bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolating Cognitive and Neurologic HIV Effects in Substance-Dependent, Confounded Cohorts: A Pilot Study
Authors: Byrd Desiree A. , Robinson-Papp Jessica , Mindt Monica Rivera , Mintz Letty , Elliott Kathryn , Lighty Quenesha , Morgello Susan
Published: February 2013

Controversy exists as to whether effects of HIV infection can be detected in the cognitive profiles of substance users, with methodological differences in degree of control for confounding factors a major contributor to empirical discrepancies. To address this shortcoming, we conducted a small but well-controlled study aimed at isolating HIV neurocognitive (NC) effects in a group of chronic substance users. Thirty HIV-negative substance users were individually matched to 30 HIV-positive substance users on relevant medical and demographic factors, including reading level and methadone therapy status. Results revealed that reading level, methadone maintenance therapy, and positive urine toxicology each exerted significant influence on NC function, and that HIV status was a significant predictor of learning and speeded processing after these control factors were considered. The HIV-positive group also displayed significantly more neurologically assessed motor impairment (p < .05), which was specifically related to impaired cognition in this group and independent of degree of immunocompromise. These data demonstrate the need for increased attention to clinical/demographic characteristics of groups under study. They also show that with applied methodological rigor, the deleterious effects of HIV on cognition can be parsed from substance use, even in small samples with chronic and active use histories. (JINS, 2013, 19, 1–11)
TRIVIAL MAXIMAL 1-ORTHOGONAL SUBCATEGORIES FOR AUSLANDER 1-GORENSTEIN ALGEBRAS
Authors: HUANG ZHAOYONG , ZHANG XIAOJIN
Published: February 2013

Let $\Lambda $ be an Auslander 1-Gorenstein Artinian algebra with global dimension two. If $\Lambda $ admits a trivial maximal 1-orthogonal subcategory of $\text{mod } \Lambda $, then, for any indecomposable module $M\in \text{mod } \Lambda $, the projective dimension of $M$ is equal to one if and only if its injective dimension is also equal to one, and $M$ is injective if the projective dimension of $M$ is equal to two. In this case, we further get that $\Lambda $ is a tilted algebra.
SOME INDEX FORMULAE ON THE MODULI SPACE OF STABLE PARABOLIC VECTOR BUNDLES
Authors: ALBIN PIERRE , ROCHON FRÉDÉRIC
Published: February 2013

We study natural families of $\bar {\partial } $-operators on the moduli space of stable parabolic vector bundles. Applying a families index theorem for hyperbolic cusp operators from our previous work, we find formulae for the Chern characters of the associated index bundles. The contributions from the cusps are explicitly expressed in terms of the Chern characters of natural vector bundles related to the parabolic structure. We show that our result implies formulae for the Chern classes of the associated determinant bundles consistent with a result of Takhtajan and Zograf.
Suprakondyläre Humerusfrakturen im Kindesalter
Authors: Jakob Laura V. , Acklin Yves P. , Furrer Markus , Sommer Christoph
Published: February 2013

Die suprakondyläre Humerusfraktur stellt eine der häufigsten Frakturen im Kindesalter dar. Hierbei richtet sich die Therapie einerseits nach dem ossären Dislokationsgrad entsprechend der Gartland-Klassifikation. Andererseits ist die initiale Erfassung von begleitenden neurovaskulären Läsionen aufgrund der Beeinträchtigung des Langzeitverlaufes essenziell, jedoch in der Klinik nicht immer einfach. Die Kenntnis der Besonderheiten von suprakondylären Humerusfrakturen im Kindesalter stellt somit eine essenzielle Voraussetzung zum Erreichen eines funktionell und kosmetisch zufriedenstellenden Langzeitergebnisses dar.
Trajectories of Depressive Symptoms in Advanced Old Age
Authors: Schilling Oliver K. , Wahl Hans-Werner , Reidick Ortrun
Published: February 2013

This study applied a growth mixture approach to intraindividual trajectories of depressive symptoms in advanced old age. Data from 124 elders born 1912–1922, repeatedly assessed on five occasions between 2009–2012, revealed three prototypical patterns: (1) stably low depressive symptoms (expected frequency 28%), (2) stability at major depression level (29%), (3) increase from low to high depressive symptoms (43%). The links of each pattern with functional ability, handgrip strength, and visual acuity were analyzed. High baseline levels of functional abilities and visual acuity, and concurrent stability of functional abilities increased the probability of the “stably low” pattern, but none predicted the increase pattern. We conclude that focus on diverse intraindividual change patterns adds to the understanding of depression in advanced old age.
Membrane topology of yeast alkaline ceramidase YPC1
Authors: Ramachandra Nagaraju , Conzelmann Andreas
Published: February 2013

