bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Random Networks with Preferential Growth and Vertex Death
Authors: Deijfen Maria
Published: January 2011

A dynamic model for a random network evolving in continuous time is defined, where new vertices are born and existing vertices may die. The fitness of a vertex is defined as the accumulated in-degree of the vertex and a new vertex is connected to an existing vertex with probability proportional to a function b of the fitness of the existing vertex. Furthermore, a vertex dies at a rate given by a function d of its fitness. Using results from the theory of general branching processes, an expression for the asymptotic empirical fitness distribution {pk} is derived and analyzed for a number of specific choices of b and d. When b(i) = i + α and d(i) = β, that is, linear preferential attachment for the newborn and random deaths, then pk ∼ k-(2+α). When b(i) = i + 1 and d(i) = β(i + 1), with β < 1, then pk ∼ (1 + β)−k, that is, if the death rate is also proportional to the fitness, then the power-law distribution is lost. Furthermore, when b(i) = i + 1 and d(i) = β(i + 1)γ, with β, γ < 1, then logpk ∼ -kγ, a stretched exponential distribution. The momentaneous in-degrees are also studied and simulations suggest that their behaviour is qualitatively similar to that of the fitnesses.
On Tails of Perpetuities
Authors: Hitczenko Paweł
Published: January 2011

We establish an upper bound on the tails of a random variable that arises as a solution of a stochastic difference equation. In the nonnegative case our bound is similar to a lower bound obtained in Goldie and Grübel (1996).
A Central Limit Theorem for Reversible Processes with Nonlinear Growth of Variance
Authors: Zhao Ou , Woodroofe Michael , Volný Dalibor
Published: January 2011

Kipnis and Varadhan (1986) showed that, for an additive functional, Sn say, of a reversible Markov chain, the condition E[Sn2] / n → κ ∈ (0, ∞) implies the convergence of the conditional distribution of Sn / √E[Sn2], given the starting point, to the standard normal distribution. We revisit this question under the weaker condition, E[Sn2] = nl(n), where l is a slowly varying function. It is shown by example that the conditional distributions of Sn / √E[Sn2] need not converge to the standard normal distribution in this case; and sufficient conditions for convergence to a (possibly nonstandard) normal distribution are developed.
Evolutionary crossroads in developmental biology: Dictyostelium discoideum
Authors: Schaap Pauline
Published: January 2011

Dictyostelium discoideum belongs to a group of multicellular life forms that can also exist for long periods as single cells. This ability to shift between uni- and multicellularity makes the group ideal for studying the genetic changes that occurred at the crossroads between uni- and multicellular life. In this Primer, I discuss the mechanisms that control multicellular development in Dictyostelium discoideum and reconstruct how some of these mechanisms evolved from a stress response in the unicellular ancestor.
F3/contactin and TAG1 play antagonistic roles in the regulation of sonic hedgehog-induced cerebellar granule neuron progenitor proliferation
Authors: Xenaki Dia , Martin Indira B. , Yoshida Lynn , Ohyama Kyoji , Gennarini Gianfranco , Grumet Martin , Sakurai Takeshi , Furley Andrew J. W.
Published: January 2011

Modulation of the sonic hedgehog (SHH) pathway is a crucial factor in cerebellar morphogenesis. Stimulation of granule neuron progenitor (GNP) proliferation is a central function of SHH signalling, but how this is controlled locally is not understood. We show that two sequentially expressed members of the contactin (CNTN) family of adhesion molecules, TAG1 and F3, act antagonistically to control SHH-induced proliferation: F3 suppresses SHH-induced GNP proliferation and induces differentiation, whereas TAG1 antagonises F3. Production of GNPs in TAG1-null mice is delayed and reduced. F3 and TAG1 colocalise on GNPs with the related L1-like adhesion molecule NrCAM, and F3 fails to suppress the SHH-induced proliferation of NrCAM-deficient GNPs. We show that F3 and SHH both primarily affect a group of intermediate GNPs (IPs), which, though actively dividing, also express molecules associated with differentiation, including β-tubulin III (TuJ1) and TAG1. In vivo, intermediate progenitors form a discrete layer in the middle of the external germinal layer (mEGL), while F3 becomes expressed on the axons of postmitotic granule neurons as they leave the inner EGL (iEGL). We propose, therefore, that F3 acts as a localised signal in the iEGL that induces SHH-stimulated cells in the overlying mEGL to exit cell cycle and differentiate. By contrast, expression of TAG1 on GNPs antagonises this signal in the mEGL, preventing premature differentiation and sustaining GNP expansion in a paracrine fashion. Together, these findings indicate that CNTN and L1-like proteins play a significant role in modulating SHH-induced neuronal precursor proliferation.
Sugar-free frosting, a homolog of SAD kinase, drives neural-specific glycan expression in the Drosophila embryo
Authors: Baas Sarah , Sharrow Mary , Kotu Varshika , Middleton Meg , Nguyen Khoi , Flanagan-Steet Heather , Aoki Kazuhiro , Tiemeyer Michael
Published: January 2011

