bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Species traits and plant performance: functional trade‐offs in a large set of species in a botanical garden
Authors: Herben Tomáš , Nováková Zuzana , Klimešová Jitka , Hrouda Lubomír
Published: May 2013

Earlier research has established a number of relationships between community structure and plant traits. However, these relationships are mediated by demographic processes that are constrained, but not determined, by the trait values, and involve responses of plants to their environments. In particular, life‐history costs and associated trade‐offs need to be examined at the level of demographic processes such as plant survival and reproduction, not only at the level of individual trait values.

We examined these demographic trade‐offs using data on vegetative and seed reproduction from 951 species of the Central European flora kept in the Botanical Garden of Charles University in Prague. With each species grown under conditions close to its natural habitat, we view the data as information on vegetative and seed reproduction under favourable conditions. We used nonparametric tests and ordinal regressions to examine relationships of the vegetative and seed reproduction to each other, as well as to commonly used traits such as plant height, leaf size, specific leaf area, seed size and clonal traits.

There was an overall negative correlation between seed and vegetative reproduction, indicating trade‐off between these two modes of reproduction. In contrast, there was no evidence of a trade‐off between clonal and seed traits.

Traits of clonal growth were related to vegetative reproduction in the garden and seed trait to seed reproduction in the garden. Further, there were correlations between seed reproduction and clonal traits and vice versa. These results suggest that seed reproduction is associated with a wider array of traits than only seed traits, and vegetative reproduction with a wider array than clonal traits again indicating complex life‐history relationships. These relationships did not change substantially after the incorporation of phylogenetic information.

Synthesis. The results suggest that trade‐offs between vegetative and seed reproduction are not revealed by analysis of species traits, probably due to the fact that trade‐offs often only arise due to life‐history costs that are shaped by the local environment. This highlights the importance of examining life‐history processes associated with trait values.
A general modelling framework for resource‐ratio and CSR theories of plant community dynamics
Authors: Jabot Franck , Pottier Julien
Published: May 2013

Grime's CSR and Tilman's resource‐ratio theories are two major contributions to our understanding of plant community dynamics. They have both been corroborated empirically, whilst providing several contradictory predictions. Notably, contrary to Tilman, Grime predicts that competition for soil resources is unimportant on poor soils.

We show that Grime's CSR theory can be modelled with the same type of differential equations for resource and plant biomass dynamics used by Tilman in his resource‐ratio theory.

Using this unified modelling framework, we demonstrate that both models predict intense competition for soil resources on poor soils, as long as biomass loss per unit mass is modelled as a size‐independent process. When considering biomass loss per unit mass as a size‐dependent process mimicking farming activities, both models predict a unimodal relationship between soil fertility and the intensity of soil resource competition, and a decreasing relationship between disturbance rate and resource competition.

Synthesis. Our modelling analysis reveals that the resource‐ratio and CSR theories make different predictions regarding competition on poor soils, not because of their differing schemes of plant strategies, but because of the different disturbance types that they are considering. Tilman's predictions apply to little disturbed natural habitats, whilst Grime's predictions apply to disturbed ones.
Seed size and provenance mediate the joint effects of disturbance and seed predation on community assembly
Authors: Maron John L. , Pearson Dean E. , Potter Teal , Ortega Yvette K.
Published: May 2013

Local plant community assembly is influenced by a series of filters that affect the recruitment and establishment of species. These filters include regional factors that limit seeds of any given species from reaching a local site as well as local interactions such as post‐dispersal seed predation and disturbance, which dictate what species actually establish. How these filters interact to influence recruitment into local assemblages, and whether they act differentially on individual species based on traits such as seed size or their provenance (i.e. native vs. exotic), has not been well examined. Such studies, however, are crucial for understanding community assembly and for making predictions about what species might be favoured under specific ecological circumstances.

We added 20 native and 19 exotic species that varied in seed size to undisturbed or experimentally disturbed subplots in and out of larger rodent exclusion plots at ten grassland sites across the Blackfoot River drainage in western Montana, USA.

Individually, exclusion of rodent seed predators and disturbance substantially increased cumulative (summed across all species) seedling recruitment. Exclusion of rodent seed predators enhanced recruitment to a greater extent in disturbed rather than undisturbed plots and for native species compared with exotics, while disturbance enhanced recruitment to a greater extent for exotics compared with natives. Examination of individual species responses indicated that results were generalizable across species within each group and not driven by the response of a few species.

Seed size mediated these patterns. Notably, the positive effect of rodent exclusion on recruitment was greater for large‐ versus small‐seeded species, while the impact of disturbance on recruitment was more pronounced for small‐seeded exotics relative to other groups.

Synthesis. These results reveal that local ‘filters’ such as post‐dispersal seed predation and disturbance can individually and collectively impose strong limitation on seedling recruitment into local assemblages. Seed size importantly predicts how strongly individual species are influenced by these local filters. Interestingly, in situ community filters have differential effects on native versus exotic species, suggesting that processes that limit native recruitment may not have the same inhibitory influence on exotics.
Differential seedling establishment of woody plants along a tree density gradient in Neotropical savannas
Authors: Salazar Ana , Goldstein Guillermo , Franco Augusto C. , Miralles‐Wilhelm Fernando
Published: May 2013

Seedling dynamics are crucial for understanding spatial plant distribution patterns, yet little is known about seedling establishment in Neotropical savannas because empirical studies at the community level are scarce.

