bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Metformin compared with hypocaloric diet on serum C‐reactive protein level and insulin resistance in obese and overweight women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Esfahanian Fatemeh , Zamani Mohammad Mahdi , Heshmat Ramin , Moini nia Fatemeh
Published: December 2012

Aim

The aim of the present study was to investigate the efficacy of Metformin compared with a hypocaloric diet on C‐reactive protein (CRP) level and markers of insulin resistance in obese and overweight women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Material and Methods

Forty women with body mass index ≥ 27 and PCOS were randomly allocated to receive either Metformin or hypocaloric diet and were assessed before and after a treatment period of 12 weeks. High‐sensitivity CRP (hs‐CRP) and markers of insulin resistance (IR), homeostasis model assessment‐IR, quantitative insulin‐sensitivity check index and fasting glucose to insulin ratio were evaluated in each patient.

Results

A total of 10 subjects did not complete the trial (three patients in the Metformin group and seven patients in the diet group) and a total of 30 subjects completed the trial (17 subjects in the Metformin group and 13 subjects in the diet group). Serum concentration of hs‐CRP significantly decreased in both the Metformin (5.29 ± 2.50 vs 3.81 ± 1.99, P = 0.008) and diet groups (6.08 ± 2.14 vs 4.27 ± 1.60, P = 0.004). There were no significant differences in mean hs‐CRP decrement between the two groups. Decrease in hs‐CRP levels was significantly correlated with waist circumference in the diet group (r = 0.8, P < 0.001). The effect of a hypocaloric diet with 5–10% weight reduction on markers of insulin resistance (homeostasis model assessment‐IR, fasting glucose to insulin ratio, quantitative insulin‐sensitivity check index) was better than Metformin therapy (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Although weight reduction has equal efficacy with Metformin in decreasing serum hs‐CRP levels, it was significantly more effective in improving insulin resistance in obese and overweight PCOS women.
Successful pregnancy outcome in a woman with untreated ectopia vesicae: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Mandal Apurba , Chaudhuri Snehamay , Manna Satyendu Sekhar , Jana Swapan Kumar , Biswas Titol , Das Souvik
Published: December 2012

We report the case of a pregnancy in a 25‐year‐old woman who was born with ectopia vesicae and split pelvis, but had not undergone any reconstructive or diversion surgery in childhood. Her antenatal period was uneventful and the infant was delivered by cesarean section at term due to breech presentation. The baby had no congenital anomalies. The postoperative period was uneventful and they were discharged from the hospital in a good general condition.
Grave outcome of granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor‐producing endometrial cancer: A case report and literature review
Authors: Yamamoto Kasumi , Mabuchi Seiji , Yamasaki Masato , Yoshimura Michiko , Murata Yuji
Published: December 2012

Granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF)‐producing nonhematopoietic malignancies have been reported in various organs, and most of them have been associated with poor clinical outcome. However, because of the rarity of reported cases, information regarding G‐CSF‐producing gynecological malignancies, especially uterine corpus cancer, is limited. We report a case of G‐CSF‐producing endometrial cancer, which exhibited a grave clinical outcome. Our case strongly indicates the aggressive nature of G‐CSF‐producing endometrial cancer.
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure as a life event that impacts on postmenopausal women
Authors: Giannella Luca , Mfuta Kabala , Lamantea Ruggiero , Boselli Fausto , Torrini Barbara , Prandi Sonia
Published: December 2012

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare the psychological impact of loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) in pre‐ and postmenopausal women.

Material and Methods

This was an observational comparative study including 231 pre‐ and 108 post‐menopausal women undergoing LEEP who were subjected to an interview inquiring specific psychological domains concerning the impact of this surgical procedure. The associations between women's answers and their hormonal status were tested by logistic regression analysis.

Results

Multivariate analysis showed that after LEEP, postmenopausal women were associated with answers that indicated significant psychological changes concerning the impact of cervix disease (Odds Ratio [OR] = 2.38, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 1.22–4.66), their body image (OR = 6.80, 95% CI 2.30–20.08), interpersonal relationship with their partner (OR = 8.32, 95% CI 1.77–38.99) and sexual health quality (OR = 2.25, 95% CI 1.15–4.39).

Conclusion

Limited to our sample, the psychological impact of LEEP seems to be greater in postmenopausal than in premenopausal women. We speculate that LEEP could cause failure of psychological domains already weakened by menopause.
A Bayesian Approach to Complex Clinical Diagnoses: A Case-Study in Child Abuse
Authors: Best Nicky , Ashby Deborah , Dunstan Frank , Foreman David , McIntosh Neil
Published: December 2012

Clinical diagnosis is often a complex task of decision making in the face of uncertainty. Diagnosis of child abuse is a particular example where misdiagnosis in either direction is very serious. We have developed a formal Bayesian methodology to quantify the intrinsic uncertainty in complex clinical diagnostic problems. The motivating case-study was the diagnosis of abuse in an infant presenting with an acute life threatening event and oronasal haemorrhage (nosebleed). Since no direct evidence was available on the probability of abuse given an acute life threatening event and nosebleed, we used Bayes theorem to formulate the diagnosis in terms of prior and inverse conditional probabilities and adapted systematic review methodology and Bayesian evidence synthesis to estimate these and to propagate the associated uncertainty. The estimated probability of abuse was far more uncertain than might be supposed from either expert advice or an informal reading of the literature, and estimates depended crucially on assumptions that were made about the conditional independence of multiple signs of abuse. This highlights the importance of having a formal statistical methodology such as this to assist clinicians in reaching a diagnosis. The process that we worked through is likely to have wider application to other problems of complex clinical diagnosis.
Analysing Interviewer Call Record Data by using a Multilevel Discrete Time Event History Modelling Approach
Authors: Durrant Gabriele B. , D’Arrigo Julia , Steele Fiona
Published: December 2012

