bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Default perception of high-speed motion
Authors: Wexler Mark , Glennerster Andrew , Cavanagh Patrick , Ito Hiroyuki , Seno Takeharu
Published: April 2013

When human observers are exposed to even slight motion signals followed by brief visual transients—stimuli containing no detectable coherent motion signals—they perceive large and salient illusory jumps. This visually striking effect, which we call “high phi,” challenges well-entrenched assumptions about the perception of motion, namely the minimal-motion principle and the breakdown of coherent motion perception with steps above an upper limit called
d
max
. Our experiments with transients, such as texture randomization or contrast reversal, show that the magnitude of the jump depends on spatial frequency and transient duration—but not on the speed of the inducing motion signals—and the direction of the jump depends on the duration of the inducer. Jump magnitude is robust across jump directions and different types of transient. In addition, when a texture is actually displaced by a large step beyond the upper step size limit of
d
max
, a breakdown of coherent motion perception is expected; however, in the presence of an inducer, observers again perceive coherent displacements at or just above
d
max
. In summary, across a large variety of stimuli, we find that when incoherent motion noise is preceded by a small bias, instead of perceiving little or no motion—as suggested by the minimal-motion principle—observers perceive jumps whose amplitude closely follows their own
d
max
limits.
mChIP-KAT-MS, a method to map protein interactions and acetylation sites for lysine acetyltransferases
Authors: Mitchell Leslie , Huard Sylvain , Cotrut Michael , Pourhanifeh-Lemeri Roghayeh , Steunou Anne-Lise , Hamza Akil , Lambert Jean-Philippe , Zhou Hu , Ning Zhibin , Basu Amrita , Côté Jacques , Figeys Daniel A. , Baetz Kristin
Published: April 2013

Significance

Recent proteomic studies have revealed that lysine acetylation is a global and ubiquitous posttranslational modification. However, in the vast majority of cases the lysine acetyltransferases (KATs) responsible for individual modifications remain unknown. Here we present a unique methodology that connects KATs to their substrates. To validate the methodology, we use the yeast KAT nucleosome acetyltransferase of histone H4 (NuA4) and identify both protein interactions and acetylation targets. Importantly, this methodology can be applied to any KAT and should aid in the linking of KATs to their cellular targets.
Insights into H
2
formation in space from ab initio molecular dynamics
Authors: Casolo Simone , Tantardini Gian Franco , Martinazzo Rocco
Published: April 2013

Hydrogen formation is a key process for the physics and the chemistry of interstellar clouds. Molecular hydrogen is believed to form on the carbonaceous surface of dust grains, and several mechanisms have been invoked to explain its abundance in different regions of space, from cold interstellar clouds to warm photon-dominated regions. Here, we investigate direct (Eley–Rideal) recombination including lattice dynamics, surface corrugation, and competing H-dimers formation by means of ab initio molecular dynamics. We find that Eley–Rideal reaction dominates at energies relevant for the interstellar medium and alone may explain observations if the possibility of facile sticking at special sites (edges, point defects, etc.) on the surface of the dust grains is taken into account.
Higher-order interactions bridge the nitric oxide receptor and catalytic domains of soluble guanylate cyclase
Authors: Underbakke Eric S. , Iavarone Anthony T. , Marletta Michael A.
Published: April 2013

Nitric oxide (NO) signaling pathways mediate diverse physiological functions, including vasodilation and neurotransmission. Soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC), the primary NO receptor, triggers downstream signaling cascades by producing the second messenger cGMP. NO binds the sGC heme cofactor to stimulate cyclase activity, yet the molecular mechanisms of cyclase activation remain obscure. Although structural models of the individual sGC domains are available, the structure of the full sGC heterodimer is unknown. Understanding the higher-order domain architecture of sGC is a prerequisite to elucidating the mechanisms of NO activation. We used protein footprinting to map interdomain interaction surfaces of the sGC signaling domains. Hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry revealed direct interactions between the Per/Arnt/Sim domain and the heme-associated signaling helix of the heme-NO/O
2
binding (H-NOX) domain. Furthermore, interfaces between the H-NOX and catalytic domains were mapped using domain truncations and full-length sGC. The H-NOX domain buries surfaces of the α1 catalytic domain proximal to the cyclase active site, suggesting a signaling mechanism involving NO-induced derepression of catalytic activity. Together, our data reveal interdomain interactions responsible for communicating NO occupancy from H-NOX heme to the catalytic domain active site.
Behavioral Responses of Representative Freshwater Fish Species to Electromagnetic Fields
Authors: Bevelhimer Mark S. , Cada Glenn F. , Fortner Allison M. , Schweizer Peter E. , Riemer Kristina
Published: April 2013

