bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economics of Sustainable Intensification of Aquaculture: Evidence from Shrimp Farms in Vietnam and Thailand
Authors: Engle Carole R. , McNevin Aaron , Racine Phoebe , Boyd Claude E. , Paungkaew Duangchai , Viriyatum Rawee , Tinh Huynh Quoc , Minh Hang Ngo
Published: April 2017

There is growing interest in sustainable intensification of aquaculture production. Yet little economic analysis has been done on farm‐level effects of the economic sustainability of production intensification. Data from 83 shrimp farms (43 in Vietnam and 40 in Thailand) were used to identify (through principal component and cluster analyses) 13 clusters of management practices that reflected various scales of production intensity that ranged from 0–1999 kg/ha/crop to 10,000 kg/ha/crop and above, for both Penaeus monodon and Litopenaeus vannamei in Vietnam and Thailand. The clusters identified reflected sets of management practices that resulted in differing yields despite similarities in stocking densities among some clusters. The enterprise budget analysis developed showed that the more intensively managed clusters outperformed the less intensively managed clusters in economic terms. More intensively managed farm clusters had lower costs per metric ton of shrimp produced and were more profitable. The greater yields of shrimp produced per hectare of land and water resources in more intensively managed shrimp farms spread annual fixed costs across a greater volume of shrimp produced and reduced the cost per metric ton of shrimp. Costs per metric ton of shrimp produced decreased from the lowest to the highest intensity level (from US$10,245 at lowest intensity to US$3484 at highest for P. monodon and from US$24,301 to US$5387 for L. vannamei in Vietnam and from US$8184 at the lowest intensity level to US$3817 at the highest intensity level per metric ton for L. vannamei in Thailand). Costs of pond amendments used in shrimp production were particularly high in Vietnam and largely unwarranted, whereas fixed costs associated with the value of land, production facilities, equipment, and labor were sufficiently high in Thailand so that net returns were negative in the long run. Nevertheless, economic losses in Thailand were less at greater levels of intensification. The study demonstrated a clear value proposition for shrimp farmers to use natural resources (such as land) and other inputs in an efficient manner and supports findings from corresponding research on farm‐level natural resource use efficiency. Additional research that incorporates economic analysis into on‐farm studies of sustainable intensification of aquaculture is needed to provide ongoing guidance related to sustainable management practices for aquaculture.
Business and Financial Cycles in the Eurozone: Synchronization or Decoupling
Authors: Ahmed Jameel , Chaudhry Sajid M. , Straetmans Stefan
Published: April 2017

This paper proposes a novel approach, based on probit framework, toward measuring bilateral synchronization, separately within business cycles and within financial cycles, for 11 eurozone economies. We find strong cross‐country synchronization both within real cycles and within financial cycles. Moreover, financial cycle synchronization dominates business cycle synchronization in the eurozone, especially after the introduction of the single currency. For some peripheral country pairs, we even find some evidence of ‘decoupling’ of business cycles relative to the core countries but majority of marginal business cycle effects do not change much before and after the common currency. The former observation supports the plea for more Europe‐wide macro‐prudential regulation whereas the latter observation gives ammunition to those economists who always stress that the euro zone architecture is an unfinished business and that the conditions for an optimum currency area are not fulfilled.
Unmelted cosmic metal particles in the Indian Ocean
Authors: Shyam Prasad Mokkapati , Rudraswami N. G. , De Araujo Agnelo A. , Khedekar Vijay D.
Published: April 2017

Fe‐Ni metal is a common constituent of most meteorites and is an indicator of the thermal history of the respective meteorites, it is a diagnostic tool to distinguish between groups/subgroups of meteorites. In spite of over a million micrometeorites collected from various domains, reports of pure metallic particles among micrometeorites have been extremely rare. We report here the finding of a variety of cosmic metal particles such as kamacite, plessite, taenite, and Fe‐Ni beads from deep‐sea sediments of the Indian Ocean, a majority of which have entered the Earth unaffected by frictional heating during atmospheric entry. Such particles are known as components of meteorites but have never been found as individual entities. Their compositions suggest precursors from a variety of meteorite groups, thus providing an insight into the metal fluxes on the Earth. Some particles have undergone heating and oxidation to different levels during entry developing features similar to I‐type cosmic spherules, suggesting atmospheric processing of individual kamacites/taenite grains as another hitherto unknown source for the I‐type spherules. The particles have undergone postdepositional aqueous alteration transforming finally into the serpentine mineral cronstedtite. Aqueous alteration products of kamacite reflect the local microenvironment, therefore they have the potential to provide information on the composition of water in the solar nebula, on the parent bodies or on surfaces of planetary bodies. Our observations suggest it would take sustained burial in water for tens of thousands of years under cold conditions for kamacites to alter to cronstedtite.
Microfluidics for investigating vaso‐occlusions in sickle cell disease
Authors: Horton Renita E.
Published: April 2017

