bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A systematic review of gender‐specific rates of unipolar and bipolar disorders in community studies of pre‐pubertal children
Authors: Douglas Jessica , Scott Jan
Published: December 2013

Objectives

Gender‐specific rates of unipolar and bipolar disorders are well established for cases with post‐pubertal onset. However, there is less certainty about these rates in pre‐pubertal children. We undertook a systematic review of community studies that report gender‐specific rates for unipolar and bipolar disorders in young children, particularly cases of major depression and mania.

Method

Computer databases (Medline,EMBASE, Index to Theses, and PsychInfo) were searched for non‐clinical observational studies using recognized diagnostic criteria to identify unipolar and bipolar disorders in children aged ≤12 years. A meta‐analysis was undertaken to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) for caseness for major depression by gender. The limited data on bipolar disorder were summarized.

Results

Analysis of 12 studies (>15,000 children), indicated that the community prevalence of unipolar disorders was higher in boys (1.3%) than in girls (0.8%). Rates of major depression were low (0.61%), but boys were significantly more likely to meet diagnostic criteria than girls (OR = 1.61; 95% confidence interval: 1.11–2.35). Five studies, assessing >5,000 children, identified only one case with a probable diagnosis of mania.

Conclusions

This systematic review suggests that boys aged ≤12 years are significantly more likely to experience major depression than girls. However, in younger children, community rates of major depression are low, and it is frequently suggested (but not proven) that most cases are comorbid. The absence of mania suggests either that childhood bipolar phenotypes do not resemble post‐pubertal onset cases or that there are problems of case ascertainment.
Semiparametric Bayesian commensurate survival model for post‐market medical device surveillance with non‐exchangeable historical data
Authors: Murray Thomas A. , Hobbs Brian P. , Lystig Theodore C. , Carlin Bradley P.
Published: December 2013

Trial investigators often have a primary interest in the estimation of the survival curve in a population for which there exists acceptable historical information from which to borrow strength. However, borrowing strength from a historical trial that is non‐exchangeable with the current trial can result in biased conclusions. In this article we propose a fully Bayesian semiparametric method for the purpose of attenuating bias and increasing efficiency when jointly modeling time‐to‐event data from two possibly non‐exchangeable sources of information. We illustrate the mechanics of our methods by applying them to a pair of post‐market surveillance datasets regarding adverse events in persons on dialysis that had either a bare metal or drug‐eluting stent implanted during a cardiac revascularization surgery. We finish with a discussion of the advantages and limitations of this approach to evidence synthesis, as well as directions for future work in this area. The article's Supplementary Materials offer simulations to show our procedure's bias, mean squared error, and coverage probability properties in a variety of settings.
Children's and adults' understanding of the impact of nutrition on biological and psychological processes
Authors: Raman Lakshmi
Published: December 2013

Four studies examined children's and adults' beliefs about the impact of nutrition on growth and mood states. In Studies 1 and 2, 271 participants (preschoolers through adults) judged the impact of healthy and unhealthy nutrition on height and weight. In Studies 3 and 4, 267 participants judged the impact of healthy and unhealthy nutrition on positive and negative mood states. The results suggest that young children demonstrate a co‐existence of an ontologically distinct theory of biology as well as a theory of cross‐domain interaction when reasoning about the impact of food on biological and psychological processes.
Association of quantitative assessment of the intrafollicular proliferation index with outcome in follicular lymphoma
Authors: Kedmi Meirav , Hedvat Cyrus V. , Maragulia Jocelyn , Zhang Zhigang , Zelenetz Andrew D.
Published: December 2013

The role of the proliferation index (PI) as an outcome predictor in follicular lymphoma (FL) isn't clear. We have previously demonstrated that quantitative image analysis (QIA) is a robust tool for PI determination and the present study aimed to determine the significance of the PI for outcome in low‐grade FL. One hundred and twenty‐nine patients with grade 1–2 FL were retrospectively analysed. Slides were scanned digitally and follicle/tumour‐involved areas were annotated. The intrafollicular PI was estimated by analysing a median of 10 follicles per case. Patients were divided into two groups: PI < 30%, PI ≥ 30% and clinical outcome was analysed. Among the 129 patients analysed, intrafollicular PI ranged from 0·6 to 63·2% with a median of 23·3%. Overall survival was not influenced by PI group. Among those patients initially observed, intrafollicular PI < 30% was associated with longer time to first therapy compared to patients with a PI ≥ 30%. In the group of patients that were treated at diagnosis, PI was not predictive of time to treatment failure (TTTF). Intrafollicular PI is an important predicator of TTFT for patients who are candidates for observation. Further confirmation in an independent cohort of patients is necessary to determine the clinical validity of the results.
No altitude‐dependent effects of climatic signals are recorded in Smith fir tree‐ring δ18O on the southeastern Tibetan Plateau, despite a shift in tree growth
Authors: Zeng Xiaomin , Liu Xiaohong , Wang Wenzhi , Xu Guobao , An Wenling , Wu Guoju
Published: December 2013

