bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water resource management – the water utilities view
Authors: BOWLES F. J. , HENDERSON P.
Published: October 2011

Abstract  The potential effects of abstraction for water supply on salmonid populations in England and Wales are reviewed. The duties of water resource planning and the contribution of the water industry investment in river basin management planning are discussed. Given the possible effects of climate change on public water supply and demand, and the uncertainty of hydroecological relationships, key principles to ensure long‐term investment by water utility companies to meet European Union Water Framework Directive standards achieve the best benefit for salmonids are recommended.
Metabolic theory, life history and the distribution of a terrestrial ectotherm
Authors: Kearney Michael
Published: October 2011

1. Life histories, population dynamics and geographic range limits are fundamentally constrained by the way organisms acquire and allocate energy and matter. Metabolic theories provide general, parameter‐sparse frameworks for understanding these constraints. However, they require the accurate estimation of body temperature which can be especially challenging in terrestrial environments.

2. Here, I integrate a metabolic theory (Dynamic Energy Budget theory, DEB) with a biophysical model for inferring field body temperatures and activity periods of terrestrial ectotherms and apply it to study life‐history variation and geographic range limits in a widespread North American lizard, Sceloporus undulatus.

3. The model successfully predicted trait co‐variation (size at maturity, maximum size, reproductive output and length‐mass allometry) through changes in a single parameter. It also predicted seasonal and geographic variation in field growth rates, age at first reproduction, reproductive output and geographic range limits (via rmax estimates), all as a function of spatial climatic data. Although variation in age at maturity was mostly explained by climate, variation in annual reproduction was largely a product of local body size.

4. Dynamic Energy Budget metabolic theory is concluded to be a powerful and general means to mechanistically integrate the dynamics of growth and reproduction into niche models of ectotherms.
Phenotypic differentiation in a common garden reflects the phylogeography of a widespread Alpine plant
Authors: Frei Eva S. , Scheepens J. F. , Armbruster Georg F. J. , Stöcklin Jürg
Published: October 2011

1. Glacial history has affected the phylogeographic structure of numerous Alpine plant species, but its impact on phenotypic differentiation has been little studied. Therefore, we asked whether phenotypic differentiation in a common garden reflects the phylogeographic structure of the widespread Alpine plant Geum reptans L.

2. We combined a molecular investigation with a common garden experiment and investigated genets from 16 populations of G. reptans sampled from the European Alps. Using neutral molecular markers (RAPDs) and Bayesian cluster analysis, we analysed the species’ genetic differentiation and phylogeographic structure. In the common garden, we measured the differentiation of phenotypic traits related to growth, reproduction and leaf morphology.

3. Molecular analysis partitioned the populations into three genetic groups, indicating pronounced phylogeographic structure. Regional molecular variation was correlated with regional phenotypic differentiation.

4. Quantitative trait differentiation (QST) differed from neutral molecular differentiation (GST) in 10 of 11 traits, indicating that selection has contributed to phenotypic differentiation. Significant negative correlations between biomass and precipitation records for site of origin are a further indication of adaptation.

5. Synthesis. The current study compared regional molecular variation and phenotypic differentiation among populations of a widespread species in the context of extreme range changes during glaciations in the Alps. Because the common garden phenotypic differentiation of G. reptans reflects its phylogeographic structure, we conclude that glacial history affected both genotypes and phenotypes. The results suggest that the present‐day phenotypic differentiation was caused by genetic drift and limited gene flow between populations in glacial refugia and during post‐glacial recolonization, as well as by adaptation to current climatic conditions. Our findings are relevant for understanding the adaptive potential of Alpine plants and predicting potential range shifts in response to future climate change.
Glomerular filtration rate and parathyroid hormone are associated with 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D in men without chronic kidney disease
Authors: Karhapää P. , Pihlajamäki J. , Pörsti I. , Kastarinen M. , Mustonen J. , Niemelä O. , Tuomi H. , Kuusisto J.
Published: October 2011

Abstract.  Karhapää P, Pihlajamäki J, Pörsti I, Kastarinen M, Mustonen J, Niemelä O, Tuomi H, Kuusisto J (University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio; University of Tampere, Tampere; Finnish Medical Agency, Kuopio; and University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland). Glomerular filtration rate and parathyroid hormone are associated with 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D in men without chronic kidney disease. J Intern Med 2012; 271: 573–580.

Background and aim.  Vitamin D, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) are related to cardiovascular disease risk. We examined the associations between the levels of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25‐D) and 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25‐D) and both eGFR and PTH.

Design and setting.  Cross‐sectional population‐based study in Kuopio, Eastern Finland.

Subjects.  A total of 909 men without known chronic kidney disease (CKD) and not receiving antidiabetic medication, aged from 45 to 73 years, were included in the study.

Main outcome measures.  Fasting levels of 25‐D, 1,25‐D, creatinine and PTH were measured, and an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed.

