bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micro-neurosurgical excision of dumbbell shaped very large jugular foramen schwannoma
Authors: Chowdhury Forhad H , Haque Mohammod R , Hasan Mahmudul
Published: October 2012

Introduction: Jugular foramen tumor is a rare tumor. Jugular foramen schwannoma is rarer. This type of tumor may present in combination of different cranial nerve palsies in the form of different syndromes or may also be diagnosed incidentally. Management of such tumor is not straight forward.Case reports: Two young male presented with headache, vomiting, gait instability, right sided hearing loss. Clinically they had different cranial nerves dysfunction. Imaging showed jugular foramen tumor extending from posterior fossa to almost common carotid bifurcation at neck in both cases. Near total microsurgical excisions of the tumor were done through retrosigmoid suboccipital plus transmastoid high cervical approach with facial nerve mobilization in one case and without mobilization in other case. In case 1 combination of lower cranial nerve palsies is unique with inclusion of VIII nerve and that does not belong to any of the jugular foramen syndromes (i.e. Vernet, Collet- Sicard, Villaret, Tapia, Schmidt, and Jackson). Here IX, X, XI, XII and VIII cranial palsies was present (i.e.Collet-Sicard syndrome plus VIII nerve syndrome!). In the second case there was IX & X dysfunction with VIII dysfunction. We also went through the short review of the literature here DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjo.v18i2.12015 Bangladesh J Otorhinolaryngol 2012; 18(2): 183-192
Development of ethosomes with taguchi robust design-based studies for transdermal delivery of alfuzosin hydrochloride
Authors: Prasanthi D , Lakshmi P K
Published: October 2012

In the present investigation efficiency of ethosomes as novel lipid carriers for transdermal delivery of Alfuzosin Hydrochloride (AH) has been evaluated. Taguchi robust design method was used for optimization of ethosomal formulations. Phospholipid type, concentration of phospholipid and concentration of ethanol was selected as independent variables and their effect on the dependent variables (entrapment efficiency and flux) was studied. Ethosomal formulation (EA8) with soya phosphatidylcholine (3%) and ethanol 20% were optimized. Vesicles were spherical, unilamellar with smooth surface. The optimized formulation exhibited vesicle size (6.85 ± 1.35µm), zeta potential (-8.14 ± 0.62mv), entrapment efficiency (91.86 ± 3.25%), flux (27.42 ± 0.04µg/cm2/hr), lag time (0.26±0.20hr) and skin deposition (298.01 ± 15.4µg/g). Transdermal flux was enhanced by 6.92 times over drug solution. Vesicle skin interaction studies showed fatty change in the dermis. The formulations were stable at 4°C for 120 days. Results suggested ethosomes as efficient carriers for AH transdermal delivery.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/icpj.v1i11.12063 International Current Pharmaceutical Journal 2012, 1(11): 370-375
Increased Fdg Uptake in Association with Reduced Extremity Fat in HIV Patients
Authors: Torriani Martin , Zanni Markella V , Fitch Kathleen , Stavrou Eleni , Bredella Miriam A , Lim Ruth , Cypess Aaron M , Grinspoon Steven
Published: October 2012

Background

HIV lipodystrophy – characterized by peripheral lipoatrophy, with or without central fat accumulation – confers increased metabolic risk. However, the functional activity of HIV lipodystrophic tissue in relation to metabolic risk has yet to be fully explored in vivo through the use of non-invasive imaging techniques. This study assesses the relationship between FDG uptake in various fat depots and metabolic/immune parameters among subjects with HIV lipodystrophy.

Methods

Lipodystrophic men on antiretroviral therapy underwent whole-body 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET)/computed tomography scans and detailed metabolic/immune phenotyping.

Results

FDG uptake in the subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) of the extremities (mean standardized uptake value [SUV] of the arm and leg SAT) was found to correlate with the degree of peripheral lipoatrophy ( r=0.7; P=0.01). Extremity SAT FDG uptake was positively associated with homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR; r=0.6; P=0.02) and fasting hyperinsulinaemia ( r=0.7; P=0.01), while fat percentage of extremities was not. Furthermore, extremity SAT FDG uptake was significantly associated with CD4+ T-cell count ( r=0.6; P=0.05). In multivariate modelling for HOMA-IR, extremity SAT FDG uptake remained significant after controlling for body mass index and tumour necrosis factor-α (R2 for model =0.71, P=0.02; SUV in the extremity SAT β-estimate 12.3, P=0.009).

