bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti‐GQ1b antibody syndrome: anti‐ganglioside complex reactivity determines clinical spectrum
Authors: Fukami Y. , Wong A. H. Y. , Funakoshi K. , Safri A.Y. , Shahrizaila N. , Yuki N.
Published: July 2015

Background and purpose

Anti‐GQ1b antibodies have been found in patients with Miller Fisher syndrome as well as its related conditions. Our aim was to identify the mechanism by which autoantibodies produce various clinical presentations in ‘anti‐GQ1b antibody syndrome’.

Methods

Immunoglobulin G antibodies to ganglioside complex (GSC) of GQ1b or GT1a with GM1, GD1a, GD1b or GT1b were tested in sera from patients with anti‐GQ1b (n = 708) or anti‐GT1a (n = 696) IgG antibodies. Optical densities of the single anti‐GQ1b or anti‐GT1a antibodies were used as reference (100%), and those of anti‐GSC antibodies were expressed in percentages to reference. The relationships between anti‐GSC antibody reactivity and the corresponding clinical features were assessed by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

Ophthalmoplegia and hypersomnolence were significantly associated with complex‐attenuated anti‐GQ1b and anti‐GT1a antibodies. Ataxia was associated with GD1b‐ and GT1b‐enhanced anti‐GQ1b antibodies or GM1‐enhanced anti‐GT1a antibodies. Bulbar palsy was associated with GT1b‐enhanced anti‐GQ1b antibodies. Neck weakness was associated with GD1a‐enhanced anti‐GQ1b antibodies. Arm weakness was associated with GD1b‐enhanced anti‐GQ1b and GD1a‐enhanced anti‐GT1a antibodies. Leg weakness was associated with GD1a‐enhanced anti‐GQ1b and anti‐GT1a antibodies.

Conclusions

Differences in fine specificity of anti‐GQ1b antibodies are associated with clinical features, possibly due to the different expression of gangliosides in different parts of the nervous system.
Novel FUS mutations identified through molecular screening in a large cohort of familial and sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Tarlarini C. , Lunetta C. , Mosca L. , Avemaria F. , Riva N. , Mantero V. , Maestri E. , Quattrini A. , Corbo M. , Melazzini M. G. , Penco S.
Published: July 2015

Background and purpose

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease. Approximately 5%–10% of cases are familial (FALS) and the remaining are sporadic (SALS). To date FUS mutations are responsible for 4%–6% of familial cases as well as 0.7%–1.8% of sporadic cases.

Methods

The frequency of FUS mutations was investigated in an Italian cohort of 500 SALS and 40 FALS patients through direct sequencing of exons 5, 6, 13, 14 and 15.

Results

Eight FUS mutation carriers were identified in five SALS (1%) and three FALS (7.5%), five already known and three new mutations: a de novo mutation was identified in a sporadic subject as well as the co‐presence of FUS/C9ORF72 mutations in a FALS subject. The molecular and clinical details of the three patients harbouring a novel mutation (G245V, G509D and R491C) are presented here. Moreover the co‐presence of the R491C mutation and C9ORF72 pathological expansion was found according to the oligogenic disease model.

Conclusions

In conclusion our results revealed a higher frequency of FUS mutation carriers (7.5%) in FALS compared to literature data together with a higher presence of female gender.
A community study outlines how to prevent Parkinson's disease motor complications in the clinic
Authors: Logroscino G.
Published: July 2015

Click here to view the accompanying paper in this issue.
Increased pCREBexpression and the spontaneous epileptiform activity in aBCNU‐treated rat model of cortical dysplasia
Authors: Pennacchio Paolo , Noé Francesco , Gnatkovsky Vadym , Moroni Ramona Frida , Zucca Ileana , Regondi Maria Cristina , Inverardi Francesca , de Curtis Marco , Frassoni Carolina
Published: July 2015

Objective

Cortical dysplasias (CDs) represent a wide range of cortical abnormalities that closely correlate with intractable epilepsy. Rats prenatally exposed to 1‐3‐bis‐chloroethyl‐nitrosurea (BCNU) represent an injury‐based model that reproduces many histopathologic features of humanCD. Previous studies reported in vivo hyperexcitability in this model, but in vivo epileptogenicity has not been confirmed.

Methods

To determine whether cortical and hippocampal lesions lead to epileptiform discharges and/or seizures in theBCNUmodel, rats at three different ages (3, 5, and 9 months old) were implanted for long‐term video electroencephalographic recording. At the end of the recording session, brain tissue was processed for histologic and immunohistochemical investigation including cAMPresponse element binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation, as a biomarker of epileptogenicity.

Results

BCNU‐treated rats showed spontaneous epileptiform activity (67%) in the absence of a second seizure‐provoking hit. Such activity originated mainly from one hippocampus and propagated to the ipsilateral neocortex. No epileptiform activity was found in age‐matched control rats. The histopathologic investigation revealed that allBCNUrats with epileptiform activity showed neocortical and hippocampal abnormalities; the presence and the severity of these lesions did not correlate consistently with the propensity to generate epileptiform discharges. Epileptiform activity was found only in cortical areas ofBCNU‐treated rats in which a correlation between brain abnormalities and increasedpCREBexpression was observed.

