bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of abnormal clones by the fluorescent aerolysin method in paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria and other marrow disorders
Authors: Agarwal R. , Chapple P. , Brown M. , Szer J. , Juneja S.
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Flow cytometry is the most sensitive and specific diagnostic modality for the assessment of clone size in paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) and other bone marrow failure states. In this study, we attempt to distinguish PNH from aplastic anaemia (AA) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) associated with PNH clones at diagnosis by clone size, clinical and laboratory features.

Methods

A total of 29 samples included 19 PNH cases and 10 AA/MDS cases with PNH clones. Flow cytometry was performed using fluorescent aerolysin (FLAER)‐based assay and comparison of clinical features, laboratory parameters and PNH clone size was carried out at diagnosis.

Results

The PNH clone size on granulocytes varied from 0.4% to 99.2% and correlated with the clone size on monocytes (r = 0.966; P < 0.001). Paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria clone size on granulocytes (median = 34.6%) and monocytes (median = 49.9%) was always larger than erythrocytes (median = 10.9%). The median clone size in PNH (median granulocytes = 74.9%, monocytes = 71.8%) was significantly greater than in AA/MDS associated with PNH clone (median granulocytes = 2.9%, monocytes = 6%). In PNH patients, a significant negative correlation was seen between PNH clone on monocytes and the haemoglobin concentration.

Conclusion

In our small study using the FLAER method, the clone size was >70% in majority of PNH cases. In other marrow disorders like AA/MDS, the clone size was usually <10%.
Reporting and grading of abnormal red blood cell morphology
Authors: Constantino B. T.
Published: April 2014

In spite of the continual standardization of test result formats, the improvements of laboratory technologies, publications of reference guidelines, and the advancements in hematology analyzers, the methods of reporting or grading abnormal red blood cell morphology still vary among laboratories everywhere. This article describes the methods or systems of reporting abnormal red cell morphology and the conditions associated with the abnormalities.
Britain's Wages Crisis—Is ‘Predistribution’ or ‘Redistribution’ the Way Forward?
Authors: LANSLEY STEWART
Published: April 2014

Is ‘predistribution’ as championed by Ed Miliband, or old fashioned ‘redistribution’ as adopted, if stealthily, by Labour from 1997, the best way to create greater equality? Some critics have argued that a strategy of predistribution—aimed at closing the income gap before the application of taxes and benefits—would not work and that it will be necessary to rely mainly on redistribution. This article examines the potential impact of weak and more radical predistribution‐style measures on one of the key drivers of inequality—‘wage compression’. It examines the potential of a mix of policies for raising the wage floor. It argues that reliance on traditional redistribution would face its own set of constraints and that creating a more equal distribution of the cake, before taxes and benefits, is a necessary condition for lowering the risk of continuing economic crisis.
The Civil Service Reform Plan One Year On, and the International Evidence
Authors: LODGE GUY
Published: April 2014

In July 2013 the UK's coalition government published “The Civil Service Reform Plan – One Year on”, reporting on progress against minister Frances Maude's objectives to shake up the civil service. This followed various reported disagreements between ministers and civil servants over policy implementation, and a research report commissioned by the government from think tank IPPR into lessons from overseas for civil service reform. This trio of short articles reviews the government's proposals from three perspectives: that of the lead author of the IPPR report, a former senior civil servant, and the chair of the House of Commons Public Administration Committee (PASC) which oversees the civil service. The authors take differing views on the proposals, which include introduction of ‘extended ministerial offices’, and greater control by ministers over choosing their civil servants. Should these be seen as useful next steps, worrying developments, and/or large and important enough to merit a Commission on the civil service, as PASC has suggested?
Clinical Comparison of the Hybrid Dynamic Compression Plate and the Castless Plate for Pancarpal Arthrodesis in 219 Dogs
Authors: Bristow Poppy C. , Meeson Richard L. , Thorne Rebecca M. , Butterworth Steven J. , Rutherford Scott , Renwick Alasdair I.C. , Wustefeld‐Janssens Brandan , Witte Philip G.K. , Woods Samantha , Parsons Kevin J. , Keeley Benjamin J. , Owen Martin R. , Li Alex , Arthurs Gareth I.
Published: April 2014

Objective

To describe and compare a large population of dogs that had pancarpal arthrodesis (PCA) using either a hybrid dynamic compression plate (HDCP) or a CastLess Plate (CLP).

Study Design

Multicenter, retrospective, cohort study.

Animals

Dogs (n = 240; 261 PCA).

Methods

Medical records (2000–2012) from 12 UK orthopedic centers were reviewed for dogs that had PCA to document signalment, diagnosis, arthrodesis method, and complication rates. Follow‐up data were used to compare outcome (lameness evaluation and radiographic healing) after use of HDCP and CLP plates.

Results

PCA was performed with HDCP in 125 cases, CLP in 105, and by other techniques in 31. Carpal hyperextension injury was the most common diagnosis in HDCP and CLP groups. Surgical site infection (18.3%) was the most common postoperative complication. There was no difference in intra‐ (11% HDCP, 21% CLP) or postoperative (34% HDCP, 41% CLP) complication rates. Use of external coaptation did not affect postoperative complication rates or outcome. External coaptation related complications occurred in 32% HDCP and 18% CLP (P = .02). At median follow‐up, most dogs were classified as having no or mild lameness (73% HDCP, 83% CLP) and there was radiographic healing in 40% HDCP and 46% CLP (P = .8) cases.

