bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cell-accurate optical mapping across the entire developing heart
Authors: Weber Michael , Scherf Nico , Kohl Peter , Huisken Jan
Published: May 2017

Organogenesis depends on orchestrated interactions between individual cells and morphogenically relevant cues at the tissue level. This is true for the heart, whose function critically relies on well-ordered communication between neighbouring cells, which is established and fine-tuned during development. For an integrated understanding of the development of structure and function, we need to move from isolated snap-shot observations of either microscopic or macroscopic parameters to simultaneous and, ideally continuous, cell-to-organ scale imaging. We introduce cell-accurate three-dimensional Ca2+-mapping of all cells in the entire heart during the looping stage in live embryonic zebrafish, using high-speed light sheet microscopy and tailored image processing and analysis. We show how myocardial region-specific heterogeneity in cell function emerges during early development and how structural patterning goes hand-in-hand with functional maturation of the entire heart. Our method opens the way to systematic, scale-bridging,in vivostudies of vertebrate organogenesis by cell-accurate structure-function mapping across entire organs.
Function of basal ganglia in tauG-guiding action
Authors: Lee David N. , Georgopoulos Apostolos P. , Pepping Gert-Jan
Published: May 2017

Nervous systems control purposeful movement, both within and outside the body, which is essential for the survival of an animal. The movement control functions of globus pallidus (GP), subthalamic nucleus (STN) and zona incerta (ZI) were analyzed in monkeys reaching for seen targets. Temporal profiles of the hand movements of monkeys and the synchronized flow of electrochemical energy through these basal ganglia were analyzed in terms of a theory of goal-directed movement. Theoretical and empirical analysis indicated: (i) the neural information for controlling movement is the relative-rate-of-change of flow of electrochemical energy in neurons rather than the flow itself; (ii) GP is involved in creatingprospectiveelectrochemical flow to guide movement; (iii) STN is involved in registering theperceptualelectrochemical flow monitoring the movement; (iv) ZI is involved in integrating the prospective and perceptual electrochemical flows to power the muscles and thence the movement. Possible implications for PD are discussed.
ANNOgesic: A Swiss army knife for the RNA-Seq based annotation of bacterial/archaeal genomes
Authors: Yu Sung-Huan , Vogel Jörg , Förstner Konrad U.
Published: May 2017

To understand the gene regulation of an organism of interest, a comprehensive genome annotation is essential. While some features, such as coding sequences, can be computationally predicted with high accuracy based purely on the genomic sequence, others, such as promoter elements or non-coding RNAs are harder to detect. RNA-Seq has proven to be an efficient method to identify these genomic features and to improve genome annotations. However, processing and integrating RNA-Seq data in order to generate high-resolution annotations is challenging, time consuming and requires numerous different steps. We have constructed a powerful and modular tool called ANNOgesic that provides the required analyses and simplifies RNA-Seq-based bacterial and archaeal genome annotation. It can integrate data from conventional RNA-Seq and dRNA-Seq, predicts and annotates numerous features, including small non-coding RNAs, with high precision. The software is available under an open source license (ISCL) athttps://pypi.org/project/ANNOgesic/.
Discovery of Drought-Responsive Transposable Element-Related Peach miRNAs
Authors: Pekmezci Asli Kurden , Karakülah Gökhan , Unver Turgay
Published: May 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small non-coding regulatory RNAs that suppress their specific target transcripts either by cleavage or inhibition of translation. Transposable element related miRNAs (TE-miRNA) have been subjected to various studies so far, and some of them were found to be involved in stress response in plants. Here, small RNA (sRNA) sequencing libraries generated from drought stress treated peach tissues were utilized to identify TE-miRNAs. Our computational analysis led to the identification of 63 TE-miRNAs, which were either locating nearby of any TE (TE-related), or overlapping with a TE (TE-derived). Furthermore, 13 out of 63 TE-miRNAs were designated as drought-responsive. Expression pattern of the identified drought-responsive TE-miRNAs are observed as tissue-specific manner, and their specific target transcripts are mostly related to transcription factors and growth-associated genes. Our findings suggest that miRNAs in relation with transposable elements might be key molecular players in the regulation of drought response.
Decoding the Influence of Anticipatory States on Visual Perception in the Presence of Temporal Distractors
Authors: Ede Freek Van , Chekroud Sammi R , Stokes Mark G , Nobre Anna C
Published: May 2017

While it has long been recognised that anticipatory states amplify early EEG responses to visual targets in humans, it remains unclear how such modulations relate to the actual content of the neural representation, and help prioritise targets among temporally competing distractor stimuli. Using multivariate orientation decoding of high temporal resolution EEG recordings, we first demonstrate that anticipation also increases the amount of stimulus-identity information contained in these early brain responses. By characterising the influence of temporally adjacent distractors on target identity decoding, we additionally reveal that anticipation does not just attenuate distractor interference on target representations but, instead, delay it. Enhanced target decoding and distractor resistance are further predicted by the attenuation of posterior 8-14 Hz alpha oscillations. These findings offer several novel insights into how anticipatory states shape neural representations in service of resolving sensory competition in time, and they highlight the potential of non-invasive multivariate electrophysiology to track cognitive influences on perception in tasks with rapidly changing displays.

