bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The therapeutic potential of bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stromal cells on hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Bayo Juan , Marrodán Mariano , Aquino Jorge B. , Silva Marcelo , García Mariana G. , Mazzolini Guillermo
Published: October 2013

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are more often obtained from adult and extraembryonic tissues, with the latter sources being likely better from a therapeutic perspective. MSCs show tropism towards inflamed or tumourigenic sites. Mechanisms involved in MSC recruitment into tumours are comprehensively analysed, including chemoattractant signalling axes, endothelial adhesion and transmigration. In addition, signals derived from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumour microenvironment and their influence in MSC tropism and tumour recruitment are dissected, as well as the present controversy regarding their influence on tumour growth and/or metastasis. Finally, evidences available on the use of MSCs and other selected progenitor/stem cells as vehicles of antitumourigenic genes are discussed. A better knowledge of the mechanisms involved in progenitor/stem cell recruitment to HCC tumours is proposed in order to enhance their tumour targeting which may result in improvements in cell‐based gene therapy strategies.
Comparative study ofSoxRactivation by redox‐active compounds
Authors: Singh Atul K. , Shin Jung‐Ho , Lee Kang‐Lok , Imlay James A. , Roe Jung‐Hye
Published: October 2013

SoxRfromEscherichia coliand related enterobacteria is activated by a broad range of redox‐active compounds through oxidation or nitrosylation of its [2Fe–2S] cluster. ActivatedSoxRthen inducesSoxS, which subsequently activates more than 100 genes in response. In contrast, non‐entericSoxRsdirectly activate their target genes in response to redox‐active compounds that include endogenously produced metabolites. We compared the responsiveness ofSoxRsfromStreptomyces coelicolor(ScSoxR),Pseudomonas aeruginosa(PaSoxR) andE. coli(EcSoxR), all expressed inS. coelicolor, towards natural or synthetic redox‐active compounds.EcSoxRresponded to all compounds examined, whereasScSoxRwas insensitive to oxidants such as paraquat (Eh−440 mV) and menadione sodium bisulphite (Eh−45 mV) and toNOgenerators.PaSoxRwas insensitive only to someNOgenerators. Whole‐cellEPRanalysis ofSoxRsexpressed inE. colirevealed that the [2Fe–2S]1+ofScSoxRwas not oxidizable by paraquat, differing fromEcSoxRandPaSoxR. The mid‐point redox potential of purifiedScSoxRwas determined to be −185 ± 10 mV, higher by ∼ 100 mV than those ofEcSoxRandPaSoxR, supporting its limited response to paraquat. The overall sensitivity profile indicates that both redox potential and kinetic reactivity determine the differential responses ofSoxRstowards various oxidants.
Advances in cetacean telemetry: A review of single‐pin transmitter attachment techniques on small cetaceans and development of a new satellite‐linked transmitter design
Authors: Balmer Brian C. , Wells Randall S. , Howle Laurens E. , Barleycorn Aaron A. , McLellan William A. , Ann Pabst D. , Rowles Teri K. , Schwacke Lori H. , Townsend Forrest I. , Westgate Andrew J. , Zolman Eric S.
Published: October 2013

Electronic tags have proven to be valuable tools in assessing small cetacean movement and behavior. However, problems associated with tag size and attachment have limited duration and damaged dorsal fins. These outcomes have motivated researchers to develop a new satellite‐linked tag design that reduces detrimental effects to tagged animals, while increasing transmission durations. The goals of this study were to review previous studies that deployed single‐pin transmitters and determine factors that influence transmission duration. Then, test these factors utilizing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models to identify an optimal single‐pin satellite‐linked tag design, and evaluate this prototype through field studies. A review of four projects, which deployed 77 single‐pin radio tags, determined that tags attached along the lower third of the dorsal fin and approximately 33 mm from the trailing edge resulted in longer transmission durations and reduced negative impacts to the dorsal fin. Based upon these results and CFD modeling, prototype, single‐pin satellite‐linked tags (n = 25) transmitted for 163 ± 22 d (mean ± 95% CI) which greatly exceeded transmissions for previous small cetacean telemetry studies. These results suggest that the newly developed single‐pin satellite‐linked tag design strikes a balance between reducing impacts to the individual while maximizing transmissions.
Adaptation to spring heat and drought in northeastern Spanish Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Wolfe Marnin D. , Tonsor Stephen J.
Published: October 2013

The extent to which a species' environmental range reflects adaptive differentiation remains an open question. Environmental gradients can lead to adaptive divergence when differences in stressors among sites along the gradient place conflicting demands on the balance of stress responses. The extent to which this is accomplished through stress tolerance vs stress avoidance is also an open question.

We present results from a controlled environment study of 48 lineages of Arabidopsis thaliana collected along a gradient in northeastern Spain across which temperatures increase and precipitation decreases with decreasing elevation. We tested the extent to which clinal adaptive divergence in heat and drought is explained through tolerance and avoidance traits by subjecting plants to a dynamic growth chamber cycle of increasing heat and drought stress analogous to low elevation spring in northeastern Spain.

Lineages collected at low elevation were the most fit and fitness scaled with elevation of origin. Higher fitness was associated with earlier bolting, greater early allocation to increased numbers of inflorescences, reduction in rosette leaf photosynthesis and earlier fruit ripening.

