bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do plant traits predict the competitive abilities of closely related species?
Authors: Schwartz Lauren M. , Gibson David J. , Young Bryan G.
Published: January 2016

Invasive species are a threat to every ecosystem. There is a strong incentive to predict which species will become invasive before they become too widespread and unmanageable. Different approaches have been advocated to assess invasive species potential. These include examining plant functional traits, quantifying competitive ability and phylogenetic comparison. In this study, we conducted experiments based on the above approaches in a multi-year, temporally replicated, set of experiments to compare these assessment methods to determine the invasive potential of Japanese chaff flower ( Achyranthes japonica ). We compared plant traits and competitive ability of Japanese chaff flower with two agricultural invasive species, Palmer amaranth ( Amaranthus palmeri ) and tall waterhemp ( Amaranthus tuberculatus ), and one endangered plant species, bloodleaf ( Iresine rhizomatosa ), in the Amaranthaceae. Additionally, we assessed the invasive potential based on each of these approaches and determined the degree of agreement between them. A relatively conservative assessment integrating all three approaches would be that the competitive ability of closely related individuals with similar functional traits would share invasive potential. In a greenhouse experiment, each of the study species and soya beans were grown as monocultures and were evaluated to assess the drawdown of an aboveground (light) and a belowground (nitrogen) resource. In a field experiment, each study species was grown at varying densities per 15-cm-diameter pot with or without one or two soya bean plants, to simulate relative densities for soya beans grown in 38- and 76-cm-wide row spacing, respectively. In addition, Japanese chaff flower seedlings were planted either as un-manipulated seedlings or as a seedling cut back to the soil surface at the four-node stage (cut Japanese chaff flower) at which point seedlings have reached a perennial growth stage. The greenhouse experiment showed that each species drew down light differently, but not nitrogen. Shading decreased the aboveground biomass of the species in comparison with unshaded controls. Nitrogen, however, increased the aboveground biomass of Palmer amaranth and Japanese chaff flower. In the field experiment, a competitive effect ranking was determined to be: tall waterhemp ≥ Palmer amaranth = cut Japanese chaff flower ≥ uncut Japanese chaff flower ≥ bloodleaf, with the competitive response ranking being the inverse. These results suggest that under specific conditions, these closely related species do exhibit similar competitive abilities. Furthermore, the invasiveness and not the life history or habitat of these closely related species appeared to be the driving factor of competitiveness.
A new inclination instability reshapes Keplerian discs into cones: application to the outer Solar system
Authors: Madigan Ann-Marie , McCourt Michael
Published: January 2016

Discs of bodies orbiting a much more massive central object are extremely common in astrophysics. When the orbits comprising such discs are eccentric, we show they are susceptible to a new dynamical instability. Gravitational forces between bodies in the disc drive exponential growth of their orbital inclinations and clustering in their angles of pericentre, expanding an initially thin disc into a conical shape by giving each orbit an identical ‘tilt’ with respect to the disc plane. This new instability dynamically produces the unusual distribution of orbits observed for minor planets beyond Neptune, suggesting that the instability has shaped the outer Solar system. It also implies a large disc mass (∼ 1–10 Earth masses) of scattered bodies at hundreds of au; we predict increasing numbers of detections of minor planets clustered in their angles of pericentre with high inclinations.
Fractional Integration Methods and Short Time Series: Evidence from a Simulation Study
Authors: Helgason Agnar Freyr
Published: January 2016

Grant and Lebo (2016) and Keele, Linn, and Webb (2016) provide diverging recommendations to analysts working with short time series that are potentially fractionally integrated. While Grant and Lebo are quite positive about the prospects of fractionally differencing such data, Keele, Linn, and Webb argue that estimates of fractional integration will be highly uncertain in short time series. In this study, I simulate fractionally integrated data and compare estimates from the general error correction model (GECM), which disregards fractional integration, to models using fractional integration methods over thirty-two simulation conditions. I find that estimates of short-run effects are similar across the two models, but that models using fractionally differenced data produce superior predictions of long-run effects for all sample sizes when there are no short-run dynamics included. When short-run dynamics are included, the GECM outperforms the alternative model, but only in time series that consist of under 250 observations.
Concluding Comments
Authors: Keele Luke , Linn Suzanna , Webb Clayton McLaughlin
Published: January 2016

This issue began as an exchange between Grant and Lebo (2016) and ourselves (Keele, Linn, and Webb 2016) about the utility of the general error correction model (GECM) in political science. The exchange evolved into a debate about Grant and Lebo's proposed alternative to the GECM and the utility of fractional integration methods (FIM). Esarey (2016) and Helgason (2016) weigh in on this part of the debate. Freeman (2016) offers his views on the exchange as well. In the end, the issue leaves readers with a lot to consider. In his comment, Freeman (2016) argues that the exchange has produced little significant progress because of the contributors' failures to consider a wide array of topics not directly related to the GECM or FIM. We are less pessimistic. In what follows, we distill what we believe are the most important elements of the exchange–the importance of balance, the costs and benefits of FIM, and the vagaries of pre-testing.
Structure of the human histone chaperone FACT Spt16 N-terminal domain
Authors: Marcianò G. , Huang D. T.
Published: January 2016

