bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing the spatial distribution of dose in X-ray macromolecular crystallography
Authors: Zeldin Oliver B. , Gerstel Markus , Garman Elspeth F.
Published: November 2012

X-ray data collection for macromolecular crystallography can lead to highly inhomogeneous distributions of dose within the crystal volume for cases when the crystal is larger than the beam or when the beam is non-uniform (Gaussian-like), particularly when crystal rotation is fully taken into account. Here the spatial distribution of dose is quantitatively modelled in order to compare the effectiveness of two dose-spreading data-collection protocols: helical scanning and translational collection. Their effectiveness in reducing the peak dose per unit diffraction is investigatedviasimulations for four common crystal shapes (cube, plate, long and short needles) and beams with a wide range of full width half maximum values. By inspection of the chosen metric, it is concluded that the optimum strategy is always to use as flat (top-hat) a beam as possible and to either match the beam size in both dimensions to the crystal, or to perform a helical scan with a beam which is narrow along the rotation axis and matched to the crystal size along the perpendicular axis. For crystal shapes where this is not possible, the reduction in peak dose per unit diffraction achieved through dose spreading is quantified and tabulated as a reference for experimenters.
Global radiation damage: temperature dependence, time dependence and how to outrun it
Authors: Warkentin Matthew , Hopkins Jesse B. , Badeau Ryan , Mulichak Anne M. , Keefe Lisa J. , Thorne Robert E.
Published: November 2012

A series of studies that provide a consistent and illuminating picture of global radiation damage to protein crystals, especially at temperatures above ∼200 K, are described. The radiation sensitivity shows a transition near 200 K, above which it appears to be limited by solvent-coupled diffusive processes. Consistent with this interpretation, a component of global damage proceeds on timescales of several minutes at 180 K, decreasing to seconds near room temperature. As a result, data collection times of order 1 s allow up to half of global damage to be outrun at 260 K. Much larger damage reductions near room temperature should be feasible using larger dose rates delivered using microfocused beams, enabling a significant expansion of structural studies of proteins under more nearly native conditions.
Pigments versus structure: examining the mechanism of age‐dependent change in a carotenoid‐based colour
Authors: Evans Simon R. , Sheldon Ben C.
Published: November 2012

Within‐population colour variation is widespread in animals, yet the determinants of variable coloration have been relatively neglected by ecologists.

Age‐dependent expression of conspicuous coloration is prevalent, particularly in birds. Such patterns can be generated by multiple combinations of demographic heterogeneity or within‐individual change; longitudinal analyses are necessary to establish the importance of these processes.

Further, although pigment‐based colours are composite traits, produced by multiple component mechanisms (e.g. feather microstructure and carotenoid pigmentation), the contributions of these mechanisms to components of age dependence are rarely considered, even though doing so may yield information about the ecological causes for age‐dependent coloration.

We used a large‐scale, longitudinal study of carotenoid‐based plumage coloration in great tits (Parus major) to show age dependence of plumage coloration is driven almost exclusively by within‐individual effects in the first 2 years of life.

Using wavelength‐specific analyses, we show that feather microstructure, while sensitive to annual variation, is independent of age, with increased carotenoid deposition driving changes in coloration. However, estimates of local carotenoid availability did not explain the change in coloration within individuals, suggesting that pigment availability may not be limiting.

We thus show that it is individual‐level changes in the pigment component of carotenoid‐based coloration that determines age‐dependent colour expression in great tits. More generally, our study highlights the utility of wavelength‐specific analyses in determining the mechanisms underlying changes in expression of composite colour traits.
Shedding light on light: benefits of anthropogenic illumination to a nocturnally foraging shorebird
Authors: Dwyer Ross G. , Bearhop Stuart , Campbell Hamish A. , Bryant David M.
Published: November 2012

Intertidal habitats provide important feeding areas for migratory shorebirds. Anthropogenic developments along coasts can increase ambient light levels at night across adjacent inter‐tidal zones. Here, we report the effects of elevated nocturnal light levels upon the foraging strategy of a migratory shorebird (common redshank Tringa totanus) overwintering on an industrialised estuary in Northern Europe.

To monitor behaviour across the full intertidal area, individuals were located by day and night using VHF transmitters, and foraging behaviour was inferred from inbuilt posture sensors. Natural light was scored using moon‐phase and cloud cover information and nocturnal artificial light levels were obtained using geo‐referenced DMSP/OLS night‐time satellite imagery at a 1‐km resolution.

Under high illumination levels, the commonest and apparently preferred foraging behaviour was sight‐based. Conversely, birds feeding in areas with low levels of artificial light had an elevated foraging time and fed by touch, but switched to visual rather than tactile foraging behaviour on bright moonlit nights in the absence of cloud cover. Individuals occupying areas which were illuminated continuously by lighting from a large petrochemical complex invariably exhibited a visually based foraging behaviour independently of lunar phase and cloud cover.

