bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of textual enhancement on English as a foreign language learners' anaphor resolution performance and reading comprehension in Taiwan
Authors: Fang Ting
Published: April 2014

Successful anaphor comprehension in reading is related to the explicitness of the antecedent–anaphor relation. It mirrors one of the purposes of textual enhancement (TE), which is that it raises learners' awareness of linguistic forms by enhancing the salience of input. Therefore, learners notice the enhanced form and discover the rule or relationship after they have become relatively explicit. This study investigates the effects of TE on second language learners' anaphor resolution performance and reading comprehension, to reveal the interaction among learners' comprehension, anaphor performance and noticing. Sixty EFL learners in Taiwan were divided into the control and TE groups. Participants' posttest responses were compared with respect to their anaphor resolution performance and their reading comprehension degree. The results showed that the TE group had better anaphor resolution performance, and participants' form processing did not impede their reading comprehension. These findings are discussed with both theoretical and pedagogical implications.
Stochastic Regional Convergence in China: The Role of Regional Clusters in a Nonlinear Perspective (1952–2007)
Authors: Herrerias Maria Jesus , Ordóñez Javier
Published: April 2014

This paper investigates the notion of stochastic convergence behaviour across the Chinese provinces. Unlike previous works, the present paper takes into account the economic geography by examining the regional clusters and the significant transformation of the Chinese economy through the introduction of structural breaks and nonlinearities in the model. Results indicate that the regional clusters are relevant to the convergence behaviour across China, when both the administrative division and the regional clusters are considered. However, the number of provinces that are converging is higher in the latter case. When nonlinearities were considered across the regional clusters, we found that 18 provinces have already converged with their cluster, 3 provinces are catching up and 10 regions show divergence. These findings are useful for the design and development of national and regional economic policies in the Chinese economy.
From Public Familiarity to Comfort Zone: The Relevance of Absent Ties for Belonging in Berlin's Mixed Neighbourhoods
Authors: Blokland Talja , Nast Julia
Published: April 2014

Segregation along lines of race/ethnicity and class has created multi‐ethnic and rather class‐homogeneous neighbourhoods in various European cities, commonly labelled as ‘disadvantaged’. Such neighbourhoods are often seen as ‘lacking’ community, as local networks are crucial for belonging and mixed neighbourhoods are too diverse to provide homogeneous identifications. However, in contrast to the understandings of the sociology of community, people might still experience ‘belonging’, yet in different ways. This article argues that we have to focus on the under‐researched ‘time in‐between’ (Byrne, 1978), the absent ties that Granovetter (1973) pointed to, to understand belonging, while moving away from a conception of the anonymous city and from the urban village. This article explores how absent ties affect belonging by empirically sustaining the notion of public familiarity: both recognizing and being recognized in local spaces. Using regression models on survey data from two mixed neighbourhoods in Berlin, Germany, we analyse the importance of neighbourhood use for public familiarity as well as how it relates to residents' comfort zone: people's feeling of belonging and their sense that others would intervene on their behalf. Our findings indicate that research on neighbourhoods could benefit greatly from a careful consideration of the ‘time in‐between’.
Teachers' understandings of curriculum adaptations for learners with learning difficulties in primary schools in Botswana: issues and challenges of inclusive education
Authors: Otukile‐Mongwaketse Mpho , Mangope Boitumelo , Kuyini Ahmed Bawa
Published: April 2014

This paper derives from research carried out in a number of Botswana primary schools on teachers' understanding of curriculum adaptations for learners who experience learning difficulties (LD) as part of implementing inclusive education. Teachers' understanding play a crucial role in how they make curriculum accessible for learners with LD during the teaching and learning processes. Interviews with 12 teachers and classroom observations were conducted in six primary schools in urban, semi‐urban and rural areas. The data was analysed using qualitative procedures, and results of the study revealed that teachers' understanding of curriculum adaptations seemed embedded within the concept of remedial education where learners with LD are assisted outside the scheduled time of the lesson. The results also showed that teachers' main focus on completing the set curriculum in preparation for examinations compromised curriculum access of learners with LD in general education classrooms.
An Emissions Trading Scheme for Australia: National and Regional Impacts
Authors: Adams Philip D. , Parmenter Brian R. , Verikios George
Published: April 2014

Computable general equilibrium modelling in Australia is oriented towards providing inputs to the policy‐formation process, a process that requires detail. We explain how the necessary level of detail can be provided using analysis of the potential economic impacts of a carbon price on the Australian economy that operates as part of a global emissions trading scheme. The global scheme sets the price and allocation of permits across countries. We find that domestic abatement falls well short of targeted abatement, Australia'sGDPis 1.1 per cent lower relative to the basecase, and some industries and regions are vulnerable to employment losses.
Snow craneflies of the Genus Chionea Dalman (Diptera: Limoniidae) from Korea
Authors: Suh Sang Jae , Kwon Jin Hyung , Kwon Yong Jung
Published: April 2014

