bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unravelling the evolutionary history and future prospects of endemic species restricted to former glacial refugia
Authors: Razgour Orly , Salicini Irene , Ibáñez Carlos , Randi Ettore , Juste Javier
Published: September 2015

The contemporary distribution and genetic composition of biodiversity bear a signature of species’ evolutionary histories and the effects of past climatic oscillations. For many European species, the Mediterranean peninsulas of Iberia, Italy and the Balkans acted as glacial refugia and the source of range recolonization, and as a result, they contain disproportionately high levels of diversity. As these areas are particularly threatened by future climate change, it is important to understand how past climatic changes affected their biodiversity. We use an integrated approach, combining markers with different evolutionary rates and combining phylogenetic analysis with approximate Bayesian computation and species distribution modelling across temporal scales. We relate phylogeographic processes to patterns of genetic variation in Myotis escalerai, a bat species endemic to the Iberian Peninsula. We found a distinct population structure at the mitochondrial level with a strong geographic signature, indicating lineage divergence into separate glacial refugia within the Iberian refugium. However, microsatellite markers suggest higher levels of gene flow resulting in more limited structure at recent time frames. The evolutionary history of M. escalerai was shaped by the effects of climatic oscillations and changes in forest cover and composition, while its future is threatened by climatically induced range contractions and the role of ecological barriers due to competition interactions in restricting its distribution. This study warns that Mediterranean peninsulas, which provided refuge for European biodiversity during past glaciation events, may become a trap for limited dispersal and ecologically limited endemic species under future climate change, resulting in loss of entire lineages.
Molecular identification and antifungal susceptibility of Curvularia australiensis, C. hawaiiensis and C. spicifera isolated from human eye infections
Authors: Krizsán Krisztina , Tóth Eszter , Nagy László G. , Galgóczy László , Manikandan Palanisamy , Chandrasekaran Muthusamy , Kadaikunnan Shine , Alharbi Naiyf S. , Vágvölgyi Csaba , Papp Tamás
Published: September 2015

A reliable identification method was developed for three closely related Curvularia species, which are frequently isolated from human keratomycoses. Since the traditionally used morphological method and the increasingly used internal transcribed spacer (ITS)‐based molecular method proved to be insufficient to discern C. australiensis, C. hawaiiensis and C. spicifera, other molecular targets, such as β‐tubulin, translation elongation factor 1‐α and the nuclear ribosomal intergenic spacer (IGS), were tested. Among them, the use of the highly divergent IGS sequence is suggested and the species‐specific discriminating characters were determined in appropriate reference strains. It was also concluded that C. hawaiiensis and C. spicifera can be predominantly isolated from eye infections among the three species. The in vitro antifungal susceptibility of 10 currently used antifungal agents against 32 Curvularia isolates was also investigated. MICs were determined in each case. Isolates of C. spicifera proved to be less susceptible to the tested antifungals than those of C. hawaiiensis, which underline the importance of the correct identification of these species.
Effect of orlistat on glycaemic control in overweight and obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Aldekhail N. M. , Logue J. , McLoone P. , Morrison D. S.
Published: September 2015

Orlistat is an effective adjunctive treatment to lifestyle modifications in the treatment of obesity. While the majority of current evidence is on the effect of orlistat in obese patients without diabetes, some studies suggest that patients who are obese and have diabetes mellitus lose more weight and have greater improvements in diabetic outcomes when treated with orlistat plus a lifestyle intervention than when treated by lifestyle interventions alone. The aim of this study was to review the evidence of the effects of orlistat on glycaemic control in overweight and obese patients with type 2 diabetes. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials of orlistat in people with type 2 diabetes reporting diabetes outcomes in studies published between January 1990 and September 2013 was conducted. We searched for articles published in English in MEDLINE and EMBASE. Inclusion criteria included all randomized controlled trials of orlistat carried out on adult participants with a body mass index of 25 kg m−2 or over diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, which reported weight change and at least one diabetic outcome. A total of 765 articles were identified out of which 12 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The overall mean weight reduction (3, 6 and 12 months) in the orlistat group was −4.25 kg (95% CI: −4.5 to −3.9 kg). The mean weight difference between treatment and control groups was −2.10 kg (95% CI: −2.3 to −1.8 kg, P < 0.001), the mean HbA1c difference was −6.12 mmol mol−1 (95% CI: −10.3 to −1.9 mmol mol−1, P < 0.004) and the mean fasting blood glucose difference was −1.16 mmol L−1 (95% CI: −1.4 to −0.8 mmol L−1, P < 0.001). Treatment with orlistat plus lifestyle intervention resulted in significantly greater weight loss and improved glycaemic control in overweight and obese patients with type 2 diabetes compared with lifestyle intervention alone.
Cultural Mediators and the Circulation of Cultural Identities in Interwar Bilingual Belgium
Authors: Lobbes Tessa , Meylaerts Reine
Published: September 2015

