bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does the Punitive Need the Supportive? A Sympathetic Critique of Current Grammars of Urban Injustice
Authors: DeVerteuil Geoff
Published: December 2012

Abstract: This paper is a sympathetic critique of mainstream grammars of urban injustice, arguing that they are frequently too one‐sided and selective to adequately grasp the full complexity of urban realities. Most prominently, I contend that urban injustice and punitiveness co‐exist with, if not sometimes depend upon, more supportive responses within urban space. I therefore counterbalance the spectacular logics of punitive urbanism and the everyday logics of control with a tripartite approach to logics assembled within the urban voluntary sector (abeyance, care and survival) as a way to reconnect to a broader set of practices. Two case studies are used to illustrate these contentions.
Increased risk of herpes zoster among 108 604 patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Long M. D. , Martin C. , Sandler R. S. , Kappelman M. D.
Published: December 2012

Background

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) on certain immunosuppressants have increased herpes zoster (HZ) risk.

Aim

To determine the risk of HZ in IBD and how antitumour necrosis factor‐alpha (anti‐TNF) agents affect this risk.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort and nested case–control study using administrative data from IMS LifeLink® Information Assets‐Health Plan Claims Database. In the cohort, we identified IBD patients <age 64 by diagnosis codes; matched to four individuals without IBD. HZ risk was evaluated by incidence rate ratio (IRR) and adjusted Cox proportional hazards models (HR). In the nested case–control analysis, 2659 IBD patients with HZ were each matched to four IBD patients without HZ. We determined associations between medications and HZ using conditional logistic regression.

Results

The cohort included 50 932 patients with Crohn's disease (CD), 56 403 patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and 1269 with unspecified IBD, matched to 434 416 individuals without IBD. The IBD cohort had increased HZ risk compared with non‐IBD (IRR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.60–1.76). After adjustment, IBD patients had a higher risk of HZ than non‐IBD (HR: 1.49, 95% CI: 1.42–1.57). In the nested case–control multivariate‐adjusted analyses, anti‐TNF medications (OR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.48–2.21), corticosteroids (OR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.51–1.99) and thiopurines (OR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.61–2.13) were independently associated with HZ. Risk of HZ was highest with combination anti‐TNF and thiopurine therapy (OR: 3.29, 95% CI: 2.33–4.65).

Conclusions

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease are at increased risk for herpes zoster. Use of thiopurines, anti‐TNF agents, combination therapy and corticosteroids increases herpes zoster risk.
Structure of the male reproductive system of the blue swimmer crab Portunus pelagicus (Decapoda: Portunidae)
Authors: Ravi Raghunath , Manisseri Mary Kurian , Sanil Nandiath Karayi
Published: December 2012

An attempt was made here to study the structure of the male reproductive system of Portunus pelagicus, which would improve the knowledge base on the reproductive biology of the species and also help in the maintenance of broodstock under controlled conditions. Male P. pelagicus of different sizes were collected from the Palk Bay off Mandapam (9°17′ N, 79°9′ E) and maintained under controlled conditions for the study. Tissues from testis, anterior vas deferens (AVD), median vas deferens (MVD), posterior vas deferens (PVD), ejaculatory duct and penis were fixed in Bouin's fluid and 2.5% buffered glutaraldehyde separately and processed for light and electron microscopic studies, respectively. The reproductive system consisted of testis, commissure, vas deferens, ejaculatory duct and penis. The vas deferens was divided based on the morphology and/or histology into AVD, MVD and PVD. The AVD was further divided based on histology into proximal and distal regions, and the MVD, based on diameter into major and minor coils. The testicular lobe had several lobules with a central seminiferous tubule, which continued till the penis. The seminiferous tubule was lined by a layer of cuboidal or columnar epithelium. The lining of the central tubule of the vas deferens formed several ‘folds’, which at times formed ‘pouches’. High incidence of cell organelles in the columnar epithelial cells, aggregations of vesicles and occurrence of blebs at the luminal periphery and the projection of numerous microvilli containing electron‐dense materials into the lumen from the cell lining denoted high secretory activity of the epithelial cells.
Evolution of a Holsteinian (MIS 11c) palaeolake based on a 12‐ka‐long diatom record from Dethlingen (northern Germany)
Authors: Koutsodendris Andreas , Lotter André F. , Kirilova Emiliya , Verhagen Florence T. M. , Brauer Achim , Pross Jörg
Published: December 2012

