bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microaneurysm Turnover at the Macula Predicts Risk of Development of Clinically Significant Macular Edema in Persons With Mild Nonproliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Ribeiro Maria Luisa , Nunes Sandrina G. , Cunha-Vaz José G.
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE

To examine the relationship between microaneurysm (MA) turnover using automated analysis of fundus photographs (RetmarkerDR; Critical Health SA) and development of clinically significant macular edema (CSME) in nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A prospective, monocenter, observational study was designed to follow eyes/patients with type 2 diabetes and NPDR (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study levels 20 and 35) with no prior laser treatment for 2 years or until development of CSME. A total of 410 patients, one eye per patient, fulfilled the inclusion/exclusion criteria and were included in the study. Ophthalmologic examinations including best corrected visual acuity, fundus photography, and optical coherence tomography were performed at baseline, 6 months, and at the last study visit (24 months or before laser treatment).

RESULTS

A total of 348 eyes/patients performed the 24-month visit or developed CSME. Of these 348 eyes/patients, 26 developed CSME. HbA1c levels at baseline and MA turnover (i.e., the sum of the MA formation and disappearance rates) computed during the first 6 months of follow-up were found to be independently predictive factors for development of CSME. MA turnover was 11.2 ± 11.2 in the 26 eyes/patients that developed CSME and 5.0 ± 5.2 in the remaining 322 (P < 0.001). Higher MA turnover values correlated with earlier development of CSME. MA turnover predictive values for CSME development were, for the positive predictive value, 20% and for the negative predictive value, 96%.

CONCLUSIONS

MA turnover calculated with the RetmarkerDR predicts development of CSME in eyes with NPDR. Low MA turnover values identify well the eyes that are less likely to develop CSME in a 2-year period.
A Five-Year Clinical Evaluation of Direct Nanofilled and Indirect Composite Resin Restorations in Posterior Teeth
Authors: Cetin AR , Unlu N , Cobanoglu N
Published: December 2012

Aim:

To assess the clinical efficacy of posterior composite resin restorations placed directly and indirectly in posterior teeth after five years.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 108 cavities in 54 patients were restored with three direct composite resins (Filtek SupremeXT [FSXT], Tetric Evo Ceram [TEC], AELITE Aesthetic [AA]) and two indirect composite resins (Estenia [E] and Tescera ATL [TATL]). All restorations were evaluated by two examiners using the United States Public Health Service criteria at baseline and five years after placement. Statistical analysis was completed with Fisher exact and McNemar χ2 tests.

Results:

At baseline, 4% (five) of the restored teeth presented postoperative sensitivity; however, only one of them (a member of the E group) required canal treatment and replacement after two years. At the five-year evaluation, all restorations were retained, with Alpha ratings at 100%. Only one tooth (in the TEC group) required replacement after three years due to secondary caries. Color match, surface texture, and marginal integrity were predominantly scored as Alpha after five years for all groups. After that time, marginal discoloration was scored as Alpha in 64% of AE restorations, 70% of TATL restorations, 73% of E restorations, and 87% of FSXT restorations. There were no Charlie scores recorded for any of the restorative systems.

Conclusions:

Under controlled clinical conditions, indirect composite resin inlays and direct composite resin restorations exhibited an annual failure rate of 2.5% and 1.6%, respectively, after five years. Therefore, the investigated materials showed acceptable clinical performance, and no significant differences were found among them.
Outcome of urethral stent placement for management of urethral obstruction secondary to transitional cell carcinoma in dogs: 19 cases (2007–2010)
Authors: McMillan Sarah K. , Knapp Deborah W. , Ramos-Vara José A. , Bonney Patty L. , Adams Larry G.
Published: December 2012

Objective—To determine the outcome in dogs undergoing urethral stent placement for management of urethral obstruction secondary to transitional cell carcinoma (TCC).

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—19 dogs with histopathologically confirmed TCC.

Procedures—Information regarding urethral stent placement and follow-up treatment was obtained from review of medical records. Quality of life assessment was performed with an owner questionnaire.

Results—Self-expanding nitinol stents were successfully placed in 17 of 19 dogs; stent placement was not possible in one dog, and another dog was euthanatized 2 days after stent placement, but before discharge from the hospital. Median survival time in 17 dogs following successful long-term stent placement was 78 days (range, 2 to 366 days). Complications following stent placement in 18 dogs included incontinence (n = 7), reobstruction from continued growth of urethral TCC (3), acute reobstruction shortly after the procedure (1), and stent migration (2). Of the 17 owners surveyed, 16 were satisfied with the outcome and would recommend urethral stent placement.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The placement of self-expanding nitinol urethral stents was successful in alleviating TCC-induced urethral obstruction and providing good quality of life for most dogs.
Dysgalactia associated with Mycoplasma suis infection in a sow herd
Authors: Strait Erin L. , Hawkins Peggy Anne , Wilson Warren D.
Published: December 2012

Case Description—A sudden onset of extreme dysgalactia in gilts and sows in a 1,000-head farrow-to-wean herd was observed in December 2009. Signs of dysgalactia were identified in sows beginning 1 day after parturition and lasted 4 to 6 days. This resulted in a mean piglet preweaning mortality rate of 18% because of starvation.