Significance

This study demonstrates the in vivo occurrence of spontaneous epileptiform discharges in theBCNUmodel and shows that increased pCREBexpression can be utilized as a reliable biomarker of epileptogenicity.
Rapid eye movement sleep reveals epileptogenic spikes for resective surgery in children with generalized interictal discharges
Authors: Okanari Kazuo , Baba Shiro , Otsubo Hiroshi , Widjaja Elysa , Sakuma Satoru , Go Cristina Y. , Jones Kevin C. , Nishioka Kazuki , Oba Shimpei , Matsui Tasuku , Ueno Makoto , Ukitsu Shogo , Rutka James T. , Drake James M. , Donner Elizabeth J. , Weiss Shelly K. , Snead O. Carter , Ochi Ayako
Published: July 2015

Objective

Epilepsy surgery can be successful in children with extensive congenital or early acquired focal or hemispheric brain lesion on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) despite generalized interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs). The aim of this study was to assess if rapid eye movement (REM) sleep reduced generalized IEDs and revealed lateralized IEDs to identify the epileptogenic hemisphere in children with generalized IEDs and normal/subtle changes on MRI.

Methods

We studied 20 children with generalized IEDs on scalp electroencephalography (EEG) and normal/subtle changes on MRI who underwent intracranial video‐EEG for epilepsy surgery. We assessed a minimum of 100 IEDs during REM, non‐REM, and wakefulness, and assigned the distribution (generalized, left, or right hemisphere) to each IED. The number of lobes in the resected areas and seizure outcome were compared between 20 children with generalized IEDs and a comparison group of 28 children without generalized IEDs.

Results

The mean occurrence rate of generalized IEDs during REM (37%) was significantly lower than that during non‐REM (67%, p < 0.001) and wakefulness (54%, p = 0.003). The number of children whose largest number of IEDs was lateralized in REM was significantly higher than that in non‐REM (15 vs. 3 children, 75% vs. 15%, p < 0.001). The hemisphere with lateralized IEDs among three states corresponded with the surgical side in 16 children with generalized IEDs. Seventeen children (85%) with generalized IEDs and 27 (96%) without generalized IEDs underwent resective surgery. Multilobar resection was required for 16 children (94%) with generalized IEDs more frequently than 7 children (26%) without generalized IEDs (p < 0.001). Thirteen children (77%) with generalized IEDs and 19 (73%) without generalized IEDs were seizure‐free with a mean of 3.3 years of follow‐up.

Significance

Our study demonstrates the importance of assessing REM in children with generalized IEDs as it reveals lateralized epileptogenic spikes. Seizure freedom may be achieved with multilobar resection in these children with generalized IEDs and normal/subtle changes on MRI. Generalized IEDs in children with normal/subtle changes on MRI should not preclude surgical resection.
Quantitative assessment of gait parameters in horses: Useful for aiding clinical decision making?
Authors: Pfau T. , Fiske‐Jackson A. , Rhodin M.
Published: July 2015

Gait analysis in horses has moved from the laboratory into the outside world enabling researchers and clinicians to make use of quantitative measurements to provide evidence aiding clinical decision making. In this article we explain how the two major visual signs of lameness – head nod and hip hike –are linked to the mechanics of lameness. These parameters should be regarded as well suited for incorporation into clinical decision making being easily measurable e.g. with inertial sensors under nonlaboratory conditions and representative of the underlying mechanical changes. A brief overview of the results of validation studies of the use of inertial sensors for quantification of movement symmetry shows that accuracy, precision and repeatability with current sensor generations are in the order of 3–7 mm; this is below the reported detection threshold for movement symmetries ‘by eye’. Recent studies with inertial sensors have investigated conditions relevant to the clinical lameness examination: lungeing, flexion tests and diagnostic analgesia. Lungeing introduces kinematic adaptations rendering head and pelvic movement asymmetrical, even in sound horses. First guideline values are available for changes after flexion tests and diagnostic analgesia, and we understand which parameters show consistent changes. This is crucial for investigating the effects in horses with different orthopaedic deficits. In conclusion, the current inertial sensor systems, while not quantifying all the gait adaptations seen in lame horses, characterise the major mechanical changes affecting fore‐ and hindlimb lame horses. In order to avoid misinterpretation of the generated data, users should have a thorough understanding of the gait parameters and be aware of sensor limitations in terms of accuracy, precision and repeatability.
Compressive myelopathy caused by epidural haematoma associated with fibrocartilaginous embolism in a horse
Authors: Dörner C. , Uzal F. , Carvallo F. , Palmero J.
Published: July 2015

Compressive myelopathy caused by an epidural haematoma associated with fibrocartilage embolism was diagnosed in a 2.5‐year‐old Hanoverian gelding. The patient showed severe ataxia with no improvement following medical therapy and a poor prognosis after myelography. An epidural mass located dorsal to the intervertebral disc between C4 and C5 was compressing the spinal cord dorsally to approximately one‐third of its normal height. The epidural tissue was characterised histologically as an organised thrombus, and its major com‐ponents were fibrin and macrophages with intracytoplasmic brown, iron‐rich granules. Positive Alcian blue stain confirmed the presence of cartilage within the thrombus.
Nd:YAGlaser‐assisted transendoscopic procedure for treatment of otitis media in a horse
Authors: Uhlendorf F. , Hellige M. , Cavalleri J. V. M. , Feige K. , Ohnesorge B.
Published: July 2015

