bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral fructose absorption in obese children with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Sullivan J. S. , Le M. T. , Pan Z. , Rivard C. , Love‐Osborne K. , Robbins K. , Johnson R. J. , Sokol R. J. , Sundaram S. S.
Published: June 2014

Background

Fructose intake is associated with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) development.

Objective

The objective of this study was to measure fructose absorption/metabolism in paediatric NAFLD compared with obese and lean controls.

Methods

Children with histologically proven NAFLD, and obese and lean controls received oral fructose (1 g kg−1 ideal body weight). Serum glucose, insulin, uric acid, and fructose, urine uric acid, urine fructose, and breath hydrogen levels were measured at baseline and multiple points until 360 min after fructose ingestion.

Results

Nine NAFLD (89% Hispanic, mean age 14.3 years, mean body mass index [BMI] 35.3 kg m−2), six obese controls (67% Hispanic, mean age 12.7 years, mean BMI 31.0 kg m−2) and nine lean controls (44% Hispanic, mean age 14.3 years, mean BMI 19.4 kg m−2) were enrolled. Following fructose ingestion, NAFLD vs. lean controls had elevated serum glucose, insulin and uric acid (P < 0.05), higher urine uric acid (P = 0.001), but lower fructose excretion (P = 0.002) and lower breath hydrogen 180‐min AUC (P = 0.04). NAFLD vs. obese controls had similar post‐fructose serum glucose, insulin, urine uric acid and breath hydrogen, but elevated serum uric acid (P < 0.05) and lower urine fructose excretion (P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Children with NAFLD absorb and metabolize fructose more effectively than lean subjects, associated with an exacerbated metabolic profile following fructose ingestion.
Silencing miR‐146a influences B cells and ameliorates experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis
Authors: Zhang JunMei , Jia Ge , Liu Qun , Hu Jue , Yan Mei , Yang BaiFeng , Yang Huan , Zhou WenBin , Li Jing
Published: June 2014

MicroRNAs have been shown to be important regulators of immune homeostasis as patients with aberrant microRNA expression appeared to be more susceptible to autoimmune diseases. We recently found that miR‐146a was up‐regulated in activated B cells in response to rat acetylcholine receptor (AChR) α‐subunit 97‐116 peptide, and this up‐regulation was significantly attenuated by AntagomiR‐146a. Our data also demonstrated that silencing miR‐146a with its inhibitor AntagomiR‐146a effectively ameliorated clinical myasthenic symptoms in mice with ongoing experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis. Furthermore, multiple defects were observed after miR‐146a was knocked down in B cells, including decreased anti‐R97‐116 antibody production and class switching, reduced numbers of plasma cells, memory B cells and B‐1 cells, and weakened activation of B cells. Previously, miR‐146a has been identified as a nuclear factor‐κB‐dependent gene and predicted to base pair with the tumour necrosis factor receptor‐associated factor 6 (TRAF6) and interleukin‐1 receptor‐associated kinase 1 (IRAK1) genes to regulate the immune response. However, our study proved that miR‐146a inhibition had no effect on the expression of TRAF6 and IRAK1 in B cells. This result suggests that the function of miR‐146a in B cells does not involve these two target molecules. We conclude that silencing miR‐146a exerts its therapeutic effects by influencing the B‐cell functions that contribute to the autoimmune pathogenesis of myasthenia gravis.
Ex vivo Biomechanical Comparison of V‐Loc 180® Absorbable Wound Closure Device and Standard Polyglyconate Suture for Diaphragmatic Herniorrhaphy in a Canine Model
Authors: Templeton Megan M. , Krebs Alexander I. , Kraus Karl H. , Hedlund Cheryl S.
Published: June 2014

Objective

To compare 2‐0 polyglyconate barbed suture (V‐LOC™ 180 Absorbable Wound Closure Device, Covidien, Mansfield, MA) to standard 2‐0 monofilament absorbable polyglyconate suture (Maxon™, Covidien) for maximum load to failure and failure mode when used to appose standardized defects in canine diaphragm muscle.

Study Design

Randomized, cadaveric ex vivo mechanical testing.

Sample Population

Canine cadaveric hemi‐diaphragmatic specimens (n = 32 pairs).

Methods

Thirty‐two cadaveric diaphragm specimens were collected and divided to obtain 64 muscle specimens (9 cm × 4 cm). Paired specimens were bisected in the midpoint of their 9 cm length in the direction of the muscle fibers and apposed using either 2‐0 polyglyconate or 2‐0 barbed polyglyconate (V‐LOC™ 180 Absorbable Wound Closure Device) in a simple continuous pattern. Increasing tension was applied perpendicular to the suture line until specimen failure. Failure mode and maximum load to failure were recorded for each specimen.

Results

Mean ± SD failure load of simulated herniorrhaphies performed with barbed polyglyconate suture (54.5 ± 10.27 N) was not significantly different than repair with polyglyconate (56.9 ± 10.87 N). Failure mode for both construct types was suture tear out rather than suture failure.

Conclusions

Clinical application of 2‐0 barbed polyglyconate suture can be considered as an alternative to the use of 2‐0 polyglyconate for diaphragmatic herniorrhaphy.
Retrospective Analysis of the Learning Curve Associated With Laparoscopic Ovariectomy in Dogs and Associated Perioperative Complication Rates
Authors: Pope Juliet Frances Anne , Knowles Toby Grahame
Published: June 2014

Objective

To assess the learning curve associated with laparoscopic ovariectomy (LOE) in 618 dogs and to report perioperative complication rates.

