bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Piebaldism
Authors: Oiso Naoki , Fukai Kazuyoshi , Kawada Akira , Suzuki Tamio
Published: June 2012

Piebaldism is an uncommon autosomal dominantly inherited pigment anomaly characterized by a congenital white forelock and leukoderma on the frontal scalp, forehead, ventral trunk and extremities. It is caused by a loss‐of‐function mutation in the KIT gene. Genetic analyses reveal a consistent genotype–phenotype relationship in piebaldism. However, recently reported cases of piebaldism that are milder or severer than genetically expected indicate that other factors, such as a modifier gene of MC1R, influence skin and hair color. The KIT ligand/KIT that triggers the Ras/mitogen‐activated protein kinase signaling pathway play essential functions in the migration, proliferation, survival, melanogenesis and melanosome transfer of the melanocytes. We summarize current research progress in piebaldism and related disorders.
Autopsy case of delayed anaphylactic shock due to contrast medium
Authors: NAGAI Yayoi , TANAKA Yuko , NAKAZATO Yoichi , SUGAWARA Nobuyuki , ARAI Miho , OKADA Etsuko , KOYAMA Yoshinari , HINOHARA Hiroshi , YAMAMOTO Koujirou , KURABAYASHI Masahiko , NOJIMA Yoshihisa , ISHIKAWA Osamu
Published: June 2012

We report an autopsy case of delayed anaphylactic shock due to contrast medium. A 17‐year‐old Japanese man underwent angiography using non‐ionic contrast medium under the suspected diagnosis of Buerger’s disease. Initial symptoms appeared 6 h after the administration of the contrast medium, and death was confirmed 11 h later. Considering the clinical course and the results of the autopsy, we concluded that the direct cause of the patient’s death was severe acute circulatory failure due to a delayed allergic reaction to the contrast medium. The reported incidence of serious delayed reactions or biphasic reactions to non‐ionic contrast medium is extremely low; however, we should be aware of such rare adverse reactions.
Comparison of Macintosh and AirtraqTM laryngoscopes in obese patients placed in the ramped position
Authors: Ranieri D. , Filho S. M. , Batista S. , do Nascimento P.
Published: June 2012

This study compared intubation conditions produced by the Macintosh and AirtraqTM laryngoscopes when used in obese patients in the ramped position. One hundred and thirty‐two patients having bariatric surgery were placed in the ramped position and randomly assigned to have their tracheas intubated using either the Macintosh (n = 64) or an Airtraq (n = 68) laryngoscope. Mean (SD) intubation times were 37 (23) s and 14 (3) s for Macintosh and Airtraq, respectively (p < 0.0001). Compared with the Macintosh laryngoscope, the Airtraq laryngoscope provided an improved vocal cord view as assessed by the Cormack and Lehane score (number of patients with Cormack‐Lehane scores of 1/2/3/4/37/20/4/3 for the Macintosh, and 65/3/0/0 for the Airtraq laryngoscopes, p < 0.0001). One patient in the Macintosh group had a failed intubation and intubation was achieved with the Airtraq. For obese patients in ramped position, Airtraq affords faster tracheal intubation than the Macintosh laryngoscope.
Herb–drug interactions: an overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Posadzki Paul , Watson Leala , Ernst Edzard
Published: June 2012

OBJECTIVES The aim of this overview of systematic reviews (SRs) is to evaluate critically the evidence regarding interactions between herbal medicinal products (HMPs) and synthetic drugs.

METHODS Four electronic databases were searched to identify relevant SRs.

RESULTS Forty‐six SRs of 46 different HMPs met our inclusion criteria. The vast majority of SRs were of poor methodological quality. The majority of these HMPs were not associated with severe herb–drug interactions. Serious herb–drug interactions were noted for Hypericum perforatum and Viscum album. The most severe interactions resulted in transplant rejection, delayed emergence from anaesthesia, cardiovascular collapse, renal and liver toxicity, cardiotoxicity, bradycardia, hypovolaemic shock, inflammatory reactions with organ fibrosis and death. Moderately severe interactions were noted for Ginkgo biloba, Panax ginseng, Piper methysticum, Serenoa repens and Camellia sinensis. The most commonly interacting drugs were antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants.

CONCLUSION The majority of the HMPs evaluated in SRs were not associated with drug interactions with serious consequences. However, the poor quality and the scarcity of the primary data prevent firm conclusions.
Is the cardiovascular system a therapeutic target for cannabidiol?
Authors: Stanley Christopher P. , Hind William H. , O'Sullivan Saoirse E.
Published: June 2012

