bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aspects of marine geoscience: a review and thoughts on potential for observing active processes and progress through collaboration between the ocean sciences
Authors: Mitchell Neil C.
Published: November 2012

Much progress has been made in the UK in characterizing the internal structures of major physiographic features in the oceans and in developing understanding of the geological processes that have created or shaped them. UK researchers have authored articles of high impact in all areas described here. In contrast to terrestrial geoscience, however, there have been few instrumented observations made of active processes by UK scientists. This is an area that could be developed over the next decades in the UK. Research on active processes has the potential ability to engage the wider public: Some active processes present significant geo-hazards to populations and offshore infrastructure that require monitoring and there could be commercial applications of technological developments needed for science. Some of the suggestions could involve studies in shallow coastal waters where ship costs are much reduced, addressing tighter funding constraints over the near term. The possibilities of measuring aspects of volcanic eruptions, flowing lava, turbidity currents and mass movements (landslides) are discussed. A further area of potential development is in greater collaboration between the ocean sciences. For example, it is well known in terrestrial geomorphology that biological agents are important in modulating erosion and the transport of sediments, ultimately affecting the shape of the Earth's surface in various ways. The analogous effect of biology on large-scale geomorphology in the oceans is also known but remains poorly quantified. Physical oceanographic models are becoming increasingly accurate and could be used to study further the patterns of erosion, particle transport and deposition in the oceans. Marine geological and geophysical data could in turn be useful for further verification of such models. Adapting them to conditions of past oceans could address the shorter-period movements, such as due to internal waves and tides, which have been barely addressed in palaeoceanography.
Oceanographers' contribution to climate modelling and prediction: progress to date and a future perspective
Authors: Shuckburgh Emily F.
Published: November 2012

The ocean plays an essential role in determining aspects of the climate through its influence on coupled processes involving the atmosphere, cyrosphere and biogeochemistry, including budgets of heat and carbon dioxide and sea-level rise. Here, the key developments in ocean modelling over the past 20 years are reviewed and the prospects for the next 20 years are outlined, considering a hierarchy of idealized, conceptual and realistic modelling frameworks. It is emphasized that any long-term modelling strategy needs to be underpinned and complemented by fundamental theoretical and observational research activities. The need to be aware of the societal and technological drivers that will shape future research directions is also articulated.
Decapitation in Suicidal Hanging – Vital Reaction Patterns
Authors: Hejna Petr , Bohnert Michael
Published: November 2012

Complete or incomplete decapitation as a consequence of suicidal hanging is very rare, few cases having been reported in the worldwide literature. Posthanging decapitation is typically related to a drop of several meters. Three cases of complete decapitation and one case of incomplete decapitation by suicidal hanging are reported with particular emphasis on internal findings and vital reaction patterns. Personal, circumstantial, autopsy, and toxicological data were analyzed to define basic characteristics of such extreme injuries. The crucial factor for the state of decapitation itself is the kinetic energy of the falling body, the strength of the human neck tissue, and the diameter and elasticity of the used ligature. Results of our case study suggest Simon's hemorrhage and air embolism as useful autopsy findings in posthanging beheading cases. Simon's hemorrhage was demonstrated in three cases of four. The test for air embolism was positive in all four cases.
Forensic Identification of Seal Oils Using Lipid Profiles and Statistical Models
Authors: Broadwater Margaret H. , Seaborn Gloria T. , Schwacke John H.
Published: November 2012

Seal blubber oils are used as a source of omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in Canada but prohibited in the United States and (FA) European Union. Thus, a reliable method is needed to identify oils originating from seals versus fish. Two lipid profiling methods, fatty acid analysis using gas chromatography and triacylglycerol (TAG) analysis using liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, were applied with statistical models to discriminate commercial oils and blubber samples harvested from marine fish and seals. Significant differences were observed among FA profiles, and seal samples differed from each of the fish oils (p ≤ 0.001). FA and TAG profiles were used to discriminate sample groups using a random forest classifier; all samples were classified correctly as seals versus fish using both methods. We propose a two‐step method for the accurate identification of seal oils, with preliminary identification based on FA profile analysis and confirmation with TAG profiles.
Distribution of antibiotic resistance genes in glacier environments
Authors: Segawa Takahiro , Takeuchi Nozomu , Rivera Andres , Yamada Akinori , Yoshimura Yoshitaka , Barcaza Gonzalo , Shinbori Kunio , Motoyama Hideaki , Kohshima Shiro , Ushida Kazunari
Published: November 2012

Antibiotic resistance genes are biologically transmitted from microorganism to microorganism in particular micro‐environments where dense microbial communities are often exposed to an intensive use of antibiotics, such as intestinal microflora, and the soil microflora of agricultural fields. However, recent studies have detected antibiotic‐resistant bacteria and/or antibiotic resistance genes in the natural environment geographically isolated from such areas. Here we sought to examine the prevalence of antibiotic resistance genes in 54 snow and ice samples collected from the Arctic, Antarctic, Central Asia, North and South America and Africa, to evaluate the level of these genes in environments supposedly not affected by anthropogenic factors. We observed a widespread distribution of antibiotic resistance genes in samples from various glaciers in Central Asia, North and South America, Greenland and Africa. In contrast, Antarctic glaciers were virtually free from these genes. Antibiotic resistance genes, of both clinical (i.e. aac(3), blaIMP) and agricultural (i.e. strA and tetW) origin, were detected. Our results show regional geographical distribution of antibiotic resistance genes, with the most plausible modes of transmission through airborne bacteria and migrating birds.
PdMLE1, a specific and active transposon acts as a promoter and confers Penicillium digitatum with DMI resistance
Authors: Sun Xuepeng , Xu Qian , Ruan Ruoxin , Zhang Tianyuan , Zhu Congyi , Li Hongye
Published: November 2012