Precise glycan structures on specific glycoproteins impart functionalities essential for neural development. However, mechanisms controlling embryonic neural-specific glycosylation are unknown. A genetic screen for relevant mutations in Drosophila generated the sugar-free frosting (sff) mutant that reveals a new function for protein kinases in regulating substrate flux through specific Golgi processing pathways. Sff is the Drosophila homolog of SAD kinase, which regulates synaptic vesicle tethering and neuronal polarity in nematodes and vertebrates. Our Drosophila sff mutant phenotype has features in common with SAD kinase mutant phenotypes in these other organisms, but we detect altered neural glycosylation well before the initiation of embryonic synaptogenesis. Characterization of Golgi compartmentation markers indicates altered colocalization that is consistent with the detected shift in glycan complexity in sff mutant embryos. Therefore, in analogy to synaptic vesicle tethering, we propose that Sff regulates vesicle tethering at Golgi membranes in the developing Drosophila embryo. Furthermore, neuronal sff expression is dependent on transcellular signaling through a non-neural toll-like receptor, linking neural-specific glycan expression to a kinase activity that is induced in response to environmental cues.
Xenopusgermlinenanos1is translationally repressed by a novel structure-based mechanism
Authors: Luo Xueting , Nerlick Steve , An Weijun , King Mary Lou
Published: January 2011

The translational repressor Nanos is expressed in the germline and stem cell populations of jellyfish as well as humans. Surprisingly, we observed that unlike other mRNAs, synthetic nanos1 RNA translates very poorly if at all after injection into Xenopus oocytes. The current model of simple sequestration of nanos1 within germinal granules is insufficient to explain this observation and suggests that a second level of repression must be operating. We find that an RNA secondary structural element immediately downstream of the AUG start site is both necessary and sufficient to prevent ribosome scanning in the absence of a repressor. Accordingly, repression is relieved by small in-frame insertions before this secondary structure, or translational control element (TCE), that provide the 15 nucleotides required for ribosome entry. nanos1 is translated shortly after fertilization, pointing to the existence of a developmentally regulated activator. Oocyte extracts were rendered fully competent for nanos1 translation after the addition of a small amount of embryo extract, confirming the presence of an activator. Misexpression of Nanos1 in oocytes from unlocalized RNA results in abnormal development, highlighting the importance of TCE-mediated translational repression. Although found in prokaryotes, steric hindrance as a mechanism for negatively regulating translation is novel for a eukaryotic RNA. These observations unravel a new mode of nanos1 regulation at the post-transcriptional level that is essential for normal development.
PDGF-A controls mesoderm cell orientation and radial intercalation duringXenopusgastrulation
Authors: Damm Erich W. , Winklbauer Rudolf
Published: January 2011

Radial intercalation is a common, yet poorly understood, morphogenetic process in the developing embryo. By analyzing cell rearrangement in the prechordal mesoderm during Xenopus gastrulation, we have identified a mechanism for radial intercalation. It involves cell orientation in response to a long-range signal mediated by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF-A) and directional intercellular migration. When PDGF-A signaling is inhibited, prechordal mesoderm cells fail to orient towards the ectoderm, the endogenous source of PDGF-A, and no longer migrate towards it. Consequently, the prechordal mesoderm fails to spread during gastrulation. Orientation and directional migration can be rescued specifically by the expression of a short splicing isoform of PDGF-A, but not by a long matrix-binding isoform, consistent with a requirement for long-range signaling.
C. elegans bicd-1, homolog of theDrosophiladynein accessory factorBicaudal D, regulates the branching of PVD sensory neuron dendrites
Authors: Aguirre-Chen Cristina , Bülow Hannes E. , Kaprielian Zaven
Published: January 2011

The establishment of cell type-specific dendritic arborization patterns is a key phase in the assembly of neuronal circuitry that facilitates the integration and processing of synaptic and sensory input. Although studies in Drosophila and vertebrate systems have identified a variety of factors that regulate dendrite branch formation, the molecular mechanisms that control this process remain poorly defined. Here, we introduce the use of the Caenorhabditis elegans PVD neurons, a pair of putative nociceptors that elaborate complex dendritic arbors, as a tractable model for conducting high-throughput RNAi screens aimed at identifying key regulators of dendritic branch formation. By carrying out two separate RNAi screens, a small-scale candidate-based screen and a large-scale screen of the ∼3000 genes on chromosome IV, we retrieved 11 genes that either promote or suppress the formation of PVD-associated dendrites. We present a detailed functional characterization of one of the genes, bicd-1, which encodes a microtubule-associated protein previously shown to modulate the transport of mRNAs and organelles in a variety of organisms. Specifically, we describe a novel role for bicd-1 in regulating dendrite branch formation and show that bicd-1 is likely to be expressed, and primarily required, in PVD neurons to control dendritic branching. We also present evidence that bicd-1 operates in a conserved pathway with dhc-1 and unc-116, components of the dynein minus-end-directed and kinesin-1 plus-end-directed microtubule-based motor complexes, respectively, and interacts genetically with the repulsive guidance receptor unc-5.
The Wnt receptor Ryk controls specification of GABAergic neurons versus oligodendrocytes during telencephalon development
Authors: Zhong Jingyang , Kim Hyoung-Tai , Lyu Jungmook , Yoshikawa Kazuaki , Nakafuku Masato , Lu Wange
Published: January 2011

