bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Melanin‐based colour polymorphism responding to climate change
Authors: Roulin Alexandre
Published: April 2014

Climate warming leads to a decrease in biodiversity. Organisms can deal with the new prevailing environmental conditions by one of two main routes, namely evolving new genetic adaptations or through phenotypic plasticity to modify behaviour and physiology. Melanin‐based colouration has important functions in animals including a role in camouflage and thermoregulation, protection against UV‐radiation and pathogens and, furthermore, genes involved in melanogenesis can pleiotropically regulate behaviour and physiology. In this article, I review the current evidence that differently coloured individuals are differentially sensitive to climate change. Predicting which of dark or pale colour variants (or morphs) will be more penalized by climate change will depend on the adaptive function of melanism in each species as well as how the degree of colouration covaries with behaviour and physiology. For instance, because climate change leads to a rise in temperature and UV‐radiation and dark colouration plays a role in UV‐protection, dark individuals may be less affected from global warming, if this phenomenon implies more solar radiation particularly in habitats of pale individuals. In contrast, as desertification increases, pale colouration may expand in those regions, whereas dark colourations may expand in regions where humidity is predicted to increase. Dark colouration may be also indirectly selected by climate warming because genes involved in the production of melanin pigments confer resistance to a number of stressful factors including those associated with climate warming. Furthermore, darker melanic individuals are commonly more aggressive than paler conspecifics, and hence they may better cope with competitive interactions due to invading species that expand their range in northern latitudes and at higher altitudes. To conclude, melanin may be a major component involved in adaptation to climate warming, and hence in animal populations melanin‐based colouration is likely to change as an evolutionary or plastic response to climate warming.
Sternal instability in a hemodialysis patient with secondary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Eleftheriadis Theodoros , Antoniadi Georgia , Leivaditis Konstantinos , Pissas Georgios , Liakopoulos Vassilios , Stefanidis Ioannis
Published: April 2014

A 77‐year‐old man, 11 years under chronic hemodialysis treatment for chronic renal failure of unknown origin, presented with anterior chest pain, dyspnea with paradoxical breathing, and sternal instability after a simple fall from a standing height. Patient underwent three‐vessel coronary artery bypass grafting 31 months ago. Computed tomography with three‐dimensional volume rendering showed sternal nonunion with a great gap between the two halves of the sternum and at least one fracture in the left half of the sternum. A successful surgical repair followed. Patient suffered from severe secondary hyperparathyroidism for many years. Despite treatment with sevelamer, paricalcitol and cinacalcet, intact parathyroid hormone was 1682 pg/mL. During the last 5 years, serum intact parathyroid hormone remained steadily above 1000 pg/mL. Patient refused parathyroidectomy in the past. We assume that long‐lasting severe hyperparathyroidism contributed to this rare and life‐threatening complication of median sternotomy in our patient, due to the detrimental effect of hyperparathyroidism on bone metabolism and its association with increased incidence of bone fractures and defect in bone fracture healing.
Computed tomography during hepatic arteriography pattern may predict hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence following transarterial chemoembolization
Authors: Katayama Kazuhiro , Ohkawa Kazuyoshi , Imanaka Kazuho , Sakakibara Mitsuru , Miyazaki Masanori , Kimura Haruki , Ishihara Akio , Matsunaga Takashi , Murata Masayuki , Nakazawa Tetsuro , Nakanishi Katsuyuki
Published: April 2014

Aim

This study aimed to determine the role of morphological patterns seen on imaging in predicting hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence following transarterial chemoembolization therapy.

Methods

Forty‐seven patients from a single center who underwent transarterial chemoembolization to treat unresectable hepatocellular carcinomas between January 2011 and June 2012 were included in this study. We investigated whether the two pretreatment findings on computed tomography during hepatic arteriography (pattern 1, the single nodule pattern; pattern 2, at least one nodule showing the contiguous multinodular pattern) and other factors (age, sex, etiology, serum total bilirubin, serum albumin, prothrombin time, platelet count, serum level of protein induced by vitamin K absence/antagonist‐II, serum α‐fetoprotein, number of previous treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma, tumor number and maximum tumor size, presence of hypovascular lesions) could predict post‐treatment recurrence.

Results

In a univariate analysis using Cox's proportional hazards model, serum total bilirubin, the serum level of protein induced by vitamin K absence/antagonist‐II (≤100 vs ≥101 mAU/mL), tumor morphology (pattern 1 vs 2) and tumor number (≤3 vs ≥4) showed statistical significance (≤0.05). In a multivariate analysis of these factors, morphology and tumor number showed significance. According to Kaplan–Meier estimation, the cumulative disease‐free survival rates were significantly lower in patients with four or more lesions than in those with three or less lesions and in patients showing pattern 2 than in those showing pattern 1.

Conclusion

Patients with pattern 2 hepatocellular carcinoma and/or four or more lesions may have a relatively high recurrence rate after transarterial chemoembolization.
Angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma of the pulmonary artery: a multidisciplinary discussion
Authors: Ghigna Maria‐Rosa , Hamdi Sarah , Petitpretz Patrick , Rohnean Adela , Florea Valentina , Mussot Sacha , Dartevelle Philippe , Dorfmuller Peter , Tu Ly , Thuillet Raphaël , Guignabert Christophe , Thomas‐de‐Montpreville Vincent
Published: April 2014

Aims

Angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma (AFH) is a rare neoplastic disease usually occurring in the dermis or subcutis of the extremities of young adults or children. Although sporadic cases in deep soft tissue and visceral organs have been reported, we present here the first description of AFH developing in a large artery.

