bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevated anthocyanins protect young Eucalyptus leaves from high irradiance but also indicate foliar nutritional quality to visually attuned psyllids
Authors: FARNIER KEVIN , STEINBAUER MARTIN J.
Published: December 2015

1. Foliar colour changes with age and, as a consequence, reflects the internal physiology of leaves. Anthocyanins are ‘red’ pigments known for their photoprotective role in young leaves and have been suggested to influence the host‐finding behaviour of insect herbivores. The existence of colour vision in some species of Eucalyptus‐feeding psyllid provides evidence for the possibility of them being able to locate and select leaves based on their age.

2. The preferences of three psyllid species, namely Anoeconeossa bundoorensis, Glycaspis brimblecombei, and Ctenarytaina bipartita, for leaf colours were tested using live leaves of different age, presented without olfactory cues. Changes in foliar pigment concentrations and relationships with amino acid composition in these psyllid's hosts, namely Eucalyptus camaldulensis and Eucalyptus kitsoniana, were studied to consider the adaptive significance of selecting leaves based on their age.

3. The preference for and attraction to young, anthocyanic leaves of two red‐sensitive psyllid species (A. bundoorensis and G. brimblecombei) were demonstrated, whilst the green‐yellow‐sensitive species (C. bipartita) was shown to discriminate between young ‘yellow’ and older ‘green’ leaves. Age‐related variation in leaf colour was positively correlated with greater availability of essential amino acids.

4. This study presents a unique example of herbivore attraction to ‘red’ leaves and strong evidence for reliance on colour vision in insect orientation at the within‐host level.
Metabolic characteristics of early life history stages of native marble trout (Salmo marmoratus) and introduced brown trout (Salmo trutta) and their hybrids in the Soča River
Authors: Simčič Tatjana , Jesenšek Dušan , Brancelj Anton
Published: December 2015

Metabolic potential and respiration rate have been measured in the early life stages of native marble trout Salmo marmoratus (MT), introduced brown trout Salmo trutta (BT) and their hybrids (MH = female of MT × male of BT and BH = female of BT × male of MT) to examine the differences in their metabolic characteristics. Metabolic potential and respiration rate were lowest in each developmental stage in MT, followed by MH, BT and BH. The ratio between metabolic potential and respiration rate (ETS/R) in larvae was also lowest for MT (1.0) and MH (1.1), followed by BT (1.4) and BH (1.6), indicating more intensive exploitation of metabolic potential for actual respiration in MT (100%) and MH (~90%) than in BT (~70%) and BH (~60%). Lower ETS/R means a disadvantage in the case of enhanced metabolic activity due to insufficient enzyme machinery needed for energy production. Thus, potential and actual metabolic activity and ETS/R ratio could account for the different competitive abilities among pure trout species and their hybrids in a particular environment. This is the first report on biochemical and physiological differences between pure MT and their hybrids. The combination of metabolic and respiration rate measurements appears to be a useful tool for estimating the metabolic properties in the early developmental stages of fish.
N6‐methyladenosine modification in mRNA: machinery, function and implications for health and diseases
Authors: Maity Arpita , Das Biswadip
Published: December 2015

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification in mRNA is extremely widespread, and functionally modulates the eukaryotic transcriptome to influence mRNA splicing, export, localization, translation, and stability. Methylated adenines are present in a large subset of mRNAs and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). Methylation is reversible, and this is accomplished by the orchestrated action of highly conserved methyltransferase (m6A writer) and demethylase (m6A eraser) enzymes to shape the cellular ‘epitranscriptome’. The engraved ‘methyl code’ is subsequently decoded and executed by a group of m6A reader/effector components, which, in turn, govern the fate of the modified transcripts, thereby dictating their potential for translation. Reversible mRNA methylation thus adds another layer of regulation at the post‐transcriptional level in the gene expression programme of eukaryotes that finely sculpts a highly dynamic proteome in order to respond to diverse cues during cellular differentiation, immune tolerance, and neuronal signalling.
ALK,ROS1 and NTRK3 gene rearrangements in inflammatory myofibroblastic tumours
Authors: Yamamoto Hidetaka , Yoshida Akihiko , Taguchi Kenichi , Kohashi Kenichi , Hatanaka Yui , Yamashita Atsushi , Mori Daisuke , Oda Yoshinao
Published: December 2015

Aims

The aim of this study was to elucidate the pathological features of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour (IMT) with gene rearrangement other than ALK.

Methods and results

We investigated anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), ROS1, ETV6, NTRK3 and RET in 36 cases of IMT by using immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, fluorescence in‐situ hybridization, and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). IHC staining showed ALK and ROS1 to be positive in 22 of 36 (61.1%) and two of 36 (5.6%) cases, respectively. In one case with ROS1 positivity, IHC staining showed cytoplasmic and dot‐like ROS1 expression, and RT‐PCR showed the presence of the TFG–ROS1 fusion transcript. Two cases of pulmonary IMT, in a 7‐year‐old patient and a 23‐year‐old patient, had ETV6 rearrangement, and the presence of the ETV6–NTRK3 fusion transcript was confirmed in one case. These tumours were composed of hypocellular myxoid areas and highly cellular areas with rich plasmacytic infiltration; the histological features were different from those of infantile fibrosarcoma. RET rearrangement was not detected.