Hydrokinetic energy is proposed as an environmentally preferred means of generating electricity from river and tidal currents. To resolve environmental concerns, it is important to investigate potential effects on aquatic organisms from the electromagnetic fields (EMFs) that are created by underwater generators and transmission cables. We evaluated the behavioral responses of some representative freshwater fishes to static and variable EMFs in a series of laboratory experiments. Fish were exposed for 46 h to a static (DC) EMF with a permanent bar magnet or to a variable (AC) EMF with an electromagnet. Fish locations were recorded with a digital imaging system, and changes in activity level and distribution relative to the magnet position were quantified at 5‐min intervals. Experiments with Fathead Minnow Pimephales promelas, Redear Sunfish Lepomis microlophus, Striped Bass Morone saxatilis, Lake Sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens, and Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus produced mixed results. Except for Fathead Minnow, there was no effect on fish activity level. Only Redear Sunfish and Channel Catfish exhibited a change in distribution relative to the position of the magnet, with both species showing an apparent attraction to the EMF source. In a separate experiment, rapid behavioral responses of Paddlefish Polyodon spathula and Lake Sturgeon to the onset of an AC field were recorded with high‐speed video. Paddlefish did not react to a variable, 60‐Hz magnetic field (i.e., like that emitted by an AC generator or cable), but Lake Sturgeon consistently responded with a variety of altered swimming behaviors. These results will be useful for positioning cables or generators to minimize interactions with EMF‐sensitive species.
Hans Walter Kosterlitz. 27 April 1903 — 26 October 1996
Authors: North R. Alan , Hughes John
Published: April 2013

Hans Walter Kosterlitz will be remembered as the winner of an international race to identify the first endogenous opioid, enkephalin. He came to the UK from Berlin in 1934, one of the many scientific émigrés of that period who later so enriched biochemistry, physiology and pharmacology. His entire career was spent at the University of Aberdeen, where he developed a reputation first in carbohydrate metabolism and later in the pharmacology of opiates. His strong experimental skills, and particularly the use of bioassays on tissues from laboratory animals, allowed him to predict the effectiveness and abuse potential of opiate drugs. Most notably, this led to the isolation of the peptide hormone enkephalin, the first of a group of such peptides now often known as endorphins. This work was done in his seventies, after his official retirement, with an energy and enthusiasm that could leave younger colleagues physically tired but intellectually stimulated.
Phylogenetic and functional diversity in large carnivore assemblages
Authors: Dalerum F.
Published: April 2013

Large terrestrial carnivores are important ecological components and prominent flagship species, but are often extinction prone owing to a combination of biological traits and high levels of human persecution. This study combines phylogenetic and functional diversity evaluations of global and continental large carnivore assemblages to provide a framework for conservation prioritization both between and within assemblages. Species-rich assemblages of large carnivores simultaneously had high phylogenetic and functional diversity, but species contributions to phylogenetic and functional diversity components were not positively correlated. The results further provide ecological justification for the largest carnivore species as a focus for conservation action, and suggests that range contraction is a likely cause of diminishing carnivore ecosystem function. This study highlights that preserving species-rich carnivore assemblages will capture both high phylogenetic and functional diversity, but that prioritizing species within assemblages will involve trade-offs between optimizing contemporary ecosystem function versus the evolutionary potential for future ecosystem performance.
The evolution of sexual dimorphism in New Zealand giant moa (Dinornis) and other ratites
Authors: Olson Valérie A. , Turvey Samuel T.
Published: April 2013

The extinct giant moaDinornisis one of the most remarkable known examples of reversed sexual size dimorphism (RSD), with males weighing 34–85 kg, but females weighing up to 240 kg. However, there has been little consideration of the evolutionary mechanism that produced this level of dimorphism, and most living palaeognaths also exhibit varying levels of RSD. Using male and female body mass data for extant ratites and tinamous and four extinct moa genera, and tests of phylogenetic dependence (λ) of body size evolution among these species, we investigated whetherDinorniswas truly unusual with respect to RSD relative to other palaeognaths, which sex was under greater pressure to change in size over evolutionary time, and which candidate hypotheses explaining the presence and variability of RSD in the genus are most plausible. We demonstrate that the extreme level of RSD exhibited byDinornisrepresents a straightforward consequence of positive allometric scaling of body size. However,Dinornisfemales have undergone more evolutionary change than males, and larger females from high-productivity environments are associated with greater differentiation, possibly driven by intraspecific competition and female-biased selection for increased offspring investment.
ArabidopsisSec1/Munc18 Protein SEC11 Is a Competitive and Dynamic Modulator of SNARE Binding and SYP121-Dependent Vesicle Traffic
Authors: Karnik Rucha , Grefen Christopher , Bayne Robert , Honsbein Annegret , Köhler Tim , Kioumourtzoglou Dimitrios , Williams Mary , Bryant Nia J. , Blatt Michael R.
Published: April 2013

