bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Positive solutions of nonlinear elliptic equations with critical Sobolev exponent and mixed boundary conditions
Authors: Grossi Massimo , Pacella Filomena
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

In this paper we characterise the levels of the functional (0.3) at which the Palais-Smale condition fails in the Sobolev space V(Ω) defined below. From this result we deduce an existence theorem for positive solutions to the mixed boundary problem (0.1)–(0.2) under geometrical assumptions on the domain Ω and the part of the boundary of Ω where a Neumann condition is prescribed.
Invariant manifolds for metastable patterns in ut = ε2uxx—f(u)
Authors: Carr Jack , Pego Robert
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

We consider the above equation on the interval 0 ≦ x ≦ 1 subject to Neumann boundary conditions with f(u) = F′(u) where F is a double well energy density function with equal minima. Our previous work [3] proved the existence and persistence of very slowly evolving patterns (metastable states) in solutions with two-phase initial data. Here we characterise these metastable states in terms of the global unstable manifolds of equilibria, as conjectured by Fusco and Hale [6].
A criterion for the complete continuity of the resolvent of a 2nth order differential operator with complex coefficients
Authors: Kamimura Yutaka
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

In this paper, an ordinary differential operator of 2nth order, with complex-valued coefficients, is considered. A necessary and sufficient condition for the complete continuity of the resolvent operator of the differential operator is obtained. This is an extension of earlier work by Lidskii dealing with a second-order differential operator with a complex-valued potential.
Time harmonic electromagnetic waves in an inhomogeneous medium
Authors: Colton David , Kress Rainer
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

We consider the scattering of time harmonic electromagnetic waves by an inhomogeneous medium of compact support, i.e. the permittivity ε = ε(x) and the conductivity σ = σ(x) are functions of x ∊ ℝ3. Existence, uniqueness and regularity results are established for the direct scattering problem. Then, based on existence and uniqueness results for the exterior and interior impedance boundary value problem, a method is presented for solving the inverse scattering problem.
Multiparameter definiteness conditions II
Authors: Binding Paul
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

A previous attempt to systematize various conditions from multiparameter spectral theory is extended to weaker forms of definiteness. The latter not only occur in the established literature but are also under active investigation at present. Several algebraic and geometrical formulations exist, and questions concerning their equivalence are approached in a unified fashion where possible.
Simple proofs of some results in perturbed bifurcation theory
Authors: Brown K. J. , Shivaji R.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

In this paper we discuss the existence and multiplicity of solutions to some perturbed bifurcation problems. By using sub and supersolution techniques along with an anti-maximum principle, simple proofs of some “well known” local results of perturbed bifurcation theory are obtained. The existence of global continua of solutions is proved by using degree theory arguments.
On the eigenvectors for a class of matrices arising from quasi-derivatives
Authors: Eastham M. S. P.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

Let A be a product of symmetric matrices, A = RQ, with R non-singular, and let v be an eigenvector of A. For certain R and Q, a convenient formula for the expression (R−1v)tv is obtained. This expression occurs in the diagonalization of A and, in the particular case where A is associated with the quasi-derivative formulation of higher-order differential equations, the expression occurs in the asymptotic theory of solutions of the differential equation.
On positive differential operators (deficiency indices, factorization, perturbations)
Authors: Rofe-Beketov F. S.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

A short survey is given of some recent results. The perturbations and stability of discrete spectrum and the problems of resolvent convergence of densely or non-densely defined elliptic differential operators are considered. The Courant theorem on variations of the domain is generalized. In connection with Berezanskiy's theorem on essential self-adjointness, the test for the finite velocity of propagation is extended. The Frobenius and the Krein-Heinz-Rellich factorization theorems and the Etgen Pawlowski oscillation criterion are generalized for equations of any order with operator-valued coefficients. Brusentsev's recent example of a two term fourth order differential operator with deficiency index 4 is discussed.
Periodic homogenisation of certain fully nonlinear partial differential equations
Authors: Evans Lawrence C.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

We demonstrate how a fairly simple “perturbed test function” method establishes periodic homogenisation for certain Hamilton-Jacobi and fully nonlinear elliptic partial differential equations. The idea, following Lions, Papanicolaou and Varadhan, is to introduce (possibly nonsmooth) correctors, and to modify appropriately the theory of viscosity solutions, so as to eliminate then the effects of high-frequency oscillations in the coefficients.
Moments of certain stochastic integrals occurring in mathematical physics
Authors: Smits Lieven
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

We give an expression for the n-th moment of certain Itô integrals. The integrands considered are nonanticipating functionals of the form s↦a(s, Xs), where a is a measurable time-dependent vector field in space satisfying mild regularity conditions, and Xs is standard translated Brownian motion. The expressions are similar to the Dyson-Phillips terms for magnetic Schrödinger semigroups.