To provide insights into the long‐term evolution of aquatic ecosystems without human interference, we here evaluate a decadal‐ to centennial‐scale‐resolution diatom record spanning about 12 ka of the Holsteinian interglacial (Marine Isotope Stage 11c). Using a partially varved sediment core from the Dethlingen palaeolake (northern Germany), which has previously been studied for palynological and microfacies signals, we document the co‐evolution of the aquatic and surrounding terrestrial environment. The diatom record is dominated by the genera Stephanodiscus, Aulacoseira, Ulnaria and Fragilaria. Based on the diatom assemblages and physical sediment properties, the evolution of the Dethlingen palaeolake can be subdivided into three major phases. During the oldest phase (lasting ∼1900 varve years), the lake was ∼10–15 m deep and characterized by anoxic bottom‐water conditions and a high nutrient content. The following ∼5600 years exhibited water depths >20 m, maximum diatom and Pediastrum productivity, and a peak in allochtonous nutrient input. During this phase, water‐column mixing became more vigorous, resulting in a breakdown of anoxia. The youngest lake phase (∼4000–5000 years) was characterized by decreasing water depth, turbulent water conditions and decreased nutrient loading. Based on our palaeolimnological data, we conclude that the evolution of the Dethlingen palaeolake during the Holsteinian interglacial responded closely to (i) changes within the catchment area (as documented by vegetation and sedimentation) related to the transition from closed forests growing on nutrient‐rich soils (mesocratic forest phase) to open forests developing on poor soils (oligocratic forest phase), and (ii) short‐term climate variability as reflected in centennial‐scale climate perturbations.
The constitutive androstane receptor activator 4‐[(4R,6R)‐4,6‐diphenyl‐1,3‐dioxan‐2‐yl]‐N,N‐dimethylaniline inhibits the gluconeogenic genes PEPCK and G6Pase through the suppression of HNF4α and FOXO1 transcriptional activity
Authors: Yarushkin AA , Kachaylo EM , Pustylnyak VO
Published: December 2012

Background and Purpose

The dual role of the constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) as both a xenosensor and a regulator of endogenous energy metabolism (lipogenesis and gluconeogenesis) has recently gained acceptance. Here, we investigated the effects of 4‐[(4R,6R)‐4,6‐diphenyl‐1,3‐dioxan‐2‐yl]‐N,N‐dimethylaniline (transpDMA), an effective CAR activator, on the gluconeogenic genes phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) and glucose‐6‐phosphatase (G6Pase) in rat livers.

Experimental Approach

The effects of transpDMA were investigated in normal and high‐fat diet‐fed Wistar rats using real‐time PCR, Western blotting, chromatin immunoprecipitation assays (ChIP), glucose tolerance test and insulin tolerance test.

Key Results

The expression of the gluconeogenic enzymes PEPCK and G6Pase was repressed by transpDMA treatment under fasting conditions. Long‐term CAR activation by transpDMA significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels and improved glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity in high‐fat diet‐fed rats. The metabolic benefits of CAR activation by transpDMA may have resulted from the inhibition of hepatic gluconeogenic genes. ChIP assays demonstrated that transpDMA prevented the binding of forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) to insulin response sequences in the PEPCK and G6Pase gene promoters in rat livers. Moreover, transpDMA‐activated CAR inhibited hepatocyte nuclear factor‐4α (HNF4α) transactivation by competing with HNF4α for binding to the specific binding element (DR1‐site) in the gluconeogenic gene promoters.

Conclusions and Implications

Our results provide evidence to support the conclusion that transpDMA inhibits the gluconeogenic genes PEPCK and G6Pase through suppression of HNF4α and FOXO1 transcriptional activity.
Informants' Traits Weigh Heavily in Young Children's Trust in Testimony and in Their Epistemic Inferences
Authors: Lane Jonathan D. , Wellman Henry M. , Gelman Susan A.
Published: December 2012

This study examined how informants' traits affect how children seek information, trust testimony, and make inferences about informants' knowledge. Eighty‐one 3‐ to 6‐year‐olds and 26 adults completed tasks where they requested and endorsed information provided by one of two informants with conflicting traits (e.g., honesty vs. dishonesty). Participants also completed tasks where they simultaneously considered informants' traits and visual access to information when inferring their knowledge and trusting their testimony. Children and adults preferred to ask and endorse information provided by people who are nice, smart, and honest. Moreover, these traits influenced the knowledge that young children attributed to informants. Children younger than 5 years of age reported that people with positive traits were knowledgeable even when they lacked access to relevant information.
Persistent pollen exposure during infancy is associated with increased risk of subsequent childhood asthma and hayfever
Authors: Erbas B. , Lowe A. J. , Lodge C. J. , Matheson M. C. , Hosking C. S. , Hill D. J. , Vicendese D. , Allen K. J. , Abramson M. J. , Dharmage S. C.
Published: December 2012

Background

Few studies have focused on pollen exposure and asthma in children. None have examined associations between persistent exposure to pollen in infancy and aeroallergen sensitisation and asthma in childhood.

Objectives

To examine the association between higher ambient levels of pollen in the first 3–6 months of life and risk of eczema, sensitization to food and aeroallergens at 2 years and asthma or hayfever at age 6–7 years combined.

Methods

Using a birth cohort of 620 infants with a family history of allergic disease born between 1990 and 1994, we examined risk of eczema or allergic sensitization (SPT > 3 mm to at least one of cow's milk, egg white, peanut, house dust‐mite, rye grass, and cat dander) by age 2 and asthma or hayfever at age 6–7. Daily ambient levels of pollen were measured during this period.

Results

Cumulative exposure to pollen concentrations up to 6 months was associated with aeroallergen sensitization with the highest risk occurring at 3 months (aOR = 1.34, 95% CI 1.06–1.72). Cumulative exposure to pollen up to 3 months was also associated with hayfever (aOR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.009–1.29) and between 4 and 6 months exposure with asthma only (aOR=1.35, 95% CI 1.07–1.72).