The Arabidopsis thaliana Qa-SNARE SYP121 (=SYR1/PEN1) drives vesicle traffic at the plasma membrane of cells throughout the vegetative plant. It facilitates responses to drought, to the water stress hormone abscisic acid, and to pathogen attack, and it is essential for recovery from so-called programmed stomatal closure. How SYP121-mediated traffic is regulated is largely unknown, although it is thought to depend on formation of a fusion-competent SNARE core complex with the cognate partners VAMP721 and SNAP33. Like SYP121, the Arabidopsis Sec1/Munc18 protein SEC11 (=KEULE) is expressed throughout the vegetative plant. We find that SEC11 binds directly with SYP121 both in vitro and in vivo to affect secretory traffic. Binding occurs through two distinct modes, one requiring only SEC11 and SYP121 and the second dependent on assembly of a complex with VAMP721 and SNAP33. SEC11 competes dynamically for SYP121 binding with SNAP33 and VAMP721, and this competition is predicated by SEC11 association with the N terminus of SYP121. These and additional data are consistent with a model in which SYP121-mediated vesicle fusion is regulated by an unusual “handshaking” mechanism of concerted SEC11 debinding and rebinding. They also implicate one or more factors that alter or disrupt SEC11 association with the SYP121 N terminus as an early step initiating SNARE complex formation.
Evolution of Homospermidine Synthase in the Convolvulaceae: A Story of Gene Duplication, Gene Loss, and Periods of Various Selection Pressures
Authors: Kaltenegger Elisabeth , Eich Eckart , Ober Dietrich
Published: April 2013

Homospermidine synthase (HSS), the first pathway-specific enzyme of pyrrolizidine alkaloid biosynthesis, is known to have its origin in the duplication of a gene encoding deoxyhypusine synthase. To study the processes that followed this gene duplication event and gave rise to HSS, we identified sequences encoding HSS and deoxyhypusine synthase from various species of the Convolvulaceae. We show that HSS evolved only once in this lineage. This duplication event was followed by several losses of a functional gene copy attributable to gene loss or pseudogenization. Statistical analyses of sequence data suggest that, in those lineages in which the gene copy was successfully recruited as HSS, the gene duplication event was followed by phases of various selection pressures, including purifying selection, relaxed functional constraints, and possibly positive Darwinian selection. Site-specific mutagenesis experiments have confirmed that the substitution of sites predicted to be under positive Darwinian selection is sufficient to convert a deoxyhypusine synthase into a HSS. In addition, analyses of transcript levels have shown that HSS and deoxyhypusine synthase have also diverged with respect to their regulation. The impact of protein–protein interaction on the evolution of HSS is discussed with respect to current models of enzyme evolution.
The development and evaluation of a questionnaire to assess the impact of vulval intraepithelial neoplasia: a questionnaire study
Authors: Lockhart J , Gray NM , Cruickshank ME
Published: April 2013

Objective

To develop and evaluate a questionnaire to assess the burden of vulval intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) in women.

Design

A questionnaire development study.

Setting

Vulval Disorders Clinic serving a regional population.

Sample

Fifty‐eight women with a histological diagnosis of VIN registered with the Vulval Disorders Clinic.

Methods

A 37‐item questionnaire was developed through a comprehensive literature review, consultation with specialist clinicians and pretesting to assess the burden experienced by women. The questionnaire was assessed for validity and reliability against existing questionnaires used in related disease areas.

Main outcome measures

Spearman correlations were calculated between items in the VIN questionnaire with the scores of the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Sabbatsberg Sexual Self‐Rating Scale (SSRS) and the Process Outcome Specific Measure (POSM) to assess the new questionnaire's validity. Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach's alpha. Test–retest reliability was calculated using quadratic weighted kappa.

Results

The VIN questionnaire had a high degree of internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha, 0.89). Test–retest reliability was assessed, with most questions showing a quadratic weighted kappa value of 0.5 or above. Most questions showed a stronger correlation with the corrected total VIN score than with HADS anxiety and depression subscales and the SSRS, indicating discriminant validity. Most questions correlated significantly with the DLQI and POSM scores, indicating convergent validity.

Conclusions

Initial assessment of the VIN questionnaire demonstrated that it is a valid and reliable measure of the burden of disease for women. The questionnaire could be used to compare new and existing treatments for VIN or to assess or monitor the impact of care.
Anorectal malformations and pregnancy‐related disorders: a registry‐based case–control study in 17 European regions
Authors: Wijers CHW , van Rooij IALM , Bakker MK , Marcelis CLM , Addor MC , Barisic I , Béres J , Bianca S , Bianchi F , Calzolari E , Greenlees R , Lelong N , Latos‐Bielenska A , Dias CM , McDonnell R , Mullaney C , Nelen V , O'Mahony M , Queisser‐Luft A , Rankin J , Zymak‐Zakutnia N , de Blaauw I , Roeleveld N , de Walle HEK
Published: April 2013

Objective

To identify pregnancy‐related risk factors for different manifestations of congenital anorectal malformations (ARMs).

Design

A population‐based case–control study.

Setting

Seventeen EUROCAT (European Surveillance of Congenital Anomalies) registries, 1980–2008.

Population

The study population consisted of 1417 cases with ARM, including 648 cases of isolated ARM, 601 cases of ARM with additional congenital anomalies, and 168 cases of ARM‐VACTERL (vertebral, anal, cardiac, tracheo‐esophageal, renal, and limb defects), along with 13 371 controls with recognised syndromes or chromosomal abnormalities.

Methods

Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for potential risk factors for ARM, such as fertility treatment, multiple pregnancy, primiparity, maternal illnesses during pregnancy, and pregnancy‐related complications.