Clinical Findings—Sows were neither off feed nor febrile. Udders were not inflamed or congested. Feed sample analysis did not find ergotamine, mycotoxin contamination, or ration formulation errors. Management practices were acceptable. Piglets attempted to stimulate milk production but none was elicited. Oxytocin (20 U) caused milk ejection but the effect was short-lived. Blood samples from sows with affected litters were positive for Mycoplasma suis (formerly Eperythrozoon suis) by PCR assay, and blood samples from sows with unaffected litters were negative.

Treatment and Outcome—Chlortetracycline fed to the entire sow herd at 22 mg/kg/d (10 mg/lb/d) for 2 weeks resulted in a near complete absence of dysgalactia in sows farrowing within 5 weeks after the start of treatment. Dysgalactia did occur in sows that received chlortetracycline > 5 weeks prior to farrowing. Currently, gestating sows and gilts receive chlortetracycline in feed at a dosage of 22 mg/kg/d for 2 weeks beginning 3 weeks prior to farrowing.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—M suis is spread primarily by blood contact from animal to animal, and diagnosis of infection with this organism can be easily missed by means of standard diagnostic protocols unless PCR assays or specific stains are used. Therefore, its current prevalence and impact are likely to be greatly underestimated.
Event-by-event hadron ratio fluctuations from Au+Au collisions at RHIC-STAR
Authors: Tian Jian
Published: December 2012

We present measurements of event-by-event fluctuations on hadron multiplicity ratios (K/π, p/π, K/p) in Au+Au collisions at $\sqrt {s_{NN} } $ and 200 GeV using the STAR detector at RHIC. The magnitude of dynamical fluctuations σ
dyn for p/π and K/p ratios change smoothly from a large negative value at 7.7 GeV to a smaller negative value at 200 GeV while that for the K/π ratios exhibits no significant beam energy dependence. The dynamical fluctuations related to pair production σ
dynpair dyn for the p/K, K/p, K
−/K
+ and p/p ratios at 200 GeV all exhibit a maximum at the mid-central collisions and decrease at the most peripheral and most central collisions.
The horn, kink and step, dale: from few GeV to few TeV
Authors: Rustamov Anar
Published: December 2012

Rich experimental data have been collected in heavy-ion collisions at high energies to study the properties of strongly interacting matter. As the theory of strong interactions, QCD, predicts asymptotic freedom, the created matter at sufficiently high temperature and density will be dominated by a state of quasi-free quarks and gluons referred to as the Quark-Qluon Plasma (QGP). Experimental signals for the onset of the QGP creation (the onset of the deconfinement) have been predicted within the statistical model for the early stage of nucleus-nucleus collisions. In this model the existence of two different phases is assumed: confined mater and the QGP, as well as a first order phase transition between them. Until recently, these predictions were confirmed only by the NA49 experiment at the CERN SPS. In this report recent results from STAR at RHIC/BNL and from ALICE at LHC/CERN, related to the onset of deconfinement, will be compared to published results from NA49.
Highlights of the beam energy scan from STAR
Authors: Schmah Alexander
Published: December 2012

The first part of the beam energy scan (BES) program at RHIC was successfully completed in the years 2010 and 2011. First STAR results from particle yield measurements are in good agreement with previously published data from SPS and AGS experiments whereas other results like azimuthal HBT and K/π event-by-event fluctuations differ at some energies. In addition, new observations like the centrality dependence of chemical freeze-out parameters (T
ch and µB) or the smoothly increasing difference with decreasing energy in the elliptic flow v
2 between particles and corresponding anti-particles, are discussed.
Relationships between metabolic fluxes and enzyme amino acid composition
Authors: Kampenusa Inara , Zikmanis Peteris
Published: December 2012

Metabolic fluxes are a key parameter of metabolic pathways being closely related to the kinetic properties of enzymes and could be conditional on their sequence characteristics. This study examines possible relationships between the metabolic fluxes and the amino acid (AA) composition (AAC) for enzymes from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae glycolysis pathway. Metabolic fluxes were quantified by the COPASI tool using the kinetic models of Hynne and Teusink at 25 mM, 50 mM, and 100 mM of external glucose or employing literature data for cognate kinetic or stoichiometric models. The enzyme sequences were taken from the UniProtKB, and the AAC computed by the ExPASy/ProtParam tool. Multiple linear regressions (89.07% < R2 adjusted < 91.82%; P<0.00001) were found between the values of metabolic fluxes and the selected sets of AA frequencies (5 to 7 for each model). Selected AA differed from the rest by their physicochemical and structural propensities, thus suggesting a distinctive contribution to the properties of enzymes, and hence the metabolic fluxes. The results provide evidence that metabolic fluxes of the yeast glycolysis pathway are closely related to the AAC of relevant enzymes and support the view that catalytic, binding and structural residues are interdependent to ensure the efficiency of biocatalysts.
Characterisation of hydroxyapatite surface modified by poly(ethylene glycol) and poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate) grafting
Authors: Adamska Katarzyna , Szubert Magdalena , Voelkel Adam , Okulus Zuzanna
Published: December 2012

