bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic aspects of sodium channelopathy in small fiber neuropathy
Authors: Hoeijmakers JGJ , Merkies ISJ , Gerrits MM , Waxman SG , Faber CG
Published: July 2012

Small fiber neuropathy (SFN) is a disorder typically dominated by neuropathic pain and autonomic dysfunction, in which the thinly myelinated Aδ‐fibers and unmyelinated C‐fibers are selectively injured. The diagnosisSFNis based on a reduced intraepidermal nerve fiber density and/or abnormal thermal thresholds in quantitative sensory testing. The etiologies ofSFNare diverse, although no apparent cause is frequently seen.

Recently,SCN9A‐gene variants (single amino acid substitutions) have been found in ∼30% of a cohort of idiopathicSFNpatients, producing gain‐of‐function changes in sodium channelNaV1.7, which is preferentially expressed in small diameter peripheral axons. Functional testing showed that these variants altered fast inactivation, slow inactivation or resurgent current and rendered dorsal root ganglion neurons hyperexcitable. In this review, we discuss the role ofNaV1.7 in pain and highlight the molecular genetics and pathophysiology ofSCN9A‐gene variants inSFN. With increasing knowledge regarding the underlying pathophysiology inSFN, the development of specific treatment in these patients seems a logical target for future studies.
What differentiates children visiting outpatient mental health services with bipolar spectrum disorder from children with other psychiatric diagnoses?
Authors: Fristad Mary A , Frazier Thomas W , Youngstrom Eric A , Mount Katherine , Fields Benjamin W , Demeter Christine , Birmaher Boris , Kowatch Robert A , Arnold L Eugene , Axelson David , Gill Mary Kay , Horwitz Sarah McCue , Findling Robert L
Published: July 2012

Fristad MA, Frazier TW, Youngstrom EA, Mount K, Fields BW, Demeter C, Birmaher B, Kowatch RA, Arnold LE, Axelson D, Gill MK, Horwitz SM, Findling RL. What differentiates children visiting outpatient mental health services with bipolar spectrum disorder from children with other psychiatric diagnoses? Bipolar Disord 2012: 14: 497–506. © 2012 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objectives:  To determine the contribution of parent‐reported manic symptoms, family history, stressful life events, and family environment in predicting diagnosis of bipolar spectrum disorders (BPSD) in youth presenting to an outpatient psychiatric clinic.

Methods:  A total of 707 6‐ to 12‐year‐old children [621 with elevated symptoms of mania (ESM+) based on screening via the Parent General Behavior Inventory 10‐item Mania Scale (PGBI‐10M) and 86 without ESM (ESM–)] received a comprehensive assessment.

Results:  Of the 629 with complete data, 24% (n = 148) had BPSD. Compared to those without BPSD (n = 481), children with BPSD: were older (Cohen’s d = 0.44) and more likely to be female (Cohen’s d = 0.26); had higher parent‐endorsed manic symptom scores at screening (Cohen’s d = 0.36) and baseline (Cohen’s d = 0.76), more biological parents with a history of manic symptoms (Cohen’s d = 0.48), and greater parenting stress (Cohen’s d = 0.19). Discriminating variables, in order, were: baseline PGBI‐10M scores, biological parent history of mania, parenting stress, and screening PGBI‐10M scores. Absence of all these factors reduced risk of BPSD from 24% to 2%.

Conclusions:  History of parental manic symptoms remains a robust predictor of BPSD in youth seeking outpatient care, even after accounting for parent report of manic symptoms in the child at screening. However, the risk factors identified as associated with BPSD, together had limited value in accurately identifying individual participants with BPSD, highlighting the need for careful clinical assessment.
Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) ES Cell–Like Cells are Capable of In Vitro Skeletal Myogenic Differentiation
Authors: Singh MK , Singh KP , Kumar D , Shah RA , Anand T , Chauhan MS , Manik RS , Singla SK , Palta P
Published: July 2012

Contents

When buffalo embryonic stem (ES) cell–like cells that expressed surface markers SSEA‐4, TRA‐1‐60, TRA‐1‐81, CD9 and CD90 and intracellular markers OCT4, SOX2 and FOXD3, as shown by immunofluorescence, and that expressed REX‐1 and NUCLEOSTEMIN as confirmed by RT‐PCR, were subjected to suspension culture in hanging drops in absence of LIF and buffalo foetal fibroblast feeder layer support, they differentiated to form three‐dimensional embryoid bodies (EBs). Of 231 EBs examined on Day 3 of suspension culture, 141 (61.3 ± 3.09%) were of compact type, whereas 90 (38.4 ± 3.12%) were of cystic type. The cells obtained from EBs were found to express NF‐68 and NESTIN (ectodermal lineage), BMP‐4 and α‐skeletal actin (mesodermal lineage), and α‐fetoprotein, GATA‐4 and HNF‐4 (endodermal lineage). When these EBs were cultured on gelatin‐coated dishes, they spontaneously differentiated to several cell types such as epithelial‐ and neuron‐like cells. When EBs were cultured in the presence of 1 or 2% DMSO or 10−8 m or 10−7 m retinoic acid for 25 days, ES cells could be directed to form muscle cell–like cells, the identity of which was confirmed by expression of α‐actinin by immunofluorescence and of MYF‐5, MYOD and MYOGENIN genes by RT‐PCR. MYOD was first detected on Day 10 in both treatment groups and on Day 15 in controls, whereas MYOGENIN was first detected on Day 10, Day 15 and Day 25 in the presence of retinoic acid, in the presence of DMSO and in controls, respectively. The present study demonstrates the ability of buffalo ES cell–like cells to undergo directed differentiation to cells of skeletal myogenic lineage.
Age dependent impact of estimated glomerular filtration rate on long‐term survival after ischaemic stroke
Authors: LIMA HELBERT N. , CABRAL NORBERTO L. , FRANKLIN JARROD , MORO CARLA HELOISA C. , PECOITS‐FILHO ROBERTO , GONÇALVES ANDERSON R.
Published: July 2012

