bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterogeneity of antibody responses among clinical responders during grass pollen sublingual immunotherapy
Authors: Baron‐Bodo V. , Horiot S. , Lautrette A. , Chabre H. , Drucbert A. S. , Danzé P. M. , Sénéchal H. , Peltre G. , Galvain S. , Zeldin R. K. , Horak F. , Moingeon P.
Published: August 2013

Background

During allergen‐specific sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), the relevance of changes in specific IgE and IgG antibody titres to treatment efficacy remains to be evaluated at an individual patient level.

Objective

To investigate whether antibody responses can be used as biomarkers for SLIT efficacy.

Methods

Comprehensive quantitative, qualitative and functional analyses of allergen‐specific IgA, IgE, IgG1‐4 and IgM responses were performed using purified Phl p 1 to 12 allergens in sera, saliva and nasal secretions from 82 grass pollen allergic patients. These patients were enrolled in a randomized, double‐blind placebo‐controlled study and assessed in an allergen challenge chamber (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00619827). Antibody responses were monitored in parallel to clinical responses before and after daily sublingual treatment for 4 months with either a grass pollen or a placebo tablet.

Results

A significant mean improvement (i.e. 33–40.6%) in rhinoconjunctivitis total symptom scores was observed in SLIT recipients, irrespective of their baseline patterns of IgE sensitization (i.e. narrow, intermediate, broad) to grass pollen allergens. SLIT did not induce any de novo IgE sensitization. Clinical responders encompassed both immunoreactive patients who exhibited strong increases in titres, affinity and/or blocking activity of grass‐pollen‐specific IgGs (representing 17% of treated patients), as well as patients with no detectable antibody responses distinguishing them from the placebo group. No significant changes were detected in antibody titres in saliva and nasal washes, even in clinical responders.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Sublingual immunotherapy with a grass pollen tablet is efficacious irrespective of the patients' baseline sensitization to either single or multiple grass pollen allergens. Seric IgG responses may contribute to SLIT‐induced clinical tolerance in a fraction (i.e. 17%) of patients, but additional immune mechanisms are involved in most patients. Consequently, antibody responses cannot be used as a marker of SLIT efficacy at an individual patient level.
Rapamycin has suppressive and stimulatory effects on human plasmacytoid dendritic cell functions
Authors: Boor P P C , Metselaar H J , Mancham S , van der Laan L J W , Kwekkeboom J
Published: August 2013

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDC) are involved in innate immunity by interferon (IFN)-α production, and in adaptive immunity by stimulating T cells and inducing generation of regulatory T cells (Treg). In this study we studied the effects of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibition by rapamycin, a commonly used immunosuppressive and anti-cancer drug, on innate and adaptive immune functions of human PDC. A clinically relevant concentration of rapamycin inhibited Toll-like receptor (TLR)-7-induced IFN-α secretion potently (−64%) but TLR-9-induced IFN-α secretion only slightly (−20%), while the same concentration suppressed proinflammatory cytokine production by TLR-7-activated and TLR-9-activated PDC with similar efficacy. Rapamycin inhibited the ability of both TLR-7-activated and TLR-9-activated PDC to stimulate production of IFN-γ and interleukin (IL)-10 by allogeneic T cells. Surprisingly, mTOR-inhibition enhanced the capacity of TLR-7-activated PDC to stimulate naive and memory T helper cell proliferation, which was caused by rapamycin-induced up-regulation of CD80 expression on PDC. Finally, rapamycin treatment of TLR-7-activated PDC enhanced their capacity to induce CD4+forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3)+ regulatory T cells, but did not affect the generation of suppressive CD8+CD38+lymphocyte activation gene (LAG)-3+ Treg. In general, rapamycin inhibits innate and adaptive immune functions of TLR-stimulated human PDC, but enhances the ability of TLR-7-stimulated PDC to stimulate CD4+ T cell proliferation and induce CD4+FoxP3+ regulatory T cell generation.
Intraoperative Complications during Sinus Floor Elevation Using Two Different Ultrasonic Approaches: A Two‐Center, Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Stacchi Claudio , Vercellotti Tomaso , Toschetti Annamaria , Speroni Stefano , Salgarello Stefano , Di Lenarda Roberto
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of intraoperative complications during maxillary sinus elevation with lateral approach using a piezoelectric device with two different surgical techniques.

Materials and Methods

Antrostomies were randomly performed by outlining a window (group A, 36 patients) or by eroding the cortical wall with a grinding insert until the membrane was visible under a thin layer of bone, before outlining the window (group B, 36 patients). Occurrence of membrane perforation, laceration of vascular branches, and surgical time was recorded.

Results

Seventy‐two patients underwent sinus floor elevation: four perforations (11.1%) were observed in group A (two occurred during elevation with hand instruments) and zero perforations in group B (p < .05). No evidence of vascular lacerations was registered in both groups. A clinically insignificant but statistically shorter surgical time was recorded in group A (9.2 ± 3.7 minutes) than in group B (13.3 ± 2.4 minutes; p < .05).

