bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Competitive interactions between weedy rice and cultivated rice as a function of added nitrogen and the level of competition
Authors: CHAUHAN BHAGIRATH S. , JOHNSON DAVID E.
Published: December 2011

The competitive outcomes between weedy rice from Malaysia (MWR), the Philippines (PWR), and Vietnam (VWR) and cultivated rice (IR64) grown in pots were evaluated in a replacement series experiment with added N (0, 50, 100, and 150 kg N ha−1) and competition with IR64 plants (no competition, eight weedy rice plants : 0 IR64 plants; low competition, six weedy rice plants : two IR64 plants; and high competition, two weedy rice plants : six IR64 plants). The growth observations were taken at 10 weeks after sowing. When grown in a monoculture (no competition with IR64 plants), the PWR plants had a lower shoot biomass across N rates than did the MWR and VWR plants. The leaf area and shoot biomass of weedy rice across populations significantly increased with an increase in the N application rate. Each weedy rice population and the IR64 population showed linear responses of the leaf area and shoot biomass to the N rate at all levels of competition. The weedy rice and IR64 plants, when grown without competition, had a similar rate of response in the shoot biomass to the N rate. However, when grown in competition, the response to the added N varied among the weedy rice populations. The MWR plants under competition produced a similar amount of shoot biomass to the IR64 plants per unit addition of N. In contrast, the PWR and VWR populations under competition produced a greater amount of shoot biomass with each additional unit of N, compared to the IR64 population. The results illustrate that N fertilizer management might affect the outcome of weedy rice competition. This information could be incorporated into weedy rice management strategies.
Biology and diagnosis of aberrant crypt foci
Authors: Lopez‐Ceron M. , Pellise M.
Published: December 2011

Aim  Aberrant crypt foci (ACFs) are clusters of colonic crypts that can be identified after staining and that have a different behaviour than the surrounding crypts. They have been hypothesized to be the potential precursors of colonic neoplastic lesions. Since they are detectable in vivo with endoscopic stains, they have been proposed as early biomarkers for colonic carcinogenesis. Our aim was to examine the literature regarding the role of ACFs in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC).

Method  An intensive PubMed search was performed with the following terms: aberrant crypt foci, colorectal cancer, biomarker, carcinogenesis.

Results  Aberrant crypt foci have a variable prevalence and little is known about their natural history. They can be classified as hyperplastic or dysplastic. There is evidence that supports their role as preneoplastic lesions and features detectable by chromoendoscopy have been related to CRC risk. Moreover, ACFs have been shown to harbour genetic and epigenetic alterations common in adenomas and CRC. However, contradictory results have been obtained and difficulties in endoscopic detection and characterization have been described in large‐scale studies.

Conclusion  Despite the inconsistencies in ACF detection and characterization, several genetic and epigenetic changes common in both ACFs and CRC have been verified throughout the studies. This evidence is increasingly strong and it grows along with progress in the knowledge of carcinogenesis molecular pathways. Clinical application of ACFs as an intermediate endpoint for colorectal carcinogenesis is under development and a deeper knowledge of cancer mechanisms is needed before it can be applied or discarded.
Going beyond limitations of plant functional types when predicting global ecosystem–atmosphere fluxes: exploring the merits of traits‐based approaches
Authors: Van Bodegom P. M. , Douma J. C. , Witte J. P. M. , Ordoñez J. C. , Bartholomeus R. P. , Aerts R.
Published: December 2011

Aim  Despite their importance for predicting fluxes to and from terrestrial ecosystems, dynamic global vegetation models have insufficient realism because of their use of plant functional types (PFTs) with constant attributes. Based on recent advances in community ecology, we explore the merits of a traits‐based vegetation model to deal with current shortcomings.

Location  Global.

Methods  A research review of current concepts and information, providing a new perspective, supported by quantitative analysis of a global traits database.

Results  Continuous and process‐based trait–environment relations are central to a traits‐based approach and allow us to directly calculate fluxes based on functional characteristics. By quantifying community assembly concepts, it is possible to predict trait values from environmental drivers, although these relations are still imperfect. Through the quantification of these relations, effects of adaptation and species replacement upon environmental changes are implicitly accounted for. Such functional links also allow direct calculation of fluxes, including those related to feedbacks through the nitrogen and water cycle. Finally, a traits‐based model allows the prediction of new trait combinations and no‐analogue ecosystem functions projected to arise in the near future, which is not feasible in current vegetation models. A separate calculation of ecosystem fluxes and PFT occurrences in traits‐based models allows for flexible vegetation classifications.

Main conclusions  Given the advantages described above, we argue that traits‐based modelling deserves consideration (although it will not be easy) if one is to aim for better climate projections.
Integrating Biodiversity in the Climate Regime's Forest Rules: Options and Tradeoffs in Greening REDD Design
Authors: van Asselt Harro
Published: December 2011