Aims:  Low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is associated with high mortality after stroke. However, ageing can influence eGFR directly and limit this burden impact. We investigated if low eGFR can be a predictor of death in different age groups after ischaemic stroke.

Methods:  We evaluated and followed for 22 ± 14 months 871 unselected consecutive survivor patients more than 30 days after ischaemic stroke (55% men, mean age of 66 ± 13 years) recruited in a prospective Brazilian cohort study from March 2005 to December 2007. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors and eGFR by The Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration formula were analyzed as predictors of mortality for the whole cohort population and stratified by age (younger or older than 65 years old) in a Cox proportional hazards regression model.

Results:  There were 119 (14%) deaths during follow up. The mean eGFR was 74 ± 23 mL/min per 1.73 m2. Three hundred and sixteen patients (36%) presented eGFR lower than 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2. For the whole population, eGFR lower than 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2 was independently associated with death after stroke in the multivariate analysis. When stratified by age groups, low eGFR was the single and independent predictor of death just for individuals younger than 65 years‐old, as for older people just chronic atrial fibrillation, previous stroke and increase of age were associated with death.

Conclusion:  Low eGFR measured at the first day of hospital admission can be a simple and trustful predictor of death after ischaemic stroke in people younger than 65 years old.
Femtosecond laser cataract surgery: technology and clinical practice
Authors: Roberts Timothy V , Lawless Michael , Chan Colin CK , Jacobs Mark , Ng David , Bali Shveta J , Hodge Chris , Sutton Gerard
Published: July 2012

Abstract

The recent introduction of femtosecond lasers to cataract surgery has generated much interest among ophthalmologists around the world. Laser cataract surgery integrates high‐resolution anterior segment imaging systems with a femtosecond laser, allowing key steps of the procedure, including the primary and side‐port corneal incisions, the anterior capsulotomy and fragmentation of the lens nucleus, to be performed with computer‐guided laser precision. There is emerging evidence of reduced phacoemulsification time, better wound architecture and a more stable refractive result with femtosecond cataract surgery, as well as reports documenting an initial learning curve. This article will review the current state of technology and discuss our clinical experience.
A pictorial description of extralevator abdominoperineal excision for low rectal cancer
Authors: Shihab O. C. , Heald R. J. , Holm T. , How P. D. , Brown G. , Quirke P. , Moran B. J.
Published: July 2012

Aim  Extralevator abdominoperineal excision in the prone position has been reported as a method to improve the poor outcome sometimes observed after abdominoperineal excision (APE) for low rectal cancer. In this paper a pictorial guide is presented describing the key anatomical steps and landmarks of the operation.

Method  Intraoperative footage of five APE operations filmed in high definition was reviewed and key stages of the operation were identified. Still frames were captured from these sequences to illustrate this guide. An edited video sequence was produced from one of these operations to accompany this paper.

Conclusion  The prone APE allows improved visualization of the perineal portion of the operation by the surgeon, assistants and observers. It permits clear demonstration for teaching. Prospective evaluation is still required to identify patients who would benefit from extralevator APE.
External validation of the RENAL nephrometry score in renal tumours treated by partial nephrectomy
Authors: Long Jean‐Alexandre , Arnoux Valentin , Fiard Gaelle , Autorino Riccardo , Descotes Jean‐Luc , Rambeaud Jean‐Jacques , Boillot Bernard , Terrier Nicolas , Arvin‐Berod Alexis , Moreau‐Gaudry Alexandre
Published: July 2012

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Using a standardized classification for renal tumours is a major step towards an objective comparison of the indications and expected outcomes of partial nephrectomy (PN).

Several scores have been described, including the RENAL nephrectomy score (RNS), to evaluate the anatomical features of a renal tumour and predict the surgical challenges with particular regard to PN. Previous studies show discrepancies with regard to the effectiveness of using the RNS to predict postoperative outcomes. Although we showed that conversion to radical nephrectomy was predicted by the RNS, the occurence of complications was more difficult to predict.

Objective

To evaluate the RENAL nephrometry score (RNS) as a predictor of the perioperative outcomes of a partial nephrectomy.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective review of 177 consecutive patients who were candidates for an open partial nephrectomy (OPN, n = 159) or a laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN, n = 18) from August 2008 to January 2011 was undertaken.

Tumour complexity was stratified into three categories: low (4–6), moderate (7–9) and high (10–12) complexity.

Complications, and surgical and renal outcomes were recorded and analysed.

Predictors of conversion to radical nephrectomy (RN) and complications were assessed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Multiple linear regression was used to evaluate the prediction of postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and warm ischaemia time (WIT).

Results

The median RNS was 7 (interquartile range 6–9).