In recent years, survey agencies have started to collect detailed call record data, including information on the timing and outcome of each interviewer call to a household. In interview-based household surveys, such information may be used to inform effective interviewer calling behaviours, which are critical in achieving co-operation and reducing the likelihood of refusal. However, call record data can be complex and it is not always clear how best to model such data. We present a general framework for the analysis of call record data by using multilevel event history modelling. A multilevel multinomial logistic regression approach is proposed in which the different possible outcomes at each call are modelled jointly, accounting for the clustering of calls within households and interviewers. Of particular interest are the influences of time varying characteristics on the outcome of a call. The analysis of interviewer call record data is illustrated by using paradata from several face-to-face household surveys with the aim of modelling non-response.
Summary of the recommendations of the EFNS/MDS‐ES review on therapeutic management of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Ferreira J. J. , Katzenschlager R. , Bloem B. R. , Bonuccelli U. , Burn D. , Deuschl G. , Dietrichs E. , Fabbrini G. , Friedman A. , Kanovsky P. , Kostic V. , Nieuwboer A. , Odin P. , Poewe W. , Rascol O. , Sampaio C. , Schüpbach M. , Tolosa E. , Trenkwalder C. , Schapira A. , Berardelli A. , Oertel W. H.
Published: December 2012

Objective

To summarize the 2010 EFNS/MDS‐ES evidence‐based treatment recommendations for the management of Parkinson's disease (PD). This summary includes the treatment recommendations for early and late PD.

Methods

For the 2010 publication, a literature search was undertaken for articles published up to September 2009. For this summary, an additional literature search was undertaken up to December 2010. Classification of scientific evidence and the rating of recommendations were made according to the EFNS guidance. In cases where there was insufficient scientific evidence, a consensus statement (‘good practice point’) is made.

Results and Conclusions

For each clinical indication, a list of therapeutic interventions is provided, including classification of evidence.
Simulation of Changes in Myocardial Tissue Properties During Left Ventricular Assistance With a Rotary Blood Pump
Authors: Martina Jerson R. , Bovendeerd Peter H.M. , de Jonge Nicolaas , de Mol Bas A.J.M. , Lahpor Jaap R. , Rutten Marcel C.M.
Published: December 2012

We considered a mathematical model to investigate changes in geometric and hemodynamic indices of left ventricular function in response to changes in myofiber contractility and myocardial tissue stiffness during rotary blood pump support. Left ventricular assistance with a rotary blood pump was simulated based on a previously published biventricular model of the assisted heart and circulation. The ventricles in this model were based on the one‐fiber model that relates ventricular function to myofiber contractility and myocardial tissue stiffness. The simulations showed that indices of ventricular geometry, left ventricular shortening fraction, and ejection fraction had the same response to variations in myofiber contractility and myocardial tissue stiffness. Hemodynamic measures showed an inverse relation compared with geometric measures. Particularly, pulse pressure and arterial dP/dtmax increased when myofiber contractility increased, whereas increasing myocardial tissue stiffness decreased these measures. Similarly, the lowest pump speed at which the aortic valve remained closed increased when myofiber contractility increased and decreased when myocardial tissue stiffness increased. Therefore, simultaneous monitoring of hemodynamic parameters and ventricular geometry indirectly reflects the status of the myocardial tissue. The appropriateness of this strategy will be evaluated in the future, based on in vivo studies.
Axonal regulation of Schwann cell ensheathment and myelination
Authors: Salzer James L.
Published: December 2012

Axons in the vertebrate peripheral nervous system are intimately associated with Schwann cells. Axons regulate the Schwann cell phenotype, determining whether they myelinate individual axons or ensheathe multiple, small axons in Remak bundles. Our current understanding of the axonal signals that drive Schwann cells towards these distinct morphological and phenotypic fates is briefly reviewed here. Elucidation of these signals, and the intracellular pathways they regulate, may lead to new, rational therapies for the treatment of inherited and acquired neuropathies.
Lessons from Jack Griffin and the “pathogenesis of peripheral nerve disease”
Authors: Trapp Bruce D.
Published: December 2012

This contribution reviews aspects of the 10 years I spent with Dr. Jack Griffin in the Department of Neurology at Johns Hopkins University. It highlights how Jack influenced my research career and changed my focus from a myelin centric basic science researcher to one that had an appreciation of the interdependence of axon and myelin forming cells as it related to the pathogenesis of human demyelinating diseases.
Skin biopsy in painful and immune‐mediated neuropathies
Authors: Lauria Giuseppe , Lombardi Raffaella
Published: December 2012

