bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A probability model for evaluating the bias and precision of influenza vaccine effectiveness estimates from case-control studies
Authors: HABER M. , AN Q. , FOPPA I. M. , SHAY D. K. , FERDINANDS J. M. , ORENSTEIN W. A. 
Published: August 2014

SUMMARYAs influenza vaccination is now widely recommended, randomized clinical trials are no longer ethical in many populations. Therefore, observational studies on patients seeking medical care for acute respiratory illnesses (ARIs) are a popular option for estimating influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE). We developed a probability model for evaluating and comparing bias and precision of estimates of VE against symptomatic influenza from two commonly used case-control study designs: the test-negative design and the traditional case-control design. We show that when vaccination does not affect the probability of developing non-influenza ARI then VE estimates from test-negative design studies are unbiased even if vaccinees and non-vaccinees have different probabilities of seeking medical care against ARI, as long as the ratio of these probabilities is the same for illnesses resulting from influenza and non-influenza infections. Our numerical results suggest that in general, estimates from the test-negative design have smaller bias compared to estimates from the traditional case-control design as long as the probability of non-influenza ARI is similar among vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. We did not find consistent differences between the standard errors of the estimates from the two study designs.
Identifying anthropogenic threats to Cape Vultures Gyps coprotheres using community perceptions in communal farmland, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: PFEIFFER MORGAN B. , VENTER JAN A. , DOWNS COLLEEN T. 
Published: August 2014

SummaryDeclines in Old World vulture populations have been linked to anthropogenic pressures. To assess these threats, the social dimensions of vulture conservation must be explored. Prior research in Africa focused on commercial farmers’ perceptions of vultures and identified that small stock farmers used poison more than large stock farmers to deter livestock predators. However, the vulnerable Cape Vulture Gyps coprotheres breeds throughout communal farmland in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Consequently, community interviews were conducted within the foraging range of the Msikaba Cape Vulture colony, separating regions according to the amount of transformed land. Residents in the least transformed land region perceived the smallest reductions in livestock ownership over the past ten years, while residents of the moderately transformed region perceived the greatest reductions in livestock ownership. Livestock carcasses were reported to be available for vultures at ‘informal vulture restaurants’. Arrangement of livestock carcasses was found to be independent of land use; however type of carcass consumed varied. None of the respondents stated they used poison to eliminate livestock predators. More respondents cited illegal poaching of vultures for traditional medicine as a threat, although the majority stated that vultures benefited the community.
Relative quality-related (dis)utility in a vertically differentiated oligopoly with an environmental externality
Authors: Elhadj Nada Ben , Tarola Ornella 
Published: August 2014

AbstractIn a vertically differentiated setting, we consider a two-stage game between a clean firm and a dirty producer with quality competition at the first stage and price competition at the second stage under the assumption that consumers have relative preferences for quality. The equilibrium configuration changes depending on the consumers' dispersion and the relative preferences: either both producers are active at equilibrium, or the green producer is the only firm active in the market, the brown competitor being out. We analyze how the equilibrium changes when preferences are country specific (developed vs. developing countries). Finally, we show that whatever the market configuration at equilibrium, there can be a pollution damage reduction compared to the standard case without relative preferences. To the best of our knowledge, we are the first to introduce in the literature of green consumerism the notion of (possibly country-specific) relative preferences.
Plasma vitamin D is associated with fasting insulin and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance in young adult males, but not females, of the Jerusalem Perinatal Study
Authors: Moore Amy , Hochner Hagit , Sitlani Colleen M , Williams Michelle A , Hoofnagle Andrew N , de Boer Ian H , Kestenbaum Bryan , Siscovick David S , Friedlander Yechiel , Enquobahrie Daniel A 
Published: August 2014