Conclusions

CLP and HDCP may both be used successfully to achieve pancarpal arthrodesis. Adjunctive external coaptation does not appear to have a measurable clinical benefit but is associated with morbidity.
What factors influence nurses' assessment practices? Development of the Barriers to Nurses' use of Physical Assessment Scale
Authors: Douglas Clint , Osborne Sonya , Reid Carol , Batch Mary , Hollingdrake Olivia , Gardner Glenn ,   Members of the RBWH Patient Assessment Research Council
Published: April 2014

Aim

To develop and psychometrically test the Barriers to Nurses' use of Physical Assessment Scale.

Background

There is growing evidence of failure to recognize hospitalized patients at risk of clinical deterioration, in part due to inadequate physical assessment by nurses. Yet, little is known about the barriers to nurses' use of physical assessment in the acute hospital setting and no validated scales have been published.

Design

Instrument development study.

Method

Scale development was based on a comprehensive literature review, focus groups, expert review and psychometric evaluation. The scale was administered to 434 acute care Registered Nurses working at a large Australian teaching hospital between June and July 2013. Psychometric analysis included factor analysis, model fit statistics and reliability testing.

Results

The final scale was reduced to 38 items representing seven factors, together accounting for 57·7% of the variance: (1) reliance on others and technology; (2) lack of time and interruptions; (3) ward culture; (4) lack of confidence; (5) lack of nursing role models; (6) lack of influence on patient care; and (7) specialty area. Internal reliability ranged from 0·70–0·86.

Conclusion

Findings provide initial evidence for the validity and reliability of the Barriers to Nurses' use of Physical Assessment Scale and point to the importance of understanding the organizational determinants of nurses' assessment practices. The new scale has potential clinical and research applications to support nursing assessment in acute care settings.
Potential Economic Impacts of Environmental Flows Following a Possible Listing of Endangered Texas Freshwater Mussels
Authors: Wolaver Brad D. , Cook Cassandra E. , Sunding David L. , Hamilton Stephen F. , Scanlon Bridget R. , Young Michael H. , Xu Xianli , Reedy Robert C.
Published: April 2014

Texas water resources, already taxed by drought and population growth, could be further stressed by possible listings of endangered aquatic species. This study estimated potential economic impacts of environmental flows (EFs) for five freshwater unionid mussels in three Central Texas basins (Brazos, Colorado, and Guadalupe‐San Antonio Rivers) that encompass 36% of Texas (~246,000 km2). A water availability model projected reductions in water supply to power, commercial and industrial, municipal, and agriculture sectors in response to possible EFs for mussels. Single‐year economic impacts were calculated using publicly available data with and without water transfers. Benefits of EFs should also be assessed, should critical habitat be proposed. Potential economic losses were highest during droughts, but were nominal (<$1 M) in wetter years — even with high EFs. Reduced supplies to San Antonio area power plants caused worst‐case impacts of a single‐year shutdown up to $107 million (M) during drought with high EFs. For other sectors in the study area, water transfers reduced worst‐case losses from $80 to $11 M per year. Implementing innovative water management strategies such as water markets, conjunctive use of surface water and groundwater, aquifer storage and recovery could mitigate economic impacts if mussels — or other widely distributed aquatic species — were listed. However, approaches for defining EFs and strategies for mitigating economic impacts of EFs are needed.
Water Balances of Two Piedmont Headwater Catchments: Implications for Regional Hydrologic Landscape Classification
Authors: Dreps C. , James A.L. , Sun G. , Boggs J.
Published: April 2014

In the Piedmont of North Carolina, a traditionally water‐rich region, reservoirs that serve over 1 million people are under increasing pressure due to naturally occurring droughts and increasing land development. Innovative development approaches aim to maintain hydrologic conditions of the undisturbed landscape, but are based on insufficient target information. This study uses the hydrologic landscape concept to evaluate reference hydrology in small headwater catchments surrounding Falls Lake, a reservoir serving Raleigh and the greater Triangle area. Researchers collected one year of detailed data on water balance components, including precipitation, evapotranspiration, streamflow, and shallow subsurface storage from two headwater catchments representative of two hydrologic landscapes defined by differences in soils and topographic characteristics. The two catchments are similar in size and lie within the same physiographic region, and during the study period they showed similar water balances of 26‐30% Q, −4 to 5% ΔS, 59‐65% evapotranspiration, and 9‐10% G. However, the steeper, more elevated catchment exhibited perennial streamflow and nongrowing season runoff ratios (Q/P) of 33%, whereas the flat, low‐lying stream was drier during the growing season and exhibited Q/P ratios of 52% during the nongrowing season. A hydrologic landscape defined by topography and soil characteristics helps characterize local‐scale reference hydrology and may contribute to better land management decisions.
Analysing the relationship between lncRNA and protein‐coding gene and the role of lncRNA as ceRNA in pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Song Xiaodong , Cao Guohong , Jing Lili , Lin Shengcui , Wang Xiaozhi , Zhang Jinjin , Wang Meirong , Liu Weili , Lv Changjun
Published: April 2014

