bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
CD4 Count is Still a Valid Indicator of Outcome in HIV‐Infected Patients Undergoing Major Abdominal Surgery in the Era of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Chichom‐Mefire A. , Azabji‐Kenfack M. , Atashili J. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractBackgroundPatients with HIV/AIDS on antiretroviral therapy (ART) live longer and now require surgery for indications similar to those described for the general population. They have been previously reported to carry higher mortality and complication rates, especially septic complications. The aim of this study was to compare the outcome of major abdominal surgery in three groups of patients with different CD4 counts.MethodsThis is a prospective study comparing HIV‐negative patients and two groups of HIV‐infected patients on ART with different CD4 counts. The primary outcomes considered were mortality and complication rates after abdominal surgery. We emphasised on the value of CD4 as a predictor of outcome and the impact of the indication for surgery (septic versus non‐septic).ResultsWe included 63 patients (21 per group). The majority of patients (71 %) were operated on as an emergency and the indications were similar in all groups. The overall and the septic complication rates were both higher in the group with a low CD4 count. This resulted in a significantly longer admission period but did not result in a higher mortality rate. The duration of ART and the World Health Organisation stage of the disease did not significantly influence surgical outcomes.ConclusionsHIV‐infected patients on ART can now safely undergo major abdominal surgery with encouraging results though still relatively poorer than those of HIV‐negative subjects. CD4 count remains a significant predictor of outcome and patients with a low CD4 count, however, still require closer pre‐ and post‐operative monitoring.
Learning to reason from samples
Authors: Ben-Zvi Dani , Bakker Arthur , Makar Katie 
Published: February 2015

AbstractThe goal of this article is to introduce the topic oflearning to reason from samples, which is the focus of this special issue of Educational Studies in Mathematics onstatistical reasoning. Samples are data sets, taken from some wider universe (e.g., a population or a process) using a particular procedure (e.g., random sampling) in order to be able to make generalizations about this wider universe with a particular level of confidence. Sampling is hence a key factor in making reliable statistical inferences. We first introduce the theme and the key questions this special issue addresses. Then, we provide a brief literature review on reasoning about samples and sampling. This review sets the grounds for the introduction of the five articles and the concluding reflective discussion. We close by commenting on the ways to support the development of students’ statistical reasoning on samples and sampling.
Cordierite Honeycomb Monoliths Coated with Zirconia and Its Modified Forms for Biodiesel Synthesis from Pongamia glabra
Authors: Shyamsundar M. , Shamshuddin S. Z. Mohamed , Aniz C. U. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractThis study investigates the use of cordierite honeycomb monoliths coated with solid acids such as zirconia, Mo(VI)/ZrO2 and Pt‐SO42−/ZrO2 and solid bases like zirconia–calcia, zirconia–magnesia mixed oxides in the synthesis of biodiesel from oil (PG‐oil). Solid acids were used for the esterification of free fatty acids in PG‐oil with methanol to reduce the percentage of free fatty acids in the oil followed by transesterification of PG‐oil over solid bases to synthesize biodiesel. The oxide catalysts were coated on honeycombs by an impregnation technique and characterized for their surface acidity/basicity, crystallinity and morphology. The effect of the molar ratio of PG‐oil/methanol in esterification and transesterification was studied. Reactivation and reusability of both solid acid and solid base catalysts was investigated. The catalysts were also prepared in their powder forms and their activity was compared with that of honeycomb coated forms. A twofold increase in the yield of biodiesel was obtained when the catalysts were used in honeycomb coated forms. The results revealed that the honeycombs coated with mixed oxides such as zirconia–calcia and zirconia–magnesia were economical, efficient and eco‐friendly (3e concept) for biodiesel production with ~95 % yield.
Construction, visualization, and analysis of biological network models in Dynetica
Authors: Eidum Derek , Asthana Kanishk , Unni Samir , Deng Michael , You Lingchong 
Published: February 2015

