bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new quantitative automatic method for the measurement of non‐rapid eye movement sleep electroencephalographic amplitude variability
Authors: FERRI RAFFAELE , RUNDO FRANCESCO , NOVELLI LUANA , TERZANO MARIO G. , PARRINO LIBORIO , BRUNI OLIVIERO
Published: November 2011

The aim of this study was to arrange an automatic quantitative measure of the electroencephalographic (EEG) signal amplitude variability during non‐rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, correlated with the visually extracted cyclic alternating pattern (CAP) parameters. Ninety‐eight polysomnographic EEG recordings of normal controls were used. A new algorithm based on the analysis of the EEG amplitude variability during NREM sleep was designed and applied to all recordings, which were also scored visually for CAP. All measurements obtained with the new algorithm correlated positively with corresponding CAP parameters. In particular, total CAP time correlated with total NREM variability time (r = 0.596; P < 1E‐07), light sleep CAP time with light sleep variability time (r = 0.597; P < 1E‐07) and slow wave sleep CAP time with slow wave sleep variability time (r = 0.809; P < 1E‐07). Only the duration of CAP A phases showed a low correlation with the duration of variability events. Finally, the age‐related modifications of CAP time and of NREM variability time were found to be very similar. The new method for the automatic analysis of NREM sleep amplitude variability presented here correlates significantly with visual CAP parameters; its application requires a minimum work time, compared to CAP analysis, and might be used in large studies involving numerous recordings in which NREM sleep EEG amplitude variability needs to be assessed.
Smoking abstinence and depressive symptoms modulate the executive control system during emotional information processing
Authors: Froeliger Brett , Modlin Leslie A. , Kozink Rachel V. , Wang Lihong , McClernon F. Joseph
Published: November 2011

Smoking abstinence disrupts affective and cognitive processes. In this study, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to investigate the effects of smoking abstinence on emotional information processing. Smokers (n = 17) and non‐smokers (n = 18) underwent fMRI while performing an emotional distractor oddball task in which rare targets were presented following negative and neutral task‐irrelevant distractors. Smokers completed two sessions: once following 24‐hour abstinence and once while satiated. The abstinent versus satiated states were compared by evaluating responses to distractor images and to targets following each distractor valence within frontal executive and limbic brain regions. Regression analyses were done to investigate whether self‐reported negative affect influences brain response to images and targets. Exploratory regression analyses examined relations between baseline depressive symptoms and smoking state on brain function. Smoking state affected response to target detection in the right inferior frontal gyrus (IFG). During satiety, activation was greater in response to targets following negative versus neutral distractors; following abstinence, the reverse was observed. Withdrawal‐related negative affect was associated with right insula activation to negative images. Finally, depression symptoms were associated with abstinence‐induced hypoactive response to negative emotional distractors and task‐relevant targets following negative distractors in frontal brain regions. Neural processes related to novelty detection/attention in the right IFG may be disrupted by smoking abstinence and negative stimuli. Reactivity to emotional stimuli and the interfering effects on cognition are moderated by the magnitude of smoking state‐dependent negative affect and baseline depressive symptoms.
Functional identification of a novel F‐box/FBA gene in tomato
Authors: Xing Lei , Li Zhengguo , Khalil Rasha , Ren Zhenxin , Yang Yingwu
Published: November 2011

In plants and animals, the SCF‐type ubiquitin protein ligases play an important role in many different physiological processes by regulating protein stability such as S‐RNase‐based self‐compatibility, flower development, hormone responses and meiosis. This study identified an SlFbf gene in tomato that encodes 381 amino acid residues containing a typical F‐box motif and an FBA_1 motif associated proteasome pathway; the transcripts of SlFbf was detected in all the tissues (root, stem, leaf, sepal, petal, stamen, pistil, green fruit, breaker fruit and red fruit), with the highest in stamen specifically during flowering stage; SlFbf responded to gibberellins, abscisic acid and light. Suppressed SlFbf leads to bigger pollen and less seeds showing that SlFbf might have an effect on fertilization through regulating stamen development. These findings provide more information about the functions of Fbf gene family.
Cognitions in bipolar affective disorder and unipolar depression: imagining suicide
Authors: Hales Susie A , Deeprose Catherine , Goodwin Guy M , Holmes Emily A
Published: November 2011

Hales SA, Deeprose C, Goodwin GM, Holmes EA. Cognitions in bipolar affective disorder and unipolar depression: imagining suicide.  Bipolar Disord 2011: 13: 651–661. © 2011 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objective:  Bipolar disorder has the highest rate of suicide of all the psychiatric disorders. In unipolar depression, individuals report vivid, affect‐laden images of suicide or the aftermath of death (flashforwards to suicide) during suicidal ideation but this phenomenon has not been explored in bipolar disorder. Therefore the authors investigated and compared imagery and verbal thoughts related to past suicidality in individuals with bipolar disorder (n = 20) and unipolar depression (n = 20).

Methods:  The study used a quasi‐experimental comparative design. The Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐IV was used to confirm diagnoses. Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered through questionnaire measures (e.g., mood and trait imagery use). Individual interviews assessed suicidal cognitions in the form of (i) mental images and (ii) verbal thoughts.

