bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of a large community-based outbreak of hepatitis B infection in the United Kingdom
Authors: ANDERSSON M. I. , LOW N. , IRISH C. J. , VERLANDER N. Q. , CARRINGTON D. , HORNER P. , STUART J. M. , HICKMAN M.
Published: November 2011

We describe the largest outbreak of hepatitis B virus infection reported to date in the UK. Between July 2001 and December 2005, 237 cases were identified in Avon, South West England. The likely route of transmission was injecting drug use in 44% (104/237) and heterosexual intercourse in 30% (71/237) of cases. A case-control study in injectors showed that injecting crack cocaine [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 23·8, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3·04–186, P<0·001] and sharing injecting paraphernalia in the year before diagnosis (aOR 16·67, 95% CI 1·78–100, P=0·010) were strongly associated with acute hepatitis B. In non-IDUs number of sexual partners and lack of consistent condom use were high compared to a national sample. We describe the control measures implemented in response to the outbreak. This outbreak has highlighted the problems associated with the low uptake from the national hepatitis B vaccination policy which targets high-risk groups, the difficulties of identifying those at risk of acquiring hepatitis B infection through heterosexual sex, and injecting crack cocaine as a risk factor for hepatitis B.
Completeness of West Nile virus testing in patients with meningitis and encephalitis during an outbreak in Arizona, USA
Authors: WEBER I. B. , LINDSEY N. P. , BUNKO-PATTERSON A. M. , BRIGGS G. , WADLEIGH T. J. , SYLVESTER T. L. , LEVY C. , KOMATSU K. K. , LEHMAN J. A. , FISCHER M. , STAPLES J. E.
Published: November 2011

Accurate data on West Nile virus (WNV) cases help guide public health education and control activities, and impact regional WNV blood product screening procedures. During an outbreak of WNV disease in Arizona, records from patients with meningitis or encephalitis were reviewed to determine the proportion tested for WNV. Of 60 patients identified with meningitis or encephalitis, 24 (40%) were tested for WNV. Only 12 (28%) of 43 patients aged <50 years were tested for WNV compared to 12 (71%) of 17 patients aged ⩾50 years (P<0·01). Patients with clinical signs of weakness or paralysis, elevated CSF protein, admitted to an inpatient facility, or discharged to a rehabilitation facility were also more likely to have WNV testing performed. The lack of testing in younger age groups and in those with less severe disease probably resulted in substantial underestimates of WNV neuroinvasive disease burden.
Libraries, Schoolrooms, and Mud Gadowns: Formal Scenes of Reading at East India Company Stations in India, c. 1819–1835
Authors: MURPHY SHARON
Published: November 2011

The East India Company began to establish lending libraries for soldiers at its stations in India from about 1891 and, by the early 1830s, the majority of those responsible for the day-to-day operation of these institutions were keen to stress their beneficial effect upon the readers who frequented them. In a series of reports that were written at this time station chaplains and commanding officers emphasised that reading was having a positive effect upon the men's behaviour. What also emerges from these reports is evidence of a contemporary belief that the ‘setting’ in which reading took place determined the degree to which the activity was beneficial.
Eurasians in British Asia during the Second World War
Authors: YAP FELICIA
Published: November 2011

One of the most important minorities in the British colonial empire in Asia consisted of those of mixed European and Asian parentage and/or ancestry, or Eurasians, as they were widely known. It is perhaps surprising that despite the voluminous literature written about British colonial communities in the East, relatively little scholarly attention has been paid to Eurasians and their histories. A closer examination of the members of this marginalised colonial category is nevertheless crucial as they stood at the problematic boundaries of racial politics and identity, and are therefore vital to our understanding of the tensions of empire. The few existing studies of Eurasians in British Asia have tended to focus on the experiences of Eurasians either before or after the Second World War, neglecting the period of Japanese occupation as a significant epoch in the evolution of these communities. In reality, if we intend to unravel the multi-layered history of Eurasians in this region, we must examine the critical position of these colonial communities during this tumultuous period. The nuances of their intriguing wartime relationships with both the British and the Japanese also merit serious attention. With these aims in mind, this article will investigate the compelling experiences of Eurasian communities in Japanese-occupied British Asia, with an especial focus on those who were incarcerated by the Japanese in civilian internment camps in Hong Kong and Singapore.
The Stone Maitreya of Leh: The Rediscovery and Recovery of an Early Tibetan Monument
Authors: ALEXANDER ANDRÉ , VAN SCHAIK SAM
Published: November 2011

The rediscovery, conservation and repositioning of an ancient stone carved Buddha in Leh, Ladakh is one of the most important events in recent years for students of early Tibetan history and religion. Uncovering an inscription next to the carving has made it possible to date this artefact to the eleventh century or even earlier, while deciphering the inscription has confirmed that the figure should be identified as the Buddha Maitreya. This identification permits a better understanding of how the cult of Maitreya among of the emperors of imperial Tibet extended to western Tibet, and how the Maitreya images of western Tibet represent a specific local iconography.
Report of the Honorary Treasurer to the Anniversary General Meeting on 12 May 2011
Authors: Pullen Diccon
Published: November 2011

Fellows of the Royal Asiatic Society, ladies and gentlemen, I am honoured to present the annual Report and Financial Statements of your Society for the year ended 31 December 2010, copies of which you should have found on your seats.
Feedback in web-based questionnaires as incentive to increase compliance in studies on lifestyle factors
Authors: Bälter Olle , Fondell Elinor , Bälter Katarina
Published: November 2011

Objective

We explored the use of feedback in interactive web-based questionnaires for collecting data on lifestyle factors in epidemiological studies.

