bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New insights into pharmacological tools to TR(i)P cancer up
Authors: Gautier M , Dhennin‐Duthille I , Ay A S , Rybarczyk P , Korichneva I , Ouadid‐Ahidouch H
Published: December 2013

The aim of this review is to address the recent advances regarding the use of pharmacological agents to target transient receptor potential (TRP) channels in cancer and their potential application in therapeutics. Physiologically, TRP channels are responsible for cation entry (Ca2+, Na+, Mg2+) in many mammalian cells and regulate a large number of cellular functions. However, dysfunction in channel expression and/or activity can be linked to human diseases like cancer. Indeed, there is growing evidence that TRP channel expression is altered in cancer tissues in comparison with normal ones. Moreover, these proteins are involved in many cancerous processes, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion, as well as resistance to chemotherapy. Among the TRP superfamily, TRPC, TRPV, TRPM and TRPA1 have been shown to play a role in many cancer types, including breast, digestive, gliomal, head and neck, lung and prostate cancers. Pharmacological modulators are used to characterize the functional implications of TRP channels in whole‐cell membrane currents, resting membrane potential regulation and intracellular Ca2+ signalling. Moreover, pharmacological modulation of TRP activity in cancer cells is systematically linked to the effect on cancerous processes (proliferation, survival, migration, invasion, sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs). Here we describe the effects of such TRP modulators on TRP activity and cancer cell phenotype. Furthermore, the potency and specificity of these agents will be discussed, as well as the development of new strategies for targeting TRP channels in cancer.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on the pharmacology of TRP channels. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue‐10
Predictors of early postoperative pain after stapled haemorrhoidopexy
Authors: Zhao Y. , Ding J.‐H. , Yin S.‐H. , Hou X.‐L. , Zhao K.
Published: December 2013

Aim

Moderate to severe pain after stapled haemorrhoidopexy (SH) is not uncommon. This study was designed to identify the predictors of postoperative pain after SH in a single centre.

Method

Seventy‐six patients with Grade II to IV haemorrhoids who underwent SH were selected from a prospectively compiled database. Preoperative data, including patient characteristics, manometry results and surgical data, were documented. Pain was evaluated during the first 24 h after the operation. Its intensity was classified into three grades according to the visual analogue scale (VAS) score: mild (VAS ≤ 3), moderate (VAS >3 to <5) and severe (VAS ≥ 5). Analgesics were not routinely given but were administered if the patient had moderate or severe pain. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine the predictors of postoperative pain.

Results

Moderate and severe pain was noted in 43 (58.9%) patients. No patient was readmitted due to persistent anal pain during the month following discharge. Postoperative pain was significantly associated with gender (P = 0.017), age (P = 0.014), first initial sensory volume (P = 0.023) and constipation (P = 0.005) in univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis identified male gender as an independent predictor of postoperative moderate to severe pain (P = 0.037, OR = 3.1, 95% CI 1.07−9.09). The initial sensory volume and preoperative coexisting constipation were negative predictors of postoperative moderate to severe pain after SH (P = 0.037, OR = 0.320, 95% CI 0.110−0.934, and P = 0.036, OR = 0.255, 95% CI 0.071−0.913, respectively).

Conclusion

Male gender and the initial sensory volume are predictors of postoperative pain after SH. Anal manometry is recommended before the SH procedure. An active analgesia protocol should be considered for male patients with a low initial sensory volume after SH.
Inter‐observer reliability of computed tomographic classifications of diverticulitis
Authors: Ünlü Ç. , Beenen L. F. M. , Fauquenot J. M. B. , Jensch S. , Bemelman W. A. , Dijkgraaf M. G. W. , Vrouenraets B. C. , Boermeester M. A. , Stoker J.
Published: December 2013

Aim

The wide use of computed tomography (CT) for diverticulitis has initiated new classifications, but their reliability has not been studied. The aim of the study was to assess the inter‐observer agreement of radiologists on the classifications of diverticulitis.

Method

A set of 100 CT examinations of patients with an episode of diverticulitis was used to assess inter‐observer agreement. Cases were derived from two prospective trials and a retrospective cohort to comprise an evenly distributed case mix of patients. The reference standard was the modified Hinchey classification based on all available information. Three blinded radiologists independently read all CT examinations. We calculated the proportion of agreement and kappa values for the Hinchey and Ambrosetti classifications. For the Dharmarajan classification only inter‐observer agreement was calculated.

Results

The agreement with the reference standard was substantial for both the modified Hinchey and the Ambrosetti classifications (P = 0.68 and P = 0.76). Overall inter‐observer agreement for the modified Hinchey classification was substantial (median kappa 0.72), for the Ambrosetti classification almost perfect (median kappa 0.83) and for the Dharmarajan classification substantial (median kappa 0.76).

Conclusion

The Ambrosetti classification is more reproducible than the modified Hinchey and Dharmarajan classifications. The Ambrosetti and modified Hinchey classifications have a substantial agreement with the reference standard and therefore produce a reliable classification. The Dhamarajan is applicable only in complicated diverticulitis and is an important complementary classification to the other more general classifications of diverticulitis.
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy and primary‐first approach for rectal cancer with synchronous liver metastases
Authors: Gall T. M. H. , Basyouny M. , Frampton A. E. , Darzi A. , Ziprin P. , Dawson P. , Paraskeva P. , Habib N. A. , Spalding D. R. C. , Cleator S. , Lowdell C. , Jiao L. R.
Published: December 2013

Aim

Up to a quarter of patients with rectal cancer have synchronous liver metastases at the time of diagnosis. This is a predictor of poor outcome. There are no standardized guidelines for treatment. We reviewed the outcomes of our patients with synchronous rectal liver metastases treated with a curative intent by neoadjuvant chemotherapy with or without chemoradiotherapy followed by resection of the primary tumour and then liver metastases.