The Korean snow cranefly genus Chionea Dalman is reviewed taxonomically. Four species are identified: C. crassipes Boheman, C. kanenoi Sasakawa, C. mirabilis Vanin and C. deogyusana sp. nov. Among them, C. deogyusana sp. nov. is new to science, and C. kanenoi is reported for the first time in Korea. A key to Korean species and photographs of external features are given.
Stereotactic radiotherapy using tomotherapy for early‐stage non‐small cell lung carcinoma: Analysis of intrafraction tumour motion
Authors: Boggs Drexell Hunter , Feigenberg Steven , Walter Robert , Wissing Dennis , Patel Bijal , Wu Terry , Rosen Lane
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Intrafraction tumour motion in helical tomotherapy was investigated by comparing pre‐ and mid‐fraction CT scans in patients with early non‐small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) to assess the efficacy of a 7‐mm margin around gross tumour volumes (GTVs) in stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

Methods

Thirty patients with early‐stage NSCLC received SBRT in four or five fractions for a total of 141 treatments. A slow positron emission tomography/CT scan was fused with the simulation CT to determine the GTV. A planning target volume was created by placing an isotropic margin of 7 mm around the GTV. Data were retrospectively analyzed to assess translational tumour positional changes along the x, y and z axes and vector changes in millimeters from the pretreatment megavoltage (MV)‐CT to the mid‐fraction MV‐CT.

Results

Average movements for all 141 treatment days along the x, y and z axes were 0.5 ± 2.3, −0.3 ± 3.0 and 0.9 ± 3.0 mm, respectively. Average movements for each patient along the x, y and z axes were 0.5 ± 1.5, −0.2 ± 2.0 and 0.9 ± 1.9 mm, respectively. Average vector displacement was 4.3 ± 2.4 mm for all treatment days and 4.2 ± 1.7 mm for each patient. Of 141 treatments, 137 (97.2%) fell within 7.0 mm in all axes.

Conclusion

The addition of a 7‐mm margin to the GTV for patients receiving SBRT for NSCLC using tomotherapy is adequate to account for tumour movement. Mid‐fraction CT scans proved to be valuable in assessing intrafraction tumour motion.
Rare case of acute dengue encephalitis with correlated MRI findings
Authors: Mathew Rishi Philip , Basti Ram Shenoy , Hegde Pavan , Devdas Jaidev M , Khan Habeeb Ullah , Bukelo Mario Joseph
Published: April 2014

Dengue encephalitis is extremely rare, with most patients showing no significant abnormality on neuroimaging (CT/MRI). We report one of the very few documented cases of dengue encephalitis, with abnormal signal intensities on all major sequences on brain MRI.
Retinal vessel oxygen saturation and vessel diameter in retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Eysteinsson Thor , Hardarson Sveinn H. , Bragason David , Stefánsson Einar
Published: April 2014

Purpose

To assess retinal vessel oxygen saturation and retinal vessel diameter in retinitis pigmentosa.

Methods

A retinal oximeter (Oxymap ehf., Reykjavik, Iceland) was used to measure retinal vessel oxygen saturation and vessel diameter in ten patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) (mean age 49 years, range 23–71 years). Results were compared with age‐ and gender‐matched healthy individuals. All patients had advanced stage of the disease with visual fields restricted to the macular region.

Results

Oxygen saturation in retinal venules was 58.0 ± 6.2% in patients with RP and 53.4 ± 4.8% in healthy subjects (p = 0.017). Oxygen saturation in retinal arterioles was not significantly different between groups (p = 0.65). The mean diameter of retinal arterioles was 8.9 ± 1.6 pixels in patients with RP and 11.4 ± 1.2 in healthy controls (p < 0.0001). The corresponding diameters for venules were 10.1 ± 1.2 (RP) and 15.3 ± 1.7 (healthy, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Increased venous saturation and decreased retinal vessel diameter suggest decreased oxygen delivery from the retinal circulation in retinitis pigmentosa. This is probably secondary to tissue atrophy and reduced oxygen consumption.
Retinal vessel oxygen saturation and its correlation with structural changes in retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Türksever Cengiz , Valmaggia Christophe , Orgül Selim , Schorderet Daniel F. , Flammer Josef , Todorova Margarita G.
Published: April 2014

Purpose

To study the influence of retinal structural changes on oxygen saturation in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) patients.

Methods

Oximetry measurements were performed on 21 eyes of 11 RP patients and compared to 24 eyes of 12 controls. Retinal oxygen saturation was measured in all major retinal arterioles (A‐SO2) and venules (V‐SO2) with an oximetry unit of the retinal vessel analyser (IMEDOS Systems UG, Jena, Germany). Oximetry data were compared with morphological changes measured by Cirrus optical coherence tomography (OCT) (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA, USA, macular thickness protocol).

Results

In RP patients, the retinal A‐SO2 and V‐SO2 levels were higher at 99.3% (p = 0.001, anova based on mixed‐effects model) and 66.8% (p < 0.001), respectively, and the difference between the two (A‐V SO2) was lower at 32.5% (p < 0.001), when compared to the control group (92.4%; 54.0%; 38.4%, respectively). With the RP group, the A‐V SO2 correlated positively, not only with central macular thickness, but also with retinal thickness, in zones 2 and 3 (p = 0.006, p = 0.007, p = 0.014).