Conclusions

In HIV lipodystrophic patients, extremity SAT FDG uptake is increased in association with reduced extremity fat and may contribute to insulin resistance. Non-invasive assessments of in situ inflammation using FDG-PET may usefully complement histological and gene expression analyses of metabolic dysregulation in peripheral fat among HIV-positive patients.
Mobile Payment Protocol for Tag-to-Tag Near Field Communication (NFC)
Authors: Husni Emir Mauludi
Published: October 2012

Communication between the near field communication (NFC) devices occurs in a very close distance of less than 10 cm. In the NFC-based payment system, close proximity between devices will increase the security of transactions. The disadvantage is the interaction between devices requires more physical activity of device owners because the device must be brought near to other devices some times. Besides requiring more physical activity, NFC-based interaction also takes a longer time because the device needs to be moved from one position to another. This paper proposed secure and efficient protocol that will reduce the physical activity of the device owners and reducing transaction time. The data exchange between merchant and payer will be executed without waiting for each other and one transaction will require two data transmissions are performed by the merchant and payer. Transactions are secured by the use of encryption on each data which sent by the merchant and payer. In addition, the protocol also guarantees the security of offline micro transactions and online macros transactions.
Fibrillary Glomerulonephritis
Authors: Karanam Karthik P. , Decker Brian S.
Published: October 2012

Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) is a rare disorder characterized by Congo-red negative fibrillary deposits in the glomeruli. The incidence of FGN in native renal biopsies is only 0.8–1.5%. The pathological hallmark of FGN is fibrillary deposits in the mesangium and glomerular basement membrane. These fibrils are straight, non-branching and randomly oriented. In the majority of patients, FGN presents with nephrotic syndrome. Renal insufficiency is present in two-thirds of patients with a mean serum creatinine of 2.1 mg/dL. Approximately one-half of FGN patients progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Renal biopsy establishes the diagnosis of FGN. Light microscopy findings include amorphous acellular deposits in the glomeruli. In the mesangium these deposits have a smudged texture and form a pseudolinear or confluent granular pattern along the basement membrane. Immunofluorescent studies of the biopsy tissue in FGN show staining for polyclonal Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and complement with a tendency towards higher IgG and C3. Electron microscopy reveals extensive infiltration of the glomerular basement membrane with spike formation. Standard therapeutic treatments for FGN have not been well defined. The clinical outcome of patients with FGN is not encouraging. In a recent study, 44% of patients with FGN progressed to ESRD. The average time to progress to ESRD was 2–4 years. Immuno-suppressant therapies that include corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide and cyclosporine, and most recently rituximab, have not demonstrated uniform clinical success.
Do the prophetic and reformist approaches in Christian ethics exclude one another? A responsibility ethics attempt at reconciliation
Authors: De Villiers D. Etienne
Published: October 2012

In the article the view that was expressed in, inter alia, the Kairos Document, that the prophetic and reformist approaches in Christian Ethics exclude one another, was challenged. A case was argued against this view by drawing on Reinhard Kratz’s book on the latest research findings on prophecy in the Old Testament, James Gustafson’s distinction of four modes of moral discourse and Walter Brueggemann’s view that prophetic texts are acts of imagination that offer and purpose ‘alternative worlds’. The conclusion was that the prophetic and reformist approaches rather complement, overlap and interpenetrate one another. In the last part of the article an argument was presented that both of the two approaches can be accommodated and integrated in a Christian ethics of responsibility. Sluit die profetiese en hervormingsbenaderings in die Christelike etiek mekaar uit? ‘n Verantwoordelikheidsetiese poging tot versoening. In die artikel is standpunt ingeneem teen die beskouing wat onder andere in die Kairos Dokument uitdrukking vind, dat die profetiese en hervormingsbenaderings in die Christelike Etiek mekaar uitsluit. ‘n Saak is beredeneer teen hierdie beskouing met ‘n beroep op Reinhard Kratz se boek oor die nuutste bevindings oor Ou Testamentiese profesie, James Gustafson se onderskeiding van vier modi van morele diskoers en Walter Brueggemann se beskouing dat profetiese tekste verbeeldingryk aan ons die moontlikheid van ‘n alternatiewe wêreld voorhou. Die gevolgtrekking was dat die profetiese en hervormingsbenaderings mekaar eerder aanvul, oorvleuel en bevrug. In die laaste gedeelte van die artikel was geredeneer dat beide hierdie benaderings geakkommodeer en geïntegreer kan word in ‘n Christelike etiek van verantwoordelikheid.
Tropospheric impact of methane emissions from clathrates in the Arctic Region
Authors: Bhattacharyya S. , Cameron-Smith P. , Bergmann D. , Reagan M. , Elliott S. , Moridis G.
Published: October 2012

Abstract. A highly potent greenhouse gas, methane, is locked in the solid phase as ice-like deposits containing a mixture of water and gas (mostly methane) called clathrates in both ocean sediments and underneath permafrost regions. Clathrates are stable under high pressures and low temperatures. In a warming climate, increases in ocean temperatures could lead to dissociation of the clathrates and release methane into the ocean and subsequently the atmosphere. This is of particular importance in the shallow parts of the Arctic Ocean, since clathrates are expected to start outgassing abruptly at depths of around 300 m. In this paper, we present a comparison of simulations from the Community Earth System Model (CESM1) for present-day conditions with and without additional methane emissions from a plausible clathrate release scenario based on a state-of-the-art ocean sediment model. The CESM model includes a fully interactive physical ocean and we added a fast atmospheric chemistry mechanism that represents methane as a fully interactive tracer (with emissions rather than concentration boundary conditions) along with the main chemical reactions for methane, ozone, and nitrous oxide. The results show that such Arctic clathrate emissions increase methane concentrations non-uniformly, and that increases in surface ozone concentrations are greatest in polluted regions. We also find that the interannual variability in surface methane and ozone increases.
Chemoselective Synthesis of Naphthylamides and Isoquinolinones via Rhodium‐Catalyzed Oxidative Dehydrogenative Annulation of Benzamides with Alkynes
Authors: Shi Zhuangzhi , Tang Conghui , Jiao Ning
Published: October 2012

