bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TASK Channel Deletion Reduces Sensitivity to Local Anesthetic-induced Seizures
Authors: Du Guizhi , Chen Xiangdong , Todorovic Marko S. , Shu Shaofang , Kapur Jaideep , Bayliss Douglas A.
Published: October 2011

Background

Local anesthetics (LAs) are typically used for regional anesthesia but can be given systemically to mitigate postoperative pain, supplement general anesthesia, or prevent cardiac arrhythmias. However, systemic application or inadvertent intravenous injection can be associated with substantial toxicity, including seizure induction. The molecular basis for this toxic action remains unclear.

Methods

We characterized inhibition by different LAs of homomeric and heteromeric K channels containing TASK-1 (K2P3.1, KCNK3) and TASK-3 (K2P9.1, KCNK9) subunits in a mammalian expression system. In addition, we used TASK-1/TASK-3 knockout mice to test the possibility that TASK channels contribute to LA-evoked seizures.

Results

LAs inhibited homomeric and heteromeric TASK channels in a range relevant for seizure induction; channels containing TASK-1 subunits were most sensitive and IC₅₀ values indicated a rank order potency of bupivacaine > ropivacaine > lidocaine. LAs induced tonic-clonic seizures in mice with the same rank order potency, but higher LA doses were required to evoke seizures in TASK knockout mice. For bupivacaine, which produced the longest seizure times, seizure duration was significantly shorter in TASK knockout mice; bupivacaine-induced seizures were associated with an increase in electroencephalogram power at frequencies less than 5 Hz in both wild-type and TASK knockout mice.

Conclusions

These data suggest that increased neuronal excitability associated with TASK channel inhibition by LAs contributes to seizure induction. Because all LAs were capable of evoking seizures in TASK channel deleted mice, albeit at higher doses, the results imply that other molecular targets must also be involved in this toxic action.
Clinical and Manometric Characteristics of Allgrove Syndrome
Authors: Alhussaini Bakr , Gottrand Frédéric , Goutet Jean‐Michel , Scaillon Michèle , Michaud Laurent , Spyckerelle Claire , Viola Sheila , Lamblin Marie‐Dominique
Published: October 2011

Objective:

The association of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) insensitivity with achalasia and alacrimia (Allgrove syndrome, 3A) constitutes a rare multisystem disorder. Its evolution is not well known. The aim of this study was to describe clinical and esophageal manometric characteristics and outcomes in Allgrove syndrome.

Patients and Methods:

This multicenter retrospective study compared clinical and manometric characteristics at diagnosis and on follow‐up of 9 children presenting with 3A (mean age at diagnosis 7.1 years) with those of 9 children with idiopathic achalasia (IA) (mean age at diagnosis 8.3 years).

Results:

At the time of diagnosis, 3 children with 3A presented with no digestive or respiratory signs because they were identified during a family screening; 1 remained asymptomatic 8 years later. ACTH levels were high in patients with 3A. All of the patients with IA were symptomatic at diagnosis. No significant difference was observed when comparing any of the manometric parameters of the first esophageal manometry of 3A with those of IA. Seven children with 3A were operated on using the Heller procedure, completed by pneumatic esophageal dilation in 2 of these 7. One patient with 3A was treated only by nifedipine. Failure of treatment was observed in 3 children with 3A and 1 child with IA, partial success in 4 with 3A and 1 with IA, and total success in 2 with 3A and 7 with IA (P < 0.03). Control manometry showed that in the 3A group, partial success after surgery was always associated with abnormally low or normal lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, whereas failure after surgery was associated with high LES pressure.

Conclusions:

Our data showed that 3A presented a more severe course than IA despite presymptomatic diagnosis in cases of family screening. The high LES pressure noted in some patients with 3A is suggestive of a peculiar pattern in 3A affecting the LES and the lower part of the esophagus.
From the Tongue to the Gut
Authors: Negri Rossella , Morini Gabriella , Greco Luigi
Published: October 2011

The physiology of human taste experienced an unprecedented expansion of knowledge brought forward by modern genetics and molecular biology. In the last 10 years, the cellular organization of taste receptors from taste buds distributed in the various papillae of the tongue and the soft palate was enlightened. This molecular revolution rapidly expanded over and above the tongue because several papers reporting the presence of taste receptors in nongustatory tissues (eg, gut, brain) appeared. Hence, the issue of perception of food molecules is no longer confined to the field of nutrition and food preferences, but is rapidly expanding to gastrointestinal (GI) function and, possibly, to gut dysfunction. In children, functional GI diseases are strictly correlated to food preference and food aversion and up to now, the tools to address these kinds of problems were basic nutritional requirements, familial good sense, and a lot of patience: blunt tools to face extremely common and disturbing complaints. The fact that taste receptors are expressed down the whole of the intestinal tract is of particular interest because of their possible role in digestive behavior and absorption of nutrients; therefore, recent and future discoveries in this field will make possible the fine‐tuning of new, sharper tools to treat children with functional GI diseases.
Crohn Disease
Authors: Lowe Wendy , Kenwright Diane , Wyeth John , Blair Nikki
Published: October 2011

Background and Aim:

Crohn disease (CD) presents a range of physical, social, and psychological challenges, and can adversely affect the quality of life of those affected by it. The present study aimed to investigate the health‐related quality of life of paediatric patients with CD in the Wellington region. Measuring health‐related quality of life assists with resource allocation decisions and assesses various forms of interventions.

