bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Turbulent mixing and passive scalar transport in shallow flows
Authors: Kim Dae-Hong , Lynett Patrick J.
Published: January 2011

A depth-integrated model including subgrid scale mixing effects for turbulent transport by long waves and currents is presented. A fully nonlinear, depth-integrated set of equations for weakly dispersive and rotational flow is derived by the long wave perturbation approach. The same approach is applied to derive a depth-integrated scalar transport model which can accommodate small vertical variation of a weakly unsteady scalar. The proposed equations are solved by a fourth-order accurate finite volume method. The depth-integrated flow and transport models are applied to typical problems which have different mixing mechanisms. From the simulations, several important conclusions are obtained. (i) From simulation of a mixing layer generated by internal transverse shear, it is revealed that the dispersive stress implemented with a stochastic backscatter model (BSM) can play an important role for energy transfer in a shallow mixing layer. (ii) From a comparison of the characteristic width of a scalar plume in shallow and uniform flow, the proposed depth-integrated transport model coupled with the depth-integrated flow model can predict the passive scalar transport physically—that is, based on the turbulent intensity—without relying on a coarse empirical constant. (iii) From the same simulation, the inherent limitation of the two-dimensional horizontal model to capture vertical structure is recognized in near field. (iv) If the main mechanism of flow instability originates from relatively large-scale bottom topography features, then the effects of the dispersive stresses (i.e., BSM) are less important.
Simple models of turbulent flows
Authors: Pope Stephen B.
Published: January 2011

Stochastic Lagrangian models provide a simple and direct way to model turbulent flows and the processes that occur within them. This paper provides an introduction to this approach, aimed at the nonspecialist, and providing some historical perspective. Basic models for the Lagrangian velocity (i.e., the Langevin equation) and composition are described and applied to the simple but revealing case of dispersion from a line source in grid turbulence. With simple extensions, these models are applied to inhomogeneous turbulent reactive flows, where they form the core of probability density function (PDF) methods. The use of PDF methods is illustrated for the case of a lifted turbulent jet flame. Lagrangian time series are now accessible both from experiments and from direct numerical simulations, and this information is used to scrutinize and improve stochastic Lagrangian models. In particular, we describe refinements to account for the observed strong Reynolds-number effects including intermittency. It is emphasized that all models of turbulence are necessarily approximate and incomplete, and that simple models are valuable in many applications in spite of their limitations.
Transition of dominant instability mechanism depending on negative gate bias under illumination in amorphous In-Ga-Zn-O thin film transistor
Authors: Oh Himchan , Yoon Sung-Min , Ryu Min Ki , Hwang Chi-Sun , Yang Shinhyuk , Park Sang-Hee Ko
Published: January 2011

The gate bias dependence on the negative bias instability under illumination was examined. As the gate bias got more negative, dominant mechanism was changed from simple charge trapping to that accompanied by generation of subgap states. Degree of threshold voltage shift was not monotonously dependent on the magnitude of negative gate bias. It is strongly related with the corresponding instability modes for different gate bias regimes. The transition of instability mechanism depends on how much the gate bias stabilizes ionized oxygen vacancy states.
Trophic importance of a temperate intertidal wetland to resident and itinerant taxa: evidence from multiple stable isotope analyses
Authors: Mazumder Debashish , Saintilan Neil , Williams Robert J. , Szymczak Ron
Published: January 2011

Juveniles of commercially important fish species congregate in shallow vegetated estuarine habitats during high tides. Considerable debate has centred on whether the significance of these habitats lies in their provision of greater feeding opportunities, or shelter from predation afforded by greater structural complexity. We tested the hypothesis that an inundated mangrove and saltmarsh wetland provided feeding opportunities for itinerant species, and that the contribution of wetland primary producers and grazing herbivores could be identified in their diet, using stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen. Potential sources of dietary carbon included mangrove, saltmarsh, seagrass, seagrass epiphytic material and benthic organic material. Saltmarsh plants (mostly Sporobolus virginicus and Juncus kraussii) and fine benthic organic material appeared to be the primary sources of dietary carbon for the resident grazing herbivores in the wetlands, based on IsoSource mixing models. During high tide, species of itinerant fish enter the mangrove and, when inundated, the saltmarsh, and feed primarily on crab larvae and copepods. Fine benthic organic matter, seagrass epiphyte, and C3 and C4 plant materials also supplement the diet of some fish. The crab larvae therefore provide a significant source of nutrition and an important link between the intertidal wetlands and the adjacent estuarine ecosystem. The carnivorous fish Acanthopagrus australis, at the highest trophic level, hunted within or adjacent to the mangrove–saltmarsh wetland and fed on several lower-order consumers within the wetland. The present study highlights the significance of mangrove and saltmarsh wetlands as a feeding habitat for resident grazers and itinerant nekton.
Salinity tolerances of endemic freshwater fishes of south-western Australia: implications for conservation in a biodiversity hotspot
Authors: Beatty Stephen J. , Morgan David L. , Rashnavadi Mahmoud , Lymbery Alan J.
Published: January 2011

