bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diffusible iodine‐based contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (diceCT): an emerging tool for rapid, high‐resolution, 3‐D imaging of metazoan soft tissues
Authors: Gignac Paul M. , Kley Nathan J. , Clarke Julia A. , Colbert Matthew W. , Morhardt Ashley C. , Cerio Donald , Cost Ian N. , Cox Philip G. , Daza Juan D. , Early Catherine M. , Echols M. Scott , Henkelman R. Mark , Herdina A. Nele , Holliday Casey M. , Li Zhiheng , Mahlow Kristin , Merchant Samer , Müller Johannes , Orsbon Courtney P. , Paluh Daniel J. , Thies Monte L. , Tsai Henry P. , Witmer Lawrence M.
Published: March 2016

Morphologists have historically had to rely on destructive procedures to visualize the three‐dimensional (3‐D) anatomy of animals. More recently, however, non‐destructive techniques have come to the forefront. These include X‐ray computed tomography (CT), which has been used most commonly to examine the mineralized, hard‐tissue anatomy of living and fossil metazoans. One relatively new and potentially transformative aspect of current CT‐based research is the use of chemical agents to render visible, and differentiate between, soft‐tissue structures in X‐ray images. Specifically, iodine has emerged as one of the most widely used of these contrast agents among animal morphologists due to its ease of handling, cost effectiveness, and differential affinities for major types of soft tissues. The rapid adoption of iodine‐based contrast agents has resulted in a proliferation of distinct specimen preparations and scanning parameter choices, as well as an increasing variety of imaging hardware and software preferences. Here we provide a critical review of the recent contributions to iodine‐based, contrast‐enhanced CT research to enable researchers just beginning to employ contrast enhancement to make sense of this complex new landscape of methodologies. We provide a detailed summary of recent case studies, assess factors that govern success at each step of the specimen storage, preparation, and imaging processes, and make recommendations for standardizing both techniques and reporting practices. Finally, we discuss potential cutting‐edge applications of diffusible iodine‐based contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (diceCT) and the issues that must still be overcome to facilitate the broader adoption of diceCT going forward.
Simplifying a wing: diversity and functional consequences of digital joint reduction in bat wings
Authors: Bahlman Joseph W. , Price‐Waldman Rosalyn M. , Lippe Hannah W. , Breuer Kenneth S. , Swartz Sharon M.
Published: March 2016

Bat wings, like other mammalian forelimbs, contain many joints within the digits. These joints collectively affect dynamic three‐dimensional (3D) wing shape, thereby affecting the amount of aerodynamic force a wing can generate. Bats are a speciose group, and show substantial variation in the number of wing joints. Additionally, some bat species have joints with extensor but no flexor muscles. While several studies have examined the diversity in number of joints and presence of muscles, musculoskeletal variation in the digits has not been interpreted in phylogenetic, functional or ecological contexts. To provide this context, the number of joints and the presence/absence of muscles are quantified for 44 bat species, and are mapped phylogenetically. It is shown that, relative to the ancestral state, joints and muscles were lost multiple times from different digits and in many lineages. It is also shown that joints lacking flexors undergo cyclical flexion and extension, in a manner similar to that observed in joints with both flexors and extensors. Comparison of species with contrasting feeding ecologies demonstrates that species that feed primarily on non‐mobile food (e.g. fruit) have fewer fully active joints than species that catch mobile prey (e.g. insects). It is hypothesized that there is a functional trade‐off between energetic savings and maneuverability. Having fewer joints and muscles reduces the mass of the wing, thereby reducing the energetic requirements of flapping flight, and having more joints increases the assortment of possible 3D wing shapes, thereby enhancing the range and fine control of aerodynamic force production and thus maneuverability.
Toward understanding family‐related characteristics of young adults with sickle‐cell disease or sickle‐cell trait in the USA
Authors: Hershberger Patricia E , Gallo Agatha M , Molokie Robert , Thompson Alexis A , Suarez Marie L , Yao Yingwei , Dallas Constance M , Wilkie Diana J
Published: March 2016

Aims and objectives

To describe the family‐related characteristics of young adults with sickle‐cell disease or sickle‐cell trait prior to taking part in a randomised controlled trial on sickle‐cell reproductive health education.

Background

There is a critical need for educational programmes that target the reproductive needs of young adults with sickle‐cell disease or trait. However, little is known about the family‐related characteristics (i.e., demographic attributes and reproductive health behaviours) in which these young adults live.

Design

A descriptive cross‐sectional analysis.

Method

At study enrolment, 234 young adults (mean age = 25·9 years, 65% female) completed the SCKnowIQ questionnaire. Descriptive statistics depict the demographic attributes and reproductive health behaviours of young adults with sickle‐cell disease (n = 138) or trait (n = 96). For group comparisons, independent t tests or Fisher's tests were used, as appropriate.

Results

Young adults with sickle‐cell trait had significantly higher education, income and health insurance than those with sickle‐cell disease. Both groups believed that sickle‐cell disease was a severe condition. A majority of young adults with sickle‐cell disease (65%) had no children compared to 42% of those with sickle‐cell trait. Most young adults (85% sickle‐cell disease, 82% sickle‐cell trait) were not planning a pregnancy in the next six months, and many used condoms, withdrawal or oral contraceptives.

