bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conflict of interest: will it ever end?
Authors: Carney S. L.
Published: November 2012

Despite the inclusion of investigator–industry pecuniary and non‐pecunary associations in published clinical trials, the benefit of such disclosures may be limited. Two recent pivotal phase III drug studies that raised conflict of interest issues are discussed. It is recommended that in the future, a firewall should be erected between industry and investigators.
How we use recombinant activated Factor VII in patients with haemophilia A or B complicated by inhibitors
Authors: Brown S. A. , Barnes C. , Curtin J. , Dunkley S. , Ockelford P. , Phillips J. , Rowell J. , Smith M. , Tran H.
Published: November 2012

The management of bleeds in patients with haemophilia A or B complicated by inhibitors is complex. Recombinant activated Factor VII (rFVIIa; NovoSeven RT) is an established therapy in these patients. To develop a consensus‐based guide on the practical usage of rFVIIa in haemophilia complicated by inhibitors, nine expert haemophilia specialists from Australia and New Zealand developed practice points on the usage of rFVIIa, based on their experience and supported by published data. Practice points were developed for 13 key topics: control of acute bleeding; prophylaxis; surgical prophylaxis; control of breakthrough bleeding during surgery or treatment of acute bleeds; paediatric use; use in elderly; intracranial haemorrhage; immune tolerance induction; difficult bleeds; clinical monitoring of therapy; laboratory monitoring of therapy; concomitant antifibrinolytic medication; practical dosing. Access to home therapy with rFVIIa is important in allowing patients to administer treatment early in bleed management. In adults, 90–120 μg/kg is the favoured starting dose in most settings. Initial dosing using 90–180 μg/kg is recommended for children due to the effect of age on the pharmacokinetics of rFVIIa. In the management of acute bleeds, 2‐hourly dosing is appropriate until bleeding is controlled, with concomitant antifibrinolytic medication unless contraindicated. The practice points provide guidance on the usage of rFVIIa for all clinicians involved in the management of haemophilia complicated by inhibitors.
Expert Evidence, Judicial Reasoning, and the Family Courts Information Pilot
Authors: Ward Tony
Published: November 2012

The Family Courts Information Pilot took a modest step towards open justice in Children Act cases by publishing 161 judgments of the County Courts and Family Proceedings Courts. Combining socio‐legal and philosophical analysis on lines inspired by the work of Habermas, this article examines the epistemology of expert testimony implicit in the judgments. What emerges is a form of reasoning based on ‘inference to the best explanation’: judges seek to show that the best explanation for experts saying what they do is that they have good reasons for their opinions. While this approach is not blindly deferential, it has serious limitations in cases where the only experts are local authority social workers and the guardian, and an awareness of these limitations is one reason for the courts' willingness to allow other experts to be instructed. The article also criticizes the analysis of the courts’ use of experts by the recent Family Justice Review.
Making Monsters: The Polygraph, the Plethysmograph, and Other Practices for the Performance of Abnormal Sexuality
Authors: Balmer Andrew S. , Sandland Ralph
Published: November 2012

This article addresses the use of the polygraph, penile plethysmograph, and other practices for the management of sexual offenders as part of the ‘Containment Approach’, a strategy increasingly common in the United States which is, in part, being trialled in the United Kingdom. The polygraph has a tangled history with abnormal sexuality, as we describe in the context of homosexuality in the 1960s. We examine how these strategies target sex offenders as malleable in regard to sexual performances but also, through notions of risk management, paradoxically constitute offenders as fundamentally incurable and thus permanently risky. Using Foucault's notion of the ‘abnormal’, we investigate the implications of this risk management/ performance paradox. We conclude that it reveals a certain anxiety about the relationship between abnormal and normal sexual behaviour in contemporary sex‐offender management discourse, which can help explain the emergence of these practices.
Visualization and Analysis of Second‐Order Tensors: Moving Beyond the Symmetric Positive‐Definite Case
Authors: Kratz A. , Auer C. , Stommel M. , Hotz I.
Published: November 2012

Tensors provide a powerful language to describe physical phenomena. Consequently, they have a long tradition in physics and appear in various application areas, either as the final result of simulations or as intermediate product. Due to their complexity, tensors are hard to interpret. This motivates the development of well‐conceived visualization methods. As a sub‐branch of scientific visualization, tensor field visualization has been especially pushed forward by diffusion tensor imaging. In this review, we focus on second‐order tensors that are not diffusion tensors. Until now, these tensors, which might be neither positive‐definite nor symmetric, are under‐represented in visualization and existing visualization tools are often not appropriate for these tensors. Hence, we discuss the strengths and limitations of existing methods when dealing with such tensors as well as challenges introduced by them. The goal of this paper is to reveal the importance of the field and to encourage the development of new visualization methods for tensors from various application fields.
Migrants' Im/Mobilities on Their Way to the EU: Lost in Transit?
Authors: Schapendonk Joris
Published: November 2012

