bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Susceptibility‐based positive contrast MRI of brachytherapy seeds
Authors: Dong Ying , Chang Zheng , Xie Guoxi , Whitehead Gregory , Ji Jim X.
Published: September 2014

Purpose

To provide visualization of the brachytherapy seeds and differentiation with natural structures in MRI by taking advantage of their high magnetic susceptibility to generate positive‐contrast images.

Methods

The method is based on mapping the susceptibility using an equivalent short‐TE sequence and a kernel deconvolution algorithm with a regularized L1 minimization. An appealing aspect of the method is that signals from the surrounding areas where signal to noise ratio (SNR) is sufficiently high are used to derive the susceptibility of the seeds, even though the SNR in the immediate vicinity of the seeds can be extremely low due to rapid signal decay.

Results

The method is tested using computer simulations and experimental data. Comparing to conventional methods, the proposed method improves seed definition by a factor of >70% in the experiments. It produces the enhanced contrast at the exact seed location, whereas methods based on susceptibility gradient mapping produce highlighted regions surrounding the seeds. The proposed method is capable to perform the function for a wide range of resolutions and SNRs.

Conclusion

The results show that the proposed method provides positive contrast for the seeds and correctly differentiates them from other structures that appear similar to the seeds on conventional magnitude images. Magn Reson Med 74:716–726, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Structure‐Based Evolution of Subtype‐Selective Neurotensin Receptor Ligands
Authors: Schaab Carolin , Kling Ralf Christian , Einsiedel Jürgen , Hübner Harald , Clark Tim , Seebach Dieter , Gmeiner Peter
Published: September 2014

Subtype‐selective agonists of the neurotensin receptor NTS2 represent a promising option for the treatment of neuropathic pain, as NTS2 is involved in the mediation of μ‐opioid‐independent anti‐nociceptive effects. Based on the crystal structure of the subtype NTS1 and previous structure–activity relationships (SARs) indicating a potential role for the sub‐pocket around Tyr11 of NT(8–13) in subtype‐specific ligand recognition, we have developed new NTS2‐selective ligands. Starting from NT(8–13), we replaced the tyrosine unit by β2‐amino acids (type 1), by heterocyclic tyrosine bioisosteres (type 2) and peptoid analogues (type 3). We were able to evolve an asymmetric synthesis of a 5‐substituted azaindolylalanine and its application as a bioisostere of tyrosine capable of enhancing NTS2 selectivity. The S‐configured test compound 2 a, [(S)‐3‐(pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyridine‐5‐yl)‐propionyl11]NT(8–13), exhibits substantial NTS2 affinity (4.8 nm) and has a nearly 30‐fold NTS2 selectivity over NTS1. The (R)‐epimer 2 b showed lower NTS2 affinity but more than 600‐fold selectivity over NTS1.
Uracil‐DNA glycosylases—Structural and functional perspectives on an essential family of DNA repair enzymes
Authors: Schormann N. , Ricciardi R. , Chattopadhyay D.
Published: September 2014

Uracil‐DNA glycosylases (UDGs) are evolutionarily conserved DNA repair enzymes that initiate the base excision repair pathway and remove uracil from DNA. The UDG superfamily is classified into six families based on their substrate specificity. This review focuses on the family I enzymes since these are the most extensively studied members of the superfamily. The structural basis for substrate specificity and base recognition as well as for DNA binding, nucleotide flipping and catalytic mechanism is discussed in detail. Other topics include the mechanism of lesion search and molecular mimicry through interaction with uracil‐DNA glycosylase inhibitors. The latest studies and findings detailing structure and function in the UDG superfamily are presented.
Exploring Students’ Integration of Learning After Four Years of College
Authors: Barber James P.
Published: September 2014

This chapter uses findings on integration of learning from the qualitative portion of the WNS to discuss how students make connections between skills, ideas, and knowledge across contexts.
Water Sensitive Urban Design: Investigating Opportunities for Thiruvananthapuram
Authors: Chandran C. K. Ajai , Gowda Krishne
Published: September 2014

Balancing the health and sustainable use of water bodies with human needs and social benefits
Predictive value of cervical length in women with twin pregnancy presenting with threatened preterm labor
Authors: Melamed N. , Hiersch L. , Gabbay‐Benziv R. , Bardin R. , Meizner I. , Wiznitzer A. , Yogev Y.
Published: September 2014

Objective

To assess the accuracy and determine the optimal threshold of sonographic cervical length (CL) for the prediction of preterm delivery (PTD) in women with twin pregnancies presenting with threatened preterm labor (PTL).

Methods

This was a retrospective study of women with twin pregnancies who presented with threatened PTL and underwent sonographic measurement of CL in a tertiary center. The accuracy of CL in predicting PTD in women with twin pregnancies was compared with that in a control group of women with singleton pregnancies.

Results

Overall, 218 women with a twin pregnancy and 1077 women with a singleton pregnancy, who presented with PTL, were included in the study. The performance of CL as a predictive test for PTD was similar in twins and singletons, as reflected by the similar correlation between CL and the examination‐to‐delivery interval (r, 0.30 vs 0.29; P = 0.9), the similar association of CL with risk of PTD, and the similar areas under the receiver–operating characteristics curves for differing delivery outcomes (range, 0.653–0.724 vs 0.620–0.682, respectively; P = 0.3). The optimal threshold of CL for any given target sensitivity or specificity was lower in twin than in singleton pregnancies. However, in order to achieve a negative predictive value of 95%, a higher threshold (28–30 mm) should be used in twin pregnancies. Using this twin‐specific CL threshold, women with twins who present with PTL are more likely to have a positive CL test, and therefore to require subsequent interventions, than are women with singleton pregnancies with PTL (55% vs 4.2%, respectively).

