bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid loss of fat but not lean mass prior to chick provisioning supports the flight efficiency hypothesis in tree swallows
Authors: Boyle W. Alice , Winkler David W. , Guglielmo Christopher G.
Published: May 2012

1. Birds often lose body mass during nesting. Determining whether this mass loss represents an energetic cost of reproduction (energetic stress hypothesis), serves an adaptive function (flight efficiency hypothesis), or results from physiological processes that are neutral with respect to fitness (e.g. gonadal regression hypothesis) is important to interpreting variation in body mass and energy stores in the context of life‐history theory.

2. New quantitative magnetic resonance technology enables precise, repeated measurements of body composition (fat, lean, and water masses) on the same individuals, and we used this method to test a series of predictions to distinguish among competing hypotheses explaining mass loss in female tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor, Vieillot, 1808).

3. Tree swallows lost mass abruptly prior to the peak foraging demands of feeding chicks. Lean mass and fat mass losses varied independently, with small and gradual losses in lean mass during incubation and dramatic losses of fat immediately prior to and following hatching. Females lost some body water early in incubation, but did not lose more water when brood patches would be expected to atrophy. The period of greatest parental foraging costs was not associated with any significant changes in total body mass, lean mass, fat mass or water. Net change in body mass from early incubation until mid‐way through chick rearing was associated strongly with initial body mass and to a lesser degree, brood size.

4. These findings are consistent with the flight efficiency hypothesis. Females appear to facultatively modulate their endogenous energy stores to maximize insurance against bad weather and poor foraging opportunities during incubation, but then lower their body mass to maximize efficiency once chicks hatch, thereby reducing the costs of feeding nestlings.

5. This study corroborates results of a growing number of studies of small, insectivorous birds (especially cavity‐nesting species), suggesting that increases in mass prior to reproduction (and the subsequent loss of that mass) are likely best viewed as part of an adaptive suite of interrelated reproductive decisions made by females each year.
Periderm cells covering palatal shelves have tight junctions and their desquamation reduces the polarity of palatal shelf epithelial cells in palatogenesis
Authors: Yoshida Midori , Shimono Yohei , Togashi Hideru , Matsuzaki Kiyomi , Miyoshi Jun , Mizoguchi Akira , Komori Takahide , Takai Yoshimi
Published: May 2012

In palatogenesis, bilateral palatal shelves grow and fuse with each other to establish mesenchyme continuity across the horizontal palate. The palatal shelves are covered with the medial edge epithelium (MEE) in which most apical cells are periderm cells. We investigated localization and roles of tight junction (TJ) and adherens junction (AJ) components and an apical membrane marker in the MEE in palatogenesis. Immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy analyses revealed that TJs were located at the boundary between neighboring periderm cells, whereas AJ components were localized at the boundary between all epithelial cells in the MEE. Specifically, typical AJs were observed at the boundaries between neighboring periderm cells and between periderm cells and underlying epithelial cells where the signal for nectin‐1 was observed. The TGF‐β‐induced desquamation of periderm cells reduced the polarity of remaining epithelial cells as estimated by changes of epithelial cell morphology and the staining of the polarity marker and the AJ components. These less polarized epithelial cells then intermingled and finally disappeared at least partly by apoptosis. These results indicate that periderm cells covering growing palatal shelves have bona fide TJs and their desquamation reduces the polarity of palatal shelf epithelial cells in palatogenesis.
A tilted transversely isotropic slowness surface approximation
Authors: Stovas A. , Alkhalifah T.
Published: May 2012

The relation between vertical and horizontal slownesses, better known as the dispersion relation, for transversely isotropic media with a tilted symmetry axis (TTI) requires solving a quartic polynomial equation, which does not admit a practical explicit solution to be used, for example, in downward continuation. Using a combination of the perturbation theory with respect to the anelliptic parameter and Shanks transform to improve the accuracy of the expansion, we develop an explicit formula for the vertical slowness that is highly accurate for all practical purposes. It also reveals some insights into the anisotropy parameter dependency of the dispersion relation including the low impact that the anelliptic parameter has on the vertical placement of reflectors for a small tilt in the symmetry angle.
Study on the flavour of soybean cultivars by sensory analysis and electronic tongue
Authors: Da Silva Josemeyre , Prudencio Sandra , Carrão‐Panizzi Mercedes , Gregorut Camila , Fonseca Fernando , Mattoso Luiz
Published: May 2012

