bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Baltic Sea scale inventory of benthic faunal communities
Authors: Gogina Mayya , Nygård Henrik , Blomqvist Mats , Daunys Darius , Josefson Alf B. , Kotta Jonne , Maximov Alexey , Warzocha Jan , Yermakov Vadim , Gräwe Ulf , Zettler Michael L.
Published: January 2016

This study provides an inventory of the recent benthic macrofaunal communities in the entire Baltic Sea. The analyses of soft-bottom benthic invertebrate community data based on over 7000 locations in the Baltic Sea suggested the existence of 10 major communities based on species abundances and 17 communities based on species biomasses, respectively. The low-saline northern Baltic, characterized by silty sediments, is dominated by Monoporeia affinis, Marenzelleria spp., and Macoma balthica. Hydrobiidae, Pygospio elegans, and Cerastoderma glaucum dominate the community in sandy habitats off the Estonian west coast and in the southeastern and southern Baltic Sea. Deep parts of the Gulf of Finland and central Baltic Sea often experience hypoxia, and when oxygen levels in these regions recover, Bylgides sarsi was the first species to colonize. The southwestern Baltic Sea, with high salinity, has higher macrofaunal diversity compared with the northern parts. To spatially interpolate the distribution of the major communities, we used the Random Forest method. Substrate data, bathymetric maps, and modelled hydrographical fields were used as predictors. Model predictions were in good agreement with observations, quantified by Cohen's κ of 0.90 for the abundance and 0.89 in the wet weight-based model. Misclassifications were mainly associated with uncommon classes in regions with high spatial variability. Our analysis provides a detailed baseline map of the distribution of benthic communities in the Baltic Sea to be used both in science and management.
Establishing an Ambulatory Medicine Quality and Safety Oversight Structure: Leveraging the Fractal Model
Authors: Kravet Steven J. , Bailey Jennifer , Demski Renee , Pronovost Peter
Published: January 2016

Problem

Academic health systems face challenges in the governance and oversight of quality and safety efforts across their organizations. Ambulatory practices, which are growing in number, size, and complexity, face particular challenges in these areas.

Approach

In February 2014, leaders at Johns Hopkins Medicine (JHM) implemented a governance, oversight, and accountability structure for quality and safety efforts across JHM ambulatory practices. This model was based on the fractal approach, which balances independence and interdependence and provides horizontal and vertical support. It set expectations of accountability at all levels from the Board of Trustees to frontline staff and featured a cascading structure that reached all units and ambulatory practices. This model leveraged an Ambulatory Quality Council led by a physician and nurse dyad to provide the infrastructure to share best practices, continuously improve, and define accountable local leaders.

Outcomes

This model was incorporated into the quality and safety infrastructure across JHM. Improved outcomes in the domains of patient safety/risk reduction, externally reported quality measures, patient care/experience, and value have been demonstrated. An additional benefit was an improvement in Medicaid value-based purchasing metrics, which are linked to several million dollars of revenue.

Next Steps

As this model matures, it will serve as a mechanism to align quality standards and programs across regional, national, and international partners and to provide a clear quality structure as new practices join the health system. Future efforts will link this model to JHM’s academic mission, enhancing education to address Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education core competencies.
Versatility of an Extended Posterior Approach for the Treatment of Acetabular Fractures With Reference to the Superior Gluteal Neurovascular Bundle
Authors: Studer Patrick , Kosuge Dennis , Rickman Mark , Solomon Lucian B.
Published: January 2016

The superior gluteal neurovascular bundle is at risk of injury in certain types of acetabular fractures and the associated surgery. This article describes the versatility of an extended posterior approach, previously described for complex revision total hip replacement (the Adelaide approach) and for the treatment of acetabular fractures that allows a wide exposure of the ilium through identification, protection, and mobilization of the superior gluteal neurovascular bundle.
Efficacy and Safety of Zoledronic Acid for Treatment of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Wang Chao
Published: January 2016

We conducted a meta-analysis based on eligible studies to assess the efficacy and safety of zoledronic acid treatment for postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase were searched for eligible studies that assessed the efficacy of zoledronic acid in the prevention of fractures among postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. The primary outcomes were new vertebral fracture, nonvertebral fracture, and hip fracture. Secondary outcomes were bone mineral density (BMD) and safety outcomes. A fixed-effect or random-effect model was used to pool the estimates according to the heterogeneity among the included studies. Eight randomized controlled trials, involving 13,335 patients, were included in this meta-analysis. Pooled results showed that treatment with zoledronic acid significantly reduced the incidences of nonvertebral fractures, vertebral fractures, and hip fractures, as compared with placebo. Zoledronic acid was also associated with significant improvement in BMD at lumbar spine, total hip, femoral neck, and trochanter. However, the incidence of any adverse events was higher in the zoledronic acid group than that in the control group, and serious adverse events were comparable between the 2 groups. This meta-analysis indicated that zoledronic acid could significantly reduce the fracture risk and increase BMD in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. Furthermore, it would not result in serious adverse events. Zoledronic acid could be used as an effective and well-tolerated treatment for postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.
ESPGHAN Committee on Nutrition Position Paper. Intravenous Lipid Emulsions and Risk of Hepatotoxicity in Infants and Children
Authors: Hojsak Iva , Colomb Virginie , Braegger Christian , Bronsky Jiri , Campoy Cristina , Domellöf Magnus , Embleton Nicholas , Fidler Mis Nataša , Hulst Jessie M. , Indrio Flavia , Lapillonne Alexandre , Mihatsch Walter , Molgaard Christian , van Goudoever Johannes , Fewtrell Mary ,   ESPGHAN Committee on Nutrition
Published: January 2016

