bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transient receptor potential melastatin 3 is a phosphoinositide-dependent ion channel
Authors: Badheka Doreen , Borbiro Istvan , Rohacs Tibor
Published: June 2015

Phosphoinositides are emerging as general regulators of the functionally diverse transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channel family. Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2) has been reported to positively regulate many TRP channels, but in several cases phosphoinositide regulation is controversial. TRP melastatin 3 (TRPM3) is a heat-activated ion channel that is also stimulated by chemical agonists, such as pregnenolone sulfate. Here, we used a wide array of approaches to determine the effects of phosphoinositides on TRPM3. We found that channel activity in excised inside-out patches decreased over time (rundown), an attribute of PI(4,5)P2-dependent ion channels. Channel activity could be restored by application of either synthetic dioctanoyl (diC8) or natural arachidonyl stearyl (AASt) PI(4,5)P2. The PI(4,5)P2 precursor phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate (PI(4)P) was less effective at restoring channel activity. TRPM3 currents were also restored by MgATP, an effect which was inhibited by two different phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase inhibitors, or by pretreatment with a phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC) enzyme, indicating that MgATP acted by generating phosphoinositides. In intact cells, reduction of PI(4,5)P2 levels by chemically inducible phosphoinositide phosphatases or a voltage-sensitive 5′-phosphatase inhibited channel activity. Activation of PLC via muscarinic receptors also inhibited TRPM3 channel activity. Overall, our data indicate that TRPM3 is a phosphoinositide-dependent ion channel and that decreasing PI(4,5)P2 abundance limits its activity. As all other members of the TRPM family have also been shown to require PI(4,5)P2 for activity, our data establish PI(4,5)P2 as a general positive cofactor of this ion channel subfamily.
Very-long-chain fatty acid sphingomyelin in nuclear lipid microdomains of hepatocytes and hepatoma cells: can the exchange from C24:0 to C16:0 affect signal proteins and vitamin D receptor?
Authors: Lazzarini Andrea , Macchiarulo Antonio , Floridi Alessandro , Coletti Alice , Cataldi Samuela , Codini Michela , Lazzarini Remo , Bartoccini Elisa , Cascianelli Giacomo , Ambesi-Impiombato Francesco Saverio , Beccari Tommaso , Curcio Francesco , Albi Elisabetta
Published: June 2015

Lipid microdomains localized in the inner nuclear membrane are considered platforms for active chromatin anchoring. Stimuli such as surgery, vitamin D, or glucocorticoid drugs influence their gene expression, DNA duplication, and RNA synthesis. In this study, we used ultrafast liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry to identify sphingomyelin (SM) species coupled with immunoblot analysis to comprehensively map differences in nuclear lipid microdomains (NLMs) purified from hepatocytes and hepatoma cells. We showed that NLMs lost saturated very-long-chain fatty acid (FA; C24:0) SM in cancer cells and became enriched in long-chain FA (C16:0) SM. We also found that signaling proteins, such as STAT3, Raf1, and PKCζ, were increased and vitamin D receptor was reduced in cancer cells. Because recent researches showed a shift in sphingolipid composition from C24:0 to C16:0 in relation to cell life, we performed a comparative analysis of properties among C16:0 SM, C24:0 SM, and cholesterol. Our results led us to hypothesize that the enrichment of C16:0 SM could determine enhanced dynamic properties of NLMs in cancer cells with an increased shuttling of protein signaling molecules.
Case 2
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Venous Access section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 12
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Biopsy section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 26
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Ablation section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 27
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Embolization section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 35
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B. , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Embolization section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 39
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B. , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Embolization section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 40
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B. , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Embolization section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 42
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B. , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Embolization section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 46
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B. , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Genitourinary Intervention section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 48
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B. , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Genitourinary Intervention section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 61
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Gastrointestinal/Biliary Intervention section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 63
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Venous Intervention section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 64
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Venous Intervention section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 65
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Venous Intervention section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 71
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Venous Intervention section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 77
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Arterial Intervention section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 79
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Arterial Intervention section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 99
Authors: Covey Anne M. , Pua Bradley B , Aguado Allison , Madoff David C.
Published: June 2015

This is a case from the Drainage section of Interventional Radiology Cases. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Pretibial laceration
Authors: Bhanderi Neel , Cantle Fleur , Dheansa Balj
Published: June 2015

This chapter provides a discussion of the challenges facing the emergency physician when dealing with an elderly patient with a pretibial laceration. The assessment of such wounds and a classification system for these injuries is presented.