We show that ambient light levels affect the timing and distribution of foraging opportunities for redshank. We argue that light emitted from an industrial complex improved nocturnal visibility. This allowed sight‐based foraging in place of tactile foraging, implying both a preference for sight‐feeding and enhanced night‐time foraging opportunities under these conditions. The study highlights the value of integrating remotely sensed data and telemetry techniques to assess the effect of anthropogenic change upon nocturnal behaviour and habitat use.
Compensation and additivity of anthropogenic mortality: life‐history effects and review of methods
Authors: Péron Guillaume
Published: November 2012

Demographic compensation, the increase in average individual performance following a perturbation that reduces population size, and, its opposite, demographic overadditivity (or superadditivity) are central processes in both population ecology and wildlife management. A continuum of population responses to changes in cause‐specific mortality exists, of which additivity and complete compensation constitute particular points. The position of a population on that continuum influences its ability to sustain exploitation and predation.

Here I describe a method for quantifying where a population is on the continuum. Based on variance–covariance formulae, I describe a simple metric for the rate of compensation–additivity.

I synthesize the results from 10 wildlife capture–recapture monitoring programmes from the literature and online databases, reviewing current statistical methods and the treatment of common sources of bias.

These results are used to test hypotheses regarding the effects of life‐history strategy, population density, average cause‐specific mortality and age class on the rate of compensation–additivity. This comparative analysis highlights that long‐lived species compensate less than short‐lived species and that populations below their carrying capacity compensate less than those above.
A decision framework for considering climate change adaptation in biodiversity conservation planning
Authors: Oliver Tom H. , Smithers Richard J. , Bailey Sallie , Walmsley Clive A. , Watts Kevin
Published: November 2012

General principles of climate change adaptation for biodiversity have been formulated, but do not help prioritize actions. This is inhibiting their integration into conservation planning.

We address this need with a decision framework that identifies and prioritizes actions to increase the adaptive capacity of species. The framework classifies species according to their current distribution and projected future climate space, as a basis for selecting appropriate decision trees.

Decisions rely primarily on expert opinion, with additional information from quantitative models, where data are available. The framework considers in‐situ management, followed by interventions at the landscape scale and finally translocation or ex‐situ conservation.

Synthesis and applications: From eight case studies, the key interventions identified for integrating climate change adaptation into conservation planning were local management and expansion of sites. We anticipate that, in combination with consideration of socio‐economic and local factors, the decision framework will be a useful tool for conservation and natural resource managers to integrate adaptation measures into conservation plans.
Partaking of Archaea to biogeochemical cycling in oxygen‐deficient zones of meromictic saline Lake Faro (Messina, Italy)
Authors: La Cono Violetta , La Spada Gina , Arcadi Erika , Placenti Francesco , Smedile Francesco , Ruggeri Gioacchino , Michaud Luigi , Raffa Carmen , De Domenico Emilio , Sprovieri Mario , Mazzola Salvatore , Genovese Lucrezia , Giuliano Laura , Slepak Vladlen Z. , Yakimov Michail M.
Published: November 2012

We used a combination of molecular and microbiological approaches to determine the activity, abundance and diversity of archaeal populations inhabiting meromictic saline Lake Faro (Messina, Italy). Analysis of archaeal 16S rRNA, amoA, accA and hbd genes and transcripts revealed that sub‐ and anoxic layers of Lake Faro are primarily inhabited by the organisms related to the clusters of Marine Group I.1a of Thaumarchaeota frequently recovered from oxygen‐depleted marine ecosystems. These organisms dominated the metabolically active archaea down to the bottom of the lake, indicating their adaptation to recurrent changes in the levels of water column hypoxia. The upper microaerobic layer of Lake Faro redoxcline has the maximal rates of dark primary production much lower than those of other previously studied pelagic redoxclines, but comparable to the values of meso‐ and bathypelagic areas of Mediterranean Sea. Application of bacterial inhibitors, especially azide, significantly declined the CO2 fixation rates in the low interface and monimolimnion, whereas archaea‐specific inhibitor had effect only in upper part of the redoxcline. Based on these findings, we hypothesize that dark bicarbonate fixation in suboxic zone of Lake Faro results mainly from archaeal activity which is affected by the predicted lack in oxygen in lower layers.
Pre‐pregnancy body mass index, weight change during pregnancy, and risk of intellectual disability in children
Authors: Mann JR , McDermott SW , Hardin J , Pan C , Zhang Z
Published: November 2012

Objective

This study investigated pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and weight change in pregnancy as potential risk factors for intellectual disability (ID) in children.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

South Carolina, USA.

Population

A total of 78 675 mother–child pairs, insured by the South Carolina Medicaid programme, born in the period 2004–2007.

Methods

We analysed South Carolina Medicaid data, linked to data from both the South Carolina Department of Education (DOE) and the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DDSN). Maternal pre‐pregnancy BMI and weight change during pregnancy were obtained from birth certificates. ID cases were identified from the three sources listed above. We used generalised estimating equation logistic regression models to model the odds of ID in children.

Main outcome measures

Identified as having ID in special education, DDSN, or Medicaid billing records.