Results.  High levels of 25‐D were associated with low levels of eGFR and PTH (β = −0.17, P = 9 × 10−7 and β = −0.28, P = 6 × 10−17, respectively, adjusted for age, body mass index and levels of calcium, phosphorus and glucose in a 2‐h OGTT, and also for either eGFR or PTH). By contrast, high 1,25‐D levels were associated with high levels of eGFR and PTH (β = 0.17, P = 2 × 10−6 and β = 0.19, P = 5 × 10−8, respectively, adjusted as mentioned earlier and additionally for 25‐D). Eighteen per cent of men in the highest 25‐D quartile were in the lowest 1,25‐D quartile and also had a lower eGFR than men with high levels of both 25‐D and 1,25‐D (P = 4 × 10−5). Finally, 15% of men in the lowest 25‐D quartile were in the highest 1,25‐D quartile and also had higher PTH levels than men with low levels of both 25‐D and 1,25‐D (P = 2 × 10−3).

Conclusion.  Our findings suggest that both eGFR and PTH are significantly associated with vitamin D metabolism in men without known CKD.
Genomics and integrated systems biology in Plasmodium falciparum: a path to malaria control and eradication
Authors: LE ROCH K. G. , CHUNG D.‐W. D. , PONTS N.
Published: October 2011

The first draft of the human malaria parasite’s genome was released in 2002. Since then, the malaria scientific community has witnessed a steady embrace of new and powerful functional genomic studies. Over the years, these approaches have slowly revolutionized malaria research and enabled the comprehensive, unbiased investigation of various aspects of the parasite’s biology. These genome‐wide analyses delivered a refined annotation of the parasite’s genome, delivered a better knowledge of its RNA, proteins and metabolite derivatives, and fostered the discovery of new vaccine and drug targets. Despite the positive impacts of these genomic studies, most research and investment still focus on protein targets, drugs and vaccine candidates that were known before the publication of the parasite genome sequence. However, recent access to next‐generation sequencing technologies, along with an increased number of genome‐wide applications, is expanding the impact of the parasite genome on biomedical research, contributing to a paradigm shift in research activities that may possibly lead to new optimized diagnosis and treatments. This review provides an update of Plasmodium falciparum genome sequences and an overview of the rapid development of genomics and system biology applications that have an immense potential of creating powerful tools for a successful malaria eradication campaign.
T and B Cell Deficiency Associated with Yellow Nail Syndrome
Authors: Gupta S. , Samra D. , Yel L. , Agrawal S.
Published: October 2011

Yellow nail syndrome (YNS) is a rare disorder of unknown aetiology that is characterized by yellow nails associated with lymphoedema and chronic respiratory manifestations. There are no detailed immunological studies in YNS. In this study, we present first extensive immunological analysis of both adaptive and innate immunity in two patients with YNS. One patient has common variable immunodeficiency, whereas second patient has specific antibody deficiency syndrome. Severe lymphopaenia, a striking deficiency of naïve CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and total B cells, and increased transitional B cells were observed. T cell proliferative response to mitogens and antigens was significantly reduced in both patients. Both patients failed to make specific antibody response to pneumococci. Complement, natural killer cell activity and neutrophil oxidative burst were normal. Immunoglobulin administration resulted in decreased frequency and severity of infections, and an impressive effect was observed on lymphoedema and on the recurrence of pleural effusion. Our data show that YNS is associated with both T and B cell defects. Furthermore, Immunoglobulin may be beneficial in clinical manifestations of lymphoedema.
Smaller right amygdala in Caucasian alcohol‐dependent male patients with a history of intimate partner violence: a volumetric imaging study
Authors: Zhang Lishu , Kerich Mike , Schwandt Melanie L. , Rawlings Robert R. , McKellar Joshua D. , Momenan Reza , Hommer Daniel W. , George David T.
Published: October 2011

Studies have shown that various brain structure abnormalities are associated with chronic alcohol abuse and impulsive aggression. However, few imaging studies have focused on violent individuals with a diagnosis of alcohol dependence. The present study used volumetric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to compare the volumes of different structural components of prefrontal cortex and six subcortical structures in perpetrators of intimate partner violence with alcohol dependence (IPV‐ADs), non‐violent alcohol‐dependent patients (non‐violent ADs) and healthy controls (HCs). Caucasian men (n = 54), ages 24–55, who had participated in National Institutes of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism treatment programs, were grouped together as IPV‐ADs (n = 27), non‐violent ADs (n = 14) and HCs (n = 13). The MRI scan was performed at least 3 weeks from the participant's last alcohol use. T1‐weighted images were used to measure the volumes of intracranial space, gray and white matter, orbitofrontal cortex, medial prefrontal cortex, lateral prefrontal cortex, and six subcortical structures. Results revealed that IPV‐ADs, compared with non‐violent ADs and HCs, had a significant volume reduction in the right amygdala. No significant volumetric difference was found in other structures. This finding suggests that structural deficits in the right amygdala may underlie impulsive types of aggression often seen in alcohol‐dependent patients with a history of IPV. It adds to a growing literature suggesting that there are fundamental differences between alcohol‐dependent patients with and without IPV.
Increased HLA class I and II diversity as 72 novel alleles are identified in volunteers for the National Marrow Donor Program Registry in 2010
Authors: Lazaro A. M. , Henry J. , Ng J. , Hurley C. K. , Posch P. E.
Published: October 2011