It examines the evidence base for three key clinical questions: the use of sterile water verses tap water for irrigation;the best method for closure of such wounds; and the potential benefits of early skin grafting. A potential management algorithm is presented and criteria for referral to a plastic surgeon discussed. The concept of skin-tear risk prevention is introduced.
Headache
Authors: McLeod Katie , Hobart Andrew
Published: June 2015

This chapter provides a discussion of the challenges facing the emergency physician dealing with patients presenting with a range of headaches and an exploration of the necessary history and examination and the stratification of higher imaging and further diagnostics such as lumbar puncture.

It examines the evidence base for three key clinical questions; what is the best analgesia for each headache type, the role of lumbar puncture after CT in suspected subarachnoid haemorrhage and an overview of the alternative potential diagnoses for a ‘sudden-onset severe’ headache.
Back pain
Authors: Neill Andrew , Lasoye T. J.
Published: June 2015

This chapter provides a discussion of the challenges facing the emergency physician dealing with a patient presenting with acute back pain. It describes an overview of the range of potential differential diagnoses and the history, examination and investigation profiles required. It focuses on identifying the red flags that require investigation and then the consideration of analgesia and imaging modalities.

It examines the evidence base for three key clinical questions: the use of plain imaging in atraumatic back pain; the consideration of whether there is an analgesia hierarchy; and finally whether MRI can be performed on an urgent outpatient basis.
The role of thrombosis
Authors: Faioni Elena M. , Lettino Maddalena , Cattaneo Marco
Published: June 2015

This chapter is concerned with the sequence of events leading to thrombosis and its consequences. Acute thrombotic occlusions of arterial vessels, which may precipitate myocardial infarction and/or stroke, are often due to fissure of an atherosclerotic plaque, with consequent activation of haemostasis and clot formation. Arterial thrombosis also plays a crucial role in accelerating progression of atherosclerotic lesions. Chronic activation of endothelium, platelets, and leucocytes leads to plaque formation, while acute events, related to a flare-up of inflammation, precipitate plaque fissure and thereby promote thrombus formation on the plaque, partial or total vessel occlusion, and flow disturbance. Thrombus-derived proteins stimulate plaque growth and progression, and the thrombus itself is incorporated into the plaque, further restricting the vessel lumen. Detailed understanding of these various events is required if the success of primary and secondary prevention is to be improved.
Risk stratification and risk assessment
Authors: Graham Ian , Cooney Therese , De Bacquer Dirk
Published: June 2015

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the biggest cause of death worldwide. The underlying atherosclerosis starts in childhood and is often advanced when it becomes clinically apparent many years later. CVD is manageable: in countries where it has reduced this is due to changes in lifestyle and risk factors and to therapy. Risk factor management reduces mortality and morbidity. In apparently healthy people CVD risk is most frequently the result of multiple interacting risk factors and a risk estimation system such as SCORE can assist in making logical management decisions. In younger people a low absolute risk may conceal a very high relative risk, and use of the relative risk chart or calculation of their ‘risk age’ may help in advising them of the need for intensive life style efforts. All risk estimation systems are relatively crude and require attention to qualifying statements.
Smoking
Authors: Pisinger Charlotta , Tonstad Serena
Published: June 2015

