bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying the predictability of behaviour: statistical approaches for the study of between‐individual variation in the within‐individual variance
Authors: Cleasby Ian R. , Nakagawa Shinichi , Schielzeth Holger
Published: October 2014

Many aspects of animal behaviour differ consistently between individuals, giving rise to the growing field of animal personality research. While between‐individual variation has long been of interest to biologists, the role of within‐individual variation has received less attention. Indeed, many models assume that the extent of within‐individual variation is the same across individuals despite the fact that individuals may often differ in their variability.

Recently, the importance of within‐individual variability or predictability has been recognized within the field of animal behaviour. However, there is a lack of a consensus on how best to quantify it. This situation, in turn, has led to the development of a variety of different methods aimed at assessing how variable or predictable different individuals are.

Here, we review the indices that have been proposed as proxies of individual predictability. We then introduce existing techniques called hierarchical generalized linear models (HGLMs) and double‐hierarchical generalized linear models (DHGLMs) as general tools for quantifying predictability. HGLMs and DHGLMs are extensions of random intercept mixed models that exploit the fact that variation in variances as well as variation in means can be modelled within a single overarching framework.

Explicit modelling of the within‐individual residual variation by (D)HGLMs makes more efficient use of the data, performs better on unbalanced data sets and captures more of the uncertainty involved in modelling within‐individual variation than other proposed indices. In addition, (D)HGLMs yield an estimator of population‐wide variation in predictability, which can serve as a standardized effect size for comparisons across traits and studies. We call this estimator CVP, the coefficient of variation in predictability.

The different methods described here and the standardized effect size CVPshould open new avenues for studying individuality in animal behaviour. Since sound understanding of individual variation is central to many studies in ecology and evolution, these methods have wide application both in the field of animal personality research and beyond.
Noradrenaline transmission reducing drugs may protect against a broad range of diseases.
Authors: Fitzgerald P. J.
Published: October 2014

1 A growing body of evidence suggests that the signalling molecule, noradrenaline (NA), plays a pathophysiological role in a broad range of psychiatric, neurological and peripheral disorders. Both preclinical and clinical data suggest that elevated NA signalling may be involved in the aetiology of major diseases such as depression, Alzheimer's disease and diabetes mellitus. 2 The molecular pathways by which NA may cause the manifestation of disease remain poorly understood, although they may include G protein‐coupled receptor modulation of the Ras/MAP kinase, Stat3 and PI3K pathways, among others. In both individual animals and humans, NA tone may be elevated largely due to genetics, but also because of the exposure to marked psychological stress or trauma, or other environmental factors. 3 As NA is involved in the ‘fight or flight’ response by the sympathetic nervous system, this transmitter may be elevated in a large number of organisms due to evolutionary selection of enhancing responses to immediate environmental dangers. Likewise, acetylcholine signalling by the parasympathetic (‘rest and digest’) nervous system may be relatively diminished. This putative autonomic imbalance may result in diminished engagement in homeostatic processes, resulting in the emergence and progression of a number of diseases throughout the body. 4 In this scenario, a large number of individuals may benefit from chronic use of pharmacological agents – such as clonidine, guanfacine, propranolol or prazosin – that diminish NA signalling throughout the body. If so, NA transmission lowering drugs may protect against a wide range of diseases.
Estimated Effect of an Integrated Approach to Suspected Deep Venous Thrombosis Using Limited‐compression Ultrasound
Authors: Poley Rachel A. , Newbigging Joseph L. , Sivilotti Marco L.A.
Published: October 2014

Objectives

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is both common and serious, yet the desire to never miss the diagnosis, coupled with the low specificity of D‐dimer testing, results in high imaging rates, return visits, and empirical anticoagulation. The objective of this study was to evaluate a new approach incorporating bedside limited‐compression ultrasound (LC US) by emergency physicians (EPs) into the workup strategy for DVT.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional observational study of emergency department (ED) patients with suspected DVT. Patients on anticoagulants; those with chronic DVT, leg cast, or amputation; or when the results of comprehensive imaging were already known were excluded. All patients were treated in the usual fashion based on the protocol in use at the center, including comprehensive imaging based on the modified Wells score and serum D‐dimer testing. Seventeen physicians were trained and performed LC US in all subjects. The authors identified a priori an alternate workup strategy in which DVT would be ruled out in “DVT unlikely” (Wells score < 2) patients if the LC US was negative and in “DVT likely” (Wells score ≥ 2) patients if both the LC US and the D‐dimer were negative. The criterion standard was based on comprehensive imaging interpreted by radiologists blinded to LC US findings and by structured medical record review at 6 months in patients without comprehensive imaging.

Results

A total of 227 patients were enrolled (47% DVT likely), of whom 24 had DVT. The LC US was positive in 27 cases (21 actually DVT positive), indeterminate in 28 (one DVT positive), and negative in 172 (two DVT positive). Of 130 patients deemed DVT negative by the new strategy, one had confirmed DVT (miss rate = 0.8%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.1% to 4.0%), but this patient had been misclassified by the treating physician as low risk by Wells criteria. The stand‐alone sensitivity and specificity of LC US were 91% (95% CI = 70% to 98%) and 97% (95% CI = 92% to 99%), respectively. Incorporating LC US into the diagnostic approach would have reduced the rate of comprehensive imaging from 70% to 43%, D‐dimer testing from 100% to 33%, and the mean time to diagnostic certainty by 5.0 hours and avoided 24 (11%) return visits for imaging and 10 (4.4%) cases of unnecessary anticoagulation. In 19% of cases, the treating and scanning physician disagreed whether the patient was DVT likely or DVT unlikely based on Wells score (κ = 0.62; 95% CI = 0.48 to 0.77).