To reveal the influence of current warming on tree growth and δ18O in a sensitive high‐latitude region that is undergoing rapid climate change, we examined tree width and the earlywood and latewood δ18O at two sites with a 400‐m elevation difference in the Sygera Mountains of the southeastern Tibetan Plateau. The study period was from 1950 to 2011. The mean tree‐ring index at the low site was higher than that at the high site during the study period. The climatic responses of earlywood and latewood δ18O at both sites were similar. Earlywood δ18O was mainly influenced by the June to August temperature and total cloud cover, whereas latewood δ18O was mainly controlled by relative humidity from July to August. Spatial correlations with CRU TS 3.1 regional data suggest that our δ18O chronologies can represent climatic changes over large regions. The high offset between earlywood δ18O at the two sites (2.3‰ higher at the low site) was mainly influenced by the high temperature lapse rate as a function of altitude during the earlywood growing season. Furthermore, meltwater with lower δ18O values might have affected earlywood δ18O at the high site, and thereby increased the earlywood δ18O offset between two sites. The low latewood δ18O offset between the two sites (0.4‰ higher at the low site) was not significant, but appears to have been primarily influenced by the low precipitation δ18O lapse rate as a function of altitude during the latewood growing season. Earlywood δ18O of Smith fir suitable for reconstructing past temperatures and latewood δ18O suitable for reconstructing past relative humidity on the southeastern Tibetan Plateau were identified.
Time Line Cell Tracking for the Approximation of Lagrangian Coherent Structures with Subgrid Accuracy
Authors: Kuhn A. , Engelke W. , Rössl C. , Hadwiger M. , Theisel H.
Published: December 2013

Lagrangian coherent structures (LCSs) have become a widespread and powerful method to describe dynamic motion patterns in time‐dependent flow fields. The standard way to extract LCS is to compute height ridges in the finite‐time Lyapunov exponent field. In this work, we present an alternative method to approximate Lagrangian features for 2D unsteady flow fields that achieve subgrid accuracy without additional particle sampling. We obtain this by a geometric reconstruction of the flow map using additional material constraints for the available samples. In comparison to the standard method, this allows for a more accurate global approximation of LCS on sparse grids and for long integration intervals. The proposed algorithm works directly on a set of given particle trajectories and without additional flow map derivatives. We demonstrate its application for a set of computational fluid dynamic examples, as well as trajectories acquired by Lagrangian methods, and discuss its benefits and limitations.
Same‐day assessment and management of urgent (2‐week wait) colorectal referrals: an analysis of the outcome of 1606 patients attending an endoscopy unit‐based colorectal clinic
Authors: Royle T. J. , Ferguson H. J. M. , Mak T. W. C. , Simpson J. A. , Thumbe V. , Bhalerao S.
Published: December 2013

Aim

The Rapid Access Diagnosis and Remedy (RADAR) clinic combines 2‐week wait (TWW) specialist consultation with ‘straight‐to‐test’ flexible sigmoidoscopy (FS) for left‐sided ‘red‐flag’ TWW criteria (excluding right‐sided mass or iron‐deficiency anaemia). The study aims were to determine the effectiveness of RADAR in differentiating colorectal cancer from benign disease and to evaluate the need for whole colonic investigation (WCI) following FS, in symptomatic patients.

Method

Prospectively collated data of all RADAR patients from November 2005 to November 2009 were analysed, excluding patients referred internally for a FS. The local histology database was later interrogated to detect any missed cancers.

Results

Of 1690 patients (729 men; median (range) age: 68 (18–96) years) assessed in RADAR, 84 were excluded. Colorectal cancer (CRC) was diagnosed in 117 (7.3%). Eighty‐seven cancers were diagnosed on the day of attendance and a further 13 within a week (88.9% overall). Two patients after a cancer‐free FS were found to have a right‐sided CRC on WCI (0.24%) and one synchronous cancer was found. No patient with a cancer‐free FS having a WCI was subsequently found to have CRC at a median of 35 (12–58) months.

Conclusion

Flexible sigmoidoscopy, in the context of an endoscopy unit TWW clinic, allows same‐day diagnosis of most patients referred with left‐sided symptoms, and immediate reassurance and treatment of most benign diagnoses. For these patients, the use of routine WCI following a cancer‐free FS does not appear to be beneficial. Adopting this system would significantly reduce the number of barium enemas and colonoscopies currently performed.
Effect of very low‐intensity resistance training with slow movement on muscle size and strength in healthy older adults
Authors: Watanabe Yuya , Madarame Haruhiko , Ogasawara Riki , Nakazato Koichi , Ishii Naokata
Published: December 2013

