bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dispersal limitation is stronger in communities of microorganisms than macroorganisms across Central European cities
Authors: Chytrý Milan , Lososová Zdeňka , Horsák Michal , Uher Bohuslav , Čejka Tomáš , Danihelka Jiří , Fajmon Karel , Hájek Ondřej , Juřičková Lucie , Kintrová Kateřina , Láníková Deana , Otýpková Zdenka , Řehořek Vladimír , Tichý Lubomír
Published: December 2011

Aim  It is generally believed that communities of small organisms, or those with small propagules, are structured mainly by local niche‐based processes, and less by dispersal limitation. Conversely, weaker environmental and stronger spatial structure, indicating dispersal limitation, are expected to occur more frequently in communities of large organisms. However, this hypothesis has rarely been tested by comparing spatial and environmental effects across groups of organisms of different size (or with different size of propagules) sampled at the same set of sites. Here, we test it in urban environments.

Location  Thirty‐two cities in 10 countries of Central Europe and Benelux.

Methods  We compared effects of spatial location and climate on species composition of different groups of organisms sampled in corresponding types of urban habitats. The studied groups were: (1) subaerial cyanobacteria and algae, (2) vascular plants, (3) land snails; and subgroups of vascular plants with different life form and dispersal mode, namely: (4) herbs, (5) animal‐dispersed trees and shrubs, and (6) wind‐dispersed trees and shrubs. Data were analysed by variation partitioning based on redundancy analysis (RDA) with principal coordinates of neighbour matrices (PCNM). Eighteen PCNM eigenvectors (expressing spatial effects) and mean annual temperature, July–January temperature difference and annual precipitation sum (expressing environmental effects) were used as explanatory variables.

Results  Pure effects of climate on species composition, indicating niche‐based processes, were not significant for any group or subgroup of the studied organisms. In contrast, pure effects of space, indicating dispersal limitation, were significant for all groups and subgroups except herbs. Surprisingly, the community of cyanobacteria/algae possessed much stronger spatial structure independent of climate than communities of larger organisms, although cyanobacteria/algae had the lowest beta diversity among the studied cities.

Main conclusions  We hypothesize that the community of subaerial cyanobacteria/algae is structured by natural processes which involve dispersal limitation, whereas communities of urban plants and snails are influenced by human‐assisted dispersal of their propagules between cities, which results in weaker dispersal limitation. Our study indicates that dispersal vectors can be more important for community structure than size of organisms or of their propagules.
Rehabilitation between institutional and non‐institutional forensic psychiatric care: important influences on the transition process
Authors: GUSTAFSSON E. , HOLM M. , FLENSNER G.
Published: December 2011

Accessible summary

All patients cared for in Forensic Psychiatric Care (FPC) have some kind of psychiatric disorder and most of them have committed one or more criminal acts. In addition, several of the patients have alcohol and drug problems.

During the stay in institutional FPC, one part of the rehabilitation program is to prepare the patient for non‐institutional FPC. However, several patients fail with the rehabilitation.

This study focuses important aspects that influence the patients' ability to manage their rehabilitation through admission to non‐institutional FPC, viewed from different caregivers' perspective.

The transition is influenced by a well‐planned care plan, together with a suitable non‐institutional dwelling and a tailored occupation. A major barrier for successful admission was whether the patients managed their own finances or not. Other important areas were having a well‐functioning and trusting social network and a good relationship with a contact person.

All patients cared for in forensic psychiatric care (FPC) have some kind of psychiatric disorder and most of them have committed one or more criminal acts. One part of the patient's rehabilitation is the transition from institutional to non‐institutional FPC, but a number of patients do not succeed. The aim of this study was to elucidate different caregivers' experiences of aspects that influence the patients' ability to manage this rehabilitation. A qualitative approach was chosen. Data were collected by interviews in two focus groups, each group comprising of six caregivers representing both institutional and non‐institutional FPC. The transcribed interviews were analysed using a qualitative content analysis. Important aspects influencing the patients' transition described were a well‐planned care plan, together with a suitable non‐institutional dwelling and a tailored occupation. Other important areas were having a well‐functioning and trusting social network and a good relationship with a contact person/advocate. A major barrier to a successful transition was whether the patients managed their own finances or not. It was stated that it is important that the patients participate in the care and that different authorities create individual conditions and flexible solutions. All of these factors are important to focus on when caring for patients during their stay in the institutional FPC.
Renal function during treatment with adefovir plus peginterferon alfa‐2a vs either drug alone in hepatitis B/D co‐infection
Authors: Mederacke I. , Yurdaydin C. , Großhennig A. , Erhardt A. , Cakaloglu Y. , Yalcin K. , Gurel S. , Zeuzem S. , Zachou K. , Chatzikyrkou C. , Bozkaya H. , Dalekos G. N. , Manns M. P. , Wedemeyer H. ,   on behalf of Hep‐Net/International Delta Hepatitis Study Group
Published: December 2011