Secondary salinisation represents an important threat to terrestrial and aquatic habitats throughout the world. In south-western Australia, widespread salinisation of waterways has caused large range reductions in the highly endemic freshwater fish fauna. We hypothesised that differences in the distributions of three fish species within the salinised Blackwood River would be related to their salinity tolerances. Galaxias occidentalis was widespread throughout the catchment, whereas Nannoperca vittata was restricted to the main channel and freshwater tributaries of the lower catchment, and Nannatherina balstoni was restricted to those tributaries and a perennial section of the main channel that received a considerable amount of fresh groundwater. Acute salinity tolerances (Effect Concentrations) of G. occidentalis and N. vittata were similar (EC50 ∼14.6 g L–1), but significantly greater than that of N. balstoni (EC50 ∼8.2 g L–1). The greater geographical range of G. occidentalis, compared with N. vittata, may be a consequence of the dispersal capability of the former species, and the lower salinity tolerance of N. balstoni contributes to its highly restricted range. The findings demonstrate that secondary salinisation has greatly impacted these freshwater fishes, and fresh groundwater refuges, predicted to decrease due to reduced rainfall, appear crucial in maintaining remnant populations.
Partitioning of food resources by four abundant, co-occurring elasmobranch species: relationships between diet and both body size and season
Authors: Sommerville E. , Platell M. E. , White W. T. , Jones A. A. , Potter I. C.
Published: January 2011

The present study has tested statistically the hypothesis that the diets of four abundant and co-occurring elasmobranch species differ and change with body size and season and has determined the extent of any differences, to ascertain their potential for reducing competition for food resources. Non-metric multivariate analyses of volumetric contributions of dietary categories to stomach contents demonstrated that the dietary compositions of the rays Myliobatis australis and Aptychotrema vincentiana and the sharks Heterodontus portusjacksoni and Squatina australis in south-western Australian waters differed. M. australis fed predominantly on benthic invertebrates, whereas A. vincentiana consumed large volumes of teleosts. The durophagous H. portusjacksoni ingested a wide variety of prey, including gastropods, cephalopods, bivalves, echinoderms and teleosts, whereas S. australis ingested mainly teleosts and cephalopods. The extent and pattern of change in the diet with increasing body size varied among species. For example, the diet of H. portusjacksoni changed abruptly to larger, harder-bodied prey at ∼400-mm total length, whereas that of S. australis underwent small, gradual changes with increasing body size. The diets of each species changed seasonally. Inter- and intraspecific variations in dietary composition reduce the potential for competition between and within these abundant elasmobranch species in south-western Australian waters.
Determinants of block cohesiveness and attack efficacy in high‐level women's volleyball
Authors: Afonso José , Mesquita Isabel
Published: January 2011

Analysing the performance of a team is important for optimizing the training process, thus improving the quality of practice. The interactions between the two opposing teams generate specific dynamical interactions, leading to the emergence of unique game patterns, which are of interest in such analyses. Hence, the purpose of the present study is to analyse probabilistic relationships that might predict certain outcomes relating to block cohesiveness and attack efficacy in elite‐level women's volleyball. Six volleyball matches from the 2006 FIVB Women's World Championships were analysed, producing a total of 650 sequences. A multinomial logistic regression was applied, with the level of significance determined at α = 0.05. The results clearly suggest that one of the most important cues for the blockers to analyse is the availability of the opponent's middle‐attacker for quick attacks. This emphasizes the notion of availability, a functional concept of the greatest importance. Regarding anticipation strategies from the block, they are justifiable when the opponent pulls a quick one‐foot attack behind the setter, since it diminishes the probability of an attack point or positive attack. In conclusion, it is the effective availability of a player to execute a certain action, and the type of that availability, that will induce different types of response strategies, whether wait and react, or a multitude of specific anticipation movements. Research should take this into consideration, exploring new and particular forms of availability and of anticipation movements, providing a higher in‐depth view of game dynamics.
Sugar and metabolic regulation of genes for sucrose metabolism: potential influence of maize sucrose synthase and soluble invertase responses on carbon partitioning and sugar sensing1
Authors: Koch Karen E. , Wu Yong , Xu Jian
Published: January 2011

Sugar responsiveness of genes for both paths of sucrose metabolism could provide a mechanism not only for transcriptional regulation of the first step in the use of imported carbon, but also for altering signals to the sugar-sensing system. This hypothesis was examined by comparison of (1) sugar regulation among maize genes for sucrose synthase and invertase, (2) their contrasting patterns of tissue expression, and (3) their influence on production of effectors for other sugar-responsive genes. Cloning and characterization of the Ivr1 and Ivr2 invertase genes of maize indicated that these genes belong to distinct subfamilies of the maize soluble invertase gene family. In addition, maize invertases can be grouped with the sucrose synthases (Sh1 and Sus1) on the basis of shared patterns of differential sugar-responsiveness and tissue-specific expression. Extension of this comparison to include genes for sucrose metabolism from other species revealed a more widespread association between starvation-tolerant expression and restricted patterns of tissue distribution. Consideration of current models for plant sugar-sensing systems and transport pathways suggested that the site and mechanism of sucrose cleavage in the cell could affect the magnitude and type of signal generated.
The mechanism of assimilate partitioning and carbohydrate compartmentation in fruit in relation to the quality and yield of tomato
Authors: Ho L.C.
Published: January 2011