Method

Between 2004 and 2012, patients who presented with rectal cancer and synchronous liver metastasis were treated with curative intent with peri‐operative systemic chemotherapy as the first line of treatment. Responders to chemotherapy underwent resection of the primary tumour with or without preoperative chemoradiotherapy followed by hepatic resection.

Results

Fifty‐three rectal cancer patients with 152 synchronous liver lesions were identified. After a median follow‐up of 29.6 months, the median survival was 41.4 months. Overall survival was 59.0% at 3 years and 39.0% at 5 years.

Conclusion

Rectal resection before hepatic resection combined with neoadjuvant chemotherapy is associated with promising clinical outcome. It allows downstaging of liver lesions and removal of the primary tumour before the progression of further micrometastases. Furthermore, patients who do not respond to chemotherapy can be identified and may avoid major surgical intervention.
Effect of physical therapy on muscle strength, respiratory muscles and functional parameters in patients with intensive care unit‐acquired weakness
Authors: Yosef‐Brauner Orna , Adi Nimrod , Ben Shahar Tamar , Yehezkel Ester , Carmeli Eli
Published: December 2013

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of an intensive physical therapy protocol in patients who contract ‘intensive care unit‐acquired weakness’ (ICUAW), in terms of muscle strength, breathing and functional indices.

Methods

This was a prospective, single‐blinded study in a general hospital intensive care unit (ICU). Patients who required mechanical ventilation longer than 48 h and who were expected to remain mechanically ventilated for at least another 48 h were randomly divided into two intervention groups: group I (n = 9) – the routine care group, received physical therapy according to our daily custom protocol; and group II (n = 9) – the intensive treatment group, were treated by the same protocol twice a day. The main outcome measures included the Medical Research Council (MRC) physical strength examination, maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), hand grip dynamometer and sitting balance test.

Results

Significant strength improvement from first (T1) to second (T2) measurements was demonstrated for variables MIP and MRC physical strength examination in favor of the intensive treatment group (P < 0.05). The intensive treatment group also required shorter intensive care length of stay than the routine care group (P = 0.043).

Conclusions

It is possible that an intensive therapy protocol may facilitate the initial recovery process in patients who suffer from ICUAW.
Epidemiology of active tuberculosis in lung cancer patients: a systematic review
Authors: Christopoulos Antonis , Saif Muhammad W. , Sarris Evangelos G. , Syrigos Kostas N.
Published: December 2013

Objectives

The aim of this review article is to evaluate the available literature concerning the prevalence of active tuberculosis in lung cancer patients.

Data Source

MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE and Medscape databases were searched for studies with quantitative data on the interaction between tuberculosis (TB) and lung cancer, published since 1952. We used the Medical Subject Headings' term ‘tuberculosis’ and the text‐word terms ‘TB’ and ‘Mycobacterium infection’, and also, the Medical Subject Headings' terms ‘neoplasm’ and ‘lung neoplasm’, or the text‐word term ‘lung cancer’.

Data Selection

We selected studies with cases verified by bacteriological examinations and biopsies that contained enough data to estimate tuberculosis prevalence. We did not exclude any study on the basis of language.

Results

The prevalence of active tuberculosis among lung cancer patients varies depending on spatial and regional factors. Lung cancer patients who are more prone to developing tuberculosis are Asian and Caucasian males, with an average age of 60 years old. The prevalence of tuberculosis is higher in patients with chest X‐ray evidence of old tuberculosis and/or history of tuberculosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heavy cigarette smoking, increased alcohol consumption, and/or diabetes mellitus. A high mortality rate because of tuberculosis in lung cancer patients was also estimated.

Conclusion

Active tuberculosis complicating lung cancer is a significant clinical issue in countries with high prevalence of tuberculosis. However, as the there is a lack of reports from developed countries over the last 20 years, the significance of this interaction in countries with low tuberculosis burden remains controversial.
Scarlet macawAra macao cyanopteraconservation programme inMexico
Authors: Raigoza Figueras R.
Published: December 2013

InMexico, theScarlet macawAra macao cyanopterahas been extirpated from the states ofTamaulipas,Veracruz,Oaxaca (with the possible exception of a subpopulation ofc.50 birds in theChimalapas region, although there have been no recorded sightings of these birds in the last decade),Tabasco andCampeche. At the time of writing, the wild population comprises only 150–250 birds mainly located in theLacandonJungle inChiapas. The drastic reduction in theScarlet macaw population inMexico is related to an accelerated loss of their habitat and anthropogenic factors, such as illegal trade. It is evident that theScarlet macaw is currently subject to very high pressures with clear indications that wild populations will disappear from theJungle in the next 10 years. In 1993,Xcaret began a programme ofScarlet macaw reproduction in captivity, developing and using the best protocols for hand rearing, and establishing new procedures to facilitate parental rearing of the chicks without human intervention. The aim is to rear captive‐bred macaws that will adapt to the wild successfully and not require post‐release supplemental feeding. Endoscopy techniques have been used to determine gender and match the pairs in more than 100 enclosures. Since 2007 reintroduction procedures, developed in partnership withAcajunglaA.C.,AluxesEcoparquePalenque and some scientists of theUniversidadNacionalAutónoma deMéxico, have culminated in the release of 36 Scarlet macaws in 2013 in three events, on 21April (17), 29June (11) and 11August (8).
Early Human Evolution and the Skulls of Dmanisi
Authors: Craze Paul
Published: December 2013

