bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visualizing the Genetic Landscape of Arabidopsis Seed Performance
Authors: Joosen Ronny Viktor Louis , Arends Danny , Willems Leo Albert Jan , Ligterink Wilco , Jansen Ritsert C. , Hilhorst Henk W.M.
Published: December 2011

Perfect timing of germination is required to encounter optimal conditions for plant survival and is the result of a complex interaction between molecular processes, seed characteristics, and environmental cues. To detangle these processes, we made use of natural genetic variation present in an Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) Bayreuth × Shahdara recombinant inbred line population. For a detailed analysis of the germination response, we characterized rate, uniformity, and maximum germination and discuss the added value of such precise measurements. The effects of after-ripening, stratification, and controlled deterioration as well as the effects of salt, mannitol, heat, cold, and abscisic acid (ABA) with and without cold stratification were analyzed for these germination characteristics. Seed morphology (size and length) of both dry and imbibed seeds was quantified by using image analysis. For the overwhelming amount of data produced in this study, we developed new approaches to perform and visualize high-throughput quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis. We show correlation of trait data, (shared) QTL positions, and epistatic interactions. The detection of similar loci for different stresses indicates that, often, the molecular processes regulating environmental responses converge into similar pathways. Seven major QTL hotspots were confirmed using a heterogeneous inbred family approach. QTLs colocating with previously reported QTLs and well-characterized mutants are discussed. A new connection between dormancy, ABA, and a cripple mucilage formation due to a naturally occurring mutation in the MUCILAGE-MODIFIED2 gene is proposed, and this is an interesting lead for further research on the regulatory role of ABA in mucilage production and its multiple effects on germination parameters.
Usefulness of margin detection by digital dermoscopy in the traditional surgical excision of basal cell carcinomas of the head and neck including infiltrative/morpheaform type
Authors: CARDUCCI Mauro , BOZZETTI Marcella , DE MARCO Giuseppe , FOSCOLO Anna M. , BETTI Roberto
Published: December 2011

Incomplete or suboptimal surgical excision of basal cell carcinoma of the head and neck is a relatively frequent occurrence. Methods of preoperative assessment of tumoral margins are therefore of paramount importance. The aim of this study was to compare the preoperative evaluation of margins with digital dermoscopy and clinical definition. One hundred and 12 patients with histologically confirmed basal cell carcinoma were selected for surgical excision. Subsequently, the margin of excision was determined by either clinical (45 patients) or dermoscopic evaluation (67 patients). After pre‐surgical clinical evaluation, 22% of histological specimens of excised basal cell carcinoma showed suboptimal margins of excision. Pre‐surgical dermoscopic evaluation had only 7% suboptimal excision. Preoperative digital dermoscopy is a better method to determine tumoral margins than clinical evaluation alone. Indeed, preoperative digital dermoscopy is an effective, simple, non‐invasive procedure for the pre‐surgical determination of margins.
Meta‐analysis of hepatitis C seroconversion in relation to shared syringes and drug preparation equipment
Authors: Pouget Enrique R. , Hagan Holly , Des Jarlais Don C.
Published: December 2011

Aims  We conducted a systematic review of studies reporting seroincidence of hepatitis C infection (HCV) in relation to shared syringes and drug preparation equipment among injection drug users (IDUs). We identified published and unpublished studies that met inclusion criteria.

Design  We estimated the relative contributions of shared syringes and drug preparation equipment to HCV transmission using random‐effects meta‐analysis, and analyzed potential sources of heterogeneity of effects among studies.

Findings  Syringe sharing was associated with HCV seroconversion [pooled risk ratio (PRR) = 1.94, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.53, 2.46], as was sharing drug preparation containers (PRR = 2.42, 95% CI 1.89, 3.10), filters (PRR = 2.61, 95% CI 1.91, 3.56), rinse water (PRR = 1.98, 95% CI 1.54, 2.56), combinations of this equipment (PRR = 2.24, 95% CI 1.28, 3.93) and ‘backloading’, a syringe‐mediated form of sharing prepared drugs (PRR = 1.86, 95% CI 1.41, 2.44). Meta‐regression results showed that the association between syringe sharing and seroconversion was modified by HCV seroprevalence in the IDU populations.

Conclusions  The risk of hepatitis C infection through shared syringes is dependent upon hepatitis C infection seroprevalence in the population. The risk of hepatitis C infection through shared drug preparation equipment is similar to that of shared syringes. Because the infection status of sharing partners is often unknown, it is important for injection drug users to consistently avoid sharing unsterile equipment used to prepare, divide or inject drugs and avoid backloading with an unsterile syringe.
Increased incidence of QT interval prolongation in a population receiving lower doses of methadone maintenance therapy
Authors: Roy Andrew K. , McCarthy Catherine , Kiernan Gareth , McGorrian Catherine , Keenan Eamon , Mahon Niall G. , Sweeney Brion
Published: December 2011

Aims  The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of corrected QT interval (QTc) prolongation in a methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) population, and to examine potential associations between this QTc interval and methadone dose as well as concurrent use of opiates, cocaine and benzodiazepines.

Design  Cross‐sectional study of patients attending a specialist drug treatment clinic from July 2008 to January 2009.

Setting  Single‐centre inner‐city specialist drug treatment clinic, Ireland.

Participants  A total of 180 patients on stable MMT attending for daily methadone doses, over a 6‐month period, where a total of 376 patients were attending during the study period.

