bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular and morphological diversity of fungi and the associated functions in three European nearby lakes
Authors: Jobard Marlène , Rasconi Serena , Solinhac Laurent , Cauchie Henry‐Michel , Sime‐Ngando Télesphore
Published: May 2012

This study presents an original rDNA PCR and microscopic survey of pelagic freshwater fungal communities, and was designed to unveil the diversity of true Fungi (i.e. the kingdom Eumycota) in three contrasting lake ecosystems (Lakes Pavin, Aydat and Vassivière) located in the French Massif Central. Three clone libraries were constructed from samples collected in the euphotic layers of the lakes during spring 2007. Phylogenetic analysis of the combined data from the three lakes clustered our sequences into thee divisions: Chytridiomycota (50% of total sequences), Ascomycota (40%) and Basidiomycota (10% in Pavin and Aydat only). Several sequences were assigned to a novel Chytridiomycota clade first recovered in Lake Pavin in 2005. Most of the sequences retrieved in the investigated lakes were affiliated with known fungal species, most of which were apparently well adapted to thrive in the pelagic realm. Their main functions (i.e. parasitism and saprophytism), putatively inferred from the closest relatives of the retrieved molecular sequences, were confirmed by microscopic approaches and by enrichment experiments with pollen grains. The occurrence of three fungal forms (zoosporic, yeast and mycelial) was associated with different trophic modes, establishing fungi as strong potential competitors for various niches in pelagic ecosystems, primarily in relation to the processing of particulate organic matter and the production of propagule food sources for grazers. For the first time, this study provides insight into the diversity and the associated functions of all members of the Kingdom Eumycota investigated in the whole plankton fraction of aquatic ecosystems.
Excess nitrate loads to coastal waters reduces nitrate removal efficiency: mechanism and implications for coastal eutrophication
Authors: Lunau Mirko , Voss Maren , Erickson Matthew , Dziallas Claudia , Casciotti Karen , Ducklow Hugh
Published: May 2012

Terrestrial ecosystems are becoming increasingly nitrogen‐saturated due to anthropogenic activities, such as agricultural loading with artificial fertilizer. Thus, more and more reactive nitrogen is entering streams and rivers, primarily as nitrate, where it is eventually transported towards the coastal zone. The assimilation of nitrate by coastal phytoplankton and its conversion into organic matter is an important feature of the aquatic nitrogen cycle. Dissolved reactive nitrogen is converted into a particulate form, which eventually undergoes nitrogen removal via microbial denitrification. High and unbalanced nitrate loads to the coastal zone may alter planktonic nitrate assimilation efficiency, due to the narrow stochiometric requirements for nutrients typically shown by these organisms. This implies a cascade of changes for the cycling of other elements, such as carbon, with unknown consequences at the ecosystem level. Here, we report that the nitrate removal efficiency (NRE) of a natural phytoplankton community decreased under high, unbalanced nitrate loads, due to the enhanced recycling of organic nitrogen and subsequent production and microbial transformation of excess ammonium. NRE was inversely correlated with the amount of nitrate present, and mechanistically controlled by dissolved organic nitrogen (DON), and organic carbon (Corg) availability. These findings have important implications for the management of nutrient runoff to coastal zones.
DO PSYCHOLOGICAL SHOCKS AFFECT FINANCIAL RISK TAKING BEHAVIOR? A STUDY OF U.S. VETERANS
Authors: BOGAN VICKI L. , JUST DAVID R. , WANSINK BRIAN
Published: May 2012

Traditional economic theories assume that individuals are endowed with certain risk preferences that are unaltered by experiences. However, recent evidence indicates that macroeconomic shocks do have an effect on an individual's willingness to take financial risks. In the context of investment decisions, we examine empirically whether an individual's risk preferences are affected by other types of traumatic life experiences. Using a unique proprietary data set, we investigate whether personal traumatic experiences—such as the combat experiences of veterans—have long‐term effects on financial risk‐taking behavior. We find that having experienced combat decreases the probability of investing in risky assets. Key policy implications are noted. (JEL G11, D14)
Addressing Scale in Open Space Preservation: Learning from the Hague Region in the Netherlands
Authors: Padt Frans J.G. , Westerink Judith
Published: May 2012

Landscapes can be understood as the dynamic interplay between biophysical, social, policy and political processes. The ‘politics of scale’ approach is a promising approach to study these dynamics. Biophysical processes are often excluded from the politics of scale however. This study seeks to follow a more encompassing political‐ecological approach. After a theoretical account we present the results of a case study on open space preservation in The Hague Region in the Netherlands using data from the PLUREL project (peri‐urban land use relationships) carried out within the European Commission's Sixth Framework. Findings indicate that the existence of green open space can be understood by the interplay between biophysical, social and policy processes on the one hand and the politicisation thereof on the other. The analysis also suggests that green open space preservation may cause social conflict when climate change, urbanisation, counter‐urbanisation and demographic change put new claims on these spaces.
PRACTICES IN INTERNATIONAL VALUE CHAINS: THE CASE OF THE KENYAN FRUIT AND VEGETABLE CHAIN BEYOND THE EXCLUSION DEBATE
Authors: DANNENBERG PETER , NDURU GILBERT M.
Published: May 2012