Seventy‐two novel human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I and class II alleles are described from volunteers for the ‘Be The Match Registry®’: 17 HLA‐A alleles, 12 HLA‐C alleles, 31 HLA‐B alleles and 12 HLA‐DRB1 alleles. Forty‐six (∼64%) of the 72 novel alleles are single‐nucleotide substitution variants when compared with their most homologous allele. Five of these single‐nucleotide variants are silent substitutions and one creates a non‐expressed allele (B*44:108N). The remaining novel alleles differ from their most similar allele by two to five nucleotide substitutions. One of the novel HLA‐C alleles (C*07:150Q) is of questionable expression due to an insertion of 21 nucleotides starting at codon 143 that adds seven amino acids to exon 3. An inter‐locus gene conversion may have created the novel allele HLA‐A*23:31 that shares its codon differences with HLA‐B*07:28. Some of the new alleles encode novel codons and unique amino acid changes at polymorphic positions in the HLA‐A (codons 116 and 150), HLA‐C (codon 114), HLA‐B (codons 11, 21, 35, 42, 48, 73, 98 and 170) and HLA‐DRB1 (codon 29) loci.
Hashemite Antiquity and Modernity: Iconography in Neoliberal Jordan
Authors: Corbett Elena
Published: October 2011

Owing to a range of economic policies and internal and external political relations, King Abdullah II of Jordan has a charisma problem. The ongoing political upheaval in the country began with his dissolution of Parliament in late 2009, in the absence of which he and his ministers promulgated a series of Temporary Laws to push policies that Parliament would not abide. Since then, there has been an election, an array of sackings and reshufflings of various officials, and promises of reform, all in an attempt to mitigate this personal charisma deficit and control the growing and increasingly vehement mobilisation against unpopular policies. Since the king assumed the throne in 1999, visual cues, including giant flags, slogans, ad campaigns, and images of the monarch have been deployed to the same end. This article discusses a different kind of visual cue, Amman's public park known as the King Hussein Gardens, and specifically its component known as the Historical Passageway. The Passageway is a nearly half‐kilometre long monument adding – for the first time – a comprehensive view of Jordan's archaeological past to its modern history. In doing so, novel nuances are meant to become part of a complex national narrative that the Hashemite monarchs have developed and tweaked since the days of the Mandate.
Male inbreeding status affects female fitness in a seed‐feeding beetle
Authors: FOX C. W. , XU J. , WALLIN W. G. , CURTIS C. L.
Published: October 2011

Inbreeding generally reduces male mating activity such that inbred males are less successful in male–male competition. Inbred males can also have smaller accessory glands, transfer less sperm and produce sperm that are less motile, less viable or have a greater frequency of abnormalities, all of which can reduce the fertilization success and fitness of inbred males relative to outbred males. However, few studies have examined how male inbreeding status affects the fitness of females with whom they mate. In this study, we examine the effect of male inbreeding status (inbreeding coefficient f = 0.25 vs. f = 0) on the fecundity, adult longevity and the fate of eggs produced by outbred females in the seed‐feeding beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus. Females mated to inbred males were less likely to lay eggs. Of those that laid eggs, females mated to inbred males laid 6–12% fewer eggs. Females mated to inbred males lived on average 5.4% longer than did females mated to outbred males, but this effect disappeared when lifetime fecundity was used as a covariate in the analysis. There was no effect of male inbreeding status on the proportion of a female’s eggs that developed or hatched, and no evidence that inbred males produced smaller nuptial gifts. However, ejaculates of inbred males contained 17–33% fewer sperm, on average, than did ejaculates of outbred males. Our study demonstrates that mating with inbred males has significant direct consequences for the fitness of female C. maculatus, likely mediated by effects of inbreeding status on the number of sperm in male ejaculates. Direct effects of male inbreeding status on female fitness should be more widely considered in theoretical models and empirical studies of mate choice.
Effect of the administration of young leaves of Quercus pyrenaica on rumen fermentation in relation to oak tannin toxicosis in cattle
Authors: Doce R. R. , Belenguer A. , Toral P. G. , Hervás G. , Frutos P.
Published: October 2011

Three experiments were conducted to study the effect of the administration of young leaves of Quercus pyrenaica (OL) on in vivo ruminal fermentation in relation to oak tannin toxicosis in cattle. In Experiment 1, six bulls were fed up to 5 kg fresh matter (FM) of OL per animal and day for 14 days. In Experiment 2, another six bulls were first subjected to severe feed restriction for 8 days and then fed a higher amount of OL (approximately 10 kg FM daily) for 3 days. In Experiment 3, three bulls received the same amount of OL as in Experiment 1 for 6 days, but adding a severe feed restriction as in Experiment 2. In situ DM disappearance of grass hay and OL, and pH and ammonia and volatile fatty acid concentrations were recorded throughout the three assays. Daily administration of up to 5 kg OL did not considerably affect ruminal fermentation, unless it was preceded by a severe feed restriction period. Administration of 10 kg OL preceded by undernutrition triggered a critical reduction in rumen fermentation activity concomitantly with an acute intoxication. Interestingly, some results differ from those observed previously in vitro, which highlights the importance of validating in vitro data with in vivo measurements, given the complexity of extrapolation in ruminants.
Regulation of growth factors‐associated cell migration by C‐phycocyanin scaffold in dermal wound healing
Authors: Madhyastha Harishkumar , Madhyastha Radha , Nakajima Yuichi , Omura Sayuri , Maruyama Masugi
Published: October 2011

1. The present study examined the role of C‐phycocyanin (C‐pc) in relation to growth factors and cell migration during wound healing.