The scope of this study was to assess the sensory attributes of five Brazilian soybean cultivars genetically different (BRS), described as special soybean cultivars for human consumption (BRS 216, BRS 213 and BRS 267) and conventional (BRS 258 and BRS 133), by quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA), and verify the ability of the electronic tongue to discriminate the soybean cultivars according to its flavours. According to QDA, BRS 267 was characterised by increased grain size, more intense cream colour, sweet flavour, sweet and umami taste. BRS 133 showed a dark hilum colouring, cooked bean and rancid aroma, cooked bean and rancid, bitter and astringent attributes. BRS 216 presented smaller grain size, less intense cream colouring and a more rounded grain shape, while the BRS 258 showed a hard texture. BRS 213 was characterised by a neutral flavour. The electronic tongue was able to distinguish between the five soybean cultivars according to their different flavour attributes. Correlation analysis was made among chemical constituents of soybean (hexanal, linoleic and linolenic acid, isoflavones, sucrose and fructose, and glutamic acid and alanine), sensory attributes and electronic sensors. Sensory attributes had a significant correlation, in absolute value, P ≤ 0.05, with electronic tongue (r = 0.50–0.80) and chemical constituents of soybean grains (r = 0.51–0.98). Electronic tongue had a significant correlation (r = 0.50–0.94) with the chemical constituents. It can be used effectively to classify soybean cultivars.
Potential of non‐GMO biofortified pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) for increasing iron and zinc content and their estimated bioavailability during abrasive decortication
Authors: Hama Fatoumata , Icard‐Vernière Christèle , Guyot Jean‐Pierre , Rochette Isabelle , Diawara Bréhima , Mouquet‐Rivier Claire
Published: May 2012

Two non‐GMO biofortified and one traditional pearl millet varieties were compared in abrasive decortication studies to evaluate their potential for increasing iron and zinc content. The phytate‐to‐mineral ratios were used to estimate mineral bioavailability. Iron and zinc contents in the biofortified varieties Tabi and GB8735 were two to threefold higher than in the traditional variety. Iron content reached 7.2 and 6.7 mg per 100 g DM in the biofortified varieties, which corresponds to the target values of biofortification programs. Zinc content was, respectively, 5.6 and 4.1 mg per 100 g DM in the GB8735 and Tabi varieties. Because of the presence of phytate and other chelating factors that were only partially removed during decortication, there was no improvement in iron bioavailability in the biofortified varieties. But whatever extraction rate, phytate‐to‐zinc ratios ranged between 6 and 18; zinc absorption could be improved by using these biofortified varieties for food processing.
Extraction of saponin from Camellia oleifera cake and evaluation of its antioxidant activity
Authors: Hu Jie‐Lun , Nie Shao‐Ping , Huang Dan‐Fei , Li Chang , Xie Ming‐Yong
Published: May 2012

Response surface methodology was employed to optimise extraction conditions of saponins from Camellia oleifera cake. Optimal conditions were extraction at 82.2 °C for 3.3 h with an 8.6:1 ratio (mL g−1) of solvent to solid. The saponin extract was further extracted with n‐butanol, and nine saponins were found as the main components. The identification of these saponins was carried out by HPLC–ESI–MS, and their possible structures were given. Antioxidant activities of the saponins were evaluated in vitro by 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picryl‐hydrazyl (DPPH), 1, 2, 3‐phentriol self‐oxidation and metal chelating activity assays. IC50 value of each assay was 3866 ± 3, 4744 ± 2 and 2389 ± 2 μg mL−1, respectively. The effects of environmental factors on antioxidant activity of saponins from C. oleifera cake were studied for the first time. The antioxidant activity is pH dependent with 9.0 as the optimal pH and is also temperature independent.
Frog population viability under present and future climate conditions: a Bayesian state‐space approach
Authors: McCaffery R. , Solonen A. , Crone E.
Published: May 2012

1. World‐wide extinctions of amphibians are at the forefront of the biodiversity crisis, with climate change figuring prominently as a potential driver of continued amphibian decline. As in other taxa, changes in both the mean and variability of climate conditions may affect amphibian populations in complex, unpredictable ways. In western North America, climate models predict a reduced duration and extent of mountain snowpack and increased variability in precipitation, which may have consequences for amphibians inhabiting montane ecosystems.

2. We used Bayesian capture–recapture methods to estimate survival and transition probabilities in a high‐elevation population of the Columbia spotted frog (Rana luteiventris) over 10 years and related these rates to interannual variation in peak snowpack. Then, we forecasted frog population growth and viability under a range of scenarios with varying levels of change in mean and variance in snowpack.

3. Over a range of future scenarios, changes in mean snowpack had a greater effect on viability than changes in the variance of snowpack, with forecasts largely predicting an increase in population viability. Population models based on snowpack during our study period predicted a declining population.

4. Although mean conditions were more important for viability than variance, for a given mean snowpack depth, increases in variability could change a population from increasing to decreasing. Therefore, the influence of changing climate variability on populations should be accounted for in predictive models. The Bayesian modelling framework allows for the explicit characterization of uncertainty in parameter estimates and ecological forecasts, and thus provides a natural approach for examining relative contributions of mean and variability in climatic variables to population dynamics.

5. Longevity and heterogeneous habitat may contribute to the potential for this amphibian species to be resilient to increased climatic variation, and shorter‐lived species inhabiting homogeneous ecosystems may be more susceptible to increased variability in climate conditions.
Sapwood area drives growth in mountain conifer forests
Authors: Galván J. Diego , Camarero J. Julio , Sangüesa‐Barreda Gabriel , Alla Arben Q. , Gutiérrez Emilia
Published: May 2012

1. It is expected that climate warming will enhance tree growth of mountain conifer forests in cold regions. However, trees have shown unstable, age‐related and site‐dependent growth responses to climate throughout the past century, but information on the drivers controlling such responsiveness at the site and tree scales is lacking. We evaluated whether such changing growth responses are more influenced by site features, such as altitude, or by tree features, such as size and sapwood area.