The histone chaperone FACT plays an important role in facilitating nucleosome assembly and disassembly during transcription. FACT is a heterodimeric complex consisting of Spt16 and SSRP1. The N-terminal domain of Spt16 resembles an inactive aminopeptidase. How this domain contributes to the histone chaperone activity of FACT remains elusive. Here, the crystal structure of the N-terminal domain (NTD) of human Spt16 is reported at a resolution of 1.84 Å. The structure adopts an aminopeptidase-like fold similar to those of theSaccharomyces cerevisiaeandSchizosaccharomyces pombeSpt16 NTDs. Isothermal titration calorimetry analyses show that human Spt16 NTD binds histones H3/H4 with low-micromolar affinity, suggesting that Spt16 NTD may contribute to histone binding in the FACT complex. Surface-residue conservation and electrostatic analysis reveal a conserved acidic patch that may be involved in histone binding.
Crystal structure oftrans-(1,8-dibutyl-1,3,6,8,10,13-hexaazacyclotetradecane-κ4N3,N6,N10,N13)bis(isonicotinato-κO)nickel(II) determined from synchrotron data
Authors: Shin Jong Won , Kim Dae-Woong , Moon Dohyun
Published: January 2016

The title compound, [Ni(C6H4NO2)2(C16H38N6)], was prepared through self-assembly of a nickel(II) azamacrocyclic complex with isonicotinic acid. The NiIIatom is located on an inversion center and exhibits a distorted octahedral N4O2coordination environment, with the four secondary N atoms of the azamacrocyclic ligand in the equatorial plane [average Ni—Neq= 2.064 (11) Å] and two O atoms of monodentate isonicotinate anions in axial positions [Ni—Oax= 2.137 (1) Å]. Intramolecular N—H...O hydrogen bonds between one of the secondary amine N atoms of the azamacrocyclic ligand and the non-coordinating carboxylate O atom of the anion stabilize the molecular structure. Intermolecular N—H...N hydrogen bonds, as well as π–π interactions between neighbouring pyridine rings, give rise to the formations of supramolecular ribbons extending parallel to [001].
(E)-N-[Cyclopentyl(morpholin-4-yl)methylidene]-4-fluorobenzenesulfonamide
Authors: Efimov Ilya , Slepukhin Pavel , Beliaev Nikolai , Bakulev Vasiliy
Published: January 2016

The title compound, C16H21FN2O3S, was obtained from the reaction between sulfonyl azide, cyclohexanone and morpholine. The bond lengths at the amidine N—C—N grouping are similar [1.326 (3) and 1.338 (3) Å], indicating significant conjugation. The cyclopentyl moiety displays disorder of one of the methylene groups into two orientations with occupancy coefficients 0.75/0.25. No shortened intermolecular contacts in the crystal are observed.
2-Chloro-1-ferrocenylethanol
Authors: McAdam C. John , Simpson Jim
Published: January 2016

In the title compound, [Fe(C5H5)(C7H8ClO)], the ferrocene cyclopentadiene rings are slightly staggered and inclined to one another at an angle of 0.79 (13)°. In the crystal, C—H...Cl and C—H...O hydrogen bonds each form inversion dimers and these combine with an edge-to-face C—H...π hydrogen bond to stack the molecules along theb-axis direction.
Internal rent – experiences from public sector in Norway
Authors: Lædre Ola , Lohne Jardar , Haugen Tore
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to identify the advantages and disadvantages of introducing internal rent and to find the main success factors when introducing internal rent.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper’s analysis is based on experience from the introduction of internal rent models within four major Norwegian public organisations. The experience is documented after 19 semi-structured interviews with stakeholders representing the client organisations, property management and tenants.

Findings

– The major advantage consist in that internal rent compels the different users to discipline concerning the use of space and make them adapt their use to fit the real needs and demand for space suited for their primary activities. The main disadvantage of internal rent consists in the temporary organisational noise that results from the introduction and the permanent extra bureaucratic burden it causes. The success factors for introduction of internal rent are: the users need to perceive the model as of real importance, the property management must take in enough funds to assure reliable maintenance and the client needs to avoid that the tenants think the model is constructed to seize funds.

Originality/value

– The authors discuss a market-orientated approach to property management, namely, introducing internal rent models. It is more than a decade ago since internal rent was first introduced in the analysed public organisations. Now it is possible to identify the success factors – related to the advantages and disadvantages – from this introduction.
The 3D printing order: variability, supercenters and supply chain reconfigurations
Authors: Sasson Amir , Johnson John Chandler
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– Direct digital manufacturing (DDM) is conceived of as either disrupting the entire manufacturing economy or merely enabling novel production. The purpose of this paper is to introduce an alternative where DDM coexists with and complements traditional mass production. When multiple parts run across one manufacturing line, DDM can isolate variability associated with low volume part production and may be preferred to mass production despite being expensive. If DDM complements rather than cannibalizes mass production, this alters the understanding of who adopts DDM, the products built with DDM, and DDM’s long-term supply chain implications.