During the interwar period, bilingual Belgium found itself in an existential crisis. In the 1920s and 1930s, growing linguistic conflicts between Dutch‐ and French‐speakers criticized the legitimacy of a unified Belgian nation and a solid national identity. In cultural life, that is in literary and artistic journals, in the course of arts exhibitions, in theatre life and in academies of fine arts, the validity of diverse cultural identities within Belgium was debated. Consequently, cultural and linguistic borders were shifting. In this article, the circulation of cultural identities in a conflicted bilingual country is analysed through the examination of the cultural transfers of one cultural mediator, Gaston Pulings. As a mediator, Pulings constantly transgressed political‐cultural, linguistic and artistic borders and his cultural practices were largely related to the construction, promotion or rejection of diverse cultural identities.
Development of genomewide simple sequence repeat fingerprints and highly polymorphic markers in cucumbers based on next‐generation sequence data
Authors: Liu Jian , Qu Jingtao , Hu Kun , Zhang Lei , Li Jingwei , Wu Bing , Luo Chengjin , Wei Aimin , Han Yike , Cui Xinghua
Published: September 2015

Cucumbers are one of the most important vegetable crops worldwide. The molecular markers have substantial potential to improve the efficiency of conventional cucumber breeding. In this study, a total of 101 157 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were identified across the cucumber 9930 genome. Most (69 526 of 76 103 or 91.36%) SSRs with unique flanking sequences (unique SSRs) had polymorphisms among 103 cucumber genomes; the number of alleles ranged from 2 to 34 with an average of 4.70. Next, we selected 7486 unique SSR loci with polymorphism information content (PIC) ≥0.5 and major allele differences (the size difference between the alleles with the highest and the second highest frequency) ≥3 bp to design primers. The SSR marker polymorphisms were experimentally validated; 50 highly polymorphic SSR markers had polymorphisms with an average PIC of 0.44. PCR analysis also indicated that these SSR markers could be effectively used as molecular markers. The SSR fingerprints and polymorphic SSR markers with large major allele differences could enhance the efficiency of genetic research and marker‐assisted breeding in cucumbers.
Outcome of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in children and adolescents with relapsed or refractory Hodgkin's lymphoma
Authors: Hazar Volkan , Kesik Vural , Aksoylar Serap , Karakukcu Musa , Ozturk Gulyuz , Kupesiz Alphan , Atas Erman , Oniz Haldun , Kansoy Savas , Unal Ekrem , Tanyeli Atila , Erbey Fatih , Elli Murat , Tacyildiz Nurdan , Karasu Gulsun Tezcan , Kocak Ulker , Anak Sema , Yilmaz Bengoa Sebnem , Sezgin Gulay , Atay Didem , Unal Emel , Uygun Vedat , Kurucu Nilgun , Kaya Zuhre , Yesilipek Akif ,   the Turkish Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplantation Study Group (TPBMT‐SG)
Published: September 2015

This study evaluates the outcome of 66 pediatric patients with rrHL who underwent autoHSCT. Twenty‐nine patients experienced early relapse, and 19 patients experienced late relapse. Of 18 newly diagnosed with HL, 13 were primary refractory disease and five had late responsive disease. At the time of transplantation, only 68% of the patients were chemosensitive. The majority of patients received BCNU + etoposide + ara‐C + melphalan for conditioning (45/66), and peripheral blood (56/66) was used as a source of stem cells. After a median follow‐up period of 39 months, 46 patients were alive. At five yr, the probabilities of OS, EFS, the relapse rate, and the non‐relapse mortality rate were 63.1%, 54.3%, 36.4%, and 9.1%, respectively. The probability of EFS in chemosensitive and chemoresistant patients at five yr was 72.3% and 19%, respectively (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that chemoresistant disease at the time of transplantation was the only factor predicting limited both OS (hazard ratio = 4.073) and EFS (hazard ratio = 4.599). AutoHSCT plays an important role for the treatment of rrHL in children and adolescents, and survival rates are better for patients with chemosensitive disease at the time of transplantation.
Clusters of proliferating endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells in rabbit carotid arteries
Authors: Takahashi Masato , Masuda Hirotake , Yoshida Makoto , Ito Yukinobu , Nanjo Hiroshi , Sugiyama Tatsuo , Maeda Daichi , Goto Akiteru
Published: September 2015

Schwarz and Benditt found clustering of replicating cells in aortic endothelium in 1976 and discussed how homeostasis of the arterial wall is maintained through this nonrandom distribution of replicating cells. However, it is still unclear how cells of vascular walls turnover. In order to address this issue, we evaluated distribution of the cells in mitotic cycle, labeled by Ki67‐immunostaining, in serial histological sections of twelve carotid arteries of six adult male Japanese rabbits. As a result, a total of 1713 Ki67‐positive endothelial cells (ECs) and 1247 Ki67‐positive smooth muscle cells (SMCs) were identified. The Ki67‐positivity rate in ECs and SMCs were about 0.048% and 0.0027%, respectively. Many of the Ki67‐positive cells clustered in two (EC, 37%; SMC, 33%), three to four (EC, 8%; SMC, 28%), and five to eight cells (EC, 5%; SMC, 10%). Clusters having more than eight cells were not found. Thus, it can be speculated that the cell division of proliferating ECs and SMCs occur four times at most. These novel findings offer great insights for better understanding of the mechanism that underlies cell number regulation of the blood vessel.
Frequent loss of the expression of multiple subunits of the SWI/SNF complex in large cell carcinoma and pleomorphic carcinoma of the lung
Authors: Yoshimoto Taichiro , Matsubara Daisuke , Nakano Tomoyuki , Tamura Tomoko , Endo Shunsuke , Sugiyama Yukihiko , Niki Toshiro
Published: September 2015