We propose that this is a syndrome of avoidance through early flowering accompanied by restructuring of the organism that adapts A. thaliana to low‐elevation Mediterranean climates.
Crossover rate between homologous chromosomes and interference are regulated by the addition of specific unpaired chromosomes in Brassica
Authors: Suay Loreto , Zhang Deshuang , Eber Frédérique , Jouy Hélène , Lodé Maryse , Huteau Virginie , Coriton Olivier , Szadkowski Emmanuel , Leflon Martine , Martin Olivier C. , Falque Matthieu , Jenczewski Eric , Paillard Sophie , Chèvre Anne‐Marie
Published: October 2013

Recombination is a major mechanism generating genetic diversity, but the control of the crossover rate remains a key question. In Brassica napus (AACC, 2n = 38), we can increase the homologous recombination between A genomes in AAC hybrids. Hypotheses for this effect include the number of C univalent chromosomes, the ratio between univalents and bivalents and, finally, which of the chromosomes are univalents.

To test these hypotheses, we produced AA hybrids with zero, one, three, six or nine additional C chromosomes and four different hybrids carrying 2n = 32 and 2n = 35 chromosomes. The genetic map lengths for each hybrid were established to compare their recombination rates.

The rates were 1.4 and 2.7 times higher in the hybrids having C6 or C9 alone than in the control (0C). This enhancement reached 3.1 and 4.1 times in hybrids carrying six and nine C chromosomes, and it was also higher for each pair of hybrids carrying 2n = 32 or 2n = 35 chromosomes, with a dependence on which chromosomes remained as univalents.

We have shown, for the first time, that the presence of one chromosome, C9, affects significantly the recombination rate and reduces crossover interference. This result will have fundamental implications on the regulation of crossover frequency.
TAILORING POINT COUNTS FOR INFERENCE ABOUT AVIAN DENSITY: DEALING WITH NONDETECTION AND AVAILABILITY
Authors: JOHNSON FRED A. , DORAZIO ROBERT M. , CASTELLÓN TRACI D. , MARTIN JULIEN , GARCIA JAY O. , NICHOLS JAMES D.
Published: October 2013

Point counts are commonly used for bird surveys, but interpretation is ambiguous unless there is an accounting for the imperfect detection of individuals. We show how repeated point counts, supplemented by observation distances, can account for two aspects of the counting process: (1) detection of birds conditional on being available for observation and (2) the availability of birds for detection given presence. We propose a hierarchical model that permits the radius in which birds are available for detection to vary with forest stand age (or other relevant habitat features), so that the number of birds available at each location is described by a Poisson‐gamma mixture. Conditional on availability, the number of birds detected at each location is modeled by a beta‐binomial distribution. We fit this model to repeated point count data of Florida scrub‐jays and found evidence that the area in which birds were available for detection decreased with increasing stand age. Estimated density was 0.083 (95%CI: 0.060–0.113) scrub‐jays/ha. Point counts of birds have a number of appealing features. Based on our findings, however, an accounting for both components of the counting process may be necessary to ensure that abundance estimates are comparable across time and space. Our approach could easily be adapted to other species and habitats.
Leveraging paraprofessionals and family strengths to improve coverage and penetration of nutrition and early child development services
Authors: Tomlinson Mark , Rahman Atif , Sanders David , Maselko Joanna , Rotheram‐Borus Mary Jane
Published: October 2013

Children need to be protected in intergenerational networks, with parents who have positive mood, resources to feed their children, and skills to promote early childhood development (ECD). Globally, more than 200 million children are raised annually without these resources. This article reviews the potential contributions of increasing coverage and penetration of services for these children, challenges to achieving penetration of services in high‐risk families, opportunities created by bundling multiple services within one provider, potential leveraging of paraprofessionals to deliver care, and mobilizing communities to support children in households at high risk for negative outcomes. We end with a number of suggestions for how to ensure the equitable scale‐up of integrated ECD and nutrition services that take into account current global priorities, as well as coverage and penetration of services.
Area Disparities in Britain: Understanding the Contribution of People vs. Place Through Variance Decompositions
Authors: Gibbons Stephen , Overman Henry G. , Pelkonen Panu
Published: October 2013

This article considers methods for decomposing wage variation into individual and group specific components. We discuss the merits of these methods, which are applicable to variance decomposition problems generally. The relative magnitudes of the measures depend on the underlying variances and covariances, and we discuss how to interpret them, and how they might relate to structural parameters of interest. We show that a clear‐cut division of variation into area and individual components is impossible. An empirical application to the British labour market demonstrates that labour market area effects contribute very little to the overall variation of wages in Britain.
Prevalence of oral white lesions due to qat chewing among women in Yemen
Authors: Schmidt‐Westhausen AM , Al Sanabani J , Al‐Sharabi AK
Published: October 2013

Objectives

To investigate oral mucosal white lesions due to qat chewing among Yemeni women and their possible confounders (tobacco, water‐pipe).

Patients and Methods

In a cross‐sectional hospital study, 162 healthy women were divided into 109 qat chewers and 53 non‐qat chewers. Inclusion criteria were as follows: ≥20 years of age, chewing qat habitually ≥5 years on one side. Women were interviewed about tobacco/water‐pipe use and examined for oral mucosal lesions.