Measurements  All patients agreeing to participate in the study underwent 12‐lead electrocardiograms and QTc analysis, as well as analysis of urine toxicology screen results for opiates, benzodiazepines and cocaine. ECGs were carried out prior to methadone dose being received, regardless of time of day (trough ECG).

Findings  The average age was 32.6 ± 7.1 years, with mean [standard deviation (SD)] methadone dose 80.4 ± 27.5 mg. The mean (SD) QTc was 420.9 ± 21.1 ms, range 368–495 ms. Patients who had a positive toxicology screen for opiates were receiving significantly lower doses of methadone (77.8 ± 23.5 mg versus 85.0 ± 21.4 mg, P = 0.04). No significant association was noted between QTc interval prolongation and presence of cocaine metabolites in the urine (P = 0.13) or methadone dose (P = 0.33). 8.8% of patients had evidence of prolonged QTc interval (8.3% male QTc ≥ 450 ms and 0.5% female QTc ≥ 470 ms), with 11.1% (n = 20) having QTc intervals > 450 ms.

Conclusions  Drug‐induced corrected QT interval prolongation is evident (ranging from 8.8–11.1%, depending on definition applied) in patients receiving relatively low daily doses of methadone therapy, with no evidence of a dose–response relationship. The presence of cocaine metabolites in urine does not appear to be associated with increased corrected QT interval. Increased awareness of cardiac safety guidelines, including relevant clinical and family history, baseline and trough dose ECG monitoring, should be incorporated into methadone maintenance therapy protocols.
Neuroprotective effects of a new skin care formulation following ultraviolet exposure
Authors: Fonseca B. L. , dos Santos B. C. , Martins P. , Bonorino C. , Corte T. W. F. , da Silva V. D. , Bauer M. E.
Published: December 2011

Background:  Chronic ultraviolet (UV) exposure is a major environmental factor involved in extrinsic skin ageing (photo‐ageing). Skin nerve fibres are significantly reduced in number following UV irradiation and new skincare compounds with neuroprotective effects are thus highly warranted.

Objectives:  We developed a new skincare formulation from a plant extract and evaluated its neuroprotective effects of ex vivo UV irradiation.

Materials and methods:  The new skincare emulsion was formulated from Echinacea purpurea extract and was enriched with antioxidants (patent no. PROV020110087075). Skin samples were obtained from 20 healthy patients enrolled for plastic surgery and were immediately treated with placebo (SPF 15) or test emulsions. Skin samples were exposed to UVA and UVB for 60 min. Nerve fibres were identified by immunofluorescence using a monoclonal antibody, anti‐human CD56. Cell damage was quantified by image analysis.

Results:  UVA and UVB significantly reduced (40–60%) densities of nerve endings in control samples treated with placebo (P < 0.001). Samples treated with test emulsion completely blocked UV‐related effects on skin nerve endings. These neuroprotective effects were similarly observed regardless of age or tissue analysed (breast versus abdomen).

Conclusions:  Our new skincare formulation obtained from E. purpurea provides important neuroprotective effects of UV irradiation and could be used together with SPFs to prevent chronic deleterious effects of solar exposure.
Twin studies as a model for exploring the aetiology of autoimmune thyroid disease
Authors: Brix Thomas Heiberg , Hegedüs Laszlo
Published: December 2011

Twins are an important resource for evaluating the relative contribution of genetic and environmental factors in determining a phenotype. During the last decades, a number of twin studies have investigated the aetiology of several phenotypes related to thyroid autoimmunity. Taken together, these studies have provided valid and unbiased information regarding the influence of genetic and environmental factors in the aetiology of autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD). The comparison of concordance rates between monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic twins provides irrefutable evidence of a genetic component, and biometric twin modelling shows that approximately 75% of the total phenotypic variance in AITD is because of genetic effects. On the other hand, the lack of complete concordance in MZ twin pairs is proof of environmental and/or epigenetic factors also playing an important role. The impact of environmental triggers such as cigarette smoking, birth characteristics, infection with Yersinia enterocolitica, microchimerism and degree of X chromosome inactivation (XCI) has been evaluated by investigating AITD discordant twin pairs. These studies indicate that smoking, Y. enterocolitica infection and skewed XCI may be causally associated with clinically overt AITD, but not with the presence of thyroid autoantibodies in euthyroid subjects. Microchimerism, but not birth weight, might play a role in AITD. Twin studies offer several features that uniquely enhance our ability to localize genes and understand their function. Future twin studies should incorporate information on genetic, epigenetic and environmental variation thereby enhancing our ability to quantify the precise effect of specific risk factors.
Lipoprotein‐associated phospholipase A2 and outcome in patients with type 2 diabetes on haemodialysis
Authors: Winkler Karl , Hoffmann Michael M. , Krane Vera , Drechsler Christiane , Wanner Christoph ,   for the German Diabetes and Dialysis Study Investigators
Published: December 2011

Eur J Clin Invest 2012; 42 (7): 693–701

Background  Lipoprotein‐associated phospholipase A2 (LpPLA2) is a lipoprotein‐bound enzyme involved in inflammation and atherosclerosis. In a post hoc analysis of a controlled trial with atorvastatin in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) on haemodialysis, we examined the association between baseline and change by measuring baseline LpPLA2 activity on cardiovascular events (CVE) and mortality.

