bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary vs. transport: an analysis of environmental burdens pertaining to a typical workday
Authors: Sanfilippo Sara , Raimondi Andrea , Ruggeri Bernardo , Fino Debora
Published: February 2012

This article deals with an evaluation of some environmental impacts of a normal workday. The aim is to compare the environmental load associated to different standard meals provided by a canteen, and a series of transport options from home to the workplace, adopting the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. LCA is a holistic methodology that evaluates the environmental burdens associated to industrial productions or anthropic activities, over the whole life cycle of a product. The environmental load associated to a service is characterized by a number of impact indicators internationally accepted, such as gross energy requirement, global warming potential (GWP), ozone layer depletion and others. The present paper shows the environmental impacts, calculated with the environmental product declaration and the cumulative energy demand methods, associated to some typical food courses and means of transportation.

The present analysis considers as subject a generic worker who lives and works in a European urban area. The results highlight how often environmental impacts coming from the lunch, in particular when the menus contain meat, are higher than the ones attributable to the transport. Taking into account the GWP as example, this study assesses how the contribution for producing a single beef steak (120 g) is equivalent to drive a car for ca. 30 km.
Consumer preferences for sustainable production methods in apple purchasing behaviour: a non‐hypothetical choice experiment
Authors: Moser Riccarda , Raffaelli Roberta
Published: February 2012

Increasing concern for potential risks on human health related to the overuse of chemicals in farming has promoted the research of alternative production methods. This paper contributes to the current literature by presenting a non‐hypothetical choice experiment study that investigates apple consumers' preferences for alternative production systems moving from a conventional to organic production, passing through an integrated pest management and an innovative technique that uses biocontrol agents. Other investigated attributes are appearance, origin and low greenhouse gas emission practices. The non‐hypothetical choice experiment was carried out in supermarkets by asking respondents to pay out of their own pocket for the chosen product. Most of interviewed people stated to have cut‐off values in mind when purchasing apples and their choices have been modelled according to the Swait soft cut‐off approach. Non‐compensatory model estimations confirm previous evidence that ignoring thresholds in data sets that contain them leads to significant errors in terms of willingness to pay. Results suggest that respondents, besides preferring organic production, seem to not perceive the potential benefits of other sustainable production methods.
Importance of traceability for sustainable production: a cross‐country comparison
Authors: Myae Aye Chan , Goddard Ellen
Published: February 2012

Traceability systems are becoming an important tool for tracking, monitoring and managing product flows through food supply chains. Traceability can be used as a method of certifying production, processing and nutritional credence attributes of food products. Environmentally sustainable production is a credence attribute that is gaining in importance in the eyes of consumers. In this research, the importance of traceability in verifying environmentally sustainable production practices is examined. The data were collected in online surveys related to consumer's perceptions and concerns about food safety, trust and reported behaviour related to meat consumption in three countries – Canada, the US and Japan. Determinants of traceability in verifying environmentally sustainable production practices include respondents' locus of control about food safety, food purchasing characteristics such as whether they normally buy organic products or shop at supermarkets and general traits such as worry and trust. In comparing across countries, there are significant differences in the interests in traceability to verify environmentally sustainable production practices and in the determinants of level of importance ascribed.
Morality or economic interest? The impact of moral motives and economic factors on the purchase of fair trade groceries
Authors: Sunderer Georg , Rössel Jörg
Published: February 2012

In this article, we compare the impact of moral motives and economic factors on the purchase of fair trade groceries. Moral motives are measured by three different constructs, which are derived from different theoretical perspectives: one from the classical theory of attitude, one from the subjectively expected utility theory and one from the norm‐activation model. The empirical results of the analysis show that moral motives as well as economic factors are important determinants for explaining the purchase of fair trade groceries. Furthermore, the study indicates that the impact of moral motives is greater than that of economic factors, and among the moral factors, the personal norm is especially explanatorily powerful.
Nucleotides released from Aβ1–42‐treated microglial cells increase cell migration and Aβ1–42 uptake through P2Y2 receptor activation
Authors: Kim Hye Jung , Ajit Deepa , Peterson Troy S. , Wang Yanfang , Camden Jean M. , Gibson Wood W. , Sun Grace Y. , Erb Laurie , Petris Michael , Weisman Gary A.
Published: February 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 121, 228–238.

