bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Missing and presumed lost: extinction in the ocean and its inference
Authors: Smith Woollcott K. , Solow Andrew R.
Published: November 2011

Smith, W. K., and Solow, A. R. 2012. Missing and presumed lost: extinction in the ocean and its inference. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 69: 89–94. The number of modern extinctions in the ocean is unknown. The actual demise of the last individual of a species is essentially unobservable, so extinction can only be inferred. Statistical methods are described for inferring extinction from sighting records, species–area considerations, and taxonomic samples collected at two different times. The methods are illustrated using a variety of real datasets, including a sighting record of the Caribbean monk seal and results from three surveys of benthic invertebrates.
Development of Weather-Based Predictive Models for Fusarium Head Blight and Deoxynivalenol Accumulation for Spring Malting Barley
Authors: Bondalapati K. D. , Stein J. M. , Neate S. M. , Halley S. H. , Osborne L. E. , Hollingsworth C. R.
Published: November 2011

The associations between Fusarium head blight (FHB), caused by Gibberella zeae, and deoxynivalenol (DON) accumulation in spring malting barley (Hordeum vulgare) and hourly weather conditions predictive of DON accumulation were examined using data from six growing seasons in the U.S. Northern Great Plains. Three commonly grown cultivars were planted throughout the region, and FHB disease and DON concentration were recorded. Nine predictor variables were calculated using hourly temperature and relative humidity during the 10 days preceding full head spike emergence. Simple logistic regression models were developed using these predictor variables based on a binary threshold for DON of 0.5 mg/kg. Four of the nine models had sensitivity greater than 80%, and specificity of these models ranged from 67 to 84% (n = 150). The most useful predictor was the joint effect of average hourly temperature and a weighted duration of uninterrupted hours (h) with relative humidity greater than or equal to 90%. The results of this study confirm that FHB incidence is significantly associated with DON accumulation in the grain and that weather conditions prior to full head emergence could be used to accurately predict the risk of economically significant DON accumulation for spring malting barley.
Spot Form of Net Blotch Resistance in a Diverse Set of Barley Lines in Australia and Canada
Authors: McLean Mark S. , Howlett Barbara J. , Turkington T. Kelly , Platz Greg J. , Hollaway Grant J.
Published: November 2011

The responses of 95 barley lines and cultivars to spot form of net blotch (SFNB) caused by Pyrenophora teres f. maculata were analyzed as seedlings and adults in Australia and Canada. Cluster analyses revealed complex reaction responses. Only 2 lines (Esperance Orge 289 and TR3189) were resistant to all isolates at the seedling stage, whereas 15 lines and cultivars (81-82/033, Arimont, BYDV-018, CBSS97M00855T-B2-M1-Y1-M2-Y-1M-0Y, CI9776, Keel, Sloop, Torrens, TR326, VB0111, Yarra, VB0229, WI-2477, WI2553, and Wisconsin Pedigree) were resistant toward the two Canadian isolates and mixture of Australian isolates at the adult stages. In Australian field experiments, the effectiveness of SFNB resistance in three barley cultivars (Barque, Cowabbie, and Schooner) and one breeding line (VB9104) with a different source of resistance was tested. Barque, which possessed a resistance gene that provided complete resistance to SFNB, was the most effective and showed no effect on grain yield or quality in the presence of inoculum. Generally, cultivars with seedling or adult resistance had less disease and better grain quality than the susceptible control, Dash, but they were not as effective as Barque. A preliminary differential set of 19 barley lines and cultivars for P. teres f. maculata is proposed.
Wild geese do not increase flight behaviour prior to migration
Authors: Portugal Steven J. , Green Jonathan A. , White Craig R. , Guillemette Magella , Butler Patrick J.
Published: November 2011

Hypertrophy of the flight muscles is regularly observed in birds prior to long-distance migrations. We tested the hypothesis that a large migratory bird would increase flight behaviour prior to migration, in order to cause hypertrophy of the flight muscles, and upregulate key components of the aerobic metabolic pathways. Implantable data loggers were used to record year-round heart rate in six wild barnacle geese (Branta leucopsis), and the amount of time spent in flight each day was identified. Time in flight per day did not significantly increase prior to either the spring or the autumn migration, both between time periods prior to migration (5, 10 and 15 days), or when compared with a control period of low activity during winter. The lack of significant increase in flight prior to migration suggests that approximately 22 min per day is sufficient to maintain the flight muscles in condition for prolonged long-distance flight. This apparent lack of a requirement for increased flight activity prior to migration may be attributable to pre-migratory mass gains in the geese increasing workload during short flights, potentially prompting hypertrophy of the flight muscles.
Hierarchy, causation and explanation: ubiquity, locality and pluralism
Authors: Love Alan C.
Published: November 2011