Conclusions

Within the limits of the present study, it may be concluded that ultrasonic erosion of the lateral wall of the sinus is a more predictable technique than piezoelectric outlining of a bone window in preventing from accidental perforations of Schneiderian membrane during sinus augmentation procedures.
Radiographic Monitoring of Changes in Bone Height after Implant Placement in Combination with an Internal Sinus Lift without Graft Material
Authors: Rammelsberg Peter , Mahabadi Jaleh , Eiffler Constantin , Koob Andreas , Kappel Stefanie , Gabbert Olaf
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The objective was to investigate changes in bone height after implant placement in combination with simultaneous internal sinus lift (ISL) without graft material.

Materials and Methods

For a retrospective clinical study, 101 implants placed in combination with ISL without graft were selected. The study included 66 patients (mean age 59.6 years) with radiographs from baseline (T0) and two follow‐ups after mean times of 7 months (T1) and 17 months (T2). Apical changes in bone height were measured at the mesial and distal aspects of the implant. Correlation analysis was performed to identify factors affecting changes in bone height.

Results

Mean apical bone gains of 1.0 mm (mesial) and 1.7 mm (distal) were observed at T1. At T2, mean apical bone gains were 1.5 mm and 2.1 mm (distal). The change in apical bone height was significant between T0 and T1, between T0 and T2, and between T1 and T2. Rank correlation analysis revealed a significant correlation (Spearman rho: –0.2 to –0.4) between small initial bone height and a greater amount of apical bone gain.

Conclusions

A gain in apical bone height can be expected if implants are placed in combination with ISL without graft material. Variability is high, however.
Weight loss for individuals with type 2 diabetes following a very‐low‐calorie diet in a community‐based setting with trained facilitators for 12 weeks
Authors: Rolland C. , Lula S. , Jenner C. , Dyson L. , Macdonald I. , Johnston K. L. , Broom I.
Published: August 2013

What is already known about this subject

Approximately 80% of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are overweight or obese.

Weight loss produces numerous benefits in T2DM.

People with T2DM have difficulty losing and maintaining weight.

What this study adds

Provision of a very‐low‐calorie diet (VLCD) with group support and behaviour therapy for patients with T2DM is feasible within a community‐based setting with trained facilitators.

VLCD approaches for weight management in T2DM can achieve more than 90% of weight loss as compared with obese individuals without T2DM.

Identification of the need to investigate the full impact of this approach in patients with T2DM by assessing changes in glycaemia, liver function and medication.

Approximately 80% of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are overweight or obese, and obesity compounds the cardiovascular risk of T2DM. The aim of this retrospective study was twofold: first, to investigate whether a 12‐week community‐based very‐low‐calorie diet (VLCD) programme can result in important weight loss; and second, to investigate any potential difference in the weight loss achieved using this community‐based approach in individuals with and without T2DM. Three hundred and fifty‐five participants with T2DM were matched for age, body mass index (BMI) and gender to participants without T2DM (total cohort comprised 204 males: 506 females (mean ± standard deviation); age (years) 54.0 ± 9.1; BMI (kg m−2) 41.6 ± 8.1; weight (kg) 116.1 ± 25.1). The programme included a daily intake of 550 kcal in addition to group support and behaviour therapy provided by trained facilitators within a community‐based setting. After 12 weeks, there was significant weight loss within each group when compared with baseline (T2DM: 115.0 ± 24.4 kg vs. 96.7 ± 21.4 kg, P < 0.0001; non‐T2DM: 117.2 ± 25.8 kg vs. 97.3 ± 22.2 kg, P < 0.0001). At 12 weeks, weight change (−18.3 ± 7.3 kg vs. −19.9 ± 7.0 kg, P = 0.012) and BMI change (−6.7 ± 2.9 kg m−2 vs. −7.1 ± 2.1 kg m−2, P = 0.011) were significantly less in the T2DM group when compared with the non‐T2DM group. Our results suggest that the use of VLCD approaches for weight management in T2DM can achieve more than 90% of the weight loss seen in obese individuals without T2DM.
Life History as a Predictor of Salamander Recovery Rate from Timber Harvest in Southern Appalachian Forests, U.S.A
Authors: CONNETTE GRANT M. , SEMLITSCH RAYMOND D.
Published: August 2013

Forest management often represents a balance between social, economic, and ecological objectives. In the eastern United States, numerous studies have established that terrestrial salamander populations initially decline in abundance following timber harvest, yet the large‐scale and long‐term consequences are relatively unknown. We used count data from terrestrial survey points to examine the relation between salamander abundance and historic timber harvest while accounting for imperfect detection of individuals. Overall, stream‐ and terrestrial‐breeding salamanders appeared to differ by magnitude of population decline, rate of population recovery, and extent of recolonization from surrounding forest. Specifically, estimated abundance of both species groups was positively associated with stand age and recovery rates were predicted to increase over time for red‐legged salamanders (Plethodon shermani) and decrease in stream‐breeding species. Abundance of stream‐breeding salamanders was predicted to reach a peak by 100 years after timber harvest, and the population growth rate of red‐legged salamanders was predicted to undergo a significant increase 100 years after harvest. Estimated abundance of stream‐breeding salamanders in young forest stands was also negatively associated with the distance to adjacent forest, a result that suggests immigration has a role in the recovery of these species. Our results indicate that salamander abundance in young forest stands may be only modestly lower than in more mature forest but that full recovery from timber harvest may take a substantial amount of time and that species life history may affect patterns of recovery.

