bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dried plasma/blood spots for monitoring antiretroviral treatment efficacy and pharmacokinetics: a cross‐sectional study in rural Burundi
Authors: Calcagno Andrea , Motta Ilaria , Milia Maria Grazia , Rostagno Roberto , Simiele Marco , Libanore Valentina , Fontana Silvia , D'Avolio Antonio , Ghisetti Valeria , Di Perri Giovanni , Bonora Stefano
Published: November 2014

Aims

In limited resource settings monitoring antiretroviral (ARV) treatment efficacy is restrained by the lack of access to technological equipment. The aim of the study was to assess the use of dried plasma (DPS) and blood spots (DBS) to facilitate ARV monitoring in remote settings where clinical monitoring is the primary strategy.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study in HIV‐positive ARV‐treated patients in Kiremba, Burundi was performed. DBS were used for HIV‐1 viral load (limit of the assay 250 copies ml−1) and genotypic drug resistance tests and dried plasma spots were used for concentration measurements.

Results

Three hundred and seven patients [201 female (88.6%), 14 children (4.5%)] were enrolled. HIV‐1 viral load was <250, 250–1000 and >1000 copies ml−1 in 250 (81.7%), 33 (10.8%) and 23 patients (7.5%). Eleven samples out of 23 were successfully amplified revealing nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) and non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)‐resistance associated mutations [in seven (58.3%) and six patients (50%)]. Nevirapine trough concentrations were <3000 ng ml−1 in 28/189 patients (14.8%) and efavirenz 12 h concentrations were <1000 ng ml−1 in 2/16 patients (12.5%). Children and patients with nevirapine exposure <3000 ng ml−1 presented a higher risk of viral replication.

Conclusions

Viral loads <250 copies ml−1 were observed in 81.7% of patients (83.6% adults and 42.9% children). Children and patients with low nevirapine concentrations had higher risk of viral replication. Dried blood and plasma spots may be useful for monitoring HIV‐positive patients including viral load and drug level measurement as part of treatment management in remote areas.
Localization of α‐adrenoceptors: JR Vane Medal Lecture
Authors: McGrath John C
Published: November 2014

This review is based on the JR Vane Medal Lecture presented at the BPS Winter Meeting in December 2011 by J.C. McGrath. A recording of the lecture is included as supporting information. It covers his laboratory's work from 1990 to 2010 on the localization of vascular α1‐adrenoceptors in native tissues, mainly arteries. Main points: (i) α1‐adrenoceptors are present on several cell types in arteries, not only on medial smooth muscle, but also on adventitial, endothelial and nerve cells; (ii) all three receptor subtypes (α1A, α1B, α1D) are capable of binding ligands at the cell surface, strongly indicating that they are capable of function and not merely expressed. (iii) all of these cell types can take up an antagonist ligand into the intracellular compartments to which endocytosing receptors move; (iv) each individual subtype can exist at the cell surface and intracellularly in the absence of the other subtypes. As functional pharmacological experiments show variations in the involvement of the different subtypes in contractions of different arteries, it is concluded that the presence and disposition of α1‐adrenoceptors in arteries is not a simple guide to their involvement in function. Similar locations of the subtypes, even in different cell types, suggest that differences between the distribution of subtypes in model systems do not directly correlate with those in native tissues. This review includes a historical summary of the alternative terms used for adrenoceptors (adrenergic receptors, adrenoreceptors) and the author's views on the use of colours to illustrate different items, given his partial colour‐blindness.
Children's participation in LAC reviews: a study in one English local authority
Authors: Pert Hayley , Diaz Clive , Thomas Nigel
Published: November 2014

Although the law in England and Wales requires a child's wishes and feelings to be heard in LAC (Looked After Children) reviews, there remains limited research into how far this is achieved. This study interviewed 25 children and 16 foster carers to explore how well children understand and take part in reviews, and what factors impede this. The study found that levels of participation, as experienced by children and foster carers, were very low and the methods used were relatively ineffective. Children experienced significant barriers in engaging with the review process. The paper concludes that, as a vehicle of children's participation, LAC reviews are still not working well and calls for more attention to the views of children and young people and to the effectiveness of LAC reviews.
The Role of Surface Similarity in Analogical Retrieval: Bridging the Gap Between the Naturalistic and the Experimental Traditions
Authors: Trench Máximo , Minervino Ricardo A.
Published: November 2014

Blanchette and Dunbar (2000) have claimed that when participants are allowed to draw on their own source analogs in the service of analogical argumentation, retrieval is less constrained by surface similarity than traditional experiments suggest. In two studies, we adapted this production paradigm to control for the potentially distorting effects of analogy fabrication and uneven availability of close and distant sources in memory. Experiment 1 assessed whether participants were reminded of central episodes from popular movies while generating analogies for superficially similar versus superficially dissimilar target situations. In Experiment 2, we modified this procedure to assess the retrieval of autobiographic memories, more familiar to participants than fictional episodes. Both studies revealed a strong effect of surface similarity on the retrieval of participants' own sources, thus suggesting that the superficial bias typically observed in experimental studies—and simulated by most computational models—does not originate in a lack of ecological validity.
Safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of pregabalin in children with refractory partial seizures: A phase 1, randomized controlled study
Authors: Mann Donald , Liu Jing , Chew Marci L. , Bockbrader Howard , Alvey Christine W. , Zegarac Elizabeth , Pellock John , Pitman Verne W.
Published: November 2014

Objective

To evaluate the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics (PK) of pregabalin as adjunctive therapy in children with refractory partial seizures.