The ubiquity of top-down causal explanations within and across the sciences is prima facie evidence for the existence of top-down causation. Much debate has been focused on whether top-down causation is coherent or in conflict with reductionism. Less attention has been given to the question of whether these representations of hierarchical relations pick out a single, common hierarchy. A negative answer to this question undermines a commonplace view that the world is divided into stratified ‘levels’ of organization and suggests that attributions of causal responsibility in different hierarchical representations may not have a meaningful basis for comparison. Representations used in top-down and bottom-up explanations are primarily ‘local’ and tied to distinct domains of science, illustrated here by protein structure and folding. This locality suggests that no single metaphysical account of hierarchy for causal relations to obtain within emerges from the epistemology of scientific explanation. Instead, a pluralist perspective is recommended—many different kinds of top-down causation (explanation) can exist alongside many different kinds of bottom-up causation (explanation). Pluralism makes plausible why different senses of top-down causation can be coherent and not in conflict with reductionism, thereby illustrating a productive interface between philosophical analysis and scientific inquiry.
Determination and validation of the elastic moduli of small and complex biological samples: bone and keratin in bird beaks
Authors: Soons Joris , Herrel Anthony , Aerts Peter , Dirckx Joris
Published: November 2011

In recent years, there has been a surge in the development of finite-element (FE) models aimed at testing biological hypotheses. For example, recent modelling efforts suggested that the beak in Darwin's finches probably evolved in response to fracture avoidance. However, knowledge of the material properties of the structures involved is crucial for any model. For many biological structures, these data are not available and may be difficult to obtain experimentally given the complex nature of biological structures. Beaks are interesting as they appear to be highly optimized in some cases. In order to understand the biomechanics of this small and complex structure, we have been developing FE models that take into account the bilayered structure of the beak consisting of bone and keratin. Here, we present the results of efforts related to the determination and validation of the elastic modulus of bone and keratin in bird beaks. The elastic moduli of fresh and dried samples were obtained using a novel double-indentation technique and through an inverse analysis. A bending experiment is used for the inverse analysis and the validation of the measurements. The out-of-plane displacements during loading are measured using digital speckle pattern interferometry.
Human activity selectively impacts the ecosystem roles of parrotfishes on coral reefs
Authors: Bellwood David R. , Hoey Andrew S. , Hughes Terence P.
Published: November 2011

Around the globe, coral reefs and other marine ecosystems are increasingly overfished. Conventionally, studies of fishing impacts have focused on the population size and dynamics of targeted stocks rather than the broader ecosystem-wide effects of harvesting. Using parrotfishes as an example, we show how coral reef fish populations respond to escalating fishing pressure across the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Based on these fish abundance data, we infer the potential impact on four key functional roles performed by parrotfishes. Rates of bioerosion and coral predation are highly sensitive to human activity, whereas grazing and sediment removal are resilient to fishing. Our results offer new insights into the vulnerability and resilience of coral reefs to the ever-growing human footprint. The depletion of fishes causes differential decline of key ecosystem functions, radically changing the dynamics of coral reefs and setting the stage for future ecological surprises.
Feeding difficulties in children with cerebral palsy: low‐cost caregiver training in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Adams M. S. , Khan N. Z. , Begum S. A. , Wirz S. L. , Hesketh T. , Pring T. R.
Published: November 2011

Background The majority of children with cerebral palsy have feeding difficulties, which, if not managed, result in stressful mealtimes, chronic malnutrition, respiratory disease, reduced quality of life for caregiver and child, and early death. In well‐resourced countries, high‐ and low‐cost medical interventions, ranging from gastrostomy tube feeding to caregiver training, are available. In resource‐poor countries such as Bangladesh, the former is not viable and the latter is both scarce and its effectiveness not properly evaluated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a low‐cost, low‐technology intervention to improve the feeding practices of carers of children with moderate–severe cerebral palsy and feeding difficulties in Bangladesh.

Methods An opportunistic sample of 37 caregivers and their children aged 1–11 years were invited to a six‐session training programme following an initial feeding assessment with brief advice. During home visits, pre‐ and post‐measures of nutritional status, chest health and feeding‐related stress were taken and feeding practices were observed. A control phase was evaluated for 20 of the participant pairs following initial assessment with advice, while awaiting full training.

Results A minimum of four training sessions showed significant improvements in the children's respiratory health (P= 0.005), cooperation during mealtimes (P= 0.003) and overall mood (P< 0.001). Improvements in growth were inconsistent. Dramatic reductions were observed in caregiver stress (P< 0.001). A significant difference in the outcomes following advice only compared with advice plus training was also observed.