The emerging role of private standards as new forms of regulation and co‐ordination in international trade and production is discussed in various fields including economic geography. A prominent example is the impact of the European standard GlobalGAP (former EurepGap) in Kenyan export horticulture. While today this standard is a quasi mandatory precondition for entering the EU market, several studies came to conclude that its high requirements led to market exclusion of most Kenyan farmers. This paper analyses how far farmers have in fact been excluded or have found alternative ways to enter the chain. Based on our own surveys, we identify and analyse different informal possibilities that are frequently used to produce for EU markets without a GlobalGAP certificate. Here we argue that informal production flows can take place even in highly standardised sophisticated consumer markets and should therefore be integrated into analyses on global value chains.
THE BRIDGING ROLE OF INTERMEDIARIES IN FOOD PRODUCTION NETWORKS: INDIAN ORGANIC PEPPER IN GERMANY
Authors: HASSLER MARKUS , FRANZ MARTIN
Published: May 2012

Processes of globalisation create flows of goods and information and lead to the phenomenon of transnational cultural processes. The culture of food consumption is a distinct example for this. The paper aims to unravel the way tribal farmers of Kerala are integrated into the global economy. This is linked to the question how intermediaries construct global production networks (GPN) and play a bridging role in the diffusion of information. This includes, for example, information on the circumstances of production as well as the distinctive life‐style consumption of consumers. Based on the case of organic pepper, grown by indigenous Mannan people, it will show how the embeddedness of the production of pepper is marketed in another cultural surrounding. The paper combines the GPN approach with elements from the global value chain and the commodity cultures literature.
Introduction: New Directions in Gender, Diversity and Organization Theorizing – Re‐imagining Feminist Post‐colonialism, Transnationalism and Geographies of Power
Authors: Metcalfe Beverly Dawn , Woodhams Carol
Published: May 2012

This special issue reviews contemporary gender and diversity insights into management and organization studies (MOS). The purpose of this issue is to critically evaluate key threads and concepts contributing to academic debates in diversity, gender and feminist theorizing. This paper highlights key threads in current scholarship, including relationality, power, intersectionality and social constructionist epistemologies and, in so doing, uncovers new insights and contributions. The paper provides a model which locates different themes and ‘moments’ in the development of gender and diversity scholarship and acts as a heuristic device which can guide gender and diversity scholarship and assist in conceptualizing the field. Building on the key threads weaving the special issue together, the paper advances new understandings of gender and diversity through integrating feminist post‐colonial scholarship, transnationalism and geographies of space and place literatures. The paper argues for scholars to ‘re‐imagine’ different possibilities for gender and diversity enquiry so as to encourage interdisciplinarity and align with social science research in contemporary critiques of globalization and global social capital in order to add richness and complexity to current theorizing. Specifically, the authors argue for MOS researchers to engage in dialogue with all global stakeholders, and they encourage cross‐fertilization of theories and values between writers from both the Global North and the Global South.
Risk and causes of death in children with a seizure disorder
Authors: ARTS WILLEM F M
Published: May 2012

This commentary is on the original article by Nesbitt et al. on pages 612‐617 of this issue
Heavy prenatal alcohol exposure and increased risk of stillbirth
Authors: O’Leary C , Jacoby P , D’Antoine H , Bartu A , Bower C
Published: May 2012

Please cite this paper as: O’Leary C, Jacoby P, D’Antoine H, Bartu A, Bower C. Heavy prenatal alcohol exposure and increased risk of stillbirth. BJOG 2012;119:945–952.

Objective  To investigate the association between heavy prenatal alcohol exposure and stillbirth.

Design  Data linkage cohort study.

Setting  Western Australia (WA).

Population  The exposed cohort included mothers with an alcohol‐related diagnosis (International Classification of Diseases, ninth/tenth revisions) recorded in health data sets and all their offspring born in WA (1983–2007). Mothers without an alcohol‐related diagnosis and their offspring comprised the comparison cohort.

Methods  Exposed and comparison mothers were identified through the WA Data Linkage System. Odds ratios for stillbirth at 20 + weeks of gestation were estimated by logistic regression, stratified by Aboriginal status.

Main outcome measures  The proportion of stillbirths at 20 + weeks of gestation is presented per 1000 births, as well as adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI), and population‐attributable fractions.

Results  Increased odds of stillbirth were observed for mothers with an alcohol‐related diagnosis at any stage of their life for both non‐Aboriginal (aOR 1.36; 95% CI 1.05–1.76) and Aboriginal (aOR 1.33; 95% CI 1.08–1.64) births. When an alcohol diagnosis was recorded during pregnancy, increased odds were observed for non‐Aboriginal births (aOR 2.24; 95% CI 1.09–4.60), with the highest odds of Aboriginal stillbirth occurring when an alcohol diagnosis was recorded within 1 year postpregnancy (aOR 2.88; 95% CI 1.75–4.73). The population‐attributable fractions indicate that 0.8% of non‐Aboriginal and 7.9% of Aboriginal stillbirths are the result of heavy alcohol consumption.