Design

Here we report from a cohort study on lifestyle factors and upper respiratory tract infections among 1805 men and women. We introduced interactivity in the form of personalized feedback and feedback on a group level regarding dietary intake, physical activity and incidence of infections in web-based questionnaires as incentives for the respondents to continue answering questions and stay in the study.

Setting

The study was performed in Sweden.

Subjects

All participants were randomly selected from the population registry.

Results

Personalized feedback was offered in the baseline questionnaire and feedback on a group level in the five follow-up questionnaires. In total, 88 % of the participants actively chose to get personalized feedback at least once in the baseline questionnaire. The follow-up questionnaires were sent by email and the overall compliance at each follow-up was 83–84 %, despite only one reminder. In total, 74 % completed all five follow-ups. However, the compliance was higher among those who chose feedback in the baseline questionnaire compared with those who did not choose feedback.

Conclusions

The results show that it is possible to use feedback in web questionnaires and that it has the potential to increase compliance. The majority of the participants actively chose to take part in the personalized feedback in the baseline questionnaire and future research should focus on improving the design of the feedback, which may ultimately result in even higher compliance in research studies.
Swine influenza surveillance in East and Southeast Asia: a systematic review
Authors: Trevennec Karen , Cowling Benjamin J. , Peyre Marisa , Baudon Eugénie , Martineau Guy-Pierre , Roger François
Published: November 2011

East and Southeast Asia are important pig- and poultry-producing areas, where the majority of production takes place on small-scale farms with low biosecurity levels. This systematic review synthesizes data on swine influenza virology, serology and epidemiology in East and Southeast Asia. A total of 77 research articles, literature reviews and conference papers were selected and analyzed from 510 references retrieved from PubMed and ISI Web of KnowledgeSM. The number of published articles increased in the last 3 years, which may be attributed to improvement in monitoring and/or a better promotion of surveillance data. Nevertheless, large inequalities in surveillance and research among countries are underlined. Virological results represent the largest part of published data, while the serological and epidemiological features of swine influenza in East and Southeast Asia remain poorly described. The literature shows that there have been several emergences of swine influenza in the region, and also considerable evidence of multiple introductions of North American and avian-like European strains. Furthermore, several avian-origin strains are isolated from pigs, including H5 and H9 subtypes. However, their low seroprevalence in swine also shows that pigs remain poorly infected by these subtypes. We conclude that sero-epidemioligical investigations have been neglected, and that they may help to improve virological surveillance. Inter- and intra-continental surveillance of gene flows will benefit the region. Greater investment is needed in swine influenza surveillance, to improve our knowledge of circulating strains as well as the epidemiology and disease burden in the region.
Electromagnetic dosimetry for adult and child models within a car: multi-exposure scenarios
Authors: Harris Louis-Ray , Zhadobov Maxim , Chahat Nacer , Sauleau Ronan
Published: November 2011

This paper deals with the numerical dosimetry for adult and children models exposed to CW signals of several wireless communication systems (UMTS, WiMax, and Bluetooth) within a partly shielded environment represented by a realistic car model. More than 20 mono- and multi-source exposure scenarios are considered. Computational results demonstrate that, for all considered exposure scenarios, the specific absorption rate (SAR) is at least 40 times (whole-body average) and 10 times (local SAR) lower than the exposure limits fixed by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). The whole-body average SAR values for children are found to be typically 1.1–1.3 times higher than those of adults. Under several exposure scenarios, the local SAR in the limbs of children models is 2–3 times higher than corresponding values in adult models. The power density distributions within the car have been also analyzed for one, two, and three simultaneously emitting devices. The results show that the homogeneity of the power density distribution increases with increasing number of simultaneously operating transmitters. These data suggest that the use of several wireless communication devices within a car leads to exposure levels that are several orders of magnitude below international exposure limits, even for the multi-exposure scenarios for both adult and children models.
Explosion mechanisms at Arenal volcano, Costa Rica: An interpretation from integration of seismic and Doppler radar data
Authors: Valade S. , Donnadieu F. , Lesage P. , Mora M. M. , Harris A. , Alvarado G. E.
Published: November 2011