2. We quantified the growth trends at the site and tree levels in IberianPinus uncinataforests using dendrochronology. Tree‐ring width was converted to basal area increment (BAI) to assess the relationships between growth and site and tree variables over three time periods (1901–1994, 1901–1947, 1948–1994) using structural equation models.

3. Trees were older at higher altitudes, and the amount of sapwood decreased as trees aged. BAI trends were lower in the period 1948–1994 than in the period 1901–1947, that is, tree growth is decelerating, despite BAI values of both periods showing the reverse pattern. Sapwood area and, to a minor extent, tree age were the main positive and negative drivers, respectively, controlling BAI during the 20th century, whereas altitude played a minor role.

4. Synthesis. Our results highlight the relevance of tree individual characteristics as the main drivers modulating growth responses to climate warming. We conclude that climate warming will have a lower effect on radial growth in slow‐growing high‐elevation trees than in fast‐growing low‐elevation trees, which produce a greater sapwood area. Trees may become relatively insensitive to climate as they age and reach a size‐related functional threshold linked to reduced sapwood production.
Recent population decline and selection shape diversity of taxol‐related genes
Authors: BURGARELLA C. , NAVASCUÉS M. , ZABAL‐AGUIRRE M. , BERGANZO E. , RIBA M. , MAYOL M. , VENDRAMIN G. G. , GONZÁLEZ‐MARTÍNEZ S. C.
Published: May 2012

Taxanes are defensive metabolites produced by Taxus species (yews) and used in anticancer therapies. Despite their medical interest, patterns of natural diversity in taxane‐related genes are unknown. We examined variation at five main genes of Taxus baccata in the Iberian Peninsula, a region where unique yew genetic resources are endangered. We looked at several gene features and applied complementary neutrality tests, including diversity/divergence tests, tests solely based on site frequency spectrum (SFS) and Zeng’s compound tests. To account for specific demography, microsatellite data were used to infer historical changes in population size based on an Approximate Bayesian Computation (ABC) approach. Polymorphism‐divergence tests pointed to positive selection for genes TBT and TAT and balancing selection for DBAT. In addition, neutrality tests based on SFS found that while a recent reduction in population size may explain most statistics’ values, selection may still be in action in genes TBT and DBAT, at least in some populations. Molecular signatures on taxol genes suggest the action of frequent selective waves with different direction or intensity, possibly related to varying adaptive pressures produced by the host–enemy co‐evolution on defence‐related genes. Such natural selection processes may have produced taxane variants still undiscovered.
Artefacts, biology and bias in museum collection research
Authors: WEHI PRISCILLA M. , WHAANGA HEMI , TREWICK STEVE A.
Published: May 2012

Museum collections are increasingly subjected to scientific scrutiny, including molecular, isotopic and trace‐element analyses. Recent advances have extended analyses from natural history specimens to historical artefacts. We highlight three areas of concern that can influence interpretation of data derived from museum collections: sampling issues associated with museum collection use, methods of analysis, and the value of cross‐referencing data with historical documents and data sets. We use a case study that focuses on kiwi (Apteryx spp.) feather samples from valuable 19th century Māori cloaks in New Zealand to show how sampling and analysis challenges need to be minimized by careful design. We argue that aligning historical records with scientific data generated from museum collections significantly improves data interpretation.
CodY orchestrates the expression of virulence determinants in emetic Bacillus cereus by impacting key regulatory circuits
Authors: Frenzel Elrike , Doll Viktoria , Pauthner Matthias , Lücking Genia , Scherer Siegfried , Ehling‐Schulz Monika
Published: May 2012

Bacillus cereus causes gastrointestinal diseases and local and systemic infections elicited by the depsipeptide cereulide, enterotoxins, phospholipases, cytolysins and proteases. The PlcR‐PapR quorum sensing system activates the expression of several virulence factors, whereas the Spo0A‐AbrB regulatory circuit partially controls the plasmid‐borne cereulide synthetase (ces) operon. Here, we show that CodY, a nutrient‐responsive regulator of Gram‐positive bacteria, has a profound effect on both regulatory systems, which have been assumed to operate independently of each other. Deletion of codY resulted in downregulation of virulence genes belonging to the PlcR regulon and a concomitant upregulation of the ces genes. CodY was found to be a repressor of the ces operon, but did not interact with the promoter regions of PlcR‐dependent virulence genes in vitro, suggesting an indirect regulation of the latter. Furthermore, CodY binds to the promoter of the immune inhibitor metalloprotease InhA1, demonstrating that CodY directly links B. cereus metabolism to virulence. In vivo studies using a Galleria mellonella infection model, showed that the codY mutant was substantially attenuated, highlighting the importance of CodY as a key regulator of pathogenicity. Our results demonstrate that CodY profoundly modulates the virulence of B. cereus, possibly controlling the development of pathogenic traits in suitable host environments.
Allelic diversity at the DLA‐88 locus in Golden Retriever and Boxer breeds is limited
Authors: Ross P. , Buntzman A. S. , Vincent B. G. , Grover E. N. , Gojanovich G. S. , Collins E. J. , Frelinger J. A. , Hess P. R.
Published: May 2012