Methods and results  LpPLA2 activity was available of 1202 patients at baseline and 6 months after randomisation from 1255 patients in the German Diabetes Dialysis Study. During the 4‐year follow‐up, 445 patients (37%) suffered from CVE and 583 patients (49%) died. The highest quartile of LpPLA2 activity (≥615 U/L) was associated with elevated risk for CVE [HR 1·35 (1·02–1·87); P = 0·035]. This association was mainly driven by the placebo group [HR 1·51 (1·01–2·25); P = 0·046]. Receiver‐operating characteristics analysis revealed that including LpPLA2 activity in an already adjusted model increased the area under the curve (AUC) for CVE from 0·586 (0·553–0·620) to 0·632 (0·599–0·664; P = 0·020) and for death from 0·704 (0·674–0·733) to 0·708 (0·679–0·737; P = 0·026). In atorvastatin‐treated patients, the decrease in LpPLA2 was associated with reduced fatal risk [HR per standard deviation 0·74 (0·62–0·90); P = 0·002], an effect not seen in the placebo group. In contrast, those patients in the placebo group presenting a > 25% decrease in LpPLA2 activity (n = 33) had a more than doubled risk of dying [HR 2·48 (1·56–3·95); P < 0·001].

Conclusion  LpPLA2 activity is predictive for cardiovascular outcome and total mortality. Reducing LpPLA2 by atorvastatin was associated with reduced mortality in patients with T2D on haemodialysis.
Contrasting effects of an invasive crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) on two temperate stream communities
Authors: KLOSE KRISTIE , COOPER SCOTT D.
Published: December 2011

1. The effects of omnivorous exotic species on native communities are often difficult to predict because of the broad diets and behavioural flexibility of the omnivore, and the diverse abiotic and biotic characteristics of invaded systems. We investigated experimentally the effects of a gradient of density of the introduced, omnivorous red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii (Decapoda: Cambaridae) on two stream communities in southern California, U.S.A.

2. The Ventura River is a clear, flowing stream with a cobble substratum, with abundant algae but low densities of large invertebrates, small herbivores and snails. The Santa Ynez River at the time of the study consisted of a series of drying pools underlain by sand, with abundant charophytes, large predatory invertebrates and herbivores, including snails.

3. In the Ventura River, periphyton biomass and inorganic sediment decreased with increasing crayfish abundance, but in the Santa Ynez River, periphyton and sediment were unrelated to crayfish densities.

4. In the Ventura River, the biomass and density of all benthic invertebrates combined, chironomids, micropredators, the meiofauna (chydorid cladocerans, copepods and ostracods), and specific predatory and herbivorous taxa, as well as taxon richness, were negatively related to crayfish density. In the Santa Ynez River, the biomass and average body size of benthic invertebrates, predatory invertebrates, herbivores and chironomids, but not total invertebrate density or taxon richness, were negatively related to crayfish density.

5. Fewer large predatory invertebrates and snails (Physella gyrina) in both streams, and baetid mayflies in the Ventura River, were visible at night in channels where crayfish were abundant. Snails responded to crayfish by moving above the water line in the Santa Ynez River, but not in the Ventura River.

6. We suggest that the same omnivore had different effects on these neighbouring streams because of crayfish predation on large invertebrates in the Santa Ynez River and the scarcity of such prey in the Ventura River, leading to increased crayfish grazing on periphyton, and reductions in periphyton‐associated invertebrates, in the Ventura River.
Pasture use and management strategies in the Ankole pastoral system in Uganda
Authors: Roschinsky R. , Mulindwa H. , Galukande E. , Wurzinger M. , Mpairwe D. , Okeyo A. M. , Sölkner J.
Published: December 2011

The Bahima ethnic group have been crossbreeding autochthonous Ankole with Holstein‐Friesian cattle. Separate herds (pure Ankole and crossbreds) are common. A survey was conducted to characterize pasture utilization and management in the Ankole region to gain a better understanding of current and emerging practices. Herds are largely grazed by continuous stocking although there are efforts to establish paddocks. Factors considered for pasture allocation to cattle genotypes were high‐quality feed, limited shrubs/weeds and close proximity to homestead for 80, 80 and 30% of farmers, respectively. Cross‐bred cattle were kept on medium/high‐quality, and Ankole cattle on medium/low‐quality pastures. Pastures for cross‐bred cattle yielded 0·17 t ha−1 more dry matter than pastures allocated to Ankole cattle. Crude protein (CP) content of Ankole pasture was significantly (P < 0·05) lower than CP of cross‐bred pasture (6·3% compared with 7·3%). Neutral detergent fibre content was similar (72·8% vs. 69·8%) for both pasture types. Farmers’ perceptions of indicator plant species were important for allocation of pasture. Hyparrhenia rufa, Brachiaria spp., Themeda triandra and Chloris gayana were identified as the preferred pasture species. Sporobolus pyramidalis and Cymbopogon afronardus were the most undesirable pasture species. Brachiaria spp. offers an opportunity for utilization as hay for dry season supplementation.
The endocrine disruptors dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and diethylstilbestrol (DES) influence Leydig cell regeneration following ethane dimethane sulphonate treatment of adult male rats
Authors: Heng K. , Anand‐Ivell R. , Teerds K. , Ivell R.
Published: December 2011

