bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Cannabinoid 2 Receptor-Mediated Immune Modulation in Sepsis
Authors: Sardinha J. , Kelly M. E. M. , Zhou J. , Lehmann C.
Published: April 2014

Sepsis is a complex condition that results from a dysregulated immune system in response to a systemic infection. Current treatments lack effectiveness in reducing the incidence and mortality associated with this disease. The endocannabinoid system offers great promise in managing sepsis pathogenesis due to its unique characteristics. The present study explored the effect of modulating the CB2receptor pathway in an acute sepsis mouse model. Endotoxemia was induced by intravenous injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice and intestinal microcirculation was assessed through intravital microscopy. We found that HU308 (CB2receptor agonist) reduced the number of adherent leukocytes in submucosal venules but did not restore muscular and mucosal villi FCD in endotoxemic mice. AM630 (CB2receptor antagonist) maintained the level of adherent leukocytes induced by LPS but further reduced muscular and mucosal villi FCD. URB597 (FAAH inhibitor) and JZL184 (MAGL inhibitor) both reduced the number of adherent leukocytes in submucosal venules but did not restore the mucosal villi FCD. Using various compounds we have shown different mechanisms of activating CB2receptors to reduce leukocyte endothelial interactions in order to prevent further inflammatory damage during sepsis.
Catalytic Transformation of Fructose and Sucrose to HMF with Proline-Derived Ionic Liquids under Mild Conditions
Authors: Li Hu , Yang Song
Published: March 2014

L-Proline derived ionic liquids (ILs) used as both solvent and catalyst were efficient for transformation of fructose and sucrose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) in the presence of water. Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize fructose dehydration process, and a maximum HMF yield of 73.6% could be obtained at 90°C after 50 min. The recycling of the IL exhibited an almost constant activity during five successive trials, and a possible reaction mechanism for the dehydration of fructose to HMF was proposed.
Evaluation of Biochemical, Haematological, and Histopathological Responses and Recovery Ability of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpioL.) after Acute Exposure to Atrazine Herbicide
Authors: Blahova Jana , Modra Helena , Sevcikova Marie , Marsalek Petr , Zelnickova Lenka , Skoric Misa , Svobodova Zdenka
Published: March 2014

The aim of study was to evaluate the effect of atrazine exposure (5, 15, 20, and 30 mg·L−1) on common carp and the ability of regeneration. During 96 h exposure we observed abnormal behavior in fish exposed to 20 and 30 mg·L−1. Mortality and histological alterations were noticed only in the group exposed to 30 mg·L−1. Most experimental groups showed significantly (P<0.05) lower values of haemoglobin, haematocrit, leukocyte, and lymphocyte and significantly higher values of monocytes, segmented and band neutrophile granulocytes, and also metamyelocytes and myelocytes. A significantly lower (P<0.05) leukocyte count was also recorded in experimental groups (5 and 15 mg·L−1) after recovery period. Statistically significant (P<0.05) alterations in glucose, total protein, lactate, phosphorus, calcium, and biopterin as well as in activities of ALT, AST, ALP, and LDH were found in most experimental groups. These changes were most apparent in the groups exposed to 20 and 30 mg·L−1. Most of the indices were found to be restored after the 7-day recovery period with the exception of LDH, ALT, and lactate in the group exposed to 15 mg·L−1. Our results showed that atrazine exposure had a profound negative influence on selected indices and also on histological changes of common carp.
Multipliers on Generalized Mixed Norm Sequence Spaces
Authors: Blasco Oscar , Zaragoza-Berzosa Carme
Published: April 2014

Given1≤p,q≤∞and sequences of integers(nk)kand(nk′)ksuch thatnk≤nk′≤nk+1, the generalized mixed norm spaceℓℐ(p,q)is defined as those sequences(aj)jsuch that((∑j∈Ik‍|aj|p)1/p)k∈ℓqwhereIk={j∈ℕ0 s.t. nk≤j<nk′},k∈ℕ0. The necessary and sufficient conditions for a sequenceλ=(λj)jto belong to the space of multipliers(ℓℐ(r,s),ℓ𝒥(u,v)), for different sequencesℐand𝒥of intervals inℕ0, are determined.
DecentralizedH∞Control for Uncertain Interconnected Systems of Neutral Type via Dynamic Output Feedback
Authors: Hu Heli , Zhao Dan
Published: March 2014

The design of the dynamic output feedbackH∞control for uncertain interconnected systems of neutral type is investigated. In the framework of Lyapunov stability theory, a mathematical technique dealing with the nonlinearity on certain matrix variables is developed to obtain the solvability conditions for the anticipated controller. Based on the corresponding LMIs, the anticipated gains for dynamic output feedback can be achieved by solving some algebraic equations. Also, the norm of the transfer function from the disturbance input to the controlled output is less than the given index. A numerical example and the simulation results are given to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Inflammation-Induced NFATc1–STAT3 Transcription Complex Promotes Pancreatic Cancer Initiation by KrasG12D
Authors: Baumgart Sandra , Chen Nai-Ming , Siveke Jens T. , König Alexander , Zhang Jin-San , Singh Shiv K. , Wolf Elmar , Bartkuhn Marek , Esposito Irene , Heßmann Elisabeth , Reinecke Johanna , Nikorowitsch Julius , Brunner Marius , Singh Garima , Fernandez-Zapico Martin E. , Smyrk Thomas , Bamlet William R. , Eilers Martin , Neesse Albrecht , Gress Thomas M. , Billadeau Daniel D. , Tuveson David , Urrutia Raul , Ellenrieder Volker
Published: April 2014