Conclusions

Socioeconomic disparities exist between young adults with sickle‐cell disease and sickle‐cell trait. Future research that advances education about how and when to communicate appropriate genetic risk information to partners and children especially for young adults with sickle‐cell trait would be beneficial.

Relevance to clinical practice

Awareness of the similarities and differences in the family‐related characteristics among young adults with sickle‐cell disease or trait can allow for more tailored reproductive education.
Social Justice, Research, and Adolescence
Authors: Russell Stephen T.
Published: March 2016

In what ways might research on adolescence contribute to social justice? My 2014 Presidential Address identified strategies for social justice in our field. First, we need research that is conscious of biases, power, and privilege in science, as well as in our roles as scholars. Second, we need research that attends to inequities in lives of adolescents, and as scholars we need to question the ways that our research may unwittingly reinforce those inequalities. Third, we need research that attends to urgencies, that is, issues or conditions that influence adolescents’ well‐being which demand attention and action. I draw from a range of concepts and theoretical perspectives to make the case for a framework of social justice in research on adolescence.
Green Technology and Optimal Emissions Taxation
Authors: McDONALD STUART , POYAGO‐THEOTOKY JOANNA
Published: March 2016

Unless an active environmental policy exists, firms have no incentive to engage in abatement or environmental R&D so policy design is of paramount importance. This design heavily depends on the way R&D spillovers operate. There are two distinct types of R&D spillover: output spillover and input spillover. An input spillover operates on the expenditure toward pollution reduction, whereas an output spillover manifests as the achieved abatement. Under optimal emissions taxation, significant differences arise due to this distinction, in particular, when the spillover operates on R&D inputs. In an oligopolistic setting, the result is higher R&D expenditure, but also higher aggregate emissions and, consequently, higher emissions taxes. By contrast, when spillovers occur in R&D output, there is a U‐shaped relationship between the optimal tax and the spillover, showing a trade‐off between the optimal tax rate and spillovers when these are low. In terms of the relative effectiveness of different R&D organization setups, combining emissions taxes with R&D cooperation, this paper shows that under low levels of R&D spillover R&D cooperation gives higher emissions reductions, whereas when spillovers are high this is not the case.
MICRO‐ AND NANOPORES IN TIGHT ZECHSTEIN 2 CARBONATE FACIES FROM THE SOUTHERN PERMIAN BASIN, NW EUROPE
Authors: Słowakiewicz M. , Perri E. , Tucker Maurice E.
Published: March 2016

The study evaluates pore systems in samples of tight Upper Permian Zechstein 2 Carbonate (Z2C) facies from widely dispersed locations in the eastern and western parts of the Southern Permian Basin, NW Europe. Samples of Z2C drill cores comprising platform to shallow‐basin deposits were examined by petrographic techniques, porosity measurement and SEM analysis, in order to acquire a better understanding of porosity development and pore microstructure. Four carbonate lithofacies were identified by core‐scale and thin‐section analyses: subtidal / intertidal planar stromatolites and thrombolites; slope facies (laminated dolo‐ and lime‐mudstones and grain‐dominated turbidites); toe‐of‐slope / lower slope facies (laminated lime mudstones with turbidite beds); and shallow‐basin (embayment) facies (laminated lime mudstones and hemipelagic deposits). Porosity ranges from 0.08% to 9.6% and is lowest in the subtidal / intertidal planar and columnar stromatolites. The highest porosities, in the slope and shallow‐basin (embayment) lithofacies, probably resulted from catagenetic processes and microbial activity. High porosity in subtidal thrombolites is related to the original pore network. SEM analyses showed that pores are present within organic matter, pyrite framboids and microfossils, and between crystals. Subtidal / intertidal planar and columnar stromatolites and thrombolites have a high proportion of nanopores, probably resulting from microbial activity. Although porosity development is a combined function of the presence of organic matter and mineral components, together with sediment fabric and fractures, it is mostly a result of the early diagenetic transformation of mineral phases, microbial activity, and evaporite and carbonate dissolution.
Exogenous hydrogen sulphide ameliorates diabetic cardiomyopathy in rats by reversing disordered calcium-handling system in sarcoplasmic reticulum
Authors: Cheng Yu-Si , Dai De-Zai , Dai Yin , Zhu Dong-Dong , Liu Bi-Cheng
Published: March 2016

Objectives

Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) has been found to be involved in cardiovascular diseases, but the exact mechanism has not been clarified. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether sodium hydrogen sulphide (NaHS), the donor of H2S, can improve diabetic cardiomyopathy by reversing disordered calcium-handling system in sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR).

Methods

Sprague Dawley rats were injected with streptozotocin (STZ, 60 mg/kg, i.p.) to build diabetic model. Treatment groups included: aminoguanidine group (AG, 100 mg/kg, p.o.) and NaHS group (5 mg/kg per day, s.c.).

Key findings

Cardiac dysfunction and myocardial hypertrophy were found in diabetic model (DM) group, along with increased ROS levels and upregulated mRNA and protein expressions of NADPH p22phox, endothelin A receptor (ETA) and protein kinase Cε (PKCε). Expressions of calcium-handling proteins in SR including FK506-binding proteins (FKBP12.6), sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA2a) and calsequestrin 2 (CASQ2) were downregulated in DM group, accompanied by elevated concentration of diastolic free calcium in high glucose-incubated cardiomyocytes, indicating of calcium leak. After treated by NaHS, these abnormalities were attenuated significantly.