Amyloid β‐protein (Aβ) deposits in brains of Alzheimer’s disease patients generate proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines that recruit microglial cells to phagocytose Aβ. Nucleotides released from apoptotic cells activate P2Y2 receptors (P2Y2Rs) in macrophages to promote clearance of dead cells. In this study, we investigated the role of P2Y2Rs in the phagocytosis and clearance of Aβ. Treatment of mouse primary microglial cells with fibrillar (fAβ1–42) and oligomeric (oAβ1–42) Aβ1–42 aggregation solutions caused a rapid release of ATP (maximum after 10 min). Furthermore, fAβ1–42 and oAβ1–42 treatment for 24 h caused an increase in P2Y2R gene expression. Treatment with fAβ1–42 and oAβ1–42 aggregation solutions increased the motility of neighboring microglial cells, a response inhibited by pre‐treatment with apyrase, an enzyme that hydrolyzes nucleotides. The P2Y2R agonists ATP and UTP caused significant uptake of Aβ1–42 by microglial cells within 30 min, which reached a maximum within 1 h, but did not increase Aβ1–42 uptake by primary microglial cells isolated from P2Y2R−/− mice. Inhibitors of αv integrins, Src and Rac decreased UTP‐induced Aβ1–42 uptake, suggesting that these previously identified components of the P2Y2R signaling pathway play a role in Aβ phagocytosis by microglial cells. Finally, we found that UTP treatment enhances Aβ1–42 degradation by microglial cells, but not in cells isolated from P2Y2R−/− mice. Taken together, our findings suggest that P2Y2Rs can activate microglial cells to enhance Aβ clearance and highlight the P2Y2R as a therapeutic target in Alzheimer’s disease.
Characterization of the Drosophila adenosine receptor: the effect of adenosine analogs on cAMP signaling in Drosophila cells and their utility for in vivo experiments
Authors: Kucerova Lucie , Broz Vaclav , Fleischmannova Jana , Santruckova Eva , Sidorov Roman , Dolezal Vladimir , Zurovec Michal
Published: February 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 121, 383–395.

Adenosine receptors (AR) belonging to the G protein‐coupled receptor family influence a wide range of physiological processes. Recent elucidation of the structure of human A2AR revealed the conserved amino acids necessary for contact with the Ado moiety. However, the selectivity of Ado analogs for AR subtypes is still not well understood. We have shown previously that the Drosophila adenosine receptor (DmAdoR) evokes an increase in cAMP and calcium concentration in heterologous cells. In this study, we have characterized the second‐messenger stimulation by endogenous DmAdoR in a Drosophila neuroblast cell line and examined a number of Ado analogs for their ability to interact with DmAdoR. We show that Ado can stimulate cAMP but not calcium levels in Drosophila cells. We found one full and four partial DmAdoR agonists, as well as four antagonists. The employment of the full agonist, 2‐chloroadenosine, in flies mimicked in vivo the phenotype of DmAdoR over‐expression, whereas the antagonist, SCH58261, rescued the flies from the lethality caused by DmAdoR over‐expression. Differences in pharmacological effect of the tested analogs between DmAdoR and human A2AR can be partially explained by the dissimilarity of specific key amino acid residues disclosed by the alignment of these receptors.
The Relationship between Formal and Informal Care among Adult Medicaid Personal Care Services Recipients
Authors: McMaughan Moudouni Darcy K. , Ohsfeldt Robert L. , Miller Thomas R. , Phillips Charles D.
Published: February 2012

Objectives

To test hypotheses concerning the relationship between formal and informal care and to estimate the impact of hours of formal care authorized for Medicaid Personal Care Services (PCS) on the utilization of informal care.

Data Sources/Study Setting

Data included home care use and adult Medicaid beneficiary characteristics from assessments of PCS need in four Medicaid administrative areas in Texas.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional design using ordinary least‐squares (OLS) and instrumental variable (IV) methods.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

The study database consisted of assessment data on 471 adults receiving Medicaid PCS from 2004 to 2006.

Principal Findings

Both OLS and IV estimates of the impact of formal care on informal care indicated no statistically significant relationship. The impact of formal care authorized on informal care utilization was less important than the influence of beneficiary need and caregiver availability. Living with a potential informal caregiver dramatically increased the hours of informal care utilized by Medicaid PCS beneficiaries.

Conclusions

More formal home care hours were not associated with fewer informal home care hours. These results imply that policies that decrease the availability of formal home care for Medicaid PCS beneficiaries will not be offset by an increase in the provision of informal care and may result in unmet care needs.
What Is the Best Way to Estimate Hospital Quality Outcomes? A Simulation Approach
Authors: Ryan Andrew , Burgess James , Strawderman Robert , Dimick Justin
Published: February 2012

Objective

To test the accuracy of alternative estimators of hospital mortality quality using a Monte Carlo simulation experiment.

Data Sources

Data are simulated to create an admission‐level analytic dataset. The simulated data are validated by comparing distributional parameters (e.g., mean and standard deviation of 30‐day mortality rate, hospital sample size) with the same parameters observed in Medicare data for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) inpatient admissions.

Study Design

We perform a Monte Carlo simulation experiment in which true quality is known to test the accuracy of the Observed‐over‐Expected estimator, the Risk Standardized Mortality Rate (RSMR), the Dimick and Staiger (DS) estimator, the Hierarchical Poisson estimator, and the Moving Average estimator using hospital 30‐day mortality for AMI as the outcome. Estimator accuracy is evaluated for all hospitals and for small, medium, and large hospitals.

Data Extraction Methods

Data are simulated.

Principal Findings

Significant and substantial variation is observed in the accuracy of the tested outcome estimators. The DS estimator is the most accurate for all hospitals and for small hospitals using both accuracy criteria (root mean squared error and proportion of hospitals correctly classified into quintiles).