Cancer-associated inflammation is a molecular key feature in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Oncogenic KRAS in conjunction with persistent inflammation is known to accelerate carcinogenesis, although the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here, we outline a novel pathway whereby the transcription factors NFATc1 and STAT3 cooperate in pancreatic epithelial cells to promote KrasG12D-driven carcinogenesis. NFATc1 activation is induced by inflammation and itself accelerates inflammation-induced carcinogenesis in KrasG12D mice, whereas genetic or pharmacologic ablation of NFATc1 attenuates this effect. Mechanistically, NFATc1 complexes with STAT3 for enhancer–promoter communications at jointly regulated genes involved in oncogenesis, for example, Cyclin, EGFR and WNT family members. The NFATc1–STAT3 cooperativity is operative in pancreatitis-mediated carcinogenesis as well as in established human pancreatic cancer. Together, these studies unravel new mechanisms of inflammatory-driven pancreatic carcinogenesis and suggest beneficial effects of chemopreventive strategies using drugs that are currently available for targeting these factors in clinical trials.

Significance: Our study points to the existence of an oncogenic NFATc1–STAT3 cooperativity that mechanistically links inflammation with pancreatic cancer initiation and progression. Because NFATc1–STAT3 nucleoprotein complexes control the expression of gene networks at the intersection of inflammation and cancer, our study has significant relevance for potentially managing pancreatic cancer and other inflammatory-driven malignancies. Cancer Discov; 4(6); 688–701. ©2014 AACR.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 621
ERK-Dependent Downregulation of the Atypical Chemokine Receptor D6 Drives Tumor Aggressiveness in Kaposi Sarcoma
Authors: Savino Benedetta , Caronni Nicoletta , Anselmo Achille , Pasqualini Fabio , Borroni Elena Monica , Basso Gianluca , Celesti Giuseppe , Laghi Luigi , Tourlaki Athanasia , Boneschi Vinicio , Brambilla Lucia , Nebuloni Manuela , Vago Gianluca , Mantovani Alberto , Locati Massimo , Bonecchi Raffaella
Published: April 2014

D6 is an atypical chemokine receptor acting as a decoy and scavenger for inflammatory CC chemokines expressed in lymphatic endothelial cells. Here, we report that D6 is expressed in Kaposi sarcoma (KS), a tumor ontogenetically related to the lymphatic endothelium. Both in human tumors and in an experimental model, D6 expression levels were inversely correlated with tumor aggressiveness and increased infiltration of proangiogenic macrophages. Inhibition of monocyte recruitment reduced the growth of tumors, while adoptive transfer of wild-type, but not CCR2−/− macrophages, increased the growth rate of D6-competent neoplasms. In the KS model with the B-Raf V600E–activating mutation, inhibition of B-Raf or the downstream ERK pathway induced D6 expression; in progressing human KS tumors, the activation of ERK correlates with reduced levels of D6 expression. These results indicate that activation of the K-Ras–B-Raf–ERK pathway during KS progression downregulates D6 expression, which unleashes chemokine-mediated macrophage recruitment and their acquisition of an M2-like phenotype supporting angiogenesis and tumor growth. Combined targeting of CCR2 and the ERK pathway should be considered as a therapeutic option for patients with KS. Cancer Immunol Res; 2(7); 679–89. ©2014 AACR.
Body Mass Index in Different Dementia Disorders: Results from the Swedish Dementia Quality Registry (SveDem)
Authors: Faxén-Irving Gerd , Fereshtehnejad Seyed-Mohammad , Falahati Farshad , Cedergren Lars , Göranzon Helen , Wallman Kristine , García-Ptacek Sara , Eriksdotter Maria , Religa Dorota
Published: April 2014

Background: Most patients with dementia lose body weight over the course of the disease and have a lower body mass index (BMI) than subjects with normal cognition. Aims: To examine body mass index and how it correlates with cognitive status, age and gender in patients with different dementia disorders. Materials and Methods: Data from newly diagnosed dementia patients in the Swedish Dementia Quality Registry (SveDem) and recorded information about age, gender, cognitive status and BMI was analyzed using independent samples t tests and one-way analysis of variance. Results: A total of 12,015 patients, 7,121 females and 4,894 males were included in the study. The average BMI was 24. More than a quarter of the patients had a BMI of <22. Females were significantly older (p < 0.001) and males had a significantly higher BMI (p < 0.001) at the time of diagnosis. BMI differed significantly by gender in various dementia disorders and correlated significantly with cognitive status and age. Conclusion: At the time of diagnosis, patients with various dementia disorders had a BMI within the normal range. However, a significant number had a BMI in a lower, suboptimal range for older persons stressing the need for nutritional assessment as part of the dementia work up. Further analyses with longitudinal follow-up are needed to investigate BMI changes over time.
Epidemiology of first and recurrent venous thromboembolism: A population-based cohort study in patients without active cancer
Authors: Cohen Alexander T. , Bamber Luke , Rietbrock Stephan , Martinez Carlos
Published: April 2014