Cannabidiol (CBD) has beneficial effects in disorders as wide ranging as diabetes, Huntington's disease, cancer and colitis. Accumulating evidence now also suggests that CBD is beneficial in the cardiovascular system. CBD has direct actions on isolated arteries, causing both acute and time‐dependent vasorelaxation. In vitro incubation with CBD enhances the vasorelaxant responses in animal models of impaired endothelium‐dependent vasorelaxation. CBD protects against the vascular damage caused by a high glucose environment, inflammation or the induction of type 2 diabetes in animal models and reduces the vascular hyperpermeability associated with such environments. A common theme throughout these studies is the anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidant effect of CBD. In the heart, in vivo CBD treatment protects against ischaemia‐reperfusion damage and against cardiomyopathy associated with diabetes. Similarly, in a different model of ischaemia‐reperfusion, CBD has been shown to reduce infarct size and increase blood flow in animal models of stroke, sensitive to 5HT1A receptor antagonism. Although acute or chronic CBD treatment seems to have little effect on haemodynamics, CBD reduces the cardiovascular response to models of stress, applied either systemically or intracranially, inhibited by a 5HT1A receptor antagonist. In blood, CBD influences the survival and death of white blood cells, white blood cell migration and platelet aggregation. Taken together, these preclinical data appear to support a positive role for CBD treatment in the heart, and in peripheral and cerebral vasculature. However, further work is required to strengthen this hypothesis, establish mechanisms of action and whether similar responses to CBD would be observed in humans.
Guideline for the diagnosis and management of myelofibrosis
Authors: Reilly John T. , McMullin Mary Frances , Beer Philip A. , Butt Nauman , Conneally Eibhlean , Duncombe Andrew , Green Anthony R. , Michaeel N. George , Gilleece Marie H. , Hall Georgina W. , Knapper Steven , Mead Adam , Mesa Ruben A. , Sekhar Mallika , Wilkins Bridget , Harrison Claire N. ,   Writing group: British Committee for Standards in Haematology
Published: June 2012

The guideline group regarding the diagnosis and management of myelofibrosis was selected to be representative of UK‐based medical experts, together with a contribution from a single expert from the USA. MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched systematically for publications in English from 1966 until August 2011 using a variety of key words. The writing group produced the draft guideline, which was subsequently revised by consensus of the members of the General Haematology and Haemato‐oncology Task Forces of the British Committee for Standards in Haematology (BCSH). The guideline was then reviewed by a sounding board of UK haematologists, the BCSH and the British Society for Haematology Committee and comments incorporated where appropriate. The criteria used to state levels and grades of evidence are as outlined in the Procedure for Guidelines commissioned by the BCSH; the ‘GRADE‘ system was used to score strength and quality of evidence. The objective of this guideline is to provide healthcare professionals with clear guidance on the investigation and management of primary myelofibrosis, as well as post‐polycythaemic myelofibrosis (post‐PV MF) and post‐thrombocythemic myelofibrosis (post‐ET MF) in both adult and paediatric patients.
Smoking cessation is followed by a sharp but transient rise in the incidence of overt autoimmune hypothyroidism – A population‐based, case–control study
Authors: Carlé Allan , Bülow Pedersen Inge , Knudsen Nils , Perrild Hans , Ovesen Lars , Banke Rasmussen Lone , Jørgensen Torben , Laurberg Peter
Published: June 2012

Background

Current smoking is associated with a low prevalence of thyroid autoantibodies. On the other hand, smoking withdrawal enhances thyroid autoantibody level and may be a risk factor for the development of hypothyroidism. The aim of this study was to assess the association between smoking habits (smoking cessation in particular) and development of autoimmune hypothyroidism.

Design

Population‐based, case–control study.

Participants

Cases (n = 140) newly diagnosed with primary autoimmune overt hypothyroidism were identified prospectively by population monitoring (2 027 208 person‐years of observation) of all thyroid function tests performed in the two well‐defined geographical areas. Individually, age‐, sex‐ and region‐matched euthyroid controls (n = 560) were simultaneously included from the same population.

Measurements

Participants gave details on smoking habits including smoking withdrawal and other lifestyle factors. Smoking habits were verified by measuring urinary cotinine (a nicotine metabolite).

Results

Incident hypothyroidism was very common in people who had recently stopped smoking: OR vs never smokers (95%‐CI); quit smoking <1 years, 7·36 (2·27–23·9); 1‐2 years, 6·34 (2·59–15·3); 3‐10 years, 0·75 (0·30–1·87); >10 years, 0·76 (0·38–1·51). Results were consistent in both sexes and irrespective of age. Within two years after smoking cessation, the percentage of hypothyroid cases attributable to cessation of smoking was 85%. The current smoking was not associated with altered risk of developing overt hypothyroidism [OR, 0·92 (0·57–1·48)].

Conclusions

The risk of having overt autoimmune hypothyroidism diagnosed is more than 6‐fold increased the first 2 years after cessation of smoking. Clearly, smoking cessation is vital to prevent death and severe disease. However, awareness of hypothyroidism should be high in people who have recently quit smoking, and virtually any complaint should lead to thyroid function testing.
Enhancing the bond of a resin‐based sealer to root dentine
Authors: Rahimi M. , Jainaen A. , Parashos P. , Palamara J. , Messer H. H.
Published: June 2012

Aim

To evaluate whether application of a total‐etch/separate adhesive layer can enhance the bond of a UDMA‐based sealer to dentine.

Methodology

The root canals of 20 decoronated maxillary premolar teeth with two canals were prepared to size 35–45, 0.04 taper using rotary NiTi instruments. The canals of each tooth were treated with application of either a total‐etch/separate adhesive or the manufacturer‐recommended primer, before root filling with sealer plus matching master cone using warm vertical compaction. After setting, roots were sectioned perpendicular to the long axis to obtain 1‐mm‐thick slices, and the root filling was subjected to the push‐out test using a plunger closely matched to canal diameter. The roots of another 15 single‐rooted premolars were sectioned in a bucco‐lingual direction, and the cut surfaces were ground flat for microshear bond strength testing. One‐half of the specimens were coated with a separate total‐etch/adhesive layer, and then, a cylinder of sealer cement 1 mm diameter × 1.5 mm high was bonded to the prepared surface of all specimens. Microshear bond strength was measured in a universal testing machine after 48 h. Data were analysed using anova and paired t‐tests, with significance set at P < 0.05.

