bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantification of cyanogenic glycosides in white clover (Trifolium repens L.) from horse pastures in relation to equine grass sickness
Authors: McGorum B. C. , Pirie R. S. , Fry S. C.
Published: January 2012

As a preliminary step in testing the hypothesis that ingestion of cyanogenic glycosides in white clover (Trifolium repens L.) may be one of the risk factors for equine grass sickness (EGS, or equine dysautonomia), the cyanogen content of clover leaves collected from fields (n = 16) soon after an occurrence of EGS was compared with that of (i) control white clover samples (n = 10) collected from the same fields out of the disease period and (ii) control clover samples (n = 54) collected sequentially from three control fields. Clover samples from EGS fields were highly cyanogenic, with a median cyanide potential of 497 (range 307–1786) mg kg dry matter−1. Furthermore, clover collected from EGS fields soon after an occurrence of EGS had significantly higher concentrations of the cyanogenic glycosides linamarin and lotaustralin than control samples. While these findings indicate that horses grazing EGS fields may ingest significant quantities of cyanogenic glycosides, the design of the study does not facilitate investigation of any potential association between cyanogens and EGS. Further study is therefore required to determine whether cyanogens are a risk factor for EGS or whether these findings simply reflect variations in plant metabolism unrelated to disease pathogenesis.
In vitro rumen methane output of perennial ryegrass varieties and perennial grass species harvested throughout the growing season
Authors: Purcell P. J. , O’Brien M. , Navarro‐Villa A. , Boland T. M. , McEvoy M. , Grogan D. , O’Kiely P.
Published: January 2012

The selection and feeding of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) varieties (PRV) or perennial grass species (PGS) may affect enteric methane (CH4) output because of changes in the fermentation dynamics in the rumen as a result of differences in herbage chemical composition. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of PRV and PGS harvested throughout the growing season on herbage chemical composition, and in vitro rumen fermentation variables and CH4 output per unit of feed using a batch culture technique. Seven PRV (Experiment 1: Alto, Arrow, Bealey, Dunluce, Greengold, Malone, Tyrella) and six perennial grasses [Experiment 2: perennial ryegrass (Navan), perennial ryegrass (Portstewart), cocksfoot, meadow fescue, tall fescue, timothy; defined as PGS], managed under a simulated grazing regime, were incubated for 24 h with buffered rumen fluid in two separate experiments. The CH4 output per unit of feed dry‐matter (DM) incubated was not affected (P > 0·05) by PRV (range of mean values across PRV of 23·9–25·3 (SEM 0·41) mL g−1 DM) or by PGS (25·6–26·6 (SEM 0·37) mL g−1 DM). The CH4 output per unit feed DM disappearing during the in vitro rumen incubation was not affected by PRV (33·9–35·1 (SEM 0·70) mL g−1 DM), and although there was an overall PGS effect (P < 0·05; 37·2–40·3 (SEM 0·71) mL g−1 DM), none of the paired contrasts between PGS were significant when analysed using Tukey adjusted comparisons. This outcome reflected either small‐scale or a lack of treatment effects on individual herbage chemical composition (e.g. 454–483 g NDF kg−1 DM, 215–224 g CP kg−1 DM and 94–122 g water‐soluble carbohydrate (WSC) kg−1 DM across PRV; 452–506 g NDF kg−1 DM, 208–243 g CP kg−1 DM and 73–131 g WSC kg−1 DM across PGS) and in vitro rumen fermentation variables. Hence, these results provide no encouragement that choices among the grasses examined, produced within the management regimes operated, would reduce enteric CH4 output per unit of feed in vivo. However, the technique utilized did not take account of animal × PRV or PGS interactions, such as potential differences in intake between animals, that may occur under farm conditions.
Tetradecylthioacetic acid modulates cardiac transcription in Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., suffering heart and skeletal muscle inflammation
Authors: Grammes F , Rørvik K‐A , Takle H
Published: January 2012

Heart and skeletal muscle inflammation (HSMI) is a disease causing considerable mortality in farmed Atlantic salmon. We have previously reported that pre‐feeding of tetradecylthioacetic acid (TTA) reduces the mortality during a natural outbreak of HSMI. In the present paper we show that in the cardiac ventricle, during HSMI infection, pre‐feeding TTA increases the expression of the immune genes: TNFα, VCAM‐1, IgM and CD8α. We also show that TTA increases the cardiosomatic index potentially by elevating cardiomyogenesis through activation of the cardiac transcription factors MEF2C and Nkx2.5. Using the recently published genomic sequence of a HSMI associated piscine reovirus (PRV), we could show that the PRV levels have no confounding effects on the mRNA expression of the investigated genes. The results suggest that TTA induced cardiac growth, together with an elevated cardiac recruitment of immune cells, which might lead to increased robustness during HSMI infection.
Nutrition and health of aquaculture fish
Authors: Oliva‐Teles A
Published: January 2012