The manner by which endocrine‐disrupting xenobiotics, such as phthalates, can induce changes in the development of the male reproductive system still remains largely unknown. Herein, we have explored the application of ethane dimethane sulphonate (EDS) to eliminate adult‐type Leydig cells in the mature rat testis, leading to their regeneration from resident stem cells, as a novel system to investigate the effects of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and diethylstilbestrol (DES) on adult‐type Leydig cell differentiation. The advantage of this model is that one can study adult‐type Leydig cell differentiation in vivo divorced from the concomitant endocrine development of puberty. In these preliminary studies, we show that both DBP and/or DES, given for 2 or 4 days following EDS application, indeed affect Leydig cell differentiation in the adult testis, largely by increasing early Leydig cell proliferation and possibly thereby delaying early differentiation. In particular, on day 27 post‐EDS, a time‐point when the differentiation trajectory appears to be most discriminating, we observe that both DBP and/or DES cause a fourfold increase in Leydig cell density, and a significant increase in the expression of the Leydig cell‐specific marker transcripts INSL3, LH receptor, Cyp17a1 and Cyp 11a1. In conclusion, both DBP and DES are able to affect adult‐type Leydig cells during their differentiation to cause a significant perturbation in their ultimate functional capacity.
Ecosystem CO2 starvation and terrestrial silicate weathering: mechanisms and global‐scale quantification during the late Miocene
Authors: Beerling David J. , Taylor Lyla L. , Bradshaw Catherine D. C. , Lunt Daniel J. , Valdes Paul J. , Banwart Steven A. , Pagani Mark , Leake Jonathan R.
Published: December 2011

1. The relative constancy of the lower limit on Earth’s atmospheric CO2 concentration ([CO2]a) during major tectonic episodes over the final 24 million years (Ma) of the Cenozoic is surprising because they are expected to draw‐down [CO2]a by enhancing chemical weathering and carbonate deposition on the seafloor. That [CO2]a did not drop to extremely low values suggests the existence of feedback mechanisms that slow silicate weathering as [CO2]a declines. One proposed mechanism is a negative feedback mediated through CO2 starvation of land plants in active orogenic regions compromising the efficiency of the primary carboxylating enzyme in C3 plants (Rubisco) and diminishing productivity and terrestrial weathering.

2. The CO2 starvation hypothesis is developed further by identifying four key related mechanisms: decreasing net primary production leading to (i) decreasing below‐ground C allocation, reducing the surface area of contact between minerals and roots and mycorrhizal fungi and (ii) reduced demand for soil nutrients decreasing the active exudation of protons and organic acids by fine roots and mycorrhizas; (iii) lower carbon cost‐for‐nutrient benefits of arbuscular mycorrhizas (AM) favouring AM over ectomycorrhizal root–fungal symbioses, which are less effective at mineral weathering, and (iv) conversion of forest to C3 and C4 grassland arresting Ca leaching from soils.

3. We evaluated the global importance of mechanisms 1 and 2 in silicate weathering under a changing late Miocene [CO2]a and climate using a process‐based model describing the effects of plants and mycorrhizal fungi on the biological proton cycle and soil chemistry. The model captures what we believe are the key processes controlling the pH of the mycorrhizosphere and includes numerical routines for calculating weathering rates on basalt and granite using simple yet rigorous equilibrium chemistry and rate laws.

4. Our simulations indicate a reduction in the capacity of the terrestrial biosphere to weather continental silicate rocks by a factor of four in response to successively decreasing [CO2]a values (400, 280, 180 and 100 p.p.m.) and associated late Miocene (11.6–5.3 Ma) cooling. Marked reductions in terrestrial weathering could effectively limit biologically mediated long‐term carbon sequestration in marine sediments.

5. These results support the idea of terrestrial vegetation acting as a negative feedback mechanism that counteracts substantial declines in [CO2]a linked to increased production of fresh weatherable minerals in warm, low‐latitude, active orogenic regions.
A forest structure model that determines crown layers and partitions growth and mortality rates for landscape‐scale applications of tropical forests
Authors: Bohlman Stephanie , Pacala Stephen
Published: December 2011

1. We present a model to quantify tropical forest structure and explain variance in dynamic rates (growth and mortality) that is computationally simple and can be applied to landscape‐scale forest inventory and, potentially, remote sensing‐derived data.

2. The model is a modification of the perfect plasticity approximation (PPA) based on tree allometry, tree locations and sizes. The model quantifies crown area index (CAI) (number of crowns per unit ground area) and assigns trees to crown layers, which determines the expected number of crowns above each tree and thus its light environment.

3. The structural model, parameterized and tested for the Barro Colorado Island, Panama 50‐ha forest dynamics plot using data from forest inventories and stereo aerial photographs, reproduces most canopy and understorey structural and dynamic properties. The PPA model worked as well or better than a computationally intensive, spatially explicit model. A single allometry for all trees worked equally well as functional group or species allometries. Models of growth and mortality were always improved by adding crown layers as defined by the PPA model.

4. The mean CAI of the 50‐ha plot was 3.1 with low variance. The observed variance was lower than when tree locations were randomized, which drastically lowered the variance in tree density per plot, indicating that there are regulating forces towards a small range of crown area indices.

