bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disulfide Mispairing During Proinsulin Folding in the Endoplasmic Reticulum
Authors: Haataja Leena , Manickam Nandini , Soliman Ann , Tsai Billy , Liu Ming , Arvan Peter
Published: January 2016

Proinsulin folding within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) remains incompletely understood, but it is clear that in mutant INS gene–induced diabetes of youth (MIDY), progression of the (three) native disulfide bonds of proinsulin becomes derailed, causing insulin deficiency, β-cell ER stress, and onset of diabetes. Herein, we have undertaken a molecular dissection of proinsulin disulfide bond formation, using bioengineered proinsulins that can form only two (or even only one) of the native proinsulin disulfide bonds. In the absence of preexisting proinsulin disulfide pairing, Cys(B19)-Cys(A20) (a major determinant of ER stress response activation and proinsulin stability) preferentially initiates B-A chain disulfide bond formation, whereas Cys(B7)-Cys(A7) can initiate only under oxidizing conditions beyond that existing within the ER of β-cells. Interestingly, formation of these two “interchain” disulfide bonds demonstrates cooperativity, and together, they are sufficient to confer intracellular transport competence to proinsulin. The three most common proinsulin disulfide mispairings in the ER appear to involve Cys(A11)-Cys(A20), Cys(A7)-Cys(A20), and Cys(B19)-Cys(A11), each disrupting the critical Cys(B19)-Cys(A20) pairing. MIDY mutations inhibit Cys(B19)-Cys(A20) formation, but treatment to force oxidation of this disulfide bond improves folding and results in a small but detectable increase of proinsulin export. These data suggest possible therapeutic avenues to ameliorate ER stress and diabetes.
The Clinical Outcome and Therapeutic Treatment of a Patient with Double Seronegative Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Azanjac Ana , Tončev Gordana , Vesić Katarina , Gavrilović Aleksandar , Bosković Matić Tatjana , Miletić Drakulić Svetlana
Published: January 2016

We reported a case of a 22-year-old male patient with swallowing difficulties and double vision. He was diagnosed on the basis of a positive pharmacological test, damage to the postsynaptic neuromuscular junction and computed tomography of the thorax. Tests for antibodies targeted to acetylcholine receptors and to muscle-specific tyrosine kinase were negative. A partial improvement in neurological findings following treatment with pyridostigmine bromide, cyclosporine and methylprednisolone was notedadministered. Th e patient responded favourably to plasma exchange with a withdrawal of all clinical symptoms, confirming the hypothesis that humoral factors may underlie the pathogenesis of double-negative MG .
An Integrated View: Neuroadipocrinology of Diabesity
Authors: Chaldakov George N. , Fiore Marco , Ranćić Gorana , Beltowski Jerzy , Tunçel Neşe , Aloe Luigi
Published: January 2016

Today’s achievements in systems biology and -omics sciences have facilitated a shift from studying individual molecules and tissues to characterising molecules and cells holistically. In this article, we attempt to discuss the status of a much-needed coherent view that integrates studies on neurobiology and adipobiology, as well as those on diabetes and obesity. Globally, cardiometabolic diseases (atherosclerosis, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, diabesity, and metabolic syndrome) are the most prevalent pathologies. In 2000, Astrup and Finer (Obes Rev 1: 57-59) wrote the following: “Since type 2 diabetes is obesity dependent, and obesity is the main aetiogical cause of type 2 diabetes, we propose the term ‘diabesity’ should be adopted.” Arguably, the research field of adipobiology has witnessed three major paradigm shifts since the discovery of leptin, an adipose-derived hormone, in 1994. Various neuroendocrine and neurotrophic factors are included in the growing list of endocrine and paracrine adipose-secreted signaling proteins collectively designated adipokines. These findings open a novel field of research known as neuroadipocrinology, a component of neuroendocrinology. Adipokines, including nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), mediate multiple biological processes, such as food intake, immunity, inflammation, memory, mood, and metabolism. The effects on metabolism involve the maintenance of glucose, lipid and energy homeostasis as well as cardioprotection, neuroprotection, and aging. In this article, we highlight the role of metabotrophic factors (MTF) and the adipose- and nonadipose-derived biomolecules that mediate these effects. Recent results demonstrate that circulating and tissue levels of certain MTFs, e.g., adiponectin, NGF, BDNF, glucagon-like protein-1, sirtuin-1, interleukin- 10, and aquaporin-7, are altered in cardiometabolic diseases, including diabesity. Overall, this may cultivate a novel thinking for diabesity, herein also referred to as Homo diabesus.
The Effects of Vibroacoustically Induced Microvibrations on Arterial Blood Pressure and Oxidative Stress in Rats
Authors: Kornjaca Dusko , Zivkovic Vladimir , Barudzic Nevena , Jakovljevic Vladimir , Djuric Dragan
Published: January 2016