GABAergic neurons and oligodendrocytes originate from progenitors within the ventral telencephalon. However, the molecular mechanisms that control neuron-glial cell-fate segregation, especially how extrinsic factors regulate cell-fate changes, are poorly understood. We have discovered that the Wnt receptor Ryk promotes GABAergic neuron production while repressing oligodendrocyte formation in the ventral telencephalon. We demonstrate that Ryk controls the cell-fate switch by negatively regulating expression of the intrinsic oligodendrogenic factor Olig2 while inducing expression of the interneuron fate determinant Dlx2. In addition, we demonstrate that Ryk is required for GABAergic neuron induction and oligodendrogenesis inhibition caused by Wnt3a stimulation. Furthermore, we showed that the cleaved intracellular domain of Ryk is sufficient to regulate the cell-fate switch by regulating the expression of intrinsic cell-fate determinants. These results identify Ryk as a multi-functional receptor that is able to transduce extrinsic cues into progenitor cells, promote GABAergic neuron formation, and inhibit oligodendrogenesis during ventral embryonic brain development.
Do Teenagers Respond to HIV Risk Information? Evidence from a Field Experiment in Kenya
Authors: Dupas Pascaline
Published: January 2011

We use a randomized experiment to test whether and what information changes teenagers' sexual behavior in Kenya. Providing information on the relative risk of HIV infection by partner's age led to a 28 percent decrease in teen pregnancy, an objective proxy for the incidence of unprotected sex. Self-reported sexual behavior data suggests substitution away from older (riskier) partners and toward same-age partners. In contrast, the official abstinence-only HIV curriculum had no impact on teen pregnancy. These results suggest that teenagers are responsive to risk information, but their sexual behavior is more elastic on the intensive than on the extensive margin. (JEL D83, I12, J13, O12)
Minimum Wages and Firm Profitability
Authors: Draca Mirko , Machin Stephen , Van Reenen John
Published: January 2011

We study the impact of minimum wages on firm profitability, exploiting the changes induced by the introduction of a UK national minimum wage in 1999. We use pre-policy information on the distribution of wages to implement a difference-in-differences approach. Minimum wages raise wages, but also significantly reduce profitability (especially in industries with relatively high market power). This is consistent with a simple model where wage gains from minimum wages map directly into profit reductions. There is some suggestive evidence of longer run adjustment to the minimum wage through falls in net entry rates. (JEL J31, J38, L25)
Aftershocks: The Impact of Clinic Violence on Abortion Services
Authors: Jacobson Mireille , Royer Heather
Published: January 2011

Between 1973 and 2003, abortion providers in the United States were the targets of over 300 acts of extreme violence. Using unique data on attacks and on abortions, abortion providers, and births, we examine how anti-abortion violence has affected providers' decisions to perform abortions and women's decisions about whether and where to terminate a pregnancy. We find that clinic violence reduces abortion services in targeted areas. Once travel is taken into account, however, the overall effect of the violence is much smaller. (JEL I11, J13, K42)
Was There Really a Hawthorne Effect at the Hawthorne Plant? An Analysis of the Original Illumination Experiments
Authors: Levitt Steven D , List John A
Published: January 2011

The “Hawthorne effect” draws its name from a landmark set of studies conducted at the Hawthorne plant in the 1920s. The data from the first and most influential of these studies, the “Illumination Experiment,” were never formally analyzed and were thought to have been destroyed. Our research has uncovered these data. Existing descriptions of supposedly remarkable data patterns prove to be entirely fictional. We do find more subtle manifestations of possible Hawthorne effects. We also propose a new means of testing for Hawthorne effects based on excess responsiveness to experimenter-induced variations relative to naturally occurring variation. (JEL C90, J24, J28, M12, M54, N32)
Caste as an Impediment to Trade
Authors: Anderson Siwan
Published: January 2011

We compare outcomes across two types of villages in rural India. Villages vary by which caste is dominant (owns the majority of land): either a low or high caste. The key finding is that income is substantially higher for low-caste households residing in villages dominated by a low caste. This seems to be due to a trade breakdown in irrigation water across caste groups. All else equal, lower caste water buyers have agricultural yields which are 45 percent higher if they reside in a village where water sellers are of the same caste compared to one where they are not. (JEL O12, O13, O17, O18, Q15, R23, Z13)
Transactional Sex as a Response to Risk in Western Kenya
Authors: Robinson Jonathan , Yeh Ethan
Published: January 2011

