bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The trouble with isolation by distance
Authors: MEIRMANS PATRICK G.
Published: May 2012

The genetic population structure of many species is characterised by a pattern of isolation by distance (IBD): due to limited dispersal, individuals that are geographically close tend to be genetically more similar than individuals that are far apart. Despite the ubiquity of IBD in nature, many commonly used statistical tests are based on a null model that is completely non‐spatial, the Island model. Here, I argue that patterns of spatial autocorrelation deriving from IBD present a problem for such tests as it can severely bias their outcome. I use simulated data to illustrate this problem for two widely used types of tests: tests of hierarchical population structure and the detection of loci under selection. My results show that for both types of tests the presence of IBD can indeed lead to a large number of false positives. I therefore argue that all analyses in a study should take the spatial dependence in the data into account, unless it can be shown that there is no spatial autocorrelation in the allele frequency distribution that is under investigation. Thus, it is urgent to develop additional statistical approaches that are based on a spatially explicit null model instead of the non‐spatial Island model.
Lack of genetic differentiation between monarch butterflies with divergent migration destinations
Authors: LYONS JUSTINE I. , PIERCE AMANDA A. , BARRIBEAU SETH M. , STERNBERG ELEANORE D. , MONGUE ANDREW J. , De ROODE JACOBUS C.
Published: May 2012

Monarch butterflies are best known for their spectacular annual migration from eastern North America to Mexico. Monarchs also occur in the North American states west of the Rocky Mountains, from where they fly shorter distances to the California Coast. Whether eastern and western North American monarchs form one genetic population or are genetically differentiated remains hotly debated, and resolution of this debate is essential to understand monarch migration patterns and to protect this iconic insect species. We studied the genetic structure of North American migratory monarch populations, as well as nonmigratory populations in Hawaii and New Zealand. Our results show that eastern and western migratory monarchs form one admixed population and that monarchs from Hawaii and New Zealand have genetically diverged from North American butterflies. These findings suggest that eastern and western monarch butterflies maintain their divergent migrations despite genetic mixing. The finding that eastern and western monarchs form one genetic population also suggests that the conservation of overwintering sites in Mexico is crucial for the protection of monarchs in both eastern and western North America.
Mutation in Torenia fournieri Lind. UFO homolog confers loss of TfLFY interaction and results in a petal to sepal transformation
Authors: Sasaki Katsutomo , Yamaguchi Hiroyasu , Aida Ryutaro , Shikata Masahito , Abe Tomoko , Ohtsubo Norihiro
Published: May 2012

We identified a Torenia fournieri Lind. mutant (no. 252) that exhibited a sepaloid phenotype in which the second whorls were changed to sepal‐like organs. This mutant had no stamens, and the floral organs consisted of sepals and carpels. Although the expression of a torenia class B MADS‐box gene, GLOBOSA (TfGLO), was abolished in the 252 mutant, no mutation of TfGLO was found. Among torenia homologs such as APETALA1 (AP1), LEAFY (LFY), and UNUSUAL FLORAL ORGANS (UFO), which regulate expression of class B genes in Arabidopsis, only accumulation of the TfUFO transcript was diminished in the 252 mutant. Furthermore, a missense mutation was found in the coding region of the mutant TfUFO. Intact TfUFO complemented the mutant phenotype whereas mutated TfUFO did not; in addition, the transgenic phenotype of TfUFO‐knockdown torenias coincided with the mutant phenotype. Yeast two‐hybrid analysis revealed that the mutated TfUFO lost its ability to interact with TfLFY protein. In situ hybridization analysis indicated that the transcripts of TfUFO and TfLFY were partially accumulated in the same region. These results clearly demonstrate that the defect in TfUFO caused the sepaloid phenotype in the 252 mutant due to the loss of interaction with TfLFY.
RPN1a, a 26S proteasome subunit, is required for innate immunity in Arabidopsis
Authors: Yao Chunpeng , Wu Yingying , Nie Haozhen , Tang Dingzhong
Published: May 2012

Accumulating evidence shows that proper degradation of proteins that affect defense responses in a positive or negative manner is critical in plant immunity. However, the role of plant degradation systems such as the 26S proteasome in plant immunity is not well understood. Loss‐of‐function mutations in EDR2 (ENHANCED DISEASE RESISTANCE 2) lead to increased resistance to the adapted biotrophic powdery mildew pathogen Golovinomyces cichoracearum. To study the molecular interactions between powdery mildew pathogen and Arabidopsis, we performed a screen for suppressors of edr2 and found that mutation in the gene that encodes RPN1a, a subunit of the 26S proteasome, suppressed edr2‐associated disease resistance phenotypes. In addition, RPN1a is required for edr1‐ and pmr4‐mediated powdery mildew resistance and mildew‐induced cell death. Furthermore, we show that rpn1a displayed enhanced susceptibility to the fungal pathogen G. cichoracearum and to virulent and avirulent bacterial Pto DC3000 strains, which indicated that rpn1a has defects in basal defense and resistance (R) protein‐mediated defense. RPN1a–GFP localizes to both the nucleus and cytoplasm. Accumulation of RPN1a is affected by salicylic acid (SA) and the rpn1a mutant has defects in SA accumulation upon Pto DC3000 infection. Further analysis revealed that two other subunits of the 26S proteasome, RPT2a and RPN8a are also involved in edr2‐mediated disease resistance. Based on these results, we conclude that RPN1a is required for basal defense and R protein‐mediated defense. Our data provide evidence that some subunits of the 26S proteasome are involved in innate immunity in Arabidopsis.
Characteristics of persons who complied with and failed to comply with annual ivermectin treatment
Authors: Brieger William R. , Okeibunor Joseph C. , Abiose Adenike O. , Ndyomugyenyi Richard , Wanji Samuel , Elhassan Elizabeth , Amazigo Uche V.
Published: May 2012