Results:  All participants reported imagining flashforwards to suicide. Both groups reported greater preoccupation with these suicide‐related images than with verbal thoughts about suicide. However, compared to the unipolar group, the bipolar group were significantly more preoccupied with flashforward imagery, rated this imagery as more compelling, and were more than twice as likely to report that the images made them want to take action to complete suicide. In addition, the bipolar group reported a greater trait propensity to use mental imagery in general.

Conclusions:  Suicidal ideation needs to be better characterized, and mental imagery of suicide has been a neglected but potentially critical feature of suicidal ideation, particularly in bipolar disorder. Our findings suggest that flashforward imagery warrants further investigation for formal universal clinical assessment procedures.
Evidence of associations between bipolar disorder and the brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene
Authors: Sears Catherine , Markie David , Olds Robin , Fitches Alison
Published: November 2011

Sears C, Markie D, Olds R, Fitches A. Evidence of associations between bipolar disorder and the brain‐derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) gene. Bipolar Disord 2011: 13: 630–637. © 2011 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objective:  Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has important roles in neural cell growth and differentiation. Despite multiple lines of evidence suggesting BDNF as a possible contributor to the pathogenesis of bipolar disorder (BD), the results of genetic association studies have been mixed. We hypothesize that BDNF gene polymorphisms may confer increased susceptibility to BD.

Methods:  Using a cohort of multiplex bipolar families, we performed family‐based association testing to look for associations between BD and eight single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from BDNF.

Results:  We found associations (p < 0.05) between BD and six of the eight SNPs analysed, including two SNPs not previously investigated in association studies. We were able to replicate associations previously found between BD and the Val66Met polymorphism of BDNF (rs6265) and the SNPs rs1519480 and rs12273363. We also found evidence of an association between rs11030107 and BD that was not found in a previous study.

Conclusions:  Our results support the hypothesis that some BDNF gene polymorphisms may be contributing factors in the pathogenesis of BD. Our study also adds to the body of evidence associating the functional Val66Met polymorphism of BDNF with BD.
Sensitivity to positive and negative feedback in euthymic patients with bipolar I disorder: the last episode makes the difference
Authors: Linke Julia , Sönnekes Christiane , Wessa Michèle
Published: November 2011

Linke J, Sönnekes C, Wessa M. Sensitivity to positive and negative feedback in euthymic patients with bipolar I disorder: the last episode makes the difference. Bipolar Disord 2011: 13: 638–650. © 2011 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objectives:  It is unclear whether abnormalities in cognition and motivation, such as altered feedback processing, observed during euthymia represent trait markers of bipolar I disorder (BD‐I) or scars from previous episodes that also occur in major depression (MD). The present research examines how previous episodes influence sensitivity to positive and negative feedback, applying multiple hierarchical regression analysis with number of past depressive and manic episodes, residual mood symptoms, affective quality of the last episode, time in remission, medication, illness severity, and age as predictors.

Methods:  The study included 23 euthymic patients with BD‐I, 19 remitted patients with MD, and 19 healthy persons who underwent a task which discriminates whether persons learn better from negative or positive feedback.

Results:  For both models, predicting sensitivity to positive [F(5,60) = 6.50, p = 0.001, adjusted R2 = 0.22] and negative feedback [F(5,60) = 5.12, p = 0.001, adjusted R2 = 0.22], the quality of the last affective episode was the only significant predictor. BD‐I patients who last experienced a manic episode learned well from positive but not negative feedback, whereas BD‐I patients who last experienced a depressive episode showed the opposite pattern.

Conclusions:  Our data identify differences in response to positive and negative consequences carrying over into the euthymic state that are qualitatively related to the polarity of the preceding episode, whereas other disease‐related variables had no significant influence. This sheds new light on previous inconsistent data in euthymic BD‐I patients and could also guide tailored treatment.
Six‐month functional outcome of a bipolar disorder cohort in the context of a specialized‐care program
Authors: Rosa Adriane R , Reinares Maria , Amann Benedikt , Popovic Dina , Franco Carolina , Comes Merce , Torrent Carla , Bonnín C Mar , Solé Brisa , Valentí Marc , Salamero Manel , Kapczinski Flávio , Vieta Eduard
Published: November 2011

Rosa AR, Reinares M, Amann B, Popovic D, Franco C, Comes M, Torrent C, Bonnín CM, Solé B, Valentí M, Salamero M, Kapczinski F, Vieta E. Six‐month functional outcome of a bipolar disorder cohort in the context of a specialized‐care program. Bipolar Disord 2011: 13: 679–686. © 2011 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objectives:  A marked disparity between functional recovery and symptomatic improvement has been demonstrated in bipolar disorder. However, most of the previous studies have been conducted in the United States, and there is little prospective research from Europe on this topic. The main objective of the present six‐month follow‐up study was to assess functioning in a sample of Spanish bipolar disorder patients following an acute episode or subsyndromal state. Additionally, we also evaluated the sensitivity to change of the Functioning Assessment Short Test (FAST).