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in various pathophysiologic processes and human diseases. However, their dynamics and corresponding functions in pulmonary fibrosis remain poorly understood. In this study, portions of lncRNAs adjacent or homologous to protein‐coding genes were determined by searching the UCSC genome bioinformatics database. This was found to be potentially useful for exploring lncRNA functions in disease progression. Previous studies showed that competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) hypothesis is another method to predict lncRNA function. However, little is known about the function of ceRNA in pulmonary fibrosis. In this study, we selected two differentially expressed lncRNAs MRAK088388 and MRAK081523 to explore their regulatory mechanisms. MRAK088388 and MRAK081523 were analysed as long‐intergenic non‐coding RNAs (lincRNAs), and identified as orthologues of mouse lncRNAs AK088388 and AK081523, respectively. qRT‐PCR and in situ hybridization (ISH) showed that they were significantly up‐regulated, and located in the cytoplasm of interstitial lung cells. We also showed that MRAK088388 and N4bp2 had the same miRNA response elements (MREs) for miR‐200, miR‐429, miR‐29, and miR‐30, whereas MRAK081523 and Plxna4 had the same MREs for miR‐218, miR‐141, miR‐98, and let‐7. Moreover, the expression levels of N4bp2 and Plxna4 significantly increased in fibrotic rats, and were highly correlated with those of MRAK088388 and MRAK081523, respectively. Among their shared miRNAs, miR‐29b‐3p and let‐7i‐5p decreased in the model group, and were negatively correlated with the expression of MRAK088388 and MRAK081523, respectively. MRAK088388 and MRAK081523 could regulate N4bp2 and Plxna4 expression by sponging miR‐29b‐3p and let‐7i‐5p, respectively, and possessed regulatory functions as ceRNAs. Thus, our study may provide insights into the functional interactions of lncRNA, miRNA and mRNA, and lead to new theories for the pathogenesis and treatment of pulmonary fibrosis.
Association of chemerin with oxidative stress, inflammation and classical adipokines in non‐diabetic obese patients
Authors: Fülöp Péter , Seres Ildikó , Lőrincz Hajnalka , Harangi Mariann , Somodi Sándor , Paragh György
Published: April 2014

The prevalence of obesity has been increasing worldwide. Chemerin is a recently discovered adipokine secreted by the enlarged adipose tissue with diverse biological effects that are not well detailed yet. This study aimed to elucidate the potential role of chemerin in oxidative stress and inflammation that are characteristics for excess weight and may eventually lead to insulin resistance and atherosclerotic complications. We also analysed the associations between chemerin and classical adipokines, namely leptin and adiponectin. Therefore, we investigated non‐diabetic obese patients without manifest cardiovascular disease and compared their data to healthy lean individuals. Chemerin correlated positively with markers of oxidative stress and inflammation, while it showed a negative correlation with the measure of antioxidant status, characterized by the HDL‐linked paraoxonase‐1 enzyme. Chemerin also correlated positively with leptin and negatively with adiponectin respectively. In our study population, oxidized low‐density lipoprotein and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein were found to be the strongest predictors of chemerin level. We conclude that chemerin may contribute to chronic inflammation and increased oxidative stress in obese individuals, even in the absence of manifest insulin resistance.
Periodontal pathogens and associated factors in aggressive periodontitis: results 5–17 years after active periodontal therapy
Authors: Meyer‐Bäumer Amelie , Eick Sigrun , Mertens Christian , Uhlmann Lorenz , Hagenfeld Daniel , Eickholz Peter , Kim Ti‐Sun , Cosgarea Raluca
Published: April 2014

Objectives

To assess the association between presence of periodontal pathogens and recurrence of disease in patients with aggressive periodontitis (AgP) after active periodontal therapy (APT) and further influencing factors.

Material & Methods

Microbiological samples were taken from 73 patients with AgP 5–17 years afterAPTat 292 sites (deepest site per quadrant). Real‐time polymerase chain reactions were used to detect the periodontal pathogensAggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans,Porphyromonas gingivalis,Tannerella forsythiaandTreponema denticola. Uni‐ and multivariate analyses evaluated the associations between pathogens and recurrence of disease, smoking and adjunctive antibiotic therapy.

Results

At re‐examinationA. actinomycetemcomitanscould be detected in six patients (8.2%),P. gingivalisin 24 (32.9%),T. forsythiain 31 (42.5%) andT. denticolain 35 (48.0%). Increased levels ofT. forsythiaandT. denticolaat re‐examination were significantly associated with recurrence of disease in multivariate analyses (OR: 12.72,p < 0.001;OR5.55,p = 0.002 respectively). Furthermore, high counts ofT. denticolawere found in patients with increased percentage of sites with clinical attachment levels (CAL) ≥6 mm compared to those with low counts (13.8%versus3.2%,p = 0.005).

Conclusion

In patients with recurrence of diseaseT. forsythiaandT. denticolawere detected more frequently and in higher counts. Furthermore,T. denticolawas found more frequently in patients with increasedCAL.
A randomized, investigator‐blinded efficacy assessment study of stand‐alone emollient use in mild to moderately severe atopic dermatitis flares
Authors: Angelova‐Fischer I. , Neufang G. , Jung K. , Fischer T.W. , Zillikens D.
Published: April 2014

Background

Whereas emollients are integral to the long‐term management of atopic dermatitis (AD), the evidence for their efficacy in disease flares is limited.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the stand‐alone efficacy of an emollient formulation with regard to improvement of the clinical symptoms, skin barrier function and reduction of pathogenic bacterial colonization in acute stage of AD.

