bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Substantia nigra hyperechogenicity with LRRK2 G2019S mutations
Authors: Brüggemann Norbert , Hagenah Johann , Stanley Kaili , Klein Christine , Wang Cuiling , Raymond Deborah , Ozelius Laurie , Bressman Susan , Saunders‐Pullman Rachel
Published: February 2011

Background:

Transcranial sonography (TCS) area of hyperechogenicity in the substantia nigra (aSN) is increased in idiopathic and genetic Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods:

We performed TCS in 34 LRRK2 G2019S mutation carriers manifesting PD, 24 non‐manifesting mutation carriers, and 28 idiopathic PD patients and compared them with 40 healthy controls (total, n = 126).

Results:

Compared with the controls (mean 0.15 cm2), the aSN values in all other groups were increased. The mean aSN was 0.23 cm2 in nonmanifesting mutation carriers (P = .015), 0.34 cm2 in idiopathic PD patients (P < .0001), 0.32 cm2 in LRRK2‐associated PD patients (P < .0001), and 0.33 cm2 in the overall PD group (P < .0001). LRRK2‐associated PD patients had a higher aSN than did nonmanifesting carriers (P = .011), but there was no significant difference in aSN between patients with idiopathic and LRRK2‐associated PD (P = .439).

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that SN pathoanatomical alterations may not be substantially different between idiopathic and LRRK2‐associated PD. The findings in the nonmanifesting mutation carriers suggest the presence of intermediate nigrostriatal pathology consistent with the age‐dependent reduced penetrance of this mutation. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Dynamic flaps in HIV‐1 protease adopt unique ordering at different stages in the catalytic cycle
Authors: Karthik Suresh , Senapati Sanjib
Published: February 2011

The flexibility of HIV‐1 protease flaps is known to be essential for the enzymatic activity. Here we attempt to capture a multitude of conformations of the free and substrate‐bound HIV‐1 protease that differ drastically in their flap arrangements. The substrate binding process suggests the opening of active site gate in conjunction with a reversal of flap tip ordering, from the native semiopen state. The reversed‐flap, open‐gated enzyme readily transforms to a closed conformation after proper placement of the substrate into the binding cleft. After substrate processing, the closed state protease which possessed opposite flap ordering relative to the semiopen state, encounters another flap reversal via a second open conformation that facilitates the evolution of native semiopen state of correct flap ordering. The complicated transitional pathway, comprising of many high and low energy states, is explored by combining standard and activated molecular dynamics (MD) simulation techniques. The study not only complements the existing findings from X‐ray, NMR, EPR, and MD studies but also provides a wealth of detailed information that could help the structure‐based drug design process. Proteins 2011; © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Integrating the intrinsic conformational preferences of noncoded α‐amino acids modified at the peptide bond into the noncoded amino acids database
Authors: Revilla‐López Guillem , Rodríguez‐Ropero Francisco , Curcó David , Torras Juan , Isabel Calaza M. , Zanuy David , Jiménez Ana I. , Cativiela Carlos , Nussinov Ruth , Alemán Carlos
Published: February 2011

Recently, we reported a database (Noncoded Amino acids Database; http://recerca.upc.edu/imem/index.htm) that was built to compile information about the intrinsic conformational preferences of nonproteinogenic residues determined by quantum mechanical calculations, as well as bibliographic information about their synthesis, physical and spectroscopic characterization, the experimentally established conformational propensities, and applications (Revilla‐López et al., J Phys Chem B 2010;114:7413–7422). The database initially contained the information available for α‐tetrasubstituted α‐amino acids. In this work, we extend NCAD to three families of compounds, which can be used to engineer peptides and proteins incorporating modifications at the –NHCO– peptide bond. Such families are: N‐substituted α‐amino acids, thio‐α‐amino acids, and diamines and diacids used to build retropeptides. The conformational preferences of these compounds have been analyzed and described based on the information captured in the database. In addition, we provide an example of the utility of the database and of the compounds it compiles in protein and peptide engineering. Specifically, the symmetry of a sequence engineered to stabilize the 310‐helix with respect to the α‐helix has been broken without perturbing significantly the secondary structure through targeted replacements using the information contained in the database. Proteins 2011; © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Swapping the domains of exoribonucleases RNase II and RNase R: Conferring upon RNase II the ability to degrade ds RNA
Authors: Matos Rute Gonçalves , Barbas Ana , Gómez‐Puertas Paulino , Arraiano Cecília Maria
Published: February 2011