Contemporary data from population studies on the incidence and complications of venous thromboembolism (VTE) are limited. An observational cohort study was undertaken to estimate the incidence of first and recurrent VTE. The cohort was identified from all patients in the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) with additional linked information on hospitalisation and cause of death. Between 2001 and 2011, patients with first VTE were identified and the subset without active cancer-related VTE observed for up to 10 years for recurrent VTE. The 10-year cumulative incidence rates (CIR) were derived with adjustment for mortality as a competing risk event. A total of 35,373 first VTE events (12,073 provoked, 16,708 unprovoked and 6592 active cancer-associated VTE) among 26.9 million person-years of observation were identified. The overall incidence rate (IR) of VTE was 131.5 (95% CI, 130.2–132.9) per 100,000 person-years and 107.0 (95% CI, 105.8–108.2) after excluding cancer-associated VTE. DVT was more common in the young and PE was more common in the elderly. VTE recurrence occurred in 3671 (CIR 25.2%). The IR for recurrence peaked in the first six months at around 11 per 100 person years. It levelled out after three years and then remained at around 2 per 100 person years from year 4–10 of follow-up. The IRs for recurrences were particularly high in young men. In conclusion, VTE is common and associated with high recurrence rates. Effort is required to prevent VTE and to reduce recurrences.
Peri-interventional endothelin-A receptor blockade improves long-term outcome in patients with ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Adlbrecht Christopher , Wurm Raphael , Humenberger Michael , Andreas Martin , Redwan Bassam , Distelmaier Klaus , Klappacher Günter , Lang Irene M.
Published: April 2014

Endothelin (ET)-1 is a pro-fibrotic vasoconstrictive peptide causing microvascular dysfunction and cardiac remodelling after acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). It acts via two distinct receptors, ET-A and ET-B, and is involved in inflammation and atherogenesis. Patients with posterior-wall STEMI were randomly assigned to intravenous BQ-123 at 400 nmol/minute (min) or placebo over 60 min, starting immediately prior to primary percutaneous coronary intervention (n=54). Peripheral blood samples were drawn at baseline as well as after 24 hours and 30 days. Myeloperoxidase (MPO), as a marker of neutrophil activation and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), a marker of extracellular matrix degradation were measured in plasma. Clinical follow-up was conducted by an investigator blinded to treatment allocation over three years. During the median follow-up period of 3.6 years (interquartile range [IQR] 3.3–4.1) we observed a longer event-free survival in patients randomised to receive BQ-123 compared with patients randomised to placebo (mean 4.5 years (95% confidence interval: 3.9–5) versus mean 3 years (2.2–3.7), p=0.031). Patients randomised to ET-A receptor blockade demonstrated a greater reduction of MPO levels from baseline to 24 hours compared to placebo-treated patients (-177 ng/ml (IQR 103–274) vs –108 ng/ml (74–147), p=0.006). In addition, a pronounced drop in MMP-9 levels (-568 ng/ml (44–1157) vs –117 ng/ml (57–561), p=0.018) was observed. There was no significant difference in amino-terminal propetide of pro-collagen type III levels. In conclusion, short-term administration of BQ-123 leads to a reduction in MPO, as well as MMP-9 plasma levels and to a longer event-free survival in patients with STEMI.

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00502528
Potent and specific inhibition of the biological activity of the type-II transmembrane serine protease matriptase by the cyclic microprotein MCoTI-II
Authors: Gray Kelly , Elghadban Salma , Thongyoo Panumart , Owen Kate A. , Szabo Roman , Bugge Thomas H. , Tate Edward W. , Leatherbarrow Robin J. , Ellis Vincent
Published: April 2014

Matriptase is a type-II transmembrane serine protease involved in epithelial homeostasis in both health and disease, and is implicated in the development and progression of a variety of cancers. Matriptase mediates its biological effects both via as yet undefined substrates and pathways, and also by proteolytic cleavage of a variety of well-defined protein substrates, several of which it shares with the closely-related protease hepsin. Development of targeted therapeutic strategies will require discrimination between these proteases. Here we have investigated cyclic microproteins of the squash Momordica cochinchinensis trypsin-inhibitor family (generated by total chemical synthesis) and found MCoTI-II to be a high-affinity (Ki 9 nM) and highly selective (> 1,000-fold) inhibitor of matriptase. MCoTI-II efficiently inhibited the proteolytic activation of pro-hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) by matriptase but not by hepsin, in both purified and cell-based systems, and inhibited HGF-dependent cell scattering. MCoTI-II also selectively inhibited the invasion of matriptase-expressing prostate cancer cells. Using a model of epithelial cell tight junction assembly, we also found that MCoTI-II could effectively inhibit the re-establishment of tight junctions and epithelial barrier function in MDCK-I cells after disruption, consistent with the role of matriptase in regulating epithelial integrity. Surprisingly, MCoTI-II was unable to inhibit matriptase-dependent proteolytic activation of prostasin, a GPI-anchored serine protease also implicated in epithelial homeostasis. These observations suggest that the unusually high selectivity afforded by MCoTI-II and its biological effectiveness might represent a useful starting point for the development of therapeutic inhibitors, and further highlight the role of matriptase in epithelial maintenance.
Comparison of the effect of coagulation and platelet function
impairments on various mouse bleeding models
Authors: Vaezzadeh Nima , Ni Ran , Kim Paul Y. , Weitz Jeffrey I. , Gross Peter L.
Published: April 2014

