bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dense‐map genome scan for dyslexia supports loci at 4q13, 16p12, 17q22; suggests novel locus at 7q36
Authors: Field L. L. , Shumansky K. , Ryan J. , Truong D. , Swiergala E. , Kaplan B. J.
Published: November 2012

Analysis of genetic linkage to dyslexia was performed using 133,165 array‐based SNPs genotyped in 718 persons from 101 dyslexia‐affected families. Results showed five linkage peaks with lod scores >2.3 (4q13.1, 7q36.1‐q36.2, 7q36.3, 16p12.1, and 17q22). Of these five regions, three have been previously implicated in dyslexia (4q13.1, 16p12.1, and 17q22), three have been implicated in attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD, which highly co‐occurs with dyslexia; 4q13.1, 7q36.3, 16p12.1) and four have been implicated in autism (a condition characterized by language deficits; 7q36.1‐q36.2, 7q36.3, 16p12.1, and 17q22). These results highlight the reproducibility of dyslexia linkage signals, even without formally significant lod scores, and suggest dyslexia predisposing genes with relatively major effects and locus heterogeneity. The largest lod score (2.80) occurred at 17q22 within the MSI2 gene, involved in neuronal stem cell lineage proliferation. Interestingly, the 4q13.1 linkage peak (lod 2.34) occurred immediately upstream of the LPHN3 gene, recently reported both linked and associated with ADHD. Separate analyses of larger pedigrees revealed lods >2.3 at 1–3 regions per family; one family showed strong linkage (lod 2.9) to a known dyslexia locus (18p11) not detected in our overall data, demonstrating the value of analyzing single large pedigrees. Association analysis identified no SNPs with genome‐wide significance, although a borderline significant SNP (P = 6 × 10–7) occurred at 5q35.1 near FGF18, involved in laminar positioning of cortical neurons during development. We conclude that dyslexia genes with relatively major effects exist, are detectable by linkage analysis despite genetic heterogeneity, and show substantial overlapping predisposition with ADHD and autism.
Variation in human β‐defensin genes: new insights from a multi‐population study
Authors: Mehlotra R. K. , Zimmerman P. A. , Weinberg A. , Jurevic R. J.
Published: November 2012

Human β‐defensin 2 (hBD‐2) and hBD‐3, encoded by DEFB4 and DEFB103A, respectively, have shown anti‐HIV activity, and both genes exhibit copy number variation (CNV). Although the role of hBD‐1, encoded by DEFB1, in HIV‐1 infection is less clear, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in DEFB1 may influence viral loads and disease progression. We examined the distribution of DEFB1 SNPs and DEFB4/103A CNV, and the relationship between DEFB1 SNPs and DEFB4/103A CNV using samples from two HIV/AIDS cohorts from the United States (n = 150) and five diverse populations from the Coriell Cell Repositories (n = 46). We determined the frequencies of 10 SNPs in DEFB1 using a post‐PCR, oligonucleotide ligation detection reaction–fluorescent microsphere assay, and CNV in DEFB4/103A by real‐time quantitative PCR. There were noticeable differences in the frequencies of DEFB1 SNP alleles and haplotypes among various racial/ethnic groups. The DEFB4/103A copy numbers varied from 2 to 8 (median, 4), and there was a significant difference between the copy numbers of self‐identified whites and blacks in the US cohorts (Mann–Whitney U‐test P = 0.04). A significant difference was observed in the distribution of DEFB4/103A CNV among DEFB1 ‐52G/A and ‐390T/A genotypes (Kruskal–Wallis P = 0.017 and 0.026, respectively), while not in the distribution of DEFB4/103A CNV among ‐52G/A_‐44C/G_‐20G/A diplotypes. These observations provide additional insights for further investigating the complex interplay between β‐defensin genetic polymorphisms and susceptibility to, or the progression or severity of, HIV infection/disease.
Interphase‐FISH screening for eight common rearrangements in pediatric B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Hutspardol S. , Pakakasama S. , Kanta K. , Nuntakarn L. , Anurathapan U. , Sirachainan N. , Songdej D. , Sawangpanich R. , Tiyasirichokchai R. , Rerkamnuaychoke B. , Hongeng S.
Published: November 2012

Introduction

This is the first pilot study to screen multiple common genetic aberrations in B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP‐ALL).

Methods

Thirty‐two children with BCP‐ALL were investigated for chromosomal rearrangements using interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Eight common translocations and rearrangements, including ETV6‐RUNX1, TCF3‐PBX1, BCR‐ABL1, ETV6, TCF3, MLL, IGH@, and PAX5, were tested for using dual‐color DNA probes.

Results

ETV6‐RUNX1 was the most frequent translocation detected in 11 children (34.4%). Two patients with BCR‐ABL1 (6.3%) and one with TCF3‐PBX1 (3.1%) translocations were also observed. Using break‐apart probes, 11 children (34.4%) had a positive FISH result for ETV6, two patients for IGH@ (6.3%), one patient for MLL (3.1%), and one patient for PAX5 rearrangements (3.1%). All patients with the ETV6‐RUNX1 fusion were also identified by split signals for ETV6. Other abnormalities, including extra copies and deletion of genes, were observed within the range of 3.1–34.4%. Cytogenetics analysis showed a single case each of BCR‐ABL1 fusion, MLL, and IGH@ rearrangements (3.1% each). ETV6‐RUNX1 fusion and ETV6 split‐apart rearrangements were not visible by cytogenetics. Likewise, one each of cases with TCF3‐PBX1 fusion and with PAX5 split signal seen by FISH was not visible by cytogenetics.

