bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Private‐Land Use, Livestock Management, and Human Tolerance on Diversity, Distribution, and Abundance of Large African Mammals
Authors: Kinnaird Margaret F. , O'brien Timothy G.
Published: October 2012

Successful conservation of large terrestrial mammals (wildlife) on private lands requires that landowners be empowered to manage wildlife so that benefits outweigh the costs. Laikipia County, Kenya, is predominantly unfenced, and the land uses in the area allow wide‐ranging wildlife to move freely between different management systems on private land. We used camera traps to sample large mammals associated with 4 different management systems (rhinoceros sanctuaries, no livestock; conservancies, intermediate stocking level; fenced ranches, high stocking level; and group ranches, high stocking level, no fencing, pastoralist clan ownership) to examine whether management and stocking levels affect wildlife. We deployed cameras at 522 locations across 8 properties from January 2008 through October 2010 and used the photographs taken during this period to estimate richness, occupancy, and relative abundance of species. Species richness was highest in conservancies and sanctuaries and lowest on fenced and group ranches. Occupancy estimates were, on average, 2 and 5 times higher in sanctuaries and conservancies as on fenced and group ranches, respectively. Nineteen species on fenced ranches and 25 species on group ranches were considered uncommon (occupancy < 0.1). The relative abundance of most species was highest or second highest in sanctuaries and conservancies. Lack of rights to manage and utilize wildlife and uncertain land tenure dampen many owners’ incentives to tolerate wildlife. We suggest national conservation strategies consider landscape‐level approaches to land‐use planning that aim to increase conserved areas by providing landowners with incentives to tolerate wildlife. Possible incentives include improving access to ecotourism benefits, forging agreements to maintain wildlife habitat and corridors, resolving land‐ownership conflicts, restoring degraded rangelands, expanding opportunities for grazing leases, and allowing direct benefits to landowners through wildlife harvesting.

Efectos del Uso Privado de Suelo, Manejo de Ganado y la Tolerancia Humana sobre la Diversidad, Distribución y Abundancia de Mamíferos Mayores Africanos
Combined Proteomic Analysis of Liver Tissue and Serum in Chronically Alcohol‐Fed Rats
Authors: Yamada Mako , Satoh Mamoru , Seimiya Masanori , Sogawa Kazuyuki , Itoga Sakae , Tomonaga Takeshi , Nomura Fumio
Published: October 2012

Background

Proteomic approaches may provide new insights into pathological conditions associated with alcoholism. The aim of this study was to conduct a proteomic analysis of liver tissue and serum in chronically alcohol‐fed rats using agarose 2‐dimensional gel electrophoresis (2‐DE) and 3‐step serum proteome analysis.

Methods

A total of 12 rats were pair‐fed nutritionally adequate liquid diet containing ethanol as 36% of the total energy or an isocaloric control diet for 2 months. Rat liver homogenates and cytosol fractions were subjected to agarose 2‐DE. Serum samples were subjected to 3‐step serum proteome analysis involving immunodepletion of abundant proteins followed by fractionation using reverse‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography and 1‐dimensional sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE). Candidate proteins were digested with trypsin and identified using mass spectrometry. Observed differences in protein expression levels were confirmed using Western blotting.

Results

A total of 46 protein spots were found to be differentially expressed in the liver homogenates and cytosol fractions of alcohol‐fed rats relative to pair‐fed controls. The most notable change was down‐regulation of a 29‐kDa protein, which was subsequently identified as carbonic anhydrase III (CA III). Down‐regulation of this protein in alcohol‐fed rats was confirmed by Western blotting. The messenger RNA level of CA III was decreased as well. In rat serum, a total of 41 proteins were differentially expressed. Of these proteins, only betaine–homocysteine methyltransferase (BHMT) was also found to be differentially expressed in the liver.

Conclusions

A combined proteomic analysis of liver tissue and serum in chronically alcohol‐fed rats revealed that the expression of CA III is significantly down‐regulated in the liver of alcohol‐fed rats. Our results also showed that BHMT expression is up‐regulated in both the liver and serum of alcohol‐fed rats.
Atypical Spatial Working Memory and Task‐General Brain Activity in Adolescents with a Family History of Alcoholism
Authors: Mackiewicz Seghete Kristen L. , Cservenka Anita , Herting Megan M. , Nagel Bonnie J.
Published: October 2012

Background

Altered behavioral performance and brain activation during spatial working memory (SWM) tasks have been demonstrated in individuals with an alcohol use disorder (AUD). It is possible that alterations in processing during SWM may be present prior to initiation of heavy alcohol use in adolescents with a family history of AUDs (family history positive [FHP]) and therefore represent a premorbid neural phenotype that could increase risk for developing an AUD. The goal of our study was to investigate group differences in brain activation during a SWM task between FHP adolescents and adolescents with no family history of AUDs (family history negative [FHN]), as well as examine the relationship between brain activation and individual differences in family history density (FHD) of AUDs.

Methods

Eighteen FHP and 16 gender and age‐matched FHN participants completed a SWM and vigilance task while undergoing a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scan.