Objective  To assess individual compliance with annual ivermectin treatment in onchocerciasis‐endemic villages.

Methods  Multi‐site study in eight APOC‐sponsored projects in Cameroon, Nigeria and Uganda to identify the socio‐demographic correlates of compliance with ivermectin treatment. A structured questionnaire was administered on 2305 persons aged 10 years and above. Two categories of respondents were purposively selected to obtain both high and low compliers: people who took ivermectin 6–8 times and 0–2 times previously. Simple descriptive statistics were employed in characterizing the respondents into high and low compliers, while some socio‐demographic and key perceptual factors were employed in regression models constructed to explain levels of compliance among the respondents.

Results  Some demographic and perceptual factors associated with compliance were identified. Compliance was more common among men (54.4%) (P < 0.001). Adults (54.6%) had greater rates of high compliance (P < 0.001. The mean age of high compliers (41.5 years) was significantly older (35.8 years) (t = 8.46, P < 0.001). Perception of onchocerciasis and effectiveness of ivermectin influenced compliance. 81.4% of respondents saw benefits in annual ivermectin treatment, high compliance among those who saw benefits was 59.3% compared to 13.3% of those who did not (P < 0.001).

Conclusion  Efforts to increase compliance with ivermectin treatment should focus on providing health education to youth and women. Health education should also highlight the benefits of taking ivermectin.
Owner assessment of therapeutic interventions for canine atopic dermatitis: a long‐term retrospective analysis
Authors: Dell Darin L. , Griffin Craig E. , Thompson Lori A. , Griffies Joel D.
Published: May 2012

Background –  Canine atopic dermatitis is a frequent diagnosis in veterinary medicine; however, the long‐term prognosis for canine atopic dermatitis has not been evaluated in a systematic fashion.

Hypothesis/Objectives –  To compare the relative efficacy of commonly used therapies for canine atopic dermatitis in two groups of dogs over 5 and 10 year time periods.

Animals –  Dogs were identified from the medical record database of a privately owned veterinary dermatology practice in the USA.

Methods –  Clients completed a four‐part, 28‐question, Internet‐based survey. Surveys were included in the analysis if one entire section was completed. Each question was completed independently of the answers to other questions.

Results –  Several respondents failed to complete all questions. Some respondents answered similar questions with contradictory answers. Each question was analysed individually. A total of 136 owner surveys were completed, 39 from the 10 year and 97 from the 5 year study dogs. Eighty‐five of 135 respondents indicated that their pet was receiving some form of medical therapy for atopic dermatitis at the time of the survey. Thirty of 90 respondents (33.3%) indicated that their dog improved during a dietary trial. Five dogs met the study’s definition for clinical cure. All five of these dogs had been treated with allergen‐specific immunotherapy.

Conclusions and clinical importance –  This study revealed that clients believe antihistamines can be a useful part of multimodal therapy for canine atopic dermatitis. The results also demonstrated that a significant number of canines benefited from dietary modification. In addition, allergen‐specific immunotherapy was the only treatment to induce true clinical remission of atopic dermatitis.
Recurrent and founder mutations in the PMS2 gene
Authors: Tomsic J , Senter L , Liyanarachchi S , Clendenning M , Vaughn C P , Jenkins M A , Hopper J L , Young J , Samowitz W , de la Chapelle A
Published: May 2012

Germline mutations in PMS2 are associated with Lynch syndrome (LS), the most common known cause of hereditary colorectal cancer. Mutation detection in PMS2 has been difficult due to the presence of several pseudogenes, but a custom‐designed long‐range PCR strategy now allows adequate mutation detection. Many mutations are unique. However, some mutations are observed repeatedly across individuals not known to be related due to the mutation being either recurrent, arising multiple times de novo at hot spots for mutations, or of founder origin, having occurred once in an ancestor. Previously, we observed 36 distinct mutations in a sample of 61 independently ascertained Caucasian probands of mixed European background with PMS2 mutations. Eleven of these mutations were detected in more than one individual not known to be related and of these, six were detected more than twice. These six mutations accounted for 31 (51%) ostensibly unrelated probands. Here, we performed genotyping and haplotype analysis in four mutations observed in multiple probands and found two (c.137G>T and exon 10 deletion) to be founder mutations and one (c.903G>T) a probable founder. One (c.1A>G) could not be evaluated for founder mutation status. We discuss possible explanations for the frequent occurrence of founder mutations in PMS2.
Constitutive accumulation of zeaxanthin in tomato alleviates salt stress‐induced photoinhibition and photooxidation
Authors: Zhang Qiu‐Yu , Wang Li‐Yan , Kong Fan‐Ying , Deng Yong‐Sheng , Li Bin , Meng Qing‐Wei
Published: May 2012