Materials and methods

Twenty AD volunteers aged 12–65 years with symmetric, mild to moderately severe inflammatory lesions on the forearms/arms were recruited for the study. At inclusion, the forearms/arms of each volunteer were randomized to receive for 1 week either an o/w formulation containing licochalcone A (Glycyrrhiza Inflata root extract), decanediol, menthoxypropanediol and ω‐6‐fatty acids (emollient arm) or 1% hydrocortisone (HC arm); after 1 week, the application of the emollient and HC were discontinued and the volunteers applied a w/o emollient containing licochalcone A and ω‐6‐fatty acids on both arms for further 3 weeks. The outcomes included reduction of the clinical and itch severity, decrease in S.aureus colonization, improvement of the barrier function, skin hydration and skin tolerability assessed after 1 week (D7) and after 4 weeks (D28) respectively.

Results

In both arms, there was a significant decrease in the severity score, itch intensity, erythema and TEWL on D7 and D28 compared to baseline. In addition, emollient use resulted in pronounced decrease in S.aureus colonization and significant increase of skin hydration on D7. The comparison of the outcomes, based on percentage change from baseline, showed no significant differences between the emollient and HC arm at any time point.

Conclusions

The results of the study indicate that the 1‐week stand‐alone application of an emollient, tailored to target inflammation, pruritus, compromised barrier function and pathogenic bacterial colonization may offer benefit for the improvement of mild to moderately severe localized flares of AD.
Public Report, Price, and Quality
Authors: Ma Ching‐to Albert , Mak Henry Y.
Published: April 2014

A monopolist produces a good with two qualities. All consumers have the same valuation of the first quality, but their valuations of the second vary, and are their private information. A public agency can verify qualities, and make credible reports to consumers. In Full Quality Report, the public agency reports both qualities. In Average Quality Report, it reports a weighted average of qualities. The equilibrium prices and qualities in Full Quality Report can be implemented by Average Quality Report. Equilibrium prices and qualities in Average Quality Report give higher consumer surplus than Full Quality Report. Bertrand competition under Average Quality Report yields first‐best prices and qualities.
Diversity, Social Goods Provision, and Performance in the Firm
Authors: Ellison Sara Fisher , Mullin Wallace P.
Published: April 2014

Economists have studied the effect of diversity on the provision of social goods and the stock of social capital. In parallel, management scholars have studied the effect of diversity in the workplace on firm performance. We integrate these two growing literatures and explore these questions with a unique dataset. A firm provided eight years of individual‐level employee survey data, which include measures of the stock of social capital, plus office‐level measures of diversity and performance. We find some evidence that more gender‐homogeneous offices enjoy higher levels of social goods provision but those offices do not perform any better and may actually perform worse.
When Does a Platform Create Value by Limiting Choice?
Authors: Casadesus‐Masanell Ramon , Hałaburda Hanna
Published: April 2014

We present a theory for why it might be rational for a platform to limit the number of applications available on it. Our model is based on the observation that even if users prefer application variety, applications often also exhibit direct network effects. When there are direct network effects, users prefer to consume the same applications to benefit from consumption complementarities. We show that the combination of preference for variety and consumption complementarities gives rise to (i) a commons problem (to better satisfy their individual preference for variety, users have an incentive to consume more applications than the number that maximizes joint utility); (ii) an equilibrium selection problem (consumption complementarities often lead to multiple equilibria, which result in different utility levels for the users); and (iii) a coordination problem (lacking perfect foresight, it is unlikely that users will end up buying the same set of applications). The analysis shows that the platform can resolve these problems and create value by limiting the number of applications available. By limiting choice, the platform may create new equilibria (including the allocation that maximizes users' utility); eliminate equilibria that give lower utility to the users; and reduce the severity of the coordination problem faced by users.
Vertical Integration and Exclusive Behavior of Insurers and Hospitals
Authors: Douven Rudy , Halbersma Rein , Katona Katalin , Shestalova Victoria
Published: April 2014

We examine vertical integration and exclusive behavior in health care markets in which insurers and hospitals bilaterally bargain over contracts. We employ a bargaining model of two hospitals and two health insurers competing on premiums. We show that asymmetric equilibria exist in which one insurer contracts one hospital whereas the other insurer contracts both hospitals, even if all players are equally efficient in their production. Asymmetric equilibria arise if hospitals are sufficiently differentiated. In these cases, total industry profits increase and consumer welfare decreases in comparison to the case in which both insurers have contracts with both hospitals. Vertical integration makes these equilibria possible for a wider range of parameters.
Brand Management and Strategies Against Counterfeits
Authors: Qian Yi
Published: April 2014