Methods

This was a phase 1, randomized, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group, escalating‐dose, multiple‐dose study comprising a 7‐day, double‐blind treatment period and a single‐blind, single dose of pregabalin administered to all children on day 8. Children in four age cohorts (1–23 months, 2–6, 7–11, and 12–16 years) received one of four doses of pregabalin (2.5, 5, 10, or 15 mg/kg/day) or placebo. Safety and tolerability were assessed throughout the study. Steady‐state and single‐dose PK parameters on day 8 were analyzed using standard noncompartmental procedures.

Results

Sixty‐five children received at least one dose of treatment. Four pregabalin‐treated children discontinued treatment, three of whom received 15 mg/kg/day. Two children experienced serious adverse events, one of whom received pregabalin 15 mg/kg/day. During double‐blind treatment, the most common adverse events reported in the pregabalin‐treated population were somnolence (27.1%) and dizziness (12.5%). Steady‐state pregabalin peak and total exposure in each age cohort appeared to increase linearly with dose. Apparent oral clearance (CL/F) was directly related to creatinine clearance, consistent with adults. CL/F normalized for body weight was 43% higher in patients weighing <30 kg. Steady‐state and single‐dose PK were consistent.

Significance

Pregabalin at doses up to 10 mg/kg/day in children aged 1 month to 16 years, and at doses up to 15 mg/kg/day in those aged <6 years, demonstrated acceptable safety and tolerability. For children weighing <30 kg, a dose increase of 40% (mg/kg dosing) is required to achieve comparable exposure with adults or children weighing ≥30 kg. These data will inform dose selection in phase 3 trials of the efficacy and safety of adjunctive pregabalin in children with refractory partial seizures.
A reliable and time‐saving semiautomatic spike‐template–based analysis of interictalEEG–fMRI
Authors: Tousseyn Simon , Dupont Patrick , Robben David , Goffin Karolien , Sunaert Stefan , Van Paesschen Wim
Published: November 2014

Objective

A prerequisite for the implementation of interictal electroencephalography–correlated functional magnetic resonance imaging (EEG‐fMRI) in the presurgical work‐up for epilepsy surgery is straightforward processing. We propose a new semi‐automatic method as alternative for the challenging and time‐consuming visual spike identification.

Methods

Our method starts from a patient‐specific spike‐template, built by averaging spikes recorded on theEEGoutside the scanner. Spatiotemporal cross‐correlations between the template and theEEGmeasured during fMRIwere calculated. To minimize false‐positive detections, this time course of cross‐correlations was binarized by means of a spike‐template–specific threshold determined in healthy controls. To inform our model for statistical parametric mapping, this binarized regressor was convolved with the canonical hemodynamic response function. We validated our “template‐based” method in 21 adult patients with refractory focal epilepsy with a well‐defined epileptogenic zone and interictal spikes duringEEG‐fMRI. Sensitivity and specificity for detecting the epileptogenic zone were calculated and represented in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Our approach was compared with a previously proposed semiautomatic “topography‐based” method that used the topographic amplitude distribution of spikes as a starting point for correlation‐based fitting.

Results

Good diagnostic performance could be reached with our template‐based method. The optimal area under theROCcurve was 0.77. Diagnostic performance of the topography‐based method was overall low.

Significance

Our new template‐based method is more standardized and time‐saving than visual spike identification on intra‐scannerEEGrecordings, and preserves good diagnostic performance for detecting the epileptogenic zone.
Parental decision making around perinatal autopsy: a qualitative investigation
Authors: Meaney Sarah , Gallagher Stephen , Lutomski Jennifer E. , O'Donoghue Keelin
Published: November 2014

Background

Decades of decline in uptake rates of perinatal autopsies has limited investigation into the causes and risk factors for stillbirth.

Aims

This study aimed to qualitatively explore perinatal autopsy decision‐making processes in parents who experienced antepartum and intrapartum stillbirths.

Material and Methods

A qualitative semi‐structured interview format was utilized. The line of questioning centred on how parents came to decide on consenting or declining to have a perinatal autopsy undertaken. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was employed as the analytic strategy. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 10 parents who either consented or declined autopsy from a large tertiary maternity hospital in Cork Ireland, where there were 30 stillbirths in 2011.

Results

Findings revealed four superordinate themes influencing parents’ decision‐making which varied with type of stillbirth experienced. Those parents who experienced antepartum stillbirths were more likely to consent; thus, knowing that the child was stillborn prior to delivery rather than on the day of delivery was associated with consent. In fact, these parents had more time for meaning‐making; those consenting wanted to rule out self‐blame and were fearful about future pregnancies. Parents who declined autopsy wanted to protect their infant from further harm. Interestingly, parents’ knowledge and understanding of the autopsy itself were acquired primarily from public discourse.

