bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endothelium‐mediated control of vascular tone: COX‐1 and COX‐2 products
Authors: Félétou Michel , Huang Yu , Vanhoutte Paul M
Published: February 2011

Endothelium‐dependent contractions contribute to endothelial dysfunction in various animal models of aging, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. In the spontaneously hypertensive rat, the archetypal model for endothelium‐dependent contractions, the production of the endothelium‐derived contractile factors (EDCF) involves an increase in endothelial intracellular calcium concentration, the production of reactive oxygen species, the predominant activation of cyclooxygenase‐1 (COX‐1) and to a lesser extent that of COX‐2, the diffusion of EDCF towards the smooth muscle cells and the subsequent stimulation of their thromboxane A2‐endoperoxide TP receptors. Endothelium‐dependent contractions are also observed in various models of hypertension, aging and diabetes. They generally also involve the generation of COX‐1‐ and/or COX‐2‐derived products and the activation of smooth muscle TP receptors. Depending on the model, thromboxane A2, PGH2, PGF2α, PGE2 and paradoxically PGI2 can all act as EDCFs. In human, the production of COX‐derived EDCF is a characteristic of the aging and diseased blood vessels, with essential hypertension causing an earlier onset and an acceleration of this endothelial dysfunction. As it has been observed in animal models, COX‐1, COX‐2 or both isoforms can contribute to these endothelial dysfunctions. Since in most cases, the activation of TP receptors is the common downstream effector, selective antagonists of this receptor should curtail endothelial dysfunction and be of therapeutic interest in the treatment of cardiovascular disorders.

LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed issue on Vascular Endothelium in Health and Disease. To view the other articles in this issue visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2011.164.issue‐3
Cardiac ion channel modulation by the hypoglycaemic agent rosiglitazone
Authors: Hancox JC
Published: February 2011

The hypoglycaemic thiazolidinedione rosiglitazone is used clinically in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, in 2010, information relating to rosiglitazone‐associated increased cardiovascular risk led the European Medicines Agency to recommend suspension of marketing authorizations for rosiglitazone‐containing anti‐diabetes drugs, while the US Food and Drug Administration recommended significant restriction on the agent's use. Two timely studies in this issue of the British Journal of Phrarmacology provide new information regarding modification of cardiac cellular electrophysiology by rosiglitazone. Szentandrássy et al. demonstrate canine ventricular action potential modification and concentration‐dependent suppression of L‐type Ca current and of transient outward and rapid delayed rectifier K currents. Jeong et al. demonstrate concentration‐dependent inhibition of recombinant Kv4.3 channels, providing mechanistic insight into the likely molecular basis of transient outward K current inhibition by the compound. Further studies using diabetic models would be of value to determine whether, in a diabetic setting, rosiglitazone modification of these channels could affect the risk of arrhythmia at clinically relevant drug concentrations.

LINKED ARTICLES This article is a commentary on Szentandrássy et al., pp. 499–509 of this issue and Jeong et al., pp. 510–520 of this issue. To view these papers visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2011.01215.x and http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2011.01210.x
Use of School Nurse Services Among Poor Ethnic Minority Students in the Urban Pacific Northwest
Authors: Fleming Robin
Published: February 2011

ABSTRACT
Objective: To determine whether patterns in student use of school nurse services existed according to poverty, race, and ethnicity.

Design and Sample: Cross‐sectional descriptive study of 51,767 visits to school nurses made by 12,797 middle and high school students was conducted. Data were collected and analyzed by race, ethnicity, and poverty.

Measures: Individual‐level quantitative data on student visits to school nurses were collected via the School Nurse Entry Database. Numbers and types of student visits were measured, along with the demographic characteristics of student visitors.

Results: Poverty was the largest driver of visits to school nurses among all racial and ethnic groups. Poverty was a larger influence on White students' use of services, suggesting that factors related to race, ethnicity, or culture may have larger effects on promoting visits to school nurses by students of color. Subethnic Asian and Hispanic groups showed visit patterns that deviated from aggregated visit rates.

Conclusions: Knowledge of visit patterns among poor, ethnic, and subethnic populations is important—and particularly urgent with the advent of national health reform—in informing and improving public health and school nursing policy and practice.
Psychosocial Impact of a Positive HSV‐2 Diagnosis on Adults with Unrecognized HSV‐2 Infection
Authors: Provenzale Allison , Evans Kara , Russell Julie , Hoory Tammy , Mark Hayley
Published: February 2011

ABSTRACT
Objective: To evaluate the current research on the psychosocial impact of a positive herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV‐2) diagnosis on asymptomatic adults.

Design and Sample: A structured review of PubMed, CINAHL, and MEDLINE resulted in 8 articles published between 2000 and 2008.

Measures: Articles were included if they investigated psychosocial reactions to HSV serological testing, including asymptomatic individuals, and used measurement instruments with adequate psychometric properties.

Results: The studies included participants of various backgrounds, including individuals with a new HSV‐2 diagnosis concurrently receiving human immunodeficiency virus treatment, students within a university setting, and an HMO population. Current research indicates that a diagnosis of HSV‐2 does not result in persistent psychosocial morbidity. However, studies that assessed for more nuanced reactions noted an impact on quality of life related to herpes.

