bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From opportunistic to systematic use of the Web as corpus:Do-support withgot (to)in contemporary American English
Authors: Mair Christian
Published: February 2013

The chapter argues that the best way to profit from the rich corpus-linguistic working environment available to the student of the history of English is to use traditional (and sometimes small) linguistic corpora together with larger textual databases and digital archives, including the World-Wide Web, in a coordinated way. Linguistic corpora (ARCHER, Brown family, BNC, COCA, COHA) are sufficient to document the successive waves of grammaticalisation which have added have to, have got to and, more recently, want to or need to to the older form must, producing the complex layered system of present-day English modal markers of obligation and necessity. Using do-support with modal got (to)/gotta as an illustration, the paper shows that, in spite of its known deficiencies as a linguistic corpus, the World-Wide Web can help fill in the language-historical picture in useful ways where even the biggest available corpora fail to produce sufficient evidence.
Rethinking the loss of verb second
Authors: van Kemenade Ans
Published: February 2013

More than twenty years of research has been devoted to the nature of Verb Second (V2) in early English and its loss in the transition from Middle English (ME) to early Modern English (EModE). Yet there has been no sufficient explanation for why and how V2 was lost in clauses introduced by a non-subject first constituent other than a wh- phrase or a negative element. This article investigates the information structure (IS) factors contributing to V2 variation over the ME period: type of finite verb (Vf), the information status of the first constituent, and the information status of the subject. It shows that the most important change in connection with the loss of V2 is that subjects are increasingly placed on the left of Vf, rather than a change in Vf placement. The overall backdrop for this development lies in the relation between syntax and IS. This article presents a case study on V2 inversion in main clauses introduced by adverbs, involving three types of finite verb (transitive/unergative, unaccusative, auxiliary), and various types of subject.
Retrograde Light-guided Laryngoscopy for Tracheal Intubation
Authors: Yang Tao , Hou Jiong , Li Jinbao , Zhang Xu , Zhu Xiaoyan , Ni Wen , Mao Yanfei , Deng Xiaoming
Published: February 2013

Background:

Tracheal intubation with conventional laryngoscopy requires many trials until beginners are sufficiently skilled in intubating patients safely. To facilitate intubation, the authors used retrograde light-guided laryngoscopy (RLGL) and compared its feasibility with conventional direct laryngoscopy (DL).

Methods:

Twenty operators participated in a prospective, randomized, open-label, parallel-arm study. These operators intubated 205 patients randomly according to a computer-generated procedure by using either DL or RLGL (five intubations with each technique). The primary outcome was the success rate of tracheal intubation. The authors evaluated the success rate of tracheal intubation, the time to glottic exposure and tracheal intubation, and the Cormack and Lehane grades.

Results:

Compared with DL, the success rate was greater in the RLGL group for all five intubations (72% vs. 47%; rate difference, 25%; 95% CI [11.84–38.16%], P < 0.001). This was associated with a shorter time to glottic exposure (median [25th and 75th percentile]; 27 [15; 42] vs. 45 [30; 73] s, P < 0.001), shorter intubation time (66 [44; 120] vs. 120 [69; 120] s, P < 0.001), and decreased throat soreness (mean ± SD; visual analog scale, 2.1 ± 0.9 vs. 3.7 ± 1.0 cm, P = 0.001) in the RLGL group compared to the DL group.

Conclusion:

RLGL is an alternative intubation technique. In our study, it enables beginners to intubate patients more successfully and quickly than conventional DL.
Postoperative Respiratory Muscle Dysfunction
Authors: Sasaki Nobuo , Meyer Matthew J. , Eikermann Matthias
Published: February 2013

Postoperative pulmonary complications are responsible for significant increases in hospital cost as well as patient morbidity and mortality; respiratory muscle dysfunction represents a contributing factor. Upper airway dilator muscles functionally resist the upper airway collapsing forces created by the respiratory pump muscles. Standard perioperative medications (anesthetics, sedatives, opioids, and neuromuscular blocking agents), interventions (patient positioning, mechanical ventilation, and surgical trauma), and diseases (lung hyperinflation, obesity, and obstructive sleep apnea) have differential effects on the respiratory muscle subgroups. These effects on the upper airway dilators and respiratory pump muscles impair their coordination and function and can result in respiratory failure. Perioperative management strategies can help decrease the incidence of postoperative respiratory muscle dysfunction. Such strategies include minimally invasive procedures rather than open surgery, early and optimal mobilizing of respiratory muscles while on mechanical ventilation, judicious use of respiratory depressant anesthetics and neuromuscular blocking agents, and noninvasive ventilation when possible.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Analysis of the Spread of Local Anesthetic Solution after Ultrasound-guided Lateral Thoracic Paravertebral Blockade
Authors: Marhofer Daniela , Marhofer Peter , Kettner Stephan C. , Fleischmann Edith , Prayer Daniela , Schernthaner Melanie , Lackner Edith , Willschke Harald , Schwetz Pascal , Zeitlinger Markus
Published: February 2013

Background:

This study was designed to examine the spread of local anesthetic (LA) via magnetic resonance imaging after a standardized ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral blockade.