Results

Among chewers, white lesions were recorded in 82/109 (75.2%) at the chewing site. Lesions on the opposite side were recorded among 6/109 (5.5%) and among 7/53 (13.2%) non‐chewers. Lesions reported among chewers were correlated with the side of chewing and with longer duration of the habit. The difference in the prevalence of white lesions present between cases and controls was significant (P < 0.000). When white lesions were correlated with the durations of chewing and water‐pipe and cigarette smoking, results in terms of chewing were highly significant (P = 0.000) and those in terms of water‐pipe smoking and cigarette smoking were not significant.

Conclusion

Habitual chewing of qat fibres by Yemeni women over decades caused mucosal white lesions recorded on the chewing side irrespective of additional noxae as tobacco and water‐pipe smoking.
Reciprocal effects of Interferon‐γ and IL‐4 on differentiation to osteoclast‐like cells by RANKL or LPS
Authors: Hu Y , Ek‐Rylander B , Wendel M , Andersson G
Published: October 2013

Objective

LPS can induce differentiation to osteoclast‐like cells independent of RANKL. In comparison with RANKL, the effects of Th1 and Th2 cytokines on LPS‐induced osteoclastogenesis have not been extensively studied. In this study, we investigated the effects of IFN‐γ and IL‐4 on RANKL‐ or LPS‐induced osteoclastogenesis.

Materials and methods

RAW 264.7 cells were induced to differentiate into osteoclast‐like cells by RANKL or LPS, in the absence or presence of IFN‐γ or IL‐4. The number of TRAP‐positive, multinucleated (≥ 3 nuclei) cells (MNCs) was counted. mRNA and protein levels of TRAP and cathepsin K were determined by quantitative RT‐PCR and Western immunoblot, respectively. Expression of other genes implicated in osteoclast and macrophage differentiation and inflammation was also quantitated and was subsequently assessed in bone marrow‐derived macrophages (BMMs). Phagocytic capacity of differentiated RAW264.7 was investigated by the uptake of pHrodo S. aureus bioparticles conjugates.

Results

In contrast to the RANKL‐treated cell population that gained more macrophage‐like properties at the level of gene and protein expression as well as phagocytosis in the presence of IFN‐γ or IL‐4, the LPS‐induced population gained more osteoclast‐like properties by the addition of the same factors.

Conclusion

These data suggest that the adaptive immune system, through either Th1 or Th2 cytokines, is able to modify the differentiation process of osteoclasts in inflammatory situations. Moreover, the study provides an example of different regulation of osteoclast differentiation during physiological and inflammatory conditions.
Egg‐white‐specific IgA and IgA2 antibodies in egg‐allergic children: Is there a role in tolerance induction?
Authors: Konstantinou George N. , Nowak‐Węgrzyn Anna , Bencharitiwong Ramon , Bardina Luda , Sicherer Scott H. , Sampson Hugh A.
Published: October 2013

Background

Decreased serum food‐specific IgA antibodies have been associated with allergic disease in cross‐sectional, case–control studies. The purpose of this study was to prospectively compare egg‐white‐(EW)‐specific IgA and IgA2 levels between egg‐allergic children and children tolerating egg.

Methods

Seventeen egg‐allergic children were followed prospectively. Total IgA, EW‐specific IgA, and EW‐specific IgA2 levels were measured in their sera with a sensitive ELISA. As negative controls were used children with no previous history of egg allergy. Egg‐allergic children with or without concomitant milk allergy were evaluated as additional controls with measurement of casein‐specific IgA.

Results

After 2.5 ± 0.9 yrs, nine out of the 17 allergic children became tolerant and eight remained allergic to baked egg. Baseline EW‐specific IgA2 levels were significantly lower in the egg‐allergic subjects (median 23.9 ng/ml) compared with the negative control subjects (99.4 ng/ml) and increased significantly by 28% over the study time period in eight out of the nine allergic children that became tolerant to baked egg. There was no significant change over time in EW‐specific IgA in any of the study groups. Non‐milk‐allergic subjects with concomitant egg allergy had almost threefold higher casein‐specific IgA levels than the milk‐ and egg‐allergic subjects (p = 0.025).

Conclusions

These results suggest a potential role for allergen‐specific IgA2 antibodies in the induction of food tolerance. Furthermore, they support the hypothesis that immature or impaired production of allergen‐specific IgA2 may be associated with the pathophysiology of food allergy, a defect that seems to be selective for the culprit allergen.
Lumbosacral Epiduroscopy Findings Predict Treatment Outcome
Authors: Bosscher Hemmo A. , Heavner James E.
Published: October 2013

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the significance of diagnostic markers obtained through epiduroscopy by evaluating the accuracy of outcome prediction after treatment of epidural pathology using epiduroscopy.

Design

A prospective observational study of 139 patients was performed. Patients with chronic low back and leg pain were included. Of the 150 patients who underwent epiduroscopy in the year 2008 at a US hospital, 139 were available for evaluation at 1 month.

Study

Outcome of treatment was predicted based on direct visual information (hyperemia, vascularity, and fibrosis) and mechanical information (pain to touch, contrast spread, and patency) obtained through epiduroscopy.

Main Outcome Measures

Outcome of treatment was measured at 1 month. Accuracy of prediction of outcome was calculated using contingency tables and odds ratios.

Results

A prediction of outcome was made in 114 of 139 patients (82%). This prediction was correct in 89 of these 114 patients (accuracy of 78%). The sensitivity and specificity of epiduroscopy with respect to the prediction of outcome were 75% and 82%, respectively. These results were statistically significant (P < 0.01).

