bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PolaBer: a program to calculate and visualize distributed atomic polarizabilities based on electron density partitioning
Authors: Krawczuk Anna , Pérez Daniel , Macchi Piero
Published: June 2014

This paper describes the program PolaBer, which calculates atomic polarizability tensors from electric field perturbations of a partitioned electron density distribution. Among many possible partitioning schemes, PolaBer is currently using the quantum theory of atoms in molecules and it is interfaced to programs that apply such a partitioning. The calculation of the atomic tensors follows the idea suggested by Keith [The Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules: From Solid State to DNA and Drug Design, (2007), edited by C. F. Matta & R. J. Boyd. Weinheim: Wiley-VCH], which enables the removal of the intrinsic origin dependence of the atomic charge contributions to the molecular dipole moment. This scheme allows the export, within chemically equivalent functional groups, of properties calculated from atomic dipoles, such as for example the atomic polarizabilities. The software permits visualization of the tensors and calculation of straightforward optical properties of a molecule (like the molar refractive index) or a crystal (assuming the molecule in a given crystal lattice).
Demographic legacies of fire history in an African savanna
Authors: Levick Shaun R. , Baldeck Claire A. , Asner Gregory P.
Published: June 2014

Fire is a key determinant of woody vegetation structure in savanna ecosystems, acting both independently and synergistically through interactions with herbivores. Fire influences biodiversity and ecological functioning, but quantifying its effects on woody structure is challenging at both species and community scales.

Deeper insight into fire effects, and fire–herbivore interactions, can be gained through the examination of species‐specific demographic and dynamic changes occurring across areas with different fire regimes in the presence of large herbivores. We used the Carnegie Airborne Observatory (an integrated LiDAR and imaging spectroscopy system) to map woody tree structure, species and dynamics over a four‐year interval across two adjacent savanna landscapes with contrasting fire histories in Kruger National Park, South Africa.

A history of higher fire frequency was associated with reduced woody canopy cover (17% vs. 23%) and an increased overall rate of treefall (27% vs. 18%). The landscape with a history of higher fire frequency displayed a shift in woody canopy height distribution from a unimodal curve to a bimodal pattern at the community scale, with large reductions in height classes <7 m.

Differences in tree height distributions and treefall rates across sites were underpinned by species‐specific responses to fire frequency. Acacia nigrescens displayed the highest rates of treefall, most likely related to elephant activity, with losses exceeding 40% in the 6‐ to 9‐m height classes.

Synthesis. Our findings indicate that fire history imparts demographic legacies not only on vegetation structure, but also on current vegetation dynamics. Current treefall rates of certain tree species are exacerbated by a history of higher fire frequency. Species‐specific and context‐conscious investigations are critical for elucidating the driving mechanisms underlying broader community patterns.
Lichens as ecological indicators in urban areas: beyond the effects of pollutants
Authors: Munzi Silvana , Correia Otilia , Silva Patricia , Lopes Nuno , Freitas Catarina , Branquinho Cristina , Pinho Pedro
Published: June 2014

In this work, we hypothesized that in urban areas with reduced pollution levels, local climatic conditions can be an important driver of lichen diversity. Thus, lichen functional groups could be used to study the effects of the urban heat island, characterized by higher temperature and lower humidity in urban than in peri‐urban areas. To test this hypothesis, we sampled functional groups of epiphytic lichens in 48 forest remnants of a Mediterranean urban area (Almada, Portugal).

Of all tested functional groups (including those most closely associated with air pollution), groups related to water requirements showed the most significant correlations with surrounding artificial areas, roads and forest. These results suggest that the current major driver of lichen diversity is the climate within the urban area rather than air pollution, as frequently assumed.

The analysis of local climate using meteorological data of temperature and humidity confirmed the existence of urban heat island in the study area.

Synthesis and applications. The analysis of lichen functional groups gave an integrated response to the climatic modifications occurring in urban areas, namely to the urban heat island, suggesting that lichens can be used as a tool to evaluate the impact of urban areas on local climate and the effectiveness of mitigation and adaptation strategies if pollution levels are low.
Young people with high‐functioning autism and Asperger's syndrome planning for and anticipating the move to college: what supports a positive transition?
Authors: Mitchell Wendy , Beresford Bryony
Published: June 2014

For many young people in England, the move into continuing education involves a transfer from the school where they were educated to a further education college. For those with high‐functioning autism or Asperger's syndrome, this can be a challenging process. Past research has demonstrated some of the problems that these young people can encounter. This article byWendyMitchell andBryonyBeresford, both based in the Social Policy Research Unit at the University ofYork, adds to the evidence base by describing how best to support these young people, focusing specifically on ‘young person endorsed’ practice. Data are gleaned from qualitative interviews with 18 young people with high‐functioning autism/Asperger's syndrome. Findings reveal that young people welcomed the involvement of practitioners; however, specific forms of help and knowledge were particularly valued. In addition, it was parents, as opposed to professionals, who typically emerged as the most significant and valued source of support. Implications for practice are discussed, including the support needs of parents.
Intracellular Oceanospirillales inhabit the gills of the hydrothermal vent snail Alviniconcha with chemosynthetic, γ‐Proteobacterial symbionts
Authors: Beinart R. A. , Nyholm S. V. , Dubilier N. , Girguis P. R.
Published: June 2014