Conclusions

Exogenous H2S played a protective role in diabetic cardiomyopathy by inhibiting abnormal calcium-handling system in SR and ET-NADPH oxidase-PKCε pathway.
Comparison of Serum Spec fPL™and 1,2‐o‐Dilauryl‐Rac‐Glycero‐3‐Glutaric Acid‐(6′‐Methylresorufin) Ester Assay in 60 Cats Using Standardized Assessment of Pancreatic Histology
Authors: Oppliger S. , Hilbe M. , Hartnack S. , Zini E. , Reusch C.E. , Kook P.H.
Published: March 2016

Background

Feline pancreas‐specific lipase (SpecfPL) is considered a useful test for the antemortem diagnosis of pancreatitis in cats. A recent study found good agreement between the results of the SpecfPLand catalytic 1,2‐o‐dilauryl‐rac‐glycero‐3‐glutaric acid‐(6′‐methylresorufin) ester (DGGR) lipase assay. Prospective studies evaluating their sensitivity and specificity are lacking.

Objectives

To compare the results of the SpecfPLand theDGGRassays with a standardized histologic assessment of the pancreas.

Animals

Sixty client‐owned cats presented for necropsy.

Methods

Prospective study: SpecfPLconcentrations and serumDGGRlipase activity were measured from the same blood sample. The pancreas was removed within 3 hours after euthanasia; serial transverse sections were made every 0.5 cm throughout the entire pancreas and reviewed using a histologic grading scheme. Sensitivity and specificity for the SpecfPLandDGGRassay results were determined.

Results

The sensitivity and specificity for the SpecfPLassay (cutoff value ≥5.4 μg/L) was 42.1 [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 29.4–55.9%] and 100% (95% CI, 31.0–100.0%). The sensitivity and specificity for theDGGRassay (cutoff value >26 U/L) was 36.8 (95% CI, 24.7–50.7%) and 100% (95% CI, 31.0–100.0%). When lymphocytic inflammation up to 10% of a section was considered normal, the sensitivity and specificity for SpecfPLassay (cutoff value ≥5.4 μg/L) was 61.1 (95% CI, 36.1–81.7%) and 69.0% (95% CI, 52.8–81.9%) and the sensitivity and specificity for theDGGRassay (cutoff value >26 U/L) was 66.7 (95% CI, 41.2–85.6%) and 78.6% (95% CI, 62.8–89.2%).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Both lipase assays performed similarly well, but their agreement with histologic pancreatic inflammation was limited.
Anti‐platelet therapy in small animal medicine
Authors: Thomason J. , Lunsford K. , Mackin A.
Published: March 2016

Thromboembolism is a significant complication in many commonly encountered diseases, and can be a devastating sequel to otherwise treatable conditions. Platelets play an essential role in the hemostatic process and, consequently, are associated with thrombus formation. Platelets adhere to denuded vascular subendothelium, recruit additional platelets and cells, aggregate, and provide the catalytic surface for thrombin production and fibrin formation. Therapy to prevent unwanted thrombus formation and thromboembolic crises is essential in the management of hypercoagulable patients. Unfortunately, many of the medications used in veterinary medicine that inhibit or modulate coagulation factors, such as the heparins, are cost prohibitive, only effective when administered by injection or require frequent drug monitoring, and are therefore poor choices for long term at home therapy. While the role of the platelet in pathologic thrombus formation is not fully understood, veterinarians often resort to anti‐platelet therapy in the management of patients at risk for thromboembolic complications, because many anti‐platelet medications are inexpensive, require minimal drug monitoring, and can be given orally. The aim of this review is to discuss the anti‐platelet therapies that are currently being used or being considered for use to inhibit platelet function and reduce thromboembolic complications in hypercoagulable dogs and cats.
Authors and citizens: sociological imagination and the writing of evidence‐based argument
Authors: Jaeger Elizabeth L.
Published: March 2016

Educational standards documents worldwide include reading and writing of evidence‐based argument as a major focus. In order to help students craft arguments that will be considered seriously by those with the power to make changes that affect them, educators need to cultivate within students their sociological imagination ‐ that is, an understanding of the ways in which they are influenced by, but can also influence social structures. This article describes a study in which fourth‐grade students (ages 9–10 years) considered issues that were of concern to them and to which audiences they might best address these concerns. They also learned the rhetorical structures required to effectively communicate their recommendations. Data collected include planning documents, rough and final drafts and interview transcripts. Students demonstrated success in a range of areas: grasping the concept of sociological imagination, mastering genre format and assuming roles as citizens of a democracy.
Liver biopsy for diagnosis of presumed benign hepatocellular lesions lacking magnetic resonance imaging diagnostic features of focal nodular hyperplasia
Authors: Sannier Aurélie , Cazejust Julien , Lequoy Marie , Cervera Pascale , Scatton Olivier , Rosmorduc Olivier , Wendum Dominique
Published: March 2016

Background & Aims

The contribution of liver biopsy for the diagnosis of presumed benign hepatocellular lesions lacking the diagnostic features of focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is unknown. We evaluated liver biopsy and MRI performances in this setting.