In this paper, I provide a theory for brand‐protection strategies to reduce counterfeiting under weak intellectual property rights. My theoretical framework has general implications for endogenous sunk cost investments as a means of deterring counterfeiters. My model incorporates two layers of asymmetric information that counterfeits can incur: counterfeiters fooling consumers and buyers of counterfeits fooling other consumers. Brands have a number of tools at their disposal to maintain a separating equilibrium in the face of counterfeits. One of the theoretical predictions of this study is that counterfeit entry induces incumbent brands to introduce new products. This helps to explain the innovation strategies that authentic firms employ in response to entry by counterfeiters in practice. Authentic prices rise if and only if the counterfeit quality is lower than a threshold level. In addition, the model demonstrates how authentic producers could invest in self‐enforcement to increase counterfeiters' incentives to separate themselves from brands. Better channel management through company stores and other costly devices are forms of nonprice signals and complement a company's own enforcements against counterfeits. These predictions are validated using unique panel data collected from Chinese shoe companies covering the years 1993–2004. Data further reveal that companies with worse relationships with the government invest more in various self‐enforcement strategies, which are effective in reducing counterfeit sales, and that the set of strategies are complements rather than substitutes for each other.
Adsorption Isotherms of Maria Biscuits from Different Brands
Authors: Guiné R.P.F. , Barroca M.J. , Pereira D. , Correia P.M.R.
Published: April 2014

This study aimed to determine the adsorption curves of Maria biscuits from different brands at temperatures of 25 and 40C. The equilibrium between the sample and the atmosphere was achieved by placing the samples inside flasks containing saturated salts, at the temperatures studied for 5 days, to allow reaching equilibrium.From the results, it was possible to observe that by increasing the temperature, the stability of the product is augmented, as for the same moisture content the water activity is greatly reduced. Four sorption models were fitted with the adsorption data, but the Guggenheim–Anderson–deBoer and Henderson were better than the other models tested. In addition, the monolayer moisture content at temperature of 25C ranged between 0.0495 and 0.1981 g water/g dry basis, and at the temperature of 40C this parameter varied between 0.0529 and 0.1960 g water/g dry basis.

Practical Applications

The importance of stability for bakery products is critical for the maintenance of physical–chemical properties, and in particular to avoid spoilage and maintain texture. Biscuits are very hygroscopic and therefore, if not properly stored, tend to absorb water from the air, thus compromising texture. Knowledge about adsorption isotherms provides valuable information regarding the stability of products under some conditions. Therefore, the study undertaken in this work could be utilized to select the best storage and package conditions so as to improve product quality, moreover because Maria biscuits are largely consumed and appreciated for their crispy texture.
Focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy in biology
Authors: KIZILYAPRAK C. , DARASPE J. , HUMBEL B.M.
Published: April 2014

Since the end of the last millennium, the focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB‐SEM) has progressively found use in biological research. This instrument is a scanning electron microscope (SEM) with an attached gallium ion column and the 2 beams, electrons and ions (FIB) are focused on one coincident point. The main application is the acquisition of three‐dimensional data, FIB‐SEM tomography. With the ion beam, some nanometres of the surface are removed and the remaining block‐face is imaged with the electron beam in a repetitive manner. The instrument can also be used to cut open biological structures to get access to internal structures or to prepare thin lamella for imaging by (cryo‐) transmission electron microscopy. Here, we will present an overview of the development of FIB‐SEM and discuss a few points about sample preparation and imaging.
Voltammetric and mathematical evidence for dual transport mediation of serotonin clearance in vivo
Authors: Wood Kevin M. , Zeqja Anisa , Nijhout H. Frederik , Reed Michael C. , Best Janet , Hashemi Parastoo
Published: April 2014

The neurotransmitter serotonin underlies many of the brain's functions. Understanding serotonin neurochemistry is important for improving treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders such as depression. Antidepressants commonly target serotonin clearance via serotonin transporters and have variable clinical effects. Adjunctive therapies, targeting other systems including serotonin autoreceptors, also vary clinically and carry adverse consequences. Fast scan cyclic voltammetry is particularly well suited for studying antidepressant effects on serotonin clearance and autoreceptors by providing real‐time chemical information on serotonin kinetics in vivo. However, the complex nature of in vivo serotonin responses makes it difficult to interpret experimental data with established kinetic models. Here, we electrically stimulated the mouse medial forebrain bundle to provoke and detect terminal serotonin in the substantia nigra reticulata. In response to medial forebrain bundle stimulation we found three dynamically distinct serotonin signals. To interpret these signals we developed a computational model that supports two independent serotonin reuptake mechanisms (high affinity, low efficiency reuptake mechanism, and low affinity, high efficiency reuptake system) and bolsters an important inhibitory role for the serotonin autoreceptors. Our data and analysis, afforded by the powerful combination of voltammetric and theoretical methods, gives new understanding of the chemical heterogeneity of serotonin dynamics in the brain. This diverse serotonergic matrix likely contributes to clinical variability of antidepressants.

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Understanding serotonin neurochemistry is essential for improving antidepressant therapies. We provide evidence for two discrete serotonin reuptake mechanisms (high affinity, low efficiency reuptake mechanism, and low affinity, high efficiency reuptake system), characterized by three distinct serotonin responses. We characterize selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and autoreceptor inhibition effects. Our innovative tool offers an ideal method to study serotonin in relation to depression physiology and antidepressant therapies.
γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase 1 specifically suppresses green‐light avoidance via GABAA receptors in Drosophila
Authors: Liu Jiangqu , Gong Zhefeng , Liu Li
Published: April 2014