Highlights

Anticipatory states help resolve visual competition in time

Anticipation enhances early target coding and delays distractor interference

Attenuated alpha oscillations also enhance target coding and distractor resistance

EEG decoding is a powerful tool for tracking percepts in rapidly changing displays

Significance statement

While the neural mechanisms by which anticipatory states help prioritise inputs that compete in space have received ample scientific investigation, the mechanisms by which the human brain accomplishes such prioritisation for inputs that compete in time remain less well understood. We used high temporal resolution EEG decoding to individuate (and track in time) neural information linked to visual target and distractors stimuli that were presented in close temporal proximity. This revealed that anticipatory states help resolve temporally competing percepts by a combination of enhanced target (but not distractor) coding as well as delayed interference on this target coding caused by temporally adjacent distractors – thus allocating a “protective temporal window” for high-fidelity target processing.
Identification of Genetically Important Individuals of the Rediscovered Floreana Galápagos Giant Tortoise (Chelonoidis elephantopus) Provide Founders for Species Restoration Program
Authors: Miller Joshua M. , Quinzin Maud C. , Poulakakis Nikos , Gibbs James P. , Beheregaray Luciano B. , Garrick Ryan C. , Russello Michael A. , Ciofi Claudio , Edwards Danielle L. , Hunter Elizabeth A. , Tapia Washington , Rueda Danny , Carrión Jorge , Valdivieso Andrés A. , Caccone Adalgisa
Published: May 2017

Species are being lost at an unprecedented rate due to human-driven environmental changes. The cases in which species declared extinct can be revived are rare. However, here we report that a remote volcano in the Galápagos Islands hosts many giant tortoises with high ancestry from a species previously declared as extinct:Chelonoidis elephantopusor the Floreana tortoise. Of 150 individuals with distinctive morphology sampled from the volcano, genetic analyses revealed that 65 hadC. elephantopusancestry and thirty-two were translocated from the volcano’s slopes to a captive breeding center. A genetically informed captive breeding program now being initiated will, over the next decades, returnC. elephantopus tortoises to Floreana Island to serve as engineers of the island’s ecosystems. Ironically, it was the haphazard translocations by mariners killing tortoises for food centuries ago that created the unique opportunity to revive this “lost” species today.
TauG-Guidance Of Neonatal Vocalizing
Authors: Lee David N , Obregon Mateo , Delafield-Butt Jonathan
Published: May 2017

A theory of action control (General Tau Theory) is applied to analyzing the vocalizations of human neonates. A central aspect of the theory, which is supported by experimental evidence across various actions and species, is that the trajectories of competent skilled actions follow a particular temporal pattern, which is described by the mathematical function, tauG. It was found that the acoustic waveform of vocalizations of healthy, full-term babies followed the tauG pattern with high precision. We conclude that healthy full-term neonates can be born with the ability to tauG-guide their vocalizations.
Aging as a defense strategy against parasites
Authors: Chin Richard Y.
Published: May 2017

The teleology of aging has been one of the more vexing and controversial question in biology. One potential evolutionary driver of programmed aging is selection pressure from parasites and other infectious organisms. While selection pressure from parasites and other infectious organisms have long been considered by many biologists to have led to the evolution of sexual reproduction, it has only rarely been considered as a potential driver for evolution of aging, a biological process that likely evolved contemporaneously with sexual reproduction. Here I describe stochastic simulations of host and parasite populations with senescence as an independent variable. The results show that populations with more rapid senescence bear lower parasite loads and oscillate more quickly through alternate phenotypes with differential resistance against parasites. I conclude that programmed aging and death may promote host evasion of parasites in a co-evolutionary competition against parasites.
Single-shot full strain tensor determination with microbeam X-ray Laue diffraction and a two-dimensional energy-dispersive detector
Authors: Abboud A. , Kirchlechner C. , Keckes J. , Conka Nurdan T. , Send S. , Micha J. S. , Ulrich O. , Hartmann R. , Strüder L. , Pietsch U.
Published: May 2017