Conclusions

The mortality estimator currently in use by Medicare for public quality reporting, the RSMR, has been shown to be less accurate than the DS estimator, although the magnitude of the difference is not large. Pending testing and validation of our findings using current hospital data, CMS should reconsider the decision to publicly report mortality rates using the RSMR.
Medicaid, Hospital Financial Stress, and the Incidence of Adverse Medical Events for Children
Authors: Smith Richard B. , Dynan Linda , Fairbrother Gerry , Chabi Glen , Simpson Lisa
Published: February 2012

Objective

To assess the association between Medicaid‐induced financial stress of a hospital and the probability of an adverse medical event for a pediatric discharge.

Data Sources

Secondary data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project, and the American Hospital Association's Annual Survey of Hospitals. Study examines 985,896 pediatric discharges (children age 0–17), from 1,050 community hospitals in 26 states (representing 63 percent of the U.S. Medicaid population) between 2005 and 2007.

Study Design

We estimate the probability of an adverse event, controlling for patient, hospital, and state characteristics, using an aggregated, composite measure to overcome rarity of individual events.

Principal Findings

Children in hospitals with relatively high proportions of pediatric discharges that are more reliant on Medicaid reimbursement are more likely than children in other hospitals (odds ratio = 1.62) to experience an adverse event. Medicaid pediatric inpatients are more likely than privately insured patients (odds ratio = 1.10) to experience an adverse event.

Conclusions

Hospital reliance on comparatively low Medicaid reimbursement may contribute to the problem of adverse medical events for hospitalized children. Policies to reduce adverse events should account for differences in underlying, contributing factors of these events.
Curcumin inhibits gene expression of receptor for advanced glycation end‐products (RAGE) in hepatic stellate cells in vitro by elevating PPARγ activity and attenuating oxidative stress
Authors: Lin Jianguo , Tang Youcai , Kang Qiaohua , Feng Yunfeng , Chen Anping
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Diabetes is characterized by hyperglycaemia, which facilitates the formation of advanced glycation end‐products (AGEs). Type 2 diabetes mellitus is commonly accompanied by non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis, which could lead to hepatic fibrosis. Receptor for AGEs (RAGE) mediates effects of AGEs and is associated with increased oxidative stress, cell growth and inflammation. The phytochemical curcumin inhibits the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the major effectors during hepatic fibrogenesis. The aim of this study was to explore the underlying mechanisms of curcumin in the elimination of the stimulating effects of AGEs on the activation of HSCs. We hypothesize that curcumin eliminates the effects of AGEs by suppressing gene expression of RAGE.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Gene promoter activities were evaluated by transient transfection assays. The expression of rage was silenced by short hairpin RNA. Gene expression was analysed by real‐time PCR and Western blots. Oxidative stress was evaluated.

KEY RESULTS AGEs induced rage expression in cultured HSCs, which played a critical role in the AGEs‐induced activation of HSCs. Curcumin at 20 µM eliminated the AGE effects, which required the activation of PPARγ. In addition, curcumin attenuated AGEs‐induced oxidative stress in HSCs by elevating the activity of glutamate‐cysteine ligase and by stimulating de novo synthesis of glutathione, leading to the suppression of gene expression of RAGE.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Curcumin suppressed gene expression of RAGE by elevating the activity of PPARγ and attenuating oxidative stress, leading to the elimination of the AGE effects on the activation of HSCs.

LINKED ARTICLE This article is commented on by Stefanska, pp. 2209–2211 of this issue. To view this commentary visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2012.01959.x
Therapeutic potential of targeting hydrogen peroxide metabolism in the treatment of brain ischaemia
Authors: Armogida Marta , Nisticò Robert , Mercuri Nicola Biagio
Published: February 2012

For many years after its discovery, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was viewed as a toxic molecule to human tissues; however, in light of recent findings, it is being recognized as an ubiquitous endogenous molecule of life as its biological role has been better elucidated. Indeed, increasing evidence suggests that H2O2 may act as a second messenger with a pro‐survival role in several physiological processes. In addition, our group has recently demonstrated neuroprotective effects of H2O2 on in vitro and in vivo ischaemic models through a catalase (CAT) enzyme‐mediated mechanism. Therefore, the present review summarizes experimental data supporting a neuroprotective potential of H2O2 in ischaemic stroke that has been principally achieved by means of pharmacological and genetic strategies that modify either the activity or the expression of the superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and CAT enzymes, which are key regulators of H2O2 metabolism. It also critically discusses a translational impact concerning the role played by H2O2 in ischaemic stroke. Based on these data, we hope that further research will be done in order to better understand the mechanisms underlying H2O2 functions and to promote successful H2O2 signalling based therapy in ischaemic stroke.
Effect of Plasma Exchange on Hepatocyte Oxidative Stress, Mitochondria Function, and Apoptosis in Patients With Acute Fatty Liver of Pregnancy
Authors: Tang Wanxin , Huang Zhongying , Wang Yufang , Bo Hong , Fu Ping
Published: February 2012

Acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP) is an uncommon but clinically severe hepatopathy, and reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐mediated mitochondrial apoptosis may be its key pathogenesis. Traditional therapy is inadequate for patients with severe conditions so the application of plasma exchange (PE) has been attempted. The present study aims to determine whether or not PE can lessen injuries to hepatocytes by ameliorating ROS and mitochondrial functions. Thirteen patients with AFLP were included in the experimental group, while fifteen patients made up the case‐control group. PE was applied to patients in the PE group once a day for 1–3 days. Cultured hepatocytes were treated with serum or replacement fluid from patients and controls, respectively. Malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase (SOD), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), caspase‐3, caspase‐9, and apoptosis of hepatocytes were measured. The clinical details and prognoses were also assessed. Patients in the experimental group had shorter durations of hepatic function recovery, intensive care unit (ICU) stay, and hospitalization than those in the case‐control group, although both groups showed the same mortality. PE could induce the production of SOD, inhibit the production of malondialdehyde, and recover MMP. The upregulation of caspase‐3 and caspase‐9 expression, as well as increase in apoptosis rate in the AFLP group, could be inhibited by PE. Moreover, PE also appeared to have a dose‐dependent effect. PE protects hepatocytes by reducing damage to the mitochondria caused by oxidative stress; thus, it could be beneficial in the treatment of patients with severe AFLP and induce liver function recovery.
Update on Small‐Diameter Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator Leads Performance
Authors: VAN REES JOHANNES B. , VAN WELSENES GUIDO H. , BORLEFFS C. JAN WILLEM , THIJSSEN JOEP , VAN DER VELDE ENNO T. , VAN DER WALL ERNST E. , VAN ERVEN LIESELOT , SCHALIJ MARTIN J.
Published: February 2012

Background:

The performance of small diameter implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) leads is questionable. However, data on performance during long‐term follow‐up are scarce. The aim of this study is to provide an update for the lead failure and cardiac perforation rate of Medtronic's Sprint Fidelis ICD lead (Medtronic Inc., Minneapolis, MN, USA) and St. Jude Medical's Riata ICD lead (St. Jude Medical Inc., St. Paul, MN, USA).

Methods:

Since 1996, all ICD system implantations at the Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands, are registered. For this study, data up to February 2011 on 396 Sprint Fidelis leads (follow‐up 3.4 ± 1.5 years), 165 8‐French (F) Riata leads (follow‐up 4.6 ± 2.6 years), and 30 7‐F Riata leads (follow‐up 2.9 ± 1.3 years) were compared with a benchmark cohort of 1,602 ICD leads (follow‐up 3.4 ± 2.7 years) and assessed for the occurrence of lead failure and cardiac perforation.

Results:

During follow‐up, the yearly lead failure rate of the Sprint Fidelis lead, 7‐F Riata lead, 8‐F Riata lead, and the benchmark cohort was 3.54%, 2.28%, 0.78%, and 1.14%, respectively. In comparison to the benchmark cohort, the adjusted hazard ratio of lead failure was 3.7 (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.4–5.7, P < 0.001) for the Sprint Fidelis lead and 4.2 (95% CI 1.0–18.0, P < 0.05) for the 7‐F Riata lead. One cardiac perforation was observed (3.3%) in the 7‐F Riata group versus none in the 8‐F Riata and Sprint Fidelis lead population.

Conclusion:

The current update demonstrates that the risk of lead failure during long‐term follow‐up is significantly increased for both the Sprint Fidelis and the 7‐F Riata lead in comparison to the benchmark cohort. Only one cardiac perforation occurred.
(PACE 2012; 35:652–658)
Repeat Percutaneous Epicardial Mapping and Ablation of Ventricular Tachycardia: Safety and Outcome
Authors: TSCHABRUNN CORY M. , HAQQANI HARIS M. , ZADO ERICA S. , MARCHLINSKI FRANCIS E.
Published: February 2012

Safety and Efficacy of Repeat Epicardial Access.

Introduction: Epicardial mapping and ablation of ventricular tachycardia (VT) has been increasingly performed. Occasionally additional ablation is necessary, requiring repeat percutaneous access to the pericardial space.

Methods and Results: We studied 30 consecutive patients who required a repeat epicardial procedure. We specifically examined the success and safety of repeat percutaneous pericardial access as well as the ability to map and ablate epicardial VT targets. Percutaneous pericardial access at a median of 110 days after the last procedure was successful in all 30 patients. Significant adhesions interfering with catheter mapping were encountered in 7 patients (23%); 6 had received intrapericardial triamcinolone acetate (IPTA) with prior procedures. Using blunt dissection with a deflected ablation catheter and a steerable sheath, adhesions were divided allowing for complete catheter mapping in 5 patients with areas of dense adherence compartmentalizing the pericardium in 1 patient and precluding ablation over previously targeted ablation site in the second. Targeted VT noninducibility was achieved in 27 (90%) patients including 7 patients with adhesions. No direct complications related to pericardial access or adhesions disruption occurred. One periprocedural death occurred from refractory cardiogenic shock in patient with LV ejection fraction of 10%. Another patient developed asymptomatic positive Haemophilus influenzae pericardial fluid cultures identified at second procedure, which was successfully treated.