Conclusions

These results suggest that a subset of ALK‐negative IMTs have rearrangement of ROS1, ETV6 or NTRK3 as a possible oncogenic mechanism, and that the detection of these alterations may be of diagnostic value and helpful for determining promising therapeutic strategies.
Variations in the prevalence and predictors of prevalent metabolically healthy obesity in adolescents
Authors: Heinzle S. , Ball G. D.C. , Kuk J. L.
Published: December 2015

Background

Obesity is a heterogeneous condition, which includes a subset of individuals that can be classified as having metabolically healthy obesity (MHO), but there is no consensus on what constitutes MHO. Thus, the objective of the study is to examine the prevalence and predictors of prevalent MHO in adolescents using various definitions of MHO.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data from the 1999–2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys were used. Participants included 316 male and 316 female adolescents aged 12–19 years with a BMI ≥ 95th percentile. Two definitions were used to define MHO. First, MHO was defined as having ≤1 metabolic syndrome criteria (excluding waist) and being free of type 2 diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemia. Second, MHO was defined as being free of all metabolic syndrome criteria, insulin resistance and inflammation.

Results

The prevalence of MHO was 42% (male) and 74% (female) using the first definition and 7% (male) and 12% (female) using the second more conservative definition. Lower abdominal obesity (waist circumference) and lower insulin resistance predicted prevalent MHO in male and female adolescents for both definitions (p < 0.01). Associations between dietary components and MHO were weak and inconsistent, while physical activity and inflammation were not associated with MHO in male and female adolescents for both definitions (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The prevalence of MHO in adolescents varied across definitions, with lower levels of abdominal obesity and insulin resistance as the most consistent predictors of prevalent MHO status.
Effect of 4‐chloro‐7‐trifluoromethyl‐10H‐benzo[4,5]furo[3,2‐b]indole‐1‐carboxylic acid on the intraurethral pressure in a rat model of benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Choi Bo Ram , Soni Kiran Kumar , Zhang Li Tao , Lee Sung Won , So Insuk , Kim Hye Kyung , Park Jong Kwan
Published: December 2015

Objectives

To investigate the effect of 4‐chloro‐7‐trifluoromethyl‐10H‐benzo[4,5]furo[3,2‐b]indole‐1‐carboxylic acid, a new benzofuroindole derivative, on the intraurethral pressure in a rat model of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Methods

Benign prostatic hyperplasia was induced by testosterone and 17β‐estradiol, which were administered intramuscularly once a day for 12 weeks. The effects of 4‐chloro‐7‐trifluoromethyl‐10H‐benzo[4,5]furo[3,2‐b]indole‐1‐carboxylic acid and tamsulosin on the intraurethral pressure induced by the electrostimulation of hypogastric nerves after a single intravenous injection of 4‐chloro‐7‐trifluoromethyl‐10H‐benzo[4,5]furo[3,2‐b]indole‐1‐carboxylic acid (10 mg/kg) or tamsulosin (10 μg/kg) were evaluated in a benign prostatic hyperplasia model. The electrostimulation‐induced intraurethral pressure was measured just before and after the injection of 4‐chloro‐7‐trifluoromethyl‐10H‐benzo[4,5]furo[3,2‐b]indole‐1‐carboxylic acid. Bodyweight and genitourinary organ weights were recorded, and serums and tissues were subjected to hormone assays and histopathology. In addition, the expression of α1‐adrenoceptors in the prostate was measured by western blotting.

Results

The benign prostatic hyperplasia groups showed increased prostatic index, increased concentrations of testosterone, free testosterone and estradiol in serum, and increased epithelial thickness of the prostate. An injection of 4‐chloro‐7‐trifluoromethyl‐10H‐benzo[4,5]furo[3,2‐b]indole‐1‐carboxylic acid or tamsulosin significantly inhibited the elevation of electrostimulation‐induced intraurethral pressure. In addition, 4‐chloro‐7‐trifluoromethyl‐10H‐benzo[4,5]furo[3,2‐b]indole‐1‐carboxylic acid did not cause a significant change in the blood pressure compared with tamsulosin. While the benign prostatic hyperplasia group showed increased the expression of α1‐adrenoceptors, the 4‐chloro‐7‐trifluoromethyl‐10H‐benzo[4,5]furo[3,2‐b]indole‐1‐carboxylic acid or tamsulosin injection into a rat model of benign prostatic hyperplasia decreased the expression of α1‐adrenoceptors.

Conclusions

These findings show that 4‐chloro‐7‐trifluoromethyl‐10H‐benzo[4,5]furo[3,2‐b]indole‐1‐carboxylic acid might be beneficial for lowering the intraurethral pressure associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia, and it could represent a therapeutic option for benign prostatic hyperplasia patients.
Occupational Stereotypes and Gender‐Specific Job Satisfaction
Authors: Janssen Simon , Backes‐Gellner Uschi
Published: December 2015

Using representative data containing information on job satisfaction and workers’ gender‐specific prejudices, we investigate the relationship between stereotyping and job satisfaction. We show that women in stereotypically male jobs are significantly less satisfied with their work climate and job content than in stereotypically female jobs but more satisfied with their income in those same jobs. Our findings indicate that women trade off their higher income satisfaction against the negative consequences of stereotyping. As long as we take into account that stereotypically male jobs are physically more demanding than stereotypically female jobs, men are generally more satisfied with stereotypically male jobs.
Postpartum and Post‐Abortion Contraception: From Research to Programs
Authors: Shah Iqbal H. , Santhya K.G. , Cleland John
Published: December 2015

