bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Copula‐Based Non‐parametric Measure of Regression Dependence
Authors: DETTE HOLGER , SIBURG KARL F. , STOIMENOV PAVEL A.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. This article presents a framework for comparing bivariate distributions according to their degree of regression dependence. We introduce the general concept of a regression dependence order (RDO). In addition, we define a new non‐parametric measure of regression dependence and study its properties. Besides being monotone in the new RDOs, the measure takes on its extreme values precisely at independence and almost sure functional dependence, respectively. A consistent non‐parametric estimator of the new measure is constructed and its asymptotic properties are investigated. Finally, the finite sample properties of the estimate are studied by means of a small simulation study.
The Role of Person Characteristics in Perceptions of the Validity of Cognitive Ability Testing
Authors: Reeder Matthew C. , Powers Charlotte L. , Ryan Ann Marie , Gibby Robert E.
Published: February 2012

Individuals vary in how they perceive cognitive ability tests; thus, it is useful for organizations to consider how individual differences influence applicant perceptions of selection tools. The present study examined the influence of implicit theories of ability and locus of control on perceptions of face validity and predictive validity for two cognitive ability tests. Relationships between perceptions and test experience, job‐relevant experience, and job familiarity were also examined. Interactions between implicit theories and self‐assessed performance in predicting perceptions were found, although not of the form hypothesized. Furthermore, job familiarity and prior success in selection contexts were related to perceptions. Finally, sample type interacted with test type to influence perceptions. Implications for selection system design and research on applicant perceptions are discussed.
Examining the Psychometric Properties of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale in Two Spanish Multi‐occupational Samples
Authors: Extremera Natalio , Sánchez‐García Manuel , Durán Ma Auxiliadora , Rey Lourdes
Published: February 2012

The aim of this study was to provide some evidence of reliability and validity of the 15‐item Spanish version of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) between two multi‐occupational samples. In two different studies, 525 human services employees (study 1; males = 233; females = 292) and 409 multi‐occupational employees (study 2; males = 179; females = 230) completed the Spanish UWES. In study 1, our results revealed satisfactory levels of reliability for each subscale. In addition, the confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the three‐factor model fitted better than the one‐factor model and supported the theoretical three‐factor structure (vigor, dedication, and absorption). Furthermore, results from the multi‐sample analysis found strict factorial invariance of the Spanish UWES across gender, suggesting that the UWES factors show the same composition and interpretation in both groups. In study 2, our results once again confirmed the same three‐factor structure for the Spanish UWES. We found support for theoretically proposed two‐factor model including: (1) emotional exhaustion and depersonalization and (2) all three dimensions of engagement plus personal accomplishment. We also found evidence of convergent, discriminant, and incremental validity with respect to burnout, life satisfaction, and perceived stress. In short, our results provide empirical support for structural validity of the Spanish UWES in multi‐occupational workers.
Acute phase inflammatory markers in patients with non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)‐induced acute urticaria/angioedema and after aspirin challenge
Authors: Kasperska‐Zając A. , Grzanka A. , Czecior E. , Misiolek M. , Rogala B. , Machura E.
Published: February 2012

Background  Active chronic urticaria, identified as a mast cell‐ and basophil‐dependent inflammatory disorder of the skin is able to elicit acute phase response (APR). However, systemic inflammatory response in different types of urticaria is poorly characterized.

Aim  To determine APR pattern in a clearly defined group of patients with acute urticaria and/or angioedema – induced by NSAIDs.

Methods  Plasma IL‐6 and serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) concentrations were studied in 17 patients with NSAIDs‐induced acute urticaria/angioedema (NSAIDsAU) and in 20 healthy controls. Eleven patients who used NSAIDs were presented at the emergency room with acute urticaria/angioedema while the remaining six manifested the symptoms during the aspirin challenge test. Patients were examined in a dynamic manner: during the acute phase, and next, after subsidence of the symptoms.

Results  CRP and IL‐6 concentrations increased significantly in patients with NSAIDsAU as compared with their asymptomatic period and the healthy subjects. In addition, NSAIDsAU patients showed elevated concentration of the biomarkers following aspirin provocation with the baseline values recovered in the asymptomatic period.

Conclusion  These results indicate that an acute systemic inflammatory response is activated in patients with NSAIDs‐induced urticaria and/or angioedema. The study supports the evidence proving that up‐regulation of CRP and IL‐6 in urticaria/angioedema does not necessarily reflect any concomitant infection or other inflammatory processes, but may be due to the disease itself.
Trophy hunting with uncertain role for population dynamics and extinction of ungulates
Authors: Mysterud A.
Published: February 2012

Read the Feature Paper: Rarity, trophy hunting and ungulates, other Commentaries on this paper: Rarity, willingness to pay and conservation and the Response from the authors: Response: rarity, trophy hunting and ungulates
Early speech–language development in females with Rett syndrome: focusing on the preserved speech variant
Authors: MARSCHIK PETER B , PINI GIORGIO , BARTL‐POKORNY KATRIN D , DUCKWORTH MARTIN , GUGATSCHKA MARKUS , VOLLMANN RALF , ZAPPELLA MICHELE , EINSPIELER CHRISTA
Published: February 2012

Aim  Our aim was to contribute new findings related to the pre‐regressional verbal development of females with a variant of Rett syndrome (RTT) as the loss of spoken language is one of the key clinical features of RTT, and it would be of particular interest to study the early speech–language development of females who are considered to have preserved some speech–language abilities.

