bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards a comprehensive developmental model of cannabis use disorders
Authors: Blanco Carlos , Rafful Claudia , Wall Melanie M. , Ridenour Ty A. , Wang Shuai , Kendler Kenneth S.
Published: October 2013

Aims

To develop a comprehensive risk‐factor model of cannabis use disorders (CUD) based on Kendler's development model for major depression.

Design

Risk factors were divided into five developmental tiers based on Kendler's model of depression (childhood, early adolescence, late adolescence, adulthood, past year). Hierarchical logistic regression models were used to examine the independent contribution of each risk factor. Separate models were built to predict the lifetime risk of cannabis use and the risk of CUD among those with a history of lifetime risk of cannabis use.

Setting

Data were drawn from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC) in the United States.

Participants

Participants consisted of wave 2 of the NESARC (n = 34 653).

Measurements

Odds ratios (OR), Adjusted OR (AOR) and confidence intervals (95% CI) were used to determine the risk factors in each tier and with multiple models.

Findings

After mutually adjusting for the effect of other risk factors, lifetime history of drug use disorder (AOR = 4.78, 95% CI = 1.53–14.91), past year alcohol use disorders (AOR = 6.55, 95% CI = 2.54–16.89) and independent (AOR = 1.57, 95% CI = 1.15–2.14) and dependent (AOR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.01–1.55) stressful life events predicted lifetime cannabis use. Impulsivity (AOR = 2.18, 95% CI = 1.34–3.53), past year alcohol use disorders (AOR = 4.09, 95% CI = 2.29–7.31), greater number of Axis I disorders (AOR = 1.56, 95% CI = 1.01–2.40) and social deviance (AOR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.08–1.32) independently increased the risk of the development of CUD, whereas religious service attendance (AOR = 0.50, 95% CI = 0.30–0.85) decreased this risk. In both models, the effect of earlier development tiers was mediated by more proximal ones. There were few gender differences in both models.

Conclusions

A modification of Kendler's risk factor model for major depression which stratifies risk factors into five groups (childhood, early adolescence, late adolescence, adulthood, past year) provides a useful foundation for a comprehensive developmental model of cannabis use and cannabis use disorders.
The Making of the Institutional Theory of Social Costs: Discovering the K. W. Kapp and J. M. Clark Correspondence
Authors: Berger Sebastian
Published: October 2013

This article reconstructs the making of the often “overlooked” institutional theory of social costs based on the unexploited correspondence between John Maurice Clark and Karl William Kapp. The reconstruction demonstrates that the institutional argument on social costs was developed as a critique of neoclassical economics and of post‐WWII neoliberalism.
Does lamellar surgery for keratoconus experience the popularity it deserves?
Authors: Wisse Robert P. L. , van den Hoven Célinde M. L. , Van der Lelij Allegonda
Published: October 2013

Purpose

To analyse developments in surgical treatment for keratoconus (KC) by assessing rates and types of corneal surgery from 2005 to 2010.

Methods

The Dutch Transplantation Foundation supplied data on all keratoplasty procedures for KC performed from 2005 to 2010 in the Netherlands. Registration was carried out by the eyebank at allocation and by the surgeon at the time of surgery. The type of surgery was categorized as either a penetrating or a lamellar procedure.

Results

Five hundred and seventy‐five anonymized records were received, with excellent data completion (99%). Patients undergoing penetrating surgery had on average a lower visual acuity, higher k‐readings and were slightly older compared with the lamellar group. A previous corneal hydrops was recorded for 19.1% of patients. Regular penetrating keratoplasty decreased in popularity from 79.7% in 2005 to 43.7% in 2010, due to the increased rate of lamellar surgery (42.5% in 2010) and ‘mushroom’ penetrating keratoplasty (13.8% in 2010). When hydrops cases were excluded, popularity became equal (47.6% penetrating versus 52.4% lamellar surgery, in 2010).

Conclusion

Lamellar surgery is gaining in popularity, although regular penetrating keratoplasty is still the more commonly performed procedure. Only when hydrops cases are excluded do transplant rates become comparable.
Evolution of the Thompson score during the first 6 h in infants with perinatal asphyxia
Authors: Biselele Thérèse , Naulaers Gunnar , Tady Bruno
Published: October 2013

Aim

This study aimed to determine the evolution of the Thompson score, which provides composite grading of encephalopathy signs, during the first 6 h of birth in neonates with perinatal asphyxia.

Methods

Twenty term infants with perinatal asphyxia were prospectively studied from the University Hospital of Kinshasa during a 12‐month period. The Thompson score was performed after 1 h, then hourly until 6 h of birth.

Results

Fourteen infants had a Thompson score ≥7 and six had a score <7 after 1 h of birth. The Thompson score remained higher than 7 after 3 h in nine infants (64.3%) and in four infants (25.6%) after 6 h. After 3 h of birth, four infants moved from a score ≥7 to a score below 7. After 6 h, five infants had a score below 7. Seventy per cent of patients had a Thompson score higher than 7 after 1 h, 45% after 3 h and 20% after 6 h.

