bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ubiquitous Wireless ECG Recording: A Powerful Tool Physicians Should Embrace
Authors: SAXON LESLIE A.
Published: January 2013

Ubiquitous Wireless ECG Recording. The use of smart phones has increased dramatically and there are nearly a billion users on 3G and 4G networks worldwide. Nearly 60% of the U.S. population uses smart phones to access the internet, and smart phone sales now surpass those of desktop and laptop computers. The speed of wireless communication technology on 3G and 4G networks and the widespread adoption and use of iOS equipped smart phones (Apple Inc., Cupertino, CA, USA) provide infrastructure for the transmission of wireless biomedical data, including ECG data. These technologies provide an unprecedented opportunity for physicians to continually access data that can be used to detect issues before symptoms occur or to have definitive data when symptoms are present. The technology also greatly empowers and enables the possibility for unprecedented patient participation in their own medical education and health status as well as that of their social network. As patient advocates, physicians and particularly cardiac electrophysiologists should embrace the future and promise of wireless ECG recording, a technology solution that can truly scale across the global population. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 24, pp. 480‐483, April 2013)
Ultrastructure and Molecular Phylogenetic Position of Heteronema scaphurum: A Eukaryovorous Euglenid with a Cytoproct
Authors: Breglia Susana A. , Yubuki Naoji , Leander Brian S.
Published: January 2013

Euglenids comprise a distinct clade of flagellates with diverse modes of nutrition, including phagotrophy, osmotrophy and phototrophy. Much of the previous research on euglenids has focused on phototrophic species because of their ecological abundance and significance as indicators for the health of aquatic ecosystems. Although largely understudied, phagotrophic species probably represent the majority of euglenid diversity. Phagotrophic euglenids tend to be either bacterivorous or eukaryovorous and use an elaborate feeding apparatus for capturing prey cells. We characterized the ultrastructure and molecular phylogenetic position of Heteronema scaphurum, a eukaryovorous euglenid collected in freshwater. This species was equipped with a distinct cytoproct through which waste products were eliminated in the form of faecal pellets; a cytoproct has not been reported in any other member of the Euglenida. Heteronema scaphurum also had a novel predatory mode of feeding. The euglenid ensnared and corralled several green algal prey cells (i.e. Chlamydomonas) with hook‐like flagella covered in mucous before engulfing the bundle of prey cells whole. Molecular phylogenetic analyses inferred from small subunit rDNA sequences placed this species with other eukaryovorous euglenids, which was consistent with ultrastructural features associated with the feeding apparatus, flagellar apparatus, extrusomes, and pellicle.
The Multilayered Interlaced Network (MIN) in the sporoplasm of the Microsporidium Anncaliia algerae is derived from Golgi
Authors: Takvorian Peter M. , Buttle Karolyn F. , Mankus David , Mannella Carmen A. , Weiss Louis M. , Cali Ann
Published: January 2013

This study provides evidence for the Golgi‐like activity of the multilayered interlaced network (MIN) and new ultrastructural observations of the MIN in the sporoplasm of Anncaliia algerae, a microsporidium that infects both insects and humans. The MIN is attached to the end of the polar tubule upon extrusion from the germinating spore. It surrounds the sporoplasm, immediately below its plasma membrane, and most likely maintains the integrity of the sporoplasm, as it is pulled through the everting polar tube. Furthermore, the MIN appears to deposit its dense contents on the surface of the sporoplasm within minutes of spore discharge thickening the plasma membrane. This thickening is characteristic of the developmental stages of the genus Anncaliia. The current study utilizes transmission electron microscopy (TEM), enzyme histochemistry, and high voltage TEM (HVEM) with 3D tomographic reconstruction to both visualize the structure of the MIN and demonstrate that the MIN is a Golgi‐related structure. The presence of developmentally regulated Golgi in the Microsporidia has been previously documented. The current study extends our understanding of the microsporidial Golgi and is consistent with the MIN being involved in the extracellular secretion in Anncaliia algerae. This report further illustrates the unique morphology of the MIN as illustrated by HVEM using 3D tomography.
Mortality related to pancreas disease in Norwegian farmed salmonid fish, Salmo salar L. and Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum)
Authors: Stormoen M , Kristoffersen A B , Jansen P A
Published: January 2013

High mortality during the salmonid seawater phase is a continuous problem for the salmonid aquaculture industry, although the mortality levels show a large variation both in farms with a disease history and those without. We wanted to examine the mortality patterns in farms with pancreas disease (PD) and compare it to farms without this diagnosis. Further, we wished to investigate the factors influencing the maximum mortality in both groups. We examined data from all salmonid farms in Norway stocked after January 2003 and slaughtered before December 2007. In total, 1884 cohorts were included, and 150 of these were diagnosed with PD. We found that season accounted for more of the variation in mortality than water temperature in PD‐positive cohorts and that infection pressure influenced the mortality in non‐PD cohorts, suggesting outbreaks of disease that are not diagnosed. We also found that the mortality in PD cohorts decreased significantly from 2003 to 2007, suggesting that increased knowledge about PD and targeted actions have been effective. Our study further suggests that crude mortality figures may be of limited use when wanting to examine a particular disease and risk factors for increased mortality. We suggest farmers and legislation should turn to a more modern approach with cause‐specific mortality records.
Combinatorial effects of administration of immunostimulatory compounds in feed and follow‐up administration of triple‐dose SLICE® (emamectin benzoate) on Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., infection with Lepeophtheirus salmonis
Authors: Poley J , Purcell S L , Igboeli O O , Donkin A , Wotton H , Fast M D
Published: January 2013