Hydroxyapatite (HA) has many applications in medicine as a biocompatible and bioactive biomaterial. Numerous studies have shown that modification of the HA surface can improve its biological and chemical properties. However, little is known about the surface properties of modified materials. In this paper the influence of organic polymers: polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polyhydroxyethyl methacrylate (pHEMA) on the surface properties and surface chemistry of hydroxyapatite (HA) is presented. The surface properties of modified HA were characterised by the FT-IR, XPS, BET, and zeta potential measurements. Specific surface area was determined by BET. Infrared and XPS spectra confirmed the presence of PEG and pHEMA on the surface of HA. The BET N2 adsorption revealed slight changes in the HA surface chemistry after grafting modification. The surface chemical properties of the HA were considered to be based on the zeta potential. The decrease in zeta potential results in the increasing stability of the modified material and also in the reduction of bacterial adhesion. The reaction for surface modification of HA is proposed and described.
Bi-hybrid coatings: polyaniline-montmorillonite filler in organic-inorganic polymer matrix
Authors: Špírková Milena , Bober Patrycja , Kotek Jiří , Stejskal Jaroslav
Published: December 2012

A bi-hybrid composite is represented by an organic-inorganic (O-I) filler dispersed in an O-I matrix. Polyaniline-montmorillonite, as a nanocomposite filler, was synthesised by two independent processes: (1) montmorillonite was surface-modified with a conducting polymer, polyaniline, during the in-situ oxidation of aniline or (2) montmorillonite was pre-treated with aniline, then the aniline was polymerised and the polyaniline subsequently produced penetrated the montmorillonite structure. The organic-inorganic polymer matrix was formed in two independent steps: (1) inorganic building units were formed in situ by the sol-gel process, (2) followed by organic polymeric matrix formation by polyaddition reactions of epoxy groups with amines. Polyaniline-montmorillonite filler was added to the reaction system between these two steps, i.e. when the inorganic structures of the O-I matrix have already been formed but prior to formation of the organic polymeric matrix. Two different O-I matrices were prepared from functionalised organosilicon precursors and oligomeric amines. 3-[(Glycidyloxy)propyl]trimethoxysilane reacted with α,ω-oligo(propylene oxide) diamine and diethoxy[3-(glycidyloxy)propyl]-methylsilane reacted with α,ω-oligo(propylene oxide) triamine. The resulting bi-hybrid coatings, the O-I filler dispersed in the O-I matrix, were characterised by atomic-force and optical microscopies, and also by tensile tests. The filler composition affected both the mechanical and surface properties of the coatings.
Tracking the motion of recognizable sea-ice objects from coastal radar image sequences
Authors: Karvonen Juha
Published: December 2012

The Finnish Meteorological Institute has installed image-capturing devices on some Baltic Sea coastal radars for operational sea-ice monitoring and ice product validation. These devices produce radar images, which are saved operationally at about every 2 min. These data can efficiently be utilized in automated tracking of ice motion over sequences of radar images. Reliable estimates of point-wise ice drift can be used as virtual drifter buoys to validate fine-scale ice models. For this purpose we have developed an algorithm, which first locates objects that can reliably be recognized from one radar image to another, and then tracks the motion of these objects until they are lost by the algorithm. The recognizable objects in the first image of an image sequence are located by requiring an object to include a textural content, i.e. the object does not solely consist of a uniform area, and detected edge corner points. The corner points are required to exclude straight linear edges. After locating a suitable number of traceable objects, the tracking is performed between each pair of successive images using a two-resolution phase-correlation algorithm. We have tested the tracking algorithm using image sequences of two coastal radars collected during the 2010/11 and 2011/12 winters.
Clinical teaching in Dermatology of Undergraduate Medical Students of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam MS , Khan Ismail , Talukder HK , Akther N
Published: December 2012

This cross-sectional study was conducted with the objective to explore the practice of clinical teaching in Dermatology of undergraduate medical students of Bangladesh to identify the constraints and suggestions to improve the clinical teaching. The study also looked into the clinical competencies achieved by the students from available facilities provided by the institutes. The study was conducted at Dhaka Medical College (DMC) and Sir Salimullah Medical College (SSMC) from July 2008 to June 2009. The students of 4th year and 5th year were the study population. Sample size was 273. After taking permission from concern authority data were collected through a self administered semi-structured questionnaire by convenient sampling. The study reflected that most of the clinical classes in Dermatology were taken by the junior teachers and mid level teachers. It was found that majority of clinical classes were held in the morning and afternoon, though a very few of the clinical classes are taken at night in Dermatology. The students viewed that the teachers follow the curriculum to conduct the clinical classes. The students agreed that they were benefited through those clinical classes and acquired how to examine the patients and to take history and other clinical skills. Majority of the respondents viewed that inadequate number of teachers and patients were one of the important barriers for clinical teaching in Dermatology. They suggested that the senior teachers should conduct clinical teaching with sufficient instructional materials and instruments. It was recorded that the clinical teaching in Dermatology should be integrated in the institutes. It was also proposed that sufficient number of relevant patients and adequate number of teachers should be ensured for imparting effective clinical teaching in Dermatology. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjme.v1i1.12854 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Education Vol.1(1) 2010 pp.16-24
Climate study in different phases of medical students of medical colleges of Bangladesh
Authors: Nahar Nurun , Talukder Md Humayun Kabir , Khan Md Tafazzal Hossain , Nargis Tahmina , Mohammad Shegufta , Akhter Nasrin
Published: December 2012