Conclusion

By using 8 FISH probes in conjunction cytogenetics for the detection of common aberrations, interphase FISH enhanced the detection of chromosomal rearrangements in children with BCP‐ALL.
Measuring the Integration of Immigrants: Critical notes from an Italian experience
Authors: Caselli Marco
Published: November 2012

This paper describes an instrument developed in Italy by the ISMU Foundation to measure the level of integration of immigrants present in the country. The instrument consists of an index based on data collected by means of a structured questionnaire. The paper first describes the technical characteristics of this instrument and the main results obtained from its first, experimental use with the administration of over 12,000 interviews in Italy. There follow some critical notes on the limits and potential of the application of synthetic indexes in the analysis of migratory processes, and particularly in study of the integration of immigrants.
EMIG 1.2: A Global Time Series of Annual Emigration Flows
Authors: Moses Jonathon W.
Published: November 2012

EMIG1.2 is a new, open‐source emigration database, based on over 6,500 observations covering 155 countries between 1850 and 2008, which can be used in both aggregate andTSCSanalyses. Using comparisons, I show thatEMIG1.2 complements and extends alternative databases. Still, I need to solicit help from area specialists to broaden and deepen its coverage. In its aggregate form, I observe two important trends: (1) the level of emigration today is lower than it was prior to the First World War (when weighted by the number of countries or people); and (2) global emigration rates have been falling since 1994.
Fuelling flight in a parasitic wasp: which energetic substrate to use?
Authors: AMAT ISABELLE , BESNARD SEBASTIEN , FORAY VINCENT , PELOSSE PERRINE , BERNSTEIN CARLOS , DESOUHANT EMMANUEL
Published: November 2012

1. Flight is an energy‐demanding behaviour in insects. In parasitic wasps, strategies of nutrient acquisition and allocation, resulting life‐history trade‐offs and relationships with foraging strategies and resource availability have received much attention. However, despite the ecological importance of dispersal between host and food patches, and the great impact energy diverted to flight should have on lifetime reproductive success, the eco‐physiology of flight in parasitoids is poorly understood.

2. The objective of this study is to (i) identify the energetic resources used to fuel flight, and (ii) relate nutrient type and rate of utilisation to selective pressures in terms of resource availability posed by the environment.

3. Using a flight mill and biochemical assays, we compared flight performance and nutrient dynamics during flight between two reproductive modes of the parasitoid Venturia canescens Gravenhorst, which is known to thrive preferentially in contrasted environments (i.e. natural vs. anthropogenic habitat), differing notably in host and food distribution.

4. Biochemical analyses of different nutrient types showed that glycogen is the flight fuel used by this species, yet no significant differences in its dynamics in flight were found between the two reproductive modes.

5. Results suggest that both glycogen quantity and flight performance are related to the diverging ecological conditions experienced by thelytokous and arrhenotokous strains.
Prey temporarily escape from predation in the presence of a second prey species
Authors: VAN MAANEN ROOS , MESSELINK GERBEN J. , VAN HOLSTEIN‐SAJ RENATA , SABELIS MAURICE W. , JANSSEN ARNE
Published: November 2012

1. Indirect interactions between populations of different prey species mediated by a shared predator population are known to affect prey dynamics.

2. Depending on the temporal and spatial scale, these indirect interactions may result in positive (apparent mutualism), neutral or negative effects (apparent competition) of the prey on each other's densities. Although there is ample evidence for the latter, evidence for apparent mutualism is scarce.

3. The effectiveness of using one species of predator for biological control of more than one pest species depends on the occurrence of such positive or negative effects.

4. We used an experimental system consisting of the two prey species Western flower thrips (Franklineilla occidentalis Pergande) and greenhouse whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum Westwood) and a shared predator, the phytoseiid mite Amblyseius swirskii Athias‐Henriot. We released all three species on the same plant and studied their dynamics and distribution along rows of plants.

5. We expected that the more mobile prey species (thrips) would escape temporarily in the presence of the other prey species (whitefly) by dispersing from plants with the predator. The predator was expected to disperse slower in the presence of two prey species because of the higher availability of food.

6. Evidence was found for slower dispersal of predators and short‐term escape of thrips from predation when whiteflies were present, thus confirming the occurrence of short‐term apparent mutualism.

7. The apparent mutualism resulted in a cascade to the first trophic level: a higher proportion of fruits was damaged by thrips in the presence of whiteflies.