Method  We analysed 461 minutes of audio–video recordings containing play situations and the daily routines of six females (aged 7 to 24 months; mean birthweight 3057g, SD 195g) with the preserved speech variant (PSV) of RTT. All videos were recorded by parents and analysed retrospectively after the diagnosis PSV was made.

Results  From the age of 7 months onwards, we observed two types of vocalizations, appearing intermittently: (1) apparently normal sequences; and (2) atypical (i.e. inhalatory, pressed, or high‐pitched crying‐like) vocalizations. Some participants failed to reach the milestone of canonical babbling. We observed a limited phonological and lexical complexity and a restricted compositional variability. Volubility was reduced during the whole period under observation. Hand stereotypies with simultaneous atypical vocalizations appeared only during the second year of life.

Interpretation  The intermittent character of normal versus abnormal verbal behaviours might contribute to an early identification of children with a possible genetic mutation, and provides evidence that speech–language functions are abnormal from the very beginning.
A systematic review of two outcomes in autism spectrum disorder – epilepsy and mortality
Authors: WOOLFENDEN SUE , SARKOZY VANESSA , RIDLEY GRETA , COORY MICHAEL , WILLIAMS KATRINA
Published: February 2012

Aim  It has been reported that rates of epilepsy and mortality are higher among the population with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) than in the general population. The aim of this systematic review is to provide comprehensive evidence for clinicians, carers, and people with ASD regarding these outcomes.

Method  Studies were eligible for inclusion if the main focus of the study involved observation over a period of 12 months or more of an initially defined population (with appropriate diagnostic label). Studies were also required to have at least 30 participants in order to differentiate case series from cohort studies. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the Database of Reviews of Effectiveness, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and CINAHL were searched. The date of the last search was September 2010. The risk of bias of included studies was assessed and a meta‐analysis was undertaken.

Results  Twenty‐one studies were identified, 16 measuring the percentage of participants with epilepsy and five measuring mortality using a standardized mortality ratio. The pooled estimate for the percentage of participants with epilepsy was 1.8% (95% CI 0.4–9.4%) in studies in which the majority did not have an intellectual disability and the mean age was <12 years at follow‐up, and 23.7% (95% CI 17.5–30.5%) in studies in which the majority did have an intellectual disability and the mean age at follow‐up was more than 12 years. The pooled estimate for the standardized mortality ratio was 2.8 (95% CI 1.8–4.2).

Interpretation  The prevalence of epilepsy is higher among the population with ASD than in the general population. People with ASD have a higher risk of mortality than the general population. This has important health promotion implications.
Can conscious consumption be learned? The role of Hungarian consumer protection education in becoming conscious consumers
Authors: Süle Margit
Published: February 2012

The purpose of this research is to examine how consumer consciousness can be defined, along what dimensions it might be measured and, according to these dimensions, how conscious Hungarian university students are. In addition, it is also discussed how their consumer protection education might contribute to their consumer consciousness. Two hypotheses have been proposed concerning factors potentially affecting conscious consumer behaviour (gender; participation in consumer protection education). To test these hypotheses, a questionnaire survey has been conducted with a total of 280 respondents, whom are undergraduate students of a Hungarian university. It is found that different aspects of consciousness dominate the consumer decisions of females and males. Female respondents appear to be characterized more by hedonistic consumption but they are more price sensitive than males. Veblen effect is stronger for males, and they have greater trust in well‐known brands. Although the survey revealed that both research variables might affect consumer behaviour (not only gender but the participation in consumer protection education as well), the role of education cannot be unambiguously identified in the process of establishing consumer consciousness. On the one hand, the results show that the behaviour of ‘trained’ consumers is mainly characterized by price sensitiveness, while the other (‘non‐educated’) group is more reliant on marketing and brands. However, on the other hand, it might also be concluded that young adults participating in the survey already have their own consumer habits and preferences; therefore, their consumer behaviour is more difficult to be formed by means of education during their university years. These findings are nevertheless limited to Hungarian university students and cannot be generalized to the entire society or other countries.
Consumers' valuation of food quality labels: the case of the European geographic indication and organic farming labels
Authors: Aprile Maria Carmela , Caputo Vincenzina , Nayga Jr Rodolfo M.
Published: February 2012

This paper assesses consumers' preferences and willingness to pay for European Union geographical indication quality labels [Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indications (PGI)], organic farming label and other product quality cues. Using a choice experiment, random parameter logit model and olive oil as product of interest, results suggest that respondents are willing to pay the highest premium price for a product with a PDO label, followed by organic farming label, a quality cue describing the product as extra‐virgin olive oil and then a PGI label.
Vitamin A deficiency impairs postnatal cognitive function via inhibition of neuronal calcium excitability in hippocampus
Authors: Jiang Wei , Yu Qin , Gong Min , Chen Li , Wen En Yi , Bi Yang , Zhang Yun , Shi Yuan , Qu Ping , Liu You Xue , Wei Xiao Ping , Chen Jie , Li Ting Yu
Published: February 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 121, 932–943.

