bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal and spatial variability of rosy apple aphid Dysaphis plantaginea populations: is there a role of the alternate host plant Plantago major?
Authors: Brown Amanda , Myers Judith H.
Published: June 2010

The rosy apple aphid Dysaphis plantaginea (Passerini) (Homoptera: Aphididae) is a pest of economic importance to the apple industry worldwide, particularly in organic apple orchards where no acceptable controls are available. In the Similkameen Valley of British Columbia, Canada, the rosy apple aphid population size varies widely between orchards and between years. To explain this variation, potential environmental correlates of aphid density were evaluated. The architecture of the alternate host was also evaluated for its effect on rosy apple aphid summer survival and reproduction.

The percentage of trees infested by rosy apple aphids among orchards was in the range 8–94% for trees having at least one cluster with more than ten aphids in 2007 and in the range 0–39% in 2008.

A general linear model correlating aphid densities to the environmental variables of abundance of the alternate host (plantain Plantago spp.), foliar nitrogen, tree age and planting density, and reduced by stepwise regression, indicated that foliar nitrogen and tree age explained 33% of the variation. Abundance of the summer, alternate food plant, plantain, was not related to later aphid densities on apple trees.

Plantain architecture, however, influenced aphid numbers and 25‐fold more aphids were found on low‐lying plantain leaves than on more upright leaves. Experimental manipulation of leaf angle and leaf size showed that significantly more aphids occurred on low angle, large leaves. Finally, mowing that encouraged low lying plants prior to spring aphid migration was associated with a four‐fold greater number of both winged and wingless aphids on the plantain.
Structural Change, the Social Policy Environment and Female Employment in Turkey
Authors: Buğra Ayşe , Yakut‐Cakar Burcu
Published: June 2010

Since the 1970s, a series of demand and supply related changes have led to significant labour market transformations which have brought about a sustained increase in female employment throughout the world. While similar transformations have also been underway in Turkey, the country appears to be one of the rare exceptions to worldwide trends. During the last two decades both female labour force participation and female employment rates have declined at national level. In this article, two sets of questions are posed to explore the factors likely to influence female labour force participation. One set of questions pertains to the society‐specific dynamics of structural change in employment patterns in Turkey, with particular reference to the level and composition of employment in the service sector. A second set of questions is posed to examine labour market relations and the social policy environment in Turkey, and their impact on the demand for and supply of female labour. Current changes in the prevailing policy environment are considered to highlight a certain contradiction in the attitudes of decision makers who seem to be faced with a trade‐off between continuing adherence to conservative patriarchal values and the objectives of increasing labour force participation and combating poverty.
Post‐Conflict Ambon: Forced Migration and the Ethno‐Territorial Effects of Customary Tenure
Authors: Adam Jeroen
Published: June 2010

In post‐conflict contexts characterized by large‐scale migration and increasing levels of legal pluralism, customary land tenure risks being deployed as a tool of ethno‐territorialization in which displaced communities are denied return and secure land rights. This thesis will be illustrated through a case study of the Indonesian island of Ambon where a recognition of customary tenure — also called adat — was initiated in 2005 at the end of a high‐intensity conflict between Christians and Muslims. Although a system of land tenure providing multiple forms of social security for the indigenous in‐group, adat in Ambon also constitutes an arena of power in which populations considered as non‐indigenous to a fixed historical territory are pushed into an inferior legal position. The legal registration of customary tenure therefore tends to be deployed to settle long‐standing land contests with a growing migrant community, hereby legally enforcing some of the forced expulsions that were brought about by the recent communal violence.
Child Labour in African Artisanal Mining Communities: Experiences from Northern Ghana
Authors: Hilson Gavin
Published: June 2010

The issue of child labour in the artisanal and small‐scale mining (ASM) economy is attracting significant attention worldwide. This article critically examines this ‘problem’ in the context of sub‐Saharan Africa, where a lack of formal sector employment opportunities and/or the need to provide financial support to their impoverished families has led tens of thousands of children to take up work in this industry. The article begins by engaging with the main debates on child labour in an attempt to explain why young boys and girls elect to pursue arduous work in ASM camps across the region. The remainder of the article uses the Ghana experience to further articulate the challenges associated with eradicating child labour at ASM camps, drawing upon recent fieldwork undertaken in Talensi‐Nabdam District, Upper East Region. Overall, the issue of child labour in African ASM communities has been diagnosed far too superficially, and until donor agencies and host governments fully come to grips with the underlying causes of the poverty responsible for its existence, it will continue to burgeon.
The Measurement of Socio‐economic Gender Inequality Revisited
Authors: Beneria Lourdes , Permanyer Iñaki
Published: June 2010

The measurement of socio‐economic gender inequality has not received much attention from the development literature despite its great relevance and important policy implications. In this article we present two new indices to measure gender inequalities that overcome some of the limitations inherent in the UNDP gender‐related indices and other indices presented in the literature. The proposed new indices are conducive to exploring the extent to which gender gaps favour women and/or men, and to showing the contribution of the different subcomponents to the overall levels of gender inequality. Using UNDP data, our calculations suggest that the levels of gender inequality are mostly explained by differences in the earned‐income subcomponent and that the average difference between women's and men's achievement levels has been reduced by 12 per cent during the period 1995–2005.
Alopecia areata as another immune‐mediated disease developed in patients treated with tumour necrosis factor‐α blocker agents
Authors: Ferran M , Calvet J , Almirall M , Pujol RM , Maymó J
Published: June 2010

Background  Tumour necrosis factor antagonists (anti‐TNF‐α) have demonstrated the efficacy in different chronic immune inflammatory disorders. Within the spectrum of adverse events, autoimmune diseases have been observed, including cases of alopecia areata (AA).

