bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroprotective role of fibroblast growth factor‐2 in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Rottlaender Andrea , Villwock Hannah , Addicks Klaus , Kuerten Stefanie
Published: May 2011

The role of fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF‐2) in multiple sclerosis and its animal model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis is discussed. This study is the first to use FGF‐2−/− mice to further address the involvement of FGF‐2 in the disease process. We demonstrate that immunization with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein peptide 35–55 induces more severe experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in FGF‐2−/− mice compared with FGF‐2+/+ mice. The antigen‐specific cytokine response to myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein peptide and the degree of central nervous system inflammation was similar in both groups. However, FGF‐2−/− mice displayed increased infiltration of CD8+ T cells and macrophages/microglia. In addition, nerve fibre degeneration and axonal loss were augmented, whereas the extent of remyelination in central nervous system lesions was reduced. FGF‐2 has been associated with the induction of demyelination and the inhibition of myelin production by oligodendrocytes. Our study supports the opposing notion that FGF‐2 can also assert a neuroprotective function. This may be particularly appealing when it comes to targeting the neurodegenerative aspect of multiple sclerosis.
Dissecting the molecular pathways of (testicular) germ cell tumour pathogenesis; from initiation to treatment‐resistance
Authors: Looijenga L. H. J. , Gillis A. J. M. , Stoop H. , Biermann K. , Oosterhuis J. W.
Published: May 2011

Human type II germ cell tumours (GCTs) originate from an embryonic germ cell, either as a primordial germ cell or gonocyte. This start determines the biological as well as clinical characteristics of this type of cancer, amongst others their totipotency as well as their overall (exceptional) sensitivity to DNA damaging agents. The histology of the precursor lesion, either carcinoma in situ or gonadoblastoma, depends on the level of testicularization (i.e. testis formation) of the gonad. The impact of either intrinsic (genetic) – and environmental factors involved in the pathogenesis is demonstrated by disorders of sex development as well as testicular dysgenesis syndrome as risk factors, including cryptorchidism, hypospadias and disturbed fertility as parameters. This knowledge allows identification of individuals at risk for development of this type of cancer, being a population of interest for screening. Factors known to regulate pluripotency during embryogenesis are proven to be of diagnostic value for type II GCTs, including OCT3/4, even applicable for non‐invasive screening. In addition, presence of stem cell factor, also known as KITLG, allows distinction between delayed matured germ cells and the earliest stages of malignant transformation. This is of special interest because of the identified association between development of type II GCTs of the testis and a limited number of single nucleotide polymorphisms, including some likely related to KITL. Transition from the precursor lesion to an invasive cancer is associated with gain of the short arm of chromosome 12, in which multiple genes might be involved, including KRAS2 and possibly NANOG (pseudogenes). While most precursor lesions will progress to an invasive cancer, only a limited number of cancers will develop treatment resistance. Putative explanatory mechanisms are identified, including presence of microsatellite instability, BRAF mutations, apoptosis suppression and p21 sub‐cellular localization. It remains to be investigated how these different pathways integrate to each other and how informative they are at the patient‐individual level. Further understanding will allow development of more targeted treatment, which will benefit quality of life of these young cancer patients.
Spatial characteristics of white mould epidemics and the development of sequential sampling plans in Australian bean fields
Authors: Jones S. J. , Gent D. H. , Pethybridge S. J. , Hay F. S.
Published: May 2011

To improve sampling efficiency and precision in the assessment of white mould (caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) disease incidence on bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), the spatial characteristics of epidemics were characterized in 54 linear transects in 18 bean fields during 2008–2010 in northern Tasmania, Australia. The incidence of diseased pods and plants was assessed prior to harvest. Distributional and correlation‐based analyses indicated the incidence of diseased pods was characterized by a largely random pattern at the individual plant scale, with some patches of similar disease levels on pods occurring at a scale of 1·5 m or greater. Collectively, these results suggested epidemics may be dominated by localized sources of inoculum. Sequential sampling approaches were developed to estimate or classify disease incidence above or below provisional thresholds of 3, 5 and 15% incidence on pods near harvest. Achieving prespecified levels of precision by sequential estimation was possible only when disease incidence on pods was greater than approximately 4% and sampling was relatively intense (i.e. 10 pods evaluated on each of at least 64 plants). Using sequential classification, correct decisions on disease status were made in at least 95% of independent validation datasets after assessment of only 10·1–15 plants, depending on classification threshold and error rates. Outcomes of this research provide the basis for implementing more efficient sampling and management strategies for this disease in Australian fields.
Development and validation of a standard area diagram set to estimate severity of leaf rust in Coffea arabica and C. canephora
Authors: Capucho A. S. , Zambolim L. , Duarte H. S. S. , Vaz G. R. O.
Published: May 2011