Over 2 years, we studied the recruitment and survival of an initial seedling assemblage and three cohorts of recruits of woody plants within 216 plots of 1 m2 located along a tree density gradient in the savannas of central Brazil. These savannas differ in tree density and canopy cover, from closed (high canopy cover) to open savannas (low canopy cover), and are located along shallow topographic gradients.

We measured community‐wide seedling limitation (i.e. proportion of 1‐m2 plots without seedlings of any woody species), photosynthetic photon flux density, litter cover, soil moisture and soil nutrients in each savanna type. Because closed savannas had lower PPFD and higher leaf litter cover than open savannas, we evaluated the effects of light level and litter cover on seedling emergence of nine dominant savanna woody species under controlled conditions in a glasshouse.

Density, recruitment and survival of seedlings decreased over time because of mortality in all savanna types, but they were consistently higher in closed than in open savannas. Community‐wide seedling limitation was significantly lower in closed (0.16 ± 0.03) than in open (0.30 ± 0.05) savannas.

In the glasshouse, high litter cover and very low light levels reduced seedling emergence of most species, suggesting an adaptation to delay seed germination until the wet season when soil water availability is high and leaf litter rapidly decomposes.

Synthesis: In Neotropical savannas, tree canopy cover facilitates seedling establishment of woody species by reducing stressful environmental conditions. In particular, low irradiance and high litter cover in closed savannas enhance the recruitment and survival of woody seedlings relative to open savannas by reducing soil water deficits and increasing nutrient availability in the upper soil layers. The higher seedling limitation of tree species in open than in closed savannas contributes to maintain relatively different balances between trees and herbaceous plants along topographic gradients in Neotropical savannas and helps to explain spatial distribution patterns of woody species in these ecosystems.
Use of Plain Radiography in the Diagnosis, Surgical Management, and Postoperative Treatment of Obstructive Urolithiasis in 25 Goats and 2 Sheep
Authors: Kinsley Marc A. , Semevolos Stacy , Parker Jill E. , Duesterdieck‐Zellmer Katja , Huber Michael
Published: May 2013

Objective

To describe use of plain radiography for diagnosis, surgical management, and postoperative treatment of obstructive urolithiasis in small ruminants.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

Small ruminants (n = 27; 25 goats, 2 sheep).

Methods

Medical records (January 2002–November 2011) and radiographs for all small ruminants diagnosed with obstructive urolithiasis and having plain abdominal radiographs were reviewed. Signalment, surgical procedures, radiographic findings, ultrasonographic findings, position of calculi, and how plain radiography influenced surgical management and postoperative treatment were recorded.

Results

Radiopaque urinary calculi were detected in 23 (85%) plain radiographic studies. Location of uroliths determined by plain radiography included: cystic only (n = 5), distal to the sigmoid flexure and cystic (5), subischial (5), distal to the sigmoid flexure only (3), sigmoid flexure (3), and subischial and cystic (2). In 8 of these animals, postoperative radiographs revealed residual calculi in the urethra and were essential for their targeted removal by urethrotomy in 7 animals.

Conclusions

In regions where radiopaque calculi (calcium carbonate, calcium oxalate, silica) are commonly encountered in small ruminants, plain radiographs are recommended to determine the appropriate surgical approach(es) and to confirm resolution of the obstruction.
Does policy name matter? The effect of framing on the evaluations of African American applicants
Authors: Awad Germine H.
Published: May 2013

Affirmative action continues to be one of the most contentious policies in the U.S. The current study examined the effect of hiring policy framing on the evaluation of African American applicants. Participants (N = 204) reviewed the résumé of an African American man either hired under an affirmative‐action or a diversity‐initiative frame. Results indicated that the applicant was evaluated as more competent under the diversity‐initiative frame than the affirmative‐action frame. This was especially true for White and conservative raters. The findings suggest that shifting to an emphasis on diversity instead of affirmative action may decrease negative attitudes toward affirmative‐action beneficiaries.
Exploring the effect of in‐group and out‐group race‐related stressors on anxiety among Asian Pacific Islander American students
Authors: French Sabine Elizabeth , Tran Nellie , Chávez Noé Rubén
Published: May 2013

This cross‐sectional study examined (a) the impact of in‐group (own‐group conformity pressure) and out‐group (perceived discrimination, stereotype confirmation concern) race‐related stressors; (b) the direct effect of 2 in‐group‐ (private regard, centrality) and 1 out‐group‐oriented (public regard) racial identity factors; and (c) the potential protective role of these identity factors on the impact of stressors on the anxiety of Asian Pacific Islander American (API) college students attending a racially diverse university. As predicted, positive feelings toward one's own racial group (i.e., private regard) had a significant negative relationship with anxiety. Private regard protected APIs from own‐group conformity pressures and stereotype confirmation concerns. Findings address the diverse university context that may create acculturative pressures or stereotype confirmation concern conditions.
Sleep and prejudice: a resource recovery approach
Authors: Ghumman Sonia , Barnes Christopher M.
Published: May 2013

Does sleepiness make one more likely to engage in stereotyping? Are people more likely to be prejudiced because of a poor night of sleep? Borrowing from ego depletion theory and research on self‐control and prejudice, the present work investigates these questions. We suggest that sleep is a diminishable resource that fuels self‐control and is, therefore, necessary for inhibiting prejudice. A series of 3 studies show that sleep did influence prejudice. Furthermore, we found that the relationship between sleep and prejudice was marginally moderated by negative implicit associations, such that this relationship primarily held true for individuals who have high negative implicit associations. These results highlight the critical role that sleep plays in suppressing prejudice.
Inter‐Arm Blood Pressure Differences in Young, Healthy Patients
Authors: Grossman Alon , Prokupetz Alex , Gordon Barak , Morag‐Koren Nira , Grossman Ehud
Published: May 2013