Conclusions: Repeat access can be obtained after prior epicardial ablation. Adhesions from prior procedures may limit mapping, but can usually be disrupted mechanically and allow for ablation of recurrent VT. IPTA may not completely prevent adhesions. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 744‐749, July 2012)
Factors associated with complications and conversion to laparotomy in women undergoing laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy
Authors: SONG TAEJONG , KIM TAE‐JOONG , KANG HEESEOK , LEE YOO‐YOUNG , CHOI CHEL HUN , LEE JEONG‐WON , KIM BYOUNG‐GIE , BAE DUK‐SOO
Published: February 2012

Objective. To identify risk factors for complications and conversion to laparotomy in women undergoing laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH). Design. Retrospective study. Setting. Tertiary referral hospital. Population. All 2012 consecutive women who underwent LAVH for non‐malignant diseases in a single institution. Methods. Retrospective study. Main outcome measures. Operative complications and conversion to laparotomy. Results. Most of the LAVHs were successful, but conversion to laparotomy was required in 97 women (4.8%) because of pelvic adhesion (n= 71), large uterine size (n= 18) or bowel injury (n= 8). There were 45 women (2.2%) with complications (bladder injury, 26; bowel injury, 9; vascular injury, 9; and ureteral injury, 1). A history of previous cesarean section (twice or more) was a significant risk factor for complications [odds ratio (OR) 3.38]. A body mass index ≥30 kg/m2 (OR 2.98), history of previous myomectomy (OR 6.19) and uterine weight ≥500 g (OR 3.24) independently influenced the risk of conversion to laparotomy. Conclusions. Risk factors identified in this study include a history of previous cesarean section (twice or more) and myomectomy, body mass index ≥30 kg/m2 and uterine weight ≥500 g. The findings may be useful in counseling women preoperatively about the potential complications of LAVH.
The Link between Self‐ and Societal Interests in Theory and Practice
Authors: LIN‐HI NICK , BLUMBERG IGOR
Published: February 2012

This paper explores the relationship between self‐ and societal interests and addresses the problem of irresponsible profit generation in practice. By contrasting the neo‐classical assumptions about the role of self‐interest in promoting societal interests with empirical evidence, the paper elaborates on the following point: self‐ and societal interests are not at odds but they do not automatically coincide in reality because markets are never perfect. Thus, the problem of the pursuit of self‐interest at the expense of others cannot simply be solved by creating more markets. In this paper, it is argued that the danger of irresponsible realization of profits becomes more significant with increasing focus on short‐term goals. Accordingly, the paper pleads for the promotion of long‐term orientation in markets as a means of bringing self‐ and societal interests closer together.
Entrepreneurship as Institutional Change: Strategies of Bridging Institutional Contradictions
Authors: BJERREGAARD TOKE , LAURING JAKOB
Published: February 2012

This paper responds to calls to make more explicit linkages between institutional theory and entrepreneurship research through studies on how entrepreneurs navigate and work with institutions. The research examines the micro‐strategies and activities through which small‐scale entrepreneurs maneuver between and exploit the multiple, potentially contradictory institutional logics of the different spheres in which they operate. While much research has elucidated how institutional entrepreneurs effect change, this study illustrates how effective entrepreneurs managing and exploiting institutional contradictions engage simultaneously in practices of maintaining and changing institutions to establish a balance between the poles on which their ventures depend. We illustrate this by two cases of small‐scale entrepreneurship bridging institutional contradictions from an ethnographic study conducted under the ongoing efforts to implement liberal democracy in Malawi. This transition comprises attempts to build stronger pillars for democratic governance such as the development of a market economy.
Review article: Management of cyanide poisoning
Authors: Reade Michael C , Davies Suzanne R , Morley Peter T , Dennett Jennifer , Jacobs Ian C ,   the Australian Resuscitation Council
Published: February 2012

Cyanide poisoning is uncommon, but generates interest because of the presumed utility of an antidote immediately available in those areas with a high risk of cyanide exposure. As part of its regular review of guidelines, the Australian Resuscitation Council conducted a systematic review of the human evidence for the use of various proposed cyanide antidotes, and a narrative review of the relevant pharmacological and animal studies. There have been no relevant comparative or placebo‐controlled human trials. Nine case series were identified. Treatment with hydroxocobalamin was reported in a total of 361 cases. No serious adverse effects of hydroxocobalamin were reported, and many patients with otherwise presumably fatal poisoning survived. Sodium thiosulphate use was reported in two case series, similarly with no adverse effects. Treatment with a combination of sodium nitrite, amyl nitrite and sodium thiosulphate was reported in 74 patients, with results indistinguishable from those of hydroxocobalamin and sodium thiosulphate. No case series using dicobalt edetate or 4‐dimethylaminophenol were identified, but successful use in single cases has been reported. Hydroxocobalamin and sodium thiosulphate differ from alternatives in having negligible adverse effects, and on the basis of current evidence are the antidotes of choice. The indications for the use of an antidote, the requirements for supportive care and a recommended approach for workplaces where there is a risk of cyanide poisoning are presented.
Legacy of Lionel McKenzie, 1
Authors: Jones Ronald W. , Nishimura Kazuo , Yano Makoto
Published: February 2012

This article is an introduction to the first part of the special issue dedicated to the late Professor Lionel McKenzie, covering his contribution to economic dynamics and equilibrium theory. The article relates his work to the papers included in this special issue and to those of his former students so as to illustrate his influence on economic theory as well as his contribution to economics as an educator.
Towards Safer and More Predictable Drug Treatment – Reflections from Studies of the First BCPT Prize Awardee
Authors: Neuvonen Pertti J.
Published: February 2012