Objectives  The objective of the study is to characterize AA developed during anti‐TNF‐α therapy.

Methods  We present five new cases and review all the cases reported in the literature (eleven).

Results  One third of the cases had a positive (personal or family) history of AA. Most of them presented with rapid extensive AA, usually involving the ophiasis area. Prognosis was usually poor, with slight response to treatments. In the cases where anti‐TNF‐α therapy was maintained, the course did not seem to change.

Conclusions  Although rare, AA developed during anti‐TNF‐α therapy might be more frequent than suggested by reports of isolated cases. Personal and family history of autoimmune disease might alert clinicians to their possible development or relapse once the anti‐TNF‐α therapy is started.
Impact of the small Indian mongoose on native amphibians and reptiles of the Adriatic islands, Croatia
Authors: Barun A. , Simberloff D. , Budinski I.
Published: June 2010

We studied impacts of the introduced small Indian mongoose Herpestes auropunctatus on the herpetofauna on six islands in the Adriatic Sea, Croatia, comparing abundances of reptiles and amphibians on three islands with the mongoose to those on three islands without the mongoose. We used four types of sampling surveys: distance‐constrained surveys, visual encounter surveys, special searches and accidental trapping. The horned viper Vipera ammodytes and Balkan green lizard Lacerta trilineata were absent from two mongoose‐infested islands (Korčula and Mljet) and rare on the third (Hvar); they were common only on the mongoose‐free island where they had historically been present (Brač). The European green toad was absent from one mongoose‐infested island, where it had historically been present and rare on the other two. It was common on two of the three mongoose‐free islands. Other herpetofaunal species were either very scarce or completely absent on the three mongoose‐infested islands. Most of these species also occur on the mainland but are already scarce there; some are strictly protected under Appendix II of the Berne Convention. The recent spread of the mongoose to the European mainland suggests the need for urgent control to protect vulnerable herpetofauna.
What does seed handling by the drill tell us about the ecological services of terrestrial cercopithecines in African forests?
Authors: Astaras C. , Waltert M.
Published: June 2010

The contribution of primates to the seed rain in tropical forests has been long recognized, and there is evidence that these services are not compensated for by other frugivores in the event of primate extirpations. Given the vulnerability of large rainforest frugivores to hunting and the crisis dimensions that commercial hunting is taking in much of tropical Africa, studies on the seed handling of terrestrial cercopithecine primates are especially timely and needed in order to understand their role in maintaining plant community dynamics. Unlike arboreal species, terrestrial primates handle seeds at the post‐dispersal stage of fruits and their populations are among the first to decline due to hunting pressure. We analyzed, for the first time, the year‐round seed handling of the drill Mandrillus leucophaeus, an endangered terrestrial primate, by examining feeding remains and feces collected over 3284 km of patrols in Korup National Park, Cameroon. Drills defecated intact 110 seeds of diverse plant, fruit and seed traits primarily during periods of fruit abundance, and increased their seed predation during the pronounced fruit‐scarce dry season. Considering the drill's diverse fruit diet, ground foraging, long day ranges and seed handling, we suggest that forest‐dwelling terrestrial cercopithecines differ in their impact on seed deposition patterns compared with sympatric arboreal primates. Our findings emphasize the need to better assess the impact of terrestrial cercopithecines on plant community dynamics in Africa, warn of potential ecological process disruptions in the event of their extirpation and make a case for rethinking primate conservation priorities so that they do not only reflect a species' dire population status but also the impact its loss would entail for the ecosystem.
Estimating the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus: a clinical prediction model based on patient characteristics and medical history
Authors: van Leeuwen M , Opmeer BC , Zweers EJK , van Ballegooie E , ter Brugge HG , de Valk HW , Visser GHA , Mol BWJ
Published: June 2010

Objective  To develop a clinical prediction rule that can help the clinician to identify women at high and low risk for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) early in pregnancy in order to improve the efficiency of GDM screening.

Design  We used data from a prospective cohort study to develop the clinical prediction rule.

Setting  The original cohort study was conducted in a university hospital in the Netherlands.

Population  Nine hundred and ninety‐five consecutive pregnant women underwent screening for GDM.

Methods  Using multiple logistic regression analysis, we constructed a model to estimate the probability of development of GDM from the medical history and patient characteristics. Receiver operating characteristics analysis and calibration were used to assess the accuracy of the model.

Main outcome measure  The development of a clinical prediction rule for GDM. We also evaluated the potential of the prediction rule to improve the efficiency of GDM screening.

