bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physiopathology of necrobiotic xanthogranuloma with monoclonal gammopathy
Authors: Szalat R. , Pirault J. , Fermand J.‐P. , Carrié A. , Saint‐Charles F. , Olivier M. , Robillard P. , Frisdal E. , Villard E. F. , Cathébras P. , Bruckert E. , Chapman M. John , Giral P. , Guerin M. , Lesnik P. , Goff W. Le
Published: January 2014

Rationale

Xanthomatosis associated with monoclonal gammopathy includes hyperlipidaemic xanthoma (HX), normolipidaemic xanthoma (NX) and necrobiotic xanthogranuloma (NXG). All three pathologies are characterized by skin or visceral lesions related to cholesterol accumulation, monoclonal immunoglobulin (MIg) and hypocomplementemia. The pathophysiology underlying NXG remains unknown although the involvement of MIg is suspected.

Objective

To provide further insights into the pathophysiology of NXG, we evaluated the plasma lipid phenotype, mechanisms involved in cellular cholesterol accumulation and role of MIg in an analysis of blood and plasma markers of inflammation in 16 patients with xanthomatosis [NXG (n = 8) and NX (n = 8)] associated with monoclonal IgG relative to the relevant controls.

Results

The lipid profile of patients with NXG was characterized by a low HDL‐C phenotype and an abnormal distribution of HDL particles. Sera from patients with NXG induced cholesterol accumulation in human macrophages. This accumulation was due in part to a significant reduction in the HDL capacity to promote cholesterol efflux from macrophages, which was not found in the case of NX. The MIg of NXG and NX patients was tested positively by ELISA to recognize a large spectrum of lipoproteins. High plasma levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines (TNFα and IL‐6), soluble cytokine receptors (sIL‐6R, sTNFRI and sTNFRII), adhesion molecules (VCAM‐1 and ICAM‐1) and chemokines (MCP‐1, IL‐8 and MIP‐1α) were observed in both patients with NXG and NX, revealing a specific xanthoma inflammatory signature which was inversely correlated with plasma levels of anti‐inflammatory HDL. However, patients with NXG were distinguished by elevated levels of IL‐15 and a marked increase in the rate of intermediate CD14++CD16+ monocytes.

Conclusion

This study revealed that NXG is characterized by impaired macrophage lipid homeostasis associated with a systemic inflammatory profile that may result from the interaction of MIg and lipoproteins.
The Concept of Mental Toughness: Tests of Dimensionality, Nomological Network, and Traitness
Authors: Gucciardi Daniel F. , Hanton Sheldon , Gordon Sandy , Mallett Clifford J. , Temby Philip
Published: January 2014

Mental toughness has received increased scholarly attention in recent years, yet conceptual issues related to its (a) dimensionality, (b) nomological network, and (c) traitness remain unresolved. The series of studies reported in this article were designed to examine these three substantive issues across several achievement contexts, including sport, education, military, and the workplace. Five studies were conducted to examine these research aims—Study 1: N = 30; Study 2: calibration sample (n = 418), tertiary students (n = 500), athletes (n = 427), and employees (n = 550); Study 3: N = 497 employees; Study 4: N = 203 tertiary students; Study 5: N = 115 army candidates. Collectively, the results of these studies revealed that mental toughness may be best conceptualized as a unidimensional rather than a multidimensional concept; plays an important role in performance, goal progress, and thriving despite stress; and can vary and have enduring properties across situations and time. This series of studies provides a foundation for further basic and applied research of mental toughness across various achievement contexts.
Nonexclusivity, Linear Pricing, and Annuity Market Screening
Authors: Rothschild Casey
Published: January 2014

ABSTRACT

I develop a graphical approach for studying two‐type adverse‐selection insurance markets with (1) compulsory contracting, (2) linear pricing, (3) nonexclusive contracting, and (4) multiple indemnity states. The UK compulsory annuity market is a natural application. Despite fully linear pricing and nonexclusivity, screening of different types into distinct contracts—using the pattern of insurance payments across distinct indemnity states rather than quantity restrictions—is possible. Efficient screening involves distorting both types’ contracts away from first best contracts, for example, via front‐loaded annuities. These distortions are attributable to convexification constraints that I identify as the nonexclusive, linear‐pricing analog of canonical incentive compatibility constraints.
Optimal Investment and Premium Policies Under Risk Shifting and Solvency Regulation
Authors: Filipović Damir , Kremslehner Robert , Muermann Alexander
Published: January 2014

Abstract

Limited liability creates an incentive for insurers to increase the risk of the assets and liabilities at the expense of policyholders. We show that solvency capital requirements restrict the set of feasible investment and premium policies and can thereby improve efficiency under the risk‐shifting problem. This finding becomes particularly important in light of Solvency II, the forthcoming European risk‐based solvency regime for insurers. We provide evidence for Solvency II–related efficiency effects in a calibration study for a nonlife insurer average portfolio.
Dental service mix among older adults aged 65 and over, United States, 1999 and 2009
Authors: Manski Richard J. , Cohen Leonard A. , Brown Erwin , Carper Kelly V. , Vargas Clemencia , Macek Mark D.
Published: January 2014

Objectives

The oral health of older Americans will assume increasing importance because of their increasing numbers and the evolving connections between oral health and general health. To establish a baseline and provide data for oral health workforce models, this report describes the types of dental procedures received by US adults 65 years and older in 2009 and looks at trends since 1999.

