bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Periodic solar wind forcing due to recurrent coronal holes during 1996–2009 and its impact on Earth's geomagnetic and ionospheric properties during the extreme solar minimum
Authors: Tulasi Ram S. , Liu C. H. , Su S.‐Y.
Published: December 2010

Periodicities in the area of coronal hole (CH) regions on the solar disk and solar wind (SW) high‐speed streams (HSSs) have been studied, for the first time, during complete solar cycle 23 (SC 23) from 1996 to 2009 using solar EUV image data from the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory and STEREO satellites and ACE solar wind‐magnetic data. Both the SW velocity and the area of CH regions consistently exhibit large values during the declining phase and the minimum of SC23 (2003–2009) due to equatorward extended holes and/or low‐latitude isolated holes. Further, the SW velocity and CH area exhibit a greater tendency for subharmonic (13.5 and 9 day) periodicities during the declining phase and solar minimum. The response of Earths' geomagnetic and ionospheric properties to these periodicities associated with corotating interaction regions in SW HSSs is studied, with a focus on the extremely low‐solar‐activity period of 2008. Subharmonic oscillations in both day‐ and nightside ionospheric electron density are found to correlate well with oscillations in SW and Kp during 2008. The topside ionospheric response (above 350 km) appears to be dominated by changes in the plasma temperature and/or scale height and exhibits concurrent enhancements with the oscillations in geomagnetic activity during both day‐ and nighttime. However, the electron density response at altitudes between 200 and 350 km is dominated by changes in the neutral composition and exhibits significant latitudinal, local time, and seasonal variations. The results are discussed in light of equatorward wind perturbations during enhanced geomagnetic activity and summer‐to‐winter transequatorial neutral wind patterns.
Further study on the solar activity variation of daytime NmF2
Authors: Chen Yiding , Liu Libo
Published: December 2010

The ionosonde observations in the East Asia‐Australia sector are collected to further investigate the solar activity variation of daytime (0800 ∼ 1600 LT) NmF2. The linear increase rate of NmF2 with F10.7 at lower solar activity levels is remarkably dependent on latitude, season, and local time. The rate is largest in equinoxes (with an equinoctial asymmetry) and higher in the morning (afternoon) in local winter (summer) at geomagnetic midlatitudes; particularly, the maximum rates in local winter are obviously larger than those in local summer at northern midlatitudes. In the equatorial ionization anomaly (EIA) crest regions, the rates in equinoxes and December (June) solstice are remarkably higher than those in June (December) solstice at the northern (southern) EIA crest, and the rate grows from the morning sector to the afternoon sector. The variation trend of NmF2 with F10.7 also shows latitudinal, seasonal, and local time dependences. The saturation effect dominates in all seasons in the EIA regions; at midlatitudes, NmF2 nearly increases linearly with F10.7 in local winter so that a linear fit is a good approximation for NmF2 modeling, while the saturation effect still dominates in other seasons. The saturation effect is more significant in the afternoon, and the strongest saturation effect appears at the EIA crest latitudes in equinox afternoon. Discussions indicate that the variations of neutral atmosphere and hmF2 are responsible for the seasonal and local time dependences of the linear increase rate of NmF2 with F10.7 at midlatitudes, and the seasonal variation of neutral atmosphere is the primary reason for the seasonal dependence of the variation trend of NmF2 with F10.7, while dynamics processes are the more important factors controlling the linear increase rate and the variation trend of NmF2 with F10.7 at low latitudes. Furthermore, dynamics processes are important for the saturation effect, and the fountain effect is related to the strongest saturation effect appearing at the EIA crests.
Hydrodynamics in a gravel beach and its impact on the Exxon Valdez oil
Authors: Guo Qiaona , Li Hailong , Boufadel Michel C. , Sharifi Youness
Published: December 2010

This paper investigated the interaction of groundwater and seawater in a tidally influenced gravel beach. Field observations of water table, pore water salinity were performed. The two‐dimensional finite element model MARUN was used to simulate observed water table and salinity. Based on field observations and model calibrations, a two‐layered beach structure was identified which is characterized by a high‐permeability surface layer underlain by a low‐permeability lower layer. The salt wedge seaward of the low tide line was almost invariant in comparison with the strong fluctuations of the salinity plume in the surface layer of the intertidal zone. The presence of the two layers prevented the presence of a freshwater discharge “tube” between the upper saline plume and salt wedge. This is in contrast with the previous works where freshwater discharge tube was observed. The tide‐induced submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) was estimated at 9 m3 d−1 m−1, a large value that is probably due to the large tidal range of ∼4.8 m and the very permeable surface layer. The freshwater‐seawater dynamics revealed here may provide new insights into the complexity, intensity, and time scales of mixing between fresh groundwater and seawater in tidal beaches. The simulated water table of the beach was higher than the interface between the surface layer and the lower layer, which prevented Exxon Valdez oil from penetrating into the lower layer in 1989.
Hydrodynamic modeling of Lake Ontario: An intercomparison of three models
Authors: Huang Anning , Rao Yerubandi R. , Lu Youyu , Zhao Jun
Published: December 2010