Conclusion

These data indicate that oxygen metabolism was altered in RP patients. Based on our preliminary results, retinal vessel saturation correlated with structural alterations in RP. This method could be valuable in monitoring disease progression and evaluating a potential therapeutic response.
Autorefraction versus subjective refraction in a radially asymmetric multifocal intraocular lens
Authors: van der Linden Jan Willem , Vrijman Violette , El‐Saady Rana , van der Meulen Ivanka J. , Mourits Maarten P. , Lapid‐Gortzak Ruth
Published: April 2014

Purpose

To evaluate whether the automated refraction (AR) correlates with subjective manifest (MR) refraction in eyes implanted with radially asymmetric multifocal intraocular lens (IOLs).

Methods

This retrospective study evaluated 52 eyes (52 patients) implanted with a radially asymmetric multifocal IOL (LS‐312 MF30, Oculentis, Germany). At 3 months postoperatively, the AR and MR values were compared to determine the correlation between the sphere (S), the spherical equivalent (SE) and the astigmatic components J0 and J45.

Results

The difference of mean spherical measurement was +0.98D ± 0.62, with the AR measuring more myopic. The difference of the mean spherical equivalent was +1.11D ± 0.57, again with AR being more myopic. Both these differences were statistically significant (p < 0.001). The astigmatic components showed less differences, with the mean difference of the J0 being −0.09D ± 0.43, and the J45 of +0.04D ± 0.47, which were both not statistically significant (p = 0.123 and p = 0.531, respectively). Correlation analysis of the refractive parameters showed r2 = 0.067, r2 = 0.078, r2 = 0.018 and r2 = 0.015, respectively, all of which point to a low correlation between the AR and the MR.

Conclusion

Autorefraction shows poor correlation to manifest subjective refraction with these radially asymmetric multifocal IOLs. The autorefraction systematically underestimates the spherical and spherical equivalent power, while the correlation between the astigmatic components was also low. Autorefraction seems not a valid starting point for manifest subjective refraction with these types of lenses, unless a corrective factor of about +1 dioptre is used.
Human parallels to experimental myopia? A literature review on visual deprivation
Authors: Fledelius Hans C. , Goldschmidt Ernst , Haargaard Birgitte , Jensen Hanne
Published: April 2014

Raviola and Wiesel's monkey eyelid suture studies of the 1970s laid the cornerstone for the experimental myopia science undertaken since then. The aim has been to clarify the basic humoral and neuronal mechanisms behind induced myopization, its eye tissue transmitters in particular. Besides acquiring new and basic knowledge, the practical object of the research is to reduce the burden of human myopia around the world. Acquisition and cost of optical correction is one issue, but associated morbidity counts more, with its global load of myopia‐associated visual loss and blindness. The object of the present PubMed literature‐based review is to evaluate apparent similarities between experience from disturbed imaging in experimental laboratory science and varieties within the spectrum of childhood human myopia. So far, the main impression is that macroscopical optical deprivation appears absent in the prevalent types of human myopia, nor is myopia a regular sequel where early eye pathology has led to poor imaging and optical deprivation. Optical aberrations of a higher order are a relatively new issue in myopia research, and microstructural deprivation is only marginally dealt within the survey. Links between experimental and human myopia appear mainly occasional, and with only few examples in humans where factual parallels appear credible. Clinical and epidemiological data on refraction remain important, in particular with a view to life style and environmental factors. Such knowledge may further serve as inspiration to the laboratory research, which aims at solving the basic enigmas on a tissue level.
Empowerment programme for parents of extremely premature infants significantly reduced length of stay and readmission rates
Authors: Gonya J , Martin E , McClead R , Nelin L , Shepherd E
Published: April 2014

Aim

Extremely premature infants experience long hospitalisation and high readmission rates within 30 days of discharge. This quality control investigation retrospectively explored the impact of the Creating Opportunities for Parent Empowerment (COPE©) programme on these rates in an all referral, Level‐IV small baby intensive care unit setting.

Methods

The parents of 303 extremely premature infants participated in the study. Of those, 135 were admitted before the implementation of COPE© and served as baseline historical controls, and the remaining 168 neonates received the intervention. Length of stay and readmission rates were analysed using parametric and nonparametric tests. Additional analyses were used to compare the two groups in terms of gestational age, birthweight and other acuity measures.

Results

Neonates who received COPE© required significantly reduced lengths of stay than the control neonates (COPE© 127.1 ± 55.8 days vs. control 139.6 ± 61.9 days, p < 0.05) and significantly lower readmission rates (COPE© 23.9% vs. control 13.2%, p = 0.05).