Associations between bacteria from the γ‐Proteobacterial order Oceanospirillales and marine invertebrates are quite common. Members of the Oceanospirillales exhibit a diversity of interactions with their various hosts, ranging from the catabolism of complex compounds that benefit host growth to attacking and bursting host nuclei. Here, we describe the association between a novel Oceanospirillales phylotype and the hydrothermal vent snail Alviniconcha. Alviniconcha typically harbour chemoautotrophic γ‐ or ε‐Proteobacterial symbionts inside their gill cells. Via fluorescence in situ hybridization and transmission electron microscopy, we observed an Oceanospirillales phylotype (named AOP for ‘Alviniconcha Oceanospirillales phylotype’) in membrane‐bound vacuoles that were separate from the known γ‐ or ε‐Proteobacterial symbionts. Using quantitative polymerase chain reaction, we surveyed 181 Alviniconcha hosting γ‐Proteobacterial symbionts and 102 hosting ε‐Proteobacterial symbionts, and found that the population size of AOP was always minor relative to the canonical symbionts (median 0.53% of the total quantified 16S rRNA genes). Additionally, we detected AOP more frequently in Alviniconcha hosting γ‐Proteobacterial symbionts than in those hosting ε‐Proteobacterial symbionts (96% and 5% of individuals respectively). The high incidence of AOP in γ‐Proteobacteria hosting Alviniconcha implies that it could play a significant ecological role either as a host parasite or as an additional symbiont with unknown physiological capacities.
An introduction to radar image processing in ecology
Authors: Stepanian Phillip M. , Chilson Phillip B. , Kelly Jeffrey F.
Published: June 2014

Use of radar in ornithology, chiropterology and entomology continues to increase, driven in part by widespread online data availability. In addition to research applications, rapid growth in areas such as wind energy and aviation has prompted the use of radar for conservation. While a variety of research applications motivate ecologists to gain basic radar literacy, the ability to process and analyse radar data sets can be a daunting task that may dissuade inexperienced ecological radar users. This effect is exacerbated by vague radar methodologies in the ecology literature, as well as the combination of complex techniques and unfamiliar terminology in other radar‐focused disciplines.

While radar data come in many formats and levels of detail, a common type is the two‐dimensional radar image. As rasters of data with associated spatial coordinates, radar images are relatively easy to manipulate, especially for those familiar with basic raster computations. Furthermore, because radar image data require relatively small storage space, they can be readily downloaded from a number of online sources. With this in mind, radar images provide a convenient foundation for ecological applications.

A primer on radar image interpretation and processing is presented, with a focus on image composition for typical atmospheric surveillance radar scans. Additionally, a selection of existing ecological radar image processing methods are overviewed. As a starting point, a basic algorithm for automated image processing is outlined that may be modified to create specialized workflows. Three examples of the application of this algorithm are included, illustrating its modification and use for automated feature extraction.

By outlining a basic algorithm, we hope to provide a clear starting point for the beginning radar user. When combined with additional existing methods, this algorithm provides a wide range of refinements and modifications that can pave a path towards sophisticated radar processing workflows. In the long term, the ability of ecologists to independently analyse radar data will lead to better ecological interpretation of radar data and a more informed application to conservation policy.
A series of severe necrotising soft‐tissue infections in a regional centre in Sweden
Authors: BRINK M. , ARNELL P. , LYCKE H. , ROSEMAR A. , HAGBERG L.
Published: June 2014

Background

Necrotising soft‐tissue infections (NSTIs) are rare conditions with high morbidity and mortality. Patients with NSTIs are often transferred to tertiary hospitals, but the question of whether the potential benefits of highly specialised care outweigh the risks associated with inter‐hospital transfers has been raised.

Methods

Prospective study including all patients with NSTIs treated at the intensive care unit at Sahlgrenska University Hospital/East between January 2008 and December 2011.

Results

Twenty‐nine patients with NSTIs were identified. Their median age was 54 years and 69% were men. Major co‐morbidities were present in 45%. Seventeen patients (59%) were referred from other hospitals. Only 33% of the patients were correctly diagnosed or suspected of having NSTIs in the emergency department. Group A Streptococcus was the most common microbiological finding (41%), followed by Enterobacteriaceae (17%). The median time from hospitalisation to the first dose of antibiotics was 6 h and the median time to primary surgery was 16 h. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy was given to 86%, and intravenous immunoglobulin was given in 52% of the cases. The 30‐day mortality was 14% (4/29). The times to the first dose of antibiotics, intensive care unit admission and primary surgery did not differ between transferred and directly admitted patients, and there was no difference in outcome between the groups.

Conclusions

Patients with NSTIs develop severe local and systemic symptoms and require extremely resource‐demanding hospitalisation. Inter‐hospital transfer was not associated with a delay in key interventions and could not be identified as a risk factor for adverse outcome.
Association between Group 2 Innate Lymphoid Cells enrichment, nasal polyps and allergy in Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Miljkovic D. , Bassiouni A. , Cooksley C. , Ou J. , Hauben E. , Wormald P. ‐J. , Vreugde S.
Published: June 2014

Background

Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) were shown to be involved in the initiation and coordination of Th2‐type immune responses in allergic disease animal models. Recently, ILC2s enrichment was noted in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) patients; however, the role of ILC2s in coordinating the Th2 response in CRS remains to be elucidated. Here, we characterize the ILC2 compartment in CRS by investigating the correlations between ILC2s, Th2 cells and Th2 cytokines expression in CRS patients.