Tumour complexity was assessed as low in 72 (40.6%), moderate in 87 (49.2%) and high in 18 patients (10.2%).

There were no significant differences among the three groups with respect to demographic characteristics, operating time, estimated blood loss, transfusion, length of stay, complications and positive surgical margins. Conversion to RN occurred in 29 patients (16.3%).

RNS was significantly associated with an increased risk of conversion to RN (odds ratio [OR] = 3.5, P = 0.01 and OR = 6.7, P = 0.005, respectively, for moderate vs low, and high vs low complexity groups).

On multivariate analysis, RNS was the only independent predictor of WIT (P = 0.03) and conversion to RN (P = 0.008), but failed to predict postoperative eGFR (P = 0.84) and the occurrence of major complications (P = 0.91).

Conclusions

In the present series, RNS predicted an increased risk of conversion to RN and prolonged WIT.

RNS was not a predictor of complications and postoperative renal function.
The Impact of Anti‐Immigration Policies and Perceived Discrimination in the United States on Migration Intentions among Mexican Adolescents
Authors: Becerra David
Published: July 2012

This exploratory study examined whether higher levels of perceived discrimination against Mexican immigrants in the United States (USA) were related to the migration intentions of Mexican adolescents. I drew the data for this study from a sample of 755 from a total of 980 adolescent students surveyed in Tijuana, Mexico in February 2009, who indicated they had some interest to migrate to theUSAto either live or work in theUSA. There were 392 male participants (51.9%) and 363 female participants (48.1%), with a mean age of the participants of 16 years. Over 65 per cent of the participants were born in Tijuana, Mexico and over 62 per cent of the participants indicated that their families had very low to average socio‐economic status, as measured by anSESscale. The majority of participants' mothers (74.2%) and fathers (68.6%) had less than a high school education. MultivariateOLSregressions were run controlling for gender, age and socio‐economic status. Results indicated that higher levels of perceived discrimination in theUSAwere a moderately significant predictor of lower migration intentions among Mexican adolescents who identified that they wanted to live or work in theUSA, but higher levels of perceived discrimination did not significantly predict lower migration intentions among participants, who indicated that they felt they had to move to theUSAto work and support their families.
The complex interaction between breastfeeding and IQ: another piece in the puzzle
Authors: LATAL BEATRICE
Published: July 2012

This commentary is on the original article by Tozzi et al. on pages 843‐848 of this issue.
Ca2+ dysregulation in neurons from transgenic mice expressing mutant presenilin 2
Authors: Kipanyula Maulilio J. , Contreras Laura , Zampese Enrico , Lazzari Cristian , Wong Andrea K. C. , Pizzo Paola , Fasolato Cristina , Pozzan Tullio
Published: July 2012

Mutations in amyloid precursor protein (APP), and presenilin‐1 and presenilin‐2 (PS1 and PS2) have causally been implicated in Familial Alzheimer’s Disease (FAD), but the mechanistic link between the mutations and the early onset of neurodegeneration is still debated. Although no consensus has yet been reached, most data suggest that both FAD‐linked PS mutants and endogenous PSs are involved in cellular Ca2+ homeostasis. We here investigated subcellular Ca2+ handling in primary neuronal cultures and acute brain slices from wild type and transgenic mice carrying the FAD‐linked PS2‐N141I mutation, either alone or in the presence of the APP Swedish mutation. Compared with wild type, both types of transgenic neurons show a similar reduction in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ content and decreased response to metabotropic agonists, albeit increased Ca2+ release induced by caffeine. In both transgenic neurons, we also observed a higher ER–mitochondria juxtaposition that favors increased mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake upon ER Ca2+ release. A model is described that integrates into a unifying hypothesis the contradictory effects on Ca2+ homeostasis of different PS mutations and points to the relevance of these findings in neurodegeneration and aging.
Gender Differences in Pro‐Environmental Intentions: A Cross‐National Perspective on the Influence of Self‐Enhancement Values and Views on Technology*
Authors: Mobley Catherine , Kilbourne William
Published: July 2012

While many studies have addressed the complex relationship between gender and environmental constructs, few have attempted to determine just how gender influences environmentalism. We argue that the interaction of gender with other sociocultural variables must be examined. Our study includes two of these variables: technological values and self‐enhancement values. Study results indicate that the effect of gender on environmental intentions is moderated by these two variables. This is established in a multicountry study of college students in the United States, Canada, and Germany. In examining willingness to change consumption behaviors, when controlling for self‐enhancement or technological values, the gender effect holds only when there are high scores for the other variable. When technological or self‐enhancement scores are low, men and women are equally willing to change their intentions. The gender by technology effect was moderated somewhat by country. Thus, gender alone does not function independently in its impact on respondents’ willingness to change consumption behaviors. The study results have implications for future research on the relationship between gender and environmentalism and for environmental education efforts.
Accuracy of formulas used to predict post‐transfusion packed cell volume rise in anemic dogs
Authors: Short Jacqueline L. , Diehl Shenandoah , Seshadri Ravi , Serrano Sergi
Published: July 2012

Objective

To assess the accuracy of published formulas used to guide packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusions in anemic dogs and to compare the predicted rise in packed cell volume (PCV) to the actual post‐transfusion rise inPCV.

Design

Prospective observational study from April 2009 through July 2009.

Setting

A small animal emergency and specialty hospital.

