bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased frequency of the rs2066853 variant of aryl hydrocarbon receptor gene in patients with acromegaly
Authors: Cannavo S. , Ferrau F. , Ragonese M. , Romeo P. D. , Torre M. L. , Puglisi S. , De Menis E. , Arnaldi G. , Salpietro C. , Cotta O. R. , Albani A. , Ruggeri R. M. , Trimarchi F.
Published: February 2014

Context

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) pathway has a key role in cellular detoxification mechanisms and seems implicated in tumorigenesis. Moreover, polymorphisms and mutations of AHR gene have been associated with several human and animal tumours. Although AHR has been found differently expressed in pituitary adenomas, AHR gene mutation status has never been investigated in acromegalic patients.

Design

In this study, we evaluated patients with apparently sporadic GH‐secreting pituitary adenoma for AHR gene variants.

Patients and Methods

Seventy patients with sporadic GH‐secreting pituitary adenoma (M = 27, age 59·1 ± 1·6 years) and 157 sex‐ and age‐matched controls were enrolled in the study. In all patients and controls, the exons 1, 2, 3, 5 and 10 of AHR gene were evaluated for nucleotide variants by sequencing analysis.

Results

The rs2066853 polymorphism was identified in the exon 10 of 18/70 acromegalic patients and 9/157 healthy subjects (25·7 vs. 5·7%, χ2 = 18·98 P < 0·0001), in homozygosis in one patient and in heterozygosis in the other 17 and in the 9 healthy subjects. Moreover, a heterozygous rs4986826 variant in exon 10 was identified in a patient with heterozygous rs2066853 polymorphism, and in the patient with homozygous rs2066853 variant. This second polymorphism was not detected in the control group. Patients with rs2066853 polymorphism showed increased IGF‐1 ULN (P < 0·05) and prevalence of cavernous sinus invasion (P = 0·05), thyroid (P = 0·02), bladder (P = 0·0001) or lymphohematopoietic (P < 0·05) tumours.

Conclusions

AHR gene rs2066853 polymorphism is significantly more frequent in acromegalic patients than in healthy subjects and is associated with increased disease aggressivity. Moreover, the rs4986826 variant was detected in few patients with rs2066853 polymorphism, but its role is to be cleared.
Healing at implant sites prepared conventionally or by means of Sonosurgery®. An experimental study in dogs
Authors: Viganò Paolo , Botticelli Daniele , Salata Luiz A. , Schweikert Michael T. , Urbizo Velez Joaquin , Lang Niklaus P.
Published: February 2014

Objective

To compare peri‐implant tissue healing at implants installed in sites prepared with conventional drills or a sonic device.

Material and methods

In six Beagle dogs, the mandibular premolars and first molars were extracted bilaterally. After 3 months, full‐thickness muco‐periosteal flaps were elevated and recipient sites were prepared in both sides of the mandible. In the right side (control), the osteotomies were prepared using conventional drills, while, at the left side (test), a sonic device (Sonosurgery®) was used. Two implants were installed in each side of the mandible. After 8 weeks of non‐submerged healing, biopsies were harvested and ground sections prepared for histological evaluation.

Results

The time consumed for the osteotomies at the test was more than double compared to the conventional control sites. No statistically significant differences were found for any of the histological variables evaluated for hard and soft tissue dimensions. Although not statistically significant, slightly higher mineralized bone‐to‐implant contact was found at the test (65.4%) compared to the control (58.1) sites.

Conclusions

Similar healing characteristics in osseointegration and marginal hard tissue remodeling resulted at implants installed into osteotomies prepared with conventional drills or with the sonic instrument (Sonosurgery®).
Changing Sources of Household Income, Poverty, and Sectoral Inequality in Sri Lanka, 1990–2006
Authors: Kumanayake Nandika S. , Estudillo Jonna P. , Otsuka Keijiro
Published: February 2014

Comparing dynamic changes in household income and poverty among urban, rural, and estate sectors in Sri Lanka from 1990 to 2006, this study finds that a shift of household income away from farm to nonfarm sources is accompanied by a significant improvement in household income and reduction in poverty, particularly in the rural sector. Major contributing factors are the rise in returns to labor, in general, and educated labor, in particular, due to the development of the nonfarm labor market. Persistently low income among estate households can be explained primarily by the limited availability of nonfarm employment opportunities and the low education levels of working members.
Cognitive Constructions of Low–Profit and High–Profit Business Models: A Repertory Grid Study of Serial Entrepreneurs
Authors: Malmström Malin , Johansson Jeaneth , Wincent Joakim
Published: February 2014

This study shows how the repertory grid methodology can be used to understand entrepreneurs’ cognitive construction of business models and evidence of entrepreneurs’ differential cognition of high–profit and low–profit business models. We show that entrepreneurs are more cognitively complex and more nuanced in constructing high–profit business models than low–profit business models. Furthermore, although they are perceived as meaningful, low–profit business models are characterized by relatively less clear cognitive constructions. This study suggests that the repertory grid technique may be useful for future research and entrepreneurship practice to understand the entrepreneurial cognition of business models.
Beyond vitiligo guidelines: combined stratified/personalized approaches for the vitiligo patient
Authors: Anbar Tag S. , Hegazy Rehab A. , Picardo Mauro , Taieb Alain
Published: February 2014

