bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rare case of live birth in a ruptured rudimentary horn pregnancy
Authors: Kawthalkar Anjali S. , Gawande Madhuri S. , Jain Sheela H. , Joshi Sulabha A. , Ghike Sunita D. , Bhalerao Anuja V.
Published: April 2011

Pregnancy in the rudimentary horn is a very rare condition. In these cases, rupture of the rudimentary horn in the second trimester with fetal death and catastrophic intraperitoneal hemorrhage is the commonly reported outcome. Silent rupture of the rudimentary horn and continuation of pregnancy as a secondary abdominal pregnancy is the most unusual outcome of this rare condition. We report such a case with a good maternal and neonatal outcome. The case is being reported for its rarity.
Evidence for a role of dystroglycan regulating the membrane architecture of astroglial endfeet
Authors: Noell Susan , Wolburg‐Buchholz Karen , Mack Andreas F. , Beedle Aaron M. , Satz Jakob S. , Campbell Kevin P. , Wolburg Hartwig , Fallier‐Becker Petra
Published: April 2011

The dystrophin–dystroglycan complex (DDC) is a molecular array of proteins in muscle and brain cells. The central component of the DDC is dystroglycan, which comprises α‐ and β‐subunits. α‐Dystroglycan (α‐DG) binds to extracellular matrix components such as agrin, whereas β‐dystroglycan (β‐DG) is a membrane‐spanning protein linking α‐DG to the cytoskeleton and other intracellular components such as α‐syntrophin. In astrocytes, α‐syntrophin binds to the water channel protein aquaporin‐4 (AQP4). Recently, it has been shown that AQP4 expression is unaltered in agrin‐knockout mice, but that formation of orthogonal arrays of particles (OAPs), consisting of AQP4, is abnormal. As the brain‐selective deletion of the DG gene causes a disorganization of the astroglial endfeet, we investigated whether DG deletion has an impact on AQP4. Western blotting revealed reduced AQP4 in the parenchymal but not in the superficial compartment of the astrocyte‐conditioned DG‐knockout mouse brain. Accordingly, immunohistochemical stainings of AQP4 revealed a selective loss of AQP4 in perivascular but not in superficial astroglial endfeet. In both superficial and perivascular endfeet of the DG‐knockout brain, we observed a loss of OAPs. We conclude that in the absence of DG the majority of superficial AQP4 molecules did not form OAPs, and that expression of AQP4 in perivascular endfeet is compromised. However, the decreased number of perivascular AQP4 molecules obviously did form a few OAPs, even in the absence of DG.
A review of orbital and intracranial magnetic resonance imaging in 79 canine and 13 feline patients (2004–2010)
Authors: Armour Micki D. , Broome Michael , Dell’Anna Giuseppe , Blades Natalie J. , Esson Douglas W.
Published: April 2011

Objective To review the distribution of orbital and intracranial disease in canine and feline patients undergoing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) following referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist and to correlate results of MRI with pathologic conditions including neoplasia, suspected optic neuritis (ON) and orbital cellulitis. Recognized and emerging imaging techniques are reviewed.

Procedure Medical records of 79 canine and 13 feline patients were reviewed.

Results Neoplasia was diagnosed in 53/92 (57.6%) of patients. The most prevalent types of neoplasia were carcinoma (16/53, 30.1%), sarcoma (11/53, 20.8%), lymphoma (8/53, 15.1%) and presumptive meningioma (9/53, 17.0%). Carcinomas and sarcomas were characterized by bony lysis and intracranial/sinonasal extension. Lymphoma was generally unilateral, less invasive and originated from the ventromedial orbit. Intracranial masses representing presumptive meningiomas frequently exhibited a ‘dural tail’ sign. Diagnosis of suspected ON was made in 13 of 92 (14.1%) patients. Results of MRI in patients with suspected ON included unilateral optic nerve hyperintensity (3/13, 23.0%), bilateral optic nerve hyperintensity (1/13, 7.7%) and optic chiasmal hyperintensity (3/13, 23.0%). Seven suspected ON patients demonstrated intracranial multifocal patchy contrast enhancement (7/13, 53.8%). Diagnosis of orbital cellulitis was made in 12/92 (13.0%) patients.

Conclusions Orbital neoplasia was the most common pathologic condition detected. Essential Roentgen characteristics are helpful when diagnosing pathologic processes and providing prognoses in cases of orbital or intracranial disease. Magnetic resonance imaging comprises an important diagnostic component in cases of suspected ON. Emerging contrast and functional MRI techniques as well as SI data may increase our ability to characterize disease processes.
A slowly progressive retinopathy in the Shetland Sheepdog
Authors: Karlstam Lena , Hertil Eva , Zeiss Caroline , Ropstad Ernst Otto , Bjerkås Ellen , Dubielzig Richard R. , Ekesten Björn
Published: April 2011

Objective  To describe a slowly progressive retinopathy (SPR) in Shetland Sheepdogs.

Animals  Forty adult Shetlands Sheepdogs with ophthalmoscopic signs of SPR and six normal Shetland Sheepdogs were included in the study.

Procedure  Ophthalmic examination including slit‐lamp biomicroscopy and ophthalmoscopy was performed in all dogs. Electroretinograms and obstacle course‐test were performed in 13 affected and 6 normal dogs. The SPR dogs were subdivided into two groups according to their dark‐adapted b‐wave amplitudes. SPR1‐dogs had ophthalmoscopic signs of SPR, but normal dark‐adapted b‐wave amplitudes. Dogs with both ophthalmoscopic signs and subnormal, dark‐adapted b‐wave amplitudes were assigned to group SPR2. Eyes from two SPR2 dogs were obtained for microscopic examination.

