bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Recovering speciation and extinction dynamics based on phylogenies
Authors: Stadler T. 
Published: May 2013

AbstractPhylogenetic trees of only extant species contain information about the underlying speciation and extinction pattern. In this review, I provide an overview over the different methodologies that recover the speciation and extinction dynamics from phylogenetic trees. Broadly, the methods can be divided into two classes: (i) methods using the phylogenetic tree shapes (i.e. trees without branch length information) allowing us to test for speciation rate variation and (ii) methods using the phylogenetic trees with branch length information allowing us to quantify speciation and extinction rates. I end the article with an overview on limitations, open questions and challenges of the reviewed methodology.
Speciation in ninespine stickleback: reproductive isolation and phenotypic divergence among cryptic species of Japanese ninespine stickleback
Authors: Ishikawa A. , Takeuchi N. , Kusakabe M. , Kume M. , Mori S. , Takahashi H. , Kitano J. 
Published: May 2013

AbstractAlthough similar patterns of phenotypic diversification are often observed in phylogenetically independent lineages, differences in the magnitude and direction of phenotypic divergence have been also observed among independent lineages, even when exposed to the same ecological gradients. The stickleback family is a good model with which to explore the ecological and genetic basis of parallel and nonparallel patterns of phenotypic evolution, because there are a variety of populations and species that are locally adapted to divergent environments. Although the patterns of phenotypic divergence as well as the genetic and ecological mechanisms have been well characterized in threespine sticklebacks,Gasterosteus aculeatus, we know little about the patterns of phenotypic diversification in other stickleback lineages. In eastern Hokkaido, Japan, there are three species of ninespine sticklebacks,Pungitius tymensisand the freshwater type and the brackish‐water type of theP. pungitius–P. sinensisspecies complex. They utilize divergent habitats along coast–stream gradients of rivers. Here, we investigated genetic, ecological and phenotypic divergence among three species of Japanese ninespine sticklebacks. Divergence in trophic morphology and salinity tolerance occurred in the direction predicted by the patterns observed in threespine sticklebacks. However, the patterns of divergence in armour plate were different from those previously found in threespine sticklebacks. Furthermore, the genetic basis of plate variation may differ from that in threespine sticklebacks. Because threespine sticklebacks are well‐established model for evolutionary research, the sympatric trio of ninespine sticklebacks will be an invaluable resource for ecological and genetic studies on both common and lineage‐specific patterns of phenotypic diversification.
Intensive Weight Loss Intervention in Older Individuals: Results from the Action for Health in Diabetes Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Trial
Authors: Espeland Mark A. , Rejeski W. Jack , West Delia S. , Bray George A. , Clark Jeanne M. , Peters Anne L. , Chen Haiying , Johnson Karen C. , Horton Edward S. , Hazuda Helen P. ,   for the Action for Health in Diabetes Research Group
Published: May 2013

ObjectivesTo compare the effects of 4 years of intensive lifestyle intervention on weight, fitness, and cardiovascular disease risk factors in older and younger individuals.DesignRandomized controlled clinical trial.SettingSixteen U.S. clinical sites.ParticipantsIndividuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus: 1,053 aged 65 to 76 and 4,092 aged 45 to 64.InterventionsAn intensive behavioral intervention designed to promote and maintain weight loss through caloric restriction and increased physical activity was compared with diabetes mellitus support and education.MeasurementsStandardized assessments of weight, fitness (based on graded exercise testing), and cardiovascular disease risk factors.ResultsOver 4 years, older individuals had greater intervention‐related mean weight losses (6.2%) than younger participants (5.1%; interaction P = .006) and comparable relative mean increases in fitness (0.56 vs 0.53 metabolic equivalents; interaction P = .72). These benefits were seen consistently across subgroups of older adults formed according to many demographic and health factors. Of a panel of age‐related health conditions, only self‐reported worsening vision was associated with poorer intervention‐related weight loss in older individuals. The intensive lifestyle intervention produced mean increases in high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (2.03 mg/dL; P < .001) and decreases in glycated hemoglobin (0.21%; P < .001) and waist circumference (3.52 cm; P < .001) over 4 years that were at least as large in older as in younger individuals.ConclusionIntensive lifestyle intervention targeting weight loss and increased physical activity is effective in overweight and obese older individuals to produce sustained weight loss and improvements in fitness and cardiovascular risk factors.
Dietary practices and influences on diet intake among women in a Woodland Cree community
Authors: Bruner B. G. , Chad K. E. 
Published: May 2013