Starting from the original studies of the 19th century, this review covers some of the advances achieved over the last 15 years since skin biopsy has become a diagnostic tool for neurologists. In a relatively short period of time, focused works demonstrated the correlation between the loss of intraepidermal nerve fibers (IENF) and symptoms and signs of small fiber neuropathy (SFN), and provided standardized protocols for nerve morphometry as well as normative reference values to be used in clinical practice. This contributed to the definition of the diagnostic criteria for SFN that is now recognized as a distinct nosologic entity. The relationship between IENF degeneration and neuropathic pain led to the recent discovery that SFN can be caused by mutations in sodium channels, providing evidence for a new diagnostic approach to the etiology of the disease in patients. The presence of myelinated nerve fibers in the dermis prompted studies focused on demyelinating neuropathies of genetic and immune‐mediated origin. Specific changes in dermal myelinated nerves have been described suggesting a potential role for skin biopsy also in these fields. Finally, studies on the sequence of events occurring after nerve degeneration in experimental models and patients with chronic neuropathies allowed to understand better the ability of skin nerves to regenerate and the reasons for its failure, providing important hints for the use of skin biopsy as an outcome measure in clinical practice and neuroprotective trials.
Axonal transport disruption in peripheral nerve disease
Authors: Lloyd Thomas E.
Published: December 2012

Many neurodegenerative diseases and neuropathies have been proposed to be caused by a disruption of axonal transport. However, the mechanisms whereby impaired transport causes disease remain unclear. Proposed mechanisms include impairment in delivery of organelles such as mitochondria, defective retrograde neurotrophic signaling, and disruption of the synaptic vesicle cycle within the synaptic terminal. Simple model organisms such as the fruitfly, Drosophila melanogaster, allow live imaging of axonal transport to be combined with high‐throughput genetic screens and are providing insights into the pathophysiology of peripheral nerve diseases.
Lessons from the Snowy Slope: Vision and Politics in American Social Insurance
Authors: McGovern Kate
Published: December 2012

The enactment of social insurance, a fundamental departure from means‐tested welfare programs, was born out of the crisis of the Great Depression. Policy options to strengthen Social Security are mathematically simple, but ideologically contentious. Arguments against the program, remarkably consistent since its inception, have been gaining traction in the current political climate. As the debate proceeds, it is useful to examine the history of opposition and review the case for universal social insurance.
The Development of Second Language Writing Complexity in Groups and Individuals: A Longitudinal Learner Corpus Study
Authors: VYATKINA NINA
Published: December 2012

This study explores the development of multiple dimensions of linguistic complexity in the writing of beginning learners of German both as a group and as individuals. The data come from an annotated, longitudinal learner corpus. The development of lexicogrammatical complexity is explored at 2 intersections: (a) between cross‐sectional trendlines and the individual development paths of 2 focal learners and (b) between different complexity variables. The study contributes to the empirical body of linguistic complexity research by close tracking of beginning learners over 4 semesters of collegiate study of German as a second language (L2). For this purpose, data for multiple variables were collected at dense time intervals using multiple waves, and correlation analysis between various datasets was performed. The results confirm some general developmental trends established in previous research. However, the study also found significant variability between individual and cross‐sectional data. Furthermore, differences found for more specific complexity measures between this study's results and previous research are explained in terms of differences in instructional approaches. In addition, the study contributes to the discussion of methods and metrics appropriate for tracking the development of complexity in foreign language writing. The study concludes with implications for L2 pedagogy and further research, including applications of computational methods.
Urban Homeownership and Mental Health: Mediating Effect of Perceived Sense of Control
Authors: Manturuk Kim R.
Published: December 2012

What are the mechanisms responsible for homeowners’ better mental health? Social disorganization theory suggests that the relationship between homeownership and mental health is mediated by perceived sense of control, trust in neighbors, and residential stability. This hypothesis is tested using data collected from respondents in 30 low–wealth urban areas. Using propensity score matching and regression models, I find that low–income homeowners report a greater sense of control and trust in their neighbors than comparable renters. Homeownership likewise has an impact on mental health, but the effect is entirely mediated by perceived sense of control. Part of that mediating effect is related to avoiding serious delinquency in mortgage payments. However, subjective trust and residential mobility did not mediate the relationship between homeownership and mental health. The study findings are discussed in light of the need for a cohesive theory of homeownership, particularly given changing economic realities.
Molecular mechanism(s) of endocrine‐disrupting chemicals and their potent oestrogenicity in diverse cells and tissues that express oestrogen receptors
Authors: Lee Hye‐Rim , Jeung Eui‐Bae , Cho Myung‐Haing , Kim Tae‐Hee , Leung Peter C. K. , Choi Kyung‐Chul
Published: December 2012

Endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are natural or synthetic compounds present in the environment which can interfere with hormone synthesis and normal physiological functions of male and female reproductive organs. Most EDCs tend to bind to steroid hormone receptors including the oestrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and androgen receptor (AR). As EDCs disrupt the actions of endogenous hormones, they may induce abnormal reproduction, stimulation of cancer growth, dysfunction of neuronal and immune system. Although EDCs represent a significant public health concern, there are no standard methods to determine effect of EDCs on human beings. The mechanisms underlying adverse actions of EDC exposure are not clearly understood. In this review, we highlighted the toxicology of EDCs and its effect on human health, including reproductive development in males and females as shown in in vitro and in vivo models. In addition, this review brings attention to the toxicity of EDCs via interaction of genomic and non‐genomic signalling pathways through hormone receptors.
Multidisciplinary evaluation of a critical care enteral feeding algorithm
Authors: REEVES Anneli , WHITE Hayden , SOSNOWSKI Kellie , LEVERITT Michael , DESBROW Ben , JONES Mark
Published: December 2012