‘Vitiligo’ is a word that bears endless possibilities and no promises. Each vitiligo patient has a different story that demands a different therapeutic approach. Even though great efforts have been made to evaluate, study, compare and document the different therapeutic modalities available for vitiligo, clearly handling their modes of actions as well as their side effects and establishing clear stratified guidelines, numerous dilemmas are frequently met on practical grounds. ‘Stabilize’, ‘repigment’, ‘depigment’ or ‘camouflage’? ‘for whom and how do we achieve the best results’ ? ‘Separately or in combination ? – questions that need to be answered and decisions need to be taken in the appropriate timing and altered when the necessity arises. In the current viewpoint, we have utilized the available knowledge and exploited years of experience in an attempt to go beyond the guidelines to set the rationale for an optimal and personalized therapy, within the framework of a stratified approach.
Does prostaglandin D2 hold the cure to male pattern baldness?
Authors: Nieves Ashley , Garza Luis A.
Published: February 2014

Lipids in the skin are the most diverse in the entire human body. Their bioactivity in health and disease is underexplored. Prostaglandin D2 has recently been identified as a factor which is elevated in the bald scalp of men with androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and has the capacity to decrease hair lengthening. An enzyme which synthesizes it, prostaglandin D2 synthase (PTGDS or lipocalin‐PGDS), is hormone responsive in multiple other organs. PGD2 has two known receptors, GPR44 and PTGDR. GPR44 was found to be necessary for the decrease in hair growth by PGD2. This creates an exciting opportunity to perhaps create novel treatments for AGA, which inhibit the activity of PTGDS, PGD2 or GPR44. This review discusses the current knowledge surrounding PGD2, and future steps needed to translate these findings into novel therapies for patients with AGA.
Symbolic sequence learning is associated with cognitive–affective profiles in female FMR1 premutation carriers
Authors: Kraan C. M. , Hocking D. R. , Bradshaw J. L. , Georgiou‐Karistianis N. , Metcalfe S. A. , Archibald A. D. , Fielding J. , Trollor J. , Cohen J. , Cornish K. M.
Published: February 2014

This study examines implicit sequence learning impairments that may indicate at‐risk cerebellar profiles proposed to underlie some aspects of subtle cognitive and affective dysfunctions found among female fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) premutation (PM)‐carriers. A total of 34 female PM‐carriers and 33 age‐ and intelligence‐matched controls completed an implicit symbolically primed serial reaction time task (SRTT) previously shown to be sensitive to cerebellar involvement. Implicit learning scores indicated a preservation of learning in both groups; however, PM‐carriers demonstrated poorer learning through significantly elevated response latencies overall and at each specific block within the symbolic SRTT. Group comparisons also revealed a core deficit in response inhibition, alongside elevated inattentive symptoms in female PM‐carriers. Finally, strong and significant associations were observed between poor symbolic SRTT performance and executive, visuospatial and affective deficits in the PM‐carrier group. These associations remained strong even after controlling motor speed, and were not observed in age‐ and intelligence quotient‐matched participants. The findings implicate cerebellar non‐motor networks subserving the implicit sequencing of responses in cognitive–affective phenotypes previously observed in female PM‐carriers. We contend that symbolic SRTT performance may offer clinical utility in future pharmaceutical interventions in female PM‐carriers.
Bestand, Wiederholung, Weiß: Rilkes Heilsgeschichte des Dings
Authors: Mohnkern Ansgar
Published: February 2014

Anhand von Rilkes Gedicht “Das Karussell” werden im Anschluss an Karl Opperts berühmten Aufsatz über das Dinggedicht (1926) Aspekte heilsgeschichtlichen Denkens im Hinblick auf Rilkes Dichtung beleuchtet. Wesentlich sind dabei Fragen nach Zukunft und Erlösung, aber auch nach lyrischer Form, Wiederholung, Bewegung und Verwendung von Farben, insbesondere der Farbe Weiß. In engem Dialog mit dem Gedicht wird durch die Lektüre ein Widerstreit zwischen der Möglichkeit der Erlösung selbst sowie deren Undarstellbarkeit in poetischer Sprache zu Tage gefördert, die die Heilsgeschichte eines Dings im Gedicht zu einer ausgesprochen prekären macht.
Crafting an Antidote to Fast Fashion: The Case of Toronto's Independent Fashion Design Sector
Authors: Leslie Deborah , Brail Shauna , Hunt Mia
Published: February 2014