Study Design

Case series.

Animals

Dogs (n = 618).

Methods

Data retrieved from the medical records of bitches admitted for LOE over 42 months included date of surgery, breed, weight (kg), age (months), surgeon, suture material used, intraoperative complications and postoperative complications. Each LOE was defined as “successful” or “unsuccessful” by the absence or presence of an intraoperative complication and “failure” rate described using a CUSUM technique.

Results

Follow‐up time ranged from 152 to 1,435 days (median, 737 days). Intraoperative complications occurred in 10 dogs (1.6%) and included: splenic laceration (6 dogs; 1%), urinary bladder perforation (3 dogs; 0.5%), and subcutaneous emphysema (1 dog; 0.2%). Postoperative complications occurred in 99 dogs (16%) and included: incisional inflammation treated with antibiotics (87 dogs [14%]; 96/1,854 incisions; 5.1%), incisional seroma (5 dogs [0.8%]; 5/1,854 incisions, 0.3%), incisional hernia (4 dogs [0.6%]; 4/1,854 incisions, 0.2%), and ovarian remnant syndrome (3 dogs; 0.5%). CUSUM charts indicated an initial “learning curve” of ∼80 LOE.

Conclusions

LOE is a technique with an initial learning curve but once surgical proficiency is reached after ∼80 procedures then intraoperative complication rates associated with the procedure can be low.
Relationship Between Axial Radioulnar Incongruence With Cartilage Damage in Dogs With Medial Coronoid Disease
Authors: Eljack Hamdi , Böttcher Peter
Published: June 2014

Objective

To quantify axial radioulnar incongruence (aRUI) in dogs with simple fragmented medial coronoid process (FCP) and those with advanced medial coronoid disease (MCD).

Study Design

Retrospective clinical study.

Sample Population

Group 1: 54 elbow joints (54 dogs) with FCP, but no other visible cartilage damage. Group 2: 32 elbows (32 dogs) with Outerbridge grade 3–4 cartilage pathology of the medial coronoid ± FCP.

Methods

aRUI was quantified using CT based 3D models of the radioulnar joint cup. A sphere was fitted to the trochlear notch of each of the 3D models and aRUI estimated in millimeters based on the relation of the sphere and the radial joint surface. Coronoid disease was diagnosed, classified, and graded using arthroscopy.

Results

Mean (±SD) aRUI for group 1 (0.2 ± 0.8 mm) was significantly less than in group 2 (0.8 ± 0.9 mm; P = .001). Overall, 14% had negative aRUI whereas 40% were congruent. Stepwise logistic regression analysis identified age and aRUI, but not body weight as significant covariates. The corresponding odds ratios for advanced MCD were 1.6 for age and 6.4 for RUI, respectively.

Conclusion

Axial RUI is greater and more prevalent in elbows with severe cartilage disease, and consists most commonly of a short radius.
Norms or Interests? Explaining Instrumental Variation in EU Democracy Promotion in Africa
Authors: Del Biondo Karen
Published: June 2014

This article investigates the causes for instrumental variation in EU democracy promotion in Africa. Can instrumental variation better be explained from a realist or from an idealist perspective? Realism would predict that sanctions are more likely in the absence of historical, security or commercial interests. Idealism would suggest that sanctions are more likely in the case of grave violations of democracy and human rights, in countries that are unstable and economically underperforming, and when there is pressure from regional organizations and domestic actors. Empirically, the article compares two cases (Guinea and Niger) where the EU imposed sanctions and two non‐cases (Ethiopia and Rwanda) where the EU was reluctant to do so. Contrary to the prevalent thesis in the literature, the article finds stronger evidence for idealism (which is confirmed in all the cases) than for realism (which is only confirmed in the cases of Guinea and Ethiopia).
Longitudinal study of symptom severity and language in minimally verbal children with autism
Authors: Thurm Audrey , Manwaring Stacy S. , Swineford Lauren , Farmer Cristan
Published: June 2014

Background

A significant minority of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are considered ‘minimally verbal’ due to language development stagnating at a few words. Recent developments allow for the severity of ASD symptoms to be examined using Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) Social Affect (SA) and Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors (RRB) domain severity scores. The aim of the current study was to explore language outcomes in a cohort of minimally verbal children with autism evaluated through the preschool years and determine if and how ASD symptom severity in core domains predicts the development of spoken language by age 5.

Methods

The sample consisted of 70 children with autism aged 1–5 years at the first evaluation who were examined at least 1 year later, during their fifth year of age. The ADOS overall level of language item was used to categorize children as minimally verbal or having phrase speech, and the Mullen Scales of Early Learning was used as a continuous measure of expressive language.

Results

At Time 1, 65% (n = 47) of children in the sample were minimally verbal and by Time 2, 36% (n = 17 of 47) of them had developed phrase speech. While the Time 1 ADOS calibrated severity scores did not predict whether or not a child remained minimally verbal at Time 2, change in the SA calibrated severity score (but not RRB) was predictive of the continuous measure of expressive language. However, change in SA severity no longer predicted continuous expressive language when nonverbal cognitive ability was added to the model.