2. Histological and biochemical studies showed that C‐pc scaffold significantly (P < 0.01) increased hydroxyl proline, total hexamine and protein content, and decreased uronic acid content in the wound tissues during a time course study in newly formed skin.

3. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction array of mouse growth factors in wound tissue showed overexpression (up to 10‐fold) of growth factors, such as Cxcl12, Fgf18, Lefty 1, Lefty 2, Rabep 1 and Zip91, and downregulation (up to −10‐fold) of Amh, Bmp 7 and Nodal genes in a 6‐day period in C‐pc treated groups. Also, Csf 3, Fgf 22, Mdk, Igf 2, transforming growth factor (TGF)‐α 1 and interleukin (IL)‐1β showed an upregulation of more than 30‐fold than the control groups. TGF‐β subfamily cytokine growth factors, such as Bmp 2, 4 and 8b, and other growth factors, such as Cxcl 1, showed the highest activity on day 3, showing a transient type of regulation. Western blot analysis showed a positive correlation between gene activity and protein expressions of Bmp 8b, Bmp4, Bmp2 and Cxcl 1. Day 6 in the C‐pc group showed the highest csf3 and IL‐1β expression.

4. C‐pc had no direct effect on keratinocyte migration. However, keratinocytes that were co‐cultured with fibroblasts showed a significantly higher rate of migration in the presence of C‐pc, showing an indirect effect of C‐pc on keratinocyte migration.

5. In conclusion, biodegradable C‐pc scaffold might help to serve as an alternate scaffold material for wound healing.
Prognostic value of C‐reactive protein in parapneumonic effusions
Authors: SKOURAS VASILEIOS , BOULTADAKIS EUAGGELOS , NIKOULIS DIMITRIOS , POLYCHRONOPOULOS VLASIS , DANIIL ZOE , KALOMENIDIS IOANNIS , GOURGOULIANIS KONSTANTINOS I.
Published: October 2011

Background and objective:  Parapneumonic effusions (PPE) that require drainage are referred to as complicated parapneumonic effusions (CPPE). Following resolution of these effusions, residual pleural thickening (RPT) may persist. We hypothesize that the concentrations of CRP in pleural fluid (CRPpf) and serum (CRPser) can be used to identify CPPE and to predict RPT.

Methods:  All patients with non‐purulent PPE, who were admitted to two tertiary hospitals during a 30‐month period, were enrolled in the study. Baseline CRPpf and CRPser levels were compared between patients with complicated or uncomplicated PPE, as well as between patients with or without RPT of >10 mm, 6 months after discharge from hospital. Cut‐off values for identification of CPPE and prediction of RPT were determined by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the association between CRP levels and RPT.

Results:  Fifty‐four patients were included in the study. Patients with CPPE (n = 23) had significantly higher levels of both CRPpf and CRPser than those with uncomplicated PPE. For identification of CPPE, a CRPpf level >78.5 mg/L and a CRPser level >83 mg/L gave 84% and 47% sensitivity, with 65% and 87% specificity, respectively. Classical criteria (pleural fluid pH <7.20, LDH >1000 IU/L, glucose <600 mg/L) were superior for this purpose. A combination of classical biomarkers with CRP levels using an ‘AND’ or ‘OR’ rule improved the positive and negative predictive values, respectively. CRPser was an independent predictor for development of RPT (adjusted OR 1.18). A CRPser level >150 mg/L had 91% specificity and 61% sensitivity for prediction of RPT.

Conclusions:  This study demonstrated the value of CRPser for prediction of RPT in patients with PPE. Moreover, when used in combination with classical biomarkers, CRP levels may be a useful adjunct for decision‐making in relation to treatment of patients with non‐purulent PPE.
A case of primary retroperitoneal serous adenocarcinoma
Authors: Arichi Naoko , Yasumoto Hiroaki , Mitsui Yozo , Hiraoka Takeo , Honda Satoshi , Shiina Hiroaki , Igawa Mikio
Published: October 2011

Primary retroperitoneal serous adenocarcinoma (PRSA) is an extremely rare malignancy, of which only six cases have been reported in the literature. Here, we describe a PRSA in a 75‐year‐old woman treated with surgical excision and adjuvant chemotherapy. The pathological features of PRSA resemble those of ovarian serous carcinoma, which suggests that a combination of surgical excision with adjuvant chemotherapy may be the best option.
The views of experts and residents on social vulnerability to flash floods in an Alpine region of Italy
Authors: De Marchi Bruna , Scolobig Anna
Published: October 2011

This paper reports on research work performed for Floodsite1 a European Community‐funded project on the social aspects of vulnerability in the Adige/Sarca river basin of the Trentino‐Alto Adige region, Italy. It identifies some limitations to the use of a fixed set of indicators, which fail to account for either local peculiarities or the intangible aspects that contribute to the shaping of social vulnerability. The authors employed a number of methods to investigate the opinions of professionals and residents on risk and safety, distinguishing between the individual and the institutional components of social vulnerability. Adopting a systemic perspective, they explored the interactions between these two elements, showing how they may give rise to unexpected phenomena. The ‘safety paradox’ and the ‘efficiency paradox’ are discussed, emerging when increased protection provided by structural devices and dedicated institutions translates into a lack of awareness and agency on the part of residents.
Lessons from the 2006 Louisiana Health and Population Survey
Authors: Stone Gregory S. , Henderson Alden K. , Davis Stephanie I. , Lewin Michael , Shimizu Iris , Krishnamurthy Ramesh , Bisgard Kris , Lee Robin , Jumaan Aisha , Marziale Erin , Bryant Miranda , Williams Clayton , Mason Karen , Sirois Maria , Hori Makiko , Chapman Jonathan , Bowman David J.
Published: October 2011