Aim:  Feeding algorithms have been demonstrated to improve nutrition delivery and influence primary outcomes in critical care units. Most feeding algorithms assist decision‐making related to initiation of enteral nutrition, use of prokinetics and the mode of delivery of feeding. The algorithm that is the subject of this evaluation enabled nursing staff to select type of feed and target feeding rate for enterally fed patients. The aims of this evaluation were to assess acceptance of the algorithm across disciplines, and to determine if energy and protein intakes achieved were comparable with data reported in an international multi‐centre observational study.

Methods:  Semistructured interviews were conducted with eight nurses, three doctors and three dietitians, to gauge their attitudes towards usefulness of the algorithm. Data on energy and protein intakes was collected for 108 patients using nursing observation records of volume of feed delivered with deductions for discarded aspirates.

Results:  Positive feedback on usability of the algorithm was given by all interview participants. Common themes from the interviews were that the algorithm ‘enabled feeding to start earlier’, ‘was simple to use’ and ‘ensured consistency of approach’. Greater than 80% of estimated nutritional targets were achieved, and enteral feeding commenced on average within 8 hours.

Conclusions:  Evaluation of the new feeding algorithm indicated that it was well accepted by users, ensured a consistent approach to enteral feeding delivery and enabled feeding to start earlier within an intensive care unit.
Thymus pathology observed in the MGTX trial
Authors: Marx Alexander , Pfister Frederik , Schalke Berthold , Nix Wilfred , Ströbel Philipp
Published: December 2012

The MGTX trial is the first prospective, randomized clinical trial that aims to evaluate the impact of extended transsternal thymectomy on myasthenic symptoms, prednisone requirements, and quality of life in patients with nonthymomatous, anti‐acetylcholine receptor autoantibody‐positive myasthenia gravis (MG). Here, we give an overview of the rationale of thymectomy and the standardized macroscopic and histopathological work‐up of thymectomy specimens as fixed in MGTX standard operating procedures, including the grading of thymic lymphofollicular hyperplasia and the morphometric strategy to assess thymic involution.
Phase II trial of methotrexate in myasthenia gravis
Authors: Pasnoor Mamatha , He Jianghua , Herbelin Laura , Dimachkie Mazen , Barohn Richard J. ,   the Muscle Study Group
Published: December 2012

Prednisone is a frequently used treatment for myasthenia gravis (MG) but it has numerous side effects. Methotrexate is a selective inhibitor of dihydrofolate reductase and lymphocyte proliferation and is an effective immuosuppressive medication for autoimmune diseases. Given the negative results of the mycophenolate mofetil study, search for an effective immunosuppressant drug therapy is ongoing. The objective is to determine if oral methotrexate is safe and effective for MG patients who take prednisone. We have initiated a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled multicenter trial of methotrexate versus placebo in patients taking at least 10 mg/day of prednisone at enrollment. The methotrexate dose is increased to 20 mg and the prednisone dose is adjusted per protocol during the study. Clinical and laboratory evaluations are performed monthly for 12 months, with the primary efficacy measure being the nine‐month prednisone area under the curve (AUC) from months 3 to 12. Secondary outcome measures include MG outcomes, quality of life measures, and a polyglutamation biomarker assay. A total of 18 U.S. sites and 2 Canadian sites are participating, with 48 screened cases, 42 enrolled, with 19 still active in the study.
Effect of Enzymatic Protein Deamidation on Protein Solubility and Flavor Binding Properties of Soymilk
Authors: Suppavorasatit Inthawoot , Lee Soo‐Yeun , Cadwallader Keith R.
Published: December 2012

Abstract:  The effect of enzymatic deamidation by protein‐glutaminase (PG) on protein solubility and flavor binding potential of soymilk was studied. Treatment of soymilk with PG for 2 h (temperature of 44 °C and enzyme:substrate ratio (E/S) of 40 U/g protein) resulted in high degree of protein deamidation (66.4% DD) and relatively low degree of protein hydrolysis (4.25% DH). Deamidated (DSM) and control soymilks (CSM) did not differ with respect to aroma, but differed in taste characteristics by sensory evaluation. Protein solubility in DSM was enhanced at weakly acidic conditions (pH 5.0), but did not differ from non‐deamidated soymilk at pH values of 3.0 and 7.0. Odor detection thresholds for the flavor compounds vanillin and maltol were approximately 5 and 3 fold lower, respectively, in DSM than in CSM. Dose‐response curves (Fechner's law plots and n exponents from Stevens's power law) further demonstrated that DSM had a lower flavor binding potential than CSM. PG deamidation has the potential to reduce flavor binding problems encountered in high protein‐containing foods and beverages.