The aim of the present article was to perform a systematic review with meta‐analysis of available scientific evidence regarding the role of different intravenous lipid emulsions (ILE) in the pathogenesis of cholestasis and parenteral nutrition–associated liver disease. A systematic review of the literature (up to March 2015) identified 23 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Of these, 17 were performed in preterm infants or critically ill neonates with a short duration of intervention, 2 in older children with short‐term use (following surgery or bone marrow transplantation), 1 in neonates with long‐term use, and 3 in infants and children receiving long‐term parenteral nutrition (PN). Meta‐analysis showed no differences in the rate of cholestasis or bilirubin levels associated with short‐term use of different ILEs. Because of high heterogeneity of the long‐term studies no meta‐analysis could be performed. Available studies found that the use of multicomponent fish oil (FO)‐containing ILE compared with pure soya bean oil (SO), ILE‐reduced liver enzymes, and bilirubin levels in noncholestatic children on long‐term PN and one other RCT found that FO‐based ILE‐reversed cholestasis in a proportion of patients. The ESPGHAN Committee on Nutrition concludes that there is no evidence of a difference in rates of cholestasis or bilirubin levels between different ILE for short‐term use in neonates. The use of multicomponent FO‐containing ILE may contribute to a decrease in total bilirubin levels in children with IF on prolonged PN. Well‐designed RCTs are, however, lacking and long‐term effects have not been determined.
Intact Regulatory T‐Cell Function but Defective Generation of IL–17A‐Producing CD4+ T Cells in XIAP Deficiency
Authors: Gurram Bhaskar , Hammelev Erin , Syverson Grant , Haribhai Dipica , Yan Key , Simpson Pippa , Salzman Nita , Verbsky James W.
Published: January 2016

Objective:

X‐linked inhibitor of apoptosis (xIAP) deficiency is a primary immune deficiency disorder associated with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. About 17% of xIAP‐deficient patients present with very early onset severe colitis with high mortality. We hypothesized that xIAP deficiency leads to defective generation and/or survival of T regulatory cells (Treg) through its involvement in transforming growth factor‐β signaling.

Methods and Results:

We used a T‐cell transfer model of chronic colitis and observed a mild increase in colitis severity induced by naïve CD4+ T cells from xIAP0/− mice compared with colitis induced by naïve CD4+ T cells from WT mice. We did not observe any significant difference in the induction of Treg cells in these studies. We next tested whether xIAP is required for Treg cell function by co‐transferring xIAP−/0 or WT Treg cells with naïve WT CD4 cells in this model. We demonstrate that XIAP‐deficient Treg cells were able to prevent disease similarly to WT Treg cells. In these experiments we, however, found a significantly decreased percentage of IL–17A‐producing CD4+ T cells in mice receiving Tregs from xIAP0/− mice.

Conclusions:

xIAP appears dispensable for the generation of induced Treg cells as well as function of natural Treg cells. There appeared to be a role of xIAP in generation of IL–17‐producing cells from either naïve CD4+ T cells or Treg cells. Further research is needed to explore the role of xIAP in generation of IL–17‐producing cells.
Clinical Characteristics and Prognosis in Children and Adolescents With Autoimmune Hepatitis and Overlap Syndrome
Authors: Rodrigues Adriana T. , Liu Priscila M.F. , Fagundes Eleonora D.T. , Queiroz Thaís C.N. , de Souza Haueisen Barbosa Pamela , Silva Soraya L.C. , Simões e Silva Ana C. , Miranda Débora M. , Ferreira Alexandre R. , Alberti Luiz R.
Published: January 2016

Objectives:

This is a cohort study of 134 children and adolescents with a known diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). During follow‐up, some of them developed autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis (ASC). This study describes the characteristics of the patients upon diagnosis, and their response to treatment and any complications, and compares the patients who developed ASC during follow‐up (ASC group) with those who did not (AIH group).

Methods:

A total of 73.1% of the patients were girls with a median age upon diagnosis of 10.41 (7.41–12.53) years.

Results:

Of 134 patients, 28 (20.9%) developed cholestatic manifestations, with features of ASC. A few differences were observed between the AIH and ASC groups when they were analyzed by χ2 test, such as the smaller predominance of girls in ASC group (P = 0.04), and more common asymptomatic presentation in the ASC group (P = 0.01). Cirrhosis was observed in 68% of biopsies, with no significant difference between groups (P = 0.43). Of 16 deaths, 15 were in the AIH group and 1 in the ASC group (P = 0.22). Of 11 transplants, 10 were in the AIH group and one in the ASC group (P = 0.53). The presence of cirrhosis at baseline was associated with a smaller survival probability (P = 0.015). The survival rate by Kaplan‐Meier method was 94% at 5 years and 80% at 10 years, and was similar in both the groups (P = 0.08).