The solutions of three lake hydrodynamic models, namely, Princeton Ocean Model (POM), Canadian Version of Diecast Model, and Estuary, Lake, and Coastal Ocean Model, are compared with each other and with observations in Lake Ontario. The models have the same horizontal resolution and are forced with meteorological observations during mid‐April to early October of 2006. The three models obtained qualitatively similar results, although they have differences in physical parameters, numerical scheme, and vertical discretization. Comparison with observations shows that the models can reproduce the time evolution of lake surface temperature reasonably well. All the models produced shallower mixed layers than observations at midlake stations, causing significant errors in simulating the temperatures in the thermocline but performed better near the coast. All the models also reproduced the characteristics of the time variability of the surface currents but quantitatively had substantial errors at subsurface levels. The three models all reproduced the observed spatial pattern of the summer mean near‐surface temperatures, with upwelling (colder temperatures) along the north shore and downwelling (warmer temperatures) along the southeastern shore. The models simulated a lake‐wide cyclonic circulation occupying a large portion of the lake, consistent with the observed climatology, but showed distinct differences in simulating the smaller gyre in the western corner of the lake. Although POM has half‐vertical layers compared to z level models, its performance is comparable or slightly better than other models in most of the measures. During a strong easterly wind event, the performances of the models are similar in simulating the upwelling and downwelling processes in the lake and agree with the expected dynamic response to the strong wind forcing.
Evolution of temperature, O3, CO, and N2O profiles during the exceptional 2009 Arctic major stratospheric warming as observed by lidar and millimeter‐wave spectroscopy at Thule (76.5°N, 68.8°W), Greenland
Authors: Di Biagio Claudia , Muscari Giovanni , di Sarra Alcide , de Zafra Robert L. , Eriksen Paul , Fiocco Giorgio , Fiorucci Irene , Fuà Daniele
Published: December 2010

The 2009 Arctic sudden stratospheric warming (SSW) was the most intense event of this kind ever observed. Unique ground‐based measurements of middle atmospheric profiles for temperature, O3, CO, and N2O obtained at Thule (76.5°N, 68.8°W), Greenland, in the period January to early March are used to show the evolution of the 2009 SSW in the region of its maximum intensity. The first sign of the SSW was detected at θ ∼ 2000 K on 19 January, when a rapid decrease in CO mixing ratio took place. The first evidence of a temperature increase was observed at the same level on 22 January, the earliest date on which lidar measurements reached above ∼50 km. The warming propagated from the upper to the lower stratosphere in 7 days and the record maximum temperature of 289 K was observed between 1300 and 1500 K potential temperature on 22 January. A strong vortex splitting was associated with the SSW. Stratospheric backward trajectories indicate that air masses arriving at Thule during the warming peak underwent a rapid compression and an intense adiabatic warming of up to 50 K. The rapid advection of air from the extratropics was also occasionally observed to produce elevated values of N2O mixing ratio. Starting in mid‐February the temperature profile and the N2O mixing ratio returned to the prewarming values in the mid and upper stratosphere, indicating the reformation of the vortex at these levels. In late winter, vertical descent from starting altitudes of ∼60 km is estimated from CO profiles to be 0.25 ± 0.05 km/day.
Modeling the effects of hydrology on ecosystem respiration at Mer Bleue bog
Authors: Dimitrov Dimitre D. , Grant Robert F. , Lafleur Peter M. , Humphreys Elyn R.
Published: December 2010

Theecosysmodel was applied to examine the effects of peatland hydrology on soil respiration and ecosystem respiration at Mer Bleue peatland, Ontario, Canada. It was hypothesized that a decrease in near‐surface microbial respiration in peat hummocks resulting from water table (WT) drawdown and subsequent desiccation of the uppermost peat would offset an increase of soil respiration at depth with improved aeration (respiration offsetting mechanism). In contrast, shallower water table in hollows would not allow near‐surface desiccation to offset increased soil respiration at depth during drying. However, increased hollow soil respiration with WT drawdown would be offset by decreased aboveground moss respiration with near‐surface desiccation in hummocks. Model results for microbial respiration were tested against independent laboratory experiments and ecosystem respiration against hourly eddy‐covariance measurements of bog CO2exchange from 2000 to 2004. The respiration offsetting mechanism modeled in hummocks resulted in CO2production of 0.85μmol CO2m−2s−1with both low (67 cm) and intermediate (38 cm) water tables in the summers of 2001 and 2004, and of 0.81μmol CO2m−2s−1and 0.95μmol CO2m−2s−1with high (31 cm) and intermediate (41 cm) water tables in the summers of 2000 and 2001. Ecosystem respiration was 2.01μmol CO2m−2s−1and 2.23μmol CO2m−2s−1, and 2.62μmol CO2m−2s−1and 2.58μmol CO2m−2s−1, respectively, during these periods. Our results suggest that ecosystem respiration at Mer Bleue varied little with water table, but this behavior may not be typical for other peatlands.
A new capillary and thin film flow model for predicting the hydraulic conductivity of unsaturated porous media
Authors: Lebeau Marc , Konrad Jean‐Marie
Published: December 2010