Results

Use of a separate total‐etch/adhesive markedly increased both microshear bond strength and push‐out strengths compared with standard primer (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Application of a separate adhesive layer significantly increases bond strength of UDMA‐based sealers to root dentine.
Effect of autoclaving on the surfaces of TiN‐coated and conventional nickel–titanium rotary instruments
Authors: Spagnuolo G. , Ametrano G. , D'Antò V. , Rengo C. , Simeone M. , Riccitiello F. , Amato M.
Published: June 2012

Aim

To evaluate the effects of repeated autoclave sterilization cycles on surface topography of conventional nickel–titanium (
NiTi
) and titanium nitride (
TiN
)‐coated rotary instruments.

Methodology

A total of 60
NiTi
rotary instruments, 30 ProTaper (Dentsply Maillefer) and 30
TiN
‐coated AlphaKite (Komet/Gebr. Brasseler), were analysed. Instruments were evaluated in the as‐received condition and after 1, 5 and 10 sterilization cycles. After sterilization, the samples were observed using scanning electron microscope (SEM), and surface chemical analysis was performed on each instrument with energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS). Moreover, the samples were analysed by atomic force microscopy (AFM), and roughness average (Ra) and the root mean square value (RMS) of the scanned surface profiles were recorded. Data were analysed by means of anova followed by Tukey's test.

Result

Scanning electron microscope observations revealed the presence of pitting and deep milling marks in all instruments. EDS analysis confirmed that both types of instruments were composed mainly of nickel and titanium, whilst AlphaKite had additional nitride. After multiple autoclave sterilization cycles, SEM examinations revealed an increase in surface alterations, and EDS values indicated changes in chemical surface composition in all instruments. Ra and RMS values of ProTaper significantly increased after 5 (P = 0.006) and 10 cycles (P = 0.002) with respect to the as‐received instruments, whilst AlphaKite showed significant differences compared with the controls after 10 cycles (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Multiple autoclave sterilization cycles modified the surface topography and chemical composition of conventional and
TiN
‐coated
NiTi
rotary instruments.
Ultrasonic activation of internal bleaching agents
Authors: Cardoso M. , Martinelli C. S. M. , Carvalho C. A. T. , Borges A. B. , Torres C. R. G.
Published: June 2012

Aim

To evaluate the effectiveness of ultrasonic activation of bleaching agents during ex vivo internal bleaching.

Methodology

Fifty canine human teeth were artificially stained, root filled and divided into five groups (n = 10) that received SP – sodium perborate plus deionized water (control group), CP – 37% carbamide peroxide gel, CPUS – 37% carbamide peroxide gel plus ultrasonic application, HP – 35% hydrogen peroxide gel or HPUS – 35% hydrogen peroxide gel plus ultrasonic application. In groups CP and HP, the bleaching agent was left inside the pulp chamber for three applications of 10 min. In groups CPUS and HPUS, the same process was performed, but ultrasonic vibration was applied to the bleaching agent by an alloy tip for 30 s, with 30 s intervals. Two sessions were performed. The colour was measured initially and after each session by an intraoral dental spectrophotometer. The variation (Δ) of the colour parameters based on the CIELab system L*, a* and b*, and the colour alteration ΔE* were calculated after first and second section. Data were analysed by one‐way anova and Tukey's test.

Results

There was no significant difference amongst groups for ΔL*, Δa* and ΔE*, but there was a significant difference for Δb* in the first and second sessions (P = 0.0006 and 0.0016, respectively). After the first session, Δb* was significantly greater for groups HP and HPUS, without a significant difference between them. For the second session, group HPUS had the greatest Δb* values, but they were similar to groups HP and SP; group CP had the lowest values, which were similar to groups CPUS and SP.

Conclusion

Ultrasonic activation of bleaching agents during ex vivo internal bleaching was no more effective than conventional internal bleaching procedures, without activation.
The influence of elastic modulus mismatch between tooth and post and core restorations on root fracture
Authors: Ona M. , Wakabayashi N. , Yamazaki T. , Takaichi A. , Igarashi Y.
Published: June 2012

Aim

To investigate the influence of elastic modulus mismatch between tooth and post and core restorations on mechanisms of root fracture.

Methodology

Three‐dimensional mathematical models of a root filled maxillary premolar tooth with supporting periodontium were constructed. The tooth was restored with a cast Ni–Cr alloy or fibre‐reinforced composite post and core that was bonded or nonbonded to dentine. In the nonbonded simulation, a nonlinear contact analysis was executed to simulate a friction and a potential sliding phenomenon in the interface between tooth and post and core. Risks of root fracture and debonding at the bonded interface were estimated based on the principal stress of the root and the shear stress on the interface, respectively.

Results

The fracture risk of the bonded cast post and core was lower than that of the composite post and core, although the cast restoration exhibited eight times greater stress than the composite. The risk of root fracture based on the tensile stress of the tooth structures was higher with the bonded composite post and core than that with the cast post and core. These stresses doubled when the restorations were not bonded to the tooth structures. The risk of debonding of the cast post and core based on the shear stress was approximately twice that of the composite post and core.