Design/methodology/approach

– This invited paper explores a DDM rollout scenario and qualitatively assesses potential supply chain reconfigurations.

Findings

– The analysis recognizes that existing manufacturers with heterogeneous bills-of-material may develop DDM capabilities to isolate disruptive, low-volume production from scalable mass production. Developing DDM competence and raw material scale advantages, these manufacturers become the locus of change in a manufacturing landscape increasingly characterized by multi-product DDM supercenters.

Originality/value

– Extant research largely focusses on two potential reasons for DDM adoption: cost-per-unit and time-to-delivery comparisons. The authors explore a third driver: DDM’s capacity to isolate manufacturing variability attributable to low volume parts. Relative to the extant literature, this suggests a different DDM rollout, different adopters, and a different supply chain configuration. The authors identify mass manufacturing variability reduction as the mechanism through which DDM may be adopted. This adoption trajectory would eventually enable a supply chain transition in which spare parts inventory migrates from finished goods at proprietary facilities to raw materials at generalized DDM supercenters.
The effect of intrinsic and extrinsic motivations on mobile coupon sharing in social network sites
Authors: Tang Qing , Zhao Xuefeng , Liu Shan
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence of two intrinsic (i.e. sense of self-worth and socializing) and two extrinsic motivations (i.e. economic reward and reciprocity) on mobile coupon (m-coupon) sharing by users in social network sites (SNSs). Moreover, this study examines how coupon proneness moderates the relationship between motivations and m-coupon sharing in SNSs.

Design/methodology/approach

– A research model that integrates four motivations, coupon proneness, and m-coupon sharing is developed. Quantitative data from 247 users are collected via online and offline survey. Partial least squares technique is employed to evaluate the measurement model, and hypotheses are tested through hierarchical regression analysis.

Findings

– Sense of self-worth, socializing, economic reward and reciprocity have positive effects on m-coupon sharing in SNSs. Furthermore, coupon proneness positively moderates the relationship of socializing and reciprocity with m-coupon sharing, whereas the moderating effects of coupon proneness on the relationship of sense of self-worth and economic reward with m-coupon sharing are insignificant.

Originality/value

– The findings highlight the integrated effects of coupon proneness and motivations on m-coupon sharing in SNS. The impact of socializing and reciprocity on m-coupon sharing is higher for users with higher coupon proneness. However, the effect of sense of self-worth and economic reward on m-coupon sharing is the same regardless of coupon proneness of users. Therefore, although users with different motivations should be identified, SNSs and merchants should develop different incentive mechanisms to promote m-coupon sharing among various users.
Students’ perspective on knowledge quality in eLearning context: a qualitative assessment
Authors: Waheed Mehwish , Kaur Kiran , Qazi Atika
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to identify the unique d

i

mensions associated with knowledge quality (KQ) based on students’ perception in an educational institution.

Design/methodology/approach

– Purposive sampling was used to select students who were active users of the electronic-Learning (eLearning) system at two faculties in a single university. The qualitative data gathering employed an unstructured open-ended questionnaire distributed to the 52 selected participants.

Findings

– The qualitative findings unearth the students’ perspective about quality of knowledge gained from content used in online courses. In total, 34 underlying sub-dimensions of KQ emerged, which were categorized into five KQ dimensions: intrinsic KQ, contextual KQ, representational KQ, accessible KQ, and actionable KQ.

Research limitations/implications

– The findings provide an insight to educators to consider KQ dimensions in providing quality knowledge to students in an eLearning environment.

Originality/value

– Previous studies have used information quality dimensions to measure KQ because of a lack of conceptualization of KQ that leads to difficulties in operationalizing this construct. In this study, a conceptual and operational definition of KQ, in the context of eLearning, is proposed based on grounded data from students participating in an online learning environment.
Biodiversity and local government: a reporting and accountability perspective
Authors: Barut Meropy , Raar Jean , Azim Mohammad I
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to illuminate the disclosure of biodiversity material contained in the reported information of 151 local government authorities (LGAs) in New South Wales, Australia. The introduction of the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity (an international treaty to sustain the rich diversity of life on earth) has made the issue of fauna management and monitoring, and the associated requirement for cost-effective information, much more important. As local communities are best placed to make decisions about the protection of their local environments, the content in external reports and other disclosures allows stakeholders to gauge how accountable LGAs are regarding the conservation of biodiversity within their geographical jurisdiction.

Design/methodology/approach

– Content analysis was used to analyze the disclosures of these LGAs.

