bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subduction of mantle wedge peridotites: Evidence from the Higashi‐akaishi ultramafic body in the Sanbagawa metamorphic belt
Authors: Hattori Keiko , Wallis Simon , Enami Masaki , Mizukami Tomoyuki
Published: November 2009

The Higashi‐akaishi garnet‐bearing ultramafic body in the Sanbagawa metamorphic belt, Southwest Japan, represents a rare example of oceanic‐type ultrahigh‐pressure metamorphism. The body of 2 km × 5 km is composed mostly of anhydrous dunite with volumetrically minor lenses of clinopyroxene‐rich rocks. Dunite samples contain high Ir‐type platinum group elements (PGE) and Cr in bulk rocks, high Mg and Ni in olivine, and high Cr in spinel. On the other hand, clinopyroxene‐rich rocks contain low concentrations of Ir‐type PGE and Cr, high concentrations of fluid‐mobile elements in bulk rocks, and low Ni and Mg in olivine. Clinopyroxene is diopsidic with low Al2O3. The compositions of bulk rocks and mineral chemistry of spinel, olivine, and clinopyroxene suggest that the olivine‐dominated rocks are residual mantle peridotites after high degrees of influx partial melting, and that the clinopyroxene‐rich rocks are cumulates of subduction‐related melts. Thus, the Higashi‐akaishi ultramafic body originated from the interior of the mantle wedge, most likely the forearc upper mantle. It was then incorporated into the Sanbagawa subduction channel by a mantle flow, and underwent high pressure metamorphism to a depth greater than 100 km. Such a strong active flow in the mantle wedge is likely facilitated by the lack of serpentinites along the interface between the slab and the overlying mantle, as it was too hot for serpentine. These unusually hot conditions and strong active mantle flow may reflect conditions in the earliest stage of development of subduction, and may have been maintained by massive upwelling and subsequent eastward flow of asthenospheric mantle in the northeastern Asian continent in Cretaceous time when the Sanbagawa belt began to form.
Orthopyroxene–cordierite mafic gneiss from the Nomamisaki metamorphic rocks, Southern Kyushu, Japan: Implication for western continuation of the Usuki–Yatsushiro Tectonic Line
Authors: Ikeda Takeshi , Hiramine Aya , Onoue Tetsuji
Published: November 2009

We describe an orthopyroxene–cordierite mafic gneiss from the Nomamisaki metamorphic rocks in the Noma Peninsula, southern Kyushu, Japan. The mineral assemblage of the gneiss is orthopyroxene, cordierite, biotite, plagioclase, and ilmenite. Thermometry based on the Fe–Mg exchange reaction between orthopyroxene and biotite yields a peak metamorphic temperature of 680°C. The stability of cordierite relative to garnet, quartz, and sillimanite defines the upper limit of the peak metamorphic pressure as 4.4 kbar. These features indicate that the Nomamisaki metamorphic rocks underwent low‐pressure high‐temperature type metamorphism. Although a chronological problem still remains, the Nomamisaki metamorphic rocks can be regarded as a western continuation of the Higo Belt. The Usuki–Yatsushiro Tectonic Line, which delineates the southern border of the Higo Belt, is therefore located on the east of the Nomamisaki metamorphic rocks in southern Kyushu.
Low‐grade dysplasia component in early invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus
Authors: Shimizu Yuichi , Yoshida Takeshi , Kato Mototsugu , Hirota Jojo , Ono Shouko , Nakagawa Manabu , Kobayashi Takahiko , Kubota Kanako , Asaka Masahiro
Published: November 2009

Background and Aims:  It has not been determined whether low‐grade squamous dysplasia (LGD) of the esophagus is a precancerous lesion or not. If LGD progresses to squamous cell carcinoma, early carcinoma lesions that have such a natural history might contain a remaining LGD component.

Methods:  The lesions in the 68 patients with early invasive squamous cell carcinoma who underwent endoscopic mucosal resection were examined for the presence of an LGD component. If LGD components were observed, the degrees of architectural and cytological abnormalities of LGD components and those of tumor invasive fronts in the same lesions were studied. The degrees of abnormalities of 28 small LGD lesions were also studied.

Results:  Histological examination of resected specimens confirmed LGD components in 43% of the squamous cell carcinoma lesions. The lesions of lamina propria mucosae (m2) cancer contained a significantly broader area of LGD component than did the lesions of muscularis mucosae (m3) and submucosal layer (sm) cancer (P = 0.037). Mean score for the degrees of cytological abnormalities of LGD component was similar to that of tumor invasive front (P = 0.457) and significantly higher than that of small LGD lesions (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:  Our results indicate the possibility that the lesion was formed by a combination of small lesions that arose as a multicentric occurrence of squamous cell carcinoma and dysplasia. Our results also suggest that an LGD component would transform to carcinoma along with tumor progression. However, the concept of ‘basal cell layer type carcinoma in situ’ may be suitable for squamous cell lesions with a high degree of cytological abnormalities confined to the lower half of the epithelium.
Four hundred and twenty‐three consecutive adults piggy‐back liver transplantations with the three suprahepatic veins: Was the portal systemic shunt required?
Authors: Audet Maxime , Piardi Tullio , Panaro Fabrizio , Cag Murat , Habibeh Hussein , Gheza Federico , Portolani Nazario , Cinqualbre Jacques , Jaeck Daniel , Wolf Philippe
Published: November 2009

Background and Aims:  The aim of this study is to analyze a single‐center experience in orthotopic liver transplantation with the piggy‐back technique (PB) realized with a cuff of three veins without temporary portacaval shunt. Outcome parameters were graft and patient survival and the surgical complications.