Methods

Data for this analysis came from the 1999 and 2009 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. The primary outcome variable represented the types of dental procedures that were received during a dental visit in the preceding year. Descriptive variables included dental insurance and poverty status. Analysis was restricted to adults aged 65 and over.

Results

In 2009, diagnostic and preventive procedures accounted for almost three‐quarters of all services. Compared with services received by those with private insurance, there were significantly fewer diagnostic and endodontic procedures among those with public coverage. Between 1999 and 2009, the proportion of preventive services significantly increased, whereas the proportion of restorative and endodontic services significantly decreased. Also, the likelihood of receiving preventive procedures increased, whereas the probability of receiving restorative or endodontic services decreased.

Conclusions

Findings point to a shift in the mix of dental services received by older adults during the two periods. The predominance of diagnostic and preventive procedures has important access and workforce implications. An expanded role for dental hygienists in helping to meet the oral health needs of older adults is possible given a hygienist's current scope of practice.
How Should Customers Be Integrated for Effective Interorganizational NPD Teams? An Input–Process–Output Perspective
Authors: Stock Ruth Maria
Published: January 2014

Interorganizational new product development (NPD) teams with business customers are rapidly becoming more prevalent; yet the drivers of such cooperations at the team level remain unclear to practitioners and researchers alike. This study proposes an input–process–output model in which various characteristics of interorganizational teams affect NPD team effectiveness through the mediating construct of NPD team cooperation. Furthermore, various moderators, reflecting the supplier's dependence on the customers (customer power and customer participation) and the supplier's environmental uncertainty (market dynamism and technological turbulence), affect the strength of the underlying relationships. The results show that customer power positively affects the relationship between intrapersonal team characteristics and team cooperation. In addition, a negative moderation occurs in interpersonal characteristics. Customer participation exhibits opposing moderating effects. Regarding the supplier's environmental uncertainty, market dynamism and technological turbulence strengthen the relationships under consideration.
Curvature in models of the photosynthesis‐irradiance response
Authors: Jones Chris T. , Craig Susanne E. , Barnett Audrey B. , MacIntyre Hugh L. , Cullen John J.
Published: January 2014

An equation for the rate of photosynthesis as a function of irradiance introduced by T. T. Bannister included an empirical parameter b to account for observed variations in curvature between the initial slope and the maximum rate of photosynthesis. Yet researchers have generally favored equations with fixed curvature, possibly because b was viewed as having no physiological meaning. We developed an analytic photosynthesis‐irradiance equation relating variations in curvature to changes in the degree of connectivity between photosystems, and also considered a recently published alternative, based on changes in the size of the plastoquinone pool. When fitted to a set of 185 observed photosynthesis‐irradiance curves, it was found that the Bannister equation provided the best fit more frequently compared to either of the analytic equations. While Bannister's curvature parameter engendered negligible improvement in the statistical fit to the study data, we argued that the parameter is nevertheless quite useful because it allows for consistent estimates of initial slope and saturation irradiance for observations exhibiting a range of curvatures, which would otherwise have to be fitted to different fixed‐curvature equations. Using theoretical models, we also found that intra‐ and intercellular self‐shading can result in biased estimates of both curvature and the saturation irradiance parameter. We concluded that Bannister's is the best currently available equation accounting for variations in curvature precisely because it does not assign inappropriate physiological meaning to its curvature parameter, and we proposed that b should be thought of as the expression of the integration of all factors impacting curvature.
Comparison of 4 Direct Coombs' Test Methods with Polyclonal Antiglobulins in Anemic and Nonanemic Dogs for In‐Clinic or Laboratory Use
Authors: Caviezel L.L. , Raj K. , Giger U.
Published: January 2014

Background

Difficulties with the direct antiglobulin test (DAT) and its apparent lack of sensitivity and specificity for immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) in dogs have raised skepticism regarding its diagnostic value.

Objective

To compare differentDATs and other hematologic parameters in dogs.

Animals

Anticoagulated blood samples from 59 nonanemic and 46 anemic dogs (±IMHA) from a research colony and veterinary clinics.

Methods

Prospective observational study: Immunochromatographic strip, gel microcolumn, and capillary techniques were compared with standard microtiterDATusing 2 polyvalent antiglobulins. Spherocytosis, autoagglutination, osmotic fragility, and clinical data were assessed.

Results

Blood samples from all 59 nonanemic dogs wereDAT‐. Among 46 anemic dogs, 33 were suspected ofIMHA, but only 20 wereDAT+. Old and newDATmethods yielded comparable and consistent results even after storage of chilled blood samples for 1 week. Spherocytosis and autoagglutination (that did not persist after washing) were noted in 15 and 16DAT+ dogs, respectively. The other 26 anemic dogs, including 21 previously transfused dogs and 4 with autoagglutination, testedDAT‐ by the other methods. Osmotic fragility was increased in 70% (19/27) of anemic and all 15DAT+ dogs tested. Limited follow‐up testing revealedDAT+ results for 3–70 days.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The novel strip and capillaryDATmethods are promising adjunct in‐clinic tools. Despite prior immunosuppressive treatment and presence of autoagglutination, theDATwas positive in anemic dogs withIMHA. Transfusion did not cause falseDAT+ results. Our results supportDATas a cornerstone in the diagnosis of canineIMHA.
Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography for Assessment of Systolic Function in Dogs with Experimentally Induced Mitral Regurgitation
Authors: Suzuki R. , Matsumoto H. , Teshima T. , Mochizuki Y. , Koyama H.
Published: January 2014

Background

Systolic dysfunction is associated with poor outcomes in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease. However, assessment of systolic variables by conventional echocardiographic methods is difficult in these dogs because of mitral regurgitation (MR).

