bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fitness consequences of social network position in a wild population of forked fungus beetles (Bolitotherus cornutus)
Authors: FORMICA V. A. , WOOD C. W. , LARSEN W. B. , BUTTERFIELD R. E. , AUGAT M. E. , HOUGEN H. Y. , BRODIE E. D.
Published: November 2011

Social networks describe the pattern of intraspecific interactions within a population. An individual’s position in a social network often is expected to influence its fitness, but only a few studies have examined this relationship in natural populations. We investigated the fitness consequences of network position in a wild beetle population. Copulation success of male beetles positively covaried with strength (a measure of network centrality) and negatively covaried with clustering coefficient (CC) (a measure of cliquishness). Further analysis using mediation path models suggested that the activity level of individuals drove the relationships between strength and fitness almost entirely. In contrast, selection on CC was not explained by individual behaviours. Although our data suggest that social network position can experience strong sexual selection, it is also clear that the relationships between fitness and some network metrics merely reflect variation in individual‐level behaviours.
Predicting massive blood transfusion using clinical scores post‐trauma
Authors: Mitra B. , Rainer T. H. , Cameron P. A.
Published: November 2011

Background and Objectives  Early prediction of massive transfusion (MT) post‐trauma may reduce mortality by earlier delivery of blood products. A clinical prediction tool (PWH score) for this purpose was developed at the Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong. The aims of this study were to apply this tool to major trauma patients in Victoria, Australia and compare the score to the Assessment of Blood Consumption (ABC) score and the Trauma‐Associated Severe Haemorrhage (TASH) score.

Methods  A retrospective review of patients entered into the The Alfred Trauma Registry between January 2006 and December 2009 was conducted. The performance of the PWH score to predict MT defined by 5 units of packed red blood cells in 4 h was compared with the ABC and TASH scores. Included patients presented to the Emergency & Trauma Centre from the scene and had had complete datasets with respect to the components of the three scores.

Results  There were 1234 patients included in the study with 195 (15·8%) receiving a MT and an overall mortality of 14·0%. The PWH score had an area under the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve of 0·842 (95% CI: 0·820–0·862). The area under the ROC curve of the PWH score was significantly less than that of the TASH score (χ2 = 19·8, P < 0·001) and significantly greater than that of the ABC score (χ2 = 9·3, P = 0·002).

Conclusions  The PWH score performs with similar accuracy when applied to an Australian population as in its derivation population. The relative simplicity of the PWH score makes it a viable tool for clinical use, although utility of such tools may be more suited for research in determining inclusion or exclusion criteria for comparative outcome studies.
Respiratory syncytial virus immunoprophylaxis in high‐risk infants with heart disease
Authors: Alexander Peta MA , Eastaugh Lucas , Royle Jenny , Daley Andrew J , Shekerdemian Lara S , Penny Daniel J
Published: November 2011

Aim:  Passive immunisation with palivizumab is recommended in many countries for children with haemodynamically significant cardiac disease. We trialled respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunoprophylaxis in such infants during 2008–2009.

Methods:  We identified all RSV admissions between 2005–2009 and examined all patients with significant cardiac disease who received palivizumab in 2008–2009.

Results:  Infants with symptomatic cardiac disease had a more complicated course of RSV bronchiolitis with longer hospital stay, more frequent intensive care admission, longer intensive care stay and were more likely to receive respiratory support (all P < 0.05). One hundred seventeen infants with symptomatic cardiac disease received palivizumab. Of these, two (1.7%) required admission for RSV bronchiolitis. Overall, there was a reduction in admission of infants with symptomatic cardiac disease with RSV bronchiolitis in 2008–2009 (2% per year) compared with 2005–2007 (5–9% per year; P < 0.03). The number of patients with symptomatic cardiac disease who required intensive care for RSV bronchiolitis in the same period was unchanged, as a number presented to our service with RSV infection prior to commencing immunoprophylaxis or having had their cardiac diagnosis made in other centres.

Conclusions:  Compared with other infants, those with haemodynamically significant cardiac disease have a more complicated course of illness with RSV bronchiolitis. In these infants, palivizumab reduced the number of hospitalisations because of RSV. Cohorting patients for maximal palivizumab use reduced overall cost. To significantly impact on intensive care admissions overall, immunoprophylaxis should be considered at a regional level.
Prader–Willi syndrome in Victoria: Mortality and causes of death
Authors: Lionti Tess , Reid Susan M , Rowell Margaret M
Published: November 2011

Aim:  The aim of this study was to describe the rates, predictors and causes of mortality in a population sample of individuals with Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS).

Methods:  One hundred sixty‐three individuals with PWS (90 males and 73 females, ages: 3 weeks to 60 years) were identified from the Victorian PWS Register. Information on demographics, age at diagnosis, genetic mechanism, age at which obesity developed and last known body mass index measurement were extracted. Notification and causes of death were obtained through linkage with Australian national and state of Victoria death indexes. Survival analysis was used to estimate the probability of survival and the effect of obesity on survival. Mortality rate ratios were calculated to investigate the effect of the factors listed above on mortality.

Results:  Fifteen deaths were recorded (nine males and six females), corresponding to an 87% probability of survival to 35 years. The probability of survival was significantly lower for individuals with known obesity (P= 0.03), but there was no strong evidence for an effect on survival for the other factors studied. Cardiac or respiratory conditions were common causes of death after the age of 15 years.