Who were our ancestors? A recently analysed skull has made headlines. Homo habilis, Homo erectus, Heidelberg Man: were they all separate species as believed until now, or variations of just one? Paul Craze takes a look at the variations between and within species that shape the controversy.
Who's Afraid of George Kingsley Zipf? Or: Do Children and Chimps have Language?
Authors: Yang Charles
Published: December 2013

Every parent hears their child's first words with pride. Phrases like “A doggie” soon follow. Or is it sometimes “The doggie”? The difference sheds light on when children (or chimps) first acquire true language – once we have taken Zipf's law and yodelling turtles into account. Charles Yang explains.
When the Gambler's Fallacy Comes True: Beating the Online Casino
Authors: Peacock Eloise
Published: December 2013

It sounds so simple and seductive: bet on a number coming up on a roulette wheel, increase your next bet to cover past losses, and carry on until you win, and win and win. It worked for Eloise Peacock — virtually, at least…
Analysis of the Esthetic Outcome after Root Coverage Procedures Using a Comprehensive Approach
Authors: Kim Sung Mi , Choi Youn Hee , Kim Yong Gun , Park Jin Woo , Lee Jae Mok , Suh Jo Young
Published: December 2013

Statement of the Problem

There is a reported gap between the relative satisfaction of the clinician and patient after a root coverage procedure. In addition, there may also be a disparity between objective esthetic evaluation tools and subjective satisfaction.

Methods

This study included 58 sites in 31 patients who had undergone root coverage procedures. The percentage of root coverage and the root coverage esthetic score system were used as objective measurements. A questionnaire with a five‐point ordinal scale was used for subjective evaluation. Initial recession depth and width, Miller classification, tissue biotype, treatment procedures, and follow‐up periods were considered as associated factors.

Results

After a period of at least 6 months from the procedure, the patient‐perceived outcome showed a better match with the root coverage esthetic scoring system than the percentage of root coverage alone. A lower value for objective outcome was obtained for a deeper gingival recession and higher Miller class, but the subjective outcome displayed a steady trend. All four esthetic results were at their lowest after an epithelialized free soft tissue graft.

Conclusion

An esthetic outcome according to patient satisfaction was not always consistent with that determined by professional scoring. In addition, partial root coverage may be viewed as a positive outcome by patients and clinicians in cases of deep gingival recession and high Miller class.

Clinical Significance

This study evaluates the esthetic outcome of root coverage procedures using an objective method, including the percentage of root coverage, root coverage esthetic scoring system, and subjective assessment by patient and clinician‐based questionnaires. The results will be helpful for the understanding of the differences that exist in esthetic satisfaction.
Minimally Invasive Preparation and Design of a Cantilevered, All‐Ceramic, Resin‐Bonded, Fixed Partial Denture in the Esthetic Zone: A Case Report and Descriptive Review
Authors: Barwacz Christopher A. , Hernandez Marcela , Husemann R. Henry
Published: December 2013

Resin‐bonded, fixed partial dentures have the potential to offer a minimally invasive, fixed‐prosthetic approach to tooth replacement in patients who may not be candidates for implant therapy. However, traditional preparation protocols often recommend extensive preparation designs on two abutment teeth, thereby potentially compromising the long‐term health of the adjacent abutments and often resulting in unilateral debonding of one of the retainers in the long term. In light of advances in high‐strength ceramic systems capable of being reliably bonded to tooth structure and offering improved esthetic outcomes, as well as clinical and case‐series research demonstrating improved survivability of cantilevered resin‐bonded fixed partial dentures, new preparation designs and methodologies can be advocated. The following case report demonstrates the clinical application of sonoabrasion, coupled with a dental operating microscope, to minimally prepare a single abutment for a cantilevered, all‐ceramic resin‐bonded fixed partial denture. Relevant historic and contemporary literature regarding double versus single‐retainer resin‐bonded fixed partial dentures are reviewed, as well as clinical conditions that are most favorable for such restorations to have an optimal long‐term prognosis.

Clinical Significance

If appropriate clinical conditions exist, a cantilevered, all‐ceramic, resin‐bonded, fixed partial denture may be the most conservative means of tooth replacement in a patient who is not a candidate for an endosseous implant.
A new thermodynamic model for sapphirine: calculated phase equilibria in K2O–FeO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O–TiO2–Fe2O3
Authors: Wheller C. J. , Powell R.
Published: December 2013

The activity–composition (a–x) relations of sapphirine are re‐evaluated in the light of a recent new internally‐consistent data set of phase end‐members for use in phase equilibria modelling, particularly of ultra‐high‐temperature (UHT) rocks. This is achieved with the aid of relatively oxidized sapphirine+quartz‐bearing granulites from Wilson Lake, Canada. Calculated P–T projections and compatibility diagrams in the K2O–FeO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O–TiO2–Fe2O3 (KFMASHTO) system are used to illustrate sapphirine+quartz‐bearing phase equilibria in the context of UHT metamorphism. These new a–x relations for sapphirine should allow pseudosection thermobarometry in NCKFMASHTO for estimating peak P–T conditions of sapphirine‐bearing rocks.
Meaning‐in‐life in nursing‐home patients: a correlate with physical and emotional symptoms
Authors: Haugan Gørill
Published: December 2013

Aims and objectives

To investigate the prevalence of physical and emotional symptoms and the associations between symptoms and meaning‐in‐life in a cognitively intact nursing‐home population.