Conclusion

The Thompson score changes over the time during the first 6 h of birth, and this should be taken into account when it is being used as an entry criterion for cooling.
Poor school performance is associated with a larger gain in body mass index during puberty
Authors: Kark M , Hjern A , Rasmussen F
Published: October 2013

Aim

Social inequalities in type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease may be established in formative school years. We investigated whether school performance is associated with adiposity and increase in body mass index (BMI) between 10 and 15 years of age.

Methods

A community sample of 2633 school children had height and weight measured in school at the ages of 10 and 15. Percentages of body fat and waist circumference were measured at the age of 15. Mean grades in several school subjects at the age of 15 (ninth school year) were divided into quartiles. A linear regression analysis with BMI as the main outcome took into account parental education and ethnicity, obtained from registers, and children's living habits, collected by questionnaires.

Results

In adjusted models, longitudinal changes in BMI between the ages of 10 and 15 were larger in the lowest quartiles of school grades compared with the highest: for girls, they were β = 0.45 (p = 0.007) and for boys they were β = 0.45 (p = 0.016). Cross‐sectional regression analyses, with percentage of body fat and waist circumference as outcomes, showed similar results.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that school performance is one pathway to social inequalities in obesity in school children.
The Intentional Use of Lead–tin Orange in Indian Islamic Glazes and Its Preliminary Characterization
Authors: Gill M. S. , Rehren Th.
Published: October 2013

We describe the historical appearance, composition and texture of a little‐known orange pigment in 17th‐century northern India. The pigment shares similarities with lead–tin yellow type II, but has between 6 and 7 wt% zinc oxide instead of silica as a minor element in its structure, in addition to the dominant lead and tin oxide. The consistency of its occurrence and composition across several important and highly decorated monuments and relatively wide chronological and geographical ranges of use indicate the controlled and intentional production of this pigment. We propose to use the name lead–tin orange for this material, indicating its similarity to lead–tin yellow but highlighting its independent character and distinct colour.
Understanding heterogeneity in social anxiety disorder: Dependency and self‐criticism moderate fear responses to interpersonal cues
Authors: Kopala‐Sibley Daniel C. , Zuroff David C. , Russell Jennifer J. , Moskowitz D. S.
Published: October 2013

Objective

This study examined how the personality traits of self‐criticism and dependency moderated the effects of situational interpersonal cues on fear during interpersonal interactions among individuals with social anxiety disorder (SAD). We hypothesized that self‐criticism would moderate the fear‐inducing effects of situational self‐consciousness and that dependency would moderate the fear‐inducing effects of situational emotional insecurity.

Methods

FortySADpatients (Mage = 29.23) and matched community controls (Mage = 28.93) completed event‐contingent record forms after each significant social interaction of over 5 min for a 20‐day period. There were 20 female patients and 20 male patients in each group.

Results

Event‐level self‐consciousness was more strongly associated with elevations in fear among socially anxious patients who reported higher levels of self‐criticism, while event‐level emotional security was more strongly associated with decreases in fear amongSADpatients who reported higher levels of dependency. These interactions were not found in the community sample.

Conclusions

Findings support the application of personality‐vulnerability models to understanding fear during social interactions in patients withSAD. Results also have implications for psychotherapeutic treatments ofSAD.

Practitioner points

Although social anxiety disorder (SAD) patients are on average more self‐critical and dependent than community participants, some SAD patients are particularly self‐critical, while others are particularly dependent.

Highly self‐critical SAD patients are more likely to feel fear during interpersonal situations when they feel self‐conscious.

Highly dependent SAD patients are more likely to feel fear during interpersonal interactions when they feel less emotionally secure.

SAD patients were compared to a community sample, so we do not know if group differences are due to the presence of SAD or psychopathology in general.
Effects of transformational and transactional leadership on cognitive effort and outcomes during collaborative learning within a virtual world
Authors: Kahai Surinder , Jestire Rebecca , Huang Rui
Published: October 2013

Computer‐supported collaborative learning is a common e‐learning activity. Instructors have to create appropriate social and instructional interventions in order to promote effective learning. We performed a study that examined the effects of two popular leadership interventions, transformational and transactional, on cognitive effort and outcomes during collaborative learning within a virtual world. Our results indicate that while transformational leadership increases cognitive effort, transactional leadership reduces it. Cognitive effort, in turn, improves decision quality but it also lengthens the discussion and reduces discussion satisfaction. Transformational and transactional leadership also affect discussion satisfaction directly and positively.
Harrell, Lisa (2013) A learner centered approach to online educationIAP (Charlotte, NC & Eurospan, London) isbn 978‐1‐62396‐292‐0 138 pp $85.99 boards (paper $39.09) http://www.infoagepub.com/products/A‐Learner‐Centered‐Approach‐To‐Online‐Education
Authors: Cowan John
Published: October 2013

The writer sets out to provide a valuable resource for readers interested in teaching online, and for those already doing so. Her book features copious and current sources drawn from US writers and practice, much equally relevant to face‐to‐face situations. Its style ranges from comprehensive scholarly overviewing to basic instruction featuring writer‐directed activities. If the content of this book is likely to interest you, I recommend you arrange to borrow a copy.