Conclusions:  The effect of known obesity on the probability of survival and the causes of death reported in this and other studies suggest an important association between obesity and early death in adults with PWS. This finding highlights the critical nature of preventative and intervention strategies aimed at minimising the effects of hyperphagia in individuals with PWS.
Case mix in paediatric rheumatology: Implications for training in Australia
Authors: Lim Sern Chin , Allen Roger C , Munro Jane E , Akikusa Jonathan D
Published: November 2011

Background:  Despite a move towards the provision of specialist training in Australia in settings that extend beyond the public hospital system, formal comparisons of case mix between public and private specialty clinics have rarely been performed. It is therefore unclear for many specialties how well training in one setting prepares trainees for practice in the other.

Aims:  This study aims to compare the case mix of paediatric rheumatology patients seen in public and private settings and the referral sources of patients in each.

Methods:  An audit of all new patients seen in the public and private paediatric rheumatology clinics on campus at Royal Children's Hospital between June 2009 and January 2011. Data related to demographics, primary diagnosis, referral source and location seen were abstracted and compared.

Results:  Eight hundred and seventy‐six new patients were seen during the period of interest. Of these, 429 patients (48.9%) were seen in private clinics. The commonest diagnostic categories for both type of clinics were non‐inflammatory musculoskeletal pain/orthopaedic conditions (public 39.4%, private 33.6%) followed by juvenile idiopathic arthritis (public 16.6%, %, private 18.6%), other skin/soft tissue disorders (public 8.7%, private 9.6%) and pain syndromes (public 4.9%, private 11.4%). Patients with haematological and vasculitic disorders were predominantly seen in public clinics. The commonest source of referrals to both clinics was general practitioners (public 40.6%, private 53.1%).

Conclusion:  The case mix in private paediatric rheumatology clinics closely mirrors that of public clinics at our centre. Training in either setting would provide sufficient case‐mix exposure to prepare trainees for practice in the other.
Absolute interdialytic weight gain is more important than percent weight gain for intradialytic hypotension in heavy patients
Authors: LAI CHUAN‐TSAI , WU CHIH‐JEN , CHEN HAN‐HSIANG , PAN CHI‐FENG , CHIANG CHIN‐LING , CHANG CHIUNG‐YING , CHEN YU‐WEI
Published: November 2011

Aim:  Few published reports have mentioned the difference between absolute interdialytic weight gain (IDWG) and IDWG/DW (IDWG%), and subsequent effects on daily dialysis. The aim of present study was to evaluate the difference between absolute IDWG and IDWG% in new haemodialysis patients.

Method:  We retrospectively reviewed the records of 255 patients who recently received conventional haemodialysis for at least 1 year at the same centre from 1997 to 2008. The first 4 weeks after starting haemodialysis was defined as the pre‐study period. Data were collected for 5–56 weeks.

Results:  IDWG% value remained relatively constant in the first year of haemodialysis despite most patients having certain residual renal function. For haemodialysis outcomes, both absolute IDWG and IDWG% were significantly correlated with intradialytic hypotension (IDH) in men and heavy women. After dividing patients into four strata, which according to the gender and the median dry weight, stepwise multivariate linear regression analysis showed that absolute IDWG, rather than IDWG%, was an independent risk factor for IDH in heavy men (Beta = 0.585, P < 0.001) and heavy women (Beta = 0.458, P < 0.001).

Conclusions:  Absolute IDWG, rather than IDWG%, is an independent risk factor for IDH in heavy haemodialysis patients. Therefore, higher absolute IDWG needs to be strictly controlled despite the corresponding IDWG% possibly being relatively small in heavy haemodialysis patients.
Interactions between native and invasive gecko lizards in tropical Australia
Authors: YANG DAODE , GONZÁLEZ‐BERNAL EDNA , GREENLEES MATTHEW , SHINE RICHARD
Published: November 2011

Invasive geckos of the genus Hemidactylus (Gekkonidae) are spreading rapidly through urban environments in many tropical and subtropical parts of the world. The invaders have caused rapid declines in native gecko abundance in some areas, but their interactions with Australian native species remain unknown. In a small rural village near Darwin, we found that Hemidactylus frenatus is abundant around both lighted and unlighted buildings, but rarely found in surrounding bushland. It is sympatric with the larger Gehyra australis (Gekkonidae) in this disturbed site, and often forages on the same buildings, but is active mostly during the dry‐season (vs. wet‐season for G. australis) and is competitively subordinate to the larger native species. In laboratory encounters, H. frenatus fled from G. australis, and modified its refuge‐site use in the presence of the native lizard. In those same trials, the native gecko often attacked and rarely fled; and did not shift its refuge‐site selection. In field surveys, the two taxa frequently co‐occurred. However, substrate use of the invasive H. frenatus was modified by the presence of the native G. australis, consistent with competitive displacement. Our counts of H. frenatus were highest during the dry‐season, when G. australis (like most other small native reptiles) is relatively inactive. The invasive gecko thus appears to be exploiting a ‘vacant niche’ around buildings, rather than displacing the native gecko taxon. This outcome may reflect the size disparity between the native species and the invader; Hemidactylus frenatus may well have significant ecological impacts on smaller native lizards.
Scaling and structure of dicotyledonous leaf venation networks
Authors: Price Charles A. , Wing Scott , Weitz Joshua S.
Published: November 2011