In the dog, previous analyses of major histocompatibility complex class I genes suggest a single polymorphic locus, dog leukocyte antigen (DLA)‐88. While 51 alleles have been reported, estimates of prevalence have not been made. We hypothesized that, within a breed, DLA‐88 diversity would be restricted, and one or more dominant alleles could be identified. Accordingly, we determined allele usage in 47 Golden Retrievers and 39 Boxers. In each population, 10 alleles were found; 4 were shared. Seven novel alleles were identified. DLA‐88*05101 and *50801 predominated in Golden Retrievers, while most Boxers carried *03401. In these breeds, DLA‐88 polymorphisms are limited and largely non‐overlapping. The finding of highly prevalent alleles fulfills an important prerequisite for studying canine CD8+ T‐cell responses.
Functional linkage between N acquisition strategies and aeration capacities of hydrophytes for efficient oxygen consumption in roots
Authors: Nakamura Motoka , Nakamura Takatoshi , Tsuchiya Takayoshi , Noguchi Ko
Published: May 2012

We evaluated the specific strategies of hydrophytes for root O2consumption in relation to N acquisition and investigated whether the strategies varied depending on the aeration capacity. Aeration capacity of roots is an important factor for determining hypoxia tolerance in plants. However, some hydrophytes possessing quite different aeration capacities often co‐occur in wetlands, suggesting that root O2consumption also strongly affects hypoxia tolerance. We cultivatedPhragmites australiswith high aeration capacity andZizania latifoliawith low aeration capacity in hypoxic conditions with NHor NOtreatment and compared the growth, N uptake, N assimilation and root respiration between the two species. InZ. latifoliagrown with NHtreatment, high N uptake activity and restrained root growth led to sufficient N acquisition and decrease in whole‐root respiration rate. These characteristics consequently compensated for the low aeration capacity. In contrast, inP. australis, low N uptake activity was compensated by active root growth, but the whole‐root respiration rate was high. This high root respiration rate was allowed by the high aeration capacity. The O2consumption‐related traits of hydrophyte roots were closely correlated with N acquisition strategies, which consequently led to a compensational relationship with the root aeration capacity. It is likely that this functional linkage plays an important role as a core mechanism in the adaptation of plants to hypoxic soils.
Impact of pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis infection in kidney transplantation: a nationwide population‐based study in Taiwan
Authors: Ou S.‐M. , Liu C.‐J. , Teng C.‐J. , Lin Y.‐T. , Chang Y.‐S. , Chiang S.‐C. , Tzeng C.‐H. , Chen T.‐J.
Published: May 2012

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) has been reported to increase morbidity after kidney transplantation and pose a therapeutic challenge. However, population‐based research, specifically focused on the association between kidney transplantation and subsequent pulmonary or extrapulmonary TB, is lacking.

Methods

A nationwide population‐based study was conducted using Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database, which provided claims data belonging to kidney transplant recipients during 1997–2006. Multivariate analysis was used to identify independent risk factors for TB after kidney transplantation. Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis was used to assess the outcome of patients with TB.

Results

Among 4554 kidney transplant recipients over the 10‐year period, 109 (2.4%) patients with newly diagnosed TB were identified: 75 patients with only pulmonary involvement, and 34 with extrapulmonary spread. The incidence of kidney transplant recipients developing TB was 638 per 100,000 person‐years. The independent risk factors for post‐transplant TB included cyclosporine‐based immunosuppressant agents during the first year after kidney transplantation (odds ratio [OR]: 1.98, P = 0.001), hepatitis C infection (OR: 1.79, P = 0.024), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR: 1.50, P = 0.041). Kidney transplant recipients who developed TB had a lower 5‐year survival rate than those who did not (78.6% vs. 93.4%, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Kidney transplant recipients in Taiwan did have a high risk of TB infection, with high proportion of extrapulmonary spread. Physicians need to be vigilant in surveying for TB in kidney transplantation, especially in high‐risk patients.
Adverse events are common on the intensive care unit: results from a structured record review
Authors: NILSSON L. , PIHL A. , TÅGSJÖ M. , ERICSSON E.
Published: May 2012

Background

Intensive care is advanced and highly technical, and it is essential that, despite this, patient care remains safe and of high quality. Adverse events (AEs) are supposed to be reported to internal quality control systems by health‐care providers, but many are never reported. Patients on the intensive care unit (ICU) are at special risk for AEs. Our aim was to identify the incidence and characteristics of AEs in patients who died on the ICUduring a 2‐year period.

Methods

A structured record review according to the Global Trigger Tool (GTT) was used to review charts from patients cared for at the ICU of a middle‐sized Swedish hospital during 2007 and 2008 and who died during or immediately after ICU care. All identified AEs were scored according to severity and preventability.