Conclusions: Further research is needed to confirm these findings among varied populations, to explore quality of life following HSV screening, and to identify the characteristics that may make particular individuals more susceptible to adverse psychological consequences.
A New Way to Reduce Flow Disturbance in Endovascular Stents: A Numerical Study
Authors: Chen Zengsheng , Fan Yubo , Deng Xiaoyan , Xu Zaipin
Published: February 2011

Traditional commercial stents are made of wires with square or semi‐circular cross‐sections that lead to flow disturbance, which plays an important role in the initiation and progression of restenosis. A new stent with streamlined cross‐sectional wires was proposed and researched numerically for its hemodynamic performance. Simplified models of stents with square, semi‐circular, or streamlined cross‐sectional wires were constructed numerically. Blood flows in the three models were simulated using computational fluid dynamics methods, and compared in terms of flow pattern, wall shear stress (WSS), and oscillating shear index (OSI). The results showed that when compared with the two traditional stents, the new stent with streamlined cross‐sectional wires induced almost no flow disturbance, significantly enhanced WSS, and reduced the value of OSI within the stent. The present preliminary study indicates that the optimization of the cross‐sectional shape of stent wires ought to be considered in the structural design for endovascular stents.
A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of adjunctive carisbamate treatment in patients with partial‐onset seizures
Authors: Halford Jonathan J. , Ben‐Menachem Elinor , Kwan Patrick , Ness Seth , Schmitt Jennifer , Eerdekens Mariëlle , Novak Gerald
Published: February 2011

Purpose:  To assess the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of adjunctive carisbamate treatment at 800 mg/day and 1,200 mg/day in patients with partial‐onset seizures (POS).

Methods:  Patients ≥16 years of age with an established diagnosis of POS for ≥1 year and uncontrolled on one to three antiepileptic drugs were enrolled. Eligible patients remained on stable doses of prescribed antiepileptic drugs for an 8‐week pretreatment baseline phase and were then randomized (1:1:1) to receive carisbamate (800 mg/day or 1,200 mg/day), or placebo, for a 14‐week double‐blind phase. Primary efficacy endpoints were percentage reduction in POS frequency and responder rate (patients with ≥50% reduction in POS frequency) during the double‐blind versus baseline phase.

Key Findings:  Five hundred forty‐seven patients were randomized; 540 composed the intent‐to‐treat (ITT) analysis. Four hundred thirty‐four patients (79%) completed the study. The median percent reduction from baseline to treatment phase in POS frequency was: 21% (placebo); 30% (carisbamate 800 mg); 36% (carisbamate 1,200 mg), and 32% (combined carisbamate doses). The combined carisbamate dose group was not significantly different from placebo for the median percent reduction of POS frequency (p = 0.20) or responder rate (p = 0.18). Therefore, the difference from placebo for the individual carisbamate dose groups was also considered nonsignificant, based on a prespecified step‐down analysis. Dizziness was the most common treatment‐emergent adverse event, with a higher incidence (≥5% difference) in the combined carisbamate group (31%) than placebo (9%); the incidence was higher with carisbamate 1,200 mg (32%, n = 58) than with carisbamate 800 mg (30%, n = 53).

Significance:  Adjunctive carisbamate therapy in patients with POS did not demonstrate efficacy across the dose range assessed versus placebo. No new safety findings were observed.
Seizure outcome in infantile spasms—A retrospective study
Authors: Mohamed Basheer Peer , Scott Rod C. , Desai Nivedita , Gutta Pranathi , Patil Shekhar
Published: February 2011

Purpose:  Prior to the United Kingdom Infantile Spasms Study (UKISS), our practice was to initiate vigabatrin for infantile spasms. However, since then we tend to use steroids as first‐line agent for infantile spasms. Herein we compare seizure‐free outcomes in children with infantile spasms on steroid therapy or vigabatrin therapy.

Methods:  This was a retrospective case study over 8 years of children with infantile spasms who were treated at our center. A positive response to therapy was defined as a two‐week spasm‐free interval.

Key Findings:  Of the 98 children presenting to us, 75 were included for this study. The ratio of cryptogenic to symptomatic spasms was 24:51. The response rate for steroid therapy was 61.1% and 42.5% for vigabatrin. Cessation of spasms was achieved faster in the group receiving steroids. Both groups had similar relapse rates. Steroids had significantly better response in the cryptogenic group, whereas in the symptomatic group both the medications were equally effective. Cryptogenic spasms have a better neurodevelopmental outcome. Early introduction of therapy for spasms did not predict a good neurodevelopmental outcome. Seventy‐eight percent of children with spasms had seizures of other types at 12 months follow‐up.

Significance:  At our center, steroids are now the preferred choice for initial therapy of infantile spasms. This is likely to have been a beneficial change, particularly for children with cryptogenic spasms. Spasms in 25% of the patients tend to be refractory, and the majority of patients from the cohort continue to have epilepsy with motor and cognitive disabilities.
The adverse event profile of pregabalin: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zaccara Gaetano , Gangemi Pierfranco , Perucca Piero , Specchio Luigi
Published: February 2011

Purpose:  Despite the widespread use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) across different neurologic and psychiatric disorders, no study has systematically reviewed all available randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of a given AED to fully uncover its tolerability profile.

We aimed at identifying treatment emergent adverse events (AEs) associated with pregabalin through a systematic review and meta‐analysis of all available RCTs. We also assessed the association between serious AEs and pregabalin, and investigated whether pregabalin AEs display a dose–response relationship.