A rhodium(III)‐catalyzed direct dehydrogenative annulation of benzamides with alkynes through chelating‐assisted CH activation has been developed. Naphthylamide and isoquinolinone derivatives can be chemoselectively obtained by this protocol.
Geomorphic coupling between hillslopes and channels in the Swiss Alps
Authors: Savi Sara , Schneuwly‐Bollschweiler Michelle , Bommer‐Denns Bastian , Stoffel Markus , Schlunegger Fritz
Published: October 2012

The coupling relationships between hillslope and channel network are fundamental for the understanding of mountainous landscapes' evolution. Here, we applied dendrogeomorphic methods to identify the hillslope–channel relationship and the sediment transfer dynamics within an alpine catchment, at the highest possible resolution. The Schimbrig catchment is located in the central Swiss Alps and can be divided into two distinct geomorphic sectors. To the east, the Schimbrig earth flow is the largest sediment source of the basin, while to the west, the Rossloch channel network is affected by numerous shallow landslides responsible for the supply of sediment from hillslopes to channels. To understand the connectivity between hillslopes and channels and between sources and sink, trees were sampled along the main Rossloch stream, on the Schimbrig earth flow and on the Rossloch depositional area. Geomorphic observations and dendrogeomophic results indicate different mechanisms of sediment production, transfer and deposition between upper and lower segments of the channel network. In the source areas (upper part of the Rossloch channel system), sediment is delivered to the channel network through slow movements of the ground, typical of earth flow, shallow landslides and soil creep. Contrariwise, in the depositional area (lower part of the channel network), the mechanisms of sediment transfer are mainly due to torrential activity, floods and debris flows. Tree analysis allowed the reconstruction of periods of high activity during the last century for the entire catchment. The collected dataset presents a very high temporal resolution but we encountered some limitations in establishing the source‐to‐sink connectivity at the catchment‐wide scale. Despite these uncertainties, for decennial timescales the results suggest a direct coupling between hillslopes and neighbouring channels in the Rossloch channel network, and a de‐coupling between sediment sources and sink farther downstream, with connections possible only during extraordinary events. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Visfatin induces stromal cell‐derived factor‐1 expression by β1 integrin signaling in colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Huang Wen‐Shih , Chen Cheng‐Nan , Sze Chun‐I , Teng Chih‐Chuan
Published: October 2012

Obesity has been shown to be associated with the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). Adipokines produced by the adipose tissue are linked to some malignancies, including CRC. Visfatin is an adipokine shown to be a biomarker of CRC malignant potential. In addition, the stromal cell‐derived factor‐1 (SDF‐1) has been reported to play a role in CRC progression. Although the relationship between visfatin and CRC has been established, the underlying mechanism has not been clarified. We investigated the molecular mechanism governing the interaction between visfatin stimulation and SDF‐1 expression in human CRC cell lines. We found that visfatin stimulation led to an increase in the expression and secretion of SDF‐1 in CRC DLD‐1 and SW48 cells. Experiments involving specific inhibitors and small interfering RNA demonstrated that the activation of ERK and p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways are critical for visfatin‐induced SDF‐1 expression. Analysis of transcription factor binding using ELISA and luciferase reporter assays revealed that visfatin increased NF‐κB‐ and AP‐1‐DNA‐binding activities in DLD‐1 cells. Inhibition of NF‐κB and AP‐1 activation blocked the visfatin‐induced expression and activity of the SDF‐1 promoter. The effect of visfatin on DLD‐1 signaling and SDF‐1 expression was mediated by β1 integrin. In summary, these findings provide novel insights pertaining to the pathophysiological role of visfatin in CRC. J. Cell. Physiol. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An fMRI investigation of working memory and its relationship with cardiorespiratory fitness in pediatric posterior fossa tumor survivors who received cranial radiation therapy
Authors: Wolfe Kelly R. , Madan‐Swain Avi , Hunter Gary R. , Reddy Alyssa T. , Baños James , Kana Rajesh K.
Published: October 2012

Background

The present study investigated the relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness and executive functioning in pediatric brain tumor survivors who received cranial radiation. This population is known to show executive dysfunction and lower rates of aerobic exercise compared to peers.

Procedure

Nine adolescent survivors of pediatric posterior fossa tumor completed an n‐back working memory task during a functional MRI scan, as well as cardiorespiratory fitness testing on a cycle ergometer.

Results

Neuroimaging findings indicated typical activation patterns associated with working memory, mainly in the frontal–parietal network. Higher cardiorespiratory fitness was related to better performance on a behavioral measure of working memory and more efficient neural functioning.

Conclusions

This study provides preliminary evidence that cardiorespiratory fitness may be related to executive functioning, particularly working memory, in pediatric brain tumor survivors. Descriptions of the brain regions recruited for working memory by pediatric brain tumor survivors may be used to inform future interventions or indicators of treatment efficacy. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013; 60: 669–675. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Aspergillus galactomannan antigen assay and invasive aspergillosis in pediatric cancer patients and hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients
Authors: Choi Soo‐Han , Kang Eun‐Suk , Eo Hong , Yoo So‐Young , Kim Ji Hye , Yoo Keon Hee , Sung Ki Woong , Koo Hong Hoe , Kim Yae‐Jean
Published: October 2012

Background

Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised children. We investigated the usefulness of an Aspergillus galactomannan (GM) antigen assay as a diagnostic tool for IA in pediatric cancer patients and hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) recipients.