The switch/sucrose non‐fermenting (SWI/SNF) complex has recently emerged as a novel tumor suppressor in various human cancers. In the present study, we analyzed the expression of multiple SWI/SNF subunits in primary non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). A total of 133 NSCLC, consisting of 25 squamous cell carcinomas (SCC), 70 adenocarcinomas (AD), 16 large cell carcinomas (LC), and 22 pleomorphic carcinomas (PL), were immunohistochemically examined for the expression of BRG1, BRM, BAF47, ARID1A, and ARID1B. The frequency at which reductions in the expression of BRG1 were observed was significantly higher in the LC‐PL group (13/38, 34.2%) than in the SCC‐AD group (7/95, 7.4%). Similarly, the frequency at which reductions in the expression of BRM were observed was significantly higher in the LC‐PL group (17/38, 44.7%) than in the SCC‐AD group (14/95, 14.7%). The loss of the expression of ARID1A, ARID1B, and BAF47 was observed only in a fraction of NSCLC cases. Furthermore, the frequency at which the concurrent loss of multiple subunits of the SWI/SNF complex was observed was significantly higher in the LC‐PL group (10/38, 26.3%) than in the SCC‐AD group (8/95, 8.4%). Collectively, these results indicate that the loss of the SWI/SNF complex was related to dedifferentiation in NSCLC.
Three‐Dimensional Surface Water Waves Governed by the Forced Benney–Luke Equation
Authors: Curtis Christopher W. , Shen Samuel S. P.
Published: September 2015

This paper studies the propagation of three‐dimensional surface waves in water with an ambient current over a varying bathymetry. When the ambient flow is near the critical speed, under the shallow water assumptions, a forced Benney–Luke (fBL) equation is derived from the Euler equations. An asymptotic approximation of the water's reaction force over the varying bathymetry is derived in terms of topographic stress. Numerical simulations of the fBL equation over a trough are compared to those using a forced Kadomtsev–Petviashvilli equation. For larger variations in the bathymetry that upstream‐radiating three‐dimensional solitons are observed, which are different from the upstream‐radiating solitons simulated by the forced Kadomtsev–Petviashvilli equation. In this case, we show the fBL equation is a singular perturbation of the forced Kadomtsev–Petviashvilli equation which explains the significant differences between the two flows.
From the Real and Complex Coupled Dispersionless Equations to the Real and Complex Short Pulse Equations
Authors: Shen Shoufeng , Feng Bao‐Feng , Ohta Yasuhiro
Published: September 2015

In the present paper, we study the real and complex coupled dispersionless (CD) equations, the real and complex short pulse (SP) equations geometrically and algebraically. From the geometric point of view, we first establish the link of the motions of space curves to the real and complex CD equations, then to the real and complex SP equations via hodograph transformations. The integrability of these equations are confirmed by constructing their Lax pairs geometrically. In the second part of the paper, it is made clear for the connection between the real and complex CD and SP equations and the two‐component extended Kadomtsew‐Petviashvili (KP) hierarchy. As a by‐product, the N‐soliton solutions in the form of determinants for these equations are provided.
Combining garden therapy and supported employment – a method for preparing women on long‐term sick leave for working life
Authors: Lidén Eva , Alstersjö Karin , Gurné Frida L. , Fransson Sandra , Bergbom Ingegerd
Published: September 2015

Women are overrepresented among the group people suffering from long‐term illness. In addition to their illness, suffering long‐term sick leave leads to economical restraints as well social distress. There are gaps in our understanding of the challenges these women face. There is also lack of knowledge about how these challenges can be effectively addressed in rehabilitation. This deficiency is problematic from an ethical, justice and a caring perspective. In this study, changes in health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) among women on long‐term sick leave were investigated during and after participating in a rehabilitation programme combining two validated methods, Garden Therapy and Supported Employment (SE). The study also discusses difficulties in realising research related to vulnerable under‐privileged people. From a population of 329 women who had reported their interest to participate, 245 were randomised to the programme. Of these 144 accepted participation in the research project and of these 123 women accepted to answer the SF‐36 questionnaire. The participants were between 21 and 62 years with poor physical and mental health. They had received public financial support from <1 year to >10 years. The SF‐36 measurement was carried out at baseline, after completion of Garden Therapy and after completion of SE. The results are based on data of respondents who participated at all the three occasions (n = 52). When comparing HRQoL baseline with the following occasions, the participants' General Health (GH), Vitality (VT), Social Functioning (SF) and mental health had improved significantly. The Four Leaf Clover (FLC) programme could be an appropriate method for reducing socially induced suffering. However, to conduct intervention studies where vulnerable persons are involved, it is off vital importance to consider whether the participants have the strength to complete the intervention.
Parental relationship satisfaction after the death of a child
Authors: Joronen Katja , Kaunonen Marja , Aho Anna Liisa
Published: September 2015

This study describes Finnish parents' (n = 461) parental relationship satisfaction and examines factors associated with relationship satisfaction after the death of a child in the family. This reported study is part of a broader investigation concerning parents' experiences after the death of a child. Most respondents were very (36%) or quite satisfied (49%) with their current relationship. Lower relationship satisfaction scores were reported by older respondents, people with poorer subjective health and people who had other living children. Causes of death other than stillbirth, need for marriage counselling and moderate or poor marital relationship of the respondents' own parents in childhood were also related to lower relationship satisfaction.
Family caregivers experiences of formal care when caring for persons with dementia through the process of the disease
Authors: Lethin Connie , Hallberg Ingalill Rahm , Karlsson Staffan , Janlöv Ann‐Christin
Published: September 2015

Background

Family caregivers' experiences of formal care when caring for persons with dementia through the process of the disease is sparsely investigated.