Conclusions In situations of poverty, compliance is restricted by lack of education, finances and time. Nonetheless, carers with minimal formal education, living in conditions of extreme poverty were able to change feeding practices after a short, low‐cost training intervention, with highly positive consequences. The availability of affordable food supplementation for this population, however, requires urgent attention.
Evaluation of yield and chemical composition of a halophyte (Suaeda glauca) and its feeding value for lambs
Authors: Sun H. X. , Zhou D. W. , Zhao C. S. , Wang M. L. , Zhong R. Z. , Liu H. W.
Published: November 2011

Suaeda glauca is a potential feedstock for ruminants in north‐east China in areas of increasing salinity. The characteristics of S. glauca pasture from June to October and effects on intake, digestion and blood metabolites in lambs given increasing proportions of S. glauca in the forage component of a mixed hay/concentrate (50/50) diet were evaluated. Harvest date had a significant effect on dry matter (DM) yield. There were significant increases in DM content, total energy, neutral detergent fibre and acid detergent fibre (ADF), but declines in leaf proportion, crude protein, total ash and sodium contents with maturity. Inclusion of 25%S. glauca hay in a diet significantly improved daily intake of DM, organic matter (OM) and energy compared with T0% and T50% groups. Supplementation at 25 or 50% significantly increased the digestibility of energy, DM, OM and ADF compared with the T0% group. Water intake, urinary excretion, water content of fresh faeces and sodium excretion from urine linearly increased with increasing S. glauca content, but potassium excretion from urine decreased. K and Mg serum contents were significantly increased compared with T0% group when S. glauca made up 50% of diet. This study indicates that S. glauca is a suitable hay when added as 25% of the lamb diet.
Cytoplasmic expression of oestrogen receptor beta (ERβ) as a prognostic factor in vulvar squamous cell carcinoma in elderly women
Authors: Zannoni Gian F , Prisco Maria G , Vellone Valerio G , De Stefano Ilaria , Vizzielli Giuseppe , Tortorella Lucia , Fagotti Anna , Scambia Giovanni , Gallo Daniela
Published: November 2011

Zannoni G F, Prisco M G, Vellone V G, De Stefano I, Vizzielli G, Tortorella L, Fagotti A, Scambia G & Gallo D  (2011) Histopathology  59, 909–917

Cytoplasmic expression of oestrogen receptor beta (ERβ) as a prognostic factor in vulvar squamous cell carcinoma in elderly women

Aims:  To investigate the prognostic value of cytoplasmic oestrogen receptor beta (ERβ) expression in a series of untreated patients with non‐human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related vulvar cancer.

Methods and results:  Immunohistochemistry was carried out using a polyclonal rabbit anti‐human ERβ antibody. The nuclear and cytoplasmic expression of ERβ was evaluated in 33 patients. Cytoplasmic immunoreactivity was correlated with histopathological and molecular parameters (Ki67, p21), disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). The expression of cytoplasmic ERβ was found to be associated with grade (P = 0.006), while no association was found with any of the remaining variables examined. Cases with high cytoplasmic ERβ expression showed lower DFS and OS compared to cases with low cytoplasmic ERβ (P = 0.007, P = 0.01, respectively). There was also a progressive decline in both the DFS and OS with increasing tumour size (P = 0.05, P = 0.07, respectively) and with increasing depth of infiltration (P = 0.14, P = 0.07, respectively). On multivariate analysis, only tumour size and cytoplasmic ERβ staining retained an independent negative prognostic role for DFS and OS.

Conclusions:  The assessment of cytoplasmic ERβ expression could be helpful to identify poor prognosis in elderly patients with non‐HPV‐related vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
The effect of an intervention combining self‐efficacy theory and pedometers on promoting physical activity among adolescents
Authors: Lee Ling‐Ling , Kuo Yu‐Chi , Fanaw Dilw , Perng Shoa‐Jen , Juang Ian‐Fei
Published: November 2011

Aim.  To study the effect of an intervention combining self‐efficacy theory and pedometers on promoting physical activity among adolescents.

Background.  The beneficial effects of regular physical activity on health in youths are well‐documented. However, adolescence is found to be the age of greatest decline in physical activity participation. Physical activity participation among girls was generally less frequent and less intense than boys. Therefore, there is a strong need for effective interventions that can help promote physical activity in this population.

Design.  An experimental design.

Methods.  Two classes of female junior college students (mean age = 16) were randomly sampled from a total of four classes and, of those, one each was randomly assigned to either the intervention (n = 46) or the control group (n = 48). Self‐efficacy was used as a core theoretical foundation of the intervention design, and pedometers were provided to the students in the intervention group. Distances between each domestic scenic spot were illustrated graphically in a walking log for students to mark the extent of their walking or running. Students in the control group participated in a usual physical education programme. The primary outcome was a change in the number of aerobic steps. The secondary outcomes were changes in cardiopulmonary endurance and exercise self‐efficacy.

Results.  At 12‐week follow‐up, the mean change in aerobic steps was 371 steps and 108 steps in the intervention and control group, respectively. The difference in mean change between the two groups was 467 steps. Effects of the intervention on changes of cardiopulmonary endurance and perceived exercise self‐efficacy scores were not found.

Conclusions.  Among adolescent girls, a 12‐week intervention designed on the theoretical foundation of self‐efficacy theory and provision of pedometers was found to have an effect on increasing their physical activity. The intervention, using graphs of domestic scenic spots to represent the distance of walking or running as monitored by pedometers, might enhance motivation regarding physical activity.