Drosophila larvae innately show light avoidance behavior. Compared with robust blue‐light avoidance, larvae exhibit relatively weaker green‐light responses. In our previous screening for genes involved in larval light avoidance, compared with control w1118 larvae, larvae with γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase 1 (Ggt‐1) knockdown or Ggt‐1 mutation were found to exhibit higher percentage of green‐light avoidance which was mediated by Rhodopsin6 (Rh6) photoreceptors. However, their responses to blue light did not change significantly. By adjusting the expression level of Ggt‐1 in different tissues, we found that Ggt‐1 in malpighian tubules was both necessary and sufficient for green‐light avoidance. Our results showed that glutamate levels were lower in Ggt‐1 null mutants compared with controls. Feeding Ggt‐1 null mutants glutamate can normalize green‐light avoidance, indicating that high glutamate concentrations suppressed larval green‐light avoidance. However, rather than directly, glutamate affected green‐light avoidance indirectly through GABA, the level of which was also lower in Ggt‐1 mutants compared with controls. Mutants in glutamate decarboxylase 1, which encodes GABA synthase, and knockdown lines of the GABAA receptor, both exhibit elevated levels of green‐light avoidance. Thus, our results elucidate the neurobiological mechanisms mediating green‐light avoidance, which was inhibited in wild‐type larvae.

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We proposed the role of GGT‐1 in the inhibition of Drosophila green‐light avoidance. GGT‐1 in malpighian tubules regulates glutamate levels, and further affects GABA concentrations, which functions as an inhibitory neurotransmitter at the GABAA receptor RDL to suppress responses to green light. These findings elucidate the mechanisms mediating inhibition of green‐light avoidance and may explain differential responses to light of different colors.
FINANCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH: A META‐ANALYSIS
Authors: Valickova Petra , Havranek Tomas , Horvath Roman
Published: April 2014

We analyze 1334 estimates from 67 studies that examine the effect of financial development on economic growth. Taken together, the studies imply a positive and statistically significant effect, but the individual estimates vary widely. We find that both research design and heterogeneity in the underlying effect play a role in explaining the differences in results. Studies that do not address endogeneity tend to overstate the effect of finance on growth. While the effect seems to be weaker in less developed countries, the effect decreases worldwide after the 1980s. Our results also suggest that stock markets support faster economic growth than other financial intermediaries.
Dedicated Bifurcation Paclitaxel‐Eluting Stent BiOSS Expert® in the Treatment of Distal Left Main Stem Stenosis
Authors: BIL JACEK , GIL ROBERT J. , VASSILEV DOBRIN , RZEZAK JAROSŁAW , KULAWIK TOMASZ , PAWLOWSKI TOMASZ
Published: April 2014

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess prospectively the effectiveness and safety profile of distal left main stem (LMS) stenosis treatment with dedicated bifurcation paclitaxel‐eluting stent BiOSS Expert®.

Background

Angioplasty of distal LMS stenosis is always a high‐risk procedure, and optimal treatment is uncertain.

Methods

This was a prospective international 2‐center study, which enrolled patients with non‐ST‐elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE‐ACS) or stable angina with distal left main stenosis. All patients were treated with the dedicated bifurcation stent BiOSS Expert®. Provisional T‐stenting was the obligatory strategy. Angiographic control was performed after 12 months. The primary end‐point was cumulative rate of death, myocardial infarction (MI), and target lesion revascularization (TLR) at 12 months. Angiographic end‐points included late lumen loss, percent diameter stenosis, and binary restenosis rate.

Results

A total of 54 patients with distal LMS stenosis were enrolled. Seven patients (13%) were enrolled during NSTE‐ACS, 77.8% were hypertensive, 27.8% were diabetic, 51.9% had previous MI, 53.7% underwent prior percutaneous coronary intervention, and 16.7% coronary artery bypass graft. The mean SYNTAX score was 21.52 ± 6.50. The device success rate was 100%. The mean BiOSS Expert stent parameters were as follows: 4.07 ± 0.26 mm × 3.36 ± 0.26 mm × 16.61 ± 1.72 mm and in side branch the other stent (classical drug‐eluting stent) was implanted in 25.9% of cases. The overall TLR was 9.3%. There were no death, stent thrombosis, or acute MI. In the univariate regression analysis, the only factor associated with higher risk for TLR was the SYNTAX score value.

Conclusions

The dedicated bifurcation stent BiOSS Expert® proved to be a feasible device, with promising safety and long‐term clinical effectiveness in the treatment of distal LMS stenosis. (J Interven Cardiol 2014;27:242–251)
Glioma stem cells: turpis omen in nomen? (the evil in the name?)
Authors: Binda E. , Reynolds B. A. , Vescovi A. L.
Published: April 2014

High‐grade gliomas remain incurable and lethal. Through the availability of the stem‐like cells responsible for glioblastoma (GB) formation, expansion, resilience and recurrence, the discovery of glioma cancer stem cells (GCSCs) is revolutionizing this field. GCSCs provide an unprecedented opportunity to reproduce and study GB pathophysiology more accurately. This critically emphasizes our ability to unambiguously identify, isolate and investigate cells that do qualify as GCSCs, to use them as a potential model that is truly predictive of GBs and of their regulation and response to therapeutic agents. We review this concept against the background of key findings on somatic, neural and solid tumour stem cells (SCs), also taking into account the emerging phenomenon of phenotypic SC plasticity. We suggest that basic approaches in these areas can be imported into the GCSC field, so that the same functional method used to identify normal somatic SCs becomes the most appropriate to define GCSCs. This, combined with knowledge of the cellular and molecular basis of normal adult neurogenesis, promises to improve the identification of GCSCs and of selective markers, as well as the development of innovative, more specific and efficacious antiglioma strategies.
Intracranial Internal Carotid Artery Angioplasthy and Stenting in Giant Cell Arteritis
Authors: Guerrero Antonio Méndez , Sierra‐Hidalgo Fernando , Calleja Patricia , Navia Pedro , Campollo Jorge , Díaz‐Guzmán Jaime
Published: April 2014

