bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphometric features of corneal epithelial basal cells, and their relationship with corneal nerve pathology and clinical factors in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Ishibashi Fukashi , Kawasaki Asami , Yamanaka Emi , Kosaka Aiko , Uetake Harumi
Published: May 2013

Aims/Introduction

We compared the morphometric features of corneal epithelial basal cells between patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and healthy controls, and analyzed the relationship of these features with corneal nerve fiber pathology and clinical factors in the patients.

Materials and Methods

Corneal epithelial basal cells and corneal nerve fibers were visualized by corneal confocal microscopy in 75 patients with type 2 diabetes and 42 age‐matched controls. Density, area and area variability of corneal epithelial basal cells, as well as the width of the intercellular space between neighboring cells, were evaluated for both groups.

Results

Patients showed decreased density (P < 0.02) and area (P < 0.0001), larger area variability (P < 0.0001) and a wider intercellular space (P < 0.0001) compared with controls. Density correlated inversely with area (P < 0.0001), width of intercellular space (P < 0.03) and beading frequency (P < 0.03), whereas it correlated directly with prothrombin time (P < 0.002) and activated partial thromboplastin time (P < 0.03). Area correlated inversely with duration of diabetes (P < 0.05) and coefficient of variation of area (P < 0.01), whereas it correlated directly with beading frequency (P < 0.05). Area variability correlated inversely with area (P < 0.01) and prothrombin time (P < 0.01), whereas it correlated directly with fibrinogen level (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Type 2 diabetes induces morphometric changes in corneal epithelial basal cells; this seems to be related to the morbid period of diabetes, beading frequency of corneal nerve fibers and blood coagulation state.
Selection and Characterization of a Novel Photoperiod‐Sensitive Male Sterile Line in Upland Cotton
Authors: Ma Jianhui , Wei Hengling , Liu Ji , Song Meizhen , Pang Chaoyou , Wang Long , Zhang Wenxiang , Fan Shuli , Yu Shuxun
Published: May 2013

Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) shows strong heterosis. However, heterosis is not widely utilized owing to the high cost of hybrid seed production. Creation of a photoperiod‐sensitive genetic male sterile line could substantially reduce the cost of hybrid seed production in upland cotton. Such a mutant with virescent marker was found by space mutation in near‐earth orbit and its traits had been stable after 4 years of selection in Anyang and Sanya, China. This mutant was fertile with an 11–12.5 h photoperiod when the temperature was higher than 21.5 °C and was sterile with a 13–14.5 h photoperiod. Genetic analysis indicated that both traits were controlled by a single recessive gene or two closely linked genes. Also, the cytological observations and transcriptome profiling analysis showed that the degradation of pollen grain cytoplasm should be the primary reason why the mutant line were male sterile under long‐day conditions.
Light sources and cameras for standard in vitro membrane potential and high‐speed ion imaging
Authors: DAVIES R. , GRAHAM J. , CANEPARI M.
Published: May 2013

Membrane potential and fast ion imaging are now standard optical techniques routinely used to record dynamic physiological signals in several preparations in vitro. Although detailed resolution of optical signals can be improved by confocal or two‐photon microscopy, high spatial and temporal resolution can be obtained using conventional microscopy and affordable light sources and cameras. Thus, standard wide‐field imaging methods are still the most common in research laboratories and can often produce measurements with a signal‐to‐noise ratio that is superior to other optical approaches. This paper seeks to review the most important instrumentation used in these experiments, with particular reference to recent technological advances. We analyse in detail the optical constraints dictating the type of signals that are obtained with voltage and ion imaging and we discuss how to use this information to choose the optimal apparatus. Then, we discuss the available light sources with specific attention to light emitting diodes and solid state lasers. We then address the current state‐of‐the‐art of available charge coupled device, electron multiplying charge coupled device and complementary metal oxide semiconductor cameras and we analyse the characteristics that need to be taken into account for the choice of optimal detector. Finally, we conclude by discussing prospective future developments that are likely to further improve the quality of the signals expanding the capability of the techniques and opening the gate to novel applications.
P2X3 receptor: a novel ‘CASKade’ of signaling?
Authors: Volonté Cinzia , Burnstock Geoffrey
Published: May 2013

Read the full article ‘Calcium/calmodulin‐dependent serine protein kinase (CASK) is a new intracellular modulator of P2X3 receptors’ on doi: 10.1111/jnc.12272
MicroRNA profiling in the mouse hypothalamus reveals oxytocin‐regulating microRNA
Authors: Choi Ji‐Woong , Kang Sung‐Min , Lee Youngkyun , Hong Su‐Hyung , Sanek Nicholas A. , Young W. Scott , Lee Heon‐Jin
Published: May 2013

Oxytocin (Oxt), produced in the hypothalamic paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei for transport to and release from the posterior pituitary, was originally discovered through its role in lactation and parturition. Oxt also plays important roles in the central nervous system by influencing various behaviors. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), endogenous regulators of many genes, are a class of small non‐coding RNAs that mediate post‐transcriptional gene silencing. We performed miRNA expression profiling of the mouse hypothalamus by deep sequencing. Among the sequenced and cross‐mapped small RNAs, expression of known miRNAs and unknown miRNAs candidates were analyzed. We investigated in detail one miRNA, miR‐24, and found that it is a novel regulator of Oxt and controls both transcript and peptide levels of Oxt. These results provide insights into potential neurohypophysial hormone regulation mediated by miRNAs.
Development of brainstem 5‐HT1A receptor‐binding sites in serotonin‐deficient mice
Authors: Massey Caitlin A. , Kim Gloria , Corcoran Andrea E. , Haynes Robin L. , Paterson David S. , Cummings Kevin J. , Dymecki Susan M. , Richerson George B. , Nattie Eugene E. , Kinney Hannah C. , Commons Kathryn G.
Published: May 2013