Results  The ophthalmoscopic changes included bilateral, symmetrical, greyish discoloration in the peripheral tapetal fundus with normal or marginally attenuated vessels. Repeated examination showed that the ophthalmoscopic changes slowly spread across the central parts of the tapetal fundus, but did not progress to obvious neuroretinal thinning presenting as tapetal hyper‐reflectivity. The dogs did not appear seriously visually impaired. SPR2 showed significantly reduced b‐wave amplitudes throughout dark‐adaptation. Microscopy showed thinning of the outer nuclear layer and abnormal appearance of rod and cone outer segments. Testing for the progressive rod–cone degeneration ( prcd )‐mutation in three dogs with SPR was negative.

Conclusion  Slowly progressive retinopathy is a generalized rod–cone degeneration that on ophthalmoscopy looks similar to early stages of progressive retinal atrophy. The ophthalmoscopic findings are slowly progressive without tapetal hyper‐reflectivity. Visual impairment is not obvious and the electroretinogram is more subtly altered than in progressive retinal atrophy. The etiology remains unclear. SPR is not caused by the prcd‐mutation.
Neuromuscular blockade with rocuronium bromide for ophthalmic surgery in horses
Authors: Auer Ulrike , Moens Yves
Published: April 2011

Purpose  The production of a central eye to ease surgical access for intraocular surgery is generally dependent on the depth of anesthesia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the eyeball position under muscle relaxation with rocuronium during general anesthesia.

Material and methods  Twenty horses, body weight 480 ± 62 kg; age 12.6 ± 6.2 years (mean ± SD) were anesthetised for various ophthalmic surgeries. Horses were premedicated with acepromazine, xylazine, and butorphanol intravenously and anesthesia induced with ketamine and diazepam. Anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane in 100% oxygen and 0.6 mL/kg/h of an infusion containing midazolam, ketamine, and xylazine diluted in 500 mL 0.9% NaCl. Horses were mechanically ventilated. Neuromuscular function was assessed with an acceleromyograph (TOF‐Guard®) and the N. peroneus superficialis was stimulated every 15 s with a train‐of‐four stimulation pattern. A dose of 0.3 mg/kg rocuronium was administered intravenously. The changes in the eyeball position were recorded.

Results  The dose of 0.3 mg/kg rocuronium produced a 100% neuromuscular block in all horses. Onset time and clinical duration of block was 2.38 ± 2.02 min (range 0.5–8) and 32 ± 18.6 min (range 7.7–76.2), respectively. The globe rotated to central position within 31 ± 2.8 s. The whole iris was visible after 42 ± 7.7 s in all horses. No additional bolus of rocuronium was necessary for any surgery.

Conclusion  Neuromuscular blockade with rocuronium bromide can be used safely to facilitate ophthalmic surgery in equines.
In vivo measurement of central corneal thickness in normal chicks (Gallus gallus domesticus) with the optical low‐coherence reflectometer
Authors: Tappeiner Christoph , Goldblum David , Katsoulis Konstantinos , Sarra Gian‐Marco , Frueh Beatrice E.
Published: April 2011

Objective  To determine the practicability and accuracy of central corneal thickness (CCT) measurements in living chicks utilizing a noncontact, high‐speed optical low‐coherence reflectometer (OLCR) mounted on a slit lamp.

Animals studied  Twelve male chicks (Gallus gallus domesticus).

Procedures  Measurements of CCT were obtained in triplicate in 24 eyes of twelve 1‐day‐old anaesthetized chicks using OLCR. Every single measurement taken by OLCR consisted of the average result of 20 scans obtained within seconds. Additionally, corneal thickness was determined histologically after immersion fixation in Karnovsky’s solution alone (20 eyes) or with a previous injection of the fixative into the anterior chamber before enucleation (4 eyes).

Results  Central corneal thickness measurements using OLCR in 1‐day‐old living chicks provide a rapid and feasible examination technique. Mean CCT measured with OLCR (189.7 ± 3.34 μm) was significantly lower than histological measurements (242.1 ± 47.27 μm) in eyes with fixation in Karnovsky’s solution (P = 0.0005). In eyes with additional injection of Karnovsky’s fixative into the anterior chamber, mean histologically determined CCT was 195.2 ± 8.25 μm vs. 191.9 ± 8.90 μm with OLCR. A trend for a lower variance was found compared to the eyes that had only been immersion fixed.

Conclusion  Optical low‐coherence reflectometry is an accurate examination technique to measure in vivo CCT in the eye of newborn chicks. The knowledge of the thickness of the chick cornea and the ability to obtain noninvasive, noncontact measurements of CCT in the living animal may be of interest for research and development of eye diseases in chick models.
Measurements of canine aqueous humor inflammatory mediators and the effect of carprofen following anterior chamber paracentesis
Authors: Pinard Chantale L. , Gauvin Dominique , Moreau Maxim , Martel‐Pelletier Johanne , Pelletier Jean‐Pierre , Troncy Eric
Published: April 2011

Objectives Phase I:To evaluate levels of prostaglandin E2(PGE2), nitrites and nitrates (NOx), tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) and expression of inducible cyclo‐oxygenase (COX‐2), nitric oxide synthase (NOS‐2), and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP‐3 and ‐9) in canine aqueous humor following repeated anterior chamber paracenteses (ACP).Phase II:to evaluate the effect of carprofen on PGE2, NOx, and TNF‐α in canine aqueous humor following ACP.