A standard area diagram (SAD) set to aid assessment of the severity of coffee leaf rust (Hemileia vastatrix) was prepared and validated, and the characteristics of the rust lesions on Coffea arabica and C. canephora leaves were compared. The results indicated that the lesions were similar, so one scale could be used to evaluate the severity of rust on both species. The proposed SAD set contains illustrations of leaves with six disease severities (2·5, 5, 10, 20, 40 and 80%). The SAD set was validated by 10 raters with no previous experience of disease evaluation. The severity of rust was first estimated without using the SADs, and the same raters assessed the leaves again using the SADs. Regression analysis and Lin’s concordance correlation (ρc) analysis of estimated against actual disease severity showed precision and accuracy was significantly better using the SADs, for most raters, with improvements in both the slope and intercept of the regressions, and the values of u, υ (components of accuracy and precision of the ρc) and ρc improved to 60, 70 and 90% of raters, respectively, when the SADs were used. The absolute error was ≤38% without the SADs, and ≤22% with them. Severity estimates were more reliable using the SADs (R2 = 0·70–1·00 unaided, and R2 = 0·80–1·00 using the SADs). The SAD set improved rater assessments for the estimation of arabica and conilon rust severity, and can be used for assessing rust severity for many purposes, including plant breeding, fungicide screening and pathotype characterization.
Autopsy acceptance rate and reasons for decline in Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
Authors: Cox Janneke A. , Lukande Robert L. , Kateregga Alice , Mayanja‐Kizza Harriet , Manabe Yukari C. , Colebunders Robert
Published: May 2011

Objective  To determine the autopsy acceptance rate and reasons for decline at Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda.

Methods  The next of kin of patients who died in a combined infectious diseases and gastro‐enterology ward of Mulago Hospital were approached to answer a questionnaire concerning characteristics of their deceased relative. During the interview their consent was asked to perform a complete autopsy. If autopsy was declined, the next of kin were asked to provide their reason for the decline.

Results  Permission to perform an autopsy was requested in 158 (54%) of the 290 deaths that occurred during the study period. In 60 (38%) cases autopsy was accepted. Fifty‐nine autopsies were performed. For 82% of refusals a reason was listed; mainly ‘not wanting to delay the burial’ (58%), ‘no use to know the cause of death’ (16%) and ‘being satisfied with the clinical cause of death’ (10%).

Conclusion  The autopsy rate achieved under study conditions was 38% compared to rates of 5% in Mulago Hospital over the past decade. Timely request and rapid performance of autopsies appear to be important determinants of autopsy acceptance. A motivated team of pathologists and clinicians is required to increase autopsy acceptance.
The decoupling between genetic structure and metabolic phenotypes in Escherichia coli leads to continuous phenotypic diversity
Authors: SABARLY V. , BOUVET O. , GLODT J. , CLERMONT O. , SKURNIK D. , DIANCOURT L. , De VIENNE D. , DENAMUR E. , DILLMANN C.
Published: May 2011

To assess the extent of intra‐species diversity and the links between phylogeny, lifestyle (habitat and pathogenicity) and phenotype, we assayed the growth yield on 95 carbon sources of 168 Escherichia strains. We also correlated the growth capacities of 14 E. coli strains with the presence/absence of enzyme‐coding genes. Globally, we found that the genetic distance, based on multilocus sequence typing data, was a weak indicator of the metabolic phenotypic distance. Besides, lifestyle and phylogroup had almost no impact on the growth yield of non‐Shigella E. coli strains. In these strains, the presence/absence of the metabolic pathways, which was linked to the phylogeny, explained most of the growth capacities. However, few discrepancies blurred the link between metabolic phenotypic distance and metabolic pathway distance. This study shows that a prokaryotic species structured into well‐defined genetic and lifestyle groups can yet exhibit continuous phenotypic diversity, possibly caused by gene regulatory effects.
Only helpful when required: a longevity cost of harbouring defensive symbionts
Authors: VORBURGER C. , GOUSKOV A.
Published: May 2011

Maternally transmitted symbionts can spread in host populations if they provide a fitness benefit to their hosts. Hamiltonella defensa, a bacterial endosymbiont of aphids, protects hosts against parasitoids but only occurs at moderate frequencies in most aphid populations. This suggests that harbouring this symbiont is also associated with costs, yet the nature of these costs has remained elusive. Here, we demonstrate an important and clearly defined cost: reduced longevity. Experimental infections with six different isolates of H. defensa caused strongly reduced lifespans in two different clones of the black bean aphid, Aphis fabae, resulting in a significantly lower lifetime reproduction. However, the two aphid clones were unequally affected by the presence of H. defensa, and the magnitude of the longevity cost was further determined by genotype × genotype interactions between host and symbiont, which has important consequences for their coevolution.
Statistical Analysis of ‘Probabilities of Causation’ Using Co‐variate Information
Authors: KUROKI MANABU , CAI ZHIHONG
Published: May 2011

Abstract.  This article deals with two problems concering the probabilities of causation defined by Pearl (Causality: models, reasoning, and inference, 2nd edn, 2009, Cambridge University Press, New York) namely, the probability that one observed event was a necessary (or sufficient, or both) cause of another; one is to derive new bounds, and the other is to provide the covariate selection criteria. Tian & Pearl (Ann. Math. Artif. Intell., 28, 2000, 287–313) showed how to bound the probabilities of causation using information from experimental and observational studies, with minimal assumptions about the data‐generating process, and identifiable conditions for these probabilities. In this article, we derive narrower bounds using covariate information that is available from those studies. In addition, we propose the conditional monotonicity assumption so as to further narrow the bounds. Moreover, we discuss the covariate selection problem from the viewpoint of the estimation accuracy, and show that selecting a covariate that has a direct effect on an outcome variable cannot always improve the estimation accuracy, which is contrary to the situation in linear regression models. These results provide more accurate information for public policy, legal determination of responsibility and personal decision making.
Residual Analysis for Inhomogeneous Neyman–Scott Processes
Authors: JALILIAN ABDOLLAH H. , VAHIDI‐ASL MOHAMMAD Q.
Published: May 2011

