bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: prompt endoscopy as the initial management strategy for uninvestigated dyspepsia in Asia
Authors: Chen S. L. , Gwee K. A. , Lee J. S. , Miwa H. , Suzuki H. , Guo P. , Hao Y. T. , Chen M. H.
Published: November 2014

Background

Prompt endoscopy should be considered as an initial strategy for uninvestigated dyspepsia in the background of high prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection and malignancy. However, with changes of disease patterns and dyspepsia definition, the prevalence of organic lesions at endoscopy in dyspepsia patients and the predictive values of alarm features and age for in malignancy remain unclear in Asian population.

Aims

To evaluate the appropriateness of prompt endoscopy as an initial dyspepsia management strategy, we investigated the organic lesion detection rates in Asian dyspepsia patients as well as the diagnostic accuracies of alarm features and age thresholds for malignancy.

Methods

Literature was retrieved from MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and CINAHL Plus. The prevalence rates of organic lesions and young cancer patients among dyspeptic patients and the sensitivities, specificities, likelihood ratios and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of alarm features and ages were estimated. The summary receiver operating characteristic curve was constructed and the area under the curve (AUC) calculated. Subgroup, sensitivity and meta‐regression analyses were performed.

Results

Of the 18 included studies, 15 reported organic lesion detection rates, and six and five analysed the predictive values of alarm features and ages respectively. The overall malignancy detection rate was 1.3% (95% CI: 0.80–2.10). Among cancer patients, 17.8% (95% CI: 10.90–29.00) were younger than 45 years and 3.0% (95% CI: 2.50–3.50) were younger than 35 years. The diagnostic accuracy of alarm features for predicting malignancy was moderate (DOR: 4.87, 95% CI: 2.72–8.71; AUC = 0.74). The diagnostic accuracy at age >35 years (DOR: 9.41, 95% CI: 7.89–11.21; AUC = 0.82) was better than that at age >45 years (DOR: 3.50, 95% CI: 2.32–5.27; AUC = 0.70).

Conclusions

The malignancy detection rate and proportion of young cancer patients were high among Asian dyspepsia patients. Alarm features and age were of limited value for predicting malignancy, and prompt endoscopy should be considered as the initial strategy for dyspepsia in Asian populations. The optimal age threshold for endoscopy screening in Asia might be 35 years.
NASH resolution is associated with improvements in HDL and triglyceride levels but not improvement in LDL or non‐HDL‐C levels
Authors: Corey K. E. , Vuppalanchi R. , Wilson L. A. , Cummings O. W. , Chalasani N. ,   the NASH CRN
Published: November 2014

Background

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is associated with dyslipidemia and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Aim

To determine the relationship between resolution of NASH and dyslipidemia.

Methods

Individuals in the Pioglitazone vs. Vitamin E vs. Placebo for the Treatment of Nondiabetic Patients with Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (PIVENS) trial with paired liver biopsies and fasting lipid levels were included (N = 222). In the PIVENS trial individuals were randomised to pioglitazone 30 mg, vitamin E 800 IU or placebo for 96 weeks. Change in lipid levels at 96 weeks was compared between those with and without NASH resolution.

Results

Dyslipidemia at baseline was frequent, with low high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) (<40 mg/dL in men or <50 mg/dL in women) in 63%, hypertriglyceridaemia (≥150 mg/dL) in 46%, hypercholesterolaemia (≥200 mg/dL) in 47% and triglycerides (TG)/HDL >5.0 in 25%. Low‐density lipoprotein (LD) ≥160 mg/dL was found in 16% and elevated non‐HDL cholesterol (non‐HDL‐C) (≥130 mg/dL) in 73%. HDL increased with NASH resolution but decreased in those without resolution (2.9 mg/dL vs. −2.5 mg/dL, P < 0.001). NASH resolution was associated with significant decreases in TG and TG/HDL ratio compared to those without resolution (TG: −21.1 vs. −2.3 mg/dL, P = 0.03 and TG/HDL: −0.7 vs. 0.1, P = 0.003). Non‐HDL‐C, LDL and cholesterol decreased over 96 weeks in both groups, but there was no significant difference between groups. Treatment group did not impact lipids.

Conclusions

NASH resolution is associated with improvements in TG and HDL but not in other cardiovascular disease risk factors including LDL and non‐HDL‐C levels. Individuals with resolution of NASH may still be at increased risk of cardiovascular disease. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00063622.
Spectrochemical Characterization of Red Pigments Used in Classic Period Maya Funerary Practices
Authors: Quintana P. , Tiesler V. , Conde M. , Trejo‐tzab R. , Bolio C. , Alvarado‐gil J. J. , Aguilar D.
Published: November 2014

We studied the composition, colour chromaticity and form of application of red pigments in human bone samples from seven Classic period Lowland Maya sites. The samples were analysed by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Colour was measured using conventional colour identification standards (Munsell) and reflectance spectroscopy. Cinnabar and hematite were identified as the pigments used. We conclude that the reflectance method has advantages over conventional visual results, as it provides precise, objective and quantifiable optical data to distinguish the chromaticity, colour saturation and brightness of the pigments.
A New Method For Combining Lead Isotope and Lead Abundance Data to Characterize Archaeological Copper Alloys*
Authors: Pollard A. M. , Bray P. J.
Published: November 2014