We execute an integrated analysis of broadband seismic and Doppler radar data to gain insights into the subsurface mechanisms that drive repetitive, mildly explosive activity of Arenal volcano (Costa Rica). We find large variability of both seismic and radar waveforms, and nonsystematic relationships between the two. Seismic recordings display long‐lasting tremor sequences and numerous explosion quakes. Radar measurements show that tephra emissions are poorly correlated, in both time and energy, to the seismic activity. Tephra emissions were found in association with explosion quakes but also during episodes of tremor and seismic quiescence. Moreover, the exit velocity, mass loading, and kinetic energy of the emissions show no clear relationship with the coeval seismic amplitude and frequency content. We propose a conceptual source model whereby degasing is controlled by opening and closing of fractures that crosscut a rigid cap atop the conduit. When the fracture's strength is overcome by the gas pressure building up below, it suddenly opens and high‐velocity gas escapes, producing high‐frequency elastic waves typical of explosion quakes. Gas release also occurs in relation to periodic opening and closure of the fractures to produce repetitive pressure pulses, this being the source of tremor. In both cases, varying quantities of fragmented material may be carried by the gas, which can be detected by the radar if their concentration is high enough. Moreover, the highly variable, constantly changing state of lava cap (e.g., thickness, fracture network and gas permeability) results in nonrepeatable source conditions and explains the complex relationship between tephra emissions and associated seismic signals.
Dissolved iron in the Arctic shelf seas and surface waters of the central Arctic Ocean: Impact of Arctic river water and ice‐melt
Authors: Klunder M. B. , Bauch D. , Laan P. , de Baar H. J. W. , van Heuven S. , Ober S.
Published: November 2011

Concentrations of dissolved (<0.2 μm) Fe (DFe) in the Arctic shelf seas and in the surface waters of the central Arctic Ocean are presented. In the Barents and Kara seas, near‐surface DFe minima indicate depletion of DFe by phytoplankton growth. Below the surface, lower DFe concentrations in the Kara Sea (∼0.4–0.6 nM) than in the Barents Sea (∼0.6–0.8 nM) likely reflect scavenging removal or biological depletion of DFe. Very high DFe concentrations (>10 nM) in the bottom waters of the Laptev Sea shelf may be attributed to either sediment resuspension, sinking of brine or regeneration of DFe in the lower layers. A significant correlation (R2 = 0.60) between salinity and DFe is observed. Using δ18O, salinity, nutrients and total alkalinity data, the main source for the high (>2 nM) DFe concentrations in the Amundsen and Makarov Basins is identified as (Eurasian) river water, transported with the Transpolar Drift (TPD). On the North American side of the TPD, the DFe concentrations are low (<0.8 nM) and variations are determined by the effects of sea‐ice meltwater, biological depletion and remineralization and scavenging in halocline waters from the shelf. This distribution pattern of DFe is also supported by the ratio between unfiltered and dissolved Fe (high (>4) above the shelf and low (<4) off the shelf).
Thermal infrared emissivity measurements under a simulated lunar environment: Application to the Diviner Lunar Radiometer Experiment
Authors: Donaldson Hanna Kerri L. , Wyatt Michael B. , Thomas Ian R. , Bowles Neil E. , Greenhagen Benjamin T. , Maturilli Alessandro , Helbert Joern , Paige David A.
Published: November 2011

We present new laboratory thermal infrared emissivity spectra of the major silicate minerals identified on the Moon measured under lunar environmental conditions and evaluate their application to lunar remote sensing data sets. Thermal infrared spectral changes between ambient and lunar environmental conditions are characterized for the first time over the 400∼1700 cm−1 (6–25 μm) spectral range for a fine‐particulate mineral suite including plagioclase (albite and anorthite), pyroxene (enstatite and augite), and olivine (forsterite). The lunar environment introduces observable effects in thermal infrared emissivity spectra of fine particulate minerals, which include: (1) a shift in the Christiansen feature (CF) position to higher wave numbers (shorter wavelengths), (2) an increase in the overall spectral contrast, and (3) decreases in the spectral contrast of the reststrahlen bands and transparency features. Our new measurements demonstrate the high sensitivity of thermal infrared emissivity spectra to environmental conditions under which they are measured and provide important constraints for interpreting new thermal infrared data sets of the Moon, including the Diviner Lunar Radiometer Experiment onboard NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. Full resolution laboratory mineral spectra convolved to Diviner's three spectral channels show that spectral shape, CF position and band ratios can be used to distinguish between individual mineral groups and lunar lithologies. The integration of the thermal infrared CF position with near infrared spectral parameters allows for robust mineralogical identifications and provides a framework for future integrations of data sets across two different wavelength regimes.
Theoretical analysis of the role of chromatin interactions in long-range action of enhancers and insulators
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Swagatam , Schedl Paul , Studitsky Vasily M. , Sengupta Anirvan M.
Published: November 2011

Long-distance regulatory interactions between enhancers and their target genes are commonplace in higher eukaryotes. Interposed boundaries or insulators are able to block these long-distance regulatory interactions. The mechanistic basis for insulator activity and how it relates to enhancer action-at-a-distance remains unclear. Here we explore the idea that topological loops could simultaneously account for regulatory interactions of distal enhancers and the insulating activity of boundary elements. We show that while loop formation is not in itself sufficient to explain action at a distance, incorporating transient nonspecific and moderate attractive interactions between the chromatin fibers strongly enhances long-distance regulatory interactions and is sufficient to generate a euchromatin-like state. Under these same conditions, the subdivision of the loop into two topologically independent loops by insulators inhibits interdomain interactions. The underlying cause of this effect is a suppression of crossings in the contact map at intermediate distances. Thus our model simultaneously accounts for regulatory interactions at a distance and the insulator activity of boundary elements. This unified model of the regulatory roles of chromatin loops makes several testable predictions that could be confronted with in vitro experiments, as well as genomic chromatin conformation capture and fluorescent microscopic approaches.
Distinct molecular underpinnings of
Drosophila
olfactory trace conditioning
Authors: Shuai Yichun , Hu Ying , Qin Hongtao , Campbell Robert A. A. , Zhong Yi
Published: November 2011