In the late 1990s transit migration to the European Union (EU) has emerged as a new field of discussion in both policy arenas and academia. It refers to migrants who are moving to third countries in the hope of reaching the EU after a short waiting period in the ‘transit country’. It is often seen as the missing link between emigration and settlement in the framework of irregular migration to the EU. This paper contributes to the transit migration debate by approaching migrants' transit statuses from a mobilities perspective. Based on empirical data gathered by the means of ethnographic engagements with sub‐Saharan African migrants in so‐called European transit spaces (Morocco and Turkey), it discusses migrants' experienced immobility and physical immobility on their ways to the EU.
The last Welsh Ice Cap: Part 1 – Modelling its evolution, sensitivity and associated climate
Authors: Patton Henry , Hubbard Alun , Glasser Neil F. , Bradwell Tom , Golledge Nicholas R.
Published: November 2012

A high‐resolution, three‐dimensional, thermomechanical ice‐flow model is used to investigate the glaciodynamics of the Last Glacial Maximum Welsh Ice Cap – a large, independent ice centre of the British–Irish Ice Sheet. The model uses higher‐order physics to solve longitudinal stresses, and is coupled to climate via a distributed, positive degree‐day mass‐balance scheme. A suite of model experiments driven by the GISP2 δ18O curve was initiated from a climatic optimum at 38.3 ka BP through to the Devensian/Holocene boundary to identify an icecap configuration compatible with available empirical evidence. An enhanced cooling from present of 11.85°C and strong precipitation suppression are required between 27.4 and 23.5 ka BP for the modelled icecap to attain well‐established empirical limits, a scenario probably associated with Heinrich Event‐2 and the potential collapse of thermohaline circulation in the North Atlantic. The experiments indicate ice‐dispersal centres located in North and Mid Wales, the latter being essential for forcing ice southwards of the Brecon Beacons during the Last Glacial Maximum. Deglaciation of the Welsh Ice Cap was relatively rapid, occurring within one millennium. Dynamic stability is governed largely by the dominance and vigour with which fast‐flowing outlet glaciers drain the icecap interior, which in turn are linked to variations in the climatic forcing. The distribution of permanently cold‐based ice across the uplands and summits indicates the probable preservation of relict landscapes in these areas throughout the full glacial cycle.
Challenges of Cardiopulmonary Bypass—A Review of the Veterinary Literature
Authors: Pelosi Augusta , Anderson Lorel K. , Paugh Jennine , Robinson Scott , Eyster George E.
Published: November 2012

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) has been used in veterinary medicine in experimental surgery and to address congenital and acquired diseases. We review the veterinary literature and expose common challenges of CPB in dogs and cats. Specifically, we describe the most specific elements of this technique in veterinary patients. The variety in animal size has made it difficult to standardize cannulation techniques, oxygenators, and priming volumes and solutions. The fact that one of the most common cardiovascular disorders, mitral valve disease, occurs predominantly in small dogs has limited the use of bypass in these patients because of the need for small, low prime oxygenators and pumps that have been unavailable until recently. Coagulation, hemostasis, and blood product availability have also represented important factors in the way CPB has developed over the years. The cost and the challenges in operating the bypass machine have represented substantial limitations in its broader use.
Outcome after Placement of an Artificial Urethral Sphincter in 27 Dogs
Authors: Reeves Lauren , Adin Christopher , McLoughlin Mary , Ham Kathleen , Chew Dennis
Published: November 2012

Objective

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of an adjustable artificial urethral sphincter (AUS) in a population of dogs with acquired or congenital urinary incontinence.

Study Design

Case series.

Animals

Dogs (n = 27) with naturally occurring urinary incontinence.

Methods

Medical records (January 2009–July 2011) of dogs that hadAUSimplantation for treatment of urinary incontinence were reviewed and owners were interviewed by telephone to assess outcome. Continence was scored using a previously established analogue scale, with 1 representing constant leakage and 10 representing complete continence.

Results

Twenty‐four female and 3 male dogs hadAUSimplantation. Causes of incontinence included urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence (n = 18), continued incontinence after ectopic ureter repair (6), and pelvic bladder (3). Medical therapy was unsuccessful in 25 dogs beforeAUSimplantation. Surgery was performed without major complications in 25 dogs; 2 developed partial urethral obstruction after 5 and 9 months. Median (interquartile range) follow‐up for the other 25 dogs was 12.5 (6–19) months. Continence scores were significantly improved (P< .0001) between the preoperative period (2 [1–4]) and last follow‐up (9 [8–10]). Overall, 22 owners described themselves as very satisfied, 2 as satisfied, and 3 as unsatisfied.

Conclusions

AUSimplantation was successful in restoring continence in male and female dogs with both congenital and acquired urinary incontinence. Dogs that develop partial urethral obstruction may requireAUSremoval.
Improving Default Risk Prediction Using Bayesian Model Uncertainty Techniques
Authors: Kazemi Reza , Mosleh Ali
Published: November 2012