We use these expressions to establish properties of the solutions of certain Cauchy problems and we relate our results to the framework of generalised Dyson expansions as set up by Johnson and Lapidus.
Multiple bifurcation in a predator–prey system with nonmonotonic predator response
Authors: Rothe Franz , Shafer Douglas S.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

A model of a predator–prey system showing group defence on the part of the prey is formulated, and reduced to a three-parameter family of quartic polynomial systems of equations. Mathematically, this system contains the Volterra–Lotka system, and yields numerous kinds of bifurcation phenomena, including a codimension-two singularity of cusp type, in a neighbourhood of which the quartic system realises every phase portrait possible under small smooth perturbation. Biologically, the nonmonotonic behaviour of the predator response function allows existence of a second singularity in the first quadrant, so that the system exhibits an enrichment paradox, and, for certain choices of parameters, coexistence of stable oscillation and a stable equilibrium.
On inequalities for powers of linear operators and for quadratic forms
Authors: Phóng Vũ Qúôc
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

LetHbe a Hilbert space in which a symmetric operatorSwith a dense domainDsis given and letShave a finite deficiency index (r, s). This paper contains a necessary and sufficient condition for validity of the following inequalities of Kolmogorov type

and a method for calculating the best possible constantsCn,m(S).

Moreover, let φ be a symmetric bilinear functional with a dense domainDφsuch thatDs⊂Dφand φ(f, g) = (Sf, g) for allf∈Ds,g∈Dφ. A necessary and sufficient condition for validity of the inequality

as well as a method for calculating the best possible constantKare obtained. Then an analogous approach is worked out in order to obtain the best possible additive inequalities of the form

The paper is concluded by establishing the best possible constants in the inequalities

whereTis an arbitrary dissipative operator. The theorems are extensions of the results of Ju. I. Ljubič, W. N. Everitt, and T. Kato.
Order arguments on the dimension of vector lattices
Authors: Annulis John T.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

The main result asserts that the base of an infinite dimensional Dedekind complete space with unit contains an infinite set of disjoint elements. From this result it can be shown that the dimension of Dedekind σ -complete spaces with unit is not countably infinite.
Analytic continuation and boundary continuity of functions of several complex variables
Authors: Lee Stout Edgar
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

This note treats some questions about analytic continuation in several variables. The first theorem in effect determines the envelops of holomorphy of certain domains in ℂn. The second main result is a continuity theorem: If a bounded holomorphic function f on a convex domain ∆ in ℂn has boundary values that are continuous on the complement (in b∆) of a set of the form int∏ (b∆∩∏) where ∏ is a real hyperplane in ℂn that misses ∆, then f is continuous on . In addition, we obtain what may be regarded as a local version of the theorem in our earlier paper concerning the one-dimensional extension property. Our methods depend on Hartogs' theorem (n ≧ 3) and directly on the BochnerMartinelli formula (n = 2).
The orders of the Fibonacci groups
Authors: Seal D. J.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

The Fibonacci groups F(r, n) have been studied by various authors, chiefly in order to determine which ones are finite. This article contains a summary of the known results about this problem, followed by some further results obtained by the author. In particular, the orders of the groups F(r, 3) for r ≡ 2 (mod 3) and F(r, 4) for r ≡ 2 (mod 4) are determined, and various other Fibonacci groups are proved infinite by methods similar to those of Chalk and Johnson.
Effects of arbitrary Prandtl number on a forced convection flow near laminar separation
Authors: Akinrelere E. A.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

Following an earlier paper by Akinrelere (1981), we consider a laminar boundary layer at low speeds in which density is sensibly constant and frictional heating is neglected. Also following the approach of Goldstein (1948) and Stewartson (1958), a singularity is established at separation for the thermal fields. The heat transfer is determined as a function of ξ = xs – x¼/l where xs is the separation point and l in a characteristic length.

The results are for arbitrary Prandtl number σ. The results of Curle (1979) that the heat transfer near separation varies as σ¼ (at least for the first four terms) are confirmed.
Prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection in The Netherlands in 1996 and 2007
Authors: HAHNÉ S. J. M. , DE MELKER H. E. , KRETZSCHMAR M. , MOLLEMA L. , VAN DER KLIS F. R. , VAN DER SANDE M. A. B. , BOOT H. J.
Published: November 2011

We aimed to assess differences in the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in The Netherlands between 1996 and 2007, and to identify risk factors for HBV infection in 2007. Representative samples of the Dutch population in 1996 and 2007 were tested for antibodies to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc), hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and HBV-DNA. In 2007, the weighted anti-HBc prevalence was 3·5% (95% CI 2·2–5·5) and the HBsAg prevalence was 0·2% (95% CI 0·1–0·4). In indigenous Dutch participants, the anti-HBc prevalence was lower in 2007 than in 1996 (P=0·06). First-generation migrants (FGMs) had a 13-fold greater risk of being HBsAg- and/or HBV-DNA-positive than indigenous Dutch participants. In indigenous Dutch participants, risk factors for anti-HBc positivity were older age and having received a blood product before 1990. In FGMs, being of Asian origin was a risk factor. In second-generation migrants, having a foreign-born partner and injecting drug use were risk factors. FGMs are the main target group for secondary HBV prevention in The Netherlands.
Chronic Pain in Older Adults: A Controlled Pilot Trial of a Brief Cognitive-Behavioural Group Treatment
Authors: Andersson Gerhard , Johansson Carina , Nordlander Annette , Asmundson Gordon J. G.
Published: November 2011