Aims

To investigate family caregivers' experiences of formal care when caring for a person with dementia, through the stages of the disease.

Design

A qualitative approach with focus group interviews.

Methods

Four focus group interviews were conducted in October 2011 with 23 spouses and adult children of persons with dementia and analysed with content analysis.

Results

The participants' experiences of formal care when caring for a person with dementia were captured in the theme ‘Family caregiving requires collaboration with formal care to get support adjusted to needs specific to the stages of dementia’. This can be broken down into the categories ‘The dementia diagnosis – entry into formal care as a novice family caregiver’, ‘Needing expanded collaboration with formal care to continue care at home’ and ‘Being dependent on a nursing home and trying to maintain involvement’.

Conclusion

Family caregiving requires collaboration with formal care to get support adjusted to the individual's needs, specific to the stages of dementia. Caregivers experience a transition process with three main turning points: the dementia diagnosis; when they realise increased need for formal care to continue caring at home; and when the person with dementia is moved into a nursing home. The interviewed caregivers experience formal care reactive to their needs and this often promoted unhealthy transitions. Formal care needs to be proactive and deliver available care and support early on in the dementia trajectory. Interventions should focus on facilitating a healthy transition for family caregivers through the trajectory of the dementia disease to ensure their well‐being.
A Review on the Potential Role of Basement Membrane Laminin in the Pathogenesis of Psoriasis
Authors: McFadden J. P. , Kimber I.
Published: September 2015

We have previously reviewed alterations to basement membrane laminin in psoriasis and how disruption of this layer could lead to at least some of the pathological changes observed. We here postulate that basement membrane laminin is the key antigen in driving psoriasis, inducing a T cell‐mediated autoimmune response. For laminin to be considered as the key autoantigen in psoriasis, it would be reasonable to expect the following to be demonstrable: (1) that autoantigens are present in psoriatic inflammation; (2) that basement membrane laminin is perturbed in involved and uninvolved skin, and that some of the pathological changes associated with psoriasis could be predicted as a sequel to this; (3) that disruption of the basement membrane is among the earliest events in the evolution of psoriatic lesions; (4) that as streptococcal pharyngitis is the most clearly defined event to trigger or exacerbate psoriasis, then a T cell‐mediated autoimmune response to laminin should be anticipated as a potential sequelae to streptococcal pharyngitis; (5) that T cells in psoriasis can be shown to react to peptides with homology to laminin; (6) that HLACw6, as the most closely related gene associated with psoriasis and which is involved in antigen expression, should be preferentially expressed within lesional psoriasis towards the basement membrane, together with other proximal associated immune activity; and (7) that there is some association between antilaminin pemphigoid, a humorally mediated autoimmune disease to skin basement membrane laminin, and psoriasis. We here review the data relevant to each of these requirements.
Enhanced Humoral Responses Induced by Targeting of Antigen to Murine Dendritic Cells
Authors: Pugholm L. H. , Petersen L. R. , Søndergaard E. K. L. , Varming K. , Agger R.
Published: September 2015

Dendritic cells (DCs) are superior in their ability to induce and control adaptive immune responses. These qualities have motivated the hypothesis that targeted delivery of antigen to DCs in vivo may be an effective way of enhancing immunization. Recent results show that antigen targeted to certain DC surface molecules may indeed induce robust immune responses. Targeting of antigen to DCs can be accomplished by the means of monoclonal antibodies. This study compared the humoral responses induced in mice by in vivo targeting of DCs using monoclonal antibodies specific for CD11c, CD36, CD205, Clec6A, Clec7A, Clec9A, Siglec‐H and PDC‐TREM. The results demonstrate that antigen delivery to different targets on DCs in vivo gives rise to humoral responses that differ in strength. Targeting of antigen to CD11c, CD36, CD205, Clec6A, Clec7A and PDC‐TREM induced significantly stronger antibody responses compared to non‐targeted isotype‐matched controls. Targeting of Clec9A and Siglec‐H did not lead to efficient antibody responses, which may be due to unfavourable properties of the targeting antibody, in which case, other antibodies with the same specificity might elicit a different outcome. Anti‐CD11c was additionally used for elucidating the impact of the route of vaccination, and the results showed only minor differences between the antibody responses induced after immunization either s.c., i.v. or i.p. Altogether, these data show that targeting of different surface molecules on DCs result in very different antibody responses and that, even in the absence of adjuvants, strong humoral responses was induced.
Physical activity among adolescents: The role of various kinds of parental support
Authors: Henriksen P. W. , Ingholt L. , Rasmussen M. , Holstein B. E.
Published: September 2015

