bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA-126–mediated control of cell fate in B-cell myeloid progenitors as a potential alternative to transcriptional factors
Authors: Okuyama Kazuki , Ikawa Tomokatsu , Gentner Bernhard , Hozumi Katsuto , Harnprasopwat Ratanakanit , Lu Jun , Yamashita Riu , Ha Daon , Toyoshima Takae , Chanda Bidisha , Kawamata Toyotaka , Yokoyama Kazuaki , Wang Shusheng , Ando Kiyoshi , Lodish Harvey F. , Tojo Arinobu , Kawamoto Hiroshi , Kotani Ai
Published: July 2013

Lineage specification is thought to be largely regulated at the level of transcription, where lineage-specific transcription factors drive specific cell fates. MicroRNAs (miR), vital to many cell functions, act posttranscriptionally to decrease the expression of target mRNAs. MLL-AF4 acute lymphocytic leukemia exhibits both myeloid and B-cell surface markers, suggesting that the transformed cells are B-cell myeloid progenitor cells. Through gain- and loss-of-function experiments, we demonstrated that microRNA 126 (miR-126) drives B-cell myeloid biphenotypic leukemia differentiation toward B cells without changing expression of E2A immunoglobulin enhancer-binding factor E12/E47 (E2A), early B-cell factor 1 (EBF1), or paired box protein 5, which are critical transcription factors in B-lymphopoiesis. Similar induction of B-cell differentiation by miR-126 was observed in normal hematopoietic cells in vitro and in vivo in uncommitted murine c-Kit
+
Sca1
+
Lineage
−
cells, with insulin regulatory subunit-1 acting as a target of miR-126. Importantly, in EBF1-deficient hematopoietic progenitor cells, which fail to differentiate into B cells, miR-126 significantly up-regulated B220, and induced the expression of B-cell genes, including recombination activating genes-1/2 and CD79a/b. These data suggest that miR-126 can at least partly rescue B-cell development independently of EBF1. These experiments show that miR-126 regulates myeloid vs. B-cell fate through an alternative machinery, establishing the critical role of miRNAs in the lineage specification of multipotent mammalian cells.
The Risk of Bloodstream Infection Associated with Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters Compared with Central Venous Catheters in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chopra Vineet , O'Horo John C. , Rogers Mary A. M. , Maki Dennis G. , Safdar Nasia
Published: July 2013

Background.

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are associated with central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI). The magnitude of this risk relative to central venous catheters (CVCs) is unknown.

Objective.

To compare risk of CLABSI between PICCs and CVCs.

Methods

MEDLINE, CinAHL, Scopus, EmBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched. Full-text studies comparing the risk of CLABSI between PICCs and CVCs were included. Studies involving adults 18 years of age or older who underwent insertion of a PICC or a CVC and reported CLABSI were included in our analysis. Studies were evaluated using the Downs and Black scale for risk of bias. Random effects meta-analyses were used to generate summary estimates of CLABSI risk in patients with PICCs versus CVCs.

Results.

Of 1,185 studies identified, 23 studies involving 57,250 patients met eligibility criteria. Twenty of 23 eligible studies reported the total number of CLABSI episodes in patients with PICCs and CVCs. Pooled meta-analyses of these studies revealed that PICCs were associated with a lower risk of CLABSI than were CVCs (relative risk [RR], 0.62; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.40-0.94). Statistical heterogeneity prompted subgroup analysis, which demonstrated that CLABSI reduction was greatest in outpatients (RR [95% CI], 0.22 [0.18-0.27]) compared with hospitalized patients who received PICCs (RR [95% CI], 0.73 [0.54-0.98]). Thirteen of the included 23 studies reported CLABSI per catheter-day. Within these studies, PICC-related CLABSI occurred as frequently as CLABSI from CVCs (incidence rate ratio [95% CI], 0.91 [0.46-1.79]).

Limitations.

Only 1 randomized trial met inclusion criteria. CLABSI definition and infection prevention strategies were variably reported. Few studies reported infections by catheter-days.

Conclusions.

Although PICCs are associated with a lower risk of CLABSI than CVCs in outpatients, hospitalized patients may be just as likely to experience CLABSI with PICCs as with CVCs. Consideration of risks and benefits before PICC use in inpatient settings is warranted.
mpMoRFsDB: a database of molecular recognition features in membrane proteins
Authors: Gypas Foivos , Tsaousis Georgios N. , Hamodrakas Stavros J.
Published: July 2013

Summary: Molecular recognition features (MoRFs) are small, intrinsically disordered regions in proteins that undergo a disorder-to-order transition on binding to their partners. MoRFs are involved in protein–protein interactions and may function as the initial step in molecular recognition. The aim of this work was to collect, organize and store all membrane proteins that contain MoRFs. Membrane proteins constitute ∼30% of fully sequenced proteomes and are responsible for a wide variety of cellular functions. MoRFs were classified according to their secondary structure, after interacting with their partners. We identified MoRFs in transmembrane and peripheral membrane proteins. The position of transmembrane protein MoRFs was determined in relation to a protein’s topology. All information was stored in a publicly available mySQL database with a user-friendly web interface. A Jmol applet is integrated for visualization of the structures. mpMoRFsDB provides valuable information related to disorder-based protein–protein interactions in membrane proteins.