Background: Chronic pain is a common condition among older adults. While cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) has been tested in numerous studies on adults and children there are fewer studies on older persons. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of a six-session CBT group treatment for older persons with chronic pain. As a secondary aim we investigated whether treatment credibility was associated with outcome. Method: We included 21 persons (mean age = 72.0 years) who were randomly allocated to either a waitlist condition or treatment consisting of applied relaxation, with the addition of problem solving, assertiveness, communication strategies, sleep management, and relapse prevention. Results: Few statistically significant effects were found on measures of pain, mood, anxiety, and quality of life; however, a significant treatment effect with a between group effect size of d = 1.0 was observed with respect to perceived ability to function despite the discomfort of pain. Conclusion: The study provides some preliminary support for the use of group-based CBT with a focus on applied relaxation for older adults with chronic pain.
IS IGNORANCE BLISS? THE COST OF BUSINESS-CYCLE UNCERTAINTY
Authors: Brevik Frode , d'Addona Stefano
Published: November 2011

We investigate the cost of business-cycle uncertainty (lack of firm knowledge about the prevailing state of the economy) in a setup where the economy switches between booms and recessions at random intervals. Calibrating an exchange economy model to match the properties of the postwar U.S. data, we find that giving consumers additional information beyond that already contained in the endowment growth rates yields only moderate gains. In a second stage, we investigate the effect of nonperfect information processing in this setting. Surprisingly, we find that opting for slow learning might yield large utility gains, especially for consumers with a strong preference for early resolution of uncertainty.
Inter‐comparison of 11‐year solar cycle response in mesospheric ozone and temperature obtained by HALOE satellite data and HAMMONIA model
Authors: Beig G. , Fadnavis S. , Schmidt H. , Brasseur Guy P.
Published: November 2011

To investigate the effects of decadal solar variability on ozone and temperature in the MLT region, data obtained from the Halogen Occultation Experiment (HALOE) aboard Upper Atmospheric Research Satellite (UARS) during the period 1992–2004 are analyzed using a multifunctional regression model. The experimental results are compared with results from the 3‐D chemistry climate model HAMMONIA (Hamburg Model of Neutral and Ionized Components). The simulated and observed responses of temperature and ozone profiles to the 11‐year solar cycle show many similarities. The inferred annual‐mean solar signal in ozone is found to be insignificant in the lower mesosphere whereas it is of the order of 5%/100 sfu (solar flux units; units of 10.7 cm radio flux) in the upper mesosphere for both low and mid latitudes. Results indicate a hemispheric symmetry in the tropics but not at midlatitudes for the ozone response. The inferred annual mean temperature response is found to be of the order of 0.5–1 K/100 sfu. There is better agreement between the HALOE derived and model simulated responses in the tropics than at midlatitudes, both in temperature and ozone. Results obtained in the present study are also compared with the results obtained by other models.
The Influence of Selective Attention to Auditory and Visual Speech on the Integration of Audiovisual Speech Information
Authors: Buchan Julie N , Munhall Kevin G
Published: November 2011

Conflicting visual speech information can influence the perception of acoustic speech, causing an illusory percept of a sound not present in the actual acoustic speech (the McGurk effect). We examined whether participants can voluntarily selectively attend to either the auditory or visual modality by instructing participants to pay attention to the information in one modality and to ignore competing information from the other modality. We also examined how performance under these instructions was affected by weakening the influence of the visual information by manipulating the temporal offset between the audio and video channels (experiment 1), and the spatial frequency information present in the video (experiment 2). Gaze behaviour was also monitored to examine whether attentional instructions influenced the gathering of visual information. While task instructions did have an influence on the observed integration of auditory and visual speech information, participants were unable to completely ignore conflicting information, particularly information from the visual stream. Manipulating temporal offset had a more pronounced interaction with task instructions than manipulating the amount of visual information. Participants' gaze behaviour suggests that the attended modality influences the gathering of visual information in audiovisual speech perception.
Setting a new standard for kinetochores
Authors: Short Ben
Published: November 2011

Two studies reassess the number of proteins at yeast kinetochores and centromeres.
Denise Montell: Lighting the way in border cell migration
Authors: Sedwick Caitlin
Published: November 2011

Montell studies Drosophila oogenesis, focusing primarily on the collective migration of border cells.
What do we really know about dark energy?
Authors: Durrer Ruth
Published: November 2011

In this paper, we discuss what we truly know about dark energy. I shall argue that, to date, our single indication for the existence of dark energy comes from distance measurements and their relation to redshift. Supernovae, cosmic microwave background anisotropies and observations of baryon acoustic oscillations simply tell us that the observed distance to a given redshift
z
is larger than the one expected from a Friedmann–Lemaître universe with matter only and the locally measured Hubble parameter.
Redshift-space distortions
Authors: Percival Will J. , Samushia Lado , Ross Ashley J. , Shapiro Charles , Raccanelli Alvise
Published: November 2011