Summary.  Long‐term safety of treatment with hepatitis B virus (HBV) polymerase inhibitors is a concern. Adefovir dipivoxil (ADV) therapy has previously been associated with impairment of renal function. Limited data are available on the safety of combination therapy with nucleos(t)ide analogues and interferon alfa (IFNα). The aim of this analysis was to assess the renal function during combination therapy with peginterferon alfa‐2a (PegIFNα‐2a) plus ADV vs either drug alone in patients with hepatitis B/D co‐infection. We performed a retrospective analysis of renal function data of patients treated in the Hep‐Net/International Delta Hepatitis Intervention Trial 1(HIDIT‐1‐trial), a European multicenter study to investigate the efficacy of 48 weeks of therapy with PegIFNα‐2a+ADV vs either drug alone in 90 patients with chronic hepatitis B/D co‐infection. Glomerular filtration rates (GFR) were calculated by Cockcroft–Gault (CG), abbreviated Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) study and Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD‐EPI) equation. After 48 weeks of therapy GFR values were significantly lower in patients receiving adefovir‐containing treatment vs PegIFNα‐2a alone [mean difference 16.1 mL/min (CG) and 10.2 mL/min (MDRD), respectively, P < 0.05] while no differences were observed between patients receiving adefovir alone vs combination treatment. Twenty‐four weeks after treatment GFR values did not differ between treatment arms. A decrease in GFR ≥20% was observed more often in patients during adefovir‐containing treatment vs PegIFNα‐2a alone (P < 0.05) which was confirmed by Kaplan–Meier analysis. Adefovir‐containing but not PegIFNα‐2a treatment was associated with a decrease in GFR values in about one‐fifth of patients. Combination treatment of PegIFNα‐2a+ADV in chronic hepatitis B/D co‐infection did not lead to any further impairment of kidney function.
Outcomes in 11 patients with dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans treated with Mohs micrographic surgery
Authors: Galimberti Gastón , Montaño Anahí Pontón , Kowalczuk Alicia , Ferrario Damian , Galimberti Ricardo
Published: December 2011

Background  Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is an uncommon intermediate‐grade fibrohistiocytic sarcoma. It occurs most often in adults aged 20–50 years and is associated with local invasion and a high recurrence rate. Uncontrolled local disease or metastases may result in death. Treatment has involved wide excision, Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) and other approaches. The purpose of the current study was to review our experience with MMS in the treatment of patients with DFSP over the past six years.

Methods  We carried out a retrospective chart review for all patients treated with MMS at the Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires during a six‐year period to October 2009. Patient data included age and sex, site, and prior surgical treatment (if any) of the tumor and details of the Mohs procedure.

Results  Eleven patients were treated for DFSP. Four (36.4%) patients had been previously treated with a standard wide excision. Three (27.3%) of the 11 tumors were located on the back, four (36.4%) on the upper extremity, one (9.1%) on the lower extremity, and three (27.3%) on the trunk. Mean lesion size at presentation was 5.16 cm2, and mean defect size was 12.65 cm2, yielding a difference of 7.49 cm2 and a ratio (defect size/lesion size) of 2.45. No tumors recurred after MMS.

Conclusions  The recurrence potential of DFSP is directly related to the extent of resection. Mohs micrographic surgery with continuous histological margin control allows for maximum tissue preservation and low recurrence rates and is rapidly emerging as a first‐line treatment modality for this condition.
Spectrum of autoimmune bullous diseases in Iran: a 10‐year review
Authors: Daneshpazhooh Maryam , Chams‐Davatchi Cheyda , Payandemehr Pooya , Nassiri Saman , Valikhani Mahin , Safai‐Naraghi Zahra
Published: December 2011

Background  Autoimmune bullous diseases (ABDs) are potentially devastating bullous dermatoses of the skin and mucosae characterized by the presence of tissue‐bound and circulating antibodies directed against disease‐specific target antigens. These diseases comprise two major subgroups of subepidermal autoimmune bullous disorders and pemphigus, based on the level of blister formation. Although they occur worldwide, the relative frequencies of different ABDs show wide geographical variation. Most epidemiological studies on ABDs have focused on single diseases or a group of diseases; published surveys studying the whole spectrum of diseases are scarce.

Objectives  This study aimed to assess the relative frequencies of different ABDs in patients presenting to the Bullous Diseases Research Center, Tehran, Iran.

Methods  Medical files for all newly diagnosed patients with ABD presenting to the Center between March 1997 and February 2006 were examined. Patients with dermatitis herpetiformis were not included.

Results  A total of 1402 patients were diagnosed with ABD during the study period. Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) was the most common ABD (81.2%), followed by bullous pemphigoid (BP) (11.6%), pemphigus foliaceus (PF) (4.4%), pemphigoid gestationis (0.7%), mucous membrane pemphigoid (0.7%), epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (0.5%), linear immunoglobulin A (IgA) disease (0.4%), paraneoplastic pemphigus (0.2%), IgA pemphigus (0.2%), and pemphigus erythematosus (0.1%). The mean age at diagnosis and male : female ratio were 43.4 years and 1 : 1.39, 42.2 years and 1 : 1.34, and 59.4 years and 1 : 1.36 for PV, BP, and PF, respectively.