In 25 of the 139 patients (18%), discrete epidural pathology was not observed. Nine of these 25 patients reported good relief after epiduroscopy. The sensitivity and specificity of epiduroscopy in the diagnosis of epidural pathology were 91% and 39%, respectively. These results were not statistically different (P > 0.1).

Conclusion

Our results show that lumbosacral epiduroscopy predicts outcome of treatment accurately in the majority of patients. This suggests that information obtained through epiduroscopy may carry significant diagnostic and prognostic value.
Genes for resistance to powdery mildew in European winter barley cultivars registered in the Czech Republic and Slovakia to 2010
Authors: Dreiseitl Antonín
Published: October 2013

In central Europe, winter barley is infected by a broader spectrum of pathogens than spring barley. However, the dominant disease on susceptible cultivars is powdery mildew. The objective of this contribution was to postulate resistance genes in cultivars registered in the Czech Republic and Slovakia from 1993 to 2010 using a set of 40 isolates of the barley powdery mildew pathogen. Seedlings of 42 European cultivars were tested, and 15 known resistance genes were postulated namely, Mla6, Mla7, Mla12, Mla13, MlaRu4, Mlg, Mlh, MlLa, Mlra, Ml(Ch), Ml(Dr2), Ml(IM9), Ml(Lo), Ml(Ru2) and Ml(St). Two unknown resistances were detected, one in cultivars Gilberta, Mirko and Polana, and another in Ricus. Three cultivars (Campanile, Carrero and Mirko) were heterogeneous for mildew response. The most frequent genes were Mlra and Mlh, which were found in 25 and 14 cultivars, respectively. Genes located at the Mla locus were present in 14 cultivars; 11 of these cultivars carried Mla6. No resistance gene was detected in Hanna. Previously unknown resistances will be further characterized.
Modelled hydraulic redistribution by sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) matches observed data only after including night‐time transpiration
Authors: NEUMANN REBECCA B. , CARDON ZOE G. , TESHERA‐LEVYE JENNIFER , ROCKWELL FULTON E. , ZWIENIECKI MACIEJ A. , HOLBROOK N. MICHELE
Published: October 2013

The movement of water from moist to dry soil layers through the root systems of plants, referred to as hydraulic redistribution (HR), occurs throughout the world and is thought to influence carbon and water budgets and ecosystem functioning. The realized hydrologic, biogeochemical and ecological consequences of HR depend on the amount of redistributed water, whereas the ability to assess these impacts requires models that correctly capture HR magnitude and timing. Using several soil types and two ecotypes of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) in split‐pot experiments, we examined how well the widely used HR modelling formulation developed by Ryel et al. matched experimental determination of HR across a range of water potential driving gradients. H. annuus carries out extensive night‐time transpiration, and although over the last decade it has become more widely recognized that night‐time transpiration occurs in multiple species and many ecosystems, the original Ryel et al. formulation does not include the effect of night‐time transpiration on HR. We developed and added a representation of night‐time transpiration into the formulation, and only then was the model able to capture the dynamics and magnitude of HR we observed as soils dried and night‐time stomatal behaviour changed, both influencing HR.
Fatty acid composition remains stable across trophic levels in a gall wasp community
Authors: VISSER BERTANNE , VAN DOOREMALEN COBY , VÁZQUEZ RUIZ ALBA , ELLERS JACINTHA
Published: October 2013

Acquiring sufficient nutrients is particularly important for insects that are unable to synthesize certain nutrient types de novo, as is the case for numerous parasitoid species that do not synthesize lipids. The lipid reserves of parasitoids are acquired from a single host during larval development. This imposes constraints on the quantity and quality of available lipids. In the present study, the lipid dynamics throughout the trophic cascade are investigated by measuring lipogenic ability, modifications in fatty acid composition and host exploitation efficiency in species at different trophic positions within the community of parasitoids associated with the gall wasp Diplolepis rosae L. (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae). The results obtained show that lipid levels remain stable or decline after feeding in all species, indicating that none of the wasps synthesize lipids. Fatty acid composition is highly similar between the gall wasp, parasitoid and hyperparasitoid species, with the exception of the parasitoid Orthopelma mediator Thunberg (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae). The divergence of fatty acid composition in O. mediator suggests that this species is able to modify its fatty acid composition after the consumption of host lipids. The efficiency of exploitation of host resource, in terms of dry body mass acquired, varies among the species (41–70%), although it is high overall compared with the efficiencies reported in other animals. Hence, for parasitoid wasps that lack lipid synthesis capabilities, the efficiency of host exploitation is high and fatty acids are consumed directly from the host without modification, leading to stable fatty acid compositions throughout the trophic cascade.
A Qualitative Descriptive Study of Risk Reduction for Coronary Disease among the Hong Kong Chinese
Authors: Chan Choi Wan , Lopez Violeta
Published: October 2013

Objectives

Achieving optimal control and reduction in coronary heart disease (CHD) risks in Hong Kong (HK) remains significant and requires exploring. This article addresses the ability to reduce CHD risks among the HK Chinese.

Design and Sample

Through secondary analysis, a qualitative descriptive design using focus group interviews and content analysis were adopted. Older and younger adults were invited for the study.

Measures

An interview schedule was used to guide discussions during focus group interviews.

Results

Four categories emerged from the data: planning of health actions, control of risk‐reducing behavior, perceived opportunities for understanding CHD, and chest pain appraisal.