Vibroacoustics, a scientific field that has been intensively studied for the last thirty years, uses the properties of sound waves (infrasound, ultrasound, noise and music) to induce vibrations that, like a sound wave, may have both useful and harmful effects. Th e aim of this study was to examine the effects of vibroacoustically induced microvibrations on arterial blood pressure and markers of oxidative stress in the blood. Th e experiments were performed on Wistar male rats that had a 180-200 g body mass and were divided into control and experimental groups (6 rats in each). In the experimental group, microvibrations were induced using the Vitafon vibroacoustic apparatus (Vitafon, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation), which delivers sound waves of varying frequencies by a process called “phoning”. Up to 60 minutes of phoning time was delivered to the kidney and liver using 4 diff erent regimens that included a 5-minute stabilisation time; up to four 10-minute phoning regimens, with 5-minute breaks between each single regimen, at a 30 Hz-18000 kHz frequency range;, and 2.8 μm-12.3 μm microwave amplitudes. After the completion of a phoning regimen, animals were sacrificed and the oxidative stress markers were measured in blood samples (O2
-, H2O2, nitrites, lipid peroxidation index, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione) and compared with the values of markers in the control group. Systolic arterial pressure was analysed after the acute application of up to four diff erent regimens of vibroacoustic microvibrations. Systolic arterial pressure decreased significantly during the administration of the second regimen in comparison to the control group. Systolic arterial pressure returned, almost completely, to the initial value after the administration of the third and fourth regimens. Th ere was no significant change in diastolic arterial pressure after the acute administration of up to four different regimens, although the pressure decreased slightly after the first and second regimens and returned to the initial value during the administration of the third and fourth regimens. Analysis of oxidative stress markers showed a statistically significant change in the catalase level. No statistically significant differences were found in the other oxidative stress markers analyzeanalysed. Further research is needed to clarify the physiological effects of low compared to high frequencies of vibroacoustically induced microvibrations and their possible therapeutic significance.
Hepato-renal Syndrome: Etiopathogenesis, Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Nešić Jelena , Zornić Nenad , Rosić Vesna , Petrović Dejan
Published: January 2016

Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) involves reversible renal failure in patients with advanced cirrhosis or acute liver failure. The aim of the study was to determine the pathogenetic mechanisms of the development of hepatorenal syndrome and to emphasise the clinical importance of early detection and timely treatment of patients with this condition. Th e one-year incidence rate of hepatorenal syndrome in patients with liver cirrhosis is 18-20%. Th e risk factors for the development of hepatorenal syndrome include the following: spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, gastrointestinal bleeding, nephrotoxic drugs, diuretics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and hyponatraemia. The primary plan of treatment is a liver transplantation, while a secondary plan of treatment is the use of a vasoconstrictor in conjunction with albumin. Early diagnosis and prompt appropriate treatment can significantly reduce the mortality rate of patients with hepatorenal syndrome.
Xenobiotic Induced Model of Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
Authors: Arsenijevic Aleksandar , Milovanovic Jelena , Stojanovic Bojana , Milovanovic Marija , Gershwin Eric M. , Leung Patrick , Arsenijevic Nebojsa , Lukic Miodrag L.
Published: January 2016

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is an autoimmune disease of the liver that is, characterised by destruction of the intrahepatic bile ducts and the presence of antimitochondrial antibodies (AMAs). Several murine models of PBC, with similar serological, biochemical, and histological features to human PBC, have been developed in recent years. These animal models enable investigators to study the etiology and pathophysiologic mechanism of PBC. Immune response in PBC is directed towards E2 components of the 2-oxo-acid dehydrogenase family of enzymes, which is in located in mitochondria and is an immunodominant epitope (a lipoylated peptide sequence shared by enzymes). Immunisation of mice with 2-octynoic acid coupled to bovine serum albumin (2-OA-BSA) (which is an antigen that is structurally related to the E2 subunit of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex [PDC-E2]) produces histologic features similar to those found in human PBC. Th is model of xenobiotic induced PBC is suitable for studying the early events in PBC pathogenesis and for developing new therapeutics in PBC.
Cutaneous Effects of Sea Buckthorn Oil Emulsion
Authors: Kipic Mihailo , Cupara Snezana , Jacevic Vesna , Radovanovic Ana , Milovanovic Olivera
Published: January 2016

Sea buckthorn oil (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) is medically used both externally and internally, but the external application is unsuitable due to its liquid, lipophilic and highly coloured nature. These difficulties could be overcome by a formulation of semisolid emulsion with sea buckthorn oil. Previous research on this formulation showed that it has higher wound healing potential than sea buckthorn oil, possessing an enhanced structure of liquid crystals, stability and suitability for topical use.

The aim of this investigation was to completely characterizise a proposed emulsion by testing skin effects, such as moisturising potential, skin pH and potential to cause skin irritation.

The emulsion was prepared by standard emulsifying techniques using a combination of surfactants that form an enhanced structure of liquid crystals. Approximately 40% of sea buckthorn oil was incorporated. The moisturising potential and skin pH were tested on the healthy skin of volunteers. Skin tolerance was tested on a rabbit skin model and evaluated by the Draize test.

The tested emulsion containing sea buckthorn oil did not cause a significant change in skin pH, while it significantly increased skin hydration. Th ere was an absence of edema or erythema type of irritation after 2 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 7 days of application of the emulsion with sea buckthorn oil.