We present a new methodology for interpreting lead isotope data from archaeological copper alloy objects. It is not based on the conventional isotope ratio biplots, which were originally devised to allow the calculation of the geological age of the lead mineralization, but is derived from isotope mixing models, more often used for presenting strontium isotope data. We illustrate the method by reworking published data on Sardinian Nuragic oxhide ingots and copper alloy artefacts. While we confirm the consensus assumption that the oxhide ingot fragments found on Sardinia are isotopically consistent with Cypriot copper ores (although we see no isotopic reason to favour only Apliki, as originally suggested), we also show that there is evidence for mixing between local and ingot copper in some objects, which was previously not detected. More broadly, we suspect that the apparent mismatch between some source allocations for copper drawn from isotope geochemistry and the rest of the archaeological data in some cases might be due to mixed isotopic signals being incorrectly assigned to a specific source, and suggest that the method presented here will reduce the chances of this happening.
For Whom the Bells Fall: Metals from the Cenote Sagrado, Chichén Itzá
Authors: Cockrell B. , Ruvalcaba Sil J. L. , Ortiz Díaz E.
Published: November 2014

Bells of copper and copper alloys and gold–copper alloys were deposited in events at the Cenote Sagrado at Chichén Itzá, Mexico during the site's primary occupation (ad 750–1050) and in later centuries. Housed in three museums in the United States and Mexico, bells (n = 38) were evaluated for traces of fabrication and alteration using Vis–UV–IR optical microscopy. Bulk compositions were determined through p‐ED‐XRF. Phases and compositional variation by depth were characterized through XRD and RBS. The technological styles of bell groups were ascribed to communities of metallurgical practice, from West and Central Mexico to Costa Rica and Panama.
Elemental Characterization by EDXRF of Imperial Longquan Celadon Porcelain Excavated from Fengdongyan Kiln, Dayao County
Authors: Li L. , Yan L. T. , Feng S. L. , Xu Q. , Liu L. , Huang Y. , Feng X. Q.
Published: November 2014

A mass of Longquan porcelain shards carved with ‘Guan’ or the dragon patterns were unearthed in the early Ming Dynasty layer of the Fengdongyan kiln site at Dayao County. These celadon shards were fired in the Hongwu and Yongle eras of the Ming Dynasty. In order to research the raw materials and firing technology of the imperial porcelain, 85 typical shards were analysed by energy‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (EDXRF). The results indicate that the contents of TiO2 and Fe2O3 in the body vary in the Hongwu and Yongle eras. Compared with Longquan glazes in the Southern Song Dynasty, the average values of K2O, Fe2O3 and TiO2 are higher, but that of CaO is lower in early Ming imperial porcelain glazes. Principal components analysis (PCA) shows that different degrees of elutriation of the same raw materials are the main reason for this difference in the Hongwu and Yongle periods. However, the raw materials of imperial porcelain glazes show no obvious changes and have inherited the earlier tradition. The production and firing technology of imperial porcelain reached a higher level and had not declined in the Early Ming Dynasty.
Growth trajectories of mathematics achievement: Longitudinal tracking of student academic progress
Authors: Mok Magdalena M. C. , McInerney Dennis M. , Zhu Jinxin , Or Anthony
Published: November 2014

Background

A number of methods to investigate growth have been reported in the literature, including hierarchical linear modelling (HLM), latent growth modelling (LGM), and multidimensional scaling applied to longitudinal profile analysis (LPAMS).

Aims

This study aimed at modelling the mathematics growth of students over a span of 6 years from Grade 3 to Grade 9.

Sample

The sample comprised secondary longitudinal data collected in three waves from n = 866 Hong Kong students when they were in Grade 3, Grade 6, and Grade 9.

Method

Mathematics achievement was measured thrice on a vertical scale linked with anchor items. Linear and nonlinear latent growth models were used to assess students' growth. Gender differences were also examined.

Results

A nonlinear latent growth curve with a decelerated rate had a good fit to the data. Initial achievement and growth rate were negatively correlated. No gender difference was found.

Conclusion

Mathematics growth from Grade 6 to Grade 9 was slower than that from Grade 3 to Grade 6. Students with lower initial achievement improved at a faster rate than those who started at a higher level. Gender did not affect growth rate.
A method for teacher inquiry in cross‐curricular projects: Lessons from a case study
Authors: Avramides Katerina , Hunter Jade , Oliver Martin , Luckin Rosemary
Published: November 2014

Many changes in teaching practices (such as introduction of e‐assessment) are initiated by school management, or by a lead teacher, but have direct impact on the learning designs of others. However, models of teachers as innovators, conducting evidence‐based inquiry into their students' learning, view the teacher as initiator of change in their own practice (normally as individual). This paper addresses the question of whether such models can also be applied to change introduced by top‐down processes. In this paper, we examine teacher inquiry in such a context. We discuss a case study in which we worked with the Head of Science (HoS) of a secondary school. The HoS designed a cross‐curricular science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) project with 57 STEM teachers and introduced Google Forms as a tool for formative assessment. We supported the HoS to design and conduct an inquiry that involved all teachers. We examine the context and process of inquiry and how it was applied. Our findings provide insight into teachers' use of tools and representations when communicating about learning design, and the implications of this for the development of learning analytics tools. They also inform the development of a method for coordinating teacher inquiry in cross‐curricular projects and, more generally, in the context of top‐down introduction of change.
Longing for the country's good old days: National nostalgia, autochthony beliefs, and opposition to Muslim expressive rights
Authors: Smeekes Anouk , Verkuyten Maykel , Martinovic Borja
Published: November 2014