Results

The risk of ID was greater in children of women with pre‐pregnancy obesity, and the risk was greatest in children born to women with morbid obesity (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.30–1.77 for ID of any severity; OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.23–2.45 for severe ID). Gestational weight change (gain or loss) was not significantly associated with odds of ID.

Conclusions

Pre‐pregnancy obesity may be a modifiable risk factor for ID in children, although further study is needed to evaluate whether the association meets criteria for causation.
Pleomorphic adenoma presenting with a mediastinal mass
Authors: Lee Young Kyung , Kim Yee Hyung , Kim Gou Young , Youn Hyo Chul
Published: November 2012

Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common type of salivary gland tumor. Although it rarely affects the trachea and bronchus, it usually grows in the airway and presents as an endobronchial mass. We recently experienced a case of pleomorphic adenoma originating in the bronchus and growing outward into the mediastinum. We present this case with review of the computed tomography (CT) scan of the patient's chest, the endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and the histopathology report.
Programmable, miniature video‐loggers for deployment on wild birds and other wildlife
Authors: Rutz Christian , Troscianko Jolyon
Published: November 2012

Animal‐borne miniature video cameras hold the potential to revolutionise field ornithological research, with their ability to collect detailed behavioural data from a bird's eye view, in places and contexts where conventional observation techniques would fail.

Here, we describe the development of a new generation of solid‐state video‐loggers that are cheap, light‐weight, programmable and easy to use and that overcome many problems associated with earlier transmission‐based technologies.

Our loggers weigh c. 12·3–13·6 g fully packaged for deployment and record up to 94 min of video footage, at 640 × 480 pixels and 19·7 frames per second, on a 4‐GB micro‐SD card. Loggers are fitted with a custom‐designed, microprocessor‐controlled timer that enables flexible duty‐cycling, switching the unit on and off following a preprogrammed schedule. Packaged loggers contain a miniature very high frequency (VHF) radio‐tag (battery life c. 5–9 weeks) for positional tracking of the bird before, during and after scheduled video shoots, and to enable logger recovery for data download.

To make our loggers suitable for deployment on wild birds, we developed novel techniques: (i) for the light‐weight packaging of electronics (thin sheets produced from thermoplastic) and (ii) for the attachment of units to, and their controlled release from, subjects (UV‐sensitive, rapidly degrading rubber tubing). Loggers can be manufactured at comparatively low cost (components are c. 94 GBP, plus c. 145 GBP for the VHF radio‐tag) and are easily refurbished after recovery, making the technology suitable for large‐scale deployments and projects on modest research budgets.

A study in 2009/2010, with logger deployments on 19 wild New Caledonian crows Corvus moneduloides, demonstrated that our new technology is field‐worthy and that it can generate rich data sets on the foraging behaviour, habitat use and social interactions of an elusive bird species.

The young field of wildlife video‐tracking is maturing quickly, and in only a few years, technology has advanced sufficiently to enable cost‐effective, hypothesis‐driven field studies of terrestrial birds, mammals and reptiles. Large‐scale deployment of video‐loggers can generate data sets of unprecedented information content, promising major quantitative insights in basic and applied ecology.
Familial mediterranean fever – an increasingly important childhood disease in Sweden
Authors: Wekell P , Friman V , Balci‐Peynircioglu B , Yilmaz E , Fasth A , Berg S
Published: November 2012

Aim

To characterize Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) in western Sweden, focusing on genotype, clinical picture, prevalence and age of onset as well as time to diagnosis.

Methods

Patients with autoinflammatory diseases are continuously registered at the five main hospitals in Western Sweden. Case records of patients with FMF were analysed retrospectively. Population data on immigration was retrieved from Statistics Sweden.

Results

Until 2008, 37 patients with FMF were identified. The prevalence among inhabitants of Turkish, Lebanese, Syrian and Iranian origin was 173, 124, 86 and 17/100 000, respectively. Median age at first symptoms was 4 years (range 3 month–37 years) and at diagnosis 10 years (range 2–44 years). Median time from first symptoms to diagnosis was 4 years (range <1 year–34 years). Among 32 patients screened for twelve common mutations, 75% were homozygotes or compound heterozygotes, 16% were heterozygotes and in 9% no mutation was found. In our cohort the frequencies of symptoms were fever 100%, peritonitis 92%, pleuritis 22% and arthritis 11%.

Conclusions

The majority of patients with FMF present during childhood. The prevalence among immigrants in western Sweden is in the same range as in their country of origin. Time to diagnosis needs to be shortened by means of increased awareness of the disease.
Physical and social functioning in adolescents with rheumatological conditions: a study of predictors
Authors: Gauntlett‐Gilbert Jeremy , Kavirayani Akhila , Clinch Jacqui
Published: November 2012

Aim

This study examines possible predictors of physical and social functioning in adolescents with rheumatological conditions. Condition‐related variables and psychosocial variables were studied, and their relative contribution as predictors was examined.