The 2005 hurricane season caused extensive damage and induced a mass migration of approximately 1.1 million people from southern Louisiana in the United States. Current and accurate estimates of population size and demographics and an assessment of the critical needs for public services were required to guide recovery efforts. Since forecasts using pre‐hurricane data may produce inaccurate estimates of the post‐hurricane population, a household survey in 18 hurricane‐affected parishes was conducted to provide timely and credible information on the size of these populations, their demographics and their condition. This paper describes the methods used, the challenges encountered, and the key factors for successful implementation. This post‐disaster survey was unique because it identified the needs of the people in the affected parishes and quantified the number of people with these needs. Consequently, this survey established new population and health indicator baselines that otherwise would have not been available to guide the relief and recovery efforts in southern Louisiana.
Knowledge creation and reliable decision‐making in complex emergencies
Authors: Kruke Bjørn Ivar , Olsen Odd Einar
Published: October 2011

This paper examines how the creation of knowledge and the location of decision‐making authority within relief organisations influence coordination. Information was collected from the headquarters of international non‐governmental organisations in 2003, as well as from Darfur and Khartoum, Sudan, in 2005 and 2007, respectively. Relief organisations rely on quality information dissemination between the field and headquarters. Yet, reporting from the field often is overloaded with misplaced precision, making it difficult for managers at headquarters to grasp the key issues. A high turnover rate among international field officers and a lack of inclusion of local staff and partners prevent the development of accumulated knowledge. Furthermore, most relief organisations have a centralised decision‐making system. The creation of ‘collective‐meaning structures’, based on reliable information on all decision‐making levels, opens the way to the decentralisation of decision‐making to field officers engaged with inter‐organisational coordination structures. In sum, more efficient and reliable coordination between organisations relies on improved decision‐making systems within each organisation.
Subjective Well‐being Poverty of the Elderly Population in China
Authors: Wang Xiaolin , Shang Xiaoyuan , Xu Liping
Published: October 2011

Poverty is represented not only by objective well‐being indicators which include income and consumption levels, but also by subjective indicators which reflect what a person feels. It is estimated in this article that the incidence of subjective well‐being poverty (SWP) among the Chinese rural elderly population in 2006 was 9.7 per cent, about 4.2 times as much as that of the country's total rural population in the same year, which was 2.3 per cent. Over 16 per cent of the rural elderly population and 11.5 per cent of the urban elderly population rated their life satisfaction as poor or very poor. In terms of SWP, senior citizens, especially those who live in rural areas or who are women or very aged, have become a special group among the poor in China. This article suggests that China's social policies for the new stage take into account the issue of absolute poverty and also that of SWP. A multi‐dimensional strategy system targeting the issue of poverty needs to be established, and a policy system to address poverty reduction as well as old age security and care should be implemented.
GROOVED WARE FEASTING IN YORKSHIRE: LATE NEOLITHIC ANIMAL CONSUMPTION AT RUDSTON WOLD
Authors: ROWLEY‐CONWY PETER , OWEN ANDREW C.
Published: October 2011

We consider (a) feasting, and (b) the formal deposition of feasting detritus, with regard to the Late Neolithic pits on Rudston Wold. Pigs are common, as in most Grooved Ware assemblages, but we suggest that cattle may have played a proportionately greater role in eastern and northern England. Claimed ‘aurochs’ from the site are in fact misidentified domestic cattle; hardly any wild animals are present. Some aspects of the assemblage support the suggestion that the animals were consumed during feasts, although these were on a much smaller scale than those seen at major Grooved Ware monuments. There is no support for the suggestion that the pits saw formal or ‘structured’ deposition.
Using sighting records to infer extinction in three endemic Argentinean marsupial frogs
Authors: Akmentins M. S. , Pereyra L. C. , Vaira M.
Published: October 2011

Three species of marsupial frogs of the genus Gastrotheca are at the forefront of amphibian conservation concern in Argentina. Most of the data available on these amphibian species in the country are in the form of museum collections. In this study, we use the recent rediscovery of G. gracilis to test the applicability of a series of probabilistic methods and a trend analysis to analyse the sighting records in the marsupial frog species of Argentina, and to assess the probability that G. christinani and G. chrysosticta are still extant. The results suggest that the two marsupial frog species are still extant, but probably declining. Based on these results, we suggest as a precautionary measure to raise the actual conservation status of these marsupial frog species to Critically Endangered.
Neuritogenic activity of a genipin derivative in retinal ganglion cells is mediated by retinoic acid receptor β expression through nitric oxide/S‐nitrosylation signaling
Authors: Koriyama Yoshiki , Takagi Yusuke , Chiba Kenzo , Yamazaki Matsumi , Arai Kunizo , Matsukawa Toru , Suzuki Hirokazu , Sugitani Kayo , Kagechika Hiroyuki , Kato Satoru
Published: October 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 10.1111/j.1471‐4159.2011.07533.x