Zeaxanthin (Z) has a role in the dissipation of excess excitation energy by participating in non‐photochemical quenching (NPQ) and is essential in protecting the chloroplast from photooxidative damage. To investigate the physiological effects and functional mechanism of constitutive accumulation of Z in the tomato at salt stress‐induced photoinhibition and photooxidation, antisense‐mediated suppression of zeaxanthin epoxidase transgenic plants and the wild‐type (WT) tomato were used. The ratio of Z/(V + A + Z) and (Z + 0.5A)/(V + A + Z) in antisense transgenic plants were maintained at a higher level than in WT plants under salt stress, but the value of NPQ in WT and transgenic plants was not significantly different under salt stress. However, the maximal photochemical efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm) and the net photosynthetic rate (Pn) in transgenic plants decreased more slowly under salt stress. Furthermore, transgenic plants showed lower level of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), superoxide anion radical (O2•−) and ion leakage, lower malondialdehyde content. Compared with WT, the content of D1 protein decreased slightly in transgenic plants under salt stress. Our results suggested that the constitutive accumulation of Z in transgenic tomatoes can alleviate salt stress‐induced photoinhibition because of the antioxidant role of Z in the scavenging quenching of singlet oxygen and/or free radicals in the lipid phase of the membrane.
Cues that Spiders (Araneae: Araneidae, Tetragnathidae) Use to Build Orbs: Lapses in Attention to One Set of Cues because of Dissonance with Others?
Authors: Eberhard William G. , Hesselberg Thomas
Published: May 2012

Even for small animals such as spiders, behavioral decisions are sometimes influenced by multiple cues. Orb webs constitute exquisitely precise records of the stimuli the spider experienced and the decisions that it made while building its web. In addition, because spiders appear to sense their webs largely by touch, direct behavioral observations can determine which stimuli they probably sense. Previous studies have shown that when an orb‐weaving spider decides how far apart to space successive sticky lines during orb construction, it responds to at least five different kinds of stimuli, all of which apparently use a cue from the web, the location of the previous, inner loop of sticky spiral (IL location), as a point of reference. Here we show that two additional cues from the web, which are related to the position of the temporary spiral (TS), also influence sticky spiral spacing. A combination of direct observations of spider movements, analyses of complete and partially complete webs, and responses to experimental modifications of the web of two species in different families, Micrathena duodecimspinosa (Araneidae) and Leucauge mariana (Tetragnathidae), indicate that both the TS‐IL distance itself and the short‐term memory of the change in TS‐IL distance compared with that on other recently encountered radii correlate with sticky spiral spacing. When the TS‐IL distance was large, the spiders apparently ceased to attend to other cues. Thus, even the relatively stereotyped behavior of orb construction includes variation that stems from attention‐like mental processes.
Diagnosis and inflammatory response of patients with candiduria
Authors: Helbig S. , Achkar J. M. , Jain N. , Wang X. , Gialanella P. , Levi M. , Fries B. C.
Published: May 2012

Candiduria is common in hospitalised patients, but the clinical relevance is still unclear. This study was done to further our knowledge on detection of and host responses to candiduria. Urines and clinical data from 136 patients in whom presence of yeast was diagnosed by microscopic urinalysis were collected. Diagnosis by standard urine culture methods on blood and MacConkey agar as well as on fungal culture medium (Sabouraud dextrose agar) was compared. Inflammatory parameters (IL‐6 and IL‐17, Ig) were quantified in the urine and compared with levels in control patients without candiduria. Standard urine culture methods detected only 37% of Candida spp. in urine. Sensitivity was especially low (23%) for C. glabrata and was independent of fungal burden. Candida specific IgG but not IgA was significantly elevated when compared with control patients (P < 0.0001 and 0.07 respectively). In addition, urine levels of IL‐6 and IL‐17 were significantly higher in candiduric patients when compared with control patients (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis documented an independent association between an increased IgG (odds ratio (OR) 136.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) 25.7–719.2; P < 0.0001), an increased IL‐17 (OR 17.4, 95% CI 5.3–57.0; P < 0.0001) and an increased IL‐6 level (OR 4.9, 95% CI 1.9–12.4; P = 0.001) and candiduria. In summary, our data indicate that clinical studies on candiduria should include fungal urine culture and that inflammatory parameters may be helpful to identify patients with clinically relevant candiduria.
Phosphate in early chronic kidney disease: Associations with clinical outcomes and a target to reduce cardiovascular risk
Authors: TOUSSAINT NIGEL D , PEDAGOGOS EUGENIE , TAN SVEN‐JEAN , BADVE SUNIL V , HAWLEY CARMEL M , PERKOVIC VLADO , ELDER GRAHAME J
Published: May 2012