Previously, we found a 199 bp element which inserted into the promoter of PdCYP51B gene in Penicillium digitatum, was associated with the overexpression of this gene and DMI fungicides resistance. However, the mechanism how this 199 bp element upregulate the expression of downstream gene was completely unknown. In the current study, we confirmed that this 199 bp element was a MITE‐like element, designated as PdMLE1. blast searching and Southern blot showed that this 199 bp element was unique to P. digitatum. Genome‐wide localization of PdMLE1 showed that it preferentially inserted into A + T rich regions, and several copies localized at the coding or regulation regions of genes were found. Penicillium digitatum mutant harbouring the PdMLE1 fused GFP gene showed the strong green fluorescence, indicating the powerful promoter activity of PdMLE1. By promoter deletion method, we identified a 20 bp core sequence in PdMLE1 which was associated with its promoter activity. In addition, we also limited the core element of PdCYP51B promoter to a 368 bp region. Collectively, we proposed a model that PdMLE1 acted as a powerful promoter and most likely recruited the transcription factor(s), therefore led to the overexpression of PdCYP51B gene and conferred P. digitatum with DMI resistance. This is the first regulation model of transposon resulted fungicide resistance proved in plant pathogens.
Modulation of α5 Subunit‐Containing GABAA Receptors Alters Alcohol Drinking by Rhesus Monkeys
Authors: Rüedi‐Bettschen Daniela , Rowlett James K. , Rallapalli Sundari , Clayton Terry , Cook James M. , Platt Donna M.
Published: November 2012

Background

Alcohol's ability to potentiate the activity of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) at GABAA receptors has been implicated as a key mechanism underlying the behavioral effects of alcohol. The complex molecular biology of these receptors raises the possibility that particular receptor subtypes may play unique roles in alcohol's abuse‐related effects and that subtype‐selective ligands with therapeutic specificity against alcohol might be developed. This study evaluated the capacity of α5GABAA receptor ligands to alter selectively the reinforcing effects of alcohol.

Methods

Two groups of rhesus monkeys were trained to orally self‐administer alcohol or sucrose under fixed‐ratio schedules and limited daily access conditions. In addition, following daily self‐administration sessions, the behavior of each monkey was scored for both species‐typical and drug‐induced behaviors.

Results

Concentrations of 1 to 6% alcohol maintained self‐administration above water levels, engendered pharmacologically relevant blood alcohol levels ranging from 90 to 160 mg/dl, and produced changes in behavior typical of alcohol intoxication. Concentrations of 0.3 to 3% sucrose also reliably maintained self‐administration. The α5GABAA receptor agonist QH‐ii‐066 enhanced and the α5GABAA receptor inverse agonist L‐655,708 inhibited alcohol, but not sucrose drinking. The changes in alcohol drinking could be reversed with the α5GABAA receptor antagonist XLi‐093. However, L‐655,708 increased yawning in both alcohol and sucrose drinkers, possibly indicative of an anxiogenic effect.

Conclusions

These findings suggest a prominent and specific role for α5GABAA receptor mechanisms in the reinforcing effects of alcohol. Moreover, these results suggest that α5GABAA receptors may represent a novel pharmacological target for the development of medications to reduce drinking. Of ligands modulating this receptor, α5GABAA receptor inverse agonists may hold the most promise as alcohol pharmacotherapies.
Commentary on Marczinski and Colleagues: Mixing an Energy Drink with an Alcoholic Beverage Increases Motivation for More Alcohol in College Students
Authors: Griffin William C.
Published: November 2012

Background

This commentary discusses the study by Marczinski and colleagues in which they used an alcohol priming procedure to examine the effects of an alcohol/energy drink mixture on the priming effect.

Methods

The significance of the main findings from this study and new avenues of investigation are discussed.

Results

Using an alcohol priming paradigm, Marczinski and colleagues report that an alcohol/energy drink combination (AmED) prolongs the desire‐to‐drink rating compared with alcohol alone.

Conclusions

The results of this laboratory study add to the growing body of literature that the intoxicating effects of AmED are different than the intoxication by alcohol alone.
Differences in onset of disease and severity of psychopathology between toxoplasmosis‐related and toxoplasmosis‐unrelated schizophrenia
Authors: Holub D. , Flegr J. , Dragomirecká E. , Rodriguez M. , Preiss M. , Novák T. , Čermák J. , Horáček J. , Kodym P. , Libiger J. , Höschl C. , Motlová L. B.
Published: November 2012

Objective

Toxoplasmosis is a lifelong parasitic disease that appears to be associated to schizophrenia. However, no distinguishing attributes in Toxoplasma‐infected schizophrenia patients have been described as yet.

