cessation were also achieved. All improved some of their lifestyle habits. Intervention was associated with support from nurses as well as from family and friends. Adherence scores were higher in the experimental group.

Conclusion

Some short‐term advantages in lifestyle habits due to the intervention were noted. Participants in both groups improved some of their lifestyle habits.
Sedimentary dynamics along carbonate slopes (Bahamas archipelago)
Authors: Wunsch Marco , Betzler Christian , Lindhorst Sebastian , Lüdmann Thomas , Eberli Gregor P.
Published: August 2016

Hydroacoustic and sedimentological data in the Santaren Channel covering both the leeward slope of Great Bahama Bank and the windward slope of Cay Sal Bank allow new insights into carbonate platform slope sedimentation. The data document the interplay between depositional and erosive processes on both slopes through time and provide information on the current regime and its influence on the slope sedimentary processes. This study emphasizes the diversity and complexity of the slope morphology and the sediment distribution of the youngest high‐frequency sequence, which has developed since the last glacial maximum. The processes triggering slope failures and the formation of channels and gullies differ on both slopes. At the leeward slope of the Great Bahama Bank, extensive slope failures occurred primarily during sea‐level lowering following an interglacial. These slope failures created a slope morphology that channelizes the exported platform sediments during the subsequent highstand. At the windward slope of Cay Sal Bank, contour currents and the local tectonic regime are responsible for slope failures. During sea‐level lowstands, downwelling induces turbidity currents. The interaction of turbidity and contour currents leads to the formation of a system of furrows and slope‐parallel sediment ridges. The discovered heterogeneities in slope sedimentation improve the understanding of carbonate slope sedimentation and provide implications for sequence stratigraphic interpretation of carbonate platform slopes.
Association of Interleukin 10 Gene Polymorphisms with Autoimmune Thyroid Disease: Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Jung J. H. , Song G. G. , Kim J‐H. , Choi S. J.
Published: August 2016

The aim of this study was to perform a meta‐analysis of eligible studies and to derive a precise estimate of the association between interleukin 10 (IL10) polymorphisms and susceptibility to autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD). Meta‐analyses were conducted on the associations between AITD and the ‐1082 G/A (rs1800896), ‐819 C/T (rs1800871) and ‐592 C/A (rs1800872) polymorphisms in IL10, and the haplotype of these polymorphisms and AITD. A total of 2903 AITD patients and 3060 controls in 10 eligible studies were included in the meta‐analysis. This meta‐analysis showed significant associations between IL10 at the ‐1082 G allele and overall AITD (OR: 1.44, 95% CI 1.13–1.82, P = 0.003), but no association between the IL10 ‐592 C allele and the ‐819 C allele and AITD. Subgroup studies demonstrated significant associations between the ‐1082 G allele and susceptibility to Graves’ disease. Ethnicity‐specific meta‐analysis revealed significant associations between the ‐1082 G allele and AITD susceptibility in Asian populations; however, in Middle Eastern populations, no association was evident. Meta‐analysis of the IL10 haplotype revealed an association between the ATA haplotype and AITD (OR: 1.17, 95% CI 1.00–1.36, P = 0.04). Meta‐analysis demonstrates that the IL10 polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to AITD.
Cost of microbial larviciding for malaria control in rural Tanzania
Authors: Rahman Rifat , Lesser Adriane , Mboera Leonard , Kramer Randall
Published: August 2016

Objective

Microbial larviciding may be a potential supplement to conventional malaria vector control measures, but scant information on its relative implementation costs and effectiveness, especially in rural areas, is an impediment to expanding its uptake. We perform a costing analysis of a seasonal microbial larviciding programme in rural Tanzania.

Methods

We evaluated the financial and economic costs from the perspective of the public provider of a 3‐month, community‐based larviciding intervention implemented in twelve villages in the Mvomero District of Tanzania in 2012–2013. Cost data were collected from financial reports and invoices and through discussion with programme administrators. Sensitivity analysis explored the robustness of our results to varying key parameters.

Results

Over the 2‐year study period, approximately 6873 breeding sites were treated with larvicide. The average annual economic costs of the larviciding intervention in rural Tanzania are estimated at 2014US$ 1.44 per person protected per year (pppy),US$ 6.18 per household andUS$ 4481.88 per village, with the larvicide and staffing accounting for 14% and 58% of total costs, respectively.

