bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potato aphid Macrosiphum euphorbiae performance is determined by aphid genotype and not mycorrhizal fungi or water availability
Authors: Karley Alison Jane , Emslie‐Smith Matthew , Bennett Alison Elizabeth
Published: February 2017

Intra‐ and interspecific variation in plant and insect traits can alter the strength and direction of insect–plant interactions, with outcomes modified by soil biotic and abiotic conditions. We used the potato aphid (Macrosiphum euphorbiae Thomas) feeding on cultivated Solanum tuberosum and wild Solanum berthaulti to study the impact of water availability and plant mutualistic arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi on aphid performance and susceptibility to a parasitoid wasp (Aphidius ervi Haliday). Plants were grown under glass with live or sterile AM fungal spores and supplied with sufficient or reduced water supply. Plants were infested with 1 of 3 genotypes of M. euphorbiae or maintained as aphid‐free controls; aphid abundance was scored after 1 week, after which aphid susceptibility to A. ervi was assayed ex planta. Solanum tuberosum accumulated c. 20% more dry mass than S. berthaultii, and root mass of S. berthaultii was smallest under reduced water supply in the presence of AM fungi. Aphid abundance was lowest on S. berthaultii and highest for genotype “2” aphids; genotype “1” aphid density was particularly reduced on S. berthaultii. Aphid genotype “1” exhibited low susceptibility to parasitism and was attacked less frequently than the other two more susceptible aphid genotypes. Neither AM fungi nor water availability affected insect performance. Our study suggests a fitness trade‐off in M. euphorbiae between parasitism resistance and aphid performance on poor quality Solanum hosts that warrants further exploration, and indicates the importance of accounting for genotype identity in determining the outcome of multitrophic interactions.
Ultrastructure of compatible and incompatible interactions in phloem sieve elements during the stylet penetration by cotton aphids in melon
Authors: Garzo Elisa , Fernández‐Pascual Mercedes , Morcillo Cesar , Fereres Alberto , Gómez‐Guillamón M. Luisa , Tjallingii W. Fred
Published: February 2017

Resistance of the melon line TGR‐1551 to the aphid Aphis gossypii is based on preventing aphids from ingesting phloem sap. In electrical penetration graphs (EPGs), this resistance has been characterized with A. gossypii showing unusually long phloem salivation periods (waveform E1) mostly followed by pathway activities (waveform C) or if followed by phloem ingestion (waveform E2), ingestion was not sustained for more than 10 min. Stylectomy with aphids on susceptible and resistant plants was performed during EPG recording while the stylet tips were phloem inserted. This was followed by dissection of the penetrated leaf section, plant tissue fixation, resin embedding, and ultrathin sectioning for transmission electron microscopic observation in order to study the resistance mechanism in the TGR. The most obvious aspect appeared to be the coagulation of phloem proteins inside the stylet canals and the punctured sieve elements. Stylets of 5 aphids per genotype were amputated during sieve element (SE) salivation (E1) and SE ingestion (E2). Cross‐sections of stylet bundles in susceptible melon plants showed that the contents of the stylet canals were totally clear and also, no coagulated phloem proteins occurred in their punctured sieve elements. In contrast, electron‐dense coagulations were found in both locations in the resistant plants. Due to calcium binding, aphid saliva has been hypothesized to play an essential role in preventing/suppressing such coagulations that cause occlusion of sieves plate and in the food canal of the aphid's stylets. Doubts about this role of E1 salivation are discussed on the basis of our results.
Shut the fridge door! HRM alignment, job redesign and energy performance
Authors: Christina Sian , Dainty Andrew , Daniels Kevin , Tregaskis Olga , Waterson Patrick
Published: February 2017

Anchored within the strategic HRM and alignment literature, and drawing on efficiency and legitimacy perspectives of organisational behaviour, we investigated a HRM intervention targeted at energy reduction goals in a large multinational retailer. The HRM intervention was focused on embedding the environmental and economic performance goals of the firm within the workplace through redesigning the job so that energy tasks were aligned with training and performance management systems, as well as organisational performance goals. Using a randomised control trial design, we tracked changes in energy behaviours and energy consumption in 769 retail stores (685 in the intervention condition, 84 in the control condition). The findings provide evidence that changing the alignment of HRM practices can influence both worker behaviour and organisational outcomes, including environmental outcomes. This work contributes to debates concerning the impact of HRM alignment on both the work and organisational performance context.
Computed tomography airway lumen volumetry in patients with acromegaly: Association with growth hormone levels and lung function
Authors: Camilo Gustavo Bittencourt , Carvalho Alysson Roncally Silva , Guimarães Alan Ranieri Medeiros , Kasuki Leandro , Gadelha Mônica Roberto , Mogami Roberto , de Melo Pedro Lopes , Lopes Agnaldo José
Published: February 2017

Introduction

The segmentation and skeletonisation of images via computed tomography (CT) airway lumen volumetry provide a new perspective regarding the incorporation of this technique in medical practice. Our aim was to quantify morphological changes in the large airways of patients with acromegaly through CT and, secondarily, to correlate these findings with hormone levels and pulmonary function testing (PFT) parameters.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study in which 28 non‐smoker patients with acromegaly and 15 control subjects underwent CT analysis of airway lumen volumetry with subsequent image segmentation and skeletonisation. Moreover, all participants were subjected to PFT.