Conclusions

Findings indicate that the severity of SA symptoms has some relationship with continuous language outcome, but not categorical. However, the omnipresent influence of nonverbal cognitive ability was confirmed in the current study, as the addition of it to the model rendered null the predictive utility of SA severity.
Additive genetic variance and developmental plasticity in growth trajectories in a wild cooperative mammal
Authors: Huchard E. , Charmantier A. , English S. , Bateman A. , Nielsen J. F. , Clutton‐Brock T.
Published: June 2014

Individual variation in growth is high in cooperative breeders and may reflect plastic divergence in developmental trajectories leading to breeding vs. helping phenotypes. However, the relative importance of additive genetic variance and developmental plasticity in shaping growth trajectories is largely unknown in cooperative vertebrates. This study exploits weekly sequences of body mass from birth to adulthood to investigate sources of variance in, and covariance between, early and later growth in wild meerkats (Suricata suricatta), a cooperative mongoose. Our results indicate that (i) the correlation between early growth (prior to nutritional independence) and adult mass is positive but weak, and there are frequent changes (compensatory growth) in post‐independence growth trajectories; (ii) among parameters describing growth trajectories, those describing growth rate (prior to and at nutritional independence) show undetectable heritability while associated size parameters (mass at nutritional independence and asymptotic mass) are moderately heritable (0.09 ≤ h2 < 0.3); and (iii) additive genetic effects, rather than early environmental effects, mediate the covariance between early growth and adult mass. These results reveal that meerkat growth trajectories remain plastic throughout development, rather than showing early and irreversible divergence, and that the weak effects of early growth on adult mass, an important determinant of breeding success, are partly genetic. In contrast to most cooperative invertebrates, the acquisition of breeding status is often determined after sexual maturity and strongly impacted by chance in many cooperative vertebrates, who may therefore retain the ability to adjust their morphology to environmental changes and social opportunities arising throughout their development, rather than specializing early.
Early environment influences later performance in fishes
Authors: Jonsson B. , Jonsson N.
Published: June 2014

Conditions fish encounter during embryogenesis and early life history can leave lasting effects not only on morphology, but also on growth rate, life‐history and behavioural traits. The ecology of offspring can be affected by conditions experienced by their parents and mother in particular. This review summarizes such early impacts and their ecological influences for a variety of teleost species, but with special reference to salmonids. Growth and adult body size, sex ratio, egg size, lifespan and tendency to migrate can all be affected by early influences. Mechanisms behind such phenotypically plastic impacts are not well known, but epigenetic change appears to be one central mechanism. The thermal regime during development and incubation is particularly important, but also early food consumption and intraspecific density can all be responsible for later life‐history variation. For behavioural traits, early experiences with effects on brain, sensory development and cognition appear essential. This may also influence boldness and other social behaviours such as mate choice. At the end of the review, several issues and questions for future studies are given.
Gaidropsarus(Gadidae, Teleostei) of the North Atlantic Ocean: a brief phylogenetic review
Authors: Francisco S. M. , Robalo J. I. , Stefanni S. , Levy A. , Almada V. C.
Published: June 2014

The phylogenetic relationships among the North AtlanticGaidropsarusand between the three Gaidropsarinae generaGaidropsarus,CiliataandEnchelyopusare reviewed with the hitherto most comprehensive taxonomic sampling of this group. Phylogenetic results (maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference) based on nuclear (rhodopsin) and concatenated mitochondrial (12s,16sandcytb) markers clearly support this subfamily. For the north‐eastern Atlantic species ofGaidropsarus, two previously unreported clades were strongly supported, clarifying the relationships within the genus, and revealing fewer distinct taxa in the north AtlanticGaidropsarusthan previously stipulated. The data challenge the specific status ofGaidropsarus mediterraneusandGaidropsarus guttatusand raise doubts concerning the distinctiveness of other species. A taxonomic revision of the genus is suggested.
Use of permanent marker to deposit a protection layer against FIB damage in TEM specimen preparation
Authors: PARK Y.C. , PARK B.C. , ROMANKOV S. , PARK K.J. , YOO J.H. , LEE Y.B. , YANG J.‐M.
Published: June 2014

Permanent marker deposition (PMD), which creates permanent writing on an object with a permanent marker, was investigated as a method to deposit a protection layer against focused ion beam damage. PMD is a simple, fast and cheap process. Further, PMD is excellent in filling in narrow and deep trenches, enabling damage‐free observation of high aspect ratio structures with atomic resolution in transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The microstructure, composition, gap filling ability and planarization of the PMD layer were studied using dual beam focused ion beam, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and electron energy loss spectroscopy. It was found that a PMD layer is basically an amorphous carbon structure, and that such a layer should be at least 65 nm thick to protect a surface against 30 keV focused ion beam damage. We suggest that such a PMD layer can be an excellent protection layer to maintain a pristine sample structure against focused ion beam damage during transmission electron microscopy specimen preparation.
Ozone dosing alters the biological potential and therapeutic outcomes of plasma rich in growth factors
Authors: Anitua E. , Zalduendo M. M. , Troya M. , Orive G.
Published: June 2014

Background and Objective

Until now, ozone has been used in a rather empirical way. This in‐vitro study investigates, for the first time, whether different ozone treatments of plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) alter the biological properties and outcomes of this autologous platelet‐rich plasma.