Vitamin A (VA) is important for postnatal brain development, and VA deficiency (VAD) can cause learning and spatial memory deficits in rats. Most of the biological functions of VA are mediated by retinoic acid (RA). To investigate the mechanisms underlying VA deficits, mother rats were fed elemental diets to achieve blood VA levels classified as normal, deficient or severely deficient. Shuttle box and Morris water maze tests revealed impairments in learning ability and spatial memory, respectively, in adolescent VAD rats (p 30–35). Electrophysiology showed weaker long‐term potentiation in VAD rats compared to VA normal rats. Examination of NMDA‐induced calcium (Ca2+) excitability revealed decreased excitability in hippocampal slices from VAD rats during postnatal development. Relative to VA normal rats, VAD rats also had decreased NMDA receptor NR1 mRNA and protein expression in later stages of postnatal development (p 10–30), as well as differences in retinoic acid receptor (RARα) mRNA and protein expression. Furthermore, primary hippocampal neurons in culture showed increased neuronal Ca2+ excitability in response to all‐trans‐RA or 9‐cis‐RA, coupled with increases in RARα and NR1 expression similar to those observed in vivo. We also found weaker calcium excitability and lower expression of NR1 mRNA and protein after specific silencing of RARα. Finally, we found that RA signals affected the expression of NR1 do not directly through transcriptional regulation. These data support the new idea that continuous postnatal VAD inhibits RARα expression, which decreases NR1 expression via no direct transcriptional regulation and then inhibits hippocampal neuronal Ca2+excitability which affects long‐term potentiation, finally producing deficits in active learning and spatial memory in adolescence.
Did Copayment Changes Reduce Health Service Utilization among CHIP Enrollees? Evidence from Alabama
Authors: Sen Bisakha , Blackburn Justin , Morrisey Michael A. , Kilgore Meredith L. , Becker David J. , Caldwell Cathy , Menachemi Nir
Published: February 2012

Objective

To explore whether health care utilization changed among enrollees in Alabama's CHIP program, ALL Kids, following copayment increases at the beginning of fiscal year 2004.

Data Sources

Data on all ALL Kids enrollees over 1999–2009 are obtained from claims files and the state's administrative database.

Study Design

We use pooled month‐level data for all enrollees and conduct covariate‐adjusted segmented regression models. Health services considered are inpatient care, emergency department (ED) visits, brand‐name prescription drugs, generic prescription drugs, physician office visits and outpatient‐services, ambulance services, allergy treatments, and non‐preventive dental services. Physician well‐visits, preventive dental services, and service use by Native‐Americans—which saw no copayment increases—serve as counterfactuals.

Principal Findings

There are significant declines in utilization for inpatient care, physician visits, brand‐name medications, and ED visits following the copayment increases. By and large, utilization did not decline, or declined only temporarily, for those services and for those enrollees that who not subject to increased copayments.

Conclusions

Copayment increases reduced utilization of many health services among ALL Kids enrollees. Concerns remain regarding the long‐term health consequences to low‐income children of copayment‐induced reductions in health care utilization.
A Systematic Review of Community‐Based Participatory Research to Enhance Clinical Trials in Racial and Ethnic Minority Groups
Authors: De Las Nueces Denise , Hacker Karen , DiGirolamo Ann , Hicks LeRoi S.
Published: February 2012

Objective

To examine the effectiveness of current community‐based participatory research (CBPR) clinical trials involving racial and ethnic minorities.

Data Source

All published peer‐reviewed CBPR intervention articles in PubMed and CINAHL databases from January 2003 to May 2010.

Study Design

We performed a systematic literature review.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Data were extracted on each study's characteristics, community involvement in research, subject recruitment and retention, and intervention effects.

Principle Findings

We found 19 articles meeting inclusion criteria. Of these, 14 were published from 2007 to 2010. Articles described some measures of community participation in research with great variability. Although CBPR trials examined a wide range of behavioral and clinical outcomes, such trials had very high success rates in recruiting and retaining minority participants and achieving significant intervention effects.

Conclusions

Significant publication gaps remain between CBPR and other interventional research methods. CBPR may be effective in increasing participation of racial and ethnic minority subjects in research and may be a powerful tool in testing the generalizability of effective interventions among these populations. CBPR holds promise as an approach that may contribute greatly to the study of health care delivery to disadvantaged populations.
IFN‐γ synergistically enhances LPS signalling in alveolar macrophages from COPD patients and controls by corticosteroid‐resistant STAT1 activation
Authors: Southworth T , Metryka A , Lea S , Farrow S , Plumb J , Singh D
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE IFN‐γ levels are increased in chronic obstructive airway disease (COPD) patients compared with healthy subjects and are further elevated during viral exacerbations. IFN‐γ can ‘prime’ macrophages to enhance the response to toll‐like receptor (TLR) ligands, such as LPS. The aim of this study was to examine the effect IFN‐γ on corticosteroid sensitivity in alveolar macrophages (AM).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH AM from non‐smokers, smokers and COPD patients were stimulated with IFN‐γ and/or LPS with or without dexamethasone. IL‐6, TNF‐α and IFN‐γ‐induced protein 10 kDa (IP‐10) levels were measured by elisa, and Western blots were used to investigate the IFN‐γ‐stimulated Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signalling pathway. Real‐time PCR and flow cytometry were used to investigate TLR levels following IFN‐γ treatment.