Four studies tested the prediction that feelings of national nostalgia (i.e. nostalgia on the basis of one's national ingroup membership) result in more opposition towards expressive rights for Muslim immigrants, because they strengthen the belief that a place belongs to its original inhabitants, and that they are therefore more entitled (i.e. autochthony). Study 1 found that national nostalgia can be distinguished from personal nostalgia, and that national (rather than personal) nostalgia was related to more opposition to Muslim rights via stronger endorsement of autochthony. This latter result was replicated in another survey study (Study 2) and in an experiment (Study 3) in which national nostalgia was manipulated. Study 4 provided preliminary evidence that the salience of autochthony increases opposition to Muslim rights.
Recourse to radical prostatectomy and associated short‐term outcomes in Italy: a country‐wide study over the last decade
Authors: Novara Giacomo , Ficarra Vincenzo , Zattoni Filiberto , Fedeli Ugo
Published: November 2014

Objective

To estimate time trends in the recourse to radical prostatectomy (RP) and associated short‐term outcomes after RP in Italy, as population‐based data on RP adoption and outcomes are available mainly from Northern America and Northern Europe.

Patients and Methods

All RPs for prostate cancer performed between 2001 and 2010 were extracted from the Italian national archive of hospital discharge records. Age‐specific and age‐standardised RP rates were computed. The effect of procedural volume on in‐hospital mortality, complications, and length of stay (LOS) was estimated by multilevel regression models.

Results

In all, 144 432 RPs were analysed. Country‐wide RP rates increased between 2001 and 2004, and thereafter remained stable, with large differences between geographical areas. The mean hospital volume increased in the first study years, without centralisation but due to increasing RP numbers at the population level. The median LOS declined from 10 to 8 days over the study period (mean from 11.7 to 9.2 days). In‐hospital mortality declined from 0.16% in 2001 to 0.07% in 2010. In‐hospital mortality, LOS, and the prevalence of complications increased with age, and decreased with year of surgery. Compared with very low‐volume hospitals, procedures performed in high‐volume hospitals were associated with decreased in‐hospital mortality, in‐hospital complications, and LOS.

Conclusions

The study adds evidence on rapidly changing trends in RP rates in Italy, on improving in‐hospital outcomes, and on their association with procedural volume.
The efficacy of irinotecan, paclitaxel, and oxaliplatin (IPO) in relapsed germ cell tumours with high‐dose chemotherapy as consolidation: a non‐cisplatin‐based induction approach
Authors: Badreldin Waleed , Krell Jonathan , Chowdhury Simon , Harland Stephen J. , Mazhar Danish , Harding Victoria , Frampton Adam E. , Wilson Peter , Berney Daniel , Stebbing Justin , Shamash Jonathan
Published: November 2014

Objectives

To determine the outcome of an expanded cohort of patients with relapsed germ cell tumours (GCTs) treated with a salvage chemotherapy regimen consisting of irinotecan, paclitaxel and oxaliplatin (IPO) and assess the role of IPO as an alternative to standard cisplatin‐based chemotherapy regimens in this setting.

Patients and Methods

The results of 72 consecutive patients were reviewed retrospectively. IPO was used either as a second‐line treatment (29 patients), of which 20 patients subsequently received high‐dose chemotherapy (HDCT), or third‐line (43), of which 32 patients proceeded to HDCT.

Results

The 2‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) and 3‐year overall survival (OS) rates for the whole cohort were 30.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] 17.3–40.5%) and 33.4% (95% CI 20.1–43.8%), respectively. Complete remission was achieved in 3%, marker‐negative partial response (PR) in 41%, marker‐positive PR in 18%, stable disease in 17% and progressive disease in 20%. In the second‐line setting, the 2‐year PFS rate was 43.5% (95% CI 21.7–60.8%) and 3‐year OS 49.1% (95% CI 24.2–65.1%). In the third‐line setting, the 2‐year PFS rate was 21.0% (95% CI 9.5–35.4%) and the 3‐year OS rate was 23.9% (95% CI 11.7–38.2). According to the current international prognostic factor study group criteria for first relapse for the high‐ and very high‐risk group the 2‐year PFS rates were 50% and 30%, respectively. There were two treatment‐related deaths from IPO, and four from HDCT. Grade 3 or 4 toxicities included neutropenia (35%), thrombocytopaenia (18%), infection (15%), diarrhoea (11%) and lethargy (8%).

Conclusions

IPO offers an effective, well‐tolerated, non‐nephrotoxic alternative to cisplatin‐based salvage regimens for patients with relapsed GCTs. It appears particularly useful in high‐risk patients and for those in whom cisplatin is ineffective or contra‐indicated.
Clinical and radiographic predictors of the need for inferior vena cava resection during nephrectomy for patients with renal cell carcinoma and caval tumour thrombus
Authors: Psutka Sarah P. , Boorjian Stephen A. , Thompson Robert H. , Schmit Grant D. , Schmitz John J. , Bower Thomas C. , Stewart Suzanne B. , Lohse Christine M. , Cheville John C. , Leibovich Bradley C.
Published: November 2014

Objective

To evaluate the clinical and radiographic predictors of the need for partial or circumferential resection of the inferior vena cava (IVC) requiring complex vascular reconstruction during venous tumour thrombectomy for renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

Patients and Methods

Data were collected on 172 patients with RCC and IVC (levels I–IV) venous tumour thrombus who underwent radical nephrectomy with tumour thrombectomy at the Mayo Clinic between 2000 and 2010. Preoperative imaging was re‐reviewed by one of two radiologists blinded to details of the patient's surgical procedure. Univariable and multivariable associations of clinical and radiographic features with IVC resection were evaluated by logistic regression. A secondary analysis was used to assess the ability of the model to predict histological invasion of the IVC by the tumour thrombus.