Credit risk is the potential exposure of a creditor to an obligor's failure or refusal to repay the debt in principal or interest. The potential of exposure is measured in terms of probability of default. Many models have been developed to estimate credit risk, with rating agencies dating back to the 19th century. They provide their assessment of probability of default and transition probabilities of various firms in their annual reports. Regulatory capital requirements for credit risk outlined by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision have made it essential for banks and financial institutions to develop sophisticated models in an attempt to measure credit risk with higher accuracy. The Bayesian framework proposed in this article uses the techniques developed in physical sciences and engineering for dealing with model uncertainty and expert accuracy to obtain improved estimates of credit risk and associated uncertainties. The approach uses estimates from one or more rating agencies and incorporates their historical accuracy (past performance data) in estimating future default risk and transition probabilities. Several examples demonstrate that the proposed methodology can assess default probability with accuracy exceeding the estimations of all the individual models. Moreover, the methodology accounts for potentially significant departures from “nominal predictions” due to “upsetting events” such as the 2008 global banking crisis.
A Comparison of Responsive Interventions on Kindergarteners’ Early Reading Achievement
Authors: Little Mary E. , Rawlinson D'Ann , Simmons Deborah C. , Kim Minjung , Kwok Oi–man , Hagan–Burke Shanna , Simmons Leslie E. , Fogarty Melissa , Oslund Eric , Coyne Michael D.
Published: November 2012

This study compared the effects of Tier 2 reading interventions that operated in response–to–intervention contexts. Kindergarten children ( N = 90) who were identified as at risk for reading difficulties were stratified by school and randomly assigned to receive (a) Early Reading Intervention (ERI; Pearson/Scott Foresman, 2004) modified in response to student performance or (b) their schools’ typical supplemental reading intervention (regrouping and curriculum pacing adjustments). In both conditions, intervention was provided 30 minutes per day in small groups for approximately 100 sessions. Results indicated no statistically significant group differences on any outcome measures. Between–group effect sizes revealed substantively important differences (Valentine & Cooper, 2003) favoring the ERI responsive condition on multiple measures with effect sizes ranging from. 35 to. 59. Overall, findings indicated that the majority of students in both Tier 2 intervention conditions performed above the 30th percentile on posttest measures of word reading measures.
This Time Is the Same: Using Bank Performance in 1998 to Explain Bank Performance during the Recent Financial Crisis
Authors: FAHLENBRACH RÜDIGER , PRILMEIER ROBERT , STULZ RENÉ M.
Published: November 2012

Are some banks prone to perform poorly during crises? If yes, why? In this paper, we show that a bank's stock return performance during the 1998 crisis predicts its stock return performance and probability of failure during the recent financial crisis. This effect is economically large. Our findings are consistent with persistence in a bank's risk culture and/or aspects of its business model that make its performance sensitive to crises. Banks that relied more on short‐term funding, had more leverage, and grew more are more likely to be banks that performed poorly in both crises.
Building Bridges: Social Inclusion Problems as Research and Innovation Issues
Authors: Alzugaray Santiago , Mederos Leticia , Sutz Judith
Published: November 2012

This article discussed why specific efforts aimed at establishing direct relationships between social inclusion problems and research and innovation projects are needed, what are the main difficulties to achieve this objective, and how these difficulties can be addressed. This focus came from the successive calls of a program called “Research and Innovation Oriented to Social Inclusion,” implemented by the Research Council of the Universidad de la República, Uruguay. A critical appraisal of this experience and the main lessons learned were presented through the lens of an analytical tool: a circuit in which different types of actors interact while traveling along it. The point of departure of the circuit was the recognition that a problem that hampers social inclusion exists; the end of the circuit is reached if an effective solution for that problem is achieved. Some examples from actual research projects were included to illustrate the functioning of the circuit. The article analyzed with some detail the possible short circuits that may occur at each stage of the circuit and what their causes might be. It analyzed as well the transformations undergone by the “Research and Innovation Oriented to Social Inclusion” program and its attempts to avoid the short circuits, evolving in that way toward a more hands‐on strategy to link research and societal needs.
Engineering Small Worlds in a Big Society: Assessing the Early Impacts of Nanotechnology in China
Authors: Klochikhin Evgeny A. , Shapira Philip
Published: November 2012

Nanoscience and nanotechnology––involving the engineering of materials, devices, and systems at very small scales––have emerged as important priorities not only for science but also for economic development. In this article, we propose an analytical framework that considers the socioeconomic effects of nanotechnology in six key areas: institutional development, knowledge flows, and network efficiency; research and education capabilities; industrial and enterprise development; regional spread; cluster and network development; and product innovation. We apply this framework to assess the early impacts of the evolving domain of nanotechnology for development, with a focus on China and its transitioning economy, where nanotechnology is assuming an important role in breaking existing innovation system lock‐ins and historical path dependencies. We suggest that the analytical framework adds value in assessing the developmental impacts of new technologies and could be used to probe such impacts in other countries and locations.
Improving species distribution models using biotic interactions: a case study of parasites, pollinators and plants
Authors: Giannini Tereza Cristina , Chapman Daniel S. , Saraiva Antonio Mauro , Alves‐dos‐Santos Isabel , Biesmeijer Jacobus C.
Published: November 2012

