bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of a His‐rich arabinogalactan‐protein for micronutrient biofortification of cereal grain
Authors: Aizat Wan M. , Preuss James M. , Johnson Alexander A.T. , Tester Mark A. , Schultz Carolyn J.
Published: June 2011

The micronutrient content of most cereal grains is low and responsible for malnutrition deficiencies in millions of people who rely on grains as their primary food source. Any strategy that can increase the micronutrient content of grain will have significant benefits to world health. We identified a gene from barley encoding a cell wall protein with multiple histidine (His)‐rich motifs interspersed with short arabinogalactan‐protein (AGP) domains and have called it Hordeum vulgare His‐rich AGP (HvHRA1). Sequence analysis shows that His‐rich AGPs are rare in plants and that the number of His‐rich and AGP domains differ between cereals and dicots. The barley and wheat encoded proteins have more than 13 His‐rich domains, whereas the putative rice orthologue has only 5 His‐rich regions. His‐rich motifs are well‐established metal‐binding motifs; therefore, we developed transgenic (Tx) rice plants that constitutively overexpress barley HvHRA1. There was no significant effect on plant growth or grain yield in Tx plants. Purification of AGPs from wild‐type and Tx plants showed that only Tx plants contained detectable levels of a His‐rich AGP. Calcein assay shows that the AGP fraction from Tx plants had increased binding affinity for Cu2+. Micronutrient analysis of brown and white rice showed that the grain nutrient yield for Fe, Zn and Cu was higher in two Tx lines compared to their respective nulls, although the differences were not statistically significant. This approach highlights the potential of the plant apoplast (cell wall) for storage of key nutrients through overexpression of genes for metal‐binding proteins.
Evolution of the YABBY gene family with emphasis on the basal eudicot Eschscholzia californica (Papaveraceae)
Authors: Bartholmes C. , Hidalgo O. , Gleissberg S.
Published: June 2011

YABBY genes are seed plant‐specific transcriptional regulators that are involved in diverse aspects of leaf, shoot and flower development. A series of duplications gave rise to five gene groups found throughout flowering plants. In Arabidopsis and other species, expression of two gene groups, CRABS CLAW and INNER NO OUTER, is restricted to floral organs. In contrast, members of the FILAMENTOUS FLOWER, YABBY2 and YABBY5 gene groups are also expressed in leaves and have been termed ‘vegetative YABBYs’. How the five paralogue groups evolved and how their expression and function diversified have remained largely unresolved, precluding a reconstruction of the natural history of this gene family. Here, we report new genes from Eschscholzia californica (Ranunculales, Papaveraceae) that we use together with currently available database sequences in a comprehensive phylogenetic re‐evaluation of the YABBY gene family. Multilayered Bayesian analysis covering seed plants allowed us to locate Eschscholzia YABBY sequences within the gene family phylogeny. We established that vegetative YABBYs do not form a monophyletic clade, and that CRABS CLAW and FILAMENTOUS FLOWER arose from a common ancestor gene. INNER NO OUTER genes are sister to that ancestral gene. We identified several conserved motifs outside of known amino acid domains that define all five angiosperm YABBY gene clades. Further, we inferred the evolution of gene expression and provide evidence for release of purifying constraint in certain branches of the gene family tree. Finally, we report expression patterns for five Eschscholzia YABBY genes consistent with functional conservation between early‐diverged and core eudicots.
Polymorphisms in genes of the somatotrophic axis are independently associated with milk production, udder health, survival and animal size in Holstein‐Friesian dairy cattle
Authors: Waters S.M. , Berry D.P. , Mullen M.P.
Published: June 2011

The somatotrophic axis consisting of pituitary‐derived growth hormone and circulating insulin‐like growth factor 1 has been well established as key regulators of animal health, metabolism, lactation, fertility, body composition and growth rate. The aim of this study was to simultaneously quantify the associations between SNPs in candidate genes of the somatotrophic axis (i.e., IGF‐1, GH1 and GHR) with performance traits in Holstein‐Friesian (HF) dairy cattle. Both novel SNPs identified previously by this group alongside other published SNPs within these genes were analysed for associations with performance in dairy cattle. Multiple regression analyses regressing genetic merit of up to 848 HF sires on novel SNPs (n = 76) and published SNPs (n = 33) were undertaken using weighted animal mixed linear models. Twenty‐three SNPs were significantly associated with at least one of 18 traits analysed and involved in milk production, udder health, fertility and growth. Eight traits including milk fat composition, carcass conformation, stature, chest width, body depth, rump width, carcass and cull cow weight were independently associated with SNPs in two genes. Furthermore, for several traits including milk fat yield, somatic cell count, survival and carcass fat, SNPs in all three genes were independently associated with performance. Milk fat yield and carcass fat showed the highest number of independent associations across all three genes with five SNPs associated with both traits. The cumulative effects of the favourable alleles of all five SNPs across GH1, GHR and IGF‐1 result in an increase of 5.9 kg and 28.6 units of milk fat and carcass fat, respectively. Cow survival was associated with a single SNP in each of the three genes with a cumulative allele effect of 1.5%. Independent effects of polymorphisms in GH1, GHR and IGF‐1 reinforce the central role of the somatotrophic axis on animal development and performance.
Influence of diet on calcium metabolism, tissue calcification and urinary sludge in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)*
Authors: Clauss M. , Burger B. , Liesegang A. , Del Chicca F. , Kaufmann‐Bart M. , Riond B. , Hässig M. , Hatt J.‐M.
Published: June 2011

