bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marked Narrowing of Right Heart Chambers Due to Compression by Giant Hepatic Hydatid Cyst
Authors: Ozcan Ozgur Ulas , Er Hacer Adanir , Turhan Sibel , Gulec Sadi , Sogut Gurbey , Kozluca Volkan , Erol Cetin
Published: July 2013

External compression of the heart may be presented as valvular heart disease. A 50‐year‐old woman with signs and symptoms of tricuspid stenosis was diagnosed with giant hepatic hydatid cyst. Symptoms were resolved after surgical excision. Echinococcosis should be in mind while evaluating patients with external cardiac compression.
Attractiveness and competitiveness of irradiated light brown apple moths
Authors: Stringer Lloyd D. , Sullivan Nicola J. , Sullivan Thomas E.S. , Mitchell Vanessa J. , Manning Lee‐Anne M. , Mas Flore , Hood‐Nowotny Rebecca Clare , Suckling David Maxwell
Published: July 2013

The sterile insect technique (SIT) potentially provides a socially acceptable approach for insect eradication of new pest incursions. The light brown apple moth, Epiphyas postvittana (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), was discovered in Berkeley (CA, USA) in 2006, leading to an incursion response that included this technology. In this study, we assessed factors affecting mating success from a bisex release of irradiated moths: effects of radiation dose on male multiple mating, male flight competition, female sex pheromone titre and attractiveness of irradiated females to males, and identification of successful mating in vineyards of either irradiated or wild males (identified by isotope analysis of spermatophores from sentinel females). There was a significant negative relationship between male radiation dose and mating frequency. In head‐to‐head flights of irradiated males against non‐irradiated males to a pheromone lure in a wind tunnel, irradiated males reached the lure first only 31% of the time. With increasing radiation dose, the production of the major sex pheromone component in females, (E)‐11‐tetradecenyl acetate, dropped, from 0.7 ± 0.1 ng per female in non‐irradiated females to 0.2 ± 0.07 ng per female when irradiated at 300 Gy. Male catch was reduced to 11% of control females in traps containing females irradiated at 300 Gy. Isotope analysis of spermatophores found in the bursa copulatrix of females indicated that mating success of irradiated males inside the live (entry‐only) traps containing virgin females was lower (13.1 ± 3.3%) than suggested by male catch (21.2 ± 3.8%) in pheromone traps, the current standard for assessing field competitiveness. Impacts of irradiation on male and female moth fitness should be taken into account to improve estimates of irradiated to wild male E. postvittana overflooding ratios needed for population suppression.
Change in carbon stable isotope ratios of the predatory bug Orius majusculus after dietary shifts
Authors: Madeira Filipe , Di Lascio Antonella , Carlino Pasquale , Costantini Maria Letizia , Pons Xavier
Published: July 2013

Orius majusculus Reuter (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) is an important component of the pest predatory complex in arable crops in Mediterranean areas. It moves between crops searching for prey, and improving knowledge on its dispersal abilities will help to develop conservation biological control strategies. Stable isotope ratios may be used as a tool for tracking insect movements, as the isotopic composition of insect tissues changes to reflect that of their diet when they undergo dietary shifts on moving between isotopically distinct crops. We carried out laboratory diet switch experiments with a stable isotope approach to infer information on dispersal of O. majusculus individuals among C3 and C4 crops to better understand isotopic field data collections. Switching the aphid food source caused a quick change in δ13C signatures, regardless of the original and final food source. Changes in the δ13C ratio of O. majusculus after diet switching fitted with an exponential model that showed similar turnover rates, and thus half‐lives, between shifting diets up to 20 days. Subsequently, whereas individuals feeding on C4 aphids did not survive, turnover rate decreased in individuals that switched from C4 to C3 aphids. However, δ13C traces from the original source remained in the predator until 25 days after switching, and this is enough time to help determine the movement of O. majusculus between crops in the field and to plan the timing of predator sampling and crop practices that may enhance predator ecological services. Orius majusculus that switched to a maize aphid diet showed different turnover rates between sexes, although this did not influence the pattern of switchover.
To Be Or Not to Be? Variable selection can change the projected fate of a threatened species under future climate
Authors: Harris Rebecca M. B. , Porfirio Luciana L. , Hugh Sonia , Lee Greg , Bindoff Nathan L. , Mackey Brendan , Beeton Nicholas J.
Published: July 2013

Species distribution models (SDMs) are commonly used to project future changes in the geographic ranges of species, to estimate extinction rates and to plan biodiversity conservation. However, these models can produce a range of results depending on how they are parameterized, and over‐reliance on a single model may lead to overconfidence in maps of future distributions. The choice of predictor variable can have a greater influence on projected future habitat than the range of climate models used. We demonstrate this in the case of the Ptunarra Brown Butterfly, a species listed as vulnerable in Tasmania, Australia. We use the Maxent model to develop future projections for this species based on three variable sets; all 35 commonly used so‐called ‘bioclimatic’ variables, a subset of these based on expert knowledge, and a set of monthly climate variables relevant to the species’ primary activity period. We used a dynamically downscaled regional climate model based on three global climate models. Depending on the choice of variable set, the species is projected either to experience very little contraction of habitat or to come close to extinction by the end of the century due to lack of suitable climate. The different conclusions could have important consequences for conservation planning and management, including the perceived viability of habitat restoration. The output of SDMs should therefore be used to define the range of possible trajectories a species may be on, and ongoing monitoring used to inform management as changes occur.
Application of the 2010 revised criteria for the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis to patients with clinically isolated syndromes
Authors: Runia T. F. , Jafari N. , Hintzen R. Q.
Published: July 2013