Mathematical modeling has become an increasingly important aspect of biological research. Computer simulations help to improve our understanding of complex systems by testing the validity of proposed mechanisms and generating experimentally testable hypotheses. However, significant overhead is generated by the creation, debugging, and perturbation of these computational models and their parameters, especially for researchers who are unfamiliar with programming or numerical methods. Dynetica 2.0 is a user‐friendly dynamic network simulator designed to expedite this process. Models are created and visualized in an easy‐to‐use graphical interface, which displays all of the species and reactions involved in a graph layout. System inputs and outputs, indicators, and intermediate expressions may be incorporated into the model via the versatile “expression variable” entity. Models can also be modular, allowing for the quick construction of complex systems from simpler components. Dynetica 2.0 supports a number of deterministic and stochastic algorithms for performing time‐course simulations. Additionally, Dynetica 2.0 provides built‐in tools for performing sensitivity or dose response analysis for a number of different metrics. Its parameter searching tools can optimize specific objectives of the time course or dose response of the system. Systems can be translated from Dynetica 2.0 into MATLAB code or the Systems Biology Markup Language (SBML) format for further analysis or publication. Finally, since it is written in Java, Dynetica 2.0 is platform independent, allowing for easy sharing and collaboration between researchers.
Paternalistic leadership, subordinate perceived leader–member exchange and organizational citizenship behavior
Authors: Tang Chaoying , Naumann Stefanie E 
Published: February 2015

AbstractChinese paternalistic leadership (PL) includes three dimensions: benevolence, morality and authoritarianism. Benevolent leadership positively affects organizational citizenship behaviors through leader–member exchange (LMX). Resource limitations of supervisors bring about LMX differentiations within groups. Little research has addressed the moderating effect of LMX differentiations on the three dimensions of paternalistic leadership and organizational citizenship behaviors. In a study on 307 team members and leaders in 47 teams in two hotels in China, we found that benevolence and moral leadership had a positive effect on organizational citizenship behaviors, whereas authoritarian leadership did not. Team LMX differentiations moderated the relationship between moral leadership, authoritarianism leadership and LMX.
Intestinal anti-inflammatory activity of apigenin K in two rat colitis models induced by trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid and dextran sulphate sodium
Authors: Mascaraque Cristina , González Raquel , Suárez María Dolores , Zarzuelo Antonio , Sánchez de Medina Fermín , Martínez-Augustin Olga 
Published: February 2015

Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds that are widespread in nature, and consumed as part of the human diet in significant amounts. The aim of the present study was to test the intestinal anti-inflammatory activity of apigenin K, a soluble form of apigenin, in two models of rat colitis, namely the trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS) model and the dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) model. Apigenin K (1, 3 and 10 mg/kg; by the oral route; n 4–6 per group) was administered as a pre-treatment to rats with TNBS and DSS colitis, and colonic status was checked by macroscopic and biochemical examination. Apigenin K pre-treatment resulted in the amelioration of morphological signs and biochemical markers in the TNBS model. The results demonstrated a reduction in the inflamed area, as well as lower values of score and colonic weight:length ratio compared with the TNBS group. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity was reduced by 30 % (P< 0·05). Moreover, apigenin K pre-treatment ameliorated morphological signs and biochemical markers in the DSS model. Thus, macroscopic damage was significantly reduced and the colonic weight:length ratio was lowered by approximately 10 %, while colonic MPO and alkaline phosphatase activities were decreased by 35 and 21 %, respectively (P< 0·05). Apigenin K pre-treatment also tended to normalise the expression of a number of colonic inflammatory markers (e.g. TNF-α, transforming growth factor-β, IL-6, intercellular adhesion molecule 1 or chemokine (C–C motif) ligand 2). In conclusion, apigenin K is found to have anti-inflammatory effects in two preclinical models of inflammatory bowel disease.
A role for panendoscopy? Second primary tumour in early stage squamous cell carcinoma of the oral tongue
Authors: Koo K , Harris R , Wiesenfeld D , Iseli T A 
Published: February 2015