Comparing measurements of redshift-space distortions (RSDs) with geometrical observations of the expansion of the Universe offers tremendous potential for testing general relativity on very large scales. The basic linear theory of RSDs in the distant-observer limit has been known for 25 years and the effect has been conclusively observed in numerous galaxy surveys. The next generation of galaxy survey will observe many millions of galaxies over volumes of many tens of Gpc
3
. They will provide RSD measurements of such exquisite precision that we will have to carefully analyse and correct for many systematic deviations from this simple picture in order to fully exploit the statistical precision obtained. We review RSD theory and show how ubiquitous RSDs actually are, and then consider a number of potential systematic effects, shamelessly highlighting recent work in which we have been involved. This review ends by looking ahead to the future surveys that will make the next generation of RSD measurements.
Quality control in the initiation of eukaryotic DNA replication
Authors: Diffley John F. X.
Published: November 2011

Origins of DNA replication must be regulated to ensure that the entire genome is replicated precisely once in each cell cycle. In human cells, this requires that tens of thousands of replication origins are activated exactly once per cell cycle. Failure to do so can lead to cell death or genome rearrangements such as those associated with cancer. Systems ensuring efficient initiation of replication, while also providing a robust block to re-initiation, play a crucial role in genome stability. In this review, I will discuss some of the strategies used by cells to ensure once per cell cycle replication and provide a quantitative framework to evaluate the relative importance and efficiency of individual pathways involved in this regulation.
Evolution of networks and sequences in eukaryotic cell cycle control
Authors: Cross Frederick R. , Buchler Nicolas E. , Skotheim Jan M.
Published: November 2011

The molecular networks regulating the G1–S transition in budding yeast and mammals are strikingly similar in network structure. However, many of the individual proteins performing similar network roles appear to have unrelated amino acid sequences, suggesting either extremely rapid sequence evolution, or true polyphyly of proteins carrying out identical network roles. A yeast/mammal comparison suggests that network topology, and its associated dynamic properties, rather than regulatory proteins themselves may be the most important elements conserved through evolution. However, recent deep phylogenetic studies show that fungal and animal lineages are relatively closely related in the opisthokont branch of eukaryotes. The presence in plants of cell cycle regulators such as Rb, E2F and cyclins A and D, that appear lost in yeast, suggests cell cycle control in the last common ancestor of the eukaryotes was implemented with this set of regulatory proteins. Forward genetics in non-opisthokonts, such as plants or their green algal relatives, will provide direct information on cell cycle control in these organisms, and may elucidate the potentially more complex cell cycle control network of the last common eukaryotic ancestor.
Nutrient limitations alter cell division control and chromosome segregation through growth-related kinases and phosphatases
Authors: Yanagida Mitsuhiro , Ikai Nobuyasu , Shimanuki Mizuki , Sajiki Kenichi
Published: November 2011

In dividing fission yeastSchizosaccharomyces pombecells, the balance between Wee1 kinase and Cdc25 phosphatase which control the cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) at the G2–M transition determines the rod-shaped cell length. Under nitrogen source starvation or glucose limitation, however, cell size determination is considerably modulated, and cell size shortening occurs for wild-type cells. For several mutants of kinases or phosphatases, including CDK, target of rapamycin complex (TORC) 1 and 2, stress-responsive mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) Sty1/Spc1, MAPK kinase Wis1, calcium- and calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase-like Ssp1, and type 2A and 2A-related phosphatases inhibitor Sds23, this cell shortening does not normally occur. Intor1andssp1mutants, cell elongation is observed. Sds23 that binds to and inhibits 2A and 2A-related phosphatases is synergistic with Ssp1 in the cell size determination and survival under low glucose and nitrogen source. Tor2 (TORC1) is required for growth, whereas Tor1 (TORC2) is needed for determining division size according to different nutrient conditions. Surprisingly, in growth-diminishedtor2mutant or rapamycin-treated cells, the requirement of separase/Cut1-securin/Cut2 essential for chromosome segregation is greatly alleviated. By contrast, defects oftor1with secruin/cut2or overproduction of Cut1 are additive. While Tor1 and Tor2 are opposite in their apparent functions, both may actually coordinate cell division with growth in response to the changes in nutrients.
X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy in systems without long-range order: existence of an intermediate-field regime
Authors: Ludwig Karl
Published: November 2011

Successful X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy studies often require that signals be optimized while minimizing power density in the sample to decrease radiation damage and, at free-electron laser sources, thermal impact. This suggests exploration of scattering outside the Fraunhofer far-field diffraction limitd2/λ \llR, wheredis the incident beam size, λ is the photon wavelength andRis the sample-to-detector distance. Here it is shown that, in an intermediate regimed2/λ >R\ggdξ/λ, where ξ is the structural correlation length in the material, the ensemble averages of the scattered intensity and of the structure factor are equal. Similarly, in the regimed2/λ >R\ggdξ(τ)/λ, where ξ(τ) is a time-dependent dynamics length scale of interest, the ensemble-averaged correlation functionsg1(τ) andg2(τ) of the scattered electric field are also equal to their values in the far-field limit. This broadens the parameter space for X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy experiments, but detectors with smaller pixel size and variable focusing are required to more fully exploit the potential for such studies.
Automatic XAFS measurement system developed at BL14B2 in SPring-8
Authors: Oji Hiroshi , Taniguchi Yosuke , Hirayama Sayaka , Ofuchi Hironori , Takagaki Masashi , Honma Tetsuo
Published: November 2011