Methods

The study population was one hundred and twelve adolescents (11–18 years) attending secondary and tertiary paediatric rheumatology outpatient clinics in south‐west England. These adolescents completed validated self‐report accounts of disease history, pain and functioning (condition‐related variables) and the Bath Adolescent Pain Questionnaire (psychosocial variables). Correlation and regression analyses were used to establish influences on physical and social functioning, examining condition‐related variables and psychosocial variables as separate blocks.

Results

Physical functioning was independently associated with age at onset, intensity of pain, presence of depression and pain‐specific anxiety. Social functioning was only associated with general anxiety. The presence of an inflammatory diagnosis had no bearing on optimal functioning in this study.

Conclusion

Condition‐related variables (age at onset, pain intensity) and psychosocial variables (depression, pain‐specific anxiety) were equally important for physical functioning, whereas psychosocial variables (general anxiety) were more influential for social functioning. Understanding the impact of disease and associated variables in the adolescent rheumatology population should optimize targeted multidisciplinary rehabilitation for the young person and their family.
Rodlet cells in epidermal explant cultures of Lepomis Macrochirus
Authors: DePasquale Joseph A.
Published: November 2012

Sunfish rodlet cells were examined in vitro using a novel tissue explant system. Outgrowth of epidermal cell layers from explanted fish scales enabled both live cell videomicroscopy and immunocytochemical analysis of rodlet cells within the cell layer. Cells stained with fluorescent phallotoxin and antibody to tubulin showed that F‐actin is a component of the fibrous capsule that envelopes the cell and a microtubule network extends from the basal to apical ends of the cell interior. The fibrous capsule is also enriched for phosphotyrosine suggesting a potential signal‐transducing capability is present in this structure. Videomicroscopy analysis of live explant cultures demonstrated that rodlet cells are immobile and that interior structures are highly dynamic. Rodlet sacs can undergo extension and retraction, while intracellular particles can move rapidly within these cells. Fish scale tissue explants provide a useful system for analyzing the molecular composition and dynamic behavior of rodlet cells.
Evaluation of seasonality in the diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia among adults in the United States, 1992–2008
Authors: Calip Gregory S. , McDougall Jean A. , Wheldon Mark C. , Li Christopher I. , De Roos Anneclaire J.
Published: November 2012

Recent studies have suggested seasonal variation in the diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), and the aetiological role seasonal factors may play in this group of haematological neoplasms remains unclear. We evaluated potential seasonality of AML diagnosis among adults. Cases included were ascertained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) 13 registries from 1992–2008. Chi‐square analysis for heterogeneity and multiple Poisson regression using parametric harmonic modelling and bootstrap testing were used to detect possible monthly variation. Months of peak diagnoses were December and January, although some variation was present by sex and age. Heterogeneity across months was statistically significant (P < 0·001). In stratified analyses, monthly variation was detected only among males (P = 0·009) and in cases aged 65 years and older (P = 0·031). Poisson regression found no seasonal effect among all cases when fit to the sinusoidal model (P = 0·110). However, similar variation among males (P = 0·009) and cases aged 65 years and older (P = 0·018) was present. There is growing evidence of seasonality in AML diagnosis, particularly among older persons and men. Investigation of specific seasonal risk factors would be informative in explaining the aetiology behind the observed variation.
Transcellular tunnel dynamics: Control of cellular dewetting by actomyosin contractility and I‐BAR proteins
Authors: Lemichez Emmanuel , Gonzalez‐Rodriguez David , Bassereau Patricia , Brochard‐Wyart Françoise
Published: November 2012

Dewetting is the spontaneous withdrawal of a liquid film from a non‐wettable surface by nucleation and growth of dry patches. Two recent reports now propose that the principles of dewetting explain the physical phenomena underpinning the opening of transendothelial cell macroaperture (TEM) tunnels, referred to as cellular dewetting. This was discovered by studying a group of bacterial toxins endowed with the property of corrupting actomyosin cytoskeleton contractility. For both liquid and cellular dewetting, the growth of holes is governed by a competition between surface forces and line tension. We also discuss how the dynamics of TEM opening and closure represent remarkable systems to investigate actin cytoskeleton regulation by sensors of plasma membrane curvature and investigate the impact on membrane tension and the role of TEM in vascular dysfunctions.
Citrus fruit and fabacea secondary metabolites potently and selectively block TRPM3
Authors: Straub I , Mohr F , Stab J , Konrad M , Philipp SE , Oberwinkler J , Schaefer M
Published: November 2012

Background and Purpose

The melastatin‐related transient receptor potential TRPM3 is a calcium‐permeable nonselective cation channel that can be activated by the neurosteroid pregnenolone sulphate (PregS) and heat. TRPM3‐deficient mice show an impaired perception of noxious heat. Hence, drugs inhibiting TRPM3 possibly get in focus of analgesic therapy.

Experimental Approach

Fluorometric methods were used to identify novel TRPM3‐blocking compounds and to characterize their potency and selectivity to block TRPM3 but not other sensory TRP channels. Biophysical properties of the block were assessed using electrophysiological methods. Single cell calcium measurements confirmed the block of endogenously expressed TRPM3 channels in rat and mouse dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurones.