Material and Methods

Human plasma rich in growth factors was treated with ozone using one of the following protocols: a continuous‐flow method; or a syringe method in which constant volumes of ozone and PRGF were mixed. In both cases, ozone was added before, during and after the addition of calcium chloride. Three ozone concentrations, of the therapeutic range 20, 40 and 80 μg/mL, were tested. Fibrin clot properties, growth factor content and the proliferative effect on primary osteoblasts and gingival fibroblasts were evaluated.

Results

Ozone treatment of PRGF using the continuous flow protocol impaired formation of the fibrin scaffold, drastically reduced the levels of growth factors and significantly decreased the proliferative potential of PRGF on primary osteoblasts and gingival fibroblasts. In contrast, treatment of PRGF with ozone using the syringe method, before, during and after the coagulation process, did not alter the biological outcomes of the autologous therapy.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that ozone dose and the way that ozone combines with PRGF may alter the biological potential and therapeutic outcomes of PRGF.
Prepuce and partial penile amputation for treatment of preputial gland neoplasia in two ferrets
Authors: van Zeeland Y. R. A. , Lennox A. , Quinton J. F. , Schoemaker N. J.
Published: June 2014

Preputial tumours in ferrets are frequently malignant and therefore warrant prompt investigation. As many cases do not respond favourably to surgery, even in combination with radiation therapy, wide surgical resection has been recommended. Such a procedure may necessitate partial or total penile resection but outcomes have thus far not been well described. The current case series describes two ferrets in which surgical resection, including penile amputation, was performed using 10 and 5 mm margins, respectively. In the first case, no recurrence of preputial gland adenocarcinoma was noted for 32 months postsurgery, whereas multiple attempts at surgery and radiation therapy were unsuccessful in the second. These cases suggest that margins of at least 1 cm may help achieve a better outcome. Penile amputation for the treatment of preputial tumours appears to be well tolerated by ferrets, as demonstrated by these cases.
Natural History of Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy in the Boxer Dog: A Prospective Study
Authors: Meurs K.M. , Stern J.A. , Reina‐Doreste Y. , Spier A.W. , Koplitz S.L. , Baumwart R.D.
Published: June 2014

Background

Boxer arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is a disease that may result in sudden death or heart failure.

Hypothesis/objectives

To prospectively study the natural history of Boxer ARVC.

Animals

72 dogs (49 ARVC, 23 controls).

Methods

Boxers >1 year of age were recruited for annual reevaluation. Controls were defined as being ≥6 years of age and having <50 ventricular premature complex (VPCs)/24 h. ARVC was defined as ≥300 VPCs/24 h in the absence of other disease. Dogs were genotyped for the striatin deletion when possible. Descriptive statistics were determined for age; VPC number; annual change in VPC number; and left ventricular (LV) echocardiographic dimensions. Survival time was calculated.

Results

Controls: median age of 7 years (range, 6–10); number of VPCs 12 (range, 4–32). Median time in study of 6 years (range, 2–9). Seventeen of 23 were genotyped (5 positive, 12 negative).

ARVC: median age of diagnosis of 6 (range, 1–11). Median time in study 5 years (range, 3–8). A total of 33% were syncopal and 43/49 were genotyped (36 positive, 7 negative). Yearly change in VPCs was 46 (range, −7,699 to 33,524). Annual percentage change in LV dimensions was 0, and change in fractional shortening (FS%) was 2%. Two dogs had FS% <20%. Although ARVC dogs died suddenly, there was no difference in survival time between groups. ARVC median age of survival was 11 years, and for controls was 10 years.

Conclusions/Clinical Importance

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy is a disease of middle age and frequently is associated with the striatin deletion. Syncope occurs in approximately 1/3 of affected dogs; systolic dysfunction is uncommon. The prognosis in many affected dogs is good.
Why some parasites are widespread and abundant while others are local and rare?
Authors: Robalinho Lima Marcos , Bensch Staffan
Published: June 2014

Abundances and distributions of species are usually associated. This implies that as a species declines in abundance so does the number of sites it occupies. Conversely, when there is an increase in a species' range size, it is usually followed by an increase in population size (Gaston et al. ). This ecological phenomenon, also known as the abundance–occupancy relationship (AOR), is well documented in several species of animals and plants (Gaston et al. ) but has been little investigated in parasites. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Drovetski et al. () investigated the AOR in avian haemosporidians (vector‐borne blood parasites) using data from four well‐sampled bird communities. In support of the AOR, the research group found that the abundance of parasite cytochrome b lineages (a commonly used proxy for species identification within this group of parasites) was positively linked with the abundance of susceptible avian host species and that the most abundant haemospordian lineages were those with larger ranges. Drovetski et al. () also found evidence for both hypotheses proposed to explain the AOR in parasites: the trade‐off hypothesis (TOH) and the niche‐breadth hypothesis (NBH). Interestingly, the main predictor of the AOR was the number of susceptible hosts (i.e. number of infected birds) and not the number of host species the parasites were able to exploit.
Human papillomavirus and cancerous diseases of the head and neck: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Saulle R , Semyonov L , Mannocci A , Careri A , Saburri F , Ottolenghi L , Guerra F , La Torre G
Published: June 2014