Conclusion

Persistent pollen exposure in infancy appears to increase the risk of asthma and hayfever in children. These results support the hypothesis that there is a critical window of opportunity in early development which may be important for modification of allergic outcomes.
Cinacalcet in the management of primary hyperparathyroidism: post marketing experience of an Italian multicentre group
Authors: Saponaro Federica , Faggiano Antongiulio , Grimaldi Franco , Borretta Giorgio , Brandi Maria Luisa , Minisola Salvatore , Frasoldati Andrea , Papini Enrico , Scillitani Alfredo , Banti Chiara , Prete Michela Del , Vescini Fabio , Gianotti Laura , Cavalli Loredana , Romagnoli Elisabetta , Colao Annamaria , Cetani Filomena , Marcocci Claudio
Published: December 2012

Objective

To report the Italian experience on cinacalcet use following its approval by the European Medical Agency (EMA) to control hypercalcaemia in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT).

Design

Retrospective data collection from 100 patients with sporadic (sPHPT) and 35 with familial PHPT (fPHPT) followed in eight Italian centres between October 2008 and March 2011.

Measurements

Albumin‐adjusted serum calcium, PTH, 25OHD, daily cinacalcet dose and adverse events were recorded during the follow‐up (1–46 months).

Results

Baseline serum calcium was 2·90 ± 0·27 nmol/l in sPHPT and 2·75 ± 0·17 nmol/l in fPHPT patients (P = 0·007). The cinacalcet EMA labelling was met in 53% sPHPT and 26% fPHPT patients. High surgical risk (34%), negative preoperative imaging (19%), control of hypercalcaemia before parathyroidectomy (PTx) (24%), and refusal of PTx (19%) accounted for cinacalcet prescription in 96% of sPHPT patients. Conversely, initial treatment (34%), persistent/relapsing PHPT after surgery (31%), and refusal of PTx (14%) were the indications in 79% fPHPT patients. Cinacalcet was started at 30 mg/daily in 64% of sPHPT and 91% of fPHPT and increased until normocalcaemia was reached or side effects occurred. The final daily dose ranged between 15 and 120 mg. The majority of patients (65% of sPHPT and 80% of fPHPT) become normocalcaemic. Treatment was withdrawn in six patients because of side effects.

Conclusions

There is a wide heterogeneity in the prescription of cinacalcet in PHPT patients in Italy and the EMA labelling is not always followed, particularly in fPHPT patients. Cinacalcet effectively reduces serum calcium in patients with either sPHPT or fPHPT.
Thyroid dyshormonogenesis is mainly caused by TPO mutations in consanguineous community
Authors: Cangul Hakan , Aycan Zehra , Olivera‐Nappa Alvaro , Saglam Halil , Schoenmakers Nadia A. , Boelaert Kristien , Cetinkaya Semra , Tarim Omer , Bober Ece , Darendeliler Feyza , Bas Veysel , Demir Korcan , Aydin Banu K. , Kendall Michaela , Cole Trevor , Högler Wolfgang , Chatterjee V. Krishna K. , Barrett Timothy G. , Maher Eamonn R.
Published: December 2012

Objective

In this study, we aimed to investigate the genetic background of thyroid dyshormonogenesis (TDH).

Context

Thyroid dyshormonogenesis comprises 10–15% of all cases of congenital hypothyroidism (CH), which is the most common neonatal endocrine disorder, and might result from disruptions at any stage of thyroid hormone biosynthesis. Currently seven genes (NIS, TPO, PDS, TG, IYD, DUOX2 and DUOXA2) have been implicated in the aetiology of the disease.

Design

As TDH is mostly inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, we planned to conduct the study in consanguineous/multi‐case families.

Patients

One hundred and four patients with congenital TDH all coming from consanguineous and/or multi‐case families.

Measurements

Initially, we performed potential linkage analysis of cases to all seven causative‐TDH loci as well as direct sequencing of the TPO gene in cases we could not exclude linkage to this locus. In addition, in silico analyses of novel missense mutations were carried out.

Results

TPO had the highest potential for linkage and we identified 21 TPO mutations in 28 TDH cases showing potential linkage to this locus. Four of 10 distinct TPO mutations detected in this study were novel (A5T, Y55X, E596X, D633N).

Conclusions

This study underlines the importance of molecular genetic studies in diagnosis, classification and prognosis of CH and proposes a comprehensive mutation screening by new sequencing technology in all newly diagnosed primary CH cases.
Prenatal diagnosis and clinicopathologic examination of a case with diastematomyelia
Authors: Turgal Mert , Ozyuncu Ozgur , Talim Beril , Yazicioglu Aslihan , Onderoglu Lutfu
Published: December 2012

Diastematomyelia is a rare form of spinal dysraphism. Here the spinal cord was split into two with a bony or cartilaginous spur, resulting in formation of two hemicords. The prenatal diagnosis of diastematomyelia is possible with ultrasonography. The unique finding is the appearance of echogenic focus within the spinal canal. This condition may not have any clinical sign during prenatal and early years of life but as the child grows, serious neurologic manifestations may occur, commonly termed the “tethered cord syndrome”. Here, we report a case of diastematomyelia in which a careful antenatal imaging was performed and postnatal pathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis.
Osseointegration of implants with dendrimers surface characteristics installed conventionally or with Piezosurgery®. A comparative study in the dog
Authors: Bengazi Franco , Lang Niklaus P. , Canciani Elena , Viganò Paolo , Velez Joaquin Urbizo , Botticelli Daniele
Published: December 2012

Aim

The first aim of the present experiment was to compare bone healing at implants installed in recipient sites prepared with conventional drills or a piezoelectric device. The second aim was to compare implant osseointegration onto surfaces with and without dendrimers coatings.