Under intensive culture conditions, fish are subject to increased stress owing to environmental (water quality and hypoxia) and health conditions (parasites and infectious diseases). All these factors have negative impacts on fish well‐being and overall performance, with consequent economic losses. Though good management practices contribute to reduce stressor effects, stress susceptibility is always high under crowded conditions. Adequate nutrition is essential to avoid deficiency signs, maintain adequate animal performance and sustain normal health. Further, it is becoming evident that diets overfortified with specific nutrients [amino acids, essential fatty acids (FAs), vitamins or minerals] at levels above requirement may improve health condition and disease resistance. Diet supplements are also being evaluated for their antioxidant potential, as fish are potentially at risk of peroxidative attack because of the large quantities of highly unsaturated FAs in both fish tissues and diets. Functional constituents other than essential nutrients (such as probiotics, prebiotics and immunostimulants) are also currently being considered in fish nutrition aiming to improve fish growth and/or feed efficiency, health status, stress tolerance and resistance to diseases. Such products are becoming more and more important for reducing antibiotic utilization in aquafarms, as these have environmental impacts, may accumulate in animal tissues and increase bacterial resistance. This study reviews knowledge of the effect of diet nutrients on health, welfare and improvement of disease resistance in fish.
Visual perceptual strengths and weaknesses in adults with intellectual disabilities compared with a birth year‐matched norm
Authors: Ikeda K. , Kasugai H. , Yamaguchi A. , Uchino Y. , Katase H. , Kanno A.
Published: January 2012

Background  The ventral and dorsal streams are considered to be the brain substrates of vision for perception and action, respectively. Using the Developmental Test of Visual Perception (DTVP), the current study examined whether visual perceptual strengths and weaknesses in adults with intellectual disabilities (ID) were attributable to the dichotomy of the visual streams.

Method  In study 1, DTVP performance was compared among mild, moderate and severe adult ID groups; study 2 contrasted adult ID groups with and without Down syndrome (DS). To prevent possible contamination by the Flynn effect, participants were matched by birth year with the norm of the DTVP original edition.

Results  Independent of the extent of ID among the three groups in study 1 and the aetiological group difference in study 2, relative strength was found for two DTVP tasks: eye–hand coordination and distinguishing target figures from interference background. Relative weakness was obtained in identifying a figural category. Participants with DS demonstrated exceptional weakness in discerning a target from either mirror‐imaged or rotated alternatives, in addition to figural‐category detection.

Conclusions  Visual perceptual strengths and weaknesses in persons with ID were difficult to explain on the basis of two visual streams. An interpretation originating in a different research context (e.g. frontal‐lobe dysfunction) appears to be required for explaining visual perceptual weaknesses in persons with ID. For persons with DS, strong frontal‐lobe dysfunction with atypical lateralisation might be the pathological determinant of visual perceptual weaknesses.
Secondary students with moderate/severe intellectual disability: considerations of curriculum and post‐school outcomes from the National Longitudinal Transition Study‐2
Authors: Bouck E. C.
Published: January 2012

Background  A conversation currently exists regarding secondary curriculum (e.g. academics, functional) for students with moderate/severe intellectual disability (ID) without a large research base connecting curriculum to outcomes.

Method  This study represented a secondary analysis of the National Longitudinal Transition Study‐2 (NLTS2) data to understand in‐school curriculum and educational programming for secondary students with moderate/severe ID as well as the relationship between curriculum and students' post‐school outcomes. Statistical procedures such as frequency distributions, a significance test and logistic regression were utilised to analyse secondary data from the NLTS2.

Results  The results suggest the majority of students with moderate/severe ID received a functional curriculum as well as instruction in core content areas; however, their instruction primarily occurred in pull‐out educational settings. The students also reported low rates for the post‐school outcomes examined (i.e. independent living, employment and post‐secondary attendance). Finally, curriculum (functional vs. academics) was not related to any post‐school outcome examined (e.g. independent living, employment).

Conclusions  The data suggest additional research is needed to understand what factors impact post‐school outcomes for students with moderate/severe ID. Yet – and regardless of the lack of impact – additional work is needed to help students achieve better post‐school outcomes, including further examination of curriculum and instructional environments.
Pharmacokinetic profile and pharmacodynamic effects of romifidine hydrochloride in the horse
Authors: WOJTASIAK‐WYPART M. , SOMA L. R. , RUDY J. A. , UBOH C. E. , BOSTON R. C. , DRIESSEN B.
Published: January 2012

Wojtasiak‐Wypart, M., Soma, L. R., Rudy, J. A., Uboh, C. E., Boston, R. C., Driessen, B. Pharmacokinetic profile and pharmacodynamic effects of romifidine hydrochloride in the horse.J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap. 35, 478–488.