Ypc1p (yeast phyto-ceramidase 1) and Ydc1p (yeast dihydroceramidase 1) are alkaline ceramide hydrolases that reside in the ER (endoplasmic reticulum). Ypc1p can catalyse the reverse reaction, i.e. the condensation of non-esterified fatty acids with phytosphingosine or dihydrosphingosine and overexpression of YPC1 or YDC1 can provide enough ceramide synthesis to rescue the viability of cells lacking the normal acyl-CoA-dependent ceramide synthases. To better understand the coexistence of acyl-CoA-dependent ceramide synthases and ceramidases in the ER we investigated the membrane topology of Ypc1p by probing the cysteine residue accessibility of natural and substituted cysteines with membrane non-permeating mass-tagged probes. The N- and C-terminal ends of Ypc1p are oriented towards the lumen and cytosol respectively. Two of the five natural cysteines, Cys27 and Cys219, are essential for enzymatic activity and form a disulfide bridge. The data allow the inference that all of the amino acids of Ypc1p that are conserved in the Pfam PF05875 ceramidase motif and the CREST {alkaline ceramidase, PAQR [progestin and adipoQ (adiponectin) receptor] receptor, Per1 (protein processing in the ER 1), SID-1 (sister disjunction 1) and TMEM8 (transmembrane protein 8)} superfamily are located in or near the ER lumen. Microsomal assays using a lysine residue-specific reagent show that the reverse ceramidase activity can only be blocked when the reagent has access to Ypc1p from the lumenal side. Overall the data suggest that the active site of Ypc1p resides at the lumenal side of the ER membrane.
Understanding Transparency Perception in Architecture: Presentation of the Simplified Perforated Model
Authors: Brzezicki Marcin
Published: February 2013

Issues of transparency perception are addressed from an architectural perspective, pointing out previously neglected factors that greatly influence this phenomenon in the scale of a building. The simplified perforated model of a transparent surface presented in the paper has been based on previously developed theories and involves the balance of light reflected versus light transmitted. Its aim is to facilitate an understanding of non-intuitive phenomena related to transparency (eg dynamically changing reflectance) for readers without advanced knowledge of molecular physics. A verification of the presented model has been based on the comparison of optical performance of the model with the results of Fresnel's equations for light-transmitting materials. The presented methodology is intended to be used both in the design and explanatory stages of architectural practice and vision research. Incorporation of architectural issues could enrich the perspective of scientists representing other disciplines.
Back View of Beauty: A Bias in Attractiveness Judgment
Authors: Yonemura Keiichi , Ono Fuminori , Watanabe Katsumi
Published: February 2013

Attractiveness judgment based on visual appearance seems easy and almost automatic. However, it becomes difficult when we need to rely on glances of a person's back view (eg while passing on the street). How is attractiveness judgment from the back view consistent with that from full-front view? In experiment 1 participants rated the attractiveness of human heads photographed from behind and from the front. Attractiveness ratings between the back and front views were weakly but significantly correlated. However, on average, the back-view photographs were rated more attractive than the front-view photographs. The tendency was most conspicuous when the male participants viewed the photographs of women. In experiment 2 participants were explicitly asked to predict the facial attractiveness of each head's front view based on the back view. Again, the predicted attractiveness based on the back view was higher than the actual rating of the front-view photographs, and the difference reached significance when the male participants viewed the women photographs. These biases in attractiveness judgment would be related to attractiveness judgments in everyday situations where straight full-frontal encounters are rare.
Anti-transglutaminase immunoreactivity and histological lesions of the duodenum in coeliac patients
Authors: Nenna Raffaella , Tiberti Claudio , Petrarca Laura , Mennini Maurizio , Mastrogiorgio Gerarda , Lucantoni Federica , Panimolle Francesca , Pontone Stefano , Bavastrelli Maria , Magliocca Fabio Massimo , Bonamico Margherita
Published: February 2013

Coeliac disease (CD) is characterized by several markers, including anti-transglutaminase auto-antibodies (tTGAb) directed against multiple epitopes of the gliadin protein. We aimed to investigate the correlation among CD duodenal lesions, tTGAb titres and the immunoreactivity against tTG constructs. A total of 345 CD patients (209 females, 136 males, overall median age: 7.3 years) were tested for full-length (fl) tTGAb with a fluid-phase radioimmunoassay. Out of the total, 231 patients were also tested for immunoreactivity against tTG fragments (F1: a.a. 227–687 and F2: a.a. 473–687). Patients were classified according to diffuse (D), patchy (P) or bulb (B) histological lesions. All sera were found fltTGAb positive. Patients with D, P and B lesions had a mean Ab index of 0.84±0.39, 0.57±0.39 and 0.45±0.24, respectively. Mean tTGAb titre varied between D and localized (P+B) patients (0.84±0.39 versus 0.52±0.34, P < 0.0001). Overall, 86.1% of patients were F1 auto-antibody (F1Ab) positive (D: 89%, P: 75%, B: 40%; D versus P+B: P = 0.004) and 49% of patients were F2 auto-antibody (F2Ab) positive (D: 53%, P: 19%, B: 10%; D versus P+B: P = 0.0006). Of the D patients 50.7% showed combined F1Ab-F2Ab (D versus P+B: P = 0.001), whereas 60% of B patients were negative for both F1Ab and F2Ab (B versus D: P < 0.0001). Coeliac-specific tTGAb immunoreactivity correlates with the grading and extension of histological duodenal lesions in CD patients at diagnosis. The immunoreactivity against single and combined tTG fragments is significantly higher in patients with D lesions. This is the first evidence of a distinct coeliac-specific immunoreactivity in patients with different duodenal involvement.
Pyroptotic cells externalize eat-me and release find-me signals and are efficiently engulfed by macrophages
Authors: Wang Qiang , Imamura Ryu , Motani Kou , Kushiyama Hiroko , Nagata Shigekazu , Suda Takashi
Published: February 2013