Animals studied Four beagles in phase I and 8 beagles in phase II.

Procedures Phase I:ACP was performed at time (T) 0, 4 and 8 h.Phase II:A randomized, placebo‐controlled cross‐over design with four dogs per group where carprofen was given 4.4 mg/kg/day on day (D) 1, 2 and 3. ACP was performed at T0 and T1.5 on D3. Statistical analysis was performed with repeated measuresanovaandpost hocTukey‐Kramer multiple‐comparison procedure. In phase II, TNF‐α level was analyzed with a Wilcoxon signed‐rank test.

Results Phase I: PGE2significantly increased (P < 0.0001) to plateau at T4. NOXwas decreased at T4 (P < 0.06), but increased at T8 (P < 0.0001). COX‐2 showed detectable expression only at T8. TNF‐α, NOS‐2, MMP‐3 and ‐9 were undetectable at all time points.Phase II: At T1.5, PGE2was significantly elevated in both groups but was lower in the carprofen group (P = 0.037). NOxand TNF‐α did not statistically increase in either group.

Conclusions Following ACP, significant increases in PGE2levels confirmed inflammation characterized by a rise of COX‐2. The NOxpathway took longer to induce as compared with PGE2. Carprofen decreased PGE2levels and could help control intraocular inflammation.
Mitomycin C: a promising agent for the treatment of canine corneal scarring
Authors: Gupta Rangan , Yarnall Benjamin W. , Giuliano Elizabeth A. , Kanwar Jagat R. , Buss Dylan G. , Mohan Rajiv R.
Published: April 2011

Objective To evaluate the safety and efficacy of mitomycin C (MMC) in prevention of canine corneal scarring.

Methods With anin vitroapproach using healthy canine corneas, cultures of primary canine corneal fibroblasts or myofibroblasts were generated. Primary canine corneal fibroblasts were obtained by growing corneal buttons in minimal essential medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum. Canine corneal myofibroblasts were produced by growing cultures in serum‐free medium containing transforming growth factor β1 (1 ng/mL). Trypan blue assay and phase‐contrast microscopy were used to evaluate the toxicity of three doses of MMC (0.002%, 0.02% and 0.04%). Real‐time PCR, immunoblot, and immunocytochemistry techniques were used to determine MMC efficacy to inhibit markers of canine corneal scarring.

Results A single 2‐min treatment of 0.02% or less MMC did not alter canine corneal fibroblast or keratocyte phenotype, viability, or growth. The 0.02% dose substantially reduced myofibroblast formation (up to 67%;P < 0.001), as measured by the change in RNA and protein expression of fibrosis biomarkers (α‐smooth muscle actin and F‐actin).

Conclusion Thisin vitrostudy suggests that a single 2‐min 0.02% MMC treatment to the canine corneal keratocytes is safe and may be useful in decreasing canine corneal fibrous metaplasia.In vivostudies are warranted.
The effect of ocular blinkers on the horses’ reactions to four different visual and audible stimuli: results of a crossover trial
Authors: Dziezyc Joan , Taylor Lathrop , Boggess May M. , Scott H. Morgan
Published: April 2011

Objective  To determine the effect of ocular blinkers on driving horses’ reactions to visual and audible stimuli.

Design  Balanced crossover trial with horses randomly assigned to either wear blinkers or not wear blinkers first or second, then subjected to repeated sequences of four distinct stimuli (chain rattle, cap gun, umbrella opening, and shaking of an aluminum can containing coins). Two weeks later, this process was repeated with the ordering of wearing blinkers reversed.

Animal studied  Eight driving horses of various breeds.

Procedures  Responses were recorded quantitatively as inter‐beat times (the time between each heart beat in msec) and qualitatively via video recording. Statistical analysis of the first 10 s of inter‐beat times poststimulus assessed the effect of the presence of blinkers, order of blinker application and stimulus type using a linear regression model with a random effect for horse.

Results  Wearing blinkers is significantly associated with a decrease in the inter‐beat times (increase in heart rate) when they are worn by horses experiencing an unfamiliar sound. However, wearing blinkers is significantly associated with an increase in the inter‐beat times (decrease in heart rate) when worn by horses experiencing a primarily visual, familiar stimulus.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance  Trained driving horses, when they wear blinkers, have a decrease in inter‐beat time (an increase in heart rate) when there is an unfamiliar sound. This may have relevance to horses who have limited vision caused by trauma or disease.
Mortierella wolfiikeratomycosis in a horse
Authors: Wada Shinya , Ode Hirotaka , Hobo Seiji , Niwa Hidekazu , Katayama Yoshinari , Takatori Kosuke
Published: April 2011

Purpose To describe a case of superficial keratomycosis caused byMortierella wolfii(M. wolfii) in a horse.

Methods A thoroughbred filly was presented with painful right eye of 2 days’ duration. A superficial corneal ulcer was observed ventrally together with multifocal punctuate opacities axially. Samples were collected by swabbing and scraping the ulcerated lesion and submitted for microbiologic and cytologic examination.

Results Microscopic evaluation of debrided corneal tissue revealed the presence of nonseptate fungal hyphae, and culture of a corneal swab yielded fungal growth. Medical treatment with topical antifungal, antibiotic and autogenous serum and systemic anti‐inflammatory resolved the problem within 2 weeks.