The sudden infant death syndrome is associated with a reduction in brainstem serotonin 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) and 5‐HT1A receptor binding, yet it is unknown if and how these findings are linked. In this study, we used quantitative tissue autoradiography to determine if post‐natal development of brainstem 5‐HT1A receptors is altered in two mouse models where the development of 5‐HT neurons is defective, the Lmx1bf/f/p, and the Pet‐1−/− mouse. 5‐HT1A receptor agonist‐binding sites were examined in both 5‐HT‐source nuclei (autoreceptors) and in sites that receive 5‐HT innervation (heteroreceptors). In control mice between post‐natal day (P) 3 and 10, 5‐HT1A receptor binding increased in several brainstem sites; by P25, there were region‐specific increases and decreases, refining the overall binding pattern. In the Lmx1bf/f/p and Pet‐1−/− mice, 5‐HT1A‐autoreceptor binding was significantly lower than in control mice at P3, and remained low at P10 and P25. In contrast, 5‐HT1A heteroreceptor levels were comparable between control and 5‐HT‐deficient mice. These data define the post‐natal development of 5‐HT1A‐receptor binding in the mouse brainstem. Furthermore, the data suggest that 5‐HT1A‐heteroreceptor deficits detected in sudden infant death syndrome are not a direct consequence of a 5‐HT neuron dysfunction nor reduced brain 5‐HT levels.

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To elucidate the developmental relationship between serotonin (5‐HT) levels and 5‐HT1A receptors in the brainstem, we examined 5‐HT1A binding in two 5‐HT‐deficient mouse models. In nuclei containing 5‐HT neurons, 5‐HT1A binding was decreased (autoreceptors), while binding was maintained in projection sites (heteroreceptors). Thus, brainstem 5‐HT1A‐heteroreceptor‐binding sites do not appear developmentally sensitive to reduced brain 5‐HT levels.
Actin filaments and microtubules in dendritic spines
Authors: Shirao Tomoaki , González‐Billault Christian
Published: May 2013

Dendritic spines are small protrusions emerging from their parent dendrites, and their morphological changes are involved in synaptic plasticity. These tiny structures are composed of thousands of different proteins belonging to several subfamilies such as membrane receptors, scaffold proteins, signal transduction proteins, and cytoskeletal proteins. Actin filaments in dendritic spines consist of double helix of actin protomers decorated with drebrin and ADF/cofilin, and the balance of the two is closely related to the actin dynamics, which may govern morphological and functional synaptic plasticity. During development, the accumulation of drebrin‐binding type actin filaments is one of the initial events occurring at the nascent excitatory postsynaptic site, and plays a pivotal role in spine formation as well as small GTPases. It has been recently reported that microtubules transiently appear in dendritic spines in correlation with synaptic activity. Interestingly, it is suggested that microtubule dynamics might couple with actin dynamics. In this review, we will summarize the contribution of both actin filaments and microtubules to the formation and regulation of dendritic spines, and further discuss the role of cytoskeletal deregulation in neurological disorders.
BNIP3 mediates pre‐myelinating oligodendrocyte cell death in hypoxia and ischemia
Authors: Li Chengren , Guan Teng , Chen Xueping , Li Wenyan , Cai Qiyan , Niu Jianqin , Xiao Lan , Kong Jiming
Published: May 2013

Developing oligodendrocytes, collectively termed ‘pre‐myelinating oligodendrocytes’ (preOLs), are vulnerable to hypoxic or ischemic insults. The underlying mechanism of this vulnerability remains unclear. Previously, we showed that Bcl‐2⁄E1B‐19K‐interacting protein 3 (BNIP3), a proapoptotic member of the Bcl‐2 family proteins, induced neuronal death in a caspase‐independent manner in stroke. In this study, we investigated the role of BNIP3 in preOL cell death induced by hypoxia or ischemia. In primary oligodendrocyte progenitor cell (OPC) cultures exposed to oxygen–glucose deprivation, we found that BNIP3 was upregulated and levels of BNIP3 expression correlated with the death of OPCs. Up‐regulation of BNIP3 was observed in preOLs in the white matter in a neonatal rat model of stroke. Knockout of BNIP3 significantly reduced death of preOLs in the middle cerebral artery occlusion model in mice. Our results demonstrate a role of BNIP3 in mediating preOLs cell death induced by hypoxia or ischemia, and suggest that BNIP3 may be a new target for protecting oligodendrocytes from death after stroke.