Methods:

Patients ages 9 to 18 years with CD in the Wellington region were assessed using the IMPACT‐III inflammatory bowel disease–specific questionnaire (n = 16). Eight participants filled it out and returned it by post; the remaining 8 filled it out in a meeting with the researcher and then underwent cognitive debriefing as part of a cross‐cultural adaptation of the questionnaire.

Results:

Of a maximum possible value of 175, the total health‐related quality of life score had a mean value of 119.2 (standard deviation 30.7). Using Spearman rank correlation analysis, significant findings included a positive correlation between disease duration and quality of life (ρ = 0.534, sig. <0.05) and a negative correlation between disease activity and quality of life (ρ = −0.596, sig. <0.05). Qualitative information included difficulties in coping with long‐term and unpleasant treatments and feelings of isolation.

Conclusions:

Children with Crohn disease in the Wellington region may benefit from age‐specific social and psychological support. Because there is limited information on quality of life in young patients with CD in New Zealand, the results of the present study may be used as baseline data for future studies.
Aerophagia Among Sri Lankan Schoolchildren
Authors: Devanarayana Niranga M. , Rajindrajith Shaman
Published: October 2011

Objective:

Aerophagia is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterised by repetitive air swallowing, abdominal distension, belching, and flatulence. In severe cases, it can lead to pneumoperitonium, volvulus of the colon, and intestinal perforation. Little is known about the epidemiology and clinical profile of affected children. The main objective of the present study was to assess the epidemiology of aerophagia in 10‐ to 16‐year‐olds in Sri Lanka.

Methods:

A school‐based cross‐sectional survey was conducted in 8 randomly selected schools in 4 randomly selected provinces in Sri Lanka. Data were collected using a pretested, self‐administered questionnaire, which was distributed in an examination setting and collected on the same day. Trained research assistants were present during completion of the questionnaire, for any required clarification. Aerophagia was diagnosed using the Rome III criteria.

Results:

In the present study, aerophagia was seen in 163 (7.5%) of the 2163 children evaluated. The prevalence was higher in older children (10.5% in 15‐year‐olds) and no sex difference was observed (boys 8.2% vs girls 6.8%, P > 0.05). Intestinal‐related (abdominal pain, nausea, and anorexia) and extraintestinal symptoms (headache, limb pain, sleeping difficulty, photophobia, and lightheadedness) were more prevalent among affected children (P < 0.05). A higher percentage of affected children were found to be exposed to stressful events when compared with controls (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

The present study highlights the high prevalence of aerophagia among Sri Lankan children and adolescents. This condition is more common in those exposed to emotional stress. Intestinal‐related symptoms and extraintestinal somatic symptoms are frequently seen in affected children.
No Relation Between Disease Activity Measured by Multiple Methods and REE in Childhood Crohn Disease
Authors: Wiskin Anthony E. , Wootton Stephen A. , Cornelius Victoria R. , Afzal Nadeem A. , Elia Marinos , Beattie R. Mark
Published: October 2011

Background and Aims:

Increased resting energy expenditure (REE) unmatched by dietary intake is implicated as a cause of poor nutrition in childhood inflammatory conditions. Adequate description of disease activity and correction of REE data for body composition are important to reach reliable conclusions about changes in REE associated with disease. The present study aimed to determine the effect of disease activity measured by clinical status, systemic and stool inflammatory markers on REE in children with Crohn disease using appropriate correction for confounding factors.

Methods:

Sixty children with Crohn disease were recruited from the regional paediatric gastroenterology unit and studied on 1 occasion. REE was measured by indirect calorimetry. Fat‐free mass (FFM) was estimated by skinfold thickness. Disease activity was measured using systemic (C‐reactive protein [CRP], erythrocyte sedimentation rate [ESR]) and faecal markers of inflammation (lactoferrin, calprotectin) and clinical scores (Paediatric Crohn Disease Activity Index).

Results:

Using a multiple regression model, there was no significant change in REE from active or inactive disease (β = 0.03, P = 0.7) nor from CRP (β = −0.05, P = 0.52), ESR (β = −0.07, P = 0.43), faecal calprotectin (β = −0.07, P = 0.38), and faecal lactoferrin (β = 0.01, P = 0.88). REE/kg FFM0.5 was not associated with the Paediatric Crohn Disease Activity Index (r = 0.1, P = 0.44), CRP (r = −0.3, P = 0.84) or ESR (r = 0.12, P = 0.4), faecal calprotectin (r = 0.04, P = 0.97), or faecal lactoferrin (r = 0.02, P = 0.87).