Conclusions Cytologic evaluation of a corneal scraping was useful to make a clinical diagnosis of keratomycosis. Based on the mycological characteristics, the fungus isolated from the corneal lesion was identified asM. wolfii. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case report of equine keratomycosis associated with this fungus, although the organism is known to infect various organs of cattle.
Repair of a scleral defect with an autogenous fascia lata graft in a dog
Authors: Grundon Rachael A , Hardman Chloe , O’Reilly Anu , Stanley Robin G
Published: April 2011

A case of a traumatic scleral rupture with uveal herniation in a dog was treated with an autogenous fascia lata graft. Placement of the graft resolved the uveal prolapse and resulted in return of strength and a more normal structure. Fascia lata appears to be an effective scaffolding graft for the repair of scleral defects. It is cheap, easily harvested and large grafts may be obtained. Healing was rapid and the end result was a cosmetic, comfortable, fully functional eye.
Postoperative glaucoma in the Labrador Retriever: incidence, risk factors, and visual outcome following routine phacoemulsification
Authors: Moeller Emily , Blocker Tiffany , Esson Douglas , Madsen Richard
Published: April 2011

Objective To evaluate the incidence and risk factors associated with development of postoperative glaucoma in the Labrador Retriever following routine phacoemulsification.

Methods Medical records from Labradors and a randomly selected population of non‐Labradors were retrospectively evaluated. Signalment, diabetic status, cataract stage, gonioscopic findings, presence of preoperative lens‐induced uveitis, development of postoperative hypertension (POH), postoperative glaucoma and postoperative visual status were recorded for each patient. Survival curves were developed using the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results Forty‐two Labradors (66 eyes) and 199 non‐Labradors (314 eyes) were included. The incidence of POH was significantly higher in Labradors (33%) than non‐Labradors (18%). Labradors were at significantly increased risk of postoperative glaucoma and blindness compared to non‐Labradors. Estimated probabilities of postoperative glaucoma in Labradors were 23%, 25%, 30% and 35% at weeks 4, 26, 52 and 104, respectively, compared with 5%, 6%, 7% and 9% at weeks 4, 26, 52 and 104, respectively, in non‐Labradors. Estimated probabilities of postoperative blindness in Labradors were 5%, 9%, 15% and 27% at weeks 4, 26, 52 and 104, respectively, compared with 2%, 3%, 5% and 10% at weeks 4, 26, 52 and 104, respectively, in non‐Labradors. Risk factors for the development of glaucoma in Labradors included increasing age and development of POH. No statistically significant risk factors for the development of glaucoma were identified in non‐Labradors.

Conclusions Labradors are at increased risk of glaucoma and blindness following phacoemulsification compared with non‐Labradors. POH and increasing age represent risk factors for the development of postoperative glaucoma in Labradors.
Comparative morphology and cytology of the alimentary tract in lizardfishes (Teleostei, Aulopiformes, Synodontidae)
Authors: Fishelson Lev , Golani Daniel , Russell Barry , Galil Bella , Goren Menachem
Published: April 2011

Fishelson, L., Golani, D., Russell, B., Galil, B. and Goren, M. 2012. Comparative morphology and cytology of the alimentary tract in lizardfishes (Teleostei, Aulopiformes, Synodontidae). —Acta Zoologica (Stockholm) 93: 308–318.

This study compares the morphology and cytology of the alimentary tract in several species of lizardfishes (Synodontidae, Teleostei) of the genera Saurida, Synodus, and Trachinocephalus, in relation to their diets and bathymetric distribution. All the studied species feature a large, pouch‐like stomach, with the intestine beginning at the stomach’s anterior apex, adjacent to the esophageal opening. In the more ‘microphagous’Synodus spp. and Trachinocephalus, the intestine bends twice before reaching the anus, whereas in the more ‘macrophagous’Saurida spp., the intestine extends straight to the anus. The species differ also in the number and form of their pyloric ceca, the length of the intestine and in the percentile relationship between stomach length and standard body length. Along the alimentary tract folds and villi protrude into the lumen, their numbers differing on various sites of the tract. Three cell types make up the gastric gland system: (1) pyramidal cells forming the tubular gastric glands in the lamina propria; among them are large, pale secretary cells; (2) groups of neck cells that surround the pits of the tubules; and (3) groups of large and granule‐rich cells at the end portion of the stomach. All species are carnivorous and uniform in morphology, the differences in the alimentary tract found between the more shallow‐water species of Synodus and Trachinocephalus, and the deeper‐dwelling Saurida, seem to be only partly correlated with the differences in diet.
Implied volatility smiles, option mispricing and net buying pressure: evidence around the global financial crisis
Authors: Larkin J. , Brooksby A. , Lin C. T. , Zurbruegg R.
Published: April 2011

Using the recent global financial crisis as an exogenous setting, we examine the presence and source of implied volatility smile phenomena in Australian S&P ASX 200 index options. We find a pronounced implied volatility smile for index puts in both bull and bear markets and a smile for index calls in the bear but not bull market. Implied volatilities of out‐of‐the money puts tend to be upwards biased whilst those of calls tend to be downwards biased. We also find that the bias in implied volatilities yields excess returns based on unhedged and delta‐neutral trading strategies, suggesting that implied volatilities are related to option mispricing. Net buying pressure from market participants appears to be a source of mispricing in the case of out‐of‐the‐money index puts with excess demand particularly pronounced during the bull period before the global financial crisis unfolded.
Border Wars: Tax Revenues, Annexation, and Urban Growth in Phoenix
Authors: HEIM CAROL E.
Published: April 2011

Phoenix and neighboring municipalities, like many in the South and West, pursued a growth strategy based on annexation in the decades after the second world war. This article explores the link between annexation and competition for tax revenues. After discussing arguments for annexation, it traces the history of annexation in the Phoenix metropolitan area. A long‐running series of ‘border wars’ entailed litigation, pre‐emptive annexations and considerable intergovernmental conflict. The article argues that tax revenues have been a key motivation for municipalities to seek annexation, particularly since the 1970s. The timing of annexation was an important component of the strategies of municipal officials. Developers sought urban economic growth, but did not always favor political expansion of municipal boundaries through annexation. The article then considers several related policy issues and argues that while opportunities for annexation are becoming more limited, competition for tax revenues (particularly sales‐tax revenues) continues to be fierce, creating dilemmas for municipalities in the region.