SCD stems from amutation in the beta globin gene. Upon deoxygenation, hemoglobin polymerizes and triggers RBC remodeling. This phenomenon is central to SCD pathogenesis as individuals suffering from the disease are plagued by painful vaso‐occlusive crises episodes. These episodes are the result of a combination of processes including inflammation, thrombosis, and blood cell adhesion to the vascular wall which leads to blockages within the vasculature termed vaso‐occlusions. Vaso‐occlusive episodes deprive tissues of oxygen and are a major contributor to SCD‐related complications; unfortunately, the complex mechanisms that contribute to vaso‐occlusions are not well understood. Vaso‐occlusions can occur in post‐capillary venules; hence, the microvasculature is a prime target for SCD therapies. Traditional in vitro systems poorly recapitulate architectural and dynamic flow properties of in vivo systems. However, microfluidic devices can capture features of the native vasculature such as cellular composition, flow, geometry, and ECM presentation. This review, although not comprehensive, highlights microfluidic approaches that aim to improve our current understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms surrounding SCD. Microfluidic platforms can aid in identifying factors that may contribute to disease severity and can serve as suitable test beds for novel treatment strategies which may improve patient outcomes.
Grades of Multisensory Awareness
Authors: O'Callaghan Casey
Published: April 2017

Psychophysics and neuroscience demonstrate that different sensory systems interact and influence each other. Perceiving involves extensive cooperation and coordination among systems associated with sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste. Nonetheless, it remains unclear in what respects conscious perceptual awareness is multisensory. This article distinguishes six differing varieties of multisensory awareness, explicates their consequences, and thereby elucidates the multisensory nature of perception. It argues on these grounds that perceptual awareness need not be exhausted by that which is associated with each of the respective sensory modalities along with whatever accrues thanks to simple co‐consciousness.
‘Philosophy Lost’: Inquiring into the effects of the corporatized university and its implications for graduate nursing education
Authors: Springer Rusla Anne , Clinton Michael Edward
Published: April 2017

Drawing on a comprehensive, pan‐national analysis of the corporatization of Canadian universities, as well as the notions of ‘parrhesiastic’ mentorship and practice, the authors examine the effects of the corporatized university, its implications for graduate nursing education and nursing's relative silence on the subject. With the preponderance of business interests, the increasing dependence of universities on industry funding, cults of efficiency, research intensivity, and the pursuit of profit so prevalent in today's corporatized university, we argue that philosophical presuppositions so crucial to critical teaching, research, and reflection on nursing as a discipline are troublingly losing ground. We lament the erosion and fragmentation of philosophy, politics, and ethics as foundations for graduate education, which are increasingly perceived as less valuable, problematic, and in some cases, even burdensome. The effect of corporatization is the suppression of the critical engagement required of faculty in the everyday workings of institutions. We argue that, when the ideals of intellectual freedom, academic responsibility, duty, and obligation, as supported by philosophical thought, are smothered by the normalizing power of corporatized research agendas, philosophical approaches to inquiry and knowledge development become marginalized as scholars find themselves floundering in the face of a seeming ‘philosophy lost’.
Aridity drove the evolution of extreme embolism resistance and the radiation of conifer genus Callitris
Authors: Larter Maximilian , Pfautsch Sebastian , Domec Jean‐Christophe , Trueba Santiago , Nagalingum Nathalie , Delzon Sylvain
Published: April 2017

Xylem vulnerability to embolism is emerging as a major factor in drought‐induced tree mortality events across the globe. However, we lack understanding of how and to what extent climate has shaped vascular properties or functions. We investigated the evolution of xylem hydraulic function and diversification patterns in Australia's most successful gymnosperm clade, Callitris, the world's most drought‐resistant conifers.

For all 23 species in this group, we measured embolism resistance (P50), xylem specific hydraulic conductivity (Ks), wood density, and tracheary element size from natural populations. We investigated whether hydraulic traits variation linked with climate and the diversification of this clade using a time‐calibrated phylogeny.

Embolism resistance varied widely across the Callitris clade (P50: −3.8 to −18.8 MPa), and was significantly related to water scarcity, as was tracheid diameter. We found no evidence of a safety‐efficiency tradeoff; Ks and wood density were not related to rainfall. Callitris diversification coincides with the onset of aridity in Australia since the early Oligocene.

Our results highlight the evolutionary lability of xylem traits with climate, and the leading role of aridity in the diversification of conifers. The uncoupling of safety from other xylem functions allowed Callitris to evolve extreme embolism resistance and diversify into xeric environments.
Squeezing the Last Drop Out of Your Suppliers: An Empirical Study of Market‐Based Purchasing Policies for Generic Pharmaceuticals
Authors: Bergman Mats A. , Granlund David , Rudholm Niklas
Published: April 2017

We study the effect of the degree of exclusivity for the lowest bidder on the average price of generic pharmaceuticals in the short and long terms. Our results indicate that a 1‐percentage‐point gain in market share of the lowest bidder reduces average costs by 0.2% in the short term and 0.8% in the long term, but also reduces the number of firms by 1%. We find that reducing the number of firms has a strong positive (and hence counteracting) effect on average prices, a 1% reduction raising prices by approximately 1%.
Representative bureaucracy and specialist knowledge in the European Commission
Authors: Christensen Johan , van den Bekerom Petra , van der Voet Joris
Published: April 2017