Results

Compared with the controls, patients with acromegaly presented higher diameters in the trachea, right main bronchus and left main bronchus. The patients with acromegaly also showed a higher tracheal sinuosity index (the deviation of a line from the shortest path, calculated by dividing total length by shortest possible path) than the controls [1.06 (1.02–1.09) vs. 1.03 (1.02–1.04), P = 0.04], and tracheal stenosis was observed in 25% of these individuals. The tracheal area was correlated with the levels of growth hormone (rs = 0.45, P = 0.02) and insulin‐like growth factor type I (rs = 0.38, P = 0.04). The ratio between the forced expiratory flow and forced inspiratory flow at 50% of the forced vital capacity was correlated with the tracheal area (rs = 0.36, P = 0.02) and Δ tracheal diameters (rs = 0.58, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Patients with acromegaly exhibit tracheobronchomegaly and tracheal sinuosity/stenosis. Moreover, there are associations between the results of CT airway lumen volumetry, hormone levels and functional parameters of large airway obstruction.
Estimating mating rates in wild Drosophila melanogaster females by decay rates of male reproductive proteins in their reproductive tracts
Authors: Giardina Thomas J. , Clark Andrew G. , Fiumera Anthony C.
Published: February 2017

Female Drosophila melanogaster frequently mate with multiple males in nature as shown through parentage analysis. Although polyandry is well documented, we know little about the timing between mating events in wild Drosophila populations due to the challenge of following behaviours of individual females. In this study, we used the presence of a male reproductive protein that is transferred to the female during mating (Sex Peptide, SP) to determine whether she had recently mated. We sampled females throughout the day, conducted control matings to determine the decay rate of SP within the female reproductive tract and performed computer simulations to fit the observed proportion of mated females to a nonhomogenous Poisson process that defined the expected time between successive matings for a given female. In our control matings, 100% of mated females tested positive for SP 0.5 h after the start of mating (ASM), but only 24% tested positive 24 h ASM. Overall, 35% of wild‐caught females tested positive for the presence of SP. Fitting our observed data to our simple nonhomogenous Poisson model provided the inference that females are mating, on average, approximately every 27 h (with 95% credibility interval 23–31 h). Thus, it appears that females are mating a bit less frequently that once per day in this natural population and that mating events tend to occur either early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Adverse effects of artificial illumination on bat drinking activity
Authors: Russo D. , Cistrone L. , Libralato N. , Korine C. , Jones G. , Ancillotto L.
Published: February 2017

Artificial illumination at night (ALAN) alters many aspects of animal behaviour. Commuting and foraging bats have been found to be affected by ALAN, but no study has yet addressed the impact of lighting on drinking activity, despite its critical importance for bats. We experimentally illuminated cattle troughs used by drinking bats at four forest sites in Italy, and compared drinking activity and foraging activity under lit and dark conditions. We predicted that (1) the number of bat species and drinking events will be lower under illumination and (2) forest bat species will be more affected than edge specialists. We recorded 2549 drinking events from 12 species or species groups, most of which decreased drinking activity under illumination. The effects of ALAN on drinking were stronger than on foraging. Forest species never drank when the light was on. Edge‐foraging species reduced drinking activity while also increasing foraging under lit conditions. We highlight a previously overlooked negative effect of ALAN on bats, whose implications may be locally catastrophic. Given the importance of water sites for both bat foraging and drinking, their illumination should be forbidden, appropriately mitigated or, if necessary, compensated for with the creation of alternative drinking sites.
Significance of a negative sinus P wave in lead V2 of the clinical electrocardiogram
Authors: MacAlpin Rex N.
Published: February 2017

Background

A negative sinus P wave in lead V2 (NPV2) of the electrocardiogram (ECG) is rare when leads are positioned correctly. This study was undertaken to clarify the significance of an unusually high incidence of this anomaly found in ECGs at my institution.

Methods

One thousand four hundred thirty‐five ECGs were randomly selected to determine the incidence and gender frequency in tracings showing positive (PPV2), and biphasic (BPV2) P waves in V2, as well as NPV2. To those cases with NPV2, 84 cases with that anomaly from earlier archived ECGs were added to give a larger group for analysis. Medical records were reviewed for clinical details and other archived ECGs.

Results

PPV2, BPV2, and NPV2 were found in 1,216 (84.5%), 150 (10.5%), and 69 cases (4.8%), respectively. Cases with NPV2 were more likely to be female (46 of 69 or 67.7%) than were those with either PPV2 (500 of 1,216 or 41.1%; p < .001), or BPV2 (71 of 150 or 47.3%; p < .01). NPV2 was commonly associated with ECG findings of left atrial abnormality (LAA), septal myocardial infarction, or a ventricular repolarization abnormality, but when multiple ECGs were available in these cases, such abnormalities were usually absent when there was either PPV2 or BPV2.

