bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE MODERN RICARDIAN EQUIVALENCE THEOREM: DRAWING THE WRONG CONCLUSIONS FROM DAVID RICARDO’S ANALYSIS
Authors: AHIAKPOR JAMES C.W.
Published: January 2013

The modern Ricardian equivalence theorem focuses on the intertemporal equivalence between taxation and bond financing of government expenditures that David Ricardo considered practically irrelevant, rather than their contemporaneous equivalence in terms of the opportunity cost of government spending. Relying upon the implausible assumption of each individual’s future tax-capitalization behavior that Ricardo explicitly rejected, the modern Ricardian equivalence theorem reaches the exact opposite conclusions about government deficit spending than Ricardo argued. This paper explains these fundamental problems with the modern Ricardian equivalence proposition and shows an alternative method of arguing Robert Barro’s original point about the inefficacy of Keynesian deficit spending.
Working Memory and Intelligence Are Associated with Victoria Symptom Validity Test Hard Item Performance in Patients With Intractable Epilepsy
Authors: Keary Therese A. , Frazier Thomas W. , Belzile Catherine J. , Chapin Jessica S. , Naugle Richard I. , Najm Imad M. , Busch Robyn M.
Published: January 2013

Loring et al. (Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology, 2005:27;610–617) observed relationships between VSVT hard item performance and IQ and memory indices in epilepsy surgical candidates, with a potential confound of low FSIQ on VSVT performance. The present study replicated the Loring et al. study in a larger sample and extended their findings by examining the relationships among VSVT performance, FSIQ, and working memory. A total of 404 patients with medically intractable epilepsy completed a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment. Differences in WAIS-III and WMS-III performance were examined as a function of VSVT hard score categories as determined by Grote et al. (2000)—that is,valid, >20/24;questionable, 18–20; orinvalid, <18. Quantile regression models were constructed to compare the strength of the relationship between FSIQ and VSVT at various points of the FSIQ distribution. Linear regression analyses examined working memory as a potential mediator between FSIQ and VSVT performance. Theinvalidgroup performed more poorly than thevalidandquestionablegroups on multiple measures of intelligence and memory. The strength of the relationship between FSIQ and VSVT hard item performance decreased as FSIQ increased, and working memory mediated this relationship. Results suggest VSVT hard item scores may be impacted by working memory difficulties and/or low intellectual functioning. (JINS, 2013,19, 1–10)
Current Practice and Attitudes of Australian Obstetricians Toward Population-Based Carrier Screening for Inherited Conditions
Authors: Stark Zornitza , Massie John , McClaren Belinda , Ioannou Liane , Cousens Nicole , Lewis Sharon , Metcalfe Sylvia , Delatycki Martin B.
Published: January 2013

An anonymous survey of Australian Fellows of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists was conducted with the aim of understanding current practice and attitudes toward population-based carrier screening for inherited conditions in the setting of routine pregnancy care. Of 1,121 Fellows invited to complete the online questionnaire by e-mail, 237 (21%) responded, and of these 156 were practicing obstetricians and completed the whole survey. Of the respondents, 83% expressed support for population-based carrier screening for at least some conditions, with 97% supporting carrier screening for β-thalassaemia, and 83% supporting carrier screening for cystic fibrosis (CF). A small proportion of obstetricians reported offering carrier screening as part of routine pregnancy care (20% for β-thalassaemia, 8% for CF, 5% for fragile X syndrome, and 2% for spinal muscular atrophy). The main practical barriers identified for screening were cost, time constraints, and availability of supporting services. Addressing these issues is crucial for the successful implementation of population-based carrier screening programs in Australia and internationally.
Polyamine production is downstream and upstream of oncogenic PI3K signalling and contributes to tumour cell growth
Authors: Rajeeve Vinothini , Pearce Wayne , Cascante Marta , Vanhaesebroeck Bart , Cutillas Pedro R.
Published: January 2013

PI3K (phosphoinositide 3-kinase) signalling pathways regulate a large array of cell biological functions in normal and cancer cells. In the present study we investigated the involvement of PI3K in modulating small molecule metabolism. A LC (liquid chromatography)-MS screen in colorectal cancer cell lines isogenic for oncogenic PIK3CA mutations revealed an association between PI3K activation and the levels of polyamine pathway metabolites, including 5-methylthioadenosine, putrescine and spermidine. Pharmacological inhibition confirmed that the PI3K pathway controls polyamine production. Despite inducing a decrease in PKB (protein kinase B)/Akt phosphorylation, spermidine promoted cell survival and opposed the anti-proliferative effects of PI3K inhibitors. Conversely, polyamine depletion by an ornithine decarboxylase inhibitor enhanced PKB/Akt phosphorylation, but suppressed cell survival. These results suggest that spermidine mediates cell proliferation and survival downstream of PI3K/Akt and indicate that these two biochemical pathways control each other's activities, highlighting a mechanism by which small molecule metabolism feeds back to regulate kinase signalling. Consistent with this feedback loop having a functional role in these cell models, pharmacological inhibitors of PI3K and ornithine decarboxylase potentiated each other in inhibiting tumour growth in a xenograft model. The results of the present study support the notion that the modulation of spermidine concentrations may be a previously unrecognized mechanism by which PI3K sustains chronic proliferation of cancer cells.
Renin inhibition in the treatment of diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Komers Radko
Published: January 2013

