bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disrupted spiculogenesis in deep‐water Geodiidae (Porifera, Demospongiae) growing in shallow waters
Authors: Cárdenas Paco , Rapp Hans Tore
Published: August 2013

Environmental conditions can affect the morphology and distribution of sponges. In particular, depth is known to influence the morphology of shallow‐water sponges; however, the influence of depth on deep‐water sponges has never been investigated. Although boreal Geodiidae (Demospongiae, Astrophorida) are deep‐water species, in fjords and along the Norwegian coast Geodia barretti, G. simplicissima, and Pachymatisma normani can occasionally be found at shallow depths (20–40 m). In this study, we examine new shallow specimens from the Norwegian coast to compare their morphological and molecular characteristics with those of their deep‐water counterparts. Morphology was studied at the level of the organism, skeletal organization, and the spicules, and a fragment of the cytochrome oxidase 1 gene was sequenced for shallow and deep specimens. Twelve specimens of Geodia spp. and five specimens of P. normani were collected in shallow waters. The majority of the Geodia spp. were identified as G. simplicissima, a species that has not been reported since its original description in 1931. However, we propose that G. simplicissima, only found in shallow waters, is a junior synonym of G. barretti. When comparing shallow and deep‐water specimens of G. barretti and P. normani, we found phenotypic differences with respect to color, external morphology, cortex organization, and, above all, spicule morphology. In shallow specimens, microrhabds, sterrasters, and triaenes were smaller and irregular or underdeveloped. Oxyasters and strongylasters were normal in form, but smaller. We hypothesize that the lower silica concentration in shallow waters is primarily responsible for the disruption of spiculogenesis in shallow‐water specimens of G. barretti and P. normani. The underdeveloped sterrasters observed in shallow‐water specimens provide new insights into the formation of these particular microscleres. Finally, we discuss how the colonization of shallow waters by deep‐water sponges may have strongly influenced spicule evolution and speciation.
Quantitative measures of gastrovascular flow in octocorals and hydroids: toward a comparative biology of transport systems in cnidarians
Authors: Harmata Katherine L. , Parrin Austin P. , Morrison Patrick R. , McConnell Kristin K. , Bross Lori S. , Blackstone Neil W.
Published: August 2013

Using microscopy, the gastrovascular systems of four hydroids (Eirene viridula, Cordylophora lacustris, Hydractinia symbiolongicarpus, and Podocoryna carnea) and two distantly related alcyonacean octocorals (Acrossota amboinensis and Sarcothelia sp.) were examined and compared within a phylogenetic framework. Despite a range of stolon widths (means 53–160 μm), the hydroid species exhibited similar patterns of gastrovascular flow: sequentially bidirectional flow in the stolons, driven by myoepithelial contractions emanating from the center of the colony. Unlike the hydroids, the gastrovascular system of A. amboinensis (mean stolon widths for 5 colonies, 0.57–1.21 mm) exhibited simultaneously bidirectional flow with incomplete, medial baffles (width 4–20 μm) separating the flow. Baffles visualized with transmission electron microscopy consisted of endoderm, mesoglea, and occasionally another layer of tissue. Mean flow rates of the gastrovascular fluid for seven stolons ranged from 125 to 275 μm s−1, with maximum rates of 225–700 μm s−1. In Sarcothelia sp., stolons were of comparable width (means for 13 colonies 0.55–1.4 mm) to those of A. amboinensis. These stolons, however, were divided by several partitions (width 8–25 μm), both complete and incomplete, which were spaced every 100.5±5.1 μm (mean±SE; range 27.1–283.7 μm) and appeared structurally similar to baffles. In lanes defined by these partitions, ciliary motion was visible in image sequences, and flow was unidirectional. Within a single stolon, flow moved in different directions in different lanes and changed direction by moving from lane to lane via occasional spaces between the partitions. Mean flow rates for 30 stolons ranged from 75 to 475 μm s−1, with maximum rates of 85–775 μm s−1. For both octocorals, flow rates of the gastrovascular fluid were not correlated with the width of the stolon lumen. While octocoral gastrovascular systems probably exhibit differences based on phylogenetic affinities, in all species studied thus far, gastrovascular flow is entirely driven by cilia, in contrast to the hydroid taxa.
Derived sperm morphology in the interstitial sea cucumber Rhabdomolgus ruber, with observations on oogenesis and spawning behavior
Authors: Eckelbarger Kevin J. , Riser Nathan W.
Published: August 2013