Conclusions

With correct precordial lead placement, NPV2 is rare and BPV2 is also uncommon, and their presence should alert one to the probability of high placement of V1 and V2, which can produce ECGs that mimic LAA, septal infarction, and ventricular repolarization abnormality.
Successful use of sirolimus for refractory atrial ectopic tachycardia in a child with cardiac rhabdomyoma
Authors: Ninic Sanja , Kalaba Marija , Jovicic Bosiljka , Vukomanovic Vladislav , Prijic Sergej , Vucetic Biljana , Kravljanac Ruzica , Vujic Ana , Kosutic Jovan
Published: February 2017

Cardiac rhabdomyomas are common in tuberous sclerosis. We report a child who developed rhabdomyoma related arrhythmia refractory to antiarrhythmic drug therapy. Reversion of the atrial ectopic tachycardia was achieved with mammalian target of rapamycin pathway (mTOR) inhibitor sirolimus. As per our knowledge, this is the first time that sirolimus has been successfully used in this setting.
Correlations between electrocardiogram and biomarkers in acute pulmonary embolism: Analysis of ZATPOL‐2 Registry
Authors: Kukla Piotr , Kosior Dariusz A. , Tomaszewski Andrzej , Ptaszyńska‐Kopczyńska Katarzyna , Widejko Katarzyna , Długopolski Robert , Skrzyński Andrzej , Błaszczak Piotr , Fijorek Kamil , Kurzyna Marcin
Published: February 2017

Background

Electrocardiography (ECG) is still one of the first tests performed at admission, mostly in patients (pts) with chest pain or dyspnea. The aim of this study was to assess the correlation between electrocardiographic abnormalities and cardiac biomarkers as well as echocardiographic parameter in patients with acute pulmonary embolism.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of 614 pts. (F/M 334/280; mean age of 67.9 ± 16.6 years) with confirmed acute pulmonary embolism (APE) who were enrolled to the ZATPOL‐2 Registry between 2012 and 2014.

Results

Elevated cardiac biomarkers were observed in 358 pts (74.4%). In this group the presence of atrial fibrillation (p = .008), right axis deviation (p = .004), S1Q3T3 sign (p < .001), RBBB (p = .006), ST segment depression in leads V4–V6 (p < .001), ST segment depression in lead I (p = .01), negative T waves in leads V1–V3 (p < .001), negative T waves in leads V4–V6 (p = .005), negative T waves in leads II, III and aVF (p = .005), ST segment elevation in lead aVR (p = .002), ST segment elevation in lead III (p = .0038) was significantly more frequent in comparison to subjects with normal serum level of cardiac biomarkers. In multivariate regression analysis, clinical predictors of “abnormal electrocardiogram” were as follows: increased heart rate (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.02–1.17, p = .012), elevated troponin concentration (OR 3.33, 95% CI 1.94–5.72, p = .000), and right ventricular overload (OR 2.30, 95% CI 1.17–4.53, p = .016).

Conclusions

Electrocardiographic signs of right ventricular strain are strongly related to elevated cardiac biomarkers and echocardiographic signs of right ventricular overload. ECG may be used in preliminary risk stratification of patient with intermediate‐ or high‐risk forms of APE.
Rotator cuff disease: opinion regarding surgical criteria and likely outcome
Authors: Thorpe Alison , Hurworth Mark , O'Sullivan Peter , Mitchell Tim , Smith Anne
Published: February 2017

Background

Clinical guidelines for the management of rotator cuff disease are not clear. Surgeon surveys in the USA and UK lack agreement regarding surgical indications. Physical examination tests aid surgical decision‐making but also lack robust evidence. Study aims were to evaluate: Western Australian orthopaedic surgeons’ perceptions about surgical indications; utility of physical examination tests; findings at surgery predictive of outcome and surgeon opinion of a successful surgical outcome.

Methods

An anonymous rotator cuff survey, previously reported by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, was emailed to all surgeons listed with the Australian Orthopaedic Association in Western Australian. Surgeons who treated patients for rotator cuff disease during the previous 12 months were invited to complete the rotator cuff survey and five additional questions were included to capture the above criteria of interest.

Results

Within a close community of surgeons based in Western Australia (n = 23) considerable heterogeneity exists in surgical decision‐making criteria. A successful surgical outcome was considered to include reduced pain levels, restoration of movement and function and gains in muscle strength.

Conclusions

Research is required to inform robust clinical practice guidelines for rotator cuff surgery. Identification of prognostic factors for successful surgical outcome is imperative.
Students as collaborators in creating meaningful learning experiences in technology‐enhanced classrooms: An engaged scholarship approach
Authors: Nel Liezel
Published: February 2017

In dealing with numerous challenges, higher education instructors need to adapt their pedagogical practices to present students with meaningful, engaged learning experiences that are likely to promote student success and adequately prepare students for the world we live in. As part of this pedagogical transformation instructors also need to consider the potential of digital technologies to assist flexible pedagogies, as well as the role that students can play as partners in transforming the learning process (C. Evans, D. Muijs, & M. Tomlinson. Engaged student learning: high‐impact strategies to enhance student achievement. York: Higher Education Academy, , p. 9). In this paper the author reflects on her particular engaged scholarship approach and the important role that her students—as collaborators in the pedagogical transformation process—have played in the creation of meaningful technology‐enhanced learning experiences. She describes the evolution of her action inquiry approach over more than a decade and uses one particular project to highlight the value that student voice can contribute to pedagogical transformation. She also underscores the value of a “design for partnership” approach that can be incorporated as an underlying pedagogical approach to facilitate the creation of meaningful learning experiences in a technology‐enhanced teaching and learning environment.
Opportunities for the repurposing of PARP inhibitors for the therapy of non‐oncological diseases
Authors: Berger Nathan A , Besson Valerie C , Boulares A Hamid , Bürkle Alexander , Chiarugi Alberto , Clark Robert S , Curtin Nicola J , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Dawson Ted M , Dawson Valina L , Haskó György , Liaudet Lucas , Moroni Flavio , Pacher Pál , Radermacher Peter , Salzman Andrew L , Snyder Solomon H , Soriano Francisco Garcia , Strosznajder Robert P , Sümegi Balázs , Swanson Raymond A , Szabo Csaba
Published: February 2017