Rabbits absorb more calcium (Ca) from their diet than they require, and excrete surplus via urine, which therefore contains a typical ‘sludge’. This makes rabbits susceptible to Ca‐containing uroliths. But given the Ca content of diets of free‐ranging specimens, and the limited reports of urinary sludge and Ca contents in free‐ranging lagomorphs, we can suspect that rabbits are naturally adapted to high urinary Ca loads. We fed four groups of New Zealand hybrid rabbits [n = 28, age at start 5–6 weeks) pelleted diets consisting of lucerne hay only (L, Ca 2.32% dry matter (DM)], lucerne:oats 1:1 (LG, Ca 1.36%), grass hay only (G, Ca 1.04%), or grass:oats 1:1 (GG, 0.83%) for 25 weeks, with water available ad libitum. Diets were not supplemented with Ca, phosphorus, or vitamin D. Rabbits on diets LG and GG had lower food and water intakes, lower faeces and urine output, grew faster and had higher body mass at slaughter (mainly attributable to adipose tissue). Apparent Ca digestibility decreased in the order L–LG–G/GG. Rabbits on L had larger and heavier kidneys, more urinary sediment at sonography, and a higher urinary Ca content than the other groups. No animal showed signs of urolithiasis/calcinosis at X‐ray, sonography, or gross pathology. Kidney/aorta histology only sporadically indicated Ca deposits, with no systematic difference between groups. Under the conditions of the experiment, dietary Ca loads in legume hay do not appear problematic for rabbits, and other factors, such as water supply and level of activity may be important contributors to urolithiasis development in veterinary patients. However, due to the lower Ca content of grass hay, the significantly lower degree of urinary sludge formation, and the significantly higher water intake related with grass hay feeding, grass hay‐dominated diets are to be recommended for rabbits in which urolithiasis prevention is an issue.
Genetic variability of root peel thickness and its influence in extractable starch from cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) roots
Authors: Pérez Juan C. , Lenis Jorge I. , Calle Fernando , Morante Nelson , Sánchez Teresa , Debouck Daniel , Ceballos Hernan
Published: June 2011

With 4 figures and 5 tables

Cassava roots are the most important commercial product from this crop. Roots have two major components: the starchy parenchyma and the peel with higher amount of fibre and cyanogenic glucosides. In this study, a sample of 64 clones grown in replicated trials in five locations were evaluated for peel thickness (PT) that ranged from 1.48 to 2.55 mm. Roots from a sample of 33 of these clones were further analysed for the amount of extractable starch. Broad sense heritability for PT was high (0.93) compared with that for yield (0.63). The values obtained demonstrate that there is a very strong genetic component in the expression of PT. Extractable starch depended heavily on dry matter content but also on PT. In an additional evaluation, 1448 accessions from the germplasm collection were evaluated for PT and showed a wide range of variation (from 0.79 to 5.14 mm).
Evaluation of Reproductive Tract Infection During Early Post‐Partum Period and Its Relationship with Subsequent Reproductive Performance in High Milk Producing Dairy Cows
Authors: Senosy W , Uchiza M , Tameoka N , Izaike Y , Osawa T
Published: June 2011

Contents

Clinically normal Holstein‐Friesian cows (n = 43) were used to establish a relationship between the evaluations of the uterine condition by vaginoscopy, Metricheck, endometrial cytology (EC) and ultrasonography (US) during post‐partum period (pp), and subsequent reproductive performance. The uterine status of the selected cows was evaluated by EC, Metricheck, US and vaginoscopy on a weekly basis from the third week (W3) to the seventh week (W7) pp. The animals were bred after a voluntary waiting period of 45–60 days pp and diagnosed for pregnancy status at 45 days after breeding by US. First service conception rate (FSCR) of bred animals was 32.6% (14/43). There was no significant difference in polymorphonuclear leucocyte percentage between conceived and non‐conceived cows during different weeks post‐partum. First service conception rate in animals with normal vaginal discharge as detected by Metricheck was significantly low when compared to those of abnormal discharge during W3 (2.3% vs 30.3%; p < 0.001) and W4 (4.7% vs 29.7%; p < 0.01) post‐partum. Using US, the number of pregnant cows having fluid in uterus (FIU) during W6 (p < 0.01) and W7 (p < 0.001) post‐partum was significantly lower (2/34, 4.7% and 1/43, 2.3%, respectively) than those that had no FIU (12/43, 27.9% and 13/43, 30.3%, respectively). Using vaginoscopy, FSCR in animals having abnormal discharge was significantly (p < 0.01) low when compared to that of normal discharge (2.4% vs 30.2%) during W5 and W6 post‐partum. In conclusion, Metricheck during W3 and W4 and detection of FIU by US and vaginoscopy during W6 and W7 pp can be used as good predictive tools to anticipate the future reproductive performance of dairy cattle.
Case of polycythemia vera with unusual organizing pneumonia mimicking the clinical features of military tuberculosis and possibly caused by the involvement of neoplastic megakaryocytes
Authors: Kimura Yoshizo , Imamura Yutaka , Higaki Koichi , Ohno Yuju , Hashiguchi Namiko , Seki Rituko , Okamura Takashi , Arakawa Fumiko , Kiyasu Junichi , Takeuchi Masanori , Miyoshi Hiroaki , Yoshida Maki , Nakamura Yukihiko , Niino Daisuke , Sugita Yasuo , Ohshima Koichi
Published: June 2011