Ecology Letters, (2011)

There have been numerous attempts to derive general models for the structure and function of resource delivery networks in biology. Such theories typically predict the quantitative structure of vascular networks across scales. For example, fractal branching models of plant structure predict that the network dimensions within plant stems or leaves should be scale‐free. However, very few empirical examples of such networks are available with which to evaluate such hypotheses. Here, we apply recently developed leaf network extraction software to a global leaf dataset. We find that leaf networks are neither entirely scale‐free nor governed entirely by a characteristic scale. Indeed, we find many network properties, such as vein length distributions, which are governed by characteristic scales, and other network properties, notably vein diameter distributions, which are typified by power‐law behaviour. Our findings suggest that theories of network structure will remain incomplete until they address the multiple constraints on network architecture.
Androgen deprivation therapy before radical prostatectomy is associated with poorer postoperative erectile function outcomes
Authors: Mazzola Clarisse R. , Deveci Serkan , Heck Matthias , Mulhall John P.
Published: November 2011

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Erectile dysfunction is a recognized complication of radical prostatectomy. Androgen deprivation therapy adversely impacts sexual function.

Our study shows that the preoperative use of androgen deprivation therapy significantly reduces erectile function recovery after radical prostatectomy. The underneath pathophysiological mechanisms for this to occur are reviewed.

OBJECTIVE

To define the impact of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), undergone before radical prostatectomy (RP), on erectile function (EF) recovery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 38 consecutive patients presenting to a sexual medicine clinic after undergoing RP who had received ADT before RP (ADT+ group) were compared with a contemporary, age and comorbidity‐matched cohort of 94 patients who did not receive ADT (ADT‐ group) before undergoing RP.

Medical records were reviewed for demographics, comorbidity profiles and duration of ADT exposure.

All the patients underwent Doppler penile ultrasonography within 6 months of RP and were administered the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire.

All the patients underwent evaluation of EF recovery. We analysed the incidence of venous leak (VL), mean IIEF EF domain score and proportion of men with EF domain scores ≥24 at 18 months after RP.

RESULTS

The mean age, comorbidity profiles, median Gleason score, median pre‐treatment PSA level, and mean time to evaluation after RP were similar between the two groups.

The median duration of ADT exposure in the ADT+ group was 3 months.

The incidence of VL within 6 months of surgery was 60% for the ADT+ and 20% for the ADT‐ group (P < 0.001). Likewise, the IIEF EF domain scores and proportion of men with EF domain scores ≥24 at 18 months were significantly lower in the ADT+ group, even when controlled for nerve‐sparing status.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that preoperative use of ADT adversely impacts EF outcomes and should therefore be avoided in the absence of robust data suggesting any oncological benefit.
Detection, localisation and characterisation of prostate cancer by Prostate HistoScanning™
Authors: Simmons Lucy A.M. , Autier Philippe , Zát'ura Frantiŝek , Braeckman Johan , Peltier Alexandre , Romic Imre , Stenzl Arnulf , Treurnicht Karien , Walker Tara , Nir Dror , Moore Caroline M. , Emberton Mark
Published: November 2011

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Prostate cancer is one of the few solid‐organ cancers in which imaging is not used in the diagnostic process. Novel functional magnetic resonance imaging techniques offer promise but may not be cost‐effective.

Prostate HistoScanning™ (PHS) is an ultrasound‐based tissue characterisation technique that has previously shown encouraging results in the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer. The present study reports on the open ‘unblinded’ phase of a European multicentre study. The prospective ‘blind’ phase is currently in progress and will determine the value of PHS in a robust fashion overcoming many of the biases inherent in evaluating prostate imaging.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the ability of prostate HistoScanning™ (PHS) an ultrasound (US)‐based tissue characterization application, to detect cancer foci by correlating results with detailed radical prostatectomy (RP) histology.

PATIENT AND METHODS

In all, 31 patients with organ‐confined prostate cancer, diagnosed on transrectal biopsies taken using US guidance, and scheduled for RP were recruited from six European centres.

Before RP three‐dimensional (3D) US raw data for PHS analysis was obtained. Histology by Bostwick Laboratories (London) examined sections obtained from whole mounted glands cut every 3–4 mm.

Location and volume estimation of cancer foci by PHS were undertaken using two methods; a manual method and an embedded software tool.

In this report we evaluate data obtained from a planned open study phase. The second phase of the study is ‘blinded’, and currently in progress.

RESULTS

31 patients were eligible for this phase. Three patients were excluded from analysis due to inadequate scan acquisition and pathology violations of the standard operating procedure. One patient withdrew from the study after 3D TRUS examination.

PHS detected cancer ≥0.20 mL in 25/27 prostates (sensitivity 93%).

In all, 23 patients had an index focus ≥0.5 mL at pathology, of which 21 were identified as ≥0.5 mL by PHS using the manual method (sensitivity 91%) and 19 were correctly identified as ≥0.5 mL by the embedded tool (sensitivity 83%).

In 27 patients, histological analysis found 32 cancerous foci ≥0.2 mL, located in 97 of 162 sextants. After sextant analysis, PHS showed a 90% sensitivity and 72% specificity for the localisation of lesions ≥0.2 mL within a sextant.