Trace conditioning is valued as a simple experimental model to assess how the brain associates events that are discrete in time. Here, we adapted an olfactory trace conditioning procedure in
Drosophila melanogaster
by training fruit flies to avoid an odor that is followed by foot shock many seconds later. The molecular underpinnings of the learning are distinct from the well-characterized simultaneous conditioning, where odor and punishment temporally overlap. First, Rutabaga adenylyl cyclase (Rut-AC), a putative molecular coincidence detector vital for simultaneous conditioning, is dispensable in trace conditioning. Second, dominant-negative Rac expression, thought to sustain early labile memory, significantly enhances learning of trace conditioning, but leaves simultaneous conditioning unaffected. We further show that targeting Rac inhibition to the mushroom body (MB) but not the antennal lobe (AL) suffices to achieve the enhancement effect. Moreover, the absence of trace conditioning learning in
D1 dopamine receptor
mutants is rescued by restoration of expression specifically in the adult MB. These results suggest the MB as a crucial neuroanatomical locus for trace conditioning, which may harbor a Rac activity-sensitive olfactory “sensory buffer” that later converges with the punishment signal carried by dopamine signaling. The distinct molecular signature of trace conditioning revealed here shall contribute to the understanding of how the brain overcomes a temporal gap in potentially related events.
A perceptual metric for photo retouching
Authors: Kee Eric , Farid Hany
Published: November 2011

In recent years, advertisers and magazine editors have been widely criticized for taking digital photo retouching to an extreme. Impossibly thin, tall, and wrinkle- and blemish-free models are routinely splashed onto billboards, advertisements, and magazine covers. The ubiquity of these unrealistic and highly idealized images has been linked to eating disorders and body image dissatisfaction in men, women, and children. In response, several countries have considered legislating the labeling of retouched photos. We describe a quantitative and perceptually meaningful metric of photo retouching. Photographs are rated on the degree to which they have been digitally altered by explicitly modeling and estimating geometric and photometric changes. This metric correlates well with perceptual judgments of photo retouching and can be used to objectively judge by how much a retouched photo has strayed from reality.
Human artificial chromosome (HAC) vector with a conditional centromere for correction of genetic deficiencies in human cells
Authors: Kim Jung-Hyun , Kononenko Artem , Erliandri Indri , Kim Tae-Aug , Nakano Megumi , Iida Yuichi , Barrett J. Carl , Oshimura Mitsuo , Masumoto Hiroshi , Earnshaw William C. , Larionov Vladimir , Kouprina Natalay
Published: November 2011

Human artificial chromosome (HAC)-based vectors offer a promising system for delivery and expression of full-length human genes of any size. HACs avoid the limited cloning capacity, lack of copy number control, and insertional mutagenesis caused by integration into host chromosomes that plague viral vectors. We previously described a synthetic HAC that can be easily eliminated from cell populations by inactivation of its conditional kinetochore. Here, we demonstrate the utility of this HAC, which has a unique gene acceptor site, for delivery of full-length genes and correction of genetic deficiencies in human cells. A battery of functional tests was performed to demonstrate expression of
NBS1
and
VHL
genes from the HAC at physiological levels. We also show that phenotypes arising from stable gene expression can be reversed when cells are “cured” of the HAC by inactivating its kinetochore in proliferating cell populations, a feature that provides a control for phenotypic changes attributed to expression of HAC-encoded genes. This generation of human artificial chromosomes should be suitable for studies of gene function and therapeutic applications.
Antitumor activity from antigen-specific CD8 T cells generated in vivo from genetically engineered human hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Vatakis Dimitrios N. , Koya Richard C. , Nixon Christopher C. , Wei Liu , Kim Sohn G. , Avancena Patricia , Bristol Gregory , Baltimore David , Kohn Donald B. , Ribas Antoni , Radu Caius G. , Galic Zoran , Zack Jerome A.
Published: November 2011

The goal of cancer immunotherapy is the generation of an effective, stable, and self-renewing antitumor T-cell population. One such approach involves the use of high-affinity cancer-specific T-cell receptors in gene-therapy protocols. Here, we present the generation of functional tumor-specific human T cells in vivo from genetically modified human hematopoietic stem cells (hHSC) using a human/mouse chimera model. Transduced hHSC expressing an HLA-A*0201–restricted melanoma-specific T-cell receptor were introduced into humanized mice, resulting in the generation of a sizeable melanoma-specific naïve CD8
+
T-cell population. Following tumor challenge, these transgenic CD8
+
T cells, in the absence of additional manipulation, limited and cleared human melanoma tumors in vivo. Furthermore, the genetically enhanced T cells underwent proper thymic selection, because we did not observe any responses against non–HLA-matched tumors, and no killing of any kind occurred in the absence of a human thymus. Finally, the transduced hHSC established long-term bone marrow engraftment. These studies present a potential therapeutic approach and an important tool to understand better and to optimize the human immune response to melanoma and, potentially, to other types of cancer.
Discovery of a biofilm electrocline using real-time 3D metabolite analysis
Authors: Koley Dipankar , Ramsey Matthew M. , Bard Allen J. , Whiteley Marvin
Published: November 2011