John Cowan
Ingle, Steve & Duckworth, Vicky (2013) Enhancing learning through technology in lifelong learningOpen University Press (McGraw‐Hill Maidenhead UK & New York) isbn 978‐033352‐4640‐3 145 pp £21.99 http://www.mcgraw‐hill.co.uk/html/0335246400.html
Authors: Hammer Sara
Published: October 2013

The aim of this is to offer novices and experienced learning/teaching practitioners an accessible and user‐friendly resource that will help them enhance their students' learning through the use of a range of learning technologies. A clear rationale for the practical ideas presented here is provided in the authors' overview of related educational theory, recent trends, and debates. If this book seems likely to be relevant to you, I recommend you buy a copy.

Sara Hammer
β‐2 Adrenergic receptor gene methylation is associated with decreased asthma severity in inner‐city Schoolchildren
Authors: Gaffin J. M. , Raby B. A. , Petty C. R. , Hoffman E. B. , Baccarelli A. A. , Gold D. R. , Phipatanakul W.
Published: October 2013

Background

Genetic variation in the β‐2 adrenergic receptor gene (ADRB2) has been implicated in asthma severity and control with conflicting results. Epigenetic variation in the ADRB2 may play an important role in asthma phenotype.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate whether DNA methylation of ADRB2 is associated with asthma phenotypes in inner‐city school‐aged children.

Methods

Multiple CpG sites in the promoter region of ADRB2 gene were analysed in 177 children enrolled in the School Inner‐City Asthma Study. Blood‐ or saliva‐derived DNA was measured by bisulphite‐polymerase chain reaction pyrosequencing assay. Average percentage DNA methylation across the sites was evaluated for association with asthma severity (report of dyspnoea, night‐time symptoms, rescue medication use, and baseline spirometry) and morbidity (school absences and unscheduled healthcare visits). Three clades composed of highly correlated methylation sites within the methylated segment of ADRB2 were further analysed.

Results

Methylation of individual sites generally ranged from 0% to 6% with average percentage methylation across sites of 2.4%. Univariate analyses strongly favoured the association of higher percentage methylation with lower asthma severity measured by report of dyspnoea. Furthermore, there was a non‐significant trend towards less rescue medication use, night‐time symptoms, school absences, activity limitation due to asthma, and improved lung function measurements with increased methylation. Multivariate analysis demonstrated methylation of ADRB2 gene significantly associated with less dyspnoea (odds ratio (OR) 0.2, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.1–0.6, P = 0.002). Each of the three clades of methylation sites showed a strong, but not statistically significant, effect on decreased dyspnoea.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

DNA methylation in the ADRB2 gene is associated with decreased asthma symptom severity, suggesting a role for methylation in asthma phenotypes.
X-linked dominant protoporphyria: a new porphyria
Authors: Seager M. J. , Whatley S. D. , Anstey A. V. , Millard T. P.
Published: October 2013

X-linked dominant protoporphyria (XLDPP) was first reported in the genetics literature in 2008. It has a phenotype very similar to erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), but is distinguished from EPP by higher concentrations of erythrocyte protoporphyrin (of which a high proportion is zinc-chelated), its apparently higher incidence of liver disease, and an X-linked dominant pattern of inheritance. Dermatologists should understand how XLDPP differs from EPP, in order to advise newly diagnosed patients correctly about the genetic implications and the long-term management strategy. We present a case series of XLDPP to introduce this condition to the dermatology literature.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Cryopreserved Bone‐Derived Osteoblasts for the Repair of Segmental Mandibular Defects in Canines
Authors: Wang Shaoyi , Zhao Jun , Zhang Wenjie , Ye Dongxia , Zhang Xiaochen , Zou Duohong , Zhang Xiuli , Sun Xiaojuan , Sun Shuyang , Zhang Weijie , Yang Chi , Jiang Xinquan , Zhang Zhiyuan
Published: October 2013

Background

The repair of segmental mandibular defects remains challenging in the clinic. Previous studies have shown that cryopreserved bone‐derived osteoblasts (CBOs) have good proliferation and osteogenicity. However, whether these cells can be used in the repair of segmental mandibular defects is largely unknown.

Purpose

In this study, we applied CBOs combined with beta‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) to repair a segmental mandibular defect in canines and thus established the feasibility of using this type of tissue‐bank cell for the repair of large bone defects in the future.

Material and Methods

Sixteen segmental mandibular defects in 16 animals were made on the right side. Sequential radiographs, computer tomography, polychrome fluorescent labeling, immunohistochemical staining, and histological analysis were used to evaluate the effects of tissue‐engineered bone for segmental mandibular defects.

Results

Our results demonstrated that CBOs combined with β‐TCP promoted bone mineralization and deposition at the early stage, and bony union was achieved in the CBO and fresh bone‐derived osteoblast (FBO) groups. However, nonunion and minimal callus were present in the β‐TCP group. Furthermore, there was a large amount of newly formed bone in the CBO and FBO groups and in the autogenous bone group. Additionally, osteocalcin immunohistochemistry showed intensive osteocalcin immunoreactivity in the bone matrix of the CBO and FBO groups.