Historia de Vida como un Vaticinador de la Tasa de Recuperación de una Salamandra a la Colecta de Madera en los Bosques del Sur de los Apalaches, E.U.A
Contribution of Systematic Reviews to Management Decisions
Authors: COOK CARLY N. , POSSINGHAM HUGH P. , FULLER RICHARD A.
Published: August 2013

Systematic reviews comprehensively summarize evidence about the effectiveness of conservation interventions. We investigated the contribution to management decisions made by this growing body of literature. We identified 43 systematic reviews of conservation evidence, 23 of which drew some concrete conclusions relevant to management. Most reviews addressed conservation interventions relevant to policy decisions; only 35% considered practical on‐the‐ground management interventions. The majority of reviews covered only a small fraction of the geographic and taxonomic breadth they aimed to address (median = 13% of relevant countries and 16% of relevant taxa). The likelihood that reviews contained at least some implications for management tended to increase as geographic coverage increased and to decline as taxonomic breadth increased. These results suggest the breadth of a systematic review requires careful consideration. Reviews identified a mean of 312 relevant primary studies but excluded 88% of these because of deficiencies in design or a failure to meet other inclusion criteria. Reviews summarized on average 284 data sets and 112 years of research activity, yet the likelihood that their results had at least some implications for management did not increase as the amount of primary research summarized increased. In some cases, conclusions were elusive despite the inclusion of hundreds of data sets and years of cumulative research activity. Systematic reviews are an important part of the conservation decision making tool kit, although we believe the benefits of systematic reviews could be significantly enhanced by increasing the number of reviews focused on questions of direct relevance to on‐the‐ground managers; defining a more focused geographic and taxonomic breadth that better reflects available data; including a broader range of evidence types; and appraising the cost‐effectiveness of interventions.

Contribuciones de las Revisiones Sistemáticas a las Decisiones de Manejo
Incentivizing Monitoring and Compliance in Trophy Hunting
Authors: BUNNEFELD NILS , EDWARDS CHARLES T. T. , ATICKEM ANAGAW , HAILU FETENE , MILNER‐GULLAND E. J.
Published: August 2013

Conservation scientists are increasingly focusing on the drivers of human behavior and on the implications of various sources of uncertainty for management decision making. Trophy hunting has been suggested as a conservation tool because it gives economic value to wildlife, but recent examples show that overharvesting is a substantial problem and that data limitations are rife. We use a case study of trophy hunting of an endangered antelope, the mountain nyala (Tragelaphus buxtoni), to explore how uncertainties generated by population monitoring and poaching interact with decision making by 2 key stakeholders: the safari companies and the government. We built a management strategy evaluation model that encompasses the population dynamics of mountain nyala, a monitoring model, and a company decision making model. We investigated scenarios of investment into antipoaching and monitoring by governments and safari companies. Harvest strategy was robust to the uncertainty in the population estimates obtained from monitoring, but poaching had a much stronger effect on quota and sustainability. Hence, reducing poaching is in the interests of companies wishing to increase the profitability of their enterprises, for example by engaging community members as game scouts. There is a threshold level of uncertainty in the population estimates beyond which the year‐to‐year variation in the trophy quota prevented planning by the safari companies. This suggests a role for government in ensuring that a baseline level of population monitoring is carried out such that this level is not exceeded. Our results illustrate the importance of considering the incentives of multiple stakeholders when designing frameworks for resource use and when designing management frameworks to address the particular sources of uncertainty that affect system sustainability most heavily.

Incentivando el Monitoreo y el Cumplimiento en la Caza de Trofeos
Multiple Lineages of Avian Malaria Parasites (Plasmodium) in the Galapagos Islands and Evidence for Arrival via Migratory Birds
Authors: LEVIN I. I. , ZWIERS P. , DEEM S. L. , GEEST E. A. , HIGASHIGUCHI J. M. , IEZHOVA T. A. , JIMÉNEZ‐UZCÁTEGUI G. , KIM D. H. , MORTON J. P. , PERLUT N. G. , RENFREW R. B. , SARI E. H. R. , VALKIUNAS G. , Parker P. G.
Published: August 2013

Haemosporidian parasites in the genus Plasmodium were recently detected through molecular screening in the Galapagos Penguin (Spheniscus mendiculus). We summarized results of an archipelago‐wide screen of 3726 endemic birds representing 22 species for Plasmodium spp. through a combination of molecular and microscopy techniques. Three additional Plasmodium lineages were present in Galapagos. Lineage A–infected penguins, Yellow Warblers (Setophaga petechia aureola), and one Medium Ground Finch (Geospiza fortis) was detected at multiple sites in multiple years. The other 3 lineages were each detected at one site and at one time; apparently, they were transient infections of parasites not established on the archipelago. No gametocytes were found in blood smears of infected individuals; thus, endemic Galapagos birds may be dead‐end hosts for these Plasmodium lineages. Determining when and how parasites and pathogens arrive in Galapagos is key to developing conservation strategies to prevent and mitigate the effects of introduced diseases. To assess the potential for Plasmodium parasites to arrive via migratory birds, we analyzed blood samples from 438 North American breeding Bobolinks (Dolichonyx oryzivorus), the only songbird that regularly migrates through Galapagos. Two of the ephemeral Plasmodium lineages (B and C) found in Galapagos birds matched parasite sequences from Bobolinks. Although this is not confirmation that Bobolinks are responsible for introducing these lineages, evidence points to higher potential arrival rates of avian pathogens than previously thought.