Background

Meaning has been found to be a strong individual predictor of successful ageing and life satisfaction as well as an important psychological variable that promotes well‐being. Meaning serves as a mediating variable in both psychological and physical health.

Design and methods

The study employed a cross‐sectional design. Data were collected in 2008 and 2009 using the QLQ‐C15‐PAL quality‐of‐life questionnaire, the purpose‐in‐life test and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. A total of 250 cognitively intact nursing‐home patients who met the inclusion criteria were approached and 202 attended.

Results

The prevalence of symptoms was fairly high, with fatigue (57%), pain (49%), constipation (43%) and dyspnoea (41%) as the most frequent physical symptoms, while 30% were depressed and 12% had anxiety. Significant correlations between meaning‐in‐life and symptom severity were displayed.

Conclusions

The level of symptom severity among cognitively intact nursing‐home patients is high, requiring highly competent staff nurses. Meaning‐in‐life might be an important resource in relation to a patient's physical and emotional health and global well‐being.

Relevance to clinical practice

Facilitating patients' meaning‐in‐life might help reducing symptom severity and fostering quality of life in cognitively intact nursing‐home patients. However, advancing staff nurses' competence in palliative care, symptom management and nurse–patient interaction is important for care quality and quality if life in nursing homes.
Role of melatonin in alleviating cold stress in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Bajwa Vikramjit S. , Shukla Mukund R. , Sherif Sherif M. , Murch Susan J. , Saxena Praveen K.
Published: December 2013

Melatonin (N‐acetyl‐5‐methoxytryptamine) has been implicated in abiotic and biotic stress tolerance in plants. However, information on the effects of melatonin in cold‐stress tolerance in vivo is limited. In this study, the effect of melatonin was investigated in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana challenged with a cold stress at 4⁰C for 72 and 120 hr. Melatonin‐treated plants (10 and 30 μm) had significantly higher fresh weight, primary root length, and shoot height compared with the nontreated plants. To aid in the understanding of the role of melatonin in alleviating cold stress, we investigated the effects of melatonin treatment on the expression of cold‐related genes. Melatonin up‐regulated the expression of C‐repeat‐binding factors (CBFs)/Drought Response Element Binding factors (DREBs), a cold‐responsive gene, COR15a, a transcription factor involved in freezing and drought‐stress tolerance CAMTA1 and transcription activators of reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐related antioxidant genes, ZAT10 and ZAT12, following cold stress. The up‐regulation of cold signaling genes by melatonin may stimulate the biosynthesis of cold‐protecting compounds and contribute to the increased growth of plants treated with exogenous melatonin under cold stress.
Cardiac Biomarkers in Hyperthyroid Cats
Authors: Sangster J.K. , Panciera D.L. , Abbott J.A. , Zimmerman K.C. , Lantis A.C.
Published: December 2013

Background

Hyperthyroidism has substantial effects on the circulatory system. The cardiac biomarkers NT‐proBNP and troponin I (cTNI) have proven useful in identifying cats with myocardial disease but have not been extensively investigated in hyperthyroidism.

Hypothesis

Plasma NT‐proBNP and cTNI concentrations are higher in cats with primary myocardial disease than in cats with hyperthyroidism and higher in cats with hyperthyroidism than in healthy control cats.

Animals

Twenty‐three hyperthyroid cats, 17 cats with subclinical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and 19 euthyroid, normotensive healthy cats ≥8 years of age. Fourteen of the hyperthyroid cats were re‐evaluated 3 months after administration of radioiodine (131I).

Methods

Complete history, physical examination, complete blood count, serum biochemistries, urinalysis, blood pressure measurement, serum T4 concentration, plasma concentrations of NT‐proBNP and cTNI, and echocardiogram were obtained prospectively from each cat.

Results

Hyperthyroid cats and cats with HCM had plasma NT‐proBNP and cTNI concentrations that were significantly higher than those of healthy cats, but there was no significant difference between hyperthyroid cats and cats with HCM with respect to the concentration of either biomarker. In hyperthyroid cats that were re‐evaluated 3 months after 131I treatment, plasma NT‐proBNP and cTNI concentrations as well as ventricular wall thickness had decreased significantly.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Although there may be a role for NT‐proBNP in monitoring the cardiac response to treatment of hyperthyroidism, neither NT‐proBNP nor cTNI distinguish hypertrophy associated with hyperthyroidism from primary HCM. Therefore, the thyroid status of older cats should be ascertained before interpreting NT‐proBNP and cTNI concentrations.
Effect of Body Weight Loss on Cardiopulmonary Function Assessed by 6‐Minute Walk Test and Arterial Blood Gas Analysis in Obese Dogs
Authors: Manens J. , Ricci R. , Damoiseaux C. , Gault S. , Contiero B. , Diez M. , Clercx C.
Published: December 2013

Background

Few studies show the detrimental effect of canine obesity on cardiopulmonary function (CPF). The 6‐Minute Walk Test (6MWT) is a noninvasive exercise test easy to perform in clinical settings.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of obesity and body weight loss (BWL) on CPF assessed by the 6MWT and arterial blood gas analysis.