We previously reported that low‐intensity [50% of one repetition maximum (1RM)] resistance training with slow movement and tonic force generation (LST) causes muscle hypertrophy and strength gain in older participants. The aim of this study was to determine whether resistance training with slow movement and much more reduced intensity (30%1RM) increases muscle size and strength in older adults. Eighteen participants (60–77 years) were randomly assigned to two groups. One group performed very low‐intensity (30% 1RM) knee extension exercise with continuous muscle contraction (LST: 3‐s eccentric, 3‐s concentric, and 1‐s isometric actions with no rest between each repetition) twice a week for 12 weeks. The other group underwent intermitted muscle contraction (CON: 1‐s concentric and 1‐s eccentric actions with 1‐s rest between each repetition) for the same time period. The 1RM, isometric and isokinetic strengths, and cross‐sectional image of the mid‐thigh obtained by magnetic resonance imaging were examined before and after the intervention. LST significantly increased the cross‐sectional area of the quadriceps muscle (5·0%, P<0·001) and isometric and isokinetic knee extension strengths (P<0·05). CON failed to increase muscle size (1·1%, P = 0·12), but significantly improved its strength (P<0·05). These results indicate that even if the intensity is as low as 30% 1RM, LST can increase muscle size and strength in healthy older adults. The large total contraction time may be related to muscle hypertrophy and strength gain. LST would be useful for preventing sarcopenia in older individuals.
Update on narrow band imaging in disorders of the upper gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Singh Rajvinder , Lee Shok Y. , Vijay Nimal , Sharma Prateek , Uedo Noriya
Published: December 2013

With the ever‐increasing concern regarding morbidity and mortality associated with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, the importance of an effective and efficient diagnostic tool cannot be overstated. The standard of care currently is an examination using conventional white light endoscopy. This approach may occasionally overlook areas exhibiting a premalignant change. Numerous image‐enhanced modalities have been recently introduced. Narrow band imaging (NBI) appears to be the most prominent of these and perhaps the most commonly used. Thepresent review will focus on some of the newer studies on NBI and its utility in the diagnosis of malignant, pre‐malignant and chronic inflammatory conditions of the upper gastrointestinal tract.
Egg development of Plecoptera, Ephemeroptera and Odonata along latitudinal gradients
Authors: ROTVIT LENNIE , JACOBSEN DEAN
Published: December 2013

Interest in the effect of temperature on ecophysiological processes is growing. Using published data, a meta‐analysis was carried out on the influence of temperature on duration of egg development of the aquatic insect orders Plecoptera, Ephemeroptera and Odonata in relation to latitudinal compensation. The aim was to test the hypotheses on thermal adaptation and countergradient variation.

The orders showed considerable differences in the response to temperatures along latitudinal gradients. Duration of egg development in Ephemeroptera and Plecoptera was negatively related to latitude at 15, 20 and 25 °C, and 5, 15, and 20 °C, respectively. This is interpreted as compensation for short summer seasons at high latitudes, a result that is in line with the countergradient variation hypothesis.

In contrast, the results for Odonata supported neither the thermal adaptation nor the countergradient variation hypothesis. Odonate eggs from higher latitudes developed more slowly than those from lower latitudes at 20 and 25 °C. It is likely that the high‐latitude odonates have more time for eggs to develop, despite the shorter season, because the potential time constraint that lies in producing more generations per year at lower latitudes may override the effect of seasonal constraints at higher latitudes.
Connexin36 in gap junctions forming electrical synapses between motoneurons in sexually dimorphic motor nuclei in spinal cord of rat and mouse
Authors: Bautista W. , Nagy J. I.
Published: December 2013

Pools of motoneurons in the lumbar spinal cord innervate the sexually dimorphic perineal musculature, and are themselves sexually dimorphic, showing differences in number and size between male and female rodents. In two of these pools, the dorsomedial nucleus (DMN) and the dorsolateral nucleus (DLN), dimorphic motoneurons are intermixed with non‐dimorphic neurons innervating anal and external urethral sphincter muscles. As motoneurons in these nuclei are reportedly linked by gap junctions, we examined immunofluorescence labeling for the gap junction‐forming protein connexin36 (Cx36) in male and female mice and rats. Fluorescent Cx36‐labeled puncta occurred in distinctly greater amounts in the DMN and DLN of male rodents than in other spinal cord regions. These puncta were localized to motoneuron somata, proximal dendrites, and neuronal appositions, and were distributed either as isolated or large patches of puncta. In both rats and mice, Cx36‐labeled puncta were associated with nearly all (> 94%) DMN and DLN motoneurons. The density of Cx36‐labeled puncta increased dramatically from postnatal days 9 to 15, unlike the developmental decreases in these puncta observed in other central nervous system regions. In females, Cx36 labeling of puncta in the DLN was similar to that in males, but was sparse in the DMN. In enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)–Cx36 transgenic mice, motoneurons in the DMN and DLN were intensely labeled for the EGFP reporter in males, but less so in females. The results indicate the presence of Cx36‐containing gap junctions in the sexually dimorphic DMN and DLN of both male and female rodents, suggesting coupling of not only sexually dimorphic but also non‐dimorphic motoneurons in these nuclei.
Simultaneous inbreeding modifies inbreeding depression in a plant–herbivore interaction
Authors: Kalske Aino , Mutikainen Pia , Muola Anne , Scheepens J. F. , Laukkanen Liisa , Salminen Juha‐Pekka , Leimu Roosa
Published: December 2013