AbstractBackgroundOverweight and obesity are increasing concerns among Aboriginal women, and lifestyle behaviours (i.e. dietary patterns and physical activity) are considered to be contributing factors. The present study aimed to explore the social, cultural, behavioural and environmental factors influencing diet intake from a trans‐generational perspective and to characterise the dietary practices among Woodland Cree women.MethodsA mixed methods design using a concurrent triangulation approach explored the factors influencing diet intake and healthy eating among First Nations women on a reserve community in northern Saskatchewan, Canada. Dietary practices were assessed using 24‐h recalls.ResultsDietary analysis revealed low intake of fruits and vegetables and milk and alternatives in the sample, with high intake of ‘other’ foods. Limited amounts of traditional food (TF) were reported. Taste primarily influenced food choice, with a preference for TF highlighted among older participants. Healthy eating was considered to be a health‐promoting behaviour, yet a lack of availability, high costs and difficulties accessing various foods were the most noted barriers to healthy eating.ConclusionsThe dietary practices in this sample indicate the limited consumption and variety of TF and fruits and vegetables, and a high consumption of ‘other’ foods, which suggests inadequate intakes of various vitamins and nutrients. The findings from a trans‐generational perspective highlight various barriers across the age groups that can substantially impact food choices, and reinforces the need for community and age‐specific strategies to address issues of exposure, accessibility and affordability to nutritious foods that improve the diet and preserve cultural identity among residents living in reserve communities.
Deregulation of excitatory neurotransmission underlying synapse failure in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Paula‐Lima Andrea C. , Brito‐Moreira Jordano , Ferreira Sergio T. 
Published: May 2013