Results  The probability of the development of GDM could be predicted from the ethnicity, family history, history of GDM and body mass index. The model had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.77 (95% CI 0.69–0.85) and calibration was good (Hosmer and Lemeshow test statistic, P = 0.25). If an oral glucose tolerance test was performed in all women with a predicted probability of 2% or more, 43% of all women would be tested and 75% of the women with GDM would be identified.

Conclusions  The use of a clinical prediction model is an accurate method to identify women at increased risk for GDM, and could be used to select women for additional testing for GDM.
Developing and testing of search filters for the new European Union Member States’ research
Authors: Radut Dan Silviu , Sanz‐Valero Javier
Published: June 2010

Background:  To develop and apply search filters retrieving the scientific output (SO) after 2000 focusing on Public Health (PH) of the new European Union (EU) Member States after the 2004 and 2007 enlargements.

Methods:  Twelve geographical filters (GFs) were designed and applied to retrieve references added since 2001 in medline (accessed through PubMed) and originated in the new EU countries. The PH area was accessed using Medical Subject Heading terms. The filters were evaluated through a manual check and the agreement/non‐agreement percentages were calculated.

Results:  A number of 99 912 articles revealing the total SO and 6502 articles focusing on PH were retrieved. More than 66% were published abroad and more than 80% in English. The evaluation revealed an average agreement percentage of 98.97%. The results were compared with those obtained by using simple search strategies.

Conclusions:  Twelve GFs applied to medline retrieved references belonging to twelve countries for a specific period of time. The evaluation of the GFs through the manual check demonstrated effectiveness of these filters. Complementary studies would be advisable to focus on the development of search filters to retrieve complete and accurate information.
The effects of CYP2D6 and CYP3A activities on the pharmacokinetics of immediate release oxycodone
Authors: Samer CF , Daali Y , Wagner M , Hopfgartner G , Eap CB , Rebsamen MC , Rossier MF , Hochstrasser D , Dayer P , Desmeules JA
Published: June 2010

Background and purpose: There is high interindividual variability in the activity of drug‐metabolizing enzymes catalysing the oxidation of oxycodone [cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 and 3A], due to genetic polymorphisms and/or drug–drug interactions. The effects of CYP2D6 and/or CYP3A activity modulation on the pharmacokinetics of oxycodone remains poorly explored.

Experimental approach: A randomized crossover double‐blind placebo‐controlled study was performed with 10 healthy volunteers genotyped for CYP2D6 [six extensive (EM), two deficient (PM/IM) and two ultrarapid metabolizers (UM)]. The volunteers randomly received on five different occasions: oxycodone 0.2 mg·kg−1and placebo; oxycodone and quinidine (CYP2D6 inhibitor); oxycodone and ketoconazole (CYP3A inhibitor); oxycodone and quinidine+ketoconazole; placebo. Blood samples for plasma concentrations of oxycodone and metabolites (oxymorphone, noroxycodone and noroxymorphone) were collected for 24 h after dosing. Phenotyping for CYP2D6 (with dextromethorphan) and CYP3A (with midazolam) were assessed at each session.

Key results: CYP2D6 activity was correlated with oxymorphone and noroxymorphone AUCs and Cmax(−0.71 < Spearman correlation coefficient ρs < −0.92). Oxymorphone Cmaxwas 62% and 75% lower in PM than EM and UM. Noroxymorphone Cmaxreduction was even more pronounced (90%). In UM, oxymorphone and noroxymorphone concentrations increased whereas noroxycodone exposure was halved. Blocking CYP2D6 (with quinidine) reduced oxymorphone and noroxymorphone Cmaxby 40% and 80%, and increased noroxycodone AUC∞by 70%. Blocking CYP3A4 (with ketoconazole) tripled oxymorphone AUC∞and reduced noroxycodone and noroxymorphone AUCs by 80%. Shunting to CYP2D6 pathway was observed after CYP3A4 inhibition.

Conclusions and implications: Drug–drug interactions via CYP2D6 and CYP3A affected oxycodone pharmacokinetics and its magnitude depended on CYP2D6 genotype.
Resveratrol inhibits cell growth in a human cholangiocarcinoma cell line
Authors: Roncoroni Leda , Elli Luca , Dolfini Ersilia , Erba Eugenio , Dogliotti Elena , Terrani Claudia , Doneda Luisa , Grimoldi Maria Grazia , Bardella Maria Teresa
Published: June 2010

Background/Aims: Cholangiocarcinoma is a devastating tumour with a poor prognosis. An efficient therapy is unavailable in unoperable patients and new drugs are widely sought for and required. Resveratrol (RES) is a natural molecule with a reported anticancer effect, evaluated on different tumour cell lines. We tested the efficacy of RES on a cholangiocarcinoma cell line for the first time.

Methods: We used the human SK‐ChA‐1 cell line, cultured in the classical two‐dimensional model and in the three‐dimensional spheroids. After RES exposure morphology, cell viability (colony‐forming assay), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and cancer antigen (CA) 19‐9 medium releases, cellular transglutaminase activity, karyotype and cell cycle were evaluated.

Results: Resveratrol inhibited cell growth in both the cell culture systems used (from −15 to −80% vs untreated controls) and induced a 40‐fold increase of LDH and ALP activities in the culture medium. Also, transglutaminase (TG) activity increased in the cell lysates, together with a cell cycle perturbation characterised by an accumulation in the G1/S phase. Karyotype and CA 19‐9 expression were not influenced by the treatment.