Methods:  A total of 97 bipolar disorder patients with syndromal (n = 59) or subsyndromal (n = 38) symptoms were evaluated using the 17‐item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Young Mania Rating Scale. The FAST was the primary measure to assess multiple areas of psychosocial functioning. Functioning was evaluated at four different time periods: baseline, 21 days, three months, and six months.

Results:  A significant improvement in global functioning was found in the whole sample over the six‐month period, as indicated by a reduction of FAST total score (mean ± standard deviation) from 39.97 ± 15.10 to 30.65 ± 16.93 (F = 36.104, p = 0.0001). This was also evident in all areas of functioning studied. However, only 26.4% of remitted patients (n = 42) achieved functional recovery, while 79.6% of the total sample (N = 97) experienced clinical remission of acute symptoms.

Conclusions:  Although many patients presented syndromal recovery, only a minority of them achieved favorable functioning in multiple areas, even after specialized mental health care. Furthermore, the FAST scale was sensitive to detect minimal changes in functioning in both short (21 days) and long (6 months) periods, which may be relevant to the use of this scale in clinical trials.
Cutaneous metastasis from lung cancer: Retrospective analysis of 30 patients
Authors: Marcoval Joaquim , Penín Rosa María , Llatjós Roger , Martínez‐Ballarín Ignacio
Published: November 2011

Lung carcinoma is one of the most frequent sources of skin metastases in male patients. Our objective was to analyse the clinical and pathological features of 30 patients with skin metastases from lung carcinoma. Cutaneous biopsies codified as ‘skin metastasis from lung carcinoma’ during 1988–2009 at Bellvitge Hospital (Barcelona, Spain) were reviewed. The histological types of 30 lung carcinomas (29 men, 1 woman) were squamous cell carcinoma (10 cases), undifferentiated carcinoma (7), adenocarcinoma (6), small cell carcinoma (5) and large cell carcinoma (2). The most frequent clinical presentation was as a solitary nodule (16 cases), and the most frequent site was the head (13 cases). Cutaneous metastases were present at the time of diagnosis of the lung primary tumour in 66% of cases. Skin biopsy might be helpful to establish the histological type of tumour, and thus help with therapeutic decision‐making. Cutaneous metastases from lung cancer remain a poor prognostic feature.
HEAD‐TO‐HEAD COMPARISON OF PRACTICE WITH ENDOSCOPIC RETROGRADE CHOLANGIOPANCREATOGRAPHY COMPUTER AND MECHANICAL SIMULATORS BY EXPERIENCED ENDOSCOPISTS AND TRAINEES
Authors: LEUNG JOSEPH , LIM BRIAN , NGO CATHERINE , LAO WAI‐CHEUNG , WING LUK YIU , HUNG IVAN , LI MICHAEL , LEUNG FELIX W
Published: November 2011

Background and Aim:  The endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) mechanical simulator (EMS) and computer simulator (ECS) are described herein. No direct hands‐on comparison has been reported to reflect the perception of trainers and trainees regarding the efficacy of each model for trainee ERCP education. We compared the trainers' and trainees' assessments of the EMS and ECS for trainee education.

Methods:  Eighteen gastrointestinal trainees and 16 trainers with varying ERCP experience completed a questionnaire survey before and after practice with each simulator at hands‐on ERCP practice workshops. They carried out scope insertion, selective bile duct cannulation, guidewire negotiation of a bile duct stricture, biliary papillotomy and insertion of a single biliary stent using both simulators. Main outcome measurement was respondents' assessments of comparative efficacy of EMS and ECS practice for trainee education.

Results:  Compared to pre‐practice evaluation, both EMS and ECS received higher scores after hands‐on practice. Both trainers and trainees showed significantly greater increases in scores for EMS when compared with ECS in facilitating understanding of ERCP procedure, enhancing confidence in carrying out ERCP and the simulator as a credible option for supplementing clinical ERCP training (P < 0.05). Participants also scored EMS significantly higher in realism and usefulness as an instructional tool.

Conclusions:  Both computer and mechanical simulators are accepted modalities for ERCP training. The current data (based on a head‐to‐head comparison of hands‐on practice experience) indicate EMS practice is rated higher than ECS practice in supplementing clinical ERCP training. EMS offers the additional advantage of coordinated practice with real equipment and accessories.
Penile lichen sclerosus (balanitis xerotica obliterans)
Authors: Clouston David , Hall Anthony , Lawrentschuk Nathan
Published: November 2011

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

The clinical presentation and complications of lichen sclerosus are well known. What is less well known is the true incidence of the condition. The published figures are all based on attendance at general medical clinics or specialist clinics, but it is likely that the true incidence is much higher than this reported incidence as many men will not present to the doctor for treatment. The other uncertainty is the relationship of lichen sclerosus to the subsequent development of cancer of the penis. As pointed out in the paper, it is likely that between 4% and 8% of men with this condition will develop squamous cell cancer of the penis. However, it is unclear if lichen sclerosus itself causes the development of squamous cell cancer or if it is due to coexistent infection with human papillomavirus.

This review provides a concise summary of the clinical and pathological features of the disease and describes its current medical and surgical treatment. It brings together a number of papers which have addressed the association of lichen sclerosus with squamous cell carcinoma of the penis and shows that the likely incidence of carcinoma is approximately 4–8% in men with this condition.