Results

We reviewed 128 records, and 41 different AEs were identified in 25 patients (19.5%). Health care‐associated infections, hypoglycaemia, pressure sores and procedural complications were the most common harmful events. Twenty two (54%) of the AEs were classified as being avoidable. Two of the 41AEs were reported as complications according to the Swedish Intensive Care Registry, and one AE had been reported in the internal AE‐reporting system.

Conclusion

Almost one fifth of the patients who died on the ICU were subjected to harmful events. GTT has the advantage of identifying more patient injuries caused by AEs than the traditional AE‐reporting systems used on many ICUs.
Morphometrical Study of Bony Elements of the Forelimb Fetlock Joints in Horses
Authors: Alrtib A. M. , Philip C. J. , Abdunnabi A. H. , Davies H. M. S.
Published: May 2012

There are many reports describing fractures in the bony elements of the equine fetlock joint and a few of these discuss possible relationships of these fractures to the mechanical loading of these bones. The likelihood of fracture must be related to the size and shape of bones involved, but information concerning the normal range in size and shape of these bones in horses is lacking. This study aimed to identify morphometrical variations of these bones within different groups of horses. Right and left metacarpal, proximal phalangeal and proximal sesamoid bones were collected from 10 Thoroughbreds (TB), fiveStandardbreds (SB) and eightPonies (P) euthanized for non‐orthopaedic reasons. All bones were boiled, cleaned and dried. Dimensional parameters were measured using a custom‐built apparatus, calliper and plastic tape. The width and depth of the medial condyles ofMc3 were greater than the lateral condyles in all groups. The length to the lateral condyle was greater than the length to the medial condyle ofMc3, and the lengths of the lateral sides of theMc3 andP1 bones were greater than the lengths of the medial sides in both forelimbs of all groups. The lateral sesamoids were similar to, or larger than, the medial sesamoids in all dimensions. There were some morphometrical variations in the bony elements of the equine fetlock joints in all groups.
A case of unclassified multicystic biliary tumor with biliary adenofibroma features
Authors: Kai Keita , Yakabe Tomomi , Kohya Naohiko , Miyoshi Atsushi , Iwane Shinji , Mizuta Toshihiko , Miyazaki Kohji , Tokunaga Osamu
Published: May 2012

A 40‐year‐old Japanese man was admitted to our hospital for evaluation of upper abdominal pain. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed a well‐circumscribed multicystic mass measuring approximately 7 × 6 cm. The mass contained a solid lesion measuring 3 × 2 cm. Biopsy of a swollen cervical lymph node led to a diagnosis of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma. After initial chemotherapy for lymphoma, the multicystic mass was surgically resected. The tumor was composed of a multicystic lesion and a solid lesion. Histopathologic examination of the multicystic lesion revealed that the locules were lined by biliary epithelium, demonstrating various degrees of cytological atypia. The stroma was fibrous, and the tumor showed marked apocrine snouts. Part of the tumor showed papillary growth with strong cytological atypia. The solid lesion showed tubulocystic proliferation of tumor cells, with prominent apocrine snouts, embedded in dense and partially hyalinized fibrous stroma. The morphology of the solid part was quite similar to that of reported biliary adenofibroma. Despite lengthy discussion, an appropriate pathological diagnosis could not be found among the current classifications of biliary tumor. The tumor was finally diagnosed as unclassified multicystic biliary tumor with adenofibroma features.
Botulinum toxin injection for lower urinary tract dysfunction
Authors: Kuo Yue‐Chen , Kuo Hann‐Chorng
Published: May 2012

Botulinum toxin has been recently accepted as a novel treatment for lower urinary tract dysfunctions refractory to conventional treatment. Review of the clinical trials in recent years, botulinum toxin type A has been widely used in the urethra or urinary bladder to treat voiding dysfunction due to detrusor sphincter dyssynergia, incontinence due to neurogenic or idiopathic detrusor overactivity, sensory disorders such as bladder hypersensitivity, overactive bladder, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome. Intravesical botulinum toxin type A injection is effective in treatment of urinary incontinence due to detrusor overactivity in men and women, as well as in children. Currently botulinum toxin type A has also been applied to treat lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia in patients not suitable for surgery. This article reviewed the recent advances of botulinum toxin type A on lower urinary tract dysfunction.
Familial retinal detachment associated with COL2A1 exon 2 and FZD4 mutations
Authors: Edwards Thomas L , Burt Benjamin O , Black Graeme CM , Perveen Rahat , Kearns Lisa S , Staffieri Sandra E , Toomes Carmel , Buttery Robert G , Mackey David A
Published: May 2012

Abstract

Background:  To characterize the clinical and genetic abnormalities within two Australian pedigrees with high incidences of retinal detachment and visual disability.

Design:  Prospective review of two extended Australian pedigrees with high rates of retinal detachment.

Participants:  Twenty‐two family members from two extended Australian pedigrees with high rates of retinal detachment were examined.