Background and purpose

Recently, the McDonald criteria for the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) have been revised, with the aims to diagnose earlier and to simplify the use of brain MRI. To validate the 2010 revised criteria they were applied to a cohort of patients with clinically isolated syndromes (CIS).

Methods

In all, 178 CIS patients were followed from onset. Test characteristics were calculated after 1, 3 and 5 years and compared between the 2005 and 2010 revised criteria. The time to diagnosis of the 2005 and 2010 criteria was compared using survival analysis and the log‐rank test. Clinical evidence for dissemination in space and time was the gold standard for clinically definite MS (CDMS).

Results

During follow‐up, 76 patients converted to CDMS (mean time to conversion 23.9 months). At 1 year, the specificity and accuracy of the 2005 criteria were a little higher than those of the 2010 criteria (98.0% and 98.4% vs. 86.3% and 88.5%). However, at 5 years, differences completely disappeared (specificity 85.7% and accuracy 93.3% for both criteria). MS diagnosis could be made significantly faster with the 2010 criteria (P = 0.007). Using the 2010 criteria, in 19% of patients the diagnosis could already be made at baseline.

Conclusions

By applying the 2010 revised criteria a diagnosis of MS can be made earlier, whilst prediction of disease progression is maintained. This validation brings along great advantages, for treatment possibilities as well as patient counselling.
Association between restless legs syndrome and hypertension: a preliminary population‐based study in South Tyrol, Italy
Authors: Giannini G. , Zanigni S. , Melotti R. , Gögele M. , Provini F. , Facheris M. F. , Cortelli P. , Pramstaller P. P.
Published: July 2013

Background and purpose

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a sleep‐related movement disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs accompanied by paresthesia and/or dysesthesia that begins or worsens in the evening and night and that is partially or totally relieved by movement. Many studies have investigated the association between RLS and cardiovascular risk factors, particularly hypertension, leading to conflicting results. The aim of this study was to assess the association between RLS and hypertension considering also other cardiovascular risk factors that could act as confounders.

Methods

In all, 1709 participants of an on‐going adult population‐based study performed in South Tyrol, northern Italy, were enrolled. RLS was assessed through face‐to‐face interviews according to current International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group diagnostic criteria. The presence of hypertension was self‐reported and determined by questionnaires administered by trained study nurses.

Results

The association between RLS and hypertension was not significant after adjustment for age, sex, diabetes mellitus, history of myocardial infarction, raised blood lipids and body mass index (odds ratio 1.24, 95% CI 0.85–1.80, P = 0.271).

Conclusion

Despite the small sample size of this study, RLS and hypertension were not associated in our adult population after adjustment for possible confounding factors. The presence of other cardiovascular risk factors could play a role as a confounder of this association.
The World is a Natural Laboratory, and Social Media is the New Petri Dish
Authors: Rault Jean‐Loup , Elmore Monica R. P. , Biehl Dara J. , Russell Mark A. , Garner Joseph P.
Published: July 2013

Many high‐priority and high‐interest species are challenging to study due to the difficulty in accessing animals and/or obtaining sufficient sample sizes. The recent explosion in technology, particularly social media and live webcams available on the Internet, provides new opportunities for behavioral scientists to collect data not just on our own species, as well as new resources for teaching and outreach. We discuss here the possibility of exploiting online media as a new source of behavioral data, which we termed ‘video mining’. This article proposes epidemiological and ethological field techniques to gather and screen online media as a data source on diverse taxa. This novel method provides access to a rich source of untapped knowledge, particularly to study the behavior of understudied species or sporadic behaviors, but also for teaching or monitoring animals in challenging settings.
BcsTx3 is a founder of a novel sea anemone toxin family of potassium channel blocker
Authors: Orts Diego J. B. , Moran Yehu , Cologna Camila T. , Peigneur Steve , Madio Bruno , Praher Daniela , Quinton Loic , De Pauw Edwin , Bicudo José E. P. W. , Tytgat Jan , de Freitas José C.
Published: July 2013