Methods:  We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL to February 2010 for RCTs. Additional studies were identified from reference lists of retrieved papers and from online clinical databases. We selected placebo‐controlled, double‐blind RCTs investigating the therapeutic effects of pregabalin in adults with any condition. Studies had to include at least 20 subjects per arm and have a duration of at least 4 weeks. AEs were assessed for their association with pregabalin after identification/exclusion of synonyms, rare AEs, and nonassessable AEs due to methodologic limitations. We used relative risks (RRs) to assess the association of any [99% confidence intervals (CIs)] or serious AEs (95% CIs) with pregabalin, and risk differences (RDs, 95% CIs) to investigate dose–response relationships of pregabalin AEs.

Key findings:  Thirty‐eight RCTs were included in our study. Of 39 AEs, 20 (51%) were significantly associated with pregabalin (dizziness, vertigo, incoordination, balance disorder, ataxia, diplopia, blurred vision, amblyopia, tremor, somnolence, confusional state, disturbance in attention, thinking abnormal, euphoria, asthenia, fatigue, edema, peripheral edema, dry mouth, constipation). The highest RRs were found for cognition/coordination AEs. There was no significant association between serious AEs and pregabalin. There was a selective dose–response pattern in the onset of pregabalin AEs, with certain AEs appearing at lower doses than others.

Significance:  Individuals starting treatment with pregabalin are at increased risk for several AEs, particularly those affecting cognition/coordination. Pregabalin AEs appear according to a selective dose–response pattern, possibly reflecting the severity of dysfunction of distinct anatomic structures. These findings may aid clinicians in providing better patient management, and support the value of including in meta‐analyses of AED tolerability profiles RCTs performed in different conditions.
A population‐based study of long‐term outcomes of cryptogenic focal epilepsy in childhood: Cryptogenic epilepsy is probably not symptomatic epilepsy
Authors: Wirrell Elaine C. , Grossardt Brandon R. , So Elson L. , Nickels Katherine C.
Published: February 2011

Purpose:  To compare long‐term outcome in a population‐based group of children with cryptogenic versus symptomatic focal epilepsy diagnosed from 1980 to 2004 and to define the course of epilepsy in the cryptogenic group.

Methods:  We identified all children residing in Olmsted County, MN, 1 month through 17 years, with newly diagnosed, nonidiopathic focal epilepsy from 1980 to 2004. Children with idiopathic partial epilepsy syndromes were excluded. Medical records were reviewed to determine etiology, results of imaging and EEG studies, treatments used, and long‐term outcome. Children were defined as having symptomatic epilepsy if they had a known genetic or structural/metabolic etiology, and as cryptogenic if they did not.

Key Findings:  Of 359 children with newly diagnosed epilepsy, 215 (60%) had nonidiopathic focal epilepsy. Of these, 206 (96%) were followed for >12 months. Ninety‐five children (46%) were classified as symptomatic. Median follow‐up from diagnosis was similar in both groups, being 157 months (25%, 75%: 89, 233) in the cryptogenic group versus 134 months (25%, 75%: 78, 220) in the symptomatic group (p = 0.26). Of 111 cryptogenic cases, 66% had normal cognition. Long‐term outcome was significantly better in those with cryptogenic versus symptomatic etiology (intractable epilepsy at last follow‐up, 7% vs. 40%, p < 0.001; seizure freedom at last follow‐up, 81% vs. 55%, p < 0.001). Of those who achieved seizure freedom at final follow‐up, 68% of the cryptogenic group versus only 46% of the symptomatic group were off antiepileptic medications (p = 0.01). One‐third of the cryptogenic group had a remarkably benign disorder, with no seizures seen after initiation of medication, or in those who were untreated, after the second afebrile seizure. A further 5% had seizures within the first year but remained seizure‐free thereafter. With the exception of perinatal complications, which predicted against seizure remission, no other factors were found to significantly predict outcome in the cryptogenic group.

Significance:  More than half of childhood nonidiopathic localization‐related epilepsy is cryptogenic. This group has a significantly better long‐term outcome than those with a symptomatic etiology, and should be distinguished from it.
Task Effects on Focus on Form in Synchronous Computer‐Mediated Communication
Authors: YILMAZ YUCEL
Published: February 2011

Previous research on synchronous computer‐mediated communication (SCMC) has shown that SCMC interaction could draw learners’ attention to form in ways that are similar to face‐to‐face interaction. However, the role of task type in focusing learners’ attention on form has not been widely researched. In a repeated‐measures design, this study investigated if task type had any effect on the number and characteristics of focus‐on‐form instances of 54 English‐as‐a‐foreign‐language learners. Two jigsaw–dictogloss task pairs were designed and matched for content. Following a practice task session, randomly formed dyads performed each of the tasks using MSN Messenger and CoWord software. Language‐related episodes (LREs) were identified and categorized according to their focus, outcome, and type. Results showed that the dictogloss task elicited a higher number of LREs than the jigsaw task. Tasks also displayed some differences with respect to the characteristics of LREs. Whereas the dictogloss was characterized by orthographic, solved correctly, and negative feedback LREs, the jigsaw was characterized by unresolved LREs. The results are discussed in light of the arguments about the effects of limited information‐processing capacity on task performance (Skehan, 1998).
Grouse dynamics and harvesting in Kainuu, northeastern Finland
Authors: Lampila Petri , Ranta Esa , Mönkkönen Mikko , Lindén Harto , Helle Pekka
Published: February 2011