Linajes Múltiples de Parásitos de Malaria Aviar (Plasmodium) en las Islas Galápagos y Evidencia de su Arribo por Medio de Aves Migratorias
Googling Trends in Conservation Biology
Authors: PROULX RAPHAËL , MASSICOTTE PHILIPPE , PÉPINO MARC
Published: August 2013

Web‐crawling approaches, that is, automated programs data mining the internet to obtain information about a particular process, have recently been proposed for monitoring early signs of ecosystem degradation or for establishing crop calendars. However, lack of a clear conceptual and methodological framework has prevented the development of such approaches within the field of conservation biology. Our objective was to illustrate how Google Trends, a freely accessible web‐crawling engine, can be used to track changes in timing of biological processes, spatial distribution of invasive species, and level of public awareness about key conservation issues. Google Trends returns the number of internet searches that were made for a keyword in a given region of the world over a defined period. Using data retrieved online for 13 countries, we exemplify how Google Trends can be used to study the timing of biological processes, such as the seasonal recurrence of pollen release or mosquito outbreaks across a latitudinal gradient. We mapped the spatial extent of results from Google Trends for 5 invasive species in the United States and found geographic patterns in invasions that are consistent with their coarse‐grained distribution at state levels. From 2004 through 2012, Google Trends showed that the level of public interest and awareness about conservation issues related to ecosystem services, biodiversity, and climate change increased, decreased, and followed both trends, respectively. Finally, to further the development of research approaches at the interface of conservation biology, collective knowledge, and environmental management, we developed an algorithm that allows the rapid retrieval of Google Trends data.
The role of an Aboriginal women's group in meeting the high needs of clients attending outpatient alcohol and other drug treatment
Authors: Lee Kim San Kylie , Dawson Angela , Conigrave Katherine M
Published: August 2013

Introduction and Aims

Support groups are typically offered as part of specialist alcohol or other drug treatment. However, their usefulness with Indigenous Australians has not been examined. This paper provides a profile of Aboriginal women attending an inner city outpatient alcohol and other drug treatment service, insight into how effective women and staff perceive the support group to be at meeting their needs and suggestions for improvements.

Design and Methods

Structured interviews were conducted with 24 Aboriginal female clients of an outpatient treatment service and with 21 staff from across that service and the local Aboriginal Medical Service. Client interviews also assessed alcohol consumption and mental health risk (Indigenous Risk Impact Screen).

Results

Clients reported social and health indicators illustrating disadvantage and complex needs. Most clients and staff perceived the group to be useful and easily accessible. The participants discussed positive elements including opportunities for shared experience in a non‐judgemental environment, practical support and health education. Staff reported how the safe, relaxed environment of the group helped with early identification of issues and user‐friendly pathways for treatment access. Suggested improvements included greater involvement from Aboriginal staff and community members and enhanced communication with other staff.

Discussion and Conclusions

Clients and staff recognised the usefulness of the group, including the opportunities it provided for socialisation and early intervention. Comprehensive research is needed to determine the types and sources of support that best assist Aboriginal women with substance use disorders. [Lee KS K, Dawson A, Conigrave K M. The role of an Aboriginal women's group in meeting the high needs of clients attending outpatient alcohol and other drug treatment. Drug Alcohol Rev 2013;32:618–626]
Natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) for clinical management of intra‐abdominal diseases
Authors: Liu Liu , Chiu Philip W. Y. , Reddy Nagewasher , Ho Khek‐Yu , Kitano Seigo , Seo Dong Wan , Tajiri Hisao ,   APNOTES Working Group
Published: August 2013

Clinical research on natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) has been increasingly reported over the past 5 years and more than 1200 patients have received various NOTES procedures. The present article reviews the clinical practice of NOTES for the treatment of intra‐abdominal diseases, and was carried out through systematic search with specific keywords in major databases for NOTES‐related clinical literature. The last date of the search was 15 August, 2012. Transvaginal cholecystectomy is the commonest NOTES procedure reported, and its clinical feasibility and safety was established through prospective case series and randomized trials. There is a regional difference in NOTES development with the majority of NOTES fromCaucasian countries being transvaginal cholecystectomy and most reports from Asian countries being NOTES‐related procedures. Safe closure of gastrointestinal access remains challenging, and novel endoscopic instruments are essential to enhance future development of NOTES.
Population structure, population history and DNA barcoding of fruit fly Bactrocera latifrons (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Meeyen Kowit , Nanork Sopaladawan Piyamas , Pramual Pairot
Published: August 2013

