bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grains of connectivity: analysis at multiple spatial scales in landscape genetics
Authors: GALPERN PAUL , MANSEAU MICHELINE , WILSON PAUL
Published: June 2012

Landscape genetic analyses are typically conducted at one spatial scale. Considering multiple scales may be essential for identifying landscape features influencing gene flow. We examined landscape connectivity for woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) at multiple spatial scales using a new approach based on landscape graphs that creates a Voronoi tessellation of the landscape. To illustrate the potential of the method, we generated five resistance surfaces to explain how landscape pattern may influence gene flow across the range of this population. We tested each resistance surface using a raster at the spatial grain of available landscape data (200 m grid squares). We then used our method to produce up to 127 additional grains for each resistance surface. We applied a causal modelling framework with partial Mantel tests, where evidence of landscape resistance is tested against an alternative hypothesis of isolation‐by‐distance, and found statistically significant support for landscape resistance to gene flow in 89 of the 507 spatial grains examined. We found evidence that major roads as well as the cumulative effects of natural and anthropogenic disturbance may be contributing to the genetic structure. Using only the original grid surface yielded no evidence for landscape resistance to gene flow. Our results show that using multiple spatial grains can reveal landscape influences on genetic structure that may be overlooked with a single grain, and suggest that coarsening the grain of landcover data may be appropriate for highly mobile species. We discuss how grains of connectivity and related analyses have potential landscape genetic applications in a broad range of systems.
A Bacillus subtilis sensor kinase involved in triggering biofilm formation on the roots of tomato plants
Authors: Chen Yun , Cao Shugeng , Chai Yunrong , Clardy Jon , Kolter Roberto , Guo Jian‐hua , Losick Richard
Published: June 2012

The soil bacterium Bacillus subtilis is widely used in agriculture as a biocontrol agent able to protect plants from a variety of pathogens. Protection is thought to involve the formation of bacterial communities – biofilms – on the roots of the plants. Here we used confocal microscopy to visualize biofilms on the surface of the roots of tomato seedlings and demonstrated that biofilm formation requires genes governing the production of the extracellular matrix that holds cells together. We further show that biofilm formation was dependent on the sensor histidine kinase KinD and in particular on an extracellular CACHE domain implicated in small molecule sensing. Finally, we report that exudates of tomato roots strongly stimulated biofilm formation ex planta and that an abundant small molecule in the exudates, L‐malic acid, was able to stimulate biofilm formation at high concentrations in a manner that depended on the KinD CACHE domain. We propose that small signalling molecules released by the roots of tomato plants are directly or indirectly recognized by KinD, triggering biofilm formation.
The nitric oxide reductase of enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli plays an important role for the survival within macrophages
Authors: Shimizu Takeshi , Tsutsuki Hiroyasu , Matsumoto Akio , Nakaya Haruaki , Noda Masatoshi
Published: June 2012

In enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) O157, there are two types of anaerobic nitric oxide (NO) reductase genes, an intact gene (norV) and a 204 bp deletion gene (norVs). Epidemiological analysis has revealed that norV‐type EHEC are more virulent than norVs‐type EHEC. Thus, to reveal the role of NO reductase during EHEC infection, we constructed isogenic norV‐type and norVs‐type EHEC mutant strains. Under anaerobic conditions, the norV‐type EHEC was protected from NO‐mediated growth inhibition, while the norVs‐type EHEC mutant strain was not, suggesting that NorV of EHEC was effective in the anaerobic detoxification. We then investigated the role of NO reductase within macrophages. The norV‐type EHEC produced a lower NO level within macrophages compared with the norVs‐type EHEC. Moreover, the norV‐type EHEC resulted in higher levels of Shiga toxin 2 (Stx2) within macrophages compared with the norVs‐type EHEC. Finally, the norV‐type EHEC showed a better level of survival than the norVs‐type EHEC. These data suggest that the intact norV gene plays an important role for the survival of EHEC within macrophages, and is a direct virulence determinant of EHEC.
Downregulation of TLR‐7 receptor in hepatic and non‐hepatic patients with lichen planus
Authors: El Tawdy Amira , Rashed Laila
Published: June 2012

Background  Lichen planus (LP) is an inflammatory disease of the skin and oral mucosa. The association of LP and chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) is well established, with variable prevalence rates among different populations. Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) are key regulators of both the innate response and the adaptive response. However, TLRs also interact with endogenous ligands released by necrotic cells, and this process can intensify autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Objective  To investigate the role of Toll‐like receptor‐7 (TLR‐7) in LP through the detection of TLR‐7 protein, and to compare between the expression of TLR‐7 protein in HCV‐positive and HCV‐negative patients with LP.

Materials and methods  The study included 20 skin biopsies from patients with LP and 10 control biopsies. TLR‐7 protein was detected by Western blot analysis. Detection of HCV‐specific antibodies in the patient serum was done using ELISA technique.

Results  Our analysis revealed a significantly lower level of TLR‐7 protein in all the LP skin biopsies compared with controls. The expression showed no difference between HCV‐positive and HCV‐negative patients.

