bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review of logistic regression models used to predict post-fire tree mortality of western North American conifers
Authors: Woolley Travis , Shaw David C. , Ganio Lisa M. , Fitzgerald Stephen
Published: November 2011

Logistic regression models used to predict tree mortality are critical to post-fire management, planning prescribed burns and understanding disturbance ecology. We review literature concerning post-fire mortality prediction using logistic regression models for coniferous tree species in the western USA. We include synthesis and review of: methods to develop, evaluate and interpret logistic regression models; explanatory variables in logistic regression models; factors influencing scope of inference and model limitations; model validation; and management applications. Logistic regression is currently the most widely used and available technique for predicting post-fire tree mortality. Over 100 logistic regression models have been developed to predict post-fire tree mortality for 19 coniferous species following wild and prescribed fires. The most widely used explanatory variables in post-fire tree mortality logistic regression models have been measurements of crown (e.g. crown scorch) and stem (e.g. bole char) injury. Prediction of post-fire tree mortality improves when crown and stem variables are used collectively. Logistic regression models that predict post-fire tree mortality are the basis of simple field tools and contribute to larger fire-effects models. Future post-fire tree mortality prediction models should include consistent definition of model variables, model validation and direct incorporation of physiological responses that link to process modelling efforts.
Relevance-Driven Information Search in “Pseudodiagnostic” Reasoning
Authors: Villejoubert Gaëlle , Vallée-Tourangeau Frédéric
Published: November 2011

When faced with two competing hypotheses, people sometimes prefer to look at multiple sources of information in support of one hypothesis rather than to establish the diagnostic value of a single piece of information for the two hypotheses. This is termed pseudodiagnostic reasoning and has often been understood to reflect, among other things, poor information search strategies. Past research suggests that diagnostic reasoning may be more easily fostered when participants seek data to help in the selection of one of two competing courses of action as opposed to situations where they seek data to help infer which of two competing hypotheses is true. In the experiment reported here, we provide the first empirical evidence demonstrating that manipulating the relevance of the feature for which participants initially receive information determines whether they will make a nominally diagnostic or pseudodiagnostic selection. The discussion of these findings focuses on implications for the ability to engage in diagnostic hypothesis testing.
Disruption mitigation by massive gas injection in JET
Authors: Lehnen M. , Alonso A. , Arnoux G. , Baumgarten N. , Bozhenkov S.A. , Brezinsek S. , Brix M. , Eich T. , Gerasimov S.N. , Huber A. , Jachmich S. , Kruezi U. , Morgan P.D. , Plyusnin V.V. , Reux C. , Riccardo V. , Sergienko G. , Stamp M.F.
Published: November 2011

Disruption mitigation is mandatory for ITER in order to reduce forces, to mitigate heat loads during the thermal quench and to avoid runaway electrons (REs). A fast disruption mitigation valve has been installed at JET to study mitigation by massive gas injection. Different gas species and amounts have been investigated with respect to timescales and mitigation efficiency. We discuss the mitigation of halo currents as well as sideways forces during vertical displacement events, the mitigation of heat loads by increased energy dissipation through radiation, the heat loads which could arise by asymmetric radiation and the suppression of REs.
Borsuk-Ulam type theorems for manifolds
Authors: Musin Oleg
Published: November 2011

This paper establishes a Borsuk-Ulam type theorem for PL- manifolds with a finite group action, depending on the free equivariant cobordism class of a manifold. In particular, necessary and sufficient conditions are considered for a manifold with a free involution to be of Borsuk-Ulam type.
Impact of an anticyclonic eddy on the summer nutrient and chlorophyll a distributions in the Ulleung Basin, East Sea (Japan Sea)
Authors: Kim Dongseon , Yang Eun Jin , Kim Kyung Hee , Shin Chang-Woong , Park Jisoo , Yoo Sinjae , Hyun Jung-Ho
Published: November 2011

Kim, D., Yang, E. J., Kim, K. H., Shin, C-W., Park, J., Yoo, S., and Hyun, J-H. 2012. Impact of an anticyclonic eddy on the summer nutrient and chlorophyll a distributions in the Ulleung Basin, East Sea (Japan Sea). – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 69: 23–29. The impact of the anticyclonic Ulleung Warm Eddy (UWE) on the vertical distributions of nutrient and chlorophyll a (Chl a) concentrations in the Ulleung Basin (UB) was investigated during the contrasting summers of 2005 and 2007. The physical structure of the water column was characterized by an intrathermocline eddy (ITE) in 2005, whereas the UWE remained distant from the sampling transect in 2007. Water column structures appeared to be highly stratified, and nutrients in the surface waters were totally depleted at all stations. In 2005, an exceptionally high concentration of Chl a (5.5 mg m−3) was measured below the surface mixed layer in the eddy core (station D3), and values of ∼2.5 mg m–3 were observed at the eddy edge (stations D2 and D4). Formation of an ITE efficiently mixed surface and deep-ocean waters, the latter supplying sufficient nutrients to generate an extremely high concentration of Chl a at the base of the subsurface layer. Overall, the results indicated that the anticyclonic UWE plays a key ecological role in supporting substantial phytoplankton biomass in the nutrient-depleted surface waters in summer and maintaining high benthic mineralization in the deep-sea sediments of the UB.
Determination of the Optimal Mean Arterial Pressure for Postbleeding Resuscitation after Hemorrhagic Shock in Rats
Authors: Li Tao , Zhu Yu , Fang Yuqiang , Liu Liangming
Published: November 2011

Background

The authors previously found that 50-60 mmHg mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) was an optimal target resuscitation pressure for hemorrhagic shock before bleeding was controlled in rats. However, the optimal target resuscitation pressure for hemorrhagic shock after bleeding has been controlled has not been determined.