Smoking causes all forms of cardiovascular disease (CVD): there is no safe level of smoking. The health benefits of quitting smoking are immediate. In patients with coronary heart disease smoking cessation results in a dramatic decline in future cardiovascular events and reduces cardiovascular death; it is the most effective and cheapest treatment for preventing new or recurrent CVD. Tobacco dependence should be regarded as a chronic disease with a lifelong risk of relapse. Making treatment readily available and reducing barriers to treatment increase the likelihood that smokers will accept treatment. Medication and follow-up should be arranged for all smokers upon hospital discharge and in outpatient settings. High priority should be given to identification and documentation of the smoking status of all patients, and systematic provision of cessation support. Clinicians should also ask about exposure to second-hand smoke and should play an active role in advocating for stronger tobacco controls.
Nutrition
Authors: Dallongeville Jean , Lycett Deborah , Verschuren Monique
Published: June 2015

Different aspects of the human diet are causally related to atherosclerosis and its clinical consequences; therefore a balanced and healthy diet is the cornerstone of the prevention of cardiovascular disease. In this chapter an overview is given of the medical evidence supporting the importance of nutrition in prevention of cardiovascular disease; practical ways to cultivate cardioprotective dietary habits are summarized not only in terms of macro- and micronutrients but also in relation to foods, functional foods. and portfolio diets.
Overweight, obesity, and abdominal adiposity
Authors: Riccardi Gabriele , Masulli Maria
Published: June 2015

Obesity is a serious chronic disease of epidemic and global proportions. The incidence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is increased in obese people. Since overweight and obesity are associated with decreased lifespan, weight loss might be expected to improve long-term survival and to have beneficial effects on CVD risk. The therapeutic approaches for obesity are lifestyle changes, drugs, and bariatric surgery. Lifestyle modifications include modest weight loss and moderate-intensity physical activity. A low-fat (low saturated fat), low-sugar diet rich in fruit and vegetables, as well as legumes and whole grains, should be advised for its beneficial impact on weight and cardiovascular risk. Bariatric surgery represents an effective treatment in cases of severe obesity. Prevention of overweight and obesity at the population level will probably play a major role in combating the present obesity epidemic. Combining different intervention strategies is probably the best choice for maximizing the effects and minimizing the costs.
Coagulation and thrombosis
Authors: Huber Kurt , Morais Joao
Published: June 2015

Antithrombotic therapy consisting of antiplatelet agents and/or anticoagulants is an important way to avoid atherothrombotic complications, especially in secondary prevention. Primary prevention by antithrombotic measures usually refers to the prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation and an increased risk for stroke or peripheral thromboembolic events by the use of anticoagulants. In certain situations a combination of anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents is mandatory. This chapter provides the pathophysiological background of coagulation and thrombosis, reports on the epidemiology of antithrombotic treatment, and describes the efficacy and safety of preventive antithrombotic measures in different cardiovascular indications. A short paragraph summarizes the current discussion of skipping aspirin in order to reduce the rate and severity of bleeding events.
Ambulatory preventive care: outpatient clinics and primary care
Authors: Schmid Jean-Paul , Saner Hugo
Published: June 2015

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) services aim to restore the physical, psychosocial, and vocational status of cardiac patients. The role of these services has evolved due to the progress of interventional cardiology with its prompt and effective treatment of acute coronary syndromes. The focus has moved from the restoration of a patient’s health following an acute event towards a more pronounced long-term targeted secondary prevention intervention. As a consequence, CR services have also expanded their indication in order to include not only patients after myocardial infarction or surgery but also a variety of ’non-acuteʼ cardiovascular disease (CVD) states like stable coronary heart disease and peripheral obstructive artery disease as well as asymptomatic patients with no history of CVD but with a constellation of cardiovascular risk factors, especially metabolic syndrome or diabetes mellitus. This chapter provides a wide-ranging summary of the issues concerning outpatients and primary care.
Health promotion to improve cardiovascular health in the general population
Authors: Shelley Emer , Cupples Margaret E.
Published: June 2015

Prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD) requires consideration of the extent to which the social, physical, and fiscal environment facilitates heart-healthy lifestyles. The high-risk strategy for prevention offers major benefits for those with diagnosed CVD and those known to be at increased risk compared with their peers. From a population health perspective strategies to reduce risk in the majority not known to be at high risk have the potential for much greater benefits. Prevention programmes to improve CVD risk in communities should tailor objectives and programme design, including evaluation, to the resources available. Baseline information is required on knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours, as well as risk factors and morbidity, in order to raise awareness of needs, support programmes appropriately, and help reduce inequalities. Responsibility for changing behaviour rests with the individual, but preventive services can provide support, involving partners and family members.
A Survey of Eye Movements
Authors: Leigh R. John , Zee David S.
Published: June 2015

This chapter reviews the visual requirements, properties, and neural
substrate of eye movements and the advantages they offer to clinicians
and scientists. Eye movements are easily observed, measured, and
classified by the way they serve vision. The relationship between eye
rotations and extraocular motoneuron discharge is approximately
linear, making it possible to study how networks of neurons temporally
integrate raw sensory signals. Gaze-holding vestibular eye movements
act at short latency to guarantee clear vision during natural head
movements. Gaze-shifting saccades, pursuit, and vergence movements are
concerned with pointing each eye’s line of sight (fovea) at features
of interest in the environment. By combining ingenious experimental
design with functional imaging and electrophysiology, it has become
possible to understand much about the neural substrate underlying each
class of eye movements. Consequently, eye movements have become
powerful tools to study cognition and memory, adaptation and motor
learning, as well as aiding topological diagnosis.
The Saccadic System
Authors: Leigh R. John , Zee David S.
Published: June 2015

This chapter reviews the behavioral properties of rapid eye movements,
ranging from quick phases of nystagmus to cognitively controlled
saccades, and their neural substrate. Properties of various types of
saccades are described, including express saccades, memory-guided
saccades, antisaccades, and saccades during visual search and reading.
Current concepts of regions important for the generation of saccades
are reviewed, integrating results of functional imaging and
electrophysiology, including brainstem burst neurons and omnipause
neurons, the superior colliculus, frontal eye field, supplementary eye
field, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, cingulate cortex, posterior
parietal cortex, parietal eye field, thalamus, pulvinar, caudate,
substantia nigra pars reticulata, subthalamic nucleus, cerebellar
dorsal vermis, and fastigial nucleus. Saccade adaptation to novel
visual demands is discussed, and the interaction between saccades and
eyelid movements (blinks). Mathematical models of saccades are
discussed. Clinical and laboratory evaluation of saccades and the
pathophysiology of saccadic disorders, from slow saccades to
opsoclonus, are reviewed.
Smooth Visual Tracking and Fixation
Authors: Leigh R. John , Zee David S.
Published: June 2015

This chapter summarizes the properties and neural substrate of smooth
eye tracking movements, including visual fixation, smooth pursuit, the
ocular following response (OFR), and optokinetic nystagmus (OKN).
Fixational eye movements, including microsaccades and drifts, and the
role of the OFR in stabilizing gaze are discussed. The properties of
pursuit, OFR, and OKN are summarized, including anticipation,
prediction, and target selection. The ability of pursuit adaptation to
respond to new visual demands is reviewed. Pertinent cortical areas
(MT+) and their projections to brainstem and cerebellum are discussed,
as well as the accessory optic pathway, and nucleus of the optic
tract. Current models for smooth pursuit that incorporate efference
copy (corollary discharge), prediction, and Bayesian operators are
summarized. Clinical and laboratory evaluation of fixation and visual
tracking are reviewed, and the pathogenesis of disorders of these
movements discussed, including latent nystagmus accompanying failure
to develop binocular vision and infantile nystagmus syndrome.
The Neural Basis for Conjugate Eye Movements
Authors: Leigh R. John , Zee David S.
Published: June 2015

