bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Confidence Intervals for the Ratio of Two Median Residual Lifetimes with Left-Truncated and Right-Censored Data
Authors: Tsai Tsung-Hsien , Tsai Wei-Yann , Chi Yunchan , Chang Sheng-Mao 
Published: September 2015

Summary
The confidence intervals for the ratio of two median residual lifetimes are developed for left-truncated and right-censored data. The approach of Su and Wei (1993) is first extended by replacing the Kaplan–Meier survival estimator with the estimator of the conditional survival function (Lynden-Bell, 1971). This procedure does not involve a nonparametric estimation of the probability density function of the failure time. However, the Su and Wei type confidence intervals are very conservative even for larger sample size. Therefore, this article proposes an alternative confidence interval for the ratio of two median residual lifetimes, which is not only without nonparametric estimation of the density function of failure times but is also computationally simpler than the Su and Wei type confidence interval. A simulation study is conducted to examine the accuracy of these confidence intervals and the implementation of these confidence intervals to two real data sets is illustrated.
Species‐specific action of (Pro3)GIP – a full agonist at human GIP receptors, but a partial agonist and competitive antagonist at rat and mouse GIP receptors
Authors: Sparre‐Ulrich A H , Hansen L S , Svendsen B , Christensen M , Knop F K , Hartmann B , Holst J J , Rosenkilde M M 
Published: September 2015

Background and PurposeSpecific, high potency receptor antagonists are valuable tools when evaluating animal and human physiology. Within the glucose‐dependent, insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) system, considerable attention has been given to the presumed GIP receptor antagonist, (Pro3)GIP, and its effect in murine studies. We conducted a pharmacological analysis of this ligand including interspecies differences between the rodent and human GIP system.Experimental ApproachTransiently transfected COS‐7 cells were assessed for cAMP accumulation upon ligand stimulation and assayed in competition binding using 125I‐human GIP. Using isolated perfused pancreata both from wild type and GIP receptor‐deficient rodents, insulin‐releasing, glucagon‐releasing and somatostatin‐releasing properties in response to species‐specific GIP and (Pro3)GIP analogues were evaluated.Key ResultsHuman (Pro3)GIP is a full agonist at human GIP receptors with similar efficacy (Emax) for cAMP production as human GIP, while both rat and mouse(Pro3)GIP were partial agonists on their corresponding receptors. Rodent GIPs are more potent and efficacious at their receptors than human GIP. In perfused pancreata in the presence of 7 mM glucose, both rodent (Pro3)GIP analogues induced modest insulin, glucagon and somatostatin secretion, corresponding to the partial agonist activities observed in cAMP production.Conclusions and ImplicationsWhen evaluating new compounds, it is important to consider interspecies differences both at the receptor and ligand level. Thus, in rodent models, human GIP is a comparatively weak partial agonist. Human (Pro3)GIP was not an antagonist at human GIP receptors, so there is still a need for a potent antagonist in order to elucidate the physiology of human GIP.
Medial prefrontal cortex TRPV1 channels modulate the baroreflex cardiac activity in rats
Authors: Lagatta D C , Ferreira‐Junior N C , Resstel L B M 
Published: September 2015