AbstractObjectiveTo examine cross-sectional relationships between plasma vitamin D and cardiometabolic risk factors in young adults.DesignData were collected from interviews, physical examinations and biomarker measurements. Total plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) was measured using LC–tandem MS. Associations between 25(OH)D and cardiometabolic risk factors were modelled using weighted linear regression with robust estimates of standard errors.SettingIndividuals born in Jerusalem during 1974–1976.SubjectsParticipants of the Jerusalem Perinatal Study (n 1204) interviewed and examined at age 32 years. Participants were oversampled for low and high birth weight and for maternal pre-pregnancy obesity.ResultsMean total 25(OH)D concentration among participants was 21·7 (sd 8·9) ng/ml. Among males, 25(OH)D was associated with homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (natural log-transformed, β=−0·011, P=0·004) after adjustment for BMI. However, these associations were not present among females (P for sex interaction=0·005).ConclusionsWe found evidence for inverse associations of 25(OH)D with markers of insulin resistance among males, but not females, in a healthy, young adult Caucasian population. Prospective studies and studies conducted on other populations investigating sex-specific effects of vitamin D on cardiometabolic risk factors are warranted.
The PUR Experiment on the EXPOSE-R facility: biological dosimetry of solar extraterrestrial UV radiation
Authors: Bérces A. , Egyeki M. , Fekete A. , Horneck G. , Kovács G. , Panitz C. , Rontó Gy. 
Published: August 2014

AbstractThe aim of our experiment Phage and Uracil Response was to extend the use of bacteriophage T7 and uracil biological dosimeters for measuring the biologically effective ultraviolet (UV) dose in the harsh extraterrestrial radiation conditions. The biological detectors were exposed in vacuum-tightly cases in the European Space Agency (ESA) astrobiological exposure facility attached to the external platform of Zvezda (EXPOSE-R). EXPOSE-R took off to the International Space Station (ISS) in November 2008 and was installed on the External platform of the Russian module Zvezda of the ISS in March 2009. Our goal was to determine the dose–effect relation for the formation of photoproducts (i.e. damage to phage DNA and uracil, respectively). The extraterrestrial solar UV radiation ranges over the whole spectrum from vacuum-UV (λ<200 nm) to UVA (315 nm<λ<400 nm), which causes photolesions (photoproducts) in the nucleic acids/their components either by photoionization or excitation. However, these wavelengths cause not only photolesions but in a wavelength-dependent efficiency the reversion of some photolesions, too. Our biological detectors measured in situ conditions the resultant of both reactions induced by the extraterrestrial UV radiation. From this aspect the role of the photoreversion in the extension of the biological UV dosimetry are discussed.
Understanding individual differences in response to Self-Practice and Self-Reflection (SP/SR) during CBT training
Authors: Chaddock Anna , Thwaites Richard , Bennett-Levy James , Freeston Mark H. 
Published: August 2014

AbstractSelf-Practice/Self-Reflection (SP/SR) has been developed as a self-experiential training strategy to enhance CBT therapists’ skills. SP/SR gives therapists an experience of CBT through practising CBT techniques on themselves, and reflecting on the experience and its implications for clinical practice. Many practitioners report significant professional and personal gains from SP/SR; however, there is considerable individual variation. This study examined individual experiences of SP/SR in order to develop a better understanding of idiosyncratic variations in participants’ approaches to SP/SR, and to inform the design and implementation of future SP/SR programmes. A single-case design was employed to examine the experiences of four trainee cognitive-behaviour therapists who were undertaking SP/SR as part of their professional training in CBT. Quantitative data from self-ratings of skill, and qualitative data from participants’ reflections and attributions following completion of SP/SR were examined. Both the participants, and two additional reviewers were consulted in the interpretation of the results. The impact of SP/SR appeared specific to each participant, reflecting different ways that participants engaged with SP/SR materials. The study suggests that for optimal development, engagement of the personal self and therapist self may be required.
The law regulating cross-border relief operations
Authors: Gillard Emanuela-Chiara 
Published: August 2014