The full strain and stress tensor determination in a triaxially stressed single crystal using X-ray diffraction requires a series of lattice spacing measurements at different crystal orientations. This can be achieved using a tunable X-ray source. This article reports on a novel experimental procedure for single-shot full strain tensor determination using polychromatic synchrotron radiation with an energy range from 5 to 23 keV. Microbeam X-ray Laue diffraction patterns were collected from a copper micro-bending beam along the central axis (centroid of the cross section). Taking advantage of a two-dimensional energy-dispersive X-ray detector (pnCCD), the position and energy of the collected Laue spots were measured for multiple positions on the sample, allowing the measurement of variations in the local microstructure. At the same time, both the deviatoric and hydrostatic components of the elastic strain and stress tensors were calculated.
The design and value of “early adopter” low-energy houses
Authors: Burke Maria
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline an early adopter “low energy” domestic dwelling, one of the social houses built by a collaboration between a university, the local council. The origins of this project are from the early days of interest in sustainable housing, the 1970s. The dwellings were innovative and built to what became known as “the Salford design” which performed to unusual specifications, using approximately 75 per cent less energy than the UK average for space heating and over 40 per cent less than for houses built to what were then the standard building regulations.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative and interpretative stance was deemed to be the most appropriate. Within that lens, interviews were chosen as the primary research instrument.

Findings

A marked feature of the results is the variation in energy consumption by different households. A Salford-designed house could be habitable throughout the year without any space heating at all, comfortable at 10 per cent and very comfortable at 25 per cent of normal consumption.

Originality/value

As there continues to be interest and commitment to reducing energy – not just from the United Kingdom but also on a worldwide scale – the United Nations Conference of the Parties known as COP 22 (2016) met in Morocco to take forward many of the initiatives outlined in the Paris Agreement 2015. It is of interest, then, that the latest set of interviews showed that the houses built to the innovative and original 1970s’ Salford design principles, protected by highly insulated well-sealed envelopes, are even presently functioning at a relatively low energy threshold.
Opportunity management in large projects: a case study of an infrastructure alliance project
Authors: Hietajärvi Anna-Maija , Aaltonen Kirsi , Haapasalo Harri
Published: May 2017

Purpose

This study aims to explore how to identify and manage opportunities successfully in a large multi-organizational infrastructure project. Large projects struggle with exploiting and capturing opportunities because of the lack of practices that support active and continuous opportunity management over the project lifecycle in inter-organizational project networks.

Design/methodology/approach

This study provides empirical evidence of a successful opportunity management process based on an investigation of an infrastructure alliance project. The adopted research approach is an inductive case study.

Findings

By analyzing an infrastructure alliance project, this paper identifies key activities of opportunity management and furthermore, discusses the enablers of active and continuous opportunity management.

Practical implications

This study supports practitioners by providing knowledge about the possibilities and activities that could be deployed during the project lifecycle to improve opportunity management process and about the enablers – factors that facilitate alliance partners’ capabilities to manage opportunities.

Originality/value

There is limited empirical research on the practices of opportunity management that support continuous, active opportunity management in inter-organizational project contexts, although multidisciplinary project networks have possibilities for taking advantage of opportunities that emerge over the project lifecycle.
Business apprenticeship: a viable business model in management education
Authors: Daly Peter
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to position the business apprenticeship model (a work-based learning model where student managers alternate between academic and workplace learning) at a political, institutional and student level in order to explain how it fits within the French business education landscape and how it is considered as a viable business model in management education.

Design/methodology/approach

Business apprenticeship is analysed through the prism of Osterwalder and Pigneur’s (2010) Business Model Canvas to evaluate the nine dimensions of the business model: customer segments, value proposition, customer channels, customer relationships, revenue streams, key resources, key activities, key partners and cost structure.

Findings

Two major advantages of the model are identified, namely, the potential for widening participation and affordability and three concerns are outlined: the corporate vision of the apprentice, the recent governmental reforms on funding this model, and the potential synergies between theory and practice.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is useful for all those who wish to develop an apprenticeship track within their business schools and for employers who are considering the development of apprenticeship partnerships with business schools.

Originality/value

This paper provides insight into business apprenticeship as a work-based learning model.
Recordkeeping and research data management: a review of perspectives
Authors: Grant Rebecca
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore a range of perspectives on the relationship between research data and records and between recordkeeping and research data management.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper discusses literature in the field of research data management as part of preliminary work for the author’s doctoral research on the topic. The literature included in the review reflects contemporary and historical perspectives on the management and preservation of research data.

Findings

Preliminary findings indicate that records professionals have been involved in the management and preservation of research data since the early twentieth century. In the literature, research data is described as comparable to records, and records professionals are widely acknowledged to have skills and expertise which are applicable to research data management. Records professionals are one of a number of professions addressing research data management. However, they are not currently considered to be leaders in research data management practice.

Originality/value

Research data management is an emerging challenge as stakeholders in the research lifecycle increasingly mandate the publication of open, transparent research. Recent developments such as the publication of the OCLC report “The Archival Advantage: Integrating Archival Expertise into Management of Born-digital Library Materials”, and the creation of the Research Data Alliance Interest Group Archives and Records Professionals for Research Data indicates that research data is, or can be, within the remit of records professionals. This paper represents a snapshot of contemporary and historical attitudes towards research data and recordkeeping and thus contributes to this emerging area of discussion.
Knowledge management in higher education institutions: enablers and barriers in Mauritius
Authors: Veer Ramjeawon Poonam , Rowley Jennifer
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to contribute to research on knowledge management in higher education institutions (HEIs), by studying the enablers and barriers to knowledge management in a country with a developing higher education sector, Mauritius.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with senior staff in the main public and private HEIs in Mauritius. Questions focused on knowledge management, including relevant barriers and enabling factors to knowledge creation, knowledge sharing and knowledge transfer.