Biotic interactions have been considered as an important factor to be included in species distribution modelling, but little is known about how different types of interaction or different strategies for modelling affect model performance. This study compares different methods for including interspecific interactions in distribution models for bees, their brood parasites, and the plants they pollinate. Host–parasite interactions among bumble bees (genus Bombus: generalist pollinators and brood parasites) and specialist plant–pollinator interactions between Centris bees and Krameria flowers were used as case studies. We used 7 different modelling algorithms available in the BIOMOD R package. For Bombus, the inclusion of interacting species distributions generally increased model predictive accuracy. The improvement was better when the interacting species was included with its raw distribution rather than with its modeled suitability. However, incorporating the distributions of non‐interacting species sometimes resulted in similarly increased model accuracy despite their being no significance of any interaction for the distribution. For the Centris‐Krameria system the best strategy for modelling biotic interactions was to include the interacting species model‐predicted values. However, the results were less consistent than those for Bombus species, and most models including biotic interactions showed no significant improvement over abiotic models. Our results are consistent with previous studies showing that biotic interactions can be important in structuring species distributions at regional scales. However, correlations between species distributions are not necessarily indicative of interactions. Therefore, choosing the correct biotic information, based on biological and ecological knowledge, is critical to improve the accuracy of species distribution models and forecast distribution change.
Liberating Conversations: John Stuart Mill and Mona Caird
Authors: Hookway Demelza
Published: November 2012

This essay considers how the New Woman writer Mona Caird engaged with John Stuart Mill’s ideas on liberty of discussion. It offers a brief history of Caird scholarship and considers the importance of free discussion tofin‐de‐siècleNew Woman debates. It outlines four elements of Millian philosophy which Caird draws on in her fictional depictions of conversation: male‐female friendship, independent thought, self‐development, and a quest for precision in word choice and usage. Finally, it traces these elements through Caird’s novels and short stories, charting a development from her nineteenth‐century fiction – which focuses on private discussion in upper‐class domestic settings – to her twentieth‐century novels – which consider directly how private conversational practices translate into political and scientific discussion groups open to a greater diversity of participants.
Inhibition of Clostridium perfringens Spore Germination and Outgrowth by Lemon Juice and Vinegar Product in Reduced NaCl Roast Beef
Authors: Li Lin , Valenzuela‐Martinez Carol , Redondo Mauricio , Juneja Vijay K. , Burson Dennis E. , Thippareddi Harshavardhan
Published: November 2012

Abstract:  Inhibition of Clostridium perfringens spore germination and outgrowth in reduced sodium roast beef by a blend of buffered lemon juice concentrate and vinegar (MoStatin LV1) during abusive exponential cooling was evaluated. Roast beef containing salt (NaCl; 1%, 1.5%, or 2%, w/w), blend of sodium pyro‐ and poly‐phosphates (0.3%), and MoStatin LV1 (0%, 2%, or 2.5%) was inoculated with a 3‐strain C. perfringens spore cocktail to achieve final spore population of 2.5 to 3.0 log CFU/g. The inoculated products were heat treated and cooled exponentially from 54.4 to 4.4 °C within 6.5, 9, 12, 15, 18, or 21 h. Cooling of roast beef (2.0% NaCl) within 6.5 and 9 h resulted in <1.0 log CFU/g increase in C. perfringens spore germination and outgrowth, whereas reducing the salt concentration to 1.5% and 1.0% resulted in >1.0 log CFU/g increase for cooling times longer than 9 h (1.1 and 2.2 log CFU/g, respectively). Incorporation of MoStatin LV1 into the roast beef formulation minimized the C. perfringens spore germination and outgrowth to <1.0 log CFU/g, regardless of the salt concentration and the cooling time.

Practical Application:  Cooked, ready‐to‐eat meat products should be cooled rapidly to reduce the risk of Clostridium perfringens spore germination and outgrowth. Meat processors are reducing the sodium chloride content of the processed meats as a consequence of the dietary recommendations. Sodium chloride reduces the risk of C. perfringens spore germination and outgrowth in meat products. Antimicrobials that contribute minimally to the sodium content of the product should be incorporated into processed meats to assure food safety. Buffered lemon juice and vinegar can be incorporated into meat product formulations to reduce the risk of C. perfringens spore germination and outgrowth during abusive cooling.
Hemiboea sinovietnamica sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae) from a limestone area along the boundary of Sino‐Vietnam
Authors: Xu Wei‐Bin , Huang Yu‐Song , Peng Ri‐Cheng , Zhuang Xue‐Ying
Published: November 2012

Hemiboea sinovietnamica W. B. Xu & X. Y. Zhuang, a new species of Gesneriaceae from a limestone area along the boundary of Sino‐Vietnam, is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to H. longgangensis Z. Y. Li with its yellowish corolla, but differs in having leaf blades glabrous on both sides, involucre trigonous, 2–3 cm in diameter, glabrous outside, glabrous cymes, a white calyx that is glabrous outside, and glabrous pistil and capsule.
Towards good practice guidance in using camera‐traps in ecology: influence of sampling design on validity of ecological inferences
Authors: Hamel Sandra , Killengreen Siw T. , Henden John‐Andre , Eide Nina E. , Roed‐Eriksen Lars , Ims Rolf A. , Yoccoz Nigel G.
Published: November 2012

The development of camera‐traps has provided an opportunity to study ecological relationships and population dynamics of species that are rare, difficult to observe or capture. Their use has seen a major increase recently, particularly with the recent progress in methods adapted to species for which individuals cannot be identified.

We took advantage of extensive camera‐trap data sets from large spatiotemporal‐scale studies of a diverse assemblage of avian and mammalian scavengers in subarctic/arctic tundra to determine sampling designs that minimize detection errors (false‐negative) and to evaluate the influence of sampling design on estimation of site occupancy.