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that assessment of systolic function by dobutamine stress may identify systolic dysfunction in dogs withMR, and that 2‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography (2D‐STE) could quantitatively evaluate myocardial function.

Animals

Anesthetized dogs with experimentally inducedMR.

Methods

Dogs were examined for systolic myocardial deformations using 2D‐STEduring dobutamine infusion before and 3 and 6 months afterMRinduction. We evaluated peak systolic rotation and rotation rate in each basal and apical view; peak systolic torsion and torsion rate were also calculated.

Results

Invasive peak positive first derivatives of left ventricular pressure (dp/dt) were significantly decreased in dogs 6 months after induction ofMRcompared with pre‐MRresults. After 3 and 6 months ofMR, dogs had diminished peak systolic torsion values and torsion rates in response to dobutamine infusion compared with pre‐MRresults (3 months,P < .001 andP = .006; 6 months,P = .003 andP = .021). These results were significantly correlated with overall invasive dp/dt (r = 0.644,P < .001;r = 0.696,P < .001).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Decreased torsion during dobutamine infusion in dogs withMRmay reflect latent systolic dysfunction. Dobutamine infusion, therefore, may be useful for the assessment of systolic function in dogs withMR.
True navigation in birds: from quantum physics to global migration
Authors: Holland R. A.
Published: January 2014

Birds are capable of true navigation, the ability to return to a known goal from a place they have never visited before. This is demonstrated most spectacularly during the vast migratory journeys made by these animals year after year, often between continents and occasionally global in nature. However, it remains one of the great unanswered questions in science, despite more than 50 years of research in this field. Nevertheless, the study of true navigation in birds has made significant advances in the previous 20 years, in part thanks to the integration of many disciplines outside its root in behavioural biology, to address questions of neurobiology, molecular aspects, and the physics of sensory systems and environmental cues involved in bird navigation, often involving quantum physics. However, true navigation remains a controversial field, with many conflicting and confusing results making interpretation difficult, particularly for those outside or new to the field. Unlike many general texts on migration, which avoid discussion of these issues, this review will present these conflicting findings and assess the state of the field of true navigation during bird migration.
Host plant richness explains diversity of ectomycorrhizal fungi: Response to the comment of Tedersoo et al. (2014)
Authors: Gao Cheng , Shi Nan‐Nan , Liu Yue‐Xing , Zheng Yong , Ding Qiong , Mi Xiang‐Cheng , Ma Ke‐Ping , Wubet Tesfaye , Buscot François , Guo Liang‐Dong
Published: January 2014

Exploring the relationships between the biodiversity of groups of interacting organisms yields insight into ecosystem stability and function (Hooper et al. ; Wardle ). We demonstrated positive relationships between host plant richness and ectomycorrhizal (EM) fungal diversity both in a field study in subtropical China (Gutianshan) and in a meta‐analysis of temperate and tropical studies (Gao et al. ). However, based on re‐evaluation of our data sets, Tedersoo et al. () argue that the observed positive correlation between EM fungal richness and EM plant richness at Gutianshan and also in our metastudies was based mainly from (i) a sampling design with inconsistent species pool and (ii) poor data compilation for the meta‐analysis. Accordingly, we checked our data sets and repeated the analysis performed by Tedersoo et al. (). In contrast to Tedersoo et al. (), our re‐analysis still confirms a positive effect of plant richness on EM fungal diversity in Gutianshan, temperate and tropical ecosystems, respectively.
The ancientBritons: groundwater fauna survived extreme climate change over tens of millions of years acrossNW Europe
Authors: McInerney Caitríona E. , Maurice Louise , Robertson Anne L. , Knight Lee R. F. D. , Arnscheidt Jörg , Venditti Chris , Dooley James S. G. , Mathers Thomas , Matthijs Severine , Eriksson Karin , Proudlove Graham S. , Hänfling Bernd
Published: January 2014

Global climate changes during theCenozoic (65.5–0 Ma) caused major biological range shifts and extinctions. In northernEurope, for example, a pattern of few endemics and the dominance of wide‐ranging species is thought to have been determined by thePleistocene (2.59–0.01 Ma) glaciations. This study, in contrast, reveals an ancient subsurface fauna endemic toBritain andIreland. Using aBayesian phylogenetic approach, we found that two species of stygobitic invertebrates (genusNiphargus) have not only survived the entirePleistocene in refugia but have persisted for at least 19.5 million years. OtherNiphargusspecies form distinct cryptic taxa that diverged from their nearest continental relative between 5.6 and 1.0 Ma. The study also reveals an unusual biogeographical pattern in theNiphargusgenus. It originated in north‐westEurope approximately 87 Ma and underwent a gradual range expansion. Phylogenetic diversity and species age are highest in north‐westEurope, suggesting resilience to extreme climate change and strongly contrasting the patterns seen in surface fauna. However, species diversity is highest in south‐eastEurope, indicating that once the genus spread to these areas (approximately 25 Ma), geomorphological and climatic conditions enabled much higher diversification. Our study highlights that groundwater ecosystems provide an important contribution to biodiversity and offers insight into the interactions between biological and climatic processes.
Spanish barley landraces outperform modern cultivars at low‐productivity sites
Authors: Yahiaoui Samia , Cuesta‐Marcos Alfonso , Gracia Maria P. , Medina Blanca , Lasa José M. , Casas Ana M. , Ciudad Francisco J. , Montoya José L. , Moralejo Marian , Molina‐Cano José L. , Igartua Ernesto
Published: January 2014

