bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SO2 over central China: Measurements, numerical simulations and the tropospheric sulfur budget
Authors: He Hao , Li Can , Loughner Christopher P. , Li Zhanqing , Krotkov Nickolay A. , Yang Kai , Wang Lei , Zheng Youfei , Bao Xiangdong , Zhao Guoqiang , Dickerson Russell R.
Published: December 2011

SO2in central China was measured in situ from an aircraft and remotely using the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) from the Aura satellite; results were used to develop a numerical tool for evaluating the tropospheric sulfur budget ‐ sources, sinks, transformation and transport. In April 2008, measured ambient SO2 concentrations decreased from ∼7 ppbv near the surface to ∼1 ppbv at 1800 m altitude (an effective scale height of ∼800 m), but distinct SO2 plumes were observed between 1800 and 4500 m, the aircraft's ceiling. These free tropospheric plumes play a major role in the export of SO2 and in the accuracy of OMI retrievals. The mean SO2 column contents from aircraft measurements (0.73 DU, Dobson Units) and operational OMI SO2 products (0.63 ± 0.26 DU) were close. The OMI retrievals were well correlated with in situ measurements (r = 0.84), but showed low bias (slope = 0.54). A new OMI retrieval algorithm was tested and showed improved agreement and bias (r = 0.87, slope = 0.86). The Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) model was used to simulate sulfur chemistry, exhibiting reasonable agreement (r = 0.62, slope = 1.33) with in situ SO2 columns. The mean CMAQ SO2 loading over central and eastern China was 54 kT, ∼30% more than the estimate from OMI SO2 products, 42 kT. These numerical simulations, constrained by observations, indicate that ∼50% (35 to 61%) of the anthropogenic sulfur emissions were transported downwind, and the overall lifetime of tropospheric SO2 was 38 ± 7 h.
Local lunar gravity field analysis over the South Pole‐Aitken basin from SELENE farside tracking data
Authors: Goossens Sander , Ishihara Yoshiaki , Matsumoto Koji , Sasaki Sho
Published: December 2011

We present a method with which we determined the local lunar gravity field model over the South Pole‐Aitken (SPA) basin on the farside of the Moon by estimating adjustments to a global lunar gravity field model using SELENE tracking data. Our adjustments are expressed in localized functions concentrated over the SPA region in a spherical cap with a radius of 45° centered at (191.1°E, 53.2°S), and the resolution is equivalent to a 150th degree and order spherical harmonics expansion. The new solution over SPA was used in several applications of geophysical analysis. It shows an increased correlation with high‐resolution lunar topography in the frequency band l = 40–70, and admittance values are slightly different and more leveled when compared to other, global gravity field models using the same data. The adjustments expressed in free‐air anomalies and differences in Bouguer anomalies between the local solution and the a priori global solution correlate with topographic surface features. The Moho structure beneath the SPA basin is slightly modified in our solution, most notably at the southern rim of the Apollo basin and around the Zeeman crater.
Bullying, School-Based Speech-Language Pathologists, and English Language Learners: Seriousness, Intervention, and Strategy Selection
Authors: Blood Gordon W. , Robins Laura A. , Blood Ingrid M. , Boyle Michael P. , Finke Erinn H.
Published: December 2011

Bullying in schools is a worldwide problem. School personnel, including speech-language pathologists (SLPs), play a critical role in the prevention of, and intervention in, bullying incidences. In this study, the authors examined SLPs' perceptions of bullying and endorsement of potential strategies for dealing with bullying as it relates to English language learners (ELLs). A survey was developed and mailed to 1,000 school-based SLPs. Eight vignettes describing unobserved and observed episodes of physical, verbal, relational, and cyber bullying were included. Survey data from 390 SLPs were analyzed. SLPs perceive physical, verbal, and cyber bullying as serious problems and report the likelihood of some type of intervention. In contrast, relational bullying (e.g., social exclusion, rejection) was rated less serious and likely to require less intervention. The majority of SLPs recommended ELLs should “try to blend in better,” “not be bothered by the bully,” “be more aggressive,” or “ignore the bully” when dealing with relational bullying. This study extends the literature on perceptions of school personnel, specifically SLPs, and their role in preventing student victimization. Many SLPs are likely to assist clients in dealing with physical, verbal, and cyber bullying, but may need further education regarding the seriousness of, and need for intervention in, relational bullying.
Note: Investigation of atom transfer using a red-detuned push beam in a double magneto-optical trap setup
Authors: Ram S. P. , Mishra S. R. , Tiwari S. K. , Mehendale S. C.
Published: December 2011

We present our results on transfer of cold 87Rb atoms from a vapor cell magneto-optical trap to ultrahigh vacuum magneto-optical trap (UHV-MOT) using a red-detuned continuous wave push beam in a double-magneto-optical trap setup. We find that use of retro-reflected red-detuned push laser beam results in higher number in UHV-MOT than the number obtained without retro-reflection of push beam.
Acceleration and distribution of laser-ablated carbon ions near the target surface
Authors: Hoffman J , Moscicki T , Szymanski Z
Published: December 2011