Methods

We used flow cytometric analysis of sinonasal mucosal tissues of 29 CRS patients and 5 controls to quantify ILC2s and Th2 cells. Messenger RNA expression levels of IL‐5, IL‐13, IL‐25, IL‐33, TSLP and GATA3 were determined using qRT‐PCR.

Results

ILC2s were significantly enriched in nasal polyps (CRSwNP) patients. Multivariate linear regression showed a significant positive association of ILC2 numbers with CRSwNP and allergic CRS and a negative association with the number of previous endoscopic sinus surgeries. Group 2 innate lymphoid cell numbers significantly correlated with Th2 cell frequencies. Messenger RNA expression levels of IL‐5 and IL‐13 were increased in CRSwNP compared with controls, while mRNA levels of IL‐25 and GATA3 were significantly reduced.

Conclusions

Our results characterize the complex interactions between ILC2s and other Th2 response elements in the context of CRS and suggest that ILC2 enrichment occurs in CRSwNP and in allergic CRS patients.
The response of the neuronal adaptive system to background illumination and readaptation to dark in the immature retina
Authors: Wang Ling , el Azazi Mildred , Eklund Anders , Burstedt Marie , Wachtmeister Lillemor
Published: June 2014

Purpose

Developmental characteristics of the neuronal adaptive system of the retina, focusing on background light (BGL) adaptation and readaptation functions, were studied by measuring the oscillatory response (SOP) of the electroretinogram (ERG).

Methods

Digitally filtered and conventional ERGs were simultaneously recorded. Rats aged 15 and 17 days were studied during exposure to BGLs of two mesopic intensities and during readaptation to dark.

Results

Results were compared to adult rats. In ‘low mesopic’ BGL SOP instantly dropped significantly to about half of its dark‐adapted (DA) value contrary to mature rats, in which the SOP significantly increased. In ‘high mesopic’ BGL SOP decreased to about 20% and 30% of DA values in immature and adult rats, respectively. The process of recovery of SOP in darkness lacked the transient enhancement immediately as BGL was turned off, characteristic of adult rats. There were no major age differences in adaptive behaviour of a‐wave. In young rats, recovery of b‐wave was relatively slower.

Conclusions

Properties of BGL adaptation and readaptation functions of the neuronal adaptive system in baby retina differed compared to the adult one by being less forceful and more restrained. Handling of mesopic illumination and recovery in the dark was immature. Development of these functions of the neuronal adaptive system progresses postnatally and lags behind that of the photoreceptor response and seems to be delayed also compared to that of the bipolar response.
Exploring the longitudinal relationships between the use of grammar in text messaging and performance on grammatical tasks
Authors: Wood Clare , Kemp Nenagh , Waldron Sam
Published: June 2014

Research has demonstrated that use of texting slang (textisms) when text messaging does not appear to impact negatively on children's literacy outcomes and may even benefit children's spelling attainment. However, less attention has been paid to the impact of text messaging on the development of children's and young people's understanding of grammar. This study therefore examined the interrelationships between children's and young adults’ tendency to make grammatical violations when texting and their performance on formal assessments of spoken and written grammatical understanding, orthographic processing and spelling ability over the course of 1 year. Zero‐order correlations showed patterns consistent with previous research on textism use and spelling, and there was no evidence of any negative associations between the development of the children's performance on the grammar tasks and their use of grammatical violations when texting. Adults’ tendency to use ungrammatical word forms (‘does you’) was positively related to performance on the test of written grammar. Grammatical violations were found to be positively associated with growth in spelling for secondary school children. However, not all forms of violation were observed to be consistently used in samples of text messages taken 12 months apart or were characteristic of typical text messages. The need to differentiate between genuine errors and deliberate violation of rules is discussed, as are the educational implications of these findings.
Clinical activity of everolimus in relapsed/refractory marginal zone B‐cell lymphomas: results of a phase II study of the International Extranodal Lymphoma Study Group
Authors: Conconi Annarita , Raderer Markus , Franceschetti Silvia , Devizzi Liliana , Ferreri Andrés J. M. , Magagnoli Massimo , Arcaini Luca , Zinzani Pier Luigi , Martinelli Giovanni , Vitolo Umberto , Kiesewetter Barbara , Porro Elena , Stathis Anastasios , Gaidano Gianluca , Cavalli Franco , Zucca Emanuele
Published: June 2014

The International Extranodal Lymphoma Study Group coordinated a phase II trial to evaluate the activity and safety of everolimus in marginal zone lymphomas (MZLs). Thirty patients with relapsed/refractory MZLs received everolimus for six cycles or until dose‐limiting toxicity or progression. Median age was 71 years (range, 51–88 years). Twenty patients had extranodal, six splenic, four nodal MZL. Twenty‐four patients had stage III–IV. Median number of prior therapies was two (range 1–5). Seventeen patients had early treatment discontinuation, in most cases due to toxicity. Median number of cycles was 4·5 (range, 1–16). Among the 24 assessable patients, the overall response rate (ORR) was 25% (95% confidence interval: 10–47). Grade 3–4 adverse events were neutropenia and thrombocytopenia (17% of patients, each), infections (17%), mucositis and odontogenic infections (13%) and lung toxicity (3%). The median response duration was 6·8 months (range, 1·4–11·1+). After a median follow‐up of 14·5 months, five deaths were reported: four deaths were due to lymphoma, one was due to toxicity. In an intent‐to‐treat analysis, the projected median progression‐free survival was 14 months. The moderate antitumour activity of everolimus in relapsed/refractory MZLs and the observed toxicity limit its therapeutical applicability in these indolent entities. Lower doses of the drug and, perhaps, different strategies including combination with additional agents need to be explored.
Tackling student binge drinking: Pairing incongruent messages and measures reduces alcohol consumption
Authors: Hutter Russell R. C. , Lawton Rebecca , Pals Elisah , O'Connor Daryl B. , McEachan Rosemary R. C.
Published: June 2014