The tested formulation shows good moisturizising effects and does not cause human or animal skin irritation. Th e study confi ms that the combination of the proposed ingredients in a sea buckthorn oil emulsion is adequate and could be safe for skin application
Latent Murine Cytomegalovirus Infection Contributes to EAE Pathogenesis / Latentna Infekcija Mišjim Citomegalovirusom Ima Ulogu U Patogenezi Eksperimentalnog Autoimunskog Encefalomijelitisa
Authors: Milovanovic Jelena , Arsenijevic Aleksandar , Stojanovic Bojana , Milovanovic Marija , Jonjic Stipan , Popovic Branka , Arsenijevic Nebojsa , Lukic Miodrag L.
Published: January 2016

Viral infection has been identified as the most likely environmental trigger of multiple sclerosis (MS). There are conflicting data regarding the role of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in MS pathogenesis.

We utilised experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE)-resistant BALB/c mice and murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV), the murine homolog of CMV, to examine the mechanism by which viral infection enhances autoimmune neuroinflammation. Mice subjected to latent neonatal MCMV infection developed the typical characteristics of EAE. Similar to MS, the MCMV-infected EAE-induced mice developed infiltrates in the central nervous system (CNS) composed of similar percentages of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. The influx of both Th 1 and Th 17 cells into the CNS of MCMV- infected EAE-induced mice was observed. Interestingly, the development of autoimmune neuroinflammation after latent MCMV infection was accompanied by a significant influx of Tc17 cells (CD8+IL-17+ and CD8+RoRγt+) but not Tc1, cells. Our results suggest that latent MCMV infection affects the development of inflammatory lymphocytes that exhibit encephalitogenic potential, thereby mediating increased CNS pathology following EAE induction, and that CMV represents a possible environmental factor in the pathogenesis of MS and other autoimmune diseases
Rapid increase in lymphogranuloma venereum in men who have sex with men, United Kingdom, 2003 to September 2015
Authors: Childs Tristan , Simms Ian , Alexander Sarah , Eastick Kirstine , Hughes Gwenda , Field Nigel
Published: January 2016

United Kingdom (UK) national data show a sharp increase in diagnoses of lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) since 2012. Most cases are in men who have sex with men (MSM) living in London, with high rates of co-infection with HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. In light of these data, and the recent finding that one quarter of LGV infections may be asymptomatic, clinicians should be vigilant in testing for LGV, including in asymptomatic HIV-positive MSM.
Increase in cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome during a Chikungunya outbreak, French Polynesia, 2014 to 2015
Authors: Oehler Erwan , Fournier Emmanuel , Leparc-Goffart Isabelle , Larre Philippe , Cubizolle Stéphanie , Sookhareea Chantal , Lastère Stéphane , Ghawche Frédéric
Published: January 2016

During the recent chikungunya fever outbreak in French Polynesia in October 2014 to March 2015, we observed an abnormally high number of patients with neurological deficit. Clinical presentation and complementary exams were suggestive of Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) for nine patients. All nine had a recent dengue-like syndrome and tested positive for chikungunya virus (CHIKV) in serology or RT-PCR. GBS incidence was increased four- to nine-fold during this period, suggesting a link to CHIKV infection.
Duration of Ebola virus RNA persistence in semen of survivors: population-level estimates and projections
Authors: Eggo Rosalind M , Watson Conall H , Camacho Anton , Kucharski Adam J , Funk Sebastian , Edmunds W John
Published: January 2016

Ebola virus can persist in semen after recovery, potentially for months, which may impact the duration of enhanced surveillance required after interruption of transmission. We combined recent data on viral RNA persistence with weekly disease incidence to estimate the current number of semen-positive men in affected West African countries. We find the number is low, and since few reported sexual transmission events have occurred, the future risk is also likely low, although sexual health promotion remains critical.
Role of Channel of Distribution for Consumer New Product Success in Nepal
Authors: Sharma Bed Nath
Published: January 2016

This study concerns with channels used to distribute consumer new products and their role for new product success. To distribute consumer new product, distributor or wholesaler are in use. Sales trend of new product is in increasing trend. Distributor/wholesaler are satisfied with product features as well as delivery and terms and conditions of payment. Most of them are satisfied with manufacturer’s new product launching strategy. Competitive position of new product is found good. Distributor or wholesale are satisfied with manufacturer’s dealing. Distributors are playing significant role for new product success.

The Journal of Nepalese Business Studies Vol. IV, No. 1 (2007) pp. 10-15
Role of Remittance in Economic Development of Nepal
Authors: Srivastava Nagendra Lal , Chaudhary Shashi K.
Published: January 2016

This article deals with the analysis of direct impact of remittance on three development indicators viz. GDP, GNP and PCI of the nation which are also the dependent variables of the proposed models. The analysis has been carried out with linear and log-linear models under multiple regressions. The impact of remittance has been seen most remarkable in the GDP and GNP both in nominal and real terms. In the nominal GDP and GNP, the remittance shows 61 percent and 72 percent impact respectively while in real term it shows 48 percent and 55 percent respectively. It has also shown positive impact on the PCI but it is comparatively low (four percent in nominal and one percent in real

terms). The growth rates of independent variables (Rm, K, L and X) have also been tested in the same model to find the effects on the dependent variables. The findings are positive except for labor force, but they are marginal which show that remittance has not been used effectively so as to increase the real growth rates of the economy.