An 8‐year‐old Warmblood gelding was referred for evaluation of headshaking to the Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover. Based on clinical signs and computed tomography – as well as magnetic resonance imaging – findings, otitis media was diagnosed. Medical treatment including trimethoprim potentiated sulfadimethoxine and meloxicam for 3 weeks did not result in cessation of clinical signs. Therefore, the tympanic cavity was opened transendoscopically using an Nd:YAG‐laser via the guttural pouch according to surgical procedures in human and small animal medicine, leading to a considerable improvement of clinical signs.
Potential dangerous interactions between alternative remedies and surgery
Authors: Baum Michael
Published: July 2015

Interactions between conventional medicine and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) remedies are well recognised but surgeons rarely consider this potential hazard prior to an operation. This report alerts surgeons to the possibility of CAM interacting with clotting mechanisms but also acknowledges that some complementary treatments might support patients during the peri‐operative period.
Candidate perennial bioenergy grasses have a higher albedo than annual row crops
Authors: Miller Jesse N. , VanLoocke Andy , Gomez‐Casanovas Nuria , Bernacchi Carl J.
Published: July 2015

The production of perennial cellulosic feedstocks for bioenergy presents the potential to diversify regional economies and the national energy supply, while also serving as climate ‘regulators’ due to a number of biogeochemical and biogeophysical differences relative to row crops. Numerous observational and model‐based approaches have investigated biogeochemical trade‐offs, such as increased carbon sequestration and increased water use, associated with growing cellulosic feedstocks. A less understood aspect is the biogeophysical changes associated with the difference in albedo (α), which could alter the local energy balance and cause local to regional cooling several times larger than that associated with offsetting carbon. Here, we established paired fields ofMiscanthus × giganteus(miscanthus) andPanicum virgatum(switchgrass), two of the leading perennial cellulosic feedstock candidates, and traditional annual row crops in the highly productive ‘Corn‐belt’. Our results show that miscanthus did and switchgrass did not have an overall higherαthan current row crops, but a strong seasonal pattern existed. Both perennials had consistently higher growing seasonαthan row crops and winterαdid not differ. The lack of observed differences in winterα, however, masked an interaction between snow cover and species differences, with the perennial species, compared with the row crops, having a higherαwhen snow was absent and a much lowerαwhen snow was present. Overall, these changes resulted in an average net reduction in annual absorbed energy of about 5 W m−2for switchgrass and about 8 W m−2for miscanthus relative to annual crops. Therefore, the conversion from annual row to perennial crops alters the radiative balance of the surface via changes inαand could lead to regional cooling.
A mammoth mouthful? A test of the idea that larger animals ingest larger seeds
Authors: Chen Si‐Chong , Moles Angela T.
Published: July 2015

Aim

It has been widely assumed that large seeds generally require large animals to ingest and disperse them. However, this relationship has only been quantified in single animal groups (e.g. birds) and in a few communities. Our goal was to provide the first broad‐scale study of the relationship between animal body mass and ingested seed size.

Location

Global.

Methods

We compiled a dataset of 13,135 unique animal × seed interactions, animal body masses and seed sizes in these interactions, across all vertebrate groups (fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals).

Results

Contrary to expectations, ingested seed size was negatively related to animal body mass. This negative relationship was largely driven by large ungulates ingesting small and dry seeds, and analyses excluding either ungulates or seeds with non‐fleshy fruit types showed a positive relationship between animal body mass and ingested seed size. Large animals ingested both seeds with a larger maximum size (the 95th quantile had a positive slope) and a smaller minimum size (the 5th quantile had a negative slope). Larger animals ingest larger seeds from fleshy fruits but smaller seeds from non‐fleshy fruits. A significant positive relationship was found between animal size and the number of seed species ingested.

Main conclusions

Our data show that one of the assumptions that has underpinned the study of animal–seed interactions does not hold true across the full range of animal taxa and fruit types. These findings shed new light on theories about which types of plant species might be at risk if large animals go extinct, and cast doubt on the generality of a few theories (e.g. optimal diet theory, fruit‐size hypothesis) about the relationship between frugivores and seeds.
Type of surgery is associated with pain and walking difficulties among older people with previous hip fracture
Authors: Salpakoski Anu , Kallinen Mauri , Kiviranta Ilkka , Alen Markku , Portegijs Erja , Jämsen Esa , Ylinen Jari , Rantanen Taina , Sipilä Sarianna
Published: July 2015

Aim

The aim was to assess the level of lower body pain among people with previous femoral neck fracture, and whether the type of surgery was associated with pain and physical function a mean of 2 years after surgery.