Haemostatic impairments are studied in vivo using one of several murine bleeding models. However it is not known whether these models are equally appropriate for assessing coagulation or platelet function defects. It was our study objective to assess the performance of arterial, venous and combined arterial and venous murine bleeding models towards impaired coagulation or platelet function. Unfractionated heparin (UFH) or αIIbβ3 inhibitory antibody (Leo.H4) were administered to mice, and their effects on bleeding in saphenous vein, artery, and tail tip transection models were quantified and correlated with their effects on plasma clotting and ADP-induced platelet aggregation, respectively. All models exhibited similar sensitivity with UFH (EC50 dose = 0.19, 0.13 and 0.07 U/g, respectively) (95% CI = 0.14 – 0.27, 0.08 – 0.20, and 0.03 – 0.16 U/g, respectively). Maximal inhibition of ex vivo plasma clotting could be achieved with UFH doses as low as 0.03 U/g. In contrast, the saphenous vein bleeding model was less sensitive to αIIbβ3 inhibition (EC50 = 6.9 µg/ml) than tail transection or saphenous artery bleeding models (EC50 = 0.12 and 0.37 µg/ml, respectively) (95% CI = 2.4 – 20, 0.05 – 0.33, and 0.06 – 2.2 µg/ml, respectively). The EC50 of Leo.H4 for ADP-induced platelet aggregation in vitro (8.0 µg/ml) was at least 20-fold higher than that of the tail and arterial, but not the venous bleeding model. In conclusion, venous, arterial and tail bleeding models are similarly affected by impaired coagulation, while platelet function defects have a greater influence in models incorporating arterial injury.
The coagulation system and its function in early immune defense
Authors: Poll Tom van der , Herwald Heiko
Published: April 2014

Blood coagulation has a Janus-faced role in infectious diseases. When systemically activated, it can cause serious complications associated with high morbidity and mortality. However, coagulation is also part of the innate immune system and its local activation has been found to play an important role in the early host response to infection. Though the latter aspect has been less investigated, phylogenetic studies have shown that many factors involved in coagulation have ancestral origins which are often combined with anti-microbial features. This review gives a general overview about the most recent advances in this area of research also referred to as immunothrombosis.
Sensitivity, Specificity, and Sex Differences in Symptoms Reported on the 13‐Item Acute Coronary Syndrome Checklist
Authors: DeVon Holli A. , Rosenfeld Anne , Steffen Alana D. , Daya Mohamud
Published: April 2014

Background

Clinical symptoms are part of the risk stratification approaches used in the emergency department (
ED
) to evaluate patients with suspected acute coronary syndromes (
ACS
). The objective of this study was to determine the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value of 13 symptoms for a discharge diagnosis of
ACS
in women and men.

Methods and Results

The sample included 736 patients admitted to 4
ED
s with symptoms suggestive of
ACS
. Symptoms were assessed with the 13‐item validated
ACS
Symptom Checklist. Mixed‐effects logistic regression models were used to estimate sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value of each symptom for a diagnosis of
ACS
, adjusting for age, obesity, diabetes, and functional status. Patients were predominantly male (63%) and Caucasian (70.5%), with a mean age of 59.7±14.2 years. Chest pressure, chest discomfort, and chest pain demonstrated the highest sensitivity for
ACS
in both women (66%, 66%, and 67%) and men (63%, 69%, and 72%). Six symptoms were specific for a non‐
ACS
diagnosis in both women and men. The predictive value of shoulder (odds ratio [
OR]
=2.53; 95%
CI
=1.29 to 4.96) and arm pain (
OR
2.15; 95%
CI
=1.10 to 4.20) in women was nearly twice that of men (
OR
=1.11; 95%
CI
=0.67 to 1.85 and
OR
=1.21; 95%
CI
=0.74 to 1.99). Shortness of breath (
OR
=0.49; 95%
CI
=0.30 to 0.79) predicted a non‐
ACS
diagnosis in men.

Conclusions

There were more similarities than differences in symptom predictors of
ACS
for women and men.
Live Coding in a Scalable, Participatory Laptop Orchestra
Authors: Ogborn David
Published: April 2014

Live coding (Collins et al. 2003 and other articles in this special issue of Computer Music Journal) is the central performance practice of the Cybernetic Orchestra, a laptop orchestra at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Inspired by the idea of participatory culture, the ensemble has been made open to a diverse and ever changing roster of participants, and may be likened to a human laboratory exploring this question: How is live coding scalable onto larger groups of people coming from diverse backgrounds? This article presents the practices that have developed during the first three years of the Cybernetic Orchestra's existence, starting with a summary of our human organization and physical infrastructure. The EspGrid software, developed for enhanced network synchronization and sharing, is reviewed before a final section presents the live coding practices that have crystallized around this specific collective of people, equipment, and code.
The Possibility of Compensation for Damages in Cases of Wrongful Conception, Wrongful Birth and Wrongful Life. An Estonian Perspective
Authors: Sõritsa Dina , Lahe Janno
Published: April 2014

Abstract

While case law in cases of wrongful conception, wrongful birth and wrongful life is completely missing in Estonia, this article is aimed at providing possible solutions under Estonian law to some of the legally complex problems that these cases contain. Through the analysis of Estonian, German and u.s. legal literature and case law, the article is mainly focused on proposing some solutions to the legal problems concerning compensable damage, but also explains the Estonian legal framework of the contractual and delictual basis for compensation for the damages. The application of several grounds for the possibility of limiting the compensation in the afore-mentioned cases are analysed.
The Case of the Electronic Cigarette in the EU
Authors: Syx Eugenie
Published: April 2014