Findings

Although participants were able to discuss knowledge management, none of the universities had a knowledge management strategy. Moreover, more barriers than enablers to knowledge management were identified. Barriers included: a lack of policies and reward mechanisms, resources, data, funding and time for research, coupled with frequent leadership changes, a lack of a knowledge-sharing culture and research repositories and weak industry–academia linkages. Enablers were perceived to be: qualified and experienced academic staff in public HEIs, information technology (IT) infrastructure and library/digital library and some incentives for knowledge creation and transfer.

Originality/value

Previous research on knowledge management in universities has focused on countries with a relatively well-developed higher education sector. This research contributes by focusing on the perceived barriers and enablers to knowledge management in a country with a small and developing higher education sector.
What it takes to be a superior college president
Authors: Friedman Hershey Harry , Kass-Shraibman Frimette
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine established leadership paradigms in the context of institutions of higher education. The old ways of running a college, which might have worked several decades ago, no longer work in the age of flux characterized by super-fast breakthroughs due to technology and the internet. Organizational change is especially difficult in academe where many faculty are tenured and satisfied with the status quo.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examines and synthesizes the relevant literature in leadership and higher education administration, focusing on critical issues and recommendations to ensure the long-term viability and relevance of colleges and universities. It also describes meaningful metrics that should be monitored by university leaders to strengthen their institutions.

Findings

Some of the findings are as follows: the old ways of running an institution of higher learning need to be overhauled; colleges and universities need leaders who can transform their institutions into learning organizations where knowledge is shared; and leaders must have the ability to tap into their organization’s intellectual capital and creativity. In addition, several new metrics are needed for evaluating the leadership of a college of university, including vision, employee engagement, student satisfaction and image/reputation.

Originality/value

This study provides an original approach to reform colleges and universities and enable them to thrive in the age of chaos and disruption.
Effects of breeder turnover and harvest on group composition and recruitment in a social carnivore
Authors: Ausband David E. , Mitchell Michael S. , Waits Lisette P.
Published: May 2017

Breeder turnover can influence population growth in social carnivores through changes to group size, composition and recruitment.

Studies that possess detailed group composition data that can provide insights about the effects of breeder turnover on groups have generally been conducted on species that are not subject to recurrent annual human harvest. We wanted to know how breeder turnover affects group composition and how harvest, in turn, affects breeder turnover in cooperatively breeding grey wolves (Canis lupus Linnaeus 1758).

We used noninvasive genetic sampling at wolf rendezvous sites to construct pedigrees and estimate recruitment in groups of wolves before and after harvest in Idaho, USA.

Turnover of breeding females increased polygamy and potential recruits per group by providing breeding opportunities for subordinates although resultant group size was unaffected 1 year after the turnover. Breeder turnover had no effect on the number of nonbreeding helpers per group. After breeding male turnover, fewer female pups were recruited in the new males’ litters. Harvest had no effect on the frequency of breeder turnover.

We found that breeder turnover led to shifts in the reproductive hierarchies within groups and the resulting changes to group composition were quite variable and depended on the sex of the breeder lost. We hypothesize that nonbreeding females direct help away from non‐kin female pups to preserve future breeding opportunities for themselves. Breeder turnover had marked effects on the breeding opportunities of subordinates and the number and sex ratios of subsequent litters of pups. Seemingly subtle changes to groups, such as the loss of one individual, can greatly affect group composition, genetic content, and short‐term population growth when the individual lost is a breeder.
Parasite–microbiota interactions potentially affect intestinal communities in wild mammals
Authors: Aivelo Tuomas , Norberg Anna
Published: May 2017

Detecting interaction between species is notoriously difficult, and disentangling species associations in host‐related gut communities is especially challenging. Nevertheless, due to contemporary methods, including metabarcoding and 16S sequencing, collecting observational data on community composition has become easier and much more common.

We studied the previously collected datasets of intestinal bacterial microbiota and parasite compositions within longitudinally followed mouse lemurs by analysing the potential interactions with diversity metrics and novel joint species distribution modelling.

Both methods showed statistical association between certain parasite species and bacterial microbiota composition. Unicellular Eimeria sp. had an effect on diversity of gut microbiota. The cestode Hymenolepis diminuta had negative associations with several bacterial orders, whereas closely related species Hymenolepis nana had positive associations with several bacterial orders.

Our results reveal potential interactions between some, but not all, intestinal parasites and gut bacterial microbiota. Host variables contributed over half of the total variation explained with the model, and sex was the most important single host variable; especially with microbiota, there were sex‐related differences in the community composition.