Conclusions: The observed cytotoxic effect of RES on the human cholangiocarcinoma SK‐ChA‐1 cell line cultured two‐ and three‐dimensionally suggests to further analyse its chemotherapic/chemopreventive possibilities for this kind of cancer.
Maternal sleep deprivation, sedentary lifestyle and cooking smoke: Risk factors for miscarriage: A case control study
Authors: SAMARAWEERA Yasindu , ABEYSENA Chrishantha
Published: June 2010

Aims:  To determine risk factors for miscarriage.

Methods:  A case control study was carried out at the gynaecological wards and antenatal clinics of the De Soysa Maternity Hospital in Sri Lanka. A case was defined as that of mothers with a confirmed diagnosis of partial or full expulsion of the fetus during the first 28 weeks of gestation. Controls comprised ante‐natal clinic attendees whose period of gestation was <28 weeks and carrying a viable fetus. Two hundred and thirty cases and 504 controls were selected. A pre‐tested interviewer‐administered questionnaire and modified life events inventory were used to gather data. Multivariate logistic regression was applied separately for first and second trimester miscarriages and the results were expressed as odds ratios (OR) and as 95% confidence intervals (95%CI).

Results:  Sleeping ≤8 h/day (OR:3.80, 95%CI:1.01–14.3) was found to be a risk factor for first trimester miscarriage controlling for the effect of period of gestation. Sleeping ≤8 h/day (OR:2.04, 95%CI:1.24–3.37), standing ≤3 h/day (OR:1.83, 95%CI:1.08–3.10), exposure to cooking smoke (OR:3.83, 95%CI:1.50–9.90) and physical trauma during the pregnancy (OR:43.2, 95%CI:4.55–411.4) were found to be risk factors for second trimester miscarriage controlling for the effect of period of gestation.

Conclusions:  Sleep deprivation, a sedentary lifestyle, exposure to cooking smoke and physical trauma during pregnancy were risk factors for miscarriage. Most of the risk factors are therefore modifiable.
First fungus gnats of genus Manota Williston (Diptera: Mycetophilidae) from Japan
Authors: HIPPA Heikki , KJÆRANDSEN Jostein
Published: June 2010

The genus Manota is recorded from Japan for the first time. Three new species, Manota satoyamanis, Manota indahae and Manota tunoae spp. nov., are described, based on specimens collected in an ecological sampling program of arthropods in the “satoyama” landscape of Ishikawa Prefecture. “Satoyama” represents the traditional rural landscape of Japan, which is characterized by a mosaic of secondary forests, plantations, ponds and rice paddy fields. The new species raise the number of Palearctic Manota species from five to eight.
Taxonomic review of the genusPseudosteganiaButler, 1881, with description of four new species and comments on its tribal placement in the Larentiinae (Lepidoptera: Geometridae)
Authors: HAN Hongxiang , STÜNING Dieter , XUE Dayong
Published: June 2010

The genusPseudosteganiaButler is revised. In addition to the two species known, four species are described as new:P. lijiangensissp. nov. from Yunnan Province,P. qinlingensissp. nov. from Gansu and Shaanxi Provinces,P. zhouisp. nov. from Sichuan Province (China) andP. burmaensissp. nov. from Burma (Myanmar); two species are newly combined withPseudostegania:P. distinctaria(Leech, 1897), comb. nov. andP. yargongaria(Oberthür, 1916), comb. nov. All the known species are redescribed and lectotypes are designated forP. defectata(Christoph, 1881),P. distinctariaandP. yargongaria. The generic characters, based on all species, are summarized. The tribal placement ofPseudosteganiais discussed. Illustrations of moths and genitalia are presented.
The Baltic Ice Lake in the southwestern Baltic: sequence‐, chrono‐ and biostratigraphy
Authors: JENSEN JØRN BO , BENNIKE OLE , WITKOWSKI ANDRZEJ , LEMKE WOLFRAM , KUIJPERS ANTOON
Published: June 2010

Jensen, J. B., Bennike, O., Witkowski, A., Lemke, W. & Kuijpers, A. 1997 (September): The Baltic Ice Lake in the southwestern Baltic: sequence‐, chrono‐ and biostratigraphy. Boreas, Vol. 26, pp. 217–236. Oslo. ISSN 0300–9483.