Conclusions:

REE corrected for physiologically relevant confounders is not associated with degree of disease activity using clinical tools or systemic and local inflammatory markers, and therefore is an unlikely mechanism for poor nutritional state.
Missense Mutation in the Amino Terminus of Phytochrome A Disrupts the Nuclear Import of the Photoreceptor
Authors: Sokolova Vladyslava , Bindics János , Kircher Stefan , Ádám Éva , Schäfer Eberhard , Nagy Ferenc , Viczián András
Published: October 2011

Phytochromes are the red/far-red photoreceptors in higher plants. Among them, phytochrome A (PHYA) is responsible for the far-red high-irradiance response and for the perception of very low amounts of light, initiating the very-low-fluence response. Here, we report a detailed physiological and molecular characterization of the phyA-5 mutant of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), which displays hyposensitivity to continuous low-intensity far-red light and shows reduced very-low-fluence response and high-irradiance response. Red light-induced degradation of the mutant phyA-5 protein appears to be normal, yet higher residual amounts of phyA-5 are detected in seedlings grown under low-intensity far-red light. We show that (1) the phyA-5 mutant harbors a new missense mutation in the PHYA amino-terminal extension domain and that (2) the complex phenotype of the mutant is caused by reduced nuclear import of phyA-5 under low fluences of far-red light. We also demonstrate that impaired nuclear import of phyA-5 is brought about by weakened binding affinity of the mutant photoreceptor to nuclear import facilitators FHY1 (for FAR-RED ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL1) and FHL (for FHY1-LIKE). Finally, we provide evidence that the signaling and degradation kinetics of constitutively nuclear-localized phyA-5 and phyA are identical. Taken together, our data show that aberrant nucleo/cytoplasmic distribution impairs light-induced degradation of this photoreceptor and that the amino-terminal extension domain mediates the formation of the FHY1/FHL/PHYA far-red-absorbing form complex, whereby it plays a role in regulating the nuclear import of phyA.
X-ray near-field speckle: implementation and critical analysis
Authors: Lu Xinhui , Mochrie S. G. J. , Narayanan S. , Sandy A. R. , Sprung M.
Published: October 2011

The newly introduced coherence-based technique of X-ray near-field speckle (XNFS) has been implemented at 8-ID-I at the Advanced Photon Source. In the near-field regime of high-brilliance synchrotron X-rays scattered from a sample of interest, it turns out that, when the scattered radiation and the main beam both impinge upon an X-ray area detector, the measured intensity shows low-contrast speckles, resulting from interference between the incident and scattered beams. A micrometer-resolution XNFS detector with a high numerical aperture microscope objective has been built and its capability for studying static structures and dynamics at longer length scales than traditional far-field X-ray scattering techniques is demonstrated. Specifically, the dynamics of dilute silica and polystyrene colloidal samples are characterized. This study reveals certain limitations of the XNFS technique, especially in the characterization of static structures, which is discussed.
Pre‐winter lipid stores in brown trout Salmo trutta along altitudinal and latitudinal gradients
Authors: Berg O. K. , Rød G. , Solem Ø. , Finstad A. G.
Published: October 2011

Pre‐winter lipid stores of brown trout Salmo trutta L. parr were compared along altitudinal (0–920 m a.s.l.) and latitudinal (58–71° N) gradients. There were increases in lipid content (size adjusted to common lipid‐free dry mass of 2·0 g, corresponding to fresh mass of 10 g) with both increasing altitude and latitude. Mean size‐adjusted lipid content for S. trutta in high altitude rivers was 60% higher than at low altitude (0·29 and 0·18 g, respectively). Mean size‐adjusted lipid content for S. trutta in northern rivers was 30% higher compared to that in southern rivers (0·30 and 0·23 g, respectively). There was a marked between‐river variation in mean lipid storage, probably reflecting different strategies or opportunities for the pre‐winter acquisition of lipid both locally within rivers and between different populations. This study shows that temperature or winter length, not latitudinal covariates such as annual light regime, governs lipid storage patterns in juvenile salmonids.
CD57 and γδ T‐cell receptor expression in nodal metastatic spread of melanoma
Authors: Petrini Iacopo , Scatena Cristian , Naccarato Antonio G. , Petrini Mario
Published: October 2011

Eur J Clin Invest 2012; 42 (5): 575–576
Longitudinal changes of the laboratory data of chronic hepatitis C patients with sustained virological response on long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Maruoka D. , Imazeki F. , Arai M. , Kanda T. , Fujiwara K. , Yokosuka O.
Published: October 2011

Summary.  There is no study that follows up longitudinal changes in laboratory data of patients with C‐viral chronic liver disease (C‐CLD) who achieved sustained virological esponse (SVR) with interferon treatment in a long‐term study. We investigated the laboratory data in a long‐term retrospective cohort study of 581 patients with C‐CLD who underwent liver biopsy between January 1986 and December 2005. 467 were treated with interferon and 207 of these patients achieved SVR with follow‐up periods of 8.36 ± 5.13 years. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, albumin levels, platelet counts, and the aspartate aminotransferase (AST)‐to‐platelet ratio index (APRI) values were serially examined during the follow‐up period. None of the 207 patients with SVR exhibited hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA positivity more than 6 months after the end of IFN treatment. Platelet counts and albumin levels increased only in those with eradication of HCV. APRI values decreased more in patients with SVR than in those with nonsustained virological responses (non‐SVR). Patients who achieved SVR and had fibrosis stage 0–1 and 2–4 at enrolment had platelet counts that longitudinally increased by 2.81 ± 3.95 and 5.49 ± 4.53 × 103/μL during the 10‐year follow‐up period, respectively. Albumin levels continuously increased during the first 2 years by 0.15 ± 0.31 and 0.33 ± 0.37 in fibrosis stage 0–1 and 2–4, respectively and then plateaued. ALT levels decreased rapidly one year after the start of treatment by 110.3 ± 140.0 and 100.5 ± 123.4 in fibrosis 0–1 and 2–4, respectively. HCV RNA negativity persisted in all patients with SVR, and laboratory data including APRI longitudinally improved during the long‐term follow‐up period.
Roles of DCL4 and DCL3b in rice phased small RNA biogenesis
Authors: Song Xianwei , Li Pingchuan , Zhai Jixian , Zhou Ming , Ma Lijia , Liu Bin , Jeong Dong‐Hoon , Nakano Mayumi , Cao Shouyun , Liu Chunyan , Chu Chengcai , Wang Xiu‐Jie , Green Pamela J. , Meyers Blake C. , Cao Xiaofeng
Published: October 2011