Though formal and informal sex work has long been identified as crucial for the spread of HIV/AIDS, the nature of the sex-for-money market remains poorly understood. Using a unique panel dataset constructed from 192 self-reported diaries, we find that women who engage in transactional sex substantially increase their supply of risky, better compensated sex to cope with unexpected health shocks, particularly the illness of another household member. These behavioral responses entail significant health risks for these women and their partners, and suggest that these women are unable to cope with risk through other consumption smoothing mechanisms. (JEL I12, J16, O15)
Traffic Congestion and Infant Health: Evidence from E-ZPass
Authors: Currie Janet , Walker Reed
Published: January 2011

We exploit the introduction of electronic toll collection, (E-ZPass), which greatly reduced both traffic congestion and vehicle emissions near highway toll plazas. We show that the introduction of E-ZPass reduced prematurity and low birth weight among mothers within 2 kilometers (km) of a toll plaza by 10.8 percent and 11.8 percent, respectively, relative to mothers 2–10 km from a toll plaza. There were no immediate changes in the characteristics of mothers or in housing prices near toll plazas that could explain these changes. The results are robust to many changes in specification and suggest that traffic congestion contributes significantly to poor health among infants. (JEL I12, J13, Q51, Q53, R41)
Professional Forecasters' Views of Permanent and Transitory Shocks to GDP
Authors: Krane Spencer D
Published: January 2011

This paper examines how the professional forecasters comprising the Blue Chip Economic Consensus view shocks to GDP. I use an unobserved components model of the forecast revisions to identify forecasters' perceptions of permanent and transitory shocks to GDP. The model indicates forecasters: attribute about two-thirds of the variance in current-period revisions to permanent shocks; view the relative importance of permanent shocks similar to the estimates of some simple univariate econometric models; see high-frequency indicators of economic activity as being informative about both permanent and transitory shocks; and react to incoming data differently during periods of economic weakness. (JEL C51, C53, E23, E27, E32, E37)
Exclusive Goods and Formal-Sector Employment
Authors: Foellmi Reto , Zweimüller Josef
Published: January 2011

We explore how the underemployment problem of less-developed economies is related to income inequality. Consumers have nonhomothetic preferences over differentiated products of formal-sector goods and thus inequality affects the composition of aggregate demand via the price-setting behavior of firms. We find that high inequality divides the formal sector into mass producers and exclusive producers (which serve only the rich); high inequality generates an equilibrium where many workers are crowded into the informal economy; and an increase in subsistence productivity raises the unskilled workers' wages and boosts employment due to the higher purchasing power of poorer households. (JEL D31, D43, E24, E26, J24)
Sticky Prices versus Monetary Frictions: An Estimation of Policy Trade-offs
Authors: Aruoba S. Borağan , Schorfheide Frank
Published: January 2011

We develop a two-sector monetary model with a centralized and decentralized market. Activities in the centralized market resemble those in a standard New Keynesian economy with price rigidities. In the decentralized market agents engage in bilateral exchanges for which money is essential. This paper is the first to formally estimate such a model, evaluate its fit based on postwar US data, and assess its money demand properties. Steady-state welfare calculations reveal that the distortions created by the monetary friction may be of similar magnitude as the distortions created by the New Keynesian friction. (JEL C54, E12, E31, E41, E52)
Global Burden of Disease estimates of depression – how reliable is the epidemiological evidence?
Authors: Brhlikova Petra , Pollock Allyson M , Manners Rachel
Published: January 2011

Summary

Objectives

To re-assess the quality of the epidemiological studies used to estimate the global burden of depression 2000, as published in the GBDep study.

Design

Primary and secondary data sources used in the global burden of depression estimate were identified and assigned to country of origin. Each source was assessed with respect to completeness and representativeness for national/regional estimates and against the inclusion criteria used by the scientific team estimating GBDep.

Setting

Not applicable.

Participants

Not applicable.

Main outcome measures

Not applicable.

Results

First, National estimates: The 28 scientific sources cited in the GBDep study related to 40 of the 191 WHO member countries. The EURO region had studies relating to 15 of 52 countries whereas AFRO region had studies for only three of 46 countries. Only six of the 40 countries had data drawn from a nationally representative population: the three AFRO country studies were based on a single village or town and, likewise, SEARO region had no nationally representative data; second, GBDep criteria: GBDep inclusion criteria required study sample size of more than 1000 people; 19 (45%) of the 42 studies did not meet this criterion. Sixteen (44%) of 36 studies did not meet the requirement that studies show a clear sample frame and method. GBD estimates rely on estimates of incidence; only two of the 42 country studies provided incidence data (Canada and Norway), the remaining 34 studies were prevalence studies. Duration of depression is based on three studies conducted in the USA and Holland.