Methods

Magnetic resonance imaging and slides of liver biopsies performed for a presumed benign hepatocellular lesion (2006–2013) without the typical features of FNH on MRI were blindly reviewed (n = 45). Eighteen lesions were surgically removed and also analyzed. The final diagnosis was the diagnosis established after surgery or on the biopsy in the absence of surgery.

Results

The final diagnosis was FNH (n = 19), hepatocellular adenoma (HCA, n = 15), hepatocellular carcinoma (n = 3) and indefinite (n = 4). Four lesions corresponded to non hepatocellular lesions. FNH, HNF1A mutated and inflammatory HCA were diagnosed accurately on the biopsy in 95%, 67% and 100% of the cases respectively. Diagnostic performance of liver biopsy for HNF1A mutated HCA was lower because of the lack of non‐tumoral tissue. Diagnosis based on morphological analysis was certain and correct in 27 cases. Immunostaining allowed a definite diagnosis in 12 additionnal cases. Radiological diagnosis was in agreement with the histological diagnosis in 75.6% of the cases, with a very high sensitivity (97%) and specificity (100%) for the diagnosis of HNF1A mutated HCA.

Conclusions

Liver biopsy has a good diagnostic performance particularly for FNH and inflammatory HCA, and sampling of non‐lesional tissue is highly recommended. A biopsy does not seem necessary if H‐HCA is diagnosed on MRI.
Constraints on the water, chlorine, and fluorine content of the Martian mantle
Authors: Filiberto Justin , Gross Juliane , McCubbin Francis M.
Published: March 2016

Previous estimates of the volatile contents of Martian basalts, and hence their source regions, ranged from nearly volatile‐free through estimates similar to those found in terrestrial subduction zones. Here, we use the bulk chemistry of Martian meteorites, along with Martian apatite and amphibole chemistry, to constrain the volatile contents of the Martian interior. Our estimates show that the volatile content of the source region for the Martian meteorites is similar to the terrestrial Mid‐Ocean‐Ridge Mantle source. Chlorine is enriched compared with the depleted terrestrial mantle but is similar to the terrestrial enriched source region; fluorine is similar to the terrestrial primitive mantle; and water is consistent with the terrestrial mantle. Our results show that Martian magmas were not volatile saturated; had water/chlorine and water/fluorine ratios ~0.4–18; and are most similar, in terms of volatiles, to terrestrial MORBs. Presumably, there are variations in volatile content in the Martian interior as suggested by apatite compositions, but more bulk chemical data, especially for fluorine and water, are required to investigate these variations. Finally, the Noachian Martian interior, as exemplified by surface basalts and NWA 7034, may have had higher volatile contents.
Granular swollen epithelial cells in the kidney allograft: A clinicopathological study with special emphasis on possible marker for kidney allograft aging
Authors: Hara Shigeo , Ishimura Takeshi , Fujisawa Masato , Nishi Shinichi , Itoh Tomoo
Published: March 2016

Aim

To elucidate the clinicopathological significance of granular swollen epithelial cells (GSECs), which provides histological evidence in the diagnosis of mitochondrial nephropathy, but incidentally observed in renal allografts, we evaluated GSECs as a surrogate histological marker for kidney allograft aging, as previously reported for p16, p21, and β‐galactosidase.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 426 kidney allograft biopsy specimens diagnosed at our university from January 2009 to April 2015. The prevalence and density of GSECs were compared with an age‐matched control group of 508 native kidney biopsies. GSECs were defined as swollen (>2 times larger than normal renal tubular cells) epithelial cells best observed using Masson trichrome staining. Morphometric analyses were performed using digital microscopy software.

Results

The prevalence of GSECs was 7.7% in allograft kidneys and 8.1% in native kidneys. GSECs in kidney allografts were predominantly detected in medullary renal tubules, but not in the Bowman's capsular epithelium or podocytes. GSECs were observed in the following cases; no remarkable changes, n = 11; interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy, n = 7; chronic calcineurin inhibitor toxicity, n = 5; antibody‐mediated rejection, n = 3; T cell‐mediated rejection grade IA, n = 1; and others, n = 6. Compared with control specimens, medullary density of GSECs in kidney allografts was significantly increased. The prevalence of GSECs slightly increased with post‐transplant duration; however, this trend was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

The present study does not provide pathological significance of GSEC in kidney allografts in terms of allograft aging, and warrant the further research with molecular approach.
Interstitial fibrosis is the critical determinant of impaired renal function in transplant glomerulopathy
Authors: Toki Daisuke , Inui Masashi , Ishida Hideki , Okumi Masayoshi , Shimizu Tomokazu , Shirakawa Hiroki , Omoto Kazuya , Unagami Kohei , Setoguchi Kiyoshi , Koike Junki , Honda Kazuho , Yamaguchi Yutaka , Tanabe Kazunari
Published: March 2016

Aim

Transplant glomerulopathy (TG) is a feature of chronic antibody‐mediated injury in the glomerular capillaries in renal transplant recipients. TG is generally associated with proteinuria; however, renal function at the diagnosis of TG varies. This study aimed to determine which morphological abnormalities are associated with renal function and proteinuria at the diagnosis of TG.