Some life history features of the interstitial sea cucumber Rhabdomolgus ruber are described from intertidal specimens collected from the northern coast of Maine. Histological studies suggest that the population consists of hermaphrodites with gametogenesis being initiated in April and reproduction beginning in May and continuing through the summer months. Sexually mature adults possess a single, blind‐ended gonadal tubule that functions as an ovotestis by producing both eggs and sperm. The ovotestis wall consists of an outer peritoneum composed of flagellated epithelial cells and muscles; an inner germinal epithelium of germ and somatic cells; and a middle connective tissue (hemal) compartment bounded by the basal laminas of the peritoneum and germinal epithelium. During the reproductive season, the gonadal tubule contains all stages of oocyte development. Vitellogenesis appears to involve the biosynthetic activities of the Golgi complex and rough endoplasmic reticulum. A few specimens had transitional ovotestes with mature sperm in the gonad lumen and asynchronously developing oocytes and a small number of spermatocytes within the germinal epithelium. The mature spermatozoon is an ent‐aquasperm with ultrastructural features significantly different from those described from other echinoderm classes including a highly elongated acrosome, a large periacrosomal region between the acrosome and nucleus, numerous unfused mitochondria in the midpiece, and a cytoplasmic sleeve or collar extending posteriorly along the proximal portion of the flagellum. The sperm head reaches 11.5 μm in length (combined midpiece, nucleus, periacrosomal region, acrosome), making it the longest yet reported from the Holothuroidea and among the longest in the Echinodermata. Some elements of this derived morphology could be attributed to fertilization biology, but others may have phylogenetic significance. Spawning behavior was observed in which two individuals appeared to pseudocopulate by intertwining their oral tentacles for several minutes before one of them abruptly secreted an egg mass containing three eggs.
Sand martin (Riparia riparia) populations in south‐west Scania, Sweden, 1964 to 1984
Authors: Persson Christer
Published: August 2013

The breeding Sand martins of a census area covering c. 1075 km2 in Scania, southern Sweden, have been counted between 1964 and 1984. Owing to natural barriers (sea, wooded mountain) the study population is practically self‐contained. The average density figure of the census area, 2.54 pairs/km2, should be valid for as much as 2,500 km2 of south‐west Scania.

During the same period the population has exhibited a remarkably consistent pattern of fluctuation that suggests a stable limit cycle with a period of c. 11 years. Populationand colony developments conform. The cyclic pattern may apply to a much larger area than southern Scania.
Electrospun ZnO Nanofibers‐Based Ultraviolet Detector with High Responsivity
Authors: Zhu Linghui , Gu Xuehui , Qu Fengdong , Zhang Jiaqi , Feng Caihui , Zhou Jingran , Ruan Shengping , Kang Bonan
Published: August 2013

In this report, a metal–semiconductor–metal (MSM) ultraviolet photodetector based on ZnO nanofiber film with Au electrodes was demonstrated. The ZnO nanofibers were synthesized via effective electrospinning process and characterized by means of XRD, SEM, XPS, and UV–visible absorption spectra. At 5 V bias, the dark current of the device was 17.8 nA. Under the irradiation of 260 nm ultraviolet light, the photocurrent could reach 11.5 μA and a high responsivity of 790 A/W was achieved due to the large internal gain. The mechanism of the high internal photoconductive gain was discussed in the article. The experiment presented a general and simple approach to integrate electrospun nanomaterials into photodevices directly.
Relaxor Characteristics of the Phase Transformation in (1 − x)BaTiO3–xBi(Zn1/2Ti1/2)O3 Perovskite Ceramics
Authors: Triamnak Narit , Yimnirun Rattikorn , Pokorny Jan , Cann David P.
Published: August 2013

The single‐phase solid solutions of the (1 − x)BaTiO3–(x)Bi(Zn1/2Ti1/2)O3 (BT–BZT) where x = 0.02–0.15 were prepared to investigate dielectric properties. Crystal structure of samples was obtained by using an X‐ray diffraction technique and Raman spectroscopy. For compositions with x ≤ 0.08, the solid solutions exhibited clear tetragonal symmetry and transitioned to pseudocubic symmetry as the content of BZT increased. The dielectric response exhibited a sharp phase transition within the BT‐rich region and the composition 0.92BT–0.08BZT was characterized by the onset of relaxor characteristics. As the concentration of BZT increased, the phase transition exhibited broader and more diffuse behavior. The polarization as a function of electric field (P–E) of these solid solutions also exhibited the same trend. The BT‐rich compositions showed a normal ferroelectric P–E response with a decrease in loop area as the BZT content increased. The composition at x = 0.08 exhibited a pinched hysteresis loop and with further increase in BZT content, the P–E response was characterized by slim loops.
Control of Electrical Resistivity in Silicon Carbide Ceramics Sintered with Aluminum Nitride and Yttria
Authors: Kim Kwang Joo , Lim Kwang‐Young , Kim Young‐Wook
Published: August 2013

The electrical properties of β‐SiC ceramics were found to be adjustable through appropriate AlN–Y2O3 codoping. Polycrystalline β‐SiC specimens were obtained by hot pressing silicon carbide (SiC) powder mixtures containing AlN and Y2O3 as sintering additives in a nitrogen atmosphere. The electrical resistivity of the SiC specimens, which exhibited n‐type character, increased with AlN doping and decreased with Y2O3 doping. The increase in resistivity is attributed to Al‐derived acceptors trapping carriers excited from the N‐derived donors. The results suggest that the electrical resistivity of the β‐SiC ceramics may be varied in the 104–10−3 Ω·cm range by manipulating the compensation of the two impurity states. The photoluminescence (PL) spectrum of the specimens was found to evolve with the addition of dopants. The presence of N‐donor and Al‐acceptor states within the band gap of 3C–SiC could be identified by analyzing the PL data.
Uncertainty in distribution forecasts caused by taxonomic ambiguity under climate change scenarios: a case study with two newt species in mainland Spain
Authors: Romero David , Olivero Jesús , Márquez Ana Luz , Báez José C. , Real Raimundo
Published: August 2013

Aim

To analyse a source of uncertainty when forecasting the possible effects of climate change on species distributions, which may appear when the species studied have doubtful taxonomy or are subdivided into subspecies with different environmental requirements.