Dans les décennies qui ont suivi la seconde guerre mondiale, Phoenix et plusieurs communes limitrophes, comme beaucoup dans le Sud et l'Ouest, ont appliqué une stratégie de croissance fondée sur l'annexion. L'article étudie le lien entre annexion et compétition en matière de recettes fiscales. Après un examen des arguments en faveur de l'annexion, il retrace son historique dans la zone métropolitaine de Phoenix. Une longue succession de ‘guerres des frontières' a occasionné des litiges, des annexions préventives et un conflit important entre autorités publiques. Il est montré que les rentrées fiscales ont fortement incité les municipalités à rechercher les annexions, en particulier depuis les années 1970. Le calendrier de ces opérations a pesé dans les stratégies des dirigeants municipaux. Quant aux promoteurs, en quête de croissance économique urbaine, ils ne prônaient pas toujours l'extension politique des frontières municipales par annexion. L'article envisage donc plusieurs aspects politiques connexes et soutient que, si les possibilités d'annexion se restreignent, la concurrence en matière de recettes fiscales (l'imposition sur les ventes notamment) reste acharnée, créant des dilemmes pour les autorités municipales de la région.
Dravet syndrome and SCN1A gene mutation related‐epilepsies: cognitive impairment and its determinants
Authors: GUERRINI RENZO , FALCHI MELANIA
Published: April 2011

Some studies have demonstrated that cognitive decline occurs in Dravet syndrome, starting shortly after the onset of seizures, rapidly progressing and then plateauing within a few years. It is unclear whether children that develop the syndrome had entirely normal cognitive skills before seizure onset, since subtle impairment easily escapes recognition in small infants. It is also difficult to demonstrate whether a recognisable profile of cognitive impairment or a definite behavioural phenotype exists. No clear‐cut imaging or neuropathological marker or substrate has been recognised for cognitive impairment in this syndrome. However, there are different potentially causative factors, including the specific effects on the Nav1.1 channels caused by the underlying genic or genomic defect; frequent and prolonged convulsive and non‐convulsive seizures or status epilepticus; recurrent subtle ictal phenomena, such as that accompanying pronounced visual sensitivity; the use of antiepileptic drugs with cognitive side effects, especially in heavy multiple‐drug therapy; and the restrictions that children with severe epilepsy inevitably undergo.
Current therapeutic procedures in Dravet syndrome
Authors: CHIRON CATHERINE
Published: April 2011

Dravet syndrome is a highly pharmaco‐resistant form of epilepsy. Valproate and benzodiazepines are the first‐line treatment but are usually insufficient therapeutic options. Lamotrigine, carbamazepine and high doses of intravenous phenobarbital can aggravate seizures and should be avoided. Topiramate, levetiracetam, bromide and ketogenic diet also provide substantial efficacy as adjunctive therapy and procedures. Stiripentol is the only new drug to demonstrate efficacy when combined with valproate and clobazam, as shown in two independent double‐blind controlled trials dedicated to Dravet children. In order to avoid side effects (mainly loss of appetite and loss of weight) resulting from the inhibition of cytochromes P450 by stiripentol, the prescribed doses of valproate and clobazam should be reduced. Stiripentol has a proper antiepileptic effect and enhances GABAergic neurotransmission by acting on the alpha‐3 subunit of GABAA receptors. Stiripentol was approved as an orphan drug in Europe in 2007 for adjunctive therapy in Dravet syndrome. More than 500 Dravet patients have currently been satisfactorily treated and recent experiments in Japan have confirmed stiripentol’s benefit. In practice, valproate should be initiated at the first onset of complicated febrile seizure in Dravet patients. Relapses justify the addition of clobazam and stiripentol when available. Topiramate and a ketogenic diet are alternatives in pharmaco‐resistant cases.
Overall management of patients with Dravet syndrome
Authors: CEULEMANS BERTEN
Published: April 2011

Dravet syndrome, or as it was called in the past ‘severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy’, is a drug‐resistant epilepsy first described by Charlotte Dravet in 1978. Besides the well‐known and well‐described therapy resistance, Dravet syndrome dramatically impacts the development and behaviour of the affected children. As it is still not a curable disease, families need to be taught how to cope with the disorder and will require assistance from both clinical and non‐clinical structures. At the onset of the disease, many questions arise regarding the diagnosis of Dravet syndrome, the severity of the illness and its deleterious effects, and the management of seizures, especially the long‐lasting status epilepticus. Once the diagnosis has been established, severe convulsions, often unpredictable and long‐lasting, are still a major worry, but developmental and behavioural problems also rapidly become a serious concern. Later on, nearly all parents will have a child who becomes an adult with special needs, requiring specialised attention from professionals.
Longer term test–retest reliability of error‐related brain activity
Authors: Weinberg Anna , Hajcak Greg
Published: April 2011