Inhibition of the RAAS (renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system) plays a pivotal role in the prevention and treatment of diabetic nephropathy and a spectrum of other proteinuric kidney diseases. Despite documented beneficial effects of RAAS inhibitors in diabetic patients with nephropathy, reversal of the progressive course of this disorder or at least long-term stabilization of renal function are often difficult to achieve, and many patients still progress to end-stage renal disease. Incomplete inhibition of the RAAS has been postulated as one of reasons for unsatisfactory therapeutic responses to RAAS inhibition in some patients. Inhibition of renin, a rate-limiting step in the RAAS activation cascade, could overcome at least some of the abovementioned problems associated with the treatment with traditional RAAS inhibitors. The present review focuses on experimental and clinical studies evaluating the two principal approaches to renin inhibition, namely direct renin inhibition with aliskiren and inhibition of the (pro)renin receptor. Moreover, the possibilities of renin inhibition and nephroprotection by interventions primarily aiming at non-RAAS targets, such as vitamin D, urocortins or inhibition of the succinate receptor GPR91 and cyclo-oxygenase-2, are also discussed.
Making Government Liquid: Shifts in Governance Using Financialisation as a Political Device
Authors: du Gay Paul , Millo Yuval , Tuck Penelope
Published: January 2013

The financialised character of contemporary rationalities of public governance has been the subject of increased attention within a range of disciplinary and interdisciplinary fields. With this paper we propose a particular analytical framework, focused on the notion of ‘governance devices’, for understanding the processes that underpin financialised governance and, more fundamentally, maintain the connections between markets and politics. Deploying three distinct cases, we indicate that these devices transcend divisions between the actor and the device and create a different form of agency—an assemblage. We argue that understanding such assemblages—their emergence, activity, and, frequently, their failures—opens a window on analysing the nature of contemporary forms of financialised governance as a technosocial system. In so doing we suggest that the governance devices approach can offer a way of challenging contemporary governance orthodoxies, retracing governments' lost responsibilities and resurfacing their ‘core tasks’.
Water Scarcity, Conflict, and Migration: A Comparative Analysis and Reappraisal
Authors: Selby Jan , Hoffmann Clemens
Published: January 2013

How should we characterise the relations between environmental scarcity, conflict, and migration? Most academic and policy analyses conclude that scarcities of environmental resources can have significant impacts upon conflict and migration, and claim or imply that within the context of accelerating global environmental changes these impacts are likely to become more significant still. Many analyses admittedly recognise that these impacts are often indirect rather than direct and that there exist multiple ‘drivers’ of conflict and migration, of which environmental stresses are but one. We argue that even these qualifications do not go far enough, however: they still overstate the current and likely future significance of environmental changes and stresses in contributing to conflict and migration and underemphasise a far more important causal pathway—from conflict and migration to environmental vulnerabilities. These arguments are advanced via a comparative analysis of water—migration—conflict linkages in Cyprus and Israel and the West Bank and Gaza.
Environmental Change and Migration: Legal and Political Frameworks
Authors: Martin Susan F
Published: January 2013

With this paper I focus on international legal norms and organizational roles and relations applicable to migration induced by environmental change. I examine movements stemming directly and indirectly from environmental factors related to climate change—including, for example, movements resulting from intensified drought and desertification affecting livelihoods, rising sea levels, intensified acute natural disasters, and competition for resources that result in intensified conflict. The analysis focuses on the extent to which legal and institutional responses affect patterns of mobility, especially in slow-onset situations, and the extent to which governance, more generally, affects the likelihood that people will migrate as a result of environmental factors, especially in humanitarian emergencies. I conclude that immigration policies, governance, and the level of development in affected countries play a crucial role in determining the responses to natural hazards and conflict. They also help determine if migration poses technical or managerial challenges or presents political challenges. Given the current gaps in appropriate migration policies, more attention needs to be placed on identifying and testing new frameworks for managing potential movements. Attention needs to be given to both sides of the environment and migration nexus: (1) identifying adaptation strategies that allow people to remain where they currently live and work; and (2) identifying migration and relocation strategies that protect people's lives and livelihoods when they are unable to remain.
Migration and Environmental Change in International Governance: The Case of the European Union
Authors: Geddes Andrew , Somerville William
Published: January 2013

With this paper we analyse and assess the role of the European Union (EU) in the governance of migration linked to environmental change. We trace the emergence of migration linked to environmental change as an issue on the EU agenda and examine both issue definition and the institutional location of EU responses. The EU is identified as a particularly significant potential actor in the broader debate about environmental change and migration, as it is the world's most developed form of regionalised supranational governance with responsibilities in the areas of both environmental and migration policy, albeit with little connection made, as yet, between the two. We show that the relationship between migration and environmental change emerged as an issue for the EU's foreign policy community before becoming part of the EU's ‘Global Approach to Migration and Mobility’. We argue that there is a compelling argument for consideration of migration and environmental change in the context of adaptation and development policies, as well as broader debate and contestation of the meaning of these policies. This involves a rethink of some of the precepts and practices informing EU migration and asylum policy.
Migration, Environmental Change, and the ‘Challenges of Governance’
Authors: Geddes Andrew , Adger W Neil , Arnell Nigel W , Black Richard , Thomas David S G
Published: January 2013

