bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fluctuating resource availability increases invasibility in microbial microcosms
Authors: Li Wei , Stevens M. Henry H.
Published: September 2011

The fluctuating resource hypothesis (FRH) proposes that fluctuations in resource supply can temporally reduce competitive pressure from resident species, thereby providing ephemeral opportunities for invading species. Although FRH has the potential to integrate many existing hypotheses regarding mechanisms of community invasibility, previous tests and evaluations of FRH were based on single trophic level, did not take the timing effect into account, and had difficulties in distinguishing the effects of resource pulses from other simultaneous processes. Here we test FRH in multi‐trophic aquatic microcosms by creating resource pulses, by controlling resource quantity, propagule supply and pulse recurrence frequency, and by manipulating the timing of pulses relative to the timing of the arrival of new species (i.e. invaders) to local communities. The novelty of our work lies in that we directly manipulate resource pulse timing relative to invader introduction events and thus demonstrate the importance of this timing effect for community invasibility. Our study supports FRH in general: invasion success was positively related to resource pulses, and invaders had strong performance in treatments receiving coincident pulses, although not all invaders gained more benefit when resources were supplied at large‐magnitude than supplied at continuous rates. Since many ecosystems worldwide are experiencing high rates of anthropogenic nutrient input and increasing rates of precipitation, these ecosystems are potentially more fragile and susceptible to invasion. More experiments across multiple ecosystem types are needed to help formulate a general theory of community invasibility.
Complex shifts between food web states in response to whole‐ecosystem manipulations
Authors: Schröder Arne , Persson Lennart , de Roos André M.
Published: September 2011

Food webs can respond in surprising and complex ways to temporary alterations in their species composition. When such a perturbation is reversed, food webs have been shown to either return to the pre‐perturbation community state or remain in the food web configuration that established during the perturbation. Here we report findings from a replicated whole‐lake experiment investigating food web responses to a perturbation and its consecutive reversal. We could identify three distinct community states in the food web that corresponded to the periods before, during and after the perturbation. Most importantly, we demonstrate the establishment of a distinct post‐perturbation food web configuration that differed from both the pre‐ and during‐perturbation communities in phytoplankton biomass and micro‐ and mesozooplankton species composition. We suggest that the pre‐ and post‐perturbation food web configurations may represent two alternative stable community states. We provide explanations for how each of the contrasting communities may be maintained through altered species interactions. These findings add to the discussion of how natural food webs react to environmental change and imply that the range of potential ecosystem dynamics in response to perturbations can be wider and more complex than is often recognized.
Phenotypic plasticity and bet‐hedging in a heterocarpic winter annual/spring ephemeral cold desert species of Brassicaceae
Authors: Lu Juan J. , Tan Dun Y. , Baskin Jerry M. , Baskin Carol C.
Published: September 2011

Phenotypic plasticity can play an important role in colonization and survival of plants in an environmentally fluctuating habitat. The primary aim of this study was to determine the influence of level of abiotic (soil moisture and nutrient availability) and biotic (density and herbivory) factors on phenotypic plasticity in the number and proportional mass allocation to the heteromorphic dehiscent upper (high dispersal, low dormancy) and indehiscent lower (low dispersal, high dormancy) siliques of individuals of the cold desert winter annual/spring ephemeral Diptychocarpus strictus derived from different seed morphs. Plants produced from seeds sown in an experimental garden were subjected to different levels of soil moisture, nutrient supply, density and simulated herbivory. Mass allocated to vegetative and reproductive components was measured and number of upper and lower siliques counted. Except for number ratio of upper: lower siliques under nutrient supply, levels of the four treatments resulted in significant variation in total plant mass, reproductive mass, number of siliques (upper and lower), number and mass of each silique morph, individual seed mass, upper/lower silique ratio and mass allocation to each organ in an individual. In favorable environments, the upper/lower silique ratio was relatively high, while in unfavorable environments it was relatively low. The relative allocation to upper and lower siliques was significantly negatively correlated, suggesting that allocation to upper siliques in good growth conditions occurred at the expense of allocation to lower siliques. This appears to be the first report on the effect of herbivory on diaspore morph ratio in heterocarpic plants and one of only a very few on the effect of density on morph ratio in this group. In D. strictus, stressful vs nonstressful growth conditions caused a shift in the ratio of heteromorphic diaspores, which themselves are assumed to be bet‐hedging.
Evaluation of oral mucosal diseases: inter‐ and intra‐observer analyses
Authors: Zadik Yehuda , Orbach Hadas , Panzok Amy , Smith Yoav , Czerninski Rakefet
Published: September 2011

J Oral Pathol Med (2012) 41: 68–72

Background:  Essential to the diagnosis and management of oral mucosal diseases are visual evaluation and monitoring of the oral cavity. Digital photography has recently become an important clinical tool. The aims of this study were to (i) evaluate inter‐ and intra‐observer differences between oral medicine and other dental specialists when assessing changes in oral mucosal pathology and (ii) assess the influence of calibration labels incorporated into the clinical images on the reliability and consistency of evaluation.