Conclusion  We concluded that TLR‐7 abnormal expression in LP may have an impact on the pathogenesis of the disease. TLR‐7 receptor and HCV relationship in patients with LP could not be confirmed by this study.
Detection of human papillomavirus type 16 in Bowen’s carcinoma of the toe
Authors: Mii Sumiyuki , Niiyama Shiro , Takasu Hiroshi , Kosaka Shinichiro , Hara Kazuya , Kitasato Hidero , Sato Yuichi , Katsuoka Kensei
Published: June 2012

Background  Human papillomavirus (HPV) is known to cause cervical cancer. Because it has been detected in lesions of Bowenoid papulosis, Bowen’s disease, and Bowen’s carcinoma, HPV infection has been implicated in the pathogenesis of these diseases.

Methods  A 44‐year‐old man was diagnosed clinicopathologically with Bowen’s carcinoma of the right great toe. He developed multiple organ metastases and died. We examined HPV DNA in skin biopsy specimens from the primary and skin metastatic lesions by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and in situ hybridization (ISH). The PCR assay was carried out using primer sets specifically designed for detecting the E6 and E7 genes of the HPV types associated with malignancy. Purified and cloned PCR products were subjected to DNA sequence analysis. The ISH studies used INFORM® HPV III probes.

Results  We found HPV DNA in specimens from both the primary and the skin metastatic lesions. DNA sequencing detected HPV type 16. We compared the base sequences of viral DNA from the primary and metastatic lesions. Point mutations of the base sequences of the E6 and E7 genes were observed in viral DNA from metastases but not in that from primary lesions. The E6 gene had mutated from G to A in the 383rd base sequence, causing a Glu‐to‐Lys amino acid change. Results of ISH showed punctuate signals in the nuclei of tumor cells.

Conclusions  We suspect an association between HPV 16 infection and the development of this malignant occurrence.
Risk factors for surgical site infection after dermatological surgery
Authors: Heal Clare F. , Buettner Petra G. , Drobetz Herwig
Published: June 2012

Objectives  Surgical site infection (SSI) following minor surgery contributes to patient morbidity and compromises cosmetic outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of and risk factors for SSI after dermatological surgery in general practice.

Methods  A prospective, observational study which assessed infection among 972 patients was conducted in regional north Queensland, Australia. Consecutive patients presenting for minor skin excisions were invited to participate. Wounds were assessed for SSI at the time of removal of sutures.

Results  Infection occurred in 85 of the 972 excisions; thus, the overall incidence of infection was 8.7% (95% confidence interval 6.5–11.0). Excisions in the upper (P < 0.001) or lower (P < 0.001) extremities, excisions of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) (P = 0.001) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (P = 0.001), and re‐excision of skin cancer were found to be independent risk factors for wound infection. The length of the excision (P < 0.001) and the patient’s status as an ex‐smoker (P = 0.019) were additional independent risk factors for infection. Diabetes was not found to be an independent risk factor for infection (P = 0.891).

Conclusions  Prophylactic antibiotics are probably prescribed excessively or inappropriately for dermatological surgery, and overall we wish to discourage their use. The results of this study may encourage the more judicial use of prophylactic antibiotics by defining high‐risk procedures, such as excisions from the extremities, excision of BCC or SCC, and larger excisions, and patients who are at high risk for infection, such as ex‐smokers.
Itch pathophysiology may differ among ethnic groups
Authors: Hajdarbegovic Enes , Thio Hok Bing
Published: June 2012

The prevalence of itch is higher in individuals with darker skin types. In this paper, we review the systems involved in the physiology of itch and how they may differ across the races. Current data point out that the differences may be explained by barrier function, mast cell physiology, and itch receptor polymorphisms.
Varicella‐zoster virus (VZV) and alpha 1 antitrypsin: a fatal outcome in a patient affected by endemic pemphigus foliaceus
Authors: Abreu Velez Ana Maria , Smoller Bruce R. , Gao Weiqing , Grossniklaus Hans E. , Jiao Zhe , Arias Luis F. , Dudley Samuel C. , Howard Michael S.
Published: June 2012

Background  Herpes virus infections are well known infectious complications of pemphigus and bullous pemphigoid. We describe pathologic findings utilizing autopsy tissue from several organs from a patient affected by a new variant of endemic pemphigus in El Bagre, Colombia, South America.

Case report  We describe a patient by a new variant of endemic pemphigus foliaceus from El Bagre that was receiving high‐dosage immunosuppressants when hospitalized and died suddenly following contact with a second patient affected by chicken pox.

Materials and methods  We performed studies utilizing hematoxylin and eosin, immunohistochemistry, and direct immunofluorescence techniques on tissues from several organs.

Results  We detected the presence of varicella zoster virus, as well as strong positivity for α‐1 antitrypsin in the heart, kidneys, spleen, liver, skin, brain, lungs, pancreas, small and large intestines, and skeletal muscle. In regard to structural damage in the kidney and heart, we believe the observed damage is associated with the presence of autoantibodies to these organs, since both of them are rich in plakins and El Bagre‐EPF patients present significant antibodies to plakin molecules.