The Journal of Nepalese Business Studies Vol. IV, No.1 (2007) pp. 28-37
Behavioral Effects of Completing a Critical Link in the American Tobacco Trail
Authors: Cook Thomas J. , O’Brien Sarah W. , Jackson Kristy N. , Findley Daniel J. , Searcy Sarah E.
Published: January 2016

This study responded to a unique opportunity to determine behavioral changes that resulted from the construction of a critical link of the American Tobacco Trail (ATT) in Durham, North Carolina. Observational data were collected both before and after construction of a bicycle-and-pedestrian bridge that linked two separate segments of the regional greenway. Before construction of the bridge and trail connections, the two segments of the ATT were separated by Interstate 40. Heavy traffic on local streets as well as a lack of bicycle and pedestrian facilities in the area provided additional barriers to active travel between the two ATT segments. The Institute of Transportation Research and Education conducted intercept surveys and manual counts on the two trail segments before and after construction of the bridge. The before-and-after data were compared to determine the changes that occurred in the use of the ATT and the accompanying social, public health, transportation, and economic effects.
Hypophosphatemic rickets and craniosynostosis: a multicenter case series
Authors: Vega Rafael A. , Opalak Charles , Harshbarger Raymond J. , Fearon Jeffrey A. , Ritter Ann M. , Collins John J. , Rhodes Jennifer L.
Published: January 2016

OBJECTIVE

This study examines a series of patients with hypophosphatemic rickets and craniosynostosis to characterize the clinical course and associated craniofacial anomalies.

METHODS

A 20-year retrospective review identified patients with hypophosphatemic rickets and secondary craniosynostosis at 3 major craniofacial centers. Parameters examined included sex, age at diagnosis of head shape anomaly, affected sutures, etiology of rickets, presenting symptoms, number and type of surgical interventions, and associated diagnoses. A review of the literature was performed to optimize treatment recommendations.

RESULTS

Ten patients were identified (8 males, 2 females). Age at presentation ranged from 1 to 9 years. The most commonly affected suture was the sagittal (6/10 patients). Etiologies included antacid-induced rickets, autosomal dominant hypophosphatemic rickets, and X-linked hypophosphatemic (XLH) rickets. Nine patients had undergone at least 1 cranial vault remodeling (CVR) surgery. Three patients underwent subsequent surgeries in later years. Four patients underwent formal intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring, 3 of which revealed elevated ICP. Three patients were diagnosed with a Chiari Type I malformation.

CONCLUSIONS

Secondary craniosynostosis develops postnatally due to metabolic or mechanical factors. The most common metabolic cause is hypophosphatemic rickets, which has a variety of etiologies. Head shape changes occur later and with a more heterogeneous presentation compared with that of primary craniosynostosis. CVR may be required to prevent or relieve elevated ICP and abnormalities of the cranial vault. Children with hypophosphatemic rickets who develop head shape abnormalities should be promptly referred to a craniofacial specialist.
Imaging symptomatic bone morphogenetic protein-2–induced heterotopic bone formation within the spinal canal: case report
Authors: Chryssikos Timothy , Crandall Kenneth M. , Sansur Charles A.
Published: January 2016

Heterotopic bone formation within the spinal canal is a known complication of bone morphogenetic protein–2 (BMP-2) and presents a clinical and surgical challenge. Imaging modalities are routinely used for operative planning in this setting. Here, the authors present the case of a 59-year-old woman with cauda equina syndrome following intraoperative BMP-2 administration. Plain film myelographic studies showed a region of severe stenosis that was underappreciated on CT myelography due to a heterotopic bony lesion mimicking the dorsal aspect of a circumferentially patent thecal sac. When evaluating spinal stenosis under these circumstances, it is important to carefully consider plain myelographic images in addition to postmyelography CT images as the latter may underestimate the true degree of stenosis due to the potentially similar radiographic appearances of evolving BMP-2–induced heterotopic bone and intrathecal contrast. Alternatively, comparison of sequentially acquired noncontrast CT scans with CT myelographic images may also assist in distinguishing BMP-2–induced heterotopic bony lesions from the thecal sac. Further studies are needed to elucidate the roles of the available imaging techniques in this setting and to characterize the connection between the radiographic and histological appearances of BMP-2–induced heterotopic bone.
Direct-trauma model of posttraumatic syringomyelia with a computer-controlled motorized spinal cord impactor
Authors: Wong Johnny H. Y. , Song Xin , Hemley Sarah J. , Bilston Lynne E. , Cheng Shaokoon , Stoodley Marcus A.
Published: January 2016

OBJECTIVE

The pathogenesis of posttraumatic syringomyelia remains enigmatic and is not adequately explained by current theories. Experimental investigations require a reproducible animal model that replicates the human condition. Current animal models are imperfect because of their low reliability, severe neurological deficits, or dissimilar mechanism of injury. The objective of this study was to develop a reproducible rodent model of posttraumatic syringomyelia using a spinal cord impactor that produces an injury that more closely mimics the human condition and does not produce severe neurological deficits.