Animals

Six experimental Beagles and 9 privately owned obese dogs were enrolled in a diet‐induced BWL program.

Methods

Arterial blood gas analysis and 6MWT were repeated in obese subjects (BCS 8‐9/9), in the middle of BWL (overweight, BCS 6‐7/9), and in lean dogs (BCS 5/9). Heart rate (HRp) and oxygen saturation (SpO2) were measured by pulse oximetry before the 6MWT, at midtest, and during a 5‐minute recovery period.

Results

Twelve dogs completed the BWL program (initial BW, 27.3 ± 2.9 kg; final BW, 20.85 ± 2.9, lsmeans ± SE, P ≤ .001). BWL caused a significant increase in 6MWT walked distance (WD; obese: 509 ± 35 m; overweight: 575 ± 36 m; lean: 589 ± 36 m; P ≤ .05). Resting arterial blood gas results were not influenced by BWL. Including all time points, obese dogs showed higher HRp and lower SpO2 compared to overweight and lean dogs. SpO2 at the end of the walk was significantly lower in obese dogs.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Obesity negatively affects 6MWT performances in dogs. The 6MWT may be used to demonstrate the efficacy of BWL to improve CPF and quality of life in obese dogs. Although BWL induced significant improvement of cardiopulmonary parameters before ideal BW, WD improved until the end of the BWL program.
A functional polymorphism in ADAR1 gene affects HBsAg seroclearance both spontaneously and interferon induced
Authors: Wu Xiaopan , Shi Weimei , Wu Jia , Zhu Xilin , Chen Kangmei , Zheng Sujun , Li Zhuo , Duan Zhongping , Li Hui , Liu Ying
Published: December 2013

Background & Aims

Our previous study found that rs4845384 in ADAR1 gene to be associated with HBeAg seroconversion. However, the effect of rs4845384 on HBsAg seroclearance is unknown. To assess the relationship between rs4845384 and HBsAg seroclearance.

Methods

Two independent case–control studies were conducted to test whether rs4845384 in ADAR1 was associated with HBsAg clearance. Reporter gene assays and quantitative PCR experiments were also carried out to verify the functional significances of this polymorphism.

Results and Conclusions

The rs4845384 polymorphism was associated with HBsAg seroclearance both spontaneously (P = 0.028, OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.03–1.78) and interferon induced (P = 0.013, OR = 1.83, 95% CI = 1.13–2.96), in a total of 725 subjects. Luciferase assays showed that pGL3‐rs4845384G constructs had higher expression level than pGL3‐rs4845384A constructs, especially in HepG2. 2.15 cell line. Quantitative real‐time RT‐PCR showed that chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients had lower ADAR1 mRNA level than healthy individuals. The AA carriers of rs4845384 had lower ADAR1 mRNA expression than non‐AA carriers. The non‐response susceptible allele rs4845384A was functional for regulation of ADAR1 expression, so as to influence HBsAg seroclearance of CHB patients.
Bacterial profiling of White Plague Disease across corals and oceans indicates a conserved and distinct disease microbiome
Authors: Roder Cornelia , Arif Chatchanit , Daniels Camille , Weil Ernesto , Voolstra Christian R.
Published: December 2013

Coral diseases are characterized by microbial community shifts in coral mucus and tissue, but causes and consequences of these changes are vaguely understood due to the complexity and dynamics of coral‐associated bacteria. We used 16S rRNA gene microarrays to assay differences in bacterial assemblages of healthy and diseased colonies displaying White Plague Disease (WPD) signs from two closely related Caribbean coral species, Orbicella faveolata and Orbicella franksi. Analysis of differentially abundant operational taxonomic units (OTUs) revealed strong differences between healthy and diseased specimens, but not between coral species. A subsequent comparison to data from two Indo‐Pacific coral species (Pavona duerdeni and Porites lutea) revealed distinct microbial community patterns associated with ocean basin, coral species and health state. Coral species were clearly separated by site, but also, the relatedness of the underlying bacterial community structures resembled the phylogenetic relationship of the coral hosts. In diseased samples, bacterial richness increased and putatively opportunistic bacteria were consistently more abundant highlighting the role of opportunistic conditions in structuring microbial community patterns during disease. Our comparative analysis shows that it is possible to derive conserved bacterial footprints of diseased coral holobionts that might help in identifying key bacterial species related to the underlying etiopathology. Furthermore, our data demonstrate that similar‐appearing disease phenotypes produce microbial community patterns that are consistent over coral species and oceans, irrespective of the putative underlying pathogen. Consequently, profiling coral diseases by microbial community structure over multiple coral species might allow the development of a comparative disease framework that can inform on cause and relatedness of coral diseases.
Adaptation and exogenous selection in aPicea glauca×Picea engelmanniihybrid zone: implications for forest management under climate change
Authors: De La Torre Amanda R. , Wang Tongli , Jaquish Barry , Aitken Sally N.
Published: December 2013

The nature of selection responsible for the maintenance of the economically and ecologically importantPicea glauca × Picea engelmanniihybrid zone was investigated. Genomic, phenotypic and climatic data were used to test assumptions of hybrid zone maintenance and to model future scenarios under climate change.