Forests play a crucial role at the interface of the international legal regimes for climate change and biodiversity protection. However, the rules on land use, land‐use change and forestry developed under the Kyoto Protocol have only provided limited incentives to protect biodiversity. A new opportunity to exploit potential synergies between the climate and biodiversity regimes is provided by the ongoing negotiations on reduced emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD), yet the biodiversity impacts of a REDD mechanism will crucially depend on its design. Against that background, this article suggests and examines various options to integrate biodiversity considerations in REDD design. It shows that while the explicit incorporation of biodiversity considerations is possible, doing so will force negotiators to make inevitable tradeoffs. The first tradeoff is between pursuing a legally binding agreement and strong references to biodiversity in a future agreement, whereas the second tradeoff is between the strength of such references and the need to secure countries' participation in a future REDD mechanism. Nevertheless, the article concludes that such tradeoffs need not necessarily lead to the exclusion of biodiversity concerns under a future climate regime.
Changing Dynamics of Forest Regulation: Coming Full Circle?
Authors: Srivastava Nidhi
Published: December 2011

With REDD and REDD+ gaining importance in international environmental law and policy discussions, this article reviews the fragmented strands of binding international law touching on forests to trace the evolution of these issues in international law. It examines the regulation of (a) trees as a commodity, (b) trees as endangered species, (c) forests as a tool to combat desertification, (d) forests and biological diversity and (e) forests as a tool to address climate change. The analysis suggests that the current approach to climate and forests monetizes forests, which is an approach that is reminiscent of colonial treatment of forests, even though the objectives and approaches are very different.
ARE FISCAL SUSTAINABILITY AND STABLE BALANCED GROWTH EQUILIBRIUM SIMULTANEOUSLY ATTAINABLE?
Authors: Kamiguchi Akira , Tamai Toshiki
Published: December 2011

This paper presents an examination of the sustainability of national debt and economic growth, and the growth effects of government debt and income taxation. Results show sustainability of national debt and economic growth under the primary surplus rule. Fiscal policy and balanced growth are compatibly sustainable if and only if the government sets a long‐run target debt/GDP (gross domestic product) ratio within a reasonable range. Results also show that a rise in the long‐run debt/GDP ratio reduces the balanced growth rate. Based on these two results, the long‐run debt/GDP ratio is greater than zero if the government aims to maximize the balanced growth rate.
Comparative study of treatment efficacy and the incidence of post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation with different degrees of irradiation using two different quality‐switched lasers for removing solar lentigines on Asian skin
Authors: Negishi K. , Akita H. , Tanaka S. , Yokoyama Y. , Wakamatsu S. , Matsunaga K.
Published: December 2011

Background  Quality‐switched (QS) lasers are well‐known effective treatment for removing solar lentigines. However, the high incidence of post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) raises concern in darker skin types. This is the first study comparing efficacies and incidences of PIH in Asian skin with different degrees of irradiation between two QS lasers.

Method  In total, 355 solar lentigines in 193 cases, skin types III–V, were randomly divided into four groups. All cases received single laser treatment. Clinical results were evaluated after 4 weeks. Groups 1 and 3 were treated ‘aggressively’ with endpoints of very obvious immediate whitening (IW) of the lesion. Groups 2 and 4 were treated ‘mildly’ with endpoints of slight IW of the lesion. Groups 1 and 2 were irradiated with the QS ruby, and groups 3 and 4 with the QS frequency doubled Nd:YAG laser.

Results  There were no statistically significant differences in degrees of clearance among the four groups. However, PIH incidences were very different: 33.33%, 7.47%, 23.18% and 8.47% in groups 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively. The difference between aggressively and mildly irradiated groups (1 and 3 vs. 2 and 4) was statistically significant (P < 0.001). However, there was no statistical difference between the two aggressively or the two mildly irradiated groups. There were no significant differences between skin types.

Conclusion  Aggressive irradiation using QS lasers resulted in a high PIH incidence, while having no advantage in efficacy. For darker skin types, mild irradiation reduces the PIH risk with no disadvantage in efficacy.
Intravenous fat emulsion as treatment for ivermectin toxicosis in three dogs homozygous for the ABCB1–1Δ gene mutation
Authors: Wright Heather M. , Chen Annie V. , Talcott Patricia A. , Poppenga Robert H. , Mealey Katrina L.
Published: December 2011

Objective

To describe the outcome of 3 cases of ivermectin toxicosis in dogs homozygous for the ABCB1–1Δ gene mutation treated with intravenous fat emulsion (IFE).

Series Summary

One Australian Shepherd and 2 Miniature Australian Shepherds were treated for naturally occurring ivermectin toxicosis with IFE. All 3 dogs were homozygous for the ABCB1–1Δ gene mutation. Serum ivermectin concentrations confirmed ivermectin exposure in each case. All 3 dogs exhibited tremors, ptyalism, and central nervous system depression, which progressed over several hours to stupor in 2 dogs, and to a comatose state requiring mechanical ventilation in the remaining dog. A 20% formulation of IFEa was administered as an IV bolus (1.5 mL/kg) followed by a slow IV infusion (7.5–15 mL/kg [0.25–0.5 mL/kg/m], over 30 minutes). No change was observed in the neurologic status of any patient. Lipemia visible upon blood sampling persisted for 36 hours in 1 dog however, no other adverse effects were noted. Flumazenil (0.01 mg/kg IV), followed by a constant rate infusion(CRI) of 0.01 mg/kg/h IV was administered in 1 case, without any apparent clinical benefit or adverse effect.

New or Unique Information Provided

IFE was ineffective in the treatment of ivermectin toxicosis in these ABCB1–1Δ homozygous mutant dogs. Further investigation is necessary to determine why IFE treatment was unsuccessful in these cases and whether its use can be optimized to yield better results.
Propylene glycol intoxication in a dog
Authors: Claus Melissa A. , Jandrey Karl E. , Poppenga Robert H.
Published: December 2011

Objective

To describe the clinical course, treatment, and outcome of a dog with propylene glycol intoxication.