Most classical predictive models of unsaturated hydraulic conductivity conceptualize the pore space as either bundles of cylindrical tubes of uniform size or assemblies of cylindrical capillary tubes of various sizes. As such, these models have assumed that liquid configuration is the same in both the wet and dry ranges and that a single concept can be used to describe water transport over the entire range of matric head. Yet theoretical and experimental findings suggest that water transport in wet media, which mostly occurs in water saturated capillaries, is quite different from that in dry media, which occurs in thin liquid films. Following these observations, this paper proposes a new model for predicting the hydraulic conductivity of porous media that accounts for both capillary and thin film flow processes. As with other predictive models, a mathematical relationship is established between hydraulic conductivity and the water retention function. The model is mathematically simple and can easily be integrated into existing numerical models of water transport in unsaturated soils. In sample calculations, the model provided very good agreement with hydraulic conductivity data over the entire range of matric head. Two other well‐supported models, on the other hand, were unable to conform to the experimental data.
Transpiration in plants: A thermodynamic imperative
Authors: Hernandez Candia Carmen Noemi , Michaelian Karo
Published: December 2010

In this article we determine the importance of transpiration in plants at three different levels of organization: the plant itself, the ecosystem, and the biosphere, all in terms of entropy production due to transpiration. We propose that transpiration is a thermodynamic imperative rather than a physiological burden for the plant. Plants have not replaced their prevalent metabolism C3 with those of less loss of water, C4 or CAM. We argue that the fact that plants retain higher rates of transpiration along evolution could be explained using thermodynamic criteria.
Association of the LCT‐13910C>T Polymorphism With Obesity and Its Modulation by Dairy Products in a Mediterranean Population
Authors: Corella Dolores , Arregui Maria , Coltell Oscar , Portolés Olga , Guillem‐Sáiz Patricia , Carrasco Paula , Sorlí Jose V. , Ortega‐Azorín Carolina , González Jose I. , Ordovás Jose M.
Published: December 2010

The −13910C>T polymorphism (rs4988235) upstream from the lactase (LCT) gene, strongly associated with lactase persistence (LP) in Europeans, is emerging as a new candidate for obesity. We aimed to analyze the association of this polymorphism with obesity‐related variables and its modulation by dairy product intake in an elderly population. We studied 940 high‐cardiovascular risk Spanish subjects (aged 67 ± 7 years). Dairy product consumption was assessed by a validated questionnaire. Anthropometric variables were directly measured, and metabolic syndrome‐related variables were obtained. Prevalence of genotypes was: 38.0% CC (lactase nonpersistent (LNP)), 45.7% CT, and 16.3% TT. The CC genotype was not associated with lower milk or dairy product consumption in the whole population. Only in women was dairy intake significantly lower in CC subjects. The most important association was obtained with anthropometric measurements. CC individuals had lower weight (P = 0.032), lower BMI (29.7 ± 4.2 vs. 30.6 ± 4.2 kg/m2; P = 0.003) and lower waist circumference (101.1 ± 11.8 vs. 103.5 ± 11.5 cm; P = 0.005) than T‐allele carriers. Obesity risk was also significantly higher in T‐allele carriers than in CC individuals (odds ratio (OR): 1.38; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.05–1.81; P = 0.01), and remained significant even after adjustment for sex, age, diabetes, physical activity, and energy intake. However, in subgroup analysis, these associations were found to be significant only among those consuming moderate or high lactose intakes (>8 g/day). No significant associations with lipids, glucose, or blood pressure were obtained after adjustment for BMI. In conclusion, despite not finding marked differences in dairy product consumption, this polymorphism was strongly associated with BMI and obesity and modulated by lactose intake in this Mediterranean population.
ThePopulusClass III HD ZIP,popREVOLUTA, Influences Cambium Initiation and Patterning of Woody Stems
Authors: Robischon Marcel , Du Juan , Miura Eriko , Groover Andrew
Published: December 2010

The secondary growth of a woody stem requires the formation of a vascular cambium at an appropriate position and proper patterning of the vascular tissues derived from the cambium. Class III homeodomain-leucine zipper (HD ZIP) transcription factors have been implicated in polarity determination and patterning in lateral organs and primary vascular tissues and in the initiation and function of shoot apical meristems. We report here the functional characterization of a Populus class III HD ZIP gene, popREVOLUTA (PRE), that demonstrates another role for class III HD ZIPs in regulating the development of cambia and secondary vascular tissues. PRE is orthologous to Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) REVOLUTA and is expressed in both the shoot apical meristem and in the cambial zone and secondary vascular tissues. Transgenic Populus expressing a microRNA-resistant form of PRE presents unstable phenotypic abnormalities affecting both primary and secondary growth. Surprisingly, phenotypic changes include abnormal formation of cambia within cortical parenchyma that can produce secondary vascular tissues in reverse polarity. Genes misexpressed in PRE mutants include transcription factors and auxin-related genes previously implicated in class III HD ZIP functions during primary growth. Together, these results suggest that PRE plays a fundamental role in the initiation of the cambium and in regulating the patterning of secondary vascular tissues.
Distribution of Callose Synthase, Cellulose Synthase, and Sucrose Synthase in Tobacco Pollen Tube Is Controlled in Dissimilar Ways by Actin Filaments and Microtubules
Authors: Cai Giampiero , Faleri Claudia , Del Casino Cecilia , Emons Anne Mie C. , Cresti Mauro
Published: December 2010