Conclusion

In women with PTL, the performance of CL as a test for the prediction of PTD is similar in twin and singleton pregnancies. However, the optimal threshold of CL for the prediction of PTD appears to be higher in twin pregnancies, mainly owing to the higher baseline risk for PTD in these pregnancies. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Is there a link between the crafting of tools and the evolution of cognition?
Authors: Taylor Alex H. , Gray Russell D.
Published: September 2014

The ability to craft tools is one of the defining features of our species. The technical intelligence hypothesis predicts that tool‐making species should have enhanced physical cognition. Here we review how the physical problem‐solving performance of tool‐making apes and corvids compares to closely related species. We conclude that, while some performance differences have been found, overall the evidence is at best equivocal. We argue that increased sample sizes, novel experimental designs, and a signature‐testing approach are required to determine the effect tool crafting has on the evolution of intelligence. WIREs Cogn Sci 2014, 5:693–703. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1322

This article is categorized under:

Cognitive Biology > Evolutionary Roots of Cognition

Psychology > Comparative Psychology
Sarcopenia and Frailty in Elderly Trauma Patients
Authors: Fairchild Berry , Webb Travis P. , Xiang Qun , Tarima Sergey , Brasel Karen J.
Published: September 2014

Background

Sarcopenia describes a loss of muscle mass and resultant decrease in strength, mobility, and function that can be quantified by CT. We hypothesized that sarcopenia and related frailty characteristics are related to discharge disposition after blunt traumatic injury in the elderly.

Methods

We reviewed charts of 252 elderly blunt trauma patients who underwent abdominal CT prior to hospital admission. Data for thirteen frailty characteristics were abstracted. Sarcopenia was measured by obtaining skeletal muscle cross‐sectional area (CSA) from each patient’s psoas major muscle using Slice‐O‐Matic® software. Dispositions were grouped as dependent and independent based on discharge location. χ2, Fisher’s exact, and logistic regression were used to determine factors associated with discharge dependence.

Results

Mean age 76 years, 49 % male, median ISS 9.0 (IQR = 8.0–17.0). Discharge destination was independent in 61.5 %, dependent in 29 %, and 9.5 % of patients died. Each 1 cm2 increase in psoas muscle CSA was associated with a 20 % decrease in dependent living (p < 0.0001). Gender, weakness, hospital complication, and cognitive impairment were also associated with disposition; ISS was not (p = 0.4754).

Conclusions

Lower psoas major muscle CSA is related to discharge destination in elderly trauma patients and can be obtained from the admission CT. Lower psoas muscle CSA is related to loss of independence upon discharge in the elderly. The early availability of this variable during the hospitalization of elderly trauma patients may aid in discharge planning and the transition to dependent living.
Stakeholders’ Perspectives on Community‐Based Participatory Research to Enhance Mental Health Services
Authors: Case Andrew D. , Byrd Ronald , Claggett Eddrena , DeVeaux Sandra , Perkins Reno , Huang Cindy , Sernyak Michael J. , Steiner Jeanne L. , Cole Robert , LaPaglia Donna M. , Bailey Margaret , Buchanan Candace , Johnson Avon , Kaufman Joy S.
Published: September 2014

Historically, consumers of mental health services have not been given meaningful roles in research and change efforts related to the services they use. This is quickly changing as scholars and a growing number of funding bodies now call for greater consumer involvement in mental health services research and improvement. Amidst these calls, community‐based participatory research (CBPR) has emerged as an approach which holds unique promise for capitalizing on consumer involvement in mental health services research and change. Yet, there have been few discussions of the value added by this approach above and beyond that of traditional means of inquiry and enhancement in adult mental health services. The purpose of this paper is to add to this discussion an understanding of potential multilevel and multifaceted benefits associated with consumer‐involved CBPR. This is accomplished through presenting the first‐person accounts of four stakeholder groups who were part of a consumer‐involved CBPR project purposed to improve the services of a local community mental health center. We present these accounts with the hope that by illustrating the unique outcomes associated with CBPR, there will be invigorated interest in CBPR as a vehicle for consumer involvement in adult mental health services research and enhancement.
Thyroid cancer: SEOM clinical guidelines
Authors: Trigo J. M. , Capdevila J. , Grande E. , Grau J. , Lianes P.
Published: September 2014

Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common type of endocrine malignancy and accounts for nearly 3 % of all malignancies. The incidence of TC in Spain was 5/100,000 in women and 1.9/100,000 in men in 2013. The diagnosis of TC usually follows the identification of a thyroid nodule on physical examination or as an incidental finding on diagnostic imaging performed for other reasons. In most of the cases, the prognosis is excellent but despite low mortality rates, local recurrence occurs in up to 20 %, and distant metastases can occur in approximately 10 % at 10 years. The better knowledge of molecular biology of TC has allowed to the development of new targeted agents directed to the main pathways involved in TC pathogenesis. Knowing all these new strategies will help us face the therapeutic management of TC more effectively.
From experiential psychology to consumer experience
Authors: Schmitt Bernd , Joško Brakus J. , Zarantonello Lia
Published: September 2014