AbstractAlzheimer′s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia in the elderly. Memory loss inADis increasingly attributed to soluble oligomers of the amyloid‐β peptide (AβOs), toxins that accumulate inADbrains and target particular synapses. Glutamate receptors appear to be centrally involved in synaptic targeting by AβOs. Once bound to neurons, AβOs dysregulate the activity and reduce the surface expression of bothN‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) and 2‐amino‐3‐(3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐isoxazol‐4‐yl)propanoic acid (AMPA) types of glutamate receptors, impairing signaling pathways involved in synaptic plasticity. In the extracellular milieu, AβOs promote accumulation of the excitatory amino acids, glutamate andd‐serine. This leads to overactivation of glutamate receptors, triggering abnormal calcium signals with noxious impacts on neurons. Here, we review key findings linking AβOs to deregulated glutamate neurotransmission and implicating this as a primary mechanism of synapse failure inAD. We also discuss strategies to counteract the impact of AβOs on excitatory neurotransmission. In particular, we review evidence showing that inducing neuronal hyperpolarization via activation of inhibitoryGABAAreceptors prevents AβO‐induced excitotoxicity, suggesting that this could comprise a possible therapeutic approach inAD.
Stronger Risk Controls, Lower Risk: Evidence from U.S. Bank Holding Companies
Authors: ELLUL ANDREW , YERRAMILLI VIJAY 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACTWe construct a risk management index (RMI) to measure the strength and independence of the risk management function at bank holding companies (BHCs). The U.S. BHCs with higher RMI before the onset of the financial crisis have lower tail risk, lower nonperforming loans, and better operating and stock return performance during the financial crisis years. Over the period 1995 to 2010, BHCs with a higher lagged RMI have lower tail risk and higher return on assets, all else equal. Overall, these results suggest that a strong and independent risk management function can curtail tail risk exposures at banks.
Corporate Innovations and Mergers and Acquisitions
Authors: BENA JAN , LI KAI 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACTUsing a large and unique patent‐merger data set over the period 1984 to 2006, we show that companies with large patent portfolios and low R&D expenses are acquirers, while companies with high R&D expenses and slow growth in patent output are targets. Further, technological overlap between firm pairs has a positive effect on transaction incidence, and this effect is reduced for firm pairs that overlap in product markets. We also show that acquirers with prior technological linkage to their target firms produce more patents afterwards. We conclude that synergies obtained from combining innovation capabilities are important drivers of acquisitions.
Market Expectations in the Cross‐Section of Present Values
Authors: KELLY BRYAN , PRUITT SETH 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACTReturns and cash flow growth for the aggregate U.S. stock market are highly and robustly predictable. Using a single factor extracted from the cross‐section of book‐to‐market ratios, we find an out‐of‐sample return forecasting R2 of 13% at the annual frequency (0.9% monthly). We document similar out‐of‐sample predictability for returns on value, size, momentum, and industry portfolios. We present a model linking aggregate market expectations to disaggregated valuation ratios in a latent factor system. Spreads in value portfolios’ exposures to economic shocks are key to identifying predictability and are consistent with duration‐based theories of the value premium.
Risk Management and Firm Value: Evidence from Weather Derivatives
Authors: PÉREZ‐GONZÁLEZ FRANCISCO , YUN HAYONG 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACTThis paper shows that active risk management policies lead to an increase in firm value. To identify the effect of hedging and to overcome endogeneity concerns, we exploit the introduction of weather derivatives as an exogenous shock to firms’ ability to hedge weather risks. This innovation disproportionately benefits weather‐sensitive firms, irrespective of their future investment opportunities. Using this natural experiment and data from energy firms, we find that derivatives lead to higher valuations, investments, and leverage. Overall, our results demonstrate that risk management has real consequences on firm outcomes.
Do Hedge Funds Manipulate Stock Prices?
Authors: BEN‐DAVID ITZHAK , FRANZONI FRANCESCO , LANDIER AUGUSTIN , MOUSSAWI RABIH 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACTWe provide evidence suggesting that some hedge funds manipulate stock prices on critical reporting dates. Stocks in the top quartile of hedge fund holdings exhibit abnormal returns of 0.30% on the last day of the quarter and a reversal of 0.25% on the following day. A significant part of the return is earned during the last minutes of trading. Analysis of intraday volume and order imbalance provides further evidence consistent with manipulation. These patterns are stronger for funds that have higher incentives to improve their ranking relative to their peers.
A randomised trial of a simplified method for complete denture fabrication: patient perception and quality
Authors: Regis R. R. , Cunha T. R. , Della Vecchia M. P. , Ribeiro A. B. , Silva‐Lovato C. H. , de Souza R. F. 
Published: May 2013

SummaryComplete denture fabrication involves a series of complex technical procedures. Nevertheless, simplified methods may be as effective as conventional ones albeit the lesser use of time and resources, without disadvantage for the patient. This study compared a simplified method for complete denture fabrication to a conventional protocol in terms of oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL), patient satisfaction and denture quality. Forty‐two edentulous patients requesting treatment with complete dentures were randomly allocated into two study groups. Group S received dentures fabricated by a simplified method and Group C received conventionally fabricated dentures. Before interventions and after three and 6 months following insertion, OHRQoL and patient satisfaction were analysed by specific instruments. A prosthodontist assessed denture quality 3 months after delivery. Groups presented no difference for OHRQoL, denture quality and general satisfaction. Differences regarding patient satisfaction with some aspects of the dentures were found after 3 months (S > C), but were insignificant at 6 months. It was concluded that the simplified method is able to produce dentures of a quality comparable to those produced by the conventional method, influencing OHRQoL and patient satisfaction similarly.
Correlation of previous experience, patient expectation and the number of post‐delivery adjustments of complete dentures with patient satisfaction in a Brazilian population
Authors: Gaspar M. G. , Dos Santos M. B. F. , Dos Santos J. F. F. , Marchini L. 
Published: May 2013