The fashion industry has undergone a profound transformation in business practices and production systems over the past several decades. These shifts include the globalisation of production chains and the emergence of a new model of “fast fashion.” This paper investigates the response of independent fashion designers in Toronto, Canada to the growing competition posed by fast fashion. It identifies a number of strategies utilised by designers to compete, arguing that they are increasingly adopting a new model of “slow fashion,” which opens up possibilities for forging locally and ethically based relationships in the fashion sector.
n‐3 fatty acid deficiency in man
Authors: BJERVE K. S.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. A total of nine patients with n‐3 fatty acid deficiency are described. They had been fed by gastric tube for 2.5–12 years, and had received 0.02‐0.09% of calories as n‐3 acids. The observed clinical symptoms of n‐3 fatty acid deficiency were scaly and haemorrhagic dermatitis, haemorrhagic folliculitis of the scalp, growth retardation and impaired wound healing. All patients had extensive brain damage making it impossible to evaluate n‐3 effects on cerebral functions. The patients were supplemented with cod liver and soya oil, alpha‐linolenate followed by a purified fish oil, or with a mixture of linseed and cod liver oil. The results indicate that a dietary supply of 1.0–1.2% of alpha‐linolenic acid is necessary to obtain a mid‐normal lipid concentration of n‐3 fatty acids, and suggest that the minimal dietary requirement is 0.2‐0.3% of total calories. Long‐chain n‐3 fatty acids seem to be approximately twice as efficient as alpha‐linolenic acid in maintaining normal n‐3 fatty acid concentrations in plasma and red cell lipids.
Dietary n‐3 fatty acids and arthritis
Authors: CATHCART E. S. , GONNERMAN W. A. , LESLIE C. A. , HAYES K. C.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. We have evidence that dietary fish oil (FO) decreases severity of collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA), changes the fatty acid composition of macrophage (Mϕ) membrane phospholipids, decreases Mϕ synthesis of prostaglandins (PGs), changes chemotactic ability of Mϕs, and affects metabolism of acute phase proteins. Gender also has pronounced effects on susceptibility to CIA and Mϕ prostaglandin profiles. The mechanisms by which dietary n‐3 fatty acids may act to alleviate symptoms of CIA, as well as interactions of dietary n‐3 and n‐6 fatty acids and gender are discussed. We suggest that the ability of FO diets to influence favourably the course of chronic inflammatory diseases is mediated via alterations in n‐6 fatty acid metabolism and that intrinsic differences in n‐6 fatty acid metabolism may account not only for our reported gender differences in incidence and severity of CIA, but also the well‐documented sexual dimorphism in immune/inflammatory responses in general.
Membrane and protein recycling associated with gastric HCl secretion
Authors: FORTE J. G. , HANZEL D. K. , OKAMOTO C. , CHOW D. , URUSHIDANI T.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Stimulation of the gastric parietal cell requires massive membrane transformations as H+‐pumps from the domain of cytoplasmic tubulovesicles are recruited into the apical plasma membrane domain. The recycling of membrane pools, through fusion and fission processes that accompany stimulation and inhibition of HCl secretion, also involves highly selective events of protein incorporation and segregation. This manuscript describes several proteins that have been identified with the apical plasma membrane from maximally stimulated parietal cells, and broadly characterizes them either as permanent resident proteins of the apical membrane, or transient proteins that move into and out of the apical membrane as the cell progresses through the secretory cycle. A typical example of transient association with the apical membrane concerns the pump proteins, including the 94 kDa catalytic α‐subunit of the H+K+‐ATPase and its newly discovered β‐subunit glycoprotein, which move between tubulovesicles. Proteins that remain associated with the apical plasma membrane during rest and secretion include actin, and an 80‐kDa phosphoprotein, which has been variously called 80 K, ezrin, p81 and cytovillin, and whose phosphorylation is increased by the histamine/cAMP pathway of parietal cell stimulation. An example of a cytosolic protein that becomes associated with the apical plasma membrane after stimulation is a 120‐kDa protein, which appears to have protein kinase activity. Note that the identification, localization and characterization of the K+ and Cl− transport proteins, which participate in net HCl secretion, are of immediate importance.
Leakage of HCO3− and mucosal restitution
Authors: SILEN W.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. When the integrity of the gastric mucosa is destroyed, there is a large passive diffusion of interstitial HCO3− from the nutrient side to the luminal side of the tissue. In the absence of nutrient HCO3−, rapid repair of superficial mucosal injuries is slowed markedly down or does not take place at all. The effects of a high degree of luminal acidification, which prevents rapid repair, can be counteracted by high concentrations of nutrient HCO3−. The importance of nutrient HCO3− is emphasized by the finding that luminal acid may destroy both the fibrin network beneath which restitution occurs and the basal lamina along which viable cells must migrate to re‐establish epithelial continuity. At the present time, it is not known whether the preventive effects of HCO3− against ulceration in a variety of systems are dependent upon leakage of HCO3− toward the surface, or whether nutrient HCO3 actually enters cells in order to regulate intracellular pH.
Role of accumulated gastric content in the pathogenesis of cysteamine‐ and mepirizole‐induced duodenal ulcers in the rat