Contraception following delivery or an induced abortion reduces the risk of an early unintended pregnancy and its associated adverse health consequences. Unmet need for contraception during the postpartum period and contraceptive counseling and services following abortion have been the focus of efforts for the last several decades. This article provides an introduction to the more focused contributions that follow in this special issue. We discuss the validity and measurement of the concept of unmet need for family planning during the postpartum period. We then present key findings on postpartum contraceptive protection, use dynamics, and method mix, followed by an assessment of interventions to improve postpartum family planning. The evidence on postabortion contraceptive uptake and continuation of use remains thin, although encouraging results are noted for implementation of comprehensive abortion care and for the impact of post‐abortion contraceptive counseling and services. Drawing on these studies, we outline policy and program implications for improving postpartum and post‐abortion contraceptive use.
Contraceptive Adoption, Discontinuation, and Switching among Postpartum Women in Nairobi's Urban Slums
Authors: Mumah Joyce N. , Machiyama Kazuyo , Mutua Michael , Kabiru Caroline W. , Cleland John
Published: December 2015

Unmet need for contraception is highest within 12 months post‐delivery, according to research. Using longitudinal data from the Nairobi Urban Health and Demographic Surveillance System, we assess the dynamics of contraceptive use during the postpartum period among women in Nairobi's slums. Results show that by 6 months postpartum, 83 percent of women had resumed sexual activity and 51 percent had resumed menses, yet only 49 percent had adopted a modern contraceptive method. Furthermore, almost half of women discontinued a modern method within 12 months of initiating use, with many likely to switch to another short‐term method with high method‐related dissatisfaction. Women who adopted a method after resumption of menses had higher discontinuation rates, though the effect was much reduced after adjusting for other variables. To reduce unmet need, effective intervention programs are essential to lower high levels of discontinuation and encourage switching to more effective methods.
Associations Between Abortion Services and Acceptance of Postabortion Contraception in Six Indian States
Authors: Banerjee Sushanta K. , Gulati Sumit , Andersen Kathryn L. , Acre Valerie , Warvadekar Janardan , Navin Deepa
Published: December 2015

Women receiving induced abortions or postabortion care are at high risk of subsequent unintended pregnancy, and intervals of less than six months between abortion and subsequent pregnancy may be associated with adverse outcomes. This study highlights the prevalence and attributes of postabortion contraceptive acceptance from 2,456 health facilities in six major Indian states, among 292,508 women who received abortion care services from July 2011 through June 2014. Eighty‐one percent of the women accepted postabortion contraceptive methods: 53 percent short‐term, 11 percent intrauterine devices, and 16 percent sterilization. Postabortion contraceptive acceptance was highest among women who were aged 25 years and older, received first‐trimester services, received induced abortion, attended primary‐level health facilities, and had medical abortions. Doctors receiving post‐training support were more likely to offer contraceptives, but no association was observed between such support and acceptance of IUDs or sterilization. Comprehensive service‐delivery interventions, including ensuring availability of skilled providers and contraceptive commodities, offering clinical mentoring for providers, identifying and addressing provider bias, and improving provider counseling skills, can increase postabortion contraceptive acceptance and reduce unintended pregnancy.
High‐Precision Measurement of Molybdenum Isotopic Compositions of Selected Geochemical Reference Materials
Authors: Li Jin , Zhu Xiang‐kun , Tang Suo‐han , Zhang Kan
Published: December 2015

Here we describe high‐precision molybdenum isotopic composition measurements of geological reference materials, performed using multi‐collector inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (MC‐ICP‐MS). Purification of Mo for isotopic measurements was achieved by ion exchange chromatography using Bio‐Rad AG® 1‐X8 anion exchange resin. Instrumental mass bias was corrected using 100Mo‐97Mo double spiking techniques. The precision under intermediate measurement conditions (eighteen measurement sessions over 20 months) in terms of δ98/95Mo was 0.10‰ (2s). The measurement output was approximately four times more efficient than previous techniques, with no compromise in precision. The Mo isotopic compositions of seven geochemical reference materials, seawater (IAPSO), manganese nodules (NOD‐P‐1 and NOD‐A‐1), copper‐molybdenum ore (HV‐2), basalt (BCR‐2) and shale (SGR‐1b and SCo‐1), were measured. δ98/95Mo values were obtained for IAPSO (2.25 ± 0.09‰), NOD‐P‐1 (−0.66 ± 0.05‰), NOD‐A‐1 (−0.48 ± 0.05‰), HV‐2 (−0.23 ± 0.10‰), BCR‐2 (0.21 ± 0.07‰), SCo‐1 (−0.24 ± 0.06‰) and SGR‐1b (0.63 ± 0.02‰) by calculating δ98/95Mo relative to NIST SRM 3134 (0.25‰, 2s). The molybdenum isotopic compositions of IAPSO, NOD‐A‐1 and NOD‐P‐1 obtained in this study are within error of the compositions reported previously. Molybdenum isotopic compositions for BCR‐2, SCo‐1 and SGR‐1b are reported for the first time.
Ventricular Tachycardia Ablation in the Presence of Left Ventricular Thrombus: Safety and Efficacy
Authors: RAO HYGRIV B. , YU RICKY , CHITNIS NISHAD , DO DUC , BOYLE NOEL G. , SHIVKUMAR KALYANAM , BRADFIELD JASON S.
Published: December 2015

VT Ablation in the Presence of LV Thrombus

Introduction

The safety of ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation in patients with laminated left ventricular (LV) thrombus has not been examined.