This MiniReview is a personal recollection of selected research topics, which the author in collaboration with colleagues has studied, aiming to improve the predictability of drug therapy. In early studies, we found bi‐ and trivalent cations to reduce the absorption of various tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones. Certain antacids elevated the bioavailability of some non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs and sulphonylureas. Various brands of phenytoin tablets revealed great differences in their bioavailability, causing clinical consequences. Numerous factors affecting the antidotal effect of activated charcoal were also studied, with charcoal compared to other gastrointestinal decontamination methods, including ipecac and gastric lavage. Effect of age and diseases on the pharmacokinetics of drugs was a research topic. Acute sotalol intoxications revealed its QT‐prolonging properties, and even small mixed overdoses of moclobemide with serotonergic drugs proved fatal. Itraconazole and other potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 could drastically increase exposure to drugs like midazolam, triazolam, buspirone, lovastatin, simvastatin and oxycodone, whereas rifampicin greatly reduced their plasma concentrations. A change from potent inhibition to induction caused a 400‐fold change in the exposure to oral midazolam. CYP2C8 was revealed to be crucial in the metabolism and interactions of several drugs. Many interactions affecting statins are CYP3A4‐mediated, but transporters are important in certain interactions. Tizanidine is very susceptible to CYP1A2 inhibition. Fruit juices such as grapefruit juice can raise or lower exposure to different drugs. Both drug interactions and pharmacogenetics can modify the activity of cell membrane transporters and cause variability in the pharmacokinetics of and response to their substrate drugs.
Identification and Validation of a Major Quantitative Trait Locus for Slow‐rusting Resistance to Stripe Rust in WheatF
Authors: Cao Xiaohua , Zhou Jianghong , Gong Xiaoping , Zhao Guangyao , Jia Jizeng , Qi Xiaoquan
Published: February 2012

Stripe (yellow) rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis Westend. f. sp. tritici Eriks (Pst), is one of the most important wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) diseases and causes significant yield losses. A recombinant inbred (RI) population derived from a cross between Yanzhan 1 and Xichang 76‐9 cultivars was evaluated for resistance to wheat stripe rust strain CYR32 at both the seedling and adult plant stages. Four resistance quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were detected in this population, in which the major one, designated as Yrq1, was mapped on chromosome 2DS. The strategy of using the Brachypodium distachyon genome, wheat expressed sequence tags and a draft DNA sequences (scaffolds) of the D‐genome (Aegilops tauschii Coss.) for the development of simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers was successfully used to identify 147 SSRs in hexaploid wheat. Of the 19 polymorphic SSRs in the RI population, 17 SSRs were mapped in the homeologous group 2 chromosomes near Yrq1 region and eight SSRs were genetically mapped in the 2.7 cM region of Yrq1, providing abundant DNA markers for fine‐mapping of Yrq1 and marker‐assisted selection in wheat breeding program. The effectiveness of Yrq1 was validated in an independent population, indicating that this resistance QTL can be successfully transferred into a susceptible cultivar for improvement of stripe rust resistance.
Identification and Fine Mapping of rhm1 Locus for Resistance to Southern Corn Leaf Blight in MaizeF
Authors: Zhao Yuanzeng , Lu Xiaomin , Liu Chaoxian , Guan Haiying , Zhang Mei , Li Zhongfeng , Cai Hongwei , Lai Jinsheng
Published: February 2012

rhm1 is a major recessive disease resistance locus for Southern corn leaf blight (SCLB). To further narrow down its genetic position, F2 population and BC1F1 population derived from the cross between resistant (H95rhm) and susceptible parents (H95) of maize (Zea mays) were constructed. Using newly developed markers, rhm1 was initially delimited within an interval of 2.5 Mb, and then finally mapped to a 8.56 kb interval between InDel marker IDP961–503 and simple sequence repeat (SSR) marker A194149–1. Three polymorphic markers IDP961–504, IDP B2–3 and A194149–2 were shown to be co‐segregated with the rhm1 locus. Sequence analysis of the 8.56 kb DNA fragment revealed that it contained only one putative gene with a predicted amino acid sequence identical to lysine histidine transporter 1 (LHT1). Comparative sequence analysis indicated that the LHT1 in H95rhm harbors a 354 bp insertion in its third exon as compared with that of susceptible alleles in B73, H95 and Mo17. The 354 bp insertion resulted in a truncation of the predicted protein of candidate resistance allele (LHT1‐H95rhm). Our results strongly suggest LHT1 as the candidate gene for rhm1 against SCLB. The tightly linked molecular markers developed in this study can be directly used for molecular breeding of resistance to Southern corn leaf blight in maize.
The Cross‐Pressures of Religion and Contact with Gays and Lesbians, and Their Impact on Same‐Sex Marriage Opinion
Authors: BRAMLETT BRITTANY H.
Published: February 2012

This article examines the influence of two cross‐pressures, religion and contact with gay individuals in the United States, on same‐sex marriage opinion. Close relationships with gays and lesbians may influence people of varying faiths differently or not at all. Results indicate that despite religious teachings against homosexuality, people of most religious traditions are more likely to support same‐sex marriage when they have a close relationship with a gay individual. The effects are the greatest for black Protestants and Latino Catholics. However, white Protestants with close relationships with gay people are just as opposed to same‐sex marriage as those without similar contact.