Conclusions

These data indicate that CBOs implanted in a scaffold can promote new bone formation, and this tissue‐engineered bone can repair critically sized segmental mandibular defects in canines. The use of CBOs combined with β‐TCP may be an effective approach for the reconstruction of segmental mandibular defects in the clinic.
Evaluation of the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease assessment test in Japanese outpatients
Authors: Horita Nobuyuki , Yomota Makiko , Sasaki Masahiro , Morita Satoshi , Shinkai Masaharu , Ishigatsubo Yoshiaki , Kaneko Takeshi
Published: October 2013

Objective

The Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Assessment Test (CAT) is a quality‐of‐life (QOL) questionnaire that proved to correlate with St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire. Correlations between CAT scores and other COPD parameters have not been thoroughly evaluated in Japanese outpatients.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study of 85 outpatients with COPD at a Japanese community‐based hospital.

Patients

We observed 70 men and 15 women, whose average age was 72.0 ± 9.0 years. Mean forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) (% predicted) was 45.8 ± 14.7%. Mean CAT score was 10.1 ± 7.9 (range: 0–31). We calculated Spearman's rank correlation coefficient for CAT score and the following variables: r = 0.81 for ‘the Body Mass Index, Airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea and Exercise Capacity Index’; r = −0.05 for body mass index; r = −0.56 for FEV1 (% predicted); r = 0.88 for Modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale; r = −0.71 for 6‐min walk distance; r = 0.68 for ‘the Age, Dyspnoea,and Airflow Obstruction Index’; and r = −0.40 for oxygen saturation in artery. Each COPD parameter, except for body mass index, had a significant (P < 0.001) correlation with the CAT score.

Conclusions

The CAT score, which is obtainable by a simple questionnaire originally designed for QOL assessment, had strong correlations with airflow obstruction, dyspnea, exercise tolerance, prognostic index and oxygenation in Japanese outpatients.
Allogeneic stem cell transplantation in patients with aggressive primary cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma – a case series of the ADF working group „cutaneous lymphomas”
Authors: Moritz Rose K. C. , Ditschkowski Markus , Klemke Claus‐Detlev , Terras Sarah , Schlaak Max , Knorr Martin , Theurich Sebastian , Hegenbart Ute , Kremens Bernhard , Beelen Dietrich W. , Stücker Markus , Kreuter Alexander ,   working group „cutaneous lymphomas“ of the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Dermatologische Forschung (ADF), Germany
Published: October 2013

Background

Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) is a treatment option for primary cutaneous T‐cell lymphomas that may induce long‐lasting complete remissions. Little information is available on safety and efficacy.

Patients and methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data from patients with primary cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma treated in the Departments of Dermatology of the Universities of Bochum, Mannheim and Cologne who received subsequent alloSCT between 2005 and 2012.

Results

Nine patients with aggressive primary cutaneous T‐cell‐lymphoma received alloSCT. With a follow‐up of 14 to 36 months after transplantation, 4 patients are alive and in complete remission. Two patients had recurrent disease post‐transplantation, which was successfully treated with donor lymphocyte infusions. Non‐relapse mortality was observed in three patients in advanced disease stages within six months after alloSCT. One patient showed only partial remission and died of disease after 32 months and one patient died 26 months after alloSCT with cause of death unknown.

Conclusions

This report documents the possible benefit of a graft‐versus‐lymphoma effect in primary cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma, as has been observed for other T‐cell malignancies and emphasizes that alloSCT warrants further studies in this setting.
Evaluation of Subclinical Left Ventricular Dysfunction in Diabetic Patients: Longitudinal Strain Velocities and Left Ventricular Dyssynchrony by Two‐Dimensional Speckle Tracking Echocardiography Study
Authors: Zoroufian Arezoo , Razmi Tannaz , Taghavi‐Shavazi Mohsen , Lotfi‐Tokaldany Masoumeh , Jalali Arash
Published: October 2013

Background

We evaluated left ventricular (LV) subclinical systolic dysfunction in diabetes mellitus patients using two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) for early detection of changes in LV longitudinal strain (ST) or synchronized contraction.

Methods

To determine ST and LV dyssynchrony, 37 normal coronary and normotensive diabetes mellitus patients with LV ejection fraction >50% were enrolled and compared to 39 nondiabetic normal coronary and LV function subjects. The cases underwent standard conventional transthoracic echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) and STE. End‐systolic ST and time‐to‐peak systolic strain (Ts) were measured in 18 LV segments.

Results

Conventional parameters were similar between diabetic and nondiabetic subjects. In diabetic patients, significant reduction in global and segmental ST adjusted for age and body mass index, independently correlated with early diastolic velocity at the septal mitral valve annulus by TDI (P = 0.001), ratio of transmitral early and late diastolic velocities (P < 0.001), relative wall thickness (P = 0.014), glycosylated hemoglobin (P < 0.001), and fasting blood sugar (P < 0.001). These correlations were not found in the nondiabetic patients. After adjustment, presence of diabetes mellitus remained an independent correlate of reduced LV global longitudinal ST (R = 0.688, P = 0.003). Delay of Ts between the anteroseptal and posterior walls and all the LV segments was markedly higher in the diabetic group regardless of diastolic dysfunction.