Findings

– The results reveal marked differences in the reporting of biodiversity issues. In fact, LGAs in the state of New South Wales (Australia) have been, at best, lukewarm in their disclosure of strategic information relating to biodiversity, particularly in their strategic goals and plans.

Originality/value

– This paper contributes to the academic literature on biodiversity reporting by investigating existing reporting practices and providing evidence that a universally adopted framework for biodiversity reporting and reporting of local native fauna is required. In particular, the impacts of these practices need to be properly understood for LGAs to provide accountability to their stakeholders.
Conceptualising integrated thinking in practice
Authors: Oliver Judy , Vesty Gillian , Brooks Albie
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to offer theoretical and practical insights on the ways in which integrated thinking is observed in practice. Integrated thinking is linked to integrated reporting, and described as an attribute or capacity for senior management to constructively manage tensions between the multiple capitals (manufactured, intellectual, human, natural, social and relationship as well as financial capital) in strategy, resource allocation, performance measurement and control.

Design/methodology/approach

– A theoretical framework is developed from the accounting and systems thinking literature, linking integrated thinking to sustainability. Soft versus hard integrated thinking approaches are applied to contrast the siloed management of sustainability with a model that focuses on relationships and broader indicators of societal health and well-being. Practical illustrations of the conceptualised framework are presented for discussion and for further empirical research.

Findings

– The illustrative examples offer a diversity of corporate, government and not-for-profit viewpoints, providing evidence of both hard and soft integrated thinking in practice. Valuable insights are provided into innovative approaches that foster and make explicit the soft integrated thinking skills and map them to broader societal outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

– Potential problems can arise if hard integrated thinking dominates over the soft, and data required for internal management accounting purposes become narrow, linear and segregated. Routines and practices will then be based on quasi-standards, further concealing the soft integrated thinking that might be occurring within the organisation.

Originality/value

– With theoretical roots in systems thinking, this paper contributes to the relatively underexplored area of integrated thinking in accounting for sustainability.
The earnings management opportunity for US oil and gas firms during the 2011 Arab Spring event
Authors: Hsiao Daniel F. , Hu Yan , Lin Jerry W.
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– This study aims to examine whether US oil and gas companies engaged in earnings management during the 2011 Arab Spring, which resulted in significant increases in both crude oil and gasoline prices.

Design/methodology/approach

– Following a similar research methodology from prior research, this study tests the existence of earnings management based on discretionary total accruals, current accruals and non-current accruals to determine whether both large petroleum refining firms and relatively small oil and gas-producing firms, jointly and separately, lowered reported earnings.

Findings

– The results show that, overall, US oil and gas companies as a group engaged in income-decreasing earnings management during the Arab Spring. The results seem to support the political cost hypothesis. However, further analyses indicate that the results are driven by abnormal income-decreasing accruals of the relatively small oil and gas-producing firms, which are politically less sensitive.

Research limitations/implications

– The findings suggest that there may be other non-political cost incentives, such as income smoothing, for the relatively small oil and gas-producing firms managing earnings downward during periods of large oil price increases. However, the possibility for firms with reversals of income-increasing activity from other quarters is not ruled out.

Originality/value

– This study not only is the first empirical study of earnings management by oil and gas companies during the Arab Spring, but also contributes to extant earnings management literature regarding political cost hypothesis, which still remains a major concern for US oil and gas companies.
Genes that affect Atlantic salmon growth in hatchery do not have the same effect in the wild
Authors: Vasemägi Anti , Kahar Siim , Ozerov Mikhail Yu
Published: January 2016

Dissecting the genetic mechanisms of phenotypic traits that influence fitness in diverse environments provides the important first step towards understanding the robustness of the observed genotype–phenotype associations, the role of genotype‐by‐environment interaction (GEI) shaping fitness trade‐offs and maintaining genetic variation of quantitative traits. However, the molecular basis of complex traits in vertebrates has rarely, if ever, been studied simultaneously in natural and controlled laboratory environments.

To evaluate whether the same genomic regions affect the growth of juvenile Atlantic salmon in wild and hatchery conditions, we mappedQTLs affecting the size‐at‐age of juvenile parr after the first summer utilizing the same mapping (family) material to avoid confounding effects of different genetic background.

We identified three significantQTLs for fork length in the hatchery that were undetectable in the natural environment, while twoQTLs detected in the wild were not observed when fish were reared in hatchery conditions. Altogether, four individual markers showed significant (P < 0·05) genotype‐by‐environment interactions. The allelic effects for threeQTLs observed in the hatchery were in the same direction in both environments, while for twoQTLs the alleles associated with a larger body size in the wild showed the opposite (albeit non‐significant) trend in the hatchery environment.