Este artículo examina la influencia de dos opiniones incompatibles, la religión y el contacto con personas homosexuales en la opinión sobre los matrimonios del mismo sexo en los estados unidos. El contacto cercano con gays o lesbianas puede influenciar la opinión de personas creyentes en cierto grado o nada en lo absoluto. Los resultados muestran que a pesar de las escrituras religiosas en contra de la homosexualidad, las personas pertenecientes a la mayoría de las tradiciones religiosas son más probables de apoyar matrimonios del mismo sexo cuando éstas tienen una relación cercana con un individuo gay. Los efectos son mayores en afroamericanos protestantes y católicos latinoamericanos. Sin embargo, estadounidenses blancos protestantes relacionados con personas gay se oponen a los matrimonios del mismo sexo tanto como aquellos que no tienen un contacto similar.

Related Articles:“Changing Public Opinion on Same‐Sex Marriage,” (2011, free): http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2007.00092.x/full“The Impact of Contact with Gay and Lesbian Couples,” (2009): http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2007.00160.x/abstract“Limitations of the Contact Hypothesis,” (2010) http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2010.00262.x/abstract
Maximizing Journal Article Citation Online: Readers, Robots, and Research Visibility
Authors: NORMAN EMMA R.
Published: February 2012

Online peer‐reviewed academic journals bring much‐touted benefits to authors. They can enhance an article's visibility, link one's research rapidly to the appropriate web of key literature, and bring it to the attention of more scholars who will use it, thus boosting the chances of maximized citation hits. Yet writing an article for online distribution in a way that takes advantage of these benefits is different from preparing one for print journals in some small, but important, respects. To be cited, articles have to be both visible in an electronic environment and perceptively relevant to their key audience from the outset. After introducing the first online‐only issue of Politics & Policy (a print‐driven journal for 40 years), the editor covers some techniques authors should consider when submitting to online journals, from writing a search engine‐friendly title and abstract to tips on how authors can maximize visibility once an article is published.

Related Article:“Teaching the Net Generation,” (2011): http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2011.00287.x/abstract

Related Media: Podcast (Bowling 2009): http://wileyblackwellexchanges.com/2011/11/19/publishing‐workshop‐the‐online‐author's‐survival‐guide/Podcast (London School of Economics 2011b): http://blogs.lse.ac.uk/impactofsocialsciences/podcasts/Video clip (Roy 2011): http://www.ted.com/talks/deb_roy_the_birth_of_a_word.html
Engineering cellular trafficking via glycosyltransferase‐programmed stereosubstitution
Authors: Sackstein Robert
Published: February 2012

The proximate hurdle for cell trafficking to any anatomic site is the initial attachment of circulating cells to target tissue endothelium with sufficient strength to overcome prevailing forces of blood flow. E‐selectin, an endothelial molecule that is inducibly expressed at all sites of inflammation, is a potent effector of this primary braking process. This molecule is a member of a family of C‐type lectins known as selectins that bind sialofucosylated glycans displayed on either a protein (i.e., glycoprotein) or lipid (i.e., glycolipid) scaffold. On human cells, the predominant E‐selectin ligand is a specialized glycoform of CD44 known as hematopoietic cell E‐/L‐selectin ligand (HCELL). This review focuses on the biology of HCELL/E‐selectin interactions in cell migration, and discusses the utility and applicability of glycosyltransferase‐programmed stereosubstitution (GPS) for glycoengineering HCELL expression. Without compromising cell viability or native phenotype, this exoglycosylation technology literally “sweetens” CD44, licensing E‐selectin–dependent vascular delivery for all cell‐based therapeutics.
Harnessing the world's biodiversity data: promise and peril in ecological niche modeling of species distributions
Authors: Anderson Robert P.
Published: February 2012