This multidisciplinary study focuses on late‐glacial deposits in the Mecklenburg Bay ‐Arkona Basin area. The sequence stratigraphical method has been used on shallow seismic and lithological data, in combination with biostratigraphical work and radiocarbon dating. Glacial‐till deposits underlie sediments from two Baltic Ice Lake phases. Varved clay deposits from the initial phase cover the deepest parts of the basins. A prograding delta is observed at the western margin of the Arkona Basin, prograding from the Darss Sill area. The delta system is possibly related to a highstand dated at 12.8 ka. A maximum transgression level around 20 m below present sea level (b.s.l.) is inferred, followed by a drop in water level and formation of lowstand features. The final ice lake phase is characterized by a new transgression. The transgression maximum as observed in the Mecklenburg Bay is represented by transgressive and highstand deltaic deposits. These also indicate a maximum shore level of 20 m b.s.l. The deltaic sediments that contain macroscopic plant remains and diatoms have yielded Younger Dryas ages. Mapping of the late‐glacial morphology of the Darss Sill area reveals a threshold at 23 to 24 m b.s.l. This means that the Baltic Ice Lake highstand phases inundated the Darss Sill, which implies that the westernmost extension of the Baltic Ice Lake reached as far as Kiel Bay. Forced regressive coastal deposits at the western margin of the Arkona Basin mark a lowstand level of around 40 m b.s.l. caused by the final drainage of the Baltic Ice Lake. The lowstand deposits predate lacustrine deposits from the Ancylus Lake, which date to approximately 9.6 ka BP.
Genetic Variation of the Ghrelin Signaling System in Females With Severe Alcohol Dependence
Authors: Landgren Sara , Jerlhag Elisabet , Hallman Jarmila , Oreland Lars , Lissner Lauren , Strandhagen Elisabeth , Thelle Dag S. , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Engel Jörgen A.
Published: June 2010

Introduction:  Central ghrelin signaling is required for the rewarding effects of alcohol in mice. Because ghrelin is implied in other addictive behaviors such as eating disorders and smoking, and because there is co‐morbidity between these disorders and alcohol dependence, the ghrelin signaling system could be involved in mediating reward in general. Furthermore, in humans, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and haplotypes of the pro‐ghrelin gene (GHRL) and the ghrelin receptor gene (GHSR) have previously been associated with increased alcohol consumption and increased body weight. Known gender differences in plasma ghrelin levels prompted us to investigate genetic variation of the ghrelin signaling system in females with severe alcohol dependence (n = 113) and in a selected control sample of female low‐consumers of alcohol from a large cohort study in southwest Sweden (n = 212).

Methods:  Six tag SNPs in the GHRL (rs696217, rs3491141, rs4684677, rs35680, rs42451, and rs26802) and four tag SNPs in the GHSR (rs495225, rs2232165, rs572169, and rs2948694) were genotyped in all individuals.

Results:  We found that one GHRL haplotype was associated with reports of paternal alcohol dependence as well as with reports of withdrawal symptoms in the female alcohol‐dependent group. Associations with 2 GHSR haplotypes and smoking were also shown. One of these haplotypes was also negatively associated with BMI in controls, while another haplotype was associated with having the early‐onset, more heredity‐driven, type 2 form of alcohol dependence in the patient group.

Conclusion:  Taken together, the genes encoding the ghrelin signaling system cannot be regarded as major susceptibility genes for female alcohol dependence, but is, however, involved in paternal heritability and may affect other reward‐ and energy‐related factors such as smoking and BMI.
Defective Translocation of PKCε in EtOH‐Induced Inhibition of Mg2+ Accumulation in Rat Hepatocytes
Authors: Torres Lisa M. , Konopnika Bocena , Berti‐Mattera Liliana N. , Liedtke Carole , Romani Andrea
Published: June 2010

Background:  Rats chronically fed ethanol for 3 weeks presented a marked decreased in total hepatic Mg2+ content and required approximately 12 days to restore Mg2+ homeostasis upon ethanol withdrawal. This study was aimed at investigating the mechanisms responsible for the EtOH‐induced delay.

Methods:  Hepatocytes from rats fed ethanol for 3 weeks (Lieber‐De Carli diet—chronic model), rats re‐fed a control diet for varying periods of time following ethanol withdrawal, and age‐matched control rats fed a liquid or a pellet diet were used. As acute models, hepatocytes from control animals or HepG2 cells were exposed to varying doses of ethanol in vitro for 8 minutes.

Results:  Hepatocytes from ethanol‐fed rats presented a marked inhibition of Mg2+ accumulation and a defective translocation of PKCε to the cell membrane. Upon ethanol withdrawal, 12 days were necessary for PKCε translocation and Mg2+ accumulation to return to normal levels. Exposure of control hepatocytes or HepG2 cells to a dose of ethanol as low as 0.01% for 8 minutes was already sufficient to inhibit Mg2+ accumulation and PKCε translocation for more than 60 minutes. Also in this model, recovery of Mg2+ accumulation was associated with restoration of PKCε translocation. The use of specific antisense in HepG2 cells confirmed the involvement of PKCε in modulating Mg2+ accumulation.

Conclusions:  Translocation of PKCε isoform to the hepatocyte membrane is essential for Mg2+ accumulation to occur. Both acute and chronic ethanol administrations inhibit Mg2+ accumulation by specifically altering PKCε translocation to the cell membrane.
Seeing the Other Side: Reducing Political Partisanship via Self‐Affirmation in the 2008 Presidential Election
Authors: Binning Kevin R. , Sherman David K. , Cohen Geoffrey L. , Heitland Kirsten
Published: June 2010