Pathogenic intracellular bacteria often hijack macrophages for their propagation. The infected macrophages release IL-1β and IL-18 and simultaneously commit suicide, which is called pyroptosis; both responses require caspase-1. Here, we found that pyroptotic cells induced by microbial infection were efficiently engulfed by human monocytic THP-1-cell-derived macrophages or mouse peritoneal macrophages. This engulfment was inhibited by the D89E mutant of milk fat globule (MFG) epidermal growth factor (EGF) factor 8 (MFG-E8; a phosphatidylserine-binding protein) that has been shown previously to inhibit phosphatidylserine-dependent engulfment of apoptotic cells by macrophages, suggesting that the engulfment of pyroptotic cells by macrophages was also phosphatidylserine dependent. Using a pair of cell lines that respectively exhibited pyroptosis or apoptosis after muramyl dipeptide treatment, we showed that both pyroptotic and apoptotic cells bound to a T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing 4 (Tim4; another phosphatidylserine-binding protein)-coated plate, whereas heat-killed necrotic cells did not, indicating that phosphatidylserine was externalized in pyroptosis and apoptosis but not in accidental necrosis. Macrophages engulfed apoptotic cells most efficiently, followed by pyroptotic and then heat-killed necrotic cells. Pyroptotic cells also released a macrophage attractant(s), ‘find-me’ signal, whose activity was diminished by apyrase that degrades nucleoside triphosphate to nucleoside monophosphate. Heat-killed necrotic cells and pyroptotic cells released ATP much more efficiently than apoptotic cells. These results suggest that pyroptotic cells, like apoptotic cells, actively induce phagocytosis by macrophages using ‘eat-me’ and find-me signals. Based on these results, a possible role of coordinated induction of pyroptosis and inflammatory cytokine production is discussed.
Essential role for Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7)-unique cysteines in an intramolecular disulfide bond, proteolytic cleavage and RNA sensing
Authors: Kanno Atsuo , Yamamoto Chikako , Onji Masahiro , Fukui Ryutaro , Saitoh Shin-ichiroh , Motoi Yuji , Shibata Takuma , Matsumoto Fumi , Muta Tatsushi , Miyake Kensuke
Published: February 2013

Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) an innate immune sensor for microbial RNA, erroneously responds to self-derived RNA. To avoid autoimmune responses, TLR7 is suggested to be silenced until the N-terminal half of the TLR7 ectodomain (TLR7N) is cleaved off. Resultant truncated TLR7 (TLR7C) is thought to signal microbial RNA. We here show that TLR7N remains associated with TLR7C through a disulfide bond. By N-terminal amino acid sequencing, TLR7C was found to start at 461E or 462A. The newly established monoclonal anti-TLR7N showed that endogenous TLR7 in bone marrow-derived dendritic cells was almost all cleaved and cleaved TLR7N remained in endolysosomes. TLR7N in endolysosomes was linked with TLR7C by a disulfide bond. In contrast, TLR9 did not have a disulfide bond between TLR9N and TLR9C fragments. Among the cysteines unique to the ectodomain of TLR7 but not TLR9 (Cys98, Cys445, Cys475 and Cys722), Cys98 in TLR7N and Cys475 in TLR7C were required for an intramolecular disulfide bond. These cysteines were also needed for proteolytic cleavage of and RNA sensing by TLR7, but not for TLR7 trafficking from endoplasmic reticulum to endosomes. No response was seen in TLR7 mutants lacking the proteolytic cleavage site or TLR7C alone. These results demonstrate requirement for proteolytic cleavage and TLR7N in TLR7 responses and indicate RNA sensing by TLR7N + TLR7C.
The role of galaxy mergers on the evolution of star clusters
Authors: Renaud Florent , Gieles Mark
Published: February 2013

Interacting galaxies favour the formation of star clusters but are also suspected to affect their evolution through an intense and rapidly varying tidal field. Treating this complex behaviour remains out-of-reach of (semi-)analytical studies. By computing the tidal field from galactic models and including it into star-by-star N-body simulations of star clusters, we monitor the structure and mass evolution of a population of clusters in a galaxy major merger, taking the Antennae galaxies (NGC 4038/39) as a prototype. On the long time-scale (∼109 yr), the merger only indirectly affects the evolution of clusters by modifying their orbits in or around the galaxies: the mass-loss of clusters in the merger remnant is faster, while clusters ejected in the tidal debris survive much longer, compared to in an isolated galaxy. The tidal perturbations of the galactic collisions themselves are too short lived and not strong enough to significantly influence the structure and dissolution of realistically dense/massive star clusters.
Transcriptome Responses to Combinations of Stresses in Arabidopsis
Authors: Rasmussen Simon , Barah Pankaj , Suarez-Rodriguez Maria Cristina , Bressendorff Simon , Friis Pia , Costantino Paolo , Bones Atle M. , Nielsen Henrik Bjørn , Mundy John
Published: February 2013