Abstract

Although the electronic cigarette was invented in 2004, only recently the product has started to provoke discussion. On the one hand, the electronic cigarette is characterized by scientific uncertainties. It is not clear whether the device can be used in smoking cessation therapy, whether the use induces non-smokers — including minors — to start smoking and whether the vaporized substances and the act of vaporizing itself (which is smoking an electronic cigarette) is harmful. On the other hand, there is no harmonised European legal framework and different Member States attribute a different legal status to the e-cigarette. In this article, the author analyses how the e-cigarette should be qualified according to the current European legislation and ecj case law and describes how the e-cigarette is qualified in the uk, France, the Netherlands, Belgium and Spain.
Giving Information on Medicinal Products to the General Public — In Search of a Definition to Safeguard the Patient
Authors: Faeh Andrea
Published: April 2014

Abstract

Information on medicinal products is vital for enabling patients to give informed consent to the use of a specific product. Within the European Union (eu) the debate about how much information about prescription-only medicinal products should be made available to patients has gone on for the past five years with no definite conclusion yet. This contribution assesses the current legislation and the ongoing debate in order to identify the challenges and the prospect of new legislation, and consider its potential implications for the scope for advertising and for patient safety.
The Portrait of Matteo Ricci
Authors: Guillen-Nuñez César
Published: April 2014

This article discusses a rather unusual portrait that depicts the Italian missionary Matteo Ricci (1552–1610), to be found today in the Gesù church in Rome. When it was first exhibited it aroused such excitement among Jesuits that it was displayed next to the portraits of St. Ignatius of Loyola and St. Francis Xavier. At an uncertain date, a small inscription was attached to the frame with Ricci’s name, his years of birth and death, and a statement that the painting had been exhibited in the vestibule of the Gesù residence in 1617, but that its artist was unknown. Although the painter’s name was disclosed as that of the Chinese-Macanese Jesuit brother You Wenhui (alias Manuel Pereira) in an account by Sabatino de Ursis soon after Ricci’s death, both the painter and his work have remained practically ignored by most researchers. This article studies the portrait and its creator from an art-historical perspective in much greater detail than previously. Stylistic and iconographic influences of Chinese Ming portraiture observable in the style of the work are identified, as are features from late sixteenth-century Counter-Reformation portraits. Certain aspects of Ricci’s contributions to Chinese science are also discussed, along with a number of contemporary theological arguments that tell us much about the nature of the portrait, its subject, its creator, and its deep spiritual significance.
Aristolochia assisii, a new neotenic species of Aristolochiaceae from Espírito Santo and Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Freitas Joelcio , De Lirio Elton John , González Favio
Published: March 2014

We describe and illustrate Aristolochia assisii, a new species assigned to subseries Anthocaulicae. This subseries is characterized by the presence of extremely short and ramiflorous racemes in which each flower is subtended by a small bract. The inflorescences and the flowers of the new species are morphologically similar to those found in three woody climbers of this subseries (A. bahiensis, A. disticha and A. subglobosa); however, it clearly differs by the herbaceous condition, a trait extremely rare in cauliflorous species that suggests neoteny, and the possession of a long, cylindrical rhizome and a tapered rostrum to 1.2 cm long in the capsule. So far, A. assisii is the third species of the subseries Anthocaulicae known to occur in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil.
Agave dealbata E.Morren ex K.Koch (Asparagaceae), the correct name for Agave dasylirioides Jacobi & C.D.Bouché (Nomenclature of Agave L. I)
Authors: Thiede Joachim
Published: March 2014

The genus Agave Linné (1753: 323; Asparagaceae-Agavoideae) has played an important role for the indigenous civilizations of North America (“man-Agave symbiosis”) and is of considerable economical and horticultural importance (Gentry 1982). Many new Agave species were introduced between about 1860 and 1890 particularly from Mexico. Frequently, new taxa have a complicated nomenclatural history with often multiple introductions or descriptions by different, partly competing authors and in publications often difficult to access (e.g., Govaerts & Thiede 2013). This has led to a considerable number of incorrect author citations and/or places of publication in taxonomic treatments as well as databases such as IPNI (2013). In the framework of a second, updated edition of a taxonomic synopsis of Agave (Thiede, in prep.), at least some uncertain and controversial nomenclatural issues will need to be addressed, starting here with A. dealbata.
Nomenclatural observations on the genus “Bryopsidella” (Ulvophyceae, Bryopsidaceae)
Authors: Furnari Giovanni , CORMACI MARIO
Published: April 2014

Feldmann (1970: 249), quoting the results of Hustede (1960), who had shown that Bryopsis halymeniae Berthold (1882: 497) was the gametophyte of a Derbesia sp.[1], pointed out that this species could  not belong to the genus Bryopsis differing from it in chloroplasts with no pyrenoids and gametes without a stigma. On that basis, as well as because of its peculiar life cycle, he stated that Bryopsis halymeniae should  be considered the type of a new genus: Bryopsidella. Even though Feldmann (1970) did not explicitely propose the new combination Bryopsidella halymeniae, such a binomial was reported by Gallardo et al. (1993: 412, note 60) and by Boudouresque & Per-ret-Boudoure-sque (1987: 83).[1]A more complete paper showing that Derbesia neglecta and Bryopsis halymeniae are phases of one species, was later published by Hustede (1964).
Revision of the New World genus Glyphidops Enderlein (Diptera: Neriidae)
Authors: SEPÚLVEDA TATIANA A. , WOLFF MARTA I. , DE CARVALHO CLAUDIO J.B.
Published: April 2014