Key Results

By screening a compound library, we identified three natural compounds as potent blockers of TRPM3. Naringenin and hesperetin belong to the citrus fruit flavanones, and ononetin is a deoxybenzoin. Eriodictyol, a metabolite of naringenin and hesperetin, was still biologically active as a TRPM3 blocker. The compounds exhibited a marked specificity for recombinant TRPM3 and blocked PregS‐induced [Ca2+]i signals in freshly isolated DRG neurones.

Conclusion and Implications

The data indicate that citrus fruit flavonoids are potent and selective blockers of TRPM3. Their potencies ranged from upper nanomolar to lower micromolar concentrations. Since physiological functions of TRPM3 channels are still poorly defined, the development and validation of potent and selective blockers is expected to contribute to clarifying the role of TRPM3 in vivo. Considering the involvement of TRPM3 in nociception, TRPM3 blockers may represent a novel concept for analgesic treatment.
Estimating animal population density using passive acoustics
Authors: Marques Tiago A. , Thomas Len , Martin Stephen W. , Mellinger David K. , Ward Jessica A. , Moretti David J. , Harris Danielle , Tyack Peter L.
Published: November 2012

Reliable estimation of the size or density of wild animal populations is very important for effective wildlife management, conservation and ecology. Currently, the most widely used methods for obtaining such estimates involve either sighting animals from transect lines or some form of capture‐recapture on marked or uniquely identifiable individuals. However, many species are difficult to sight, and cannot be easily marked or recaptured. Some of these species produce readily identifiable sounds, providing an opportunity to use passive acoustic data to estimate animal density. In addition, even for species for which other visually based methods are feasible, passive acoustic methods offer the potential for greater detection ranges in some environments (e.g. underwater or in dense forest), and hence potentially better precision. Automated data collection means that surveys can take place at times and in places where it would be too expensive or dangerous to send human observers.

Here, we present an overview of animal density estimation using passive acoustic data, a relatively new and fast‐developing field. We review the types of data and methodological approaches currently available to researchers and we provide a framework for acoustics‐based density estimation, illustrated with examples from real‐world case studies. We mention moving sensor platforms (e.g. towed acoustics), but then focus on methods involving sensors at fixed locations, particularly hydrophones to survey marine mammals, as acoustic‐based density estimation research to date has been concentrated in this area. Primary among these are methods based on distance sampling and spatially explicit capture‐recapture. The methods are also applicable to other aquatic and terrestrial sound‐producing taxa.

We conclude that, despite being in its infancy, density estimation based on passive acoustic data likely will become an important method for surveying a number of diverse taxa, such as sea mammals, fish, birds, amphibians, and insects, especially in situations where inferences are required over long periods of time. There is considerable work ahead, with several potentially fruitful research areas, including the development of (i) hardware and software for data acquisition, (ii) efficient, calibrated, automated detection and classification systems, and (iii) statistical approaches optimized for this application. Further, survey design will need to be developed, and research is needed on the acoustic behaviour of target species. Fundamental research on vocalization rates and group sizes, and the relation between these and other factors such as season or behaviour state, is critical. Evaluation of the methods under known density scenarios will be important for empirically validating the approaches presented here.
Factors associated with serum thyroglobulin levels in a population living in Belarus
Authors: Cahoon Elizabeth K. , Rozhko Alexander , Hatch Maureen , Polyanskaya Olga , Ostroumova Evgenia , Tang Min , Nadirov Eldar , Yauseyenka Vasilina , Savasteeva Irina , McConnell Robert J. , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Brenner Alina V.
Published: November 2012

Objective

Serum thyroglobulin (Tg) has been associated with a number of thyroid disorders and has been proposed as an indicator of iodine deficiency in a population. However, few studies have addressed the epidemiology of Tg in a population‐based setting or in the context of exposure to radioactive iodine‐131 (I‐131). Our objective was to evaluate baseline levels of Tg in relation to sociodemographic characteristics, iodine status and thyroid function for individuals exposed to I‐131.

Design

A population‐based cohort assembled in Belarus following the Chornobyl accident provided demographic factors, clinical data and physiological measurements.

Participants

Our analytical sample included 10 344 subjects of whom 7890 had no thyroid disease and 2454 had evidence of structural or functional thyroid abnormality.

Measurements

Standardized assays were used to measure serum Tg, urinary iodine, TSH and antibodies to Tg and thyroid peroxidase. Ultrasound was used to assess the presence of nodules and estimate thyroid volume.

Results

In the fully adjusted model, percent change in Tg was significantly increased among females, smokers and subjects of older age and Tg increased with decreasing urinary iodine concentration, increasing serum TSH and increasing thyroid volume (P‐values for trend <0·0001), and presence of thyroid nodules (P < 0·05). We found a complex interaction between region of residence, rural/urban living, presence/absence of thyroid abnormalities and serum Tg (P < 0·0001).

