bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Ginseng and Echinacea on Cytokine mRNA Expression in Rats
Authors: Uluışık Deniz , Keskin Ercan
Published: May 2012

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of ginseng and echinacea on the mRNA expression of IL-10, TNF-α, and TGF-β1 in healthy rats. Six-week-old male Fischer 344 rats (n=48) were used. The animals were divided into three equal groups, as follows: control (C); ginseng (G); echinacea (E). While the C group was fed a standard rat diet (Purina)ad libitumfor a period of 40 days, the G and E groups animals received the same diet containing 0.5 g/kg ofPanax ginsengroot powder and 0.75 g/kg ofEchinacea purpurearoot powder, respectively. Blood samples were obtained from 8 rats in each group after 20 and 40 days of treatment, and the mRNA expression of IL-10, TNF-α, and TGF-β1 was determined. After 20 days of treatment, the expression of IL-10 mRNA in the G group was different from the C group (P<0.05); however, after 40 days of treatment, there was no difference between the groups. There was no difference after 20 and 40 days of treatment between the groups with respect to the expression of TGF-β1 mRNA. After 20 days of treatment, the expression of TNF-αmRNA in the E group was higher (P<0.05) than the C group. After 40 days of treatment, the expression of TNF-αmRNA was similar in all of the groups. Based on the current study, the increase in expression of IL-10 mRNA in the G group and the increase in expression of TNF-αmRNA in the E group support the use of these plants for purposes of modulating the immune system. However, a more detailed study regarding the effects of ginseng and echinacea on these cytokines and other cytokines is needed.
Large males fight and court more across a range of social environments: an experiment on the two spotted goby Gobiusculus flavescens
Authors: Wacker S. , de Jong K. , Forsgren E. , Amundsen T.
Published: May 2012

The present study explored how male size relates to mating competition across a natural range of male and female densities in the two‐spotted goby Gobiusculus flavescens. Across this range of social environments, large males were more than twice as likely as small ones to chase other males, to become nest‐holders, and to court females, but large males were not significantly more likely to engage in agonistic fin displays. Overall, the study showed that large males court and fight more than small ones across a wide, yet natural, span of social environments. Having a large body size appears to confer competitive advantage for males in any social environment of the study species. Further studies are needed to disentangle whether the benefit of large size is mainly in competition over resources, over matings as such, or both.
Under‐recognized complications in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria: raised pulmonary pressure and reduced right ventricular function
Authors: Hill Anita , Sapsford Robert J. , Scally Andrew , Kelly Richard , Richards Stephen J. , Khurisgara Gus , Sivananthan Mohan U. , Hillmen Peter
Published: May 2012

Pulmonary hypertension is becoming a recognized complication of the hereditary and acquired haemolytic anaemias, associated with a poor prognosis. Recently we reported that patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) have high levels of N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP), a biomarker associated with both right and left ventricular dysfunction and cardiac dysfunction. In the current study we evaluated a cohort of patients (N = 29) with haemolytic PNH for elevated pulmonary artery systolic pressure and cardiac function by Doppler‐echocardiography. Of the 29 patients, eight were further studied using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as well as two additional patients (number of patients studied using cardiac MRI = 10). Plasma from the first cohort (N = 29) demonstrated intravascular haemolysis associated with a 12‐fold increase in median nitric oxide (NO) consumption when compared with healthy volunteers (P < 0·001). Doppler echocardiography demonstrated normal left ventricular function and elevated pulmonary artery systolic pressure in 41% of patients. Cardiac MRI from the second cohort (N = 10) demonstrated depressed right ventricular function in 80% of PNH patients tested, and 60% had findings suggestive of subclinical small pulmonary emboli. Together, these data suggest a high prevalence of haemolysis‐associated NO scavenging, Doppler‐estimated systolic pulmonary hypertension, and depressed right ventricular function in patients with PNH.
What dietary modification best improves insulin sensitivity and why?
Authors: Weickert Martin O.
Published: May 2012

Insulin resistance (IR) has been proposed as the strongest single predictor for incident type 2 diabetes and is mainly caused by adiposity as a result of chronic excessive energy intake. Loss of body weight and fat mass improve insulin sensitivity. However, independent of energy intake and changes in body weight/composition, dietary content and specific metabolic effects of certain nutrients may play significant additional roles in influencing IR. These effects are mainly relatively modest, with modulation of IR and diabetes risk within the range of 10–30%, but could be of major relevance on a population level. Examples include dietary concepts and patterns such as the traditional Mediterranean diet; the isoenergetic modulation of the composition of types of fatty acids in the diet; low‐carbohydrate–high‐protein diets; the quality of carbohydrate‐rich foods, which includes the concepts of glycaemic index (GI) and glycaemic load; and, not necessarily related to the GI concept, specific metabolic effects of high‐fibre diets, with relevant differences between the type of fibre consumed. Effects of further selected foods (e.g. coffee, tea and nuts) and micronutrients (e.g. magnesium, selenium and zinc) on the modulation of IR have been reviewed elsewhere. This study focuses on changes in IR by isoenergetic modulation of the main macronutrients (fat, carbohydrates including dietary fibre, and dietary protein), with discussion of novel concepts and the potential interplay of food components in the current dietary concepts.
Food‐web‐mediated effects of climate warming: consequences for the seasonal Daphnia dynamics
Authors: WAGNER ANNEKATRIN , HÜLSMANN STEPHAN , HORN WOLFGANG , SCHILLER THOMAS , SCHULZE TORSTEN , VOLKMANN SVEN , BENNDORF JÜRGEN
Published: May 2012