Animals

Thirty‐one anemic client‐owned dogs that received pRBCtransfusions for treatment of anemia.

Interventions

None

Measurements

Four formulas were evaluated to determine their predictive ability with respect to rise inPCVfollowing transfusion with pRBC. Post‐transfusion rise inPCVwere compared to calculated rise inPCVusing 4 different formulas. Bias and limits of agreement were investigated using Bland–Altman analyses.

Results

Accuracy of existing formulas to predict rise inPCVfollowing transfusion varied significantly. Formula 1 (volume to be transfused [VT] [mL] = 1 mL × %PCVrise × kg body weight [BW]) overestimated the expected rise inPCV(mean difference, 6.30), while formula 2 (VT [mL] = 2 mL ×% PCV rise × kg BW) underestimated the rise inPCV(mean difference, –3.01). Formula 3 (VT [mL] = 90 mL × kg BW × [(desiredPCV– PatientPCV)/PCVof donor blood]) and formula 4 (VT [mL] = 1.5 mL ×% PCV rise × kg BW) performed well (mean difference 0.23 and 0.09, respectively) in predicting rise inPCVfollowing pRBCtransfusion.

Conclusions

Agreement between 2 formulas, “VT (mL) = kgBW× blood volume (90 mL) × [(desiredPCV– recipientPCV)/DonorPCV]” and “VT(mL) = 1.5 ×desired rise inPCV× kgBW,” was found when they were compared to the actual rise inPCVfollowing pRBCtransfusion in anemic dogs. Further research is warranted to determine whether these formulas perform similarly well for other species.
Retrospective evaluation of neurotoxic rattlesnake envenomation in dogs and cats: 34 cases (2005–2010)
Authors: Julius Tracy M. , Kaelble Monika K. , Leech Elizabeth B. , Boyle Kimberly L. , Strandberg Erika J. , Clare Monica C.
Published: July 2012

Objective

To describe common physical examination findings, clinicopathologic changes, treatment, and outcome in patients with evidence of neurotoxicity secondary to rattlesnake envenomation.

Design

Retrospective multicenter study (2005–2010).

Setting

Three private veterinary referral centers.

Animals

Thirty‐four client‐owned cats and dogs with evidence of neurotoxicity secondary to rattlesnake envenomation.

Interventions

None.

Measurements and Main Results

Patient signalment, approximate time between envenomation and presentation for veterinary evaluation, physical examination and clinicopathologic findings, treatments, serial neurologic assessment, duration of hospitalization, and outcome were recorded. Signs of neurotoxicity such as ataxia, postural deficits, muscle fasciculations, paresis, paralysis, or seizures were required for inclusion into the study. The incidence of neurotoxicity amongst the general population treated with antivenin for rattlesnake envenomation in this study was 5.4%. Crotalidae Polyvalent Immune Fabb and veterinary approved Antivenin (Crotalidae) Polyvalenta were both used in this study. There was no statistically significant difference between type of antivenin or number of vials of antivenin administered and neurologic status, length of hospitalization (LOH), or survival. Hypokalemia was a frequently identified complication, but the presence of hypokalemia did not have a statistically significant association with LOH or survival. Four of the 34 patients (11.8%) required positive pressure ventilation for signs consistent with respiratory paralysis; 2 of these patients survived to discharge. Overall mortality rate was 17.6%. Survival was not significantly different between dogs and cats. However, cats had a significantly longer LOH when compared with dogs (median LOH 3.5 d for cats, 2 d for dogs). Cats appear to be overrepresented in the subset of envenomated patients with neurotoxicity.

Conclusion

Although the incidence of neurotoxicity secondary to rattlesnake envenomation may be relatively low, patients can have rapid progression of their clinical signs and a higher mortality rate, necessitating timely and appropriate treatment. Patients treated for neurotoxicity secondary to envenomation appear to have a fair to good prognosis.
Comorbidity‐Polypharmacy Scoring Facilitates Outcome Prediction in Older Trauma Patients
Authors: Evans David C. , Cook Charles H. , Christy Jonathan M. , Murphy Claire V. , Gerlach Anthony T. , Eiferman Daniel , Lindsey David E. , Whitmill Melissa L. , Papadimos Thomas J. , Beery Paul R. , Steinberg Steven M. , Stawicki Stanislaw P. A.
Published: July 2012

Objectives

To determine the association between comorbidity–polypharmacy score (CPS) and clinical outcomes in a large sample of older trauma patients, focusing on outcome prognostication.

Design

The CPS combines number of preinjury medications and comorbidities to more objectively quantify the severity of comorbid conditions.

Setting

An urban tertiary care level 1 trauma center in the Midwest.

Participants

Trauma patients aged 45 and older.

Methods

Participants were stratified into four groups according to CPS ranges. Survival analyses were performed using Kaplan–Meier/Mantel‐Cox testing. Factors influencing mortality, complications, and survivor discharge destination were evaluated using analysis of covariance and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Records for 469 individuals (mean age 62.1, mean injury severity score 9.3) were reviewed. Higher CPS is associated with greater mortality, complications, longer hospital and intensive care unit stay, and need for discharge to a facility. Higher CPS is associated with lower 90‐day survival (Mantel‐Cox, P < .001). Mortality was independently associated with older age (odds ratio (OR) = 1.06 per year), higher injury severity score (OR = 1.19 per point), and higher CPS (OR = 1.11 per point) in multivariate analysis (all P < .01). Complications and need for discharge to a facility were independently associated with older age and higher injury severity score and CPS.