Main outcome measures

Adjusted ORs for pregnancy‐related risk factors for ARM.

Results

The ARM cases were more likely to be firstborn than the controls (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.4–1.8). Fertility treatment and being one of twins or triplets seemed to increase the risk of ARM in cases with additional congenital anomalies or VACTERL (ORs ranging from 1.6 to 2.5). Maternal fever during pregnancy and pre‐eclampsia were only associated with ARM when additional congenital anomalies were present (OR 3.9, 95% CI 1.3–11.6; OR 3.4, 95% CI 1.6–7.1, respectively), whereas maternal epilepsy during pregnancy resulted in a five‐fold elevated risk of all manifestations of ARM (OR 5.1, 95% CI 1.7–15.6).

Conclusions

This large European study identified maternal epilepsy, fertility treatment, multiple pregnancy, primiparity, pre‐eclampsia, and maternal fever during pregnancy as potential risk factors primarily for complex manifestations of ARM with additional congenital anomalies and VACTERL.
Unsafe abortion after legalisation in Nepal: a cross‐sectional study of women presenting to hospitals
Authors: Rocca CH , Puri M , Dulal B , Bajracharya L , Harper CC , Blum M , Henderson JT
Published: April 2013

Objective

To investigate abortion practices of Nepali women requiring postabortion care.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Four tertiary‐care hospitals in urban and rural Nepal.

Sample

A total of 527 women presenting with complications from induced abortion in 2010.

Methods

Women completed questionnaires on their awareness of the legal status of abortion and their abortion‐seeking experiences. The method of induction and whether the abortion was obtained from an uncertified source was documented. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify associated factors.

Main outcome measures

Induction method; uncertified abortion source.

Results

In all, 234 (44%) women were aware that abortion was legal in Nepal. Medically induced abortion was used by 359 (68%) women and, of these, 343 (89%) took unsafe, ineffective or unknown substances. Compared with women undergoing surgical abortion, women who had medical abortion were more likely to have obtained information from pharmacists (161/359, 45% versus 11/168, 7%, adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 8.1, 95% confidence interval 4.1–16.0) and to have informed no one about the abortion (28/359, 8% versus 3/168, 2%, aOR 5.5, 95% CI 1.1–26.9). Overall, 291 (81%) medical abortions and 50 (30%) surgical abortions were obtained from uncertified sources; these women were less likely to know that abortion was legal (122/341, 36% versus 112/186, 60%, aOR 0.4, 95% CI 0.2–0.7) and more likely to choose a method because it was available nearby (209/341, 61% versus 62/186, 33%, aOR 2.5, 95% CI 1.5–4.3), compared with women accessing certified sources.

Conclusions

Among women presenting to hospitals in Nepal with complications following induced abortion of pregnancy, the majority had undergone medically induced abortions using unknown substances acquired from uncertified sources. Women using medications and those accessing uncertified providers were less aware that abortion is now legal in Nepal. These findings highlight the need for continued improvements in the provision and awareness of abortion services in Nepal.
Financial Analysts and the False Consensus Effect
Authors: WILLIAMS JARED
Published: April 2013

Social psychologists have documented a tendency for people to overestimate their similarity to others. I investigate whether financial analysts' forecast errors are consistent with this bias. I model the bias by assuming analysts overestimate the correlation of the private signals they receive about a firm's future earnings. My model predicts a positive relationship between (i) the likelihood of an analyst's revised forecast being too close to his earlier forecast and (ii) the number of analysts issuing forecasts during the time interval between his two forecasts. I empirically confirm this prediction and consider several alternative explanations.
Barriers and guidelines for public policies on climate change adaptation: A missed opportunity of scientific knowledge‐brokerage
Authors: Clar Christoph , Prutsch Andrea , Steurer Reinhard
Published: April 2013

Progress in formulating and implementing effective adaptation policies is often hampered by a wide variety of barriers that are well documented in the literature. Among the barriers are lack of awareness, certainty, resources and political commitment. Since these and other barriers can be overcome (e.g., by raising awareness, closing knowledge gaps, and increasing resources), numerous decision‐support frameworks (mainly written guidelines) have been developed for this purpose. The present paper takes stock of both the barriers in adaptation policymaking, as documented in the literature, and the guidelines that aim to facilitate public policies on climate change adaptation. It then compares to what degree selected adaptation guidelines serve as knowledge‐brokerage tools that provide guidance on how to overcome the barriers addressed in the scientific literature. The comparison shows that adaptation guidelines address barriers of adaptation policymaking neither comprehensively nor systematically. Since most adaptation guidelines focus on (subjective) experiences with good practices than on empirical research findings, we conclude that they represent a missed opportunity of scientific knowledge‐brokerage in climate change adaptation.
Incidental catch of seabirds: strengthening observer programs and increasing cooperation
Authors: Huang H.‐W. , Yeh Y.‐M.
Published: April 2013

Read the Feature Paper: Estimates of seabird incidental catch by pelagic longline fisheries in the South Atlantic Ocean