Conclusion  In patients with endemic pemphigus foliaceus, we recommend complete isolation of the patient when receiving high dosages of systemic immunosuppressive agents. We further suggest the clinical possibility of a synergistic, fatal interaction between active pemphigus foliaceus, varicella zoster virus, herpes simplex virus, immunosuppressive agents, and a systemic activation of α‐1 antitrypsin. Thus, we suggest adequate bed spacing, barrier nursing, and preventative testing for α‐1 antitrypsin activation are warranted in these patients to address these complications.
Identification of a novel HLA‐B*46 allele, B*46:01:07, in a Chinese individual
Authors: Jiao S.‐X. , Liu X.‐H. , Chi X.‐Y. , Zhao L. , Feng Z.‐H.
Published: June 2012

The novel allele B*46:01:07 was identified in a Chinese individual by sequence‐based typing.
Maternal and foetal effects of remifentanil for general anaesthesia in parturients undergoing caesarean section: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: HEESEN M. , KLÖHR S. , HOFMANN T. , ROSSAINT R. , DEVROE S. , STRAUBE S. , VAN DE VELDE M.
Published: June 2012

Background

Remifentanil has been suggested for the induction of general anaesthesia for caesarean section. We aimed to define remifentanil effects on maternal stress response as well as neonatal effects.

Methods

Relevant articles were retrieved by a systematic literature search. Randomized, controlled trials comparing remifentanil use before delivery with placebo were selected. Maternal outcome parameters were blood pressure and heart rate; neonatal effects included the need for mask ventilation and intubation, base excess, pH values, Apgar < 7 at 1 and 5 min. The random effects model was used for meta‐analysis; risk ratio or weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were calculated.

Results

Five articles including 186 patients were identified. Highest and lowest systolic blood pressure were significantly lower in the remifentanil group (WMD: −29.98, −50.90 to −9.07 mmHg, 95% CI; P = 0.005; and WMD: −12.46, −18.21 to −6.71 mmHg, 95% CI; P < 0.0001), the lowest heart rate was significantly lower after remifentanil treatment (WMD: −8.22, −11.67 to −4.78, 95% CI; P < 0.00001). Base excess was significantly higher in infants of remifentanil‐treated mothers (WMD: 1.15, −0.27 to 2.03, 95% CI; P = 0.01); pH was also higher in the remifentanil group, but significance was missed (P = 0.07). No differences were observed for Apgar values or the need of airway assist.

Conclusion

Remifentanil was found to attenuate the maternal circulatory response to intubation and surgery. Higher base excess and pH suggest a beneficial effect on the neonatal acid‐base status. A trial with adequate power is warranted that addresses neonatal side‐effects of remifentanil.
Estimating fluctuating selection in age‐structured populations
Authors: ENGEN S. , SÆTHER B.‐E. , KVALNES T. , JENSEN H.
Published: June 2012

In age‐structured populations, viability and fecundity selection of varying strength may occur in different age classes. On the basis of an original idea by Fisher of weighting individuals by their reproductive value, we show that the combined effect of selection on traits at different ages acts through the individual reproductive value defined as the stochastic contribution of an individual to the total reproductive value of the population the following year. The selection differential is a weighted sum of age‐specific differentials that are the covariances between the phenotype and the age‐specific relative fitness defined by the individual reproductive value. This enables estimation of weak selection on a multivariate quantitative character in populations with no density regulation by combinations of age‐specific linear regressions of individual reproductive values on the traits. Demographic stochasticity produces random variation in fitness components in finite samples of individuals and affects the statistical inference of the temporal average directional selection as well as the magnitude of fluctuating selection. Uncertainties in parameter estimates and test power depend strongly on the demographic stochasticity. Large demographic variance results in large uncertainties in yearly estimates of selection that complicates detection of significant fluctuating selection. The method is illustrated by an analysis of age‐specific selection in house sparrows on a fitness‐related two‐dimensional morphological trait, tarsus length and body mass of fledglings.
Erodium maritimum (Geraniaceae), a species with an uneven and fragmented distribution along the Western Mediterranean and European Atlantic coasts, has a weak genetic structure
Authors: Alarcón M. L. , Vargas P. , Aldasoro J. J.
Published: June 2012

Erodium maritimum L. is an annual species presenting heterogeneous, sometimes very small, and distant populations, distributed along a discontinuous coastal strip of the European Atlantic and the central and western Mediterranean basin. The aim of this study is to investigate genetic variation and geographic structure changes across its large distribution. Fourteen populations of E. maritimum were studied using AFLP fingerprints, together with their population sizes, reproductive systems and flower visitors. AFLP markers revealed the genetic structure of the species to be weak. Many individuals from one population clustered together with those of other populations, showing a high degree of genetic admixture. Despite having a self‐compatible reproductive system, populations (especially the largest ones) showed high levels of genetic polymorphism, and the majority of genetic variation was contained within populations. The low genetic structure suggests high levels of gene flow, which might be explained through the dispersability of the species’ fruits. Finally, recommendations are provided for management strategies to facilitate the conservation of this endangered species.
Interactions Among Female Guppies (Poecilia reticulata) Affect Growth and Reproduction
Authors: Borg Åsa A. , Åsmul Tommy , Bolstad Geir H. , Viken Åslaug , Berglund Anders , Rosenqvist Gunilla
Published: June 2012