Higher plants have evolved multiple proteins in the RNase III family to produce and regulate different classes of small RNAs with specialized molecular functions. In rice (Oryza sativa), numerous genomic clusters are targeted by one of two microRNAs (miRNAs), miR2118 and miR2275, to produce secondary small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) of either 21 or 24 nucleotides in a phased manner. The biogenesis requirements or the functions of the phased small RNAs are completely unknown. Here we examine the rice Dicer‐Like (DCL) family, including OsDCL1, ‐3a, ‐3b and ‐4. By deep sequencing of small RNAs from different tissues of the wild type and osdcl4‐1, we revealed that the processing of 21‐nucleotide siRNAs, including trans‐acting siRNAs (tasiRNA) and over 1000 phased small RNA loci, was largely dependent on OsDCL4. Surprisingly, the processing of 24‐nucleotide phased small RNA requires the DCL3 homolog OsDCL3b rather than OsDCL3a, suggesting functional divergence within DCL3 family. RNA ligase‐mediated 5′ rapid amplification of cDNA ends and parallel analysis of RNA ends (PARE)/degradome analysis confirmed that most of the 21‐ and 24‐nucleotide phased small RNA clusters were initiated from the target sites of miR2118 and miR2275, respectively. Furthermore, the accumulation of the two triggering miRNAs requires OsDCL1 activity. Finally, we show that phased small RNAs are preferentially produced in the male reproductive organs and are likely to be conserved in monocots. Our results revealed significant roles of OsDCL4, OsDCL3b and OsDCL1 in the 21‐ and 24‐nucleotide phased small RNA biogenesis pathway in rice.
Simultaneous HAART improves survival in children coinfected with HIV and TB
Authors: Pensi Tripti , Hemal Alok , Banerjee Tanushree
Published: October 2011

Objectives  This study assesses the outcome of current treatment guidelines and the effect of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on survival of HIV/TB‐coinfected patients in a resource‐limited setting.

Methods  Observational cohort study at the pediatric HIV Clinic, RML Hospital, Delhi. All HIV‐infected patients who visited the clinic for the diagnosis of TB between 2002 and 2006 were observed until 31 March 2010. TB was diagnosed either at the time of enrolment or during follow‐up visits. Clinical and epidemiological data were registered. We compared children who were given HAART with TB treatment at time of diagnosis [simultaneous therapy (ST)] and children who received delayed HAART. Survival was assessed by Kaplan–Meier method and Cox regression model.

Results  Among the 298 children, 126 (42.2%) had TB, including 96 who received ST (76% of 126) and 30 who did not. There were no differences between the two groups except for a lower CD4 count in patients undergoing ST. ST was associated with improved survival [hazard ratio (HR), 0.35; 95% CI, 0.20–0.74; P = 0.002] and so were year of TB diagnosis and other AIDS‐defining conditions. Multivariate analysis revealed that ST was a powerful predictor of survival (HR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.14–0.68; P = 0.003). After adjusting for other prognostic variables such as age, gender, CD4 count at time of TB diagnosis, by Cox multivariate analysis, ST remained robustly associated with improved survival (HR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.17–0.71; P = 0.001).

Conclusions  Starting HAART during tuberculosis therapy significantly improves survival and provides further impetus for the integration of TB and HIV services.
Hypertension after heart and heart/lung transplantation in childhood – Study on the evolution of short‐term blood pressure regulation
Authors: Kohler Sarah M. , Reisner Judith , Kozlik‐Feldmann Rainer , Januszewska Katarzyna , Netz Heinrich , Pozza Robert Dalla
Published: October 2011

Kohler SM, Reisner J, Kozlik‐Feldmann R, Januszewska K, Netz H, Pozza RD. Hypertension after heart and heart/lung transplantation in childhood – Study on the evolution of short‐term blood pressure regulation.  Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15: 804–808. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Arterial hypertension complicates the follow‐up of heart‐ and heart/lung‐transplanted children. We investigated the evolution of BRS as short‐time BP regulation mechanism and BP after heart and heart/lung transplantation. Twenty patients (15 males; mean age 15.1 ± 4.3 yr) were studied twice at intervals of 2.96 ± 0.87 yr. BRS was calculated using non‐invasive beat‐to‐beat BP measurement system. HRV was calculated (LF, sympathetic influence; HF, parasympathetic influence). BRS increased in 10 patients (3.67 ± 1.43 ms/mmHg vs. 7.59 ± 3.40 mmHg, p = 0.005) (group 1). Six of 10 patients received antihypertensive medication. BRS decreased or remained unchanged in 10 patients (8.93 ± 7.9 ms/mmHg vs. 5.32 ± 6.6 ms/mmHg, p = 0.008) (group 2) with 9/10 patients necessitating antihypertensive medication. Group 1 showed LF/HF increase (LF/HF 1.03 ± 0.9 vs. 4.36 ± 2.32, p = 0.03); group 2 showed LF/HF decrease (LF/HF 3.7 ± 2.1 vs. 1.84 ± 1.1, p = 0.023). Evolution of BRS after heart and heart/lung transplantation in childhood seems to influence the necessity of antihypertensive medication. With time, increasing short‐time BP regulation involving sympathetic reinnervation may improve BP.
Effect of cross‐fostering on renal anti‐oxidant/oxidant status and development of hypertension in spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Lee SK , Sirajudeen KNS , Sundaram A , Zakaria R , Singh HJ
Published: October 2011

1. The hypotensive effect of cross‐fostering in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) is thought to involve adjustments in renal function. However, its association with renal anti‐oxidant/oxidant balance during cross‐fostering is not known.