The plasma plume induced during laser ablation of graphite is studied both experimentally and theoretically. The hydrodynamic model applied shows that the high velocities of the plume observed in the experiment result from the large pressure gradient built up during laser–plume interaction. This means that at a low laser intensity of ∼109 W cm−2 the acceleration mechanism is rather gasdynamical than electrostatic. The calculated temporal profiles of plasma temperature and electron density in the early phase of expansion are in reasonable agreement with experimental profiles obtained from emission spectroscopy. The effect of evolution of the plasma temperature on time-of-flight signals is presented. It has been shown that the appearance of ions with higher charge prior to ions with lower charge often ascribed to the effect of the induced electric field can be explained by the evolution of the plume temperature.
Improved diagnostic accuracy for neuroendocrine neoplasms using two chromogranin A assays
Authors: Ramachandran Radha , Bech Paul , Murphy Kevin G. , Dhillo Waljit S. , Meeran Karim M. , Chapman Richard S. , Caplin Martyn , Ghatei Mohammed A. , Bloom Stephen R. , Martin Niamh M.
Published: December 2011

Context  Chromogranin A (Cg A) is the best available diagnostic marker for neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs). However, clinical interpretation of Cg A results may be limited by considerable heterogeneity between commonly available Cg A assays. Variation in diagnostic accuracy of these assays largely reflects differences in antibody specificities. We compared the diagnostic utility of four Cg A assays [Imperial Supra‐regional Assay Service radioimmunoassay (SAS) and three commercial assays, Cisbio, DAKO and Eurodiagnostica].

Method  Plasma Cg A was measured using these four assays in 125 patients with NENs, 41 patients with cancers other than NENs and 108 healthy controls.

Result  There was no significant difference in diagnostic accuracy between any of the four assays alone and no single assay positively identified all patients with NEN. However, concordance between assays was variable. Cisbio and SAS assays were least concordant. We, therefore, hypothesized that using a combination of the least concordant Cg A assays will improve NEN diagnosis by detecting a larger number of Cg A epitopes and hence patients with NEN. Consistent with our hypothesis, multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the combination of Cisbio and SAS assays was more useful than any other combinations or any assay alone in predicting a NEN diagnosis.

Conclusion  Although individually, all four Cg A assays are similarly useful for the measurement of Cg A in the diagnosis of a NEN, in patients with a suspected NEN, negative results by one assay should prompt analysis by a second assay. The combination of Cisbio and SAS assays may have greatest diagnostic utility.
Explaining fire‐driven landscape transformation during the Initial Burning Period of New Zealand's prehistory
Authors: Perry George L. W. , Wilmshurst Janet M. , McGlone Matt S. , McWethy Dave B. , Whitlock Cathy
Published: December 2011

At the time of Māori settlement, ca. 750 years ago, New Zealand's ecosystems experienced catastrophic change, including the introduction of fire to ignition‐limited ecosystems and the resulting widespread loss of forest. While high‐resolution sediment‐charcoal analyses suggest this forest loss was rapid, Māori populations were small and transient during the Initial Burning Period and there is evidence for widespread fire activity in places where there is little archaeological evidence of human presence. These observations beg the question ‘how did small populations manage to transform large areas so rapidly?’ Using a simulation model, we demonstrate how the relationship between time since fire and flammability in New Zealand's forests drives positive feedbacks that allow for rapid and extensive deforestation. Under ignition scenarios mirroring prehuman conditions, the model did not produce significant deforestation – thus, it is extremely unlikely that deforestation could have occurred without human‐initiated burning. Scenarios where ignition was spatio‐temporally random also failed to result in deforestation. Rapid and widespread forest loss occurred in scenarios incorporating spatio‐temporally savvy selection of ignition locations. Targeting ignitions in flammable vegetation was more important than targeting ignitions in years with favourable climatic conditions. However, targeting in space and time concurrently, such that flammable vegetation was ignited during favourable climatic years was the most efficient strategy of those simulated. Following the Initial Burning Period decadal ignitions would have been sufficient to maintain a deforested shrubland/grassland landscape. New Zealand's Initial Burning Period is one of many that occurred across eastern Polynesia following human settlement, and these events have left long‐term legacy effects that remain evident in contemporary landscapes. Improving understanding of how humans shaped environments in New Zealand in the past has implications for eastern Polynesia as a whole.
Pitfalls in the evaluation of melanocytic lesions
Authors: Brenn Thomas
Published: December 2011

Brenn T  (2012) Histopathology 60, 690–705

Pitfalls in the evaluation of melanocytic lesions

The pathology of melanocytic tumours remains one of the most challenging and controversial fields in diagnostic histopathology, and it is one of the leading causes for litigation against pathologists. This is due largely to the wide morphological spectrum and often only subtle differentiating features with potential for both under‐ as well as overdiagnosis of melanoma. Particular pitfalls include the diagnosis of rare and unusual melanoma variants and melanoma resembling naevi. Furthermore, a subset of benign naevi may show concerning features associated more typically with a diagnosis of melanoma. These features include irregular junctional components with pagetoid spread, melanocyte atypia, lack of dermal maturation, dermal mitotic activity, intense melanin pigmentation, a desmoplastic stromal response and dermal regression. This paper focuses on a selected group of benign melanocytic lesions that are notoriously difficult to diagnose, and includes halo naevi, recurrent naevi, mitotically active naevi, desmoplastic naevi, clonal and deep penetrating naevi as well as cellular and plaque type blue naevi. The clinical and histological presentation is discussed with emphasis on clues to the correct diagnosis and distinguishing features from melanoma. Awareness of these entities and their distinguishing clinical and morphological characteristics is essential, as they present major diagnostic pitfalls.
A mixed method evaluation of a group‐based educational programme for CPAP use in patients with obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Broström Anders , Fridlund Bengt , Ulander Martin , Sunnergren Ola , Svanborg Eva , Nilsen Per
Published: December 2011