Conclusions  Prevention of heavy maternal alcohol use has the potential to reduce stillbirths. The lack of an association between exposure during pregnancy and Aboriginal stillbirth in this study needs further investigation.
A clinical prediction model to assess the risk of operative delivery
Authors: Schuit E , Kwee A , Westerhuis MEMH , Van Dessel HJHM , Graziosi GCM , Van Lith JMM , Nijhuis JG , Oei SG , Oosterbaan HP , Schuitemaker NWE , Wouters MGAJ , Visser GHA , Mol BWJ , Moons KGM , Groenwold RHH
Published: May 2012

Please cite this paper as: Schuit E, Kwee A, Westerhuis M, Van Dessel H, Graziosi G, Van Lith J, Nijhuis J, Oei S, Oosterbaan H, Schuitemaker N, Wouters M, Visser G, Mol B, Moons K, Groenwold R. A clinical prediction model to assess the risk of operative delivery. BJOG 2012;119:915–923.

Objective  To predict instrumental vaginal delivery or caesarean section for suspected fetal distress or failure to progress.

Design  Secondary analysis of a randomised trial.

Setting  Three academic and six non‐academic teaching hospitals in the Netherlands.

Population  5667 labouring women with a singleton term pregnancy in cephalic presentation.

Methods  We developed multinomial prediction models to assess the risk of operative delivery using both antepartum (model 1) and antepartum plus intrapartum characteristics (model 2). The models were validated by bootstrapping techniques and adjusted for overfitting. Predictive performance was assessed by calibration and discrimination (area under the receiver operating characteristic), and easy‐to‐use nomograms were developed.

Main outcome measures  Incidence of instrumental vaginal delivery or caesarean section for fetal distress or failure to progress with respect to a spontaneous vaginal delivery (reference).

Results  375 (6.6%) and 212 (3.6%) women had an instrumental vaginal delivery or caesarean section due to fetal distress, and 433 (7.6%) and 571 (10.1%) due to failure to progress, respectively. Predictors were age, parity, previous caesarean section, diabetes, gestational age, gender, estimated birthweight (model 1) and induction of labour, oxytocin augmentation, intrapartum fever, prolonged rupture of membranes, meconium stained amniotic fluid, epidural anaesthesia, and use of ST‐analysis (model 2). Both models showed excellent calibration and the receiver operating characteristics areas were 0.70–0.78 and 0.73–0.81, respectively.

Conclusion  In Dutch women with a singleton term pregnancy in cephalic presentation, antepartum and intrapartum characteristics can assist in the prediction of the need for an instrumental vaginal delivery or caesarean section for fetal distress or failure to progress.
Impact of stress coping capacity on recovery from abdominal hysterectomy in a fast‐track programme: a prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Kjølhede P , Borendal Wodlin N , Nilsson L , Fredrikson M , Wijma K
Published: May 2012

Please cite this paper as: Kjølhede P, Borendal Wodlin N, Nilsson L, Fredrikson M, Wijma K. Impact of stress coping capacity on recovery from abdominal hysterectomy in a fast‐track programme: a prospective longitudinal study. BJOG 2012;119:998–1007.

Objective  To evaluate the effect of stress coping capacity in combination with mode of anaesthesia on postoperative recovery in fast‐track abdominal hysterectomy.

Design  Prospective longitudinal study.

Setting  Five hospitals in the south‐east of Sweden.

Population  A cohort of 162 women undergoing fast‐track abdominal hysterectomy for benign conditions.

Methods  Self‐administered questionnaires, the Stress Coping Inventory (SCI) and the Swedish Postoperative Symptom Questionnaire (SPSQ), and clinical information were collected prospectively. Stress coping capacity was categorised as high or low according to the summed score of the SCI. Comparisons of effect variables were adjusted using a propensity score‐matching model.

Main outcome measures  Associations between stress coping capacity and hospital stay, sick leave, use of analgesic and self‐reported postoperative symptoms.

Results  Women with high stress coping capacity had a significantly shorter sick leave, experienced postoperative symptoms significantly less often, and with lower intensity, than women with low stress coping capacity. With the exception of symptom intensity, these findings were related to having had the operation under spinal anaesthesia as opposed to general anaesthesia. Hospital stay, use of analgesics and abdominal pain were not related to stress coping capacity.

Conclusions  In patients for whom spinal anaesthesia was applied, high stress coping seems to be a quality that helps patients manage the burden of surgery. It is desirable for the individual, as well as for the healthcare system, to enhance recovery by using intervention programmes designed to improve or manage stress coping, particularly for individuals with low stress coping capacity. This recommendation merits further investigation.
Multiobjective multiproduct parcel distribution timetabling: a real‐world application
Authors: Ben‐Ayed Omar , Hamzaoui Salem
Published: May 2012

Multiobjective multiproduct parcel distribution timetabling problem is concerned with generating effective timetables for parcel distribution companies that provide interdependent services (products) and have more than one objective. A parcel distribution timetabling problem is inherently multiobjective because of the multitude of criteria that can measure the performance of a timetable. This paper provides the mathematical formulation of the problem and applies the model to a real‐world case study. The application shows that without a common ground with the practitioners, it would be impossible to define the actual requirements and objectives of the company; problem definition is as important as model construction and solution method.
5‐HT6 receptor agonists and antagonists enhance learning and memory in a conditioned emotion response paradigm by modulation of cholinergic and glutamatergic mechanisms
Authors: Woods S , Clarke NN , Layfield R , Fone KCF
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 5‐HT6 receptors are abundant in the hippocampus, nucleus accumbens and striatum, supporting their role in learning and memory. Selective 5‐HT6 receptor antagonists produce pro‐cognitive effects in several learning and memory paradigms while 5‐HT6 receptor agonists have been found to enhance and impair memory.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The conditioned emotion response (CER) paradigm was validated in rats. Then we examined the effect of the 5‐HT6 receptor antagonist, EMD 386088 (10 mg·kg−1, i.p.), and agonists, E‐6801 (2.5 mg·kg−1, i.p.) and EMD 386088 (5 mg·kg−1, i.p.) on CER‐induced behaviour either alone or after induction of memory impairment by the muscarinic receptor antagonist, scopolamine (0.3 mg·kg−1, i.p) or the NMDA receptor antagonist, MK‐801 (0.1 mg·kg−1, i.p).