This study shows how joint species distribution modelling can incorporate both within‐host dynamics of several taxa and host characteristics to model potential interactions in intestinal community. These results provide new hypothesis for interactions between and among parasites and bacterial microbiota to be tested further with experimental studies.
Oncogenic role of neurotensin and neurotensin receptors in various cancers
Authors: Ouyang Qing , Zhou Ji , Yang Wei , Cui Hongjuan , Xu Minhui , Yi Liang
Published: May 2017

Neurotensin (NTS) has long been recognized as a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator in the central nervous system and as an endocrine agent in the periphery via actions mediated through neurotensin receptors (NTSRs). Many studies support a role for NTS in the endocrine, autocrine and paracrine growth stimulation of cancer, with oncogenic actions described for NTS in different types of cancers and cancer cell lines at each step of cancer progression, ranging from tumour growth and survival to metastatic spread. The mechanisms underlying the effects of the NTS/NTSR system in cell proliferation, migration and invasion, as well as the anti‐apoptotic effects of this system, have been elucidated in different types of cancers, and include mitogen‐activated protein kinases, phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase and RhoGTPases. The present mini review summarizes recent findings relating to the oncogenic function of the NTS/NTSR system.
Moderate‐to‐high normal levels of thyrotropin is a risk factor for urinary incontinence and an unsuitable quality of life in women over 65 years
Authors: Cuevas‐Romero Estela , Sánchez‐Cardiel Angélica , Zamora‐Gallegos Angélica M. , Cruz‐Lumbreras Rosalía , Corona‐Quintanilla Dora L. , Castelán Francisco , Martínez‐Gómez Margarita
Published: May 2017

The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between normal serum concentrations of thyrotropin (TSH) and urinary incontinence (IU), urinary infections, and quality of life in old women. Euthyroid post‐menopausal women without sarcopenia, estrogen replacement, emotional illness, and/or cancer were enrolled as participants. Anthropometric indicators, serum glucose and estradiol, and thyroid profile were measured. Sociodemographic, clinical, physical activity, and quality of life (SF‐36) surveys were applied. One‐hour pad test and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form (ICIQ‐SF) were used to determineUI. Urinalysis was also done. In agreement with results from the pad test (cut‐off point ≥1.4 g), theICIQ‐SFreveled approximately 50% of incontinent women. A high percentage of women had moderate–high bacteriuria and urinary infections. Logistic regression analysis showed that age is a risk factor for bothUIand urinary infection. Diabetes, number of pregnancies or childbirths, urinary infections, and bacteriuria did not influence the presence ofUI. To allocate women into four groups according to their age (<65 or ≥65 years old) andTSHconcentrations (0.3‐1.9 or 2‐10 μUI/mL), we found that moderate‐to‐high normal levels ofTSHis a risk factor forUIand a worse quality of life in the oldest women. Our results highlight the profit of measuringTSHconcentrations in post‐menopausal women.
Towards a Theory of Third‐Best
Authors: Ng Yew‐Kwang
Published: May 2017

The theory of second best (Lipsey & Lancaster ) shows that the presence of irremovable distortions renders the second‐best conditions exceedingly complicated; by satisfying some optimality conditions, an improvement is not ensured. However, the complicated second‐best rules are neither optimal nor feasible if informational and administrative costs are taken into account. The simple first‐best rules are the optimal feasible in an important class of situations (Informational Poverty), implying that analyses based on first‐best assumptions are still relevant for practical policy‐making. This is so because, with a reasonable concavity assumption, staying with the first‐best rules maximises expected benefit. With more (but not perfect) information, third‐best policies are appropriate. Some informal illustrative applications of this third‐best theory are provided. In particular, average‐cost pricing for public utilities may not be far from the third‐best optimum and the necessity to raise government revenue through non‐lump‐sum taxes need not impose any real distortion.
Generality Versus Context Specificity: First, Second and Third Best in Theory and Policy
Authors: Lipsey Richard G.
Published: May 2017

Second‐best theory established that a policy's effect on community welfare (or any other objective function) varies with its specific context. In contrast, Ng argues that fulfilling first‐best conditions piecemeal is optimal whenever the policy‐maker's information is insufficient to determine the direction of the change in the variable under consideration that will raise welfare, irrespective of the conditions in that market. It is argued in the present paper: (i) that Ng's own assumptions imply not that first‐best conditions should be established under these circumstances, but that the status quo should be maintained; (ii) that when Ng's key assumption is altered to be empirically relevant, all policy decisions become fully context‐specific; and (iii) that Woo's argument for accepting Ng's conclusions in spite of point (ii) is incorrect. The conclusion discusses valid uses of piecemeal welfare theory in spite of second best.
Theory of Third Best: How to Interpret and Apply
Authors: Ng Yew‐Kwang
Published: May 2017