Methods:  The records of 423 liver transplantation in 396 adult recipients were reviewed. PB was performed in all cases also in patients with transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts and redo transplants without temporary portacaval shunt. No hemodynamic instability was observed during venous reconstruction.

Results:  Operation time, cold ischemia time and anhepatic phase were, respectively, 316, 606 and 82 min, respectively. The mean intraoperative transfusion of packed red blood cells was 3.2 (range 1–48). Surgical complications were observed in 25% of the orthotopic liver transplantation and 2% of these was related to caval anastomosis. No case of caval thrombosis was observed; a stenosis was noted in seven patients, always treated with an endovascular approach. A postoperative ascites was observed in seven cases. Retransplantation was required in 6.3% patients. Overall in‐hospital mortality was 5.3%, but no patient died through technical problems or complications related to PB procedure. One‐, 3‐ and 5‐year grafts and patients were 94%, 83% and 75%, and 92%, 86% and 79%, respectively.

Conclusion:  This experience indicates that our approach is feasible with a low specific risk and can be performed without portacaval shunt, with minimal outflow venous complications.
Oral Bifidobacterium modulates intestinal immune inflammation in mice with food allergy
Authors: Zhang Li‐Li , Chen Xiao , Zheng Peng‐Yuan , Luo Yu , Lu Gao‐Feng , Liu Zhi‐Qiang , Huang Huang , Yang Ping‐Chang
Published: November 2009

Background and Aims:  It is proposed that probiotics have a therapeutic effect on the treatment of immune disorders. However, the underlying mechanisms require clarification. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of gavage‐feeding Bifidobacteria on suppression of T helper 2 (Th2) pattern inflammation in the intestines of mice with food allergy.

Methods:  Mice were sensitized to ovalbumin to induce the intestinal Th2 pattern inflammation. Allergic mice were treated with or without Bifidobacteria via gavage‐feeding. Th2 response, number of regulatory T cells (Treg) in the spleen and intestine, intestinal epithelial barrier function and bifidobacterial translocation were examined.

Results:  The results showed that serum‐specific immunoglobulin E antibody and interleukin 4 (IL‐4) were increased in allergic mice. Intestinal epithelial barrier function was impaired in allergic mice as shown by the increase in epithelial ion secretion and permeability to macromolecular protein horseradish peroxidase in Ussing chambers. Number of Treg was decreased in both spleen and intestines of allergic mice. Gavage‐feeding Bifidobacteria significantly suppressed the skewed Th2 response and increased the number of Treg. Transient bifidobacterial translocation was observed in allergic mice.

Conclusions:  Oral administration of Bifidobacteria has the capacity to suppress the skewed Th2 response in allergic mice, increasing the number of Treg and IL‐10‐positive cells and improve the impaired intestinal epithelial barrier function.
Liver stiffness decrease after effective antiviral therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C: Longitudinal study using FibroScan
Authors: Wang Jing‐Houng , Changchien Chi‐Sin , Hung Chao‐Hung , Tung Wei‐Chih , Kee Kwong‐Ming , Chen Chien‐Hung , Hu Tsung‐Hui , Lee Chuan‐Mo , Lu Sheng‐Nan
Published: November 2009

Aim:  The aim of the present study was to assess the changes of liver stiffness (LS) and its associated factors in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) after interferon (IFN)‐based therapy.

Methods:  Patients with chronic HCV who had previously undergone at least 20 weeks of IFN‐based therapy were enrolled. The patients’ initial LS measurement was taken at the time of enrollment, and a second LS measurement was made after an interval of at least 38 weeks. LS measurement was carried out with FibroScan®, and changes of LS and its associated factors were analyzed.

Results:  One hundred and forty‐four patients, including 95 sustained virological response (SVR) patients and 49 non‐sustained virological response (NSVR) patients, were enrolled. There was a significant decrease of LS among SVR patients (median, 0.6; P < 0.001). NSVR patients showed an increase of LS (median, 0.8; P = 0.557). For SVR patients, a high initial LS was the predictive factor of a rapid reduction of LS values. However, advanced fibrosis stage before therapy, higher body mass index (BMI) and longer time remission were predictive factors for slow reduction of LS values.

Conclusions:  LS decreases in sustained responders following IFN‐based therapy in patients with chronic HCV. Advanced fibrosis, higher BMI, longer time for remission and lower initial LS value are predictive factors for a slow improvement of LS in sustained responders.
Screening of the nutritional risk of patients with gastric carcinoma before operation by NRS 2002 and its relationship with postoperative results
Authors: Guo Weiping , Ou Guangsheng , Li Xi , Huang Jianglong , Liu Jiangpei , Wei Hongbo
Published: November 2009

Aim:  To evaluate the nutritional risk of patients with gastric carcinoma using the methodologies of European Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 (NRS 2002) and its relationship with postoperative results.

Methods:  We prospectively evaluated the nutritional risk of 314 cases of gastric carcinoma patients in one center from 2004 to 2007 with NRS 2002, in accordance with China's normal body mass index (BMI), and observed its relationship with postoperative complications, mortality and length of hospital stay.