5. Synthesis. A number of simplifying characteristics in structure were uncovered with the PPA structural model applied to a tropical forest: species allometries were not needed despite the high species diversity in the forest; the model worked on a range of plot sizes; and the variance in CAI was surprisingly low, suggesting regulatory mechanisms. The PPA structural model can be used to develop a fully dynamic simulation model for tropical forests. The ability of the simulation model to predict temporal changes in landscape patterns of biomass, dynamic rates, and species and/or functional group composition will provide validation for the partitioning of dynamic rates by crown layers in the PPA structural model.
Realist methods in medical education research: what are they and what can they contribute?
Authors: Wong Geoff , Greenhalgh Trisha , Westhorp Gill , Pawson Ray
Published: December 2011

Medical Education 2012: 46: 89–96

Context  Education is a complex intervention which produces different outcomes in different circumstances. Education researchers have long recognised the need to supplement experimental studies of efficacy with a broader range of study designs that will help to unpack the ‘how’ and ‘why’ questions and illuminate the many, varied and interdependent mechanisms by which interventions may work (or fail to work) in different contexts.

Methods  One promising approach is realist evaluation, which seeks to establish what works, for whom, in what circumstances, in what respects, to what extent, and why. This paper introduces the realist approach and explains why it is particularly suited to education research. It gives a brief introduction to the philosophical assumptions underlying realist methods and outlines key principles of realist evaluation (designed for empirical studies) and realist review (the application of realist methods to secondary research).

Discussion  The paper warns that realist approaches are not a panacea and lists the circumstances in which they are likely to be particularly useful.
History and practice of competency‐based assessment
Authors: Lurie Stephen J.
Published: December 2011

Medical Education 2012: 46: 49–57

Context  In response to historical trends in expectations of doctors, the goals of medical education are increasingly framed in terms of global competencies. The language of these competencies has tended to adopt a prescriptive, rather than descriptive, approach. However, despite widespread agreement on the importance of competency‐based education and more than two decades of study, this effort has not generated a dependable set of assessment tools.

Discussion  Because models of competency are legislated, rather than shaped by scholarly consideration of empirical data, it is unlikely that such models directly reflect actual human behaviour. Efforts to measure clinical behaviours could benefit from increased clarity in three related conceptual areas. Firstly, the language of educational constructs should be framed in terms of data‐based hypotheses, rather than in terms of intuitively plausible abilities. Secondly, these constructs should be specified in terms of the situations to which they are relevant, rather than as global personal characteristics. Finally, the resources required to measure these constructs should be rigorously established because a common resource‐based metric would allow for rational selection of assessment methods. Specific methods to establish each of these objectives are discussed.

Conclusions  The political process of negotiating educational objectives should not be confused with the scientific work of establishing coherent and interpretable patterns of behaviour. Although the two activities can complement one another, each has its own distinct methods and style of discourse. It is thus critical to maintain boundaries between these two approaches to defining professional performance.
Interprofessional education: a review of context, learning and the research agenda
Authors: Thistlethwaite Jill
Published: December 2011

Medical Education 2012: 46: 58–70

Context  Interprofessional education (IPE) is not a recent phenomenon and has been the subject of several World Health Organization reports. Its focus is on health professionals and students learning with, from and about one another to improve collaboration and the quality of patient care. The drivers for IPE include new models of health care delivery in the context of an ageing population and the increasing prevalence of long‐term chronic disease, in addition to the patient safety agenda. The delivery of complex health care requires a team‐based and collaborative approach, although teamwork and collaborative practice are not necessarily synonymous. The rationale for IPE is that learning together enhances future working together.

Discussion  Systematic reviews of IPE have shown some evidence that IPE fosters positive interaction among different professions and variable evidence that it improves attitudes towards other professionals. Generalisation across published papers is difficult because IPE initiatives are diverse and good evaluation methodology and data are lacking. In terms of constructive alignment from an education viewpoint, there is a need for educators to define learning outcomes and match these with learning activities to ensure that IPE demonstrates added value over uniprofessional learning. Assessment is difficult as pre‐qualification professional education focuses on the individual and professional accreditation organisations mandate only for their own professions.

Conclusions  Interprofessional education draws from a number of education, sociology and psychology theories, and these are briefly discussed. The most pressing research questions for the IPE community are defined and the challenges for IPE explored.
Overlap of dyspepsia and gastroesophageal reflux in the general population: one disease or distinct entities?
Authors: Choung R. S. , Locke G. R. , Schleck C. D. , Zinsmeister A. R. , Talley N. J.
Published: December 2011

Background  The overlap of dyspepsia and gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is known to be frequent, but whether the overlap group is a distinct entity or not remains unclear. The aims of the study was to evaluate whether the overlap of dyspepsia and GER (dyspepsia‐GER overlap) occurs more than expected due to chance alone, and evaluate the risk factors for dyspepsia‐GER overlap.

Methods  In 2008 and 2009, a validated Bowel Disease Questionnaire was mailed to a total of 8006 community sample from Olmsted County, MN. Overall, 3831 of the 8006 subjects returned surveys (response rate 48%). Dyspepsia was defined by symptom criteria of Rome III; GER was defined by weekly or more frequent heartburn and/or acid regurgitation.

Key Results  Dyspepsia and GER occurred together more commonly than expected by chance. The somatic symptom checklist score was significantly associated with dyspepsia‐GER overlap vs GER alone or dyspepsia alone [OR = 1.9 (1.4, 2.5), and 1.6 (1.2, 2.1), respectively]. Insomnia was also significantly associated with dyspepsia‐GER overlap vs. GER alone or dyspepsia alone [OR = 1.4 (1.1, 1.7), OR = 1.3 (1.1, 1.6), respectively]. Moreover, proton pump inhibitor use was significantly associated with dyspepsia‐GER overlap vs dyspepsia alone [OR = 2.4 (1.5, 3.8)].