Conclusions

Most studies exhibit significant shortcomings and limitations with respect to study design and analysis and compliance with GBDep inclusion criteria. Poor quality data limit the interpretation and validity of global burden of depression estimates. The uncritical application of these estimates to international healthcare policy-making could divert scarce resources from other public healthcare priorities.
How can we reduce the number of coroner autopsies? Lessons from Scotland and the Dundee initiative
Authors: Pounder Derrick , Jones Matthew , Peschel Heiko
Published: January 2011

Summary

Currently the medicolegal dissection rate for England and Wales is 22% (110,000 coronial autopsies for 500,000 deaths per annum), yet there is a general lack of evidence about the utility of and justification for such a high level of activity, which is between double and triple the rate in other jurisdictions. The government is currently consulting on how to reduce the numbers, and the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 is permissive of external examinations as an alternative to dissections. We describe the philosophy and practice of the Scottish system of postmortem external examinations, and the 20-year experience of a local initiative to maximize use of such external examinations. Currently our regional medicolegal dissection rate is 6%, which if applied to England and Wales would reduce the number of dissections from 110,000 to 30,000 per annum, with all of the social, resource and management implications. While the autopsy is an important tool in modern death investigation, an almost automatic recourse to it is inappropriate. In our view external examinations are not only cost-effective but also a necessary element in any death investigative system which wishes to strike an appropriate balance between intrusion by the state and the rights of the bereaved.
Calcium Supplements: Do They Increase Cardiovascular Risk?
Authors: Howard Patricia A.
Published: January 2011

A daily calcium intake of 1200 mg is routinely recommended especially for postmenopausal women to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and related fractures. Although there are numerous dietary sources of calcium, many women rely in large part on supplementation. A recently published meta-analysis suggesting that calcium supplements may increase the risk of myocardial infarction was widely reported in the media generating considerable alarm and many questions. This article will review our current understanding of this issue and provide guidance on counseling patients.
Paclitaxel and Bevacizumab Regimen for Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Porter Amy M. , Waddell J. Aubrey , Solimando Dominic A.
Published: January 2011

The complexity of cancer chemotherapy requires pharmacists be familiar with the complicated regimens and highly toxic agents used. This column reviews various issues related to preparation, dispensing, and administration of antineoplastic therapy, and the agents, both commercially available and investigational, used to treat malignant diseases.
Effects of Immune-Enhancing Enteral Nutrition on Mortality and Oxygenation in Acute Lung Injury and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dee Brian M. , Bruno Jeffrey J. , Lal Lincy S. , Canada Todd W.
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The contribution of the immune system to the pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has led to a recent interest in the use of immune-enhancing enteral nutrition as a treatment modality. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to determine the effectiveness of immune-enhancing enteral nutrition as compared with standard enteral nutrition, with respect to mortality and change in oxygenation status, in patients with acute lung injury (ALI)/ARDS.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted of randomized controlled trials comparing immune-enhancing enteral nutrition with standard enteral nutrition in adult intensive care unit (ICU) patients with ALI/ARDS. Data were combined in a meta-analysis with STATA SE version 9.2 (StataCorp) using a random effects model.

Results

Three studies fulfilled inclusion criteria, totaling 411 patients. These studies demonstrated a statistically significant relative risk (RR) for in-hospital mortality, favoring patients who received immune-enhancing enteral nutrition (RR, 0.58; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.42-0.79). With respect to change in oxygenation status, a statistically significant standardized mean difference (SMD) was observed at day 4 (SMD, 1.97; 95% CI, 0.27-3.67), favoring the immune-enhancing enteral nutrition group. At study day 7, the SMD did not reach statistical significance (SMD, 1.71; 95% CI, −0.13 to 3.56).

Conclusions

Oxygenation and mortality benefits of immune-enhancing enteral nutrition in adult ICU patients with ALI/ARDS have been shown in individual trials and meta-analyses. Subsequent clinical trials and meta-analyses are required to fully elucidate the role of immune-enhancing enteral nutrition in this patient population.
Pegloticase
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri L. , Baker Danial E.
Published: January 2011

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive 5 to 6 well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committees. Subscribers also receive monthly 1-page summary monographs on agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation/medication use evaluation (DUE/MUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are sent in print and are also available on-line. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of a facility. Subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board, The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X.). All topics pertinent to clinical and hospital pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. For more information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The January 2011 monograph topics are on dabigatran etexilate mesylate, ceftaroline fosamil, lurasidone hydrochloride tablets, acetaminophen intravenous, and dextromethorphan/quinidine sulfate. The DUE/MUE is on ceftaroline fosamil.
New Drugs Approved by the FDA; New Dosage Forms and Indications Approved by the FDA; Agents Pending FDA Approval; New Drug/Biologics License Applications Filed by Manufacturer; Supplemental Applications Filed by Manufacturer; Significant Labeling Changes or “Dear Health Professional” Letters Related to Safety
Authors: Baker Danial E.
Published: January 2011