Material and Methods

Six Beagles dogs were used in this study. Five implants with two different surfaces, three with a ZirTi® surface (zirconia sand blasted, acid etched), and two with a ZirTi®‐modified surface with dendrimers of phosphoserine and polylysine were installed in the right side of the mandible. In the most anterior region (P2, P3), two recipient sites were prepared with drills, and one implant ZirTi® surface and one coated with dendrimers implants were installed at random. In the posterior region (P4 and M1), three recipient sites were randomly prepared: two sites with a Piezosurgery® instrument and one site with drill and two ZirTi® surface and one coated with dendrimers implants installed. Three months after the surgery, the animals were sacrificed for histological analysis.

Results

No complications occurred during the healing period. Three implants were found not integrated and were excluded from analysis. However, n = 6 was obtained. The distance IS‐B at the buccal aspect was 2.2 ± 0.8 and 1.8 ± 0.5 mm, while IS‐C was 1.5 ± 0.9 and 1.4 ± 0.6 mm at the Piezosurgery® and drill groups, respectively. Similar values were obtained between the dendrimers‐coated and ZirTi® surface implants. The BIC% values were higher at the drill (72%) compared to the Piezosurgery® (67%) sites. The BIC% were also found to be higher at the ZirTi® (74%) compared to the dendrimers‐coated (65%) implants, the difference being statistically significant.

Conclusion

This study has revealed that oral implants may osseointegrate equally well irrespective of whether their bed was prepared utilizing conventional drills with abundant cooling or Piezosurgery®. Moreover, the surface coating of implants with dendrimers phosphoserine and polylysine did not improve osseointegration.
Prevalence, patterns and predictors of alcohol consumption in a mountainous district of Bhutan
Authors: Subady Bhim N. , Assanangkornchai Sawitri , Chongsuvivatwong Virasakdi
Published: December 2012

Introduction and Aims.

South Asian countries, with their diverse cultures, have varying prevalences of alcohol consumption. Little is known about Bhutan, a Himalayan country. The objectives of this study are to estimate the prevalence of alcohol consumption among the residents of a rural community in Bhutan and determine their patterns of and factors associated with drinking.

Design and Methods.

A cross‐sectional household survey using a multistage systematic sampling technique was conducted in eight sub‐districts of Tashiyangtse. A total of 442 subjects of 270 households were surveyed in 17 villages using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), with the tri‐level method and face‐to‐face interviews.

Results.

The drinking prevalence (at least one standard drink in the past year) was 38.5% (52% in men and 30% in women). The prevalence of low‐, moderate‐ and high‐risk drinking based on the AUDIT was 22.4%, 13.6% and 2.5%, respectively. Annual per capita alcohol consumption was 5442 and 2566 g in men and women, respectively, while the corresponding values of home‐made alcohol consumption were 3768 and 2127 g, respectively. Among drinkers, 30.3% of men and 25.9% of women reported encountering financial consequences. The home was almost the exclusive drinking venue (92.4%). Belief in the medicinal use of alcohol was 34.8% in men and 58% in women as the reason to start drinking. This belief was a strong independent predictor for current drinking after adjustment for age and sex.

Discussion and Conclusions.

Home‐made alcohol and home drinking with a belief of medicinal effects were the major cause of drinking and its consequences in the study area. [Subady BN, Assanangkornchai S, Chongsuvivatwong V. Prevalence, patterns and predictors of alcohol consumption in a mountainous district of Bhutan. Drug Alcohol Rev 2013;32:435–442]
Primary and secondary prevention of Type 1 diabetes
Authors: Skyler J. S.
Published: December 2012

Since type 1 diabetes is an immunologically mediated disease, immune intervention should alter the natural history of the disease. This article reviews prevention studies undertaken either prior to any evidence of autoimmunity (primary prevention) or after the development of islet autoantibodies (secondary prevention). Most immune intervention studies have been conducted in recent‐onset type 1 diabetes (tertiary prevention), and these are not reviewed herein. The goal of primary and secondary intervention is to arrest the immune process and thus prevent or delay clinical disease. Primary prevention studies have been conducted in infants with high genetic risk. Interventions tested include several dietary manipulations, including infant formulas free of either cow's milk or of bovine insulin, infant formula supplemented with the omega‐3‐fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid, delayed introduction of gluten‐containing foods, and vitamin D supplementation. Secondary prevention studies have been conducted in both children and adults with diabetes autoantibodies. Interventions tested include nicotinamide, insulin injections, oral insulin, nasal insulin, glutamic acid decarboxylase, and cyclosporine. Underway are secondary prevention studies with teplizumab and with abatacept.
Insulin degludec: overview of a novel ultra long‐acting basal insulin
Authors: Gough S. C. L. , Harris S. , Woo V. , Davies M.
Published: December 2012