SummaryA number of variables may influence the outcome of complete denture therapy. The objective of this study was to verify possible correlations between previous experience with dentures, patient expectation and the number of post‐delivery adjustments with patient satisfaction after treatment. One hundred patients (mean age 61·9 ± 10·3) rated their previous experiences with complete dentures and their expectations before and satisfaction after treatment on a visual analogue scale (VAS) using scores from 0 (worst results) to 10 (best results). The number of post‐delivery adjustments and other patient‐related clinical variables was also noted. Patient expectation scores were higher than previous experience scores and satisfaction after treatment scores. Positive and weak correlations were found between previous chewing experiences with complete dentures, with regard to chewing expectations and comfort of use. Phonetics and comfort of use in previous experiences presented a positive correlation with expectations for chewing, aesthetics, phonetics and comfort of use. Groups of patients with different levels of education presented significant differences in expectation scores regarding comfort of use as well. A negative and weak correlation was found between phonetics satisfaction and the number of post‐delivery adjustments. Patients' expectations for the therapy were higher than their satisfaction after treatment. Previous experiences with complete dentures could slightly influence patients' expectations and satisfaction, whereas lower scores for previous experience with complete dentures caused lower scores for both expectation and satisfaction. Patients' educational levels and the number of post‐delivery adjustments influenced negatively the expectations about comfort of use and patient satisfaction, respectively.
Bitterness evaluation of intact and crushed Vesicare orally disintegrating tablets using taste sensors
Authors: Haraguchi Tamami , Miyazaki Airi , Yoshida Miyako , Uchida Takahiro 
Published: May 2013

Abstract

Objective
Vesicare tablets, whose main component is solifenacin succinate, are known to be extremely bitter. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of crushing on the bitterness of the Vesicare orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs).

Method
Vesicare ODTs and conventional Vesicare tablets (CTs) were crushed either heavily or lightly. The bitterness scores and release rates of sample solutions obtained 5, 10, 30, 60, 90 or 120 s after placing a crushed CT or ODT containing 5 mg solifenacin in 40 ml of water were predicted using two taste sensors (SA402B and a-ASTREE) and HPLC, respectively. The particle size and the surfaces of the crushed tablets were observed microscopically.

Key findings
The predicted bitterness scores and the drug release rates of CTs were high, irrespective of the degree of crushing. The lightly crushed ODT was predicted to be less bitter than the heavily crushed ODT. In lightly crushed ODTs, spherical particles were observed, about 200 mm in diameter.

Conclusions
The degree of crushing was a critical factor in determining the expression of bitterness by crushed ODTs. When intact tablets of Vesicare must be crushed to adjust the dosage, it is strongly recommended that ODTs be crushed gently.
Differentiation of human dental stem cells reveals a role for microRNA‐218
Authors: Gay I. , Cavender A. , Peto D. , Sun Z. , Speer A. , Cao H. , Amendt B. A. 
Published: May 2013

BackgroundRegeneration of lost periodontium is the ultimate goal of periodontal therapy. Advances in tissue engineering have demonstrated the multilineage potential and plasticity of adult stem cells located in periodontal apparatus. However, it remains unclear how epigenetic mechanisms controlling signals determine tissue specification and cell lineage decisions. To date, no data are available on micro‐RNA (miRNA) activity behind human‐derived dental stem cells (DSCs).Material and MethodsIn this study, we isolated periodontal ligament stem cells, dental pulp stem cells and gingival stem cells from extracted third molars; human bone marrow stem cells were used as a positive control. The expression of OCT4A and NANOG was confirmed in these undifferentiated cells. All cells were cultured under osteogenic inductive conditions and RUNX2 expression was analyzed as a marker of mineralized tissue differentiation. The miRNA expression profile was obtained at baseline and after osteogenic induction in all cell types.ResultsThe expression of RUNX2 demonstrated successful osteogenic induction of all cell types, which was confirmed by alizarin red stain. The analysis of 765 miRNAs demonstrated a shift in miRNA expression that occurred in all four stem cell types, including a decrease in hsa‐mir‐218 across all differentiated cell populations. Hsa‐mir‐218 targets RUNX2 and decreases RUNX2 expression in undifferentiated human DSCs. DSC mineralized tissue type differentiation is associated with a decrease in hsa‐mir‐218 expression.ConclusionThese data reveal a miRNA‐regulated pathway for the differentiation of human DSCs and a select network of human miRNAs that control DSC osteogenic differentiation.
Endothelium-Independent Relaxant Effect of Rubus Coreanus Extracts in Corpus Cavernosum Smooth Muscle
Authors: Lee Jun Ho , Chae Mee Ree , Sung Hyun Hwan , Ko Mikyeong , Kang Su Jeong , Lee Sung Won 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Rubus coreanus is a perennial shrub native to the southern part of the Korean peninsula. Although it is known that R. coreanus has a dose-dependent relaxation effect on rabbit corpus cavernosum (CC), the exact mechanism of action by which R. coreanus work is not fully known.