Rationale, aims and objectives  Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has a low long‐term adherence. Educational interventions are few and sparsely described regarding content, pedagogical approach and participants' perceptions. The aim was to describe adherence to CPAP treatment, knowledge about OSA/CPAP, as well as OSA patients' perceptions of participating in a group‐based programme using problem‐based learning (PBL) for CPAP initiation.

Educational programme  The PBL programme incorporated elements from theories and models concerning motivation and habits. Tutorial groups consisting of four to eight patients met at six sessions during 6 months.

Methods  A sequential explanatory mixed method design was used on 25 strategically selected patients. Quantitative data regarding, clinical variables, OSA severity, CPAP use, and knowledge were collected at baseline, after 2 weeks and 6 months. Qualitative data regarding patients' perceptions of participation were collected after 6 months by semi‐structured interviews using a phenomenographic approach.

Results  72% of the patients were adherent to CPAP treatment after 2 weeks and 6 months. All patients improved their baseline knowledge about OSA and CPAP after 2 weeks and sustained it after 6 months. Anxiety and fear, as well as difficulties and needs were motivational factors for participation. Patients described the difficulties of behavioural change, an awareness that improvements do not occur immediately, a realization of the importance of both technical and emotional support and the need for a healthier lifestyle.

Conclusion and practice implications  A group‐based programme using PBL seems to facilitate adaptive and developmental learning and result in acceptable CPAP adherence levels.
Interaction Between P2X3 and Oestrogen Receptor (ER)α/ERβ in ATP‐Mediated Calcium Signalling In Mice Sensory Neurones
Authors: Cho T. , Chaban V. V.
Published: December 2011

Emerging evidence supports a role of purinergic P2X3 receptors in modulating nociceptive signalling in sensory neurones. Previously, we showed that dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurones (L1–S1) express both oestrogen receptor (ER)α and ERβ receptors. In the present study, we investigated the expression of P2X3 receptors and the effect of 17β‐oestradiol (E2) on the ATP‐induced [Ca2+]i increase in DRG neurones collected from C57Bl/6J, ERα knockout (KO) and ERβKO mice. Our data showed a significant decrease for P2X3 in ERαKO (all levels) and ERβKO (mostly observed in L1, L2, L4 and L6). Furthermore, E2 (100 nm) significantly attenuated the ATP (10 μm)‐induced [Ca2+]i in C57Bl/6J mice. ER antagonist ICI 182,780 (1 μm) blocked this attenuation. Homomeric P2X3 receptors are plentifully expressed in DRG neurones and contribute to nociceptive signals. α,β‐Methylene (α,β‐me) ATP, which is a specific agonist of P2X2/3 receptors, showed similar responses to the ATP‐induced calcium increase in KO mice. A membrane‐impermeable E‐6‐bovine serum albumin (1 μm) had the same effect as E2, suggesting action on the membrane. In DRG neurones from ERβKO and wild‐type mice, E2 attenuated the ATP/α,β‐me ATP‐induced [Ca2+]i fluxes but, in DRG neurones from ERαKO mice, this hormone had no effect, suggesting that this attenuation depends on membrane‐associated ERα receptors. Together, our data indicate an interaction between P2X3 and membrane‐associated ERα in primary sensory neurones that may represent a novel mechanism to explain sex differences observed in the clinical presentation of visceral nociceptive syndromes.
Antigen‐specific T lymphocyte proliferation decreases over time in advanced chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Morishima C. , Di Bisceglie A. M. , Rothman A. L. , Bonkovsky H. L. , Lindsay K. L. , Lee W. M. , Koziel M. J. , Fontana R. J. , Kim H.‐Y. , Wright E. C. ,   the HALT‐C Trial Group
Published: December 2011

Summary.  To evaluate T cell immunity in advanced liver disease, antigen‐specific lymphoproliferative (LP) responses were prospectively studied in the context of the Hepatitis C Antiviral Long‐term Treatment against Cirrhosis trial. Peripheral blood responses to hepatitis C virus (HCV), tetanus and Candida protein antigens were measured at baseline, month 12 (M12), M24, M36 and M48 in 186 patients randomized to either low‐dose peginterferon‐alfa‐2a (PEG‐IFN) only or observation. Liver histology was evaluated at baseline, M24 and M48. Patients with cirrhosis (Ishak 5–6) were less likely to have positive LP responses to HCV at baseline than patients with fibrosis (15%vs 29%, P = 0.03) and had lower levels of HCV c100 responses at baseline, M24 and M48 (P = 0.11, P = 0.05, P = 0.02, respectively). For 97 patients with complete longitudinal data, the frequency of positive LP responses to HCV, tetanus and Candida antigens declined over time (P < 0.003), and the slope of this decline was greater in the PEG‐IFN treatment group than the observation group (P < 0.02). Lower levels of tetanus LP responses were associated with fibrosis progression and clinical outcomes (P = 0.009). Poorer CD4+ T cell proliferative function was associated with more advanced liver disease in chronic hepatitis C and may be further affected by long‐term PEG‐IFN treatment.
Response‐guided therapy for patients with hepatitis C virus genotype 6 infection: a pilot study
Authors: Tangkijvanich P. , Komolmit P. , Mahachai V. , Poovorawan K. , Akkarathamrongsin S. , Poovorawan Y.
Published: December 2011