The increasing incidence of head and neck cancer (HNSCC) highlights the need to better understand the role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in the development of these cancers. The aims of this study were to conduct a systematic review and a meta‐analysis concerning observational studies on the association between HPV infection and HNSCC and to quantify this association, thereby obtaining a reliable estimation of the risk of HPV infection in the development of head and neck cancer. Literature searches were performed using PubMed and Scopus databases. StatsDirect 2.7.8 program was used for the analysis. We found 15 case–control studies, 63 prevalence studies, and no cohort studies. The pooled odds ratio (OR) for all the included case–control studies resulted in a value of 1.63 (95% CI 1.27–2.09; P < 0.0001). The highest pooled OR resulted from the analysis of all the studies that examined HPV 16 genotype in association oral cavity (OR 5.36; 95% CI 1.4–20). The strong evidence of association between HPV infection and HNSCC highlights the importance of the introduction of specific tests in the cancer prevention practices to evaluate the presence of the virus, especially in the oral cavity, and the possibility of an extension of the vaccine anti‐HPV in the male population too.
Inhibitory effect of Lactobacillus salivarius on Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation
Authors: Wu C.‐C. , Lin C.‐T. , Wu C.‐Y. , Peng W.‐S. , Lee M.‐J. , Tsai Y.‐C.
Published: June 2014

Dental caries arises from an imbalance of metabolic activities in dental biofilms developed primarily by Streptococcus mutans. This study was conducted to isolate potential oral probiotics with antagonistic activities against S. mutans biofilm formation from Lactobacillus salivarius, frequently found in human saliva. We analysed 64 L. salivarius strains and found that two, K35 and K43, significantly inhibited S. mutans biofilm formation with inhibitory activities more pronounced than those of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), a prototypical probiotic that shows anti‐caries activity. Scanning electron microscopy showed that co‐culture of S. mutans with K35 or K43 resulted in significantly reduced amounts of attached bacteria and network‐like structures, typically comprising exopolysaccharides. Spot assay for S. mutans indicated that K35 and K43 strains possessed a stronger bactericidal activity against S. mutans than LGG. Moreover, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction showed that the expression of genes encoding glucosyltransferases, gtfB, gtfC, and gtfD was reduced when S. mutans were co‐cultured with K35 or K43. However, LGG activated the expression of gtfB and gtfC, but did not influence the expression of gtfD in the co‐culture. A transwell‐based biofilm assay indicated that these lactobacilli inhibited S. mutans biofilm formation in a contact‐independent manner. In conclusion, we identified two L. salivarius strains with inhibitory activities on the growth and expression of S. mutans virulence genes to reduce its biofilm formation. This is not a general characteristic of the species, so presents a potential strategy for in vivo alteration of plaque biofilm and caries.
Three‐finger tracheal palpation to guide endotracheal tube depth in children
Authors: Gamble Jonathan J. , McKay William P. , Wang Andrew F. , Yip Kinsha A. , O'Brien Jennifer M. , Plewes Christopher E.
Published: June 2014

Background

Accurate endotracheal tube (ETT) depth is critical, especially in children. The current tools used to guide appropriate ETT depth have significant limitations.

Objectives

To evaluate the utility of tracheal palpation in the neck to guide appropriate ETT placement in children.

Methods

A prospective observational study with a convenience sample of 50 children was conducted. During intubation, an investigator palpated the trachea with three fingertips side‐by‐side extending upward from the suprasternal notch. The anesthesiologist advanced the ETT slowly until palpated at the sternal notch. The investigator stated ETT palpation certainty as ‘strongly felt’, ‘weakly felt’, or ‘not felt.’ Final ETT position was determined by bronchoscopy and categorized as ‘ETT too shallow’ (tip in proximal ¼ of trachea), ‘ETT too deep’ (tip in distal ¼ of trachea), or ‘ETT placement satisfactory’ (between those extremes).

Results

Thirty boys and 20 girls undergoing dental surgery with nasal intubation were recruited (median age 4.4 years; range 2.0–10.8). The ETT (all ≥4 mm ID) was palpable at the sternal notch in all patients: 46 of 50 strongly palpable and 4 of 50 weakly palpable. The experimental methods led to satisfactory ETT placement in 49 of 50 patients, too deep in 1 of 50 patients. Compared with the Pediatrics Advanced Life Support (PALS) predictive formula, satisfactory placement would have been 41 of 50 patients (P < 0.008). Number needed to treat is 6.3 for improvement over the PALS method.

Conclusions

The use of tracheal palpation to guide ETT placement has excellent clinical performance and better guides appropriate ETT depth than the PALS formula in our study population.
The impact of clonidine on sedation after adenotonsillectomy: a prospective audit
Authors: Blackburn Lee , Ottaway Kaye , Anderson Brian J
Published: June 2014

Aims

Clonidine may be used intraoperatively to decrease emergence delirium in children, but the drug's impact on postoperative sedation is poorly quantified.

Methods

A prospective audit of children (≤15 years) undergoing (adeno) tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy over a period of 4 months was carried out. All children received sevoflurane for induction and maintenance of anesthesia. The use of clonidine as an adjunct was left to the discretion of the anesthesiologist. Postoperative sedation was assessed using the University of Michigan Sedation Scale (UMSS) at 30 min intervals until discharge. Arousal was characterized using a zero asymptote model. The impact of clonidine dose on half‐time to an awake state after anesthesia was investigated using nonlinear mixed effects models. Survival analysis was used to explore the effect of clonidine dose on discharge time.