KEY RESULTS Pairing unavoidable foot shocks with a light and tone cue during CER training induced a robust freezing response, providing a quantitative index of contextual memory when the rat was returned to the shock chamber 24 h later. Pretreatment (−20 min pre‐training) with scopolamine or MK‐801 reduced contextual freezing 24 h after CER training, showing production of memory impairment. Immediate post‐training administration of 5‐HT6 receptor antagonist, SB‐270146, and agonists, EMD 386088 and E‐6801, had little effect on CER freezing when given alone, but all significantly reversed scopolamine‐ and MK‐801‐induced reduction in freezing.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Both the 5‐HT6 receptor agonists and antagonist reversed cholinergic‐ and glutamatergic‐induced deficits in associative learning. These findings support the therapeutic potential of 5‐HT6 receptor compounds in the treatment of cognitive dysfunction, such as seen in Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia.
Numerical simulation of diffusion‐controlled nucleation and growth of porphyroblasts
Authors: KETCHAM R. A. , CARLSON W. D.
Published: May 2012

This article presents the conceptual basis for a new numerical model of diffusion‐controlled nucleation and growth of porphyroblasts, describes its implementation, and illustrates the range of crystallization behaviours encompassed by it. The model differs from previous efforts principally in its ability to track explicitly the evolution in time and space of the chemical affinity for reaction in the intergranular medium, which provides a more accurate characterization of nucleation suppression in the vicinity of pre‐existing crystals and of growth suppression due to competition for nutrients among neighbouring crystals. Critical new features of these numerical simulations include: maintenance of local equilibrium for fluid in contact with reactants or products; persistence of reactants until they are eliminated by dissolution due to reaction progress and local diffusive flux; nucleation rates that vary as the local reaction affinity evolves; complex initial distributions of reactants if desired; and the flexibility to encompass any porphyroblast‐forming reaction for which changes in free energy as a function of time and temperature are specified. Model results reveal that radial growth rates remain proportional to the square‐root of time in diffusion systems buffered by persistent reactants; they document the interchangeable effects of diffusivity, porosity, and solubility on material fluxes and thus growth rates; and they illustrate the offsetting textural effects of rates of diffusion, nucleation, and heating. The initial distribution of reactants is found to exert a first‐order effect on crystal size distributions, confirming their limited utility for diagnosing crystallization mechanisms. These numerical simulations yield novel and rigorous confirmation of the textural effects of nucleation‐site saturation and variation in interconnected porosity, and reproduce with high fidelity much of the textural and chemical information gathered from natural specimens.
Intimate Bureaucracies: Roadkill, Policy, and Fieldwork on the Shoulder
Authors: Koelle Alexandra
Published: May 2012

Over the last twenty years, wildlife biologists and transportation planners have worked with environmental groups and state and tribal governments to mitigate the effects of human transportation arteries on animal habitats and movements. This paper draws connections between this growing field of road ecology and feminist science studies in order to accomplish two things. First, it aims to highlight the often unacknowledged roots that the interdisciplinary field of animal studies has in feminist theory. Second, it seeks to contribute to conversations in the humanities and social sciences on roadkill and on wildlife biology by steering us into a world of practice that foregrounds mundane details. I approach this topic through interdisciplinary methods, including interviews with tribal and state wildlife biologists and participation in fieldwork on a western painted turtle tagging project. Although engaging in science and formulating policy are often understandably regarded by nonspecialists as practices that distance observers from their topic, in the world of roadkill prevention, I argue that the opposite is the case. What I call “intimate bureaucracies” are formed: arrangements of papers, policies, and people that bring a world of counting, and accountability, into being.
SHORT‐TERM EFFECTS OF ACETATE AND MICROAEROBIC CONDITIONS ON PHOTOSYNTHESIS AND RESPIRATION IN CHLORELLA SOROKINIANA GXNN 01 (CHLOROPHYTA)1
Authors: Qiao Hongjin , Wang Guangce , Liu Kai , Gu Wenhui
Published: May 2012

