bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is there any evidence that aphid alarm pheromones work as prey and host finding kairomones for natural enemies?
Authors: VOSTEEN ILKA , WEISSER WOLFGANG W , KUNERT GRIT
Published: October 2015

1. The aphid alarm pheromone (E)‐β‐farnesene (EBF) is often considered to be used by natural enemies as a prey/host finding kairomone. However, studies show opposing results, some appear to confirm an attraction of aphid natural enemies by EBF whereas others do not provide any evidence for the kairomone function of EBF.

2. To clarify if aphid natural enemies are attracted by the amounts of EBF naturally emitted by aphids, the existing literature was reviewed about EBF attractiveness to aphid natural enemies with consideration of the amounts of EBF used in the studies.

3. Thirty‐one publications that investigated the ability of EBF, aphid cornicle secretion, and attacked aphids, to attract aphid natural enemies were found. Several studies showed an attraction by EBF, but these used much higher amounts of EBF than usually emitted by aphids during a predator attack. Studies investigating EBF amounts similar to what is emitted by aphids are rare and failed to show attraction. Only two studies document an attraction of natural enemies by attacked aphids.

4. As EBF is emitted in very low amounts, not very stable, and only present after an attack, we suggest that aphid‐derived EBF is not a suitable kairomone for most natural enemy species, especially when they are able to use alternative cues. As EBF, amongst other volatiles, is also emitted by herbivore‐induced plants, we propose that natural enemies might use plant‐derived EBF as a synomone to identify aphid‐infested plants via an altered plant volatile bouquet.
Standards, learning, and growth inBritain, 1901–2009
Authors: Spencer Christopher , Temple Paul
Published: October 2015

This article considers the model of voluntary, consensus based standardization as developed through theBritishStandardsInstitution (BSI) and its contribution to learning and productivity growth. It discusses the significant role played by professional engineers in the model's introduction, its extension at home, and its imitation overseas. It is argued that by 1931 theBSIcatalogue of standards represented a considerable stock of codified knowledge whose growth reflected underlying aggregate technological opportunities, assisting in their transformation into technological advance. To help validate this claim, a measure of the size of theBSIcatalogue of standards is incorporated into an econometric model of aggregate productivity growth in Britain. Findings show that the growth of the standards catalogue is associated with a substantial proportion of labour productivity growth over the period 1931–2009. Estimates relating to the short‐run dynamics involved are consistent with the idea that there are causal linkages running from standards to growth. When interpreting these findings, it is argued that the overall weight of historical evidence points to standardization—coordinated through theBSI—as providing an important path of learning for the British economy over the period considered.
Human activities change marine ecosystems by altering predation risk
Authors: Madin Elizabeth M. P. , Dill Lawrence M. , Ridlon April D. , Heithaus Michael R. , Warner Robert R.
Published: October 2015

In ocean ecosystems, many of the changes in predation risk – both increases and decreases – are human‐induced. These changes are occurring at scales ranging from global to local and across variable temporal scales. Indirect, risk‐based effects of human activity are known to be important in structuring some terrestrial ecosystems, but these impacts have largely been neglected in oceans. Here, we synthesize existing literature and data to explore multiple lines of evidence that collectively suggest diverse human activities are changing marine ecosystems, including carbon storage capacity, in myriad ways by altering predation risk. We provide novel, compelling evidence that at least one key human activity, overfishing, can lead to distinct, cascading risk effects in natural ecosystems whose magnitude exceeds that of presumed lethal effects and may account for previously unexplained findings. We further discuss the conservation implications of human‐caused indirect risk effects. Finally, we provide a predictive framework for when human alterations of risk in oceans should lead to cascading effects and outline a prospectus for future research. Given the speed and extent with which human activities are altering marine risk landscapes, it is crucial that conservation and management policy considers the indirect effects of these activities in order to increase the likelihood of success and avoid unfortunate surprises.
Nephrology pre‐dialysis care affects the psychological adjustment, not only blood pressure, anemia, and phosphorus control
Authors: Furusho Masahide , Kawazu Minami , Takeda Kazuhito , Kurachi Emiko , Nakashima Takafumi , Sagara Rikako , Hara Takashi , Mukai Hideyuki , Miura Shuhei , Sugawara Koji
Published: October 2015

Several studies have suggested that pre‐dialysis care is associated with clinical outcomes. However, little has been reported on the influence of pre‐dialysis care on the psychological adjustment to dialysis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of pre‐dialysis care on psychological adjustment to dialysis and clinical characteristics. In this cross‐sectional study, we enrolled 52 patients who started hemodialysis at our hospital. They were divided into two groups according to the time of referral to our hospital: the early referral group (over 1 year prior to first dialysis: 19 patients, mean age 69.3 ± 11.1) and the late referral group (within 1 year prior to first dialysis: 33 patients, mean age 72.3 ± 8.9). We measured the clinical characteristics and evaluated the psychological adjustment to dialysis by Shontz's stage theory. Compared with the late referral group, the early referral group had a significantly better clinical characteristics concerning blood pressure (140.2 ± 23.7 vs. 156.9 ± 23.3 mmHg, P = 0.0150), hemoglobin (10.3 ± 1.5 vs. 9.4 ± 1.0 g/dL, P = 0.0078), and phosphorus (4.5 ± 1.5 vs. 5.5 ± 1.3 mg/dL, P = 0.0166). In addition, psychological adjustment to dialysis evaluated by Shontz's stage theory was significantly better in the early referral group (P = 0.017). Our results indicate that nephrology pre‐dialysis care affects not only blood pressure, anemia, and phosphorus control but also the psychological adjustment to dialysis.
Early start renal replacement therapy for acute kidney injury—Universal panacea or another case of over medicalization?
Authors: Davenport Andrew
Published: October 2015