The prevalence and magnitude of inter‐arm BP difference (IAD)in young healthy patients is not well characterized. Flight academy applicants and designated aviators undergo annual evaluation that includes blood pressure (BP)measurement on both arms. AllBPmeasurements performed from January 1, 2012, to April 30, 2012, were recorded andIADwas calculated. Results were compared between patients in whomBPwas initially measured in the right arm (group 1), those in whomBPwas initially measured in the left arm (group 2), and those in whom the arm in whichBPwas initially measured was not recorded (group 3). A total of 877 healthy patients hadBPmeasured during the study period. In the entire group, mean systolicBPwas the same in both arms. AbsoluteIADwas 5.6±5.5 mm Hg for systolic and 4.7±4.5 mm Hg for diastolicBP.IAD>10 mm Hg was recorded in 111 (12.6%) and 77 (8.8%) patients for systolic and diastolicBP,respectively.IADwas the same in the 3 groups and was unrelated to age, body mass index, and heart rate, but was related to systolicBP.IADis common in young healthy patients, is not dependent on which arm was measured first, and unrelated to age, body mass index, and heart rate.
Estimation of vitamin D levels in patients with pemphigus vulgaris
Authors: EL‐Komy M.H.M. , Samir N. , Shaker O.G.
Published: May 2013

Background

Keratinocyte acantholysis as a result of pathogenic Dsg3‐antibodies production by B cells leads to Pemphigus vulgaris (PV). Vitamin D, through its participation in several immune modulatory functions including B cells apoptosis, Th2 cell differentiation, apoptotic enzyme regulation and Tregs functions, may be actively involved in the immune regulation of PV.

Objective

To evaluate Vitamin D status in PV patients in comparison to controls in an attempt to determine its role in this autoimmune disease.

Methods

Using ELISA technique, 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) was determined for 34 pemphigus vulgaris patients and 20 healthy volunteers. Phosphorus and parathormone were also determined in the patient group.

Results

25OHD was significantly lower in patients than controls (P = 0.008). There was a statistically significant difference between both groups regarding suboptimal Vit. D levels (P = 0.007).

Conclusion

Patients with PV have significantly lower serum vitamin D levels in comparison to controls and that these low levels were not related to age, BMI or pattern of sun exposure. The associated Vitamin D insufficiency in patients with PV may possibly exacerbate their disease through various immune related mechanisms.
Towards an in vivo morphologic classification of melanocytic nevi
Authors: Pellacani G. , Scope A. , Farnetani F. , Casaretta G. , Zalaudek I. , Moscarella E. , Casari A. , Cesinaro A. M. , Argenziano G. , Longo C.
Published: May 2013

Background

Nevi are common benign neoplasms and the main diagnostic entity in the differential diagnosis of melanoma. Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM), a novel technique for skin imaging at cellular‐level magnification, has been shown to be useful for differentiating nevi from melanoma. However, systematic studies of the specific RCM features of nevi are still lacking.

Objective

To describe the characteristic RCM features of common melanocytic nevi and to correlate them with histopathology.

Methods

A total of 180 biopsy‐proven nevi were imaged with RCM prior to excision. RCM images were evaluated for the overall nevus pattern and presence of specific RCM criteria. Upon histopathology, nevi were analysed for thickness using adapted Breslow depth and Clark's level grading.

Results

Observed RCM patterns varied according to anatomic depth of nevi. Junctional nevi were mainly characterized on RCM by a Ringed pattern, indicating a predominantly single cell proliferation of melanocytes; in contrast, the junctional component of compound nevi appeared on RCM as a Meshwork pattern, indicating a predominantly nested‐proliferation. In compound nevi, the size of dermal nests was related to the thickness of nevi. Moreover, nevi extending deeper into the dermis were more likely to display a junctional component that extended laterally beyond the dermal component and appeared on RCM as either Ringed or Meshwork pattern. Intradermal nevi showed on RCM, in almost all cases, large clods.

Conclusions

The possibility for in vivo histopathological classification of nevi may help in attaining a better understanding of the origin of nevi and of nevus‐related melanoma risk.
Species‐specific ontogenetic diet shifts among NeotropicalCrenicichla: using stable isotopes and tissue stoichiometry
Authors: Burress E. D. , Duarte A. , Serra W. S. , Gangloff M. M. , Siefferman L.
Published: May 2013

Ontogenetic diet shifts were compared among five sympatric pike cichlids Crenicichla in a subtropical South American stream using stable C and N isotopes and tissue stoichiometry (C:N). Within species, stable N isotopes were positively related to body size while C:N showed negative relationships. Stable C isotopes, however, were not related to body size in any species. By modelling the switch to piscivory using gut content‐isotope‐body size relationships, diet shifts were shown to be species‐specific with regard to both rate and degree of piscivory. Compared to other piscivorous lineages, Crenicichla appear to be unusually small‐bodied (based on maximum body size). Because of their diversity, abundance and dynamic size‐structured functional roles, Crenicichla may exert broad and complex predation pressures on the aquatic community.
Habitat complexity affects how young of the year Atlantic codGadus morhuaperceive predation threat from older conspecifics
Authors: Theodorou P. , Snorrason S. S. , Ólafsdóttir G. Á.
Published: May 2013