Location

Mainland Spain.

Methods

Iberian newts (Triturus pygmaeus and Triturus marmoratus, a recently identified species) were used as examples. Environmental favourability models were performed on the occurrence of the newts according to two taxonomic options: (1) the two species separately; and (2) the two species together, as they were considered a single species by taxonomists until recently. The models were projected to three time periods between 2011 and 2100 within a context of climate change, using two different general circulation models and two emission scenarios. We calculated the discrepancy between forecasts produced with the different taxonomic options and their consistency under the same climate change scenario.

Results

The model based on the two species together did not distinguish between particular environmental requirements of either of the two species. Discrepancy values between taxonomic options increased over time. A reduction in areas favourable to T. pygmaeus and its north‐eastward displacement were only predicted when this species was analysed separately. Nevertheless, the uncertainty derived from taxonomic ambiguity barely affected the predictions for T. marmoratus.

Main conclusions

Qualitatively and quantitatively different distribution forecasts for two newt species in mainland Spain were obtained depending on the taxonomic option considered. Taxonomic uncertainty also affected other sources of uncertainty. Some guidelines are suggested to aid in similar cases.
Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition‐related protein expression in biliary epithelial cells associated with hepatolithiasis
Authors: Sung Rohyun , Lee Sang Hwa , Ji Meiying , Han Joung‐Ho , Kang Min Ho , Kim Ji Hoon , Choi Jae‐Woon , Kim Young Chul , Park Seon Mee
Published: August 2013

Background and Aim

Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) of biliary epithelial cells (BECs) plays major roles in many cholangiopathies. This study evaluated whether EMT of BECs has a role in hepatolithiasis‐induced biliary fibrosis and types of BECs that are involved.

Methods

The expression of EMT‐related proteins and epidermal growth factor receptor was evaluated by immunohistochemistry of liver tissues from 102 patients with hepatolithiasis, 32 patients with post‐hepatitis cirrhosis, and 48 normal livers. Antibodies against E‐cadherin, β‐catenin, and cytokeratin were used to identify epithelial cells and antibodies against vimentin, S100A4, podoplanin, and α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) were used to identify mesenchymal cells. The relationship between clinical and histological parameters and immunohistochemistry findings in BECs, and the surrounding stroma were evaluated.

Results

Loss of E‐cadherin and acquisition of S100A4 and vimentin were observed in BECs. In all BECs, cytokeratin and β‐catenin expression were unchanged, while podoplanin and α‐SMA were not expressed. Although hepatic fibrosis was more severe in post‐hepatitis cirrhosis, EMT of BECs was more widespread in hepatolithiasis. In hepatolithiasis, EMT‐related proteins were more highly expressed in small bile ducts than in medium or large bile ducts. Their expression was associated with the severity of biliary fibrosis and the expressions of epidermal growth factor receptor. Expression of α‐SMA in fibroblasts from the portal space was closely linked to pathological changes in small bile ducts and EMT‐related protein expressions in BECs.

Conclusions

Proliferating cholangiocytes that form small bile ducts may contribute to cholangiopathies in hepatolithiasis through an EMT‐like phenomenon or through interactions with stromal myofibroblasts.
Does Reducing Length of Stay Increase Rehospitalization of Medicare Fee‐for‐Service Beneficiaries Discharged to Skilled Nursing Facilities?
Authors: Unruh Mark A. , Trivedi Amal N. , Grabowski David C. , Mor Vincent
Published: August 2013

Objectives

To analyze the relationship between length of stay and rehospitalization.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Six thousand five hundred thirty‐seven hospitals nationwide from January 1999 through September 2005.

Participants

Medicare fee‐for‐service beneficiaries associated with 2,101,481 hospitalizations.

Measurements

Thirty‐day rehospitalization derived from Medicare hospital claims using the implementation of Medicare's post‐acute care transfer policy as a quasi‐experiment.

Results

Medicare's post‐acute care transfer policy led to immediate declines in length of stay. A 1‐day decrease in length of stay was associated with an absolute increase in 30‐day rehospitalization of 1.56 percentage points (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.30–2.82) for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) with major complications and 0.81 percentage points (95% CI = 0.03–1.60) for kidney infection or urinary tract infection (UTI) without major complications. Individuals hospitalized for AMI without major complications, heart failure, or kidney infection or UTI with major complications had no increase in 30‐day rehospitalization.

Conclusion

A 1‐day reduction in hospital length of stay was not consistently associated with a higher rate of rehospitalization.
Impact of excessive occlusal load on successfully‐osseointegrated dental implants: a literature review
Authors: Chang Michael , Chronopoulos Vasileios , Mattheos Nikos
Published: August 2013

The aim of the present study was to review the available evidence on the response of the peri‐implant bone when subjected to excessive occlusal forces. The search strategy included papers published in English in the Medline database and the Wiley Online Library from January 1991 to December 2011. Experimental or review papers reporting the conditions of the peri‐implant bone of dental implants submitted to excessive occlusal loading in the presence of a controlled oral hygiene regime were eligible for inclusion. The knowledge regarding the response of the peri‐implant bone when the dental implant is excessively loaded is limited, and the level of evidence is poor. With animal experimental studies showing conflicting results, it is unclear whether occlusal overload might cause marginal bone loss or total loss of osseointegration to already osseointegrated dental implants when the applied load exceeds the biologically‐acceptable limit. This biological limit is also unknown. Furthermore, higher remodeling activity of the peri‐implant bone is found around implants subjected to high loading forces.
Using Total Material Requirement to Evaluate the Potential for Recyclability of Phosphorous in Steelmaking Dephosphorization Slag
Authors: Yamasue Eiji , Matsubae Kazuyo , Nakajima Kenichi , Hashimoto Seiji , Nagasaka Tetsuya
Published: August 2013