Methods:  A full ophthalmic history and examination were performed, and DNA was analysed by linkage analysis and mutation screening.

Main Outcome Measures:  Characterization of a causative hereditary gene mutation in each family.

Results:  All affected family members of one pedigree carried a C192A COL2A1 exon 2 mutation. None of the affected family members had early‐onset arthritis, hearing abnormalities, abnormal clefting or facial features characteristic of classical Stickler syndrome. All affected members of the familial exudative vitreoretinopathy pedigree carried a 957delG FZD4 mutation.

Conclusions:  Patients with retinal detachment and a positive family history should be investigated for heritable conditions associated with retinal detachment such as Stickler syndrome and familial exudative vitreoretinopathy. The absence of non‐ocular features of Stickler syndrome should raise the possibility of mutations in exon 2 of COL2A1. Similarly, late‐onset familial exudative vitreoretinopathy may appear more like a rhegmatogenous detachment and not be correctly diagnosed. When a causative gene mutation is identified, cascade genetic screening of the family will facilitate genetic counselling and screening of high‐risk relatives, allowing targeted management of the pre‐detachment changes in affected patients.
Clinical trial assessing VSL#3 for the treatment of anterior resection syndrome
Authors: Stephens Jacqueline H. , Hewett Peter J.
Published: May 2012

Background:  Restoration of bowel continuity after a temporary loop ileostomy following rectal resection often produces impaired bowel function. The purpose of this clinical trial was to assess the efficacy of a probiotic, VSL#3 (VSL Pharmaceuticals Inc., Gaithersburg, MD, USA), in improving bowel function following ileostomy closure.

Methods:  Between March 2005 and April 2008, a prospective, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled randomized trial of a probiotic preparation was conducted across four South Australian hospitals. Sixty‐three patients who underwent a loop ileostomy reversal were randomized to receive 4‐week treatment of either probiotic therapy (n= 31) or placebo (n= 32). Bowel symptomology was collected through a patient‐completed bowel diary and the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI).

Results:  Completion rates of the 4‐week therapy regime were similar for both groups: 18 active versus 20 placebos. There was no statistically significant difference in the number of patients who withdrew or had adverse events in the two treatment groups. Reasons for patient withdrawal from the study were similar for both groups. Repeated measures analysis of variance showed no statistically significant difference between the GIQLI scores for the two treatment groups.

Conclusions:  The use of the probiotic preparation, VSL#3, did not alter the post‐operative bowel function of patients undergoing loop ileostomy reversal.
Tourniquet application only during cement fixation in total knee arthroplasty: a double‐blind, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mittal Rajat , Ko Victoria , Adie Sam , Naylor Justine , Dave Jaykar , Dave Chandrakant , Harris Ian A. , Hackett Danella , Ngo David , Dietsch Susan
Published: May 2012

Background:  The functional benefits of tourniquet application for short periods compared with standard duration applications during total knee arthroplasty surgery have not been well explored. We aimed to compare functional outcomes between tourniquet application of short duration (during cement fixation only) and tourniquet application of longer duration (from skin incision to just after cement fixation).

Methods:  We planned to randomize 230 patients to short and long duration groups. The primary outcome was Oxford Knee Score at 10 weeks post‐surgery. In‐hospital blood transfusion rate was also a primary safety measure. Serial measures of knee function were taken together with knee range, quadriceps lag and timed stair tests.

Results:  The trial was discontinued after randomization of 65 patients. Interim analysis indicated a higher risk of transfusion (odds ratio 7.38, P= 0.015) in the short duration group. No significant difference was observed in Oxford Knee Score at 10 weeks. There were no between‐group differences in rate of recovery up to 52 weeks for any outcome.

Conclusions:  Restricting tourniquet application to the period of cementing is associated with a significantly higher risk of transfusion. This approach is impractical if it is not offset by gains in functional recovery.
Formalin fixation in the ‘‐omics’ era: a primer for the surgeon‐scientist
Authors: Frankel Adam
Published: May 2012

Formalin is the most commonly used tissue fixative worldwide. While it offers excellent morphological preservation for routine histology, it has detrimental effects on nucleic acids. Most studies of nucleic acids have therefore used fresh frozen tissue, the collection and storage of which is resource intensive. The ability to use modern genomic, transcriptomic and epigenomic methods with nucleic acids derived from formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissues would allow enormous archives of routinely stored tissues (usually with well‐annotated clinical data) to be used for translational research. This paper outlines the effects of formalin on nucleic acids, describes ways of minimizing nucleic acid degradation and optimizing extraction, and reviews recent studies that have used contemporary techniques to analyse FFPE‐derived nucleic acids (with a focus on malignant tissue sources). Simple tips are also offered to ensure the utility of your institution's samples for future studies, and broadly applicable guidelines are listed for those contemplating their own study using FFPE‐derived material.
Anti‐tobacco mass media and socially disadvantaged groups: A systematic and methodological review
Authors: GUILLAUMIER ASHLEIGH , BONEVSKI BILLIE , PAUL CHRIS
Published: May 2012

Issues. Only a limited amount of research has been conducted to explore whether there are socioeconomic status differences in responses to mass media. However, the methodological quality of this evidence has not been assessed, limiting confidence in conclusions that can be drawn regarding study outcomes. A systematic review of the effectiveness of anti‐tobacco mass media campaigns with socially disadvantaged groups was conducted, and the methodological quality of included studies was assessed.