Climate is the soul and spirit of medical college and students experiences of the climate are a useful basis for modifying and improving the quality of educational environment. The present study was undertaken to identify how the students perceive the educational environment in a newly restructured curriculum using the Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure (DREEM). The inventory was administered to 1903 medical students (3rd, 4th and 5th year) of MBBS course adopting purposive sampling. The mean DREEM total score and mean score for five essential domains were found significantly different in different phase of medical students. DREEM total score were found to be highest for 3rd year students (119/200) and lowest for 5th year students (105/200) but all the three groups of students perceive the environment as positive. 3rd year students also scored high than 4th and 5th year students in five domains. All the three groups of students identify problems in environment and give opinion that there are many issues need to improve with special attention to perception of atmosphere and social self perception. The results are the first data obtained from the students about the educational environment and give important feedback to curriculum planners and change managers of the faculty for necessary improvement. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjme.v1i1.12856 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Education Vol.1(1) 2010 pp.29-36
Pregnancy with Medical Disorders: the Challenge to Meet
Authors: Nazneen Khadija
Published: December 2012

Not available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v2i2.12837J Enam Med Col 2012; 2(2): 51-53
Raised Vaginal Fluid Fibronectin Level Indicates Premature Rupture of Membrane
Authors: Rahman Shamima , Jahan Samsad , Habib Samira Humaira , Sultana Nasrin , Sultana Mst Nigar , Paul Debashish , Bhowmik Amrita , Begum Khodeja
Published: December 2012

Background: Premature rupture of membrane (PROM) is one of the common complications  of pregnancy that has major impact on fetal and neonatal outcome. It is the commonest  clinical event where a normal pregnancy becomes suddenly a high-risk one for mother and  fetus or neonate. Objective: The study was undertaken to investigate whether raised  fibronectin level in vaginal fluid may indicate premature rupture of membrane. Materials and  Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in the department of Obstetrics and  Gynecology in Sir Salimullah Medical College & Mitford Hospital, Dhaka during the period  of January 2006 to December 2007. A total of 114 pregnant women with gestational age 28th  week up to 40th week were included. Sixty were PROM (Group I) and 54 were non-PROM  (Group II) subjects. Fibronectin in vaginal fluid was measured by an immunochemical  reaction by nephelometer. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS version 10.0. Results: The  PROM patients had significantly higher concentration of fibronectin (225.77 ± 115.18 ng/mL)  compared to that in non-PROM subjects (8.04 ± 16.17 ng/mL) (p < 0.001). Conclusion: It  can be concluded that in cases of unequivocal rupture or intactness of the membranes, the  result of the fibronectin test corresponds well with the clinical situation. So fibronectin is a  sensitive test for detection of amniotic fluid in the vagina. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v2i2.12841 J Enam Med Col 2012; 2(2): 74-79
Names of the Reviewers of Articles in Vol.2(2)
Authors: Editor The
Published: December 2012

Not available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v2i2.12850 J Enam Med Col 2011; 1(2): 99
Occupational Health and Safety Experiences among Self-Identified Immigrant Workers Living or Working in Somerville, MA by Ethnicity, Years in the US, and English Proficiency
Authors: Panikkar Bindu , Woodin Mark , Brugge Doug , Desmarais Anne , Hyatt Raymond , Goldman Rose , Pirie Alex , Goldstein-Gelb Marcy , Galvão Heloisa , Chianelli Monica , Vasquez Ismael , McWhinney Melissa , Dalembert Franklin , Gute David
Published: December 2012

In this community based research initiative, we employed a survey instrument predominately developed and administered by Teen Educators to assess occupational health risks for Haitian, Salvadoran, and Brazilian immigrants (n = 405) in Somerville, MA, USA. We demonstrate that a combined analysis of ethnicity, years in the US, and English proficiency better characterized the occupational experience of immigrant workers than considering these variables individually. While years in the US (negatively) and English proficiency (positively) explained the occurrence of health risks, the country of origin identified the most vulnerable populations in the community. Brazilians, Salvadorans, and other Hispanic, all of whom who have been in the US varying length of time, with varying proficiency in English language had twice the odds of reporting injuries due to work compared to other immigrants. Although this observation was not significant it indicates that years in the US and English proficiency alone do not predict health risks among this population. We recommend the initiation of larger studies employing c community based participatory research methods to confirm these differences and to further explore work and health issues of immigrant populations. This study is one of the small number of research efforts to utilize a contemporaneous assessment of occupational health problems in three distinct immigrant populations at the community level within a specific Environmental Justice context and social milieu.
Class IIa Bacteriocins: Diversity and New Developments
Authors: Cui Yanhua , Zhang Chao , Wang Yunfeng , Shi John , Zhang Lanwei , Ding Zhongqing , Qu Xiaojun , Cui Hongyu
Published: December 2012