Results showed that raw error rates in daily presence varied between 5 and 30% among species when using time‐triggered cameras with a 5‐min interval. Using movement‐triggered cameras resulted in larger raw error rates, between 30 and 70%, as well as a lower number of daily presences detected. Increasing the time interval from 5 to 20 min greatly increased the raw error rate in daily presence, but it had negligible impacts on estimates and precision of occupancy and detection probability.

Occupancy estimates were mostly influenced by variation in the number of days included during the sampling period. For most species, a threshold of between 20 and 30 problem‐free days (i.e. without camera‐related technical problems) was required to stabilize occupancy and detection probability, as well as to maximize their precision.

Based on the results, we discuss guidelines for establishing sampling designs according to the different ecological questions researchers might want to answer. To our knowledge, our study is the first to directly test the influence of sampling design in camera‐trap studies, providing guidelines that are likely to be directly applicable to a large range of species and ecosystems.
Predicting post‐discharge death or readmission: deterioration of model performance in population having multiple admissions per patient
Authors: van Walraven Carl , Wong Jenna , Forster Alan J. , Hawken Stephen
Published: November 2012

Background

To avoid biased estimates of standard errors in regression models, statisticians commonly limit the analytical dataset to one observation per patient.

Objective

Measure and explain changes in model performance when a model predicting 30‐day risk of death or urgent readmission (derived on a dataset having one hospitalization per patient) was applied to all hospitalizations for study patients.

Methods

Using administrative data from Ontario, we identified all hospitalizations of 499 996 patients between 2004 and 2009. We calculated the expected risk for 30‐day death or urgent readmission using a validated model. The observed‐to‐expected ratio was determined after categorizing patients into quintiles of rates for hospitalization, emergent hospitalizations, hospital day and total diagnostic risk score.

Results

Study patients had a total of 858 410 hospitalizations. Compared with a dataset having one hospitalization per patient, model performance declined significantly when applied to all hospitalizations [c‐statistic decreased from 0.768 to 0.730; the observed‐to‐expected ratio increased from 0.998 (95% confidence interval 0.977–0.999) to 1.305 (1.297–1.313)]. Model deterioration was most pronounced in patients with higher hospital utilization, with the observed‐to‐expected ratio increasing to 1.67 in the highest quintile of emergent hospitalization rates.

Conclusions

The accuracy of predicting 30‐day death or urgent readmission decreased significantly when the unit of analysis changed from the patient to the hospitalization. Patients with heavy hospital utilization likely have characteristics, not adequately captured in the model, that increase the risk of death or urgent readmission after discharge from hospital. Adequately capturing the characteristics of such high‐end hospital users may improve readmission models.
Interrelationship of clinical, histomorphometric and immunohistochemical features of oral lesions in chronic paracoccidioidomycosis
Authors: de Abreu e Silva Mariana À. , Salum Fernanda G. , Figueiredo Maria A. , Lopes Tiago G. , da Silva Vinicius D. , Cherubini Karen
Published: November 2012

Background

This study aimed to analyze the oral lesions of chronic paracoccidioidomycosis concerning their histomorphometric, immunohistochemical, and clinical features in a standardized sample.

Methods

Fifty biopsy specimens of oral lesions of chronic paracoccidioidomycosis were submitted to hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), Grocott–Gomori and immunohistochemical staining. Data regarding disease duration and size and number of oral lesions, as well as erythrocytes, leukocytes, lymphocytes, hematocrit, hemoglobin, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, were collected from medical charts. Granuloma density and number and diameter of buds and fungal cells, and IL‐2, TNF‐alpha and IFN‐gamma expression, as well as clinical and hematological features, were quantified and correlated.

Results

Bud diameter was significantly greater in intermediate density granulomas compared to higher density granulomas. The other variables (number of buds, number and diameter of fungi, expression of IL‐2, TNF‐alpha and IFN‐gamma, and clinical and hematological features) did not significantly change with the density of granulomas. There was a positive correlation between bud number and fungal cell number (r = 0.834), bud diameter and fungal cell diameter (r = 0.496), erythrocytes and number of fungi (r = 0.420), erythrocytes and bud number (r = 0.408), and leukocytes and bud number (r = 0.396). Negative correlation occurred between number and diameter of fungi (r = −0.419), bud diameter and granuloma density (r = −0.367), TNF‐alpha expression and number of fungi (r = −0.372), and TNF‐alpha expression and bud number (r = −0.300).

Conclusion

The histological, immunological, and clinical features of oral lesions evaluated did not differ significantly between patients in our sample of chronic paracoccidioidomycosis. TNF‐alpha levels were inversely correlated with intensity of infection.
Diversity of Halimeda (Bryopsidales, Chlorophyta) in New Caledonia: a Combined Morphological and Molecular Study
Authors: Dijoux Laury , Verbruggen Heroen , Mattio Lydiane , Duong Nathalie , Payri Claude
Published: November 2012

