bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of abrupt climate change on the ice‐age vegetation of the Central American lowlands
Authors: Correa‐Metrio Alexander , Bush Mark B. , Hodell David A. , Brenner Mark , Escobar Jaime , Guilderson Tom
Published: November 2011

Aim  To investigate the effects of abrupt climate change in the North Atlantic on the vegetation history of lowland Central America. We use palynological evidence from a Central American lake on the Yucatan Peninsula to evaluate the effects of rapid climate changes during the last ice age, between 65 and 8 ka.

Location  Lake Petén‐Itzá, lowlands of northern Guatemala.

Methods  Sediment core PI‐6 was sampled at c. 170‐year resolution for pollen and charcoal analysis in order to construct a temporal sequence of environmental change. Uni‐ and multivariate statistical analyses were performed on the pollen dataset to test whether there was an association between Heinrich events in the North Atlantic and vegetation changes in the Central American lowlands.

Results  Pollen analysis revealed that the composition of plant assemblages on the Yucatan Peninsula varied in phase with rapid changes in North Atlantic climate. Pine savannas were the main vegetation type between c. 60 and 47 ka. These savannas gave way to pine–oak (Pinus–Quercus) forests in the latter half of the last ice age. Marked episodes of replacement of the pine–oak assemblage by xeric‐tolerant taxa occurred during Heinrich events. The Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) was characterized by mesic conditions.

Main conclusions  The pollen record from Lake Petén‐Itzá showed that vegetation changes associated with Heinrich events were more significant than those associated with the LGM. Each Heinrich event produced a characteristic shift towards xeric taxa. Although colder than Heinrich events, the LGM on the Yucatan Peninsula was relatively moist, and the presumed savannization of the landscape during the maximum cooling of the last glacial was not supported by our data. Our findings suggest alternative scenarios for plant diversification and genetic interchange during glacial times, and also indicate that vegetation in tropical continental settings was not as stable as previously thought.
Efficacy and safety of telaprevir, a new protease inhibitor, for difficult‐to‐treat patients with genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Hayashi N. , Okanoue T. , Tsubouchi H. , Toyota J. , Chayama K. , Kumada H.
Published: November 2011

Summary.  The aims of this phase III study were to assess the efficacy and safety of telaprevir in combination with peginterferon alfa‐2b (PEG‐IFN) and ribavirin (RBV) for difficult‐to‐treat patients who had not achieved sustained virological response (SVR) to prior regimens in Japan. The subjects were 109 relapsers (median age of 57.0 years) and 32 nonresponders (median age of 57.5 years) with hepatitis C virus genotype 1. Patients received telaprevir (750 mg every 8 h) for 12 weeks and PEG‐IFN/RBV for 24 weeks. The SVR rates for relapsers and nonresponders were 88.1% (96/109) and 34.4% (11/32), respectively. Specified dose modifications of RBV that differed from that for the standard of care were introduced to alleviate anaemia. RBV dose reductions were used for 139 of the 141 patients. The SVR rates for relapsers did not depend on RBV dose reduction for 20–100% of the planned dose (SVR rates 87.5–100%, P < 0.05). Skin disorders were observed in 82.3% (116/141). Most of the skin disorders were controllable by anti‐histamine and/or steroid ointments. The ratios of discontinuation of telaprevir only or of all the study drugs because of adverse events were 21.3% (30/141) and 16.3% (23/141), respectively. A frequent adverse event leading to discontinuation was anaemia. Telaprevir in combination with PEG‐IFN/RBV led to a high SVR rate for relapsers and may offer a potential new therapy for nonresponders even with a shorter treatment period.
The virtue of temperance: built‐in negative regulators of quorum sensing in Pseudomonas
Authors: Venturi Vittorio , Rampioni Giordano , Pongor Sándor , Leoni Livia
Published: November 2011

Many bacteria are now believed to produce small signal molecules in order to communicate in a process called quorum sensing (QS), which mediates cooperative traits and a co‐ordinated behaviour. Pseudomonads have been extensively studied for their QS response highlighting that it plays a major role in determining their lifestyle. The main QS signal molecules produced by Pseudomonas belong to the family of N‐acyl‐homoserine lactones (AHLs); these are synthesized by a LuxI‐family synthase and sensed by a LuxR‐family regulator. Most often in Pseudomonas, repressor genes intergenically located between luxI and luxR form an integral part of QS system. Recent studies have highlighted an important role of these repressors (called RsaL and RsaM) in containing the QS response within cost‐effective levels; this is central for pseudomonads as they have very versatile genomes allowing them to live in constantly changing and highly dynamic environments. This review focuses on the role played by RsaL and RsaM repressors and discusses the important implications of this control of the QS response.
Together yes, but not coupled: new insights into the roles of RAD51 and DMC1 in plant meiotic recombination
Authors: Pradillo Mónica , López Eva , Linacero Rosario , Romero Concepción , Cuñado Nieves , Sánchez‐Morán Eugenio , Santos Juan L.
Published: November 2011