Results

Of the 172 patients, 38 (22%) underwent IVC resection procedures during nephrectomy. Optimum radiographic thresholds were determined to predict the need for IVC resection based on preoperative imaging included a renal vein diameter at the renal vein ostium (RVo) of 15.5 mm, maximum anterior–posterior (AP) diameter of the IVC of 34.0 mm and AP and coronal diameters of the IVC at the RVo of 24 and 19 mm, respectively. On multivariable analysis, the presence of a right‐sided tumour (odds ratio 3.3; P = 0.017), an AP diameter of the IVC at the RVo of ≥24.0 mm (odds ratio 4.4; P = 0.017), and radiographic identification of complete occlusion of the IVC at the RVo (odds ratio 4.9; P < 0.001) were associated with a significantly increased risk of IVC resection. The c‐index for the model was 0.81.

Conclusions

We present a multivariable model of the radiographic features associated with the need for IVC resection during tumour thrombectomy. Pending external validation, this model may be used for preoperative planning, patient counselling and planned involvement of vascular surgical colleagues in anticipation of the need for complex vascular repair.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of the Hybrid Molecules between Sulfonamides and Active Antimicrobial Pleuromutilin Derivative
Authors: Chen Liangzhu , Yang Dexue , Pan Zhikun , Lai Lihong , Liu Jianhua , Fang Binghu , Shi Shuning
Published: November 2014

A series of novel hybrid molecules between sulfonamides and active antimicrobial 14‐o‐(3‐carboxy‐phenylsulfide)‐mutilin were synthesized, and their in vitro antibacterial activities were evaluated by the broth microdilution. Results indicated that these compounds displayed potent antimicrobial activities in vitro against various drug‐susceptible and drug‐resistant Gram‐positive bacteria such as Staphylococci and streptococci, including methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus, and mycoplasma. In particular, sulfapyridine analog (6c) exhibited more potent inhibitory activity against Gram‐positive bacteria and mycoplasma, including Staphylococcus aureus (MIC = 0.016–0.063 μg/mL), methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MIC = 0.016 μg/mL), Streptococcus pneumoniae (MIC = 0.032–0.063 μg/mL), Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MIC = 0.004 μg/mL), with respect to other synthesized compounds and reference drugs sulfonamide (MIC = 8–128 μg/mL) and valnemulin (MIC = 0.004–0.5 μg/mL). Furthermore, comparison between MIC values of pleuromutilin‐sulfonamide hybrids 6a–f with pleuromutilin parent compound 3 revealed that these modifications at 14 position side chain of the pleuromutilin with benzene sulfonamide could greatly improve the antibacterial activity especially against Gram‐positives.
Dietary management of peanut and tree nut allergy: what exactly should patients avoid?
Authors: Brough H. A. , Turner P. J. , Wright T. , Fox A. T. , Taylor S. L. , Warner J. O. , Lack G.
Published: November 2014

Peanut and tree nut allergies are the commonest cause of life‐threatening food‐allergic reactions and significantly affect quality of life in children and their families. Dietary nut avoidance and provision of emergency medication is currently the mainstay of treatment. Nut avoidance has consequences on both quality of life and nutrition. We review the terminology that may cause confusion and lead to unnecessary dietary restrictions. In peanut or tree nut‐allergic children, introduction of specific nuts to which the child is not allergic may improve quality of life and should be considered in patients with multiple foods allergies, vegan or ethnic‐specific diets, in whom nuts are an important source of protein. Nut‐allergic consumers do not just need to avoid foods containing nuts as an ingredient, but also contend with pre‐packed foods which frequently have precautionary allergen labelling (PAL) referring to possible nut contamination. Although the published rate of peanut contamination in ‘snack’ foods with PAL (see Box ) ranges from 0.9–32.4%, peanut contamination in non‐snack items with PAL is far less common. We propose that in some peanut‐allergic patients (depending on history of reactivity to trace levels of peanut, reaction severity, other medical conditions, willingness to always carry adrenaline, etc.), consideration may be given to allow the consumption of non‐snack foods containing PAL following discussion with the patient's (and their family's) specialist. More work is needed to provide consumers with clearer information on the risk of potential nut contamination in pre‐packed food. We also draw attention to the change in legislation in December 2014 that require mandatory disclosure of allergens in non‐pre‐packed foods.
Genetic features of Lynch syndrome in the Israeli population
Authors: Goldberg Y. , Barnes‐Kedar I. , Lerer I. , Halpern N. , Plesser M. , Hubert A. , Kadouri L. , Goldshmidt H. , Solar I. , Strul H. , Rosner G. , Baris H.N. , Peretz T. , Levi Z. , Kariv R.
Published: November 2014