We study the dynamics of the capercaillie, black grouse, hazel grouse and willow grouse in Kainuu game management district in northeastern Finland in the years 1989–2004. It appears that the 6–7 year periodicity that prevailed in this region from 1960s up to 1980s has now vanished in all species. The grouse data are modelled using a linear autoregressive model with lag terms for population dynamics including grouse harvest as annual bag and an index of winter severity (winter‐time area of Baltic Sea ice cover). We use the Akaike information criterion for selecting the best model for each species; first order lag is forced to the models. It turns out that a term is needed for harvesting (with a negative coefficient) in models for all species. For the capercaillie and the hazel grouse second order lag was included, for the black grouse and the willow grouse first order lag suffices. The willow grouse is the only species where the index of winter strength (with a negative coefficient) is needed in the model.
Feathermoss seedbeds facilitate black spruce seedling recruitment in the forest–tundra ecotone (Labrador, Canada)
Authors: Wheeler Julia A. , Hermanutz Luise , Marino Paul M.
Published: February 2011

As climate warms, conifers are expected to expand their ranges into alpine tundra where ecological factors such as seedbed availability, and post‐dispersal seed and seedling predation may control local recruitment. Seedbed composition may influence microhabitat, nutrients, physical structure, and predation level and, therefore, affect the success of conifer recruitment, thereby providing the template for future expansion. In the boreal forest, seedbed–seedling competition dominates such that seedbed removal increases black spruce recruitment. In the harsher climate of the Mealy Mountains boreal forest–tundra ecotone (Labrador, Canada) the Stress gradient hypothesis (SGH) predicts that facilitation may dominate seedbed–seedling interactions. This study investigated potential mechanisms of seedbed facilitation (temperature, water, nutrients, physical protection) in three conifer seedbeds (Pleurozium schreberi, Cladonia spp., bare soil) and examined whether seed predation and/or seedling herbivory varied among seedbeds over three years. Seed emergence was low overall (< 10% on all treatments), but highest on Pleurozium (6.3%), followed by bare ground (4.6%) and Cladonia (0.3%). Facilitation was observed between Pleurozium and black spruce as seedling height increase (31%) and survival (55%) were highest; herbivory, seed predation and overwinter mortality were lowest compared to both Cladonia and bare ground seedbeds. Unlike in the closed canopy boreal forest, seedlings recruited poorly on bare soil as seedling height increase and survival were 20.5% and 26%. Temperature and water availability were similar across seedbeds, while nutrient availability was higher on Pleurozium. The physical structure of Pleurozium likely protects first to third‐year seedlings from temperature extremes and predators. As climate warms and seed availability increases, Pleurozium may facilitate black spruce recruitment and treeline expansion.
WORK ENGAGEMENT: A QUANTITATIVE REVIEW AND TEST OF ITS RELATIONS WITH TASK AND CONTEXTUAL PERFORMANCE
Authors: CHRISTIAN MICHAEL S. , GARZA ADELA S. , SLAUGHTER JEREL E.
Published: February 2011

Many researchers have concerns about work engagement's distinction from other constructs and its theoretical merit. The goals of this study were to identify an agreed‐upon definition of engagement, to investigate its uniqueness, and to clarify its nomological network of constructs. Using a conceptual framework based on Macey and Schneider (2008; Industrial and Organizational Psychology, 1, 3–30), we found that engagement exhibits discriminant validity from, and criterion related validity over, job attitudes. We also found that engagement is related to several key antecedents and consequences. Finally, we used meta‐analytic path modeling to test the role of engagement as a mediator of the relation between distal antecedents and job performance, finding support for our conceptual framework. In sum, our results suggest that work engagement is a useful construct that deserves further attention.
The role of energy in economic growth
Authors: Stern David I.
Published: February 2011

This paper reviews the mainstream, resource economics, and ecological economics models of growth. A possible synthesis of energy‐based and mainstream models is presented. This shows that when energy is scarce it imposes a strong constraint on the growth of the economy; however, when energy is abundant, its effect on economic growth is much reduced. The industrial revolution released the constraints on economic growth by the development of new methods of using coal and the discovery of new fossil fuel resources. Time‐series analysis shows that energy and GDP cointegrate, and energy use Granger causes GDP when capital and other production inputs are included in the vector autoregression model. However, various mechanisms can weaken the links between energy and growth. Energy used per unit of economic output has declined in developed and some developing countries, owing to both technological change and a shift from poorer quality fuels, such as coal, to the use of higher quality fuels, especially electricity. Substitution of other inputs for energy and sectoral shifts in economic activity play smaller roles.
Isocitrate Dehydrogenase 1 Analysis Differentiates Gangliogliomas from Infiltrative Gliomas
Authors: Horbinski Craig , Kofler Julia , Yeaney Gabrielle , Camelo‐Piragua Sandra , Venneti Sriram , Louis David N. , Perry Arie , Murdoch Geoffrey , Nikiforova Marina
Published: February 2011