Conclusions

Limited‐compression US holds promise as one component of the diagnostic approach to DVT, but should not be used as a stand‐alone test due to imperfect sensitivity. Tradeoffs in diagnostic efficiency for the sake of perfect sensitivity remain a difficult issue collectively in emergency medicine (EM), but need to be scrutinized carefully in light of the costs of overinvestigation, delays in diagnosis, and risks of empirical anticoagulation.
Placenta Growth Factor Induces Invasion and Activates p70 during Rapamycin Treatment in Trophoblast Cells
Authors: Knuth Allison , Liu Lawrence , Nielsen Halden , Merril Daniel , Torry Donald S. , Arroyo Juan A.
Published: October 2014

Problem

Aberrant trophoblast invasion has been associated with human intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and preeclampsia (PE). Our objective was to determine placenta growth factor (PlGF)‐mediated regulation of cell invasion in trophoblast cells with reduced mammalian target of Rapamycin (mTOR) signaling.

Method of study

First trimester SW 71 trophoblast cells were subjected to invasion assays with the following conditions: 10% FBS, 10% FBS with Rapamycin, and 10% FBS with Rapamycin and PlGF. mTOR siRNA was also done in these cells. Western blots were performed on cell lysates with antibodies against phospho‐ and total mTOR, 70‐kDa ribosomal protein kinase I (p70), 4EBP1, extracellular regulated kinase (ERK), and phosphatidylinositol‐3 kinase (AKT).

Results

Compared to controls, trophoblast cells showed: (i) a 33% decrease in invasion following Rapamycin treatment, (ii) protection from decreased invasion following Rapamycin and PlGF treatment, (iii) a 31% decrease in mTOR phosphorylation with Rapamycin, (iv) increased phosphorylation of p70 (43%) with Rapamycin and PlGF, and (v) a 76% decrease in invasion following mTOR depletion.

Conclusion

We conclude that first trimester trophoblast invasion is functionally decreased when phosphorylation of mTOR is prevented and this decrease is recovered with the addition of PlGF. Mechanistically, this recovery involves the phosphorylation of p70 independent of mTOR.
Comparative study of Poincaré plot analysis using short electroencephalogram signals during anaesthesia with spectral edge frequency 95 and bispectral index
Authors: Hayashi K. , Yamada T. , Sawa T.
Published: October 2014

The return or Poincaré plot is a non‐linear analytical approach in a two‐dimensional plane, where a timed signal is plotted against itself after a time delay. Its scatter pattern reflects the randomness and variability in the signals. Quantification of a Poincaré plot of the electroencephalogram has potential to determine anaesthesia depth. We quantified the degree of dispersion (i.e. standard deviation, SD) along the diagonal line of the electroencephalogram‐Poincaré plot (named as SD1/SD2), and compared SD1/SD2 values with spectral edge frequency 95 (SEF95) and bispectral index values. The regression analysis showed a tight linear regression equation with a coefficient of determination (R2) value of 0.904 (p < 0.0001) between the Poincaré index (SD1/SD2) and SEF95, and a moderate linear regression equation between SD1/SD2 and bispectral index (R2 = 0.346, p < 0.0001). Quantification of the Poincaré plot tightly correlates with SEF95, reflecting anaesthesia‐dependent changes in electroencephalogram oscillation.
The relationship between age and minimum alveolar concentration of sevoflurane for maintaining bispectral index below 50 in children
Authors: Tokuwaka J. , Satsumae T. , Mizutani T. , Yamada K. , Inomata S. , Tanaka M.
Published: October 2014

We evaluated the minimum alveolar concentration of sevoflurane required to maintain the bispectral index below 50 in children. We studied 55 children, divided into 1‐year‐old, 2‐ to 4‐year‐old and 5‐ to 9‐year‐old groups and used Dixon's up‐and‐down method and probit analysis. In the 1‐year‐old group, the bispectral index values remained above 50, with the end‐tidal sevoflurane concentration reaching 4.0% or higher. The minimum alveolar concentration of sevoflurane for maintaining the bispectral index below 50 was significantly higher in the 2‐ to 4‐year‐old group (2.33%, 95% CI 2.25–2.57) than in the 5‐ to 9‐year‐old group (2.10%, 95% CI 1.94–2.25; p = 0.005). We conclude that assessing the depth of anaesthesia using bispectral index is unreliable in children aged < 2 years anaesthetised with sevoflurane.
Time course and role of luteinizing hormone and follicle‐stimulating hormone in the expansion of the Leydig cell population at the time of puberty in the rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Verhagen I. , Ramaswamy S. , Teerds K. J. , Keijer J. , Plant T. M.
Published: October 2014