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Pre‐myelinating oligodendrocytes (preOLs) are known to be highly vulnerable to ischemic insults. It remains unclear, however, how preOLs die. This study shows that BNIP3, a proapoptotic member of the Bcl‐2 family proteins, is a mediator of hypoxia/ischemia‐induced preOLs death. The BNIP3 cell death pathway may therefore be a new target for protecting oligodendrocytes from death after stroke.
Uncertainty, Time‐Varying Fear, and Asset Prices
Authors: DRECHSLER ITAMAR
Published: May 2013

I construct an equilibrium model that captures salient properties of index option prices, equity returns, variance, and the risk‐free rate. A representative investor makes consumption and portfolio choice decisions that are robust to his uncertainty about the true economic model. He pays a large premium for index options because they hedge important model misspecification concerns, particularly concerning jump shocks to cash flow growth and volatility. A calibration shows that empirically consistent fundamentals and reasonable model uncertainty explain option prices and the variance premium. Time variation in uncertainty generates variance premium fluctuations, helping explain their power to predict stock returns.
Complementary and alternative medicine for autism spectrum disorders: Rationale, safety and efficacy
Authors: Whitehouse Andrew JO
Published: May 2013

Complementary and alternative medicine is widely used for children with autism spectrum disorder, despite uncertainty regarding efficacy. This review describes complementary and alternative practices commonly used among this population, the rationale for the use of each practice, as well as the side‐effect profile and evidence for efficacy. The existing evidence base indicates that melatonin can be recommended as a treatment for sleeping disturbances associated with autism spectrum disorder, while secretin can be rejected as an efficacious treatment for broader autistic symptoms. There is insufficient evidence to draw conclusions on the efficacy of modified diets, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, immune therapy, and vitamin and fatty acid supplementation. There is a clear need for methodologically rigorous studies to provide evidence‐based guidance to families and clinicians regarding complementary and alternative practices for individuals with autism spectrum disorders.
AFLPandSCARmarkers associated with the sex inGracilaria lemaneiformis(Rhodophyta)
Authors: Huan Li , He Linwen , Zhang Baoyu , Niu Jianfeng , Lin Apeng , Wang Guangce
Published: May 2013

Gracilaria lemaneiformis(Bory deSaint‐Vincent)Greville, an important marine alga, has great economic and nutritional value. However, during the nonreproductive period, it is difficult to distinguish the sporophyte, male gametophyte, and female gametophyte from each other by appearance. Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) is a multilocus marker technique, which was used in this study to identify markers associated withG. lemaneiformissex type. By applying 80 primer combinations in the screening process, three fragments were found that were specific to male or female forms of the alga. A 173 bp band and an 89 bp band were found in the sporophyte and the male gametophyte by using primer E‐AGG/M‐CGT. E‐ACC/M‐CGGwas used to amplify a 118 bp specific fragment in the sporophyte and the female gametophyte. Sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) primers were designed and showed the expected bands at the corresponding stages. This suggested that theSCARmarkers that had been developed were successful. The joint use of the three primer pairs allowed us to characterize sex and theG. lemaneiformisdevelopmental phase in the nondescript stages. Rapid gender testing is expected to improve cross‐breeding experiments and other genetic research in this economically important seaweed.
Production of volatiles by the red seaweed Gelidium arbuscula (Rhodophyta): emission of ethylene and dimethyl sulfide
Authors: Garcia‐Jimenez Pilar , Brito‐Romano Olegario , Robaina Rafael R.
Published: May 2013

The effects of different light conditions and exogenous ethylene on the emission of volatile compounds from the alga Gelidium arbuscula Bory de Saint‐Vincent were studied. Special emphasis was placed on the possibility that the emission of ethylene and dimethyl sulfide (DMS) are related through the action of dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) lyase. The conversion of DMSP to DMS and acrylate, which is catalyzed by DMSP lyase, can indirectly support the synthesis of ethylene through the transformation of acrylate to ethylene. After mimicking the desiccation of G. arbuscula thalli experienced during low tides, the volatile compounds emitted were trapped in the headspace of 2 mL glass vials for 1 h. Two methods based on gas chromatography/mass spectrometry revealed that the range of organic volatile compounds released was affected by abiotic factors, such as the availability and spectral quality of light, salinity, and exogenous ethylene. Amines and methyl alkyl compounds were produced after exposure to white light and darkness but not after exposure to exogenous ethylene or red light. Volatiles potentially associated with the oxidation of fatty acids, such as alkenes and low‐molecular‐weight oxygenated compounds, accumu‐lated after exposure to exogenous ethylene and red light. Ethylene was produced in all treatments, especially after exposure to exogenous ethylene. Levels of DMS, the most abundant sulfur‐compound that was emitted in all of the conditions tested, did not increase after incubation with ethylene. Thus, although DMSP lyase is active in G. arbuscula, it is unlikely to contribute to ethylene synthesis. The generation of ethylene and DMS do not appear to be coordinated in G. arbuscula.
Cutaneous Corpuscular Receptors of the Human Glans Clitoris: Descriptive Characteristics and Comparison with the Glans Penis
Authors: Shih Cheryl , Cold Christopher J. , Yang Claire C.
Published: May 2013

Introduction

The female genital sensory pathways that initiate sexual arousal reflexes begin with cutaneous corpuscular receptors in the glabrous genital skin, including those of the glans clitoris.

Aim

The aim of this study is to characterize the corpuscular receptors of the glans clitoris. In addition, we compared basic features with the receptors of the glans penis.

Main Outcome Measure

Number of stained receptors.

Methods

Five cadaveric vulvectomy specimens and four cadaveric penile specimens were used. They were serially sectioned and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Selected blocks were stained with Masson's trichrome, and immunohistochemical staining was done with neuronal markers S-100 and neurofilament.