The recent clinical availability of the PARP inhibitor olaparib (Lynparza) opens the door for potential therapeutic repurposing for non‐oncological indications. Considering (a) the preclinical efficacy data with PARP inhibitors in non‐oncological diseases and (b) the risk–benefit ratio of treating patients with a compound that inhibits an enzyme that has physiological roles in the regulation of DNA repair, we have selected indications, where (a) the severity of the disease is high, (b) the available therapeutic options are limited, and (c) the duration of PARP inhibitor administration could be short, to provide first‐line options for therapeutic repurposing. These indications are as follows: acute ischaemic stroke; traumatic brain injury; septic shock; acute pancreatitis; and severe asthma and severe acute lung injury. In addition, chronic, devastating diseases, where alternative therapeutic options cannot halt disease development (e.g. Parkinson's disease, progressive multiple sclerosis or severe fibrotic diseases), should also be considered. We present a preclinical and clinical action plan for the repurposing of PARP inhibitors.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Inventing New Therapies Without Reinventing the Wheel: The Power of Drug Repurposing. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.2/issuetoc
Targeting phosphodiesterase 5 as a therapeutic option against myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury and for treating heart failure
Authors: Korkmaz‐Icöz Sevil , Radovits Tamás , Szabó Gábor
Published: February 2017

Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) selectively hydrolyses the second messenger cGMP into 5′‐GMP, thereby regulating its intracellular concentrations. Dysregulation of the cGMP‐dependent pathway plays a significant role in various cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, its modulation by drugs, such as PDE5 inhibitors, may represent an effective therapeutic approach. There are currently four PDE5 inhibitors available for the treatment of erectile dysfunction: sildenafil, vardenafil, tadalafil and avanafil. Sildenafil and tadalafil have also received Food and Drug Administration approval for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. This review summarizes the pharmacological aspects and clinical potential of PDE5 inhibition for the treatment of myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury and heart failure.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Inventing New Therapies Without Reinventing the Wheel: The Power of Drug Repurposing. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.2/issuetoc
Utilizing melatonin to combat bacterial infections and septic injury
Authors: Hu Wei , Deng Chao , Ma Zhiqiang , Wang Dongjin , Fan Chongxi , Li Tian , Di Shouyin , Gong Bing , Reiter Russel J , Yang Yang
Published: February 2017

Melatonin, also known as N‐acetyl‐5‐methoxytryptamine, is a ubiquitously acting molecule that is produced by the pineal gland and other organs of animals, including humans. As melatonin and its metabolites are potent antioxidants and free radical scavengers, they are protective against a variety of disorders. Moreover, multiple molecular targets of melatonin have been identified, and its actions are both receptor‐mediated and receptor‐independent. Recent studies have shown that melatonin may be useful in fighting against sepsis and septic injury due to its antioxidative and anti‐inflammatory actions; the results generally indicate a promising therapeutic application for melatonin in the treatment of sepsis. To provide a comprehensive understanding regarding the protective effects of melatonin against septic injury, in the present review we have evaluated the published literature in which melatonin has been used to treat experimental and clinical sepsis. Firstly, we present the evidence from studies that have used melatonin to resist bacterial pathogens. Secondly, we illustrate the protective effect of melatonin against septic injury and discuss the possible mechanisms. Finally, the potential directions for future melatonin research against sepsis are summarized.
Zebrafish models in neuropsychopharmacology and CNS drug discovery
Authors: Khan Kanza M , Collier Adam D , Meshalkina Darya A , Kysil Elana V , Khatsko Sergey L , Kolesnikova Tatyana , Morzherin Yury Yu , Warnick Jason E , Kalueff Allan V , Echevarria David J
Published: February 2017

Despite the high prevalence of neuropsychiatric disorders, their aetiology and molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is increasingly utilized as a powerful animal model in neuropharmacology research and in vivo drug screening. Collectively, this makes zebrafish a useful tool for drug discovery and the identification of disordered molecular pathways. Here, we discuss zebrafish models of selected human neuropsychiatric disorders and drug‐induced phenotypes. As well as covering a broad range of brain disorders (from anxiety and psychoses to neurodegeneration), we also summarize recent developments in zebrafish genetics and small molecule screening, which markedly enhance the disease modelling and the discovery of novel drug targets.
Identity Formation in Adolescence: The Dynamic of Forming and Consolidating Identity Commitments
Authors: Crocetti Elisabetta
Published: February 2017