Background and PurposeThe ventral portion of the medial prefrontal cortex (vMPFC) comprises the infralimbic (IL), prelimbic (PL) and dorsopenducular (DP) cortices. The IL and PL regions facilitate the baroreceptor reflex arc. This facilitatory effect on the baroreflex is thought to be mediated by vMPFC glutamatergic transmission, through NMDA receptors. The glutamatergic transmission can be modulated by other neurotransmitters, such as the endocannabinoids, which are agonists of the TRPV1 receptor. TRPV1 channels facilitate glutamatergic transmission in the brain. Thus, we hypothesized that TRPV1 receptors in the vMPFC enhance the cardiac baroreflex response.Experimental ApproachStainless steel guide cannulae were bilaterally implanted into the vMPFC of male Wistar rats. Afterwards, a catheter was inserted into the femoral artery, for recording MAP and HR, and into the femoral vein for assessing baroreflex activation.Key ResultsMicroinjections of the TRPV1 receptor antagonists capsazepine and 6‐iodo‐nordihydrocapsaicin (6‐IODO) into the vMPFC reduced the cardiac baroreflex activity in unanaesthetized rats. Capsaicin microinjected into the vMPFC increased the cardiac baroreflex activity in unanaesthetized rats. When an ineffective dose of the TRPV1 receptor antagonist 6‐IODO was used, the capsaicin‐induced increase in the cardiac baroreflex response was abolished. The higher doses of capsaicin administered into the vMPFC after the ineffective dose of 6‐IODO displaced the dose–response curve of the baroreflex parameters to the right, with no alteration in the maximum effect of capsaicin.Conclusions and ImplicationsThe results of the present study show that stimulation of the TRPV1 receptors in the vMPFC increases the cardiac baroreceptor reflex response.
A comprehensive investigation on the distribution of circulating follicular T helper cells and B cell subsets in primary Sjögren’s syndrome and systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Szabó K , Papp G , Szántó A , Tarr T , Zeher M 
Published: September 2015

Summary
Follicular T helper (Tfh) cells have a crucial role in regulating immune responses within secondary lymphoid follicles by directing B cell differentiation towards memory B cells and plasma cells. Because abnormal humoral responses are key features in both primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the aim of this study was to profile the pathological connection between peripheral Tfh cells and B cells in the two diseases. Twenty-five pSS patients, 25 SLE patients and 21 healthy controls were enrolled into the study. We determined the ratio of circulating Tfh-like cells, their interleukin (IL)-21 production and different B cell subsets by flow cytometry. We observed higher percentages of naive B cells in both diseases, while non-switched and switched memory B cells showed decreased frequencies. The proportions of double-negative B cells and plasmablasts were elevated in SLE and decreased in pSS. The percentages of transitional B cells and mature-naive B cells were higher in SLE. Patients with more severe disease course had an elevated ratio of TFH-like cells and increased IL-21 production. Moreover, expansion of Tfh-like cells correlated positively with parameters related to antibody secretion, including serum immunoglobulin (Ig)G, immune complexes (ICs) and autoantibodies. Correlation analysis between Tfh-like cells and certain B cell subsets revealed possible defects during B cell selection. In conclusion, our observations on the profound expansion of circulating Tfh-like cells and their IL-21 production, along with the characteristic aberrant peripheral B cell distribution in both pSS and SLE, indicate the prominent role of Tfh cell in the regulation of B cell selection.
Evaluation of intrathecal baclofen delivery system malfunction by computed tomography scan
Authors: Abousamra Oussama , Rogers Kenneth J , McManus Maura , Miller Freeman , Sees Julieanne P 
Published: September 2015

AimTo describe the computed tomography (CT) findings encountered when catheter patency is questionable. The role of CT in directing treatment is evaluated.MethodRecords of children with intrathecal baclofen pump management were reviewed. Only patients with CT evaluation who had revision pump/catheter surgery were included.ResultsFrom 295 patients, 27 had CT contrast study; in three of them, baclofen could not be aspirated and the procedure was stopped, eight had normal scan and did not need surgery and 16 patients were reported. Four patients had normal CT (free contrast formed a perfect crescent shape), and had surgery because the pump battery was close to expiration. Five patients had inadequate fluid pooling (fluid was seen without a crescent shape). Five patients had fluid leak (fluid was seen around the pump or in the lumbar canal below catheter entrance level or outside the canal in the lumbar region). Two patients had catheter occlusion (fluid loculation around the catheter tip with no free flow).InterpretationCT contrast study is safe and effective for locating defects in intrathecal baclofen delivery system. When catheter patency is questionable, CT plays an important role in directing the next step of management.
Are high densities of fishes and shrimp associated with top‐down control of tropical benthic communities? A test in three Hong Kong streams
Authors: Ho Bill S. K. , Dudgeon David 
Published: September 2015

Summary

Top‐down control of benthic communities by fishes in temperate and Neotropical streams has received considerable attention, yet relatively little is known about the occurrence or strength of such top‐down control in tropical Asian streams. We undertook pool‐scale removals of an entire macroconsumer assemblage of fishes and predatory shrimp, as well as its component guilds (algivores versus predators), in three Hong Kong streams during the dry season and monitored the responses of periphyton, benthic macroinvertebrates (predominantly insects) and leaf‐litter breakdown.