Conclusion

Parents’ decision‐making regarding autopsy is profoundly affected by their emotional response to stillbirth; clinicians and other health professionals may play a key role, especially if they can address parental concerns regarding the invasiveness of the autopsy procedure.
Ratios, adaptations, and the differential metabolic capability of avian flight muscles
Authors: Jehl Joseph R. , Henry Annette E. , Swanson David L.
Published: November 2014

The eared grebe Podiceps nigricollis shows seasonal variation in the relative size of the major flight muscles that lift and lower the wing: respectively, supracoracoideus (s) and pectoralis (p). S/p ratios are low (≈0.07–0.12) when grebes are in flying condition, higher (≈0.11–0.15) when staging and flightless, and extreme (to 0.29) when starving. Shifts were driven by changes in the protein content in the pectoralis; intramuscular fat had little effect. S/p ratios also vary seasonally in the red knot Calidris canutus and are higher in birds newly arrived in breeding areas than at other times. If that increase was an adaptive response to promote wing‐lifting in association with various breeding behaviors as suggested, one would expect it to result from an absolute increase in the post‐arrival size of the supracoracoideus, which was not observed. Instead, we propose that it is unrelated to enhancing the upstroke but results from a decrease in the size of the pectoralis, which is a consequence of the greater rate at which this muscle is catabolized in times of exertion and stress, as at the end of a long migration or during starvation. Fuller data on the size, morphology and physiology of individual muscles at various stages of the annual cycle and migration will help to clarify how ratio changes are achieved, and evaluate potential adaptive significance.
Pair bond characteristics and maintenance in free‐flying jackdawsCorvus monedula: effects of social context and season
Authors: Kubitza Robin J. , Bugnyar Thomas , Schwab Christine
Published: November 2014

Most birds rely on cooperation between pair partners for breeding. In long‐term monogamous species, pair bonds are considered the basic units of social organization, albeit these birds often form foraging, roosting or breeding groups in which they repeatedly interact with numerous conspecifics. Focusing on jackdawsCorvus monedula, we here investigated 1) the interplay between pair bond and group dynamics in several social contexts and 2) how pair partners differ in individual effort of pair bond maintenance. Based on long‐term data on free‐flying birds, we quantified social interactions between group members within three positive contexts (spatial proximity, feeding and sociopositive interactions) for different periods of the year (non‐breeding, pre‐breeding, parental care). On the group level, we found that the number of interaction partners was highest in the spatial proximity context while in the feeding and sociopositive contexts the number of interaction partners was low and moderately low, respectively. Interactions were reciprocated within almost all contexts and periods. Investigating subgrouping within the flock, results showed that interactions were preferentially directed towards the respective pair partner compared to unmated adults. When determining pair partner effort, both sexes similarly invested most into mutual proximity during late winter, thereby refreshing their bond before the onset of breeding. Paired males fed their mates over the entire year at similar rates while paired females hardly fed their mates at all but engaged in sociopositive behaviors instead. We conclude that jackdaws actively seek out positive social ties to flock members (close proximity, sociopositive behavior), at certain times of the year. Thus, the group functions as a dynamic social unit, nested within are highly cooperative pair bonds. Both sexes invested into the bond with different social behaviors and different levels of effort, yet these are likely male and female proximate mechanisms aimed at maintaining and perpetuating the pair bond.
Endocan: A New Molecule Playing a Role in the Development of Hypertension and Chronic Kidney Disease?
Authors: Afsar Baris , Takir Mumtaz , Kostek Osman , Covic Adrian , Kanbay Mehmet
Published: November 2014

Recently, endocan—formerly known as endothelial cell‐specific molecule 1 (ESM‐1)—was found to be associated with entities such as cancer, hypertension, renal transplant rejection, and chronic renal failure. Endothelial cells of many organs secrete endocan, but the exact functions of this relatively new molecule have not been elucidated completely. Emerging evidence suggests, however, that endocan plays an important role in inflammation, upregulation of cell adhesion molecules, lymphocyte functions, and endothelial cytoskeleton rearrangement. As suggested above, endocan has a prognostic impact in hypertension, transplant rejection, and chronic renal failure. In the current review, the evidence regarding endocan, hypertension, and chronic renal failure are summarized.
HDAC‐inhibitor (S)‐8 disrupts HDAC6‐PP1 complex prompting A375 melanoma cell growth arrest and apoptosis
Authors: Balliu Manjola , Guandalini Luca , Romanelli Maria Novella , D'Amico Massimo , Paoletti Francesco
Published: November 2014

Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) are agents capable of inducing growth arrest and apoptosis in different tumour cell types. Previously, we reported a series of novel HDACi obtained by hybridizing SAHA or oxamflatin with 1,4‐benzodiazepines. Some of these hybrids proved effective against haematological and solid cancer cells and, above all, compound (S)‐8 has emerged for its activities in various biological systems. Here, we describe the effectiveness of (S)‐8 against highly metastatic human A375 melanoma cells by using normal PIG1 melanocytes as control. (S)‐8 prompted: acetylation of histones H3/H4 and α‐tubulin; G0/G1 and G2/M cell cycle arrest by rising p21 and hypophos‐phorylated RB levels; apoptosis involving the cleavage of PARP and caspase 9, BAD protein augmentation and cytochrome c release; decrease in cell motility, invasiveness and pro‐angiogenic potential as shown by results of wound‐healing assay, down‐regulation of MMP‐2 and VEGF‐A/VEGF‐R2, besides TIMP‐1/TIMP‐2 up‐regulation; and also intracellular accumulation of melanin and neutral lipids. The pan‐caspase inhibitor Z‐VAD‐fmk, but not the antioxidant N‐acetyl‐cysteine, contrasted these events. Mechanistically, (S)‐8 allows the disruption of cytoplasmic HDAC6‐protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) complex in A375 cells thus releasing the active PP1 that dephosphorylates AKT and blocks its downstream pro‐survival signalling. This view is consistent with results obtained by: inhibiting PP1 with Calyculin A; using PPP1R2‐transfected cells with impaired PP1 activity; monitoring drug‐induced HDAC6‐PP1 complex re‐shuffling; and, abrogating HDAC6 expression with specific siRNA. Altogether, (S)‐8 proved very effective against melanoma A375 cells, but not normal melanocytes, and safe to normal mice thus offering attractive clinical prospects for treating this aggressive malignancy.
Pruritus and quality of life in moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis: post hoc explorative analysis from the PRISTINE study
Authors: Mrowietz U. , Chouela E.N. , Mallbris L. , Stefanidis D. , Marino V. , Pedersen R. , Boggs R. L.
Published: November 2014

Background

Pruritus is a clinically important symptom of psoriasis that has a major impact on quality of life (QoL).