Genipin, a herbal iridoid, is known to have both neuroprotective and neuritogenic activity in neuronal cell lines. As it is structurally similar to tetrahydrobiopterin, its activity is believed to be nitric oxide (NO)‐dependent. We previously proposed a novel neuroprotective activity of a genipin derivative, (1R)‐isoPropyloxygenipin (IPRG001), whereby it reduces oxidative stress in RGC‐5, a neuronal precursor cell line of retinal origin through protein S‐nitrosylation. In the present study, we investigated another neuritogenic property of IPRG001 in RGC‐5 cells and retinal explant culture where in we focused on the NO‐cGMP‐dependent and protein S‐nitrosylation pathways. IPRG001 stimulated neurite outgrowth in RGC‐5 cells and retinal explant culture through NO‐dependent signaling, but not NO‐dependent cGMP signaling. Neurite outgrowth with IPRG001 requires retinoic acid receptor β (RARβ) expression, which is suppressed by an RAR blocking agent and siRNA inhibition. Thereby, we hypothesized that RARβ expression is mediated by protein S‐nitrosylation. S‐nitrosylation of histone deacetylase 2 is a key mechanism in chromatin remodeling leading to transcriptional gene activation. We found a parallelism between S‐nitrosylation of histone diacetylase 2 and the induction of RARβ expression with IPRG001 treatment. The both neuroprotective and neuritogenic activities of genipin could be a new target for the regeneration of retinal ganglion cells after glaucomatous conditions.
Definition of priority areas for soil protection at a continental scale
Authors: Kibblewhite M. G.
Published: October 2011

Resources for achieving better soil protection are limited and need to be effectively targeted. Spatial variability is high for soil types and related quality and for the risk of degradation because of the threats of organic matter decline, erosion, compaction and salinization. A framework is presented for mapping priority areas for soil protection based on assessing where there is greater risk of degradation and evaluating its acceptability. A conceptual model is proposed which links anthropogenic hazards, threats and the risk of degradation with soil functions. It is recommended that a set of test areas is defined according to dominant soil types, and the probabilities of changes to soil properties relevant to soil functions are then estimated. The risk of exceeding a particular degradation threshold within these test areas can then be assessed and assigned to risk categories to provide the basis for the identification of priority areas.
Disperse ink‐jet inks: properties and application to polyester fibre
Authors: Kosolia Chrysavgi Th , Tsatsaroni Eforia G , Nikolaidis Nikolaos F
Published: October 2011