This chapter draws on a range of studies of macaque and humans to forge
an anatomical scheme for the control of gaze. At each stage, this
scheme is used to predict effects of focal lesions on the control of
gaze, with video examples. Contributions include the abducens nucleus,
medial longitudinal fasciculus (MLF), and paramedian pontine reticular
formation (PPRF) to horizontal gaze; the rostral interstitial nucleus
of the medial longitudinal fasciculus (RIMLF), interstitial nucleus of
Cajal, and posterior commissure to vertical gaze; cerebellar
flocculus, paraflocculus, dorsal vermis, fastigial nucleus, and
inferior olive to adaptive optimization of gaze. Cortical control of
gaze by structures including primary visual cortex (V1), middle
temporal visual area (MT, V5), medial superior temporal visual area
(MST), posterior parietal cortex, frontal eye fields, supplementary
eye fields, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, cingulate cortex,
descending pathways, thalamus, pulvinar, caudate, substantia nigra
pars reticulata, subthalamic nucleus, and superior colliculus are each
discussed.
Disorders of Ocular Motility Due to Disease of the Brainstem, Cerebellum, and Diencephalon
Authors: Leigh R. John , Zee David S.
Published: June 2015

This chapter reviews clinical features (with illustrative video cases)
and pathophysiology of medullary lesions, including Wallenberg’s
syndrome and oculopalatal tremor. Manifestations and pathophysiology
of three cerebellar syndromes are described (flocculus and
paraflocculus, nodulus and ventral uvula, dorsal vermis and fastigial
nucleus), applying these principles to interpret the effects of
developmental disorders (e.g., Chiari malformation), hereditary
ataxia, paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration, cerebellar stroke, and
cerebellar tumors. Characteristics of pontine lesions are discussed,
including lesions of the abducens nucleus, paramedian pontine
reticular formation (PPRF), internuclear ophthalmoplegia (INO),
one-and-a-half syndrome, slow horizontal saccades, and saccadic
oscillations. The effects of midbrain lesions are summarized,
including lesions affecting the rostral interstitial nucleus of the
medial longitudinal fasciculus (RIMLF), interstitial nucleus of Cajal,
posterior commissure, and more diffuse processes causing slow vertical
saccades or vertical gaze palsy (dorsal midbrain syndrome), including
Whipple’s disease. Effects of lesions affecting the superior
colliculus, thalamus, and pulvinar are also discussed.
Disorders of Ocular Motility with Disease Affecting the Basal Ganglia, Cerebral Cortex, and in Systemic Conditions
Authors: Leigh R. John , Zee David S.
Published: June 2015

This chapter reviews (with illustrative videos) disorders of gaze in
diseases involving the basal ganglia, including Parkinson’s disease,
progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), hyperkinetic movement syndromes
such as oculogyric crisis, and Huntington’s disease. Ocular motor
syndromes caused by lesions in the cerebral hemispheres are discussed,
including gaze deviations. Distinctive features of ocular motor
apraxia, both acquired and congenital, are highlighted. Eye movements
during epilepsy, and abnormal eye movements in patients with dementia,
including Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia, and
amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are reviewed. Eye movement disorders in
psychiatric illnesses, including schizophrenia, bipolar affective
disorder, and autism are summarized. Eye movements in stupor and coma
are discussed. The range of ocular motor disturbances in multiple
sclerosis (MS) is reviewed as well as the ocular motor manifestations
of metabolic and deficiency disorders, including Niemann-Pick disease,
Tay-Sachs disease, Gaucher’s disease, and Wernicke’s encephalopathy.
Disorders of eye movements induced by drugs or toxins are
tabulated.
Sub-atomic resolution X-ray crystallography and neutron crystallography: promise, challenges and potential
Authors: Blakeley Matthew P. , Hasnain Samar S. , Antonyuk Svetlana V.
Published: June 2015