Methods:

Ten volunteers were enrolled in the study. We performed ultrasound-guided single-shot paravertebral blocks with 20 ml mepivacaine 1% at the thoracic six level at both sides on two consecutive days. After each paravertebral blockade, a magnetic resonance imaging investigation was performed to investigate the three-dimensional spread of the LA. In addition, sensory spread of blockade was evaluated via pinprick testing.

Results:

The median (interquartile range) cranial and caudal distribution of the LA relative to the thoracic six puncture level was 1.0 (2.5) and 3.0 (0.75) [=4.0 vertebral levels] for the left and 0.5 (1.0) and 3.0 (0.75) [=3.5 vertebral levels] for the right side. Accordingly, the LA distributed more caudally than cranially. The median (interquartile range) number of sensory dermatomes which were affected by the thoracic paravertebral blockade was 9.8 (6.5) for the left and 10.7 (8.8) for the right side. The sensory distribution of thoracic paravertebral blockade was significantly larger compared with the spread of LA.

Conclusions:

Although the spread of LA was reproducible, the anesthetic effect was unpredictable, even with a standardized ultrasound-guided technique in volunteers. While it can be assumed that approximately 4 vertebral levels are covered by 20 ml LA, the somatic distribution of the thoracic paravertebral blockade remains unpredictable. In a significant percentage, the LA distributes into the epidural space, prevertebral, or to the contralateral side.
Teratogenicity of Staphylococcus aureus L-forms using a mouse whole-embryo culture model
Authors: Liu Yong , Zhu Xiang , Yu Feng-ling , Kong Xiao-ming , Lin Na , Liu Cong-sen , Liu Ting-ting , Guan Jun-chang
Published: February 2013

Our previous studies have suggested that Staphylococcus aureus L-forms are able to pass through the placental barrier of mice from the maternal side to the fetal body and affect fetal growth and development, but little is known about the direct influence of S. aureus L-forms on embryos during the critical period of organogenesis. Mouse embryos at gestational day 8.5 were cultured in vitro for 48 h with 0, 50, 100, 200 or 400 c.f.u. S. aureus L-forms ml−1. At the end of the culture period, the mouse embryos were assessed morphologically for viability, growth and development. Bacteriological and immunohistochemical staining were used to determine the existence of S. aureus L-forms in embryonic tissues. We found that both crown–rump length and head length of mouse embryos exposed to S. aureus L-forms at a concentration of 50 c.f.u. ml−1 were reduced. When the mouse embryos were exposed to 100, 200 or 400 c.f.u. S. aureus L-forms ml−1, the total morphological score, number of somites, dry embryo weight, yolk sac diameter, crown–rump length and head length were significantly lower than those of the control group. With the increased concentration of S. aureus L-forms in the culture medium, there were fewer normally developed embryos and more embryos with abnormalities or retardation in growth. S. aureus L-forms detected by Gram-staining and immunohistochemical detection of antigen were found in the tissues of embryos infected by S. aureus L-forms. These data suggest that S. aureus L-forms exert a direct teratogenic effect on cultured mouse embryos in vitro.
ω-6 Polyunsaturated fatty acids extend life span through the activation of autophagy
Authors: O'Rourke Eyleen J. , Kuballa Petric , Xavier Ramnik , Ruvkun Gary
Published: February 2013

Adaptation to nutrient scarcity depends on the activation of metabolic programs to efficiently use internal reserves of energy. Activation of these programs in abundant food regimens can extend life span. However, the common molecular and metabolic changes that promote adaptation to nutritional stress and extend life span are mostly unknown. Here we present a response to fasting, enrichment of ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), which promotes starvation resistance and extends Caenorhabditis elegans life span. Upon fasting, C. elegans induces the expression of a lipase, which in turn leads to an enrichment of ω-6 PUFAs. Supplementing C. elegans culture media with these ω-6 PUFAs increases their resistance to starvation and extends their life span in conditions of food abundance. Supplementation of C. elegans or human epithelial cells with these ω-6 PUFAs activates autophagy, a cell recycling mechanism that promotes starvation survival and slows aging. Inactivation of C. elegans autophagy components reverses the increase in life span conferred by supplementing the C. elegans diet with these fasting-enriched ω-6 PUFAs. We propose that the salubrious effects of dietary supplementation with ω-3/6 PUFAs (fish oils) that have emerged from epidemiological studies in humans may be due to a similar activation of autophagic programs.
Systematic Review: Emergency Department Bedside Ultrasonography for Diagnosing Suspected Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Rubano Elizabeth , Mehta Ninfa , Caputo William , Paladino Lorenzo , Sinert Richard
Published: February 2013

Background

The use of ultrasound (US) to diagnose an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) has been well studied in the radiology literature, but has yet to be rigorously reviewed in the emergency medicine arena.

Objectives

This was a systematic review of the literature for the operating characteristics of emergency department (ED) ultrasonography for AAA.

Methods

The authors searched PubMed and EMBASE databases for trials from 1965 through November 2011 using a search strategy derived from the following PICO formulation: Patients—patients (18+ years) suspected of AAA. Intervention—bedside ED US to detect AAA. Comparator—reference standard for diagnosing an AAA was a computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), aortography, official US performed by radiology, ED US reviewed by radiology, exploratory laparotomy, or autopsy results. AAA was defined as ≥3 cm dilation of the aorta. Outcome—operating characteristics (sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios [LR]) of ED abdominal US. The papers were analyzed using Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS) guidelines.