In higher primates, development of the adult population of Leydig cells has received little attention. Here, the emergence of 3β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD3B) positive cells in the testis of the rhesus monkey was examined during spontaneous puberty, and correlated with S‐phase labeling in the interstitium at this critical stage of development. In addition, the relative role of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) in initiating the pubertal expansion of Leydig cells was studied by precociously stimulating the juvenile testis in vivo with pulsatile 11‐day infusions of recombinant LH and FSH, either alone or in combination. At the time of castration, testes were immersion fixed in Bouin's, embedded in paraffin, and sectioned at 5 μm. Leydig cells/testis were enumerated using HSD3B as a Leydig cell marker. Leydig cell number per testis increased progressively during puberty to reach values in the adult approximately 10 fold greater than in early‐pubertal animals. The rise in cell number was associated with an increase in nuclear diameter. That the pubertal expansion of Leydig cell number was driven primarily by the increase in LH secretion at this stage of development was suggested by the finding that precocious stimulation of mid‐juvenile monkeys with LH, either alone or in combination with that of FSH, resulted in a 20–30 fold increase in the number of HSD3B‐positive cells. Interestingly, precocious FSH stimulation, alone, also resulted in appearance of Leydig cells as indicated by the occasional HSD3B‐positive cell in the interstitium. The nuclear diameter of these Leydig cells, however, was less than that of those generated in response to LH.
Surveillance vs. adjuvant therapy of clinical stage I testicular tumors – a review and the SWENOTECA experience
Authors: Cohn‐Cedermark G. , Stahl O. , Tandstad T. ,   SWENOTECA
Published: October 2014

Although clinical stage I (CS I) testicular cancer is highly curable, the optimal management is controversial. The aims of the Swedish and Norwegian Testicular Cancer Group (SWENOTECA) studies for CS I non‐seminoma (NS) and seminoma (S) have been to reduce treatment intensity while maintaining high survival rates, reduce the number of patients needing salvage treatment and implement patient autonomy with regard to adjuvant treatment. During 1998–2010 NS CSI patients with lymphovascular invasion (LVI) of the primary tumor (high risk) were recommended bleomycin, etoposide, cisplatin (BEP) × 1. During 2000–2006 S CS I patients had the option to choose surveillance or adjuvant radiotherapy (AR). In 2004, carboplatin × 1 (AUC7) was added as a third treatment option. In 2007 a new risk‐adapted treatment protocol for S CS I was initiated. Patients with two risk factors (tumor size > 4 cm, tumor growth in the rete testis) were recommended carboplatin × 1 and patients with 0–1 risk factor were recommended surveillance. All patients were provided with oral and written information of possible management options and could choose the other alternative. The relapse rate for NS CS I with BEP × 1 was 3.2% for high risk, and 1.6% for low‐risk patients. Five‐year cause‐specific survival was 100%. For S CS I‐patients treated before 2007, 14.3% on surveillance relapsed, 3.9% after carboplatin, and 0.8% after AR. Five‐year cause‐specific survival was 99.9%. For S CS I‐patients treated from 2007, a relapse rate <3% was confirmed for patients without risk factors. SWENOTECA considers BEP × 1 standard adjuvant treatment in NS CS I high‐risk patients. Low‐risk patients should have the opportunity to receive BEP × 1 following thorough information regarding pros and cons. For S CS I patients without risk factors, adjuvant treatment is not necessary. For patients with risk factors, patient autonomy should be respected.
Effect of omission of population‐based eye screening at age 6–9 months in the Netherlands
Authors: Sloot Frea , Sami Aya , Karaman Hatice , Benjamins Janine , Loudon Sjoukje E. , Raat Hein , Sjoerdsma Trijntje , Simonsz Huibert Jan
Published: October 2014

Purpose

To investigate omission of population‐based eye screening at age 6–9 months in the Netherlands.

Methods

Prospective population‐based consecutive birth cohort study was used. In two consecutive birth cohorts, children were eye screened at 1–2 and 3–4 months, but at general‐health screening at 6–9 months, the second cohort was not eye screened, unless anything conspicuous was noted or in case of positive family history. Data were collected from screening records and anonymous questionnaires. Semi‐structured daylong observations were made of physicians examining children aged 0–4 years, including children from the cohorts, by two orthoptic students.

Results

58 of 6059 children (0.96%), in the screened, and 48 of 5482 children (0.88%) in the unscreened group were referred to orthoptist or ophthalmologist, mostly for observed strabismus. Amblyopia, all combined with strabismus, was diagnosed in ten screened (0.17%) versus six unscreened children (0.11%). Most physicians found preverbal examinations and decisions to refer difficult. The observations by orthoptic students revealed that cover test, pupillary reflexes, pursuit movements and eye motility were frequently performed inadequately, contrary to the Hirschberg test, at this age.

Conclusion

The screened and unscreened group differed little regarding the number of children referred and found to have amblyopia. Referral was mostly based on observed strabismus.
The Restoration Methodology for Valuing Goodwill
Authors: Osborn Debra
Published: October 2014

A method is proposed by which the goodwill of a business may be valued whenever the conventional accounting method is not available. This ‘restoration’ methodology involves using a combined cost and income approach to value the benefits a hypothetical purchaser of an operating business obtains, by reference to the costs, delays and risks it avoids, by acquiring the operating business rather than the business's identifiable assets alone. Such a value approximates that of the goodwill of the business. To provide some guidance as to how the restoration methodology might be used in a real situation, the actual sale of an interest in the Gove bauxite and alumina joint venture business is considered, where the existence and value of the business's goodwill was a factor in determining whether land‐rich stamp duty was payable in respect of the transaction. When the benefits gained by the purchaser of the Gove business are identified by reference to the costs, delays and risks it avoided by purchasing the business rather than the assets, it is not difficult to understand why such a sophisticated purchaser paid (and a pre‐empted purchaser was prepared to pay) an amount equal to or greater than the value of the business's identifiable assets in order to obtain those benefits.
The Impact of the Disclosure of Non‐GAAP Earnings in Australian Annual Reports on Non‐Sophisticated Users
Authors: Johnson Amber , Percy Majella , Stevenson‐Clarke Peta , Cameron Robyn
Published: October 2014