The eukaryotic recombinases RAD51 and DMC1 are essential for DNA strand‐exchange between homologous chromosomes during meiosis. RAD51 is also expressed during mitosis, and mediates homologous recombination (HR) between sister chromatids. It has been suggested that DMC1 might be involved in the switch from intersister chromatid recombination in somatic cells to interhomolog meiotic recombination. At meiosis, the Arabidopsis Atrad51 null mutant fails to synapse and has extensive chromosome fragmentation. The Atdmc1 null mutant is also asynaptic, but in this case chromosome fragmentation is absent. Thus in plants, AtDMC1 appears to be indispensable for interhomolog homologous recombination, whereas AtRAD51 seems to be more involved in intersister recombination. In this work, we have studied a new AtRAD51 knock‐down mutant, Atrad51‐2, which expresses only a small quantity of RAD51 protein. Atrad51‐2 mutant plants are sterile and hypersensitive to DNA double‐strand break induction, but their vegetative development is apparently normal. The meiotic phenotype of the mutant consists of partial synapsis, an elevated frequency of univalents, a low incidence of chromosome fragmentation and multivalent chromosome associations. Surprisingly, non‐homologous chromosomes are involved in 51% of bivalents. The depletion of AtDMC1 in the Atrad51‐2 background results in the loss of bivalents and in an increase of chromosome fragmentation. Our results suggest that a critical level of AtRAD51 is required to ensure the fidelity of HR during interchromosomal exchanges. Assuming the existence of asymmetrical DNA strand invasion during the initial steps of recombination, we have developed a working model in which the initial step of strand invasion is mediated by AtDMC1, with AtRAD51 required to check the fidelity of this process.
ZINC TOLERANCE INDUCED BY IRON 1 reveals the importance of glutathione in the cross‐homeostasis between zinc and iron in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Shanmugam Varanavasiappan , Tsednee Munkhtsetseg , Yeh Kuo‐Chen
Published: November 2011

Zinc is an essential micronutrient for plants, but it is toxic in excess concentrations. In Arabidopsis, additional iron (Fe) can increase Zn tolerance. We isolated a mutant, zinc tolerance induced by iron 1, designated zir1, with a defect in Fe‐mediated Zn tolerance. Using map‐based cloning and genetic complementation, we identified that zir1 has a mutation of glutamate to lysine at position 385 on γ‐glutamylcysteine synthetase (GSH1), the enzyme involved in glutathione biosynthesis. The zir1 mutant contains only 15% of the wild‐type glutathione level. Blocking glutathione biosynthesis in wild‐type plants by a specific inhibitor of GSH1, buthionine sulfoximine, resulted in loss of Fe‐mediated Zn tolerance, which provides further evidence that glutathione plays an essential role in Fe‐mediated Zn tolerance. Two glutathione‐deficient mutant alleles of GSH1, pad2‐1 and cad2‐1, which contain 22% and 39%, respectively, of the wild‐type glutathione level, revealed that a minimal glutathione level between 22 and 39% of the wild‐type level is required for Fe‐mediated Zn tolerance. Under excess Zn and Fe, the recovery of shoot Fe contents in pad2‐1 and cad2‐1 was lower than that of the wild type. However, the phytochelatin‐deficient mutant cad1‐3 showed normal Fe‐mediated Zn tolerance. These results indicate a specific role of glutathione in Fe‐mediated Zn tolerance. The induced accumulation of glutathione in response to excess Zn and Fe suggests that glutathione plays a specific role in Fe‐mediated Zn tolerance in Arabidopsis. We conclude that glutathione is required for the cross‐homeostasis between Zn and Fe in Arabidopsis.
Distribution Patterns of Mast Cells in the Uterus of Pregnant Meishan Pigs
Authors: Liu YX , Yu M , Wang C , Peng KM , Liu HZ
Published: November 2011

Contents

The present study was performed to investigate the numerical distribution of mast cells (MCs) in the uteri of pregnant Meishan pigs to explore the functions of MCs in pig pregnancy. The uterine samples from pregnant (on days 15, 26 and 50 of gestation) pigs were obtained respectively and stained with toluidine blue. The results were as follows: MCs were constitutively located in the uterus of the Meishan pig, with the distribution varying with gestational stages. On days 15 and 26 of gestation, MCs were mainly distributed around the blood vessels and uterine glands within the endometrium. On day 50 of gestation, MCs were mostly distributed in the myometrium. These results indicated that uterine MCs possibly have versatile functions in pig pregnancy.
Mitochondria as a source and target of lipid peroxidation products in healthy and diseased heart
Authors: Anderson Ethan J , Katunga Lalage A , Willis Monte S
Published: November 2011

1. The heart is a highly oxidative organ in which cardiomyocyte turnover is virtually absent, making it particularly vulnerable to accumulation of lipid peroxidation products (LPP) formed as a result of oxidative damage.

2. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species are the most common electrophiles formed during lipid peroxidation and lead to the formation of both stable and unstable LPP. Of the LPP formed, highly reactive aldehydes are a well‐recognized causative factor in ageing and age‐associated diseases, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

3. Recent studies have identified that the mitochondria are both a primary source and target of LPP, with specific emphasis on aldehydes in cardiomyocytes and how these affect the electron transport system and Ca2+ balance.

4. Numerous studies have found that there are functional consequences in the heart following exposure to specific aldehydes (acrolein, trans‐2‐hexanal, 4‐hydroxynonenal and acetaldehyde). Because these LPP are known to form in heart failure, cardiac ischaemia–reperfusion injury and diabetes, they may have an underappreciated role in the pathophysiology of these disease processes.