Methods

A total of 871 renal transplantations were performed at Tokyo Women's Medical University between 2005 and 2013. TG was diagnosed in 127 biopsies from 58 (6.7%) recipients. Renal function was evaluated by the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Proteinuria was assessed by a dipstick test: positive for +1 and over.

Results

At diagnosis, of 127 biopsies, 72, 37, and 18 had mild, moderate, and severe TG (Banff cg). The severity of TG was not associated with decreased eGFR at the time of biopsy (cg1: 36.1 ± 14.8, cg2‐3: 38.8 ± 14.5 mL/min per 1.73 m2, P = 0.25), whereas the severity of interstitial fibrosis (IF) (Banff ci) was significantly associated with decreased eGFR (ci0‐1: 42.75 ± 13.32, ci2‐3: 27.69 ± 11.94 mL/min per 1.73 m2, P < 0.0001). The multivariate analysis revealed that IF was the only independent risk factors for decreased eGFR (OR = 4.38, P = 0.0006). Meanwhile, TG was identified as the only independent risk factor for the incidence of proteinuria (OR = 2.67, P = 0.014).

Conclusion

Interstitial fibrosis was a critical determinant of impaired renal function at the diagnosis of TG. The severity of TG was significantly associated with proteinuria, but did not contribute to renal dysfunction.
Thrombotic microangiopathy caused by oral contraceptives in a kidney transplant recipient
Authors: Shirai Hiroyuki , Yashima Jun , Tojimbara Tamotsu , Honda Kazuho
Published: March 2016

Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) after kidney transplantation has various aetiologies, including acute antibody‐mediated rejection, bacterial or viral infection and immunosuppressive drugs, particularly calcineurin inhibitors. We present the case of a 28‐year‐old woman who developed TMA 30 months after the transplantation of an ABO‐incompatible kidney from a living unrelated donor. The patient developed a sudden onset of allograft renal dysfunction and became uremic. She was transferred to our institution from a community hospital with strongly suspected acute allograft rejection. Intensive treatments for both T‐ and B‐cell mediated acute rejection, including steroid pulse therapy, double‐filtration plasmapheresis, antithymocyte globulin (1.5 mg/kg × 14 days) and rituximab (100 mg), were initiated during haemodialysis. However, her renal allograft function did not improve. Histopathological analysis 8 days after the treatment indicated TMA, despite the absence of apparent acute T‐cell‐ or acute antibody‐mediated rejection. There were no symptoms of infectious diseases, such as intestinal haemorrhagic colitis or viral infection. We concluded that the use of oral contraceptives, which had been initiated 3 weeks before TMA onset for the treatment of irregular vaginal bleeding, was the aetiologic agent.
Behavioral variant of frontotemporal dementia: Fundamental clinical issues associated with prediction of pathological bases
Authors: Miki Tomoko , Yokota Osamu , Ishizu Hideki , Kuroda Shigetoshi , Oshima Etsuko , Terada Seishi , Yamada Norihito
Published: March 2016

Behavioral variant of frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) is a clinical syndrome characterized mainly by behavioral symptoms due to frontal dysfunction. Major neurodegenerative bases of bvFTD include Pick's disease, frontotemporal lobar degeneration with trans‐activation response DNA protein 43‐positive inclusions, corticobasal degeneration, and progressive supranuclear palsy. Early disinhibition characterized by socially inappropriate behaviors, loss of manners, and impulsive, rash and careless actions is the most important clinical feature of bvFTD. On the other hand, it was reported that clinical presentations of some Alzheimer's disease cases and patients with psychiatric disorders (e.g., addictive disorders, gambling disorder and kleptomania) often resemble that of bvFTD. Although clinical differentiation of ‘true’ bvFTD cases with frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) pathology from mimicking cases without it is not always easy, evaluation of the following features, which were noted in autopsy‐confirmed FTLD cases and/or clinical bvFTD cases with circumscribed lobar atrophy, may often provide clues for the diagnosis. (i) The initial symptoms frequently develop at 65 years or younger, and (ii) ‘socially inappropriate behaviors’ can be frequently interpreted as contextually inappropriate behaviors prompted by environmental visual and auditory stimuli. Taking a detailed history usually reveals various kinds of such behaviors in various situations in everyday life rather than the repetition of a single kind of behavior (e.g., repeated shoplifting). (iii) A correlation between the distribution of cerebral atrophy and neurological and behavioral symptoms is usually observed, and the proportion of FTLD cases with right side‐predominant cerebral atrophy may be higher in a psychiatric setting than a neurological setting. Finally, (iv) whether the previous course and the combination of symptoms observed at the first medical visit can be explained by major evolution patterns of clinical syndromes in pathologically confirmed FTLD cases should be considered. These views may provide clues to differentiate FTLD from Alzheimer's disease and to predict a subsequent clinical course and therapeutic interventions needed in the future.
Synchronized functional anal sphincter assessment: maximizing the potential of anal vector manometry and 3‐D anal endosonography
Authors: Schizas A. M. P. , Ahmad A. N. , Emmanuel A. V. , Williams A. B.
Published: March 2016

Background

Understanding the association between structure and function is vital before considering surgery involving anal sphincter division. By correlating three‐dimensional anal endosonography (AES) and three‐dimensional anal canal vector volume manometry (VVM), this study details a method to produce measurements of both sphincter length and pressure leading to identification of the functionally important areas of the anal canal. The aim of this study was to provide combined detailed information on anal canal anatomy and physiology.