Genome‐wide estimates of admixture based on a panel of 86 candidate gene single nucleotide polymorphisms were combined with long‐term quantitative data on growth and survival (over 20 yr), as well as one‐time assessments of bud burst and bud set phenology, and cold hardiness traits. A total of 15 498 individuals were phenotyped for growth and survival.

Our results suggest that theP. glauca × P. engelmanniihybrid zone is maintained by local adaptation to growing season length and snowpack (exogenous selection). Hybrids appeared to be fitter than pure species in intermediate environments, which fits expectations of the bounded hybrid superiority model of hybrid zone maintenance. Adaptive introgression from parental species has probably contributed to increased hybrid fitness in intermediate habitats.

WhileP. engelmanniiancestry is higher thanP. glaucaancestry in hybrid populations, on average, selective breeding in managed hybrid populations is shifting genomic composition towardsP. glauca, potentially pre‐adapting managed populations to warmer climates.
Pain pathways and pre‐emptive and protective analgesia for oral surgery
Authors: Coulthard P. , Bailey E. , Patel N. , Coulthard M.B.
Published: December 2013

Aim

To describe the scientific basis of the contemporary management of pain after oral surgery.

Materials and methods

A review of the literature describing the concepts of pre‐emptive and protective analgesia and evidence‐based practice in the context of managing pain after oral surgery.

Results

Pain is the consequence of the interplay of numerous chemical mediators and a dynamic and plastic neuronal system, and so pain prevention and management requires the use of different classes of analgesic that act by different mechanisms and at different sites of action, ideally resulting in synergistic analgesia with few side effects.

Conclusions

Management can be challenging, particularly as much oral surgery is undertaken on an outpatient and day‐case basis, but significant improvement can be made to the patient's experience by considering the underlying mechanisms.
Requirement of ABA signalling‐mediated stomatal closure for resistance of wild tobacco to Alternaria alternata
Authors: Sun H. , Hu X. , Ma J. , Hettenhausen C. , Wang L. , Sun G. , Wu J. , Wu J.
Published: December 2013

Abscisic acid (ABA) is important for mediating abiotic stress responses and also in plant immunity. Its involvement in the resistance of wild tobacco Nicotiana attenuata to the pathogenic fungus Alternaria alternata, tobacco pathotype, was investigated. After infection, many fungal hyphae were observed to enter leaf tissue through stomata within 24 h, and necrotic lesions were formed after 3–6 days. Importantly, source–sink transition leaves (leaf 0) were more resistant than all fully expanded ones, and this was correlated with more ABA and ABA‐related gene transcripts and lower stomatal conductance in leaf 0 after infection. When supplied with ABA or incubated in the dark for 1 day, fully expanded leaves, which accumulated less ABA and showed higher stomatal conductance after infection in comparison to leaf 0, showed increased resistance. Mitogen‐activated protein kinase 4‐silenced plants, in which ABA‐induced stomatal closure responses and resistance to A. alternata were highly impaired, did not show stomatal conductance change after infection, and leaf 0 and fully expanded leaves all developed bigger lesions than in wildtype plants. Thus the ABA signalling pathway mediated by NaMPK4 is required for the resistance of N. attenuata to A. alternata, at least in part through the stomatal closure responses.
Local Governance Versus Centralization: Connecticut Wetlands Governance as a Model
Authors: Owens Katharine , Zimmerman Carl
Published: December 2013

Scholars disagree whether local decision making is inherently more democratic and sustainable than centralized governance structures. While some maintain it is, due to the incorporation of local knowledge, citizen decision makers' closeness to the issues, and the benefits of participatory democracy, others find it as susceptible to issues of corruption and poor implementation as any other scale. We argue that with wetlands, a natural resource with critical local benefits, it is imperative to incorporate local governance, using the U.S. state of Connecticut as an example. Despite the American policy of No Net Loss, the local benefits of wetland resources cannot be aggregated on a national scale. Each local ecosystem needs wetland resources to ensure local ecological benefits such as flood control and pollution remission, as well as the substantial economic benefits of recreation. We illustrate the benefits of local control of wetlands with data from the American state of Connecticut, which consistently surpasses the federal wetland goal of No Net Loss due, we argue, to the governance structure of town‐level wetlands commissions. A national policy such as No Net Loss, where wetlands are saved or created in designated areas and destroyed in others, is insufficient when it ignores critical benefits for localities. The Connecticut system using local volunteers and unpaid appointees is a successful method for governing common‐pool wetland systems. In the case of Connecticut, we find that local decision making is not a “trap,” but instead an effective model of sustainable, democratic local governance.
PLANT LOCATIONS WITH REVERSE IMPORTS IN THE PRESENCE OF UNEMPLOYMENT
Authors: Lee Ki‐Dong , Lee Woohyung
Published: December 2013