AbstractIn view of the challenges frequently encountered in providing assistance to civilians in opposition-held territories, consideration is sometimes given to cross-border relief operations. Such operations raise numerous legal questions, including whose consent is required; what constitutes arbitrary withholding of consent; what the consequences of withholding of consent are, both for those wishing to provide assistance and for the parties withholding consent; and what alternatives exist for providing assistance in such circumstances.
Trimethylamine and trimethylamine N-oxide are supplementary energy sources for a marine heterotrophic bacterium: implications for marine carbon and nitrogen cycling
Authors: Lidbury Ian D E A , Murrell J Colin , Chen Yin 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
Bacteria of the marine Roseobacter clade are characterised by their ability to utilise a wide range of organic and inorganic compounds to support growth. Trimethylamine (TMA) and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) are methylated amines (MA) and form part of the dissolved organic nitrogen pool, the second largest source of nitrogen after N2 gas, in the oceans. We investigated if the marine heterotrophic bacterium, Ruegeria pomeroyi DSS-3, could utilise TMA and TMAO as a supplementary energy source and whether this trait had any beneficial effect on growth. In R. pomeroyi, catabolism of TMA and TMAO resulted in the production of intracellular ATP which in turn helped to enhance growth rate and growth yield as well as enhancing cell survival during prolonged energy starvation. Furthermore, the simultaneous use of two different exogenous energy sources led to a greater enhancement of chemoorganoheterotrophic growth. The use of TMA and TMAO primarily as an energy source resulted in the remineralisation of nitrogen in the form of ammonium, which could cross feed into another bacterium. This study provides greater insight into the microbial metabolism of MAs in the marine environment and how it may affect both nutrient flow within marine surface waters and the flux of these climatically important compounds into the atmosphere.
Strong effects of genetic and lifestyle factors on biomarker variation and use of personalized cutoffs
Authors: Enroth Stefan , Johansson Åsa , Enroth Sofia Bosdotter , Gyllensten Ulf 
Published: August 2014

AbstractIdeal biomarkers used for disease diagnosis should display deviating levels in affected individuals only and be robust to factors unrelated to the disease. Here we show the impact of genetic, clinical and lifestyle factors on circulating levels of 92 protein biomarkers for cancer and inflammation, using a population-based cohort of 1,005 individuals. For 75% of the biomarkers, the levels are significantly heritable and genome-wide association studies identifies 16 novel loci and replicate 2 previously known loci with strong effects on one or several of the biomarkers with P-values down to 4.4 × 10−58. Integrative analysis attributes as much as 56.3% of the observed variance to non-disease factors. We propose that information on the biomarker-specific profile of major genetic, clinical and lifestyle factors should be used to establish personalized clinical cutoffs, and that this would increase the sensitivity of using biomarkers for prediction of clinical end points.
Expression of Nicotinamide Phosphoribosyltransferase-Influenced Genes Predicts Recurrence-Free Survival in Lung and Breast Cancers
Authors: Zhou Tong , Wang Ting , Garcia Joe G. N. 
Published: August 2014

AbstractNicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) is a rate-limiting enzyme in the salvage pathway of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide biosynthesis. NAMPT protein is a secreted plasma biomarker in inflammation and in cancer. The NAMPT enzymatic inhibitor, FK866, acts as an inducer of apoptosis and is a cancer therapeutic candidate, however, little is known regarding the influence of NAMPT on cancer biological mechanisms or on the prognosis of human cancers. We interrogated known microarray data sets to define NAMPT knockdown-influenced gene expression to demonstrate that reduced NAMPT expression strongly dysregulates cancer biology signaling pathways. Comparisons of gene expression datasets of four cancer types generated a N39 molecular signature exhibiting consistent dysregulated expression in multiple cancer tissues. The N39 signature provides a significant and independent prognostic tool of human recurrence-free survival in lung and breast cancers. Despite the absence of clear elucidation of molecular mechanisms, this study validates NAMPT as a novel “oncogene” with a central role in carcinogenesis. Furthermore, the N39 signature provides a potentially useful tool for prediction of recurrence-free survival in lung and breast cancer and validates NAMPT as a novel and effective therapeutic target in cancer.
Investigating Leggett-Garg inequality for a two level system under decoherence in a non-Markovian dephasing environment
Authors: Chen Po-Wen , Ali Md. Manirul 
Published: August 2014