METHODS

The study consisted of 2 parts. Seventy animals were studied overall: 20 in Experiment 1 and 48 in Experiment 2 after two rats with severe deficits were killed early. Experiment 1 aimed to determine the optimal force setting for inducing a cystic cavity without neurological deficits using a computer-controlled motorized spinal cord impactor. Twenty animals received an impact that ranged from 50 to 150 kDyn. Using the optimal force for producing an initial cyst determined from Experiment 1, Experiment 2 aimed to compare the progression of cavities in animals with and those without arachnoiditis induced by kaolin. Forty-eight animals were killed at 1, 3, 6, or 12 weeks after syrinx induction. Measurements of cavity size and maximum anteroposterior and lateral diameters were evaluated using light microscopy.

RESULTS

In Experiment 1, cavities were present in 95% of the animals. The duration of limb weakness and spinal cord cavity size correlated with the delivered force. The optimal force chosen for Experiment 2 was 75 kDyn. In Experiment 2, cavities occurred in 92% of the animals. Animals in the kaolin groups developed larger cavities and more vacuolations and enlarged perivascular spaces than those in the nonkaolin groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This impact model reliably produces cavities that resemble human posttraumatic syringomyelia and is suitable for further study of posttraumatic syringomyelia pathophysiology.
Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus: diagnostic and predictive value of clinical testing, lumbar drainage, and CSF dynamics
Authors: Mahr Cynthia V. , Dengl Markus , Nestler Ulf , Reiss-Zimmermann Martin , Eichner Gerrit , Preuß Matthias , Meixensberger Jürgen
Published: January 2016

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to analyze the diagnostic and predictive values of clinical tests, CSF dynamics, and intracranial pulsatility tests, compared with external lumbar drainage (ELD), for shunt response in patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH).

METHODS

Sixty-eight consecutive patients with suspected iNPH were prospectively evaluated. Preoperative assessment included clinical tests, overnight intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring, lumbar infusion test (LIFT), and ELD for 24–72 hours. Simple and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to identify predictive parameters concerning the outcome after shunt therapy.

RESULTS

Positive response to ELD correctly predicted improvement after CSF diversion in 87.9% of the patients. A Mini–Mental State Examination (MMSE) value below 21 was associated with nonresponse after shunt insertion (specificity 93%, sensitivity 67%). Resistance to outflow of CSF (ROut) > 12 mm Hg/ml/min was false negative in 21% of patients. Intracranial pulsatility parameters yielded different results in various parameters (correlation coefficient between pulse amplitude and ICP, slow wave amplitude, and mean ICP) but did not correlate to outcome. In multiple linear regression analysis, a calculation of presurgical MMSE versus the value after ELD, ROut, and ICP amplitude quotient during LIFT was significantly associated with outcome (p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite a multitude of invasive tests, presurgical clinical testing and response to ELD yielded the best prediction for improvement of symptoms following surgery. The complication rate of invasive testing was 5.4%. Multiple and simple linear regression analyses indicated that outcome can only be predicted by a combination of parameters, in accordance with a multifactorial pathogenesis of iNPH.
The cochlea in skull base surgery: an anatomy study
Authors: Wang Jian , Yoshioka Fumitaka , Joo Wonil , Komune Noritaka , Quilis-Quesada Vicent , Rhoton Albert L.
Published: January 2016

OBJECTIVE

The object of this study was to examine the relationships of the cochlea as a guide for avoiding both cochlear damage with loss of hearing in middle fossa approaches and injury to adjacent structures in approaches directed through the cochlea.

METHODS

Twenty adult cadaveric middle fossae were examined using magnifications of ×3 to ×40.

RESULTS

The cochlea sits below the floor of the middle fossa in the area between and below the labyrinthine segment of the facial nerve and greater petrosal nerve (GPN) and adjacent to the lateral genu of the petrous carotid. Approximately one-third of the cochlea extends below the medial edge of the labyrinthine segment of the facial nerve, geniculate ganglion, and proximal part of the GPN. The medial part of the basal and middle turns are the parts at greatest risk in drilling the floor of the middle fossa to expose the nerves in middle fossa approaches to the internal acoustic meatus and in anterior petrosectomy approaches. Resection of the cochlea is used selectively in extending approaches through the mastoid toward the lateral edge of the clivus and front of the brainstem.