CONCLUSIONS

PHS has the ability to identify and locate prostate cancer and consequently may aid in pre‐treatment and pre‐surgical planning.

In men with a lesion identified, it has potential to enable improved targeting, allowing better risk stratification by obtaining more representative cores.

However further verification from the results of the blinded phase of this study are awaited.
STEM CELL TREATMENTS IN CHINA: RETHINKING THE PATIENT ROLE IN THE GLOBAL BIO‐ECONOMY
Authors: CHEN HAIDAN , GOTTWEIS HERBERT
Published: November 2011

The paper looks in detail at patients that were treated at one of the most discussed companies operating in the field of untried stem cell treatments, Beike Biotech of Shenzhen, China. Our data show that patients who had been treated at Beike Biotech view themselves as proactively pursuing treatment choices that are not available in their home countries. These patients typically come from a broad variety of countries: China, the United Kingdom, the United States, South Africa and Australia. Among the patients we interviewed there seemed to be both an awareness of the general risks involved in such experimental treatments and a readiness to accept those risks weighed against the possible benefits. We interpret this evidence as possibly reflecting the emergence of risk‐taking patients as ‘consumers’ of medical options as well as the drive of patients to seek treatment options in the global arena, rather than being hindered by the ethical and regulatory constraints of their home countries. Further, we found that these patients tend to operate in more or less stable networks and groups in which they interact and cooperate closely and develop opinions and assessments of available treatment options for their ailments. These patients also perform a multiple role as patients, research subjects, and research funders because they are required to pay their way into treatment and research activities. This new social dynamics of patienthood has important implications for the ethical governance of stem cell treatments.
Optical Analysis of Strength Tests Based on Block‐Matching Techniques
Authors: Rodriguez Alvaro , Rabuñal Juan R. , Pérez Juan L. , Martínez‐Abella Fernando
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  One of the main issues in civil engineering is to analyze the behavior of materials in strength tests. Traditionally, information about displacements and strains in the materials is carried out from these tests using physical devices such as strain gauges or other transducers.

Although these devices provide accurate and robust measurements in a wide range of situations, they are limited to obtaining measurements in a single point of the material and in a single direction of the movement, thus, the global behavior of the material cannot be analyzed.

The proposed technique consists of the integration of a calibration process with a block‐matching algorithm to measure displacements from images. This algorithm uses the similarity between regions in the images to extract the 2D vector displacement field from each point, and to quantify the strain on the surface of the material.

The proposed algorithm has been designed to measure displacements from real images of material surfaces taken during strength tests, and it has the advantages of being robust with long‐range displacements, of performing the analysis on the image space domain (avoiding the problems related to the use of Fourier Transforms), and of measurements in long sequences related to a real point of the material and not to a pixel position.
The effects of landscape fragmentation on pollination dynamics: absence of evidence not evidence of absence
Authors: Hadley Adam S. , Betts Matthew G.
Published: November 2011

Animal‐mediated pollination is essential for both ecosystem services and conservation of global biodiversity, but a growing body of work reveals that it is negatively affected by anthropogenic disturbance. Landscape‐scale disturbance results in two often inter‐related processes: (1) habitat loss, (2) disruptions of habitat configuration (i.e. fragmentation). Understanding the relative effects of such processes is critical in designing effective management strategies to limit pollination and pollinator decline. We reviewed existing published work from 1989 to 2009 and found that only six of 303 studies considering the influence of landscape context on pollination separated the effects of habitat loss from fragmentation. We provide a synthesis of the current landscape, behavioural, and pollination ecology literature in order to present preliminary multiple working hypotheses explaining how these two landscape processes might independently influence pollination dynamics. Landscape disturbance primarily influences three components of pollination interactions: pollinator density, movement, and plant demography. We argue that effects of habitat loss on each of these components are likely to differ substantially from the effects of fragmentation, which is likely to be more complex and may influence each pollination component in contrasting ways. The interdependency between plants and animals inherent to pollination systems also has the possibility to drive cumulative effects of fragmentation, initiating negative feedback loops between animals and the plants they pollinate. Alternatively, due to their asymmetrical structure, pollination networks may be relatively robust to fragmentation. Despite the potential importance of independent effects of habitat fragmentation, its effects on pollination remain largely untested. We postulate that variation across studies in the effects of ‘fragmentation’ owes much to artifacts of the sampling regimes adopted, particularly (1) incorrectly separating fragmentation from habitat loss, and (2) mis‐matches in spatial scale between landscapes studied and the ecological processes of interest. The field of landscape pollination ecology could be greatly advanced through the consideration and quantification of the matrix, landscape functional connectivity, and pollinator movement behaviour in response to these elements. Studies designed to disentangle the independent effects of habitat loss and fragmentation are essential for gaining insight into landscape‐mediated pollination declines, implementing effective conservation measures, and optimizing ecosystem services in complex landscapes.
Molecular heterogeneity in the choroid plexus epithelium: the 22‐member γ‐protocadherin family is differentially expressed, apically localized, and implicated in CSF regulation
Authors: Lobas Mark A. , Helsper Lindsey , Vernon Claire G. , Schreiner Dietmar , Zhang Yong , Holtzman Michael J. , Thedens Daniel R. , Weiner Joshua A.
Published: November 2011