Methods and results

Paraffin sections of the surgical specimen were stained with haematoxylin and eosin, and immunohistochemistry was performed (CKAE1/AE3, EMA, CD34, p63, CD38, smooth muscle actin, and desmin). In addition, FISH and RT‐PCR were applied in order to check for EWRS rearrangement. The histomorphological features, and FISH analysis revealing rearrangement of EWSR, indicated the definitive diagnosis of AFH. RT‐PCR confirmed EWSR rearrangement, and detected an EWSR1–ATF1 fusion transcript.

Conclusions

A thoracic location of AFH has not been reported until very recently, and shares a differential diagnosis with diverse neoplasms, including spindle cell carcinoma and low‐grade sarcoma. We describe the first reported case of thoracic AFH arising in a large vessel, and highlight distinctive histological and molecular features.
Nuclear relocation of STAT6 reliably predicts NAB2–STAT6 fusion for the diagnosis of solitary fibrous tumour
Authors: Koelsche Christian , Schweizer Leonille , Renner Marcus , Warth Arne , Jones David T W , Sahm Felix , Reuss David E , Capper David , Knösel Thomas , Schulz Birte , Petersen Iver , Ulrich Alexis , Renker Eva Kristin , Lehner Burkhard , Pfister Stefan M , Schirmacher Peter , von Deimling Andreas , Mechtersheimer Gunhild
Published: April 2014

Aims

Nuclear relocation of STAT6 has been shown in tumours with NAB2–STAT6 fusion, and has been proposed as an ancillary marker for the diagnosis of solitary fibrous tumours (SFTs). The aim of this study was to verify the utility of STAT6 immunohistology in diagnosing SFT.

Methods and results

A total of 689 formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tumours comprising 35 pleural SFTs and 654 other mesenchymal tumours were investigated for STAT6 expression using immunohistochemistry. Nine dedifferentiated liposarcomas (DDLSs) and five SFTs were also examined for the presence of NAB2–STAT6 fusion at the protein level using the proximity ligation assay (PLA), and for copy number variants (CNVs) with the Illumina Infinium Human Methylation450 array. Thirty‐four of 35 SFTs showed strong nuclear STAT6 expression. Furthermore, five of 68 DDLSs, two of 130 undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas and one of 63 cases of nodular fasciitis showed moderate to strong nuclear STAT6 expression. The PLA indicated the presence of NAB2–STAT6 fusion protein in SFTs, but signal was also detected in some DDLSs. Copy number analysis showed an overall low frequency of chromosomal imbalances in SFTs, but complex karyotypes in DDLSs, including amplification of STAT6 and MDM2 loci.

Conclusions

The detection of nuclear relocation of STAT6 with immunohistochemistry is a characteristic of SFTs, and may serve as a diagnostic marker that indicates NAB2–STAT6 fusion and helps to discriminate SFTs from histological mimics.
Synergies between site protection and agri‐environment schemes for the conservation of waders on lowland wet grasslands
Authors: Smart Jennifer , Wotton Simon R. , Dillon Ian A. , Cooke Andrew I. , Diack Iain , Drewitt Allan L. , Grice Philip V. , Gregory Richard D.
Published: April 2014

Two conservation strategies have been put in place in Europe to address precipitous population declines of wading birds that breed on lowland wet grasslands. These are site protection and agri‐environment schemes (AESs) and the two are rarely compared, or their synergy assessed. Increasingly, efforts to recover populations of previously widespread species follow a landscape‐scale approach whereby habitat improvement takes place at key sites through partially overlapping protected area management and AESs. To investigate whether site protection and AESs improve the conservation status of breeding waders and how these interact, we partially repeated a 2002 survey of breeding waders on protected areas (nature reserves and Sites of Special Scientific Interest) and sites with wader‐specific AES options in England in 2009 and 2010. We then assessed the individual and combined effects of these delivery mechanisms on field occupancy, breeding density and population change of four species of declining wader (Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus, Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago, Eurasian Curlew Arquata numenius and Common Redshank Tringa totanus). Although results for Curlew differed from the other species, in general field occupancy was positively influenced by conservation delivery mechanisms, with the highest occupancy and breeding densities on land where site protection was combined with wader‐specific AES options. Field occupancy varied between different types of AES, with higher occupancy associated with higher‐level options in fields, particularly those on nature reserves. Outside nature reserves, the history of AES management did not influence wader populations, but within nature reserves and on fields that gained AES management between 2002 and 2009–2010, populations of Curlew and Snipe were more likely to have persisted and population change in Snipe and Lapwing was more positive. We conclude that the conservation of breeding waders will be most effective when site protection and AES management are combined on the same land. Using limited AES money to support management for breeding waders on, around and between the existing network of protected sites will protect remaining populations while presenting opportunities for population expansion in future.
Effects of flour storage and heat generated during milling on starch, dietary fibre and polyphenols in stoneground flours from two durum‐type wheats
Authors: Di Silvestro Raffaella , Di Loreto Alessandro , Marotti Ilaria , Bosi Sara , Bregola Valeria , Gianotti Andrea , Quinn Robert , Dinelli Giovanni
Published: April 2014