Despite advances in medical practice and renal replacement therapy, the mortality of patients who develop acute kidney injury remains high. In the field of cardiology, the management of myocardial infarction has evolved from one of conservative bed rest to primary coronary intervention. As renal replacement therapy is now generally available, the question arises whether earlier intervention could lead to improved patient outcomes. The evidence to date is primarily centered on retrospective observational reports, with the majority reporting increased patient survival for earlier intervention. However, these reports are typically based on small numbers of patients and differ in the etiology of acute kidney injury, patient comorbidity, and definitions of what constitutes “early” start. To date, there is less than a handful of prospective randomized studies published in the modern era. Again these are small studies, with differing patient populations, and definitions of “early” start, but generally do not show any significant advantage for an “early” start approach. As such until adequately powered prospective trial data become available, the decision to initiate renal replacement therapy should be made by the traditional review of patient history, repeated clinical assessments, and trends in biochemical data.
US Fiscal Sustainability and the Causality Relationship between Government Expenditures and Revenues: A New Approach Based on Quantile Cointegration
Authors: Chen Pei‐Fen
Published: October 2015

This paper first aims to reinvestigate the issue of US fiscal sustainability by using the quantile cointegration approach proposed by Xiao (2009 and 2012). Our empirical evidence indicates a quantile‐dependent cointegrating relationship between government expenditures and revenues. In addition, this paper examines the long‐run causality relationship between expenditures and revenues by using the vector error‐correction (VEC) model with coefficients based on the different quantiles. Findings from the long‐run Granger‐causality analyses support the spend‐and‐tax hypothesis. Our investigation suggests that the government should show more discretion in increasing expenditures in the long run. Moreover, budget deficit reduction can only be achieved through reductions in government expenditures.
Additive Manufacturing of Ceramics Enabled by Flash Pyrolysis of Polymer Precursors with Nanoscale Layers
Authors: Zoli Luca , Sciti Diletta , Liew Li‐Anne , Terauds Kalvis , Azarnoush Setareh , Raj Rishi
Published: October 2015

We show that a polymer‐based route to ceramics can be implemented into additive manufacturing by reducing the time for pyrolysis to about a second, which we call flash pyrolysis. Repetitive deposition of nanometer scale coatings of the ceramic, in this way, is employed to create defect‐free infiltrations of carbon fiber composites. The mechanical strength of the fibers is retained in the composite. Excellent wetting properties of the polymer precursor permits three‐dimensional, conformal coating through the three stages of infiltration: nanoscale coating of the single fibers, filling of interstitial spaces between the fibers, and a buildup of the coating over the entire composite. The flash pyrolysis method will enable a new genre of polymer‐derived ceramics made into net shape by this unusual method of additive manufacturing.
Wear Behavior of Bulk Polycrystalline MgO–MgFe2O4 “Age‐Hardened Alloys”
Authors: Gurnani Luv , Kathuria Ranjan , Mukhopadhyay Amartya
Published: October 2015

We report here improved abrasive wear resistances for our newly developed bulk polycrystalline “age‐hardened/toughened” MgO–MgFe2O4 “ceramic alloys”. In comparison with phase pure MgO, reductions in wear rates by up to ~30% were recorded for the MgO–MgFe2O4 alloys, with those developed upon aging at 1000°C for 0 h showing the best improvements. In contrast to the worn surfaces for MgO, the worn surfaces of the alloys showed the presence of only abrasive grooves with hardly any evidence for brittle fracture induced pull‐out. Estimates for area fractions of pull‐outs and depths of damaged zones present trends similar to the wear rates, with the pull‐out fractions and the depths of damaged zones being lesser for the MgO–MgFe2O4 alloys by up to ~60% and ~70%, respectively, as compared to phase pure MgO.
Low Thermal Conductivity of Rare‐Earth Zirconate‐Stannate Solid Solutions (Yb2Zr2O7)1−x(Ln2Sn2O7)x (Ln = Nd, Sm)
Authors: Zhao Meng , Ren Xiaorui , Yang Jun , Pan Wei
Published: October 2015