Conclusions

Local culture and population needs play a central role in disease perception and prevention. The findings are essential to target strategies for initiating health acts for younger adults and establish public education resources that underscore understanding of CHD risk, symptom recognition, and disease management, particularly among those middle‐aged and older people at high risk and with the diseased populations.
Phototherapy approaches in treatment of oral lichen planus
Authors: Pavlic Verica , Vujic‐Aleksic Vesna
Published: October 2013

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic immunologic mucocutaneous inflammatory disease of the oral mucosa. Since the etiopathology of OLP is idiopathic, treatment is usually symptomatic, therefore showing low predictability. Currently, topical corticosteroids are widely accepted as the standard therapy. However, for patients unresponsive to standard therapy for OLP, new treatment modalities have been sought. Phototherapy has recently been accepted as an alternative or adjunctive treatment modality for many conditions in medicine and dentistry. The aim of this study is to present the advantages and disadvantages of the different kinds of phototherapy used in treatment of OLP (UV phototherapy, lasers, and photodynamic therapy). The main outcome measures compared were improvement of signs and symptoms and OLP recurrence. Although some phototherapy techniques in the selected articles have demonstrated limited effects, there is no solid basis in evidence for the effectiveness of any of these treatments for OLP. Therefore, further research, especially randomized controlled clinical trials with long‐term follow‐up, is needed to give any solid recommendation on the use of phototherapy in the field of OLP treatment.
Eotaxin‐1 is involved in parasite clearance during chronic filarial infection
Authors: Gentil K. , Lentz C. S. , Rai R. , Muhsin M. , Kamath A. D. , Mutluer Ö. , Specht S. , Hübner M. P. , Hoerauf A.
Published: October 2013

Eosinophil migration as key feature of helminth infection is increased during infection with filarial nematodes. In a mouse model of filariasis, we investigated the role of the eosinophil‐attracting chemokine Eotaxin‐1 on disease outcome. BALB/c and Eotaxin‐1−/− mice were infected with the rodent filaria Litomosoides sigmodontis, and parasitic parameters, cellular migration to the site of infection, and cellular responsiveness were investigated. We found increased parasite survival but unaffected eosinophil migration to the site of infection in Eotaxin‐1−/− mice. Expression of CD80 and CD86 was reduced on eosinophils from Eotaxin‐1−/− mice after in vitro TLR2 stimulation and exposure to filarial antigen, respectively, suggesting a potential reduced activation state of eosinophils in Eotaxin‐1 deficient mice. We further demonstrated that macrophages from Eotaxin‐1−/− mice produce decreased amounts of IL‐6 in vitro, a cytokine found to be associated with parasite containment, suggesting possible mechanisms by which Eotaxin‐1 regulates activation of inflammatory cells and thus parasite survival.
The Contribution of Preterm Birth and Intrauterine Growth Restriction to Infant Mortality in Tanzania
Authors: Sania Ayesha , Spiegelman Donna , Rich‐Edwards Janet , Okuma James , Kisenge Rodrick , Msamanga Gernard , Urassa Willy , Fawzi Wafaie W.
Published: October 2013

Background

Our objectives were to examine the associations of neonatal and infant mortality with preterm birth and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and to estimate the partial population attributable risk per cent (pPAR%) of neonatal and infant mortality due to preterm birth and IUGR.

Methods

Participants were HIV‐negative pregnant women and their infants enrolled in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Gestational age calculated from date of last menstrual period was used to define preterm, and small for gestational age (SGA) was used as proxy for IUGR. Survival of infants was ascertained at monthly follow‐up visits. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the associations of preterm and SGA with neonatal and infant mortality.

Results

Study included 7225 singletons, of whom 15% were preterm and 21% were SGA; majority of preterm or SGA babies had birthweight ≥2500 g. Compared to term and appropriately sized babies (AGA), relative risks (RR) of neonatal mortality among preterm‐AGA was 2.6 [95% CI 1.8, 3.9], RR among term‐SGA was 2.3 [95% CI 1.6, 3.3], and the highest risk was among the preterm‐SGA babies (RR 15.1 [95% CI 8.2, 27.7]). Risk associated with preterm was elevated throughout the infancy, and risk associated with SGA was elevated during the neonatal period only. The pPAR% of neonatal mortality for preterm was 22% [95% CI 17%, 26%] and for SGA it was 26% [95% CI 16%, 36%].

Conclusions

Preterm and SGA birth substantially increased the risk of mortality. Interventions for prevention and management of these conditions are likely to reduce of infant mortality in Tanzania.
Location‐Specific Metrics for Rapidly Estimating the Abundance and Condition of the Threatened Coral Acropora cervicornis
Authors: Huntington Brittany E. , Miller Margaret W.
Published: October 2013

We developed a method for quantifying the abundance of the threatened staghorn coral (Acropora cervicornis) and evaluated the accuracy of commonly used methods to assess colony condition. For small‐ to medium‐sized colonies, we show that colony ellipsoid volume estimated from simple colony dimensions serves as a reliable and efficient proxy for the more time‐consuming, conventional measure of colony total linear extension, and that this predictive relationship varies significantly among extant populations in the Caribbean. We also determined that visual estimates of colony partial mortality closely approximate to true values for colonies with <25% mortality, with in situ estimates outperforming estimates from digital images. These results provide coral reef managers and restoration practitioners with guidance for assessing partial mortality and location‐specific regression models to estimate “amount” of staghorn coral in both extant and restored staghorn populations in Belize, the United States Virgin Islands, and the Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida, U.S.A. As staghorn coral monitoring and restoration efforts continue to expand in the Caribbean, these methods for quickly determining staghorn abundance and condition will directly aid resource managers tasked with monitoring wild populations and tracking restoration success over time.
Asymptotics of the Discrete Chebyshev Polynomials
Authors: Pan J. H. , Wong R.
Published: October 2013