Results

There were no group differences in task performance. The FHN group demonstrated expected greater activation during the SWM than vigilance condition in the right middle frontal gyrus and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, whereas the FHP group demonstrated comparable brain activation for both the more demanding and simple task conditions. Additionally, FHD was associated with greater activation of the right superior parietal cortex and less activation of the right cerebellum during the SWM task, but not during the vigilance task.

Conclusions

Results suggest FHP adolescents demonstrate alterations in activation of prefrontal regions that are related more generally to the maintenance of top‐down cognitive control and alterations in parietal and cerebellar regions that are specific to SWM. Alterations in top‐down cognitive control may be a general risk factor for FHP adolescents, whereas SWM‐specific alterations are seen as a function of family history loading.
Risk Preferences in Strategic Wildfire Decision Making: A Choice Experiment with U.S. Wildfire Managers
Authors: Wibbenmeyer Matthew J. , Hand Michael S. , Calkin David E. , Venn Tyron J. , Thompson Matthew P.
Published: October 2012

Federal policy has embraced risa management as an appropriate paradigm for wildfire management. Economic theory suggests that over repeated wildfire events, potential economic costs and risas of ecological damage are optimally balanced when management decisions are free from biases, risa aversion, and risa seeking. Of primary concern in this article is how managers respond to wildfire risa, including the potential effect of wildfires (on ecological values, structures, and safety) and the likelihood of different fire outcomes. We use responses to a choice experiment questionnaire of U.S. federal wildfire managers to measure attitudes toward several components of wildfire risa and to test whether observed risa attitudes are consistent with the efficient allocation of wildfire suppression resources. Our results indicate that fire managers’ decisions are consistent with nonexpected utility theories of decisions under risa. Managers may overallocate firefighting resources when the likelihood or potential magnitude of damage from fires is low, and sensitivity to changes in the probability of fire outcomes depends on whether probabilities are close to one or zero and the magnitude of the potential harm.
Dynamic Impacts of a Catastrophic Production Event: The Foot‐and‐Mouth Disease Case
Authors: Cordier Alexandre , Gohin Jean , Krebs Stephane , Rault Arnaud
Published: October 2012

In foot‐and‐mouth disease (FMD) free countries, the occurrence of an FMD outbreak is a rare event with potentially large economic losses. We explore the dynamic effects of an FMD outbreak on market variables and economic surplus taking into account the largely neglected issue of farm bankruptcy. Simulations are performed on a stylized agricultural economy, which is a net exporter before the outbreak. We find complex dynamic market effects when the farm credit market suffers from information imperfections leading to farm closure. Welfare effects are also dramatically altered. Domestic consumers may lose in the long run from an FMD outbreak because domestic supply contracts. On the other hand, farmers able to resist this event may ultimately gain. Our analysis also shows that these effects are not monotone, making any efficient policy response to this catastrophic event quite challenging.
Risk Finance for Catastrophe Losses with Pareto‐Calibrated Lévy‐Stable Severities
Authors: Powers Michael R. , Powers Thomas Y. , Gao Siwei
Published: October 2012

For catastrophe losses, the conventional risk finance paradigm of enterprise risk management identifies transfer, as opposed to pooling or avoidance, as the preferred solution. However, this analysis does not necessarily account for differences between light‐ and heavy‐tailed characteristics of loss portfolios. Of particular concern are the decreasing benefits of diversification (through pooling) as the tails of severity distributions become heavier. In the present article, we study a loss portfolio characterized by nonstochastic frequency and a class of Lévy‐stable severity distributions calibrated to match the parameters of the Pareto II distribution. We then propose a conservative risk finance paradigm that can be used to prepare the firm for worst‐case scenarios with regard to both (1) the firm's intrinsic sensitivity to risk and (2) the heaviness of the severity's tail.
Quantitative Risk Estimation for a Legionella pneumophila Infection Due to Whirlpool Use
Authors: Bouwknegt Martijn , Schijven Jack F. , Schalk Johanna A.C. , de Roda Husman Ana Maria
Published: October 2012

Quantitative microbiological risk assessment was used to quantify the risk associated with the exposure to Legionella pneumophila in a whirlpool. Conceptually, air bubbles ascend to the surface, intercepting Legionella from the traversed water. At the surface the bubble bursts into dominantly noninhalable jet drops and inhalable film drops. Assuming that film drops carry half of the intercepted Legionella, a total of four (95% interval: 1–9) and 4.5×104 (4.4×104 – 4.7×104) cfu/min were estimated to be aerosolized for concentrations of 1 and 1,000 legionellas per liter, respectively. Using a dose‐response model for guinea pigs to represent humans, infection risks for active whirlpool use with 100 cfu/L water for 15 minutes were 0.29 (∼0.11–0.48) for susceptible males and 0.22 (∼0.06–0.42) for susceptible females. A L. pneumophila concentration of ≥1,000 cfu/L water was estimated to nearly always cause an infection (mean: 0.95; 95% interval: 0.9–∼1). Estimated infection risks were time‐dependent, ranging from 0.02 (0–0.11) for 1‐minute exposures to 0.93 (0.86–0.97) for 2‐hour exposures when the L. pneumophila concentration was 100 cfu/L water. Pool water in Dutch bathing establishments should contain <100 cfu Legionella/L water. This study suggests that stricter provisions might be required to assure adequate public health protection.
Managing Risk at the Tucson Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol
Authors: Levine E. S. , Waters Julie F.
Published: October 2012