There is an intimate association between mineral and bone disorders in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and the extensive burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in this population. High phosphate levels in CKD have been associated with increased all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Observational studies have also shown a consistent relationship between serum phosphate in the normal range and all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality, left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and decline in renal function. Furthermore, fibroblast growth factor‐23 (FGF‐23), a phosphaturic hormone, increases very early in the course of CKD and is strongly associated with death and CVD, including LVH and vascular calcification. Few studies have addressed outcomes using interventions to reduce serum phosphate in a randomized controlled fashion; however, strategies to address cardiovascular risk in early CKD are imperative and phosphate is a potential therapeutic target. This review outlines the epidemiological and experimental evidence highlighting the relationship between excess phosphate and adverse outcomes, and discusses clinical studies required to address this problem.
Effect of cyclic hydrodynamic pressure‐induced proliferation of human bladder smooth muscle through Ras‐related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1, mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase 1/2 and extracellular regulated protein kinases 1/2
Authors: Wu Tao , Chen Lin , Wei Tangqiang , Wang Yan , Xu Feng , Wang Kunjie
Published: May 2012

Objectives:  To examine the role of Ras‐related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1, mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase 1/2 and extracellular regulated protein kinases 1/2 in the cyclic hydrodynamic pressure‐induced proliferation of human bladder smooth muscle cells.

Methods:  Human bladder smooth muscle cells were exposed to cyclic hydrodynamic pressures in vitro with defined parameters (static, 100 cmH2O, 200 cmH2O and 300 cmH2O pressure) for 24 h. The proliferation of cells was assessed by flow cytometry. Ras‐related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1, mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase 1/2 and extracellular regulated protein kinases 1/2 messenger ribonucleic acid, and protein expression was analyzed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. Specificity of the Rac1 was determined with real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot technique with small interfering ribonucleic acid transfection and Rac1 inhibitor (NSC23766).

Results:  The proliferation of human bladder smooth muscle cells was increased. Ras‐related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1, mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase 1/2 and extracellular regulated protein kinases 1/2 were activated by 200 and 300 cmH2O cyclic hydrodynamic pressure compared with static and 100 cmH2O pressure. The “knockdown” of activation of Rac1 using target small interfering ribonucleic acid transfection and Rac1 inhibitor (NSC23766) decreased proliferation of human bladder smooth muscle cells, and downregulated mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase 1/2, extracellular regulated protein kinases 1/2.

Conclusion:  The Rac1 pathway is activated in mechanotransduction and regulation of human bladder smooth muscle cell proliferation in response to cyclic hydrodynamic pressure.
A replicated comparison of breeding‐container suitability for the dengue vector Aedes aegypti in tropical and temperate Australia
Authors: RICHARDSON KELLY M. , HOFFMANN ARY A. , JOHNSON PETRINA , RITCHIE SCOTT R. , KEARNEY MICHAEL R.
Published: May 2012

In Australia, the dengue vector Aedes aegypti is presently restricted to Queensland but was historically more widespread. Future spread may be facilitated by changes in the availability of suitable ovipositing sites (artificial containers) in response to climate change. We undertook a replicated comparison of thermal and hydric conditions in a selection of water containers commonly used by Ae. aegypti under sun and shade conditions in a tropical (Cairns) and temperate (Melbourne) location. We assessed the implications of thermal and hydric regimes for development rates and thermal stress. Container type had no effect on potential development rate in Cairns but mosquitoes in tyres were predicted to have consistently slower development than those in other containers in Melbourne. Our dataset included the hottest day on record for Melbourne (46.4°C) yet few containers exhibited lethal water temperatures in this location. Similarly high water temperatures were reached in Cairns at more benign air temperatures due to high solar radiation loads. The tyres had unique thermal profiles that exhibited a plateau at shaded air temperature even when in full sun. Overall, our results suggest that chronic cold stress would prevent development in Melbourne during spring, drying of containers would be limiting in Melbourne in summer, and heat stress in unshaded small containers would be limiting in Cairns. Tyres could be an important and unappreciated buffered habitat in open areas in the tropics. These results are of value for directing water storage and waste policy to prevent the further spread of Ae. aegypti and dengue fever as well as other mosquitoes. The methodology can be applied to identify priority containers for surveillance in other parts of the world.
Effect of fatigue damage on static and dynamic tensile behaviour of electro‐discharge machined Ti‐6Al‐4V
Authors: LÓPEZ J. G. , VERLEYSEN P. , DEGRIECK J.
Published: May 2012