Halimeda is a genus of calcified and segmented green macroalgae in the order Bryopsidales. In New Caledonia, the genus is abundant and represents an important part of the reef flora. Previous studies recorded 19 species that were identified using morphological criteria. The aim of this work was to reassess the diversity of the genus in New Caledonia using morpho‐anatomical examinations and molecular analyses of the plastid tufA and rbcL genes. Our results suggest the occurrence of 22 species. Three of these are reported for the first time from New Caledonia: Halimeda kanaloana, H. xishaensis, and an entity resembling H. stuposa. DNA analyses revealed that the species H. fragilis exhibits cryptic or pseudocryptic diversity in New Caledonia. We also show less conclusive evidence for cryptic species within H. taenicola
Comparison of FIB‐4 and APRI in Chinese HBV‐infected patients with persistently normal ALT and mildly elevated ALT
Authors: Wang H. , Xue L. , Yan R. , Zhou Y. , Wang M. S. , Cheng M. J. , Huang H. J.
Published: November 2012

Significant liver disease has been reported in chronic hepatitis B patients with normal alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Liver biopsy (LB) is the current gold standard for assessing hepatic inflammation and fibrosis in patients with chronic HBV. However, associated risks have led to the development of noninvasive models. Their utility in patients with normal ALT is unknown. FIB‐4 and aspartate aminotransferase (AST)‐to‐platelet ratio index (APRI) were calculated for patients with chronic HBV infection undergoing biopsy. The performance of each model and AUROC for predicting significant fibrosis (Scheuer's score ≥ S2) were determined for the entire cohort and stratified by elevated (≥50 U/L) and normal ALT. Two‐hundred and thirty‐one liver biopsies were included. The number of patient with normal ALT was 140, and 22.1% had significant fibrosis. The AUROC curve for patients with normal ALT was 0.81 for FIB‐4 and 0.80 for APRI, compared with 0.71 for FIB‐4 and 0.72 for APRI for those with mildly elevated ALT level. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of FIB‐4 were 0.63, 0.88, 0.61 and 0.93, for patients with normal ALT; the values for APRI were 0.40, 0.88, 0.33 and 0.93. Both FIB‐4 and APRI are useful for identification of those without significant fibrosis. However, because they have poor PPV, LB will continue to be used for assessment of HBV‐infected patients with normal ALT and mildly elevated ALT.
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in children: 25 years' experience
Authors: Popalis C. , Yeung L. T. F. , Ling S. C. , Ng V. , Roberts E. A.
Published: November 2012

Whereas e‐seroconversion represents the loss of hepatitis B e‐antigen (HBeAg) followed by gain of antibody to HBeAg (anti‐HBe), ‘inactive chronic infection’ extends this concept to include e‐seroconversion with decreased serum viral load and biochemical remission. These events must be well‐characterized before treatment outcomes can be evaluated. We examined the rates of e‐seroconversion and achievement of inactive chronic infection among children with chronic HBV infection. Children who were HBsAg positive >6 months were identified retrospectively between 1983 and 2008 from the Hospital for Sick Children Liver Clinic. Inactive chronic infection was defined as loss of HBeAg, serum ALT ≤40 IU/mL, and HBV DNA <106 IU/mL. Both e‐seroconversion and achievement of inactive chronic infection were characterized using survival analysis. The effect of transmission route, treatment, age at diagnosis, ethnicity, gender and baseline ALT on these rates was evaluated with univariate and multiple regression. Of 252 HBeAg‐positive cases, 59.9% had HBV‐infected mothers, 77% were Asian, and 33 received interferon‐α. Untreated children were younger at last follow‐up (mean 14.5 vs 17.6 years), had lower ALT (median 60 vs 116 IU/mL) and had shorter follow‐up (6.6 vs 9.1 years, all P < 0.002) compared to treated children. Crude e‐seroconversion rate was 41.7% over 0.5–19.1 years of follow‐up, and this was not affected by transmission route (P = 0.93), gender (P = 0.62) nor treatment (P = 0.08). 49% achieved inactive chronic infection by age 19 years. Being non‐Asian, age at diagnosis<3 years, and ALT ≥40 IU/mL were associated with a higher rate of e‐seroconversion and achieving inactive chronic infection (P < 0.0001). Almost 50% of children achieved inactive chronic infection by early adulthood.
Prospective Clinical Trial to Compare Vincristine and Vinblastine in aCOP‐Based Protocol for Lymphoma in Cats
Authors: Krick E.L. , Cohen R.B. , Gregor T.P. , Salah (Griessmayr) P.C. , Sorenmo K.U.
Published: November 2012

Background

Current standard chemotherapy protocols for lymphoma in cats carry risks of gastrointestinal toxicity, which can decrease quality of life and complicate response assessment. Protocols with less gastrointestinal toxicity may improve treatment tolerance.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The study purpose was to compare response rate, outcome, and toxicity between cats that received vincristine or vinblastine as part of combination chemotherapy for lymphoma. We hypothesized that vinblastine would have similar efficacy, but less gastrointestinal toxicity, compared with vincristine.

Animals

Forty client‐owned cats with confirmed diagnosis of lymphoma.

Methods

Cats were randomized to 1 of 2 treatment arms and received weeklyCOP‐based chemotherapy for 6 months or until disease progression. Response rate, progression‐free survival (PFS), lymphoma‐specific survival (LSS), and incidence and severity of gastrointestinal and hematologic toxicity were compared between arms. Arm cross‐over occurred if specific gastrointestinal toxicity criteria were noted.