Urban ores can be classified into two types—those made up of items that were in the possession of consumers, such as end‐of‐life home appliances, and those that were not, such as manufacturing wastes. The dephosphorization slag generated at some steelmaking plants is an example of a manufacturing waste. In this study, the potential for this slag to become a new phosphorous resource is evaluated in terms of total material requirement (TMR). To do this, we compare two types of TMR—natural ore TMR (NO‐TMR) and urban ore TMR (UO‐TMR)—defined respectively as the TMR to obtain or recycle 1 kilogram of phosphoric acid from natural phosphate ore or dephosphorization slag.

In the dephosphorization slag process, the slag is magnetically separated into a phosphorous‐rich (PR) phase and an iron‐rich (IR) phase, and the phosphorous in the PR phase is subsequently converted to phosphoric acid. We included case studies that considered generation of potentially useful by‐products, such as phosphogypsum and the IR phase. The effect of declines in natural phosphate ore grade on the potential recyclability of phosphoric acid from dephosphorization slag was also explored. In addition, the effect of changes in the slag's contribution to the UO‐TMR of phosphoric acid was considered.

We found that, in many scenarios, the UO‐TMR for phosphoric acid was lower than its NO‐TMR. This indicates that dephosphorization slag has the potential to be a new phosphorous resource. We also found that recycling of the IR phase by recharging it to the blast furnace plays an important role in improving the potential feasibility of slag as a new phosphorous resource. The value of the slag stream, relative to the value of the pig iron stream, is also a key parameter, with low relative values improving the potential for production of phosphoric acid. Evaluating the UO‐TMR of materials recovered from manufacturing waste streams promises to be a useful tool for assessing the potential of these waste streams to serve as urban ores.
GalR3 activation promotes adult neural stem cell survival in response to a diabetic milieu
Authors: Mansouri Shiva , Barde Swapnali , Ortsäter Henrik , Eweida Mohamed , Darsalia Vladimer , Langel Ülo , Sjöholm Åke , Hökfelt Tomas , Patrone Cesare
Published: August 2013

Type 2 diabetes impairs adult neurogenesis which could play a role in the CNS complications of this serious disease. The goal of this study was to determine the potential role of galanin in protecting adult neural stem cells (NSCs) from glucolipotoxicity and to analyze whether apoptosis and the unfolded protein response were involved in the galanin‐mediated effect. We also studied the regulation of galanin and its receptor subtypes under diabetes in NSCs in vitro and in the subventricular zone (SVZ) in vivo. The viability of mouse SVZ‐derived NSCs and the involvement of apoptosis (Bcl‐2, cleaved caspase‐3) and unfolded protein response [C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) Glucose‐regulated protein 78/immunoglobulin heavy‐chain binding protein (GRP78/BiP), spliced X‐box binding protein 1 (XBP1), c‐Jun N‐terminal kinases (JNK) phosphorylation] were assessed in the presence of glucolipotoxic conditions after 24 h. The effect of diabetes on the regulation of galanin and its receptor subtypes was assessed on NSCs in vitro and in SVZ tissues isolated from normal and type 2 diabetes ob/ob mice. We show increased NSC viability following galanin receptor (GalR)3 activation. This protective effect correlated with decreased apoptosis and CHOP levels. We also report how galanin and its receptors are regulated by diabetes in vitro and in vivo. This study shows GalR3‐mediated neuroprotection, supporting a potential future therapeutic development, based on GalR3 activation, for the treatment of brain disorders.

image

Adult neurogenesis impairment in diabetes could play a role in the development of neurological complications. GalR3 activation counteracts glucolipotoxicity in adult neural stem cells (NSCs) in the subventricular zone (SVZ) by decreasing apoptosis. At least part of the protective effect mediated by GalR3 activation occurs through modulation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) signaling in the endoplasmic reticulum. The data support a potential therapeutic development for treatment of diabetic brain disorders, based on increased neurogenesis by GalR3 activation. CB, cerebellum; LV, lateral ventricle; OB, olfactory bulb.
Trehalose rescues Alzheimer's disease phenotypes in APP/PS1 transgenic mice
Authors: Du Jing , Liang Yu , Xu Feng , Sun Bing , Wang Zhao
Published: August 2013

Objective

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is well characterized by the accumulated Aβ plaque in hippocampus and cerebral cortex concomitant with markedly reduced study and learning ability. Trehalose, a natural disaccharide, has been shown to have neural protective properties and exhibited therapeutic effects in animal models of several neural degenerative disorders. However, the effect of trehalose on AD pathology remains largely unknown.

Methods

In this study, we evaluated the effects of trehalose in APP/PS1 transgenic mice through behaviour tests and biochemical analyses.

Key findings

We found that the impaired cognitive and learning ability was improved and Aβ deposit in hippocampus was reduced.