A novel XAFS measurement system has been developed in which XAFS measurements can be performed including sample-loading and detector adjustments. With this system, XAFS measurements of up to 80 samples in both transmission and fluorescence modes can be carried out. The adjustment of the optical components has also been automated. It not only saves manpower and measurement time, but also improves the accuracy and reliability of sample alignments.
Asian river fishes in the Anthropocene: threats and conservation challenges in an era of rapid environmental change
Authors: Dudgeon D.
Published: November 2011

This review compares and contrasts the environmental changes that have influenced, or will influence, fishes and fisheries in the Yangtze and Mekong Rivers. These two rivers have been chosen because they differ markedly in the type and intensity of prevailing threats. The Mekong is relatively pristine, whereas the Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze is the world's largest dam representing the apotheosis of environmental alteration of Asian rivers thus far. Moreover, it is situated at the foot of a planned cascade of at least 12 new dams on the upper Yangtze. Anthropogenic effects of dams and pollution of Yangtze fishes will be exacerbated by plans to divert water northwards along three transfer routes, in part to supplement the flow of the Yellow River. Adaptation to climate change will undoubtedly stimulate more dam construction and flow regulation, potentially causing perfect storm conditions for fishes in the Yangtze. China has already built dams along the upper course of the Mekong, and there are plans for as many as 11 mainstream dams in People's Democratic Republic (Laos) and Cambodia in the lower Mekong Basin. If built, they could have profound consequences for biodiversity, fisheries and human livelihoods, and such concerns have stalled dam construction. Potential effects of dams proposed for other rivers (such as Nujiang–Salween) are also cause for concern. Conservation or restoration measures to sustain some semblance of the rich fish biodiversity of Asian rivers can be identified, but their implementation may prove problematic in a context of increasing Anthropocene alteration of these ecosystems.
Systematic review: the treatment of noncardiac chest pain
Authors: Hershcovici T. , Achem S. R. , Jha L. K. , Fass R.
Published: November 2011

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2012; 35: 5–14

Background  Treatment of noncardiac chest pain (NCCP) remains a challenge. This is in part due to the heterogenous nature of this disorder. Several conditions are associated with NCCP including gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GERD), oesophageal dysmotility, oesophageal hypersensitivity as well as others.

Aim  To determine the currently available therapeutic modalities for NCCP.

Methods  We performed a systematic review of the literature that was published between January, 1980 and March, 2011. We identified 734 studies; 68 of them met entry criteria.

Results  Patients with GERD‐related NCCP should receive proton pump inhibitors (PPI) twice daily for at least 8 weeks. Smooth muscle relaxants are only recommended for temporary relief of NCCP with motility disorders. Botulinum toxin injection of the distal oesophagus may be effective in the treatment of NCCP and spastic oesophageal motility disorders. Studies assessing the value of tricyclic antidepressants, trazodone and selective serotonine reuptake inhibitors in NCCP are relatively small, but suggest an oesophageal analgesic effect in NCCP patients that is limited by their side effects profile. The usage of theophylline to treat patients with non‐GERD‐related NCCP should be weighed against its potential toxicity. Use of complementary medicine has been scarcely studied in NCCP. Patients with coexisting psychological morbidity or those not responding to any medical therapy should be considered for psychological intervention. Cognitive behavioural therapy and hypnotherapy may be useful in the treatment of NCCP.

Conclusions  Patients with GERD‐related noncardiac chest pain should be treated with at least double dose PPI. The primary treatment for non‐GERD‐related noncardiac chest pain, regardless if oesophageal dysmotility is present, is pain modulators.
Low prevalence of inhibitor antibodies in the Canadian haemophilia population
Authors: WEBERT K. E. , RIVARD G. E. , TEITEL J. , CARCAO M. , LILLICRAP D. , ST‐LOUIS J. , WALKER I. R.
Published: November 2011

Summary.  Annual reporting of inhibitors to factors (FVIII) and IX (FIX) to the Canadian Haemophilia Registry has suggested a lower prevalence than that published in the literature. We performed a prospective study to determine the prevalence of patients with inhibitors directed against either FVIII or FIX. Patients with inhibitors were classified as: (i) inhibitor test positive; (ii) inhibitor test negative but on immune tolerance induction (ITI); (iii) inhibitor test negative but bypass treatment recommended; or (iv) inhibitor resolved. One year later, the cohort was re‐classified. The prevalence of inhibitors on 1 May, 2007 was 3.3% for haemophilia A, 0.6% for haemophilia B and 8.9% and 2.1% for severe haemophilia A and B. One year later 17 individuals gained and 11 individuals lost inhibitor status (10 of these with ITI). This study suggests that the prevalence of inhibitors in our population is lower than that was previously published. We hypothesize that this is primarily due to the increased use of ITI, but other factors may be the unselected nature of the cohort and the restriction of the study to one date thereby conforming as close as practical to the definition of prevalence rather than incidence. The classification system used in this study was easy for clinics to apply and was important in defining the population with inhibitors.
Responses of immature permanent teeth with infected necrotic pulp tissue and apical periodontitis/abscess to revascularization procedures
Authors: Chen M. Y.‐H. , Chen K.‐L. , Chen C.‐A. , Tayebaty F. , Rosenberg P. A. , Lin L. M.
Published: November 2011

Chen MY‐H, Chen K‐L, Chen C‐A, Tayebaty F, Rosenberg PA, Lin LM. Responses of immature permanent teeth with infected necrotic pulp tissue and apical periodontitis/abscess to revascularization procedures. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 294–305, 2012.