Methods

A model of uncontrolled hemorrhagic shock was initiated in anesthetized Wistar rats. After 1-h hypotensive resuscitation and bleeding was stopped, rats received fluid resuscitation to different target MAPs (50, 70, or 90 mmHg) with lactated Ringer's solution (LR), 6% hydroxyethyl starch (HES), LR+HES (2:1) or LR+whole blood (2:1) for 2 h. Animal survival, hemodynamic parameters, and vital organ functions were observed.

Results

After bleeding had been controlled, mildly hypotensive resuscitation at a target MAP of 70 mmHg increased the survival time and survival rate compared with a target MAP of 50 mmHg and 90 mmHg (P < 0.05 or 0.01). Hemodynamic parameters, cardiac output, oxygen delivery, and vital organ function (including mitochondrial function) in 70 mmHg target MAP groups were better than in other two-target pressure groups (P < 0.05 or 0.01). Among the fluids tested, LR+whole blood (2:1) or LR+HES130 (2:1) had better effects than LR or HES alone at each level of target blood pressure.

Conclusion

Mildly hypotensive resuscitation is also needed for hemorrhagic shock after bleeding has been controlled, irrespective of whether crystalloids or colloids are used. The optimal target pressure was 70 mmHg in our rat model. A resuscitation pressure that is too low or too high cannot produce a good resuscitative effect.
Genetic Prevalence and Characteristics in Children With Recurrent Pancreatitis
Authors: Sultan Mutaz , Werlin Steven , Venkatasubramani Narayanan
Published: November 2011

Aims:

The causes of chronic (CP) and recurrent acute pancreatitis (RAP) in children include anatomic abnormalities and hereditary, metabolic, and autoimmune disorders, with a significant proportion of cases being labeled as idiopathic. Genetic pancreatitis (GP) is associated with mutations of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductor regulator gene (CFTR), cationic trypsinogen (PRSS1) gene, and serine protease inhibitor Kazal type 1 (SPINK1). There literature is sparse regarding the clinical profile of GP in children. The aim of the present study was to estimate the prevalence and describe the clinical characteristics and outcome of genetic pancreatitis.

Methods:

We reviewed the charts of children ages 18 years or younger with RAP or CP diagnosed from 2000 to 2009 at the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. Twenty‐nine patients with RAP or CP were identified, of whom 23 (79%) were positive for mutations in ≥1 of the above‐mentioned genes, and were included for review.

Results:

The median age of symptom onset was 5 years (range 9 months–15 years) with diagnosis at 6.5 years (range 1–16 years). Twenty‐one were white; 14 were girls. The most common presenting symptoms were abdominal pain and vomiting. Patients with RAP had 2 to 8 episodes of pancreatitis during 3.6‐year average follow‐up. Family history was positive in 5 of 29 of gene‐tested patients. CFTR, SPINK1, or PRSS1 mutations were seen in 14 (48%), 8 (27%), and 7 (24%) patients, respectively. Two patients were homozygous for CFTR mutations, 6 heterozygote and 4 patients had 5 T variants. Two other patients had double heterozygous mutations in F508 del/2789 + 5G > A and F508 del/5T variant. Six patients with CP had a combination of CFTR and SPINK1 or PRSS1 mutations. Eleven of 29 (38%) patients met radiological criteria for CP. All of the heterozygote patients with a combination of CFTR and SPINK1 or PRSS1 mutations had CP. Eight patients developed a chronic pain syndrome and 2 developed exocrine pancreatic insufficiency during follow‐up.

Conclusions:

We found a high prevalence of genetic mutations in patients without anatomic or metabolic abnormalities known to be associated with pancreatitis. Studies are needed to ascertain the genetic causes of RAP and CP and examine the relation between single CFTR mutations and single mutations in the PRSS1 and SPINK1 genes.
Human Milk Adiponectin Affects Infant Weight Trajectory During the Second Year of Life
Authors: Woo Jessica G. , Guerrero M. Lourdes , Guo Fukun , Martin Lisa J. , Davidson Barbara S. , Ortega Hilda , Ruiz‐Palacios Guillermo M. , Morrow Ardythe L.
Published: November 2011

Objective:

Serum adiponectin (APN) is associated with lower childhood obesity, and APN concentration in human milk is associated with slower growth during active breast‐feeding. We examined infant weight gain in the second year of life after exposure to high or low levels of mother's milk APN.

Methods:

Breast‐feeding mother–infant pairs were recruited in Mexico City and studied for 2 years; 192 infants with at least 12 months' follow‐up were analyzed. Monthly milk samples were assayed for APN; mothers were classified as producing high or low levels of milk APN. Infant and maternal serum APN were assessed during year 1. Infant anthropometry was measured monthly (year 1) or bimonthly (year 2), and World Health Organization z scores were calculated. Longitudinal adjusted models assessed weight‐for‐age and weight‐for‐length z score trajectories from 1 to 2 years.