Relevance to clinical practice.  It is important for health professionals, including school health nurses, involved in the care of adolescent health, to design and provide a physical activity intervention combining self‐efficacy theory and provision of pedometer to promote physical activity.
Developing a minimum data set for electronic nursing handover
Authors: Johnson Maree , Jefferies Diana , Nicholls Daniel
Published: November 2011

Aims and objectives.  This study presents a minimum data set designed for an electronic system to complement verbal nursing handover.

Background.  Poor communication of patient information at handover has been implicated in adverse events with changes to clinical handover being proposed as a solution. This study developed a minimum data set for an electronic patient summary tool.

Design.  Using an observational design the scope of information being presented by nurses at handover was identified in relation to a generic Nursing Handover Minimum Data Set.

Method.  Patient handovers (n = 195) were observed and digitally recorded across diverse specialties.

Results.  Content analysis confirmed the frequent use of the Nursing Handover Minimum Data Set items across all specialties. The use of the items was affected by the patient context and the clinical setting. Aged care patients often had several clinical alerts reported (pressure areas, falls risk). Rapid changes in patient condition in emergency emphasised the need for a focus on observations and presenting problems. Mental health and maternity required further refinement of the items.

Conclusion.  The generic Nursing Handover Minimum Data Set can direct nurses to give a comprehensive account of their patient’s condition and care. The data set needs to be flexible and adaptable to the patient context and setting and complements structured content verbal handover. This minimum data set provides an excellent framework for system development by clinicians, managers and information technologists. Educators can use this tool to teach student nurses, new graduates and experienced staff, about the patient information to be presented at handover.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The Nursing Handover Minimum Data Set for electronic nursing handover complements verbal handover and provides a tool to give clinicians access to comprehensive information about all patients within the ward area.
The experience of empowerment in the patient–staff encounter: the patient's perspective
Authors: Nygårdh Annette , Malm Dan , Wikby Kerstin , Ahlström Gerd
Published: November 2011

Aim and objective.  The aim was to explore empowerment within the patient–staff encounter as experienced by out‐patients with chronic kidney disease.

Background.  Empowerment has an important role to play in the patient–staff relationship in the case of patients with a chronic disease. When it comes to patients with chronic kidney disease, there has been little research on empowerment, for which reason interviewing such patients about their experiences of empowerment will provide useful knowledge within the context of out‐patient care.

Design.  A qualitative interview study was chosen to gain an understanding of empowerment from the patient perspective.

Method.  The study was carried out at an out‐patient clinic in Sweden and involved 20 patients with chronic kidney disease. The interviews were subjected to latent content analysis.

Results.  Five of the seven sub‐themes emerging from the analysis represented empowerment: Accessibility according to need, Confirming encounter, Trust in the competence of the healthcare staff, Participation in decision‐making, Learning enables better self‐management. The other two represented non‐empowerment: Meeting with nonchalance, Lack of dialogue and influence. From the seven sub‐themes, one comprehensive theme was generated: Creation of trust and learning through encounter.

Conclusion.  The main finding regarding the central role of the creation of trust and learning through the patient–staff encounter underlines the importance of understanding empowerment from the patient’s perspective.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Nursing and other healthcare staff need knowledge and understanding of the meaning of empowerment from the patients’ perspective to meet their needs in out‐patient care.
The effect of cold application on pain due to chest tube removal
Authors: Ertuğ Nurcan , Ülker Saadet
Published: November 2011

Aim and objectives.  The aim of the research is to determine the effect of cold application on the pain owing to chest tube removal for patients with single pleural chest tube.

Background.  Removal of chest tubes causes patients to feel pain and interventions used for reducing the pain owing to the removal of chest tubes are not sufficient.

Design.  Controlled clinical trial with repeated measures.

Methods.  This study was conducted with 140 patients, of whom 70 patients were in the experimental group and 70 patients were in the control group, in a thoracic hospital in Turkey. Data were collected using a data collection form consisting of patients’ demographic and health history and Visual Analogue Scale. Cold was applied to patients in the experimental group prior to chest tube removal. In the experimental group, skin temperature and pain intensity was measured for each patient at four time points. In the control group, pain intensity was evaluated for each patient at three time points. Data were evaluated using Chi‐square and Repeated Measurements two‐way anova tests.

Results.  The Visual Analogue Scale score was measured immediately after the chest tube removal in the experimental group was 3·85, compared with 5·60 in the control group. There were significant differences on pain with cold application between the two groups prior and after the intervention. Age, gender, the number of days the chest tube was inserted and the chest tube insertion indication had no effect on the pain owing to chest tube removal.