Case Summary

An adult castrated male Australian cattle dog presented to an emergency clinic for an acute onset of ataxia and disorientation after roaming a construction site unsupervised. He tested positive for ethylene glycol using a point‐of‐care test kit. Treatment for ethylene glycol intoxication included intermittent intravenous boluses of 20% ethanol and hemodialysis. Predialysis and postdialysis blood samples were submitted to the toxicology lab to assess for both ethylene and propylene glycol. The patient tested negative for ethylene glycol and positive for propylene glycol at 1100 mg/dL predialysis and 23 mg/dL postdialysis. The dog made a full recovery.

New or Unique Information Provided

To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of documented propylene glycol intoxication in a dog, as well as the first report to describe hemodialysis as treatment for propylene glycol intoxication in a dog.
Sleep aid toxicosis in dogs: 317 cases (2004–2010)
Authors: Lancaster Adam R. , Lee Justine A. , Hovda Lynn R. , Hardy Brian T. , Miyahara Lee X. , Martin Elizabeth P. , Whelan Megan F.
Published: December 2011

Objective

To summarize the signalment, clinical signs observed, time to onset of clinical signs, duration of clinical signs, and the outcome in a large case series of nonbenzodiazepine sleep aid ingestions in dogs, including 2 sleep aids that have not been previously described in the veterinary literature.

Design

Retrospective study conducted between 2004 and 2010.

Setting

An animal poison control center based out of Bloomington, MN.

Animals

During this time frame, 453 cases were identified involving 467 dogs. Of these cases, 150 cases were excluded due to incomplete medical records, multipet households, or the inability to calculate a dose exposure. A total of 317 dogs with presumed sleep aid medication toxicosis were included.

Interventions

None.

Measurements and Main Results

Records of dogs with sleep aid medication toxicosis identified by a review of an animal poison control center electronic database were evaluated. The most common sleep aid medications ingested were zolpidem (240/317 [75.7%]), eszopiclone (62/317 [19.5%]), and zaleplon (15/317 [4.7%]). Overall, clinical signs developed in 36% of patients (115/317), while 64% (202/317) remained asymptomatic. The most common organ systems affected and clinical signs seen involved the central nervous system (eg, agitation, sedation) and gastrointestinal tract (eg, anorexia, hypersalivation, vomiting).

Conclusions

Overall, the prognosis for dogs with sleep aid medication toxicosis was excellent, and no fatalities were reported in this clinical population. As significant clinical signs can still be seen with ingestion, appropriate decontamination is warranted in asymptomatic patients via emesis or gastric lavage, followed by activated charcoal administration. Symptomatic patients should be hospitalized for monitoring and supportive care for a minimum of 12 hours or until clinical signs resolve.
Access of inhibitory neurosteroids to the NMDA receptor
Authors: Borovska Jirina , Vyklicky Vojtech , Stastna Eva , Kapras Vojtech , Slavikova Barbora , Horak Martin , Chodounska Hana , Vyklicky Jr Ladislav
Published: December 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

NMDA receptors are glutamatergic ionotropic receptors involved in excitatory neurotransmission, synaptic plasticity and excitotoxic cell death. Many allosteric modulators can influence the activity of these receptors positively or negatively, with behavioural consequences. 20‐Oxo‐5β‐pregnan‐3α‐yl sulphate (pregnanolone sulphate; PA‐6) is an endogenous neurosteroid that inhibits NMDA receptors and is neuroprotective. We tested the hypothesis that the interaction of PA‐6 with the plasma membrane is critical for its inhibitory effect at NMDA receptors.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Electrophysiological recordings and live microscopy were performed on heterologous HEK293 cells expressing GluN1/GluN2B receptors and cultured rat hippocampal neurons.

KEY RESULTS

Our experiments showed that the kinetics of the steroid inhibition were slow and not typical of drug‐receptor interaction in an aqueous solution. In addition, the recovery from steroid inhibition was accelerated by β‐ and γ‐cyclodextrin. Values of IC50 assessed for novel synthetic C3 analogues of PA‐6 differed by more than 30‐fold and were positively correlated with the lipophilicity of the PA‐6 analogues. Finally, the onset of inhibition induced by C3 analogues of PA‐6 ranged from use‐dependent to use‐independent. The onset and offset of cell staining by fluorescent analogues of PA‐6 were slower than those of steroid‐induced inhibition of current responses mediated by NMDA receptors.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

We conclude that steroid accumulation in the plasma membrane is the route by which it accesses a binding site on the NMDA receptor. Thus, our results provide a possible structural framework for pharmacologically targeting the transmembrane domains of the receptor.
Verapamil as an antiarrhythmic agent in congestive heart failure: hopping from rabbit to human?
Authors: Stams Thom RG , Bourgonje Vincent JA , Vos Marc A , van der Heyden Marcel AG
Published: December 2011

Repolarization‐dependent cardiac arrhythmias only arise in hearts facing multiple ‘challenges’ affecting its so‐called repolarization reserve. Congestive heart failure (CHF) is one such challenge frequently observed in humans and is accompanied by altered calcium handling within the contractile heart cell. This raises the question as to whether or not the well‐known calcium channel antagonist verapamil acts as an antiarrhythmic drug in this setting, as seen in arrhythmia models without CHF. According to the study of Milberg et al. in this issue of BJP, the answer is yes. The results of this study, using a rabbit CHF model, raise important questions. First, given that the model combines CHF with a number of other interventions that predispose towards arrhythmia, will similar conclusions be reached in a setting where CHF is a more prominent proarrhythmic challenge; second, what is the extent to which other effects of calcium channel block would limit the clinical viability of this pharmacological approach in CHF? In vivo studies in large animal CHF models are now required to further explore this interesting, but complex, approach to the treatment of arrhythmia.