Conclusion

The COPE© programme promoted active parental engagement in the unit and significantly reduced hospital stays and readmission rates. Future interventions should identify the specific components of the programme that support the parents of extremely premature infants during the various phases of hospitalisation.
Competition policy and intellectual property rights in the information and communications technology sector: Policy implications and options for ASEAN
Authors: Wattanapruttipaisan Thitapha
Published: April 2014

ASEAN exports are dominated by products with high levels of new knowledge and innovation but they are also characterised by low value addition due to limited innovation inputs in export processing. The information and communications technology sector embodies wide‐ranging opportunities for innovation‐driven value creation and structural upgrading among interdependent industries and economies. There are, however, also formidable challenges from the systemic or unexpected consequences of the anti‐trust and intellectual property policy regimes, anticompetitive business conduct, and the nuanced and layered outcomes in adjudication as regards the property rights and competition interface. The international experiences in enforcement approach and emphasis, substantive and procedural convergence, and enforcement versus advocacy have yielded some important policy insights, deployable options, and implementation prerequisites for consideration by the young or new competition authorities as well as for research attention in ASEAN and elsewhere.
Commodity prices and monetary policy in emerging East Asia during the global financial crisis
Authors: Tang Hsiao Chink
Published: April 2014

In the first phase of the global financial crisis, rising inflation was a major concern for emerging East Asian central banks. Coupled with a slowing US economy, regional central banks faced a monetary policy dilemma of either addressing higher inflation or supporting moderate growth. Higher food and fuel prices were the major drivers of headline inflation. Their causes, however, were a confluence of mutually reinforcing cyclical and structural factors. Understandably, different economies faced a different balance of risks between price stability and growth; but to attribute the inflation to supply shocks alone was misleading. This was unsettling given that inflation and inflation expectations were on the rise, and without much credibility, the reluctance of many central banks to raise interest rates risked repeating the mistake the advanced economies made in the 1970s. Without credibility, inflation expectations are unlikely to be well anchored. To gain credibility, a central bank must ‘walk‐the‐talk’, and understandably it must have the autonomy to do so.
Export survival pattern and its determinants: an empirical study ofChinese manufacturing firms
Authors: Fu Dahai , Wu Yanrui
Published: April 2014

While empirical studies of export entry have proliferated, less attention has been devoted to the study of export survival in foreign markets. This paper explores the patterns and determinants of export survival using data onChinese manufacturing firms for the period 1998–2007. The analytical methods used include non‐parametric techniques and the estimation of a discrete‐time duration model. Our results show the high probability of exit of exporters at the start of the period. We also find that large, highly productive and more export‐oriented firms are more likely to export for a longer period. In addition, foreign ownership is found to be an important determinant of export survival, while state ownership increases the risk of export failure.
ASEAN‐5 bond market development: Where does it stand? Where is it going?
Authors: Felman Joshua , Gray Simon , Goswami Mangal , Jobst Andreas A. , Pradhan Mahmood , Peiris Shanaka , Seneviratne Dulani
Published: April 2014

Since the late 1990s' Asian crisis, ASEAN‐5 countries have expended considerable effort in developing their bond markets. However, the size of these markets relative to GDP has hardly changed. Can we explain this? And does it mean that domestic markets have not, in fact, developed? The article argues that bond market growth has been held back by a sharp fall in business investment, which has left firms with little need for bond borrowing. Even so, markets have developed in other ways, to such an extent that substantial amounts of foreign portfolio investment have begun to flow into ASEAN‐5 bonds. These developments have important ramifications. With the investor base growing and infrastructure investment likely to rise, ASEAN‐5 bond markets could expand rapidly, holding out the prospect that the region could finally achieve ‘twin engine’ financial systems in the near future.
The challenges of health financing in five South Pacific countries
Authors: Anderson Ian , Ivatts Susan , Somanathan Aparnaa , Rolfe Benjamin
Published: April 2014

Health is a central development issue. Arrangements for health financing also have important implications for national and household budgets and broader macroeconomic conditions. The latest evidence from Fiji, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu shows these five South Pacific countries have substantial—and changing—health challenges, especially given rapid population growth and the rise of non‐communicable diseases. Yet each country faces important constraints to expanding public expenditure on health. Several options for obtaining better health outcomes from health expenditure are canvassed; improving technical and allocative efficiency is the most urgent, affordable, and practical option. An agenda for action is provided.
Triple‐incision laparoscopic distal gastrectomy for the resection of gastric cancer: Comparison with conventional laparoscopy‐assisted distal gastrectomy
Authors: Usui Shinsuke , Tashiro Masaki , Haruki Shigeo , Matsumoto Akiyo
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Reduced port surgery and single‐port surgery are currently in the spotlight as next‐generation, minimally invasive surgical techniques. We performed a triple‐incision laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (TIL‐DG) for gastric cancer as a reduced port surgery.

Method

A total of 76 patients underwent a TIL‐DG. A D1+ or D2 lymph node dissection was performed, and the Roux‐en‐Y method was used for reconstruction. The short‐term patient outcomes of the TIL‐DG group were compared with those of the conventional laparoscopy‐assisted distal gastrectomy group (59 cases) to evaluate the feasibility of TIL‐DG.

Results

No significant differences were observed between the TIL‐DG group and the laparoscopy‐assisted distal gastrectomy group in terms of mean operative time, blood loss, and the length of the postoperative hospital stay. The mean number of retrieved regional lymph nodes in the TIL‐DG group was slightly higher than that in the laparoscopy‐assisted distal gastrectomy group.