Availability:  http://bioinformatics.biol.uoa.gr/mpMoRFsDB

Contact:  shamodr@biol.uoa.gr
Robotic Guidance for S2-Alar-Iliac Screws in Spinal Deformity Correction
Authors: Bederman S. Samuel , Hahn Peter , Colin Vincent , Kiester P. Douglas , Bhatia Nitin N.
Published: July 2013

Study Design:

A retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent S2-alar-iliac (S2AI) screw insertion using robotic guidance in long constructs for spinal deformity correction extending to the sacrum performed at a single institution.

Objective:

To assess and evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of robotic guidance for S2AI screw insertion.

Summary of Background Data:

Pelvic fixation has become a common adjunct to long fusions extending to the sacrum. The S2AI method possesses advantages over the traditional Galveston technique. S2AI involves finding a pathway from S2 across the sacral ala and the sacroiliac joint into the ilium. Robotic guidance is a new modality for implant insertion that has shown high accuracy.

Methods:

We identified all patients who underwent robotic-guided S2AI screw insertion in long constructs extending to the sacrum. Cortical breaches and protrusions, assessed on postoperative imaging, and complications were recorded.

Results:

Fourteen patients (31 screws) underwent S2AI screw insertion using robotic guidance and free-hand probing. Average screw length was 80 mm (range, 65–90 mm). All trajectories were confirmed as accurate (no proximal breaches). Screw insertion, performed manually, resulted in 10 protrusions <2 mm, 1 by 2–4 mm, and 6 by ≥4 mm. No screw was intrapelvic or risked any visceral or neurovascular structures and none required removal or revision. Longer screws (>80 mm) were associated with distal protrusion.

Conclusions:

Robotic-guided S2AI screws are accurate and a feasible option. Although no complications from protrusion were identified, larger studies and instrumentation modifications are required to assess the clinical acceptance of robotic guidance in sacropelvic fixation.
Sumoylation at chromatin governs coordinated repression of a transcriptional program essential for cell growth and proliferation
Authors: Neyret-Kahn Hélène , Benhamed Moussa , Ye Tao , Le Gras Stéphanie , Cossec Jack-Christophe , Lapaquette Pierre , Bischof Oliver , Ouspenskaia Maia , Dasso Mary , Seeler Jacob , Davidson Irwin , Dejean Anne
Published: July 2013

Despite numerous studies on specific sumoylated transcriptional regulators, the global role of SUMO on chromatin in relation to transcription regulation remains largely unknown. Here, we determined the genome-wide localization of SUMO1 and SUMO2/3, as well as of UBC9 (encoded by UBE2I) and PIASY (encoded by PIAS4), two markers for active sumoylation, along with Pol II and histone marks in proliferating versus senescent human fibroblasts together with gene expression profiling. We found that, whereas SUMO alone is widely distributed over the genome with strong association at active promoters, active sumoylation occurs most prominently at promoters of histone and protein biogenesis genes, as well as Pol I rRNAs and Pol III tRNAs. Remarkably, these four classes of genes are up-regulated by inhibition of sumoylation, indicating that SUMO normally acts to restrain their expression. In line with this finding, sumoylation-deficient cells show an increase in both cell size and global protein levels. Strikingly, we found that in senescent cells, the SUMO machinery is selectively retained at histone and tRNA gene clusters, whereas it is massively released from all other unique chromatin regions. These data, which reveal the highly dynamic nature of the SUMO landscape, suggest that maintenance of a repressive environment at histone and tRNA loci is a hallmark of the senescent state. The approach taken in our study thus permitted the identification of a common biological output and uncovered hitherto unknown functions for active sumoylation at chromatin as a key mechanism that, in dynamically marking chromatin by a simple modifier, orchestrates concerted transcriptional regulation of a network of genes essential for cell growth and proliferation.
The Identification of Two Arabinosyltransferases from Tomato Reveals Functional Equivalency of Xyloglucan Side Chain Substituents
Authors: Schultink Alex , Cheng Kun , Park Yong Bum , Cosgrove Daniel J. , Pauly Markus
Published: July 2013

Xyloglucan (XyG) is the dominant hemicellulose present in the primary cell walls of dicotyledonous plants. Unlike Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) XyG, which contains galactosyl and fucosyl substituents, tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) XyG contains arabinofuranosyl residues. To investigate the biological function of these differing substituents, we used a functional complementation approach. Candidate glycosyltransferases were identified from tomato by using comparative genomics with known XyG galactosyltransferase genes from Arabidopsis. These candidate genes were expressed in an Arabidopsis mutant lacking XyG galactosylation, and two of them resulted in the production of arabinosylated XyG, a structure not previously found in this plant species. These genes may therefore encode XyG arabinofuranosyltransferases. Moreover, the addition of arabinofuranosyl residues to the XyG of this Arabidopsis mutant rescued a growth and cell wall biomechanics phenotype, demonstrating that the function of XyG in plant growth, development, and mechanics has considerable flexibility in terms of the specific residues in the side chains. These experiments also highlight the potential of reengineering the sugar substituents on plant wall polysaccharides without compromising growth or viability.
Aphid performance and population development on their host plants is affected by weed–crop interactions
Authors: Dahlin Iris , Ninkovic Velemir
Published: July 2013

Some farming practices, like organic farming, lead to greater numbers of weed plants in crop fields. These fields may give us some insights into any benefits that may be gained from biodiversity (e.g. improved pest control services) and allow us to understand the mechanisms behind crop–weed interactions.