Methods

Patients with laminated LV thrombus on transthoracic echocardiogram who underwent scar‐mediated VT ablation at two centers from 2010 to 2013 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients had failed medical therapy. Acute procedural outcomes, complications, and clinical outcomes at 1 year were assessed.

Results

Eight patients (four ischemic, four nonischemic cardiomyopathy) underwent VT ablation in the presence of laminated intracavitary thrombus. Six out of eight (75%) had electrical storm (ES). The mapping and ablation approach was LV endocardial‐only in three patients, epicardial‐only in two, combined epicardial‐RV endocardial in two, and combined epicardial‐LV endocardial in one. Major complication (ischemic stroke) occurred in one patient 9 days post‐procedure. There was no procedural mortality. Complete acute procedural success (noninducibility of any VT after ablation) was achieved in five (63%), and partial success (ablation of only clinical VT) in an additional three (37%). At 1 year, freedom from VT and survival were achieved in six (75%) and seven (88%) patients, respectively.

Conclusion

Initial data suggest that ablation of VT in the presence of intracavitary thrombus is feasible, is associated with a similar success rate to historical studies in patients without thrombus, and has an acceptable risk of complications given the high‐risk nature of patients with ES. Further data are needed; however, the presence of a laminated thrombus should not necessarily preclude ablation in patients who have failed medical therapy for VT in whom ablation is otherwise indicated.
Crisis and Public Support for the Euro, 1990–2014*
Authors: Roth Felix , Jonung Lars , Nowak‐Lehmann D. Felicitas
Published: December 2015

This article analyses the evolution of public support for the single European currency, the euro, from 1990 to 2014 for a 12‐country sample of the euro area (EA‐12), focusing on the most recent period of the financial and sovereign debt crisis, starting in 2008. We find that citizens' support for the euro on average was marginally reduced during the first six years of the crisis, and that support has remained at high levels. While the pronounced increase in unemployment in the EA‐12 throughout the crisis has led to a marked decline in trust in the European Central Bank (ECB), it is only weakly related to support for the euro.
AFAST – Adult Female Acne Scoring Tool: an easy‐to‐use tool for scoring acne in adult females
Authors: Auffret N. , Claudel J.‐P. , Leccia M.‐T. , Poli F. , Farhi D. , Dréno B.
Published: December 2015

Background

Acne is a concern in adults, especially in women. The specifications in current acne grading systems are not applicable to this particular population.

Objective

To develop and validate a measurement tool (AFAST: adult female acne scoring tool) for acne in women by taking into account the specific locations of adult female acne, and to evaluate the impact of the photographic modalities on rating reproducibility.

Methods

Six experts in dermatology rated pictures of 54 women with a phototype from I to IV during two sessions, with an interval of 24 h. They rated the acne severity on the face using the GEA scale (Score 1) together with a new scale to assess acne on the mandibular zone (Score 2). Pictures of 30 women were taken using a standardized photographic device; pictures of the other 24 women were taken by their own dermatologists during daily practice.

Results

At session 1, the inter‐rater's reproducibility was good for Score 1 with an ICC of 0.77 [0.72–0.83], and excellent for Score 2 with an ICC of 0.87 [0.82–0.91]. Between sessions 1 and 2, the mean intra‐rater's reproducibility was excellent for both scores with an ICC of 0.88 [0.84–0.92] for Score 1, and an ICC of 0.87 [0.78–0.92] for Score 2. Photographic modalities had no significant effect on the inter‐ and intra‐rater's reproducibility.

Conclusion

For the first time, it has been demonstrated that AFAST can accurately rate acne severity in women. It is a promising, easy‐to‐use tool for both daily practice and clinical investigation.
Chemical communication of queen supergene status in an ant
Authors: Trible W. , Ross K. G.
Published: December 2015

Traits of interest to evolutionary biologists often have complex genetic architectures, the nature of which can confound traditional experimental study at single levels of analysis. In the fire ant Solenopsis invicta, the presence of a Mendelian ‘supergene’ is both necessary and sufficient to induce a shift in a fundamental property of social organization, from single‐queen (monogyne) to multiple‐queen (polygyne) colonies. This selfish genetic element, termed the Social b (Sb) supergene, contains > 600 genes that collectively promote its fitness by inducing the characteristic polygyne syndrome, in part by causing polygyne workers to accept only queens bearing the Sb element (a behaviour termed ‘worker Sb discrimination’). Here, we employ a newly developed behavioural assay to reveal that polygyne workers, many of which bear the Sb element, employ chemical cues on the cuticle of queens to achieve worker Sb discrimination, but we found no evidence for such pheromonally mediated worker Sb discrimination in monogyne workers, which universally lack the Sb element. This polygyne worker Sb discrimination was then verified through a ‘green beard’ effect previously described in this system. We thus have demonstrated that the Sb element is required both for production of relevant chemical cues of queens and for expression of the behaviours of workers that collectively result in worker Sb discrimination. This information fills a critical gap in the map between genotype and complex phenotype in S. invicta by restricting the search for candidate genes and molecules involved in producing this complex social trait to factors associated with the Sb element itself.
First report and description of a Cyrilia sp. (Apicomplexa: Haemogregarinidae) from a freshwater Cururu Stingray Potamotrygon cf. histrix (Elasmobranchii: Potamotrygonidae), from the Amazon Region, Brazil
Authors: Magro N M , de Oliveira A T , O'Dwyer L H
Published: December 2015