Sea anemone venoms have become a rich source of peptide toxins which are invaluable tools for studying the structure and functions of ion channels. In this work, BcsTx3, a toxin found in the venom of a Bunodosoma caissarum (population captured at the Saint Peter and Saint Paul Archipelago, Brazil) was purified and biochemically and pharmacologically characterized. The pharmacological effects were studied on 12 different subtypes of voltage‐gated potassium channels (KV1.1–KV1.6; KV2.1; KV3.1; KV4.2; KV4.3; hERG and Shaker IR) and three cloned voltage‐gated sodium channel isoforms (NaV1.2, NaV1.4 and BgNaV1.1) expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes. BcsTx3 shows a high affinity for Drosophila Shaker IR channels over rKv1.2, hKv1.3 and rKv1.6, and is not active on NaV channels. Biochemical characterization reveals that BcsTx3 is a 50 amino acid peptide crosslinked by four disulfide bridges, and sequence comparison allowed BcsTx3 to be classified as a novel type of sea anemone toxin acting on KV channels. Moreover, putative toxins homologous to BcsTx3 from two additional actiniarian species suggest an ancient origin of this newly discovered toxin family.
CFTR: a hub for kinases and crosstalk of cAMP and Ca2+
Authors: Kunzelmann Karl , Mehta Anil
Published: July 2013

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by mutations in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). The resulting disease is pleiotropic consistent with the idea that CFTR acts as a node within a network of signalling proteins. CFTR is not only a regulator of multiple transport proteins and controlled by numerous kinases but also participates in many signalling pathways that are disrupted after expression of its commonest mutant (F508del‐CFTR). It operates in membrane compartments creating a scaffold for cytoskeletal elements, surface receptors, kinases and phosphodiesterases. CFTR is exposed to membrane‐local second messengers such that a CFTR‐interacting, low cellular energy sensor kinase (AMP‐ and ADP‐activated kinase, AMPK) signals through a high energy phosphohistidine protein kinase (nucleoside diphosphate kinase, NDPK). CFTR also translocates a Ca2+‐dependent adenylate cyclase to its proximity so that a rigid separation between cAMP‐dependent and Ca2+‐dependent regulation of Cl− transport becomes obsolete. In the presence of wild‐type CFTR, parallel activation of CFTR and outwardly rectifying anoctamin 6 Cl− channels is observed, while the Ca2+‐activated anoctamin 1 Cl− channel is inhibited. In contrast, in CF cells, CFTR is missing/mislocalized and the outwardly rectifying chloride channel is attenuated while Ca2+‐dependent Cl− secretion (anoctamin 1) appears upregulated. Additionally, we consider the idea that F508del‐CFTR when trapped in the endoplasmic reticulum augments IP3‐mediated Ca2+ release by providing a shunt pathway for Cl−. CFTR and the IP3 receptor share the characteristic that they both assemble their partner proteins to increase the plasticity of their hub responses. In CF, the CFTR hub fails to form at the plasma membrane, with widespread detrimental consequences for cell signalling.
Bergmann's rule is maintained during a rapid range expansion in a damselfly
Authors: Hassall Christopher , Keat Simon , Thompson David J. , Watts Phillip C.
Published: July 2013

Climate‐induced range shifts result in the movement of a sample of genotypes from source populations to new regions. The phenotypic consequences of those shifts depend upon the sample characteristics of the dispersive genotypes, which may act to either constrain or promote phenotypic divergence, and the degree to which plasticity influences the genotype–environment interaction. We sampled populations of the damselfly Erythromma viridulum from northern Europe to quantify the phenotypic (latitude–body size relationship based on seven morphological traits) and genetic (variation at microsatellite loci) patterns that occur during a range expansion itself. We find a weak spatial genetic structure that is indicative of high gene flow during a rapid range expansion. Despite the potentially homogenizing effect of high gene flow, however, there is extensive phenotypic variation among samples along the invasion route that manifests as a strong, positive correlation between latitude and body size consistent with Bergmann's rule. This positive correlation cannot be explained by variation in the length of larval development (voltinism). While the adaptive significance of latitudinal variation in body size remains obscure, geographical patterns in body size in odonates are apparently underpinned by phenotypic plasticity and this permits a response to one or more environmental correlates of latitude during a range expansion.
A novel, automated technology for multiplex biomarker imaging and application to breast cancer
Authors: Clarke Gina M , Zubovits Judit T , Shaikh Kashan A , Wang Dan , Dinn Sean R , Corwin Alex D , Santamaria‐Pang Alberto , Li Qing , Nofech‐Mozes Sharon , Liu Kela , Pang Zhengyu , Filkins Robert J , Yaffe Martin J
Published: July 2013

Aims

Multiplexed immunofluorescence is a powerful tool for validating multigene assays and understanding the complex interplay of proteins implicated in breast cancer within a morphological context. We describe a novel technology for imaging an extended panel of biomarkers on a single, formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded breast sample and evaluating biomarker interaction at a single‐cell level, and demonstrate proof‐of‐concept on a small set of breast tumours, including those which co‐express hormone receptors with Her2/neu and Ki‐67.

Methods and results

Using a microfluidic flow cell, reagent exchange was automated and consisted of serial rounds of staining with dye‐conjugated antibodies, imaging and chemical deactivation. A two‐step antigen retrieval process was developed to satisfy all epitopes simultaneously, and key parameters were optimized. The imaging sequence was applied to seven breast tumours, and compared with conventional immunohistochemistry. Single‐cell correlation analysis was performed with automated image processing.