Commentaries on this Feature Paper: Finding the missing pieces: working to solve the fisheries bycatch puzzle; Next step for reducing seabird bycatch; Requisite improvements to the estimation of seabird by‐catch in pelagic longline fisheries
Effects of naltrexone plus topiramate on ethanol self‐administration and tyrosine hydroxylase gene expression changes
Authors: Navarrete Francisco , Rubio Gabriel , Manzanares Jorge
Published: April 2013

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of naltrexone (0.7 mg/kg) and/or topiramate (25 mg/kg) on ethanol consumption and the motivation to drink in an oral‐operant conditioning paradigm in C57BL/6 mice. Subsequent real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) experiments were performed to analyze gene expression changes in tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). The administration of naltrexone significantly reduced ethanol consumption and the motivation to drink during the different stages of the experiment, whereas the treatment with topiramate resulted in a much lower effect. Interestingly, the administration of naltrexone plus topiramate reduced ethanol consumption markedly compared with single‐drug treatment. The water self‐administration paradigm was also performed using the same drugs and no differences were found between treatment groups. Real‐time PCR analyses revealed that naltrexone significantly normalized the increase of TH gene expression in the VTA induced by ethanol, whereas the administration of topiramate did not produce any significant effect. In the ethanol self‐administration procedure, the combination of both drugs further reduced TH gene expression, reaching statistical significance compared with the vehicle, naltrexone or topiramate groups. Taken together, these findings indicate that the administration of naltrexone plus topiramate further reduced ethanol consumption and the motivation to drink in comparison with single‐drug treatment. This action may be due, at least in part, to a greater decrease in TH gene expression in the VTA. These results suggest that the combination of both drugs deserves further exploration for the treatment of problems related to alcohol consumption.
Malignant change in seborrhoeic keratoses in a region with high solar ultraviolet levels
Authors: Gaffney Daniel C , Muir James B , De'Ambrosis Brian
Published: April 2013

Regions with high solar UV levels and high skin cancer rates may experience a greater incidence of malignancy in association with seborrhoeic keratoses (SebK) than in low UV regions. Previous reports have indicated that basal cell carcinoma is the most common neoplasm with reported rates of up to 4 per cent of excised SebK. The rates of such compound lesions occurring in our practice were reviewed, indicating that Bowen's disease was the most frequently observed neoplasm with a rate of 7 per cent. In total, 10 per cent of all excised specimens showed either frank malignancy or some degree of atypia.
Veno‐venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support during anaesthesia for oesophagectomy
Authors: Schiff J. H. , Köninger J. , Teschner J. , Henn‐Beilharz A. , Rost M. , Dubb R. , Danassis M. , Walther A.
Published: April 2013

The use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults has increased in popularity and importance for the support of patients with cardiac or pulmonary failure. Although it is now quite commonly used in the intensive care unit, its use has rarely been described as a means of support during anaesthesia and surgery. We report the case of a patient who required curative resection of the oesophagus following previous left pneumonectomy where veno‐venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was required both during surgery and for the first three days postoperatively. We describe the anaesthetic management of this patient who only had a single lung, review other alternatives and discuss why extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was particularly suited to this case. To the best of our knowledge, the anaesthetic literature to date does not contain a case report of this type.
The Impact of Economic Development on Political Development in Authoritarian States: An Initial Study of Interest in Politics Across Social Classes inChina
Authors: Owen David A.
Published: April 2013

Over the past several decades, modernization theory has offered much insight into the conditions necessary for a democratic transition. Proponents of this theory suggest that a link exists between economic development and a democratic transition. Economic development leads to a stronger middle class that develops a greater interest in politics and places demands upon the government, which may lead to regime concessions and an eventual democratic transition. Emerging research, however, suggests there is a link between economic development and the increase in the interest in politics within the working class. This study seeks to answer the question of how economic development impacts interest in politics across social classes in modern authoritarian states. I use ordered logistical regression to test hypotheses derived from these propositions. The results have important implications for understanding the relationship between economic development and political development.
South Korea's Overseas Troop Dispatch Policy
Authors: Tae‐hyung Kim
Published: April 2013

This article examines South Korea's foreign policy behaviors, focusing on its policy related to the issue of troop dispatches abroad. The analysis begins with an overview of troop dispatch overseas in international politics. After careful consideration of troop dispatch policies of other countries and the policy of South Korea, the study concludes that although there are various forms and declared objectives for Seoul's troop dispatch policy, the policy exhibits a consistent pattern: South Korea's relationships with and concern about the U.S. alliance is important; gaining economic benefits, especially winning construction projects, is an essential motivation; securing energy sources is also imperative; and Seoul's concern about its image and reputation around the world—and hence the promotion of soft power—is becoming increasingly important. The findings are both theoretically and empirically important given the lack of satisfactory research on nonmajor powers’ troop dispatch policies.
Usability testing of a multimedia e‐learning resource for electrolyte and acid‐base disorders
Authors: Davids Mogamat Razeen , Chikte Usuf , Grimmer‐Somers Karen , Halperin Mitchell L
Published: April 2013