Several immunostimulatory feed additives have shown the ability to induce protective responses in Atlantic salmon to infection with Lepeophtheirus salmonis. However, even the most encouraging results rarely surpass a 50% protective index in the host. That fact coupled with the well‐documented limitations of single‐therapy strategies in the effective management of parasitic infections generally make it imperative to identify therapies that can be combined in an integrated pest management approach for sea lice. With this in mind, we hypothesized that immunostimulatory feeds could enhance the protection provided by SLICE® emamectin benzoate (EMB). To test this hypothesis, Atlantic salmon were fed one of two different immunostimulatory feeds (CpG ODN or Aquate®) for c. 7 weeks, challenged with L. salmonis copepodids early within that immunostimulatory feed period and then placed on a triple‐dose (150 μg kg−1) feed of SLICE® for 1 week following the completion of the immunostimulatory feeding period. CpG ODN (2 mg kg−1) and the commercial yeast extract (Aquate® 0.2%) inclusion in feeds were able to successfully induce inflammatory gene expression (interleukin‐1β) in the head kidneys of infected fish at 13 and 26 days post‐exposure (DPE), and 13 DPE, respectively. Lice burdens were lower on fish fed CpG ODN (18%) or Aquate® (19%) diets; however, due to variability, these were not statistically significant over time. Despite no statistically significant reductions in lice numbers, by 33 DPE fish on immunostimulatory feeds had significantly reduced cortisol levels when compared to infected fish on control diet. Cortisol levels in fish receiving an immunostimulatory diet were no different from initial baseline levels prior to infection, whereas the levels in control diet fish were significantly elevated from all other time points. Despite the positive effects on infection of fish fed immunostimulatory feeds, no synergism was observed with follow‐up treatment with SLICE®. In fact, highest survival of lice was observed in fish with prior immunostimulation.
Factors regulating viable cell density in the intervertebral disc: blood supply in relation to disc height
Authors: Boubriak Olga. A. , Watson Natasha , Sivan Sarit. S. , Stubbens Naomi , Urban Jill P. G.
Published: January 2013

The intervertebral disc is an avascular tissue, maintained by a small population of cells that obtain nutrients mainly by diffusion from capillaries at the disc–vertebral body interface. Loss of this nutrient supply is thought to lead to disc degeneration, but how nutrient supply influences viable cell density is unclear. We investigated two factors that influence nutrient delivery to disc cells and hence cell viability: disc height and blood supply. We used bovine caudal discs as our model as these show a gradation in disc height. We found that although disc height varied twofold from the largest to the smallest disc studied, it had no significant effect on cell density, unlike the situation found in articular cartilage. The density of blood vessels supplying the discs was markedly greater for the largest disc than the smallest disc, as was the density of pores allowing capillary penetration through the bony endplate. Results indicate that changes in blood vessels in the vertebral bodies supplying the disc, as well as changes in endplate architecture appear to influence density of cells in intervertebral discs.
Do Family Firms Have Better Reputations Than Non‐Family Firms? An Integration of Socioemotional Wealth and Social Identity Theories
Authors: Deephouse David L. , Jaskiewicz Peter
Published: January 2013

We draw from socioemotional wealth and social identity research to develop a theory on reputational differences among family and non‐family firms. We propose that family members identify more strongly with their family firm than non‐family members do with either a family or non‐family firm. Heightened identification motivates family members to pursue a favourable reputation because it allows them to feel good about themselves, thus contributing to their socioemotional wealth. We hypothesize that when the family's name is part of the firm's name, the firm's reputation is higher because family members are particularly motivated for their firm to have a better reputation. Family members also need organizational power to pursue a favourable reputation; thus, we hypothesize that the level of family ownership and family board presence should be associated with more favourable reputations. We find support for our theory in a sample of large firms from eight countries with disparate governance systems and cultures.
Collecting Samples from the Shelf: Does This Contribute to Shelf‐Life Knowledge?
Authors: Hough Guillermo , Subramaniam Persis , Narain Chanchal , Beeren Cindy
Published: January 2013

Samples with different storage times were collected from supermarket shelves for three products: a strawberry fruit drink (SFD), digestive biscuits and shortbread. Sensory descriptive analysis and chemical measurements were performed on the samples. Consumers measured sensory acceptability and answered an accept/reject question for each sample. These last data were used to estimate the sensory shelf life of the SFD applying survival analysis methodology. For the digestive biscuits and shortbread, this estimation was not possible because of the low rejection probability and that acceptability differences between samples did not follow the expected trend in relation to dates. Partial least squares regressions showed the relationships between acceptability (Y‐matrix) and trained panel descriptive analysis + chemical measurements (X‐matrix). Collecting samples from the shelf could be a means of obtaining cut‐off points for shelf‐life estimations. However, in two of the three examples presented, confidence intervals were wide. This was due to the relatively low number of experimental points in the regression and/or the batch variability inherent in the sample collection method. Overall, collecting samples from the shelf contributed limited information to shelf‐life knowledge.