The genus Glyphidops Enderlein, 1922, the most widespread and speciose of the New World genera of Neriidae (Diptera), is revised herein. Glyphidops (Glyphidops) ruselatus, new species, G. (G.) steyskali, new species and G. (G.) coracinus, new species are described. Of the 16 previously described species, which were last treated by Aczél (1961), the following synonyms are proposed: Chaetomeristes peruanus Enderlein is treated as a junior synonym of G. (G.) bullatus (Enderlein); Nerius dispar Cresson, Oncopsia neutra Hennig and Oncopsia dubia Hennig are treated as junior synonyms of G.(O.) durus (Cresson) and Oncopsia seductrix Hennig, is treated as a junior synonym of G. (O.) flavifrons (Bigot). The species Telostylus vittatus Cresson, is removed from synonymy with G. (G.) filosus (Fabricius) and revalidated as senior synonym of G. ochreus Hennig. A new diagnosis for the genus and all species are provided, as is an identification key to species. New locality records are provided for Costa Rica, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Ecuador and Brazil.
The Stenopsyche simplex Species Group from China with descriptions of three new species (Trichoptera: Stenopsychidae)
Authors: XU JI-HUA , WANG BEI-XIN , SUN CHANG-HAI
Published: April 2014

The Chinese Stenopsyche simplex Group is revised for the first time since Weaver’s (1987) revision. The group includes 14 described species and 3 new species. Two diagnostic subgroups were recognized by Schmid (1959). The first subgroup of Chinese species includes S. anaximander Malicky 2011, S. brevata Tian & Zheng 1989, S. chinensis Hwang 1957, S. dentata Navás 1930, S. splendida Martynov 1935, S. dubia Schmid 1965, S. rotundata Schmid 1965, S. simplex Schmid 1959, and S. tienmushanensis Hwang 1957; of these, S. dentata is assigned to this first subgroup for the first time. The second diagnostic subgroup includes S. denticulata Ulmer 1926, S. longispina Ulmer 1926, S. stoetzneri Döhler 1929, S. uniformis Schmid 1965 and S. formosana Kobayashi, 1987. The species newly described here include Stenopsyche ningshanensis sp. nov., from Shaan-xi Province, belonging to the first subgroup, and Stenopsyche acanthoclada sp. nov. and Stenopsyche jinxiuensis sp. nov., both from Guang-xi Province and belonging to the second subgroup. Distribution maps of the two diagnostic subgroups of Chinese species and illustrations of male genitalia of the three new species are provided along with collection data for additional specimens for the previously described species.
Trend of Surface Air Temperature in Eastern China and Associated Large-Scale Climate Variability over the Last 100 Years
Authors: Zhao Ping , Jones Phil , Cao Lijuan , Yan Zhongwei , Zha Shuyao , Zhu Yani , Yu Yu , Tang Guoli
Published: April 2014

Using the reconstructed continuous and homogenized surface air temperature (SAT) series for 16 cities across eastern China (where the greatest industrial developments in China have taken place) back to the nineteenth century, the authors examine linear trends of SAT. The regional-mean SAT over eastern China shows a warming trend of 1.52°C (100 yr)−1 during 1909–2010. It mainly occurred in the past 4 decades and this agrees well with the variability in another SAT series developed from a much denser station network (over 400 sites) across this part of China since 1951. This study collects population data for 245 sites (from these 400+ locations) and split these into five equally sized groups based on population size. Comparison of these five groups across different durations from 30 to 60 yr in length indicates that differences in population only account for between 9% and 24% of the warming since 1951. To show that a larger urbanization impact is very unlikely, the study additionally determines how much can be explained by some large-scale climate indices. Anomalies of large-scale climate indices such as the tropical Indian Ocean SST and the Siberian atmospheric circulation systems account for at least 80% of the total warming trends.
On the Relationship between ENSO, Stratospheric Sudden Warmings, and Blocking
Authors: Barriopedro David , Calvo Natalia
Published: April 2014

This paper examines the influence of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on different aspects of major stratospheric sudden warmings (SSWs), focusing on the precursor role of blocking events. The results reveal an ENSO modulation of the blocking precursors of SSWs. European and Atlantic blocks tend to precede SSWs during El Niño (EN), whereas eastern Pacific and Siberian blocks are the preferred precursors of SSWs during La Niña (LN) winters. This ENSO preference for different blocking precursors seems to occur through an ENSO effect on regional blocking persistence, which in turn favors the occurrence of SSWs. The regional blocking precursors of SSWs during each ENSO phase also have different impacts on the upward propagation of planetary-scale wavenumbers 1 and 2; hence, they determine ENSO differences in the wavenumber signatures of SSWs. SSWs occurring during EN are preceded by amplification of wavenumber 1, whereas LN SSWs are predominantly associated to wavenumber-2 amplification. However, there is not a strong preference for splitting or displacement SSWs during any ENSO phase. This is mainly because during EN, splitting SSWs do not show a wavenumber-2 pattern.
Evaluation of Assumptions in Soil Moisture Triple Collocation Analysis
Authors: Yilmaz M. Tugrul , Crow Wade T.
Published: April 2014