Abstract.  In this article, we introduce a residual analysis for inhomogeneous Neyman–Scott models based on Laplace functionals. Our simulation study shows that this residual analysis method has a good performance in assessing goodness‐of‐fit and revealing inadequacy of the fitted model. The method is employed in fitting a Thomas model to California redwood trees data and a Matérn model to the locations of hickory trees in Lansing woods, Michigan.
On the Local Polynomial Estimators of the Counting Process Intensity Function and its Derivatives
Authors: CHEN FENG , YIP PAUL S. F. , LAM K. F.
Published: May 2011

Abstract.  We consider the properties of the local polynomial estimators of a counting process intensity function and its derivatives. By expressing the local polynomial estimators in a kernel smoothing form via effective kernels, we show that the bias and variance of the estimators at boundary points are of the same magnitude as at interior points and therefore the local polynomial estimators in the context of intensity estimation also enjoy the automatic boundary correction property as they do in other contexts such as regression. The asymptotically optimal bandwidths and optimal kernel functions are obtained through the asymptotic expressions of the mean square error of the estimators. For practical purpose, we suggest an effective and easy‐to‐calculate data‐driven bandwidth selector. Simulation studies are carried out to assess the performance of the local polynomial estimators and the proposed bandwidth selector. The estimators and the bandwidth selector are applied to estimate the rate of aftershocks of the Sichuan earthquake and the rate of the Personal Emergency Link calls in Hong Kong.
Correcting for survey effects in pre‐election polls
Authors: Heij Christiaan , Franses Philip Hans
Published: May 2011

Pre‐election polls can suffer from survey effects, causing biases in forecasted election outcomes. We advocate a simple methodology to estimate the magnitude of survey effects, by collecting data both before and after the election. This method is illustrated by means of a field study with data concerning the 2009 European Parliament elections in the Netherlands. Our study provides empirical evidence of significant positive survey effects with respect to voter participation, especially for individuals with low intention to vote. For our data, the overall survey effect on party shares is small. This effect can be more substantial, for example, if political orientation and voting intention are correlated in the sample.
Learning transfer: the views of practitioners in Ireland
Authors: Donovan Paul , Darcy David P.
Published: May 2011

Considerable expenditure on human resource development (HRD) has not necessarily resulted in a significant impact on organizational performance, and research suggests that the failure to transfer learning may be an important explanation. The search for factors affecting transfer has been extensive, as shown in Grossman and Salas's article in this issue, but, as they also show, more research is needed. The purpose of the present study is to ascertain the views of HRD practitioners (in Ireland) about the factors that they believe are relevant to the transfer of learning in the workplace. The aim is to discover whether practitioners have identified potential factors which researchers have not explored or not explored sufficiently. This group of practitioners was chosen because of the considerable control they wield over significant tranches of organizational resources. The method first involved engagement with 28 senior HRD practitioners in a workshop setting to create a transfer inventory based on their expert opinion. The initial inventory was then responded to online by a group of 314 practitioners indicating the relevance of the items to the question of transfer. Factor analysis was used to achieve parsimony among items, and 21 potential factors were identified. This study focused on the 15 factors adjudged by practitioners to be most relevant. It is concluded that trainer effectiveness, organizational linkage and training event climate, all deemed relevant by practitioners, may justify further research.
Psoriasis and unreported excessive alcohol intake – a simple screening approach
Authors: Pietrzak A. , Jastrzębska I. , Chodorowska G. , Maciejewski R. , Mosiewicz J. , Krupski W. , Prystupa A. , Szubstarski F. , Szepietowski J.C. , Hercogova J.
Published: May 2011

Psoriasis is a chronic immune‐mediated skin disease of complex aetiology. Alcohol overuse has long been suspected to contribute to psoriasis pathology, and the knowledge of individual’s drinking pattern may be of substantial importance for managing the disease. Unfortunately, a number of patients fail to admit to their true alcohol consumption and there is no single sign, symptom or laboratory parameter adequate for alcohol abuse diagnosis. However, there are some laboratory findings that, when present, should raise physician’s suspicion that alcohol may be a problem. The aim of this article was to present simple, widely available and relatively reliable laboratory markers that might effectively assist physicians in establishing patient’s drinking status. A possible screening approach is illustrated by two distinct reports of psoriatic patients who initially concealed having the problem with alcohol.
Ablative fractional yttrium‐scandium‐gallium‐garnet laser for scarring residual haemangiomas and scars secondary to their surgical treatment
Authors: Alcántara González J. , Boixeda P. , Truchuelo Díez M.T. , López Gutiérrez J.C. , Olasolo P.J.
Published: May 2011

Background  Infantile haemangiomas are benign self‐involuting tumours. They have a characteristic clinical course marked by early proliferation and followed by spontaneous involution. However, residual evidence with scar formation, fibrofatty residua, atrophic wrinkling, yellowish discoloration and telangiectasias is usually seen after involution.