All the basal insulin products currently available have suboptimal pharmacokinetic (PK) properties, with none reliably providing a reproducible and peakless pharmacodynamic (PD) effect that endures over 24 h from once‐daily dosing. Insulin degludec is a novel acylated basal insulin with a unique mechanism of protracted absorption involving the formation of a depot of soluble multihexamer chains after subcutaneous injection. PK/PD studies show that insulin degludec has a very long duration of action, with a half‐life exceeding 25 h. Once‐daily dosing produces a steady‐state profile characterized by a near‐constant effect, which varies little from injection to injection in a given patient. Clinically, insulin degludec has been shown consistently to carry a lower risk of nocturnal hypoglycaemia than once‐daily insulin glargine, in both basal+bolus and basal‐only insulin regimens. The constancy of the steady‐state profile of insulin degludec also means that day‐to‐day irregularities at the time of injection have relatively little PD influence, thereby offering the possibility of greater treatment flexibility for patients.
Depressed Atrial Function in Diastolic Dysfunction: A Speckle Tracking Imaging Study
Authors: Khan Umar A. , de Simone Giovanni , Hill Jeffrey , Tighe Dennis A. , Aurigemma Gerard P.
Published: December 2012

Background: Two‐dimensional speckle tracking imaging (STI) has recently been applied to the study of left atrial (LA) reservoir function. We utilized STI to analyze LA function in diastolic dysfunction (DD), hypothesizing that LA strain abnormality is part of the pathogenesis of diastolic dysfunction. Methods: We applied STI to 50 patients with Grade 1‐2 DD, comparing these results to 100 normal controls. Complete Doppler analysis of filling was made using peak E, peak A and tissue Doppler e' velocities; E/e' was used as a surrogate for LA pressure and LA stiffness index was calculated. Results: In analysis of covariance, adjusting for age and gender, compared with controls, DD patients had higher E/e', greater LA volume and greater LA stiffness, but lower E/A ratio and global LA strain. LA strain appears to be inversely related to LA volume, but not to other indices of LV diastolic function. In subgroup analysis, LA strain was significantly lower, and stiffness significantly higher in DD, even after correction for differences in LA volume and E/A ratio. Analysis of ROC curves suggests that abnormal LA strain is a better marker for diastolic dysfunction than LA enlargement. Conclusion: LA strain by STI is significantly reduced in early diastolic dysfunction and is related to higher LA stiffness and LA size. Reduction in LA strain is partially independent of LA volume; accordingly we hypothesize that reduced atrial strain indicates impaired atrial distensibility.
DPP4‐inhibitor improves neuronal insulin receptor function, brain mitochondrial function and cognitive function in rats with insulin resistance induced by high‐fat diet consumption
Authors: Pipatpiboon Noppamas , Pintana Hiranya , Pratchayasakul Wasana , Chattipakorn Nipon , Chattipakorn Siriporn C.
Published: December 2012

High‐fat diet (HFD) consumption has been demonstrated to cause peripheral and neuronal insulin resistance, and brain mitochondrial dysfunction in rats. Although the dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor, vildagliptin, is known to improve peripheral insulin sensitivity, its effects on neuronal insulin resistance and brain mitochondrial dysfunction caused by a HFD are unknown. We tested the hypothesis that vildagliptin prevents neuronal insulin resistance, brain mitochondrial dysfunction, learning and memory deficit caused by HFD. Male rats were divided into two groups to receive either a HFD or normal diet (ND) for 12 weeks, after which rats in each group were fed with either vildagliptin (3 mg/kg/day) or vehicle for 21 days. The cognitive function was tested by the Morris Water Maze prior to brain removal for studying neuronal insulin receptor (IR) and brain mitochondrial function. In HFD rats, neuronal insulin resistance and brain mitochondrial dysfunction were demonstrated, with impaired learning and memory. Vildagliptin prevented neuronal insulin resistance by restoring insulin‐induced long‐term depression and neuronal IR phosphorylation, IRS‐1 phosphorylation and Akt/PKB‐ser phosphorylation. It also improved brain mitochondrial dysfunction and cognitive function. Vildagliptin effectively restored neuronal IR function, increased glucagon‐like‐peptide 1 levels and prevented brain mitochondrial dysfunction, thus attenuating the impaired cognitive function caused by HFD.
Pistia stratiotes L. and Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms.: emerging invasive alien hydrophytes in Campania and Sardinia (Italy)
Authors: Brundu G. , Stinca A. , Angius L. , Bonanomi G. , Celesti‐Grapow L. , D'Auria G. , Griffo R. , Migliozzi A. , Motti R. , Spigno P.
Published: December 2012

This article provides general information on the distribution and presence of invasive macrophytes in Italy and describes and discusses two hydrophyte invasion case studies: Eichhornia crassipes in Sardinia and Pistia stratiotes in Campania. The two invasions took place in the same period, but mechanical removal intervention started only in Sardinia, even if costly and unsuccessful in the long term. Two main pathways are responsible for the presence of these two species in Italy, i.e. introduction as ornamentals and investigation and use for phytoremediation. The drafting of a national strategy on biological invasions is a priority for Italy and several specific action plans for species and habitats, as in the case of inland waters, are required. Furthermore, there is the need for regulations in the trade sector of invasive plant species and to evaluate the possibilities for biological control for established aquatic alien invaders.
A review of pest surveillance techniques for detecting quarantine pests in Europe
Authors: Augustin Sylvie , Boonham Neil , De Kogel Willem J. , Donner Pierre , Faccoli Massimo , Lees David C. , Marini Lorenzo , Mori Nicola , Petrucco Toffolo Edoardo , Quilici Serge , Roques Alain , Yart Annie , Battisti Andrea
Published: December 2012