The usability of computer interfaces may have a major influence on learning. Design approaches that optimize usability are commonplace in the software development industry but are seldom used in the development of e‐learning resources, especially in medical education. We conducted a usability evaluation of a multimedia resource for teaching electrolyte and acid‐base disorders by studying the interaction of 15 medical doctors with the application. Most of the usability problems occurred in an interactive treatment simulation, which was completed successfully by only 20% of participants. A total of 27 distinct usability problems were detected, with 15 categorized as serious. No differences were observed with respect to usability problems detected by junior doctors as compared with more experienced colleagues. Problems were related to user information and feedback, the visual layout, match with the real world, error prevention and management, and consistency and standards. The resource was therefore unusable for many participants; this is in contrast to good scores previously reported for subjective user satisfaction. The findings suggest that the development of e‐learning materials should follow an iterative design‐and‐test process that includes routine usability evaluation. User testing should include the study of objective measures and not rely only on self‐reported measures of satisfaction.
Bladder carcinoma in situ (CIS) in Australia: a rising incidence for an under‐reported malignancy
Authors: Ranasinghe Weranja K.B. , Attia John , Oldmeadow Christopher , Lawrentschuk Nathan , Robertson Jane , Ranasinghe Tamra , Bolton Damien , Persad Raj
Published: April 2013

Objectives

To investigate the incidence of carcinoma in situ (CIS) in Australia and examine implications for its diagnosis and management, as CIS of the urinary bladder is a non‐reportable disease in Australia.

Methods

Analysis of annual hospitalisation data using Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) datasets showed an increase in CIS from 2001 onwards.

To determine whether the increase seen with AIHW data represented a true increase in the rates offices, patient level data was examined using the Centre for Health record linkage (CHeReL) datasets.

Results

CHeReL linked data of 13 790 males and 5902 females, calculated the average incidence of CIS to be 20.9 per 100 000 and 6.5 per 100 000 respectively in those aged > 50 years, showing a rapid increase in the rates of CIS from 2001.

There was an 11% (P = 0.04) and 14% (P = 0.02) annual increase in incidence of CIS in men and women and these rates increased with age.

Conclusions

National data (AIHW) substantially underestimate the incidence of CIS in the Australian population.

Patient level data suggest CIS rates are rapidly increasing in Australia despite high treatment rates.

Closer surveillance and awareness of these high rates warrants further study and we recommend that CIS be considered a reportable disease.
Gene–Environment Correlation Underlying the Association Between Parental Negativity and Adolescent Externalizing Problems
Authors: Marceau Kristine , Horwitz Briana N. , Narusyte Jurgita , Ganiban Jody M. , Spotts Erica L. , Reiss David , Neiderhiser Jenae M.
Published: April 2013

Studies of adolescent or parent‐based twins suggest that gene–environment correlation (rGE) is an important mechanism underlying parent–adolescent relationships. However, information on how parents' and children's genes and environments influence correlated parent and child behaviors is needed to distinguish types of rGE. The present study used the novel Extended Children of Twins model to distinguish types of rGE underlying associations between negative parenting and adolescent (age 11–22 years) externalizing problems with a Swedish sample of 909 twin parents and their adolescent offspring and a U.S.‐based sample of 405 adolescent siblings and their parents. Results suggest that evocative rGE, not passive rGE or direct environmental effects of parenting on adolescent externalizing, explains associations between maternal and paternal negativity and adolescent externalizing problems.
REGULATORY DEALING: TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION VERSUS ENFORCEMENT STRINGENCY OF EMISSION TAXES
Authors: CORIA JESSICA , VILLEGAS‐PALACIO CLARA
Published: April 2013

We analyze the role of targeted enforcement of emissions taxes when the regulator wants to minimize aggregate emissions via the adoption of new more environmentally friendly technology. The regulator wants to speed up the path of technology adoption generated by a policy of uniform enforcement (that monitors adopters and nonadopters with the same probability) by engaging in a regulatory deal where a reduced monitoring probability is granted in “exchange” for adoption of the new technology. We set up a theoretical model, characterize the circumstances in which such dealing minimizes aggregate emissions, and test our hypothesis using economic laboratory experiments. Our analytical and experimental results suggest that even though such a deal might imply an increased level of violation by adopters, such tolerance is rather an integral part of an overall enforcement strategy that minimizes aggregate emissions when the rate of adoption is endogenous. (JEL L51, Q53, Q55, Q58)
Intensive glycemic control after heart transplantation is safe and effective for diabetic and non‐diabetic patients
Authors: Garcia Cristina , Wallia Amisha , Gupta Suruchi , Schmidt Kathleen , Malekar‐Raikar Shilpa , Johnson Oakes Diana , Aleppo Grazia , Grady Kathleen , McGee Edwin , Cotts William , Andrei Adin‐Cristian , Molitch Mark E.
Published: April 2013