Authors: TANAKA H. , TAKEUCHI K. , OKABE S.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Subcutaneous administration of cysteamine and mepirizole (at ulcerogenic and non‐ or weakly ulcerogenic doses) to fasted rats induced villous damage to the duodenum within 4 h. Only the damage induced by ulcerogenic doses progressed to macroscopically visible ulcers 10–12 h later. A considerable increase in gastric content was observed for more than 6–8 h after administration of the ulcerogenic dose of agents, but normal contents were noted 12 h later. The intraduodenal pH remained low for up to 16–20 h when ulcerogenic doses were given, but returned to control levels within 8–12 h when non‐ulcerogenic doses were given. Histamine similarly caused villous damage to the duodenum, yet there was no progression to an ulcer. Accumulation of gastric contents and a lower intraduodenal pH with histamine persisted for only 2 h and 1 h, respectively. We conclude that prolonged accumulation of gastric contents for up to 8 h together with a decreased lower intraduodenal pH for 16–20 h are necessary for the developmental progression of villous damage to well‐defined ulcers in the presence of ulcerogens.
Microscopy of acid transport at the gastric surface in vivo
Authors: HOLM L. , FLEMSTRÖM G.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. In vivo microscopy of the gastric surface, and pH‐sensitive dyes, were used to study the movement of acid formed in the gastric crypts across the mucus layer adherent to the gastric surface and into the lumen. Rats were anaesthetized and the stomach gently exteriorized. When the pH‐sensitive dye Congo red was applied luminally to stain the gel, predominantly red spots (pH > 5) and occasional blue spots (pH < 3), located above the outlets of the crypts, were observed in spontaneously‐secreting mucosae. Maximal stimulation of acid secretion (pentagastrin, 40 μg kg−1 h−1) resulted in the appearance only of blue spots, but the pH in the mucus gel between the crypts remained more alkaline, as indicated by pink staining. The fluorescence dye acridine orange was injected intravenously to an estimated blood concentration of 10−5 M in another type of experiment. This dye is concentrated and secreted by the parietal cells. Pronounced fluorescence was observed within spots of the gastric surface corresponding to the outlets of the gastric crypts, but no fluorescence was detected outside these areas. The results obtained with both dyes strongly suggest that acid (and pepsin) is transported across the mucus gel only at restricted sites.
Vagal and sympathetic control of gastric and duodenal bicarbonate secretion
Authors: FÄNDRIKS L. , JÖNSON C.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. This report summarizes data concerning the extrinsic neural control of bicarbonate secretion by the gastric and duodenal mucosa. Parasympathetic vagal effects have been studied in experimental animals and in man by means of direct electrical vagal stimulation, sham‐feeding procedures and intracerebroventricular peptide injections. The results show that the vagal nerves have a stimulatory effect on gastroduodenal bicarbonate secretion. Furthermore, both conventional nicotinic and muscarinic cholinoceptor, as well as non‐cholinergic transmission, mediate the vagal effect. Sympathetic splanchnic nerve effects have been investigated by means of nerve sections, direct electrical stimulation, reflex activation and stereotaxic electrical hypothalamic stimulation. The data show that the splanchnic nerves have a predominantly inhibitory action on gastroduodenal bicarbonate secretion by use of peripheral adrenergic neurones and receptors of the alpha‐2 subtype. The role of the adrenal glands is not fully understood. It is concluded that gastroduodenal bicarbonate secretion is under autonomic neural control, mainly in the classical antagonistic fashion; the parasympathetic vagal nerves stimulate bicarbonate output, whereas the sympathetic splanchnic nerves are mainly inhibitory.
Role of VIP in local control of secretion
Authors: SMEDFORS B. , THEODORSSON E. , ALY A. , JOHANSSON C.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a potent stimulant of duodenal HCO3− secretion and may, like prostaglandins, have a stimulatory role in the local duodenal HCO3− response to luminal HCl. Using a proximal duodenal loop in conscious rats, we examined the local luminal release of HCO3−. VIP and prostaglandin (PG) E2 in response to increasing concentrations of HCl (0.01–150 mmol l−1), perfused for 5 min at 60‐min intervals. HCO3− and PGE2 were detected in all basal saline perfusate effluents, and were increased in a concentration‐dependent manner by all acid concentrations tested. VIP was increased in a concentration dependent manner from pH 3. Exogenous VIP did not affect the basal luminal output of PGE2, or vice versa. Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by indomethacin augmented the HCl‐stimulated luminal release of VIP, as well as the HCO3−response to exogenous VIP. The results are in agreement with previous studies, demonstrating that PGE2 is an important regulator of the duodenal HCO3− response to HCl in the rat. In addition, prostaglandins may negatively modulate the release of VIP from local VIPergic neurones, as well as the HCO3− secretagogue effect of VIP. Released VIP may contribute to the HCO3− response at pH ≤ 3.
Influence on intestinal secretion of eicosanoids
Authors: RASK‐MADSEN J. , BUKHAVE K. , BEUBLER E.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Eicosanoids have been shown to be important modulators of intestinal secretion. In cholera, cAMP is often regarded as the sole mediator, but recent data suggest that 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) and prostaglandin (PG) E2 also play important roles. Thus cholera toxin (CT) increases their release from the rat jejunum in vivo, and human cholera is associated with an increased luminal ‘overflow’ of PGE2. In vitro evidence of secretion can be obtained with PG concentrations 100‐ to 1000‐fold lower than those required for activation of the adenylate cyclase. Furthermore, 5‐HT induces secretion associated with increased ‘overflow’ of PGE2, but without a change in mucosal cAMP. CT‐induced release of PGE2 and fluid secretion can be decreased by indomethacin or by the 5‐HT2‐receptor antagonist, ketanserin, whereas the release of 5‐HT and cAMP is not affected by either substance. Secretion caused by vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) is associated with increased mucosal cAMP levels, without a change in PGE2 release, and is unaffected by indomethacin and ketanserin. These results suggest that CT stimulates the release of 5‐HT, which in turn causes the release of PGE2. The latter substances probably act via a local intramural reflex and contribute to secretion by mechanisms that are independent of cAMP.
A Mixed‐Method Approach to Evaluate a Pharmacist Intervention for Veterans With Hypertension
Authors: Parker Christopher P. , Cunningham Cassie L. , Carter Barry L. , Vander Weg Mark W. , Richardson Kelly K. , Rosenthal Gary E.
Published: February 2014