KEY RESULTS In all three subject groups, IFN‐γ alone had no effect on IL‐6 and TNF‐α production but enhanced the effects of LPS on these cytokines. In contrast, IFN‐γ alone increased the production of IP‐10. IFN‐γ increased TLR2 and TLR4 expression in AM. Cytokine induction and STAT1 activation by IFN‐γ were insensitive to dexamethasone for all groups. The inhibition of JAK and STAT1 repressed all these IFN‐γ effects.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our results demonstrate that IFN‐γ–induced STAT‐1 signalling is corticosteroid resistant in AMs, and that targeting IFN‐γ signalling by JAK inhibitors is a potentially novel anti‐inflammatory strategy in COPD.
Functional role of T‐type calcium channels in tumour growth and progression: prospective in cancer therapy
Authors: Santoni Giorgio , Santoni Matteo , Nabissi Massimo
Published: February 2012

T‐type Ca2+ channels represent a specific channel family overexpressed in different types of tumours. Their involvement in controlling the proliferation, angiogenesis and invasion of tumour cells, has been partially clarified. The article by Zhang et al. in this issue of BJP provides the first evidence of anti‐tumoural effects of endostatin (ES) in U87 glioma cells. He demonstrated that ES or mibefradil (a L/T‐type calcium channel blocker), reduces the proliferation and migration of U87 glioma cells in a T‐type Ca2+ channel‐dependent manner. However, the difference in the blocking effect of mibefradil on T‐type calcium channel expression as compared with its ability to inhibit proliferation and migration, supports the idea of a broader T/L‐type‐independent effect of the mibefradil blocker. Overall, these findings provide new insights for the future development of a novel class of anti‐T‐type calcium channel blockers in the therapy of glioblastoma.

LINKED ARTICLE This article is a commentary on Zhang et al., pp. 1247–1260 of this issue. To view this paper visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2012.01852.x
Working with sustainability: Experiences of sustainability processes in Swedish municipalities
Authors: Keskitalo E. Carina H. , Liljenfeldt Johanna
Published: February 2012

Working with sustainability goals at the local level places large requirements on developing and integrating priorities within the budgeting and organization of local government. This study reviews how selected Swedish municipalities have dealt with developing local sustainability processes, in particular in regard to the Aalborg Declaration commitments. The study highlights difficulties, including the lack of funding and staff time for clearly relating to outside sustainability documents and strategies. It also focuses on the requirement for dedicated resources to development, prioritization and follow‐up of sustainability goals, especially in smaller municipalities.
Institutional cooperation at a basin level: For what, by whom? Lessons learned from Cambodia's Tonle Sap Lake
Authors: Keskinen Marko , Varis Olli
Published: February 2012

Water is fundamental for the development of any society. Several concepts in water management promote integration, cooperation and a basin‐wide approach as a means to achieve sustainable development of water resources. Management institutions aiming to put these concepts into practice are developed around the world, with varying success. This paper looks at the institutional setting in the Tonle Sap Lake area in Cambodia, and analyses three initiatives for establishing a coordinating organization for the lake basin. Due to the significance of the Tonle Sap to the entire country and the transboundary Mekong River Basin, the area's management is an important yet contested issue. Our study indicates that while the discussion about the most suitable forms of management revolves around commonly accepted ideals of cooperation and sustainability, the actual drivers for institutional reforms are strongly influenced by the existing institutions and their political rivalries and interests. Following, the basin‐wide approach currently dominant in water management — for good and logical reasons — can actually hinder institutional cooperation, as the existing institutional hegemons may see it as a threat to their mandate. We therefore argue that a process seeking to establish a new basin organization should pay particular attention to the existing institutions, including the way the differing scales, levels and boundaries within the basin affect their relations.
Seizures and epilepsy in Sotos syndrome: Analysis of 19 Caucasian patients with long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Nicita Francesco , Ruggieri Martino , Polizzi Agata , Mauceri Laura , Salpietro Vincenzo , Briuglia Silvana , Papetti Laura , Ursitti Fabiana , Grosso Salvatore , Tarani Luigi , Segni Maria , Savasta Salvatore , Parisi Pasquale , Verrotti Alberto , Spalice Alberto
Published: February 2012

Sotos syndrome (SS) is an overgrowth syndrome characterized by typical facial appearance, learning disability, and macrocephaly as cardinal diagnostic features. Febrile (FS) and afebrile seizures are reported in 9–50% of cases. There is no evidence that patients with SS and FS later develop epilepsy, and no studies have investigated the electroclinical features and the long‐term outcome in epileptic SS patients. The authors report a series of 19 SS patients with FS and/or epilepsy during childhood and a long‐term follow‐up. More than half of FS evolved to epilepsy. Temporal lobe seizures were recorded in 40% of patients with SS. Seizures were easy to control with common antiepileptic drugs in almost all patients. A careful neurologic evaluation is useful for SS patients, since seizures are an important finding among people with this overgrowth syndrome.
Capacity and Efficiency in Small‐ to Medium‐Sized Biodiesel Production Systems
Authors: Kovács András J.
Published: February 2012

This article applies principles of industrial ecology to small‐ and medium‐sized biodiesel production facilities. A large potential for gains in efficiency and profit are realized through technology retrofits and the novel application and reuse of process materials.