Conclusion

CPS can be readily determined in the era of medication reconciliation. Trauma patients with CPS of 15 or greater are at greater risk of poor clinical outcomes. CPS constitutes a useful adjunct to currently available injury severity scoring tools as a predictor of morbidity, mortality, hospital resource utilization, and postdischarge disposition in older trauma patients.
Meaning‐making with colour in multimodal texts: an 11‐year‐old student's purposeful ‘doing’
Authors: Pantaleo Sylvia
Published: July 2012

Colour, a visual element of art and design, is a semiotic mode that is used strategically by sign‐makers to communicate meaning. Understanding the meaning‐making potential of colour can enhance students’ understanding, appreciation, interpretation and composition of multimodal texts. This article features a case study of Anya, an 11‐year‐old student who participated in a classroom‐based research project that explored developing student visual meaning‐making skills and competencies by focusing specifically on a selection of visual elements of art and design in picture books and graphic novels. Excerpts from Anya's interview about her multimodal print text revealed that her intentional use of colour was affected by her participation in the learning opportunities afforded during the explorative study that included overt instruction about making meaning with colour. The semiotic analysis of Anya's use of colour in her multimodal text included a consideration of how the various distinctive features of colour were evident in her work. The article concludes with a discussion of pedagogical and assessment issues associated with teaching students about colour and other visual elements of art and design.
Effects and Control of Polymer‐Converted Carbon Impurity in Synthesizing Continuous Boron Nitride Nanofibers by Electrospinning
Authors: Qiu Yejun , Yu Jie , Yin Jing , Zhou Xiaosong
Published: July 2012

Application of polymer as thickener of precursor solution for preparing boron nitride (BN) nanofibers by electrospinning brings carbon impurity in the nitride products. The control and removal of the carbon impurity are a key step in the synthesis of the BN nanofibers. In this article, the control and removal of the carbon impurity are well realized by introducing O2 and NH3 simultaneously. The carbon content in the BN nanofibers can be well controlled by changing O2/NH3 ratio, temperature, time, and gas flow rate. The effects of the carbon impurity on the structure of the BN products are investigated systematically.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of 2,4,6‐Trihydroxychalcone Derivatives as Novel Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B Inhibitors
Authors: Sun Liang‐Peng , Gao Li‐Xin , Ma Wei‐Ping , Nan Fa‐Jun , Li Jia , Piao Hu‐Ri
Published: July 2012

A series of 2,4,6‐trihydroxychalcone derivatives were synthesized and identified as reversible and competitive protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) 1B inhibitors with IC50 values in the micromolar range. Compound 4a had the greatest in vitro inhibition activity against PTP1B (IC50 = 0.27 ± 0.01 μm) and the best selectivity (6.9‐fold) for PTP1B relative to T‐cell protein tyrosine phosphatases. The compounds identified herein provide a foundation on which to design specific inhibitors of PTP1B and other PTPs.
Ophthalmological findings in a closed herd of Lipizzaners
Authors: RUSHTON J. , TICHY A. , BREM G. , DRUML T. , NELL B.
Published: July 2012

Reasons for performing the study: There are no studies on the ophthalmic health status in the Lipizzaner breed.

Objective: To perform an ophthalmological survey in a closed herd in 3 housing systems.

Materials: All horses at the Federal Stud Piber, Heldenberg and the Spanish Riding School Vienna were subjected to ophthalmological examination. Findings were documented and correlated with factors such as age, gender, location and housing situation. The interrelation of abnormalities of different regions was determined by calculating accuracy. Pedigree analysis of horses affected by cataract was performed.

Results: A total of 267 horses met the inclusion criteria of this study. Of these, 172 horses were stabled in Piber, 72 in Vienna and 23 in Heldenberg. Ophthalmological examination revealed 203 cases with ocular findings, predominantly involving the conjunctiva (44.6%), cornea (21.7%) and fundus (37.5%). In 24 (8.9%) horses a diagnosis of cataract was made. There was no interrelation between different eye diseases. Horses stabled at Piber were significantly more affected by conjunctival and fundic abnormalities. Fewer abnormalities were found in horses stabled in open boxes. Access to free stalls resulted in more cases of conjunctivitis. Pedigree analysis showed no evidence of inbreeding as a cause of cataract formation.

Conclusion and potential relevance: Acquired corneal abnormalities were over‐represented in this study. This survey may serve as a basis for further research on the pathogenesis of ophthalmic diseases in Lipizzaners.
A detection-theoretic framework for modeling informational masking
Authors: Lutfi Robert A. , Chang An-Chieh , Stamas Jacob , Gilbertson Lynn
Published: July 2012

There has been growing interest in recent years in masking that appears to have its origin at a central level of the auditory nervous system—so-called informational masking (IM). Masker uncertainty and target-masker similarity have been identified as the two major factors affecting IM; however, no theoretical framework currently exists that would give precise meaning to these terms necessary to evaluate their relative importance or model their effects. The present paper offers a first attempt at such a framework constructed within the doctrines of the theory of signal detection.
Attenuated Vaccines Can Recombine to Form Virulent Field Viruses
Authors: Lee Sang-Won , Markham Philip F. , Coppo Mauricio J. C. , Legione Alistair R. , Markham John F. , Noormohammadi Amir H. , Browning Glenn F. , Ficorilli Nino , Hartley Carol A. , Devlin Joanne M.
Published: July 2012