Conclusion

In diabetic patients with normal coronary and ejection fraction, segmental and global end‐systolic longitudinal ST decreased and differences between Ts among LV segments increased irrespective of diastolic dysfunction at early stage. These results suggest that there might be early detectable changes in systolic function in the natural course of diabetes mellitus by STE study.
Three‐Dimensional Echocardiography Images Showing Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return in an Adult with Scimitar Syndrome
Authors: Palios John , Pernetz Maria‐Alexandra , Clements Stephen , Lerakis Stamatios
Published: October 2013

Mini‐Abstract

Three‐dimensional echocardiography images showing anomalous pulmonary venous return in an adult with scimitar syndrome.
Mycophenolic acid attenuates the tumour necrosis factor‐α‐mediated proinflammatory response in endothelial cells by blocking the MAPK/NF‐κB and ROS pathways
Authors: Olejarz Wioletta , Bryk Dorota , Zapolska‐Downar Danuta , Małecki Maciej , Stachurska Anna , Sitkiewicz Dariusz
Published: October 2013

Background

Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) has beneficial effects in cardiac transplant patients beyond the suppression of tissue rejection. Moreover, mycophenolic acid (MPA), its active metabolite, has been associated with positive effects on atherosclerosis in animal models. The attachment of leukocytes to the vascular endothelium and the subsequent migration of these cells into the vessel wall are early events in inflammation and atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of MPA on tumour necrosis‐α (TNF‐α)‐induced, endothelial cell proinflammatory responses and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods and Results

Human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) were treated with different concentrations (primarily 50 μM) of MPA before treatment with TNF‐α. The surface protein and mRNA expressions of intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1) were determined by flow cytometry and real‐time RT–PCR, respectively. Adhesion of leukocytes to TNF‐α‐treated HAECs was evaluated by an adhesion assay. Activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) was evaluated by measuring the levels of their phosphorylation using flow cytometry. NF‐κB p65 translocation was detected by Western blotting. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was determined by reduction in fluorescent 2′,7′‐dichlorofluorescein diacetate (H2 DCFH‐DA). MPA significantly inhibits TNF‐α‐induced ICAM‐1, VCAM‐1 surface protein and mRNA expression as well as adhesion of mononuclear leukocytes to HAEC. ICAM‐1 and VCAM‐1 expressions were also reduced by antioxidants such as pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate, diphenylene iodonium and apocynin. MPA inhibited TNF‐α‐stimulated ROS generation similarly to apocynin. TNF‐α increased ICAM‐1 and VCAM‐1 expression via c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK1/2) and p38 MAPK. MPA and apocynin inhibited TNF‐α‐induced phosphorylation of all three MAP kinases. Furthermore, TNF‐α‐induced NF‐κB activation was attenuated by SP600125 (JNK inhibitor), PD98059 (ERK1/2 inhibitor, SB203580 (p38 MAPK inhibitor) and MPA. MPA also inhibited TNF‐α‐induced nuclear translocation of NF‐κB p65.

Conclusion

These results suggest that, in addition to the prevention of rejection, MPA may be a promising approach for the treatment of inflammatory vascular disease.
Body size and elevation: do Bergmann's and Rensch's rule apply in the polytypic bushcricket Poecilimon veluchianus?
Authors: EWELEIT LUCIENNE , REINHOLD KLAUS
Published: October 2013

One of the most fundamental differences between animals are size differences that are often prominent when comparing species, as well as the sexes within species. One important aim of evolutionary and ecological studies is therefore to understand the pattern of size variation.

Bergmann's rule and Rensch's rule are two ideas that describe such general patterns. But whether or not these rules apply only in homoeothermic animals, or also in insects, is unclear because previous studies have shown opposing results.

For two subspecies of Poecilimon veluchianus Ramme (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae), we demonstrate a pattern that is opposite to what is predicted by Bergmann's rule. Rensch's rule also does not seem to apply, as sexual size dimorphism (SSD) does not change even though body size decreases with elevation in these two taxa. Our data adds to an emerging pattern that the two rules are not universally applicable in insects.
Time of the season: the effect of host photoperiodism on diapause induction in an insect herbivore, Leptinotarsa decemlineata
Authors: IZZO VICTOR M. , ARMSTRONG JORDAN , HAWTHORNE DAVID , CHEN YOLANDA
Published: October 2013

Diapause, seasonal physiological dormancy, is the primary life history strategy used by insect species inhabiting temperate climates for seasonal synchronisation. Biotic signals for diapause induction originating from host plants may provide dependable cues for insects expanding from subtropical regions.

We investigated the effect of plant‐mediated photoperiod cues on diapause initiation within the Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say. The effect of photoperiod changes on potato leaf composition and its subsequent correlation with diapause initiation was tested.

Analyses revealed a significant effect of short‐day (LD 8 : 16 h and LD 10 : 14 h) photoperiod growth regimens on both nitrogen content in potato leaves and diapause initiation within L. decemlineata.

Potato plants grown under short day conditions displayed significantly higher levels of leaf nitrogen compared with long‐day treated plants. Over 65% of beetles feeding upon short‐day treated plants initiated diapause compared with < 20% of beetles placed upon long‐day treated plants.

The observation of seasonality‐induced diapause signals by host plants signifies an important addition to the current array of plant–insect interactions. The present results suggest that seasonal synchrony may be the result of a more integrated system whereby host plant photoperiodism acts as an intermediate or supplementary physiological cue for diapause initiation.
Patterns of parasite infection in bumble bees (Bombusspp.) ofNorthernVirginia
Authors: MALFI ROSEMARY L. , ROULSTON T'AI H.
Published: October 2013

In recent decades, severalNorthAmerican bumble bee (Bombusspp.) species have undergone precipitous declines. It is suspected that a parasite or pathogen may be responsible, yet few studies have examined the extent of parasitism and the ecology of host–parasite relationships inU.S. bumble bee populations.