Six decades after the formulation of his (Lipsey & Lancaster, ) celebrated general theory of the second best, Richard Lipsey has written on the important issue of second‐best and third‐best theories. In particular, he criticizes the theory of third best (see Section 3 below). This paper explains our agreements and differences and reaches the following conclusions. First, several arguments provided do not invalidate the theory of third best, at least if correctly interpreted and applied. We may have useful piecemeal welfare policies after all, if appropriately used. Second, I did not and do not attempt to refute the general result of second‐best theory; both the second‐best and third‐best theories remain valid, if properly interpreted. Third, the usefulness of some general results (properly interpreted and used) and the importance of additional information (if available) on specific context need not be an either–or choice (Section 1). Finally, the third‐best theory is not completely non‐context specific; the distinction between cases of Informational Poverty and Scarcity itself depends on the context. However, it also provides some general guides useful for making piecemeal policies in different contexts (Sections 3 and 4).
Impact of an Individual Mandate and Other Health Reforms on Dependent Coverage for Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Wisk Lauren E. , Finkelstein Jonathan A. , Toomey Sara L. , Sawicki Gregory S. , Schuster Mark A. , Galbraith Alison A.
Published: May 2017

Objective

To determine the effect of state‐level dependent coverage expansion (DCE) with and without other state health reforms on exit from dependent coverage for adolescents and young adults (AYA).

Data Sources

Administrative longitudinal data for 131,542 privately insured AYA in Massachusetts (DCE with other reforms) versus Maine and New Hampshire (DCE without other reforms) across three periods: prereform (1/00–12/06), poststate reform (1/07–9/10), and postfederal reform (10/10–12/12).

Study Design

A difference‐in‐differences estimator was used to determine the rate of exit from dependent coverage, age at exit from dependent coverage, and re‐uptake of dependent coverage among AYA in states with comprehensive reforms versus DCE only.

Principal Findings

Implementation of DCE with other reforms was significantly associated with a 23 percent reduction in exit from dependent coverage among AYA compared to the reduction observed for DCE alone. Additionally, comprehensive reforms were associated with over two additional years of dependent coverage for the average AYA and a 33 percent increase in the odds of regaining dependent coverage after a prior loss.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that an individual mandate and other reforms may enhance the effect of DCE in preventing loss of coverage among AYA.
Does High‐Quality Auditing Mitigate or Encourage Private Information Collection?
Authors: Chen Yangyang , Sadique Shibley , Srinidhi Bin , Veeraraghavan Madhu
Published: May 2017

The finance literature offers two competing possibilities on how investors respond to the quality of public financial statements in their pricing decisions. They could collect either (i) more private information to benefit from lower information collection cost, or (ii) less private information because of lower incremental benefits. In this paper, we use the audit setting to examine which possibility prevails. Using the idiosyncratic return volatility as a proxy for firm‐specific information, we show in a sample of 51,559 firm‐year observations for 8,261 U.S. firms spanning the period of 2000–2010 that firms audited by higher‐quality auditors exhibit lower average idiosyncratic return volatility but a higher concentration of it at the time of earnings announcements. Our findings are consistent with the argument that investors reduce private information collection in response to higher audit quality. Our findings are robust to alternative measures of audit quality and idiosyncratic return volatility.
Hybrid approach using laparoscopy and transanal minimally invasive surgery to treat rectal cancer with invasion to the seminal vesicles
Authors: Yamaguchi Takuya , Imai Minoru , Uematsu Dai
Published: May 2017

We treated a 64‐year‐old man for rectal cancer with direct invasion to the seminal vesicles and no distant metastases by complete resection with laparoscopy and transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS). We inserted the TAMIS device into the anal canal to above the anorectal ring and dissected to prostate level. High ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery and vein was performed by standard medial laparoscopy. The sigmoid and descending colon were mobilized, and in the postrectal space, we dissected to the space made by TAMIS. The membranous peritoneum was dissected on both sides of the rectum to the cul de sac. The peritoneum was dissected anterolaterally to reveal the seminal ducts, which were ligated and dissected on both sides. The seminal vesicles were dissected from the posterior wall of the bladder to the prostate level. The rectal specimen was now fully mobilized. Lower rectal resection with combined laparoscopy and TAMIS provided a better surgical plane than standard laparoscopy.
Roaming of dogs in remote Indigenous communities in northern Australia and potential interaction between community and wild dogs
Authors: Bombara C , Dürr S , Gongora J , Ward MP
Published: May 2017

Objective

To investigate the roaming of Indigenous community dogs and potential interaction with wild dogs and dingoes.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey and longitudinal follow‐up study.

Methods

Six remote Indigenous communities in Cape York Peninsula and Arnhem Land in northern Australia were selected. Hair samples were collected from community dogs and microsatellite DNA analyses were used to determine hybrid (>10% dingo DNA) status. Dogs were fitted with GPS collars and home range (ha) was estimated during monitoring periods of up to 3 days.