This paper provides a framework for the theme issue by exploring links between environmental change and human migration. We review evidence that demonstrates that millions of people have moved or are likely to move towards and not away from environmental risk and hazard by moving from rural areas to rapidly growing urban areas. Moreover, some people may choose not to move or be unable to move. Environmental change may further erode household resources in such a way that migration becomes less and not more likely, even in the context of quite significant environmental change posing serious threats to the sustainability of livelihoods. This creates the possibility that populations will be trapped in areas that expose them to serious risk. We argue that the links between environmental change, migration, and governance are of significant importance, and directly influence the modes and efficacy of migration governance at different levels.
Production of good-quality blastocyst embryos following IVF of ovine oocytes vitrified at the germinal vesicle stage using a cryoloop
Authors: Moawad Adel R. , Zhu Jie , Choi Inchul , Amarnath Dasari , Chen Wenchao , Campbell Keith H. S.
Published: January 2013

The cryopreservation of immature oocytes at the germinal vesicle (GV) stage would create an easily accessible, non-seasonal source of female gametes for research and reproduction. The present study investigated the ability of ovine oocytes vitrified at the GV stage using a cryoloop to be subsequently matured, fertilised and cultured in vitro to blastocyst-stage embryos. Selected cumulus–oocyte complexes obtained from mature ewes at the time of death were randomly divided into vitrified, toxicity and control groups. Following vitrification and warming, viable oocytes were matured in vitro for 24 h. Matured oocytes were either evaluated for nuclear maturation, spindle and chromosome configuration or fertilised and cultured in vitro for 7 days. No significant differences were observed in the frequencies of IVM (oocytes at the MII stage), oocytes with normal spindle and chromatin configuration and fertilised oocytes among the three groups. Cleavage at 24 and 48 h post insemination was significantly decreased (P < 0.01) in vitrified oocytes. No significant differences were observed in the proportion of blastocyst development between vitrified and control groups (29.4% v. 45.1%, respectively). No significant differences were observed in total cell numbers, the number of apoptotic nuclei or the proportion of diploid embryos among the three groups. In conclusion, we report for the first time that ovine oocytes vitrified at the GV stage using a cryoloop have the ability to be matured, fertilised and subsequently developed in vitro to produce good-quality blastocyst embryos at frequencies comparable to those obtained using fresh oocytes.
Maternal care in the Tasmanian echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus setosus)
Authors: Morrow Gemma E. , Nicol Stewart C.
Published: January 2013

Parental care is central to the differences in reproductive behaviour and energy expenditure between males and females, and it is therefore crucial for understanding animal mating systems. We investigated post-gestation maternal care in a wild population of short-beaked echidnas (Tachyglossus aculeatus) in the Tasmanian midlands using a combination of external temperature loggers and motion-triggered infrared cameras. For the first few weeks of early lactation mothers do not leave their nursery burrow, which they keep at a stable and warm temperature, resulting in a greater rate of maternal mass loss during the period of maternal burrow confinement than during hibernation. However, after lactating mothers recommence feeding, they raise a young to ~1.5 kg on a diet of their milk while increasing their own body mass by a similar amount. Weaning in our population appears not to be abrupt as there is a period where young echidnas begin exploratory foraging while their mother is still lactating. After young are weaned and abandon the nursery burrow, there appear to be no further associations between mothers and young despite young echidnas remaining within their mother’s home range for the first 12 months of their life. Female echidnas time reproductive events with increases in ecosystem productivity, so that young are weaned at a time of maximum food abundance.
Style in nineteenth century fiction
Authors: Egbert Jesse
Published: January 2013

Recent years have seen substantial advances in ‘corpus stylistics’, which is the use of corpora and computational techniques to study literary style. Corpus stylistics has produced analyses of otherwise imperceptible features of literary style. However, studies in corpus stylistics have rarely considered the full set of core linguistic features. The present study explores literary style through the application of Multi-Dimensional analysis. Stylistic variation along three dimensions is accounted for using a large, principled corpus of fiction. The dimensions of variation are interpreted as ‘Thought Presentation versus Description’, ‘Abstract Exposition versus Concrete Action’, and ‘Dialogue versus Narrative’. These three dimensions are then used to compare the styles of nineteenth-century fiction between authors, and the range of stylistic variation among the novels of individual authors. The findings are interpreted qualitatively and with reference to previous analyses of author style.
Samara Reck-Peterson: Dynein defies expectations
Authors: Sedwick Caitlin
Published: January 2013

Reck-Peterson studies the mechanism and regulation of dynein’s motor activity.
BRCA1 loss activates cathepsin L–mediated degradation of 53BP1 in breast cancer cells
Authors: Grotsky David A. , Gonzalez-Suarez Ignacio , Novell Anna , Neumann Martin A. , Yaddanapudi Sree C. , Croke Monica , Martinez-Alonso Montserrat , Redwood Abena B. , Ortega-Martinez Sylvia , Feng Zhihui , Lerma Enrique , Ramon y Cajal Teresa , Zhang Junran , Matias-Guiu Xavier , Dusso Adriana , Gonzalo Susana
Published: January 2013