In the perspective of cereal‐based functional food development, the research compared stone watermill and stone mill which differed in the heating generated during grinding (30 and 60 °C) and the effects of storage on the preservation of phytochemicals. After 6‐month storage of flour, a decrease in soluble dietary fibre (loss of 1.9–2.5 g 100 g−1) and bound polyphenols (loss of 6.2–8.5%) was observed, while other wheat grain components remained unvaried. Comparing the milling techniques, stoneground wheat grains (60 °C) showed the highest amylose (34.7–36.9% of total starch) and resistant starch amounts (0.85–1.16% of total starch), which could be of interest for lowering Glycaemic Index. Stoneground KAMUT® starch had higher tendency to be converted into resistant starch and it also showed the higher degree of starch damage, as compared to the durum wheat variety Claudio. The study provided suggestions for modulating the production chain with the aim of supplying added value to wheat‐based products.
Antioxidant properties and phenolic content of sulla (Hedysarum spp.) honeys from Southern Italy
Authors: Gambacorta Emilio , Simonetti Amalia , Garrisi Nunzia , Intaglietta Immacolata , Perna Annamaria
Published: April 2014

The geographical origin greatly influences the qualitative and nutraceutical characteristics of honey. In this study, a total of twenty‐four sulla honeys from eight different geographical areas of Southern Italy have been examined for total phenolic content (Folin–Ciocalteu method), antioxidant activity (FRAP and DPPH assays), colour intensity (ABS450), and identification and quantification of phenolic acids (RP‐HPLC/UV‐VIS method). The total phenolic content ranged from 47.9 (Potentino honeys) to 248.3 mg GAE per kg honey (Penisola Sorrentina honeys). The antioxidant activity ranged from 47.06% (Basso Pollino honeys) to 88.25% (Penisola Sorrentina honeys), and from 98.26 μM Fe (II) (Potentino honeys) to 786.53 μm Fe (II) (Tarantino honeys) for DPPH and FRAP assays, respectively. Major phenolic acids identified in analysed samples were gallic, caffeic and ferulic acids. Correlations between the parameters analysed were statistically significant (P < 0.05). The results of the study showed that the parameters studied are greatly affected by the peculiarities of their production area.
Comparison of nutritional value and microbiological status of new imported fish species on the German market
Authors: Karl Horst , Lehmann Ines , Manthey‐Karl Monika , Meyer Carsten , Ostermeyer Ute
Published: April 2014

Proximate composition, fatty acid profile, other nutritional values and spoilage indicators were examined in the muscle meat of five species: barramundi (Lates calcarifer) from various origins, tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) of different qualities, cobia (Rachycentron canadum) and leather jacket (Aluterus monoceros) from the Pacific Ocean and Patagonian grenadier (Macruronus magellanicus) from South America. Lowest lipid contents (0.4% and 0.8%) were found in leather jacket and cobia. Leather jacket fillets had lowest protein (16.2%) and highest sodium chloride content (4.9%). Concentrations of ∑EPA + DHA were 0.1 g 100 g−1 for tilapia and leather jacket, 0.2 g 100 g−1 for barramundi and cobia and 0.7 g 100 g−1 for Patagonian grenadier. Barramundi and tilapia were characterised by high taurine content (215 and 276 mg 100 g−1 ww.), and cobia had only low levels (41 mg 100 g−1 ww.). Iodine contents were low and selenium levels varied between 303 and 570 μg kg−1 ww. No sign of spoilage was detected.
Antennal uridine diphosphate (UDP)‐glycosyltransferases in a pest insect: diversity and putative function in odorant and xenobiotics clearance
Authors: Bozzolan F. , Siaussat D. , Maria A. , Durand N. , Pottier M.‐A. , Chertemps T. , Maïbèche‐Coisne M.
Published: April 2014

Uridine diphosphate UDP‐glycosyltransferases (UGTs) are detoxification enzymes widely distributed within living organisms. They are involved in the biotransformation of various lipophilic endogenous compounds and xenobiotics, including odorants. Several UGTs have been reported in the olfactory organs of mammals and involved in olfactory processing and detoxification within the olfactory mucosa but, in insects, this enzyme family is still poorly studied. Despite recent transcriptomic analyses, the diversity of antennal UGTs in insects has not been investigated. To date, only three UGT cDNAs have been shown to be expressed in insect olfactory organs. In the present study, we report the identification of eleven putative UGTs expressed in the antennae of the model pest insect Spodoptera littoralis. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that these UGTs belong to five different families, highlighting their structural diversity. In addition, two genes, UGT40R3 and UGT46A6, were either specifically expressed or overexpressed in the antennae, suggesting specific roles in this sensory organ. Exposure of male moths to the sex pheromone and to a plant odorant differentially downregulated the transcription levels of these two genes, revealing for the first time the regulation of insect UGTs by odorant exposure. Moreover, the specific antennal gene UGT46A6 was upregulated by insecticide topical application on antennae, suggesting its role in the protection of the olfactory organ towards xenobiotics. This work highlights the structural and functional diversity of UGTs within this highly specialized tissue.
Clubhouse model of psychiatric rehabilitation: How is recovery reflected in documentation?
Authors: Raeburn Toby , Schmied Virginia , Hungerford Catherine , Cleary Michelle
Published: April 2014