1. In an extensive field study, we tested the hypothesis that warming during a sensitive period alters trophic interactions in pelagic food webs of dimictic lakes: Matching of predation on the key herbivore Daphnia by vertebrate (Perca fluviatilis) and invertebrate (Leptodora kindtii) predators would destabilise Daphnia populations during summer. To predict food‐web‐mediated effects of climate warming, we relied on phase‐specific warming trends (during winter, early thermal stratification, summer stagnation) of an 11‐year (1999–2009) period to study instantaneous or time‐delayed ecological responses.

2. Warming during the period of early thermal stratification (here corresponding to May) rather than during winter or summer was found to generate complex, time‐delayed cascading effects on Daphnia via timing and rates of predation. In contrast to our hypothesis, warming exceeding a critical mean temperature (14 °C) during May increased the stability of the Daphnia population during summer.

3. The termination of predation on Daphnia by older perch and L. kindtii was advanced even stronger (14 days per degree Celsius warming during May) than the start of predation. Warming during May thus shortened the period of synchronised predation on Daphnia by older perch, young‐of‐the‐year perch and L. kindtii (match index) by up to 4 weeks, thereby decreasing total rates of predation on Daphnia during July by up to 40%.

4. The timing of the top‐down control of Leptodora dynamics by perch proved to be a key process for population stability of Daphnia during summer compared to the less important direct cascading effect of fish on Daphnia and temperature effects on Leptodora growth and consumption or on Daphnia reproduction.

5. We conclude that predicting the consequences of climate warming for plankton dynamics requires a mechanistic understanding of lake‐specific temperature‐driven changes in trophic cascades, especially when an invertebrate predator is dynamically coupled both to the key herbivore and to their predators.
Tracking climate impacts on the migratory monarch butterfly
Authors: Zipkin Elise F. , Ries Leslie , Reeves Rick , Regetz James , Oberhauser Karen S.
Published: May 2012

Understanding the impacts of climate on migratory species is complicated by the fact that these species travel through several climates that may be changing in diverse ways throughout their complete migratory cycle. Most studies are not designed to tease out the direct and indirect effects of climate at various stages along the migration route. We assess the impacts of spring and summer climate conditions on breeding monarch butterflies, a species that completes its annual migration cycle over several generations. No single, broad‐scale climate metric can explain summer breeding phenology or the substantial year‐to‐year fluctuations observed in population abundances. As such, we built aPoisson regression model to help explain annual arrival times and abundances in theMidwesternUnitedStates. We incorporated the climate conditions experienced both during a spring migration/breeding phase in Texas as well as during subsequent arrival and breeding during the main recruitment period inOhio. Using data from a state‐wide butterfly monitoring network inOhio, our results suggest that climate acts in conflicting ways during the spring and summer seasons. High spring precipitation inTexas is associated with the largest annual population growth inOhio and the earliest arrival to the summer breeding ground, as are intermediate spring temperatures inTexas. On the other hand, the timing of monarch arrivals to the summer breeding grounds is not affected by climate conditions withinOhio. Once inOhio for summer breeding, precipitation has minimal impacts on overall abundances, whereas warmer summer temperatures are generally associated with the highest expected abundances, yet this effect is mitigated by the average seasonal temperature of each location in that the warmest sites receive no benefit of above average summer temperatures. Our results highlight the complex relationship between climate and performance for a migrating species and suggest that attempts to understand how monarchs will be affected by future climate conditions will be challenging.
Effects of climate warming on polar bears: a review of the evidence
Authors: Stirling Ian , Derocher Andrew E.
Published: May 2012

Climate warming is causing unidirectional changes to annual patterns of sea ice distribution, structure, and freeze‐up. We summarize evidence that documents how loss of sea ice, the primary habitat of polar bears (Ursus maritimus), negatively affects their long‐term survival. To maintain viable subpopulations, polar bears depend on sea ice as a platform from which to hunt seals for long enough each year to accumulate sufficient energy (fat) to survive periods when seals are unavailable. Less time to access to prey, because of progressively earlier breakup in spring, when newly weaned ringed seal (Pusa hispida) young are available, results in longer periods of fasting, lower body condition, decreased access to denning areas, fewer and smaller cubs, lower survival of cubs as well as bears of other age classes and, finally, subpopulation decline toward eventual extirpation. The chronology of climate‐driven changes will vary between subpopulations, with quantifiable negative effects being documented first in the more southerly subpopulations, such as those inHudsonBay or the southernBeaufortSea. As the bears' body condition declines, more seek alternate food resources so the frequency of conflicts between bears and humans increases. In the most northerly areas, thick multiyear ice, through which little light penetrates to stimulate biological growth on the underside, will be replaced by annual ice, which facilitates greater productivity and may create habitat more favorable to polar bears over continental shelf areas in the short term. If the climate continues to warm and eliminate sea ice as predicted, polar bears will largely disappear from the southern portions of their range by mid‐century. They may persist in the northernCanadianArcticIslands and northernGreenland for the foreseeable future, but their long‐term viability, with a much reduced global population size in a remnant of their former range, is uncertain.
SOX11 is useful in differentiating cyclin D1‐positive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma from mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Hsiao Shih‐Chuan , Cortada Inmaculada Ribera , Colomo Luis , Ye Hongtao , Liu Hongxiang , Kuo Szu‐Yin , Lin Shu‐Hui , Chang Sheng‐Tsung , Kuo Ted U , Campo Elias , Chuang Shih‐Sung
Published: May 2012