Diagnosis of Lynch syndrome (LS) may be complex. Knowledge of mutation spectrum and founder mutations in specific populations facilitates the diagnostic process. Aim of the study is to describe genetic features of LS in the Israeli population and report novel and founder mutations. Patients were studied at high‐risk clinics. Diagnostics followed a multi‐step process, including tumor testing, gene analysis and testing for founder mutations. LS was defined by positive mutation testing. We diagnosed LS in 242 subjects from 113 families coming from different ethnicities. We identified 54 different mutations; 13 of them are novel. Sixty‐seven (59%) families had mutations in MSH2, 20 (18%) in MSH6, 19 (17%) in MLH1 and 7 (6%) in PMS2; 27% of the MSH2 mutations were large deletions. Seven founder mutations were detected in 61/113 (54%) families. Constitutional mismatch repair deficiency (CMMR‐D) was identified in five families. Gene distribution in the Israeli population is unique, with relatively high incidence of mutations in MSH2 and MSH6. The mutation spectrum is wide; however, 54% of cases are caused by one of seven founder mutations. CMMR‐D occurs in the context of founder mutations and consanguinity. These features should guide the diagnostic process, risk estimation, and genetic counseling.
Cystamine Improves Functional Recovery via Axon Remodeling and Neuroprotection after Stroke in Mice
Authors: Li Pei‐Cheng , Jiao Yun , Ding Jie , Chen Yu‐Chen , Cui Ying , Qian Cheng , Yang Xiang‐Yu , Ju Sheng‐Hong , Yao Hong‐Hong , Teng Gao‐Jun
Published: November 2014

Aims

Stroke is a leading cause of disability. However, there is no pharmacological therapy available for promoting recovery. Although treatment of stroke with cystamine has gained increasing interest, the detailed mechanisms underlying this process remain elusive. Thus, our aim is to examine the effect of cystamine on the function recovery after stroke and investigate further cystamine mechanisms.

Methods

Adult male C57BL/6J mice were subjected to photothrombotic model of focal stroke or sham operation. Cystamine or saline was administered intraperitoneally at 24 h after stroke. Functional recovery was analyzed using behavioral tests; axon remodeling was analyzed using magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and histological assessment. ANA‐12, an antagonist of tropomyosin‐related kinase B (TrkB), was administrated to examine the mechanisms underlying the neuroprotection mediated by cystamine.

Results

Treatment with cystamine resulted in amelioration of impaired function with concomitant enhancement of axonal remodeling. Cystamine treatment significantly increased brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels and phosphorylation of TrkB in brain after stroke. Cystamine significantly enhanced neuronal progenitor cell proliferation, neuronal survival, and plasticity through BDNF/TrkB pathway.

Conclusions

These data provide evidence to investigate the promising utility of cystamine for therapy of stroke in a variety of ways, acting principally through BDNF/TrkB pathway.
Tetraploid complementation proves pluripotency of induced pluripotent stem cells derived from adipose tissue
Authors: Zhou C. , Cai X. , Fu Y. , Wei X. , Fu N. , Xie J. , Lin Y.
Published: November 2014

Objectives

Recently, pluripotency of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells has been displayed after producing adult mice, in tetraploid complementation assays. These studies lead us to the last piece of the puzzle for reprogramming somatic cells into fully pluripotent cells which function as embryonic stem cells in most applications. However, in all of previous studies, skin fibroblasts were used as the starting population for reprogramming, raising questions as to whether the pluripotency of the iPS cells was dependent on the particular starting cell type.

Materials and methods

Our iPS cell lines were prepared from murine adipose stem cells (ASCs). Their multi‐potency was first tested by teratoma formation in nude mice. Then, tetraploid complementation was performed to generate progeny from them.

Results

We succeeded to the birth of viable and fertile adult mice derived entirely from reprogrammed ASC, indicating cell types other than fibroblasts can also be restored to the embryonic level of pluripotency.

Conclusions

We also directed differentiation of iPS cells into chondrocytes, thus adipose‐derived iPS cells can be used as models to study chondrogenic differentiation and cartilage regeneration.
The promise of acceptance as an NGO security management approach
Authors: Fast Larissa , Freeman Faith , O'Neill Michael , Rowley Elizabeth
Published: November 2014

This paper explores three questions related to acceptance as a security management approach. Acceptance draws upon relationships with community members, authorities, belligerents and other stakeholders to provide consent for the presence and activities of a non‐governmental organisation (NGO), thereby reducing threats from these actors. Little is documented about how NGOs gain and maintain acceptance, how they assess and monitor the presence and degree of acceptance, or how they determine whether acceptance is effective in a particular context. Based on field research conducted in April 2011 in Kenya, South Sudan and Uganda, we address each of these three issues and argue that acceptance must be actively sought as both a programme and a security management strategy. In the paper we delineate elements common to all three contexts as well as missed opportunities, which identify areas that NGOs can and should address as part of an acceptance approach.
Embedded wisdom or rooted problems? Aid workers' perspectives on local social and political infrastructure in post‐tsunami Aceh
Authors: Daly Patrick
Published: November 2014