Our results indicate that the growth of juvenile salmon in two contrasting environments is controlled by different genetic mechanisms that are most likely influenced by multiple processes, including food availability, inter‐ and intraspecific competition, and trade‐offs between the costs and benefits of individual movement in the wild. Furthermore, the findings of the study imply that a substantial proportion of growth‐relatedQTLs reported by earlier studies in a hatchery environment may representQTLs specific to farmed conditions and hence have no effect on fish growth in the wild. For comprehensive understanding of the molecular, physiological and ecological mechanisms influencing complex traits, it is therefore crucial to evaluate the genotype–phenotype relationships under natural conditions, rather than relying solely on laboratory experiments.
Incorporating human behaviour into the risk–release relationship for invasion vectors: why targeting only the worst offenders can fail to reduce spread
Authors: Floerl Oliver , Inglis Graeme J. , Diettrich Jan
Published: January 2016

Models of the spread of invasive species in transportation networks often assume a constant probability of transport across vectors, an assumption that is known to be false. The human dimension of these pathways is an important contributor to variation in vector risks. Yet, little attempt has been made to understand the effectiveness of strategies that involve changing risky behaviours.

We modelled the efficacy of management campaigns that aim to reduce the spread of invasive biofouling organisms by improving antifouling behaviour of boaters. We examined the influence of three factors on the effectiveness of the campaigns: (i) the proportion of the vessel population that is targeted by the measure, (ii) the average amount of change in behaviour made by individual boaters and (iii) the rate of uptake of the measure by the targeted population.

The modelled campaigns reduced the spread of an invasive species within New Zealand's recreational boating network by 0–56% over a 10‐year period. The outcome depended strongly on the combination of the three factors examined.

Strategies that targeted only the ‘worst offenders’ caused relatively little reduction in spread unless there was very high uptake of the measure (>75% compliance) and a larger shift from current practice than could reasonably be expected. In comparison, a strategy that utilized a lower threshold for renewing the coatings and targeted a larger proportion of boaters was three times more effective, even for modest changes in current behaviour.

Synthesis and applications. Vector management can be effective in reducing the spread of a marine invader, but campaigns need to be well designed if they are to be effective. Their success will be determined by the shape of the ‘risk–release relationship’ and where along this curve the population of vectors lies. Greatest gains are likely when measures are targeted at critical transition points, where relatively small changes in behaviour lead to a considerable reduction in risk. High uptake of measures is required to reduce spread significantly. Combined ‘carrot and stick’ approaches that incorporate incentives for compliance are likely to be most effective at eliciting meaningful levels of change.
The Bishops and the Duke of Buckingham, 1624–1626
Authors: Parry Mark
Published: January 2016

This article seeks to demonstrate the political activism of the bishops, particularly through their role in the House of Lords, and the extent to which they were polarized by their attitudes to the royal favourite, the duke of Buckingham. Buckingham himself was as divisive a force among the episcopate as he was among the laity, and it will be argued here that the anti‐Calvinists, conscious of the favourite's support of them as a patron, went to great lengths to cultivate his favour, defend him against the threat of impeachment in parliament and to have him elected chancellor of the University of Cambridge. As such this article highlights the importance of aristocratic patronage relationships among the bishops and the inextricable links between theology and politics in the highly charged parliamentary atmosphere of the 1620s.
Analysis of energy security and sustainability in future low carbon scenarios for Brazil
Authors: Lima Fátima , Portugal‐Pereira Joana , Lucena André F.P. , Rochedo Pedro , Cunha Jorge , Lopes Nunes Manuel , Szklo Alexandre Salem
Published: January 2016

This study estimated a series of indicators to assess the energy security of supply and global and local environmental impacts under different mitigation scenarios through 2050 in Brazil, designed with the integrated optimization energy system model MESSAGE‐BRAZIL. The assessment of interactions between environmental impacts and energy security dimensions was complemented through the application of life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. Overall results imply energy security establishes more synergies than trade‐offs in increasingly stringent mitigation scenarios, especially patent within the sustainability dimension, which increases energy security and provides additional benefits regarding climate change mitigation and air pollution emissions. It is still necessary to extend analysis to other energy sectors in addition to the power supply sector and to promote a better understanding of repercussions of energy scenario expansion in energy security.
Predictors for urologic intervention and alternate diagnoses in people having computed tomography urography for suspected renal colic
Authors: Blecher Gabriel , Meek Robert , Egerton‐Warburton Diana , McCahy Philip , Bach Cindy , Boulos Daniel
Published: January 2016

Objective

The majority of ureteric calculi pass spontaneously and are uncomplicated, yet use of computed tomography urography (CTU) has increased in recent years. This study describes a cohort of ED patients undergoing CTU for renal colic and assesses the predictors of urologic intervention.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study enrolled patients who underwent CTU at three Melbourne EDs. Demographic data, clinical assessments, laboratory and radiological findings and interventions were abstracted. Univariate analysis was performed and significant predictors were entered into a multivariate logistic regression model to calculate adjusted odds ratios for associations with urologic intervention.