J. Neurochem. (2012) 120, 913–927.

The choroid plexus (CP) epithelium develops from the ependyma that lines the ventricular system, and plays a critical role in the development and function of the brain. In addition to being the primary site of CSF production, the CP maintains the blood–CSF barrier via apical tight junctions between epithelial cells. Here we show that the 22‐member γ‐protocadherin (γ‐Pcdh) family of cell adhesion molecules, which we have implicated previously in synaptogenesis and neuronal survival, is highly expressed by both CP epithelial and ependymal cells, in which γ‐Pcdh protein localization is, surprisingly, tightly restricted to the apical membrane. Multi‐label immunostaining demonstrates that γ‐Pcdhs are excluded from tight junctions, basolateral adherens junctions, and apical cilia tufts. RT‐PCR analysis indicates that, as a whole, the CP expresses most members of the Pcdh‐γ gene family. Immunostaining using novel monoclonal antibodies specific for single γ‐Pcdh proteins shows that individual epithelial cells differ in their apically localized γ‐Pcdh repertoire. Restricted mutation of the Pcdh‐γ locus in the choroid plexus and ependyma leads to significant reductions in ventricular volume, without obvious disruptions of epithelial apical‐basal polarity. Together, these results suggest an unsuspected role for the γ‐Pcdhs in CSF production and demonstrate a surprising molecular heterogeneity in the CP epithelium.
Acute encephalopathy in children with Dravet syndrome
Authors: Okumura Akihisa , Uematsu Mitsugu , Imataka George , Tanaka Manabu , Okanishi Tohru , Kubota Tetsuo , Sudo Akira , Tohyama Jun , Tsuji Megumi , Ohmori Iori , Naiki Misako , Hiraiwa‐Sofue Ayako , Sato Hitoshi , Saitoh Shinji , Shimizu Toshiaki
Published: November 2011

Purpose:  The occurrence of acute encephalopathy in children with Dravet syndrome has been reported sporadically. This study clarified the features of acute encephalopathy in children with Dravet syndrome.

Methods:  Through the mailing list of the Annual Zao Conference on Pediatric Neurology, we collected 15 patients with clinically diagnosed Dravet syndrome, who had acute encephalopathy, defined as a condition with decreased consciousness with or without other neurologic symptoms, such as seizures, lasting for >24 h in association with infectious symptoms.

Key Findings:  There were seven boys and eight girls. A mutation of the SCN1A gene was present in nine (truncation in six and missense in three). The frequency of seizures during the 3 months before the onset of acute encephalopathy was monthly in seven children and none in three. The median age at the onset of acute encephalopathy was 44 months (range 8–184 months). All children had status epilepticus followed by coma as the initial manifestation. Two different distributions of brain lesions were observed on diffusion‐weighted images during the acute phase: cerebral cortex–dominant lesions with or without deep gray matter involvement and subcortical‐dominant lesions. Four children died; nine survived with severe sequelae, and two had moderate sequelae.

Significance:  We must be aware that acute encephalopathy is an important complication in children with Dravet syndrome, and associated with fulminant clinical manifestations and a poor outcome.
Methodology of photic stimulation revisited: Updated European algorithm for visual stimulation in the EEG laboratory
Authors: Kasteleijn‐Nolst Trenité Dorothée , Rubboli Guido , Hirsch Edouard , Martins da Silva Antonio , Seri Stefano , Wilkins Arnold , Parra Jaime , Covanis Athanasios , Elia Maurizio , Capovilla Giuseppe , Stephani Ulrich , Harding Graham
Published: November 2011

Intermittent photic stimulation (IPS) is a common procedure performed in the electroencephalography (EEG) laboratory in children and adults to detect abnormal epileptogenic sensitivity to flickering light (i.e., photosensitivity). In practice, substantial variability in outcome is anecdotally found due to the many different methods used per laboratory and country. We believe that standardization of procedure, based on scientific and clinical data, should permit reproducible identification and quantification of photosensitivity. We hope that the use of our new algorithm will help in standardizing the IPS procedure, which in turn may more clearly identify and assist monitoring of patients with epilepsy and photosensitivity. Our algorithm goes far beyond that published in 1999 (Epilepsia, 1999a, 40, 75; Neurophysiol Clin, 1999b, 29, 318): it has substantially increased content, detailing technical and logistical aspects of IPS testing and the rationale for many of the steps in the IPS procedure. Furthermore, our latest algorithm incorporates the consensus of repeated scientific meetings of European experts in this field over a period of 6 years with feedback from general neurologists and epileptologists to improve its validity and utility. Accordingly, our European group has provided herein updated algorithms for two different levels of methodology: (1) requirements for defining photosensitivity in patients and in family members of known photosensitive patients and (2) requirements for tailored studies in patients with a clear history of visually induced seizures or complaints, and in those already known to be photosensitive.
Use of Fraction Flow Reserve to Predict Changes over Time in Management of Superficial Femoral Artery
Authors: LOTFI A.S. , SIVALINGAM S.K. , GIUGLIANO G.R. , ASHRAF J. , VISINTAINER P.
Published: November 2011

Background:

Peripheral arterial disease is a condition characterized by progressive arterial narrowing, which affects patients’ quality of life. The purposes of this study were to (1) establish the feasibility of obtaining peripheral fractional flow reserve (pFFR) in the peripheral vascular circulation, (2) demonstrate an association between baseline pFFR and peak systolic velocity (PSV) measured by duplex ultrasound, and (3) correlate postintervention pFFR with future restenosis using the change in PSV over time as a surrogate.