Results

Using the three stains, we identified an abundance of corpuscular receptors within the glans clitoris, as compared with the surrounding prepuce. These receptors were of varied arrangements, situated in the subepithelial tissues of the glans clitoris. They were indistinguishable from the receptors of the glans penis. The number of receptors per 100× high-powered field ranged from 1 to 14, whereas the receptor density in the glans penis ranged from 1 to 3. A second type of receptor, the Pacinian corpuscle, was identified within the suspensory ligament along the trunks of the dorsal nerve but not within the glans itself.

Conclusions

The glans clitoris is densely innervated with cutaneous corpuscular receptors, and these receptors are morphologically similar to the corpuscular receptors of the glans penis. The glans clitoris has greater variability in receptor density compared with the glans penis.
Association between the hepatitis B and C viruses and metabolic diseases in patients stratified by age
Authors: Li Wen‐Cheng , Lee Yi‐Yen , Chen I‐Chuan , Sun Cheng , Chiu Feng‐Hsiang , Chuang Chung‐Hsun
Published: May 2013

Background

Hepatitis B/C viruses cause liver disease and metabolic disturbances.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between hepatitis B/C infection and metabolic syndrome (MS).

Methods

In total, 26 305 subjects were included in this multicentre, cross‐sectional study. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures, body mass index and waist circumference were measured. Total cholesterol, high‐ and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride, fasting blood glucose and uric acid were determined, and hepatitis B serum antigen (HBsAg) and anti‐HCV antibodies were assayed using commercial kits.

Results

MS was diagnosed in 2712 (23.0%) females, including 131 and 166 positive for HBsAg and anti‐HCV respectively. In the men, 4594 (31.6%) were diagnosed with MS, including 326 positive for HBsAg and 131 positive for anti‐HCV. No significant difference in the prevalence of MS was identified in any group, except men and women >45 years who were anti‐HCV positive. Various metabolic alterations in both men and women >45 years were noted, including waist circumference, body mass index, fasting blood glucose and systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Notably, high‐ and low‐density lipoproteins were significantly lower in positive subjects compared to those weakly positive and/or negative for anti‐HCV.

Conclusions

There were obvious metabolic derangements in patients coinflicted with MS and hepatitis C infections, particularly those >45 years of age. There is a pressing need to identify strategies to improve/resolve metabolic derangements to maximize sustained virological response rates in patients infected with HCV (and potentially HBV).
Degree of impactor fragmentation under collision with a regolith surface—Laboratory impact experiments of rock projectiles
Authors: Nagaoka Hiroki , Takasawa Susumu , Nakamura Akiko M. , Sangen Kazuyoshi
Published: May 2013

Some meteorites consist of a mix of components of various parent bodies that were presumably brought together by past collisions. Impact experiments have been performed to investigate the degree of target fragmentation during such collisions. However, much less attention has been paid to the fate of the impactors. Here, we report the results of our study of the empirical relationship between the degree of projectile fragmentation and the impact conditions. Millimeter‐sized pyrophyllite and basalt projectiles were impacted onto regolith‐like sand targets and an aluminum target at velocities of up to 960 m s−1. Experiments using millimeter‐sized pyrophyllite blocks as targets were also conducted to fill the gap between this study and the previous studies of centimeter‐sized rock targets. The catastrophic disruption threshold for a projectile is defined as the energy density at which the mass of the largest fragment is the half of the original mass. The thresholds with the sand target were 4.5 ± 1.1 × 104 and 9.0 ± 1.9 × 104 J kg−1, for pyrophyllite and basalt projectiles, respectively. These values are two orders of magnitude larger than the threshold for impacts between pyrophyllite projectiles onto aluminum targets, but are qualitatively consistent with the fact that the compressive and tensile strengths of basalt are larger than those of pyrophyllite. The threshold for pyrophyllite projectiles and the aluminum target agrees with the threshold for aluminum projectiles and pyrophyllite targets within the margin of error. Consistent with a previous result, the threshold depended on the size of the rocks with a power of approximately −0.4 (Housen and Holsapple 1999). Destruction of rock projectiles occurred when the peak pressure was about ten times the tensile strength of the rocks.
When White Feels Right: The Effects of In‐Group Affect and Race of Partner on Negotiation Performance
Authors: Gilin Oore Debra , Gagnon Annette , Bourgeois David
Published: May 2013

This research investigated the unique role of racial in‐group affect, or liking one's racial group, to foster or inhibit integration in negotiations with different race partners. We hypothesized that when the racial backgrounds of the negotiators are salient, threat inherent in negotiations activates in‐group affect for some White negotiators (those more “glad to be White”), triggering divergent negotiation approaches with White versus Black counterparts. In support of our hypotheses, we found that when negotiating with a Black confederate, stronger in‐group affect of White participants was a liability, relating to poorer joint outcomes and a “chilling and competing” negotiation approach. When negotiating with a White confederate, stronger in‐group affect of White participants instead boosted the dyad's joint outcomes by fostering greater trust. The meaning and practical implications of strong in‐group affect in negotiations with diverse counterparts are discussed.
Effect of hyoscine butylbromide (Buscopan®) on cholinergic pathways in the human intestine
Authors: Krueger D. , Michel K. , Allam S. , Weiser T. , Demir I. E. , Ceyhan G. O. , Zeller F. , Schemann M.
Published: May 2013

Background

Hyoscine butylbromide (HBB, Buscopan®) is clinically used to treat intestinal cramps and visceral pain. Various studies, mainly on animal tissues, suggested that its antimuscarinic action is responsible for its spasmolytic effect. However, functional in vitro studies with human tissue have not been performed so far.