Because inbreeding is common in natural populations of plants and their herbivores, herbivore‐induced selection on plants, and vice versa, may be significantly modified by inbreeding and inbreeding depression. In a feeding assay with inbred and outbred lines of both the perennial herb, Vincetoxicum hirundinaria, and its specialist herbivore, Abrostola asclepiadis, we discovered that plant inbreeding increased inbreeding depression in herbivore performance in some populations. The effect of inbreeding on plant resistance varied among plant and herbivore populations. The among‐population variation is likely to be driven by variation in plant secondary compounds across populations. In addition, inbreeding depression in plant resistance was substantial when herbivores were outbred, but diminished when herbivores were inbred. These findings demonstrate that in plant–herbivore interactions expression of inbreeding depression can depend on the level of inbreeding of the interacting species. Furthermore, our results suggest that when herbivores are inbred, herbivore‐induced selection against self‐fertilisation in plants may diminish.
Risk factors associated with gastrointestinal dysfunction in horses undergoing elective procedures under general anaesthesia
Authors: Nelson B. B. , Lordan E. E. , Hassel D. M.
Published: December 2013

Reasons for performing study

Gastrointestinal dysfunction occurs commonly following elective anaesthesia. Identification of risk factors may allow implementation of preventative measures to reduce the prevalence of colic following elective anaesthetic procedures.

Objectives

To examine risk factors associated with gastrointestinal dysfunction or post anaesthetic colic for horses undergoing elective surgical or diagnostic procedures under general anaesthesia.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Medical records were collected from adult horses undergoing general anaesthesia from 1January 2008 to 31December 2010 using a retrospective cohort design. Potential risk factors were examined using univariable logistic regression with a limit of aP<0.25. Through backward elimination, the final multivariate model was created to identify variables significantly associated with gastrointestinal dysfunction.

Results

Colic or delayed faecal output was reported in 36 out of 416 (8.7%) horses undergoing general anaesthesia in the study period. In the final multivariable model, horse breed (P= 0.05), intraoperative peripheral blood lactate (P= 0.02), right lateral recumbency during general anaesthesia (P= 0.04), post anaesthetic rectal temperature (P= 0.03) and hours to first passage of faeces (P<0.01) were statistically significant between horses that exhibited colic compared with those that did not. Arabians were more likely to develop colic compared with other horse breeds (4/13, 30.8%). Horses that exhibited gastrointestinal dysfunction passed faeces later than those that did not (7.2 ± 0.8 h and 5.4 ± 0.2 h, respectively). As blood lactate increased at the end of anaesthesia, the odds of colic occurring also increased (odds ratio:1.4, 95% confidence interval: 1.04–1.83,P= 0.02).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the prevalence of colic in horses undergoing elective general anaesthetic procedures in our hospital population. Arabian horses, increasing blood lactate and delayed passage of faeces were significantly associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal dysfunction.
The effects of ergot alkaloids on the breeding stallion reproductive system
Authors: Fayrer‐Hosken R. A. , Hill N. S. , Heusner G. L. , Traylor‐Wiggins W. , Turner K.
Published: December 2013

Reasons for performing study

Ergot alkaloids cause a range of pathological conditions in mares. There is no evaluation of the effects of ergot alkaloids from endophyte‐infected tall fescue on the stallion breeding soundness examination spermiogram.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of ergot alkaloids from endophyte‐infected tall fescue on the stallion's reproductive functions.

Study design

Crossover toxicology experiment.

Methods

Six stallions were fed either toxic endophyte‐infected tall fescue seed or a nontoxic endophyte tall fescue seed (FlechaAR‐542,MaxQ). The fescue seed content was compounded at 45% of a grain diet and the stallions were fed the grain diet at 1% of their body weight. The stallions were fed the diet for 70 days, then rested for at least 70 days (no fescue seed) and then fed fescue seed for a second 70 days. At regular intervals blood sampling and a breeding soundness examination were performed.

Results

The mean time to maximal systemic toxicity was 8.33 h after starting toxic seed ingestion with a mean toxicity level of 49.98 ng alkaloid/mg creatinine. After cessation of feeding toxic seed, the systemic alkaloid concentration fell to control levels within 48 h. There were no significant changes in sperm motility, sperm concentration, sperm cell morphology, total number of sperm cells, number of breeding doses, testicular volume, baseline and human chorionic gonadotropin stimulated testosterone levels. There were no changes in core body temperature and superficial scrotal temperature. The ejaculate from stallions consuming endophyte‐infected tall fescue seed had significantly lower gel‐free volume (47.5 ± 4.1 ml) than stallions consuming nontoxic endophyte tall fescue seed (62.8 + 4.3 ml,P<0.01).