Conclusions

In residents of Belarus, serum Tg is significantly related to presence of thyroid abnormalities as well as indicators of thyroid function and iodine deficiency and, therefore, could be used to characterize the iodine status and thyroid function of individuals in the context of epidemiological study.
What is the best approach to tailoring hydrocortisone dose to meet patient needs in 2012?
Authors: Debono Miguel , Ross Richard J.
Published: November 2012

Cortisol is an essential stress hormone and replacement with oral hydrocortisone is lifesaving in patients with adrenal insufficiency. Cortisol has a diurnal rhythm regulated by the central body clock and this rhythm is a metabolic signal for peripheral tissue clocks. Loss of cortisol rhythmicity is associated with fatigue, depression and insulin resistance. A general principle in endocrinology is to replace hormones to replicate physiological concentrations; however, the pharmacokinetics of oral immediate‐release hydrocortisone make it impossible to fully mimic the cortisol rhythm and patients still have an increased morbidity and mortality despite replacement. Traditionally, physicians have replaced hydrocortisone with a total daily dose based on the diurnal 24‐h cortisol production rate with hydrocortisone given twice or thrice daily, with the highest dose first thing in the morning. Monitoring treatment and dose titration has been much debated with some clinicians using cortisol day curves and others relying on clinical symptoms. The main challenge is that there is no established biomarker of cortisol activity. In addressing the clinical question, we have taken the view that an understanding of the cortisol circadian rhythm and hydrocortisone pharmacokinetics is essential when tailoring hydrocortisone dose. Using this approach, we have developed a thrice daily, weight‐related, dosing regimen and a pharmacokinetic and clinical method to monitor treatment. Our argument for replicating the cortisol circadian rhythm is based on the observation that disruption of the rhythm is associated with ill health, and the few studies that have compared different treatment regimens. Further studies are required to definitively test the benefits of replacing the cortisol circadian rhythm in patients with adrenal insufficiency.
Minimally Invasive Sinus Lift Implant Device: A Multicenter Safety and Efficacy Trial Preliminary Results
Authors: Better Hadar , Slavescu Dragos , Barbu Horia , Cochran David L. , Chaushu Gabi
Published: November 2012

Purpose

In cases of advanced maxillary sinus atrophy of the bone (pneumatization), the sinus floor has to be augmented in order to obtain acceptable bone volume for implantation. The objective of the present study is to evaluate a new procedure and device, designed as a closed sinus lift using a dedicated dental implant that allows for Schneiderian membrane elevation and the placement of a flowable bone replacement graft.

Materials and Methods

Eighteen patients (8 males, 10 females) underwent 23 procedures. All procedures were completed successfully, with elevation of the sinus membrane and insertion of bone graft and the dental implant at the planned site. No membrane tears were noted. No intraoperative or postoperative adverse events were observed in any of the cases. There were no postprocedural emergency or distress calls.

Results

The patients' average age was 52 (range 38–72). The mean residual alveolar ridge height was 5.5 mm (range 4.0–7.0). The average bone gain was 11.2 mm (range 9–13) after an average healing period of 8.7 months (range 6.7–13.1). All implants achieved clinical stability and prosthetic rehabilitation was uneventful.

Conclusions

A closed sinus floor elevation procedure can be accomplished using a dedicated dental implant that allows for hydraulic elevation of the Schneiderian membrane and placement of a flowable bone replacement graft and dental implant placement all at the same time with minimal patient discomfort.
Phylogenetic relationships of the Australasian shrubby everlastings Ozothamnus and Cassinia (Asteraceae: Asteroideae: Gnaphalieae)
Authors: Schmidt‐Lebuhn Alexander N. , Constable Lee
Published: November 2012

The first comprehensive phylogenetic study of the Australasian shrubby everlastings Ozothamnus, Cassinia, and their satellite genera is presented based on the nuclear ribosomal external and internal transcribed spacer and three chloroplast spacer regions (matK‐psbA, psbA‐trnH, ycf6‐pbsM). While the hypothesis of the monophyly of the sequence copies found in Cassinia cannot be rejected, sequences from Ozothamnus are found to be non‐monophyletic in three possible taxonomic circumscriptions of that genus. Cassinia, Calomeria, Odixia and Haeckeria are nested in a narrowly circumscribed Ozothamnus. Ozothamnus section Hebelaena, a sub‐shrubby group long recognized as potentially misplaced in the genus, is more heterogeneous than expected and is found to be potentially polyphyletic. Perhaps more surprisingly, a group of four species previously considered part of “core” Ozothamnus is found to be more closely related to other genera. It includes the subalpine “cascade everlastings” of south‐eastern Australia. Although many characters traditionally used for the delimitation of genera are homoplasious, connivent involucral bracts and presence of paleae are synapomorphies for Cassinia. Except for the robust shrubby habit, no morphological synapomorphy for core Ozothamnus/Cassinia is currently evident. Future studies are needed to test these results with additional data, to identify morphological and anatomical synapomorphies for individual clades and to resolve species‐level relationships with more extensive sampling to address the possibilities of incomplete lineage sorting or reticulate evolution.
Family Representatives in Family Firms
Authors: Chen En‐Te , Gray Stephen , Nowland John
Published: November 2012

Manuscript Type

Empirical

Research Question/Issue

Family control in family firms can extend beyond the direct involvement of family members, but identifying these mechanisms is difficult in most markets. We utilize unique disclosures made by Taiwanese firms to examine the role played by family representatives in listed family firms. Family representatives are non‐family members that represent the controlling family's indirect shareholdings in the firm. We examine whether family representatives are used in the same manner as family members and whether they provide net benefits or costs to shareholders.