We report the case of a 59‐year‐old woman who presented with several episodes of transient ischemic attack (TIA) caused by pathologically confirmed giant cell arteritis. She continued suffering from TIAs during admission despite immunosuppressant and antithrombotic therapy. Sudden neurological deterioration with paraparesis and cognitive impairment developed. A brain magnetic resonance (MR) imaging showed bilateral watershed ischemic lesions. MR angiography demonstrated severe stenosis of both intracranial internal carotid arteries (ICAs). Angioplasty and stenting on the left ICA were performed, with evident clinical improvement occurring within 24 hours. Endovascular therapy may be an alternative option to treat severe GCA with symptomatic intracranial large vessel disease not responsive to intensive conventional medical treatment.
Waffle‐Cone Technique Using Solitaire AB Stent for Endovascular Treatment of Complex and Wide‐Necked Bifurcation Cerebral Aneurysms
Authors: Guo Xin‐bin , Yan Bao‐jun , Guan Sheng
Published: April 2014

INTRODUCTION

To explore the safety and opportunity of the “waffle‐cone” technique for the treatment of intracranial aneurysm.

METHODS

From November 2009 and May 2012, consecutive data were collected from 136 patients with aneurysms treated by the stent‐assisted coiling procedure. Six of these patients were treated using the “waffle‐cone” technique.

RESULTS

All the 6 patients were complex, wide‐neck, bifurcation cerebral aneurysms. And the angles between the parent artery and distal vessels are acute. Two ruptured aneurysms located at the terminus of basilar artery, three ruptured aneurysms located at the anterior communicating artery, and one ruptured aneurysm located at trifurcation MCA. All the 6 patients were treated using the “waffle‐cone” technique, 4 patients had Raymond classification Class I and 2 patients had Class II after the procedure. No complications occurred perioperative. There were no lesion‐related strokes or deaths during the 6‐month follow‐up period.

CONCLUSIONS

The “waffle‐cone” technique is a safe, simple and alternative for the complex, wide‐necked bifurcation aneurysms with acute angles between the parent artery and distal vessels. Long‐term following‐up results are needed to evaluate the efficacy of this technique.
Dental status and oral health‐related quality of life. A population‐based study
Authors: Visscher C. M. , Lobbezoo F. , Schuller A. A.
Published: April 2014

Oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) is associated with tooth wear and tooth loss. This study investigated the association between OHRQoL and dental status (in terms of natural dentition, partial or complete dentures, or edentulism). Sixteen hundred and twenty‐two persons who participated in a large‐scale Dutch dental survey were interviewed. Dentate persons (n = 1407) were additionally invited for a clinical examination (response rate: 69%). Dental status was based upon the combined data from this clinical examination and the questionnaire (seven dental status groups were defined). OHRQoL was measured by the Dutch translation of the short version of the Oral Health Impact Profile, the OHIP‐NL14. Kruskal–Wallis tests and Mann–Whitney U tests were used to investigate differences in OHRQoL between the dental status groups. For all OHIP‐NL14 scales, differences in OHRQoL were found between the dental status groups (all P‐values <0·001). The Mann–Whitney U tests revealed no differences between persons with a complete natural dentition and persons with a fixed prosthetic replacement. The latter group, however, did show a significantly better OHRQoL as compared to persons with a removable partial denture. Surprisingly, edentulous persons with an overdenture had a more impaired OHRQoL than edentulous persons with non‐supported complete dentures. The results demonstrated that impaired dental status is associated with deteriorations in OHRQoL, especially concerning functional limitations, physical pain and social disability.
Daily Associations Between Drinking and Sex Among College Students: A Longitudinal Measurement Burst Design
Authors: Patrick Megan E. , Maggs Jennifer L. , Lefkowitz Eva S.
Published: April 2014

Daily links between alcohol use and sexual behaviors were examined in a longitudinal study of college students. Hierarchical linear models predicted sexual behaviors by characteristics of persons (N = 731, Level 3), semesters (N = 4,345, Level 2), and days (N = 56,372, Level 1). On a given day, consuming more drinks and binge drinking were associated with greater odds of kissing, touching, oral sex, and penetrative sex. Consistent with alcohol myopia and expectancy theories, associations between binge drinking and sexual behaviors were stronger for students not in romantic relationships, for students with stronger alcohol–sex expectancies, and for oral and penetrative sex. Findings suggest that within‐day links between alcohol use and sexual behaviors are evident across college, with variations based on individual and relationship factors.
The Interplay Between Gender and Structure: Dynamics of Adolescent Friendships in Single‐Gender Classes and Mixed‐Gender Classes
Authors: Ko Pei‐Chun , Buskens Vincent , Wu Chyi‐In
Published: April 2014