The response of age 0+ year juvenile Atlantic codGadus morhuato the presence of age 1+ and age 3+ year conspecifics was measured with and without cover available. Juveniles reacted by aggregating more closely and maintaining distance from older conspecifics in an experimental setting without cover but only to age 3+ year conspecifics when cover was available. The results indicate that prior residence of older juveniles can affect age 0+ year juveniles during benthic settlement and highlights the conservation value of structurally complex nursery habitats.
Venous and arterial disease in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Tan Victoria P , Chung Alvin , Yan Bryan P , Gibson Peter R
Published: May 2013

Awareness is increasing that risk of venous thromboembolism and development of atherosclerosis is elevated in patients with some chronic inflammatory diseases. This review aimed to examine the risk of vascular disease in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and to identify potential pathogenic mechanisms and therapeutic approaches. An extensive literature search was conducted using MEDLINE database, Cochrane Library and international conference abstracts for studies pertaining to venous and arterial thromboembolism in adult IBD patients. There is a 1.1–3.6 fold risk of venothromboembolism in IBD, affecting 0.55–6.15% of patients. Risks are increased during a flare or with chronically active inflammation. Evidence is building that there may be a modestly increased risk of arterial disease overall, despite evidence that traditional risk factors may be reduced. Multiple pathogenic factors have been identified including endothelial dysfunction, inflammation‐mediated calcium deposition in the media of arteries, hyperhomocysteinemia, platelet activation, and altered coagulation and fibrinolysis. The key to active and preventive therapy is to effectively treat inflammation. Recommendations for prophylaxis of venothromboembolism have followed guidelines where they exist and have been extrapolated from studies of other at‐risk conditions, as have those for arterial disease, where screening for risk factors and actively treating abnormalities is encouraged. In conclusion, patients with IBD are at considerably increased risk of venothromboembolism and probably of arterial disease, in particular mesenteric ischemia and ischemic heart disease. Increased penetration of gaps between this knowledge and clinical therapeutic action to prevent thromboembolic events into IBD clinical practice is needed.
Outcome of endoscopic therapy for cancer bleeding in patients with unresectable gastric cancer
Authors: Kim Young‐Il , Choi Il Ju , Cho Soo‐Jeong , Lee Jong Yeul , Kim Chan Gyoo , Kim Mi‐Jung , Ryu Keun Won , Kim Young‐Woo , Park Young Iee
Published: May 2013

Background and Aim

Gastric cancer bleeding is not rare complication in patients with advanced gastric cancer (AGC). The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and clinical outcomes of endoscopic therapy (ET) for upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) from unresectable AGC.

Methods

Data from 113 patients with UGIB from unresectable AGC who underwent ET at the National Cancer Center, Korea were analyzed retrospectively. Success rates of endoscopic hemostasis, rebleeding rates, mortality at 30 days, and overall survival (OS) rate after initial hemostasis were investigated.

Results

The initial hemostasis rate was 92.9% (105/113). Electrocoagulation was the most common method used (92.0%, 104/113), and combination ET was required in 34 patients (30.1%). Rebleeding occurred in 43 patients (41.0%); 3‐day and 30‐day rebleeding rates were 18.1% and 29.5%, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that transfusion of packed red blood cells (> 5 units) was associated with early rebleeding (≤ 3 days after initial hemostasis) (odd ratio, 4.75; 95% confidential interval, 1.45–15.57; P = 0.010). ET was attempted in 18 patients with rebleeding; hemostasis was achieved in 88.9%. The 30‐day mortality rate after initial bleeding event was 15.9%. Median OS after initial hemostasis was 3.2 months. OS was lower for patients with early rebleeding than for those with late rebleeding (> 3 days after initial hemostasis) or without rebleeding (1.0, 3.1, and 4.3 months, respectively; P = 0.004).

Conclusions

ET, primarily endoscopic electrocoagulation, achieved a high initial hemostasis rate for UGIB in patients with unresectable AGC. However, rebleeding frequently occurred, and early rebleeding was associated with poor survival.
Addition of thiopurines can recapture response in patients with Crohn's disease who have lost response to anti‐tumor necrosis factor monotherapy
Authors: Ong David E H , Kamm Michael A , Hartono Juanda Leo , Lust Mark
Published: May 2013

Background and Aim

Anti‐tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antibodies are effective in maintaining remission in Crohn's disease. However, a significant proportion of patients lose response to these agents with time. This study aimed to determine whether the introduction of a thiopurine in patients who have lost response to anti‐TNF monotherapy results in regained response.

Methods

Five patients (four males; aged 22–38 years) with active Crohn's disease, who had an initial response to anti‐TNF therapy but had lost response, were commenced on azathioprine or mercaptopurine at standard doses while continuing anti‐TNF therapy. All had previously failed thiopurine therapy prior to starting anti‐TNF treatment.

Results

All patients experienced improved clinical symptoms within 2–6 months, with benefit sustained over a mean follow‐up of 19 months. Two patients with an elevated C‐reactive protein at the time of thiopurine addition demonstrated a fall in C‐reactive protein. Colonoscopy before and after thiopurine addition in four patients showed improvement in all, with mucosal healing achieved in two. No adverse effects of treatment were noted.