Results:

Maternal serum APN modestly correlated with milk APN (r = 0.37, P < 0.0001) and infant serum APN (r = 0.29, P = 0.01). Infants exposed to high milk APN experienced increasing weight‐for‐age and weight‐for‐length z scores between age 1 and 2 years in contrast to low milk APN exposure (P for group × time = 0.02 and 0.054, respectively), adjusting for growth in the first 6 months and other covariates. In contrast, infant serum APN in year 1 was not associated with the rate of weight gain in year 2.

Conclusions:

High human milk APN exposure was associated with accelerated weight trajectory during the second year of life, suggesting its role in catch‐up growth after slower weight gain during the first year of life.
Drought and Salt Stress Tolerance of an Arabidopsis Glutathione S-Transferase U17 Knockout Mutant Are Attributed to the Combined Effect of Glutathione and Abscisic Acid
Authors: Chen Jui-Hung , Jiang Han-Wei , Hsieh En-Jung , Chen Hsing-Yu , Chien Ching-Te , Hsieh Hsu-Liang , Lin Tsan-Piao
Published: November 2011

Although glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are thought to play major roles in oxidative stress metabolism, little is known about the regulatory functions of GSTs. We have reported that Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) GLUTATHIONE S-TRANSFERASE U17 (AtGSTU17; At1g10370) participates in light signaling and might modulate various aspects of development by affecting glutathione (GSH) pools via a coordinated regulation with phytochrome A. Here, we provide further evidence to support a negative role of AtGSTU17 in drought and salt stress tolerance. When AtGSTU17 was mutated, plants were more tolerant to drought and salt stresses compared with wild-type plants. In addition, atgstu17 accumulated higher levels of GSH and abscisic acid (ABA) and exhibited hyposensitivity to ABA during seed germination, smaller stomatal apertures, a lower transpiration rate, better development of primary and lateral root systems, and longer vegetative growth. To explore how atgstu17 accumulated higher ABA content, we grew wild-type plants in the solution containing GSH and found that they accumulated ABA to a higher extent than plants grown in the absence of GSH, and they also exhibited the atgstu17 phenotypes. Wild-type plants treated with GSH also demonstrated more tolerance to drought and salt stresses. Furthermore, the effect of GSH on root patterning and drought tolerance was confirmed by growing the atgstu17 in solution containing l-buthionine-(S,R)-sulfoximine, a specific inhibitor of GSH biosynthesis. In conclusion, the atgstu17 phenotype can be explained by the combined effect of GSH and ABA. We propose a role of AtGSTU17 in adaptive responses to drought and salt stresses by functioning as a negative component of stress-mediated signal transduction pathways.
Exploring consensus in 21st century projections of climatically suitable areas for African vertebrates
Authors: Garcia Raquel A. , Burgess Neil D. , Cabeza Mar , Rahbek Carsten , Araújo Miguel B.
Published: November 2011

Africa is predicted to be highly vulnerable to 21st century climatic changes. Assessing the impacts of these changes on Africa's biodiversity is, however, plagued by uncertainties, and markedly different results can be obtained from alternative bioclimatic envelope models or future climate projections. Using an ensemble forecasting framework, we examine projections of future shifts in climatic suitability, and their methodological uncertainties, for over 2500 species of mammals, birds, amphibians and snakes in sub‐Saharan Africa. To summarize a priori the variability in the ensemble of 17 general circulation models, we introduce a consensus methodology that combines co‐varying models. Thus, we quantify and map the relative contribution to uncertainty of seven bioclimatic envelope models, three multi‐model climate projections and three emissions scenarios, and explore the resulting variability in species turnover estimates. We show that bioclimatic envelope models contribute most to variability, particularly in projected novel climatic conditions over Sahelian and southern Saharan Africa. To summarize agreements among projections from the bioclimatic envelope models we compare five consensus methodologies, which generally increase or retain projection accuracy and provide consistent estimates of species turnover. Variability from emissions scenarios increases towards late‐century and affects southern regions of high species turnover centred in arid Namibia. Twofold differences in median species turnover across the study area emerge among alternative climate projections and emissions scenarios. Our ensemble of projections underscores the potential bias when using a single algorithm or climate projection for Africa, and provides a cautious first approximation of the potential exposure of sub‐Saharan African vertebrates to climatic changes. The future use and further development of bioclimatic envelope modelling will hinge on the interpretation of results in the light of methodological as well as biological uncertainties. Here, we provide a framework to address methodological uncertainties and contextualize results.
Recent climate changes interact with stand structure and management to determine changes in tree carbon stocks in Spanish forests
Authors: Vayreda Jordi , Martinez‐Vilalta Jordi , Gracia Marc , Retana Javier
Published: November 2011