RNase II and RNase R are the two E. coli exoribonucleases that belong to the RNase II super family of enzymes. They degrade RNA hydrolytically in the 3′ to 5′ direction in a processive and sequence independent manner. However, while RNase R is capable of degrading structured RNAs, the RNase II activity is impaired by dsRNAs. The final end‐product of these two enzymes is also different, being 4 nt for RNase II and 2 nt for RNase R. RNase II and RNase R share structural properties, including 60% of amino acid sequence similarity and have a similar modular domain organization: two N‐terminal cold shock domains (CSD1 and CSD2), one central RNB catalytic domain, and one C‐terminal S1 domain. We have constructed hybrid proteins by swapping the domains between RNase II and RNase R to determine which are the responsible for the differences observed between RNase R and RNase II. The results obtained show that the S1 and RNB domains from RNase R in an RNase II context allow the degradation of double‐stranded substrates and the appearance of the 2 nt long end‐product. Moreover, the degradation of structured RNAs becomes tail‐independent when the RNB domain from RNase R is no longer associated with the RNA binding domains (CSD and S1) of the genuine protein. Finally, we show that the RNase R C‐terminal Lysine‐rich region is involved in the degradation of double‐stranded substrates in an RNase II context, probably by unwinding the substrate before it enters into the catalytic cavity. Proteins 2011; © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cdk6-Dependent Regulation of G1 Length Controls Adult Neurogenesis
Authors: Beukelaers Pierre , Vandenbosch Renaud , Caron Nicolas , Nguyen Laurent , Belachew Shibeshih , Moonen Gustave , Kiyokawa Hiroaki , Barbacid Mariano , Santamaria David , Malgrange Brigitte
Published: February 2011

The presence of neurogenic precursors in the adult mammalian brain is now widely accepted, but the mechanisms coupling their proliferation with the onset of neuronal differentiation remain unknown. Here, we unravel the major contribution of the G1 regulator cyclin-dependent kinase 6 (Cdk6) to adult neurogenesis. We found that Cdk6 was essential for cell proliferation within the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus and the subventricular zone of the lateral ventricles. Specifically, Cdk6 deficiency prevents the expansion of neuronally committed precursors by lengthening G1 phase duration, reducing concomitantly the production of newborn neurons. Altogether, our data support G1 length as an essential regulator of the switch between proliferation and neuronal differentiation in the adult brain and Cdk6 as one intrinsic key molecular regulator of this process.
Concise Review: Stem Cells for the Treatment of Cerebellar-Related Disorders
Authors: Erceg Slaven , Moreno-Manzano Victoria , Garita-Hernandez Marcela , Stojkovic Miodrag , Bhattacharya Shomi S.
Published: February 2011

Embryonic neural transplants have become clinically relevant over the past 25 years for their possible application in the treatment of cerebellum-related neurodegenerative diseases. While highlighting the important role that fetal neural progenitors have in meeting these challenges, we define rationales for all types of cell therapy involving adult stem cells as well as human embryonic stem cells (hESC) and human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. The recent advances in the field of hESC and iPS cells, including their capacity for differentiation toward regional specific neural lineages, could open a new era of transplantation in cell-based therapy for cerebellar ataxias.
Evaluation of Current Devices in Single‐Incision Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery: A Preliminary Experience in 32 Consecutive Cases
Authors: Chew Min‐Hoe , Wong Mark Te‐Ching , Lim Bernard Yon‐Kuei , Ng Kheng‐Hong , Eu Kong‐Weng
Published: February 2011

Background

Single‐incision laparoscopic colorectal surgery (SILS) suggests a promising alternative to conventional laparoscopic surgery. In this report we describe our initial experience with SILS for both right hemicolectomies and anterior resections.

Methods

Between June 2009 and May 2010, SILS was performed for 32 consecutive cases with benign and malignant pathology. Demographic data, intraoperative parameters, postoperative data, and pathologic data were assessed.

Results

Twenty‐one SILS right hemicolectomies, ten ARs, and one abdominal perineal resection (APR) were performed. For SILS right hemicolectomies, one case required full “conversion” to a laparoscopic procedure. The median operating time was 85 min (range 45–150 min) and the median wound length was 5.0 cm (range 3.0–10.0 cm). Median number of lymph nodes extracted in malignant cases was 17(range 10–30) and the overall median length of stay was 6 days (range 5–11). For left‐sided lesions, ten cases of ARs (7 high ARs, 2 low ARs, 1 ultralow AR) and one APR were performed. Three cases were completed successfully via the SILS procedure, four cases required one additional port, and four cases required full “conversion” to a laparoscopic procedure. The median operating time was 120 min (range 65–235 min) and the median wound length was 5.0 cm (range 3.0–7.0 cm). Overall median length of stay was also 6 days (range 5–21). There was one case of anastomotic leak and one case of postoperative bleeding.

Conclusion

In our experience, SILS for right hemicolectomies is safe and effective with reproducible oncologic results. SILS AR, however, requires greater modifications in current devices and techniques. SILS AR can be performed for both malignant and benign diseases but additional ports may be necessary for the safe completion of the procedure.
Controlled Tissue Expansion in the Initial Management of the Short Bowel State
Authors: Murphy F. , Khalil B. A. , Gozzini S. , King B. , Bianchi A. , Morabito A.
Published: February 2011

The treatment of short gut syndrome has evolved dramatically during the past decade. The combination of surgical techniques and medical management in the context of a multidisciplinary approach has improved the outcomes of these children. The authors describe in detail their technique of controlled tissue expansion of the bowel before lengthening procedures. Monitoring of the child and troubleshooting actions during the controlled tissue expansion program also are discussed.
The Development of Flow‐through Bio‐Catalyst Microreactors from Silica Micro Structured Fibers for Lipid Transformations
Authors: Tuan Anuar Sabiqah , Villegas Carla , Mugo Samuel M. , Curtis Jonathan M.
Published: February 2011