Barley landraces from the western Mediterranean area have not been thoroughly exploited by modern breeding. This study aims at assessing the agronomic value of a core collection of lines derived from landraces of Spanish origin and to compare them with sets of successful old and modern cultivars. The agronomic performance of a set of 175 barley genotypes, comprising 159 landrace‐derived lines and 26 cultivars, was evaluated in a series of 10 field trials, carried out over 3 years and several locations. The most relevant trait of the landraces was higher grain yield at low production sites than cultivars, which may be related with better ability to fill the grain under stressful conditions. On the other hand, lateness, excessive plant height and lodging were negative traits frequently found in the landraces. Large genotype‐by‐environment interaction (GEI) for grain yield was detected, related partly with differences between germplasm groups, probably indicating local adaptation. GEI was also associated with the interaction of heading time and powdery mildew resistance with temperature.
Role of H2O2 dynamics in brassinosteroid‐induced stomatal closure and opening in Solanum lycopersicum
Authors: XIA XIAO‐JIAN , GAO CHUN‐JUAN , SONG LIU‐XIA , ZHOU YAN‐HONG , SHI KAI , YU JING‐QUAN
Published: January 2014

Brassinosteroids (BRs) are essential for plant growth and development; however, their roles in the regulation of stomatal opening or closure remain obscure. Here, the mechanism underlying BR‐induced stomatal movements is studied. The effects of 24‐epibrassinolide (EBR) on the stomatal apertures of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) were measured by light microscopy using epidermal strips of wild type (WT), the abscisic acid (ABA)‐deficient notabilis (not) mutant, and plants silenced for SlBRI1, SlRBOH1 and SlGSH1. EBR induced stomatal opening within an appropriate range of concentrations, whereas high concentrations of EBR induced stomatal closure. EBR‐induced stomatal movements were closely related to dynamic changes in H2O2 and redox status in guard cells. The stomata of SlRBOH1‐silenced plants showed a significant loss of sensitivity to EBR. However, ABA deficiency abolished EBR‐induced stomatal closure but did not affect EBR‐induced stomatal opening. Silencing of SlGSH1, the critical gene involved in glutathione biosynthesis, disrupted glutathione redox homeostasis and abolished EBR‐induced stomatal opening. The results suggest that transient H2O2 production is essential for poising the cellular redox status of glutathione, which plays an important role in BR‐induced stomatal opening. However, a prolonged increase in H2O2 facilitated ABA signalling and stomatal closure.
Photoprotection of human skin beyond ultraviolet radiation
Authors: Grether‐Beck Susanne , Marini Alessandra , Jaenicke Thomas , Krutmann Jean
Published: January 2014

Photoprotection of human skin by means of sunscreens or daily skin‐care products is traditionally centered around the prevention of acute (e.g. sunburn) and chronic (e.g. skin cancer and photoaging) skin damage that may result from exposure to ultraviolet rays (UVB and UVA). Within the last decade, however, it has been appreciated that wavelengths beyond the ultraviolet spectrum, in particular visible light and infrared radiation, contribute to skin damage in general and photoaging of human skin in particular. As a consequence, attempts have been made to develop skin care/sunscreen products that not only protect against UVB or UVA radiation but provide photoprotection against visible light and infrared radiation as well. In this article, we will briefly review the current knowledge about the mechanisms responsible for visible light/infrared radiation‐induced skin damage and then, based on this information, discuss strategies that have been successfully used or may be employed in the future to achieve photoprotection of human skin beyond ultraviolet radiation. In this regard we will particularly focus on the use of topical antioxidants and the challenges that result from the task of showing their efficacy.
Nonlinear Modes and Symmetries in Linearly Coupled Pairs of ‐Invariant Dimers
Authors: Li K. , Kevrekidis P. G. , Malomed B. A.
Published: January 2014

The subjects of the work are pairs of linearly coupled ‐symmetric dimers. Two different settings are introduced, namely, straight‐coupled dimers, where each gain site is linearly coupled to one gain and one loss site, and cross‐coupled dimers, with each gain site coupled to two lossy ones. The latter pair with equal coupling coefficients represents a ‐hypersymmetric quadrimer. We find symmetric and antisymmetric solutions in these systems, chiefly in an analytical form, and explore the existence, stability, and dynamical behavior of such solutions by means of numerical methods. We thus identify bifurcations occurring in the systems, including spontaneous symmetry breaking and saddle‐center bifurcations. Simulations demonstrate that evolution of unstable branches typically leads to blowup. However, in some cases, unstable modes rearrange into stable ones.
‘Like the Stem Connecting the Cherry to the Tree’: The Uncomfortable Place of Intermediaries in a Local Organic Food Chain
Authors: Rogers Juliette , Fraszczak Magalie
Published: January 2014

Producers' platforms are wholesale sales outlets for ‘local’ foods developed in the French organic sector to reclaim the success of mainstream organic distribution for its founders. This article examines four platforms in southeastern France (akin to ‘food hubs’ in North America) to understand the sociological stakes for the establishment of a local organic intermediary sales structure. The two‐year study used semi‐directive interviews and participant‐observation of platform and institutional actors, who widely consider platforms to be ‘short food supply chains’ (circuits courts). The question of direct interaction between farmers and buyers was touchy for platform participants, manifesting itself in a discomfort with ‘intermediaries’ and in a debate over who should assure deliveries. By evoking the ‘short chain’ label platforms assimilate themselves with direct sales, distinguishing themselves as the ‘real’ organic, as opposed to newcomers profiting from the organic ‘trend’. In the process, actors frame and adapt to organic sector evolutions in a way that is consistent with their awkward position as activists making a living off their cause.
The karrikin response system of Arabidopsis
Authors: Waters Mark T. , Scaffidi Adrian , Sun Yueming K. , Flematti Gavin R. , Smith Steven M.
Published: January 2014