The fatigue performance of electro‐discharge machined Ti‐6Al‐4V and, more specifically, the effect of cyclic damage on the static and dynamic tensile properties of the material have been investigated. In a first step, fatigue failure was studied. Afterwards, tensile tests were performed on specimens that had been previously subjected to cyclic loading during predefined fractions of the fatigue life. In addition to conventional experiments at quasi‐static strain rate, dynamic tests were performed using a split Hopkinson tensile bar setup. The edges of some of the specimens were removed after cyclic loading to discriminate between the effects of damage at the edges and in the bulk of the material. Results revealed that early fatigue failure is due to the growth of cracks on the machined edges of the specimens. Edge cracks can randomly reduce fracture strain and energy absorbing capacity. However, cyclic damage does not affect the tensile properties of the bulk material.
The effects of ambient temperature, humidity and season of year on urine composition in patients with nephrolithiasis
Authors: Eisner Brian H. , Sheth Sonali , Herrick Benjamin , Pais Jr Vernon M. , Sawyer Mark , Miller Nicole , Hurd Kimberly J. , Humphreys Mitchell R.
Published: May 2012

Study Type – Prognosis (cohort series)

Level of Evidence 2b

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

Epidemiologic studies have shown that warmer climates are associated with increased incidence of nephrolithiasis. Many hypothesize that this is due to dehydration and lower urine volumes. The current study of stone formers reports that greater temperatures are associated with significant increases in urine calcium which may shed light on the mechanism underlying the increased stone incidence associated with increased ambient temperature.

OBJECTIVE

To understand the effects of temperature, humidity and season of year on 24‐h urine composition in patients with nephrolithiasis.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

A retrospective review was performed of patients evaluated at four metabolic stone clinics.

Multivariate linear regression models examined the relationship between mean temperature, average humidity, season of year and 24‐h urine composition.

Multivariate models adjusted for known risk factors for stone disease.

Mean temperature and average humidity data were obtained from http://www.weatherunderground.com based on patient‐provided addresses.

RESULTS

A total of 599 patients were included in the study, comprising 239 women and 360 men with a mean age of 53.6 years (sd 15.0).

Mean temperature was 16.9 °C (sd 4.8, range −21.1 to 38.3 °C) and average humidity was 58.1% (sd 23.5, range 11–100%).

On multivariate linear regression, increasing temperature was associated with increasing urine calcium (β= 11.3, 95% CI 2.2–20.0), super‐saturation of calcium oxalate (β= 0.6, 95% CI 0.2–0.9), super‐saturation of calcium phosphate (β= 0.14, 95% CI 0.03–0.2), and decreasing urine sodium (β=−5.2, 95% CI −10.3 to −0.1).

As seasons become warmer (i.e. from winter to autumn to spring to summer), changes were increased urine volume (β= 0.09, 95% CI 0.01–0.2) and decreased super‐saturation of calcium phosphate (β=−0.2, 95% CI −0.3 to −0.03).

There were no associations between quintile of humidity and any 24‐h urine constituents.

CONCLUSIONS

Increasing temperature may increase stone risk by increasing urine excretion of calcium, and the super‐saturation of calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate.

These findings were independent of humidity and of season of year.

This appears to be related to a physiological impact of temperature itself, rather than to geographic location.
A single dose of a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) prevents severe pain after ureteric stent removal: a prospective, randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Tadros Nicholas N. , Bland Lisa , Legg Edith , Olyaei Ali , Conlin Michael J.
Published: May 2012

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

The problem of severe pain after ureteric stent removal, its incidence and prevention, has not been previously described.

The present paper is the first to determine the incidence of severe pain after ureteric stent removal. It also shows that a single dose of NSAID before ureteric stent removal can prevent this pain in a significant number of patients.

Objectives

To determine the incidence of severe pain after ureteric stent removal.

To evaluate the efficacy of a single dose of a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) in preventing this complication.

Patients and Methods

A prospective, randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial was performed at our institution.

Adults with an indwelling ureteric stent after ureteroscopy were randomised to receive either a single dose of placebo or an NSAID (rofecoxib 50 mg) before ureteric stent removal.

Pain was measured using a visual analogue scale (VAS) just before and 24 h after stent removal

Pain medication use after ureteric stent removal was measured using morphine equivalents.

Results

In all, 22 patients were enrolled and randomised into the study before ending the study after interim analysis showed significant decrease in pain level in the NSAID group.

The most common indication for ureteroscopy was urolithiasis (14 patients).

The proportion of patients with severe pain (VAS score of ≥7) during the 24 h after ureteric stent removal was six of 11 (55%) in the placebo group and it was zero of 10 in the NSAID group (P < 0.01).

There were no complications related to the use of rofecoxib.

Conclusions

We found a 55% incidence of severe pain after ureteric stent removal.