A season‐long survey of bumble bees in seven grassland meadows of the northernShenandoahValley andPiedmont regions inVirginia was conducted in 2011 to ascertain the local prevalence and predictors of parasitism by the internal parasitesNosemaandCrithidia, and by parasitoid conopid flies.

In total, 835 bumble bees representing six species were examined. Using visual detection methods, we determined that 25% of bees were infected with parasitoid larvae, 17.4% withCrithidia, and 7.3% withNosema.

Nosemainfections were more prevalent and intense in locally rare than locally common species, with the two rarest bumble bees [B. fervidus(Fabricius) andB. auricomus(Robertson)], newly suspected to be in decline, having the highest frequencies of infection (11–17.8%).

Crithidiawas generally more prevalent in common bumble bee species (11–35%). With fewer than 5% of individuals infected, the two rarest species had the lowest frequencies ofCrithidia. Conopid fly larvae were more prevalent in common species.

Body size significantly influenced the probability of parasitism by conopids andCrithidia. Smaller bees were more likely to be parasitised byCrithidia. Larger bees were more likely to be parasitised by conopid flies, although the largest bee species (B. auricomus) was not infected by conopids in this study.
Macrophyte loss drives decadal change in benthic invertebrates in peatland drainage ditches
Authors: Whatley Merrin H. , van Loon E. Emiel , van Dam Herman , Vonk J. Arie , van der Geest Harm G. , Admiraal Wim
Published: October 2013

Agricultural peatlands and their associated drainage systems are often highly managed and exposed to anthropogenic pressures, such as eutrophication and stable water tables, maintained via drainage during periods of high rainfall and inlet of, alkaline‐rich, waters during dry periods. These pressures promote peat degradation, resulting in the accumulation of fine‐degraded peat particles that dramatically alter aquatic habitats by smothering surfaces and decreasing water quality. Consequential effects on benthic communities are expected but have not been investigated so far.

We hypothesised that peat degradation can lead to the decline in submerged macrophytes, which are of critical importance to sustaining biodiversity of benthic invertebrate communities. To investigate this, we analysed decadal (1985–2007) changes in benthic species richness in 29 peat ditches in the Netherlands and, to determine patterns of macroinvertebrate habitat occupancy, carried out a complementary field experiment with submerged artificial macrophytes, natural sediments and emergent bank vegetation.

Results from long‐term monitoring indicate that chemical conditions in agricultural peat ditches have improved slightly over the last decades; however, there has been a simultaneous decline in benthic invertebrate species richness and densities corresponding to a decline in the numbers of submerged macrophytes. The apparent dependence of macroinvertebrates on macrophytes was reinforced by our field experiment which revealed that invertebrate density was highest in submerged artificial plants, while invertebrate species richness was highest in natural emergent vegetation. Conversely, degraded peat sediments supported extremely few invertebrates.

Our results clearly illustrate the strong influence of submerged macrophyte loss on macroinvertebrate assemblages in peatland waters. Furthermore, this suggests that improvements in water quality alone will not benefit invertebrates in the absence of suitable vegetative habitats.
Increased ubiquitination and the crosstalk of G protein signaling in cardiac myocytes: involvement of Ric‐8B in Gs suppression by Gq signal
Authors: Jenie Riris I , Nishimura Motoki , Fujino Mika , Nakaya Michio , Mizuno Norikazu , Tago Kenji , Kurose Hitoshi , Itoh Hiroshi
Published: October 2013

Hyperactivation of Gq signaling causes cardiac hypertrophy, and β‐adrenergic receptor‐mediated Gs signaling is attenuated in hypertrophic cardiomyocytes. Here, we found the increase in a global ubiquitination in hypertrophic mouse heart. The activation of Gq signaling resulted in the ubiquitination of Gαs in neonatal rat cardiomyocytes, reduced Gαs expression, and suppressed cAMP response to β‐adrenergic receptor stimulation. Ectopic expression of Gαq induced a similar suppression, which is due to the degradation of Gαs by a ubiquitin–proteasome pathway. Co‐expression of Ric‐8B, a positive regulator of Gαs, effectively canceled the Gαq‐induced ubiquitination of Gαs and recovered the cAMP accumulation. In vitro, Gαq competes for the binding of Gαs to Ric‐8B. These data show a new role of Ric‐8B in the crosstalk of two distinct G protein signaling pathways, which are possibly involved in a part of mechanisms of chronic heart failure.
The rationale for the use of low molecular weight heparin for hemodialysis treatments
Authors: Davenport Andrew
Published: October 2013