8. We conclude that apparent mutualism can be an important phenomenon in population dynamics, and can significantly affect biological control of pest species that share a natural enemy.
Evaluation of image analysis methods used for quantification of particle angularity
Authors: Tafesse Solomon , Robison Fernlund Joanne M. , Sun Wenjuan , Bergholm Fredrik
Published: November 2012

Angularity is an important parameter in the characterization of particle morphology that is used to interpret the transport history of particles in sedimentary deposits. In the past, visual classification using silhouette charts was widely used to determine particle angularity, but this approach is subjective and time‐consuming. With advances in modern image analysis techniques and low‐cost software packages, it is possible to rapidly quantify particle angularity more objectively than using visual classification methods. This study re‐examines the performance of three existing image analysis methods and one new image analysis procedure, applied to six rock and sediment samples that were visually different in angularity. To facilitate comparison between the angularity results, measurements were reduced to rankings for each aggregate sample. These results show that the four image analysis methods rank the angularity of the samples differently, and that none rank the mean angularity index in the same order as the angularity ranking using visual classification. Therefore, further research is needed to develop an image analysis method that can quantify the angularity of sedimentary particles more precisely.
On Projection‐type Estimators of Multivariate Isotonic Functions
Authors: DAOUIA ABDELAATI , PARK BYEONG U.
Published: November 2012

Abstract.  Let M be an isotonic real‐valued function on a compact subset of and let be an unconstrained estimator of M. A feasible monotonizing technique is to take the largest (smallest) monotone function that lies below (above) the estimator or any convex combination of these two envelope estimators. When the process is asymptotically equicontinuous for some sequence rn→∞, we show that these projection‐type estimators are rn‐equivalent in probability to the original unrestricted estimator. Our first motivating application involves a monotone estimator of the conditional distribution function that has the distributional properties of the local linear regression estimator. Applications also include the estimation of econometric (probability‐weighted moment, quantile) and biometric (mean remaining lifetime) functions.
Die Zinslast des Bundes in der Schuldenkrise: Wie lukrativ ist der „sichere Hafen“?
Authors: Boysen-Hogrefe Jens
Published: November 2012

In the aftermath of the Great Recession and during the debt crisis in the euro area yields on German federal bonds have been exceptionally low. This analysis tries to calculate the profits that the federal government makes due to these low yields. The interest payments that are due to emissions of bonds and bills made between 2009 and 2012 are approximated and compared to several benchmark scenarios. Compared to the mean yields of the years 1999-2008 profits of the federal government are quite high (68 billion euros). Application of yield curve models show that most of these profits are due to the macroeconomic conditions in the euro area and to low central bank rates. To a much smaller extend these profits are due to flight into safety, which, however, has become more relevant recently.
Wissenschaftliches Fehlverhalten – ein Problem in der deutschen Volkswirtschaftslehre?
Authors: Necker Sarah
Published: November 2012

Systematic evidence on scientific misbehavior in economics is limited; so far no study explicitly deals with the attitudes and behavior of German economists. In this paper, results of a survey among the members of the Vereins für Socialpolitik conducted in autumn 2010 are reported. According to the results, serious misbehavior like the fabrication of data or pure plagiarism is rare. German economists reject such behavior unanimously, only a handful of respondents admit it. A problem rather consists in the low reporting of observed misbehavior. Some forms of questionable research practices are also of concern. For example, strategic behavior in the publication process is wide-spread, although the majority of the German economists find it unacceptable.
Föderalismus und Entwicklungsländer: Ist Dezentralisierung ein geeignetes Instrument der Entwicklungspolitik?
Authors: Leßmann Christian , Markwardt Gunther
Published: November 2012

This paper analyzes decentralization as an instrument of development policy. The positive experience of high developed countries with federal government structures has shifted the focus of international development organizations to decentralization. In particular, decentralization should promote economic prosperity and reduce corruption. This paper argues, however, that the particular institutional framework of developing countries should be taken into account. This study demonstrates that fiscal decentralization tends to harm the effectiveness of foreign aid, whereas forms of political decentralization are less problematic. Moreover, decentralization can increase corruption in less liberal countries. In light of these findings, national and international development agencies should carefully consider potential negative consequences from decentralization.
Risk Premium Shocks and the Zero Bound on Nominal Interest Rates
Authors: AMANO ROBERT , SHUKAYEV MALIK
Published: November 2012

Quantitative dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) models often admit that the zero bound on nominal interest rates does not constrain (optimal) monetary policy. Recent economic events, however, have reinforced the relevance of the zero bound. This paper sheds some light on this disconnect by studying a broad range of shocks within a standard DSGE model. In contrast to earlier studies, we find that risk premium shocks are key to building quantitative models where the zero bound is relevant for monetary policy design. Other commonly included shocks, such as productivity, government spending, and money demand shocks, are unable to push nominal rates close to zero.
Fiscal Positions and Government Bond Yields in OECD Countries
Authors: GRUBER JOSEPH W. , KAMIN STEVEN B.
Published: November 2012

We examine the effect of fiscal positions, both the level of debt and the fiscal balance, on long‐term government bond yields in the Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD). To control for the endogenity of fiscal positions to the business cycle we utilize forward projections of fiscal positions from the OECD's Economic Outlook. In a panel regression over the period from 1988 to 2007, we find a robust and significant effect of fiscal positions on long‐term bond yields. Our estimates imply that the marginal effect of the projected deterioration of fiscal positions adds about 60 basis points to U.S. bond yields by 2015, with effects on other G‐7 bond yields generally being smaller.
Regulatory Stringency and Policy Drivers: A Reassessment of Renewable Portfolio Standards
Authors: Carley Sanya , Miller Chris J.
Published: November 2012