Methods:

Twenty patients underwent baseline ankle brachial index (ABI) and PSV testing. Pre‐ and postintervention pFFR was performed. Patients were followed with three ABI and PSV recordings during the 1 year follow‐up period. The association between baseline PSV, ABI, and pFFR with changes in PSV over time were explored. Predictors of postprocedural PSV over time were determined.

Results:

The baseline translesional‐resting ratio was significantly different from the pFFR using adenosine (0.79 ± 0.08 vs. 0.71 ± 0.09, P = 0.01). Baseline PSV was significantly associated with preintervention pFFR (–0.77, P < 0.001). Compared to patients with a postprocedure pFFR > 0.95, patients with a postprocedure pFFR < 0.95 had a significantly more rapid rise in PSV over time (P = 0.009).

Conclusion:

This is the first study to demonstrate that the peripheral vascular bed does respond to vasodilatation thereby supporting the use of pFFR for this procedure. In our study, postintervention pFFR < 0.95 predicted a more rapid increase in PSV over time, which is a reasonably accepted surrogate for restenosis. (J Interven Cardiol 2012;25:71–77)
Topical pimecrolimus effect on Fas inducing apoptosis in oral lichen planus: a clinical immunohistochemical study
Authors: Ibrahim Suzan S. , Hazzaa Hala H.
Published: November 2011

J Oral Pathol Med (2012) 41: 315–321

Objective:  To investigate the effectiveness of pimecrolimus treatment in patients not responding to corticosteroid treatment and to investigate its effect on Fas expression on keratinocytes in oral lichen planus (OLP).

Subjects and Methods:  Twenty patients with OLP were recruited from the Oral Medicine Clinic at the School of Dentistry, Ain Shams University, Egypt. Pimecrolimus 1% cream with a hydrophilic adhesive gel base was applied to the oral lesions, four times daily, for a total of 2 months. A marker lesion was identified and assessed by clinical scoring (CS). The symptomatology score was obtained using a visual analog scale (VAS). Pre‐treatment and post‐treatment specimens were immunohistochemically stained for detecting Fas.

Results:  The results of clinical scores showed statistically high significant improvement (P = 0.0001). The mean VAS decreased significantly over time as well as the mean of Fas expression (P < 0.05). The overall percentage of reduction from baseline to week 8 was 87%, 93%, and 67% for clinical scores, visual analog score, and Fas expression, respectively.

Conclusions:  Topical pimecrolimus reduced Fas expression, and it appears to be a promising alternative treatment for OLP.
Comminuted mandibular fracture in child victim of dog bite
Authors: de Carvalho Matheus Furtado , Hardtke Luiz Augusto Paixão , de Souza Max Filipe Cota , de Oliveira Araujo Vasco
Published: November 2011

Abstract –  Dog bites represent lesions commonly found in Hospital Emergency Clinic. This type of lesion may cause severe harm to patients, but it rarely affects the underlying bone structure causes facial fracture. This study aims to illustrate a rare clinical case in which a pediatric patient presented a comminuted fracture in the mandible which evolved into a unilateral avulsion of the mandibular condyle, body fractures as well as a mandibular ramus and hemiface that had been deformed, with multiple lacerations and loss of soft‐tissue mass. Intermaxillary fixation was performed using the Ivy method, followed by internal rigid fixation using miniplates and screws in attempt to reconstruct the child’s mandible. After 2 years of follow‐up, a satisfactory esthetics and functional results could be observed.
Open cap splint with circummandibular wiring for management of pediatric mandibular parasymphysis/symphysis fracture as a definitive treatment modality; a case series
Authors: Kale Tejraj P. , Urologin Sarvesh B. , Kapoor Abhishek , Lingaraj J. B. , Kotrashetti Sharadindu M.
Published: November 2011

Abstract –  Management of pediatric maxillofacial injuries is mainly governed by their psychological, physiological, developmental, and anatomical characteristics. Pediatric mandibular fractures can have variable etiologies but have similar manifestations as those in adult patients. There are various treatment modalities to treat mandibular parasymphysis/symphysis fractures in children, which have their own limitations and complications. We currently describe our experience with open cap splint as a treatment modality which involves fewer risks in treating 10 pediatric parasymphysis/symphysis mandibular fractures.
Serum metabolites, ghrelin and leptin are modified by age and/or diet in weanling kittens fed either a high‐ or moderate‐protein diet
Authors: VESTER Brittany M. , BELSITO Katherine R. , SWANSON Kelly S.
Published: November 2011