Results:  Of 337 cases, 314 (93.1%) were suitable for assessment by NRS 2002.The number of patients with a score ≥ 3 was 125 before operation, comprising 39.8% of patients with gastric carcinoma. The rate of complications (26.2%) of the preoperative nutritional risk group (NRS 2002 score ≥ 3) was higher than those in the preoperative nutritional normal group (NRS 2002 score < 3) (P < 0.05). Assessed by multivariate logistics regression analysis, the odds ratio of developing complications was 2.366 (P < 0.05) and 2.277 (P < 0.05) by NRS 2002 score and clinicopathological stage, respectively. The correlation between length of hospital stay and nutritional risk was also assessed by Pearson correlation analysis. The Pearson coefficient was 0.177 (P = 0.002).

Conclusion:  Preoperative nutrition score (NRS 2002) ≥ 3 predicted more postoperative complications and longer length of hospital stay. It indicated that preoperative nutritional support was necessary in patients with a preoperative nutritional score (NRS 2002) ≥ 3.
Prospective study on dialysis patients after total parathyroidectomy without autoimplant
Authors: CHAN HILDA WAI‐HAN , CHU KWOK‐HONG , FUNG SAMUEL KA‐SHUN , TANG HON‐LOK , LEE WILLIAM , CHEUK AU , YIM KA‐FAI , TONG MATTHEW KWOK‐LUNG , LEE KAM‐CHEONG
Published: November 2009

Aim:  Secondary hyperparathyroidism is common in chronic kidney disease. When medical treatment fails, subtotal or total parathyroidectomy with autoimplant is done but both are associated with a high recurrence rate. The third surgical strategy is total parathyroidectomy without autoimplant. We evaluate the outcomes of patients who had total parathyroidectomy with no autoimplant.

Methods:  Thirteen patients who had total parathyroidectomy without autoimplant were prospectively studied from 1998–2002. Intact parathyroid hormone, biochemistry and bone mineral densities were measured at baseline and serially. All patients had bone biopsies done preoperatively and seven had repeat bone biopsies at a mean of 37.7 months postoperatively. Histomorphometric studies were done for all bone biopsies. Patients were observed for fractures.

Results:  Five patients were on haemodialysis and eight on peritoneal dialysis. Mean duration of follow up was 68 months. Postoperatively, mean intact parathyroid hormone decreased precipitously and remained within or just above normal. Mean serum calcium phosphate product decreased and remained normal. Out of seven patients who had repeat bone biopsies, two showed reversal of hyperparathyroid bone disease to normal, two had mild hyperparathyroidism, while three had adynamic bone disease. One patient with adynamic bone disease subsequently developed biochemical recurrence of hyperparathyroidism. Serial bone densitometry showed remarkable improvement. There was no fracture.

Conclusion:  In the studied series of total parathyroidectomy without autoimplant, adynamic bone disease occurred in three out of seven repeat bone biopsies while improvement occurred in the rest. Bone mineral density was much improved and there was no fracture.
Changes in metabolic parameters following a switch to aripiprazole in Japanese patients with schizophrenia: One‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Takeuchi Hiroyoshi , Uchida Hiroyuki , Suzuki Takefumi , Watanabe Koichiro , Kashima Haruo
Published: November 2009

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate changes in metabolic parameters after switching to aripiprazole in Japanese population. In this 1‐year observation study, following a switch to aripiprazole, 32 patients with schizophrenia were observed and assessment was done of bodyweight, total cholesterol, triglyceride, serum prolactin level, and corrected QT (QTc) interval. Significant reductions were observed in these parameters other than QTc interval. Given known detrimental metabolic and hormonal effects of some atypical antipsychotics, a switch to aripiprazole may warrant serious consideration also in Asian patients who suffer those side‐effects.
Ecological processes: A key element in strategies for nature conservation
Authors: Bennett Andrew F. , Haslem Angie , Cheal David C. , Clarke Michael F. , Jones Roger N. , Koehn John D. , Lake P. Sam , Lumsden Linda F. , Lunt Ian D. , Mackey Brendan G. , Nally Ralph Mac , Menkhorst Peter W. , New Tim R. , Newell Graeme R. , O’Hara Tim , Quinn Gerry P. , Radford James Q. , Robinson Doug , Watson James E. M. , Yen Alan L.
Published: November 2009

Summary  A common approach to nature conservation is to identify and protect natural ‘assets’ such as ecosystems and threatened species. While such actions are essential, protection of assets will not be effective unless the ecological processes that sustain them are maintained. Here, we consider the role of ecological processes and the complementary perspective for conservation arising from an emphasis on process. Many kinds of ecological processes sustain biodiversity: including climatic processes, primary productivity, hydrological processes, formation of biophysical habitats, interactions between species, movements of organisms and natural disturbance regimes. Anthropogenic threats to conservation exert their influence by modifying or disrupting these processes. Such threats extend across tenures, they frequently occur offsite, they commonly induce non‐linear responses, changes may be irreversible and the full consequences may not be experienced for lengthy periods. While many managers acknowledge these considerations in principle, there is much scope for greater recognition of ecological processes in nature conservation and greater emphasis on long time‐frames and large spatial scales in conservation planning. Practical measures that promote ecological processes include: monitoring to determine the trajectory and rate of processes; incorporating surrogates for processes in conservation and restoration projects; specific interventions to manipulate and restore processes; and planning for the ecological future before options are foreclosed. The long‐term conservation of biodiversity and the well‐being of human society depend upon both the protection of natural assets and maintaining the integrity of the ecological processes that sustain them.
The effect of age on the dose of remifentanil for tracheal intubation in infants and children
Authors: HUME‐SMITH HELEN , McCORMACK JON , MONTGOMERY CAROLYNE , BRANT ROLLIN , MALHERBE STEPHAN , MEHTA DISHA , ANSERMINO J MARK
Published: November 2009

Introduction:  This study aimed to determine the age‐specific bolus dose of remifentanil (ED50) to facilitate tracheal intubation without the use of neuromuscular blocking agents.