Renewable energy policy has far‐reaching implications for national and international economic, environmental, and political sustainability, but thus far within the United States it has been almost entirely the province of state governments. This article examines the factors motivating state‐level policymakers to adopt different forms of a renewable portfolio standard (RPS), highlighting the distinction between degrees of policy stringency, ranging from entirely voluntary participation to rigorous and strictly enforced targets. In the process we introduce a new metric for assessing stringency, more precise and reliable than the various proxies used previously, and analyze its relationship to drivers of policy adoption. We find that policies of different stringencies are motivated by systematically different underlying factors. State‐level citizen political ideology is a significant predictor of RPS policy adoption, particularly for “voluntary” and “weak” policy designs. “Strong” policy designs, on the other hand, are best predicted by ideology at the government level, i.e., the degree of institutional liberalism. These findings may inform current implementation and program evaluation efforts, and potentially point the way toward more effective policy choices if and when an RPS moves forward on the national policy agenda, while the stringency metric central to this analysis can be of use to other policy scholars concerned with topics both within and beyond the realm of energy policy.
Career Subjectivities in U.S. Anthropology: Gender, Practice, and Resistance
Authors: Brondo Keri Vacanti , Bennett Linda A.
Published: November 2012

ABSTRACT  This article explores shifts in anthropological career opportunities and subjectivities in the United States since World War II. Survey and interview data reveal a lively discourse surrounding the changing job market in which practicing anthropology outside of the academy is often identified as a secondary occupational choice. We argue that the nonacademic practitioner's subjectivity is defined in contrast to (and by) academically based anthropologists and the long‐standing, but often implicit, hierarchy of universities and programs. Typically, the nonacademic “other” is further marginalized by his or her gender and racial‐ethnic minority status. However, we find evidence of a “sea change” within the discipline, led by nonuniversity‐based practitioners and a subset of departments (often with a commitment to applied anthropology), that produces and links practitioners with students and faculty in their programs.
Virtual Histology Analysis of Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaque: Plaque Composition at the Minimum Lumen Site and of the Entire Carotid Plaque
Authors: Tsurumi Arihito , Tsurumi Yuko , Hososhima Osamu , Matsubara Noriaki , Izumi Takashi , Miyachi Shigeru
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

Virtual Histology intravascular ultrasound (VH IVUS) volumetric analysis (analysis of the entire plaque responsible for stenosis) has been used for carotid plaque diagnosis. Knowing the carotid plaque characteristics by analyzing the plaque composition only at the minimum lumen site will facilitate plaque diagnosis using VH IVUS.

PURPOSE

To detect the relationship between the VH IVUS volumetric analysis of the entire plaque responsible for carotid artery stenosis and the VH IVUS cross‐section plaque analysis at the minimum lumen site.

METHODS

Forty‐eight atherosclerotic cervical carotid stenoses in 45 consecutive patients were included in the study. VH IVUS was obtained during the carotid artery stenting procedure.

RESULTS

Simple regression analysis revealed that the volumetric proportion of each plaque type correlated significantly with the corresponding plaque‐type area at the minimum lumen site. The adjusted coefficients of determination of the simple regression analyses were .782 (P < .001) for fibrous tissue, .741 (P < .001) for fibrofatty tissue, .864 (P < .001) for dense calcium, and .918 (P < .001) for necrotic core.

CONCLUSION

The plaque composition at the minimum lumen site represents the volumetric composition of the entire carotid plaque that causes atherosclerotic cervical carotid artery stenosis.
Cholestatic pruritus: a retrospective analysis on clinical characteristics and treatment response
Authors: Huesmann Mario , Huesmann Timo , Osada Nani , Phan Ngoc Quan , Kremer Andreas E. , Ständer Sonja
Published: November 2012

Background: Chronic cholestatic pruritus (ChP) is caused by various hepatobiliary disorders. This retrospective study describes the distribution of underlying diseases, clinical characteristics and treatment efficacy in a consecutive collective of patients with ChP.

Patients and methods: Extensive data from 60 patients with ChP (30 women, 30 men; mean age: 58.0 ± 17.0 years) were retrospectively statistically analyzed concerning demographic data, pruritus characteristics, and response to therapy.

Results: In this study population, 40.0% of the patients suffered from hepatitis B or C. Regarding the overall population, pruritus started in 50% of patients after diagnosis of the underlying hepatobiliary disorder. Only in patients with immune‐mediated liver diseases did pruritus more often occur before diagnosis (p < 0.05). Only 23.3% of the patients reported an initial palmoplantar pruritus. Along with other drugs, anticonvulsants proved to be an effective treatment regime.

Conclusions: In this study, viral pathogenesis was the most common cause of ChP. Other underlying diseases were represented to a lower extent in the total study population. Overall, the collected clinical parameters in each group were comparable. Thus, it was difficult to draw conclusions on the pathogenesis.
Competition, exogenous disturbances and senescence shape tree size distribution in tropical forest: evidence from tree mode of death in Central Amazonia
Authors: de Toledo José J. , Magnusson William E. , Castilho Carolina V.
Published: November 2012

Questions

What processes shape the size–density distribution of tropical trees? Are these processes affected by topographic position?