Conclusions

Addition of a thiopurine in patients who have lost response to anti‐TNF monotherapy is an effective strategy to recapture response even if the patient has previously failed thiopurine therapy. Thiopurines may reduce immunogenicity or act synergistically with anti‐TNF therapy.
Comparison of clinical effectiveness of the emergent colonoscopy in patients with hematochezia according to the type of bowel preparation
Authors: Lim Dae Seop , Kim Hyun Gun , Jeon Seong Ran , Shim Kwang Yeun , Lee Tae Hee , Kim Jin‐Oh , Ko Bong Min , Cho Joo Young , Lee Joon Seong
Published: May 2013

Background and Aims

Colonoscopy (CFS) is a valuable diagnostic tool in patients with hematochezia. However, the optimal preparation method of emergent CFS for hematochezia has not been defined. We investigated the clinical effectiveness of bowel preparation of patients with hematochezia using polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution and glycerin or water enemas.

Methods

The medical records of the past 7 years were reviewed. Patients presenting with hematochezia that occurred within 24 h before admission were eligible for the study. All patients underwent CFS within 24 h after visiting the emergency room for hematochezia. Patients were classified into two groups according to the preparation method used (enema vs PEG).

Results

Overall, 194 patients (125 enema vs 69 PEG) were enrolled. The diagnostic rate of bleeding focus was lower in the enema group than in the PEG group (84% vs 97.1%, P = 0.008). Performance of endoscopic hemostasis at the initial CFS was more frequent in the enema group than in the PEG group (40.8% vs 10.1%, P < 0.001). The rate of repeated CFS was higher in the enema group than in the PEG group (44.0% vs 18.8%, P < 0.001). Post‐polypectomy bleeding (n = 33) was diagnosed during the initial study and was treated endoscopically. In cases of post‐polypectomy bleeding, CFS (93.9%) was performed after an enema in all but two cases.

Conclusions

In hematochezia patients, the PEG group showed a higher diagnostic rate and lower rate of repeated CFS. However, emergent CFS after an enema only seems to be useful in patients with severe hematochezia or if the bleeding focus can be presumed.
Maintenance of Th1 hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐specific responses in individuals with acute HCV who achieve sustained virological clearance after treatment
Authors: Flynn Jacqueline K , Dore Gregory J , Hellard Margaret , Yeung Barbara , Rawlinson William D , White Peter A , Kaldor John M , Lloyd Andrew R , Ffrench Rosemary A ,   ATAHC Study Group
Published: May 2013

Background and Aim

T‐cell responses against hepatitis C are believed to be critical in achieving both natural and treatment‐induced clearance. However, rapid clearance of antigen with early treatment of primary infection may result in reduced or poorly sustained cellular immunity. This study longitudinally examined Th1 and Th2 hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐specific cytokine production and T‐cell effector function from subjects enrolled in the Australian Trial in Acute Hepatitis C comparing three groups: treatment‐induced clearance (sustained virological response [SVR]), treatment non‐response, and untreated spontaneous clearance.

Methods

HCV‐specific T‐cell responses were characterized by HCV peptide ELISpot, in vitro cytokine production, and T‐cell flow cytometry assays.

Results

Treated subjects with a sustained virological response (SVR) displayed a better maintenance of HCV‐specific Th1 responses compared to treatment non‐responders (higher interferon [IFN]‐γ and interleukin (IL)‐2 magnitude at week 24, broader IFN‐γ responses at weeks 24 and 48, P < 0.05) and significantly increased IFN‐γ responses between screening and week 48 (magnitude P = 0.026, breadth P = 0.009). Treatment‐induced viral clearance was also associated with a trend toward decreased IL‐10 responses (screening to week 48, P = 0.070), higher expression of CD45RO (P = 0.042) and CD38 (P = 0.088) on CD4+ T cells, and higher IFN‐γR expression (CD56+IFN‐γR+ P = 0.033) compared to treatment non‐responders. Untreated subjects with viral clearance also displayed high magnitude and broad HCV‐specific IFN‐γ and IL‐2 responses early in infection; however, IFN‐γ responses were not as well maintained compared to treated subjects with a SVR (week 48 magnitude, breadth P = 0.064).

Conclusion

Treatment‐induced viral clearance of recent HCV infection is associated with maintenance of HCV‐specific Th1 responses.
N‐(3′, 4′‐dimethoxycinnamonyl) anthranilic acid alleviated experimental colitis by inhibiting autoimmune response and inducing CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells production
Authors: Wen Quan , Zhou Liping , Chen Huan , Zhang Yan
Published: May 2013

Background and Aim

Crohn's disease treatments available today are not quite satisfactory. N‐(3′, 4′‐dimethoxycinnamonyl) anthranilic acid (3, 4‐DAA) has been proved to be effective in many autoimmune diseases. Therefore, we investigated the immunologic function of 3, 4‐DAA on trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) colitis and human Crohn's disease.

Methods

Mice with TNBS‐induced colitis were treated with 3, 4‐DAA or 1‐methyl‐tryptophan (1‐ MT). Colitis severity was assessed with clinical and histological scores. Cell proliferation, cytokine expression, and the percentage of CD4+CD25+ T cells were measured in both mice and human samples.