Our basic criteria for sustainability of farm‐scale biodiesel production systems are measured by the following questions: Are all of the resources, mass, and energy flows in the system rational and harmonized? Is the feedstock produced without adverse effects on natural resources or the food chain?

We answer these questions by presenting and applying the latest chemical engineering and technology research to support the harmonized and rationalized use of resources and energy within the system boundaries of a farm economy. The feedstock must include refuse and secondary oil sources with low impact on the food chain. Emissions must be reduced to a minimum for a smaller carbon footprint and positive emissions balance from seed to exhaust. Discharges should be avoided; wastes must be turned into primary and intermediary products or energy resources. Proper techniques and routines should serve environmental and human health and safety targets.

Reuse of existing assets is considered for improving unit capacity and efficiency, thus lowering costs of conversion. Significant benefits in profitability and production capacity, combined with improved environmental performance, are the main outcomes of the recommended restructuring of production at farm‐scale.
Information Exchange in Policy Networks
Authors: Leifeld Philip , Schneider Volker
Published: February 2012

Information exchange in policy networks is usually attributed to preference similarity, influence reputation, social trust, and institutional actor roles. We suggest that political opportunity structures and transaction costs play another crucial role and estimate a rich statistical network model on tie formation in the German toxic chemicals policy domain. The results indicate that the effect of preference similarity is absorbed by institutional, relational, and social opportunity structures. Political actors choose contacts who minimize transaction costs while maximizing outreach and information. We also find that different types of information exchange operate in complementary, but not necessarily congruent, ways.
Retail Strategies for Extended Warranty Sales and Impact on Manufacturer Base Warranties
Authors: Heese H. Sebastian
Published: February 2012

Consider two competing manufacturers selling their products through the same retailer. If this retailer derives profits from extended warranty sales, the manufacturers face a dilemma in setting their base warranties. Although they have incentive to increase their warranties to make their products attractive to consumers, the retailer might prefer selling lower‐warranty products to enhance extended warranties sales. We develop a stylized model to determine and analyze optimal manufacturer and retailer strategies in this setting. Consistent with the ongoing decline in warranties for products that are sold through independent retailers, we show that these interactions exert downward pressure on manufacturer warranties. Rather than pitching the extended warranty at the checkout after customers have selected a certain product, we find that retailers can often benefit from inducing simultaneous consideration of product and extended warranty characteristics, for example by posting extended warranty information right on the product shelf.
The Prognostic Value of Heart Rate Variability in the Elderly, Changing the Perspective: From Sympathovagal Balance to Chaos Theory
Authors: NICOLINI PAOLA , CIULLA MICHELE M. , ASMUNDIS CARLO DE , MAGRINI FABIO , BRUGADA PEDRO
Published: February 2012

Heart rate variability (HRV) is the temporal beat‐to‐beat variation in successive RR intervals on an electrocardiographic (ECG) recording and it reflects the regulation of the heart rate (HR) by the autonomic nervous system (ANS). HRV analysis is a noninvasive tool for the assessment of autonomic function that gained momentum in the late 1980s when its clinical relevance as a predictor of mortality was established by a milestone study by Kleiger et al. in patients with postacute myocardial infarction. In the last few decades, the increasing availability of commercial ECG devices offering HRV analysis has made HRV a favorite marker for risk stratification in the setting of cardiovascular disease. The rapid aging of the world population and the growing popularity of HRV have also fueled interest for the prognostic value of HRV in the elderly, outside a specific cardiological context. However, the discussion of HRV measures in the elderly is still very much centered on the rather reductionistic model of sympathovagal balance, with the orthosympathetic and parasympathetic limbs of the ANS exercising opposing effects on the heart via autonomic tone. The expanding application of nonlinear dynamics to medicine has brought to the forefront the notion of system complexity, embedded in the mathematical concepts of chaos theory and fractals, and provides an opportunity to suggest a broader interpretation for the prognostic significance of HRV, especially in the elderly. Although the use of novel indices of HRV may be hampered by practical issues, a more holistic approach to HRV may still be safeguarded if traditional time‐ and frequency‐domain measures are viewed in terms of autonomic modulation. This review focuses on HRV in geriatric populations. It considers studies on the prognostic value of HRV in elderly subjects, discussing the potential confounding effect of erratic rhythm, and concentrates on the conceptual distinction between autonomic tone and autonomic modulation. It also briefly addresses the question of the practicality of ECG recordings and identifies a promising area for future research in the effects of common noncardioactive drugs on HRV.
(PACE 2012;00:1–17)
The Effect of In Vitro Growth Conditions on the Resistance of Acanthamoeba Cysts
Authors: Coulon Celine , Dechamps Nathalie , Meylheuc Thierry , Collignon Anne , McDonnell Gerald , Thomas Vincent
Published: February 2012