Research Findings/Insights

In our sample of listed family firms, we find that omitting family representatives understates the influence of controlling families by 46 percent. We show that family representatives are associated with net costs to shareholders, but to a lesser extent than family members. We also find that controlling families use family members and family representatives differently. Family members are more involved in older family firms and in firms founded by the family. Family representatives are more involved in acquired and second generation family firms and in larger firms with more fixed assets.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

We apply agency theory to the use of family representatives and show that family representatives are being used by controlling families to extend their influence within their firms, increasing agency costs to minority shareholders.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

For policymakers, our analysis shows that disclosure of family member and representative relationships within firms is important and value‐relevant to investors. Furthermore, our results suggest that firm performance could be improved by limiting the involvement of family members and family representatives in family firms.
Right Atrial Appendage Thrombus Found in a Patient in Normal Sinus Rhythm with Normal Right Ventricular Systolic Function
Authors: Falcone Adam M. , Matter Gregory J. , Schussler Jeffrey M.
Published: November 2012

A 79‐year‐old woman underwent transesophageal echocardiography to evaluate the severity of her mitral regurgitation prior to urgent bypass. Evaluation of the right‐sided chambers was notable for a mass in the right atrial appendage (RAA). Surgical excision and pathologic examination proved this to be a thrombus. This is the first reported case of a RAA thrombus in a patient with normal sinus rhythm and normal right ventricular (RV) function. It illustrates that complete transesophageal studies may sometimes demonstrate incidental findings, and that right atrial thrombus can (rarely) be found in patients in sinus rhythm with normal RV function.
Diel patterns of autotrophic and heterotrophic respiration among phenological stages
Authors: Savage K. , Davidson E. A. , Tang J.
Published: November 2012

Improved understanding of the links between aboveground production and allocation of photosynthate to belowground processes and the temporal variation in those links is needed to interpret observations of belowground carbon cycling processes. Here, we show that combining a trenching manipulation with high‐frequency soil respiration measurements in a temperate hardwood forest permitted identification of the temporally variable influence of roots on diel and seasonal patterns of soil respiration. The presence of roots in an untrenched plot caused larger daily amplitude and a 2–3 h delay in peak soil CO2 efflux relative to a root‐free trenched plot. These effects cannot be explained by differences in soil temperature, and they were significant only when a canopy was present during the growing season. This experiment demonstrated that canopy processes affect soil CO2 efflux rates and patterns at hourly and seasonal time scales, and it provides evidence that root and microbial processes respond differently to environmental factors.
Salience and Complexity in Supranational Policymaking: The Case of Subnational Interests
Authors: Neshkova Milena I.
Published: November 2012

This study examined whether Gormley's insights about the effects of public salience and technical complexity on the patterns of participation in the regulatory process have explanatory power in an international setting. Specifically, I tracked 60 legislative proposals initiated by the European Commission and estimated the change made by the supranational technocrats in response to the requests of subnational politicians. I found support for the theoretical propositions about the differentiated effect of salience and complexity on political and administrative actors. Consistent with the notion of bureaucratic expertise, the Commission is less responsive when the policy issues require expertise to be tackled efficiently. Although the European Union has been pursuing various mechanisms to democratize its policy process, the technical character of supranational regulation precludes the broader public and elected politicians from assuming a larger role and bureaucracy will continue to be a major player in the international arena.
Serum RANTES level influences the response to pegylated interferon and ribavirin therapy in chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Komase Kazuki , Maekawa Shinya , Miura Mika , Sueki Ryota , Kadokura Makoto , Shindo Hiroko , Shindo Kuniaki , Amemiya Fumitake , Nakayama Yasuhiro , Inoue Taisuke , Sakamoto Minoru , Yamashita Atsuya , Moriishi Kohji , Enomoto Nobuyuki
Published: November 2012

Aim

Prediction of treatment responses to pegylated interferon (PEG IFN) plus ribavirin (RBV) therapy is uncertain for genotype 1b chronic hepatitis C.

Methods

In this study, 96 patients were investigated for the correlation between 36 pretreatment serum chemokine/cytokine levels and PEG IFN/RBV treatment efficacy by a sandwich enzyme‐linked immunoassay (ELISA) and a bead array.