Conclusion

Ergot alkaloids decreased the gel‐free volume of stallions consuming high levels of ergot alkaloids but statistically significant effects on the spermiogram of adult breeding stallions were not found.
Discovery of the neuroprotective effects of alvespimycin by computational prioritization of potential anti‐parkinson agents
Authors: Gao Li , Zhao Gang , Fang Jian‐Song , Yuan Tian‐Yi , Liu Ai‐Lin , Du Guan‐Hua
Published: December 2013

Based on public gene expression data, we propose a computational approach to optimize gene expression signatures for the use with Connectivity Map (CMap) to reposition drugs or discover lead compounds for Parkinson's disease. This approach integrates genetic information from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, the Parkinson's disease gene expression database (ParkDB), the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database and the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD), with the aim of identifying a set of interesting genes for use in computational drug screening via CMap. The results showed that CMap, using the top 20 differentially expressed genes identified by our approach as a gene expression signature, outperformed the same method using all differentially expressed genes (n = 535) as a signature. Utilizing this approach, the candidate compound alvespimycin (17‐DMAG) was selected for experimental evaluation in a model of rotenone‐induced toxicity in human SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells and isolated rat brain mitochondria. The results showed that 17‐DMAG significantly attenuated rotenone‐induced toxicity, as reflected by the increase of cell viability, the reduction of intracellular reactive oxygen species generation and a reduction in mitochondrial respiratory dysfunction. In conclusion, this computational method provides an effective systematic approach for drug repositioning or lead compound discovery for Parkinson's disease, and the discovery of the neuroprotective effects of 17‐DMAG supports the practicability of this method.
Maternal behaviours may explain riffle‐scale variations in some stream insect populations
Authors: Lancaster Jill , Downes Barbara J.
Published: December 2013

Species composition and abundance of larval insects can vary significantly between similar channel units (riffles) on the same stream as well as between similar streams. The source of this variation is largely unexplained, but important because such spatial variations can influence population and community dynamics and the design of sampling programmes. The maternal and oviposition behaviours of some aquatic insects are specialised, such that eggs are laid in particular locations, and this could influence the spatial distribution of eggs and larvae within a stream.

In a relatively short length of stream (1 km), we tested whether the number of oviposition sites influenced the number of larvae of different instars in whole riffles that ranged in area from 80 to 460 m2. We examined two species, a mayfly Baetis rhodani and a caddisfly Rhyacophila dorsalis, with larvae that are riffle specialists and adults that oviposit exclusively on emergent rocks in riffles. For comparison, we also examined a control species, blackflies Simulium spp., with larvae that are also riffle specialists, but adults that oviposit on trailing vegetation. As an alternative hypothesis, we tested whether the numbers of larvae per riffle were associated with habitat availability, as measured by riffle area.

Numbers of early‐instar B. rhodani and R. dorsalis were positively associated with the numbers of oviposition sites per riffle, but not riffle areas. In contrast, numbers of early‐instar Simulium per riffle (the control species) were not associated with either predictor variable. For later instars, riffle area was a good predictor of larval numbers per riffle for all species, even though the number of oviposition sites still explained much variation for B. rhodani and R. dorsalis. This ontogenetic shift in distribution patterns suggests an adjustment of densities during larval life, and the evidence points to density‐dependent mortality of early‐instar larvae.

Contrary to the prevailing view that riffle‐to‐riffle variations in the numbers of aquatic insect larvae can be explained by larval habitat, this study demonstrates a strong influence of adult behaviour, and oviposition site availability can explain significant amounts of this variation for some species. These results challenge traditional views about aquatic insect populations, which may have more complex and interesting dynamics than considered previously.
Managing the pain of labour: factors associated with the use of labour pain management for pregnant Australian women
Authors: Steel Amie , Adams Jon , Sibbritt David , Broom Alex , Gallois Cindy , Frawley Jane
Published: December 2013

Background

Despite high rates of women's use of intrapartum pain management techniques, little is known about the factors that influence such use.

Objective

Examine the determinants associated with women's use of labour pain management.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey of a substudy of women from the ‘young’ cohort of the Australian Longitudinal Study of Women's Health (ALSWH).

Setting and participants

Women aged 31–35 years who identified as being pregnant or recently given birth in the 2009 ALSWH survey (n = 2445) were recruited for the substudy. The substudy survey was completed by 1835 women (RR = 79.2%).

Main variables studied

Determinants examined included pregnancy health and maternity care [including complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)] for their most recent pregnancy and any previous pregnancies. Participants' attitudes and beliefs related to both CAM and maternity care were also included in the analysis.

Main outcome measures

The outcome measures examined were the use of both pharmacological and non‐pharmacological pain management techniques (NPMT).

Results

Differences were seen in the effects of demographics, health service utilization, health status, use of CAM, and attitudes and beliefs upon use of intrapartum pain management techniques across all categories. The only variable that was identified as a determinant for use of all types of pain management techniques was a previous caesarean section (CS).

Discussion and conclusions

The effect of key determinants on women's use of pain management techniques differs significantly, and, other than CS, no one determinant is clearly influential in the use of all pain management options.
Transurethral Balloon Laser Thermotherapy: Effects of a Directionally Shielded Balloon in Canine Prostates
Authors: Suzuki Takanori , Kurokawa Kohei , Suzuki Kazuhiro , Nakano Katsuya , Daikuzono Norio , Yamanaka Hidetoshi
Published: December 2013

Background: Transurethral balloon laser thermotherapy (TUBAL‐T) improves objective, but not subjective, symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). We studied whether or not an Nd:YAG laser beam with a shielded balloon could successfully irradiate the prostate during TUBAL‐T in a selective manner, to improve the subjective symptoms.

Methods: TUBAL‐T was performed on canine prostates using the balloon with a laser probe, which was shielded anteriorly at 90 degrees (from the center of the balloon) and posteriorly at 90 degrees.