Conclusion

A triple‐incision laparoscopic distal gastrectomy is a feasible and safe procedure.
Validation of ultrasonography in detecting structural disease of the urogenital tract of the koala, Phascolarctos cinereus
Authors: Marschner C , Flanagan C , Higgins DP , Krockenberger MB
Published: April 2014

A retrospective review of case records of ultrasonography and necropsy outcomes of 62 koalas was used to investigate the accuracy of ultrasonography in assessing koala urogenital tract structural disease at the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital. The results showed high concordance, supporting ultrasonography as an effective tool for evaluating structural disease of the koala urogenital tract, most commonly seen with chlamydiosis. The study also illustrates the advances benefiting animal welfare that can be made by wildlife carer groups through using a scientific, evidence‐based approach.
Complications of the angularis oris axial pattern buccal flap for reconstruction of palatine defects in two dogs
Authors: Cook DA , Thomson MJ
Published: April 2014

Case report

Complications associated with surgical reconstruction of hard palate defects with a buccal mucosal flap based on the angularis oris artery and vein in two dogs are described. Distal flap necrosis occurred in both cases, but the flaps were successfully salvaged by division of the original flap pedicle and rotation of the flap material into the remaining defect. Postoperative dysphagia was observed in both dogs until flap revision. Salvage of the intact distal portion of the flap following division of the direct artery and vein 14 days postoperatively is discussed.

Conclusion

The angularis oris axial pattern buccal flap is an option for reconstruction of large defects of the hard palate. Survival of the flap can be improved by removal of teeth likely to cause occlusal trauma to the flap's pedicle. In the event of distal flap necrosis, the repair may be salvaged by rotation of the remaining flap into the defect, following establishment of vascular supply from adjacent tissue.
Canine superficial bacterial pyoderma: evaluation of skin surface sampling methods and antimicrobial susceptibility of causalStaphylococcusisolates
Authors: Ravens PA , Vogelnest LJ , Ewen E , Bosward KL , Norris JM
Published: April 2014

Objective

To evaluate three easily performed methods of skin surface sampling for bacterial culture ofStaphylococcusisolates obtained from dogs with superficial bacterial pyoderma (SBP) presenting to two veterinary teaching hospitals in Sydney,Australia, and to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility of isolates.

Design

Prospective study of 27 dogs withSBP. Cytologically confirmedSBPlesions were sampled for bacterial culture using a dry cotton swab, a saline‐moistened cotton swab and a skin surface scraping. Isolates were identified by standard discriminatory phenotypic and biochemical analyses, and confirmed using matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionisation time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS). Susceptibilities to 14 antimicrobials were determined by disk diffusion and by detection of themecAgene usingPCR. Sampling methods were compared according to bacterial yield, antibiograms and bacterial phenotypic analysis. Location of causative bacteria was evaluated via 8‐mm punch skin biopsies using haematoxylin and eosin,Gram–Twort andGiemsa staining, and fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH).

Results

Staphylococcussp. were isolated from lesions in all dogs, eitherS. pseudintermedius(24 dogs) orS. schleiferi(3 dogs). Susceptibility was highest to cephalexin (96%) and amoxycillin clavulanate (96%). Methicillin resistance assessed bymecAreal‐timePCRand phenotypic oxacillin resistance was found in one dog (4.3%). Routine histology andFISHrevealed bacteria within superficial stratum corneum.

Conclusion

Staphylococcal isolates from canineSBPdemonstrated high susceptibility to common empirical antimicrobials. Histological techniques confirmed presence of bacteria at superficial sites, likely to be accessed by the sampling techniques. The three techniques afforded similar results and may be equally suitable for obtaining samples for culture.
Mass envenomation of a mare and foal by bees
Authors: Lewis N , Racklyeft DJ
Published: April 2014

Case report

The clinical course of toxic envenomation of a mare and her foal after an attack by a swarm of bees in the UpperHunterValley ofNewSouthWales is described.Early agitation and urticaria were followed by more severe systemic clinical signs within 18 h. There was severe, generalised angioedema, rhabdomyolysis, hypovolaemia, gastrointestinal stasis and renal injury. A particular feature in the mare was almost maniacal behaviour during the first 48 h. Clinical pathological examination showed evidence of haemoconcentration, intravascular haemolysis, thrombocytopenia, azotaemia, rhabdomyolysis and hypoproteinaemia. Symptomatic treatment was initiated using intravenous fluids, anti‐inflammatory drugs, histamine antagonists, analgesia and antibiotics. The foal responded within 12 h, but management of the mare was complicated by severe pain, generalised oedema, intrauterine haemorrhage, renal injury and later, recurrent fever. The most severe, acute effects of mass envenomation lasted for 3–4 days. Neither mare nor foal suffered any known lasting systemic effects of envenomation, although localised dermal necrosis resulted in white hairs at some sting sites and deformed ear tips in the foal.