The article addresses an issue that has received little attention in the literature on representative bureaucracy, namely the relationship between representativeness and specialized expertise in public administration. While representation may strengthen the legitimacy of public bureaucracies, what implications does it have for expert knowledge in these organizations? This issue is examined by looking at the recruitment of civil servants to the European Commission, an international bureaucracy where the question of geographical representation is of fundamental importance. Based on a quantitative analysis of nearly 200 recruitment competitions for the organization from 1958 to 2015, the article finds that competitions related to EU enlargement where nationality was an explicit criterion put significantly less emphasis on specialist qualifications and knowledge than other competitions. This indicates a negative relationship between geographical representation and specialized expertise in recruitment to the European Commission. Implications for broader debates about representative bureaucracy and international public administrations are discussed.
Inflammatory events during food protein‐induced enterocolitis syndrome reactions
Authors: Pecora Valentina , Prencipe Giusi , Valluzzi Rocco , Dahdah Lamia , Insalaco Antonella , Cianferoni Antonella , De Benedetti Fabrizio , Fiocchi Alessandro
Published: April 2017

Background

An increasing number of infants are diagnosed with food protein‐induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES), a non‐IgE‐mediated food allergy. Until now, T‐cell, food‐specific mechanisms have been hypothesized.

Methods

Sixteen children (11M, 5F), affected by FPIES from cow's milk, wheat, fruit, rice, and others, experienced 25 acute episodes managed at our emergency department (ED) and eight FPIES reactions during oral food challenges (OFC). We compared the laboratory data in resting conditions, in the absence of infectious diseases, with data collected during the 25 acute ED episodes (blood samples drawn at 2‐12 hours) and the eight positive OFCs (three samples at 2, 6, and 12 hours). The onset of symptoms was used as a reference time point.

Results

In basal conditions, total IgE, WBC, neutrophil and eosinophil count, CRP, and SGPT were found normal. LDH and SGOT values were high (627.81±97.88 and 45.75±10.26 UI/L, respectively). During ED reactions, LDH and SGOT increased to 794.21±247.28 (P=.028) and 51.08±16.99 UI/L (P=.14) and neutrophils count and CRP to 8.44±3.82×103/μL (P=.0009) and 3.27±5.73 mg/dL (P=.0014), respectively. During positive OFC, LDH and SGOT did not vary significantly; CRP increased from 0.14±0.18 to 2.49±3.65 mg/dL (P=.00189) and neutrophil count from 2.79±1.42 to 7.10±3.98×103/μL (P=.00096).

Conclusions

FPIES reactions are characterized by neutrophilia and by a time‐dependent, significant increase in CRP, indicating that inflammatory mechanisms are in place. This suggests new directions for research on FPIES pathogenesis.
Anatomical description of the sciatic nerve block at the subgluteal region in a neonatal cadaver population
Authors: Acar Adrienne A. , Bösenberg Adrian T , van Schoor Albert‐Neels
Published: April 2017

Introduction

Sciatic nerve blocks provide intraoperative and prolonged postoperative pain management after lower limb surgery (posterior knee, foot, skin graft surgery). Accurate needle placement requires sound anatomical knowledge. Anatomical studies on children are uncommon; most have been performed on adult cadavers. We studied the location of the sciatic nerve at the gluteal level in neonatal cadavers to establish useful anatomical landmarks.

Methods

We identified the sciatic nerve in the gluteal and thigh region of 20 neonatal cadavers. The skin covering the gluteal and thigh region was reflected laterally, and the underlying structures and muscles were identified. We located the sciatic nerve and measured the distance from the nerve to the greater trochanter of the femur and to the tip of the coccyx with a mechanical dial caliper. The total distance between the two landmarks was then recorded.

Results

We combined measurements from both sides to form a sample size n = 40. The sciatic nerve was 14.9 ± 2.4 mm lateral to the tip of the coccyx. The total distance between the greater trochanter and the tip of the coccyx was 27.3 ± 4.0 mm.

Conclusion

Our results provide anatomical evidence that the optimal needle insertion point is approximately halfway between the greater trochanter and the tip of the coccyx—a landmark readily palpable in neonates and infants.
UV‐induced somatic mutations elicit a functional T cell response in the YUMMER1.7 mouse melanoma model
Authors: Wang Jake , Perry Curtis J. , Meeth Katrina , Thakral Durga , Damsky William , Micevic Goran , Kaech Susan , Blenman Kim , Bosenberg Marcus
Published: April 2017

Human melanomas exhibit relatively high somatic mutation burden compared to other malignancies. These somatic mutations may produce neoantigens that are recognized by the immune system, leading to an antitumor response. By irradiating a parental mouse melanoma cell line carrying three driver mutations with UVB and expanding a single‐cell clone, we generated a mutagenized model that exhibits high somatic mutation burden. When inoculated at low cell numbers in immunocompetent C57BL/6J mice, YUMMER1.7 (Yale University Mouse Melanoma Exposed to Radiation) regresses after a brief period of growth. This regression phenotype is dependent on T cells as YUMMER1.7 tumors grow significantly faster in immunodeficient Rag1−/− mice and C57BL/6J mice depleted of CD4 and CD8 T cells. Interestingly, regression can be overcome by injecting higher cell numbers of YUMMER1.7, which results in tumors that grow without effective rejection. Mice that have previously rejected YUMMER1.7 tumors develop immunity against higher doses of YUMMER1.7 tumor challenge. In addition, escaping YUMMER1.7 tumors are sensitive to anti‐CTLA‐4 and anti‐PD‐1 therapy, establishing a new model for the evaluation of immune checkpoint inhibition and antitumor immune responses.
Targeting Photochemical Scalpels or Lancets in the Photodynamic Therapy Field—The Photochemist's Role
Authors: Protti Stefano , Albini Angelo , Viswanathan Radhika , Greer Alexander
Published: April 2017