Results

In mice treated with 3, 4‐DAA, the clinical and histological scores were decreased (P < 0.05); the proliferation of mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) cells and lamina propria mononuclear cells (LPMCs) were inhibited (P < 0.05); Th1 cytokine expressions were decreased (P < 0.05), and Th2 cytokine levels were increased (P < 0.05). 3, 4‐DAA also induced CD4+CD25+ T cells expression (5.88 ± 2.1 vs 11.03 ± 2.93, P < 0.05) in mice MLNs. Transfer of these cells into TNBS colitis mice resulted in the reduction of the disease activity index (DAI) and histological scores. In LPMCs isolated from human Crohn's disease, 3, 4‐DAA had the same effect. It can inhibit the cell proliferation, decrease Th1 cytokine expressions (P < 0.05), and increase Th2 cytokine levels (P < 0.05). The percentage of CD4+CD25+ T cells were also increased (1.60 ± 0.14 vs 2.45 ± 0.50, P < 0.05). 1‐MT treatment led to opposite outcomes.

Conclusion

3, 4‐DAA can alleviate the severity of colitis through inhibiting Th1 cells response, promoting Th2 cytokines expression and inducing CD4+CD25+ T cells expression.
Expression of genes for microRNA‐processing enzymes is altered in advanced non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Sharma Haveesh , Estep Michael , Birerdinc Aybike , Afendy Arian , Moazzez Amir , Elariny Hazem , Goodman Zachary , Chandhoke Vikas , Baranova Ancha , Younossi Zobair M
Published: May 2013

Background and Aim

Recently, microRNAs (miRNA) have been linked to the pathogenesis of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its progression to non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). First transcribed as pri‐miRNA, these molecules are further processed by a complex of endonuclear and cytosolic RNA binding molecules to form mature miRNAs. The aim of this study is to investigate mechanisms of miRNA regulation in the visceral adipose of obese NAFLD patients via measuring expression of miRNA processing enzymes and pri‐miRNA.

Methods

Total RNAs were extracted from visceral adipose tissue (VAT) samples collected from patients undergoing bariatric surgery. All patients had biopsy‐proven NAFLD (NASH patients [n = 12] and non‐NASH NAFLD [n = 12]). For each patient, we profiled mRNA levels for three miRNA processing elements (Drosha, DGCR8, and Dicer1) and seven pri‐miRNAs (pri‐miR‐125b‐2, pri‐miR‐16‐2, pri‐miR‐26a‐1, pri‐miR‐26a‐2, pri‐miR‐7‐1, pri‐miR‐7‐2, and pri‐miR‐7‐3).

Results

Expression of Dicer1, Drosha and DGCR8 was significantly increased within the NASH cohort along with expression of pri‐miR‐7‐1. The presence of focal necrosis on the liver biopsy correlated significantly with levels of Dicer1 and DGRC8. Both NASH and ballooning degeneration of hepatocytes correlated negatively with the expression levels of hsa‐miR‐125b. Histologic NASH correlated positively with the expression levels of pri‐miR‐16‐2 and pri‐miR‐7‐1. The presence of the hepatocyte's ballooning degeneration in the liver biopsy correlated positively with pri‐miR‐26a‐1 and pri‐miR‐7‐1. The expression profile of pri‐miR‐125b‐2 also correlated positively with body mass index.

Conclusions

Our findings support the hypothesis that VAT‐derived miRNA may contribute to the pathogenesis of NASH in obese patients.
Feasibility of sentinel node navigation surgery after noncurative endoscopic resection for early gastric cancer
Authors: Arigami Takaaki , Uenosono Yoshikazu , Yanagita Shigehiro , Matsushita Daisuke , Arima Hideo , Hirata Munetsugu , Uchikado Yasuto , Nakajo Akihiro , Okumura Hiroshi , Ishigami Sumiya , Hokita Shuichi , Natsugoe Shoji
Published: May 2013

Background and Aim

Recently, the use of additional surgery after noncurative endoscopic resection has gradually increased due to the rapid spread of endoscopic treatments in selected patients with early gastric cancer. Sentinel node navigation surgery (SNNS) has also been recognized as a minimally invasive surgery with personalized lymphadenectomy in early gastric cancer. Here, we assessed the feasibility of SNNS after noncurative endoscopic resection for early gastric cancer.

Methods

Sixteen patients with early gastric cancer, in whom additional surgery had been indicated due to noncurative endoscopic resection, were enrolled. They underwent a gastrectomy with standard lymphadenectomy. One day before surgery, 99mtechnetium‐tin colloid was endoscopically injected into the submucosa around the tumor. After surgery, the uptake of radioisotope in dissected lymph nodes was measured using Navigator GPS. Then, all dissected lymph nodes were investigated by hematoxylin‐eosin staining and immunohistochemistry using an antihuman cytokeratin monoclonal antibody.

Results

Hematoxylin‐eosin staining demonstrated lymph node metastasis in two (12.5%) of 16 patients and in three (0.8%) of 382 nodes. However, immunohistochemistry showed that none of the patients had lymph node micrometastasis. Sentinel nodes (SNs) were identified in all patients. The mean number of SNs was 3.1 (range, 1–6). Among two patients with lymph node metastasis, the SNs, at least, contained positive nodes. Accordingly, the false‐negative and accuracy rates were 0% and 100%, respectively.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that SNNS may have potential as a further minimally invasive surgery in early gastric cancer patients after noncurative endoscopic resection.
Health and Aging: Development of The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing Health Assessment
Authors: Cronin Hilary , O'Regan Clare , Finucane Ciaran , Kearney Patricia , Kenny Rose Anne
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To assist researchers planning studies similar to The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), concerning the development of the health assessment component, to promote use of the archived data set, to inform researchers of the methods employed, and to complement the accompanying article on normative values.