This article describes a risk analysis used to inform resource allocation at the Tucson Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, the busiest sector for alien and drug trafficking along the Southwest land border with Mexico. The model and methodology that underlie this analysis are generally applicable to many resource allocation decisions regarding the management of frequently occurring hazards, decisions regularly made by officials at all levels of the homeland security enterprise. The analysis was executed by agents without previous risk expertise working under a short time frame, and the findings from the analysis were used to inform several resource allocation decisions.
Wildfire Exposure Analysis on the National Forests in the Pacific Northwest, USA
Authors: Ager Alan A. , Buonopane Michelle , Reger Allison , Finney Mark A.
Published: October 2012

We analyzed wildfire exposure for key social and ecological features on the national forests in Oregon and Washington. The forests contain numerous urban interfaces, old growth forests, recreational sites, and habitat for rare and endangered species. Many of these resources are threatened by wildfire, especially in the east Cascade Mountains fire‐prone forests. The study illustrates the application of wildfire simulation for risk assessment where the major threat is from large and rare naturally ignited fires, versus many previous studies that have focused on risk driven by frequent and small fires from anthropogenic ignitions. Wildfire simulation modeling was used to characterize potential wildfire behavior in terms of annual burn probability and flame length. Spatial data on selected social and ecological features were obtained from Forest Service GIS databases and elsewhere. The potential wildfire behavior was then summarized for each spatial location of each resource. The analysis suggested strong spatial variation in both burn probability and conditional flame length for many of the features examined, including biodiversity, urban interfaces, and infrastructure. We propose that the spatial patterns in modeled wildfire behavior could be used to improve existing prioritization of fuel management and wildfire preparedness activities within the Pacific Northwest region.
Small Theories and Large Risks—Is Risk Analysis Relevant for Epistemology?
Authors: Ćirković Milan M.
Published: October 2012

Ought we to take seriously large risks predicted by “exotic” or improbable theories? We routinely assess risks on the basis or either common sense, or some developed theoretical framework based on the best available scientific explanations. Recently, there has been a substantial increase of interest in the low‐probability “failure modes” of well‐established theories, which can involve global catastrophic risks. However, here I wish to discuss a partially antithetical situation: alternative, low‐probability (“small”) scientific theories predicting catastrophic outcomes with large probability. I argue that there is an important methodological issue (determining what counts as the best available explanation in cases where the theories involved describe possibilities of extremely destructive global catastrophes), which has been neglected thus far. There is no simple answer to the correct method for dealing with high‐probability high‐stakes risks following from low‐probability theories that still cannot be rejected outright, and much further work is required in this area. I further argue that cases like these are more numerous than usually assumed, for reasons including cognitive biases, sociological issues in science and the media image of science. If that is indeed so, it might lead to a greater weight of these cases in areas such as moral deliberation and policy making.
Infertility: Evaluation and Initial Management
Authors: Koroma Lucy , Stewart Leslye
Published: October 2012

Treating the infertile client with competence and compassion is within the scope of practice for advanced practice clinicians. However, due to both a lack of emphasis on infertility treatment in many advanced practice education programs and confusion regarding diagnosis and treatment by many practitioners, infertility is often undertreated by these providers. A basic infertility evaluation, patient counseling, and prescriptive therapy with oral ovulation‐inducing agents by a knowledgeable practitioner is cost‐effective and may result in successful pregnancy in women who otherwise may not be adequately and quickly treated prior to referral to a reproductive endocrinologist. A diagnosis of infertility is often stressful and frustrating for a couple. Midwives and advanced practice nurses are uniquely qualified to provide both compassionate care and competent treatment during this time. This article provides the clinician with an overview of infertility diagnosis, evaluation, and initial management with lifestyle modifications and oral ovulation‐inducing agents.
Death Due to Apparent Intravenous Injection of Tapentadol
Authors: Kemp Walter , Schlueter Scott , Smalley Elizabeth
Published: October 2012

This case report describes a 34‐year‐old male who died as the result of tapentadol toxicity. This case apparently represents the first reported description of a death because of this drug. The toxicologic features of this case, namely concentrations of tapentadol in the femoral blood and heart blood, 1.05 and 3.20 mg/L, respectively, may assist other individuals in evaluating deaths where tapentadol concentration is a factor. Analysis of the blood based upon enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry revealed no other substance of significance, only nicotine and cotinine, and the autopsy findings were consistent with an opiate‐type drug overdose, and indicated no competing cause of death.
Cocaine produces conditioned place aversion in mice with a cocaine‐insensitive dopamine transporter
Authors: O'Neill B. , Tilley M. R. , Gu H. H.
Published: October 2012