Recent work has identified novel point mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) in the majority of the World Health Organization grades II and III infiltrative gliomas and secondary grade IV glioblastomas. Gangliogliomas consist of neoplastic ganglion and glial cells and, in contrast to infiltrative gliomas, are generally indolent. Yet distinguishing between a ganglioglioma and an infiltrative glioma with admixed gray matter can be difficult, perhaps accounting for some “gangliogliomas” that ultimately show aggressive behavior. In this multi‐institutional study, 98 cases originally diagnosed as ganglioglioma were analyzed for IDH1 mutations, 86 of which had follow‐up data available. Eight cases (8.2%) were positive for R132H IDH1 mutations; six had silent IDH2 mutations and two had nonsense IDH2 mutations. The presence of mutant IDH1 in gangliogliomas correlated with a greater risk of recurrence (P = 0.0007) and malignant transformation and/or death (P < 0.0001) compared with tumors that were IDH1 wild type. Furthermore, the age of patients with IDH1‐mutant gangliogliomas was higher than those without mutations (25.5 vs. 46.1 years, P = 0.0033). IDH1/2 testing of tumors suspected of being gangliogliomas may therefore be advisable, particularly in the adult population.
Eco‐evolutionary effects on population recovery following catastrophic disturbance
Authors: Weese Dylan J. , Schwartz Amy K. , Bentzen Paul , Hendry Andrew P. , Kinnison Michael T.
Published: February 2011

Fine‐scale genetic diversity and contemporary evolution can theoretically influence ecological dynamics in the wild. Such eco‐evolutionary effects might be particularly relevant to the persistence of populations facing acute or chronic environmental change. However, experimental data on wild populations is currently lacking to support this notion. One way that ongoing evolution might influence the dynamics of threatened populations is through the role that selection plays in mediating the ‘rescue effect’, the ability of migrants to contribute to the recovery of populations facing local disturbance and decline. Here, we combine experiments with natural catastrophic events to show that ongoing evolution is a major determinant of migrant contributions to population recovery in Trinidadian guppies (Poecilia reticulata). These eco‐evolutionary limits on migrant contributions appear to be mediated by the reinforcing effects of natural and sexual selection against migrants, despite the close geographic proximity of migrant sources. These findings show that ongoing adaptive evolution can be a double‐edged sword for population persistence, maintaining local fitness at a cost to demographic risk. Our study further serves as a potent reminder that significant evolutionary and eco‐evolutionary dynamics might be at play even where the phenotypic status quo is largely maintained generation to generation.
δ18O and chemical composition of Libyan Desert Glass, country rocks, and sands: New considerations on target material
Authors: LONGINELLI Antonio , SIGHINOLFI Giampaolo , De MICHELE Vincenzo , SELMO Enricomaria
Published: February 2011

Abstract–

Oxygen isotope and chemical measurements were carried out on 25 samples of Libyan Desert Glass (LDG), 21 samples of sandstone, and 3 of sand from the same area. The δ18O of LDG samples range from 9.0‰ to 11.9‰ (Vienna Standard Mean Ocean Water [VSMOW]); some correlations between isotope data and typological features of the LDG samples are pointed out. The initial δ18O of a bulk parent material may be slightly increased by fusion due to the loss of isotopically light pore water with no isotope exchange with oxygen containing minerals. Accordingly, the δ18O of the bulk parent material of LDG may have been about 9.0 ± 1‰ (VSMOW). The measured bulk sandstone and sand samples have δ18O values ranging from 12.6‰ to 19.5‰ and are consequently ruled out as parent materials, matching the results of previous studies. However, separated quartz fractions have δ18O values compatible with the LDG values suggesting that the modern surface sand inherited quartz from the target material. This hypothesis fits previous findings of lechatelierite and baddeleyite in these materials. As the age of the parent material reported in previous studies is Pan‐African, we measured the δ18O values of bulk rock and quartz from intrusives of Pan‐African age and the results obtained were compatible with the LDG values. The main element abundances (Fe, Mg, Ca, K, Na) in our LDG samples conform to previous estimates; Fe, Mg, and K tend to be higher in heterogeneous samples with dark layers. The hypothesis of a low‐altitude airburst involving silica‐rich surface materials deriving from weathered intrusives of Pan‐African age, partially melted and blown over a huge surface by supersonic winds matches the results obtained.
Polypharmacy and patterns in drug prescribing at a primary healthcare centre in the Riyadh region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Asiri Yousif A , Al-Arifi Mohamed N
Published: February 2011

Objective

To elucidate the various patterns in drug prescribing in a non-Ministry of Health-affiliated primary healthcare centre model (Riyadh Kharj Military Hospital) in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of pharmacy records of the Riyadh Kharj Military Hospital was undertaken. A total of 4781 prescriptions archived over a period of 6 months (January–June 2001) were statistically analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Number, types, therapeutic duration and distribution of drugs were evaluated. Age distribution and documentation adequacy were also reviewed and monitored. Therapeutic classification of drugs was carried out according to the British National Formulary system.

Key findings

Of the total prescriptions, 47.8% were for male patients and 50.1% for females. Prescriptions for the paediatric population accounted for 19.5% whereas 13.7% of drugs were prescribed to the geriatric cohort. A mean of 2.7 ± 1.6 drugs were prescribed per patient. In multidrug prescriptions, 32.3% contained two drugs and 22.1% prescriptions had four drugs or more. Mono-drug prescriptions accounted for 21.6% of prescriptions. Paracetamol (13.9%) was the most commonly prescribed drug followed by multivitamins and cough syrups with 5.0 and 3.7%, respectively. The most common therapeutic classes of drugs prescribed were analgesics, antipyretics, antihistamines, and vitamins and minerals, making up a third of all prescriptions. Dosage form, dose and routes of administration were not present in 21.7, 8.8 and 99.6%, respectively.