The error‐related negativity (ERN) is a negative deflection in the event‐related potential (ERP) following an erroneous response and is thought to reflect activity of the anterior cingulate cortex. There is accumulating evidence that the component has trait‐like properties; prior evidence further suggests test–retest reliability estimates ranging from .40 to .82 over a period of 2 to 6 weeks. The present study examined temporal stability over a longer time period. Error‐related brain activity was recorded from 26 subjects during an arrow version of the flankers task on two occasions separated by 1.5 to 2.5 years. Depending on the scoring method, test–retest reliability of the ERN ranged from .56 to .67. These data are consistent with previous suggestions that the ERN is a moderately stable, trait‐like neural measure.
The absence of a visual stimulus can trigger task‐set‐independent attentional capture
Authors: Kiss Monika , Eimer Martin
Published: April 2011

We investigated whether the absence of one item in a regularly spaced visual array (gap cue) captures attention in a task‐set‐independent fashion. Participants searched for a large target among medium‐size distractors (size task) or a red target among gray distractors (color task). Target arrays were preceded by uninformative cue arrays that contained a color singleton or a gap cue. The N2pc component was measured as an index of attentional capture. Color singleton cues captured attention only in the color task, but gap cues captured attention in both tasks. For cue arrays containing a color singleton and a gap cue on opposite sides, an N2pc was triggered by the color singleton in the color task. The absence of an item in a regular array triggered task‐set‐independent attentional capture when it was the only unique display feature, but not when a competing set‐matching singleton was simultaneously present.
Differential frontal‐parietal phase synchrony during hypnosis as a function of hypnotic suggestibility
Authors: Terhune Devin Blair , Cardeña Etzel , Lindgren Magnus
Published: April 2011

Spontaneous dissociative alterations in awareness and perception among highly suggestible individuals following a hypnotic induction may result from disruptions in the functional coordination of the frontal‐parietal network. We recorded EEG and self‐reported state dissociation in control and hypnosis conditions in two sessions with low and highly suggestible participants. Highly suggestible participants reliably experienced greater state dissociation and exhibited lower frontal‐parietal phase synchrony in the alpha2 frequency band during hypnosis than low suggestible participants. These findings suggest that highly suggestible individuals exhibit a disruption of the frontal‐parietal network that is only observable following a hypnotic induction.
In vivo measurement of regional variation in anterior scleral resistance to Schiotz indentation
Authors: Patel Hetal , Gilmartin Bernard , Cubbidge Robert P , Logan Nicola S
Published: April 2011

Citation information: Patel H, Gilmartin B, Cubbidge RP & Logan NS. In vivo measurement of regional variation in anterior scleral resistance to Schiotz indentation. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2011, 31, 437–443. doi: 10.1111/j.1475‐1313.2011.00840.x

Purpose:  Recent studies indicate that ocular and scleral rigidity is pertinent to our understanding of glaucoma, age related macular degeneration and the development and pathogenesis of myopia. The principal method of measuring ocular rigidity is by extrapolation of data from corneal indentation tonometry (Ko) using Friedenwald’s transformation algorithms. Using scleral indentation (Schiotz tonometry) we assess whether regional variations in resistance to indentation occur in vivo across the human anterior globe directly, with reference to the deflection of Schiotz scale readings.

Methods:  Data were collected from both eyes of 26 normal young adult subjects with a range of refractive error (mean spherical equivalent ± S.D. of −1.77 D ± 3.28 D, range −10.56 to +4.38 D). Schiotz tonometry (5.5 g & 7.5 g) was performed on the cornea and four scleral quadrants; supero‐temporal (ST) and ‐nasal (SN), infero‐temporal (IT) and ‐nasal (IN) approximately 8 mm posterior to the limbus.

Results:  Values of Ko (mm3)−1 were consistent with those previously reported (mean 0.0101 ± 0.0082, range 0.0019–0.0304). In regards to the sclera, significant differences (p < 0.001) were found across quadrants with indentation readings for both loads between means for the cornea and ST; ST and SN; ST and IT, ST and IN. Mean (±S.D.) scale readings for 5.5 g were: cornea 5.93 ± 1.14, ST 8.05 ± 1.58, IT 7.03 ± 1.86, SN 6.25 ± 1.10, IN 6.02 ± 1.49; and 7.5 g: cornea 9.26 ± 1.27, ST 11.56 ± 1.65, IT 10.31 ± 1.74, SN 9.91 ± 1.20, IN 9.50 ± 1.56.

Conclusions:  Significant regional variation was found in the resistance of the anterior sclera to indentation produced by the Schiotz tonometer.
Can soil moisture deficit be used to forecast when soils are at high risk of damage owing to grazing animals?
Authors: Piwowarczyk A. , Giuliani G. , Holden N. M.
Published: April 2011