Results

The initial search strategy identified 1,238 articles; application of inclusion/exclusion criteria resulted in seven studies with 655 patients. The weighted average prevalence of AAA in symptomatic patients over the age of 50 years is 23%. On history, 50% of AAA patients will lack the classic triad of hypotension, back pain, and pulsatile abdominal mass. The sensitivity of abdominal palpation for AAA increases as the diameter of the AAA increases. The pooled operating characteristics of ED US for the detection of AAA were sensitivity 99% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 96% to 100%) and specificity 98% (95% CI = 97% to 99%).

Conclusions

Seven high‐quality studies of the operating characteristics of ED bedside US in diagnosing AAA were identified. All showed excellent diagnostic performance for emergency bedside US to detect the presence of AAA in symptomatic patients.
Minor Histocompatibility Antigens and the Maternal Immune Response to the Fetus During Pregnancy
Authors: Linscheid Caitlin , Petroff Margaret G.
Published: February 2013

The tolerance of the semiallogeneic fetus by the maternal immune system is an important area of research for understanding how the maternal and fetal systems interact during pregnancy to ensure a successful outcome. Several lines of research reveal that the maternal immune system can recognize and respond to fetal minor histocompatibility antigens during pregnancy. Reactions to these antigens arise because of allelic differences between the mother and fetus and have been shown more broadly to play an important role in mediating transplantation outcomes. This review outlines the discovery of minor histocompatibility antigens and their importance in solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantations, maternal T‐cell responses to minor histocompatibility antigens during pregnancy, expression of minor histocompatibility antigens in the human placenta, and the potential involvement of minor histocompatibility antigens in the development and manifestation of pregnancy complications.
Expression of Apoptosis in Placenta of Experimental Antiphospholipid Syndrome Mouse
Authors: Velayuthaprabhu Shanmugam , Matsubayashi Hidehiko , Sugi Toshitaka , Nakamura Masato , Ohnishi Yasuyuki , Ogura Tomoyuki , Archunan Govindaraju
Published: February 2013

Problem

To study the histopathology and expression of apoptosis in placenta of pregnancy‐complicated antiphospholipid syndrome (APS)‐positive mouse models.

Method of study

ICR mice were immunized with IgG isotype of human anticardiolipin (aCL) and/or lupus anticoagulant (LA). The pathological and apoptotic expression was studied in the placenta of positive APS mice and compared with respective control samples.

Results

Mice with passive immunization of human aCL and/or LA produced an increase in fetal resorption along with markedly induced thrombosis in the placenta associated with increased placental apoptosis. In addition, fewer mitotic cells, less trophoblast giant cell invasion, and more shrunken cells in the deciduas were seen.

Conclusion

Our study showed the pathogenic role of aCL and LA in pregnancy complications.
Parasite maturation and host serum iron influence the labile iron pool of erythrocyte stagePlasmodium falciparum
Authors: Clark Martha , Fisher Nancy C. , Kasthuri Raj , Cerami Hand Carla
Published: February 2013

Iron is a critical and tightly regulated nutrient for both the malaria parasite and its human host. The importance of the relationship between host iron and the parasite has been underscored recently by studies showing that host iron supplementation may increase the risk of falciparum malaria. It is unclear what host iron sources the parasite is able to access. We developed a flow cytometry‐based method for measuring the labile iron pool (LIP) of parasitized erythrocytes using the nucleic acid dyeSTYO61 and the iron sensitive dye, calcein acetoxymethyl ester (CA‐AM). This new approach enabled us to measure theLIPofP. falciparumthrough the course of its erythrocytic life cycle and in response to the addition of host serum iron sources. We found that theLIPincreases as the malaria parasite develops from early ring to late schizont stage, and that the addition of either transferrin or ferric citrate to culture media increases theLIPof trophozoites. Our method for detecting theLIPwithin malaria parasitizedRBCs provides evidence that the parasite is able to access serum iron sources as part of the host vs. parasite arms race for iron.
New advances in the diagnosis and treatment of POEMS syndrome
Authors: Li Jian , Zhou Dao‐bin
Published: February 2013

POEMS syndrome is a clonal plasma cell disease characterized by polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M protein, and skin changes. Significant advances have been made in the diagnosis and treatment of POEMS syndrome over the last decade. Herein, the diagnostic criteria and characteristic features are reviewed, focusing the role of characteristic features in early diagnoses. Autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation has become the first‐line treatment for younger patients with normal organ function. Autologous transplantation has resulted in a high response rate and durable remission. Moreover, transplantation‐related morbidity and mortality has been significantly reduced over the past 5 years. Induction therapy before transplantation may improve the harvest of stem cells and decrease transplantation‐related morbidity. Melphalan and dexamethasone is an effective and well‐tolerated treatment for older patients or those with organ dysfunction. Novel agents may also offer benefits to patients with a poor performance status or renal dysfunction, and transform transplantation eligibility.
Modern management of lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Xing Katharine H. , Savage Kerry J.
Published: February 2013

Nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin lymphoma (NLPHL) represents 5% of all Hodgkin lymphoma and has distinct clinico‐pathological features. It is typified by the presence of lymphocyte predominant cells, which are CD20+, CD15− and CD30− and are found scattered amongst small B‐lymphocytes arranged in a nodular pattern. Patients typically are males presenting with localized, peripheral lymphadenopathy. Despite frequent and often late or multiple relapses the prognosis is favourable. Deaths due to NLPHL are uncommon, but secondary malignancies and other treatment toxicities contribute appreciably to overall mortality. Secondary aggressive non‐Hodgkin lymphoma can occur in approximately 7–14% of cases of NLPHL. Given this diseases' rarity, the optimal management is unclear and opinions differ as to whether treatment paradigms should be similar to or differ from those for classical Hodgkin lymphoma. This review provides an overview of the existing literature describing of the outcome and treatment approaches for limited and advanced stage NLPHL.
Taxonomy: no decline, but inertia
Authors: Tancoigne Elise , Dubois Alain
Published: February 2013

The recent literature is rich in papers sounding the alarm about taxonomy. We analyzed data from the Zoological Record (1864–2010 and 1978–2010) to show that we cannot speak of a decline. The number of authors describing new species is growing, along with the number of articles describing new species and the number of new species. We also observed a growing interdisciplinarity and a change in the number of species described per author, suggesting that taxonomy is experiencing new ways of doing research. The modalities of these changes remain to be explored. It is therefore more pertinent to speak not of a decline, i.e. of a degradation relative to a previous situation, but of inadequacy relative to its objective, namely the scientific inventory and classification of the planet's living taxa.
Influence of peripheral arterial occlusive disease on the Neuropad® test performance in patients with diabetes
Authors: Aubert C. E. , Le Doeuff J. , Lajou J. , Barthelemy O. , Hartemann A. , Bourron O.
Published: February 2013

Aims

The specificity of the Neuropad® test to screen for peripheral neuropathy is moderate, but this test has several advantages, such as self‐use, educative value and good sensitivity. Use of the Neuropad is usually contra‐indicated in the presence of peripheral arterial occlusive disease, a condition associated with skin dryness. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of peripheral arterial occlusive disease on the performance of the Neuropad for screening peripheral neuropathy, and to compare it with the monofilament test.

Methods

We included 200 patients with diabetes. Peripheral neuropathy was defined by a neuropathy disability score ≥ 6. The Neuropad was determined as normal or abnormal at 10 and 20 min, respectively, and its performance was compared in patients with and without peripheral arterial occlusive disease diagnosed by colour duplex ultrasonography. The performances of the Neuropad and of the monofilament test were compared.

Results

Prevalences of peripheral neuropathy and of peripheral arterial occlusive disease were 15.8 and 44%, respectively. At 10 min, sensitivity and negative predictive value were high (93.8 and 95.1%), while specificity and positive predictive value were poor (23.2 and 18.9%). The Neuropad performance was not significantly different between patients with and without arteriopathy. Between 10 and 20 min, there was significant loss of sensitivity and gain in specificity. The Neuropad at 10 min was more sensitive but less specific than the monofilament test.

Conclusions

The reliability of the Neuropad is not significantly different in the presence or absence of peripheral arterial occlusive disease.
Effect of online diabetes training for hospitalists on inpatient glycaemia
Authors: Tamler R. , Dunn A. S. , Green D. E. , Skamagas M. , Breen T. L. , Looker H. C. , LeRoith D.
Published: February 2013

Aim

An online diabetes course for medical residents led to lower patient blood glucose, but also increased hypoglycaemia despite improved trainee confidence and knowledge. Based on these findings, we determined whether an optimized educational intervention delivered to hospitalists (corresponding to an Acute Physician or Specialist in Acute Hospital Medicine in the UK) improved inpatient glycaemia without concomitant hypoglycaemia.

Methods

All 22 hospitalists at an academic medical centre were asked to participate in an online curriculum on the management of inpatient dysglycaemia in autumn 2009 and a refresher course in spring 2010.

Results

All hospitalists completed the initial intervention. Median event blood glucose decreased from 9.3 mmol/l (168 mg/dl) pre‐intervention to 7.8 mmol/l (141 mg/dl) post‐intervention and 8.5 mmol/l (153 mg/dl) post‐refresher (P < 0.001 for both). Hospitalizations categorized as hyperglycaemia decreased from 83.3 to 55.6% (P = 0.014), with a trend towards euglycaemia (10–28.9%, P = 0.08) and no change in hypoglycaemia. Hyperglycaemic patient‐days decreased from 72.0 to 57.3% (P = 0.004), with greater target glycaemia (27.3–39.4%, P = 0.016) and no change in hypoglycaemia.

Conclusions

An optimized online educational intervention delivered to hospitalists yielded significant improvements in inpatient glycaemia without increased hypoglycaemia.
‘The pump was a saviour for me.’Patients' experiences of insulin pump therapy
Authors: Garmo A. , Hörnsten Å. , Leksell J.
Published: February 2013

Background and aim

The present study formed part of a larger study examining the potential long‐term effects of glycaemic control and treatment satisfaction in people with Type 1 diabetes mellitus who changed from multiple daily insulin injections to insulin pump therapy. Individuals (n = 46) who made the transition between May 1999 and February 2004 participated. The aim of the study was to describe experiences of the impact of insulin pump therapy in adults with Type 1 diabetes mellitus after > 5 years’ use of an insulin pump.