Objectives

Excessive alcohol consumption is a persistent problem in Northern European cultures. Across a 2‐week period, we tested the effect of varying message frames, message types, and response measures, in reducing alcohol consumption.

Design

Three hundred and twenty‐three respondents were allocated to a 2 (message frame: gain vs. loss) × 2 (message type: health vs. social) × 2 (response type: engaging vs. refraining) mixed design.

Method

Binge drinking and units consumed were measured at Time 1 and Time 2 (2 weeks later). Participants read (following Time 1) a gain‐ or loss‐framed message on binging emphasizing either social or health consequences and answered engaging in or refraining from drinking attitude measures.

Results

No main effects were identified. The key finding was that gain‐framed messages, when used in conjunction with engage response measures (an incongruous pairing), were highly effective in reducing alcohol consumption 2 weeks later compared with the other message frame/response measure combinations.

Conclusions

We suggest that for prevention behaviours, gain‐framed messages, when paired with engage response measures, initiate an inconsistency resolution process. Together, our findings emphasize the importance of message frame and response type when seeking to reduce alcohol consumption using persuasive health messages.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Evidence for the efficacy of message framing on health‐related behaviours is inconsistent. This could be determined by the type of behaviours and how they are measured. While much is known about framing effects for prevention or detection behaviours, less is known about the effects for abstinence behaviours including binge drinking. Furthermore, little is known about message frames when they are incongruous with behavioural measures.

What does this study add?

Shows the effect of using gain‐framed messages with engage response measures in reducing alcohol consumption.

Provides the first evidence that the efficacy of message frames are influenced by the measures used.
The role of gasotransmitters NO, H2S and CO in myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury and cardioprotection by preconditioning, postconditioning and remote conditioning
Authors: Andreadou Ioanna , Iliodromitis Efstathios K , Rassaf Tienush , Schulz Rainer , Papapetropoulos Andreas , Ferdinandy Péter
Published: June 2014

Ischaemic heart disease is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The development of cardioprotective therapeutic agents remains a partly unmet need and a challenge for both medicine and industry, with significant financial and social implications. Protection of the myocardium can be achieved by mechanical vascular occlusions such as preconditioning (PC), when brief episodes of ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) are experienced prior to ischaemia; postconditioning (PostC), when the brief episodes are experienced at the immediate onset of reperfusion; and remote conditioning (RC), when the brief episodes are experienced in another vascular territory. The elucidation of the signalling pathways, which underlie the protective effects of PC, PostC and RC, would be expected to reveal novel molecular targets for cardioprotection that could be modulated by pharmacological agents to prevent reperfusion injury. Gasotransmitters including NO, hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and carbon monoxide (CO) are a growing family of regulatory molecules that affect physiological and pathological functions. NO, H2S and CO share several common properties; they are beneficial at low concentrations but hazardous in higher amounts; they relax smooth muscle cells, inhibit apoptosis and exert anti‐inflammatory effects. In the cardiovascular system, NO, H2S and CO induce vasorelaxation and promote cardioprotection. In this review article, we summarize current knowledge on the role of the gasotransmitters NO, H2S and CO in myocardial I/R injury and cardioprotection provided by conditioning strategies and highlight future perspectives in cardioprotection by NO, H2S, CO, as well as their donor molecules.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Pharmacology of the Gasotransmitters. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2015.172.issue-6
Lipoxin A4 suppresses the development of endometriosis in an ALX receptor‐dependent manner via the p38 MAPK pathway
Authors: Wu Rongfeng , Zhou Weidong , Chen Shuo , Shi Yan , Su Lin , Zhu Maobi , Chen Qionghua , Chen Qingxi
Published: June 2014

Background and Purpose

Lipoxins can function as endogenous ‘breaking signals’ in inflammation and play important roles in the progression of endometriosis. In this study, we further investigated the molecular mechanism by which lipoxin A4 (LXA4) suppresses the development of endometriosis.

Experimental Approach

Primary endometriotic stromal cells (ESCs) were treated with IL‐1β, or pre‐incubated with LXA4 before incubation with IL‐1β. The LXA4 receptor (ALX receptor) antagonist Boc‐2 and gene‐silencing approaches were used to study the involvement of the ALX receptor in anti‐inflammatory signalling responses in ESCs. An animal model of endometriosis was induced in BALB/c mice by i.p. injection of an endometrium‐rich fragment.