Methods

We wanted to provide a comprehensive study on the mode of action of HBB in human intestinal samples and investigated HBB (1 nmol L−1–10 μmol L−1) effects on muscle activity with isometric force transducers and calcium imaging, on epithelial secretion with Ussing chamber technique and on enteric neurons using fast neuroimaging.

Key Results

Hyoscine butylbromide concentration dependently reduced muscle contractions, calcium mobilization, and epithelial secretion induced by the muscarinic agonist bethanechol with IC50 values of 429, 121, and 224 nmol L−1, respectively. Forskolin‐induced secretion was not altered by HBB. Cholinergic muscarinic muscle and epithelial responses evoked by electrical nerve stimulation were inhibited by 1–10 μmol L−1 HBB. Moreover, HBB significantly reduced the bethanechol‐induced action potential discharge in enteric neurons. Interestingly, we observed that high concentrations of HBB (10 μmol L−1) moderately decreased nicotinic receptor‐mediated secretion, motility, and nerve activity.

Conclusions & Inferences

The results demonstrated the strong antimuscarinic action of HBB whereas the nicotinic antagonism at higher concentrations plays at most a moderate modulatory role. The muscle relaxing effect of HBB and its inhibition of muscarinic nerve activation likely explain its clinical use as an antispasmodic drug. Our results further highlight a so far unknown antisecretory action of HBB which warrants further clinical studies on its use in secretory disorders.
Communist Conventions for Deductive Reasoning
Authors: Dogramaci Sinan
Published: May 2013

In section 1, I develop epistemic communism, my view of the function of epistemically evaluative terms such as ‘rational’. The function is to support the coordination of our belief‐forming rules, which in turn supports the reliable acquisition of beliefs through testimony. This view is motivated by the existence of valid inferences that we hesitate to call rational. I defend the view against the worry that it fails to account for a function of evaluations within first‐personal deliberation. In the rest of the paper, I then argue, on the basis of epistemic communism, for a view about rationality itself. I set up the argument in section 2 by saying what a theory of rational deduction is supposed to do. I claim that such a theory would provide a necessary, sufficient, and explanatorily unifying condition for being a rational rule for inferring deductive consequences. I argue in section 3 that, given epistemic communism and the conventionality that it entails, there is no such theory. Nothing explains why certain rules for deductive reasoning are rational.
Evolutionary dynamics and information hierarchies in biological systems
Authors: Walker Sara Imari , Callahan Benjamin J. , Arya Gaurav , Barry J. David , Bhattacharya Tanmoy , Grigoryev Sergei , Pellegrini Matteo , Rippe Karsten , Rosenberg Susan M.
Published: May 2013

The study of evolution has entered a revolutionary new era, where quantitative and predictive methods are transforming the traditionally qualitative and retrospective approaches of the past. Genomic sequencing and modern computational techniques are permitting quantitative comparisons between variation in the natural world and predictions rooted in neo‐Darwinian theory, revealing the shortcomings of current evolutionary theory, particularly with regard to large‐scale phenomena like macroevolution. Current research spanning and uniting diverse fields and exploring the physical and chemical nature of organisms across temporal, spatial, and organizational scales is replacing the model of evolution as a passive filter selecting for random changes at the nucleotide level with a paradigm in which evolution is a dynamic process both constrained and driven by the informational architecture of organisms across scales, from DNA and chromatin regulation to interactions within and between species and the environment.
Product Market Competition, Monetary Policy Regimes and Inflation Dynamics: Evidence from a Panel of OECD Countries
Authors: Correa‐López Mónica , García‐Serrador Agustín , Mingorance‐Arnáiz Cristina
Published: May 2013

We empirically analyze the impact of product market competition on the responsiveness of inflation to macroeconomic imbalances. If competition is high the response of inflation to lagged inflation, unemployment and import prices is reduced, while inflation is more responsive to changes in productivity growth in countries in which competition is above the OECD average. Given the (‘good luck’) macroeconomic trajectories of the 1990s–2000s, the structural reforms that made goods markets more competitive improved the ability of OECD economies to smooth (dis)inflationary shocks, while changes in the monetary policy framework had a modest role in taming inflation during the Great Moderation.
Parasympathetic vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP): a likely contributor to clozapine‐induced sialorrhoea
Authors: Ekström J , Godoy T , Loy F , Riva A
Published: May 2013

Objective

The parasympathetic transmitter vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) increases salivary gland blood flow and evokes protein secretion and, in some species, such as rats, a small fluid secretion. It interacts synergistically with muscarinics for protein and fluid output. Human salivary acini are supplied with VIP‐containing nerves. We hypothesise that VIP and clozapine, acting together, evoke a volume of saliva greater than the sum of those induced by each drug given separately. It was further considered whether, in the current test situation, circulatory events influenced the magnitude of the secretory response.

Material and Methods

Saliva from parotid glands deprived of their autonomic innervation, and saliva and blood from innervated submandibular glands were collected in adrenoceptor antagonist‐pretreated pentobarbitone‐anaesthetised rats. Initially, the individual and then the combined effects of intravenous doses of VIP and clozapine were established.