Method

During spring 2009, 16 of the individuals were interviewed through a narrative approach on the effects of insulin pump therapy on daily life. The interviews were analysed using content analysis.

Results

The overarching theme revealed that insulin pump therapy was experienced as both a shackle and a lifeline. Six sub‐themes emerged: subjected vs. empowered; dependent vs. autonomous; vulnerable vs. strengthened; routinized vs. flexible; burdened vs. relieved; and stigmatized vs. normalized.

Conclusions

Users of insulin pump therapy have different views about and experience of having used the technical equipment over years. Both positive and negative views emerged. However, it is difficult to identify any general trends that cover all views and can predict which individuals will be able to manage pump therapy in the best way. Even so, the sub‐themes and theme that emerged could be used by physicians and diabetes specialist nurses when counselling and planning educational programmes aimed at supporting self‐management among people with insulin pump treatment.
Relation of socio‐economic status to impaired fasting glucose and Type 2 diabetes: findings based on a large population‐based cross‐sectional study in Tianjin, China
Authors: Zhang H. , Xu W. , Dahl A. K. , Xu Z. , Wang H.‐X. , Qi X.
Published: February 2013

Aims

Studies on the relationship between socio‐economic status and Type 2 diabetes mellitus in the Chinese population are sparse. We aimed to examine the relation of socio‐economic status as represented by income, education and occupation to impaired fasting glucose, Type 2 diabetes, and the control of Type 2 diabetes in a large Chinese population.

Methods

This study included 7315 individuals who were aged 20–79 years and living in Tianjin, China. Impaired fasting glucose and Type 2 diabetes were ascertained according to the 1999 World Health Organization criteria. Data were analysed using multinomial and binary logistic regression, with adjustment for potential confounders.

Result

Among all participants, 532 (7.3%) persons had impaired fasting glucose, 688 (9.4%) persons had Type 2 diabetes, including 288 (3.9%) previously undiagnosed Type 2 diabetes. In fully adjusted multinomial logistic regression, compared with higher income (≥ 2000 yuan, $243.3/month), lower income (< 1000 yuan, $121.70/month) showed odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) of 3.31 (2.48–4.41) for impaired fasting glucose, 4.50 (3.07–6.61) for undiagnosed Type 2 diabetes and 4.56 (3.20–6.48) for diagnosed Type 2 diabetes. These results remained significant in the analysis stratified by education and occupation. Furthermore, persons who were retired were more likely to have impaired fasting glucose [odds ratio 1.91 (1.40–2.45)], undiagnosed Type 2 diabetes [odds ratio 2.01) 1.40–2.89] and diagnosed Type 2 diabetes [odds ratio 3.02 (2.12–4.22)]. Among the patients with Type 2 diabetes previously diagnosed, lower education (less than senior high school), non‐manual work and unemployment were related to worse glycaemic control (fasting blood glucose level > 8.5 mmol/l).

Conclusions

Lower income and retirement are associated with increased odds of impaired fasting glucose and Type 2 diabetes in Tianjin, China. Education and occupation may play a role in glycaemic control among patients with Type 2 diabetes.
Diversity, abundance, and distribution of NO‐forming nitrite reductase–encoding genes in deep‐sea subsurface sediments of the South China Sea
Authors: Li M. , Hong Y. , Cao H. , Klotz M. G. , Gu J.‐D.
Published: February 2013

In marine ecosystems, both nitrite‐reducing bacteria and anaerobic ammonium‐oxidizing (anammox) bacteria, containing different types of NO‐forming nitrite reductase–encoding genes, contribute to the nitrogen cycle. The objectives of study were to reveal the diversity, abundance, and distribution of NO‐forming nitrite reductase–encoding genes in deep‐sea subsurface environments. Results showed that higher diversity and abundance of nirS gene than nirK and Scalindua‐nirS genes were evident in the sediments of the South China Sea (SCS), indicating bacteria containing nirS gene dominated the NO‐forming nitrite‐reducing microbial community in this ecosystem. Similar diversity and abundance distribution patterns of both nirS and Scalindua‐nirS genes were detected in this study sites, but different from nirK gene. Further statistical analyses also showed both nirS and Scalindua‐nirS genes respond similarly to environmental factors, but differed from nirK gene. These results suggest that bacteria containing nirS and Scalindua‐nirS genes share similar niche in deep‐sea subsurface sediments of the SCS, but differed from those containing nirK gene, indicating that community structures of nitrite‐reducing bacteria are segregated by the functional modules (NirS vs. NirK) rather than the competing processes (anammox vs. classical denitrification).
Minimal functional routes in directed graphs with dependent edges
Authors: Wang Rui‐Sheng , Sun Zhongyao , Albert Réka
Published: February 2013