We comment on Gilovich and colleagues' program of research on happiness resulting from experiential versus material purchases, and critique these authors' interpretation that people derive more happiness from experiences than from material possessions. Unlike goods, experiences cannot be purchased, and possessions versus experiences do not seem to form the endpoints of the same continuum. As an alternative, we present a consumer‐experience model that views materialism and experientialism as two separate dimensions whose effects on consumer happiness, both in the form of pleasure and in the form of meaning, depend on the type of brand experiences evoked. Thus, a good life in a consumerist society means integrating material and experiential consumptions rather than shifting spending from material to experiential purchases.
The preference‐signaling effect of search
Authors: Ge Xin , Brigden Neil , Häubl Gerald
Published: September 2014

Consumers often make choices in settings where some alternatives are known and additional alternatives can be unveiled through search. When making a choice from a set of alternatives, the manner in which each of these was discovered should be irrelevant from a normative standpoint. By contrast, we propose that consumers infer from their own decisions to search for additional alternatives that previously known alternatives are comparatively less attractive, and that this results in an increase in preference for an alternative precisely because it was initially out of sight (rather than known). Evidence from four experiments provides support for this theorizing, demonstrating that — paradoxically placing an alternative out of sight (while providing the consumer with the opportunity to unveil it) can render that alternative more likely to be chosen. Moreover, the findings indicate that this shift in preferences is driven specifically by a devaluation of alternatives that were known prior to the decision to search. Finally, the preference‐signaling effect of search is shown to be persistent in that it systematically influences a consumer's subsequent choices among new alternatives.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the left atrial appendage post pulmonary vein isolation: Implications for percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion
Authors: Singh Sheldon M. , Jimenez‐Juan Laura , Danon Asaf , Bastarrika Gorka , Shmatukha Andriy V. , Wright Graham A. , Crystal Eugene
Published: September 2014

Background

There is increasing interest in performing left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion at the time of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation procedures. However, to date there has been no description of the acute changes to the LAA immediately following pulmonary vein (PV) isolation and additional left atrium (LA) substrate modification. This study assessed changes in the size and tissue characteristics of the LAA ostium in patients undergoing PV isolation.

Methods

This series included 8 patients who underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance evaluation of the LA with delayed enhancement magnetic resonance imaging and contrast enhanced 3‐D magnetic resonance angiography pre‐, within 48 h of, and 3 months post ablation. Two independent cardiac radiologists evaluated the ostial LAA diameters and area at each time point in addition to the presence of gadolinium enhancement.

Results

Compared to pre‐ablation values, the respective median differences in oblique diameters and LAA area were +1.8 mm, +1.7 mm, and +0.6 cm2 immediately post ablation (all NS) and −2.7 mm, −2.3 mm, and −0.5 cm2 at 3 months (all NS). No delayed enhancement was detected in the LAA post ablation.

Conclusion

No significant change to LAA diameter, area, or tissue characteristics was noted after PV isolation. While these findings suggest the safety and feasibility of concomitant PV isolation and LAA device occlusion, the variability in the degree and direction of change of the LAA measurements highlights the need for further study.
Benefits of exercise training and the correlation between aerobic capacity and functional outcomes and quality of life in elderly patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Chen Chia‐Hsin , Chen Yi‐Jen , Tu Hung‐Pin , Huang Mao‐Hsiung , Jhong Jing‐Hui , Lin Ko‐Long
Published: September 2014

Cardiopulmonary exercise training is beneficial to people with coronary artery disease (CAD). Nevertheless, the correlation between aerobic capacity, and functional mobility and quality of life in elderly CAD patients is less addressed. The purpose of the current study is to investigate the beneficial effects of exercise training in elderly people with CAD, integrating exercise stress testing, functional mobility, handgrip strength, and health‐related quality of life. Elderly people with CAD were enrolled from the outpatient clinic of a cardiac rehabilitation unit in a medical center. Participants were assigned to the exercise training group (N = 21) or the usual care group (N = 15). A total of 36 sessions of exercise training, completed in 12 weeks, was prescribed. Echocardiography, exercise stress testing, the 6‐minute walking test, Timed Up and Go test, and handgrip strength testing were performed, and the Short‐Form 36 questionnaire (SF‐36) was administered at baseline and at 12‐week follow‐up. Peak oxygen consumption improved significantly after training. The heart rate recovery improved from 13.90/minute to 16.62/minute after exercise training. Functional mobility and handgrip strength also improved after training. Significant improvements were found in SF‐36 physical function, social function, role limitation due to emotional problems, and mental health domains. A significant correlation between dynamic cardiopulmonary exercise testing parameters, the 6‐minute walking test, Timed Up and Go test, handgrip strength, and SF‐36 physical function and general health domains was also detected. Twelve‐week, 36‐session exercise training, including moderate‐intensity cardiopulmonary exercise training, strengthening exercise, and balance training, is beneficial to elderly patients with CAD, and cardiopulmonary exercise testing parameters correlate well with balance and quality of life.
Rheology of sheared suspensions of rough frictional particles
Authors: Gallier Stany , Lemaire Elisabeth , Peters François , Lobry Laurent
Published: September 2014