Conclusions:

No statistically significant difference was observed between the groups in relation to prognosis and response to treatment.
From Expert Clinician to Nurse Educator
Authors: Hinderer Katherine A. , Jarosinski Judith M. , Seldomridge Lisa A. , Reid Tina P.
Published: January 2016

The Eastern Shore Faculty Academy and Mentorship Initiative, a collaborative program among 3 nursing programs in rural Maryland, was developed to facilitate the transition of expert clinicians from diverse backgrounds in clinical specialty areas with critical shortages to new roles as part-time clinical faculty. Initial outcomes include 32 Academy graduates, with 37.5% representing diverse backgrounds and 37.5% in needed clinical specialties. This initiative represents an innovative approach to meeting the challenges of the nursing faculty shortage through collaborative efforts and creative solutions.
Atypical Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy: 18 Year Interval Between Eyes
Authors: Ohden Kaitlyn L. , Tang Peter H. , Lilley Chrystia C. , Lee Michael S.
Published: January 2016

A 5-year-old boy developed profound loss of vision in his right eye and was found to have a 11778 mitochondrial point mutation consistent with Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON). He maintained 20/20 vision in the left eye for 18 years until age 23, when he experienced loss of vision in that eye. This 18 year interval between eye involvement in LHON is the longest reported to date and reinforces the variability in presentation and progression seen in this disease.
Nuclear and mitochondrial phylogeny ofRossella(Hexactinellida: Lyssacinosida, Rossellidae): a species and a species flock in the Southern Ocean
Authors: Vargas Sergio , Dohrmann Martin , Göecke Christian , Janussen Dorte , Wöerheide Gert
Published: January 2016

Hexactinellida (glass sponges) are abundant and important components of Antarctic benthic communities. However, the relationships and systematics within the common genusRossellaCarter, 1872 (Lyssacinosida: Rossellidae) are unclear and in need of revision. The species content of this genus has changed dramatically over the years depending on the criteria used by the taxonomic authority consulted.Rossellawas formerly regarded as a putatively monophyletic group distributed in the Southern Ocean and the North Atlantic. However, molecular phylogenetic analyses have shown thatRossellais restricted to the Southern Ocean, where it shows a circum-Antarctic and subantarctic distribution. Herein, we provide a molecular phylogenetic analysis of the genusRossella, based on mitochondrial (16S rDNA and COI) and nuclear (28S rDNA) markers. We corroborate the monophyly ofRossellaand provide evidence supporting the existence of one species, namelyRossella antarcticaCarter, 1872 and a species flock including specimens determined asRossella racovitzaeTopsent, 1901,Rossella nudaTopsent, 1901,Rossella fibulataSchulze & Kirkpatrick, 1910, andRossella levis(Kirkpatrick, 1907).
A Genetically Encoded Reporter for Diffusion Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Mukherjee Arnab , Wu Di , Davis Hunter C. , Shapiro Mikhail G.
Published: January 2016

The ability to monitor gene expression in intact, optically opaque animals is important for a multitude of applications including longitudinal imaging of transgene expression and long term tracking of cell based therapeutics. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could enable such monitoring with high spatial and temporal resolution. However, existing MRI reporter genes, based primarily on metal-binding proteins or chemical exchange saturation transfer probes, are limited by their reliance on metal ions or relatively low sensitivity. In this work, we introduce a new class of genetically encoded reporters for MRI that work by altering water diffusivity. We show that overexpression of the human water channel aquaporin 1 (AQP1) produces robust contrast in diffusion weighted MRI by increasing effective water diffusivity in tissues by over 100% without affecting cell viability or morphology. Low levels of AQP1 expression (˜1 μM), or mixed populations comprising as few as 10% AQP1-expressing cells, produce sufficient contrast to be observed by MRI. We demonstrate the utility of AQP1in vivoby imaging gene expression in intracranial tumor xenografts. Overall, our results establish AQP1 as a new, metal-free, nontoxic and sensitive genetically encoded reporter for diffusion weighted MRI.
Simultaneous evolution of multiple dispersal components and kernel
Authors: Tung Sudipta , Mishra Abhishek , Shreenidhi P.M. , Aamir Sadiq Mohammed , Joshi Sripad , Shree Sruti V.R. , Dey Sutirth
Published: January 2016

Global climate is changing rapidly and is accompanied by large-scale fragmentation and destruction of habitats. Since dispersal is the first line of defense for mobile organisms to cope with such adversities in their environment, it is important to understand the causes and consequences of evolution of dispersal. Although dispersal is a complex phenomenon involving multiple dispersal-traits like propensity (tendency to leave the natal patch) and ability (to travel long distances), the relationship between these traits is not always straight-forward, it is not clear whether these traits can evolve simultaneously or not, and how their interactions affect the overall dispersal profile. To investigate these issues, we subjected four large (N∼2500) outbred populations ofDrosophila melanogasterto artificial selection for increased dispersal, in a setup that mimicked increasing habitat fragmentation over 33 generations. The propensity and ability of the selected populations were significantly greater than the non-selected controls and the difference persisted even in the absence of proximate drivers for dispersal. The dispersal kernel evolved to have significantly greater standard deviation and reduced values of skew and kurtosis, which ultimately translated into the evolution of a greater frequency of long-distance dispersers (LDDs). We also found that although sex-biased dispersal exists inDrosophila melanogaster, its expression can vary depending on which dispersal component is being measured and the environmental condition under which dispersal takes place. Interestingly though, there was no difference between the two sexes in terms of dispersal evolution. We discuss possible reasons for why some of our results do not agree with previous laboratory and field studies. The rapid evolution of multiple components of dispersal and the kernel, expressed even in the absence of stress, indicates that dispersal evolution cannot be ignored while investigating eco-evolutionary phenomena like speed of range expansion, disease spread, evolution of invasive species and destabilization of metapopulation dynamics.