Graphs are mathematical structures used to model a set of objects and the relations between them. One of the basic concepts of graph theory, the path, has wide real‐world applications. In classic graph models, edges ending at a node are assumed to be independent. However, many real graphs/networks can only be correctly described by considering a dependency among nodes or edges. Paths in such graphs may not be functional if the conditional dependency is ignored. In this study, we investigate the routing problem in directed graphs with dependent edges represented by general graph models as alternatives to hypergraphs. We define a minimal functional route (MFR) as a minimal set of nodes and edges that can independently perform information transfer between two given nodes, and formulate the determination of MFRs as a graph search problem. A depth‐first‐search (DFS) top‐down algorithm, an iterative integer linear programming (ILP) bottom‐up algorithm, and a subgraph‐growing bottom‐up algorithm are devised subsequently to solve this problem. Numerical experiments verify the effectiveness of the algorithms. The defined MFR problem and the proposed algorithms are expected to find many practical applications.
Chromosomal assignment of seventeen porcine microsatellites and genes by use of a somatic cell hybrid mapping panel
Authors: Rettenberger G , Bruch J , Beattie C W , Moran C , Fries R , Hameister H
Published: February 2013

Swine‐specific sequence tagged (microsatellite) sites, STS and STMS, were assigned chromosomally by polymerase chain reaction analysis of a somatic cell hybrid panel. This study confirms the localization from genetic mapping of seven anonymous microsatellites and the genes ANPEP, ATP2, CGA, DAGK, FSHB, IFNG, IGF1, IL1B and SPP1. New assignment for the gene BNP1 to chromosome 6 is reported. The confirmed and the new assignments extend the information of the previously established linkage maps and provide framework loci on which to order additional informative markers.
Age Effects in Second Language Learning: Stepping Stones Toward Better Understanding
Authors: DeKeyser Robert M.
Published: February 2013

The effect of age of acquisition on ultimate attainment in second language learning has been a controversial topic for years. After providing a very brief overview of the ideas that are at the core of the controversy, I discuss the two main reasons why these issues are so controversial: conceptual misunderstandings and methodological difficulties. The main part of the article then makes suggestions for improvement in subject selection, data collection, and instrumentation, in the hope that both sides of the debate will be able to agree on them. More sophisticated research in this area is of the utmost importance given how crucial understanding age effects is for educational policy and curriculum design. Where foreign language learning rather than second language learning is concerned, directly relevant research, carried out with classroom foreign language learners, is even more sorely needed.
Understanding GRADE: an introduction
Authors: Goldet Gabrielle , Howick Jeremy
Published: February 2013

Objective

Grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluations (GRADE) is arguably the most widely used method for appraising studies to be included in systematic reviews and guidelines. In order to use the GRADE system or know how to interpret it when reading reviews, reading several articles and attending a workshop are required. Moreover, the GRADE system is not covered in standard medical textbooks. Here, we explain GRADE concisely with the use of examples so that students and other researchers can understand it.

Background

In order to use or interpret the GRADE system, reading several articles and attending a workshop is currently required. Moreover, the GRADE system is not covered in standard medical textbooks.

Methods

We read, synthesized, and digested the GRADE publications and contacted GRADE contributors for explanations where required. We composed a digested version of the system in a concise way a general medical audience could understand.

Results

We were able to explain the GRADE basics clearly and completely in under 1500 words.

Conclusions

While advanced critical appraisal requires judgment, training, and practice, it is possible for a non‐specialist to grasp GRADE basics very quickly.
Interstitial movement and emergence of barbel Barbus barbus free embryos and larvae
Authors: Vilizzi L. , Copp G. H.
Published: February 2013

The movement of barbel Barbus barbus free embryos in the interstitial zone and the timing of larval emergence were studied for 12 days in an artificial stream. After egg fertilization (day 1), hatching occurred on day 6, downstream interstitial movements of free embryos on day 9 and emergence and downstream movement of all larvae on day 12, with density of free embryos decreasing as day of emergence approached. The results suggest that a memory‐based response of B. barbus to environmental conditions, previously observed in 0+ year juveniles, begins at an early age.
Determining normal and abnormal lip shapes at border positions for use as a longitudinal surgical outcome measure
Authors: Popat H. , Zhurov A. I. , Richmond S. , Marshall D. , Rosin P. L.
Published: February 2013

Objective measures of facial movement are important for interventions where surgical repositioning of facial structures can influence soft tissue mobility and include the management of patients with cleft lip, facial nerve palsy and orthognathic surgery. As such, the aim of this study is to present a method for determining the outcome of surgical procedures on lip shape during speech. A control group (CG) of 115 average subjects and 30 patients with a Class 3 malocclusion requiring bimaxillary surgery performed four reproducible verbal utterances during image capture using a non‐invasive, three‐dimensional (3D) motion scanner (3dMDFace™ Dynamic System). Landmark coordinates around the lips of the 3D facial shells were extracted and subjected to discriminant analysis and principal component analysis to statistically differentiate lip shapes between the CG and the patient group (PG) pre‐ and post‐surgery. Pre‐surgically, the PG showed statistically significant differences in lip shape during speech in the lateral and vertical dimensions, preferring a wider, shorter lip shape when compared with the CG for all the utterances. The shape differences normalised towards the CG post‐surgery. The method presented utilises pre‐existing statistical shape analyses and can be reproduced in the clinical setting to provide a diagnostic and functional outcome tool. In this example, correction of the Class 3 skeletal disproportions appeared to normalise lip shape during speech.
THE MINORITY HOMEOWNERSHIP GAP, HOME FORECLOSURE, AND NATIVITY: EVIDENCE FROM MIAMI‐DADE COUNTY*
Authors: Cahill Meagan E. , Franklin Rachel S.
Published: February 2013