The limitation of tomato yield was investigated in a number of cultivars with contrasting fruiting habits. Unless light is limiting, yield is mainly restricted by the number or the size of the fruit (i.e. the sink strength) rather than the supply of assimilate (i.e. the source strength). Fruit size is determined by both cell number and cell size. The rate of fruit expansion is affected by assimilate supply, temperature and water relations in the plant. The size or the growth rate of a tomato fruit is regulated by the import of assimilate and water. The sink strength for assimilate of a tomato fruit measured by the rate of assimilate import may be related to the routes of sugar transport into the sink cells during fruit development. Enzymic regulation of the hydrolysis of sucrose by sucrose synthase and the accumulation of starch by ADPG pyrophosphorylase may determine the rate of assimilate import in the young fruit. Vacuolar invertase activity may determine the sugar composition of a mature fruit, but may not affect the overall dry matter accumulation of a tomato fruit. While yield is determined by the balance between source and sink strengths of the plant, quality is determined by the transport and metabolism of sugars within the fruit.
Plant nutrition, dry matter gain and partitioning at the whole-plant level
Authors: McDonald A. James S. , Ericsson Tom , Larsson Carl-Magnus
Published: January 2011

Differential flows of photoassimilate result in patterns of dry matter distribution among plant organs. The extent to which these patterns are dependent on the flux of different mineral nutrients entering the root and the extent to which the distribution of dry matter in the whole plant is affected by differentials in nutrient (primarily nitrate) flux among parts of the root system is considered. It is concluded that patterns of dry matter distribution and nutritional status may depend on how nutrient supply has been manipulated about the root. Where the flux density of nutrient has been decreased and has become limiting to plant growth, two categories of response have been observed. In the case of N, P or S, limiting flux density results in a proportionately greater amount of plant dry matter in roots than is found at higher flux densities. This contrasts with the case of limiting K, Mg or Mn supply, where proportionately less plant dry matter is found in roots at lower nutrient flux densities than at higher flux densities. In the case of N, particular attention is paid as to how sink strength may be related to differences between root and leaf cells in their capacity for loosening and synthesis processes in the primary cell wall.
First Report of Coleus blumei viroid 2 from Commercial Coleus in China
Authors: Fu F. H. , Li S. F. , Jiang D. M. , Wang H. Q. , Liu A. Q. , Sang L. W.
Published: January 2011

Coleus (Coleus blumei) is an ornamental plant that is susceptible to infection by several viroids of the genus Coleviroid, which is a member of the family Pospiviroidae. Coleus blumei viroid (CbVd) -1 was first reported in commercial yellow coleus fields in Brazil in 1989 (1). In addition, CbVd-2, CbVd-3, and CbVd-4 have only been detected from coleus in Germany in 1996 (4). CbVd-5 and CbVd-6 were recently identified in China (2). In March 2010, leaves were collected from 50 symptomless coleus plants from a commercial nursery in Hainan Province, China. Total RNA was extracted from the leaves (3). Reverse transcription (RT)-PCR using CbVd-2 specific primers (forward: 5′-AGCTTACCTGGGTTCCCT-3′ and reverse: 5′-CTCTCCTCTATTTACTCTCTTCTC-3′) corresponding to positions 76 to 93 and 52 to 75 on the CbVd-2 reference sequence, respectively (GenBank Accession No. NC003682). Amplification of a 301-bp product was obtained from one sample. This PCR product was then cloned into pMD18-T (Takara, Dalian, China). Twelve positive clones were sequenced and the results were subjected to BLAST analysis. Sequence analysis showed that two sequences (GenBank Accessions Nos. HQ727542 and HQ727544) shared 99% identity with the reference sequence of CbVd-2 (NC003682), and four sequences (HQ727541, HQ727543, HQ727545 and HQ727547) had 99.34% identity with the reference sequence of CbVd-2 (NC003682). The proposed secondary structures of these variants have approximately 75% paired nucleotides. Results suggested the presence of CbVd-2, which is a member of the Coleviroid genus, Pospoviroidae family. To our knowledge, this is the first report of CbVd-2 from commercial coleus in China.

References: (1) M. E. N. Fonseca et al. Fitopatol. Bras. 14:94, 1989. (2) W. Y. Hou et al. Arch. Virol. 154:993, 2009. (3) S. F. Li et al. Ann. Phytopathol. Soc. Jpn. 61:381, 1995. (4) R. L. Spieker et al. J. Gen. Virol. 77:2839, 1996.
Identification of a Second Asian Soybean Rust Resistance Gene in Hyuuga Soybean
Authors: Kendrick Mandy D. , Harris Donna K. , Ha Bo-Keun , Hyten David L. , Cregan Perry B. , Frederick Reid D. , Boerma H. Roger , Pedley Kerry F.
Published: January 2011