Despite increasing concerns of direct pathogenicity and/or their role as hosts for other microorganisms there are currently no standard methods for the inactivation of amoebae that belong to the genus Acanthamoeba. Methods used to grow amoebae and produce cysts for these tests may be important as they can dramatically modify cyst susceptibility. We compared resistance of cysts produced from trophozoites grown in peptone‐yeast extract‐glucose broth or by feeding on HEp‐2 cells and then encysted in Neff's medium. We observed that trophozoites grown using HEp‐2 cells as a nutrient source produce cysts that are significantly more resistant to SDS and to most biocides tested, including heat. Increased resistance is likely due to a higher proportion of mature cysts presenting thicker cell walls as demonstrated using transmission electron microscopy. This was confirmed by calcofluor white staining demonstrating higher cellulose content in cysts produced from trophozoites grown using HEp‐2 cells as a feeding source. These results demonstrate that not only methods used to produce cysts from trophozoites are critical, but that methods used to grow trophozoites before encystment should also be chosen carefully. This should be taken into account for the development of protocols to evaluate biocides and antimicrobials against amoebal cysts.
Hepatoblastoma in an infant with paternal uniparental disomy 14
Authors: Horii Mariko , Horiuchi Hiroko , Momoeda Mikio , Nakagawa Machiko , Hirata Michio , Kusakawa Isao , Yamanaka Michiko
Published: February 2012

A 29‐year‐old primigravida developed polyhydramnios at 24 weeks of gestation, requiring six serial amnioreductions. In addition, prenatal ultrasound examinations revealed a fetus with small stomach pouch, small thorax, slightly shortened limbs, and skin edema; paternal uniparental disomy 14(upd(14)pat) phenotype was suspected. At 37 weeks, the patient delivered a 2558 g female infant with characteristic facial features, webbed neck, thoracic deformity, abdominal wall defect, skin edema, overlapping fingers, placentomegaly, and small thorax with ‘coat‐hanger’ appearance of the ribs on chest X‐ray. A phenotype consistent with upd(14)pat was confirmed by DNA analysis. Although the infant's condition was initially stable, hepatoblastoma was subsequently detected and right hepatectomy was performed on day 224. On day 382, the infant was discharged with in‐home respiratory management.
Effect of working consecutive night shifts on sleep time, prior wakefulness, perceived levels of fatigue and performance on a psychometric test in emergency registrars
Authors: Haire Julia Christine Lydia , Ferguson Sally Anne , Tilleard James D , Negus Paul , Dorrian Jillian , Thomas Matthew JW
Published: February 2012

Objective: To evaluate the effect of working consecutive night shifts on sleep time, prior wakefulness, perceived levels of fatigue and psychomotor performance in a group of Australian emergency registrars.

Methods: A prospective observational study with a repeated within‐subjects component was conducted. Sleep time was determined using sleep diaries and activity monitors. Subjective fatigue levels and reciprocal reaction times were evaluated before and after day and night shifts.

Results: A total of 11 registrars participated in the study with 120 shifts analysed. Sleep time was found to be similar during consecutive night and day shifts. The mean number of hours spent awake before the end of a night shift was 14.33. Subjective fatigue scores were worst at the end of a night shift. There was no difference in reciprocal reaction time between the end of night shift and the start of day shift.

Conclusions: Registrars sleep a similar amount of time surrounding night and day shifts. Despite reporting the highest levels of fatigue at the end of a night shift, there is no significant difference in reaction times at the end of night shift compared with the beginning of day shift. This correlates with the finding that at the end of night shift the registrars have been awake for less than 16 h, which is the point at which psychomotor performance is expected to decline.
Ursolic Acid Inhibits Proliferation and Induces Apoptosis in Human Glioblastoma Cell Lines U251 by Suppressing TGF‐β1/miR‐21/PDCD4 Pathway
Authors: Wang Jian , Li Yongli , Wang Xiaofeng , Jiang Chuanlu
Published: February 2012