Conclusions

These results suggested that trehalose could be a potential therapeutic drug for the treatment of AD.
Modified-release ointment with nitroglycerin β-cyclodextrin inclusion complex for treatment of anal fissures
Authors: Centkowska Katarzyna , Sznitowska Malgorzata
Published: August 2013

Objectives

The aim was to evaluate ointments for local treatment of anal fissures. Nitroglycerin (NTG) was complexed with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) to provide prolonged NTG release, with the intention of decreasing systemic drug absorption and thus reducing side effects.

Methods

Gels, creams and anhydrous water-emulsifying (AWE) ointment with NTG-CD were compared with preparations containing uncomplexed NTG (diluted with crospovidone, NTG-cP). The in-vitro NTG release and ex-vivo skin absorption were studied.

Key findings

The prolonged-release ointment with the NTG-CD complex was formulated using AWE base or w/o cream (20% water); release of NTG from a hydrogel was very fast with both the complexed and uncomplexed forms. From the AWE ointment base, 16.4% or 4.5% of the total NTG dose was released after 6 h when NTG-cP or NTG-CD was incorporated, respectively. With the complexed form, NTG absorption to the skin after a 5-h application was 18.1 or 11.1 μg/g from AWE ointment or cream, respectively; absorption of the uncomplexed NTG was higher: 52.3 or 21.9 μg/g from AWE ointment and cream, respectively.

Conclusions

Complexation with β-CD results in prolonged release of NTG from AWE ointment and w/o cream, which was confirmed by the ex-vivo skin absorption results.
Studying the association of microRNA‐210 level with chronic hepatitis B progression
Authors: Song G. , Jia H. , Xu H. , Liu W. , Zhu H. , Li S. , Shi J. , Li Z. , He J. , Chen Z.
Published: August 2013

We studied the relationship between hypoxia and microRNA‐210 (miR‐210) levels, the miR‐210 levels in patients with hepatitis B and the roles of miR‐210 in liver inflammation. We used the concanavalin A (Con A) murine hepatitis model and inflammation, hypoxia and miR‐210 levels were examined. In these patients, we studied serum miR‐210 levels and clinical indexes related to hepatitis in 90 patients with different stages of chronic hepatitis B and 30 controls. Two functional assays of miR‐210 in vitro under hypoxic condition were conducted. The animal experiments indicated that the liver and serum miR‐210 levels significantly increased with liver hypoxia and inflammation. In humans, serum miR‐210 levels enhanced with hepatitis severity and were related to serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin (TB) and prothrombin activity (PTA) levels. The miR‐210 functional assays showed that miR‐210 elevation might be related to the decreases in HepG2.2.15 cell dehydrogenase activity and HBV replication under hypoxic conditions. Because the liver inflammation causes liver hypoxia which also results in liver and serum miR‐210 level elevation, the serum miR‐210 level may serve as a molecular biomarker for the severity of hepatitis and increases in liver miR‐210 that we see may be a response of hepatocytes to hypoxia during hepatitis progression.
Radiographic analysis of vocal tract length and its relation to overall body size in two canid species
Authors: Plotsky K. , Rendall D. , Riede T. , Chase K.
Published: August 2013

Body size is an important determinant of resource and mate competition in many species. Competition is often mediated by conspicuous vocal displays, which may help to intimidate rivals and attract mates by providing honest cues to signaler size. Fitch proposed that vocal tract resonances (or formants) should provide particularly good, or honest, acoustic cues to signaler size because they are determined by the length of the vocal tract, which in turn, is hypothesized to scale reliably with overall body size. There is some empirical support for this hypothesis, but to date, many of the effects have been either mixed for males compared with females, weaker than expected in one or the other sex, or complicated by sampling issues. In this paper, we undertake a direct test of Fitch's hypothesis in two canid species using large samples that control for age‐ and sex‐related variation. The samples involved radiographic images of 120 Portuguese water dogs Canis lupus familiaris and 121 Russian silver foxes Vulpes vulpes. Direct measurements were made of vocal tract length from X‐ray images and compared against independent measures of body size. In adults of both species, and within both sexes, overall vocal tract length was strongly and significantly correlated with body size. Effects were strongest for the oral component of the vocal tract. By contrast, the length of the pharyngeal component was not as consistently related to body size. These outcomes are some of the clearest evidence to date in support of Fitch's hypothesis. At the same time, they highlight the potential for elements of both honest and deceptive body signaling to occur simultaneously via differential acoustic cues provided by the oral versus pharyngeal components of the vocal tract.
Anesthesia and Duchenne or Becker muscular dystrophy: review of 117 anesthetic exposures
Authors: Segura Leal G. , Lorenz Jessica D. , Weingarten Toby N. , Scavonetto Federica , Bojanić Katarina , Selcen Duygu , Sprung Juraj
Published: August 2013

Background

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) are associated with life‐threatening perioperative complications, including rhabdomyolysis, hyperkalemia, and hyperthermia. Current recommendations contraindicate use of succinylcholine and volatile anesthetics; however, the latter recommendation remains controversial.

Objective

To review the perioperative outcomes of patients with DMD and BMD.

Methods

We reviewed records of patients with DMD or BMD who underwent anesthetic management at our institution from January 1990 through December 2011.