Penile lichen sclerosus, also known as balanitis xerotica obliterans, is a chronic inflammatory condition of the penis which can occur at all ages. The inflammation leads to the formation of white plaques most commonly on the foreskin or penis, and can lead to inability to retract the foreskin or blockage to the flow of urine. Cancer may occur rarely.

Penile lichen sclerosus is a progressive, sclerosing, inflammatory dermatosis of the glans penis and foreskin which is of uncertain aetiology. Recent studies have shown a link between lichen sclerosus and squamous cell carcinoma of the penis. In this review, we discuss the clinical presentation, pathology and current approach to treatment of this condition.
Population‐based study of erectile dysfunction and polypharmacy
Authors: Londoño Diana C. , Slezak Jeff M. , Quinn Virginia P. , Van Den Eeden Stephen K. , Loo Ronald K. , Jacobsen Steven J.
Published: November 2011

Study Type – Symptom prevalence (population cohort)

Level of Evidence 1b

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

It is known that medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking and prescribed medications cause erectile dysfunction (ED). This has been studied at the molecular level and reported in population studies. The present study shows that, after accounting for known medical problems, there is a dose–response relationship, in which worsening degrees of ED are seen when a greater number of medications are taken, regardless if they are prescribed or over the counter.

The study can help primary care doctors and urologists to make a differential diagnosis of ED and it can also help improve patient's erectile function by tailoring and curtailing current medication use to maximize therapeutic benefit but minimize ED side effects in men, thus improving health‐related quality of life.

OBJECTIVE

To study the association between erectile dysfunction (ED) and polypharmacy use in a large, ethnically and racially diverse cohort of men enrolled in the California Men's Health Study (CMHS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Men from the Kaiser Permanente Southern California (KPSC) health plan, enrolled in the CMHS in 2002, had an age range of 45–69 years. ED and comorbidities of these subjects were identified by questionnaire responses.

The number of drugs taken was determined from the year before enrollment through electronic pharmacy records and questionnaire responses.

RESULTS

Among the 37 712 (KPSC) subjects, 10 717 (29%) reported moderate or severe ED.

Across all age groups, ED was more prevalent as the number of medications increased.

In men taking 0–2, 3–5,6–9 and ≥10 medications, the percentage of men reporting moderate ED was 15.9, 19.7, 25.5 and 30.9%, respectively (P < 0.001).

With adjustment for age, race, smoking, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, peripheral vascular disease, coronary artery disease and body mass index, men taking >10 drugs were more likely to have ED (odds ratio = 2.32, 95% confidence interval 2.14–2.52) with evidence of a dose–response relationship.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that the number of medications a man takes is associated with worse ED, even after comorbidities have been taken into account.
120‐W 2‐µm thulium:yttrium–aluminium–garnet vapoenucleation of the prostate: 12‐month follow‐up
Authors: Netsch Christopher , Pohlmann Laura , Herrmann Thomas R.W. , Gross Andreas J. , Bach Thorsten
Published: November 2011

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Thulium VapoEnucleation of the prostate (ThuVEP) has been introduced as a minimally invasive treatment modality of benign prostate obstruction (BPO). This study reports the largest series of patients with symptomatic BPO undergoing ThuVEP. Efficacy of this procedure was confirmed by prostate volume and PSA measurements at 12‐month follow up, which have not been reported after ThuVEP so far.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of 120‐W 2‐µm thulium:yttrium–aluminium–garnet (YAG) vapoenucleation of the prostate (ThuVEP) for patients with symptomatic benign prostatic obstruction.

METHOD

In total, 207 consecutive patients undergoing ThuVEP at our institution were evaluated prospectively. ThuVEP was carried out using the 120‐W 2‐µm continuous‐wave Tm:YAG laser. The enucleated tissue was then morcellated within the bladder.

Patient demographic, perioperative and 12‐month follow‐up data were analysed. The complications were assessed.

RESULTS

Mean preoperative prostate volume was 57.8 ± 31.5 mL. Total operation duration averaged 64.9 ± 29.9 min, and the enucleation time was 36.5 ± 20.1 min. The mean catheter time was 2.2 ± 0.6 days.

Thirteen (6.28%) patients required a second‐look operation in the immediate postoperative course (failed morcellation n= 1, clot retention n= 4, residual tissue at the apex of the prostate n= 8). Four patients needed blood transfusions (1.93%) postoperatively. In all, 147 (71%) patients were available for review at the 12‐month follow‐up mark.

Quality of life (4.4 ± 1.3 vs 1.2 ± 1.1), international prostate symptom score (21.9 ± 7.2 vs 5.1 ± 4), maximum urinary flow rate (9.4 ± 3.8 vs 23.5 ± 10.9 mL/s), postvoiding residual urine (159.2 ± 153.2 vs 26.7 ± 38.3 mL), prostate‐specific antigen (5.0 ± 5.2 vs 0.6 ± 0.5 ng/mL) and prostate volume (57.8 ± 31.5 vs 10.7 ± 4.4 mL) changed significantly (P= 0.000).