Hsiao S‐C, Cortada I R, Colomo L, Ye H, Liu H, Kuo S‐Y, Lin S‐H, Chang S‐T, Kuo T U, Campo E & Chuang S‐S  (2012) Histopathology 61, 685–693

SOX11 is useful in differentiating cyclin D1‐positive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma from mantle cell lymphoma

Aims:  To characterize the frequency and clinicopathological features of cyclin D1‐positive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and the usefulness of SOX11 in the differential diagnosis from mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).

Methods and results:  We retrospectively stained 206 consecutive DLBCLs for cyclin D1, and identified three (1.5%) positive cases, comprising two in the elderly with necrosis, and a third with a starry‐sky pattern. All three cases shared the same non‐germinal centre B‐cell (non‐GCB) phenotype [CD5−/CD10−/bcl‐6+/MUM1+/SOX11−], Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) negativity, and absence of CCND1 aberrations by fluorescence in‐situ hybridization. The third case showed both BCL6 and MYC rearrangements: a double‐hit lymphoma. In the same period there were 22 MCLs, all expressing cyclin D1, with 89% cases expressing SOX11, a frequency that is statistically different from cyclin D1‐positive DLBCL. Notably, we identified a pleomorphic MCL initially misdiagnosed as DLBCL. A separate cohort of 98 DLBCL cases was negative for SOX11, with only one case expressing cyclin D1 with a GCB phenotype (CD10+/bcl‐6+/MUM1−). The two patients with tumour necrosis rapidly died of disease. The other two were in complete remission after immunochemotherapy.

Conclusions:  Cyclin D1‐positive DLBCLs are rare, and they are negative for SOX11 or CCND1 aberration. SOX11 is useful in differentiating cyclin D1‐positive DLBCL from MCL.
Amyloid substance within stenotic aortic valves promotes mineralization
Authors: Audet Audrey , Côté Nancy , Couture Christian , Bossé Yohan , Després Jean‐Pierre , Pibarot Philippe , Mathieu Patrick
Published: May 2012

Audet A, Côté N, Couture C, Bossé Y, Després J‐P, Pibarot P & Mathieu P  (2012) Histopathology 61, 610–619

Amyloid substance within stenotic aortic valves promotes mineralization

Aims:  Accumulation of apolipoproteins may play an important role in the pathobiology of calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD). We aimed to explore the hypothesis that apolipoprotein‐derived amyloid could play a role in the development of CAVD.

Methods and results:  In 70 explanted CAVD valves and 15 control non‐calcified aortic valves, we assessed the presence of amyloid by using Congo red staining. Immunohistochemistry was performed to document the presence of apolipoprotein AI (Apo‐AI). Apoptosis was documented by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) studies performed in control and CAVD valves. Control valves were free of amyloid. Deposition of amyloid was detected in all CAVD valves, and the amount was positively correlated with plasma high‐density lipoprotein and Apo‐AI levels. Apo‐AI within CAVD valves co‐localized with intense staining of fibrillar amyloid. In turn, deposition of amyloid co‐localized with apoptosis near mineralized areas. Isolation of amyloid fibrils confirmed that Apo‐AI is a major component of amyloid deposits in CAVD. In vitro, CAVD‐derived amyloid extracts increased apoptosis and mineralization of isolated aortic valvular interstitial cells.

Conclusions:  Apo‐AI is a major component of amyloid substance present within CAVD valves. Furthermore, amyloid deposits participate in mineralization in CAVD by promoting apoptosis of valvular interstitial cells.
Comparison of the effect of different techniques for measurement of Ki67 proliferation on reproducibility and prognosis prediction accuracy in breast cancer
Authors: Gudlaugsson Einar , Skaland Ivar , Janssen Emiel A M , Smaaland Rune , Shao Zhiming , Malpica Anais , Voorhorst Feja , Baak Jan P A
Published: May 2012

Gudlaugsson E, Skaland I, Janssen E A M, Smaaland R, Shao Z, Malpica A, Voorhorst F & Baak J P A  (2012) Histopathology Comparison of the effect of different techniques for measurement of Ki67 proliferation on reproducibility and prognosis prediction accuracy in breast cancer

Aims:  The proliferation factor Ki67 is prognostic in breast cancer and included in international therapy guidelines, but measurement procedures differ between laboratories. We compared the reproducibility and prognostic value of different Ki67 sampling and measurement methods.

Methods and results:  In 237 T1,2N0M0 breast cancers without adjuvant systemic treatment, strictly standardized section thickness, automated antigen retrieval and immunohistochemistry were used. The percentages of Ki67‐positive nuclei were assessed using (i) a ‘quick‐scan rapid estimate’, (ii) ocular‐square‐guided counts by independent pathologists, (iii) computerized point‐grid‐sampling interactive morphometry (CIM) and (iv) automated digital image analysis (DIA). Quick‐scan rapid estimates were poorly reproducible. The optimal prognostic thresholds of Ki67 counts by two pathologists differed greatly (4%, 14%; kappa: 0.36), with many therapeutic differences. CIM‐Ki67 and DIA‐Ki67 were strongly prognostic (P < 0.0001) and reproducible. DIA‐Ki67 (threshold: 6.5%) was the strongest and most robust prognosticator (the threshold could vary from 4 to 15% without significant prognostic loss). Ki67 was prognostically strongest in the periphery of the tumour.

Conclusion:   In node‐negative breast cancer without adjuvant systemic treatment, Ki67% by DIA, but not subjective counts, is reproducible and prognostically strong. This casts serious doubt on therapeutic guidelines using subjective counts of Ki67.
Lucid dreaming: an age‐dependent brain dissociation
Authors: VOSS URSULA , FRENZEL CLEMENS , KOPPEHELE‐GOSSEL JUDITH , HOBSON ALLAN
Published: May 2012

The current study focused on the distribution of lucid dreams in school children and young adults. The survey was conducted on a large sample of students aged 6–19 years. Questions distinguished between past and current experience with lucid dreams. Results suggest that lucid dreaming is quite pronounced in young children, its incidence rate drops at about age 16 years. Increased lucidity was found in those attending higher level compared with lower level schools. Taking methodological issues into account, we feel confident to propose a link between the natural occurrence of lucid dreaming and brain maturation.
Early characterization of maize plants in selection cycles under soil flooding*
Authors: De Souza Thiago C. , De Castro Evaristo M. , Magalhães Paulo C. , Alves Elícia T. , Pereira Fabrício J.
Published: May 2012

With 2 figures and 3 tables

To insert maize crop in the lowlands, the National Maize and Sorghum Research Center has developed, through the recurrent phenotypical selection, a maize variety called Saracura‐BRS‐4154, which has the capability to survive in periods of flooding. This study was carried out with the purpose of characterizing young plants of successive selection cycles of the variety ‘Saracura’, under flooding, concerning the morpho‐physiology. The assay was carried out in greenhouse by sowing 10 alternate selection cycles and a BR 107 variety known for its susceptibility to flooding. It was found that the last selection cycles resulted in a greater development of thin roots, greater volume and root length. The selection cycles decreased the exodermis and increased aerenchyma formation in the roots over time. There was also leaf plasticity throughout the cycles, and it was noted an increase in the gas exchange parameters and also in the stomata number and size. Our results showed that there was a genetic gain in the morpho‐physiological changes related to flooding throughout the selection cycles of ‘Saracura’ maize young plants.
Juvenile xanthogranulomas of the nervous system: A report of two cases and review of the literature
Authors: Deisch Jeremy K. , Patel Rajankumar , Koral Korgun , Cope‐Yokoyama Sandy D.
Published: May 2012

Juvenile xanthogranulomas (JXG) are uncommon non‐Langerhans cell histiocytic proliferations which arise most often in children. While most cases present as solitary cutaneous lesions, occasional cases involve extracutaneous sites. Rare examples of JXGs have been reported involving all levels of the neuroaxis. We present two cases of JXGs involving the nervous system, and review the literature. The first patient was a 14‐year‐old female with headaches and a mass involving the left trigeminal nerve; pathologic examination showed a JXG. At 11 months follow‐up, after administration of systemic chemotherapy, the patient remained stable with residual tumor. The second patient was a 15‐year‐old female with leg weakness and numbness, who underwent complete surgical resection of a dural JXG. At eight months follow‐up, she showed no evidence of tumor, and was able to walk without difficulty. Review of the literature revealed 38 previously published reports of JXGs involving the nervous system. The CNS was involved in the majority (75%) of cases. The clinical characteristics of JXGs arising in the CNS varied significantly from cases in the peripheral nervous system (PNS); CNS tumors occurred in younger patients, more often males, and were more likely to be associated with concurrent cutaneous and extra‐nervous systemic lesions. The clinical outcomes were similar for CNS and PNS lesions, with the caveat that all three lethal JXGs occurred in the CNS. The clinical and radiologic presentation of JXGs is nonspecific, thus necessitating biopsy and pathologic examination to arrive at the diagnosis. The pathologic differential diagnosis includes a heterogeneous group of histiocytic proliferations; immunostaining for histiocytic markers CD68, factor XIIIa, and Fascin, and the absence of Birbeck granules and CD1a immunoexpression suggests the diagnosis of JXG. In many cases, total surgical resection is curative. However, some cases will require additional chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy.
Ultraviolet reflectance mediates pollinator visitation in Mimulus guttatus
Authors: RAE JASON M. , VAMOSI JANA C.
Published: May 2012

Floral colors are widely believed to be an adaptation to attract pollinators. Recently, our understanding of floral reflectance has broadened to include colors that are beyond the spectrum that human eyes can perceive (such as ultraviolet (UV) reflectance), yet we still know relatively little about which plant species reflect UV light or its effectiveness in attracting pollinators. We investigated the effect of UV reflectance in Mimulus guttatus in a number of different populations in British Columbia, Canada. We found that M. guttatus had distinct regions of the corolla where UV light was reflected and absorbed. When we manipulated the degree of contrast between the reflection and absorption area, we found that pollinator visitation was severely disrupted, in terms of frequency and foraging patterns observed. Despite the bright yellow (bee‐green) coloration and visible nectar guides in M. guttatus, we conclude that UV reflectance is critical in pollinator attraction.
Neoadjuvant therapy of renal cell carcinoma: A novel treatment option in the era of targeted therapy?
Authors: Schrader Andres J , Steffens Sandra , Schnoeller Thomas J , Schrader Mark , Kuczyk Markus A
Published: May 2012

The study was carried out to evaluate the effectiveness, toxicity and optimal duration of neoadjuvant therapy for patients with organ‐confined or locally advanced renal cell carcinoma in the era of targeted agents. A literature review was carried out using Medline/Pubmed articles, as well as congress reports from the last five American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Urological Association and European Association of Urology Annual Meetings. Neoadjuvant targeted therapy is feasible and shows toxicity similar to that seen in a palliative setting. Most studies recommend an application for 2–4 months. The current data situation is best for sunitinib. Surgery can apparently be carried out the day right after discontinuing the drug. However, even sunitinib leads to only a mean 10% decrease in primary tumor size, and one‐quarter to one‐fifth of all patients show local tumor progression during treatment. Few patients (approximately 12%) with a vena cava tumor thrombus achieve a significant decrease in its level under neoadjuvant therapy; here too, progression is observed in a significant number of cases. Even the new targeted agents show limited effectiveness in achieving relevant remissions of the primary tumor. Furthermore, tumor progression is seen in a significant percentage of patients during neoadjuvant therapy. Thus, even today in the era of targeted agents, a neoadjuvant approach should only be made in patients with localized or locally advanced renal cell carcinoma, which primarily seem to be absolutely inaccessible by (partial) nephrectomy.
Safety and efficacy of substituting nedaplatin after carboplatin hypersensitivity reactions in gynecologic malignancies
Authors: Michikami Hiroo , Minaguchi Takeo , Ochi Hiroyuki , Onuki Mamiko , Okada Satoshi , Matsumoto Koji , Satoh Toyomi , Oki Akinori , Yoshikawa Hiroyuki
Published: May 2012

Aim:  Repeated treatment with carboplatin increases the incidence of hypersensitivity reactions. Current managements for carboplatin hypersensitivity reactions involve premedication, desensitization, and replacing agents. However, preventive effects for recurrent reactions by the former two methods are still limited, and substituting non‐platinum agent can attenuate efficacy against platinum‐sensitive diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of substituting nedaplatin, another platinum compound, as a strategy to deal with carboplatin hypersensitivity reactions in gynecologic cancers.

Material and Methods:  Patients who experienced carboplatin hypersensitivity reactions and subsequently switched to nedaplatin between 2001 and 2009 were identified through our database. The incidence and severity of nedaplatin hypersensitivity were examined. Response to nedaplatin therapy was evaluated according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) and serum CA‐125 levels.

Results:  Forty‐six of 570 patients (8.1%) experienced carboplatin hypersensitivity reactions, and the increased cycle numbers of carboplatin‐based regimens correlated with the high incidence of hypersensitivity (≤6, 0.9% vs ≥7, 19.2%). Of these 46 patients, 38 subsequently switched to nedaplatin‐based regimens (ovarian, tubal or peritoneal carcinoma, 30; endometrial carcinoma, 6; cervical carcinoma, 2). Three of the 38 patients (7.9%) eventually developed hypersensitivity against nedaplatin, and all their reactions were grade 2. The response rate to nedaplatin therapy among 32 evaluable patients was 31.3%.

Conclusion:  Replacing carboplatin with nedaplatin provided a safe and efficacious approach to manage carboplatin hypersensitivity. To the authors' knowledge, this study is the first to indicate the usefulness of nedaplatin after carboplatin hypersensitivity reactions. Further evaluations are warranted to confirm our finding.
Linking visual response properties in the superior colliculus to saccade behavior
Authors: Marino Robert A. , Levy Ron , Boehnke Susan , White Brian J. , Itti Laurent , Munoz Douglas P.
Published: May 2012

Here we examined the influence of the visual response in the superior colliculus (SC) (an oculomotor control structure integrating sensory, motor and cognitive signals) on the development of the motor command that drives saccadic eye movements in monkeys. We varied stimulus luminance to alter the timing and magnitude of visual responses in the SC and examined how these changes correlated with resulting saccade behavior. Increasing target luminance resulted in multiple modulations of the visual response, including increased magnitude and decreased response onset latency. These signal modulations correlated strongly with changes in saccade latency and metrics, indicating that these signal properties carry through to the neural computations that determine when, where and how fast the eyes will move. Thus, components of the earliest part of the visual response in the SC provide important building blocks for the neural basis of the sensory–motor transformation, highlighting a critical link between the properties of the visual response and saccade behavior.
Use of phytoplankton‐derived dissolved organic carbon by different types of bacterioplankton
Authors: Sarmento Hugo , Gasol Josep M.
Published: May 2012

Phytoplankton and heterotrophic prokaryotes are major components of the microbial food web and interact continuously: heterotrophic prokaryotes utilize the dissolved organic carbon derived from phytoplankton exudation or cell lysis (DOCp), and mineralization by heterotrophic prokaryotes provides inorganic nutrients for phytoplankton. For this reason, these communities are expected to be closely linked, although the study of the interactions between them is still a major challenge. Recent studies have presented interactions between phytoplankton and heterotrophic prokaryotes based on coexistence or covariation throughout a time‐series. However, a real quantification of the carbon flow within these networks (defined as the interaction strength, IS) has not been achieved yet. This is critical to understand the selectivity degree of bacteria responding to specific algal DOCp. Here we used microautoradiography to quantify the preferences of the major heterotrophic prokaryote phylogenetic groups on DOC derived from several representative phytoplankton species, and expressed these preferences as an IS value. The distribution of the ISs was not random but rather skewed towards weak interactions, in a similar way as the distributions described for stable complex non‐microbial ecosystems, indicating that there are some cases of high specificity on the use of specific algal DOCp by some bacterial groups, but weak interactions are more common and may be relevant as well. The variety of IS patterns observed supports the view that the vast range of different resources (different types of organic molecules) available in the sea selects and maintains the high levels of diversity described for marine bacterioplankton.
Diode laser endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation in the normal equine eye
Authors: Harrington Jay T. , McMullen Richard J. , Cullen John M. , Campbell Nigel B. , Gilger Brian C.
Published: May 2012

Objective To determine the clinical and histologic effects of diode endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) in the phakic equine eye.

Animals studied Phase I: 10 equine cadaver eyes. Phase II: four normal adult horses.

Procedures Phase I: ECP probe angle of reach (AR) was determined. Multiple ECP energy levels: 0.75, 0.90, 1.05, 1.20, 1.35, 1.50 J, and the resulting visible and histologic ciliary process changes were evaluated. Phase II: Ocular quadrants were treated with ECP at 0.90, 1.14, 1.38 J, and a control. The contralateral eye underwent a sham operation. Tissue changes (clinical and histologic) were evaluated.

Results Phase I: Mean combined AR was 162 ± 29 degrees. Mean visible tissue scores: 2.60 ± 0.58 (0.75 J) to 5.04 ± 0.30 (1.50 J) from possible total of 6. Tissue ‘popping’ was observed at 1.50 J. Histologic ciliary tissue damage was present at all settings. Phase II: Mean visible tissue scores: 2.90 ± 0.48 (0.90 J), 3.61 ± 0.57 (1.14 J), and 4.52 ± 0.56 (1.38 J). Tissue ‘popping’ was observed at 1.38 J. Histologic ciliary tissue damage was present at all settings. Clinical effects included acute inflammation, intraocular pressure reduction, cataract formation, corneal edema, corneal ulceration, and postoperative ocular hypertension.

Conclusions Diode ECP between 0.90 and 1.14 J is a potential treatment option for glaucoma in horses based on visible tissue effects and target ciliary epithelium damage. Iatrogenic cataract development may limit the use of an anterior chamber approach in phakic horses. Supported in part by an ACVO VAF grant.
The relationship between cognition and sensation in determining when and where to void: the concept of cognitive voiding
Authors: Harvey Joan , Finney Steven , Stewart Laurence , Gillespie James
Published: May 2012

Study Type – Aetiology (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

The factors taken into consideration when determining when and where to void are poorly understood. Studies on bladder sensations, obtained during cystometry of from voiding diaries, are proving difficult to transfer to everyday experiences. There is therefore a need to explore what does influence when and where to void.

This study, using focus groups, highlights the fact that many voids are driven by behavioural factors not by sensations of desire or need to void. It is further noted that a key factor in the final decision to void is an awareness of bladder volume. The concepts of ‘cognitive voiding’ informed by ‘bladder awareness’ are introduced and, if correct, will influence the way studies are devised and interpreted to explore lower urinary tract dysfunction and pharmacotherapy.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the inter‐relationship between conscious decision‐making processes and bladder sensation in determining the need, time and place to void

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The approach used interview focus groups and qualitative thematic analysis. In this preliminary study, 25 women were included (aged 21–90 years) meeting in groups of one to five on four occasions.

RESULTS

The thematic analysis yielded six themes: temporal and cognitive maps, risk issues, habituation and opportunistic behaviour and awareness of the bladder.

For most voids, the decision to void was not based on sensation but determined by multiple factors: personal knowledge of time of last void, anticipated time to next void, proximity of toilets, a risk assessment or habituated behaviour.

As the bladder filled the subjects described an increasing awareness of their bladder. Such sensations were not immediately associated with desire to void. Rather, these sensations were described as influencing the cognitive processes of considering when and where to void.

A sub‐group of subjects reported little awareness as their bladder filled, experiencing only sudden strong sensations that needed immediate action for fear of leakage.

CONCLUSIONS

The decision to void is primarily a cognitive process influenced by multiple elements of which bladder awareness is only one.

Mechanisms generating awareness may be intensified or lost reflecting possible different pathological states. The importance of these observations in relation to current views of normal and abnormal voiding is discussed.
Livelihood diversification strategies in the Himalayas*
Authors: Rahut Dil Bahadur , Micevska Scharf Maja
Published: May 2012

This article examines livelihood diversification strategies of rural households using survey data from the Himalayas. We present and explore an analytical framework that yields different activity choices as optimal solutions to a simple utility maximization problem. By classifying the range of activities of rural households into a few distinct categories based on their profitability and by considering portfolios of farm and non‐farm activities, we provide novel insights into diversification behaviour of rural households. The evidence shows that while the poor are mainly agricultural labourers and work in the low‐return non‐farm sector, the better‐off diversify in high‐return non‐farm activities. As expected, we find strong evidence that education plays a major role in accessing more remunerative non‐farm employment. A somewhat less intuitive finding is that larger household size is associated with higher probability of diversification into the high‐return non‐farm sector. The finding that the farm size is not a constraint to diversification in lucrative non‐farm employment is also surprising. Geographical location plays a role in diversification behaviour of rural households indicating the importance of local context.
NON‐LINEAR PREDICTABILITY IN G7 STOCK INDEX RETURNS*
Authors: LIM KIAN‐PING , HOOY CHEE‐WOOI
Published: May 2012

This paper re‐examines the persistence and source of non‐linear predictability in the stock markets of G7 countries. Applying the Brock–Dechert–Scheinkman (BDS) test on autoregression (AR)‐filtered returns in rolling estimation windows, we find evidence of local non‐linear predictability in all the sampled stock markets. To identify the source, we apply the BDS test on AR‐generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH)‐filtered returns in rolling windows. After accounting for conditional heteroskedasticity, we still find brief time periods with non‐linear predictability in all markets, contradicting the weak‐form efficient markets hypothesis.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FORMAL EDUCATION AND SKILL ACQUISITION IN YOUNG WORKERS' FIRST JOBS*
Authors: VERHAEST DIETER , OMEY EDDY
Published: May 2012

We analyse whether formal education and on‐the‐job skill acquisition are substitutes or complements for a sample of Flemish school‐leavers. Skill acquisition is measured directly through subjective assessments. We find that higher educated workers are more likely to acquire additional skills. While this is primarily explained by between‐occupation effects, also within‐occupation effects are revealed. Undereducated workers have lower overall skill acquisition probabilities than adequately educated workers in similar occupations; overeducated workers with a vocational degree acquire fewer transferable or general skills than their adequately educated colleagues. Overeducated workers also acquire fewer additional skills than adequately educated workers with similar educational backgrounds.
The value of serial plasma nuclear and mitochondrial DNA levels in acute spontaneous intra‐cerebral haemorrhage
Authors: Wang H.‐C. , Lin Y.‐J. , Lin W.‐C. , Ho J.‐T. , Chen W.‐F. , Chang W.‐N. , Tsai N.‐W. , Lu C.‐H.
Published: May 2012

Background

Increased plasma nuclear and mitochondrial DNA levels may be connected to disease severity following spontaneous intra‐cerebral haemorrhage (ICH). This study tested the hypothesis that plasma nuclear and mitochondrial DNA levels are substantially increased in acute ICH and can predict treatment outcomes.

Methods

Serial plasma nuclear and mitochondrial DNA levels were examined in 60 consecutive patients admitted within 24 h after onset of spontaneous ICH and in 60 volunteer control subjects. Additional samples were obtained on days 4, 7, 10, and 14 after onset of ICH regardless of clinical deterioration.

Results

Only plasma nuclear DNA, not plasma mitochondrial DNA, levels in patients with spontaneous ICH significantly correlated with Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) (r = −0.467, P = 0.001) and ICH volume (r = 0.515, P ≤ 0.001) on presentation. Plasma nuclear DNA levels increased significantly from day 1 to day 7 in patients with poor outcome. Higher plasma nuclear DNA levels (cut‐off value >18.7 ng/ml) on presentation were associated with poor outcomes in spontaneous ICH patients.

Conclusion

Plasma nuclear DNA levels reflect the severity of cerebral damage such that higher levels are associated with poorer outcome. Plasma nuclear DNA level can be considered a neuropathologic marker of acute spontaneous ICH.
Mycoheterotrophic germination of Pyrola asarifolia dust seeds reveals convergences with germination in orchids
Authors: Hashimoto Yasushi , Fukukawa Satoru , Kunishi Ayako , Suga Haruhisa , Richard Franck , Sauve Mathieu , Selosse Marc‐André
Published: May 2012

See also the Commentary by Hynson et al
Endosperm: food for humankind and fodder for scientific discoveries
Authors: Li Jing , Berger Frédéric
Published: May 2012

The endosperm is an essential constituent of seeds in flowering plants. It originates from a fertilization event parallel to the fertilization that gives rise to the embryo. The endosperm nurtures embryo development and, in some species including cereals, stores the seed reserves and represents a major source of food for humankind. Endosperm biology is characterized by specific features, including idiosyncratic cellular controls of cell division and epigenetic controls associated with parental genomic imprinting. This review attempts a comprehensive summary of our current knowledge of endosperm development and highlights recent advances in this field.

Contents

Summary
290

I.
Introduction
290

II.
Development of the endosperm
291

III.
Patterning the endosperm
294

IV.
Control of endosperm size and its influence on seed size
295

V.
Hormonal physiology of the A. thaliana endosperm
298

VI.
Epigenetic regulation of the endosperm
298

VII.
Conclusions
301

Acknowledgements
301

References
301
Epidermolysis Bullosa Simplex with Mottled Pigmentation: A Family Report and Review
Authors: Echeverría‐García Begoña , Vicente Asunción , Hernández Ángela , Mascaró Jose M. , Colmenero Isabel , Terrón Ana , Escámez María J. , del Río Marcela , González‐Enseñat Maria A. , Torrelo Antonio
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  Epidermolysis bullosa simplex with mottled hyperpigmentation (EBS‐MP) is an uncommon subtype of EBS. Its clinical features depend on the age of diagnosis, and clinical variations have been described even within family members. We present six cases from two unrelated Spanish families each with several affected members with EBS‐MP and review the clinical and genetic findings in all reported patients. We highlight the changing clinical features of the disease throughout life.
Atrophic Congenital Melanocytic Nevus Mimicking Rapidly Involuting Congenital Hemangioma
Authors: Novoa‐Candia Mónica P. , Baselga Eulalia , Aguilera Paula , Tresserra Francesc
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  Congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN) are benign skin lesions present in some newborns. We describe a newborn boy with a giant CMN on the scalp. It appeared as an atrophic patch with a central nodule that was suggestive of a rapidly involuting congenital hemangioma or some other vascular tumor. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of CMN. Magnetic resonance imaging was normal, excluding leptomeningeal melanocytosis. We did not find any other cases of CMN with this presentation in the literature.
Fall Prediction According to Nurses' Clinical Judgment: Differences Between Medical, Surgical, and Geriatric Wards
Authors: Milisen Koen , Coussement Joke , Flamaing Johan , Vlaeyen Ellen , Schwendimann René , Dejaeger Eddy , Surmont Kurt , Boonen Steven
Published: May 2012

Objectives

To assess the value of nurses' clinical judgment (NCJ) in predicting hospital inpatient falls.

Design

Prospective multicenter study.

Setting

Six Belgian hospitals.

Participants

Two thousand four hundred seventy participants (mean age 67.6 ± 18.3; female, 55.7%) on four surgical (n = 812, 32.9%), eight geriatric (n = 666, 27.0%), and four general medical wards (n = 992, 40.1%) were included upon admission. All participants were hospitalized for at least 48 hours.

Measurements

Within 24 hours after admission, nurses gave their judgment on the question “Do you think your patient is at high risk for falling?” Nurses were not trained in assessing fall risk. Falls were documented on a standardized incident report form.

Results

During hospitalization, 143 (5.8%) participants experienced one or more falls, accounting for 202 falls and corresponding to an overall rate of 7.9 falls per 1,000 patient days. NCJ of participant's risk of falling had high sensitivity (78–92%) with high negative predictive value (94–100%) but low positive predictive value (4–17%). Although false‐negative rates were low (8–22%) for all departments and age groups, false‐positive rates were high (55–74%), except on surgical and general medical wards and in participants younger than 75.

Conclusion

This analysis, based on multicenter data and a large sample size, suggests that NCJ can be recommended on surgical and general medical wards and in individuals younger than 75, but on geriatric wards and in participants aged 75 and older, NCJ overestimates risk of falling and is thus not recommended because expensive comprehensive fall‐prevention measures would be implemented in a large number of individuals who do not need it.
Palliative Care Teaching in Medical Residency: A Review of Two POGO‐e Teaching Products
Authors: Lim Lionel S. , Kandavelou Karthikeyan , Khan Nabeela
Published: May 2012

This is a comparison review of GeriaSims and Care of the Aging Medical Patient (CHAMP) modules addressing issues in palliative and hospice medicine found in the Portal of Geriatric Online Education, a free on‐line repository of geriatric educational materials for medical educators. GeriaSims is a self‐directed teaching module designed to systematically address many of the important questions involved in caring for individuals with chronic progressive and life‐limiting illnesses. It is well suited for physicians, particularly medical residents and fellows in‐training, who provide care for medically complicated elderly and terminally ill individuals. The CHAMP module is designed to familiarize physician educators with palliative and hospice medicine basics to teach residents and fellows through didactic slides, although it can probably be adapted for use by residents and fellows if audio commentary accompanies the slides. Both modules address practical approaches to addressing palliative care in patients and their families. They are useful teaching tools that address an important learning need and can be readily used to supplement current residency curriculum in hospice and palliative medicine.