Unfractionated heparin (UFH) is the most commonly used anticoagulant for hemodialysis worldwide. However, UFH comprises a series of different molecules with variable biological activity, thus risking under and over anticoagulation. As such, low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) were developed to improve reliability. LMWHs are now established in clinical practice and have been proven to be effective in preventing extracorporeal circuit clotting, but also safer with fewer reported bleeding episodes and less heparin induced thrombocytopenia than UFH. As with UFH, most centers simply adjust the dose of LMWHs by clinical inspection of the extracorporeal circuit for thrombus, and bleeding times post‐fistula needle removal. Despite potentially higher drug costs, LMWHs have become the anticoagulant of choice in Europe for routine outpatient hemodialysis sessions, due to their ease of administration and reliability of clinical effect.
Considerable variation among Iranian dermatologists in the dosing and monitoring of methotrexate for treating psoriasis
Authors: Zargari Omid , Hejazi Somayeh , Shahidi‐Dadras Mohamad , Younespour Shima , Robati Reza , Firooz Alireza , Toosi Parviz , Feldman Steven R.
Published: October 2013

Background

Methotrexate (MTX) is a risky medication requiring careful attention to dosing and monitoring. Dosing and monitoring practices are not well characterized.

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess variation in the dosing and monitoring of methotrexate among Iranian dermatologists.

Methods

A questionnaire was administered to forty experts in psoriasis concerning the use of MTX.

Results

Among the 39 responding dermatologists (15 women, 24 men), 54% saw fewer than 10 psoriatic patients per week, 23% 10–20 patients, and 23% more than 20 patients. About half of the dermatologists treat their patients with an initial MTX dose of <7.5 mg/week (range 5–17.5 mg/week), an average dose of <10 mg/week (range 5–25 mg/week), and a maximum dose of <20 mg/week (range 7.5ٲ–50 mg/week) with 71.8% prescribing the medication orally and 28.2% intramuscularly. Subcutaneous injection was preferred by none of the dermatologists as a usual route of administration. Nearly 5% of the dermatologists believe that liver biopsy should be performed prior to treatment with MTX in all patients, and another 5% consider this procedure prior to treatment only in patients with risk factors. About 44 and 33% of the dermatologists do the liver biopsy after 1.0–1.5 g and 3.54 g total cumulative doses, respectively.

Conclusion

After more than a half century, there are still noticeable controversies on the manner of using MTX in treating psoriasis among Iranian dermatologists. A national guideline may help standardize treatment practices.
Open surgical partial nephrectomy for upper tract urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Macari David , Faerber Gary J , Hafez Khaled S , Hollenbeck Brent K , Montie James E , Wood David P , Wolf J Stuart
Published: October 2013

We aimed to determine the ability of partial nephrectomy to prevent end‐stage renal disease and tumor recurrence or progression in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma. Retrospectively, eight patients undergoing partial nephrectomy for upper tract urothelial carcinoma were identified and their medical records reviewed. All patients had imperative indications for nephron sparing, and diagnosis of upper tract urothelial carcinoma not adequately amenable to endoscopic management. Although three patients suffered acute tubular necrosis, only one required postoperative hemodialysis. During the follow‐up period 25% (2/8) developed end‐stage renal disease, including the one patient who had received postoperative hemodialysis. Recurrences occurred in five of seven patients with adequate oncological surveillance. Recurrences were successfully treated endoscopically in 80% (4/5) patients, and one patient had metastases. Of the eight patients, four have died. Death occurred 4 months, 1 year, 1.2 years and 3.5 years after partial nephrectomy. Of these patients, one succumbed to metastatic disease; the exact cause of death is unknown in the other three, but there was no documentation of metastatic cancer. The mean duration of follow up in the remaining four patients, all without evidence of metastatic urothelial cancer, is 71 months (range 22–108 months). In summary, partial nephrectomy for upper tract urothelial carcinoma in patients with imperative indications averts end‐stage renal disease in most patients, and appears to be associated with acceptable disease‐specific survival. Partial nephrectomy is a sparingly used option in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma refractory to endoscopic management who have imperative indications for nephron sparing.
Clinical characteristics and prostate‐specific antigen kinetics of prostate cancer detected in repeat annual population screening in Japan
Authors: Kitagawa Yasuhide , Sawada Kiyoshi , Mizokami Atsushi , Nakashima Kazuyoshi , Koshida Kiyoshi , Nakashima Takao , Miyazaki Kimiomi , Takeda Yasuo , Namiki Mikio
Published: October 2013

Objectives

To clarify the present status regarding repeat examination in the annual population screening system in Japan, and to analyze the clinical characteristics and prostate‐specific antigen kinetics of prostate cancer detected in this setting.

Methods

We summarized the annual individual data of prostate‐specific antigen‐based population screening in Kanazawa, Japan, and analyzed the prostate cancer detection rates at first and repeat screening. The clinical characteristics were compared between patients detected at first and repeat screening. The patients were classified according to favorable or unfavorable clinical characteristics of cancer, and prostate‐specific antigen kinetics were compared between the two groups.

Results

From 2000 to 2011, 19 620 men participated in this screening program, and a total of 59 019 screenings were carried out. The total annual numbers of examinees increased, and the annual rates of first examinees gradually decreased. The annual detection rates of cancer at total screening decreased in the second year. The annual detection rate at first screening was not different from that in the first year. The rate of patients with favorable cancer features was significantly higher among patients detected at repeat screening than at first screening. The rates of patients with high prostate‐specific antigen velocity and low prostate‐specific antigen doubling time were significantly higher in unfavorable than favorable cancer patients in repeat screening.