Practical Applications

If samples with different storage times could be collected from the company's deposits and/or from supermarket shelves, this would mean an important saving in resources, especially as this would mean not having to wait for the different storage times to elapse. The title of this article proposed answering the question of whether collecting samples from the shelf contributes to shelf‐life knowledge. The answer is that it does, although with limitations. Depending on the product, it can provide sensory shelf‐life estimations or establish if current “best‐before” dates are adequate. Correlations between acceptability and objective sensory or instrumental data can help in understanding modes of deterioration.
Comparative evaluation of autologous platelet‐rich fibrin and platelet‐rich plasma in the treatment of mandibular degree II furcation defects: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Bajaj Pavan , Pradeep A. R. , Agarwal Esha , Rao Nishanth S. , Naik Savitha B. , Priyanka N. , Kalra Nitish
Published: January 2013

Background

The treatment of molar furcation defects remains a considerable challenge in clinical practice. The identification of clinical measurements influential to treatment outcomes is critical to optimize the results of surgical periodontal therapy. The present study aimed to explore the clinical and radiographical effectiveness of autologous platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) and autologous platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) in the treatment of mandibular degree II furcation defects in subjects with chronic periodontitis.

Material and Methods

Seventy‐two mandibular degree II furcation defects were treated with either autologous PRF with open flap debridement (OFD; 24 defects) or autologous PRP with OFD (25), or OFD alone (23). Clinical and radiological parameters such as probing depth, relative vertical clinical attachment level and horizontal clinical attachment level along with gingival marginal level were recorded at baseline and 9 mo postoperatively.

Results

All clinical and radiographic parameters showed statistically significant improvement at both the test sites (PRF with OFD and PRP with OFD) compared to those with OFD alone. Relative vertical clinical attachment level gain was also greater in PRF (2.87 ± 0.85 mm) and PRP (2.71 ± 1.04 mm) sites as compared to control site (1.37 ± 0.58 mm), and relative horizontal clinical attachment level gain was statistically significantly greater in both PRF and PRP than in the control group.

Conclusions

The use of autologous PRF or PRP were both effective in the treatment of furcation defects with uneventful healing of sites.
HLA‐DRB and HLA‐DQA/HLA‐DQB allele and haplotype frequencies in Iranian patients with aggressive periodontitis
Authors: Mousavi Jazi M. , Solgi G. , Asl Roosta H. , Noshad S. , Moslemi N. , Sadrimanesh R. , Moradi B. , A. Amirzargar A.
Published: January 2013

Background and Objective

Genetic backgrounds play a key role in susceptibility to and protection against a spectrum of periodontal diseases. Like other infectious diseases, the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) have been found to be associated with periodontitis. This study aimed to investigate differences in allele and haplotype frequencies of HLA class II antigens in a sample of Iranian patients with aggressive periodontitis compared with a healthy control group.

Material and Methods

Fifty unrelated patients with aggressive periodontitis and 130 healthy volunteers were enrolled in this study. HLA genotyping for HLA‐DRB, HLA‐DQA1 and HLA‐DQB1 was performed using the PCR with sequence‐specific primers. Allele and haplotype frequencies were compared across groups.

Results

The frequencies of HLA‐DQA1*03:01, HLA‐DQB1*03:02 and HLA‐DQB1*03:05 alleles, as well as that of the HLA‐DRB1*04:01 allele, were significantly higher in patients with aggressive periodontitis compared with control subjects (p = 0.01, p = 0.04, p = 0.05 and p = 0.04, respectively). In contrast, the frequency of the HLA‐DQB1*0603 allele was significantly lower in patients with aggressive periodontitis compared with control subjects (p = 0.006; odds ratio = 0.20). With regard to haplotype association, a significantly higher frequency of two haplotypes – HLA‐DRB1*04:01/HLA‐DQA1*03:01/HLA‐DQB1*03:02 and HLA‐DRB1*16:01/HLA‐DQA1*01:03/HLA‐DQB1*05:01 – was observed in patients with aggressive periodontitis compared with healthy controls (p = 0.01, odds ratio = 2.56 and p = 0.05, odds ratio = 5.38, respectively).

Conclusion

These results provide additional evidence that class II HLA polymorphisms, particularly in the DQ locus, are associated with protection against and susceptibility to aggressive periodontitis.
Expert System to Control Construction Problems in Flexible Pavements
Authors: Mosa Ahmed Mancy , Rahmat Riza Atiq O. K. , Ismail Amiruddin , Taha Mohd Raihan
Published: January 2013

Abstract:  Highway engineers face complicated problems that are influenced by various conditions during the construction of flexible highway pavements. Identifying such problems and recommending effective solutions demand considerable engineering expertise, which is difficult to obtain at all construction sites. Thus, the development of an expert system can effectively help engineers control and analyze such problems. In addition, an expert system can effectively archive the storage and distribution of expertise among pavement engineers. This article describes the development and evaluation of such an expert system. The first stage in the development of the proposed system was the elicitation of knowledge from written sources and from experts through literature reviews and interviews, respectively. The acquired knowledge was analyzed and classified and then represented in a form containing rules; the rules were subsequently coded as software. This article describes the development and evaluation of the Expert System for the Control of Construction Problems in Flexible Highway Pavements.
Pharmacoeconomic assessment of therapy for invasive aspergillosis
Authors: Luong Me‐Linh , Husain Shahid , Rotstein Coleman
Published: January 2013

Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised hosts. Economic expenditures prompted by this invasive fungal infection (IFI) are significant. Although, the duration and associated costs of hospitalization comprise the largest proportion of costs in large surveillance studies, the newer oral antifungal agents may impact significantly on these costs. A review of the pharmacoeconomic (PE) studies is provided focussing on primary therapy, salvage therapy, empiric therapy and prophylaxis for IA. PE evaluations have demonstrated the cost effectiveness and dominance of voriconazole for targeted primary treatment of IA compared with other available agents. Differences in the drug choice and analytic methodology of the PE analyses of empiric antifungal strategy hamper definitive conclusions about the agents employed as empiric antifungal that may be directed at suspected IA although both caspofungin and voriconazole appear to be cost effective and dominant over liposomal amphotericin B (LAmB), whereas LAmB is more costly than conventional amphotericin B. Posaconazole is the most cost‐effective agent for antifungal prophylaxis against IFI and IA.
Long‐term stem CO2 concentration measurements in Norway spruce in relation to biotic and abiotic factors
Authors: Etzold Sophia , Zweifel Roman , Ruehr Nadine K. , Eugster Werner , Buchmann Nina
Published: January 2013

Stem CO2 concentrations (stem [CO2]) undergo large temporal variations that need to be understood to better link tree physiological processes to biosphere–atmosphere CO2 exchange.

During 19 months, stem [CO2] was continuously measured in mature subalpine Norway spruce trees (Picea abies) and jointly analysed with stem, soil and air temperatures, sap flow rates, stem radius changes and CO2 efflux rates from stem and soil on different time scales.

Stem [CO2] exhibited a strong seasonality, of which over 80% could be explained with stem and soil temperatures. Both physical equilibrium processes of CO2 between water and air according to Henry's law as well as physiological effects, including sap flow and local respiration, concurrently contributed to these temporal variations.

Moreover, the explanatory power of potential biological drivers (stem radius changes, sap flow and soil respiration) varied strongly with season and temporal resolution. We conclude that seasonal and daily courses of stem [CO2] in spruce trees are a combined effect of physical equilibrium and tree physiological processes. Furthermore, we emphasize the relevance of axial diffusion of CO2 along air‐filled spaces in the wood, and potential wound response processes owing to sensor installation.
Human adipose dynamics and metabolic health
Authors: Feng Bin , Zhang Tracy , Xu Haiyan
Published: January 2013

The two types of adipose tissue in humans, white and brown, have distinct developmental origins and functions. Human white adipose tissue plays a pivotal role in maintaining whole‐body energy homeostasis by storing triglycerides when energy is in surplus, releasing free fatty acids as a fuel during energy shortage, and secreting adipokines that are important for regulating lipid and glucose metabolism. The size of white adipose mass needs to be kept at a proper set point. Dramatic expansion of white fat mass causes obesity—now become a global epidemic disease—and increases the risk for the development of many life‐threatening diseases. The absence of white adipose tissue or abnormal white adipose tissue redistribution leads to lipodystrophy, a condition often associated with metabolic disorders. Brown adipose tissue is a thermogenic organ whose mass is inversely correlated with body mass index and age. Therapeutic approaches targeting adipose tissue have been proven to be effective in improving obesity‐related metabolic disorders, and promising new therapies could be developed in the near future.
Attenuation of auditory ERPs to action‐sound coincidences is not explained by voluntary allocation of attention
Authors: Horváth János
Published: January 2013

The event‐related potential (ERP) correlates of sound detection are attenuated when eliciting sounds coincide with our own actions. The role of attention in this effect was investigated in two experiments by presenting tones separated by random intervals. In the homogeneous condition of Experiments 1 and 2, the same tone was repeated, whereas in the mixed condition of Experiment 1, tones with five different frequencies were presented. Participants performed a time‐interval production task by marking intervals with keypresses in Experiment 1, and tried to produce keypress‐tone coincidences in Experiment 2. Although the auditory ERPs were attenuated for coincidences, no modulation by the multiplicity of tone frequencies in Experiment 1, or by the task‐relevancy of tones and coincidences in Experiment 2, was found. This suggests that coincidence‐related ERP attenuation cannot be fully explained by voluntary attentional mechanisms.
Attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder reduces automatic attention in young adults
Authors: Sable Jeffrey J. , Knopf Kristin L. , Kyle Marie R. , Schully Lauren T , Brooks Megan M. , Parry Kelly H. , Thompson Ivy A. , Suna Elise B. , Stowe Rachel , Flink Laura A. , Diamond Rebecca E.
Published: January 2013