The discrete Chebyshev polynomials are orthogonal with respect to a distribution, which is a step function with jumps one unit at the points , N being a fixed positive integer. By using a double integral representation, we have recently obtained asymptotic expansions for in the double scaling limit, namely, and , where and ; see [8]. In this paper, we continue to investigate the behavior of these polynomials when the parameter b approaches the endpoints of the interval (0, 1). While the case is relatively simple (because it is very much like the case when b is fixed), the case is quite complicated. The discussion of the latter case is divided into several subcases, depending on the quantities n, x, and , and different special functions have been used as approximants, including Airy, Bessel, and Kummer functions.
The Effect of Buttonhole Cannulation vs. Rope‐ladder Technique on Hemodialysis Access Patency
Authors: Chan Micah R. , Shobande Olatokunbo , Vats Hemender , Wakeen Maureen , Meyer Xinliu , Bellingham Janet , Astor Brad C. , Yevzlin Alexander S.
Published: October 2013

The rope‐ladder (RL) technique is the most common technique used for cannulation of arteriovenous fistulae (AVF). Buttonhole cannulation (BHC), or constant‐site technique, is recommended by the National Kidney Foundation's Kidney Disease Outcome Quality Initiative (NKF/KDOQI) vascular access guidelines. We compared outcomes of primary patency, episodes of bacteremia, access blood flow (Qa), and quality of life (QoL) scores between RL and BHC patients. Using a prospectively collected, vascular access database, a total of 45 prevalent dialysis patients using BHC were compared with 38 patients using the RL technique over a median of 12 months (inter‐quartile range: 4–27 months). The two groups did not differ significantly in demographics except that diabetes was more common in those using BHC as compared to rope‐ladder (69% vs. 34%; p = 0.002). Risk factors associated with lack of primary patency were age (hazards ratio [HR] = 1.02 per decade; 95% CI: 1.00–1.03; p = 0.04) and female gender (HR = 1.92; 95% CI: 1.08–3.40; p = 0.03). Use of the buttonhole technique was not associated with improved primary patency (HR = 1.22, 95% CI: 0.65–2.28; p = 0.53). Episodes of bacteremia and mean scores from KDQOL‐36 did not differ significantly between the groups. This study demonstrates for the first time that BHC use is not associated with improved access patency.
Does it matter how I perceive my nation? National symbols, national identification and attitudes toward immigrants
Authors: Finell Eerika , Olakivi Antero , Liebkind Karmela , Lipsanen Jari
Published: October 2013

We examined how the ways of imagining one's own nation relate to the relationship between national identification and individuals’ attitudes towards immigrants. National imagination is studied through two types of national symbols representing the nation in terms of confrontation between groups (i.e., war and sports) and a unique entity (i.e., nature and traditional culture). We found that national identification was positively associated with the degree to which individuals perceived their nation through a historical war and sports, which, in turn, enhanced negative attitudes toward immigrants. Unexpectedly, the degree to which individuals perceived their nation through nature and traditional culture was positively associated with positive intergroup attitudes. The results emphasize that the degree to which individuals perceive their nation through different national symbols is an important factor for understanding intergroup relations.
Powerful Parametric Tests Based on Sum‐Functions of Spacings
Authors: Ekström Magnus
Published: October 2013

Assume that we have a sequence ofnindependent and identically distributed random variables with a continuous distribution functionF, which is specified up to a few unknown parameters. In this paper, tests based on sum‐functions of sample spacings are proposed, and large sample theory of the tests are presented under simple null hypotheses as well as under close alternatives. Tests, which are optimal within this class, are constructed, and it is noted that these tests have properties that closely parallel those of the likelihood ratio test in regular parametric models. Some examples are given, which show that the proposed tests work also in situations where the likelihood ratio test breaks down. Extensions to more general hypotheses are discussed.
Quantification of allergic and irritant patch test reactions using ImageJ
Authors: Ohshima H. , Kinoshita S. , Futagawa M. , Takiwaki H. , Washizaki K. , Ishiko A. , Kanto H.
Published: October 2013

Background/aims

It is often difficult to differentiate between allergic and irritant patch test reactions by visual inspection. The purpose of this study was to test an image analysis‐based method that differentiates between the two reactions by quantifying the degree of erythema at the patch test site.

Methods

A total of 172 Japanese patients were patch‐tested with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and nickel sulfate, followed by digital photography and visual evaluation of the patch test areas by dermatologists at 48 and 72 h. The digital images were converted to erythema index (EI) images by image processing, and changes in ΔEI (the difference in the EI between the patch test site and the adjacent normal skin) values were analyzed.

Results

The ΔEI was significantly increased at 72 h relative to that at 48 h for positive nickel sulfate reactions (P < 0.0001), while no significant difference in the ΔEI was found for SLS reactions.