Conclusions

We have described a novel platform for evaluating biomarker co‐localization. Expression in multiplexed images is consistent with conventional immunohistochemistry. Automation reduces inconsistencies in staining and positional shifts, while the fluorescent dye cycling approach dramatically expands the number of biomarkers which can be visualized and quantified on a single tissue section.
Urethra actively opens from the very beginning of micturition: A new concept of urethral function
Authors: Watanabe Hiroki , Takahashi Satoru , Ukimura Osamu
Published: July 2013

Transvaginal or transrectal ultrasound was carried out in an adult female and a male volunteer during micturition. Although the male urethra was enclosed by the prostate, its construction and the function were almost identical to the female urethra. The anterior fibromuscular stroma was not a part of the prostate, but was a part of the urethral muscle. The urethra was surrounded by a thick single muscle unit, developed only on the anterior and lateral sides of the urethra. When the participant wished to urinate, the initial motion was not a bladder contraction, but an active opening of the urethral lumen by the muscle unit. The same unit closed the urethra when continence was kept. In conclusion, the main function of the urethra is thought to be not a closure, but an opening to control the entire micturition process, rather than the bladder being primarily responsible for the control of micturition.
Transcriptome analysis of female reproductive tissues of Anastrepha obliqua and molecular evolution of eggshell proteins in the fraterculus group
Authors: Gonçalves V. R. , Sobrinho I. S. , Malagó W. , Henrique‐Silva F. , de Brito R. A.
Published: July 2013

The investigation of cDNA libraries has been an important tool for the identification of new genes in nonmodel species such as the fruit flies from the Anastrepha fraterculus group. In the present study, we constructed a cDNA library from the female reproductive tissues of Anastrepha obliqua aiming to identify genes with high evolutionary rates. We sequenced 2304 clones obtained from the female reproductive tissues of A. obliqua flies. The expressed sequence tags generated a total of 816 unigenes which were classified into different protein classes. Among these, we identified chorionic and vitelline protein genes as being among the most highly expressed. We used unigene sequences to amplify a set of chorionic and vitelline genes, involved in the formation of the eggshell, in species of the fraterculus group. Four chorionic genes and two vitelline genes showed evidence of positive selection along the Anastrepha and/or Tephritidae lineage. The signal of selection detected for Vm26Aa was possibly generated by a gene duplication event. The rapid evolutionary rates indicate that these genes could serve as important markers in population and evolutionary studies, not only for species of this group, but possibly also for other Diptera.
Assessment of point‐of‐care measurement of international normalised ratio using the CoaguChek XS Plus system in the setting of acute ischaemic stroke
Authors: Nusa D. , Harvey I. , Almansouri A. Y. , Wright S. , Neeman T. , Ahmad O , Hughes A. R. , Lueck C. J.
Published: July 2013

Background and Aims

Thrombolysis with alteplase (recombinant tissue plasminogen activator) is accepted hyperacute therapy for acute ischaemic stroke. Clotting must be normal before this can be administered safely. Laboratory testing of international normalised ratio (INR) takes 30–60 min, which can significantly delay administration of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator. Previous studies have suggested that point‐of‐care testing is useful in patients presenting with stroke and improves door‐to‐needle time. We performed a prospective study of point‐of‐care testing in patients presenting with acute ischaemic stroke.

Methods

Fifty patients were entered into the study to compare point‐of‐care testing using the CoaguChek XS system with laboratory testing of INR.

Results

Point‐of‐care testing correlated well with laboratory levels (R = 0.93, P < 0.0001). The standard deviation of difference between the two was 0.115. Overall, point‐of‐care testing tended to underestimate INR slightly, meaning that an INR value of 1.1 or less was required to be 95% certain that the laboratory value was 1.3 or below. Simultaneous testing using blood from a syringe was more consistent with laboratory results than testing capillary blood through finger prick.

Conclusion

Point‐of‐care INR testing correlates well with laboratory values. The results in this study mostly relate to values in the normal range. We suggest that it can be used to try to shorten door‐to‐needle time.
Population attributable risks for modifiable lifestyle factors and breast cancer in New Zealand women
Authors: Hayes J. , Richardson A. , Frampton C.
Published: July 2013

Background

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed invasive cancer in New Zealand women and modifiable lifestyle risk factors may contribute to this.

Aim

To estimate population attributable risks for modifiable lifestyle factors and breast cancer in New Zealand.

Methods

Estimates of the magnitude of the impact of modifiable lifestyle risk factors for breast cancer (relative risks and odds ratios obtained from published epidemiological studies) and the prevalence of exposure in New Zealand were used to calculate the population attributable risk percent (PAR%) for each risk factor. The PAR% show the relative importance of these considered risk factors and give an indication of the potential impact of reducing the prevalence of these lifestyle risk factors on the incidence of breast cancer in New Zealand.

Results

Six modifiable lifestyle factors were identified for breast cancer. These were obesity, lack of physical activity, high alcohol intake, oral contraceptive use, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and delayed first birth. The PAR% for these risk factors ranged from 1% for delayed first birth to 10% for obesity (16% for Maori women and 17% for Pacific women).