This paper presents three-dimensional numerical simulations of non-Brownian concentrated suspensions in a Couette flow at zero Reynolds number using a fictitious domain method. Contacts between particles are modelled using a discrete element method (DEM)-like approach, which allows for a more physical description, including roughness and friction. This work emphasizes the effect of friction between particles and its role on rheological properties, especially on normal stress differences. Friction is shown to notably increase viscosity and second normal stress difference $\def \xmlpi #1{}\def \mathsfbi #1{\boldsymbol {\mathsf {#1}}}\let \le =\leqslant \let \leq =\leqslant \let \ge =\geqslant \let \geq =\geqslant \def \Pr {\mathit {Pr}}\def \Fr {\mathit {Fr}}\def \Rey {\mathit {Re}}|N_2|$ and decrease $|N_1|$, in better agreement with experiments. The hydrodynamic and contact contributions to the overall particle stress are particularly investigated. This shows that the effect of friction is mostly due to the additional contact stress since the hydrodynamic stress remains unaffected by friction. Simulation results are also compared with experiments, such as normal stresses or effective friction coefficient $\mu (I_v)$, and the agreement is improved when friction is accounted for. This suggests that friction is operative in actual suspensions.
Does Information Lead to Emulation? Spatial Dependence in Anti-Government Violence
Authors: Garcia Blake E. , Wimpy Cameron
Published: September 2014

This study examines whether acts of anti-government violence exhibit spatial dependence across state boundaries. In other words, to what extent can acts of anti-government violence in one country be attributed to violence in neighboring countries? Past research, which has largely focused on civil war or large-scale conflict contagion, finds that geographically proximate states are more likely to experience the cross-boundary diffusion of conflict due to action emulation. However, this assumes that actors are fully aware of conflicts occurring in neighboring countries. To address this, the article argues that the proliferation of communication technology increases access to information about events in neighboring states, thereby allowing emulation to occur and subsequently conditioning the potential for violence to spread. It tests this expectation by modeling the effects of a unique spatial connectivity matrix that incorporates both state contiguity and access to communication technology. An analysis of all acts of anti-government violence in 44 African countries from 2000 to 2011 supports the argument.
CARDINALITY OF INVERSE LIMITS WITH UPPER SEMICONTINUOUS BONDING FUNCTIONS
Authors: ROŠKARIČ MATEJ , TRATNIK NIKO
Published: September 2014

We explore the cardinality of generalised inverse limits. Among other things, we show that, for any $n\in \{ℵ_{0},c,1,2,3,\dots \}$, there is an upper semicontinuous function with the inverse limit having exactly $n$ points. We also prove that if $f$ is an upper semicontinuous function whose graph is a continuum, then the cardinality of the corresponding inverse limit is either 1, $ℵ_{0}$ or $c$. This generalises the recent result of I. Banič and J. Kennedy, which claims that the same is true in the case where the graph is an arc.
FINITE 3-GEODESIC TRANSITIVE BUT NOT 3-ARC TRANSITIVE GRAPHS
Authors: JIN WEI
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we first prove that for $g\in \{3,4\}$, there are infinitely many 3-geodesic transitive but not 3-arc transitive graphs of girth $g$ with arbitrarily large diameter and valency. Then we classify the family of 3-geodesic transitive but not 3-arc transitive graphs of valency 3 and those of valency 4 and girth 4.
Effect of flaxseed on choroid–sclera complex thickness and on LDL oxidation in the sclera, choroid and retina of diet-induced hypercholesterolaemic rabbits
Authors: de Almeida Torres Rogil José , Luchini Andrea , Both Alessandro Soares , Precoma Leonardo Brandao , Champoski Ana Flavia , Schuh Maynara Leonardi , de Almeida Torres Renan Pedro , Noronha Lucia , Pessoa Bernardo Molinari , de Almeida Torres Lucas Antonio , de França Serci Nicole Francesca , Precoma Dalton Bertolim
Published: September 2014

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of flaxseed on choroid–sclera complex thickness and on LDL oxidation in the sclera, choroid and retina of diet-induced hypercholesterolaemic rabbits. New Zealand male albino rabbits (n 21) were divided into two groups: group 1 (G1; n 11), fed a hypercholesterolaemic diet, and group 2 (G2; n 10), fed a hypercholesterolaemic diet enriched with flaxseed flour. The serum concentrations of total cholesterol (TC), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), HDL-cholesterol, TAG and fasting blood glucose were determined at the start of the experiment and on the day of killing (8th week). Choroid and sclera samples were subjected to haematoxylin–eosin (HE) staining and histomorphometric and immunohistochemical analyses with the anti-oxidised LDL antibody. Sensory retina samples were subjected to an immunohistochemical analysis with the primary monoclonal nitrotyrosine antibody. At the end of the experiment, a significant increase was observed in TC and LDL-C concentrations in G1 rabbits when compared with G2 rabbits (P= 0·008 and P= 0·02, respectively). HE staining revealed a significant increase in choroid–sclera complex thickness in G1 rabbits when compared with G2 rabbits (P< 0·001). Immunohistochemical analysis of choroid and sclera samples with the anti-oxidised LDL marker revealed a significant increase in immunoreactivity in G1 rabbits when compared with G2 rabbits (P< 0·001). Immunohistochemical analysis of sensory retina samples with the anti-nitrotyrosine marker revealed a significant increase in immunoreactivity in G1 rabbits when compared with G2 rabbits (P= 0·002). Flaxseed reduced the choroid–sclera complex thickness of diet-induced hypercholesterolaemic rabbits and the expression of oxidised LDL in the choroid–sclera complex as well as the expression of nitrotyrosine in the sensory retina.
Upregulation ofAtg5andAIFgene expression in synchronization with programmed cellular death events in integumental epithelium ofBombyx moriinduced by a dipteran parasitoid infection
Authors: Anitha J. , Pradeep A.R. , Sivaprasad V.
Published: September 2014