Methods:  ASA 1–2 subjects were recruited into three groups of 0–3 months (group I), 4–12 months (group II), and 1–3 years (group III) of age. A sequential up‐and‐down design determined the remifentanil bolus dose, which was initially started at 3 mcg·kg−1 and adjusted in 1 mcg·kg−1 increments (range 1–6 mcg·kg−1). Following pretreatment with glycopyrrolate 10 μg·kg−1 and an induction dose of propofol 5 mg·kg−1, remifentanil was administered with a blinded study investigator commencing tracheal intubation after 60 s. After tracheal intubation, the time to return of spontaneous ventilation was measured. Logistic regression was used to predict the ED50 and ED95 of remifentanil.

Results:  Sixty‐four subjects were recruited. Tracheal intubation was successful at first attempt in over 90% of subjects in each age group. Satisfactory intubating conditions were achieved in 85%, 63%, and 75% of subjects in groups I, II, and III, respectively. The logistic regression results for ED50 (95% CI) were 3.1 (2.5–3.8), 3.7 (2.0–5.4), and 3.0 (2.1–3.9) mcg·kg−1, and ED95 (95% CI) were 5.0 (3.0–7.0), 9.4 (1.5–17.4), and 5.6 (2.9–8.4) mcg·kg−1 in groups I, II, and III, respectively. Infants aged 4–12 months (group II) showed a marked variability in dose response; however, the mean ED50 and ED95 were not different to groups I and III. Older children had a longer duration of apnea than infants, 331 vs 180 s (P < 0.05).

Discussion:  The ED50 of remifentanil for tracheal intubation was higher in all age groups than previously reported. Ideal intubating conditions were achieved in 50% of subjects with remifentanil doses of 3.1–3.7 mcg·kg−1. Higher doses will be required for higher success rates and with anticholinergic pretreatment, doses of up to 6 mcg·kg−1 were tolerated, without adverse effects, in two patients. Further investigation of the variability in dose response in infants and assessment of the safety this technique is warranted.
Hypnotic depth and the incidence of emergence agitation and negative postoperative behavioral changes
Authors: FAULK DEBRA J. , TWITE MARK D. , ZUK JEANNIE , PAN ZHAOXING , WALLEN BRETT , FRIESEN ROBERT H.
Published: November 2009

Background:  Emergence agitation (EA) and negative postoperative behavioral changes (NPOBC) are common in children, although the etiology remains unclear. We investigated whether longer times under deep hypnosis as measured by Bispectral Index™ (BIS) monitoring would positively correlate with a greater incidence of EA in the PACU and a greater occurrence of NPOBC in children after discharge.

Methods:  We enrolled 400 children, 1–12 years old, scheduled for dental procedures under general anesthesia. All children were induced with high concentration sevoflurane, and BIS monitoring was continuous from induction through recovery in the PACU. A BIS reading <45 was considered deep hypnosis. The presence of EA was assessed in the PACU using the Pediatric Anesthesia Emergence Delirium scale. NPOBC were assessed using the Post‐Hospital Behavior Questionnaire, completed by parents 3–5 days postoperatively. Data were analyzed using logistic regression, with a P < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results:  The incidence of EA was 27% (99/369), and the incidence of NPOBC was 8.8% (28/318). No significant differences in the incidence of EA or NPOBC were seen with respect to length of time under deep hypnosis as measured by a BIS value of <45.

Conclusion:  Our data revealed no significant correlation between the length of time under deep hypnosis (BIS < 45) and the incidence of EA or NPOBC. Within this population, these behavioral disturbances do not appear to be related to the length of time under a deep hypnotic state as measured by the BIS.
Is there thermal benefit from preoperative warming in children?
Authors: CASSEY JOHN G. , KING ROBERT A.R. , ARMSTRONG PETER
Published: November 2009

Aim:  We aimed to quantify the impact of a raised preoperative ambient temperature (Tambient) on core temperature (Tcore) after induction of anesthesia in children.

Background:  It has been suggested that prewarming of patients before anesthesia induction reduces postinduction drop in Tcore. Neither the prewarming temperature nor its duration is established for adults or children. Nevertheless, it remains common practice to either warm the operating theatre and induction room or employ radiant heaters prior to induction of anesthesia, particularly for infants and neonates. We aimed to quantify the benefit, if any, of this warming practice.

Methods:  We conducted a prospective clinical study to assess Tcore behavior in children randomized to either raised or standard ambient temperature as a prewarming technique prior to induction and until the operation commenced. We have called this ‘preoperative’ warming. Well, children scheduled for elective surgery where presurgical anesthetic duration exceeded 20 min were randomized to a Tambient of either 26 or 21°C. Esophageal temperature was monitored continuously until the operative procedure commenced.