Conclusions

We found the costs pppy of implementing a seasonal larviciding programme in rural Tanzania to be comparable to the costs of other larviciding programmes in urban Tanzania and rural Kenya. Further research should evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of larviciding relative to, and in combination with, other vector control strategies in rural settings.
Jasmonate‐mediated stomatal closure under elevated CO2 revealed by time‐resolved metabolomics
Authors: Geng Sisi , Misra Biswapriya B. , de Armas Evaldo , Huhman David V. , Alborn Hans T. , Sumner Lloyd W. , Chen Sixue
Published: August 2016

Foliar stomatal movements are critical for regulating plant water loss and gas exchange. Elevated carbon dioxide (CO2) levels are known to induce stomatal closure. However, the current knowledge on CO2 signal transduction in stomatal guard cells is limited. Here we report metabolomic responses of Brassica napus guard cells to elevated CO2 using three hyphenated metabolomics platforms: gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (MS); liquid chromatography (LC)‐multiple reaction monitoring‐MS; and ultra‐high‐performance LC‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight‐MS. A total of 358 metabolites from guard cells were quantified in a time‐course response to elevated CO2 level. Most metabolites increased under elevated CO2, showing the most significant differences at 10 min. In addition, reactive oxygen species production increased and stomatal aperture decreased with time. Major alterations in flavonoid, organic acid, sugar, fatty acid, phenylpropanoid and amino acid metabolic pathways indicated changes in both primary and specialized metabolic pathways in guard cells. Most interestingly, the jasmonic acid (JA) biosynthesis pathway was significantly altered in the course of elevated CO2 treatment. Together with results obtained from JA biosynthesis and signaling mutants as well as CO2 signaling mutants, we discovered that CO2‐induced stomatal closure is mediated by JA signaling.
Opinion evolution in open community
Authors: Pan Qiuhui , Qin Yao , Xu Yiqun , Tong Mengfei , He Mingfeng
Published: August 2016

We consider a dynamic group composed with a constant number of people and the people will change periodically. Every member in the community owns a value of confidence — a mechanism that measures the agent’s coherence to his or her own attitude. Based on Cellular Automata, the opinions of all agents are synchronously updated. As long as the updating frequency and updating proportion are appropriate, the open system can reach a democracy-like steady state. The majority of agents in the community will hold the same opinion.
Closed-Form Solutions for Eigenbuckling of Rectangular Mindlin Plate
Authors: Xing Yufeng , Xiang Wei
Published: August 2016

This paper studies the eigenbuckling of Mindlin plate with two adjacent edges clamped and the remaining edges simply supported or clamped by using the separation of variables method, and the concise and explicit closed-form solutions are obtained for the first time. The cases involving free edges can also be dealt with if there are two opposite edges simply supported. The closed-form solutions are in good agreement with the existing solutions, thus the validity of present method and accuracy of the obtained solutions are verified. This paper proves to be a major development of analytical method since it has long been acknowledged that the eigenbuckling of rectangular plates without two parallel edges simply supported are not amenable to analytical solutions.
A Difference-Wavelet Method for Solving Generalized Density Evolution Equation in Stochastic Structural Analysis
Authors: Tao Weifeng , Li Jie
Published: August 2016

The probability density evolution method (PDEM) provides a feasible approach for the dynamic response analysis of nonlinear stochastic structures. The key step in this regard is to solve a generalized density evolution equation (GDEE) in order to establish the probability density function (PDF). Previously, a finite difference method (FDM) has often been resorted to solve the GDEE. However, one may encounter the problem of mesh sensitivity in the application of FDM to the PDEM. To this end, a novel difference-wavelet method that can improve the finite difference result by means of a nonlinear wavelet density estimation method is proposed in the present paper. By exploiting the multi-resolution property of wavelet functions and by choosing the optimal scale at each instant, it is expected that the bothering mesh sensitivity issue in finite difference method can be overcome to some extent and a better probability density result can be obtained. In order to verify the proposed method, a single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) oscillator and an 8-story frame structure are investigated in detail. The results show the notable superiority of the proposed method to finite difference method.
Accurate Dynamic Responses Analysis of Orthotropic Steel Decks Using a Novel Multiscale Time-Varying Boundary Approximation Method
Authors: Tian Yuan , Zhang Nan , Xia He , Shahsavari Rouzbeh
Published: August 2016