Romifidine HCl (romifidine) is an α2‐agonist commonly used in horses. This study was undertaken to investigate the pharmacokinetics (PK) of romifidine following intravenous (i.v.) administration and describe the relationship between PK parameters and simultaneously recorded pharmacodynamic (PD) parameters. Romifidine (80 μg/kg) was administered by i.v. infusion over 2 min to six adult Thoroughbred horses, and plasma samples were collected and analyzed using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry. Limit of quantification was <0.1 ng/mL. PD parameters and arterial blood gases were measured for 300 min following romifidine administration. Statistical PD data analysis included mixed‐effect modeling. After i.v. administration of romifidine, the plasma concentration‐vs.‐time curve was best described by a two‐compartmental model. Terminal elimination half‐life (t1/2β) was 138.2 (104.6–171.0) min and volumes for central (Vc) and peripheral (V2) compartments were 1.89 (0.93–2.39) and 2.57 (1.71–4.19) L/kg, respectively. Maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) was 51.9 ± 13.1 ng/mL measured at 4 min following commencement of drug administration. Systemic clearance (Cl) was 32.4 (25.5‐38.4) mL·min/kg. Romifidine caused a significant reduction in heart rate and cardiac index and an increase in mean arterial pressure (P < 0.05). Sedation score and head height values were significantly different from the baseline values for 120 min (P < 0.05). The decline in cardiovascular and sedative effects correlated with the decline in plasma romifidine concentration (P < 0.05). In conclusion, a highly sensitive analytical technique for the detection of romifidine in equine plasma allowed detailed description of its PK profile. The drug produces long‐lasting sedation in horses that corresponds with the long terminal elimination half‐life of the drug.
Bladder contractility and urethral resistance relation: What does a pressure flow study tell us?
Authors: Sekido Noritoshi
Published: January 2012

Hydrodynamic analysis of a pressure flow study is the only reliable method to determine the presence or absence of a bladder outlet obstruction, especially benign prostatic obstruction. To interpret the results of pressure flow study in benign prostatic obstruction, understanding the outlines of the basic theory about evaluation of the relationship between bladder contractility and urethral resistance relation is of paramount importance. In contrast, hydrodynamic analysis of pressure flow study in conditions other than benign prostatic obstruction is complicated by the limits of theories about the hydrodynamics of the lower urinary tract. In this review, the proposed hydrodynamic theories about the relationship between bladder contractility and urethral resistance relation are outlined. Then, problems encountered in the application of hydrodynamic analysis of pressure flow study to diseases other than benign prostatic obstruction are discussed.
Gunpowder, the Prince of Wales's feathers and the origins of modern military surgery
Authors: Pearn John
Published: January 2012

Background:  The history of military surgery claims many forebears. The first surgeon‐soldiers were Homer's Machaon and Podalirius, followed a thousand years later by the Roman surgeons‐general, Antonius Musa and Euphorbus; and later, e.g. Ambrose Paré, John Hunter and Sir John Pringle; and the 19th century innovators, Dominique‐Jean Larrey (France), Friedrich von Esmarch (Prussia) and the Russian, Nikolai Pirogoff. The singular feature that distinguished modern military surgery from its earlier practice was the use of gunpowder. It was one of two inventions (the other was printing) that by the empowerment of individuals, lifted Western humankind from the medieval to the modern era.

Methods:  Research of primary and secondary archives.

Results and conclusion:  Gunpowder was first used in European warfare at Algeceras (1344–1368). Hitherto, the destruction of tissue had been the result of (relative) low‐energy wounding with tissue damage caused by incisional or crushing wounds. The founder of modern surgery, Master John of Arderne (1307–1380), wrote of his experience gained as a military surgeon on the battlefield at Crecy (1346). Following Crecy, Arderne was the only chronicler who described the origins of the Prince of Wales's feathers as a royal and later commercial symbol, and the motto ‘Ich Dien’, ‘I serve’, as that of hospitals in the Western World. Later advances in military surgery incorporated both clinical experimentation and the innovation of new systems of pre‐hospital battlefield care.
Outcomes of the management of post‐chemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection‐associated anejaculation
Authors: Hsiao Wayland , Deveci Serkan , Mulhall John P.
Published: January 2012

Study Type – Outcomes (cohort)

Level of Evidence 2b

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

Modern surgical techniques have allowed preservation of fertility in most patients after post‐chemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (PC‐RPLND), but some patients still have infertility after surgery. We reviewed our experience treating infertility in 26 men after PC‐RPLND. Using a structured clinical pathway we obtained sperm in 81% of men for use in assisted reproduction.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of a clinical pathway on sperm retrieval outcomes in patients presenting with infertility after post‐chemotherapy (PC) retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We carried out a retrospective review of patients with advanced testicular cancer, presenting with infertility after PC‐RPLND in a large reproductive urology practice.

We implemented a clinical pathway where pseudoephedrine was first administered. If this medication failed, electroejaculation (EEJ) and/or testicular sperm extraction (TESE) was carried out.

The primary outcome was retrieval of sperm for use in assisted reproduction.

RESULTS

Four men had retrograde ejaculation, of whom two converted to antegrade ejaculation with medical therapy.

In all, 22 patients had failure of emission (FOE) and, of these, no patient converted to antegrade ejaculation with medication.

In patients with FOE, sperm was found in 15/20 of those experiencing a successful EEJ.

Seven patients underwent TESE for azoospermia on EEJ or no ejaculate on EEJ, three of whom had sperm found on TESE.

Sperm was found for assisted reproduction in 81% (21/26) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

There appears to be no role for the use of pseudoephedrine therapy in patients with FOE after PC‐RPLND.

The use of a structured clinical pathway may optimize patient care.
PCA: Prostate Cancer, Patient‐Centred Approach or both?
Authors: Denis Louis , Joniau Steven , Bossi Alberto , Baskin‐Bey Edwina , Fitzpatrick John M.
Published: January 2012

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

Several studies have explored patient‐specific expectations of prostate cancer management, while others have investigated physicians' perceptions. However, the opinions of both groups have seldom been compared in one study. Therefore, the present study compares the results of two surveys, one among physicians and one among patients, on patient–physician communication and patients' expectations of prostate cancer management.