Asian soybean rust (ASR) is an economically significant disease caused by the fungus Phakopsora pachyrhizi. The soybean genes Rpp3 and Rpp?(Hyuuga) confer resistance to specific isolates of the pathogen. Both genes map to chromosome 6 (Gm06) (linkage group [LG] C2). We recently identified 12 additional soybean accessions that harbor ASR resistance mapping to Gm06, within 5 centimorgans of Rpp3 and Rpp?(Hyuuga). To further characterize genotypes with resistance on Gm06, we used a set of eight P. pachyrhizi isolates collected from geographically diverse areas to inoculate plants and evaluate them for differential phenotypic responses. Three isolates elicited different responses from soybean accessions PI 462312 (Ankur) (Rpp3) and PI 506764 (Hyuuga) (Rpp?[Hyuuga]). In all, 11 of the new accessions yielded responses identical to either PI 462312 or Hyuuga and 1 of the new accessions, PI 417089B (Kuro daizu), differed from all others. Additional screening of Hyuuga-derived recombinant inbred lines indicated that Hyuuga carries two resistance genes, one at the Rpp3 locus on Gm06 and a second, unlinked ASR resistance gene mapping to Gm03 (LG-N) near Rpp5. These findings reveal a natural case of gene pyramiding for ASR resistance in Hyuuga and underscore the importance of utilizing multiple isolates of P. pachyrhizi when screening for ASR resistance.
Procoagulant properties of microparticles released from red blood cells in paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria
Authors: Kozuma Yukinori , Sawahata Yuka , Takei Yumi , Chiba Shigeru , Ninomiya Haruhiko
Published: January 2011

Thrombosis in paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) has been suggested to be due to several pathophysiological states: a suppressed fibrinolytic system, increased leucocyte‐derived tissue factor, complement (C′)‐mediated damage to platelets and endothelia, or increased platelet‐ and endothelium‐derived microparticles (MPs). Because haemolytic attack is often accompanied by thrombosis in PNH, we studied the role of C′‐induced release of MPs in the thrombogenesis of PNH. C′ activation induced procoagulant alteration in PNH red blood cells (RBC), when assessed by thrombin generation in the presence of C′‐activated PNH RBC, which was abolished by their subsequent treatment with annexin V. Significant amounts of procoagulant MPs, measured by phosphatidylserine‐binding prothrombinase activity, were released from PNH RBC in association with the formation of C5b‐9, but not significantly before C5b‐8. Generation of procoagulant, annexin V‐binding, MPs from C′‐activated RBC was studied also by flow cytometry. While phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate, an activator of protein kinase C (PKC), induced the release of MPs from normal RBC as well as PNH RBC, C′‐induced release of MPs from PNH RBC was Ca2+‐independent and not associated with the activation of PKC, calpain or caspase. Procoagulant properties of MPs released from PNH RBC could contribute to the thrombogenesis of PNH.
Treatment‐related deaths in second complete remission in childhood acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Molgaard‐Hansen Lene , Möttönen Merja , Glosli Heidi , Jónmundsson Guðmundur K. , Abrahamsson Jonas , Hasle Henrik ,   On behalf of the Nordic Society of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (NOPHO)
Published: January 2011

The frequency and causes of treatment‐related deaths (TRD) in second complete remission (CR2) in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) were investigated in a historical, prospective cohort study of 429 children included in the Nordic Society of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (NOPHO)‐AML‐88 and ‐93 trials. Relapse occurred in 158 children (39%). Seventeen (18%) of the 96 patients entering CR2 suffered TRD. The main causes were infection (59%) and complications from graft‐versus‐host disease (22%). Fourteen (82%) of 17 TRDs occurred in children undergoing haematopoietic stem cell transplantations (HSCT). Optimal supportive care after HSCT is essential, and studies on risk factors for TRD are needed.
Inter‐rater reliability of the Developmental Behaviour Checklist for Adults in community accommodation settings
Authors: Mohr C. , Tonge B. J. , Taffe J. , Rymill A. , Collins D. , Keating C. , Einfeld S. L.
Published: January 2011

Background  With the publication of the Developmental Behaviour Checklist for Adults (DBC‐A), people of all ages with intellectual disability (ID) can now be assessed using a carer‐completed screening checklist of emotional and behavioural disturbance. This provides a broad assessment framework across the life span, assists the process of clinical assessment, diagnosis and management, and, through efficient screening, helps ensure that people with ID and high levels of disturbed behaviour are more likely to receive the often scarce and costly behavioural and mental health services that are available.

Earlier studies have reported acceptable results of test–retest reliability studies with family members and paid carers in community settings and the results of an inter‐rater reliability study completed with family members. This study reports on another aspect of DBC‐A reliability, inter‐rater reliability with paid carers, in two small community‐based accommodation settings.

Method  Participants were 38 pairs of paid carers employed by two non‐government agencies providing residential services in small group homes to 38 adults with ID in the community.

Results  An intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.69 (n = 38, 95% CI 0.54–0.86) was found between pairs of paid carers employed in small group homes.

Discussion  Pairs of paid carers working with adults with ID in small group homes reliably completed DBC‐A checklists. An ICC result of 0.69 compares favourably with the results of an earlier inter‐rater study completed with the family members of people with ID living in the community. Inter‐rater reliability on the six DBC‐A sub‐scales was also computed and the results were satisfactory.

Conclusions  The carer‐completed DBC‐A provides a broad and comprehensive survey of the emotional and behavioural problems of adults with ID. It has satisfactory psychometric properties, which have been further extended. The DBC‐A can be used in clinical, research and service settings to assess psychopathology across the adult life span in people with ID.
Inhibition of cytochrome P450 2A participating in coumarin 7‐hydroxylation in pig liver microsomes
Authors: LIU Z.‐Y. , DAI M.‐H. , TAO Y.‐F. , CHEN D.‐M. , YUAN Z.‐H.
Published: January 2011

Liu, Z.‐Y., Dai, M.‐H., Tao, Y.‐F., Chen, D.‐M., Yuan, Z.‐H. Inhibition of cytochrome P450 2A participating in coumarin 7‐hydroxylation in pig liver microsomes.J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap.34, 424–429.