ABSTRACT This paper investigates the interplay between nativity and both homeownership and foreclosure in Miami‐Dade County, Florida at both the individual and community levels. We estimate the likelihood of individual‐level home ownership based on place of birth and year of entry to the U.S., and separately estimate community‐level foreclosures based on the demographic composition of neighborhoods. Results confirm previous work: all subgroups, except Cubans, are less likely to be homeowners than white, non‐Hispanics and only Cuban neighborhoods had foreclosure rates significantly lower than rates in white, non‐Hispanic neighborhoods. Nativity has a stronger effect on homeownership than on foreclosure levels.
Improving AFLP analysis of large‐scale patterns of genetic variation – a case study with the Central African lianas Haumania spp (Marantaceae) showing interspecific gene flow
Authors: Ley A. C. , Hardy O. J.
Published: February 2013

AFLP markers are often used to study patterns of population genetic variation and gene flow because they offer a good coverage of the nuclear genome, but the reliability of AFLP scoring is critical. To assess interspecific gene flow in two African rainforest liana species (Haumania danckelmaniana, H. liebrechtsiana) where previous evidence of chloroplast captures questioned the importance of hybridization and species boundaries, we developed new AFLP markers and a novel approach to select reliable bands from their degree of reproducibility. The latter is based on the estimation of the broad‐sense heritability of AFLP phenotypes, an improvement over classical scoring error rates, which showed that the polymorphism of most AFLP bands was affected by a substantial nongenetic component. Therefore, using a quantitative genetics framework, we also modified an existing estimator of pairwise kinship coefficient between individuals correcting for the limited heritability of markers. Bayesian clustering confirms the recognition of the two Haumania species. Nevertheless, the decay of the relatedness between individuals of distinct species with geographic distance demonstrates that hybridization affects the nuclear genome. In conclusion, although we showed that AFLP markers might be substantially affected by nongenetic factors, their analysis using the new methods developed considerably advanced our understanding of the pattern of gene flow in our model species.
Checklists improve experts’ diagnostic decisions
Authors: Sibbald Matthew , de Bruin Anique B H , van Merrienboer Jeroen J G
Published: February 2013

Context  Checklists are commonly proposed tools to reduce error. However, when applied by experts, checklists have the potential to increase cognitive load and result in ‘expertise reversal’. One potential solution is to use checklists in the verification stage, rather than in the initial interpretation stage of diagnostic decisions. This may avoid expertise reversal by preserving the experts’ initial approach. Whether checklist use during the verification stage of diagnostic decision making improves experts’ diagnostic decisions is unknown.

Methods  Fifteen experts interpreted 18 electrocardiograms (ECGs) in four different conditions: undirected interpretation; verification without a checklist; verification with a checklist, and interpretation combined with verification with a checklist. Outcomes included the number of errors, cognitive load, interpretation time and interpretation length. Outcomes were compared in two analyses: (i) a comparison of verification conditions with and without a checklist, and (ii) a comparison of all four conditions. Standardised scores for each outcome were used to calculate the efficiency of a checklist and to weigh its relative benefit against its relative cost in terms of cognitive load imposed, interpretation time and interpretation length.

Results  In both analyses, checklist use was found to reduce error (more errors were corrected in verification conditions with checklists [0.29 ± 0.77 versus 0.03 ± 0.61 errors per ECG], and fewer net errors occurred in all conditions with checklists [0.39 ± 1.14 versus 1.04 ± 1.49 errors per ECG]; p < 0.01 for both). Checklists were not associated with increased cognitive load (verifications with and without checklists: 3.7 ± 1.9 and 3.3 ± 2.0, respectively; conditions with and without checklists: 4.0 ± 1.8 versus 3.9 ± 2.0, respectively [p = not significant for both]). Checklists resulted in greater interpretation times and lengths (p < 0.01 for all). However, checklists were efficient in terms of the cognitive load invested, interpretation time and interpretation length (p < 0.01 for all).

Conclusions  Among ECG interpretation experts, checklist use during the verification stage of diagnostic decisions did not increase cognitive load or cause expertise reversal, but did reduce diagnostic error.
Biomedical knowledge, clinical cognition and diagnostic justification: a structural equation model
Authors: Cianciolo Anna T , Williams Reed G , Klamen Debra L , Roberts Nicole K
Published: February 2013

Context  The process whereby medical students employ integrated analytic and non‐analytic diagnostic strategies is not fully understood. Analysing academic performance data could provide a perspective complementary to that of laboratory experiments when investigating the nature of diagnostic strategy. This study examined the performance data of medical students in an integrated curriculum to determine the relative contributions of biomedical knowledge and clinical pattern recognition to diagnostic strategy.