Results

Six hundred and seventeen patients underwent 626 CTUs; mean age was 48 and 67.7% were male. 58.2% of scans found calculi, of which median size was 4 mm. 9.2% of scans revealed an alternate diagnosis, of which 2.7% were acutely important. 14.6% of patients with calculi received an intervention. Multivariate analysis found the factors associated with intervention were female sex (OR 3.9, 95% CI 1.8–8.7), proximal calculus site (OR 4.1, 95% CI 1.5–11.7), single kidney (OR 9.0, 95% CI 1.7–49.0) and calculus size > 5 mm (OR 7.0, 95% CI 3.3–14.7).

Conclusion

Factors associated with urologic intervention included female sex, single kidney, calculus size >5 mm and proximal calculus. Information on acute alternate diagnoses was uncommon. A prospective study is needed to further clarify clinical parameters that could predict intervention to allow targeting of CTU to those most likely to benefit.
Poor postdischarge head growth is related to a 10% lower intelligence quotient in very preterm infants at the chronological age of five years
Authors: Neubauer Vera , Fuchs Teresa , Griesmaier Elke , Kager Katrin , Pupp‐Peglow Ulrike , Kiechl‐Kohlendorfer Ursula
Published: January 2016

Aim

This study examined the relationship between head growth and cognitive outcome at the age of five years in preterm infants born at less than 32 weeks of gestation from 2003 to 2009, as previous research has mostly focused on outcomes in toddlers.

Methods

The head circumference of 273 very preterm infants born in Tyrol, Austria, was measured at birth, discharge, the corrected ages of three, 12 and 24 months and the chronological age of five years. Suboptimal head size was defined as a head circumference of more than one standard deviation below the mean. Full‐scale intelligence quotient (IQ) at five years was determined using Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scales of Intelligence, third edition.

Results

Infants with a suboptimal head size at the age of three months had a significantly lower median IQ than those with a normal head size (90 [20–122] versus 98 [20–138], p = 0.001) and from three months onwards they were more likely to exhibit cognitive delay.

Conclusion

A suboptimal head size from the age of three months was consistently related to a 10% lower IQ, and this study adds further evidence that head growth failure, especially during the early postdischarge period, is related to impaired cognitive abilities.
Editorial: Beware the six honest serving men‐ like the Elephant's child, the questions about implementation just keep coming
Authors: Harnett Paul
Published: January 2016

This editorial introduces a series of articles that highlight the need for more research to address issues related to the implementation of treatments in routine settings. One of the themes highlighted by these papers is the importance of conceptual frameworks. Conceptual models guide the assessment process and provide the underlying logic model for different treatment programmes, but there is no agreed conceptual framework to guide the development of clinical decisions. A second theme raised by these papers is the importance of understanding the mechanisms underlying the development of mental health problems in young children, and the mediators and moderators of change. The third theme relates to the adoption of new assessment and treatment models. An awareness of issues related to implementation is important in facilitating the uptake of evidence‐informed assessment and treatment models into routine clinical practice.
Nimotuzumab plus paclitaxel and cisplatin as the first line treatment for advanced esophageal squamous cell cancer: A single centre prospective phase II trial
Authors: Lu Ming , Wang Xicheng , Shen Lin , Jia Jun , Gong Jifang , Li Jie , Li Jian , Li Yan , Zhang Xiaotian , Lu Zhihao , Zhou Jun , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: January 2016

Nimotuzumab (N) is a humanized anti‐epidermal growth factor receptor monoclonal antibody. This prospective, single‐armed, open label phase II study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the combination of paclitaxel (T)/cisplatin (P) with nimotuzumab (N) as first‐line treatment in advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Patients with pathologic confirmed unresectable locally advanced or metastatic ESCC were treated with the TPN regimen: nimotuzumab 200 mg weekly, paclitaxel 175 mg/m2 on day 1 and cisplatin 30 mg/m2 on days 1 and 2; repeat cycle every 3 weeks for six cycles. Radiotherapy was allowed to be admitted after four cycles of TPN treatment. The primary endpoint was the objective response rate (ORR). The secondary endpoint was the overall survival (OS), duration of disease control (DDC) and toxicities. From March 2011 to April 2013, a total of 59 patients were enrolled and 56 were eligible for the final analysis. Overall RR was 51.8% and disease control rate (DCR) (CR + PR + SD) was 92.9%. Local treatment (radiotherapy or surgery) followed by chemotherapy improved the duration of disease control for patients with metastatic disease and local‐regional advanced disease to 8.2 months and more than 23 months, respectively. The OS for patients with metastatic disease was 14.0 months (95% CI: 6.8–21.2 months). The most common G3/4 toxicities were neutropenia (46.4%), nausea (48.3%), alopecia (78.6%), anorexia (42.8%), vomiting (55.4%), arthralgia (62.5%) and anorexia (5%). Adding nimotuzumab to the standard TP regiment was safe, and well tolerated. The TPN regimen is an effective combination as the first‐line chemotherapy for the patients with advanced ESCC, and appears more active than current standard regimens.
Chamberlin Meets Ciriacy‐Wantrup: Using Insights from Experimental Economics to Inform Stated Preference Research
Authors: Vossler Christian A.
Published: January 2016