Conclusions  Pemphigus vulgaris was the most frequent ABD according to our study; cases of PV outnumbered those of BP by a ratio of almost 8 : 1. This finding contrasts with those of studies conducted in Western European countries, in which BP predominates. There was a female predominance in most subtypes of ABD. Mean age at onset of PV and BP was lower than in Europe. In view of its large population of PV patients, Iran should be considered a suitable field for future clinical trials.
A solitary erosive patch on the left nipple
Authors: Yu Mi , Lee Hyung Rae , young Han Tae , Lee June Hyunkyung , Son Sook‐Ja
Published: December 2011

What is your diagnosis?
Temperature responses of dark respiration in relation to leaf sugar concentration
Authors: Katja Hüve , Irina Bichele , Hiie Ivanova , Olav Keerberg , Tiit Pärnik , Bahtijor Rasulov , Mari Tobias , Ülo Niinemets
Published: December 2011

Changes in leaf sugar concentrations are a possible mechanism of short‐term adaptation to temperature changes, with natural fluctuations in sugar concentrations in the field expected to modify the heat sensitivity of respiration. We studied temperature‐response curves of leaf dark respiration in the temperate tree Populus tremula (L.) in relation to leaf sugar concentration (1) under natural conditions or (2) leaves with artificially enhanced sugar concentration. Temperature‐response curves were obtained by increasing the leaf temperature at a rate of 1°C min−1. We demonstrate that respiration, similarly to chlorophyll fluorescence, has a break‐point at high temperature, where respiration starts to increase with a faster rate. The average break‐point temperature (TRD) was 48.6 ± 0.7°C at natural sugar concentration. Pulse‐chase experiments with 14CO2 demonstrated that substrates of respiration were derived mainly from the products of starch degradation. Starch degradation exhibited a similar temperature‐response curve as respiration with a break‐point at high temperatures. Acceleration of starch breakdown may be one of the reasons for the observed high‐temperature rise in respiration. We also demonstrate that enhanced leaf sugar concentrations or enhanced osmotic potential may protect leaf cells from heat stress, i.e. higher sugar concentrations significantly modify the temperature‐response curve of respiration, abolishing the fast increase of respiration. Sugars or enhanced osmotic potential may non‐specifically protect respiratory membranes or may block the high‐temperature increase in starch degradation and consumption in respiratory processes, thus eliminating the break‐points in temperature curves of respiration in sugar‐fed leaves.
Abnormal pre‐operative tests, pathologic findings of medical history, and their predictive value for perioperative complications
Authors: FRITSCH G. , FLAMM M. , HEPNER D. L. , PANISCH S. , SEER J. , SOENNICHSEN A.
Published: December 2011

Background

Laboratory tests, electrocardiogram (ECG) and chest X‐rays still serve as part of the routine assessment before elective surgery in many institutions, even though there is little evidence of their predictive value relating to perioperative complications. This study investigates the correlation of abnormal findings in pre‐operative tests and pathologic findings in the medical history with perioperative complications.

Methods

Patients scheduled for elective surgery in a secondary care hospital were included in this prospective cohort study. Abnormal pre‐operative tests, significant findings from the medical history and perioperative complications were recorded. Regression analysis was performed in order to identify the strongest predictors for perioperative complications.

Results

A total of 1363 (56.1% female) patients were consecutively included in this study. The percentage of abnormalities in pre‐operative tests ranged from 1.6% (electrolytes) and 29.7% (echocardiography). Eighty‐six (6.3%) patients had at least one perioperative complication. The most frequent complications were hypo‐ or hypertension in 55 cases (4.0%), followed by 20 patients (1.5%) who suffered from hemodynamically relevant cardiac dysrhythmias such as supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular tachycardia, bradycardia and ventricular extrasystoles. The binary logistic regression analysis to identify predictors of perioperative complications showed significant results for age, invasiveness of the procedure, history of renal disease or anemia and abnormal ECG.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that age, type of surgery and medical history are appropriate predictors of perioperative complications, whereas abnormalities in laboratory tests seem to have restricted ability in predicting adverse perioperative outcome.
Desflurane: A clinical update of a third‐generation inhaled anaesthetic
Authors: JAKOBSSON J.
Published: December 2011

Available volatile anaesthetics are safe and efficacious; however, their varying pharmacology provides small but potentially clinically important differences. Desflurane is one of the third‐generation inhaled anaesthetics. It is the halogenated inhaled anaesthetic with the lowest blood and tissue solubilities, which promotes its rapid equilibration and its rapid elimination following cessation of administration at the end of anaesthesia. The low fat solubility of desflurane provides pharmacological benefits, especially in overweight patients and in longer procedures by reducing slow compartment accumulation. A decade of clinical use has provided evidence for desflurane's safe and efficacious use as a general anaesthetic. Its benefits include rapid and predictable emergence, and early recovery. In addition, the use of desflurane promotes early and predictable extubation, and the ability to rapidly transfer patients from the operating theatre to the recovery area, which has a positive impact on patient turnover. Desflurane also increases the likelihood of patients, including obese patients, recovering their protective airway reflexes and awakening to a degree sufficient to minimise the stay in the high dependency recovery area. The potential impact of the rapid early recovery from desflurane anaesthesia on intermediate and late recovery and resumption of activities of daily living requires further study.
Overexpression of arginase in Arabidopsis thaliana influences defence responses against Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Brauc S. , De Vooght E. , Claeys M. , Geuns J. M. C. , Höfte M. , Angenon G.
Published: December 2011