Polycythemia vera (PV) is a clonal myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) of hematopoietic stem cells. Although the management of MPN patients generally focuses on the prevention of thromboembolic events caused by hypercoagulability, it is true that the patients with hematological malignancy often suffer from pulmonary diseases with atypical radiological patterns. We present here a 56‐year‐old woman with PV harboring a JAK2V617F mutation that had a diffuse reticulonodular pattern on chest radiography and was initially suspected of having military tuberculosis. Pathological assessment of a video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery lung biopsy revealed that the lesions were in fact organizing pneumonia (OP). Interestingly, pulmonary extramedullary hematopoiesis with a diffuse plugging of the alveolar blood capillaries by numerous atypical megakaryocytes was also observed around the granulation components. The histological findings of our case of unusual OP suggest that local activated neoplastic megakaryocytes and platelets played an important role in the development of spreading fibrotic lesions. JAK2 mutation or the preleukemic phase of MPN may accelerate the activation of megakaryocytes and result in the proliferative process of fibrosis.
Papillary adenoma of the lung with a peculiar raw macroscopic feature
Authors: Nakano Takayuki , Yokose Tomoyuki , Hasegawa Chikako , Kameda Yoichi , Kato Yasufumi , Ito Hiroyuki , Tsuboi Masahiro , Nakayama Haruhiko , Yamada Kozo , Noda Kazumasa , Iwazaki Masayuki
Published: June 2011

We report a case of papillary adenoma of the lung with a peculiar raw macroscopic feature at intraoperative consultation. A 52‐year‐old man was admitted to our hospital for the evaluation of a solitary peripheral nodule in the left lower lobe which was detected with chest CT. When we took staples off from the stump of the partially resected lung in order to make a frozen section diagnosis, granular fragments leaked out from the stump. On the cut surface, the dark reddish and granular tumor grew expansively; however, hemorrhage and necrosis were absent. Histologically, granular fragments were mainly composed of papillary structures, which consisted of a single layer of cuboidal to low columnar cells with round to oval nuclei lining the surface of the fibrovascular cores. Characteristically, papillary structures lacked elastic fibers in the stroma and were packed within an elastic fiber framework derived from pre‐existing alveolar structures. We considered that high intratumoral pressure might have made the granular fragments leak out of the stump as soon as we removed staples and that peculiar macroscopic findings before fixation may be a diagnostic clue for papillary adenoma.
Cutting edge technologies in respiratory research: Lung function testing
Authors: KING GREGORY G.
Published: June 2011

Pulmonary function testing is part of routine clinical practice in respiratory medicine. It is based around spirometry, which will remain the central measurement of lung function given its prognostic significance and its integral role in defining severity of airways disease. However, there is an increasing body of evidence from studies using new methods of lung function measurement which are providing new insights into pathophysiology of disease. This body of data is forming a basis for their future clinical role, once the economics of producing the relevant devices becomes attractive. The forced oscillation technique and multiple breath nitrogen washout are currently the most commonly used of the newer lung function techniques, which are refinements of long‐established techniques. Optical coherence tomography, optical reflection, electrical impedance and vibration response imaging have arisen by development of novel devices. The recent use of these techniques is reviewed.
Chronic cough and esomeprazole: A double‐blind placebo‐controlled parallel study
Authors: FARUQI SHOAIB , MOLYNEUX IAN D. , FATHI HOSNIEH , WRIGHT CAROLINE , THOMPSON RACHAEL , MORICE ALYN H.
Published: June 2011

Background and objective:  Gastro‐oesophageal reflux has been implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic cough. Guidelines on management suggest a therapeutic trial of anti‐reflux medication. Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor licensed for the long‐term treatment of acid reflux in adults and we compared the effects of esomeprazole and placebo on patients with chronic cough.

Methods:  This was a prospective, single‐centre, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel group study conducted over 8 weeks. Fifty adult non‐smokers with chronic cough and normal spirometry were randomized. Patients completed cough‐related quality‐of‐life and symptom questionnaires and subjective scores of cough frequency and severity at the beginning and end of the study. They also kept a daily diary of symptom scores. Citric acid cough challenge and laryngoscopic examination were performed at baseline and the end of the study. The primary outcome was improvement in cough score.

Results:  There were no differences in cough scores in the placebo and treatment arms of the study although some significant improvements were noted when compared to baseline. In the cough diary scores there was a trend towards greater improvement in the treatment arm in patients with dyspepsia.

Conclusions:  Esomeprazole did not have a clinically important effect greater than placebo in patients with cough. It suggests a marked placebo effect in the treatment of cough.
Increased urethral resistance by periurethral injection of low serum cultured adipose‐derived mesenchymal stromal cells in rats
Authors: Watanabe Tatsuhito , Maruyama Shoichi , Yamamoto Tokunori , Kamo Izumi , Yasuda Kaoru , Saka Yosuke , Ozaki Takenori , Yuzawa Yukio , Matsuo Seiichi , Gotoh Momokazu
Published: June 2011

Objectives:  To evaluate the effects of a periurethral injection of low serum cultured adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stromal cells (LASC) and to develop a new autologous cell therapy for stress urinary incontinence.

Methods:  F344 rats were divided into three groups as based on the periurethral injection of LASC, GAX collagen or vehicle (control). At 2 and 4 weeks after injection, leak point pressure (LPP) was measured before and after transection of the pelvic nerves. For cell tracking, LASC of green fluorescent protein transgenic rats were injected into nude rats.