Conclusion

Using image analysis, allergic patch test reactions may be distinguished from irritant reactions by evaluating the change in the degree of erythema at 48 and 72 h.
Building the Coleoptera tree‐of‐life for >8000 species: composition of public DNA data and fit with Linnaean classification
Authors: BOCAK LADISLAV , BARTON CHRISTOPHER , CRAMPTON‐PLATT ALEX , CHESTERS DOUGLAS , AHRENS DIRK , VOGLER ALFRIED P.
Published: October 2013

The species representation of public databases is growing rapidly and permits increasingly detailed phylogenetic inferences. We present a supermatrix based on all gene sequences of Coleoptera available in Genbank for two nuclear (18S and 28S rRNA) and two mitochondrial (rrnL and cox1) genes. After filtering for unique species names and the addition of ˜2000 unpublished sequences for cox1 and 18S rRNA, the resulting data matrix included 8441 species‐level terminals and 6600 aligned nucleotide positions. The concatenated matrix represents the equivalent of 2.17% of the 390 000 described species of Coleoptera and includes 152 beetle families. The remaining 29 families constitute small lineages with ˜250 known species in total. Taxonomic coverage remains low for several major lineages, including Buprestidae (0.16% of described species), Staphylinidae (1.03%), Tenebrionidae (0.90%) and Cerambycidae (0.58%). The current taxon sampling was strongly biased towards the Northern Hemisphere. Phylogenetic trees obtained from the supermatrix were in very good agreement with the Linnaean classification, in particular at the family level, but lower for the subfamily and lowest for the genus level. The topology supports the basal split of Derodontidae and Scirtoidea from the remaining Polyphaga, and the broad paraphyly of Cucujoidea. The data extraction pipeline and detailed tree provide a framework for placement of any new sequences, including environmental samples, into a DNA‐based classification system of Coleoptera.
Targeted Disruption of an EH‐domain Protein Endocytic Complex, Pan1‐End3
Authors: Whitworth Karen , Bradford Mary Katherine , Camara Nicole , Wendland Beverly
Published: October 2013

Pan1 is a multi‐domain scaffold that enables dynamic interactions with both structural and regulatory components of the endocytic pathway. Pan1 is composed of Eps15 Homology (EH) domains which interact with adaptor proteins, a central region that is responsible for its oligomerization and C‐terminal binding sites for Arp2/3, F‐actin, and type‐I myosin motors. In this study, we have characterized the binding sites between Pan1 and its constitutive binding partner End3, another EH domain containing endocytic protein. The C‐terminal End3 Repeats of End3 associate with the N‐terminal part of Pan1's central coiled‐coil region. These repeats appear to act independently of one another as tandem, redundant binding sites for Pan1. The end3‐1 allele was sequenced, and corresponds to a C‐terminal truncation lacking the End3 Repeats. Mutations of the End3 Repeats highlight that those residues which are identical between these repeats serve as contact sites for the interaction with Pan1.
Prediction of hemoglobin levels in whole blood donors: how to model donation history
Authors: Baart A. Mireille , Vergouwe Yvonne , Atsma Femke , Moons Karel G.M. , de Kort Wim L.A.M.
Published: October 2013

Background

Recently, prediction models for hemoglobin (Hb) deferral risk have been developed. These models consider the previous Hb level plus change in Hb. Here, we investigated if the performance of models could be improved by considering more information on Hb level history.

Study Design and Methods

Data of 166,497 Dutch whole blood donors with sequential Hb measurements during 2 years (760,444 in total) were used to develop and internally validate three different regression models: two simple linear models with Hb level history included as 1) Hb at the previous visit plus change in Hb or 2) mean of all previous Hb levels and one mixed‐effect model including measurements of all previous Hb levels.

Results

Thirteen percent of men and 21% of women were deferred because of a low Hb level at least once in 2 years. The simple linear models and the mixed‐effect model performed similar, if an estimate of the random intercept of the mixed‐effect model was used for individual donors to calculate the predicted Hb level. In men, the concordance (c)‐statistic ranged from 0.87 to 0.89 and the R2 ranged from 0.42 to 0.45. In women, the c‐statistic ranged from 0.81 to 0.84. Values of R2 in women were higher for the simple linear models than for the mixed‐effect model, 0.37 and 0.40 versus 0.30, respectively.

Conclusion

Previous Hb levels could be summarized with one predictor as the mean value of all previous Hb levels. This predictor can be used in an easy‐to‐use simple linear regression model.
Effect of transient warming of red blood cells for up to 24 h: in vitro characteristics in CPD/saline‐adenine‐glucose‐mannitol environment
Authors: Gulliksson H. , Nordahl‐Källman A.‐S.
Published: October 2013

Background and Objectives

There are few studies on transient warming of red blood cells (RBCs). Occasional storage outside restricted temperature range often results in destroying of the RBC unit, even after a short period of time due to national guidelines. This study evaluates the in vitro effects associated with such accidental warming on RBCs stored in saline‐adenine‐glucose‐mannitol (SAGM) and prepared within 8 h after blood collection.

Study Design and Methods

This study includes both repeated short‐term exposure of RBCs to room temperature for 6 h as wells as warming for either 6, 12, 18 or 24 h after 1 week or after 3 weeks of storage in two separate studies. RBCs were stored for 42 days. We weekly measured pH, K+, glucose, lactate, haemolysis, red cell ATP and 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate.