Results

The submandibular volume response to the combination was 2–3 times higher, while blood pressure and glandular blood flow did not differ from those to VIP alone. The synergism occurred independent of nerves as shown in denervated parotid glands.

Conclusions

From the current preclinical data, we speculate that VIP of parasympathetic origin, by its synergistic interaction with clozapine, may contribute to the clozapine (muscarinic M1‐receptor)‐induced sialorrhoea in schizophrenics.
L’étranger intimement connu
Authors: Schyns Désirée
Published: May 2013

Dans cet article, nous visons à élucider quelques stratégies de traduction (et d’écriture) mises en œuvre par Nancy Huston, qui figure aujourd'hui parmi les écrivains « translingues » les plus couronnés. Plainsong (1993), roman écrit en anglais et traduit par l'auteur vers le français (Cantiques des plaines, 1993), forme le point de départ de notre réflexion. En premier lieu, nous tâchons de découvrir dans quelle mesure Nancy Huston fait prévaloir son autorité d'auteur dans son autotraduction. Ensuite, en comparant Plainsong–Cantique des plaines à sa traduction en néerlandais, réalisée par l'auteur du présent article, nous mettons en lumière en quoi les stratégies de traduction de Huston diffèrent de celles adoptées par une tierce personne. Les résultats de cette analyse nous permettent de questionner l'opposition classique entre original et traduction, entre créativité et reproduction servile.
Potentials and Pitfalls of Publishing Self‐Translations as Bilingual Editions
Authors: Gentes Eva
Published: May 2013

Recently, there has been increasing interest in literary self‐translation within translation studies. Yet for various reasons the phenomenon remains unknown to most readers. Publishing self‐translations as bilingual editions might be an advisable strategy against this invisibility. However, the publication in a dual‐language format proves to be a highly complex endeavor, opening up a whole new area of research. This article will focus on three aspects: reasons for publishing self‐translations as bilingual editions, potential reading strategies, and possible edition styles. Apart from the well‐known en face edition, editors have developed various ways of arranging texts in order to meet the needs of the intended reader while still respecting the author's bilingual writing. As dual‐language editions are expected to fulfill more functions than just rendering the translation process visible, publishers have to choose the edition style on a case‐by‐case basis according to several decisive factors. Further research on different edition styles and their respective potentials and pitfalls is needed in order for a typology of multilingual editions to be developed. Such a typology might then raise awareness among publishers of the various possibilities for presenting self‐translations.
Decrease in antigen‐specific CD63 basophil expression is associated with the development of tolerance to egg by SOTI in children
Authors: Vila Leticia , Moreno Ana , Gamboa Pedro M. , Martínez‐Aranguren Rubén , Sanz Maria L.
Published: May 2013

Background

In the last decade, there have been an increasing number of studies on achieving tolerance to foods by specific oral tolerance induction (SOTI). Still, the underlying mechanism of SOTI is unknown. Our aim was to describe changes in CD63 expression on basophils following in vitro Ag‐specific stimulation by basophil activation test (BAT), after SOTI with egg in a pediatric population.

Methods

Ten children with persistent allergy to egg were included. Skin prick tests (SPTs) and open food challenges (OFCs) were performed before SOTI. Specific IgE determination and BAT with egg white (EW), ovomucoid (OM), and ovalbumin (OVA) were performed before and after 1 month of the buildup phase of SOTI.

Results

Total tolerance to egg was achieved in 9 cases and partial in one.

After SOTI, there was a significant decrease in mean specific IgE levels (p < 0.05). CD63 expression also decreased (p < 0.05) in all patients.

Conclusion

Decrease in Ag‐specific basophil responsiveness is associated with the development of clinical tolerance by SOTI.
Peri‐operative pain management in children with cerebral palsy: comparative efficacy of epidural vs systemic analgesia protocols
Authors: Moore Robert P. , Wester Tracy , Sunder Rani , Schrock Charles , Park Tae S.
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) is the only surgical intervention with class I evidence supporting permanent reduction in spasticity for children with cerebral palsy (Paediatr Anaesth, 12, 2002, 296; Neurosurg Focus, 21, 2006, e2). Postoperatively, adequate analgesia can be difficult to achieve (J Neurosurg, 105, 2006, 8; Childs Nerv Syst, 17, 2001, 556; Pediatr Neurosurg, 43, 2007, 107; Anesth Analg, 79, 1994, 340; Reg Anesth Pain Med, 24, 1999, 438; Pediatr Anesth, 19, 2009, 1213). This study examines a novel regimen utilizing the combination of epidurally infused ropivacaine – hydromorphone and scheduled ketorolac. This regimen was compared to a protocol utilizing systemic fentanyl and diazepam.

Methods

Following IRB approval, 31 patients receiving epidural analgesia were compared with 41 patients who received systemic analgesia. All surgeries were performed by one surgeon with standardized anesthetic and nursing care. Studied outcomes included: pain scores; episodes of severe pain; nausea, itching; oxygen desaturation; and ICU admission. Data were analyzed using Mann–Whitney U‐test, CHI square, and Fisher exact test where indicated with P < 0.05 considered significant.

Results

Studied groups had similar demographics, biometrics and disease burdens. Patients in the epidural group had statistically and clinically significant reductions in peak recorded pain scores for each 4‐h period in the first 24 postoperative hours. Severe pain (score >5) was markedly reduced in the epidural group with 9% of epidural patients vs. 68% of systemic patients experiencing at least one episode. Fewer epidural patients experienced oxygen desaturation during the first two postoperative days (6.5% vs. 41%, 6.5% vs. 39%).