Results

We identified 47 patients (DMD, 37; BMD, 10) who underwent 117 anesthetic exposures (DMD, 101; BMD, 16). Volatile anesthetic agents were used 66 times (DMD, 59; BMD, 7). One patient with undiagnosed BMD received succinylcholine and developed acute rhabdomyolysis and hyperkalemic cardiac arrest. All other major complications were attributed to the procedure (i.e., large bleeding), to preexisting comorbidities (i.e., respiratory failure, cardiac disease), or to both.

Conclusions

Use of succinylcholine in children with dystrophinopathy is contraindicated. These patients have significant comorbidities and are frequently undergoing extensive operations; complications related to these factors can develop, as evidenced by our series. These complications may occur with use of volatile and nonvolatile anesthetics. However, because most of our patients were older than 8 years at the time of surgery, our observation cannot be generalized to younger dystrophin‐deficient children.
Fusion of an Fc chain to a VHH boosts the accumulation levels in Arabidopsis seeds
Authors: De Buck Sylvie , Nolf Jonah , De Meyer Thomas , Virdi Vikram , De Wilde Kirsten , Van Lerberge Els , Van Droogenbroeck Bart , Depicker Ann
Published: August 2013

Nanobodies® (VHHs) provide powerful tools in therapeutic and biotechnological applications. Nevertheless, for some applications, bivalent antibodies perform much better, and for this, an Fc chain can be fused to the VHH domain, resulting in a bivalent homodimeric VHH‐Fc complex. However, the production of bivalent antibodies in Escherichia coli is rather inefficient. Therefore, we compared the production of VHH7 and VHH7‐Fc as antibodies of interest in Arabidopsis seeds for detecting prostate‐specific antigen (PSA), a well‐known biomarker for prostate cancer in the early stages of tumour development. The influence of the signal sequence (camel versus plant) and that of the Fc chain origin (human, mouse or pig) were evaluated. The accumulation levels of VHHs were very low, with a maximum of 0.13% VHH of total soluble protein (TSP) in homozygous T3 seeds, while VHH‐Fc accumulation levels were at least 10‐ to 100‐fold higher, with a maximum of 16.25% VHH‐Fc of TSP. Both the camel and plant signal peptides were efficiently cleaved off and did not affect the accumulation levels. However, the Fc chain origin strongly affected the degree of proteolysis, but only had a slight influence on the accumulation level. Analysis of the mRNA levels suggested that the low amount of VHHs produced in Arabidopsis seeds was not due to a failure in transcription, but rather to translation inefficiency, protein instability and/or degradation. Most importantly, the plant‐produced VHH7 and VHH7‐Fc antibodies were functional in detecting PSA and could thus be used for diagnostic applications.
Antibody depletion for the treatment of crossmatch‐positive pediatric heart transplant recipients
Authors: Daly Kevin P. , Chandler Stephanie F. , Almond Christopher S. , Singh Tajinder P. , Mah Helen , Milford Edgar , Matte Gregory S. , Bastardi Heather J. , Mayer John E. , Fynn‐Thompson Francis , Blume Elizabeth D.
Published: August 2013

Sensitization to HLA is a risk factor for adverse outcomes after heart transplantation. Requiring a negative prospective CM results in longer waiting times and increased waitlist mortality. We report outcomes in a cohort of sensitized children who underwent transplant despite a positive CDC CM+ using a protocol of antibody depletion at time of transplant, followed by serial IVIG administration. All patients <21 yrs old who underwent heart transplantation at Boston Children's Hospital from 1/1998 to 1/2011 were included. We compared freedom from allograft loss, allograft rejection, and serious infection between CM+ and CM− recipients. Of 134 patients in the cohort, 33 (25%) were sensitized prior to transplantation and 12 (9%) received a CM+ heart transplant. Serious infection in the first post‐transplant year was more prevalent in the CM+ patients compared with CM− patients (50% vs. 16%; p = 0.005), as was HD‐AMR (50% vs. 2%; p < 0.001). There was no difference in freedom from allograft loss or any rejection. At our center, children transplanted despite a positive CM had acceptable allograft survival and risk of any rejection, but a higher risk of HD‐AMR and serious infection.
The Nature of Cognitive Phenomenology
Authors: Smithies Declan
Published: August 2013

This is the first in a series of two articles that serve as an introduction to recent debates about cognitive phenomenology. Cognitive phenomenology can be defined as the experience that is associated with cognitive activities, such as thinking, reasoning, and understanding. What is at issue in contemporary debates is not the existence of cognitive phenomenology, so defined, but rather its nature and theoretical role. The first article examines questions about the nature of cognitive phenomenology, while the second article explores the philosophical implications of these questions for the role of consciousness in theories of intentionality, introspective self‐knowledge, and knowledge of the external world.
Contemporary Cosmopolitanism: Some Current Issues
Authors: Brock Gillian
Published: August 2013

In this article, we survey some current debates among cosmopolitans and their critics. We begin by surveying some distinctions typically drawn among kinds of cosmopolitanisms, before canvassing some of the diverse varieties of cosmopolitan justice, exploring positions on the content of cosmopolitan duties of justice, and a prominent debate between cosmopolitans and defenders of statist accounts of global justice. We then explore some common concerns about cosmopolitanism – such as whether cosmopolitan commitments are necessarily in tension with other affiliations people typically have and how we should deal with issues concerning a perceived lack of authority in the global domain – and whether these can be addressed. We also look briefly at how the concern with feasibility has led some to take up the challenge of devising public policy that is cosmopolitan in outlook, before offering some concluding remarks on future directions in these debates.
Genetic loss of susceptibility: a costly route to disease resistance?
Authors: Hückelhoven R. , Eichmann R. , Weis C. , Hoefle C. , Proels R. K.
Published: August 2013