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of in utero and postnatal exposure of a high‐protein (HP; n = 9) or moderate‐protein (MP; n = 16) diet on growth, and serum metabolite, ghrelin and leptin concentrations during the first 4 months of life in kittens. It was hypothesized that blood indices would be modified due to diet. Blood samples were collected from kittens at 4, 8, 12 and 16 weeks of age. Kittens were weaned at 8 weeks of age onto the same diet as the dam. Body weight was measured weekly from birth and daily food intake for each litter was recorded post‐weaning. Serum concentrations of urea nitrogen, total protein and triglycerides were greater (P < 0.05) in kittens fed the HP diet. Serum cholesterol concentrations were greater (P < 0.05) in MP‐fed kittens at 4 weeks of age. Moderate‐protein fed kittens tended to have greater (P < 0.10) serum ghrelin concentrations. Leptin concentrations were not affected by diet, but changed over time (P < 0.05). Our data indicate that diet and age of kittens affect circulating concentrations of peptides important in appetite regulation. Further research testing the effects of in utero and early postnatal nutrient exposure on feline obesity risk in adulthood is needed.
Immunological characteristics and response to lipopolysaccharide of mouse lines selectively bred with natural and acquired immunities
Authors: NARAHARA Hiroki , SAKAI Eri , KATAYAMA Masafumi , OHTOMO Yukiko , YAMAMOTO Kanako , TAKEMOTO Miki , ASO Hisashi , OHWADA Shyuichi , MOHRI Yasuaki , NISHIMORI Katsuhiko , ISOGAI Emiko , YAMAGUCHI Takahiro , FUKUDA Tomokazu
Published: November 2011

Genetic improvement of resistance to infectious diseases is a challenging goal in animal breeding. Infection resistance involves multiple immunological characteristics, including natural and acquired immunity. In the present study, we developed an experimental model based on genetic selection, to improve immunological phenotypes. We selectively established three mouse lines based on phagocytic activity, antibody production and the combination of these two phenotypes. We analyzed the immunological characteristics of these lines using a lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which is one of the main components of Gram‐negative bacteria. An intense immunological reaction was induced in each of the three mouse lines. Severe loss of body weight and liver damage were observed, and a high level of cytokine messenger RNA was detected in the liver tissue. The mouse line established using a combination of the two selection standards showed unique characteristics relative to the mouse lines selected on the basis of a single phenotype. Our results indicate that genetic selection and breeding is effective, even for immunological phenotypes with a relatively low heritability. Thus, it may be possible to improve resistance to infectious diseases by means of genetic selection.
EFFECTS OF PARTIAL AND COMPLETE REPLACEMENT OF SODIUM CHLORIDE WITH POTASSIUM CHLORIDE ON THE TEXTURE, FLAVOR AND WATER‐HOLDING CAPACITY OF MARINATED BROILER BREAST FILLETS
Authors: LEE Y.S. , ZHEKOV Z.G. , OWENS C.M. , KIM M. , MEULLENET J.F.
Published: November 2011

Experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of varying concentrations of sodium chloride (NaCl) and potassium chloride (KCl) on the quality of marinated broiler breast fillets. Fillets were deboned at 2‐h postmortem and marinated with a 15% solution containing water, different concentrations of NaCl or KCl and 0.45% sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP). Fillets were vacuum marinated in different NaCl or KCl concentrations. The tenderness of marinated fillets was instrumentally assessed by the Meullenet–Owens razor shear. Water‐holding capacity, including marinade uptake, retention, thaw loss and cook loss, was also evaluated. Significant improvements in tenderness, thaw loss and cook loss were observed as the amounts of NaCl increased compared with the control (STPP only). Replacing greater than 50% of NaCl with KCl resulted in significant decreases in tenderness; however, no significant changes were observed for all instrumental and sensory characteristics below this level. Replacement levels did not significantly decrease retention and thaw loss, while cook loss increased with the increase in KCl concentrations.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This research would be of benefit to poultry processors who would like to know the optimal level of potassium chloride (KCl) in an effort to reduce the amount of sodium for marinating broiler breast meat. It is concluded that a maximum of 50% of KCl could be used with a minimal change of qualities in marinating broiler breast meat.
ULTRASOUND‐ASSISTED OSMOTIC DEHYDRATION OF CRANBERRIES: EFFECT OF FINISH DRYING METHODS AND ULTRASONIC FREQUENCY ON TEXTURAL PROPERTIES
Authors: SHAMAEI SAMIRA , EMAM‐DJOMEH ZAHRA , MOINI SOHRAB
Published: November 2011

In this study, the effect of osmotic pretreatments (with or without ultrasound) in combination with hot‐air or microwave‐assisted hot‐air drying methods on the texture, microstructure, color and water activity of dried cranberries were investigated. Osmotic pretreatments were done in a ternary solution (sucrose–NaCl–water) under three different temperatures: 30, 40 and 50C. The concentrations of osmotic solutions were 40, 50 and 60% of sucrose and 0, 4 and 8% of NaCl. Also, the influence of the two levels of frequency of ultrasound (35 and 130 kHz) on the quality properties was investigated. Our results showed lower hardness and water activity (aw) when higher temperature, sucrose and salt were used. Applying ultrasound reduced the hardness and aw of samples. With increasing the frequency of ultrasound, hardness (N) and aw were decreased. Microwave energy reduced drying time and can modify the structure, texture strength and color of the final product.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Cranberry contains high levels of phytochemicals, which have health‐promoting properties. Some of these phytochemicals, such as anthocyanins, act as an antioxidant, reducing the oxidative damage to cells, which can lead to cancer, heart disease and other degenerative diseases. Recently, cranberry products have been used with the hope of preventing or treating urinary tract infections or Helicobacter pylori infections, which can lead to stomach ulcers, or to prevent dental plaque. Osmotic dehydration is a suitable way to produce shelf‐stable products or partially dehydrated foods without enduring heat damage. The osmotically dehydrated cranberries can be consumed as healthy snacks or can be suited to a wide range of food formulations, including jams or sweets.
RHEOLOGICAL STUDY OF BREAKFAST REPLACING RECIPES USED IN THE TREATMENT OF DYSPHAGIA
Authors: CLAES JOHAN E. , DE MAESSCHALCK LIEVEN , HUYSMANS VEERLE , VAN EYCK HANNE , SCHITTECAT SOPHIE , PASTUER MIEKE , MOLDENAERS PAULA
Published: November 2011