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine pruritus and QoL in patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis treated with etanercept (ETN) in the PRISTINE clinical trial.

Methods

Patients were randomized (1 : 1, double‐blind) to ETN 50 mg QW or 50 mg BIW for 12 weeks, followed by 50 mg QW for 12 weeks. Pruritus was reported as 0 (no itching) to 5 (severe itching). Associations were examined between pruritus and Psoriasis Area and Severity Index, Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Screening (HADS), Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy‐Fatigue (FACIT‐Fatigue), Euro‐Qol 5D (EQ‐5D) and Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Sleep Index II.

Results

At baseline, patients (n = 270) had a mean pruritus level of 3.6. Itching (level ≥1) was reported by 96% of patients, 62% of whom had severe itching (level ≥4) and 26% had the highest level of itching. DLQI, HADS‐Anxiety, HADS‐Depression, FACIT‐Fatigue, EQ‐5D visual analog scale, and MOS Sleep Index II were significantly associated with itch. At week 12, mean pruritus improvement in the ETN BIW/QW group was greater than in the QW/QW group (2.4 vs. 1.6, P < 0.001), but not at week 24 (2.2 vs. 2.0, P = 0.180). Patients with the most severe itching at baseline (score of 5) had a mean score of 1.7 at week 24. Overall, patients with clinically meaningful pruritus improvement at week 24 reported greater improvement in QoL measures than other patients.

Conclusion

Most patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis in this study (96%) reported pruritus. Pruritus improved significantly with ETN therapy and was strongly associated with improvements in QoL. These data support the clinical relevance of pruritus as an important symptom of patients with moderate/severe psoriasis.
Bariatric surgery – a dermatologic perspective
Authors: Wollina U. , Dreßler M. , Lohmann T.
Published: November 2014

Bariatric surgery has become a standard option in morbid obesity for patients not responding to conventional treatment. A major and stable weight loss can be achieved. Since obesity and weight loss may affect skin diseases, we performed this review to analyse the impact of bariatric surgery on a number of skin diseases. We categorized the skin diseases into three main groups: (i) diseases with a possible benefit from bariatric surgery, (ii) diseases that may develop after bariatric surgery and (iii) diseases that may persist. We hope that dermatologists will achieve an updated knowledge of benefits and possible hazards of this type of surgically induced weight loss.
A novel fish cell line derived from the brain of Chinese perch Siniperca chuatsi: development and characterization
Authors: Fu X. , Li N. , Lai Y. , Luo X. , Wang Y. , Shi C. , Huang Z. , Wu S. , Su J.
Published: November 2014

In this study, a continuous cell line (named as CPB) was established from Siniperca chuatsi brain and has been subcultured >140 times. CPB cell line predominantly consisted of fibroblast‐like cells that could grow better in Leibovitz's L‐15 supplemented with 10% foetal bovine serum at 28° C. Polymerase chain reaction amplification of 18s recombinant (r)RNA confirmed the origin of this cell line from S. chuatsi. The CPB cell line was cryopreserved at different passage levels and revived successfully with 80–90% survival. The cell line was further characterized by chromosome number and transfection. The CPB cells were highly susceptible to infectious spleen and kidney necrosis virus (ISKNV) with a titre of 6·58–6·62 log TCID50 ml−1 and numerous ISKNV particles were observed in the cytoplasm by transmission electron microscopy. At the same time, ISKNV infection was confirmed by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, immunodot blot and individual challenge experiments. The development and characterization of a new brain cell line from S. chuatsi were described in this study and it could be used as an in vitro tool for propagation of ISKNV and gene expression studies.
Proton beam therapy for unresectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Ohkawa Ayako , Mizumoto Masashi , Ishikawa Hitoshi , Abei Masato , Fukuda Kuniaki , Hashimoto Takayuki , Sakae Takeji , Tsuboi Koji , Okumura Toshiyuki , Sakurai Hideyuki
Published: November 2014

Background and Aim

Treatment for unresectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) has not been established. The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcome of proton beam therapy (PBT) for patients with unresectable ICC.

Methods

Up to 2010, 20 patients (11 males, 9 females, median age 63 years old) with unresectable ICC (two, seven, seven, and four in stages II, IIIA, IIIC, and IV, respectively) were treated with PBT. The largest dimensions of the tumors ranged from 15 to 140 mm (median: 50 mm). The intrahepatic region and lymph nodes received median total proton doses of 72.6 GyE in 22 fractions and 56.1 GyE in 17 fractions, respectively. Four patients received concurrent chemotherapy (tegafur, gimeracil, and oteracil; TS‐1) during PBT. Twelve patients were treated curatively, and eight were treated palliatively because tumors were present outside the irradiation field.