Many studies that use stated preference (SP) surveys to estimate the demand for private or public goods can be characterized as experiments, although they are not routinely labeled as such. This paper draws from the broader experimental economics literature to provide insights for SP practitioners and researchers, particularly as it pertains to survey development, mechanism design, external validity, data analysis, and the dissemination of findings.
The Italian Way to Stem Cell Research: Rethinking the Role of Catholic Religion in Shaping Italian Stem Cell Research Regulations
Authors: Beltrame Lorenzo
Published: January 2016

Stem cell research regulations are highly variable across nations, notwithstanding shared and common ethical concerns. Dominant in political debates has been the so‐called embryo question. However, the permissibility of human embryonic stem cell (hESC) research varies among national regulatory frameworks. Scholars have explained differences by resorting to notions of political culture, traditions of ethical reasoning, discursive strategies and political manoeuvring of involved actors. Explanations based on the role of religion or other cultural structural variables are also employed. This paper analyses the emerging of the Italian regulatory framework on stem cell research using an analytical framework that considers the interplay between cultural structural features, political culture, traditions of ethical reasoning, institutional settings and the discursive and political agency of the actors involved. It aims also to explain the role of Roman Catholic Church in shaping the Italian stem cell research regulation not by treating religion as an autonomous causal factor, but through the analysis of the agency of Catholic and allied actors in the Italian political culture and institutional setting.
No ethical divide between China and the West in human embryo research
Authors: Zhai Xiaomei , Ng Vincent , Lie Reidar
Published: January 2016

This is a discussion of the reaction to the recent research article publication in the journal Protein & Cell by a group of scientists at Sun Yat‐sen University using the CRISPR/Cas9 technique on editing non‐viable human zygotes. Many commentators condemned the Chinese scientists for overstepping ethical boundaries long accepted in Western countries and accused China of having lax regulations on genomic research in general. We argue that not only did this research follow strict ethical standards and fully comply with current regulations, but China also has a well‐developed regulatory framework governing such research comparable to many developed countries. We see the reactions among Western commentators as a misunderstanding of the current situation and an expression of a lack of willingness to acknowledge China as an equal partner in the international debate about proper limits to the development of new biotechnologies.
Habitat selection by a despotic passerine, the Bell Miner (Manorina melanophrys): When restoring habitat through Lantana (Lantana camara) removal is not enough
Authors: Lambert Kathryn T. A. , Kumar Lalit , Reid Nick , McDonald Paul G.
Published: January 2016

The Bell Miner (Manorina melanophrys) occurs in logged eucalypt forest in northern NSW with a dense understorey of the invasive Neotropical shrub Lantana (Lantana camara) that is used for nesting. The link between Bell Miners and Lantana is important as the birds aggressively exclude all smaller and similar‐sized birds from their colonies, reducing avian diversity in forest occupied by the species. We monitored the impact of Lantana removal on Bell Miner persistence in several plots in two logged forest sites, along with untreated control plots at one of the sites. Lantana control was successful over 7 years at both sites, with regeneration of native understorey, midstorey and canopy species compensating for the loss of live Lantana cover in the understorey. Bell Miner individuals vacated the treated plots in one site (Creek's Bend) but persisted in the control and treated plots at the second site (Toonumbar National Park). Bell Miner response was correlated with forest structure: birds vacated forest with a sparse understorey (<5 m) but dense midstorey (5–15 m) and canopy (>15 m) at Creek's Bend, but remained at the site with a dense understorey but sparse midstorey and canopy at Toonumbar. We therefore predict that forest restoration that simultaneously reduces Lantana understorey and increases midstorey density will be most successful in reducing the abundance of the despotic Bell Miner and increasing avian diversity in rehabilitated sites.
The effectiveness of short‐term fox control in protecting a seasonally vulnerable species, the Eastern Long‐necked Turtle (Chelodina longicollis)
Authors: Robley Alan , Howard Katie , Lindeman Michael , Cameron Rhet , Jardine Andrew , Hiscock David
Published: January 2016

Reducing predation by introduced predators on seasonally vulnerable prey is of interest to biodiversity and game managers around the world. In Australia, the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) is a significant predator of freshwater turtle nests, destroying up to 93% of nests. We used a nonrandomized intervention study to assess the effectiveness of a short‐term (3‐week) but broad‐scale baiting operation in reducing the level of nest predation on artificial turtle nests around a complex lake system during a major flooding event in north‐western Victoria. Estimates of fox occupancy declined from 0.58 (0.44–0.70 95% CI) to 0.34 (0.21–0.46 95% CI) following fox control. Modelling of nest‐survival rates indicated there was no significant change in survival rates. Effective short‐term predator control to protect seasonally vulnerable prey is desirable and achievable. Knowledge of underlying predator density, predator–bait encounter and consumption rates, and the optimal duration of short‐term control is needed to reduce the risk to prey.
Enhanced long‐term potentiation in mature rats in a model of epileptic spasms with betamethasone‐priming and postnatal N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate administration
Authors: Tsuji Megumi , Takahashi Yukari , Watabe Ayako M. , Kato Fusao
Published: January 2016

Objective

Patients with epileptic spasms are at high risk for learning and memory impairment later in life. We examined whether synaptic plasticity is affected in the adult hippocampus, a structure responsible for learning and memory, using an animal model of epileptic spasms of unknown cause.