Conclusion

Polypharmacy appears to be a problem in primary health care, which requires stricter pharmacovigilance and constant reviewing. We recommend the establishment of an efficient local prescribing policy through an effective practice-based Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee, training in prescribing to be introduced in medical schools and the lending of support to continuous education programmes targeting prescribing skills.
Statins utilisation pattern: a retrospective evaluation in a tertiary care hospital in Thailand
Authors: Chaiyakunapruk Nathorn , Asuphol Olarik , Dhippayom Teerapon , Poowaruttanawiwit Prayuth , Jeanpeerapong Napawan
Published: February 2011

Objectives

To determine statin usage pattern and evaluate whether new generation statins are actually needed by the patients receiving them.

Methods

This retrospective cohort included patients receiving first-time statins at a tertiary care hospital in Thailand. Using electronic medical records from 2005, its indication was determined based on history of coronary heart disease (CHD) and CHD-risk equivalents. The lipid profiles tested within 30 days prior to the first date of statins prescription were analysed. Each patient was assessed as to whether statin was needed based on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) reduction capacity and lipid goals.

Results

A total of 2479 first-time statin users was included. Ninety percent of the users received simvastatin, while 8% and 2% received atorvastatin and pravastatin respectively. More than half (58.0%) used statins for primary prevention, although all usage of atorvastatin was considered not needed. Considering the use of statin for secondary prevention to achieve the LDL-C goal of <130 mg/dl (3.37 mmol/l), more than 80% of atorvastatin users could be switched to simvastatin. Only 8% of simvastatin usage would not be able to achieve this target. When the LDL-C goal was <70 mg/dl (1.81 mmol/l), 40.2% simvastatin users was considered appropriate, while 58.6% needed atorvastatin to be prescribed.

Conclusion

A substantial proportion of patients did not need statins therapy, particularly for primary prevention. In addition, atorvastatin use is mostly not needed except in patients requiring statins for secondary prevention to achieve the LDL-C goal of <70 mg/dl (1.81 mmol/l). The findings should prompt hospital policy makers to develop measures to ensure the proper use of statins in their clinical settings.
An evaluation of using multi-source feedback (MSF) among junior hospital pharmacists
Authors: Patel Jignesh P , Sharma Atisha , West David , Bates Ian P , Davies J Graham , Abdel-Tawab Rauja
Published: February 2011

Objective

The mini Peer Assessment Tool (mini-PAT) for pharmacists was introduced in 2006 as a formative method of assessing junior hospital pharmacists in the workplace and is the first widespread application of multi-source feedback (MSF) specifically within a pharmacy setting. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and measurement characteristics of the assessment method, in order to guide its future application.

Methods

At the time of the study (September 2008) the assessment had been in place for 3 years. All assessment data from the first 3 years were analysed retrospectively.

Key findings

We evaluated 633 mini-PAT assessments. Over the study period, the assessor response rate remained relatively consistent at 77% and compared favourably with applications of MSF within medicine. Members of the pharmacy team (pharmacists and pharmacy technicians) dominated the assessor nomination lists. It was encouraging to see completed assessment forms returned from nominated doctors and nurses with whom the junior pharmacist had been working. Differences were found between how different occupational groups rated the junior pharmacists against the 16 items on the assessment form (Kruskal–Wallis, df = 3, P < 0.001). Pharmacist assessors rated the junior pharmacists lowest against all 16 items on the mini-PAT assessment form, whereas nominated doctors rated them the highest.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that an MSF assessment method can successfully be applied to a wide range of junior hospital pharmacists, and that the majority of junior hospital pharmacists assessed meet expectations.
Unsteady Boundary Layers on a Flat Plate Disturbed by Periodic Wakes: Part II—Measurements of Unsteady Boundary Layers and Discussion
Authors: Funazaki K.
Published: February 2011

As the second part of the study, detailed hot-wire anemometry measurements of wake-affected boundary layers on the flat plate are made. These measurements are organized in order, first, to check the standpoint of the modeling of the wake-induced transition proposed in Part I, and second, to observe wake–boundary layer interaction in detail from a viewpoint of direct and indirect effect of the wake passage upon turbulent spot generation within the boundary layer, as described by Walker (1993). The validity of the presumed state of the wake-affected boundary layer in the distance–time domain, which constitutes the basis of the transition model, is confirmed to great extent. However, it is also found that the criterion for the onset of the wake-induced transition adopted in Part I should be reconsidered. Some successful attempts are therefore made to specify the transition onset.
An Experimental and Computational Investigation of Flow in a Radial Inlet of an Industrial Pipeline Centrifugal Compressor
Authors: Flathers M. B. , Bache G. E. , Rainsberger R.
Published: February 2011

The flow field of a complex three-dimensional radial inlet for an industrial pipeline centrifugal compressor has been experimentally determined on a half-scale model. Based on the experimental results, inlet guide vanes have been designed to correct pressure and swirl angle distribution deficiencies. The unvaned and vaned inlets are analyzed with a commercially available fully three-dimensional viscous Navier–Stokes code. Since experimental results were available prior to the numerical study, the unvaned analysis is considered a postdiction while the vaned analysis is considered a prediction. The computational results of the unvaned inlet have been compared to the previously obtained experimental results. The experimental method utilized for the unvaned inlet is repeated for the vaned inlet and the data have been used to verify the computational results. The paper will discuss experimental, design, and computational procedures, grid generation, boundary conditions, and experimental versus computational methods. Agreement between experimental and computational results is very good, both in prediction and postdiction modes. The results of this investigation indicate that CFD offers a measurable advantage in design, schedule, and cost and can be applied to complex, three-dimensional radial inlets.
Experimental and Numerical Study of Orifice Discharge Coefficients in High-Speed Rotating Disks
Authors: Wittig S. , Kim S. , Jakoby R. , Weißert I.
Published: February 2011