A single dose of a NSAID before stent removal prevents severe pain after ureteric stent removal.
Roots and Routes: The Partition of British India in Indian Social Memories
Authors: HARTNACK CHRISTIANE
Published: May 2012

This contribution focuses on the Indian experience of the Partition. The personal and shared (i.e., social) memories regarding the history of India and Pakistan will inform the examination of the temporal dimension of the Partition, i.e., its “roots”. Tracing the re‐established and new interconnections in terms of trade, travel, transportation, and communication between India and Pakistan along historical lines gives insight into the spatial dimension of the Partition's aftermath, i.e. its “routes”. The main argument of this analysis is that the traumata resulting from the Partition are still not overcome and contain the potential for explosive conflicts in the future.
Obesity‐related eating behaviours in the adult population of Spain, 2008–2010
Authors: Mesas A. E. , León‐Muñoz L. M. , Guallar‐Castillón P. , Graciani A. , Gutiérrez‐Fisac J. L. , López‐García E. , Aguilera M. T. , Banegas J. R. , Rodríguez‐Artalejo F.
Published: May 2012

Knowledge of the socio‐demographic distribution of eating behaviours can aid our understanding of their contribution to the obesity epidemic and help to address healthy eating interventions to those who can benefit most. This cross‐sectional study assessed the frequency of self‐reported eating behaviours among 11,603 individuals representative of the non‐institutionalized Spanish population aged ≥18 years in the period 2008–2010. In the adult population of Spain, 24.3% had lunch and 18.2% had dinner away from home >3 times per month. About three‐fourths of adults did not plan the amount of food to be eaten, and did not choose light foods and/or skim dairy products. Also, 26% did not trim visible fat from meat, and 74.7% usually ate while watching television. Compared with individuals with primary or less education, those with university studies were more likely to remove fat from meat (age‐ and sex‐adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.25; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08–1.44), and to choose light food and/or skim dairy (aOR 1.50; 95% CI 1.30–1.77), and less likely to eat while watching television (aOR 0.54; 95% CI 0.47–0.63). In conclusion, the prevalence of several obesity‐related eating behaviours is high in Spain, which indicates a deficient implementation of dietary guidelines. Socioeconomic inequalities in eating behaviours should also be addressed.
Wavelet‐Based Detection of Beam Cracks Using Modal Shape and Frequency Measurements
Authors: Xiang Jiawei , Liang Ming
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  When a structure is subjected to dynamic or static loads, cracks may develop and the modal shapes and frequencies of the cracked structure may change accordingly. Based on this, a new method is proposed to locate beam cracks and to estimate their depths. The fault‐induced modal shape and frequency changes of cracked structures are taken into account to construct a new hybrid crack detection method. The method includes two steps: crack localization and depth estimation. The locations of the cracks are determined by applying the wavelet transform to the modal shape. Using the measured natural frequencies as inputs, the depths of the cracks are estimated from a database established by wavelet finite element method. The effectiveness of the proposed hybrid two‐step method is demonstrated by numerical simulation and experimental investigation of a cantilever beam with two cracks. Our analyses also indicate that the proposed method performed reasonably well at certain level of noise.
Towards Systematic Business Model Innovation: Lessons from Product Innovation Management
Authors: Bucherer Eva , Eisert Uli , Gassmann Oliver
Published: May 2012

Although business model innovations are decisive for a company's long‐term success or failure, they are still poorly understood compared to product innovations. Thus, their execution is imperfectly supported, and their organizational accountability is insufficiently regulated. In this paper, we systematically investigate similarities and differences between product and business model innovation to assess the potential of transferring insights and best practices. Therefore, we condense key findings of product innovation management into a framework as a basis for the analysis of 11 current cases of business model innovation. This paper intends to contribute to a better understanding of the options that exist for business model innovation. We derive implications for an improved management of business model innovation based on the cases analysed. For the innovation process and its organizational anchoring, we disclose potential benefits of a more structured and holistic approach.
SME Network Characteristics vs. Product Innovativeness: How to Achieve High Innovation Performance
Authors: Pullen Annemien , de Weerd‐Nederhof Petra C. , Groen Aard J. , Fisscher Olaf A.M.
Published: May 2012

Small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) must on the one hand innovate for company survival with the appropriate degree of product innovativeness, and on the other they need to collaborate and focus on core competences for efficiency matters. This research examines the relation of network characteristics and product innovativeness on innovation performance in SMEs. We tested hypotheses on the relationship between these three variables via data gathered from 60 SMEs, active in the medical devices sector. In this context we aim to offer consensus on the theoretical and empirical question of whether or not network characteristics and product innovativeness have a direct effect on innovation performance of SMEs. Results show no significant direct effect of product innovativeness on innovation performance. A positive interaction effect of multiple network characteristics on innovation performance was found, which confirms the significant importance of network configuration on innovation performance for SMEs. It indicates that, for SMEs in a highly regulated sector like the medical devices sector, the interaction of network characteristics is of crucial importance for high innovation performance. It is the combination of network characteristics that counts.
George Orwell: The English Dissident as Tory Anarchist
Authors: Wilkin Peter
Published: May 2012