The fruit fly Bactrocera latifrons (Hendel) is an important pest of commercially significant plants such as chili, tomato and eggplant. The species is native to South and Southeast Asia, but has now invaded Japan, Hawaii and Africa. In this study, mitochondrial DNA sequences were used to infer genetic structure and demographic history of B. latifrons. The efficiency of DNA barcodes for identification of B. latifrons was also tested. Ninety‐three specimens infesting four host‐plant species were obtained from 11 sampling locations in Thailand. The mitochondrial haplotype network revealed no major divergent lineage, which was consistent with a phylogenetic analysis that found strong support for the monophyly of B. latifrons. Population pairwise FST revealed that most (65%) comparisons were not significantly different, suggesting a high rate of gene flow. Analysis of molecular variance (amova) found no significant genetic differentiation among populations from different host‐plant species. Sharing of several haplotypes among flies from different host‐plants indicates that the flies were moved freely across the plant species. Demographic history analysis revealed that the population has undergone recent expansion dating back to the end of the last glaciation. Thus, the results indicate that both ongoing and historical factors have played important roles in determining the genetic structure and diversity of B. latifrons. DNA barcoding analysis revealed that B. latifrons specimens were clearly differentiated from other species with 100% correct identification. Therefore, cytochrome oxidase I (COI) barcoding sequences could be effectively used to identify this important pest species, which could encourage monitoring and control efforts for this species.
Effects of new antiepileptic drugs on circulatory markers for vascular risk in patients with newly diagnosed epilepsy
Authors: Kim Dong Wook , Lee Seo‐Young , Shon Young‐Min , Kim Ji Hyun
Published: August 2013

Although it is well documented that long‐term therapy with older antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) leads to an increase in risk for atherosclerosis, there has been only limited information regarding the vascular risk in patients who are treated with new AEDs. We therefore conducted a prospective longitudinal study to assess the potential effects of new AEDs on the circulatory markers for vascular risk in patients with newly diagnosed epilepsy. We recruited adult patients with epilepsy who began to receive monotherapy with one of the new AEDs, including levetiracetam (LEV), oxcarbazepine (OXC), and topiramate (TPM). Circulatory markers of vascular risk were measured twice before and after 6 months of AED monotherapy. A total of 109 patients completed the study (LEV, n = 40; OXC, n = 40; TPM, n = 29). Six months of monotherapy resulted in significant increases in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LEV, from 90.2 to 98.5 mg/dl, 9.2% increase, p = 0.025; OXC, from 96.5 to 103.2 mg/dl, 7.0% increase, p = 0.049), homocysteine (LEV, from 7.9 to 10.4 μm, 31.6% increase, p = 0.001; OXC, from 8.7 to 11.5 μm, 32.2% increase, p < 0.001; TPM, from 8.3 to 12.3 μm, 48.2% increase, p < 0.001), apolipoprotein B (LEV, from 63.6 to 77.4 mg/dl, 21.7% increase; OXC, from 67.0 to 83.2 mg/dl, 24.2% increase; TPM, from 66.7 to 84.4 mg/dl, 26.5% increase; all p < 0.001), and apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A1 ratio (LEV, from 0.51 to 0.61, 19.6% increase; OXC, from 0.52 to 0.67, 28.8% increase; TPM, from 0.50 to 0.67, 34.0% increase; all p < 0.001). Serum apolipoprotein A1 and folate were significantly decreased in TPM (from 139.1 to 132.1 mg/dl, 5.0% decrease, p = 0.014) and OXC (from 8.1 to 6.4 ng/ml, 21.0% decrease, p = 0.046) groups, respectively. There were no significant changes in total cholesterol, triglyceride, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, lipoprotein(a), and vitamin B12 in all three groups. Our findings suggest that treatment with some new AEDs might be associated with alterations in circulatory markers of vascular risk, which could contribute to the acceleration of atherosclerosis and increased risk of vascular diseases.
Formant Frequencies are Acoustic Cues to Caller Discrimination and are a Weak Indicator of the Body Size of Corncrake Males
Authors: Budka Michał , Osiejuk Tomasz S.
Published: August 2013

Source–filter theory assumes that calls are generated by a vocal source and are subsequently filtered by the vocal tract. The air in the vocal tract vibrates preferentially at certain resonant frequencies, called formants. Formant frequencies can be a good indicator of the caller's characteristics, such as sex, age, body size or individual identity. Although source–filter theory was originally proposed for mammals, formants are also observed in birds, and some bird species have been shown to perceive formants. In this study, we evaluated the hypotheses that formant frequencies (1) are an indicator of body size and (2) can be used for individual discrimination by a nocturnal bird species, the corncrake (Crex crex). We analysed calls of 104 males from Poland and the Czech Republic. Linear regression models showed that the males with a longer head (including the bill length) had a significantly lower formant dispersion and lower fourth and fifth formant frequencies. However, we found no significant relationships between body weight and any filter‐related acoustic measurement. The formant frequencies had smaller within‐ than between‐individual coefficients of variation. This characteristic of the formant frequencies implies a high potential for individual coding. A discriminant function analysis correctly assigned 94.8% of the calls to the caller based on formants from second to fifth. Our results indicated that the formant frequencies are a weak indicator of the body size of the sender in the corncrake. However, even weak dependence between body size and acoustic properties of signal may be important in natural selection process. Alternatively, such a weak dependence may be observed, because receivers ignore the acoustical, formant‐based cues of body size. Simultaneously, the formants might potentially provide acoustic cues to individual discrimination and could be used to census and monitoring tasks.
Reaching a Critical Juncture for Our Kids: The Need to Reassess School‐Justice Practices
Authors: Skiba Russell J.
Published: August 2013