Results

Cats in both arms had similar response rates,PFS, andLSS(48 versus 64 days,P = .87; 139 versus 136 days,P = .96). Cats that received vincristine were significantly more likely to switch arms based on gastrointestinal toxicity than cats that received vinblastine (44.4 versus 10.5%,P = .02). Lower baseline weight was significantly negatively associated withPFSandLSS(P = .01,P = .003, respectively). Baseline anemia was significantly negatively associated withLSS(P = .04).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Results suggest that vinblastine is a reasonable alternative to vincristine in the treatment of some cats with lymphoma. Baseline body weight remains a significant prognostic factor for cats with lymphoma.
Heterogeneous Firm Responses to Rising Teenage Wages
Authors: Hyslop Dean R. , Maré David C. , Stillman Steven , Timmins Jason
Published: November 2012

Substantial youth minimum wage changes in New Zealand between 2000 and 2007 raised teenage average wages by 5–10 per cent relative to those for adults. We use Statistics New Zealand's Linked Employer–Employee Database (LEED) to examine whether firms' teenage labour demand responses to these changes are greater for firms with higher teenage‐employment share. We find evidence that high teen‐employers reduced their teen employment relative to other firms and had lower survival rates over the period. However, firms that entered the main teen‐employment industries had higher teen‐employment shares than continuing firms. The results are consistent with endogenous technology adoption in response to non‐marginal changes in relative wages.
Endogenous and nonimpact origin of the Arkenu circular structures (al‐Kufrah basin—SE Libya)
Authors: CIGOLINI Corrado , DI MARTINO Mario , LAIOLO Marco , COPPOLA Diego , ROSSETTI Piergiorgio , MORELLI Marco
Published: November 2012

Abstract– The twin Arkenu circular structures (ACS), located in the al‐Kufrah basin in southeastern Libya, were previously considered as double impact craters (the “Arkenu craters”). The ACS consist of a NE (Arkenu 1) and a SW structure (Arkenu 2), with approximate diameters of about 10 km. They are characterized by two shallow depressions surrounded by concentric circular ridges and silica‐impregnated sedimentary dikes cut by local faults. Our field, petrographic, and textural observations exclude that the ACS have an impact origin. In fact, we did not observe any evidence of shock metamorphism, such as planar deformation features in the quartz grains of the collected samples, and the previously reported “shatter cones” are wind‐erosion features in sandstones (ventifacts). Conversely, the ACS should be regarded as a “paired” intrusion of porphyritic stocks of syenitic composition that inject the Nubia Formation and form a rather simple and eroded ring dike complex. Stock emplacement was followed by hydrothermal activity that involved the deposition of massive magnetite–hematite horizons (typical of iron oxide copper‐gold deposits). Their origin was nearly coeval with the development of silicified dikes in the surroundings. Plugs of tephritic‐phonolitic rocks and lamprophyres (monchiquites) inject the Nubian sandstone along conjugate fracture zones, trending NNW–SSE and NE–SW, that crosscut the structural axis of the basin.
Cryptic speciation in the field vole: a multilocus approach confirms three highly divergent lineages in Eurasia
Authors: Paupério J. , Herman J. S. , Melo‐Ferreira J. , Jaarola M. , Alves P. C. , Searle J.B.
Published: November 2012

Species are generally described from morphological features, but there is growing recognition of sister forms that show substantial genetic differentiation without obvious morphological variation and may therefore be considered ‘cryptic species’. Here, we investigate the field vole (Microtus agrestis), a Eurasian mammal with little apparent morphological differentiation but which, on the basis of previous sex‐linked nuclear and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analyses, is subdivided into a Northern and a Southern lineage, sufficiently divergent that they may represent two cryptic species. These earlier studies also provided limited evidence for two major mtDNA lineages within Iberia. In our present study, we extend these findings through a multilocus approach. We sampled 163 individuals from 46 localities, mainly in Iberia, and sequenced seven loci, maternally, paternally and biparentally inherited. Our results show that the mtDNA lineage identified in Portugal is indeed a distinct third lineage on the basis of other markers as well. In fact, multilocus coalescent‐based methods clearly support three separate evolutionary units that may represent cryptic species: Northern, Southern and Portuguese. Divergence among these units was inferred to have occurred during the last glacial period; the Portuguese lineage split occurred first (estimated at c. 70 000 bp), and the Northern and Southern lineages separated at around the last glacial maximum (estimated at c. 18 500 bp). Such recent formation of evolutionary units that might be considered species has repercussions in terms of understanding evolutionary processes and the diversity of small mammals in a European context.
Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms of two closely related microsporidian parasites suggest a clonal population expansion after the last glaciation
Authors: Haag Karen L. , Traunecker Emmanuel , Ebert Dieter
Published: November 2012