The objectives of this study were (a) to examine the association between various kinds of parental social support and adolescents' physical activity (PA) and (b) to examine whether various kinds of social support from mothers and fathers were differently associated with boys' and girls' PA. Data came from the Aarhus School Survey that included 2100 schoolchildren at 11, 13, and 15 years of age. Parental social support for PA was measured by items about encouragement to do PA, doing joint PA, parents watching PA, and talking about PA. PA was measured as at least 4 h of vigorous PA per week during leisure time. We used logistic regression analyses to estimate the associations for girls and boys separately, adjusted by age group, parents' occupational social class, family structure, and migration status. There were significant and graded associations between adolescents' PA and all four dimensions of parental support for PA. The association patterns were similar for mothers' and fathers' social support and similar for girls and boys. Social processes in the family are important for adolescents' participation in PA. It is important to continue to explore these social processes in order to understand why some adolescents are physically active and others are not.
Effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on quadriceps function in individuals with experimental knee pain
Authors: Son S. J. , Kim H. , Seeley M. K. , Feland J. B. , Hopkins J. T.
Published: September 2015

Knee joint pain (KJP) is a cardinal symptom in knee pathologies, and quadriceps inhibition is commonly observed among KJP patients. Previously, KJP independently reduced quadriceps strength and activation. However, it remains unknown how disinhibitory transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) will affect inhibited quadriceps motor function. This study aimed at examining changes in quadriceps maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) and central activation ratio (CAR) before and after sensory TENS following experimental knee pain. Thirty healthy participants were assigned to either the TENS or placebo groups. All participants underwent three separate data collection sessions consisting of two saline infusions and one no infusion control in a crossover design. TENS or placebo treatment was administered to each group for 20 min. Quadriceps MVC and CAR were measured at baseline, infusion, treatment, and post‐treatment. Perceived knee pain intensity was measured on a 100‐mm visual analogue scale. Post‐hoc analysis revealed that hypertonic saline infusion significantly reduced the quadriceps MVC and CAR compared with control sessions (P < 0.05). Sensory TENS, however, significantly restored inhibited quadriceps motor function compared with placebo treatment (P < 0.05). There was a negative correlation between changes in MVC and knee pain (r = 0.33, P < 0.001), and CAR and knee pain (r = 0.62, P < 0.001), respectively.
Values in Middle Childhood: Social and Genetic Contributions
Authors: Uzefovsky Florina , Döring Anna K. , Knafo‐Noam Ariel
Published: September 2015

Theories of value development often identify adolescence as the period for value formation, and cultural and familial factors as the sources for value priorities. However, recent research suggests that value priorities can be observed as early as in middle childhood, and several studies, including one on preadolescents, have suggested a genetic contribution to individual differences in values. In the current study, 174 pairs of monozygotic and dizygotic seven‐year‐old Israeli twins completed the Picture‐based Value Survey for Children (PBVS–C). We replicated basic patterns of relations between value priorities and variables of socialization—gender, religiosity, and socioeconomic status—that have been found in studies with adults. Most important, values of Self‐transcendence, Self‐enhancement, and Conservation, were found to be significantly affected by genetic factors (29 percent, 47 percent, and 31 percent, respectively), as well as non‐shared environment (71 percent, 53 percent, and 69 percent, respectively). Openness to change values, in contrast, were found to be unaffected by genetic factors at this age and were influenced by shared (19 percent) and non‐shared (81 percent) environment. These findings support the recent view that values are formed at earlier ages than had been assumed previously, and they further our understanding of the genetic and environmental factors involved in value formation at young ages.
Classification by causes of dark circles and appropriate evaluation method of dark circles
Authors: Park S. R. , Kim H. J. , Park H. K. , Kim J. Y. , Kim N. S. , Byun K. S. , Moon T. K. , Byun J. W. , Moon J. H. , Choi G. S.
Published: September 2015

Background

Dark circles refer to a symptom that present darkness under the eyes. Because of improvement in the quality of life, the dark circles have been recognized as one of major cosmetic concerns. However, it is not easy to classify the dark circles because they have various causes.

Methods

To select suitable instruments and detailed evaluation items, the dark circles were classified according to the causes through visual assessment, Wood's lamp test, and medical history survey for 100 subjects with dark circles. After the classification, were newly recruited for instrument conformity assessment. Through this, suitable instruments for dark circle evaluation were selected. We performed a randomized clinical trial for dark circles, a placebo‐controlled double‐blind study, using effective parameters of the instruments selected from the preliminary test.

Results

Dark circles of vascular type (35%) and mixed type (54%), a combination of pigmented and vascular types, were the most common. Twenty four subjects with the mixed type dark circles applied the test product (Vitamin C 3%, Vitamin A 0.1%, Vitamin E 0.5%) and placebo on randomized split‐face for 8 weeks. The effective parameters (L*, a, M.I., E.I., quasi L*, quasi a* and dermal thickness) were measured during the study period. Result showed that the L* value of Chromameter®, Melanin index (M.I.) of Mexameter® and quasi L* value obtained by image analysis improved with statistical significance after applying the test product compared with the placebo product.