Infection of the commercially important silkworm,Bombyx moriby a tachnid parasitoid,Exorista bombycisinduced activation of genes and cellular responses associated with apoptosis in integumental epithelial cells. Composite cellular profile showed initial autophagy, intermediate endoplasmic reticulum degranulation and deformed nucleus as well as later DNA fragmentation indicating apoptosis. Two cell death-associated proteins, autophagy 5-like (Atg5L) and apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF), in addition to caspase, are identified from the infected integumental epithelium through mass spectrometric analysis. Genes encoding these proteins showed age-dependent activation after the infection as revealed by quantitative expression analysis.Atg5showed early upregulation in association with signs of autophagy whereasAIFshowed late upregulation in association with DNA condensation and fragmentation. Expression ofAIFshowed negative correlation with that ofAtg5after the infection. On the other hand, in control,caspaseexpression showed positive correlation withAIFexpression indicative of regulated expression in normal larval epithelium, which was absent after infection. Activation ofAtg5, AIFandcaspasegenes in close association with different cell death events revealed the synchronized differential expression of apoptosis-associated genes in response to the macroparasitism. Enhanced expression ofAtg5,AIFandcaspasegenes coupled with the appearance of cell death symptoms indicate parasitism-induced activation of genetic machinery to modulate cell death events in the epithelium, which was hither to unknown in invertebrate systems.
A new carnivorous sponge,Chondrocladia robertballardisp. nov. (Porifera: Cladorhizidae) from two north-east Atlantic seamounts
Authors: Cristobo J. , Rios P. , Pomponi S.A. , Xavier J.
Published: September 2014

Carnivorous sponges (Porifera: Cladorhizidae) are a particularly interesting group of species typically occurring in deep-sea habitats. In this study a new species, Chondrocladia(Chondrocladia)robertballardisp. nov., is described from specimens collected on two large north-east Atlantic seamounts – the Gorringe and Galicia Banks – located off the Iberian Peninsula. The holotype, collected on the Gorringe Bank by ROV, is a large, dichotomously branched and stalked sponge with translucent spheres in the middle of secondary axes and a rhizoid basal fixation system. Direct observations on the habit of the new species were made from the ROV. The paratypes, collected on the Galicia Bank by dredge and trawling, are fragments of different sizes. The skeleton is composed of a single class of styles and isochelae. All specimens were collected at similar depths (1400–1738 m) within the upper bathyal, and at the same longitude but separated by 670 km. A synthesis of the geographic as well as bathymetric distribution of this genus is presented. The species is compared with all known species of this genus worldwide.
Spatio-temporal distribution of Manta birostris
in French Guiana waters
Authors: Girondot Marc , Bédel Sophie , Delmoitiez Lise , Russo Mathilde , Chevalier Johan , Guéry Loreleï , Ben Hassine Sonia , Féon Hugo , Jribi Imed
Published: September 2014

Manta ray (Manta birostris) is the largest ray species, but
little information is available regarding its biology, distribution and
migratory pattern. During an aerial survey conducted in French Guiana waters
(South America) in 2006, the observation of several dozen individuals all
swimming in the same direction prompted us to develop a research programme
on this species as part of an environmental impact assessment for oil
drilling. Overall, 117 aerial surveys were performed over 3 years in order
to complete a database for this species. In 54 of these flights, a total of
138 individuals were observed. A phenological analysis of this species in
French Guiana waters shows a peak presence between July and December, which
correlates with sea surface temperature and net primary production in the
ocean. The primary production in French Guiana waters is particularly active
during this period and could explain the annual pattern for this
filter-feeding animal.
Testing models of cerebellar ataxia via dynamic simulation
Authors: Grow David , Bastian Amy J. , Okamura Allison M.
Published: September 2014

Patients with damage to the cerebellum make reaching movements that are uncoordinated or “ataxic.” One prevailing hypothesis is that the cerebellum functions as an internal model for planning movements, and that damage to the cerebellum results in movements that do not properly account for arm dynamics. An exoskeleton robot was used to record multi-joint reaching movements. Subsequently, joint-torque trajectories were calculated and a gradient descent algorithm found optimal, patient-specific perturbations to actual limb dynamics predicted to reduce directional reaching errors by an average of 41%, elucidating a promising form of robotic intervention and adding support to the internal model hypothesis.
ASYMPTOTICALLY UMP PANEL UNIT ROOT TESTS—THE EFFECT OF HETEROGENEITY IN THE ALTERNATIVES
Authors: Gaia Becheri I. , Drost Feike C. , Akker Ramon van den
Published: September 2014