Loss of 53BP1 rescues BRCA1 deficiency and is associated with BRCA1-deficient and triple-negative breast cancers (TNBC) and with resistance to genotoxic drugs. The mechanisms responsible for decreased 53BP1 transcript and protein levels in tumors remain unknown. Here, we demonstrate that BRCA1 loss activates cathepsin L (CTSL)–mediated degradation of 53BP1. Activation of this pathway rescued homologous recombination repair and allowed BRCA1-deficient cells to bypass growth arrest. Importantly, depletion or inhibition of CTSL with vitamin D or specific inhibitors stabilized 53BP1 and increased genomic instability in response to radiation and poly(adenosine diphosphate–ribose) polymerase inhibitors, compromising proliferation. Analysis of human breast tumors identified nuclear CTSL as a positive biomarker for TNBC, which correlated inversely with 53BP1. Importantly, nuclear levels of CTSL, vitamin D receptor, and 53BP1 emerged as a novel triple biomarker signature for stratification of patients with BRCA1-mutated tumors and TNBC, with potential predictive value for drug response. We identify here a novel pathway with prospective relevance for diagnosis and customization of breast cancer therapy.
B-Raf is required for positive selection and survival of DP cells, but not for negative selection of SP cells
Authors: Dillon Tara J. , Takahashi Maho , Li Yanping , Tavisala Srilatha , Murray Susan E. , Moran Amy E. , Parker David C. , Stork Philip J. S.
Published: January 2013

The duration of signaling through the MAP kinase (or ERK pathway) cascade has been implicated in thymic development, particularly positive and negative selection. In T cells, two isoforms of the MAP kinase kinase kinase Raf function to transmit signals from the T-cell receptor to ERK: C-Raf and B-Raf. In this study, we conditionally ablated B-Raf expression within thymocytes to assess the effects on ERK activation and thymocyte development. The complete loss of B-Raf is accompanied by a dramatic loss of ERK activation in both the double positive (DP) and single positive (SP) thymocytes, as well as peripheral splenocytes. There was a significant decrease in the cellularity of KO thymi, largely due to a loss of pre-selected DP cells, a decrease in DP cells undergoing positive selection, and a defect in SP maturation. B-Raf plays significant roles in survival of DP thymocytes and function of SP cells in the periphery. Surprisingly, we saw no effect of B-Raf deficiency on negative selection of autoreactive SP thymocytes, despite the greatly reduced ERK activation in these cells.
A Dynamic State-Space Model of Coded Political Texts
Authors: Elff Martin
Published: January 2013

This article presents a new method of reconstructing actors' political positions from coded political texts. It is based on a model that combines a dynamic perspective on actors' political positions with a probabilistic account of how these positions are translated into emphases of policy topics in political texts. In the article it is shown how model parameters can be estimated based on a maximum marginal likelihood principle and how political actors' positions can be reconstructed using empirical Bayes techniques. For this purpose, a Monte Carlo Expectation Maximization algorithm is used that employs independent sample techniques with automatic Monte Carlo sample size adjustment. An example application is given by estimating a model of an economic policy space and a noneconomic policy space based on the data from the Comparative Manifesto Project. Parties' positions in policy spaces reconstructed using these models are made publicly available for download.
A Theory of Arbitrage Capital
Authors: Acharya Viral V. , Shin Hyun Song , Yorulmazer Tanju
Published: January 2013

We present a model of equilibrium allocation of capital for arbitrage. If asset prices may fall low enough, it is profitable to carry liquid capital to acquire assets in such states. Set against this, keeping capital in liquid form entails costs in terms of foregone profitable investments. This trade-off generates occasional fire sales and limited arbitrage capital as robust phenomena. With learning-by-doing effects, arbitrage capital moves in to acquire assets only if fire sales are steep. However, once arbitrage capital finds it profitable to acquire assets, it requires similar returns elsewhere, inducing contagious fire-sale prices even for unrelated assets. (JEL G21, G28, G38, E58, D62)
Association of human leukocyte antigen class I antigens in Iranian patients with pemphigus vulgaris
Authors: Mortazavi Hossein , Amirzargar Ali Akbar , Esmaili Nafiseh , Toofan Hesam , Ehsani Amir Hooshang , Hosseini Seyed Hamed , Rezaei Nima
Published: January 2013

There are a limited number of reports indicating the role of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I alleles in pemphigus vulgaris. This study was designed to highlight the association of HLA class I alleles with pemphigus vulgaris in Iran. Fifty patients with pemphigus vulgaris, diagnosed based on clinical, histological and direct immunofluorescence findings were enrolled into this study. The control group consisted of 50 healthy, age‐ and sex‐matched individuals. HLA typing of class I (A, B and C alleles) was carried out using polymerase chain reaction based on the sequence‐specific primer method. This study showed the higher frequency of HLA‐B*44:02 (P = 0.007), ‐C*04:01 (P < 0.001), ‐C*15:02 (P < 0.001) and ‐C*16:01 (P = 0.027) in the patient group, compared to the controls, while the frequency of HLA‐C*06:02 (P < 0.001) and ‐C*18:01 (P = 0.008) in the patients with pemphigus vulgaris was significantly lower than the controls. Regarding the linkage disequilibrium between HLA class I alleles, the HLA‐A*03:01, ‐B*51:01, ‐C*16:02 haplotype (4% vs 0%, P = 0.04) is suggested to be a predisposing factor, whereas HLA‐A*26:01, ‐B*38, ‐C*12:03 haplotype (0% vs 6%, P = 0.01) is suggested to be a protective factor. In conclusion, it is suggested that HLA‐B*44:02, ‐C*04:01, ‐C*15:02 alleles and HLA‐A*03:01, ‐B*51:01, ‐C*16:02 haplotype are susceptibility factors for development of pemphigus vulgaris in the Iranian population, while HLA‐C*06:02, ‐C*18:01 alleles and HLA‐A*26:01, ‐B*38, ‐C*12:03 haplotype may be considered as protective alleles.
Spatial spread of Eurasian beavers in river networks: a comparison of range expansion rates
Authors: Barták Vojtěch , Vorel Aleš , Šímová Petra , Puš Vladimír
Published: January 2013