Conclusions & Inferences  Dyspepsia‐GER overlap is common in the population and is greater than expected by chance.
Intrauterine growth and postnatal skeletal development: findings from the Southampton Women's Survey
Authors: Harvey Nicholas C. , Mahon Pam A. , Kim Miranda , Cole Zoe A. , Robinson Sian M. , Javaid Kassim , Inskip Hazel M. , Godfrey Keith M. , Dennison Elaine M. , Cooper Cyrus ,   the SWS Study Group
Published: December 2011

Harvey NC, Mahon PA, Kim M, Cole ZA, Robinson SM, Javaid K, Inskip HM, Godfrey KM, Dennison EM, Cooper C, the SWS Study Group. Intrauterine growth and postnatal skeletal development: findings from the Southampton Women's Survey. Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology 2012; 26: 34–44.

We have previously demonstrated associations between fetal growth in late pregnancy and postnatal bone mass. However, the relationships between the intrauterine and early postnatal skeletal growth trajectory remain unknown. We addressed this in a large population‐based mother–offspring cohort study. A total of 628 mother–offspring pairs were recruited from the Southampton Women's Survey. Fetal abdominal circumference was measured at 11, 19 and 34 weeks gestation using high‐resolution ultrasound with femur length assessed at 19 and 34 weeks. Bone mineral content was measured postnatally in the offspring using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry at birth and 4 years; postnatal linear growth was assessed at birth, 6, 12, 24, 36 and 48 months. Late pregnancy abdominal circumference growth (19–34 weeks) was strongly (P < 0.01) related to bone mass at birth, but less robustly associated with bone mass at 4 years. Early pregnancy growth (11–19 weeks) was more strongly related to bone mass at 4 years than at birth. Postnatal relationships between growth and skeletal indices at 4 years were stronger for the first and second postnatal years, than the period aged 2–4 years. The proportion of children changing their place in the distribution of growth velocities progressively reduced with each year of postnatal life. The late intrauterine growth trajectory is a better predictor of skeletal growth and mineralisation at birth, while the early intrauterine growth trajectory is a more powerful determinant of skeletal status at age 4 years. The perturbations in this trajectory which influence childhood bone mass warrant further research.
Risk factors for pre‐eclampsia in Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
Authors: Kiondo Paul , Wamuyu‐Maina Gakenia , Bimenya Gabriel S. , Tumwesigye Nazarius Mbona , Wandabwa Julius , Okong Pius
Published: December 2011

Objective  Pre‐eclampsia contributes significantly to maternal, foetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. The risk factors for pre‐eclampsia have not been well documented in Uganda. In this paper, we describe the risk factors for pre‐eclampsia in women attending antenatal clinics at Mulago Hospital, Kampala.

Methods  This casecontrol study was conducted from 1st May 2008 to 1st May 2009. 207 women with pre‐eclampsia were the cases, and 352 women with normal pregnancy were the controls. The women were 15–39 years old, and their gestational ages were 20 weeks or more. They were interviewed about their socio‐demographic characteristics, past medical history and, their past and present obstetric performances.

Results  The risk factors were low plasma vitamin C (OR 3.19, 95% CI: 1.54–6.61), low education level (OR 1.67, 95% CI: 1.12–2.48), chronic hypertension (OR 2.29, 95% CI 1.12–4.66), family history of hypertension (OR 2.25, 95% CI: 1.53–3.31) and primiparity (OR 2.76, 95% CI: 1.84–4.15) and para≥5 (3.71, 95% CI:1.84–7.45).

Conclusion  The risk factors identified are similar to what has been found elsewhere. Health workers need to identify women at risk of pre‐eclampsia and manage them appropriately so as to prevent the maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality associated with this condition.
The contribution of a pollinating seed predator to selection onSilene latifoliafemales
Authors: BURKHARDT A. , RIDENHOUR B. J. , DELPH L. F. , BERNASCONI G.
Published: December 2011

Interactions, antagonistic or mutualistic, can exert selection on plant traits. We explored the role ofHadena bicruris, a pollinating seed predator, as a selective agent on its host, the dioecious plantSilene latifolia. We exposed females from artificial‐selection lines (many, small flowers (SF) vs. few, large flowers (LF)) to this moth. Infestation did not differ significantly between lines, but the odds of attacked fruits aborting were higher in SF females. We partitioned selection between that caused by moth attack and that resulting from all other factors. In both lines, selection via moth attack for fewer, smaller flowers contrasted with selection via other factors for more flowers. In LF females, selection via the two components was strongest and selection via moth attack also favoured increased fruit abortion. This suggests that the moths act as more of a selective force on flower size and number via their predating than their pollinating role.
Clinical benefits and cost‐effectiveness of allogeneic red‐blood‐cell transfusion in severe symptomatic anaemia
Authors: Beliaev A. M. , Marshall R. J. , Gordon M. , Smith W. , Windsor J. A.
Published: December 2011

Background  It is well known that blood transfusion is life‐saving, but also that it carries a serious risk of transmitting viral infections. Introduction of new methods of testing for transmissible diseases, blood banking and dispatch regulations has considerably increased the cost of blood products. However, the clinical benefits and cost‐effectiveness of allogeneic red‐blood‐cell (ARBC) transfusion remain assumed yet undetermined. We assessed the clinical benefits and cost‐effectiveness of ARBC transfusion in severe anaemia.