Previous ERP studies have provided mixed information about ADHD, especially in adults and when conscious attention to stimuli is not required. We used the auditory N1 to assess automatic attention in adults with and without ADHD. While participants watched a silent video, trains of 5 tones (400‐ms onset‐to‐onset time) were presented with intertrain intervals (ITIs) of 1 or 5 s. The P1, N1, P2, and N2 were analyzed. Compared to controls, participants with ADHD had relatively little N1 attenuation after the 5‐s ITI, which was driven by uniformly small N1s to all tones. However, after the 1‐s ITI, the ADHD group had relatively large N2s to all 5 tones in the train. The reduced N1 in adults with ADHD indicated reduced automatic attention to salient sound stimuli, which may be due to reduced function of brain‐stem arousal mechanisms. However, the increased N2 in these participants suggests they had developed certain compensatory mechanisms.
Multiple object individuation during numerical Stroop
Authors: Pagano Silvia , Mazza Veronica
Published: January 2013

To investigate whether semantic information relative to numbers is retained during multiple object individuation, we recorded N2pc—a neural measure of selection/individuation—during a numerical version of the Stroop task. Participants enumerated a varying number of target digits (1 to 4) whose identity was either congruent or incongruent with their numerosity. N2pc amplitudes increased as a function of target numerosity but were little affected by congruency, suggesting that multiple object individuation is a prenumeric stage that does not encode for the number magnitude of the numerosity of the individuated objects.
Microbial dynamics and natural remediation patterns of Fusarium‐infested watermelon soil under 3‐yr of continuous fallow condition
Authors: Wu H.‐S. , Gao Z.‐Q. , Zhou X.‐D. , Shi X. , Wang M.‐Y. , Shang X.‐X. , Liu Y.‐D. , Gu D.‐L. , Wang W.‐Z.
Published: January 2013

Long‐term monoculture of watermelon results in inhibited growth and decreased crop yields, possibly because of imbalance in microbial ecology caused by accumulation of the pathogen in soil. This results in serious problems in the economics of watermelon production. We investigated the build‐up of Fusarium in soil under watermelon cultivation and changes over 3 yr of fallow in a microcosm. We focused on changes in the microbial community of Fusarium‐infected soil, including the diversity of the microfloral species composition, and species abundance. Long‐term monoculture of watermelon leads to changes in microbial diversity and community structure. The microbes most readily cultured from infested soil were suppressed by watermelon wilt pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. niveum (FON). Of 52 isolated and identified culturable microbes, 83.3% of bacteria, 85.7% of actinomycetes, 31.6% of fungi and 20.0% of Fusarium sp. were inhibited by FON on bioassay plates. Prior to fallowing, infested soil was a transformed ‘fungus‐type’ soil. After 3 yr of fallow, the infested soil had remediated naturally, and soil microbial diversity recovered considerably. Abundance of dominant bacterial populations was increased by 118–177%, actinomycetes, fungi and FON were decreased by 23–32, 33–37 and 50%, respectively. The ratio of bacteria: actnomycetes: fungus: Fusarium sp. in infested soil changed from 24 000:100:4:1 prior to fallow to 57 000:100:3.5:1 after fallowing, nearer to the 560 000:400:8:1 ratio of healthy soil not used for watermelon cultivation. This suggests the ‘fungus‐type’ soil was converting to ‘bacteria‐type’ soil and that disrupted microbial communities in infested soil were restored during fallow.
Alterations in the hemostatic profiles of dogs with naturally occurring septic peritonitis
Authors: Bentley Adrienne M. , Mayhew Philipp D. , Culp William T. N. , Otto Cynthia M.
Published: January 2013

Objective

To characterize derangements in the hemostatic profiles of dogs with naturally occurring septic peritonitis and determine if such derangements were predictive of survival.

Design

Prospective, observational single cohort study.

Setting

University veterinary teaching hospital.

Animals

A total of 27 client‐owned dogs with naturally occurring septic peritonitis.

Interventions

Standard treatment included fluid resuscitation, antimicrobial therapy, supportive care, and surgery provided at the discretion of the primary clinician. Blood was collected preoperatively and on days 1 and 3 postoperatively for platelet count, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time,D‐dimer and fibrinogen concentrations, total proteinC(PC) and antithrombin (AT) activities, and thromboelastography.

Measurements and Main Results

Sixteen of 27 (59%) dogs survived. PreoperativePCdeficiency was identified in 10 of 11 (91%) nonsurvivors and 2 of 15 (13%) survivors. PreoperativeATdeficiency was identified in 10 of 11 (91%) nonsurvivors and 14 of 15 (93%) survivors. Compared to survivors, nonsurvivors had lower mean preoperativePC(98 ± 24% versus 49 ± 26%;P< 0.001) andAT(53 ± 9% versus 32 ± 16%;P< 0.001) activities. Anticoagulant activities decreased on day 1 postoperatively. As a predictor of survival, preoperativePCactivity of more than 60% achieved a sensitivity of 93% and specificity of 82%. PreoperativeATactivity of more than 41.5% achieved a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 82%. The maximum amplitude, α angle, and coagulation index from preoperative thromboelastograms of survivors were significantly greater (more hypercoagulable) than nonsurvivors (P< 0.01), with the maximum amplitude being the most specific predictor of survival (100%).