Some studies have shown increased mortality, infection, and rejection rates among diabetic (DM) compared to non‐diabetic (non‐DM) patients undergoing heart transplant (HT). This is a retrospective chart review of adult patients (DM, n = 26; non‐DM, n = 66) undergoing HT between June 1, 2005, and July 31, 2009. Glycemic control used intravenous (IV) and subcutaneous (SQ) insulin protocols with a glucose target of 80–110 mg/dL. There were no significant differences between DM and non‐DM patients in mean glucose levels on the IV and SQ insulin protocols. Severe hypoglycemia (glucose <40 mg/dL) did not occur on the IV protocol and was experienced by only 3 non‐DM patients on the SQ protocol. Moderate hypoglycemia (glucose >40 and <60 mg/dL) occurred in 17 (19%) patients on the IV protocol and 24 (27%) on the SQ protocol. There were no significant differences between DM and non‐DM patients within 30 d of surgery in all‐cause mortality, treated HT rejection episodes, reoperation, prolonged ventilation, 30‐d readmissions, ICU readmission, number of ICU hours, hospitalization days after HT, or infections. This study demonstrates that DM and non‐DM patients can achieve excellent glycemic control post‐HT with IV and SQ insulin protocols with similar surgical outcomes and low hypoglycemia rates.
Treatment of tinea capitis – griseofulvin versus fluconazole – a comparative study
Authors: Shemer Avner , Plotnik Ira Bernstein , Davidovici Batya , Grunwald Marcelo H. , Magun Ronen , Amichai Boaz
Published: April 2013

Objective

To compare the efficacy and safety of fluconazole and griseofulvin in the treatment of tinea capitis.

Patients and Methods

Patients with tinea capitis (n = 113) with positive fungal cultures entered the study. The patients were divided into four groups with different treatment regimes. Two groups received griseofulvin 15 or 25 mg/kg/day and two groups received fluconazole 4 or 6 mg/kg/day, all for up to 12 weeks.

Results

Griseofulvin was found to be slightly better than fluconazole. The lower doses for both griseofulvin and fluconazole required significantly longer treatment duration until mycological cure than the higher doses, independent of the fungus type.

Conclusions

Since no significant difference was found between the drugs, it is suggested that the choice should be based on tolerability, availability and cost of the drugs.
Effects of pioglitazone versus glimepiride exposure on hepatocellular fat content in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Phielix E. , Brehm A. , Bernroider E. , Krssak M. , Anderwald C.‐H. , Krebs M. , Schmid A. I. , Nowotny P. , Roden M.
Published: April 2013

Aims

Thiazoledinediones decrease blood glucose by their insulin‐sensitizing properties. Here, we examined whether pioglitazone plus nateglinide (PIO) interferes with hepatocellular lipid (HCL) content and/or improves insulin sensitivity in well‐controlled non‐obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

Sixteen patients [body mass index (BMI): 28 ± 1 kg/m2; HbA1c: 7.1 ± 0.6%] were studied in a randomized, double‐blind, 12‐week parallel group trial, whereas matched healthy humans [non‐diabetic control subjects (CON), BMI: 26 ± 1 kg/m2] were studied once. Treatment with pioglitazone (30 mg/day) plus nateglinide (PIO arm) to control for glimepiride‐induced insulin secretion was compared to treatment with glimepiride (2 mg/day) plus placebo (GLI arm). Multinuclei magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) was combined with pancreatic normoglycaemic‐two‐step‐insulin clamps and stable isotopes to assess glucose turnover, glucose transport/phosphorylation, HCL and intramyocellular lipid (IMCL) contents, non‐esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and adipokines.

Results

At baseline, HCL was approximately 5.6‐fold higher in T2DM (p < 0.05 vs. CON). This was paralleled by approximately doubled leptin : adiponectin ratios (p < 0.05). HCL decreased by approximately 39% (p < 0.05) after PIO and only tended to decrease after GLI (p = 0.12). Treatment with PIO did not affect leptin : adiponectin ratios, but slightly improved (p < 0.05) insulin‐mediated NEFA suppression, which related to lower HCL. PIO further prevented the insulin‐induced increase in IMCL content of soleus and tibialis anterior muscles. Peripheral and hepatic insulin sensitivity, glucose transport and glycaemic control did not change in both groups.

Conclusion

Short‐term, low‐dose thiazolidendione treatment improves insulin sensitivity of lipolysis and HCL, without affecting muscle and liver insulin sensitivity. It appears that metabolic PIO action in T2DM is primarily mediated via a decline in HCL associated with greater sensitivity of lipolysis to insulin.
Diagnostic and prognostic use ofL‐lactate measurement in equine practice
Authors: Henderson I. S. F.
Published: April 2013

Lactate concentrations can now be measured rapidly and inexpensively in equine hospitals or in the field with a degree of accuracy that is acceptable when compared to laboratory analysers. Arterial or venous blood samples can be used. Short‐term storage of samples for up to 4 h at room temperature does not appear to affect the result. Taking a sample in the field and returning to the practice to analyse it is therefore feasible.