Method

We searched for differences in symptom profile, cognitive performance and treatment response between 194 Toxoplasma‐free and 57 (22.7%) Toxoplasma‐infected schizophrenia patients treated in Prague Psychiatric Centre between 2000 and 2010.

Results

Infected and non‐infected patients differed in severity of symptoms (P = 0.032) measured with the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS). Infected patients scored higher in positive subscale of PANSS, but not in the general and negative subscales. Infected men scored higher also in Total PANSS score, and negative, reality distortion, disorganisation and cognitive scores. Higher PANSS scores of positive, negative and disorganised psychopathology were associated with the lower titres of anti‐Toxoplasma antibodies suggesting that psychopathology deteriorates with duration of parasitic infection. Infected patients remained about 33 days longer in hospital during their last admission than uninfected ones (P = 0.003). Schizophrenia started approximately 1 year earlier in infected men and about 3 years later in infected women, no such difference was observed in uninfected subjects.

Conclusion

Latent toxoplasmosis in schizophrenia may lead to more severe positive psychopathology and perhaps less favourable course of schizophrenia.
Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in a patient with severe burns
Authors: Porter J. R. S. , Handy J. , Yarranton H. , Gurney S.
Published: November 2012

Recently, increasing attention has been drawn to haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis as a potentially under‐diagnosed condition in critically ill patients with severe sepsis. It is thought to be caused by a highly stimulated, but ineffective, immune system. We report the case of a patient suffering from major burns who, despite extensive investigations showing the absence of concurrent sepsis or infection, developed haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis refractory to treatment. We believe that this is the first report suggestive of haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis triggered by a burns injury.
Efficacy and safety of ribavirin plus pegylated interferon alfa in geriatric patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Hu C.‐C. , Lin C.‐L. , Kuo Y.‐L. , Chien C.‐H. , Chen S.‐W. , Yen C.‐L. , Lin C.‐Y. , Chien R.‐N.
Published: November 2012

Background

Limited data are available on the efficacy and safety of antiviral therapy in geriatric patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of pegylated interferon (pegIFN) plus ribavirin (RBV) therapy in geriatric HCV‐infected patients.

Methods

Ninety‐one geriatric patients (age ≥65 years; the elderly group) with HCV infection and 91 gender‐ and HCV genotype‐matched middle‐aged patients (age 50–64 years; the younger group) were assigned to receive weekly pegIFN injection plus weight‐based oral RBV for 24 weeks. The on‐ and off‐treatment virological responses were evaluated for treatment efficacy.

Results

In intention‐to‐treat analysis, the sustained virological response (SVR) rate was substantially decreased in the elderly patients (elderly group vs. younger group, 40.7% vs. 61.5%, respectively; P = 0.005). The SVR rate was significantly lower in geriatric patients than in middle‐aged patients with HCV genotype non‐1 (54.3% vs. 82.9%; P = 0.01), but the difference was not significant with HCV genotype 1 (32.1% vs. 48.2%; P = 0.083). Furthermore, the older patients infected with HCV genotype non‐1 who achieved a rapid virological response had a similar SVR rate to that of the younger patients. The withdrawal rate was 13.2% in the elderly group and 7.7% in the younger group.

Conclusions

Compared with middle‐aged patients, the therapeutic efficacy of pegylated interferon plus ribavirin therapy is lower in hepatitis C virus‐infected geriatric patients with an acceptable withdrawal rate. Considering prolonged lifespan in geriatric patients, we recommend treating geriatric hepatitis C virus‐infected patients who have significant hepatic fibrosis and no other health problems.
Benzodiazepine dependence and its treatment with low dose flumazenil
Authors: Hood Sean David , Norman Amanda , Hince Dana Adelle , Melichar Jan Krzysztof , Hulse Gary Kenneth
Published: November 2012

Globally benzodiazepines remain one of the most prescribed medication groups, especially in the primary care setting. With such high levels of prescribing it is not surprising that benzodiazepine dependence is common, cutting across all socioeconomic levels. Despite recognition of the potential for the development of iatrogenic dependence and the lack of any effective treatment, benzodiazepines continue to be widely prescribed in general practice. Conventional dependence management, benzodiazepine tapering, is commonly a protracted process over several weeks or months. It is often associated with significant withdrawal symptoms and craving leading to patient drop out and return to use. Accordingly, there is a worldwide need to find effective pharmacotherapeutic interventions for benzodiazepine dependence. One drug of increasing interest is the GABAA benzodiazepine receptor antagonist/partial agonist, flumazenil. Multiple bolus intravenous infusions of low dose flumazenil used either with or without benzodiazepine tapering can reduce withdrawal sequelae, and/or longer term symptoms in the months following withdrawal. Preliminary data suggest that continuous intravenous or subcutaneous flumazenil infusion for 4 days significantly reduces acute benzodiazepine withdrawal sequelae. The subcutaneous infusion was shown to be tissue compatible so the development of a longer acting (i.e. several weeks) depot flumazenil formulation has been explored. This could be capable of managing both acute and longer term benzodiazepine withdrawal sequelae. Preliminary in vitro water bath and in vivo biocompatibility data in sheep show that such an implant is feasible and so is likely to be used in clinical trials in the near future.
Population pharmacokinetics of abacavir in infants, toddlers and children
Authors: Zhao Wei , Piana Chiara , Danhof Meindert , Burger David , Della Pasqua Oscar , Jacqz‐Aigrain Evelyne
Published: November 2012

Aims

To characterize the pharmacokinetics of abacavir in infants, toddlers and children and to assess the influence of covariates on drug disposition across these populations.