Dense monoliths of rare‐earth zirconate‐stannate solid solutions (Yb2Zr2O7)1−x(Ln2Sn2O7)x (Ln = Nd, Sm) were prepared by solid‐state reaction. Characterized by XRD, Raman, SEM, and TEM, a double‐phase structure of Yb2Zr2O7‐rich fluorite and Nd2Sn2O7‐rich pyrochlore was observed in the specimens of x = 0.4 and 0.5 of (Yb2Zr2O7)1−x(Nd2Sn2O7)x series while complete solid solutions were formed within the whole composition range of (Yb2Zr2O7)1−x(Sm2Sn2O7)x series. Except for the defect phonon scattering, lattice softening caused by order–disorder phase transformation between pyrochlore and fluorite structures also plays an important role in minimizing the thermal conductivity. Low thermal conductivity with positive temperature dependence is achieved in both the series. Considering the structure stability and low thermal conductivity, rare‐earth zirconate‐stannate solid solutions may be promising materials for thermal insulating applications, such as thermal barrier coatings.
Patients with alcohol‐related liver disease – beliefs about their illness and factors that influence their self‐management
Authors: Lau‐Walker Margaret , Presky Jonathan , Webzell Ian , Murrells Trevor , Heaton Nigel
Published: October 2015

Aim

To determine the association between illness belief and self‐efficacy to provide the evidence‐base to develop a personalized framework to support self‐management in patients with alcohol‐related liver disease.

Background

Research in a variety of long‐term illnesses suggests patients' illness beliefs are a more influential factor for patient recovery than the severity of the illness. However, research into illness belief and self‐efficacy of patients with alcohol‐related liver disease is sparse.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

A cohort of 159 patients with alcohol‐related liver disease who attended the Liver Outpatient Clinics at a London Hospital (October 2012–November 2013) completed a set of validated instruments measuring illness beliefs, self‐efficacy, emotional states and quality of life.

Findings

The mean age of enrolled patients was 52 years, 67% male, 26% live on their own, 61% had no previous history of other chronic illness and average Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease and The AUDIT Alcohol Consumption Questions scores were 11·0 and 3·5 respectively. After adjusting for demographic and illness characteristic components, multiple regression analysis shows that the three illness belief components ‘Symptoms', ‘Understanding' and ‘Concerns' made a significant contribution to their confidence to self‐manage their liver condition and the ‘Symptoms' component makes a signification contribution across to all outcome measures: Anxiety, Depression, Quality of Life and Self‐Efficacy.

Conclusion

Interventions designed to improve these patients' understanding of their illness and strategies to manage their symptoms are likely to improve their self‐management, quality of life and reduce anxiety and depression.
Analysis of effectiveness and safety of a three‐part triage system for the access to dermatology specialist health care
Authors: Deluca J. , Goldschmidt A. , Eisendle K.
Published: October 2015

Background

Accessibility and waiting times pose a general problem in public financed health care systems. In Italy a three‐part triage system (urgent, priority and deferrable with a corresponding maximum time target before treatment of 1, 8 and 60 days respectively) to gain faster treatment for urgent and emergent cases of dermatology outpatients has been introduced.

Methods

From February 2011 to August 2013, samples of 1526 outpatient electronic medical record cases were randomly retrieved. Diagnoses with their corresponding triage codes were recorded. Urgent visits were further analysed according to the referring physician. The appropriateness of the referral was based on the published state law diagnostic guidelines. Data were statistically analysed using the 2‐tailed Pearson chi‐squared test or the Fisher exact test.

Results

Overall, 56.5% retrieved cases were deferrable, 13.1% priority and 30.4% urgent. Frequency of diagnoses differed significantly between the three groups (P < 0.05). Appropriateness of the triage level was higher for priority than for urgent referrals (P < 0.05%). An overestimation of urgency levels was noted and urgent cases were not overseen. Triage levels were best assessed by general practitioners (75% correct allocations) followed by emergency physicians (59%) and other specialists (45%) (P < 0.01%).

Conclusion

The triage system according to clinical need is safe. Correct allocation according to urgency occurs in <75% and leaves space for improvement. General Practitioners address patient′s access significantly better than other physicians, therefore are best suited to function as gatekeepers to the access of specialist care in public funded health care systems.
Serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) as a clinical marker in acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis: a close correlation between serum CEA level and disease activity
Authors: Honma M. , Iinuma S. , Kanno K. , Komatsu S. , Minami‐Hori M. , Iizuka H. , Ishida‐Yamamoto A.
Published: October 2015

Background

Hypohidrosis/anhidrosis are congenital or acquired sweating impairments. Among them, acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis/hypohidrosis (AIGA) is the most common, and characterized by favourable response to systemic corticosteroid, however, no clinical markers for disease severity or activity have been developed.

Objective

Our aim was to verify the usefulness of serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level monitoring as a clinical marker for disease activity of AIGA.

Methods

Ten cases of AIGA diagnosed at Asahikawa Medical University, from 1980 to 2014 were included in the study. CEA and/or CEACAM1 expression level was analysed using immunohistochemistry and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Result

CEA expression was restricted to the apical membrane of glandular cells in eccrine sweat glands in most of the three types of cases we examined [healthy control, patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) or urticaria]. However, CEA expression was detected diffusely and much more intensively in eight of the 10 AIGA cases included in this study. CEACAM1‐expression was much more restricted on the apical membrane of glandular cells of both the AIGA cases and the other control subjects. While serum CEA levels increased in all five AIGA cases examined (5.8–43.2 ng/mL), it remained within normal limits in all control subjects: nine healthy individuals; 10 cases of AD; 10 cases of idiopathic urticaria; four cases of normohidrotic cholinergic urticaria (Mann–Whitney's U‐test, P < 0.05). The increased serum CEA levels in AIGA decreased in conjunction with improved sweating during methyl prednisolone pulse therapy or repeated bathing.