The present review aims to highlight the differences and similarities in opinion on prostate cancer management between physicians and patients. It reflects the most important results of two surveys on patient‐specific expectations in prostate cancer management, done among European prostate cancer specialists and patients with prostate cancer. These results are compared with published data. In addition, the authors' opinion on the survey results and on optimal prostate cancer management is included.

To evaluate differences and similarities in opinions on and expectations of prostate cancer management between physicians and patients. Two surveys on patient‐specific opinions and expectations in prostate cancer management were done in 2011 among European prostate cancer specialists and patients with prostate cancer. Survey results were complemented with existing published data and with the authors' opinion. Most specialists spent 15–29 min on delivering the diagnosis, and about the same amount of time on explaining treatment options. This time was considered insufficient by 35% and 48% of patients, respectively. There was a large discrepancy between physicians' and patients' opinions about the type of provided prognostic and therapeutic information, indicating that patients may not have completely understood this information. Shared decision‐making was preferred by both patients and specialists. Treatment efficacy was the most important factor determining treatment choice for both groups, while the physician's opinion or experience also had a great impact on patients' treatment choice. Patient‐support groups have an important role in providing relevant information and in exchanging experiences between patients. The supportive role of partners/relatives was more appreciated when discussing treatment options than during diagnosis. Although patients' expectations are generally matched by their caring physician(s), physicians can still improve quality of care by taking adequate time for their patients, by using terminology that is easily understood by patients and by encouraging shared decision‐making. A multidisciplinary team may be an important part of the treatment paradigm, with the individual patient's needs and preferences as the centre of care.
Natural history of lower urinary tract symptoms in Japanese men from a 15‐year longitudinal community‐based study
Authors: Fukuta Fumimasa , Masumori Naoya , Mori Mitsuru , Tsukamoto Taiji
Published: January 2012

Study Type – Symptom prevalence (cohort)

Level of Evidence 2b

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

There have been few longitudinal community‐based studies on LUTS suggestive of BPH. It is important to determine the natural history of LUTS suggestive of BPH among men in various countries because it is known that there are differences according to race. Although we previously reported a cross‐sectional community‐based survey on LUTS suggestive of BPH in Japanese men, no longitudinal data were available.

The present study provides 15‐year longitudinal data on LUTS suggestive of BPH and related variables in Japanese men.

OBJECTIVE

To report the natural history of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)/lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in Japanese men.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From 1992 to 1993, we conducted a cross‐sectional community‐based study on LUTS suggestive of BPH in Japanese men aged 40–79 years.

After 15 fifteen years, a follow‐up study was conducted to determine their longitudinal changes of LUTS.

Of the 319 participants taking part in the initial study, 135 participated again in the follow‐up study.

We investigated International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality of life index and bother score using a questionnaire, and measured prostate volume (PV), prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level and peak urinary flow rate (Qmax) using a method that we have employed previously.

RESULTS

The change in the total IPSS during 15 years was significant (P= 0.001) and its mean (sd) annual change was 0.11 (0.40).

Although there was little change in the bother score, a significant correlation was observed between changes in the IPSS and bother score (r= 0.528, P < 0.001).

For the individual IPSS and bother scores, only changes in urgency, weak stream and nocturia were significant.

The changes in PV, PSA level and Qmax were significant.

The change in the total IPSS did not correlate with the changes in these variables.

CONCLUSION

In a 15‐year‐longitudinal community‐based study for Japanese men, we have shown that the IPSS and quality of life index deteriorated, PV and PSA level increased, and Qmax decreased.
The Pace of Vocabulary Growth Helps Predict Later Vocabulary Skill
Authors: Rowe Meredith L. , Raudenbush Stephen W. , Goldin‐Meadow Susan
Published: January 2012

Children vary widely in the rate at which they acquire words—some start slow and speed up, others start fast and continue at a steady pace. Do early developmental variations of this sort help predict vocabulary skill just prior to kindergarten entry? This longitudinal study starts by examining important predictors (socioeconomic status [SES], parent input, child gesture) of vocabulary growth between 14 and 46 months (n = 62) and then uses growth estimates to predict children’s vocabulary at 54 months. Velocity and acceleration in vocabulary development at 30 months predicted later vocabulary, particularly for children from low‐SES backgrounds. Understanding the pace of early vocabulary growth thus improves our ability to predict school readiness and may help identify children at risk for starting behind.
Developmental Changes and Individual Differences in Young Children’s Moral Judgments
Authors: Smetana Judith G. , Rote Wendy M. , Jambon Marc , Tasopoulos‐Chan Marina , Villalobos Myriam , Comer Jessamy
Published: January 2012