Median prostate‐specific antigen reduction and prostate volume reduction were 87% and 80% respectively at follow‐up. Urethral stricture and bladder neck contracture developed in 1.45% and 1.93% respectively of the patients.

CONCLUSION

120‐W ThuVEP is a safe and efficacious procedure for the treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic obstruction. The incidence of complications with ThuVEP was low.
The Competition for Pupillages at the Bar of England and Wales (2000–2004)1
Authors: Zimdars Anna K.
Published: November 2011

Fair entry into the legal profession promotes legal legitimacy and the inclusiveness of the administration of justice. This article asks which individual factors predict success in the competition for entry to the Bar of England and Wales. Using data from 2,178 British aspiring barristers, it finds that university attended and attainment at university and in the BVC were the strongest predictors of gaining pupillage. Ethnic minorities were initially disadvantaged in the competition for pupillages, but this became statistically insignificant when taking into account attainment and type of university. However, those aged 30 and above were still disadvantaged in securing pupillages when controlling for attainment and university. The article highlights the challenges of fair selection into a graduate‐entry legal profession. Entry is reliant on the profile of graduates emerging from the prior education system where ascribed characteristics such as ethnicity, attainment, and university type influence opportunities.
Managerial Autism: Threat–Rigidity and Rigidity's Threat
Authors: Muurlink Olav , Wilkinson Adrian , Peetz David , Townsend Keith
Published: November 2011

The global financial crisis had a sharply asymmetrical impact on the Australian economy, with a minority of firms growing rapidly during 2005–2010. These gazelle firms experienced internal stress – often positive stress or eustress – parallel to macroeconomic shocks, and these internal stresses were largely independent of external factors. Staw, Sandelands and Dutton's heavily cited threat–rigidity theory (‘Threat rigidity effects in organizational behavior: a multilevel analysis’, Administrative Science Quarterly, 26, pp. 501–552, 1981) suggests that, when exposed to threat, either internal or external, decision‐makers respond conservatively, adhering to previously learned solutions rather than responding innovatively. This study examines five young gazelle firms, established just prior to the economic downturn. It explores management responses to internal and external threats and suggests that rigidity plays a role as an independent variable as well as a consequence of crisis. Drawing on the literature on resilience of individuals in the face of trauma, the study finds that autistic managerial response in approaches to performance management in emerging firms during a crisis is likely to produce additional stress. The paper suggests an organizational model for response to stressors based on Lazarus and Folkman's cognitive appraisal model (Stress, Appraisal, and Coping. Berlin: Springer, 1984).
Exploring Over: The Presumed Identity of Emerging Technology
Authors: Gillier Thomas , Piat Gerald
Published: November 2011

While scientists are stepping up their efforts to develop new technologies, the ability of firms to determine the value of their technologies by identifying potential applications has become a major challenge. This article focuses on a particular phase of technology development: the emergence phase. When a promising new technology first sees the light of day in a fundamental research laboratory, its target markets often seem plentiful but are ill‐defined. The inability to produce prototypes or to identify potential users makes it difficult to explore potential commercial applications. On the basis of four micro‐nanotechnologies case studies conducted within a multi‐partner innovation project, this article aims to theoretically explain why the identification of applications from emerging technologies is not a trivial problem. That research analyses how technologists and non‐experts interact during creative investigations into new applications. It shows that the technologists are victims of a form of cognitive fixation. Indeed, their beliefs and activities are guided by a stable cognitive representation of their technology: the presumed identity of technology. Based on a recent design framework, C‐K Design Theory, the technological exploration process followed in our four case studies is modelled, and mechanisms to dismantle the presumed identity and to design an extended identity of technology are provided.
Solitary Waves and Their Linear Stability in Nonlinear Lattices
Authors: Hwang G. , Akylas T. R. , Yang J.
Published: November 2011

Solitary waves in a general nonlinear lattice are discussed, employing as a model the nonlinear Schrödinger equation with a spatially periodic nonlinear coefficient. An asymptotic theory is developed for long solitary waves, which span a large number of lattice periods. In this limit, the allowed positions of solitary waves relative to the lattice, as well as their linear stability properties, hinge upon a certain recurrence relation which contains information beyond all orders of the usual two‐scale perturbation expansion. It follows that only two such positions are permissible, and of those two solitary waves, one is linearly stable and the other unstable. For a cosine lattice, in particular, the two possible solitary waves are centered at a maximum or minimum of the lattice, with the former being stable, and the analytical predictions for the associated linear stability eigenvalues are in excellent agreement with numerical results. Furthermore, a countable set of multi‐solitary‐wave bound states are constructed analytically. In spite of rather different physical settings, the exponential asymptotics approach followed here is strikingly similar to that taken in earlier studies of solitary wavepackets involving a periodic carrier and a slowly varying envelope, which underscores the general value of this procedure for treating multiscale solitary‐wave problems.
Anti‐melanoma, tyrosinase inhibitory and anti‐microbial activities of gold nanoparticles synthesized from aqueous leaf extracts of Teraxacum officinale
Authors: Tettey C. O. , Nagajyothi P. C. , Lee S. E. , Ocloo A. , Minh An T. N. , Sreekanth T. V. M , Lee K. D.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