Biotic and abiotic stresses limit agricultural yields, and plants are often simultaneously exposed to multiple stresses. Combinations of stresses such as heat and drought or cold and high light intensity have profound effects on crop performance and yields. Thus, delineation of the regulatory networks and metabolic pathways responding to single and multiple concurrent stresses is required for breeding and engineering crop stress tolerance. Many studies have described transcriptome changes in response to single stresses. However, exposure of plants to a combination of stress factors may require agonistic or antagonistic responses or responses potentially unrelated to responses to the corresponding single stresses. To analyze such responses, we initially compared transcriptome changes in 10 Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) ecotypes using cold, heat, high-light, salt, and flagellin treatments as single stress factors as well as their double combinations. This revealed that some 61% of the transcriptome changes in response to double stresses were not predic from the responses to single stress treatments. It also showed that plants prioritized between potentially antagonistic responses for only 5% to 10% of the responding transcripts. This indicates that plants have evolved to cope with combinations of stresses and, therefore, may be bred to endure them. In addition, using a subset of this data from the Columbia and Landsberg erecta ecotypes, we have delineated coexpression network modules responding to single and combined stresses.
A reaction cell with sample laser heating forin situsoft X-ray absorption spectroscopy studies under environmental conditions
Authors: Escudero Carlos , Jiang Peng , Pach Elzbieta , Borondics Ferenc , West Mark W. , Tuxen Anders , Chintapalli Mahati , Carenco Sophie , Guo Jinghua , Salmeron Miquel
Published: February 2013

A miniature (1 ml volume) reaction cell with transparent X-ray windows and laser heating of the sample has been designed to conduct X-ray absorption spectroscopy studies of materials in the presence of gases at atmospheric pressures. Heating by laser solves the problems associated with the presence of reactive gases interacting with hot filaments used in resistive heating methods. It also facilitates collection of a small total electron yield signal by eliminating interference with heating current leakage and ground loops. The excellent operation of the cell is demonstrated with examples of CO and H2Fischer–Tropsch reactions on Co nanoparticles.
Freelancing eagles: interpretation as a transient career strategy for skilled migrants
Authors: Akan Ellis Burcu
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the role that transient interpretation jobs play in the career development of skilled migrants.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on interviews and correspondence with ethnic Albanian interpreters in the USA and Britain, this study analyzes the bonding and bridging effects of transient careers. Respondents include a diverse group of freelancers, as well as volunteer and professional interpreters and the interpretation experiences of the dozen Albanian skilled migrants are analyzed through a grounded theory approach.

Findings

Interpretation jobs enable highly‐skilled immigrants to initially sustain themselves abroad while adjusting to the host country. Interpretation is one area where skilled women can find a professional voice. Yet, the social capital value of interpretation exceeds its economic benefits. Migrant interpreters acquire human capital and social and cultural networks through their jobs and pass this “know‐how” to their communities through their volunteer work.

Research limitations/implications

Further research beyond the limited ethnic scope of the study is necessary to assess the links between migration and translation activism.

Practical implications

As an initial career choice for migrants, interpretation jobs remain typically transient, ad hoc and low‐wage, and the important functions they provide in economic, social and cultural capital, and their role in enabling migrants to get skilled through their migration remain unrecognized in studies of career development.

Social implications

Talented young immigrants in a transient career also get skilled through their migration process.

Originality/value

Young Albanian interpreters, invisible as immigrants and refugees, are indicative of the potential talent hidden in many such transient careers. The social, economic and cultural gains from interpretation indicate the need to view transient careers as more than short‐term strategies to make a living.
Segmenting multicultural mall visitors: the Israeli case
Authors: Gilboa Shaked , Vilnai‐Yavetz Iris
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is two‐fold: first, to identify segments of mall visitors based on the way they perceive mall attributes, their activities and their visiting patterns; second, to examine whether different social groups are characterized by different mall consumption habits. In addition, the Israeli segmentation will be compared with segmentations of mall visitors in other countries, previously described in the literature.Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected through a phone intercept survey of 725 respondents comprising a representative sample of Israeli mall visitors.

Findings

In total, three mall visitor segments were found – enthusiasts, recreationals, and utilitarians – validating findings of previous studies conducted in other countries. The three segments differed in perceived mall attributes, mall activities and visiting patterns, and in their consumption behavior (planned versus impulse buying and money spent), as well as in their demographics.

Practical implications

The results suggest activities and visiting patterns as the best foundations for the preparation of plans to attract mall visitors. Enthusiasts are attracted primarily by the mall's entertainment activities; recreationals look for places to hang out with others; and utilitarians prefer a functional retail mix. Retailers should address each segment separately and make separate plans accordingly.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the consumer behavior literature by validating previous findings of three groups of mall visitors; and to the cross‐cultural literature on mall visitors by shedding light on mall visitors in a multicultural society. In addition, the study offers practical insights for mall managements.
e‐Marketing Ireland: cashing in on green dots
Authors: Halvorson Wade , Bal Anjali , Pitt Leyland , Parent Michael
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze an integrated marketing model that includes operations in the real and virtual worlds.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors selected a marketing campaign conducted by a real world enterprise (Tourism Dublin) and examined the virtual world business (Virtual Dublin) model through that lens.

Findings

At the “slope of enlightenment” stage of the Gartner technology hype cycle, it is found that Second Life offers value for its business clients who understand the use of an immersive virtual experience as part of a strategic marketing program.

Practical implications

The paper shows that strategic use of a simulation that provides an immersive experience, such as the virtual exploration of a tourist destination, as part of an integrated marketing program can deliver tangible results and add value to a marketing campaign.