Accurately measuring the rate of spread for expanding populations is important for reliably predicting their future spread, as well as for evaluating the effect of different conditions and management activities on that rate of spread.

Although a number of methods have been developed for such measurement, all these are designed only for one‐ or two‐dimensional spread. Species dispersing along rivers, however, require specific methods due to the distinctly branching structure of river networks.

In this study, we analyse data regarding Eurasian beavers' modern recolonization of the Czech Republic. We developed a new methodology for quantifying spread of species dispersing along streams based on representation of the river network by means of a weighted graph.

We defined two different network‐based spread rate measures, one estimating the rate of range expansion, with the range defined as the total length of occupied streams, and the second, named range diameter, quantifying the progress along one or several main streams. In addition, we estimated the population growth rates, and, dividing the population size by the range size, we measured the density of beaver records within their overall range. Using linear regression, we compared four beaver populations under different environmental conditions in terms of each of these measures. Finally, we discuss the differences between our method and the classical approaches.

Our method provided substantially higher spread rate values than did the classical methods. Both population growth and range expansion were found to follow logistic growth. In cases of there being no considerable barriers in dispersal routes, the rate of progress along main streams did not differ significantly among populations. In homogeneous environments, population densities remained relatively constant over time even though overall population sizes increased. This indicates that at large spatial scales, the population growth of beavers occurs through progressive space filling rather than increasing population density.
Epiphyte metapopulation persistence after drastic habitat decline and low tree regeneration: time‐lags and effects of conservation actions
Authors: Johansson Victor , Ranius Thomas , Snäll Tord
Published: January 2013

Old trees have declined inEurope due to agricultural intensification and forestry. For shade‐intolerant epiphytic species occurring on old trees in semi‐open landscapes, host tree numbers have further decreased because of shading by developing secondary woodland. Moreover, in this habitat, regeneration that could replace the extant old trees is low. This suggests that epiphytic species associated with old trees are declining. However, for species with low extinction rates, the decline may be slow and hard to elucidate.

We investigated the persistence of five old‐oak‐associated epiphytic lichens with different traits by simulating metapopulation dynamics usingBayesian incidence function models for dynamic landscapes. With an oak‐rich landscape as a reference, we investigated effects of (i) drastic habitat decline, (ii) conservation actions such as clearing around trees or increased regeneration rate, (iii) low tree regeneration and (iv) clearing and increased regeneration after 100 years of low regeneration.

After drastic habitat decline, the number of occupied trees continued to decrease, displaying long time‐lags before reaching new metapopulation equilibriums. Lichen extinction risks increased with decreasing habitat and were highest for species that only colonise very old trees or have large dispersal propagules. In landscapes with low tree densities, conservation actions had only minor effects on lichen extinction risks.

Low tree regeneration rates increased lichen extinction risks, but species declines were slow. Conservation actions that increased regeneration after 100 years of low regeneration decreased the extinction risks to very low levels.

Synthesis and applications. Due to low rates of local extinction, epiphytes display long time‐lags to reach new equilibriums after habitat loss. Thus, we should expect ongoing declines in epiphyte metapopulations in landscapes where old trees have recently declined. Slow extinction gives an opportunity to improve persistence by conservation actions, but the success depends on species traits and the current density of old trees. In landscapes with many old but few young trees, epiphytes may persist if conservation actions quickly address the need to increase tree regeneration rates. The best conservation approach for long‐term persistence of epiphytic lichens is to ensure regular tree regeneration in landscapes with a current high density of old trees.
Distinct regulation of inner medullary collecting duct nitric oxide production from mice and rats
Authors: Hyndman Kelly A , Xue Jing , MacDonell Alexander , Speed Joshua S , Jin Chunhua , Pollock Jennifer S
Published: January 2013

Nitric oxide (NO) and NO synthase 1 (NOS1) maintain sodium and water homeostasis. The NOS1α and NOS1β splice variants are expressed in the rat inner medulla, but only NOS1β is expressed in the mouse. Collecting duct NOS1 is necessary for blood pressure control. We hypothesized that NOS1 splice variant expression and NO production in the inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) are regulated differently in mice and rats by high dietary sodium.

Male C57blk/J6 mice and Sprague‐Dawley rats were fed a 0.4% (normal salt; NS), or 4% (high salt; HS) NaCl diet for 2 or 7 days.

Mean arterial pressure was not altered by HS, whereas urinary sodium excretion in mice and rats was increased significantly. Urinary excretion of nitrate/nitrite (NOx) and IMCD nitrite production were significantly greater in mice compared with rats on the HS diet.