Callose and cellulose are fundamental components of the cell wall of pollen tubes and are probably synthesized by distinct enzymes, callose synthase and cellulose synthase, respectively. We examined the distribution of callose synthase and cellulose synthase in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) pollen tubes in relation to the dynamics of actin filaments, microtubules, and the endomembrane system using specific antibodies to highly conserved peptide sequences. The role of the cytoskeleton and membrane flow was investigated using specific inhibitors (latrunculin B, 2,3-butanedione monoxime, taxol, oryzalin, and brefeldin A). Both enzymes are associated with the plasma membrane, but cellulose synthase is present along the entire length of pollen tubes (with a higher concentration at the apex) while callose synthase is located in the apex and in distal regions. In longer pollen tubes, callose synthase accumulates consistently around callose plugs, indicating its involvement in plug synthesis. Actin filaments and endomembrane dynamics are critical for the distribution of callose synthase and cellulose synthase, showing that enzymes are transported through Golgi bodies and/or vesicles moving along actin filaments. Conversely, microtubules appear to be critical in the positioning of callose synthase in distal regions and around callose plugs. In contrast, cellulose synthases are only partially coaligned with cortical microtubules and unrelated to callose plugs. Callose synthase also comigrates with tubulin by Blue Native-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Membrane sucrose synthase, which expectedly provides UDP-glucose to callose synthase and cellulose synthase, binds to actin filaments depending on sucrose concentration; its distribution is dependent on the actin cytoskeleton and the endomembrane system but not on microtubules.
Influence of pre‐anaesthetic medication on target propofol concentration using a ‘Diprifusor’ TCI system during ambulatory surgery
Authors: Struys M. , Versichelen L. , Rolly G.
Published: December 2010

The effects of pre‐anaesthetic medication on target propofol concentration, induction dose, time to induction, and discomfort on infusion were studied in 45 female patients undergoing ambulatory gynaecological procedures using ‘Diprifusor’ target controlled infusion of propofol. The patients were randomly allocated to receive either no premedication (group 1) or premedication with diazepam alone (group 2) or in combination with alfentanil (group 3). Induction was more successful in premedicated than unpremedicated patients with an initial target propofol concentration of 4 μg.ml−1 (87% in group 2 and 93% in group 3 vs. 38% in group 1, p < 0.01). Premedication was also associated with the requirement of a lower mean target concentration for induction, a lower induction dose and a shorter time to induction. There were no significant between‐group differences in discomfort on infusion or target concentration during maintenance. For short ambulatory procedures, the recommended initial target concentration of propofol is 4 μg.ml−1 in premedicated and 6 μg.ml−1 in unpremedicated patients.
TCI: supplementation and drug interactions
Authors: Vuyk J.
Published: December 2010

The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions between propofol and adjuvant agents have increasingly been recognised as clinically important and the improved knowledge of these interactions is being used to optimise the quality of intravenous anaesthesia. It is now known that propofol interferes with opioid metabolism, thereby increasing the plasma concentrations of the opioids, while opioids such as alfentanil increase propofol concentrations by reducing both the distribution and clearance of propofol. The pharmacokinetic interactions, however, are of relatively minor clinical importance compared with pharmacodynamic interactions. The pharmacodynamic interaction between propofol and other sedative agents, or one of the synthetic opioids, is synergistic. From the pharmacodynamic interaction data, optimal target propofol–opioid concentrations and optimal infusion regimens have been developed that ensure adequate anaesthesia in 50% and 95% of patients with the most rapid recovery possible. These optimal target propofol concentrations and infusion regimens are affected by the opioid with which propofol is combined, as well as the duration of infusion.
Meta‐analysis of results from quantitative trait loci mapping studies on pig chromosome 4
Authors: Silva K. M. , Bastiaansen J. W. M. , Knol E. F. , Merks J. W. M. , Lopes P. S. , Guimarães S. E. F. , van Arendonk J. A. M.
Published: December 2010

Meta‐analysis of results from multiple studies could lead to more precise quantitative trait loci (QTL) position estimates compared to the individual experiments. As the raw data from many different studies are not readily available, the use of results from published articles may be helpful. In this study, we performed a meta‐analysis of QTL on chromosome 4 in pig, using data from 25 separate experiments. First, a meta‐analysis was performed for individual traits: average daily gain and backfat thickness. Second, a meta‐analysis was performed for the QTL of three traits affecting loin yield: loin eye area, carcass length and loin meat weight. Third, 78 QTL were selected from 20 traits that could be assigned to one of three broad categories: carcass, fatness or growth traits. For each analysis, the number of identified meta‐QTL was smaller than the number of initial QTL. The reduction in the number of QTL ranged from 71% to 86% compared to the total number before the meta‐analysis. In addition, the meta‐analysis reduced the QTL confidence intervals by as much as 85% compared to individual QTL estimates. The reduction in the confidence interval was greater when a large number of independent QTL was included in the meta‐analysis. Meta‐QTL related to growth and fatness were found in the same region as the FAT1 region. Results indicate that the meta‐analysis is an efficient strategy to estimate the number and refine the positions of QTL when QTL estimates are available from multiple populations and experiments. This strategy can be used to better target further studies such as the selection of candidate genes related to trait variation.
Exploration of relationships between production and fertility traits in dairy cattle via association studies of SNPs within candidate genes derived by expression profiling
Authors: Pimentel E. C. G. , Bauersachs S. , Tietze M. , Simianer H. , Tetens J. , Thaller G. , Reinhardt F. , Wolf E. , König S.
Published: December 2010