This paper analyses the role of local social, cultural, and political institutions in post‐disaster reconstruction projects. It contends that such institutions are important considerations within community‐driven reconstruction initiatives, but are often viewed with ambivalence by external aid organisations. This paper draws upon in‐depth qualitative interviews with aid workers involved in the post‐tsunami reconstruction in Aceh, Indonesia, to establish: (i) what roles community institutions were suited to play in the reconstruction; (ii) what were the limitations of community institutions when engaging with external aid agencies; (iii) how did external aid agencies engage with local community institutions; and (iv) how did external aid agencies perceive community institutions.
Factors influencing nitrogen processing in lakes: an experimental approach
Authors: Olsen Saara , Jeppesen Erik , Moss Brian , Özkan Korhan , Beklioğlu Meryem , Feuchtmayr Heidrun , González Sagrario María , Wei Li , Larsen Søren , Lauridsen Torben S. , Søndergaard Martin
Published: November 2014

To help improve our understanding of the nitrogen cycle in lakes, particularly in the context of climate change, we analysed total nitrogen (TN) and nitrate (‐N) data from six mesocosm experiments (in Denmark, U.K., China and Turkey) covering different climatic regions. We assessed the effects of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) loading, temperature, salinity and water level on N processing.

Water column N loss (defined as the nitrogen processed in and lost from the water column in units of net amount processed per unit area and per unit of time, or in relative terms as the percentage loss of the total pool in 2 weeks) was particularly sensitive to external nutrient loading to the mesocosms. Mean water column TN loss at high N loading varied from 111 to 250 mg m−2 day−1 and increased with N loading. High P loading resulted in increased water column N loss, possibly because of increased uptake into plants and attached algae and sedimentation of the increased algal crop. High salinity generally decreased water column TN loss; on average, 10% more TN was in the water column at 12‰ salinity than at 2‰ salinity, while no significant effect of water level was found.

Only weak relationships were observed between N processing and temperature, and mesocosms limited by P accumulated more nitrogen in their water columns than those with high P loadings. Our results suggest that N processing in lakes appears to be more sensitive to features of the catchment, such as hydrology and loading, than to climatic effects related to temperature, salinity and water level.
Economic and ecological views on climate change mitigation with bioenergy and negative emissions
Authors: Creutzig Felix
Published: November 2014

Climate stabilization scenarios emphasize the importance of land‐based mitigation to achieve ambitious mitigation goals. The stabilization scenarios informing the recent IPCC's Fifth Assessment Report suggest that bioenergy could contribute anywhere between 10 and 245 EJ to climate change mitigation in 2100. High deployment of bioenergy with low life cycle GHG emissions would enable ambitious climate stabilization futures and reduce demands on other sectors and options. Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) would even enable so‐called negative emissions, possibly in the order of magnitude of 50% of today's annual gross emissions. Here, I discuss key assumptions that differ between economic and ecological perspectives. I find that high future yield assumptions, plausible in stabilization scenarios, look less realistic when evaluated in biophysical metrics. Yield assumptions also determine the magnitude of counterfactual land carbon stock development and partially determine the potential of BECCS. High fertilizer input required for high yields would likely hasten ecosystem degradation. I conclude that land‐based mitigation strategies remain highly speculative; a constant iteration between synoptic integrated assessment models and more particularistic and fine‐grained approaches is a crucial precondition for capturing complex dynamics and biophysical constraints that are essential for comprehensive assessments.
Effects of first‐ and second‐generation bioenergy crops on soil processes and legacy effects on a subsequent crop
Authors: Schrama Maarten , Vandecasteele Bart , Carvalho Sabrina , Muylle Hilde , van der Putten Wim H.
Published: November 2014

To develop a more sustainable bio‐based economy, an increasing amount of carbon for industrial applications and biofuel will be obtained from bioenergy crops. This may result in intensified land use and potential conflicts with other ecosystem services provided by soil, such as control of greenhouse gas emissions, carbon sequestration, and nutrient dynamics. A growing number of studies examine how bioenergy crops influence carbon and nitrogen cycling. Few studies, however, have combined such assessments with analysing both the immediate effects on the provisioning of soil ecosystem services as well as the legacy effects for subsequent crops in the rotation. Here, we present results from field and laboratory experiments on effects of a standard first‐generation bioenergy crop (maize) and three different second‐generation bioenergy crops (willow short rotation coppice (SRC), Miscanthus × giganteus, switchgrass) on key soil quality parameters: soil structure, organic matter, biodiversity and growth and disease susceptibility of a major follow‐up crop, wheat (Triticum aestivum). We analysed a 6‐year field experiment and show that willow SRC, Miscanthus, and maize maintained a high yield over this period. Soil quality parameters and legacy effects of Miscanthus and switchgrass were similar or performed worse than maize. In contrast, willow SRC enhanced soil organic carbon concentration (0–5 cm), soil fertility, and soil biodiversity in the upper soil layer when compared to maize. In a greenhouse experiment, wheat grown in willow soil had higher biomass production than when grown in maize or Miscanthus soil and exhibited no growth reduction in response to introduction of a soil‐borne (Rhizoctonia solani) or a leaf pathogen (Mycosphaerella graminicola). We conclude that the choice of bioenergy crops can greatly influence provisioning of soil ecosystem services and legacy effects in soil. Our results imply that bioenergy crops with specific traits might even enhance ecosystem properties through positive legacy effects.
Efficacy of magnesium chloride in the treatment of Hailey–Hailey disease: from serendipity to evidence of its effect on intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis
Authors: Borghi Alessandro , Rimessi Alessandro , Minghetti Sara , Corazza Monica , Pinton Paolo , Virgili Annarosa
Published: November 2014