Results

In Cape York Peninsula, 6% of the 35 dogs sampled were dingo hybrids, whereas in Arnhem Land 41% of the 29 dogs sampled were hybrids. The median extended home range was estimated to be 4.54 ha (interquartile range, 3.40 − 7.71). Seven community dogs were identified with an estimated home range > 20 ha and home ranges included the bushland surrounding communities. No significant difference in home ranges was detected between hybrid and non‐hybrid dogs.

Conclusions

Study results provide some evidence (dingo hybridisation, bushland forays) of the potential interaction between domestic and wild dogs in northern Australia. The nature of this interaction needs further investigation to determine its role in disease transmission; for example, in the case of a rabies incursion in this region.
A pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic model predicting tumour growth inhibition after intermittent administration with the mTOR kinase inhibitor AZD8055
Authors: Yates James W T , Holt Sarah V , Logie Armelle , Payne Kirsty , Woods Karen , Wilkinson Robert W , Davies Barry R , Guichard Sylvie M
Published: May 2017

Background and Purpose

AZD8055 is a potent orally available mTOR kinase inhibitor with in vitro and in vivo antitumour activity against a range of tumour types. Preclinical studies showed that AZD8055 induced a dose‐dependent pharmacodynamic effect in xenograft models in vivo, but a lack of understanding of the relative contributions of the maximum inhibition of the biomarkers and the duration of inhibition to the antitumour effect, limited the rational design of experiments to optimize the dose and schedules of treatment.

Experimental Approach

In this study, a mathematical modelling approach was developed to relate pharmacodynamics and antitumour activity using preclinical data generated in mice bearing U87‐MG xenografts.

Key Results

Refinement and validation of the model was carried out in a panel of additional human tumour xenograft models with different growth rates and different sensitivity to AZD8055 (from partial growth inhibition to regression). Finally, the model was applied to accurately predict the efficacy of high, intermittent dosing schedules of AZD8055.

Conclusions and Implications

Overall, this new model linking pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamic biomarkers and efficacy across several tumour xenografts with different sensitivity to AZD8055 was able to identify the optimal dose and route of administration to maximize the antitumour efficacy in preclinical models and its potential for translation into man.
Associations Between Sexting Behaviors and Sexual Behaviors Among Mobile Phone‐Owning Teens in Los Angeles
Authors: Rice Eric , Craddock Jaih , Hemler Mary , Rusow Joshua , Plant Aaron , Montoya Jorge , Kordic Timothy
Published: May 2017

The implications of teen sexting for healthy development continue to concern parents, academics, and the general public. Using a probability sample of high school students (N = 1,208) aged 12–18, the prevalence of sexting, associations with sexting, and associations between sexing and sexual activity were assessed. Seventeen percent both sent and received sexts, and 24% only received sexts. Sending and receiving sexts were positively associated with each other and both behaviors were associated with having peers who sext. Lifetime reports of sexual intercourse, anal sex, oral sex, and recent unprotected sex were positively associated with reports of texting 300 or more times per day, only receiving sexts, and both sending and receiving sexts.
Characteristics and outcomes of patients with profound hyponatraemia due to primary polydipsia
Authors: Sailer Clara O. , Winzeler Bettina , Nigro Nicole , Suter‐Widmer Isabelle , Arici Birsen , Bally Martina , Schuetz Philipp , Mueller Beat , Christ‐Crain Mirjam
Published: May 2017

Objective

Hyponatraemia due to excessive fluid intake (ie primary polydipsia [PP]) is common. It may culminate in profound hyponatraemia—carrying considerable risk of morbidity. However, data on patients with PP leading to hyponatraemia are lacking. Herein, we describe the characteristics of polydiptic patients hospitalized with profound hyponatraemia and assess 1‐year outcomes.

Design

Substudy of the prospective observational Co‐MED Study.

Patients

Patients with an episode of profound hyponatraemia (≤125 mmol/L) due to PP in the medical emergency were eligible and classified into psychogenic polydipsia (PsyP), dipsogenic polydipsia (DiP) and beer potomania (BP).

Measurements

Symptoms, laboratory findings and factors contributing to hyponatraemia (comorbidities, medication and liquid intake) were assessed. A 1‐year follow‐up was performed to evaluate recurrence of hyponatraemia, readmission rate and mortality.

Results

Twenty‐three patients were included (median age 56 years [IQR 50‐65], 74% female), seven had PsyP, eight had DiP and eight had BP. Median serum sodium of all patients was 121 mmol/L (IQR 114‐123), median urine osmolality 167 mmol/L (IQR 105‐184) and median copeptin 3.6 mmol/L (IQR 1.9‐5.5). Psychiatric diagnoses, particularly dependency disorder (43%) and depression (35%), were highly prevalent. Factors provoking hyponatraemia were found in all patients (eg acute water load, medication, stress).