The objective of this work was to integrate findings from functional genomics studies with genome‐wide association studies for fertility and production traits in dairy cattle. Association analyses of production and fertility traits with SNPs located within or close to 170 candidate genes derived from two gene expression studies and from the literature were performed. Data from 2294 Holstein bulls genotyped for 39557 SNPs were used. A total of 111 SNPs were located on chromosomal segments covered by a candidate gene. Allele substitution effects for each SNP were estimated using a mixed model with a fixed effect of marker and a random polygenic effect. Assumed covariance was derived either from marker or from pedigree information. Results from the analysis with the kinship matrix built from marker genotypes were more conservative than from the analysis with the pedigree‐derived relationship matrix. From sixteen SNPs with significant effects on both classes of traits, ten provided evidence of an antagonistic relationship between productivity and fertility. However, we found four SNPs with favourable effects on fertility and on yield traits, one SNP with favourable effects on fertility and percentage traits, and one SNP with antagonistic effects on two fertility traits. While most quantitative genetic studies have proven genetic antagonisms between yield and functional traits, improvements in both production and functionality may be possible when focusing on a few relevant SNPs. Investigations combining input from quantitative genetics and functional genomics with association analysis may be applied for the identification of such SNPs.
Inverse relationship between leukaemic cell burden and plasma concentrations of daunorubicin in patients with acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Bogason Alex , Quartino Angelica L. , Lafolie Pierre , Masquelier Michèle , Karlsson Mats O. , Paul Christer , Gruber Astrid , Vitols Sigurd
Published: December 2010

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THE SUBJECT

• In vitro studies show that daunorubicin (DNR) cytotoxicity decreases with increasing cell density because of a high cellular uptake and depletion of drug in the medium.

• It is not known whether such an effect also occurs in vivo.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

• We have shown that a large leukaemic cell burden lowers the plasma concentration of DNR in patients with acute myeloid leukaemia.

• Our analysis supports that a large leukaemic cell burden increases the central volume of distribution for DNR.

• Our study indicates that a dose adjustment of DNR may be of importance in acute myeloid leukaemia patients with high white blood cell counts.

AIMS It has been shown that the cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of anthracyclines decrease with increasing cell density in vitro, an event termed ‘the inocculum effect’. It is not known whether such an effect occurs in vivo. In this study the relationships between white blood cell (WBC) count, plasma and cellular concentrations of daunorubicin (DNR) in patients with acute myeloid leukaemia were investigated.

METHODS Plasma and mononuclear blood cells were isolated from peripheral blood from 40 patients with acute myeloid leukaemia at end of infusion (time 1 h), 5 and 24 h following the first DNR infusion. DNR concentrations were determined by high‐pressure liquid chromatography and related to the WBC count at diagnosis. A population pharmacokinetic model was used to estimate the correlations between baseline WBC count, volume of distribution and clearance of DNR.

RESULTS A clear but weak inverse relationship between the baseline WBC count and plasma concentrations of DNR (r2 = 0.11, P < 0.05) at time 1 was found. Furthermore, a clear relationship between baseline WBC count and DNR central volume of distribution using population pharmacokinetic modelling (dOFV 4.77, P < 0.05) was also noted. Analysis of plasma DNR and the metabolite daunorubicinol (DOL) concentrations in patients with a high WBC count support that the low DNR/DOL concentrations are due a distribution effect.

CONCLUSION This study shows that the leukaemic cell burden influences the plasma concentrations of anthracyclines. Further studies are needed to explore if patients with high a WBC count may require higher doses of anthracyclines.
Health‐related quality of life in pediatric liver transplant recipients compared with other chronic disease groups
Authors: Limbers Christine A. , Neighbors Katie , Martz Karen , Bucuvalas John C. , Webb Thomas , Varni James W. , Alonso Estella M. ,   on behalf of the Studies of Pediatric Liver Transplantation (SPLIT) Functional Outcomes Group (FOG)
Published: December 2010

Limbers CA, Neighbors K, Martz K, Bucuvalas JC, Webb T, Varni JW, Alonso EM, on behalf of the Studies of Pediatric Liver Transplantation (SPLIT) Functional Outcomes Group (FOG). Health‐related quality of life in pediatric liver transplant recipients compared with other chronic disease groups. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15: 245–253. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  This cross‐sectional, multicenter cohort study compares the level of HRQOL of pediatric LT recipients to children with other chronic health conditions. LT sample included 873 children who survived at least 12 months following LT. Six chronic disease samples were compiled from numerous studies, including over 800 patients with JRA, type 1 diabetes, cancer in remission, cardiac disease, end‐stage renal disease, and inflammatory bowel disease. Generic HRQOL was measured from both the parental and patient perspective using the PedsQL™ 4.0 Generic Core Scales. Pediatric LT patients reported better physical health than children with JRA. According to parents, pediatric LT recipients had better HRQOL than children on renal dialysis on all domains except school functioning. Across all domains but emotional functioning, pediatric LT recipients reported significantly lower HRQOL than children with type 1 diabetes. Overall, pediatric LT patients reported HRQOL comparable to that of children who had undergone renal transplantation and patients with cancer in remission. Pediatric LT patients manifested impaired HRQOL similar to that of children with chronic diseases and these data suggest that they face ongoing challenges that warrant monitoring and indicate a need for interventions to improve their HRQOL.
Japanese Guidelines for the Management of Respiratory Infectious Diseases in Children 2007 with focus on pneumonia
Authors: Uehara Suzuko , Sunakawa Keisuke , Eguchi Hiroyuki , Ouchi Kazunobu , Okada Kenji , Kurosaki Tomomichi , Suzuki Hiroshi , Tsutsumi Hiroyuki , Haruta Tsunekazu , Mitsuda Toshihiro , Yamazaki Tsutomu
Published: December 2010