Conclusion

We classified the dark circles according to the causes of the dark circles and verified the reliability of the parameter obtained by the instrument conformity assessment used in this study through the efficacy evaluation. Also based on this study, we were to suggest newly established methods which can be applied to the evaluation of efficacy of functional cosmetics for dark circles.
Voriconazole‐induced periostitis post transplant: an illustrative review of thoracic computed tomography imaging manifestations
Authors: Rheinboldt M. , Delproposto Z. , Agarwal R.
Published: September 2015

Voriconazole, first commercially approved in 2002 as a second‐generation antifungal agent, is commonly used in the immunocompromised setting as both a therapeutic and prophylactic agent. Since 2009, scattered case reports and small case series have detailed a secondary drug‐related hyperfluorosis‐induced painful periostitis that can occur in the treated patient population. We present a pictorial review of the thoracic imaging manifestations utilizing 3 illustrative cases in the setting of both solid organ and bone marrow transplantation. Knowledge of the relatively characteristic radiographic appearance and distribution, when coupled with the appropriate clinical context and associated laboratory findings, is important in narrowing an otherwise relatively broad differential diagnosis.
Voriconazole therapeutic drug monitoring: results of a prematurely discontinued randomized multicenter trial
Authors: Neofytos D. , Ostrander D. , Shoham S. , Laverdiere M. , Hiemenz J. , Nguyen H. , Clarke W. , Brass L. , Lu N. , Marr K.A.
Published: September 2015

Background

Voriconazole (VOR) levels are highly variable, with potential implications to both efficacy and safety. We hypothesized that VOR therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) will decrease the incidence of treatment failures and adverse events (AEs).

Methods

We initiated a prospective, randomized, non‐blinded multicenter study to compare clinical outcomes in adult patients randomized to standard dosing (clinician‐driven) vs. TDM (doses adjusted based on levels). VOR trough levels were obtained on day 5, 14, 28, and 42 (or at completion of drug; ± 3 days). Real‐time dose adjustments were made to maintain a range between 1–5 μg/mL on the TDM‐arm, while levels were assessed retrospectively in the standard‐arm. Patient questionnaires were administered to assess subjective AEs.

Results

The study was discontinued prematurely, after 29 patients were enrolled. Seventeen (58.6%) patients experienced 38 AEs: visual changes (22/38, 57.9%), neurological symptoms (13/38, 34.2%), and liver abnormalities (3/38, 7.9%). VOR was discontinued in 7 (25%) patients because of an AE (4 standard‐arm, 3 TDM‐arm). VOR levels were frequently out of range in the standard‐arm (8 tests >5 μg/mL; 9 tests <1 μg/mL). Three dose changes occurred in the TDM‐arm for VOR levels <1 μg/mL. Levels decreased over time in the standard‐arm, with mean VOR levels lower at end of therapy compared to TDM (1.3 vs. 4.6 μg/mL, P = 0.008).

Conclusions

VOR TDM has become widespread clinical practice, based on known variability in drug levels, which impaired accrual in this study. Although comparative conclusions are limited, observations of variability and waning levels over time support TDM.
A critical geopolitics of observant practice at British military airshows
Authors: Rech Matthew F
Published: September 2015

This paper demonstrates how visual cultures of militarism take shape as part of a ‘thick’ geopolitics of being‐in‐place. It draws on historical accounts of, and empirical observations at, British military airshows, which it interprets via the concept of ‘observant practice’. The paper argues that the imaginative and rhetorical force of military spectacle and popular militarism are tied to its markedly enclavic spatiality, i.e. to seeing and doing in‐place. By taking seriously the spatial and sensory experience of British airshows, the paper extends recent work in critical geopolitics that questions the spatialised politics of experience, and brings them into dialogue with cultural geographies of tourism. It provides a brief history of the spectacular origins of aviation and of the use of airshows to the practice of statecraft, and demonstrates how airshows are an important element in the cultural phenomenon of militarisation. The paper takes forward debates around ‘the vision thing’ in critical geopolitics by illustrating why the notion of observant practice should not be dissociated from consideration of the spaces in and through which militaries become the object of visual curiosity. It expands, therefore, the potential of observant practice as a critique of popular military cultures.
Recombinant Culicoides obsoletus complex allergens stimulate antigen‐specific T cells of insect bite hypersensitive Shetland ponies in vitro
Authors: Meulenbroeks Chantal , van der Meide Nathalie M.A. , Willemse Ton , Rutten Victor P.M.G. , Tijhaar Edwin
Published: September 2015

Background

Ponies may suffer from Insect bite hypersensitivity (IBH), an allergic IgE‐mediated pruritic skin disorder, induced by allergens from biting midges of the Culicoides spp.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To determine whether recombinant Culicoides obsoletus allergens are able to activate T cells of ponies exposed to C. obsoletus and whether these allergen‐specific responses differ between IBH‐affected and healthy ponies.

Animals

Ten IBH‐affected Shetland ponies and 10 age‐matched healthy controls taken from the same stables, to ensure similar exposure to midges.