The International Year of Crystallography saw the number of macromolecular structures deposited in the Protein Data Bank cross the 100000 mark, with more than 90000 of these provided by X-ray crystallography. The number of X-ray structures determined to sub-atomic resolution (i.e.≤1 Å) has passed 600 and this is likely to continue to grow rapidly with diffraction-limited synchrotron radiation sources such as MAX-IV (Sweden) and Sirius (Brazil) under construction. A dozen X-ray structures have been deposited to ultra-high resolution (i.e.≤0.7 Å), for which precise electron density can be exploited to obtain charge density and provide information on the bonding character of catalytic or electron transfer sites. Although the development of neutron macromolecular crystallography over the years has been far less pronounced, and its application much less widespread, the availability of new and improved instrumentation, combined with dedicated deuteration facilities, are beginning to transform the field. Of the 83 macromolecular structures deposited with neutron diffraction data, more than half (49/83, 59%) were released since 2010. Sub-mm3crystals are now regularly being used for data collection, structures have been determined to atomic resolution for a few small proteins, and much larger unit-cell systems (cell edges >100 Å) are being successfully studied. While some details relating to H-atom positions are tractable with X-ray crystallography at sub-atomic resolution, the mobility of certain H atoms precludes them from being located. In addition, highly polarized H atoms and protons (H+) remain invisible with X-rays. Moreover, the majority of X-ray structures are determined from cryo-cooled crystals at 100 K, and, although radiation damage can be strongly controlled, especially since the advent of shutterless fast detectors, and by using limited doses and crystal translation at micro-focus beams, radiation damage can still take place. Neutron crystallography therefore remains the only approach where diffraction data can be collected at room temperature without radiation damage issues and the only approach to locate mobile or highly polarized H atoms and protons. Here a review of the current status of sub-atomic X-ray and neutron macromolecular crystallography is given and future prospects for combined approaches are outlined. New results from two metalloproteins, copper nitrite reductase and cytochromec′, are also included, which illustrate the type of information that can be obtained from sub-atomic-resolution (∼0.8 Å) X-ray structures, while also highlighting the need for complementary neutron studies that can provide details of H atoms not provided by X-ray crystallography.
Crystal structure ofcatena-poly[[[triaquastrontium]-di-μ2-glycinato] dibromide]
Authors: Revathi Palanisamy , Balakrishnan Thangavelu , Ramamurthi Kandasamy , Thamotharan Subbiah
Published: June 2015

In the title coordination polymer, {[Sr(C2H5NO2)2(H2O)3]Br2}n, the Sr2+ion and one of the water molecules are located on twofold rotation axes. The alkaline earth ion is nine-coordinated by three water O atoms and six O atoms of the carboxylate groups of four glycine ligands, two in a chelating mode and two in a monodentate mode. The glycine molecule exists in a zwitterionic form and bridges the cations into chains parallel to [001]. The Br−counter-anions are located between the chains. Intermolecular hydrogen bonds are formed between the amino and carboxylate groups of neighbouring glycine ligands, generating a head-to-tail sequence. Adjacent head-to-tail sequences are further interconnected by intermolecular N—H...Br hydrogen-bonding interactions into sheets parallel to (100). O—H...Br and O—H...O hydrogen bonds involving the coordinating water molecules are also present, consolidating the three-dimensional hydrogen-bonding network.
US agricultural support programs and ethanol policies effects on farmland values and rental rates
Authors: Kropp Jaclyn , Peckham Janet G.
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– In recent years, prices for prime farmland have increased substantially, begging the question is the dramatic increase the result of a speculative bubble or consistent with market fundamentals with increases driven by increased global demand, low interest rates, and recent changes to US agricultural and energy policies. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impacts of recent agricultural support policies and ethanol policies on farmland values and rental rates.

Design/methodology/approach

– Farm-level Agricultural Resource Management Survey data collected by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) between 1998 and 2008 as well as county-level data collected by the USDA, US Census Bureau, and Bureau of Economic Analysis are used to determine the impacts of recent agricultural support policies and ethanol policies on farmland values and rental rates, while controlling for parcel characteristics and urban pressure. Specifically, weighted ordinary least squares and two-stage least squares are used to investigate the impact of various governmental agricultural support policies, corn ethanol facilities location, and local corn ethanol production capacity on farmland values and rental rates.

Findings

– The results indicate that government payments, urban pressure, and the proximity of the parcel to an ethanol facility have a positive impact on both farmland values and rental rates. More specifically, parcels located in the same county as at least one corn ethanol facility are more valuable and command higher rental rates. In addition, county-level ethanol production capacity is positively associated with farmland values and rental rates. An inverse relationship between distance of the parcels from an ethanol facility and farmland values is also found; a similar result is found for rental rates.