The biological, cognitive, and social changes that occur in adolescence stimulate young people to think about themselves, reflect on the kind of people they want to become, and find their place in society. Traditionally, these changes have been explained by Erikson's theory and Marcia's identity status model, but process‐oriented models of identity provide new insights. In particular, dual‐cycle models, such as the three‐factor identity model, focus on the dynamic process by which young people iteratively form and maintain their identity over time. This iterative process is captured by the interplay of commitment, in‐depth exploration, and reconsideration of commitment, as well as by distinct identity statuses. Furthermore, the extent to which adolescents find a stable identity is intertwined strongly with their psychosocial functioning and well‐being.
Social‐Emotional Competence: An Essential Factor for Promoting Positive Adjustment and Reducing Risk in School Children
Authors: Domitrovich Celene E. , Durlak Joseph A. , Staley Katharine C. , Weissberg Roger P.
Published: February 2017

Social‐emotional competence is a critical factor to target with universal preventive interventions that are conducted in schools because the construct (a) associates with social, behavioral, and academic outcomes that are important for healthy development; (b) predicts important life outcomes in adulthood; (c) can be improved with feasible and cost‐effective interventions; and (d) plays a critical role in the behavior change process. This article reviews this research and what is known about effective intervention approaches. Based on that, an intervention model is proposed for how schools should enhance the social and emotional learning of students in order to promote resilience. Suggestions are also offered for how to support implementation of this intervention model at scale.
Longitudinal Relations Among Parenting Styles, Prosocial Behaviors, and Academic Outcomes in U.S. Mexican Adolescents
Authors: Carlo Gustavo , White Rebecca M. B. , Streit Cara , Knight George P. , Zeiders Katharine H.
Published: February 2017

This article examined parenting styles and prosocial behaviors as longitudinal predictors of academic outcomes in U.S. Mexican youth. Adolescents (N = 462; Wave 1 Mage = 10.4 years; 48.1% girls), parents, and teachers completed parenting, prosocial behavior, and academic outcome measures at 5th, 10th, and 12th grades. Authoritative parents were more likely to have youth who exhibited high levels of prosocial behaviors than those who were moderately demanding and less involved. Fathers and mothers who were less involved and mothers who were moderately demanding were less likely than authoritative parents to have youth who exhibited high levels of prosocial behaviors. Prosocial behaviors were positively associated with academic outcomes. Discussion focuses on parenting, prosocial behaviors, and academic attitudes in understanding youth academic performance.
Rituals Improve Children's Ability to Delay Gratification
Authors: Rybanska Veronika , McKay Ryan , Jong Jonathan , Whitehouse Harvey
Published: February 2017

To be accepted into social groups, individuals must internalize and reproduce appropriate group conventions, such as rituals. The copying of such rigid and socially stipulated behavioral sequences places heavy demands on executive function. Given previous research showing that challenging executive functioning improves it, it was hypothesized that engagement in ritualistic behaviors improves children's executive functioning, in turn improving their ability to delay gratification. A 3‐month circle time games intervention with 210 schoolchildren (Mage = 7.78 years, SD = 1.47) in two contrasting cultural environments (Slovakia and Vanuatu) was conducted. The intervention improved children's executive function and in turn their ability to delay gratification. Moreover, these effects were amplified when the intervention task was imbued with ritual, rather than instrumental, cues.
Confirming the recessive inheritance of SCN1B mutations in developmental epileptic encephalopathy
Authors: Ramadan W. , Patel N. , Anazi S. , Kentab A.Y. , Bashiri F.A. , Hamad M.H. , Jad L. , Salih M.A. , Alsaif H. , Hashem M. , Faqeih E. , Shamseddin H.E. , Alkuraya F.S.
Published: February 2017

Dominant SCN1B mutations are known to cause several epilepsy syndromes in humans. Only 2 epilepsy patients to date have been reported to have recessive mutations in SCN1B as the likely cause of their phenotype. Here, we confirm the recessive inheritance of 2 novel SCN1B mutations in 5 children from 3 families with developmental epileptic encephalopathy. The recessive inheritance and early death in these patients is consistent with the Dravet‐like phenotype observed in Scn1b−/− mice. The ‘negative’ clinical exome in one of these families highlights the need to consider recessive mutations in the interpretation of variants in typically dominant genes.
Peri‐implant bone remodeling at the interface of three different implant types: a histomorphometric study in mini‐pigs
Authors: Zhou Wenjuan , Kuderer Sonja , Liu Zhonghao , Ulm Christian , Rausch‐Fan Xiaohui , Tangl Stefan
Published: February 2017

Objectives

The aim of this study was to perform a histomorphometric evaluation of the healing characteristics and jawbone remodeling processes in the peri‐implant bone tissue of three commonly used implant surfaces, during the early weeks of osseointegration.

Material and methods

Dental implants with three different surfaces (anodically modified, hydroxyapatite (HA)‐coated and machined) were inserted into the mandibular side‐tooth region of twelve adult mini‐pigs. Histomorphometric analyses were performed to evaluate remodeling processes 3, 6 and 12 weeks post‐implantation.

Results

Only a few very early bone remodeling–resorption sites were found at 3 weeks. After 6 weeks, additional signs of remodeling‐related reversal and bone formation were detectable in all three groups, which steadily increased until 12 weeks. At the latter time point, the amount of remodeled bone was significantly higher for the anodized and HA‐coated surfaces than for the machined implants.