Key Results

Decreased levels of LXA4 and 15‐LOX‐2 expression but increased expression of AXL receptors were observed in endometriotic tissues. LXA4 inhibited the release of inflammatory factors and phosphorylation of p38 MAPK in IL‐1β‐induced ESCs, an effect mediated by ALX receptors. LXA4 inhibited the proliferation of ESCs, as indicated by reduced DNA replication, caused G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest and down‐regulated the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen in ESCs. LXA4 also attenuated the invasive activity of ESCs mainly by suppressing the expression and activity of MMP‐9. In vivo, we further confirmed that LXA4 could inhibit the progression of endometriosis by acting as an anti‐inflammatory.

Conclusions and Implications

LXA4 exerted anti‐inflammatory, anti‐proliferative and anti‐invasive effects on endometriosis through a mechanism that involved down‐regulating the activities of p38 MAPK, which was mediated by ALX receptors.
The Potential Roles of Cell Surface pHs in Bioactive Peptide Activation
Authors: Chen Long , Liang Jun F.
Published: June 2014

Glycolytic metabolism of cells produces protons that are removed from the cytosol by transport proteins to create a pH difference between the adjacent bulk solution and the cell membrane surface. Therefore, tissue cells have distinct surface pHs because of varied glycocalyx and proton production capability. In this study, we proved the role of cell surface pH in peptide–cell interaction and peptide activation using lytic peptides with pH‐dependent activity as probes. Properly, selected peptides could sense the specific pH zones on cells and thus demonstrated varied activity to tissue cells with different surface pHs. For a specific cell, the activity of pH‐sensitive peptides changed accordingly as the cell surface pH was tuned up or down by proton channel regulators. Mechanistic studies revealed that cell surface pH directly affected peptide insertion into membranes by altering the secondary structure and aggregation status of membrane‐bound pH‐sensitive peptides. A pH‐sensitive lytic peptide‐designed based on the cell surface pH difference between a normal–cancer cell pair showed good selectivity to cancer cells. Therefore, cell surface pHs may present new opportunities to design therapeutic peptides with high cell specificity and selectivity.
Hologram Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship, Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Studies of Inhibitors for CXCR4
Authors: Zhang Chongqian , Du Chunmiao , Feng Zhiwei , Zhu Jingyu , Li Youyong
Published: June 2014

CXCR4 plays a crucial role as a co‐receptor with CCR5 for HIV‐1 anchoring to mammalian cell membrane and is implicated in cancer metastasis and inflammation. In the current work, we study the relationship of structure and activity of AMD11070 derivatives and other inhibitors of CXCR4 using HQSAR, docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. We obtain an HQSAR model (q2 = 0.779), and the HQSAR result illustrates that AMD11070 shows a high antiretroviral activity. As HQSAR only provides 2D information, we perform docking and MD to study the interaction of It1t, AMD3100, and AMD3465 with CXCR4. Our results illustrate that the binding are affected by two crucial residues Asp97 and Glu288. The butyl amine moiety of AMD11070 contributes to its high antiretroviral activity. Without a butyl amine moiety, (2,7a‐Dihydro‐1H‐benzoimidazol‐2‐ylmethyl)‐methyl‐(5,6,7,8‐tetrahydro‐quinolin‐8‐yl)‐amine (compound 5a) shows low antiretroviral activity. Our results provide structural details about the interactions between the inhibitors and CXCR4, which are useful for rational drug design of CXCR4.
Predictors of quality of life in 102 patients with treated Cushing's disease
Authors: Carluccio Alessia , Sundaram Nina K. , Chablani Sumedha , Amrock Levana G. , Lambert Jessica K. , Post Kalmon D. , Geer Eliza B.
Published: June 2014

Objective

To identify predictors for quality of life (QoL) in treated Cushing's disease (CD) and quantify patients' assessment of their disease status.

Context

Significant reductions in QoL exist in CD patients despite treatment. Identifying predictors of QoL is paramount to the long‐term management of these patents.

Design

A cross‐sectional study was conducted of patients with treated CD. Patients completed a medical history questionnaire and three validated quality of life assessments: Cushing's QoL Questionnaire (CushingQoL), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and Nottingham Health Profile (NHP).

Patients

102 patients (75·7% female, mean time since surgery 7·4 years) with treated CD were included.

Measurements

Patients were categorized by biochemical and self‐identified disease status. Mean CushingQoL, anxiety and depression scores were compared by unpaired t‐tests. Multiple linear regressions were performed on the whole cohort to assess for predictors of impaired QoL.

Results

Ninety‐two per cent of the cohort met criteria for biochemical remission, but only 80·4% felt they had achieved remission. Among those with biochemical remission, those who also self‐identified as being in remission had higher CushingQoL scores than those who self‐identified as having persistent disease (P = 0·042). Anxiety (P = 0·032) and depression (P = 0·018) scores were lower, and CushingQoL scores were higher (P = 0·05) in patients who self‐identified as being in remission compared to persistence. Recovery time, BMI, gender and age were also predictors for QoL.

Conclusion

Our study identifies the discordance that can exist between biochemical and self‐assessed disease status and demonstrates its impact on QoL in patients with CD. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating patients' disease perceptions in their management.
Specific behaviour, mood and personality traits may contribute to obesity in patients with craniopharyngioma
Authors: Roemmler‐Zehrer J. , Geigenberger V. , Störmann S. , Ising M. , Pfister H. , Sievers C. , Stalla G.K. , Schopohl J.
Published: June 2014

Introduction

Patients with craniopharyngioma (CP) often suffer from obesity, but the underlying causes are still not fully understood. We compared CP to patients with nonfunctioning pituitary adenoma (NFPA) and to a control group (CG) using standardized questionnaires to investigate whether behavioural, mood or personality traits contribute to obesity.