Bacteria are social organisms that possess multiple pathways for sensing and responding to small molecules produced by other microbes. Most bacteria in nature exist in sessile communities called biofilms, and the ability of biofilm bacteria to sense and respond to small molecule signals and cues produced by neighboring biofilm bacteria is particularly important. To understand microbial interactions between biofilms, it is necessary to perform rapid, real-time spatial quantification of small molecules in microenvironments immediately surrounding biofilms; however, such measurements have been elusive. In this study, scanning electrochemical microscopy was used to quantify small molecules surrounding a biofilm in 3D space. Measuring concentrations of the redox-active signaling molecule pyocyanin (PYO) produced by biofilms of the bacterium
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
revealed a high concentration of PYO that is actively maintained in the reduced state proximal to the biofilm. This gradient results in a reduced layer of PYO that we have termed the PYO “electrocline,” a gradient of redox potential, which extends several hundred microns from the biofilm surface. We also demonstrate that the PYO electrocline is formed under electron acceptor-limiting conditions, and that growth conditions favoring formation of the PYO electrocline correlate to an increase in soluble iron. Additionally, we have taken a “reactive image” of a biofilm surface, demonstrating the rate of bacterial redox activity across a 2D surface. These studies establish methodology for spatially coordinated concentration and redox status measurements of microbe-produced small molecules and provide exciting insights into the roles these molecules play in microbial competition and nutrient acquisition.
Meiotic double-strand breaks occur once per pair of (sister) chromatids and, via Mec1/ATR and Tel1/ATM, once per quartet of chromatids
Authors: Zhang Liangran , Kim Keun P. , Kleckner Nancy E. , Storlazzi Aurora
Published: November 2011

Meiotic recombination initiates via programmed double-strand breaks (DSBs). We investigate whether, at a given initiation site, DSBs occur independently among the four available chromatids. For a single DSB “hot spot”, the proportions of nuclei exhibiting zero, one, or two (or more) observable events were defined by tetrad analysis and compared with those predicted by different DSB distribution scenarios. Wild-type patterns are incompatible with independent distribution of DSBs among the four chromatids. In most or all nuclei, DSBs occur one-per-pair of chromatids, presumptively sisters. In many nuclei, only one DSB occurs per four chromatids, confirming the existence of
trans
inhibition where a DSB on one chromosome interactively inhibits DSB formation on the partner chromosome. Several mutants exhibit only a one-per-pair constraint, a phenotype we propose to imply loss of
trans
inhibition. Signal transduction kinases Mec1 (ATR) and Tel1 (ATM) exhibit this phenotype and thus could be mediators of this effect. Spreading
trans
inhibition can explain even spacing of total recombinational interactions and implies that establishment of interhomolog interactions and DSB formation are homeostatic processes. The two types of constraints on DSB formation provide two different safeguards against recombination failure during meiosis.
Reaerosolization of MS2 Bacteriophage from an N95 Filtering Facepiece Respirator by Simulated Coughing
Authors: Fisher Edward M. , Richardson Aaron W. , Harpest Shannon D. , Hofacre Kent C. , Shaffer Ronald E.
Published: November 2011

The supply of N95 filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) may not be adequate to match demand during a pandemic outbreak. One possible strategy to maintain supplies in healthcare settings is to extend FFR use for multiple patient encounters; however, contaminated FFRs may serve as a source for the airborne transmission of virus particles. In this study, reaerosolization of virus particles from contaminated FFRs was examined using bacteriophage MS2 as a surrogate for airborne pathogenic viruses. MS2 was applied to FFRs as droplets or droplet nuclei. A simulated cough (370 l min−1 peak flow) provided reverse airflow through the contaminated FFR. The number and size of the reaerosolized particles were measured using gelatin filters and an Andersen Cascade Impactor (ACI). Two droplet nuclei challenges produced higher percentages of reaerosolized particles (0.21 and 0.08%) than a droplet challenge (<0.0001%). Overall, the ACI-determined size distribution of the reaerosolized particles was larger than the characterized loading virus aerosol. This study demonstrates that only a small percentage of viable MS2 viruses was reaerosolized from FFRs by reverse airflow under the conditions evaluated, suggesting that the risks of exposure due to reaerosolization associated with extended use can be considered negligible for most respiratory viruses. However, risk assessments should be updated as new viruses emerge and better workplace exposure data becomes available.
Correlation of paired toxic plasma and saliva paracetamol concentrations following deliberate self‐poisoning with paracetamol
Authors: Soderstrom Jessamine H. , Fatovich Daniel M. , Mandelt Christine , Vasikaran Sam , McCoubrie David L. , Daly Frank F. , Burrows Sally A.
Published: November 2011

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT

• Paracetamol is commonly used in deliberate self poisoning (DSP) and this requires blood sampling to refine risk assessment. If saliva concentrations agreed with plasma concentrations, then this could support the development of non‐invasive testing. Our pilot work supports this hypothesis, but was largely confined to nontoxic concentrations.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

• We found agreement between the indications for treatment of paracetamol DSP based on plasma and saliva paracetamol concentrations. Saliva may hold promise as a non‐invasive method to risk stratify paracetamol poisoning.