Data Accessibility

Data will be deposited to dryad if accepted.
The view of the native gauges of blood pressure – focus on atrium (hydrodynamics and rheology)
Authors: Kamnev Yuri
Published: January 2016

The precision of the inlet parameters depends on mechanism of response. Reflexes are satisfied with relative higher or lower but if the inlet information is presented by different parameters and the response is calculated according to some equation precision must reach the degree which does not slur over the results of calculation. At recent work the equation for controlling of circulation was suggested where the main inlet parameters are the arterial diastolic and vinous pressures and it becomes pertinent to analyze how organism can perceive these pressures with hydrodynamic accuracy. As far as the velocity pressure component of total pressure can not be detected by wall receptor of the rectilinear section of artery it was noticed that baroreceptors are located at the outer radius of the bend of central arteries and that is justified due to specific distribution of pressure. This phenomenon can be interpreted as a correction of measuring of static pressure with regard for velocity pressure component. Velocity pressure component of venous pressure is comparable with the one of arterial pressure but static components of venous and arterial pressures are incomparable and it is the fact that cannot be ignored when choosing the gauge. The possible method of measuring of pressure is based on observation that pressure-volume vector of the ventricular cycle is similar to a-loop vector of atrial cycle. Ventricular filling vector and x-trough vector show the behavior of viscous material but v-loop inserted into a-loop demonstrates typical viscoelasticity with creep. If viscous deformation of atrium at early relaxation possesses standard duration being stopped by transformation of viscous deformation into viscoelastic deformation the venous pressure can be measured in accordance with the value of viscous deformation. Measuring of pressure by viscous method implemented by atrium has the advantage comparing to measuring by baroreceptor with elastic sensor. Early relaxation of atrium which reveals coefficient of viscosity corresponds to ventricular relaxation and its coefficient of viscosity but the latter is liable to different biochemical shifts. Such shifts influences the atrial coefficient of viscosity either and the values of venous pressure measured by viscous method will be more accurate for calculations because coefficient of viscosity participates in the equation being not estimated in organism.
IRNdb: The database of immunologically relevant non-coding RNAs
Authors: Denisenko Elena , Ho Daniel , Tamgue Ousman , Ozturk Mumin , Suzuki Harukazu , Brombacher Frank , Guler Reto , Schmeier Sebastian
Published: January 2016

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and other functional non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have emerged as pivotal regulators involved in multiple biological processes. Recently, ncRNA control of gene expression has been identified as a critical regulatory mechanism in the immune system. Despite the great efforts made to discover and characterize ncRNAs, the functional role for most remains unknown. To facilitate discoveries in ncRNA regulation of immune system-related processes we developed the database of immunologically relevant ncRNAs and target genes (IRNdb). We integrated mouse data on predicted and experimentally supported ncRNA-target interactions, ncRNA and gene annotations, biological pathways and processes, and experimental data in a uniform format with a user-friendly web interface. The current version of IRNdb documents 12,930 experimentally supported miRNA-target interactions between 724 miRNAs and 2,427 immune-related murine targets. In addition, we recorded 22,453 lncRNA-immune target and 377 PIWI-interacting RNA-immune target interactions. IRNdb is a comprehensive searchable data repository which will be of help in studying the role of ncRNAs in the immune system.

Database URL:http://irndb.org
Seqping: Gene Prediction Pipeline for Plant Genomes using Self-Trained Gene Models and Transcriptomic Data
Authors: Chan Kuang-Lim , Rosli Rozana , Tatarinova Tatiana , Hogan Michael , Firdaus-Raih Mohd , Low Eng-Ti Leslie
Published: January 2016

Although various software are available for gene prediction, none of the currently available gene-finders have a universal Hidden Markov Models (HMM) that can perform gene prediction for all organisms equally well in an automatic fashion. Here, we report an automated pipeline that performs gene prediction using selftrained HMM models and transcriptomic data. The program processes the genome and transcriptome sequences of a target species through GlimmerHMM, SNAP, and AUGUSTUS training pipeline that ends with the program MAKER2 combining the predictions from the three models in association with the transcriptomic evidence. The pipeline generates species-specific HMMs and is able to predict genes that are not biased to other model organisms. Our evaluation of the program revealed that it performed better than the use of the closest related HMM from a standalone program.

Availability and Implementation

Distributed under the GNU license with free download athttp://sourceforge.net/projects/seqpingandhttp://genomsawit.mpob.gov.my.