Aim  To report several types of response of immature permanent teeth with infected necrotic pulp tissue and either apical periodontitis or abscess to revascularization procedures.

Methodology  Twenty immature permanent teeth with infected necrotic pulp tissue and either apical periodontitis or abscesses from 20 patients were included. The teeth were isolated with rubber dam, and pulp chambers was accessed through the crowns. The canals were gently irrigated with 5.25% sodium hypochlorite with minimal mechanical debridement. Calcium hydroxide was used as an inter‐appointment intracanal medicament and placed into the coronal half of the canal space. After resolution of clinical signs and symptoms, bleeding was induced into the canal space from the periapical tissues using K‐files. The coronal canal space was sealed with a mixture of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and saline solution. The access cavity was filled with composite resin. These immature permanent teeth with infected necrotic pulp tissue and apical periodontitis/abscesses were followed up from 6 to 26 months.

Results  Five types of responses of these immature permanent teeth with infected necrotic pulp tissue and apical periodontitis/abscess to revascularization procedures were observed: type 1, increased thickening of the canal walls and continued root maturation; type 2, no significant continuation of root development with the root apex becoming blunt and closed; type 3, continued root development with the apical foramen remaining open; type 4, severe calcification (obliteration) of the canal space; type 5, a hard tissue barrier formed in the canal between the coronal MTA plug and the root apex.

Conclusions  Based on this case series, the outcome of continued root development was not as predictable as increased thickening of the canal walls in human immature permanent teeth with infected necrotic pulp tissue and apical periodontitis/abscess after revascularization procedures. Continued root development of revascularized immature permanent necrotic teeth depends on whether the Hertwig’s epithelial root sheath survives in case of apical periodontitis/abscess. Severe pulp canal calcification (obliteration) by hard tissue formation might be a complication of internal replacement resorption or union between the intracanal hard tissue and the apical bone (ankylosis) in revascularized immature permanent necrotic teeth.
Exploring leadership in community nursing teams
Authors: Cameron Shona , Harbison Jean , Lambert Vicky , Dickson Caroline
Published: November 2011

cameron s., harbison j., lambert v. & dickson c. (2012) Exploring leadership in community nursing teams. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(7), 1469–1481.

Aims.  This article is a report on a study investigating how leadership is perceived in community nursing teams and how these perceptions are translated into working practices of team leaders.

Background.  The consensus in community nursing literature is that leadership is important, and especially so in a time of change. However, little empirical evidence exists on how leadership works in practice.

Method.  The study adopted an exploratory descriptive design, utilising individual semi‐structured interviews and focus groups in four case‐studies, with a total of 54 participants. Two case‐studies focussed on district nursing teams and two involved public health nursing teams, located in two geographical areas. Participants debated their understanding of the concept of leadership, its associated practices and behaviours in teams, if they saw themselves as leaders, and what preparation was required. The study was undertaken in 2009. Framework analysis techniques were employed to analyse the data.

Findings.  A ‘quasi‐family’ model of leadership emerged, with significant emphasis on the importance of personal relationships and support. Nursing grade had a greater impact on perceptions of leadership than geographical context or professional and clinical focus.

Conclusion.  No clear fit with any existing theoretical framework was identified. However, nurses in the highest grade banding, in particular, demonstrated practices associated with transformational leadership. Nurses expressed the very clear need to be acknowledged, respected and valued, and that those who provided this support were regarded as good leaders.
The estimation of body height from ulna length in healthy adults from different ethnic groups
Authors: Madden A. M. , Tsikoura T. , Stott D. J.
Published: November 2011

How to cite this article
 Madden A.M., Tsikoura T. & Stott D.J. (2012) The estimation of body height from ulna length in healthy adults from different ethnic groups. J Hum Nutr Diet.25, 121–128

Background:  Assessments of nutritional status frequently incorporate a measure of height to evaluate a person’s relative thinness or fatness. Because height is often difficult to quantify, it may be predicted from alternative anthropometric measurements, including ulna length. Little information is available about the accuracy of these predictions in an ethnically diverse population. The present study aimed to evaluate published equations for predicting height from ulna length in adults from different ethnic groups.

Methods:  Ulna length and standing height were measured in a gender‐stratified sample of 60 Asian, 69 Black and 65 White healthy volunteers, aged 21–65 years. Height was predicted from ulna length using the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) equations and compared against the measured values. Linear regression analysis was used to develop equations to estimate height from ulna length and to explore the relationship between height and ulna length in subgroups.