AIMS Paracetamol is commonly used in deliberate self poisoning (DSP) and requires blood sampling to refine risk assessment. We aimed to test the agreement between plasma and saliva paracetamol concentrations in the toxic range in DSP.

METHODS Contemporaneous paired plasma and saliva paracetamol concentrations were measured. Saliva was collected using a Sarstedt Salivette® device and the concentration was measured using a colorimetric method.

RESULTS Fifty‐six patients (44, 78% female) median age 26 years (IQR 20–41) were enrolled. The median reported paracetamol ingestion was 10 g (IQR 6–14). Specimens were collected at a median of 4 h (IQR 4–5.3) post ingestion. The median plasma and saliva paracetamol concentrations were 29 mg l−1 (IQR 8–110) and 38 mg l−1 (IQR 10–105) respectively [mean difference 8 mg l−1, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2, 14]. Lin's concordance correlation was 0.97 (95% CI 0.96, 0.98). There were 15 patients who were treated with N‐acetylcysteine. Their median reported paracetamol ingestion was 14 g (IQR 10–23) and samples were collected at a median of 4 h post ingestion. The median plasma and saliva paracetamol concentrations were 167 mg l−1 (IQR 110–200) and 170 mg l−1 (IQR 103–210) respectively (mean difference 15 mg l−1, 95% CI −4, 35). Lin's concordance correlation was 0.94 (95% CI 0.88, 0.99). No patient needing treatment would have been missed using saliva concentrations only.

CONCLUSIONS The agreement between the indications for treatment of paracetamol DSP based on plasma and saliva paracetamol concentrations extends into the toxic range, but with slightly lower agreement. Saliva may hold promise as a non‐invasive method to risk stratify paracetamol poisoning.
The 10th anniversary of the Junior Members and Affiliates of the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Authors: Skevaki Chrysanthi L. , Maggina Paraskevi , Santos Alexandra F. , Rodrigues‐Alves Rodrigo , Antolin‐Amerigo Dario , Borrego Luis Miguel , Bretschneider Isabell , Butiene Indre , Couto Mariana , Fassio Filippo , Gardner James , Xatzipsalti Maria , Hovhannisyan Lilit , Hox Valerie , Makrinioti Heidi , O′Neil Serena E. , Pala Gianni , Rudenko Michael , Santucci Annalisa , Seys Sven , Sokolowska Milena , Whitaker Paul , Heffler Enrico
Published: November 2011

To cite this article: Skevaki CL, Maggina P, Santos AF, Alves RR, Antolin‐Amerigo D, Borrego LM, Bretschneider I, Butiene I, Couto M, Fassio F, Gardner J, Xatzipsalti M,  Hovhannisyan L, Hox V, Makrinioti H, O’Neil SE, Pala G, Rudenko M, Santucci A, Seys S, Sokolowska M, Whitaker P, Heffler E. The 10th anniversary of the Junior Members and Affiliates of the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. Pediatric Allergy Immunology 2011: 22: 754–757.

This year is the 10th anniversary of the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) Junior Members and Affiliates (JMAs). The aim of this review is to highlight the work and activities of EAACI JMAs. To this end, we have summarized all the initiatives taken by JMAs during the last 10 yr. EAACI JMAs are currently a group of over 2380 clinicians and scientists under the age of 35 yr, who support the continuous education of the Academy’s younger members. For the past decade, JMAs enjoy a steadily increasing number of benefits such as free online access to the Academy’s journals, the possibility to apply for Fellowships and the Mentorship Program, travel grants to attend scientific meetings, and many more. In addition, JMAs have been involved in task forces, cooperation schemes with other scientific bodies, organization of JMA focused sessions during EAACI meetings, and participation in the activities of EAACI communication platforms. EAACI JMA activities represent an ideal example of recruiting, training, and educating young scientists in order for them to thrive as future experts in their field. This model may serve as a prototype for other scientific communities, several of which have already adapted similar policies.
Changes in carotenoid‐based plumage colour in relation to age in European Serins Serinus serinus
Authors: PAGANI‐NÚÑEZ EMILIO , SENAR JUAN CARLOS
Published: November 2011

Yearling birds generally display duller colours than adults. This may be due to selection favouring birds with more intensely coloured plumage or to an increase in colour after the first complete moult. Most research to date on the topic has been carried out on species with structural plumage coloration or with carotenoid‐based coloration that is produced by the unmodified deposition of pigments. However, no study has been carried out on species whose carotenoids are metabolically modified before deposition. In this study, we assess age‐related changes in the carotenoid‐based coloration of European Serins, a species that metabolically processes carotenoids before they can be deposited into feathers. Birds were captured over consecutive years and we carried out both cross‐sectional and longitudinal analysis. Adults had significantly greater values of lightness and chroma than yearling birds. However, there were no changes in plumage colour when analysing the same individuals captured in subsequent seasons. Plumage lightness and chroma of adult males after moult were related to body mass, suggesting a role of body condition on plumage coloration. Our results suggest that changes in plumage coloration with age in European Serins are due to a selection process that favours more intensely coloured individuals.
Good outcome is possible after months of refractory convulsive status epilepticus: Lesson learned
Authors: Standley Katherine , Abdulmassih Rasha , Benbadis Selim
Published: November 2011