Members of the Japanese Society of Pediatric Pulmonology and the Japanese Society for Pediatric Infectious Diseases developed the Guidelines for the Management of Respiratory Infectious Diseases in Children with the objective of facilitating the appropriate diagnosis and treatment of childhood respiratory infections. To date, a first edition (2004) and a revised edition (2007) have been issued. Many problems complicate the diagnosis of the pathogens responsible for bronchopulmonary infections in children. The Guidelines were the first pediatric guidelines in the world to recommend treatment with antimicrobials suited to causative pathogens as identified from cultures of sputum and other clinical specimens collected from infection sites and satisfying assessment criteria. The major causative microorganisms for pneumonia in infants and children were revealed to be Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Mycoplasma pneumoniae. This manuscript describes the Guidelines for the Management of Respiratory Infectious Diseases in Children in Japan 2007, with a focus on pneumonia.
Sleep characteristics of young children in Japan: Internet study and comparison with other Asian countries
Authors: Kohyama Jun , Mindell Jodi A. , Sadeh Avi
Published: December 2010

Background:  A recent international Internet‐based study of young children (birth to 36 months) found that total sleep duration in Japan was the shortest among 17 countries/regions. The present study compared features of children's sleep in Japan relative to those in other Asian countries/regions.

Methods:  Parents of 872 infants and toddlers in Japan (48.6% boys), and parents of 20 455 infants and toddlers in 11 other Asian countries/regions (48.1% boys; China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam) completed an Internet‐based expanded version of the Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire.

Results:  Young children in Japan exhibited significantly fewer nocturnal wakings and shorter daytime sleep in comparison with other Asian countries/regions. Although the former finding was apparent in all age groups, the reduced duration of daytime sleep in Japan was not present until after 3 months of age. Interestingly, sleep problems were reported by significantly fewer parents in Japan compared with those in other Asian countries/regions, although parents in Japan reported significantly more difficulty at bedtime.

Conclusions:  The short sleep duration of young children in Japan is largely due to a relatively short duration of daytime sleep. Significant differences in sleep characteristics in Japan relative to other Asian regions were found primarily after 3 months of age. Future studies should further explore the underlying causes and the potential impacts of these sleep differences.
Nail psoriasis: a retrospective study on the effectiveness of systemic treatments (classical and biological therapy)
Authors: Sánchez‐Regaña M , Sola‐Ortigosa J , Alsina‐Gibert M , Vidal‐Fernández M , Umbert‐Millet P
Published: December 2010

Background  Nail psoriasis represents a challenge for specialists. There is no comparative study of systemic treatment’s effectiveness at this site. Objective: Evaluate the response of nail psoriasis to classical and biological therapy and to compare the effectiveness and safety of the different treatments.

Methods  We performed a retrospective study of 84 patients with moderate–severe psoriasis seen at our Department between January 2006 and January 2009.

Results  Psoriasis was severe in 53.4%. In 75% of cases, the fingernails were affected, and the mixed form was the most frequently subtype. The mean baseline scores on the PASI and the NAPSI were 23.12 and 14.7 respectively; the correlation between the two scores fell at weeks 12 and 24 but had risen again at week 48. The baseline NAPSI score tended to be lower in women and significantly higher in patients over 65 years of age, family history of psoriasis, severe psoriasis and nail matrix involvement. In our series, 58.3% received classical treatment (acitretin, methotrexate, cyclosporin, PUVA, NUVB, REPUVA, RENUVB) and 41.7% received biological treatment (infliximab, efalizumab, etanercept, adalimumab).Significant reductions were found (P < 0.05) in the mean NAPSI scores at 12, 24 and 48 weeks with all the antipsoriatic agents except NUVB; significantly greater with cyclosporine (P < 0.01) and biological as infliximab and adalimumab at 12 and 24 weeks (differences between treatments disappeared at 48 weeks).