The influence of two common weeds, lamb's‐quarters Chenopodium album and charlock Sinapis arvensis, on performance of the bird cherry‐oat aphid Rhopalosiphum padi in spring‐sown barley Hordeum vulgare is evaluated in three field experiments. Observations in field experiments indicated that the presence of S. arvensis reduced aphid population development in the barley crop significantly, but this effect was not observed in barley grown with C. album.

Observed effects in the field were further studied in laboratory experiments with regard to aphid growth and reproductive performance. Above‐ and below‐ground interactions of S. arvensis and C. album with barley were tested using twin‐exposure cages. Aphid performance was negatively affected when barley plants had root contact with S. arvensis. The results of these laboratory experiments showed a difference in mode of action of the two weeds.

Synthesis and applications. The results support the potential of associated resistance, mediated by neighbouring plants, in minimizing herbivore damage of focal plants and highlighted the mechanism by which herbivores might be affected. Since chemical exchange between plant neighbours can potentially occur in any plant community, increased understanding could be valuable for existing and new agroecosystems, invasion biology and sustainable crop production. To get a balance between herbicide and insecticide control, agricultural production systems need to focus on the thresholds of weed and insect tolerance, taking the associated resistance of biodiversity (here weeds) into account. Agricultural biodiversity may provide many long‐term benefits over monoculture, from reducing pesticide pollution to preventing insecticide resistance. Our study is an important step forward in general understanding of the effects of vegetational diversity on herbivore population dynamics.
Greener pastures? High‐density feeding aggregations of green turtles precipitate species shifts in seagrass meadows
Authors: Kelkar Nachiket , Arthur Rohan , Marbà Núria , Alcoverro Teresa
Published: July 2013

Historical declines of marine megaherbivores have led to a view of seagrass communities structured largely by abiotic disturbance and plant competition. There is, however, growing recognition of the significance of top‐down control through herbivory, on seagrass ecosystem processes, raising the question of how meadows functioned under historically high populations of megaherbivores.

We assess the impacts of such intense herbivory on seagrass meadow composition in the Lakshadweep islands (India), where high‐density feeding aggregations of green turtles have persisted for over a decade. We use a series of complementary approaches: (i) natural herbivory exclosures (ii) published data on seagrass composition before and after turtles established (at one atoll: Agatti) and (iii) present species composition along a turtle herbivory gradient over multiple atolls.

Long‐term natural exclosures in Agatti indicated that sustained turtle grazing caused clear shifts in species dominance from the long‐lived, higher‐successional Thalassia hemprichii to the relatively short‐lived, pioneering species Cymodocea rotundata (dominant in grazed areas). T. hemprichii was the dominant species c. 20 years ago but is now restricted to areas within exclosures in Agatti, and to the least grazed meadows (<5%) in other atolls.

We conducted field experiments to identify possible mechanisms by which herbivory mediated direct or apparent competitive interactions between seagrass species. To verify if grazing reduced growth rates of T. hemprichii in comparison with C. rotundata, we conducted clipping experiments in 1m2 plots, simulating turtle herbivory on equal shoot proportions of both species. After 4 months, T. hemprichii shoot density showed major declines in clipped vs. control plots, but C. rotundata shoot density remained relatively unaffected.

To test whether selective grazing on T. hemprichii facilitated C. rotundata, we established paired seagrass preference experiments. Turtles had clear preferences for T. hemprichii (64%), but also grazed on C. rotundata.

Synthesis. Taken together, our results show that high‐impact turtle herbivory changes seagrass composition, precipitating dominance shifts in grazed meadows by mediating direct and apparent competition. Given the crucial role of megaherbivores in seagrass meadow functioning, our results suggest that past meadows may have had natural functional limits to megaherbivore densities that they could sustainably support.
Fine root biomass and dynamics in beech forests across a precipitation gradient – is optimal resource partitioning theory applicable to water‐limited mature trees?
Authors: Hertel Dietrich , Strecker Tanja , Müller‐Haubold Hilmar , Leuschner Christoph
Published: July 2013

Optimal resource partitioning theory predicts that plants should increase the ratio between water absorbing and transpiring surfaces under short water supply. An increase in fine root mass and surface area relative to leaf area has frequently been found in herbaceous plants, but supporting evidence from mature trees is scarce and several results are contradictory.

In 12 mature Fagus sylvatica forests across a precipitation gradient (820–540 mm yr−1), we tested several predictions of the theory by analysing the dependence of standing fine root biomass, fine root production and fine root morphology on mean annual precipitation (MAP), the precipitation of the study year, and stand structural and edaphic variables. The water storage capacity of the soil (WSC) was included as a covariable by comparing pairs of stands on sandy (lower WSC) and loam‐richer soils (higher WSC).

Fine root biomass, total fine root surface area, fine root production and the fine root : leaf biomass production ratio markedly increased with reduced MAP and precipitation in the study year, while WSC was only a secondary factor and stand structure had no effect.

The precipitation effect on fine root biomass and production was more pronounced in stands on sandy soil with lower WSC, which had, at equal precipitation, a higher fine root biomass and productivity than stands on loam‐richer soil.