A haemogregarine is described in 12 cururu stingray (Potamotrygon cf. histrix), from Mariuá Archipelago, Negro River, in the Brazilian Amazon Basin. All animals, both male and female, were parasitized by the haemogregarine and parasitaemia varied between 0.8% and 10% of erythrocytes. The stages observed included trophozoites or merozoites, suspected meronts, and gamonts presumed to be of two types, macrogamonts and microgamonts. Most stages were observed inside mature erythrocytes, while others were extracellular. The stages observed were most similar to those characteristics of the genus Cyrilia, than to any other fish haemogregarine and may represent a new Cyrilia species.
The benefit of paracentesis on hospitalized adults with cirrhosis and ascites
Authors: Gaetano John N , Micic Dejan , Aronsohn Andrew , Reddy Gautham , Te Helen , Reau Nancy S , Jensen Donald
Published: December 2015

Background and Aim:

The aim of this study is to assess paracentesis utilization and outcomes in hospitalized adults with cirrhosis and ascites.

Methods:

The 2011 Nationwide Inpatient Sample was used to identify adults, non‐electively admitted with diagnoses of cirrhosis and ascites. The primary endpoint was in‐hospital mortality. Variables included patient and hospital demographics, early (Day 0 or 1) or late (Day 2 or later) paracentesis, hepatic decompensation, and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.

Results:

Out of 8 023 590 admissions, 31 614 met inclusion criteria. Among these hospitalizations, approximately 51% (16 133) underwent paracentesis. The overall in‐hospital mortality rate was 7.6%. There was a significantly increased mortality among patients who did not undergo paracentesis (8.9% vs 6.3%, P < 0.001). Patients who did not receive paracentesis died 1.83 times more often in the hospital than those patients who did receive paracentesis (95% confidence interval 1.66–2.02). Patients undergoing early paracentesis showed a trend towards reduction in mortality (5.5% vs 7.5%) compared with those undergoing late paracentesis. Patients admitted on a weekend demonstrated less frequent use of early paracentesis (50% weekend vs 62% weekday) and demonstrated increased mortality (adjusted odds ratio 1.12 95% confidence interval 1.01–1.25). Among patients diagnosed with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, early paracentesis was associated with shorter length of stay (7.55 vs 11.45 days, P < 0.001) and decreased hospitalization cost ($61 624 vs $107 484, P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Paracentesis is under‐utilized among cirrhotic patients presenting with ascites and is associated with decreased in‐hospital mortality. These data support the use of paracentesis as a key inpatient quality measure among hospitalized adults with cirrhosis. Future studies are needed to investigate the barriers to paracentesis use on admission.
Cerebellar neurophysiology in Gilles de la Tourette syndrome and its role as a target for therapeutic intervention
Authors: Pedroarena‐Leal Nicole , Ruge Diane
Published: December 2015

Therapy resistance of approximately one‐third of patients with Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) requires consideration of alternative therapeutic interventions. The article demonstrates the role of the cerebellum in neuropsychiatric disorders and GTS in particular, specifically its role in functions relating to motor and cognitive symptoms. Certain circuits in the cerebellum have been shown to undergo learning‐induced changes during conditioning, with cells in the cortex of the cerebellum appearing to decrease their activity whilst those in deep nuclei seem to do the inverse. Evidence exists showing that abnormal excitability of the motor cortex via the cerebellum could be expected to participate in motor tics in GTS possibly due to aberrations in certain structures of involved circuits. The role of the cerebellum in learning and plasticity processes renders it a strategic and valuable structure to consider for brain stimulation when investigating potential treatment options for neuropsychiatric disorders such as GTS. This article puts forth the concept of using non‐invasive and invasive brain stimulation techniques as a novel platform for non‐pharmacological neuromodulation of GTS symptoms.
Paeoniflorin, a novel heat‐shock protein inducing compound, and human myometrial contractility in vitro
Authors: Hehir Mark P. , Morrison John J.
Published: December 2015

Aim

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are synthesized in virtually all organisms in response to increases in temperature. They are associated with a relaxant effect on the human myometrium and are present in decreased concentration in the myometrium at the time of labor. Paeoniflorin is derived from Paeonia lactiflora and has been shown to induce the synthesis of HSPs in cultured mammalian cells. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of paeoniflorin on human uterine contractility.

Material and Methods

Samples of human myometrium were taken at lower segment cesarean section. Dissected muscle strips were suspended under isometric conditions and exposed to cumulative additions of paeoniflorin in concentrations ranging from 1 nmol/L to 10 mol/L. Control experiments were simultaneously performed.

Results

Paeoniflorin was found to exert an inhibitory effect on spontaneous and agonist‐induced contractions compared to control strips. The mean maximal inhibition values were: 42.21% ± 9.26 for spontaneous contractions (n = 6; P < 0.0001) and 47.84% ± 9.05 for oxytocin‐induced contractions (n = 6; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The HSP inducing compound, paeoniflorin, had a relaxant effect on human uterine contractility in vitro. These results reinforce the fact that HSPs may play a physiological role in the onset of labor and may also provide future targets for novel tocolytic treatments.
Gross motor function and general development of babies born after assisted reproductive technology
Authors: Hashimoto Keiji , Ogawa Kohei , Horikawa Reiko , Ikeda Natsuha , Kato Keiko , Kamide Anri , Sago Haruhiko
Published: December 2015

Aim

To elucidate the gross motor function and general development of babies born after assisted reproductive technology (ART).