Methods

Abacavir concentration data from three clinical studies in human immunodeficiency virus‐infected children (n = 69) were used for model building. The children received either a weight‐normalized dose of 16 mg kg−1 day−1 or the World Health Organization recommended dose based on weight bands. A population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using nonlinear mixed effects modelling VI. The influence of age, gender, bodyweight and formulation was evaluated. The final model was selected according to graphical and statistical criteria.

Results

A two‐compartmental model with first‐order absorption and first‐order elimination best described the pharmacokinetics of abacavir. Bodyweight was identified as significant covariate influencing the apparent oral clearance and volume of distribution. Predicted steady‐state maximal plasma concentration and area under the concentration–time curve from 0 to 12 h of the standard twice daily regimen were 2.5 mg l−1 and 6.1 mg h l−1 for toddlers and infants, and 3.6 mg l−1 and 8.7 mg h l−1 for children, respectively. Model‐based predictions showed that equivalent systemic exposure was achieved after once and twice daily dosing regimens. There were no pharmacokinetic differences between the two formulations (tablet and solution). The model demonstrated good predictive performance for dosing prediction in individual patients and, as such, can be used to support therapeutic drug monitoring in conjunction with sparse sampling.

Conclusions

The disposition of abacavir in children appears to be affected only by differences in size, irrespective of the patient's age. Maturation processes of abacavir metabolism in younger infants should be evaluated in further studies to demonstrate the potential impact of ontogeny.
Establishing a body awareness group for adults with learning disabilities
Authors: Rubbert Stefanie , Bisnauth Radha , Offen Liz
Published: November 2012

Accessible Summary

We held a group for people with Learning Disabilities who were overweight and unhappy about being so.

The group ran for 9 weeks. It lasted 2 h and four adults came to the group.

The group talked about how they felt about their bodies, why they ate and why it is sometimes hard to choose healthy food over unhealthy food. It helped people learn to accept their body size and shape.

The Clinical Psychology Service and the Dietetic and Nutrition Service for People with Learning Disabilities in Birmingham shared concerns about the effectiveness of services offered to service users who were overweight. In an effort to gain more understanding of the issues from a service user perspective and to ultimately provide more effective services, a body awareness group was established, structured according to the ‘Health at Every Size’ model. Four adults with learning disabilities attended a total of nine sessions held once a week for a period of 2 h. Topics were presented to the group in the form of group discussions or group activities, which included: personal and social attributions towards body shape and size; self‐esteem; physical eating vs. emotional eating; relationship with food (e.g. understanding of choosing junk food over healthier options); negative messages people tell themselves about eating and factors that prevent people from engaging in a healthier lifestyle. This study aims to report the process of designing and facilitating the ‘Body Awareness Group’ and to critically review observations and findings in an effort to gain greater understanding of the role of food in this context.
Brain Maturation and Risky Behavior: The Promise and the Challenges of Neuroimaging‐Based Accounts
Authors: Bjork James M. , Lynne‐Landsman Sarah D. , Sirocco Karen , Boyce Cheryl A.
Published: November 2012

Emerging brain‐imaging findings suggest that developmental differences in the structure and activity of brain regions involved in motivation and behavior control may contribute to risky behavior in adolescence. Adolescence may be characterized by robust motivational neurocircuitry that is relatively unhindered by developing cognitive control neurocircuitry. However, how developmental differences in brain structure or function depend on task features or other experimental contexts, or whether observed differences are functionally relevant for real‐world risky behavior, is not well understood. The challenge of attributing adolescent risk taking to developmental patterns of brain morphology and brain activity underscores the need for future research sensitive to development and the contexts of adolescence.
Differential effect of hyperglycaemia on the immune response in an experimental model of diabetes in BALB/cByJ and C57Bl/6J mice: participation of oxidative stress
Authors: Rubinstein M R , Genaro A M , Wald M R
Published: November 2012

Diabetes is associated with an increased risk of death from infectious disease. Hyperglycaemia has been identified as the main factor contributing to the development of diseases associated with diabetes mellitus. However, experimental evidence indicates individual susceptibility to develop complications of diabetes. In this context, the aim of this work was to study the immune response in a streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes in two mouse strains: BALB/cByJ and C57Bl/6J. The participation of hyperglycaemia and oxidative stress was also analysed. Diabetic BALB/cByJ mice showed a decrease in both the in-vivo and in-vitro immune responses, whereas diabetic C57Bl/6J mice had higher blood glucose but exhibited no impairment of the immune response. The influence of hyperglycaemia over the immune response was evaluated by preincubation of lymphocytes from normal mice in a high glucose-containing medium. T and B cells from BALB/cByJ mice showed a decrease in cell viability and mitogen-stimulated proliferation and an increase in apoptosis induction. An increase in oxidative stress was implicated in this deleterious effect. These parameters were not affected in the T and B lymphocytes from C57Bl/6J mice. In conclusion, BALB/cByJ mice were sensitive to the deleterious effect of hyperglycaemia, while C57BL/6J were resistant. Although an extrapolation of these results to clinical conditions must be handled with caution, these results highlight the need to contemplate the genetic background to establish models to study the deleterious effect of diabetes in order to understand phenotypical variations that are of clinical importance in the treatment of patients.
Human leucocyte antigen-Bw4 and Gag-specific T cell responses are associated with slow disease progression in HIV-1B-infected anti-retroviral therapy-naive Chinese
Authors: Li W-H , Li C-Y , Yang H-B , Zhang H-P , Zhang X , Kong L-S , Xu X-N , Lu S-C , Yan H-P
Published: November 2012