Methods

We compared 31 patients with CP (42% male, 53 ± 15·1 years) to 26 patients with NFPA (71% male, 63·2 ± 10·3 years) and to age‐ and gender‐matched local CG (ratio 2:1). Normative data from the literature are included for reference. Patients were asked to complete eleven standardized questionnaires. Two questionnaires were used to evaluate eating disorders (FEV, EDE‐Q), one depression (BDI), one anxiety (STAI), three health‐related quality of life (SF‐36, EuroQoL, QoL‐AGHDA), one sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale), two personality (EPQ‐RK, TPQ) and one body image (FKB‐20).

Results

Patients with CP scored significantly higher in conscious hunger perception (FEV, CP 5·8 ± 3·2 scores, NFPA 3·6 ± 3·3 scores, CG 3·0 ± 2·5, P < 0·001). They had similar scores for BDI compared with NFPA, but higher scores to CG (P < 0·001, CP 10·6 ± 8·3, NFPA 7·5 ± 5·7, CG 4·96 ± 4·2). CP and NFPA scored higher than CG for anxiety and personality traits such as harm avoidance, fatigability and asthenia and slightly higher for neuroticism. No differences were seen for EDE‐Q, quality of life, daytime sleepiness and body image between CP and NFPA. However, differences could be observed to normative data from the literature.

Conclusion

Obesity in patients with CP might be influenced by eating disorders, negative mood alterations and increased anxiety‐related personality traits.
Enhanced oxidative stress and platelet activation in patients with Cushing's syndrome
Authors: Karamouzis Ioannis , Berardelli Rita , D'Angelo Valentina , Fussotto Beatrice , Zichi Clizia , Giordano Roberta , Settanni Fabio , Maccario Mauro , Ghigo Ezio , Arvat Emanuela
Published: June 2014

Objective

Cushing Syndrome (CS) is implicated by increased cardiovascular risk (CVR) leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Oxidative stress (OS) and platelet activation (PA) are associated with increased CVR. However, scarce data of OS in CS exist. Our objective was to determine the oxidant–antioxidant balance in CS.

Design

Fourteen patients with CS at diagnosis and fourteen healthy subjects (NS) were evaluated OS by measuring plasma 15‐F2t‐Isoprostane (15‐F2t‐IsoP), PA by thromboxaneB2 levels (TXB2), and antioxidant reserve measuring total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and serum vitamin E.

Results

15‐F2t‐IsoP and TXB2 levels were significantly higher (P < 0·01) in CS, while vitamin E levels were higher in NS (P < 0·03). 15‐F2t‐IsoP levels were significantly higher (P < 0·01) in complicated vs not‐complicated CS and NS and significantly higher (P < 0·03) in CS not‐complicated vs NS. TXB2 levels were significantly reduced (P < 0·03) in NS vs complicated and not‐complicated CS. A negative correlation between Vitamin E and UFC was observed in CS (P < 0·05 r = −0·497). TXB2 correlated with glucose, HbA1c and T‐score (P < 0·05 r = 0·512, P < 0·03 r = 0·527 and P < 0·01 r = 0·783, respectively) and HDL (P < 0·01 r = −0·651). 15‐F2t‐IsoP correlated with triglicerides, HbA1c and diastolic pressure (P < 0·01 r = 0·650, P < 0·03 r = 0·571 and P < 0·05 r = 0·498, respectively) and HDL (P < 0·03 r = −0·594).

Conclusions

This study emphasizes the major role of OS in CS. As our findings demonstrated that enhanced OS and PA take place in this rare metabolic disorder which is associated with increased CVR, it could be suggested that these biochemical alterations can further contribute in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, increased CVR and mortality in CS.
The use of botulinum toxin in Otorhinolaryngology: an updated review
Authors: Mandavia R. , Dessouky O. , Dhar V. , D'Souza A.
Published: June 2014

Background

The use of botulinum toxin in Otorhinolaryngology has rapidly expanded over the last decade. Current observation is that the use of botulinum toxin in Otorhinolaryngology is relatively poorly acknowledged by Otorhinolaryngologists.

Objective of review

To summarise the non‐cosmetic uses of botulinum toxin in Otorhinolaryngology.

Type of review

Narrative.

SearchStrategy and evaluation method

A literature search was performed using theMedline andEmbase databases. Combinations of ‘botulinum toxin’ with each indication were searched. A citation was included if it evaluated a non‐cosmetic use of botulinum toxin in Otorhinolaryngology. Eligibility of studies was assessed by two reviewers. A total of 1187 abstracts were reviewed and 97 articles identified.