Material and Methods

The study subjects comprised 238 babies born after ART and 365 babies as the control. Multiple births, premature and low birth weight babies were excluded. Questionnaires were distributed to mothers and gross motor function and general development were evaluated according to the Ability for Basic Movement Scale for Children (ABMS‐C) and Kinder Infant Development Scale (KIDS), respectively.

Results

There were no significant differences in gross motor function according to the ABMS‐C between the two groups at one, three, six, nine and 12 months of age. The KIDS scores on subscales of expressive language at three months, manipulation at nine months and the total developmental quotient, and subscales of manipulation, receptive language and social relationships with children at 12 months were significantly higher in the ART than in the control group.

Conclusions

There was no significant difference in gross motor function up to 12 months of age between the ART and control groups. However, the total developmental quotient and scores on linguistic and communication capacity of children at 12 months of age were significantly higher in the ART group. These results suggested that ART has no adverse effects on intellectual function, at least during early infancy.
Dissonant Notes on the Post‐Secular: Unthinking Secularization in Global Historical Sociology
Authors: Ascione Gennaro
Published: December 2015

The article criticizes the assumption that modernity is a rupture in time and space conceivable in terms of the coming of a secular age. It tackles Habermas concept of ‘post‐secular’ and denotes it as an attempt to provide new foundations to modernization narratives, in postmodern terms; it discusses Blumenberg's idea of secularization and questions the historical ontogenesis of what Blumenberg thinks of in terms of the transition to the modern age; it further elaborates on Wang Hui analysis of the relation between Western science and the role of China in global modernity. Secularization and the post‐secular, it is argued, re‐frame narratives of the disenchantment within a western geocultural ideology of western superiority.
The Effect of Composite Thickness on the Stress Distribution Pattern of Restored Premolar Teeth with Cusp Reduction
Authors: Panahandeh Narges , Torabzadeh Hassan , Ziaee Nargess , Mahdian Mina , Tootiaee Bahman , Ghasemi Amir
Published: December 2015

Purpose

Different thicknesses of restorative material can alter the stress distribution pattern in remaining tooth structure. The assumption is that a thicker composite restoration will induce a higher fracture resistance. Therefore, the present study evaluated the effect of composite thickness on stress distribution in a restored premolar with cusp reduction.

Materials and Methods

A 3D solid model of a maxillary second premolar was prepared and meshed. MOD cavities were designed with different cusp reduction thicknesses (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2.5 mm). Cavities were restored with Valux Plus composite. They were loaded with 200 N force on the occlusal surface in the direction of the long axis. Von Mises stresses were evaluated with Abaqus software.

Results

Stress increased from occlusal to gingival and was maximum in the cervical region. The stressed area in the palatal cusp was more than that of the buccal cusp. Increasing the thickness of composite altered the shear stress to compressive stress in the occlusal area of the teeth.

Conclusion

The model with 2.5 mm cusp reduction exhibited the most even stress distribution.
School Personnel Experiences in Notifying Parents About Their Child's Risk for Suicide: Lessons Learned
Authors: Nadeem Erum , Santiago Catherine DeCarlo , Kataoka Sheryl H. , Chang Vickie Y. , Stein Bradley D.
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND

Schools across the nation are increasingly implementing suicide prevention programs that involve training school staff and connecting students and their families to appropriate services. However, little is known about how parents are engaged in such efforts.

METHODS

This qualitative study examined school staff perspectives on parent involvement in the implementation of a district‐wide suicide prevention program by analyzing focus group and interview data gathered on the program implementation processes. Participants included middle school teachers, administrators, and other school personnel.

RESULTS

Study results revealed that in the immediate wake of a crisis or concern about suicide, school staff routinely contacted parents. However, substantial barriers prevent some students from receiving needed follow‐up care (eg, lack of consistent follow‐up, financial strain, parental stress, availability of appropriate services). Despite these challenges, school staff identified strategies that could better support parents before, during, and after the crisis. In particular, school‐based services increased the success of mental health referrals.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that systematic postcrisis follow‐up procedures are needed to improve the likelihood that students and families receive ongoing support. In particular, school‐based services and home visits, training and outreach for parents, and formal training for school mental health staff on parent engagement may be beneficial in this context.
A Tale of 2 Teachers: A Preschool Physical Activity Intervention Case Study
Authors: Howie Erin K. , Brewer Alisa E. , Dowda Marsha , McIver Kerry L. , Saunders Ruth P. , Pate Russell R.
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND

Preschool settings vary greatly, and research has shown that interventions are more successful when they can be adapted to individual settings. This is a descriptive case study of how 2 teachers successfully adapted and implemented a preschool physical activity intervention.

METHODS

The Study of Health and Activity in Preschool Environments (SHAPES) was a 3‐year physical activity intervention. A detailed case study of 2 high‐implementing teachers was conducted. Multiple data sources included accelerometry, direct observation, teacher surveys, and intervention staff field notes.

RESULTS

Teacher A focused on integrating physical activity into a wide range of activities, including parent and community events. Teacher B focused on high‐intensity, structured activities. Both teachers supported the intervention, worked closely with intervention staff, and operated their classroom as an autonomous unit with support from their directors. Teacher A provided an average of 31.5, 78.0, and 67.5 min of physical activity opportunity per day of observation during years 1, 2, and 3. Teacher B provided an average of 2.7, 33.5, and 73.3 minutes of physical activity opportunity per day of observation.