Pools supported high densities and biomass of predatory macroconsumers. Algivorous balitorid fishes had a mean density of 30.1 indiv m−2 (range: 1.5–58.2 indiv m−2) and a wet‐weight biomass of 20.9 g m−2 (range: 1.6–34.2 g m−2); values for predatory fishes (mainly a nemacheilid and a goby) were 9.4 indiv m−2 (range: 7.3–11.1 indiv m−2) and 29.7 g m−2 (range: 24.1–38.0 g m−2). Densities of predatory palaemonid shrimp were likewise high (mean: 14.0 indiv m−2; range: 8.9–19.0 indiv m−2).

Despite high macroconsumer standing stocks, there was little evidence of top‐down control of benthic communities. The removal of algivorous fishes had no effects on algal biomass, periphyton accumulation, silt accrual or abundance of benthic insects. The removal of all predators (fishes and shrimp), as well as the removal of all macroconsumers, was associated with a small increase in the density of insect scrapers (especially baetid mayflies), although no such effect was evident when predatory fishes (but not shrimp) were removed. Apparently, shrimp substituted for the role of predatory fishes by cropping any excess prey. However, the removal of the entire predatory guild or all macroconsumers produced no additional changes in macroinvertebrate assemblages, nor any influence on periphyton or leaf‐litter breakdown.

The pool‐scale approach used in this investigation, combined with the inclusion of three study streams, should have provided a realistic picture of the significance of top‐down control of benthic communities by macroconsumers. Statistical power may have been limited by logistical constraints on the number of replicate pools. Localised nutrient limitation caused by the removal of macroconsumers might have contributed to the apparent weakness of top‐down control of benthic communities. However, given the high standing stocks of fishes and shrimps, it is remarkable that experimental manipulations resulted in generally small or negligible effect sizes.
Watershed‐scale impacts of bioenergy crops on hydrology and water quality using improvedSWATmodel
Authors: Cibin Raj , Trybula Elizabeth , Chaubey Indrajeet , Brouder Sylvie M. , Volenec Jeffrey J. 
Published: September 2015

AbstractCellulosic bioenergy feedstock such as perennial grasses and crop residues are expected to play a significant role in meetingUSbiofuel production targets. We used an improved version of the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) to forecast impacts on watershed hydrology and water quality by implementing an array of plausible land‐use changes associated with commercial bioenergy crop production for two watersheds in the MidwestUSA. Watershed‐scale impacts were estimated for 13 bioenergy crop production scenarios, including: production ofMiscanthus × giganteusandupland Shawneeswitchgrass on highly erodible landscape positions, agricultural marginal land areas and pastures, removal of corn stover and combinations of these options. Water quality, measured as erosion and sediment loading, was forecasted to improve compared to baseline when perennial grasses were used for bioenergy production, but not with stover removal scenarios. Erosion reduction with perennial energy crop production scenarios ranged between 0.2% and 59%. Stream flow at the watershed outlet was reduced between 0 and 8% across these bioenergy crop production scenarios compared to baseline across the study watersheds. Results indicate that bioenergy production scenarios that incorporate perennial grasses reduced the nonpoint source pollutant load at the watershed outlet compared to the baseline conditions (0–20% for nitrate‐nitrogen and 3–56% for mineral phosphorus); however, the reduction rates were specific to site characteristics and management practices.
Birds, butterflies and flowers in the tropics are not more colourful than those at higher latitudes
Authors: Dalrymple Rhiannon L. , Kemp Darrell J. , Flores‐Moreno Habacuc , Laffan Shawn W. , White Thomas E. , Hemmings Frank A. , Tindall Marianne L. , Moles Angela T. 
Published: September 2015