Summary.  The optimal duration of treatment with pegylated interferon (PEG‐IFN) plus ribavirin (RBV) in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 6 is unknown. This study was aimed at determining treatment response on the basis of rapid virological response (RVR) of HCV genotype 6 in comparison with genotypes 1 and 3. Sixty‐six treatment naïve patients were treated with PEG‐IFN‐α2a (180 μg/week) plus weight‐based RBV (1000–1200 mg/day). Patients with genotype 1 n = 16) and genotype 3 (n = 16) were treated for a fixed duration of 48 and 24 weeks, respectively. Patients with genotype 6 (n = 34) who achieved RVR were treated for 24 weeks (response‐guided therapy) and the remaining patients were treated for 48 weeks (standard therapy). The mean baseline HCV RNA levels were not statistically different between groups (6.4 ± 0.8, 6.0 ± 1.0 and 6.5 ± 0.8 Log10 IU/mL for genotypes 1, 3 and 6, respectively). Patients with genotypes 1, 3 and 6 achieved RVR in 43.8%, 87.5% and 73.5% of cases, respectively. One patient with genotype 1 and 3 with genotype 6 were considered nonresponders and discontinued therapy. Sustained virological response (SVR) was achieved in 62.5%, 81.3% and 76.5% of patients with genotypes 1, 3 and 6, respectively. The SVR rate in patients with genotype 6 who underwent response‐guided therapy was 88%. This pilot study suggested that the SVR rate of HCV genotype 6 was at an intermediate level between those of genotypes 3 and 1. Treatment with PEG‐IFN plus RBV for 24 weeks may be sufficient for patients with genotype 6 who achieve RVR. Prospective randomized trials are required to evaluate this response‐guided strategy in a larger number of patients with genotype 6.
A modified thrombin clotting time test as a quality control marker for heparin contamination in obstetric intraoperative cell salvage
Authors: Sullivan I. J. , Hicks M. K. , Faulds J. N. , Carson P. J. , Noble R. S.
Published: December 2011

Objective: To assess if a modified thrombin clotting time test could be used as a simple quality control (QC) method to screen for unfractionated heparin in the product obtained from obstetric intraoperative cell salvage cases before re‐infusion.

Background: A national QC scheme has recently been piloted to monitor the quality of autologous blood being returned to the patient. Laboratory tests include full blood count and microalbumin. Unfractionated heparin testing should be performed to ensure that there is no gross contamination of heparin in the final product; however, presently, there is no quick cheap test available suitable for heparin detection.

Materials and Methods: Samples were collected into plain non‐anticoagulated tubes and centrifuged at 2500 ×g for 5 min. Supernatant was mixed with commercially available coagulated normal plasma and a thrombin clotting time test performed.

Results: Calibration runs demonstrated that our system was sensitive up to 0·14 IU mL−1 heparin, linear between 0·08 and 0·14 IU mL−1.

Conclusion: We have shown that the thrombin clotting time test can be modified and used as a cheap and reliable marker for heparin contamination. We have successfully incorporated this modified test into our hospital's obstetric QC scheme.
The Importance of Attributional Complexity for Transformational Leadership Studies
Authors: Sun Peter Y. T. , Anderson Marc H.
Published: December 2011

abstract

Attributional complexity refers to the capability of discriminating and integrating dimensions related to social judgment in order to understand social behaviour. While previous leadership research has examined the role of leader attributions, it has neglected the role of attributional complexity. We theorize and find support for a relationship between higher attributional complexity and transformational leadership behaviours, based on a sample of 100 leaders and their direct reports. Leaders who were more complex in their social judgments, attributing complex external and internal causes to others' behaviours and actions, were seen as more transformational by their direct reports. Our findings suggest that attributional complexity is a construct that warrants consideration in future research on both transformational leadership and leadership attributions.
Stationary Gravity Waves with the Zero Mean Vorticity in Stratified Fluid
Authors: Clamond D. , Stepanyants Y.
Published: December 2011

A new approach to the description of stationary plane waves in ideal density stratified incompressible fluid is considered without the application of Boussinesq approximation. The approach is based on the Dubreil‐Jacotin–Long equation with the additional assumption that the mean vorticity of the flow is zero. It is shown that in the linear approximation the spectrum of eigenmodes and corresponding dispersion equations can be found in closed analytical forms for many particular relationships between the fluid density and stream function. Examples are presented for waves of infinitesimal amplitude. Exact expression for the velocity of solitary wave of any amplitude is derived.
Older people's cardiac responses as indicators of stress in familiar and unfamiliar environments
Authors: Lewis M. J. , Phillips J. E.
Published: December 2011