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrate that peri‐implant bone remodeling can start as early as 3 weeks after implantation and continues at a substantial level up to 12 weeks. The anodic modification or HA coating of implant surfaces appears to accelerate the conversion of primary regenerated bone into more mature secondary lamellar bone. If this observation is of clinical relevance, it has to be clarified in studies that include longer observational time periods.
SALARY INEQUALITY, TEAM SUCCESS, LEAGUE POLICIES, AND THE SUPERSTAR EFFECT
Authors: Cyrenne Philippe
Published: February 2017

Using a simple model of a team's salary distribution and data from the recent Collective Bargaining Agreement between players and owners in the National Hockey League, I examine the relationship between a team's salary distribution and its winning percentage. I find that teams with higher relative payrolls and lower salary inequality have higher winning percentages. I also find evidence of a superstar effect, in that teams with a higher maximum player salary have higher winning percentages. The results are sensitive, however, to the particular measure of salary inequality used as well as the endogeneity of the salary distribution. (JEL Z22, L83, J52, C33, C26)
Cytotoxic effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles on murine photoreceptor cells via potassium channel block and Na+/K+‐ATPase inhibition
Authors: Chen Chao , Bu Wenjuan , Ding Hongyan , Li Qin , Wang Dabo , Bi Hongsheng , Guo Dadong
Published: February 2017

Objective

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles can exhibit toxicity towards organisms and oxidative stress is often hypothesized to be one of the most important factors. Nevertheless, the detailed mechanism of toxicity‐induced by ZnO nanoparticles has not been completely addressed. The present study aimed to investigate the toxic effects of ZnO nanoparticles on the expression and activity of Na+/K+‐ATPase and on potassium channel block.

Materials and methods

In the present study, we explored the cytotoxic effect of ZnO nanoparticles on murine photoreceptor cells using lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assay, reactive oxygen species (ROS) determination, mitochondrial membrane potential (Δφm) measurement, delayed rectifier potassium current recordings and Na+/K+‐ATPase expression and activity monitoring.

Results

The results indicated that ZnO nanoparticles could increase the LDH release in medium, aggravate the ROS level within cells, collapse the Δφm, block the delayed rectifier potassium current, and attenuate the expressions of Na+/K+‐ATPase at both mRNA and protein levels and its activity, and thus exert cytotoxic effects on murine photoreceptor cells, finally damaging target cells.

Conclusion

Our findings will facilitate the understanding of the mechanism involved in ZnO nanoparticle‐induced cytotoxicity in murine photoreceptor cells via potassium channel block and Na+/K+‐ATPase inhibition.
Squamous cell carcinoma of the lung associated with non‐invasive aspergillosis and localised and peripheral blood eosinophilia
Authors: Enoki E. , Kimura M. , Yaguchi T.
Published: February 2017

There have been sporadic reports of lung carcinomas associated with Aspergillus and this association may be more common than previously realized. However, to date, only one case has reported of eosinophilia in cytologic specimens and peripheral blood along with the co‐existence of lung carcinoma and Aspergillus. We present here a case of squamous cell carcinoma of the lung associated with non‐invasive aspergillosis and localized and peripheral blood eosinophilia.
Krankheitsverlauf, medizinische Versorgung und Lebensqualität von Patienten mit kongenitalen melanozytären Nävi – Auswertung des deutschsprachigen KMN‐Registers
Authors: Wramp Maria Elisabeth , Langenbruch Anna , Augustin Matthias , Zillikens Detlef , Krengel Sven
Published: February 2017

Hintergrund

Kongenitale melanozytäre Nävi (KMN) bedeuten für Patienten und Familien eine psychologische Belastung und bergen zudem medizinische Risiken. Das 2005 gegründete deutschsprachige KMN‐Register wurde nun einer Zwischenauswertung bezüglich des Krankheitsverlaufes, der medizinischen Versorgung und der Lebensqualität unterzogen.

Patienten und Methodik

100 Patienten, die sich in den Jahren 2005 bis 2012 mit einem Erstmeldebogen registriert hatten, wurde im Rahmen einer prospektiven Kohortenstudie Anfang 2013 ein Folgemeldebogen zugesandt. Außerdem wurden mithilfe standardisierter Fragebögen Daten zu Lebensqualität (dermatology life quality index, DLQI) und Stigmatisierungserfahrungen (perceived stigmatization questionnaire, PSQ; social comfort questionnaire, SCQ) erhoben.

Ergebnisse

83 % der Patienten oder deren Eltern antworteten (Altersdurchschnitt 11,2 Jahre, Median 6 Jahre; mittleres Follow‐up 4,4 Jahre). Im Gesamtkollektiv wurden vier Melanome diagnostiziert, davon zwei zerebrale Melanome im Kindesalter, ein kutanes Melanom im Erwachsenenalter und eines, das sich als proliferierender Knoten erwies. Bei vier Kindern wurde eine neurokutane Melanozytose festgestellt, drei davon mit neurologischer Symptomatik. Chirurgisch behandelt wurden 88 % (73/83). Achtundsiebzig Prozent der Befragten berichteten eine geringe oder keine Beeinträchtigung der Lebensqualität. Die wahrgenommene Stigmatisierung beziehungsweise Beeinträchtigung des sozialen Wohlbefindens war generell ebenfalls gering.