The 2008 presidential election brought the partisan divide between U.S. Republicans and Democrats to the forefront. In such contested situations, people who identify with the parties and their candidates experience pressure to adhere to their group's core beliefs and behaviors. This research hypothesized that providing individuals a chance to affirm their self‐integrity would relieve some of this pressure and facilitate greater openness to the opposition. In the 2 days prior to the 2008 election, Democrats (N= 50) and Republicans (N= 60) who affirmed their self‐integrity by writing about important personal values (versus those who did not self‐affirm) were less driven by partisan preferences in their evaluations of Barack Obama's debate performance, more favorable to opposition candidates, and more generally open to alternative viewpoints. Additionally, 10 days after the election, affirmed Republicans thought Obama would make a better president than did nonaffirmed Republicans. Discussion centers on how motivational factors can exacerbate—and attenuate—the divide between “red” and “blue” America.
Incidence and Electrophysiologic Properties of Dissociated Pulmonary Vein Activity Following Pulmonary Vein Isolation During Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: KABRA RAJESH , HEIST E. KEVIN , BARRETT CONOR D. , DONALDSON DAVID , BLENDEA DAN , BEINART ROY , KORUTH JACOB , SINGH SHELDON , RUSKIN JEREMY , MANSOUR MOUSSA
Published: June 2010

Dissociated PV Activity During AF Ablation. Introduction: Pulmonary veins (PV) play an important role in the arrhythmogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). Catheter‐based PV isolation is one of the primary treatments for symptomatic drug refractory AF. Following electrical isolation, isolated rhythms in the PV are encountered. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of postisolation PV activity and classify the different rhythms observed.

Methods and Results: This single center prospective study sought to assess the dissociated activity in the PVs following their isolation during AF ablation. In 100 consecutive patients (60 paroxysmal, 40 persistent) undergoing AF ablation, dissociated PV activity was recorded using a multielectrode mapping catheter following antral PV isolation. The dissociated PV activity was classified as (1) silent, (2) isolated ectopic beats, (3) ectopic rhythm, and (4) PV fibrillation. All the PVs were successfully isolated in all the patients. In 91 of 100 patients, there was dissociated activity in at least 1 isolated ipsilateral PV group. There was no significant difference in spontaneous PV activity between patients with paroxysmal and persistent AF (91.7% vs 90%, P = 1.0). Among the 200 isolated ipsilateral PV groups, 64 of 200 (32%) were silent, 86 of 200 (43%) demonstrated isolated ectopic beats, 41 of 200 (20.5%) had ectopic rhythms and 9 of 200 (4.5%) had PV fibrillation. The average cycle length of the PV ectopic rhythm was 2594 ± 966 ms (range 1193–4750 ms).

Conclusions: Following PV isolation, a majority of patients demonstrate dissociated activity in at least 1 PV. This finding was evident in patients with both paroxysmal and persistent AF. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1338‐1343, December 2010)
The Social Capital of Global Ties in Science: The Added Value of International Collaboration
Authors: Melkers Julia , Kiopa Agrita
Published: June 2010

The globalization of science is demonstrated in the mobility of scientists across national boundaries, the composition of the U.S. scientific workforce, and increased collaboration across national boundaries. While studies based on bibliometric and other data have been useful in identifying trends, collaborative clusters, and other patterns in international collaboration, they do not reveal the social dynamics behind those collaborations. This paper addresses the human and social capital factors that explain whether or not an academic researcher in science and engineering has an international collaborator. Further, through detailed statistical models, the analysis also addresses the factors that differentiate the specific resources derived from those international ties. Results show that non‐U.S. citizens are more likely to have close international collaborators, but that a range of factors explain this relationship. Further, results show that U.S. academic faculty mobilize different collaborative resources from international collaborators, versus their domestic collaborators.
International Co‐Authorship and Research Team Performance in Colombia
Authors: Ordóñez‐Matamoros Hector Gonzalo , Cozzens Susan E. , Garcia Margarita
Published: June 2010

This article examines the ways in which International Scientific Collaboration, as observed by the co‐authorship of journal articles written by local scientists and partners located overseas, affects the ability of research teams to produce bibliographic outputs and to contribute to local knowledge. A sample of 672 teams was randomly selected for the analyses. In addition, 20 interviews with experts and team members were administered to discuss models and results. Results show that co‐authoring with partners located overseas increases team output by nearly 40% and by between three and five bibliographic products. It also shows that a team's odds of involving Colombia in its research process are 2.2 times larger for those co‐authoring with a partner located overseas than for those that do not. Theoretical and policy implications are discussed.
Sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma presenting in the oropharynx
Authors: Gammon Bryan Leigh , Gleason Briana C. , Thomas Antoinette B. , Cibull Thomas Lee
Published: June 2010

Metastasis stemming from a distant malignancy is far less common than an oropharyngeal primary and represents only 1% of all oral neoplasms. The difficulty in diagnosing a metastasis in the oropharynx may be compounded if the lesion is poorly differentiated and bears little resemblance to the primary tumor. We present the case of synchronous metastatic renal cell carcinoma of the mandibular gingiva in a woman with sarcomatoid clear cell renal cell carcinoma. The metastatic lesion was poorly differentiated and lacked expression of the renal cell carcinoma (RCC) antigen. In contrast, PAX‐8 staining was strongly positive. This case serves to highlight the diagnostic difficulty posed by poorly differentiated lesions in the oropharynx and reinforces the sensitivity of the cell lineage‐specific transcription factor PAX‐8 in poorly differentiated RCC.