2. The present study examined the effect of cross‐fostering and in‐fostering of 1‐day‐old offspring between SHR and Wistar‐Kyoto (WKY) dams on renal anti‐oxidant/oxidant status and systolic blood pressure (SBP). Renal anti‐oxidant/oxidant status and SBP were determined in the offspring from 4–16 weeks of age.

3. Cross‐fostered SHR had significantly lower SBP than in‐fostered SHR at 6, 8 and 12 weeks, but not at 16 weeks (127 ± 1 vs 144 ± 2, 138 ± 1 vs 160 ± 1, 174 ± 2 vs 184 ± 2 and 199 ± 2 vs 194 ± 3 mmHg at 6, 8, 12 and 16 weeks, respectively). No differences in SBP were evident between cross‐fostered and in‐fostered WKY rats. There were no significant differences in levels of thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS), protein carbonyl and total anti‐oxidant status (TAS) or superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S‐transferase and glutathione reductase activity between cross‐fostered and in‐fostered SHR or WKY offspring. However, compared with WKY rats, catalase activity was higher at 6 and 16 weeks, TAS was higher at 16 weeks and GPx activity and TBARS were lower at 16 weeks in SHR.

4. It appears that cross‐fostering of SHR offspring to WKY dams during the early postnatal period causes a transient delay in the rise in blood pressure in SHR and that this does not involve the renal anti‐oxidant/oxidant system.
Blurring Boundaries: The Integration of NGOs into Governance in Kenya
Authors: BRASS JENNIFER N.
Published: October 2011

This article examines the impact of the proliferation of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) on governance in Kenya. Looking specifically at service provision, it analyzes how the growth of NGOs has begun to change the way decisions are made and policy is formulated. In so doing, the article explores shifting NGO–government relations over time. The governance of service provision has become a complex, intertwined affair in which NGOs sit on national policymaking committees, government integrates NGO plans and budgets into national policy, and government actors learn from and copy NGOs' participatory, accountable approach. Through (1) the integration of former NGO leaders in government, (2) increasing the variety of voices heard in government decision making, (3) lobbying by NGOs, and (4) mimicry of NGOs by government, governance of Kenyan service provision has begun to become more democratic. Through such changes, developing countries are witnessing a blurring of the line between public and private.
The Marginal Mutiny: The New Historiography of the Indian Uprising of 1857
Authors: Wagner Kim A.
Published: October 2011

This essay considers the main developments within the historiography of the Indian Uprising of 1857 over the past decade.
Faith in the Future: Nostalgic Nationalism and 1950s Baghdad
Authors: Bernhardsson Magnus T.
Published: October 2011

Were the 1950s a golden age in Iraq? This article explores the relationship between history, memory and nationalism in the Iraqi context. It was a time of considerable economic growth and exciting artistic output and experiments. At the same time, it was also a time of political corruption and revolutionary zeal. The 1950s ended with a revolution that overthrew the British imposed Hashemite Monarchy that marked a distinct end of an era.
Development and Spread of Firearms in Medieval and Early Modern Eurasia
Authors: Lorge Peter
Published: October 2011

Recent research has overturned the pre‐existing understanding of the history of guns and gunpowder. This has invalidated the Military Revolution theory that argued that firearms revolutionized Europe warfare between 1500 and 1800, leading to the modern nation state. More research will be necessary to detail how and why gunpowder and guns spread throughout the world the way they did, and why Europeans were able to advance gun technology so quickly beginning in the 17th century.
Bishops in the Medieval Empire: New Perspectives on the Church, State and Episcopal Office
Authors: Eldevik John
Published: October 2011

Through the mid‐20th century, most historical research on bishops and the episcopate in early medieval Germany and the Holy Roman Empire was carried out within a conceptual framework known as the Imperial Church System (Reichskirchensystem), a merging of the early medieval church and royal government. The Reichskirchensystem grew out of a tradition of 19th century political history which took as its primary concern the evolution of the modern constitutional state and viewed the church and its personnel – namely bishops – as mostly negative influences on those processes over time. In the post‐war period, new approaches to constitutional and social history in the German academy prompted scholars to recast bishops as aristocratic elites and focus on the way they exercised lordship, or Herrschaft. More recently, studies of the episcopacy in Germany have embraced a variety of interdisciplinary methods and new approaches to medieval sources and begun to explore the ways bishops construed their power as a unique sphere of authority within the political and social worlds of the Middle Ages.
What’s in a Name, or What’s at Stake When We Talk about ‘Hussites’?
Authors: Haberken Phillip
Published: October 2011