Triple collocation analysis (TCA) enables estimation of error variances for three or more products that retrieve or estimate the same geophysical variable using mutually independent methods. Several statistical assumptions regarding the statistical nature of errors (e.g., mutual independence and orthogonality with respect to the truth) are required for TCA estimates to be unbiased. Even though soil moisture studies commonly acknowledge that these assumptions are required for an unbiased TCA, no study has specifically investigated the degree to which errors in existing soil moisture datasets conform to these assumptions. Here these assumptions are evaluated both analytically and numerically over four extensively instrumented watershed sites using soil moisture products derived from active microwave remote sensing, passive microwave remote sensing, and a land surface model. Results demonstrate that nonorthogonal and error cross-covariance terms represent a significant fraction of the total variance of these products. However, the overall impact of error cross correlation on TCA is found to be significantly larger than the impact of nonorthogonal errors. Because of the impact of cross-correlated errors, TCA error estimates generally underestimate the true random error of soil moisture products.
Maximum Likelihood Item Easiness Models for Test Theory Without an Answer Key
Authors: France Stephen L. , Batchelder William H.
Published: April 2014

Cultural consensus theory (CCT) is a data aggregation technique with many applications in the social and behavioral sciences. We describe the intuition and theory behind a set of CCT models for continuous type data using maximum likelihood inference methodology. We describe how bias parameters can be incorporated into these models. We introduce two extensions to the basic model in order to account for item rating easiness/difficulty. The first extension is a multiplicative model and the second is an additive model. We show how the multiplicative model is related to the Rasch model. We describe several maximum-likelihood estimation procedures for the models and discuss issues of model fit and identifiability. We describe how the CCT models could be used to give alternative consensus-based measures of reliability. We demonstrate the utility of both the basic and extended models on a set of essay rating data and give ideas for future research.
A Ranking Method for Evaluating Constructed Responses
Authors: Attali Yigal
Published: April 2014

This article presents a comparative judgment approach for holistically scored constructed response tasks. In this approach, the grader rank orders (rather than rate) the quality of a small set of responses. A prior automated evaluation of responses guides both set formation and scaling of rankings. Sets are formed to have similar prior scores and subsequent rankings by graders serve to update the prior scores of responses. Final response scores are determined by weighting the prior and ranking information. This approach allows for scaling comparative judgments on the basis of a single ranking, eliminates rater effects in scoring, and offers a conceptual framework for combining human and automated evaluation of constructed response tasks. To evaluate this approach, groups of graders evaluated responses to two tasks using either the ranking (with sets of 5 responses) or traditional rating approach. Results varied by task and the relative weighting of prior versus ranking information, but in general the ranking scores showed comparable generalizability (reliability) and validity coefficients.
Coping strategies of HIV-positive individuals and its correlation with quality of life in Pune, India
Authors: Kohli Rewa , Sane Suvarna , Ghate Manisha , Paranjape Ramesh
Published: April 2014

Quality of life including the domains of physical health and mental health are influenced by HIV infection. Coping strategies and their relationships with various domains of quality of life (QOL) were assessed among 97 HIV-infected individuals in Pune, India. Most of the infected individuals adopted emotion-focused strategies through cognitive reframing and acceptance of their HIV status. One-third adopted problem-focused coping and sought health care, scientific information and social support. Significant associations of coping strategies were observed with marital status and work and earning domains of the QOL questionnaire. Findings can help decide appropriate care and support strategies and psycho-social interventions for HIV-infected individuals.
The Effect of Asthma Education Program on Knowledge of School Teachers
Authors: Kawafha Mariam M. , Tawalbeh Loai Issa
Published: March 2014

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of an asthma education program on schoolteachers’ knowledge. Pre-test–post-test experimental randomized controlled design was used. A multistage-cluster sampling technique was used to randomly select governorate, primary schools, and schoolteachers. Schoolteachers were randomly assigned either to the experimental group ( n = 36) and attended three educational sessions or to the control group ( n = 38) who did not receive any intervention. Knowledge about asthma was measured using the Asthma General Knowledge Questionnaire for Adults (AGKQA). The results indicated that teachers in the experimental group showed significantly ( p < .001) higher knowledge of asthma in the first post-test and the second post-test compared with those in the control group. Implementing asthma education enhanced schoolteachers’ knowledge of asthma. The asthma education program should target schoolteachers to improve knowledge about asthma.
New Materialisms: Foucault and the ‘Government of Things’
Authors: Lemke Thomas
Published: April 2014

The article explores the perspectives of Foucault’s notion of government by linking it to the debate on the ‘new materialism’. Discussing Karen Barad’s critical reading of Foucault’s work on the body and power, it points to the idea of a ‘government of things’, which Foucault only briefly outlines in his lectures on governmentality. By stressing the ‘intrication of men and things’ (Foucault), this theoretical project makes it possible to arrive at a relational account of agency and ontology, going beyond the anthropocentric limitations of Foucault’s work. This perspective also suggests an altered understanding of biopolitics. While Foucault’s earlier concept of biopolitics was limited to physical and biological existence, the idea of a ‘government of things’ takes into account the interrelatedness and entanglements of men and things, the natural and the artificial, the physical and the moral. Finally, the conceptual proposal of a ‘government of things’ helps to clarify theoretical ambiguities and unresolved tensions in new materialist scholarship and allows for a more materialist account of politics.
In-line hemofiltration minimized extracorporeal membrane oxygenation-related inflammation in a porcine model
Authors: S Jialiang , S Juanhong , C Qiyi , Y Wenkui , H Changsheng , H Yimin , Z Juanjuan , G Tao , X Fengchan , L Jieshou
Published: April 2014