Little is known about older people's physiological and emotional responses to environmental triggers. We examined this by estimating cardiac stress from heart rate variability (HRV). Thirty‐eight participants were monitored while observing environmental scenarios at familiar and unfamiliar locations. Image scenarios included pedestrian and driving scenes in a random order. HRV indices including heart rate (HR), QT variability index (QTVI) and Total HRV Power (TP) were quantified. Familiar locations were associated with higher HR (p < .0005) and lower TP (p = .005) than unfamiliar locations, suggesting they were more stressful. HRV responses to pedestrian and driving scenarios indicated that stress was not influenced by either the type of image scenario or the order of image presentation. There were no gender‐related differences in cardiac responses. HRV is a useful surrogate of cardiac stress when assessing older people's responses to their environments.
Partial information can be transmitted in an auditory channel: Inferences from lateralized readiness potentials
Authors: Gong Diankun , Hu Jiehui , Yao Dezhong
Published: December 2011

With the two‐choice go/no‐go paradigm, we investigated whether timbre attribute can be transmitted as partial information from the stimulus identification stage to the response preparation stage in auditory tone processing. We manipulated two attributes of the stimulus: timbre (piano vs. violin) and acoustic intensity (soft vs. loud) to ensure an earlier processing of timbre than intensity. We associated the timbre attribute more with go trials. Results showed that lateralized readiness potentials (LRPs) were consistently elicited in no‐go trials. This showed that the timbre attribute had been transmitted to the response preparation stage before the intensity attribute was processed in the stimuli identification stage. Such a result provides evidence for the continuous model and asynchronous discrete coding (ADC) model in information processing. We suggest that partial information can be transmitted in an auditory channel.
Identification of differentially expressed microRNAs and their PKC‐isoform specific gene network prediction during hypoxic pre‐conditioning and focal cerebral ischemia of mice
Authors: Liu Cuiying , Peng Zhifeng , Zhang Nan , Yu Li , Han Song , Li Dongguo , Li Junfa
Published: December 2011

J. Neurochem. (2012) 120, 830–841.

We previously reported the involvement of conventional protein kinase C (cPKC) βII, γ, novel PKC (nPKC) ε and their interacting proteins in hypoxic pre‐conditioning (HPC)‐induced neuroprotection. In this study, the large‐scale miRNA microarrays and bioinformatics analysis were used to determine the differentially expressed miRNAs and their PKC‐isoform specific gene network in mouse brain after HPC and 6 h middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). We found 4 up‐regulated and 13 down‐regulated miRNAs in the cortex of HPC mice, 26 increased and 39 decreased gene expressions of miRNAs in the peri‐infarct region of 6 h MCAO mice, and 11 up‐regulated and 22 down‐regulated miRNAs in the peri‐infarct region of HPC and 6 h MCAO mice. Based on Diff Score, 19 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified in HPC and 6 h MCAO mouse brain. Then the miRNA‐gene‐network of 19 specified miRNAs target genes of cPKCβII, γ and nPKCε‐interacting protein was predicted by using bioinformatics analysis of genome databases. Furthermore, the down‐regulated miR‐615‐3p during HPC had a detrimental effect on the oxygen‐glucose deprivation (OGD)‐induced N2A cell injury. These results suggested that the identified 19 miRNAs, notably miR‐615‐3p, might target these genes of cPKCβII, γ and nPKCε‐interacting proteins involved in HPC‐induced neuroprotection.
Outcome of 19 dogs with parathyroid carcinoma after surgical excision*
Authors: Sawyer E. S. , Northrup N. C. , Schmiedt C. W. , Culp W. T. N. , Rassnick K. M. , Garrett L. D. , Selting K. A. , Saba C. F. , Howerth E. W.
Published: December 2011

Parathyroid carcinoma (PTC) is rare in dogs and there is little information documenting its treatment and prognosis. The objective of this study was to describe the outcome of dogs with PTC treated with surgical excision. Medical records of 19 dogs undergoing surgical excision of PTC between 1990 and 2010 were reviewed retrospectively. Dogs were presented for clinical hypercalcaemia or incidental hypercalcaemia noted by referring veterinarians on routine serum chemistry profiles. A parathyroid nodule was identified with cervical ultrasound in 17/17 dogs. Hypercalcaemia resolved in 18/19 dogs within 4 days postoperatively. Nine developed hypocalcaemia. None were confirmed to develop recurrent or metastatic PTC. The only death associated with PTC was a dog that was euthanized for intractable hypocalcaemia 9 days after surgery. Estimated 1‐, 2‐ and 3‐year survival rates were 72, 37 and 30%, respectively. Excision of PTC results in resolution of hypercalcaemia and excellent tumour control.
Variation in OPRM1 and Risk of Suicidal Behavior in Drug‐Dependent Individuals
Authors: Arias Albert J. , Chan Grace , Gelernter Joel , Farrer Lindsay , Kranzler Henry R.
Published: December 2011

Completed suicide and nonfatal suicide‐related outcomes (SROs), such as suicidal ideation and attempts, are heritable. A recent genetic association study in a sample of suicide victims reported a protective effect of the G allele of Asn40Asp (rs1799971) on risk for completed suicide. We examined the association of three OPRM1 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (rs1799971, rs609148, and rs648893) with SRO in 426 European Americans, using GEE logistic regression analysis to examine the association of a lifetime history of SRO. There was no allelic association with the SRO phenotypes. A larger sample may be needed to identify risk variants that convey SRO risk. OPRM1 may not be important in the risk of SRO. (Am J Addict 2011;21:5–10)
Therapeutic Apheresis Rescue Mission: Recurrent Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis in Renal Allografts
Authors: Keith Douglas Scott
Published: December 2011