Conclusions

The elastic modulus mismatch appears to be a factor responsible for the debonding of post and cores from root canals, with the potential to increase the risk of root fracture indirectly.
Postprandial Insulin Resistance in Zucker Diabetic Fatty Rats is Associated with Parasympathetic‐Nitric Oxide Axis Deficiencies
Authors: Afonso R. A. , Fernandes A. B. , Santos C. , Ligeiro D. , Ribeiro R. T. , Lima I. S. , Patarrao R. S. , Videira P. A. , Caldeira J. , Macedo M. P.
Published: June 2012

The Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rat is an obesity and type 2 diabetes model. Progression to diabetes is well characterised in ZDF rats, but only in the fasted state. We evaluated the mechanisms underlying postprandial insulin resistance in young ZDF rats. We tested the hypothesis that the overall postprandial action of insulin is affected in ZDF rats as a result of impairment of the hepatic parasympathetic‐nitric oxide (PSN‐NO) axis and/or glutathione (GSH), resulting in decreased indirect (PSN‐NO axis) and direct actions of insulin. Nine‐week‐old male ZDF rats and lean Zucker rats (LZR, controls) were used. The action of insulin was assessed in the fed state before and after parasympathetic antagonism atropine. Basal hepatic NO and GSH were measured, as well as NO synthase (NOS) and γ‐glutamyl‐cysteine synthethase (GCS) activity and expression. ZDF rats presented postprandial hyperglycaemia (ZDF, 201.4 ± 12.9 mg/dl; LZR, 107.7 ± 4.3 mg/dl), but not insulinopaenia (ZDF, 5.9 ± 0.8 ng/ml; LZR, 1.5 ± 0.3 ng/ml). Total postprandial insulin resistance was observed (ZDF, 78.6 ± 7.5 mg glucose/kg; LZR, 289.2 ± 24.7 mg glucose/kg), with a decrease in both the direct action of insulin (ZDF, 54.8 ± 7.0 mg glucose/kg; LZR, 173.3 ± 20.5 mg glucose/kg) and the PSN‐NO axis (ZDF, 24.5 ± 3.9 mg glucose/kg; LZR, 115.9 ± 19.4 mg glucose/kg). Hepatic NO (ZDF, 117.2 ± 11.4 μmol/g tissue; LZR, 164.6 ± 4.9 μmol/g tissue) and GSH (ZDF, 4.9 ± 0.3 μmol/g; LZR, 5.9 ± 0.2 μmol/g) were also compromised as a result of decreased NOS and GCS activity, respectively. These results suggest a compromise of the mechanism responsible for potentiating insulin action after a meal in ZDF rats. We show that defective PSN‐NO axis and GSH synthesis, together with an impaired direct action of insulin, appears to contribute to postprandial insulin resistance in this model.
Conservation of thiol‐oxidative stress responses regulated by SigR orthologues in actinomycetes
Authors: Kim Min‐Sik , Dufour Yann S. , Yoo Ji Sun , Cho Yoo‐Bok , Park Joo‐Hong , Nam Gi‐Baeg , Kim Hae Min , Lee Kang‐Lok , Donohue Timothy J. , Roe Jung‐Hye
Published: June 2012

Numerous thiol‐reactive compounds cause oxidative stress where cells counteract by activation of survival strategies regulated by thiol‐based sensors. In Streptomyces coelicolor, a model actinomycete, a sigma/antisigma pair SigR/RsrA controls the response to thiol‐oxidative stress. To unravel its full physiological functions, chromatin immuno‐precipitation combined with sequence and transcript analyses were employed to identify 108 SigR target genes in S. coelicolor and to predict orthologous regulons across actinomycetes. In addition to reported genes for thiol homeostasis, protein degradation and ribosome modulation, 64 additional operons were identified suggesting new functions of this global regulator. We demonstrate that SigR maintains the level and activity of the housekeeping sigma factor HrdB during thiol‐oxidative stress, a novel strategy for stress responses. We also found that SigR defends cells against UV and thiol‐reactive damages, in which repair UvrA takes a part. Using a refined SigR‐binding sequence model, SigR orthologues and their targets were predicted in 42 actinomycetes. This revealed a conserved core set of SigR targets to function for thiol homeostasis, protein quality control, possible modulation of transcription and translation, flavin‐mediated redox reactions, and Fe‐S delivery. The composition of the SigR regulon reveals a robust conserved physiological mechanism to deal with thiol‐oxidative stress from bacteria to human.
Platelet‐derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα)‐expressing “fibroblast‐like cells” in diabetic and idiopathic gastroparesis of humans
Authors: Grover M. , Bernard C. E. , Pasricha P. J. , Parkman H. P. , Abell T. L. , Nguyen L. A. , Snape W. , Shen K. R. , Sarr M. , Swain J. , Kendrick M. , Gibbons S. , Ordog T. , Farrugia G.
Published: June 2012

Background  Emerging evidence suggests that “fibroblast‐like cells” (FLC) may play a role in the regulation of gastrointestinal (GI) motor function. FLC are ultrastructurally distinct from other interstitial cells, including interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC), and express small‐conductance Ca2+‐activated K+ channels (SK3). In mice, platelet‐derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα) antibody has also been shown to label FLC. The aims of this study were to determine the morphology and distribution of PDGFRα‐immunoreactive (ir) FLC in human gastric muscle and to determine if FLC are altered in gastroparesis, where ICC are reduced.

Methods  Full thickness gastric body biopsies from five healthy subjects, 10 diabetic, and 10 idiopathic gastroparesis patients were immunolabeled using SK3 and PDGFRα staining for FLC and Kit staining for ICC. Intramuscular FLC and ICC were quantified.