Background

Hailey–Hailey disease (HHD), also known as familial benign chronic pemphigus, is a rare autosomal dominant inherited intraepidermal blistering genodermatosis. Mutations in the ATP2C1 gene encoding for the Golgi secretory pathway Ca2+/Mn2+‐ATPasi protein 1 (SPCA1) affect the processing of desmosomal components and the epidermal suprabasal cell–cell adhesion by deregulating the keratinocyte cytosolic Ca2+ concentration. We report the unexpected, dramatic, and persistent clinical improvement of the skin lesions of a patient affected with longstanding HHD with daily intake of a solution containing magnesium chloride hexahydrate (MgCl2).

Materials and methods

We investigated the effect of MgCl2 on the intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis and on the activity of particular Ca2+‐effectors in HeLa cells transfected with chimeric aequorins (cytAEQ, mtAEQ, erAEQ and GoAEQ) targeted to different subcellular compartments (cytosol, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi, respectively).

Results

Experimental investigations on HeLa cells showed the effect of MgCl2 on the function of Ca2+‐extrusor systems, resulting in increased cytosolic and mitochondrial Ca2+ levels, without altering the mechanisms of intraluminal Ca2+‐filling and Ca2+‐release of stores.

Conclusions

Based on our clinical observation and experimental results, it can be hypothesized that MgCl2 could act as an inhibitor of the Ca2+‐extruding activity in keratinocytes favoring intracellular Ca2+‐disponibility and Ca2+‐dependent mechanisms in desmosome assembly. This may represent the molecular basis of the good response of the HHD clinical features with MgCl2 solution in the patient described.
Intralesional vs. contact cryosurgery in treatment of keloids: a clinical and immunohistochemical study
Authors: Abdel‐Meguid Azza M. , Weshahy Ahmed Hany , Sayed Doaa S. , Refaiy Abeer E.M. , Awad Sara M.I.
Published: November 2014

Background

Cryosurgery is a safe and effective treatment of keloids. Intralesional cryosurgery has been shown to bring about significant improvement in keloids. The histopathological and immunohistochemical changes in keloids following cryosurgery are not well‐assessed.

Methods

Twenty‐three patients with 66 keloids were treated with either the contact (cryoprobe) method or intralesional cryosurgery. Keloid specimens were obtained before treatment and after two sessions of treatment for evaluation of keloid pathology and immunohistochemical changes in expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and tenascin C induced by both cryosurgical techniques.

Results

A better therapeutic response was detected after intralesional cryosurgery (excellent response [ER], 87%) than contact cryosurgery (ER, 60%; P < 0.05). The intralesional technique achieved higher rates of flattening after the first two sessions (ER in 61.3% and 22.9%, respectively; P < 0.05) and caused fewer side effects compared with the contact method. Both cryosurgical methods resulted in a significant decrease in VEGF and tenascin C expression in keloids.

Conclusions

Intralesional cryosurgery is superior to contact cryosurgery in terms of efficacy and safety. Both techniques may have beneficial effects on keloids, at least partially, through the modulation of VEGF and tenascin C expression.
Comparative Evaluation of Olopatadine Ophthalmic Solution (0.1%) Versus Ketorolac Ophthalmic Solution (0.5%) Using the Provocative Antigen Challenge Model
Authors: Deschenes J. , Discepola M. , Abelson M.
Published: November 2014

Objective: This study was conducted to compare the efficacy and safety of olopatadine ophthalmic solution (0.1%) with ketorolac ophthalmic solution (0.5%) in a clinical model of acute allergic conjunctivitis. Olopatadine is a dual acting H1 histamine receptor antagonist and a mast cell stabilizer, shown to be effective in treating allergic conjunctivitis. Ketorolac is a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug approved in the United States for the relief of ocular itching associated with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis.

Methods: The provocative antigen challenge model was used in this randomized, double‐blind, single‐center, crossover study. The allergen and concentration that consistently elicited a positive allergic reaction was used for challenge. After at least 14 days, subjects were randomized to receive either olopatadine in one eye and placebo in the contralateral eye, or ketorolac in one eye and placebo in the contralateral eye. Twenty‐seven minutes after drug instillation subjects were challenged with allergen. At 3, 10, and 20 minutes following allergen challenge, subjects graded ocular itching and were assessed for hyperemia in conjunctival, ciliary, and episcleral vessel beds. Approximately 14 days later, subjects received the alternate treatment in one eye and placebo in the contralateral eye. They were again challenged with allergen and their responses were rated in the same manner.

Results: Olopatadine significantly (p<0.0001) reduced both ocular itching and hyperemia in all three vessel beds compared to placebo at all time points tested following allergen challenge. Ketorolac did not significantly reduce itching and showed a trend of increased hyperemia compared to placebo. Olopatadine was significantly (p<0.001) more effective than ketorolac in reducing hyperemia and ocular itching at all time points and was also significantly (p<0.05) more comfortable than ketorolac as reported by subjects immediately following drug instillation.