Conclusions

The most important primary preventive strategies to reduce the risk of breast cancer in New Zealand are lifestyle changes to reduce obesity, promoting regular physical activity (which may in turn reduce the prevalence of obesity), reducing HRT use and avoiding high alcohol intake. Strategies that encourage regular physical activity and reduce obesity could also have other benefits, such as reduced risks of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
A linear programming approach for adaptive synchronization of traffic signals
Authors: Coll Pablo , Factorovich Pablo , Loiseau Irene , Gómez Roberto
Published: July 2013

As traffic congestion during rush hours is a growing problem for most cities, there is an increasing need for more effective management of traffic signal control and traffic assignment systems. We present here a new adaptive system based on a linear programming model for the signal‐control problem. The objective is to minimize the total length of the queues of vehicles waiting at each intersection. The model is based on traffic information provided by real‐time sensors installed at each intersection. In order to compare the performance of our program with the current scheduling designed by the transit office of Buenos Aires city, we used a traffic simulation system and real traffic flow data of two pilot areas of the city. Preliminary results are very promising.
Echocardiographic assessment of cardiac structure and function in great apes: a practical guide
Authors: Shave R. , Oxborough D. , Somauroo J. , Feltrer Y. , Strike T. , Routh A. , Chapman S. , Redrobe S. , Thompson L. , Unwin S. , Sayers G. , Murphy H. , Rapoport G. , Stöhr E.
Published: July 2013

Cardiac disease has been implicated as a leading cause of death in captive great apes. Trans‐thoracic echocardiography provides clinically relevant information that may help differentiate between the myriad of different heart diseases and disorders, guide treatment and aid the management of great apes with underlying cardiac pathology. The purpose of this paper is to provide an outline of the procedures and methodologies required to conduct a thorough trans‐thoracic echocardiogram of great apes under general anaesthesia. Basic logistical considerations are discussed before a detailed description of the procedures required for the assessment of overall cardiac structure and function. Using a thorough systematic approach, it is our belief that veterinary professionals may be better able to diagnose, treat and manage captive great apes with, or at risk of developing heart disease.
Controlled Mesoporosity in SiOC via Chemically Bonded Polymeric “Spacers”
Authors: Blum Yigal , Sorarù Gian Domenico , Ramaswamy Aravind Parakkulam , Hui David , Carturan Sara Maria
Published: July 2013

Silicon oxycarbides with controlled porosity in the mesopore range have been obtained through high‐temperature pyrolysis of newly developed reactive siloxane formulations. The starting gels have been synthesized via Pt catalyzed hydrosilylation reaction between polyhydromethylsiloxane (PHMS) and vinyl‐terminated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) of different molecular weights in the presence of tetravinyltetramethylcyclotetrasiloxane as a crosslinking enhancer. In our approach, the PDMS serves the double purpose of size‐controlling templating agent as well as solvent at the early stages of the synthesis. During the curing step, the vinyl‐terminated PDMS is chemically bonded to the preceramic network through the extremely efficient hydrosilylation reaction and “solidify.” Accordingly, its removal during pyrolysis occurs through decomposition of a solid phase with retention of the formed porosity. The structural and morphological evolution of the preceramic gels containing the molecular spacers have been investigated as a function of the thermal treatment temperature by N2 physisorption measurements, thermogravimetry, and SEM analyses. The results show that the pore size distribution of the resulting SiOCs depends on the molecular weight of the PDMS and is directly related to the molecular volume assumimg that the PDMS chains are entangled into spheroidal shapes. The total pore volume is related to the initial amount of templating PDMS assuming its complete decomposition during pyrolysis.
Low‐Temperature Sintering and Electric Properties of Pb0.99(Zr0.95Ti0.05)0.98Nb0.02O3 Ferroelectric Ceramics with CuO Additive
Authors: Wang Junxia , Wang Genshui , Nie Hengchang , Chen Xuefeng , Cao Fei , Dong Xianlin , Gu Yan , He Hongliang
Published: July 2013

The low‐temperature sintering and electric properties of Pb0.99(Zr0.95Ti0.05)0.98Nb0.02O3 (PZTN 95/5) ferroelectric ceramics with CuO addition was investigated. The CuO addition significantly promoted the densification and reduced the sintering temperature of PZTN 95/5 ceramics by more than 200°C. The 0.2 wt% CuO‐added sample sintered at 1150°C exhibited the optimum relative density of 96.7% and excellent electric properties with values of Pr = 37.80 μC/cm2, TC = 223°C, εr = 329, and tan δ = 0.016, which were superior to that of PZTN 95/5 ceramics sintered at 1350°C.
Temperature‐Dependent Phase Transitions in the Lead‐Free Piezoceramics (1 – x – y)(Bi1/2Na1/2)TiO3–xBaTiO3–y(K0.5Na0.5)NbO3 Observed by in situ Transmission Electron Microscopy and Dielectric Measurements
Authors: Kling Jens , Jo Wook , Dittmer Robert , Schaab Silke , Kleebe Hans‐Joachim
Published: July 2013