Water‐based ink‐jet inks were prepared using press cake samples of two commercially available azo disperse dyes. The suitability of the inks for printing polyester fabric was evaluated via measurement of surface tension, conductivity, viscosity, pH and particle size distribution. Inks prepared by the proposed method fulfill most requirements for an ink‐jet ink depending on the colorant structure, the dispersing agent and the alcohol used. The inks were applied to polyester fabric by both printing and dyeing and the fastness of the ensuing coloured samples was assessed. The fastness properties of the dyed and printed polyester samples were found to be very good to excellent and generally meet accepted customer requirements. Oil‐in‐water microemulsions containing the same colorants were also prepared. Their properties, which are crucial to the suitability for ink‐jet ink, were compared with those of the conventionally prepared inks and were found to be improved, with the exception of conductivity, while surface tension remained within acceptable values.
Neurocutaneous Melanosis in Association with Proliferative Skin Nodules
Authors: Taboada‐Suárez Antonio , Brea‐García Beatriz , Suárez‐Peñaranda José Manuel , Couto‐González Ivan
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  We report the case of a 15‐year‐old boy with giant congenital melanocytic nevi on his back, buttocks, and rear of the two proximal thirds of his thighs, and neurocutaneous melanosis, diagnosed when he was 3 years old. Three melanocytic nodules were present in the giant nevi that were suspected to have malignant degeneration. A biopsy of these nodules was carried out, and histological study revealed benign proliferative melanocytic nodules within the giant congenital melanocytic nevi.
New Syndrome of Congenital Circumferential Skin Folds Associated with Multiple Congenital Anomalies
Authors: Basel‐Vanagaite Lina , Sprecher Eli , Gat Andrea , Merlob Paul , Albin‐Kaplanski Adi , Konen Osnat , Solomon Benjamin D. , Muenke Maximilian , Grzeschik Karl‐H. , Sirota Lea
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  Congenital circumferential skin folds can be found in individuals with no additional defects, as well as in patients with multiple congenital anomalies and developmental abnormalities. Current data point to etiological heterogeneity of syndromic cases. We describe a 7‐month‐old girl with a novel combination of symmetrical congenital circumferential skin folds, dysmorphic features, and multiple congenital abnormalities. Examination of the patient revealed symmetrical congenital circumferential skin folds and dysmorphic features, as well as multiple congenital anomalies including nasal pyriform aperture stenosis, ventricular septal defect, absent spleen, camptodactyly, and severe psychomotor retardation. Skin biopsy demonstrated subcutaneous fat extending into the superficial and deep reticular dermis. Sequencing of the CDON, SHH, ZIC2, SIX3, and TGIF genes (associated with holoprosencephaly) did not disclose pathogenic alterations. Extensive review of previously described cases of syndromic congenital circumferential skin folds did not reveal a similar combination of clinical and histopathological findings.
Congenital Miliaria Crystallina in a Term Neonate Born to a Mother with Chorioamnionitis
Authors: Arun Babu Thirunavukkarasu , Sharmila Vijayan
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  Miliaria crystallina (MC) is a self‐limiting, superficial obstruction of the eccrine sweat ducts with subsequent extravasation of sweat, resulting in rapidly surfacing, tiny, clear, noninflammatory vesicles. The disease is seen frequently in hot, humid, tropical climates and in the neonatal period, but congenital occurrence is rare. We report a case of congenital MC in a baby born to a mother with chorioamnionitis.
Cutis Tricolor Parvimaculata in Two Patients with Ring Chromosome 15 Syndrome
Authors: Boente María del Carmen , Bazan Cristina , Montanari Daniela
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  Two unrelated girls presented with multiple disseminated, paired, small café‐au‐lait spots and hypopigmented macules, suggesting didymosis (twin spotting). The girls also had growth retardation, microcephaly, hypertelorism, triangular facies, and a 46,XY, r(15) karyotype. The term cutis tricolor parvimaculata has been proposed to describe a twin spot phenomenon characterized by small, paired hypochromic and hyperchromic macules on a background of normal intermediate‐pigmented skin. It has been hypothesized that the underlying gene locus of this phenomenon is a hot spot for postzygotic recombination, resulting in multiple pigmentary twin spots. Future clinical research may show whether analogous “simple” twin‐spot phenotypes in the form of cutis tricolor parvimaculata may be considered a further cutaneous sign of the ring chromosome 15 syndrome.
Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenal Axis Suppression Related to Topical Glucocorticoid Therapy in a Child with Psoriatic Exfoliative Erythroderma
Authors: Campbell Lauren S. , Chevalier Michelle , Levy Richard A. , Rhodes Arthur
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  Exfoliative erythroderma is a rare presentation of psoriasis in children and adults. We report a 9‐year‐old girl with exfoliative erythroderma secondary to plaque‐type psoriasis who developed hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis suppression resulting from topical treatment with a medium‐potency glucocorticoid. This case emphasizes the need for awareness of this potentially life‐threatening complication of topical glucocorticoid use, particularly in patients who have significant compromise of barrier function secondary to widespread skin disease.
Prevalence of Cutaneous Findings in Spanish Neonates and Relationships to Obstetric and Parental Factors
Authors: RODRÍGUEZ‐GARCÍA CRISTINA , RODRÍGUEZ CRISTOBALINA , SÁNCHEZ ROSALBA , GONZÁLEZ‐HERNÁNDEZ SORAHAYA , PÉREZ‐ROBAYNA NURIA , GUIMERÁ FRANCISCO , AGUIRRE‐JAIME ARMANDO
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  Two hundred forty‐seven healthy newborns were investigated in a prospective cohort descriptive study. Information on phenotype and obstetric and parental history was collected. A positive association was found between erythema toxicum neonatorum and season of birth (spring and summer), whereas parental history of any skin disease was related to a lower frequency of this eruption.
Lindane Toxicity: A Comprehensive Review of the Medical Literature
Authors: Nolan Katherine , Kamrath Jacqueline , Levitt Jacob
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  Lindane is an organochloride pesticide, first introduced as a scabicide for human use in the 1950s (1). Because of its low cost and efficacy, it quickly became a first‐line treatment for scabies and head lice, but not long after its use became widespread, its safety was called into question, primarily regarding its neurotoxic effects. We intend to show through review of the literature and databases that lindane has been associated with numerous severe and fatal adverse reactions. This review will summarize 67 cases of adverse reactions and deaths associated with the medical use of lindane. Many of the most serious events and fatalities occurred in pediatric and geriatric populations. We concede that toxicity frequently arises from misuse, but labeled usage of lindane caused 43% of the serious adverse reactions of this review. Moreover, the numerous instances of lindane misuse elucidate the importance of clear labeling and instructions, especially with a product with a narrow therapeutic index. Therefore, this report attempts to elucidate the dangers of lindane as a medical treatment for scabies and head lice by providing a comprehensive review of all documented adverse drug reactions since its introduction.
Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada Syndrome in a 6‐Year‐Old Hispanic Boy1
Authors: Hernandez Claudia , LePoole Caroline , Tessler Howard H.
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  A 6‐year‐old Hispanic boy presented to the ophthalmology department with complaints of pain, photophobia, and blurry vision of both eyes. He was found to have bilateral granulomatous panuveitis, cataracts, and high intraocular pressures. He later developed multiple asymptomatic, ovoid, hypopigmented patches over the mid‐lumbosacral back. Biopsy of lesional skin was significant for low melanocyte counts and a mild lymphocytic infiltrate. The patient was diagnosed with Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada syndrome (VKH). This article reviews the literature regarding the cutaneous presentation of VKH.
Aplasia Cutis Congenita and Other Anomalies Associated with Methimazole Exposure During Pregnancy
Authors: RODRÍGUEZ‐GARCÍA CRISTINA , GONZÁLEZ‐HERNÁNDEZ SORAHAYA , HERNÁNDEZ‐MARTÍN ANGELA , PÉREZ‐ROBAYNA NURIA , SÁNCHEZ ROSALBA , TORRELO ANTONIO
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  Aplasia cutis congenita (ACC) is a congenital defect consisting of a circumscribed absence of skin that usually involves the scalp. The etiology is uncertain, and several teratogenic agents such as methimazole have been involved. We report two cases of ACC and other anomalies in newborns exposed to methimazole during pregnancy.
Low to Moderate Alcohol Intake During Pregnancy and Risk of Psychomotor Deficits
Authors: Bay Bjørn , Støvring Henrik , Wimberley Theresa , Denny Clark H. , Mortensen Erik L. , Eriksen Hanne‐Lise F. , Kesmodel Ulrik S.
Published: October 2011