Five commonly used human cytochrome P450 (CYP) inhibitors were examined for their effects on coumarin 7‐hydroxylase (CYP2A) activity in pig liver microsomes. TheKmandVmaxvalues for coumarin 7‐hydroxylation in pig liver microsomes were estimated to be 1 μmand 0.26 nmol·mg/min, respectively. The following human CYP inhibitors caused little or no inhibition of CYP2A as defined by aKi > 200 μm: quinidine (CYP2D6), troleandomycin (CYP3A4), and sulfaphenazole (CYP2C9). The other two human CYP inhibitors were classified as strong inhibitors of CYP2A: 8‐methoxypsoralen (CYP2A6) and α‐naphthoflavone (CYP1A1/2). In the absence of a preincubation period, 8‐MOP inhibited the 7‐hydroxylation of coumarin with aKivalue of 1.1 μm, which decreased to 0.1 μmwhen 8‐MOP was preincubated with pig liver microsomes for 3 min. α‐Naphthoflavone inhibited the 7‐hydroxylation of coumarin with aKivalue of 32 μm, which did not increase ability to inhibitor CYP2A when α‐naphthoflavone was preincubated with pig liver microsomes for 3 min. These results of this study suggest that 8‐MOP is a potent, mechanism‐based inhibitor of pig CYP2A activity in pig liver microsomes.
The influence of modulation of P‐glycoprotein and /or Cytochrome P450 3A on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of orally administered morphine in dogs
Authors: GADEYNE C. , VAN der HEYDEN S. , GASTHUYS F. , CROUBELS S. , SCHAUVLIEGE S. , POLIS I.
Published: January 2011

Gadeyne, C., Van der Heyden, S., Gasthuys, F., Croubels, S., Schauvliege, S., Polis, I. The influence of modulation of P‐glycoprotein and/or Cytochrome P450 3A on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of orally administered morphine in dogs.J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap.34, 417–423.

The influence of pretreatment with ketoconazole [cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) + P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) inhibitor], elacridar (selective P‐gp inhibitor) and rifampicin (CYP3A + P‐gp inducer) on oral morphine pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics was investigated in experimental dogs. Seven beagles were used in a four‐way crossover design. Morphine hydrochloride was administered orally (2.5 mg/kg) alone (control group CON) or after pretreatment with ketoconazole (group KETO), elacridar (group ELA) or rifampicin (group RIF). Morphine plasma concentrations were analysed by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. Sedation scores (none, mild, moderate or severe) were evaluated subjectively. Dogs were significantly (P < 0.05) more sedated after ketoconazole pretreatment. There were no significant differences between group CON and the other pretreatment groups in pharmacokinetic parameters taking both sexes into account. Sex differences were apparent in some pharmacokinetic parameters of morphine. The area under the plasma concentration time curve (AUC0–∞) was significantly higher, and the total body clearance was significantly lower in male compared to female dogs in all treatment groups. Ketoconazole, rifampicin and elacridar pretreatment had no significant effects on morphine pharmacokinetics, although dogs in the ketoconazole group showed higher sedation scores.
Norms and demographic differences of the Short Form‐12 Health Survey version 2 in Chinese adolescents
Authors: Mak Kwok‐Kei , Ho Sai‐Yin , Fong Daniel Yee‐Tak , Lo Wing‐Sze , Lai Yuen‐Kwan , Lam Tai‐Hing
Published: January 2011

Aim:  This study aimed to establish the normative values for the 12‐item Short Form Health Survey version 2 (SF‐12v2) and examine demographic differences among Hong Kong Chinese adolescents.

Methods:  A total of 28 981 Hong Kong Chinese adolescents aged 12–18 participated in a school‐based survey in 2006–2007. Sex‐ and age‐specific SF‐12v2 scores were obtained. Ordinal logistic regression models and linear regression models were used to examine the demographic differences for the eight subscales including physical functioning, role physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, role emotional and mental health, and two component summary scores of Physical Component Summary and Mental Component Summary.

Results:  The mean (standard deviation) Physical Component Summary score was 50.28 (6.82) for boys and 49.37 (6.47) for girls. The corresponding Mental Component Summary score was 45.86 (9.86) for boys and 44.77 (9.56) for girls. Ceiling effects were observed in some of the eight subscales but not the two component summary scores. Ordinal logistic regression showed that girls had significantly lower scores than boys in most subscales including physical functioning with odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of 0.89 (0.84–0.93); role physical, 0.94 (0.90–0.98); bodily pain, 0.76 (0.73–0.80); general health, 0.55 (0.53–0.57); vitality, 0.72 (0.69–0.75); role emotional, 0.78 (0.74–0.81); and mental health, 0.91 (0.88–0.95). In general, older and non‐local‐born adolescents had lower component summary scores than their peers.