Methods

Twelve males and 12 nulliparous females with no bowel symptoms underwent VVM (using a water‐perfused, eight‐channel radially arranged catheter) and AES.

Key Results

The synchronization of AES and VVM identified that the majority of rest and squeeze anal pressure is present in the portion of the anal canal covered by both anal sphincters. Nearly, 20% of overall resting anal pressure is produced distal to the caudal termination of the internal anal sphincter. Puborectalis accounts for a significantly greater percentage volume of pressure in females both at rest and when squeezing, though the total volume of pressure is not significantly greater.

Conclusions and Inferences

The majority of resting and squeezing pressure and the least asymmetry, in both sexes, is in the portion of the anal canal covered by external anal sphincter. In females, the external anal sphincter is shorter and a proportionately longer puborectalis accounts for a greater percentage of pressure. Sphincter targeted fistula surgery in females must be performed with special caution. A protective role for puborectalis following obstetric anal sphincter injury is suggested.
Vitamin B1 (thiamine) and dementia
Authors: Gibson Gary E. , Hirsch Joseph A. , Fonzetti Pasquale , Jordan Barry D. , Cirio Rosanna T. , Elder Jessica
Published: March 2016

The earliest and perhaps best example of an interaction between nutrition and dementia is related to thiamine (vitamin B1). Throughout the last century, research showed that thiamine deficiency is associated with neurological problems, including cognitive deficits and encephalopathy. Multiple similarities exist between classical thiamine deficiency and Alzheimer's disease (AD) in that both are associated with cognitive deficits and reductions in brain glucose metabolism. Thiamine‐dependent enzymes are critical components of glucose metabolism that are reduced in the brains of AD patients and by thiamine decline, and a decrease in their levels could account for the reduction in glucose metabolism. In preclinical models, reduced thiamine can drive AD‐like abnormalities, including memory deficits, neuritic plaques, and hyperphosphorylation of tau. Furthermore, excess thiamine diminishes AD‐like pathologies. In addition to dietary deficits, drugs or other manipulations that interfere with thiamine absorption can cause thiamine deficiency. Elucidating the reasons why the brains of AD patients are functionally thiamine deficient and determining the effects of thiamine restoration may provide critical information to help treat patients with AD.
A large developing complex odontome
Authors: Amin K. , Jay A. , Ayliffe P.
Published: March 2016

Odontomas are the most common odontogenic hamartomas, broadly classified as compound or complex of which the latter is less common. Complex odontoma is a lesion in which all the dental hard tissues are represented but occur in a disorderly pattern. They are usually asymptomatic and diagnosed on radiographic examination. We report a rare case of a large developing complex odontoma in a young girl causing expansion of bone and facial asymmetry with the failure of eruption of several mandibular posterior teeth. The odontoma was treated by careful surgical curettage, marginal mandibular rim resection and bone grafting. Follow‐up over a couple of years revealed no evidence of recurrence.
Combined Left Atrial Appendage Closure and Pacemaker Implant through a Single Right Femoral Vein Access
Authors: REGOLI FRANÇOIS , MOCCETTI TIZIANO , PASOTTI ELENA , AURICCHIO ANGELO , MOCCETTI MARCO
Published: March 2016

Left atrial appendage (LAA) closure is indicated in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and high bleeding as well as thromboembolic risks. A subgroup of these patients may also present an indication for a single‐chamber permanent pacemaker due to symptomatic low‐rate AF or when “ablate and pace” strategy is indicated for rate control. A miniaturized wireless transcatheter pacing system (TPS) is now available as a single‐chamber permanent pacemaker. This case presents how combined LAA closure and permanent pacemaker implant, by means of TPS, is feasible through a single femoral venous access.
Ectopic expression of a cytochrome P450 monooxygenase gene PtCYP714A3 from Populus trichocarpa reduces shoot growth and improves tolerance to salt stress in transgenic rice
Authors: Wang Cuiting , Yang Yang , Wang Haihai , Ran Xiaojuan , Li Bei , Zhang Jiantao , Zhang Hongxia
Published: March 2016

In Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa, the cytochrome P450 (CYP) 714 protein family represents a unique group of CYP monooxygenase, which functions as a shoot‐specific regulator in plant development through gibberellin deactivation. Here, we report the functional characterizations of PtCYP714A3, an OsCYP714D1/Eui homologue from Populus trichocarpa. PtCYP714A3 was ubiquitously expressed with the highest transcript level in cambium–phloem tissues, and was greatly induced by salt and osmotic stress in poplar. Subcellular localization analyses indicated that PtCYP714A3‐YFP fusion protein was targeted to endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Expression of PtCYP714A3 in the rice eui mutant could rescue its excessive‐shoot‐growth phenotype. Ectopic expression of PtCYP714A3 in rice led to semi‐dwarfed phenotype with promoted tillering and reduced seed size. Transgenic lines which showed significant expression of PtCYP714A3 also accumulated lower GA level than did the wild‐type (WT) plants. The expression of some GA biosynthesis genes was significantly suppressed in these transgenic plants. Furthermore, transgenic rice plants exhibited enhanced tolerance to salt and maintained more Na+ in both shoot and root tissues under salinity stress. All these results not only suggest a crucial role of PtCYP714A3 in shoot responses to salt toxicity in rice, but also provide a molecular basis for genetic engineering of salt‐tolerant crops.
Three‐year trend survey of psychological distress, post‐traumatic stress, and problem drinking among residents in the evacuation zone after the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident [The Fukushima Health Management Survey]
Authors: Oe Misari , Fujii Senta , Maeda Masaharu , Nagai Masato , Harigane Mayumi , Miura Itaru , Yabe Hirooki , Ohira Tetsuya , Takahashi Hideto , Suzuki Yuriko , Yasumura Seiji , Abe Masafumi
Published: March 2016