Procedure

The GM antigen assay results were analyzed in 749 blood samples from 99 patients. A GM index (GMI) greater than or equal to 0.5 on at least two separate occasions was considered positive. A review of the clinical data was performed for subjects with proven or probable IA.

Results

Twenty‐one of 23 patients with proven or probable IA had positive GM antigen test results (91.3% sensitivity, 95% CI 71.9–98.9; 81.7% specificity, 95% CI 69.6–90.5; P < 0.0001). The false‐positive rate was 18.3%. Being younger than 3 years of age, having a solid tumor, and receiving HCT within 4 weeks of the test were statistically significant factors for causing false‐positive results (P < 0.05). Among the 23 patients with IA (six proven, 17 probable), 16 (69.6%) had hematological malignancies, five (22.7%) had solid tumors, and two (8.7%) had primary immunodeficiency. Nineteen patients (82.6%) received HCT. The most common clinical site of IA was the lungs (91.3%), and consolidation was the most frequent finding in chest CT scans (36.8%). The mortality at 12 weeks was 43.5%.

Conclusions

Having a positive GM assay at least twice is useful in diagnosing IA in pediatric patients with cancer and HCT recipients. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013;60:316–322. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Animal Friendships
Authors: Dagg Anne Innis
Published: October 2012

Research into social behaviour in animals has often focused on aggression, yet members of social species are far more likely to interact with each other in a positive way. Animal Friendships explores non-sexual bonding behaviours in a range of mammalian and avian species. Through analysis of factors which trigger and deepen friendships, Dagg uncovers a world of intricate and complex social interactions. These factors include sources of food, formation of coalitions, playdates for infants, mutual grooming and the apparent pleasure of simple companionship. Chapters cover different types of friendship: from those between two individuals, such as male-female or parent-offspring friendships, to those within family groups and even inter-species friendships. Not only does the book explore how and why friendships form, it also showcases the ingenious field techniques used by researchers enabling the reader to understand the scientific methodology. An invaluable read for both researchers and students studying animal social bonding.
For critical social-ecological system studies: integrating power and discourses to move beyond the right institutional fit
Authors: CLEMENT FLORIANE
Published: October 2012

Overcoming the ‘panacea problem’ has been a major challenge for scholars devoted to the study of social-ecological systems (SESs). Panaceas are overly simplified institutional prescriptions, which have recurrently misguided natural resource policies across the world. To address this challenge, SES-scholars have focused their efforts on identifying the right institutional fit for a particular system, and a major initiative to refine the analysis of human-environment interaction has been the development of a multi-tiered interdisciplinary framework, called the SES framework. SES studies and analytical frameworks need to go beyond their current focus on finding the right institutional fit by positing power and discourses as key components of the analysis of SESs.
Aggregation of non-polar solutes in water at different pressures and temperatures: The role of hydrophobic interaction
Authors: Ferrara C. Gastón , Chara Osvaldo , Grigera J. Raúl
Published: October 2012

Due to the importance of the hydrophobic interaction in protein folding, we decided to study the effect of pressure and temperature on the phase transitions of non-polar solutes in water, and thereby their solubility, using molecular dynamics simulations. The main results are: (1) within a certain range, temperature induces the aggregation of Lennard-Jones particles in water; and (2) pressure induces disaggregation of the formed clusters. From the simulated data, a non-monotonic coexistence curve for the binary system was obtained, from which a critical point of Tc = 383 ± 9 K and pc = 937 ± 11 bar was determined. The results are in accordance with previous experimental evidence involving transitions of hydrocarbons in water mixtures, and protein unfolding.
BDflex: A method for efficient treatment of molecular flexibility in calculating protein-ligand binding rate constants from Brownian dynamics simulations
Authors: Greives Nicholas , Zhou Huan-Xiang
Published: October 2012

A method developed by Northrup et al. [J. Chem. Phys. 80, 1517 (1984)]10.1063/1.446900 for calculating protein-ligand binding rate constants (ka) from Brownian dynamics (BD) simulations has been widely used for rigid molecules. Application to flexible molecules is limited by the formidable computational cost to treat conformational fluctuations during the long BD simulations necessary for ka calculation. Here, we propose a new method called BDflex for ka calculation that circumvents this problem. The basic idea is to separate the whole space into an outer region and an inner region, and formulate ka as the product of kE and $\bar \eta _{\rm d} $η¯d, which are obtained by separately solving exterior and interior problems. kE is the diffusion-controlled rate constant for the ligand in the outer region to reach the dividing surface between the outer and inner regions; in this exterior problem conformational fluctuations can be neglected. $\bar \eta _{\rm d} $η¯d is the probability that the ligand, starting from the dividing surface, will react at the binding site rather than escape to infinity. The crucial step in reducing the determination of $\bar \eta _{\rm d} $η¯d to a problem confined to the inner region is a radiation boundary condition imposed on the dividing surface; the reactivity on this boundary is proportional to kE. By confining the ligand to the inner region and imposing the radiation boundary condition, we avoid multiple-crossing of the dividing surface before reaction at the binding site and hence dramatically cut down the total simulation time, making the treatment of conformational fluctuations affordable. BDflex is expected to have wide applications in problems where conformational fluctuations of the molecules are crucial for productive ligand binding, such as in cases where transient widening of a bottleneck allows the ligand to access the binding pocket, or the binding site is properly formed only after ligand entrance induces the closure of a lid.
A titanium-nitride near-infrared kinetic inductance photon-counting detector and its anomalous electrodynamics
Authors: Gao J. , Vissers M. R. , Sandberg M. O. , da Silva F. C. S. , Nam S. W. , Pappas D. P. , Wisbey D. S. , Langman E. C. , Meeker S. R. , Mazin B. A. , Leduc H. G. , Zmuidzinas J. , Irwin K. D.
Published: October 2012