Method

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were cultured with two different pools of recombinant C. obsoletus complex allergens to expand the allergen‐specific T cells. These PBMC cultures were subsequently co‐cultured with mature dendritic cells (DCs) loaded with the same antigens. Induction of Th1, Th2 and regulatory T (Treg) cells in these DC/PBMC co‐cultures was assessed by analysis of IFN‐γ, IL‐4, IL‐10 and FoxP3 expression levels using quantitative RT‐PCR and phenotyping by flow cytometry.

Results

Recombinant C. obsoletus allergens increased IFN‐γ mRNA expression levels, percentages of IFN‐γ expressing (Th1) cells and CD25highFoxP3+IL‐10+ Tregs compared to unstimulated DC/PBMC co‐cultures. Stimulation of IL‐4 expressing Th2 cells by the recombinant allergens was far less pronounced. The DC/PBMC co‐cultures did not reveal significant differences between healthy and IBH‐affected ponies for any of the analysed parameters, except for higher IL‐4 mRNA levels in IBH affected ponies after stimulation with one of the two allergen pools.

Conclusion and clinical importance

The recombinant C. obsoletus complex allergens can stimulate antigen‐specific Th1 and IL10 producing Treg cells and are therefore promising candidates for the immunotherapy of IBH.
CLINICAL AND MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING FEATURES OF INFLAMMATORY VERSUS NEOPLASTIC MEDIAL RETROPHARYNGEAL LYMPH NODE MASS LESIONS IN DOGS AND CATS
Authors: Johnson Philippa J. , Elders Richard , Pey Pascaline , Dennis Ruth
Published: September 2015

Medial retropharyngeal lymph node (MRLN) mass lesions are a common cause of cranial cervical masses in dogs and cats, and are predominantly due to metastatic neoplasia, primary neoplasia, or inflammatory lymphadenitis. The purpose of this retrospective cross‐sectional study was to test the hypothesis that clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics for dogs and cats with MRLN mass lesions would differ for inflammatory vs. neoplastic etiologies. Dogs and cats with MRLN mass lesions that had undergone MRI and had a confirmed cytological or histopathological diagnosis were recruited from medical record archives. Clinical findings were recorded by one observer and MRI characteristics were recorded by two other observers who were unaware of clinical findings. A total of 31 patients were sampled, with 15 in the inflammatory lymphadenitis group and 16 in the neoplasia group. Patients with inflammatory lymphadenitis were more likely to be younger and present with lethargy (P = 0.001), pyrexia (P = 0.000), and neck pain (P = 0.006). Patients with inflammatory lymphadenitis were also more likely to have a leukocystosis (P = 0.02) and segmental neutrophilia (P = 0.001). Inflammatory masses were more likely to have moderate or marked MRI perinodal contrast enhancement (P = 0.021) and local muscle contrast enhancement (P = 0.03) whereas the neoplastic masses were more likely to have greater MRI width (P = 0.002) and height (P = 0.009). In conclusion, findings indicated that some clinical and MRI characteristics differed for dogs and cats with inflammatory vs. neoplastic medial retropharyngeal lymph node masses. Although histopathological or cytological diagnosis remains necessary for confirmation, these findings may help with the ranking of differential diagnoses of future cases.
Impact of Cuscuta australis infection on the photosynthesis of the invasive host, Mikania micrantha, under drought condition
Authors: Le Quang‐Vuong , Tennakoon Kushan U. , Metali Faizah , Lim Linda B.L. , Bolin Jay F.
Published: September 2015

Cuscuta species (dodders) are widespread stem holoparasites that depend on host plants for their entire mineral and water and most carbohydrate requirements. Dodders negatively affect host photosynthesis but precise information on their impact on hosts in the presence of environmental stress factors (i.e. drought) is little known. In a pot experiment, the leaf traits, gas exchange and chlorophyll a fluorescence of the invasive climber, Mikania micrantha, parasitized by Cuscuta australis, were investigated in order to study variations of host photosynthesis in response to parasitism and drought. The results showed that the concomitant presence of C. australis infection and drought significantly impacted the leaf traits (i.e. increased leaf dry mass content), gas exchange (i.e. decreased stomatal conductance and transpiration rates and increased water‐use efficiency) and quantum yield of chlorophyll a fluorescence of M. micrantha. The presence of a single stress factor (C. australis infection or drought), however, only significantly affected the leaf traits and gas exchange of M. micrantha. These results suggested that the combined additive effects of C. australis parasitism and drought significantly suppressed the photosynthesis of M. micrantha in relation to both stomatal and non‐stomatal limitation of host photosynthesis. This study provides insights into Cuscuta–host interactions under drought conditions in the tropics.
Reading Between the Lines: The Bible in the African American Neo-Slave Narrative
Authors: Bassard Katherine Clay
Published: September 2015

With a focus on Edward P. Jones’s The Known World (2003), James McBride’s Song Yet Sung (2008), and Toni Morrison’s A Mercy (2003), the article examines how neo-slave narratives frame their discussions of the past in order to define future debates about race, culture, and academic politics. It is in looking back that these novels, ironically, carry forward the discussion of enslaved and free identities in biblical and extra-biblical contexts. Contemporary African American writers who situate their texts in the antebellum south are therefore shown to perform an important archival, hermeneutic, and cultural work.
The E3 ligase RNF43 inhibits Wnt signaling downstream of mutated β-catenin by sequestering TCF4 to the nuclear membrane
Authors: Loregger Anke , Grandl Martina , Mejías-Luque Raquel , Allgäuer Michael , Degenhart Kathrin , Haselmann Verena , Oikonomou Christina , Hatzis Pantelis , Janssen Klaus-Peter , Nitsche Ulrich , Gradl Dietmar , van den Broek Olaf , Destree Olivier , Ulm Kurt , Neumaier Michael , Kalali Behnam , Jung Andreas , Varela Ignacio , Schmid Roland M. , Rad Roland , Busch Dirk H. , Gerhard Markus
Published: September 2015