Conclusion  The response to treatment is slower in the nail lesions than in the skin lesions. The improvement of nail psoriasis is significant both with the classical treatments significantly higher in cyclosporin; and biological treatment (infliximab and adalimumab at 12 and 24 weeks).
Exploring barriers to reflection and learning – developing a perspective lens
Authors: Rix Jonathan , Paige‐Smith Alice
Published: December 2010

The need for reflection is widely written about and positioned as a key aspect of continuing professional development. This paper examines the manner in which practitioners are encouraged to be reflective within the English system and the barriers they face. It questions whether such a complex, reaffirming system can allow for genuine critical engagement, how we come to buy into our models of thinking and their impact upon our understanding of learners and their skills. The paper highlights the importance of reflection particularly in relation to issues of inclusion, and explores the challenges using recent ethnographic research with families of young children with a label of Down syndrome. It challenges our focus upon the individual and through a socio‐cultural model of development demonstrates the need for practitioners to reflect upon the developing context which we create and out of which we are created.
Fenamates as TRP channel blockers: mefenamic acid selectively blocks TRPM3
Authors: Klose Chihab , Straub Isabelle , Riehle Marc , Ranta Felicia , Krautwurst Dietmar , Ullrich Susanne , Meyerhof Wolfgang , Harteneck Christian
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSEFenamates are N‐phenyl‐substituted anthranilic acid derivatives clinically used as non‐steroid anti‐inflammatory drugs in pain treatment. Reports describing fenamates as tools to interfere with cellular volume regulation attracted our attention based on our interest in the role of the volume‐modulated transient receptor potential (TRP) channels TRPM3 and TRPV4.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHFirstly, we measured the blocking potencies and selectivities of fenamates on TRPM3 and TRPV4 as well as TRPC6 and TRPM2 by Ca2+imaging in the heterologous HEK293 cell system. Secondly, we further investigated the effects of mefenamic acid on cytosolic Ca2+and on the membrane voltage in single HEK293 cells that exogenously express TRPM3. Thirdly, in insulin‐secreting INS‐1E cells, which endogenously express TRPM3, we validated the effect of mefenamic acid on cytosolic Ca2+and insulin secretion.

KEY RESULTSWe identified and characterized mefenamic acid as a selective and potent TRPM3 blocker, whereas other fenamate structures non‐selectively blocked TRPM3, TRPV4, TRPC6 and TRPM2.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONSThis study reveals that mefenamic acid selectively inhibits TRPM3‐mediated calcium entry. This selectivity was further confirmed using insulin‐secreting cells. KATPchannel‐dependent increases in cytosolic Ca2+and insulin secretion were not blocked by mefenamic acid, but the selective stimulation of TRPM3‐dependent Ca2+entry and insulin secretion induced by pregnenolone sulphate were inhibited. However, the physiological regulator of TRPM3 in insulin‐secreting cells remains to be elucidated, as well as the conditions under which the inhibition of TRPM3 can impair pancreatic β‐cell function. Our results strongly suggest mefenamic acid is the most selective fenamate to interfere with TRPM3 function.
Peripheral antinociceptive effects of inhibitors of monoacylglycerol lipase in a rat model of inflammatory pain
Authors: Guindon Josée , Guijarro Ana , Piomelli Daniele , Hohmann Andrea G.
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSEThe endocannabinoid 2‐arachidonoylglycerol (2‐AG) is degraded primarily by monoacylglycerol lipase (MGL). We compared peripheral antinociceptive effects of JZL184, a novel irreversible MGL inhibitor, with the reversible MGL‐preferring inhibitor URB602 and exogenous 2‐AG in rats.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHNociception in the formalin test was assessed in groups receiving dorsal paw injections of vehicle, JZL184 (0.001–300 µg), URB602 (0.001–600 µg), 2‐AG (ED50), 2‐AG + JZL184 (at their ED50), 2‐AG + URB602 (at their ED50), AM251 (80 µg), AM251 + JZL184 (10 µg), AM630 (25 µg) or AM630 + JZL184 (10 µg). Effects of MGL inhibitors on endocannabinoid accumulation and on activities of endocannabinoid‐metabolizing enzymes were assessed.

KEY RESULTSIntra‐paw administration of JZL184, URB602 and 2‐AG suppressed early and late phases of formalin pain. JZL184 and URB602 acted through a common mechanism. JZL184 (ED50Phase 1: 0.06 ± 0.028; Phase 2: 0.03 ± 0.011 µg) produced greater antinociception than URB602 (ED50Phase 1: 120 ± 51.3; Phase 2: 66 ± 23.9 µg) or 2‐AG. Both MGL inhibitors produced additive antinociceptive effects when combined with 2‐AG. Antinociceptive effects of JZL184, like those of URB602, were blocked by cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) antagonists. JZL184 suppressed MGL but not fatty‐acid amide hydrolase or N‐arachidonoyl‐phosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase D activitiesex vivo. URB602 increased hind paw 2‐AG without altering anandamide levels.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONSMGL inhibitors suppressed formalin‐induced pain through peripheral CB1and CB2receptor mechanisms. MGL inhibition increased paw skin 2‐AG accumulation to mediate these effects. MGL represents a target for the treatment of inflammatory pain.

LINKED ARTICLESThis article is part of a themed issue on Cannabinoids in Biology and Medicine. To view the other articles in this issue visithttp://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2011.163.issue‐7
Dopaminergic mechanisms of reinstatement of MDMA‐seeking behaviour in rats
Authors: Schenk S , Gittings D , Colussi‐Mas J
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Animal models of drug‐seeking suggest that exposure to cues associated with self‐administered drugs and drug primes might precipitate relapse via activation of central dopaminergic substrates.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The effects of priming injections of dopamine and 5‐HT agonists on drug‐seeking and effects of dopamine antagonists on methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)‐produced potentiation of drug‐seeking following extinguished MDMA self‐administration were examined.