Location

Reserva Ducke, Central Amazonia, Manaus, Brazil.

Methods

We identified tree mode of death in a 5‐yr census interval (2003–2008) in 72 1‐ha permanent plots distributed over 64 km2, and calculated the proportion of standing and fallen modes of deaths across size classes and by topographic position. Lowess regression was used to identify the dominance of standing or fallen modes across tree sizes. We used this information to separate the size–density distribution of trees into two parts hypothetically shaped by different processes. We fitted several models and tested the metabolic theory's prediction that size–density distribution scales with stem diameter to the ‐2 power.

Results

Most dead trees <22 cm DBH and ≥48 cm DBH died standing, while trees between 22 and 48 cm DBH uprooted or snapped. Mode of death varied among topographic positions. On plateaux, standing death predominated across all tree size classes, while on slopes standing death dominated for small trees (<14 cm DBH), while fallen deaths dominated for intermediate to large trees (14 ≤ DBH <46 cm). In valleys, fallen modes of death dominated across all size classes. Scaling and negative exponential functions with a quadratic term fitted better the size–density distribution of all trees. The scaling function fitted better the distribution of small to intermediate‐sized trees while the negative exponential function and functions with a quadratic term showed the best fit to distribution of intermediate to large trees.

Conclusions

Competition is the major source of mortality for small‐ to intermediate‐sized trees, while exogenous disturbances and senescence predominate for intermediate to large trees. Modes of death, and presumed sources of mortality, change according to topographic position, but the shape of size–density distributions is not affected, demonstrating that unknown mechanisms with different processes not assumed in the metabolic theory can produce similar distributions for tropical trees. Understanding the mechanisms that determine tropical forest structure will allow us to predict forest dynamics under future climate change scenarios.
Evaluation of the Municipal Zoological Garden in Lodz, Poland, during the preparation of a development strategy
Authors: Zubkowicz R.
Published: November 2012

In 2008, the president of the city of Lodz appointed a committee to devise a four‐part development strategy for the Municipal Zoological Garden in Lodz. One of the committee's tasks was to diagnose the current condition of the Zoo with special attention being given to: (1) area development and utilization; (2) condition of the facility and infrastructure; (3) animal keeping and breeding conditions, such as welfare and quality of the exhibits, including their educational value and attractiveness to visitors; and (4) evaluation of the landscape and aesthetics. A system of five ordinal scales (from 1 to 5) was developed and used to evaluate the Zoo. Evaluation of all technical facilities and infrastructure was based on their technical condition and aesthetics. However, animal exhibits were additionally evaluated on their attractiveness to visitors, ability to meet animal welfare needs and educational value. The total grade attained for the whole Zoo was 2·5 points. Moreover, an on‐site inspection and analysis of information concerning the infrastructure allowed for a prediction of the area available for development and utilization, which amounted to 35%: the majority of the site (48%) is covered by vegetation. Additionally, it was established that most of the structures within the Zoo are obsolete and only 15% of the area of the Lodz Zoo contained attractive exhibits that should be preserved as a framework for further development.
Ex situ and in situ approaches, including assisted reproduction, for the conservation of native species of charr (Salmonidae) and whitefish (Coregonidae) in Scotland
Authors: Maitland P. S. , Lyle A. A.
Published: November 2012

Measures to conserve threatened populations of three species of fish in Scotland, Arctic charr Salvelinus alpinus (L.), Powan Coregonus lavaretus (L.) and Vendace Coregonus albula (L.), are described. The methods employed include in situ research, management and legislation, and successful ex situ translocation to new refuge sites.
Why separate the regulatory regimes applicable to food safety and product safety?
Authors: Hyde Richard
Published: November 2012

Why is food regulated separately from, and differently to, other consumer products? This paper attempts to examine the different regimes for the regulation of food and general product safety, and examines the economic, social and cultural reasons for the separation. Finally, the paper considers whether the separate nature of the regimes is necessary, or whether food should be regulated within a ‘product safety’ framework.
Utilization of fast qPCR techniques to detect the amphibian chytrid fungus: a cheaper and more efficient alternative method
Authors: Kerby Jacob L. , Schieffer Alicia , Brown Jennifer R. , Whitfield Steven
Published: November 2012

A pathogen of great significance to amphibian populations is the chytrid fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). It has been demonstrated as causing recent epizootics in wild populations and is also widely found in captive animals. It is listed as a notifiable disease within the pet, bait and food trade because of its risk of introduction into wild populations. Due to this status, there has been much emphasis on reliably identifying and quantifying the pathogens in amphibians. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) has served as the recent standard for identifying this pathogen's presence. Newer technologies have greatly improved these reactions enabling researchers to use smaller volumes and run the reactions in less time. These ‘fast’ qPCR chemistries are gaining popularity because the reduced volumes required to run the reactions can save funding resources and reduce the time to data acquisition.