Conclusions

Deficiencies ofPCandATand hypercoagulability appear to be consistent features of naturally occurring canine sepsis and may be useful prognostic indicators in canine septic peritonitis.
Iatrogenic water intoxication in two cats
Authors: Lee Joyce Y. , Rozanski Elizabeth , Anastasio Maryanne , Parker Valerie J. , deLaforcade Armelle , Anastasio John
Published: January 2013

Objective

To describe 2 cats that developed acute iatrogenic water intoxication, one associated with a continuous infusion of water provided via an esophagostomy tube and one following SC administration of 5% dextrose in water (D5W).

Case or Series Summary

A 10‐year‐old cat with squamous cell carcinoma was hospitalized for treatment of dehydration. Rehydration was provided with water via an esophagostomy tube at 5.7 mL/kg/h. After 30 hours of therapy, the cat was found dull and weak. Serum sodium was markedly decreased at 116 mmol/L (116 mEq/L). Supplemental water was stopped, and IV furosemide and mannitol were provided to eliminate free water. Hypertonic saline (1.5%) was admininstered IV to rapidly restore the sodium concentration. The serum sodium concentration corrected over 17 hours, and the cat was discharged without neurological complications. The second cat had previously received 300 mL D5W subcutaneously and represented 8 hours later with lethargy and paresis with a serum sodium level of 126 mmol/L (126 mEq/L). Intravenous fluid therapy was provided using 0.9% NaCl. Over the following day, the cat's mentation and paresis resolved and sodium concentrations normalized.

New or Unique Information Provided

These 2 cases describe a presumed uncommon iatrogenic complication of severe hyponatremia due to water provided either via an esophagostomy tube or subcutaneously. While oral rehydration is often considered ideal, it may result in signs of water intoxication if not carefully monitored; additionally, D5W is never considered an acceptable fluid choice as a SC bolus. If promptly recognized, acute hyponatremia may be corrected rapidly with no lasting consequences.
A comparative study on stable isotopic composition in waters of the glacial and nonglacial rivers in Mount Gongga, China
Authors: Meng Yuchuan , Liu Guodong , Zhang Lantian
Published: January 2013

Hailuogou (HLG) River and Huangbengliu (HBL) Gulley are typical alpine glacial and nonglacial rivers in Mount Gongga China, respectively. To differentiate distinct hydrologic regimes of the two rivers, δ18O and δ2H were measured on 196 water samples collected almost monthly from May 2008 to December 2009. The results indicate that: (i) the measured isotopic data show that stream water is overall isotopically more enriched in 2H and 18O than ice‐snow meltwater but more depleted than precipitation and ground water; (ii) these data also suggest that stream flow is generally more dominated by ice‐snow meltwater in HLG River than in HBL Gulley; (iii) δ2H/δ18O relationship suggests that isotopic composition of precipitation is well preserved in stream flow, and evaporation is only minor in both HBL Gulley and HLG River; (iv) this study highlights that ice‐snow meltwater is a substantially important water source in alpine regions on south‐eastern edge of Tibetan Plateau.
Validation of a portable bioelectrical impedance analyzer for the assessment of body composition
Authors: Karelis Antony D. , Chamberland Gabriel , Aubertin-Leheudre Mylène , Duval Christian ,   Ecological mobility in Aging and Parkinson (EMAP) group
Published: January 2013

One of the major challenges in field research has been the difficulty to adequately measure body composition, such as % body fat and fat-free mass (FFM). Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the convergent validity of the portable bioelectrical impedance body composition analyzer, the Inbody 230, with dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) (General Electric Lunar Prodigy). The study population consisted of 145 men and women (age, 44.6 ± 20 years; BMI, 24.5 ± 3.8 kg·m–2). We measured body composition (fat mass, % body fat, total FFM, trunk FFM, and appendicular FFM) using DXA and the Inbody 230. Results show strong significant correlations between both methods for fat mass, % body fat, total FFM, and trunk FFM (r = 0.94–0.99). Furthermore, we showed a modest significant correlation between both methods for appendicular FFM (r = 0.63). Finally, as shown by Bland–Altman analysis, no significant biases were observed between Inbody 230 and DXA for fat mass, % body fat, and total FFM. However, trunk and appendicular FFM were shown to have significant biases between the Inbody 230 and DXA. In conclusion, the present study indicated that the portable Inbody 230 may be an acceptable device to measure fat mass, % body fat, and total FFM (except for women) in healthy adults. In addition, there appears to be a systematic bias for the estimation of trunk and appendicular FFM with the Inbody 230 in men and women.
Effects of geometries on three-dimensional slope stability
Authors: Zhang Yingbin , Chen Guangqi , Zheng Lu , Li Yange , Zhuang Xiaoying
Published: January 2013

This paper analyzes the effects of complex geometries on three-dimensional (3D) slope stability using an elastoplastic finite difference method (FDM) with a strength reduction technique. A series of special 3D slopes with various geometric configurations, including curving slope surface, turning corners, turning arcs, and turning forms, is presented in terms of factor of safety, shear slip surface, and deformed mesh. More than 180 cases with various geometries for different slope gradient (90°, 45°, and 26.57°) under different boundary conditions (smooth–smooth, rough–smooth, and rough–rough) are calculated and discussed in detail. Many interesting results are obtained and some of them appear to be surprising. These results can be used directly to offer suggestions for landslide hazard preparedness or safe and economical design of infrastructures, e.g., excavations, embankments, and so on.
Temporal changes in stem decay and dead and sound wood volumes in the northeastern Canadian boreal forest
Authors: Barrette Julie , Pothier David , Ward Charles
Published: January 2013