Aim

Prolonged periods of instability in terms of living environment can lead to a serious increase in mental health issues among disaster‐affected individuals. The aim of this study was to assess long‐term trends in mental health among adult residents in a nuclear‐disaster‐affected area.

Methods

Mail‐based, self‐administered questionnaire surveys were conducted three times (T1–T3), targeting all residents registered with the municipalities in the evacuation zone in Fukushima prefecture at the time of the disaster. Age‐adjusted prevalences of the following were analyzed by sex: risk of psychological distress by the Kessler 6‐item Scale, post‐traumatic stress by the Post‐traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist, and problem drinking by CAGE.

Results

The numbers of respondents and response rates were: 73 568, 40.7% (T1); 55 076, 29.9% (T2); and 46 386, 25.0% (T3). Compared with normal Japanese levels in non‐disaster settings (4.7%), the prevalence of general psychological distress by Kessler 6‐item Scale ≥ 13 was still high 3 years after the event in both men (11.4%) and women (15.8%). Although the age‐adjusted prevalence of psychological distress and post‐traumatic stress (Post‐traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist ≥ 44) had decreased over time (from 19.0% [T1] to 17.8% [T3] for men, and from 25.3% [T1] to 23.3% [T3] for women), the age‐adjusted prevalence of problem drinking (CAGE ≥ 2) remained steady in both men (20.7% [T2] and 20.4% [T3]; P = 0.18) and women (10.5% [T2] and 10.5% [T3];
P
= 0.91).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that long‐term interventions focused on post‐traumatic stress as well as other mental health problems are strongly needed for disaster‐affected individuals.
Increased oxidative stress in patients with severe disability: Association with nutrition
Authors: Kawaguchi Chiharu , Morinaga Marie , Kubota Masaru , Saito Hiromi , Tomiwa Kiyotaka , Uchiike Nobuo
Published: March 2016

Background

Previous studies have described a role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of various pediatric disorders, but investigation into oxidative stress status in patients with severe disability remains limited. The aim of the present study was therefore to clarify the oxidative stress status in patients with severe disability, focusing specifically on intake of three major nutrients and micronutrients with antioxidant activities.

Methods

Thirty‐one patients with severe disability (mean age, 14.1 ± 7.8 years) were enrolled. Three in vivo biomarkers, plasma biological antioxidant potential (BAP), plasma reactive oxygen metabolite‐derived compounds (d‐ROM), and urinary 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG), were determined for evaluating oxidative status. The dietary intake of three major nutrients and various micronutrients was estimated from dietary records over a 3 day period.

Results

In patients with severe disability, BAP was significantly lower and d‐ROM and 8‐OHdG significantly higher than in historical controls. Among these markers, a significant positive correlation was found in BAP versus d‐ROM and d‐ROM versus 8‐OHdG. On multiple regression analysis, a significant inverse association between 8‐OHdG and carotenoid intake was seen.

Conclusion

The oxidative/antioxidative balance shifts towards oxidative status dominance in patients with severe disability. More research is needed on nutritional intake of antioxidative nutrients to determine whether they can be used to reduce oxidative stress.
“I don't want to be near you, unless…”: The interactive effect of unethical behavior and performance onto relationship conflict and workplace ostracism
Authors: Quade Matthew J. , Greenbaum Rebecca L. , Petrenko Oleg V.
Published: March 2016

Examined through the lens of moral psychology, we investigate when and why employees’ unethical behaviors may be tolerated versus rejected. Specifically, we examine the interactive effect of employees’ unethical behaviors and job performance onto relationship conflict, and whether such conflict eventuates in workplace ostracism. Although employees’ unethical behaviors typically go against moral norms, high job performance may provide a motivated reason to ignore moral violations. In this regard, we predict that job performance will mitigate the relationship between employee unethical behavior and workplace ostracism, as mediated by relationship conflict. Study 1, a multisource field study, tests and provides support for Hypotheses 1 and 2. Study 2, also a multisource field study, provides support for our fully specified model. Study 3, a time‐lagged field study, provides support for our theoretical model while controlling for employees’ negative affectivity and ethical environment. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Functional and Photochemical Characterization of a Light‐Driven Proton Pump from the Gammaproteobacterium Pantoea vagans
Authors: Sudo Yuki , Yoshizawa Susumu
Published: March 2016