CONCLUSION

Successful implementation of physical activity interventions may look different in different contexts; thus, interventions should allow for flexible implementation.
Kinetic flux profiling dissects nitrogen utilization pathways in the oleaginous green alga Chlorella protothecoides
Authors: Wu Chao , Xiong Wei , Dai Junbiao , Wu Qingyu
Published: December 2015

As a promising candidate for biodiesel production, the green alga Chlorella protothecoides can efficiently produce oleaginous biomass and the lipid biosynthesis is greatly influenced by the availability of nitrogen source and corresponding nitrogen assimilation pathways. Based on isotope‐assisted kinetic flux profiling (KFP), the fluxes through the nitrogen utilization pathway were quantitatively analyzed. We found that autotrophic C. protothecoides cells absorbed ammonium mainly through glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), and partially through glutamine synthetase (GS), which was the rate‐limiting enzyme of nitrogen assimilation process with rare metabolic activity of glutamine oxoglutarate aminotransferase (GOGAT, also known as glutamate synthase); whereas under heterotrophic conditions, the cells adapted to GS‐GOGAT cycle for nitrogen assimilation in which GS reaction rate was associated with GOGAT activity. The fact that C. protothecoides chooses the adenosine triphosphate‐free and less ammonium‐affinity GDH pathway, or alternatively the energy‐consuming GS‐GOGAT cycle with high ammonium affinity for nitrogen assimilation, highlights the metabolic adaptability of C. protothecoides exposed to altered nitrogen conditions.
New Ulvaceae (Ulvophyceae, Chlorophyta) from mesophotic ecosystems across the Hawaiian Archipelago
Authors: Spalding Heather L. , Conklin Kimberly Y. , Smith Celia M. , O'Kelly Charles J. , Sherwood Alison R.
Published: December 2015

Ulvalean algae (Chlorophyta) are most commonly described from intertidal and shallow subtidal marine environments worldwide, but are less well known from mesophotic environments. Their morphological simplicity and phenotypic plasticity make accurate species determinations difficult, even at the generic level. Here, we describe the mesophotic Ulvales species composition from 13 locations across 2,300 km of the Hawaiian Archipelago. Twenty‐eight representative Ulvales specimens from 64 to 125 m depths were collected using technical diving, submersibles, and remotely operated vehicles. Morphological and molecular characters suggest that mesophotic Ulvales in Hawaiian waters form unique communities comprising four species within the genera Ulva and Umbraulva, each with discrete geographic and/or depth‐related distributional patterns. Three genetically distinct taxa are supported by both plastid (rbcL and tufA) and nuclear (ITS1) markers, and are presented here as new species: Umbraulva kaloakulau, Ulva ohiohilulu, and Ulva iliohaha. We also propose a new Umbraulva species (Umbraulva kuaweuweu), which is closely related to subtidal records from New Zealand and Australia, but not formally described. To our knowledge, these are the first marine species descriptions from Hawai‘i resulting from the collaboration of traditional Hawaiian nomenclature specialists, cultural practitioners and scientists. The difficulty of finding reliable diagnostic morphological characters for these species reflects a common problem worldwide of achieving accurate identification of ulvalean taxa using solely morphological criteria. Mesophotic Ulvales appear to be distinct from shallow‐water populations in Hawai‘i, but their degree of similarity to mesophotic floras in other locations in the Pacific remains unknown.
Penile Prosthesis Implantation in Patients with a History of Total Phallic Construction
Authors: Zuckerman Jack M. , Smentkowski Katherine , Gilbert David , Storme Oscar , Jordan Gerald , Virasoro Ramon , Tonkin Jeremy , McCammon Kurt
Published: December 2015

Introduction

Outcomes following penile prosthesis implantation in patients with a history of total phallic construction are not well described.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes following neophallus penile prosthesis placement.

Methods

Retrospective review penile prosthesis placement in patients with prior total phallic construction. GORE-TEX® (Gore Medical, Flagstaff, AZ) sleeve neotunica construction was utilized in all patients.

Main Outcome Measure

Success defined as patient sexual activity with a functioning prosthesis.

Results

Thirty-one patients underwent neophallic prosthesis implantation at a mean 35.6 years of age. Prosthesis placement occurred at an average 56.3 months following phallic construction and follow-up was a mean of 59.7 months. Malleable prostheses were placed in 21 patients and inflatable in 10; implants were bilateral in 94%. Six percent experienced operative complications including a bladder injury (1) and phallic flap arterial injury (1). Postoperative complications occurred in 23% at a median 5.5 months following placement. Five prostheses were explanted secondary to infection or erosion and two additional required revisions. Of the explanted prosthesis two were later replaced without further complication. Eighty-one percent of patients were sexually active following prosthesis placement.

Conclusions

Penile prosthesis placement is possible in patients with prior penile reconstruction/phallic construction. Although complications rates appear to be elevated in this population compared with historic controls of normal anatomic men, the majority of patients in this series were sexually active following prosthesis placement. This demonstrates the utility of prosthesis implantation in these difficult patients.
Basic Science Evidence for the Link Between Erectile Dysfunction and Cardiometabolic Dysfunction
Authors: Musicki Biljana , Bella Anthony J. , Bivalacqua Trinity J. , Davies Kelvin P. , DiSanto Michael E. , Gonzalez-Cadavid Nestor F. , Hannan Johanna L. , Kim Noel N. , Podlasek Carol A. , Wingard Christopher J. , Burnett Arthur L.
Published: December 2015

Introduction

Although clinical evidence supports an association between cardiovascular/metabolic diseases (CVMD) and erectile dysfunction (ED), scientific evidence for this link is incompletely elucidated.