5. Lipid peroxidation products are involved in the transcriptional regulation of endogenous anti‐oxidant systems. Recent evidence demonstrates that transient increases in LPP may be beneficial in cardioprotection by contributing to mitohormesis (i.e. induction of anti‐oxidant systems) in cardiomyocytes. Thus, exploitation of the cardioprotective actions of the LPP may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for future treatment of heart disease.
Effect of surgical repair on testosterone production in infertile men with varicocele: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Fuping , Yue Huanxun , Yamaguchi Kohei , Okada Keisuke , Matsushita Kei , Ando Makoto , Chiba Koji , Fujisawa Masato
Published: November 2011

Objectives:  To determine the effect of surgical varicocele repair in improving testicular Leydig cell function as shown by increased testosterone production.

Methods:  Eligible studies were searched in Medline and the Pubmed database, and cross‐referenced as of 31 May 2011 using the terms “varicocele,”“testosterone” and “surgery.” The database search, quality assessment and data extraction were independently carried out by two reviewers. Only studies including patients with testosterone evaluation before and after surgery were considered for the analysis. A systematic review and meta‐analysis was carried out for continues variables using random effect models.

Results:  Out of 125 studies, a total of nine were selected, including 814 patients. The combined analysis showed that mean serum testosterone levels after surgical treatment increased by 97.48 ng/dL (95% confidence interval 43.73–151.22, P = 0.0004) compared with preoperative levels.

Conclusions:  Surgical treatment of varicocele significantly increases testosterone production and improves testicular Leydig cell function.
Bird diversity patterns in Neotropical temperate farmlands: The role of environmental factors and trophic groups in the spring and autumn
Authors: APELLANIZ MELISA , BELLOCQ M. ISABEL , FILLOY JULIETA
Published: November 2011

Productivity, habitat heterogeneity and environmental similarity are of the most widely accepted hypotheses to explain spatial patterns of species richness and species composition similarity. Environmental factors may exhibit seasonal changes affecting species distributions. We explored possible changes in spatial patterns of bird species richness and species composition similarity. Feeding habits are likely to have a major influence in bird–environment associations and, given that food availability shows seasonal changes in temperate climates, we expect those associations to differ by trophic group (insectivores or granivores). We surveyed birds and estimated environmental variables along line‐transects covering an E‐W gradient of annual precipitation in the Pampas of Argentina during the autumn and the spring. We examined responses of bird species richness to spatial changes in habitat productivity and heterogeneity using regression analyses, and explored potential differences between seasons of those responses. Furthermore, we used Mantel tests to examine the relationship between species composition similarity and both the environmental similarity between sites and the geographic distance between sites, also assessing differences between seasons in those relationships. Richness of insectivorous birds was directly related to primary productivity in both seasons, whereas richness of seed‐eaters showed a positive association with habitat heterogeneity during the spring. Species composition similarity between assemblages was correlated with both productivity similarity and geographic proximity during the autumn and the spring, except for insectivore assemblages. Diversity within main trophic groups seemed to reflect differences in their spatial patterns as a response to changes between seasons in the spatial patterns of food resources. Our findings suggest that considering different seasons and functional groups in the analyses of diversity spatial pattern could contribute to better understand the determinants of biological diversity in temperate climates.
The components of the putative iron transport system in the cyanobacterium Anabaena sp. PCC 7120
Authors: Stevanovic Mara , Hahn Alexander , Nicolaisen Kerstin , Mirus Oliver , Schleiff Enrico
Published: November 2011

Iron uptake in Gram‐negative bacteria involves four distinct steps: (i) siderophore synthesis, (ii) siderophore secretion into the extracellular space, (iii) iron chelation by the siderophores, and (iv) siderophore/iron uptake via complexes in the outer membrane and the intermembrane space as well as in the plasma membrane. This process is well characterized for some proteobacterial systems, but largely unexplored and scarcely investigated in cyanobacteria such as the heterocyst‐forming cyanobacterium Anabaena sp. PCC 7120. Two putative siderophore synthesis clusters have been recently identified in this cyanobacterium. In addition, the export system for the main siderophore, schizokinen, secreted by Anabaena sp. PCC 7120 was described as well as the outer membrane transporter for its import from the extracellular space. We present the identification of components of three additional systems involved in siderophore‐mediated iron uptake under iron‐limiting conditions, namely TonB3, the ExbB3/ExbD3 and the Fhu systems. The transcription level of these genes is elevated under iron limitations and decreased under excess iron, while the expression levels of other members of these gene families and systems are impacted in distinct ways by other environmental conditions. Mutants of the tonB3, exbB3/exbD3 and fhu genes show an iron starvation phenotype. Thus, Anabaena sp. has a similar, yet distinct system for siderophore‐dependent iron uptake compared with other proteobacteria.
External eggshell morphology of Anastrepha fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Figueiredo Julia V. A. , Perondini André L. P. , Ruggiro Eliana M. , Prezotto Leandro F. , Selivon Denise
Published: November 2011

Figueiredo J.V.A., Perondini A.L.P., Ruggiro EM., Prezotto LF. and Selivon D. (2011). External eggshell morphology of Anastrepha fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae). —Acta Zoologica (Stockholm) 00:1–9.