This study demonstrates the utility of a flow‐through enzyme immobilized silica microreactor for lipid transformations. A silica micro structured fiber (MSF) consisting of 168 channels of internal diameter 4–5 μm provided a large surface area for the covalent immobilization of Candida antartica lipase. The specific activity of the immobilized lipase was determined by hydrolysis of p‐nitrophenyl butyrate and calculated to be 0.81 U/mg. The catalytic performance of the lipase microreactor was demonstrated by the efficient ethanolysis of canola oil. The parameters affecting the performance of the MSF microreactor, including temperature and reaction flow rate, were investigated. Characterization of the lipid products exiting the microreactor was performed by non‐aqueous reversed‐phased liquid chromatography (NARP‐LC) with evaporative light scattering detector (ELSD) and by comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography (GC × GC). Under optimized conditions of 1 μL/min flow rate of 5 mg/mL trioleoylglycerol (TO) in ethanol and 50 °C reaction temperature, 2‐monooleoylglycerol was the main product at >90% reaction yield. The regioselectivity of the Candida antartica lipase immobilized MSF microreactor in the presence of ethanol was found to be comparable to that obtained under conventional conditions. The ability of these reusable flow‐through microreactors to regioselectively form monoacylglycerides in high yield from triacylglycerides demonstrate their potential use in small‐scale lipid transformations or analytical lipids profiling.
The Acyl CoenzymeA:Monoacylglycerol Acyltransferase 3 (MGAT3) Gene is a Pseudogene in Mice but Encodes a Functional Enzyme in Rats
Authors: Yue Yong Gang , Chen Yan Qun , Zhang Youyan , Wang He , Qian Yue‐Wei , Arnold Jeffrey S. , Calley John N. , Li Shuyu D. , Perry William L. , Zhang Hong Y. , Konrad Robert J. , Cao Guoqing
Published: February 2011

Triglyceride (TAG) absorption involves its initial hydrolysis to fatty acids and monoacylglycerol (MAG), which are resynthesized back to diacylglycerol (DAG) and TAG within enterocytes. The resynthesis of DAG is facilitated by fatty acyl‐CoA dependent monoacylglycerol acyltransferases (MGATs). Three MGAT enzymes have been isolated in humans and the expression of MGAT2 and MGAT3 in the intestines suggests their functional role in the TAG absorption. In this paper, we report that the Mogat3 gene appears to be a pseudogene in mice while it is a functional gene in rats. Examination of the mouse genomic Mogat3 sequence revealed multiple changes that would result in a translational stop codon or frameshifts. The rat Mogat3 gene, however, is predicted to encode a functional enzyme of 362 amino acids. Expression of rat MGAT3 in human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) cells led to the formation of a 36‐kDa protein that displayed significant MGAT but not DGAT activity. Tissue expression analysis of rat MGAT3 by real‐time PCR analysis indicated that rat MGAT3 has a high level of expression in intestines and pancreas. Our results thus provide the molecular basis to understand the relative functional role of MGAT2 and MGAT3 and also for future exploration of MGAT3 function in animal models.
Separation of FFA from Partially Hydrogenated Soybean Oil Hydrolysate by Means of Membrane Processing
Authors: Jala Ram Chandra Reddy , Guo Zheng , Xu Xuebing
Published: February 2011

Different types of commercial porous and non‐porous polymeric membranes have been investigated for their capabilities to separate free fatty acids (FFA) from hydrolysate of partially hydrogenated soybean oil. A regenerated cellulose (RC, PLAC) membrane exhibited the most prominent difference in rejection between FFA and glycerides and the highest flux (27 kg h−1 m−2) in hydrolysate ethanol solution. The results also showed that, besides the pore size of membrane, the membrane flux depended largely on the property matching between membrane and solvent, as observed (40 kg h−1 m−2) flux was achieved with methanol but no flux detected with hexane for PLAC. The polyvinyl alcohol (PVA, NTR‐729 HF) and Polyamide (PA, NTR‐759HR) membranes gave the second and third highest flux (10.1 and 5.7 kg h−1 m−2, respectively), where solute rejections for NTR‐759HR were 95.9% for triacylglycerols (TG), 83.3% for diacylglycerols (DG); 87.7% for monoacylglycerols (MG) and 22.9% for FFA, respectively. A discontinuous membrane filtration using an RC membrane with ethanol changed the composition of hydrolysate from 32.2:34.2:7.9:25.7 TG/DG/MG/FFA to 47.8:36.0:10.2:6.0. The results from this work proved that FFA can be efficiently separated from a hydrolysis mixture of oil using an RC membrane in methanol and ethanol.
CT imaging of blunt chest trauma
Authors: Oikonomou Anastasia , Prassopoulos Panos
Published: February 2011

Background

Thoracic injury overall is the third most common cause of trauma following injury to the head and extremities. Thoracic trauma has a high morbidity and mortality, accounting for approximately 25% of trauma-related deaths, second only to head trauma. More than 70% of cases of blunt thoracic trauma are due to motor vehicle collisions, with the remainder caused by falls or blows from blunt objects.