In a Gaussian, heterogeneous, cross-sectionally independent panel with incidental intercepts, Moon, Perron, and Phillips (2007, Journal of Econometrics 141, 416–459) present an asymptotic power envelope yielding an upper bound to the local asymptotic power of unit root tests. In case of homogeneous alternatives this envelope is known to be sharp, but this paper shows that it is not attainable for heterogeneous alternatives. Using limit experiment theory we derive a sharp power envelope. We also demonstrate that, among others, one of the likelihood ratio based tests in Moon et al. (2007, Journal of Econometrics 141, 416–459), a pooled generalized least squares (GLS) based test using the Breitung and Meyer (1994, Applied Economics 25, 353–361) device, and a new test based on the asymptotic structure of the model are all asymptotically UMP (Uniformly Most Powerful). Thus, perhaps somewhat surprisingly, pooled regression-based tests may yield optimal tests in case of heterogeneous alternatives. Although finite-sample powers are comparable, the new test is easy to implement and has superior size properties.
In-motion Alignment of a Low-cost GPS/INS under Large Heading Error
Authors: Kaygısız Burak H. , Şen Bekir
Published: September 2014

This paper presents a new type of Global Positioning System/Inertial Navigation System (GPS/INS) providing higher navigation accuracy under large initial heading error. The mechanization introduced is applicable to low cost GPS/INS systems and enhances the performance when the heading error is large. The proposed approach has the capability to decrease large heading errors very quickly and can start the strapdown navigation computations under poor heading accuracy without any special alignment procedure. Although the design is applicable to land, sea and aerial vehicles, a land vehicle is used for the performance tests. The test is conducted around a closed path and the proposed system is compared to a GPS/INS system based on small attitude error assumption. The performance of both systems is given in this paper.
Residential Independence of Elderly Immigrants in Canada
Authors: Lee Sharon M. , Edmonston Barry
Published: September 2014

Cet article traite trois questions: les immigrants âgés sont-ils moins susceptibles que les personnes âgées, nées au Canada, de vivre de façon autonome? Quels sont les effets que les facteurs économiques, culturels et du parcours de vie exercent sur l'indépendance résidentielle chez les immigrants âgés? Quels sont les effets des caractéristiques propres aux immigrants, tels que la durée de résidence et le contexte culturel? Les résultats descriptifs montrent que les immigrants âgés sont moins susceptibles de vivre de façon autonome, mais le grand écart de plus de 15 pour cent est réduit à 5 pour cent quand les facteurs économiques, culturels, du parcours de la vie, et d'autres sont pris en compte dans l'analyse multivariée. Les effets des facteurs économiques, culturels et du parcours de vie sont pour la plupart comme prévu, de même que ceux des caractéristiques propres aux immigrants, comme la durée de résidence. Bien que les modes de vie des immigrants âgés sont plus variés que ceux de leurs pairs nés au Canada, ceux-ci sont de plus en plus susceptibles d'inclure l'indépendance résidentielle.
Analysis of published scientific research from Deception Island, South Shetland Islands
Authors: Tejedo Pablo , Gutiérrez Berta , Pertierra Luis R. , Benayas Javier
Published: September 2014

The aim of this study was to develop a methodology to assess the degree of multidisciplinarity and international co-operation between scientists working on Deception Island, using techniques based on social network analysis. A database was built of the scientific output, as represented by published articles, on Deception Island between 1964–2012. From the 173 published articles, the main topics, the temporal trends, the profile of the principal journals, and the contributions made by each country, research institution and scientist were obtained. The data presented show a significant role played by four of the six nations belonging to the Deception Island Management Group. However, collaborations between researchers in different fields was unusual and co-authoring by researchers from different countries was relatively low. These results show that there is a need to strengthen international co-operation, a highly advisable strategy in Antarctica due to the complexity of logistics and high operational costs. Studies such as this may help to identify synergies between institutions and researchers from different nations, improving the scientific collaboration in this area of priority for conservation and management.
Experimental formation of pore fluids in McMurdo Dry Valleys soils
Authors: Levy Joseph , Fountain Andrew , Lyons W. Berry , Welch Kathy
Published: September 2014

The aim of the study was to determine if soil salt deliquescence and brine hydration can occur under laboratory conditions using natural McMurdo Dry Valleys soils. The experiment was a laboratory analogue for the formation of isolated patches of hypersaline, damp soil, referred to as ‘wet patches’. Soils were oven dried and then hydrated in one of two humidity chambers: one at 100% relative humidity and the second at 75% relative humidity. Soil hydration is highly variable, and over the course of 20 days of hydration, ranged from increases in water content by mass from 0–16% for 122 soil samples from Taylor Valley. The rate and absolute amount of soil hydration correlates well with the soluble salt content of the soils but not with grain size distribution. This suggests that the formation of bulk pore waters in these soils is a consequence of salt deliquescence and hydration of the brine from atmospheric water vapour.
Microclimate and mass fluxes of debris-laden ice surfaces in Taylor Valley, Antarctica
Authors: Oliphant Andrew J. , Hindmarsh Richard C.A. , Cullen Nicolas J. , Lawson Wendy
Published: September 2014