Conclusions:  This study has provided norms and identified demographic differences of the Chinese SF‐12v2.
Natural disasters and the lung
Authors: ROBINSON BRUCE , ALATAS MOHAMMAD FAHMI , ROBERTSON ANDREW , STEER HENRY
Published: January 2011

As the world population expands, an increasing number of people are living in areas which may be threatened by natural disasters. Most of these major natural disasters occur in the Asian region. Pulmonary complications are common following natural disasters and can result from direct insults to the lung or may be indirect, secondary to overcrowding and the collapse in infrastructure and health‐care systems which often occur in the aftermath of a disaster. Delivery of health care in disaster situations is challenging and anticipation of the types of clinical and public health problems faced in disaster situations is crucial when preparing disaster responses. In this article we review the pulmonary effects of natural disasters in the immediate setting and in the post‐disaster aftermath and we discuss how this could inform planning for future disasters.
Serum high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, their relationship with baseline functional and cognitive status, and their utility in predicting mortality in nonagenarians
Authors: Formiga Francesc , Ferrer Assumpta , Chivite David , Pinto Xavier , Cuerpo Sandra , Pujol Ramón
Published: January 2011

Aim:  Little is known about the role of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) in oldest‐old subjects. The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between HDL‐C levels and physical and cognitive performance indicators in nonagenarians, and also to determine the influence of HDL‐C levels on the 3‐year mortality risk.

Methods:  The data analyzed were taken from the NonaSantfeliu Study. Functional status was determined by the Lawton–Brody Index (LI) for instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) and the Barthel Index (BI) for basic activities (BADL). Cognition was assessed using the Spanish version of the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MEC).

Results:  The sample consisted of 49 women (79%) and 13 men, aged 94.3 ± 2.6 years. Mean HDL‐C levels were 60 ± 16 mg/dL, and 16 subjects (25.8%) had low HDL‐C values. HDL‐C levels did correlate with BI (r = 0.28, P = 0.02) and LI (r = 0.32, P = 0.01), but not with MEC (r = 0.18, P = 0.15). Normal HDL‐C levels at baseline were significantly associated with higher BI scores (P < 0.006, odds ratio [OR] = 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01–1.05) and a lower number of prescription drugs used (P < 0.04, OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.49–0.99). Baseline HDL‐C levels were significantly lower among the group of nonagenarians who died within the 3 years of follow up (P = 0.02). However, after adjusting for potential confounders, the association between HDL‐C and mortality lost significance.

Conclusion:  Higher levels of HDL‐C correlate with better functional status and less use of prescribed drugs in nonagenarians. However, the relationship between low HDL‐C levels and long‐term mortality in this population remains unclear. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2011; 11: 358–364.
Ultrasound‐guided bilateral paravertebral continuous nerve blocks for a mildly coagulopathic patient undergoing exploratory laparotomy for bowel resection
Authors: Visoiu Mihaela , Yang Charles
Published: January 2011

Regional anesthesia techniques commonly utilized in post‐operative pain management are often considered contraindicated in coagulopathic patients. We report on successful postoperative pain control utilizing peripheral nerve blockade after exploratory laparotomy with small bowel resection in a mildly coagulopathic patient. In our case, complicated by abnormal PT, PTT and INR, a thromboelastogram (TEG) was performed before the procedure and found to be normal. An ultrasound‐guided bilateral paravertebral blockade with continuous paravertebral catheters was then performed in this pediatric patient without complications. The patient expressed satisfaction with his pain control. More studies are needed to evaluate the validity of TEG in the prediction of bleeding risk and the safety of this regional technique in a mildly coagulopathic patients.
High oolong tea consumption predicts future risk of diabetes among Japanese male workers: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Hayashino Y. , Fukuhara S. , Okamura T. , Tanaka T. , Ueshima H. ,   for the HIPOP‐OHP Research Group
Published: January 2011

Diabet. Med. 28, 805–810 (2011)

Aims  Acute administration of oolong tea decreases blood glucose levels. We investigated the association between long‐term oolong tea intake and subsequent risk of developing diabetes among men of working age.

Methods  Data were analysed from a cohort of participants in the High‐risk and Population Strategy for Occupational Health Promotion Study (HIPOP‐OHP), conducted in Japan from 1999 to 2004. Oolong tea intake at baseline and subsequent risk of diabetes was evaluated using a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results  Of 4975 male workers, a total of 201 cases of diabetes were reported over a median of 3.4 years of follow‐up. Mean age and BMI of all participants at baseline were 38.3 years and 22.9 kg/m2, respectively. Compared with those not consuming oolong tea, multivariable adjusted hazard ratios for developing diabetes were 1.00 (95% CI 0.67–1.49) for those who drank one cup of oolong tea per day and 1.64 (95% CI 1.11–2.40) for those drinking two or more cups per day. Fasting blood glucose increment per year was 0.11 mmol/l (95% CI 0.09–0.12 mmol/l), 0.12 mmol/l (95% CI 0.09–0.15 mmol/l) and 0.15 mmol/l (95% CI 0.11–0.18 mmol/l), respectively, for oolong tea consumption of 0, 1 and ≥ 2 cups/day, with a significant linear trend (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions  Long‐term consumption of oolong tea may be a predictive factor for new onset diabetes. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the role of oolong tea in the risk of developing diabetes.
Use of dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate the microcirculation of lower extremity muscles in patients with Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Wang J. , Li Y.‐H. , Li M.‐H. , Zhao J.‐G. , Bao Y.‐Q. , Zhou Jian
Published: January 2011

Diabet. Med. 28, 618–621 (2011)

Aims  To quantify the capillary permeability of the lower extremity muscles using dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging in healthy control subjects without diabetes and patients with diabetes before and after percutaneous angioplasty.