Methods

The study included 115 community‐dwelling older adults aged 60 years and older with previous femoral neck fracture, and 31 reference subjects without previous lower limb injuries. A total of 30 patients had internal fixation surgery, 70 had hemiarthroplasty and 15 had total hip replacement. All patients had surgery in the same hospital and received typical inpatient rehabilitation. From 1.6 months to 7.5 years after the fracture, the patients underwent examination including clinical evaluation, measurements of pain in the lower body (visual analog scale), physical function (maximal walking speed,TimedUp &Go,BergBalanceScale) and self‐reported walking difficulties.

Results

Hip fracture patients reported more pain (81 ± 88 mm) compared with the reference group (25 ± 39 mm,P = 0.004). Patients with internal fixation reported significantly more pain than the other study groups. Significantly more patients with internal fixation (53%) reported walking difficulties compared with patients who had hemiarthroplasty (29%,P = 0.028) or total hip replacement (13%,P = 0.018). No significant difference was observed in performance‐based physical function between the fracture groups, but participants in the reference group had better physical function than any of the fracture groups.

Conclusions

Hip fracture patients treated with internal fixation experienced more pain and walking difficulties than the hemiarthroplasty and total hip replacement groups. Different types of surgical fixation might require different rehabilitation and pain management strategies after hip fracture.Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; ●●: ●●–●●.
An Experimenting Field Approach for the Numerical Solution of Multiphase Flow in Porous Media
Authors: Salama Amgad , Sun Shuyu , Bao Kai
Published: July 2015

In this work, we apply the experimenting pressure field technique to the problem of the flow of two or more immiscible phases in porous media. In this technique, a set of predefined pressure fields are introduced to the governing partial differential equations. This implies that the velocity vector field and the divergence at each cell of the solution mesh can be determined. However, since none of these fields is the true pressure field entailed by the boundary conditions and/or the source terms, the divergence at each cell will not be the correct one. Rather the residue which is the difference between the true divergence and the calculated one is obtained. These fields are designed such that these residuals are used to construct the matrix of coefficients of the pressure equation and the right‐hand side. The experimenting pressure fields are generated in the solver routine and are fed to the different routines, which may be called physics routines, which return to the solver the elements of the matrix of coefficients. Therefore, this methodology separates the solver routines from the physics routines and therefore results in simpler, easy to construct, maintain, and update algorithms.
Central venous access device (CVAD) complications in Haemophilia with inhibitors undergoing immune tolerance induction: Lessons from the international immune tolerance study
Authors: Rodriguez V. , Mancuso M. E. , Warad D. , Hay C. R. M. , DiMichele D. M. , Valentino L. , Kenet G. , Kulkarni R.
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Central venous access devices (CVADs) are frequently required as stable long‐lasting venous access in children with haemophilia, especially those requiring immune tolerance induction (ITI) for inhibitors. CVAD infection is one of the most frequently reported catheter‐related complications in this patient population.

Aim

Detailed review of CVAD complications from the International ITI (I‐ITI) study and analysis of potential risk factors for such complications.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of prospectively obtained data from the I‐ITI study primarily focused on CVAD‐related complications.

Results

A total of 115 children were recruited and 183 CVADs were placed in 99 subjects resulting in 121,206 CVAD‐days observed on‐study. A total of 124 CVAD infections were reported in 41 of 99 (41%) subjects with an overall infection rate of 0.94 per 1000 CVAD‐days (interquartile ranges 0–1.7). A similar number of infections were observed in the two treatment arms (median: 2 and 3 in high dose and low dose respectively). Infections occurred more frequently in the presence of external catheters than with fully implanted catheters (P = 0.026). Infected patients were significantly younger at the time of CVAD insertion (median age: 22 vs. 25 months, P = 0.020). Patients with Gram‐positive infections were also significantly younger than those with Gram‐negative infections (median age: 17 vs. 25 months, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

CVAD infection was the most common complication observed in children with severe haemophilia and inhibitors in the frame of the I‐ITI study. Younger age at CVAD insertion and external CVAD were associated with higher risk for infection. ITI outcome was unaffected by CVAD infections.
Sumatriptan Iontophoretic Transdermal System Reduces Treatment‐Emergent Nausea and Is Effective in Patients With and Without Nausea at Baseline – Results From a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Bigal Marcelo E. , Lipton Richard B. , Newman Lawrence C. , Pierce Mark W. , Silberstein Stephen D.
Published: July 2015

Objectives

To test the hypothesis that sumatriptan iontophoretic transdermal system (TDS) is associated with lower rates of treatment‐emergent nausea (TEN) relative to placebo, as well as to compare the efficacy of sumatriptan TDS in migraineurs with or without nausea at baseline.

Methods

Participants of a double‐blind, randomized, parallel‐group, single‐attack, placebo‐controlled study conducted at 38 sites in the United States were analyzed. Participants who treated their migraine attacks while nausea‐free were identified. The primary endpoint was TEN over 24 hours post‐treatment contrasting both treatment groups and it was assessed by regression analyses using generalized estimating equations. Secondary endpoint was headache response as a function of presence of nausea, assessed by generalized linear model.