Arabidopsis possesses two arginase‐encoding genes, ARGAH1 and ARGAH2, catalysing the catabolism of arginine into ornithine and urea. Arginine and ornithine are both precursors for polyamine biosynthetic pathways. We observed an accumulation of ARGAH2 mRNA in Arabidopsis upon inoculation with the necrotrophic pathogen Botrytis cinerea. Transgenic lines displaying either overexpression of ARGAH2 or simultaneous silencing of both Arabidopsis arginase‐encoding genes were created and their resistance to B. cinerea infection evaluated. Overexpression of arginase resulted in changes in amino acid accumulation, while polyamine levels remained largely unaffected. Silencing lines were affected in both amino acid and putrescine accumulation. Arabidopsis plants overexpressing the arginase gene were less susceptible to B. cinerea, whereas silencing lines remained as susceptible as the wild type. We discuss how arginase might interact with plant defence mechanisms. These results provide new insights into amino acid metabolic changes under stress.
Pollinator attraction of the wasp‐flower Scrophularia umbrosa (Scrophulariaceae)
Authors: Brodmann J. , Emer D. , Ayasse M.
Published: December 2011

Certain species of Scrophularia (Scrophulariaceae), such as S. nodosa and S. umbrosa, are mainly pollinated by social wasps and are consequently described as wasp‐flowers. Because plants attract their pollinators with the help of various floral cues, such as floral odour and/or optical cues, we have investigated the role of olfactory and visual floral signals responsible for wasp attraction in S. umbrosa. Using a combination of chemical (GC, GC‐MS) and electrophysiological analyses (GC‐EAD), we identified ten compounds in the complex floral odour bouquet that are detectable by the wasps’ antennae. As in the wasp‐flower Epipactis helleborine, we found so‐called ‘green leaf volatiles’ (GLVs) in the floral odour; these GLVs are highly attractive to the wasps. GLVs, mostly six‐carbon aldehydes, alcohols and acetates, and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs), are emitted by many plants infested with herbivores, e.g. caterpillars. In contrast to other investigated wasp‐flowers, behavioural experiments have demonstrated that, in addition to the floral odour of S. umbrosa, visual cues are involved in pollinator attraction.
Genetic analyses of new movement traits using detailed evaluations of warmblood foals and mares
Authors: Becker A.‐C. , Stock K.F. , Distl O.
Published: December 2011

Detailed movement evaluations of warmblood foals and mares were performed in connection with regular breeding events of the Oldenburg horse breeding societies in 2009 and 2010. Unfavourable movement characteristics considered indicative for impaired balance were noted by a special judge (SJ) and the regular judges of the breeding events (RJ) and served as the basis for definition of new movement traits. Detailed movement information on 3374 foals and 2844 mares showed that more severe findings like irregular motion pattern in hind legs or irregularity in general motion pattern occurred only sporadically (prevalences of 1–2%). Irregular tail tone or posture was documented for 4% of the foals and 5% of the mares, resulting in prevalences of the comprehensive trait indications of imbalance (IMB) of 6.2% (foals) and 5.5% (mares). Binary coding was used for all traits, and genetic parameters were estimated bivariately in linear animal models with residual maximum likelihood. Comparative analyses between judges revealed that differences between trait definitions of SJ and RJ were larger in the mares than in the foals, but justified combined use of SJ and RJ information in both age groups. Heritability estimates for the movement traits ranged on the original scale from 0.02 to 0.26 in the foals and from 0.03 to 0.12 in the mares, with heritabilities for IMB on the underlying liability scale of 0.46 (foals) and 0.22 (mares). Comparative analyses between age groups indicated that common genetic factors may be responsible for findings of impaired balance in foals and mares. The results implied that horse breeding may benefit from using the early available information on the movement of foals obtained by detailed movement evaluations, although favourable combination of foal and mare data in future genetic evaluations may require refined recording of unfavourable movement characteristics in the adult horses.
The anterior superior parietal lobule and its interactions with language and motor areas during writing
Authors: Segal Emily , Petrides Michael
Published: December 2011