Objective  The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of ablative fractional yttrium‐scandium‐gallium‐garnet (YSGG) laser in patients with residual haemangiomas or with scarring after their surgery.

Methods  Twelve patients with atrophic scar or fibrofatty tissue secondary to residual hemangiomas or with scarring after surgery of haemangioma were treated with one or two sessions of ablative fractional YSGG laser at 2.790‐nm wavelength. Laser therapy was performed using a spot size of 300 μm, a pulse width of 600 ms, a fluence range between 120 and 200 mJ per microspot and a density level of 3. Treatment with PDL at 595‐nm or with combined sequential 595 nm PDL and 1064 nm Nd:YAG was applied if telangiectasias or a residual vascular component were present. Three dermatologists evaluated treatment effectiveness by means of photographs of the patients before starting and 3 months after finishing the therapy; the degree of improvement was rated from 0 to 4. Parents' satisfaction was also assessed (scale from 0 to 10).

Results  Improvement was rated as 3 in two patients, 2 in four patients, 1 in five patients and no improvement in only one patient. Mean improvement was 1.58. Degree of parents' satisfaction ranged from 0 to 10. Mean satisfaction was 6.75. A discrete punctuate pattern was seen in three patients as the only long‐lasting side‐effect.

Conclusion  We consider that ablative fractional YSGG laser could be an interesting option for the treatment of selected patients with atrophic wrinkling or scarring residual haemangiomas and scars secondary to their surgical treatment.
The filaggrin null genotypes R501X and 2282del4 seem not to be associated with psoriasis: results from general population study and meta‐analysis
Authors: Thyssen JP , Johansen JD , Carlsen BC , Linneberg A , Meldgaard M , Szecsi PB , Stender S , Menné T
Published: May 2011

Background  Psoriasis vulgaris could be associated with the filaggrin null genotype since certain known susceptibility loci for psoriasis are shared with susceptibility loci for atopic dermatitis. Furthermore, filaggrin expression is lowered in psoriatic skin lesions but normally expressed in uninvolved skin. So far five relatively small patient‐based case‐control studies have rejected a possible association between psoriasis and the two most prevalent filaggrin null mutations, 2282del4 and R501X.

Objectives  To reinvestigate a possible association between psoriasis and filaggrin null mutation status by using cross‐sectional general population questionnaire data. Also, to perform a meta‐analysis including published studies that investigated the relation between filaggrin gene mutations R501X and 2282del4, respectively, and psoriasis vulgaris.

Methods  Between June 2006 and May 2008, a cross‐sectional study was performed in the general population in Copenhagen. A random sample of 7931 subjects aged 18–69 years was invited to participate in a general health examination including a questionnaire and 3471 (43.7%) participated. A total of 3335 (96.1%) individuals were filaggrin genotyped for the 2282del4 and R501X mutations. A meta‐analysis was undertaken to investigate the relation between filaggrin gene mutations and psoriasis vulgaris.

Results  The prevalence of self‐reported psoriasis was 6.7% among the 3240 respondents. The prevalence of the R501X and 2282del4 filaggrin null genotypes was 9.3% in subjects who reported psoriasis and 8.0% in subjects who did not report psoriasis (OR = 1.28; 95% CI = 0.74–1.89; P = 0.78). The meta‐analysis found no association between the filaggrin null genotypes R501X and 2282del4 and psoriasis (OR = 1.04; 95% CI = 0.81–1.35).

Conclusions  Psoriasis was not associated with the R501X and 2282del4 filaggrin null genotypes in a general population study and in a meta‐analysis on published studies.
Work engagement, work commitment and their association with well‐being in health care
Authors: Kanste Outi
Published: May 2011

Scand J Caring Sci; 2011; 25; 754–761
 
Work engagement, work commitment and their association with well‐being in health care

The aim was to examine whether work engagement and work commitment can be empirically discriminated and how they are associated with well‐being. The terminology used in literature and in practice is confused by the interchangeable use of these terms. Only few studies, like Hallberg and Schaufeli’s study, have examined the relationships between work engagement and work commitment systematically by using empirical data. In this study, the data were gathered via self‐reported questionnaire from the healthcare staff working in 14 health centres and four hospitals in Finland. The data consisted of 435 responses. The material was analysed by using structural equation modelling (SEM) and correlations. The items of work engagement and work commitment dimensions (identification with organization, willingness to exert in organization’s favour, occupational commitment and job involvement) loaded on their own latent variables in SEM analysis, so the data supported this five‐factor model. Work engagement and work commitment dimensions were positively related, sharing between 2 and 33% of their variances. These constructs also displayed different correlations with some indicators of well‐being measured as personal accomplishment, psychological well‐being, mental resources, internal work motivation and willingness to stay on at work. Work engagement had moderate positive correlation to personal accomplishment (r = 0.68, p < 0.001). Identification with organization (r = 0.40, p < 0.001), willingness to exert in organization’s favour (r =0.44, p < 0.001) and occupational commitment (r =0.37, p < 0.001) had low correlations to personal accomplishment. The results support the notion that work engagement can be empirically discriminated from work commitment. They are distinct, yet related constructs that complement each other, describing different aspects of positive attitudes towards work. The results can be utilized in interventions aimed at quality of working life in health care as well as in studies investigating discriminant and construct validity.
Cross‐cultural Validation of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ 4.0 (PedsQL™) generic core scale into Arabic Language
Authors: Arabiat Diana , Elliott Barbara , Draper Peter , Al Jabery Mohammad
Published: May 2011

Scand J Caring Sci; 2011; 25; 828–833
 
Cross‐cultural Validation of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ 4.0 (PedsQL™) generic core scale into Arabic Language

Background:  A range of scales is available to measure health‐related quality of life. Recently, established quality of life scales have been translated for use in a wide range of Western and non‐Western cultures. One of the most widely used health‐related quality of life scales for use with children is the PedsQL™ 4.0. In this paper, we describe the process of translating this scale into Arabic and establishing its reliability and validity.