Conclusion

Epidural analgesia resulted in substantial improvements in pain control and safety. The data supports the superiority of a multimodal analgesia approach centered on epidural analgesia. A similar protocol should be considered following simple laminectomies or procedures associated with lower‐extremity muscle spasm.
Handoff checklists improve the reliability of patient handoffs in the operating room and postanesthesia care unit
Authors: Boat Anne C. , Spaeth James P.
Published: May 2013

Background

Ineffective communications among healthcare providers are common and increases the risk of medical errors. During the perioperative period, multiple handoffs occur within a short period of time, and failure to convey important patient information can compromise safety. We used quality improvement methodology to improve the reliability of our handoffs in the operating room and postanesthesia care unit (PACU).

Methods

Two quality improvement teams were developed to focus on the intraoperative and postanesthesia handoff processes. Key driver diagrams and ‘smart aims’ were developed for each process based on feedback from anesthesia and nursing staff, and handoff checklists were developed and revised using multiple plan‐do‐study‐act cycles. Data on the reliability of the handoff processes were obtained prior to initiation of the projects and throughout the 6‐month project period.

Results

The reliability of intraoperative anesthesia handoffs improved from 20% to 100% with use of the intraoperative handoff checklist. Similarly, with the introduction of a standardized PACU checklist, the reliability of PACU handoffs improved from 59% to greater than 90%.

Conclusion

We utilized quality improvement methodology to develop and implement standardized checklists for handoffs of care in the operating room and PACU. Acceptance of and adherence to the standardized handoff protocols dramatically increased the quality and reliability of our handoff process.
Tianeptine combination for partial or non‐response to selective serotonin re‐uptake inhibitor monotherapy
Authors: Woo Young Sup , Bahk Won‐Myong , Jeong Jong‐Hyun , Lee Seung‐Hwan , Sung Hyeung‐Mo , Pae Chi‐Un , Koo Bon‐Hoon , Kim Won
Published: May 2013

Aims

The goal of this study was to assess the efficacy and tolerability of tianeptine in combination with selective serotonin re‐uptake inhibitor (SSRI) in partial responders or non‐responders to SSRI monotherapy.

Methods

In this prospective, open‐label, 6‐week study, 150 patients with major depressive disorder who had previously not responded or partially responded to SSRI monotherapy were recruited. Tianeptine was given in combination with an SSRI for 6 weeks.

Results

Significant improvements were observed in the mean scores of the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), and Clinical Global Impression–Severity (CGI‐S). The change in the mean HDRS, MADRS, and CGI‐S scores was significant from week 1. The response rates were 64.7% (HDRS) and 68.7% (MADRS), and the remission rates were 34.0% (HDRS) and 42.0% (MADRS) at week 6. Thirty‐six patients (24.0%) reported adverse events that were determined by the investigator to be related to one of the study drugs. The tianeptine and SSRI combination was generally well‐tolerated.

Conclusions

A combination strategy with tianeptine may be an effective and well‐tolerated tool for patients who have failed to adequately respond to SSRI monotherapy.
Validation of computer‐administered clinical rating scale: Hamilton Depression Rating Scale assessment with Interactive Voice Response technology – Japanese version
Authors: Kunugi Hiroshi , Koga Norie , Hashikura Miyako , Noda Takamasa , Shimizu Yu , Kobayashi Takayuki , Yamanaka Jun , Kanemoto Noriaki , Higuchi Teruhiko
Published: May 2013

Aim

The aim of this study was to examine the reliability and validity of the Interactive Voice Response (IVR) program to rate the 17‐item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM‐D) score in Japanese depressive patients.

Methods

Depression severity was assessed in 60 patients by a clinician and psychologists using HAM‐D. Scoring by the IVR program was conducted on the same and the following days. Test–retest reliability, internal consistency, and concurrent validity for total HAM‐D scores were examined by calculating intraclass correlation coefficient, Cronbach's alpha, and Pearson's correlation coefficient. Inter‐rater consistency for each HAM‐D item was examined by Cohen's kappa.

Results

Test–retest reliability of the IVR program was high (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.93). Internal consistency of each total score obtained by the clinician, psychologists, and IVR program was high (Cronbach's alpha: 0.77, 0.79, 0.78, and 0.83). Regarding concurrent validity, correlation coefficients between total scores obtained by the clinician versus IVR and that by the clinician versus psychologists were high (0.81 and 0.93). The HAM‐D total score rated by the clinician was 3 points lower than that of IVR. Inter‐rater consistency for each HAM‐D item evaluated by the clinician versus IVR was estimated to be fair (Cohen's kappa coefficient: 0.02–0.50).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the Japanese IVR HAM‐D program is reliable and valid to assess 17‐item HAM‐D total score in Japanese depressive patients. However, the current program tends to overestimate depression severity, and the score of each item did not always show high agreement with clinician's rating, which warrants further improvement in the program.
Awareness of deficits in Alzheimer's disease patients: Analysis of performance prediction discrepancies
Authors: Antoine Pascal , Nandrino Jean‐Louis , Billiet Caroline
Published: May 2013

Aim

Unawareness has been operationalized in terms of a discrepancy between the patient's self‐reports and three main categories of standards: judgment of a relative, clinical assessment, and objective test performance. The purpose of this study was to develop a new measure of deficit unawareness based on multidimensional, isomorphic, simple tasks and to examine the relationship between this measure and neuropsychological tests.