Results

The mean age of children (n = 177) was 5.4 sd 3.3 years, range 0.8–15.0 years and weight was 23.8 sd 11.4 kg, range 10.0–76.4 kg. There were 73 children given clonidine 0.29–4.80 mcg·kg−1 after induction. The half‐time to emergence was 10.8 (95% CI 8.5, 13.2) min. Emergence half‐time was increased to 15 min with clonidine 0.5 mcg·kg−1, 20 min with clonidine 1.5 mcg·kg−1, 25 min with clonidine 2 mcg·kg−1 and 65 min with clonidine 4 mcg·kg−1. Clonidine doses 0.5–3 mcg·kg−1 did not affect hospital discharge time.

Conclusions

Clonidine administered intraoperatively for (adeno) tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy prolonged emergence from anesthesia. Doses of 0.5–3 mcg·kg−1 caused greater sedation in the postanesthesia care unit but did not impact on hospital discharge times.
Treatment of Common Low Back Pain: A New Approach to an Old Problem
Authors: Bosscher Hemmo A. , Heavner James E.
Published: June 2014

Low back pain is very common, but the pathophysiology is poorly understood. We present a new hypothesis regarding the pathophysiology of common low back pain supported by our flexible endoscopic observations of the epidural cavity (epiduroscopy), anatomic dissection of embalmed and fresh cadavers, and careful review of preexisting information available on the anatomy of the epidural space and neuroforamen. A new approach to the treatment of common low back pain based on the hypothesis was developed and is presented in the case reports of five patients. Treatment focuses on a perichondrium derivative; the peridural membrane, which creates a suprapedicular compartment in the neuroforamen where we hypothesize inflammatory material accumulates. This produces common low back pain by causing inflammation and sensitization of the peridural membrane and periosteum that forms the boundaries of this compartment. Percutaneous Ablation and Curettage and Inferior Foraminotomy (PACIFsm) aims to destroy the peridural membrane, denervate sensitive structures, and remove inflammatory tissues from the suprapedicular canal. The proposed mechanism of action and safety of PACIFsm is discussed in the context of epidural and neuroforaminal anatomy. As shown by the five case reports, PACIFsm appears to be highly effective and safe, warranting further evaluation.
Heparin inhibits melanosome uptake and inflammatory response coupled with phagocytosis through blocking PI3k/Akt and MEK/ERK signaling pathways in human epidermal keratinocytes
Authors: Makino‐Okamura Chieko , Niki Yoko , Takeuchi Seiji , Nishigori Chikako , Declercq Lieve , Yaroch Daniel B. , Saito Naoaki
Published: June 2014

To gain insight for the role of mast cell‐produced heparin in the regulation of epidermal homeostasis and skin pigmentation, we have investigated the effect of heparin on melanosome uptake and proinflammatory responses in normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs). We quantified phagocytic activity of NHEKs with uptake of melanosomes or fluorescent microspheres. Heparin exhibited the inhibitory effect on keratinocyte phagocytosis through blocking PI3k/Akt and MEK/ERK signaling pathways. In fact, the heparin‐treated NHEKs showed impaired activation of Akt and ERK during phagocytosis, whereas PI3k and MEK inhibitors significantly suppressed melanosome uptake by NHEKs. In addition, the inflammation marker cycloxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) expression and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production were induced during phagocytosis, while these effects were downregulated in the presence of heparin. Our observations suggest that heparin may play an antiphagocytic and anti‐inflammation role in epidermis of human skin.
Wheat cultivars selected for high Fv/Fmunder heat stress maintain high photosynthesis, total chlorophyll, stomatal conductance, transpiration and dry matter
Authors: Sharma Dew Kumari , Andersen Sven Bode , Ottosen Carl‐Otto , Rosenqvist Eva
Published: June 2014

The chlorophyll fluorescence parameter Fv/Fmreflects the maximum quantum efficiency of photosystemII(PSII) photochemistry and has been widely used for early stress detection in plants. Previously, we have used a three‐tiered approach of phenotyping by Fv/Fmto identify naturally existing genetic variation for tolerance to severe heat stress (3 days at 40°C in controlled conditions) in wheat (Triticum aestivumL.). Here we investigated the performance of the previously selected cultivars (high and low group based on Fv/Fmvalue) in terms of growth and photosynthetic traits under moderate heat stress (1 week at 36/30°C day/night temperature in greenhouse) closer to natural heat waves in North‐Western Europe. Dry matter accumulation after 7 days of heat stress was positively correlated to Fv/Fm. The high Fv/Fmgroup maintained significantly higher total chlorophyll and net photosynthetic rate (PN) than the low group, accompanied by higher stomatal conductance (gs), transpiration rate (E) and evaporative cooling of the leaf (ΔT). The difference inPNbetween the groups was not caused by differences inPSIIcapacity or gsas the variation in Fv/Fmand intracellularCO2(Ci) was non‐significant under the given heat stress. This study validated that our three‐tiered approach of phenotyping by Fv/Fmperformed under increasing severity of heat was successful in identifying wheat cultivars differing in photosynthesis under moderate and agronomically more relevant heat stress. The identified cultivars may serve as a valuable resource for further studies to understand the physiological mechanisms underlying the genetic variability in heat sensitivity of photosynthesis.
Thermal infrared imaging in psychophysiology: Potentialities and limits
Authors: Ioannou Stephanos , Gallese Vittorio , Merla Arcangelo
Published: June 2014