LINKED ARTICLE This article is a commentary on Milberg et al., pp. 557–568 of this issue. To view this paper visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2011.01721.x
Surveying and modelling the main spire of Milan Cathedral using multiple data sources
Authors: Fassi Francesco , Achille Cristiana , Fregonese Luigi
Published: December 2011

This paper presents a possible way of surveying and modelling very complex architecture, integrating different instrumentation and modelling methods. In particular, it aims to draw attention to a possible measurement and data processing procedure allowing the rapid collection and post‐processing of data in order to extract classical architectural products such as sections and profiles, and to build complete, accurate 3D models. The need is to structure a multiple data source procedure within a five‐year project (still in progress) to survey and model the main spire of Milan Cathedral three‐dimensionally. The spire is a very complex object and, for this reason, provides a really useful, challenging field test for new 3D survey technologies and, in particular, for integrating a variety of modelling methodologies. The paper describes survey workflow and processing steps, focusing on problems and justifying key choices.
Review of Geometric and Radiometric Analyses of Paintings
Authors: Remondino Fabio , Rizzi Alessandro , Barazzetti Luigi , Scaioni Marco , Fassi Francesco , Brumana Raffaella , Pelagotti Anna
Published: December 2011

This paper presents an overview of a number of diagnostic campaigns carried out to assess the conservation state of paintings. The specific characteristics required in cultural heritage applications have been investigated and are reported, where two main fields are considered: radiometric analyses using multispectral images and 3D surveying for geometric deformation analysis by means of photogrammetry and laser scanning. The activities described were accomplished in interdisciplinary teams, composed of photogrammetrists, art‐historians, restorers and experts of non‐destructive diagnostic techniques.
Ethical issues: The multi‐centre low‐risk ethics/governance review process and AMOSS
Authors: Vaughan Geraldine , Pollock Wendy , Peek Michael J. , Knight Marian , Ellwood David , Homer Caroline S. , Pulver Lisa Jackson , McLintock Claire , Ho Maria T. , Sullivan Elizabeth A.
Published: December 2011

Background:  The Australasian Maternity Outcomes Surveillance System (AMOSS) conducts surveillance and research of rare and serious conditions in pregnancy. This multi‐centre population health study is considered low risk with minimal ethical impact.

Objective:  To describe the ethics/governance review pathway undertaken by AMOSS.

Method:  Prospective, descriptive study during 2009–2011 of the governance/ethical review processes required to gain approval for Australian and New Zealand (ANZ) maternity units with more than 50 births per year (n = 303) to participate in AMOSS.

Results:  Review processes ranged from a single application for 24 NZ sites, a single application for eligible hospitals in two Australian states, full Health Research Ethics Committee (HREC) applications for individual hospitals, through simple letters of support. As of September 2011, 46 full/expedited ethics applications, 131 site governance applications and 136 letters of support requests were made over 33 months, involving an estimated 3261 hours by AMOSS staff/investigators, and an associated resource burden by participating sites, to obtain approval to receive nonidentifiable data from 291 hospitals.

Conclusion:  The AMOSS research system provides an important resource to enhance knowledge of conditions that cause rare and serious maternal morbidity. Yet the highly variable ethical approval processes required to implement this study have been excessively repetitive and burdensome. This process jeopardises timely, efficient research project implementation, without corresponding benefits to research participants. The resource burden to establish research governance for AMOSS confirms the urgent need for the Harmonisation of Multi‐centre Ethical Review (HoMER) to further streamline ethics/governance review processes for multi‐centre research.
Hypercalcaemia due to parathyroid carcinoma presenting in the third trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Paul Ryan G. , Elston Marianne S. , Gill Anthony J. , Marsh Deborah , Beer Ian , Wolmarans Louise , Conaglen John V. , Meyer-Rochow Goswin Y.
Published: December 2011

Primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT) in pregnancy may be associated with significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Medical management of pHPT in pregnancy is limited, and surgery is the only definitive therapeutic option. The ideal timing for surgery is mid‐second trimester, but surgery may also be safely performed in the third trimester. Delayed parathyroid surgery may result in a hypercalcaemic crisis postpartum owing to loss of active placental calcium transfer. We present a case of parathyroid carcinoma in pregnancy presenting with pre‐eclampsia at 32 weeks’ gestation.
COMPARISON OF METHODS TO DETECT ALLELOPATHIC EFFECTS OF SUBMERGED MACROPHYTES ON GREEN ALGAE1
Authors: Hilt (nee Körner) Sabine , Beutler Eike , Bauer Nadine
Published: December 2011