Competition among females over resources may have consequences for their resource budgets and thereby the resource allocation between growth and reproduction. In addition, the consequences of female–female interactions may differ for dominant and subordinate individuals, with the dominant ones being at an advantage. In this study, we investigated the consequences of female–female competition in guppies by manipulating the competitive environment of females. We found that large guppy females dominated smaller females and that interactions between females likely are costly because females exposed to competition grew less. These females compensated by growing at a higher rate when no longer subjected to competition. The higher growth rate might in turn be the cause of the reduced reproductive effort in the more competitive treatments. Furthermore, interactions were more costly for females when they were in the subordinate role than in the dominant role, because the reduction in growth and reproductive effort was highest in females exposed to larger competitors. Whether there was a differential allocation of resources into growth and reproduction depending on dominance status needs further investigation. However, in general, smaller females had a higher growth rate than larger females, independent of competitive level. We also found a negative relationship between reproduction and growth in all treatments, indicating a cost of reproduction.
Frost Hardiness Expression and Characterisation in Wheat at Ear Emergence
Authors: Al‐Issawi M. , Rihan H. Z. , El‐Sarkassy N. , Fuller M. P.
Published: June 2012

Occasionally, wheat can be exposed to overnight freezing temperatures whilst it is in the early reproductive stage and considerable frost damage can occur. In the vegetative stage, full expression of frost tolerance genes can be gained when plants are exposed to acclimation temperatures (4 °C). Paradoxically, wheat during flowering has limited or no ability to effectively acclimate or re‐acclimate and it demonstrates frost sensitivity during this stage. Using a combined approach involving infrared thermography and molecular analysis, the causes and effects of frost‐induced damage to wheat during ear emergence were investigated. It was demonstrated that frost damage only occurs to wheat ears if the temperature falls below −5 °C but some ears, and some spikelets on frozen ears do not freeze but supercool and escape freezing. In whole plant freezing experiments, spikelets showed both complete and partial sterility upon maturation and this was linked to parallel infrared observation of detached ears showing full or partial freezing of spikelets. It was hypothesised that wherever spikelet freezing occurred the spikelet was sterile and grain production per ear was drastically reduced, and in contrary, spikelet survival was as a result of supercooling. Molecular analysis of the upregulation of Cbf14 showed that as ear emergence progressed the ability to induce Cbf14 decreased but at early stages of ear emergence Cbf14 was able to be induced by exposure to acclimating temperatures (4 °C). The hypothesis that the lack of the ear to acclimate is because of the incapability to induce the CBF transcription factor was only partially upheld in this investigation. Further work is needed to elucidate more precisely the molecular incompetency for the acclimation of wheat during ear emergence.
Developmental Dynamics and Early Growth Vigour in Rice 2. Modelling Genetic Diversity Using Ecomeristem
Authors: Luquet D. , Soulié J. C. , Rebolledo M. C. , Rouan L. , Clément‐Vidal A. , Dingkuhn M.
Published: June 2012

Early vigour is an important objective in rice breeding. A previous study reported strong positive effects of development rate (DR, 1/phyllochron) on early growth vigour in two rice panels. This study provided a model‐based analysis of DR effects on rice early vigour and underlying source–sink processes during exponential growth, using Ecomeristem model. Relevant model parameters were fitted to panel observations, and their effect on early vigour was quantified. A sensitivity analysis was performed to quantify the impact of model parameters on simulation outputs. The simulated behaviour of a population of virtual genotypes defined by the combination of model parameter values was compared with that of diversity panel. Finally, a simulation experiment was conducted to analyse source–sink adjustments constituting early vigour across a range of DR. Parameters governing structural development, particularly DR, had greater impact on vigour than parameters for resource acquisition. High DR was associated with rapid dry weight accumulation and low transitory carbohydrate reserves in both real and virtual populations. Genotypic DR is thus a major driver of early vigour in rice under stress‐free conditions. To evaluate traits contributing to vigour, the capacity of crop models to simulate interactions between structural development and resource acquisition must be improved.
Simple method of <100% oxygen resuscitation for preterm infants
Authors: Nuntnarumit Pracha , Phummaphuti Piyawan , Tangnoo Archara
Published: June 2012

Background:  The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of 50–60% oxygen resuscitation by a simple method using a self‐inflation bag without oxygen reservoir for positive pressure ventilation (PPV) or using a constant distance and flow rate for blow‐by oxygen.

Methods:  Newborn infants ≤35 weeks gestational age were eligible. Infants requiring PPV were initiated with bag‐mask PPV without oxygen reservoir. Nearly 100% oxygen was given by attaching oxygen reservoir if heart rate < 100 beats/min after PPV for 90 s or SpO2 < 75% at 3 min. For those requiring blow‐by oxygen, oxygen flow 5 L/min via facemask was given 5 cm from the nose. Almost 100% oxygen was given by close‐fitting facemask to nose if SpO2 < 80% at 5 min.