Results: At 20 watts laser power, the relative power density in the bilateral non‐shielded areas was 17.4 and 17.8, and in the shielded area it was 1.0. Observation by thermography revealed that the temperature after laser radiation in a non‐shielded area of a fish cake phantom was higher than in a shielded area. Following transurethral thermotherapy using a shielded balloon in dogs, a cavity was formed bilaterally around the urethra, and the tissues at the anteroposterior sides and the urethra were preserved.

Conclusions: TUBAL‐T, which has been performed in clinical cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia, might be useful in selective irradiation of adenoma if a shielded balloon is used.
The last generation? Perspectives of inshore fish harvesters from Change Islands, Newfoundland
Authors: Smith Derek A. , Vodden Kelly , Woodrow Maureen , Khan Ahmed , Fürst Bojan
Published: December 2013

Our investigation examines the perspectives of fish harvesters on key challenges facing the inshore fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador. The findings, based primarily on in‐depth interviews with harvesters in the town of Change Islands, show that fishers are deeply concerned about ineffective regulations, low prices for their catch, and rationalization policies. They explain how existing regulations restrict traditional cooperative fishing practices and impose rules that are not suited for local environmental conditions. Low prices for fish landed, they argue, are caused in part by lack of competition among buyers and a bonus system that favours larger enterprises. These conditions, combined with policies aimed at reducing the fishing fleet and barriers to youth involvement, threaten the long‐term survival of coastal communities. Overall, current policies keep inshore harvesters on the sidelines of an increasingly industrialized fishery. Local fish harvesters have valuable local, place‐based knowledge that can be used to develop more effective fishery management policies and marketing strategies, and in this article we share their recommendations on how to build more sustainable fisheries. However, traditional fishing communities—along with the potential social, cultural, economic, and environmental benefits of smaller‐scale, community‐based fishing—need to become more visible for these changes to occur.
Silicon Application in Cultivated Rices (Oryza sativa L and Oryza glaberrima Steud) Alleviates Iron Toxicity Symptoms Through the Reduction in Iron Concentration in the Leaf Tissue
Authors: Dufey I. , Gheysens S. , Ingabire A. , Lutts S. , Bertin P.
Published: December 2013

Iron (Fe) toxicity is a constraint commonly encountered in waterlogged conditions. Under anaerobic conditions, reduced Fe is massively absorbed by plants and may induce the generation of reactive oxygen species. This oxidative stress is responsible for physiological perturbations, growth reduction and yield losses. Rice is known as a silicon (Si) accumulator. Although Si is not considered as essential, it is known to play a beneficial role in the resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses through diverse and sometimes unknown mechanisms. The aim of this study was to determine the alleviation of Fe toxicity through Si application in different genotypes. Therefore, cultivars of both cultivated rice species (Oryza sativa and Oryza glaberrima) and lines from a segregating population issued from a cross between IR64 (O. sativa subsp. indica) and Azucena (O. sativa subsp. japonica) were grown in hydroponics under standard or excessive Fe(II) conditions, with or without the addition of Si. The application of Si on Fe‐treated plants strongly alleviated Fe toxicity symptoms. The reduced Fe uptake by Si‐treated plants suggested that an avoidance mechanism would be involved in this alleviation. Moreover, an additive effect of the Si and Fe treatments on the absorption of other nutrients by plants was revealed. These promising results gave insights into the understanding of rice resistance mechanisms to Fe toxicity, opening new perspectives in its management through Si fertilization. Finally, plant response to Si application was greatly influenced by the genotype. Thus, selection of stronger Si‐accumulating varieties could also be of valuable interest in the improvement of rice resistance to Fe toxicity.
Genetic variation, phylogeographic structure of Spodoptera exigua in the welsh onion‐producing areas of North China
Authors: Wang X. Y. , Zhou L. H. , Zhong T. , Xu G. Q.
Published: December 2013

The beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Lepidiptera: Noctuidae), is an important agricultural pest in China, causing serious economic losses in the main welsh onion‐producing areas of North China. In order to effectively monitor and manage this pest, it is necessary to investigate its genetic variation and intraspecific phylogeographic structure in North China. In this study, we used a DNA fragment of cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) consisting of 518 bps to investigate its genetic diversity. A total of 500 individuals of this species were collected from 20 geographic locations, and 8 haplotypes were identified. Low levels of genetic diversity (h = 0.256 ± 0.025, π = 0.00058 ± 0.00008) for the total populations in these study regions were obtained. Phylogenetic and median‐joining network analyses indicated that there was no distinct geographic distribution pattern among haplotypes. The results also indicated that the mean pairwise sequence difference between the populations was 0.1%, ranged from zero to 0.2%. The genetic differentiation (Fst) between the populations varied from −0.198 to 0.656, and there was a significant differentiation between the population of Kunshan (KUNS), Shenyang (SY), Lucheng (LUC), Binzhou (BZ) and the remaining populations, respectively. The analysis of molecular variance (amova) showed that the percentage of variation within a population (69.05%) was greater than that between the populations (30.95%), and the level of population differentiation (FST = 0.310, P < 0.001) was highly significant after 1000 random permutations. Finally, unimodal mismatch distribution combined with negative, Tajima's D (D = −1.956, P < 0.05) and Fu's Fs (Fs = −5.875, P > 0.05) indicated that S. exigua experienced recent population expansion in North China.
Effect of patient safety strategies on the incidence of adverse events
Authors: Fernandez Sierra M. Amelia , Rodriguez del Aguila M. del Mar , Navarro Espigares Jose Luis , Enriquez Maroto M. Francisca
Published: December 2013

Objective

This study aims to estimate the incidence of adverse events (AEs) and avoidable AE in four hospital services before and after applying strategies for patient safety.