The high degree of allocational plasticity in mature F. sylvatica trees contrasts with a low morphological plasticity of the fine roots. On the more extreme sandy soils, a significant decrease in mean fine root diameter and increase in specific root area with decreasing precipitation were found; a similar effect was absent on the loam‐richer soils.

Synthesis. In support of optimal partitioning theory, mature Fagus sylvatica trees showed a remarkable allocational plasticity as a long‐term response to significant precipitation reduction with a large increase in the size and productivity of the fine root system, while only minor adaptive modifications occurred in root morphology. More severe summer droughts in a future warmer climate may substantially alter the above‐/below‐ground C partitioning of this tree species with major implications for the forest C cycle.
Licit Narcotics Production in Australia: Legal Geographies Nomospheric and Topological
Authors: WILLIAMS STEWART
Published: July 2013

Licit narcotics production in Australia is based on the cultivation of a poppy crop restricted to Tasmania under local, national, and international regulation. Its legal geographical analysis is advanced by drawing on the thinking about ‘the nomosphere’ and ‘topology’ developed by David Delaney and John Allen, respectively. Australia continues to lead global production of licit narcotics as distinct new entities, relationships, and capacities have been enabled by differentiating between the constituent alkaloids morphine and thebaine with a loophole identified in US legislation of the 80/20 rule. Nomospheric and topological lenses are used to focus on the intensive, emergent qualities of the industry in addition to the traditional topography revealed in its scalar, networked territorialisation. A renewed understanding of the spatial workings and power plays relevant can inform possible transformation around narcotics production.
Correlation between visual acuity and interface reflectivity measured by pentacam following DSAEK
Authors: Heinzelmann Sonja , Böhringer Daniel , Maier Philip C. , Reinhard Thomas
Published: July 2013

Purpose:  Descemet‐stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) is an advanced method of lamellar endothelial keratoplasty. In comparison with penetrating keratoplasty, visual rehabilitation seems to be faster. Final visual outcome of DSAEK, however, seems to be limited, especially in comparison with Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK). DSAEK cases without graft failure often do not show any definite correlate for the reduced optical performance. In this study, we tried to correlate visual acuity following DSAEK with interface reflectivity as measured by a rotating Scheimpflug system.

Methods:  We examined 14 eyes of 13 patients with the pentacam for 2–11 months following DSAEK. Reflectivity of the interface region in the centre of the optical axis as well as central corneal thickness was determined. Statistical correlation between interface reflectivity and best spectacle‐corrected visual acuity, central corneal thickness and follow‐up time was drawn (multifactorial linear regression analysis).

Results:  Statistically significant correlation between interface reflectivity and BSCVA as well as follow‐up time was found. Reflectivity was highest in regions of interface (metal) particles. There was no statistically significant correlation between interface reflectivity and central corneal thickness.

Conclusion:  We present a measurable correlate for reduced visual outcome following DSAEK despite a clear graft. Inverse correlation between interface reflectivity and best spectacle‐corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) indicates that irregularities or scarring in the interface region may influence the optical quality following DSAEK.
Survival of multiple myeloma patients in the era of novel therapies confirms the improvement in patients younger than 75 years: a population‐based analysis
Authors: Pozzi Samantha , Marcheselli Luigi , Bari Alessia , Liardo Eliana V. , Marcheselli Raffaella , Luminari Stefano , Quaresima Micol , Cirilli Claudia , Ferri Paola , Federico Massimo , Sacchi Stefano
Published: July 2013

Novel treatments for multiple myeloma (MM) have shown promising results in clinical trials, but the advantage in unselected patients is still unclear. In order to evaluate whether novel therapies impact survival of MM patients, we performed a population‐based analysis on data collected by the Modena Cancer Registry from 1989 to 2009. The analysis evaluated 1206 newly diagnosed MM patients collected in the years 1988–96 (conventional therapy), 1997–05 (high dose melphalan and autologous transplant), and 2006–09 (novel agents era). Both relative survival (RS) and overall survival (OS) improved over the years, but not equally in the three groups. For patients aged <65 years, RS improved in 1997–05 and 2006–09 compared with previous years and a trend to improvement was observed from 1997–05 to 2006–09. For patients aged 65–74 years, RS improved significantly in 2006–09 compared with 1988–96 and 1997–05. No amelioration was observed for patients 75+ years old. OS confirmed RS. In conclusion, the survival of MM patients aged <65 and, in particular, 65–74 years, has improved over time, especially after 2006. This observation provides circumstantial evidence that novel therapies might impact patient survival. Despite the limits of this study, these data refer to an unselected population, giving a picture of every day clinical practice.
Predictive factors for worse pathological outcomes of upper tract urothelial carcinoma: experience from a nationwide high‐volume centre in China
Authors: Chen Xiao‐Peng , Xiong Geng‐Yan , Li Xue‐Song , Matin Surena F. , Garcia Maurice , Fang Dong , Wang Tian‐Yu , Yu Wei , Gong Kan , Song Yi , He Zhi‐Song , He Qun , Zhou Li‐Qun
Published: July 2013

Objectives

To analyse the predictive factors for worse pathological outcome (muscle invasive pT2+, non‐organ‐confined pT3+ or N+ and histological Grade 3) of upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) in a Chinese population from a nationwide high‐volume centre in China.