Methods

The mechanisms of injury, spectrum of abnormalities and radiological findings encountered in blunt thoracic trauma are categorised into injuries of the pleural space (pneumothorax, hemothorax), the lungs (pulmonary contusion, laceration and herniation), the airways (tracheobronchial lacerations, Macklin effect), the oesophagus, the heart, the aorta, the diaphragm and the chest wall (rib, scapular, sternal fractures and sternoclavicular dislocations). The possible coexistence of multiple types of injury in a single patient is stressed, and therefore systematic exclusion after thorough investigation of all types of injury is warranted.

Results

The superiority of CT over chest radiography in diagnosing chest trauma is well documented. Moreover, with the advent of MDCT the imaging time for trauma patients has been significantly reduced to several seconds, allowing more time for appropriate post-diagnosis care.

Conclusion

High-quality multiplanar and volumetric reformatted CT images greatly improve the detection of injuries and enhance the understanding of mechanisms of trauma-related abnormalities.
Paternal Incarceration and Support for Children in Fragile Families
Authors: Geller Amanda , Garfinkel Irwin , Western Bruce
Published: February 2011

High U.S. incarceration rates have motivated recent research on the negative effects of imprisonment on later employment, earnings, and family relationships. Because most men in jail and prison are fathers, a large number of children may be placed at considerable risk by policies of incarceration. This article examines one dimension of the economic risk faced by children of incarcerated fathers: the reduction in the financial support that they receive. We use a population-based sample of urban children to examine the effects of incarceration on this support. Both cross-sectional and longitudinal regressions indicate that formerly incarcerated men are less likely to contribute to their families, and those who do contribute provide significantly less. The negative effects of incarceration on fathers’ financial support are due not only to the low earnings of formerly incarcerated men but also to their increased likelihood to live apart from their children. Men contribute far less through child support (formal or informal) than they do when they share their earnings within their household, suggesting that the destabilizing effects of incarceration on family relationships place children at significant economic disadvantage.
A positron emission tomography study of wind‐up pain in chronic postherniotomy pain
Authors: Kupersl Ron , Lonsdalel Markus Nowak , Aasvangl Eske , Kehletl Henrik
Published: February 2011

Many neuropathic pain conditions are characterized by abnormal responses to noxious or innocuous mechanical stimulation, including wind‐up pain. Whereas previous brain imaging studies have explored the cerebral correlates of hyperalgesia and allodynia, no studies are available on mechanical‐induced wind‐up pain in neuropathic pain patients. We therefore used positron emission tomography (PET) to investigate the cerebral response pattern of mechanical wind‐up pain in a homogenous group of 10 neuropathic pain patients with long‐standing postherniotomy pain in the groin area. Patients were scanned in the following conditions: (1) rest; (2) wind‐up pain, induced by 2 Hz von Frey stimulation in the painful area; (3) non‐painful 2 Hz von Frey stimulation in the homologous contralateral area and (4) tonic pressure pain in the homologous contralateral area. A direct comparison between wind‐up pain and non‐painful von Frey stimulation revealed that the former more strongly activated contralateral secondary somatosensory cortex, insula, anterior cingulate cortex, right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, thalamus and cerebellum. In addition, wind‐up pain also activated the sublenticular extended amygdala (SLEA) and the brain stem. A direct comparison between wind‐up pain and pressure pain revealed that both activated a largely overlapping network. Since no de novo brain areas were activated by wind‐up pain, our data suggest that the processes specific to wind‐up pain do not occur at the cerebral level.
The burden of symptoms predicts early retirement: A twin cohort study on fibromyalgia‐associated symptoms
Authors: Markkulal Ritva , Kalsol Eija , Huunan‐Seppäläl Antti , Koskenvuol Markku , Koskenvuol Karoliina , Leino‐Arjasl Päivi , Kapriol Jaakko
Published: February 2011

Objective: To assess whether symptoms of fibromyalgia (FM) predict disability retirement or mortality.

Methods: All Finnish Twin Cohort members and diagnosed FM‐patients who had answered the same health questionnaire in 1990–1992 were studied. A sample of 10,608 working aged individuals of the cohort was classified in homogenous groups based on symptom profile with latent class analysis, using a battery of questions addressing FM‐associated symptoms validated between FM‐patients and twins. This resulted in three classes: no or few symptoms (LC1), some symptoms (LC2), and high load of FM‐symptoms (LC3). In a 14‐year follow‐up, 1990–2004, information on disability retirement was obtained from official pension registers. Further linkage with Population Register Centre data for 1990–2009 yielded information on the vital status of the cohort subjects. Those with malignancies or inflammatory rheumatic diseases were excluded.

Results: Cumulative incidence of early disability retirement was 9.5% among all 8448 individuals (after exclusions), and 26% in LC3. Adjusted hrs for early retirement were 1.0 (reference class) in LC1, 1.5 (95%CI 1.2–1.7) in LC2, and 2.9 (2.4–3.6) in LC3 for all causes and 1.8 (1.4–2.5) in LC2 and 5.0 (3.6–6.9) in LC3 for musculoskeletal disorders. In 173,675 person‐years, the high symptom class (LC3) had a 43% (95% CI 17–75%) increased overall mortality risk, which was fully accounted for by adjustment for lifestyle factors, mainly smoking.