This review covers photochemical approaches aimed at supplementing surgical instruments with handheld photodynamic therapy (PDT) instruments. PDT is not widely used in hospitals, because of the laser equipment and expertise needed, and because insurance policies often do not cover the procedure. Accordingly, this review focuses on advances in photochemistry, photophysics, nanotechnology and miniaturization techniques that may likely inspire the use of handheld instruments in PDT. A takeaway point is that the advent of photochemical scalpels or lancets that deliver reactive oxygen species (ROS) on site may better equip medical practitioners and allow for eradication of tumors or infections in general. Specifically, the review is divided into several sections: sensitizer types, multiphoton and plasmonic topics, sensitizer delivery, light delivery, dosimetry, fiber optics and handheld implements in PDT.
Novel Osmium‐based Coordination Complexes as Photosensitizers for Panchromatic Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Lazic Savo , Kaspler Pavel , Shi Ge , Monro Susan , Sainuddin Tariq , Forward Sarah , Kasimova Kamola , Hennigar Robie , Mandel Arkady , McFarland Sherri , Lilge Lothar
Published: April 2017

Cancer remains a major global malaise requiring the advent of new, efficient and low‐cost treatments. Photodynamic therapy, which combines a photosensitizer and photons to produce cytotoxic reactive oxygen species, has been established as an effective cancer treatment but has yet to become mainstream. One of the main limitations has been the paucity of photosensitizers that are effective over a wide range of wavelengths, can exert their cytotoxic effects in hypoxia, are easily synthesized and produce few if any side effects. To address these shortfalls, three new osmium‐based photosensitizers (TLD1822, TLD1824 and TLD1829) were synthesized and their photophysical and photobiological attributes determined. These photosensitizers are panchromatic (i.e. black absorbers), activatable from 200 to 900 nm and have strong resistance to photobleaching. In vitro studies show photodynamic therapy efficacy with both red and near‐infrared light in normoxic and hypoxic conditions, which translated to good in vivo efficacy of TLD1829 in a subcutaneous murine colon cancer model.
Fluorescence Sensor with A New ON1–OFF–ON2 Switching Mechanism Using the Excited State Intermolecular Proton Transfer Reaction of An Anthracene‐diurea Compound
Authors: Matsumoto Hisato , Nishimura Yoshinobu , Arai Tatsuo
Published: April 2017

A new photoreaction mechanism of “Three‐state molecular switch” fluorescence sensor based on ON1‐OFF‐ON2 sequence was achieved by anthracene‐diurea compound, which was designed using two phenylurea groups and one anthracene, 9,10BtDSPUA. Photochemical properties of 9,10BtDSPUA and interaction between 9,10BtDSPUA and anion were investigated in detail by absorption, 1H NMR, fluorescence, and fluorescence decay measurements. While the fluorescence of 9,10BtDSPUA in DMSO (ON1) was quenched in the presence of low concentration of acetate anion (OFF), fluorescence enhancement occurred by the addition of high concentration of acetate anion (ON2). This compound forms complex with acetate anion through hydrogen bonding interaction in the ground state resulted in tautomer formation by excited state intermolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) on irradiation. Whereas single coordination of acetate anion to anthracene‐diurea compound may cause fluorescence quenching, full coordination may cause fluorescence enhancement due to suppressing ESIPT. This suppressing ESIPT was occurred by electron‐donating resonance effect between two urea moieties. This study is the first example of ON1‐OFF‐ON2 fluorescence sensor for concentration detection of acetate anion.
Evidence of cross‐stage CD8+ T cell epitopes in malaria pre‐erythrocytic and blood stage infections
Authors: Müller K. , Gibbins M. P. , Matuschewski K. , Hafalla J. C. R.
Published: April 2017

Malaria parasites have a complex, multistage life cycle and there is a widely held view that each stage displays a distinct set of antigens presented to the immune system. Yet, molecular analysis of malaria parasites suggests that many putative antigenic targets are shared amongst the different stages. The specificities of these cross‐stage antigens and the functions of the immune responses they elicit are poorly characterized. It is well‐known that CD8+ T cells play opposing immune functions following Plasmodium berghei (Pb) infection of C57BL/6 mice. Whilst these cells play a crucial role in protective immunity against pre‐erythrocytic stages, they are implicated in the development of severe disease during blood stages. Recently, CD8+ T cell epitopes derived from proteins supposedly specific for either pre‐erythrocytic or blood stages have been described. In this brief report, we have compiled and confirmed data that the majority of the mRNAs and/or proteins from which these epitopes are derived display expression across pre‐erythrocytic and blood stages. Importantly, we provide evidence of cross‐stage immune recognition of the majority of these CD8+ T cell epitopes. Hence, our findings provide a resource to further examine the relevance of antigen‐specific cross‐stage responses during malaria infections.
A model for the irradiance responses of photosynthesis
Authors: Harbinson Jeremy , Yin Xinyou
Published: April 2017