Social implications

With a range of products and services that were previously inaccessible before purchase, consumers can “try before they buy” in a virtual environment such as Second Life.

Originality/value

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case study to examine the business model of a company operating in Second Life (a virtual world) that sells the value of an immersive customer experience as an important part of an integrated marketing communications program.
Estimation of pore‐pressure change in a compacting reservoir from time‐lapse seismic data
Authors: Corzo Margarita , MacBeth Colin , Barkved Olav
Published: February 2013

An approach is developed to estimate pore‐pressure changes in a compacting chalk reservoir directly from time‐lapse seismic attributes. It is applied to data from the south‐east flank of the Valhall field. The time‐lapse seismic signal of the reservoir in this area is complex, despite the fact that saturation changes do not have an influence. This complexity reflects a combination of pressure depletion, compaction and stress re‐distribution throughout the reservoir and into the surrounding rocks. A simple relation is found to link the time‐lapse amplitude and time‐shift attributes to variations in the key controlling parameter of initial porosity. This relation is sufficient for an accurate estimation of pore‐pressure change in the inter‐well space. Although the time‐lapse seismic estimates mostly agree with reservoir simulation, unexplained mismatches are apparent at a small number of locations with lower porosities (less than 38%). The areas of difference between the observations and predictions suggest possibilities for simulation model updating or a better understanding of the physics of the reservoir.
Strategies for the Creation and Maintenance of Reconstructed Arteriovenous Fistulas Using the Forearm Basilic Vein
Authors: Kumano Shintaro , Itatani Keiichi , Shiota Jun , Gojo Satoshi , Izumi Naoki , Kasahara Hitoshi , Homma Yukio , Tagawa Hitoshi
Published: February 2013

Reconstruction of an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) after an initial failure to provide long‐term patency has been desired in the era when hemodialysis patients' prognosis is improving. The forearm basilic vein AVF should be considered, before an artificial graft shunt or an AVF in the cubital region. The present study was designed to establish a strategy for the creation and maintenance of AVFs using the forearm basilic vein. This study reviewed 76 cases of reconstructed AVF including 18 cases using the basilic vein (23.7% of total cases). The following four points were considered: arm positioning of the cubital flexion position combined with the forearm supinated position; several small skin incisions with a subcutaneous tunnel; sufficient venous dilatation using Fogarty balloon catheter; and early percutaneous angioplasty introduction for immature AVF. The primary and secondary patency rates were examined. A radiobasilic AVF was created through a subcutaneous tunnel in two cases. The primary and secondary patency rates of AVF with the basilic vein were 54.7% and 76.7% respectively, whereas those of AVF with the cephalic vein were 49.3% and 71.3%. The basilic was not inferior to the cephalic vein (P‐value of the log‐rank test for primary and secondary patency rates were 0.927 and 0.811, respectively). Early stage percutaneous angioplasty was effective in five cases with immature AVF. The forearm basilic vein was useful in AVF reconstruction and equivalent to radiocephalic reconstruction. Careful observation and percutaneous angioplasty during the early period after the surgery were essential for long‐term patency.
Use of varenicline versus bupropion and risk of psychiatric adverse events
Authors: Pasternak Björn , Svanström Henrik , Hviid Anders
Published: February 2013

Aim

To investigate whether varenicline use was associated with increased risk of psychiatric adverse events, compared with bupropion, another drug used for smoking cessation.

Designsetting and participants

We conducted a registry‐based cohort study in Denmark, 2007–10, comparing new users of varenicline and bupropion in unmatched and 1 : 1 propensity score‐matched analyses.

Measurements

Using Cox regression, we estimated the hazard ratio (HR) of any psychiatric adverse event (emergency department visit or in‐patient admission with a psychiatric diagnosis) within 30 days following treatment initiation. The unmatched and matched analyses correspond to conventional crude and fully adjusted analyses, respectively.

Findings

In unmatched analyses, there were 106 (0.18%) psychiatric adverse events among 59 790 varenicline users (rate 22 events per 1000 person‐years), compared with 46 (0.26%) events among 17 936 bupropion users (rate 31 per 1000); the HR was 0.69 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.49–0.98]. In propensity score‐matched analyses, 39 (0.22%) events occurred among 17 935 varenicline users (rate 27 per 1000), compared with 46 (0.26%) events among 17 935 bupropion users (rate 31 per 1000); varenicline was not associated with increased risk of psychiatric adverse events (HR 0.85, 95% CI: 0.55–1.30). The overall rate of psychiatric adverse events was substantially higher among participants with a history of psychiatric disorder than in patients without such history; the risk associated with varenicline did not differ significantly by history of psychiatric disorder.