New chemotherapeutic strategy should be investigated to enhance clinical management in human gliomas. Recently, ursolic acid (UA), as a naturally occurring pentacyclic triterpene, has exhibited a potent anticancer activity in various tumour cells but remains uncertain in human glioma cells. Here, we examined whether UA could suppress the proliferation of human glioma cell line U251, and if so, its possible molecular targets. Cell survival, apoptosis and molecular targets were identified by multiple detecting techniques, including trypan blue dye exclusion assay, electron microscopy, AO/EB staining, Real‐time PCR and immunoblotting in U251 cells. The results showed that 5–20 μM of UA suppressed proliferation and induced apoptosis of U251 cells in dose‐ and time‐dependent manners. UA increased the activation of caspase‐3 and markedly suppressed levels of microRNA‐21 (miR‐21) in a time‐dependent manner. The expression of programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4), which is a miR‐21 targeting apoptotic gene, has also been enhanced by UA. And over‐expression of miR‐21 in U251 cells abolished the enhancement of PDCD4 protein by UA. More importantly, TGF‐β1/smads signalling, as critical upstream regulators of miR‐21, has also been suppressed by UA. These findings suggest that UA inhibits cell growth via causing apoptosis in U251 cells by a UA‐triggered TGF‐β1/miR‐21/PDCD4 pathway. This study provides an evidence for testing UA efficacy in vivo and warranting future investigations examining the clinical potential of UA in human gliomas.
The Statistical Power of Inclusive Composite Interval Mapping in Detecting Digenic Epistasis Showing Common F2 Segregation RatiosF
Authors: Zhang Luyan , Li Huihui , Wang Jiankang
Published: February 2012

Epistasis is a commonly observed genetic phenomenon and an important source of variation of complex traits, which could maintain additive variance and therefore assure the long‐term genetic gain in breeding. Inclusive composite interval mapping (ICIM) is able to identify epistatic quantitative trait loci (QTLs) no matter whether the two interacting QTLs have any additive effects. In this article, we conducted a simulation study to evaluate detection power and false discovery rate (FDR) of ICIM epistatic mapping, by considering F2 and doubled haploid (DH) populations, different F2 segregation ratios and population sizes. Results indicated that estimations of QTL locations and effects were unbiased, and the detection power of epistatic mapping was largely affected by population size, heritability of epistasis, and the amount and distribution of genetic effects. When the same likelihood of odd (LOD) threshold was used, detection power of QTL was higher in F2 population than power in DH population; meanwhile FDR in F2 was also higher than that in DH. The increase of marker density from 10 cM to 5 cM led to similar detection power but higher FDR. In simulated populations, ICIM achieved better mapping results than multiple interval mapping (MIM) in estimation of QTL positions and effect. At the end, we gave epistatic mapping results of ICIM in one actual population in rice (Oryza sativa L.).
Evidence for a non-universal stellar initial mass function in low-redshift high-density early-type galaxies
Authors: Dutton Aaron A. , Mendel J. Trevor , Simard Luc
Published: February 2012

We determine an absolute calibration of stellar mass-to-light ratios for the densest ≃3 per cent of early-type galaxies in the local Universe (redshift z≃ 0.08) from Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) Data Release 7. This sample of ∼4000 galaxies has, assuming a Chabrier initial mass function (IMF), effective stellar surface densities Σe > 2500 M⊙ pc−2, stellar population synthesis (SPS) stellar masses log10(MSPS/M⊙) < 10.8 and aperture velocity dispersions of σap = 168+37-34km s-1 (68 per cent range). In contrast to typical early-type galaxies, we show that these dense early-type galaxies follow the virial Fundamental Plane, which suggests that mass follows light. With the additional assumption that any dark matter does not follow the light, the dynamical masses of dense galaxies provide a direct measurement of stellar masses. Our dynamical masses (Mdyn), obtained from the spherical Jeans equations, are only weakly sensitive to the choice of anisotropy (β) due to the relatively large aperture of the SDSS fibre for these galaxies: Rap≃ 1.5Re. Assuming isotropic orbits (β= 0), we find a median log10(Mdyn/MSPS) = 0.233 ± 0.003, consistent with a Salpeter IMF, while more bottom-heavy IMFs and standard Milky Way IMFs are strongly disfavoured. Our results are consistent with, but do not require, a dependence of the IMF on dynamical mass or velocity dispersion. We find evidence for a colour dependence to the IMF such that redder galaxies have heavier IMFs with Mdyn/MSPS∝ (g−r)1.13 ± 0.09. This may reflect a more fundamental dependence of the IMF on the age or metallicity of a stellar population, or the density at which the stars formed.
Aged red garlic extract reduces lipopolysaccharide‐induced nitric oxide production in RAW 264.7 macrophages and acute pulmonary inflammation through haeme oxygenase‐1 induction
Authors: Park H.‐J. , Jeon B. T. , Kim H. C. , Roh G. S. , Shin J.‐H. , Sung N.‐J. , Han J. , Kang D.
Published: February 2012

Aim

It is known that garlic has antioxidative and anti‐inflammatory properties. Aged red garlic (ARG), a novel aged garlic formulation, has higher antioxidant effects than fresh raw garlic. This study was performed to examine the anti‐inflammatory effects of ARG extract (ARGE).

Methods

The anti‐inflammatory effects of ARGE were evaluated in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐treated Raw 264.7 macrophages and acute lung inflammatory mice. NO production was determined by the Griess method, and iNOS, HO‐1 and COX‐2 expressions were measured using Western blot analysis. Histology and inflammation extent of lung were analysed using haematoxylin–eosin staining and immunohistochemistry.

Results

ARGE treatment markedly reduced LPS‐induced nitrite production in RAW 264.7 macrophages and reduced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression. Treatment of cells with ARGE led to a significant increase in haeme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) protein expression, which was mediated by stimulating the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2). Treatment with zinc protoporphyrin, a selective inhibitor of HO‐1, significantly reversed the ARGE‐mediated inhibition of nitrite production (P < 0.05). In LPS‐induced inflammatory mice, ARGE treatment down‐regulated iNOS and COX‐2 expressions, while it up‐regulated HO‐1 expression.