Developmental trajectories and individual differences in 70 American middle‐income 2½‐ to 4‐year olds’ moral judgments were examined 3 times across 1 year using latent growth modeling. At Wave 1, children distinguished hypothetical moral from conventional transgressions on all criteria, but only older preschoolers did so when rating deserved punishment. Children’s understanding of moral transgressions as wrong independent of authority grew over time. Greater surgency and effortful control were both associated with a better understanding of moral generalizability. Children higher in effortful control also grew more slowly in understanding that moral rules are not alterable and that moral transgressions are wrong independent of rules. Girls demonstrated sharper increases across time than boys in understanding the nonalterability of moral rules.
Distance and Voting: Evidence from Danish Municipalities
Authors: Bhatti Yosef
Published: January 2012

Living far from the assigned polling station possibly renders voting less convenient than if the polls are right around the corner. Using a cross‐sectional dataset of about 2.3 million potential voters, including the distances between each household and the assigned polling station, a substantial impact of distance on the propensity to vote is found. An individual living five kilometers from the polling station has a ten percentage‐point lower propensity to turnout than an individual living right next to it. The relationship between distance and turnout is found to be approximately logarithmic. Additionally, the impact of distance appears to be conditional on the availability of cars in the household. The policy implications of the results are discussed in the concluding section.
ECONOMIC FLOWS, SPATIAL FOLDS AND INTRA‐URBAN BORDERS: REFLECTIONS ON CITY CENTRE REDEVELOPMENT PLANS FROM A EUROPEAN BORDER STUDIES PERSPECTIVE
Authors: SPIERINGS BAS
Published: January 2012

The aim of recent redevelopment plans and projects for European city centres is to remove intra‐urban ‘borders’ and thereby to promote the profitability of cities. Consumer mobility within city centres is encouraged to facilitate flows of consumption capital and generate consumer spending. Contextualised by international border studies and related EU integration policies, the Van Heekplein redevelopment project in Enschede, the Netherlands, is discussed here to scrutinise the redevelopment focus on economic ‘flows’ in city centres. The paper brings to the fore how European border studies speak to city centre plans and their redevelopment focus – resulting in a critique for ignoring the social production of borders. To achieve a more comprehensive understanding of consumer (im)mobility in city centres and processes of bordering, the paper proposes a perspective on borders as spatial ‘folds’. Analysing four types of folding – the folding of ‘bodies’, ‘forces’, ‘knowledge’ and ‘the outside’– provides both a much more dynamic and kaleidoscopic picture of city centres and their users and a more comprehensive understanding of border perceptions and experiences and related practices of shoppers. Such an analytical perspective and approach not only seems of interest for border‐related studies and policies at the urban level but also at the European level.
THE ‘TEMPLE HOUSE’ AT LATO RECONSIDERED
Authors: GAIGNEROT‐DRIESSEN FLORENCE
Published: January 2012

This paper reconsiders the ‘Temple House’, a building excavated in 1969–70 on the Temple terrace of the site of Lato in eastern Crete. While the building was dated to the Hellenistic (HL) period and identified as domestic space by the excavator, a restudy of the material from the excavation, combined with an examination of the excavation notebooks, and observations on site, reveal a more complex history of use, unusual architectural details, and a heterogeneous range of dates (from Late Minoan (LM) IIIC to HL) and functions, suggesting original funerary and post‐funerary cult contexts. It is possible to recognize the remains of a Subminoan (SM)/Protogeometric (PG) burial and evidence for an Early Iron Age (EIA) and HL tomb cult, allowing a reconsideration of the history of Lato and the process of city‐state formation in eastern Crete.
‘SPROUTING LIKE COCKLE AMONGST THE WHEAT’: THE ST BRICE'S DAY MASSACRE AND THE ISOTOPIC ANALYSIS OF HUMAN BONES FROM ST JOHN'S COLLEGE, OXFORD
Authors: POLLARD A.M. , DITCHFIELD P. , PIVA E. , WALLIS S. , FALYS C. , FORD S.
Published: January 2012

The recent discovery in St John's College of a mass burial of mostly young adult males with severe perimortem blade trauma has prompted the suggestion that these may be related to the St Brice's Day Massacre in Oxford on 13th November AD 1002. Three radiocarbon determinations suggest that a date in the tenth century is more likely. We have nevertheless undertaken an isotopic study of the bone collagen (δ13C and δ15N) and dental enamel (δ13C, δ18O and 87Sr/86Sr) in an attempt to answer the question ‘were these individuals of Danish descent?’ Our conclusion is somewhat ambiguous, but the bone collagen suggests a diet more like other Scandinavian populations than that of local groups, and the enamel isotopes point towards a Scandinavian rather than a lowland English origin. Comparison with Oxford Archaeology's recently excavated Weymouth Ridgeway mass burial suggests, however, that the execution of a captured raiding party is more likely than the slaughter of Oxford inhabitants of Danish descent.
The Activism of “Little Interactions”: A Historical Case Study
Authors: Kraig Beth
Published: January 2012

Following the 2008 presidential election, Barack Obama favorably described the role that incidental “little interactions” between people can play in building an inclusive society. Centering on a historical case study, this article argues that historians, educators, and activists should address the characteristics of the activism of little interactions, defined as small personal encounters that reduce prejudice and promote social justice, but generally occur without participants envisioning themselves as activists. The case study analyzes efforts to support an interracial family that moved into an all‐white Seattle neighborhood in 1948. With reinforcement from Lewis Gould Watts, neighborhood secretary of the Seattle Urban League, a cohort of white neighbors gradually used conversations and other small encounters, usually within their daily routines, to promote racial integration where they lived. Complementing more traditional and visible forms of activism, the activism of little interactions has contributed to the shaky steps taken by the United States toward full integration.
North Vietnam’s Informal Diplomacy with Bertrand Russell: Peace Activism and the International War Crimes Tribunal
Authors: Mehta Harish C.
Published: January 2012