Recurrent idiopathic focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) after renal transplantation can lead to a rapid failure of the allograft. A circulating, nonimmunoglobulin factor appears to be important in the pathogenesis of this complication in many cases. Between 30% and 50% of transplant recipients with FSGS develop recurrent disease. Three major risk factors for recurrence have been identified: short duration of native kidney disease, history of recurrence with previous kidney transplant, and pediatric aged recipients. Although no properly controlled trials have been conducted, plasmapheresis has emerged as one of the important treatment modalities for this entity. Retrospective studies prior to the routine use of plasmapheresis showed graft loss rates as high as 80%, a rate much higher than that seen in more recent series managed with plasmapheresis. Duration and intensity of treatment of plasmaphersis have not been studied rigorously, but in most case series, plasmapheresis was continued until a clear diminution of proteinuria was seen. The benefit of other adjuvant therapies for this condition remains unclear, but also may play a role in the treatment of this entity.
A Critical Review on the Use of Lipid Apheresis and Rheopheresis for Treatment of Peripheral Arterial Disease and the Diabetic Foot Syndrome
Authors: Weiss Norbert
Published: December 2011

Lipid apheresis effectively lowers LDL‐cholesterol even in drug‐unresponsive severely hypercholesterolemic patients. This results in improvement of symptoms of coronary artery disease, reduces progression of coronary atherosclerosis, and decreases coronary event rates. Besides aggressive lipid lowering itself, these effects may also be due to nonselective removal of other high molecular weight proteins leading to improved hemorheology. Lipid apheresis is also used for treating symptoms of vascular diseases outside the coronary arteries, such as peripheral arterial disease and the angioneuropathic diabetic foot syndrome. This review discusses putative effects of lipid apheresis and rheophereis on restoring pathophysiological processes involved in the development of symptoms of peripheral arterial disease, critical limb ischemia, and the diabetic foot syndrome. The clinical experience with lipid apheresis and rheopheresis in treating patients with peripheral arterial disease and the diabetic foot syndrome is critically reviewed and put into the context of currently available established treatment options. Based on this analysis, the limitations of current evidence are discussed and potential fields of research are suggested.
Effects of Exchange Transfusion With Liposome‐Encapsulated Hemoglobin on VO2/DO2
Authors: Ikegawa Hitoshi , Kuwagata Yasuyuki , Hayakawa Koichi , Noguchi Kazuo , Ogura Hiroshi , Sugimoto Hisashi
Published: December 2011

We clarified the effect of exchange transfusion with liposome‐encapsulated hemoglobin (neo red cells, NRCs) with low O2 affinity (P50O2 = 50 mm Hg) on O2 metabolism. Rabbits were randomly assigned to receive serial exchange transfusions with NRC (NRC group, n = 5), shed blood diluted 1:1 with saline (red blood cell (RBC) group, n = 5), or saline alone (plasma group, n = 4) under hemodynamic monitoring. Cardiac tamponade was then induced and successively reversed to determine relationships between O2 consumption (VO2) and O2 delivery (DO2) using the dual‐line method. Mean values of Hb concentration after exchange transfusion were 5.7 (NRC), 6.0 (RBC), and 1.5 (plasma) g/dL. The plasma group could not even survive the initial exchange hemodilution due to a critical decrease in DO2. The NRC, but not the RBC group, developed progressive metabolic acidosis and lactatemia, as well as increases in PaCO2 and decreases in tissue PO2 in skeletal muscle after exchange transfusion. Nonetheless, systemic O2 uptake indices obtained from an analysis of the VO2/DO2 relationship in the NRC and RBC groups were comparable. These findings suggested that systemic O2 uptake was maintained in rabbits after exchange transfusion with NRC, although progressive tissue hypoxia with systemic acidosis is indicative of inadequate peripheral circulation and insufficient aerobic metabolism during extended hemodilution in which 86% of the circulating blood is replaced.
Radical Moderation: Recapturing Power in Two‐Party Parliamentary Systems
Authors: Kalandrakis Tasos , Spirling Arthur
Published: December 2011

We estimate the parameters of a reputational game of political competition using data from five two‐party parliamentary systems. We find that latent party preferences (and party reputations) persist with high probability across election periods, with one exception: parties with extreme preferences who find themselves out of power switch to moderation with higher probability than the equivalent estimated likelihood for parties in government (extreme or moderate) or for moderate parties in opposition. We find evidence for the presence of significant country‐specific differences. We subject the model to a battery of goodness‐of‐fit tests and contrast model predictions with survey and vote margin data not used for estimation. Finally, according to the estimated model parameters, Australia is less than half as likely to experience extreme policies and Australian governments can expect to win more consecutive elections in the long run as compared to their counterparts in Greece, Malta, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
Focal Initiation of Sustained and Nonsustained Ventricular Tachycardia in a Canine Model of Ischemic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: JOHNSON CAROLYN M. , POGWIZD STEVEN M.
Published: December 2011

Focal Initiation of Ventricular Tachycardia in Ischemic HF. 