Recovery‐oriented models of psychiatric rehabilitation, such as the Clubhouse model, are an important addendum to the clinical treatment modalities that assist people with chronic and severe mental illness. Several studies have described the subjective experiences of personal recovery of individuals in the clubhouse context, but limited research has been undertaken on how clubhouses have operationalized recovery in practice. The research question addressed in this paper is: How are recovery‐oriented practices reflected in the documentation of a clubhouse? The documents examined included representative samples of key documents produced or utilized by a clubhouse, including public health‐promotion materials and policy and membership documents. Data were subjected to content analysis, supported by the Recovery Promotion Fidelity Scale. The recovery categories identified in the documents included collaboration (27.7%), acceptance and participation (25.3%), quality improvement (18.0%), consumer and staff development (14.5%), and self‐determination (14.5%). These categories show how the clubhouse constructs and represents personal recovery through its documentation. The findings are important in light of the role that documentation can play in influencing communication, relationships, and behaviour within organizations. The findings can also be used to inform future research related to recovery‐oriented practices in clubhouse settings.
Influenza symptoms and their impact on elderly adults: randomised trial of AS03‐adjuvanted or non‐adjuvanted inactivated trivalent seasonal influenza vaccines
Authors: van Essen Gerrit A. , Beran Jiri , Devaster Jeanne‐Marie , Durand Christelle , Duval Xavier , Esen Meral , Falsey Ann R. , Feldman Gregory , Gervais Pierre , Innis Bruce L. , Kovac Martina , Launay Odile , Leroux‐Roels Geert , McElhaney Janet E. , McNeil Shelly , Oujaa Mohammed , Richardus Jan Hendrik , Ruiz‐Palacios Guillermo , Osborne Richard H. , Oostvogels Lidia
Published: April 2014

Background

Patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) are particularly relevant in influenza vaccine trials in the elderly where reduction in symptom severity could prevent illness‐related functional impairment.

Objectives

To evaluate PROs in people aged ≥65 years receiving two different vaccines.

Methods

This was a phase III, randomised, observer‐blind study (NCT00753272) of the AS03‐adjuvanted inactivated trivalent split‐virion influenza vaccine (AS03‐TIV) versus non‐adjuvanted vaccine (TIV). Using the FluiiQ questionnaire, symptom (systemic, respiratory, total) and life impact (activities, emotions, relationships) scores were computed as exploratory endpoints, with minimal important difference (MID) in influenza severity between vaccines considered post‐hoc as >7%. Vaccine efficacy of AS03‐TIV relative to TIV in severe influenza (hospitalisation, complication, most severe one‐third of episodes based on the area under the curve for systemic symptom score) was calculated post‐hoc. The main analyses (descriptive) were conducted in the according‐to‐protocol cohort (n = 280 AS03‐TIV, n = 315 TIV) for influenza confirmed by culture or reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Mean systemic symptom, total symptom and impact on activities scores were lower with AS03‐TIV versus TIV. Mean respiratory symptom, impact on emotions and impact on relationships scores were similar. Influenza tended to be less severe with AS03‐TIV, but the MID was reached only for impact on activities (mean 9·0%). Relative vaccine efficacy in severe influenza was 29·38% (95% CI: 7·60–46·02).

Conclusions

AS03‐TIV had advantages over TIV in impact on systemic symptoms and activities as measured by the FluiiQ in elderly people. Higher efficacy of AS03‐TIV relative to TIV was shown for prevention of severe illness.
Growth and Ionic Content of Quinoa Under Saline Irrigation
Authors: Riccardi M. , Pulvento C. , Lavini A. , d'Andria R. , Jacobsen S.‐E.
Published: April 2014

Drought and salinity are the most important abiotic stresses that affect plant's growth and productivity. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the effect of salt and water deficit on water relations, growth parameters and capacity to accumulate inorganic solutes in quinoa plants. An irrigation experiment was carried out in 2009 and 2010 in the Volturno river plain. Three treatments irrigated with fresh water (Q100, Q50 and Q25) and three irrigated with saline water (Q100S, Q50S and Q25S) were tested. For saline irrigation, water with an electrical conductivity of 22 dS m−1 was used. Actual evapotranspiration (ETa), water productivity (WP), biomass allocation, relative growth rate (RGR), net assimilation rate (NAR), specific leaf area, leaf area ratio and ions accumulation of quinoa plants were evaluated. WP and plant growth were not influenced by saline irrigation, as quinoa plants incorporated salt ions in the tissues (stems, roots, leaves) preserving seed quality. Treatment with a reduction in the irrigation water to 25 % of full irrigated treatment (Q25) caused an increase in WP and a reduced dry matter accumulation in the leaves. Quinoa plants (Q25) were initially negatively affected by severe drought with RGR and NAR reduction, and then, they adapted to it. Quinoa could be considered a drought tolerant crop that adapt photosynthetic rate to compensate for a reduced growth.
Safety and quality of nurse independent prescribing: a national study of experiences of education, continuing professional development clinical governance
Authors: Smith Alesha , Latter Sue , Blenkinsopp Alison
Published: April 2014

Aim

To determine the adequacy of initial nurse independent prescribing education and identify continuing professional development and clinical governance strategies in place for non‐medical prescribing.