Results

The lowest individual ATP value observed in any of the groups of warmed units was 2·6 μmol/g haemoglobin. Increased haemolysis in warmed units was noted in two of the studies. None of the individual units exceeded the European maximum limit of 0·8% haemolysis.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that quality of RBCs after transient warming will be maintained at acceptable levels specified in standards and in previous studies. However, increased haemolysis was observed when transient warming occurred during the second part of the storage period of 6 weeks suggesting that RBCs are more vulnerable to warming by the end of storage.
Red blood cell alloimmunization in sickle cell disease and in thalassaemia: current status, future perspectives and potential role of molecular typing
Authors: Matteocci A. , Pierelli L.
Published: October 2013

Red blood cell (RBC) transfusions are a milestone in the treatment for sickle cell anaemia (SSA) and for thalassaemia. RBC alloimmunization remains a major challenge of chronic transfusion therapy, and it can lead to adverse life‐threatening events. The alloimmunization risk could depend on multiple factors such as the number of transfusions and, most of all, the genetic background. Different ethnic groups are predisposed to immunization because of a significant degree of RBC antigenic mismatch between donor and recipient. There is no universal agreement and standards for the most appropriate selection of RBC units in chronically transfused subjects. Current practice only deals with compatibility of ABO, Rh and K antigens. Molecular RBC antigenic matching extended to other blood group systems is an innovative strategy to ensure a better quality and effectiveness of transfusion therapy.
Deficient cytokine expression and neutrophil oxidative burst contribute to impaired cutaneous wound healing in diabetic, biofilm‐containing chronic wounds
Authors: Nguyen Khang T. , Seth Akhil K. , Hong Seok J. , Geringer Matthew R. , Xie Ping , Leung Kai P. , Mustoe Thomas A. , Galiano Robert D.
Published: October 2013

Diabetic patients exhibit dysregulated inflammatory and immune responses that predispose them to chronic wound infections and the threat of limb loss. The molecular underpinnings responsible for this have not been well elucidated, particularly in the setting of wound biofilms. This study evaluates host responses in biofilm‐impaired wounds using the TallyHo mouse, a clinically relevant polygenic model of type 2 diabetes. No differences in cytokine or Toll‐like receptor (TLR) expression were noted in unwounded skin or noninoculated wounds of diabetic and wild‐type mice. However, diabetic biofilm‐containing wounds had significantly less TLR 2, TLR 4, interleukin‐1β, and tumor necrosis factor‐α expression than wild‐type wounds with biofilm (all p < 0.001). Both groups had similar bacterial burden and neutrophil infiltration after development of biofilms at 3 days postwounding, but diabetic wounds had significantly less neutrophil oxidative burst activity. This translated into a log‐fold greater bacterial burden and significant delay of wound epithelization for biofilm‐impaired diabetic wounds at 10 days postwounding. These results suggest that impaired recognition of bacterial infection via the TLR pathway leading to inadequate cytokine stimulation of antimicrobial host responses may represent a potential mechanism underlying diabetic susceptibility to wound infection and ulceration.
A vanishing theorem and symbolic powers of planar point ideals
Authors: Dumnicki M. , Szemberg T. , Tutaj-Gasińska H.
Published: October 2013

The purpose of this paper is twofold. We present first a vanishing theorem for families of linear series with base ideal being a fat points ideal. We then apply this result in order to give a partial proof of a conjecture raised by Bocci, Harbourne and Huneke concerning containment relations between ordinary and symbolic powers of planar point ideals.
Modeling a Phase Change Thermal Storage Device
Authors: Rhodes Robert , Moeller Trevor
Published: October 2013

A numerical model of a rapid response phase change heat exchange module has been developed and challenged with experimental data taken on a flow bench with multiple temperatures and flow rates for two different phase change thermal storage devices (PTSDs). The model requires an a priori knowledge of an effective overall heat transfer coefficient. A single test was used to establish a value for an effective overall heat transfer coefficient. With this information the model will predict the power removed from a fluid being cooled to closer than 15% of the peak power and the temperature of the fluid exiting the device to within 2 °C over the entire fluid discharge temperature range. This model, developed for potential use in feedback control algorithms, requires a real-time execution speed, and this goal has been achieved with a desktop quad-core computer (four times faster than real time). While 3D models with millions of cells can provide greater resolution, the large computational resources and run times required for these simulations precludes their use as a part of feedback control algorithms.
Ancient DNA Reveals Key Stages in the Formation of Central European Mitochondrial Genetic Diversity
Authors: Brandt Guido , Haak Wolfgang , Adler Christina J. , Roth Christina , Szécsényi-Nagy Anna , Karimnia Sarah , Möller-Rieker Sabine , Meller Harald , Ganslmeier Robert , Friederich Susanne , Dresely Veit , Nicklisch Nicole , Pickrell Joseph K. , Sirocko Frank , Reich David , Cooper Alan , Alt Kurt W. ,   The Genographic Consortium
Published: October 2013

The Origins of Europeans

To investigate the genetic origins of modern Europeans,Brandtet al.(p.257) examined ancient mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and were able to identify genetic differences in 364 Central Europeans spanning the early Neolithic to the Early Bronze Age. Observed changes in mitochondrial haplotypes corresponded with hypothesized human migration across Eurasia and revealed the complexity of the demographic changes and evidence of a Late Neolithic origin for the European mtDNA gene pool. This transect through time reveals four key population events associated with well-known archaeological cultures, which involved genetic influx into Central Europe from various directions at various times.