Yield tables used for stand-level predictions of standing volume typically do not account for the presence of dead trees and stem decay. Yet, recently dead trees, referred to as dead and sound wood (DSW), could be considered as a valuable supplemental wood source. Conversely, stem decay can cause important losses during product recovery. Accordingly, the general objective of this study was to characterize the patterns of change of stem decay and of DSW as functions of time since the last fire (TSF). The amount of stem decay and of DSW per tree species were measured in two chronosequences of 30 stands each, covering more than 1000 years in the northeastern Canadian boreal forest. Stand-level decay volume increased during the first 150 years following fire and then stabilized. This volume was mainly composed of black spruce (Picea mariana (Mill.) BSP) when TSF <200 years and of balsam fir (Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.) when TSF >200 years. Conversely, the volume of DSW declined rapidly after fire and increased gradually from about 200 years TSF. Hence, the loss of wood volume attributable to stem decay in old-growth stands was cancelled out by the increased availability of DSW, with a slightly positive balance of 3.5 m3/ha. This could be significant considering the large amount of old-growth stands in this part of the boreal forest.
Decennial growth and mortality following uniform partial cutting in yellow birch – conifer stands
Authors: Prévost Marcel , Dumais Daniel
Published: January 2013

Estimating residual tree survival and growth is crucial for evaluating the overall merit of partial harvesting. In this case study, we present the effects of different cutting intensities (0%, 40%, 50%, and 60% of merchantable (diameter at breast height ≥ 9.1 cm) basal area (BA)) on the response of residual trees in two mixed yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis Britt.) – conifer stands in eastern Quebec, Canada. Primarily aimed at promoting regeneration establishment, the experiment was conducted in two sites 90 km apart (Armagh and Duchesnay), each one containing four replicates of treatments in a randomized block design. Mortality after cutting decreased with increasing BA removal, but losses were two to three times higher at Armagh (62–138 stems/ha) than at Duchesnay (22–88 stems/ha). Loss of conifer stems involved primarily balsam fir (Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.) under natural conditions (control), whereas fir and red spruce (Picea rubens Sarg.) were equally affected in partial cuts. Red maple (Acer rubrum L.) and paper birch (Betula papyrifera Marsh.) were lost regardless of treatment. As a whole, growth in merchantable BA increased with cutting intensity. Uniform partial cuts produced good BA growth response from conifers at Armagh (0.27–0.28 m2·ha−1·year−1) and from hardwoods at Duchesnay (0.16–0.25 m2·ha−1·year−1), whereas BA growth was negligible for both species groups in the control. We examine the role of species composition and stand structure before cutting in the response of residual trees.
EFFICIENCY AND SUPER-EFFICIENCY OF COMMERCIAL BANKS IN VIETNAM: PERFORMANCES AND DETERMINANTS
Authors: MINH NGUYEN KHAC , LONG GIANG THANH , HUNG NGUYEN VIET
Published: January 2013

This paper estimates and compares efficiency performance of 32 commercial banks in Vietnam during 2001–2005, as well as identifies possible factors determining such efficiency performance. Efficiency is measured by a data envelopment analysis (DEA) model and super-efficiency measure through a slacks-based model (SBM) under the assumption of variable returns to scale (VRS). We find that there were a small number of efficient banks, and there would be room for these banks to improve their production efficiency. Moreover, in comparison with small banks, large banks do not guarantee high super efficiency scores. The results from a Tobit regression model provide such interesting findings as negative impact of state ownership, positive influence of bank size and market share, but no impact of labor quality.
LINE DISCONTINUITIES, LOCAL ACTION WITH BOTH THE FIELD AND ITS DUAL, AND SPIN FROM NO SPIN IN TWO-DIMENSIONAL SCALAR THEORY
Authors: CHATTERJEE CHANDRASEKHAR , HARIKUMAR E. , MATHUR MANU , MITRA INDRAJIT , SHARATCHANDRA H. S.
Published: January 2013

We consider a local action with both the real scalar field and its dual in two Euclidean dimensions. The role of singular line discontinuities is emphasized. Exotic properties of the correlation of the field with its dual, the generation of spin from scalar fields, and quantization of dual charges are pointed out. Wick's theorem and rotation properties of fermions are recovered for half-integer quantization.
GRADUATED ASSIGNMENT ALGORITHM FOR MULTIPLE GRAPH MATCHING BASED ON A COMMON LABELING
Authors: SOLÉ-RIBALTA ALBERT , SERRATOSA FRANCESC
Published: January 2013

In pattern recognition applications, with the aim of increasing efficiency, it is useful to represent the elements by attributed graphs (which consider their structural properties). Under this structural representation of the elements some graph matching problems need a common labeling between the vertices of a set of graphs. Computing this common labeling is a NP-Complete problem. Nevertheless, some methodologies have been presented which obtain a sub-optimal solution in polynomial time. The drawback of these methods is that they rely on pairwise labeling computations, causing the methodologies not to consider the global information during the entire process. To solve this problem, we present a methodology which generates the common labeling by matching all graph nodes to a virtual node set. The method has been tested using three independent datasets, one synthetic and two real. Experimental results show that the presented method obtains better performance than the most popular common labeling algorithm with the same computational cost.
Biology and Management of Asian Citrus Psyllid, Vector of the Huanglongbing Pathogens
Authors: Grafton-Cardwell Elizabeth E. , Stelinski Lukasz L. , Stansly Philip A.
Published: January 2013