Most temperate forests are accumulating carbon (C) and may continue to do so in the near future. However, the situation may be different in water‐limited ecosystems, where the potentially positive effects of C and N fertilization and rising temperatures interact with water availability. In this study, we use the extensive network of plots of two consecutive Spanish national forest inventories to identify the factors that determine the spatial variation of the C stock change, growth, and mortality rate of forests in Peninsular Spain (below‐ and aboveground). We fitted general linear models to assess the response of C stock change and its components to the spatial variability of climate (in terms of water availability), forest structure (tree density and C stock), previous forest management, and the recent warming trend. Our results show that undisturbed forests in Peninsular Spain are accumulating C at a rate of ~1.4 Mg C ha−1 yr−1, and that forest structural variables are the main determinants of forest growth and C stock change. Water availability was positively related to growth and C accumulation. On the other hand, recent warming has reduced growth rate and C accumulation, especially in wet areas. Spatial variation in mortality (in terms of C loss) was mostly driven by differences in growth rate across plots, and was consistent with ‘natural’, self‐thinning dynamics related to the recent abandonment of forest management over large areas of Spain, with the consequent increase in tree density and competition. Interestingly, the negative effect of warming on forest C accumulation disappears if only managed stands are considered, emphasizing the potential of forest management to mitigate the effects of climate change. However, the effect of forest management was weak and, in some cases, not significant, implying the need of further research on its impact.
Validation of a Korean version of the Child Oral Health Impact Profile (COHIP) among 8‐ to 15‐year‐old school children
Authors: AHN YONG‐SOON , KIM HAE‐YOUNG , HONG SU‐MIN , PATTON LAUREN L. , KIM JI‐HWAN , NOH HIE‐JIN
Published: November 2011

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2012; 22: 292–301

Objectives.  The purpose of this study was to assess reliability, discriminant validity, and convergent validity of the Oral Health Impact Profile (COHIP) Korean version in a representative community sample of 8‐ to 15‐year‐old Korean children.

Methods.  A Korean version of COHIP was developed according to the standard procedure of cross‐cultural adaptation of self‐reported instruments. A representative community sample of 2236 schoolchildren was selected by cluster sampling method.

Results.  Mean age of the participants was 11.8  years. Mean and median of the overall COHIP score were 103.3 (SD 13.3) and 106, respectively. Internal reliability and retest reliability were excellent with Chronbach’s alpha 0.88 and intraclass correlation coefficient 0.88. Face validity was confirmed with 98% of participants reporting the COHIP questionnaire was easy to answer. Nonclinical factors such as self‐rated oral health or satisfaction with oral health were significantly related with overall COHIP score and five subscale scores (P <  0.001) in a consistent manner. Children with carious permanent teeth and with orthodontic treatment need had highly significantly lower overall COHIP score (P < 0.01).

Conclusion.  The Korean version of the COHIP was successfully developed. The internal reliability, retest reliability, face validity, discriminant validity, and convergent validity of the COHIP Korean version were confirmed.
Microdontia and hypodontia of premolars and permanent molars in childhood cancer survivors after chemotherapy
Authors: PEDERSEN LISBETH BØNLØKKE , CLAUSEN NIELS , SCHRØDER HENRIK , SCHMIDT MALENE , POULSEN SVEN
Published: November 2011

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2012; 22: 239–243

Background.  Adverse long‐term general and dental health effects of cancer and cancer therapy during childhood have been reported.

Aim.  To examine the association between chemotherapy before the age of 8 years and (1): microdontia; (2): hypodontia of premolars and permanent molars.

Material and methods.  In The Danish Registry of Childhood Cancer (DBCR), we identified 203 children who met the following inclusion criteria: (1) age below 8 years at the start of treatment; (2) age between 12 to 18 years upon dental examination; (3) had received chemotherapy The exclusion criterion was radiotherapy to the head and neck. A total of 150 children fulfilled the inclusion criteria. As controls, a random sample of 193 age‐matched unexposed children was included.

Results.  Microdontia was found in a total of 88 teeth in 29 (19.3%) of the 150 children who had been exposed to chemotherapy, while none of the controls had microdontia of premolars or permanent molars (difference: 19.3%; 95% CL: 13.5%; 26.4%). The earlier the exposure, the more frequent was microdontia. We found a total of 27 missing premolars and permanent molars in 14 (9.3%) of the exposed children and a total of 18 missing premolars and permanent molars in 8 (4.1%) of the controls (difference: 5.2%; 95% CL: −0.1%; 11.3%).

Conclusion.  The present study confirms findings from previous studies that chemotherapy, especially in very young children, causes microdontia and hypodontia of premolars and permanent molars.
The indirect consequences of a mutualism: comparing positive and negative components of the net interaction between honeydew‐tending ants and host plants
Authors: Grinath Joshua B. , Inouye Brian D. , Underwood Nora , Billick Ian
Published: November 2011

1. In ecological webs, net indirect interactions between species are composed of interactions that vary in sign and magnitude. Most studies have focused on negative component interactions (e.g. predation, herbivory) without considering the relative importance of positive interactions (e.g. mutualism, facilitation) for determining net indirect effects.

2. In plant/arthropod communities, ants have multiple top‐down effects via mutualisms with honeydew‐producing herbivores and harassment of and predation on other herbivores; these ant effects provide opportunities for testing the relative importance of positive and negative interspecific interactions. We manipulated the presence of ants, honeydew‐producing membracids and leaf‐chewing beetles on perennial host plants in field experiments in Colorado to quantify the relative strength of these different types of interactions and their impact on the ant’s net indirect effect on plants.

3. In 2007, we demonstrated that ants simultaneously had a positive effect on membracids and a negative effect on beetles, resulting in less beetle damage on plants hosting the mutualism.