The susceptibility of plants to microbial pathogens involves molecular interactions between microbial effectors and host targets. In most cases, pathogen effectors prevent recognition or suppress host defence. However, successful suppression of host defence is not always sufficient for pathogenesis, which requires further host components that meet the demands of pathogen development and nutrition. Additionally, the plants possess negative regulators of immune response to avoid autoimmunity and unnecessary investment into defence in environments with little disease pressure. Consequently, disease susceptibility can be lost by mutation of negative regulators of defence, but also of other host factors that otherwise support the successful pathogen. Here, genetic loss of susceptibility to adapted microbial pathogens is reviewed, with a focus on examples of lost susceptibility to powdery mildew. Costs of resistance and potential consequences for application in breeding and biotechnology are discussed.
Trade‐offs in host range evolution of plant viruses
Authors: García‐Arenal F. , Fraile A.
Published: August 2013

Understanding host range evolution in plant viruses is central for the control of viral diseases: changes in host range resulting in host switches or host range expansions are at the root of virus emergence either in new host species or in host genotypes previously resistant to the virus. Theory predicts that different selection pressures in different hosts will result in fitness trade‐offs across hosts, leading to specialization. This paper reviews the evidence in support of this prediction. A large fraction of plant viruses are multihost parasites: evidence for across‐species trade‐offs has been reported both from the analysis of field virus populations and, more often, from passage experiments resulting in host adaptation. More abundant evidence for across‐host trade‐offs derives from the analysis of the performance of resistance‐breaking virus genotypes in resistant and susceptible host genotypes. Data indicate that overcoming dominant resistance is coupled to severe fitness costs, while overcoming recessive resistance may be associated with fitness costs according to the specific virus genotype. There is ample evidence that antagonistic pleiotropy is a major cause of the reported across‐host trade‐offs.
Charles Taylor and Political Religion: Overlapping Concerns and Points of Tension
Authors: Fisher‐Høyrem Stefan
Published: August 2013

This article introduces some key aspects of the secularization thesis put forward in Charles Taylor's A Secular Age (2007), with a particular view to how these might illuminate and/or complicate the study of political religion. Particularly helpful are Taylor's attention to nuance Western theological controversies and his emphasis on how ideas and ultimate concerns are not only expressed in obviously ritualistic or ‘religious’ mass events, but are also embodied on the level of ordinary and habitual collective practices. However, the encounter between Taylor's work and the field of political religion also accentuates points of seemingly irresolvable tension. Taylor insists that the notions of an ‘ordinary’ world and autonomous individuals with an innate urge to transcend it—both notions underpinning most studies of political religion—cannot be accepted as a priori but must be historicized and explained. Ultimately, the article encourages scholars of political religion to consider the critiques implicit in Taylor's thesis in the hope that this might generate new and better ways of studying ‘ultimate concerns’ and their place in modernity.
African Development: Beyond Income Convergence
Authors: Asongu Simplice
Published: August 2013

In examining some big questions on African development, I provide evidence that the dynamics of some development indicators could support both endogenous and neoclassical growth theories in the convergence debate. This paper investigates convergence in real per capita gross domestic product and inequality‐adjusted human development in 38 African countries, disaggregated into 10 homogenous panels based on regions (Sub‐Saharan and North Africa), income levels (low, middle, lower middle and upper middle), legal origins (English common law and French civil law) and religious dominations (Christianity and Islam). The main finding is that the income component of the Human Development Index moves slower than others in the convergence process, and thus requires a more focused policy intervention. As a policy implication, looking beyond income convergence can provide a concrete agenda for development involving all aspects of economic, institutional and social life.
Migration and access to maternal healthcare: determinants of adequate antenatal care and institutional delivery among socio‐economically disadvantaged migrants in Delhi, India
Authors: Kusuma Yadlapalli S. , Kumari Rita , Kaushal Sonia
Published: August 2013

Objective

To identify the determinants of adequate antenatal care (ANC) utilisation and institutional deliveries among socio‐economically disadvantaged migrants living in Delhi, India.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional survey, 809 rural–urban migrant mothers with a child aged below 2 years were interviewed with a pretested questionnaire. Data on receiving antenatal, delivery and post‐natal services, migration history and other social, demographic and income were collected.

Results

Recent migrants used the services significantly less than settled migrants. ANC was adequate only among 37% (35% of recent migrant women and 39% of settled migrants). Multinomial regression revealed that being a recent migrant, multiparous, illiterate and married to an unskilled worker were significant risk factors for receiving inadequate ANC. Around 53% of deliveries took place at home. ANC seeking has a strong influence on place of delivery: 70% of births to women who received inadequate ANC were at home. Women who are educated, had their first delivery after the age of 20 years and received adequate ANC were more likely to deliver their child in hospital. Post‐natal care is grossly neglected among these groups.