Schlussfolgerungen

Die Ergebnisse geben einen Überblick über die Situation von Patienten mit KMN in Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz. Ein Melanom entwickelte sich in 3 %, eine ZNS‐Beteiligung bestand in 4 % der Fälle.
Treatment preferences for biologicals in psoriasis: experienced patients appreciate sustainability
Authors: Kromer Christian , Peitsch Wiebke K. , Herr Raphael , Schmieder Astrid , Sonntag Diana , Schaarschmidt Marthe‐Lisa
Published: February 2017

Background and objectives

Treatment satisfaction can be improved by integrating patients’ preferences into shared decision‐making. We recently investigated patients’ preferences for attributes of biologicals, and showed high preferences for safety and efficacy. The objective of the present study was to assess the impact of treatment experience on these preferences.

Patients and methods

Preferences for outcome (probability of 50 % and 90 % improvement, time until response, sustainability of success, probability of mild and severe adverse events, probability of ACR 20 response) and process attributes (treatment location, frequency, duration, and delivery method) were analyzed in 200 participants with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis using conjoint analysis. The impact of current and previous therapies, disease duration, and treatment satisfaction on ‘Relative Importance Scores’ was determined by analysis of variance, post hoc tests, and multivariate regression.

Results

Participants presently on topical therapy (p = 0.02) or phototherapy (p = 0.032) placed more importance on treatment duration than others. Individuals who had previously been given traditional systemic agents (p = 0.028) or biologicals (p = 0.044) favored sustainability more than others. With an increasing number of systemic agents ever received (p = 0.045) and longer disease duration (p = 0.018), the latter attribute became increasingly important.

Conclusions

Patients’ preferences for biologicals vary in correlation with treatment experience and disease duration, aspects to be addressed in the context of shared decision‐making.
Prä‐ und perioperative Aspekte der Versorgung dermatochirurgischer Patienten
Authors: Müller Cornelia S. L. , Hubner Wakiko , Thieme‐Ruffing Sigrid , Pföhler Claudia , Vogt Thomas , Volk Thomas , Gärtner Barbara C. , Bialas Patric
Published: February 2017

Die Dermatochirurgie nimmt hinsichtlich vieler Punkte eine Sonderstellung unter den operativen Fächern ein. Hierzu gehört in erster Linie die Tatsache, dass bis auf wenige Ausnahmen fast alle Eingriffe traditionell in Lokal‐ bzw. Regionalanästhesie und oft auch in räumlich‐infrastruktureller Trennung von den großen Zentral‐Operationssälen stattfinden können. Die peri‐ und postoperative Überwachung obliegt dabei dem dermatochirurgischen Operationsteam. Das sui generis kleinere OP‐Team hat somit eine ganze Reihe perioperativer Notwendigkeiten zu beachten, um die sich in den „großen“ chirurgischen Fächern eine Vielzahl verschiedener beteiligter Fachgruppen gemeinsam kümmern. Hierzu gehören neben Hygieneaspekten, Kenntnissen in der Überwachung der Patienten sowie dem Aspekt der surgical site infections auch Fragen zur postoperativen Schmerztherapie sowie detailliertes pharmakologisches Wissen über die zur Anwendung kommenden Lokalanästhetika und das Handling der damit assoziierten toxischen und allergischen Reaktionen. Eine interdisziplinäre Zusammenarbeit und Verantwortung für den Patienten ist notwendig und erfordert die Erarbeitung und Umsetzung qualitätsorientierter und evidenzbasierter Handlungsanweisungen, die im dermatochirurgischen OP‐Setting meist weit über das eigentliche Fach hinausgehen. Ziel dieses Weiterbildungsartikels soll die komprimierte Darstellung der genannten fachübergreifenden Standpunkte bezüglich der wichtigsten perioperativen Aspekte sein.
Update: Treatment of necrobiosis lipoidica
Authors: Peckruhn Melanie , Tittelbach Jörg , Elsner Peter
Published: February 2017

Necrobiosis lipoidica (NL) is a rare granulomatous disease of hitherto unclear etiology frequently seen in patients with diabetes. Characterized by its potential for ulcerations, it often presents a serious burden for those affected. There are currently neither German nor European guidelines for the treatment of NL. At the same time, standard treatment with topical or intralesional corticosteroids does not always show satisfactory results. We therefore set out to evaluate whether the various treatment regimens published since 2000 have actually expanded the therapeutic armamentarium in a relevant manner. Included were all publications that described more than one patient being treated with any given therapeutic modality. Overall, we analyzed data for 16 different treatment regimens reported in 49 publications.

The largest amount of data exists for topical PUVA therapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT), and systemic treatment with fumaric acid esters. Remarkably, our analysis showed that with an increase in the number of documented patients treated with a given therapeutic modality, the proportion of those achieving a complete or partial response actually decreased. This was interpreted as publication bias. Thus, no clear recommendation can be given for second‐line therapy in case topical or intralesional corticosteroids fail.
Poverty–Environment Nexus in the Lao PDR: Analysis of Household Survey Data
Authors: Pasanen Tytti , Lakkala Hanna , Yliluoma Riikka , Tuominen Visa , Jusi Sari , Luukkanen Jyrki , Kaivo‐oja Jari
Published: February 2017