Results:  There were 30 children in each group. Those in the warmed group (26°C) had a statistically significant higher initial Tcore (0.4°C warmer) and less drop in their Tcore (0.18°C benefit at 20 min). Although younger/lighter/shorter individuals were more likely to drop their Tcore, a warmer Tambient had only 0.1°C thermal benefit irrespective of age.

Conclusions:  There are statistically significant thermal advantages to preoperative environmental warming. This study provides data to assist the anesthetist in deciding when these are likely to be clinically relevant.
OPTIMAL AUCTIONS WHEN A SELLER IS BOUND TO SELL TO COLLUSIVE BIDDERS*
Authors: GRUYER NICOLAS
Published: November 2009

I consider optimal auctions for a seller who is bound to sell a single item to one of two potential buyers, organized in a ‘well‐coordinated’ cartel. I show that, even though the seller cannot deter collusion, he can optimally accommodate it by employing a simple mechanism which imposes an inefficient allocation on the bidders unless they pay a sufficiently high amount to avoid it.
COLLUSION AND RESEARCH JOINT VENTURES*
Authors: MIYAGIWA KAZ
Published: November 2009

I examine the question whether cooperation in R&D among firms producing similar products leads to product market collusion. Suppose that firms engage in a stochastic R&D race while maintaining the collusive equilibrium in a repeated‐game framework. Innovation under non‐cooperative R&D leads to an inter‐firm asymmetry, destabilizing collusion in pre‐discovery and post‐discovery periods. Innovation sharing under cooperative R&D preserves the symmetry and also increases total profit, thereby facilitating collusion. However, welfare may increase with cooperative R&D. I also examine the condition for collusion under licensing and compare the results.
ON THE ANTICOMPETITIVE EFFECT OF EXCLUSIVE DEALING WHEN ENTRY BY MERGER IS POSSIBLE*
Authors: FUMAGALLI CHIARA , MOTTA MASSIMO , PERSSON LARS
Published: November 2009

We extend the literature on exclusive dealing by allowing the incumbent and the potential entrant to merge. This uncovers new effects. First, exclusive dealing can be used to improve the incumbent's bargaining position in the merger negotiation. Second, the incumbent finds it easier to elicit the buyer's acceptance of exclusivity. Third, despite allowing the more efficient technology to find its way into the industry, exclusive dealing reduces welfare because (i) it may trigger entry through merger whereas independent entry would be socially optimal and (ii) it may deter entry altogether.
Outsourcing Myths and Workers’ Compensation Claims Administration
Authors: Purse Kevin
Published: November 2009

The outsourcing of claims administration is a feature of some Australian workers’ compensation jurisdictions. While the benefits of outsourcing in this area of public administration have often been asserted there has been a lack of research into these claims. In this article the South Australian workers’ compensation scheme is used as a case study to address whether the supposed benefits of outsourcing are soundly based. A number of other issues associated with the outsourced claims management environment are also considered as they have had an important bearing on the scheme's performance. The main finding to emerge is that outsourcing has failed to meet financial and other key objectives. Outsourcing has also created new tensions that have added to the complexities of scheme management. In light of these findings, there is a strong case that the scheme's business model should be recalibrated to facilitate a return to in‐sourced claims management.
Britain's Oddest Election?
Authors: KELLNER PETER
Published: November 2009

Fringe political parties did well in the European Parliament elections in June 2005. The British National party won their first seats; altogether, four in ten British voters supported a party not represented in the House of Commons at Westminster. YouGov questioned more than 32,000 electors at the time of the election, in order to find out who voted for each party and why: the sample was big enough to enable robust analysis to be done on the BNP, UKIP and Green vote, as well as the supporters of Labour, the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats. YouGov's findings show that there was disillusionment with the traditional main parties, and fears for the future, that were felt by voters across the political spectrum, and not just the supporters of the fringe parties.
Can the Boundary Commissions Help the Conservative Party? Constituency Size and Electoral Bias in the United Kingdom
Authors: JOHNSTON RON , MCLEAN IAIN , PATTIE CHARLES , ROSSITER DAVID
Published: November 2009

As part of a strategy to remove perceived biases operating against it in the system used for elections to the House of Commons, the British Conservative party is promoting a revision of the rules used by the Boundary Commissions to ensure greater equality in constituency electorates. A Bill designed to achieve this—and also to reduce the size of the House—was introduced to the House of Lords in 2007. This paper critiques that Bill and suggests an alternative formulation that would better achieve the goal, whilst identifying a number of operational difficulties that its implementation would involve.
An Elected Upper House and Other Fallacies
Authors: PEARCE EDWARD
Published: November 2009

All fashionable political talk is of an elected House of Lords. Doing this smart, new unthought‐out thing, says Edward Pearce, means dissolving the reliably rebellious upper house regularly rejecting bad bills from Tory and Labour governments, for a House as submissive as the Commons. Second‐line politicians will replace the difficult individual people, soldiers, doctors, academics, scientists, assorted and distinguished experts who, by lucky muddle, go there today.