Class IIa bacteriocins are heat-stable, unmodified peptides with a conserved amino acids sequence YGNGV on their N-terminal domains, and have received much attention due to their generally recognized as safe (GRAS) status, their high biological activity, and their excellent heat stability. They are promising and attractive agents that could function as biopreservatives in the food industry. This review summarizes the new developments in the area of class IIa bacteriocins and aims to provide uptodate information that can be used in designing future research.
Long Non-Coding RNAs and p53 Regulation
Authors: Baldassarre Antonella , Masotti Andrea
Published: December 2012

The advent of novel and high-throughput sequencing (next generation) technologies allowed for the sequencing of the genome at an unprecedented depth. The majority of transcribed RNAs have been classified as non-coding RNAs. Among them, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as important regulators in many biological processes. Here, we discuss the role of those lncRNAs which are under the control of p53 or that are able to regulate its activity, due to the central role of p53 pathway in many conditions. We also briefly discussed the emerging need of having novel strategies and computational tools to completely unravel the multifaceted roles of lncRNAs and to pave the way to the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic applications based on these peculiar molecules.
UVA Irradiation of Dysplastic Keratinocytes: Oxidative Damage versus Antioxidant Defense
Authors: Nechifor Marina , Niculiţe Cristina , Urs Andreea , Regalia Teodor , Mocanu Mihaela , Popescu Alexandra , Manda Gina , Dinu Diana , Leabu Mircea
Published: December 2012

UVA affects epidermal cell physiology in a complex manner, but the harmful effects have been studied mainly in terms of DNA damage, mutagenesis and carcinogenesis. We investigated UVA effects on membrane integrity and antioxidant defense of dysplastic keratinocytes after one and two hours of irradiation, both immediately after exposure, and 24 h post-irradiation. To determine the UVA oxidative stress on cell membrane, lipid peroxidation was correlated with changes in fatty acid levels. Membrane permeability and integrity were assessed by propidium iodide staining and lactate dehydrogenase release. The effects on keratinocyte antioxidant protection were investigated in terms of catalase activity and expression. Lipid peroxidation increased in an exposure time-dependent manner. UVA exposure decreased the level of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which gradually returned to its initial value. Lactate dehydrogenase release showed a dramatic loss in membrane integrity after 2 h minimum of exposure. The cell ability to restore membrane permeability was noted at 24 h post-irradiation (for one hour exposure). Catalase activity decreased in an exposure time-dependent manner. UVA-irradiated dysplastic keratinocytes developed mechanisms leading to cell protection and survival, following a non-lethal exposure. The surviving cells gained an increased resistance to apoptosis, suggesting that their pre-malignant status harbors an abnormal ability to control their fate.
Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane (POSS)-Containing Polymer Nanocomposites
Authors: Ayandele Ebunoluwa , Sarkar Biswajit , Alexandridis Paschalis
Published: December 2012

Hybrid materials with superior structural and functional properties can be obtained by incorporating nanofillers into polymer matrices. Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) nanoparticles have attracted much attention recently due to their nanometer size, the ease of which these particles can be incorporated into polymeric materials and the unique capability to reinforce polymers. We review here the state of POSS-containing polymer nanocomposites. We discuss the influence of the incorporation of POSS into polymer matrices via chemical cross-linking or physical blending on the structure of nanocomposites, as affected by surface functional groups, and the POSS concentration.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in a polyploid alpine herb, Callianthemum miyabeanum (Ranunculaceae)
Authors: Abe Harue , Nishikawa Yoko , Shimamura Takashi , Sato Ken , Suyama Yoshihisa
Published: December 2012

• Premise of the study: Nuclear microsatellite primers were developed to analyze the clonal diversity and population genetic structure of the endemic polyploid herb Callianthemum miyabeanum.

• Methods and Results: Using a protocol for constructing microsatellite‐enriched libraries, 15 primer sets were developed for use in C. miyabeanum. The number of alleles found ranged from five to 22. The estimated range of expected heterozygosities was 0.574 to 0.907, and the Shannon–Weiner diversity index ranged from 1.061 to 2.733. Cross‐amplification of all loci was also successful in the closely related endemic species C. kirigishiense and C. hondoense.

• Conclusions: The development of these microsatellite loci will facilitate a deeper understanding of the genetic diversity, mode of reproduction, and population structure of not only C. miyabeanum, but also the other Callianthemum species endemic to Japan.
Diversification of the newly recognized lichen‐forming fungal lineage Montanelia (Parmeliaceae, Ascomycota) and its relation to key geological and climatic events
Authors: Divakar Pradeep K. , Del‐Prado Ruth , Lumbsch H. Thorsten , Wedin Mats , Esslinger Theodore L. , Leavitt Steven D. , Crespo Ana
Published: December 2012

• Premise of the study: In spite of the recent advances in generic and species circumscriptions and in recognizing species diversity in lichen‐forming fungi, the timing of speciation and the factors that promote diversification in lichens remain largely unexplored. We used brown parmelioids as a model to assess the timing of divergence and explore the impact of geological and climatic events on lineage divergence and diversification in lichenized fungi. Additionally, to clarify the phylogenetic position of the species currently placed in Melanelia disjuncta group, we evaluated the taxonomic status and phylogenetic relationships within Parmeliaceae.