The analysis of the irradiance responses of photosynthetic processes, such as the quantum efficiencies of electron transport by photosystems I and II (PSI and PSII) or the rate of carbon dioxide fixation, is limited by the lack of mechanistically based analytical model for these processes. Starting with a model of P700 redox state, we develop a series of analytical functions which can be used to fit the irradiance responses of the quantum yields for electron transport by PSI and PSII, the irradiance responses of electron transport by PSI and PSII, and even the irradiance response of the fixation rate of carbon dioxide. These functions depend on two or three parameters so they can be fit to typical irradiance response data. We illustrate by example the use of these functions in various applications and discuss further use and development of the basic model described in detail here.
Editor's Introduction
Authors: Balfour Danny L.
Published: April 2017

Related Content: Spicer (PAR May/June 2017)

Related Content: Raadschelders (PAR May/June 2017)

Related Content: Bartels (PAR May/June 2017)

Related Content: Benavides (PAR May/June 2017)
Luteal activity and effect of dietary energy restriction on follicular development in lactating cows
Authors: Comin A , Peric T , Montillo M , Cappa A , Marchi V , Veronesi MC , Prandi A
Published: April 2017

Contents

The aim of this research has been to evaluate the presence of anomalies in the ovarian cycle activity during postpartum and to verify whether 72‐hr dietary fasting during the dominance phase, the phase before ovulation, might modify the ovarian follicle population. The presence of anomalies in ovarian cycle activity has been evaluated in 30 Italian Friesian cows starting from 20 days postpartum until 211 days of lactation. Long oestrus and brief dioestrus or scarce luteal activity have been the main anomalies found through measuring progesterone concentrations in the whey. Until 100 days of lactation, the BCS values of the problematic animals have been significantly lower than those in animals with normal ovarian activity. After 100 days of lactation, the ovarian anomalies continued to appear despite the fact that all the animals have reached comparable BCS values. Starting from the results of this trial, the effect of 72‐hr dietary fasting on dominant follicles has been studied in six cows. Ultrasonography revealed that the diameter of the follicles at 71 days postpartum has been significantly lower than at 181 days. A 72‐hr dietary restriction at 101 and 211 days postpartum did not affect the size of the dominant follicle. However, at 101 days postpartum, half of the animals presented follicular cysts. The effect of fasting differed if the animal has been in early postpartum or 211 days of lactation. Further researches are necessary to understand how different metabolic conditions can modify the follicular population but on the other hand the study shows the utility for farmers and field veterinarians of monitoring the resumption of the ovarian cycle postpartum through the whey progesterone concentrations.
Geochemical Behavior of Rare Earth Elements in Weathered Granitic Rocks in Northern Palawan, Philippines
Authors: Padrones Jenielyn T. , Imai Akira , Takahashi Ryohei
Published: April 2017

Weathered crust of granitic rocks of two geochemically similar plutons that differ in age of magmatism were investigated in the Philippines. These are the Cretaceous Daroctan Granite and the Middle Miocene Kapoas Granitoid located in Palawan Island, a part of the Palawan Continental Block derived from the continental margin of southeastern Eurasia. Both plutons are composed of biotite granodiorite and biotite granite and are geochemically characterized as ilmenite series, high‐K calc‐alkaline, intermediate I‐ and S‐types, and peraluminous.

Light rare earth element (LREE) content of the weathered granitic crusts in the Kapoas Granitoid is higher than that in the Daroctan Granite, and LREE are enriched in the Daroctan Granite compared to the parent granitic rocks. In both plutons, the residual REE‐bearing minerals are mostly monazite. Allanite is only present in the Kapoas Granitoid while the Daroctan Granite contains xenotime. The Kapoas Granitoid pluton shows potential for placer‐type LREE deposit as observed in the elevated LREE content of the stream and beach sediments containing La, Ce, Nd and Sm up to >10,000 ppm. Sequential leaching extraction of REE using eight reagents which selectively dissolved REE with different mode of occurrence (i.e. water soluble, ion‐exchangeable salts, Pb‐displaceable, acid soluble, Mn‐oxide occluded, organically‐bound, amorphous Fe‐oxide occluded, and crystalline Fe‐oxide occluded forms), show that the Daroctan Granite has a potential for ion‐adsorption type REE resource with proportion of extracted REE ranging from 53 to 74 % among ΣREE. Formation of secondary REE‐bearing minerals, such as cerianite formed on the surface of clay minerals, results in enrichment of REE.
Point, Interval and Density Forecasts of Exchange Rates with Time Varying Parameter Models
Authors: Abbate Angela , Marcellino Massimiliano
Published: April 2017

We explore whether modelling parameter time variation improves the point, interval and density forecasts of nine major exchange rates vis-à-vis the US dollar over the period 1976–2015. We find that modelling parameter time variation is needed for an accurate calibration of forecast confidence intervals and is better suited at long horizons and in high volatility periods. The biggest forecast improvements are obtained by modelling time variation in the volatilities of the innovations, rather than in the slope parameters. We do not find evidence that parameter time variation helps to unravel exchange rate predictability by macroeconomic fundamentals. However, an economic evaluation of the various forecast models reveals that controlling for parameter time variation and macroeconomic fundamentals leads to higher portfolios returns, and to higher utility values for investors.
Direct and Indirect Effects of Training Vouchers for the Unemployed
Authors: Huber Martin , Lechner Michael , Strittmatter Anthony
Published: April 2017