Methods:  Ten oral medicine specialists (OM) and 10 other dental specialists (DS) participated in the study. Pairs of images captured with an intraoral camera at two time points from 17 cases of mucosal diseases were presented to the participants. Each pair of photographs was presented with a calibration label (showing length and white to black hues) and again without one. The participants were asked to respond to a questionnaire evaluating changes in size, color, location, and severity for each image pair.

Results:  Oral medicine specialists had better absolute agreement and consistency than DS when evaluating the changes in the images; however, these parameters did not exceed 52% in either group. The incorporation of a calibration label in the images increased agreement and consistency of evaluations in both groups.

Conclusions:  Follow‐up evaluations of oral mucosal lesions are performed better by oral medicine practitioners compared to other dental specialists. The incorporation of a calibration label in the clinical images seems to enhance evaluation.
Molecular events associated with ciclosporin A‐induced gingival overgrowth are attenuated by Smad7 overexpression in fibroblasts
Authors: Sobral L. M. , Aseredo F. , Agostini M. , Bufalino A. , Pereira M. C. C. , Graner E. , Coletta R. D.
Published: September 2011

Sobral LM, Aseredo F, Agostini M, Bufalino A, Pereira MCC, Graner E, Coletta RD. Molecular events associated with ciclosporin A‐induced gingival overgrowth are attenuated by Smad7 overexpression in fibroblasts. J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 149–158. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Background and Objective:  Ciclosporin A (CsA)‐induced gingival overgrowth is attributed to an exaggerated accumulation of extracellular matrix, which is mainly due to an increased expression of transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1). Herein, the in vitro investigation of effects of overexpression of Smad7, a TGF‐β1 signaling inhibitor, in the events associated with CsA‐induced extracellular matrix accumulation was performed.

Material and Methods:  The effects of Smad7 were assessed by stable overexpression of Smad7 in fibroblasts from normal gingiva. Smad7‐overexpressing cells and control cells were incubated with CsA, and synthesis of type I collagen, production and activity of MMP‐2 and cellular proliferation were evaluated by ELISA, zymography, growth curve, bromodeoxyuridine incorporation assay and cell cycle analysis. The effects of CsA on cell viability and apoptosis of fibroblasts from normal gingiva were also evaluated. Western blot and immunofluorescence for phospho‐Smad2 were performed to measure the activation of TGF‐β1 signaling.

Results:  Although the treatment with CsA stimulated TGF‐β1 production in both control and Smad7‐overexpressing fibroblasts, its signaling was markedly inhibited in Smad7‐overexpressing cells, as revealed by low levels of phospho‐Smad2. In Smad7‐overexpressing cells, the effects of CsA on proliferation, synthesis of type I collagen and the production and activity of MMP‐2 were significantly blocked. Smad7 overexpression blocked CsA‐induced fibroblast proliferation via p27 regulation. Neither CsA nor Smad7 overexpression induced cell death.

Conclusion:  The data presented here confirm that TGF‐β1 expression is related to the molecular events associated with CsA‐induced gingival overgrowth and suggest that Smad7 overexpression is effective in blocking these events, including proliferation, type I collagen synthesis and MMP‐2 activity.
A possible melanoma discrimination index based on hyperspectral data: a pilot study
Authors: Nagaoka Takashi , Nakamura Atsushi , Okutani Haruka , Kiyohara Yoshio , Sota Takayuki
Published: September 2011

Background

Early detection and proper excision of the primary lesions of malignant melanoma (MM) are crucial for reducing melanoma‐related deaths. To support the early detection of melanoma, automated melanoma screening systems have been extensively studied and developed. In this article, we present a hyperspectral melanoma screening system and propose a possible melanoma discrimination index derived from the characteristics of the pigment molecules in the skin, both of which have been derived from hyperspectral data (HSD).

Methods

The index expresses the disordered nature of each lesion including variegation in color based on variation in spectral information obtained from each lesion. Performance of the index in discriminating melanomas from other pigmented skin lesions has been studied in five cases of melanoma (41 HSD sets), one case of Spitz nevus (13 HSD sets), 10 cases of seborrheic keratosis (78 HSD sets), three cases of basal cell carcinoma (16 HSD sets), and nine cases of melanocytic nevus (21 HSD sets), obtained from patients and volunteers, all of whom were Japanese.

Results

Performance of the index, which reflects the disordered nature of a lesion, discriminates melanomas with a sensitivity of 90%, a specificity of 84%, and an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.93, on resubstitution.

Conclusion

An objective melanoma discrimination index at a molecular pigmentary level, derived from HSD, has been proposed, and its performance evaluated. This index was highly successful in discriminating MM from non‐melanoma, although the statistical population was small.
Criteria for diagnosing pemphigus vulgaris and pemphigus foliaceus by reflectance confocal microscopy
Authors: Kurzeja Marta , Rakowska Adriana , Rudnicka Lidia , Olszewska Malgorzata
Published: September 2011

Background

Pemphigus is an autoimmune, bullous disease affecting the skin and mucous membranes. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and pemphigus foliaceus (PF), may be diagnosed using reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM).

Methods

Thirty patients (18 with PV and 12 with PF) were included into the study. In total, 36 PV lesions and 29 PF lesions were examined. Healthy‐appearing skin adjacent to skin lesions and not adjacent to skin lesions was also investigated.