Results

In the curative group, nine tumors within the irradiated field were controlled in follow‐up of 8.6–62.6 months (median: 20.8 months). Median survival rates in the curative and palliative groups were 27.5 and 9.6 months, respectively, and overall 1‐ and 3‐year survival rates were 82% and 38%, and 50% and 0%, respectively. Eight patients survived for > 2 years, and there was no distant metastasis in five of these patients after 2 years. No severe side‐effects occurred.

Conclusions

The results suggest that long‐term survival can be achieved using PBT for patients with unresectable ICC without distant metastasis. Further studies are required to determine the optimal treatment schedule and best combination of PBT and chemotherapy.
Ghrelin Signalling on Food Reward: A Salient Link Between the Gut and the Mesolimbic System
Authors: Perello M. , Dickson S. L.
Published: November 2014

‘Hunger is the best spice’ is an old and wise saying that acknowledges the fact that almost any food tastes better when we are hungry. The neurobiological underpinnings of this lore include activation of the brain's reward system and the stimulation of this system by the hunger‐promoting hormone ghrelin. Ghrelin is produced largely from the stomach and levels are higher preprandially. The ghrelin receptor is expressed in many brain areas important for feeding control, including not only the hypothalamic nuclei involved in energy balance regulation, but also reward‐linked areas such as the ventral tegmental area. By targeting the mesoaccumbal dopamine neurones of the ventral tegmental area, ghrelin recruits pathways important for food reward‐related behaviours that show overlap with but are also distinct from those important for food intake. We review a variety of studies that support the notion that ghrelin signalling at the level of the mesolimbic system is one of the key molecular substrates that provides a physiological signal connecting gut and reward pathways.
Role of the Different Sexuality Domains on the Sexual Function of Women with Premature Ovarian Failure
Authors: Benetti-Pinto Cristina Laguna , Soares Patrícia Magda , Giraldo Helena Patrícia Donovan , Yela Daniela Angerame
Published: November 2014

Introduction

Women with premature ovarian failure (POF) often manifest complaints involving different aspects of sexual function (SF), regardless of using hormone therapy. SF involves a complex interaction between physical, psychological, and sociocultural aspects. There are doubts about the impact of different complaints on the global context of SF of women with POF.

Aim

To evaluate the percentage of influence of each of the sexuality domains on the SF in women with POF.

Methods

Cross-sectional study with 80 women with POF, matched by age to 80 women with normal gonadal function. We evaluated SF through the “Female Sexual Function Index” (FSFI), a comparison between the POF and control groups using the Mann–Whitney test. Component exploratory factor analysis was used to assess the proportional influence of each domain on the composition of the overall SF for women in the POF group.

Main Outcome Measures

SF was evaluated using FSFI. Exploratory Factor Analysis for components was used to evaluate the role of each domain on the SF of women with POF.

Results

The FSFI score was significantly worse for women with POF, with a decrease in arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and dyspareunia. Exploratory factor analysis of SF showed that the domain with greater influence in the SF was arousal, followed by desire, together accounting for 41% of the FSFI. The domains with less influence were dyspareunia and lubrication, which together accounted for 25% of the FSFI.

Conclusion

Women with POF have impaired SF, determined mainly by changes in arousal and desire. Aspects related to lubrication and dyspareunia complaints have lower determination coefficient in SF. These results are important in adapting the approach of sexual disorders in this group of women.
Changes in the Sexual Function During Pregnancy
Authors: Gałązka Iwona , Drosdzol-Cop Agnieszka , Naworska Beata , Czajkowska Mariola , Skrzypulec-Plinta Violetta
Published: November 2014

Introduction

The physiological changes during each trimester of pregnancy have a significant impact on women's sexual behavior.

Aim

The aim of the work was to assess changes in the sexual function during pregnancy.

Methods

The prospective study encompassed 520 pregnant women aged between 18 and 45, of whom 168 were qualified for the final analysis. The research tool was a purpose-designed research questionnaire and the standardized Female Sexual Function Index.

Main Outcome Measures

To assess changes in the sexual function among pregnant women aged 18–45 in the three pregnancy trimesters.

Results

All the studied parameters, i.e., desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain, decreased significantly with the progression of pregnancy. Analyzing the frequency of sexual intercourse in the studied group before and during pregnancy, a statistically significant decrease (P < 0.000001) was observed. Sexual desire changed statistically significantly (P = 0.0004). The direction of change concerned decreased sexual desire in the three trimesters compared with the situation before pregnancy. Statistical significance was demonstrated for: decreased sexual desire (P = 0.00007), partner's reluctance (P = 0.002), and pregnancy-related changes in appearance (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Sexual function was compromised and sexual activity decreased as the pregnancy progressed. Changes in the domains of arousal, lubrication, and orgasm were particularly notable in primaparae in the third trimester of pregnancy. Unsatisfying partner relationship was a significant factor affecting the quality of sexual life during pregnancy.
Genetic structure analysis of strains causing citrus canker in Iran reveals the presence of two different lineages of Xanthomonas citri pv. citri pathotype A*
Authors: Pruvost O. , Goodarzi T. , Boyer K. , Soltaninejad H. , Escalon A. , Alavi S. M. , Javegny S. , Boyer C. , Cottyn B. , Gagnevin L. , Vernière C.
Published: November 2014