Research limitations/implications

– The findings suggest that agricultural support payments and ethanol policies are capitalized into farmland values. These findings have important implications for the formulation of future farm policy. A limitation of the analyses is that farmland values are estimated by landowners; future research could utilize farmland transaction data to overcome potential biases generated by using landowner estimates. In addition, while our study period covers 11 years, future research could expand the time period further to analyze the effect of more recent agricultural and ethanol policies.

Originality/value

– This paper extends prior research pertaining to factors influencing farmland values and rental rates by also examining the proximity of the parcel to an operating ethanol facility using a unique data set.
Enhancing food security with Islamic microfinance: insights from some recent experiments
Authors: Obaidullah Mohammed
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– Islamic microfinance institutions (IsMFIs) have used diverse models and tools, as they seek to provide financial and non-financial support to the farming communities. A majortity of IsMFIs focus on provision of micro-credit to farmers alone as a means to enhance food security, following an approach similar to that of the conventional microfinance institutions. Others adopt a “finance-plus” approach and provide support in a multitude of areas other than finance, such as, technology, production, marketing, business development, capacity building, and thus, ultimately steering the project to success. The purpose of this paper is to examine the models and tools of Islamic agricultural finance for the rural poor that display major variations and draw lessons from a policy perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study undertakes a comprehensive review of the principles, modes and models of Islamic agricultural finance targeted at small-holder farmers. It uses a case study method to review several winning initiatives by IsMFIs across the globe. It highlights the various risks and challenges confronting the projects and how the same are sought to be mitigated.

Findings

– Islamic agricultural finance for the rural poor involves a range of modes, mechanisms and institutional structures. Credit-based and sharing-based modes work well under specific conditions and there is no one-size-fits-all solution for financing the rural poor. Case studies of successful initiatives reveal that composite models involving the integration of philanthropy-based, not-for-profit as well as for-profit components may provide ideal solutions. Additional factors critical for success include provision of safety nets, involvement of community, non-financial support in a multitude of areas other than finance, such as, technology, procurement, production, marketing, business development and institutional capacity building.

Originality/value

– The paper addresses a fundamental issue in financing the poor farmers in Muslim societies – whether to opt for a credit-based approach that would ensure greater outreach or to go for a holistic intervention involving financing of the entire value chain. The findings are based on personal interaction of the author with professionals directly involved in the projects.
The cooperative capital constraint revisited
Authors: Li Ziran , Jacobs Keri L , Artz Georgeanne M
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– There is little reason a priori to expect that a cooperative firm’s capital needs are different from a non-cooperative firm’s needs if the two firms are otherwise similar in function and size and operate within similar market economies. However, the notion that cooperatives face capital constraints that investor-owned firms (IOFs) do not is a persistent theme in the literature. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors revisit this hypothesis with an empirical examination of capital constraints in a panel data set of US agricultural supply and grain cooperatives and IOFs.

Findings

– The findings are mixed. While the authors find little to suggest that cooperatives face financial constraints on borrowing in the short run, relative to IOFs, the authors do find some evidence that for long-term investments, a capital constraint may exist.

Originality/value

– These short and long run differences have implications for the survival and growth of agricultural cooperatives. While in the short run, access to debt financing allows these firms to operative profitably, ultimately long-term large investments in technology and fixed assets will be required to maintain competitiveness in this industry.
Real estate risk: heavy tail modelling using Excel
Authors: Brown Roger , Klingenberg Beate
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to present a practice briefing in the form of a user’s manual for Excel-based simulation of real estate risk. Based on a generic discounted cash flow model, the simulation incorporates the often ignored heavy tail behaviour of real estate investments, and consolidates Jensen’s inequality. The briefing attempts to explain a model that permits the user to decide whether to include extreme events in real estate risk modelling and how extreme these events may be. Practitioners can generate a variety of modelling outcomes and then choose risk comfort zones in which to contemplate a range of returns.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper provides an overview of the underlying mathematical concepts and challenges, as well as on the perspectives on their application from the current academic literature. It offers a step-by-step walk-through of the Excel model (the model being downloadable at:www.mathestate.com).