Patients and Methods

Predictors were studied by retrospectively reviewing the clinicopathological data of 729 consecutive patients with UTUC treated in our centre from January 2002 to December 2010.

Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used.

Results

There were more female patients (56.4%) than males and more tumours were located in the ureter (52.7%) than in the pelvis.

In multivariate analysis, male gender (hazard ratio [HR] 1.898, P = 0.001), sessile architecture (HR 3.249, P < 0.001), high grade (HR 5.007, P < 0.001), ipsilateral hydronephrosis (HR 4.768, P < 0.001), renal pelvis location (HR 2.620, P < 0.001) and tumour without multifocality (HR 1.639, P = 0.028) were predictive factors for muscle‐invasive UTUC.

Male gender (HR 2.132, P < 0.001), renal pelvis location (HR 3.466, P < 0.001), tumour without multifocality (HR 2.532, P = 0.001), sessile tumour architecture (HR 3.274, P < 0.001), and high grade (HR 3.019, P < 0.001) were predictive factors for non‐organ‐confined disease.

Chronological old age (HR 1.047, P < 0.001), sessile tumour architecture (HR 25.192, P < 0.001), ipsilateral hydronephrosis (HR 1.689, P = 0.024), and positive urinary cytology (HR 1.997, P = 0.006) were predictive factors for histological Grade 3 UTUC.

Conclusions

There was a predominance of female patients and ureteric tumours in UTUCs of this Chinese population.

Male gender, sessile architecture, tumour location, tumour without multifocality, high histological grade and preoperative ipsilateral hydronephrosis were independent predictive factors for worse pathological outcome of UTUCs.
Risk of in‐hospital complications after radical cystectomy for urinary bladder carcinoma: population‐based follow‐up study of 7608 patients
Authors: van Hemelrijck Mieke , Thorstenson Andreas , Smith Philip , Adolfsson Jan , Akre Olof
Published: July 2013

Objective

To evaluate the risk of different in‐hospital complications for patients undergoing a radical cystectomy (RC), as limited nationwide population data on short‐ and long‐term complications after RC is available, despite it being the standard treatment for localised muscle‐invasive urinary bladder cancer (UBC).

Patients and Methods

In all, 7608 persons underwent a RC after UBC diagnosis, as registered in the Swedish National Patient Register between 1964 and 2008.

We estimated the frequency and incidences and calculated hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using multivariate Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

Urinary tract infection/septicaemia was the most common complication following radical cystectomy, with an incidence of 90.4 per 1,000 person years.

There was a higher risk of urinary tract infection among patients who had a continent cutaneous reservoir (HR: 1.11 (0.94–1.30) or orthotopic neobladder 1.21 (1.05–1.39) than among those with ileal conduit.

Similarly, continent cutaneous reservoir and orthotopic neobladder were associated with increased risks for wound and abdominal wall hernias, stones in the urinary tract, hydronephrosis and nephrostomy tube treatment, and kidney failure.

In contrast, risk of bowel obstruction was lower among those with orthotopic neobladder than those with ileal conduit (HR: 0.64 (0.50–0.81)) and those with continent cutaneous reservoir (HR: 0.92 (0.73–1.16).

Conclusions

In‐hospital complications after RC are numerous and continue to accumulate for many years after surgery, indicating the need for life‐long follow‐up of these patients.

Comparison between different types of diversion should, however, be made with care because of potential confounding by indication.
The association of preoperative serum albumin level and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score on early complications and survival of patients undergoing radical cystectomy for urothelial bladder cancer
Authors: Djaladat Hooman , Bruins Harman Maxim , Miranda Gus , Cai Jie , Skinner Eila C. , Daneshmand Siamak
Published: July 2013

Objective

To evaluate the impact of the preoperative American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score and serum albumin level on complications, recurrences and survival rates of patients who underwent radical cystectomy (RC) for urothelial bladder cancer (UBC).

Patients and Methods

In all, 1964 patients underwent RC for UBC at our institution between 1971 and 2008.

Preoperative serum albumin and ASA score were available in 1471 and 1140 patients, respectively.

A complication was defined as any surgery related/unrelated event leading to lengthening hospital stay or re‐admission.

Endpoints were 90‐day complication (90dC) rate, recurrence‐free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results

The median (range) follow‐up was 12.4 (0.2–27.3) years. In all, 197 patients (13.4%) had a low albumin level (<3.5 g/dL) and 740 (64.8%) had a high ASA score (3 or 4).

Low serum albumin and a high ASA score were associated with higher 90dC rate (42% vs 34%, P = 0.03 and 40% vs 28%, P < 0.001, respectively).

On multiple logistic regression analysis, a high ASA score remained independently associated with increased 90dC rate (hazard ratio [HR] 1.52, P = 0.005) and decreased OS (HR 1.45, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13–1.86). A low serum albumin level was also independently associated with RFS (HR 1.68, 95% CI 1.16–2.43) and OS (HR 1.93, 95% CI 1.43–2.63).

Conclusion

A low serum albumin level was independently associated with cancer recurrence and decreased OS after RC.

A high ASA score was also independently associated with decreased OS.