Conclusion.  Cold application is effective in reducing the pain owing to chest tube removal.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Cold application was recommended prior to chest tube removal to reduce the pain owing to removal of chest tube.
Studies on the inactivation of selected viral and bacterial fish pathogens at high pH for waste disposal purposes
Authors: Dixon P F , Algoët M , Bayley A , Dodge M , Joiner C , Roberts E
Published: November 2011

This study investigated the use of alkaline hydrolysis at ambient temperature for inactivation of selected fish pathogens in fish tissues under conditions approximating those that are likely to be found in the aquaculture industry. Infectious salmon anaemia virus (ISAV) and Lactococcus garvieae have been determined in a previous study to be the most resistant virus and bacteria to pH 12 from a wide range of viruses and bacteria tested. They were spiked at high titres into fish extracts that were then treated with 1 m sodium hydroxide (NaOH). Viable L. garvieae was not detected in the treated fish extract after 1 h, and ISAV was not detected after 24‐h exposure. Field mortalities of Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., caused by infectious pancreatic necrosis virus were treated by alkaline hydrolysis at ambient temperature. The macerated fish mortalities contained a high titre of virus (3.38 × 108 TCID50 g−1) that was reduced to approximately 2.2 × 103 TCID50 g−1 after 24‐h exposure to NaOH, and virus was not detected after exposure for 48 h. The results suggest that alkaline hydrolysis at ambient temperature has potential as a biosecure treatment method for fish by‐products containing fish pathogens.
The relation between coronary artery calcification in asymptomatic subjects and both traditional risk factors and living in the city centre: a DanRisk substudy
Authors: Lambrechtsen J. , Gerke O. , Egstrup K. , Sand N. P. , Nørgaard B. L. , Petersen H. , Mickley H. , Diederichsen A. C. P.
Published: November 2011

Abstract.  Lambrechtsen J, Gerke O, Egstrup K, Sand NP, Nørgaard BL, Petersen H, Mickley H, Diederichsen ACP (Svendborg Hospital, Svendborg; Odense University Hospital, Odense; SVS, Esbjerg; Institute of Regional Health Services Research, University of Southern Denmark; Vejle Hospital, Vejle; and Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark). The relation between coronary artery calcification in asymptomatic subjects and both traditional risk factors and living in the city centre: a DanRisk substudy. J Intern Med 2012; 271: 444–450.

Objective.  To evaluate the association between the risk factor for living in the city centre as a surrogate for air pollution and the presence of coronary artery calcification (CAC) in a population of asymptomatic Danish subjects.

Design and subjects.  A random sample of 1825 men and women of either 50 or 60 years of age were invited to take part in a screening project designed to assess risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Noncontrast cardiac computed tomography was performed on all subjects, and their Agatston scores were calculated to evaluate the presence of subclinical coronary atherosclerosis. The relationship between CAC and several demographic and clinical parameters was evaluated using multivariate logistic regression.

Results.  A total of 1225 individuals participated in the study, of whom 250 (20%) were living in the centres of major Danish cities. Gender and age showed the greatest association with the presence of CAC: the odds ratio (OR) for men compared with women was 3.2 [95% confidence interval (CI) 2.5–4.2; P < 0.0001], and the OR for subjects aged 60 versus those aged 50 years was 2.2 (95% CI 1.7–2.8; P < 0.0001). Other variables independently associated with the presence of CAC were diabetes and smoking with ORs of 2.0 (95% CI 1.1–3.5; P = 0.03) and 1.9 (95% CI 1.4–2.5, P < 0.0001), respectively. The adjusted OR for subjects living in city centres compared to those living outside was 1.8 (95% CI 1.3–2.4; P = 0.0003).

Conclusion.  Both conventional risk factors for CVD and living in a city centre are independently associated with the presence of CAC in asymptomatic middle‐aged subjects.
Potential limitations in the use of KillerRed for fluorescence microscopy
Authors: NORDGREN M. , WANG B. , APANASETS O. , BREES C. , VAN VELDHOVEN P.P. , FRANSEN M.
Published: November 2011

KillerRed, a bright red fluorescent protein, is a genetically encoded photosensitizer, which generates radicals and hydrogen peroxide upon green light illumination. The protein is a potentially powerful tool for selective light‐induced protein inactivation and cell killing, and can also be used to study downstream effects of locally increased levels of reactive oxygen species. The initial aim of this study was to investigate whether or not KillerRed‐mediated reactive oxygen species production inside peroxisomes could trigger the sequestration of these organelles into autophagosomes. Green fluorescent protein‐tagged microtubule‐associated protein 1 light chain 3 was used as autophagosome marker. We observed that KillerRed also emits weak green fluorescence upon excitation at 480 nm, and this may lead to erroneous data interpretation in conditions where green fluorophores are used. We discuss this potential pitfall of KillerRed for biological imaging and formulate recommendations to avoid misinterpretation of the data.
Successful serology‐based intervention to increase protection against vaccine‐preventable diseases in liver‐transplanted children: A 19‐yr review of the Swiss national reference center
Authors: L’Huillier A. G. , Wildhaber B. E. , Belli D. C. , Diana A. , Rodriguez M. , Siegrist C. A. , Posfay‐Barbe K. M.
Published: November 2011