Results:  At 2 weeks, both the LASC and collagen groups showed significantly higher LPP than the control group. At 4 weeks, the increase in LPP in the LASC group remained, whereas LPP in the collagen group decreased to baseline levels. In the absence of the urethral closure reflex after transection of the pelvic nerves, LPP in the LASC group was significantly higher than that in the other two groups. Histologically, the size of the urethral lumen was smaller in the LASC group than the collagen group. At 4 weeks, most of the LASC were positive for myogenic antigens including α‐smooth muscle actin, desmin and calponin I.

Conclusions:  Periurethral injection of autologous LASC capable of myogenic differentiation made a greater contribution to the increase in urethral resistance than did the conventional collagen bulk injection. Thus, its use for treatment of stress urinary incontinence can be postulated.
Efficacy of selective α1A adrenoceptor antagonist silodosin in the medical expulsive therapy for ureteral stones
Authors: Itoh Yasunori , Okada Atsushi , Yasui Takahiro , Hamamoto Shuzo , Hirose Masahito , Kojima Yoshiyuki , Tozawa Keiichi , Sasaki Shoichi , Kohri Kenjiro
Published: June 2011

Recently, we reported that α1A adrenoceptor (AR) is the main participant in phenylephrine‐induced human ureteral contraction. We therefore decided to carry out a prospective randomized study to evaluate the effects of silodosin, a selective α1A AR antagonist, as a medical expulsive therapy for ureteral stones. A total of 187 male patients, who were referred to our department for the management of symptomatic unilateral ureteral calculi of less than 10 mm, were randomly divided into two groups: group A (92 patients), who were instructed to drink 2 L of water daily, and group B (95 patients), who received the same instruction and were also given silodosin (8 mg/daily) for a maximum of 8 weeks. Expulsion rate, mean expulsion time and need for analgesics were examined. Overall, the mean expulsion time was 15.19 ± 7.14 days for group A and 10.27 ± 8.35 days for group B (P = 0.0058). In cases involving distal ureteral stones, the mean expulsion time was 13.40 ± 5.90 and 9.29 ± 5.91 days, respectively (P = 0.012). For stones of 1–5 mm in diameter, the mean expulsion time was 14.28 ± 6.35 and 9.56 ± 8.45 days, respectively (P = 0.017). For stones of 6–9 mm in diameter, the stone expulsion rate was 30.4% and 52.2% (P = 0.036), and the mean expulsion time was 21.00 ± 9.9 and 11.33 ± 8.31 days, respectively (P = 0.038). Herein, we report the first on silodosin in the management of ureteral lithiasis. Our findings suggest that silodosin might have potential as a medical expulsive therapy for ureteral stones.
Phakic anterior chamber lenses in very high myopia: an 18‐month follow up
Authors: Akcay Levent , Eser Ilker , Kaplan Aysin T , Taskiran‐Comez Arzu , Dogan Omer K
Published: June 2011

Abstract

Background:  To evaluate the efficacy and tolerance of two different foldable anterior chamber phakic intraocular lenses for high myopia.

Design:  A prospective interventional case series at the Eye Clinic, Kartal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.

Participants:  Sixty‐two eyes of 31 patients received iris‐claw lens (group 1) (Artiflex AC 401, Ophtec), and 43 eyes of 22 patients received angle‐supported lens (group 2) (I‐Care, Corneal).

Methods:  The mean preoperative spherical equivalents for group 1 and group 2 were −12.13 D and −18.95 D, respectively. Endothelial cell density was measured at day 1 and at 1, 3, 6, 12 and 18 months for follow ups.

Main Outcome Measures:  Percentage change in endothelial cell density and improvement in visual acuity.

Results:  At the 18‐months follow up, uncorrected visual acuity improved to logMAR 0.37 ±  0.23 from 1.60 ± 0.10 in group 1, and logMAR 0.47 ± 0.14 from 0.70 ± 0.20 in group 2; best spectacle corrected visual acuity improved to logMAR 0.23 ± 0.22 from logMAR 0.36 ± 0.14) in group 1, and logMAR 0.29 ± 0.18 from logMAR 0.50 ± 0.20) in group 2 (P < 0.001, in both groups). Mean decreased endothelial cell density was 241 cells/mm2 (8.61%) and 223 cells/mm2 (8.42%) at 18 months follow up in group 1 and 2, respectively (P = 0.17) but significant in comparison to preoperative values for both groups (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:  Although both iris‐claw and angle‐supported lenses offer good refractive outcomes significant endothelial cell density was observed at 18 months follow up.
Evaluation of the difference between intended and measured ablation and its impact on refractive outcomes of the wavefront optimize profile and the S001 Wellington nomogram in myopic spherocylindrical corrections
Authors: Labiris Georgios , Sideroudi Haris , Giarmoukakis Athanassios , Koukoula Stavrenia , Pagonis Georgios , Kozobolis Vassilios P
Published: June 2011

Abstract

Background:  To evaluate the level of agreement between intended and measured ablation of the wavefront optimize profile corrected by the Wellington nomogram in myopic spherocylindrical corrections and assess its impact on refractive outcomes.

Design:  Prospective, university–institute setting.

Participants:  Eighty‐six participants (86 eyes for photorefractive keratectomy group) and 86 participants (86 eyes for laser in situ keratomileusis group) recruited in a consecutive‐if –eligible basis.

Methods:  Differences between intended and measured ablation were evaluated with Scheimpflug camera. Refractive outcomes were evaluated by means of postoperative spherical equivalent, postoperative defocus equivalent, contrast sensitivity, correction index, difference vector and index of success.