These parameters potentially could be used as prognosticators after RC.
Categorization of fragrance contact allergens for prioritization of preventive measures: clinical and experimental data and consideration of structure–activity relationships
Authors: Uter Wolfgang , Johansen Jeanne D. , Börje Anna , Karlberg Ann‐Therese , Lidén Carola , Rastogi Suresh , Roberts David , White Ian R.
Published: July 2013

Contact allergy to fragrances is still relatively common, affecting ∼ 16% of patients patch tested for suspected allergic contact dermatitis, considering all current screening allergens. The objective of the review is to systematically retrieve, evaluate and classify evidence on contact allergy to fragrances, in order to arrive at recommendations for targeting of primary and secondary prevention. Besides published evidence on contact allergy in humans, animal data (local lymph node assay), annual use volumes and structure–activity relationships (SARs) were considered for an algorithmic categorization of substances as contact allergens. A total of 54 individual chemicals and 28 natural extracts (essential oils) can be categorized as established contact allergens in humans, including all 26 substances previously identified as contact allergens (SCCNFP/0017/98). Twelve of the 54 individual chemicals are considered to be of special concern, owing to the high absolute number of reported cases of contact allergy (> 100). Additionally, 18 single substances and one natural mixture are categorized as established contact allergens in animals.SARs, combined with limited human evidence, contributed to the categorization of a further 26 substances as likely contact allergens. In conclusion, the presence of 127 single fragrance substances and natural mixtures should, owing to their skin sensitizing properties, be disclosed, for example on the label. As an additional preventive measure, the maximum use concentration of 11 substances of special concern should be limited to 100 ppm. The substance hydroxyisohexyl 3‐cyclohexene carboxaldehyde and the two ingredients chloroatranol and atranol in the natural extractsEvernia prunastriandEvernia furfuraceashould not be present in cosmetic products.
Beyond the Artery and Ventricle – An Aneurysm of the Mitral Valve Leaflet
Authors: Edwards Nicola C. , Smith Nicola L. , Steeds Richard P.
Published: July 2013

Mini‐Abstract

Mitral valve leaflets aneurysms (MVLA) are a rare complication of aortic valve endocarditis and connective tissue disorders. They must be differentiated from other mitral valve abnormalities and subsequently followed by surveillance imaging due to the risk of progressive expansion and rupture leading to acute mitral regurgitation, even after successful treatment of endocarditis. We report a case of MVLA complicating staph aureus endocarditis in which three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) improved localization and identification as compared with two‐dimensional TEE.
The Effect of Different Circadian Blood Pressure Rhythms on Left Ventricular Systolic Dyssynchrony in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Essential Hypertension
Authors: Turak Osman , Özcan Firat , Kadife İskender , İşleyen Ahmet , Cebeci Muhammet , Başar Fatma Nurcan , Selçuk Mehmet Timur , Gölbaşi Zehra , Aras Dursun , Aydoğdu Sinan
Published: July 2013

Objectives

Left ventricular (LV) synchronous contraction is impaired in patients with hypertension (HT). The deleterious effects of HT on cardiovascular system are more evident in patients with nondipper HT than dippers. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of nondipping HT on LV systolic synchronicity compared with dippers and controls.

Methods

One hundred patients with newly diagnosed essential HT and 50 normotensive subjects were enrolled in this study. The hypertensive patients were assigned 2 groups comprising 55 dippers and 45 nondippers. Each subject underwent a comprehensive transthoracic echocardiographic examination. The evaluation of systolic dyssynchrony was performed by tissue synchronization imaging, and the time to regional peak systolic tissue velocity (Ts) in LV was measured on the basis of 12 segmental models. The standard deviation (SD) of the 12 LV segments (Ts‐SD‐12) and maximal difference in Ts between any two of the 12 LV segments (Ts‐12) were calculated.

Results

Compared with the control group, the synchronicity indexes were significantly prolonged in the hypertensive patients. Furthermore, Ts‐SD‐12 and Ts‐12 values were found to be significantly impaired in patients with nondipper HT, compared with dippers: Ts‐SD‐12 (38.1 ± 18.7 vs. 31.8 ± 15.4, P ≤ 0.001); Ts‐12 (123.0 ± 50.6 vs. 98.4 ± 42.3, P ≤ 0.001). Stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed a significant negative association between LV dyssynchrony indices and percentage decline in BP level from day to night.

Conclusion

Synchronous systolic contraction of LV is found to be significantly impaired in patients with nondipping circadian pattern of HT compared with dippers and the controls.
Evaluation of Coronary Steal in Myocardium Supplied by Coronary Collaterals: The Role of Speckle Tracking Analysis in Resting and Stress Echocardiography
Authors: Liu Kan , Krone Ronald
Published: July 2013