AbstractAimThe idea that species are generally more colourful at tropical latitudes has held great appeal among biologists since the days of exploration by early naturalists. However, advances in colour quantification and analysis only now allow an objective test of this idea. We provide the first quantitative analysis of the latitudinal gradient in colour on a broad scale using data from both animals and plants, encompassing both human‐visible and ultraviolet colours.LocationAustralia.MethodsWe collected spectral reflectance data from 570 species or subspecies of birds, adult forms of 424 species or subspecies of butterflies and the flowers of 339 species of plants, from latitudes ranging from tropical forests and savannas at 9.25° S, to temperate forests and heathlands at 43.75° S. Colour patch saturation, maximum contrast between patches, colour diversity and hue disparity between patches were calculated for all species. Latitudinal gradients in colour were analysed using both regression analyses and comparisons of categorically temperate and tropical regions. We also provide phylogenetically independent contrast analyses.ResultsThe analyses which compared the colour traits of communities and the phylogenetically independent contrasts both show that species in the tropics are not more colourful than those at higher latitudes. Rather, the cross‐species analyses indicate that species further away from the equator possess a greater diversity of colours, and their colours are more contrasting and more saturated than those seen in tropical species. These results remain consistent regardless of whether the mean or the maximum of coloration indices are considered.Main conclusionsWe demonstrate that birds, butterflies and flowers display similar gradients of colourfulness across latitudes, indicating strong ecological and evolutionary cohesion. However, our data do not support the idea that tropical latitudes contain the most colourful species or house the more colourful biological communities.
The drivers of avian abundance: patterns in the relative importance of climate and land use
Authors: Howard Christine , Stephens Philip A. , Pearce‐Higgins James W. , Gregory Richard D. , Willis Stephen G. 
Published: September 2015

AbstractAimClimate and land use can have important effects on the local abundances of species, but few studies have investigated the relative impacts of these factors. Here, we quantify the relative importance of climate, land use and surrounding population size in determining the abundances of birds across a continent.LocationEurope.MethodsWe used species abundance models to identify the relative importance of different environmental predictors for estimating the local abundances of 342 species of European breeding birds. Models controlling for phylogeny were used to relate species life history and ecological traits to the climate:land use importance ratio. The mean of this ratio, across all species occurring in a given area, was mapped to explore spatial variation in the major drivers of abundance.ResultsAt the scale examined, climate is generally more important than land use in determining species abundances. However, the abundance of species in neighbouring areas is also a major correlate. Among climate variables, temperature is of greater importance than moisture availability in determining abundances. The relative importance of these variables varies with latitude, with temperature being most important in the north, and moisture availability in the south. Differences in the importance of specific drivers are related to species ecological traits: climate is more important for determining the abundance of species that have larger global ranges or a smaller body mass.Main conclusionsAbundances of species occurring in northern Europe, an area predicted to experience climatic changes of high magnitude, are most sensitive to climate, particularly temperature. Given the greater confidence in future projections of temperature than precipitation, this increases confidence in projections of the impacts of climate change on species in the north, whilst attempts to predict future populations in central and southern Europe may be dependent on less predictable changes in land use and precipitation.
Crystal Structure of Lu2.92Ce0.08MgAl3SiO12 Garnet Phosphor and Its Photoluminescent Properties
Authors: Cho Kyoungwon , Choi Jaeha , Mhin Sungwook , Kim Kang Min , Lee Jung‐Il , Ryu Jeong Ho 
Published: September 2015

A novel Ce3+‐doped Lu3MgAl3SiO12 (LCMAS) phosphor was successfully synthesized by a conventional solid‐state reaction. The crystal structure of the LCMAS was characterized by Rietveld refinement. The broad emission spectra of the LCMAS were observed at 550 nm, and the temperature dependence on photoluminescence properties of the LCMAS was investigated. Also, the activation energy for thermal quenching was determined by Arrhenius fitting. The experimental results clearly indicate that the LCMAS phosphor has a great potential for the down‐conversion of yellow phosphor into white light‐emitting diodes.
Basal cell nevus syndrome: clinical and molecular review and case report
Authors: Pino Livia Cristina de Melo , Balassiano Laila Klotz de Almeida , Sessim Marlene , de Almeida Ana Paula Moura , Empinotti Vinicius Dequech , Semenovitch Ivan , Treu Curt , Lupi Omar 
Published: September 2015