Main Outcome Measures:  Correlation of visual outcomes with intended ablation.

Results:  Both groups demonstrated significant over‐ablations (16.7 ± 8.5, P < 0.001 & 11.8 ± 18.5, P < 0.001, respectively). Intended ablation was the primary determinant of the measured difference (r‐square 0.769 & 0.765, respectively). Photorefractive keratectomy corrections over 100 µ had significant impact on postoperative spherical equivalent, postoperative defocus equivalent, correction index, difference vector and index of success (P = 0.044, P = 0.05, P = 0.019, P = 0.016, P = 0.006, respectively), but laser in situ keratomileusis corrections over 100 µ had significant impact only on postoperative defocus equivalent, difference vector and index of success (P = 0.04, P = 0.05).

Conclusions:  The results suggest that the wavefront optimize profile seems to over‐ablate corneal tissue both in photorefractive keratectomy and laser in situ keratomileusis. Over‐ablation exerts significant impact on refractive outcomes only in high spherocylindrical corrections.
Critical tooth number without subjective dysphagia
Authors: Fukai Kakuhiro , Takiguchi Toru , Ando Yuichi , Aoyama Hitoshi , Miyakawa Youko , Ito Gakuji , Inoue Masakazu , Sasaki Hidetada
Published: June 2011

Aim:  To assess the critical tooth number (CTN) required for prevention of subjective dysphagia caused by oral impairments and to evaluate the relationship between this CTN and mortality.

Methods:  The baseline study was performed with residents aged 40–89 years (n = 5 643; 2224 men and 3419 women) in Miyako Islands, Okinawa, in 1987. Dental examinations were performed by dentists, and subjective dysphagia was asked. We recorded the cause and year of death of participants who died during the next 15 years.

Results:  The average functional tooth number of participants with and without subjective dysphagia declined with age in both sexes. The CTN for each respective age group (40s, 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s) not including the denture group were 20.0, 17.5, 14.0, 11.8 and 10.1 in men and 19.0, 14.7, 12.7, 9.5 and 4.0 in women. These CTN were significant factors of 15‐year mortality in both sexes (P < 0.05). The hazard ratios were 0.72 (95% confidence interval = 0.55–0.93) in men and 0.71 (0.51–0.99) in women.

Conclusion:  In aged people, the minimum number of functional teeth needed to avoid subjective dysphagia might not be as high as in young people. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2011; 11: 482–487.
Fatigue crack growth in fibre metal laminates with multiple open holes
Authors: CHANG P.‐Y. , YEH P.‐C. , YANG J.‐M.
Published: June 2011

The fatigue crack growth behaviour of hybrid S2‐glass reinforced aluminium laminates (Glare) with multiple open holes was investigated experimentally and analytically. It was observed that the presence of multiple‐site fatigue damage would increase crack growth rates in the metal layers as two propagating cracks converged. An analytical crack growth model was established for predicting crack growth rates based on empirical Paris equation. The effective stress intensity factor at crack tips is a function of mode I far‐field stress intensity factor, crack opening stress intensity factor and effective non‐dimensional stress intensity factor that incorporated the crack‐bridging effect in fibre metal laminates. The predicted results under different applied stress can capture the trend of averaged crack growth rates in experiments, although deviation exists in the predictions.
Neurochemical organization and experience‐dependent activation of estrogen‐associated circuits in the songbird auditory forebrain
Authors: Jeong Jin Kwon , Burrows Kaiping , Tremere Liisa A. , Pinaud Raphael
Published: June 2011

The classic steroid hormone estradiol is rapidly produced by central auditory neurons in the songbird brain and instantaneously modulates auditory coding to enhance the neural and behavioral discrimination of acoustic signals. Although recent advances highlight novel roles for estradiol in the regulation of central auditory processing, current knowledge on the functional and neurochemical organization of estrogen‐associated circuits, as well as the impact of sensory experience in these auditory forebrain networks, remains very limited. Here we show that both estrogen‐producing and ‐sensitive neurons are highly expressed in the caudomedial nidopallium (NCM), the zebra finch analog of the mammalian auditory association cortex, but not other auditory forebrain areas. We further demonstrate that auditory experience primarily engages estrogen‐producing, and to a lesser extent, estrogen‐responsive neurons in NCM, that these neuronal populations moderately overlap and that acute episodes of sensory experience do not quantitatively affect these circuits. Finally, we show that whereas estrogen‐producing cells are neurochemically heterogeneous, estrogen‐sensitive neurons are primarily glutamatergic. These findings reveal the neurochemical and functional organization of estrogen‐associated circuits in the auditory forebrain, demonstrate their activation and stability in response to sensory experience in behaving animals, and highlight estrogenic circuits as fundamental components of central networks supporting sensory processing.
Perirhinal cortex lesions uncover subsidiary systems in the rat for the detection of novel and familiar objects
Authors: Albasser Mathieu M. , Amin Eman , Iordanova Mihaela D. , Brown Malcolm W. , Pearce John M. , Aggleton John P.
Published: June 2011