In China, the majority of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections are predominately subtype B. It is important to characterize the HIV-1 subtype B-specific and its T cell response within the Chinese population, with the aim of identifying protective correlates of immunity to control HIV-1 infections. In this study, we performed a comprehensive analysis looking into the magnitude/strength of T cell responses directed at the Gag protein of the HIV-1 subtype B, one of the most conserved HIV-1 proteins. The study group consisted of anti-retroviral native and chronic HIV-1 subtype B-infected individuals. We used enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT) assay to quantify the total T cell responses to HIV-1 Gag at the single peptide level. Twenty-eight (38%) peptides were recognized in 24 (82·8%) individuals. The p24 was identified as the most frequently recognized subunit protein with the greatest T cell response in the test, which correlated positively with CD4+ T cell count and inversely with viral load (VL). At the level of the human leucocyte antigen (HLA) supertypes, we detected the highest levels and a significant correlation with both the CD4+ T cell count and the VL with Gag T cell responses in Bw4/Bw4. These findings demonstrate that (i) the HIV-1B Gag p24-specific immune responses play an important role in controlling viral replication and slowing clinical progression; and (ii) HLA-Bw4/Bw4 allele has stronger T cell responses, which is associated with slow clinical progression in Chinese HIV patients.
Experimental models to investigate the function of dendritic cell subsets: challenges and implications
Authors: Hancock D G , Guy T V , Shklovskaya E , Fazekas de St Groth B
Published: November 2012

The dendritic cell (DC) lineage is remarkably heterogeneous. It has been postulated that specialized DC subsets have evolved in order to select and support the multitude of possible T cell differentiation pathways. However, defining the function of individual DC subsets has proven remarkably difficult, and DC subset control of key T cell fates such as tolerance, T helper cell commitment and regulatory T cell induction is still not well understood. While the difficulty in assigning unique functions to particular DC subsets may be due to sharing of functions, it may also reflect a lack of appropriate physiological in-vivo models for studying DC function. In this paper we review the limitations associated with many of the current DC models and highlight some of the underlying difficulties involved in studying the function of murine DC subsets.
Utility of Right Ventricular Strain Imaging in Predicting Pulmonary Vascular Resistance in Patients With Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Naderi Nasim , Ojaghi Haghighi Zahra , Amin Ahmad , Naghashzadeh Farah , Bakhshandeh Hooman , Taghavi Sepide , Maleki Majid
Published: November 2012

Pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) has important prognostic implications in the assessment of patients with pulmonary hypertension. Using echocardiography to measure PVR would have the advantage of being able to follow patients serially and to assess their response to treatment noninvasively. The authors sought to assess whether right ventricular strain rate imaging (SRI) can predict PVR in patients with pulmonary hypertension. The study population consisted of 46 patients referred for right heart catheterization. The inclusion criteria was mean pulmonary artery pressure ≥25 mm Hg in right heart catheterization in patients with pulmonary hypertension including chronic systolic heart failure. Echocardiography was performed to obtain SRI just before right heart catheterization. Mean values of peak systolic longitudinal strain and strain rate obtained from basal and mid‐right ventricular free wall were calculated. The control group consisted of 35 healthy adults matched for age and sex. The most significant correlations were between basal right ventricular strain and strain rate (SR) and mean pulmonary arterial pressure (r=0.63, P=.000), transpulmonary gradient (r=0.6, P=.001), and PVR (r=0.5, P=.003). SR was independently correlated with PVR (PVR=26.9−16.9×basal right ventricular SR; r=0.53, P=.003). The present study shows that basal right ventricular free wall strain and SR could be independently correlated with PVR in patients with pulmonary hypertension.
Acquired auditory agnosia in childhood and normal sleep electroencephalography subsequently diagnosed as Landau–Kleffner syndrome: a report of three cases
Authors: VAN BOGAERT PATRICK , KING MARY D , PAQUIER PHILIPPE , WETZBURGER CATHERINE , LABASSE CATHERINE , DUBRU JEAN‐MARIE , DEONNA THIERRY
Published: November 2012

Aim We report three cases of Landau–Kleffner syndrome (LKS) in children (two females, one male) in whom diagnosis was delayed because the sleep electroencephalography (EEG) was initially normal.

Method Case histories including EEG, positron emission tomography findings, and long‐term outcome were reviewed.