Photoactive retinal proteins are widely distributed throughout the domains of the microbial world (i.e., bacteria, archaea, and eukarya). Here we describe three retinal proteins belonging to a phylogenetic clade with a unique DTG motif. Light‐induced decrease in the environmental pH and its inhibition by carbonyl cyanide m‐chlorophenylhydrazone revealed that these retinal proteins function as light‐driven outward electrogenic proton pumps. We further characterized one of these proteins, Pantoea vagans rhodopsin (PvR), spectroscopically. Visible spectroscopy and high‐performance liquid chromatography revealed that PvR has an absorption maximum at 538 nm with the retinal chromophore predominantly in the all‐trans form (>90%) under both dark and light conditions. We estimated the pKa values of the protonated Schiff base of the retinal chromophore and its counterion as approximately 13.5 and 2.1, respectively, by using pH titration experiments, and the photochemical reaction cycle of PvR was measured by time‐resolved flash‐photolysis in the millisecond timeframe. We observed a blue‐shifted and a red‐shifted intermediate, which we assigned as M‐like and O‐like intermediates, respectively. Decay of the M‐like intermediate was highly sensitive to environmental pH, suggesting that proton uptake is coupled to decay of the M‐like intermediate. From these results, we propose a putative model for the photoreaction of PvR.
Molecular pathogenesis of human amyloidosis: Lessons from β2‐microglobulin‐related amyloidosis
Authors: Naiki Hironobu , Okoshi Tadakazu , Ozawa Daisaku , Yamaguchi Itaru , Hasegawa Kazuhiro
Published: March 2016

Amyloidosis refers to a group of diseases with amyloid fibrils deposited in various organs and is classified into more than 30 diseases in humans based on the kind of amyloid protein. In order to elucidate the molecular pathogenesis of human amyloidosis, we studied the molecular mechanism of amyloid fibril formation in vitro. We first developed a novel fluorometric method to determine amyloid fibrils in vitro based on the unique characteristics of thioflavin T. We next proposed a nucleation‐dependent polymerization model to explain the general mechanism of amyloid fibril formation in vitro. Based on this model, we characterized the biological molecular interactions that promote or inhibit amyloid fibril formation in vitro and developed models of pathological molecular environment for inducing human β2‐microglobulin‐related amyloidosis in long‐term hemodialysis patients. We also proposed a novel and attractive cytotoxic mechanism of β2‐microglobulin amyloid fibrils, that is, the disruption of endosomal/lysosomal membranes by endocytosed amyloid fibrils. These findings may be useful to elucidate the molecular pathogenesis of other kinds of human amyloidosis.
Ontological Security and Public (Mis)Recognition of International Crises: Uncertainty, Political Imagining, and the Self
Authors: Chernobrov Dmitry
Published: March 2016

Public narratives of unexpected international events frequently help (re)imagine uncertainty as something familiar or predictable. This process underlies social and political responses and is deeply significant in relation to identity and boundary security. I propose to read early perceptions of international crises through a reformulation of ontological security principles that find motivation for behavior in self‐identity needs. Political imagining is shown to seek continuous self‐concepts and to routinize new encounters within familiar and self‐affirming frames. This article suggests a new approach to ontological continuity: instead of an unchanging narrative, its security may rest in a continuously positive version of the self, with narratives of others balancing and securing the relationship. In the second half of the article, I draw on interviews about the “Arab Spring” to show how illusions of recognizing unexpected events and the political imagining this produces can be motivated by self‐concepts in need of security.
Mental health among younger and older caregivers of dementia patients
Authors: Koyama Asuka , Matsushita Masateru , Hashimoto Mamoru , Fujise Noboru , Ishikawa Tomohisa , Tanaka Hibiki , Hatada Yutaka , Miyagawa Yusuke , Hotta Maki , Ikeda Manabu
Published: March 2016

Aim

Caregiver burden in dementia is an important issue, but few studies have examined the mental health of younger and older family caregivers by comparing them with age‐ and gender‐matched community residents. We aimed to compare the mental health of dementia caregivers with that of community residents and to clarify factors related to mental health problems in younger and older caregivers.

Methods

We studied 104 dementia caregivers; 46 were younger (<65 years) and 58 were older (≥65 years). A total of 104 community residents who were matched for age and gender were selected. We compared depression (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale for younger participants; Geriatric Depression Scale for older participants), health‐related quality of life (QOL) short‐form health survey (SF‐8), sleep problems, and suicidal ideation between the caregivers and community residents by age. Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia, activities of daily living (ADL), and instrumental ADL were assessed among patients with dementia using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory, Physical Self‐Maintenance Scale, and Lawton Instrumental ADL Scale, respectively.

Results

According to SF‐8 results, both younger and older caregivers had significantly worse mental QOL than community residents (younger caregivers: 46.3 vs community residents: 49.7, P = 0.017; older caregivers: 48.2 vs community residents: 51.1, P = 0.024) but were not more depressive. Sleep problems were significantly more frequent in younger caregivers (39.1%) than in community residents (17.0%) (P = 0.017). Multiple regression analysis revealed that caregivers’ deteriorated mental QOL was associated with patients’ behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia in younger caregivers and with dementia patients’ instrumental ADL and female gender in older caregivers.

Conclusions

Dementia caregivers had a lower mental QOL than community residents. To maintain caregivers’ mental QOL, it is necessary to provide younger caregivers with skills or professional interventions for dealing with behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia, and older caregivers must be offered adequate care support.