Practical Application:  The findings of this study can help lead to the development of technology to produce protein‐containing foods with improved functional properties, especially protein solubility, and potentially decreased flavor fade problems associated with flavor‐protein interactions, especially with carbonyl containing flavor compounds.
The Use of Gamma Ray Spectrometry as an Aid for Uranium Exploration in Kab Amiri Area, Central Eastern Desert, Egypt
Authors: Aboelkhair Hatem , Gaafar Ibrahim
Published: December 2012

High‐resolution gamma ray spectrometry was exploited to locate the potential radioactive targets at Kab Amiri granite pluton, Central Eastern Desert, Egypt. The Kab Amiri pluton forms a concentric granitic body of monzogranite to syenogranite composition intruded into mafic‐ultramific rocks. To identify and detect anomalous concentrations of natural radioactive elements in the study area, contour maps of equivalent uranium (eU ppm), equivalent thorium (eTh ppm), potassium (K%) and their geochemical ratios (eU/Th, eTh/K and eU‐eTh/3.5) as well as standard deviation map of uranium were constructed and interpreted. Qualitative and quantitative interpretations of the spectrometric survey data revealed the presence of seven radioactive anomalies in the south of the studied area. These anomalies could be related to the prevailing faulting directions NE and ENE fault trends. The southernmost anomalous zone is related to high episyenitization and uranium concentrations. It exhibits a sharp increase in the eU concentrations reaching 370 ppm resulting in a high eU/eTh ratio reaching 4.5 and characterized by oval shape trending in the NE direction. Constructing the contour map of the (eU‐eTh/3.5) was helpful in defining the trends of uranium migration and enabling the delineation of the limit between the negative contours (leaching) and positive contours (deposition).
U–Pb and Re–Os Geochronology of the Tongcun Molybdenum Deposit and Zhilingtou Gold‐Silver Deposit in Zhejiang Province, Southeast China, and Its Geological Implications
Authors: Zeng Qingdong , Wang Yongbin , Zhang Song , Liu Jianming , Qin Kezhang , Yang Jinhui , Sun Weidong , Qu Wenjun
Published: December 2012

Mesozoic ore deposits in Zhejiang Province, Southeast China, are divided into the northwestern and southeastern Zhejiang metallogenic belts along the Jiangshan–Shaoxing Fault. The metal ore deposits found in these belts are epithermal Au–Ag deposits, hydrothermal‐vein Ag–Pb–Zn deposits, porphyry–skarn Mo (Fe) deposits, and vein‐type Mo deposits. There is a close spatial–temporal relationship between the Mesozoic ore deposits and Mesozoic volcanic–intrusive complexes. Zircon U–Pb dating of the ore‐related intrusive rocks and molybdenite Re–Os dating from two typical deposits (Tongcun Mo deposit and Zhilingtou Au–Ag deposit) in the two metallogenic belts show the early and late Yanshanian ages for mineralization. SIMS U–Pb data of zircons from the Tongcun Mo deposit and Zhilingtou Au–Ag deposit indicate that the host granitoids crystallized at 169.7 ± 9.7 Ma (2σ) and 113.6 ± 1 Ma (2σ), respectively. Re–Os analysis of six molybdenite samples from the Tongcun Mo deposit yields an isochron age of 163.9 ± 1.9 Ma (2σ). Re–Os analyses of five molybdenite samples from the porphyry Mo orebodies of the Zhilingtou Au‐Ag deposit yield an isochron age of 110.1 ± 1.8 Ma (2σ). Our results suggest that the metal mineralization in the Zhejiang Province, southeast China formed during at least two stages, i.e., Middle Jurassic and Early Cretaceous, coeval with the granitic magmatism.
A review of the lichen family Parmeliaceae – history, phylogeny and current taxonomy
Authors: Thell Arne , Crespo Ana , Divakar Pradeep K. , Kärnefelt Ingvar , Leavitt Steven D. , Lumbsch H. Thorsten , Seaward Mark R. D.
Published: December 2012

The largest family of lichen‐forming fungi, the Parmeliaceae, is reviewed. It includes 79 genera in current use and ca 2726 species, a large majority of which belong to one of five main clades: the parmelioid, cetrarioid, usneoid, alectorioid and hypogymnioid. However, 21 genera are positioned outside these clades, and four genera in current use still lack DNA‐ data. The family has been shown to be monophyletic and the generic classification is relatively well‐settled compared with other lecanoralean families. Each clade and its genera are presented here with the latest results from phylogenetic analyses and current taxonomy. In addition, a historical outline of the family and its most prominent researchers is provided.
Pollen morphology of the Maddenia clade of Prunus and its taxonomic and phylogenetic implications
Authors: SHI Wenting , WEN Jun , LUTZ Susan
Published: December 2012

Maddenia (Rosaceae) was long recognized as a distinct genus closely related to Prunus and was recently merged with the latter. The Maddenia clade of Prunus has been revised taxonomically with four species from eastern Asia recognized. Recent molecular studies have provided evidence that this group is nested within Prunus, having a close relationship with the Padus–Laurocerasus complex. To further test the phylogenetic position of Maddenia, this study investigates pollen morphology of all former Maddenia species and 28 other Prunus species, using scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy. The Prunus species sampled here represent major subgenera: Amygdalus, Cerasus, Laurocerasus, Padus, and Prunus s.s. We found that pollen grains of these groups are all monad and tricolporate with striate or rugulate sculpturing. The pollen evidence supports a close relationship between Maddenia and species of Padus and Laurocerasus subgroups (excluding the Pygeum group), all of which have elongated, thicker, and less directional muri. Pollen of the subgenera of Cerasus, Amygdalus, and Prunus has generally thinner, highly directional, and predominantly parallel muri. The pollen grains of the Pygeum subgroup are quite distinct from the other groups of Prunus. Pygeum pollen has rugulate exines with much shorter and rod‐shaped muri.
Accounting‐based Risk Measurement: An Alternative to Capital Asset Pricing Model Derived Discount Factors
Authors: Toms Steven
Published: December 2012