Methods  This was a multicenter observational study comparing Jehovah’s Witness (JW) patients with matched ARBC‐transfused patients. Inclusion criteria were age ≥15 years and severe anaemia (haemoglobin ≤ 80 g/l). Two JW patients with palliative care cancer and five JW patients with haemoglobin (Hb) concentration between 70·1 and 80 g/l, mild symptoms of anaemia and Auckland Anaemia Mortality Risk Score of 0–3 were excluded.

Results  The entry criteria were met by 103 JW patients and the same number of patients treated with ARBC transfusion. ARBC transfusion reduced mortality by 94%, shock by 88%, gastrointestinal bleeding by 81%, infective complications by 81%, cardiac arrhythmia by 96%, angina by 86%, ischaemic myocardial injury by 81%, acute/acute on chronic renal failure by 66%, neurologic complications by 92%, delirium by 76%, depression by 91% and syncopal episodes by 95%. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of ARBC transfusion was 2011 US$22 515 for death prevented.

Conclusion  ARBC transfusion in anaemic patients is clinically beneficial and cost‐effective.
Neurochemical Properties of Aquaporin 1‐Expressing Sensory Neurons from the Ovine Trigeminal Ganglion
Authors: Arciszewski M. B.
Published: December 2011

Aims of the present study were to investigate the distribution and morphology of aquaporin 1‐immunoreactive (AQP1‐IR) neurons in the sensory ganglia of the sheep. Double immunohistochemical staining was applied to figure out whether substance P (SP), calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) and galanin are present in AQP1‐bearing primary afferent neurons. The expression of AQP1 was present only in trigeminal ganglion, whereas in nodose ganglion, jugular ganglion as well as C1–C7 dorsal root ganglia no presence of AQP1 was found. In trigeminal ganglion, 15.4 ± 2.3% of Hu C/D‐IR neurons (pan‐neuronal marker) showed the presence of AQP1. The vast majority of AQP1‐IR trigeminal sensory neurons (approximately 69.6 ± 3.3%, n = 5) were classified as middle in size, 28.6 ± 3.0% of AQP1‐IR neurons were small and only 1.8 ± 0.6% of AQP1‐positive neurons were large in size. Amongst the population of AQP1‐IR trigeminal neurons as many as 58.5 ± 3.9% were immunopositive to SP, 30.7 ± 2.3% showed the presence of CGRP and 10.9 ± 0.2% coexpressed galanin. In trigeminal ganglion, SP‐IR as well as CGRP‐IR (but not galanin‐IR) nerve fibres were found in close neighbourhood of AQP1‐IR neurons. It is concluded that AQP1 is present in certain neuronal subsets of the ovine trigeminal ganglion; however, the exact role of this water channel has to be elucidated.
Temperature influences the expression of resistance of soybean (Glycine max) to the soybean aphid (Aphis glycines)
Authors: Richardson M. L.
Published: December 2011

Resistance of plants to arthropods may be lost at low or high temperatures. I tested whether the relative resistance of five genotypes of soybean, Glycine max (L.) Merr., to three isolates of the soybean aphid, Aphis glycines Matsumura, was influenced by three temperatures, 14, 21 and 28°C, in no‐choice tests in the laboratory. The interaction between temperature and the genotype of soybean influenced the population sizes of two isolates of A. glycines. Two genotypes of soybean, LD05‐16611 and PI 567597C, which usually are resistant to isolate 1 and 3, became susceptible: LD05‐16611 at the low temperature and PI 567597C at the high temperature. The genotypes PI 200538 and PI 567541B usually are susceptible to isolate 3 but were resistant at 21 and 28°C. I can only speculate as to the reason why temperature influences resistance of some genotypes of soybean to A. glycines: A. glycines may be directly influenced by temperature or indirectly influenced by changes in the host plant. Nevertheless, my results suggest that temperature may be one factor that influences the expression of resistance of soybean to A. glycines, so genotypes of soybean should be screened for resistance to the aphid at multiple temperatures.
Trend of severe abdominal injuries from bicycle accidents in children: A preventable condition
Authors: Muthucumaru Mathievathaniy , Keys Charles , Kimber Chris , Ferguson Peter , Varma Poornima , Cheng Wei
Published: December 2011

Aim:  Bicycle riding is a common recreational and sport activity enjoyed by many children. Bicycle accidents are a common cause of abdominal injuries. We aim to establish the trend and the associated risk factor(s) of bicycle‐related abdominal injuries.

Methods:  A retrospective review of all children admitted following bicycle accidents to a single tertiary referral centre was carried out over an approximately 5‐year period. The data were tabulated and regression analyses were carried out.

Results:  Over the study period, 196 children were admitted into the Emergency Department. Abdominal injuries (16%) were the third largest group after orthopaedic and head injuries. There were 19 major visceral injuries, seven of whom underwent major surgeries. Forty‐two percent (8/19) of these major injuries were related to stunts. Over the same period, no child with head injury required any surgical intervention. In addition, there was a definite trend that abdominal injuries were accounting for greater percentage of bicycle‐related injuries in children.