There has been a tenacious search for pharmaceuticals of natural origin, as they are cost‐effective and are noted for having little or no side effects. The rate at which diseases are developing resistance to synthetic drugs is quite alarming, and the side effects of these drugs remain an excruciating agony to the pharmaceutical industry. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have wide applications in current technology. However, their use in medicine has not been adequately explored. Chemical methods for the synthesis are associated with environmental benignity and tissue toxicity on in vivo administration. For the first time, we have synthesized AuNPs from leaf extracts of Teraxacum officinale that were found to have significant anti‐melanoma, tyrosinase inhibitory and anti‐microbial effects, and hence stand as promising candidates for use in cosmetics medical and food industries.
Anti‐oxidant defence mechanism in vitiliginous skin increases with skin type
Authors: Briganti S. , Caron‐Schreinemachers A.‐L.D.B. , Picardo M. , Westerhof W.
Published: November 2011

Background  Vitiligo skin shows different burning capacity in people with different phototype. In normal skin antioxidant status is correlated to skin phototype, but unexpectedly it appears that there is a gradual decrease in burning susceptibility of depigmented skin of individuals with increasing phototype (II→VI).

Objective  To assess if the antioxidant response in the lesional vitiligo skin is involved in those protection mechanisms. Moreover, a possible correlation between cutaneous and systemic endogenous antioxidants in vitiligo patients has been investigated.

Methods  We enrolled in the study 29 patients with active vitiligo, divided into five groups according to skin type (II to VI). We analysed reduced and oxidized glutathione (GSH and GSSG, respectively), ubiquinone (CoQ10), catalase (Cat), superoxide dismutases (Cu/Zn‐SOD and Mn‐SOD), GSH peroxidase (GSH‐Px), as indexes of chemical and enzymatic antioxidants, in suction blister roofs as well as in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNCs).

Results  The vitiligo patients showed an imbalance of antioxidant network, both in depigmented skin and PBMNCs. Interestingly, in vitiligo skin a phototype‐related increase of antioxidant enzyme activities (Cat, Mn‐SOD and GPx) and GSH amount have been observed. Similarly in PMBNCs Cat and total SOD activities, as well as GSH content progressively increased from skin type II to skin type VI. Endogenous antioxidants in vitiligo skin are correlated to those in PBMNCs, suggesting that systemic and epidermal antioxidant network functionalities are connected.

Conclusions  The correlation between antioxidant levels and clinical phototype confirmed the hypothesis that other factors than melanin determine largely the minimal erythema dose values in vitiligo lesional skin.
The effectiveness of social stories™ to develop social interactions with adults with characteristics of autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Samuels Rachel , Stansfield Jois
Published: November 2011

Accessible summary

 Social Stories™ were used to help three adults with autism and one with Prader–Willi syndrome to change their behaviour.

 The Social Stories were helpful for each person for a short time.

 The adults and staff helpers enjoyed using the Social Stories.

Most research into the effectiveness of Social Stories has focused on children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). This study examines the use of Social Stories with four adults with learning disabilities and social communication impairments characteristic of ASD. This study employed an N = 1 multiple‐baseline, across‐participant, AB design with fade and maintenance probe stages. Each participant was involved in two Social Story interventions. The intervention and data collection was carried out by support staff who knew the participants. Results found that all target behaviours showed positive change during at least one phase of the study, although data indicated a return towards baseline levels across all behaviours into the probe phase. Social Stories had positive effect on improving social interaction in adults with social interaction impairments, even though this effect was short‐lived. As the behaviours targeted were long standing, longer intervention which is context‐specific may enable more permanent changes to occur.
Biomass allocation to leaves, stems and roots: meta‐analyses of interspecific variation and environmental control
Authors: Poorter Hendrik , Niklas Karl J. , Reich Peter B. , Oleksyn Jacek , Poot Pieter , Mommer Liesje
Published: November 2011

We quantified the biomass allocation patterns to leaves, stems and roots in vegetative plants, and how this is influenced by the growth environment, plant size, evolutionary history and competition. Dose–response curves of allocation were constructed by means of a meta‐analysis from a wide array of experimental data. They show that the fraction of whole‐plant mass represented by leaves (LMF) increases most strongly with nutrients and decreases most strongly with light. Correction for size‐induced allocation patterns diminishes the LMF‐response to light, but makes the effect of temperature on LMF more apparent. There is a clear phylogenetic effect on allocation, as eudicots invest relatively more than monocots in leaves, as do gymnosperms compared with woody angiosperms. Plants grown at high densities show a clear increase in the stem fraction. However, in most comparisons across species groups or environmental factors, the variation in LMF is smaller than the variation in one of the other components of the growth analysis equation: the leaf area : leaf mass ratio (SLA). In competitive situations, the stem mass fraction increases to a smaller extent than the specific stem length (stem length : stem mass). Thus, we conclude that plants generally are less able to adjust allocation than to alter organ morphology.