Contact

chankl@mpob.gov.my

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Small-angle scattering behavior of thread-like and film-like systems
Authors: Ciccariello Salvino , Riello Pietro , Benedetti Alvise
Published: January 2016

Film-like and thread-like systems are, respectively, defined by the property that one of the constituting homogenous phases has a constant thickness (δ) or a constant normal cross section (of largest chord δ). The stick probability function of this phase, in the limit δ → 0, naturally leads to the definition of the correlation function (CF) of a surface or of a curve. This CF closely approximates the generating stick probability function in the range of distances larger than δ. The surface and the curve CFs, respectively, behave as 1/rand as 1/r2asrapproaches zero. This result implies that the relevant small-angle scattering intensities behave as {\cal P}_{{\cal S}}/q^2 or as {\cal P}_{{\cal C}}/q in the intermediate range of the scattering vector magnitude (q) and as {\cal P}/q^4 in the outermostqrange. Similarly to {\cal P}, pre-factors {\cal P}_{{\cal S}} and {\cal P}_{{\cal C}} simply depend on some structural parameters. Depending on the scale resolution it may happen that a given sample looks thread like at large scale, film like at small scale and particulate at a finer scale. An explicit example is reported. As a practical illustration of the above results, the surface and the curve CFs of some simple geometrical shapes have been explicitly evaluated. In particular, the CF of the right circular cylinder is evaluated. Its limits, as the height or the diameter the cylinder approaches zero, are shown to coincide with the CFs of a circle and of a linear segment, respectively.
A program for refinement of lattice parameters and strain determination using Kossel diffraction patterns
Authors: Morawiec A.
Published: January 2016

The Kossel diffraction technique is well suited for investigating crystal lattices. Progress in digital recording of images opens the opportunity for simplification and improvement of the examination of Kossel patterns. Such patterns can be processed immediately after recording if appropriate computer programs are available. To provide such a tool, a new Windows-based software for computer-assisted analysis of Kossel patterns has been developed. With its easy-to-operate user interface, the program is intended to facilitate refinement of lattice parameters and determination of elastic strains. The refinement is based on matching experimental and geometrically simulated patterns, whereas the strain is obtained by matching Kossel line profiles in similar experimental patterns. The software is capable of simultaneous handling of multiple patterns.
Three-dimensional propagation in near-field tomographic X-ray phase retrieval
Authors: Ruhlandt Aike , Salditt Tim
Published: January 2016

This paper presents an extension of phase retrieval algorithms for near-field X-ray (propagation) imaging to three dimensions, enhancing the quality of the reconstruction by exploiting previously unused three-dimensional consistency constraints. The approach is based on a novel three-dimensional propagator and is derived for the case of optically weak objects. It can be easily implemented in current phase retrieval architectures, is computationally efficient and reduces the need for restrictive prior assumptions, resulting in superior reconstruction quality.
Bis[μ-2-(phenylsulfanyl)anilido-κ2N:N]bis[bis(tetrahydrofuran-κO)lithium]
Authors: Mdluli Velabo , Golen James A. , Manke David R.
Published: January 2016

The title compound, [Li2(C12H10NS)2(C4H8O)4], exists as a dimer in the solid state, with a central four-membered Li2N2ring that is planar by crystallographic inversion symmetry. The Li atoms are bridged by the N atoms of two anilide ligands, and each Li atom is coordinated by two O atoms from tetrahydrofuran ligands, resulting in a distorted tetrahedral N2O2environment. One of the tetrahydrofuran rings is disordered over two sets of sites in a 0.665 (16):0.335 (6) ratio.
Conflicting Subcultures in Mergers and Acquisitions: a Longitudinal Study of Integrating a Radical Internet Firm into a Bureaucratic Telecoms Firm
Authors: van Marrewijk Alfons
Published: January 2016

Media and telecommunications companies face the problem of how to integrate diametrically opposite radical internet firms after acquisition. Extant mergers and acquisitions (M&A) studies report that differences in the organizational culture are important in the cultural integration process. Frequently, M&A research assumes organizational cultures to be homogeneous and unified, but a large body of organizational literature suggests that organizations should be understood as heterogeneous living worlds in which employees construct their own subcultures. The paper focuses on the question of how such subcultures affect the long‐term cultural integration of merged firms. A 12‐year longitudinal field study in the Netherlands examined the integration of iPioneer into Telcom. The findings of the study show how three subcultures in iPioneer influenced the cultural integration process. The paper makes a contribution to the academic debate on cultural integration in domestic M&A by acknowledging that the numerous coexisting subcultures influence cultural integration in the complex process of post‐acquisition integration.
Tracking official development assistance for reproductive health in conflict‐affected countries: 2002—2011
Authors: Patel P , Dahab M , Tanabe M , Murphy A , Ettema L , Guy S , Roberts B
Published: January 2016

Objective

To provide information on trends on official development assistance (ODA) disbursement patterns for reproductive health activities in 18 conflict‐affected countries.

Design

Secondary data analysis.

Sample

18 conflict‐affected countries and 36 non‐conflict‐affected countries.

Methods

The Creditor Reporting System (CRS) database was analyzed for ODA disbursement for direct and indirect reproductive health activities to 18 conflict‐affected countries (2002–2011). A comparative analysis was also made with 36 non‐conflict‐affected counties in the same ‘least‐developed’ income category. Multivariate regression analyses examined associations between conflict status and reproductive health ODA and between reproductive needs and ODA disbursements.