Problems can arise when vaccines and wild strains of a chicken herpesvirus recombine.
Challenges to the Future Conservation of the Antarctic
Authors: Chown S. L. , Lee J. E. , Hughes K. A. , Barnes J. , Barrett P. J. , Bergstrom D. M. , Convey P. , Cowan D. A. , Crosbie K. , Dyer G. , Frenot Y. , Grant S. M. , Herr D. , Kennicutt M. C. , Lamers M. , Murray A. , Possingham H. P. , Reid K. , Riddle M. J. , Ryan P. G. , Sanson L. , Shaw J. D. , Sparrow M. D. , Summerhayes C. , Terauds A. , Wall D. H.
Published: July 2012

Changing environments and resource demands present challenges to Antarctic conservation.
Higgs Boson Makes Its Debut After Decades-Long Search
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: July 2012

Last week's announcement that physicists at the European particle physics laboratory, CERN, had discovered the Higgs boson could mark the end of the road for particle physics.
Commission Spreads Blame for ‘Manmade’ Disaster
Authors: Normile Dennis
Published: July 2012

A commission set up by Japan's parliament last week blamed Tokyo Electric Power Co. and government regulators for what it called the "manmade" disaster at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant.
Earth and Planetary Scientists Search for Common Ground
Authors: Kintisch Eli
Published: July 2012

A unique 4-day meeting cosponsored by four separate NASA science divisions sought to forge closer ties between the earth and planetary science communities.
A Southern HIV/AIDS Program With All the Fixins
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: July 2012

Here in the heart of the Deep South, the University of Alabama, Birmingham, has built a full-service HIV/AIDS center modeled on the widely praised program at San Francisco General Hospital.
By the People, For the People
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: July 2012

My Brother's Keeper is the only community-based organization in Mississippi that focuses on those who bear the brunt of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the state: young black men who have sex with men.
A Concerted Effort to Lighten the Load
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: July 2012

The San Francisco Department of Public Health has mapped the amount of virus in every neighborhood and risk group, which helps guide both treatment and prevention efforts.
Miracle on 34th Street: Success With Injectors
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: July 2012

Although New York City's population of injecting drug users has dwindled to an estimated 100,000, the main reason for the steep drop in HIV incidence, currently only 1%, is that users stopped sharing needles.
HIV/AIDS Response Renovated in Capital
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: July 2012

Although Washington, D.C., remains among the hardest-hit cities in the nation, a recent report says it "has made steady and significant improvements in its overall response to HIV/AIDS."
In Vitro
and
In Vivo
Characterization of CB-183,315, a Novel Lipopeptide Antibiotic for Treatment of Clostridium difficile
Authors: Mascio Carmela T. M. , Mortin Lawrence I. , Howland Karen T. , Van Praagh Andrew D. G. , Zhang Shuxin , Arya Anu , Chuong Cun Lan , Kang Chunfeng , Li Tongchuan , Silverman Jared A.
Published: July 2012

CB-183,315 is a novel lipopeptide antibiotic structurally related to daptomycin currently in phase 3 clinical development for
Clostridium difficile
-associated diarrhea (CDAD). We report here the
in vitro
mechanism of action, spontaneous resistance incidence, resistance by serial passage, time-kill kinetics, postantibiotic effect, and efficacy of CB-183,315 in a hamster model of lethal infection.
In vitro
data showed that CB-183,315 dissipated the membrane potential of
Staphylococcus aureus
without inducing changes in membrane permeability to small molecules. The rate of spontaneous resistance to CB-183,315 at 8× the MIC was below the limit of detection in
C. difficile
. Under selective pressure by serial passage with CB-183,315 against
C. difficile
, the susceptibility of the bacteria changed no more than 2-fold during 15 days of serial passages. At 16× the MIC, CB-183,315 produced a ≥3-log reduction of
C. difficile
in the time-kill assay. The postantibiotic effect of CB-183,315 at 8× the MIC was 0.9 h. At 80× the MIC the postantibiotic effect was more than 6 h. In the hamster model of CDAD, CB-183,315 and vancomycin both demonstrated potent efficacy in resolving initial disease onset, even at very low doses. After the conclusion of dosing, CB-183,315 and vancomycin showed a similar dose- and time-dependent pattern with respect to rates of CDAD recurrence.
A study of the Willgerodt–Kindler reaction to obtain thioamides and α-ketothioamides under solvent-less conditions
Authors: Valdez-Rojas José Ernesto , Ríos-Guerra Hulme , Ramírez-Sánchez Alma Leticia , García-González Guadalupe , Álvarez-Toledano Cecilio , López-Cortés José Guadalupe , Toscano Rubén A. , Penieres-Carrillo José Guillermo
Published: July 2012

In this paper, the results obtained in the synthesis of thioamides and α-ketothioamides by a modification of the Willgerodt–Kindler reaction, under solvent-free and noncatalyst conditions using IR energy as a source of activation, are presented. The use of IR energy in these reactions has been shown to lead to a mixture of thioamide and α-ketothioamide as the main products in most cases, with the latter predominating. The yields of α-ketothioamides from most of these reactions are better than those reported previously. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that IR energy has been applied to promote the Willgerodt–Kindler reaction.
A thermoresponsive amphiphilic dendron — Synthesis, characterization, and self-assembled micelles for controlled drug release
Authors: Xu Li , Shao Lidong , Hu Minqi , Chen Lin , Bi Yunmei
Published: July 2012