4. In 2008, we used structural equation modelling to describe interaction strengths through the entire insect herbivore community on plants with and without ants. The ant’s mutualism with membracids was the sole strong interaction contributing to the net indirect effect of ants on plants. Predation, herbivory and facilitation were weak, and the net effect of ants reduced plant reproduction. This net indirect effect was also partially because of behavioural changes of herbivores in the presence of ants. An additional membracid manipulation showed that the membracid’s effect on ant activity was largely responsible for the ant’s net effect on plants; ant workers were nearly ten times as abundant on plants with mutualists, and effects on other herbivores were similar to those in the ant manipulation experiment.

5. These results demonstrate that mutualisms can be strong relative to negative direct interspecific interactions and that positive interactions deserve attention as important components of ecological webs.
An investigation of nursing students' experiences in an Iranian psychiatric unit
Authors: KARIMOLLAHI M.
Published: November 2011

Accessible summary

This study investigated the clinical experiences of nursing students in a psychiatric unit in an Iranian hospital.

Data from in‐depth interviews were analysed in order to reveal common themes in the experiences of these students.

The results present distinctive insights on contextualizing, developing and implementing clinical education in Iran, especially in psychiatric units. The exploration and description of students' experiences will help nurse educators to plan the clinical learning opportunities such that they are less stressful, thus ensuring that nursing students are equipped to act as therapeutic professionals.

This qualitative study aimed to investigate and explain clinical experiences of nursing students in a psychiatric unit in an Iranian hospital. The researcher performed a Heideggerian hermeneutic phenomenological study by conducting in‐depth interviews of 13 participants. An analysis based on Diekelmann's method helped to interpret the data and uncover common themes. The following four correlated themes were obtained: anxiety, maturation, dissatisfaction and enthusiasm. These results present distinctive insights on contextualizing, developing and implementing clinical education in Iran, especially in psychiatric units. The exploration and description of students' experiences will help nurse educators to plan the clinical learning opportunities such that they are less stressful, thus ensuring that nursing students are equipped to act as therapeutic professionals.
Pharmacokinetic assessment of ketanserin in the horse
Authors: ALJUFFALI I. A. , BRAINARD B. M. , MOORE J. N. , KWON S. , ALLEN D. , ROBERTSON T. P. , ARNOLD R. D.
Published: November 2011

Aljuffali, I. A., Brainard, B. M., Moore, J. N., Kwon, S., Allen, D., Robertson, T. P., Arnold, R. D. Pharmacokinetic assessment of ketanserin in the horse.J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap. 35, 472–477.

The purpose of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetics (PK) of the 5‐HT2Areceptor antagonist ketanserin in healthy adult horses, and to develop a computational model that could be used to optimize dosing. Plasma concentrations of ketanserin were determined using liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry after single and multiple intravenous administration in the horse. A two‐compartment linear pharmacokinetic model described the plasma concentration–time profile of ketanserin after single and multiple doses in healthy horses; the terminal half‐life was 11.5 h; steady‐state volume of distribution was 10.5 L/kg; AUC was 115 ng·h/mL; and clearance was 0.87 L/h/kg. Model simulations followed by the examination in three healthy horses suggest 0.3 mg/kg q.8 h exhibited linear PK and produced consistent systemic blood concentrations of ketanserin above 3 ng/mL.
Examining hepatitis c virus testing practices in primary care clinics
Authors: Almario C. V. , Vega M. , Trooskin S. B. , Navarro V. J.
Published: November 2011

Summary.  Prior studies found that hepatitis C virus (HCV) risk assessment and testing in primary care clinics were suboptimal. We aimed to determine the actual HCV testing rate among patients with HCV risk factors and to identify variables predictive of testing. In order to do so, we performed a prospective cohort study among patients seen in four urban primary care clinics. At the initial visit, patients were given a questionnaire that listed HCV risk factors and they were instructed to check ‘yes’ or ‘no’ if they did or did not have a risk factor, respectively. Patients then handed this questionnaire to their physician during their initial visit. Among those who acknowledged having a HCV risk factor via the questionnaire, we determined the subsequent HCV testing rate and calculated adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) to identify variables predictive of testing. Of the 578 individuals who acknowledged having a HCV risk factor via the questionnaire, only 8% (46/578) were tested for HCV within 2 months of their initial visit. Among those tested, 11% (5/46) had a positive HCV antibody test result. The only variable predictive of HCV testing after adjusting for confounders was having a specific HCV risk factor identified and documented in the chart by physicians [16% (26/159) vs 5% (20/419); aOR 4.5, 95% CI 2.1–9.5]. In summary, 92% of patients with a HCV risk factor were not tested for HCV in the primary care setting, and efforts to improve such rates are clearly warranted.
Feeding frequency and survival of Anopheles gambiae in a rice‐growing area in Ghana
Authors: CHARLWOOD J. D. , TOMÁS E. V. , EGYIR‐YAWSON A. , KAMPANGO A. A. , PITTS R. J.
Published: November 2011