Past neuroimaging studies of writing demonstrate activation foci in several regions of the posterior parietal cortex (PPC). The present study aimed to dissociate the role of the superior parietal lobule (SPL) from the other PPC regions using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and functional connectivity. First, parametric event‐related fMRI permitted the categorical comparison of experimental writing conditions with control conditions that were carefully chosen to match the experimental conditions in terms of variables extraneous to the motor act of writing, such as visual stimulus characteristics, and generating and retrieving verbal information. A selective focus of increased activation in the PPC restricted to the rostral part of the SPL (area PE) in the left hemisphere was demonstrated. Subsequently, functional connectivity analysis showed that area PE flexibly interacts with different language areas depending on the linguistic demands of the writing task. Activity in area PE correlates with the left angular gyrus, a region implicated in reading, when the writing is in response to words that are read; in sharp contrast, when the writing is in response to pictured objects, then area PE correlates with the supramarginal gyrus, a region involved in the articulatory and phonological loop, as well as with prefrontal regions that are involved in the retrieval and selection of semantic information. The results suggest that area PE serves as a critical interface between posterior cortical regions in the left hemisphere involved in language processing and the central motor and sensory regions that are directly involved in the control of movement.
Aphids in a changing world: testing the plant stress, plant vigour and pulsed stress hypotheses
Authors: Tariq Muhammad , Wright Denis J. , Rossiter John T. , Staley Joanna T.
Published: December 2011

The plant stress, plant vigour and pulsed stress hypotheses describe the relationships between drought stress, plant quality and herbivore performance. We used an aphid‐Brassica system to test these hypotheses under different drought treatments.

The quantity of water added per plant/week was 75%, 50% and 25% of the control (unstressed) water regime for low, medium and high drought stress, respectively, and 50% applied fortnightly for pulsed drought stress. The performance of a ‘senescence’ (generalist) and a ‘flush’ feeder (specialist) aphid species and host plant quality were assessed.

Drought treatments had a similar effect on the fecundity and intrinsic rate of increase of both aphid species. Aphid performance on unstressed and highly drought‐stressed plants was significantly lower compared with medium drought stress. On average, 20% greater fecundity and 40% greater intrinsic rates of increase were recorded for both aphid species at medium drought stress compared with unstressed plants.

Plant biomass and relative water contents were significantly greater for unstressed plants compared with high and pulsed drought treatments. Foliar nitrogen concentration was significantly greater in the high drought stress and pulsed treatments, and the dominant glucosinolate (glucobrassicin) concentration was significantly greater in drought stress treatments.

The present study supports the plant stress hypothesis, although the plant vigour and pulsed stress hypotheses are not supported by our data. The implications of these findings for plant–herbivore interactions under changing environmental conditions are discussed.
Simple Objects of Comparison for Complex Grammars: An Alternative Strand in Wittgenstein's Later Remarks on Religion
Authors: Citron Gabriel
Published: December 2011

The predominant interpretation of Wittgenstein's later remarks on religion takes him to hold that all religious utterances are non‐scientific, and to hold that the way to show that religious utterances are non‐scientific is to identify and characterise the grammatical rules governing their use. This paper claims that though this does capture one strand of Wittgenstein's later thought on religion, there is an alternative strand of that thought which is quite different and more nuanced. In this alternative strand Wittgenstein stresses that religious utterances and beliefs can come in both scientific and non‐scientific varieties. More than that, he claims that the grammar of religious utterances, and the logic of religious beliefs, is often complex – in that individual utterances and beliefs will often be mixed between, indeterminate between, or fluid between being scientific and being non‐scientific. This complexity means that it will often be unhelpful to try to pin down one particular grammar or logic for a given utterance or belief. Wittgenstein therefore suggests a new method of grammatical and logical investigation, which is less likely to distort complex grammars or logics by being overly simplistic or rigid. This method is to use simple examples of utterances and beliefs as objects of comparison, so as to illuminate the different aspects of the more complex actual utterances and beliefs under examination. This alternative strand in Wittgenstein's later remarks on religion is a manifestation of a broader strand of Wittgenstein's later thought as a whole, which was first described by Friedrich Waismann, and later developed by Gordon Baker and Oskari Kuusela. The paper concludes by providing examples of religious beliefs which are logically mixed, indeterminate, and fluid, and showing how simple objects of comparison can be used to illuminate them.
The Earthy Realism of Plato's Metaphysics, or: What Shall We Do with Iris Murdoch?
Authors: Robjant David
Published: December 2011

I develop Iris Murdoch's argument that “there is no Platonic ‘elsewhere,’ similar to the Christian ‘elsewhere.’ ” Thus: Iris Murdoch is against the Separation of the Forms not as a correction of Plato but in order to keep faith with him; Plato's Parmenides is not a source book of accurately targeted self‐refutation but a catalogue of student errors; the testimony of Aristotle and Gilbert Ryle about Plato's motivations in the Theory of Forms is not an indubitable foundation from which to denounce Iris Murdoch's treatment of Plato as inaccurate but a rival reading of dubious charity. If Iris Murdoch's version of the Theory of Forms strikes Newton Garver as an incoherent mix of influences from Wittgenstein and Plato, this is not because Iris Murdoch is herself confused, but because in important respects the orthodoxy has Plato wrong.
The Implicit Constitutional Right to Live in a Healthy Environment
Authors: Boyd David R.
Published: December 2011