Results:  The mean (SD) age for Asian, Black and White in men was 31.7 (11.0), 32.0 (10.3) and 38.6 (12.5) years and in women was 26.2 (5.4), 32.6 (8.9) and 35.7 (11.7); the mean (SD) height in men was 170.9 (5.2), 178.1 (7.3) and 176.3 (7.7) cm and in women was 157.7 (4.7), 164.0 (5.9) and 163.7 (6.2) cm. Ulna length and measured height were significantly correlated among all subgroups, except Asian women (r = 0.11, P = 0.57). The mean (SD) difference between predicted and measured height showed significant overestimates for Asian and Black men [4.0 (4.8) and 6.7 (5.3) cm] and Asian and Black women [6.4 (4.9) and 4.4 (4.9) cm] but not for White men and women.

Conclusions:  The MUST equations for predicting height from ulna length in healthy adults should be used with some caution among ethnically diverse populations, particularly in Asian women.
Risk of myocardial infarction associated with chronic hepatitis C virus infection: a population‐based cohort study*
Authors: Forde K. A. , Haynes K. , Troxel A. B. , Trooskin S. , Osterman M. T. , Kimmel S. E. , Lewis J. D. , Re V. Lo
Published: November 2011

Summary.  Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with systemic inflammation and metabolic complications that might predispose patients to atherosclerosis. However, it remains unclear if HCV infection increases the risk of acute myocardial infarction (MI). To determine whether HCV infection is an independent risk factor for acute MI among adults followed in general practices in the United Kingdom (UK), a retrospective cohort study was conducted in The Health Improvement Network, from 1996 through 2008. Patients ≥18 years of age with at least 6 months of follow‐up and without a prior history of MI were eligible for study inclusion. HCV‐infected individuals, identified with previously validated HCV diagnostic codes (n = 4809), were matched on age, sex and practice with up to 15 randomly selected patients without HCV (n = 71 668). Rates of incident MI among patients with and without a diagnosis of HCV infection were calculated. Adjusted hazard ratios were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression, controlling for established cardiovascular risk factors. During a median follow‐up of 3.2 years, there was no difference in the incidence rates of MI between HCV‐infected and ‐uninfected patients (1.02 vs 0.92 events per 1000 person‐years; P = 0.7). HCV infection was not associated with an increased risk of incident MI (adjusted HR, 1.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.67–1.83). Sensitivity analyses including the exploration of a composite outcome of acute MI and coronary interventions yielded similar results (adjusted HR, 1.16; 95% CI, 0.77–1.74). In conclusion, HCV infection was not associated with an increased risk of incident MI.
Female metasternal gland odours mediate male aggregation in Rhodnius prolixus, a triatomid bug
Authors: PONTES G. B. , LORENZO M. G.
Published: November 2011

We investigated whether metasternal gland (MG) products mediate male aggregation during mating in Rhodnius prolixus (Heteroptera: Reduviidae) Stål, 1859, through selective occlusion of female MGs. Pairs of insects presenting intact MGs mated and other males aggregated around them confirming conclusions from previous studies. However, when female MGs were occluded, males did not aggregate. Conversely, the occlusion of male MGs did not affect aggregation of males. The present experiments demonstrated that the products emitted by the MGs of a mating R. prolixus female induce other males to aggregate around the mating pair. Aggregation behaviour of males probably results from the eventual release of volatiles from the female's MGs. We reinforce the hypothesis suggesting that the compounds produced by the MGs of R. prolixus act as sexual communication signals for this species.
Evaluation of DLA promoters in Doberman hepatitis
Authors: Dyggve H. , Meri S. , Spillmann T. , Lohi H. , Kennedy L. J. , Speeti M.
Published: November 2011

Doberman hepatitis (DH) is associated with homozygous DLA‐DRB1*00601/DQA1*00401/DQB1*01303 indicating a role for the immune system in the development of the disease. The dog leucocyte antigen (DLA) class II expression is controlled at the transcriptional level with proximal promoters. Differential expression of DLA class II molecules of antigen‐presenting cells is reported to affect susceptibility to or protection from different immune‐mediated diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate, whether the variation in promoter areas of homozygous DLA‐DRB1*00601/DQA1*00401/DQB1*01303 Dobermans could explain why some dogs become afflicted with DH and others do not. Our findings suggest that promoter variants are not associated as risk modifiers in homozygous DLA‐DRB1*00601/DQA1*00401/DQB1*01303 Dobermans, but additional factors are needed. Nevertheless, our study indicates that the whole DLA block is associated to the disease.
Assessing executive function in relation to fitness to drive: A review of tools and their ability to predict safe driving
Authors: Asimakopulos Julia , Boychuck Zachary , Sondergaard Diana , Poulin Valérie , Ménard Ingrid , Korner‐Bitensky Nicol
Published: November 2011

Background/aim:  The assessment of executive functions is an integral component in determining fitness to drive. A structured review was conducted to identify assessment tools used to measure executive function in relation to driving and to describe these tools according to: (i) specific executive function components assessed; (ii) the tool’s validity in predicting safe driving; and (iii) clinical utility.

Methods:  Sixty‐nine articles were reviewed, identifying 53 executive function tools/assessments used in driving research. Each tool was critically appraised and the findings were compiled in a Driving Executive Function Tool Guide.