Findings

– Existing models for real estate risk modelling fall short with respect to realistic simulation of the probability of extreme events due to challenges in the implementation of stable laws. These former barriers to the implementation of stable laws have been overcome by providing a unique combination of Excel-resident functionalities with a stable pseudo random number generator.

Research limitations/implications

– Investment advisers no longer need expensive add-ins to estimate risk. The presented Excel model is more robust than common approaches as it considers distribution shapes that are not otherwise easily available. The only apparent limitation is that users need to be familiar with the most basic functionality of Excel.

Practical implications

– Practitioners are provided with an easy-to-use Excel model that does not require further software add-ins. The model simulates real estate investment returns, based on a more realistic inclusion of risk behaviour. It allows specifying how much extreme value behaviour characterizes the volatility in future projections modelled to guide investment decisions.

Social implications

– Risk is a cost to society. Many recent news events demonstrate the importance of including extreme values in modelling. The paper attempts to contribute to more realistic risk estimation in real estate investment.

Originality/value

– This briefing introduces a real estate risk simulation model that includes using stable laws, using Excel, a familiar and widely used platform. Such a model has not previously been reported in the academic or practitioners’ literature.
Property market modelling and forecasting: simple vs complex models
Authors: Jadevicius Arvydas , Huston Simon
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– The commercial property market is complex, but the literature suggests that simple models can forecast it. To confirm the claim, the purpose of this paper is to assess a set of models to forecast UK commercial property market.

Design/methodology/approach

– The employs five modelling techniques, including Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA), ARIMA with a vector of an explanatory variable(s) (ARIMAX), Simple Regression (SR), Multiple Regression, and Vector Autoregression (VAR) to model IPD UK All Property Rents Index. The Bank Rate, Construction Orders, Employment, Expenditure, FTSE AS Index, Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and Inflation are all explanatory variables selected for the research.

Findings

– The modelling results confirm that increased model complexity does not necessarily yield greater forecasting accuracy. The analysis shows that although the more complex VAR specification is amongst the best fitting models, its accuracy in producing out-of-sample forecasts is poorer than of some less complex specifications. The average Theil’sU-value for VAR model is around 0.65, which is higher than that of less complex SR with Expenditure (0.176) or ARIMAX (3,0,3) with GDP (0.31) as an explanatory variable models.

Practical implications

– The paper calls analysts to make forecasts more user-friendly, which are easy to use or understand, and for researchers to pay greater attention to the development and improvement of simpler forecasting techniques or simplification of more complex structures.

Originality/value

– The paper addresses the issue of complexity in modelling commercial property market. It advocates for simplicity in modelling and forecasting.
To use or not to use: which type of property should you choose?
Authors: Appel-Meulenbroek Rianne , Kemperman Astrid , Kleijn Marleen , Hendriks Els
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– Corporate real estate (CRE) is a costly and risky asset in need of more rigorous evaluation methods to support strategic decision making for portfolio and asset management. Especially the indirect added value on organizational revenues is hard to quantify, while it is gaining importance. The purpose of this paper is to describe a quantitative technique that predicts office use as input for CRE management (CREM) decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

– After a literature study to identify relevant aspects influencing office use in modern work environments, a Bayesian belief network (BN) is constructed from a large database of 80,907 observations of office use in three organizations in Belgium and the Netherlands. Next specific evidence from future scenarios of organizational change is entered to discuss the application of BN for CRE decision-making processes.

Findings

– This study showed that the use of activity-based offices might be influenced by a complex network of office design variables and user characteristics. The use of the predicting possibilities of a BN model can help CRE managers identify employee behaviour inside their offices. That information is valuable input for future workplace decisions and strategic CREM activities.

Practical implications

– This study provides CRE managers with a model to gain knowledge on office use to get a better grip on how to add value with activity-based office concepts. The results obtained through using such a model can help support decision making on their office layouts.

Originality/value

– Bayesian BNs have not been used in this area of research before. This paper provides both academics and practitioners with valuable insights in the possibilities of this methodology for the field.