The disclosure of non‐GAAP earnings in Australian annual reports has risen steadily in recent years. These non‐statutory earnings measures are generally disclosed in the unaudited section of the annual report and are not consistent with statutory profit as defined under generally accepted Australian accounting standards (GAAP). Recent research conducted in the United States (US) has provided evidence that non‐sophisticated investor decisions are influenced by the presence and prominence of non‐GAAP earnings information. Further evidence suggests that investor perception changed after non‐GAAP earnings disclosures became subject to regulation in that jurisdiction. Australia has high investor participation rates by international standards, including investors operating self‐managed superannuation funds, resulting in a significant number of active individual investors. This study employs an experimental design to investigate the impact on non‐sophisticated investors of the reporting of non‐GAAP earnings information in addition to GAAP earnings information in Australian annual reports. The results of this study show a positive association between the prominent disclosure of non‐GAAP earnings information and non‐sophisticated investor reliance on this information. These results provide important evidence to Australian regulators as these narrative disclosures are not subject to regulation, in contrast to the US where mandatory regulation has been in place since 2003.
How Actuarial Assumptions Affect Defined Benefit Obligations under International Financial Reporting Standards? Evidence from Korea
Authors: Cho Kwanghee , Kim YoungJun , Yoon Sang Kyoo
Published: October 2014

This paper examines how actuarial assumptions affect defined benefit obligations (DBOs) under the newly adopted Korean International Financial Reporting Standards (K‐IFRS) with the help of evaluation reports provided by the pension provider. The results show that there is no significant discrepancy between the DBOs estimated on a going concern basis under K‐IFRS, and the retirement benefits estimated on a non‐going concern basis under traditional K‐GAAP. Also, the rate of salary increase, average salary and average years of service have a statistically significant positive impact on DBOs, irrespective of the adoption of K‐IFRS.
Results of a prospective multicentre myeloablative double‐unit cord blood transplantation trial in adult patients with acute leukaemia and myelodysplasia
Authors: Barker Juliet N. , Fei Mingwei , Karanes Chatchada , Horwitz Mitchell , Devine Steven , Kindwall‐Keller Tamila L. , Holter Jennifer , Adams Alexia , Logan Brent , Navarro Willis H. , Riches Marcie ,   the RCI BMT 05‐DCB Protocol Team
Published: October 2014

Double‐unit cord blood (CB) grafts may improve engraftment and relapse risk in adults with haematological malignancies. We performed a prospective high‐dose myeloablative double‐unit CB transplantation (CBT) trial in adults with high‐risk acute leukaemia or myelodysplasia (MDS) between 2007 and 2011. The primary aim was to establish the 1‐year overall survival in a multi‐centre setting. Fifty‐six patients (31 acute myeloid leukaemia, 19 acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, 4 other acute leukaemias, 2 myelodysplastic syndrome [MDS]) were transplanted at 10 centres. The median infused total nucleated cell doses were 2·62 (larger unit) and 2·02 (smaller unit) x 107/kg. The cumulative incidence of day 100 neutrophil engraftment was 89% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 80–96). Day 180 grade II‐IV acute graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) incidence was 64% (95%CI: 51–76) and 36% (95%CI: 24–49) of patients had chronic GVHD by 3‐years. At 3‐years post‐transplant, the transplant‐related mortality (TRM) was 39% (95%CI: 26–52), and the 3‐year relapse incidence was 11% (95%CI: 4–21). With a median 37‐month (range 23–71) follow‐up of survivors, the 3‐year disease‐free survival was 50% (95%CI: 37–63). Double‐unit CBT is a viable alternative therapy for high‐risk acute leukaemia/ MDS in patients lacking a matched unrelated donor. This is especially important for minority patients. The relapse incidence was low but strategies to ameliorate TRM are needed.
Reporting the characteristics of the policy context for population‐level alcohol interventions: A proposed ‘Transparent Reporting of Alcohol Intervention ContExts’ (TRAICE) checklist
Authors: Holmes John , Meier Petra S. , Booth Andrew , Brennan Alan
Published: October 2014

Issues

Effectiveness of alcohol policy interventions varies across times and places. The circumstances under which effective polices can be successfully transferred between contexts are typically unexplored with little attention given to developing reporting requirements that would facilitate systematic investigation.

Approach

Using purposive sampling and expert elicitation methods, we identified context‐related factors impacting on the effectiveness of population‐level alcohol policies. We then drew on previous characterisations of alcohol policy contexts and methodological‐reporting checklists to design a new checklist for reporting contextual information in evaluation studies.

Key Findings

Six context factor domains were identified: (i) baseline alcohol consumption, norms and harm rates; (ii) baseline affordability and availability; (iii) social, microeconomic and demographic contexts; (iv) macroeconomic context; (v) market context; and (vi) wider policy, political and media context. The checklist specifies information, typically available in national or international reports, to be reported in each domain.