The right to a healthy environment has rapidly gained constitutional protection around the world. In at least twenty countries, recognition of the right to a healthy environment first occurred through court decisions determining that it is implicit in other constitutional provisions, primarily the right to life. The right is now recognized explicitly in the constitutions of 90 countries spanning Europe, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa, and is recognized as an implicit and enforceable constitutional right in at least twelve additional countries. The decisions of international courts and tribunals provide further support for concluding that the right to life necessarily includes the right to a healthy environment.
If a Tree Falls in a Kyoto Forest and Nobody is There to Hear it, will it be Accounted for? An Insider's View of the Negotiations Surrounding Land Use, Land‐use Change and Forestry for the Second Commitment Period of the Kyoto Protocol
Authors: Fry Ian
Published: December 2011

Parties are currently considering new accounting rules for land use, land‐use change and forestry (LULUCF) for a second commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol. This article explores these new accounting rules and definitions, particularly in relation to forest management. It looks at various accounting methodologies, including the use of reference levels, a ‘bar approach’, net‐net accounting and full land‐based accounting. It also explores the use of harvested wood products, the implications of force majeure and natural disturbances. It discusses the negotiations relating to new activities for Annex I Parties to the Protocol, including wetland management. The future of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) with respect to LULUCF is also considered and the politics and processes associated with the negotiations are revealed. Finally, there is a discussion on a future Protocol and what implications this may have for accounting for emissions and removals from LULUCF activities.
Indigenous Peoples' Land Rights and REDD: A Case Study
Authors: Lemaitre Sophie
Published: December 2011

With the development of REDD (‘Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation’) policies, determining who can claim rights over the forest and who will receive the REDD benefits has many implications. While REDD has the potential to benefit them, indigenous peoples are concerned that REDD activities may fail to adequately respect their rights. Several international instruments recognize indigenous peoples' rights to land and their rights are also enforced by courts. However, there is often a gap between the protection granted by international law and how it is implemented in practice. REDD may increase this difference. The following analysis of Guyana's REDD plan illustrates the risks that indigenous peoples may incur.
Moving to the Countryside ... and Staying: Lives beyond Representations
Authors: Halfacree Keith H. , Rivera María Jesús
Published: December 2011

Migration towards rural areas – pro‐rural migration – is a lively, diverse, well illustrated research area. However, interest tends to stop with spatial relocation, with migrants' subsequent lives in rural places much less examined. Such imbalance reflects a more general bias in favour of studying distinctive actions, such as migration, at the expense of non‐actions, such as staying put. This article challenges this situation. It argues for regarding migration in a more contextual, biographical and distributed manner, even potentially attaining some characteristics of what is known in non‐representational theory as an ‘event’. While pro‐rural migration is usually initially a contemplated ‘representational’ action, the significance to the migrant of the resulting relocation does not end here, requiring attention to be paid to everyday entanglements with (rural) place. Becoming event‐like, some experiences may be unanticipated and unexpected rather than foreshadowed. This sensitivity is applied in the article through introduction of an interpretative map for exploring why and how pro‐rural migrants subsequently stay in their destinations. Proceeding through the map, concerns with representations of the location are increasingly left behind in favour of becoming more attentive to life course issues and more‐than‐representational rural experiences shaping the migrant's ‘line of growth’.
Established‐Outsider Relations and Fear of Crime in Mining Towns
Authors: Scott John , Carrington Kerry , McIntosh Alison
Published: December 2011

Using Elias and Scotson's (1994) account of established‐outsider relations, this article examines how the organizational capacity of specific social groups is significant in determining the quality of crime‐talk in isolated and rural settings. In particular, social ‘oldness’ and notions of what constitutes ‘community’ are significant in determining what activities and individuals are salient within crime‐talk. Individual and group interviews, conducted in a West Australian mining town, revealedhowcrime‐talk is an artefact of specific social figurations and the relative ability of groups to act as cohesive and integrated networks. We argue that anxieties regarding crime are a product of specific social figurations and the shifting power ratios of groups within such figurations.
Antifibrotic effect after low‐dose imatinib mesylate treatment in patients with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis: an open‐label non‐randomized, uncontrolled clinical trial
Authors: Elmholdt T.R. , Buus N.H. , Ramsing M. , Olesen A.B.
Published: December 2011

Background  Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is a disease affecting the connective tissue of the skin and internal organs in patients with renal failure. No effective treatments are available.

Objectives  To investigate if the tyrosine kinase inhibitor, imatinib mesylate was effective in patients with moderate to severe nephrogenic systemic fibrosis.

Methods  Among 25 patients with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis evaluated for the study from 1 October 2009 to 1 December 2010, four were included. They were treated with oral imatinib mesylate at a start dose of 400 mg/day. Main outcome measure: Reduction of skin fibrosis and increase in joint mobility evaluated by the modified Rodnan skin score and a goniometer.

Results  In two patients, the imatinib mesylate dose was reduced to 200 mg/day and in one patient to 100 mg/day. Two patients were treated for 24 weeks, one patient for 16 weeks and one patient for 4 weeks. Three patients experienced tethering of their skin which lessened with reduction in modified Rodnan skin score from 24 to 20, 24 to 17 and 21 to 14 but with very limited changes in joint mobility. The fourth patient discontinued the treatment due to a complicating infection.