A potentially significant cause of damage to grassland soils is compaction of unsaturated soil and poaching of saturated or nearly saturated soil by animal hooves. Damage is caused when an applied stress is in excess of the bearing strength of the soil and results in a loss of soil structure, macroporosity and air or water conductivity. Severely damaged soils can cause reduced grassland productivity and make grazing management very difficult for the farmer. The actual amount of soil damage that can occur during grazing is dependent on the grass cover which acts as a protecting layer, the soil water content and the characteristics of the grazing animal (weight and hoof size). Assuming that the farmer is knowledgeable about the characteristics of the grazing animal and grass cover, it would be very useful for short‐term operational farm planning to be able to predict when soil water contents were likely to be in a critical range with respect to potential hoof damage. In this study soil moisture deficits (SMDs) which can be derived from meteorological forecasts are evaluated for predicting when soil water conditions are likely to lead to hoof damage. Two contrasting Irish grassland soils were analysed using a Hounsfield servo‐mechanical vertical testing machine to simulate static (285.4 N) and dynamic (571 N) hoof loads on the soil over a range of estimated SMDs (0, 5, 10 and 20 mm). The deficits were analysed with respect to the soil volumetric water content, compression (displacement) and change in dry bulk density. The SMDs imposed in the laboratory were similar to those under field conditions and thus the methods used in this study are applicable elsewhere. The change in dry bulk density following loading (0.2–0.7 g/cm3) was linearly related to SMD (R2 ranged from 0.90 to 0.99), leading to the conclusion that a forecast of SMD can be used to predict when grassland soils are likely to be at risk of damage from grazing.
Land‐use effects on the distribution of soil organic carbon within particle‐size fractions of volcanic soils in the Transmexican Volcanic Belt (Mexico)
Authors: Covaleda S. , Gallardo J. F. , García‐Oliva F. , Kirchmann H. , Prat C. , Bravo M. , Etchevers J. D.
Published: April 2011

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of land‐use and forest cover depletion on the distribution of soil organic carbon (SOC) within particle‐size fractions in a volcanic soil. Emphasis was given to the thermal properties of soils. Six representative sites in Mexico were selected in an area dominated by Andosols: a grassland site, four forested sites with different levels of degradation and an agricultural site. Soils were fractionated using ultrasonic energy until complete dispersion was achieved. The particle‐size fractions were coarse sand, fine sand, silt, clay and particulate organic matter from the coarse sand sized fraction (POM‐CS) and fine sand (POM‐FS). Soil organic carbon decreased by 70% after forest conversion to cropland and long‐term cultivation; forest cover loss resulted in a decrease in SOC of up to 60%. The grassland soil contained 45% more SOC than the cropland one. Soil organic carbon was mainly associated with the silt‐size fraction; the most sensitive fractions to land‐use change and forest cover depletion were POM followed by SOC associated with the silt and clay‐sized fractions. Particulate organic matter can be used as an early indicator of SOC loss. The C lost from the clay and silt‐sized fractions was thermally labile; therefore, the SOC stored in the more degraded forest soils was more recalcitrant (thermally resistant). Only the transformation of forest to agricultural land produced a similar loss of thermally stable C associated with the silt‐sized fraction.
NEW CHRONOLOGICAL EVIDENCE FOR THE MIDDLE TO UPPER PALAEOLITHIC TRANSITION IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC AND SLOVAKIA: NEW OPTICALLY STIMULATED LUMINESCENCE DATING RESULTS
Authors: NEJMAN L. , RHODES E. , ŠKRDLA P. , TOSTEVIN G. , NERUDA P. , NERUDOVÁ Z. , VALOCH K. , OLIVA M. , KAMINSKÁ L. , SVOBODA J. A. , GRÜN R.
Published: April 2011

We report new optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dates from the Central European sites of Kůlna, Stránská skála, Bohunice, Vedrovice V, Vedrovice Ia, Moravský Krumlov IV and Dzeravá skala, which date to the Middle–Upper Palaeolithic transition period. There are important unresolved questions surrounding the timing of archaeological events during this crucial period in European prehistory. Archaeological layers from this time period are at the limits of the14C method and most of these sites lack good chronology. The results of this dating project suggest that some parts of the current chronological framework may need to be revised. Although in many cases our OSL results are broadly consistent with previous dates obtained by14C, in other cases they reveal unexpected surprises. One OSL result from Kůlna opens up the possibility that Neanderthals may have survived in this part of Europe past the 30 kabpmark as has been argued for several Neanderthal sites in southern Europe. The large Szeletian assemblage recovered from Vedrovice V may be significantly older than previously thought, which undermines the idea that the Szeletian culture is exclusively an Early Upper Palaeolithic industry. More dating research is needed to confirm the more controversial results of this research.
Down‐Regulation of TNF‐Alpha by Small Interfering RNA Inhibits Particle‐Induced Inflammation In Vitro
Authors: Qin Chu‐qiang , Ding Yue , Huang Dong‐sheng , Xu Jie , Ma Ruo‐fan , Huang Jian‐bin
Published: April 2011

Aseptic joint loosening is a key factor that reduces the life span of arthroplasty. There are currently few effective treatments for joint loosening except surgical revision. We explored the inhibitory effects of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐alpha‐targeted small interfering RNA (siRNA) on particle‐induced inflammatory cytokine expression in the murine macrophage cell line, RAW264.7. siRNA targeting TNF‐alpha was chemically synthesized and transfected into RAW264.7 cells by cationic liposomes. Ceramic, titanium, and polyethylene particles of different sizes (0.2–1.2 µm and 1.2–10 µm) were prepared to stimulate cells 24 h after siRNA transfection. The down‐regulation of TNF‐alpha mRNA and protein levels was quantitatively determined using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively, at different time intervals. Fluorescence microscopy showed that the siRNA transfection efficiency was 85.2% ± 3.5%. Real‐time PCR showed that the levels of TNF‐alpha mRNA in the particle stimulation plus RNA interference (RNAi) groups were significantly lower compared with the particle stimulation‐only groups 3 h after stimulation (P < 0.05). Similarly, ELISA essays showed that the protein levels of TNF‐alpha in the RNAi‐treated groups were significantly decreased 24 h after transfection (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the inhibitory effect among the groups stimulated by different particle types or particle sizes (P > 0.05). Our results indicated that siRNA targeting TNF‐alpha can inhibit TNF‐alpha release from RAW264.7 cells when stimulated by ceramic, titanium, and polyethylene particles of different sizes and that the inhibitory effects were not related to the type or size of particle.
Use of Minimized Extracorporeal Circulation System in Noncoronary and Valve Cardiac Surgical Procedures—A Case Series
Authors: Anastasiadis Kyriakos , Chalvatzoulis Omiros , Antonitsis Polychronis , Deliopoulos Apostolos , Argiriadou Helena , Karapanagiotidis Georgios , Kambouroglou Dimitrios , Papakonstantinou Christos
Published: April 2011