Implications

The checklist can facilitate evidence synthesis by providing: (i) a mechanism for systematic and more consistent reporting of contextual data for meta‐regression and realist evaluations; (ii) information for policy‐makers on differences between their context and contexts of evaluations; and (iii) an evidence base for adjusting prospective policy simulation models to account for policy context.

Conclusions

Our proposed checklist provides a tool for gaining better understanding of the influence of policy context on intervention effectiveness. Further work is required to rationalise and aggregate checklists across interventions types to make such checklists practical for use by journals and to improve reporting of important qualitative contextual data. [Holmes J, Meier PS, Booth A, Brennan A. Reporting the characteristics of the policy context for population‐level alcohol interventions: A proposed ‘Transparent Reporting of Alcohol Intervention ContExts’ (TRAICE) checklist. Drug Alcohol Rev 2014;33:596–603]
Urticaria
Authors: Wedi Bettina , Wieczorek Dorothea , Raap Ulrike , Kapp Alexander
Published: October 2014

Urticaria is a very common skin disease which was already described in the ancient world. Questions still remain about its pathogenesis and management remain open. Compared to other common skin diseases, the published evidence is rather low. The clinical symptoms with pruritic transient wheals and/or angioedema are caused by mediators (particularly histamine) released by activated mast cells and basophils. The mechanism of target cell activation has not been clarified in detail for most urticaria subtypes.

Different urticaria subtypes should be distinguished. Spontaneous forms are more common than inducible forms. Chronic urticaria and urticaria in certain age groups (children, pregnancy) can be difficult to manage. Therefore, international consensus resulting in the regular update of urticaria guidelines can be very helpful. Currently, these updated guidelines include a three‐step treatment algorithm for chronic spontaneous urticaria. Only the first step of this algorithm, second generation H1‐antihistamine in standard dose, utilized approved drugs. However after omalizumab was established as a third line choice in the guideline algorithm, it has approved in many countries for chronic spontaneous urticaria without response to H1‐antihistamines. The exact mechanism of action of omalizumab in urticaria has not been fully elucidated. Unrevealing this mechanism might result in a deeper understanding of urticaria pathogenesis and the development of further therapeutic strategies.
Nrf2 induces fibroblast growth factor 21 in diabetic mice
Authors: Furusawa Yuki , Uruno Akira , Yagishita Yoko , Higashi Chika , Yamamoto Masayuki
Published: October 2014

Transcription factor Nrf2 (nuclear factor E2‐related factor 2) is a master regulator of cellular defense system against oxidative and electrophilic stresses and is negatively regulated by an adaptor protein Keap1 (Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1). Nrf2 also plays a pivotal role in metabolic homeostasis, such as lipid metabolism and energy expenditure as well as redox homeostasis. FGF21 (fibroblast growth factor 21) is known as a key mediator of glucose and lipid metabolism. Here, we found that Nrf2 is involved in FGF21 regulation in diabetic model mice. Nrf2 induction by genetic knockdown of Keap1 increased plasma FGF21 level and hepatic Fgf21 expression in diabetic db/db mice and high‐calorie‐diet‐induced obesity model mice. Administration of CDDO‐Im (oleanolic triterpenoid 1‐[2‐cyano‐3,12‐dioxooleane‐1, 9(11)‐dien‐28‐oyl] imidazole), a potent Nrf2 inducer, up‐regulated plasma FGF21 level and hepatic Fgf21 expression in db/db mice, whereas CDDO‐Im did not induce FGF21 in db/db mice with Nrf2 knockout background. Furthermore, in Keap1‐knockdown db/db mice, Nrf2 enhanced expression of glucose‐ and lipid‐metabolism‐related genes in adipose tissues, which improved plasma lipid profiles. These results show that Nrf2 positively regulates FGF21 expression in diabetic mice. We propose that FGF21 is a potential efficacy biomarker that mediates metabolic regulation by the Keap1–Nrf2 system.
Down‐regulation of connexin43 and connexin32 in keratocystic odontogenic tumours: potential association with clinical features
Authors: Zhong Wen‐Qun , Chen Gang , Zhang Wei , Xiong Xue‐Peng , Ren Jian‐Gang , Zhao Yi , Liu Bing , Zhao Yi‐Fang
Published: October 2014

Aims

The objective of this study was to explore the potential involvement of connexin43 (Cx43) and connexin32 (Cx32), two vital members of the connexin families, in the pathogenesis of keratocystic odontogenic tumours (KCOT).

Methods and results

The expression levels of Cx43 and Cx32 in human KCOT and normal oral mucosa (OM) tissues were measured using immunohistochemistry and real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The relationship between Cx43 and Cx32 expression and markers of proliferation [proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), cyclin D1], anti‐apoptosis [B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2)] and autophagy [light chain 3 (LC3), Sequestosome 1 p62 (p62)] was then investigated in the KCOT samples. The results showed that Cx43 and Cx32 expression was down‐regulated significantly in KCOT samples relative to OM samples. Meanwhile, the expression levels of Cx43 and Cx32 were correlated negatively with the expression levels of PCNA, cyclin D1, Bcl‐2, LC3 and p62, as confirmed further by double‐labelling immunofluorescence analyses.