West Asia has been recognized as a major centre for the diversification of Xanthomonas citri pv. citri, a citrus quarantine pathogen of considerable economic importance. However, little genotyping data is available mainly due to the paucity of microbial resources in this region. Using a comprehensive strain collection, several genotyping techniques and a pathogenicity assay, the status of strains causing Asiatic citrus canker in Iran, an internationally significant citrus‐producing country, was clarified. All strains were genetically related to X. citri pv. citri pathotype A* (i.e. strains with a host range restricted to Mexican lime and related species) but not to pathotype A (i.e. strains with a wide host range among rutaceous species). The findings were based on discriminant analysis of the principal components of MLVA‐31 data and were further confirmed by pathogenicity data. Two genetically, geographically and pathologically separate groups of strains in Iran were identified. One of the groups had never been previously reported anywhere in the world. A very strong genetic structure was found (RST = 0·938), consistent with their geographical isolation. Strains from these two groups also differed in terms of their type III effector repertoire. The atypical host range of one of these groups could explain why some Iranian strains had previously been mistakenly identified as pathotype A. This study suggests the absence of invasive pathotype A strains in Iran (known as DAPC 1), which account for most of the economically important outbreaks internationally.
Genetic variants of pulmonary SP‐D predict disease outcome of COPD in a Chinese population
Authors: Ou Chih‐Ying , Chen Chiung‐Zuei , Hsiue Tzuen‐Ren , Lin Sheng‐Hsiang , Wang Jiu‐Yao
Published: November 2014

Background and objective

Although surfactant protein‐D (SP‐D) has been suggested as a biomarker for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the relationship between genetic variants of SP‐D and disease outcome of COPD remains unknown. We hypothesized that genetic polymorphisms of SP‐D are associated with COPD‐related phenotypes and disease prognosis.

Methods

A hospital‐based, case‐controlled study was conducted prospectively. Six single nucleotide polymorphisms of the SFTPD gene were determined for genetic association analysis. Inflammatory cytokines and SP‐D serum level were quantified. Frequency of exacerbation and change of lung function were assessed. All‐cause 3‐year mortality was registered.

Results

We studied 320 smokers (192 with COPD and 128 at‐risk for COPD) who were prospectively monitored for at least 3 years. The serum levels of SP‐D in COPD patients were significantly associated with the degree of airflow obstruction and frequency of exacerbation. Haplotype association analysis revealed that haplotype G‐G‐C‐C‐A was associated with lower risk of COPD (P = 0.03) in our study population. COPD patients with haplotype G‐G‐C‐C‐A had lower serum SP‐D levels (P < 0.001), higher rates of positive response to bronchodilator treatment (P = 0.01), more improvement of forced expiratory volume in 1 s in yearly follow‐up (P = 0.03) and better 3‐year survival rate than COPD patients with non G‐G‐C‐C‐A haplotype (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Genetic haplotype of SP‐D may serve as a valuable prognostic indicator in Chinese patients with COPD.
Is non‐invasive ventilation safe in acute severe asthma?
Authors: Pallin Michael , Hew Mark , Naughton Matthew T.
Published: November 2014

Background and objective

The effect of non‐invasive ventilation (NIV) in acute severe asthma is unclear and there are concerns regarding its safety.

Methods

We undertook a 5‐year case–control review of mortality and morbidity associated with NIV use in acute severe asthma and compared this with asthma requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) and a control group with less severe asthma without ventilatory support.

Results

Eight hundred seventy‐three patients had acute severe asthma of whom 30 were treated with NIV, 17 with IMV and 90 served as controls. The mean duration of NIV was 9.5 ± 7.3 h with inspiratory positive airway pressure and expiratory positive airway pressure of 11.9 ± 1.4 and 5.8 ± 1.2 cmH2O respectively. Mortality was zero in the NIV and control groups, compared with 41% in the IMV group. None of the NIV or control groups required escalation to invasive ventilation. There were no instances of haemodynamic compromise in the NIV or control groups. Length of hospital stay was 121 ± 96 h in the NIV group and similar to the severe IMV group (136 ± 99 h, P > 0.05) and significantly longer than the control group (42 ± 40 h, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

NIV can be safely used in acute severe asthma although further work is needed to delineate the precise patient selection process.
Coherent transmutation of electrons into fractionalized anyons
Authors: Barkeshli Maissam , Berg Erez , Kivelson Steven
Published: November 2014

Nailing down a quantum spin liquid

Quantum spin liquids (QSLs) possess magnetic interactions that, even at absolute zero temperature, remain in a disordered liquid-like spin state. It is very difficult to prove unambiguously that a material is a QSL, because there is always a possibility that it can become ordered below the lowest measured temperature. Barkeshli
et al.
used quantum field theory to propose a direct way to identify a QSL by placing it in contact with other exotic materials, such as superconductors or magnets. The theory predicted that, at such a boundary, electrons entering the QSL would turn into excitations lacking charge or lacking spin. Future experiments may be able to detect this transmutation.

Science
, this issue p.
722
Microscopic mechanisms of equilibrium melting of a solid
Authors: Samanta Amit , Tuckerman Mark E. , Yu Tang-Qing , E Weinan
Published: November 2014

Melting can follow many pathways

Melting involves the loss of order as additional kinetic energy is added to a system. Although simple models of this sort of phase transition exist, it can be very difficult to observe the initial stages either experimentally or using simulations. Samanta
et al.
developed a robust rareevent sampling technique that makes it possible to examine melting events without needing excessive computing time (see the Perspective by van de Walle). For both copper and aluminum, they observed the formation of defects that act as starting points for the melting process rather than the homogeneous loss of order assumed in classic nucleation theory.