Introduction: To define the role of focal and reentrant mechanisms underlying nonsustained (NSVT) and sustained ventricular tachycardia (SuVT) induced by programmed stimulation, 3‐dimensional cardiac mapping was performed in 8 dogs with heart failure (HF) created by multiple intracoronary microsphere embolizations.

Methods and Results: Continuous recording from 232 intramural sites throughout the left and right ventricles and the interventricular septum was performed during programmed stimulation in the absence and presence of isoproterenol (Iso, 0.1 μg/kg/min). Sinus beats and the last extrastimuli preceding induced VT conducted with total activation times (TA) of 51 ± 10 and 111 ± 8 milliseconds, respectively, that did not change during Iso infusion (47 ± 4 and 109 ± 5 milliseconds, P = NS). NSVT was induced in 75% of HF dogs; SuVT was induced in 38%. In all cases, initiation and maintenance of SuVT and NSVT arose by a focal mechanism. Compared to NSVT, SuVT had a shorter coupling interval (CI; 150 ± 7 vs 186 ± 16, P < 0.05) and a predilection for certain critical subendocardial initiation sites (that were initiation sites for only 29% of NSVT beats). After 21–30 beats, acceleration of SuVT by a focal mechanism to a CI less than 120 milliseconds led to functional conduction delay (TA increasing from 111 ± 3 to 137 ± 3 milliseconds, P < 0.0001), intramural reentry, and transition to ventricular fibrillation.

Conclusions: Thus, initiation of SuVT in a model of ischemic HF is due to a focal mechanism. However, subsequent acceleration of this focal mechanism can ultimately lead to functional conduction delay and development of intramural reentry.

(J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 543‐552, May 2012)
Preimplant Transthoracic Echocardiographic Assessment of Continuous Flow Left Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Stout Martin , Ravindran Roshan , Miller Christopher , Pearce Keith
Published: December 2011

For many patients with end‐stage heart failure, heart transplantation is the only remaining option to prolong survival and provide symptom relief. Transthoracic echo is the modality of choice in assessing a patient for potential left ventricular assist device (LVAD) insertion. There are currently no guidelines available, and assessing this specific patient population can prove extremely challenging. As such, an understanding of LVAD mechanism, the important physiological consequences of device implantation together with the related echocardiographic examination is vital to accurately and effectively gauge correct patient selection and also improve implantation success. This review aims to highlight the common devices implanted, how these devices affect cardiac physiology and hemodynamics, and therefore discuss the major echocardiographic variables that should be assessed predevice implantation. (Echocardiography 2012;29:52‐58)
Parent Involvement as Ritualized Practice
Authors: DOUCET FABIENNE
Published: December 2011

This article examines parent involvement (PI) as a ritual system using Turner's concept of root paradigms. Through a twofold analysis, I argue that the highly ritualized nature of PI practices creates a group identity among mainstream parents and schools that marginalizes diverse families. First, I point out three root paradigms in the ritual system of PI. Second, I provide an empirical example using the experiences of Haitian immigrant parents in greater Boston. [parent involvement, schools, rituals, immigrants, social class]
The role of host seed size in mediating a latitudinal body size cline in an introduced bruchid beetle in Japan
Authors: Sadakiyo Shou , Ishihara Michihiro
Published: December 2011

A wide variety of animals show latitudinal cline in body size, which can be caused not only by abiotic factors such as temperature but also by biotic ones such as diet quality. In seed feeding insects, adult body size is affected by seed size. Therefore, seed size may be an important factor to explain the latitudinal cline in body size if the seed size also shows a latitudinal cline. In the present study, we detected a latitudinal cline in body size of an alien bruchid, Acanthoscelides pallidipennis, which was introduced into Japan from North America with its host plant Amorpha fruticosa. In 13 out of 24 populations that we collected in Japan, A. fruticosa seeds were infested with A. pallidipennis. Both body size of A. pallidipennis and host seed weight increased with latitude in the infested populations, but not in the non‐infested populations. There was a significant positive correlation between body size and seed weight in both field observation and laboratory experiment. In a common environmental condition, there was no significant difference in body size among three latitudinally different populations. Our results show that the latitudinal cline in adult body size of A. pallidipennis across a non‐native range could be explained by the latitudinal cline in seed weight of A. fruticosa, but not by genetic differentiation among populations.
Local prey vulnerability increases with multiple attacks by a predator
Authors: Quinn John L. , Cresswell Will
Published: December 2011