Cocaine is an inhibitor of the dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin reuptake transporters. Because its administration would elevate signaling of all these three neurotransmitters, many studies have been aimed at attributing individual effects of cocaine to specific transmitter systems. Using mice with a cocaine‐insensitive dopamine transporter (DAT‐CI mice), we previously showed that cocaine‐induced dopamine elevations were necessary for its rewarding and stimulating effects. In this study, we observe that DAT‐CI mice exhibit cocaine‐conditioned place aversion (CPA), and that its expression depends on their genetic background. Specifically, DAT‐CI mice backcrossed to the C57Bl/6J strain background did not display a preference or an aversion to cocaine, whereas DAT‐CI mice that were on a mixed 129S1/SvImJ × C57Bl/6J (129B6) background had a robust CPA to cocaine. These results indicate that while inhibition of the DAT is necessary for cocaine reward, other cocaine targets and neurotransmitter systems may mediate the aversive properties of cocaine. Furthermore, the aversive effect of cocaine can be observed in the absence of a DAT‐mediated rewarding effect, and it is affected by genomic differences between these two mouse strains.
The combined effect of recombinant human epidermal growth factor and erythropoietin on full‐thickness wound healing in diabetic rat model
Authors: Hong Joon Pio , Park Sung Woo
Published: October 2012

Diabetic wound is a chronic wound in which normal process of wound healing is interrupted. Lack of blood supply, infection and lack of functional growth factors are assumed as some of the conditions that lead to non‐healing environment. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) acts primarily to stimulate epithelial cell growth across wound. Erythropoietin (EPO) is a haematopoietic factor, which stimulates the production, differentiation and maturation of erythroid precursor cells. This study hypothesised combining these two factors, non‐healing process of diabetic wound will be compensated and eventually lead to acceleration of wound healing compared with single growth factor treatment. A total of 30 diabetic Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into three treatment groups (single treatment of rh‐EPO or rh‐EGF or combined treatment on a full‐thickness skin wound). To assess the wound healing effects of the components, the wound size and the healing time were measured in each treatment groups. The skin histology was examined by light microscopy and immunohistochemical analysis of proliferating markers was performed. The combined treatment with rh‐EPO and rh‐EGF improved full‐thickness wound significantly (P < 0·05) accelerating 50% healing time with higher expression of Ki‐67 compared with single growth factor‐treated groups. The combined treatment failed to accelerate the total healing time when compared with single growth factor treatments. However, the significant improvement were found in wound size reduction in the combined treatment group on day 4 against single growth factor‐treated groups (P < 0·05). This study demonstrated that the combined treatment of rh‐EPO and rh‐EGF improved the wound healing possibly through a synergistic action of each growth factor. This application provides further insight into combined growth factor therapy on non‐healing diabetic wounds.
Randomised controlled trial comparing European standard class 1 to class 2 compression stockings for ulcer recurrence and patient compliance
Authors: Clarke‐Moloney Mary , Keane Niamh , O'Connor Veronica , Ryan Mary Anna , Meagher Helen , Grace Pierce A , Kavanagh Eamon , Walsh Stewart R , Burke Paul E
Published: October 2012

The aim of this study was to determine the rate of venous ulcer recurrence and the level of compliance in patients wearing European class 1 or class 2 compression stockings. A total of 100 patients with healed venous leg ulcers were recruited, and were randomised to either class 1 (n = 50) or class 2 (n = 50) compression stockings. Follow‐up was at 1 week, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months to monitor ulcer recurrence and compliance. Patients had a duplex scan to identify the source of venous incompetence. The rate of ulcer recurrence after 12 months was 16·1%, and the difference in recurrence rate between classes was not statistically significant (P = 0·287) although greater numbers in class 1 developed a recurrence. Participants (88·9%) were compliant; non‐compliant patients were at a significantly greater risk of recurrence (P≤ 0·0001). Thirteen patients had both superficial and deep incompetence; those randomised to class 1 stockings (n = 4) developed ulcer recurrence. Patients with a history of multiple episodes of ulceration were more likely to develop a recurrence (P = 0·001). The lowest venous ulcer recurrence rates were seen in patients who were compliant with hosiery regardless of the compression level. Patients with both superficial and deep incompetence had a lower rate of recurrence with class 2 compression.
Botulinum toxin type A in the healing of chronic lesion following bilateral spasticity of gluteus muscle
Authors: Cigna Emanuele , Maruccia Michele , Fanelli Benedetta , Scuderi Nicolò
Published: October 2012

Use of botulinum toxin is expanding as the clinical studies demonstrate new potential therapeutic applications. In rehabilitation, botulinum toxin is above all used as adjunct therapy for the treatment of spasticity, but it may prove useful for other atypical clinical situations. A 17‐year‐old man had a sub‐arachnoid haemorrhage following the rupture of cerebral aneurism. The patient presented gluteus maximus and medius bilaterally spasticity that produced a chronic lesion in the intergluteal cleft, a flexed wrist and a flexed elbow. As treatment for this spasticity, a total of 100 U botulinum toxin type A were injected into the glutei muscles. This treatment allowed for application of topical medication and subsequently, chronic lesion healing. Botulinum toxin A may be an important therapeutic aid for clinicians faced with treating persistent pathological conditions caused by spasticity.
Growth and Application of ZnO Nanostructures
Authors: Sahu D. R. , Liu Chuan‐Pu , Wang Ruey‐Chi , Kuo Chien‐Lin , Huang Jow‐Lay
Published: October 2012