Methods 

Analysis was conducted on cognitive performance prediction discrepancies in a sample of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients and a matched comparison group.

Results

Patients rated their cognitive functioning more highly than their performance, but their overall self‐reports were lower than the overall self‐reports of the comparison group. AD patients performed significantly lower than their predicted scores in all Dementia Rating Scale (DRS) domains, in contrast to comparison participants, who did not consistently perform significantly lower across domains. All unawareness scores were moderately inter‐correlated, except for memory, and all unawareness scores with the exception of memory were correlated with overall neuropsychological functioning.

Conclusion

A methodological and conceptual difficulty has been identified, and this raises the issue of the generalizability of studies with a focus on memory unawareness. The method proposed seems a good tool to assess the relationships between unawareness and several different aspects of cognitive functioning, in particular executive functioning.
Screening of families of patients with left‐sided cardiovascular anomalies
Authors: Demir Fikri , Karadeniz Cem , Atalay Semra , Tekin Mustafa , Tutar Ercan
Published: May 2013

Background

There is increasing evidence of clustering of certain cardiac anomalies in some families. The frequency and echocardiographic features of such anomalies among the relatives of patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) or other left‐sided cardiovascular anomalies (LSCA) were evaluated.

Methods

The patients with BAV or any other LSCA and their relatives were enrolled in the study. They underwent an echocardiographic examination. The probands were assessed in three groups: BAV, BAV + coarctation of aorta (CoA), and other LSCA. Their relatives were also grouped and evaluated accordingly. The echocardiographic measurements were standardized by Z‐scores.

Results

Eighty‐six probands and 261 relatives were evaluated. The numbers of the patients in the BAV, BAV + CoA, and other LSCA group were 52, 14, and 20, respectively. Any LSCA was determined in 17 (6.5%) of the relatives. Thirteen (5%) had aortic dilatation and the remainder (1.5%) had BAV. Accordingly, BAV incidence among relatives of patients with BAV was found to be 1.9%. A second individual with an LSCA was observed in 12.8% of 86 families investigated. The frequencies of aortic stenosis, aortic regurgitation, aortic stenosis + aortic regurgitation, and aortic dilatation in the patients with BAV were found to be 37.9%, 53%, 25.8% and 48.5%, respectively. In contrast to previous reports, no enlargement was observed in the pulmonary arteries of BAV patients.

Conclusions

BAV and other LSCA are of clinical significance. Because the clustering of LSCA in some families is observed, we recommend echocardiographic screening of those relatives. If this is not possible, at least it should be achieved for BAV patients.
Cloning and Characterization of Luciferase from a Fijian Luminous Click Beetle
Authors: Mitani Yasuo , Futahashi Ryo , Niwa Kazuki , Ohba Nobuyoshi , Ohmiya Yoshihiro
Published: May 2013

Luminous click beetle is distributed almost exclusively in Central and South America with a single genus in Melanesia. Among these click beetles, the description of Melanesian species has been fragmentary, and its luciferase gene and phylogenetic relation to other click beetles still remain uncertain. We collected a living luminous click beetle, Photophorus jansonii in Fiji. It emits green‐yellow light from two spots on the pronotum and has no ventral luminous organ. Here, we cloned a luciferase gene from this insect by RT‐PCR. The deduced amino acid sequence showed high identity of ~85% to the luciferases derived from other click beetle species. The luciferase of the Fijian click beetle was produced as a recombinant protein to characterize its biochemical properties. The Km for d‐luciferin and ATP were 173 and 270 μm, respectively. The luciferase was pH‐insensitive and the spectrum measured at pH 8.0 showed a peak at 559 nm, which was in the range of green‐yellow light as seen in the luminous spot of the living Fijian click beetle. The Fijian click beetle luciferase was assigned to the Elateridae clade by a phylogenetic analysis, but it made a clearly different branch from Pyrophorus group examined in this study.
Oxidation of Tyrosine Photoinduced by Pterin in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Castaño Carolina , Dántola María L. , Oliveros Esther , Thomas Andrés H. , Lorente Carolina
Published: May 2013

Pterins, heterocyclic compounds widespread in biological systems, accumulate in the skin of patients suffering from vitiligo, a chronic depigmentation disorder. Pterins have been previously identified as good photosensitizers under UV‐A irradiation. In this work, we have investigated the ability of pterin (Ptr), the parent compound of oxidized pterins, to photosensitize the oxidation of tyrosine (Tyr) in aqueous solutions. Tyr is an important target in the study of the photodynamic effects of UV‐A radiation because it is oxidized by singlet oxygen (1O2) and plays a key role in polymerization and cross‐linking of proteins. Steady UV‐A irradiation of solutions containing Ptr and Tyr led to the consumption of Tyr and dissolved O2, whereas the Ptr concentration remained unchanged. Concomitantly, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was produced. By combining different analytical techniques, we could establish that the mechanism of the photosensitized process involves an electron transfer from Tyr to the triplet excited state of Ptr. Mass spectrometry, chromatography and fluorescence were used to analyze the photoproducts. In particular, oxygenated and dimeric compounds were identified.