AbstractBackground:Panendoscopy is routinely used for the identification of occult second primary tumours in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. However, its role in low risk subgroups, particularly non-smoking, non-drinking patients and patients presenting with early stage oral cavity lesions, is debatable.Methods:The records of 112 patients with T1 or T2 oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic, disease characteristics and survival data were collected.Results:Average follow-up duration was 71.7 months (range, 3.6–238.3 months). Thirty-five patients died within this period. Thirteen second primary events were identified in 11 patients, with all but 2 tumours in the oral cavity or oropharynx. There was a single synchronous primary – a lung adenocarcinoma; all other events were metachronous. No non-smoking, non-drinking patients re-presented with a second primary tumour; tobacco and alcohol use are clearly risk factors for development of a second primary tumour.Conclusion:The role of panendoscopy for identifying synchronous primary tumours in patients with early stage oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma should be re-evaluated, particularly in non-smoking, non-drinking patients who are at low risk of second primary development. Close follow up with regular clinical examination including flexible fibre-optic endoscopy may be sufficient in this subgroup.
Serum soluble tumour necrosis factor related apoptosis-inducing ligand level and peripheral eosinophil count in patients with nasal polyposis
Authors: Bisgin A , Eyigor H , Osma U , Yilmaz M D , Yalcin A D 
Published: February 2015

AbstractBackground:Nasal polyposis is one of the most common inflammatory pathologies of the nasal cavity. Eosinophilic inflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis. This study aimed to investigate soluble tumour necrosis factor related apoptosis-inducing ligand levels and eosinophil count in nasal polyposis patients.Methods:The study was performed on 24 adult nasal polyposis patients and 24 age-matched healthy individuals. The patients had not received any medical or surgical treatment. Pre-operative computed tomography scans were assessed using the Lund–MacKay grading system, and soluble tumour necrosis factor related apoptosis-inducing ligand levels were measured with a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Results:Compared with controls, eosinophil levels in nasal polyposis patients were increased (p = 0.024), but there was no significant difference in soluble tumour necrosis factor related apoptosis-inducing ligand levels (p = 0.529). The Lund–Mackay mean grading was 12.43 ± 6.9. There was no correlation between soluble tumour necrosis factor related apoptosis-inducing ligand level and Lund–Mackay grading and eosinophil count.Conclusion:There was no relationship between soluble tumour necrosis factor related apoptosis-inducing ligand level and blood eosinophil or clinical markers; however, soluble tumour necrosis factor related apoptosis-inducing ligand level remains of interest for future studies.
Recent advances in superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome
Authors: Chilvers G , McKay-Davies I 
Published: February 2015