This paper provides reviews of the most commonly used methods to detect plant pests belonging to groups of invasive organisms with high economic relevance, including Coleoptera (bark beetles, flathead borers, leaf beetles, longhorn beetles, weevils), Diptera (cone and seed flies, fruit flies), Homoptera (aphids, leafhoppers and psyllids, whiteflies), Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies), Thysanoptera (thrips), bacteria (potato brown rot Ralstonia solanacearum) and fungi (pitch canker disease Gibberella circinata, brown rot disease Monilinia fructicola). Future perspectives in detection methods are discussed, with particular reference to the considerable increase in the volume, commodity type and origins of trade in plant material from third countries, the introduction of new crops, the continuous expansion of the EU with new border countries being added, and the impact of climate change affecting the geographical boundaries of pests and their vectors.
Temperature can interact with landscape factors to affect songbird productivity
Authors: Cox W. Andrew , Thompson Frank R. , Reidy Jennifer L. , Faaborg John
Published: December 2012

Increased temperatures and more extreme weather patterns associated with global climate change can interact with other factors that regulate animal populations, but many climate change studies do not incorporate other threats to wildlife in their analyses. We used 20 years of nest‐monitoring data from study sites across a gradient of habitat fragmentation in Missouri,USA, to investigate the relative influence of weather variables (temperature and precipitation) and landscape factors (forest cover and edge density) on the number of young produced per nest attempt (i.e., productivity) for three species of songbirds. We detected a strong forest cover × temperature interaction for theAcadianFlycatcher (Empidonax virescens) on productivity. Greater forest cover resulted in greater productivity because of reduced brood parasitism and increased nest survival, whereas greater temperatures reduced productivity in highly forested landscapes because of increased nest predation but had no effect in less forested landscapes. The Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea) exhibited a similar pattern, albeit with a marginal forest cover × temperature interaction. By contrast, productivity of theNorthernCardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) was not influenced by landscape effects or temperature. Our results highlight a potential difficulty of managing wildlife in response to global change such as habitat fragmentation and climate warming, as the habitat associated with the greatest productivity for flycatchers was also that most negatively influenced by high temperatures. The influence of high temperatures on nest predation (and therefore, nest predators) underscores the need to acknowledge the potential complexity of species' responses to climate change by incorporating a more thorough consideration of community ecology in the development of models of climate impacts on wildlife.
Evaluation of multidimensional neurocognitive function using a tablet personal computer: Test–retest reliability and validity in community‐dwelling older adults
Authors: Makizako Hyuma , Shimada Hiroyuki , Park Hyuntae , Doi Takehiko , Yoshida Daisuke , Uemura Kazuki , Tsutsumimoto Kota , Suzuki Takao
Published: December 2012

Aim

This study sought to confirm the test–retest reliability and validity of the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology functional assessment tool (NCGG‐FAT), a newly developed assessment of multidimensional neurocognitive function using a tablet personal computer (PC).

Methods

This study included 20 community‐dwelling older adults (9 females, aged 65–81 years). Participants were administered the NCGG‐FAT twice, separated by approximately 30 days to determine test–retest reliability. To test the validity of the measure, participants underwent established neurocognitive measurements, including memory, attention, executive function, processing speed and visuospatial function within a week from the first administration of the NCGG‐FAT.

Results

Test–retest reliability was in an acceptable range for each component of the NCGG‐FAT, with intraclass correlation coefficients ranging from 0.764 to 0.942. Each task in the NCGG‐FAT showed a moderate to high correlation with scores on widely‐used conventional neurocognitive tests (r = 0.496 to 0.842).

Conclusion

We found that the NCGG‐FAT using a tablet PC was reliable in a sample of community‐dwelling older adults. The NCGG‐FAT might be useful for cognitive screening in population‐based samples and outcomes, enabling assessment of the effects of intervention on multidimensional cognitive function among older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 860–866.
Application of Continuous 222Rn Monitor with Dual Loop System in a Small Lake
Authors: Ono Masahiko , Tokunaga Takahiro , Shimada Jun , Ichiyanagi Kimpei
Published: December 2012

To estimate the spatial distribution of groundwater discharge from the bottom of a small lake of Kumamoto in Japan, we applied continuous radon measurements with a dual loop system and verified the results obtained using the radon method by visual diving surveys. Time‐shifting correction in the dual‐loop system is reasonable to obtain the true radon activity in water. Distributions of radon activity and water temperature in the study area reveal the effects on groundwater discharge and mixing situation of lake water. The estimated discharge zone ascertained using the radon method agrees with the groundwater discharge distribution observed through diving surveys. Although the data resolution of the radon method is much greater than the width of observed discharge zones, the general distribution of groundwater discharge is recognizable. The dual loop system of radon measurement is useful for smaller areas.
High deductible health plans: does cost sharing stimulate increased consumer sophistication?
Authors: Gupta Neal , Polsky Daniel
Published: December 2012

Objective

To determine whether increased cost sharing in health insurance plans induces higher levels of consumer sophistication in a non‐elderly population.

Study design

This analysis is based on the collection of survey and demographic data collected from enrollees in the RAND health insurance experiment (HIE). During the RAND HIE, enrollees were randomly assigned to different levels of cost sharing (0, 25, 50 and 95%).

Methods

The study population compromises about 2000 people enrolled in the RAND HIE, between the years 1974 and 1982. Effects on health‐care decision making were measured using the results of a standardized questionnaire, administered at the beginning and end of the experiment. Points of enquiry included whether or not enrollees' (i) recognized the need for second opinions (ii) questioned the effectiveness of certain therapies and (iii) researched the background/skill of their medical providers. Consumer sophistication was also measured for regular health‐care consumers, as indicated by the presence of a chronic disease.