Results

A total of 130 participants free of nausea at baseline were treated with sumatriptan TDS, while 109 participants free of nausea at baseline were treated with placebo TDS. The occurrence of TEN over 24 hours post‐treatment was significantly lower with the sumatriptan TDS than with placebo (P = .0011). These differences were statistically significant at 1 hour (13.8% vs 9.2%, P < .01), 2 hours (13.8% vs 4.6% P < .001) and 3 hours (13.8% vs 8.5% P < .01). The efficacy of sumatriptan TDS was similar regardless of the presence or absence of nausea at baseline for all clinical parameters.

Conclusion

Sumatriptan TDS is not associated with the emergence of nausea in migraineurs without nausea. It is equally effective in participants with or without nausea at the time of treatment.
Association of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease with impaired endothelial function by flow‐mediated dilation: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Fan Yu , Wei Feifei , Zhou Yongjing , Zhang Heng
Published: July 2015

Aim

Endothelial dysfunction was observed in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the extent of endothelial function impairment in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Methods

We systematically searched through the PubMed, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang databases for studies dated up to January 2015. All observational studies that compared endothelial function between non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease patients and healthy controls were included. Endothelial function was measured by brachial artery flow‐mediated dilation and nitrate‐induced dilatation techniques.

Results

Eleven observational studies were identified. Meta‐analysis indicated that non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease patients were associated with a reduction in brachial artery flow‐mediated dilation (weighted mean difference, –4.82%; 95% confidence interval [CI], –5.63 to –4.00) compared with the healthy controls. Subgroup analysis indicated that the patients with non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis or a body mass index of more than 30 kg/m2 appeared to have a greater reduction in their flow‐mediated dilation. However, no significant differences were observed in the nitrate‐induced dilation (weighted mean difference, –0.4%; 95% confidence interval, –2.19 to 1.39).

Conclusion

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease is associated with a greater risk of endothelial dysfunction as indicated by the decreased brachial artery flow‐mediated dilation. Assessment of endothelial function may be recommended to identify subclinical atherosclerosis and to create subgroups of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease patients who are at higher risk of future cardiovascular events.
Early to Middle Miocene rotational tectonics of the Ou Backbone Range, northeast Japan
Authors: Hosoi Jun , Okada Makoto , Gokan Tomohiro , Amano Kazuo , Martin Andrew James
Published: July 2015

It is well known that a counterclockwise rotation occurred in the Miocene in northeast Japan. However, the detailed timing and mechanism of the rotation has been debated. Moreover, there has been no research about the relationship between rotational tectonics and the evolution of sedimentary basins. We carried out paleomagnetic and rock magnetic analyses in Nishiwaga Town, Iwate Prefecture, northeast Japan, where the stratigraphy and sedimentary basin formation have previously been clarified. We found that there was a counterclockwise rotational movement of about 45° at about 15 Ma. From our results and previous studies on the tectonics and sedimentary basin development, we are able to ascertain the following tectonic history and sedimentary basin evolution in this area: (i) before the rotational movement, sandstone and mudstone were deposited in a tranquil environment with no volcanic activity coupled with slow tectonic subsidence; (ii) between 16.4–15.1 Ma and 14 Ma, a counterclockwise rotation occurred with rapid tectonic subsidence and continuous explosive volcanism; (iii) at about 14 Ma, the counterclockwise rotation ended and there was a reduction in both subsidence and volcanism. This result shows the impact that rotational tectonics can have on sedimentary basin formation.
Patterns in departure phenology and mass gain on African non‐breeding territories prior to theSahara crossing in a long‐distance migrant
Authors: Risely Alice , Blackburn Emma , Cresswell Will
Published: July 2015

Afro‐Palaearctic migrants are declining to a greater degree than other European species, suggesting that processes occurring inAfrica or on migration may be driving these trends. Constraints on food availability on the wintering grounds may contribute to these declines but little is known about when and where these resource constraints may occur. Sufficient resources are particularly important prior to spring migration, when migrants must cross the Sahara Desert. We examined mass gain and departure phenology in a long‐distance Palaearctic passerine migrant to determine the degree to which pre‐migratory fattening occurs in their long‐term non‐breeding territories in theGuineaSavannah region ofAfrica. We monitored 75WhinchatsSaxicola rubetrafor departure from their non‐breeding territories in one spring, and analysed mass data of 377 Whinchats collected over three non‐breeding seasons plus 141 migratingWhinchats caught inApril over 8 years, all within the same few square kilometres of human‐modifiedGuineaSavannah in centralNigeria.Whinchats left their winter territories throughoutApril, with males departing on average 8 days earlier than females. However, there was no evidence that time of departure from territory was linked to age, body size or mass at capture. Whinchats departed their territories with a predicted mass of 16.8 ± 0.3 g, considerably less than thec. 24 g required for the average Whinchat to cross the Sahara directly. Comparing departure dates with arrival dates in southern Europe showed a discrepancy of at least 2 weeks, suggesting that manyWhinchats spend considerable time on pre‐migratory fuelling outside their winter territory prior to crossing theSahara. Overwintering birds gained mass slowly duringFebruary andMarch (0.03 g/day), and non‐territorial or migrating birds at a much higher rate inApril (at least 0.23 g/day), with up to 20% of migratingWhinchats inApril potentially having sufficient fuel loads to cross the Sahara directly from centralNigeria. Our results suggest that mostWhinchats leave their winter territories to fatten up locally or, possibly, by staging further north, closer to the southern limit of theSahara. Resource constraints are therefore likely to be particularly focused inWestAfrica during mid‐April and possibly at staging areas before the crossing of theSaharaDesert.
The influence of hair lipids in ethnic hair properties
Authors: Martí M. , Barba C. , Manich A. M. , Rubio L. , Alonso C. , Coderch L.
Published: July 2015