A new third-generation thermoresponsive amphiphilic dendron consisting of a hydrophobic poly(benzyl ether) dendritic core and hydrophilic oligo(ethylene glycol) peripheries was synthesized by an efficient convergent approach. Its structure was confirmed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, IR, GPC, MALDI-TOF MS, and elemental analysis. Turbidity and dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements demonstrated that the dendron showed a reversible temperature-dependent phase-transition behavior in aqueous solution and its lower critical solution temperature (LCST) was lower than that of the corresponding second-generation dendron, indicating the dependence of LCSTs on the generation of dendrons. Fluorescent spectroscopy and TEM studies revealed that the dendron would self-assemble into nanospherical micelles with a very low critical micelle concentration (CMC) in water. The core-shell structure of the micelles was proved by 1H NMR analyses of the micelles in D2O. The drug-loading capacity of the dendron micelles is about 29 wt % for podophyllotoxin (POD) used as a model drug, and in vitro release tests showed a desired thermoresponsive drug-release behavior. These results indicate that the dendron is promising as stimuli-responsive material for biomedical applications.
InAs Quantum Dot Growth on a Thin GaNP Buffer Layer on GaP by Metalorganic Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Miyamoto Tomoyuki , Tanabe Satoru , Nishio Rei , Kobayashi Yoshitaka , Suzuki Ryoichiro
Published: July 2012

InAs quantum dots (QDs) on a 2-nm-thick GaNP buffer layer on GaP were investigated using low-pressure metalorganic chemical vapor deposition. The InAs QDs density was significantly increased from 2.6×109 to 2.0×1010 cm-2 by increasing the nitrogen composition from 0 to 4.5% in GaNP. The formation characteristics of InAs QDs were also investigated at various InAs supply amounts from 0.7 to 2.5 monolayers (ML). The generation of QDs on the GaNP and GaP buffer layers started at the InAs supplies of 1.0 and 1.1 ML, respectively. Since the lattice mismatches were large, these supply amounts were definitely smaller than that on GaAs.
Self-Mixing Interference Effect in a Microchip Solid-State Vector Laser
Authors: Otsuka Kenju
Published: July 2012

The self-mixing interference effect in a laser-diode (LD)-pumped microchip solid-state polarization vector laser has been examined in the laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV) scheme. Distinct enhancement of the LDV signal in the laser output power spectrum, which corresponds to the self-mixing intensity modulation, has been observed as compared with a linearly polarized laser subjected to a common moving target.
Prediction of Influence of Oxygen in Annealing Atmosphere on Surface Segregation Behavior in Layered Materials
Authors: Yoshitake Michiko
Published: July 2012

It has often been observed that an element locating in an underlayer can segregate to the top surface of a layered structure. Whether in a vacuum or inert atmosphere, a method for predicting such segregation has been previously established. However, the annealing of a layered structure is sometimes carried out in an oxygen atmosphere. Therefore, the influence of oxygen in an annealing atmosphere upon the surface segregation behavior in layered materials is discussed here in. The energetics of oxygen adsorption onto each element within a layered material is considered. A formula for the prediction of surface segregation under an oxygen atmosphere is proposed. By introducing a general method to estimate the oxygen adsorption energy to metals and elemental semiconductors, some prediction examples are provided and are compared with experimental results.
Theory and network applications of balanced kautz tree structures
Authors: Guo Deke , Liu Yunhao , Jin Hai , Liu Zhong , Zhang Weiming , Liu Hui
Published: July 2012

In order to improve scalability and to reduce the maintenance overhead for structured peer-to-peer (P2P) networks, researchers have proposed architectures based on several interconnection networks with a fixed-degree and a logarithmical diameter. Among existing fixed-degree interconnection networks, the Kautz digraph has many distinctive topological properties compared to others. It, however, requires that the number of peers have the some given values, determined by peer degree and network diameter. In practice, we cannot guarantee how many peers will join a P2P network at a given time, since a P2P network is typically dynamic with peers frequently entering and leaving. To address such an issue, we propose the balanced Kautz tree and Kautz ring structures. We further design a novel structured P2P system, called BAKE, based on the two structures that has the logarithmical diameter and constant degree, even the number of peers is an arbitrary value. By keeping a total ordering of peers and employing a robust locality-preserved resource placement strategy, resources that are similar in a single or multidimensional attributes space are stored on the same peer or neighboring peers. Through analysis and simulation, we show that BAKE achieves the optimal diameter and as good a connectivity as the Kautz digraph does (almost achieves the Moore bound), and supports the exact as well as the range queries efficiently. Indeed, the structures of balanced Kautz tree and Kautz ring we propose can also be applied to other interconnection networks after minimal modifications, for example, the de Bruijn digraph.
Towards a formal foundation of behavioral types for UML state-machines
Authors: Blech Jan Olaf , Schätz Bernhard
Published: July 2012

Behavioral types for model-based development comprise abstract behavioral aspects of the models they are associated with. Behavioral types allow checking that a model fulfills these behavioral aspects. Furthermore, as types can be related with each other, they support more complex checks and guarantees like compatibility in composition and refinement of models in a model based development process.