This study investigates the microclimate and hydrology of debris-laden ice surfaces in the Taylor Valley, Antarctica, in early summer, focusing on the onset of melt. Measurements of energy and mass fluxes were made on an outwash fan and in moraines near the terminus of Taylor Glacier. The surface microclimate was strongly controlled by absorbed solar radiation, with a low albedo of 0.17. Seasonal warming of the substrate led to an abrupt shift in thermal and hydrological patterns as temperatures exceeded freezing point. Within a week the Bowen ratio switched from 2.05 to 0.48 and mass losses to the atmosphere increased four-fold from 0.39 to 1.6 mm d-1. Melt onset also produced complex ground temperature patterns with strong diurnal damping below the freezing front. These patterns were caused by phase changes in the freezing front, coupled with an abundant water supply from local runoff. Of secondary importance to the surface energy balance and mass fluxes was the effect of local winds on boundary layer characteristics. This resulted in larger mass losses during the more turbulent, warmer and drier down-valley flows.
Long-term population trends of the Red-legged CormorantPhalacrocorax gaimardion the Argentine coast
Authors: MILLONES ANA , GANDINI PATRICIA , FRERE ESTEBAN
Published: September 2014

The world population of Red-legged CormorantPhalacrocorax gaimardiis reasonably small and has showed rapid declines. In Argentina, this species breeds in 13 localities and is considered as ‘Endangered’ by the national government. In this study, we provide information about population trends of the Red-legged Cormorant on the Argentine coast, between 1990 and 2009. We also discuss whether these trends could be related to sea surface temperature and marine primary productivity, both of which are considered oceanographic factors that can affect breeding seabirds. The long-term trend in the breeding population showed a slight decrease of 1.2% per year. Seven colonies showed an average population change < 1. Periods of stability and increase were identified over the study period, but they were insufficient to compensate for the decreases. The largest colony of Red-legged Cormorants (La Mina, with more than 55% of the entire breeding population) seems to determine the overall population trend. We did not find a direct relationship between the overall number of Red-legged Cormorants and the two oceanographic factors analysed. However, our analysis detected a positive effect of ocean productivity close to the coast on the largest colony at the beginning of the breeding season, suggesting that coastal ocean productivity could be an important factor affecting temporal variations in the Argentinian population.
Impact of Shiny Cowbird and botfly parasitism on the reproductive success of the globally endangered Yellow CardinalGubernatrix cristata
Authors: DOMÍNGUEZ MARISOL , REBOREDA JUAN CARLOS , MAHLER BETTINA
Published: September 2014

The Yellow CardinalGubernatrix cristatais a globally endangered passerine endemic to southern South America. Although the conservation status of this species is alarming, there is no information about factors that affect its reproductive success. We studied the breeding biology of a Yellow Cardinal population in Corrientes province in north-east Argentina and report reproductive parameters, such as timing of breeding, clutch size, hatching success and chick survival and analyse factors influencing nest survival. The breeding season lasted from October to December with most nesting attempts occurring during the second half of November. Re-nesting after nest failure occurred in approximately 35% of pairs but we did not observe re-nesting after successful attempts. Modal clutch size was three eggs and successful nests fledged on average 1.6 chicks. We observed brood parasitism by Shiny CowbirdsMolothrus bonariensisin 33% of the nests. The main cost of brood parasitism was the puncture of cardinal eggs by cowbird females, which very often resulted in nest abandonment. Another factor reducing reproductive success was parasitism by botfliesPhilornissp., which occurred in 22% of the nests and reduced chick survival. We determined daily nest survival rate with MARK software and found that during the egg stage, it decreased with time of breeding and brood parasitism by Shiny Cowbirds. Our results indicate that Shiny Cowbird and botfly parasitism represent a threat for Yellow Cardinals. Conservation actions to protect the remaining populations of Yellow Cardinals should consider the impact of Shiny Cowbird parasitism.
Out of the darkness: the first comprehensive survey of the Critically Endangered Anjouan Scops OwlOtus capnodes
Authors: GREEN KATHLEEN E. , DANIEL BRONWEN M. , LLOYD SAMUEL P. , SAID ISHAKA , HOUMADI AMELAID , SALIM DANIEL M. , M’MADI SOUFIANI , DOULTON HUGH , YOUNG RICHARD P.
Published: September 2014

Although birds are among the best studied taxa, many of the globally threatened species lack the information required to fully assess their conservation status and needs. One such species is the Anjouan Scops OwlOtus capnodeswhich was presumed extinct until its rediscovery to science in 1992. Based on the limited extent and decline of the moist forests in the highlands of Anjouan in the Comoro Islands, a population size of only 100–200 pairs was estimated and the species was classified as ‘Critically Endangered’. The current study is the first comprehensive survey ever conducted on this species, and aimed to establish the current distribution and population size. Point counts with distance sampling were conducted across the agroforestry and forest zones of Anjouan in both a dry and wet season. A niche suitability model predicted the species distribution to be wider than expected with owls observed as low as 300 m altitude and in highly modified agroforestry habitats. However, the encounter rate in natural relatively undisturbed forest was significantly greater than in other habitats. The wider than expected geographic range ofO. capnodessupports a possible downlisting of this species on the IUCN Red List to ‘Endangered’. Population size was found to be far greater than previously thought, at approximately 3,450 individual owls in the dry season and 5,450 in the wet season. These results show the importance of investing in robust surveys of poorly known and cryptic bird species, and provide up to date and important information for landscape scale conservation planning in the Comoros Islands.
From peacekeeping to peacebuilding: the evolution of the role of the United Nations in peace operations
Authors: Hatto Ronald
Published: September 2014