Coronary steal could develop in patients with chronic coronary artery disease (CAD) with collateral circulation, and adversely affect ventricular function and long‐term clinical outcome. Poorly developed collaterals are more prone than well‐developed collaterals to withdrawing their blood support to the collateralized myocardium due to higher collateral pathway resistance and lower vasodilatory reserve of the collateral bed. Even with well‐developed coronary collaterals, coronary steal could still occur when perfusion pressure in the donor artery becomes low, or the recipient microvasculature is maximally dilated with exhaustion of vasodilatory reserve. The evaluation of distinctive coronary collateral function with or without steal provides important therapeutic and prognostic information in patients with chronic CAD. However, due to lack of reliable assessment methods, the detection and quantitative measurement of coronary steal remains a challenge. In this article, we present typical clinical scenarios to illustrate the major mechanisms underlying coronary steal in patients with chronic CAD and coronary collateral circulation, and review invasive and noninvasive methods currently available to assess coronary steal in myocardium supplied by coronary collaterals. We specifically focus on recent advances in the resting and stress echocardiography with speckle tracking techniques.
Submitral Aneurysm – Echocardiographic Images
Authors: Raut Monish S. , Maheshwari Arun , Dube Sumir , Nautiyal Pooja
Published: July 2013

Mini‐Abstract

Submitral aneurysm is rare condition. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiogram revealed single large irregular submitral aneurysm communicating with left ventricular cavity through a neck of size 1.3 cm. Posterior mitral leaflet was small and tethered and anterior mitral leaflet was normal. Severe mitral regurgitation was seen due to noncoaptation of mitral valve leaflets. Mitral valve replacement and subvalvular aneurysm repair was done. Postoperative transesophageal echocardiogram suggested no communication of aneurysm with left atrium or left ventricle.
An assessment of intra‐ and interobserver agreement of reporting orthopaedic findings on presale radiographs ofThoroughbred yearlings
Authors: Jackson M. A. , Vizard A. L. , Anderson G. A. , Mattoon J. S. , Lavelle R. B. , Smithenson B. T. , Lester N. V. , Clarke A. F. , Whitton R. C.
Published: July 2013

Reasons for performing study

Radiography is commonly used in clinical practice but agreement of reporting of radiographically detected orthopaedic findings in horses has rarely been studied.

Objectives

To assess agreement within and between observers for reporting of orthopaedic findings on presale radiographs ofThoroughbred yearlings.

Study design

Retrospective analysis of archived radiographs.

Methods

Four veterinary radiology specialists each twice examined 167 sets of radiographs for orthopaedic findings in the fore feet, fore and hind fetlocks, carpi, tarsi and stifles. There were 27 findings analysed for agreement. Kappa statistic (κ), percentage of positive agreement (Ppos) and percentage of negative agreement are reported.

Results

An excellent percentage of negative agreement was observed for all findings, with the exception of regular vascular channels of the proximal sesamoid bones.Ppos and κ results were variable. The presence of extra carpal bones, osseous cyst‐like lesions of the ulnar carpal bone, sagittal ridge defects of the third metacarpus, fracture of the fore and hind proximal sesamoid bones, regular vascular channels in the hind proximal sesamoids, osteochondrosis lesions of the distal intermediate ridge and/or medial malleoli of the tibia, and osseous cyst‐like lesions in the medial femoral condyle was consistently observed with an intra‐ and interagreement κ≥0.5 andPpos≥50%. Lucency within the proximal sesamoids consistently had an observed intra‐ and interagreement κ<0.4 andPpos<40%.

Conclusions

Observation of orthopaedic findings on yearling repository radiographs showed generally excellent agreement on the absence of findings, but variable agreement on the presence of findings. Agreement was good for larger and easy to categorise radiographic findings. More accurate definitions and training need to be developed to improve agreement within and between observers for orthopaedic findings with poor or fair to good agreement.
Development of a fatigue crack growth testing apparatus and its application to thin titanium foil
Authors: Lee C.‐W. , Liu L. , Holmes J. W.
Published: July 2013

A low‐cost experimental apparatus has been developed to investigate the mode I fatigue crack growth behaviour of thin metallic foils and sheets. The apparatus utilizes magnetic coupling between a ceramic magnet and a rotating steel disc to induce cyclic tensile loads in notched rectangular specimens. To illustrate the testing apparatus, mode I fatigue crack growth in 30‐µm‐thick high‐purity titanium foils was studied. Experiments were performed at ambient temperature using a loading frequency of 2 Hz and a nominal stress ratio of 0.1. The cyclic crack growth data could be fit to a Paris relationship between crack growth rate and stress intensity range. The stress intensity factor exponent, m, in the Paris relationship was between 4 and 6, which is comparable with the relatively high values found in the literature for the tension–tension fatigue of other metallic bulk materials. Incomplete self‐similarity analysis was used to explain the observed higher m values for thin metallic foils.
Cystic partially regressed clear cell renal cell carcinoma: a potential mimic of multilocular cystic renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Williamson Sean R , MacLennan Gregory T , Lopez‐Beltran Antonio , Montironi Rodolfo , Tan Puay Hoon , Martignoni Guido , Grignon David J , Eble John N , Idrees Muhammad T , Scarpelli Marina , Cheng Liang
Published: July 2013

Aims

To study clear cell renal cell carcinomas with predominant cystic and sclerotic components, in which a solid epithelial component precluded a diagnosis of multilocular cystic renal cell carcinoma. We designated these tumours ‘cystic partially regressed clear cell renal cell carcinoma.’