We demonstrate single-photon counting at 1550 nm with titanium-nitride (TiN) microwave kinetic inductance detectors. Full-width-at-half-maximum energy resolution of 0.4 eV is achieved. 0-, 1-, 2-photon events are resolved and shown to follow Poisson statistics. We find that the temperature-dependent frequency shift deviates from the Mattis-Bardeen theory, and the dissipation response shows a shorter decay time than the frequency response at low temperatures. We suggest that the observed anomalous electrodynamics may be related to quasiparticle traps or subgap states in the disordered TiN films. Finally, the electron density-of-states is derived from the pulse response.
Burden of Clostridium difficile Infection in Long-Term Care Facilities in Monroe County, New York
Authors: Pawar Deepa , Tsay Rebecca , Nelson Deborah S. , Elumalai Meena Kumari , Lessa Fernanda C. , McDonald L. Clifford , Dumyati Ghinwa
Published: October 2012

Background.

Long-term care facility (LTCF) residents are at increased risk of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). However, little is known about the incidence, recurrence, and severity of CDI in LTCFs or the extent to which acute care exposure contributes to CDI in LTCFs. We describe the epidemiology of CDI in a cohort of LTCF residents in Monroe County, New York, where recent estimates suggest a CDI incidence in hospitals of 9.2 cases per 10,000 patient-days.

Design.

Population-based surveillance study.

Setting.

Monroe County, New York.

Patients.

LTCF residents with onset of CDI while in the LTCF or less than 4 calendar-days after hospital admission from the LTCF from January 1 through December 31, 2010.

Methods.

We conducted surveillance for CDI in residents of 33 LTCFs. A CDI case was defined as a stool specimen positive for C. difficile obtained from a patient without a C. difficile-positive specimen in the previous 8 weeks; recurrence was defined as a stool specimen positive for C. difficile obtained between 2 and 8 weeks after the last C. difficile-positive stool specimen.

Results.

There were 425 LTCF-onset cases and 184 recurrences, which yielded an incidence of 2.3 cases per 10,000 resident-days (interquartile range [IQR], 1.2–3.3) and a recurrence rate of 1.0 case per 10,000 resident-days (IQR, 0.3–1.4). The cases occurred in 394 LTCF residents, and 52% of these residents developed CDI within 4 weeks after hospital discharge. Hospitalization for CDI occurred in 70 cases (16%). Of those cases that involved hospitalization for CDI, 70% were severe CDI, and 23% ended in death within 30 days after hospital admission.

Conclusion.

CDI incidence in Monroe County LTCFs is one-fourth the incidence among hospitalized patients. Approximately 50% of LTCF-onset cases occurred more than 4 weeks after hospital discharge, which emphasizes that prevention of CDI transmission should go beyond acute care settings.
Global biogeography and diversification of palms sheds light on the evolution of tropical lineages. I. Historical biogeography
Authors: Baker William J. , Couvreur Thomas L.P.
Published: October 2012

Aim

Palms (Arecaceae/Palmae) are a model group for evolutionary studies in the tropics. Family‐wide data on taxonomy, phylogenetics and distribution are now available, but a general framework of palm evolution is still lacking. The overall aim of this study, published in two companion papers, is to seek evolutionary explanations for the geographical distribution of palm lineages and species diversity patterns at global and regional levels. In this first paper we undertake a detailed analysis of palm biogeography for all major lineages in a global context, comparing our results to the fossil record, molecular dating studies and previously established biogeographical hypotheses for the family.

Location

Global.

Methods

A dated phylogeny of all palm genera and distributional data were used to infer ancestral areas. A global model of area evolution for tropical lineages was formulated and ancestral areas were reconstructed using a maximum likelihood approach under the dispersal–extinction–cladogenesis model.

Results

The crown node divergence of palms and divergences of all five subfamilies occurred before the end of the Cretaceous within Laurasian regions. Early range expansions into South America took place in the stem lineages of subfamilies Arecoideae and Ceroxyloideae, and into Africa and South America in Cretaceous lineages within subfamily Calamoideae. The largest subfamily Arecoideae underwent its early diversification history in South America and has been an important source of lineages expanding into other regions, notably in the major Indo‐Pacific tribe Areceae. In contrast, the history of subfamily Coryphoideae was primarily Laurasian, supporting earlier boreotropical hypotheses for the group. Dispersals across Wallace's Line are prevalent in major groups of Arecoideae, Calamoideae and Coryphoideae, both before and after the Miocene geological evolution of the Malesian Archipelago.