Science
, this issue p.
729
Enteric bacteria promote human and mouse norovirus infection of B cells
Authors: Jones Melissa K. , Watanabe Makiko , Zhu Shu , Graves Christina L. , Keyes Lisa R. , Grau Katrina R. , Gonzalez-Hernandez Mariam B. , Iovine Nicole M. , Wobus Christiane E. , Vinjé Jan , Tibbetts Scott A. , Wallet Shannon M. , Karst Stephanie M.
Published: November 2014

Bacteria help norovius infect B cells

Stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea—many people know the sort of gastrointestinal havoc norovirus can wreak. Despite this, norovirus biology remains unclear, because human norovirus cannot be grown in culture. Jones
et al.
now report that with the help of bacteria, human norovirus can infect cultured B cells (see the Perspective by Robinson and Pfeiffer). To infect B cells, human norovirus required the presence of gut bacteria that expressed proteins involved in determining blood type. Mouse norovirus also infected B cells, and the treatment of mice with antibiotics protected them from norovirus infection.

Science
, this issue p.
755
; see also p.
700
Phylogenomics resolves the timing and pattern of insect evolution
Authors: Misof Bernhard , Liu Shanlin , Meusemann Karen , Peters Ralph S. , Donath Alexander , Mayer Christoph , Frandsen Paul B. , Ware Jessica , Flouri Tomáš , Beutel Rolf G. , Niehuis Oliver , Petersen Malte , Izquierdo-Carrasco Fernando , Wappler Torsten , Rust Jes , Aberer Andre J. , Aspöck Ulrike , Aspöck Horst , Bartel Daniela , Blanke Alexander , Berger Simon , Böhm Alexander , Buckley Thomas R. , Calcott Brett , Chen Junqing , Friedrich Frank , Fukui Makiko , Fujita Mari , Greve Carola , Grobe Peter , Gu Shengchang , Huang Ying , Jermiin Lars S. , Kawahara Akito Y. , Krogmann Lars , Kubiak Martin , Lanfear Robert , Letsch Harald , Li Yiyuan , Li Zhenyu , Li Jiguang , Lu Haorong , Machida Ryuichiro , Mashimo Yuta , Kapli Pashalia , McKenna Duane D. , Meng Guanliang , Nakagaki Yasutaka , Navarrete-Heredia José Luis , Ott Michael , Ou Yanxiang , Pass Günther , Podsiadlowski Lars , Pohl Hans , von Reumont Björn M. , Schütte Kai , Sekiya Kaoru , Shimizu Shota , Slipinski Adam , Stamatakis Alexandros , Song Wenhui , Su Xu , Szucsich Nikolaus U. , Tan Meihua , Tan Xuemei , Tang Min , Tang Jingbo , Timelthaler Gerald , Tomizuka Shigekazu , Trautwein Michelle , Tong Xiaoli , Uchifune Toshiki , Walzl Manfred G. , Wiegmann Brian M. , Wilbrandt Jeanne , Wipfler Benjamin , Wong Thomas K. F. , Wu Qiong , Wu Gengxiong , Xie Yinlong , Yang Shenzhou , Yang Qing , Yeates David K. , Yoshizawa Kazunori , Zhang Qing , Zhang Rui , Zhang Wenwei , Zhang Yunhui , Zhao Jing , Zhou Chengran , Zhou Lili , Ziesmann Tanja , Zou Shijie , Li Yingrui , Xu Xun , Zhang Yong , Yang Huanming , Wang Jian , Wang Jun , Kjer Karl M. , Zhou Xin
Published: November 2014

Toward an insect evolution resolution

Insects are the most diverse group of animals, with the largest number of species. However, many of the evolutionary relationships between insect species have been controversial and difficult to resolve. Misof
et al.
performed a phylogenomic analysis of protein-coding genes from all major insect orders and close relatives, resolving the placement of taxa. The authors used this resolved phylogenetic tree together with fossil analysis to date the origin of insects to ~479 million years ago and to resolve long-controversial subjects in insect phylogeny.

Science
, this issue p.
763
On the origin of near-infrared extragalactic background light anisotropy
Authors: Zemcov Michael , Smidt Joseph , Arai Toshiaki , Bock James , Cooray Asantha , Gong Yan , Kim Min Gyu , Korngut Phillip , Lam Anson , Lee Dae Hee , Matsumoto Toshio , Matsuura Shuji , Nam Uk Won , Roudier Gael , Tsumura Kohji , Wada Takehiko
Published: November 2014

A diffuse cosmic glow is not primordial

A cumulative map of all photons ever emitted by any star or galaxy is a highly desirable historical record of the universe's evolution. For this reason, cosmologists have sought to measure this diffuse distribution of light: the extragalactic background light. Zemcov
et al.
sent up a rocket to measure the fluctuations in this faint background and found largescale fluctuations greater than known galaxies alone should produce (see the Perspective by Moseley). Stars tidally stripped from their host galaxies are the most likely culprit, rather than unknown primordial galaxies.