Principal findings

We found no statically significant changes (P < 0.05) in the health‐care decision‐making strategies between individuals randomized to high cost sharing plans and low cost sharing plans. Furthermore, we did not find a stronger effect for patients with a chronic disease.

Conclusions

The evidence from the RAND HIE does not support the hypothesis that a higher level of cost sharing incentivizes the development of consumer sophistication. As a result, cost sharing alone will not promote individuals to become more selective in their health‐care decision‐making.
Determining where physical therapists get information to support clinical practice decisions
Authors: Fell Dennis W. , Burnham Judy F. , Dockery Jon M.
Published: December 2012

Objective

To determine the information sources utilised by physical therapists (PTs) to support clinical decisions.

Methods

Physical therapists in the United States were invited via professional listservs and electronic newsletters to participate in an online survey.

Results

Journal articles were the most frequently utilised source of information, followed by databases (PubMed was most frequent). The frequency of utilising evidence‐based resources was not significantly affected by the number of years of experience as a physical therapist (PT), working in a state that allows direct access to PT services or doctoral vs masters/bachelors degree.

Conclusions

Compared with a previous study (1994), there has been a transition in physical therapy information seeking, with greater reliance on evidence‐based information.
High‐grade endometrial carcinomas – strategies for typing
Authors: Soslow Robert A
Published: December 2012

High‐grade endometrial carcinomas are subject to low rates of interobserver diagnostic agreement; this may be a result of the existence of morphologically ambiguous carcinomas, many of which are microsatellite instability‐high. High‐grade endometrial carcinomas with prototypic morphology have characteristic genotypes and immunohistochemical profiles. Assays accounting for these features may be applied to morphologically ambiguous carcinomas in the hope that the results will provide some clarity about a tumour's origin and expected clinical outcome, and even whether tumour progression has occurred. It is important to be able to demonstrate that morphologically based diagnoses are strongly linked not only to clinical outcomes, but also to genetic signatures and expression profiles. There are still numerous persistent problems in tumour classification that will require a critical evaluation of the type and strength of evidence needed to refine diagnostic algorithms.
Further evidence that E‐cadherin is not a tumour suppressor gene in invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast: an immunohistochemical study
Authors: Rakha Emad A , Teoh Tsu K , Lee Andrew H S , Nolan Chris C , Ellis Ian O , Green Andrew R
Published: December 2012

Aims

E‐cadherin is a cell adhesion molecule expressed in normal breast tissue; it is used generally as a phenotypical marker in breast cancer, with the absence of its expression observed frequently in lobular tumours. We have reported E‐cadherin expression previously in 1516 ductal breast carcinoma using tissue microarray (TMA), where 7% of cases showed a complete absence of membrane staining. In this study, we investigated further the existence of E‐cadherin‐negative ductal carcinoma and evaluated the status of the E‐cadherin–catenin complex in this subgroup.

Material and methods

Full‐face sections from excision specimens of 72 ductal breast carcinomas reported previously as E‐cadherin‐negative were assessed morphologically using haematoxylin and eosin staining, and immunohistochemically using two E‐cadherin antibodies (HECD‐1 and CDH1/4A2C7) and antibodies recognizing β‐catenin and p120 proteins. Only membrane expression was considered.

Results

Forty‐seven ductal carcinomas were assessed after the exclusion of inappropriate cases; 34 of these showed positive E‐cadherin (HECD‐1) membrane expression which was focal and weak and seen mainly in invasion fronts. Ten cases showed E‐cadherin (4A2C7) staining. Staining for p120 and β‐catenin showed membrane staining in all cases for both antibodies, which was variable in both intensity and the proportion of positive cells.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that E‐cadherin‐negative ductal carcinoma is rare, and in these cases p120 and β‐catenin maintained their membranous localization, suggesting a functional E‐cadherin–membrane complex.
Commonly used UV filter toxicity on biological functions: review of last decade studies
Authors: Gilbert E. , Pirot F. , Bertholle V. , Roussel L. , Falson F. , Padois K.
Published: December 2012

Synopsis

Sunscreens provide broad‐spectrum UV skin protection and contain more often UV filter combinations. Their efficacy reducing skin photo carcinogenesis and photo ageing is widely documented. However, there are many concerns about UV filter safety. Organic UV filters were the first targeted by scientist concerns, as they were showed to trigger skin allergic reactions. Inorganic UV filters were then at the heart of scientist debate especially because of their nanometric size. Over the last years, many studies have been published tending to highlight that organic as well as inorganic UV filters could lead to variable side effects after sunscreen application. However, these studies are still very controversial due to different experimental conditions and models. This review reveals that complementary studies using standardized methods are mandatory before ascertaining that UV filters threaten human health.
SNX3 recruits to phagosomes and negatively regulates phagocytosis in dendritic cells
Authors: Chua Rong Yuan Ray , Wong Siew Heng
Published: December 2012