Key Results  Intramuscular PDGFRα‐ir cells had slender cell bodies and long, thin processes and were more abundant in the longitudinal compared with the circular muscle. In the region of myenteric plexus, FLC had smaller, rounder cell bodies with 3–4 processes and formed networks, often around ganglia. All SK3‐ir cell structures showed complete overlap with PDGFRα‐ir. FLC were in close proximity to ICC, but their cell bodies did not overlap. No differences were seen in the distribution, morphology, or overall numbers of FLC in gastroparesis patients.

Conclusions & Inferences  In conclusion, PDGFRα identifies FLC in human gastric smooth muscle. FLC were not altered in distribution or overall numbers in gastroparesis. Additional studies are required to determine their role in human GI function.
How positive and negative expectations shape the experience of visceral pain: an experimental pilot study in healthy women
Authors: Elsenbruch S. , Schmid J. , Bäsler M. , Cesko E. , Schedlowski M. , Benson S.
Published: June 2012

Background  In order to elucidate placebo and nocebo effects in visceral pain, we analyzed the effects of positive and negative expectations on rectal pain perception, rectal pain thresholds, state anxiety and cortisol responses in healthy women.

Methods  Painful rectal distensions were delivered at baseline, following application of an inert substance combined with either positive instructions of pain relief (placebo group, N = 15), negative instructions of pain increase (nocebo group, N = 17), or neutral instructions (control, N = 15). Perceived pain intensity, unpleasantness/aversion and urge‐to‐defecate, state anxiety and serum cortisol were determined at baseline, immediately following group‐specific instructions and on a second study day after the same instructions (test day). Rectal pain thresholds were determined at baseline and on the test day.

Key Results  Whereas perceived pain intensity was significantly decreased in the placebo group, the nocebo group revealed significantly increased pain intensity ratings, along with significantly greater anticipatory anxiety on the test day (all P < 0.05 vs controls). Cortisol concentrations were significantly increased in the nocebo group following treatment but not on the test day.

Conclusions & Inferences  The experience of abdominal pain can be experimentally increased or decreased by inducing positive or negative expectations. Nocebo effects involve a psychological stress response, characterized by increased anticipatory anxiety. These findings further underscore the role of cognitive and emotional factors in the experience of visceral pain, which has implications for the pathophysiology and treatment of patients with chronic abdominal complaints.
Characterization of two genes for the biosynthesis of the labdane diterpene Z‐abienol in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) glandular trichomes
Authors: Sallaud Christophe , Giacalone Cécile , Töpfer Romy , Goepfert Simon , Bakaher Nicolas , Rösti Sandrine , Tissier Alain
Published: June 2012

Leaves of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) are covered with glandular trichomes that produce sucrose esters and diterpenoids in varying quantities, depending on cultivar type. The bicyclic diterpene Z‐abienol is the major labdanoid present in some oriental tobacco cultivars, where it constitutes a precursor of important flavours and aromas. We describe here the identification and characterization of two genes governing the biosynthesis of Z‐abienol in N. tabacum. As for other angiosperm labdanoid diterpenes, the biosynthesis of Z‐abienol proceeds in two steps. NtCPS2 encodes a class‐II terpene synthase that synthesizes 8‐hydroxy‐copalyl diphosphate, and NtABS encodes a kaurene synthase‐like (KSL) protein that uses 8‐hydroxy‐copalyl diphosphate to produce Z‐abienol. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that NtABS belongs to a distinct clade of KSL proteins that comprises the recently identified tomato (Solanum habrochaites) santalene and bergamotene synthase. RT‐PCR results show that both genes are preferentially expressed in trichomes. Moreover, microscopy of NtCPS2 promoter‐GUS fusion transgenics demonstrated a high specificity of expression to trichome glandular cells. Ectopic expression of both genes, but not of either one alone, driven by a trichome‐specific promoter in transgenic Nicotiana sylvestris conferred Z‐abienol formation to this species, which does not normally produce it. Furthermore, sequence analysis of over 100 tobacco cultivars revealed polymorphisms in NtCPS2 that lead to a prematurely truncated protein in cultivars lacking Z‐abienol, thus establishing NtCPS2 as a major gene controlling Z‐abienol biosynthesis in tobacco. These results offer new perspectives for tobacco breeding and the metabolic engineering of labdanoid diterpenes, as well as for structure–function relationship studies of terpene synthases.
Rapid acute onset of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome in a lung transplant recipient after respiratory syncytial virus infection
Authors: Hayes D. , Mansour H. M. , Kirkby S. , Phillips A.B.
Published: June 2012

Bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) can have either an acute or chronic onset with an abrupt or insidious course. The diagnosis is typically achieved by physiological criteria with development of a sustained decline in expiratory flow rates for at least 3 weeks. We review the rapid development of acute BOS and bronchiectasis after respiratory syncytial virus infection in a lung transplant recipient, who had been doing well with normal pulmonary function for 3 years after lung transplantation.
Pharmacological normalization of circulation after acute brain death
Authors: STEEN S. , SJÖBERG T. , LIAO Q. , BOZOVIC G. , WOHLFART B.
Published: June 2012

Background

Circulatory instability is a serious problem after brain death in organ donors. The hypotension is often counteracted with infusion of large amounts of crystalloid solutions, which may impair lung function leading to rejection of the lungs as donor organs. The aim was to show that the circulation can be normalized pharmacologically for 24 h in pigs after total removal of the brain and brainstem by decapitation (between C2 and C3).