Conclusions

This study reveals for the first time that Cx43 and Cx32 are down‐regulated in KCOT and suggests an association with growth regulation, anti‐apoptosis and autophagy in KCOT.
Ceria (La3+, Sr2+)/Carbonates Nanocomposite Electrolytes with High Electrical Conductivity for Low‐Temperature SOFCs
Authors: Jaiswal Nandini , Kumar Devendra , Parkash Om , Upadhyay Shail
Published: October 2014

A series of ceria‐based nanocomposites consisting of lanthanum and strontium codoped ceria with composition Ce0.89La0.07Sr0.04O1.925 (CL7S4) and eutectic mixture of carbonates Li2CO3‐Na2CO3 (LNCO) have been prepared by mixing nanosize powders of CL7S4 and LNCO. Samples have been characterized using differential thermal analysis, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy combined with energy‐dispersive spectroscopy, thermal expansion, and impedance spectroscopy. A sharp increase in ionic conductivity is observed in all the composite specimens corresponding to superionic transition. Sample containing 35 wt% of carbonate shows the maximum conductivity (2.56 × 10−1 S/cm at 500°C) with activation energy of conduction, Ea 0.23 eV.
Comparative Capitalism without Capitalism, and Production without Workers: The Limits and Possibilities of Contemporary Institutional Analysis
Authors: Wood Geoffrey , Dibben Pauline , Ogden Stuart
Published: October 2014

The aim of this paper is to consider the extent to which the comparative capitalism literature fully reflects the available empirical evidence in its attempts to model different versions of capitalism and, in particular, whether it adequately captures the roles of diverse stakeholders within the capitalist system. In doing so, particular attention is accorded to the varieties of capitalism literature, business systems theory and regulation theory. In addition, there is reflection in the paper on whether any strand of the literature is able to deal effectively with the recent economic crisis and systemic change. It is argued that more attention needs to be devoted to exploring the structural causes of change and the marginalization of the interests of key social groupings, most notably workers, from the process of institutional redesign.
The evolution of the reproductive system of Urodasys (Gastrotricha: Macrodasyida)
Authors: Atherton Sarah , Hochberg Rick
Published: October 2014

Macrodasyidan gastrotrichs are hermaphrodites with complex reproductive organs that function in sperm transfer and receipt, but homology among the organs of members of different clades remains undetermined, as does a broader understanding of evolutionary trends in the reproductive biology of macrodasyidans. In this study, we investigate the evolution of reproduction in Urodasys, a clade of 15 macrodasyidan species that shows variability in reproductive mode (hermaphroditic and parthenogenetic) and sexual anatomy. We use partial 18S rDNA sequence data from 30 specimens representing five described species, sequence data from one undescribed species in GenBank, and sequence data from a potentially new species found at Capron Shoal, Florida, to gain insight into the phylogeny of the clade and clarify evolutionary trends in reproductive modality. Based on a total of 33 specimens of seven potential species, we found that members of Urodasys can be separated into three clades reflective of different reproductive modalities: Clade I, species with paired male and female gonads but without accessory sexual organs; Clade II, species with a single left testis, paired ova, and accessory organs including a sclerotic stylet; and Clade III, parthenogenetic species without testes or accessory organs. In addition, we find that the potentially new species from Florida can form spermatophores, a condition shared with another species in Clade I. Herein, we describe this novel spermatophore‐bearing species and discuss the significance of spermatophore formation in the genus.
Growth and condition of juvenile coho salmon Oncorhynchus kisutch relate positively to species richness of trophically transmitted parasites
Authors: Losee J. P. , Fisher J. , Teel D. J. , Baldwin R. E. , Marcogliese D. J. , Jacobson K. C.
Published: October 2014

The aims of this study were first, to test the hypothesis that metrics of fish growth and condition relate positively to parasite species richness (SR) in a salmonid host; second, to identify whether SR differs as a function of host origin; third, to identify whether acquisition of parasites through marine v. freshwater trophic interactions was related to growth and condition of juvenile salmonids. To evaluate these questions, species diversity of trophically transmitted parasites in juvenile coho salmon Oncorhynchus kisutch collected off the coast of the Oregon and Washington states, U.S.A. in June 2002 and 2004 were analysed. Fish infected with three or more parasite species scored highest in metrics of growth and condition. Fish originating from the Columbia River basin had lower SR than those from the Oregon coast, Washington coast and Puget Sound, WA. Parasites obtained through freshwater or marine trophic interactions were equally important in the relationship between SR and ocean growth and condition of juvenile O. kisutch salmon.
The Effects of Health Consciousness and Familiarity with DTCA on Perceptions of Dietary Supplements
Authors: ROYNE MARLA B. , FOX ALEXA K. , DEITZ GEORGE D. , GIBSON TYLER
Published: October 2014