Functional infrared thermal imaging (fITI) is considered an upcoming, promising methodology in the emotional arena. Driven by sympathetic nerves, observations of affective nature derive from muscular activity subcutaneous blood flow as well as perspiration patterns in specific body parts. A review of 23 experimental procedures that employed fITI for investigations of affective nature is provided, along with the adopted experimental protocol and the thermal changes that took place on selected regions of interest in human and nonhuman subjects. Discussion is provided regarding the selection of an appropriate baseline, the autonomic nature of the thermal print, the experimental setup, methodological issues, limitations, and considerations, as well as future directions.
Thrombosis in the Uremic Milieu—Emerging Role of “Thrombolome”
Authors: Shashar Moshe , Francis Jean , Chitalia Vipul
Published: June 2014

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by retention of a number of toxins, which unleash cellular damage. CKD environment with these toxins and a host of metabolic abnormalities (collectively termed as uremic milieu) is highly thrombogenic. CKD represents a strong and independent risk factor for both spontaneous venous and arterial (postvascular injury) thrombosis. Emerging evidence points to a previously unrecognized role of some of the prothrombotic uremic toxins. Here, we provide an overview of thrombosis in CKD and an update on indolic uremic toxins, which robustly increase tissue factor, a potent procoagulant, in several vascular cell types enhancing thrombosis. This panel of uremic toxins, which we term “thrombolome” (thrombosis and metabolome), represents a novel risk factor for thrombosis and can be further explored as biomarker for postvascular interventional thrombosis in patients with CKD.
Prevalence of abnormal ECGs in male soccer players decreases with the Seattle criteria, but is still high
Authors: Berge H. M. , Gjesdal K. , Andersen T. E. , Solberg E. E. , Steine K.
Published: June 2014

Electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiography are mandatory in preparticipation cardiac screening in soccer players. Abnormal ECG findings usually require follow‐up investigations. The main aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of abnormal ECG findings in male professional soccer players according to European Society of Cardiology's (ESC) recommendations and the Seattle criteria, and to assess the need for echocardiography. ECGs from 587 of 595 (99%) players were recorded with ClickECG, and measurements were derived with visually adjusted on‐screen calipers on the computer‐based averaged PQRST complex. Echocardiographic recordings were performed with Vivid 7/i and categorized according to reference values for athlete's heart. After the initial screening, 32 (5.5%) players were recommended for follow‐up. The prevalence of abnormal ECGs was 29.3% vs 11.2% according to the ESC's recommendations and the Seattle criteria, respectively. None of the players with abnormal ECGs only according to the ESC's recommendations had abnormal echocardiograms. Echocardiography alone detected one player with abnormalities (athlete's heart). The Seattle criteria reduced the number of athletes with abnormal ECGs considerably compared with the ESC recommendations. Based on echocardiographic evaluations, this increased the specificity of the Seattle criteria, without increasing the number of false‐negative ECGs. The need for mandatory echocardiography in soccer players seems limited.
Evidenz und Expertise im vorparlamentarischen Gesetzgebungsprozess: Die Rolle von Verwaltung und externen Experten
Authors: Ledermann Simone
Published: June 2014

DerEvidence‐Based Policy‐Ansatz hat international Reformen ausgelöst und Studien zum Verhältnis von Wissen und Politik angestossen, wobei ein klares Verständnis von “Evidenz” nach wie vor fehlt. In diesem Artikel wird eine Typologie politikrelevanter Wissensarten entwickelt, die zwischen systematischer Evidenz und personengebundener Expertise sowie zwischen den PolitikdimensionenPolicy,PoliticsundPolityunterscheidet. Auf dieser konzeptionellen Grundlage wird empirisch erfasst, welches Wissen die Verwaltung und externe Experten während der bisher kaum untersuchten Frühphase von Gesetzgebungsverfahren auf Bundesebene beitragen. Es zeigt sich, dass die federführenden Verwaltungsakteure kaum über Expertise verfügen, die für den Gesetzgebungsprozess relevant wäre, doch versuchen sie, ihre Wissenslücken je nach Dimension unterschiedlich zu kompensieren. Externe Experten leisten einen bescheidenen Wissensbeitrag, weshalb ihre Beteiligung primär als Mittel für die politische Kompromissfindung verstanden werden muss. Dies eröffnet aus demokratietheoretischer Sicht Diskussionsbedarf.
HLA‐G gene polymorphisms associated with susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis disease and its severity in Brazilian patients
Authors: Catamo E. , Addobbati C. , Segat L. , Sotero Fragoso T. , Domingues Barbosa A. , Tavares Dantas A. , de Ataíde Mariz H. , F. da Rocha L. , Branco Pinto Duarte A. L. , Monasta L. , Sandrin‐Garcia P. , Crovella S.
Published: June 2014

We analyzed the possible association between human leukocyte antigen‐G (HLA‐G) genetic variants, supposed to regulate HLA‐G expression, and the susceptibility to develop rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as well as its clinical manifestations. The 5′upstream regulatory region (5′URR) and 3′untranslated region (3′UTR) regions of the HLA‐G gene were screened in 127 RA patients and 128 controls: 10 5′URR and 3 3′UTR HLA‐G polymorphisms as well as two haplotypes were associated with risk for RA development, while a polymorphism in the 5′URR showed an association with the degree of disease activity. These findings, although the number of cases analyzed is limited and the P‐values are modest, indicate a possible association between HLA‐G gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to develop RA disease and its severity.
Still No Guidance: Reply to Steglich‐Petersen
Authors: Glüer Kathrin , Wikforss Åsa
Published: June 2014