Recent scholarship on the Waldensian and Cathar heresies has expressed considerable reservations about how scholars use names and labels to describe and categorize their subjects. The extensive debate on the appropriate use of terms for these movements has not, however, significantly or explicitly affected contemporary scholarship on the fifteenth‐century Hussite movement and Utraquist Church, which both developed in Bohemia. After analyzing how scholars have used the traditional historiographic tropes of nationalism, revolution, and reformation to understand Hussite history, this article employs the insights of contemporary heresy scholars in order to determine how scholars can responsibly – or at least knowingly – use a conventional term like ‘Hussite’ to describe the process of religious reform in Bohemia without unduly limiting the scope of scholarly inquiry or tacitly ignoring the importance of the Utraquist period. Ultimately, it seems preferable to frame an analysis of heresy and reform in the Czech lands primarily as an independent Bohemian Reformation that lasted from the mid‐fourteenth until the early seventeenth century, in which both the Hussite Revolution and Utraquist Church played foundational ideological and institutional roles.
IL28B polymorphisms are markers of therapy response and are influenced by genetic ancestry in chronic hepatitis C patients from an admixed population
Authors: Cavalcante Lourianne N. , Abe‐Sandes Kiyoko , Angelo Ana Luiza D. , Machado Taisa M. B. , Lemaire Denise C. , Mendes Carlos M. C. , Pinho João R. , Malta Fernanda , Lyra Luiz G.C. , Lyra André C.
Published: October 2011

Background

IL28B polymorphisms are predictors of therapy response in hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients. We do not know whether they are markers of treatment response in admixed populations or not.

Aims

To determine whether IL28B polymorphisms are predictors of therapy response in patients with HCV from an admixed population and are influenced by genetic ancestry.

Methods

rs12979860 and rs8099917 were genotyped in 222 HCV patients treated with pegylated interferon and ribavirin. Ancestry was determined using genetic markers.

Results

IL28B rs12979860 C/C was associated with sustained virological response (SVR), whereas C/T and T/T were associated with failure to therapy (P = 1.12 × 10−5). IL28B rs8099917 T/T was associated with SVR, and G/G and G/T were associated with nonresponse/relapse (NR/R) (P = 8.00 × 10−3). Among HCV genotype 1 patients with C/C genotype, genomic ancestry did not interfere with therapy response. Among patients with rs12979860 T/T genotype, African genetic contribution was greater in the NR/R group (P = 1.51 × 10−3), whereas Amerindian and European genetic ancestry contribution were higher in the SVR group (P = 3.77 × 10−3 and P = 2.16 × 10−2 respectively). Among HCV type 1 patients with rs8099917 T/T, African genetic contribution was significantly greater in the NR/R group (P = 5.0 × 10−3); Amerindian and European ancestry genetic contribution were greater in the SVR group.

Conclusion

IL28B rs12979860 and rs8099917 polymorphisms were predictors of therapy response in HCV genotypes 1, 2 and 3 subjects from an admixed population. Genomic ancestry did not interfere with response to therapy in patients with rs12979860 C/C, whereas it interfered in patients with C/T and T/T genotypes. Among HCV genotype 1 rs8099917 T/T patients, genomic ancestry interfered with response to therapy.
Chronic Cough and Tachycardia‐Induced Cardiomyopathy in a Patient with Idiopathic Frequent, Monomorphic Premature Ventricular Contractions
Authors: HASDEMIR CAN , MUSAYEV OKTAY , KEHRIBAR DEMET YALCIN , KARTAL YILDIRIM , CAN LEVENT H.
Published: October 2011

A 70‐year‐old woman presented with a 1‐year history of dry cough. Extensive work‐up ruled out common causes of chronic cough. She was found to have very frequent, monomorphic premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) and mild‐to‐moderate left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Propafenone 450 mg/day resulted in complete resolution of her cough and disappearance of PVCs within 24 hours of initiation. One month after the initiation of propafenone therapy, left ventricular ejection fraction normalized and her chronic cough resolved completely. (PACE 2013; 36:e156–e158)
Reactive‐Sinter‐Processing and Attractive Mechanical Properties of Bulk and Nanostructured Titanium Boride
Authors: Madtha Shawn , Ravi Chandran K. S.
Published: October 2011

An approach to synthesize bulk nanostructured titanium boride (TiB) ceramic material having a whisker‐like microstructure with a very attractive combination of mechanical properties is presented. The material is made of a three‐dimensional network of high aspect ratio TiB whiskers that are created in situ during reaction sintering of micron‐sized component powders at pressures of 15–20 MPa and at relatively low temperatures (<1400°C). It is shown that the properties are sensitive to the amount of titanium used in the reaction‐sintering process. The mechanism of formation of nanostructured TiB whiskers and the process of densification, both facilitated by tri‐modal powder particle packing and liquid/β‐phase regions, are illustrated. Mechanical property evaluations indicate that, unlike conventional nanoceramics, a good combination of hardness, strength, and toughness can be achieved by the control of microstructure. For example, the best TiB composition synthesized here resulted in a Vickers hardness of 16 GPa, an elastic modulus of 425 GPa, a mean flexural strength of 800 MPa, and a SEPB fracture toughness of 5.2 MPa√m. This combination of properties, from the perspective of room temperature applications, places the material on par with certain grades of silicon nitride (Si3N4) indicating that the material offers significant potential for further development.
Boron Carbide: Structure, Properties, and Stability under Stress
Authors: Domnich, Vladislav , Reynaud, Sara , Haber, Richard A. , Chhowalla Manish
Published: October 2011