Results

Intraepidermal clefts (bullae) with acantholytic cells were observed in 47% of PV lesions and 59% of PF lesions. Multiple dilated blood vessels in the upper dermis were observed using RCM in 61% of PV lesions and in 86% of PF lesions. RCM features of pemphigus also included presence of inflammatory infiltrates, loss of typical honeycomb pattern of the epidermis, and detachment of the outer root sheath in hair follicles. In 20–64% of cases, RCM features, which are characteristic for PV and PF lesions were also observed in the proximity of these lesions within the healthy‐appearing skin. Following criteria for RCM diagnosis of pemphigus were developed: (i) acantholytic clefts in RCM of a lesion, (ii) acantholytic clefts in RCM of healthy‐appearing skin adjacent to a lesion, (iii) multiple‐dilated blood vessels in RCM of a lesion. Fulfillment of two of these three criteria is sufficient to establish a RCM diagnosis of pemphigus. These criteria do not differentiate between PV and PF.

Conclusions

RCM is useful for rapid, non‐invasive, in‐office differential diagnosis of pemphigus. RCM does not replace immunologic and histopathologic examinations, which remain the gold standard for establishing the final diagnosis of PV and PF.
Invasive non‐native species attributes and invasion extent: examining the importance of grain size
Authors: Akasaka Munemitsu , Takada Masayuki , Kitagawa Rie , Igarashi Hiroshi
Published: September 2011

Questions

Do differences in species attributes explain the variation in invasion extent among non‐native plant species? Which attributes of the invasion process exhibit scale dependency and which do not?

Location

Hokkaido prefecture, northern Japan.

Methods

We calculated the invasion extent of 316 non‐native plant species based on gridded maps at three different spatial scales (grain size of approximately 2 km × 2 km, 10 km × 10 km and 80 km × 80 km). Relationships between the invasion extent of 316 non‐native plant species and their attributes that are likely to enhance introduction (human use and introduction period), establishment (height, clonality, longevity and life form) and expansion (seed size, introduction period) were evaluated using phylogenetic regression.

Results

Irrespective of grain size, non‐native species with clonality, those used as fodder or for landscaping, and those with a historically earlier introduction period had significantly larger invasion extents than species without such attributes. In contrast, seed size, which is related to successful expansion, was negatively correlated with invasion extent and was significant only at the finest grain.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the presence of scale‐dependent responses of the species attributes on their grain size may be caused by the invasion process to which the attribute is related. When developing general rules for invasiveness, researchers must consider the grain size at which the invasion extent is calculated.
Does Value Congruence Lead to Voice? Cooperative Voice and Cooperative Silence under Team and Differentiated Transformational Leadership
Authors: Wang An-Chih , Hsieh Hsu-Hung , Tsai Chou-Yu , Cheng Bor-Shiuan
Published: September 2011

This study seeks to resolve a puzzle of the coexistence of follower cooperative voice and cooperative silence (expressing/withholding work-related ideas, information, and opinions based on collective, cooperative motives) in the presence of transformational leadership. A sample of 193 bank employees under 52 managers revealed that in the presence of group-focused transformational leadership, both voice and silence based on cooperative motives increased through the mediation of value congruence between leaders and followers. However, cooperative voice was more likely to be the main response to a high level of value congruence when followers under the same leader perceived individual-focused transformational leadership uniformly. Under a high level of differentiated individual-focused transformational leadership, value congruence was likely to result in more cooperative silence. We discuss implications for future research on both leadership and employee voice.
Institutional Sources of Reform: The Diffusion of Land Banking Systems in China
Authors: Zhang Yanlong
Published: September 2011

An important change in China's urban land management system is the diffusion of land banking systems – official agencies that govern local land conversions, preparation, and transactions. In this article, I draw on neoinstitutional theory in organizational studies to explore the forces that promote this transformation. I propose-besides rational calculations and indigenous impetus for reform, institutional forces that play a crucial role in accelerating the diffusion process. Event history analysis shows that, over time, local economic characteristics have a declining effect on the adoption of land banking systems and gradually yield to pressure from peer cities, provincial governments, policy professionals, and policy-making communities. Moreover, intergovemmental fiscal arrangements and political status moderate the effect of provincial pressure.
Hyperactivity induced by prenatal BrdU exposure across several experimental conditions
Authors: Kuwagata Makiko , Ogawa Tetsuo , Muneoka Katsumasa , Shioda Seiji
Published: September 2011

Behavioral results are sometimes not reproducible even in the positive controls of developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) tests. Effects of several factors on the results should be considered. In the present paper, we examined the effects of strain‐, gender‐, and test‐condition differences on BrdU‐induced hyperactivity. The results showed that BrdU‐induced hyperactivity was reproducible in two rat strains (SD and F344 rats), rodent species (rat and mouse), and both sexes. When the level of background sound in a test room was increased, the hyperactivity was persistent, resulting in no effect of background sound on BrdU‐induced hyperactivity. Thus, we have demonstrated that the BrdU‐animal model is a useful positive control via prenatal exposure to validate the entire DNT test process.
Geriatric assessment and intervention in an emergency department observation unit reduced re‐attendance and hospitalisation rates
Authors: Foo Chik Loon , Siu Vivian Wing Yin , Tan Thai Lian , Ding Yew Yoong , Seow Eillyne
Published: September 2011

Aim:  To determine the efficacy of geriatric assessment and intervention in an emergency department observation unit (EDOU).