The results of the household survey (n=1602) analysis suggest that a poverty–environment nexus exists in the Lao PDR but the nexus depends on the environmental problem. The most explicit relations were those between poverty and using fuelwood for cooking, and poverty and access to safe drinking water, whereas recent negative changes regarding deforestation and land erosion exhibited only a weak connection. Outdoor air pollution was the most common problem experienced, although no connection to poverty was found. The two most common recent improvements were related to indoor air quality and sanitation, and they had been more prevalent for wealthier households.
Tuned protection of aphids by ants against a predatory hoverfly
Authors: DETRAIN CLAIRE , FICHAUX MELANIE , VERHEGGEN FRANÇOIS
Published: February 2017

1. Aphid‐tending ants that feed on honeydew have evolved strategies against aphidophagous insects and tune their aggressive behaviour according to the level of danger for their trophobionts. Here we investigate howLasius nigerLinnaeus (Hymenoptera:Formicidae) ants react to different instars ofEpisyrphus balteatusDeGeer (Diptera:Syrphidae) hoverflies which vary in their voracity and defensive abilities.

2. During pairwise encounters, early syrphid instars (eggs,L1,andL2larvae) elicited lower aggression scores compared to third larval instars (L3), which was intensively bitten by ants.L3tried to escape from ants by releasing a sticky and toxic secretion over biting ants that died or underwent severe morbidity.

3. In a standardised system including the host plant, aphid, tending ant, and hoverfly, the ability of ants to protect anAphis fabaeScopoli (Hemiptera:Aphididae) colony was evaluated. EarlyE. balteatusinstars placed onto the plant elicited no mobilisation of ants, which often removed the hoverfly successfully. Eggs and early instars appeared as the weak links for integrated pest management by hoverfly auxiliaries.

4. In contrast,L3induced the number of ant patrollers to increase at a local scale without any further recruitment from inside the ant nest.L3syrphids were quite efficient at gluing ants with defensive secretions and at resisting to removal attempts by ants.

5. While supporting the assumption that ants tune their defensive response to the aphidophagous predator, the present results also showed a lack of efficient protection of their trophobionts from the most voracious late syrphid instar.
Flight dimorphism is related to survival, reproduction and mating success in the leaf beetle Oreina cacaliae
Authors: KALBERER NICOLE M. , KÖLLIKER MATHIAS
Published: February 2017

1. Alternative life histories may be maintained in populations due to variation in the costs and benefits of the underlying strategies. In this study, potential costs of dispersal by flight were investigated as an alternative life‐history strategy in the mountain‐living chrysomelid beetle Oreina cacaliae.

2. In this species, previous mark–recapture studies showed a dispersal dimorphism in both males and females. While a fraction of the population engages in flight in autumn and spring (in the following referred to as ‘flyers’), the other part does not fly (non‐flyers). Flyers emerge earlier than non‐flyers and feed on a spring host plant before the emergence of the main host plant.

3. In this study, the overwintering and dispersal locations were recorded over 7 years in the field, flyers from the spring host plant were collected, and morphology and lifetime reproductive output and survival of collected flyers and non‐flyers were compared.

4. A potential trade‐off between flight and life‐history traits was observed: flyers were smaller in size, lighter in body mass, had a lower lifetime fecundity and a higher mortality.

5. Mating experiments of field‐caught beetles in the laboratory showed that larger beetles had a higher (multiple) mating success, but there was no evidence for size‐assortative mating. It is hypothesized that one reason for small beetles to disperse by flight might be to escape competition for mates with larger non‐flyers.

6. The overwhelming quantity of beetles found on the spring host every year reveals that the flying strategy is successful, despite the costs and risks.
Impact of dexamethasone in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage
Authors: Czorlich P. , Sauvigny T. , Ricklefs F. , Abboud T. , Nierhaus A. , Vettorazzi E. , Reuter D. A. , Regelsberger J. , Westphal M. , Schmidt N. O.
Published: February 2017

Background and purpose

The role of corticosteroids in the treatment of patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) has remained controversial for decades. Recent studies have suggested that the administration of corticosteroids in SAH patients is associated with favourable outcomes. Given their significant adverse effects, it is essential to identify those patients who will benefit from treatment with corticosteroids.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected cohort (n = 306) with SAH who were treated by microsurgical clipping or endovascular intervention was performed. The role of dexamethasone administration was analysed with regard to clinical conditions and SAH‐related complications. Outcome was assessed at discharge and during follow‐up using the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS).

Results

Patients treated with dexamethasone presented with more episodes of hyperglycaemia (P < 0.001), more overall infections (P < 0.001) and more ventriculostomy‐related infections (P = 0.004). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that treatment with dexamethasone was associated with an unfavourable outcome at discharge (GOS 1–3) [odds ratio (OR) 2.814, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.440–5.497, P = 0.002]. In the subgroup of microsurgically treated patients, dexamethasone administration was associated with a favourable outcome at follow‐up (OR 0.193, 95% CI 0.06–0.621, P = 0.006). A higher risk for unfavourable outcome (OR 3.382, 95% CI 1.67–6.849, P = 0.001) at discharge was observed in endovascularly treated patients who received dexamethasone but this had no impact on the outcome at follow‐up.

Conclusions

Treatment with dexamethasone seems to be associated with a risk reduction for an unfavourable outcome in those patients who underwent microsurgical clipping. Despite an increased frequency of adverse effects, glucocorticoids may have a potential benefit in this specific surgical subgroup compared to endovascularly treated SAH patients.