In a recent article in this journal, Asbjørn Steglich‐Petersen criticizes an argument we have called the “no‐guidance argument”. He claims that our argument fails because it (1) “presupposes a much too narrow understanding of what it takes for a norm to influence behaviour” and (2) “betrays a fundamental misunderstanding of the point of the truth norm” (Steglich‐Petersen, 2013, p. 279). If these claims could be substantiated, the no‐guidance argument would lose all interest. But Steglich‐Petersen's attempt at substantiating them fails. The suggested sense in which the truth norm can guide behaviour turns out to be too wide to be recognizable as an intuitive notion of norm guidance. Moreover, it remains unclear how the truth norm could possibly provide an answer to the question whether it – rather than some other, possible norm for belief – is valid.
Identification of a NAC transcription factor, EPHEMERAL1, that controls petal senescence in Japanese morning glory
Authors: Shibuya Kenichi , Shimizu Keiichi , Niki Tomoko , Ichimura Kazuo
Published: June 2014

In flowering plants, floral longevity is species‐specific and is closely linked to reproductive strategy; petal senescence, a type of programmed cell death (PCD), is a highly regulated developmental process. However, little is known about regulatory pathways for cell death in petal senescence, which is developmentally controlled in an age‐dependent manner. Here, we show that a NAC transcription factor, designated EPHEMERAL1 (EPH1), positively regulates PCD during petal senescence in the ephemeral flowers of Japanese morning glory (Ipomoea nil). EPH1 expression is induced independently of ethylene signaling, and suppression of EPH1 resulted in Japanese morning glory flowers that are in bloom until the second day. The suppressed expression of EPH1 delays progression of PCD, possibly through suppression of the expression of PCD‐related genes, including genes for plant caspase and autophagy in the petals. Our data further suggest that EPH1 is involved in the regulation of ethylene‐accelerated petal senescence. In this study, we identified a key regulator of PCD in petal senescence, which will facilitate further elucidation of the regulatory network of petal senescence.
Recurrent hemorrhage caused by type 3 von Willebrand disease in a domestic long‐haired cat
Authors: Bebar Kimberly N. , Sinnott Virginia , Brooks Marjory B.
Published: June 2014

Objective

To describe a case of spontaneous epistaxis in a cat with type 3 von Willebrand disease (VWD) and detail the successful management of hemorrhagic episodes on 2 occasions.

Case summary

A 3.6 kg, 1‐year‐old, female mixed‐breed domestic long‐haired cat presented for spontaneous epistaxis. Hemostasis testing at presentation revealed normal prothrombin and activated partial thromboplastin times, a slightly decreased platelet count of 168 × 109/L [168 × 103/μL] (reference interval 200–500 × 109/L [200–500 × 103/μL]) and prolonged buccal mucosal bleeding time of 168 seconds (reference interval <150 s). Specific activities of coagulation factors VIII, IX, XI, and XII were all within reference intervals. Plasma von Willebrand factor concentration, however, was markedly reduced at <0.1% of normal. These findings are compatible with a diagnosis of severe type 3 VWD. The initial occurrence of epistaxis resolved spontaneously soon after admission; however, the cat required a packed RBC transfusion for blood loss anemia. Desmopressin acetate was administered, but failed to arrest hemorrhage during a second episode of epistaxis 12 months later. The second episode was successfully controlled by transfusion of 6.7 mL/kg feline fresh frozen plasma.

New and unique information

This is the first description of severe type 3 VWD in a domestic cat and only the second report of VWD in this species. Unlike human beings and primates with type 3 VWD, the affected cat did not have a concomitant deficiency of coagulation factor VIII or consistent prolongation of activated partial thromboplastin time. Clinicians should therefore include VWD in the list of differentials for cats with signs of abnormal hemorrhage and confirm the diagnosis with specific measurement of plasma von Willebrand factor concentration.
Power Conserving Bond Graph Based Modal Representations and Model Reduction of Lumped Parameter Systems
Authors: Louca Loucas S.
Published: June 2014

Dynamic analysis is extensively used to study the behavior of continuous and lumped parameter linear systems. In addition to the physical space, analyses can also be performed in the modal space where very useful frequency information of the system can be extracted. More specifically, modal analysis can be used for the analysis and controller design of dynamic systems, where reduction of model complexity without degrading its accuracy is often required. The reduction of modal models has been extensively studied and many reduction techniques are available. The majority of these techniques use frequency as the metric to determine the reduced model. This paper describes a new method for calculating modal decompositions of lumped parameter systems with the use of the bond graph formulation. The modal decomposition is developed through a power conserving coordinate transformation. The generated modal decomposition model is then used as the basis for reducing its size and complexity. The model reduction approach is based on the previously developed model order reduction algorithm (MORA), which uses the energy-based activity metric in order to generate a series of reduced models. The activity metric was originally developed for the generic case of nonlinear systems; however, in this work, the activity metric is adapted for the case of linear systems with single harmonic excitation. In this case closed form expressions are derived for the calculation of activity. An example is provided to demonstrate the power conserving transformation, calculation of the modal power and the elimination of unimportant modes or modal elements.