The aim of this report is to explore application of minimized cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) circuits in areas of cardiac surgery other than coronary bypass grafting and aortic valve surgery. We report three cases operated under minimal extracorporeal circulation support. Replacement of the descending thoracic aorta was performed in two patients; one with a descending aortic aneurysm and one with pseudoaneurysm formation after previous coarctation repair. We have also implanted a left ventricular assist device for destination therapy. The minimized extracorporeal circulation system provides optimal circulatory support, while it is associated with reduced postoperative morbidity, minimizing the side effects from the use of CPB. Moreover, when off‐pump technique is attempted, it can be used as a standby circuit connected to the patient so as to enhance safety of the procedure. Minimized extracorporeal circulation systems can be used with safety and efficacy in a wide range of cardiac surgeries including descending aorta pathology and assist device implantation.
Direct Democracy and Minority Rights: Same‐Sex Marriage Bans in the U.S. States*
Authors: Lewis Daniel C.
Published: April 2011

Objectives.A common critique of direct democracy posits that minority rights are endangered by citizen legislative institutions. By allowing citizens to directly create public policy, these institutions avoid the filtering mechanisms of representative democracy that provide a check on the power of the majority. Empirical research, however, has produced conflicting results that leave the question of direct democracy's effect on minority rights open to debate. This article seeks to empirically test this critique using a comparative, dynamic approach.

Methods.I examine the diffusion of same‐sex marriage bans in the United States using event‐history analysis, comparing direct‐democracy states to non‐direct‐democracy states.

Results.The results show that direct‐democracy states are significantly more likely than other states to adopt same‐sex marriage bans.

Conclusion.The findings support the majoritarian critique of direct democracy, suggesting that the rights of minority groups are at relatively higher risk under systems with direct democracy.
Long‐term zooplankton responses to nutrient and consumer subsidies arising from migratory sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka)
Authors: Chen Guangjie , Selbie Daniel T. , Finney Bruce P. , Schindler Daniel E. , Bunting Lynda , Leavitt Peter R. , Gregory‐Eaves Irene
Published: April 2011

Migratory animals, such as Pacific salmon, can significantly shape communities in recipient habitats both by altering the flux of resources, and changing community composition and subsequent trophic interactions. Here we mainly used paleoecological records from natural sockeye salmon nursery lakes to quantify the response of plankton communities to the influx of salmon‐derived nutrients and consumers (juvenile salmon). Our long‐term data show that increases in the density of spawning salmon often elevated influx of nutrients, and, in turn, zooplankton production over the past few centuries. In contrast, significant correlations were not detected in two lakes with extremely low or high average spawner densities (i.e. 1.5 and 34.7 × 103 spawners km−2 year−1 respectively). With increasing spawner densities across lakes, analysis of the size structure of subfossils in sediments revealed a strong decrease in body size of a main juvenile salmon prey item (Eubosmina longispina; r2= 0.36, p < 0.001, n = 67), consistent with an overriding effect of predation in lakes with high salmon densities. These long‐term data not only highlight the key role of salmon‐derived nutrients in stimulating plankton communities, but also suggest that the relative effect of nutrient and consumer subsidies varies along gradients of lake production, despite a single ultimate causal mechanism (migrating fish).
Virulence and competitive ability in an obligately killing parasite
Authors: Bashey Farrah , Reynolds Courtney , Sarin Tara , Young Sara K.
Published: April 2011

Mixed infections are thought to have a major influence on the evolution of parasite virulence. During a mixed infection, higher within‐host parasite growth is favored under the assumption that it is critical to the competitive success of the parasite. As within‐host parasite growth may also increase damage to the host, a positive correlation is predicted between virulence and competitive success. However, when parasites must kill their hosts in order be transmitted, parasites may spend energy on directly attacking their host, even at the cost of their within‐host growth. In such systems, a negative correlation between virulence and competitive success may arise. We examined virulence and competitive ability in three sympatric species of obligately killing nematode parasites in the genus Steinernema. These nematodes exist in a mutualistic symbiosis with bacteria in the genus Xenorhabdus. Together the nematodes and their bacteria kill the insect host soon after infection, with reproduction of both species occurring mainly after host death. We found significant differences among the three nematode species in the speed of host killing. The nematode species with the lowest and highest levels of virulence were associated with the same species of Xenorhabdus, indicating that nematode traits, rather than the bacterial symbionts, may be responsible for the differences in virulence. In mixed infections, host mortality rate closely matched that associated with the more virulent species, and the more virulent species was found to be exclusively transmitted from the majority of coinfected hosts. Thus, despite the requirement of rapid host death, virulence appears to be positively correlated with competitive success in this system. These findings support a mechanistic link between parasite growth and both anti‐competitor and anti‐host factors.