We propose a behavioral type system and explain its properties, specically targeting a subset of UML state-machines. We present an early implementation that generates behavioral type definitions out of an Eclipse-based modeling environment. These type definitions are generated for the higher-order proof assistant Coq as files. We present checking and comparison techniques based on these files for behavioral aspects that can be derived from the model definition.
A simulator to assess energy saving strategies and policies in HPC workloads
Authors: Dolz Manuel F. , Fernández Juan C. , Iserte Sergio , Mayo Rafael , Quintana-Ortí Enrique S.
Published: July 2012

In recent years power consumption of high performance computing (HPC) clusters has become a growing problem due, e.g., to the economic cost of electricity, the emission of carbon dioxide (with negative impact on the environment), and the generation of heat (which reduces hardware reliability). In past work, we developed EnergySaving cluster, a software package that regulates the number of active nodes in an HPC facility to match the users' demands. In this paper, we extend this work by presenting a simulator for this tool that allows the evaluation and analysis of the benefits of applying different energy-saving strategies and policies, under realistic workloads, to different cluster configurations.
Self-management of cloud applications and infrastructure for energy optimization
Authors: de Oliveira Frederico Alvares , Ledoux Thomas
Published: July 2012

As a direct consequence of the increasing popularity of Cloud Computing solutions, data centers are amazingly growing and hence have to urgently face with the energy consumption issue. Available solutions rely on Cloud Computing models and virtualization techniques to scale up/down application based on their performance metrics. Although those proposals can reduce the energy footprint of applications and by transitivity of cloud infrastructures, they do not consider the internal characteristics of applications to finely define a trade-off between applications Quality of Service and energy footprint. In this paper, we propose a self-adaptation approach that considers both application internals and system to reduce the energy footprint in cloud infrastructure. Each application and the infrastructure are equipped with their own control loop, which allows them to autonomously optimize their executions. Simulations show that the approach may lead to appreciable energy savings without interfering on application provider revenues.
Cloud SLAs
Authors: Baset Salman A.
Published: July 2012

The variability in the service level agreements (SLAs) of cloud providers prompted us to ask the question how do the SLAs compare and how should the SLAs be defined for future cloud services. We break down a cloud SLA into easy to understand components and use it to compare SLAs of public cloud providers. Our study indicates that none of the surveyed cloud providers offer any performance guarantees for compute services and leave SLA violation detection to the customer. We then provide guidance on how SLAs should be defined for future cloud services.
Switched Exponential State Estimation and Robust Stability for Interval Neural Networks with Discrete and Distributed Time Delays
Authors: Xu Hongwen , Wu Huaiqin , Li Ning
Published: July 2012

The interval exponential state estimation and robust exponential stability for the switched interval neural networks with discrete and distributed time
delays are considered. Firstly, by combining the theories of the switched systems and the interval neural networks, the mathematical model of the switched interval neural networks with discrete and distributed time delays and the interval estimation error system are established. Secondly, by applying the augmented Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional approach and available output measurements, the dynamics of estimation error system is proved to be globally exponentially stable for all admissible time delays. Both the existence conditions and the explicit characterization of desired estimator are derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Moreover, a delay‐dependent criterion is also developed, which guarantees the robust exponential stability of the switched interval neural networks with discrete and distributed time delays. Finally, two numerical examples are provided to illustrate the validity of the theoretical results.
In Utero Fetal Ovarian Torsion with Imaging Findings on Ultrasound and MRI
Authors: Sheth Ripple , Hoelzer Dennis , Scattergood Emily , Germaine Pauline
Published: July 2012

Early diagnosis of ovarian torsion is critical in avoiding complications and planning management. Therefore, it is important to understand and assess the imaging findings of ovarian torsion. Ultrasound is the imaging modality of choice; however, it is not always definitive and diagnosis can be challenging. MRI is a better imaging modality to evaluate for signs of complications and to arrive at a more definitive diagnosis. We present a case of in utero ovarian torsion diagnosed during routine prenatal ultrasound with imaging findings on ultrasound and MRI postnatally.
Multiple Large Tumefactive MS Plaques in a Young Man: A Diagnostic Enigma and Therapeutic Challenge
Authors: Kalanie Hossein , Harandi Ali Amini , Bakhshandehpour Reza , Heidari Daryoosh
Published: July 2012

Tumefactive demyelinating lesion is defined as large solitary demyelinating lesion with imaging characteristics mimicking neoplasm. These atypical features include size more than 2 cm, mass effect, edema, and/or ring enhancement. Distinguishing tumefactive lesions from other etiologies of intracranial space occupying lesions is essential to avoid inadvertent surgical or toxic chemotherapeutic intervention. Symptoms are generally atypical for multiple sclerosis (MS) and usually related to the pressure of a focal mass lesion without a history of MS. The clinical presentation and MRI appearance of these lesions often lead to biopsy. Here, we present a young man with fulminating neurological symptoms and multiple large tumefactive lesions on either hemisphere. Since patient and parents were not agreed on brain biopsy, a course of steroid therapy was commenced which ended to considerable improvement and confirmed the diagnosis of tumefactive MS. Thirteen months later, he experienced another relapse when his treatment was continued by weekly intramuscular injection of interferon b1a (Avonex). Two further MRIs showed shrinkage of tumefactive plaques and resolution of edema in the periphery of lesions.