AbstractLeggett-Garg inequalities (LGI) test the correlations of a single system measured at different times. Violation of LGI implies either the absence of a realistic description of the system or the impossibility of measuring the system without disturbing it. We investigate the violation of the Leggett-Garg inequality for a two level system under decoherence in a non-Markovian dephasing environment. We discuss the non-Markovian dynamics of the violation of LGI at zero temperature and also at finite temperature for different structured environments. An enhanced quantum coherence is shown through the violation of Leggett-Garg inequality in the strong non-Markovian regime of the environment.
Adolescent Alcohol-Drinking Frequency and Problem-Gambling Severity: Adolescent Perceptions regarding Problem-Gambling Prevention and Parental/Adult Behaviors and Attitudes
Authors: Rahman Ardeshir S. , Balodis Iris M. , Pilver Corey E. , Leeman Robert F. , Hoff Rani A. , Steinberg Marvin A. , Rugle Loreen , Krishnan-Sarin Suchitra , Potenza Marc N. 
Published: August 2014

Background The study examined in adolescents how alcohol-drinking frequency relates to gambling-related attitudes and behaviors and perceptions of both problem-gambling prevention strategies and adult (including parental) behaviors/attitudes. Methods A survey assessing alcohol, gambling, and health and functioning measures in 1609 high school students. Students were stratified into low-frequency/nondrinking and high-frequency-drinking groups, and into low-risk and at-risk/problematic gambling groups. Results High-frequency drinking was associated with at-risk/problematic gambling (χ2(1, N = 1842) = 49.22, P < .0001). High-frequency-drinking versus low-frequency/nondrinking adolescents exhibited more permissive attitudes towards gambling (e.g., less likely to report multiple problem-gambling prevention efforts to be important). At-risk problematic gamblers exhibited more severe drinking patterns and greater likelihood of acknowledging parental approval of drinking (χ2(1, N = 1842) = 31.58, P < .0001). Problem-gambling severity was more strongly related to gambling with adults among high-frequency-drinking adolescents (odds ratio [OR] = 3.17, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = [1.97, 5.09]) versus low-frequency/nondrinking (OR = 1.86, 95% CI = [0.61, 2.68]) adolescents (interaction OR = 1.78, 95% CI = [1.05, 3.02]). Conclusions Interrelationships between problematic drinking and gambling in youth may relate to more permissive attitudes across these domains. Stronger links between at-risk/problem gambling and gambling with adults in the high-frequency-drinking group raises the possibility that interventions targeting adults may help mitigate youth gambling and drinking.
Baylor Pediatric SBIRT Medical Residency Training Program: Model Description and Evaluation
Authors: Bray James H. , Kowalchuk Alicia , Waters Vicki , Allen Erin , Laufman Larry , Shilling Elizabeth H. 
Published: August 2014

Background The Baylor College of Medicine SBIRT Medical Residency Training Program is a multilevel project that trains residents and faculty in evidenced-based screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment methods for alcohol and substance use problems. Methods This paper describes the training program created for pediatric residents and provides an evaluation of the program. Ninety-five first-year pediatric residents participated in the training program. They were assessed on satisfaction with the program, self-rated skills, observed competency, and implementation into clinical practice. Results The program was successfully incorporated into the residency curricula in two pediatric residencies. Evaluations indicate a high degree of satisfaction with the program, self-reported improvement in SBIRT skills, observed proficiency in SBIRT skills, and utilization of SBIRT skills in clinical practice. Conclusions SBIRT skills training can be incorporated into pediatric residency training, and residents are able to learn and implement the skills in clinical practice.
Working Memory Impairment in Cannabis- and Opioid-Dependent Adolescents
Authors: Vo Hoa T. , Schacht Rebecca , Mintzer Miriam , Fishman Marc 
Published: August 2014