Approach. Medline, The Cochrane Library, PsycInfo, Embase and Web of Science were searched using MeSH and keywords for quantitative studies conducted in Western countries prior to March 2012. A methodological quality assessment and narrative analysis of included studies was undertaken.

Key Findings. Seventeen relevant studies (reported in 18 papers) were identified; however, weak study designs and selection bias were common characteristics, limiting strong conclusions about effectiveness. Using predominantly non‐cessation related outcome measures reviewed papers indicated mixed results for mass media tobacco control campaign effectiveness among various social groups. Most studies assessed mass media impact on low socioeconomic status groups rather than highly socially disadvantaged groups.

Implications. Methodological rigour of evaluations in this field must be improved to aid understanding regarding the effectiveness of mass media campaigns in driving cessation among disadvantaged groups.

Conclusion. The results of this review indicate a gap in methodologically rigorous research into the effectiveness of mass media campaigns among socially disadvantaged groups, particularly the highly disadvantaged.[Guillaumier A, Bonevski B, Paul C. Anti‐tobacco mass media and socially disadvantaged groups: A systematic and methodological review. Drug Alcohol Rev 2012;31:698–708]
Plant species loss from European semi‐natural grasslands following nutrient enrichment – is it nitrogen or is it phosphorus?
Authors: Ceulemans Tobias , Merckx Roel , Hens Maarten , Honnay Olivier
Published: May 2012

Aim Although many studies support the prevailing paradigm of nitrogen (N)‐driven biodiversity loss, some have argued that phosphorus (P) may be the main culprit. This questions the generality of the global threat through N enrichment. The major objective here was to quantify the relative importance of soil N and P in explaining patterns of plant species richness, under different levels of N and P limitation.

Location North‐western Europe.

Methods We collected soil, productivity and plant species data from 132 semi‐natural grasslands located along a gradient of nutrient availability and atmospheric N deposition. We used linear mixed models to investigate the relation between soil nutrients, acidity, limitation and productivity on one side, and indices for plant species richness on the other.

Results Mixed models explained between 38 and 50% of the total variation in species numbers, forbs and endangered species. Soil P was significantly negatively related to total species number, forbs and endangered species. Soil N was only significantly negatively related to number of forbs and endangered species. Compared with soil P, the explained variation attributed to soil N was between five‐ and twenty‐fold lower. P‐limited grasslands exhibited higher species richness, numbers of forbs and endangered species. Species richness and number of forbs decreased with lower soil acidity. N deposition was negatively related to the number of forbs and endangered species, as well as to soil acidity. Productivity was weakly positively related to soil P and negatively to species and forb numbers. We found no interaction factors between the explanatory variables.

Main conclusions P enrichment can present a greater threat to biodiversity than N enrichment in at least some terrestrial ecosystems. However, as N‐ and P‐driven species loss appeared independent, our results suggest that simultaneously reducing N and P inputs is a prerequisite for maintaining maximum plant diversity.
Conservation of phylogeographic lineages under climate change
Authors: D’Amen Manuela , Zimmermann Niklaus E. , Pearman Peter B.
Published: May 2012

Aim  We address the unexplored question of whether the lack of information on intra‐specific diversity inherent in species‐level niche modelling might bias evaluation of the conservation requirements of species and phylogeographic lineages under changing climates. We test for directional biases that might arise due to these methodological differences in ways of assessing risks from climate change.

Location  The African continent.

Methods  We identified from peer‐reviewed studies that used both nuclear and plastid markers the distribution of deep phylogeographic divisions within nine species of African mammals and their phylogeographic lineages. We fitted ecological niche models to describe currently suitable, occupied climates and to project the shift of suitable climate to two future time slices. We applied gap analysis to reveal potential changes in the protection of phylogeographic diversity owing to climatic shifts.

Results  We found that, within species, most phylogeographic lineages differ in the climates they experience and have substantial geographic separation. Models that do not distinguish these subspecific units often fail to identify potential risks of climate change to lineages. Modelled potential effects of climate change on the geographic extent of suitable climate vary in both direction and magnitude. Predictions of the persistence of suitable climate in current protected areas for the resident lineages differ on average by factor of 2 between species and lineage models.