Aim

This study aims to provide scientific evidence for the link between CVMD and ED.

Methods

In this White Paper, the Basic Science Committee of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America assessed the current literature on basic scientific support for a mechanistic link between ED and CVMD, and deficiencies in this regard with a critical assessment of current preclinical models of disease.

Results

A link exists between ED and CVMD on several grounds: the endothelium (endothelium-derived nitric oxide and oxidative stress imbalance); smooth muscle (SM) (SM abundance and altered molecular regulation of SM contractility); autonomic innervation (autonomic neuropathy and decreased neuronal-derived nitric oxide); hormones (impaired testosterone release and actions); and metabolics (hyperlipidemia, advanced glycation end product formation).

Conclusion

Basic science evidence supports the link between ED and CVMD. The Committee also highlighted gaps in knowledge and provided recommendations for guiding further scientific study defining this risk relationship. This endeavor serves to develop novel strategic directions for therapeutic interventions.
Atrial Fibrillation in Eight New World Camelids
Authors: Bozorgmanesh R. , Magdesian K.G. , Estell K.E. , Stern J.A. , Swain E.A. , Griffiths L.G.
Published: December 2015

Background

There is limited information on the incidence of clinical signs, concurrent illness and treatment options for atrial fibrillation (AF) in New World Camelids (NWC).

Objective

Describe clinical signs and outcome of AF in NWC.

Animals

Eight New World Camelids admitted with AF.

Methods

A retrospective observational study of camelids diagnosed with AF based on characteristic findings on electrocardiogram (ECG).

Results

All animals had an irregularly irregular heart rhythm detected on physical examination and 4 cases had obtunded mentation on admission. Three camelids were diagnosed with AF secondary to oleander intoxication, 3 animals had underlying cardiovascular disease, 1 was diagnosed with lone AF and 1 had AF diagnosed on examination for a urethral obstruction. Five of eight animals survived to discharge and nonsurvivors consisted of animals which died or were euthanized as a result of cardiovascular disease (2/8) or extra‐cardiac disease unrelated to the AF (1/8).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Atrial fibrillation occurs in NWC in association with cardiovascular disease, extra‐cardiac disease or as lone AF. Amiodarone and transthoracic cardioversion were attempted in one llama with lone AF, but were unsuccessful. Atrial fibrillation was recorded in 0.1% of admissions.
The case of Bougainvillia triestina Hartlaub 1911 (Hydrozoa, Cnidaria): a 100‐year‐long struggle for recognition
Authors: Batistić Mirna , Garić Rade
Published: December 2015

Bougainvillia triestina was described by Hartlaub in 1911 from specimens collected in the Gulf of Trieste (North Adriatic, Italy). Two years later, after re‐examination of the same specimens, Neppi & Stiasny (1913) concluded that these were in fact juvenile medusae of Bougainvillia autumnalis (now synonymized with Bougainvillia muscus). Based on unique morphological traits and genetic analyses (16S rRNA, 18S rRNA, COI) of specimens of different stages recently collected in the shallow and enclosed coastal area of Ploče Harbour and Mali Ston Bay (South Adriatic, Croatia), we can confirm, 100 years after its first description, B. triestina as a valid, distinct species, clearly distinguishable from B. muscus (Allman 1863). Based on its occurrence in the Adriatic Sea, B. triestina seems to prefer productive coastal areas with a wide range of temperatures and salinities. Therefore, we expect that this species inhabits other coastal areas of the Mediterranean Sea as well as those of other seas and oceans. Given this, it is probable that in previous investigations some records of B. triestina were incorrectly attributed to B. muscus.
Flower ontogeny in Capparis spinosa (Capparaceae) with special emphasis on symmetry expression
Authors: Naghiloo Somayeh , Fathollahi Mohammad Reza , Classen‐Bockhoff Regine
Published: December 2015

The flower ontogeny of Capparis spinosa L. was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in order to shed light on the early expression of symmetry in a representative member of Capparaceae. Sepals start decussately with the abaxial and adaxial sepals, followed by the lateral ones. Petal appearance proceeds uni‐directionally from the abaxial to the adaxial side. Stamens develop centrifugally on an androecial ring. Five to seven carpel lobes arise on a gynoecial ring. Monosymmetry is established in early development by the uni‐directional petal appearance and is further enhanced by the acquisition of an abaxial nectary appendage and differential development of perianth organs at anthesis. The early monosymmetric pattern found in C. spinosa differs from the early monosymmetric and early disymmetric pathways of Cleomoideae. Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that the late establishment of monosymmetry is a reflective of symmetry in early development.
Ceropegia cochleata sp. nov. (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae) from Thailand
Authors: Kidyoo Manit
Published: December 2015

Ceropegia cochleata Kidyoo, described a new below, is known from three populations in northern and northeastern Thailand. Comprehensive description, illustrations, photographs, and comparisons with the morphologically similar C. beddomei Hook. f., are here provided. Ceropegia cochleata is distinguished by its conspicuously hairy inner surface of the swollen basal part of the corolla tube and by the shape of inner coronal lobes.