Main outcome measures

Patterns of ODA disbursements (constant U.S. dollars) for reproductive health activities.

Results

The average annual ODA disbursed for reproductive health to 18 conflict‐affected countries from 2002 to 2011 was US$ 1.93 per person per year. There was an increase of 298% in ODA for reproductive health activities to the conflict‐affected countries between 2002 and 2011; 56% of this increase was due to increases in HIV/AIDS funding. The average annual per capita reproductive health ODA disbursed to least‐developed non‐conflict‐affected countries was 57% higher than to least‐developed conflict‐affected countries. Regression analyses confirmed disparities in ODA to and between conflict‐affected countries.

Conclusions

Despite increases in ODA for reproductive health for conflict‐affected countries (albeit largely for HIV/AIDS activities), considerable disparities remains.

Tweetable abstract

Study tracking 10 years of aid for reproductive aid shows major disparities for conflict‐affected countries.
Distance and Border Effects on Price Transmission: A Meta‐analysis
Authors: Kouyaté Carolin , von Cramon‐Taubadel Stephan
Published: January 2016

Using price transmission estimates for 1,189 cereal market pairs extracted from 57 published studies in a meta‐analysis, we examine whether geographic distance and separation by an international border affects the strength and speed of price transmission. Our findings indicate that a border reduces the likelihood that two cereal prices will be cointegrated by 23%, and each additional 1,000 km of distance reduces the probability of cointegration by 7%. The speed of price transmission is on average 13 percentage points per period faster between prices that are located within the same country compared with cross‐border price pairs. Our meta‐analysis also indicates that increasing distance strongly reduces the speed of price transmission on domestic markets, but that the effect of distance on the speed of transmission is considerably weaker for trade over longer international distances. Overall, these results confirm expectations and complement the findings in the trade literature that borders and distance affect trade flows and price dispersion.
Financial Literacy, Broker–Borrower Interaction and Mortgage Default
Authors: Conklin* James N.
Published: January 2016

This article examines the relationship between broker–borrower interaction in the origination process and subsequent mortgage performance. I show that face‐to‐face interaction between a mortgage broker and borrower before the loan funds is associated with lower levels of ex post
default. The relation between face‐to‐face broker–borrower interaction and mortgage performance holds only for borrowers that have characteristics associated with low levels of financial literacy. Specifically, face‐to‐face interaction is negatively related to default for minorities, borrowers located in areas with low levels of education, low‐income borrowers and borrowers with low FICO scores. My results suggest that face‐to‐face interaction between the mortgage broker and borrower may reduce problems associated with financial illiteracy.
Do Liquidated Damages Clauses Affect Strategic Mortgage Default Morality? A Test of the Disjunctive Thesis
Authors: Seiler Michael J.
Published: January 2016

We test the disjunctive thesis as it relates to mortgage contracts and find that a liquidated damages clause shifts ones view of a mortgage from a promise to perform to either a promise to perform or pay compensatory damages. However, when a strategic mortgage default is responsible for the breach, the perceived immorality of this action overwhelms the liquidated damages clause effect in support of the disjunctive thesis. We also find that people's conscious “experimentally stated preference” moral stance on installment loan (mortgages, auto loans, credit card debt and even cell phone contracts) default significantly differs from their subconscious “experimentally revealed preference” moral stance indicating a difference between what people say they believe and what they actually believe.
Real Assets, Liquidation Value and Choice of Financing
Authors: Liu Crocker H. , Liu Peng , Zhang Zhipeng
Published: January 2016

We use real estate firms to examine how asset liquidation values influence a firm's financing choice, because the productivity and quality of each asset is observable and potential measures of an asset's liquidation value are easier to ascertain ex ante. We show that compared to firms that issue equity, firms that issue debt have higher asset quality. The effect of their expected asset liquidation value is significant, even after we control for other factors that influence financing decisions. For firms whose assets' quality is not easily observable, we find that firms' financing choices depend heavily on conditions in the overall real estate market.
Radiation therapy‐induced neuro‐Sweet disease in a patient with oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wallett Arabella , Newland Kate , Foster‐Smith Erwin
Published: January 2016

Neurological involvement is a rare extracutanenous manifestation of Sweet's syndrome. We present a novel case of radiation therapy‐induced neuro‐Sweet disease in a patient receiving treatment for an oral squamous cell carcinoma.
Role of oral tramadol 50 mg in reducing pain associated with outpatient hysteroscopy: A randomised double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Hassan AbdelGany , Haggag Hisham
Published: January 2016

Background

Several drugs have been used to reduce hysteroscopy‐associated pain. Although the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists has recommended against the use of opiates in outpatient hysteroscopy, we wished to investigate if opioids can be used if the appropriate opioid was given in the appropriate dose.

Aim

To study the effectiveness of tramadol 50 mg in reducing pain associated with outpatient hysteroscopy.

Materials and Methods

A prospective randomised double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial conducted in the outpatient hysteroscopy clinic at Cairo University Hospital. Main outcome measures were the severity of pain during the procedure, immediately after the procedure and 30 minutes later assessed by a visual analogue scale (VAS). VAS of 0 indicates no pain and VAS of 10 indicates the worst possible pain.