The rheological properties of a new breakfast concept for demented elderly are evaluated. Seven different recipes are compared, mainly consisting of milk, pudding, soft cheese, rusks and a taste ingredient. These recipes have a well‐balanced nutritional profile and show an improved swallowing act for the patients.

The rheological characteristics can be summarized as thixotropic, shear thinning and having gel‐like behaviour. The thixotropic behaviour and the viscosity range are comparable with those of commercially available fluid thickeners. Although the seven recipes do not differ in the swallowing act of the patients, their characteristic viscosities are within a range of one order of magnitude. In addition, the same recipe prepared several times may yield statistically different viscosities as well. This is probably due to the high volume fraction of particles in the products. Standardization of the recipe preparation with respect to viscosity is therefore very difficult.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The present work describes the rheological properties of breakfast recipes that are suitable for demented elderly with dysphagia. The practical applications are twofold. Scientists will gain more insight into the required rheological characteristics of the food products for demented elderly who encounter swallowing problems. This enhances further research to develop food‐based solutions for dysphagia. It will also assist in the development of new recipes (for breakfasts or other meals). On the other hand, the food industry can use this research in the development of food products that are intended for this population.
EFFECTS OF LOW‐ AND ULTRALOW‐TEMPERATURE FREEZING ON RETROGRADATION AND TEXTURAL PROPERTIES OF RICE STARCH GEL DURING STORAGE
Authors: YU SHIFENG , MA YING , ZHENG XI‐QUN
Published: November 2011

In the current research, rice starch gel was frozen by low temperature (−20, −30 and −60C) or ultralow temperature (−100C), and then stored at 4C for 21 days or −18C for up to 5 months to evaluate the retrogradation and textural properties. Retrogradation enthalpy (ΔHr) of rice starch was determined by a differential scanning calorimetry, and textural properties were determined by a texture analyzer. The results showed that low‐temperature and ultralow‐temperature freezing can effectively retard starch retrogradation during freezing process, while the freezing process has no significant influence on the thermal properties of rice amylose‐lipid complex during storage. On the other hand, retrogradation and textural properties of rice starch gel were related to amylose and amylopectin ratio when stored. Therefore, the amylose and amylopectin properties and freezing process have a synergistic effect on retrogradation and textural properties of rice starch gel during storage.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Starch retrogradation is an unavoidable phenomenon for the texture of many ready meals, which is a major problem for industry to produce high‐quality starch‐based ready‐to‐eat meals. The low‐ and ultralow‐temperature freezing combined with frozen storage can effectively retard rice starch retrogradation and maintain the textural properties of rice starch gel for at least 5 months, and this optimum method is very useful for food industry to produce high‐quality starchy foods.
Courts between Democracy and Hybrid Authoritarianism: Evidence from the Venezuelan Supreme Court
Authors: Sanchez Urribarri Raul A.
Published: November 2011

This article offers a theoretical discussion about courts in “hybrid regimes” that evolve from formerly democratic countries. The evolution toward authoritarianism typically allows governments more latitude to reduce judicial independence and judicial power. Yet, several reasons, including legitimacy costs, a tradition of using courts for judicial adjudication and social control, and even the use of courts for quenching dissent may discourage rulers from shutting down the judicial contestation arena and encourage them instead to appeal to less overbearing measures. This usually leads to a decline of the judiciary's proclivity to challenge the government, especially in salient cases. To illustrate these dynamics, I discuss the rise and fall of judicial power in Venezuela under Chávez's rule, focusing on the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court. Formerly the most powerful institution in the country's history, the Chamber briefly emerged as an influential actor at the beginning of the regime, but a comprehensive intervention of the judiciary in 2004 further politicized the court and effectively reduced its policy-making role.
Chalcidoid wasps parasitizing pupae of fallwebworm, Hyphantria cunea (Drury), in South Korea
Authors: Kim Il‐Kwon , Park Young‐Kyu , Koh Sang‐Hyun
Published: November 2011

Three of chalcidoid wasps are newly reported as pupal parasitoids of the fallwebworm to Korea: Tetrastichus septentrionalis Yang and Chouioia cunea Yang (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Eulophidae); Dirhinus sp. (near D. anthracia) (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Chalcididae). Two eulophids were first described as pupal parasitoids of the fallwebworm from China and have been used as biological control agents against the moth for many years. Both species display distinctive sexual dimorphism in male. Apart from the color of legs and antennae, Dirhinus sp. agrees well with the description of D. anthracia. It remains as Dirhinus sp. at present as it requires further comparative study on morphology between our parasitoid and D. anthracia.