The eggshell external morphology of Anastrepha species of different taxonomic intrageneric groups was determined by light and scanning electron microscopy. The eggs of Anastrepha alveata Stone and A. consobrina (Loew) are described for the first time, and a more detailed description of previously studied eggs from A. amita Zucchi, A. pickeli Lima, A. bistrigata Bezzi, A. grandis (Macquart), A. obliqua (Macquart), A. pseudoparallela (Loew), A. striata Schiner, A. suspensa (Loew), and A. zenildae Zucchi is presented. Several relatively plastic morphological characters of the eggs were discerned, such as length, width, tapering, curvature, chorion ornamentation, respiratory lobes, and position of the micropyle. Scores were attributed to these characters, allowing a comparison of egg morphology among 17 species of Anastrepha. A cluster analysis based on these scores did not group the eggs according to the taxonomic intrageneric groups of the species. Nonetheless, this analysis indicated that the egg of each species can be described by a set of morphological scores. The possibility of species identificaton using immature stages will be of great help for the taxonomy of Anastrepha fruit flies.
BMEY as a fisheries management target
Authors: Grafton Quentin R , Kompas Tom , Che Tuong N , Chu Long , Hilborn Ray
Published: November 2011

This paper evaluates the implications of managing fisheries to achieve a BMEY target, or a biomass level that maximizes net economic returns in the fishery, and discusses the role of private ownership and the trade‐offs between economic and conservation benefits in this setting. The paper shows how a BMEY target can be used to: (i) determine relative employment and profitability measures; (ii) account for both the harvesting and processing sectors; and (iii) incorporate the interests of consumers and producers of fish. The profits–employment trade‐off of adopting a BMEY target vs. a traditional BMSY target is calculated using a model and data from the Western and Central Pacific tuna fisheries (WCPTF), while a generic bioeconomic model is constructed to show numerical values of BMEY from including processing and/or retail sectors and the consumer benefits of harvesting fish. For the WCPTF, results show that the long‐term gains per job lost from pursuing a BMEY target are worth several times the value of the average GDP per capita of Pacific Island Countries. The generic bioeconomic model shows that including a processing and/or retail sector, as well as measures of consumer benefit, lowers the BMEY target. However, there remains a broad range of parameter values for which BMEY is still greater than biomass at maximum sustainable yield, or BMSY. The paper also illustrates cases where BMEY > BMSY at different values of the price elasticity of demand, margins for processing and/or retail sectors and values of the discount rate.
Increasing fish consumption for better health – are we being advised to eat more of an inherently unsustainable protein?
Authors: Mitchell M.
Published: November 2011

The health benefits of fish consumption are manifold and well understood from scientific and nutritional perspectives. Yet, seafood is the last great hunted human food resource, and a number of the world's fisheries are currently depleted through overfishing. There is a dilemma for consumers who, in line with UK Government advice, wish to eat seafood as a healthy, nutritious (and tasty) lifestyle choice and their concerns over the sustainability of the fish that they enjoy. This paper explores this dilemma by examining the status of world seafood stocks and discussing some of the strategies used by seafood retailers and brands to ensure that responsible and sustainable choices are available for the UK consumer.
Does consuming seasonal foods benefit the environment? Insights from recent research
Authors: Brooks M. , Foster C. , Holmes M. , Wiltshire J.
Published: November 2011

The profile of seasonal foods has been raised in recent years, with information about ‘in‐season’ produce being made available to consumers through a variety of channels, including television programmes, magazine articles and websites. ‘Eating seasonally’ has also increasingly been encouraged by government initiatives and supported by other agencies and organisations. This article draws on findings of recent research by ADAS, EuGeos and SERIO to explore the notion of ‘seasonal food’ and probe the link between ‘eating seasonally’ and a reduction of environmental impacts in the food chain.
Long‐term gendered consequences of permanent disabilities caused by the 2005 Pakistan earthquake
Authors: Irshad Humaira , Mumtaz Zubia , Levay Adrienne
Published: November 2011

This study documents the long‐term gendered impact of the 2005 Pakistan earthquake on women and men who were rendered paraplegic as a result of spinal cord injuries sustained during the disaster. Coping mechanisms are also mapped. The findings show that three years after the disaster, paraplegic women are socially, emotionally, and financially isolated. The small stipend they receive is a significant source of income, but it has also led to marital distrust, violence, and abuse. In contrast, men receive full social and emotional support. Their key concern is that the government is not providing them with opportunities to be economically productive. Contemporary discourse and post‐disaster policies, while acknowledging the importance of incorporating a gender perspective in the immediate post‐disaster period, have failed to acknowledge and address the longer‐term gendered impact of disasters, in terms of the different types of impact and strategies adopted by women and men.
Age standardization in mapping adult overweight and obesity trends in the WHO European Region
Authors: Doak C. M. , Wijnhoven T. M. A. , Schokker D. F. , Visscher T. L. S. , Seidell J. C.
Published: November 2011