Nanostructures are the building blocks of future nanodevices and thus methods for fabricating nanostructures of various materials in various forms are fundamentally important. Among those nanostructures ZnO has received much attention over the past few years due to the wide range of research by many different groups focused on different novel nanostructures with different properties. Although ZnO nanowires have been intensively studied, there are only a few methods that showed promising characteristics for practical applications. Without much effort, it can be grown in many different nanostructure forms, thus allowing various novel devices to be achieved. In this study, we intend to review those methods that enable nanostructure growth to be more controllable and feasible for applications. The methods for fabricating ZnO nanostructures are introduced in the first part. In the second part, the application of those nanostructures are mentioned and explained. Finally, the future realization of nanodevices is discussed.
Ammonia removal from aqueous solution by membrane distillation
Authors: Duong Tuan , Xie Zongli , Ng Derrick , Hoang Manh
Published: October 2012

Environmental regulation, increased pressure on water resources and rising cost for wastewater discharges make wastewater treatment for recycling an essential investment for many industries. Ammonia is a major pollutant in many industrial and agricultural wastewaters, and its elimination is essential for wastewater to be reused or meeting local discharge standards. In this study, the removal of ammonia from dilute aqueous solution has been investigated using sweep gas and vacuum membrane distillation (SGMD and VMD). Factors that affect the separation process such as feed and air flow rates, vacuum degree and feed temperature have been investigated. Overall, mass transfer coefficients (Kov) were calculated, and the results indicated that Kov for VMD is higher than that for SGMD under similar operation. Overall, ammonia mass transfer coefficient up to 12.06 × 10−5 and 5.63 × 10−5 m/s can be achieved for VMD and SGMD, respectively. The ammonia removal efficiency was enhanced by increasing sweep gas flow rate or by decreasing downstream pressure.
James Beattie and the Progress of Genius in the Aberdeen Enlightenment
Authors: YOUNG RONNIE
Published: October 2012

James Beattie's The Minstrel is often viewed as a proto‐Romantic work for its portrayal of the developing genius of Edwin. In this article I show how Beattie's exploration of genius also has a particular connection to the intellectual culture of the Aberdeen Enlightenment, which was responsible for producing leading works on genius during the late eighteenth century. This article examines the influence of Marischal College in shaping the analysis of genius during the period. It further demonstrates the impact of the Aberdeen Philosophical Society on Beattie's thought about genius as it appears in his verse and later critical writing.
Treatment of Proximal Humerus Fractures with the Stryker T2 Proximal Humeral Nail: A Study of 61 Cases
Authors: Witney-Lagen Caroline , Datir Sandeep , Kumar Vinod , Venkateswaran Balachandran
Published: October 2012

Background

Surgical treatment of displaced proximal humerus fractures remains controversial. There is little guidance on which patients are likely to do well with humeral nailing. Therefore we present our study evaluating the Stryker T2 proximal humeral nail (T2-PHN).

Methods

Sixty-one consecutive patients with acute unilateral displaced proximal humerus fractures were treated with the T2-PHN and followed up for a mean of 19 months. There were 46 females and 15 males with mean age 68 (range 36–97). By Neer's classification there were 25 two-part, 28 three-part and 8 four-part fractures.

Results

Union occurred at a mean of 3 months. Fifty-five patients had Constant-Murley scores with a mean score of 64.9. Mean Constant-Murley was 59.9 for over 70s, 69.7 in under 70s, 68.0 in 2-part fractures, 67.5 in 3-part fractures, 36.6 in 4-part fractures, 50.6 in post-operative varus, 73.5 in post-operative neutral, 72.7 in post-operative valgus, 55.5 in medial metaphyseal comminution and 69.5 without comminution. Fifty-four patients had Oxford Shoulder scores with a mean score of 21.7.

Conclusions

The T2-PHN has a learning curve. Important points include adequate recessing of the nail tip and suturing of tuberosities. The best results can be expected in under 70s, 2 and 3-part fractures, patients without medial metaphyseal comminution and patients with neutral post-operative neck-shaft alignment.
The Arkansas Valley “Super Ditch”— An Analysis of Potential Economic Impacts1
Authors: McMahon Tyler G. , Smith Mark Griffin
Published: October 2012

McMahon, Tyler G. and Mark Griffin Smith, 2012. The Arkansas Valley “Super Ditch”— An Analysis of Potential Economic Impacts. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 00(0):000‐000. 1‐12. DOI: 10.1111/jawr.12005

Abstract:  In Colorado’s Arkansas River basin, urban growth and harsh farming conditions have resulted in water transfers from agricultural to urban uses. Several studies have shown that these transfers have significant secondary economic impacts associated with the removal of irrigated land from production. In response, new methods of sharing water are being developed to allow water transfers that benefit both farm and urban economies, compared with previous permanent transfers that negatively impacted surrounding farm communities. One such project currently under development is the Arkansas Valley “Super Ditch,” which is a rotational crop fallowing plan based on long‐term water leasing designed to provide an annual supply of 25,000 acre‐feet of water (31.6 Mm3). This article analyzes the net benefits of implementing the “Super Ditch” for both the farmers and the surrounding community.
Early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder: stability and change in clinical diagnosis and symptom presentation
Authors: Guthrie Whitney , Swineford Lauren B. , Nottke Charly , Wetherby Amy M.
Published: October 2012

Background:  Although a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) appears to be stable in children as young as age three, few studies have explored stability of a diagnosis in younger children. Predictive value of diagnostic tools for toddlers and patterns of symptom change are important considerations for clinicians making early diagnoses. Most findings come from high‐risk samples, but reports on children screened in community settings are also needed.