Conclusion  Imatinib mesylate may be an effective drug in the treatment of skin fibrosis in moderate to severe NSF cases, even at reduced doses. We found a positive clinical effect on the skin, but no convincing improvement of the joint mobility. Only few patients could be recruited limiting the interpretation and conclusions of the results.
Glacial trees from the La Brea tar pits show physiological constraints of low CO2
Authors: Gerhart Laci M. , Harris John M. , Nippert Jesse B. , Sandquist Darren R. , Ward Joy K.
Published: December 2011

See also the Commentary by Tissue and Lewis
Functional morphology, ontogeny and evolution of mantis shrimp‐like predators in the Cambrian
Authors: HAUG JOACHIM T. , WALOSZEK DIETER , MAAS ANDREAS , LIU YU , HAUG CAROLIN
Published: December 2011

Abstract:  We redescribe the morphology of Yohoia tenuis (Chelicerata sensu lato) from the Cambrian Burgess Shale Lagerstätte. The morphology of the most anterior, prominent, so‐called great appendage changes throughout ontogeny. While its principal morphology remains unaltered, the length ratios of certain parts of the great appendage change significantly. Furthermore, it possesses a special jack‐knifing mechanism, i.e. an elbow joint: the articulation between the distal one of the two peduncle elements and the most proximal of the four spine‐bearing claw elements. This morphology might have enabled the animal to hunt like a modern spearer‐type mantis shrimp, an analogy enhanced by the similarly large and protruding eyes. For comparison, details of specimens of selected other great‐appendage arthropods from the Lower Cambrian Chengjiang Lagerstätte have been investigated using fluorescence microscopy. This revealed that the morphology of the great appendage of Y. tenuis is much like that of the Chengjiang species Fortiforceps foliosa and Jianfengia multisegmentalis. The morphology of the great appendage of the latter is even more similar to the morphology developed in early developmental stages of Y. tenuis, while the morphology of the great appendage of F. foliosa is more similar to that of later developmental stages of Y. tenuis. The arrangement of the elbow joint supports the view that the great appendage evolved into the chelicera of Chelicerata sensu stricto, as similar joints are found in various ingroup taxa such as Xiphosura, Opiliones or Palpigradi. With this, it also supports the interpretation of the great appendage to be homologous with the first appendage of other arthropods.
Coagulation in hepatobiliary disease
Authors: Kavanagh Carrie , Shaw Scott , Webster Cynthia R.L.
Published: December 2011

Objective

To review the pathogenesis and clinical consequences of coagulation abnormalities accompanying hepatobiliary disorders and to highlight the need for further studies to characterize these derangements and their treatment options in small animal patients.

Data Sources

Veterinary and human medical literature: original research articles, scientific reviews, consensus statements, and recent texts.

The liver plays an important role in the production and clearance of many components of coagulation. A wide range of hemostatic derangements can occur in patients with hepatobiliary disease including alterations in platelet number and function, coagulation factor levels, anticoagulants, vascular endothelial function, and fibrinolysis. As these hemostatic alterations include both pro‐ and anticoagulation pathways, the net result is often a rebalanced hemostatic system that can be easily disrupted by concurrent conditions resulting in either clinical bleeding or thrombosis. Conventional coagulation tests are inadequate at identifying the spectrum of coagulation alterations occurring in patients with hepatobiliary disease, but their evaluation is necessary to assess bleeding risk and provide prognostic information. A paucity of information exists regarding the treatment of the coagulation derangements in small animals with hepatobiliary disease. Extrapolation from human studies provides some information about potential treatment options, but further studies are warranted in this area to elucidate the best management for coagulation abnormalities in dogs and cats with hepatobiliary disease.

Conclusion

Hepatobiliary disease can have profound effects on coagulation function leading to hypercoagulable or hypocoagulable states. Overall coagulation status with hepatobiliary disease depends on both the type and severity of disease and the presence of associated complications.
Prostanoid EP1 receptors mediate up‐regulation of the orphan nuclear receptor Nurr1 by cAMP‐independent activation of protein kinase A, CREB and NF‐κB
Authors: Ji R , Sanchez CM , Chou CL , Chen XB , Woodward DF , Regan JW
Published: December 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) stimulation of the G protein‐coupled prostanoid EP1 receptor was found to up‐regulate the expression of Nur‐related factor 1 (Nurr1) (NR4A2), a transcription factor in the NR4A subfamily of nuclear receptors. The present studies characterize the molecular mechanism of this up‐regulation.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The expression of Nurr1 was examined by immunoblot analysis, the polymerase chain reaction and reporter gene assays in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells stably expressing the recombinant EP1 receptor and in SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells expressing endogenous EP1 receptors. Signalling pathway inhibitors were used to examine the roles of Rho, PKA, the cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) and NF‐κB on the PGE2 stimulated up‐regulation of Nurr1. CREB and NF‐κB signalling were also examined by immunoblot analysis and reporter gene assays.