This study aims to improve comparability of available data within the World Health Organization (WHO) European Region taking into account differences related to the aging of the population. Surveys were included if they were conducted on adults aged 25–64 years between 1985 and 2010 in the WHO European Region. Overweight/obesity prevalences were adjusted to the European standard population aged 25–64. Data were entered for each of the 5‐year categories between 1981 and 2010. Measured height and weight data were available for males in 16 and females in 24 of the 53 countries. The 50–64‐year‐olds had higher prevalence of overweight and obesity as compared to the 25–49‐year‐olds. This pattern occurs in every country, by male and female, in almost all surveys. Age‐standardized overweight prevalence was higher among males than females in all countries. Trend data showed increases in most countries. Age‐standardized maps were based on self‐reported data because of insufficient availability of measured data. Results showed more countries with available data as well as the higher category of obesity in the later surveys. Measured values are needed and age adjustment is important in documenting emerging overweight and obesity trends, independent of demographic changes, in the WHO European Region.
Consistent Point Clouds of Narrow Spaces Using Multiscan Domain Mapping
Authors: Sareen Kuldeep K. , Knopf George K. , Canas Roberto
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  Three‐dimensional (3D) range scanning of large spaces, such as civil structures, generates an immense cloud of 3D points with inconsistent data densities due to the limited positions of the stationary scanner, inaccessible surfaces, and narrow pathways. This density variation is the dominant detrimental factor in extracting accurate scanned shapes. This article introduces an effective scan planning methodology for capturing accurate geometry from long and narrow spaces, which minimizes the need for subsequent data approximations. The technique computes an optimum scanning range for each stationary position of the scanner that limits the density variation to a user‐defined value. Three cases are proposed to define the “limited data density” and a FARO®‐LS880 laser scanner is used to illustrate the proposed approach that achieves acceptable scanning results in terms of its critical shape capturing capability, overall point cloud density, and accurate point‐based visualization. The experimental observations confirm that the accuracy of the scanned data can be improved by registering multiple partial scans with restricted density and positioning the data acquisition device close to the critical features. The latter recommended step decreases the incident angle to the world domain, which, in turn, reduces the surface occlusions and data density variations.
How Portugal Became an ‘Unplanned Country’: A Critique of Scholarship on Portuguese Urban Development and Planning
Authors: BAPTISTA IDALINA
Published: November 2011

In this article, I seek to expose how scholars came to construct the idea that Portugal is an ‘unplanned country’— a product of disorderly growth. While urban scholarship has now challenged the hegemonic view of spatial order as a proxy for modernity, development and progress, Portuguese scholarship has remained largely impervious to these debates as it consistently offers a view of the Portuguese city as ‘not quite yet’ modern and civilized. Based on a review of accounts by key authors recognized for their prominence and contribution to contemporary Portuguese scholarship, I argue that rather than being a constitutive fact of or truth about the Portuguese urban condition, the ‘unplanned country’ operates as an intellectual and discursive construct that organizes the experience of modernity, urban growth and social transformation throughout the twentieth century. The article discusses how Portuguese scholarship constructs the ‘unplanned country’ idea through insufficient engagement with relevant research and debates in urban studies and is based on several empirical shortcomings. The article concludes by offering a preliminary research agenda to address these imbalances. I suggest that such efforts could enhance the relevance and contribution of the Portuguese urban experience to recent calls for epistemological renewal in urban theory production.

Cet article explique comment les chercheurs ont bâti l'idée que le Portugal est un ‘pays sans planification’, le résultat d'une croissance confuse. La recherche urbaine a désormais bousculé la vision hégémonique de l'ordre spatial comme indicateur de modernité, de développement et de progrès, mais la plupart des auteurs portugais sont restés hermétiques à ces débats, puisqu'ils dépeignent systématiquement la ville portugaise comme ‘pas encore tout à fait’ moderne et civilisée. En analysant les travaux d'auteurs déterminants, reconnus pour leur importance et leur contribution à la recherche portugaise contemporaine, cette étude préconise que, loin d'être un fait constitutif ou une vérité pour la situation urbaine portugaise, le ‘pays sans planification’ agit comme une notion intellectuelle et rhétorique qui structure l'expérience de modernité, de croissance et de transformation sociale au cours du XXe siècle. L'idée de ‘pays sans planification’ est née d'un manque d'implication dans la recherche et dans les débats pertinents en sciences urbaines, ainsi que de plusieurs erreurs empiriques à la base de certaines démonstrations. La conclusion propose un programme d'études préliminaires pour remédier à ces anomalies. Ces travaux pourraient renforcer l'intérêt et l'apport de l'expérience urbaine portugaise dans le cadre de récents appels à un renouveau épistémologique dans la production de théories urbaines.
The SWIFT Affair and the Global Politics of European Security*
Authors: DE GOEDE MARIEKE
Published: November 2011

This article examines the ‘SWIFT affair’, whereby United States security authorities acquired access to financial data of European citizens, and argues that it is a powerful lens through which to understand current shifts in European security governing. The affair demonstrates the institutional challenges produced by the deployment of private, commercial data for security, and analyzes the ad hoc innovations produced in European Union (EU) governing as a result. Furthermore, the SWIFT affair has allowed the EU to position itself in the global security landscape as a normative power that promotes the values of privacy and data protection. However, the development of a European Terrorism Financing Tracking System, coupled with the way in which the EU itself is keenly implementing risk‐based and data‐led internal security measures, means that critical attention to the EU's own security practices remains urgent.
Annual Research Review: Impact of advances in genetics in understanding developmental psychopathology
Authors: Addington Anjené M. , Rapoport Judith L.
Published: November 2011