In this paper, we develop a location model of two multi‐national firms (MNFs) with reverse imports and examine the consistency of MNFs' location shift in terms of social welfare in the foreign direct investment (FDI) source (home) country. If fixed costs are incurred in FDI, trade liberalization induces a gradual overseas production by MNFs. When an unemployment problem exists in the home country, firms tend to undertake FDI at a lower level of trade liberalization, compared to the socially desirable level. As a result of the presence of a foreign rival firm, FDI by a home firm benefits the home country given that another home firm chooses foreign production. On the other hand, because of the negative effect of unemployment on social welfare, FDI by a home firm hurts the home country given that another home firm chooses domestic production. Hence, the government of the FDI source country might use subsidy‐tax policies in order to induce the MNFs to choose a socially desirable production location.
More New Wine in the Same Old Bottles? The Evolving Nature of the CAP Reform Debate in Europe, and Prospects for the Future
Authors: Rutz Cordula , Dwyer Janet , Schramek Jőrg
Published: December 2013

Europe's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), its evolving role and financial and political significance have long been hot topics among rural stakeholders. This article analyses a ten‐country study examining the nature and key points of discussion concerning the new reform of the CAP, finally agreed in September 2013. The study examined stakeholder views on the Commission's November 2010 Communication, the Impact Assessment and the October 2011 draft legislative proposals for the 2014–2020 period. Case‐studies for each country and comparative analysis were used to stimulate discussion at an international policy conference in early 2012. The article updates Erjavec et al.'s analysis of the changing discourse in Brussels, contrasting its move from a neoliberal to a more neo‐mercantilist position, with the nuanced, heavily path‐dependent attitudes and negotiating stances in the Member States, even when key interest groups express consistent views across national boundaries. In this context, we see why what looked from Brussels like a consensus‐oriented package still failed to offer a clear way forward for the Council and Parliament. Taking stock in October 2013, we note the outcome – a potentially greener and slightly more cohesion‐sensitive policy, with weaker differentiation between its pillars but much increased national differentiation – and its future implications.
Structure in multilayer films of zinc sulfide and copper sulfide via atomic layer deposition
Authors: Short Andrew , Jewell Leila , Bielecki Anthony , Keiber Trevor , Bridges Frank , Carter Sue , Alers Glenn
Published: December 2013

Multilayer film stacks of ZnS and CuxS (x ∼ 2) were made via atomic layer deposition. The precursors were bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedionato)zinc, bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedionato)copper, and H2S generated in situ for sulfur. Samples were deposited at 200 °C, in layers ranging from approximately 2 to 20 nm thick, based on binary growth rates. The properties of the film stacks were studied with atomic force microscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, and extended x-ray absorption fine structure. The results demonstrate that the structure of films with the thinnest layers is dominated by CuxS, whereas in the thicker films, the structure is determined by whichever material is first deposited. This can be attributed to the crystal structure mismatch of ZnS and CuxS.
Agreement Between Activity-Monitoring Devices During Home Rehabilitation: A Substudy of the AAA STOP Trial
Authors: Myers Jonathan , Dupain Mandi , Vu Andrew , Jaffe Alyssa , Smith Kimberly , Fonda Holly , Dalman Ronald
Published: December 2013

As part of a home-based rehabilitation program, 24 older adult patients (71 ± 3 years) with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) disease underwent 3 days (12 awake hr/day) of activity monitoring using an accelerometer (ACC), a pedometer, and a heart rate (HR) monitor, and recorded hourly activity logs. Subjects then underwent an interview to complete a 3-day activity recall questionnaire (3-DR). Mean energy expenditure (EE) in kcals/ day for HR, ACC, and 3-DR were 1,687 ± 458, 2,068 ± 529, and 1,974 ± 491, respectively. Differences in EE were not significant between 3-DR and ACC, but HR differed from both ACC (p < .001) and 3-DR (p < .01). ACC and 3-DR had the highest agreement, with a coefficient of variation of 7.9% and r = .86. Thus, ACC provided a reasonably accurate reflection of EE based the criterion measure, an activity recall questionnaire. ACC can be effectively used to monitor EE to achieve an appropriate training stimulus during home-based cardiac rehabilitation.
Scottish Country Dance: Benefits to Functional Ability in Older Women
Authors: Dewhurst Susan , Nelson Norah , Dougall Paul K. , Bampouras Theodoros M.
Published: December 2013

The effects of long-term participation in Scottish country dance on body composition, functional ability, and balance in healthy older females were examined. Participants were grouped into dancers and physically active nondancers (ages 60–70 and 70–80 for both groups). Physical activity, body composition (body-mass index, skinfold thickness, waist-to-hip ratio), functional ability (6-min walk distance, 6-m walk time, 8-ft up-and-go time, lower body flexibility, shoulder flexibility), and static balance were measured. Younger dancers and physically active nondancers had similar 6-min walk distance, 6-m walk time, and 8-ft up-and-go time results; however, while older dancers performed similarly to younger dancers, older physically active nondancers performed poorer than their younger counterparts (p < .05). Body composition and static balance were the same for all groups. Regular physical activity can maintain body composition and postural stability with advancing age; however, Scottish country dance can delay the effects of aging on locomotion-related functional abilities.
Interventions designed to reduce sedentary behaviours in young people: a review of reviews
Authors: Biddle Stuart J H , Petrolini Irene , Pearson Natalie
Published: December 2013

Background

Leisure time is increasingly spent in sedentary pursuits such as screen-viewing (eg, television/DVD viewing and computer use), motorised travel, school/work and sitting-based socialising (eg, social media and chatting). Sedentary screen time, particularly TV, appears to play an important role in the aetiology of obesity due to its co-occurrence with other unhealthy behaviours such as snacking on energy-dense foods, low levels of physical activity and inadequate sleep. More information is needed on how to reduce sedentary behaviours. Most interventions have focused on young people and a number of systematic reviews exist on this topic.