Design

Retrospective study of two cohorts (2006 and 2009).

Setting

General Surgery, Internal Medicine, Intensive Care Unit and Oncology services.

Participants

A sample of 365 patients (2006) and 232 in 2009 randomly selected from the services previously cited.

Interventions

Strategies to improve patient safety (e.g. hand‐hygiene campaign).

Main outcome measures

Analyses were made of the change in the incidence and type of AE and avoidable AE, number of procedures and additional days of hospital stay, and the concordance between two recording systems.

Results

The incidence of patients with AE was 20.8% in 2006 compared with 28.9% in 2009 (P < 0.05). Oncology had twofold more AE than did General Surgery [odds ratio (OR) = 2.07, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.12–3.86] for the same length of stay and number of extrinsic risk factors. In 2006, 84.6% were considered avoidable, compared with 57.1% of 2009 (P < 0.001). There was no difference in the average length of additional stay. In 2006, there were more additional procedures compared to 2009 (OR = 2.75, 95% CI: 1.28–6.06). A concordance of 61% was found for the detection of AE with the two recording systems.

Conclusions

An increased incidence in AEs was found after the strategies, while avoidable AE decreased, as did additional treatments and procedures. The measures implemented constitute a further step in reducing avoidance and a greater awareness of recording AEs in the discharge report.
Immunocaptured‐loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification Assay for Detection of Vibrio Parahaemolyticus in Seafood
Authors: Ye Yingwang , Li Hui , Wu Qingping , Na Ling , Han Yongjia
Published: December 2013

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is an important seafood‐borne pathogen associated with gastrointestinal disorders in humans. In this study, the efficacy of a loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) combined with immunocapture assay was firstly developed for detection of V. parahaemolyticus in pure culture, artificially and naturally contaminated seafood samples. The detection limit was 7.3 × 101 cfu/mL for pure culture and artificially contaminated samples by IC‐LAMP, compared with 7.3 × 102 cfu/mL by LAMP. Furthermore, among 156 natural seafood samples, 13, 13 and 11 of samples were positive for V. arahaemolyticus by IC‐LAMP, LAMP and culture‐based method, respectively. V. parahaemolyticus was isolated from 11 of the 156 seafood samples by culture‐based method, all of which were positive by IC‐LAMP assay. A comparison between LAMP, IC‐LAMP and culture‐based method indicated that IC‐LAMP was sensitive, specific and reliable for monitoring V. parahaemolyticus contamination in seafood samples.

Practical Application

Development of rapid, sensitive and specific methods for detection of V. parahaemolyticus is of utmost importance for monitoring and controlling contaminated seafood. In this study, loop‐mediated isothermal amplification combined with the newly developed immunocapture showed higher detection limit than that by LAMP and more specific compared with that by culture‐based method. The IC‐LAMP was fit for monitoring V. parahaemolyticus contamination in seafood samples.
HETEROSCEDASTICITY OR PRODUCTION RISK? A SYNTHETIC VIEW
Authors: Saastamoinen Antti
Published: December 2013

Two veins of literature, namely, production risk literature and stochastic frontier analysis, are examined. Both fields are concerned of output variation; the former due to exogenous shocks, the latter due inefficiency. By covering the literature from both the fields, this review suggests that the concept of heteroscedasticity can be utilized to build a synthesis between these mainly separate branches of literature. However, the synthetic approach brings a challenge how to differentiate between different sources of output variation. This challenge is identified as the main obstacle to meaningfully combine the two approaches.
Pricing of Transport Networks, Redistribution, and Optimal Taxation
Authors: RUSSO ANTONIO
Published: December 2013

The author studies optimal pricing of roads and public transport in the presence of nonlinear income taxation. Individuals are heterogeneous in unobservable earning ability. Optimal transport tariffs depend on time costs of travel and work schedule adjustments (days and hours worked per day) as a response to commuting costs. The author finds that discounts for low‐income individuals are optimal only if the time cost of a trip is small enough. Lower travel time costs facilitate screening; therefore, redistribution provides an additional motive for congestion pricing. Finally, the study investigates the desirability of means‐testing of transport tariffs.
Religion and Volunteering Over the Adult Life Course
Authors: Johnston Joseph B.
Published: December 2013