Results

A total of 140 women who had diagnostic outpatient hysteroscopy were randomised to receive oral tramadol 50 mg or placebo one h before performing outpatient hysteroscopy. There was no difference between the groups in the age, parity, duration of the procedures or indications of hysteroscopy. The median pain score was significantly lower in the tramadol group during the procedure (5 vs 6; P = 0.013), immediately after the procedure (3 vs 4; P < 0.036), and 30 minute later (1 vs 2; P = 0.034). Two women in the tramadol group reported nausea, but this was mild and did not warrant cancelling the procedure.

Conclusions

Oral administration of tramadol 50 mg before hysteroscopy reduces the pain evoked by the procedure and the drug was well tolerated by women.
HERV‐K(HML‐2), a seemingly silent subtenant – but still waters run deep
Authors: Hanke Kirsten , Hohn Oliver , Bannert Norbert
Published: January 2016

A large proportion of the human genome consists of endogenous retroviruses, some of which are well preserved, showing transcriptional activity, and expressing retroviral proteins. The HERV‐K(HML‐2) family represents the most intact members of these elements, with some having open and intact reading frames for viral proteins and the ability to form virus‐like particles. Although generally suppressed in most healthy tissues by a variety of epigenetic processes and antiviral mechanisms, there is evidence that some members of this family are (at least partly) still active – particularly in certain stem cells and various tumors. This raises the possibility of their involvement in tumor induction or in developmental processes. In recent years, many new insights into this fascinating field have been attained, and this review focuses on new discoveries about coevolutionary events and intracellular defense mechanisms against HERV‐K(HML‐2) activity. We also describe what might occur when these mechanisms fail or become modulated by viral proteins or other viruses and discuss the new vistas opened up by the reconstitution of ancestral viral proteins and even complete HML‐2 viruses.
Human endogenous retroviruses in neurologic disease
Authors: Christensen Tove
Published: January 2016

Endogenous retroviruses are pathogenic – in other species than the human. Disease associations for Human Endogenous RetroViruses (HERVs) are emerging, but so far an unequivocal pathogenetic cause‐effect relationship has not been established. A role for HERVs has been proposed in neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases as diverse as multiple sclerosis (MS) and schizophrenia (SCZ). Particularly for MS, many aspects of the activation and involvement of specific HERV families (HERV‐H/F and HERV‐W/MSRV) have been reported, both for cells in the circulation and in the central nervous system. Notably envelope genes and their gene products (Envs) appear strongly associated with the disease. For SCZ, for ALS, and for HIV‐associated dementia (HAD), indications are accumulating for involvement of the HERV‐K family, and also HERV‐H/F and/or HERV‐W. Activation is reasonably a prerequisite for causality as most HERV sequences remain quiescent in non‐pathological conditions, so the importance of regulatory pathways and epigenetics involved in regulating HERV activation, derepression, and also involvement of retroviral restriction factors, is emerging. HERV‐directed antiretrovirals have potential as novel therapeutic paradigms in neurologic disease, particularly in MS. The possible protective or ameliorative effects of antiretroviral therapy in MS are substantiated by reports that treatment of HIV infection may be associated with a significantly decreased risk of MS. Further studies of HERVs, their role in neurologic diseases, and their potential as therapeutic targets are essential.
The role of human endogenous retroviruses in brain development and function
Authors: Mortelmans Kristien , Wang‐Johanning Feng , Johanning Gary L.
Published: January 2016

Endogenous retroviral sequences are spread throughout the genome of all humans, and make up about 8% of the genome. Despite their prevalence, the function of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) in humans is largely unknown. In this review we focus on the brain, and evaluate studies in animal models that address mechanisms of endogenous retrovirus activation in the brain and central nervous system (CNS). One such study in mice found that TRIM28, a protein critical for mouse early development, regulates transcription and silencing of endogenous retroviruses in neural progenitor cells. Another intriguing finding in human brain cells and mouse models was that endogenous retrovirus HERV‐K appears to be protective against neurotoxins. We also report on studies that associate HERVs with human diseases of the brain and CNS. There is little doubt of an association between HERVs and a number of CNS diseases. However, a cause and effect relationship between HERVs and these diseases has not yet been established.
Vascular Reactivity Profile of Novel KCa3.1‐Selective Positive‐Gating Modulators in the Coronary Vascular Bed
Authors: Oliván‐Viguera Aida , Valero Marta Sofía , Pinilla Estéfano , Amor Sara , García‐Villalón Ángel Luis , Coleman Nichole , Laría Celia , Calvín‐Tienza Víctor , García‐Otín Ángel‐Luis , Fernández‐Fernández José M. , Murillo Mª Divina , Gálvez José A. , Díaz‐de‐Villegas María D. , Badorrey Ramón , Simonsen Ulf , Rivera Luis , Wulff Heike , Köhler Ralf
Published: January 2016