Multifunctional peace operations have become an integral part of international society to the extent that they are now one of the major regulating institutions of international relations. The United Nations (UN) is the main player in setting up such operations. The UN has seen a major but gradual evolution of its role in maintaining and establishing peace. Having developed peacekeeping as a form of impartial interposition between belligerents during the Suez Crisis in 1956, the UN has continually broadened its sphere of action. These cumbersome and complex operations are demanding and present the UN with a number of challenges.
The Transnational Protection of Private Rights: Issues, Challenges, and Possible Solutions
Authors: MENON Sundaresh
Published: September 2014

The global community faces the challenge of dealing with movements in opposite directions: the emphasis on decolonization and self-determination in the postwar world has encouraged the building of barriers and boundaries between jurisdictions, while globalization has encouraged the breaking or transcending of the same. This paper focuses on the legal protection of private economic rights in the transnational arena by considering the regulation of transnational economic relationships at three different levels: (a) where a party's rights are not regulated or governed by any contract; (b) where there is a contract between the parties; and (c) where a foreign investor looks to protect its investment against unlawful interference by a host state. It concludes with some thoughts on what might lie ahead and suggests possible solutions to the issues and challenges faced.
Erratum: Phagotrophy by the picoeukaryotic green alga Micromonas: implications for Arctic Oceans
Authors: McKie-Krisberg Zaid M , Sanders Robert W
Published: September 2014

Correction to: The ISME Journal (2014) 8, 1953–1961; doi:10.1038/ismej.2014.16; published online 20 February 2014 Since the publication of this article, the authors have noticed that there is an error in the calculations of the per cell primary production rate which is presented in Figure 4, as wellas in the associated Table 1 of the article.
Topological transport and atomic tunnelling–clustering dynamics for aged Cu-doped Bi2Te3 crystals
Authors: Chen Taishi , Chen Qian , Schouteden Koen , Huang Wenkai , Wang Xuefeng , Li Zhe , Miao Feng , Wang Xinran , Li Zhaoguo , Zhao Bo , Li Shaochun , Song Fengqi , Wang Jinlan , Wang Baigeng , Van Haesendonck Chris , Wang Guanghou
Published: September 2014

Enhancing the transport contribution of surface states in topological insulators is vital if they are to be incorporated into practical devices. Such efforts have been limited by the defect behaviour of Bi2Te3 (Se3) topological materials, where the subtle bulk carrier from intrinsic defects is dominant over the surface electrons. Compensating such defect carriers is unexpectedly achieved in (Cu0.1Bi0.9)2Te3.06 crystals. Here we report the suppression of the bulk conductance of the material by four orders of magnitude by intense ageing. The weak antilocalization analysis, Shubnikov–de Haas oscillations and scanning tunnelling spectroscopy corroborate the transport of the topological surface states. Scanning tunnelling microscopy reveals that Cu atoms are initially inside the quintuple layers and migrate to the layer gaps to form Cu clusters during the ageing. In combination with first-principles calculations, an atomic tunnelling–clustering picture across a diffusion barrier of 0.57 eV is proposed.
The three-way switch operation of Rac1/RhoA GTPase-based circuit controlling amoeboid-hybrid-mesenchymal transition
Authors: Huang Bin , Lu Mingyang , Jolly Mohit Kumar , Tsarfaty Ilan , Onuchic José , Ben-Jacob Eshel
Published: September 2014

Metastatic carcinoma cells exhibit at least two different phenotypes of motility and invasion - amoeboid and mesenchymal. This plasticity poses a major clinical challenge for treating metastasis, while its underlying mechanisms remain enigmatic. Transitions between these phenotypes are mediated by the Rac1/RhoA circuit that responds to external signals such as HGF/SF via c-MET pathway. Using detailed modeling of GTPase-based regulation to study the Rac1/RhoA circuit's dynamics, we found that it can operate as a three-way switch. We propose to associate the circuit's three possible states to the amoeboid, mesenchymal and amoeboid/mesenchymal hybrid phenotype. In particular, we investigated the range of existence of and the transition between, the three states (phenotypes) in response to Grb2 and Gab1 - two downstream adaptors of c-MET. The results help to explain the regulation of metastatic cells by c-MET pathway and hence can contribute to the assessment of possible clinical interventions.
A low dose, highly selective and sensitive colorimetric and fluorescent probe for biothiols and its application in bioimaging
Authors: Zhang Qiong , Yu Dehuan , Ding Shuangshuang , Feng Guoqiang
Published: September 2014

A low dose, highly selective and sensitive colorimetric and fluorescent probe was reported for rapid detection of biothiols.
All the 2p-block elements in a molecule: experimental and theoretical studies of FBNCO and FBNCO+
Authors: Troiani Anna , Garzoli Stefania , Pepi Federico , Ricci Andreina , Rosi Marzio , Salvitti Chiara , de Petris Giulia
Published: September 2014

The new radical FBNCO and the new cation FBNCO+, containing all the p-block elements, have been identified in the gas phase, as species having a dissociation energy of 50 and 161 kcal mol−1, respectively.
Direct carboxylation of simple arenes with CO2 through a rhodium-catalyzed C–H bond activation
Authors: Suga Takuya , Mizuno Hajime , Takaya Jun , Iwasawa Nobuharu
Published: September 2014

Direct carboxylation of various simple arenes under atmospheric pressure of CO2 is achieved through a rhodium-catalyzed C–H bond activation without the assistance of a directing group.