This article offers a new interpretation of the combined peace activism of the British philosopher‐activist Bertrand Russell and the North Vietnamese. Three new perspectives are offered on their global activism, which had a significant—but grossly understated—impact on the U.S. government. First, the article writes ordinary Vietnamese people into the diplomacy of the Vietnam War, which has largely been written from the perspective of powerful world leaders. Second, it shows that the North Vietnamese performed an important, though unacknowledged, role in the creation of the Russell war crimes tribunal that put the United States on trial in 1967. Finally, the article presents evidence of the Russell tribunal’s considerable impact on the U.S. government. It shows that the Lyndon Johnson administration made plans to respond to the tribunal by holding its own “counter seminar.” The administration also launched a propaganda campaign to discredit Russell tribunal staff.
Not All Related Party Transactions (RPTs) Are the Same: Ex Ante Versus Ex Post RPTs
Authors: RYNGAERT MICHAEL , THOMAS SHAWN
Published: January 2012

Related party transactions (RPTs) are potential means for insiders to expropriate outside shareholders via self‐dealing. There are, however, possible benefits to these arrangements for outside shareholders. We find that the overall volume of disclosed RPTs is generally not significantly associated with shareholder wealth as measured by operating profitability or Tobin's Q. However, the results for total RPT volume obscure that ex ante RPTs, transactions that predate a counterparty becoming a related party, are innocuous at worst in terms of their association with operating profitability and significantly positively associated with Tobin's Q whereas ex post RPTs, transactions initiated after a counterparty becomes a related party, are significantly negatively associated with operating profitability. Ex post RPTs also result in significant share price declines when first disclosed and are associated with an increased likelihood that a firm will enter financial distress or deregister its securities. These results are consistent with ex post RPTs serving as means for insiders to expropriate outside shareholders.
Collection and storage of red blood cells with anticoagulant and additive solution with a physiologic pH
Authors: Burger Patrick , Korsten Herbert , Verhoeven Arthur J. , de Korte Dirk , van Bruggen Robin
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND: A donation of whole blood is most commonly collected in acidic citrate‐phosphate‐dextrose (CPD) variants with pH 5.2 to 6.2 as anticoagulants. Previously, we have shown that the initial pH after red blood cell (RBC) preparation can have an effect on RBCs during storage. First, we investigated the effect of the pH of the anticoagulant on RBCs. Second, we investigated the possibility of decreasing the pH of our new additive solution (AS) phosphate‐adenine‐glucose‐guanosine‐gluconate‐mannitol (PAGGGM) from pH 8.2 to 7.4 in combination with an anticoagulant with a physiologic pH.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Whole blood was collected in CPD (pH 5.6) or trisodiumcitrate (TNC; pH 7.4), and leukoreduced units were prepared using saline‐adenine‐glucose‐mannitol as AS. Second, whole blood was collected in TNC (pH 7.4), and leukoreduced units were prepared using PAGGGM (pH 7.4) or PAGGGM (pH 8.2) as AS. During cold storage, several in vitro characteristics were analyzed.

RESULTS: In agreement with our previous findings, the initial pH of whole blood has an effect during storage of RBCs. In the second part we show that there are no differences between PAGGGM (pH 7.4) and PAGGGM (pH 8.2) units when an anticoagulant with a physiologic pH was used.

CONCLUSION: These results indicate that the pH of the anticoagulant used during whole blood collection has an effect during storage of RBCs. When an anticoagulant with a physiologic pH is used during whole blood collection, the pH of PAGGGM can be decreased to physiologic levels, while maintaining adenosine triphosphate and 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate levels.
Thrombin receptor levels in platelet concentrates during storage and their impact on platelet functionality
Authors: Schlagenhauf Axel , Kozma Noemi , Leschnik Bettina , Wagner Thomas , Muntean Wolfgang
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND: Quality control of platelet (PLT) concentrates is challenging, due to PLT lesions, which are difficult to detect with routine methods. The search for reliable PLT lesion biomarkers is focused on the role of PLTs in primary hemostasis. PLT transfusions also have a significant impact on secondary hemostasis. In this phase, responsiveness of PLTs to small amounts of thrombin is crucial. PAR1 and PAR4 are protease‐activated receptors and are responsible for thrombin reactivity of human PLTs. This study should elucidate if levels of those two receptors are changing in PLT concentrates during storage and if those changes have an impact on PLT aggregation and support of thrombin generation.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: PLT concentrates from buffy coat preparations were stored in SSP+ solution for 9 days at 22 ± 2°C on a horizontal flatbed agitator, and samples were taken daily for analysis. PAR1 and PAR4 levels were evaluated using Western blot analysis. PLT aggregation was measured using Born aggregometry and specific PAR1 or PAR4 agonists. Thrombin generation was measured using calibrated automated thrombography.