This monthly feature will help readers keep current on new drugs, new indications, dosage forms, and safety-related changes in labeling or use. Efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of this information; however, if there are any questions, please let me know at bakerdan@wsu.edu .
Is Evernote your New Peripheral Brain? We Think it should be
Authors: Fox Brent I. , Felkey Bill G.
Published: January 2011

We are always looking for tools that increase our productivity and make our lives easier. We truly love the wealth of information on the Internet, but like you, we sometimes find it a bit daunting to keep up with it all. This month, we explore a powerful productivity tool that has made our use of both on-line and off-line information much easier. We explore the most common features of this tool.
Developing Patient-Centered Services, Part 1: A Primer on Pharmacy Practice Models
Authors: Hertig John B. , Jenkins Matthew , Mark Scott M. , Weber Robert J.
Published: January 2011

The Director's Forum series is edited by Robert Weber and Scott Mark and is designed to guide pharmacy leaders in establishing patient-centered services in hospitals and health systems. This month's article is the first of a 2-part series to help pharmacy directors in developing a pharmacy practice model that is patient centered. This article provides the pharmacy director with a primer on the types, development, and implementation characteristics of pharmacy practice models.
Recent Publications on Medications and Pharmacy
Authors: Russett Flint
Published: January 2011

Hospital Pharmacy presents this feature to keep pharmacists abreast of new publications in the medical/pharmacy literature. Articles of interest regarding a broad scope of topics are abstracted monthly.
Weathering the Storm: Managing the Drug Shortage Crisis; Pharmacist Supervision is Critical for Proper Preparation of Clinimix Multichamber Bags
Authors: Cohen Michael R. , Smetzer Judy L.
Published: January 2011

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them at your inservice training programs.

Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) Medication Errors Reporting Program. Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers' names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below.

Errors, close calls, or hazardous conditions may be reported directly to ISMP through the ISMP Web site ( www.ismp.org ), by calling 800-FAIL-SAFE, or via e-mail at ismpinfo@ismp.org . ISMP guarantees the confidentiality and security of the information received and respects reporters' wishes as to the level of detail included in publications.
Genetics of Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Steck Andrea K , Rewers Marian J
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND

Type 1 diabetes, a multifactorial disease with a strong genetic component, is caused by the autoimmune destruction of pancreatic β cells. The major susceptibility locus maps to the HLA class II genes at 6p21, although more than 40 non-HLA susceptibility gene markers have been confirmed.

CONTENT

Although HLA class II alleles account for up to 30%–50% of genetic type 1 diabetes risk, multiple non-MHC loci contribute to disease risk with smaller effects. These include the insulin, PTPN22, CTLA4, IL2RA, IFIH1, and other recently discovered loci. Genomewide association studies performed with high-density single-nucleotide–polymorphism genotyping platforms have provided evidence for a number of novel loci, although fine mapping and characterization of these new regions remain to be performed.

Children born with the high-risk genotype HLADR3/4-DQ8 comprise almost 50% of children who develop antiislet autoimmunity by the age of 5 years. Genetic risk for type 1 diabetes can be further stratified by selection of children with susceptible genotypes at other diabetes genes, by selection of children with a multiple family history of diabetes, and/or by selection of relatives that are HLA identical to the proband.

Children with the HLA-risk genotypes DR3/4-DQ8 or DR4/DR4 who have a family history of type 1 diabetes have more than a 1 in 5 risk for developing islet autoantibodies during childhood, and children with the same HLA-risk genotype but no family history have approximately a 1 in 20 risk. Determining extreme genetic risk is a prerequisite for the implementation of primary prevention trials, which are now underway for relatives of individuals with type 1 diabetes.
Inhalational Lung Injury Associated With Humidifier “White Dust”
Authors: Daftary Ameet S. , Deterding Robin R.
Published: January 2011

Humidifiers are commonly used in the community to relieve symptoms associated with acute respiratory infections in young children; however, clear benefits of these devices have not been documented. The Environmental Protection Agency has not found any adverse health effects related to humidifier use. We report here the case of a young infant with significant accidental inhalational lung injury related to dispersal of mineral dust from an ultrasonic home-use humidifier. The clinical consequences included prolonged hypoxemia, tachypnea, and failure to thrive. Radiography revealed pneumonitis, and pulmonary-function testing showed a nonreversible mild obstructive ventilatory defect. Because of persistent symptoms, evolution of failure to thrive, and nonresponse to inhaled and short courses of systemic glucocorticoids, an aggressive management approach was successfully pursued with high-dose pulse steroid therapy, which could be a potential therapeutic approach for similar patients. In addition, this case raises important questions about the safety of exposing infants and young children to humidifiers and emphasizes the need for further study.
An unusual Late Triassic nuculid bivalve with divaricate shell ornamentation, and the evolutionary history of oblique ribs in Triassic bivalves
Authors: Hautmann Michael , Aghababalou Babak , Krystyn Leo
Published: January 2011