CONCLUSIONS

An understanding of the location and relationships of the cochlea will reduce the likelihood of cochlear damage with hearing loss in approaches directed through the middle fossa and reduce the incidence of injury to adjacent structures in approaches directed through the cochlea.
Increased incidence of subarachnoid hemorrhage during cold temperatures and influenza epidemics
Authors: Backes Daan , Rinkel Gabriel J. E. , Algra Ale , Vaartjes Ilonca , Donker Gé A. , Vergouwen Mervyn D. I.
Published: January 2016

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated whether the increased incidence of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) in winter is related to temperature or increased incidence of influenza. Such relationships may elucidate the pathogenesis of intracranial aneurysm rupture.

METHODS

A nationwide sample of 18,714 patients with SAH was linked with weekly temperature and influenza-like illness consultation data. Poisson regression analyses were used to calculate incidence density ratios (IDRs) with corresponding 95% CIs for the association of SAH incidence with temperature and influenza epidemics; IDRs were adjusted for study year (aIDR). In addition, SAH incidence data from 30 European population-based studies were linked with daily temperature data from the European Climate Assessment.

RESULTS

The aIDR for SAH during influenza epidemics was 1.061 (95% CI 1.022–1.101) in the univariable and 1.030 (95% CI 0.989–1.074) in the multivariable analysis. This association declined gradually during the weeks after epidemics. Per 1°C temperature drop, the aIDR was 1.005 (95% CI 1.003–1.008) in the univariable and 1.004 (95% CI 1.002–1.007) in the multivariable analysis. In the European population-based studies, the IDR was 1.143 (95% CI 1.129–1.157) per 1°C temperature drop.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of SAH is increased during cold temperatures and epidemic influenza. Future studies with individual patient data are needed to investigate causality between temperature or influenza and SAH.
The Simpson grading revisited: aggressive surgery and its place in modern meningioma management
Authors: Gousias Konstantinos , Schramm Johannes , Simon Matthias
Published: January 2016

OBJECTIVE

Recent advances in radiotherapy and neuroimaging have called into question the traditional role of aggressive resections in patients with meningiomas. In the present study the authors reviewed their institutional experience with a policy based on maximal safe resections for meningiomas, and they analyzed the impact of the degree of resection on functional outcome and progression-free survival (PFS).

METHODS

The authors retrospectively analyzed 901 consecutive patients with primary meningiomas (716 WHO Grade I, 174 Grade II, and 11 Grade III) who underwent resections at the University Hospital of Bonn between 1996 and 2008. Clinical and treatment parameters as well as tumor characteristics were analyzed using standard statistical methods.

RESULTS

The median follow-up was 62 months. PFS rates at 5 and 10 years were 92.6% and 86.0%, respectively. Younger age, higher preoperative Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) score, and convexity tumor location, but not the degree of resection, were identified as independent predictors of a good functional outcome (defined as KPS Score 90–100). Independent predictors of PFS were degree of resection (Simpson Grade I vs II vs III vs IV), MIB-1 index (< 5% vs 5%–10% vs >10%), histological grade (WHO I vs II vs III), tumor size (≤ 6 vs > 6 cm), tumor multiplicity, and location. A Simpson Grade II rather than Grade I resection more than doubled the risk of recurrence at 10 years in the overall series (18.8% vs 8.5%). The impact of aggressive resections was much stronger in higher grade meningiomas.

CONCLUSIONS

A policy of maximal safe resections for meningiomas prolongs PFS and is not associated with increased morbidity.
Social Network Analysis and Nutritional Behavior: An Integrated Modeling Approach
Authors: Senior Alistair M. , Lihoreau Mathieu , Buhl Camille , Raubenheimer David , Simpson Stephen J.
Published: January 2016

Animals have evolved complex foraging strategies to obtain a nutritionally balanced diet and associated fitness benefits. Recent research combining state-space models of nutritional geometry with agent-based models (ABMs), show how nutrient targeted foraging behavior can also influence animal social interactions, ultimately affecting collective dynamics and group structures. Here we demonstrate how social network analyses can be integrated into such a modeling framework and provide a practical analytical tool to compare experimental results with theory. We illustrate our approach by examining the case of nutritionally mediated dominance hierarchies. First we show how nutritionally explicit ABMs that simulate the emergence of dominance hierarchies can be used to generate social networks. Importantly the structural properties of our simulated networks bear similarities to dominance networks of real animals (where conflicts are not always directly related to nutrition). Finally, we demonstrate how metrics from social network analyses can be used to predict the fitness of agents in these simulated competitive environments. Our results highlight the potential importance of nutritional mechanisms in shaping dominance interactions in a wide range of social and ecological contexts. Nutrition likely influences social interactions in many species, and yet a theoretical framework for exploring these effects is currently lacking. Combining social network analyses with computational models from nutritional ecology may bridge this divide, representing a pragmatic approach for generating theoretical predictions for nutritional experiments.
ENSO-Related Precipitation and Its Statistical Relationship with the Walker Circulation Trend in CMIP5 AMIP Models
Authors: Yim Bo , Yeh Sang-Wook , Sohn Byung-Ju
Published: January 2016