• Methods: Phylogenetic relationships and divergence time estimates were inferred from a four‐loci data set. Alternative hypotheses were tested using Shimodaira‐Hasegawa and expected likelihood weights tests.

• Key results: The M. disjuncta group forms a strongly supported, monophyletic lineage independent from Melanelia s.s. The M. disjuncta clade arose ca. 23.1 million years ago (Ma). Our results suggest that most of the lineages within the clade diversified during the Miocene (17.6 to 11.2 Ma). The split of other brown parmelioids, such as Emodomelanelia‐Melanelixia occurred ca. 41.70 Ma, and the radiation of Melanelixia began during the Eocene–Oligocene transition (ca. 33.75 Ma).

• Conclusions: Montanelia is described here as a new genus to accommodate species of the Melanelia disjuncta group. Further, the study indicates that the current species delimitation within the newly described genus requires revision. We provide evidence of lineage divergence of Montanelia at the Oligocene–Miocene boundary. Our results indicate that the diversification during Miocene would have happened during major mountain uplifts.
Episodic recruitment of the seedling banks in balsam fir and white spruce
Authors: Rossi Sergio , Morin Hubert , Gionest François , Laprise Danielle
Published: December 2012

• Premise of the study: In ecosystems where seed production is low and masting years are sporadic, or with species that have short‐lived seeds, regeneration is assured by seedling banks rather than seed banks. Seedling establishment and survival play a critical role in determining the composition of these plant communities by supplying new individuals for their maintenance. Seedling emergence and mortality were investigated to test the hypothesis that recruitment into the seedling bank is periodic.

• Materials and methods: Seed production and seedling emergence and survival was monitored during 1994‐2007 in balsam fir (Abies balsamea) and white spruce (Picea glauca) in four pristine stands of the boreal forest of Quebec, Canada. Measurements were collected twice per month by sampling one permanent plot of 20 × 20 m per stand.

• Key results: Seed‐rain abundance reached 9 × 103 seeds m−2 year−1, and was characterized by synchronous sequences of low and high seed production. New seedlings appeared only during the year following a seed production of at least 1 × 103 and 1.5 × 102 seeds m−2 year−1 for balsam fir and white spruce, respectively. Seedlings emerged in July and survived 34‐52 d on average, with balsam fir showing a longer lifespan and lower mortality, although 85–99% of seedlings died before completing one year of life.

• Conclusions: The emergence of young seedlings was coupled with massive seed rains, which allowed synchronous replenishment of the seedling banks among stands and species, and generated different cohorts, yielding a discontinuous age structure.
Interrelationships of petiolar air canal architecture, water depth, and convective air flow in Nymphaea odorata (Nymphaeaceae)
Authors: Richards Jennifer H. , Kuhn David N. , Bishop Kristin
Published: December 2012

• Premise of the study: Nymphaea odorata grows in water up to 2 m deep, producing fewer larger leaves in deeper water. This species has a convective flow system that moves gases from younger leaves through submerged parts to older leaves, aerating submerged parts. Petiolar air canals are the convective flow pathways. This study describes the structure of these canals, how this structure varies with water depth, and models how convective flow varies with depth.

• Methods: Nymphaea odorata plants were grown at water depths from 30 to 90 cm. Lamina area, petiolar cross‐sectional area, and number and area of air canals were measured. Field‐collected leaves and leaves from juvenile plants were analyzed similarly. Using these data and data from the literature, we modeled how convective flow changes with water depth.

• Key results: Petioles of N. odorata produce two central pairs of air canals; additional pairs are added peripherally, and succeeding pairs are smaller. The first three pairs account for 96% of air canal area. Air canals form 24% of petiolar cross‐sectional area. Petiolar and air canal cross‐sectional areas increase with water depth. Petiolar area scales with lamina area, but the slope of this relationship is lower in 90 cm water than at shallower depths. In our model, the rate of convective flow varied with depth and with the balance of influx to efflux leaves.

• Conclusions: Air canals in N. odorata petioles increase in size and number in deeper water but at a decreasing amount in relation to lamina area. Convective flow also depends on the number of influx to efflux laminae.
Within‐ and trans‐generational plasticity affects the opportunity for selection in barbed goatgrass (Aegilops triuncialis)
Authors: Espeland Erin K. , Rice Kevin J.
Published: December 2012

•Premise of the study:Environments are composed of selective agents, and environments may also modify the efficacy of these agents. Environments affect the rate of maximum evolutionary change by influencing variation in relative fitness (i.e., the opportunity for selection, orI). Within‐ and transgenerational plastic environmental responses may affectI, speeding or slowing processes of local adaptation.