Arabidopsis thaliana provides a powerful means to investigate the mode of action of karrikins, compounds produced during wildfires that stimulate germination of seeds of fire‐following taxa. These studies have revealed close parallels between karrikin signalling and strigolactone signalling. The two perception systems employ similar mechanisms involving closely related α/β‐fold hydrolases (KAI2 and AtD14) and a common F–box protein (MAX2). However, karrikins and strigolactones may be distinguished from each other and elicit different responses. The karrikin response requires a newly discovered protein (SMAX1), a homologue of rice protein D53 that is required for the strigolactone response. Mutants defective in the response to karrikins have seeds with increased dormancy, altered seedling photomorphogenesis and modified leaf shape. As the karrikin and strigolactone response mechanisms are so similar, it is speculated that the endogenous signalling compound for the KAI2 system may be a specific strigolactone. However, new results show that the proposed endogenous signalling compound is not produced by the known strigolactone biosynthesis pathway via carlactone. Structural studies of KAI2 protein and its interaction with karrikins and strigolactone analogues provide some insight into possible protein–ligand interactions, but are hampered by lack of knowledge of the endogenous ligand. The KAI2 system appears to be present throughout angiosperms, implying a fundamentally important function in plant biology.
Comparison of the effects of topical and systemic atropine sulfate on intraocular pressure and pupil diameter in the normal canine eye
Authors: Kovalcuka Liga , Birgele Edite , Bandere Dace , Williams David L.
Published: January 2014

Objective

To compare the effects of topical 1% atropine sulfate and systemic 0.1% atropine sulfate on the intraocular pressure (IOP) and horizontal pupil diameter (HPD) in the canine eye.

Procedures

Four groups, each containing 10 dogs of varying age, breed, and sex were treated as follows: (i) One 30 μL drop of topical 1% atropine sulfate was applied unilaterally in each dog, (ii) A control group, one drop of 0.9% saline was used, (iii) 0.06 mg/kg atropine sulfate was given by intramuscular injection, and (iv) Control with saline injected intramuscularly. In all groups, IOP and HPD were measured every 5 min over 60 min.

Results

Topical atropine significantly increased IOP in the treated eye with no change in the untreated eye. A maximum increase in IOP from 17.7 ± 3.1 to 20.3 ± 3.1 mmHg (14.7% increase) was obtained 23.0 ± 14.3 min post‐treatment. Maximal HPD of 12.1 ± 1.7 mm in the treated eye occurred 46.5 ± 6.3 min after treatment, with no increase in the untreated eye. Systemic atropine caused an increase in IOP in both eyes, showing a maximum at 15.5 ± 10.6 min post‐treatment with an IOP of 17.3 ± 4.6 mmHg in the right eye and 17.1 ± 5.2 mmHg in the left eye (21.8% increase in the right eye and 21.6% in the left eye). Maximal HPD was noted in both eyes 30.0 ± 11.6 min after treatment.

Conclusions

Atropine sulfate causes a significant increase in IOP when given both topically and by intramuscular injection. It should be used with caution, or indeed avoided entirely, in dogs with glaucoma or in those with a predisposition to the condition.
Network-based Management on Repairing Tool Kits of Civil Aviation Engineering Maintenance
Authors: Tian Xiaoxu , Zheng Xinlei , Wang Ting , Li Na , Wang Haifeng , Huang Fuqing
Published: January 2014

Based on features of high speed of network transmission and easy operations, this thesis covers two aspects to realize network-based management on repairing tool kits of civil aviation engineering maintenance. Firstly, develop a network inquiry system, which can help employees and administrators inquire tool borrowing information. Secondly, a module is designed that has functions to transmit text messages to tool kits borrowers prompting them to return tools at times when the returning date approaches.
Stochastic Arithmetic as a Tool to Study the Stability of Biological Models
Authors: Alt Rene , Lamotte Jean-Luc
Published: January 2014

The theoretical study of the stability of the numerical solution of a differential system may be complicated or even not feasible when the system is large and nonlinear. Here it is shown that such a study can be experimentally done by using stochastic arithmetic and its discrete approach known as the CESTAC method. The CESTAC method has been first proposed since more than forty years by M. La Porte and J. Vignes as an experimental statistical method to estimate the accuracy on the result of numerical program. Later an abstract formalization of the theory called Stochastic Arithmetic has been developed and many of its algebraic properties have been studied. Here a brief presentation of stochastic arithmetic, of its main properties and of the different software existing for its implementation are given. Then it is demonstrated that the use of stochastic arithmetic in the solver of a differential system can easily reveal whether the computed solution is stable or not. Moreover the stability can be studied with respect to the coefficients of the system or with respect to the initial conditions. At the end it is also pointed out that the same method can be used to detect instabilities due to the used solver. Some examples taken from the biological literature are given.
On the determination of reference levels for quality assurance of flattening filter free photon beams in radiation therapy
Authors: Clivio Alessandro , Belosi Maria Francesca , Cozzi Luca , Nicolini Giorgia , Vanetti Eugenio , Bolard Grégory , Fenoglietto Pascal , Krauss Harald , Fogliata Antonella
Published: January 2014

Purpose:

New definitions for some dosimetric parameters for use in quality assurance of flattening filter free (FFF) beams generated by medical linear accelerators have been suggested. The present study aims to validate these suggestions and to propose possible reference levels.