Perceived increases in school disruption and violence led to an increased reliance on punitive and exclusionary approaches to school discipline in America's schools in the 1980s and 1990s. Evaluation of these policies has shown little evidence that reliance on suspension and expulsion has led to improvements in school safety and student behavior. Indeed, removal from educational opportunity associated with exclusionary school discipline places students at increased risk of a variety of negative outcomes, including academic disengagement, school dropout, and contact with the juvenile justice system. These risks are even more likely to befall students of color, especially African American students, as they are disproportionately exposed to exclusionary approaches. In recent years, a preventive approach to discipline, stressing instruction and relationship rather than punishment, has begun to provide a clear alternative to zero tolerance.

Keypoints

Although zero tolerance was thought to be a promising disciplinary approach, extensive study has found that it does not contribute to preventing school violence or improving school behavior.

Students of color, especially Black students, are overrepresented in out‐of‐school suspension and expulsion, and this is not due to poverty or higher rates of misbehavior among African American students.

Removing students from school through suspension and expulsion seems to place students at risk for a host of negative long‐term outcomes, including decreased school engagement, negative academic outcomes, dropout, and increased risk for juvenile justice involvement.

There are effective alternatives to suspension and expulsion that can keep schools safe without threatening students' opportunity to learn.
Responding to Students Affected by Trauma: Collaboration Across Public Systems
Authors: Smithgall Cheryl , Cusick Gretchen , Griffin Gene
Published: August 2013

Many youth involved with the juvenile justice system have been exposed to trauma and also struggle in school. Yet, success in school may help to mitigate the effects of trauma exposure and reduce the likelihood of engaging in high‐risk behaviors. Building on the research connecting trauma and learning, this article draws out lessons learned from three initiatives in which public systems attempt to assess trauma and meet both the behavioral health and academic needs of students. Promoting a shared view of child development and an understanding of the impact of trauma on that developmental trajectory is an important step toward implementing an effective, coordinated system of care for high‐risk youth.

Keypoints

The education and juvenile justice systems overlap at multiple points, and coordinating their approach to acting‐out youth would be more beneficial to the youth and the systems that serve them.

As juvenile justice systems increasingly recognize the importance of family and the need to address trauma, how to involve and engage families in trauma‐focused assessment and treatment will become all the more critical to juvenile justice practice.
Impact of human‐induced environmental changes on genetic structure and variability inAtlantic salmon,Salmo salar
Authors: Johnsen A. , Brabrand Å. , Anmarkrud J. A. , Bjørnstad G. , Pavels H. , Saltveit S. J.
Published: August 2013

The genetic effects onAtlantic salmon,Salmo salarL., populations from potential bottleneck situations caused by human activities in two Norwegian rivers,Lærdalselva andBatnfjordelva, were studied by analysingDNAfrom fish scales collected before and after the populations had been exposed to human‐induced changes: river regulation,Gyrodactylus salarisinfection and rotenone treatment. Using 15 microsatellites, no significant changes were found in the genetic structure and diversity of four population samples fromLærdalselva collected over 34 years. However, salmon fromLærdalselva were significantly differentiated from nearby (Årøyelva) and more distant (Batnfjordelva andSuldalslågen) populations, testifying to the power of the marker system to detect small genetic differences. Furthermore, two population samples fromBatnfjordelva, collected 20 years apart, showed low but significant differentiation. The lack of effects on neutral genetic composition inLærdalselva, despite several potentially severe bottleneck events, indicates that stocking and sea cohorts maintain the status quo of this population.
Electrical Resistivity Characterization of Anisotropy in the Biscayne Aquifer
Authors: Yeboah‐Forson Albert , Whitman Dean
Published: August 2013

Electrical anisotropy occurs when electric current flow varies with azimuth. In porous media, this may correspond to anisotropy in the hydraulic conductivity resulting from sedimentary fabric, fractures, or dissolution. In this study, a 28‐electrode resistivity imaging system was used to investigate electrical anisotropy at 13 sites in the Biscayne Aquifer of SE Florida using the rotated square array method. The measured coefficient of electrical anisotropy generally ranged from 1.01 to 1.12 with values as high as 1.36 found at one site. The observed electrical anisotropy was used to estimate hydraulic anisotropy (ratio of maximum to minimum hydraulic conductivity) which ranged from 1.18 to 2.83. The largest values generally were located on the Atlantic Coastal Ridge while the lowest values were in low elevation areas on the margin of the Everglades to the west. The higher values of anisotropy found on the ridge may be due to increased dissolution rates of the oolitic facies of the Miami formation limestone compared with the bryozoan facies to the west. The predominate trend of minimum resistivity and maximum hydraulic conductivity was E‐W/SE‐NW beneath the ridge and E‐W/SW‐NE farther west. The anisotropy directions are similar to the predevelopment groundwater flow direction as indicated in published studies. This suggests that the observed anisotropy is related to the paleo‐groundwater flow in the Biscayne Aquifer.
TSAT is a better predictor than ferritin of hemoglobin response to Epoetin alfa in US dialysis patients
Authors: Gaweda Adam E. , Bhat Premila , Maglinte Gregory A. , Chang Chun‐Lan , Hill Jerrold , Park Grace S. , Ashfaq Akhtar , Gitlin Matthew
Published: August 2013