Lead‐free piezoelectric (1 – x – y)(Bi1/2Na1/2)TiO3–xBaTiO3–y(K0.5Na0.5)NbO3 (BNT–BT–KNN) ceramics were examined in situ under increasing temperature in the transmission electron microscope. Changing superstructure reflections indicate a transition from rhombohedral to tetragonal to cubic phase with broad coexistence regions. The additional evolution of the microstructure in combination with dielectric measurements leads to a model of two relaxor‐type phase evolutions with temperature.
Sleep restriction worsens mood and emotion regulation in adolescents
Authors: Baum Katherine T. , Desai Anjali , Field Julie , Miller Lauren E. , Rausch Joseph , Beebe Dean W.
Published: July 2013

Background

The relationship between inadequate sleep and mood has been well‐established in adults and is supported primarily by correlational data in younger populations. Given that adolescents often experience shortened sleep on school nights, we sought to better understand the effect of experimentally induced chronic sleep restriction on adolescents’ mood and mood regulation.

Methods

Fifty healthy adolescents, ages 14–17, completed a 3‐week sleep manipulation protocol involving a baseline week, followed by a sleep restriction (SR) condition (6.5 hr in bed per night for five nights) and healthy sleep duration (HS) condition (10 hr in bed per night for five nights). The study used a randomized, counterbalanced, crossover experimental design. Participants’ sleep was monitored at home via self‐report and actigraphy. At the end of each condition, participants and their parents completed questionnaires of mood and mood regulation. To assess for expectancy effects, we also analyzed parent and teen ratings of hyperactivity/impulsivity, which prior research suggests is not sensitive to SR in adolescents. Wilcoxon Signed Rank tests compared questionnaire outcomes across the two conditions.

Results

Participants averaged 2.5 more hours of sleep per night during HS relative to SR. Compared with HS, adolescents rated themselves as significantly more tense/anxious, angry/hostile, confused, and fatigued, and as less vigorous (p = .001–.01) during SR. Parents and adolescents also reported greater oppositionality/irritability and poorer emotional regulation during SR compared with HS (p < .05). There were no cross‐condition differences in depression or hyperactivity/impulsivity (p > .05).

Conclusions

Findings complement prior correlational study results to show that after only a few days of shortened sleep, at a level of severity that is experienced regularly by millions of adolescents on school nights, adolescents have worsened mood and decreased ability to regulate negative emotions.
Molecular identification of the hybrid between the catfish species Pseudoplatystoma corruscans and Pseudoplatystoma reticulatum using a set of eight microsatellite markers
Authors: Cardoso de Carvalho D. , Seerig A. S. , Dos Santos Alves Figueiredo Brasil B. , Vieira Crepaldi D. , Aparecida Andrade de Oliveria D.
Published: July 2013

This study distinguished hybrids of surubim or pintado Pseudoplatystoma corruscans and cachara Pseudoplatystoma reticulatum from pure strains using a set of eight microsatellite markers and population assignment methods. Applications of this molecular tool range from certification of hybrid‐free breeders in restocking conservation programmes to the identification of fish products lacking traditional morphological characteristics.
The Therapeutic Pyramid: A Common Factors Synthesis of Techniques, Alliance, and Way of Being
Authors: Fife Stephen T. , Whiting Jason B. , Bradford Kay , Davis Sean
Published: July 2013

Common factors in therapy such as the therapeutic alliance and client motivation have been found to account for more change than therapy models. But common factors have been critiqued as only lists of variables that provide little practical guidance. Some researchers have demonstrated that certain common elements (e.g., the therapeutic alliance) account for more variance than others (e.g., techniques), suggesting that some factors should be emphasized over others. Such findings suggest the need for alternatives to model‐based therapy, with one alternative being meta‐models, or “models of models,” that focus on how therapeutic factors interact with each other to produce change. The purpose of this article is to propose a meta‐model describing the relationship between two specific common factors—the therapeutic alliance and interventions. We also propose a new factor—a therapist's way of being—that we believe is foundational to effective therapy. The model is proposed in pyramid format, with techniques on top, the therapeutic alliance in the middle, and therapist way of being as the foundation. The hierarchical relationships between these three concepts are discussed, along with implications for training, research, and therapy.
First Trimester Dietary Intake, Biochemical Measures, and Subsequent Gestational Hypertension Among Nulliparous Women
Authors: Tande Desiree L. , Ralph Jody L. , Johnson LuAnn K. , Scheett Angela J. , Hoverson Bonita S. , Anderson Cindy M.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationships between first‐trimester dietary factors and biochemical measures and subsequent risk of gestational hypertension.

Methods

This pilot study used a prospective design utilizing a convenience sample of nulliparous women enrolled at their first prenatal visit. A total of 57 women completed the study. Participants were divided into 2 groups for data analysis: normotensive pregnancy and gestational hypertension.