Results Auditory agnosia occurred between the age of 2 years and 3 years 6 months, after a period of normal language development. Initial awake and sleep EEG, recorded weeks to months after the onset of language regression, during a nap period in two cases and during a full night of sleep in the third case, was normal. Repeat EEG between 2 months and 2 years later showed epileptiform discharges during wakefulness and strongly activated by sleep, with a pattern of continuous spike‐waves during slow‐wave sleep in two patients. Patients were diagnosed with LKS and treated with various antiepileptic regimens, including corticosteroids. One patient in whom EEG became normal on hydrocortisone is making significant recovery. The other two patients did not exhibit a sustained response to treatment and remained severely impaired.

Interpretation Sleep EEG may be normal in the early phase of acquired auditory agnosia. EEG should be repeated frequently in individuals in whom a firm clinical diagnosis is made to facilitate early treatment.
Homozygous c.649dupC mutation in PRRT2 worsens the BFIS/PKD phenotype with mental retardation, episodic ataxia, and absences
Authors: Labate Angelo , Tarantino Patrizia , Viri Maurizio , Mumoli Laura , Gagliardi Monica , Romeo Antonino , Zara Federico , Annesi Grazia , Gambardella Antonio
Published: November 2012

Heterozygous mutations of PRRT2, which encodes proline‐rich transmembrane protein 2, are associated with heterogeneous phenotypes including benign familial infantile seizures (BFIS), or familial paroxysmal kinesigenic dystonia (PKD). We report a consanguineous Italian family with BFIS/PKD phenotype that contained 14 living members with 6 affected individuals (four men, ranging in age from 6–44 years). We identified the reported c.649dupC (p.Arg217ProfsX8) mutation of PRRT2 gene that cosegregated with the disease and was not observed in 100 controls of matched ancestry. Four patients with BFIS phenotype were heterozygous for this mutation, including the consanguineous parents of the two affected brothers with more severe phenotypes of BFIS/PKD—mental retardation, episodic ataxia, and absences—who were the only individuals to carry a homozygous c.649dupC mutation. This family provides strong evidence that homozygous PRRT2 mutations give rise to more severe clinical disease of mental retardation, episodic ataxia, and absences, and, thus, enlarges the clinical spectrum related to PRRT2 mutations. Moreover, it suggests an additive effect of double dose of the genetic mutation and underscores the complexity of the phenotypic consequences of mutations in this gene.
Exploring the Determinants of the Entry and Exit of Ministers inKorea: 1980–2008
Authors: Hahm Sung Deuk , Jung Kwangho , Lee Sam Youl
Published: November 2012

The entry and exit of ministers has been of primary interest to students of political science and public management inWestern countries. Responding to the lack of research on the entry and exit of ministers in non‐Western countries, this article examined determinants of both the entrance and exit of ministers inKorea from the life cycle point of view based on theKoreanMinisterialDatabase from 1980 to 2008. We argued that as theKorean presidency shifts from an imperialistic to a democratic presidency, ministerial appointments inKorea also seem to shift from an expertise‐focused to a politics‐focused approach. Likewise, the primary resignation reason also shifts from policy failure to political reasons. We also argued thatKorean presidents use their power to reshuffle cabinet ministers too often for their political interests. As a result,Korean ministers spend too little time in post; average tenure is now down to about one year. These short terms in office dilute a minister's ability to dictate departmental policy.
‘Heroes and Matriarchs’: Working‐Class Femininities, Violence and Door Supervision Work
Authors: Rickett Bridgette , Roman Andrew
Published: November 2012

Door supervision work is traditionally seen as a working‐class, male‐dominated trade. In addition, it is deemed to be one that is physically risky, where violence is seen as a ‘tool of the trade’ and where ‘bodily capital’ and ‘fighting ability’ are paramount to the competent performance of the job. This paper is a timely analysis on the manner in which the increasing numbers of women who work in door supervision negotiate their occupational identity and construct their work practices. The analysis focused on the way in which discursive constructions of both violence and workplace identities are variably taken up, reworked and resisted through the intersection of gender and class. This resulted in the identification of two main discourses; ‘playing the hero’ and the ‘hard matriarch’. These findings allow us to theorize that multiple, gendered and classed occupational identities exist beyond normative expectations and can be seen to be both emancipatory for working women, while simultaneously bolstering exploitation, workplace harassment and violent practices.
Fluvastatin inhibits the induction of inducible nitric oxide synthase, an inflammatory biomarker, in hepatocytes
Authors: Tokuhara Katsuji , Habara Kozo , Oishi Masaharu , Miki Hirokazu , Tanaka Yoshito , Kaibori Masaki , Nishizawa Mikio , Okumura Tadayoshi , Kwon A‐Hon
Published: November 2012

Aim

Statins (3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme A [HMG‐CoA] reductase inhibitors), which were originally designed to lower plasma cholesterol levels, are increasingly recognized as anti‐inflammatory agents. In the inflamed liver, pro‐inflammatory cytokines stimulate the induction of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Overproduction of NO by iNOS has been implicated as a factor in liver injury. We examined pro‐inflammatory cytokine‐stimulated hepatocytes as a simple in vitro injury model to determine liver‐protective effects of statins. We hypothesized that statins are involved in the downregulation of iNOS, resulting in decreased hepatic inflammation.