Methods:  This was a single‐centre, before/after prospective study. The control group received the usual EDOU care. Intervention group received geriatric assessment and intervention before discharge. Patients were followed up at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. End‐points included falls and functional scores obtained via telephone, and unscheduled ED re‐attendance and hospitalisation obtained through electronic records.

Results:  The study population included 172 control and 315 intervention group patients. A total of 71.7% of patients in the intervention group had hidden needs that required intervention. The intervention group had significantly less ED re‐attendance (adjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR) 0.59, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.48–0.71) and hospitalisation rates (adjusted IRR 0.64, 95% CI 0.51–0.79) at 12 months.

Conclusion:  Older patients admitted to an EDOU are an at‐risk group and benefit from geriatric assessment before discharge.
Skin necrosis of scrotum due to endovascular embolisation: a case report
Authors: Cervelli Valerio , Brinci Lorenzo , Palla Ludovico , Spallone Diana , Izzo Valentina , Curcio Cristiano Beniamino , Lucarini Lucilla , De Angelis Barbara
Published: September 2011

The aim of our case report was to analyse the results obtained with the Matriderm® system and autologous skin grafting for the surgical treatment of skin necrosis of scrotum as a result of endovascular embolisation. We recruited one patient with scrotum skin necrosis as a result of endovascular embolisation admitted at the department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata’. The patient underwent Matriderm® system and autologous skin grafting for skin necrosis treatment. After a single treatment, reduction of the skin necrosis was obtained, after 30 days from the surgical treatment. Patient experienced a reduction in pain and a complete restoration of the loss in volume and quality of skin was noticed. Matriderm® system and autologous skin grafting is a simple, safe and feasible technique. When comparing this treatment with others, Matriderm® is a simpler, more economic and less time‐consuming method, and does not require sophisticated laboratory facilities.
Potential Risks of Chronic Sildenafil Use for Priapism in Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Lane Andrew , Deveras Ruby
Published: September 2011

Introduction

Priapism is a common concern in sickle cell disease. With a high frequency of recurrences and serious long-term sequela, a preventative, rather than traditionally reactive approach, needs to be taken in these patients. Reports have shown successful use of sildenafil as a prophylactic treatment but have failed to address adverse outcomes, including vasoocclusive pain crises, of chronic sildenafil therapy in sickle cell patients.

Aims

We wish to draw attention to the potential adverse outcomes of this therapy on the overall state of the patient's disease for consideration in future studies.

Methods

We used sildenafil in a patient suffering from almost daily attacks of priapism.

Results

Sildenafil was successful in decreasing the frequency of priapism; however, our patient experienced an increased frequency of vasoocclusive crises, something not previously addressed.

Conclusion

Future studies of sildenafil use in sickle cell disease need to assess the global state of the disease, not just the frequency of priapism.
Efficient strategies for changing the diapause character of silkworm eggs and for the germline transformation of diapause silkworm strains
Authors: Zhao Ai‐Chun , Long Ding‐Pei , Ma San‐Yuan , Xu Long‐Xia , Zhang Mei‐Rong , Dai Fang‐Yin , Xia Qing‐You , Lu Cheng , Xiang Zhong‐Huai
Published: September 2011

Abstract  To overcome the disadvantages of current silkworm Bombyx mori transgenic technology, such as costly and time‐consuming to maintain non‐diapause transgenic silkworms, we report here on the development of treatments for the germline transformation of diapause silkworm strains. Our results showed that HCl treatment within 3 h of oviposition was able to prevent the diapause of eggs from Japanese lineage diapause silkworm strains and was also suitable for germline transformation of the same strains. By incubating developing mother eggs from Chinese lineage diapause silkworm strains at 15°C (15°C‐IME), we were able to prevent the diapause of their daughter eggs; a similar strategy (15°C‐IMES) for the germline transformation of the same strains was that the mother eggs were incubated at 15°C, and the daughter eggs were then microinjected according to the conventional microinjection methods used for non‐diapause eggs. By combining temperature and light controls, the improved 15°C‐IMES strategy prevented diapause in daughter eggs, and also enabled the germline transformation of both Japanese and Chinese lineage diapause silkworm strains. Although each of the strategies developed here has advantages and disadvantages, we suggest that the 15°C‐IMES strategy is a good reference for the establishment of germline transformation technologies of other egg diapause insects. These new strategies for the efficient germline transformation of diapause silkworm strains are likely to improve the practical use of silkworm transgenic lines in sericulture and also highlight silkworm functional genomics research and its modeling.
ANALYSIS OF MULTILINGUAL LABELED SORTING TASKS: APPLICATION TO A CROSS‐CULTURAL STUDY IN WINE INDUSTRY
Authors: BÉCUE‐BERTAUT MONICA , LÊ SÉBASTIEN
Published: September 2011