Results:  Ninety‐one infants were eligible; 67 of them required resuscitation. Thirty‐five infants required PPV; 27 (77.1%) responded to bag‐mask PPV without oxygen reservoir. For 32 infants requiring blow‐by oxygen, 28 (87.5%) reached the targeted SpO2. No significant differences in clinical outcomes were observed between responders and non‐responders.

Conclusions:  The technique of <100% oxygen supplementation was effective for preterm newborn resuscitation with a high success rate. This technique may be useful for a limited‐resource setting.
Multi‐species distribution modelling highlights the Adelaide Geosyncline, South Australia, as an important continental‐scale arid‐zone refugium
Authors: GUERIN GREG R. , LOWE ANDREW J.
Published: June 2012

The mainland portion of the Adelaide Geosyncline (Mount Lofty and Flinders Ranges) has been postulated as an important arid‐zone climate refugium for Australia. To test the sensitivity of this putative Australian arid biome refugium to contemporary climate change, we compared Generalized Additive Modelling and MaxEnt distribution models for 20 vascular plant species. We aimed to identify shared patterns to inform priority areas for management. Models based on current climate were projected onto a hypothetical 2050 climate with a 1.5°C increase in temperature and 8% decrease in rainfall. Individual comparisons and combined outputs of logistic models for all 20 species showed range contraction to shared refugia in the Flinders Ranges and southern Mount Lofty Ranges. Modelling suggests the Flinders Ranges will experience species turnover while suitable climatic habitat will be retained in the Mount Lofty Ranges for the current suite of species. Fragmentation of the southern Mount Lofty Ranges poses management challenges for conserving species diversity with warming and drying. Although projected models must be interpreted carefully, they suggest the region will remain an important but threatened refugium for mesic species at a continental scale.
Does the location of colorectal carcinoma differ between screened and unscreened populations?
Authors: Mackay C. D. , Ramsay G. , Rafferty A. , Loudon M. A.
Published: June 2012

Aim  Screening for colorectal malignancy using faecal occult blood testing is established across the UK. In NHS Grampian the programme was introduced in 2007. Previous studies have reported no difference in anatomical locations of cancers detected by screening programmes compared with those in unscreened populations. This study aims to review the location of tumours detected in an established screening programme compared with those diagnosed through symptomatic presentation within the same population.

Method  All patients discussed at the regional multidisciplinary meeting between June 2007 and August 2011 were included. Data were collated prospectively from multidisciplinary team records while site of tumour was documented from radiology, endoscopy, operative and pathology reports. Comparative statistics (χ2) were performed using spss 19.

Results  Of 1487 patients included 255 were detected via the screening programme and 1232 from symptomatic presentation. More left sided tumours (splenic flexure to rectosigmoid) were detected via screening (P = 0.005). Of non‐screened patients (n = 1232), 456 (37%) tumours were right sided (caecum to distal transverse colon), 419 (34%) were left sided and 357 (29%) were in the rectum. This compares with the screened group (n = 255): right sided 74 (29%), left sided 113 (44%) and rectal 68 (27%).

Conclusion  More left sided tumours appear to be detected in screened patients compared with symptomatic presentation, contrary to previously published work. These results may be worthy of further consideration given the ongoing debate on the optimal means of screening.
Effect of anti‐IL‐1β antibody (canakinumab) on insulin secretion rates in impaired glucose tolerance or type 2 diabetes: results of a randomized, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Rissanen A. , Howard C. P. , Botha J. , Thuren T. ,   for the Global Investigators
Published: June 2012

Aims

Evaluate anti‐interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) antibody, canakinumab, in patients with type 2 diabetes and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) in whom hyperglycaemia may trigger IL‐1β‐associated inflammation leading to suppressed insulin secretion and β‐cell dysfunction.

Methods

This 4‐week, parallel‐group study randomized 190 patients with type 2 diabetes 2 : 1, canakinumab versus placebo, into the following treatment arms: metformin monotherapy, metformin + sulfonylurea, metformin + sulfonylurea + thiazolidinedione or insulin ± metformin. IGT population (n = 54) was randomized 1 : 1, canakinumab versus placebo. Primary efficacy assessment was change from baseline in insulin secretion rate (ISR) relative to glucose 0–2 h.

Results

Mean changes from baseline to week 4 in ISR relative to glucose at 0–2 h or other time points were not statistically significant for canakinumab versus placebo across groups. ISR (relative to glucose) at 0–0.5 h (first‐phase insulin secretion) numerically favoured canakinumab versus placebo in insulin‐treated patients {difference in mean change from baseline [point estimate (PE)] 3.81 pmol/min/m2/mmol/l; p = 0.0525} and in the IGT group (PE 3.92 pmol/min/m2/mmol/l; p = 0.1729). Mean change from baseline in fasting plasma glucose favoured canakinumab in the type 2 diabetes/metformin group and the IGT group; however, differences were not statistically significant. Mean change from baseline in peak insulin level and insulin AUC 0–4 h were statistically significantly higher in the canakinumab group in IGT patients. Canakinumab was well tolerated and consistent with known safety experience.