Methods

Hepatocytes were isolated from rats by collagenase perfusion and centrifugation. Primary cultured hepatocytes were treated with interleukin (IL)‐1β in the presence or absence of fluvastatin. The induction of iNOS and its signaling pathway were analyzed.

Results

IL‐1β produced increased levels of NO. This effect was inhibited by fluvastatin, which exerted its maximal effects at 100 μM. Fluvastatin decreased the levels of iNOS protein and its mRNA expression. Fluvastatin had no effects on IκB degradation and nuclear factor‐κB activation. However, fluvastatin inhibited the upregulation of type I IL‐1 receptor mRNA and protein expression. Transfection experiments demonstrated that fluvastatin suppressed iNOS induction by the inhibition of promoter transactivation and mRNA stabilization. Fluvastatin reduced the expression of an iNOS gene antisense‐transcript, which is involved in iNOS mRNA stability.

Conclusion

Results indicate that fluvastatin inhibits the induction of iNOS at both transcriptional and post‐transcriptional steps, leading to the prevention of NO production. Fluvastatin may provide therapeutic potential in iNOS induction involved in various liver injuries.
Cathepsin K expression in a wide spectrum of perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms (PEComas): a clinicopathological study emphasizing extrarenal PEComas
Authors: Rao Qiu , Cheng Liang , Xia Qiu‐yuan , Liu Biao , Li Li , Shi Qun‐li , Shi Shan‐shan , Yu Bo , Zhang Ru‐song , Ma Heng‐hui , Lu Zhen‐feng , Tu Pin , Zhou Xiao‐jun
Published: November 2012

Aims

Recent studies have demonstrated that cathepsin K seems to be a powerful marker in identifying renal perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms (PEComas). However, the expression in extrarenal PEComas has not been well characterized due to their rare incidence. Our aim was to investigate the expression of cathepsin K in a wide spectrum of extrar‐enal PEComas and evaluate its potential diagnostic usefulness in comparison with other commonly used markers.

Methods and results

Twenty‐three cases of PEComa (liver, n = 9; lung, n = 1; broad ligament of uterus, n = 1; vertex subcutaneous soft tissue, n = 1; abdominal wall, n = 1; and kidney, n = 10) were selected for study. All displayed a high percentage of cells with moderately to strongly positive reactions for cathepsin K (mean 91%; range 80–100%). HMB45, Melan‐A and smooth muscle actin (SMA) were expressed in 78, 87 and 87% of cases, respectively, with various percentages of positive cells (mean, 34, 40 and 38%; range 0–80, 0–90 and 0–90%). Transcription factor E3 (TFE3) was expressed strongly in only three cases; none exhibited evidence of TFE3 gene fusion or amplification.

Conclusions

Cathepsin K appears to be more powerful than other commonly used markers in diagnosing a wide spectrum of PEComas and distinguishing them from the majority of human cancers.
Statistical estimates of respiratory admissions attributable to seasonal and pandemic influenza for Canada
Authors: Schanzer Dena L. , McGeer Allison , Morris Kathleen
Published: November 2012

Please cite this paper as: Schanzer et al. (2012) Statistical estimates of respiratory admissions attributable to seasonal and pandemic influenza for Canada. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses DOI: 10.1111/irv.12011.

Background  The number of admissions to hospital for which influenza is laboratory confirmed is considered to be a substantial underestimate of the true number of admissions due to an influenza infection. During the 2009 pandemic, testing for influenza in hospitalized patients was a priority, but the ascertainment rate remains uncertain.

Methods  The discharge abstracts of persons admitted with any respiratory condition were extracted from the Canadian Discharge Abstract Database, for April 2003–March 2010. Stratified, weekly admissions were modeled as a function of viral activity, seasonality, and trend using Poisson regression models.

Results  An estimated 1 out of every 6·4 admissions attributable to seasonal influenza (2003–April 2009) were coded to J10 (influenza virus identified). During the 2009 pandemic (May–March 2010), the influenza virus was identified in 1 of 1·6 admissions (95% CI, 1·5–1·7) attributed to the pandemic strain. Compared with previous H1N1 seasons (2007/08, 2008/09), the influenza‐attributed hospitalization rate for persons <65 years was approximately six times higher during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic, whereas for persons 75 years or older, the pandemic rate was approximately fivefold lower.

Conclusions  Case ascertainment was much improved during the pandemic period, with under ascertainment of admissions due to H1N1/2009 limited primarily to patients with a diagnosis of pneumonia.
Modelling long‐term carbon dynamics in soils reconstituted with large quantities of organic matter
Authors: Vidal‐Beaudet L. , Grosbellet C. , Forget‐Caubel V. , Charpentier S.
Published: November 2012