The paper evaluates the effects of awarding vouchers for vocational training on the employment outcomes of unemployed voucher recipients in Germany, as well as the potential mechanism through which they operate. This study assesses the direct effects of voucher assignment net of actual redemption, which may be driven by preference shaping and learning about possible human capital investments or simply by the costs of information gathering. Using a formal mediation analysis framework based on sequential conditional independence assumptions and semiparametric matching estimators, our results suggest that the negative short-term and positive long-term employment effects of receiving a voucher are mainly driven by actual training participation. However, the direct effect of just obtaining a voucher is negative over the short run as well. This result points to potential losses in the effectiveness of such training provision systems if individuals decide not to redeem vouchers, as the chances of employment are lower than under non-award over the short run and under redemption over the long run, which makes non-redemption the least attractive option.
Early Holocene transgressive palaeogeography in the Po coastal plain (northern Italy)
Authors: Bruno Luigi , Bohacs Kevin M. , Campo Bruno , Drexler Tina M. , Rossi Veronica , Sammartino Irene , Scarponi Daniele , Hong Wan , Amorosi Alessandro
Published: April 2017

To understand the complex stratigraphic response of a coastal depositional system to rapid eustatic rise and sediment inputs, the evolution of the Adriatic coastline and Po River system, during the post‐glacial (Holocene) transgression, was investigated. The landward migration and evolution of a wave‐dominated estuary was mapped, based on an extensive data set comprising 14 boreholes, 28 core descriptions and 308 piezocone tests, chronologically constrained between 11·5 and 7·0 kyr bp by 137 radiocarbon dates. Palaeogeographic maps reveal temporal differences in retrogradational geometries and mechanisms that likely underpin shoreline retreat. The Po estuary initially developed within a shallowly incised valley and then spread onto the interfluves. Between 11·5 and 9·2 kyr bp the Po fluvial system became avulsive/distributive and wetlands developed in topographically depressed areas. The shoreline retreated at a mean rate of ca 10 m year−1, between 9·2 kyr and 7·7 kyr bp, following a stepped trajectory at the centennial scale. After 7·7 kyr bp, bayhead deltas started to prograde and partially filled the estuary. The overall stratigraphic architecture is interpreted to reflect the sedimentary response of the coastal depositional system to the main pulses of early Holocene eustatic rise. The influence of antecedent topography, partly due to local subsidence, was dominant at the time of initial transgression. Basin morphology influenced sediment dispersal and partitioning. Sediment supplied by the Po River was trapped within the estuary, whereas coastal sand bodies at the estuary mouth were fed by alongshore currents and by reworking of older barriers. High‐resolution age control that ties facies evolution to independently constrained eustasy provides direct data to test models of short‐term coastal retreat under conditions of relative sea‐level rise, and makes this case study a useful analogue for the interpretation of ancient marginal‐marine, retrogradational systems where only stratal geometries are available.
Youth, activism, and social movements
Authors: Earl Jennifer , Maher Thomas V. , Elliott Thomas
Published: April 2017

There has been considerable debate over the extent and role of young people's political participation. Whether considering popular hand‐wringing over concerns about declines in young people's institutional political participation or dismissals of young people's use of online activism, many frame youth engagement through a “youth deficit” model that assumes that adults need to politically socialize young people. However, others argue that young people are politically active and actively involved in their own political socialization, which is evident when examining youth participation in protest, participatory politics, and other forms of noninstitutionalized political participation. Moreover, social movement scholars have long documented the importance of youth to major social movements. In this article, we bring far flung literatures about youth activism together to review work on campus activism; young people's political socialization, their involvement in social movement organizations, their choice of tactics; and the context in which youth activism takes place. This context includes the growth of movement societies, the rise of fan activism, and pervasive Internet use. We argue that social movement scholars have already created important concepts (e.g., biographical availability) and questions (e.g., biographical consequences of activism) from studying young people and urge additional future research.
Identification of a novel HLA‐A allele, HLA‐A*02:505, by sequence‐based typing in a patient with tuberculosis
Authors: Li W.‐X. , Li G. , Yao L. , Shen G. , Yang R. , Qiu F.‐W. , Ma Y.
Published: April 2017

The novel allele HLA‐A*02:505 was identified in a tuberculosis patient by human leukocyte antigen sequence‐based typing.
Rice No Pollen 1 (NP1) is required for anther cuticle formation and pollen exine patterning
Authors: Liu Ze , Lin Sen , Shi Jianxin , Yu Jing , Zhu Lu , Yang Xiujuan , Zhang Dabing , Liang Wanqi
Published: April 2017