Conclusions

The trend towards improving ISR relative to glucose 0–0.5 h in patients treated with insulin supports the hypothesis that insulin secretion can be improved by blocking IL‐1β.
Nerve‐sparing approach during radical prostatectomy is strongly associated with the rate of postoperative urinary continence recovery
Authors: Suardi Nazareno , Moschini Marco , Gallina Andrea , Gandaglia Giorgio , Abdollah Firas , Capitanio Umberto , Bianchi Marco , Tutolo Manuela , Passoni Niccolò , Salonia Andrea , Hedlund Petter , Rigatti Patrizio , Montorsi Francesco , Briganti Alberto
Published: June 2012

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction are the most bothersome sequelae affecting health‐related quality of life in patients treated with radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer. While it has been widely reported that a nerve‐sparing approach significantly improves postoperative erectile function, the impact of neurovascular bundle preservation on urinary continence recovery is still a matter of controversy.

Our study clearly demonstrates that patients treated with nerve‐sparing radical prostatectomy have higher chances of recovering full continence after surgery. The results indicate that, when technically and oncologically feasible, an attempt at a nerve‐sparing approach should be planned in order to increase the probability of achieving full continence after radical prostatectomy.

Objective

To demonstrate that nerve‐sparing radical prostatectomy (NSRP) is associated with higher rates of urinary continence (UC) recovery compared with non‐nerve‐sparing procedures in patients with surgically treated organ‐confined prostate cancer.

Patients and Methods

The study included 1249 patients treated with radical prostatectomy between 2003 and 2010. Patients were divided into three preoperative risk groups: low (PSA < 10 ng/mL, cT1, biopsy Gleason sum ≤6), high (cT3 or biopsy Gleason 8–10 or PSA > 20 ng/mL) and intermediate (all the remaining).

Postoperative UC recovery was defined as the absence of any protection device.

The association between nerve‐sparing status and UC recovery was assessed in univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses after accounting for age at surgery, Charlson Comorbidity Index and preoperative risk group.

Results

At a mean follow‐up of 42.2 months (range 1–78), 993 patients (79.5%) recovered UC. Overall, UC recovery rate at 1 and 2 years was 76% and 79%, respectively.

On univariable Cox regression analysis, age at surgery, preoperative risk group, medical comorbidities and nerve‐sparing status were significantly associated with UC recovery (all P ≤ 0.001).

On multivariable analysis, age, risk group and nerve‐sparing status were also independently associated with UC recovery (all P < 0.003). Patients treated with bilateral NSRP had a 1.8‐fold higher chance of full UC recovery.

Conclusions

Patients treated with bilateral NSRP have significantly higher chances of recovering full continence.

Therefore, when oncologically and technically feasible, a nerve‐sparing procedure should be attempted.
A cohort study reporting clinical risk factors and individual risk perceptions of prostate cancer: implications for PSA testing
Authors: Forbat Liz , Place Morag , Kelly Daniel , Hubbard Gill , Boyd Kenny , Howie Kate , Leung Hing Y.
Published: June 2012

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Prostate cancer has three known clinical risk factors: age, ethnicity and family history. Men's knowledge of prostate cancer is low.

This study demonstrates that men rely on family and friends to learn about prostate cancer and help them interpret their risk. The findings suggest the need for tailored prostate cancer education, through social networks, to encourage risk‐stratified PSA testing, which will lead to earlier diagnosis for those most at risk.

Objectives

To determine men's perceptions of their risk of developing prostate cancer.

To consider the implications for PSA testing based on individual risk perceptions.

Patients and Methods

The research adopted an embedded mixed‐method design, using clinical records and a retrospective postal survey.

Patients (N = 474) diagnosed with prostate cancer in a two‐year period (2008–2009) in Greater Glasgow were identified from pathology records.

In all, 458 men received a postal survey (16 deceased patients were excluded); 320 men responded (70%).

Results

Analysis indicates that there is no association between known clinical risk factors and men's perceptions of their own risk.

Older men did not display increased perceived risk. Men with a family history of prostate cancer (11%) had no increase in their own perception of risk.

PSA tests are not requested by those who are at greater risk.

The subsample of patients who had requested a test were no more likely to have a family history of prostate cancer. They were more likely, however, to perceive themselves to be at high risk, to have friends with prostate cancer, to be affluent and to have a low grade tumour.

Conclusions

GPs need to balance men's risk perceptions in discussions about known clinical risk factors.

Men's knowledge of prostate cancer stems largely from interpersonal sources (such as friends/family).

Social networks may consequently offer an additional opportunity to increase awareness of risk‐stratified testing.
Can harms associated with high‐intensity drinking be reduced by increasing the price of alcohol?
Authors: Byrnes Joshua , Shakeshaft Anthony , Petrie Dennis , Doran Christopher
Published: June 2012

Introduction and Aims

Increasing the price of alcohol is consistently shown to reduce the average level of consumption. However, the evidence for the effect of increasing the price on high‐intensity drinking is both limited and equivocal. The aim of this analysis is to estimate the effect of changes in price on patterns of consumption.