Western blotting indicated that only NOS1β and NOS3 were expressed in the mouse IMCD and that expression was unaffected by the HS diet at either time point. In contrast, NOS1α was detected in the IMCD of rats, in addition to NOS1β and NOS3. Feeding of the HS diet for 2 days increased NOS1α and NOS1β expression in the rat IMCD and 7 day feeding of the HS diet further increased NOS1β expression. Expression of NOS3 was unchanged by the HS diet at either time point.

In conclusion, IMCD NO production in mice and rats is distinctly regulated under both NS and HS conditions, including expression of NOS1 splice variants.
Characterisation of mozzarella cheese curd by means of capillary rheometry
Authors: Bähler Balz , Hinrichs Jörg
Published: January 2013

For mozzarella production the curd is plasticised and kneaded. To characterise the process rheologically, mozzarella cheese curd was investigated using a capillary rheometer at different temperatures. Measurements with the capillary rheometer regularly revealed pressure oscillations and product distortion, starting at 55 °C, 21/s and at 60 °C, 36/s which leads to the conclusion that there is melt fracture of the stick‐slip type above a critical shear rate. Additionally, at 60 °C and 65 °C phase separation of water and fat was observed, which limits the optimal range of the cooker–stretcher machines.
Improved isolation of bioactive components of bovine colostrum using cross‐flow microfiltration
Authors: Gosch Thomas , Apprich Silvia , Kneifel Wolfgang , Novalin Senad
Published: January 2013

Bovine colostrum contains bioactive components such as growth factors, immunoglobulins and antimicrobial factors. As conventional heat treatment methods inactivate these valuable components, cross‐flow microfiltration (MF) seems to be a promising option for the processing of bovine colostrum. A series of cross‐flow MF experiments with tubular ceramic membranes of various pore sizes and geometries were conducted. MF with pore sizes of 0.8 and 1.4 μm resulted in a 5.4‐ and 3.5‐log reduction of the microbial content, respectively. Applying 0.14‐ and 0.2‐μm membranes lead to a permeate that was almost free from micro‐organisms and casein. However, the maximum transmission of whey protein into the permeate was only 33%.
Distal Radial Artery Pressures Predict Angiographic Result and Short‐Term Patency Outcome in Hemodialysis Patients With Juxta‐Anastomotic Inflow Stenosis of Radiocephalic Fistula Undergoing Transradial Angioplasty
Authors: Lai Chi‐Cheng , Fang Hua‐Chang , Lin Ching‐Hwung , Mar Guang‐Yuan , Tseng Ching‐Jiunn , Liu Chun‐Peng
Published: January 2013

Distal radial artery pressure (RAP) was observed to be reduced after transradial percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) on the juxta‐anastomotic venous stenosis of radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula (RCAVF). Distal RAPs are easily obtained from a pressure transducer connected with an introducer retrograde inserted into distal radial artery. The clinical role of distal RAP in the setting of transradial PTA remains unknown. This prospective and observational study aimed to explore the relationship between distal RAPs and clinical outcomes. This study recruited hemodialysis patients with RCAVF juxta‐anastomotic venous stenosis undergoing transradial PTA. RAP‐related variables and procedural data before PTA (pre‐PTA) and after PTA (post‐PTA) were analyzed. The study endpoint was dysfunction‐driven re‐PTA during the 1‐year follow‐up. Overall, 73 PTAs significantly reduced the mean of systolic RAPs from 159.6 ± 41.4 to 108.4 ± 41.5 mm Hg; P < 0.0001. Post‐PTA systolic RAP was associated with angiographic outcome (P = 0.004) and unassisted patency at 3 months (P = 0.036), but not at 6, 9, or 12 months (P > 0.05). The group with angiographically successful PTAs had a significantly lower mean of post‐PTA systolic RAPs compared with that with unsuccessful PTAs (98.4 ± 35.4 vs. 128.7 ± 46.1 mm Hg; P = 0.003). The post‐PTA systolic RAP may be seen as a predictor for 3‐month unassisted patency (AUC = 0.669; P = 0.048). In conclusion, this study provides the RAP profile to help guide transradial PTA on RCAVF juxta‐anastomotic venous stenosis and predict 3‐month unassisted patency in a hemodynamic manner.
Occult Hepatitis B Virus Infection in Japanese Chronic Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Nagakawa Osamu , Miyatomi Yoshiho , Shigeta Yasuhiro , Inayama Emi , Murakami Kouichi , Sakai Takehiko , Kouno Takashi , Masai Motoyuki , Shirai Kohji , Yoshida Toyohiko
Published: January 2013

We investigated the prevalence of occult hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in Japanese chronic hemodialysis patients. Hemodialysis patients (n = 1041) were screened for occult HBV. The presence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B surface antibody, and hepatitis B core antibody (anti‐HBc) was determined by various chemiluminescent immunoassays. HBV‐DNA was quantified in patients positive for anti‐HBc using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Among the 1041 patients, six (0.6%) were HBsAg‐positive and 218 (20.9%) were anti‐HBc‐positive. All HBsAg‐positive patients also tested positive for the presence of HBV DNA. Of 212 HBsAg‐negative and anti‐HBc‐positive patients, three were positive for HBV DNA. Our study showed that the prevalence of occult HBV infection in chronic hemodialysis patients from eastern Japan was 0.3%.
Peripheral arterial disease in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a prospective controlled study
Authors: Hassan Ayman A. , Habib Hisham M. , Eissa Ashraf A.
Published: January 2013

Aim

The aim of our study was to: (i) map out the presence of peripheral vascular disease in a sample of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients; and (ii) correlate our findings with disease characteristics, activity indices, traditional risk factors of atherosclerosis and thrombotic variables.