Main conclusions  Our study develops an original synthetic approach by combining niche modelling, projected climate change, phylogeographic information and gap analysis. We clearly identify the potential benefits of using the new approach to evaluate risks to the conservation of intra‐specific genetic diversity that are posed by climate change. Our results suggest that prudent conservation strategies need to incorporate potential differences in climate tolerance among lineages when planning conservation measures for species confronted with environmental change.
THE NORMALIZED CES PRODUCTION FUNCTION: THEORY AND EMPIRICS
Authors: Klump Rainer , McAdam Peter , Willman Alpo
Published: May 2012

AbstractThe elasticity of substitution between capital and labor and, in turn, the direction of technical change are critical parameters in many fields of economics. Until recently, though, the application of production functions with specifically non‐unitary substitution elasticities (i.e., non‐Cobb–Douglas) was hampered by empirical and theoretical uncertainties. As recently revealed, ‘normalization’ of production‐technology systems holds out the promise of resolving many of those uncertainties. We survey and assess the intrinsic links between production (as conceptualized in a production function), factor substitution (as made most explicit in Constant Elasticity of Substitution functions) and normalization (defined by the fixing of baseline values for relevant variables). First, we recall how the normalized Constant Elasticity of Substitution function came into existence and what normalization implies for its formal properties. Then we deal with the key role of normalization in recent advances in the theory of business cycles and of economic growth. Next, we discuss the benefits normalization brings for empirical estimation and empirical growth research. Finally, we identify promising areas of future research.
AUTISM BEYOND PEDIATRICS: WHY BIOETHICISTS OUGHT TO RETHINK CONSENT IN LIGHT OF CHRONICITY AND GENETIC IDENTITY
Authors: PERRY ALEXANDRA
Published: May 2012

Autism is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder that presents unique challenges to bioethicists. In particular, bioethicists ought to reconsider pediatric consent in light of disparity between beliefs that are held about the disorder by parents and adults with autism. The neurodiverse community ought to be given some consideration in this debate, and, as such, there may be a role for autistic narratives in clarifying this problem.
Labour Adjustment Implications of Service Offshoring: Evidence from Canada
Authors: Gomez Rafael , Gunderson Morley , Morissette René
Published: May 2012

About one‐fifth of Canadian employees are in jobs that are vulnerable to service offshoring. Despite this figure, both theory and our empirical evidence (based on a variety of methodologies and datasets) suggest that the offshoring of business services is not likely to lead to large adverse employment effects. We also conclude that existing active labour market adjustment policies (e.g. increased labour market information, job search, mobility and training) developed for other adjustment pressures such as technological change and free‐trade in goods are just as appropriate (perhaps even more so) to deal with the consequences of service offshoring.
Business as a Pivotal Actor in the Politics of Training Reform: Insights from the Case of Germany
Authors: Busemeyer Marius R.
Published: May 2012

Often admired by international observers, the German dual training system has come under pressure in recent years because of a persistent lack in training slots for young people. The article addresses the question of how policy makers have reacted to the problems in the training market. Particular attention is paid to the formation of politico‐economic coalitions between state actors, business representatives and unions. On the basis of three case studies of recent reforms (or reform attempts), we identify two types of cross‐class coalitions: a conservative coalition that aims at maintaining the status quo of the firm‐based training regime and a segmentalist coalition promoting the gradual transformation of the system towards a less collective and more firm‐centred variety. In both kinds of politico‐economic coalitions, business actors play a pivotal role. The reason for the privileged position of business in the politics of training reform is, I argue, a politically constructed dependency of the state and unions on the continued co‐operation of business in the provision of training slots. In the conclusion, I discuss the implications of my findings for the debate on the dualization of co‐ordinated market economies.
Lights, Camera, Election: Celebrity, Performance and the 2010 UK General Election Leadership Debates
Authors: Drake Philip , Higgins Michael
Published: May 2012

The 2010 general election was the first in the UK in which a series of televised leaders’ debates were broadcast. This article takes forward research on mediated political performance and the relationship between celebrity and politics through an analysis of these debates. By discussing how the candidates perform ‘personality’, the article highlights the use of performance in constructing informality and a personalised audience address, contrasting these with where candidates engage in conventional political speech-making. The article also examines the strategic use of language, particularly where it is designed to align speakers with the public in opposition to the political establishment. The article argues that celebrity should not be viewed as an innate quality but instead as an interpretative set of frames, the terms of which are established through performance. The article concludes by reflecting upon the implications that can be drawn about the relationship between performance, framing and political celebrity.
Implementing Cross Compliance for Agriculture in the EU: Relational Agency, Power and Action in Different Socio‐Material Contexts
Authors: Juntti Meri
Published: May 2012

The cross compliance instrument is an EU wide policy mechanism that ties the payment of the remaining agricultural subsidies to compliance with environmental, animal welfare and food safety standards. Policy negotiations concerning the exact nature of the conditions in individual Member States draw on different environmental and economic circumstances and differing interpretations of farmers' role in the rural environment. This article reports on two case studies of decision‐making concerning the national cross compliance rules in England and Finland. Actor Network Theory is employed in order to understand how socio‐economic and environmental contexts combine to influence and constrain interviewed decision‐makers and the propositions they make regarding power and action in the implementation of the cross compliance mechanism. The approach uncovers some significant differences in the normative logic of how cross compliance is interpreted and delivered in the studied countries and highlights how ‘baseline environmental standards’ imply very different obligations for farmers in different member states. It is evident that a more flexible policy approach is needed to achieve a minimum level of environmental protection throughout the EU.