The new nuculid bivalveTrigonucula(Gonionucula)aciloidesnew subgenus and species from the upper Triassic Nayband Formation of Central Iran is described.Gonionuculadiffers fromTrigonuculas.s. by the presence of oblique ribs, which either deviate from a concentric pattern at the anterior shell part, or, as in the newly described type species, consist of a complex pattern of chevron-like ribs on the central part of the flank, plus an additional set of opisthocline to more or less acline ribs on posterior part of the flank. The oblique ribs ofGonionuculaprobably aided energy-efficient burrowing, which was advantageous in competing for food resources with less efficiently burrowing detritus feeders. The number of burrowing bivalve species with oblique ribs generally rose towards the end of the Triassic, which probably reflects increasing competition at a time when most niches were re-occupied after the end-Permian mass extinction event. The fact that oblique ribs were rare in Paleozoic bivalves suggests that the level of competition was higher in post-Paleozoic biota, which is in accordance with a general increase in metabolic rates, predation pressure, and ecospace occupation in the course of the Mesozoic.
Complex noncalcified macroalgae from the Silurian of Cornwallis Island, Arctic Canada
Authors: Loduca Steven T. , Melchin Michael J. , Verbruggen Heroen
Published: January 2011

Thin beds of silty limestone within a Ludlovian (Ludfordian) section of the Cape Phillips Formation on Cornwallis Island, Arctic Canada, contain numerous specimens of noncalcified macroalgae in association with dendroid and graptoloid graptolites, brachiopods, and trilobites. The algal material, preserved as carbonaceous compressions, represents three new taxa, each characterized by a central axis surrounded by laterals. Laterals ofEocladus xiaoin. gen. n. sp. are thin and branch to the fifth order whereas those ofChaetocladus captitatusn. sp. are undivided and form a distinctive capitulum. Thalli ofPalaeocymopolia nunavutensisn. gen. n. sp. have a branched, serial-segmented form and a corticated structure. On the basis of thallus architecture, all three taxa are assigned to the extant green algal order Dasycladales. Parallels exist between this macroalgal assemblage and a modern macroalgal association in Florida Bay.
The largest known bear,Arctotherium angustidens, from the early Pleistocene Pampean region of Argentina: with a discussion of size and diet trends in bears
Authors: Soibelzon Leopoldo H. , Schubert Blaine W.
Published: January 2011

The South American giant short-faced bear(Arctotherium angustidensGervais and Ameghino, 1880) is one of five describedArctotheriumspecies endemic to South America and it is known for being the earliest, largest, and most carnivorous member of the genus. Here we report an extraordinarily largeA. angustidensindividual exhumed from Ensenadan sediments (early to middle Pleistocene) at Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. Based on overall size, degree of epiphyseal fusion, and pathologies, this bear was an old-aged male that sustained serious injuries during life. Body mass of the bear is estimated and compared to other ursid species based on a series of allometric equations. To our knowledge, this specimen now represents the largest bear ever recorded. In light of this discovery, we discuss the evolution of body size inArctotherium(from large-to-small) and compare this to bears that exhibited different evolutionary trajectories. We suggest that the larger size and more carnivorous nature ofA. angustidens, compared to later members of the genus, may reflect the relative lack of other large carnivores and abundance of herbivores in South America just after the Great American Biotic Interchange.
Evidence for segment polarity during regeneration in the Devonian asteropygine trilobiteGreenops widderensis
Authors: McNamara Kenneth J. , Tuura Megan E.
Published: January 2011

A complete molted exoskeleton of the asteropygine phacopid trilobiteGreenops widderensisLieberman and Kloc, 1997 from the Middle Devonian (Givetian) Widder Formation in southwestern Ontario, Canada that has suffered predatory trauma provides insights into the sequence of regeneration of segments. The molt configuration is such that it is possible to interpret the molting technique used by the trilobite. Predatory trauma affected four areas of the exoskeleton. The pygidium shows loss of the spinose margin on one side and damage to a single spine on the other; one genal spine has been broken and partially regrown; and the posterior of the glabella has been removed. It is thought that the first three traumas occurred during life, as these areas affected show signs of exoskeletal regeneration. The fourth trauma probably occurred to the exuvium. Analysis of the degree of regeneration of the pygidial pleurae indicates that there was an anteroposterior polarity to the regeneration. Other examples in the literature suggest that this regeneration polarity pattern may have been widespread in trilobites. It is suggested that, as in modern arthropods and annelids, this sequential regeneration was under the control of segmentation polarity genes.
Late Santonian megaspore floras from the Gulf Coastal Plain (Georgia, USA)
Authors: Lupia Richard
Published: January 2011