AbstractObjective:This study aimed to review the current advances in superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome and to ascertain its aetiology, whether dehiscence size correlates with symptoms, signs and investigation results, the best investigations, and its surgical management.Methods:A literature search using the key words ‘superior semicircular canal dehiscence’ was performed using the Allied and Complementary Medicine Database and the Embase, Health Management Information Consortium, Medline, PsycINFO, British Nursing Index, Cinahl and Health Business Elite databases for the period January 2009 to May 2014. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomised controlled trials, prospective and retrospective case series, case reports, and observational studies were included.Results:Of the 205 papers identified, 35 were considered relevant.Conclusion:The aetiology of superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome is unclear. Dehiscence size significantly affects the air–bone gap and ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential thresholds. Computed tomography evaluation has a high false positive rate. The middle cranial fossa approach is the surgical standard for treating this syndrome; however, the transmastoid approach is gaining popularity.
SOLVENCY II TECHNICAL PROVISIONS FOR GENERAL INSURERS
Authors: Dreksler S. , Allen C. , Akoh-Arrey A. , Courchene J. A. , Junaid B. , Kirk J. , Lowe W. , O’Dea S. , Piper J. , Shah M. , Shaw G. , Storman D. , Thaper S. , Thomas L. , Wheatley M. , Wilson M. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractThis paper brings together the work of the GI Solvency II Technical Provisions working party. The working party was formed in 2009 for the primary purpose of raising awareness of Solvency II and the impact it would have on the work that reserving actuaries do. Over the years, the working party’s focus has shifted to exploring and promoting discussion of the many practical issues raised by the requirements and to promoting best practice. To this end, we have developed, presented and discussed many of the ideas contained in this paper at events and forums. However, the size of the subject means that at no one event have we managed to cover all of the areas that the reserving actuary needs to be aware of. This paper brings together our thinking in one place for the first time. We hope experienced practitioners will find it thought provoking, and a useful reference tool. For new practitioners, we hope it helps to get you up-to-speed quickly. Good luck!
Characterization of the Thickness and Distribution of Latex Coatings on Polyvinylidene Chloride Beads by Backscattered Electron Imaging
Authors: Todd Clifford S. , Beyer Douglas E. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractPolyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) co-polymer resins are commonly formulated with a variety of solid additives for the purpose of processing or stabilization. A homogeneous distribution of these additives during handling and processing is important. The Dow Chemical Company developed a process to incorporate solid materials in latex form onto PVDC resin bead surfaces using a coagulation process. In this context, we present a method to characterize the distribution and thickness of these latex coatings. The difference in backscattered electron signal from the higher mean atomic number PVDC core and lower atomic number latex coating in conjunction with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging using a range of accelerating voltages was used to characterize latex thickness and distribution across large numbers of beads quickly and easily. Monte Carlo simulations were used to quantitatively estimate latex thickness as a function of brightness in backscatter electron images. This thickness calibration was validated by cross-sectioning using a focused ion-beam SEM. Thicknesses from 100 nm up to about 1.3 µm can be determined using this method.
On the abundance of extraterrestrial life after the Kepler mission
Authors: Wandel Amri 
Published: February 2015

AbstractThe data recently accumulated by the Kepler mission have demonstrated that small planets are quite common and that a significant fraction of all stars may have an Earth-like planet within their habitable zone. These results are combined with a Drake-equation formalism to derive the space density of biotic planets as a function of the relatively modest uncertainty in the astronomical data and of the (yet unknown) probability for the evolution of biotic life, Fb. I suggest that Fb may be estimated by future spectral observations of exoplanet biomarkers. If Fb is in the range 0.001–1, then a biotic planet may be expected within 10–100 light years from Earth. Extending the biotic results to advanced life I derive expressions for the distance to putative civilizations in terms of two additional Drake parameters – the probability for evolution of a civilization, Fc, and its average longevity. For instance, assuming optimistic probability values (Fb~Fc~1) and a broadcasting longevity of a few thousand years, the likely distance to the nearest civilizations detectable by searching for intelligent electromagnetic signals is of the order of a few thousand light years. The probability of detecting intelligent signals with present and future radio telescopes is calculated as a function of the Drake parameters. Finally, I describe how the detection of intelligent signals would constrain the Drake parameters.
The pervasive role of biological cohesion in bedform development
Authors: Malarkey Jonathan , Baas Jaco H. , Hope Julie A. , Aspden Rebecca J. , Parsons Daniel R. , Peakall Jeff , Paterson David M. , Schindler Robert J. , Ye Leiping , Lichtman Ian D. , Bass Sarah J. , Davies Alan G. , Manning Andrew J. , Thorne Peter D. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractSediment fluxes in aquatic environments are crucially dependent on bedform dynamics. However, sediment-flux predictions rely almost completely on clean-sand studies, despite most environments being composed of mixtures of non-cohesive sands, physically cohesive muds and biologically cohesive extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) generated by microorganisms. EPS associated with surficial biofilms are known to stabilize sediment and increase erosion thresholds. Here we present experimental data showing that the pervasive distribution of low levels of EPS throughout the sediment, rather than the high surficial levels of EPS in biofilms, is the key control on bedform dynamics. The development time for bedforms increases by up to two orders of magnitude for extremely small quantities of pervasively distributed EPS. This effect is far stronger than for physical cohesion, because EPS inhibit sand grains from moving independently. The results highlight that present bedform predictors are overly simplistic, and the associated sediment transport processes require re-assessment for the influence of EPS.
Convergence of soil nitrogen isotopes across global climate gradients
Authors: Craine Joseph M. , Elmore Andrew J. , Wang Lixin , Augusto Laurent , Baisden W. Troy , Brookshire E. N. J. , Cramer Michael D. , Hasselquist Niles J. , Hobbie Erik A. , Kahmen Ansgar , Koba Keisuke , Kranabetter J. Marty , Mack Michelle C. , Marin-Spiotta Erika , Mayor Jordan R. , McLauchlan Kendra K. , Michelsen Anders , Nardoto Gabriela B. , Oliveira Rafael S. , Perakis Steven S. , Peri Pablo L. , Quesada Carlos A. , Richter Andreas , Schipper Louis A. , Stevenson Bryan A. , Turner Benjamin L. , Viani Ricardo A. G. , Wanek Wolfgang , Zeller Bernd 
Published: February 2015