Design and Methods

Self‐reported patterns of alcohol consumption and demographic data were obtained from the Australian National Drug Strategy Household Surveys, conducted in 2001, 2004 and 2007. A pooled three‐stage least‐squares estimator was used to simultaneously model the impact of the price on the frequency (measured in days) of consuming no, low, moderate and high quantities of alcohol.

Results

A 1% increase in the price of alcohol was associated with a statistically significant increase of 6.41 days per year on which no alcohol is consumed (P ≤ 0.049), and a statistically significant decrease of 7.30 days on which 1–4 standard drinks are consumed (P ≤ 0.021). There was no statistically significant change for high or moderate‐intensity drinking.

Conclusions

For Australia, and countries with a similar pattern of predominant high‐intensity drinking, taxation policies that increase the price of alcohol and are very efficient at decreasing harms associated with reduced average consumption may be relatively inefficient at decreasing alcohol harms associated with high‐intensity drinking.
Modelling the nonlinear time dynamics of multidimensional hormonal systems
Authors: Keenan Daniel M. , Wang Xin , Pincus Steven M. , Veldhuis Johannes D.
Published: June 2012

In most hormonal systems (as well as many physiological systems more generally), the chemical signals from the brain, which drive much of the dynamics, cannot be observed in humans. By the time the molecules reach peripheral blood, they have been so diluted so as to not be assayable. It is not possible to invasively (surgically) measure these agents in the brain. This creates a difficult situation in terms of assessing whether or not the dynamics may have changed due to disease or ageing. Moreover, most biological feedforward and feedback interactions occur after time delays, and the time delays need to be properly estimated. We address the following two questions: (i) Is it possible to devise a combination of clinical experiments by which, via exogenous inputs, the hormonal system can be perturbed to new steady‐states in such a way that information about the unobserved components can be ascertained; and (ii) Can one devise methods to estimate (possibly, time‐varying) time delays between components of a multidimensional nonlinear time series, which are more robust than traditional methods? We present methods for both questions, using the Stress (ACTH–cortisol) hormonal system as a prototype, but the approach is more broadly applicable.
A mixed INAR(p) model
Authors: Ristić Miroslav M. , Nastić Aleksandar S.
Published: June 2012

A mixed integer‐valued autoregressive model of order p is proposed. The existence of this unique, stationary and ergodic process is proved and its autocorrelation structure and some conditional stochastic characteristics are derived. Model parameters are estimated via Yule‐Walker, conditional least squares and conditional maximum likelihood methods. Finally, possible application of the model to real data sets is considered.
What is Absolute Undecidability?†
Authors: Clarke‐Doane Justin
Published: June 2012

It is often alleged that, unlike typical axioms of mathematics, the Continuum Hypothesis (CH) is indeterminate. This position is normally defended on the ground that the CH is undecidable in a way that typical axioms are not. Call this kind of undecidability “absolute undecidability”. In this paper, I seek to understand what absolute undecidability could be such that one might hope to establish that (a) CH is absolutely undecidable, (b) typical axioms are not absolutely undecidable, and (c) if a mathematical hypothesis is absolutely undecidable, then it is indeterminate. I shall argue that on no understanding of absolute undecidability could one hope to establish all of (a)–(c). However, I will identify one understanding of absolute undecidability on which one might hope to establish both (a) and (c) to the exclusion of (b). This suggests that a new style of mathematical antirealism deserves attention—one that does not depend on familiar epistemological or ontological concerns. The key idea behind this view is that typical mathematical hypotheses are indeterminate because they are relevantly similar to CH.
Routes Out of Prison Using Life Coaches to Assist Resettlement
Authors: Schinkel Marguerite , Whyte Bill
Published: June 2012

Scotland is undertaking one of its biggest penal reforms in a generation and is seeking a fundamental change to its approach to punishment, which is characterised by the use of very short prison sentences. This article discusses some findings from phase one of an ongoing evaluation study of Routes out of Prison (RooP) which uses Life Coaches, many of whom are themselves former prisoners, to support the transition and resettlement of large numbers of short‐term prisoners back to the community. The article examines the way in which these Life Coaches were recruited and managed, how they were viewed by their clients, and the added value that peer or mentor support can offer.
Human Resource Management’s Effects on Firm‐Level Relative Efficiency
Authors: CHADWICK CLINT , AHN JI‐YOUNG , KWON KIWOOK
Published: June 2012

Using stochastic frontier production functions methodology with data from 1579 private‐sector establishments, we demonstrate that HR practices are significantly associated with differences in relative firm‐level efficiency. Supplemental analysis implies that this efficiency analysis is substantively different than the common approach to evaluating HRM’s relationships with firm‐level labor productivity. The results suggest that HR practices’ contributions to relative firm‐level efficiency are an important but heretofore overlooked factor in the relationship between HRM and firm performance.
Tax Progression under Collective Wage Bargaining and Individual Effort Determination
Authors: KOSKELA ERKKI , SCHÖB RONNIE
Published: June 2012