The culture of microalgae using organic carbon sources decreases the cost of operation in closed systems. The effect of carbon sources on microalgae is thus an interesting problem in not only theoretical research but also practical production. The short‐term effects of acetate and microaerobic conditions on the growth, photosynthesis, and respiration of the green microalga Chlorella sorokiniana I. Shihira & R.W. Krauss GXNN 01 were described after acetate addition to autotrophic cultures. As the acetate concentration increased, cells needed a longer lag phase to grow, and 243.8 mM acetate completely inhibited growth. Acetate addition induced an immediate response in photosynthesis and respiration. The activity of PS II and PS I were impaired and declined with different rates, and then recovered compared with autotrophic cells. Carbonic anhydrase and Rubisco activities were also inhibited at the beginning, and respiration was increased. We propose that ATP consumption for acetate assimilation results in surplus NADPH, and then accumulated reducing power over‐reduces inter‐photosystem components and raises the transthylakoid proton gradient, which redistributes energy between PS I and PS II, and leads to a decrease in the PS II/PS I ratio and O2 evolution. An apparent cyclic electron flow was also observed, which may be mainly mediated by NAD(P)H dehydrogenase‐dependent pathway since NADPH was in excess. These observations pointed to an acclimation process after acetate addition, and suggested the interaction between photosynthesis and respiration involving ATP and reducing power.
Decoupling and Contextualizing Self‐Sacrifice and Intentions to Act for the Benefit of the Environment
Authors: Dupuis Darcy R. , Arnocky Steven
Published: May 2012

We comment on Liu and Sibley's examination of cross‐national differences in the relationship between perceptions of global warming and intentions to make personal sacrifices for the environment. First, although self‐sacrifice is not necessary for pro‐environmental action, the authors’ outcome measure conflates intentions to act and self‐sacrifice. In addition to being problematic at the individual level, this framing may result in cross‐national differences in meaning. Second, for developed nations, the authors seem to downplay the importance of external factors that can affect behavior. We expand by discussing barriers to action that cannot be surmounted by individuals’ intentions alone.
The Association Between Geriatric Syndromes and Survival
Authors: Kane Robert L. , Shamliyan Tatyana , Talley Kristine , Pacala James
Published: May 2012

Objectives

To ascertain the effect on survival of eight common geriatric syndromes (multiple comorbidities, cognitive impairment, frailty, disability, sarcopenia, malnutrition, homeostenosis, and chronic inflammation), identified by an expert panel of academic geriatricians.

Design

A systematic literature review sought studies from a variety of sources to compare survival and life expectancy of individuals with geriatric syndromes with those of the general population.

Setting

Studies used reflected the general population.

Participants

Community‐dwelling persons aged 65 and older.

Measurements

Eight geriatric syndromes (multiple definitions) and survival.

Results

Two thousand three hundred seventy‐four publications were retrieved, and 509 publications of 123 studies were included. Seven geriatric syndromes (multiple comorbidities, cognitive impairment, frailty, disability, malnutrition, impaired homeostasis, and chronic inflammation) were associated with poor survival. In each case, the prevalence of a syndrome was negatively associated with mortality. Malnutrition and impaired homeostasis exerted twice the influence of factors such as multiple comorbidities and frailty. From age 65 to 74, only those who are very ill or frail (e.g., impaired homeostasis, low body mass index, or advanced dementia) have a higher risk of mortality than average older adults. In the old‐old, particularly aged 90 and older, the added value of predicting survival beyond 1 year is minimal.

Conclusion

Geriatric syndrome information is helpful to understanding survival for younger old persons but provides little information about survival for the very old. Complex survival models add comparatively little benefit to more simply measured and calculated models.
Use of Pelvic Flexure Biopsy Scores to Predict Short‐Term Survival after Large Colon Volvulus
Authors: Levi Ohad , Affolter Verena K. , Benak Jaromir , Kass Philip H. , Le Jeune Sarah S.
Published: May 2012

Objective

To (1) determine if histologic scores of pelvic flexure biopsies can predict short‐term survival in horses with large colon volvulus (LCV) and (2) identify clinical variables predictive of short‐term survival.

Study Design

Case series.

Animals

Horses (n = 28) with LCV (≥360°).

Methods

Medical records (January 2000–February 2008) of 28 horses were reviewed and clinical data recorded. Pelvic flexure biopsies were reviewed by 2 board‐certified veterinary pathologists, unaware of clinical history and outcome, using 2 scoring systems. Exact logistic regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between histopathology scores (tissue viability), clinical data, and short‐term survival (hospital discharge).

Results

Twenty‐four horses (86%) survived to hospital discharge. Using a similar cutoff, neither scoring system was capable of predicting short‐term survival. One scoring system failed to correctly predict clinical outcome in 5/25 horses (20%) and the other failed in 6/28 horses (22.4%). Heart rate (at admission and 24 hours after surgery) and packed cell volume 24 hours after surgery were significantly associated with short‐term survival.

Conclusion

Histopathologic evaluation of pelvic flexure biopsies did not accurately predict short‐term survival in a significant proportion of horses with LCV in this study.
Expert Elicitation of the Value per Statistical Life in an Air Pollution Context
Authors: Roman Henry A. , Hammitt James K. , Walsh Tyra L. , Stieb David M.
Published: May 2012

The monetized value of avoided premature mortality typically dominates the calculated benefits of air pollution regulations; therefore, characterization of the uncertainty surrounding these estimates is key to good policymaking. Formal expert judgment elicitation methods are one means of characterizing this uncertainty. They have been applied to characterize uncertainty in the mortality concentration‐response function, but have yet to be used to characterize uncertainty in the economic values placed on avoided mortality. We report the findings of a pilot expert judgment study for Health Canada designed to elicit quantitative probabilistic judgments of uncertainties in Value‐per‐Statistical‐Life (VSL) estimates for use in an air pollution context. The two‐stage elicitation addressed uncertainties in both a base case VSL for a reduction in mortality risk from traumatic accidents and in benefits transfer‐related adjustments to the base case for an air quality application (e.g., adjustments for age, income, and health status). Results for each expert were integrated to develop example quantitative probabilistic uncertainty distributions for VSL that could be incorporated into air quality models.
Capturing and Integrating Knowledge for Managing Risks in Tunnel Works
Authors: Cárdenas Ibsen Chivatá , Al‐jibouri Saad S.H. , Halman Johannes I.M. , van Tol Frits A.
Published: May 2012