•Methods:We determined whether environmental factors affected the opportunity for selection (I) inAegilops triuncialis(barbed goatgrass) by measuringIas a within‐ and transgenerational plastic response to two maternal glasshouse environments (serpentine/dry and loam/moist). We also determined whether this species’ two most common genetic lineages (determined by DNA microsatellite length polymorphism) varied in response to glasshouse treatments.

•Key Results:Opportunity for selection was less for plants grown in the dry serpentine environment than for plants grown in the moist loam environment. This response varied between genetic lineages. The east lineage exhibited a within‐generation response to the dry serpentine environment. For both seed mass and average seed weight in this lineage, the opportunity for selection was lower in dry serpentine than in moist loam. The west lineage had a transgenerational response to the dry serpentine such that the opportunity for selection for seed number and seed mass was lower for plants produced by mothers grown in dry serpentine than for plants produced by mothers in moist loam.

•Conclusions:Phenotypic variation in relative fitness is constrained by the dry serpentine environment, which leads to lower evolvability in this environment. Within‐ and transgenerational effects of the environment may slow local adaptation to serpentine soils.
Deep sequencing of amplicons reveals widespread intraspecific hybridization and multiple origins of polyploidy in big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata; Asteraceae)
Authors: Richardson Bryce A. , Page Justin T. , Bajgain Prabin , Sanderson Stewart C. , Udall Joshua A.
Published: December 2012

• Premise of the study: Hybridization has played an important role in the evolution and ecological adaptation of diploid and polyploid plants. Artemisia tridentata (Asteraceae) tetraploids are extremely widespread and of great ecological importance. These tetraploids are often taxonomically identified as A. tridentata subsp. wyomingensis or as autotetraploids of diploid subspecies tridentata and vaseyana. Few details are available as to how these tetraploids are formed or how they are related to diploid subspecies.

• Methods: We used amplicon sequencing to assess phylogenetic relationships among three recognized subspecies: tridentata, vaseyana, and wyomingensis. DNA sequence data from putative genes were pyrosequenced and assembled from 329 samples. Nucleotide diversity and putative haplotypes were estimated from the high‐read coverage. Phylogenies were constructed from Bayesian coalescence and neighbor‐net network analyses.

• Key results: Analyses support distinct diploid subspecies of tridentata and vaseyana in spite of known hybridization in ecotones. Nucleotide diversity estimates of populations compared to the total diversity indicate the relationships are predominately driven by a small proportion of the amplicons. Tetraploids, including subspecies wyomingensis, are polyphyletic occurring within and between diploid subspecies groups.

• Conclusions: Artemisia tridentata is a species comprising phylogenetically distinct diploid progenitors and a tetraploid complex with varying degrees of phylogenetic and morphological affinities to the diploid subspecies. These analyses suggest tetraploids are formed locally or regionally from diploid tridentata and vaseyana populations via autotetraploidy, followed by introgression between tetraploid groups. Understanding the phylogenetic vs. ecological relationships of A. tridentata subspecies will have bearing on how to restore these desert ecosystems.
Report from the 13th Annual Western Canadian Gastrointestinal Cancer Consensus Conference; Calgary, Alberta; September 8–10, 2011
Authors: Vickers M.M. , Pasieka J. , Dixon E. , McEwan S. , McKay A. , Renouf D. , Schellenberg D. , Ruether D.
Published: December 2012

The 13th annual Western Canadian Gastrointestinal Cancer Consensus Conference was held in Calgary, Alberta, September 8–10, 2011. Health care professionals involved in the care of patients with gastrointestinal cancers participated in presentation and discussion sessions for the purposes of developing the recommendations presented here. This consensus statement addresses current issues in the management neuroendocrine tumours and locally advanced pancreatic cancer.
Melanoma Prevention: Are We Doing Enough? A Canadian Perspective
Authors: Joshua A.M.
Published: December 2012

Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, and its incidence is increasing significantly among Canadians. In parallel with the rising incidence and morbidity, the financial burden caused by this disease will continue to increase dramatically for the government and for individuals alike. More concerted effort to raise awareness of melanoma in Canada is therefore needed. Risk factors—such as family history, childhood sunburn exposure, and age—play a significant role in an individual’s likelihood to develop melanoma. Ultraviolet radiation exposure is the most modifiable variable in melanoma causation. It is therefore important for the general public, in particular the country’s youth, to understand the consequences of lifestyle choices—especially tanning bed use and “sun worshipping.” Many of these issues are not being addressed fully at either the national or the provincial level, with Canadian efforts trailing those of other nations facing similar challenges. Canada also has workforce issues, with an inadequate distribution and number of physicians who can detect and treat melanoma at an early curative stage. With proper education and public awareness, melanoma prevention can be an achievable goal in Canada.
A Retrospective Chart Review Validates Indicator Results and Provides Insight into Reasons for Non-Concordance with Evidence-Based Guidelines
Authors: Klein–Geltink J. , Forte T. , Rahal R. , Niu J. , He D. , Lockwood G. , Cheung W. , Darling G. , Bryant H.
Published: December 2012