Determining a prognosis for functional recovery after prolonged status epilepticus can be difficult. Prior case studies have shown that despite seizure control, functional outcomes are typically poor unless a reversible cause is identified. Herein we present a case of idiopathic status epilepticus with a surprisingly good outcome after a 125‐day drug‐induced coma.
Correlation between prenatal diagnosis by ultrasound and fetal autopsy findings in second‐trimester abortions
Authors: HAUERBERG LAURA , SKIBSTED LILLIAN , GRÆM NIELS , MAROUN LISA LETH
Published: November 2011

Abstract  We evaluated the correlation between prenatal diagnosis by ultrasound and autopsy findings, based on 52 second‐trimester pregnancies terminated due to fetal malformations or chromosome aberrations diagnosed at a gestational age of 12–25 weeks. In 24 pregnancies, there was full agreement between ultrasound and autopsy. In 23 fetuses, the main diagnosis was confirmed and additional or more specific findings were observed on autopsy. In five fetuses, there were considerable differences. Discrepancies between ultrasound and autopsy findings were mainly anomalies undetectable by ultrasound and thus expected; however, about one‐third of the discrepancies were not expected, representing findings that were ‘missed’ at ultrasound. The main ultrasound diagnoses were confirmed in the majority of the pregnancies, but the additional information obtained at autopsy in more than half of the fetuses clearly shows the value and benefit of postmortem fetal examination following termination of a pregnancy.
Ultrasound diagnosis of complete uterine inversion in a nulliparous woman
Authors: HU CHING‐FEN , LIN HAO
Published: November 2011

Non‐puerperal uterine inversion is an extremely rare event, and the diagnosis is made during vaginal examination or exploratory laparotomy. We report a case of complete uterine inversion which was diagnosed on abdominal ultrasound examination in a 50‐year‐old nulliparous virgin who was admitted to the hospital because of profuse vaginal bleeding, lower abdominal pain and anuria. The confirmatory diagnosis of complete uterine inversion secondary to a fundal fibroid was made at exploratory laparotomy. Total abdominal hysterectomy was performed, and the pathological examination confirmed its benign nature. Ultrasound evaluation is useful in the diagnosis of non‐puerperal uterine inversion.
Frequencies and ethnic distribution of ABO and Rh(D) blood groups in Mauritania: results of first nationwide study
Authors: Hamed C. T. , Bollahi M. A. , Abdelhamid I. , Med Mahmoud M. A. , BA B. , Ghaber S. , Habti N. , Houmeida A.
Published: November 2011

There is no data available on the ABO/Rh(D) frequencies in the Mauritanian population. We retrospectively analysed records of a 5‐year database that contained ABO/Rh phenotype and ethnic origin of 10 116 volunteers giving blood at the national blood transfusion centre to derive the frequencies of ABO/Rh(D) groups in the Mauritanian population. The two race categories in the country and their sub‐ethnic groups: the Moors (whites and black) and the black Africans (Pulhars, Soninkes and Wolof) were included in this study. Globally, group O had the highest frequency (49.10%) followed by A (28.28%), B (18.56%) and AB (4.05%). This order more common in North African populations was found in four of the five ethnic groups composing our population. Allele frequencies were, respectively, 70.20%, 17.74% and 12.04% giving the same order of O > A > B. We observed no significant variation in these frequencies between the different ethnic groups. Rhesus study showed that with a percentage of 94.23% Rh(D) positive is by far the most prevalent, while Rh(D) negative is present only in 5.77% of the total population. This frequency distribution supports the mixed‐race composition of the Mauritanian population.
Age‐specific recruitment and natality of California sea lions at San Miguel Island, California
Authors: Melin Sharon R. , Laake Jeffrey L. , DeLong Robert L. , Siniff Donald B.
Published: November 2011

Abstract

We conducted a 15 yr mark‐resight study of branded California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) at San Miguel Island, California, to estimate age‐specific recruitment and natality of the population. We used the Schwarz and Stobo model to estimate sighting, survival, recruitment, timing of births, abundance, and age‐specific natality from sighting histories of 1,276 parous females. The advantage of this approach was that the reproductive status of females did not have to be known for all females of reproductive age. Probability of recruitment into the reproductive population began at age 3 or 4, peaked between ages 5 and 7, and slowly declined. Age‐specific natality was similar for ages 4–16 but declined after age 17, suggesting that reproductive senescence occurs in older females. The average annual natality for parous females 4–16 yr of age was 0.77 (SE = 0.03); natality declined to 0.56 (SE = 0.10) for parous females 17–21 yr of age. Natality for both age classes was reduced during El Niño conditions by 24% and 34%, respectively. In addition to reducing natality, El Niño events may result in a delay of recruitment if females experience El Niño conditions before they turn 4 yr of age.
Self‐reported mental health of arsenicosis patients and its association with patients' perceptions and satisfactions of arsenicosis‐related issues: Evidence from an arsenic‐affected area of Bangladesh
Authors: Khandoker Aklimunnessa , Khan Md. Mobarak Hossain , Krämer Alexander , Mori Mitsuru
Published: November 2011

Introduction

Bangladesh is the most arsenic‐affected country in history. Thousands of arsenicosis patients suffer from multiple health sequelae and social problems such as discrimination, stigmatization, and family problems. The present study reports the mental health of arsenicosis patients and its associations with variables reflecting arsenicosis‐related perceptions and satisfactions.