Detecting allelopathic inhibition of phytoplankton by submerged macrophytes in an ecologically meaningful way is not easy. Multiple‐approach investigations from a laboratory scale to the ecosystem level have been recommended to overcome the shortcomings of individual methods. Whether results of different methods are qualitatively or quantitatively comparable has not yet been tested. Here, we compare the sensitivity of the green algae Desmodesmus subspicatus (Chodat) E. Hegewald et Ant. Schmidt and Stigeoclonium helveticum Vischer to the allelopathic effect of the submerged macrophyte Myriophyllum verticillatum L. The following three approaches were used: (i) coincubation of algae in dialysis membrane tubes in a lake inside and outside a M. verticillatum stand, (ii) coincubation of algae in dialysis membrane tubes in aquaria with and without M. verticillatum, and (iii) single additions of tannic acid (TA), an allelopathically active polyphenol present in this macrophyte, to the algae cultures. For each method, fluorescence‐based (chl a, PSII activity) and particle‐based (cell count, biovolume) parameters were compared after 48 h of incubation. Results revealed quantitative and qualitative differences between methods. Algae incubated in dialysis membrane tubes in aquaria showed a strong decrease in all parameters under the influence of macrophytes. In situ measurements were influenced by adverse growth conditions for the test algae and only detected significant reductions for biovolume. Single additions of TA induced a strong reduction of fluorescence‐based parameters similar to aquarium results, but an increase in the cell count. Even the qualitative transfer of laboratory results to field conditions thus requires caution and a proper selection of parameters.
PHOTOPHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSES OF FRAGILARIOPSIS CYLINDRUS (BACILLARIOPHYCEAE) TO NITROGEN DEPLETION AT TWO TEMPERATURES1
Authors: Petrou Katherina , Kranz Sven A. , Doblin Martina A. , Ralph Peter J.
Published: December 2011

The photosynthetic efficiency and photoprotective capacity of the sea‐ice diatom, Fragilariopsis cylindrus (Grunow) W. Krieg., grown in a matrix of nitrogen repletion and depletion at two different temperatures (−1°C and +6°C) was investigated. Temperature showed no significant effect on photosynthetic efficiency or photoprotection in F. cylindrus. Cultures under nitrogen depletion showed enhanced photoprotective capacity with an increase in nonphotochemical quenching (NPQ) when compared with nitrogen‐replete cultures. This phenomenon was achieved at no apparent cost to the photosynthetic efficiency of PSII (FV/FM). Nitrogen depletion yielded a partially reduced electron transport chain in which maximum fluorescence (FM) could only be obtained by adding 3‐(3,4‐dichlorophenyl)‐1,1‐dimethylurea (DCMU). reoxidation curves showed the presence of QB nonreducing PSII centers under nitrogen depletion. Fast induction curves (FICs) and electron transport rates (ETRs) revealed slowing of the electrons transferred from the primary (QA) to the secondary (QB) quinone electron acceptors of PSII. The data presented show that nitrogen depletion in F. cylindrus leads to the formation of QB nonreducing PSII centers within the photosystem. On a physiological level, the formation of QB nonreducing PSII centers in F. cylindrus provides the cell with protection against photoinhibition by facilitating the rapid induction of NPQ. This strategy provides an important ecological advantage, especially during the Antarctic spring, maintaining photosynthetic efficiency under high light and nutrient‐limiting conditions.
Social Characteristics and Health Status of Exceptionally Long‐Lived Americans in the Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Ailshire Jennifer A. , Beltrán‐Sánchez Hiram , Crimmins Eileen M.
Published: December 2011

Objectives

To characterize the social characteristics and physical, functional, mental, and cognitive health of exceptional survivors in the United States and how the experience of exceptional longevity differs according to social status.

Design

Nationally representative longitudinal study of older Americans.

Setting

United States.

Participants

One thousand six hundred forty‐nine men and women born from 1900 to 1911 from the Health and Retirement Study: 1,424 nonsurvivors who died before reaching the age of 97 and 225 exceptional survivors who survived to age 97 and older.

Measurements

Self‐reported data on sociodemographic characteristics, social environment, physical and mental health, and physical and cognitive function.

Results

At baseline, exceptional survivors were more likely to live independently and had fewer diseases, better mental health, and better physical and cognitive function than those who did not survive to age 97. Exceptional survivors experienced declines from baseline in all health domains upon reaching 97 years of age, but between one‐fifth and one‐third of exceptional survivors remained disease free, with no functional limitations or depressive symptoms, and one‐fifth retained high cognitive function. Of exceptional survivors, men were healthier than women, and whites were generally healthier than nonwhites. Highly educated exceptional survivors had better cognitive function than their less‐educated counterparts.

Conclusion

On average, exceptional survivors are relatively healthy and high functioning for most of their lives and experience health declines only upon reaching maximum longevity. Heterogeneity in the population of exceptionally old adults indicates that, although many individuals reach maximum longevity in a state of poor health and functioning, a considerable portion of exceptional survivors remain healthy and high‐functioning even in very old age.
Inflammatory Cytokine Levels and Depressive Symptoms in Older Women in the Year After Hip Fracture: Findings from the Baltimore Hip Studies
Authors: Matheny Maya E. , Miller Ram R. , Shardell Michelle D. , Hawkes William G. , Lenze Eric J. , Magaziner Jay , Orwig Denise L.
Published: December 2011

Objectives

To determine whether interleukin (IL)‐6 or soluble tumor necrosis factor alpha receptor 1 (sTNF‐αR1) is associated with depressive symptoms in the year after hip fracture.

Design

Prospective cohort.

Setting

Three Baltimore‐area hospitals.

Participants

Community‐dwelling women aged 65 and older admitted with a new, nonpathological fracture of the proximal femur (N = 134).

Measurements

Two, 6, and 12 months after fracture, serum was analyzed for IL‐6 and sTNF‐αR1, and depressive symptoms were measured using the 15‐item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Generalized estimating equations were used to model the longitudinal relationship between IL‐6, sTNF‐αR1, and GDS score. Whether lower extremity function, as measured according to the Lower Extremity Gain Scale (LEGS), explained the relationship between IL‐6, sTNF‐αR1, and GDS score was also examined.

Results

Participants in the highest categories of IL‐6 (≥5.14 pg/mL) and sTNF‐αR1 (≥2,421 pg/mL) had the highest GDS scores in the year after fracture (P = .09 for both). Twelve months after fracture, those in the highest IL‐6 and sTNF‐αR1 categories had GDS scores that were on average 1.9 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.4–3.4, P = .01) and 1.4 (95% CI = −0.1–3.0, P = .07) points higher than those in the lowest category, respectively. Adjusting for LEGS score, the mean difference in GDS scores for highest versus lowest IL‐6 categories was 1.6 (95% CI = 0.2–3.0, P = .02) points at 12 months.

Conclusion

Results from these exploratory analyses support a role for inflammation in the pathophysiology of depressive symptoms after hip fracture. Depressive symptoms in the context of high cytokine levels may represent a sickness syndrome that is chronic in some individuals. Further research should establish the cause and effect of this relationship, as well as long‐term correlates.
First Report of the Photosynthetic Dinoflagellate Genus Azadinium in the Pacific Ocean: Morphology and Molecular Characterization of Azadinium cf. poporum
Authors: Potvin Éric , Jeong Hae Jin , Kang Nam Seon , Tillmann Urban , Krock Bernd
Published: December 2011

A strain of a dinoflagellate belonging to the genus Azadinium was obtained by the incubation of sediments collected from Shiwha Bay, Korea. This report of the genus Azadinium is the first outside of northern Europe and furthermore from the Pacific Ocean. The diagnostic morphological features of the isolate very closely resemble the recently described species Azadinium poporum isolated from the North Sea. However, the shape of the 3′ apical plate and the occasional morphological variations unreported from A. poporum bring minor distinctions between strains from different locations. The DNA sequences of small subunit, ITS, and large subunit (LSU) rDNA differed by 0.2%, 2.6%, and 3.6%, respectively, from those of A. poporum, whereas the COI gene was identical to those found in all strains of Azadinium. Phylogenetic analyses of the ribosomal DNA regions generally positioned the Korean strain as a sister taxon of A. poporum. However, the Korean isolate tends to occupy a basal position within Azadinium species with ITS rDNA and LSU rDNA. Using liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry, no known azaspiracids were detected. The slight but discernible morphological differences, the distinct rDNA sequences, and the tendency of the Korean strain to diverge phylogenetically based on ITS rDNA and LSU rDNA from A. poporum do not enable us to clearly assign the isolate to A. poporum. However, these characteristics do not allow us to classify it as a distinct species, and it is therefore designated as Azadinium cf. poporum. The examination of more strains to find more diagnostic characteristics might enable the attribution of this material to a well‐defined taxonomic position.
Anti pruritic effects of topical crotamiton, capsaicin, and a corticosteroid on pruritogen‐induced scratching behavior
Authors: Sekine Rika , Satoh Takahiro , Takaoka Ayumi , Saeki Kazumi , Yokozeki Hiroo
Published: December 2011

Abstract:  Itch accompanies various skin diseases. As a number of mediators other than histamine can be involved in the itch sensation, H1 receptor antagonists are not necessarily effective in treating itch. External application of antipruritic drugs is occasionally used as an alternative therapy for pruritic skin conditions, such as pruritus on primary non‐diseased, non‐inflamed skin. Even so, the actual effects of these drugs on the itch sensation have yet to be studied in detail. To verify the antipruritic effects of crotamiton, capsaicin, and a corticosteroid on the itch sensation, we examined the inhibitory effects of these drugs on various pruritogen‐induced scratching behaviors in mice. Topical application of 10% crotamiton moderately inhibited histamine‐, serotonin‐, and PAR‐2 agonist‐induced scratching behaviors. Topical capsaicin (0.025%) also exerted a moderate suppressive effect on histamine‐, substance P‐, and PAR‐2 agonist‐induced itch responses. Notably, topical corticosteroid (0.05% clobetasol propionate) remarkably inhibited the scratching behaviors induced by all of the pruritogenic agents tested. Therapeutic effects of capsaicin on substance P‐induced pruritus did not seem to be mediated by desensitization of the TRPV1 (+) C fibers and/or by altered responsiveness of the mast cells. In addition, the antipruritic effects of crotamiton and corticosteroid appear to be, at least partly, associated with a TRPV1‐independent pathway. This study examined the itch responses to pruritogens and demonstrated the mode of action of the externally applied antipruritic drugs.
Craniofacial development and physiological state after early oral breathing in rats
Authors: Padzys Guy S. , Tankosic Christiane , Trabalon Marie , Martrette Jean‐Marc
Published: December 2011

Padzys GS, Tankosic C, Trabalon M, Martrette J‐M. Craniofacial development and physiological state after early oral breathing in rats.
 