Theory and empirical evidence suggest that predator activity makes prey more wary and less vulnerable to predation. However if at least some prey in the population are energetically or spatially constrained, then predators may eventually increase local prey vulnerability because of the cumulative costs of anti‐predation behaviour. We tested whether repeated attacks by a predator might increase prey vulnerability in a system where redshanks on a saltmarsh are attacked regularly by sparrowhawks from adjacent woodland. Cumulative attack number led to a reduction in redshank numbers and flock size (but had no effect on how close redshanks fed to predator‐concealing cover) because some redshanks moved to safer but less profitable habitats, leaving smaller flocks on the saltmarsh. This effect held even though numbers of redshank on the saltmarsh increased with time of day. As a result of the change in flock size, predicted attack‐success increased up to 1.6‐fold for the sparrowhawk, while individual risk of capture for the redshank increased up to 4.5‐fold among those individuals remaining on the saltmarsh. The effect did not arise simply because hawks were more likely to attack smaller flocks because attack rate was not dependent on flock size or abundance. Our data demonstrate that when some individual prey are constrained in their ability to feed on alternative, safer foraging sites, their vulnerability to predation increases as predator attacks accumulate, although those, presumably better quality individuals that leave the immediate risky area will have lower vulnerability, so that the mean vulnerability across the entire population may not have changed substantially. This suggests that the selective benefits of multiple low‐cost attacks by predators on prey could potentially lead to 1) locally heightened trait‐mediated interactions, 2) locally reduced interference among competing predators, and 3) the evolution of active prey manipulation by predators.
Hypothermia for neonatal encephalopathy: Nationwide Survey of Clinical Practice in Japan as of August 2010
Authors: Iwata Osuke , Nabetani Makoto , Takenouchi Toshiki , Iwaibara Takayuki , Iwata Sachiko , Tamura Masanori ,   on behalf of the Working Group on Therapeutic Hypothermia for Neonatal Encephalopathy, Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, Japan, and Japan Society for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine
Published: December 2011

Background:  Therapeutic hypothermia is now recommended as a standard of care for neonatal encephalopathy. Although adherence to standard cooling protocols used in the phase‐III trials is essential, empiric approaches have prevailed in Japan.

Aim:  To elucidate the gap between the standard cooling methods and the current practice in Japan.

Method:  In July 2010, a questionnaire regarding the practice of neonatal encephalopathy was mailed to clinical leads of registered neonatal intensive care units.

Result:  56.2% of the units were incapable of offering therapeutic hypothermia because of the reasons such as the shortage of human/medical resources (85.1%) and limited number of cases (21.1%). Eighty‐nine centres provided therapeutic hypothermia using either selective‐head cooling (88.8%) or whole‐body cooling (11.2%). Various target temperatures and cooling durations were used; 20.2% of the units cooled infants without using purpose‐built equipments, whereas 14.6% did not continuously monitor the body temperature.

Discussion:  Only 43.8% of the units provided therapeutic hypothermia. Even in centres where hypothermia was offered, adherence to the standard protocols was extremely poor. To secure the safety and efficacy, further promotion of the standard cooling protocols is required; an efficient cooling centre network has to be established by optimizing the work forth distribution and transportation system.
Ambulatory physical activity levels of white and South Asian children in Central England
Authors: Duncan Michael J , Birch Samantha , Al‐Nakeeb Yahya , Nevill Alan M
Published: December 2011

Aims:  To assess ambulatory physical activity in white and south Asian children from Central England and to examine variation in activity between weekdays and weekends.

Methods:  536 primary school children [255 boys and 281 girls, mean age (SD) = 9.6 (1.0) years] wore a sealed pedometer for 4 days (2 weekend and 2 weekdays). Repeated measures analysis of covariance was used to examine weekend versus weekday, gender, ethnic and socio‐economic status differences in steps/day controlling for age, hours of daylight and body mass index (BMI).

Results:  Children attained significantly higher mean steps/day during weekdays than weekends (p = 0.001) with age being more strongly associated with weekend than weekday steps/day (p = 0.014). The decline in steps/day from weekdays to weekends was greater in high compared to low socio‐economic status children (p = 0.002). White children attained higher mean steps/day than south Asian children (p = 0.015). BMI was negatively associated with steps/day (p = 0.004). 39.2 and 29.9% of white and south Asian children met the BMI‐referenced cut‐offs for health.

Conclusion:  Physical activity was greater during weekdays compared to weekends, was associated with BMI, age and socio‐economic status and white children were more active than south Asian children.
Effect of Single and Contiguous Teeth Extractions on Alveolar Bone Remodeling: A Study in Dogs
Authors: Al‐Askar Mansour , O'Neill Rory , Stark Paul C. , Griffin Terrence , Javed Fawad , Al‐Hezaimi Khalid
Published: December 2011

Background: Tooth extraction is associated with dimensional changes in the alveolar ridge. The aim was to examine the effect of single versus contiguous teeth extractions on the alveolar ridge remodeling.

Material and Methods: Five female beagle dogs were randomly divided into three groups on the basis of location (anterior or posterior) and number of teeth extracted – exctraction socket classification: group 1 (one dog): single‐tooth extraction; group 2 (two dogs): extraction of two teeth; and group 3 (two dogs): extraction of three teeth in four anterior sites and four posterior sites in both jaws. The dogs were sacrificed after 4 months. Sagittal sectioning of each extraction site was performed and evaluated using microcomputed tomography.

Results: Buccolingual or palatal bone loss was observed 4 months after extraction in all three groups. The mean of the alveolar ridge width loss in group 1 (single‐tooth extraction) was significantly less than those in groups 2 and 3 (p < .001) (multiple teeth extraction). Three‐teeth extraction (group 3) had significantly more alveolar bone loss than two‐teeth extraction (group 2) (p < .001). The three‐teeth extraction group in the upper and lower showed more obvious resorption on the palatal/lingual side especially in the lower group posterior locations.

Conclusion: Contiguous teeth extraction caused significantly more alveolar ridge bone loss as compared with when a single tooth is extracted.