This article examines the nature of George Orwell's Tory anarchism, a term that he used to describe himself until his experiences in Spain in 1936. The argument developed here says that the qualities that Orwell felt made him a Tory anarchist remained with him throughout his life, even after his commitment to democratic socialism. In fact, many of those qualities (fear of an all-powerful state, respect for privacy, support for common sense and decency, patriotism) connect the two aspects of his character. The article explains what the idea of a Tory anarchist means, describing it as a practice rather than a coherent political ideology, and moves on to examine the relationship between Eric Blair, the Tory anarchist, and George Orwell, the democratic socialist. It makes the case for his Tory anarchism by drawing out recurring themes in his work that connect him to other Tory anarchist figures such as his contemporary Evelyn Waugh. Thus Tory anarchism is presented as a conservative moral critique of the modern world that can connect figures who hold quite radically different political beliefs.
Fairness and Liability in the Just War: Combatants, Non-combatants and Lawful Irregulars
Authors: Finlay Christopher J.
Published: May 2012

Critics of non-uniformed ‘irregular’ warfare argue that it is unfair both to non-combatants and to enemy ‘regulars’. I dispute this view by outlining the ‘problem of in bello justice’, which concerns how the leaders of a people forced to fight a just war should distribute risks within their own population. In so far as all are the victims of aggression or unjust occupation, I argue, no citizens on the just side are morally liable to attack. But to benefit from the restraining effects of discrimination, some members must be rendered legally liable. Political leaders must therefore find the most appropriate distribution of the risk of harm: first, by deciding which and how many citizens to select as ‘combatants’; and second, by specifying how far to distance combatants from civilians. I identify four normative considerations that must be taken into account: each possible arrangement must (1) fulfil basic requirements of fairness domestically; then, between equally fair arrangements, leaders ought to determine which offers the most auspicious balance between (2) the goal of survival (of the society and as many of its members as possible) and (3) the goal of winning and, hence, eliminating the injustices that caused the war; finally (4) the arrangement should not be unfair to enemy combatants. On this basis, I argue that in spite of the increased risks it poses to civilians, limited ‘irregular’ warfare might be deployed legitimately against occupiers where using uniforms would render insurgents vulnerable to targeted assassination or arrest prior to actual combat.
Foreign direct investment under a weak rule of law
Authors: Wang Xiaozu , Xu Lixin Colin , Zhu Tian
Published: May 2012

We have developed a self‐enforcing contract model to show that better economic fundamentals can help an area or a region under a weak rule of law – but with order – to attract foreign direct investments (FDIs), whereas lowering taxes does not necessarily help. Using a cross‐region Chinese dataset, we find evidence consistent with our theoretical analysis. Regional variations in tax rates and the perceived quality of formal contracting institutions are not correlated with regional FDI inflows, but leadership characteristics are. Most conventional economic factors have the predicted effects on FDIs. The finding that FDI is lower in locations where domestic private firms have better access to finance and where the air quality is poor is also new to the literature.
Vision and cricket
Authors: Regan David
Published: May 2012

Citation information: Regan D. Vision and cricket. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2012, 32, 257–270. doi: 10.1111/j.1475‐1313.2012.00909.x

This review discusses the hypothesis that hitting a cricket ball depends on predicting the instant that the ball will be located in the volume of space within which it can be successfully hit, and that this prediction is based on retinal image correlates of the direction of motion in depth and the time to collision (or time to passage). The performance of top cricket players allows an estimation of their accuracy in this spatio‐temporal prediction. The bowler challenges the batsman’s skill by (1) causing the ball to change direction in flight and/or after bouncing and (2) causing linked variations in the speed and trajectory of the ball. I suggest that the linked variations of speed and trajectory exploit a visual inadequacy of the batsman, namely poor sensitivity to the instantaneous absolute distance and speed of the ball. Two alternative hypothese are also discussed, one based on eye movements, the other based on continuous coupling between perception and action.
Apparitions of neoliberalism: revisiting ‘Jungle law breaks out’
Authors: Peck Jamie , Tickell Adam
Published: May 2012

The authors revisit their paper, ‘Jungle law breaks out: neoliberalism and global‐local disorder’, published by Area in 1994, commenting on the theoretical and political context of that time and on the subsequent course of debates around neoliberalism. Focusing on the Thatcherite strain of neoliberalism as a manifestation of post‐Keynesian crisis politics, and along with its associated strategies of deregulatory devolution, the paper called particular attention to the project's reactive moment and to its distinctive mode of scalar politics. Subsequent experience has underlined the stubbornly adaptive character of the neoliberalisation process, which nevertheless continues to be animated by crises (of a contingent and conjunctural nature), while propagating yet more asymmetrical forms of regulatory rescaling. It might be said that a kind of jungle law, in this sense, continues to hold sway.
Diverse middle Ordovician palaeoscolecidan worms from the Builth‐Llandrindod Inlier of central Wales
Authors: BOTTING JOSEPH P. , MUIR LUCY A. , VAN ROY PETER , BATES DENIS , UPTON CHRISTOPHER
Published: May 2012