Conclusions

In Denmark, the risk of psychiatric adverse events diagnosed during an emergency department visit or in‐patient admission was not significantly higher with varenicline use compared with bupropion.
Medical Ghostwriting and Informed Consent
Authors: Almassi Ben
Published: February 2013

Ghostwriting in its various forms has received critical scrutiny from medical ethicists, journal editors, and science studies scholars trying to explain where ghostwriting goes wrong and ascertain how to counter it. Recent analyses have characterized ghostwriting as plagiarism or fraud, and have urged that it be deterred through stricter compliance with journal submission requirements, conflict of interest disclosures, author‐institutional censure, legal remedies, and journals' refusal to publish commercially sponsored articles. As a supplement to such efforts, this paper offers a critical assessment of medical ghostwriting as contrary to good patient care, on the grounds that it contradicts established general principles guiding clinical ethics. Specifically, I argue that ghostwriting undermines trust relationships between authors and their readers, and between these readers and their trusting patients, and in so doing contradicts the duty of respect for patient autonomy by obstructing informed consent. For this reason, complicity in ghostwriting practices should be understood as a violation of the professional ethical duties of physicians and other healthcare workers.
Effect of glacial acetic acid treatment of cervical ThinPrep specimens on HPV DNA detection with the cobas 4800 HPV test
Authors: McMenamin M. , McKenna M.
Published: February 2013

Background

Cytology laboratories in the UK routinely treat unsatisfactory cervical liquid‐based cytology (LBC) specimens with glacial acetic acid (GAA) to reduce the unsatisfactory rate. However, there is limited published data on the effect of GAA reprocessing on the molecular detection of human papillomavirus (HPV). The aim of this study was to assess the impact of GAA treatment of cervical ThinPrep® samples on HPV detection with the cobas® 4800 HPV Test (Roche Molecular Systems, Pleasanton, CA, USA).

Methods

Residual ThinPrep samples (n = 121) were selected to provide a range of typical cytology results and enrich the study samples for HPV positivity. Specimens were equally split into two fractions: one part treated with 10% GAA and the other part left untreated. All samples were HPV tested using the cobas 4800 HPV Test, which simultaneously detects a total of 14 high‐risk HPV (hrHPV) genotypes and individually identifies HPV16 and HPV18. The HPV positive/negative status of tested samples determined the level of agreement between treated and untreated fractions; one sample failed owing to detection of a clot by the instrument during pipetting, leaving 120 samples in the study. Statistical analysis was performed using an unweighted kappa.

Results

Analysis of overall HPV positivity showed 97.5% (117/120) agreement between the treated and untreated fractions with a kappa value of 0.95. There were 63/65 (96.9%) concordant HPV positive and 54/55 (98.2%) concordant HPV negative results. In addition to the three discordant results for overall HPV positivity, there were three HPV type‐specific discrepancies giving a total of 114/120 concordant HPV results (95% agreement).

Conclusions

Glacial acetic acid (GAA) treatment of cervical ThinPrep specimens does not have significant adverse affects on HPV detection with the cobas 4800 HPV Test.
Acceptability of a reflective e‐portfolio instituted in an orthodontic specialist programme: a pilot study
Authors: Tonni I. , Oliver R. G.
Published: February 2013

Aim

The purpose of the study was to highlight students' and mentors' acceptability of a reflective e‐portfolio instituted in a postgraduate orthodontic programme in the UK.

Methods

A reflective e‐portfolio was developed on the basis of principles provided by a literature search and was piloted for 2 months with six students and seven mentors. At the end of the experience, mentors' and students' acceptability of the e‐portfolio with a reflective component was studied using questionnaires. The data were analysed using basic quantitative and qualitative methods.

Results

Students' response highlighted acceptability issues related to each aspect of the e‐portfolio derived from the literature: relevance of the e‐portfolio reflective part; time required for the process; support and mentoring; the implementation method; and the electronic medium. Mentors showed a more positive attitude towards the e‐portfolio, expressing only some concerns about the time involved in using it. Furthermore, the analysis of the data highlighted some other acceptability matters: the specificity of the e‐portfolio, the communication amongst students and the relationship between students and mentors.

Conclusions

The future successful implementation of the reflective e‐portfolio will depend on the productive management of the acceptability issues identified by students and mentors, in particular:(i)the specificity of the e‐portfolio that would avoid its overlapping with other part of the programme;(ii)the increasing communication amongst students to improve their knowledge of the reflective writing process; and (iii)the development of a relationship between students and mentors helping to create the appropriate environment for reflection.
Optimising control of invasive crayfish using life‐history information
Authors: Rogowski David L. , Sitko Suzanne , Bonar Scott A.
Published: February 2013

Optimisation of control methods of invasive species using life‐history information may increase probability that techniques will be effective at reducing impacts of nuisance species.

The northern crayfish, Orconectes virilis, has negatively affected native flora and fauna throughout the world in areas where it is non‐native. Yet, life history of invasive populations has rarely been studied.

We investigated the life history of three introduced populations of O. virilis within Arizona streams using mark–recapture methods and a laboratory investigation of reproduction to identify times and techniques to maximise effects of mechanical control.

We show the most effective time to implement crayfish control efforts is in autumn during their mating season, prior to onset of colder temperatures, at which time the majority of O. virilis become inactive. To improve crayfish survival, recapture and population density estimates, we suggest a mark–recapture programme using a robust sampling approach concentrated during spring and autumn.