Methods

Twenty‐four 40‐kg pigs (n = 8 × 3) were included: non‐decapitated, decapitated, and decapitated with pharmacological treatment. All animals got the same basal fluid supply and ventilation. The pharmacological treatment consisted of the neuronal monoamine reuptake blocker cocaine and low doses of noradrenaline and adrenaline. Desmopressin, triiodothyroxine, thyroxine and cortisol were also given.

Results

After decapitation, a catecholamine storm occurred, with an increase of noradrenaline and adrenaline by a factor of 79 and 298, respectively. Thirty minutes later, the pigs were hypotensive. The median time to the aortic pressure that was less than 40 mmHg was 9:09 h (range 5:50 to 22:01). After 6 h, the concentration of thyroid hormones and cortisol was significantly reduced. With pharmacological treatment of decapitated animals, the aortic pressure, renal blood flow, creatinine, urine production, liver function and blood gases did not differ significantly from the non‐decapitated control animals.

Conclusion

Pharmacological substitution of pituitary gland function, blockade of peripheral catecholamine neuronal reuptake and low doses of catecholamines normalize circulation in decapitated pigs throughout a 24‐h observation period, whereas untreated decapitated pigs all develop severe circulatory collapse within 12 h.
Expression patterns of histone deacetylases in experimental stroke and potential targets for neuroprotection
Authors: Chen Yan‐Ting , Zang Xue‐Feng , Pan Jie , Zhu Xiao‐Lei , Chen Fei , Chen Zhi‐Bin , Xu Yun
Published: June 2012

Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors exert neuroprotection in both cellular and animal models of ischaemic stroke. However, which HDAC isoform (or isoforms) mediates this beneficial effect has not yet been determined.

In the present study, gene levels of the HDAC isoforms were determined in the mouse cortex using reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), whereas changes in the expression of individual zinc‐dependent HDAC family members were evaluated by western blotting, 3, 12, 24 and 48 h after cerebral ischaemia induced by transient middle cerebral artery occlusion in male Kunming mice.

The HDAC isoforms HDAC1–11 were all expressed in the mouse cortex and differentially affected by cerebral ischaemia. Notably, there was a substantial increase in HDAC3, HDAC6 and HDAC11 expression during the early phases of experimental stroke, indicating their contribution to stroke pathogenesis. Furthermore, induction of HDAC3 and HDAC6 in cortical neurons by ischaemic stroke was confirmed in vivo and in vitro using double‐labelled immunostaining and RT‐PCR, respectively. Therefore, small hairpin (sh) RNAs were used to selectively knock down HDAC3 or HDAC6. This knockdown appreciably promoted the survival of cortical neurons subjected to oxygen and glucose deprivation.

The findings of the present study demonstrate the expression patterns of HDAC isoforms during experimental ischaemic stroke. Furthermore, HDAC3 and HDAC6 were identified as potential mediators in the neurotoxicity of ischaemic stroke, suggesting that specific therapeutic approaches may be considered according to HDAC subtype.
Prognostic categories and timing of negative prognostic communication from critical care physicians to family members at end‐of‐life in an intensive care unit
Authors: Gutierrez Karen M
Published: June 2012

Negative prognostic communication is often delayed in intensive care units, which limits time for families to prepare for end‐of‐life. This descriptive study, informed by ethnographic methods, was focused on exploring critical care physician communication of negative prognoses to families and identifying timing influences. Prognostic communication of critical care physicians to nurses and family members was observed and physicians and family members were interviewed. Physician perception of prognostic certainty, based on an accumulation of empirical data, and the perceived need for decision‐making, drove the timing of prognostic communication, rather than family needs. Although prognoses were initially identified using intuitive knowledge for patients in one of the six identified prognostic categories, utilizing decision‐making to drive prognostic communication resulted in delayed prognostic communication to families until end‐of‐life (EOL) decisions could be justified with empirical data. Providers will better meet the needs of families who desire earlier prognostic information by separating prognostic communication from decision‐making and communicating the possibility of a poor prognosis based on intuitive knowledge, while acknowledging the uncertainty inherent in prognostication. This sets the stage for later prognostic discussions focused on EOL decisions, including limiting or withdrawing treatment, which can be timed when empirical data substantiate intuitive prognoses. This allows additional time for families to anticipate and prepare for end‐of‐life decision‐making.
Evaluation of Dang Van stress in Hertzian rolling contact
Authors: SANDSTRÖM J.
Published: June 2012

The equivalent Dang Van stress under Hertzian contacts is evaluated over the subsurface space using four computational approaches. The accuracy and computational efficiency of the different models is assessed. It is found that an approach consisting in finding the minimum circumscribed hypersphere to the deviatoric stress path in time gives a good trade‐off between accuracy and efficiency. It is also shown that a very computationally cheap approximation employing half the peak Tresca shear stress results in good agreements in the entire subsurface space for conditions relevant under wheel–rail contacts.
Anesthesia for children with pericardial effusion: a case series
Authors: Rawlinson Ellen , Bagshaw Oliver
Published: June 2012

Objectives and aims:  To review the anesthetic management of children requiring surgical intervention for pericardial effusion, determine the nature and frequency of complications and define risk factors that predict perioperative risk.

Background:  Anesthesia in the presence of a pericardial effusion may be associated with significant hemodynamic compromise particularly during induction. However, the literature specifically concerning children is limited to a single‐case report.

Methods:  A retrospective case review of children undergoing general anesthesia for surgical treatment for pericardial effusion between 1999 and 2008 at a single institution.