Methods:

The main characteristics of FFF photon beams were described in terms of: field size, penumbra, unflatness, slope, and peak‐position parameters. Data were collected for 6 and 10 MV‐FFF beams from three different Varian TrueBeam Linacs. Measurements were performed with a 2D‐array (Starcheck system from PTW‐Freiburg) and with the portal dosimetry method GLAaS utilizing the build‐in portal imager of TrueBeam. Data were also compared to ion chamber measurements. A cross check validation has been performed on a FFF beam of 6 MV generated by a Varian Clinac‐iX upgraded to FFF capability.

Results

: All the parameters suggested to characterize the FFF beams resulted easily measurable and little variation was observed among different Linacs. Referring to two reference field sizes of 10 × 10 and 20 × 20 cm2, at SDD = 100 cm and d = dmax, from the portal dosimetry data, the following results (averaging X and Y profiles) were obtained. Field size: 9.95 ± 0.02 and 19.98 ± 0.03 cm for 6 MV‐FFF (9.94 ± 0.02 and 19.98 ± 0.03 cm for 10 MV‐FFF). Penumbra: 2.7 ± 0.3 and 2.9 ± 0.3 mm for 6 MV‐FFF (3.1 ± 0.2 and 3.3 ± 0.3 for 10 MV‐FFF). Unflatness: 1.11 ± 0.01 and 1.25 ± 0.01 for 6 MV‐FFF (1.21 ± 0.01 and 1.50 ± 0.01 for 10 MV‐FFF). Slope: 0.320 ± 0.020%/mm and 0.43 ± 0.015%/mm for 6 MV‐FFF (0.657 ± 0.023%/mm and 0.795 ± 0.017%/mm for 10 MV‐FFF). Peak Position −0.2 ± 0.2 and −0.4 ± 0.2 mm for 6 MV‐FFF (−0.3 ± 0.2 and 0.7 ± 0.3 mm for 10 MV‐FFF). Results would depend upon measurement depth. With thresholds set to at least 95% confidence level from the measured data and to account for possible variations between detectors and methods and experimental settings, a tolerance set of: 1 mm for field size and penumbra, 0.04 for unflatness, 0.1%/mm for slope, and 1 mm for peak position could be proposed from our data.

Conclusions

: The parameters proposed for the characterization and routine control of stability of profiles of FFF beams appear to be a viable solution with a strong similarity to the conventional parameters used for flattened beams. The results from three different TrueBeams and the cross‐validation against a Clinac‐iX suggested the possible generalization of the methods and the possibility to use common tolerances for the parameters. The data showed also the reproducibility of beam characteristics among different systems (of the same vendor) and the resulting parameter values could therefore be possibly generalized.
Atomic-Scale Variability and Control of III-V Nanowire Growth Kinetics
Authors: Chou Y.-C. , Hillerich K. , Tersoff J. , Reuter M. C. , Dick K. A. , Ross F. M.
Published: January 2014

Regular Nanowires

For a range of nanotechnology applications, semiconductor nanowires will need to be grown with high precision and control.

Chou
et al.

(p.
281
) studied the growth of gallium phosphide (GaP) nanowires using chemical vapor deposition within a transmission electron microscope and worked out conditions that could generate regular and predictable wire growth.
Changes in rRNA Transcription Influence Proliferation and Cell Fate Within a Stem Cell Lineage
Authors: Zhang Qiao , Shalaby Nevine A. , Buszczak Michael
Published: January 2014

Germline Pol I

RNA polymerase I (Pol I)–directed ribosomal RNA (rRNA) transcription has been extensively studied in mammalian cell lines and yeast. However, the functional significance of cell-specific regulation of Pol I transcription within developmental contexts in vivo remains unclear.

Zhang
et al.

(p.
298
) characterized a
Drosophila
Pol I regulatory complex and found that germline stem cells (GSCs) of the ovary exhibited increased levels of rRNA transcription relative to their immediate daughter cells. High levels of rRNA expression promoted GSC proliferation, with attenuation of Pol I activity showing effects during early germ cell differentiation.
Many Paths to the Origin of Life
Authors: Gollihar Jimmy , Levy Matthew , Ellington Andrew D.
Published: January 2014

A plethora of prebiotic chemistries are fueling research on the pathway to the first self-replicating system.
Ribose—An Internal Threat to DNA
Authors: Caldecott Keith W.
Published: January 2014

The removal of RNA inadvertently incorporated into our DNA is critical for maintaining genome integrity.
How Thalidomide Works Against Cancer
Authors: Stewart A. Keith
Published: January 2014

The surprising ability of thalidomide and its analogs to treat various hematologic malignancies is through the loss of two transcription factors.

[Also see Reports by

Krönke
et al.

and

Lu
et al.

]
Final 2014 Budget Helps Science Agencies Rebound
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: January 2014

U.S. science agencies see spending rebound in 2014 spending bill.
Parasitic Puppeteers Begin to Yield Their Secrets
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: January 2014

Researchers are not only discovering more examples of parasites manipulating the behavior of their hosts, but they are also learning how these parasites do their dirty work.
Identification of a Plant Receptor for Extracellular ATP
Authors: Choi Jeongmin , Tanaka Kiwamu , Cao Yangrong , Qi Yue , Qiu Jing , Liang Yan , Lee Sang Yeol , Stacey Gary
Published: January 2014

ATP Receptor in
Arabidopsis

As well as its role as an intracellular energy source, extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) has diverse functions as a signaling molecule. ATP receptors have been identified in animal cells, but searches based on structural homology have not identified ATP receptors in plants.