KEY RESULTS

The EP1 receptor mediated up‐regulation of Nurr1 was blocked with inhibitors of Rho, PKA, NF‐κB and CREB; but PGE2 failed to significantly stimulate intracellular cAMP formation. PGE2 stimulation of the EP1 receptor induced the phosphorylation and activation of CREB and NF‐κB, which could be blocked by inhibition of PKA.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

PGE2 stimulation of the human EP1 receptor up‐regulates the expression of Nurr1 by a mechanism involving the sequential activation of the Rho, PKA, CREB and NF‐κB signalling pathways. EP1 receptors are implicated in tumorigenesis and the up‐regulation of Nurr1 may underlie the anti‐apoptotic effects of PGE2.
Investigation of uav systems and flight modes for photogrammetric applications
Authors: Eisenbeiss Henri , Sauerbier Martin
Published: December 2011

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) photogrammetry has been used in a growing number of diverse applications across different scientific disciplines. Early applications of UAVs included cultural heritage and archaeology, mainly for the documentation and modelling of monuments, buildings and landscapes. In this paper, the focus is on the application of UAVs for documenting archaeological excavations. As excavating is a dynamic process and the objects to be acquired can change significantly within a few hours, UAVs can provide a suitable alternative to traditional measurement methods such as measuring tapes and tachymeters. Nevertheless, the image processing steps have to be automated, as a large number of resulting materials, usually sketches, maps, ortho‐images and 3D models, need to be available quickly. In order to accelerate the processing workflow, an interface between the UAV ground control software and various photogrammetric software packages was developed at ETH Zurich, which allows for an efficient management and transfer of orientation, trajectory and sensor data for rapid project set up.
Aeolian Beach Sand Transport Monitored by Terrestrial Laser Scanning
Authors: Lindenbergh Roderik C. , Soudarissanane Sylvie S. , De Vries Sierd , Gorte Ben G. H. , De Schipper Matthieu A.
Published: December 2011

Morphodynamic changes at sandy coasts, as are dominant in the Netherlands, are typically monitored at yearly intervals by means of airborne laser scanning. Meanwhile it is recognised that beach morphodynamics is not a regular process and is strongly correlated to meteorological conditions. A series of 25 terrestrial laser scans of a beach experiment is analysed, obtained during a time period of 88 hours, characterised by changing weather conditions including strong wind and rain. It is shown that after a conversion to a cylindrical grid, different deformation regimes can be identified and rates of elevation changes below 1 mm per hour can be detected. Simultaneously, an analysis of distances between targets through time demonstrates the sensitivity of the used measurement set‐up to the harsh weather conditions.
Recent cessation of smoking and its effect on pregnancy outcomes
Authors: BICKERSTAFF Margaret , BECKMANN Michael , GIBBONS Kristen , FLENADY Vicki
Published: December 2011

Background:  Smoking in pregnancy is associated with a range of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Aim:  To compare adverse pregnancy outcomes for women according to smoking status at the first antenatal visit in an Australian setting.

Methods:  A retrospective study using routinely collected data of all births between 1997 and 2006 at the Mater Mothers’ Hospital Brisbane (MMH). Analysis was undertaken using multivariate logistic regression. The following comparisons were undertaken: (i) smokers versus non‐smokers; (ii) recent quitters (quit within the last 12 months) versus smokers; and (iii) recent quitters versus non‐smokers. Primary outcome measures were small for gestational age (SGA) <10th customised centile and preterm birth (PTB) <37 weeks.

Results:  Between 1997 and 2006, 40 193 women birthed at the MMH. Of these 30 524 (75.9%), for which adequate data were available, were included in the study. The smoking rate at booking was 15.4%. Compared to non‐smokers (n = 25 814), women who were smoking at the first visit (n = 4710) were at increased risk of SGA (aOR = 2.26, 95%CI = 2.08–2.47) and PTB (aOR = 1.42, 95%CI = 1.27–1.59). In the subset (7801 births) used for comparisons two and three, compared to smokers (n = 1434), recent quitters (n = 945) were at a decreased risk of SGA (aOR = 0.43, 95%CI = 0.33–0.57) but not PTB (aOR = 0.92. 95%CI = 0.69–1.23). Outcomes for recent quitters and non‐smokers (n = 5422) appeared similar.

Conclusion:  This study confirms the increased risk of continued smoking in pregnancy. Women who quit prior to or during early pregnancy appear to have similar risk to that of non‐smokers.
Pregnancy‐induced Cushing’s syndrome in recurrent pregnancies: Case report and literature review
Authors: ACHONG Naomi , D’EMDEN Michael , FAGERMO Narelle , MORTIMER Robin
Published: December 2011

Pregnancy in women with Cushing’s syndrome (CS) is uncommon. It is associated with significant maternal and fetal complications. Pregnancy‐induced Cushing’s syndrome is exceptionally rare with fewer than ten cases reported in the world literature and none in Australia or New Zealand. We describe a woman with possible recurrent pregnancy‐induced CS complicating five pregnancies over a 7‐year period. We discuss the changes in the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis during normal pregnancy together with the diagnosis, aetiology and management of CS in pregnancy.