Aim:  This paper has three aims: first, to explain the process of translating the PedsQL™ (4.0) self‐ and proxy‐reports for the ages 8–12 and 13–18, from English into Arabic; second, to assess the reliability of the new Arabic version of the scale and third, to assess its validity.

Method:  The scale was translated from English to Arabic and back‐translated to ensure accuracy. The Arabic version was administered to healthy children and those with cancer and a range of chronic illnesses in Jordan. Statistical methods were used to test the psychometric properties (reliability and validity) of the Arabic version of the PedsQL™ (4.0) and its ability to discriminate between children in the above groups.

Results:  Cronbach’s alpha coefficients for child self‐ and parent proxy‐reports exceeded 0.7 for the total scores, health summary scores and psychological health summary scores. Testing for discriminant validity showed that the healthy (control) group had a higher health‐related quality of life than children and young people with cancer and chronic illness. The children with chronic illnesses had the lowest scores for physical, emotional and school functioning.

Conclusion:  Initial testing of the Arabic version of the PedsQL™ (4.0) suggests that the scale has satisfactory psychometric properties.
The importance of inorganic carbon in soil carbon databases and stock estimates: a case study from England
Authors: Rawlins B. G. , Henrys P. , Breward N. , Robinson D. A. , Keith A. M. , Garcia‐Bajo M.
Published: May 2011

Many national and regional databases of soil properties and associated estimates of soil carbon stock consider organic, but not inorganic carbon (IC). Any future change in soil carbon stock resulting from the formation of pedogenic carbonates will be difficult to set in context because historical measurements or estimates of IC concentration and stock may not be available. In their article describing a database of soil carbon for the United Kingdom published in this journal, Bradley et al. [Soil Use and Management (2005) vol. 21, 363–369] only consider data for organic carbon (OC), despite the occurrence of IC‐bearing calcareous soils across a substantial part of southern England. Robust techniques are required for establishing IC concentrations and stocks based on available data. We present linear regression models (R2 between 0.8 and 0.88) to estimate IC in topsoil based on total Ca and Al concentrations for soils over two groups of primary, carbonate‐bearing parent materials across parts of southern and eastern England. By applying the regression models to geochemical survey data across the entire area (18 165 km2), we estimate IC concentrations on a regular 500‐m grid by ordinary kriging. Using bulk density data from across the region, we estimate the total IC stock of soil (0–30 cm depth) in this area to be 186 MtC. This represents 15.5 and 5.5% of the estimated total soil carbon stock (OC plus IC) across England and the UK, respectively, based on the data presented by Bradley et al. [Soil Use and Management (2005) vol. 21, 363–369]. Soil geochemical data could be useful for estimating primary IC stocks in other parts of the world.
Black carbon estimation in French calcareous soils using chemo‐thermal oxidation method
Authors: Caria G. , Arrouays D. , Dubromel E. , Jolivet C. , Ratié C. , Bernoux M. , Barthès B. G. , Brunet D. , Grinand C.
Published: May 2011