Conclusion: Symptoms associated with FM strongly correlate with early disability retirement. Lifestyle problems associated with high symptom load need prompt management to avoid increased risk of mortality.
Task shifting and sharing in Tigray, Ethiopia, to achieve comprehensive emergency obstetric care
Authors: Gessessew Amanuel , Barnabas Gebre Ab , Prata Ndola , Weidert Karen
Published: February 2011

Objective

To assess the contribution of nonphysician clinicians (NPCs) to comprehensive emergency obstetric care (CEmOC) in Tigray, Ethiopia.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of the obstetric records of all women treated from January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2008, at the 11 hospitals and 2 health centers with CEmOC status in Tigray. Data were collected using 2 questionnaires, one concerning the facility and the other concerning the patient.

Results

During the studied period 25,629 deliveries and 11,059 obstetric procedures (3369 of which were major surgical interventions) were performed at these 13 institutions. Overall, NPCs performed 63.3% of these procedures, which included 1574 (55.5%) of a total of 2835 cesarean deliveries. Whereas the cesarean deliveries performed by physicians were more often elective, those performed by NPCs were more often indicated by an emergency. Maternal deaths, fetal deaths, and length of hospital stay did not statistically differ by type of attending staff.

Conclusion

Not only do NPCs perform a significant proportion of emergency obstetric procedures in Tigray, but the postoperative outcomes achieved under their care are similar to those attained by physicians. Strengthening NPC training programs in emergency obstetric surgery should further reduce maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity in Ethiopia.
Complications of mid‐urethral slings for treatment of stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Pushkar Dmitry Y. , Godunov Boris N. , Gvozdev Michail , Kasyan Gevorg R.
Published: February 2011

Objective

To compare the incidence of complications associated with the use of retropubic tension‐free vaginal tape (TVT) and transobturator tension‐free vaginal tape (TVT‐O) for the management of stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study, 1081 patients were treated for SUI via mid‐urethral slings, and the outcomes of those treated via TVT and those treated via TVT‐O were compared. Patients who suffered from recurrent or mixed urinary incontinence were excluded.

Results

Group 1 included patients treated via TVT (n = 207) and group 2 included those treated with TVT‐O (n = 570). There was a higher incidence of bladder perforation (5.4% versus 0.6%; P = 0.001) and hematoma formation (9.1% versus 1.5%; P = 0.001) in group 1 than in group 2. Compared with group 1, there was higher incidence of vaginal wall perforation in group 2 (0.0% versus 3.8%, P = 0.044). The rate of intraoperative complications was not related to patient age, body mass index, or parity. Of the patients who did not leak urine during a cough test 1 month after surgery, 90.9% still had a negative cough test at the long‐term follow‐up.

Conclusion

TVT‐O was superior to TVT with regard to the incidence of bladder perforation and hematoma formation, but it resulted in more vaginal wall injuries.
Immediate provisional restoration of a single‐tooth implant in the esthetic zone: A case report
Authors: Fu Po‐Sung , Wu Yi‐Min , Tsai Ching‐Fang , Huang Ta‐Ko , Chen Wen‐Cheng , Hung Chun‐Cheng
Published: February 2011

Immediate implant restoration of single implants may demonstrate a positive effect on peri‐implant soft tissue. Placement of a provisional restoration following implant surgery can create soft tissue contours that resemble normal gingival topography before placement of the definitive prosthesis. This article describes a staged approach of the mandibular permanent right central incisor, which was congenital missing. The proper space for restoration of the missing incisor was created through orthodontic treatment. The scheduled implant site was reconstructed using autogenous bone harvested from the chin region. After a healing period of four months, an implant was installed with the connection of a fixed provisional crown to a prefabricated temporary abutment. The soft tissue around the implant healed according to the contours of the provisional restoration and the emergence profile was used to duplicate the definitive restoration. Peri‐implant esthetics was achieved through the staged approach and immediate restoration of the implant.
Primary erythromelalgia with leukonychia combined with ulcerations and infection by Monilia guilliermondii
Authors: Yuan Zhengyong , He Changxiao
Published: February 2011

An 8‐year‐old girl presented with recurrent redness, warming, and pain of the lower extremities for more than 4 years, with exacerbation and accompanying swelling for the past 1 year and ulcers for 1 month. The episodes were triggered by exertion and heat. Her family history revealed that her mother had experienced similar symptoms. Physical examination showed proximal white nails and the distal border in normal color. There was some ulceration in the dorsum of the feet with thick, yellowish secretions, covered by some crusted lesions. Laboratory culture result showed that there were many Monilia guilliermondii in the ulcer specimen. Finally, she was diagnosed with juvenile onset of primary erythromelalgia and was given symptomatic treatment for neuropathic pain and pedal ulcers.
Japanese Liberal Democratic Party Support and the Gender Gap: A New Approach
Authors: Aldrich Daniel P. , Kage Rieko
Published: February 2011