This study examines the effect of consumer health‐consciousness on attitude toward dietary supplements as well as consumer perceptions of supplement risks and benefits when compared to their prescription drug counterparts. The authors investigate three conditions (insomnia, depression, and high cholesterol) with both a prescription drug and dietary supplement regimen available. Results indicate that health consciousness is positively related to attitudes toward dietary supplements, which is positively related to perceived supplement benefits, but negatively associated with perceived supplement risks. Mediating effects of attitudes toward dietary supplements are also found. Moreover, familiarity with direct to consumer advertising (DTCA) moderates the relationship between health consciousness and attitude toward dietary supplements. Our findings suggest that knowledge may play a key role in attitude and perception formation and that both benefit and risk information about supplements should be provided to consumers so they can make informed decisions about their health.
Partially Edentulous Arches: A 5‐Year Survey of Patients Treated at the Fluminense Federal University Removable Prosthodontics Clinics in Brazil
Authors: de Souza Fernanda Nunes , de Siqueira Gomes Camila , Rodrigues Alexandra Ramiro Camacho , Tiossi Rodrigo , de Gouvêa Cresus Vinicius Depes , de Almeida Cristina Costa
Published: October 2014

Purpose

This study investigated the number and Kennedy Classification of the edentulous arches in patients treated at the Removable Partial Denture (RPD) Clinics of the Fluminense Federal University School of Dentistry (FO‐UFF) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 2005 to 2010.

Materials and Methods

A cross‐sectional retrospective survey was conducted on patient record charts to identify gender, age, number, and location of the edentulous arches, and Kennedy Class type.

Results

One hundred and forty‐six patients were analyzed for this study (96 [65.8%] women and 50 [34.2%] men). Two hundred and ninety‐two arches were analyzed: 74 arches (25%) were found with intact dentitions, 18 (6.1%) were edentulous arches, and 200 (68.8%) were partially edentulous arches. Ninety‐one patients (62.3%) needed oral rehabilitation with RPDs on one arch and 55 (37.7%) in both arches. One hundred and eight (53.2%) partially edentulous mandibles and 92 (46.8%) partially edentulous maxillae were found. Kennedy Class I was more frequent in the mandibular arch (58 patients; 29%) whereas Kennedy Class III was more frequent in the maxillary arch (40 patients; 20%). Patients aged between 51 and 60 years presented the highest percentage of partially edentulous arches (33.6%).

Conclusion

Mandibular Kennedy Class I and maxillary Kennedy Class III presented the highest frequency in patients treated at the FO‐UFF. These results are in agreement with previous studies that evaluated the different Kennedy classes in partially edentulous arches.
Physiological performance of quails that underwent dietary and pharmacological manipulation of cholesterol
Authors: Botelho G. G. , Falbo M. K. , Ost P. R. , Czekoski Z. M. , Raviolo A. E. , Giotto F. M. , Goldoni E. C. , Morais R. N.
Published: October 2014

The present work evaluated whether dietary and pharmacological interference on cholesterol synthesis were capable of inducing alterations in blood and yolk cholesterol levels and the secretion of corticosterone metabolites. Forty‐five 40‐day‐old quails were divided into three experimental groups: vegetal fat diet, 2% beef fat (tallow) diet and vegetal fat diet with simvastatin administration (3.13 mg/kg/day). During all experiments, the animal weights and food consumption were recorded and blood and faecal samples (days 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60), as well as eggs (days 30, 45 and 60), were collected. Analysis of serum and yolk cholesterol was performed and faecal corticosterone levels were measured. No differences were observed on blood cholesterol or faecal corticosterone between all treatments, despite a tendency of increased cholesterol in the group with the animal fat diet. However, quails submitted to an animal fat diet displayed an increase in yolk cholesterol at day 30 of the treatment and the egg yolks of quails treated with simvastatin exhibited a decrease in cholesterol content by the end of the treatment at 60 days. These results improved the knowledge regarding the physiology of quails and offered support to other studies concerning the consequences of the pharmacological treatment and the dietary manipulation of cholesterol levels.
A Retrospective Study of 1,098 Blood Samples with Anemia from Adult Cats: Frequency, Classification, and Association with Serum Creatinine Concentration
Authors: Furman E. , Leidinger E. , Hooijberg E.H. , Bauer N. , Beddies G. , Moritz A.
Published: October 2014

Background

Frequency and classification of anemia in terms of regeneration status and erythrocyte indices are not well described in cats.

Objective

To determine frequency and regenerative status of anemia in samples from adult cats, to assess the sensitivity and specificity of macrocytosis and hypochromasia for detecting regenerative anemia (RA), and to evaluate the association of anemia with increased serum creatinine concentration (SC).

Study Population

Laboratory records from 30,503 blood samples from cats (2003–2011).

Methods

Clinicopathologic data reviewed retrospectively. Anemia defined as hematocrit (Ht) ≤27%, red blood cell count (RBC) ≤5.5 × 106/μL and hemoglobin (Hb) ≤9.0 g/dL.RAdefined by manual absolute reticulocyte count >50 × 103/μL. Macrocytosis was defined as mean corpuscular volume (MCV) >55 fL and hypochromasia as mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) <31 g/dL. Cutoff for increased serum creatinine concentration was 1.6 mg/dL.