We evaluated a pattern for connecting a hemofiltration apparatus after the ECMO oxygenator and observed the effects on the levels of inflammatory cytokines. All animals were anesthetized and ventilated, were randomly divided into 3 groups and observed for 24 h: S group (n = 6) received cannulation and heparin infusion; E group (n = 6) received venovenous (VV)-ECMO and heparin infusion; E+H group (n = 6) received hemofiltration with VV-ECMO placed after the oxygenator and heparin infusion. Hemodynamics, gas exchange parameters and plasma cytokine levels were measured simultaneously. After VV-ECMO, oxygenation was maintained in the E and E+H groups. In the E group, the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 increased markedly in the first 2–6 h and then remained stable from 12–24 h. Concentrations of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 in the E+H group were lower than those in the E group. We concluded that the manner of connecting the hemofiltration apparatus after the oxygenator helped maintain adequate oxygenation and was easy to perform. Connecting hemofiltration to ECMO minimized the ECMO-associated effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Improving foster children’s school performance: a replication of the Helsingborg study
Authors: Tordön Rikard , Vinnerljung Bo , Axelsson Ulla
Published: April 2014

A replication of the Helsingborg study (Tideman, et al., 2011) was conducted in the municipality of Norrköping in 2008–2011. Results confirm the conclusions from the original study that children in foster care can benefit from a working model aimed to improve school performance. Furthermore, a possible way to address poor numeracy skills by computerised working memory training was identified. Implications for further research in active interventions to address underachieving foster children are discussed.
The Effect of Adult Day Services on Delay to Institutional Placement
Authors: Kelly Ronald , Puurveen Gloria , Gill Robert
Published: April 2014

Delays to institutionalization were compared between elderly individuals who differed in the amounts (“dosages”) of adult day services (ADS) they attended. A Kaplan–Meier survival analysis revealed higher dosages of ADS to be associated with greater delays to institutionalization. Retrospective data from financial and service utilization systems and from the Resident Assessment Instrument for Home Care (RAI-HC) were then used to fit a Cox regression model that was adjusted for potential selection biases. This model also found systematically lower hazards for institutionalization at higher ADS dosages. The ADS effect did not appear to be an artifact of increased utilization of additional home health services. Results suggest a beneficial effect of ADS on delay to institutionalization that cannot be attributed to home support, respite, or case management services.
What Happens if You Offer a Mobile Option to Your Web Panel? Evidence From a Probability-Based Panel of Internet Users
Authors: Toepoel Vera , Lugtig Peter
Published: April 2014

This article reports from a pilot study that was conducted in a probability-based online panel in the Netherlands. Two parallel surveys were conducted: one in the traditional questionnaire layout of the panel and the other optimized for mobile completion with new software that uses a responsive design (optimizes the layout for the device chosen). The latter questionnaire was optimized for mobile completion, and respondents could choose whether they wanted to complete the survey on their mobile phone or on a regular desktop. Results show that a substantive number of respondents (57%) used their mobile phone for survey completion. No differences were found between mobile and desktop users with regard to break offs, item nonresponse, time to complete the survey, or response effects such as length of answers to an open-ended question and the number of responses in a check-all-that-apply question. A considerable number of respondents gave permission to record their GPS coordinates, which are helpful in defining where the survey was taken. Income, household size, and household composition were found to predict mobile completion. In addition, younger respondents, who typically form a hard-to-reach group, show higher mobile completion rates.
Fatigue-resistant components: What can we learn from nature?
Authors: Taylor David
Published: April 2014

The science of biomimetics seeks to gain inspiration from nature for the development of new engineering solutions. This article reviews some of the work done to understand fatigue-resistant structures in nature. Evolution has created materials and components which are highly resistant to cyclic loading, using a number of interesting strategies: (i) careful control of geometry to minimise stress concentration; (ii) sophisticated use of fibre composites taking advantage of anisotropy, fibre insertions at joints and functional grading, to create structures with no weak interfaces; (iii) hollow, tubular components with optimised fatigue strength taking account of all possible failure modes, and; (iv) continuous monitoring and repair of fatigue cracks in service. In each case an attempt has been made to quantify the potential improvement and to outline the possibilities for future transport applications.
Text 2 treat – using SMS to recall clients for treatment
Authors: Michael Bailey Samuel , David Scalley Benjamin , Theresa Gilles Marisa
Published: April 2014

Prompt treatment of patients with genital Chlamydia shortens the period of infectivity with benefits to the individual and wider community. With large numbers of genital Chlamydia notifications, predominantly occurring in younger age groups, short message service (SMS) is a potentially useful technology for recalling this patient group quickly and efficiently. In the sexual health unit of Population Health-Midwest, Western Australia, genital Chlamydia cases were recalled for treatment with an SMS. Ninety-four per cent ( n = 60) of clients responded to the SMS, with 84% ( n = 54) responding on the same day they were contacted. All clients ( n = 64) were treated for their infection, with 72% ( n = 46) having directly-observed treatment within one day of being informed of their results via SMS. Our results suggest that SMS is a highly effective, youth-friendly communication tool.