Results:  Among the 53 tools, there were 27 general assessments of cognition, 19 driving‐specific and seven activities of daily living/instrumental activities of daily living assessments. No single tool measured all executive function components: working memory was the most common (n = 20/53). Several tools demonstrated strong predictive validity and clinical utility. For example, tools, such as the Trail Making Test and the Maze Task, have the shortest administration time (i.e. often less than 10 minutes) and the most easily accessible method of administration (i.e. pen and paper or verbal). Driving‐specific tools range from short questionnaires, such as the 10‐minute Manchester Driving Behaviour Questionnaire, to more complex tools requiring about 45 minutes to administer.

Conclusions and significance of the study:  The appropriateness of a tool depends on the individual being assessed and on practical constraints of the clinical context. The Driving Executive Function Tool Guide provides useful information that should facilitate decision‐making and selection of appropriate executive function tools in relation to driving.
Cerebellar haemorrhage in the extremely preterm infant
Authors: Hou David , Shetty Umesh , Phillips Mark , Gray Peter H
Published: November 2011

Aim:  The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence, risk factors and developmental outcomes of cerebellar haemorrhage in the extremely preterm infant.

Methods:  Over a 4‐year period from January 2004, all patients with cerebellar haemorrhage born at 24–27 weeks gestation or with a birthweight < 1000 g were identified from database review. All patients had cranial ultrasound scans including views from the mastoid fontanelle. To verify the incidence, a review of all reports over the 4‐year period and a review of all cranial imaging over a 2‐year period were carried out.

Results:  From the data analysed on 339 neonates, five cases of cerebellar haemorrhage were identified, four on ultrasound scan (1.2%) and one on magnetic resonance imaging (1.5% total). Two cases were associated with grade III peri‐intraventricular haemorrhage. The cases had diverse maternal, antenatal and post‐natal risk factors. The two with associated peri‐intraventricular haemorrhage have developmental delay. The cases with isolated cerebellar haemorrhage had good neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Conclusions:  A low incidence of cerebellar haemorrhage identified from the mastoid fontanelle was demonstrated. The neurodevelopmental outcome was better than that described in previous reports.
Neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced bladder carcinoma: Development of novel bladder preservation approach, Osaka Medical College regimen
Authors: Azuma Haruhito , Inamoto Teruo , Takahara Kiyoshi , Ibuki Naokazu , Nomi Hayahito , Yamamoto Kazuhiro , Narumi Yoshihumi , Ubai Takanobu
Published: November 2011

Cisplatin‐based chemotherapy has been widely used in a neoadjuvant as well as adjuvant setting. Furthermore, trimodal approaches including complete transurethral resection of the bladder tumor followed by combined chemotherapy and radiation have generally been performed as bladder preservation therapy. However, none of the protocols have achieved a 5‐year survival rate of more than 70%. Additionally, the toxicity of chemotherapy and/or a decreased quality of life due to urinary diversion cannot be ignored, as most patients with bladder cancer are elderly. We therefore newly developed the novel trimodal approach of “combined therapy using balloon‐occluded arterial infusion of anticancer agent and hemodialysis with concurrent radiation, which delivers an extremely high concentration of anticancer agent to the site of a tumor without systemic adverse effects (“Osaka Medical College regimen” referred to as the OMC regimen). We initially applied the OMC regimen as neoadjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced bladder cancer. However, since more than 85% of patients with histologically‐proven urothelial cancer achieved complete response with no evidence of recurrence after a mean follow‐up of 170 (range 21–814) weeks, we have been applying the OMC‐regimen as a new approach for bladder sparing therapy. We summarize the advantage and/or disadvantage of chemotherapy in neoadjuvant as well as adjuvant settings, and show the details of our newly developed bladder sparing approach OMC regimen in this review.
Stimulus‐induced dissociation of neuronal firing rates and local field potential gamma power and its relationship to the blood oxygen level‐dependent signal in macaque primary visual cortex
Authors: Bartolo M. J. , Gieselmann M. A. , Vuksanovic V. , Hunter D. , Sun L. , Chen X. , Delicato L. S. , Thiele A.
Published: November 2011

The functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) blood oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) signal is regularly used to assign neuronal activity to cognitive function. Recent analyses have shown that the local field potential (LFP) gamma power is a better predictor of the fMRI BOLD signal than spiking activity. However, LFP gamma power and spiking activity are usually correlated, clouding the analysis of the neural basis of the BOLD signal. We show that changes in LFP gamma power and spiking activity in the primary visual cortex (V1) of the awake primate can be dissociated by using grating and plaid pattern stimuli, which differentially engage surround suppression and cross‐orientation inhibition/facilitation within and between cortical columns. Grating presentation yielded substantial V1 LFP gamma frequency oscillations and significant multi‐unit activity. Plaid pattern presentation significantly reduced the LFP gamma power while increasing population multi‐unit activity. The fMRI BOLD activity followed the LFP gamma power changes, not the multi‐unit activity. Inference of neuronal activity from the fMRI BOLD signal thus requires detailed a priori knowledge of how different stimuli or tasks activate the cortical network.