This paper examines blood pressure (BP) control after 6 months of an intensive pharmacist‐managed intervention in a mixed‐methods randomized controlled trial conducted at the Iowa City Veteran Affairs Health Care System and two community‐based outreach clinics. Patients received the pharmacist intervention for the first 6 months. The study coordinator conducted a summative evaluation with 37 patients 18 to 24 months following the initial 6‐month intervention period. BP was significantly reduced in diabetic patients following an intensive pharmacist intervention (−8.0/−4.0±14.4/9.1 mm Hg systolic/diastolic, P<.001 and P=.001, respectively). BP was reduced even more in nondiabetic patients (−14.0/−5.0±1.9/10.0 mm Hg, P<.001). Medication adherence significantly improved from baseline to 6 months (P=.017). BPs were significantly lower at 6 months following an intensive pharmacist intervention. Patients also expressed a high level of satisfaction with and preference for co‐management of their hypertension, as well as other chronic diseases.
Orthostatic Hypotension Associated With Baroreceptor Dysfunction: Treatment Approaches
Authors: Briasoulis Alexandros , Silver Adam , Yano Yuichiro , Bakris George L.
Published: February 2014

Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a relatively common heterogeneous and multifactorial disorder often caused by autonomic dysfunction. This condition has a deleterious impact on quality of life and contributes to higher mortality rates. Supine hypertension is very common in patients with autonomic failure, limits the use of pressor agents, and can result in end‐organ damage. Current recommendations on the optimal management of these patients are based on expert opinion and poor‐quality small cross‐sectional studies including patients with primary autonomic failure and severe orthostatic hypotension. The authors present their treatment approach in 12 patients with disabling orthostatic hypotension and supine hypertension not related to primary autonomic failure, presenting to a referral center over a 4‐year period. The first step is to educate the patient about the pathophysiology and course of their disorder. Nonpharmacologic therapies and maneuvers are usually effective in relieving symptoms and preventing syncope. If needed, pharmacologic options such as fludrocortisones and midodrine are also available in patients with severe symptoms. Supine hypertension represents a challenge in the treatment of this condition. Therefore, elevation of the bed of the head and dosing of short‐acting antihypertensive agents at bedtime is often indicated.
Adolescent deviant peer clustering as an amplifying mechanism underlying the progression from early substance use to late adolescent dependence
Authors: Van Ryzin Mark J. , Dishion Thomas J.
Published: February 2014

Background

Early substance use co‐occurs with youths' self‐organization into deviant peer groups in which substance use is central to social interaction. We hypothesized that the social dynamics of deviant peer groups amplify the risk of progressing from early use to later dependence, and that this influence occurs over and above escalations in use that typically accompany early substance use and membership in deviant groups.

Methods

Our study used a longitudinal, multimethod dataset consisting of 998 adolescents and their families. Participants were recruited from middle schools in a large metropolitan area in the Pacific Northwest. The sample was 47.3% female and ethnically diverse (42.3% European American, 29.1% African American, and 28.6% other, including biracial). We examined deviant peer clustering as a mediator between early substance use and later dependence, controlling for proximal levels of use, SES, early antisocial behavior, and parental monitoring. Tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana use were assessed at ages 12, 13, and 16–17. Past‐year nicotine, alcohol, and marijuana dependence (DSM‐IV) was assessed at age 19. Youth and parent reports and observational data were used to assess deviant peer clustering at age 16–17, and youth reported on antisocial behavior and parental monitoring at ages 12 and 13.

Results

Early substance use predicted increased likelihood of dependence on tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana by late adolescence. Deviant peer affiliation mediated these links, even when accounting for proximal levels of substance use.

Conclusions

Early substance use not only promotes escalations in use across adolescence but also provides entry into a deviant social context that contributes to increased risk of dependence. Our results emphasize the importance of identifying and intervening in early substance use before it becomes an organizing factor in friendship selection and interaction. Deviant peer clusters are clearly an important avenue for intervention when seeking to interrupt the progression to substance dependence.
Quantitative genetic analysis of chlorophyll a fluorescence parameters in maize in the field environments
Authors: Šimić Domagoj , Lepeduš Hrvoje , Jurković Vlatka , Antunović Jasenka , Cesar Vera
Published: February 2014

Chlorophyll fluorescence transient from initial to maximum fluorescence (“P” step) throughout two intermediate steps (“J” and “I”) (JIP‐test) is considered a reliable early quantitative indicator of stress in plants. The JIP‐test is particularly useful for crop plants when applied in variable field environments. The aim of the present study was to conduct a quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis for nine JIP‐test parameters in maize during flowering in four field environments differing in weather conditions. QTL analysis and identification of putative candidate genes might help to explain the genetic relationship between photosynthesis and different field scenarios in maize plants. The JIP‐test parameters were analyzed in the intermated B73 × Mo17 (IBM) maize population of 205 recombinant inbred lines. A set of 2,178 molecular markers across the whole maize genome was used for QTL analysis revealing 10 significant QTLs for seven JIP‐test parameters, of which five were co‐localized when combined over the four environments indicating polygenic inheritance and pleiotropy. Our results demonstrate that QTL analysis of chlorophyll fluorescence parameters was capable of detecting one pleiotropic locus on chromosome 7, coinciding with the gene gst23 that may be associated with efficient photosynthesis under different field scenarios.
Conversion of atrial fibrillation after levothyroxine in a dog with hypothyroidism and arterial thromboembolism
Authors: Chow B. , French A.
Published: February 2014