Conclusions

Repeat population screening could contribute to early detection of prostate cancer, and it seems that prostate‐specific antigen kinetics might predict the cancer characteristics in repeat screening.
Pulpal status of human primary molars with coexisting caries and physiological root resorption
Authors: Rajan Sadna , Day Peter F. , Christmas Clare , Munyombwe Theresa , Duggal Monty , Rodd Helen D.
Published: October 2013

Aim

This study sought to investigate the effect of caries, in association with physiological root resorption, on the pulpal status of human primary molars.

Design

Fifty‐three mandibular primary molars were obtained from children requiring extractions under general anaesthesia. Following extraction, teeth were split longitudinally and placed in Zamboni's fixative. Teeth were categorised according to i) the depth of caries (less than or greater than halfway through dentine thickness) and ii) the degree of physiological root resorption (<33%, 34–66% or >67% of the root length). Ten‐micrometre pulp sections were subject to indirect immunofluorescence using a combination of PGP 9.5 (a general neuronal marker), CD45 (a general neuronal marker), and Ulex europaeus agglutinin I (a marker of vascular endothelium). Image analysis was used to determine the percentage area of staining (PAS) for innervation and immune cells.

Results

Marked differences were seen between different samples, but there were no significant differences in mean PAS for PGP 9.5 or CD45 according to the degree of caries or extent of physiological root resorption (two‐way anova, P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Findings suggest that even if primary molars are undergoing exfoliation, they show comparable caries‐induced changes to teeth without physiological root resorption, thus retaining potential for healing and repair.
Color stability of carious incipient lesions located in enamel and treated with resin infiltration or remineralization
Authors: Cohen‐Carneiro Flávia , Pascareli Aline Maquiné , Christino Marcella Rodrigues Carneiro , Vale Hugo Felipe do , Pontes Danielson Guedes
Published: October 2013

Objective

In this in vitro study, the color change of artificial caries lesions in enamel was evaluated after resin infiltration (Icon®, DMG, Hamburg, Germany) or remineralization.

Methods

Bovine enamel specimens (n = 72) were randomly divided into four groups: G1 – exposure to demineralizing solution (32 h) and resin infiltration; G2 – immersion in demineralizing solution and remineralization cycles (8 days); G3 – demineralizing solution (negative control); G4 – healthy/non‐treated enamel (positive control). The groups were subdivided and immersed in: A (saliva), B (coffee), and C (wine). The baseline color was evaluated by spectrophotometer and repeated after 4 and 8 weeks, and after polishing, at the end of 8 weeks. The variation in color (∆E) and lightness (∆L) was analyzed by anova (two‐way) and Tukey tests, and Friedman and Kruskal–Wallis tests, respectively.

Results

All specimens underwent color and lightness change, irrespective of immersion medium. In coffee, G2 presented the lowest mean ∆E (P < 0.05), compared with the other groups. In saliva, G3 presented the highest mean ∆E, and G2 and G4 lower ∆E means.

Conclusion

Lesions infiltrated with Icon® underwent greater color change when compared with remineralized lesions, which may represent an esthetic disadvantage for the first‐mentioned treatment.
A two‐stage hub location method for air transportation in Brazil
Authors: Figueiredo Rafael M.A. , O'Kelly Morton E. , Pizzolato Nelio D.
Published: October 2013

During the past decade, the Brazilian air passenger market has been growing at impressive rates suggesting the need for rationalization and the consistent use of the hub‐and‐spoke configuration. This research considers 135 airports, mostly extremely small, and the aim is to identify regional hubs that would accumulate traffic and feed a predefined restricted number of major hubs. The proposed approach is divided into two phases: the first phase considers all 135 existing commercial airports and using the p‐median problem identifies p airports that would play the role of regional hubs, and the second phase considers a problem with these p airports and solves the q‐hub location problem. Both phases are sequentially solved by the software AIMMS 3.9. The research has broad implications consistent with the publicized efforts to improve management practices, support a larger number of commercial airports, and face the expected peak demand in the upcoming international events. Given the growth in the air passenger market in Brazil, both phases may be seen as two independent objectives.
Atomised Terror and Democratic Citizenship
Authors: YI JOSEPH
Published: October 2013

This essay connects the 2103 Boston Bombings to the dynamics of a highly individualist, modern society. The perpetrators (Tsarnaev brothers) represent an atomized stratum of Americans, disconnected from communal institutions and organizations; socially insignificant men, ready to commit publicized, albeit isolated, acts of violence. With the exception of the World Trade Center, major terrorist attacks in the past two decades have been perpetrated by asocial, isolated individuals. An expansive security and welfare state is an inadequate response to atomized terror and is potentially problematic for our liberties. An approach more consistent with security and freedom is to nurture the rights and responsibilities of democratic citizenship.
Preview of the IPPR Commission on the Future of Higher Education
Authors: BLACKSTONE TESSA
Published: October 2013

Review of a Critical Path Securing the Future of Higher Education in England: the final report of the IPPR Commission on the future of Higher Education. The focus of the review is first on the funding of Higher Education and the options set out by the IPPR which include lower tuition fees, a graduate tax, means tested family contributions and changes to the loan repayment scheme; and second on better ways of widening participation and expanding opportunities for under‐represented groups of students.