L’Huillier AG, Wildhaber BE, Belli DC, Diana A, Rodriguez M, Siegrist CA, Posfay‐Barbe KM. Successful serology‐based intervention to increase protection against vaccine‐preventable diseases in liver‐transplanted children: A 19‐yr review of the Swiss national reference center.  Pediatr Transplantation 2012: 16: 50–57. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  As children referred for OLT in Switzerland were not vaccinated optimally, new guidelines were developed and recommended to base catch‐up immunization on serum antibody titers against vaccine‐preventable diseases, before and after OLT. We measure the results of this serology‐based intervention by comparing vaccine coverage and antibody titers in the pre‐ (1990–2002, P1) and post‐intervention (2003–2008, P2) cohorts in a quality control project. Forty‐four P1 and 30 P2 children were evaluated. At pre‐OLT visit, D, T, SPn, and MMR serologies were checked more frequently in P2 than P1 (p < 0.05). More P2 children were up‐to‐date for DTaP and MMR (p < 0.05) or had received ≥1 dose of HBV, HAV, SPn, and VZV vaccines (p < 0.05). One yr post‐OLT, DT, SPn, MMR, and VZV serologies were more frequently checked (p < 0.05), and antibody titers were higher for DT and HAV (p < 0.05) in P2. Gender, age, or diagnosis did not explain these differences. Among P2 patients, pre‐ and post‐OLT titers for D, T, Hib, HBV, SPn14, and SPn19 were correlated (p < 0.05 for all). Protection against vaccine‐preventable diseases of high‐risk children like OLT patients can be significantly improved by serology‐based intervention for vaccine‐preventable diseases.
Feed consumption, diet digestibility and mineral utilization in captive blackbuck (Antelope cervicapra) fed different levels of concentrates
Authors: Das A. , Katole S. , Choubey M. , Gupta S. P. , Saini M. , Kumar V. , Swarup D.
Published: November 2011

A feeding trial was conducted to know the level of concentrates in the diet of Antelope cervicapra at which diet digestibility and mineral utilization were optimum. Fifteen blackbucks (25–33 kg BW) were distributed into three groups of five each. Fresh oat (Avena sativa) and berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum) fodders were offered ad libitum to all the animals. In addition, animals in groups II and III received concentrate mixture at the rate of 0.5 and 1% of BW, whereas animals in group I received no concentrates. As the level of concentrates increased, consumption of fodder decreased resulting in decreased consumption of neutral detergent fibre (NDFom), acid detergent fibre (ADFom), hemicellulose and cellulose. However, overall total dry matter (DM) and organic matter (OM) intake was not significantly different between the groups. Digestibility of DM, OM and gross energy (GE) increased while that of NDFom and ADFom decreased with increased level of concentrates in the diet. Intake of P, Zn, Cu and Mn increased with increased level of concentrate supplementation; however, consumption of Ca and Fe followed the reverse trend. Absorption of P and Zn increased with increased level of concentrate supplementation. Serum concentration of Zn increased when concentrate was supplemented at the rate of 0.5% BW beyond which there was no further improvement. Increasing the level of concentrates in the diet was resulted in increased serum glucose and cholesterol levels. Forage‐only diet was inadequate in supply of energy, P and zinc. Supplementation of concentrates at the rate of 0.5% BW was able to meet the requirement of these nutrients. Supplementation at the rate of 1% BW supplied energy and P in excess of requirement. It was concluded that the feeding of concentrates to the captive blackbuck fed forage‐based diets should be restricted to 0.5% of BW.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections due to electronic faucets in a neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Yapicioglu Hacer , Gokmen Tulin Guven , Yildizdas Dincer , Koksal Fatih , Ozlu Ferda , Kale‐Cekinmez Eren , Mert Kurthan , Mutlu Birgul , Satar Mehmet , Narli Nejat , Candevir Aslihan
Published: November 2011

Aim:  To evaluate the role of electronic faucets in a newborn intensive care unit during a Pseudomonas aeruginosa outbreak.

Methods:  After three patients had P. aeruginosa bacteremia, environmental cultures including those from patient rooms, incubator, ventilators, total parenteral nutrition solutions, disinfection solutions, electronic and hand‐operated faucet filters/water samples after removing filters and staff hands were taken.

Results:  Only filters of electronic faucets and water samples after removing filters and one liquid hand soap showed P. aeruginosa (3–7 × 106 cfu/mL). We have removed the electronic faucets and new elbow‐operated faucets were installed. Pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis analysis of outbreak‐blood culture isolates from two patients and isolates from electronic water faucets/one liquid hand soap indicated the presence of 90.7% genetically related subtype, probably from the same clone. Water cultures from new faucets were all clean after installation and after 7 months.

Conclusion:  We suggest that electronic faucets may be considered a potential risk for P. aeruginosa in hospitals, especially in high‐risk units.
Does body size influence thermal biology and diet of a python (Morelia spilota imbricata)?
Authors: BRYANT GILLIAN L. , DE TORES PAUL J. , WARREN KRISTIN A. , FLEMING PATRICIA A.
Published: November 2011