We studied the black carbon (BC) content of ca. 405 samples from French topsoil and artificial soil and carbonate mixtures. Our protocol involved three main steps: (i) decarbonation by HCl, (ii) elimination of non‐pyrogenic organic carbon in a furnace at 375 °C, and (iii) quantification of residual carbon by CHN analysis. BC content increased for calcareous soils according to their carbonates content. Subsequent analyses confirmed the existence of a methodological artefact for BC determination only in calcareous soils. Decarbonation changes the thermal properties of organic matter, creating more recalcitrant carbon than in the initial sample. Higher CaCO3 and organic carbon content results in a more pronounced artefact. The reversal of the first two steps of the chemo‐thermal oxidation method (i.e. thermal oxidation before soil decarbonation) eliminates this artefact. Overall, our results suggest that BC content may have been overestimated in a large number of studies on calcareous soils.
A Laurentian Iocrinus Hall (Crinoidea, Disparida) in the Dapingian or Darriwilian (Middle Ordovician, Arenig) of Oman
Authors: DONOVAN STEPHEN K. , MILLER C. GILES , SANSOM IVAN J. , HEWARD ALAN P. , SCHREURS JAN
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  Early and early Middle Ordovician crinoids are rare globally, and are best known from North America and the British Isles. The first Arenig crinoid from the Arabian Peninsula is Iocrinus sp. cf. I. subcrassus (Meek and Worthen), known from two near‐complete individuals, and numerous fragmentary specimens and ossicles. These are the stratigraphically oldest Iocrinus specimens, and provide an unexpected extension of the palaeogeographical range of a genus known otherwise from slightly younger deposits in Laurentia (North America) and Avalonia (Wales). The Oman specimens differ from Gondwanan Heviacrinus melendezi Gil Cid et al., currently classified as a maennilicrinid, but morphologically close to Iocrinus, in having arms that branch at least seven times instead of four and in having columnals typical of Iocrinus. Three species from Wales and the Welsh Borders, previously placed in Iocrinus, but differing in having smooth, conical dorsal cups, are reclassified as Margoiocrinus Donovan gen. nov., type species Iocrinus shelvensis Ramsbottom.
False fairy wasps in Early Cretaceous amber from Spain (Hymenoptera: Mymarommatoidea)
Authors: ORTEGA‐BLANCO JAIME , PEÑALVER ENRIQUE , DELCLÒS XAVIER , ENGEL MICHAEL S.
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  The fauna of false fairy wasps (Proctotrupomorpha: Bipetiolarida: Mymarommatoidea) occurring in Early Cretaceous (Albian) amber from north and north‐eastern Spain (Moraza, San Just, and El Soplao outcrops) is described. In total, 12 specimens have been recovered and four species recognized, all new: Alavaromma orchamum gen. nov. and sp. nov. (Alavarommatidae fam. nov.), Archaeromma hispanicum sp. nov. (Mymarommatidae), Galloromma alavaensis sp. nov., and G. turolensis sp. nov. (Gallorommatidae). The study indicates the necessity of revision and maybe fusion of both superfamilies, Mymarommatoidea and Serphitoidea, as the boundaries between them are less and less defined. However, major classificatory rearrangements must await the completion of the cladistic studies presently underway.
New Trigonioidoidea (Bivalvia; Unionoida) from the Early Cretaceous of Spain
Authors: DELVENE GRACIELA , MUNT MARTIN
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  Two taxa belonging to the Trigonioidoidea (Order Unionoida) are described from the Early Cretaceous of Spain. Nippononaia (Paranippononaia) camerana subgen. et sp. nov. is described from the Aptian of the Cameros Basin of the north‐west Iberian Range. Subnippononaia fordi Barker et al., 1997 is described from new material from the Calizas de la Huérguina Formation (Late Barremian) from Las Hoyas and Buenache de la Sierra, Cuenca Province, and Subnippononaia is raised to generic status. The stratigraphy and palaeoenvironment of the Cornago G exposure of the Enciso Group where Nippononaia (Paranippononaia) camerana originates is interpreted as a fresh to brackish water system.
Perivascular adipose tissue from human systemic and coronary vessels: the emergence of a new pharmacotherapeutic target
Authors: Aghamohammadzadeh Reza , Withers Sarah , Lynch Fiona , Greenstein Adam , Malik R , Heagerty Anthony
Published: May 2011

Fat cells or adipocytes are distributed ubiquitously throughout the body and are often regarded purely as energy stores. However, recently it has become clear that these adipocytes are engine rooms producing large numbers of metabolically active substances with both endocrine and paracrine actions. White adipocytes surround almost every blood vessel in the human body and are collectively termed perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT). It is now well recognized that PVAT not only provides mechanical support for any blood vessels it invests, but also secretes vasoactive and metabolically essential cytokines known as adipokines, which regulate vascular function. The emergence of obesity as a major challenge to our healthcare systems has contributed to the growing interest in adipocyte dysfunction with a view to discovering new pharmacotherapeutic agents to help rescue compromised PVAT function. Very few PVAT studies have been carried out on human tissue. This review will discuss these and the hypotheses generated from such research, as well as highlight the most significant and clinically relevant animal studies showing the most pharmacological promise.

LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Fat and Vascular Responsiveness. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2012.165.issue‐3
System xc‐ cystine/glutamate antiporter: an update on molecular pharmacology and roles within the CNS
Authors: Bridges Richard J , Natale Nicholas R , Patel Sarjubhai A
Published: May 2011

System xc‐ is an amino acid antiporter that typically mediates the exchange of extracellular l‐cystine and intracellular l‐glutamate across the cellular plasma membrane. Studied in a variety of cell types, the import of l‐cystine through this transporter is critical to glutathione production and oxidative protection. The exchange‐mediated export of l‐glutamate takes on added significance within the CNS, as it represents a non‐vesicular route of release through which this excitatory neurotransmitter can participate in either neuronal signalling or excitotoxic pathology. When both the import of l‐cystine and the export of l‐glutamate are taken into consideration, system xc‐ has now been linked to a wide range of CNS functions, including oxidative protection, the operation of the blood–brain barrier, neurotransmitter release, synaptic organization, viral pathology, drug addiction, chemosensitivity and chemoresistance, and brain tumour growth. The ability to selectively manipulate system xc‐, delineate its function, probe its structure and evaluate it as a therapeutic target is closely linked to understanding its pharmacology and the subsequent development of selective inhibitors and substrates. Towards that goal, this review will examine the current status of our understanding of system xc‐ pharmacology and the structure–activity relationships that have guided the development of an initial pharmacophore model, including the presence of lipophilic domains adjacent to the substrate binding site. A special emphasis is placed on the roles of system xc‐ within the CNS, as it is these actions that are among the most exciting as potential long‐range therapeutic targets.
Mechanisms of rapid opioid receptor desensitization, resensitization and tolerance in brain neurons
Authors: Dang Vu C , Christie MacDonald J
Published: May 2011