Mortality rates, determined by dissection, of predominantly M form female Anopheles gambiae (Diptera: Culicidae) were estimated. Mosquitoes were collected in tent traps and light traps in an irrigation project village in Ghana in June and July 2010, when much of the area was flooded. Both M and S form larvae were collected from rice fields (74 of 80 specimens were M form). Adults were collected in equal proportions from the two traps (90 of 107 specimens from the light trap and 106 of 116 specimens from the tent trap were M form). During the study, collection numbers rose from 105 to 972 per night. A total of 1787 of the 15 431 An. gambiae collected were dissected. Of these, 953 (53%) were found to have taken their first bloodmeal, either as virgins or following mating. The age profiles of mosquitoes collected alive and dead, respectively, were similar. Eighteen of 2933 (0.61 ± 0.49%) specimens were found to be positive for sporozoites in an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Lagged cross correlations among the different age groups implied that the mosquitoes fed on days 2 and 4 following emergence prior to oviposition and every 2.65 ± 0.17 days thereafter. The best model to describe the observed population patterns implied a daily mortality of 84%. The results are discussed in relation to possible mosquito control measures for the village.
Effects of bait age, larval chemical cues and nutrient depletion on colonization by forensically important calliphorid and sarcophagid flies
Authors: GEORGE K. A. , ARCHER M. S. , TOOP T.
Published: November 2011

Species colonization patterns on corpses and the frequency of carrion fly oviposition and larviposition are affected by decomposition stage and previous maggot colonization. This study investigated these effects on meat bait colonization by Victorian Diptera of forensic importance. Bait treatments were: ‘aged’ (aged for 4 days at 22 °C, allowing some decomposition); ‘nutrient‐depleted’ [aged for 4 days at 22 °C with feeding Calliphora vicina (Robineau‐Desvoidy) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) larvae]; ‘extract’ (fresh bait mixed with liquid formed by feeding C. vicina larvae), and ‘fresh’ (untreated control bait). Statistical analysis (α = 0.05) revealed that colonization frequency differed significantly among treatments (Welch's F3,18.83 = 4.66, P < 0.05). Post hoc tests showed that fresh and extract baits were colonized extensively throughout the experiment with no significant difference, whereas the colonization of nutrient‐depleted baits was significantly lower. This suggests that larval digestive enzymes, larval excreta and cuticular hydrocarbons have less effect on colonizing Diptera than the nutritional content of meat. The colonization of aged baits did not differ significantly from that of fresh, extract or nutrient‐depleted baits. A further experiment testing ‘very aged’ (aged for 8 days at 28 °C), ‘larvae‐added’ (fresh bait with C. vicina larvae added before placement) and ‘fresh’ (untreated control) baits revealed that very aged baits were colonized significantly less frequently than either fresh or larvae‐added baits (Welch's F2, 6.17 = 17.40, P < 0.05).
High diversity in populations of the introduced plant pathogen, Cryphonectria parasitica, due to encounters between genetically divergent genotypes
Authors: JEŽIĆ MARIN , KRSTIN LJILJANA , RIGLING DANIEL , ĆURKOVIĆ‐PERICA MIRNA
Published: November 2011

The ascomycete fungus Cryphonectria parasitica is an aggressive introduced pathogen of sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.). It has spread throughout the chestnut‐growing areas of Europe, with higher diversity in the regions close to its first introduction and lower diversity in its expanding ranges in Europe. To reconstruct the invasion events that could explain the high diversity of C. parasitica in Croatia and Slovenia, 180 samples were genotyped using 11 sequence‐characterized amplified region markers. Eight of 11 loci were found to be polymorphic, and a total of 66 different haplotypes were identified. Bayesian clustering indicated the existence of two clusters, which suggests two separate introductions of C. parasitica in these regions. The first cluster is dominant in western parts of Croatia and Slovenia and the second in eastern and northern regions. The data analysis indicates that northern Italy was the first source of infection, with the subsequent introduction from south‐eastern Europe, which contributed significantly to the diversity of the C. parasitica populations tested. Most haplotypes were probably derived through sexual recombination between a few divergent haplotypes, which suggests that multiple introductions and sexual reproduction are important for the formation of genetically diverse C. parasitica populations.
Molecular pathology in adult high‐grade gliomas: from molecular diagnostics to target therapies
Authors: Masui K. , Cloughesy T. F. , Mischel P. S.
Published: November 2011

K. Masui, T. F. Cloughesy and P. S. Mischel (2012) Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology38, 271–291

Molecular pathology in adult high‐grade gliomas: from molecular diagnostics to target therapies

The classification of malignant gliomas is moving from a morphology‐based guide to a system built on molecular criteria. The development of a genomic landscape for gliomas and a better understanding of its functional consequences have led to the development of internally consistent molecular classifiers. However, development of a biologically insightful classification to guide therapy is still a work in progress. Response to targeted treatments is based not only on the presence of drugable targets, but rather on the molecular circuitry of the cells. Further, tumours are heterogeneous and change and adapt in response to drugs. Therefore, the challenge of developing molecular classifiers that provide meaningful ways to stratify patients for therapy remains a major challenge for the field. In this review, we examine the potential role of MGMT methylation, IDH1/2 mutations, 1p/19q deletions, aberrant epidermal growth factor receptor and PI3K pathways, abnormal p53/Rb pathways, cancer stem‐cell markers and microRNAs as prognostic and predictive molecular markers in the setting of adult high‐grade gliomas and we outline the clinically relevant subtypes of glioblastoma with genomic, transcriptomic and proteomic integrated analyses. Furthermore, we describe how these advances, especially in epidermal growth factor receptor/PI3K/mTOR signalling pathway, affect our approaches towards targeted therapy, raising new challenges and identifying new leads.
Tick saliva suppresses IFN signalling in dendritic cells upon Borrelia afzelii infection
Authors: LIESKOVSKÁ J. , KOPECKÝ J.
Published: November 2011