Cancer-associated mutations in RNF43 prevent its inhibitory actions on the Wnt–β-catenin pathway in the nucleus.
Science Signaling
Podcast for 8 September 2015: Turning macrophages into foam cells
Authors: Silverstein Roy L. , VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: September 2015

The Na
+
/K
+
-ATPase is required for the differentiation of macrophages into foam cells at atherosclerotic plaques.
Explaining bone overgrowth
Authors: Kelner Katrina
Published: September 2015

A disease-causing mutation changes the ligand response profile of the ACVR1 receptor, turning an antagonistic response to a ligand into an activating response.
RNA editing helps identify cellular RNAs
Authors: Riddihough Guy
Published: September 2015

The principal RNA-editing enzyme modifies cellular RNAs to prevent their erroneous identification as foreign RNA.
Synchronous endometrioid endometrial and ovarian cancer in a 34-year-old woman
Authors: Amaral Patrícia Isidro , Silva Abel , Lacerda Abílio , Barros Carlos
Published: September 2015

Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death from gynaecological malignancy in developed countries. Synchronous endometrioid endometrial and ovarian cancer in patients appears with different clinical characteristics compared to patients with isolated endometrial cancer. A 34-year-old woman with lower abdominal pain of 1 year duration presented at the emergency department. On gynaecological examination, she had a left and midline pelvic mass. A transvaginal ultrasound showed it to be a complex hypervascularised mass, with cystic and solid components on left adnexal region. Ectopic pregnancy and pelvic inflammatory disease were excluded. Serum levels of tumour marker CA125 and ROMA were increased. The MR showed a complex mass, suggestive of primary fallopian tube or ovarian tumour. The patient underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, pelvic and para-aortic lymph node dissection and subcolonic omentectomy. Histopathology revealed a synchronous endometrioid endometrial and ovarian cancer.
Hydropic leiomyoma of the uterus presenting as a giant abdominal mass
Authors: Horta Mariana , Cunha Teresa Margarida , Oliveira Rita , Magro Paula
Published: September 2015

We describe a case of a 35-year-old woman with a pedunculated uterine leiomyoma with diffuse hydropic degeneration presenting as a giant abdominal mass. The patient was admitted in the emergency department because of diffuse abdominal bloating and discomfort. Ultrasonography (US) showed a heterogeneous abdominopelvic mass. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed to further characterise and revealed a myometrial pedunculated tumour. Despite its marked T2-signal heterogeneity and volume, there were no other suspicious findings to suggest a malignant nature; therefore, fertility-sparing myomectomy was performed. Leiomyomas frequently undergo degenerative changes altering their imaging appearances. Leiomyomas with uncommon degenerative changes may be difficult to differentiate from malignant myometrial tumours, based solely on imaging. To the best of our knowledge, a diffuse hydropic degeneration imaging appearance has only been described twice in the literature. We describe the imaging appearance of this rare form of leiomyoma drawing attention to its differential diagnosis.
High risk of adverse events in hospitalised hip fracture patients of 65 years and older: results of a retrospective record review study
Authors: Merten Hanneke , Johannesma Paul C , Lubberding Sanne , Zegers Marieke , Langelaan Maaike , Jukema Gerrolt N , Heetveld Martin J , Wagner Cordula
Published: September 2015

Objectives

Hip fracture patients of 65 years and older are a complex patient group who often suffer from complications and difficult rehabilitation with disappointing results. It is unknown to what extent suboptimal hospital care contributes to these poor outcomes. This study reports on the scale, preventability, causes and prevention strategies of adverse events in patients, aged 65 years and older, admitted to the hospital with a primary diagnosis of hip fracture.

Design, setting and outcome measures

A retrospective record review study was conducted of 616 hip fracture patients (≥65 years) admitted to surgical or orthopaedic departments in four Dutch hospitals in 2007. Experienced physician reviewers determined the presence and preventability of adverse events, causes and prevention strategies using a structured review form. The main outcome measures were frequency of adverse events and preventable adverse events in hospitalised hip fracture patients of 65 years and older, and strategies to prevent them in the future.

Results

114 (19%) of the 616 patients in the study experienced one or more adverse events; 49 of these were preventable. The majority of the adverse events (70%) was related to the surgical procedure and many resulted in an intervention or additional treatment (67%). Human causes contributed to 53% of the adverse events, followed by patient-related factors (39%). Training and close monitoring of quality of care and the health professional's performance were the most often selected strategies to prevent these adverse events in the future.

Conclusions

The high percentage of preventable adverse events found in this study shows that care for older hospitalised hip fracture patients should be improved. More training and quality assurance is required to provide safer care and to reduce the number of preventable adverse events in this vulnerable patient group.