Contents

Summary
30

I.
Allocation in perspective
31

II.
Topics of this review
32

III.
Methodology
32

IV.
Environmental effects
33

V.
Ontogeny
36

VI.
Differences between species
40

VII.
Physiology and molecular regulation
41

VIII.
Ecological aspects
42

IX.
Perspectives
45

Acknowledgements
45

References
45

Appendices A1–A4
49
Mode of delivery and postpartum emotional distress: a cohort study of 55 814 women
Authors: Adams SS , Eberhard‐Gran M , Sandvik ÅR , Eskild A
Published: November 2011

Please cite this paper as: Adams S, Eberhard‐Gran M, Sandvik Å, Eskild A. Mode of delivery and postpartum emotional distress: a cohort study of 55 814 women. BJOG 2011; DOI: 10.1111/j.1471‐0528.2011.03188.x

Objective  To assess the association between mode of delivery and maternal postpartum emotional distress.

Design  A prospective study of women from 30 weeks of gestation to 6 months postpartum.

Setting  Pregnant women in Norway during the period 1998–2008.

Population  A total of 55 814 women from the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study.

Methods  Emotional distress was reported in a short form of the Hopkins Symptom Checklist‐25 (SCL‐8) at 30 weeks of gestation and at 6 months postpartum. Information on mode of delivery was obtained from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway.

Main outcome measures  Changes in SCL‐8 score from 30 weeks of gestation to 6 months postpartum and presence of emotional distress at 6 months postpartum.

Results  Women with instrumental vaginal, emergency caesarean or elective caesarean deliveries had similar changes in SCL‐8 score between 30 weeks of gestation and 6 months postpartum, as compared with women with unassisted vaginal delivery (adjusted regression coefficient, 0.00, 95% CI –0.01 to 0.01; 0.01, 95% CI 0.00−0.02; and −0.01, 95% CI −0.02 to 0.00, respectively). The corresponding odds ratios (ORs) associated with the presence of emotional distress at 6 months postpartum (SCL‐8 ≥ 2.0) were: OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.86−1.18; OR 1.13, 95% CI 0.97−1.32; and OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.79−1.16, respectively. These estimates were adjusted for emotional distress during pregnancy and other potential confounding factors. Emotional distress during pregnancy showed the strongest association with the presence of emotional distress at 6 months postpartum (adjusted OR 14.09, 95% CI 12.77−15.55).

Conclusions  Mode of delivery was not associated with a change in SCL‐8 score from 30 weeks of gestation to 6 months postpartum or with the presence of emotional distress postpartum.
Upper abdominal cytoreduction and thoracoscopy for advanced epithelial ovarian cancer: unanswered questions and the impact on treatment
Authors: Fleury AC , Kushnir CL , Giuntoli II RL , Spirtos NM
Published: November 2011

Please cite this paper as: Fleury A, Kushnir C, Giuntoli R, Spirtos N. Upper abdominal cytoreduction and thoracoscopy for advanced epithelial ovarian cancer: unanswered questions and the impact on treatment. BJOG 2012;119:202–206.

Gynaecological oncologists, by conducting Phase II and III chemotherapy trials, have sought to improve survival in women with epithelial ovarian cancer. The greatest impact on survival has been the use of intraperitoneal chemotherapy in women who have had all visible disease removed. No change in drug regimen has had an impact on survival equivalent to that associated with complete cytoreduction or the use of intraperitoneal chemotherapy. Interestingly, these two treatment modalities (complete cytoreduction and intraperitoneal chemotherapy) have not been universally adopted. Most often it is the inability to achieve optimal cytoreduction in the upper abdomen that defines the limit of the cytoreductive effort, and ultimately the integration of intraperitoneal chemotherapy. The importance of identifying disease outside the abdominal cavity, along with achieving complete cytoreduction, is paramount, if the use of intraperitoneal chemotherapy is to be logically integrated in treatment algorithms for women with advanced‐stage epithelial ovarian cancer. This report summarises pertinent literature on upper abdominal cytoreduction, discusses surgical techniques and introduces new data on women with epithelial ovarian cancer undergoing thoracoscopy, suggesting consideration of its incorporation into the surgical management of advanced epithelial ovarian cancer.
A new Late Jurassic turtle from Spain: phylogenetic implications, taphonomy and palaeoecology
Authors: SLATER BEN J. , REOLID MATÍAS , SCHOUTEN REMMERT , BENTON MICHAEL J.
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  The Jurassic was an important period in the evolution of Testudinata and encompasses the origin of many clades, and this is especially true of Jurassic turtles from Western Europe. A new genus and species of Late Jurassic turtle, Hispaniachelys prebetica gen. et sp. nov. from the upper Oxfordian of the Prebetic (Southern Spain), is described on the basis of postcranial material. The specimen is the only known tetrapod from the Mesozoic of the Prebetic and the oldest turtle from southern Europe. A mosaic of characters indicates this is a new genus: it displays basal features including dorsal epiplastral processes/reduced cleithra, no medial contact of the extragulars and a long first thoracic rib, alongside derived characters including an absence of mesoplastra and the vertebral 3/4 sulcus crossing neural 5. The phylogenetic position of the new taxon is hard to resolve, and it might be either a paracryptodire or a basal testudine, but it is distinct from Plesiochelys. A complex taphonomic history is shown by a range of overlying grazing traces and bioerosion on the carapace. The carapace was subsequently overturned and buried ventrally up, terminating grazing activity, and was then bored by sponges before final burial. Scanning electron microscopy reveals phosphatic microspheroids associated with bacterial decay in the vascular cavities of the cancellous bone, suggesting the carapace may have acted as a closed microenvironment in which decay‐derived authigenic minerals formed.
Biliary dysplasia in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis: additional value of DNA ploidity
Authors: Halme Leena , Arola Johanna , Numminen Kirsti , Krogerus Leena , Mäkisalo Heikki , Färkkilä Martti
Published: November 2011