Background

In 2006, new legislation in England enabled nurses with an independent prescribing qualification to prescribe, within their competence. In 2006, non‐medical prescribing policies released by the Department of Health outlined the recommendations for education, continuing professional development and governance of non‐medical prescribing; however, there was no evidence on a national scale about the extent of implementation and effectiveness of these strategies.

Design

National surveys of: (i) nurse independent prescribers; and (ii) non‐medical prescribing leaders in England.

Methods

Questionnaire surveys (August 2008–February 2009) covering educational preparation, prescribing practice (nurse independent prescribers) and structures/processes for support and governance (non‐medical prescribing leaders).

Results

Response rates were 65% (976 prescribers) and 52% (87 leaders). Most nurses felt their prescribing course met their learning needs and stated course outcomes and that they had adequate development and support for prescribing to maintain patient safety. Some types of community nurse prescribers had less access to support and development. The prescribing leaders reported lacking systems to ensure continuity of non‐medical prescribing and monitoring patient experience.

Conclusion

Educational programmes of preparation for nurse prescribing were reported to be operating satisfactorily and providing fit‐for‐purpose preparation for the expansion to the scope of nurse independent prescribing. Most clinical governance and risk management strategies for prescribing were in place in primary and secondary care.
Miocene and Pliocene colonization of the Central American Isthmus by the weakly electric fish Brachyhypopomus occidentalis (Hypopomidae, Gymnotiformes)
Authors: Picq Sophie , Alda Fernando , Krahe Rüdiger , Bermingham Eldredge
Published: April 2014

Aim

We present a molecular phylogenetic and biogeographical analysis of Brachyhypopomus occidentalis, one of the few gymnotiform electric fish in Central America, to further understand the colonization and diversification processes of primary freshwater fishes over the Central American Isthmus.

Location

Lower Central America.

Methods

We used Bayesian and maximum‐likelihood phylogenetic reconstructions using mitochondrial [cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and ATP synthase 6 and 8 (ATPase 8/6)] and nuclear (RAG1 and rhodopsin) genes and extensive geographical sampling, together with molecular clock analyses and tests of biogeographical scenarios to assess the timing and mode of dispersal and diversification.

Results

We identified high levels of phylogeographical structure, with a highly divergent lineage composed of individuals from western Atlantic Panama (Bocas), sister to all trans‐Andean South American and Central American lineages. The Pacific slope of Panama showed surprisingly little genetic structure compared with the Atlantic slope. Molecular‐clock and biogeographical analyses support two waves of colonization originating from South America: a first dispersal event in the late Miocene with the Bocas lineage as the only relict, and a second major colonization in the late Pliocene leading to the establishment of B. occidentalis in all central and eastern Panama drainages.

Main conclusions

The genetic structure of B. occidentalis over the Isthmian landscape reflects the progressive, complex and dynamic geological evolution of the region. Our results support multiple colonization events, with an ancient Miocene dispersal event followed by a recent rapid expansion in the late Pliocene, probably facilitated by the final closure of the Isthmus, which provided an important corridor.
Atopic dermatitis in different skin types. What is to know?
Authors: Torrelo A.
Published: April 2014

Atopic dermatitis (AD) affects patients from all over the world, including all races and skin types. Both environmental and genetic factors play a role in influencing the main features of AD in different populations. For example, AD seems to be more prevalent in Black and mixed race populations compared with Whites. Different genetic backgrounds for AD have been demonstrated in European, African and Asian populations. In this article, we will review the various aspects of AD affecting different populations and racial skin types throughout the world.
Tacit Collusion in a One‐Shot Game of Price Competition with Soft Capacity Constraints
Authors: Cabon‐Dhersin Marie‐Laure , Drouhin Nicolas
Published: April 2014

This paper analyzes price competition in the case of two firms operating under constant returns to scale with more than one production factor. Factors are chosen sequentially in a two‐stage game generating a soft capacity constraint and implying a convex short‐term cost function in the second stage of the game. We show that tacit collusion is the only predictable result of the whole game, that is, the unique payoff‐dominant pure strategy Nash equilibrium. Technically, this paper bridges the capacity constraint literature on price competition and that of the convex cost function.
There's No Place Like Home: The Profitability Gap between Headquarters and their Foreign Subsidiaries
Authors: Dischinger Matthias , Knoll Bodo , Riedel Nadine
Published: April 2014

Using data on European firms, this paper provides evidence that an overproportional fraction of multinational group profits accrues with the corporate headquarters. Quantitatively, the estimates suggest that headquarters are by around 25% more profitable than their foreign subsidiaries, whereas this gap tends to decline over time. The effect turns out to be robust against controlling for observed and unobserved heterogeneity between the entities. Analogous (although quantitatively smaller) effects are found for national groups. We discuss various welfare implications of our findings.
Determination of relative age using growth increments of scales as a minimally invasive method in the tropical freshwater Apteronotus leptorhynchus
Authors: Ilieş I. , Traniello I. M. , Sîrbulescu R. F. , Zupanc G. K. H.
Published: April 2014