Identification of vulnerable points in the life history of nuisance species may aid in control efforts.
Introduction: Commentaries on Ensuring Corporate Misconduct by Tom Baker and Sean J. Griffith
Authors: Langevoort Donald C.
Published: February 2013

This essay reviews some of the more striking findings in Tom Baker and Sean J. Griffith's Ensuring Corporate Misconduct: How Liability Insurance Undermines Shareholder Litigation (2010), particularly concerning the tension between two competing narratives of shareholder litigation—one stressing the important deterrent effect of such litigation, the other viewing such litigation as abusive plaintiff opportunism. The essay then introduces commentaries on the book by Carol Heimer and Jodi Short, which follow.
Coproporphyrin III excretion identifies the anaerobic coproporphyrinogen III oxidase HemN as a copper target in the Cu+‐ATPase mutant copA− of Rubrivivax gelatinosus
Authors: Azzouzi Asma , Steunou Anne‐Soisig , Durand Anne , Khalfaoui‐Hassani Bahia , Bourbon Marie‐line , Astier Chantal , Bollivar David W. , Ouchane Soufian
Published: February 2013

Two genes encoding structurally similar Copper P1B‐type ATPases can be identified in several genomes. Notwithstanding the high sequence and structural similarities these ATPases held, it has been suggested that they fulfil distinct physiological roles. In deed, we have shown that the Cu+‐ATPase CtpA is required only for the activity of cuproproteins in the purple bacterium Rubrivivax gelatinosus; herein, we show that CopA is not directly required for cytochrome c oxidase but is vital for copper tolerance. Interestingly, excess copper in the copA− mutant resulted in a substantial decrease of the cytochrome c oxidase and the photosystem under microaerobic and anaerobic conditions together with the extrusion of coproporphyrin III. The data indicated that copper targeted the tetrapyrrole biosynthesis pathway at the level of the coproporphyrinogen III oxidase HemN and thereby affects the oxidase and the photosystem. This is the first in vivo demonstration that copper, like oxygen, affects tetrapyrrole biosynthesis presumably at the level of the SAM and [4Fe‐4S] containing HemN enzyme. In light of these results and similar findings in Escherichia coli, the potential role of copper ions in the evolution of [4Fe‐4S] enzymes and the Cu+‐ATPases is discussed.
Relationship between ascochyta blight on field pea (Pisum sativum) and spore release patterns of Didymella pinodes and other causal agents of ascochyta blight
Authors: Davidson J. A. , Wilmshurst C. J. , Scott E. S. , Salam M. U.
Published: February 2013

Ascochyta blight of field pea, caused by Didymella pinodes, Phoma medicaginis var. pinodella, Phoma koolunga and Didymella pisi, is controlled through manipulating sowing dates to avoid ascospores of D. pinodes, and by field selection and foliar fungicides. This study investigated the relationship between number of ascospores of D. pinodes at sowing and disease intensity at crop maturity. Field pea stubble infested with ascochyta blight from one site was exposed to ambient conditions at two sites, repeated in 2 years. Three batches of stubble with varying degrees of infection were exposed at one site, repeated in 3 years. Every 2 weeks, stubble samples were retrieved, wetted and placed in a wind tunnel and up to 2500 ascospores g−1 h−1 were released. Secondary inoculum, monitored using seedling field peas as trap plants in canopies arising from three sowing dates and external to field pea canopies, was greatest in early sown crops. A model was developed to calculate the effective number of ascospores using predictions from G1 blackspot manager (Salam et al., 2011b; Australasian Plant Pathology, 40, 621–31), distance from infested stubble (Salam et al., 2011a; Australasian Plant Pathology, 40, 640–7) and winter rainfall. Maximum disease intensity was predicted based on the calculated number of effective ascospores, soilborne inoculum and spring rainfall over two seasons. Predictions were validated in the third season with data from field trials and commercial crops. A threshold amount of ascospores of D. pinodes, 294 g−1 stubble h−1, was identified, above which disease did not increase. Below this threshold there was a linear relationship between ascospore number and maximum disease intensity.
Determinants for preventive oral health care need among community‐dwelling older people: a population‐based study
Authors: Komulainen Kaija , Ylöstalo Pekka , Syrjälä Anna‐Maija , Ruoppi Piia , Knuuttila Matti , Sulkava Raimo , Hartikainen Sirpa
Published: February 2013

The aim was to study the determinants of preventive oral health care need among community‐dwelling old people. The study population consisted of 165 participants, a subpopulation in the Geriatric Multidisciplinary Strategy for Good Care of Elderly People (GeMS) study. Fifty‐five percent of the edentate participants with full dentures and 82% of the dentate had a need for preventive oral health care. In the total study population, the need for preventive care was associated with co‐morbidity (measured by means of the Modified Functional Co‐morbidity Index) odds ratios (OR) 1.2 (confidence intervals [CI] 1.0–1.5), being pre‐frail or frail, OR 2.5 (CI 1.2–5.1), presence of natural teeth, OR 4.8 (CI 2.2–10.4), and among dentate participants, the use of a removable partial denture, OR 12.8 (CI 1.4–114.4). Primary care clinicians should be aware of the high need for preventive care and the importance of nonoral conditions as determinants of preventive oral health care need.
Stress in Puberty Unmasks Latent Neuropathological Consequences of Prenatal Immune Activation in Mice
Authors: Giovanoli Sandra , Engler Harald , Engler Andrea , Richetto Juliet , Voget Mareike , Willi Roman , Winter Christine , Riva Marco A. , Mortensen Preben B. , Feldon Joram , Schedlowski Manfred , Meyer Urs
Published: February 2013

Double Whammy

Psychopathologies that cannot be explained by simple genetic or environmental circumstances may sometimes result from complex interplay between multiple inputs.