Main conclusions

We present the first robust biogeographical hypothesis for the evolution of palms in space and time. Although palms show evidence of dispersal limitation, our findings highlight the role of long‐distance dispersal events in the establishment of major biogeographical patterns of palm clades. This is consistent with the growing evidence for long‐distance dispersal as a major mechanism underpinning the distribution of tropical lineages.
Psychological distress among women who were sexually abused as children
Authors: Rahm GullBritt , Renck Barbro , Ringsberg Karin C.
Published: October 2012

One of the aims of the study was to investigate how participants in self‐help groups (SHG) for women (n = 87) who had been sexually abused in childhood rated their mental health and to what extent they were at risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A further aim was to investigate the relationship between the ratings of mental health, occurrence of PTSD, women's interpersonal relationships, reasons for participating in an SHG and characteristics of the childhood sexual abuse (CSA). The participants completed questionnaires regarding their personal relationships, reasons for joining a group, abuse characteristics, mental health (Symptom Checklist‐90‐Revised) and PTSD (Impact of Event Scale‐Revised). The women showed poor mental health, and more than half of them were at risk of developing PTSD. Lack of social support and feelings of shame correlated with poor mental health, whereas guilt did not. Relationships with female friends had a positive association. Further research is needed to determine whether participating in an SHG could provide adequate social support and reduce feelings of shame, thereby contributing to the healing process in the aftermath of CSA.

Key Practitioner Message: • Child abuse is a significant component of the global burden of disease; • Both social workers and public health care providers meet sexually abused girls and it is important that they have knowledge about the subject; • An important clinical implication for adequate treatment would be to assess and recognise childhood sexual abuse and to link diagnosis to trauma.
Impact of elevated CO2 and increased temperature on Japanese beetle herbivory
Authors: Niziolek Olivia K. , Berenbaum May R. , DeLucia Evan H.
Published: October 2012

To examine how the major elements of global change affect herbivory in agroecosystems, a multifactorial experiment was conducted where soybeans were grown at two levels of carbon dioxide and temperature, including those predicted for 2050, under otherwise normal field conditions. Japanese beetles (Popillia japonica Newman) were enclosed on foliage for 24 h, after which the beetle survivorship, total and per capita leaf consumption, and leaf protease inhibitor activity were measured. The direct effect of temperature on beetle consumption and survivorship also was measured under controlled environmental conditions. No differences in total foliage consumption were observed; however, beetles forced to feed at elevated temperature in the field demonstrated greater per capita consumption and reduced survivorship compared to beetles feeding at ambient temperature. Survivorship was also greater for beetles that consumed foliage grown under elevated CO2, but there were no interactive effects of CO2 and temperature, and no differences in leaf chemistry were resolved. Leaf consumption by beetles increased strongly with increasing temperature up to ∼37° C, above which increased mortality caused a precipitous decrease in consumption. An empirical model based on the temperature dependence of leaf consumption and flight suggests that the 3.5°C increase in temperature predicted for 2050 will increase the optimal feeding window for the Japanese beetle by 290%. Elevated temperature and CO2 operating independently have the potential to greatly increase foliage damage to soybean by chewing insects, such as Popillia japonica, potentially affecting crop yields.
Does Chinese Herb Nephropathy Account for the High Incidence of End-Stage Renal Disease in Taiwan?
Authors: Lin Wu Fe-Lin , Chen Yung-Ming , Lai Tai-Shuan , Shen Li-Jiuan , Ho Yunn-Fang , Lee Yi-Ting , Wu Ming-Show , Lin Shuei-Liong , Wu Kwan-Dun
Published: October 2012

Background: The incidence of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in Taiwan ranks highest in the world, but the incidence of Chinese herb nephropathy (CHN) is unknown in this country where Chinese herb use is common. Methods: The etiologies of incident ESRD cases from 2000 to 2004 in a single tertiary referral medical center in Taiwan were independently reviewed by two nephrologists through medical records and telephone interview. Patients with obvious causes of ESRD were not diagnosed with CHN, in spite of Chinese herb use. Three categories of CHN (A, B and C) were defined according to the stringency of evidence. Results: Obvious causes of ESRD were identified in 1,359 out of 1,696 newly diagnosed ESRD patients. Among the remainders, 263 had histories of Chinese herb use; 164 patients (mean age 52.7 ± 13.2 years, female 71.6%) had CHN (category A: 51, category B: 38 and category C: 75). Among the three categories, there was no difference in age, gender, body mass index (BMI) or elapsed time from Chinese herb use to the detection of renal failure. In comparison with non-CHN patients (n = 99), more CHN patients were female, had lower BMI, lower blood pressure, shorter duration of Chinese herb use, less severe proteinuria, smaller kidney size, lower levels of hemoglobin and higher serum chloride levels (all p values <0.01). Conclusion: Based on highly stringent diagnostic criteria, nearly 10% of incident ESRD cases were due to CHN. CHN represents a significant cause of ESRD in Taiwan.
Changes in N-Terminal Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide Correlate with Fluid Volume Changes Assessed by Bioimpedance in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Davenport Andrew
Published: October 2012