Objective

Biochemical studies have mainly focused on the composition of hair. African hair exhibited lower moisturization and less radial swelling when flushing with water compared with Asian or Caucasian hair, and they assumed a possible lipid differentiation among human populations. This study consists in the lipid characterization of different ethnic hairs (Caucasian, Asian and African hairs) and the influence of these lipids in different hair properties such as humidity and mechanical properties. Evaluation of water sorption and desorption of the different ethnic hairs and with and without lipids is also studied mainly to determine permeation changes of the keratin fibres.

Methods

Extractions of exogenous and endogenous lipids with different organic solvents were performed; lipid analysis and its quantification using thin‐layer chromatography coupled to an automated flame ionization detector (TLC/FID) were performed. Absorption and desorption curves were obtained in a thermogravimetric balance equipped with a controlled humidity chamber, the Q5000SA Sorption Analyzer (TA Instruments, New Castle, IL, U.S.A.). Also, mechanical properties (breaking stress and breaking elongation) were analysed using a computer programmable dynamometer (Instron 5500R).

Results

Lipid extraction showed the highest amount of total lipids for the African hair which may come from external sebaceous lipids compared with Asian or Caucasian hair. Caucasian fibres were found to be the most hydrated fibre, and a decrease in moisture was found in the extracted fibres, again, which is more important for the Caucasian hair. A superior lineal mass was found for the Asian fibres which supported their higher strength. The results obtained from the analysis of the mechanical properties of delipidized fibres indicate a surprising increase in the strength of African and Caucasian fibres. Perhaps this increase in strength could be related to the humidity decrease in lipid‐extracted hair fibres.

Results of water uptake and desorption indicate that Asian and Caucasian hairs present the lower diffusion coefficients compared with the African ones.

At least for the African fibre, an extraction of its lipids that mainly account for apolar lipids ameliorates the fibre structure, decreasing its permeability to water and increasing its tensile strength.

Conclusion

The ethnic hairs were assessed related to their lipid composition, and some differences between them were found in terms of water uptake and mechanical properties.
Novel D323G mutation of DSG4 gene in a girl with localized autosomal recessive hypotrichosis clinically overlapped with monilethrix
Authors: Wang Jia‐Man , Xiao Yu‐Juan , Liang Yan‐Hua
Published: July 2015

Background

Localized autosomal recessive hypotrichosis (LAH) is an inherited rare disease caused by DSG4 mutations, characterized by short, sparse, brittle hair affecting restricted areas such as the scalp, trunk, and extremities. To date, DSG4 mutations have been reported in 14 pedigrees of LAH overlapping with monilethrix.

Methods

To clarify the etiology of hair defects for a 2‐year‐old Chinese girl, peripheral blood, skin, and hair samples were collected, and skin immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy (scanning and transmission types), Vivascope confocal microscopy, and DSG4 sequencing were investigated.

Results

The patient presented sparse hairs of various length and follicular hyperkeratotic papules. Eyebrows and lashes were also involved (broke or shed). The biopsy specimen revealed curled ingrown hair shafts within the hair follicle and keratin‐filled hair follicles. Scanning electron microscopy revealed hair cuticle loosely and irregularly arranged, as well as a marked warping, curling, cracking, and detachment of hair cuticle. Transmission electron microscopy indicated notable dysadhesion between cells of the outer root sheath. A homozygous mutation A1103G in exon 8 of DSG4 was identified in the patient, resulting in the substitution of an aspartic acid by glycine (D323G) and reduced DSG4 expression in the affected scalp epidermis.

Conclusions

The homozygous A1103G mutation in DSG4 was responsible for the disease development.
Advances in sentinel node dissection in prostate cancer from a technical perspective
Authors: Acar Cenk , Kleinjan Gijs H , van den Berg Nynke S , Wit Esther MK , van Leeuwen Fijs WB , van der Poel Henk G
Published: July 2015