Methods:  Stability of diagnosis and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Toddler Module (ADOS‐T) classifications and scores was examined across two time points in a sample of 82 children identified through the FIRST WORDS® Project. Children received two comprehensive diagnostic evaluations at average ages of 19.39 (SD = 2.12) and 36.89 (SD = 3.85) months.

Results:  Stability was 100% when confirming and ruling out a diagnosis of ASD based on a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation that included clinic and home observations, although diagnosis was initially deferred for 17% of the sample. Receiver Operating Characteristic curves revealed excellent sensitivity and acceptable specificity for the ADOS‐T compared to concurrent diagnosis. Logistic regressions indicated good predictive value of initial ADOS‐T scores for follow‐up diagnosis. Finally, both ASD and Non‐ASD children demonstrated a decrease in Social Affect scores (i.e., improvement), whereas children with ASD demonstrated an increase in Restricted and Repetitive Behavior scores (i.e., worsening), changes that were accounted for by nonverbal developmental level in mixed model analyses.

Conclusions:  Short‐term stability was documented for children diagnosed at 19 months on average, although a minority of children initially showed unclear diagnostic presentations. Findings highlight utility of the ADOS‐T in making early diagnoses and predicting follow‐up diagnoses. Children with ASD demonstrated improvement in social communication behaviors and unfolding of repetitive behaviors, suggesting that certain early patterns of change in symptoms may be characteristic of ASD.
Bacteriological aspects of Darier’s disease
Authors: Dodiuk‐Gad R. , Cohen‐Barak E. , Ziv M. , Shani‐Adir A. , Shalev S. , Chazan B. , Raz R. , Colodner R. , Amichai B. , Zlotogorski A. , Keness Y. , Rozenman D.
Published: October 2012

Background  There are no established data on the prevalence of bacterial colonization of lesional skin, nares and perineum in Darier’s disease (DD), or its contribution to the clinical manifestations of the disease.

Objective  To determine the prevalence of bacterial colonization of lesional skin and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) in nares and perineum in 75 patients with DD, the association of these parameters with disease and patient characteristics, and the features of the bacterial skin infection in this group.

Methods  Medical interviews and physical examinations were performed. Bacteria were isolated from swabs taken from lesional skin, nares and perineum.

Results  S. aureus was isolated in 68%, 47% and 22% of lesional skin, nares and perineum cultures respectively. Subjects with positive S. aureus culture from lesional skin and/or nares had a statistically significant higher percentage of skin area affected and a more severe disease than patients with negative culture. Thirty of the 75 patients (40%) recalled bacterial skin infection, most often on the chest.

Conclusions  Patients with DD have high prevalence of S. aureus colonization in lesional skin and nares, with a correlation between disease severity and extent of the colonization. Further studies examining the consequences of S. aureus eradication in those sites may establish the need for S. aureus lesional skin and nares colonization screening and eradication as part of the treatment of DD exacerbations.
IMMIGRANT ENCLAVES AND CRIME*
Authors: Bell Brian , Machin Stephen
Published: October 2012

ABSTRACT We study the link between neighborhood immigrant concentration and crime in England. Over previous decades there has been a significant increase in the number of immigrant enclaves, where immigrants account for a substantial fraction of the local population. Using both recorded crime and self‐reported crime victimization data, we find that crime is significantly lower in those neighborhoods with sizeable immigrant population shares. The effect is nonlinear and only becomes significant in enclaves. The crime reducing effect is substantially enhanced if the enclave is composed of immigrants from the same ethnic background. We discuss some possible mechanisms for the results we observe.
IMMIGRATION AND FIRM EXPANSION*
Authors: Olney William W.
Published: October 2012

ABSTRACT Research generally focuses on how immigration affects native workers, while the impact of immigration on domestic firms is often overlooked. This paper addresses this important omission by examining whether firms respond to immigration by expanding their production activities within a city in order to utilize the abundant supply of low‐skilled workers. Using data on immigration and the universe of establishments in U.S. cities, the results indicate that firms respond to immigration at the extensive margin by increasing the number of establishments. Not surprisingly, immigration has a more positive impact on the number of establishments that are small in size and in relatively mobile, low‐skill intensive industries. Additional evidence indicates that immigration has little impact on employment within existing establishments, the intensive margin, or on the number of establishments in service industries which may expand simply due to immigrant consumption.
Leaders’ Impact on Public Spending Priorities: The Case of the German Laender
Authors: Hayo Bernd , Neumeier Florian
Published: October 2012