This study describes a method for the determination of relative age in a tropical teleost, the brown ghost knifefish Apteronotus leptorhynchus. This method is based on identification of the maximum number of scale circuli, which is thought to be associated with the oldest scales, and thus to be the most indicative of the age of a given fish. Relative age can be inferred by relating differences in maximum circulus counts to the average rate of circulus addition, which was estimated at 34 circuli per year in adult fish through oxytetracycline marking. This method shows high inter‐investigator reliability and has a limited effect on fish because of the low number of scales required in order to determine the maximum number of circuli with a sufficiently high confidence level. Analysis of the frequency distribution of the circulus counts revealed periodic patterns that are similar among fish, presumably reflecting the environmental life history of the individuals. Regression analysis and comparison of addition rates showed that scale circulus counts and otolith ring counts are equivalent approaches for age estimation, but scale analysis is superior because of its limited invasiveness and the lower demand in terms of technical skills and expensive instrumentation.
Bidirectional interactions between NOX2‐type NADPH oxidase and the F‐actin cytoskeleton in neuronal growth cones
Authors: Munnamalai Vidhya , Weaver Cory J. , Weisheit Corinne E. , Venkatraman Prahatha , Agim Zeynep Sena , Quinn Mark T. , Suter Daniel M.
Published: April 2014

NADPH oxidases are important for neuronal function but detailed subcellular localization studies have not been performed. Here, we provide the first evidence for the presence of functional NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2)‐type complex in neuronal growth cones and its bidirectional relationship with the actin cytoskeleton. NADPH oxidase inhibition resulted in reduced F‐actin content, retrograde F‐actin flow, and neurite outgrowth. Stimulation of NADPH oxidase via protein kinase C activation increased levels of hydrogen peroxide in the growth cone periphery. The main enzymatic NADPH oxidase subunit NOX2/gp91phox localized to the growth cone plasma membrane and showed little overlap with the regulatory subunit p40phox. p40phox itself exhibited colocalization with filopodial actin bundles. Differential subcellular fractionation revealed preferential association of NOX2/gp91phox and p40phox with the membrane and the cytoskeletal fraction, respectively. When neurite growth was evoked with beads coated with the cell adhesion molecule apCAM, we observed a significant increase in colocalization of p40phox with NOX2/gp91phox at apCAM adhesion sites. Together, these findings suggest a bidirectional functional relationship between NADPH oxidase activity and the actin cytoskeleton in neuronal growth cones, which contributes to the control of neurite outgrowth.

image

We have previously shown that reactive oxygen species (ROS) are critical for actin organization and dynamics in neuronal growth cones as well as neurite outgrowth. Here, we report that the cytosolic subunit p40phox of the NOX2‐type NADPH oxidase complex is partially associated with F‐actin in neuronal growth cones, while ROS produced by this complex regulates F‐actin dynamics and neurite growth. These findings provide evidence for a bidirectional relationship between NADPH oxidase activity and the actin cytoskeleton in neuronal growth cones.
A multi‐scale structural study of the porcine anterior cruciate ligament tibial enthesis
Authors: Zhao Lei , Thambyah Ashvin , Broom Neil D.
Published: April 2014

Like the human anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the porcine ACL also has a double bundle structure and several biomechanical studies using this model have been carried out to show the differential effect of these two bundles on macro‐level knee joint function. It is hypothesised that if the different bundles of the porcine ACL are mechanically distinct in function, then a multi‐scale anatomical characterisation of their individual enthesis will also reveal significant differences in structure between the bundles. Twenty‐two porcine knee joints were cleared of their musculature to expose the intact ACL following which ligament–bone samples were obtained. The samples were fixed in formalin followed by decalcification with formic acid. Thin sections containing the ligament insertion into the tibia were then obtained by cryosectioning and analysed using differential interference contrast (DIC) optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). At the micro‐level, the anteromedial (AM) bundle insertion at the tibia displayed a significant deep‐rooted interdigitation into bone, while for the posterolateral (PL) bundle the fibre insertions were less distributed and more focal. Three sub‐types of enthesis were identified in the ACL and related to (i) bundle type, (ii) positional aspect within the insertion, and (iii) specific bundle function. At the nano‐level the fibrils of the AM bundle were significantly larger than those in the PL bundle. The modes by which the AM and PL fibrils merged with the bone matrix fibrils were significantly different. A biomechanical interpretation of the data suggests that the porcine ACL enthesis is a specialized, functionally graded structural continuum, adapted at the micro‐to‐nano scales to serve joint function at the macro level.
Avoidance of sun exposure is a risk factor for all‐cause mortality: results from the Melanoma in Southern Sweden cohort
Authors: Lindqvist P. G. , Epstein E. , Landin‐Olsson M. , Ingvar C. , Nielsen K. , Stenbeck M. , Olsson H.
Published: April 2014

Background

Sunlight exposure and fair skin are major determinants of human vitamin D production, but they are also risk factors for cutaneous malignant melanoma (MM). There is epidemiological evidence that all‐cause mortality is related to low vitamin D levels.