The most important feature of sentinel node biopsy for prostate cancer procedure is that staging can be improved. Sentinel nodes might be found outside the extended pelvic lymph node dissection template what renders the sentinel node additive of extended pelvic lymph node dissection. At the same time, staging within the template can be further refined. We reviewed the literature regarding the sentinel node biopsy procedure for prostate cancer. PubMed and Embase were searched for all English‐language publications from January 1999 to September 2014 by using the keywords as “prostate cancer” and “sentinel lymph node” plus “biopsy” “dissection” and/or “procedure.” The present review discusses step‐by‐step sentinel node biopsy for prostate cancer. Topics of discussion are: (i) preoperative sentinel node mapping (tracers and imaging); (ii) intraoperative sentinel node identification (surgical procedure and outcome); and (iii) novelties to improve sentinel node identification (pre‐ and intraoperative approaches). Conventional sentinel node mapping is carried out after the injection of a 99mTc‐based tracer and subsequent preoperative imaging; for example, lymphoscintigraphy and single‐photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography. This approach allowed the detection of sentinel nodes outside the extended lymph node dissection template in 3.6–36% of men with intermediate‐ and high‐risk prostate cancer. Hereby, an overall false negative rate of sentinel nodes was reported between 0% and 24.4%. To further refine the intraoperative sampling procedure, novel imaging methods such as fluorescence imaging have been introduced. Prospective randomized comparison studies are required to confirm the added benefit of sentinel template directed nodal dissection. A proper and obtainable end‐point of such a study could be the number of removed positive nodes for carrying out nodal dissection with or without sentinel template directed dissection. Similarly, the clinical impact of novel imaging technologies requires further investigation.
Systematic review of lower urinary tract symptoms/benign prostatic hyperplasia surgical treatments on men's ejaculatory function: Time for a bespoke approach?
Authors: Marra Giancarlo , Sturch Paul , Oderda Marco , Tabatabaei Shahin , Muir Gordon , Gontero Paolo
Published: July 2015

Although ejaculatory dysfunction is common for patients undergoing benign prostatic hyperplasia surgery, no clear evidence is present to counsel men seeking to preserve ejaculation. Our aim was to evaluate ejaculatory dysfunction in relation to benign prostatic hyperplasia surgery. We carried out a web and manual search using MEDLINE and Embase including randomized controlled trials reporting ejaculatory dysfunction after benign prostatic hyperplasia surgery: 42 randomized controlled trials comprising a total of 3857 patients were included. Only one study had ejaculatory dysfunction as a primary outcome, and just 10 evaluated ejaculatory dysfunction before and after surgery. The definition of ejaculatory dysfunction was not standardized. Similarly, just seven studies used internationally validated questionnaires to address ejaculatory dysfunction. The reported rates of ejaculatory dysfunction after resectional elecrosurgery, laser procedures, coagulation, ablation and implant techniques were assessed and compared. Transurethral resection of the prostate and recent laser procedures including holmium, thulium and GreenLight cause similar rates of ejaculatory dysfunction, occurring in almost three out of four to five men. Although providing less symptomatic benefit compared with transurethral resection of the prostate, transurethral incision of the prostate, transurethral needle ablation and transurethral microwave thermotherapy should be considered for men aiming to maintain normal ejaculation. UroLift is also a recent promising option for this category of patients. The vast majority of studies reporting ejaculatory dysfunction after benign prostatic hyperplasia surgery used poor methodology to investigate this complication. Future studies able to address clear hypothesis and considering ejaculatory dysfunction anatomical and pathophysiological features are required to develop ejaculation preserving techniques and to increase the evidence to counsel men aiming to preserve ejaculation.
The Interaction between Race and Nativity on the Housing Market: Homeownership and House Value of Black Immigrants in the United States
Authors: Tesfai Rebbeca
Published: July 2015

There is extensive research investigating race and nativity disparities in the US housing market, but little focuses on the group representing the intersection of the two literatures. This study investigates whether black immigrants are disadvantaged due to racial stratification or are able to leverage human or ethnic capital into positive housing market outcomes compared to US-born blacks. I find that racial stratification affects the housing market outcomes of black immigrants. However, high homeownership and house value relative to US-born blacks suggest that immigrants are able to use ethnic community capital to avoid some of the disadvantage experienced by native-born blacks.
Effect of Binder Composition on WC Grain Growth in Cemented Carbides
Authors: Pellan Maxime , Lay Sabine , Missiaen Jean‐Michel , Norgren Susanne , Angseryd Jenny , Coronel Ernesto , Persson Tomas
Published: July 2015

In this work, the effects of cobalt content and C/W ratio on grain growth are studied, in order to better understand the mechanisms. Powder compacts were sintered at 1410°C for 1 and 5 h. The relative contribution of carbide dissolution in the binder and grain growth for the evolution of the size distribution is discussed. Grain size measurements were made with the Electron BackScattered Diffraction technique. The distribution of 2D equivalent disk diameters was converted in a distribution of 3D equivalent sphere diameters, with the Saltykov method. High cobalt content favors grain growth in W‐rich samples whereas it has a slight influence on C‐rich samples. But still grain growth is significantly faster in C‐rich samples. Variation in the D90/D10 ratio indicates a tendency to abnormal growth, with a broadening of the size distribution between 1 and 5 h, favored by high binder content.
Support Needs of Fathers of Children with ASD: Individual, Family, Community and Ideological Influences
Authors: Shave Kassi , Lashewicz Bonnie
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Fathers are increasingly involved in caring for children, and involvement by fathers of children with ASD is distinctly impacted by added demands of their child's diagnosis. Yet supports for families of children with ASD are not tailored to needs of fathers. We use an ecological framework to examine how fathers’ needs are influenced by contexts ranging from the immediacy of their child's behaviour to overarching expectations for good fathering.

Methods

We thematically analyse data from semi‐structured interviews with 28 fathers of children with ASD who shared parenting stories of navigating their immediate and broader environments.