Methods

We produced a rat model of N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA)–induced spasms combined with prenatal betamethasone administration. In 6‐ to 11‐week‐old rats, we evaluated the long‐term potentiation (LTP) and general properties of synaptic transmission in pyramidal neurons in the CA1 area of the hippocampus in brain slices.

Results

The magnitude of LTP by theta burst stimulation was significantly larger in adult rats with a history of infantile NMDA injections than in control rats and rats that received additional adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) treatment. The frequency of spontaneous excitatory transmission, but not inhibitory transmission, was smaller in adult rats with a history of infantile NMDA injections.

Significance

This study is the first to provide a basis for the alteration of synaptic plasticity and transmission in a model of epileptic spasms of unknown cause. Postnatal NMDA treatment causing epileptic spasms–like aberrant episodes in the early stage of life in rats has a latent influence on various forms of synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus. Our results provide a novel insight into cognitive impairment that appears later in life in patients with a history of epileptic spasms.
Suspect West Nile virus encephalomyelitis in an imported horse in theUK
Authors: Gonzalez‐Medina S. , Alzola R. , Newton J. R.
Published: January 2016

This report describes a suspect case of West Nile virus (WNV) encephalomyelitis, reported for the first time in a horse in theUK. The affected gelding had been imported from the Republic of Cyprus and travelled through severalWNVendemic areas in Europe before arriving at the premises in Lincolnshire. Clinical signs included muscle fasciculations, weakness of the hindlimbs and transient lip twitching that quickly progressed to depression and recumbency. West Nile virus specific antibodies were detected by serological tests in the absence of a previous history of vaccination. The horse improved clinically 10 days after the onset of disease and fully recovered in 12 weeks. Follow‐ups at 12 and 20 months post event did not reveal any sequela and the horse was performing adequately at novice level. This article refers to the same horse mentioned by Fookset al.(2014) and it is an extension of the previous published work.
Best Interests of the Special Needs Child: Mandating Consideration of the Child's Mental Health
Authors: Mermelstein Hindi , Rosen Jamie A. , Reinach Wolf Carolyn
Published: January 2016

There has been a considerable increase in the number of separation and divorce cases in family court involving special needs children. However, most states do not consider the mental and physical health needs of the child in determining what is in the best interests of the child. The special needs of the child due to a mental illness or behavioral disorder must be a statutorily required factor when a court makes a custody decision and/or designs a parenting plan under the “best interests of the child” standard.

Practitioner's Key Points:

The existence of a mental illness or behavioral disorder in a child presents unique challenges to the family court in determining custody and designing a parenting plan.

Commonly recommended parenting plans may not be appropriate for a special needs child, especially when that child will require parental involvement beyond age eighteen.

The special needs of the child due to a mental illness or behavioral disorder must be a statutorily required factor when a court makes a custody decision and/or designs a parenting plan under the “best interests of the child” standard.

Family court judges can consult with clinical experts to adequately understand the child's needs and address them in the custody decision and parenting plan.
Inheriting Your Mother's Eyes, Hair, and Drug Addiction: Protecting The Drug‐Exposed Newborn By Criminalizing Pregnant Drug USE
Authors: Gaspari Alexana
Published: January 2016

Despite the absence of statutory criminalization of drug use during pregnancy in the majority of states, states are increasingly recognizing that drug abuse is a massive economic and social problem. Tennessee is the first state to implement a statute that specifically addresses the issue of pregnant drug users by criminalizing those whose use harms their child. Because drug abuse may involve addiction in many cases, the statute provides a defense to those who take reasonable steps to seek help and get clean before the child is born. This Note examines the criminal aspect and impact of drug use during pregnancy and proposes that each state adopt the Tennessee statue, while ensuring pregnant mothers access to drug treatment and assessment through drug courts. Drug use is illegal and drug use during pregnancy should be criminalized as well.

Key Points for the Family Court Community:

The impact of drug abuse during pregnancy causes unhealthy babies, which creates a financial and social burden on the state.

Drug use during pregnancy is associated with many risks including mortality, low birth weight, and Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome.

The goal of incentivizing healthy births can be achieved through a specific statute criminalizing drug use during pregnancy.

The Tennessee statute provides an affirmative defense for mothers who are actively enrolled in an addiction recovery program before the child is born and successfully complete the program. While still approaching addiction as a disease, this methodology will incentivize pregnant drug users to seek help before birthing an unhealthy child.