Type I interferons (IFN‐α and IFN‐β) are crucial determinants of the host immune response and tick saliva modulates this response, thus facilitating the transmission of tickborne pathogens. The current study therefore examines the effect of Ixodes ricinus tick saliva on IFN‐β signalling in murine dendritic cells using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and Borrelia afzelii spirochaetes as inducers. Activated dendritic cells secret IFN that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 1 (STAT‐1). Our results show that Borrelia‐induced activation of STAT‐1 was suppressed by tick saliva. As the amount of secreted IFN‐β was not influenced by tick saliva, the results indicated that saliva affected the interferon pathway at the IFN receptor or downstream of it. By using recombinant IFN‐β, we show that tick saliva attenuates IFN‐triggered STAT‐1 activation. Tick saliva also inhibited LPS‐induced IFN‐β production suggesting that saliva interferes with the activation of the pathway that mediates IFN‐β induction. Our data indicate that I. ricinus tick saliva may modulate the host immune response by attenuating the initial signal transduction pathway of type I IFN.
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia is rare in renal transplant recipients receiving only one month of prophylaxis
Authors: Anand S. , Samaniego M. , Kaul D.R.
Published: November 2011

Prophylaxis against Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) is recommended for at least 4–12 months after solid organ transplant. In our center, renal transplant recipients receive only 1 month of post‐transplant trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole, which also may provide limited protection against Nocardia. We identified only 4 PCP cases and 4 Nocardia cases in 1352 patients receiving renal and renal‐pancreas transplant from 2003 to 2009 at the University of Michigan Health System. Two PCP cases were identified <1 year after transplant, and 2 PCP cases were identified >1 year after transplant (gross attack rate 4/1352, 0.3%). Two Nocardia cases were identified <1 year after transplant, and 2 cases were identified >1 year after transplant. All identified cases received induction therapy (7 of 8 with anti‐thymocyte globulin), whereas about one‐half of all renal transplant patients received induction therapy at our institution. No patient was treated for rejection within 6 months of PCP; 2 of 4 patients with PCP had recent cytomegalovirus infection. All patients with PCP and 3 of 4 patients with Nocardia survived. The benefits of prolonged PCP prophylaxis should be weighed against the adverse events associated with prolonged use of antimicrobials.
Diagnostic yield of dual‐phase computed tomography enterography in patients with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding and a non‐diagnostic capsule endoscopy
Authors: Agrawal Jaya R , Travis Anne C , Mortele Koenraad J , Silverman Stuart G , Maurer Rie , Reddy Sarathchandra I , Saltzman John R
Published: November 2011

Background and Aim:  In patients with obscure gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, capsule endoscopy is widely used to determine the source of bleeding. However, there is currently no consensus on how to further evaluate patients with obscure GI bleeding with a non‐diagnostic capsule endoscopy examination. This study aims to determine the diagnostic yield of dual‐phase computed tomographic enterography (CTE) in patients with obscure GI bleeding and a non‐diagnostic capsule endoscopy.

Methods:  Patients with obscure GI bleeding who were referred for capsule endoscopy were prospectively enrolled. Obscure GI bleeding was defined as overt if there was obvious GI bleeding; otherwise it was defined as occult. Patients with a non‐diagnostic capsule endoscopy and no contraindications underwent a CTE.

Results:  Capsule endoscopy was performed in 52 patients; 26 patients (50%) had occult GI bleeding and 26 patients (50%) had overt GI bleeding. CTE was then performed in 25 of the 48 patients without a definitive source of bleeding seen on capsule endoscopy. The diagnostic yield of CTE was 0% (0/11) in patients with occult bleeding versus 50% (7/14) in patients with overt bleeding (P < 0.01). Using clinical follow up as the gold standard, for the 25 patients with a non‐diagnostic capsule, CTE had a sensitivity of 33% (95% confidence interval 0.15, 0.56) and a specificity of 75% (95% confidence interval 0.22, 0.99).

Conclusions:  In patients with a non‐diagnostic capsule endoscopy examination, CTE is useful for detecting a source of GI bleeding in patients with overt, but not occult, obscure GI bleeding.
Evaluation of the adverse effect of premature discontinuation of pegylated interferon α‐2b and ribavirin treatment for chronic hepatitis C virus infection: Results from Kyushu University Liver Disease Study
Authors: Ogawa Eiichi , Furusyo Norihiro , Kajiwara Eiji , Takahashi Kazuhiro , Nomura Hideyuki , Tanabe Yuichi , Satoh Takeaki , Maruyama Toshihiro , Nakamuta Makoto , Kotoh Kazuhiro , Azuma Koichi , Dohmen Kazufumi , Shimoda Shinji , Hayashi Jun ,   The Kyushu University Liver Disease Study [KULDS] Group
Published: November 2011

Background and Aims:  Pegylated interferon (PEG‐IFN) α‐2b and ribavirin (RBV) treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with a substantially elevated risk of discontinuation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the reason for premature discontinuation during PEG‐IFN α‐2b and RBV treatment due to adverse effects in patients with chronic HCV infection.

Methods:  A total of 2871 Japanese patients who had chronic HCV infection treated with PEG‐IFN α‐2b and RBV were screened. We prospectively investigated the reasons for premature discontinuation of treatment classified by sex and age, and analyzed the timing of discontinuation.