Background Cannabis and opioid use are associated with cognitive impairment, whether preexisting or substance-induced, but there have been few substance-specific assessments of cognitive functioning in adolescent substance users. Working memory impairment may be particularly important, as it has been linked to poorer performance in substance abuse treatment. Methods Working memory (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-IV or Adult Intelligence Scale-IV) and baseline substance use were assessed in 42 youth (mean age = 17.9 years, SD = 1.3, range: 16–20; 65% Caucasian, 30% female) 1–2 weeks after admission to residential treatment with supervised abstinence, 19 for primary cannabis dependence and 23 for primary opioid dependence. Results There were substantial deficits in working memory in both groups, with significant differences ( P < .001) between the opioid ( M = 39.1th%ile, SD = 25.6) and cannabis ( M = 16.3th%ile, SD = 13.6) groups. The primary opioid group had high rates of cannabis use, with no significant difference in past-month days of cannabis use from the primary cannabis group. The opioid group was older and had completed more years of formal education. Seventy-nine percent of the cannabis group had public health care coverage (mostly Medicaid), compared with 24% of the opioid sample. Conclusions Working memory impairment was substantial in treatment-seeking youth with primary cannabis and opioid dependence (the latter actually having comparable rates of cannabis use), and significantly more pronounced in the primary cannabis-dependent group. Without an assessment of working memory prior to substance exposure, the differential contributions of substance-induced vs. preexisting impairment are unclear. Lower scores in the cannabis group may reflect lower socioeconomic status (SES), which is typically correlated with cognitive performance. These findings highlight underrecognized cognitive impairment in youth with SUDs, especially inner-city cannabis-dependent youth. Modification of treatments to account for cognitive capacity and/or cognitive remediation interventions may be indicated to improve treatment outcomes.
Mitigating killer whale depredation on demersal longline fisheries by changing fishing practices
Authors: Tixier Paul , Vacquie Garcia Jade , Gasco Nicolas , Duhamel Guy , Guinet Christophe 
Published: August 2014

AbstractOdontocete depredation on longlines involves socioeconomic and conservation issues with significant losses for fisheries and potential impacts on wild populations of depredating species. As technical solutions to this conflict are limited and difficult to implement, this study aimed to identify fishing practices that could reduce odontocete depredation, with a focus on killer whales (Orcinus orca) interacting with Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) longliners off the Crozet islands. Data collected by fishery observers from 6013 longline sets between 2003 and 2013 allowed us to statistically detect the significant influence of five operational variables using GLMMs. The probability of interactions between vessels and killer whales was decreased by (i) the number of vessels operating simultaneously in the area: the limited number of depredating killer whales may induce a dilution effect with increased fleet size, and (ii) depth of longline sets: vessels operating in shallow waters may be more accessible to whales that are initially distributed on peri-insular shelves. The cpue was negatively influenced by (iii) length of longlines: longer sets may provide killer whales access to a greater proportion of hooked fish per set, and positively influenced by (iv) hauling speed: increased speed may shorten the time during which toothfish are accessible to whales during hauling. The time it takes for killer whales to reach vessels was positively correlated to (v) the distance travelled between longline sets with an estimated threshold of 100 km beyond which whales seem to temporarily lose track of vessels. These findings provide insightful guidelines about what fishing strategy to adopt given these variables to reduce killer whale depredation here and in similar situations elsewhere. To a greater extent, this study is illustrative of how collaborative work with fishermen in a fully controlled fishery framework may lead to the definition of cost-limited and easy-to-implement mitigation solutions when facing such human-wildlife conflict.
Propaganda and Conflict: Evidence from the Rwandan Genocide *
Authors: Yanagizawa-Drott David 
Published: August 2014

AbstractThis article investigates the role of mass media in times of conflict and state-sponsored mass violence against civilians. We use a unique village-level data set from the Rwandan genocide to estimate the impact of a popular radio station that encouraged violence against the Tutsi minority population. The results show that the broadcasts had a significant effect on participation in killings by both militia groups and ordinary civilians. An estimated 51,000 perpetrators, or approximately 10% of the overall violence, can be attributed to the station. The broadcasts increased militia violence not only directly by influencing behavior in villages with radio reception but also indirectly by increasing participation in neighboring villages. In fact, spillovers are estimated to have caused more militia violence than the direct effects. Thus, the article provides evidence that mass media can affect participation in violence directly due to exposure and indirectly due to social interactions.