Background:  To examine the effects of low to moderate alcohol consumption during pregnancy on child motor function at age 5.

Methods:  A prospective follow‐up study of 685 women and their children sampled from the Danish National Birth Cohort based on maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy. At 5 years of age, the children were tested with the “Movement Assessment Battery for Children” (MABC). Parental education, maternal IQ, prenatal maternal smoking, the child’s age at testing, and gender of child were considered core confounders, while the full model also controlled for prenatal maternal binge drinking episodes, age, maternal prepregnancy body mass index, parity, home environment, postnatal parental smoking, health status, and indicators for hearing and vision impairment.

Results:  There were no systematic or significant differences in motor function between children of mothers reporting low to moderate levels of average alcohol consumption during pregnancy and children of mothers who abstained.

Conclusions:  In this study, we found no systematic association between low to moderate maternal alcohol intake during pregnancy and child motor function at age 5.
Sourcing, Filtering, and Evaluating New Product Ideas: An Empirical Exploration of the Performance of Idea Markets
Authors: Soukhoroukova Arina , Spann Martin , Skiera Bernd
Published: October 2011

The proliferation of interconnectivity and interactivity through Internet‐based technologies enables new forms of support for new product development. This paper analyzes idea markets, which use widely distributed knowledge, the power of markets, and the Internet to support the crucial initial tasks of the new product development process, including the sourcing, filtering, and evaluation of new product ideas. Idea markets employ virtual stocks to represent new product ideas and allow participants to suggest and trade new product ideas in a virtual marketplace. This paper empirically explores the performance of idea markets in a real‐world field study at a large, high‐tech business‐to‐business company that includes more than 500 participants from 17 countries and features various idea sourcing tasks. The results indicate that idea markets are a feasible and promising method to support the fuzzy front end of the new product development process. Idea markets offer a platform and formal process to capture, select, and distribute ideas in an organization, which motivates employees to communicate their ideas to management. By effectively sourcing and contemporaneously filtering, idea markets help reduce the number of ideas brought to management's attention to those that seem worthy of further consideration. Because idea markets also have the ability to source many ideas, they can increase efficiency at the fuzzy front end of the new product development process.
When ShouldRD&Eand Marketing Collaborate? The Moderating Role of Exploration–Exploitation and Environmental Uncertainty
Authors: Calantone Roger , Rubera Gaia
Published: October 2011

Collaboration between research, development, and engineering (RD&E) and marketing has traditionally been regarded as beneficial for new product performance (NPP). However, some studies have pointed out the drawbacks of excessive collaboration. Because collaboration simultaneously presents costs and benefits that vary with conditions, a contingent view of managerial practices suggests that the optimal level of integration should vary according to some factors that indicate when high levels of collaboration are preferable to lower levels. Although the literature on the many different factors that may impact the desirable level of collaboration is abundant, only a few studies have investigated the role of the peculiar characteristics of the new products being developed. This is at odds with several calls for future research on the role of the characteristics of the new product. This paper investigates the moderating role of an explorative versus an exploitive innovation program. It also controls for the moderating role of environmental uncertainty, which has been traditionally considered a moderator of the relationship betweenRD&E–marketing collaboration and new product program performance.

The paper also investigates how a firm's innovation posture—a cultural trait—influences both directly and indirectly, via marketing's technical knowledge,RD&E–marketing collaboration. Indeed, several scholars have recognized that cultural differences create the main barrier betweenRD&Eand marketing. Hence, a firm's culture should have an impact on the cultural barriers between the two departments. Further, the firm's innovation posture affects the extent to which the departments have to share resources and exchange information. In their seminal work,Gupta,Raj, andWilemon argue that resource dependency is the main factor affecting the integration achieved betweenRD&Eand marketing. Hence, an analysis of a firm's innovation posture is required to gain a deeper understanding of the antecedents of the collaboration between the two departments.

The antecedents and effects ofRD&E–marketing collaboration are tested in a sample of 80 companies operating in theU.S. auto industry through partial least squares. The paper shows that the extent to which a company develops explorative rather than exploitative innovations is a better moderator than environmental uncertainty in the relationship betweenRD&E–marketing collaboration and new product program performance. This contradicts much previous literature and sheds light on a partially neglected construct in the new product development literature. Second, the paper demonstrates that firms with a more aggressive innovation posture tend to develop greater collaboration betweenRD&Eand marketing. Also, the marketing department tends to have a better understanding of theRD&Eprocesses and capabilities in companies with an aggressive innovation posture than in companies with a defensive one.