Scholars have argued that there is a broad gender gap in support for the long-ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in Japan. We uncover strong evidence that age, rather than gender, along with rural or urban location, serves as the most critical determinant of party support. Through logistic regression, propensity score matching and simulation techniques applied to four large-scale datasets; we demonstrate that age effects are consistent but slowly diminishing across cohorts between the mid-1970s and the early 2000s. As Japanese women and men age, they come to support the LDP at similar rates controlling for education, income and other demographic factors. We argue that this age gap is a result of socialization and redistribution and not educational levels or socio-economic status, as is often suggested.
On the Mach reflection of a solitary wave: revisited
Authors: LI WENWEN , YEH HARRY , KODAMA YUJI
Published: February 2011

Reflection of an obliquely incident solitary wave at a vertical wall is studied experimentally in the laboratory wave tank. Precision measurements of water-surface variations are achieved with the aid of laser-induced fluorescent (LIF) technique and detailed features of the Mach reflection are captured. During the development stage of the reflection process, the stem wave is not in the form of a Korteweg–de Vries (KdV) soliton but a forced wave, trailing by a continuously broadening depression. Evolution of stem-wave amplification is in good agreement with the Kadomtsev–Petviashvili (KP) theory. The asymptotic characteristics and behaviours are also in agreement with the theory of Miles (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 79, 1977b, p. 171) except those in the neighbourhood of the transition between the Mach reflection and the regular reflection. The predicted maximum fourfold amplification of the stem wave is not realized in the laboratory environment. On the other hand, the laboratory observations are in excellent agreement with the previous numerical results of the higher-order model of Tanaka (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 248, 1993, p. 637). The present laboratory study is the first to sensibly analyse validation of the theory; note that substantial discrepancies exist from previous (both numerical and laboratory) experimental studies. Agreement between experiments and theory can be partially attributed to the large-distance measurements that the precision laboratory apparatus is capable of. More important, to compare the laboratory results with theory, the corrected interaction parameter is derived from proper interpretation of the theory in consideration of the finite incident wave angle. Our laboratory data indicate that the maximum stem wave can reach higher than the maximum solitary wave height. The wave breaking near the wall results in the substantial increase in wave height and slope away from the wall.
Stability and evolution of uniform-vorticity dipoles
Authors: MAKAROV V. G. , KIZNER Z.
Published: February 2011

Using an iterative algorithm, a family of stationary two-dimensional vortical dipoles is constructed, including translational (symmetric and asymmetric about the translation axis) and orbital (i.e. moving in circles) dipoles. The patches of uniform vorticity comprising a dipole possess symmetry about the axis passing through their centroids and are, generally, unequal in area and absolute value of vorticity. The solutions are discriminated by three parameters, the ratio of the areas of individual vortices, the ratio of their vorticities and the separation between the centroids of the patches. The dipole stability and evolution of unstable states are studied numerically with a contour dynamics method, where the perturbations allowed are, generally, asymmetric. The diagrams of convergence of the iterative algorithm (without any symmetry constraints) are built in three cross-sections of the parameter space: at opposite vorticity of the individual vortices, at equal areas of the vortices and at zero net circulation of the vortex pairs (when inequality of areas of the individual vortices is offset by inequality of the absolute values of vorticity). The convergence bound is shown to be close to the stability bound in the parameter space, and the larger is the separation, the stronger are the perturbations needed to move the dipole out of equilibrium. Typical scenarios of the evolution of unstable symmetric translational dipoles and weakly stable dipoles of other kinds are described, including the transition of a dipole into an oscillating tripole – the scenario that has not been discussed so far.
Effect of chlorhexidine gluconate and benzydamine hydrochloride mouth spray on clinical signs and quality of life of patients with streptococcal tonsillopharyngitis: multicentre, prospective, randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study
Authors: Cingi C , Songu M , Ural A , Erdogmus N , Yildirim M , Cakli H , Bal C
Published: February 2011

Objective:

To assess the effect of chlorhexidine gluconate and benzydamine hydrochloride mouth spray, used in conjunction with antibiotic treatment, on the intensity of clinical signs and quality of life of patients with group A streptococcal tonsillopharyngitis.

Methods:

Patients (n = 147) with streptococcal tonsillopharyngitis were recruited and randomly allocated to either the treatment group (penicillin plus chlorhexidine and benzydamine;n = 72) or control group (penicillin plus placebo;n = 75). Blinded assessments were conducted before and after 10 days' treatment, using an intensity rating scale for clinical sign severity, a visual analogue scale for subjective health state, the Short Form 36 Health Questionnaire for quality of life, and a customised questionnaire for side effects.

Results:

The treatment group showed a statistically significant reduction in the intensity of clinical signs, compared with the control group. On treatment day 7, there was no significant difference in quality of life between the treatment and control groups. The treatment drugs were well tolerated, and no serious adverse events were observed.