Lactate measurement is useful in horses with colic to aid in the diagnosis of an ischaemic lesion and to determine the probability of a successful outcome if surgery is undertaken. Lactate concentrations are also useful as an indicator of hypoxia and/or circulatory disturbances associated withintra‐, orpost partumabnormalities including dystocia, prematurity, dysmaturity, neonatal encephalopathy, sepsis, systemic inflammatory response syndrome or enteritis. Measuring lactate concentrations may assist in determining the severity of these conditions and the need for intensive care. Initial lactate concentration and increases or decreases in blood lactate concentration following a period of treatment can provide useful prognostic information. Lactate may also be measured during training to monitor fitness and performance.
Gender, Foreignness and Academia: An Intersectional Analysis of the Experiences of Foreign Women Academics in UK Business Schools
Authors: Johansson Marjana , Śliwa Martyna
Published: April 2013

This article explores the experiences of a growing but hitherto under‐researched category of academics employed within UK higher education: women of non‐UK origin. Drawing on an intersectional approach, we examine how gender and foreignness act as dynamic, interrelating categories in producing particular subjectivities in the context of UK business schools. We employ a qualitative methodology based on narrative interviews with 31 foreign women academics. In the analysis, we outline the broader global forces that have shaped their trajectories in choosing the UK as their destination, and the place of gender and foreignness in the participants' narratives of their experience. Our findings point to how the discourse of internationalization conceals intra‐categorical differences among non‐national staff, further supported by a merit‐based system that promotes an individualized view. However, participants' narratives provide examples of how gender and foreignness are mobilized in different ways by different actors — including themselves — in the production of social locations. As such, the paper contributes to critical debates regarding the academic workplace and the changing conditions of UK academia.
Detection of ABL1 kinase mutations in Philadelphia‐positive patients exhibiting an inadequate molecular response using restriction fragment mass polymorphism and its clinical significance: a single‐center experience in Korea
Authors: Cho Y.‐U. , Kim S.‐O. , Chi H.‐S. , Park S.‐J. , Jang S. , Park C.‐J. , Seo E.‐J. , Lee J.‐H. , Lee J.‐H. , Lee K.‐H. , Im H.‐J. , Seo J.‐J. , Hong S. P.
Published: April 2013

Introduction

ABL1 kinase mutations represent a major mechanism of imatinib resistance in Philadelphia‐positive (Ph+) patients. There is a paucity of data on ABL1 kinase mutations in Ph+ patients in Korea.

Methods

We used restriction fragment mass polymorphism (RFMP) analysis to detect ABL1 kinase mutations in blood or bone marrow specimens from 80 Ph+ patients.

Results

Fifty‐seven patients met the criteria for inadequate molecular response (IMR). ABL1 kinase mutations were found in 2.6% of patients with chronic‐phase chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), 25.0% of accelerated‐phase CML, 66.7% of blast‐phase CML, and in 58.3% with Ph+ acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Twelve mutations were identified: 7 T315I, 2 E255V, 1 E255K, 1 F359V, and 1 Y253H. The majority of mutation‐positive patients showed an unfavorable clinical course and often had an extra Ph or additional chromosomal abnormalities. Mutations were detected in two patients who had very low or absent BCR‐ABL1 normalized ratios.

Conclusion

Mutation analysis should be performed in Ph+ patients exhibiting an IMR to imatinib. RFMP analysis is helpful for revising therapeutic strategies because it can sensitively detect clinically relevant ABL1 kinase mutations with high frequencies.
Salvage intensity modulated radiotherapy using endorectal balloon after radical prostatectomy: Clinical outcomes
Authors: Ishiyama Hiromichi , Teh Bin S , Blanco Angel I , Paulino Arnold C , Mai Wei‐Yuan , Caillouet James , Xu Bo , Butler E Brian
Published: April 2013

Objectives

To evaluate biochemical non‐evidence of disease and adverse events of salvage intensity‐modulated radiotherapy using an endorectal balloon for prostate cancer patients after radical prostatectomy.

Methods

Data of 107 patients (median age 65 years) with persistent (>0.1 ng/mL) or rising prostate‐specific antigen after radical prostatectomy were retrospectively analyzed. The mean dose to clinical target volume was 70 Gy in 32 fractions (the equivalent dose in 2 Gy fraction is 73.2 Gy based on α:β = 2). Biochemical non‐evidence of disease and predictive factors were assessed. Genitourinary toxicity and gastrointestinal toxicity were also evaluated using the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group toxicity criteria.

Results

The median follow up was 37 months (range 6–126 months). A total of 48 patients developed biochemical recurrence. The 3‐ and 5‐year biochemical non‐evidence of disease rates of all patients were 52.6% and 48.8%, respectively. The Gleason score (≥4 + 3, ≤3 + 4) and pre‐intensity‐modulated radiotherapy prostate‐specific antigen level (≥0.5 ng/mL, <0.5 ng/mL) were significant predictive factors for biochemical non‐evidence of disease in univariate analysis. In multivariate analysis, only the Gleason score was detected as a significant variable. The highest late genitourinary toxicities were grade 2 in 13% and grade 3 in 6% of patients. The highest late gastrointestinal toxicities were grade 2 in 6% and grade 3 in 3% of patients.

Conclusion

Despite a relatively high radiation dose, intensity‐modulated radiotherapy with an endorectal balloon can be delivered with acceptable toxicity and efficacy for patients developing biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy.