bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chitinophaga
ginsengihumi sp. nov., isolated from soil of ginseng rhizosphere
Authors: Lee Jae-Chan , Whang Kyung-Sook
Published: May 2014

A novel strain designated SR18T was isolated from the rhizosphere soil of a ginseng in Korea. Cells were Gram-staining-negative, motile by gliding, catalase-positive and oxidase-negative, non-spore-forming rods. The isolate grew aerobically at 15–45 °C (optimum 28 °C), pH 5.5–7.5 (optimum pH 7.0) and with 0–3.0 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum 1.5 % NaCl). Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain SR18T belongs to the genus
Chitinophaga
with sequence similarity of 97.2 % and 97.0 % to

Chitinophaga japonensis

758T and

Chitinophaga rupis

CS5-B1T, respectively. Similarity to other species of the genus

Chitinophaga

was 92.8–95.5 %. The predominant menaquinone was MK-7. Major fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0 and C16 : 1ω5c. The polar lipids included phosphatidylethanolamine, unidentified phospholipids, unknown aminolipids and unknown lipids. The genomic DNA G+C content was 45.3 mol%. DNA–DNA relatedness between strain SR18T and

C. japonensis

NBRC 16041T was 29–32 %. On the basis of polyphasic analysis from this study, strain SR18T represents a novel species of the genus

Chitinophaga

, for which the name Chitinophaga ginsengihumi sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is SR18T ( = KACC 17604T = NBRC 109832T).
Novosphingobium
chloroacetimidivorans sp. nov., a chloroacetamide herbicide–degrading bacterium isolated from activated sludge
Authors: Chen Qing , Zhang Jun , Wang Cheng-Hong , Jiang Jin , Kwon Soon-Wo , Sun Li-Na , Shen Wen-Biao , He Jian
Published: May 2014

Strain BUT-14T, a Gram-reaction-negative, non-spore-forming, ellipse-shaped bacterium, was isolated from activated sludge of a chloroacetamide-herbicides-manufacturing wastewater treatment facility. The strain was able to degrade more than 90 % of butachlor, acetochlor and alachlor (100 mg l−1) within 5 days of incubation. The taxonomic position was investigated using a polyphasic approach. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain BUT-14T was a member of the genus

Novosphingobium

and showed the highest sequence similarities to

Novosphingobium soli

DSM 22821T (97.9 %),

N. naphthalenivorans

KACC 15258T (97.4 %),

N. pentaromativorans

JCM 12182T (97.4 %) and

N. barchaimii

DSM 25411T (97.1 %) and lower (<97 %) sequence similarities to all other species of the genus
Novosphingobium
. Chemotaxonomic analysis revealed that strain BUT-14T possessed Q-10 as the predominant ubiquinone, spermidine as the major polyamine and C18 : 1ω7c (46.9 %), C17 : 1ω6c (17.9 %), summed feature 3, C14 : 0 2-OH (4.4 %), C15 : 0 2-OH (3.1 %) and C16 : 0 (5.51 %) as the major fatty acids. The polar lipids included lipid, glycolipid, phosphatidylglycerol, phospholipid, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, sphingoglycolipid and phospatidyldimethylethanolamine. Strain BUT-14T showed low DNA–DNA relatedness with

N. soli

DSM 22821T (41.5±2.9 %),

N. naphthalenivorans

JCM 12182T (49.2±4.2 %),

N. pentaromativorans

KACC 12295T (53.2±1.9 %) and

N. barchaimii

DSM 25411 (51.2±4.5 %). The DNA G+C content was 66±0.3 mol%. The combination of phylogenetic analysis, phenotypic characteristics, chemotaxonomic data and DNA–DNA hybridization supports the suggestion that strain BUT-14T represents a novel species of the genus

Novosphingobium

, for which the name Novosphingobium chloroacetimidivorans sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is BUT-14T ( = CCTCC AB 2013086T = KACC 17147T = JCM 19923T).
Streptomyces
chumphonensis sp. nov., isolated from marine sediments
Authors: Phongsopitanun Wongsakorn , Thawai Chitti , Suwanborirux Khanit , Kudo Takuji , Ohkuma Moriya , Tanasupawat Somboon
Published: May 2014

Two actinomycete strains, KK1-2T and CPB4-7, were isolated from marine sediments collected in Chumphon province, Thailand. Chumphon province, Thailand. Their taxonomic positions were determined using a polyphasic approach. The morphological, cultural and chemotaxonomic characteristics of these isolates were consistent with the classification of the strains as representing a member of the genus

Streptomyces

. They contained ll-diaminopimelic acid in their cell wall peptidoglycan; the whole-cell sugars were ribose and glucose. The predominant menaquinones were MK9-(H6) and MK9-(H8). The major polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylinositol mannosides. The predominant cellular fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0, iso-C16 : 0 and iso-C15 : 0. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity studies, these isolates were determined to be closely related to

Streptomyces xinghaiensis

JCM 16958T (98.2 %),

Streptomyces rimosus subsp. paromomycinus

JCM 4541T (98.1 %),

Streptomyces sclerotialus

JCM 4828T (98.1 %) and

Streptomyces flocculus

JCM 4476T (98.0 %). The G+C contents of the genomic DNA of strains KK1-2T and CPB4-7 were 73.3 and 74.2 mol%, respectively. They could be clearly distinguished from the related type strains by a low DNA–DNA relatedness and phenotypic differences. On the basis of these results, these strains represent a novel species of the genus

Streptomyces

, for which the name Streptomyces chumphonensis sp. nov. (type strain KK1-2T = JCM 18522T = TISTR 2106T = PCU 330T) is proposed.
Rotavirus inhibits IFN-induced STAT nuclear translocation by a mechanism that acts after STAT binding to importin-α
Authors: Holloway Gavan , Dang Vi T. , Jans David A. , Coulson Barbara S.
Published: May 2014

The importance of innate immunity to rotaviruses is exemplified by the range of strategies evolved by rotaviruses to interfere with the IFN response. We showed previously that rotaviruses block gene expression induced by type I and II IFNs, through a mechanism allowing activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 1 and STAT2 but preventing their nuclear accumulation. This normally occurs through activated STAT1/2 dimerization, enabling an interaction with importin α5 that mediates transport into the nucleus. In rotavirus-infected cells, STAT1/2 inhibition may limit the antiviral actions of IFN produced early in infection. Here we further analysed the block to STAT1/2 nuclear accumulation, showing that activated STAT1 accumulates in the cytoplasm in rotavirus-infected cells. STAT1/2 nuclear accumulation was inhibited by rotavirus even in the presence of the nuclear export inhibitor Leptomycin B, demonstrating that enhanced nuclear export is not involved in STAT1/2 cytoplasmic retention. The ability to inhibit STAT nuclear translocation was completely conserved amongst the group A rotaviruses tested, including a divergent avian strain. Analysis of mutant rotaviruses indicated that residues after amino acid 47 of NSP1 are dispensable for STAT inhibition. Furthermore, expression of any of the 12 Rhesus monkey rotavirus proteins did not inhibit IFN-stimulated STAT1 nuclear translocation. Finally, co-immunoprecipitation experiments from transfected epithelial cells showed that STAT1/2 binds importin α5 normally following rotavirus infection. These findings demonstrate that rotavirus probably employs a novel strategy to inhibit IFN-induced STAT signalling, which acts after STAT activation and binding to the nuclear import machinery.
Differences in cellular function and viral protein expression between IgMhigh and IgMlow B-cells in bovine leukemia virus-infected cattle
Authors: Ikebuchi Ryoyo , Konnai Satoru , Okagawa Tomohiro , Nishimori Asami , Nakahara Ayako , Murata Shiro , Ohashi Kazuhiko
Published: May 2014

Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) induces abnormal B-cell proliferation and B-cell lymphoma in cattle, where the BLV provirus is integrated into the host genome. BLV-infected B-cells rarely express viral proteins in vivo, but short-term cultivation augments BLV expression in some, but not all, BLV-infected B-cells. This observation suggests that two subsets, i.e. BLV-silencing cells and BLV-expressing cells, are present among BLV-infected B-cells, although the mechanisms of viral expression have not been determined. In this study, we examined B-cell markers and viral antigen expression in B-cells from BLV-infected cattle to identify markers that may discriminate BLV-expressing cells from BLV-silencing cells. The proportions of IgMhigh B-cells were increased in blood lymphocytes from BLV-infected cattle. IgMhigh B-cells mainly expressed BLV antigens, whereas IgMlow B-cells did not, although the provirus load was equivalent in both subsets. Several parameters were investigated in these two subsets to characterize their cellular behaviour. Real-time PCR and microarray analyses detected higher expression levels of some proto-oncogenes (e.g. Maf, Jun and Fos) in IgMlow B-cells than those in IgMhigh B-cells. Moreover, lymphoma cells obtained from the lymph nodes of 14 BLV-infected cattle contained IgMlow or IgM− B-cells but no IgMhigh B-cells. To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that IgMhigh B-cells mainly comprise BLV-expressing cells, whereas IgMlow B-cells comprise a high proportion of BLV-silencing B-cells in BLV-infected cattle.
Viraemic frequencies and seroprevalence of non-primate hepacivirus and equine pegiviruses in horses and other mammalian species
Authors: Lyons Sinéad , Kapoor Amit , Schneider Bradley S. , Wolfe Nathan D. , Culshaw Geoff , Corcoran Brendan , Durham Andy E. , Burden Faith , McGorum Bruce C. , Simmonds Peter
Published: May 2014

Non-primate hepacivirus (NPHV), equine pegivirus (EPgV) and Theiler’s disease associated virus (TDAV) are newly discovered members of two genera in the Flaviviridae family, Hepacivirus and Pegivirus respectively, that include human hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human pegivirus (HPgV). To investigate their epidemiology, persistence and clinical features of infection, large cohorts of horses and other mammalian species were screened for NPHV, EPgV and TDAV viraemia and for past exposure through serological assays for NPHV and EPgV-specific antibodies. NPHV antibodies were detected in 43 % of 328 horses screened for antibodies to NS3 and core antibodies, of which three were viraemic by PCR. All five horses that were stablemates of a viraemic horse were seropositive, as was a dog on the same farm. With this single exception, all other species were negative for NPHV antibodies and viraemia: donkeys (n = 100), dogs (n = 112), cats (n = 131), non-human primates (n = 164) and humans (n = 362). EPgV antibodies to NS3 were detected in 66.5 % of horses, including 10 of the 12 horses that had EPgV viraemia. All donkey samples were negative for EPgV antibody and RNA. All horse and donkey samples were negative for TDAV RNA. By comparing viraemia frequencies in horses with and without liver disease, no evidence was obtained that supported an association between active NPHV and EPgV infections with hepatopathy. The study demonstrates that NPHV and EPgV infections are widespread and enzootic in the study horse population and confirms that NPHV and potentially EPgV have higher frequencies of viral clearance than HCV and HPgV infections in humans.
Pseudotyping of vesicular stomatitis virus with the envelope glycoproteins of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses
Authors: Zimmer Gert , Locher Samira , Berger Rentsch Marianne , Halbherr Stefan J.
Published: May 2014

Pseudotype viruses are useful for studying the envelope proteins of harmful viruses. This work describes the pseudotyping of vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) with the envelope glycoproteins of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses. VSV lacking the homotypic glycoprotein (G) gene (VSVΔG) was used to express haemagglutinin (HA), neuraminidase (NA) or the combination of both. Propagation-competent pseudotype viruses were only obtained when HA and NA were expressed from the same vector genome. Pseudotype viruses containing HA from different H5 clades were neutralized specifically by immune sera directed against the corresponding clade. Fast and sensitive reading of test results was achieved by vector-mediated expression of GFP. Pseudotype viruses expressing a mutant VSV matrix protein showed restricted spread in IFN-competent cells. This pseudotype system will facilitate the detection of neutralizing antibodies against virulent influenza viruses, circumventing the need for high-level biosafety containment.
Background selection as baseline for nucleotide variation across theDrosophilagenome
Authors: Comeron Josep M
Published: May 2014

The constant removal of deleterious mutations by natural selection causes a reduction in neutral diversity and efficacy of selection at genetically linked sites (a process called Background Selection, BGS). Population genetic studies, however, often ignore BGS effects when investigating demographic events or the presence of other types of selection. To obtain a more realistic evolutionary expectation that incorporates the unavoidable consequences of deleterious mutations, we generated high-resolution landscapes of variation across theDrosophila melanogastergenome under a BGS scenario independent of polymorphism data. We find that BGS plays a significant role in shaping levels of variation across the entire genome, including long introns and intergenic regions distant from annotated genes. We also find that a very large percentage of the observed variation in diversity across autosomes can be explained by BGS alone, up to 70% across individual chromosome arms, thus indicating that BGS predictions can be used as baseline to infer additional types of selection and demographic events. This approach allows detecting several outlier regions with signal of recent adaptive events and selective sweeps. The use of a BGS baseline, however, is particularly appropriate to investigate the presence of balancing selection and our study exposes numerous genomic regions with the predicted signature of higher polymorphism than expected when a BGS context is taken into account. Importantly, we show that these conclusions are robust to the mutation and selection parameters of the BGS model. Finally, analyses of protein evolution together with previous comparisons of genetic maps betweenDrosophilaspecies, suggest temporally variable recombination landscapes and thus, local BGS effects that may differ between extant and past phases. Because genome-wide BGS and temporal changes in linkage effects can skew approaches to estimate demographic and selective events, future analyses should incorporate BGS predictions and capture local recombination variation across genomes and along lineages.
Follicular microhemorrhage: A unique dermoscopic sign for the detection of coexisting trichotillomania in alopecia areata
Authors: Ise Misaki , Amagai Masayuki , Ohyama Manabu
Published: May 2014

The diagnosis of trichotillomania (TT) is often difficult as it presents similar clinical manifestations with other hair loss diseases, especially alopecia areata (AA). As TT often coexists with AA, the methodology enabling reliable detection of TT in AA needs to be developed. Recently, characteristic dermoscopic findings of TT have been reported, yet, they were most clearly detectable by conventional immersion dermoscopy, not by dry dermoscopy, a technique more easily adoptable in daily practice. In addition, the usefulness of those signs for differentiating TT from AA has not been sufficiently assessed. Through intensive scanning of hair loss lesions by dry dermoscopy in AA patients with TT, we found a sign potentially useful for detecting hidden TT. The sign we named “follicular microhemorrhage” (FMH) represents a red dot corresponding to a follicular ostia capped or stuffed with blood clot and suggests a history of traumatic forced plucking. So far, we have detected FMH in four TT patients with moderate to severe AA. Although further accumulation of cases is necessary, FMH would be beneficial to dissect complicated pathophysiology of hair loss in AA patients with TT.
Blepharochalasis: Possibly associated with matrix metalloproteinases
Authors: Motegi Sei‐ichiro , Uchiyama Akihiko , Yamada Kazuya , Ogino Sachiko , Takeuchi Yuko , Ishikawa Osamu
Published: May 2014

Blepharochalasis is a rare disorder characterized by recurrent episodic swelling of eyelids, eventually leading to atrophy of skin. Although immunological mechanisms may be involved in the degradation of elastic fibers, the pathogenesis is not well characterized. We report a 10‐year‐old Japanese boy with an 11‐month history of the swelling of bilateral upper eyelids with atrophic skin. Attacks of non‐painful swelling in eyelids with erythema have recurred several times a month and lasted for 2–3 days. Histological examination revealed perivascular and interstitial infiltration of lymphocytes in the dermis. Elastica Van Gieson staining showed a marked decrease of elastic fibers throughout the dermis. Results of direct and indirect immunofluorescence analyses were negative. Staining of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐3 and MMP‐9 was observed in and around infiltrating cells in the dermis, suggesting that MMP‐3 and MMP‐9 may play, in part, roles in the development of blepharochalasis, and that inhibitor of MMP may have a possibility of therapeutic application.
The variability of stomatal sensitivity to leaf water potential across tree species indicates a continuum between isohydric and anisohydric behaviours
Authors: Klein Tamir
Published: May 2014

The relationship between stomatal conductance (gs) and leaf water potential (Ψl) is key to the understanding of plant function under changing climate. The variability among tree species gave rise to selection towards either of two contrasting water management types: isohydric or anisohydric. This study explores the variability of gs to Ψl across tree species.

Curves of gs(Ψl) were collected from the scientific literature for 70 woody plant species. The data set is comprised of angiosperm and gymnosperm species from all major forest biomes. The hypothesis that curves from different tree species diverge between isohydric and anisohydric behaviours was tested.

Species‐specific curves formed a continuum, rather than dichotomy between isohydric and anisohydric, as confirmed by distribution models. Alternatively, the water potential at 50% of the maximum gs (Ψgs50) was used to quantitatively compare between species. A major difference emerged among xylem anatomy classes whereby ring‐porous species had higher absolute gs at Ψl < −2 MPa than diffuse‐porous and coniferous species. A positive, linear correlation was shown between Ψgs50 and Ψl at 50% loss of xylem conductivity.

The results suggest that stomatal sensitivity to leaf water potential strongly relates to xylem characteristics. The use of Ψgs50 offers a quantitative alternative to the current, yet biased, distinction between isohydric and anisohydric species.
A novel index of leaf RGR predicts tree shade tolerance
Authors: Miyashita Ayana , Tateno Masaki
Published: May 2014

Plant traits responsible for shade tolerance are controversial. An important feature of shade‐tolerant trees is the ability to maintain a positive whole‐plant carbon balance [i.e. positive relative growth rate (RGRplant)] in low‐light environments, but a positive RGRplant does not always ensure continuous growth. To grow successfully in shaded environments, a plant must increase its leaf biomass with time. However, because RGRplant is determined by whole‐plant biomass change, RGRplant can be positive without any increment of leaf mass. Therefore, we developed a new index focussing on the leaf carbon balance to evaluate growth potential in shaded understoreys. We applied this to cool–temperate forest trees, such as Abies firma (evergreen conifer), Fagus crenata and F. japonica (deciduous broad‐leaved trees), and compared their shade tolerance.

We termed the new index ‘RGRleaf’ expressed using net assimilation rate (NARleaf), leaf lifespan (LL), leaf mass per area (LMA) and leaf partitioning rate (LP), as [(NARleaf × LP)/LMA – (1/LL)]. RGRleaf >0 shows a positive leaf carbon balance, leading to continuous growth. RGRleaf allows a quantitative analysis of traits affecting the leaf carbon balance.

We planted seedlings of each species in different light environments (open site, deciduous canopy site and evergreen canopy site) and measured their traits. RGRleaf and RGRplant were strongly correlated, but RGRplant was positive even when RGRleaf was negative (i.e. no potential of continuous growth). The negative RGRleaf values appeared correspond to low survival rates.

We found that in the deciduous canopy site, A. firma showed higher RGRleaf, RGRplant and survival rates compared with F. japonica and F. crenata. Analyses of RGRleaf and its traits explained that A. firma's relatively high NARleaf and long LL are effective in maintaining a positive leaf carbon balance. Especially in deep shade (i.e. very low NARleaf), a prolonged LL is essential for maintaining a positive leaf carbon balance. These results suggest that in cool–temperate forests, evergreen plants can be more shade‐tolerant than deciduous ones.
Site fidelity curbs sequential search and territory choice: a game theoretical approach
Authors: Schmidt Kenneth A.
Published: May 2014

Territory choice is likely to include sequential sampling at prospective sites, a decision rule for accepting a site, and, when available, use of prior experience. Here, I consider the threshold rule (Real 1990American Naturalist, 138, 901–917) in which individuals choose the first option that exceeds a preset level of quality and ask how competition for sites limits the choosiness of individuals applying the threshold rule. I then investigate how the addition of site fidelity further influences the evolution of individual choosiness via a threshold rule.

I develop an individual‐based model that uses a genetic algorithm approach to search for the optimal threshold as an evolutionary stable strategy (ESS) and equilibrium population size. Territory quality (i.e. likelihood of reproductive success) is spatially heterogeneous. Individuals either use the acceptance threshold alone or together with site fidelity. In the latter strategy, successful breeders that survive remain at their former site as incumbents, whereas unsuccessful breeders move to a new site.

Results indicate greater competition for sites increases the acceptance threshold and reduces choosiness even when individuals have perfect information from sampled sites. Incumbency, via site fidelity at successful territories, leads to the evolution of relatively unselective behaviour, the degree to which is influenced by the level of adult survival.

Competition for sites and site pre‐emption, rather than energetic or mortality costs, may drive the evolution of choosiness. The analysis also highlights the importance of considering coexisting strategies usedby individualsand not simply the population. For instance, site fidelity, as a coexisting strategy, can result in anESSacceptance threshold that is no better than random selection, and yet still safeguard populations from extinction.
The Effect of Superannuation Tax Incentives on Salary Sacrifice Participation
Authors: Feng Jun
Published: May 2014

In this study, we examine choices in voluntary superannuation contributions by Australian income earners. In particular, we focus on salary sacrifice contributions, which could attract a tax benefit of up to 30 percentage points. This study aims to evaluate how effective tax incentives are in stimulating salary sacrifice participation. Using a regression discontinuity framework, we measure the response of individuals to different levels of tax concessions on salary sacrifice contributions. Results indicate that current tax incentives have a limited effect, if any, on the decision to make salary sacrifice arrangements. This result is consistent with more recent empirical research from the Northern Hemisphere. It is likely that the lack of response is due to the complexity of the incentive schemes in Australia and competing vehicles for long‐term savings.
Bayesian hierarchical models for spatially misaligned data in R
Authors: Finley Andrew O. , Banerjee Sudipto , Cook Bruce D.
Published: May 2014

Spatial misalignment occurs when at least one of multiple outcome variables is missing at an observed location. For spatial data, prediction of these missing observations should be informed by within location association among outcomes and by proximate locations where measurements were recorded.

This study details and illustrates a Bayesian regression framework for modelling spatially misaligned multivariate data. Particular attention is paid to developing valid probability models capable of estimating parameter posterior distributions and propagating uncertainty through to outcomes' predictive distributions at locations where some or all of the outcomes are not observed.

Models and associated software are presented for both Gaussian and non‐Gaussian outcomes. Model parameter and predictive inference within the proposed framework is illustrated using a synthetic and forest inventory data set.

The proposed Markov chain Monte carlo samplers were written in c++ and leverage R's Foreign Language Interface to call fortran blas (Basic Linear Algebra Subprograms) and lapack (Linear Algebra Package) libraries for efficient matrix computations. The models are implemented in the spMisalignLM and spMisalignGLM functions within the spBayes r package available via the Comprehensive R Archive Network (cran) (http://cran.r-project.org).
Geographic and temporal variations in pollen exposure across Europe
Authors: Smith M. , Jäger S. , Berger U. , Šikoparija B. , Hallsdottir M. , Sauliene I. , Bergmann K‐C. , Pashley C. H. , de Weger L. , Majkowska‐Wojciechowska B. , Rybníček O. , Thibaudon M. , Gehrig R. , Bonini M. , Yankova R. , Damialis A. , Vokou D. , Gutiérrez Bustillo A. M. , Hoffmann‐Sommergruber K. , van Ree R.
Published: May 2014

Background

The EC‐funded EuroPrevall project examined the prevalence of food allergy across Europe. A well‐established factor in the occurrence of food allergy is primary sensitization to pollen.

Objective

To analyse geographic and temporal variations in pollen exposure, allowing the investigation of how these variations influence the prevalence and incidence of food allergies across Europe.

Methods

Airborne pollen data for two decades (1990–2009) were obtained from 13 monitoring sites located as close as possible to the EuroPrevall survey centres. Start dates, intensity and duration of Betulaceae, Oleaceae, Poaceae and Asteraceae pollen seasons were examined. Mean, slope of the regression, probability level (P) and dominant taxa (%) were calculated. Trends were considered significant at P < 0.05.

Results

On a European scale, Betulaceae, in particular Betula, is the most dominant pollen exposure, two folds higher than to Poaceae, and greater than five folds higher than to Oleaceae and Asteraceae. Only in Reykjavik, Madrid and Derby was Poaceae the dominant pollen, as was Oleaceae in Thessaloniki. Weed pollen (Asteraceae) was never dominant, exposure accounted for >10% of total pollen exposure only in Siauliai (Artemisia) and Legnano (Ambrosia). Consistent trends towards changing intensity or duration of exposure were not observed, possibly with the exception of (not significant) decreased exposure to Artemisia and increased exposure to Ambrosia.

Conclusions

This is the first comprehensive study quantifying exposure to the major allergenic pollen families Betulaceae, Oleaceae, Poaceae and Asteraceae across Europe. These data can now be used for studies into patterns of sensitization and allergy to pollen and foods.
Fatal anaphylaxis with neuromuscular blocking agents: a risk factor and management analysis
Authors: Reitter M. , Petitpain N. , Latarche C. , Cottin J. , Massy N. , Demoly P. , Gillet P. , Mertes P. M. ,   the French Network of Regional Pharmacovigilance Centres
Published: May 2014

Background

Anaphylactic reactions to neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) can be severe and even fatal. Our aim was to evaluate mortality rate in France from anaphylactic reactions to NMBAs, to identify risk factors for a fatal outcome, and to describe management of the cases that proved fatal.

Methods

The French National Pharmacovigilance Database was queried for reports of NMBA anaphylaxis that occurred between January 2000 and December 2011. A questionnaire was sent to regional pharmacovigilance centers to obtain further information on the management of cases with a fatal outcome.

Results

Two thousand and twenty‐two cases of NMBA hypersensitivity were retrieved, of which 84 were fatal (4.1%). Among the 1247 cases of severe NMBA anaphylaxis (grades 3 and 4), independent risk factors associated with a fatal outcome in a multivariate analysis were male gender (female gender: OR = 0.4; 95% CI 0.2–0.7; P = 0.0004), an emergency setting (OR = 2.6; 95% CI 1.5–4.6; P = 0.0007), a history of hypertension (OR = 2.5; 95% CI 1.5–4.4; P = 0.0010) or of other cardiovascular disease (OR = 4.4; 95% CI 2.4–8.1; P < 0.0001), obesity (OR = 2.4; 95% CI 1.1–5.3; P = 0.0376), and ongoing beta‐blocker treatment (OR = 4.2; 95% CI 1.8–9.8; P = 0.0011). All 31 patients with a fatal outcome received epinephrine in a titrated manner according to international guidelines.

Conclusion

Obese males with a history of cardiovascular disease receiving ongoing beta‐blocker treatment and undergoing surgery in an emergency setting were at high risk of a fatal outcome after NMBA‐induced anaphylaxis. Some epinephrine‐resistant cases may play a role in our high mortality rate. New therapeutic approaches need to be developed to treat these cases.
Laparoscopic resection of synchronous colorectal cancers in separate specimens
Authors: Inada Ryo , Yamamoto Seiichiro , Takawa Masashi , Fujita Shin , Akasu Takayuki
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Laparoscopic approaches are increasingly being used in patients with colorectal cancer, but the feasibility of laparoscopic resection of synchronous colorectal cancers in separate specimens remains unknown. In such cases, it is necessary to consider the site of port placement, sequence of dissection, choice of specimen extraction sites, specimen handling, and extracorporeal anastomosis sites. Moreover, the need for complete mesenteric dissection in two areas, removal of two separate specimens containing malignancies, and two anastomoses elicit unique questions related to technical considerations. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of laparoscopic resection of two separate specimens containing malignancies for multiple synchronous colorectal cancers.

Methods

Between June 2001 and January 2013, 1341 patients with colorectal cancer underwent laparoscopic surgery at our institution. Of them, 11 patients underwent laparoscopy‐assisted combined resection of two separate colorectal specimens for multiple synchronous primary colorectal cancers. We retrospectively reviewed their surgical outcomes.

Results

All procedures were completed laparoscopically without perioperative mortality. Patients underwent right‐sided colon resection for right‐sided cancer and left‐sided or rectal resection for left‐sided colon or rectal cancer. The median duration of surgery was 296 min, and the median blood loss was 65 mL. Median time to first postoperative liquid and solid intake was 1 day and 3 days, respectively. Most patients were discharged on postoperative day 8. With regard to postoperative complications, two patients had a surgical‐site infection.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic resection of two separate colorectal specimens for multiple synchronous primary colorectal cancers is a feasible and safe procedure.
To the letter: Early readers trust print‐based over oral instructions to guide their actions
Authors: Corriveau Kathleen H. , Einav Shiri , Robinson Elizabeth J. , Harris Paul L.
Published: May 2014

Children have many opportunities to learn from others through oral and written sources. Recent evidence suggests that early readers place more trust in written over oral testimony when learning names for unfamiliar objects. Across three studies, we examined whether the authority of print extends beyond mere naming to guide children's actions in the physical world. In Study 1, 3‐ to 6‐year‐olds received conflicting oral and print‐based advice from two puppets about how to operate a novel apparatus. Whereas pre‐readers were indiscriminate in their trust, early readers preferred to follow the print‐based advice. In Study 2, we replicated this finding, controlling for the amount of corroborating evidence presented by both sources, and the location of the print. In Study 3, we explored whether readers' preference for print‐based information was due to a global preference for external representations, or a more specific preference for text. Children were presented with conflicting instructions based on text versus a coloured circle. Whereas pre‐readers preferred to follow the colour circle, readers preferred to follow the text. Together, the results suggest that when children learn to read, they rapidly come to regard the written word as a particularly authoritative source of information about how to act in the world.
How Team Identification and Expertise Identification Affect R&D Employees' Creativity
Authors: Tang ChaoYing , Shang Jimei , Naumann Stefanie E. , von Zedtwitz Max
Published: May 2014

The relationship between team identification and expertise identification in the R&D context and the mechanism by which these variables influence R&D creativity is not yet clear. We present and empirically test a theoretical framework proposing that knowledge sharing mediates the relationship between identification and creativity in R&D teams. Based on 120 paired‐sample survey data of 30 R&D teams, we show that knowledge sharing mediates the relationship between team identification (but not expertise identification) and R&D team members' creativity. Contributions to the literature and the practice of innovation and R&D management, knowledge and creativity management, and team management are discussed.
Infliximab therapy increases the frequency of circulating CD16+ monocytes and modifies macrophage cytokine response to bacterial infection
Authors: Nazareth N , Magro F , Silva J , Duro M , Gracio D , Coelho R , Appelberg R , Macedo G , Sarmento A
Published: May 2014

Crohn's disease (CD) has been correlated with altered macrophage response to microorganisms. Considering the efficacy of infliximab treatment on CD remission, we investigated infliximab effects on circulating monocyte subsets and on macrophage cytokine response to bacteria. Human peripheral blood monocyte-derived macrophages were obtained from CD patients, treated or not with infliximab. Macrophages were infected with Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) or M. avium subsp avium, and cytokine levels [tumour necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin (IL)-10] were evaluated at different time-points. To evaluate infliximab-dependent effects on monocyte subsets, we studied CD14 and CD16 expression by peripheral blood monocytes before and after different infliximab administrations. We also investigated TNF secretion by macrophages obtained from CD16+ and CD16− monocytes and the frequency of TNF+ cells among CD16+ and CD16− monocyte-derived macrophages from CD patients. Infliximab treatment resulted in elevated TNF and IL-10 macrophage response to bacteria. An infliximab-dependent increase in the frequency of circulating CD16+ monocytes (particularly the CD14++CD16+ subset) was also observed (before infliximab: 4·65 ± 0·58%; after three administrations: 10·68 ± 2·23%). In response to MAP infection, macrophages obtained from CD16+ monocytes were higher TNF producers and CD16+ macrophages from infliximab-treated CD patients showed increased frequency of TNF+ cells. In conclusion, infliximab treatment increased the TNF production of CD macrophages in response to bacteria, which seemed to depend upon enrichment of CD16+ circulating monocytes, particularly of the CD14++CD16+ subset. Infliximab treatment of CD patients also resulted in increased macrophage IL-10 production in response to bacteria, suggesting an infliximab-induced shift to M2 macrophages.
Increased concentration of T‐cell receptor rearrangement excision circles (TREC) in peripheral blood in Graves' disease
Authors: Strawa Katarzyna , Markowska Anna , Miśkiewicz Piotr , Kuś Aleksander , Ambroziak Urszula , Szymański Konrad , Zbiec Renata , Spólnicka Magdalena , Krajewski Paweł , Bednarczuk Tomasz , Płoski Rafał
Published: May 2014

Background

T‐cell receptor rearrangement excision circles (TREC) are circular DNA molecules generated during T‐cell maturation in the thymus. Recent studies suggested that a decreased TREC concentration in peripheral blood may be a general feature of autoimmunity. Our purpose was to assess the TREC concentration in Graves' disease (GD).

Methods

TREC concentration was assessed by real time PCR in DNA samples isolated from peripheral blood leucocytes among younger (n = 94, age range 6–29 years) and older patients with GD (n = 93, age range 57–80 years) and age‐matched controls (n = 206).

Results

TREC concentration decreased with age in all subjects, but it was significantly higher in GD compared with controls (P = 9·4 × 10−10). TREC concentration was higher (P = 0·0038) in hyperthyroid (n = 78) than euthyroid (n = 82) patients with GD, but in both groups, it remained increased relative to controls (P = 2·2 × 10−11 and P = 4·4 ×10−7, respectively).

Conclusions

Patients with GD, particularly those with hyperthyroidism, have increased concentration of TREC which may suggest increased rather than decreased thymic activity. Thus, GD does not follow the paradigm suggested for other autoimmune disorders which links autoimmunity with thymic senescence.
Effects of up to 15 years of recombinant human GH (rhGH) replacement on bone metabolism in adults with Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD): The Leiden Cohort Study
Authors: Appelman‐Dijkstra Natasha M. , Claessen Kim M. J. A. , Hamdy Neveen A. T. , Pereira Alberto M. , Biermasz Nienke R.
Published: May 2014

Background

Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) in adulthood may be associated with a decreased bone mineral density (BMD), a decreased bone mineral content (BMC) and an increased fracture risk. Recombinant human GH (rhGH) replacement induces a progressive increase in BMD for up to 5–7 years of treatment. Data on longer follow‐up are, however, scarce.

Methods

Two hundred and thirty‐adult GHD patients (mean age 47·1 years, 52·6% female), of whom 88% patients had adult‐onset (AO) GHD, receiving rhGH replacement for ≥5 years were included in the study. Most patients had multiple pituitary hormone deficiencies. Bone turnover markers, BMC and BMD and T‐scores at the lumbar spine and femoral neck were evaluated at baseline, and after 5, 10 and 15 years of rhGH replacement. In addition, clinical fracture incidence was assessed.

Results

Mean lumbar spine BMD, lumbar spine BMC and T‐scores gradually increased during the first 10 years of rhGH replacement and remained stable thereafter. Largest effects of rhGH supplementation were found in men. In the small subset of patients using bisphosphonates, use of bisphosphonates did not impact additional beneficial effects in the long term. Low baseline BMD positively affected the change in BMD and BMC over time, but there was a negative effect of high GH dose at 1 year on the change in BMD and BMC over time. Clinical fracture incidence during long‐term rhGH replacement was 20.1/1000 py.

Conclusions

Fifteen years of rhGH replacement in GHD adults resulted in a sustained increase in BMD values at the lumbar spine, particularly in men, and stabilization of BMD values at the femoral neck. Clinical fracture incidence was suggested not to be increased during long‐term rhGH replacement.
Neuropsychological function in children with primary complex motor stereotypies
Authors: Mahone E Mark , Ryan Matthew , Ferenc Lisa , Morris‐Berry Christina , Singer Harvey S
Published: May 2014

Aim

Complex motor stereotypies (CMS) are patterned, repetitive, rhythmic, and involuntary movements that persist over time. They are divided into two subgroups dependent on the presence of other developmental problems: ‘primary’ (development is otherwise typical) or ‘secondary’ (associated with autism, intellectual disability, or sensory deficits). There are no currently published studies that examine neuropsychological function in children with primary CMS. This case–control study examines whether children with primary CMS manifest neurobehavioral deficits.

Method

Fifty‐seven children with primary CMS (32 males, 25 females; mean age 6y 8mo, SD 2y 4mo, range 4–12y) with negative screens for autism and 57 comparison participants (32 males, 25 females; mean age 6y 6mo, SD 2y 1mo) completed neuropsychological assessments of IQ, reading ability, attention, language, and motor and executive functions. Parents completed ratings of their child's repetitive movement severity.

Results

The CMS group performed significantly less well than comparison participants on motor skills and IQ tests (both p<0.01), although IQ was consistently in the average range. One‐third of the CMS group showed signs of developmental motor coordination difficulties. Parent report of stereotypy severity was significantly associated with parent report of inattention and executive dysfunction.

Interpretation

Children with primary CMS were found to have largely intact neuropsychological profiles. Stereotypy severity appears to be associated with executive dysfunction. Although motor difficulties were observed in children with CMS, these were not correlated with parent report of symptom severity.
Treatment of arginase deficiency revisited: guanidinoacetate as a therapeutic target and biomarker for therapeutic monitoring
Authors: Amayreh Wajdi , Meyer Uta , Das Anibh M
Published: May 2014

Hyperargininaemia is a disorder of the last step of the urea cycle. It is an autosomal recessive disease caused by deficiency of liver arginase‐1 and usually presents later in childhood with progressive neurological symptoms including marked spasticity. In contrast with other urea cycle disorders, hyperammonaemia is not usually present but can be a feature. A number of guanidine compounds may accumulate in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid of these patients, which could play an important pathophysiological role. Guanidinoacetate is of particular interest as a well‐known potent epileptogenic compound in guanidinoacetate methyltransferase deficiency. We found markedly elevated guanidinoacetate levels in a patient with arginase deficiency, which dropped significantly in response to dietary and medical treatment. Measurement of guanidinoacetate and other guanidino compounds may, therefore, be important for therapeutic monitoring in arginase deficiency.
Horizontal head titubation in infants with Joubert syndrome: a new finding
Authors: Poretti Andrea , Christen Hans‐Jürgen , Elton Lindsay E , Baumgartner Manuela , Korenke Georg Christoph , Sukhudyan Biayna , Hethey Sven , Cross Elizabeth , Steinlin Maja , Boltshauser Eugen
Published: May 2014

Aim

Head thrusts are well documented in Joubert syndrome and ocular motor apraxia. We provide a detailed clinical characterization of head titubation in 13 young children with Joubert syndrome.

Method

Detailed characterization of head titubation was assessed by targeted clinical evaluation and/or analysis of videos.

Results

In 12 of 13 children (eight males, five females; median age 6y, range 2mo–15y) head titubation was first recognized in the first 2 months of age and decreased in severity until spontaneous resolution. In all children, the head titubation was horizontal, high frequency (~3Hz), had small amplitude (5–10°), was never present during sleep, and did not interfere with the neurodevelopment during infancy. In the majority of children, emotion, anxiety, and tiredness were worsening factors for head titubation.

Interpretation

Head titubation is a benign, early presentation of Joubert syndrome. Head titubation in hypotonic infants should prompt a careful search for Joubert syndrome. Awareness of its occurrence in Joubert syndrome may avoid unnecessary investigations.
Extensive motor axonal misrouting after conservative treatment of obstetric brachial plexus lesions
Authors: Anguelova Galia V , Malessy Martijn J A , van Zwet Erik W , van Dijk J Gert
Published: May 2014

Aim

The aim of this cross‐sectional study was to assess systematically motor function and motor misrouting in adults with conservatively treated obstetric brachial plexus lesion (OBPL).

Method

Seventeen adults with OBPL (median age 38y; five males, 12 females) and 16 comparison participants (median age 26y; eight males, eight females) were investigated. Motor function in the group with OBPL was assessed through passive and active motion, muscle strength of the deltoid, biceps, and triceps muscles, and Mallet aggregate score and five subscores. Motor misrouting was quantified by electrically stimulating each of 10 arm muscles and recording activity from the other nine in response to this. Motor function and motor misrouting were statistically analysed using the Mann–Whitney U test and Spearman's correlation coefficient.

Results

Motor function testing showed excellent strength but poor functional Mallet scores. Participants with OBPL had significantly more motor misrouting than comparison participants (Mann–Whitney U=31.5 [df=28], p<0.001, median difference=−4.00, 95% confidence interval [CI]=−7.00 to −1.00). Most misrouting was observed when stimulating the biceps (Mann–Whitney U=38.5 [df=31], p<0.001, median difference=−3.00, 95% CI −3.00 to −1.00), deltoid (Mann–Whitney U=68.5 [df=31], p=0.003, median difference=−1.0, 95% CI=−4.00 to 0.00 <0.001) and brachioradialis muscles (Mann–Whitney U=72.0 [df=31], p=0.002, median difference <0.001, 95% CI=−3.00 to 0.00 <0.001). There were no significant correlations between the presence of motor misrouting and impairment of motor function.

Interpretation

There is extensive motor misrouting in conservatively treated OBPL. The presence of this, in addition to motor functional impairment, suggests that motor misrouting should be further studied in OBPL.
Speckle Strain Echocardiography Predicts Outcome in Patients with Heart Failure with both Depressed and Preserved Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction
Authors: Stampehl Mark R. , Mann Douglas L. , Nguyen John S. , Cota Francisco , Colmenares Cristina , Dokainish Hisham
Published: May 2014

Background

While speckle imaging has been shown to predict outcome in patients with heart failure (HF), it remains unclear whether speckle strain predicts outcome in patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF).

Methods

Four hundred twenty patients with HF by Framingham criteria and either: left ventricular (LV) EF <50%, or elevated LV filling pressure by comprehensive echo Doppler study in the setting of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥50%, were enrolled. Speckle tracking was used to measure strain and strain rate in multiple vectors. The primary endpoint was HF hospitalization or cardiovascular death.

Results

Follow‐up was completed in 380/420 patients (90%). The mean age was 55.7 ± 0.8 years, 191/380 (50%) were male, 319/380 (84%) were hypertensive, 183/380 (48%) were diabetic, and 152/380 (40%) had known coronary artery disease. At a mean follow‐up of 369 ± 30 days, 107/380 patients (28%) reached the primary endpoint: 97 HF rehospitalizations and 10 cardiac deaths. The best univariate predictors of outcome were global longitudinal peak strain (GLPS) (χ2 = 25.6, P < 0.001), mitral DT (χ2 = 16.8, P < 0.001), LVEF (χ2 = 16.7, P < 0.0001), longitudinal early diastolic strain (χ2 = 8.7, P = 0.003), and circumferential peak strain (χ2 = 7.9, P = 0.005). On multivariate analysis, GLPS (P < 0.0001), LVEF (P = 0.0002), and mitral DT (P = 0.005) were independent predictors of outcome. In the 100 HF patients with preserved LVEF, there were 17 events. Patients with GPLS ≤−15 had significantly better event‐free survival than patients with GPLS >−15 (χ2 = 4.1, P = 0.04), whereas LVEF did not predict event‐free survival.

Conclusion

Speckle strain echocardiography is an important predictor of outcome in HF patients with both depressed and preserved LVEF.