Eur J Oral Sci 2012; 120: 21–28. © 2011 Eur J Oral Sci

In this study we determined whether craniofacial development in rats could be influenced by an early temporary (3 d) nasal obstruction associated with forced oral breathing. The rats were killed at specific time points after surgery. Plasma samples were taken for biochemical analyses, and cephalometric measurements were performed. Shortly after nasal obstruction, the vertical nasomaxillary complex and the longitudinal skull base proved to be smaller in both sexes of test rats compared with controls. This was maintained in male rats but not in female rats. In female rats, only the longitudinal skull base remained somewhat shorter as the animals grew older. Reversible nasal obstruction was further associated with reduced dimensions of the olfactory bulbs lasting into adulthood and an initial decrease in lung weight. One day after implementing nasal obstruction, basal corticosterone levels had increased (by over 1,000%) and stayed at a high level in female rats. In male rats, however, the corticosterone level seemed to return to normal by day 90. Oral breathing was also associated with a lower level of thyroid hormone, especially at the shorter term intervals in both sexes. We conclude that a 3‐d nasal obstruction period in young rats leads to long‐term hormonal changes and to craniofacial structural adaptation.
Predominant bacterial species in subgingival plaque in dogs
Authors: Dahlén G. , Charalampakis G. , Abrahamsson I. , Bengtsson L. , Falsen E.
Published: December 2011

Dahlén G, Charalampakis G, Abrahamsson I, Bengtsson L, Falsen E. Predominant bacterial species in subgingival plaque in dogs. J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 354–364. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Background and Objective:  The dog has been used extensively for experimental and microbiological studies on periodontitis and peri‐implantitis without detailed knowledge about the predominant flora of the subgingival plaque. This study was designed to evaluate the predominant cultivable bacterial species in dogs and compare them phenotypically and genotypically with corresponding human species.

Material and Methods:  Four subgingival samples were taken from two upper premolars in each of six Labrador retrievers. The samples from each dog were processed for anaerobic culture. From the samples of each dog, the five or six predominating bacteria based on colony morphology were selected and pure cultured. Each of the strains was characterized by Gram stain, anaerobic/aerobic growth and API‐ZYM test. Eighteen strains showing clear‐cut phenotypic differences were further classified based on DNA sequencing technology. Cross‐reactions of DNA probes from human and dog strains were also tested against a panel of both human and dog bacterial species.

Results:  Thirty‐one strains in the dogs were isolated and characterized. They represented 21 different species, of which six belonged to the genus Porphyromonas. No species was found consistently in the predominant flora of all six dogs. Porphyromonas crevioricanis and Fusobacterium canifelinum were the two most prevalent species in predominant flora in dogs. DNA probes from human and dog species cross‐reacted to some extent with related strains from humans and dogs; however, distinct exceptions were found.

Conclusion:  The predominant cultural subgingival flora in dogs shows great similarities with the subgingival bacteria from humans at the genus level, but distinct differences at the species level; however, a genetic relatedness could be disclosed for most strains investigated.
Astrovirus and digestive disorders in neonatal units
Authors: Chappé Céline , Minjolle Sophie , Dabadie Alain , Morel Laetitia , Colimon Ronald , Pladys Patrick
Published: December 2011

Aim:  To describe clinical signs associated with Human Astrovirus (HAstV) in stools in neonatal units.

Methods:  During 2005–2006, all stool virology performed for isolated digestive symptoms or suspicion of neonatal infection was tested for HAstV by an amplified enzyme‐linked immunoassay (IDEIA™ Astrovirus test, Dako Cytomation). Each newborn with a positive result (HAstV+ group) was retrospectively matched with the first following symptomatic newborn in the same care unit having a negative stool virology (HAstV− group). Clinical data were collected during two 3‐day periods (just after faecal samples collection and 1 week before) and compared within and between each group.

Results:  Human astrovirus was detected in faeces of 68 newborns [gestational age: 31.4(28.8–34) weeks] at a post‐natal age of 23 (15–42) days without seasonal dominance. Human astrovirus+ and HAstV− groups were comparable. Bloody stool (54.4% versus 14.7%, p < 0.01) and stage II–III necrotizing enterocolitis (20.6% versus 4.4%, p < 0.05) were more frequently observed in HAstV+ than in HAstV− group; these associations were confirmed by logistic regression analysis.

Conclusion:  This descriptive study argues for a possible association between HAstV and digestive symptoms in newborns specifically in preterm infants.
Cardiac evaluation in children with Prader–Willi syndrome
Authors: Marcus Karen A , van Alfen‐van der Velden Janiëlle AAEM , Otten Barto J , Weijers Gert , Yntema Helger G , de Korte Chris L , Kapusta Livia
Published: December 2011

Aim:  To assess cardiac anatomy and myocardial systolic function in children with Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS).

Methods:  Physical examination, electrocardiographic (ECG) recordings and transthoracic echocardiograms including two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2DSTE) were performed and evaluated in the Radboud University Hospital Nijmegen, the Netherlands. In total, 19 children diagnosed with PWS and 38 age‐matched control subjects underwent cardiac evaluation.