Conclusion

Early recognition of clinical signs and treatment of toxic envenomation with an understanding of the physiological effects of hymenoptera venom can lead to a favourable outcome in horses receiving a non‐lethal dose. Further case reports of the treatment of affected horses are needed to expand knowledge of how best to approach this rare, but serious intoxication.
The geographical distribution and differentiation of Chinese beech forests and the association with Quercus
Authors: Shen Ze‐Hao , Fang Jing‐Yun , Chiu Ching‐An , Chen Tze‐Ying
Published: April 2014

Questions

How do Chinese beech forests differ in species composition and environmental requirements? What are the environmental determinants for the distribution of Chinese beech forests? What is the interspecific relationship among the Fagus species and with Quercus in the communities?

Location

The natural range of four Chinese Fagus species, including subtropical mainland China and Taiwan Island.

Methods

Beech forests were sampled in 28 mountains. Community clustering and canonical correspondence analysis was applied to visualize species composition differences of the community types, and divergent environmental requirements of different Fagus species. The niche overlap among different Fagus species and with different subgroups of Quercus was measured. Based on generalized linear models, hierarchical variation partitioning was applied to estimate the contributions of climatic and topographic variables to the spatial variation in the abundance of different Fagus and Quercus species.

Results

(1) Among the Chinese beech forests dominated by four Fagus species, F. engleriana communities and F. hayatae communities are closer in species composition, as are the F. lucida communities and F. longipetiolata communities. (2) F. longipetiolata has the weakest and F. engleriana the strongest tolerance to freezing. The mainland F. hayatae, F. lucida and the island F. hayatae communities differ prominently along a humidity gradient from dry to wet. The spatial variation of abundance of all Fagus species is primarily related to precipitation seasonality, while the distributions of Quercus species are more sensitive to topographic feature at local scale. (3) The niche overlaps among the Fagus species are low at community level. F. engleriana and F. lucida have higher dominances in the communities than F. hayatae and F. longipetiolata. Quercus species are common components of beech forests in mainland China, but only Quercus subgenus Cyclobalanopsis species occur in F. hayatae communities in Taiwan Island. Different Fagus species have different associations with Quercus species in subgenus Quercus or Cyclobalanopsis.

Conclusions

The distribution of beech forests in China is primarily related to the precipitation seasonality of the monsoon climate, and differentiated on both temperature and moisture gradients. Within species ranges, the presence of oak in the beech forest is significantly regulated by topography.
Predictors of self‐reported negative mood following a depressive mood induction procedure across previously depressed, currently anxious, and control individuals
Authors: Scherrer Martin C. , Dobson Keith S. , Quigley Leanne
Published: April 2014

Objectives

This study identified and examined a set of potential predictors of self‐reported negative mood following a depressive mood induction procedure (MIP) in a sample of previously depressed, clinically anxious, and control participants. The examined predictor variables were selected on the basis of previous research and theories of depression, and included symptoms of depression and anxiety, negative and positive affect, negative and positive automatic thoughts, dysfunctional beliefs, rumination, self‐concept, and occurrence and perceived unpleasantness of recent negative events.

Methods

The sample consisted of 33 previously depressed, 22 currently anxious, and 26 non‐clinical control participants, recruited from community sources. Participant group status was confirmed through structured diagnostic interviews. Participants completed the Velten negative self‐statement MIP as well as self‐report questionnaires of affective, cognitive, and psychosocial variables selected as potential predictors of mood change.

Results

Symptoms of anxiety were associated with increased self‐reported negative mood shift following the MIP in previously depressed participants, but not clinically anxious or control participants. Increased occurrence of recent negative events was a marginally significant predictor of negative mood shift for the previously depressed participants only. None of the other examined variables was significant predictors of MIP response for any of the participant groups.

Conclusions

These results identify factors that may increase susceptibility to negative mood states in previously depressed individuals, with implications for theory and prevention of relapse to depression. The findings also identify a number of affective, cognitive, and psychosocial variables that do not appear to influence mood change following a depressive MIP in previously depressed, currently anxious, and control individuals. Limitations of the study and directions for future research are discussed.

Practitioner points

Current anxiety symptomatology was a significant predictor and occurrence of recent negative events was a marginally significant predictor of greater negative mood shift following the depressive mood induction for previously depressed individuals.

None of the examined variables predicted change in mood following the depressive mood induction for currently anxious or control individuals.

These results suggest that anxiety symptoms and experience with negative events may increase risk for experiencing depressive mood states among individuals with a vulnerability to depression.

The generalizability of the present results to individuals with comorbid depression and anxiety is limited.