Previous studies have not longitudinally assessed whether religion is related to individuals’ movement into volunteering activities across the adult life course. Using four waves of panel data, I present evidence that religion is associated with individuals’ movement into religious institution and nonreligious institutional forms of volunteerism—volunteering for a religious congregation or other religious organization, and volunteering for a nonreligious institution, respectively. I consider the general religious mechanisms of changes in motivation to volunteer through enhanced religious beliefs and increased opportunities to volunteer through greater religious service attendance and involvement. Increased religious belief and attendance result in a greater probability that individuals engage in religious institution volunteerism. Religious institution volunteering increases the likelihood of movement into other formal volunteering over the adult life course. This analysis offers evidence that religious institutions are feeder systems, as increased involvement yields more opportunities for formal volunteerism over the adult life course, irrespective of underlying personality traits. Additionally, the findings suggest that religious mechanisms may operate differently across Christian religious traditions.
Prolonged Culture Period on Production Cost and Factor Input: A Case from the Pacific Oyster, Crassostrea gigas, Farming Industry in Yunlin County, Taiwan
Authors: Huang Jung‐Fu , Lee Jie‐Min , Sun Po‐Chen
Published: December 2013

The Yunlin coastal area is the largest oyster culture in Taiwan; however, the oyster farmers reported the negative impact of a prolonged oyster culture period and an increased operating cost in 2010. This study uses the translog cost function to consider the possibility of an oyster culture period extension to estimate oyster cost elasticity, own‐price elasticities, and cross‐price (substitution) elasticities, to evaluate whether the oyster farming industry in Yunlin County has economies of scale, and to assess the relationship with a substitution of inputs. We found that the Yunlin oyster culture has economies of scale, and that the oyster farmers can expand production scale to reduce costs. The own‐price elasticities of demand for inputs are less than 1, indicating fairly inelastic factor demands in oyster production. The oyster farming industry displays strong substitutability between the prolonged culture period and capital input, suggesting that the oyster farming industry is more responsive to a higher prolonged culture period cost, in terms of capital input.
A silent mutation in mabA confers isoniazid resistance on Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Ando Hiroki , Miyoshi‐Akiyama Tohru , Watanabe Shinya , Kirikae Teruo
Published: December 2013

Drug resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is caused by mutations in restricted regions of the genome. Mutations in katG, the promoter region of the mabA–inhA operon, and inhA are those most frequently responsible for isoniazid (INH) resistance. Several INH‐resistant (INHr) Mtb clinical isolates without mutations in these regions have been described, however, indicating that there are as yet undetermined mechanisms of INH resistance. We identified the mabAg609a silent mutation in a significant number of INHr Mtb clinical isolates without known INH resistance mutations. A laboratory strain, H37Rv, constructed with mabAg609a, was resistant to INH. We show here that the mabAg609a mutation resulted in the upregulation of inhA, a gene encoding a target for INH, converting the region adjacent to the mutation into an alternative promoter for inhA. The mabAg609a silent mutation results in a novel mechanism of INH resistance, filling in a missing piece of INH resistance in Mtb.
Fluid homeostasis in the neonate
Authors: O'Brien Frances , Walker Isabeau A.
Published: December 2013

The physiology of the neonate is ideally suited to the transition to extrauterine life followed by a period of rapid growth and development. Intravenous fluids and electrolytes should be prescribed with care in the neonate. Sodium and water requirements in the first few days of life are low and should be increased after the postnatal diuresis. Expansion of the extracellular fluid volume prior to the postnatal diuresis is associated with poor outcomes, particularly in preterm infants. Newborn infants are prone to hypoglycemia and require a source of intravenous glucose if enteral feeds are withheld. Anemia is common, and untreated is associated with poor outcomes. Liberal versus restrictive transfusion practices are controversial, but liberal transfusion practices (accompanied by measures to minimize donor exposure) may be associated with improved long‐term outcomes. Intravenous crystalloids are as effective as albumin to treat hypotension, and semi‐synthetic colloids cannot be recommended at this time. Inotropes should be used to treat hypotension unresponsive to intravenous fluid, ideally guided by assessment of perfusion rather than blood pressure alone. Noninvasive methods of assessing cardiac output have been validated in neonates. More studies are required to guide fluid management in neonates, particularly in those with sepsis or undergoing surgery. A balanced salt solution such as Hartmann's or Plasmalyte should be used to replace losses during surgery (and blood or coagulation factors as indicated). Excessive fluid administration during surgery should be avoided.
Equality and Postcolonial Claims of Discursive Injury
Authors: Michel Noémi
Published: December 2013

In Western Europe, individuals and groups increasingly claim that publicly enunciated denigrating racial discourse inflicts an injury upon them, and inscribe this claim under the rubric of equality. By adopting a method of claim‐centered critical theorizing, I discuss the possibilities and implications of reading “claims of racialized discursive injury” as claims to equality. A review of contemporary political theorists concerned with equality and injurious discourse establishes the democratic relevance of claims of discursive injury. A discussion of Judith Butler's theory of performativity then identifies the properties of the injurable subject and of discourse's power. Finally, I specify how a postcolonial stance enables us to grasp the actualization of discursive injury as it resonates between past colonial inequalities and threats of future exclusion or death. This equality‐focused reading sheds light on the transformative potential of claims of racialized discursive injury for resignifying equality in contexts marked by “race” and postcolonialism.