Methods

We assessed the avoidance of sun exposure as a risk factor for all‐cause mortality for 29 518 Swedish women in a prospective 20‐year follow‐up of the Melanoma in Southern Sweden (MISS) cohort. Women were recruited from 1990 to 1992 and were aged 25 to 64 years at the start of the study. We obtained detailed information at baseline on their sun exposure habits and potential confounders. Multivariable flexible parametric survival analysis was applied to the data.

Results

There were 2545 deaths amongst the 29 518 women who responded to the initial questionnaire. We found that all‐cause mortality was inversely related to sun exposure habits. The mortality rate amongst avoiders of sun exposure was approximately twofold higher compared with the highest sun exposure group, resulting in excess mortality with a population attributable risk of 3%.

Conclusion

The results of this study provide observational evidence that avoiding sun exposure is a risk factor for all‐cause mortality. Following sun exposure advice that is very restrictive in countries with low solar intensity might in fact be harmful to women's health.
Three‐dimensional visualization of perlecan‐rich neoplastic stroma induced concurrently with the invasion of oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Maruyama Satoshi , Shimazu Yoshihito , Kudo Tomoo , Sato Kaori , Yamazaki Manabu , Abé Tatsuya , Babkair Hamzah , Cheng Jun , Aoba Takaaki , Saku Takashi
Published: April 2014

Background

We have demonstrated the induction of perlecan‐rich stroma of oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) on and after its start of invasion. However, it remains unknown how such a neoplastic stroma is actually arranged in tumor tissues.

Methods

To this end, tissue microarray samples, in which keratin and perlecan were contrastively labeled by immunohistochemistry, were three‐dimensionally analyzed using digital images and image analysis software to demonstrate the relationship between SCC foci and the perlecan‐positive stromal space or that between carcinoma in situ (CIS) and invasive SCC foci.

Results

The three‐dimensional (3D) reconstruction demonstrated three kinds of perlecan profiles for inside (I) and outside (O) areas of the carcinoma cell focus: mode 1, I+/O−; mode 2, I+/O+; and mode 3, I−/O+. Mode 1 was seen in CIS as well as SCC tumor massifs in the surface part. Mode 2 was seen in small SCC foci, which seemed isolated in 2D sections but were mostly continuous with the tumor massif in 3D reconstructions. Mode 3 was limited to small SCC foci, which were truly segregated from the tumor massif.

Conclusions

The results indicated that the 2D SCC focus isolation could not be regarded as invasion but that the SCC foci surrounded by perlecan‐positive stroma (modes 2 and 3) could be regarded as a more objective measure for invasion of SCC. This is the first 3D tissue‐level demonstration of the neoplastic stroma space induced with oral SCC invasion, the presence of which we have predicted based on our previous 2D and tissue culture evidence.
Maternal Monitoring, Adolescent Disclosure, and Adolescent Adjustment Among Palestinian Refugee Youth in Jordan
Authors: Ahmad Ikhlas , Smetana Judith G. , Klimstra Theo
Published: April 2014

The role of parenting (adolescent‐perceived maternal solicitation of information and control), and child‐driven processes (adolescent disclosure and secrecy) in parental knowledge of adolescents' activities, norm‐breaking, and anxiety were examined among 498 poor Palestinian youth (M = 15 years) living in refugee camps in Jordan. With family relationships and demographic background controlled, greater adolescent disclosure and less secrecy about activities, but also more maternal control and solicitation, were associated with greater maternal knowledge. Greater dispositional secrecy was associated with greater norm‐breaking and generalized anxiety, but parental control and parental solicitation were not. In addition, both gender and maternal control moderated the effects of disclosure on norm‐breaking. Differences between these findings and research with Western samples are discussed.
Birth Cohort and Age Changes in the Self‐Esteem of Chinese Adolescents: A Cross‐Temporal Meta‐Analysis, 1996–2009
Authors: Liu Dong , Xin Ziqiang
Published: April 2014

The present cross‐temporal meta‐analysis involving 68 studies (n = 35,499) found that Chinese adolescents' scores on the Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale decreased substantially from 1996 to 2009. The decline of self‐esteem across birth cohorts was associated with the slide of social connection level of Chinese adolescents. Correlations between self‐esteem and corresponding social indicators like the floating population and divorce rate were significant. Analysis on self‐esteem age differences showed that self‐esteem development in China was different from Western results: self‐esteem scores followed a roughly increasing trend from Grade 7 through Grade 12 with double dip points at Grades 7 and 11.
NEW SPORTS FACILITIES AND RESIDENTIAL HOUSING MARKETS
Authors: Huang Haifang , Humphreys Brad R.
Published: April 2014

Using data from 56 professional sports facilities opened between 1995 and 2008, we find what at first appears to be a substantial effect of new sports facilities on housing markets. The opening of a new facility is associated with an increase in residential mortgage applications in nearby areas of about 20 percent. However, much of the differential is due to facility location. The new facilities locate in areas which grew faster even if they were not near a new facility. Based on regressions using census‐tract level data, we find that conditioning on local income and poverty rates reduces the effect by more than a half, suggesting that characteristics of locations drive much the increase on mortgage applications associated with new sports facilities.
Ecological assessments with algae: a review and synthesis
Authors: Stevenson Jan
Published: April 2014