Objective

To synthesise systematic reviews and meta-analyses of interventions aimed at decreasing sedentary behaviours among children and adolescents.

Methods

Papers were located from computerised and manual searches. Included articles were English language systematic reviews or meta-analyses of interventions aiming at reducing sedentary behaviour in children (<11 years) and adolescents (12–18 years).

Results

Ten papers met the inclusion criteria and were analysed. All reviews concluded some level of effectiveness in reducing time spent in sedentary behaviour. When an effect size was reported, there was a small but significant reduction in sedentary time (highest effect size=−0.29; CI −0.35 to −0.22). Moderator analyses showed a trend favouring interventions with children younger than 6 years. Effective strategies include the involvement of family, behavioural interventions and electronic TV monitoring devices.

Conclusions

Results from systematic reviews and meta-analyses show that interventions to reduce children's sedentary behaviour have a small but significant effect. Future research should expand these findings examining interventions targeting different types of sedentary behaviours and the effectiveness of specific behaviour change techniques across different contexts and settings.
Two new species of Inocybe from Australia and North America that include novel secotioid forms
Authors: Braaten Christine C. , Matheny P. Brandon , Viess Debra L. , Wood Michael G. , Williams Joseph H. , Bougher Neale L.
Published: December 2013

The secotioid form of fruit bodies of mushroom-forming fungi may be an intermediate evolutionary modification of epigeous agaricoid or pileate–stipitate forms (i.e., with pileus, spore-bearing tissues, and stipe) and typically hypogeous, gasteroid- or truffle-forming species, in which the fruit bodies have been reduced to enclosed structures containing modified spore-producing tissues. To date, only a single secotioid species (Auritella geoaustralis Matheny & Bougher ex Matheny & Bougher) has been described in the ectomycorrhizal family Inocybaceae, a hyperdiverse clade of ca. 500–700 species with a cosmopolitan distribution. Fieldwork in Australia and western North America, however, has revealed two novel secotioid forms of Inocybe (Fr.) Fr., the first to be formally described in the genus. In this investigation, we analyze their phylogenetic relationships using molecular sequence data from multiple unlinked loci to test whether these are environmental variants of agaricoid forms or represent independent lineages. Results of phylogenetic analyses suggest these fungi have converged to the secotioid form independently. However, the California secotioid taxon (Inocybe multifolia f. cryptophylla f. nov.) is a phenotypic variant of the newly described agaricoid taxon (Inocybe multifolia sp. nov.). Similarly, the Australian secotioid form (Inocybe bicornis f. secotioides f. nov.) is nested within a clade of otherwise agaricoid forms of a second novel species (Inocybe bicornis sp. nov.) described from southwest Western Australia. Overall, four species with sequestrate forms within Inocybaceae can now be recognized, three of which are distributed in Australia and one in western North America, in the genera Auritella and Inocybe.
IMPROVEMENT IN MOBILITY AND CONDUCTIVITY OF FEW-LAYER MoS2 FILMS
Authors: MA XIYING , HE JIE , CHEN KANGYE , LIN LA
Published: December 2013

We present a study of the influence of annealing and doping on the electrical properties of few-layer (FL) MoS 2 films on Si and quartz substrates deposited using a self-designed metal sulfide chemical vapor deposition (MSCVD) system. FL MoS 2 slices obtained through MSCVD, in the size range of 50–200 nm, were found to be uniformly scattered on the substrates. The conductivity and mobility of these films are greatly enhanced after annealing at 650–850°C. The largest mobility measured for pure MoS 2 on quartz substrate is 6.4×103 cm 2/ Vs , almost two orders of magnitude larger than that of bulk MoS 2 (500 cm2/Vs). We deduce that the superior charge carrier mobility in our sample is mainly attributed to reduced phonon scattering because of a lower carrier density (1010-1011 cm -2) compared to previously documented values (1012-1013 cm -2). Additionally, the conductivity and carrier concentration of FL MoS 2 films were enhanced by about two orders of magnitude compared to those of the as-grown films doped with Cu , Na and Ag ions but not doped with B ions. The films doped with Na and Ag exhibit characteristic p-type conductivity, while those doped with Cu and B exhibit n-type conductivity. Moreover, the MoS 2/ Si heterojunction exhibited good rectification characteristics and excellent conductivity, indicating that the FL MoS 2 films will find many applications in high-efficiency nanodevices.
FLUX EXCHANGE IN INHOMOGENEOUS TYPE-II SUPERCONDUCTORS
Authors: MA RONGCHAO
Published: December 2013

The vortex hopping motion in a type-II superconductor determines the current-carrying ability and consequently, the application fields of the superconductor. However, it is not clear how the vortices hop between the different pinning regions in the superconductor. Here, we proposed that there should be magnetic flux exchange between two contacting pinning regions. A system of differential equations was constructed to describe the flux exchange phenomenon. The qualitative analysis methods and approximate methods were used. The approximate solutions of the system were obtained. The results show that the flux exchange reduces the internal field in a weak pinning region, but increases the internal field in a strong pinning region. Moreover, the flux exchange is strongly influenced by the superconductor's geometrical size.