Conclusion:

Chlorhexidine gluconate and benzydamine hydrochloride mouth spray, added to standard antibiotic treatment, significantly alleviate the intensity of clinical signs in patients with streptococcal pharyngitis. Further research is needed using larger sample sizes or alternative control groups.
Maize remittances, smallholder livelihoods and maize consumption in Malawi
Authors: Andersson Agnes
Published: February 2011

This article explores the phenomenon of in-kind remittances of maize and its implications for rural household livelihoods and food consumption. Interviews with a sample of 391 households in eight villages in Malawi are used to substantiate the discussion. Explanations for in-kind remittances are sought in the micro-level interaction between the formal market realm, informalised exchange systems and the household. Remittances are not connected to lower commercialisation levels, suggesting that the explanation for remittances should be sought in the production and consumption patterns of the households. Remittances function as an important redistributive mechanism for food across space. The role of smallholder food production for urban livelihoods as well as the subsistence responsibilities of rural households are underestimated if agrarian household level linkages from rural to urban areas are not recognised in national production and consumption surveys and among policy makers.
The AU: a new arena for Anglo-French cooperation in Africa?
Authors: Chafer Tony
Published: February 2011

At their 1998 Saint-Malo summit, the UK and French governments promised to set aside a century of rivalry and cooperate more closely on Africa. They also signalled their intention to develop a continent-wide focus on Africa, which would include building up the capacity of regional organisations. They were helped in this latter goal by the winding up of the OAU and its replacement by the AU in 2002. This article therefore examines the extent and nature of Anglo-French cooperation vis-à-vis the AU. It sets out briefly the history of UK and French neglect of the OAU, reviews the key developments that pushed for a more coordinated stance on the AU, and then – drawing on extensive interviews in London, Paris, Brussels, Addis Ababa and Dakar – evaluates the extent of Anglo-French cooperation. It concludes by noting the uneven nature of Anglo-French cooperation vis-à-vis the AU and assesses the reasons for this.
A new species of Cirratulidae (Polychaeta) with characteristics of three genera, and a key to the known species around Mar del Plata (south-western Atlantic)
Authors: Elías Rodolfo , Rivero María Silvia
Published: February 2011

Assessing and monitoring the environmental impact off Mar del Plata (38°S 57°W) led to the need to identify the cirratulid polychaetes. Cirratulids are indicators of moderately impacted areas or early indicators of organic contamination. Some subtidal sand patches affected by sewage discharge have high abundances of a new, rare and difficult to place species, such asCaulleriella trispina sp. nov. This species is characterized by having characters of three bitentaculate cirratulid genera, including three kinds of spines: unidentate, sub-bidentate and bidentate. The genera and their taxonomic characters are discussed as well as the need for monitoring and environmental assessments for correct identification. A key to the known species from the warm-temperate region of Argentine Cirratulidae is given.
Family care-giving and decisions about entry to care: a rural perspective
Authors: RYAN ASSUMPTA , MCKENNA HUGH , SLEVIN OLIVER
Published: February 2011

The aim of this qualitative study was to explore rural family carers' experiences of the nursing home placement of an older relative. The study was undertaken in a large Health and Social Care Trust in Northern Ireland using a grounded theory approach. Purposive sampling was used to initiate data collection and thereafter theoretical sampling was employed. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 29 relatives of nursing home residents and the resultant data were recorded, transcribed and analysed using constant comparisons. The software package, QSR NVivo, was used to facilitate data management and retrieval. Older people had deep attachments to their homes and entry to care was a last resort. Rural family carers had close relationships with health- and social-care practitioners and felt supported in the decision-making process. The choice of home was a foregone conclusion for carers who had a strong sense of familiarity with the nursing homes in their area. This familiarity was influenced by the relatively rural communities in which respondents resided and by an efficient ‘grapevine’, which seemed to thrive in these small communities. This familiarity, in turn, influenced the choice of nursing home, timing of the placement and responses of family carers. The findings indicate that issues such as rurality and familiarity warrant a more detailed exploration in future research on entry to care.
Supports of weight modules over Witt algebras
Authors: Mazorchuk Volodymyr , Zhao Kaiming
Published: February 2011

As the first step towards a classification of simple weight modules with finite dimensional weight spaces over Witt algebras Wn, we explicitly describe the supports of such modules. We also obtain some descriptions of the support of an arbitrary simple weight module over a ℤn-graded Lie algebra $\mathfrak{g}$ having a root space decomposition $\smash{\bigoplus_{\alpha\in\mathbb{Z}^n}\mathfrak{g}_\alpha}$ with respect to the abelian subalgebra $\mathfrak{g}_0$, with the property $\smash{[\mathfrak{g}_\alpha,\mathfrak{g}_\beta] = \mathfrak{g}_{\alpha+\beta}}$ for all α, β ∈ ℤn, α ≠ β (this class contains the algebra Wn).
On irregular weak solutions of the energy–momentum equations
Authors: Sivaloganathan J. , Spector Scott J.
Published: February 2011

Irregular mappings that are weak solutions of the energy–momentum equations are presented. One example is discontinuous at a countable number of points while the other is C1, but not C2. These mappings are not solutions of the usual Euler–Lagrange equations.
Dyadic Fefferman–Stein inequalities and the equivalence of Haar bases on weighted Lebesgue spaces
Authors: Aimar Hugo , Bernardis Ana , Nowak Luis
Published: February 2011

We give sufficient conditions on two dyadic systems to obtain the equivalence of corresponding Haar systems on dyadic weighted Lebesgue spaces on spaces of homogeneous type. In order to obtain these results, we prove a Fefferman–Stein weighted inequality for vector-valued dyadic Hardy–Littlewood maximal operators with dyadic weights in this general setting.
Terrorism and Armed Conflict: Insights from a Law & Literature Perspective
Authors: BIANCHI ANDREA
Published: February 2011