Methods  Fifty‐five patients (30 without diabetes, 25 with Type 2 diabetes with occluded vasculature of the lower extremities) were examined by dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. The transfer constant (K‐trans) of the tibialis anterior muscle was determined before (for all patients) and after (for patients with diabetes only) percutaneous angioplasty of the intrapopliteal artery. Clinical assessment was also recorded. Statistical significant differences were defined at the level of P < 0.05.

Results  Before percutaneous angioplasty, patients with diabetes displayed significantly lower K‐trans values in the tibialis anterior muscles than control subjects. Although percutaneous angioplasty increased the K‐trans of these patients, the final values were still less than those of the control group. Differences were also observed between the groups in the Fontaine classification and ankle–brachial index, which reflect ischaemia in the lower extremities. After percutaneous angioplasty, these values were increased in the group with diabetes.

Conclusion  K‐trans can be used to quantify changes in the capillary permeability of the lower extremity muscles, reflecting the microcirculation of the lower extremities.
EU Banks Rating Assignments: Is There Heterogeneity between New and Old Member Countries?
Authors: Caporale Guglielmo Maria , Matousek Roman , Stewart Chris
Published: January 2011

We model EU countries' bank ratings using financial variables and allowing for intercept and slope heterogeneity. Our aim is to assess whether “old” and “new” EU countries are rated differently and to determine whether “new” ones are assigned lower ratings, ceteris paribus, than “old” ones. We find that country‐specific factors (in the form of heterogeneous intercepts) are a crucial determinant of ratings. Whilst “new” EU countries typically have lower ratings than “old” ones, after controlling for financial variables we also discover that all countries have significantly different intercepts, confirming our prior belief. This intercept heterogeneity suggests that each country's rating is assigned uniquely, after controlling for differences in financial factors, which may reflect differences in country risk and the legal and regulatory framework that banks face (such as foreclosure laws). In addition, we find that ratings may respond differently to the liquidity and operating expenses to operating income variables across countries. Typically ratings are more responsive to the former and less sensitive to the latter for “new” EU countries compared with “old” EU countries.
The Impact of Developing Social Perspective‐taking Skills on Emotionality in Middle and Late Childhood
Authors: Bengtsson Hans , Arvidsson Åsa
Published: January 2011

A sample of 209 children was followed longitudinally to examine the impact of growing perspective‐taking skills on positive and negative emotionality in middle and late childhood. Perspective‐taking skills were assessed through interviews. Teachers rated children's emotional reactivity and capacity to regain a neutral state following emotional arousal. Analyses of contemporaneous data revealed that more developed perspective‐taking skills were associated with moderate levels of emotional reactivity. In addition, in children with high emotional reactivity, good perspective‐taking skills were associated with good capacity to regain a neutral affective state following emotional arousal. Longitudinal analyses revealed that children who made gains in perspective‐taking skills over a two‐year‐period became more moderate in negative emotional reactivity and improved their ability to down‐regulate strong positive emotions. The overall findings support the notion that children use perspective‐taking skills as a tool for optimal regulation of emotional responses.
In Building a Script for an Emotion, Do Preschoolers Add Its Cause Before Its Behavior Consequence?
Authors: Widen Sherri C. , Russell James A.
Published: January 2011

An emotion concept is a script in which an emotion event is an ordered sequence of subevents from situational cause through bodily changes to behavioral consequence. As children build a script for each emotion, in what order do they add each subevent? Preschoolers (N = 108, three to five years), were asked to name the protagonist's emotion in stories consisting solely of either a cause or a consequence of one of six emotions. More children correctly inferred happiness, fear, sadness, and disgust from their causes than from their consequences, but more correctly inferred anger from its consequence than from its cause. (No significant difference was found for surprise.) Subevents are added to scripts in a different order for different emotions.
Identity Styles and Interpersonal Behavior in Emerging Adulthood: The Intervening Role of Empathy
Authors: Smits Ilse , Doumen Sarah , Luyckx Koen , Duriez Bart , Goossens Luc
Published: January 2011

This study examined the intervening role of empathy in the relations between identity styles (i.e., information‐oriented, normative, and diffuse‐avoidant styles), and inter‐personal behaviors (i.e., prosocial behavior, self‐ and other‐oriented helping, and physical and relational aggression). In a sample of 341 emerging adults, it was found that an information‐oriented style relates to a more adaptive pattern of interpersonal behaviors whereas a normative or a diffuse‐avoidant identity style relate to a more maladaptive pattern of interpersonal behaviors. Empathy played an intervening role between the information‐oriented style and interpersonal behavior, and between the diffuse‐avoidant style and interpersonal behavior. However, empathy did not intervene between the normative style and interpersonal behavior. Implications for future research are discussed.
The First Offenders Act, 1958
Authors: Williams J. E. Hall
Published: January 2011