Results:  Of the 2871 patients, 250 (8.7%) discontinued treatment because of adverse effects. The main reasons for premature discontinuation were neurovegetative symptoms (n = 77, 30.8%), depression‐related syndrome (n = 46, 18.4%), hematologic effects (n = 41, 16.4%) and dermatologic effects (n = 27, 10.8%). The rate of discontinuation of treatment for patients aged ≥ 65 years was significantly higher than for patients aged < 65 years, for both men (P < 0.0001) and women (P = 0.0121). Moreover, the frequency of discontinuation due to neurovegetative symptoms, depression‐related syndrome, and hematologic effects for men aged ≥ 65 years was significantly higher than for those aged < 65 years (P = 0.0001, P = 0.0016, and P = 0.0170, respectively), but not for women.

Conclusion:  Premature discontinuation due to the adverse effects of PEG‐IFN α‐2b and RBV treatment by patients with chronic HCV infection is mainly due to neuropsychiatric symptoms and is more common for older than for younger patients.
Tumor local chemohyperthermia using docetaxel‐embedded magnetoliposomes: Interaction of chemotherapy and hyperthermia
Authors: Yoshida Motohira , Sato Mitsunori , Yamamoto Yuji , Maehara Tsunehiro , Naohara Takashi , Aono Hiromichi , Sugishita Hiroki , Sato Koichi , Watanabe Yuji
Published: November 2011

Background and Aim:  We have studied and reported the usefulness of tumor local chemohyperthermia at a low‐grade temperature below 43°C with docetaxel‐embedded magnetoliposome (DML) and an applied alternating current magnetic field. However, the mechanisms of this treatment and the dynamics of the injected docetaxel were not investigated in our previous study. Thus, we investigated the interaction of chemotherapy and hyperthermia in the treated tumor.

Methods:  Human MKN45 gastric cancer cells were implanted in the hind limbs of Balb‐c/nu/nu mice. DML, magnetite‐loaded liposome, and docetaxel were injected into the tumors with or without being exposed to an alternating current magnetic field. Docetaxel and tumor necrosis factor‐α concentrations, the cell cycle, and cell death rates in the tumor were examined.

Results:  Docetaxel concentrations were significantly higher in the DML‐injected group than in the docetaxel‐injected group 3 days after injection. A G2/M peak was observed 1 day after treatment in the DML‐injected and exposed group and the docetaxel‐injected group, while it was observed 3 days after treatment in the DML‐injected without heating group and the magnetite‐loaded liposome group. The tumor cell death rate gradually increased in the DML‐injected group, with or without being exposed, while it gradually decreased after its peak in other groups. The tumor necrosis factor‐α concentration in the tumor treated with DML with heating remained at a high level on the 7th day after treatment, while it decreased after its peak in other groups.

Conclusion:  The antitumor effect of this treatment derives from a combination of hyperthermia and chemotherapy locally in the tumor.
Cyclooxygenase‐2 and Akt mediate multiple growth‐factor‐induced epithelial‐mesenchymal transition in human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ogunwobi Olorunseun O , Wang Ton , Zhang Lucy , Liu Chen
Published: November 2011

Background and Aim:  Cancer invasion and metastasis are characterized by epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) causes metastasis and significant mortality. Elucidating factors promoting EMT in HCC are necessary to develop effective therapeutic strategies.

Methods:  The LH86 cell line was developed in our laboratory from well‐differentiated HCC without associated hepatitis or cirrhosis and used as a model to study EMT in HCC. Effects of transforming growth factor β‐1, epidermal growth factor, hepatocyte growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were examined using morphology, molecular markers, effects on migration and tumorigenicity. The involvement of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) and Akt were examined.

Results:  LH86 cells display epithelial morphology. Transforming‐growth‐factor‐β‐1‐, epidermal‐growth‐factor‐, hepatocyte‐growth‐factor‐ and basic‐fibroblast‐growth‐factor‐induced mesenchymal changes in them were associated with loss of E‐cadherin, albumin, α‐1 anti‐trypsin expression and increased expression of vimentin, collagen I and fibronectin. There was associated increased migration, tumorigenicity and increased expression of COX‐2, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), Akt and phosphorylated Akt. Inhibition of COX‐2 and Akt pathways led to inhibition of characteristics of EMT.

Conclusions:  Multiple growth factors induce EMT in HCC. COX‐2 and Akt may mediate EMT‐associated development and progression of HCC and molecular targeting of COX‐2 and Akt may be an effective therapeutic or chemopreventive strategy in advanced and metastatic HCC.
Screening of de novo tumors after liver transplantation
Authors: Herrero J Ignacio
Published: November 2011

De novo malignancies are frequent complications after liver transplantation. They are one of the leading causes of late death. Some authors have reported promising results following implementation of extensive cancer surveillance programs. Screening protocols might benefit patients by providing a diagnosis at an earlier stage when tumors may be cured. These protocols should be based on the specific risk factors of every patient. Unfortunately, the scientific evidence supporting screening protocols is still very weak both in the general population and in the transplant patients. On this basis, there is not enough evidence to recommend routine screening for all liver transplant recipients, apart from the recommendations accepted for the general population. Multicenter studies in selected groups of patients at high risk for malignancy may be the only way of defining the potential benefit of screening programs post‐transplantation.