RESULTS: Levels of both receptors (PAR1 and PAR4) started to decrease after 5 days of storage. PAR1‐mediated PLT aggregation remained constant, whereas PAR4‐mediated PLT aggregation decreased with storage time. Rate of thrombin generation was accelerated after 5 days of storage.

CONCLUSION: Decreasing levels of PARs in PLT concentrates after 5 days of storage influenced PAR4‐mediated, but not PAR1‐mediated, aggregation. Thrombin generation with senescent PLTs was increased, which may be attributed to other mechanisms promoting increased phosphatidylserine exposure.
Concentration and Market Structure in Local Real Estate Markets
Authors: Beck Jason , Scott Frank , Yelowitz Aaron
Published: January 2012

The competitiveness of the residential real estate brokerage industry has attracted much attention. Anecdotal evidence suggests some local markets are concentrated, yet no systematic market structure study has been conducted. We collected cross‐sectional data on real estate brokers in 90 diverse markets across the United States and collected longitudinal data for Louisville, Kentucky. In medium and large markets, no evidence exists that market concentration might create problems for competition. Small markets, on average, have higher Herfindahl‐Hirschman Indexes than medium and large markets. The longitudinal data reveal that many small brokers sell a house or two one year and none the next year.
Negative Participation of the Left Posterior Fascicle in the Reentry Circuit of Verapamil‐Sensitive Idiopathic Left Ventricular Tachycardia
Authors: MORISHIMA ITSURO , NOGAMI AKIHIKO , TSUBOI HIDEYUKI , SONE TAKAHITO
Published: January 2012

Left Posterior Fascicle and Idiopathic Left VT. The left posterior fascicle may be a bystander of the circuit of verapamil‐sensitive idiopathic left ventricular tachycardia. During ventricular tachycardia (VT), 3 sequences of potentials were seen at the left posterior septum: diastolic Purkinje potentials propagating from base to apex and presystolic left posterior fascicular potentials and systolic left ventricular (LV) myocardial potentials propagating in the reverse direction. Selective capture of the left posterior fascicle by the sinus beat did not affect the VT cycle length. Entrainment pacing revealed that the retrograde limb of the circuit was not the left posterior fascicle, but the LV myocardium. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 556‐559, May 2012)
A Qualitative Study of Women's Feelings About Future Childbirth: Dread and Delight
Authors: Rilby Linda , Jansson Solveig , Lindblom Britta , Mårtensson Lena B
Published: January 2012

Introduction: There is extensive knowledge about expectations of and thoughts about childbirth among women who have not given birth. When it comes to women who have given birth to at least 1 child, on the other hand, knowledge about their expectations for a future birth is limited. The purpose of this study is thus to describe the emotions of this group concerning future childbirth.

Methods: Participants were 908 women in Sweden who had given birth to at least 1 child. This study is based on responses to the following request in the questionnaire sent out to women 4 to 7 years after they had given birth vaginally: “Please describe your feelings when you think about giving birth in the future.”

Results: One‐third of the women responded that they were mostly frightened of future childbirth, while the remaining two‐thirds had mostly positive feelings. The qualitative analysis resulted in 3 categories and 8 subcategories and an overall theme: a mixture of dread and delight. Even with negative feelings/fears about future childbirth, many women want to give birth to more children.

Discussion: Despite experiences of severe pain or complications during a previous birth, many women nonetheless looked forward to future childbirth, primarily since they were motivated by having another child and encouraged by having been given good support by the midwife.
Scavenging Behavior ofLynx rufuson Human Remains During the Winter Months of Southeast Texas
Authors: Rippley Angela , Larison Nicole C. , Moss Kathryn E. , Kelly Jeffrey D. , Bytheway Joan A.
Published: January 2012

Abstract: Animal‐scavenging alterations on human remains can be mistaken as human criminal activity. A 32‐day study, documenting animal scavenging on a human cadaver, was conducted at the Southeast Texas Applied Forensic Science facility, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas. A Stealth Cam Rogue IR was positioned near the cadaver to capture scavenging activity. An atypical scavenger, the bobcat,Lynx rufus,was recorded feeding on the cadaver. Scavenging by bobcats on human remains is not a predominant behavior and has minimal documentation. Scavenging behaviors and destruction of body tissues were analyzed. Results show that the bobcat did not feed on areas of the body that it does for other large animal carcasses. Results also show the bobcat feeds similarly during peak and nonpeak hours. Understanding the destruction of human tissue and covering of the body with leaf debris may aid forensic anthropologists and pathologists in differentiating between nefarious human activity and animal scavenging.
Improving Automatic Face Recognition with User Interaction*
Authors: Arca Stefano , Campadelli Paola , Lanzarotti Raffaella , Lipori Giuseppe , Cervelli Federico , Mattei Aldo
Published: January 2012