Angiosperm male reproductive organs (anthers and pollen grains) have complex and interesting morphological features, but mechanisms that underlie their patterning are poorly understood. Here we report the isolation and characterization of a male sterile mutant of No Pollen 1 (NP1) in rice (Oryza sativa). The np1‐4 mutant exhibited smaller anthers with a smooth cuticle surface, abnormal Ubisch bodies, and aborted pollen grains covered with irregular exine. Wild‐type exine has two continuous layers; but np1‐4 exine showed a discontinuous structure with large granules of varying size. Chemical analysis revealed reduction in most of the cutin monomers in np1‐4 anthers, and less cuticular wax. Map‐based cloning suggested that NP1 encodes a putative glucose‐methanol‐choline oxidoreductase; and expression analyses found NP1 preferentially expressed in the tapetal layer from stage 8 to stage 10 of anther development. Additionally, the expression of several genes involved in biosynthesis and in the transport of lipid monomers of sporopollenin and cutin was decreased in np1‐4 mutant anthers. Taken together, these observations suggest that NP1 is required for anther cuticle formation, and for patterning of Ubisch bodies and the exine. We propose that products of NP1 are likely important metabolites in the development of Ubisch bodies and pollen exine, necessary for polymerization, assembly, or both.
Persistent symptomatic parvovirus B19 infection with severe thrombocytopenia transmitted by red blood cell transfusion containing low parvovirus B19 DNA levels
Authors: Nagaharu Keiki , Sugimoto Yuka , Hoshi Yuji , Yamaguchi Takanori , Ito Ryugo , Matsubayashi Keiji , Kawakami Keiki , Ohishi Kohshi
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

Transfusion‐mediated human parvovirus B19 (PVB19) infection is rare but often causes severe hematologic disorders. In Japan, routine blood donor screening for PVB19 antigen (detection sensitivity, 106.4 IU/mL) using a chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA) was introduced in 2008. However, there is no consensus on the minimal infectious dose of PVB19 permissible for red blood cells (RBCs).

CASE REPORT

A 64‐year‐old man, who had received hemodialysis for diabetic nephropathy for 5 years, underwent an RBC transfusion for anemia caused by hemorrhagic enterocolitis. He developed persistent high fever and progressive thrombocytopenia. He was diagnosed with PVB19 infection when a marrow examination showed giant erythroblasts, and his serum was positive for PVB19 DNA. His serum was negative for PVB19 immunoglobulin (Ig)M and IgG before transfusion, but positive for both after transfusion. This PVB19 infection was deemed to be transmitted by the RBC transfusion because low levels of PVB19 DNA (1.10 × 104 IU/mL) were detected in one of the blood donors. A DNA homology test of PVB19 showed complete genomic identity between the virus in the donor and our patient.

CONCLUSION

We report a patient who developed persistent PVB19 infection from an RBC transfusion containing low levels of PVB19. This is the second case of transfusion‐mediated PVB19 infection since the introduction of CLEIA in 2008. Transmission may occur in immunocompromised patients lacking PVB19‐neutralizing antibodies. The report of further such cases will allow the establishment of minimal threshold values and more effective screening tests for PBV19 transmission through RBC products.
Successful treatment of pemphigus foliaceus in a Berrichon du Cher ram with methylprednisolone acetate
Authors: Lambacher Bianca , Schoiswohl Julia , Brunthaler Rene , Wittek Thomas , Krametter‐Frötscher Reinhild
Published: April 2017

Background

Pemphigus foliaceus is a severe, autoimmune blistering skin disease, which is described in humans and some animal species. In small ruminants pemphigus foliaceus has rarely been described and, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, little information is available about successful treatment in sheep.

Aim

This case report describes a Berrichon du Cher ram with the presumed diagnosis of pemphigus foliaceus.

Methods

The ram was treated with methylprednisolone acetate 40 mg at a dosage of 2.5 mg/kg in one subcuticular injection at four week intervals over a one year period, with regular observation of clinical parameters. Four months after treatment was initiated the haematological parameters showed lymphopenia and leukopenia; some enzyme activities were substantially increased.

Results

The ram's dermatological condition improved to the point of complete healing of the affected skin. The ram was discharged in good condition. No adverse effects, except an elevation of some enzymes associated with liver function, were observed. At postmortem examination moderate fatty liver syndrome was the only abnormality found.

Conclusions and clinical importance

This case report demonstrated that long term therapy with methylprednisolone acetate in a sheep with pemphigus foliaceus did not have a negative effect on clinical parameters. Nevertheless, due to the extended statutory withdrawal period resulting from the regular administration of glucocorticoids, such a therapeutic option must be critically assessed in food producing animals.
Early γ‐irradiation and subsequent storage of red cells in SAG‐M additive solution potentiate energy imbalance, microvesiculation and susceptibility to stress‐induced apoptotic cell death
Authors: Qadri S. M. , Chen D. , Schubert P. , Devine D. V. , Sheffield W. P.
Published: April 2017

γ‐Irradiation of red blood cell (RBC) concentrates prevents transfusion‐associated graft‐versus‐host disease but may diminish RBC quality. Herein, we show that early γ‐irradiation (25 Gy) of RBC units and their subsequent storage in SAG‐M additive solution altered membrane microvesiculation, supernatant haemoglobin and cytosolic ATP. γ‐Irradiation did not influence phosphatidylserine externalization, a marker of erythrocyte apoptotic cell death (eryptosis), in RBC stored for 42 days. However, shorter periods (4–21 days) of storage accentuated eryptosis in γ‐irradiated RBC versus untreated RBCs following energy depletion, suggesting that γ‐irradiated RBC is primed for stress‐induced eryptosis during storage.
Efficiency of riboflavin and ultraviolet light treatment against high levels of biofilm‐derived Staphylococcus epidermidis in buffy coat platelet concentrates
Authors: Taha M. , Culibrk B. , Kalab M. , Schubert P. , Yi Q.‐L. , Goodrich R. , Ramirez‐Arcos S.
Published: April 2017

Background and Objectives

Staphylococcus epidermidis forms surface‐attached aggregates (biofilms) in platelet concentrates (PCs), which are linked to missed detection during PC screening. This study was aimed at evaluating the efficacy of riboflavin‐UV treatment to inactivate S. epidermidis biofilms in buffy coat (BC) PCs.