Verbalization can be used as a complement in a sorting task (also known as categorization). Assessors are required to describe each item or group of items using their own words; thus, a “labeled” categorization is performed. In cross‐cultural studies, several panels may use different languages. We propose to extend hierarchical multiple factor analysis (HMFA) to compare panels from, simultaneously, both categorization and verbalization tasks, even when the latter is performed in several languages. We present this methodology through a study where both a Catalan and French panels performed a labeled categorization on a set of eight Catalan wines. Either Catalan or French is used by the panelists. HMFA allows for comparing the two panels not only globally but also from either the categorization or the verbalization tasks. Although results show a noticeable similarity between both configurations of wines as defined by the panels, textual data highlight interesting differences or viewpoints between Catalan and French.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Cross‐cultural studies are increasing in sensory studies, frequently including verbalization that can be performed in different languages. We propose a methodology to tackle the data issued from this kind of studies, including categorical and multilingual textual data. Our application concerns two panels, Catalan and French, who have performed a labeled sorting task, although more panels could be considered. The application shows that textual data nuance the similarities put to the fore between both configurations of wines as defined by the panels. Furthermore, this application uncovers that important concepts in the wine world are not always shared by panels issued from different backgrounds. No translation is required before the treatment.
Finite Layer Method for Flow in Layered Radial Two‐Zone Aquifer Systems
Authors: Wang Xudong , Xu Jin , Cai Zhengyin
Published: September 2011

A new finite layer method (FLM) is presented in this paper for transient flow analysis in layered radial two‐zone aquifer systems. A radial two‐zone system is an aquifer configuration in which a circular aquifer with finite radius is surrounded by a matrix possessing different permeability and storage properties. The aquifers can be pumped from fully or partially penetrating wells of infinitesimal radius. The trial function for drawdown is obtained through the use of piecewise linear correction functions in the present method. The trial function can satisfy the continuity conditions of flow and possess an appropriate continuity of C0 at the two‐zone interface. On the basis of Galerkin's method and the continuity condition of flow, the finite layer formulation is derived. The proposed method can cope with the anisotropy and layered heterogeneity in radial two‐zone aquifer systems. Several numerical examples are presented to verify the validity of the present method through comparison with the analytical solution and the numerical results based on the finite difference method, in which a test of three‐dimensional (3D) flow to a partially penetrating well in anisotropic two‐zone aquifers is included. Furthermore, an additional application in simulating the two‐zone flow in aquitard‐aquifer systems is presented to demonstrate the applicability of FLM in modeling flow in more complex aquifer systems.
Evaluation of Vertical Variations in Hydraulic Conductivity in Unconsolidated Sediments
Authors: Dietze Michael , Dietrich Peter
Published: September 2011

Detailed information on vertical variations in hydraulic conductivity (K) is essential to describe the dynamics of groundwater movement at contaminated sites or as input data used for modeling. K values in high vertical resolution should be determined because K tends to be more continuous in the horizontal than in the vertical direction. To determine K in shallow unconsolidated sediments and in the vertical direction, the recently developed direct‐push injection logger can be used. The information obtained by this method serves as a proxy for K and has to be calibrated to obtain quantitative K values of measured vertical profiles. In this study, we performed direct‐push soil sampling, sieve analyses and direct‐push slug tests to obtain K values in vertical high resolution. Using the results of direct‐push slug tests, quantitative K values obtained by the direct‐push injection logger could be determined successfully. The results of sieve analyses provided lower accordance with the logs due to the inherent limitations of the sieving method.
The effect of continuous and interval exercise on PGC‐1α and PDK4 mRNA in type I and type II fibres of human skeletal muscle
Authors: Wang L. , Sahlin K.
Published: September 2011

Aim:  Differences in fibre‐type recruitment during exercise may induce a heterogenic response in fibre‐type gene expression. We have investigated the effect of two different exercise protocols on the fibre‐type‐specific expression of master genes involved in oxidative metabolism [proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ coactivator‐1α (PGC‐1α) and Pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4)].

Methods:  Untrained subjects (n = 7) completed 90‐min cycling either at a constant intensity [continuous exercise (CE): approximately 60% of V̇O2max] or as interval exercise (IE: approximately 120/20%V̇O2max, duty cycle 12/18s). Muscle samples were taken before (pre) and 3 h after (post) exercise. Single fibres were isolated from freeze‐dried muscle and characterized as type I or type II. The cDNA from two fibres of the same type was pooled and mRNA analysed with reverse transcription quantitative real‐time PCR.

Results:  Continuous exercise and IE elicited a small increase in blood lactate (<2.5 mm) and moderate glycogen depletion (<40%) without difference between exercise modes. The mRNA of PGC‐1α and PDK4 increased 5‐ to 8‐fold in both fibre types after exercise, and the relative increase was negatively correlated with the basal level. However, the mRNA of PGC‐1α and PDK4 was not different between type I and II fibres neither pre nor post, and there was no difference in the exercise‐induced response between fibre types or exercise modes.