AbstractQuantifying global patterns of terrestrial nitrogen (N) cycling is central to predicting future patterns of primary productivity, carbon sequestration, nutrient fluxes to aquatic systems and climate forcing. With limited direct measures of soil N cycling at the global scale, syntheses of the 15N:14N ratio of soil organic matter across climate gradients provide key insights into understanding global patterns of N cycling. In synthesizing data from over 6000 soil samples, we show strong global relationships among soil N isotopes, mean annual temperature (MAT), mean annual precipitation (MAP) and the concentrations of organic carbon and clay in soil. In both hot ecosystems and dry ecosystems, soil organic matter was more enriched in 15N than in corresponding cold ecosystems or wet ecosystems. Below a MAT of 9.8°C, soil δ15N was invariant with MAT. At the global scale, soil organic C concentrations also declined with increasing MAT and decreasing MAP. After standardizing for variation among mineral soils in soil C and clay concentrations, soil δ15N showed no consistent trends across global climate and latitudinal gradients. Our analyses could place new constraints on interpretations of patterns of ecosystem N cycling and global budgets of gaseous N loss.
Metabolomic profiling reveals deep chemical divergence between two morphotypes of the zoanthid Parazoanthus axinellae
Authors: Cachet Nadja , Genta-Jouve Grégory , Ivanisevic Julijana , Chevaldonné Pierre , Sinniger Frédéric , Culioli Gérald , Pérez Thierry , Thomas Olivier P. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractMetabolomics has recently proven its usefulness as complementary tool to traditional morphological and genetic analyses for the classification of marine invertebrates. Among the metabolite-rich cnidarian order Zoantharia, Parazoanthus is a polyphyletic genus whose systematics and phylogeny remain controversial. Within this genus, one of the most studied species, Parazoanthus axinellae is prominent in rocky shallow waters of the Mediterranean Sea and the NE Atlantic Ocean. Although different morphotypes can easily be distinguished, only one species is recognized to date. Here, a metabolomic profiling approach has been used to assess the chemical diversity of two main Mediterranean morphotypes, the “slender” and “stocky” forms of P. axinellae. Targeted profiling of their major secondary metabolites revealed a significant chemical divergence between the morphotypes. While zoanthoxanthin alkaloids and ecdysteroids are abundant in both morphs, the “slender” morphotype is characterized by the presence of additional and bioactive 3,5-disubstituted hydantoin derivatives named parazoanthines. The absence of these specific compounds in the “stocky” morphotype was confirmed by spatial and temporal monitoring over an annual cycle. Moreover, specimens of the “slender” morphotype are also the only ones found as epibionts of several sponge species, particularly Cymbaxinella damicornis thus suggesting a putative ecological link.