A six‐year‐old female spayed mixed‐breed dog was referred following a 3‐week history of lameness and progressive neurological deficits in both hindlimbs, and a 1‐week history of a cardiac arrhythmia. The dog was diagnosed with hypothyroidism, atrial fibrillation, myocardial dysfunction and arterial thromboembolism. Cardioversion occurred after 2 weeks of levothyroxine supplementation, with improved systolic function over time. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case reported in the veterinary or human literature documenting hypothyroidism with persistent atrial fibrillation being converted to sinus rhythm with levothyroxine as sole therapy.
Aiming to be a breastfeeding mother in a neonatal intensive care unit and at home: a thematic analysis of peer‐support group discussion in social media
Authors: Niela‐Vilén Hannakaisa , Axelin Anna , Melender Hanna‐Leena , Salanterä Sanna
Published: February 2014

Preterm infants are usually breastfed less than full‐term infants, and successful breastfeeding requires a supportive environment and special efforts from their mothers. A breastfeeding peer‐support group, utilising social media, was developed for these mothers in order to support them in this challenge. Mothers were able to discuss breastfeeding and share experiences. The purpose of this study was to describe the perceptions of breastfeeding mothers of preterm infants based on the postings in peer‐support group discussions in social media. The actively participating mothers (n = 22) had given birth <35 gestational weeks. They were recruited from one university hospital in Finland. The social media postings (n = 305) were analysed using thematic analysis. A description of the process of breastfeeding a preterm infant from the point of view of a mother was created. The process consisted of three main themes: the breastfeeding paradox in hospital, the ‘reality check’ of breastfeeding at home and the breastfeeding experience as part of being a mother. The mothers encountered paradoxical elements in the support received in hospital; discharge was promoted at the expense of breastfeeding and pumping breast milk was emphasised over breastfeeding. After the infant's discharge, the over‐optimistic expectations of mothers often met with reality – mothers did not have the knowledge or skills to manage breastfeeding at home. Successful breastfeeding was an empowering experience for the mothers, whereas unsuccessful breastfeeding induced feelings of disappointment. Therefore, the mothers of preterm infants need evidence‐based breastfeeding counselling and systematic support in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and at home.
Benefits of repeated individual dietary counselling in long‐term weight control in women after delivery
Authors: Jaakkola Johanna , Isolauri Erika , Poussa Tuija , Laitinen Kirsi
Published: February 2014

As pregnancy may trigger overweight in women, new means for its prevention are being sought. The aim here was to investigate the effect of individual dietary counselling during and after pregnancy on post‐partum weight and waist circumference up to 4 years post‐partum. A cohort of women (n = 256) were randomized to receive repeated individual dietary counselling by a nutritionist during and after pregnancy, or as controls not receiving dietary counselling, from the first trimester of pregnancy until 6 months after delivery. Counselling aimed to bring dietary intake into line with recommendations, with particular focus on the increase in the intake of unsaturated fatty acids instead of saturated. Pre‐pregnancy weight was taken from welfare clinic records. Weight and waist circumference were measured at 4 years after delivery. The proportion of overweight women increased from 26% prior to pregnancy to 30% at 4 years after delivery among women receiving dietary counselling, as against considerably more, from 32% to 57%, among controls. The prevalence of central adiposity was 31% in women receiving dietary counselling, 64% in controls. Likewise, both the risk of overweight (odds ratio: 0.23, 0.08–0.63, P = 0.005) and central adiposity (odds ratio: 0.18, 0.06–0.52, P = 0.002) were lower in women receiving dietary counselling compared with controls. Repeated dietary counselling initiated in early pregnancy can be beneficial in long‐term weight control after delivery.
Overexpression of BnWRKY33 in oilseed rape enhances resistance to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
Authors: Wang Zheng , Fang Hedi , Chen Yu , Chen Keping , Li Guanying , Gu Shoulai , Tan Xiaoli
Published: February 2014