Conclusion

Serum CEA level may serve as a clinical marker for AIGA activity.
A systematic review with pooled analysis of clinical presentation and immunodiagnostic testing in mucous membrane pemphigoid: association of anti‐laminin‐332 IgG with oropharyngeal involvement and the usefulness of ELISA
Authors: Amber K.T. , Bloom R. , Hertl M.
Published: October 2015

Background

Mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP) is characterized by subepithelial blistering due to IgG autoantibodies targeting various components of the dermal–epidermal basement membrane zone. Immunodiagnostics play an important role in making a precise diagnosis. Measures of test sensitivity and specificity, however, typically come from studies in diseases such as bullous pemphigoid, where the exact antigenic site may not be the same. Additionally, the association of clinical phenotype and autoantibody profiles has been an area of debate.

Objective

We evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of ELISA in MMP for the known target antigens BP180 and laminin‐332, as well as characterized the frequency of IgG antibodies against each laminin‐332 subdomain. Lastly, we analysed whether IgG auto‐antibody profiles were associated with clinical phenotype.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of Medline/PubMed to compile MMP patient demographics, clinical manifestations and immunodiagnostic results. ELISA sensitivities and specificities for autoantigens were calculated in patients with positive immunoblot or immunoprecipitationstudies. IgG reactivity for each laminin‐332 subunit was recorded. Associations between positive immunological tests and clinical presentation were evaluated using chi‐squared test tests or Fisher's exact test when appropriate.

Results

For patients with a positive immunoblot or immunoprecipitation to NC16a, ELISA using both the NC16a and C‐terminal portion of BP180 demonstrated a sensitivity and specificity of 73% and 93%. However, for individuals with IgG against the C‐terminal domain of BP180, the sensitivity and specificity was 43% and 56%, respectively. LN‐332 ELISA demonstrated 75% sensitivity, but only for patients with IgG reactivity against the α3 subunit. In patients with laminin‐332 MMP, 86.4% demonstrated IgG against the α3 subunit. IgG autoantibodies against laminin‐332 are significantly associated with pharyngo‐laryngeal (P < 0.0001) and oro‐pharyngo‐laryngeal (P = 0.006) involvement.

Conclusions

Immunodiagnostics play a major role in diagnosing MMP, though limited sensitivity may necessitate several forms of testing for confirmation.
Factors associated with potentially harmful antibiotic prescription during pregnancy: a population‐based study
Authors: Lee Yichen , Chen Chuchieh , Chu Dachen , Ko Mingchung
Published: October 2015

Rationale, aims and objectives

Inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions during pregnancy may adversely affect the fetus. There were few studies on factors associated with antibiotic prescriptions potentially harmful to the fetus.

Methods

This was a population‐based cross‐sectional study using data from National Health Insurance Research Database. We calculated the frequency of antibiotic prescription according to the status of pregnancy, type of infections, characteristics of patients, doctors and medical institutions. According to the British National Formulary, sulfonamides, trimethoprim, tetracycline and quinolones were classified as antibiotics potentially harmful to the fetus. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the independent effect of various characteristic on antibiotic prescriptions, during pregnancy, potentially harmful to the fetus.

Results

Among the 19 464 pregnant subjects, 6554 (33.67%) received antibiotic prescriptions during pregnancy. Antibiotic prescriptions potentially harmful to the fetus accounted for 6.31% of all antibiotic prescriptions during pregnancy. Pregnant women aged <20 years, in their first trimester, and who were presenting with urogenital infections had the highest risks of receiving antibiotic prescriptions potentially harmful to the fetus. Non‐gynaecologists, doctors aged 39–49 or ≥50 years, and doctors at clinics had higher risks of prescribing antibiotics potentially harmful to the fetus.

Conclusions

Measures to improve the quality of practices should include efforts to increase awareness of antibiotic prescription guidelines for the treatment of infections in the pregnant population.
miR‐205 promotes epithelial–mesenchymal transition by targeting AKT signaling in endometrial cancer cells
Authors: Jin Chenyu , Liang Ruojia
Published: October 2015

Aim

AKT signaling regulates multiple biological processes and expresses in various cancers. miR‐205 plays complex roles in tumorigenesis and tumor progression by acting either as a tumor suppressor or an oncogene depending on the tumor type. Here we describe the molecular mechanism of miR‐205 regulating epithelial–mesenchymal transition by activation of AKT signaling in endometrial cancer cells HEC‐50B and HEC‐1‐A.

Material and Methods

The proliferation of HEC‐50B cells transfected with miR‐205 mimic was assessed by WST‐1 assay. The migration and invasion were evaluated by BD transwell migration and matrigel invasion assays. The EMT markers were detected by Western blot.