Future research employing appropriate statistical approaches for confirmatory research is needed to test and confirm the present results.
Children prefer to learn from mind‐readers
Authors: Kim Sunae , Harris Paul L.
Published: April 2014

Kim and Harris (, J. Cogn. Dev.) showed that children selectively learned from an informant who produced apparently magical outcomes as compared to another informant who produced only ordinary outcomes in the domain of everyday physics. In the present study, we tested children's ability to differentiate between and selectively learn from informants who displayed either an extraordinary or an ordinary ability in the domain of everyday psychology. Prior studies have shown that children come to appreciate what is ordinarily involved in knowing the private mental states of other people. Drawing on this research, we asked whether 3‐ to 4‐ and 5‐ to 6‐year‐old children preferentially learned from an informant who knew another person's mind via either an ordinary or an extraordinary form of communication. As compared to younger children, older children were more likely to learn from the extraordinary informant. Moreover, children's ability to differentiate between the two informants was a better predictor of their learning from the extraordinary informant than age. We discuss the findings in the light of prior work on selective learning, children's ideas about prayer and their understanding of impossibility.
The pharmacology of TRP channels
Authors: Holzer Peter , Izzo Angelo A
Published: April 2014

This themed issue of the British Journal of Pharmacology contains review and research articles on recent advances in transient receptor potential (TRP) channel pharmacology. The review articles, written by a panel of distinguished experts, address the rapid progress in TRP channel research in fields as diverse as oncology, urology, dermatology, migraine, inflammation and pain. These reviews are complemented by original research reports focusing, among others, on the emerging roles of TRPV1 in osteoporosis and cystitis and on evodiamine as a lead structure for the development of potent TRPV1 agonists/desensitizers. Other papers highlight the differences in TRPV3 pharmacology between recombinant and native systems, the mechanisms of TRPM3 activation/inhibition and TRPP2 as a target of naringenin, a dietary flavonoid with anticancer actions. New therapeutic opportunities in pain may arise from the strategy to combine TRP channel and cell membrane impermeant sodium channel blockers to inhibit sensory nerve activity.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on the pharmacology of TRP channels. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue‐10
Oral hygiene behaviors and caries experience in Northwest PRECEDENT patients
Authors: Rothen Marilynn , Cunha‐Cruz Joana , Zhou Lingmei , Mancl Lloyd , Jones Jackie S. , Berg Joel ,   the Northwest PRECEDENT network
Published: April 2014

Objectives

To investigate the association between oral hygiene behaviors (toothbrushing, water rinsing after brushing, interproximal cleaning, and adjunctive use of fluoride products) and recent caries (past 24 months) in a random sample of patients in Northwest PRECEDENT practices.

Methods

Practitioner‐members of Northwest PRECEDENT, a dental practice‐based research network, conducted a longitudinal study on caries risk assessment. At baseline, patients completed a questionnaire on oral self‐care, snacking, health, and socio‐demographics. A dental examination recorded readily visible heavy plaque and decayed, missing, and filled teeth; chart review captured new caries and treatments in the previous 24 months. Bivariate and multiple generalized estimating equations (GEE) log‐linear regression models stratified by age‐groups were used to relate oral hygiene behaviors to the primary outcome of mean dental caries in the past 24 months on data from 1400 patients in 63 practices. The primary exposure of interest was fluoride toothbrushing frequency.

Results

Fluoride toothbrushing once per day or twice or more per day by patients 9–17 was significantly associated with a 50% lower mean caries rate compared with fluoride toothbrushing less than once per day, after adjustment for covariates [rate ratios (RR) = 0.5; 95% confidence intervals (CI) = 0.3–0.8]. After adjustment, for patients 18–64, fluoride toothbrushing two or more times per day was significantly associated with a 40% lower recent mean caries rate (RR = 0.6; 95% CI = 0.4–0.9); in patients 65+, twice a day or more fluoride toothbrushing was not associated with lower caries rates (RR = 1.1; 95% CI = 0.7–1.8). Of the other oral hygiene variables, after adjustment, patients 18–64 who rinsed with water after brushing had a 40% lower mean caries rate compared with no rinsing (RR = 0.6; 95% CI = 0.4–0.9) and the presence of readily visible heavy plaque was significantly associated with an increase in the mean caries rate for patients 18–64 (RR = 1.6; 95% CI = 1.2–2.2) and 65+ (RR = 2.5; 95% CI = 1.8–3.5).

Conclusions

In the present study, the frequency of fluoride toothbrushing and the presence of readily visible heavy plaque were the factors most strongly associated with mean caries rate. In young patients with permanent dentition, the daily application of fluoride toothpaste appears more important than emphasis on thorough plaque removal. While for adults, the protective effect of twice daily fluoride toothbrushing disappears with advancing age and the presence of readily visible heavy plaque becomes increasingly associated with caries risk.
T cell‐mediated induction of thymic stromal lymphopoietin in differentiated human primary bronchial epithelial cells
Authors: Hui C. C. K. , Murphy D. M. , Neighbour H. , Al‐Sayegh M. , O'Byrne S. , Thong B. , Denburg J. A. , Larché M.
Published: April 2014

Background

Inhaled peptide challenge has been shown to induce T cell‐mediated, isolated late asthmatic reaction (LAR), characterized by recruitment of CD4+ T cells and increased levels of thymus and activation‐regulated chemokine (TARC; CCL17). Epithelial‐derived thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) has been shown to modulate dendritic cell function to promote TH2 responses via CCL17 production.

Objectives

To elucidate the mechanisms involved in allergen‐specific T cell‐induced LAR and recruitment of CD4+ T cells by examining the effects of T cell‐derived factors on the induction of TSLP in primary bronchial epithelial cells (PBEC).