Methods

The study population comprised 120 SLE patients and 100 controls. Clinical data were collected for patients and controls with stress on clinical issues of SLE patients, including British Isles Lupus Assessment Group index score, anti‐double stranded DNA titer C3 and C4 levels, and treatment taken, mainly steroids. Measurements of thrombotic variables were performed. Non‐invasive arterial assessment was performed, including carotid duplex scanning and measurement of carotid artery intima‐media thickness (IMT) and peripheral arterial assessment and measurement of ankle–brachial pressure index (ABPI).

Results

The mean age of SLE patients was 32 years and mean disease duration was 8 years. There were no statistically significant differences in the traditional vascular risk factors measured between SLE patients and controls. There were significantly higher plasma levels of thrombotic variables in SLE patients. The average IMT was statistically significantly greater in SLE patients compared to controls. Thirty SLE patients (25%) had an ABPI < 1.0 compared with six controls (6%), which was statistically significant.

Conclusion

This study showed an increased prevalence of peripheral arterial disease in SLE patients as shown by the higher carotid artery IMT and lower ABPI in such patients compared with controls. Multiple risk factors are likely to be involved in such findings.
Is psychotic disorder associated with increased levels of craving for cannabis? An Experience Sampling study
Authors: Kuepper R. , Oorschot M. , Myin‐Germeys I. , Smits M. , van Os J. , Henquet C.
Published: January 2013

Objective

Although cannabis use among individuals with psychotic disorder is considerable, little is known about patterns of use and factors contributing to continuation of use. Therefore, we investigated craving in relation to cannabis use in patients with psychotic disorder and healthy controls.

Method

The study included 58 patients with non‐affective psychotic disorder and 63 healthy controls; all were frequent cannabis users. Craving was assessed with the Obsessive Compulsive Drug Use Scale (OCDUS) for cannabis, as well as in daily life using the Experience Sampling Method (ESM).

Results

Patients scored higher on the OCDUS (B = 1.18, P = 0.022), but did not differ from controls in ESM indices of craving (all P > 0.05). In daily life, ESM craving predicted cannabis use and this was stronger in controls (χ2 = 4.5, P = 0.033; Bcontrols = 0.08, P < 0.001; Bpatients = 0.06, P < 0.001). In both groups ESM craving was predicted by negative affect, paranoia, and hallucinations (Bnegativeaffect = 0.12, P = 0.009; Bparanoia = 0.13, P = 0.013; Bhallucinations = 0.13, P = 0.028), and followed by an increase in negative affect at non‐cannabis‐using moments (B = 0.03, P = 0.002).

Conclusion

The temporal dynamics of craving as well as craving intensity in daily life appear to be similar in patients and controls. Further research is needed to elucidate the inconsistencies between cross‐sectional and daily‐life measures of craving in psychosis.
Does colour matter? The influence of animal warning coloration on human emotions and willingness to protect them
Authors: Prokop P. , Fančovičová J.
Published: January 2013

The perceived popularity of animals plays a crucial role in their support by the general public and consequently in the success of conservation efforts. We experimentally investigated with Slovak schoolchildren the role of animal coloration and basic human emotions in the willingness to protect animals. Both unaltered and experimentally manipulated pictures of aposematic animals increased perceived danger. Spiders and snakes were perceived as more dangerous/disgusting than other taxa, particularly birds and mammals. Children showed significantly a stronger willingness to protect aposematic animals over inconspicuous, cryptic animals. Perceived disgust and danger of animals negatively correlated with a willingness to protect them with females showing greater fear of animals than males. Our results suggest that the use of aposematic animals in conservation programs may increase their popularity and public support.
Setting conservation priorities when what you see is not what you get
Authors: Vellend Mark , Kharouba Heather M.
Published: January 2013

Read the Feature Paper:Mapping the potential extinction debt of butterflies in a modern city: implications for conservation priorities in urban landscapes

Other Commentaries on this paper:Extinction debt at different spatial scales

Response from the authors:From ecological pessimism to conservation chance: reviving living dead in changing landscapes
Relation between corticosterone and fear‐related behavior in mice selectively bred for high or low alcohol preference
Authors: Chester Julia A. , Kirchhoff Aaron M. , Barrenha Gustavo D.
Published: January 2013