Results

We found that miR‐205 increased the proliferation in HEC‐50B cells. The migration and invasion of HEC‐50B cells and HEC‐1‐A cells were enhanced by miR‐205. When HEC‐50B cells and HEC‐1‐A cells were treated with anti‐miR‐205 inhibitor, the migration and invasion were decreased as compared with the negative control. The overexpression of miR‐205 inhibited E‐cadherin expression and promoted Snail expression by activation of AKT and downregulation of glycogen synthase kinase 3β. However, after the HEC‐50B cells and HEC‐1‐A cells were treated with anti‐miR‐205 inhibitor, E‐cadherin expression was increased and Snail protein level was decreased by inhibition of AKT expression.

Conclusion

Our data strongly suggest that miR‐205 plays an important role in endometrial cancer migration and invasion by targeting the AKT pathway. Our data highlight miR‐205 as a potential molecular target for endometrial cancer treatment.
Diathermy versus scalpel in transverse abdominal incision in women undergoing repeated cesarean section: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Elbohoty Ahmed E. H. , Gomaa Mostafa F. , Abdelaleim Mohamed , Abd‐El‐Gawad Magdi , Elmarakby Mohamed
Published: October 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the volume of blood loss, wound incision time and wound complication according to use of scalpel or electrosurgery during the creation of transverse abdominal incisions during repeated cesarean section (CS).

Material and Methods

A randomized controlled trial was carried out at Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital. We recruited 130 women with a history of one previous CS at the time of their planned lower‐segment CS. Participants were randomized to anterior abdominal wall opening from subcutaneous tissue till the peritoneum by either the use of scalpel with disposable blade (No. 22) or diathermy using the standard diathermy pen electrode. The main outcome measures were the volume of blood loss from skin incision to the end of the peritoneal incision, the operative time and wound complication.

Results

We observed a highly significant difference between the two groups in blood loss (median [interquartile range], 11 [8–15.25] g for the diathermy group vs 20 [18–23] g for the scalpel group, P < 0.001) and skin‐to‐peritoneum incision time (median [interquartile range], 7 [5–7.25] min for the diathermy group vs 10 [7–11] min for the scalpel group, P < 0.001). The postoperative pain was less in the diathermy group but wound complications showed no statistical difference.

Conclusion

The use of diathermy in the opening of anterior abdominal wall during CS decreases blood loss and operative time but has no impact on postoperative pain or wound complications.
Cytokine (interleukin‐1beta) and MMP levels in gingival crevicular fluid after use of platelet‐rich fibrin or connective tissue graft in the treatment of localized gingival recessions
Authors: Eren G. , Tervahartiala T. , Sorsa T. , Atilla G.
Published: October 2015

Background and Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the levels of MMP‐8, MMP‐9, TIMP‐1 and interleukin‐1beta (IL‐1β) in gingival crevicular fluid during the early and late stages of healing in gingival recession sites treated with coronally advanced flap plus platelet‐rich fibrin (CAF+PRF) compared with CAF plus connective tissue graft (CAF+CTG).

Material and Methods

Twenty‐four nonsmoking patients with Miller Class I or Class II localized gingival recession defects in bilateral sites received treatment with either CAF+PRF (PRF group) or CAF+CTG (CTG group). Gingival crevicular fluid samples were collected at baseline and at 10 d and 1 mo, 3 mo and 6 mo after surgery. The levels of MMP‐8, MMP‐9, TIMP‐1 and IL‐1β in gingival crevicular fluid were measured using a time‐resolved immunofluorometric assay and ELISAs.

Results

Gingival crevicular fluid levels of IL‐1β were significantly elevated in the CTG group at 10 d compared with baseline (p < 0.05). At 10 d after surgery, the levels of TIMP‐1 in gingival crevicular fluid showed a significant decrease in the CTG group compared with the PRF group (p < 0.05). The levels of IL‐1β and MMP‐8 in gingival crevicular fluid were significantly lower in the PRF group than in the CTG group at 10 d (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found in all clinical and biochemical parameters at 1, 3, and 6 mo between study groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Root coverage with CAF+PRF has a significant effect on increasing gingival crevicular fluid TIMP‐1 levels and suppressing gingival crevicular fluid MMP‐8 and IL‐β levels at 10 d. Gingival crevicular fluid levels of MMP‐8, MMP‐9, TIMP‐1 and IL‐1β did not seem to be affected by the technique at later phases of wound healing.
Prominence Patterns in a Second Language: Intonational Transfer From Dutch to Spanish and Vice Versa
Authors: van Maastricht Lieke , Krahmer Emiel , Swerts Marc
Published: October 2015

This research describes the production of prosodic cues to mark information structure in Spanish and Dutch. It compares speech by native (L1) and second language (L2) speakers and investigates prosodic transfer from the L1 to the L2, L2 proficiency as a factor in transfer effects, and transfer from the L2 to the L1. The results confirm that Spanish and Dutch natives use different prosodic cues to mark information status. Comparison of L1 and L2 data reveals that these prosodic differences lead to transfer from the L1 to the L2. The proficiency level of the speaker modulates transfer effects. To some degree, pitch accents used to mark focus appear to be transferred from the L2 to the L1 as well.
Cross‐Language Activation Begins During Speech Planning and Extends Into Second Language Speech
Authors: Jacobs April , Fricke Melinda , Kroll Judith F.
Published: October 2015

Three groups of native English speakers named words aloud in Spanish, their second language (L2). Intermediate proficiency learners in a classroom setting (Experiment 1) and in a domestic immersion program (Experiment 2) were compared to a group of highly proficient English–Spanish speakers. All three groups named cognate words more quickly and accurately than matched noncognates, indicating that all speakers experienced cross‐language activation during speech planning. However, only the classroom learners exhibited effects of cross‐language activation in their articulation: Cognate words were named with shorter overall durations, but longer (more English‐like) voice onset times. Inhibition of the first language during L2 speech planning appears to impact the stages of speech production at which cross‐language activation patterns can be observed.