Experimental and numerical results of the flow through orifices in rotating disks are presented, with emphasis on basic physical phenomena. It is shown that rotational effects strongly influence the massflow discharged, a phenomenon that cannot be modeled by a stationary setup. The study includes the determination of discharge coefficients under variation of the length-to-diameter ratio, pressure ratio, and rotational speed. The pressure ratio covers low as well as critical values, the maximum rotational speed is 10,000 rpm, which is equivalent to a tangential velocity of 110 m/s. In order to understand the flow structure, local flow velocities were measured by means of a two-dimensional Laser-Doppler Velocimeter. Phase-resolved measurements have been carried out in front of and behind the orifices. A three-dimensional Finite-Volume Code with body-fitted coordinates in a rotating frame of reference is employed for the numerical analysis and the verification of its possibilities and limitations. The results reveal a very complex flow field, which is dominated by high velocity gradients in close vicinity to the orifices. The comparison of the computational solutions with the experimental data shows good agreement. Based on the measurements in combination with the numerical solution, a detailed insight into the physical properties of the flow is achieved.
Hot Streak Migration in a Turbine Stage: Integrated Design to Improve Aerothermal Performance
Authors: Basol Altug M. , Jenny Philipp , Ibrahim Mohamed , Kalfas Anestis I. , Abhari Reza S.
Published: February 2011

Hot streaks can cause localized hot spots on the blade surfaces in a high pressure turbine, increasing the heat load locally and even leading to material loss in regions such as the rotor blade tip. This study explores numerically the effect of the hot streak’s clocking position at the stator inlet on the rotor blade heat load and on the tip in particular. The inlet boundary conditions are taken from the hot streak experiment conducted in the axial turbine facility “LISA” at ETH Zurich. Using a particle tracking tool, in conjunction with time resolved simulations, a detailed analysis of the migration pattern of the hot streak is performed and the underlying mechanisms are discussed. The effect of clocking the hot streak from midpitch to the stator pressure side and in the opposite direction is examined. By clocking this particular hot streak even 10% of the stator pitch toward the pressure side up to 24 K reduction in the rotor blade tip adiabatic wall temperatures could be achieved under realistic engine conditions. Finally, based on the observations made, the implications for an integrated combustor-turbine design strategy are discussed.
Classic Selective Sweeps Were Rare in Recent Human Evolution
Authors: Hernandez Ryan D. , Kelley Joanna L. , Elyashiv Eyal , Melton S. Cord , Auton Adam , McVean Gilean ,   1000 Genomes Project, Sella Guy , Przeworski Molly
Published: February 2011

Much human genetic variation is likely due to purifying selection against deleterious mutations.
Time-Reversed Lasing and Interferometric Control of Absorption
Authors: Wan Wenjie , Chong Yidong , Ge Li , Noh Heeso , Stone A. Douglas , Cao Hui
Published: February 2011

Tuning the amplitude and phase of incident light can induce an enhancement of the optical absorption process.
Unlocking the Door to Invasion
Authors: Kereszt Attila , Kondorosi Eva
Published: February 2011

A single plant receptor recognizes related bacterial and fungal signals to initiate symbiosis.
Why Bother?
Authors: Huang Alice S.
Published: February 2011

When we mention women in Science and Engineering, it is often about the diminishing numbers, the lower pay, the many difficulties for women, and the personal sacrifices that women necessarily make. Perhaps, by focusing on the negatives, we are unwittingly persuading young women that science and engineering may not be the right careers for them. Why bother to join this profession?
Human Genome Sequencing: Celebrating 10 Years
Authors: Al-Gazali Lihadh
Published: February 2011

The sequencing of the human genome has had a significant impact on pediatric practice in the Arab region.
A Quake May Have Hinted That It Was on the Way
Authors: Kerr Richard A.
Published: February 2011

A new analysis of decade-old, low-quality data from a large Turkish earthquake, reported in this week's issue of
Science
, has revealed tantalizing signs of an earthquake precursor.
Growth Defect Blocks Cancer and Diabetes
Authors: Leslie Mitch
Published: February 2011

A new study shows that people with Laron syndrome, a rare type of dwarfism, who carry a genetic defect that prevents them from responding to growth hormone, are almost exempt from cancer and diabetes.
Emerging Forensics Field May Hit Legal, Ethical Obstacles
Authors: Enserink Martin
Published: February 2011

The Dutch parliament adopted a law in 2003 regulating forensic DNA phenotyping, the use of DNA samples to predict a suspect's ancestry or physical characteristics. But the Netherlands is still the only country to have done so.
Molecular Phylogeny ofCoxsackievirus A16in Shenzhen, China, from 2005 to 2009
Authors: Zong Wenping , He Yaqing , Yu Shouyi , Yang Hong , Xian Huixia , Liao Yuxue , Hu Guifang
Published: February 2011