In this study, we compare the results from differing reaction methodologies using the same DNA extracts from pathogens collected from wild sampled amphibians. In addition to comparing the standard methodology and fast methodology for both pathogens, we also conducted a reduced volume methodology using the standard TaqMan chemistry for Bd. Estimated pathogen loads from 114 field swab samples were compared among methodologies.

We found that for Bd, all three methodologies produced similar results for prevalence (presence/absence) estimates. In terms of estimating pathogen loads in the samples, both the standard and fast methodologies produced comparable estimates but the reduced volume methodology exhibited significantly lower values.

Therefore, it appears that the fast methodology is adequate for use with Bd, and potentially several other wildlife pathogens, in estimating both prevalence and quantity, but the reduced volume methodology is inadequate and not recommended for use in quantifying samples.
Association of Arterial Stiffness With Obesity in Australian Women: A Pilot Study
Authors: Pal Sebely , Radavelli‐Bagatini Simone
Published: November 2012

This study investigated the arterial stiffness status in overweight/obese Australian women compared with their lean counterparts. Twenty‐six Caucasian women were designated into one of two groups: overweight/obese (body mass index [BMI] 25–34.9 kg/m2[ n=12]) and lean (BMI 18.5–24.9 kg/m2 [n=14]) groups. Participants were assessed for clinical, anthropometric, metabolic, and augmentation index (AIx) measurements. Age was similar between groups (P=.482). BMI was significantly higher in overweight/obese compared with lean participants (30.26±1.09 vs 21.62±0.52 kg/m2, P=.001) as well as the percentage of body fat (40.60±2.43 vs 21.57±1.13, P=.001), waist circumference (91.47±2.77 vs 70.67±1.60, P=.001), and waist/hip ratio (0.81±0.04 vs 0.71±0.03, P=.036). Overweight/obese group showed higher total cholesterol, triglyceride, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and fasting glucose levels compared with the lean group (all P<.05). Both systolic (122.92±3.18 mm Hg vs 108.14±2.42 mm Hg, P=.001) and diastolic (83.58±2.43 mm Hg vs 72.43±1.29 mm Hg, P=.0001) blood pressures, as well as AIx (50.08±4.7 vs 120.79±2.17, P=.001) were significantly higher in the overweight/obese group compared with the lean group. AIx was positively associated with measurements of body composition (P<.05), triglycerides (r=0.361, P=.035) and glucose levels (r=0.371, P=.031), and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (r=0.793 and r=0.718, respectively; P=.0001). This data suggests that arterial stiffness is associated with obesity, along with other metabolic abnormalities in Australian women. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2012;00:00–00.©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Locomotory abilities and habitat of the Cretaceous bird Gansus yumenensis inferred from limb length proportions
Authors: Nudds R. L. , Atterholt J. , Wang X. , You H.‐L. , Dyke G. J.
Published: November 2012

The relative length proportions of the three bony elements of the pelvic (femur, tibiotarsus and tarsometatarsus) and pectoral (humerus, ulna and manus) limbs of the early Cretaceous bird Gansus yumenensis, a well‐represented basal ornithuromorph from China, are investigated and compared to those of extant taxa. Ternary plots show that the pectoral limb length proportions of Gansus are most similar to Apodiformes (swifts and hummingbirds), which plot away from all other extant birds. In contrast, the pelvic limb length proportions of Gansus fall within the extant bird cluster and show similarities with the neornithine families Podicipedidae (grebes), Diomedeidae (albatross) and Phalacrocoracidae (cormorants). Although it does have some of the pelvic limb features of grebes and cormorants, the femur of Gansus is more gracile and is thus more consistent with an albatross‐like shallow‐diving mode of life than a strong foot‐propelled diving movement pattern. The position of Gansus in pectoral limb ternary morphospace is largely due to its elongated manus. In contrast to apodiformes, where the humerus and ulna are short and robust, an adaptation, which provides a stiff wing for their demanding fast agile and hovering flight (respectively), the wing‐bones of Gansus are slender, indicating a less vigorous flapping flight style. The suite of characters exhibited by Gansus mean it is difficult to completely interpret its likely ecology. Nevertheless, our analyses suggest that it is probable that this bird was both volant and capable of diving to some degree using either foot‐propelled or, perhaps, both its wings and its feet for underwater locomotion.
EPG technique as a tool to reveal host plant acceptance by xylem sap‐feeding insects
Authors: Sandanayaka W. R. M. , Jia Y. , Charles J. G.
Published: November 2012