Open Practices

This article has been awarded an Open Materials badge. All materials are publicly accessible in the IRIS digital repository at http://www.iris‐database.org. Learn more about the Open Practices badges from the Center for Open Science: https://osf.io/tvyxz/wiki
Oral Nadolol for Children with Infantile Hemangiomas and Sleep Disturbances with Oral Propranolol
Authors: Bernabeu‐Wittel José , Narváez‐Moreno Basilio , de la Torre‐García José Manuel , Fernández‐Pineda Israel , Domínguez‐Cruz Javier Jesús , Coserría‐Sánchez Félix , Álvarez‐del‐Vayo Concha , Conejo‐Mir Julián
Published: October 2015

Background/Objective

Oral propranolol has been shown to be safe and effective in infants with infantile hemangioma (IH). Side effects such as sleep disturbances have been associated with propranolol. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral nadolol in a small series of patients whose propranolol therapy was discontinued due to sleep disturbances.

Methods

A retrospective study of patients with IHs who were treated with oral nadolol due to propranolol‐related sleep disturbances at a pediatric tertiary care center between July 2008 and March 2013. Clinical response to oral nadolol and disappearance of propranolol‐related side effects were analyzed.

Results

A total of 97 patients presenting IH received oral propranolol. Nine patients (9.3%) developed sleep disturbances. Oral propranolol was discontinued in seven patients and switched to oral nadolol, with resolution of these side effects in 5 (71%) of the cases. One patient developed sleep disturbances again after four months of oral nadolol.

Limitations

The sample size was too small to draw generalizable conclusions and to draw any statistical inference as to the incidence of sleep disturbances with nadolol therapy.

Conclusions

The use of oral nadolol in the treatment of IH in our series of 7 patients, resolved the propranolol‐related sleep disturbances in 5 (71%), while in one patient the symptoms recurred after 4 months of oral nadolol at a dose of 2 mg/kg/day. In most cases, switching beta‐blockers did not compromise efficacy, and is recommended when sleep disturbance necessitates discontinuation of beta‐blocker therapy of IH.
Orbital Hemangioma with Intracranial Vascular Anomalies and Hemangiomas: A New Presentation of PHACE Syndrome?
Authors: Antonov Nina K. , Spence‐Shishido Allyson , Marathe Kalyani S. , Tlougan Brook , Kazim Michael , Sultan Sally , Hess Christopher P. , Morel Kimberly D. , Frieden Ilona J. , Garzon Maria C.
Published: October 2015

We present two cases of infants with a similar constellation of clinical findings: retro‐orbital infantile hemangioma (IH), internal carotid artery (ICA) arteriopathy, and intracranial IH. In both cases, intracranial vascular anomalies and hemangiomas were found incidentally during evaluation of unilateral proptosis. Neither infant had evidence of cutaneous segmental IH of the face or neck, which might have provided a clue to the diagnosis of PHACE syndrome or of intracranial hemangiomas. In one case, intracranial involvement was particularly extensive and function threatening, with mass effect on the brain parenchyma. These cases serve to highlight the fact that clinical findings of proptosis, globe deviation, and strabismus should prompt immediate imaging to confirm the presence of orbital IHs and to exclude other diagnoses. Moreover, based on our cases and the embryologic origin of the orbit as a unique developmental unit, patients with confirmed retro‐orbital IHs should undergo evaluation for anomalies associated with PHACE syndrome. Patients with orbital IHs and an additional major criterion for PHACE syndrome should be considered to have definite, and not just possible, PHACE syndrome.
A Survey to Assess Perceived Differences in Referral Pathways to Board‐Certified Pediatric Dermatologists
Authors: Fogel Alexander L. , Teng Joyce M. C.
Published: October 2015

This study surveyed all U.S. board‐certified pediatric dermatologists to determine referral pathways to the specialty; we obtained a 48% (108/226) response rate. Significantly higher self‐referral rates were found in private practice than in academic settings, and higher referral rates from specialist and generalist physicians were observed in academic practice. The substantial differences found in this preliminary study indicate that triage inefficiency may be occurring, and further study to investigate the causes for referral differences and their effect on clinical outcomes is needed.
Can International Relations and Comparative Politics Be Policy Relevant? Theory and Methods for Incorporating Political Context
Authors: Elliott Armijo Leslie , Rhodes Sybil
Published: October 2015

How might one bring international relations (IR) and comparative politics (CP) observations into the public policy (PP) literature's predominant intellectual framing of policy, in which the normal analytical unit is a specific policy sector or type of regulatory institution? This article offers a practical framework to incorporate IR and CP directly into PP analyses. We present theory and methods for composing carefully structured, multiyear, analytical policy sector histories, suitable for international and comparative PP analysis, particularly when the research goal implies policy sector comparisons across wide variations of geography, culture, income, or historical epoch. Concretely, we propose two models, called the Leader State Framework in the case of international policy and the Varieties of Political Regimes Approach for policy at the national level, which should help policy analysts utilize important observations related to our disciplines’ understanding of the diverse host political systems within which policy sectors are embedded.