Phagocytes such as dendritic cells (DC) and macrophages employ phagocytosis to take up pathogenic bacteria into phagosomes, digest the bacteria and present the bacteria‐derived peptide antigens to the adaptive immunity. Hence, efficient antigen presentation depends greatly on a well‐regulated phagocytosis process. Lipids, particularly phosphoinositides, are critical components of the phagosomes. Phosphatidylinositol‐3,4,5‐triphosphate [PI(3,4,5)P3] is formed at the phagocytic cup, and as the phagosome seals off from the plasma membrane, rapid disappearance of PI(3,4,5)P3 is accompanied by high levels of phosphatidylinositol‐3‐phosphate (PI3P) formation. The sorting nexin (SNX) family consists of a diverse group of Phox‐homology (PX) domain‐containing cytoplasmic and membrane‐associated proteins that are potential effectors of phosphoinositides. We hypothesized that SNX3, a small sorting nexin that contains a single PI3P lipid‐binding PX domain as its only protein domain, localizes to phagosomes and regulates phagocytosis in DC. Our results show that SNX3 recruits to nascent phagosomes and silencing of SNX3 enhances phagocytic uptake of bacteria by DC. Furthermore, SNX3 competes with PI3P lipid‐binding protein, early endosome antigen‐1 (EEA1) recruiting to membranes. Our results indicate that SNX3 negatively regulates phagocytosis in DC possibly by modulating recruitment of essential PI3P lipid‐binding proteins of the phagocytic pathways, such as EEA1, to phagosomal membranes.
Influence of a velocity model and source frequency on microseismic waveforms: some implications for microseismic locations
Authors: Usher P.J. , Angus D.A. , Verdon J.P.
Published: December 2012

In this paper, we examine the influence of a velocity model and microseismic source frequency on microseismic waveforms and event locations. Finite‐difference waveform synthetics are generated based on the Cotton Valley hydraulic fracture experiment, where we vary the vertical heterogeneity of the velocity models as well as the microseismic source frequencies. We find that differences between plausible velocity models lead to changes in arrival times of approximately 0.0035 seconds for P‐waves and 0.0085 seconds for S‐waves. Based on the average P‐ and S‐wave velocities, the difference in the P‐ and S‐wave traveltimes is equivalent to approximately 20 m in location difference. Significant increases in the waveform coda develop with increasing model heterogeneity and increasing source frequency. The presence of signal noise as well as other sources of error (e.g., uncertainty in geophone location) will likely lead to further increase in uncertainty in location error estimates. Thus we note that location error due to incorrect velocity models cannot be ignored.
Intestinal colonization resistance
Authors: Lawley Trevor D. , Walker Alan W.
Published: December 2012

Dense, complex microbial communities, collectively termed the microbiota, occupy a diverse array of niches along the length of the mammalian intestinal tract. During health and in the absence of antibiotic exposure the microbiota can effectively inhibit colonization and overgrowth by invading microbes such as pathogens. This phenomenon is called ‘colonization resistance’ and is associated with a stable and diverse microbiota in tandem with a controlled lack of inflammation, and involves specific interactions between the mucosal immune system and the microbiota. Here we overview the microbial ecology of the healthy mammalian intestinal tract and highlight the microbe–microbe and microbe–host interactions that promote colonization resistance. Emerging themes highlight immunological (T helper type 17/regulatory T‐cell balance), microbiota (diverse and abundant) and metabolic (short‐chain fatty acid) signatures of intestinal health and colonization resistance. Intestinal pathogens use specific virulence factors or exploit antibiotic use to subvert colonization resistance for their own benefit by triggering inflammation to disrupt the harmony of the intestinal ecosystem. A holistic view that incorporates immunological and microbiological facets of the intestinal ecosystem should facilitate the development of immunomodulatory and microbe‐modulatory therapies that promote intestinal homeostasis and colonization resistance.
Affective and motivational factors of learning in online mathematics courses
Authors: Kim ChanMin , Park Seung Won , Cozart Joe
Published: December 2012

We investigated what factors would be related to students' achievement in mathematics courses offered at a virtual high school. This was an attempt to understand why some succeed and some do not as well as to suggest what should be done to help with student success. Seventy‐two students responded to a self‐report survey on motivation (ie, self‐efficacy, intrinsic value), mathematics achievement emotions (ie, anxiety, anger, shame, hopelessness, boredom, enjoyment, pride), and cognitive processes (ie, cognitive strategy use, self‐regulation). A three‐step hierarchical multivariate regression was employed to examine which of the factors predict student achievement. Results showed that motivation accounted for approximately 13% of the variance in student achievement and self‐efficacy was the significant individual predictor of student achievement. However, when achievement emotions were added to the analysis, self‐efficacy failed to predict student achievement and emotions accounted for 37% of the variance in student achievement. Cognitive strategy use and self‐regulation did not explain any additional variance in the final scores. Findings are discussed and implications for future research and development are also suggested.
What Do Healthcare Workers Know About Sudden Infant Death Syndrome?: The Results of the Italian Campaign ‘GenitoriPiù’
Authors: de Luca Federico , Boccuzzo Giovanna
Published: December 2012

The paper analyses the data resulting from the Italian campaign for newborns’ parents, ‘GenitoriPiù’, and focuses on the assessment of healthcare workers’ knowledge about sudden infant death syndrome. Considering two different response sets (dichotomous and polytomous), we used a Rasch model and a logistic quantile regression to analyse which demographic and professional backgrounds influenced the degree of knowledge of this topic. Significant differences between regions are evident, and the effect of training initiatives is proven as a way of rectifying these differences. With regard to professional background, the best-prepared healthcare workers are paediatricians and healthcare workers working in birth centres and family planning clinics.