Sclerotinia sclerotiorum causes a devastating disease in oilseed rape (Brassica napus) resulting in a tremendous yield loss worldwide. Studies on various host–pathogen interactions have shown that plant WRKY transcription factors are essential for defence. For the B. napus–S. sclerotiorum interaction, little direct evidence has been found with regard to the biological roles of specific WRKY genes in host resistance. In this study, we isolated a B. napus WRKY gene, BnWRKY33, and found that the gene is highly responsive to S. sclerotiorum infection. Transgenic B. napus plants overexpressing BnWRKY33 showed markedly enhanced resistance to S. sclerotiorum, constitutive activation of the expression of BnPR1 and BnPDF1.2, and inhibition of H2O2 accumulation in response to pathogen infection. Further, we isolated a mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase substrate gene, BnMKS1, and found that not only can BnWRKY33 interact with BnMKS1, which can also interact with BnMPK4, using the yeast two‐hybrid assay, consistent with their collective nuclear localization, but also BnWRKY33, BnMKS1 and BnMPK4 are substantially and synergistically expressed in response to S. sclerotiorum infection. In contrast, the three genes showed differential expression in response to phytohormone treatments. Together, these results suggest that BnWRKY33 plays an important role in B. napus defence to S. sclerotiorum, which is most probably associated with the activation of the salicylic acid (SA)‐ and jasmonic acid (JA)‐mediated defence response and inhibition of H2O2 accumulation, and we propose a potential mechanism in which BnMPK4–BnMKS1–BnWRKY33 exist in a nuclear localized complex to regulate resistance to S. sclerotiorum in oilseed rape.
Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor arising in pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma: A case report
Authors: Jeong Ji Yun , Suh Yeon‐Lim , Hong SoonWon
Published: February 2014

Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is a rare, highly malignant, true rhabdoid tumor in the central nervous system predominantly presenting in young children. AT/RT typically shows rhabdoid cells which can also be seen in other tumors, but it is differentiated from other tumors by the specific genetic alteration involving the SMARCB1 gene. Only a few cases of AT/RT arising in low‐grade glioma have been reported. A 13‐year‐old girl presented with headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting. A 4.7 cm cerebellar mass was found on MRI. The mass was totally removed. Histologically, the tumor revealed two distinct morphologic appearances: central areas of AT/RT containing rhabdoid cells and sarcomatous component in the background of pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA). Immunohistochemically, PXA areas retained nuclear expression of INI‐1 and low Ki‐67 proliferation index, whereas AT/RT component showed loss of INI‐1 nuclear expression and markedly elevated Ki‐67 proliferation index. Epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), smooth muscle actin (SMA), and p53 protein were positive only in AT/RT. BRAF V600E mutation was identified in PXA by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. We report a rare case of AT/RT arising in PXA which is supposed to progress by inactivation of INI‐1 in a pre‐existing PXA.
Identification of quantitative trait loci with main and epistatic effects for plant architecture traits in Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Li Cheng‐Qi , Song Li , Zhao Hai‐Hong , Wang Qing‐Lian , Fu Yuan‐Zhi
Published: February 2014

Plant architecture is important for cotton cultivation and breeding. In this study, two mapping generations/populations F2 and F2:3 in Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), derived from ‘Baimian1’ and TM‐1, were used to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for 10 plant architecture traits. A total of 55 main‐effect QTLs (M‐QTLs) were detected. Four common M‐QTLs, qTFB‐10(F2/F2:3) for total fruit branches, qFBL‐26b(F2)/qFBL‐26(F2:3) for fruit branch length, qFBA‐5(F2/F2:3) for fruit branch angle and qFBN‐26b(F2)/qFBN‐26(F2:3) for fruit branch nodes, were found. The synergistic alleles and the negative alleles can be utilized in cotton plant architecture breeding programmes according to specific breeding objectives. Altogether 54 pairs of epistatic QTLs (E‐QTLs) exhibiting the interactions of additive‐by‐additive (AA), additive‐by‐dominant (AD), dominant‐by‐additive (DA) and dominant‐by‐dominant (DD) were detected. The epistasis appeared to be an important contributor to genetic variation in cotton plant architecture traits. Therefore, the identified markers associated with E‐QTLs as well as M‐QTLs will be of importance in future breeding programmes to develop cotton cultivars exhibiting desirable plant architecture.
Do patients of delirium have catatonic features? An exploratory study
Authors: Grover Sandeep , Ghosh Abhishek , Ghormode Deepak
Published: February 2014

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of catatonic symptoms, as per the Bush Francis Catatonia Rating Scale (BFCRS), in patients with delirium and to evaluate the prevalence of catatonia as defined by the Bush Francis Catatonia Screening Instrument and DSM‐5 criteria in patients with delirium.

Method

Two hundred five consecutive subjects with delirium were assessed on the Delirium Rating Scale‐Revised 98 version, the amended Delirium Motor Symptom Scale and the BFCRS.

Results

On the BFCRS, two‐fifths (n = 80; 39%) of the study participants had two or more catatonic symptoms. When the diagnosis of catatonic syndrome was considered, 32% and 12.7% were observed to have catatonia as per the Bush Francis Catatonia Screening Instrument and proposed DSM‐5 criteria, respectively. Delirium with catatonic syndrome was more common in women and in those who had onset of delirium prior to hospitalization. Amongst the delirium subtypes, hypoactive delirium was more commonly associated with catatonic syndrome.