Methods  Structural equation modelling was used to examine the relationship between biomedical knowledge and clinical cognition (clinical information gathering and interpretation) assessed in Years 1 and 2 of medical school and their relative contributions to diagnostic justification assessed at the beginning of Year 4. Modelling was applied to the academic performance data of 133 medical students who received their md degrees in 2011 and 2012.

Results  The model satisfactorily fit the data. The correlation between biomedical knowledge and clinical cognition was low–moderate (0.26). The paths between these two constructs and diagnostic justification were moderate and slightly favoured biomedical knowledge (0.47 and 0.40 for biomedical knowledge and clinical cognition, respectively).

Conclusions  The findings suggest that within the first 2 years of medical school, students possessed separate, but complementary, cognitive tools, comprising biomedical knowledge and clinical pattern recognition, which contributed to an integrated diagnostic strategy at the beginning of Year 4. Assessing diagnostic justification, which requires students to make their thinking explicit, may promote the integration of analytic and non‐analytic processing into diagnostic strategy.
A phenomenographic approach to research in medical education
Authors: Stenfors‐Hayes Terese , Hult Hakan , Dahlgren Madeleine A
Published: February 2013

Context  Phenomenography is a qualitative approach to research which has revolutionised the way that researchers and teachers think about the processes and outcomes of learning in higher education. Phenomenography has also been used successfully in medical and health care research for the last 20 years. Phenomenography provides a lens through which to view certain types of research question. It also provides direction for how to empirically carry out the research.

Methods  This paper introduces phenomenography as a viable qualitative approach for use in medical education research.

Results  A phenomenographic study maps the qualitatively different ways in which people experience a phenomenon. This type of study can have an important impact on, for example, patient communication, clinical practice and health care education.

Conclusion  We suggest that a phenomenographic approach can be used to explore many medical education research issues, and can facilitate more solid links between research and educational development and change.
Exploring the relationships among attachment, emotional intelligence and communication
Authors: Cherry M Gemma , Fletcher Ian , O’Sullivan Helen
Published: February 2013

Objectives  Attachment style has been shown to influence both emotional intelligence (EI) and the clinical communication of medical students and doctors. No research has assessed the relationships among attachment, EI and clinical communication in medical students. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of EI on the relationship between medical students’ attachment style and clinical communication.

Methods  Medical students were invited to complete measures of attachment (using the Experiences in Close Relationships–Short Form [ECR‐SF], a 12‐item measure that provides attachment avoidance and attachment anxiety dimensional scores) and EI (using the Mayer–Salovey–Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test [MSCEIT], a 141‐item measure of the perception, use, understanding and management of emotions) at the end of Year 1, prior to a summative objective structured clinical examination (OSCE). Clinical communication was assessed using OSCE scores. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to analyse a hypothetical model of the relationships among attachment style, EI and clinical communication.

Results  A total of 200 of 358 (55.9%) students participated. Attachment avoidance was significantly negatively correlated with total EI scores (r = − 0.28, p < 0.01); total EI was significantly positively correlated with OSCE scores (r = 0.23, p < 0.01). A parsimonious SEM revealed that attachment avoidance accounted for 13% of the variance in students’ total EI scores but did not directly predict OSCE scores, whereas total EI significantly predicted 7% of the variance in OSCE scores.

Conclusions  Attachment is perceived to be stable from early adulthood, whereas the literature suggests that EI can be developed through the use of targeted interventions. This has potential implications for the training of medical students in clinical communication.
Isolation and functional analysis of a homolog of flavonoid 3′,5′‐hydroxylase gene from Pericallis × hybrida
Authors: Sun Yi , Huang He , Meng Li , Hu Ke , Dai Si‐Lan
Published: February 2013

As the key enzyme in the biosynthesis of blue flower color pigments, flavonoid 3′,5′‐hydroxylase (F3′5′H) can catalyze the conversion of its major substrates, 2‐S naringenin and dihydrokaempferol, into 3′,4′,5′‐hydroxylated pentahydroxyflavanone and dihydromyricetin, respectively. Unlike other F3′5′Hs belonging to the CYP75A subfamily, Asteraceae‐specific F3′5′Hs belong to the CYP75B subfamily. Furthermore, cineraria F3′5′H expressed in yeast exhibited not only F3′H (flavonoid 3′‐hydroxylase) activity but also F3′5′H activity in vitro. In this study, Southern blotting showed that there was only one copy of a homolog of the F3′5′H gene PCFH in the Pericallis × hybrida genome. This gene could be detected by Northern blot in the primary developmental stages of ligulate florets of the purple‐ and blue‐flowered cultivars, and its transcripts also accumulated in the leaves. Heterologous expression of PCFH could produce new delphinidin derivatives in the corollas of transgenic tobacco plants, increased the content of cyanidin derivatives and lead to the blue‐ and red‐shifting of flower color in T0 generation plants. These results indicate that cineraria F3′5′H exhibited both F3′5′H‐ and F3′H‐activity in vivo. The types and contents of anthocyanins and flower color phenotypes of the T1 generation were similar to those of T0 generation plants. PCFH exhibited stable inheritance and normal functions between generations. This study supplies new evidence to understand Asteraceae‐specific F3′5′Hs and provides important references for the further study of molecular breeding of blue‐flowered chrysanthemums using the PCFH gene.