As part of the system performance initiative of the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, indicators measuring treatment practice patterns across the country relative to evidence-based guidelines were first published in 2010 and are updated annually. Among the treatment indicators examined is the percentage of resected stage ii and iii rectal cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant (preoperative) radiation therapy (RT), the treatment approach recommended for locally advanced rectal cancer
Mycobacterial Interferon-γ Release Variations During Longterm Treatment with Tumor Necrosis Factor Blockers: Lack of Correlation with Clinical Outcome
Authors: SCRIVO ROSSANA , SAUZULLO ILARIA , MENGONI FABIO , PRIORI ROBERTA , COPPOLA MARIATERESA , IAIANI GIANCARLO , DI FRANCO MANUELA , VULLO VINCENZO , MASTROIANNI CLAUDIO MARIA , VALESINI GUIDO
Published: December 2012

Objective.

To assess the performance of serial QuantiFeron-TB Gold In-Tube (QFT-GIT) tests in patients with rheumatic diseases during longterm systemic treatment with biologic therapy, evaluating conversions and reversions in relation to the clinical outcome.

Methods.

We conducted a prospective study on patients awaiting biologic agents. At baseline, they had chest radiographs, QFT-GIT tests, and tuberculin skin tests (TST); QFT-GIT was repeated at 3, 6, 12, and 18 months after onset of biologic therapy. In patients with no evidence of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) at baseline, TST was repeated at 12 months of biologic treatment.

Results.

Among patients (n = 102; women 65.7%; median age 47 yrs, range 20–82), 14 (13.7%) were considered as having LTBI because of a minimum of 1 abnormal screening test. The agreement between QFT-GIT and TST was 88% (κ = 0.14). During biologic treatment, both patients with (n = 14) and those without (n = 88) evidence of LTBI at baseline showed conversions and reversions in QFT-GIT results at different timepoints. These fluctuations were not paralleled by significant clinical changes. The TST repeated at 12 months in patients with no evidence of LTBI at baseline continued to be negative. The median baseline interferon-γ (IFN-γ) concentration was not significantly different from that observed at each subsequent timepoint.

Conclusion.

Dynamic changes occur with serial IFN-γ release assay testing in patients treated with biologic therapy that do not correlate with clinical outcome. A careful and integrated evaluation of the patient, including clinical information, should guide the treatment decision. This study was underpowered for definite conclusions and further studies are needed to determine the significance of these findings.
Factors Associated with Achievement of Inactive Disease in Children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Treated with Etanercept
Authors: SOLARI NICOLETTA , PALMISANI ELENA , CONSOLARO ALESSANDRO , PISTORIO ANGELA , VIOLA STEFANIA , BUONCOMPAGNI ANTONELLA , GATTORNO MARCO , PICCO PAOLO , RUPERTO NICOLINO , MALATTIA CLARA , MARTINI ALBERTO , RAVELLI ANGELO
Published: December 2012

Objective.

To evaluate the rate of inactive disease in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) treated with etanercept, and to identify clinical characteristics associated with attainment of inactive disease.

Methods.

Clinical charts of patients who were given etanercept between January 2002 and January 2011 were evaluated retrospectively. For each patient, all visits from initiation of etanercept to the last followup evaluation in which the patient was still receiving etanercept were examined to establish whether the patient had reached the state of inactive disease and to identify the first visit in which inactive disease was documented. Clinical characteristics associated with achievement of inactive disease were determined through univariate analyses and Cox regression procedures.

Results.

A total of 173 patients who received etanercept for a median of 2.2 years (range 0.5–10.5 yrs) were studied. Eighty-seven patients (50.3%) achieved inactive disease after a median of 0.6 years (range 0.1–2.5 yrs) of therapy. At last followup evaluation, 85 patients (49.1%) still had inactive disease and 70 (40.5%) were in clinical remission on medication. The probability of achievement of inactive disease after 6, 12, and 24 months of therapy was 24%, 46% and 57%, respectively. On Cox regression analysis, the attainment of inactive disease was associated with lack of wrist involvement and an age at disease onset < 3.6 years.

Conclusion.

Around half of our patients with JIA treated with etanercept achieved a state of inactive disease. Children who lacked wrist involvement and were younger at disease onset had a greater likelihood of achieving inactive disease.
Suggested Model for Business Intelligence in Higher Education
Authors: Alzoabi Zaidoun , Diko Faek , Hanna Saiid
Published: December 2012

BI is playing a major role in achieving competitive advantage in almost every sector of the market, and the higher education sector is no exception. Universities, in general, maintain huge databases comprising data of students, human resources, researches, facilities, and others. Data in these databases may contain decisive information for decision making. In this chapter we will describe a data mining approach as one of the business intelligence methodologies for possible use in higher education. The importance of the model arises from the reality that it starts from a system approach to university management, looking at the university as input, processing, output, and feedback, and then applies different business intelligence tools and methods to every part of the system in order to enhance the business decision making process. The chapter also shows an application of the suggested model on a real case study at the Arab International University.