Materials and Methods

Biofilm and non‐biofilm cells from S. epidermidis ST‐10002 and S. epidermidis AZ‐66 were individually inoculated into whole blood (WB) units (~106 colony‐forming units (CFU)/ml) (N = 4–5). One spiked and three unspiked WB units were processed to produce a BC‐PC pool. Riboflavin was added to the pool which was then split into two bags: one for UV treatment and the second was untreated. Bacterial counts were determined before and after treatment. In vitro PC quality was assessed by flow cytometry and dynamic light scattering.

Results

Bacterial counts were reduced during BC‐PC production from ~106 CFU/ml in WB to 103–104 CFU/ml in PCs (P < 0·0001). Riboflavin‐UV treatment resulted in significantly higher reduction of S. epidermidis AZ‐66 than strain ST‐10002 (≥3·5 log reduction and 2·6–2·8 log reduction, respectively, P < 0·0001). Remaining bacteria post‐treatment were able to proliferate in PCs. No differences in S. epidermidis inactivation were observed in PCs produced from WB inoculated with biofilm or non‐biofilm cells (P > 0·05). Platelet activation was enhanced in PCs produced with WB inoculated with biofilms compared to non‐biofilm cells (P < 0·05).

Conclusion

Riboflavin‐UV treatment was similarly efficacious in PCs produced from WB inoculated with S. epidermidis biofilm or non‐biofilm cells. Levels of biofilm‐derived S. epidermidis ≥103 CFU/ml were not completely inactivated; however, further testing is necessary with lower (real‐life) bacterial levels.
Impaired collagen synthesis in the rectum may be a molecular target in anastomotic leakage prophylaxis
Authors: Buch Anastasia S. , Schjerling Peter , Kjaer Marie , Jorgensen Lars Nannestad , Krarup Peter‐Martin , Ågren Magnus S.
Published: April 2017

The underlying molecular mechanisms for anastomotic leakage (AL) after colorectal surgery are unknown and there are no therapeutics for AL prevention. Our aim was to correlate endogenous matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, collagen concentration, and collagen/MMP/cytokine mRNA levels with anatomic location in human colorectal tissue. We enrolled 22 patients in this prospective study: 7 underwent elective laparoscopic sigmoid resection and 15 underwent low anterior resection for colorectal cancer. Full‐thickness intestinal tissue rings from anastomoses constructed with a circular stapler were used for the determination of the MMP activity, tissue collagen concentration and mRNA levels. COL1A1 (p = 0.017) and COL3A1 (p = 0.0013) mRNA levels were lower in rectal tissue than in colonic samples. Neither MMP activities nor collagen concentrations differed significantly between the two anatomic locations. By elucidating the factors responsible for the decreased collagen production we may identify specific molecular targets in AL prophylaxis.
A Non-linear Estimation of the Capital Asset Pricing Model: The Case of Japanese Automobile Industry Firms
Authors: Tsuji Chikashi
Published: April 2017

This paper quantitatively examines a non-linear capital asset pricing model (CAPM) by using monthly stock returns of major automobile industry firms in Japan. Applying the maximum likelihood method, we derive the following interesting findings. (1) First, in the case where the distribution of stock returns has a fat-tail, our non-linear CAPM is highly effective. Because the parameters of our non-linear CAPM well capture fat-tailed return distributions, the non-linear model estimation derives reliable estimates of beta values. (2) Second, in the case where stock returns are normally distributed, our non-linear CAPM is also effective. Since the parameters of our non-linear CAPM also well capture normally distributed returns by adjusting its degrees of freedom parameter value, the non-linear model estimation similarly derives reliable beta estimates as those derived from the standard linear CAPM. (3) Finally, we further conduct the Wald tests based on the estimators from the standard CAPM and our non-linear CAPM, and we suggest that in the case where the distribution of stock returns has a fat-tail, the Wald test based on the estimators from our non-linear CAPM shall be more reliable than the Wald test based on the estimators from the standard linear CAPM.
L-space intervals for graph manifolds and cables
Authors: Rasmussen Sarah Dean
Published: April 2017

We present a graph manifold analog of the Jankins–Neumann classification of Seifert fibered spaces over$S^{2}$admitting taut foliations, providing a finite recursive formula to compute the L-space Dehn-filling interval for any graph manifold with torus boundary. As an application of a generalization of this result to Floer simple manifolds, we compute the L-space interval for any cable of a Floer simple knot complement in a closed three-manifold in terms of the original L-space interval, recovering a result of Hedden and Hom as a special case.