The present study compared the impact of perirhinal cortex lesions on tests of object recognition. Object recognition was tested directly by looking at the preferential exploration of novel objects over simultaneously presented familiar objects. Object recognition was also tested indirectly by presenting just novel objects or just familiar objects, and recording exploration levels. Rats with perirhinal cortex lesions were severely impaired at discriminating a novel object from a simultaneously presented familiar object (direct test), yet displayed normal levels of exploration to novel objects presented on their own and showed normal declines in exploration times for familiar objects that were repeatedly presented (indirect tests). This effective reduction in the exploration of familiar objects after perirhinal cortex lesions points to the sparing of some recognition mechanisms. This possibility led us to determine whether rats with perirhinal cortex lesions can overcome their preferential exploration deficits when given multiple object familiarisation trials prior to that same (familiar) object being paired with a novel object. It was found that after multiple familiarisation trials, objects could now successfully be recognised as familiar by rats with perirhinal cortex lesions, both following a 90‐min delay (the longest delay tested) and when object recognition was tested in the dark after familiarisation trials in the light. These latter findings reveal: (i) the presumed recruitment of other regions to solve recognition memory problems in the absence of perirhinal cortex tissue; and (ii) that these additional recognition mechanisms require more familiarisation trials than perirhinal‐based recognition mechanisms.
Performance of the On‐Q pain infusion device during changes in environmental temperature
Authors: Burnett Tyler , Bhalla Tarun , Sawardekar Amod , Tobias Joseph D.
Published: June 2011

Background:  The On‐Q infusion device is an elastomeric device with a flow regulator that controls the flow of a local anesthetic agent through a peripheral catheter. As variations in external temperature may affect the diameter of the tubing or viscosity of the fluid, it is feasible that alterations in flow may be caused by such temperature variations. This study evaluates the performance of this device during variations in environmental temperature.

Methods:  The disposable 400 ml On‐Q pain ball infusion devices were filled and connected to a single, end hole infusion catheter and set to infuse at 14 ml·h−1. Eighteen devices were used in the study (six of each at three different temperatures). The temperatures included hot (54°C), room temperature (21°C), and cold (6°C). The devices were allowed to flow for 24 h. The fluid delivered during each 12‐h period was measured using a graduated column.

Results:  There were significant differences in the output from the devices at the hot (54°C) temperature and the cold (6°C) temperature when compared to room temperature (21°C). When compared to room temperature, the output decreased to 67% and 54% of the control group (room temperature) during hours 0–12 and 12–24, respectively, in a cold environment (6°C). An increased external temperature resulted in a greater output from the devices. When compared to the room temperature devices, the output was 49% higher during the first 12 h and 40% higher during the second 12 h at an external temperature of 54°C.

Conclusions:  This preliminary investigation demonstrates what may be clinically significant changes in output from the On‐Q pain device based on the external temperature. These alterations in flow could result in inadequate analgesia or even potentially toxicity if these devices are used in smaller patients especially the pediatric population.
Can Personal Values Predict Performance? Evidence in an Academic Setting
Authors: Parks Laura , Guay Russell P.
Published: June 2011

In this paper we briefly review the construct of personal values, and we examine whether achievement values may be incrementally related to performance beyond personality. We also consider the motivational processes that may mediate the relationships between characteristics of the individual (personality and values) and performance. In an academic setting, achievement values were related to course performance even after controlling for the relevant personality factors of Conscientiousness, Emotional Stability, and Extraversion. Further, motivational processes of goal content and goal striving mediated the relationships between individual characteristics (personality and values) and performance.
Location of residual cancer after transrectal high‐intensity focused ultrasound ablation for clinically localized prostate cancer
Authors: Boutier Romain , Girouin Nicolas , Cheikh Alexandre Ben , Belot Aurélien , Rabilloud Muriel , Gelet Albert , Chapelon Jean‐Yves , Rouvière Olivier
Published: June 2011

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What’s known on the subject ? and What does the study add?

Transrectal High‐Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) ablation has been used as a minimally invasive treatment for localized prostate cancer for 15 years. Five‐year disease‐free survival rates of 66–78% have been reported, challenging the results of external‐beam radiation therapy. Usually, a 6‐mm safety margin is used in the apex to preserve the urinary sphincter and potency. The influence of this 6‐mm margin on the results of the treatment has never been assessed.

This retrospective study of a cohort of 99 patients who underwent systematic biopsy 3–6 months after HIFU ablation for prostate cancer (with a 6‐mm safety margin in the apex) shows that post‐HIFU residual cancer is found more frequently in the apex. Therefore, new strategies improving the prostate destruction at the apex while preserving the urinary continence need to be found.

OBJECTIVE

• To evaluate whether the location (apex/midgland/base) of prostate cancer influences the risk of incomplete transrectal high‐intensity focused ultrasonography (HIFU) ablation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• We retrospectively studied 99 patients who underwent prostate cancer HIFU ablation (Ablatherm; EDAP, Vaulx‐en‐Velin, France) with a 6‐mm safety margin at the apex, and had systematic biopsies 3–6 months after treatment.

• Locations of positive pre‐ and post‐HIFU sextants were compared.

• The present study included two analyses. First, sextants negative before and positive after treatment were recoded as positive/positive, hypothesizing that cancer had been missed at pretreatment biopsy. Second, patients with such sextants were excluded.

RESULTS

• Pre‐HIFU biopsies found cancer in all patients and in 215/594 sextants (36.2%); 55 (25.6%) positive sextants were in the apex, 86 (40%) in the midgland and 74 (34.4%) in the base.

• After treatment, residual cancer was found in 36 patients (36.4%) and 50 sextants (8.4%); 30 (60%) positive sextants were in the apex, 12 (24%) in the midgland and eight (16%) in the base.

• Both statistical analyses found that the locations of the positive sextants before and after HIFU ablation were significantly different (P < 0.001), with a higher proportion of positive apical sextants after treatment.