Boron carbide is characterized by a unique combination of properties that make it a material of choice for a wide range of engineering applications. Boron carbide is used in refractory applications due to its high melting point and thermal stability; it is used as abrasive powders and coatings due to its extreme abrasion resistance; it excels in ballistic performance due to its high hardness and low density; and it is commonly used in nuclear applications as neutron radiation absorbent. In addition, boron carbide is a high temperature semiconductor that can potentially be used for novel electronic applications. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the recent advances in understanding of structural and chemical variations in boron carbide and their influence on electronic, optical, vibrational, mechanical, and ballistic properties. Structural instability of boron carbide under high stresses associated with external loading and the nature of the resulting disordered phase are also discussed.
Sex differences in developmental response to yeast hydrolysate supplements in adult Queensland fruit fly
Authors: Pérez‐Staples Diana , Weldon Christopher W. , Taylor Phillip W.
Published: October 2011

Post‐teneral dietary supplements have been found to improve mating performance of male Bactrocera tryoni (Froggatt) (Diptera: Tephritidae) (Q‐fly) and show considerable promise for enhancement of sterile insect technique (SIT) programmes even when applied within the current 48 h pre‐release holding period. However, Q‐flies are released as a bisexual strain, and the positive effects of a diet including yeast hydrolysate for males may also boost reproductive development and sexual performance of females. Increased prevalence of mature sterile females can substantially dilute SIT efficacy as mating capacity of sterile males is largely depleted by sterile females rather than the relatively rare wild females. Here, we demonstrate that providing yeast hydrolysate for 48 h after adult emergence, emulating the current pre‐release holding period of Q‐fly SIT, leads to a significant increase in reproductive development and sexual performance in male Q‐flies. In contrast, female Q‐flies with access to yeast hydrolysate for 48 h had ovaries that were poorly developed and, particularly at younger ages, were less likely to mate and remate than females with continuous, ad libitum access to yeast hydrolysate. Our findings suggest that addition of yeast hydrolysate into the pre‐release diet of Q‐flies could be a cost‐effective means of releasing a bisexual strain with competitive males but with sexually immature females, thereby rendering it operationally more similar to a unisexual strain.
Melatonin synergistically enhances cisplatin‐induced apoptosis via the dephosphorylation of ERK/p90 ribosomal S6 kinase/heat shock protein 27 in SK‐OV‐3 cells
Authors: Kim Ji‐Hyun , Jeong Soo‐Jin , Kim Bonglee , Yun Sun‐Mi , Choi Do Young , Kim Sung‐Hoon
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  To evaluate melatonin’s ability to enhance ovarian cancer cells to cisplatin treatment for ovarian cancer, this study was performed. Melatonin by itself had no significant cytotoxicity against SK‐OV‐3 cells, while cisplatin suppressed the cell viability in a dose‐dependent manner. Combined treatment with cisplatin and melatonin synergistically inhibited the viability of SK‐OV‐3 cells with the synergism between two drugs (1 > combination index). In contrast, melatonin revealed the protective effect against cisplatin‐induced cytotoxicity in OSEN normal ovarian epithelial cells. Cotreatment with cisplatin and melatonin increased the sub‐G1 DNA contents and TdT‐mediated dUTP nick end‐labeling (TUNEL)‐positive cells compared with cisplatin control in SK‐OV‐3 cells, suggesting that melatonin augments cisplatin‐induced apoptosis. Consistently, combined treatment of cisplatin and melatonin increased the cleavage of caspase‐3 and poly‐(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP). Importantly, melatonin synergistically inhibited the phosphorylation of extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) along with dephosphorylation of 90‐kDa ribosomal S6 kinase (p90RSK) and heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) induced by cisplatin. Furthermore, melatonin remarkably blocked the expression and colocalization of p90RSK and HSP27 by combination treatment with cisplatin. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that melatonin enhances cisplatin‐induced apoptosis via the inactivation of ERK/p90RSK/HSP27 cascade in SK‐OV‐3 cells as a potent synergist to cisplatin treatment.
Evidence for Convergent Evolution in Gape Morphology of the Bat Hawk (Macheiramphus alcinus) with Swifts, Swallows, and Goatsuckers
Authors: Jones Landon R. , Black Hal L. , White Clayton M.
Published: October 2011

Gape morphology has been linked to feeding and breeding ecology in raptors, according to the ingestion rate hypothesis. Mammal feeding raptors have larger gapes, allowing them to ingest prey more rapidly than bird feeders, which have evolved smaller average body sizes and gapes to capture more agile prey. One highly derived raptor, however, the Bat Hawk (Macheiramphus alcinus), specializes on colonial bats and swiftlets concentrated daily in a limited temporal window by capturing and swallowing them whole in flight. We hypothesized that the gape of the Bat Hawk evolved to feed rapidly on agile vertebrates limited temporally. We predicted that the gape of the Bat Hawk would be significantly larger than the gape of other raptors, more closely resembling the gapes of swifts (Apodidae), swallows (Hirundinidae), and goatsuckers (Caprimulgiformes). We measured gape area of the lower mandible in museum specimens representing 138 bird species in six orders. We also compared gape area by prey type in over 100 raptor species in three orders. We predicted that insectivorous raptors would exhibit gapes similar to mammal feeders but would differ from bird feeders because insects are not agile prey. The Bat Hawk had the largest gape of any raptor and more closely resembled the gape of insectivorous birds, which also swallow prey whole in flight. The evolution of an enlarged gape may have permitted the Bat Hawk to exploit a previously unrealized ecological niche. Gapes of bird feeding raptors were smaller than in mammal and insect feeders, supporting the ingestion rate hypothesis.
The Second Stroke Audit of Catalonia Shows Improvements in Many, but Not all Quality Indicators
Authors: Abilleira Sònia , Ribera Aida , Sánchez Emília , Tresserras Ricard , Gallofré Miquel
Published: October 2011

Background

Periodic audits allow monitoring of healthcare quality by comparing performances at different time points.