Conclusion

These results show that ARGE reduces LPS‐induced nitric oxide production in RAW 264.7 macrophages through HO‐1 induction and suggest that ARGE may have potential effects on prevention and treatment of acute inflammatory lung injury.
The effect of neutering on the risk of urinary incontinence in bitches – a systematic review
Authors: Beauvais W. , Cardwell J. M. , Brodbelt D. C.
Published: February 2012

An increased risk of urinary incontinence in bitches has often been associated with previous ovariohysterectomy but remains controversial. The objective of this study was to evaluate the strength of evidence for an association between neutering or age at neutering and urinary incontinence in bitches and to estimate the magnitude of any effect found. A systematic review of peer‐reviewed original English analytic journal articles was conducted, based on Cochrane guidelines (Higgins and Green 2009) Of 1,853 records screened, seven studies were identified that examined the effect of neutering or age at neutering on the risk of urinary incontinence but four were judged to be at high risk of bias. Of the remaining three studies, which were at moderate risk of bias, there was some weak evidence that neutering, particularly before the age of three months, increases the risk of urinary incontinence. However, overall the evidence is not consistent nor strong enough to make firm recommendations on the effect of neutering or age at neutering on the risk of urinary incontinence.
CD33‐related siglecs as potential modulators of inflammatory responses
Authors: Crocker Paul R. , McMillan Sarah J. , Richards Hannah E.
Published: February 2012

The immune system must be tightly regulated to prevent unwanted tissue damage caused by exaggerated immune and inflammatory reactions. Inhibitory and activating immune receptors play a crucial role in this function via phosphotyrosine‐dependent signaling pathways. A significant body of evidence has accumulated suggesting that the siglec family of sialic acid binding Ig‐like lectins makes an important contribution to this immunoregulation. The CD33‐related siglecs are a distinct subset of inhibitory and activating receptors, expressed primarily on leukocytes in a cell type‐specific manner. Here, we critically assess the in vitro and in vivo evidence on the functional role for CD33‐related siglecs in modulation of inflammatory and immune responses.
Communicating Hinduism in a Changing Media Context
Authors: Jacobs Stephen
Published: February 2012

New media forms have a range of implications for the way in which the Hindu community is conceived and Hinduism is practiced. Oral modes of communication continue to have a significant role in the communication of Hinduism, however, Hindus have also made effective, and often innovative, use of all media forms. The use of print made by Hindu reformers, such as Rammohun Roy, was an important feature in the conceptualization of Hinduism as a ‘world religion’. Print technology also made possible the proliferation of visual images, which have now become incorporated into the devotional practices of many Hindus. Hindus have also developed unique genres in film and television, drawing on the rich narrative traditions of Hindu mythology. Hinduism can also be found in cyberspace. Online darśan, online pūjā services and other uses of the Internet have enabled Hindus, both in India and in diaspora, to maintain a connection with gurus, sacred places and other aspects of tradition. These developments in communication technologies are important in understanding Hinduism today, and the way in which it has evolved in a global context.
Infectivity phenotypes of H3N2 influenza A viruses in primary swine respiratory epithelial cells are controlled by sialic acid binding
Authors: Bateman Allen C. , Busch Marc G. , Karasin Alexander I. , Olsen Christopher W.
Published: February 2012

Please cite this paper as: Bateman et al. (2012) Infectivity phenotypes of H3N2 influenza A viruses in primary swine respiratory epithelial cells are controlled by sialic acid binding. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 6(6), 424–433.

Background  In the late 1990s, triple reassortant H3N2 influenza A viruses emerged and spread widely in the US swine population. We have shown previously that an isolate representative of this virus‐lineage, A/Swine/Minnesota/593/99 (Sw/MN), exhibits phenotypic differences compared to a wholly human‐lineage H3N2 virus isolated during the same time period, A/Swine/Ontario/00130/97 (Sw/ONT). Specifically, Sw/MN was more infectious for pigs and infected a significantly higher proportion of cultured primary swine respiratory epithelial cells (SRECs). In addition, reverse genetics‐generated Sw/MN × Sw/ONT reassortant and point mutant viruses demonstrated that the infectivity phenotypes in SRECs were strongly dependent on three amino acids within the hemagglutinin (HA) gene.

Objectives  To determine the mechanism by which Sw/MN attains higher infectivity than Sw/ONT in SRECs.

Methods  A/Swine/Minnesota/593/99, Sw/ONT, and mutant (reverse genetics‐generated HA reassortant and point mutant) viruses were compared at various HA‐mediated stages of infection: initial sialic acid binding, virus entry, and the pH of virus–endosome fusion.

Results/Conclusions  Sialic acid binding was the sole stage where virus differences directly paralleled infectivity phenotypes in SRECs, indicating that binding is the primary mechanism responsible for differences in the infectivity levels of Sw/MN and Sw/ONT.