Results

Overall, 1,098 of 30,503 blood samples (3.6%) from cats fulfilled criteria for anemia, 633 of 1,098 (57.7%) classified as nonregenerative (NRA) and 465 of 1,098 (42.3%) as regenerative.RBC, Ht, and Hb were significantly lower in theRAcompared toNRAgroup (P < .05). Sensitivity and specificity of the combined highMCVand lowMCHCto detect samples withRAwere 19.5 and 90.7%.SCwas increased in 572 of the 1,098 anemic samples (52.1%) and in 11,121 of 29,405 of nonanemic samples (37.8%).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Majority of anemic samples were classified asNRA. Anemia was more severe in cats withRA. Erythrocyte indices were not sensitive indicators ofRA.
Use of Plasma Renin Activity to Monitor Mineralocorticoid Treatment in Dogs with Primary Hypoadrenocorticism: Desoxycorticosterone Versus Fludrocortisone
Authors: Baumstark M.E. , Nussberger J. , Boretti F.S. , Baumstark M.W. , Riond B. , Reusch C.E. , Sieber‐Ruckstuhl N.S.
Published: October 2014

Background

Measurement of plasma renin activity (PRA) is the gold standard for monitoring mineralocorticoid treatment in humans with primary hypoadrenocorticism (PH).

Objectives

To comparePRAin dogs with newly diagnosedPH, dogs with diseases mimickingPH, and healthy dogs, and evaluate measurement ofPRAto monitor therapeutic effects in dogs withPHtreated with different mineralocorticoids.

Animals

Eleven dogs with newly diagnosedPH(group 1), 10 dogs with diseases mimickingPH(group 2), 21 healthy dogs (group 3), 17 dogs with treatedPH(group 4).

Methods

In group 1,PRAwas measured before treatment and at different times after initiating treatment. In groups 2 and 3,PRAwas measured at initial presentation only. In group 4, no baselinePRAwas obtained butPRAwas measured once or every 1–6 months during treatment. Mineralocorticoid treatment consisted of fludrocortisone acetate (FC) or desoxycorticosterone pivalate (DOCP).

Results

Plasma renin activity before treatment was increased in dogs withPHcompared to normal dogs and dogs with diseases mimickingPHwith median activity of 27, 0.8, and 1.0 ng/mL/h, respectively. In dogs withPH,PRAdecreased and normalized with mineralocorticoid treatment usingDOCPbut not withFC. In dogs treated withDOCP,PRAwas lower than in dogs treated withFC. Plasma sodium concentrations were higher and potassium concentrations were lower withDOCPtreatment compared toFCtreatment.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Plasma renin activity is a reliable tool for monitoring mineralocorticoid treatment.DOCPtreatment more effectively suppressesPRAcompared toFCin dogs withPH.
PhaseIIEvaluation ofVDC‐1101 in Canine Cutaneous T‐Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Morges M.A. , Burton J.H. , Saba C.F. , Vail D.M. , Burgess K.E. , Thamm D.H.
Published: October 2014

Background

Canine cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL) is an uncommon disease for which efficacious therapies are lacking. The novel anticancer nucleotide prodrug VDC‐1101 (formerly known as GS‐9219) has shown efficacy in dogs with multicentric lymphoma. One of the observed adverse effects with this drug was a skin change characterized by hair loss, erythema, and pruritus, implying delivery of VDC‐1101 to the skin.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The primary study objective was to identify the objective response rate (ORR) to VDC‐1101 in canineCTCL; secondary objectives included characterization of progression‐free survival (PFS) and adverse events (AEs).

Animals

Twelve dogs with chemotherapy‐naïve or relapsed, histologically and immunohistochemically confirmedCTCL.

Methods

Dogs received VDC‐1101 as a 30‐minute IV infusion once every 21 days. Prednisone (1 mg/kg PO q48h) was administered concurrently.

Results

In 11 evaluable patients, responses included 1 complete response (CR), 4 partial responses (PR), 2 stable disease (SD), and 4 progressive disease for anORRof 45% and biologic response rate (CR/PR/SD) of 64%. The medianPFSwas 37.5 days (26 to >399 days), which includes 1 durable and ongoingCR(>1 year). Gastrointestinal and hematologicAEs were mild; no dogs developed grade 3 or 4AEs. Three dogs developed dermatopathies and 1 of these dogs was removed from the study as a result of thisAE.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

VDC‐1101 has activity against canineCTCLand could provide another treatment option in a disease process with a poor prognosis.
No evidence of facilitation collapse in the Tibetan plateau
Authors: Pugnaire Francisco I. , Zhang Lin , Li Ruicheng , Luo Tianxiang
Published: October 2014

Questions

The relative importance of facilitation under different environmental conditions has raised some recent controversy centred on predictions of the stress gradient hypothesis (SGH) for its apparent lack of predictive power under very stressful conditions. This criticism, however, is not widely shared nor fully supported by empirical data. We addressed whether changes in interaction intensity in plots under severe environmental stress determine an increase in facilitation and whether facilitation would expand the realized niche of some plant species.

Location

Four sites differing in elevation and environmental conditions along a N–S transect in the Central Tibetan Plateau, Qinghai Province, China.

Methods

We assessed plant interaction intensity between the cushion plant, Androsace tapete, and species growing inside its canopy. We recorded species and number of individuals in cushions and in gaps, and mass of the two most frequent species in each site.

Results

Interactions ranged from competition to facilitation, depending on environmental severity. Net interaction balance followed predictions of the SGH, from competition on the relatively more mesic sites to facilitation in the relatively more stressful sites. There were no hints of facilitation collapse even though our harsher sites posed extreme conditions for plant survival. The main limiting factor seems to be temperature, as interaction intensity responded most to this factor, rather than to elevation or rainfall.

Conclusions

Facilitation expanded the realized niche of some species, countering adverse environmental conditions. We found no collapse of facilitation under the most stressful conditions, even though some sites were at the edge of the distribution range for the cushion species.