Related Articles

Glen, Carol M. 2014. “” Politics & Policy 42 (): 635‐657. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com.libproxy.library.wmich.edu/doi/10.1111/polp.12093/abstract

Khodr, Hiba, and
Isabella Ruble. 2013. “.” Politics & Policy 41 (): 656–689. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/polp.12033/full

Related Media

. 2015. “Davos 2015 ‐ Forum Debate: A Multipolar World?” January 23. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjGD_qFgPhE

. 2013. “Argentina Debt: What Is the pari passu saga?” April 10. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EGPfHrPQY6Y

. 2014. “Why U.S. and China Agreed on Climate Change Action.” November 12. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmdyYgBtHSo
No Spring in Africa: How Sub‐Saharan Africa Has Avoided the Arab Spring Phenomenon
Authors: Antwi‐Boateng Osman
Published: October 2015

This article explores in detail the conditions underpinning why Sub‐Saharan Africa has avoided the Arab Spring phenomenon—despite the existence of extremely fertile grounds for political revolutions. Using a historical comparative method, the study draws chiefly from three Arab Spring countries (Tunisia, Egypt, and Libya), and identifies the key factors that aided the domino‐effect of political revolutions in the Middle East and North African (MENA) region. It then contrasts these with the domino‐inhibiting factors drawn from an examination of four Sub‐Saharan African countries: Chad, Sudan, Cameroon, and Angola. The central argument emphasizes contextual regional uniqueness. While a set of factors unique to the MENA region aided a revolution domino effect, a combination of structural, domestic, and external factors equally unique to Sub‐Saharan Africa have enabled the latter to evade the domino effect of the Arab Spring.

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Sarquís, David J. 2012. “.” Politics & Policy 40 (): 871‐903. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2012.00381.x/abstract

Khodr, Hiba, and
Isabella Ruble. 2013. “.” Politics & Policy 41 (): 656‐689. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/polp.12033/abstract

Hiroi, Taeko, and
Sawa Omori. 2013. “.” Politics & Policy 41 (): 39‐64. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/polp.12001/abstract

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Watson, Ivan, and
Jomana Karadsheh. 2011. “The Tunisian Fruitseller who Kickstarted Arab Uprising.” CNN.com. http://edition.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/meast/03/22/tunisia.bouazizi.arab.unrest/

Al Jazeera. 2011. “The Arab Awakening ‐ Death of Fear.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8_4OzV8DLw

. 2011. “How FaceBook Changed The World: The Arab Spring.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lnPR90dJ3Gk
Why Does More Pluralism Reduce Expenditure? The Case of How Mexico's Old Institutions Affect Waves of Democratic Reform
Authors: Meza Oliver
Published: October 2015

This study is concerned with the broad question of why more pluralism reduces expenditure in local governments. According to the literature, proportional representation (PR) systems are associated with greater expenditure, but I offer empirical evidence showing that the case of Mexican local governments challenges this notion. An amendment to the Federal Constitution in 1983 allowed Mexican states to change the electoral rule for assigning incumbents to local councils in municipalities. Variations in the way state legislatures interpreted the Constitution produced two types of municipal councils, with majority representation or PR. These are examined in detail and tested using a difference‐in‐difference analysis to explore the decentralization reform and its wider ramifications. I conclude that more pluralism in conjunction with the current design of local councils increases the chances of gridlock. This is evident in budgetary decisions and explains why changes to electoral rules do not suffice to improve local government performance.

Related Articles

Moreno‐Jaimes, Carlos. 2011. “.” Politics & Policy 36 (): 1021‐1052. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2011.00328.x/abstract

French, P. Edward. 2003. “” Politics & Policy 31 (): 694–725. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2003.tb00168.x/abstract

Southwell, Priscilla L. 2011. “.” Politics & Policy 39 (): 979‐996. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2011.00330.x/abstract

Related Media

. 2015. “SIMBAD: Sistema Estatal y Municipal de Bases de Datos.” http://sc.inegi.org.mx/cobdem/

. 2013. “Deuda de los estados y municipios” Youtube Video.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7KAENdctu4

Meza, Oliver D. 2015. “Ayuntamientos: arcaicos e ineficientes.” Revista Nexos, Junio, http://www.nexos.com.mx/?p=24990
Social Environments, Genetics, and Black–White Disparities in Infant Mortality
Authors: El‐Sayed Abdulrahman M. , Paczkowski Magdalena , Rutherford Caroline G. , Keyes Katherine M. , Galea Sandro
Published: October 2015

Background

Genes and environments often interplay to produce population health. However, in some instances, the scientific literature has favoured one explanation, underplaying the other, even in the absence of rigorous support. We examine parental race disparity on the risk of infant mortality to see if such an analysis might provide clues to understanding the extent to which genes and environment may shape perinatal risks.