The discovery of a new exotic insect herbivore triggers responses from biosecurity agencies, one of which is the decision of whether or not to attempt eradication. Rapid determination of the host range of the new invader is necessary, but when sap‐sucking insects are first collected from plants, the lack of visible signs of feeding damage makes it difficult to determine their host status. We investigated the Electrical Penetration Graph (EPG‐DC) technique as tool to assess host range of a xylem sap‐feeding invader, using Carystoterpa fingens (Hemiptera: Aphrophoridae), a New Zealand endemic xylem feeder, as a model insect. Real‐time probing and feeding events over a 12‐h recording period were compared for adult C. fingens on 18 plant species. Hebe azure, a known host, was designated the ‘reference plant species’ against which events on all other plants were statistically compared. EPG waveforms were categorized on their amplitude, frequency, voltage and electrical origin, and six parameters (time taken to first probe, time to first xylem ingestion from first probe, total probing time, number of xylem‐ingesting events, duration of the longest xylem‐ingesting event and total xylem ingestion time) were measured. The total xylem ingestion period (i.e. the actual feeding period) on each plant species expressed as a percentage of total probing time was considered the best parameter for comparing the host status of plants with H. azure. Although the EPG data overestimated the actual host range of C. fingens, we consider that they provided a reasonable first guide to the potential host status of the unknown plants, and so might usefully be used to rapidly assess whether a plant from which a new invader was collected was a host, or whether the association was merely incidental.
Three New Loxophyllum Species (Ciliophora: Pleurostomatida) from China with a Brief Review of the Marine and Brackish Loxophyllum Species
Authors: Pan Hongbo , Gao Feng , Lin Xiaofeng , Warren Alan , Song Weibo
Published: November 2012

Recent studies indicate that there is a high diversity of pleurostomatid ciliates in the coastal waters of China. Here, three new congeners of Loxophyllum, L. caudatum sp. n., L. rugosum sp. n., and L. chinense sp. n., are described following observations of live cells and protargol‐impregnated specimens. All three species usually have two macronuclear nodules and prominent warts along the dorsal margin formed by clustered extrusomes. In addition, L. caudatum sp. n. is characterized by its long conspicuous tail, dot‐like cortical granules, 4 or 5 left and 9 or 10 right kineties, and a single subterminal contractile vacuole. Loxophyllum rugosum sp. n. is distinguished by possessing three prominent ridges on the left side, 7–11 right and 5–7 left kineties. Loxophyllum chinense sp. n. is characterized by having several contractile vacuoles distributed along the ventral margin, 13–18 right and 6–8 left kineties. The small subunit ribosomal DNA (SSU rDNA) sequence similarities among six congeners range from 96.46% to 99.94%. Phylogenetic trees based on the SSU rDNA sequences indicate that all Loxophyllum spp. form a well‐supported monophyletic group. A brief review of the marine and brackish Loxophyllum species is supplied and one new combination, Litonotus multiplicatus (Kahl 1931) comb. n. (basionym Loxophyllum multiplicatum Kahl 1931), and one new name, Litonotus dragescoi nom. n. (basionym L. fasciolatus Dragesco 1966), are suggested.
Genetics of inflammatory bowel diseases: A comparison between Western and Eastern perspectives
Authors: Cheon Jae Hee
Published: November 2012

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic relapsing intestinal inflammatory disorder with unidentified causes. Currently, studies indicate that IBD results from a complex interplay between various genetic and environmental factors that produce intestinal inflammation. However, these factors may differ for Asians and Caucasians. Thus, differences in epidemiology, genetic variants, and clinical phenotypes of IBD have been observed between the two populations. Understanding the discrepancies between data from populations with different genetic backgrounds and environmental factors may reveal fundamental aspects of IBD pathogenesis. Accordingly, this review will summarize the current knowledge of IBD genetics studied in Asian countries and compare it with that from Western countries, with special focus on innate bacterial sensing, autophagy, and the interleukin‐23 receptor‐T helper cell 17 pathway. The epigenetic nature of IBD pathogenesis as well as the pharmacogenetics related to the use of immunomodulators will also be briefly covered.
A pooled analysis of diffusion‐weighted imaging in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic liver diseases
Authors: Wu Lian‐Ming , Xu Jian‐Rong , Lu Qing , Hua Jia , Chen Jie , Hu Jiani
Published: November 2012

Background and Aim

The purpose of this study was to perform a meta‐analysis of all available studies of the diagnostic performance of diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) in the detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic liver disease.

Methods

Databases including MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched for relevant original articles published from January 2000 to April 2012. Pooled estimation and subgroup analysis data were obtained by statistical analysis.

Results

Across the nine studies (476 patients), DWI sensitivity was 81% (95%CI: 67%–90%), and specificity was 89% (95% CI: 76%–95%). Overall, positive likelihood ratio was 7.11 (95%CI: 3.50, 14.48), negative likelihood ratio was 0.21 (95%CI: 0.12–0.37), and the diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) was 33.48 (95%CI: 16.67–67.25). The area under the curve of the summary receiver operator characteristic (ROC) was 0.92 (95% CI:0.89–0.94). In studies in which both DWI and conventional contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (CE‐MRI) were performed, the comparison of DWI performance with that of conventional CE‐MRI suggested no major differences against these two methods (P > 0.05). DWI combined CE‐MRI had higher pooled sensitivity than DWI alone (93% vs 73%) (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

DWI has good diagnostic performance in the detection of HCC in patients with chronic liver disease and equivalent to conventional CE‐MRI. Combination of CE‐MRI and DWI can improve the diagnostic accuracy of MRI. Further larger prospective studies are still needed to establish its value for detecting HCC in patients with chronic liver disease.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection of large gastrointestinal stromal tumors in the esophagus and stomach
Authors: He Zhankun , Sun Chao , Zheng Zhongqing , Yu Qingxiang , Wang Tao , Chen Xin , Cao Hailong , Liu Wentian , Wang Bangmao
Published: November 2012

Background and Aim

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), the most common mesenchymal tumors of the digestive tract with potential for malignant transformation, are mainly treated by open surgery or laparoscopic resection. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy, safety, and feasibility of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for large‐size (2–5 cm) GISTs in the esophagus and stomach.