Conclusion:  We conclude that the mRNA of PGC‐1α and PDK4 increases markedly in both fibre types after prolonged exercise without difference between CE and IE. The similar response between fibre types may relate to that subjects were sedentary and that the metabolic stress was low.
Contribution of murine innate serum inhibitors toward interference within influenza virus immune assays
Authors: Cwach Kevin T. , Sandbulte Heather R. , Klonoski Joshua M. , Huber Victor C.
Published: September 2011

Please cite this paper as: Cwach et al. (2011) Contribution of murine innate serum inhibitors toward interference within influenza virus immune assays. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses DOI: 10.1111/j.1750‐2659.2011.00283.x.

Background  Prior to detection of an antibody response toward influenza viruses using the hemagglutination inhibition assay (HAI), sera are routinely treated to inactivate innate inhibitors using both heat inactivation (56°C) and recombinant neuraminidase [receptor‐destroying enzyme (RDE)].

Objectives  We revisited the contributions of innate serum inhibitors toward interference with influenza viruses in immune assays, using murine sera, with emphasis on the interactions with influenza A viruses of the H3N2 subtype.

Methods  We used individual serum treatments: 56°C alone, RDE alone, or RDE + 56°C, to treat sera prior to evaluation within HAI, microneutralization, and macrophage uptake assays.

Results  Our data demonstrate that inhibitors present within untreated murine sera interfere with the HAI assay in a manner that is different from that seen for the microneutralization assay. Specifically, the γ class inhibitor α2‐Macroglobulin (A2‐M) can inhibit H3N2 viruses within the HAI assay, but not in the microneutralization assay. Based on these findings, we used a macrophage uptake assay to demonstrate that these inhibitors can increase uptake by macrophages when the influenza viruses express an HA from a 1968 H3N2 virus isolate, but not a 1997 H3N2 isolate.

Conclusions  The practice of treating sera to inactivate innate inhibitors of influenza viruses prior to evaluation within immune assays has allowed us to effectively detect influenza virus‐specific antibodies for decades. However, this practice has yielded an under‐appreciation for the contribution of innate serum inhibitors toward host immune responses against these viruses, including contributions toward neutralization and macrophage uptake.
Performance of rapid influenza H1N1 diagnostic tests: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Chu Haitao , Lofgren Eric T. , Halloran M. Elizabeth , Kuan Pei F. , Hudgens Michael , Cole Stephen R.
Published: September 2011

Please cite this paper as: Chu et al. (2011) Performance of rapid influenza H1N1 diagnostic tests: a meta‐analysis. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses DOI: 10.1111/j.1750‐2659.2011.00284.x.

Background  Following the outbreaks of 2009 pandemic H1N1 infection, rapid influenza diagnostic tests have been used to detect H1N1 infection. However, no meta‐analysis has been undertaken to assess the diagnostic accuracy when this manuscript was drafted.

Methods  The literature was systematically searched to identify studies that reported the performance of rapid tests. Random effects meta‐analyses were conducted to summarize the overall performance.

Results  Seventeen studies were selected with 1879 cases and 3477 non‐cases. The overall sensitivity and specificity estimates of the rapid tests were 0·51 (95%CI: 0·41, 0·60) and 0·98 (95%CI: 0·94, 0·99). Studies reported heterogeneous sensitivity estimates, ranging from 0·11 to 0·88. If the prevalence was 30%, the overall positive and negative predictive values were 0·94 (95%CI: 0·85, 0·98) and 0·82 (95%CI: 0·79, 0·85). The overall specificities from different manufacturers were comparable, while there were some differences for the overall sensitivity estimates. BinaxNOW had a lower overall sensitivity of 0·39 (95%CI: 0·24, 0·57) compared with all the others (P‐value <0·001), whereas QuickVue had a higher overall sensitivity of 0·57 (95%CI: 0·50, 0·63) compared with all the others (P‐value = 0·005).

Conclusions  Rapid tests have high specificity but low sensitivity and thus limited usefulness.
Suicidal changes in patients with first episode psychosis: clinical predictors of increasing suicidal tendency in the early treatment phase
Authors: Madsen Trine , Nordentoft Merete
Published: September 2011

Aim: To identify predictors for developing a higher suicidal tendency during treatment of first‐episode psychosis.

Methods: In a prospective follow‐up study, we examined clinical factors collected at treatment initiation as predictors for developing a higher suicidal tendency among patients in the first year of treatment of psychosis. Patients were grouped and ranked according to their highest suicidal tendency in the year before treatment: not suicidal, suicidal thoughts, suicidal plans or suicide attempt(s). Predictors for becoming more suicidal in the first year of treatment were examined on group level in multivariate logistic regression analyses. We assessed patients' suicidal tendency and clinical factors using validated interviews and rating scales. Analysis included 386 patients.

Results: Among patients with some suicidal tendency a one‐point increase score on hallucinations significantly predicted developing a higher suicidal tendency, whereas a one‐point increase score on delusions was preventive of this. Feeling hopeless was highly associated with suicide attempt in those with earlier suicide attempt.

Conclusion: The risk of suicide attempt did not differ between patient groups with suicidal thoughts, plans or suicide attempt. In first year of treatment of psychosis, hallucinations increased the risk for becoming more suicidal, whereas delusions reduced this risk in already suicidal patients.
Prodromal psychosis screening in adolescent psychiatry clinics
Authors: Loewy Rachel L. , Therman Sebastian , Manninen Marko , Huttunen Matti O. , Cannon Tyrone D.
Published: September 2011

Background: Research has identified a syndrome conferring ultra‐high risk (UHR) for psychosis, although UHR interviews require intensive staff training, time and patient burden. Previously, we developed the Prodromal Questionnaire (PQ) to screen more efficiently for UHR syndromes.