This article examines some selected issues relating to terrorism and international humanitarian law (IHL): the characterization of the nature of armed conflicts in which armed groups, qualified as ‘terrorist’, are involved; terrorism as a war crime; and the determination of the status and treatment (including detention) of terrorist suspects apprehended in the course of an armed conflict. The analysis emphasizes the importance of legal categories and legal qualifications of factual situations for the purpose of determining the applicable law as well as the crucial importance of taking societal practice into account when evaluating the state of the law in any given area. The main focus of the article, however, is on providing a few basic insights, drawn from the law & literature movement, on international humanitarian law and terrorism. Short of any epistemological ambition, literature is used as a remainder that the law is not a set of neutral rules, elaborated and applied independently of context and historical background; that the human condition remains central; and that legal regulation cannot be oblivious to it. Finally, mention is made of interpretive techniques, developed in the field of literary studies, that may help establish social consensus on the interpretation of IHL grey areas.
Territorial Integrity Narrowly Interpreted: Reasserting the Classical Inter-State Paradigm of International Law
Authors: CORTEN OLIVIER
Published: February 2011

Paragraph 80 of the Kosovo AO reflects a very traditional conception of international law. By insisting on the inter-state character of the principle of territorial integrity, the Court refused to challenge the classical argument of the ‘neutrality’ of international law in regard to secession. The Court also refused any reinterpretation of Article 2(4) of the UN Charter. As already stated in the Wall Advisory Opinion, the prohibition of the use of force is only applicable between states. It does not apply between states and non-state actors, whether secessionist or not. Similarly, the Court refused the argument of ‘remedial secession’, at least as far as it would imply a right to violate the principle of territorial integrity of a state by a secessionist group. Indeed, if the latter principle is not applicable in such situations, it logically cannot be violated and there is therefore no right to infringe it. Finally, the Court refused to consider Kosovo as a ‘special case’ or a sui generis situation. According to the Court, this situation must be governed by the traditional rules of general international law. This implies that Kosovo did not violate international law by proclaiming independence. But this also implies that a declaration of independence by a secessionist group inside Kosovo would not be contrary to international law. Moreover, it can be pointed out that if Kosovo is not a state (a hypothesis perfectly compatible with the advisory opinion), then general international law would not preclude Serbia from invoking the argument of ‘legal neutrality’ to support such a secessionist group.
The Kosovo Advisory Opinion and UNSCR 1244 (1999): A Declaration of ‘Independence from International Law’?
Authors: KOHEN MARCELO G. , DEL MAR KATHERINE
Published: February 2011

This article focuses on the reasoning employed by the International Court of Justice in its Advisory Opinion rendered on 22 July 2010 with respect to the most formidable legal impasse of the accordance with international law of the unilateral declaration of independence: the lex specialis that applied at the critical date, and which the Court affirmed continues to apply to Kosovo, as established by the United Nations Security Council in its Resolution 1244 (1999). The Court's analysis of the applicable lex specialis is questionable. Its analysis was coloured by the narrow approach it took to answering the question it was asked to address. It queried an unambiguous factual qualification made by the General Assembly, and it disregarded factual qualifications made by the Secretary-General, his Special Representative, and indeed all relevant actors. It failed to uphold the legally binding provisions of Security Council Resolution 1244, and it did not qualify as unlawful or invalid an act of a subsidiary body of the Security Council that was undertaken in excess of authority and contrary to the fundamental provisions of that Resolution. The resolute conclusion of the majority of the Court that the unilateral declaration of independence did not violate international law seems to read as a declaration of ‘independence from international law’.
Self-Determination, Secession, and Dispute Settlement after the Kosovo Advisory Opinion
Authors: WILDE RALPH
Published: February 2011

This piece provides critical analysis of some of the broader consequences of what is potentially suggested by certain findings in the 2010 Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice on ‘Accordance with International Law of the Unilateral Declaration of Independence in Respect of Kosovo’. The focus is on consequences for disputes generally, and disputes relating to self-determination and secession in particular, in either case including disputes that have been made subject to a Security Council-imposed settlement process. In the first place, the piece considers the relatively specific suggestion that sub-state groups are free to unilaterally terminate a Security Council-imposed process aimed at enabling the resolution of a dispute concerning their aspirations to external self-determination, without this termination having to comply with the principles of justice and international law. In the second place, the piece considers the relatively broad suggestion that the act of any sub-state group of declaring independence and seceding from the state within which it is located, without the consent of that state or any other international legal sanction, is likewise not regulated by international law.
The Advisory Opinion on Kosovo: An Opportunity Lost, or a Poisoned Chalice Refused?
Authors: HANNUM HURST
Published: February 2011

The ICJ's Advisory Opinion adopted a very narrow approach to the question posed by the General Assembly, but its basic response – that Kosovo's declaration of independence did not violate general international law – was correct. While it might have been preferable if the Court had given more guidance regarding the contemporary scope of self-determination, neither supporters nor opponents of Kosovo's independence gained much from the opinion. No definitive conclusion about Kosovo's status can be drawn without agreement between Pristina and Belgrade, and outsiders should avoid prejudging or interfering in that outcome.