Methods

PBEC grown at air–liquid interface from healthy individuals and patients with asthma were stimulated with double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) or supernatants from activated allergen‐specific T cells. TSLP was measured in PBEC culture supernatants. Neutralizing antibodies and signalling inhibitors were used to examine the mechanisms responsible for the induction of epithelial‐derived TSLP. The functional activity of PBEC‐derived TSLP was measured using a bioassay involving the induction of CCL17 production from monocyte‐derived dendritic cells (moDC).

Results

Both dsRNA and allergen‐specific T cells induced enhanced TSLP secretion from asthmatic PBEC compared to healthy PBEC. Activated PBEC culture supernatant induced TSLP‐dependent CCL17 production from moDC in a manner related to clinical asthmatic status. IL‐1β, IL‐6, and CXCL8, rather than TH2 cytokines (IL‐4/5/13), appeared to be the principle mediators of allergen‐specific T cell‐dependent induction of epithelial‐derived TSLP, which was regulated by the MEK, MAPK, and NFκB pathways.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

Our data reveal a novel effect of allergen‐specific T cells as a positive regulator of TSLP production by epithelial cells, suggesting T cell–airway epithelium interactions that may lead to maintenance and amplification of allergic inflammation. TSLP is currently a candidate for therapeutic intervention in asthma, but the factors that drive TSLP expression (T cell‐derived factors) may be equally relevant in the treatment of allergic inflammation.
Environmental risk factors related to the incidence of wheeze and asthma in adolescence
Authors: Hedman L. , Andersson M. , Bjerg A. , Forsberg B. , Lundbäck B. , Rönmark E.
Published: April 2014

Background

Asthma is common among adolescents, but there are few population‐based studies on the risk factors for incident asthma and wheeze at this age group.

Objective

To study risk factors for incident asthma and wheeze in adolescence.

Method

Within the Obstructive Lung Disease In Northern Sweden (OLIN) studies, a cohort of 3430 school children (age 7–8 year) was recruited in 1996. In the present study, this cohort was followed from age 12–19 year. At baseline (age 12 year), 3151 participated and skin prick tests (SPT) were performed. The cohort was resurveyed annually, and risk factors for the cumulative incidence of asthma and wheeze from age 12–19 year were analysed using multivariate Cox regression.

Results

Female sex (wheeze: HR 1.4 95%CI 1.2–1.6; asthma: HR 1.8 95%CI 1.2–2.5) and a positive SPT to cat, dog or horse at baseline (wheeze: HR 1.6 95%CI 1.2–2.1; asthma: HR 2.3 95%CI 1.4–4.0) were significantly associated with the cumulative incidence of wheeze and asthma. Increasing numbers of siblings were inversely related to the incidence of wheeze (HR 0.9 95%CI 0.8–0.97) and asthma (HR 0.8 95%CI 0.7–0.97). Parental asthma was related to the incidence of asthma (HR 1.8 95%CI 1.2–2.6) while ever smoking (HR 2.0 95%CI 1.6–2.4) and house dampness (HR 1.3 95%CI 1.1–1.6) were risk factors for the incidence of wheeze. Maternal ETS exposure increased the risk of incident asthma in non‐sensitized subjects (HR 1.9 95%CI 1.0–3.7).

Conclusion and clinical relevance

Several environmental risk factors related to the incidence of asthma and wheeze in adolescence were identified and may be possible targets for intervention and prevention.
Therapeutic granulocyte and monocyte apheresis (GMA) for treatment refractory sarcoidosis: a pilot study of clinical effects and possible mechanisms of action
Authors: Olsen H H , Muratov V , Cederlund K , Lundahl J , Eklund A , Grunewald J
Published: April 2014

Sarcoidosis is a systemic, inflammatory disorder, which in a proportion of patients runs a chronic progressive course despite immunosuppressive treatment. Therapeutic granulocyte and monocyte apheresis (GMA) has been shown to be an effective treatment option for other systemic inflammatory disorders, but has not yet been investigated in sarcoidosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the response to GMA in sarcoidosis. Seven patients with sarcoidosis refractory to standard immunosuppressive therapy received 10 GMA sessions. All patients underwent chest X-ray, spirometry, a Chronic Respiratory Disease Questionnaire (CRQ-SAS), blood tests and bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) before treatment and at 2–4 weeks and 3 months (except bronchoscopy) after the last treatment session. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) cell differential counts were recorded and T cells from blood and BALF were analysed for markers of activity, differentiation and T regulatory function. Compared to baseline, five of seven patients reported an improvement in dyspnoea score. In BALF there was an increase in the percentage of macrophages and a decrease in the percentage of lymphocytes and CD4+/FoxP3+T cells. Furthermore, the decrease in BALF CD4+/FoxP3+T cells correlated significantly with an improvement in dyspnoea score. In peripheral blood there was a statistically significant increase in the percentage of CD4+/CD27−T cells and a trend towards an initial increase in the percentage of CD4+/FoxP3+T cells, followed by a statistically significant decrease. The effects of GMA on regulatory T cells are consistent with those observed in other inflammatory disorders and could potentially translate into a clinical benefit.