Results

Nearly one‐quarter of study participants (22.8%) developed gestational hypertension, of whom 84.6% had significant proteinuria meeting the criteria for preeclampsia. There were no significant differences in micronutrient or macronutrient dietary intakes between groups. Serum iron and zinc levels were lower for the gestational hypertension group compared with the normotensive pregnancy group (P ≤ .01). Low serum zinc levels were related to a risk of developing gestational hypertension (adjusted odds ratio, 0.930; 95% confidence interval, 0.872‐0.992).

Discussion

Ensuring adequate intake of zinc and monitoring serum zinc levels in nulliparous pregnant women may help to prevent or contribute to early detection of gestational hypertension.
Dispositional Attachment Orientations, Contextual Variations in Attachment Security, and Compassion Fatigue Among Volunteers Working With Traumatized Individuals
Authors: Pardess Eleanor , Mikulincer Mario , Dekel Rachel , Shaver Phillip R.
Published: July 2013

In the present article, we report a series of studies examining the links between attachment orientations and compassion fatigue among volunteers working with traumatized individuals. Participants were volunteers in several trauma‐related organizations, ranging in age from 18 to 69 years. In Study 1 (N = 148), we examined associations between self‐reports of attachment insecurities and compassion fatigue. In Study 2 (N = 54), we used a diary design to assess attachment‐related differences in emotional reactions to actual helping encounters over a 2‐month period. In Study 3 (N = 108), we examined the effects of the experimental enhancement of attachment security (security priming) on reactions to a hypothetical helping encounter. As expected, attachment insecurities, either anxiety or avoidance, were associated with heightened compassion fatigue. Moreover, security priming reduced compassion fatigue in response to a hypothetical helping encounter. These findings underscore the relevance of attachment theory for understanding and preventing compassion fatigue.
Development of SYBR Green I‐Based One‐Step Real Time RT‐PCR Assay for Quantifying Southern rice black‐streaked dwarf virus in Rice
Authors: Zhou Tong , Du Linlin , Lan Ying , Sun Feng , Fan Yongjian , Zhou Yijun
Published: July 2013

Southern rice black‐streaked dwarf virus (SRBSDV) causes southern rice black‐streaked dwarf and maize rough dwarf diseases, which lead to severe yield losses of crops in Southeast Asia. We report here a SYBR Green I‐based One‐Step Real Time RT‐PCR assay for quantifying SRBSDV in rice rapidly and accurately. Primers used for assay were designed from the conserved sequence in S9 RNA among SRBSDV isolates. The RNA standards targeting the S9 region were obtained by transcription in vitro for generation of a standard curve. The assay developed in this study was found to be 100 times more sensitive than the conventional RT‐PCR for SRBSDV detection. The primers were very specific for SRBSDV. This study clearly demonstrated the potential usefulness of developed assay for detection and quantitation of SRBSDV in rice samples.
Identification and Genetic Division of Fusarium graminearum and Fusarium asiaticum by Species‐Specific SCAR Markers
Authors: Zhang Xu , Ma Hong‐xiang , Zhou Yong‐jin , Xing Jin‐cheng , Chen Jian‐hua , Yu Gui‐hong , Sun Xiao‐bo , Wang Lei
Published: July 2013

Fusarium head blight (FHB), also called scab, is a devastating and insidious disease of cereals including wheat (Triticum spp.) and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) worldwide. Apart from direct yield losses, the most serious concern about FHB is the contamination of the crop with mycotoxins, which pose a health risk to human and livestock. Recent research reported that phylogenetic species F. asiaticum (Fa) and F. graminearum (Fg) were the major causal agents of FHB from infected wheat heads in China. To investigate the population structure of Fusarium species in China by species‐specific as well as the chemotype‐specific markers, sequence‐related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) markers were screened on representative isolates of F. asiaticum‐NIV, F. asiaticum‐ 3ADON and F. graminearum‐15ADON to find amplification products characteristic of either species or chemotypes. Selected amplified fragments were cloned and sequenced so that sequence‐characterized amplified region (SCAR) primer pairs could be developed which permit specific detection of Fusarium species using conventional PCR. Primer pairs SCAR‐Fa1 and SCAR‐Fg1 were confirmed to be able to amplify specific products only in F. asiaticum and F. graminearum isolates, respectively. These species‐specific primers were applied to determine genetic division of F. asiaticum and F. graminearum isolates collected in Yangtze–Huaihe valley. The results indicated that F. asiaticum was the predominant species causing FHB in this wheat production area. It is the first report that SRAP markers were adapted for species characterization in Fusarium isolates.
Process monitoring and visualization solutions for hot-melt extrusion: a review
Authors: Saerens Lien , Vervaet Chris , Remon Jean Paul , De Beer Thomas
Published: July 2013

Objectives

Hot-melt extrusion (HME) is applied as a continuous pharmaceutical manufacturing process for the production of a variety of dosage forms and formulations. To ensure the continuity of this process, the quality of the extrudates must be assessed continuously during manufacturing. The objective of this review is to provide an overview and evaluation of the available process analytical techniques which can be applied in hot-melt extrusion.