Algae have been used for a century in environmental assessments of water bodies and are now used in countries around the world. This review synthesizes recent advances in the field around a framework for environmental assessment and management that can guide design of assessments, applications of phycology in assessments, and refinements of those applications to better support management decisions. Algae are critical parts of aquatic ecosystems that power food webs and biogeochemical cycling. Algae are also major sources of problems that threaten many ecosystems goods and services when abundances of nuisance and toxic taxa are high. Thus, algae can be used to indicate ecosystem goods and services, which complements how algal indicators are also used to assess levels of contaminants and habitat alterations (stressors). Understanding environmental managers' use of algal ecology, taxonomy, and physiology can guide our research and improve its application. Environmental assessments involve characterizing ecological condition and diagnosing causes and threats to ecosystems goods and services. Recent advances in characterizing condition include site‐specific models that account for natural variability among habitats to better estimate effects of humans. Relationships between algal assemblages and stressors caused by humans help diagnose stressors and establish targets for protection and restoration. Many algal responses to stressors have thresholds that are particularly important for developing stakeholder consensus for stressor management targets. Future research on the regional‐scale resilience of algal assemblages, the ecosystem goods and services they provide, and methods for monitoring and forecasting change will improve water resource management.
Relationship between xerostomia and gingival condition in young adults
Authors: Mizutani S. , Ekuni D. , Tomofuji T. , Azuma T. , Kataoka K. , Yamane M. , Iwasaki Y. , Morita M.
Published: April 2014

Background and Objective

Xerostomia is a subjective symptom of dryness in the mouth. Although a correlation between xerostomia and oral conditions in the elderly has been reported, there are few such studies in the young adults. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship of xerostomia with the gingival condition in university students.

Material and Methods

A total of 2077 students (1202 male subjects and 875 female subjects), 18–24 years of age, were examined. The disease activity and severity of the gingival condition were assessed as the percentage of teeth with bleeding on probing (%BOP) and the presence of teeth with probing pocket depth of ≥ 4 mm, respectively. Additional information on xerostomia, oral health behaviors, coffee/tea intake and nasal congestion was collected via a questionnaire. Path analysis was used to test pathways from xerostomia to the gingival condition.

Results

One‐hundred and eighty‐three (8.8%) students responded that their mouths frequently or always felt dry. Xerostomia was related to %BOP and dental plaque formation, but was not related to the presence of probing pocket depth ≥ 4 mm. In the structural model, xerostomia was related to dental plaque formation (p < 0.01), and a lower level of dental plaque formation was associated with a lower %BOP. Xerostomia was associated with coffee/tea intake (p < 0.01) and nasal congestion (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Xerostomia was indirectly related to gingival disease activity through the accumulation of dental plaque. Nasal congestion and coffee/tea intake also affected xerostomia. These findings suggest that xerostomia should be considered in screening for gingivitis risk in young adults.
History of the Triticeae Symposia
Authors: BARKWORTH Mary E. , von BOTHMER Roland
Published: April 2014

The International Triticeae Symposia were initiated to encourage scientists working on different aspects of the Triticeae to share information and examine the distant relatives of its cereal species. There have now been seven symposia, each in a different country. The scope of these symposia is briefly reviewed. The merits of the symposium series are identified as their interdisciplinary nature and small size.
Testosterone Supplementation and Sexual Function: A Meta-Analysis Study
Authors: Corona Giovanni , Isidori Andrea M. , Buvat Jaques , Aversa Antonio , Rastrelli Giulia , Hackett Geoff , Rochira Vincenzo , Sforza Alessandra , Lenzi Andrea , Mannucci Edoardo , Maggi Mario
Published: April 2014

Introduction

The role of testosterone supplementation (TS) as a treatment for male sexual dysfunction remains questionable.

Aim

The aim of this study was to attempt a meta-analysis on the effect of TS on male sexual function and its synergism with the use of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor (PDE5i).

Methods

An extensive Medline, Embase, and Cochrane search was performed.

Main Outcome Measures

All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effect of TS vs. placebo or the effect of TS as add on to PDE5is on sexual function were included. Data extraction was performed independently by two of the authors (A. M. Isidori and G. Corona), and conflicts resolved by the third investigator (M. Maggi).

Results

Out of 1,702 retrieved articles, 41 were included in the study. In particular, 29 compared TS vs. placebo, whereas 12 trials evaluated the effect of TS as add on to PDE5is. TS is able to significantly ameliorate erectile function and to improve other aspects of male sexual response in hypogonadal patients. However, the presence of possible publication bias was detected. After applying “trim and fill” method, the positive effect of TS on erectile function and libido components retained significance only in RCTs partially or completely supported by pharmaceutical companies (confidence interval [0.04–0.53] and [0.12; 0.52], respectively). In addition, we also report that TS could be associated with an improvement in PDE5i outcome. These results were not confirmed in placebo-controlled studies. The majority of studies, however, included mixed eugonadal/hypogonadal subjects, thus imparting uncertainty to the statistical analyses.

Conclusions

TS plays positive effects on male sexual function in hypogonadal subjects. The role of TS is uncertain in men who are not clearly hypogonadal. The apparent difference between industry-supported and independent studies could depend on trial design more than on publication bias. New RCTs exploring the effect of TS in selected cases of PDE5i failure that persistently retain low testosterone levels are advisable.