Clinical guidelines recommend concurrent treatment of anemia in end‐stage renal disease with erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents (ESAs) and iron. However, there are mixed data about optimal iron supplementation. To help address this gap, the relationship between iron markers and hemoglobin (Hb) response to ESA (Epoetin alfa) dose was examined. Electronic medical records of 1902 US chronic hemodialysis patients were analyzed over a 12‐month period between June 2009 and June 2010. The analysis included patients who had at least one Hb value during each 4‐week interval for four consecutive intervals (k − 2, k − 1, k, and k + 1; k is the index interval), received at least one ESA dose during intervals k − 1 or k, had at least one transferrin saturation (TSAT) value at interval k, and at least one ferritin value during intervals k − 2, k − 1, or k. Effect modification by TSAT and ferritin on Hb response was evaluated using the generalized estimating equations approach. Patients had a mean (standard deviation) age of 62 (15) years; 41% were Caucasian, 34% African American, 65% had hypertension, and 39% diabetes. Transferrin saturation, but not ferritin, had a statistically significant (P < 0.05) modifying effect on Hb response. Maximum Hb response was achieved when TSAT was 34%, with minimal incremental effect beyond these levels. Of the two standard clinical iron markers, TSAT should be used as the primary marker of the modifying effect of iron on Hb response to ESA. Long‐term safety of iron use to improve Hb response to ESA warrants further study.
Multimodal Assessment of Optokinetic Visual Stimulation Response in Migraine With Aura
Authors: Griebe Martin , Flux Florian , Wolf Marc E. , Hennerici Michael G. , Szabo Kristina
Published: August 2013

Objective

This study aimed to assess activation patterns and the hemodynamic response to optokinetic stimulation in migraine with aura patients compared with controls.

Background

It has been proposed that altered visual motion processing in striate and extrastriate visual areas is present in migraine patients and might play a role in the pathophysiology of the disease. Besides activating a large visual network, optokinetic stimulation in particular has been shown to provoke symptoms associated with migraine.

Methods

In this study, we examined the response to visual stimulation in 18 migraine with aura patients compared with 18 healthy controls by using functional magnetic resonance imaging and functional transcranial Doppler, thereby assessing the activation pattern of the visual areas (V1–V5) as well as the vasomotor reactivity of the posterior cerebral artery. For stimulation, we used a vertically rotating optokinetic drum with complex colored figures.

Results

Group analysis of migraineurs with aura vs controls revealed different activation patterns in functional magnetic resonance imaging: attenuation of the physiological right lateralization with a significantly increased activation in the left V5 complex, the left area V3, and the right V5 complex. Analysis of the visually evoked flow response of the cerebral blood flow velocity in the posterior cerebral artery showed a larger side‐difference of the offset latency (P < .05) and a reduced steepness of the decreasing slope on the left side (P < .05).

Conclusion

Combining examinations with a good structural (functional magnetic resonance imaging) and temporal (functional transcranial Doppler) resolution is a novel approach to migraine pathophysiology. Our findings of an altered pattern of activation by optokinetic visual stimulation with hyperresponsiveness in visual areas activated by motion perception (V5 and V3) further strengthen the concept of an interictal motion‐processing deficit in migraine. This is complemented by the slower restitution of the visually evoked flow response after stimulus offset in migraine with aura patients.
Headache as a Crucial Symptom in the Etiology of Convexal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Rico María , Benavente Lorena , Para Marta , Santamarta Elena , Pascual Julio , Calleja Sergio
Published: August 2013

Background

Convexal subarachnoid hemorrhage has been associated with different diseases, reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome and cerebral amyloid angiopathy being the 2 main causes.

Objective

To investigate whether headache at onset is determinant in identifying the underlying etiology for convexal subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Methods

After searching in the database of our hospital, 24 patients were found with convexal subarachnoid hemorrhage in the last 10 years. The mean age of the sample was 69.5 years. We recorded data referring to demographics, symptoms and neuroimaging.

Results

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy patients accounted for 46% of the sample, 13% were diagnosed with reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome, 16% with several other etiologies, and in 25%, the cause remained unknown. Mild headache was present only in 1 (9%) of the 11 cerebral amyloid angiopathy patients, while severe headache was the dominant feature in 86% of cases of the remaining etiologies.