Aims
To elucidate the direct effects of unripe R. coreanus extract (RCE) on CC smooth muscle cells.

Methods
Dried unripe R. coreanus fruits were pulverized and extracted with 95% ethanol. Isolated rabbit CC strips were mounted in an organ-bath system, and the effects of RCE were evaluated. To estimate [Ca2+]i, we used a Fura-2 fluorescent technique.

Main Outcome Measures
The effects of unripe RCE on ion channels and the intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) of CC.

Results
RCE effectively relaxed phenylephrine (PE)-induced tone in rabbit CC, and removal of the endothelium did not completely abolish the relaxation effect of RCE. Tetraethylammonium (1 mM) did not inhibit RCE-induced relaxation in strips precontracted by PE in the organ bath. However, CaCl2-induced constriction of CC strips, bathed in Ca2+-free buffer and primed with PE, was abolished by RCE. In addition, RCE decreased basal [Ca2+]i in corporal smooth muscle cells. The increases of [Ca2+]i evoked by 60 mM K+-containing solution in A7r5 cells were suppressed by RCE, and RCE relaxed KCl-induced tone in endothelium-free CC, which indicated that RCE blocked the voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels (VDCCs). RCE decreased basal [Ca2+]i and the [Arg8]-vasopressin-induced [Ca2+]i increases in A7r5 cells, and RCE inhibited the contraction of endothelium-free CC induced by PE in Ca2+-free solution, which suggested that RCE might act as a modulator of corporal smooth muscle cell tone by inhibiting Ca2+ release from sarcoplasmic reticulum.

Conclusion
RCE acts through endothelium-independent and endothelium-dependent pathways to relax CC. RCE may inhibit VDCCs and Ca2+ release from sarcoplasmic reticulum.
The Global Online Sexuality Survey (GOSS): The United States of America in 2011 Chapter III—Premature Ejaculation Among English-Speaking Male Internet Users
Authors: Shaeer Osama 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT

Introduction
The Global Online Sexuality Survey (GOSS) is a worldwide epidemiologic study of sexuality and sexual disorders. In 2010, the first report of GOSS came from the Middle East.

Aim
This report studies the prevalence rate of premature ejaculation (PE) in the U.S. as of 2011–2012 and evaluates risk factors for PE.

Methods
GOSS was randomly deployed to English-speaking male web surfers in the USA via paid advertising on Facebook®, comprising 146 questions.

Main Outcome Measures
Prevalence of PE as per the International Society of Sexual Medicine's (ISSM) definition.

Results
With a mean age of 52.38 years ± 14.5, 1,133 participants reported on sexual function. As per the ISSM definition of PE, the prevalence rate of PE in the USA as of 2011 was 6.3%. This is in contrast to 49.6% as per the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT), 77.6% as per unfiltered subjective reports, and 14.4% as per subjective reporting on more consistent basis. 56.3% of the latter reported lifelong PE. 63.2% could be classified as having natural variable PE. Erectile dysfunction is a possible predisposing factor for acquired PE, while genital size concerns may predispose to lifelong PE. Age, irregular coitus, circumcision, and the practice of masturbation did not pose a risk for PE, among other risk factors. Oral treatment for PE was more frequently used and reported to be more effective than local anesthetics, particularly in those with lifelong PE.

Conclusion
Applying the ISSM definition, prevalence of PE is far less than diagnosed by other methods, 6.3% among Internet users in USA as of the year 2011. PEDT measures both lifelong and acquired PE, in addition to 35% men with premature-like ejaculatory dysfunction, making it inaccurate for isolating lifelong and acquired PE cases.