Background/Aims: Both brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and volume overload are reported to be powerful predictors of survival for peritoneal dialysis patients. The usefulness of single BNP determinations in helping determine volume status in peritoneal dialysis patients remains controversial, so we reviewed serial BNP and multifrequency bioimpedance measurements to determine whether changes in BNP reflected changes in volume status. Methods: Prospective measurements of fluid volume by multifrequency bioimpedance and serum N-terminal pro-BNP (NTproBNP) were conducted in stable adult peritoneal dialysis outpatients attending for routine assessments of peritoneal dialysis adequacy and transport status. Results: A total of 189 serial measurements were made in 92 patients, and NTproBNP increased from a median of 162.5 pmol/l (interquartile range 82–385.4) to 195 pmol/l (interquartile range 101.9–348.6; p < 0.05). Changes in NTproBNP correlated with changes in extracellular water (ECW), total body water (TBW) and ECW/TBW (r = 0.38, 0.31 and 0.45, respectively; all p < 0.0001). Patients were divided into quartiles depending upon NTproBNP changes; those with the greatest fall in NTproBNP had significant falls in ECW (p < 0.001), TBW (p = 0.001) and ECW/TBW (p < 0.001) compared to the quartile with the greatest increase in NTproBNP, who also had an increase in systolic blood pressure from 133.5 ± 22.7 to 142.7 ± 28.8 mm Hg (p = 0.0078), whereas it fell in the quartile with the greatest fall in NTproBNP (143.8 ± 24.6 vs. 136.5 ± 18.7 mm Hg). Conclusions: Serial measurements of NTproBNP correlated with changes in volume assessments made by multifrequency bioimpedance in peritoneal dialysis outpatients. As multifrequency bioimpedance measures total ECW, rather than effective plasma volume, serial NTproBNP determinations may prove an adjunct to the clinical assessment of volume status in peritoneal dialysis patients.
Influence of asthma definition on the asthma-obesity relationship
Authors: Cetlin Andrea Antunes , Gutierrez Manoel Romeu , Bettiol Heloísa , Barbieri Marco Antônio , Vianna Elcio Oliveira
Published: October 2012

Background

Epidemiological studies suggest an association between obesity and asthma in adults and children. Asthma diagnosis criteria are different among studies. The aim of this study was to test the influence of asthma definition on the asthma-obesity relationship.

Methods

In a cross-sectional analysis of 1922 men and women, subjects completed a translated questionnaire from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey and underwent spirometry and a bronchial challenge test. Weight, height and waist circumference were measured. Multiple logistic regression analysis was carried out to assess the association of variables related to obesity and asthma. Asthma was defined either by the presence of symptoms with bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) or by a self-report of a physician-made diagnosis. The following variables were separately tested for associations with asthma: socioeconomic characteristics, schooling, physical activity, smoking status, anthropometry and spirometry.

Results

No association was detected between asthma confirmed by BHR and obesity indicators, odds ratio (OR) = 1.08 (95% confidence interval: 0.69 - 1.68) for obesity assessed by body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m2; OR = 1.02 (0.74 - 1.40) for obesity assessed by abnormal waist-to-height ratio; and, OR = 0.96 (0.69 - 1.33) for abnormal waist circumference. On the contrary, a previous diagnosis of asthma was associated with obesity, OR = 1.48 (1.01 - 2.16) for body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m2; OR = 1.48 (1.13 - 1.93) for abnormal waist-to-height ratio; and, OR = 1.32 (1.00 – 1.75) for abnormal waist circumference. Female gender, schooling ≥ 12 years and smoking were associated with BHR-confirmed asthma. Physically inactive subjects were associated with a previous diagnosis of asthma.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that the relationship between asthma and obesity in epidemiological studies depends on the definition adopted. Certain components of asthma, for instance, symptoms may be more prone to the obesity influence than other ones, like bronchial hyperresponsiveness.
The stress signalling pathway nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 is activated in the liver of sows during lactation
Authors: Rosenbaum Susann , Ringseis Robert , Hillen Sonja , Becker Sabrina , Erhardt Georg , Reiner Gerald , Eder Klaus
Published: October 2012

Background

It has recently been shown that the lactation-induced inflammatory state in the liver of dairy cows is accompanied by activation of the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway, which regulates the expression of antioxidant and cytoprotective genes and thereby protects tissues from inflammatory mediators and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The present study aimed to study whether the Nrf2 pathway is activated also in the liver of lactating sows.

Findings

Transcript levels of known Nrf2 target genes, UGT1A1 (encoding glucuronosyltransferase 1 family, polypeptide A1), HO-1 (encoding heme oxygenase 1), NQO1 (encoding NAD(P)H dehydrogenase, quinone 1), GPX1 (encoding glutathione peroxidase), PRDX6 (encoding peroxiredoxin 6), TXNRD1 (encoding thioredoxin reductase 1), and SOD (encoding superoxide dismutase), in the liver are significantly elevated (between 1.7 and 3.1 fold) in lactating sows compared to non-lactating sows. The inflammatory state in the liver was evidenced by the finding that transcript levels of genes encoding acute phase proteins, namely haptoglobin (HP), fibrinogen γ (FGG), complement factor B (CFB), C-reactive protein (CRP) and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), were significantly higher (2 to 8.7 fold) in lactating compared to non-lactating sows.