Design

Prospective, longitudinal study of older adults.

Setting

Republic of Ireland.

Participants

Eight thousand five hundred four community‐dwelling adults who participated in wave 1 of the TILDA study.

Measurements

The main areas of focus for the TILDA health assessments are neurocardiovascular instability, locomotion, and vision.

Results

The article describes the scientific rationale for the choice of assessments and seeks to determine the potential advantages of incorporating novel biomeasures and technologies in population‐based studies to advance understanding of aging‐related disorders.

Conclusion

The detailed description of the physical measures will facilitate cross‐national comparative research and put into context the normative values outlined in the subsequent article.
Reciprocal Pathways Between Autonomous Motivation and Affect: A Longitudinal Investigation of American and Chinese Early Adolescents
Authors: Pomerantz Eva M. , Qin Lili
Published: May 2013

The current research examined the reciprocal pathways between children's autonomous motivation in school and affect over early adolescence in the United States and China. Beginning in the fall of 7th grade, 825 American and Chinese children (mean age = 12.73 years) reported on their autonomous (vs. controlled) motivation as well as unpleasant and pleasant affect every 6 months until the end of eighth grade. In both the United States and China, there were negative reciprocal pathways between children's autonomous motivation and unpleasant affect. Over time, heightened autonomous motivation predicted dampened unpleasant affect, which in turn predicted heightened autonomous motivation. Positive reciprocal pathways between children's autonomous motivation and pleasant affect were evident over time only in China.
Transcript patterns of chloroplast‐encoded genes in cultured Symbiodinium spp. (Dinophyceae): testing the influence of a light shift and diel periodicity
Authors: McGinley Michael P. , Suggett David J. , Warner Mark E.
Published: May 2013

Microalgae possess numerous cellular mechanisms specifically employed for acclimating the photosynthetic pathways to changes in the physical environment. Despite the importance of coral‐dinoflagellate symbioses, little focus has been given as to how the symbiotic algae (Symbiodinium spp.) regulate the expression of their photosynthetic genes. This study used real‐time PCR to investigate the transcript abundance of the plastid‐encoded genes, psbA (encoding the D1 protein of photosystem II) and psaA (encoding the P700 protein in photosystem I), within the cultured Symbiodinium ITS‐2 (internal transcribed spacer region) types A20 and A13. Transcript abundance was monitored during a low to high‐light shift, as well as over a full diel light cycle. In addition, psaA was characterized in three isolates (A20, A13, and D4‐5) and noted as another example of a dinoflagellate plastid gene encoded on a minicircle. In general, the overall incongruence of transcript patterns for both psbA and psaA between the Symbiodinium isolates and other models of transcriptionally controlled chloroplast gene expression (e.g., Pisum sativum [pea], Sinapis alba [mustard seedling], and Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 [cyanobacteria]) suggests that Symbiodinium is reliant on posttranscriptional mechanisms for homeostatic regulation of its photosynthetic proteins.
Evaluation of Hemostatic Activity of Canine Frozen Plasma for Transfusion by Thromboelastography
Authors: Urban R. , Guillermo Couto C. , Cristina Iazbik M.
Published: May 2013

Background

In humans, fresh frozen plasma (FFP) loses factor V and VIII activities after 1 year. It then becomes frozen plasma (FP), and theoretically is unsuitable for use in patients with coagulopathies. These findings have not been reported for dogs.

Hypothesis

Canine FP is hemostatically active after 5 years of storage.

Animals

Fresh plasma (Group FsP; n = 15) and 5‐year‐old FP (Group FzP; n = 10) from blood bank donors.

Methods

Group FsP and Group FzP samples were evaluated by thromboelastography (TEG), one‐stage prothrombin time (OSPT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), fibrinogen, and antithrombin. Fresh plasma (n = 6) and a subset of Group FzP (n = 8) were evaluated for clotting factor activities (V, VIII, IX, X). A 2nd experiment using short‐term storage of thawed FP under suboptimal conditions (refrigerated [4°C] or refrozen [−20°C]) by TEG was performed to simulate general practice storage capabilities.

Results

Group FzP had shorter reaction time (P = .0007) and larger angle (P = .0004) compared with Group FsP by TEG, suggesting hypercoaguability. Factor VIII and X activities were lower in Group FzP (P = .02 and .005, respectively). Fibrinogen, OSPT, and APTT were significantly lower or longer for Group FzP than Group FsP (P < .05), but most values remained within reference intervals for dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Five‐year‐old canine FP stored at −30°C is hemostatically active and should be clinically evaluated in patients with coagulopathies. If active, the monetary savings of using older plasma will be substantial.
Bradyarrhythmias and Pacemaker Therapy in Dogs with Chagas Disease
Authors: Saunders A.B. , Gordon S.G. , Rector M.H. , DeMaster A. , Jackson N. , Clubb F.J. , Fosgate G.T. , Miller M.W.
Published: May 2013

Background

Chagas disease (Trypanosomiasis) is a cause of myocarditis in the southernUnitedStates causing cardiac conduction abnormalities, arrhythmias, and heart failure.

Objectives

To report clinical findings and outcome inChagas positive (CP) dogs requiring pacemaker implantation for bradyarrhythmias.