We examine determinants of the composition of public expenditure in the German Laender (states) over the period 1992–2008, as the Laender exhibit a high degree of institutional and political homogeneity and are endowed with extensive fiscal competences. Our prime contribution is an investigation into how political leaders’ socioeconomic background influences public spending priorities. Applying sociological theory, we link preferences for the composition of public spending to social status. In contrast to approaches relying on political budget cycles or partisan theory, we find strong and theory‐consistent evidence that prime ministers tend to favour fiscal policies supporting the social class in which they are socialised. Governments led by prime ministers from a poor socioeconomic background spend significantly more on social security, education, health, infrastructure, and public safety.
A yeast model of optineurin proteinopathy reveals a unique aggregation pattern associated with cellular toxicity
Authors: Kryndushkin Dmitry , Ihrke Gudrun , Piermartiri Tetsade C. , Shewmaker Frank
Published: October 2012

Many neurodegenerative diseases including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are linked to the accumulation of specific protein aggregates in affected regions of the nervous system. SOD1, TDP‐43, FUS and optineurin (OPTN) proteins were identified to form intraneuronal inclusions in ALS patients. In addition, mutations in OPTN are associated with both ALS and glaucoma. As the pathological role of OPTN in neuronal degeneration remains unresolved, we created a yeast model to study its potential for aggregation and toxicity. We observed that both wild type and disease‐associated mutants of OPTN form toxic non‐amyloid aggregates in yeast. Similar to reported cell culture and mouse models, the OPTN E50K mutant shows enhanced toxicity in yeast, implying a conserved gain‐of‐function mechanism. Furthermore, OPTN shows a unique aggregation pattern compared to other disease‐related proteins in yeast. OPTN aggregates colocalize only partially with the insoluble protein deposit (IPOD) site markers, but coincide perfectly with the prion seed‐reducing protein Btn2 and several other aggregation‐prone proteins, suggesting that protein aggregates are not limited to a single IPOD site. Importantly, changes in the Btn2p level modify OPTN toxicity and aggregation. This study generates a mechanistic framework for investigating how OPTN may trigger pathological changes in ALS and other OPTN‐linked neurodegenerative disorders.
Current Role of Atrioventricular Junction (AVJ) Ablation
Authors: HOFFMAYER KURT S. , SCHEINMAN MELVIN
Published: October 2012

Atrioventricular junction ablation with permanent pacemaker insertion is a highly effective treatment approach in patients with atrial fibrillation that is resistant to other treatment modalities, especially in the elderly or those with severe comorbidities. This effect likely reflects reversal of rapid ventricular rates and regularizing ventricular rates. There is increasing evidence that cardiac resynchronization therapy devices may be beneficial in selected populations after atrioventricular node ablation. The limitations of this approach include continued need for anticoagulation and lifelong pacemaker therapy.
Effect of 3B, 5A and 3A QTL for Fusarium head blight resistance on agronomic and quality performance of Canadian winter wheat
Authors: Tamburic‐Ilincic Ljiljana
Published: October 2012

The objectives of this study were to investigate (i) the correlations between Fusarium head blight (FHB) index, deoxynivalenol (DON) accumulation and percentage of Fusarium‐damaged kernels (FDK) with agronomic and quality traits and (ii) the effect associated with the presence of single QTLs for FHB resistance on agronomic and quality traits in winter wheat. The population was derived from the cross between ‘RCATL33' (FHB resistance derived from ‘Sumai 3’ and ‘Frontana’) and ‘RC Strategy’. Parental lines and recombinant inbred lines (RILs) were genotyped with SSR markers associated with the 3B, 5A and 3A QTLs. The population was planted in FHB‐inoculated nurseries and in agronomy trials. Lines in the 3B QTL class had the lowest FHB index, DON content and FDK level and did not have a significantly lower yield, thousand kernel weight or protein content compared with the lines grouped in other QTL classes (including no QTL class). Marker‐assisted selection of the 3B QTL for FHB resistance into high‐yielding FHB‐susceptible winter wheat is the recommended approach for the development of lines with increased FHB resistance without significant yield and quality penalties.
The Black Bag
Authors: Snow Helen
Published: October 2012

In the early‐ to mid‐twentieth century, stories about nursing practice submitted by nurses frequently appeared in Public Health Nursing. The article reprinted here is an example of this genre of publications. Originally published in April 1936, this article tells the story of a day in the work of one public health nurse as she moves about the city making home visits. In this article, Snow (1936) used personification of the iconic black bag to tell her story. Using this technique she brings to life the nuances of her day, the personalities of her patients, and the importance of the black bag to the work of public health nurses. What did nurses learn from stories such as this one? Themes embedded in this story reflect the role of the Public Health Nurse (PHN), as well as the environment in which she worked. For instance, in this story we learn that not only was the PHN a welcomed visitor in the homes of families struggling with health problems, but that she brought order out of chaos, as illustrated in “The New Arrival”. “The Black Bag” also highlights the humor nurses experienced in their encounters with families, as well as the pathos in other situations. Stories served as a vehicle for nurses to share and learn about both the common elements of their work, as well as the unique features related to location and environment, such as rural and urban locales.
Exchange Rate Asymmetry and Flexible Exchange Rates under Inflation Targeting Regimes: Evidence from Four East and Southeast Asian Countries
Authors: Pontines Victor , Siregar Reza Y.
Published: October 2012