Conclusions

Botulinum toxin provides an effective and minimally invasive treatment option in a wide range of non‐cosmetic indications. Side‐effects are few and transient with an excellent safety profile. Ongoing research is required to fully critically appraise its uses.
Neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin associated with irreversibility of pre‐liver transplant kidney dysfunction
Authors: Åberg Fredrik , Lempinen Marko , Hollmén Maria , Nordin Arno , Mäkisalo Heikki , Isoniemi Helena
Published: June 2014

Kidney outcomes in early post‐liver transplantation (LT) are crucial for long‐term prognosis, but difficult to predict. Among 203 adult LT patients, we studied the value of plasma neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) measured pre‐LT for predicting acute kidney injury (AKI), kidney‐replacement therapy within three months, and kidney dysfunction at three months post‐LT. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was estimated by creatinine‐based and cystatin C‐based equations. Highest NGAL levels were among patients on pre‐LT kidney‐replacement therapy, whereas NGAL exceeded 200 μg/L in only three (2%) patients with pre‐LT GFR >60 mL/min. Pre‐LT NGAL >260 μg/L predicted GFR <60 mL/min at three months post‐LT (OR 17.8, 95% CI 2.1–153) independently of 19 other variables reflecting recipient characteristics, liver and kidney function, perioperative hemodynamic stress, and immunosuppression. Of 81 patients with pre‐LT GFR <60 mL/min, 48% had GFR <60 mL/min at three months, and an NGAL level >260 μg/L predicted this outcome with 90% specificity and 46% sensitivity. NGAL failed to predict post‐LT AKI or need for temporary kidney‐replacement therapy. In conclusion, NGAL independently predicted irreversibility of pre‐LT kidney dysfunction and could thus help in optimizing patient care and in the decision to perform combined liver–kidney transplantation. Pre‐LT NGAL was not useful in patients with preserved pre‐LT kidney function or in predicting post‐LT AKI.
Variation of heart transplant rates in the United States during holidays
Authors: Grodin Justin L. , Ayers Colby R. , Thibodeau Jennifer T. , Mishkin Joseph D. , Mammen Pradeep P. A. , Markham David W. , Drazner Mark H. , Patel Parag C.
Published: June 2014

Background

Some cardiac transplant programs may upgrade listed patients to United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) 1A‐status during the holidays. Whether more transplants actually occur during holidays is unknown.

Methods

We assessed rates of single‐organ heart transplantation from 2001 to 2010 for recipients age ≥18 yr using the UNOS database. Patients were stratified by transplantation during holiday (±3 d, n = 2375) and non‐holiday periods (n = 16 112). Holidays included Easter/Spring break, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas/New Years (winter holidays). Secondary analysis assessing transplant rates across seasons was also completed.

Results

Donor and recipient characteristics were similar between groups. Compared with non‐holidays, July 4th had higher transplant rates (5.69 vs. 5.09 transplants/d, p = 0.03) while the winter holiday had lower transplant rates (4.50 vs. 5.09 transplants/d, p < 0.01). There was a trend toward lower transplant rates for all holidays compared with non‐holidays (p = 0.06). Transplant rates were significantly different across seasons with greater rates in spring and summer (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Heart transplant rates were higher during the July 4th and lower during the winter holidays. Although there was a higher likelihood of transplantation during the spring and summer seasons, upgrading patients to 1A status during most holidays may not improve their chances for transplantation.
Beneficial cardiovascular remodeling following arterio‐venous fistula ligation post‐renal transplantation: a longitudinal magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Dundon Benjamin K. , Torpey David K. , Nelson Adam J. , Wong Dennis T. L. , Duncan Rae F. , Meredith Ian T. , Faull Randall J. , Worthley Stephen G. , Worthley Matthew I.
Published: June 2014

Despite improvements in survival following renal transplantation, high rates of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality remain. Persistence of arterio‐venous fistulae (AVF) may contribute to maladaptive cardiovascular remodeling and poor health outcomes in this cohort. Utilizing recent advances in cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), we prospectively evaluated alterations in cardiac and vascular structure and function six months after elective ligation of AVF, following stable, successful renal transplantation. Eighteen subjects underwent CMR evaluation of cardiac structure and function, aortic distensibility and endothelial function prior to AVF ligation and at six months. At follow‐up, while left ventricular ejection fraction was unchanged, mean cardiac output decreased by 15.6% (9.6 ± 2.9 L/min vs. 8.1 ± 2.3 L/min, p = 0.004) and left ventricular mass had regressed by 10% (166 ± 56 g vs. 149 ± 51 g, p = 0.0001). Significant improvements were also noted in right ventricular and biatrial structure and function. Aortic distensibility was unchanged at follow‐up, but endothelial dependent vasodilatation had improved (2.5 ± 6.5% vs. 8.0 ± 5.9%, p = 0.04). Elective AVF ligation following successful renal transplantation is associated with improvements in left ventricular mass, right ventricular, and biatrial structure and function. Further randomized studies are warranted to determine the potential clinical improvement following AVF ligation in this cohort.
Irrigation Access and Vulnerability to Climate‐Induced Hydrological Change in the EcuadorianAndes
Authors: Skarbø Kristine , VanderMolen Kristin
Published: June 2014

Climate change is projected to substantially alter the hydrological cycles of mountainous regions, with pronounced consequences for the human settlements in these areas. Because projections of climatic changes and their environmental and societal impacts in local settings are uncertain, policies to reduce vulnerability and strengthen adaptation should be informed by ongoing processes in sites already exposed to climatic variability and change. This paper examines vulnerability to hydrological change inNorthernEcuador and shows how access to irrigation water mediates the ability of different groups of farmers to adapt. We argue that present vulnerabilities need to be understood in the context of the history of resource rights distribution in the area and that agricultural adaptation would be aided by a reform of current water rights, allowing water resources to be more equitably distributed.
Bringing Science and Technology Studies into Agricultural Anthropology: Technology Development as Cultural Encounter between Farmers and Researchers
Authors: Crane Todd A.
Published: June 2014