Gammon BL, Gleason BC, Thomas AB, Cibull TL. Sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma presenting in oropharynx.
Do biodiversity and human impact influence the introduction or establishment of alien mammals?
Authors: Jeschke Jonathan M. , Genovesi Piero
Published: June 2010

What determines the number of alien species in a given region? ‘Native biodiversity’ and ‘human impact’ are typical answers to this question. Indeed, studies comparing different regions have frequently found positive relationships between number of alien species and measures of both native biodiversity (e.g. the number of native species) and human impact (e.g. human population). These relationships are typically explained by biotic acceptance or resistance, i.e. by influence of native biodiversity and human impact on the second step of the invasion process, establishment. The first step of the invasion process, introduction, has often been ignored. Here we investigate whether relationships between number of alien mammals and native biodiversity or human impact in 43 European countries are mainly shaped by differences in number of introduced mammals or establishment success. Our results suggest that correlation between number of native and established mammals is spurious, as it is simply explainable by the fact that both quantities are linked to country area. We also demonstrate that countries with higher human impact host more alien mammals than other countries because they received more introductions than other countries. Differences in number of alien mammals cannot be explained by differences in establishment success. Our findings highlight importance of human activities and question, at least for mammals in Europe, importance of biotic acceptance and resistance.
Live high, train low at natural altitude
Authors: Stray‐Gundersen J. , Levine B. D.
Published: June 2010

For decades altitude training has been used by endurance athletes and coaches to enhance sea‐level performance. Whether altitude training does, in fact, enhance sea level performance and, if so, by what means has been the subject of a number of investigations. Data produced principally by Levine and Stray‐Gundersen have shown that living for 4 weeks at 2500 m, while performing the more intense training sessions near sea level will provide an average improvement in sea level endurance performance (duration of competition: 7–20 min) of approximately 1.5%, ranging from no improvement to 6% improvement. This benefit lasts for at least 3 weeks on return to sea level. Two mechanisms have been shown to be associated with improvement in performance. One is an increase in red cell mass (∼8%) that results in an improved maximal oxygen uptake (∼5%). That must be combined with maintenance of training velocities and oxygen flux to realize the improvement in subsequent sea level performance. We find no evidence of changes in running economy or markers of anaerobic energy utilization. Our results have been obtained in runners ranging from collegiate to elite. Wehrlin et al. have recently confirmed these results in elite orienteers. While there are no specific studies addressing the use of living high, training low in football players, it is likely that an improvement in maximal oxygen uptake, all other factors equal, would enhance football performance. This benefit must be weighed against the time away (4 weeks) from home and competition necessary to gain these benefits.
Psoriatic arthritis: a review
Authors: Amherd‐Hoekstra Anne , Näher Helmut , Lorenz Hanns‐Martin , Enk Alexander H.
Published: June 2010

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an immunologically triggered, chronic inflammatory arthropathy, which can have a lasting influence on the quality of life of affected individuals. An early diagnosis is essential in order to institute adequate therapy. Both dermatologists and rheumatologists should be involved in the diagnosis and management of the disorder.

Mild forms can be managed with NSAID and systemic corticosteroids. In acute forms with a confirmed diagnosis and oligo‐ to polyarticular involvement, disease‐modifying therapy with DMARD (Disease‐Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs) is indicated. New studies of PsA show that tumor necrosis factor (TNF) plays a central role in mediating inflammation. For this reason, TNF‐α antagonists have become more and more important as a second‐line therapy for PsA.
Secular trends of sports participation, sedentary activity and physical self‐perceptions in Hong Kong adolescents, 1995–2000
Authors: Mak Kwok‐Kei , Day Jeffrey R
Published: June 2010

Aim:  To assess the 5‐year secular changes in sports participation, sedentary activity, and physical self‐perceptions among Hong Kong adolescents.

Methods:  A total of 2932 and 5692 secondary students, aged 13–18 participated in the Health Related Behavior General (HRBG) Survey in 1995–1996 and 2000–2001, respectively. Extracurricular sports participation at least weekly or as a team member (none, 1–2 events, 3 or more events), sedentary activities (0–1 h/day, 2 h/day or more) including television/video watching and homework were assessed. Additionally, physical self‐perceptions, physical fitness (fit/very fit, moderately fit, unfit/very unfit) and body weight (intention to lose weight, satisfied, intention to gain weight) were reported. Secular trends of sports participation, and sedentary activities and physical self‐perceptions were assessed.

Results:  During the 5 years, the prevalence of sports participation (at least weekly or membership) decreased significantly in boys. The prevalence of both TV/video watching and homework for at least 2 h/day increased significantly in both sexes. The prevalence of being unfit/very unfit increased significantly in girls. No significant secular difference in weight perception was observed for both sexes.