Abstract: Palaeoscolecidan worms are rare, Early Palaeozoic fossils with uncertain affinities within the Ecdysozoa. They are locally abundant in the Cambrian and scattered in the Early Ordovician, but very sparse thereafter. Forty‐four specimens have been collected from the Middle Ordovician of the Builth‐Llandrindod Inlier of Mid Wales and include well‐preserved material assigned to seven new genera, with four additional species in open nomenclature. An additional specimen from the Arenig Pontyfenni Formation of South Wales is also described in open nomenclature. The total demonstrates much greater palaeoscolecid diversity than hitherto suspected for this time. The specimens are preserved as cuticle fragments in shales and siltstones, often of submillimetre size but in many cases with excellent preservation. The level of detail preserved in some is equal to that found in Cambrian phosphatized faunas. The new approach to collecting, and the recognition that this material can yield taxonomically useful information, opens new avenues for palaeoscolecidan research in siliciclastic environments. The new taxa are the following:Radnorscolex bwlchigen. et sp. nov.,Aggerscolex murchisonigen. et sp. nov.,Bullascolex insereregen. et sp. nov.,Wernia eximiagen. et sp. nov.,Ulexiscolex ormrodigen. et sp. nov.,Pluoscolex linearisgen. et sp. nov. andLoriciscolex cuspidusgen. et sp. nov. The high diversity, and the taxonomic separation from known groups described primarily from Cambrian carbonates, implies that palaeoscolecidans either diversified significantly during the Ordovician or were taxonomically segregated between carbonate and siliciclastic settings. Palaeobiological findings also include confirmation that some palaeoscolecid basal cuticles were solid and others reticulate, plates (and platelets) could form by lateral accretion, plates were in part primarily phosphatic and in part organic and that in at least some groups, platelet secretion occurred external to plate secretion.
A tiny lizard (Lepidosauria, Squamata) from the Lower Cretaceous of Spain
Authors: BOLET ARNAU , EVANS SUSAN E.
Published: May 2012

Abstract: The smallest living amniotes are all lizards, but the fossil history of this size trait in Squamata is difficult to follow because small skeletons have low preservation potential and are often hard to detect in the field. A new squamate taxon,Jucaraseps grandipesgen. et sp. nov., is here described on the basis of an articulated skeleton from the Early Cretaceous Spanish lagerstätten of Las Hoyas. It differs from other known Mesozoic lizards in combining very small body size with a short rostrum, low maxillary tooth count, a relatively slender and elongated body, and short limbs with large hind feet. Phylogenetic analysis using TNT places it on the stem of a clade encompassing scincomorphs, gekkotans, snakes, amphisbaenians and anguimorphs. Comparison with modern lizards suggests it was probably a cryptic surface or subsurface ground dweller but not a burrower.
Assisted Living Expansion and the Market for Nursing Home Care
Authors: Grabowski David C. , Stevenson David G. , Cornell Portia Y.
Published: May 2012

Objective

To analyze the effect of market‐level changes in assisted living supply on nursing home utilization and resident acuity.

Data Sources

Primary data on the supply of assisted living over time were collected from 13 states from 1993 through 2007 and merged with nursing home‐level data from theOnlineSurveyCertification andReportingSystem and market‐level information from theAreaResourceFile.

Study Design

Least squares regression specification incorporating market and time‐fixed effects.

Principal Findings

A 10 percent increase in assisted living capacity led to a 1.4 percent decline in private‐pay nursing home occupancy and a 0.2–0.6 percent increase in patient acuity.

Conclusions

Assisted living serves as a potential substitute for nursing home care for some healthier individuals with greater financial resources, suggesting implications for policy makers, providers, and consumers.
Differential effects of clinically used derivatives and metabolites of artemisinin in the activation of constitutive androstane receptor isoforms
Authors: Burk O , Piedade R , Ghebreghiorghis L , Fait JT , Nussler AK , Gil JP , Windshügel B , Schwab M
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Widespread resistance to antimalarial drugs requires combination therapies with increasing risk of pharmacokinetic drug–drug interactions. Here, we explore the capacity of antimalarial drugs to induce drug metabolism via activation of constitutive androstane receptors (CAR) by ligand binding.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH A total of 21 selected antimalarials and 11 major metabolites were screened for binding to CAR isoforms using cellular and in vitro CAR‐coactivator interaction assays, combined with in silico molecular docking. Identified ligands were further characterized by cell‐based assays and primary human hepatocytes were used to elucidate induction of gene expression.

KEY RESULTS Only two artemisinin derivatives arteether and artemether, the metabolite deoxyartemisinin and artemisinin itself demonstrated agonist binding to the major isoforms CAR1 and CAR3, while arteether and artemether were also inverse agonists of CAR2. Dihydroartemisinin and artesunate acted as weak inverse agonists of CAR1. While arteether showed the highest activities in vitro, it was less active than artemisinin in inducing hepatic CYP3A4 gene expression in hepatocytes.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Artemisinin derivatives and metabolites differentially affect the activities of CAR isoforms and of the pregnane X receptor (PXR). This negates a common effect of these drugs on CAR/PXR‐dependent induction of drug metabolism and further provides an explanation for artemisinin consistently inducing cytochrome P450 genes in vivo, whereas arteether and artemether do not. All these drugs are metabolized very rapidly, but only artemisinin is converted to an enzyme‐inducing metabolite. For better understanding of pharmacokinetic drug–drug interaction possibilities, the inducing properties of artemisinin metabolites should be considered.