The mode of reproduction of microsporidian parasites has remained puzzling since many decades. It is generally accepted that microsporidia are capable of sexual reproduction, and that some species have switched to obligate asexuality, but such process had never been supported with population genetic evidence. We examine the mode of reproduction of Hamiltosporidium tvaerminnensis and Hamiltosporidium magnivora, two closely related microsporidian parasites of the widespread freshwater crustacean Daphnia magna, based on a set of 129 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms distributed across 16 genes. We analyse 20 H. tvaerminnensis isolates from localities representative of the entire species' geographic distribution along the Skerry Island belt of the Baltic Sea. Five isolates of the sister species H. magnivora were used for comparison. We estimate the recombination rates in H. tvaerminnensis to be at least eight orders of magnitude lower than in H. magnivora and not significantly different from zero. This is corroborated by the higher divergence between H. tvaerminnensis alleles (including fixed heterozygosity), as compared to H. magnivora. Our study confirms that sexual recombination is present in microsporidia, that it can be lost, and that asexuals may become epidemic.
QUANTITATIVE METHODS FOR DECISION SUPPORT IN THE ICELANDIC FISHING INDUSTRY
Authors: ÓLAFSSON ARI , MARGEIRSSON SVEINN , INGI ÁSGEIRSSON EYJÓLFUR , STEFÁNSSON HLYNUR , JENSSON PÁLL , GUðMUNDSSON RUNÓLFUR , ARASON SIGURJÓN
Published: November 2012

AbstractModern fisheries already collect vast amount of data, for example, through ERP systems and electronic log‐books. It is however well known that the data are rarely used for improving operational decision making. By converting this data into useable information, decision making in the fishing industry could be improved. This paper attempts to show that quantitative methods can be of use in many aspects of decision making in the fishing industry. The paper proposes a hierarchically structured decision support process based on two different optimization models for supporting the long‐ and short‐term decision making in fisheries. For long‐term planning the paper proposes a linear optimization model that describes the entire operation of a vertically integrated seafood company. For short‐term decision making the paper proposes a mixed integer linear optimization model to assist in organizing vessel trips and deciding catch location with regard to raw material quality and yield obtained in processing.
The physiological roles and metabolism of ascorbate in chloroplasts
Authors: Tóth Szilvia Z. , Schansker Gert , Garab Győző
Published: November 2012

Ascorbate is a multifunctional metabolite in plants. It is essential for growth control, involving cell division and cell wall synthesis and also involved in redox signaling, in the modulation of gene expression and regulation of enzymatic activities. Ascorbate also fulfills crucial roles in scavenging reactive oxygen species, both enzymatically and nonenzymatically, a well‐established phenomenon in the chloroplasts stroma. We give an overview on these important physiological functions and would like to give emphasis to less well‐known roles of ascorbate, in the thylakoid lumen, where it also plays multiple roles. It is essential for photoprotection as a cofactor for violaxanthin de‐epoxidase, a key enzyme in the formation of nonphotochemical quenching. Lumenal ascorbate has recently also been shown to act as an alternative electron donor of photosystem II once the oxygen‐evolving complex is inactivated and to protect the photosynthetic machinery by slowing down donor‐side induced photoinactivation; it is yet to be established if ascorbate has a similar role in the case of other stress effects, such as high light and UV‐B stress. In bundle sheath cells, deficient in oxygen evolution, ascorbate provides electrons to photosystem II, thereby poising cyclic electron transport around photosystem I. It has also been shown that, by supporting linear electron transport through photosystem II in sulfur‐deprived Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cells, in which oxygen evolution is largely inhibited, externally added ascorbate enhances hydrogen production. For fulfilling its multiple roles, Asc has to be transported into the thylakoid lumen and efficiently regenerated; however, very little is known yet about these processes.
Simultaneous measurements of H+ and O2 fluxes in Zostera marina and its physiological implications
Authors: Lin A‐Peng , Wang Guang‐Ce , Zhou Wen‐Qin
Published: November 2012

Zostera marina (eelgrass) is an important ecological component of many shallow, temperate lagoons. Evidence suggests that Z. marina has a high bicarbonate utilization capability, which could be promoted by possible proton extrusion and the consequent formation of an ‘acid zone’ in the apoplastic space (unstirred layer) of its leaves. It has been found that 50 mM of the buffer Tris significantly inhibited the photosynthetic O2 evolution of Z. marina and it was proposed that this was because of Tris's ability to bond with protons outside the cell wall. To investigate if H+ played an important role in the photosynthetic carbon utilization of Z. marina, it is very important to simultaneously monitor the photosynthesis status and possible H+ fluxes. However, probably because of the lack of suitable techniques, this has never been attempted. In this study, experiments were undertaken on Z. marina by monitoring H+ and O2 fluxes and the relative electron transport rates during light–dark transition. During stable photosynthesis, in addition to an obvious O2 outflow, there was a significant net H+ influx connected to Z. marina photosynthesis. The inhibitory effects of both Tris and respiration inhibitors on apparent O2 evolution of Z. marina were confirmed. However, evidence did not support the proposed Tris inhibition mechanism.
A Modified Cellular Automaton in Lagrange Form with Velocity Dependent Acceleration Rate
Authors: RAWAT Kamini , KATIYAR Vinod Kumar , GUPTA Pratibha
Published: November 2012

Based on Nasch model of single lane traffic flow, a modified Cellular Automaton traffic flow model incorporating s-t-s effect among vehicles given in Lagrange model for traffic flow is proposed to simulate homogeneous and mixed type traffic flow. The model is developed with modified cell size, incorporating different acceleration characteristics depending upon the speed of each individual vehicle. Comparisons are made between Nasch model and modified model. It is observed that slope of congested branch is changed for modified model due to variable acceleration rate.