Conclusion

Migrant women, particularly recent migrants, are at the risk of not receiving adequate maternal healthcare. Because migration is a continuing phenomenon, measures to mitigate disadvantage due to migration need to be taken in the healthcare system.
Fear of blood draws, vasovagal reactions, and retention among high school donors
Authors: France Christopher R. , France Janis L. , Carlson Bruce W. , Himawan Lina K. , Stephens Kirsten Yunuba , Frame‐Brown Terri A. , Venable Geri A. , Menitove Jay E.
Published: August 2013

Background

We previously demonstrated that fear of having blood drawn is one of the strongest known predictors of vasovagal reactions among high school blood donors. This report examines the combined effects of donor fear and experience of vasovagal reactions on repeat donation attempts among high school blood donors.

Study Design and Methods

Immediately after completing the blood donor health screening, 1715 high school students were asked about their fear of having blood drawn. The donor record was then used to collect information regarding their experience of vasovagal reactions at the time of donation as well as their subsequent donation attempts within the following year.

Results

Fear of having blood drawn and the experience of a vasovagal reaction each contributed to donor attrition, with only 33.2% of fearful donors who experienced a vasovagal reaction returning in the following year compared to 56.7% of nonfearful nonreactors. Path analyses demonstrated that fear has an indirect effect (through vasovagal reactions) on repeat donations among first‐time donors and both direct and indirect effects on repeat donation attempts among experienced donors.

Conclusion

Among high school blood donors, fear of having blood drawn has both a direct negative effect on donor retention and an indirect negative effect by increasing the risk of vasovagal reactions. Accordingly, targeted efforts to reduce donor fear may be particularly efficient in promoting long‐term donor loyalty among our youngest donors.
Evaluation of automated assays for immunoglobulin G, M, and A measurements in dog and cat serum
Authors: Tvarijonaviciute Asta , Martínez‐Subiela Silvia , Caldin Marco , Tecles Fernando , Ceron Jose J.
Published: August 2013

Background

Measurements of immunoglobulins (Igs) in companion animals can be useful to detect deficiencies of the humoral immune system, that can be associated with opportunistic or chronic infections, or other immune‐mediated disorders including B‐cell neoplasms.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate commercially available automated immunoturbidimetric assays designed for human IgG, M, and A measurements in canine and feline serum using species‐specific calibrators.

Methods

Canine and feline serum samples with different IgG, M, and A concentrations were used for the analytical validation of the assays. Intra‐ and inter‐assay precision, linearity under dilution, spiking recovery, and limit of detection were determined. In addition, effects of lipemia, hemolysis, and bilirubinemia were evaluated. Finally, Ig concentrations were determined in small groups of diseased dogs and cats, and compared with healthy groups.

Results

Spiking recovery and linearity under dilution tests showed that the assays measured Igs in canine and feline serum samples precisely and accurately. Intra‐ and inter‐assay imprecisions were lower than 15% in all cases. Significantly higher IgG, IgM, and IgA levels were observed in dogs with leishmaniasis, while dogs with pyometra showed a statistically significant increase in IgM and IgA concentrations in comparison with healthy dogs. Significantly higher IgG and IgM levels were observed inFIV‐infected cats compared with healthy ones.

Conclusions

The automated human Ig assays showed adequate precision and accuracy with serum samples from dogs and cats. Also, they were able to discriminate different concentrations of Igs in healthy and diseased animals.
COMPARISON BETWEEN SURVEY RADIOGRAPHY, B‐MODE ULTRASONOGRAPHY, CONTRAST‐ENHANCED ULTRASONOGRAPHY AND CONTRAST‐ENHANCED MULTI‐DETECTOR COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY FINDINGS IN DOGS WITH ACUTE ABDOMINAL SIGNS
Authors: Shanaman Miriam M. , Schwarz Tobias , Gal Arnon , O'Brien Robert T.
Published: August 2013

Contrast‐enhanced multi‐detector computed tomography (CE‐MDCT) is used routinely in evaluating human patients with acute abdominal symptoms. Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) continues to be in its infancy as it relates to evaluation of the acute abdomen. The purpose of this study was to compare survey radiography, B‐mode ultrasound, CEUS, and CE‐MDCT findings in canine patients presenting with acute abdominal signs; with a focus on the ability to differentiate surgical from non‐surgical conditions. Nineteen dogs were prospectively enrolled. Inclusion required a clinical diagnosis of acute abdominal signs and confirmed surgical or non‐surgical causes for the clinical signs. Agreement for the majority of recorded imaging features was at least moderate. There was poor agreement in the identification of pneumoperitoneum and in the comparison of pancreatic lesion dimensions for B‐mode vs. CEUS. The CT feature of fat stranding was detected in cases including, but not limited to, gastric neoplasia with perforation, pancreatitis, and small intestinal foreign body. Ultrasound underestimated the size and number of specific lesions when compared with CE‐MDCT. Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound was successful in detecting bowel and pancreatic perfusion deficits that CE‐MDCT failed to identify. Accuracy for differentiation of surgical vs. non‐surgical conditions was high for all modalities; 100%, 94%, and 94% for CE‐MDCT, ultrasonography and survey radiography respectively. Findings indicated that CE‐MDCT is an accurate screening test for differentiating surgical from non‐surgical acute abdominal conditions in dogs. Focused CEUS following CE‐MDCT or B‐mode ultrasonography may be beneficial for identifying potentially significant hypoperfused lesions.