It was hoped that diagnostic guidelines for, and treatment of, child psychiatric disorders in DSM‐5 would be informed by the wealth of clinical genetic research related to neurodevelopmental disorders. In spite of remarkable advances in genetic technology, this has not been the case. Candidate gene, genome‐wide association, and rare copy number variant (CNV) studies have been carried out for attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Autism, Tourette’s Syndrome, and schizophrenia, with intriguing results, but environmental factors, incomplete penetrance, pleiotropy, and genetic heterogeneity, underlying any given phenotype have limited clinical translation. One promising approach may be the use of developmental brain imaging measures as more relevant phenotypes. This is particularly important, as subtle abnormalities in timing and expression of gene pathways underlying brain development may well link these disorders and be the ultimate target of treatments.
Annual Research Review: Conceptualising functional impairment in children and adolescents
Authors: Rapee Ronald M. , Bőgels Susan M. , van der Sluis Cathy M. , Craske Michelle G. , Ollendick Thomas
Published: November 2011

Functional impairment is a key factor in the clinical importance of mental health problems in children. Yet, the nature of impairment and criteria for defining and assessing impairment in childhood disorders has been surprisingly overlooked in much of the literature. The current article examines the extant literature on the conceptualisation, nature and assessment of impairment in childhood disorders. Relations between diagnostic symptoms and functional impairment are discussed together with the influence of impairment on diagnostic decisions and prevalence rates. Several factors influencing impairment in childhood such as culture, development and gender are considered. This article concludes with a discussion of the utility of separating judgements of impairment from specific diagnoses, which is proposed for consideration in the forthcoming DSM‐5.
Lifetime return on investment increases with leaf lifespan among 10 Australian woodland species
Authors: Falster Daniel S. , Reich Peter B. , Ellsworth David S. , Wright Ian J. , Westoby Mark , Oleksyn Jacek , Lee Tali D.
Published: November 2011

Co‐occurring species often differ in their leaf lifespan (LL) and it remains unclear how such variation is maintained in a competitive context. Here we test the hypothesis that leaves of long‐LL species yield a greater return in carbon (C) fixed per unit C or nutrient invested by the plant than those of short‐LL species.

For 10 sympatric woodland species, we assessed three‐dimensional shoot architecture, canopy openness, leaf photosynthetic light response, leaf dark respiration and leaf construction costs across leaf age sequences. We then used the YPLANT model to estimate light interception and C revenue along the measured leaf age sequences. This was done under a series of simulations that incorporated the potential covariates of LL in an additive fashion.

Lifetime return in C fixed per unit C, N or P invested increased with LL in all simulations.

In contrast to other recent studies, our results show that extended LL confers a fundamental economic advantage by increasing a plant’s return on investment in leaves. This suggests that time‐discounting effects, that is, the compounding of income that arises from quick reinvestment of C revenue, are key in allowing short‐LL species to succeed in the face of this economic handicap.
Light interception efficiency explained by two simple variables: a test using a diversity of small‐ to medium‐sized woody plants
Authors: Duursma R. A. , Falster D. S. , Valladares F. , Sterck F. J. , Pearcy R. W. , Lusk C. H. , Sendall K. M. , Nordenstahl M. , Houter N. C. , Atwell B. J. , Kelly N. , Kelly J. W. G. , Liberloo M. , Tissue D. T. , Medlyn B. E. , Ellsworth D. S.
Published: November 2011

Plant light interception efficiency is a crucial determinant of carbon uptake by individual plants and by vegetation. Our aim was to identify whole‐plant variables that summarize complex crown architecture, which can be used to predict light interception efficiency.

We gathered the largest database of digitized plants to date (1831 plants of 124 species), and estimated a measure of light interception efficiency with a detailed three‐dimensional model. Light interception efficiency was defined as the ratio of the hemispherically averaged displayed to total leaf area. A simple model was developed that uses only two variables, crown density (the ratio of leaf area to total crown surface area) and leaf dispersion (a measure of the degree of aggregation of leaves).

The model explained 85% of variation in the observed light interception efficiency across the digitized plants. Both whole‐plant variables varied across species, with differences in leaf dispersion related to leaf size. Within species, light interception efficiency decreased with total leaf number. This was a result of changes in leaf dispersion, while crown density remained constant.