Choi
et al.

(p.
290
) have now identified an ATP receptor in the model plant
Arabidopsis thaliana
by tracking down the cause of mutations that leave mutant plants unresponsive to ATP signals. The receptor identified carries an intracellular kinase domain and an extracellular lectin domain.
LIFE SCIENCE TECHNOLOGIES: Brave New RNA World
Authors: Dove Alan
Published: January 2014

The discovery of RNAi revealed an entire layer of previously unknown gene regulation; new tools are helping more scientists analyze and manipulate this system to probe the secret lives of cells.
Specific Humoral Immune Response Induced by Propionibacterium acnes Can Prevent Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae Infection in Mice
Authors: Yang Feng , Ma Qiuyue , Lei Liancheng , Huang Jing , Ji Qun , Zhai Ruidong , Wang Lei , Wang Yu , Li Linxi , Sun Changjiang , Feng Xin , Han Wenyu
Published: January 2014

Porcine contagious pleuropneumonia, caused byActinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, has a major impact on economics, ecology, and animal welfare in the pig-rearing industry.Propionibacterium acnes, a facultative anaerobic Gram-positive corynebacterium, exists widely in normal healthy adult animals. We have shown previously thatP. acnescan preventA. pleuropneumoniaeinfections in mice and pigs. To elucidate the mechanism of this effect and to identify novelA. pleuropneumoniaevaccines, the role of anti-P. acnesantibodies in preventing infection was analyzed by indirect immunofluorescence and opsonophagocytosis assaysin vitro. The role of the specific humoral immune response induced byP. acneswas confirmed in a B cell depletion mouse model. The survival rates of mice challenged withA. pleuropneumoniaeexhibited a highly significant positive rank correlation with the levels of anti-P. acnesantibodies. The specific antibodies induced byP. acneshad the ability to combine withA. pleuropneumoniaeand increase opsonization ofA. pleuropneumoniaefor phagocytosis. Furthermore, analysis in the murine B cell depletion model confirmed that the humoral immune response induced byP. acnesplayed an important role in resistance toA. pleuropneumoniaeinfection. In this study, we further elucidated the reasons thatP. acnescan preventA. pleuropneumoniaeinfection, which provides useful evidence for the development of heterologous vaccines for the control of porcine contagious pleuropneumonia.
Influence of Acanthamoeba Genotype on Clinical Course and Outcomes for Patients with Acanthamoeba Keratitis in Spain
Authors: Arnalich-Montiel Francisco , Lumbreras-Fernández Blanca , Martín-Navarro Carmen M. , Valladares Basilio , Lopez-Velez Rogelio , Morcillo-Laiz Rafael , Lorenzo-Morales Jacob
Published: January 2014

Genotype T4 is by far the most frequent genotype of
Acanthamoeba
keratitis
(AK) and therefore has been considered the most virulent. This study included 14 cases of AK of genotype T4 and three cases of non-T4 genotype. We found that cases of non-T4 genotype had a worse response to medical therapy, greater need for surgical intervention, greater risk of extracorneal involvement, and remarkably poorer final visual outcome than those of T4 genotype, suggesting an association between
Acanthamoeba
virulence and genotype that requires additional case investigation.
Comparison of the BD MAX Enteric Bacterial Panel to Routine Culture Methods for Detection of Campylobacter, Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (O157), Salmonella, and Shigella Isolates in Preserved Stool Specimens
Authors: Anderson Neil W. , Buchan Blake W. , Ledeboer Nathan A.
Published: January 2014

We compared the BD MAX enteric bacterial panel (EBP) to culture for the detection ofSalmonella,Shigella,Campylobacter, and Shiga toxin-producing enterohemorrhagicEscherichia coli(EHEC) O157 in seeded stool samples. The EBP panel demonstrated superior sensitivity and reliably detectedSalmonella, EHEC O157,Shigella, andCampylobacterat concentrations 1- to 2-log10lower than those needed for culture detection.
Rapid Identification of Bacteria and Candida Pathogens in Peritoneal Dialysis Effluent from Patients with Peritoneal Dialysis-Related Peritonitis by Use of Multilocus PCR Coupled with Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Chang Yu-Tzu , Wang Hsuan-Chen , Wang Ming-Cheng , Wu An-Bang , Sung Junne-Ming , Sun H. Sunny , Su Ih-Jen , Kan Wei-Chih , Chien Chih-Chiang , Hwang Jyh-Chang , Wang Hsien-Yi , Tseng Chin-Chung , Wu Chi-Jung
Published: January 2014

PCR coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (PCR/ESI-MS) was compared with culture for pathogen detection in peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related peritonitis. Of 21 samples of PD effluent, PCR/ESI-MS identified microorganisms in 18 (86%) samples, including
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
in 1 culture-negative sample. Of 15 double-positive samples, PCR/ESI-MS and culture reached levels of agreement of 100% (15/15) and 87.5% (7/8) at the genus and species levels, respectively. PCR/ESI-MS can be used for rapid pathogen detection in PD-related peritonitis.
Nod-Like Receptor X-1 Is Required for Rhinovirus-Induced Barrier Dysfunction in Airway Epithelial Cells
Authors: Unger Benjamin L. , Ganesan Shyamala , Comstock Adam T. , Faris Andrea N. , Hershenson Marc B. , Sajjan Uma S.
Published: January 2014