Methods

We assessed parental racial disparities in infant mortality among singletons by analysing the risk of infant mortality among racially consonant vs. dissonant couples over time between 1989–1997 and 1998–2006 in the state of Michigan (n = 1 428 199). We calculated the degree of modification of the relation between maternal race and infant mortality by paternal race dynamically across the two time periods.

Results

Infant mortality among interracial couples decreased with time relative to white–white couples, while infant mortality among black–black couples increased with time after adjusting for socio‐economic, demographic, and prenatal care differences. The degree to which paternal black race strengthened the relation between maternal black race and higher infant mortality risk relative to white mothers increased with time throughout our study.

Conclusions

Evidence from these data suggests that environmental factors likely play the greater role in explaining the parental race disparity and risk of infant mortality.
Risk of Pregnancy Complications in Relation to Maternal Prepregnancy Body Mass Index: Population‐Based Study from Finland 2006–10
Authors: Metsälä Johanna , Stach‐Lempinen Beata , Gissler Mika , Eriksson Johan G. , Koivusalo Saila
Published: October 2015

Background

Overweight and obesity are well‐known risk factors for several pregnancy‐related complications, but the nature of the association between maternal adiposity and these complications has been less studied. The objective of the present study was to examine the shape and the magnitude of the association between maternal prepregnancy body mass index and the risk of gestational diabetes, pre‐eclampsia of different severity, gestational hypertension, and obstetric cholestasis among Finnish primiparae women.

Methods

Data on all primiparae women who delivered a singleton newborn in Finland between 2006 and 2010 were identified from the Finnish Medical Birth Register and the Finnish Hospital Discharge Register (n = 119 485). Associations were analysed using restricted cubic spline regression and logistic regression models.

Results

There was a nonlinear dose‐dependent association between body mass index and the risk of gestational diabetes, pre‐eclampsia, and gestational hypertension, and the risk was increased already among normal weight primiparae women. However, in the presence of pre‐existing hypertension or diabetes body mass index was not associated with the risk of pre‐eclampsia.

Conclusions

Efforts to reduce prepregnancy overweight and obesity need to be intensified, and also, measures to better identify those normal weight women who are at increased risk of gestational diabetes, pre‐eclampsia and gestational hypertension should be developed.
Embracing variability: environmental dependence and plant community context in ecological restoration
Authors: Dickens Sara Jo M. , Mangla Seema , Preston Kristine L. , Suding Katherine N.
Published: October 2015

In heterogeneous landscapes, one can expect a complexity of ecological restoration outcomes. The effectiveness of management often depends on environmental conditions (environmental context) and how management indirectly affects other components of the system (community context). Although managers appreciate this context dependency, it is difficult to translate it to decision‐making in restoration. We demonstrate one approach to improve this translation. We surveyed plant, soil, and landscape characteristics at 131 grassland and coastal sage sites that received herbicide treatments to remove non‐native plant species and/or propagule addition to increase native species. We used path analysis to describe how each management approach influenced target non‐native species and how interactions with environmental conditions and indirect effects of management influenced plant community composition. This approach enabled us to analyze a complex system with differing management histories to identify both direct and indirect effects of management. Management had the intended direct effects: the application of herbicide and propagule addition directly reduced non‐native species and increased native species, respectively. We found little evidence of environmental dependency: effects occurred largely independent of environmental conditions. However, management outcomes did depend on plant community context. Specifically, although herbicide reduced the cover of target, non‐native plant species, this reduction resulted in only slight increases in native species and instead led indirectly to increases in non‐targeted, non‐native species. We suggest that quantitative evaluation of variability in restoration outcomes allows management to be more adaptive and increase decision‐making efficacy in complex managed landscapes.
Corruption, Financial Resources and Exports
Authors: Liu Qing , Lu Ruosi , Ma Xiangjun
Published: October 2015

This paper argues that a country's comparative advantage in exports depends on both the factor abundance and the allocation efficiency of the endowments. However, the latter is not considered in the traditional Heckscher–Ohlin model. In line with the “sand” view of corruption, this paper empirically studies the role of corruption in shaping a country's export pattern by distorting the allocation of financial resources. We find that the resource misallocation resulting from corruption undermines the export growth promoted by the positive external financial shock. The negative effects are realized by the extensive margins instead of the intensive margins of heterogeneous firms.
The Large‐Time Solution of Burgers' Equation with Time‐Dependent Coefficients. I. The Coefficients Are Exponential Functions
Authors: Leach J. A.
Published: October 2015

In this paper, we consider an initial‐value problem for Burgers' equation with variable coefficients
urn:x-wiley:00222526:media:sapm12098:sapm12098-math-0001where x and t represent dimensionless distance and time, respectively, and , are given functions of t. In particular, we consider the case when the initial data have algebraic decay as , with as and as . The constant states and are problem parameters. Two specific initial‐value problems are considered. In initial‐value problem 1 we consider the case when and , while in initial‐value problem 2 we consider the case when and . The method of matched asymptotic coordinate expansions is used to obtain the large‐t asymptotic structure of the solution to both initial‐value problems over all parameter values.