Observational evidence shows that the Walker circulation (WC) in the tropical Pacific has strengthened in recent decades. In this study, we examine the WC trend for 1979–2005 and its relationship with the precipitation associated with the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) using the sea surface temperature (SST)-constrained Atmospheric Model Intercomparison Project (AMIP) simulations of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) climate models. All of the 29 models show a strengthening of the WC trend in response to an increase in the SST zonal gradient along the equator. Despite the same SST-constrained AMIP simulations, however, a large diversity is found among the CMIP5 climate models in the magnitude of the WC trend. The relationship between the WC trend and precipitation anomalies (PRCPAs) associated with ENSO (ENSO-related PRCPAs) shows that the longitudinal position of the ENSO-related PRCPAs in the western tropical Pacific is closely related to the magnitude of the WC trend. Specifically, it is found that the strengthening of the WC trend is large (small) in the CMIP5 AMIP simulations in which the ENSO-related PRCPAs are located relatively westward (eastward) in the western tropical Pacific. Therefore, the zonal shift of the ENSO-related precipitation in the western tropical Pacific, which is associated with the climatological mean precipitation in the tropical Pacific, could play an important role in modifying the WC trend in the CMIP5 climate models.
Particulate Characteristics during a Haze Episode Based on Two Ceilometers with Different Wavelengths
Authors: Yuan Jing , Bu Lingbing , Huang Xingyou , Gao Haiyang , Sa Rina
Published: January 2016

To investigate the particulate characteristics of a haze episode, data from two ceilometers with wavelengths of 532 nm and 910 nm, respectively, were studied intensively. By combining the data from the ceilometers with data from a sounding balloon, an automatic meteorological station, and a Grimm 180 PM instrument, analyses of the haze process of a short haze event were performed. The results showed that the relatively calm weather conditions were favorable to the occurrence of the haze and that higher relative humidity had a great influence on visibility. The extinction profiles from the ceilometers reflected the existence of an inverted structure of the temperature profiles and demonstrated the extinction differences at two different wavelengths. Because extinction has a positive correlation with relative humidity, the effect of hygroscopic growth was analyzed at the two different wavelengths. As hygroscopic growth of the particles proceeded, the longer wavelength became more sensitive to the large particles, and vice versa. The hygroscopic growth factor and the Angstrom exponent showed a negative correlation, and the correlation coefficients at 532 nm and 910 nm were 0.54 and 0.86, respectively. The accumulation mode particles were more stable through time than the coarse mode particles, and the variation of the coarse mode particles coincided well with the variation of the Angstrom exponent from the two ceilometers.
Cellular Mechanisms of Ciliary Length Control
Authors: Keeling Jacob , Tsiokas Leonidas , Maskey Dipak
Published: January 2016

Cilia and flagella are evolutionarily conserved, membrane-bound, microtubule-based organelles on the surface of most eukaryotic cells. They play important roles in coordinating a variety of signaling pathways during growth, development, cell mobility, and tissue homeostasis. Defects in ciliary structure or function are associated with multiple human disorders called ciliopathies. These diseases affect diverse tissues, including, but not limited to the eyes, kidneys, brain, and lungs. Many processes must be coordinated simultaneously in order to initiate ciliogenesis. These include cell cycle, vesicular trafficking, and axonemal extension. Centrioles play a central role in both cell cycle progression and ciliogenesis, making the transition between basal bodies and mitotic spindle organizers integral to both processes. The maturation of centrioles involves a functional shift from cell division toward cilium nucleation which takes place concurrently with its migration and fusion to the plasma membrane. Several proteinaceous structures of the distal appendages in mother centrioles are required for this docking process. Ciliary assembly and maintenance requires a precise balance between two indispensable processes; so called assembly and disassembly. The interplay between them determines the length of the resulting cilia. These processes require a highly conserved transport system to provide the necessary substances at the tips of the cilia and to recycle ciliary turnover products to the base using a based microtubule intraflagellar transport (IFT) system. In this review; we discuss the stages of ciliogenesis as well as mechanisms controlling the lengths of assembled cilia.
Implementing Local Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation Actions: The Role of Various Policy Instruments in a Multi-Level Governance Context
Authors: Keskitalo E. , Juhola Sirkku , Baron Nina , Fyhn Håkon , Klein Johannes
Published: January 2016

Recently, considerable focus, e.g., in the fifth IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) Assessment Report (2014) has been trained on why adaptation and mitigation have not been developed more than at present, with relatively few local government actions taken compared with, for example, more discursive policy agreement on the importance of the issue of climate change. Going beyond a focus on general limits and barriers, this comment suggests that one important issue is that climate change has not yet been sufficiently integrated into the state regulative structure of legislation and policy-making. A comparison between three cases suggests that local developments that are not supported in particular by binding regulation are unlikely to achieve the same general level of implementation as issues for which such regulative demands (and thereby also requirements for prioritization) exist. This constitutes an important consideration for the development of adaptation and mitigation as policy areas, including on the local level.
Environmental Analysis of Petrol, Diesel and Electric Passenger Cars in a Belgian Urban Setting
Authors: Hooftman Nils , Oliveira Luis , Messagie Maarten , Coosemans Thierry , Van Mierlo Joeri
Published: January 2016