These results provide the basis for a more general understanding of the role of plant architecture in determining the efficiency of light harvesting.
Lupus Erythematosus Panniculitis in Children: Report of Three Cases and Review of Previously Reported Cases
Authors: Weingartner Joshua S. , Zedek Daniel C. , Burkhart Craig N. , Morrell Dean S.
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  Lupus erythematosus panniculitis (LEP) is a rare finding in children, with only 12 fully reported prior cases in the English literature. We describe three cases of LEP in children younger than 18 and compare them to previous cases reported in the literature. We examine laboratory tests performed, biopsy results, age at onset and diagnosis, presence or absence of systemic symptoms, and outcomes after treatment. It is unknown what the risk is of these patients developing future systemic lupus erythematosus. We also discuss the relevance of subcutaneous panniculitis‐like T‐cell lymphoma, because the clinical and pathologic pictures are similar in presentation.
Atypical Molluscum Contagiosum Accompanied by CD30‐Positive Lymphoid Infiltrates
Authors: Kim Myoung Shin , Noh Tai Kyung , Won Chong Hyun , Chang Sungeun , Lee Mi Woo , Choi Jee Ho , Moon Kee Chan
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  Atypical presentations of molluscum contagiosum require histophathologic examination and may show pleomorphic lymphocytic infiltrates of a reactive nature, mimicking cutaneous lymphoproliferative diseases. Serial sections of specimens or polymerase chain reactions to show T‐cell receptor clonality may be helpful for differential diagnosis. We report a case of atypical molluscum contagiosum accompanied by atypical lymphocytic infiltration showing CD30 positivity.
Rat Bite Fever: Fever, Arthritis, and Rash in a 4‐Year‐Old Boy
Authors: Lewis Bethany K.H. , Vanderhooft Sheryll
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  Rat bite fever is a rare but potentially fatal Gram‐negative infection that predominantly affects populations with exposure to rats, notably children. The clinical presentation is nonspecific and requires a high threshold of suspicion to elicit a history of rat exposure. We report here a case of a child whose diagnosis was made retrospectively but with good outcome.
Acral Peeling Skin Syndrome: A Clinically and Genetically Heterogeneous Disorder
Authors: Pavlovic Sasha , Krunic Aleksandar L. , Bulj Tanja K. , Medenica Maria M. , Fong Kenneth , Arita Ken , McGrath John A.
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  Acral peeling skin syndrome (APSS) is a rare, autosomal, recessive genodermatosis characterized by painless spontaneous exfoliation of the skin of the hands and feet at a subcorneal or intracorneal level. It usually presents at birth or appears later in childhood or early adulthood. Some cases result from mutations in the TGM5 gene that encodes transglutaminase 5, which has an important role in cross‐linking cornified cell envelope proteins. We report a new APSS pedigree from Jordan that contains at least 10 affected family members, although sequencing of the TGM5 gene failed to disclose any pathogenic mutation(s). On the basis of probable consanguinity, we performed homozygosity mapping and identified areas of homozygosity on chromosomes 1, 6, 10, 13, and 16, although none of the intervals contained genes of clear relevance to cornification. APSS is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorder, and this Jordanian pedigree underscores the likelihood of still further heterogeneity.
Bisphosphonates and Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
Authors: Shannon Jodi , Shannon John , Modelevsky Steven , Grippo Anne A.
Published: November 2011

Bisphosphonates are used worldwide as a successful treatment for people with osteoporosis, which is the major underlying cause of fractures in postmenopausal women and older adults. These agents are successful at increasing bone mass and bone trabecular thickness, decreasing the risk of fracture, and decreasing bone pain, enabling individuals to have better quality of life. Bisphosphonates are also used to treat multiple myeloma, bone metastasis, and Paget's disease; however, bisphosphonate treatment may result in negative side effects, including osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). ONJ involves necrotic, exposed bone in the jaw, pain, possible secondary infection, swelling, painful lesions, and various dysesthesias, although less‐severe cases may be asymptomatic. First‐generation bisphosphonates, which do not contain nitrogen, are metabolized into a nonfunctional, cytotoxic analogue of adenosine triphosphate and cause osteoclast death by starvation. Second‐generation bisphosphonates are nitrogen‐containing agents; these inhibit osteoclast vesicular trafficking, membrane ruffling, morphology, and cytoskeletal arrangement by inhibiting farnesyl diphosphate synthase in the mevalonate pathway. Physicians treating older adults with osteoporosis and cancer should work together with dental practitioners, pharmacists, and other clinicians to inform individuals receiving bisphosphonates of their possible side effects and to suggest precautionary steps that may minimize the risk of osteonecrosis, particularly of the jaw. These include practicing good oral hygiene; scheduling regular dental examinations and cleanings; and cautioning people who are scheduling treatment for periodontal disease, oral and maxillofacial therapy, endodontics, implant placement, restorative dentistry, and prosthodontics. Recommendations for management of people with ONJ include an oral rinse, such as chlorhexidine, and antibiotics.
Prognostic Value of Pulsed Tissue Doppler Imaging for the Assessment of Left Ventricular Systolic Function in Patients with Nonischemic Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Ballo Piercarlo , Guarini Giacinta , Simioniuc Anca , Gistri Tommaso , Fontanive Paolo , Di Bello Vitantonio , Dini Frank Lloyd , Marzilli Mario
Published: November 2011