Conclusions:  Severe intra‐abdominal trauma following bicycle injuries appears to be seen more often in adolescent males, especially when related to BMX stunts. These injuries have surpassed head injuries as the prime cause of morbidity from bicycle accidents. These injuries are largely preventable.
Close temporal coupling of neuronal activity and tissue oxygen responses in rodent whisker barrel cortex
Authors: Li Jennifer , Bravo Diego S. , Louise Upton A. , Gilmour Gary , Tricklebank Mark D. , Fillenz Marianne , Martin Chris , Lowry John P. , Bannerman David M. , McHugh Stephen B.
Published: December 2011

Neuronal activity elicits metabolic and vascular responses, during which oxygen is first consumed and then supplied to the tissue via an increase in cerebral blood flow. Understanding the spatial and temporal dynamics of blood and tissue oxygen () responses following neuronal activity is crucial for understanding the physiological basis of functional neuroimaging signals. However, our knowledge is limited because previous measurements have been made at low temporal resolution (>100 ms). Here we recorded at high temporal resolution (1 ms), simultaneously with co‐localized field potentials, at several cortical depths from the whisker region of the somatosensory cortex in anaesthetized rats and mice. Stimulation of the whiskers produced rapid, laminar‐specific changes in . Positive responses (i.e. increases) were observed in the superficial layers within 50 ms of stimulus onset, faster than previously reported. Negative responses (i.e. decreases) were observed in the deeper layers, with maximal amplitude in layer IV, within 40 ms of stimulus onset. The amplitude of the negative, but not the positive, response correlated with local field potential amplitude. Disruption of neurovascular coupling, via nitric oxide synthase inhibition, abolished positive responses to whisker stimulation in the superficial layers and increased negative responses in all layers. Our data show that responses occur rapidly following neuronal activity and are laminar dependent.
Disseminated mite infection with ocular involvement in a juvenile bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
Authors: Bueno‐Padilla Irene , Klauss Gia , Gardiner Chris H. , Wuenschmann Arno
Published: December 2011

A bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) was found unable to fly and was admitted to The Raptor Center (TRC). Major clinical signs were thin body condition and a cardiac arrhythmia. Ten days after admission to TRC, ophthalmic examination revealed multiple, distinct serpiginous lesions of chorioretinal atrophy in the ocular fundus of the right eye (OD). The bird was euthanized because of clinical deterioration and poor prognosis. Mites of an undetermined species were found histologically in the retina, episcleral tissues, lungs, and liver at the postmortem examination. Disseminated mite infection should be considered in the differential diagnosis of serpiginous chorioretinal lesions in bald eagles (H. leucocephalus).
Africa and the Global Economic Crisis: Impacts, Policy Responses and Political Economy
Authors: Devarajan Shantayanan , Kasekende Louis A.
Published: December 2011

Abstract:  The global financial and economic crisis, which hit Africa with a lag, has caused serious setbacks to the continent's growth momentum and likely jeopardized hard‐won development gains of recent years. Even though most African countries are likely to avoid recession, the sharp drop in growth rates can have serious, long‐term consequences, especially for poor and vulnerable Africans. Furthermore, the speed of the continent's recovery and longer‐term growth rates remain uncertain. What is, however, remarkable is that unlike in previous crises (as the energy crisis in the 1970s), this time round the response of most African governments has been to continue with the prudent macroeconomic policies of the past decade, and it is these policies that are giving these countries the fiscal space with which to cushion the impact of the global crisis and avoid an even deeper recession. The emergency rescue packages that some countries introduced are also carefully designed to maintain reform momentum in the medium term. At the same time, some countries have used the crisis as an opportunity to accelerate reforms, leaving them in a better position to take advantage of a recovery in the global economy. Thus, while the global crisis has wreaked havoc on African economies, the policy response of most governments demonstrates that the overall policy environment in Africa remains sound. This paper provides three hypotheses to explain this policy response, which stands in some contrast with African governments’ responses to previous crises. First, the prudent macroeconomic stance taken by these countries is simply a reflection of their access to capital markets and thin domestic financial markets. Second, the experience of the past decade, where prudent macroeconomic policies resulted in countries being better able to respond to the crisis, created an environment where governments were reluctant to deviate too far from their macroeconomic stance, lest they be left vulnerable during the next crisis. And third, that there has been a shift in the public's attitude towards economic reforms, and African policymakers were reflecting this shift in their policy responses to the crisis. The paper concludes that if this third hypothesis is the most likely one, it bodes well for Africa's future, despite the global crisis. For it means that economic reforms in Africa will continue and will unlikely be reversed, even with a sluggish global economy, because the public's mind‐set has shifted.
The Second AIF and the End of Empires: Soldiers' Attitudes Toward a “Free Asia”
Authors: Grant Lachlan
Published: December 2011

Largely neglected within studies of Australian attitudes — and changing Australian attitudes — toward Asia throughout the twentieth century are the diverse views expressed by the single major group of Australians to encounter the region, namely the servicemen and women of the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) who served the nation during the Pacific War 1941–1945. Within forums offered by soldier publications such as Salt, Australian troops were engaged in discussions about why the war had been fought (often with reference to the merits and ideals outlined within the Atlantic Charter, Declaration by United Nations and United Nations Charter). Central to such discussions were attitudes toward race, colonialism and Australia's role and future role in regional and world affairs. Importantly, well‐informed understandings of Asian affairs were crucial to discussions.