This study reviews theories on striving for closure in adolescent networks related to trust issues of adolescents and further examines whether adolescents in mixed‐gender and single‐gender classes are different in striving for closure. Stochastic actor‐based models for network dynamics are applied to test our hypotheses based on longitudinal friendship nominations of 406 Taiwanese adolescents in mixed‐gender, all‐boy, and all‐girl classes. The results show that adolescents strive for closure through connections of friends' friends. Further, the results reveal that while the tendency toward closure is stronger for girls in mixed‐gender classes, such tendency toward closure is stronger in all‐boy classes than in all‐girl classes. Testing effects between types of classes supports the indications of variances in striving closure.
Community Service and Adolescents' Social Capital
Authors: Flanagan Constance A. , Kim Taehan , Collura Jessica , Kopish Michael A.
Published: April 2014

In two studies of 5th–12th graders (n = 2,371; n = 999), we compare four groups based on engagement patterns in community service (CS) and/or extracurricular activities (EC). In both studies, adolescents who engaged in BOTH CS (whether mandated or voluntary) and EC had the highest reports of bonding and bridging social capital, intergenerational harmony, and social support whereas those who did NEITHER had the lowest. For most outcomes, adolescents engaged only in CS had higher reports than peers engaged only in EC. Content analyses of what adolescents learned in CS suggest its potential for broadening their awareness of fellow members of their communities, their mutual obligations, and collective capacities.
Effects of isobutyrate supplementation on ruminal microflora, rumen enzyme activities and methane emissions in Simmental steers
Authors: Wang C. , Liu Q. , Zhang Y. L. , Pei C. X. , Zhang S. L. , Wang Y. X. , Yang W. Z. , Bai Y. S. , Shi Z. G. , Liu X. N.
Published: April 2014

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of isobutyrate supplementation on rumen microflora, enzyme activities and methane emissions in Simmental steers consuming a corn stover‐based diet. Eight ruminally cannulated Simmental steers were used in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square experiment. The treatments were control (without isobutyrate), low isobutyrate (LIB), moderate isobutyrate (MIB) and high isobutyrate (HIB) with 8.4, 16.8 and 25.2 g isobutyrate per steer per day respectively. Isobutyrate was hand‐mixed into the concentrate portion. Diet consisted of 60% corn stover and 40% concentrate [dry matter (DM) basis]. Dry matter intake (averaged 9 kg/day) was restricted to a maximum of 90% of ad libitum intake. Population of total bacteria, cellulolytic bacteria and anaerobic fungi were linearly increased, whereas that of protozoa and total methanogens was linearly reduced with increasing isobutyrate supplementation. Real‐time PCR quantification of population of Ruminococcus albus, Ruminococcus flavefaciens, Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens and Fibrobacter succinogenes was linearly increased with increasing isobutyrate supplementation. Activities of carboxymethyl cellulase, xylanase and β‐glucosidase were linearly increased, whereas that of protease was linearly reduced. Methane production was linearly decreased with increasing isobutyrate supplementation. Effective degradabilities of cellulose and hemicellulose of corn stover were linearly increased, whereas that of crude protein in diet was linearly decreased with increasing isobutyrate supplementation. The present results indicate that isobutyrate supplemented improved microflora, rumen enzyme activities and methane emissions in steers. It was suggested that the isobutyrate stimulated the digestive micro‐organisms or enzymes in a dose‐dependent manner. In the experimental conditions of this trial, the optimum isobutyrate dose was approximately 16.8 g isobutyrate per steer per day.
Monitoring bone morphogenetic protein‐2 and ‐7, soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand and osteoprotegerin levels in the peri‐implant sulcular fluid during the osseointegration of hydrophilic‐modified sandblasted acid‐etched and sandblasted acid‐etched surface dental implants
Authors: Dolanmaz D. , Saglam M. , Inan O. , Dundar N. , Alniacık G. , Gursoy Trak B. , Kocak E. , Hakki S. S.
Published: April 2014

Background and Objective

The implant surface plays a major role in the biological response to titanium dental implants. The aim of this study was to investigate levels of soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand (sRANKL), osteoprotegerin (OPG), bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) and ‐7 (BMP‐7) in the peri‐implant crevicular fluid (PICF) of different implants during the osseointegration period.

Material and Methods

Forty‐seven patients (22 females and 25 males, mean age 47.34 ± 10.11) were included in this study. Forty‐seven implants from two implant systems (group A1 (sandblasted acid‐etched [SLA]‐16), group A2 (hydrophilic‐modified SLA [SLActive]‐16), and group B (sandblasted acid‐etched [SLA]‐15) were placed using standard surgical protocols. PICF samples, plaque index, gingival index and probing depth measurements were obtained at 1 and 3 mo after surgery. PICF levels of sRANKL, OPG, BMP‐2/‐7 were analyzed by ELISA.

Results

No complications were observed during the healing period. No significant differences were observed in the PICF levels of sRANKL, OPG, BMP‐2 and BMP‐7 for all groups at any time point (p > 0.05). A significant decrease was observed in BMP‐2 levels in group A1 (p < 0.05). A significant increase in BMP‐7 levels was observed only for group A2 (p < 0.05). There was a strong negative correlation between OPG and gingival index and a negative correlation between BMP‐7 and plaque index (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Considering the correlations between clinical and biochemical parameters, the levels of these cytokines in PICF during early healing of implants reflects the degree of peri‐implant inflammation, rather than differences in the implant surfaces.