Risk‐related knowledge gained from past construction projects is regarded as potentially extremely useful in risk management. This article describes a proposed approach to capture and integrate risk‐related knowledge to support decision making in construction projects. To ameliorate the problem related to the scarcity of risks information often encountered in construction projects, Bayesian Belief Networks are used and expert judgment is elicited to augment available information. Particularly, the article provides an overview of judgment‐based biases that can appear in the elicitation of judgments for constructing Bayesian Networks and the provisos that can be made in this respect to minimize these types of bias. The proposed approach is successfully applied to develop six models for top risks in tunnel works. More than 30 tunneling experts in the Netherlands and Germany were involved in the investigation to provide information on identifying relevant scenarios than can lead to failure events associated with tunneling risks. The article has provided an illustration of the applicability of the developed approach for the case of “face instability in soft soils using slurry shields.”
Reversible, Complete Atrioventricular Block Caused by Primary Cardiac Lymphoma in a Nonimmunocompromised Patient
Authors: CRISEL RYAN K. , KNIGHT BRADLEY P. , KIM SUSAN S.
Published: May 2012

PCL in a Nonimmunocompromised Patient

Primary cardiac lymphoma (PCL) is a rare entity that commonly presents as a heart rhythm disorder. We describe a previously healthy, immunocompetent patient presenting with complete atrioventricular block (AVB). The patient was found to have a cardiac mass on magnetic resonance imaging and underwent percutaneous biopsy eventually diagnosing PCL. After pacemaker implantation, the patient's tumor responded rapidly to chemotherapy and the AVB completely resolved. In otherwise healthy patients presenting with AV block, cardiac tumor should be considered. Additionally, if PCL is diagnosed and the patient is clinically stable with AVB, it may be reasonable to delay pacemaker implantation until the clinical response to chemotherapy is evaluated. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 1386‐1389, December 2012)
Guthrie Health Off‐Label Stent (GHOST) Registry
Authors: HARJAI KISHORE J. , ORSHAW PAM
Published: May 2012

(J Interven Cardiol 2012;25:317–318)
Effects of Enthalpy‐Enhancing Gas on Ionic Conductivity of Atmospheric Plasma‐Sprayed 3.9YSZ Electrolyte for 20–45 μm Particles
Authors: Wu Hann‐Pyng , Fung Kuan‐Zong
Published: May 2012

Enthalpy‐enhancing gas is used to optimize the ionic conductivity of atmospheric plasma‐sprayed 3.9 mol% yttria‐stabilized zirconia (3.9YSZ) electrolyte. In the experiment, three hydrogen gas flow rates were used to control the plasma energy. The size of the 3.9YSZ feedstock powder was sieved to be in the range of 20–45 μm. When the hydrogen gas flow rate increased, the sprayed surfaces became rougher. Nevertheless, the lowest apparent porosity, the highest bulk density, and the hardest electrolyte were obtained at the hydrogen gas flow rate at 7 L/min. A 3.9YSZ electrolyte with an ionic conductivity of 1480 μ (Ω cm)‐1 was obtained at 800°C, when the hydrogen gas flow rate was at 12 L/min. It was controlled by the grain‐boundary conductivity, which was closely related to the lowest migration energy, the highest density of the columnar grains, and the closest bonding between lamellar layers. The increase in the hydrogen gas could diminish the amount of the migration energy and increase the grain‐boundary conductivity. On the other hand, a larger cubic lattice constant and a less amount of the monoclinic phase in the as‐sprayed electrolyte helped obtain greater intragrain conductivity.
2009 H1N1 Fatalities: The New Mexico Experience
Authors: Brooks Erin G. , Bryce Clare H. , Avery Catherine , Smelser Chad , Thompson Deborah , Nolte Kurt B.
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  Histopathologic features of New Mexico 2009 H1N1 fatalities have not been representative of those reported nationwide. We retrospectively reviewed medical records of all New Mexico 2009 pandemic influenza A (pH1N1) fatalities (n = 50). In cases in which autopsy was performed (n = 12), histologic sections and culture results were examined. In contrast to previously published studies, the majority of our fatalities did not have diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) (2/12; 16.7%). Common findings included pulmonary interstitial inflammation and edema, tracheobronchitis, and pneumonia. Two cases had significant extra‐pulmonary manifestations: myocarditis and cerebral edema with herniation. The majority had a rapid disease course: range from 1 to 12 days (median, 2 days), and Native Americans were disproportionately represented among fatalities. These findings suggest that New Mexico H1N1 fatalities generally did not survive long enough to develop the classic picture of DAD. Pathologists should be aware that H1N1 may cause extra‐pulmonary pathology and perform postmortem cultures and histologic sampling accordingly.
Expression of selected genes in preterm premature rupture of fetal membranes
Authors: KUĆ PAWEŁ , LAUDAŃSKI PIOTR , KOWALCZUK OKSANA , CHYCZEWSKI LECH , LAUDAŃSKI TADEUSZ
Published: May 2012