Current theory predicts that larger‐bodied snakes not only consume larger prey (compared with smaller individuals), but may also have a different range of prey available to them due to their thermal biology. It has been argued that smaller individuals, with lower thermal inertia (i.e. faster cooling rates at nightfall when air temperature falls and basking opportunities are limited), may be thermally restricted to foraging and hunting during the day on diurnally active prey, and have reduced capacity to hunt crepuscular and nocturnal prey species. This predictive theory was investigated by way of dietary analysis, assessment of thermal biology and thermoregulation behaviour in an ambush forager, the south‐west carpet python (Morelia spilota imbricata, Pythonidae). Eighty‐seven scats were collected from 34 individual pythons over a 3‐year radiotelemetry monitoring study. As predicted by gape size limitation, larger pythons took larger prey; however, 65% of prey items of small pythons were represented by nocturnally active, small mammals, a larger proportion than present in larger snakes. Several measures of thermal biology (absolute body temperature, thermal differential of body temperature to air temperature, maximum hourly heating and cooling rates) were not strongly affected by python body mass. Additionally, body temperature was only influenced by the behavioural choice of microhabitat selection and was not affected by python body size or position, suggesting that these behavioural choices do not allow smaller pythons to vastly increase their temporal foraging window. By coupling dietary analysis, measures of body temperature and behavioural observations of free‐ranging animals, we conclude that, contrary to theoretical predictions, a small body size does not thermally restrict the temporal window for ambush foraging in M. s. imbricata. An ontogenetic or size‐determined switch from ambush feeding to actively foraging on slower prey would account for the differences in prey taken by these animals. The concept of altered foraging behaviour warrants further investigation in this species.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of newer anticholinergic drugs for urinary incontinence vs oxybutynin and no treatment using data on persistence from the Swedish prescribed drug registry
Authors: Nilsson Fredrik O.L. , Linnér Love , Samuelsson Eva , Milsom Ian
Published: November 2011

Study Type – Therapy (cost effectiveness)

Level of Evidence 2a

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Anticholinergic drugs are a common treatment alternative in urinary incontinence, which results in large costs for caregivers. So far, most cost‐effectiveness analyses of anticholinergic drugs have focused on small putative differences between the newer anticholinergics. This study takes a novel approach by treating the clinical effects of the newer alternatives as similar and evaluating them as a group in relation to no treatment and oxybutynin (immediate release). It also uses registry data to account for persistence.

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the cost‐effectiveness of newer anticholinergic drugs in relation to oxybutynin immediate release (IR) and no treatment for patients with urgency urinary incontinence.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A decision analytic model was constructed.

Results were collected from randomized trials and combined with registry data on persistence of medicine use and estimated number of severe adverse events.

The setting corresponds to Swedish clinical practice.

The costs and effects of the treatment options were analysed over a period of 1 year. Costs included drug costs, treatment costs and costs for pad use. Patients' utilities were based on treatment effect and the lack or presence of adverse events.

RESULTS

No treatment was the least costly treatment but also resulted in the fewest number of quality adjusted life years (QALYs).

Treatment with newer anticholinergic drug medications is the most costly option but also the most efficient treatment. Sensitivity analyses showed that the results were robust.

Treatment with newer anticholinergics resulted in a cost per QALY gained of €21 045 compared with no treatment and no effect and €65 435 compared with no treatment and placebo effect. Compared with oxybutynin IR, the cost per QALY gained was €37 119. These calculations are based on relatively low pad costs, resulting in higher costs per QALY for the original drugs.

CONCLUSIONS

The newer anticholinergic medications are likely to be cost effective in relation to oxybutynin IR.

The cost‐effectiveness of the newer anticholinergics compared with no treatment depends on assumptions of the effect of no treatment, the severity of the treated condition and the treated individual's risk of adverse events.

Treatment is less likely to be cost effective for elderly persons or for persons otherwise at higher risk for adverse events.
Effects of the Bam earthquake on employment: a shift‐share analysis
Authors: Mehregan Nader , Asgary Ali , Rezaei Rouhollah
Published: November 2011

Disasters have potential short‐term and long‐term impacts on employment and employment structures in affected regions. While measuring the full economic impact of a disaster requires sophisticated econometrics and mathematical simulations, conventional regional economic models such as shift‐share analysis can be used to assess some of these effects. This paper applies shift‐share analysis to understand potential long‐term impacts of disasters on employment using the December 2003 Bam earthquake as a case study. The results provide further evidence that disasters could have significant long‐term effects on the employment structure of affected regions.
Topics of statistical theory for register‐based statistics and data integration
Authors: Zhang Li‐Chun
Published: November 2011

Official statistics production based on a combination of data sources, including sample survey, census and administrative registers, is becoming more and more common. Reduction of response burden, gains of production cost efficiency as well as potentials for detailed spatial‐demographic and longitudinal statistics are some of the major advantages associated with the use of integrated statistical data. Data integration has always been an essential feature associated with the use of administrative register data. But survey and census data should also be integrated, so as to widen their scope and improve the quality. There are many new and difficult challenges here that are beyond the traditional topics of survey sampling and data integration. In this article we consider statistical theory for data integration on a conceptual level. In particular, we present a two‐phase life‐cycle model for integrated statistical microdata, which provides a framework for the various potential error sources, and outline some concepts and topics for quality assessment beyond the ideal of error‐free data. A shared understanding of these issues will hopefully help us to collocate and coordinate efforts in future research and development.
Epilepsy in school‐aged children: more than just seizures?
Authors: REILLY COLIN , BALLANTINE REBECCA
Published: November 2011