An accurate evaluation of the dynamic responses on critical components of orthotropic bridge decks is of significance for identifying structural damage and predicting the fatigue life of long-span cable-stayed bridges. However, the traditional finite element (FE) methods are computationally cost-prohibitive for this application. In response, a new multiscale time-varying analysis method based on the dynamic balance equations and FE strategies is proposed and derived theoretically in this paper. Unlike most existing methods, the dynamic responses of this refined model is easily solved through repeated iterations, using the dynamic responses of a large-scale model as the boundary conditions. To validate the effectiveness of the method, a simply supported steel plate beam was used in a field test that demonstrated good correlation between the analytical dynamic responses and the experimental ones. To further validate this method, a case study involving a whole segment model of the Pingtan Bridge orthotropic bridge deck was established and the complex junction area between the plate and longitudinal ribs was modeled using two refinement processes. For comparison, a sufficiently refined model was also developed using ANSYS software based on the traditional FE methods. This study attempted to provide a new high-efficiency analysis framework for accurate analysis of local vibration problems. Under relatively small and easily manageable calculation conditions at each cross-scale processing level, the proposed method meets not only the requirements of global design for actual engineering applications, but also supports further in depth analysis.
An Overview on Meshfree Methods: For Computational Solid Mechanics
Authors: Liu G. R.
Published: August 2016

This review paper presents a methodological study on possible and existing meshfree methods for solving the partial differential equations (PDEs) governing solid mechanics problems, based mainly on the research work in the past two decades at the authors group. We start with a discussion on the general steps in a meshfree method based on nodes, with the displacements as the primary variables. We then examine the major techniques used in each of these steps: (1) techniques for displacement function approximations using nodes, (2) approximation of the gradient of the displacements or strains based on nodes and a background T-cells that can be automatically generated and refined, and (3) formulation techniques for producing algebraic equations. The function approximation techniques include node-based interpolation methods, cell-based interpolation methods, function smoothing techniques, and moving least squares approximation techniques. The gradient approximation includes direct differentiation, gradient smoothing, and special strain construction. Formulation techniques include strong-form, weakform, local weakform, weak-strong-form, and weakened weakform (W2). In theory, a meshfree method can be developed using a combination of function approximation, gradient approximation, and formulation techniques, which can lead to matrix of a large number of possible methods. This review attempts to provide an overall methodological review, rather than a usual review of comparing different methods. We hope to show readers the differences between the forests, and just between the trees.
FORMALISING THE DEMAND FOR TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS: RATIONAL HERDS, MARKET FRICTIONS AND NETWORK EFFECTS
Authors: SANTOS-ARTEAGA FRANCISCO J. , CAPRIO DEBORA DI , TAVANA MADJID , O'CONNOR AIDAN
Published: August 2016

The current paper presents a theoretical model where rational decision makers (DMs) observe credible signals regarding the existence of technologically superior products and generate the demand structure determining their evolution within the market. We will illustrate how consumers may stick to an inferior product when market frictions or their own expectations dictate them to do so. This will be the case even if the newcomer firm credibly guarantees an improvement upon the main characteristics of the incumbent product. Indeed, the prevalence of a suboptimal technology can be the result of the correct choice being made at a given point in time. Moreover, we will compute the expected prevalence of a given product in the market when information regarding the existence of a technologically superior product spreads across consumers following different diffusion processes. The consequences derived from the existence of path dependence phenomena will be analysed from a dynamic perspective by explicitly accounting for the emergence of network effects that may take place after firms signal the availability of a technologically superior set of products.
F-centers mechanism of long-term relaxation in lead zirconate-titanate based piezoelectric ceramics. 2. After-field relaxation
Authors: Ishchuk V. M. , Kuzenko D. V.
Published: August 2016