The “farmer‐back‐to‐farmer” model of agricultural development, pioneered by Robert Rhoades and Robert Booth, urged technologists to use farmers' knowledge and practices as both the starting point for technological innovations as well as the ultimate measure of the value of innovation. This approach was premised upon close ethnographic study of farmers' livelihoods, especially how technical agricultural practices interacted with household dynamics, community structures, and cultural values. However, the original “farmer‐back‐to‐farmer” approach left the “expert” practice of science and technology as an implicitly practical and apolitical space rather than as a subject of ethnographic study. The increasing and diverse articulation of farmers' livelihood practices with the professional practices of agricultural scientists demands theoretical tools that bring them all into the same frame of analysis. This article proposes that the integration of agricultural anthropology and science and technology studies provides a well‐balanced toolkit for analyzing participatory technology development as a space of cultural encounter.
The British Approach to Privatisation
Authors: Myddelton D. R.
Published: June 2014

Thirty or so years after the 1945–51 Labour government nationalised the ‘commanding heights’ of the British economy, these enterprises were collectively losing the equivalent of £2 billion annually in today's money. In 1979 a Conservative government embarked on a programme of privatisation which handed out hefty inducements to managers, employees and investors and yielded total net proceeds of nearly £70 billion over 18 years. The introduction of competition (as well as regulation) reduced overstaffing and strike threats in state‐run industries and eliminated most of the losses.
Does Privatisation Contribute to the Performance of a Health Care System?
Authors: Zweifel Peter
Published: June 2014

This paper considers whether privatisation can contribute to the performance of a health care system. In order to answer this question, five well‐known criteria of economic performance are proposed. The finding is that privatisation is quite likely to contribute to all of these criteria. The crucial condition, however, is that privatisation does not amount to the creation of public monopolies.
Change Your Prison, Change Your Outcomes, Change Your Community
Authors: Opperman Guy
Published: June 2014

UK prisons have a very poor record in preventing reoffending. This paper attempts to identify a desirable kind of prison system. It discusses privatisation and payment‐by‐results programmes. Novel suggestions include the potential for charity‐, faith‐ or community‐based organisations to run prisons, and a possible voucher scheme for use by prisoners.
Handing Over the School Keys: The Impact of Privatisation on Education Quality
Authors: Sahlgren Gabriel Heller
Published: June 2014

In recent decades, privatisation has become a mainstream policy option considered by politicians worldwide to improve the quality of schooling. This paper discusses the theoretical reasoning underlying the links between privatisation and education quality/productivity, and evaluates the empirical research. For privatisation to function well, it is crucial that the right competitive incentives exist, which in turn requires specific system design. While the cross‐national literature consistently indicates positive long‐term effects of private provision, the within‐country literature is more mixed (although there is very little evidence of negative effects). Yet it is important to note the significant flaws in the system design of many privatisation initiatives, which have unsurprisingly ensured that the effects of these initiatives thus far have been small or moderate at best. Flawed privatisations are unlikely to yield very strong gains. The policy implication is that politicians must pay careful attention to system design when privatising their education systems.
Carotid Adventitial Vasa Vasorum and Intima‐Media Thickness in a Primary Prevention Population
Authors: Sampson Uchechukwu K. A. , Harrell Frank E. , Fazio Sergio , Nwosu Sam , Mercaldo Nate , Mensah George A. , Davidson Michael H. , Coll Blai , Feinstein Steve B.
Published: June 2014

Background

Vasa vasorum (VV) vessels are critical in the genesis of atherosclerosis. Therefore, we assessed measures of carotid VV, intima–media thickness (CIMT), and patient risk factors in a primary prevention population.

Methods

We used multivariable linear models to evaluate the relationship between baseline covariates and a measure of carotid VV (VV ratio) and CIMT among 324 diabetics and 141 nondiabetics.

Results

Median CIMT (in mm) and VV ratio among nondiabetics were 0.82 ± 0.22 and 0.80 ± 0.19, respectively, and 1.06 ± 0.19 and 1.21 ± 0.26 among diabetics (P < 0.0001). Diabetes was associated with 36% (95% CI: 24.3–48.0, P < 0.001) higher VV ratio whereas a unit change in BMI was associated with ≈1% (95% CI: 0.5–1.4, P < 0.001) change in VV ratio. A 10‐year increase in age was associated with 4% (95% CI: 1–7, P = 0.005) higher CIMT. Each 10 mmHg increase in mean systolic blood pressure was associated with 2% (95% CI: 1–4, P = 0.003) higher CIMT whereas diabetes conferred 31% (95% CI: 19.1–42.1, P < 0.001) higher CIMT. Female sex was associated with a 9% (95% CI: −12.9 to −4.1, P < 0.001) lower CIMT. Low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, blood pressure, and CIMT were not significantly associated with VV ratio.

Conclusion

In this cohort of patients with low CIMT, VV ratio, and CIMT were distinctly unrelated, but each independently associated with diabetes. VV ratio and CIMT relationships warrant further investigation in large‐scale studies and across a spectrum of atherosclerostic states.