Epilepsy is the most common neurological disorder in childhood and can have a significant impact on a child's schooling. Children with epilepsy may have special educational needs due to having learning disability, specific learning difficulties, specific cognitive deficits or having symptoms associated with ASD, ADHD, depression or anxiety. These difficulties are often under‐recognised due to the emphasis placed on the management of seizures. The effects of seizures and side‐effects of anti‐epileptic medications (AEDs) can also influence classroom learning. The significant stigma associated with epilepsy can influence attitudes towards affected children and impact on self‐esteem. Interventions to support children with epilepsy should focus on epilepsy management, learning and behavioural interventions and whole‐school psychosocial interventions. Epilepsy is a spectrum condition and for some children the effects on schooling will be minimal but for others significant supports will be needed. Therefore, an individualised approach within the school environment and close collaboration between teachers, parents and medical professionals are essential in order to meet the children's needs.
On the Validity of the Likelihood Ratio Test and Consistency of Resulting Parameter Estimates in Joint Linkage and Linkage Disequilibrium Analysis under Improperly Specified Parametric Models
Authors: Hiekkalinna Tero , Göring Harald H. H. , Terwilliger Joseph D.
Published: November 2011

It has been shown that parametric analysis of linkage disequilibrium conditional on linkage using an overly deterministic model can be optimal for family‐based association analysis. However, if one applies this strategy carelessly, there is a risk of false inference. We analyse properties of such likelihood ratio tests when the assumed disease mode of inheritance is inaccurate. Under some conditions, problems result if one is not careful to consider what null hypothesis is being tested. We show that: (a) tests for which the null hypothesis assumes the absence of both linkage and association are independent of the true mode of inheritance; (b) likelihood ratio tests assuming either linkage or association under the null hypothesis may depend on the true mode of inheritance, leading to inconsistent parameter estimates, in particular under extremely deterministic models; (c) this problem cannot be eliminated by increasing sample size or adding population controls – as sample size increases, the chance of false positive inference goes to 100%; (d) this issue can lead to systematic false positive inference of association in regions of linkage. This is important because highly deterministic models are often used intentionally in model‐based analyses because they can have more power than the true model, and are implicit in many model‐free analysis methods.
Keeping it simple: flowering plants tend to retain, and revert to, simple leaves
Authors: Geeta R. , Dávalos Liliana M. , Levy André , Bohs Lynn , Lavin Mathew , Mummenhoff Klaus , Sinha Neelima , Wojciechowski Martin F.
Published: November 2011

A wide range of factors (developmental, physiological, ecological) with unpredictable interactions control variation in leaf form. Here, we examined the distribution of leaf morphologies (simple and complex forms) across angiosperms in a phylogenetic context to detect patterns in the directions of changes in leaf shape.

Seven datasets (diverse angiosperms and six nested clades, Sapindales, Apiales, Papaveraceae, Fabaceae, Lepidium, Solanum) were analysed using maximum likelihood and parsimony methods to estimate asymmetries in rates of change among character states.

Simple leaves are most frequent among angiosperm lineages today, were inferred to be ancestral in angiosperms and tended to be retained in evolution (stasis). Complex leaves slowly originated (‘gains’) and quickly reverted to simple leaves (‘losses’) multiple times, with a significantly greater rate of losses than gains. Lobed leaves may be a labile intermediate step between different forms. The nested clades showed mixed trends; Solanum, like the angiosperms in general, had higher rates of losses than gains, but the other clades had higher rates of gains than losses.

The angiosperm‐wide pattern could be taken as a null model to test leaf evolution patterns in particular clades, in which patterns of variation suggest clade‐specific processes that have yet to be investigated fully.
The p66Shc knockout mice are short lived under natural condition
Authors: Giorgio Marco , Berry Alessandra , Berniakovich Ina , Poletaeva Inga , Trinei Mirella , Stendardo Massimo , Hagopian Kevork , Ramsey Jon J. , Cortopassi Gino , Migliaccio Enrica , Nötzli Sarah , Amrein Irmgard , Lipp Hans P. , Cirulli Francesca , Pelicci Pier G.
Published: November 2011

Deletion of the p66Shc gene results in lean and healthy mice, retards aging, and protects from aging‐associated diseases, raising the question of why p66Shc has been selected, and what is its physiological role. We have investigated survival and reproduction of p66Shc−/− mice in a population living in a large outdoor enclosure for a year, subjected to food competition and exposed to winter temperatures. Under these conditions, deletion of p66Shc was strongly counterselected. Laboratory studies revealed that p66Shc−/− mice have defects in fat accumulation, thermoregulation, and reproduction, suggesting that p66Shc has been evolutionarily selected because of its role in energy metabolism. These findings imply that the health impact of targeting aging genes might depend on the specific energetic niche and caution should be exercised against premature conclusions regarding gene functions that have only been observed in protected laboratory conditions.