Opening of intermediate‐conductance calcium‐activated potassium channels (KCa3.1) produces membrane hyperpolarization in the vascular endothelium. Here, we studied the ability of two new KCa3.1‐selective positive‐gating modulators, SKA‐111 and SKA‐121, to (1) evoke porcine endothelial cell KCa3.1 membrane hyperpolarization, (2) induce endothelium‐dependent and, particularly, endothelium‐derived hyperpolarization (EDH)‐type relaxation in porcine coronary arteries (PCA) and (3) influence coronary artery tone in isolated rat hearts. In whole‐cell patch‐clamp experiments on endothelial cells of PCA (PCAEC), KCa currents evoked by bradykinin (BK) were potentiated ≈7‐fold by either SKA‐111 or SKA‐121 (both at 1 μM) and were blocked by a KCa3.1 blocker, TRAM‐34. In membrane potential measurements, SKA‐111 and SKA‐121 augmented bradykinin‐induced hyperpolarization. Isometric tension measurements in large‐ and small‐calibre PCA showed that SKA‐111 and SKA‐121 potentiated endothelium‐dependent relaxation with intact NO synthesis and EDH‐type relaxation to BK by ≈2‐fold. Potentiation of the BK response was prevented by KCa3.1 inhibition. In Langendorff‐perfused rat hearts, SKA‐111 potentiated coronary vasodilation elicited by BK. In conclusion, our data show that positive‐gating modulation of KCa3.1 channels improves BK‐induced membrane hyperpolarization and endothelium‐dependent relaxation in small and large PCA as well as in the coronary circulation of rats. Positive‐gating modulators of KCa3.1 could be therapeutically useful to improve coronary blood flow and counteract impaired coronary endothelial dysfunction in cardiovascular disease.
A Psychodynamic Perspective on a Systematic Review of Online Psychotherapy for Adults
Authors: de Bitencourt Machado Diogo , Braga Laskoski Pricilla , Trelles Severo Charlie , Margareth Bassols Ana , Sfoggia Ana , Kowacs Clarice , Valle Krieger Daniela , Benetti Torres Mariana , Bento Gastaud Marina , Stella Wellausen Rafael , Pigatto Teche Stefania , Laks Eizirik ClÁUdio
Published: January 2016

A variety of new psychotherapy modalities has arisen in which the contact between patient and therapist takes place via the internet. The main objective of this systematic review is to investigate the types of online psychotherapy (OP) conducted nowadays, and to describe their main characteristics to psychodynamic psychotherapists who may wish to better understand the current scientific literature on the subject. The review used two databases, EMBASE and PsycINFO. Fifty‐nine studies were retrieved and the main online psychotherapy modalities identified were self‐therapy programmes using contact via email or chat; videoconference; and therapy exclusively via chat or email. The result of these studies suggests that OP is more effective than a waiting list control group. When compared with face‐to‐face therapies, OP showed similar effects. Most studies involved cognitive behavioural therapy; only two studies involved a form of psychodynamic psychotherapy. Different forms of communication allow patient and therapist to establish different relationships and therapeutic possibilities. OPs may be feasible treatment alternatives; however, it remains unclear, especially in relation to psychodynamic treatments, if therapeutic technique in OP, which involves changes in comparison with face‐to‐face therapies, would be useful in severe cases. Psychodynamic psychotherapists should adopt a posture of constant reflection on the changes taking place in the world and their impact on the minds of individuals, without, nevertheless, idealizing the ‘new’.
Knowledge and Experience Predict Indiscriminate Bat‐Killing Intentions among Costa Rican Men
Authors: Reid J. Leighton
Published: January 2016

Human–wildlife conflicts create collateral damage when people attempt to control one problematic species and inadvertently kill others. I observed a collateral damage problem in southern Costa where people seeking to control common vampire bats (Desmodus rotundus) indiscriminately killed sympatric, non‐target bat species (e.g., by baiting bats with poisoned bananas). To learn about this phenomenon and its causes, I developed and implemented a questionnaire based on the theory of planned behavior. In a sample of 504 men, 14 percent had individually killed 1–115 bats within the past 5 yr, 68 percent had killed bats as children, and 27 percent said that they would kill bats that they found roosting on their farms, even if they could not identify the species. Men who intended to indiscriminately kill bats thought that it would reduce disease transmission to livestock, whereas men who did not intend to kill bats thought that killing bats would reduce ecosystem functioning and/or damage nature. Ultimately, men were more likely to intend to indiscriminately kill bats if they knew less about bat natural history and/or had previously suffered vampire bats attacking their livestock. Men knew more about bat natural history and were less likely to harbor indiscriminate bat‐killing intentions if they had experienced some form of environmental education. My results suggest that environmental education will be most effective for bat conservation when combined with farmer support to ameliorate perceived livelihood risks associated with vampire bats.
Red coloration in young tropical leaves associated with reduced fungal pathogen damage
Authors: Tellez Peter , Rojas Enith , Van Bael Sunshine
Published: January 2016

The adaptive significance of red coloration in tropical forest leaves remains unclear. In vivo assays show that there is a significant negative correlation between anthocyanin pigments in young leaves and fungal pathogen damage. This supports a previous hypothesis that anthocyanins may protect young leaves from fungal damage during the vulnerable period of leaf expansion.
What is the fracking story in Canada?
Authors: Olive Andrea
Published: January 2016

Key Messages

The fracking story in Canada is about water pollution, economic benefits, uncertain risks, moratoriums, and energy independence.

The fracking story in Canada is not about Aboriginal politics, earthquakes, or climate change.

Media coverage in Canada of hydraulic fracturing is selective and focuses on particular stories about the economy or the environment, but not both.