In urban conditions, the widescale availability of organic matter to be recycled and the necessity for soil reconstitution (Technosol) has led to the input of very large quantities of organic matter (up to 50% v/v). The long‐term degradation of these large quantities of organic matter in the soil is not well known. We monitored, over a 60‐month period, the total carbon (C) content and the particulate and biochemical fractions of reconstituted soils placed in 600‐litre boxes under natural conditions. The top layer was a sandy loam amended with 20 or 40% of sphagnum peat or organic compost (sewage sludge, wood chip compost or green waste compost) lying on a layer of sandy loam. We measured C mineralization over time under controlled conditions and built a long‐term model to simulate carbon dynamics where exogenous organic carbon (EOC) was divided into two biodegradable compartments. The model yielded the proportions of EOC that either resisted degradation or contributed to soil organic C storage by mineralization and/or humification. Organic matter degradation was linked to its maturity and to its contents in certain particulate and biochemical fractions but was independent of how much of a given organic matter was introduced. We found a good correlation between the degradable organic compartment and the lignin and cutin‐like, hemicellulose and cellulose‐like fractions larger than 1 mm. The model showed that a large part of initial EOC was still present in the soil after 5 years in a potentially biodegradable but resistant compartment. The degradation of that compartment by mineralization or humification is therefore expected to take longer.
Impacts of domestication on angling vulnerability of common carp, Cyprinus carpio: the role of learning, foraging behaviour and food preferences
Authors: Klefoth T. , Pieterek T. , Arlinghaus R.
Published: November 2012

Domestication in fish selection increases vulnerability to angling. Two common garden‐reared genotypes of common carp, Cyprinus carpio L., differing in degree of domestication (highly domesticated mirror carp and less domesticated scaled carp) were exposed to fishing in two environments (i.e. ponds and laboratory tanks) to quantify vulnerability to angling. Foraging behaviour and food preferences were quantified to explain variation in angling vulnerability in a mechanistic manner. Domesticated mirror carp were more vulnerable to angling gear than scaled carp in both environments, which was related to greater food intake and bolder‐foraging behaviour. Independent of genotype, catchability decreased and time until first capture increased over fishing time, indicating learned hook avoidance. No differences were observed in food preferences among genotypes, rendering bait‐selective feeding an unlikely explanation for differential vulnerability to angling. It was concluded that vulnerability to angling has a genetic basis in carp and that boldness plays a paramount role in explaining why more domesticated genotypes are more easily captured by angling.
Marine mammal culling programs: review of effects on predator and prey populations
Authors: Bowen W. D. , Lidgard Damian
Published: November 2012

Culling is widely practised as a means to reduce predation effects of terrestrial carnivores, birds and marine mammals in many parts of the world. Of marine mammals, coastal pinniped species have usually been the target of culling programs, but dolphins and a large odontocete have also been culled.

We reviewed the published literature on marine mammal culling programs to evaluate the extent of their efficacy as a fisheries management measure.

Changes in species' distributions and abundance demonstrate that culling programs can be very effective at reducing predator density.

Several conclusions from experimental studies of terrestrial mammals and birds may also apply to marine mammal control. Firstly, predator removal generally increases productivity and population size of target prey populations, but not always. Secondly, culling programs typically involve a large proportional reduction (>50%) in predator populations.

Thirdly, the effects of culling are typically dependent on continued control, and in the absence of control the population rapidly returns to pre‐culling density. This underscores the need for predator removal to be a long‐term management strategy. Fourthly, culling predators often has non‐intuitive and unintended consequences for target species and for other predator and prey species.

Marine mammal culling programs rarely have measurable objectives with respect to prey populations, and their success has not been evaluated. Culling marine mammals is controversial because of the following: (i) they are high‐profile charismatic megafauna; (ii) many populations are recovering from a period of over‐exploitation while others remain threatened or endangered; and (iii) the scientific evidence needed to justify a cull is usually highly uncertain.

Marine mammal culling programs should be based on scientific analysis with stated and measurable objectives to be evaluated during planned follow‐up monitoring.
Reproducibility of an objective four‐choice canine vision testing technique that assesses vision at differing light intensities
Authors: Annear Matthew J. , Gornik Kara R. , Venturi Francesca L. , Hauptman Joe G. , Bartoe Joshua T. , Petersen‐Jones Simon M.
Published: November 2012

Objective  The increasing importance of canine retinal dystrophy models means accurate vision testing is needed. This study was performed to evaluate a four‐choice vision testing technique for any difference in outcome measures with repeated evaluations of the same dogs.

Animals studied  Four 11‐month‐old RPE65‐deficient dogs.

Procedures  Vision was evaluated using a previously described four‐choice vision testing device. Four evaluations were performed at 2‐week intervals. Vision was assessed at six different white light intensities (bright through dim), and each eye was evaluated separately. The ability to select the one of the four exit tunnels that was open at the far end was assessed (‘choice of exit’) and recorded as correct or incorrect first tunnel choice. ‘Time to exit’ the device was also recorded. Both outcomes were analyzed for significance using anova. We hypothesized that performance would improve with repeated testing (more correct choices and more rapid time to exit).

Results  ‘Choice of exit’ did not vary significantly between each evaluation (P = 0.12), in contrast ‘time to exit’ increased significantly (P = 0.012), and showed greater variability in dim light conditions.

Conclusions  We found no evidence to support the hypothesis that either measure of outcome worsened with repeated testing; in fact, the ‘time to exit’ outcome worsened rather than improved. The ‘choice of exit’ gave consistent results between trials. These outcome data indicate the importance of including a choice‐based assessment of vision in addition to measurement of device transit time.