Methods and results

Twenty‐seven tumours were studied, from patients with a median age of 58 years; the stage was most often pT1 (89%). The Fuhrman grade was 2 (48%), 1 (33%), or 3 (19%). The solid epithelial component constituted up to 30% of the tumour volume (median, 10%), whereas the cystic component constituted 15–80% (median, 65%), and the sclerotic component 10–70% (median, 20%). Thin fibrovascular septa lined by cells with clear cytoplasm were almost always present, resembling multilocular cystic renal cell carcinoma. Both zones of sclerosis and fibrovascular septa often contained inconspicuous epithelial cells. Sclerotic areas ranged in appearance from a cellular fibroblastic reaction to scar‐like with a residual network of capillaries resembling haemangioma. No patient developed recurrence or metastasis.

Conclusions

Cystic partially regressed clear cell renal cell carcinoma is an uncommon pattern of clear cell renal cell carcinoma, being composed of cysts with solid epithelial and sclerotic components that differentiate it from multilocular cystic renal cell carcinoma.
Maintenance of richness despite reduced abundance of desert bees (Hymenoptera: Apiformes) to persistent grazing
Authors: Minckley Robert L.
Published: July 2013

Anthropogenic changes to ecosystems typically result in decreased species richness and abundance relative to that of adjacent semi‐pristine or pristine areas. Yet, there is debate about the generality of this result for bees given that most studies have included extremely disturbed areas and are from a limited set of biogeographical areas.

Repeat sampling of an unusually specialised, species‐rich bee community was done in the north‐western Chihuahuan Desert, North America at sites in five habitats (riparian, mesquite forest, abandoned field, grassland, and desert scrub) that either had been intensely grazed by cattle in the previous year or not been grazed for 22+ years.

Species density and species composition of bees did not change in response to grazing, abundance and proportion of singleton species (those represented by one specimen) did. In all habitats, other than the riparian, there was lower overall abundance and a greater proportion of singleton species at sites that had been recently grazed than at sites that had not been grazed since 1979. The proportion of singletons was greater in recently grazed than in long‐term ungrazed areas, but pollen‐specialist species did not respond more strongly than pollen generalists.

The substantial variation in bee abundance and rarity was probably associated with differences in floral resources. Overall, lower bee abundance in grazed areas reflects the continuous removal by grazers of the flowers that bees use. Despite reduced bee abundance due to long‐term grazing, species richness, and composition in this desert bee community remained high.
Investigation on CuCa3Ti4O12 Modified BiFeO3‐Based Perovskite Ceramics
Authors: Wang Ben , Gong Lixiu , Wang Shumei , Zhou Zhufa , Ma Guilin
Published: July 2013

(BiFeO3)1−x–(CuCa3Ti4O12)x (x = 0.00, 0.10 and 0.20) ceramics had been prepared via the mixed route. The crystal structure transformation of BiFeO3 (BFO) from rhombohedral to pseudotetragonal phase was induced by 20 mol% CuCa3Ti4O12 (CCTO). Impedance measurements suggested the increase in grain boundary resistance, and CCTO addition could block the conduction path and stabilize the motion of defects. The dielectric constant and the loss tangent of BFO as a function of frequency were found to be incremental on increasing CCTO contents. The enhancement of magnetization would be attributed to the effective suppression of the spiral spin structure and the structure transformation.
Medium Density Fiberboard Machining and Wear Behavior of Injection‐Molded Ceramic Composite Wood Cutting Tools
Authors: Sommer Frank , Talpeanu Dan , Kern Frank , Gadow Rainer , Heisel Uwe
Published: July 2013

Wear behavior of four different ceramic composite cutting tools was studied in peripheral milling of medium density fiberboard. Tools were previously manufactured by near net‐shape ceramic injection molding with subsequent debindering and sintering. Cutting edge rounding and recession were investigated for defined cutting parameters and distinct cutting distances. Cutting forces were measured dependent on tool material and feed travel. Wear characteristics of ceramic cutting tools were investigated by SEM. Ceramic injection‐molded tools were successfully applied in wood‐machining operations. Wear mechanisms changed with different ceramic composites used. Results of microchamfered ACY tools showed superior lifetime compared with standard WC–Co tools.
A nonsemen copulatory fluid influences the outcome of sperm competition in Japanese quail
Authors: Finseth F. R. , Iacovelli S. R. , Harrison R. G. , Adkins‐Regan E. K.
Published: July 2013

Sperm competition is a powerful and widespread evolutionary force that drives the divergence of behavioural, physiological and morphological traits. Elucidating the mechanisms governing differential fertilization success is a fundamental question of sperm competition. Both sperm and nonsperm ejaculate components can influence sperm competition outcomes. Here, we investigate the role of a nonsemen copulatory fluid in sperm competition. Male Japanese quail possess a gland that makes meringue‐like foam. Males produce and store foam independent of sperm and seminal fluid, yet transfer foam to females during copulation. We tested whether foam influenced the outcome of sperm competition by varying foam state and mating order in competitive matings. We found that the presence of foam from one male decreased the relative fertilization success of a rival, and that foam from a given male increased the probability he obtained any fertilizations. Mating order also affected competitive success. Males mated first fertilized proportionally more eggs in a clutch and had more matings with any fertilizations than subsequent males. We conclude that the function of foam in sperm competition is mediated through the positive interaction of foam with a male's sperm, and we speculate whether the benefit is achieved through improving sperm storage, fertilizing efficiency or retention. Our results suggest males can evolve complex strategies to gain fertilizations at the expense of rivals as foam, a copulatory fluid not required for fertilization, nevertheless, has important effects on reproductive performance under competition.