Far better, he says, to abolish actual titles which create a false idea of privilege, but continue drawing upon independent professional specialists. Also, Ministers should be barred from the pernicious Mandelson Effect, of making an instant Minister by life‐ennoblement, huge powers conferred without a voter in sight. An upper house called ‘The Upper House’, chosen as now for competence, will be a House of Commoners, of Independence, of Contradiction. Elected Party‐liners under guidance would be a House of Sheep.
In Extremis: a Self‐defeating Element in the ‘Preventing Violent Extremism’ Strategy
Authors: STEVENS DAVID
Published: November 2009

The main policy reaction to the terrorist attacks of 7/7 and 21/7 of 2005 has been the development of the £6 million ‘Preventing Violent Extremism’ (PVE) initiative which aims, as part of the government's broader counter‐terrorism strategy (CONTEST), to tackle support for, and the promotion of, violent Islamist ideologies within British society. One crucial component of this strategy is providing support for Muslim groups and individuals to tackle radicalisation and extremism directly at the local level. Funding and charitable status for mosques, Muslim community and youth groups and initiatives, ‘forums against extremism’, anti‐extremism ‘road shows’, and the training of imams are included as part of this strategy. This article argues that this aspect of PVE is not only ill‐advised, but potentially deeply counter‐productive. It takes issue with two reasons that inform the PVE strategy: first, that what motivates individuals to join extremist groups are the religious ideas themselves; second, that government intervention or involvement is an effective method for rendering the moderate antidote attractive. Arguably, neither of these assumptions is warranted in the face of contrary evidence. Consequently, this arm of PVE is, at best, barking up the wrong tree; at worst, fuelling extremism.
If Language Is a Complex Adaptive System, What Is Language Assessment?
Authors: Mislevy Robert J. , Yin Chengbin
Published: November 2009

Individuals’ use of language in contexts emerges from second‐to‐second processes of activating and integrating traces of past experiences—an interactionist view compatible with the study of language as a complex adaptive system but quite different from the trait‐based framework through which measurement specialists investigate validity, establish reliability, and ensure fairness of assessments. This article discusses assessment arguments from an interactionist perspective. We argue that the familiar concepts and methods of assessment that evolved under a trait perspective can be gainfully reconceived in terms of the finer‐grained perspective of interactionism, and we illustrate how key ideas relate to familiar practices in language testing.
Cerebrospinal fluid and serum antibodies against neurofilaments in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Fialová L. , Švarcová J. , Bartos A. , Ridzoň P. , Malbohan I. , Keller O. , Rusina R.
Published: November 2009

Background: The aim of the study was to assess autoimmune involvement in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Methods: We measured IgG antibodies against light (NFL) and medium (NFM) subunits of neurofilaments using ELISA in paired cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum samples from 38 ALS patients and 20 controls.

Results: Serum levels of anti‐NFL were higher in ALS patients than in controls (P < 0.005). Serum anti‐NFL antibodies and intrathecal anti‐NFM antibodies were related to patient disability (serum anti‐NFL:P < 0.05; intrathecal anti‐NFM:P < 0.05). Anti‐NFL levels were significantly correlated with anti‐NFM levels in ALS (P < 0.001) and the control group (P < 0.0001) in the CSF, but not in serum. Anti‐NFL and anti‐NFM antibodies significantly correlated between serum and CSF in the ALS group (anti‐NFL:P < 0.0001; anti‐NFM:P < 0.001) and in the control group (anti‐NFL:P < 0.05; anti‐NFM:P < 0.05).

Conclusions: Autoimmune humoral response to neurocytoskeletal proteins is associated with ALS.
Lipid profile in normal weight migraineurs – evidence for cardiovascular risk
Authors: Gruber H. ‐J. , Bernecker C. , Pailer S. , Lechner A. , Horejsi R. , Möller R. , Fazekas F. , Truschnig‐Wilders M.
Published: November 2009

Background:  Recent studies suggest that migraine is associated with metabolic disorders. In particular, migraine may be associated with cardiovascular risk; however, an association of migraine with cardiovascular risk factors like hypercholesterolemia has been proposed, but previous studies have yielded in part conflicting results. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the lipid profile in normal weight migraine patients.

Methods:  One hundred thirty‐six probands participated in this study. The study group was divided into normal weight migraineurs and control groups, including normal weight controls, obese and overweight controls and migraineurs. Various parameters of the lipid metabolism and inflammatory parameters were investigated.

Results:  We found significant increased cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) and oxidized LDL‐C in normal weight migraineurs. Increased oxidized LDL‐C was associated with a 7.93‐fold increased risk for migraine. Alterations in the lipid profile were not accompanied by increased inflammatory parameters.

Conclusions:  We show here that normal weight migraineurs exhibit independent of aura symptoms an atherogenic lipid profile, which shares common features with obesity‐related lipid alterations. Our data suggest that migraine is associated with a higher risk for cardiovascular disease and its clinical consequences.
Cerebral perfusion‐CT patterns following seizure
Authors: Gelfand J. M. , Wintermark M. , Josephson S. A.
Published: November 2009

Background:  Cerebral perfusion‐CT (PCT) is commonly used to image patients with suspected stroke, but PCT may also be useful in detecting abnormalities following seizure.

Methods:  We retrospectively identified patients who presented to our stroke center between 2000 and 2008 with acute, transient neurological deficits because of seizure and received PCT imaging within 72 h. We compared the group of seizure patients with abnormal post‐ictal PCT to a group of seizure patients with normal post‐ictal PCT. Patients were excluded from analysis if the seizure occurred secondary to an acute process known to alter cerebral perfusion.