Results:  Sixty‐five children underwent 79 general anesthetics for surgical treatment for pericardial effusion. Median age was 4 years (2 weeks–16 years), and median weight 15 kg (range, 2.5–96 kg). Fifty‐five children (84%) developed effusions following cardiac surgery. The commonest induction agent was ketamine (25/65, 38%), and the majority of children (52/65, 80%) were intubated and ventilated for the procedure. Seven children (11%) suffered from eight major complications, and 14 children (22%) suffered from a minor complication. Major complications were more common in children with preoperative tachypnoea (P = 0.01) and cardiac tamponade on preoperative echocardiogram (ECHO) (P = 0.001). Preoperative hypoxia had a sensitivity of 92% and a positive likelihood ratio of 5.2 (95% CI 1.5–17.5) for predicting all complications.

Conclusions:  Anesthesia for pericardial effusion in children was associated with an adverse physiological event in one‐third of children. Major complications may be predicted by preoperative tachypnoea and cardiac tamponade on preoperative ECHO, and all complications may be predicted by preoperative hypoxia. The anesthetic technique included a variety of induction agents, and we cannot recommend a particular approach.
LOCAL AND STATEWIDE SMOKE‐FREE LAWS IN NEBRASKA: THE EFFECTS ON KENO ESTABLISHMENTS
Authors: DORITY BREE L. , MCGARVEY MARY G. , THOMPSON ERIC C. , SAINATH JYOTHSNA
Published: June 2012

This study examines how smoke‐free laws influence cross‐border keno shopping in Nebraska. We exploit smoke‐free law variation in timing and location to identify keno revenue gains and losses between neighboring smoke‐free and smoke‐friendly areas. We find the Lincoln municipal smoke‐free law reduced keno revenue by 23.5% in Lincoln and increased keno revenue by 30.0% in smoke‐friendly Surrounding Lincoln counties. The Omaha municipal smoke‐free law reduced keno revenue by 14.8% in Omaha and increased keno revenue by 7.1% in smoke‐friendly Surrounding Omaha counties. Following the Nebraska statewide law, no Nebraska areas had a smoke‐friendly advantage and keno revenue fell by an insignificant 1.0% and 5.2% in the surrounding Lincoln and Omaha counties, respectively. Our results may be of interest to local policy makers interested in understanding the amount of business activity and tax revenue that may be migrating out of a community or even the state. (JEL l18, K32)
Using Academic Research for the Post‐Implementation Review of Accounting Standards: A Note
Authors: EWERT RALF , WAGENHOFER ALFRED
Published: June 2012

The IASB and the FASB discuss formal processes for a post‐implementation review (PIR). This note contributes to this discussion in three ways. First, we argue that academics can, and should, play a significant role in a PIR. Second, we suggest a framework for empirical studies that are useful in a PIR, which enhances understandability of accounting research by standard setters. And third, we propose a process by which standard setters can take advantage of and embed academic research in a PIR.
Additional Evidence on Analysts’ Decision to Issue Disaggregated Earnings Forecasts: Strategic Biasing
Authors: HUNT HERBERT G. , SINHA PRAVEEN , YIN YUAN
Published: June 2012

This study examines why analysts issue disaggregated earnings forecasts to I/B/E/S. Some recent studies suggest that analysts with superior forecasting ability issue disaggregated earnings forecasts to build reputation in the marketplace and stop forecast disaggregation once their reputation has been established. Based on an analysis of I/B/E/S forecast data for U.S. firms from 1998 to 2008, we find that, in a given year, about 20%–34% of analysts disaggregate for some, but not for all the firms that they follow. This evidence of selective disaggregation by analysts suggests that reputation building alone does not fully explain the decision to disaggregate forecasts. We hypothesize that the decision to disaggregate earnings forecasts is at the firm‐level as well and is systematically related to the analysts’ bias in the issued forecasts. Our findings are that (a) analysts’ overall optimistic bias and forecast errors decrease monotonically with the level of forecast disaggregation, and (b) analysts that selectively disaggregate their forecasts for some firms or who do not persistently disaggregate a given firm's forecasts exhibit more positive bias and larger forecast errors. Our findings are consistent with the notion that the analysts who issue biased forecasts, for example, to curry favour with the management, are less likely to provide disaggregated information as part of the forecast.
American digger and archaeology (Respond to this article at http://www.therai.org.uk/at/debate)
Authors: Pitts Mike , Klat Dara
Published: June 2012

This editorial reflects on the nature of public archaeology. It looks at the relationship archaeologists have with popular TV, focusing in particular on the new series American digger by Spike TV, and Diggers by National Geographic, and reflects on the relationship archaeologists have with amateurs using metal detectors to uncover treasures.
‘Get me out of here’: Bail hearings of people indefinitely detained for immigration purposes (Respond to this article at http://www.therai.org.uk/at/debate)
Authors: White Caroline
Published: June 2012

This article is based on observation of 66 applications for bail brought by men detained indefinitely for immigration purposes. It argues that although the research is incomplete – the full stories of the applicants could not be known, neither the Home Office Presenting Officers nor the Immigration Judges could be ‘shadowed’ or even interviewed, court records are not public – there is value in doing ‘observation’ without ‘participation’ of institutions which act in the name of the public. This research shows that the outcomes of bail applications are not, as the public might imagine, always fair and unequivocal. All too often, they look like ‘the luck of the draw’, bringing the institution and its presiding officers into disrepute. The article illustrates this point using ‘dialogues’ from two bail hearings where the same applicant appeared before two different judges, with very different outcomes.
Saving nature or performing sovereignty? Ecuador's initiative to ‘keep oil in the ground’ (Respond to this article at http://www.therai.org.uk/at/debate)
Authors: Davidov Veronica
Published: June 2012