Objective. To analyse the expression of 15 genes encoding receptors and enzymes associated with the molecular mechanism of the tocolytic drugs atosiban (oxytocin receptor antagonist), nifedipine (calcium channel blocker) and celecoxib (selective cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 inhibitor) in preterm labor patients with premature rupture of fetal membranes in relation to symptoms of intrauterine infection and preterm labor risk factors. Design. Experimental molecular study. Setting. Tertiary obstetric care center. Sample. Myometrial samples were obtained during cesarean sections from 35 patients who delivered preterm with unverified symptoms of intrauterine infection, 35 patients who delivered preterm without symptoms of intrauterine infection and 90 women who delivered at term. Methods. The Micro Fluidic Profiling Card analytic system was used to evaluate mRNA expression of the genes of interest. Main outcome measures. The relative quantification values for mRNA expression. Results. The median oxytocin receptor and cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 mRNA expression in preterm patients with clinical symptoms of intrauterine infection was significantly higher than in preterm patients without symptoms. The median mRNA expression of β1, β3 and β4 subunits of the L‐type calcium channel and prostaglandin E2 receptor was significantly higher in preterm patients compared with term patients. Conclusions. The mRNA expression of hormones, enzymes and their receptors associated with tocolytic actions can differ in various clinical conditions. The expression of these genes is regulated at different levels and can be modified by inflammatory factors, which affect their functions.
Establishing a national program for fetoscopic guided laser occlusion for twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome in Sweden
Authors: EK SVERKER , KUBLICKAS MARIUS , BUI THE‐HUNG , DELLGREN ANNIKA , PAPADOGIANNAKIS NIKOS , TIBLAD ELEONOR , WÅGSTRÖM ELLE , WESTGREN MAGNUS
Published: May 2012

Objective. To describe the establishment of the fetoscopic guided laser occlusion (FLOC) technique for treatment of twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) and the initial results in a Swedish national center. Design. Retrospective, descriptive study. Setting. Tertiary level university hospital. Population. All referred and treated cases suffering significant TTTS. Methods. The present study includes all cases of FLOC for TTTS at the Center of Fetal Medicine at Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden from October 2001 until December 2009. Patients were referred from all over Sweden and a few from other Nordic countries. The patients were evaluated with ultrasound examination between gestational ages of 18 and 26 weeks. Data from patients were extracted from our electronic medical record system and, in addition, families were contacted and medical records requested from referring hospitals. Main outcome measures. Pregnancies with one or more surviving infants after FLOC treatment categorized according to stage of TTTS. Results. In 75% of pregnancies, one or more infant was born alive. At stage I, both infants survived in one pregnancy and one survived in the second. There was no significant difference between cases at stage II or III, i.e. 73 vs. 78% of pregnancies resulted in one or more surviving infant. At stage IV, 66% of pregnancies ended with one or more surviving infant. Conclusions. Treatment of TTTS is feasible in a rather small country like Sweden, with comparable results to other centers. There are strong arguments for centralization and further improvement of this kind of highly specialized treatment.
Short‐term complications of implant‐supported and combined tooth‐implant‐supported fixed dental prostheses
Authors: Rammelsberg Peter , Schwarz Stefanie , Schroeder Christin , Bermejo Justo L. , Gabbert Olaf
Published: May 2012

Objective

The objective of this clinical study was to evaluate survival and incidence of complications for metal‐ceramic and all‐ceramic implant‐supported fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) and tooth‐implant‐supported FDPs.

Material and methods

One‐hundred and sixty‐six FDPs placed in 132 patients from a prospective study were selected for this retrospective analysis. Included were 91 conventional implant‐supported FDPs with implant support on both extremities, 27 implant‐supported cantilever FDPs, and 48 tooth‐implant‐supported FDPs. All restorations were veneered with ceramic. Twenty‐six FDPs had a zirconia framework and 140 had a metal framework. Kaplan–Meier analysis was performed to estimate FDP success defined as complication‐free survival and the Cox regression model was used to isolate risk factors for the most frequent complications.

Results

Within a median follow‐up of 1 year and 2 months, three failures were caused by a failed implant (n = 2) and by extended chipping of the veneer (n = 1). In contrast with this low incidence of failure was a high incidence of complications including chipping (n = 29), loss of retention (n = 35), and abutment fractures (n = 2). Multivariate survival analysis revealed a significantly greater incidence of chipping for males and a tendency to increased incidence of chipping for zirconia‐based FDPs. The incidence of loss of retention tended to be less for tooth‐implant‐supported FDPs, for which semi‐permanent cement was the only significant risk factor, with a hazard ratio of almost 5.

Conclusions

As chipping of the ceramic veneer was the most frequent complication leading to substantial aftercare, improvements of ceramic veneers are desirable for zirconia‐based and metal‐based FDPs.
Anti‐infective therapy of peri‐implantitis with adjunctive local drug delivery or photodynamic therapy: six‐month outcomes of a prospective randomized clinical trial
Authors: Schär Dorothee , Ramseier Christoph A. , Eick Sigrun , Arweiler Nicole B. , Sculean Anton , Salvi Giovanni E.
Published: May 2012

Objective

To compare the adjunctive clinical effects in the non‐surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis with either local drug delivery (LDD) or photodynamic therapy (PDT).