• At the first analysis, the mean (95% confidence interval) probability for a sextant to remain positive after HIFU ablation was 8.8% (3.5–20.3%) in the base, 12.7% (5.8–25.9%) in the midgland and 41.7% (27.2–57.89%) in the apex.

• At the second analysis, these same probabilities were 5.9% (1.9–17%), 9.9% (3.9–23.2%) and 27.3% (13.7–47%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

• When a 6‐mm apical safety margin is used, residual cancer after HIFU ablation is found significantly more frequently in the apex.
Impact of renal vein invasion and fat invasion in pT3a renal cell carcinoma
Authors: da Costa Walter Henriques , Moniz Ravendra R. , da Cunha Isabela Werneck , Fonseca Francisco Paulo , Guimaraes Gustavo Cardoso , de Cássio Zequi Stênio
Published: June 2011

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

The presence of invasion of renal vein and perinephric fat are predictors of poor outcome in patients with RCC. The latest version of the TNM system included tumours exhibiting such parameters in the T3a stage, thus grouping tumours with distinct pathologic features.

Our study showed that patients with RCC presenting concomitant invasion of the renal vein invasion and perinephric fat invasion have significantly worse survival rates than those showing any of the parameters separately. Therefore, we conclude that these tumours should not be grouped within T3a stage since they have significantly different outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

• To evaluate the prognostic impact of tumor fat invasion (FI) and renal vein invasion (RVI) in patients with T3a renal cell carcinoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• In total, 220 consecutive patients treated for renal cell carcinoma between 1992 and 2009 were analyzed. T3a stage cases were selected.

• A single pathologist reviewed all cases.

RESULTS

• The present study cohort included 46 patients with mean follow‐up of 28.6 months, of whom 17 (36.9%) died from disease. Patients were initially divided into three groups including 24 (52.1%) of FI only, 11 (23.9%) of RVI only and 11 (23.9%) of both FI and RVI.

• In univariate analysis, no significant differences in disease‐specific survival (DSS) were noted between FI only and RVI only groups (P= 0.91). DSS was significantly worse in the FI + RVI group compared to the other groups (P= 0.02).

• When grouped into FI or RVI vs FI + RVI, DSS remained significantly lower in the group containing the parameters concurrently (P= 0.009). Progression‐free survival also was significantly lower in FI + RVI group (P= 0.01).

• Metastasis, positive lymph nodes and the presence of FI + RVI remained as isolated predictors of survival.

• Patients with FI + RVI presented a 2.6‐fold increase in risk of death from cancer and a 2.5‐fold increase in risk of disease progression (P= 0.04) compared to those with either of them alone.

CONCLUSION

• The isolated or concomitant presence of FI and RVI may be used as one of the criteria for staging in the next edition of the Tumour‐Node‐Metastasis classification because they have significantly different outcomes.
Treatment changes and long‐term recurrence rates after hexaminolevulinate (HAL) fluorescence cystoscopy: does it really make a difference in patients with non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC)?
Authors: Geavlete Bogdan , Multescu Razvan , Georgescu Dragos , Jecu Marian , Stanescu Florin , Geavlete Petrisor
Published: June 2011

Study Type – Therapy (individual cohort)

Level of Evidence 2b

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

HAL fluorescence cystoscopy is known to improve tumour detection in NMIBC cases and to have a potentially favourable impact concerning the recurrence rates.

The present trial assessed the advantages of HAL cystoscopy with regard to postoperative treatment changes and 2 years' recurrence rates, subjects that are poorly evaluated in the literature.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate in a prospective, randomized study the impact of hexaminolevulinate blue‐light cystoscopy (HAL‐BLC) on the diagnostic accuracy and treatment changes in cases of non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) compared with standard white‐light cystoscopy (WLC).

To compare the long‐term recurrence rates in the two study arms.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 362 patients suspected of NMIBC were included in the trial based on positive urinary cytology and/or ultrasonographic suspicion of bladder tumours and underwent transurethral resection of bladder tumours.

A single postoperative mytomicin‐C instillation was performed in all cases, intravesical chemotherapy for intermediate‐risk patients and BCG instillations for high‐risk cases.

The follow‐up protocol consisted of urinary cytology and WLC every 3 months for 2 years.

Only first‐time recurrences after the initial diagnosis were considered.

RESULTS

In the 142 patients with NMIBC in the HAL‐BLC series, tumour detection rates significantly improved for carcinoma in situ, pTa andoverall cases.

In 35.2% of the cases, additional malignant lesions were found by HAL‐BLC and consequently, the recurrence‐ and progression‐risk categories of patients and subsequent treatment improved in 19% of the cases due to fluorescence cystoscopy.

In all, 125 patients in the HAL‐BLC group and 114 of the WLC group completed the follow‐up.

The recurrence rate at 3 months was lower in the HAL‐BLC series (7.2% vs 15.8%) due to fewer ‘other site’ recurrences when compared with the WLC series (0.8% vs 6.1%).

The 1 and 2 years recurrence rates were significantly decreased in the HAL‐BLC group compared with the WLC group (21.6% vs 32.5% and 31.2% vs 45.6%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

HAL‐BLC was better than WLC for detecting NMIBC cases and improved tumour detection rates.

HAL‐BLC significantly modified the postoperative treatment of cases.