Discount factors have a long tradition of being computed using capital market inputs for the estimation of systematic risk. They are of increasing importance in financial accounting, including the valuation of goodwill and other intangibles. In view of the volatility of stock market returns and their inaccuracy and disjunction from the underlying cash flows of the firm, this paper proposes an alternative accounting‐based approach: accountingbased risk measurement. Alternatives to beta are computed from planning and budgeting metrics at firm level to produce consistent risk estimates factoring patterns of revenue and cost behaviour weighted according to their impact on the accounting rate of return. This approach is contrasted with the analysis and interpretation of asset betas in the corporate finance literature.
Warm springs reduce parasitism of the cereal leaf beetle through phenological mismatch
Authors: Evans E. W. , Carlile N. R. , Innes M. B. , Pitigala N.
Published: December 2012

Variation in weather among years may affect biological control of insect pests by influencing how well matched in phenology specialist parasitoids are with their pest hosts. A 10‐year study in western North America (Utah) revealed greater change with warm versus cool springs in the life cycle timing of the cereal leaf beetle (CLB), Oulema melanopus (L.), than of its principal enemy, the parasitoid wasp Tetrastichus julis (Walker). The beetle laid eggs, and larval populations developed in crop fields earlier on a calendar‐day basis, but nonetheless after more degree‐days had accumulated, in warmer than in cooler springs. The phenology of parasitism by wasps, in contrast, varied little among springs in relation to accumulated degree‐days. Consequently, in warmer springs, larval phenology of the CLB was delayed relative to adult parasitoid activity, and parasitism was reduced. Presently, a significant degree of biological control of the CLB results from parasitism by T. julis. By promoting phenological mismatch between host and parasitoid, however, a warming climate could weaken this biological control of the insect pest.
Influence of flood risk perception and other factors on risk‐reducing behaviour: a survey of municipalities along the Rhine
Authors: Becker G. , Aerts J.C.J.H. , Huitema D.
Published: December 2012

A survey of German public officials responsible for municipal flood management along the Rhine has been carried out to assess their perceptions of flood risk and protective behaviour. A sociopsychological framework based on expectancy‐valence models was used to develop an overview of potentially important factors in prompting action to avoid flood damage. The applied framework was confirmed as a useful tool to get more insight into the risk‐reducing processes in the public‐sector sphere. The study delivers valuable guidance on those factors, which should be given more attention in order to improve the level of preparedness and to reduce flood losses.
Trace element composition of continentally subducted slab‐derived melt: insight from multiphase solid inclusions in ultrahigh‐pressure eclogite in the Dabie orogen
Authors: Gao X.‐Y. , Zheng Y.‐F. , Chen Y.‐X. , Hu Z.
Published: December 2012

The ultrahigh‐pressure (UHP) eclogite in the Dabie orogen preserves petrological evidence for the existence of hydrous silicate melts that formed during continental subduction‐zone metamorphism. This is indicated by occurrence of multiphase solid (MS) inclusions in garnet that primarily consist of K‐feldspar + quartz ± epidote/allanite. All the MS inclusions are euhedral to subhedral in morphology and surrounded with radial cracks in the host garnet. Their trace element compositions were analysed by two different approaches of laser sampling. The mass budget method was used to estimate the trace element abundances of MS inclusions from their mixtures with the host garnet. The results are compared with the direct sampling of MS inclusions, providing a first‐order approximation to the trace element composition of MS inclusions. The MS inclusions exhibit consistent enrichment of LILE, Sr and Pb, but depletion of HFSE in the primitive mantle‐normalized spidergram. Such arc‐like patterns of trace element distribution are common for continental crustal rocks. The melts have variably high K, Rb and Sr abundances, suggesting that breakdown of phengite is a basic cause for partial melting of the UHP eclogite. These MS inclusions also exhibit consistently low HFSE and Y contents, suggesting partial melting of the eclogite in the stability fields of rutile and garnet. Consequently, the trace element composition of MS inclusions provides a proxy for that of hydrous silicate melts derived from dehydration melting of the UHP eclogite during continental collision.
Noninvasive assessment of the iridial microcirculation in rats using sidestream dark field imaging
Authors: CERNY V. , ZHOU J. , KELLY M. , ALOTIBI I. , TUREK Z. , WHYNOT S. , SALEH I. ABDO , LEHMANN C.
Published: December 2012