Animals

One hundred and forty‐four client‐owned dogs requiring pacemaker implantation.

Methods

Retrospective case series. Information regarding history, physical exam, laboratory and diagnostic imaging findings, treatment, and survival were obtained from medical records, with additional follow‐up information obtained by contacting referring veterinarians and owners.

Results

Of the 144 dogs requiring pacemaker implantation fromJanuary 2001 toMay 2010, 83 (57.6%) had aChagas titer performed and 9 (10%) wereCP. Concurrent ventricular arrhythmias (odds ratio 1.61,P = .005) or atrioventricular (AV) block (odds ratio 4.18,P < .001) increased the likelihood that aChagas titer was submitted. Median age forCPdogs was 6.2 years (range, 0.3–10); 7 were male. Bradyarrhythmias included high‐grade 2nd or 3rd degreeAVblock (n = 8) and sinus bradycardia with 1st degreeAVblock (n = 1); 5 had concurrent ventricular arrhythmias. A positiveChagas titer had a negative impact on survival (hazard ratio 4.04; 95%CI1.36–12.1,P = .012) with a reported median survival time of 365 days (interquartile range, 84–973 days).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Bradyarrhythmias can result in clinical signs requiring pacemaker implantation inCPdogs, and although the diagnosis negatively impacts survival, pacemaker therapy is a viable treatment option.
Evaluation of Methods to Improve the Diagnosis of Systemic Inflammation in Alpacas
Authors: Passler T. , Chamorro M.F. , Riddell K.P. , Edmondson M.A. , van Santen E. , Cray C. , Maxwell H.S. , Walz P.H.
Published: May 2013

Background

The stoic nature of alpacas and limitations of current diagnostic tests make early recognition of inflammatory diseases in this species challenging.

Objectives

In a model of mild systemic inflammation, this study evaluated the utility of different clinical and clinicopathologic variables as accurate predictors of inflammation in alpacas.

Animals

Twelve clinically healthy alpacas were randomly assigned to equal‐sized treatment (TG) and control (CG) groups. After collection of initial blood samples (0 hour), lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 20 μg/kg/24 h) or saline was administered by SC osmotic mini‐pumps (OMP) for 96 hours. Additional blood samples were collected at 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144, and 240 hours and differential leukocyte counts and concentrations of globulin, albumin, iron, haptoglobin, and serum amyloid A were measured.

Results

Mild swelling was observed at OMP implantation sites in both groups. Other clinical signs of systemic inflammation were not observed. Total leukocytes, neutrophils, albumin, and globulin concentrations were not significantly different between groups. Compared with CG‐alpacas, TG‐alpacas had fewer lymphocytes (P = .0322), more band neutrophils (P = .0087), and higher neutrophil/lymphocyte ratios (P = .0295) during the first 96 hours of the study. During LPS administration, serum iron concentrations were significantly decreased in TG‐alpacas (P < .0001). Haptoglobin concentrations of TG‐animals exceeded those of CG‐animals after removal of OMP (P = .0056). Serum amyloid A was not detectable in alpacas in this study.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

These results indicated that neutrophil/lymphocyte ratios and serum iron concentrations are early indicators of inflammation in alpacas. Additional research is needed to evaluate the acute phase protein responses of alpacas.
Multimedia literacy practices in beginning classrooms and at home: the differences in practices and beliefs
Authors: Arrow Alison W. , Finch Brian T.
Published: May 2013

Multimedia literacy practices in the homes of young children are changing rapidly, but the use of them in the early years of education is moving slowly. This research was aimed to find out what teachers of 5‐year‐olds, in their first 6 months of compulsory schooling, think about the children's literacy practices at home, including the perceived use of digital media at home. We also wanted to find out what the teachers did in their classrooms that was similar or different to the students' experiences of literacy practices across several media. Parents of 76 children, and their teachers, from 10 classrooms in mid‐high and mid‐low socio‐economic areas completed surveys. The parents' survey asked about the literacy‐related experiences their children are involved in. The teachers' survey asked for their beliefs about the literacy‐related experiences the children in their classrooms engaged in, on average, including the use of digital media. The teachers were also asked about the literacy practices in their classroom and their use of media. This paper describes the teachers' beliefs and the similarities and differences in practices between home and school, including literacy practices using digital technology.
Selection of habitat by a marine amphipod
Authors: Gestoso Ignacio , Olabarria Celia , Troncoso Jesús S.
Published: May 2013

Marine algae are known to provide habitats for a wide range of marine organisms. Populations of marine epiphytal invertebrates are generalists and are less adapted to live in only one macroalga species. However, there are some examples of local adaptation and, in particular, amphipods have shown strong host specificity.Amphitholina cuniculus, an amphipod with an alga‐burrowing habit, has been mainly observed inBifurcaria bifurcatamats on the intertidal rocky shores of the southern region of the Galician coast (NWSpain; 42º11.27′ N, 8º48.25′ W). We designed a laboratory experiment conducted in June 2009 to analyse the association between the amphipod and the macroalga. In particular, we hypothesised that (i) this species would exhibit different behaviour during the day and at night, and (ii) adults ofA. cuniculuswould preferB. bifurcataas habitat rather thanFucus vesiculosusorSargassum muticum. Results supported the hypothesis that adults ofA. cuniculuspreferredB. bifurcata, although such preferences did not show the day/night variability predicted. This amphipod might be considered a specialist species, at least on rocky intertidal shores along the Galician coast.