Abstract:  Face recognition systems aim to recognize the identity of a person depicted in a photograph by comparing it against a gallery of prerecorded images. Current systems perform quite well in controlled scenarios, but they allow for none or little interaction in case of mistakes due to the low quality of images or to algorithmic limitations. Following the needs and suggestions of investigators, we present a guided user interface that allows to adjust from a fully automatic to a fully assisted modality of execution, according to the difficulty of the task and to amount of available information (gender, age, etc.): the user can generally rely on automatic execution and intervene only on a limited number of examples when a failure is automatically detected or when the quality of intermediate results is deemed unsatisfactory. The interface runs on top of a preexistent automatic face recognition algorithm in such a way to guarantee full control over the execution flow and to exploit the peculiarities of the underlying image processing techniques. The viability of the proposed solution is tested on a classic face identification task run on a standard publicly available database (the XM2VTS), assessing the improvement to user interaction over the automatic system performance.
Accumulation of Explosives in Hair—Part 3: Binding Site Study*
Authors: Oxley Jimmie C. , Smith James L. , Kirschenbaum Louis J. , Marimiganti Suvarna , Efremenko Irena , Zach Raya , Zeiri Yehuda
Published: January 2012

Abstract:  This study extends previous work on the sorption of explosives to the hair matrix. Specifically, we have studied the interaction of 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT) and triacetone triperoxide (TATP) as a function of chemical pretreatment with acetonitrile, neutral and alkaline hydrogen peroxide, methanolic KOH and potassium permanganate, and the morphological changes that accompany these treatments. While differences in vapor pressure can account for quantitative differences between TNT and TATP sorption, both are markedly affected by the chemical rinses. Examination of the hair surface shows different degrees of smoothening following rinsing, suggesting that the attachment to hair is largely a surface phenomenon involving the 18‐methyleicosanoic acid lipid layer. Density functional theory calculations were employed to explore possible nucleation sites of TATP microcrystals on the hair. We conclude that some of the sites on melanin granular surfaces may support nucleation of TATP microcrystals. Moreover, the calculations support the experimental finding that dark hair adsorbs explosives better than light hair.
Safe zone for bone harvesting from the interforaminal region of the mandible
Authors: Al‐Ani Omar , Nambiar Phrabhakaran , Ha Kien O. , Ngeow Wei C.
Published: January 2012

Aims

The mandibular incisive nerve can be subjected to iatrogenic injury during bone graft harvesting. Using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), this study aims to determine a safe zone for bone graft harvesting that avoids injuring this nerve.

Methods

Sixty CBCT examinations of patients were included in this study. The examinations were taken using the i‐CAT CBCT imaging system, applying a standardized exposure protocol. Image reconstruction from the raw data was performed using the SimPlant dental implant software. The distances of mandibular incisive canal (MIC) to the inferior border and the labial and lingual cortices of the mandible were measured at 3, 5, 7 and 9 mm mesial to the mental foramen.

Results

The MIC was visible in all (100%) CBCT images. The median distance and interquartile range from the lower border of the mandible was 9.86 (2.51) mm, curving downwards toward the inferior mandibular border at the symphysis menti. It was located closer to the buccal border of the mandible (3.15 [1.28] mm) than lingual cortex (4.78 [2.0] mm). The MIC curves toward the lingual side at the symphysis menti. There was gender difference in a number of these measurements. Current recommendation for chin bone graft harvesting can be applied to Asian subjects.

Conclusions

While acknowledging that there is human variability, this study provides an accurate anatomic location of the MIC, which in turn helps to determine a safe zone for chin bone graft harvesting. This information can become a useful guide in centers where CBCT is not available.
Use of proliferation rate, p53 staining and perforating elastic fibers in distinguishing keratoacanthoma from hypertrophic lichen planus: a pilot study
Authors: Bowen Anneli R. , Burt Lindsay , Boucher Kenneth , Tristani‐Firouzi Payam , Florell Scott R.
Published: January 2012

Background: Distinguishing keratoacanthoma (KA) and hypertrophic lichen planus (LP) histopathologically can be difficult, and the challenge is compounded by the tendency of KA to arise in association with hypertrophic LP.

Methods: In this pilot study, we compared 18 cases each of KA and hypertrophic LP for proliferation index (MIB‐1), p53 staining and the presence of perforating elastic fibers (elastic Verhoeff‐van Gieson) to determine the utility of these staining modalities in distinguishing KA from hypertrophic LP.

Results: Proliferation index in KA compared to hypertrophic LP is 88.2 (mean positive MIB‐1 cells/×100 field), SD = 56.6 and 47.3, SD = 68.4, respectively. p53 staining in KA compared to hypertrophic LP is 251 (mean positive cells/×100 field), SD = 117 and 158, SD = 119, respectively. Fifteen of eighteen (83%) keratoacanthomata demonstrate perforating elastic fibers compared to 1/18 (6%) for hypertrophic LP.

Conclusion: Proliferation index is not significantly different between KA and hypertrophic LP (p = 0.059). Expression of p53 is increased in KA over hypertrophic LP (p = 0.024). The presence of perforating elastic fibers in KA is significantly different from hypertrophic LP (p < 0.0001) and suggests that elastic Verhoeff‐van Gieson staining may be of practical benefit in distinguishing KA from hypertrophic LP in difficult cases.

Bowen AR, Burt L, Boucher K, Tristani‐Firouzi P, Florell SR. Use of proliferation rate, p53 staining and perforating elastic fibers in the distinction of keratoacanthoma and hypertrophic lichen planus: a pilot study.