Science
, this issue p.
732
; see also p.
696
An Internet research project draws conservative ire
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: November 2014

Truthy project at Indiana University analyzes Twitter traffic to understand patterns of political discourse.
Regional delivery of mesothelin-targeted CAR T cell therapy generates potent and long-lasting CD4-dependent tumor immunity
Authors: Adusumilli Prasad S. , Cherkassky Leonid , Villena-Vargas Jonathan , Colovos Christos , Servais Elliot , Plotkin Jason , Jones David R. , Sadelain Michel
Published: November 2014

Regional CAR T cell delivery provides superior protection compared to systemic administration.
Science Translational Medicine
Podcast: 05 November 2014
Authors: Barnes Eleanor , VanHook Annalisa
Published: November 2014

Eleanor Barnes describes how a prime-boost vaccine strategy induces T cell responses that are important for HCV control.
Exploring the Link Between Traumatic Brain Injury and Dementia
Authors: Nishijima Daniel K.
Published: November 2014

In older people, experiencing an injury to the brain increases the risk of developing dementia.
Ten minute chat
Authors: Roberts Maggie
Published: November 2014

Maggie Roberts is director of veterinary services at Cats Protection (CP). She recently took up the role of secretary of the newly formed Association of Charity Vets
Active learning
Authors: Curwen Andrew
Published: November 2014

XLVets UK recently launched VetSkills, a programme that is designed to provide practical, proactive and participative CPD. Chief executive, Andrew Curwen, explains why
Seeking variety and a good work/life balance
Authors: Dass Melanie
Published: November 2014

After honing her skills in mixed practice, Melanie Dass went on to work in small animal practice in London. After 11 years in practice, she moved to industry. Currently senior product manager and part of the marketing team at MSD Animal Health, she explains how her job fits in with family life and her passion for veterinary medicine
On‐farm safety
Authors: Kilroy Rachael
Published: November 2014

The BVA's Members Services Group (MSG) is developing guidance on farm safety tailored for vets and vet students. It is also developing a risk assessment template with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The Association seeks your help in gathering information to help it understand and identify problem areas.
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Pearson Emma
Published: November 2014

Emma Pearson took up triathlon sports as a hobby in 2009, and it wasn't long before she qualified to compete for Great Britain. Last year she won a gold medal in the European Sprint Triathlon in Eilat, Israel. She works part time as a small animal vet in Morpeth, Northumberland
Communicating successfully
Authors: Boland Zara
Published: November 2014

Communication is the art of interaction and information exchange. Zara Boland discusses why some skills are more important than others
Venturing into partnership
Authors: Knowles Luke
Published: November 2014

After working within independent practices, company‐owned and group practices for a number of years, Luke Knowles wanted to move his career up a notch, while continuing to practise and learn, but with the power to make clinical and business decisions
Veterinary forensics: doing the right thing
Authors: Merck Melinda
Published: November 2014

Melinda Merck is a forensic veterinarian consulting on cases involving animals; she is based in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. She also provides training for veterinary, attorney and law enforcement professionals internationally and developed the first veterinary forensics course in the USA
Being involved in history
Authors: Jones Bruce Vivash
Published: November 2014

After a short time in practice, followed by a research and teaching role at the Royal Veterinary College, Bruce Vivash Jones joined the pharmaceutical industry before setting up his own consultancy business. He also has a penchant for veterinary history
Making the most of basic nursing skills abroad
Authors: Aitken Dawn
Published: November 2014

Dawn Aitken put her VN training to good use by joining a Worldwide Veterinary Service trip to Malawi
Developing a career in conservation medicine
Authors: Meredith Anna
Published: November 2014

The University of Edinburgh's online distance learning programme in conservation medicine leads to the award of a masters degree, a diploma or a certificate. Programme director Anna Meredith describes who the course is aimed at and what is on offer
Developing a taste for research
Authors: Chalder Ria
Published: November 2014

Before beginning her veterinary studies, Ria Chalder did a biochemistry degree, during which she gained an appreciation for research. As a student at Liverpool vet school, she sought to put her interest into practice
Role of the expert witness
Authors: Martin David
Published: November 2014

David Martin is a vet in mixed general practice and is regularly called upon as an expert witness. Here, he describes how to approach providing written and oral evidence for use in court in criminal and civil matters involving animals, and the experience of giving evidence in court
Integrating business management into postgraduate study
Authors: Sykes Ben
Published: November 2014

The University of Liverpool offers a postgraduate certificate in veterinary business management. Ben Sykes describes how the course is run
Practice support. How to spot the warning signs before you take the job
Authors: Locke Harvey
Published: November 2014

Small animal practitioner and BVA past‐president, Harvey Locke, will join recent graduate Stephanie Massey to discuss practice support at this year's BVA Careers Fair at the London Vet Show. Here he discusses what to look for
On course. Introduction to the UK veterinary profession
Authors: Manning Heather
Published: November 2014

‘Introduction to the UK veterinary profession’ is one of the BVA's CPD courses. Heather Manning describes what she gained from it.
The work of the named veterinary surgeon
Authors: Brouwer‐Ince Gerard
Published: November 2014

Gerard Brouwer‐Ince was formerly an inspector under the 1986 Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act. This article is based on a presentation he gave at the AWF Discussion Forum in London in May
Dreaming of an ideal practice
Authors: Forti Ashley
Published: November 2014

Ashley Forti came to Glasgow from Chicago to study veterinary medicine. Now in her fourth year, she is thinking about her future career
Practice manager in the South Atlantic
Authors: Bowles Sarah
Published: November 2014

Sarah Bowles began work with the Falkland Islands Government Department of Agriculture in 1998 as an agricultural assistant, before moving to the veterinary section to become practice manager/animal nurse