Material and methods

Forty subjects with initial peri‐implantitis, i.e. pocket probing depths (PPD) 4–6 mm with concomitant bleeding on probing (BoP) and marginal bone loss ranging from 0.5 to 2 mm between delivery of the reconstruction and pre‐screening appointment were randomly assigned to two treatment groups. All implants underwent mechanical debridement with titanium curettes, followed by a glycine‐based powder airpolishing. Implants in the test group (n = 20) received adjunctive PDT, whereas minocycline microspheres were locally delivered into the peri‐implant pockets of control implants (n = 20). At sites with residual BoP, treatment was repeated after 3 and 6 months. The primary outcome variable was the change in the number of sites with BoP. Secondary outcome variables were changes in PPD, in clinical attachment level (CAL), and in mucosal recession (REC).

Results

After 3 months, implants of both groups yielded a statistically significant reduction (P < 0.0001) in the number of BoP‐positive sites compared with baseline (LDD: from 4.41 ± 1.47 to 2.20 ± 1.28, PDT: from 4.03 ± 1.66 to 2.26 ± 1.28). After 6 months, complete resolution of mucosal inflammation was obtained in 15% of the implants in the control group and in 30% of the implants in the test group (P = 0.16). After 3 months, changes in PPD, REC, and modified Plaque Index (mPlI) were statistically significantly different from baseline (P < 0.05). No statistically significant changes (P > 0.05) occurred between 3 and 6 months. CAL measurements did not yield statistically significant changes (P > 0.05) in both groups during the 6‐month observation time. Between‐group comparisons revealed no statistically significant differences (P > 0.05) at baseline, 3 and 6 months with the exception of the mPlI after 6 months.

Conclusions

In cases of initial peri‐implantitis, non‐surgical mechanical debridement with adjunctive use of PDT is equally effective in the reduction of mucosal inflammation as with the adjunctive use of minocycline microspheres up to 6 months. Adjunctive PDT may represent an alternative treatment modality in the non‐surgical management of initial peri‐implantitis. Complete resolution of inflammation, however, was not routinely achieved with either of the adjunctive therapies.
A quantification of occupational skin exposures and the use of protective gloves among hairdressers in Denmark
Authors: Lysdal Susan Hovmand , Johansen Jeanne Duus , Flyvholm Mari‐Ann , Søsted Heidi
Published: May 2012

Background. Occupational hand eczema is common in hairdressers, owing to excessive exposure to wet work and hairdressing chemicals.

Objectives. To quantify occupational skin exposure and the use of protective gloves among hairdressers in Denmark.

Methods. A register‐based study was conducted comprising all graduates from hairdressing vocational schools from 1985 to 2007 (n = 7840). The participants received a self‐administered postal questionnaire in May 2009, including questions on hairdressing tasks performed in the past week at work and the extent of glove use. A response rate of 67.9% (n = 5324) was obtained.

Results. Of the respondents, 55.7% still worked as hairdressers, and they formed the basis of this study. Daily wet work was excessive; 86.6% had wet hands for ≥2 hr, and 54% for ≥ 4 hr. Glove use was fairly frequent for full head hair colouring and bleaching procedures (93–97.7%), but less frequent for highlighting/lowlighting procedures (49.7–60.5%) and permanent waving (28.3%). Gloves were rarely worn during hair washing (10%), although this was more frequently the case after hair colouring procedures (48.9%).

Conclusions. Occupational skin exposure was excessive among hairdressers; the extent of wet work and chemical treatments was high, and glove use was inconsistent, especially for certain hair colouring procedures and wet work tasks.
Self‐testing for contact sensitization to hair dyes – scientific considerations and clinical concerns of an industry‐led screening programme
Authors: Thyssen Jacob P. , Søsted Heidi , Uter Wolfgang , Schnuch Axel , Giménez‐Arnau Ana M. , Vigan Martine , Rustemeyer Thomas , Granum Berit , McFadden John , White Jonathan M. , White Ian R. , Goossens Ann , Menné Torkil , Lidén Carola , Johansen Jeanne D.
Published: May 2012

The cosmetic industry producing hair dyes has, for many years, recommended that their consumers perform ‘a hair dye allergy self‐test' or similar prior to hair dyeing, to identify individuals who are likely to react upon subsequent hair dyeing. This review offers important information on the requirements for correct validation of screening tests, and concludes that, in its present form, the hair dye self‐test has severe limitations: (i) it is not a screening test but a diagnostic test; (ii) it has not been validated according to basic criteria defined by scientists; (iii) it has been evaluated in the wrong population group; (iv) skin reactions have been read by dermatologists and not by the targeted group (consumers and hairdressers); (v) hair dyes contain strong and extreme sensitizers that are left on the skin in high concentrations, potentially resulting in active sensitization; and (vi) recommendations and instructions on how to perform the hair dye self‐test vary greatly even among products from the same company, again suggesting that the basis for safe use of the test has not been determined. If the use of a hair dye self‐test to predict contact sensitization becomes widespread, there is severe risk that a tool has been marketed that may cause morbidity in European consumers.