Aims: This study examined the concurrent validity of the PQ against UHR status and preliminary predictive validity for later psychotic disorder.

Method: We assessed a consecutive patient sample of 408 adolescents who presented to psychiatry clinics in Helsinki, Finland, seeking mental health treatment, including 80 participants who completed the Structured Interview for Prodromal Syndromes (SIPS).

Results: A cut‐off score of 18 or more positive symptoms on the PQ predicted UHR diagnoses on the SIPS with 82% sensitivity and 49% specificity. Three of 14 (21%) participants with high PQ scores and SIPS UHR diagnoses developed full psychotic disorders within 1 year.

Conclusions: Using the PQ and SIPS together can be an efficient two‐stage screening process for prodromal psychosis in mental health clinics.
Review of Outcome Research on Marital and Family Therapy in Treatment for Alcoholism
Authors: O’Farrell Timothy J. , Clements Kahni
Published: September 2011

This review of controlled studies of marital and family therapy (MFT) in alcoholism treatment updates the earlier review by O’Farrell and Fals‐Stewart (2003). We conclude that, when the alcoholic is unwilling to seek help, MFT is effective in helping the family cope better and motivating alcoholics to enter treatment. Specifically, both Al‐Anon facilitation and referral and spouse coping skills training (based on new findings) help family members cope better, and CRAFT promotes treatment entry and was successfully transported to a community clinic in a new study. Once the alcoholic enters treatment, MFT, particularly behavioral couples therapy (BCT), is clearly more effective than individual treatment at increasing abstinence and improving relationship functioning. New BCT studies showed efficacy with women alcoholics and with gay and lesbian alcoholics, and BCT was successfully transported to a community clinic, a brief BCT version was tested, and BCT was adapted for family members other than spouses. Future studies should evaluate the following: MFT with couples where both members have a current alcohol problem and with minority patients, mechanisms of change, transportability of evidence‐based MFT approaches to clinical practice settings, and replication of MFT outcomes of reduced partner violence and improved child functioning.
THE MISUSE OF HYDROLOGIC UNIT MAPS FOR EXTRAPOLATION, REPORTING, AND ECOSYSTEM MANAGEMENT1
Authors: Omernik James M.
Published: September 2011

ABSTRACT: The use of watersheds to conduct research on land/water relationships has expanded recently to include both extrapolation and reporting of water resource information and ecosystem management. More often than not, hydrologic units (HUs) are used for these purposes, with the implication that hydrologic units are synonymous with watersheds. Whereas true topographic watersheds are areas within which apparent surface water drains to a particular point, generally only 45 percent of all hydrologic units, regardless of their hierarchical level, meet this definition. Because the area contributing to the downstream point in many hydrologic units extends far beyond the unit boundaries, use of the hydrologic unit framework to show regional and national patterns of water quality and other environmental resources can result in incorrect and misleading illustrations. In this paper, the implications of this misuse are demonstrated using four adjacent HUs in central Texas. A more effective way of showing regional patterns in environmental resources is by using data from true watersheds representative of different ecological regions containing particular mosaics of geographical characteristics affecting differences in ecosystems and water quality.
A Dosing Algorithm for Erythropoietin Alpha in Older Adults with Heart Failure and a Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Altincatal Arman , MacArthur Robert B. , Teruya Sergio , Helmke Stephen , Maurer Mathew S.
Published: September 2011

Aims: Erythropoietin stimulating agents (ESAs) is an active area of clinical investigation in heart failure (HF) but can cause hypertension and higher hemoglobin concentrations (Hb) that have been associated with adverse outcomes. We evaluated a dosing algorithm and potential confounders’ effect on Hb and blood pressure (BP) in a clinical trial. Methods: In an ongoing randomized, placebo controlled, single blind clinical trial of ESA (epoetin alfa) in anemic patients with HF and a preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF), Hb was measured weekly as was BP, weight and concomitant medical therapy. A repeated measure mixed model evaluated determinants of weekly changes in Hb and BP. Results: Among 45 subjects (78 ± 11 years, 67% women, EF = 57 ± 9%) with a total of 780 repeated weekly Hb measures, Hb significantly increased over time in those assigned to ESA (β= 0.933, P < 0.0001), compared to placebo. Dose (β=−0.108, P < 0.0001), patient weight (β=−0.016, P= 0.0037), diuretic use (β=−0.124, P= 0.0389), and time (β= 0.003, P= 0.0331), were all significantly associated with Hb change. Increased diuretic dose and weight change were significantly inversely associated with changes in Hb. ESA administration and dose were not significant determinants of absolute BP or changes in BP from baseline. Discussion: In addition to ESA dose and duration of therapy, factors indicative of volume status including weight and diuretic use are determinants of hemoglobin levels in HF subjects. Conclusion: The currently employed dosing algorithm, which adjusts the administration of ESA based on the absolute hemoglobin and weekly change in hemoglobin increases Hb with relatively a low weekly dose of ESA without significant effects on BP.
Suppressive Effects of Eviprostat, a Phytotherapeutic Agent, on Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Prostate Cancer Patients Treated with Brachytherapy
Authors: TANAKA Tomoaki , MORIMOTO Kazuya , NISHIKAWA Noriaki , KURATSUKURI Katsuyuki , ISHII Kentaro , YOSHIMURA Rikio , NAKATANI Tatsuya
Published: September 2011

Objectives: Eviprostat is an anti‐oxidant, anti‐inflammatory phytotherapeutic agent that is commonly used to treat lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in benign prostatic hyperplasia in Japan and Germany. Prostate cancer patients treated with brachytherapy generally have complaints of LUTS for several months postoperatively.