Barrier dysfunction of airway epithelium may increase the risk for acquiring secondary infections or allergen sensitization. Both rhinovirus (RV) and polyinosinic-polycytidilic acid [poly(I·C)], a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) mimetic, cause airway epithelial barrier dysfunction, which is reactive oxygen species (ROS) dependent, implying that dsRNA generated during RV replication is sufficient for disrupting barrier function. We also demonstrated that RV or poly(I·C)-stimulated NADPH oxidase 1 (NOX-1) partially accounts for RV-induced ROS generation. In this study, we identified a dsRNA receptor(s) contributing to RV-induced maximal ROS generation and thus barrier disruption. We demonstrate that genetic silencing of the newly discovered dsRNA receptor Nod-like receptor X-1 (NLRX-1), but not other previously described dsRNA receptors, abrogated RV-induced ROS generation and reduction of transepithelial resistance (

R
T

) in polarized airway epithelial cells. In addition, both RV and poly(I·C) stimulated mitochondrial ROS, the generation of which was dependent on NLRX-1. Treatment with Mito-Tempo, an antioxidant targeted to mitochondria, abolished RV-induced mitochondrial ROS generation, reduction in

R
T

, and bacterial transmigration. Furthermore, RV infection increased NLRX-1 localization to the mitochondria. Additionally, NLRX-1 interacts with RV RNA and poly(I·C) in polarized airway epithelial cells. Finally, we show that NLRX-1 is also required for RV-stimulated NOX-1 expression. These findings suggest a novel mechanism by which RV stimulates generation of ROS, which is required for disruption of airway epithelial barrier function.

IMPORTANCE
Rhinovirus (RV), a virus responsible for a majority of common colds, disrupts the barrier function of the airway epithelium by increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS). Poly(I·C), a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) mimetic, also causes ROS-dependent barrier disruption, implying that the dsRNA intermediate generated during RV replication is sufficient for this process. Here, we demonstrate that both RV RNA and poly(I·C) interact with NLRX-1 (a newly discovered dsRNA receptor) and stimulate mitochondrial ROS. We show for the first time that NLRX-1 is primarily expressed in the cytoplasm and at the apical surface rather than in the mitochondria and that NLRX-1 translocates to mitochondria following RV infection. Together, our results suggest a novel mechanism for RV-induced barrier disruption involving NLRX-1 and mitochondrial ROS. Although ROS is necessary for optimal viral clearance, if not neutralized efficiently, it may increase susceptibility to secondary infections and alter innate immune responses to subsequently inhaled pathogens, allergens, and other environmental factors.
Common Mechanism for RNA Encapsidation by Negative-Strand RNA Viruses
Authors: Green Todd J. , Cox Robert , Tsao Jun , Rowse Michael , Qiu Shihong , Luo Ming
Published: January 2014

The nucleocapsid of a negative-strand RNA virus is assembled with a single nucleocapsid protein and the viral genomic RNA. The nucleocapsid protein polymerizes along the length of the single-strand genomic RNA (viral RNA) or its cRNA. This process of encapsidation occurs concomitantly with genomic replication. Structural comparisons of several nucleocapsid-like particles show that the mechanism of RNA encapsidation in negative-strand RNA viruses has many common features. Fundamentally, there is a unifying mechanism to keep the capsid protein protomer monomeric prior to encapsidation of viral RNA. In the nucleocapsid, there is a cavity between two globular domains of the nucleocapsid protein where the viral RNA is sequestered. The viral RNA must be transiently released from the nucleocapsid in order to reveal the template RNA sequence for transcription/replication. There are cross-molecular interactions among the protein subunits linearly along the nucleocapsid to stabilize its structure. Empty capsids can form in the absence of RNA. The common characteristics of RNA encapsidation not only delineate the evolutionary relationship of negative-strand RNA viruses but also provide insights into their mechanism of replication.

IMPORTANCE
What separates negative-strand RNA viruses (NSVs) from the rest of the virosphere is that the nucleocapsid of NSVs serves as the template for viral RNA synthesis. Their viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase can induce local conformational changes in the nucleocapsid to temporarily release the RNA genome so that the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase can use it as the template for RNA synthesis during both transcription and replication. After RNA synthesis at the local region is completed, the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase processes downstream, and the RNA genome is restored in the nucleocapsid. We found that the nucleocapsid assembly of all NSVs shares three essential elements: a monomeric capsid protein protomer, parallel orientation of subunits in the linear nucleocapsid, and a (5H + 3H) motif that forms a proper cavity for sequestration of the RNA. This observation also suggests that all NSVs evolved from a common ancestor that has this unique nucleocapsid.
Acting on macrocephaly in the neonatal period: an illustrative case of congenital teratoma
Authors: Thust Stefanie Catherine , Nandi Debjani , Hann Gayle
Published: January 2014

An 11-week-old baby was brought to the paediatric emergency department by his mother with a 2-day history of inconsolable crying. On examination, clinical features of macrocephaly, separated sutures and ‘sunsetting’ of the eyes were noted. Abnormal head circumference measurements had been obtained on several occasions since birth, but were not acted on contrary to local guidance. During the emergency admission, an urgent CT scan revealed a large posterior fossa tumour consistent with a teratoma causing severe obstructive hydrocephalus. Following referral to a neurosurgical centre, emergency ventricular drainage and debulking surgery were performed, unfortunately with no option for cure. Distress to mother and baby could have been reduced with a more timely diagnosis.