Findings

Fathers are responsive and reflective in their parenting and value recreationally based support activities that include their children. Fathers endorse father‐to‐father support and are interested in mentoring fathers newer to the experience of having a child with ASD.

Conclusions

Fathers are resourceful parents who compel a critical re‐examination towards advances in father‐friendly practices.
Genetic analysis of sow longevity and sow lifetime reproductive traits using censored data
Authors: Engblom L. , Calderón Díaz J.A. , Nikkilä M. , Gray K. , Harms P. , Fix J. , Tsuruta S. , Mabry J. , Stalder K.
Published: July 2015

Sow longevity is a key component for efficient and profitable pig farming; however, approximately 50% of sows are removed annually from a breeding herd. There is no consensus in the scientific literature regarding a definition for sow longevity; however, it has been suggested that it can be measured using several methods such as stayability and economic indicators such as lifetime piglets produced. Sow longevity can be improved by genetic selection; however, it is rarely included in genetic evaluations. One reason is elongated time intervals required to collect complete lifetime data. The effect of genetic parameter estimation software in handling incomplete data (censoring) and possible early indicator traits were evaluated analysing a 30% censored data set (12 725 pedigreed Landrace × Large White sows that included approximately 30% censored data) withDMU6,THRGIBBS1F90 andGIBBS2CEN. Heritability estimates were low for all the traits evaluated. The results show that the binary stayability traits benefited from being analysed with a threshold model compared to analysing with a linear model. Sires were ranked very similarly regardless if the program handled censoring when all available data were included. Accumulated born alive and stayability were good indicators for lifetime born alive traits. Number of piglets born alive within each parity could be used as an early indicator trait for sow longevity.
Modification of the Unipolar Atrial Electrogram as a Local Endpoint During Common Atrial Flutter Ablation
Authors: PAMBRUN THOMAS , ROIG JÉRÉMIE , BOUZEMAN ABDESLAM , MAUPAS ERIC , CIOBOTARU VLAD , BOULENC JEAN‐MARC , APPETITI ANTHONY , PUJADAS‐BERTHAULT PÉNÉLOPE , RIOUX PHILIPPE , BORTONE AGUSTÍN
Published: July 2015

Unipolar Signal and Atrial Flutter Ablation

Introduction

Complete elimination of the negative component of the unipolar atrial electrogram recently proved predictive of lesions transmurality. We prospectively assessed its relevance as a real‐time local ablative endpoint for each individual lesion created across the cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) in order to constitute a line of bidirectionnal block during common atrial flutter (AFL) ablation.

Methods and Results

Sixty‐two consecutive patients underwent common AFL ablation following an electrophysiological approach guided by real‐time electrogram modification analysis. In 31 patients (unipolar group), the local ablative endpoint was complete elimination of the negative component of the unipolar atrial electrogram, while the other 31 patients (control group) were treated following our standard approach based on the currently used local ablative endpoint defined by a ≥50% amplitude decrease of the bipolar atrial electrogram. Bidirectional block was achieved in all patients (mean age 67.9 ± 11.5 with 80.6% of men). Mean ablation time (164.3 ± 88.3 seconds vs 332.8 ± 151.5 seconds; P < 0.001) and mean energy delivery (7.5 ± 4.1 kJ vs 14.2 ± 6 kJ; P < 0.001) were significantly shorter in the unipolar group compared to the control group. No statistical differences were seen in procedure time (68.5 ± 22.6 min vs 77.5 ± 20.2 min; P = 0.10).

Conclusion

Real‐time unipolar electrogram modification is a relevant local endpoint during common AFL ablation and leads to a substantial reduction of ablation time and energy delivery compared to a standard ablative approach while displaying a similar short‐ and long‐term success rate.
Altitudinal flower size variation correlates with local pollinator size in a bumblebee‐pollinated herb,Prunella vulgarisL. (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Kuriya S. , Hattori M. , Nagano Y. , Itino T.
Published: July 2015

The influence of locally different species interactions on trait evolution is a focus of recent evolutionary studies. However, few studies have demonstrated that geographically different pollinator‐mediated selection influences geographic variation in floral traits, especially across a narrow geographic range. Here, we hypothesized that floral size variation in the Japanese herbPrunella vulgarisL. (Lamiaceae) is affected by geographically different pollinator sizes reflecting different pollinator assemblages. To evaluate this hypothesis, we posed two questions. (1) Is there a positive correlation between floral length and the proboscis length of pollinators (bumblebees) across altitude in a mountain range? (2) Does the flower–pollinator size match influence female and male plant fitness? We found geographic variation in the assemblage of pollinators ofP. vulgarisalong an altitudinal gradient, and, as a consequence, the mean pollinator proboscis length also changed altitudinally. The floral corolla length ofP. vulgarisalso varied along an altitudinal gradient, and this variation strongly correlated with the local pollinator size but did not correlate with altitude itself. Furthermore, we found that the size match between the floral corolla length and bee proboscis length affected female and male plant fitness and the optimal size match (associated with peak fitness) was similar for the female and male fitness. Collectively, these results suggest that pollinator‐mediated selection influences spatial variation in the size ofP. vulgarisflowers at a fine spatial scale.