Conclusions

The results of the present study indicate that the Nrf2 pathway in the liver of sows is activated during lactation. The activation of Nrf2 pathway during lactation in sows might be interpreted as a physiologic means to counteract the inflammatory process and to protect the liver against damage induced by inflammatory signals and ROS.
Critical review of laboratory investigations in clinical practice guidelines: proposals for the description of investigation
Authors: Aakre Kristin M. , Langlois Michel R. , Watine Joseph , Barth Julian H. , Baum Hannsjörg , Collinson Paul , Laitinen Païvi , Oosterhuis Wytze P.
Published: October 2012

Background: Correct information provided by guidelines may reduce laboratory test related errors during the pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical phase and increase the quality of laboratory results.

Methods: Twelve clinical practice guidelines were reviewed regarding inclusion of important laboratory investigations. Based on the results and the authors’ experience, two checklists were developed: one comprehensive list including topics that authors of guidelines may consider and one consisting of minimal standards that should be covered for all laboratory tests recommended in clinical practice guidelines. The number of topics addressed by the guidelines was related to involvement of laboratory medicine specialists in the guideline development process.

Results: The comprehensive list suggests 33 pre- analytical, 37 analytical and 10 post-analytical items. The mean percentage of topics dealt with by the guidelines was 33% (median 30%, range 17%–55%) and inclusion of a laboratory medicine specialist in the guideline committee significantly increased the number of topics addressed. Information about patient status, biological and analytical interferences and sample handling were scarce in most guidelines even if the inclusion of a laboratory medicine specialist in the development process seemingly led to increased focus on, e.g., sample type, sample handling and analytical variation. Examples underlining the importance of including laboratory items are given.

Conclusions: Inclusion of laboratory medicine specialist in the guideline development process may increase the focus on important laboratory related items even if this information is usually limited. Two checklists are suggested to help guideline developers to cover all important topics related to laboratory testing.
Quantification of Grain, Pore, and Fluid Microstructure of Unsaturated Sand from X-Ray Computed Tomography Images
Authors: Willson Clinton S. , Lu Ning , Likos William J.
Published: October 2012

A comprehensive series of three-dimensional x-ray computed tomography (XCT) imaging experiments was conducted to quantitatively assess the multiphase particle- and pore-scale properties of fine Ottawa (F-75) sand. The specimens were prepared to saturations ranging from approximately 5 % to 80 %. Specimens were doped with 10 % CsCl pore fluid solution and imaged using a monochromatic synchrotron x-ray source at energies below and above the Cs x-ray absorption k-edge to allow for high contrast between the solid, liquid, and air phases. Multiphase properties quantified from the XCT images included individual particle sizes and areas, as well as grain size distribution, pore shape and size distribution, water menisci distribution, solid, liquid, and gas surface areas, and particle contact coordination number. At low saturations, pore water is distributed primarily in the form of pendular rings and liquid bridges located between individual grains and in the smallest pore throats and bodies. A highly discontinuous water phase is evident as a large number of separately identifiable water units having very small volume. As the water saturation increases, the number of individual water units decreases; as expected, the average volume of these units increases significantly as the pore water coalesces into larger and larger units. Results obtained using SEM imaging and conventional geotechnical testing methods for particle-size distribution and soil–water retention were compared with those derived from analysis of the XCT images. Results compare very well in each case, typically within a few %. It is shown that the XCT is a reliable and non-destructive method to quantify pore-scale information vital to advance understanding of the hydrologic and mechanical behavior of unsaturated soils at the macroscale.
Testing of a Bridge Weigh-in-Motion Algorithm Utilising Multiple Longitudinal Sensor Locations
Authors: González Arturo , Dowling Jason , O’Brien Eugene J. , Žnidarič Aleš
Published: October 2012

A new bridge weigh-in-motion (WIM) algorithm is developed which makes use of strain sensors at multiple longitudinal locations of a bridge to calculate axle weights. The optimisation procedure at the core of the proposed algorithm seeks to minimise the difference between static theory and measurement, a procedure common in the majority of bridge WIM algorithms. In contrast to the single unique value calculated for each axle weight in common Bridge WIM algorithms, the new algorithm provides a time history for each axle based on a set of equations formulated for each sensor at each scan. Studying the determinant of this system of equations, those portions of the time history of calculated axle weights for which the equations are poorly conditioned are removed from the final reckoning of results. The accuracy of the algorithm is related to the ability to remove dynamics and the use of a precise influence line. These issues are addressed through the use of a robust moving average filter and a calibration procedure based on using trucks from ambient traffic. The influence of additional longitudinal sensor locations on the determinant of the system of equations is discussed. Sensitivity analyses are carried out to analyse the effect of a misread axle spacing or velocity on the predictions, and as a result, the algorithm reveals an ability to identify potentially erroneous predictions. The improvement in accuracy of the calculated axle weights with respect to common approaches is shown, first using numerical simulations based on a vehicle-bridge interaction finite-element model, and second using experimental data from a beam-and-slab bridge in Slovenia.