Conclusion

The present study suggests that a substantial number of patients with delirium have catatonic symptoms and a significant proportion have catatonic syndrome. This high prevalence makes the concurrent diagnosis of delirium and catatonia plausible. The association of catatonia with a specific motor subtype of delirium could encourage the expansion or even modification of the existing subtypes of delirium.
Interaction Effects in the Design of Computer Simulation Experiments for Architecting Systems‐of‐Systems
Authors: Kujawski Edouard
Published: February 2014

This paper demonstrates the applicability and benefits of optimal design of experiments (ODOE) for architecting systems‐of‐systems (SoSs). All experiments depend on appropriate models for their design and analysis. In keeping with the sparsity‐of‐effects principle, a general linear model with main‐effects‐plus‐two‐factor‐interactions (MEPTFI) is assumed to realistically characterize the relationship between the SoS elements and the response of interest. The designed experiment requires additional simulations to account for the two‐factor interaction effects, and the main effects cannot be interpreted as defining the optimal solution. The optimal performance architecture is determined by optimizing the fitted MEPTFI model. The proposed method is applied to the problem of architecting a SoS to protect against small boat attacks. A statistical analysis confirms that the MEPTFI model has excellent predictive capability. It also proves the fallacy of the applicability of the standard Taguchi method for architecting SoSs by demonstrating that it gives misleading results because of the omission of active interactions. The ODOE method can be implemented using commercially available general‐purpose statistics software. Given its mathematical formulation, it can be generalized to solve systems engineering and architecting problems that require complex models beyond the MEPTFI model.
A survey of O RhD‐negative red cells in the South West: stocks and distribution compared to use and wastage
Authors: Page J. , Jones A. , MacRate E. , Webb M. , Birchall J. ,   on behalf of the South West Regional Transfusion Committee
Published: February 2014

Background

O RhD‐negative (ONeg) red cells can be used in an emergency for recipients of other blood groups. Matching supply and demand is currently a challenge; therefore, any service redesign, using more remote blood fridges, must consider ONeg red cell availability.

Objectives

To identify whether the number of fridges stocking emergency ONeg units correlates with use and wastage.

Methods

The number and distribution of ONeg red cells was requested from the hospitals in South West England. For NHS Hospitals, comparison was made with ONeg National Health Service (NHS) organisation – NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) issues (ONeg as a proportion of all red cells), wastage and the proportion of ONeg units given to ONeg patients (ONeg‐to‐ONeg use). Correlations were performed using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient.

Results

Of the 23 hospitals, 21 responded. Four hundred and forty three ONeg units were held across the region – 56% as stock and the remaining as emergency units. ONeg issues increased with the number of fridges holding emergency units (ρ = 0·48, significance 0·046). No correlation was found between the number of fridges and ONeg wastage or ONeg‐to‐ONeg use. A longer unit shelf life on rotation back to stock was associated with lower wastage (ρ = −0·597, significance 0·009).

Conclusions

Although there was a weak correlation between fridge numbers and overall percentage ONeg use, there was no correlation with ONeg wastage.
US–Brazil Cotton Dispute and the World Cotton Market
Authors: Ridley William , Devadoss Stephen
Published: February 2014

US policies for its cotton producers depress world cotton prices, adversely affecting exporters such as Brazil, which filed a complaint to the WTO. Despite WTO rulings in Brazil's favour, meting out the right to enact retaliatory countermeasures, the United States continues to subsidise its cotton farmers. After prolonged negotiations, Brazil and the United States reached an agreement which allowed the United States to pay Brazil to refrain from enforcing the countermeasures. To capture the adverse effects of US policies, theoretical analyses are conducted. The theoretical model is extended by constructing an empirical model of the world cotton market. The adverse effects of US policies on Brazil are estimated and compared to the compensation the United States pays Brazil.
Origin of Foreign Direct Investment and Firm Performance: Evidence from Foreign Acquisitions of Chinese Domestic Firms
Authors: Kamal Fariha
Published: February 2014

Using a newly created panel of domestic Chinese firms who receive foreign direct investment (FDI), this paper finds that Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)‐acquired firms outperform those acquired by investors from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan (HMT). To control for possible endogeneity of the FDI decision, I employ propensity score matching combined with a difference‐in‐differences approach. The results indicate that relative to HMT‐acquired firms, OECD‐acquired firms experience significantly higher productivity in the initial year of acquisition and this productivity differential persists in subsequent years, reaching 27.8 per cent by the third year. Further, OECD‐acquired firms exhibit higher profits, average wages and capital per worker compared to HMT‐acquired firms. These results suggest that the origin of the foreign investor differentially affects target firm performance.
Current Accounts in the Long Run and the Intertemporal Approach: A Panel Data Investigation
Authors: Cerrato Mario , Kalyoncu Huseyin , Naqvi Naveed Hassan , Tsoukis Christopher
Published: February 2014

This paper is a theory‐based study of the long‐run determinants of the current account (CA). For many OECD economies after the Second World War, there has been more long‐run variation in the CA data than is emphasised by a ‘Permanent Income’ version of the intertemporal approach that is based on consumption‐smoothing and that allows only transitory CA imbalances. A theoretical model of the CA is developed, based on the ‘broader’ variant of the intertemporal approach that stresses the long‐term component of the CA. We find that some key theoretical predictions hold, while others fail, validating the approach but also pointing to its limitations.
Gain-Scheduled Two-Loop Autopilot for an Aircraft
Authors: Ravanbod Laleh , Noll Dominikus
Published: February 2014

We present a new method to compute output gain-scheduled controllers for nonlinear systems. We use structured H∞-control to precompute an optimal controller parametrization as a reference. We then propose three practical methods to implement a control law which has only an acceptable loss of performance with regard to the optimal reference law. Our method is demonstrated in longitudinal flight control, where the dynamics of the aircraft depend on the operational conditions velocity and altitude. We design a structured controller consisting of a PI-block to control vertical acceleration, and another I-block to control the pitch rate.