Methods: We investigated the protective effects of Eviprostat against the development of LUTS in 37 patients, who had received 125I prostate brachytherapy as monotherapy. These patients were divided into two groups, an Eviprostat‐treated group (n = 18) and an untreated control (n = 19), whose background had no significant difference. The group treated with Eviprostat was prophylactically medicated from 3 weeks preoperatively until 3 months postoperatively. Symptom scores and quality of life for urination were evaluated according to the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC) on preoperative day 1, and postoperative months 1, 3 and 6.

Results: Both the scores of IPSS and the levels of quality of life in EPIC were significantly worse at 1 month postoperatively compared to the pretreatment baseline, and thereafter progressively improved in both groups. Eviprostat‐treated patients showed significantly better recovery compared to Eviprostat‐untreated control at 6 months postoperatively, with respect to urinary summary score, urinary function and urinary irritation/obstruction subscales in EPIC. Moreover, the feeling of incomplete emptying in IPSS and the urinary irritation/obstruction subscale in EPIC were significantly improved at 3 months postoperatively compared to the peak impairment at 1 month in the Eviprostat‐treated group.

Conclusions: It is possible that Eviprostat has the potential to ameliorate postoperative LUTS caused by brachytherapy.
Do as I do? Prospects for parental participation 1.5 years after immersion treatment for adolescent obesity
Authors: Kirschenbaum D. S. , Pecora K. , Raphaeli T. , Germann J. N.
Published: September 2011

This study compared successful with unsuccessful participants and their mothers 1.5 years following completion of an immersion programme for the treatment of adolescent obesity. Teenagers (M age = 14.5; 69.5% female) participated in a 4‐ to 8‐week therapeutic camp; those who continued losing weight 1.5 years post‐camp were identified as ‘Losers’; those who regained weight were considered ‘Gainers’. Twenty‐six Loser campers, 23 Gainer campers and all mothers were interviewed about their current weights and lifestyle habits. Losers' and Gainers' mothers both reported losing weight significantly. Relative to Gainer mothers, however, Loser mothers reported 26% fewer high‐fat foods in the house and greater likelihood of self‐monitoring. Loser campers, relative to Gainer campers, reported self‐monitoring more consistently; using trainers more frequently; and consuming fewer calories and less fat. Gainer campers also reported a tendency to use family therapy more than Loser families. The Loser campers reported following the dictates of the programme more than the Gainer campers, as expected. One striking and unique finding, however, was that Gainer mothers seemed to follow the programme for themselves as much as Loser mothers. Apparently for some participants in immersion treatment (like the Loser campers in this study), parents who participate fully may promote sustained success; for other adolescent weight controllers (like the present Gainer campers), having ‘Do as I do’ mothers clearly does not guarantee sustained changes in lifestyle for the teenagers. A hypothesis based on these results is that additional cognitive‐behaviour therapy subsequent to immersion may be useful for this latter group.
Development of an Algorithm for Assessing the Risk to Food Safety Posed by a New Animal Disease
Authors: Parker E. M. , Jenson I. , Jordan D. , Ward M. P.
Published: September 2011

An algorithm was developed as a tool to rapidly assess the potential for a new or emerging disease of livestock to adversely affect humans via consumption or handling of meat product, so that the risks and uncertainties can be understood and appropriate risk management and communication implemented. An algorithm describing the sequence of events from occurrence of the disease in livestock, release of the causative agent from an infected animal, contamination of fresh meat and then possible adverse effects in humans following meat handling and consumption was created. A list of questions complements the algorithm to help the assessors address the issues of concern at each step of the decision pathway. The algorithm was refined and validated through consultation with a panel of experts and a review group of animal health and food safety policy advisors via five case studies of potential emerging diseases of cattle. Tasks for model validation included describing the path taken in the algorithm and stating an outcome. Twenty‐nine per cent of the 62 experts commented on the model, and one‐third of those responding also completed the tasks required for model validation. The feedback from the panel of experts and the review group was used to further develop the tool and remove redundancies and ambiguities. There was agreement in the pathways and assessments for diseases in which the causative agent was well understood (for example, bovine pneumonia due to Mycoplasma bovis). The stated pathways and assessments of other diseases (for example, bovine Johne’s disease) were not as consistent. The framework helps to promote objectivity by requiring questions to be answered sequentially and providing the opportunity to record consensus or differences of opinion. Areas for discussion and future investigation are highlighted by the points of diversion on the pathway taken by different assessors.