Agonists acting on µ‐opioid receptors (MOR) are very effective analgesics but cause tolerance during long‐term or repeated exposure. Intensive efforts have been made to find novel opioid agonists that are efficacious analgesics but can elude the signalling events that cause tolerance. µ‐Opioid agonists differentially couple to downstream signalling mechanisms. Some agonists, such as enkephalins, d‐Ala(2),N‐Me‐Phe(4),Gly(5)‐ol]‐enkephalin (DAMGO), methadone and sufentanyl are efficacious at mediating G‐protein and effector coupling, as well as triggering MOR regulatory events that include MOR phosphorylation, β‐arrestin binding, receptor endocytosis and recycling. By contrast, morphine and closely related alkaloids can mediate efficacious MOR–effector coupling but poorly trigger receptor regulation. Several models have been proposed to relate differential MOR regulation by different opioids with their propensity to cause tolerance. Most are based on dogma that β‐arrestin‐2 (βarr‐2) binding causes MOR desensitization and/or that MOR endocytosis and recycling are required for receptor resensitization. This review will examine some of these notions in light of recent evidence establishing that MOR dephosphorylation and resensitization do not require endocytosis. Recent evidence from opioid‐treated animals also suggests that impaired MOR–effector coupling is driven, at least in part, by enhanced desensitization, as well as impaired resensitization that appears to be βarr‐2 dependent. Better understanding of how chronic exposure to opioids alters receptor regulatory mechanisms may facilitate the development of effective analgesics that produce limited tolerance.

LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on the Molecular Pharmacology of G Protein‐Coupled Receptors (GPCRs). To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2012.165.issue‐6. To view the 2010 themed section on the same topic visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.2010.159.issue‐5/issuetoc
COX‐2 and fatty acid amide hydrolase can regulate the time course of depolarization‐induced suppression of excitation
Authors: Straiker A , Wager‐Miller J , Hu SS , Blankman JL , Cravatt BF , Mackie K
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Depolarization‐induced suppression of inhibition (DSI) and excitation (DSE) are two forms of cannabinoid CB1 receptor‐mediated inhibition of synaptic transmission, whose durations are regulated by endocannabinoid (eCB) degradation. We have recently shown that in cultured hippocampal neurons monoacylglycerol lipase (MGL) controls the duration of DSE, while DSI duration is determined by both MGL and COX‐2. This latter result suggests that DSE might be attenuated, and excitatory transmission enhanced, during inflammation and in other settings where COX‐2 expression is up‐regulated.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH To investigate whether it is possible to control the duration of eCB‐mediated synaptic plasticity by varied expression of eCB‐degrading enzymes, we transfected excitatory autaptic hippocampal neurons with putative 2‐AG metabolizing enzymes: COX‐2, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), α/β hydrolase domain 6 (ABHD6), α/β hydrolase domain 12 (ABHD12) or MGL.

KEY RESULTS We found that overexpression of either COX‐2 or FAAH shortens the duration of DSE while ABHD6 or ABHD12 do not. In contrast, genetic deletion (MGL−/−) and overexpression of MGL both radically altered eCB‐mediated synaptic plasticity.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS We conclude that both FAAH and COX‐2 can be trafficked to neuronal sites where they are able to degrade eCBs to modulate DSE duration and, by extension, net endocannabinoid signalling at a given synapse. The results for COX‐2, which is often up‐regulated under pathological conditions, are of particular note in that they offer a mechanism by which up‐regulated COX‐2 may promote neuronal excitation by suppressing DSE while enhancing conversion of 2‐AG to PGE2‐glycerol ester under pathological conditions.
Immunosuppressive Management of Dialysis Patients with Recently Failed Transplants
Authors: Pham Phuong‐Thu , Pham Phuong‐Chi
Published: May 2011

Over the past decade, patients returning to dialysis after a failed transplant comprised of 5–10% of the annual number of dialysis initiations in the United States, whereas retransplant candidates account for 5.0–13% of the annual deceased donor wait‐list additions. The United States Renal Data System (USRDS) database revealed a >3‐fold increase in the annual adjusted death rates for patients returning to dialysis after graft loss compared with patients with a functioning allograft (9.4% vs. 2.8%, respectively). Continuation of low‐dose immunosuppression to maintain residual allograft function has been suggested as a contributing factor, presumably via treatment‐related infectious and cardiovascular complications among others. In contrast, a survival advantage in maintaining patients on long‐term immunosuppression after returning to peritoneal dialysis has also been suggested. Despite the significant number of patients requiring reinitiation of some form of renal replacement therapy after a failed transplant and the increasing evidence suggesting their high mortality and morbidity rates, management of the failed allograft in these patients has received little attention. This article presents an overview of the literature on the management of immunosuppression after allograft failure, a brief review on the pros and cons of allograft nephrectomy, and the authors’ opinions on the management of immunosuppression in patients with a failed kidney allograft.
Interlaboratory assessment of a novel colony‐forming unit assay: a multicenter study by the cellular team of Biomedical Excellence for Safer Transfusion (BEST) collaborative
Authors: Nawrot Maria , McKenna David H. , Sumstad Darin , McMannis John D. , Szczepiorkowski Zbigniew M. , Belfield Helen , Grassman Elke , Temples Toni , Nielsen Deanna , Yuan Ning , Wognum Bert , Reems Jo‐Anna
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND: Interlaboratory scoring performances were determined using a traditional 14‐day colony‐forming unit (CFU) assay and a new 7‐day CFU assay.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Digital images of colonies were utilized to train personnel at each site. A central laboratory inoculated methylcellulose with progenitors and sent the samples by overnight courier to participating labs for plating.