The Yasuní‐ITT proposal by the government of Ecuador to “keep the oil in the ground” in the untouched, highly biodiverse Ishpingo‐Tambococha‐Tiputini sector of Yasuni National Park in exchange for compensatory 3.6 billion dollars from the international community, has been interpreted and analyzed by academics and the media alike as a radical environmental intervention. In this article I argue that the ITT initiative it less of a radical environmental plan, and more of a performative articulation of post‐IMF nationalism. I problematize the notion that the ITT initiative heralds a shift to a radical new environmental paradigm, and argue that it should be understood primarily as a critique of Ecuador's experience with foreign debt and neoliberal restructuring.
Grassroot responses to the Tohoku earthquake of 11 March 2011: Overcoming the dichotomy between victim and helper (Respond to this article at http://www.therai.org.uk/at/debate)
Authors: Fisker‐Nielsen Anne Mette
Published: June 2012

This article examines the response of a large Buddhist organization, Soka Gakkai, to the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami of March 2011. While this response was significant, it has not been reported in Japanese national news. An important question that is emerging for development agencies and academics as they look back over the response to the crisis, is how people possibly survived for the first few days and months, given that government aid did not reach some people for up to two months. This article highlights one significant early response and points to the problem of how to overcome the victim/helper dualism which is rooted in much failing NGO aid and development projects.
Memory in the debris: The 3/11 Great Japan earthquake and tsunami (Respond to this article at http://www.therai.org.uk/at/debate)
Authors: Nakamura Fuyubi
Published: June 2012

In this narrative, I reflect on the relief activities that I was involved with in Minamisanriku, Miyagi, northeastern Japan, from late May until late August 2011, in the aftermath of the 3/11 Great East Japan earthquake and tsunami. Minamisanriku was one of the towns swept away by the tsunami. The debris was all around, which included not only the wreckage of buildings and ships, but possessions belonging to the victims. All these items were battered and left exposed to the open air. I focus on one of the relief activities – that of rescuing ‘objects of memory’, especially photographs, from the debris. In doing so, I consider the relationship between objects, images, and memory when people have lost virtually everything, as they did in this disaster.
Tripping over history: Same‐sex marriage in Portugal (Respond to this article at http://www.therai.org.uk/at/debate)
Authors: Vale de Almeida Miguel
Published: June 2012

In this narrative, the author reflects on his experiences as an anthropologist specializing in gender studies, and as an activist and an MP passing same‐sex marriage legislation in Portuguese parliament.
Alternative Trajectories: A comment on Miguel Vale de Almeida in this issue (Respond to this article at http://www.therai.org.uk/at/debate)
Authors: Hall Dorota
Published: June 2012

This is a comment on the narrative by Miguel Vale de Almeida in this issue. It points at difficulties of escaping from the dominant Anglo‐Saxon narrative on gay and lesbian experiences faced by those who undertake the issue of gay rights in countries outside the Anglo‐vernacular world. It also indicates the entanglement of the ‘gay rights’ discourse in spatial representations underpinned by the tendency to exercise the ‘othering’ and based on the secularist approach.
Econometric Analysis of the India–Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement*
Authors: Joshi Vivek
Published: June 2012

This paper investigates whether the India–Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (ISLFTA) has had trade creation or trade diversion effects on the rest of the world. Using data on tariffs at the six‐digit level of the Harmonized System classification for the period 1996 to 2006, the methodology of the present paper follows a study on the North American Free Trade Agreement by Romalis (2005) We use the commodity and time variation in the tariff preferences allowed under ISLFTA to identify its effect on sourcing of different products from the ‘control country’ to the ISLFTA region. Using a fixed effects model, we find that the ISLFTA has had small trade creation effects in the control countries.
ASEAN Economic Community: A General Equilibrium Analysis*
Authors: Petri Peter A. , Plummer Michael G. , Zhai Fan
Published: June 2012

The ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) is the largest integration effort attempted in the developing world; if realized, it will create a single market with the free movement of goods, services, foreign direct investment and skilled labor, and freer movement of capital encompassing nearly 600 million people. This study, a first attempt to evaluate the full benefits of the AEC, finds that the project could produce gains similar to those resulting from the European Single Market, amounting to 5.3 percent of the region's income. The benefits could be doubled if, as expected, regional integration also leads to new free trade agreements with key external partners. The whole region will share in these gains. There will be mild trade and investment diversion effects for some other countries, but the world will benefit too. Nevertheless, the AEC poses political challenges: the present study finds that the project will imply significant structural adjustments in several ASEAN economies.
Financial Determinants of Corporate R&D Investment in Korea
Authors: Lee Sanghoon
Published: June 2012

This paper investigates the relationship between corporate investment in R&D and finance. By using panel data on Korean manufacturing firms between 1999 and 2008, we find that R&D investment is sensitive to fluctuations in internal cash flow and that debt is more important than equity in financing R&D expenditure. This empirical result supports the traditional theory of financing hierarchy. In relation to equity ownership, the empirical result shows that ownership concentration and foreign ownership positively affect R&D investment, but institutional ownership does not show any significant effect on investment. This study synthetically analyzes the relation between finance and investment by simultaneously considering corporate finance, equity ownership structure, macroeconomic environments and the institutional setting of Korea.