The combustion of fossil fuels in the transport sector leads to an aggravation of the air quality along city roads and highways. Urban air quality is a serious problem nowadays as the number of vehicles increases on a yearly basis. With stricter Euro emission regulations, vehicle manufacturers are not meeting the imposed limits and are also disregarding the non-exhaust emissions. This paper highlights the relevance of non-exhaust emissions of passenger vehicles, both conventional (diesel and petrol) or electric vehicles (EV), on air quality levels in an urban environment in Belgium. An environmental life cycle assessment was carried out based on a real-world emission model for passenger cars and fuel refinery data. A cut-off was applied to the models to highlight what emissions, both from the refinery to the exhaust and electricity production for EV, do actually occur within Belgium’s borders. Results show that not much progress has been made from Euro 4 to 6 for conventional vehicles. Electric vehicles pose the best alternative solution as a more environmentally friendly means of transportation. The analysis results target policy makers with the intention that regulations and policies would be developed in the future and target the characterization of non-exhaust emissions from vehicles. These results indicate that EVs offer a valid solution for addressing the urban air quality issue and that non-exhaust emissions should be addressed in future regulatory steps as they dominate the impact spectrum.
Influence of Fine Metal Particles on Surface Discharge Characteristics of Outdoor Insulators
Authors: Liu Yong , Xia Bowen , Du Boxue , Farzaneh Masoud
Published: January 2016

Focusing on the influence of fine metal particles on the insulation characteristics of outdoor insulators, spherical micrometer-level iron powders were used to represent fine metal particles of different parameters on a polymer insulator specimen surface. Dynamic movement and lift-off behavior of fine particles, as well as the triggered surface discharges under AC voltage were investigated in a uniform electric field under different experimental conditions. The results reveal that the inception, propagation and intensity of surface discharges are significantly affected by the particle parameters, including particle size, amount and distributing characteristic. Based on the measurement of light emission during the flashover process using a high-speed camera, the process of surface discharge to flashover triggered by the fine metal particles were investigated to obtain a relationship between flashover voltage, discharge light intensity and particle parameters. It is suggested that particle size smaller than 28 µm and particle amount more than 40 mg in contact with the non-uniform distribution can cause a significant distortion and intensification of the electric field resulting in a higher risk of surface discharges leading to flashover. Such investigations can enhance the operating reliability of outdoor insulators subjected to these conditions.
Attribution Analyses of Impacts of Environmental Changes on Streamflow and Sediment Load in a Mountainous Basin, Vietnam
Authors: Wang Jie , Hiroshi Ishidaira , Ning Shaowei , Khujanazarov Timur , Yin Guiping , Guo Lijuan
Published: January 2016

Located in the southeastern China and northern Vietnam, the Red River is an important international trans-boundary river that has experienced rapid deforestation and environmental changes over the past decades. We conducted attribution analysis of impacts of various environmental changes on streamflow and sediment load. The contribution of reclassified environmental changes to total change of the streamflow and sediment load was separated. Land cover change based on climate-induced and human-induced indicators were defined. We found that human-induced land cover change was the main factor affecting changes of the streamflow and sediment load. Changes of the land cover were more pronounced in the dry season than in the wet season whereas sediment load changed more in the wet season than in the dry season. In addition, changes in sediment load were mainly caused by human-induced land cover change and the changes of land cover were more influential on sediment load than on streamflow in the Red River basin.
Developing Aboveground Biomass Equations Both Compatible with Tree Volume Equations and Additive Systems for Single-Trees in Poplar Plantations in Jiangsu Province, China
Authors: Zhang Chao , Peng Dao-Li , Huang Guo-Sheng , Zeng Wei-Sheng
Published: January 2016

We developed aboveground biomass equations for poplar plantations in Jiangsu Province, China, both compatible with tree volume equations and additive systems. Biomass equations were fitted with 80 selected and previously harvested sample trees. Additivity property was assured by applying a “controlling directly under total biomass proportion function” approach. Weighted regression was used to correct heteroscedasticity. Parameters were estimated using a nonlinear error-in-variable model. The results indicated that (1), on average, stems constituted the largest proportion (71.5%) of total aboveground biomass; (2) the aboveground biomass equations, both compatible with tree volume equations and additive systems, obtained good model fitting and prediction, of which the coefficient of determination ranged from 0.903 to 0.987, and the total relative error and the mean prediction error were less than 2.0% and 10.0%, respectively; (3) adding H and CW into the additive system of biomass equations did not improve model fitting and performance as expected, especially for branches and foliage biomass; and (4) the additive systems of biomass equations presented here provided more reliable and accurate biomass predictions than the independent biomass equations fitted by ordinary least square regression. This system of additive biomass equations will prove to be applicable for estimating biomass of poplar plantations in Jiangsu Province of China.
Genealogy: Inaugural Editorial
Authors: Kretsedemas Philip
Published: January 2016

Genealogy is an open-access, quarterly journal that publishes original research and theory online immediately after it has completed the review process. The journal will serve as a venue for cutting edge contributions to the field of genealogy studies; making this scholarly work available to the broadest possible reading audience in a timely manner. [...]