Recent advances allow harnessing enormous stores of biological and environmental data to model species niches and geographic distributions. Natural history museums hold specimens that represent the only information available for most species. Ecological niche models (sometimes termedspecies distribution models) combine such information with digital environmental data (especially climatic) to offer key insights for conservation biology, management of invasive species, zoonotic human diseases, and other pressing environmental problems. Five major pitfalls seriously hinder such research, especially for cross‐space or cross‐time uses: (1) incorrect taxonomic identifications; (2) lacking or inadequate databasing and georeferences; (3) effects of sampling bias across geography; (4) violation of assumptions related to selection of the study region; and (5) problems regarding model evaluation to identify optimal model complexity. Large‐scale initiatives regarding data availability and quality, technological development, and capacity building should allow high‐quality modeling on a scale commensurate with the enormous potential of and need for these techniques.
The Profile in Polyphenols and Volatile Compounds in Alcoholic Beverages from Different Cultivars of Mulberry
Authors: Juan Chen , Jianquan Kan , Junni Tang , Zijian Cai , Ji Liu
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Mulberry fruits have different chemical compositions because of cultivar variation. In this study, polyphenol profile and volatile composition of alcoholic beverages produced from different mulberries of Da 10, Hongguo 2 hao, and Hongguo 1 hao were investigated. Statistically significant differences were detected in the chemical composition of the analyzed alcoholic beverage samples. The beverage of Da 10 possessed the highest content of total phenols, total flavonoids, and total anthocyanins, which was determined by spectrophotometry analysis, contrarily Hongguo 1 hao beverage showing the lowest. Phenolic acids and flavonols were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography analysis. Protocatechuic acid was the main phenolic acid in all analyzed alcoholic beverage samples, and its concentration ranged from 8.20 mg L−1 (Hongguo 1 hao beverage) to 29.98 mg L−1 (Da 10 beverage). High level of flavonols was found in both Da 10 and Hongguo 2 hao beverage samples, whereas Hongguo 1 hao beverage sample was characterized with lower level of flavonols. Furthermore, volatile compounds were analyzed by solid phase microextraction‐gas chromatography mass spectrometry analysis. The amount of esters varied widely among the 3 alcoholic beverage samples. The concentration of aliphatic alcohols in Hongguo 2 hao and 1 hao beverage samples was higher than Da 10 sample, whereas Da 10 beverage sample contained more aromatic alcohols than the others. Hongguo 1 beverage sample showed the highest concentration of acetic acid. This study demonstrated that quantitative differences of phenolic compounds and volatile compounds among cultivars were significant, which highly affected the quality of alcoholic beverage from mulberry.

Practical Application:  Mulberry fruits had different chemical compositions because of cultivar variation. The analyzed Da 10 cultivar of mulberry appeared to be a good raw material for alcoholic beverage‐making because of its high level of total sugar and acidity. This study demonstrated that alcoholic beverages from mulberry contain high amounts of polyphenols. These bioactive compounds may act synergistically to promote health, and reduce risk factors of chronic diseases.
Reverse‐Transcriptase Loop‐Mediated Isothermal Amplification as a Rapid Screening/Monitoring Tool for Salmonella Enterica Detection in Liquid Whole Eggs
Authors: Techathuvanan Chayapa , D'Souza Doris Helen
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Reverse‐transcriptase loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (RT‐LAMP) is a novel molecular detection method that is specific, fast, and simple. It is based on reverse transcription followed by DNA amplification using the Bst DNA polymerase large fragment requiring one temperature and a simple waterbath, without the need for any expensive equipment. Detection is by turbidity or agarose gel electrophoresis. Our objective was to apply this LAMP‐based technology to rapidly and sensitively detect Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis in liquid whole eggs (LWEs) within 1 d. LWE were inoculated with S. Enteritidis and stomached in tetrathionate broth (TTB), and spread‐plated on Xylose lysine tergitol 4 agar either immediately or after 6, 12, or 16‐h enrichment. RNA was extracted from 5‐mL TTB and the RT‐LAMP assay was carried out using invA primers. After 16 and 12‐h enrichment, improved Salmonella detection up to 100 to 101 and104 CFU/25 mL LWE, respectively was obtained. Without enrichment, Salmonella could be detected at 107 CFU/25 mL; however, after 6‐h enrichment a 1‐log improvement to 106 CFU/25 mL was obtained. This RT‐LAMP assay appears to be suitable as a potential screening/monitoring tool for Salmonella enterica from LWE products in routine settings with results obtainable within 24‐h, which is significantly faster than traditional cultural assays.
Glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide signaling in pancreatic β‐cells and adipocytes
Authors: McIntosh Christopher HS , Widenmaier Scott , Kim Su‐Jin
Published: February 2012

Glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) was the first incretin to be identified. In addition to stimulating insulin secretion, GIP plays regulatory roles in the maintenance, growth and survival of pancreatic islets, as well as impacting on adipocyte function. The current review focuses on the intracellular signaling pathways by which GIP contributes to the regulation of β‐cell secretion and survival, and adipocyte differentiation and lipogenesis. Studies on signaling underlying the insulinotropic actions of the incretin hormones have largely been carried out with glucagon‐like peptide‐1. They have provided evidence for contributions by both protein kinase A (PKA) and exchange protein directly activated by cyclic adenosine monophosphate (EPAC2), and their probable role in GIP signaling is discussed. Recent studies have shown that inhibition of the kinase apoptosis signal‐regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) by GIP plays a key role in reducing mitochondria‐induced apoptosis in β‐cells through protein kinase B (PKB)‐mediated pathways, and that GIP‐induced post‐translational modification of voltage‐ dependent K+ (Kv) channels also contributes to its prosurvival role. Through regulation of gene expression, GIP tips the balance between pro‐ and anti‐apoptotic members of the B‐cell lymphoma‐2 (Bcl‐2) protein family towards β‐cell survival. GIP also plays important roles in the differentiation of pre‐adipocytes to adipocytes, and in the regulation of lipoprotein lipase expression and lipogenesis. These events involve interactions between GIP, insulin and resistin signaling pathways. (J Diabetes Invest, doi: 10.1111/j.2040‐1124.2012.00196.x, 2012)