Background

Detection of biliary dysplasia in PSC is essential for proper timing of liver transplantation to prevent the development of cholangiocancer, which is considered a contraindication for liver transplantation in most centres. In patients with PSC, differential diagnosis of benign, premalignant and malignant biliary strictures is difficult.

Aims

This prospective study aimed to evaluate the role of DNA analysis in combination with brush cytology, scored ERCP findings, and tumour markers to detect hepatobiliary dysplasia and malignancy.

Material and methods

Brush samples for cytology and for evaluation of DNA content analysed with flow cytometry came from 102 consecutive PSC patients referred for ERCP. Symptoms, serum Ca19‐9 and CEA were determined at the time of index biliary examination. ERCP findings were scored for intra‐ and extrahepatic changes. The end‐points were liver transplantation or diagnosis of malignancy or dysplasia.

Results

Most of the patients were asymptomatic at the time of ERCP: 73% had no symptoms, and 12% had only mild symptoms. An aneuploid DNA content was evident in 20 (20%) patients, and cells suspected for malignancy in 22 (21%). Seven patients had both aneuploidity and cytology (7%) suspicious for malignancy. An end‐point, diagnosis of malignancy or liver transplantation was achieved in 42 patients. Combining DNA ploidity and cytology in patients at the end‐point, sensitivity was 72%, specificity 82%, positive predictive value 86% and negative predictive value 67%.

Discussion and conclusion

In this mostly asymptomatic PSC‐patient population, 33% demonstrated abnormal brush cytology or aneuploidity. Determining DNA ploidy and brush cytology during ERCP offers a useful tool for identifying those PSC patients who are at high risk of developing cholangiocancer.
Intravenous Immunoglobulin to Treat Severe Atopic Dermatitis in Children: A Case Series
Authors: Turner Paul J. , Kakakios Alyson , Wong Li‐Chuen , Wong Melanie , Campbell Dianne E.
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  Severe cases of atopic dermatitis (AD) may require systemic immunosuppression to achieve disease control. Unfortunately, some cases continue to be refractory to management or develop unacceptable adverse effects. There are limited reports of the use of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) in the treatment of severe AD, but results are inconsistent. In a retrospective study, we report 10 children with severe AD refractory to systemic immunosuppression and maximal topical therapy who were treated using IVIg. The children received monthly IVIg for an average of 24 months. This resulted in a significant improvement in symptoms, with fewer infection‐related exacerbations and hospitalizations, allowing systemic immunosuppression to be tapered. The effect was associated with a significant decrease in serum immunoglobulin E and was sustained after cessation of IVIg in 50% of cases. No significant side effects attributable to the IVIg infusions were noted. In this cohort of children with severe AD and recurrent cutaneous infections, IVIg provided an effective treatment with minimal side effects and significant benefits in school attendance and quality of life.
A Randomized Trial of a Web‐Based Intervention to Improve Migraine Self‐Management and Coping
Authors: Bromberg Jonas , Wood Mollie E. , Black Ryan A. , Surette Daniel A. , Zacharoff Kevin L. , Chiauzzi Emil J.
Published: November 2011

Objective.— To test the clinical efficacy of a web‐based intervention designed to increase patient self‐efficacy to perform headache self‐management activities and symptom management strategies, and reduce migraine‐related psychological distress.

Background.— In spite of their demonstrated efficacy, behavioral interventions are used infrequently as an adjunct in medical treatment of migraine. Little clinical attention is paid to the behavioral factors that can help manage migraine more effectively and improve the quality of care and quality of life. Access to evidenced‐based, tailored, behavioral treatment is limited for many people with migraine.

Design.— The study is a parallel group design with 2 conditions: (1) an experimental group exposed to the web intervention; and (2) a no‐treatment control group that was not exposed to the intervention. Assessments for both groups were conducted at baseline (T1), 1‐month (T2), 3‐months (T3), and 6‐months (T4).

Results.— Compared with controls, participants in the experimental group reported significantly: increased headache self‐efficacy, increased use of relaxation, increased use of social support, decreased pain catastrophizing, decreased depression, and decreased stress. The hypothesis that the intervention would reduce pain could not be tested.

Conclusions.— Demonstrated increases in self‐efficacy to perform headache self‐management, increased use of positive symptom management strategies, and reported decreased migraine‐related depression and stress suggest that the intervention may be a useful behavioral adjunct to a comprehensive medical approach to managing migraine.