Methods

We analysed the data of 171 arsenicosis patients collected in 2009. The mental health of patients was assessed by asking “How do you rate your overall mental health?” Each respondent was asked to select only one option: “excellent”, “very good”, “good”, “fair”, or “poor”. We dichotomized the mental health (outcome) variable as “poor” = 1 and “else” = 0. Independent variables reflected arsenicosis‐related perceptions and satisfactions. We used multivariable adjusted logistic regressions to model poor mental health.

Results

The rate of poor mental health was 28.1% among respondents, and was significantly higher among patients who perceived that arsenicosis is a permanent disease, society does not expect arsenicosis patients to be involved in social activities and poverty could increase the risk of arsenicosis. Similarly, the rate of poor mental health was remarkably higher among patients who reported dissatisfaction with personal income, support from family members, and support from Non‐Government Organizations/government health services. Almost all of the above‐mentioned variables remained significant in multivariable adjusted logistic regression models.

Discussion

More than 25% of arsenicosis patients have poor mental health. Variables reflecting arsenicosis‐related perceptions and satisfactions are strongly associated with poor mental health. Future strategies should consider these findings to improve the mental health arsenicosis patients.
Responsible conduct of research, globalization and academic psychiatry
Authors: Fiore Robin N. , Cushman Reid
Published: November 2011

Among the challenges facing academic psychiatry in Asia, and in low and middle income countries, is training future psychiatrist‐investigators in the responsible conduct of research. We describe efforts to achieve a global consensus on the elements of research integrity training, the 2010 Singapore Statement, as well as best practices we have identified in developing research ethics education networks in Latin America. The Singapore Statement is a first pass at consensus guidelines; some local articulation may be possible, even desirable. Research integrity must be part of the research training for all future investigators. Building research capacity includes research integrity capacity. Moreover, as research is collaborative, research integrity cannot be idiosyncratic.
Psychological therapy with Chinese patients
Authors: Feng Lei , Cao Yuping , Zhang Yalin , Wee Sin‐Tho , Kua Ee‐Heok
Published: November 2011

There is a growing interest about psychological therapy and training in Asian countries. However, there is a paucity of information on how psychological therapy is practiced in Asia. In this article, we discussed 3 methods of psychological therapy in the management of anxiety and depression in Chinese patients – mindfulness meditation, Chinese Taoist cognitive psychotherapy (CTCP) and brief integrative psychological therapy (BIPT). The CTCP for generalized anxiety disorders was a multi‐site randomized study conducted in China. It was found that CTCP reduced symptoms more slowly than anxiolytics but the effect of CTCP was still significant at 6‐month follow‐up. The mindfulness meditation study examined the outcome of a community training program on the management of mild anxiety. We found that overall mental well‐being and anxiety symptoms were significantly improved during the period of the training course. The BIPT project was a naturalistic study of elderly people with depression at an outpatient psychiatric clinic. Results from this study indicated that BIPT was as effective although the onset of recovery was slower compared with BIPT combined with an antidepressant. In the 3 methods discussed, cultural issues are explored with affirmation of cultural values and reinforcement of culturally sanctioned coping pattern. Brief therapy and integration are the psychotherapeutic zeitgeist of the 21st century in Asia and we hope that there will be more studies on psychological therapy from different Asian countries in the future.
The Missiological Significance of Latin American Protestantism
Authors: Escobar J. Samuel
Published: November 2011

Latin American Protestants were totally absent at Edinburgh 1910. This article explores different interpretations of why they were excluded, especially because Latin America was seen as a “Christian land” already, thus off limits for missionaries. The author discusses what has happened in the aftermath of this exclusion, and how and why evangelical Protestantism has grown significantly since then. Different, sometimes conflicting, interpretations are considered, and attention is given to how the relationship with Catholicism has evolved, and also the emergence of post‐denominational Christianity.
Vortical Gust Response of a Low-Solidity Vane Row Including Steady Loading and Dynamic Stall Effects
Authors: Henderson G. H. , Fleeter S.
Published: November 2011

The effects of high steady loading and separated flow on the unsteady aerodynamic response of turbomachine blade rows are experimentally investigated. This is accomplished utilizing a unique single-stage turbomachine research facility in which the flow is not generated by the blading but rather by an additional fan. Thus, for a particular stator incidence angle, the steady or mean stator aerodynamic performance were determined in a completely steady flow with no rotor and also with unsteady flow generated by a rotor composed of perforated plates at the same mean operating condition, thereby identifying the stator vane row dynamic stall conditions. The unsteady aerodynamic response of the very low-solidity stator vane row is then investigated over a range of incidence angle values, including attached and separated flows with dynamic stall.