Methods

A total of 31 patients with large‐size GISTs in the esophagus (6 patients) and stomach (25 patients) underwent ESD between September 2008 and December 2011. Demographics, clinical data, therapeutic outcomes, complications, pathological characteristics, risk classification, and follow‐up outcomes were recorded.

Results

ESD was successfully performed in 31 patients at age of 59.06 ± 7.23 years (range: 46–74). The mean time of the procedure was 70.16 ± 16.25 min (range: 40–105). Perforation for 2–10 mm occurred in six patients (19.35%) and was endoscopically repaired with clips or nylon bands, with no conversions to open surgery. Intraoperative bleeding occurred in three patients (9.68%) and was corrected with argon plasma coagulation or hot biopsy forceps. No mortalities occurred. The mean size of the resected tumors was 2.70 ± 0.72 cm (range: 2.0–5.0). Out of the 31 patients, 24 (77.42%) were at very low risk and 7 (22.58%) were at low risk. Positive rate of CD117, DOG‐1, and CD34 were 83.87%, 12.90%, and 100%, respectively. A follow up for 14.29 ± 8.99 months (range: 3–39) showed no recurrence or metastasis.

Conclusions

ESD appears to be an effective, safe, and feasible treatment for large‐size GISTs in the esophagus and stomach.
Hepatocellular carcinoma in uremic patients: Is there evidence for an increased risk of mortality?
Authors: Lee Yun‐Hsuan , Hsu Chia‐Yang , Hsia Cheng‐Yuan , Huang Yi‐Hsiang , Su Chien‐Wei , Lin Han‐Chieh , Lee Rheun‐Chuan , Chiou Yi‐You , Huo Teh‐Ia
Published: November 2012

Background and Aim

The clinical aspects of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) undergoing maintenance dialysis are largely unknown. We aimed to investigate the long‐term survival and prognostic determinants of dialysis patients with HCC.

Methods

A total of 2502 HCC patients, including 30 dialysis patients and 90 age, sex, and treatment‐matched controls were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Dialysis patients more often had dual viral hepatitis B and C, lower serum α‐fetoprotein level, worse performance status, higher model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) score than non‐dialysis patients and matched controls (P all < 0.05). There was no significant difference in long‐term survival between dialysis and non‐dialysis patients and matched controls (P = 0.684 and 0.373, respectively). In the Cox proportional hazards model, duration of dialysis < 40 months (hazard ratio [HR]: 6.67, P = 0.019) and ascites (HR: 5.275, P = 0.019) were independent predictors of poor prognosis for dialysis patients with HCC. Survival analysis disclosed that the Child‐Turcotte‐Pugh (CTP) provided a better prognostic ability than the MELD system. Among the four currently used staging systems, the Japan Integrated Scoring (JIS) system was a more accurate prognostic model for dialysis patients; a JIS score ≥ 2 significantly predicted a worse survival (P = 0.024).

Conclusions

Patients with HCC undergoing maintenance dialysis do not have a worse long‐term survival. A longer duration of dialysis and absence of ascites formation are associated with a better outcome in dialysis patients. The CTP classification is a more feasible prognostic marker to indicate the severity of cirrhosis, and the JIS system may be a better staging model for outcome prediction.
Application of three‐dimensional reconstruction and visible simulation technique in reoperation of hepatolithiasis
Authors: Xie Aowen , Fang Chihua , Huang Yanpeng , Fan Yinfang , Pan Jiahui , Peng Fengping
Published: November 2012

Background and Aim

Hepatolithiasis often requires repeated operations in East Asia. This study aims to evaluate the clinical application of three‐dimensional reconstruction and visible simulation techniques for repeated operation in patients with intrahepatic calculi.

Methods

A medical image processing system was used for modeling, segmentation, and three‐dimensional reconstruction of intrahepatic stones in 20 patients, consisting of 7 males and 13 females who were subjected to repeated surgical treatment from May 2010 to November 2011. The three‐dimensional models of the liver and bile ducts in a standard template library format were then processed by the FreeForm Modeling System. Accurate digital information about the bile duct system, lesions, calculi distribution, and surrounding organs obtained from all directions, multiple angles, and multistrata were used to decide the rational surgical modality. Virtual operations were then performed on the models with virtual surgical instruments in the FreeForm Modeling System. The results were used to guide and were compared with the real surgical procedures performed.

Results

The surgical outcomes of all patients in this study were satisfactory. Three‐dimensionally reconstructed models provided clear and strong relief perception and a user‐friendly interface. Visible simulation surgery performed based on three‐dimensionally reconstructed models led to an optimal operation plan that had great resemblance to the actual surgeries for cases with intrahepatic stones.

Conclusions

Three‐dimensional reconstruction and visible simulation techniques had unique value in optimizing repeated operation plans and in guiding actual surgical procedures for patients with recurrent intrahepatic calculi.