SummaryBasal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS), also referred to as nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome or Gorlin–Goltz syndrome, was first described by Gorlin and Goltz in 1960 as an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by the early appearance of multiple basal cell carcinomas (BCCs), keratocysts of the jaw, ectopic calcifications, palmar and plantar pits, and anomalies of the ocular, skeletal, and reproductive systems. The genesis of this cancer's etiology in relation to BCNS was unclear until a few years ago when molecular analysis studies suggested a relationship between BCC and the loss‐of‐function mutations of the patched gene (PTCH) found on chromosome arm 9q. PTCH inhibits signaling by the membrane protein Smoothened (Smo), and this inhibition is relieved by binding sonic hedgehog (SHH) to PTCH. We describe a patient with multiple BCCs associated with x‐ray anomalies of BCNS and review the basis of the SHH signaling pathway and clinical aspects of BCNS.
Restoring Congenitally Missing Maxillary Lateral Incisors Using Zirconia‐Based Resin Bonded Prostheses
Authors: Stylianou Antigoni , Liu Perng‐Ru , O'Neal Sandra J , Essig Milton E 
Published: September 2015

AbstractObjectiveThis clinical report describes an alternative treatment modality for the replacement of congenitally missing maxillary lateral incisors in a 17‐year‐old patient.Clinical ConsiderationsZirconia‐based resin‐bonded fixed partial dentures (RBFPDs) were selected as a viable and conservative treatment option in a young individual with highly aesthetic expectations. Fabrication of all‐ceramic RBFPDs followed specific preparation design and features to accommodate two retainers. The zirconia frameworks with bilateral wings were digitally designed and then milled by a computer‐aided design and computer‐aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM)‐controlled milling machine. Zirconia surface was treated with a two‐step chairside tribochemical silica‐coating/silane coupling surface treatment protocol, and adhesive resin luting cement was used to achieve micromechanical and chemical bonding. Completion of the treatment resulted in a functional and aesthetic successful outcome and a 17‐month follow‐up presented uneventful.ConclusionContemporary adhesive techniques involving resin‐bonded zirconia‐based prostheses can be utilized successfully and predictably in young patients with single missing teeth when implant therapy is currently not a treatment of choice and a less invasive approach is desired.Clinical SignificanceThe zirconia‐based resin‐bonded prosthesis constitutes a viable and conservative treatment modality for the replacement of missing teeth either congenitally or from another etiology in young patients in which implant therapy and a fixed partial denture are currently contraindicated.
Protective Effect of Fish Gelatin‐Based Natural Antimicrobial Coatings on Quality of Indian Salmon Fillets during Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Thaker Mayuri , Hanjabam Mandakini Devi , Gudipati Venkateshwarlu , Kannuchamy Nagalakshmi 
Published: September 2015

AbstractThe present study was carried out to examine the effect of gelatin‐based coating solutions enriched with natural preservative agents like chitosan, garlic (Allium sativum) and lime (Citrus aurantifolia) on quality and shelf life of refrigerated fresh Indian salmon (Eleutheronema tetradactylum) fillets. Three different coating solutions were prepared (T1: 10% gelatin; T2: 10% gelatin + 1.5% chitosan + 30% lime juice; T3: 10% gelatin + 1.5% chitosan + 30% garlic extract) and evaluated for antimicrobial activity. The antimicrobial activity of coating solutions was evaluated against eight fishborne pathogens and spoilage bacteria by agar well diffusion and micro broth dilution methods. The coating formula was found to be highly efficient in extending the shelf life of Indian salmon fillets up to 16 days in refrigerated storage by dip treatment. Among the three different treatments, garlic containing coating solution (T3) was found to be the best in extending the shelf life of fish fillets.Practical ApplicationsThe need for natural edible coatings in food industry is of great demand and it is challenging to have natural compounds exhibiting better preservative role as comparable with chemical preservatives. The present study evidenced that edible coatings made of gelatin, chitosan and garlic/lime extracts exhibit preservative action and extend the shelf life of fish fillets.