Results

First, chemokines/cytokines were measured semiquantitatively by sandwich ELISA in 31 randomly‐selected patients and the serum regulated on activation normal T‐cell expressed and secreted (RANTES) level was found to be significantly higher in the sustained virological response (SVR) group than the non‐SVR group (P = 0.048). Precise RANTES measurement in all 96 patients using a bead array confirmed this correlation (P = 0.002). However, the genetic RANTES haplotype was not significantly related to the serum level. The serum RANTES level was extracted by multivariate analysis (odds ratio = 4.09, 95% confidence interval = 1.02–16.5, P = 0.048) as an independent variable contributing to SVR.

Conclusion

The serum RANTES level is an important determinant influencing the virological response to PEG IFN/RBV therapy in chronic hepatitis C.
Phenolic profile, antioxidant and antiproliferative activity of black and red currants (Ribes spp.) from organic and conventional cultivation
Authors: Aneta Wojdyło , Jan Oszmiański , Magdalena Milczarek , Joanna Wietrzyk
Published: November 2012

The effect of cultivation system on phenolic profile, antioxidant capacity and antiproliferation activity in black and red currants was evaluated. Results from this study showed that Ribes fruit grown in organic system posses significantly higher total phenolics, especially anthocyanins, and antioxidant activity (DPPH and FRAP) than fruit grown in conventional system. Phenolic compounds were systematically identified and characterised by UPLC/MS Q‐TOF. The mean value of total polyphenol content in organically grown currants was similar but statistically higher compared with the conventional cultivation (11831.0 and 1543.0 mg/kg of d.m., respectively). The total values of the anthocyanins in ‘Ben Hope’, ‘Ben Alder’, ‘Titania’ and ‘Rondom’ from organic and conventional farms were 1044.5 vs. 1012.4; 1568.3 vs. 1260.4; 1417.2 vs. 1382.2; and 51.8 vs. 57.9 mg kg−1 of d.m., respectively. Conventionally grown red currant had higher anthocyanin content than organically grown red currant (11.8%) but, however, organic fruits of red currant had 2.7 times higher content of oligomeric procyanidins than fruits coming from conventional cultivation. DPPH radical scavenging activity of currant varied from 28.29 to 37.08 mmol Trolox kg−1 (mean 31.20) for organic fruits and from 12.67 to 31.18 mmol Trolox kg−1 (mean 25.76) for conventional fruits. Moreover, all currants from organic cultivation possess higher ferric reducing capacity than conventionally grown fruits. It appeared that extracts of red Ribes cv. ‘Rondom’ coming from organic cultivation revealed stronger antiproliferative effect in comparison with conventional cultivation. However, a similar profile of activity was observed for ‘Ben Hope’, ‘Ben Alder’ and ‘Titania’ independently of the type of cultivation. These results indicate that the cultivation technique had important effect on the ranking of the cultivar systems.
Development of whey‐fruit‐based energy drink mixes using D‐optimal mixture design
Authors: Shiby Varghese Kochupurakkal , Radhakrishna Kolpe , Bawa Amarinder Singh
Published: November 2012

The study deals with two whey‐fruit‐based energy drink mixes developed using freeze drying. D‐optimal mixture design with 2 factors at 5 levels was used for the optimisation of ingredients. The responses studied were overall acceptability and acidity of the formulations. The whey/grape juice and whey/pomegranate juice ratios selected on the basis of response analysis was 49:51 and 40:60, respectively. The energy drinks were freeze‐dried and packed in paper/Al foil/polythene (PFP) pouches were stored at ambient temperature as well as 37 ○C. Periodic evaluation revealed that whey‐grape and whey‐pomegranate energy drink mixes had a shelf life of 9 and 8 months, respectively. The addition of caffeine at 200 ppm level did not impart any adverse change in sensory quality.
The effects of temperature and pH on the extraction of oxalate and pectin from green kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa L.), golden kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis L.), kiwiberry (Actinidia arguta) and persimmon (Diospyros kaki)
Authors: Nguyễn Hà VHồng , Savage Geoffrey Peter
Published: November 2012

Oxalates and pectin were extracted from four locally grown fruits at three different pH levels, 6.9, 0.6 and −0.3, at two different temperatures, 21 and 80 °C. Green kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa L. Hayward), golden kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis L. Hort 16A Zespri), kiwiberry (Actinidia arguta, CV. Takaka Green) and persimmon (Diospyros kaki) contained moderate levels of oxalates. Total and soluble oxalates were more efficiently extracted at 21 °C using 2 m HCL, while the highest amounts of pectin were extracted from the fruits at 80 °C using 0.2 m HCL. Extraction using 0.2 and 2 m HCL gave the highest yields of total oxalates, which ranged from 47.1 to 220.4 mg total oxalates per 100 g dry matter (DM) for persimmon and kiwiberry, respectively. Extraction using water at 21 °C gave soluble oxalate contents ranging from 21.2 mg 100 g−1 DM, for persimmon, to 105.0 mg 100−1 DM, for kiwiberry fruits. Extraction of pectin was not achieved efficiently using water at either temperature, while extraction using 2 m HCL gave lower values; optimal extractions of pectin were achieved at 80 °C using 0.2 m HCL.