Conclusion: The study demonstrated that olopatadine is effective and safe in preventing and treating ocular itching and hyperemia associated with acute allergic conjunctivitis and is more effective and more comfortable than ketorolac.
CONGENITAL RETINOSCHISIS
Authors: ODLAND MAGNUS
Published: November 2014

Four generations of a family with congenital retinoschisis are described. Six male members in the second generation suffer from this disease. The fundus changes in these patients were advanced with marked chorioretinal atrophy. Schisis of the retina was only seen in one of them. Three boys in the fourth generation exhibited retinoschisis with typical macula changes. One had detachment in one eye. ERG was in most cases subnormal or extinguished. Fluorescein angiography showed leakage of dye in 2 patients and one of these had vessel malformation.
ATROPHIA AREATA A VARIANT OF PERIPAPILLARY CHORIORETINAL DEGENERATION
Authors: MAGNÚSSON LOFTUR
Published: November 2014

In Northern Iceland 38 patients with atrophia areata were investigated, 26 belonging to a pedigree with a dominant inheritance. The atrophy in the retina and choroidea is always bilateral, radiating from the papilla, often symmetrically. The atrophy is slowly progressive, most likely beginning in the retinal pigment epithelium. Usually there is a combined myopia and astigmatism.
MICROPHTHALMOS AND COLOBOMATA AMONG MENTALLY RETARDED INDIVIDUALS
Authors: WARBURG METTE
Published: November 2014

Among 993 visually impaired mentally retarded persons 86 had microphthalmos or colobomata. The aetiology was prenatal infections in 16 cases, 6 had chromosomal aberrations, syndromes previously described were present in 14, private syndromes in 3. Although the malformation association observed in 36 patients had been previously described, it was imposible to assess whether the individual cases were due to environmental or genetic causes, and in 11 cases the associations were apparently previously undescribed.
FENESTRATED SHEEN MACULAR DYSTROPHY
Authors: SLAGSVOLD JON ERIK
Published: November 2014

A family is described showing small, grouped, red fenestrations of the macular region surrounding an intact foveolar reflex. The disease affected a father and his 2 daughters, and seems to be an autosomal dominant maculopathy. No functional abnormalities were disclosed and fluorescein angiography was normal. This family may represent the second family described with fenestrated sheen macular dystrophy.
DOMINANT PROGRESSIVE CONE‐ROD DYSTROPHY
Authors: VALLE OLAVI , ERKKILÄ HEIKKI , RAITTA CHRISTINA
Published: November 2014

The report describes a Finnish family in which retinal lesions associated with a considerable visual loss have been found in 19 probands in 5 consecutive generations. The progressive cone‐rod dystrophy diagnosed in the probands shows an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance. The onset of the disease was noticed in most of the probands early during the first decade of life. In the young diseased probands the fundal lesions showed the pattern found in pure cone dystrophies. Elder probands, however, had lesions and dysfunctions indicating an obvious rod involvement in addition to the cone dystrophic pattern. The fundal lesions included very extensive pigmentation in most of the elder probands with the disease. In addition to the retinal lesions, considerable astigmatism and lens opacities at the level of the posterior capsule were found in a great proportion of the probands.
EFFECT OF PROLONGED AND NEONATAL CAPSAICIN TREATMENTS ON THE SUBSTANCE P IMMUNOREACTIVE NERVES IN THE RABBIT EYE AND SPINAL CORD
Authors: TERVO KAARINA
Published: November 2014

Substance‐P (SP) immunoreactivity was demonstrated in the rabbit eye and spinal cord using monoclonal SP antibody and an indirect immunofluorescence technique. Norves containing SP immunoreactive material were found in the cornea, iris and ciliary body of which the iridic sphincter had the densest innervation. Neither prolonged subcutaneous treatment (up to 280 mg/kg) augmented by intracameral capsaicin injection nor neonatal treatment with drug 70 mg/kg eliminated this immunoreactivity, though both blocked the miotic effect of intracameral SP. It is concluded that capsaicin is not specific SP depleting agent but rather a neurotocic substance that affects noxious pathways and probably prevents the release of the SP retained by the nerve following the treatment used.
THE IMPORTANCE OF HEREDITY AND ENVIRONMENT IN THE ETIOLOGY OF LOW MYOPIA
Authors: GOLDSCHMIDT ERNST
Published: November 2014

The Third International Conference on Myopia took place in Copenhagen in August 1980, and with this background a review of current myopia research is given with special reference to the interaction between genetic and environmental factors.
PICTURE SIMULATION OF CONTRAST SENSITIVITY IN ORGANIC AND FUNCTIONAL AMBLYOPIA
Authors: LUNDH BJÖRN L , DEREFELDT GUNILLA , NYBERG STEN , LENNERSTRAND GUNNAR
Published: November 2014

We have tried to illustrate some contrast sensitivity defects by picture simulation. We have used data obtained from 2 patients: a woman with optic nerve lesion (Snellen VA 0.5) and a 7.5‐year‐old boy with anisometropic amblyopia (VA 0.6). The optic nerve lesion was represented by profound contrast sensitivity loss for all spatial frequencies, while the anisometropic eye showed loss only at high spatial frequencies. A positive picture was decomposed into 1.25 × 106 pixels (picture elements), using a drum scanner. In a computer each spatial frequency component of the picture was multiplied by the ratio between the patient sensitivity value and that of an age‐matched reference group and a modified image was processed. The pictures illustrate the poor image quality that is associated with general contrast sensitivity loss, even when Snellen visual acuity is only moderately impaired.