RESULTS: Colony counts from two digital images showed greater variability by novice counters (coefficients of variation [CV], 18.5 and 23.0%; n = 8) than for experienced staff (CV, 7.3 and 4.8%; n = 5). CFU assays plated immediately, 24 and 48 hours after methylcellulose inoculation displayed 39.5 CFU, 37.1 ± 10.6 (CV, 28%) and 34.8 ± 8.5 (CV, 24%) colonies for the 7‐day assay and 39.5 CFU, 39.1 ± 9.9 (CV, 25%) and 37.1 ± 10.6 (CV, 28%) colonies for the 14‐day assay, respectively. Overall, no significant differences in colony counts were noted between assays (p = 0.68). Also, no differences in CFU counts were seen when assays were set up immediately, 24 and 48 hours after methylcellulose inoculation (14‐day p = 0.695; 7‐day p = 0.632).

CONCLUSION: Total CFUs obtained in 7‐ and 14‐day CFU assays are comparable and show similar levels of interlaboratory variability. The major source of this variability is due to differences in how CFU plates are scored by individuals at different sites. UCB progenitor cells can be maintained in methylcellulose‐based media at room temperature for up to 48 hours prior to transport without a significant loss in CFUs.
Atopic predisposition of recipients in allergic transfusion reactions to apheresis platelets
Authors: Savage William J. , Tobian Aaron A.R. , Savage Jessica H. , Hamilton Robert G. , Ness Paul M.
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND: The biologic mechanisms of allergic transfusion reactions (ATRs) are largely unknown. We sought to compare the atopic predisposition of platelet (PLT) recipients who experienced an ATR to nonreactive control recipients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: We identified 37 consecutive apheresis PLT recipients who experienced an ATR and 26 matched controls. Total immunoglobulin (Ig)E and aero‐ and food allergen–specific IgE were quantified in plasma by a blood test for allergies (ImmunoCAP: Phadiatop and Fx5). IgE testing of apheresis PLT supernatants was also performed.

RESULTS: Pruritus and urticaria were manifest in 91.9 and 83.8% of all ATRs, with more severe respiratory symptoms and angioedema occurring in less than 15% of cases. No subject had anaphylaxis. Sex, age, and primary diagnosis were balanced between the two groups. Total and aeroallergen‐specific IgE was higher among subjects experiencing an ATR in comparison to control subjects (median total IgE, 55.5 kU/L vs. 8.3 kU/L, p = 0.002; and median aeroallergen‐specific IgE, 0.57 kUa/L vs. 0.36 kUa/L, p = 0.046). IgE antibody levels in apheresis products associated with ATRs were similar to control products (p > 0.1 for all IgE tests).

CONCLUSION: Recipient atopic predisposition, as defined by IgE sensitization, is a risk factor associated with ATRs.
Rapid clearance of transfused murine red blood cells is associated with recipient cytokine storm and enhanced alloimmunogenicity
Authors: Hendrickson Jeanne E. , Hod Eldad A. , Cadwell Chantel M. , Eisenbarth Stephanie C. , Spiegel David A. , Tormey Christopher A. , Spitalnik Steven L. , Zimring James C.
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND: Fourteen‐day stored red blood cells (RBCs) containing an RBC‐specific transgenic antigen (HOD) induce a recipient proinflammatory cytokine storm and are significantly more immunogenic compared to fresh RBCs. Given that recipient mice clear transfused stored RBCs more rapidly than fresh RBCs, we hypothesized that rapid RBC clearance was associated with adverse transfusion outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: HOD RBCs were treated by two distinct methods known to lead to rapid posttransfusion RBC clearance: phenylhydrazine or heat. HOD antigen expression was analyzed on the treated cells before transfusion, and RBC recovery, recipient cytokine response, and recipient anti‐HOD alloimmunization response were measured after transfusion.

RESULTS: Phenylhydrazine and heat treatment each led to near complete RBC clearance in recipients by 24 hours posttransfusion, without significantly altering HOD antigen expression on the transfused RBCs. Recipients of phenylhydrazine‐ or heat‐treated RBCs had elevated circulating levels of keratinocyte‐derived chemokine/CXCL‐1, monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1, and interleukin‐6 after transfusion. Furthermore, phenylhydrazine‐ or heat‐treated RBCs were significantly more immunogenic than control RBCs, with a mean 25.1‐ and 10.3‐fold enhancement, respectively, of anti‐HOD alloimmunization magnitude by flow cytometric crossmatch.

CONCLUSIONS: Three separate insults to RBCs (storage, phenylhydrazine, or heat treatment) result in rapid posttransfusion clearance, with a recipient proinflammatory cytokine storm and enhanced alloimmunogenicity. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that rapid clearance of RBCs is causally involved in these outcomes and suggest that human donor RBCs with favorable posttransfusion clearance profiles may be less immunogenic.