Giovanoli
et al.

(p.
1095
) analyzed the interactions between prenatal and postnatal stressors in mice to see what synergies give rise to psychopathologies in the adult mice. The results suggest that susceptibilities arise when mice are exposed to prenatal infection and also exposed to stressors around puberty. Stressors delivered later in adolescence did not seem to produce the same susceptibility. Although the mechanisms that impose the delay between stressors and psychopathology remain obscure, the timing and sequence of the triggers hint at possible cellular causes.
Legal Trade of Africa's Rhino Horns
Authors: Biggs Duan , Courchamp Franck , Martin Rowan , Possingham Hugh P.
Published: February 2013

A trade ban limits supply, therefore raising prices and driving black market poaching.
From the Sea to
Silent Spring
On a Farther Shore
The Life and Legacy of Rachel Carson

by William Souder

Crown, New York, 2012. 515 pp. $30, C$35. ISBN 9780307462206.
Authors: Davis Frederick R.
Published: February 2013

Deftly crafted, Souder's biography of naturalist and environmentalist Rachel Carson focuses on her writing career.
Leads and Lags at the End of the Last Ice Age
Authors: Brook Edward J.
Published: February 2013

Carbon dioxide concentrations and Antarctic temperatures were tightly coupled during the last deglaciation.

[Also see Report by

Parrenin
et al.

]
One Genome, Two Ontogenies
Authors: Friedman William E.
Published: February 2013

Identification of genes that regulate the complex life cycles of land plants helps to explain their evolutionary origins.

[Also see Report by

Sakakibara
et al.

]
What It Means for Agencies to Be Under the Sequester
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: February 2013

The lower spending required under the 2011 Budget Control Act would eventually have serious consequences for the research community as well as for the general public.
U.S. Agencies Directed to Make Research Papers Available
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: February 2013

The Office of Science and Technology Policy has asked agencies to make papers on research that they fund freely available online within 12 months after the results appear in a journal.
Brain Project Draws Presidential Interest, but Mixed Reactions
Authors: Underwood Emily
Published: February 2013

The Brain Activity Map proposal could lead to better ways of observing the brain, but not everyone thinks that the project is a good idea.
Europe Debates Ethics Reviews, Data Release
Authors: Vogel Gretchen , Couzin-Frankel Jennifer
Published: February 2013

Among the sticking points are changes in the requirements for ethics reviews and a proposal that the results of all clinical trials in the European Union be made publicly accessible.
LIFE SCIENCE TECHNOLOGIES: Not Your PI's Western Blot
Authors: Harding Anne
Published: February 2013

Science in India is on the move in a big way. The government has initiated multibillion dollar investments to kick start research, education, and innovation over the next five years. Though several challenging issues remain for the country, India's best and brightest expats living in the United States and Europe are being enticed back to 'Mother India' with the promise of world-class research infrastructure and solid funding.
Can Molecular Methods Detect 1% Isoniazid Resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis?
Authors: Folkvardsen Dorte Bek , Svensson Erik , Thomsen Vibeke Ø. , Rasmussen Erik Michael , Bang Didi , Werngren Jim , Hoffner Sven , Hillemann Doris , Rigouts Leen
Published: February 2013

Patients may harbor both drug-susceptible and -resistant bacteria, representing heteroresistance. We studied mixtures of isoniazid-resistant and -susceptible
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
strains. Conventional drug susceptibility testing was the most sensitive method of detection, whereas the line probe assay and sequencing were not able to detect the clinically relevant 1% proportion of resistant bacteria.
PCR-Reverse Blot Hybridization Assay for Screening and Identification of Pathogens in Sepsis
Authors: Choi Yeonim , Wang Hye-Young , Lee Gyusang , Park Soon-Deok , Jeon Bo-Young , Uh Young , Kim Jong Bae , Lee Hyeyoung
Published: February 2013

Rapid and accurate identification of the pathogens involved in bloodstream infections is crucial for the prompt initiation of appropriate therapy, as this can decrease morbidity and mortality rates. A PCR-reverse blot hybridization assay for sepsis, the reverse blot hybridization assay (REBA) Sepsis-ID test, was developed; it uses pan-probes to distinguish Gram-positive and -negative bacteria and fungi. In addition, the assay was designed to identify bacteria and fungi using six genus-specific and 13 species-specific probes; it uses additional probes for antibiotic resistance genes, i.e., the
mecA
gene of methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) and the
vanA
and
vanB
genes of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE). The REBA Sepsis-ID test successfully identified clinical isolates and blood culture samples as containing Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, or fungi. The results matched those obtained with conventional microbiological methods. For the REBA Sepsis-ID test, of the 115 blood culture samples tested, 47 (40.8%) and 49 (42.6%) samples were identified to the species and genus levels, respectively, and the remaining 19 samples (16.5%), which included five Gram-positive rods, were identified as Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, or fungi. The antibiotic resistances of the MRSA and VRE strains were identified using both conventional microbiological methods and the REBA Sepsis-ID test. In conclusion, the REBA Sepsis-ID test developed for this study is a fast and reliable test for the identification of Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and antibiotic resistance genes (including
mecA
for MRSA and the
vanA
and
vanB
genes for VRE) in bloodstream infections.