KEY RESULTS

Drug‐seeking was produced by exposure to a light stimulus that had been paired with self‐administered MDMA infusions and this effect was potentiated by experimenter‐administered injections of the dopamine D2‐like receptor agonist, quinpirole, the indirect agonist, amphetamine and the uptake inhibitor, GBR 12909. Drug‐seeking was not elicited by the dopamine D1‐like receptor agonist, SKF 81297 or the non‐selective agonist, apomorphine. The 5‐HT receptor agonists DOI or mCPP also failed to elicit drug‐seeking. The 5‐HT uptake inhibitor, clomipramine, attenuated drug‐seeking produced by the MDMA‐associated stimulus but failed to alter the potentiated response produced by GBR 12909. The D1receptor antagonist, SCH 23390 or the D2receptor antagonist, eticlopride attenuated the potentiation of drug‐seeking produced by MDMA.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

These data provide evidence of dopaminergic mechanisms in drug‐seeking following extinction of MDMA self‐administration. Because tissue levels of 5‐HT were significantly decreased following MDMA self‐administration, we suggest that MDMA begins to preferentially activate dopaminergic substrates to potentiate the drug‐seeking response.
Cough: an unmet clinical need
Authors: Dicpinigaitis Peter V.
Published: December 2010

Cough is among the most common complaints for which patients worldwide seek medical attention. Thus, the evaluation and treatment of cough result in tremendous financial expenditure and consumption of health care resources. Yet, despite the clinical significance of cough, research efforts aimed at improving diagnostic capabilities and developing more effective therapeutic agents have been, to date, disappointing in their limited scope and outcomes. Acute cough due to the common cold represents the most common type of cough. Currently, available medications for the symptomatic management of acute cough are inadequate due to lack of proven efficacy and/or their association with undesirable or intolerable side effects at anti‐tussive doses. Subacute cough, often representing a prolonged post‐viral response, is typically refractory to standard anti‐tussive therapy. Few clinical trials have evaluated therapeutic options for subacute cough. Diagnostic challenges facing the clinician in the management of chronic cough include the determination of whether symptoms of upper airway cough syndrome (formerly, postnasal drip syndrome) or gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease are indeed the underlying cause of cough. Chronic, refractory unexplained (formerly, idiopathic) cough must be distinguished from cough that has not been fully evaluated and treated according to current guideline recommendations. Eagerly awaited are new safe and effective anti‐tussive agents for use when cough suppression is desired, regardless of underlying aetiology of cough, as well as practical, validated ambulatory cough counters to aid clinical assessment and future research in the field of cough.

LINKED ARTICLESThis article is part of a themed issue on Respiratory Pharmacology. To view the other articles in this issue visithttp://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2011.163.issue‐1
Lycopene: features and potential significance in the oral cancer and precancerous lesions
Authors: Lu Rui , Dan Hongxia , Wu Ruiqing , Meng Wenxia , Liu Na , Jin Xin , Zhou Min , Zeng Xin , Zhou Gang , Chen Qianming
Published: December 2010

J Oral Pathol Med (2010) 40: 361–368

Data from epidemiological studies have indicated that diets rich in fruits and vegetables are likely to benefit many aspects of the prevention of oral malignancy. Lycopene is a red‐coloured carotenoid predominantly accumulated in tomatoes as well as other fruits and vegetables. It has been claimed to alleviate chronic diseases such as cancers and cardiovascular disease. Hence, the aim of this review is to summarize the features and its potential significance of lycopene in the development, prevention and treatment of oral premalignant lesions and oral cancer. Studies showed that lycopene might have beneficial effects in the management of some premalignant lesions in the oral cavity including oral submucous fibrosis and oral leukoplakia and may be an adjunct in the prevention and therapy of oral cancer. However, more mechanistic studies and randomized controlled trials of large sample size are necessary to further confirm these effects and to eventually make lycopene to be used in the community prevention and clinically routine management of these diseases.
Behavior of REE Fractionation during Weathering of Dolomite Regolith Profile in Southwest China
Authors: Qingjie GONG , Gaixia ZHANG , Jing ZHANG , Biao JIANG , Nan MA
Published: December 2010

REE fractionation during the weathering of dolomite has been recognized for decades. A regolith profile on dolomite in southwest Yunnan of China was selected to investigate the behaviors of REE during weathering. The weathering of dolomite is divided into two stages: the pedogenesis stage and soil evolution stage, corresponding to the saprolites and soils respectively in the regolith profile. SiO2, TiO2, P2O5, Zr, Hf, Nb and Ta were immobile components during the weathering by and large, while Al2O3, K2O and Fe2O3 were lost during the soil evolution stage in the physical form (clay minerals probably). REE were fractionated during the whole weathering of dolomite. The field weathering profile and the lab acid‐leaching experiments on dolomite indicate that MREE were enriched clearly relative to other REE during the pedogenesis stage in a “capillary ascending‐adsorption” mechanism, but they did not fractionate clearly in the soil evolution stage. REE were lost and accumulated in the weathering front of dolomite during the soil evolution stage in a “physical‐chemical leaching” mechanism.