The paper presents results of experimental study of the dielectric constant relaxation during aging process in Pb(Zr,Ti)O3based solid solutions (PZT) after action of external DC electric field. The said process is a long-term one and is described by the logarithmic function of time. Reversible and nonreversible relaxation process takes place depending on the field intensity. The relaxation rate depends on the field strength also, and the said dependence has nonlinear and nonmonotonic form, if external field leads to domain disordering. The oxygen vacancies-based model for description of the long-term relaxation processes is suggested. The model takes into account the oxygen vacancies on the sample's surface ends, their conversion into [Formula: see text]- and [Formula: see text]-centers under external effects and subsequent relaxation of these centers into the simple oxygen vacancies after the action termination. [Formula: see text]-centers formation leads to the violation of the original sample's electroneutrality, and generate intrinsic DC electric field into the sample. Relaxation of [Formula: see text]-centers is accompanied by the reduction of the electric field, induced by them, and relaxation of the dielectric constant, as consequent effect.
The G20: Balancing National Interests with the Global Common Good
Authors: Fues Thomas , Messner Dirk
Published: August 2016

The Group of Twenty (G20) has been evolving as a widely recognized, yet controversial, power center of the global economy. While this self-selected club has performed important functions for member states and the world at large, criticism persists with regard to its effectiveness and legitimacy. The G20 still struggles with the critical challenge of how to balance the legitimate pursuit of national interests with a genuine commitment to the global common good. At present, the G20 Development Working Group (DWG) is tasked with coordinating and monitoring G20 activities on the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. However, real progress will only happen if and when the personal representatives of the G20 members, or the Sherpas, take full responsibility of the process and assert their authority toward the G20 Finance Track on this issue. The current Chinese presidency has strengthened the globalist orientation of the G20 by placing the UN 2030 Agenda on the central stage. The G20 Hangzhou Summit is very likely to adopt a 2030 Action Plan which addresses three transformative dimensions: domestic actions within each G20 country, collective actions toward global public goods, and support for low-income and developing countries. The upcoming German presidency should build on the Chinese agenda by focusing on five priorities: First, to promote the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); second, to create synergies between South-South and North-South development cooperation; third, to become role models for structural transformation; fourth, to support sustainable urbanization; and finally, to enhance the evolution of global knowledge communities. As demonstrated by Chinese research institutions, knowledge organizations in the Thinktank 20 (T20) can play an important role by providing critical analyses and policy recommendations to G20 leaders.
The Lysosome as a Regulatory Hub
Authors: Perera Rushika M. , Zoncu Roberto
Published: August 2016

The lysosome has long been viewed as the recycling center of the cell. However, recent discoveries have challenged this simple view and have established a central role of the lysosome in nutrient-dependent signal transduction. The degradative role of the lysosome and its newly discovered signaling functions are not in conflict but rather cooperate extensively to mediate fundamental cellular activities such as nutrient sensing, metabolic adaptation, and quality control of proteins and organelles. Moreover, lysosome-based signaling and degradation are subject to reciprocal regulation. Transcriptional programs of increasing complexity control the biogenesis, composition, and abundance of lysosomes and fine-tune their activity to match the evolving needs of the cell. Alterations in these essential activities are, not surprisingly, central to the pathophysiology of an ever-expanding spectrum of conditions, including storage disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. Thus, unraveling the functions of this fascinating organelle will contribute to our understanding of the fundamental logic of metabolic organization and will point to novel therapeutic avenues in several human diseases.
Transcriptional Control of Developmental Cell Behaviors
Authors: Bernadskaya Yelena , Christiaen Lionel
Published: August 2016

Tissue-specific transcription regulators emerged as key developmental control genes, which operate in the context of complex gene regulatory networks (GRNs) to coordinate progressive cell fate specification and tissue morphogenesis. We discuss how GRNs control the individual cell behaviors underlying complex morphogenetic events. Cell behaviors classically range from mesenchymal cell motility to cell shape changes in epithelial sheets. These behaviors emerge from the tissue-specific, multiscale integration of the local activities of universal and pleiotropic effectors, which underlie modular subcellular processes including cytoskeletal dynamics, cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion, signaling, polarity, and vesicle trafficking. Extrinsic cues and intrinsic cell competence determine the subcellular spatiotemporal patterns of effector activities. GRNs influence most subcellular activities by controlling only a fraction of the effector-coding genes, which we argue is enriched in effectors involved in reading and processing the extrinsic cues to contextualize intrinsic subcellular processes and canalize developmental cell behaviors. The properties of the transcription-cell behavior interface have profound implications for evolution and disease.