The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Psyllidae), is the most important pest of citrus worldwide because it serves as a vector of “Candidatus Liberibacter” species (Alphaproteobacteria) that cause huanglongbing (citrus greening disease). All commercially cultivated citrus is susceptible and varieties tolerant to disease expression are not yet available. Onset of disease occurs following a long latent period after inoculation, and thus the pathogen can spread widely prior to detection. Detection of the pathogen in Brazil in 2004 and Florida in 2005 catalyzed a significant increase in research on D. citri biology. Chemical control is the primary management strategy currently employed, but recently documented decreases in susceptibility of D. citri to several insecticides illustrate the need for more sustainable tools. Herein, we discuss recent advances in the understanding of D. citri biology and behavior, pathogen transmission biology, biological control, and chemical control with respect to “Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus.” Our goal is to point toward integrated and biologically relevant management of this pathosystem.
Biology of Phlebotomine Sand Flies as Vectors of Disease Agents
Authors: Ready Paul D.
Published: January 2013

Phlebotomines are the sole or principal vectors of Leishmania, Bartonella bacilliformis, and some arboviruses. The coevolution of sand flies with Leishmania species of mammals and lizards is considered in relation to the landscape epidemiology of leishmaniasis, a neglected tropical disease. Evolutionary hypotheses are unresolved, so a practical phlebotomine classification is proposed to aid biomedical information retrieval. The vectors of Leishmania are tabulated and new criteria for their incrimination are given. Research on fly-parasite-host interactions, fly saliva, and behavioral ecology is reviewed in relation to parasite manipulation of blood feeding, vaccine targets, and pheromones for lures. Much basic research is based on few transmission cycles, so generalizations should be made with caution. Integrated research and control programs have begun, but improved control of leishmaniasis and nuisance-biting requires greater emphasis on population genetics and transmission modeling. Most leishmaniasis transmission is zoonotic, affecting the poor and tourists in rural and natural areas, and therefore control should be compatible with environmental conservation.
Conservation and Variation inHoxGenes: How Insect Models Pioneered the Evo-Devo Field
Authors: Heffer Alison , Pick Leslie
Published: January 2013

Evolutionary developmental biology, or evo-devo, broadly investigates how body plan diversity and morphological novelties have arisen and persisted in nature. The discovery of Hox genes in Drosophila, and their subsequent identification in most other metazoans, led biologists to try to understand how embryonic genes crucial for proper development have changed to promote the vast morphological variation seen in nature. Insects are ideal model systems for studying this diversity and the mechanisms underlying it because phylogenetic relationships are well established, powerful genetic tools have been developed, and there are many examples of evolutionary specializations that have arisen in nature in different insect lineages, such as the jumping leg of orthopterans and the helmet structures of treehoppers. Here, we briefly introduce the field of evo-devo and Hox genes, discuss functional tools available to study early developmental genes in insects, and provide examples in which changes in Hox genes have contributed to changes in body plan or morphology.
Molecular Systematics and Insecticide Resistance in the Major African Malaria Vector Anopheles funestus
Authors: Coetzee Maureen , Koekemoer Lizette L.
Published: January 2013

Anopheles funestus is one of three major African vectors of malaria. Its distribution extends over much of the tropics and subtropics wherever suitable swampy breeding habitats are present. As with members of the Anopheles gambiae complex, An. funestus shows marked genetic heterogeneity across its range. Currently, two unnamed species are recognized in the group, with molecular and cytogenetic data indicating that more may be present. The control of malaria vectors in Africa has received increased attention in the past decade with the scaling up of insecticide-treated bed nets and indoor residual house spraying. Also in the past decade, the frequency of insecticide-resistant mosquitoes has increased exponentially. Whether this increase is in response to vector control initiatives or because of insecticide use in agriculture is debatable. In this article we examine the progress made on the systematics of the An. funestus group and review research on insecticide resistance and its mechanisms.
Life as a Cataglyphologist—and Beyond
Authors: Wehner Rüdiger
Published: January 2013

Rüdiger Wehner's lifelong research activities centered on Cataglyphis have rendered these thermophilic desert ants model organisms in the study of animal navigation. The present account describes how the author encountered Cataglyphis and established a study site at Maharès, Tunisia; how he increasingly focused his research on the neuroethological analysis of the ant's navigational toolkit; and finally, how he extended these studies to thermophilic desert ants in other deserts of the world, to Ocymyrmex in southern Africa and Melophorus in central Australia. By including aspects of functional morphology, physiology, and ecology in his research projects, he has favored—and advocated—an organism-centered approach. Beyond “cataglyphology,” he was engaged in substantial teaching both at his home university in Zürich and overseas, writing a textbook, running a department, and working as a Permanent Fellow at the Institute for Advanced Study in Berlin.