Conclusion

Headache is a key symptom allowing a presumptive etiological diagnosis of convexal subarachnoid hemorrhage. While the absence of headache suggests cerebral amyloid angiopathy as the more probable cause, severe headache obliges us to rule out other etiologies, such as reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome.
An unusual co‐occurrence of Langerhans cell histiocytosis and Rosai–Dorfman disease: report of a case and review of the literature
Authors: Cohen‐Barak Eran , Rozenman Dganit , Schafer Jan , Krausz Judith , Dodiuk‐Gad Roni , Gabriel Hertzel , Shani‐Adir Ayelet
Published: August 2013

Background

The co‐occurrence of Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH; disorder characterized by proliferation of Langerhans cells) and Rosai–Dorfman disease (RDD; histiocytic entity that is one of the non‐Langerhans cell diseases) is extremely rare and raises several questions regarding the nature of the diseases.

Methods

We describe a 10‐year‐old boy who presented with a 3‐month history of right scalp swelling. Clinical, pathological, and imaging evaluation disclosed multiple LCH of bone and cutaneous RDD.

Results

After initiating prednisone and vinblastine therapy, the patient developed an asymptomatic diffuse papular eruption. Biopsy revealed cutaneous RDD. Treatment was continued with a good response of bone LCH and significant amelioration of the cutaneous findings.

Conclusions

Co‐occurrence of LCH and RDD is a rare phenomenon. Various explanations, including the role of chemotherapy, are suggested based on our and several previously reported cases.
Fixed drug eruption in Bangladeshi population: confirmed by provocative test
Authors: Rahman Muhammad Hasibur
Published: August 2013

Background

Fixed drug eruption is designated as a typical allergic reaction occurring due to exposure to a medicine. This common dermatological condition is often being ignored for its causative agent as well as the patient's sufferings sometimes become unpredictable.

Aims

The objective of this large population study is to identify the causative agents responsible for fixed drug eruption.

Materials & Methods

The study is comprised of 120 suspected patients of fixed drug eruption. History, classic clinical features of well circumscribed erythema, edema, and violaceous pigmentation, and the recurrence of the eruptions on the same sites upon re‐administering drug were used as diagnostic criteria. The drug(s) causing allergic reactions were confirmed by provocation tests.

Results

The incidence of drug eruption was found distributed in 0.62% amongst all dermatology outpatient attendees. The male to female ratio recorded was 7:2. The highest number of cases was observed within in the age group of 21–35 years. The provocation tests were positive in 92 among 120. The genitalia and lips/face were the most commonly affected site for fixed drug eruption.

Discussion

The drug sulphonamide (including co‐trimoxazole) accounted for the highest number of cases of eruptions (28.33 %). The other drugs, in order of frequency, responsible for the cause of eruptions were identified as nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, tetracycline, metronidazole, herbal medicine, paracetamol, fluconazole, penicillin, Griseofulvin, and homeopathic medicine, etc.

Conclusion

Drug reactions are very frequently experienced by dermatologists in their day‐to‐day practice. The patients are often ignorant of the drugs consumed and often do not accept them as an etiologic factor. A detailed drug history as well as the complaints will be helpful before undertaking the provocation test.
Current trends in leprosy transmission in eastern India in the era of 12‐month multi‐drug treatment: a hospital‐based retrospective study
Authors: Ghosh Aparajita , Panda Saumya
Published: August 2013

Objectives

Our objective was to study current trends in the occurrence of new cases of leprosy (Hansen's disease [HD]) a decade after significant operational changes in the National Leprosy Elimination Program (NLEP) were enacted by shortening the duration of multi‐drug treatment for multibacillary cases of HD to 12 months and stopping post‐treatment follow‐up.

Methods

The percentages represented by newly diagnosed cases of HD among all new patients attending the dermatology outpatient department (OPD) from April 2008 to March 2011 were calculated from hospital records. Patient age and sex, and type of disease were noted in each case, and annual data were compared. The OPD data were also matched with population data for the catchment area of the hospital (i.e. the South 24‐Parganas district).

Results

There was a slight annual decline in the percentage of new cases represented by HD, but this was not statistically significant. This trend broadly corroborated changes in the annual new case detection rate in the catchment area of the hospital. In addition, the percentage of HD cases represented by paucibacillary disease was significantly higher than that represented by multibacillary HD (P = 0.0072).

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of this type to be conducted in eastern India. The present data indicate that significant transmission of HD is ongoing in the community.
Nursing students' expectations regarding effective clinical education: A qualitative study
Authors: Esmaeili Maryam , Cheraghi Mohammad Ali , Salsali Mahvash , Ghiyasvandian Shahrzad
Published: August 2013

This study aimed to describe the expectations of Bachelor of Science nursing students regarding what constitutes an effective clinical education. In this study, a semistructured interview process was utilized with 17 nursing students studying in sophomore, junior and senior years in training units of hospitals affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Content analysis was employed to analyse the data. Data analysis led to identification of three main themes: (i) appropriate communication and interaction between instructors and students; (ii) incorporation of both theory and practice in clinical education, with two subthemes, one being the presence of the instructor as a factor for reducing the gap between theory and practice and the other being evaluation based on appropriate criteria; and (iii) having specialized instructors, with a specific emphasis on the instructor's knowledge and motivation as important factors in learning. The findings reveal the significant role of mentors in providing effective educational and clinical experiences. Therefore, mentors must strive to develop their knowledge and clinical behaviours according to students' needs in clinical settings.