Conclusions:  Sports participation decreased and sedentary activities increased during the 5‐year period. Physical self‐perceptions did not change significantly, except an increase in being physically unfit was observed in girls.
Evaluation of a New Titanium‐Zirconium Dental Implant: A Biomechanical and Histological Comparative Study in the Mini Pig
Authors: Gottlow Jan , Dard Michel , Kjellson Fred , Obrecht Marcel , Sennerby Lars
Published: June 2010

Background: Titanium zirconium alloy with 13–17% zirconium (TiZr1317) shows significantly better mechanical attributes than pure Ti with respect to elongation and fatigue strength. This material may be suitable for thin implants and implant components exposed to high mechanical constraints.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that TiZr1317 and Ti implants show comparable osseointegration and stability.

Materials and Methods: The mandibular premolars (P1, P2, P3) and the first molar (M1) in 12 adult miniature pigs were extracted 3 months prior to the study. Six specially designed implants made from Ti (commercially pure, Grade 4) or TiZr1317 (Roxolid®, Institut Straumann AG, Basel, Switzerland) with a hydrophilic sandblasted and acid‐etched (SLActive, Institut Straumann AG, Basel, Switzerland) surface were placed in each mandible; three standard implants modified for evaluation of removal torque (RT) in one side and three bone‐chamber implants for histologic observations in the contralateral side. RT tests were performed after 4 weeks when also the bone chamber implants and surrounding tissue were biopsied for histologic analyses in ground sections.

Results: The RT results indicated significantly higher stability (p = 0.013) for TiZr1317 (230.9 ± 22.4 Ncm) than for Ti implants (204.7 ± 24.0 Ncm). The histology showed similar osteoconductive properties for both implant types. Histomorphometric measurements showed a statistically significant higher (p = 0.023) bone area within the chamber for the TiZr1317 implants (45.5 ± 13.2%) than did the Ti implants (40.2 ± 15.2%). No difference was observed concerning the bone to implant contact between the groups with 72.3 ± 20.5% for Ti and 70.2 ± 17.3% for TiZr1317 implants.

Conclusion: It is concluded that the TiZr1317 implant with a hydrophilic sandblasted and acid‐etched surface showed similar or even stronger bone tissue responses than the Ti control implant
Short Communication: Use of a Diagnostic Software to Predict Bone Density and Implant Stability in Preoperative CTs
Authors: Pagliani Luca , Motroni Alessandro , Nappo Antonio , Sennerby Lars
Published: June 2010

Background: Computerized tomographs (CTs) are commonly used for presurgical planning of dental implant placement. It is possible that implant stability can be predicted based on quantitative measurements of bone density at planned implants sites with the use of diagnostic software.

Purpose: The aim was to evaluate if there is a correlation between bone density measurements in specific implant positions in preoperative CTs and insertion torque (IT) and implant stability measurements when placing the implants.

Materials and Methods: The study comprised of four patients in whom presurgical CTs had been used to plan implant treatment. A total of 26 implants (Neoss, Harrogate, UK) were placed in the totally edentulous maxilla (n = 3) or mandible (n = 1). IT was measured during implant insertion and the torque/time curves examined for mean IT (newton‐centimeters) over the total curve. The stability of implants was measured with resonance frequency analysis. The positions of the implants were extracted from a postoperative CT to the preoperative one. Bone density was measured with a dedicated software (3Diagnosys™ 3.0, 3Diemme, Cantù, Italy) in virtual hollow probes, indicating the bone volume within 1 mm from each implant surface. The Spearman Rank correlation test was used to find possible correlations.

Results: Statistically significant correlations were found between mean bone density, mean IT, and implant stability measurements.

Conclusions: This pilot study showed a correlation between bone density, as measured in Hounsfield units in preoperative CTs, and IT and implant stability measurements at the surgical placement of the implants. The findings support the idea that integration of bone density measurements in implant probes in preoperative CTs using treatment‐planning software may be a useful feature to predict implant stability and to avoid failures.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of a Water Lift System in the Sinus Membrane‐Lifting Operation as a Sinus Surgical Instrument
Authors: Kim Dae Y. , Itoh Yusaku , Kang Tae H.
Published: June 2010

Purpose: The effectiveness of a Water Lift System in the sinus membrane‐lifting operation was examined. This investigation focused on the capability of this equipment to reduce the risk of Schneiderian membrane perforation.

Materials and Methods: A preliminary clinical study on the use of the Water Lift System in sinus membrane elevation to place implants through the sinus floor was conducted. A total of 70 sinus membrane‐lifting operations were performed on patients with various bone heights ranging from 1.2 to 9.9 mm (most commonly in the range of 4–6 mm) through the lateral approach (four cases) or the crestal approach (66 cases).

Results: In all of the cases performed using the lateral approach, sinus membrane perforation did not occur. In the 66 cases performed using the crestal approach, Schneiderian membrane tearing occurred in two cases. The membrane tearing occurred during elevation of the Schneiderian membrane but not when a hole was drilled to access the Schneiderian membrane. One case of membrane tearing resulted from previous inflammation in the maxillary sinus, and the other case of membrane tearing was caused by application of excessive hydraulic pressure. In addition, similar outcomes were obtained and no microbial infections were observed in a total of 68 successful cases.

Conclusions: In this study, the Water Lift System was confirmed to effectively reduce the risk of Schneiderian membrane perforation during the sinus membrane‐lifting operation. We conclude that the Water Lift System deserves to be considered as a sinus surgical instrument, which ensures safety in the sinus membrane‐lifting operation.