Sidestream dark field imaging represents a novel, noninvasive method to study the microcirculation in humans and animals. To‐date, it has been used extensively in various peripheral tissues (e.g. sublingual area, intestinal mucosa), however no data for the ocular vasculature, including the iridial microcirculation, are currently available. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the reliability and reproducibility of sidestream dark field imaging within the iridial microcirculation in experimental animals. Male Lewis rats were anaesthetized and the iris microvasculature was observed using an sidestream dark field probe gently placed against a cover slip covering the right eye. All video sequences recorded were analysed off‐line by using AVA 3.0 software (MicroVision Medical, Amsterdam, The Netherlands). Results are expressed as mean (±SE) or median (interquartile range). Clear images were recorded from each animal and the total number of analysable video sequences was 50. All raw data for selected vessel density parameters passed normality test. The total all and small vessel density (in mm mm‐2) were 22,6 (±0,58) and 19,6 (±0,68), respectively. The perfused all and small vessel density were 20,9 (±0,61) and 19,1 (±0,65), respectively. The mean values of all iris vessel density parameters are shown in Figure 4. The DeBacker Score (n/mm) was 15,2 (±0,45), the proportion of perfused vessel was 94,5% (89,8–99,1%), and the MFI was 3 points (3–3). Taken together, these results indicate that SDF imaging provides a reliable and noninvasive method to examine the iridial microvascular bed in vivo and, thus, may provide unique opportunities for the study of the iridial vascular network in various experimental and clinical settings and disease models.

Vessel Density. TAVD = Total all vessel density; PAVD = Perfused all vessel density; TSVD = Total small vessel density; PSVD = Perfused small vessel density. Data are shown as a mean (±SE), small vessels are referred to diameter ≤ 25 um.

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Journal Impact as a Diffusion Process: A Conceptualization and the Case of the Journal of Management Studies
Authors: Simsek Zeki , Heavey Ciaran , Jansen Justin J. P.
Published: December 2012

While the question of what makes a journal impactful continues to draw scholarly attention and debate, the lack of conceptual foundation as to what journal impact represents, and how it manifests itself, has impeded efforts to establish a richer understanding. Drawing from the theory of innovation diffusion, we propose journal impact as a multidimensional concept manifested most prominently in the magnitude, prestige, breadth, dispersion, and duration dynamics of citations accruing to a journal. In doing so, we complement extant representations of journal impact as a unidimensional concept with insights into the pattern and profile of a journal impact across space and time. We illustrate the multidimensionality of journal impact as a diffusion process in a longitudinal analysis of citation patterns at the Journal of Management Studies over a 40‐year period.
Epithelial and stromal syndecan‐1 and ‐2 are distinctly expressed in oral‐ and cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Ahmed Haji Omar Abdirisak , Haglund Caj , Virolainen Susanna , Häyry Valtteri , Atula Timo , Kontio Risto , Rihtniemi Jarmo , Pihakari Antti , Salo Tuula , Hagström Jaana , Sorsa Timo
Published: December 2012

Background

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) are epithelial neoplasms of which OSCC has worse survival and higher risk of metastasis than CSCC. The aim of this study was to explore the differences of immunoexpressions between syndecan‐1 and ‐2 in OSCC and head and neck CSCC.

Methods

A total of 35 patients diagnosed with OSCC and 25 with CSCC, presented T1 and T2 tumors and treated at Helsinki University Central Hospital between years 2001 and 2009, were selected into this study. The levels and locations of syndecan‐1 and ‐2 immunostainings were analyzed using formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded tissue samples of OSCC and CSCC cases together with clinical data.

Results

Cell membrane epithelial syndecan‐1 expression decreased significantly compared to normal tissue in both cancer types. Cell membrane syndecan‐1 expression in the invasive front had negative correlation with invasion depth of both tumors (OSCC, r = −0.339, P = 0.025; CSCC, r = −0.469, P = 0.004). In cancers over 4‐mm invasion depth, the number of stromal syndecan‐1‐positive collagen fibers and inflammatory cells were higher in OSCC than in CSCC. Syndecan‐2 expression in non‐malignant stroma was higher in CSCC than in OSCC tumors. In addition, unlike syndecan‐1, syndecan‐2 was more often and more intensively expressed in the tumor inflammatory cells in CSCC than in OSCC.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that variable stromal expression of syndecan‐1 and ‐2 in OSCC compared to CSCC may at least partially explain the differences in their clinical behavior.
Procedural pain in neonates in Australian hospitals: A survey update of practices
Authors: Foster Jann , Spence Kaye , Henderson‐Smart David , Harrison Denise , Gray Peter H , Bidewell John
Published: December 2012

Aim

The study aims to determine whether there has been improved uptake of the evidence for the management of procedural pain in neonates throughout Australia.

Methods

An Australian‐wide survey was undertaken to determine the use of breastfeeding and sucrose and whether a clinical practice guideline (CPG) or pain assessment tool was used.

Results

Data were available from 196 (91%) of the 215 eligible hospitals. A CPG informed the management of neonatal pain in 76 (39%) of the hospitals. There was wide variation in their use between the states, and a significantly higher use of a CPG in higher‐level care units. A pain assessment tool was only used in 21 (11%) of the units with greater use in the higher level care neonatal intensive care units (50%) and surgical neonatal intensive care units (80%). Awareness of breastfeeding for procedural pain was reported by 90% of the 196 respondents while 78% reported that it was actually used. Awareness of sucrose for procedural pain was lower than breastfeeding at 79%, with 53% reporting that they used sucrose in their unit. Overall, 89% of the respondents reported that either breastfeeding or sucrose was used for the management of procedural pain in their units.