Phylogenetic analysis of aCoxsackievirus A16(CA16) sequence from Shenzhen, China, and other Chinese and international CA16 sequences revealed a pattern of endemic cocirculation of strains of clusters B2a and B2b within subtype B2 viruses. Amino acid evolution and nucleotide variation in the VP1 region were slight for 5 years.
Clinical Significance of Propionibacterium acnes Recovered from Blood Cultures: Analysis of 524 Episodes
Authors: Park Hyun Jung , Na Shin , Park Seong Yeon , Moon Song Mi , Cho Oh-Hyun , Park Ki-Ho , Chong Yong Pil , Kim Sung-Han , Lee Sang-Oh , Kim Yang Soo , Woo Jun Hee , Kim Mi-Na , Choi Sang-Ho
Published: February 2011

Of 522 patients with
Propionibacterium acnes
bacteremia (PAB), 18 (3.5%) had clinically significant PAB. Of these 18 patients, 10 (55.6%) had hospital-acquired bacteremia and 6 (33.3%) had undergone invasive procedures before development of PAB. One patient with a ventricular septal defect presented with infective endocarditis. After the exclusion of 1 patient whose outcome was not available, the overall mortality rate was 5.9% (1/17).
Structural Features of the Seneca Valley Virus Internal Ribosome Entry Site (IRES) Element: a Picornavirus with a Pestivirus-Like IRES
Authors: Willcocks Margaret M. , Locker Nicolas , Gomwalk Zarmwa , Royall Elizabeth , Bakhshesh Mehran , Belsham Graham J. , Idamakanti Neeraja , Burroughs Kevin D. , Reddy P. Seshidhar , Hallenbeck Paul L. , Roberts Lisa O.
Published: February 2011

The RNA genome of Seneca Valley virus (SVV), a recently identified picornavirus, contains an internal ribosome entry site (IRES) element which has structural and functional similarity to that from classical swine fever virus (CSFV) and hepatitis C virus, members of theFlaviviridae. The SVV IRES has an absolute requirement for the presence of a short region of virus-coding sequence to allow it to function either in cells or in rabbit reticulocyte lysate. The IRES activity does not require the translation initiation factor eIF4A or intact eIF4G. The predicted secondary structure indicates that the SVV IRES is more closely related to the CSFV IRES, including the presence of a bipartite IIId domain. Mutagenesis of the SVV IRES, coupled to functional assays, support the core elements of the IRES structure model, but surprisingly, deletion of the conserved IIId2domain had no effect on IRES activity, including 40S and eIF3 binding. This is the first example of a picornavirus IRES that is most closely related to the CSFV IRES and suggests the possibility of multiple, independent recombination events between the genomes of thePicornaviridaeandFlaviviridaeto give rise to similar IRES elements.
The C-Terminal nsP1a Protein of Human Astrovirus Is a Phosphoprotein That Interacts with the Viral Polymerase
Authors: Fuentes Cristina , Guix Susana , Bosch Albert , Pintó Rosa M.
Published: February 2011

Human astrovirus nonstructural C-terminal nsP1a protein (nsP1a/4) colocalizes with the endoplasmic reticulum and viral RNA. It has been suggested that nsP1a/4 protein is involved in the RNA replication process in endoplasmic reticulum-derived intracellular membranes. A hypervariable region (HVR) is contained in the nsP1a/4 protein, and different replicative patterns can be distinguished depending on its variability. In the present work, both the astrovirus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and four types (IV, V, VI, and XII) of nsP1a/4 proteins have been cloned and expressed in the baculovirus system to analyze their interactions. Different isoforms of each of the nsP1a/4 proteins exist: a nonphosphorylated isoform and different phosphorylated isoforms. While the polymerase accumulates as a monomer, the nsP1a/4 proteins accumulate as oligomers. The oligomerization domain of nsP1a/4-V is mapped between residues 176 and 209. For all studied genotypes, oligomers mainly contain the nonphosphorylated isoform. When RNA polymerase is coexpressed with nsP1a/4 proteins, they interact, likely forming heterodimers. The polymerase binding region has been mapped in the nsP1a/4-V protein between residues 88 and 176. Phosphorylated isoforms of nsP1a/4 type VI show a stronger interactive pattern with the polymerase than the nonphosphorylated isoform. This difference is not observed in genotypes IV and V, suggesting a role of the HVR in modulating the interaction of the nsP1a/4 protein with the polymerase through phosphorylation/dephosphorylation of some critical residues.
Upregulation of Insulin-Like Growth Factor Binding Protein 3 in Astrocytes of Transgenic Mice That Express Borna Disease Virus Phosphoprotein
Authors: Honda Tomoyuki , Fujino Kan , Okuzaki Daisuke , Ohtaki Naohiro , Matsumoto Yusuke , Horie Masayuki , Daito Takuji , Itoh Masayuki , Tomonaga Keizo
Published: February 2011

In a previous study, we demonstrated that transgenic mice that express Borna disease virus (BDV) phosphoprotein (P) in astrocytes show striking neurobehavioral abnormalities resembling those in BDV-infected animals. To understand the molecular disturbances induced by the expression of P in astrocytes, we performed microarray analysis with cultured astroglial cells transiently expressing P. We showed that expression of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 mRNA increases not only in P-expressing cultured cells but also in astrocytes from the cerebella of P transgenic mice (P-Tg). Furthermore, we demonstrated that insulin-like growth factor signaling is disturbed in the P-Tg cerebellum, a factor that might be involved in the increased vulnerability of Purkinje cell neurons in the brain.