Blunted cortisol responses to stress or trauma have been linked with genetic (familial) risk for both alcoholism and post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Mouse lines selectively bred for high (HAP) or low (LAP) alcohol preference may be a relevant model of genetic risk for co‐morbid alcoholism and PTSD in humans. HAP mice show greater fear‐potentiated startle (FPS), a model used to study PTSD, than LAP mice. The relation between corticosterone (CORT) and FPS behavior was explored in four experiments. Naïve male and female HAP2 and LAP2 mice received fear‐conditioning or control treatments, and CORT levels were measured before and immediately after fear‐conditioning or FPS testing. In two other experiments, HAP2 mice received CORT (1.0, 5.0 or 10.0 mg/kg) or a glucocorticoid receptor antagonist (mifepristone; 25.0 and 50.0 mg/kg) 30 minutes before fear conditioning. HAP2 mice exposed to fear conditioning and to control foot shock exposures showed lower CORT after the fear‐conditioning and FPS testing sessions than LAP2 mice. A trend toward higher FPS was seen in HAP2 mice pretreated with 10.0 mg/kg CORT, and CORT levels were the lowest in this group, suggesting negative feedback inhibition of CORT release. Mifepristone did not alter FPS. Overall, these results are consistent with data in humans and rodents indicating that lower cortisol/CORT levels after stress are associated with PTSD/PTSD‐like behavior. These findings in HAP2 and LAP2 mice suggest that a blunted CORT response to stress may be a biological marker for greater susceptibility to develop PTSD in individuals with increased genetic risk for alcoholism.
QT Prolongation and T‐Wave Alternans during Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation: A Case Report
Authors: Saini Aditya , Shah Hemal , Saba Samir
Published: January 2013

We report a case of a 63‐year‐old woman who developed profound QT prolongation, T‐wave alternans, and spontaneous ventricular fibrillation during catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation. A thorough search into the possible mechanisms identified the use of sevoflurane, an inhalational gas anesthetic as the culprit. The patient was converted to propofol anesthesia and her QT interval normalized promptly.
A Rare Cause of Pacemaker Failure: Interatrial Block
Authors: Demircan Sabri , Yuksel Serkan , Gulel Okan
Published: January 2013

Pacemaker and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD) systems are useful in detection and differentiation of many symptomatic and asymptomatic arrhythmias. In this report, we described a rare condition that caused by failure in detection of a clinical tachyarrhythmia by a dual chamber pacemaker that implanted because of intermittent atrioventricular (AV) block and sinus node disease in a 46‐year‐old patient. In our case, bidirectional interatrial block was demonstrated; and the symptoms associated with high ventricular rate caused by left atrial tachyarrhythmias relieved after AV node ablation.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Low QRS Voltages in Cardiac AL Amyloidosis
Authors: Mussinelli Roberta , Salinaro Francesco , Alogna Alessio , Boldrini Michele , Raimondi Ambra , Musca Francesco , Palladini Giovanni , Merlini Giampaolo , Perlini Stefano
Published: January 2013

Background

In cardiac AL amyloidosis, myocardial infiltration is typically associated with “low QRS voltages” at the 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG). Although considered as one of the hallmarks of the disease, its reported prevalence varies from 45% to 70%, mainly because of nonhomogeneous definitions.

Methods

To identify the “low QRS voltage” parameter having the best diagnostic value in identifying cardiac amyloidosis, and to assess its possible prognostic role, ECG and echocardiographic data were collected at diagnosis in 337 consecutive never‐treated AL patients (233 with, 104 without cardiac involvement). Prognosis was assessed after a median follow‐up of 14.5 months.

Results

“Low QRS voltage” prevalence varied from 84.12% when using Sokolow‐Lyon index ≤15 mm to 27.04% with the definition of low total voltages (QRS amplitude ≤5 mm in each peripheral and ≤10 mm in each precordial lead), the widely used definition of low peripheral voltages (≤5 mm in each peripheral lead) being able to identify 66.52% cardiac AL patients. The presence of “low peripheral voltages” was associated with a more severe cardiac involvement, and was able to differentiate Mayo stage II patients’ survival (i.e., AL patients with intermediate prognosis). According to receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, sensitivity and specificity were 58.72% and 80.00%, for a peripheral QRS amplitude ≤24.5 mm (the sum of QRS in all the 6 peripheral leads), and 76.26% and 65.00% for a Sokolow‐Lyon index ≤11 mm.

Conclusions

In cardiac AL amyloidosis the prevalence of low QRS voltages is highly dependent on the method used for defining this ECG alteration.
Effects of delayed cord clamping on neurodevelopment and infection at four months of age: a randomised trial
Authors: Andersson Ola , Domellöf Magnus , Andersson Dan , Hellström‐Westas Lena
Published: January 2013

Aim

To investigate the effect that delayed and early umbilical cord clamping have on neurodevelopment, immunoglobulin G (IgG) and symptoms of infection during the first 4 months of life.

Methods

Full‐term infants (n = 382) were randomised to delayed (≥180 sec) or early cord clamping (≤10 sec). The Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) was used to assess neurodevelopment at 4 months. Immunoglobulin G was measured at birth, 2–3 days and 4 months. Parents recorded any symptoms indicating infection during the first 4 months of life.

Results

The total scores from the ASQ did not differ between groups. However, the delayed cord clamping (DCC) group had a higher mean (SD) score in the problem‐solving domain [55.3 (7.2) vs. 53.5 (8.2), p = 0.03] at 4 months and a lower mean (SD) score in the personal‐social domain [49.5 (9.3) vs. 51.8 (8.1), p = 0.01]. The IgG level was higher in the DCC group at 2–3 days (11.7 vs. 11.0 g/L, p = 0.004), but did not differ between the groups at 4 months. Symptoms of infection were comparable between the groups.

Conclusion

Delayed cord clamping did not affect overall neurodevelopment or symptoms of infection up to 4 months of age, but may have an impact on specific neurodevelopmental domains.