Fossil megaspore floras from the Late Cretaceous of North America have been studied extensively, but primarily from the Western Interior Basin. Two new megaspore floras are described from eastern North America along the Gulf Coastal Plain. Cumulatively, 10 genera and 16 species of megaspores are recognized from Allon, Georgia and along Upatoi Creek, Georgia (both late Santonian in age, ~84 Ma). Megaspores identified have affinities to both heterosporous lycopsids, e.g.,Erlansonisporites, Minerisporites, andPaxillitriletes, and to heterosporous ferns, e.g.,Ariadnaesporites, andMolaspora.Lycopsid megaspores are more diverse than fern megaspores in the Allon and the Upatoi Creek floras. Two new species—Erlansonisporites confundusn. sp. andErlansonisporites potensn. sp.—are proposed.
Synziphosurines (Xiphosura: Chelicerata) from the Silurian of Iowa
Authors: Moore Rachel A. , Briggs Derek E. G. , Braddy Simon J. , Shultz Jeffrey W.
Published: January 2011

A new genus and species of synziphosurine (Chelicerata) is described from the Silurian (Wenlock) Scotch Grove Formation Konservat-Lagerstätte in Clinton County, Iowa.Camanchia grovensisn. gen. n. sp. is characterized by a sub-triangular carapace, ten opisthosomal segments divided into a preabdomen of seven and a postabdomen of three, and a tuberculate ornament on the carapace and pleural margins. A single new specimen from the same location is assigned toVenustulus waukeshaensis, originally described from the Late Llandovery Waukesha Konservat-Lagerstätte of Wisconsin. A comparison of the musculature ofC. grovensiswith that of livingLimulus polyphemusand the JurassicMesolimulus walchifrom Nusplingen, Germany shows that it is much simpler, consistent with the status of synziphosurines as stem xiphosurids.
Hyolithellusin life position from the Lower Cambrian of North Greenland
Authors: Skovsted Christian B. , Peel John S.
Published: January 2011

Tubular specimens belonging toHyolithellusfrom silty dolostones of the basal Aftenstjernesø Formation of North Greenland may represent the first occurrence of this widespread Cambrian fossil in life position. A high proportion of preserved specimens are oriented normal to bedding with the tapering end of the tube down. Occasional undulations in the growth of the tubes indicate that the animal actively adjusted its growth to achieve a vertical orientation in relation to the sediment surface. Increasing thickness of the tube wall towards the tapering end shifted the center of mass downwards and resulted in greater stability in the sediment. The tube remained open at both ends throughout ontogeny; it was most likely secreted by an annelid-grade animal which pumped water into the sediment through the tube.Hyolithellusand similar tubular fossils from the Lower Cambrian probably represent stem group annelids.
First fossil orthoptera from the Jurassic of North America
Authors: Smith Dena M. , Gorman Mark A. , Pardo Jason D. , Small Bryan J.
Published: January 2011

A new species of Orthoptera,Parapleurites morrisonensis, is described from the upper Jurassic Morrison Formation of Colorado, USA. This is the first insect described from the Morrison Formation and the first orthopteran described from the Jurassic of North America. No other members of the family Locustopsidae have been described in North America previously, and the other species ofParapleuritesare only known from Siberia. The lack of Jurassic Orthoptera in North America is likely due to a combination of taphonomic variables and collector bias. The discovery ofParapleurites morrisonensisand the potential for finding other Jurassic Orthoptera are important to understanding the evolution of this diverse and widely distributed group.
Earliest Arenig radiolarians from the Cow Head Group, Western Newfoundland
Authors: Won Mun-Zu , Iams William J.
Published: January 2011

Radiolarians have been recovered from lowermost Arenigian rocks of the Cow Head Group in Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland. Two new faunal assemblages include eight families, 13 genera, and 25 species. Among these, the family Neoaspiculumidae, the genusNeoaspiculum, and 11 species,Beothuka aitchisoni, B. grosmornensis, B. stougei, B.?stellata, Neoaspiculum cancellium, N. headense, N. transformum, N. laxum, N.?amplum, Proventocitum cylindricum, andP. piriforme, are new.

This study elucidates the reason for the significant difference in species composition between pre-Arenigian and Arenigian radiolarian faunas. This difference does not appear to be due to mass extinction, but rather to phylogenetic evolution: most radiolarian families that flourished during pre-Arenig time were gradually but significantly reduced by the earliest Arenig. Characteristic features of the earliest Arenig assemblages that distinguish them from their Tremadocian predecessors are 1) the development of a distinctive skeletal constructional element referred to as “bandage” structure that evolved through modification of a mesh of thin bars and 2) the appearance of multiple concentric shells including a proloculus (or a microsphere), which developed from a primitive three-dimensionally interwoven meshwork or spongy shell wall. These forms, represented by beothukids, antygoporids, and inaniguttids, are rare but they appear to originate in the earliest Arenig. Transitional characteristics among those forms are developed in the Neoaspiculumidae, which flourished during the earliest Arenig.

The precise biostratigraphic age of one of the assemblages was determined with the recovery of the index condontPrioniodus adamiStouge and Bagnoli, 1988 from strata belonging to theTetragraptus approximatusGraptolite Zone, which is at the base of the Arenigian.