The 3 months, 1 and 2 years recurrence rates were significantly improved in the HAL‐BLC arm.
Two risk score models for predicting incident Type 2 diabetes in Japan
Authors: Doi Y. , Ninomiya T. , Hata J. , Hirakawa Y. , Mukai N. , Iwase M. , Kiyohara Y.
Published: June 2011

Diabet. Med. 29, 107–114 (2012)

Aims  Risk scoring methods are effective for identifying persons at high risk of Type 2 diabetes mellitus, but such approaches have not yet been established in Japan.

Methods  A total of 1935 subjects of a derivation cohort were followed up for 14 years from 1988 and 1147 subjects of a validation cohort independent of the derivation cohort were followed up for 5 years from 2002. Risk scores were estimated based on the coefficients (β) of Cox proportional hazards model in the derivation cohort and were verified in the validation cohort.

Results  In the derivation cohort, the non‐invasive risk model was established using significant risk factors; namely, age, sex, family history of diabetes, abdominal circumference, body mass index, hypertension, regular exercise and current smoking. We also created another scoring risk model by adding fasting plasma glucose levels to the non‐invasive model (plus‐fasting plasma glucose model). The area under the curve of the non‐invasive model was 0.700 and it increased significantly to 0.772 (P < 0.001) in the plus‐fasting plasma glucose model. The ability of the non‐invasive model to predict Type 2 diabetes was comparable with that of impaired glucose tolerance, and the plus‐fasting plasma glucose model was superior to it. The cumulative incidence of Type 2 diabetes was significantly increased with elevating quintiles of the sum scores of both models in the validation cohort (P for trend < 0.001).

Conclusions  We developed two practical risk score models for easily identifying individuals at high risk of incident Type 2 diabetes without an oral glucose tolerance test in the Japanese population.
ACTIVE LABOR MARKET PROGRAMS AND REGIONAL MOBILITY OF LABOR: EVIDENCE FROM THE SWEDISH RECESSION, 1994–1995
Authors: NAKOSTEEN ROBERT A. , WESTERLUND OLLE , ZIMMER MICHAEL
Published: June 2011

This paper addresses the impact of active labor market programs on interregional migration in Sweden. The purpose of the study is to determine the extent to which the programs, which provide training and labor market assistance to jobless individuals, induce participants to migrate. Analysis is based on data registers compiled in 1994 and 1995 by Statistics Sweden and the Labor Market Board of Sweden. The paper specifies and estimates a two‐equation model of participation and subsequent migration. The model, which is estimated by the method of maximum simulated likelihood, accounts for the role of program participation as an endogenous choice variable in the decision to migrate. In an attempt to capture the effect of migrant self‐selection, the estimation approach also controls for unobserved heterogeneity in the participation and migration equations.

Results of the study indicate a significant positive impact of participation on subsequent mobility for males. This result is robust with respect to alternative specifications of the migration equation and alternative formulations of the model for program participation. For females, the evidence of program impacts is mixed and it appears to be sensitive to the statistical formulation of the model. (JEL J38, J61)
TARGETS IN THE TAYLOR RULE: INFLATION, SPEED LIMIT, OR PRICE LEVEL?
Authors: KAPINOS PAVEL , HANSON MICHAEL S.
Published: June 2011

This paper explores the link between alternative targets in the Taylor rule and their empirical fit using real‐time U.S. macroeconomic data. We first study the stabilizing properties of the classical Taylor rule (inflation targeting, IT) and add either a price‐level target (PLT) or output gap quasigrowth target (speed‐limit targeting, SLT) in the context of the standard New Keynesian model. We demonstrate that, although only SLT has the same functional form as the optimal interest‐rate reaction function, both PLT and SLT stabilize the model macroeconomy against a cost‐push shock for a wide range of parameter values better than IT. We then estimate all three specifications using the Greenbook data. We find much stronger support for SLT than PLT and discuss pitfalls in estimating the latter that are present in existing literature. (JEL E52, E58)
THE ECONOMICS OF INTRODUCING WINE INTO GROCERY STORES
Authors: RICKARD BRADLEY J.
Published: June 2011

The repeal of the Prohibition Act in 1933 introduced many state‐specific regulations in wine markets. For example, 15 states currently have laws that restrict wine sales in grocery stores. Several of these states have proposed changes that would expand the distribution of wine; however, the proposals have met significant resistance from key stakeholders and none have resulted in legislation. It is widely expected that additional proposals will be initiated, but with more attention given to mechanisms that would address some of the transitional issues. A simulation model is developed here to assess the likely economic effects of introducing wine into grocery stores in New York State. Results indicate that tax revenue would increase by $22 million annually, revenue for in‐state wineries would increase by approximately 13%, and revenue for liquor store owners is calculated to fall by 28%. Simulation results are subsequently used to develop a framework for evaluating the transitional costs of policy reform in this highly regulated industry. (JEL K23, Q18)
THE ROLE OF FINANCIAL LITERACY IN DETERMINING RETIREMENT PLANS
Authors: CLARK ROBERT L. , MORRILL MELINDA SANDLER , ALLEN STEVEN G.
Published: June 2011

Workers nearing retirement face many important, and often irreversible, choices. We collected detailed demographic and financial literacy data on over 1,500 workers nearing retirement at three large companies to assess how individuals are planning for retirement. Many respondents display limited knowledge and understanding of public and company‐provided retirement benefits. Controlling for basic demographics and wealth, we find that misconceptions about eligibility ages and plan generosity influence workers' expected age of retirement. Although retirement‐related decisions will affect workers' well‐being for the remainder of their lifetimes, many do not possess enough basic financial knowledge to confidently make optimal choices. (JEL J26, J320, J240)