Ox July 7, 1958, there came into operation the First Offenders Act, 1958, which is, to quote its Long Title, “an Act to restrict the imprisonment of first offenders.” Sponsored by Sir George Benson, M.P., as a Private Member's Bill, it received support and encouragement from the Home Office, which provided some drafting assistance, and it was almost unanimously welcomed in the House of Commons as a measure which would contribute in some degree to the solution of certain urgent penal problems.
Contract Doesn't Live Here any More?
Authors: Kerr Tony
Published: January 2011

“Parliament intended that Industrial Tribunals should provide a quick and cheap remedy for what it had decided were injustices in the employment sphere. The procedure was to be such that both employers and employees could present their cases without having to go to lawyers for help. Within a few years legalism has started to take over. It must be driven back if possible.”1
Expectations in a Joyless Landscape
Authors: Baldwin Robert , Horne David
Published: January 2011

“Ahead there stretches—to the farthest horizon—the joyless landscape of the public interest state. The life it promises will be comfortable and comforting. It will be well planned—with suitable areas for work and play. But there will be no precincts sacred to the spirit of individual man.” (Charles Reich, “The New Property”1)
THE TIES THAT BIND
Authors: Duxbury Neil
Published: January 2011

Making Law Bind: Essays Legal and Philosophical. By Tony Honoré.
Social Security, Student Loans and Access to Education
Authors: Harris Neville
Published: January 2011

The issue of student loans has been under public discussion for some time, but another change in their finances which affects many of them has not been debated so much in public — and that is the removal of their housing benefit … It is very unfortunate that, just as the wish of students to participate in higher education is growing, they should be discouraged in this particular way.
Effective continuous systemic therapy of severe plaque‐type psoriasis is accompanied by amelioration of biomarkers of cardiovascular risk: results of a prospective longitudinal observational study
Authors: Boehncke S. , Salgo R. , Garbaraviciene J. , Beschmann H. , Hardt K. , Diehl S. , Fichtlscherer S. , Thaçi D. , Boehncke W.‐H.
Published: January 2011

Background  Severe psoriasis is associated with significant cardiovascular mortality.

Objectives  We investigated the effects of continuous systemic therapy on the cardiovascular risk of patients with severe plaque‐type psoriasis.

Methods  A total of 42 consecutive patients receiving systemic treatment for their severe plaque‐type psoriasis were included. The clinical course was monitored over 24 weeks. Initially as well as after 12 and 24 weeks, oral glucose tolerance tests were performed along with comprehensive laboratory monitoring.

Results  Responding patients, defined as a Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI)‐50 response, showed correlations between the PASI and high‐sensitive C‐reactive protein (r = 0.45, P = 0.03) as well as with vascular endothelial growth factor (r = 0.76, P = 0.007). The adipokine resistin was positively and the potentially cardio‐protective adiponectin was negatively correlated with the PASI (r = 0.50, P = 0.02 and r = −0.56, P = 0.007, respectively). Oral glucose tolerance tests yielded a correlation between the PASI and plasma levels for C‐peptide (r = 0.73, P = 0.02) at t = 120 min in patients with a pathological Homeostasis Model Assessment (>2.5), indicating that the state of peripheral insulin resistance is driven at least in part by the severity of the psoriatic inflammation. Correlations between the change of adipokine levels and change in PASI were more pronounced among patients with better clinical improvement (PASI‐75 vs. PASI‐50).

Conclusions  We document an amelioration of biomarkers of cardiovascular risk in patients with severe plaque‐type psoriasis responding to continuous systemic therapy. The impact on the patients’metabolic state was found to be better if the psoriatic inflammation was controlled for longer. Future studies need to compare the cardioprotective effects of different treatment modalities, based on hard clinical endpoints.
Unilateral nevoid telangiectasia accompanied by neurological disorders
Authors: Akman‐Karakaş A. , Kandemir H. , Senol U. , Unal A. , Duman O. , Ciftcioglu M.A. , Haspolat S. , Alpsoy E.
Published: January 2011

Background  Unilateral nevoid telangiectasia (UNT) is a unique vascular dermatosis of ambiguous aetiology.

Objective  To investigate the role of neurological disorder in pathogenesis of the UNT.

Methods  We investigated eight consecutive patients with unilateral nevoid telangiectasia. Detailed dermatological and neurological examinations, and magnetic resonance imaging were performed on each patient. In case of presence of dysesthesia over the skin lesion, electroneuromyography was performed to determine any relationships between lesions and peripheral neuropathy.

Results  All the patients had hypoesthesia over the skin lesion. The cranial magnetic resonance imaging showed subcortical hamartomatous lesions in one patient and demyelinized plaques on the corpus of the caudate nucleus and the pontin area in another. Electroneuromyography evaluation was nonspecific.

Conclusion  In our study, neurological disorders were associated with UNT. Thus, it can be speculated that neurological disorders might contribute to the development and/or progression of UNT. Patients with UNT should be encouraged for neurological investigation.
Viral nationalism: romantic intellectuals on the move in nineteenth‐century Europe
Authors: LEERSSEN JOEP
Published: January 2011

ABSTRACT.Intellectuals were important to the spread of nationalist ideology in nineteenth‐century Europe for a variety of reasons. Firstly, their works facilitated the international spread of the discourse of nationalism; secondly, they mediated between the fields of political institutions and cultural reflection. This article looks at the international mobility and networks of romantic‐nationalist intellectuals, and uses the case of August Heinrich Hoffmann von Fallersleben (1798–1874) as an example.