Results:  Of 27 patients with acute post‐ictal neurological deficits, PCT was abnormal in 10 (37%) and normal in 17 (63%). The most common post‐ictal perfusion abnormality, seen in eight of 10 patients, was focal hypoperfusion, with prolonged mean transit time (MTT) and decreased cerebral blood flow and cerebral blood volume, in a cortical ribbon pattern, multi‐lobar or holo‐hemispheric distribution, sparing the basal ganglia. CT Angiography (CTA) showed no corresponding large vessel pathology. Two other PCT abnormalities – focal hyperperfusion and an isolated prolonged MTT – were also observed in single patients. Imaging within 2 h after seizure termination was significantly associated with finding a post‐ictal PCT abnormality (P < 0.039).

Conclusions:  Post‐ictal cerebral PCT abnormalities are relatively common in patients early after seizure. When PCT abnormalities occur in atypical vascular distributions – and the CTA shows no corresponding large vessel occlusions – seizure should be considered as a diagnostic possibility prior to giving acute stroke therapy.
Epilepsy surgery in China: past, present, and future
Authors: Xu Lunshan , Xu Minhui
Published: November 2009

Since the 1990s, China has experienced a boom in epilepsy surgery. Five cities have established epilepsy centers, and at least one hospital in each of the 32 provinces provides epilepsy surgical services. Epilepsy surgery in China has benefited from the availability of advanced non‐invasive diagnostic tools to delineate epileptogenic lesions and epilepsy functional deficits, increased medical and social acceptance of epilepsy surgery, and collaborations with the International League Against Epilepsy, the International Bureau for Epilepsy, and international epilepsy centers. However, national demand for epilepsy surgery still far exceeds supply, and epilepsy surgery is underutilized in many economically underdeveloped provinces. This paper analyzes the current progress of epilepsy surgery in China and details necessary steps for future development. Specifically, the growing need for standardized quality control, multidisciplinary research, and continued worldwide collaboration is addressed. Surgical therapy for epilepsy has experienced rapid growth in recent years, but many patients with active epilepsy did not receive appropriate treatment in China. Improved epilepsy education remains an important tool to correct the treatment gap. Epilepsy surgery has rapidly grown in China. The establishment of additional epilepsy centers, enhancement of multidisciplinary cooperation, standardization of surgical indications and techniques, increased public education, and government recognition of epilepsy treatment as a medical priority are interventions that will improve the surgical treatment of people with epilepsy in China.
Fossil spiders
Authors: Selden Paul A. , Penney David
Published: November 2009

Over the last three decades, the fossil record of spiders has increased from being previously biased towards Tertiary ambers and a few dubious earlier records, to one which reveals a much greater diversity in the Mesozoic, with many of the modern families present in that era, and with clearer evidence of the evolutionary history of the group. We here record the history of palaeoarachnology and the major breakthroughs which form the basis of studies on fossil spiders. Understanding the preservation and taphonomic history of spider fossils is crucial to interpretation of fossil spider morphology. We also review the more recent descriptions of fossil spiders and the effect these discoveries have had on the phylogenetic tree of spiders. We discuss some features of the evolutionary history of spiders and present ideas for future work.
How do plants “notice” attack by herbivorous arthropods?
Authors: Hilker Monika , Meiners Torsten
Published: November 2009

Precise and deep comprehension of plant responses to herbivorous arthropods requires detailed knowledge of how a plant “notices” the attack. Herbivore attack is not restricted to plant wounding by feeding, but instead different phases of attack that elicit a plant response need to be distinguished: touch, oviposition and feeding. Touch, secretions released with eggs and regurgitate delivered during feeding may act in concert as elicitors of plant defence. Here, we discuss the current knowledge of what a plant “notices” during the different phases of herbivore attack and how it responds at the molecular, physiological and ecological level. Understanding the mechanisms of plant responses to the different phases of herbivore attack will be a key challenge in unravelling the complex communication pathways between plants and herbivores.
The mast cell: an evolutionary perspective
Authors: Crivellato Enrico , Ribatti Domenico
Published: November 2009

This review article is an attempt to trace the evolution of mast cells (MCs). These immune cells have been identified in all vertebrate classes as single‐lobed cells containing variable amounts of membrane‐bound secretory granules which store a large series of mediators, namely histamine, proteases, cytokines and growth factors. Other MC features, at least in mammals, are the c‐kit receptor for the stem cell factor and the high‐affinity receptor, FcεRI, for immunoglobulin E (IgE). The c‐kit receptor also has been identified in fish MCs. The FcεRI receptor seems to be a more recent acquisition in MC phylogenesis given that IgE originated in mammalian species. Tryptase and histamine have also been recognized in MCs of teleost fish. Thus, a cell population with the overall characteristics of higher vertebrate MCs is identifiable in the most evolutionarily advanced fish species. Two potential MC progenitors have been identified in ascidians (urochordates which appeared approximately 500 million years ago): the basophil/MC‐like granular haemocyte and the test cell. Both contain histamine and heparin, and provide defensive functions. Some granular haemocytes in Arthropoda also closely approximate the ultrastructure of modern MCs. The origin of MCs is probably to be found in a leukocyte ancestor operating in the context of a primitive local innate immunity and involved in phagocytic and killing activity against pathogens. From this type of defensive cell, the MC phylogenetic progenitor evolved into a tissue regulatory and remodelling cell, which was incorporated into the networks of recombinase activating genes (RAG)‐mediated adaptive immunity in the Cambrian era, some 550 million years ago. Early MCs probably appeared in the last common ancestor we shared with hagfish, lamprey and sharks about 450‐500 million years ago.
The effect of cleft lip on socio‐emotional functioning in school‐aged children
Authors: Murray Lynne , Arteche Adriane , Bingley Caroline , Hentges Françoise , Bishop Dorothy V.M. , Dalton Louise , Goodacre Tim , Hill Jonathan ,   the Cleft Lip and Palate Study team
Published: November 2009