During the follow‐up period, 67% of patients were readmitted, 52% of these with rehyponatraemia, and three patients (38%) with BP died.

Conclusion

Patients with PP are more likely to be female and to have addictive and affective disorders. Given the high recurrence, rehospitalization and mortality rate, careful monitoring and long‐term follow‐up including controls of serum sodium, education and behavioural therapy are needed.
CPU–GPU Parallel Framework for Real‐Time Interactive Cutting of Adaptive Octree‐Based Deformable Objects
Authors: Jia Shiyu , Zhang Weizhong , Yu Xiaokang , Pan Zhenkuan
Published: May 2017

A software framework taking advantage of parallel processing capabilities of CPUs and GPUs is designed for the real‐time interactive cutting simulation of deformable objects. Deformable objects are modelled as voxels connected by links. The voxels are embedded in an octree mesh used for deformation. Cutting is performed by disconnecting links swept by the cutting tool and then adaptively refining octree elements near the cutting tool trajectory. A surface mesh used for visual display is reconstructed from disconnected links using the dual contour method. Spatial hashing of the octree mesh and topology‐aware interpolation of distance field are used for collision. Our framework uses a novel GPU implementation for inter‐object collision and object self collision, while tool‐object collision, cutting and deformation are assigned to CPU, using multiple threads whenever possible. A novel method that splits cutting operations into four independent tasks running in parallel is designed. Our framework also performs data transfers between CPU and GPU simultaneously with other tasks to reduce their impact on performances. Simulation tests show that when compared to three‐threaded CPU implementations, our GPU accelerated collision is 53–160% faster; and the overall simulation frame rate is 47–98% faster.
Parental pre‐pregnancy obesity and the risk of offspring weight and body mass index change from childhood to adulthood
Authors: Zalbahar N. , Najman J. , McIntyre H. D. , Mamun A.
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this study was to examine the association of parental pre‐pregnancy weight and body mass index (BMI) on offspring weight and BMI change from childhood to adulthood.

We analysed BMI data from a subsample of parents (n = 1494) from the Mater‐University of Queensland Study of Pregnancy cohort that started in the early 1980s in Brisbane, Australia: data were collected at pre‐pregnancy and then also for offspring at 5, 14 and 21‐year follow‐ups. Multiple regression for continuous outcomes and multinomial regression for categorical outcomes were performed.

A total of 14.7% of offspring experienced BMI change from normal at 5 years to overweight or obese (OW/OB) at 14 years, 15.3% of normal at 14 years to OW/OB at 21 years and 22.8% from normal at 5 years to OW/OB at 21 years. Overall, the strength of the association of parental BMI with offspring BMI was stronger as offspring become older. Pre‐pregnancy parental BMI differentially impacts offspring OW/OB across the life course. For every unit increase in paternal and maternal BMI z‐score, offspring BMI z‐score increased, on average, by between 0.15% (kg m−2) and 0.24% (kg m−2) throughout all three stages of life when both parents were OW/OB; these associations were stronger than with one parent.

Parental pre‐pregnancy BMI and OW/OB is a strong predictor of offspring weight and BMI change from early life to adulthood.
The influence of pubertal maturation on antisaccade performance
Authors: Ordaz Sarah J. , Fritz Barbara L. , Forbes Erika E. , Luna Beatriz
Published: May 2017

Adolescence is a period characterized by continued improvements in inhibitory control, and this persisting immaturity is believed to interact with affective/motivational behavior to generate the impulsive and risk‐taking behavior evidenced at this time. Puberty is a central event of adolescence that has been shown to influence affective/motivational behavior. However, despite plausible mechanisms by which puberty might influence inhibitory control, researchers have yet to test this possibility rigorously. Thus, we designed a study to examine the unique role of pubertal maturation, independent of age, in the development of inhibitory control. In order to minimize age‐related variability while maximizing pubertal status variability, we recruited 78 participants (34 F) whose ages narrowly spanned the mean age of gonadarche for each sex (F: ages 11–13, M: ages 12–14). Two complementary measures were used to assess pubertal status: (1) circulating blood serum testosterone and estradiol levels reflecting internal manifestations of pubertal maturation, and (2) Tanner staging by a trained nurse reflecting pubertal maturation's external manifestations. Inhibitory control was assessed using the antisaccade task, and findings were adjusted for the potential effect of age. Results revealed no association between testosterone levels and error rates or response latencies in either sex. In girls, estradiol levels were not associated with error rates, but were associated with faster response latencies. There was similarly no association between Tanner status and error rates, although girls in more advanced pubertal stages showed faster response latencies. Power analyses indicate that findings of a lack of association did not reflect limited statistical power. Thus, in a study designed to isolate the effects of pubertal maturation independent of age, both external and internal indices of pubertal maturation converged to indicate that age‐related improvements in cold antisaccade performance are independent of pubertal maturation.