Results:  Abnormal ECG findings were detected in nine PWS patients. Echocardiography revealed mild structural cardiac abnormalities in two patients. Conventional echocardiographic findings did not indicate systolic left ventricular dysfunction, in contrast to 2DSTE examination. Global peak systolic strain (rate) measurements, in all three directions of contraction, were significantly lower in children with PWS (p < 0.001) compared with healthy age‐matched children. In two‐thirds of the patients, 2DSTE revealed abnormal systolic deformation (peak systolic strain as well as strain rate). T2P values in PWS patients were similar to control subject. Systolic myocardial function appears more affected in case of maternal uniparental disomy.

Conclusion:  Cardiac evaluation, including 2DSTE, detects frequent alterations in myocardial systolic function in children diagnosed with PWS, whose conventional echocardiographic findings did not indicate ventricular systolic dysfunction. Because cardiovascular morbidity and mortality is substantial in PWS, especially adults, we emphasize the need for cardiac assessment in PWS.
Identification of antimicrobial peptides from teleosts and anurans in expressed sequence tag databases using conserved signal sequences
Authors: Tessera Valentina , Guida Filomena , Juretić Davor , Tossi Alessandro
Published: December 2011

The problem of multidrug resistance requires the efficient and accurate identification of new classes of antimicrobial agents. Endogenous antimicrobial peptides produced by most organisms are a promising source of such molecules. We have exploited the high conservation of signal sequences in teleost and anuran antimicrobial peptides to search cDNA (expressed sequence tag) databases for likely candidates. Subject sequences were then analysed for the presence of potential antimicrobial peptides based on physicochemical properties (amphipathic helical structure, cationicity) and use of the D‐descriptor model to predict the therapeutic index (relation between the minimum inhibitory concentration and the concentration giving 50% haemolysis). This analysis also suggested mutations to probe the role of the primary structure in determining potency and selectivity. Selected sequences were chemically synthesized and the antimicrobial activity of the peptides was confirmed. In particular, a short (21‐residue) sequence, likely of sticklefish origin, showed potent activity and it was possible to tune the spectrum of action and/or selectivity by combining three directed mutations. Membrane permeabilization studies on both bacterial and host cells indicate that the mode of action was prevalently membranolytic. This method opens up the possibility for more effective searching of the vast and continuously growing expressed sequence tag databases for novel antimicrobial peptides, which are likely abundant, and the efficient identification of the most promising candidates among them.
Dynamical delays between starburst and AGN activity in galaxy nuclei
Authors: Hopkins Philip F.
Published: December 2011

Observations of active galactic nuclei (AGN) have suggested a possible delay between the peak of star formation (on some scale) and AGN activity. Inefficient fuelling (and/or feedback) from fast stellar winds has been invoked to explain this, but we argue this is unlikely in bright systems accreting primarily cold dense gas. We show that such a delay can arise even in bright quasars for purely dynamical reasons. If some large-scale process produces rapid inflow, smaller scales will quickly become gas dominated. As the gas density peaks, so does the star formation rate (SFR). However, gravitational torques which govern further inflow are relatively inefficient in gas-dominated systems; as more gas is turned into stars, the stars provide an efficient angular momentum sink allowing more rapid inflow. Moreover, the gas provided to the central regions in mergers or strong disc instabilities will typically be ∼100 times larger than that needed to fuel the black hole (BH); the system is effectively in the ‘infinite gas supply’ limit. BH growth can therefore continue for some time while the gas supply exhausts, until it has significantly depleted to the point where the BH is finally ‘starved’. Both of these effects act together with comparable magnitude, and mean that the peak of BH growth can lag the peak in the SFR measured at a given scale by a time-scale corresponding to the gas exhaustion time on that scale (∼10–100 local dynamical times). This predicts that the inferred delay will vary in a specific manner with the radius over which the SFR is measured. We discuss possible implications for the role of AGN feedback in suppressing star formation activity.
FLAVOR PROPERTIES OF PAN AND PITA BREADS MADE FROM RED AND WHITE HARD SPRING WHEATS
Authors: WATTS B. , RYLAND D. , MALCOLMSON L.J. , AMBALAMAATIL S. , ADAMS K.M. , LUKOW O.M.
Published: December 2011

Red and white wheat comparisons have not always shown consistent flavor differences. The objective was to compare flavor properties of whole wheat pan and pita breads made from white and red Canadian hard spring wheats. Flavor attributes were defined by trained panelists who marked intensities using 15‐cm line scales. Pan bread made from BW275 and Kanata had significantly lower wheat and wheaty aftertaste intensity than AC Domain (red) and RL4863. Pita bread from Kanata had significantly higher sweet intensity than RL4858, Snowbird and AC Domain (red). Principal component analysis accounted for 74–75% of the variance in both bread types. Biplots showed that some of the white wheat breads tended to be sweeter with less wheaty and bitter with wheaty, bitter and sour aftertastes. Red wheat breads tended to be less sweet, more wheaty and bitter with wheaty, bitter and sour aftertastes. Higher wheaty flavor intensity was associated with visually darker breads.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The study revealed that there were distinct flavor differences in pan bread and pita bread made from red and white wheats. The sweeter and milder flavor observed for some white wheats could be a marketing advantage for these newly developed wheats. In pan and pita bread products targeted to consumers that dislike the often wheaty and bitter taste of whole wheat products made from red wheat, white wheat derived whole wheat products with their milder taste may be more acceptable.