Background: Children with cleft lip are known to be at raised risk for socio‐emotional difficulties, but the nature of these problems and their causes are incompletely understood; longitudinal studies are required that include comprehensive assessment of child functioning, and consideration of developmental mechanisms.

Method: Children with cleft lip (with and without cleft palate) (N = 93) and controls (N = 77), previously studied through infancy, were followed up at 7 years, and their socio‐emotional functioning assessed using teacher and maternal reports, observations of social interactions, and child social representations (doll play). Direct and moderating effects of infant attachment and current parenting were investigated, as was the role of child communication difficulties and attractiveness.

Results: Children with clefts had raised rates of teacher‐reported social problems, and anxious and withdrawn‐depressed behaviour; direct observations and child representations also revealed difficulties in social relationships. Child communication problems largely accounted for these effects, especially in children with cleft palate as well as cleft lip. Insecure attachment contributed to risk in both index and control groups, and a poorer current parenting environment exacerbated the difficulties of those with clefts.

Conclusions: Children with clefts are at raised risk for socio‐emotional difficulties in the school years; clinical interventions should focus on communication problems and supporting parenting; specific interventions around the transition to school may be required. More generally, the findings reflect the importance of communication skills for children’s peer relations.
Light induces Fos expression via extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1/2 in melanopsin‐expressing PC12 cells
Authors: Moldrup Marie‐Louise , Georg Birgitte , Falktoft Birgitte , Mortensen Rikke , Hansen Jakob Lerche , Fahrenkrug Jan
Published: November 2009

J. Neurochem. (2010) 112, 797–806.

The photopigment melanopsin is expressed in a subtype of mammalian ganglion cells in the retina that project to the circadian clock in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus to mediate non‐visual light information. Melanopsin renders these retinal ganglion cells intrinsically photosensitive and the cells respond to light by a membrane depolarization and induction of the immediate early response gene Fos. Previous studies showed that the light activated melanopsin‐induced signaling, the phototransduction, leading to depolarization of the membrane resembles the invertebrate opsins, which involves a Gαq/11 coupled phospholipase C activation. However, the signaling proteins mediating melanopsin‐induced Fos expression are unresolved. In this study, we examined the phototransduction leading to Fos expression in melanopsin‐transfected PC12 cells. A pivotal role of the extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) was found as pharmacological blockage of this kinase suppressed the light‐induced Fos expression. Illumination increased the inositol phosphate turnover and induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38 but not the c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase. The Gαq/11 protein inhibitor YM254890 attenuated these intracellular light responses. Our data strongly indicate that Gαq/11‐mediated ERK1/2 activation is essential for expression of Fos upon illumination of melanopsin‐expressing PC12 cells.
Presence of conspecifics and their odor‐impregnated objects reverse stress‐decreased neurogenesis in mouse dentate gyrus
Authors: Cherng Chianfang G. , Lin Pei‐Syuan , Chuang Jia‐Ying , Chang Wan‐Ting , Lee Yung‐Shuan , Kao Gour‐Shenq , Lai Yu‐Ting , Yu Lung
Published: November 2009

J. Neurochem. (2010) 112, 1138–1146.

Stress and corticosterone level are thought to negatively associate with neurogenesis in mammalian brains. Social support can diminish many adverse effects of stress. The present study examined the modulating effect of social support on stress‐decreased cell proliferation and neuronal differentiation in a mouse model. A randomly‐scheduled foot shock followed by restraint in water was used as a profound stress‐provoking regimen. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) staining was used to indicate newly mitotic cells and doublecortin (DCx) staining was used to reveal immature neurons. This stress‐provoking regimen rapidly decreased BrdU‐ and BrdU/DCx‐labeled cells in the dentate gyrus. However, such a stress‐provoking regimen did not affect the number of these labeled cells in the subventricular zone. Familiar and unfamiliar mice’ company throughout the stress regimen completely reversed the stress‐decreased cell proliferation and neuronal genesis in the dentate gyrus. Likewise, both odor‐familiar (from their home cages) and ‐unfamiliar (from cages other than their home cages) wooden blocks completely reversed the stress‐decreased BrdU/DCx‐labeled cells in the dentate gyrus. In contrast, wooden blocks free of any odor and camphor odor alone failed to affect the stress‐decreased BrdU‐ or BrdU/DCx‐labeled cells. Finally, we showed that conspecifics or their odors during the stress regimen reversed the stress‐decreased cell proliferation and neuronal differentiation in the dentate gyrus via a corticosterone‐independent mechanism. We conclude that stress and familiarity distinctively affect neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus and subventricular zone. Conspecific companions or presence of their odors reverse stress‐decreased neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus, suggesting that social support during stress exposure may improve neurogenesis‐related psychological functions.