We study the impact of tax policy on wage negotiations, workers’ effort, employment, output, and welfare under imperfectly observable effort. A higher degree of tax progression always leads to wage moderation, but the well‐established result from the wage bargaining literature that a revenue‐neutral increase in the degree of tax progression is good for employment does not carry over to the case with wage negotiations and imperfectly observable effort. Introducing tax progression increases employment and output, but we cannot rule out that the negative effort effect of increasing tax progression will lead employment to fall when tax progression is already high.
Social protection as a mechanism for family protection in sub‐Saharan Africa1
Authors: Mokomane Zitha
Published: June 2012

Mokomane Z. Social protection as a mechanism for family protection in sub‐Saharan Africa

In sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA), the extended family has for generations been the basis for the sustenance of society, offering material, social, emotional and care‐giving support for its members in times of need and crisis. Over the years, however, this institution has been affected by demographic and socio‐economic transformations that have continued to take place in the region. This article illustrates how these changes have contributed to family circumstances that are characterised by economic fragility, debilitating poverty and weakened family support for household chores and care‐giving responsibilities. The article argues that the development and provision of more comprehensive social protection policies and programmes in SSA can help mitigate the impact of the changes on families and their members.
Person and Being: Conversation with T.F. Torrance about the Monarchy of God
Authors: Dean Benjamin
Published: June 2012

In whom is the unified rule of God centred? Does ultimate determination and authority reside with God the Father or is supreme power shared equally by the Father, Son and Holy Spirit? T.F. Torrance's conception of a triune Monarchy, with its differentiated senses of God's Fatherhood, is here expounded and contrasted with Karl Barth's account of command and obedience as integral to God's eternal Being. A brief exegetical study in the Fourth Gospel is also undertaken to seek clarification. The main strengths of Torrance's view are reckoned the unqualified divinity of the Son and Spirit, and their full participation together with the Father in all God's ways and works. A weakness is identified, however, in an under‐determination of the Father's fatherliness. Resolution is then pursued in terms of Person and Being. Although Torrance makes wide‐ranging use of these terms, he does not appear to employ them sufficiently regarding the Monarchy. It is subsequently argued that with respect to Person God the Father is Monarch, while with respect to Being the Three share the Monarchy of God equally and eternally.
Baptism, Faith and Severe Cognitive Impairment in Some Medieval Theologies
Authors: Cross Richard
Published: June 2012

Thirteenth‐century theologians believed that grace and theological virtues count as created habits, infused by God. They held that this belief placed them in a stronger position to give an account of the grace given to those with severe cognitive impairments than those who denied such habits. Aquinas argued that the faith infused in baptism, in the case of those who lack reason, nevertheless needs to be supplemented by other church members' actual occurrent assent to the Christian faith. Duns Scotus gives reasons to deny this, and thus defends a view of church membership that avoids any kind of non‐mutual dependence in this context.
How to read The Red Book and why
Authors: Stein Murray
Published: June 2012

Abstract:  The Red Book can be, and is, read in a variety of ways and used for different purposes. Here I propose to view it from the perspectives of three contexts: the personal and biographical one, a literary one and a cultural and religious one. Each of these viewpoints exposes different, but (in each case) important, features and meanings. Composing Liber Novus clearly had great significance for Jung's own personal individuation process. In studying this work, the reader must keep in mind that Jung had a great many predecessors in view and looking over his shoulder as he composed it. The text reveals that he was in dialogue with a vast number of cultural figures from the near and the far past. It is also a foundational text for Jung's later works in psychology. And it addresses large cultural and historical issues, looking back at traditions from the standpoint of modernity and forward toward what is to come collectively in the near and distant future. His creation was a work for himself, but also for the culture and for the ages. I try to understand what the title Liber Novus means and suggest that it represents an intention of attaining to a rank beyond being a ‘new book’ for only one man, Carl Gustav Jung, to being a work relevant to humanity as a totality.
The Red Book from a pre‐modern perspective: the position of the ego, sacrifice and the dead
Authors: Kawai Toshio
Published: June 2012

Abstract: This paper tries to investigate The Red Book from a pre‐modern point of view especially with reference to a Japanese cultural and clinical perspective. In spite of overwhelming contents from the unconscious, the position of the ego is remarkable as a formal aspect throughout The Red Book. The ego manifests itself as a stable observing agency which results in clear images. In the case of Japan, visions are historically rare because of the much more vague position of the ego. While in Liber Primus the ego manifests itself via suffering and tragedy, in Liber Secundus it has more distance and humour, and takes the form of comedy. Mythological images are internalized as fantasy in Liber Secundus. So the rebirth of God does not need to be performed literally but by way of internalization, which is the origin of Jungian psychology. In its substantial aspect, the references in The Red Book to pre‐modern cultural images of sacrifice and redemption of the dead are impressive. The sacrifice may suggest that the numinous cannot be experienced as ritual and symbol but necessitates direct violence and sexuality.