Conclusion

There has been an increase in awareness and use of sucrose and breastfeeding for procedural pain in Australia since previous surveys were undertaken in 2004. Continued resources, local pain champions and a national interest group to promote the use of pain management for procedural pain in neonates are needed for continued uptake of the evidence.
Isolates of Didymella bryoniae from South Carolina Remain Sensitive to DMI Fungicides Despite Multiyear Exposure
Authors: Keinath Anthony P , Hansen Zachariah R
Published: December 2012

Triazole fungicides, which are sterol demethylation inhibitors, have become the primary systemic fungicides applied to cucurbits to control gummy stem blight caused by Didymella bryoniae. Isolates of D. bryoniae from South Carolina that were never exposed to tebuconazole or exposed for several years were tested for sensitivity to tebuconazole and difenoconazole. Colony diameters, percentage germination of ascospores and conidia, and germ tube lengths were measured when isolates were grown on agar amended with 0.10–10.0 mg/l tebuconazole and 0.01–1.0 mg/l difenoconazole. All 147 isolates tested were sensitive to tebuconazole and difenoconazole with mean EC50 values of 0.41 and 0.054 mg/l, respectively. Ascospore germination was greater than conidia germination on fungicide‐amended agar. Although the length of germ tubes arising from both spore types was reduced by both fungicides, the reduction was greater for ascospore germ tubes than for conidia germ tubes. Because many watermelon growers rotate crops among fields every two years, local populations of D. bryoniae have not been exposed repeatedly to tebuconazole. In addition, growers often apply a rotation of systemic and contact fungicides. Thus, despite exposure to tebuconazole for up to nine years, isolates of D. bryoniae from South Carolina remain sensitive to triazole fungicides.
Individual‐based approach to the detection of disturbance history through spatial scales in a natural beech‐dominated forest
Authors: Šamonil Pavel , Doleželová Petra , Vašíčková Ivana , Adam Dušan , Valtera Martin , Král Kamil , Janík David , Šebková Barbora
Published: December 2012

Question

We connected tree‐census and dendrochronological research data (74.2 ha) in order to answer the following questions: How do we apply an individual‐based approach, which allows us to abandon the traditional patch model, in the research of disturbance history through spatial scales? What is the disturbance history of the natural forest? How do we understand the influence of the Kyrill storm, which affected the reserve on 18 January 2007? How does the disturbance history in dendrochronological records correspond to real disturbances?

Location

Žofínský Prales (48 °40′ N, 14 °42′ E, 735–830 m a.s.l., granite, Czech Republic)

Methods

Repeated tree‐censuses (>20 000 trees) were carried out in 1975, 1997 and 2008. These surveys served as the basis of dendrochronological research, during which 3 020 trees were sampled. A boundary line (BL) approach and geostatistical techniques were used to detect disturbance intensity and its spatial pattern.

Results

The mean disturbance rate was 11.0% canopy loss per decade (maximum 33.7%) in the core zone. Bordering forests were directly affected by humans after 1800. A maximum of nine disturbance events were recorded per tree, but there were also 3% of non‐suppressed trees without records of disturbance events. The Kyrill storm represented a singular event in the forest history from the point of view of its exceptional spatial pattern (ranges up to 320.0 m), but not from the perspective of disturbance intensity. The relationship between disturbance intensity (y) and the range of spatial autocorrelation (x) can be explained by the equation y = 10.6863 + 0.0783*x (R2 = 0.546, P = 0.009). The spatial variability of releases ≥50% of BL corresponds to real disturbance events, while the insertion of weak releases led to the overestimation of range. The frequency of releases was affected by a decrease in air pollution at the beginning of the 1990s.

Conclusions

Effects of small‐scale disturbances predominate in forest dynamics. Disturbance intensity was often not directly in accordance with the range of spatial autocorrelation. The ecological role of disturbance is therefore biased if disturbance intensity is used as the sole criterion. The results suggest the importance of historical and geographical contingency in ecosystem development.
Phylogeographical patterns shed light on evolutionary process in South America
Authors: Turchetto‐Zolet A. C. , Pinheiro F. , Salgueiro F. , Palma‐Silva C.
Published: December 2012

The South American continent is composed of several biogeographical regions harbouring the highest biodiversity on the globe, encompassing five of the world's biodiversity ‘hot spots’. Nonetheless, the patterns and processes responsible for shaping its astonishing species diversity are largely unknown. Here, we present a review of current South American phylogeographical knowledge based on published articles on this topic. An appraisal of the literature reveals emerging phylogeographical patterns in the biota of South America. The striking phylogeographical divergence observed among organism lineages in South American studies is suggestive of high levels of undocumented species diversity. The interplay between Pleistocene climatic oscillations and Pliocene/Miocene orogenic events has contributed to shaping the current diversity and distribution of modern lineages in both the tropical and temperate regions of South America. Although older divergence times were observed for a range of species, most herpetofauna underwent an intraspecific lineage split much earlier than other organisms. The geographical ranges of species associated with forest habitats were reduced mainly during glacial cycles, whereas species associated with open vegetation domains have shown variable responses to climatic oscillations. The results suggest a highly complex mosaic of phylogeographical patterns in South America. We suggest future research directions to promote a better understanding of the origin and maintenance of the South American biota.