Aims

To assess quality of in-hospital stroke care in Catalonia in 2007 and compare it with 2005 (post-/preguidelines delivery, respectively).

Methods

Data on 13 evidence-based performance measures were collected by a retrospective review of medical records of consecutive stroke admissions (January–December 2007) to 47 acute hospitals in Catalonia. Adherence was calculated according to the ratio (patients with documented performance measures' compliance) (valid cases for that measure). Sampling weights were applied to produce estimates of compliance. The proportions of compliance with performance measures in both audits were compared using random-effects logistic regressions, with each performance measure as the dependent variable and audit edition as the explanatory variable to determine whether changes in stroke care quality occurred along time.

Results

We analyzed 1767 events distributed among 47 hospitals. In 2007, there was an increase in tissue plasminogen activator administrations (2·8% vs. 5·9%) and stroke unit admissions (16·6% vs. 22·6%) and a reduction in seven-day mortality (9·5% vs. 6·8%). Logistic regression models provided evidence of improved adherences to seven performance measures (screening of dysphagia, management of hyperthermia, baseline computed tomography scan, baseline glycemia, rehabilitation needs, early mobilization, and anticoagulants for atrial fibrillation), but worsening of management of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and antithrombotics at discharge. The remaining three performance measures showed no changes.

Conclusions

The Second Stroke Audit showed improvements in most dimensions of care, although unexpectedly a few but relevant performance measures became worse. Therefore, periodic stroke audits are needed to check changes in quality of care over time.
Postcolonialism and the Study of Religion: Dissecting Orientalism, Nationalism, and Gender Using Postcolonial Theory
Authors: Goulet Nicole
Published: October 2011

Postcolonialism in relation to the study of religion is most greatly informed by the development of postcolonial theory. While postcolonial theory is diverse in its methodological approach and content, the overarching concern is identifying colonialist constructions of knowledge (what Edward Said refers to as, ‘orientalism’) as they were used to justify and maintain the subordination of colonized groups. In particular, colonialist assumptions about religion as rooted in Judeo‐Christian morality are challenged by postcolonial theory, giving rise to new understandings of religious responses to the Empire. Postcolonial theorists have, in different ways, called to question these constructions of knowledge by critically evaluating the impact of these formulations as they pertain to religious ideologies and institutions. Further, by questioning key categories such as ‘religion’ and ‘the sacred’, as well as identifying responses to colonial rule in the form of nationalism, theorists have noted the ways in which women and the lower classes in particular have been impacted.
Measurement Instruction in the Context of Scientific Investigations With Diverse Student Populations
Authors: Adamson Karen , Secada Walter , Maerten‐Rivera Jaime , Lee Okhee
Published: October 2011

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of a hands‐on science curriculum, which integrates mathematics and supports English language development, on third‐grade students' mathematics achievement—specifically the measurement subscale of the statewide assessment. The data drew from a larger five‐year research and development project consisting of reform‐based science curriculum units and teacher workshops designed to promote effective science instruction while integrating mathematics and supporting English language development. The third‐grade curriculum places a strong emphasis on measurement skills in the context of science inquiry. The third‐grade students' performance on the measurement subscale of the statewide mathematics assessment in the treatment schools was compared with that of comparison schools using a hierarchical linear model. Students at the treatment schools performed significantly higher than students at the comparison schools. The results provide evidence that an integrated approach to mathematics and science instruction can benefit diverse student groups.
Reactive oxygen species inactivate neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors through a highly conserved cysteine near the intracellular mouth of the channel: implications for diseases that involve oxidative stress
Authors: Krishnaswamy Arjun , Cooper Ellis
Published: October 2011

Abstract  An intriguing feature of several nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) on neurons is that their subunits contain a highly conserved cysteine residue located near the intracellular mouth of the receptor pore. The work summarized in this review indicates that α3β4‐containing and α4β2‐containing neuronal nAChRs, and possibly other subtypes, are inactivated by elevations in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). This review discusses a model for the molecular mechanisms that underlie this inactivation. In addition, we explore the implications of this mechanism in the context of complications that arise from diabetes. We review the evidence that diabetes elevates cytosolic ROS in sympathetic neurons and inactivates postsynaptic α3β4‐containing nAChRs shortly after the onset of diabetes, leading to a depression of synaptic transmission in sympathetic ganglia, an impairment of sympathetic reflexes. These effects of ROS on nAChR function are due to the highly conserved Cys residues in the receptors: replacing the cysteine residues in α3 allow ganglionic transmission and sympathetic reflexes to function normally in diabetes. This example from diabetes suggests that other diseases involving oxidative stress, such as Parkinson's disease, could lead to the inactivation of nAChRs on neurons and disrupt cholinergic nicotinic signalling.