While many have underscored the role of a flexible exchange rate policy under an inflation targeting (IT) regime, very few studies have examined what actually happens to exchange rate policy once the emerging market announces that it will adopt inflation targeting. The central contention of this paper is that while the adoption of an inflation targeting (IT) policy may lead to more flexible exchange rate movements, for various reasons it is possible that the degree of flexibility will be significantly higher on one side of the market. In this study, we demonstrate that four Asian economies—namely, Indonesia, Korea, the Philippines and Thailand—whom were among the first group of emerging markets to embrace the inflation targeting framework of monetary policy, tend to adopt a form of asymmetrical exchange rate behavior, wherein appreciation pressures are restrained more substantially than depreciation pressures.
A Note on Forecasting Emerging Market Exchange Rates: Evidence of Anti‐herding
Authors: Pierdzioch Christian , Rülke Jan‐Christoph , Stadtmann Georg
Published: October 2012

Using survey forecasts of a large number of Asian, European, and South American emerging market exchange rates, we studied empirically whether evidence of herding or anti‐herding behavior of exchange‐rate forecasters can be detected in the cross‐section of forecasts. Emerging market exchange‐rate forecasts are consistent with herding (anti‐herding) if forecasts are biased towards (away from) the consensus forecast. Our empirical findings provide strong evidence of anti‐herding of emerging market exchange‐rate forecasters.
The Impact of Migrant Remittances on Economic Growth: Evidence from South Asia
Authors: Cooray Arusha
Published: October 2012

Incorporating migrant remittances among other variables into a growth model, and employing panel data over the 1970–2008 period, this study investigates the impact of migrant remittances on economic growth in South Asia. Migrant remittances are found to have a significant positive effect on economic growth. A significant positive interactive effect of remittances on economic growth is detected through education and financial sector development.
Tough Choices: Dialysis, Palliative Care, or a Third Option for Elderly ESRD
Authors: Williams Mark E.
Published: October 2012

Dialysis should not be presumed to be the treatment of choice for all elderly chronic kidney disease stage 5 patients. Nondialysis active medical management, as an alternative to dialysis or palliative care, is a reasonable alternative in select cases. Early referral of CKD 5 elderly patients may lead to early initiation of dialysis, which may not be advantageous; it also provides an opportunity to institute active management as a treatment alternative. The informed decision to proceed with dialysis must involve both an assessment of evidence‐based outcomes applicable to the patient, and allowance of patient preference. Prognostic tools are increasingly sought to aid in decision‐making for elderly CKD 5 patients. Chronological age alone is not a sufficient predictor of benefit from dialysis treatments, according to observational studies and limited clinical trial data. The survival advantage of dialysis appears to be lost in patients with high levels of comorbidity. Establishing patient preference is an imperfect process, and many patients appear to regret their decision to undergo dialysis. With active medical management, efforts shift from prolonging life to emphasis on symptom control, dietary and medical treatment, and quality of life. Patient survival time can be remarkably long.
Disrupting the cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase 1 gene (BdCAD1) leads to altered lignification and improved saccharification in Brachypodium distachyon
Authors: Bouvier d'Yvoire Madeleine , Bouchabke‐Coussa Oumaya , Voorend Wannes , Antelme Sébastien , Cézard Laurent , Legée Frédéric , Lebris Philippe , Legay Sylvain , Whitehead Caragh , McQueen‐Mason Simon J. , Gomez Leonardo D. , Jouanin Lise , Lapierre Catherine , Sibout Richard
Published: October 2012

Brachypodium distachyon (Brachypodium) has been proposed as a model for grasses, but there is limited knowledge regarding its lignins and no data on lignin‐related mutants. The cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD) genes involved in lignification are promising targets to improve the cellulose‐to‐ethanol conversion process. Down‐regulation of CAD often induces a reddish coloration of lignified tissues. Based on this observation, we screened a chemically induced population of Brachypodium mutants (Bd21–3 background) for red culm coloration. We identified two mutants (Bd4179 and Bd7591), with mutations in the BdCAD1 gene. The mature stems of these mutants displayed reduced CAD activity and lower lignin content. Their lignins were enriched in 8–O–4‐ and 4–O–5‐coupled sinapaldehyde units, as well as resistant inter‐unit bonds and free phenolic groups. By contrast, there was no increase in coniferaldehyde end groups. Moreover, the amount of sinapic acid ester‐linked to cell walls was measured for the first time in a lignin‐related CAD grass mutant. Functional complementation of the Bd4179 mutant with the wild‐type BdCAD1 allele restored the wild‐type phenotype and lignification. Saccharification assays revealed that Bd4179 and Bd7591 lines were more susceptible to enzymatic hydrolysis than wild‐type plants. Here, we have demonstrated that BdCAD1 is involved in lignification of Brachypodium. We have shown that a single nucleotide change in BdCAD1 reduces the lignin level and increases the degree of branching of lignins through incorporation of sinapaldehyde. These changes make saccharification of cells walls pre‐treated with alkaline easier without compromising plant growth.