There is still some debate regarding the prognostic significance of left ventricular longitudinal systolic dysfunction as assessed by tissue Doppler (TD) imaging in patients with chronic heart failure (HF), since previous studies have included patients with postischemic wall motion abnormalities. Thus, this study was designed to ascertain whether TD‐derived longitudinal systolic dysfunction may influence the outcome of patients with nonischemic chronic HF. In 200 consecutive patients with chronic HF secondary to dilated cardiomyopathy and no history of ischemic heart disease, peak systolic mitral annular velocity (Sm) was measured by pulsed TD at the septal and lateral annular sites. The end points were cardiac death or hospitalization for worsening HF. Mean follow‐up duration was 30 months. In a time independent analysis, averaged Sm calculated as the average of septal and lateral Sm, resulted to be a significant predictor of outcome in the study population (area under receiver–operator characteristic curve: cardiovascular death, 0.69, P < 0.0001; cardiovascular events, 0.64, P = 0.0005). In a time‐dependent analysis, average Sm was associated with both cardiovascular death (hazard ratio 0.832, P = 0.0019) and cardiovascular events (hazard ratio 0.904, P = 0.039), independently of other clinical risk factors and echocardiographic parameters of systolic function. Septal Sm but not lateral Sm was independently associated with the outcome measures. In conclusion, the assessment of systolic mitral annular velocity by pulsed TD is a useful indicator for prognostic stratification of patients with nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy and chronic HF. (Echocardiography 2012;29:291‐297)
Myocardial Systolic Velocities and Deformation Assessed by Speckle Tracking for Early Detection of Left Ventricular Dysfunction in Asymptomatic Patients with Severe Primary Mitral Regurgitation
Authors: Florescu Maria , Benea Diana Crina Ciresica Mihaela , Rimbas Roxana Cristina , Cerin Gheorghe , Diena Marco , Lanzzillo Guido , Enescu Oana Aurelia , Cinteza Mircea , Vinereanu Dragos
Published: November 2011

Aims: In asymptomatic patients with severe primary mitral regurgitation (PMR), early detection of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction indicates the optimal timing of mitral valve surgery; however, normal ejection fraction (EF) and end‐systolic diameter (ESD) can mask significant LV impairment. Methods: We studied 28 asymptomatic patients (59 ± 13 years, 18 male) with severe PMR, EF > 60%, and ESD < 45 mm, and 10 age‐matched healthy subjects. All underwent echocardiography with tissue velocity imaging to assess LV geometry, EF, and longitudinal systolic function; and two‐dimensional speckle tracking to assess longitudinal strain (LS) and longitudinal strain rate (LSR), and radial strain (RS) and radial strain rate (RSR). Patients were reevaluated 14 days after successful mitral valve repair and divided in: IA, with a postoperative EF reduction >10% (13 patients) and IB, with an EF reduction <10% (15 patients). Results: Patients with PMR had longitudinal dysfunction and decreased radial systolic deformation, by comparison with controls, although EF and ESD were similar. Subgroup IA had significantly lower STVI, LS, and RS than IB (7.3 ± 0.9 vs 10.8 ± 1.5 m/s; −16.0 ± 4.2% vs −21.7 ± 2.1%; and 37.4 ± 2.5% vs 41.6 ± 2.4%; all p < 0.001) although preoperative LV mass index, LV diameters, and EF were similar. Multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that STVI and the combination of STVI and LS represent the main independent predictors for a postoperative EF reduction >10% (r2= 0.52, p < 0.001; and r2= 0.70, p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: Myocardial systolic velocities as well as radial and longitudinal LV deformation assessed by speckle tracking can detect subclinical LV dysfunction and predict impaired postoperative LV function in asymptomatic patients with severe PMR. (Echocardiography 2012;29:326‐333)
Predictors for the Development of Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation with Anatomically Normal Valve in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Najib Mohammad Q. , Vinales Karyne L. , Vittala Satya S. , Challa Suresh , Lee Howard R. , Chaliki Hari P.
Published: November 2011

Background and Aims: Atrial fibrillation (AF) may be a risk factor for severe functional tricuspid valve regurgitation (FTR). We aimed to determine the predictors of severe FTR in patients with AF. Methods and Results: From our echocardiographic laboratory database, we searched for and reviewed the medical records of consecutive patients with severe FTR and AF seen at Mayo Clinic in Arizona from 2002 through 2009. Our search identified 42 patients who met all inclusion criteria. These patients (cases) with severe FTR and AF were compared with 38 patients (controls) with AF who had no greater than mild tricuspid regurgitation. Case patients with severe FTR were older than controls (mean, 81 years vs. 76 years; P < 0.001) and more frequently had chronic AF (69% vs 26%; P < 0.001). Mean right atrial volume (86 mL/m2 vs 46 mL/m2; P < 0.001), right ventricular volume (42 mL ± 33 mL vs 22 mL ±8 mL; P < 0.001) and tricuspid annular diameter (3.6 cm vs 3.0 cm; P < 0.001) were larger in cases than in controls. Patients with severe FTR also had a higher prevalence of right‐sided heart failure (69% vs 16%; P < 0.001). After adjusting for age and gender, right atrial and right ventricular volumes were independent predictors for the development of severe FTR in patients with AF (odds ratio, 1.7 [95% CI, 1.3–2.8] for every 10 mL/m2 increase in right atrial volume; P = 0.0002 and odds ratio, 3.1 [95% CI, 1.5–8.9] for every 10 mL increase in right ventricular volume; P = 0.0002). Conclusions: Severe FTR occurs in older patients with chronic AF as a result of marked right atrial and right ventricular dilatation; and enlargement of the tricuspid annulus in the absence of pulmonary hypertension. More importantly, severe FTR leads to increased prevalence of right‐sided heart failure underscoring the nonbenign nature of chronic AF. (Echocardiography 2012;29:140‐146)