Key Findings

Pharmaceutical extruders are equipped with traditional (univariate) process monitoring tools, observing barrel and die temperatures, throughput, screw speed, torque, drive amperage, melt pressure and melt temperature. The relevance of several spectroscopic process analytical techniques for monitoring and control of pharmaceutical HME has been explored recently. Nevertheless, many other sensors visualizing HME and measuring diverse critical product and process parameters with potential use in pharmaceutical extrusion are available, and were thoroughly studied in polymer extrusion. The implementation of process analytical tools in HME serves two purposes: (1) improving process understanding by monitoring and visualizing the material behaviour and (2) monitoring and analysing critical product and process parameters for process control, allowing to maintain a desired process state and guaranteeing the quality of the end product.

This review is the first to provide an evaluation of the process analytical tools applied for pharmaceutical HME monitoring and control, and discusses techniques that have been used in polymer extrusion having potential for monitoring and control of pharmaceutical HME.
In-vitro evaluation of chronic alcohol effects on expression of drug-metabolizing and drug-transporting proteins
Authors: Theile Dirk , Schmidt Tobias T , Haefeli Walter E , Weiss Johanna
Published: July 2013

Objectives

In alcoholics without alcoholic liver disease, boosted drug elimination has been reported. However, mechanistic explanations for this phenomenon remain uncertain. In particular, data on the potential role of drug transporters are sparse.

Methods

Using a well-established in-vitro model for induction of human drug-metabolizing and drug-transporting proteins, we evaluated the potency of ethanol and the major fermentation side-product isopentanol to alter expression and function of these proteins by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting and flow cytometry. P-glycoprotein (Pgp)-inhibiting properties of ethanol and isopentanol were investigated via calcein extrusion assay.

Key findings

Ethanol and isopentanol significantly changed expression levels of drug-metabolizing and drug-transporting proteins that normalized within 2 weeks upon withdrawal. Cytochrome P-450 2C19 and Pgp were most strongly induced. Ethanol-induced Pgp at the messenger RNA (mRNA) (twofold to eightfold) and protein level (twofold), but not at the functional level. Both compounds did not inhibit Pgp.

Conclusions

Ethanol is demonstrated to increase mRNA and protein expression of human drug transporters such as Pgp in vitro. Withdrawal of ethanol exposure causes return to non-induced conditions within weeks. Functional consequences of increased Pgp expression in alcoholics need to be evaluated by clinical trials applying selective Pgp substrates such as digoxin.
Metabolic Syndrome in Men with Low Testosterone Levels: Relationship with Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Comorbidities and with Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: García-Cruz Eduardo , Leibar-Tamayo Asier , Romero Javier , Piqueras Marta , Luque Pilar , Cardeñosa Oscar , Alcaraz Antonio
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Testosterone deficiency and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are strongly associated. Patients consulting for sexual dysfunction may have testosterone deficiency, providing a valuable opportunity to assess MetS. The identification of variables predicting MetS is of great importance.

Aims

To identify cardiovascular comorbidities and risk factors, including erectile dysfunction (ED), associated with MetS in men aged ≥45 with total testosterone (TT) < 8 nmol/L (or <12 nmol/L when calculated free testosterone was <250 pmol/L) and to gain further insight into the relationship between both conditions.

Methods

Data were collected from a multicenter, cross-sectional, observational study conducted in Spain among men visiting men's health-care offices with a confirmed diagnosis of testosterone deficiency. Subjects with data for MetS assessment were included in this analysis. Other data available were anthropometrics, toxic habits, cardiovascular comorbidities, ED diagnosis, and TT values.

Main Outcome Measures

The MetS harmonized definition was used. Waist circumference threshold was 94 cm. ED was diagnosed and classified using the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to calculate odds ratios (ORs) for MetS.

Results

Mean age was 61.2 ± 8.1 years. Prevalences of ED and MetS were 97.6% and 69%, respectively, both increasing with age. Bivariate analysis showed that moderate or severe ED, obesity, and peripheral vascular disease (PVD) were the variables associated with the greatest odds of MetS (OR = 2.672 and 2.514, respectively), followed by alcohol intake (OR = 1.911). Tobacco use, ag,e and testosterone deficiency severity had a minimal effect that disappeared on multivariate analysis. Elevated triglycerides and HDL-cholesterol were MetS risk factors associated with a lower TT level.

Conclusion

The high prevalence of MetS among men with testosterone deficiency highlights the opportunity to assess cardiovascular health in patients consulting for sexual dysfunction. Moderate to severe ED, obesity, PVD, and alcohol intake significantly increase the likelihood of MetS.
Reconstructive Surgery for Female Genital Mutilation Starts Sexual Functioning in Sudanese Woman: A Case Report
Authors: Fazari Atif B.E. , Berg Rigmor C. , Mohammed Wafaa A. , Gailii Enas B. , Elmusharaf Khalifa
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Female genital mutilation (FGM) involves the partial or complete removal of the external female genitalia and/or other injury to the female genital organs whether for cultural or other nontherapeutic reasons.

Aims

The study aims to describe the method of and findings from reconstructive surgery for FGM victims.

Methods

We present a case of a 24-year-old Sudanese female, who had undergone ritual FGM type III as a young girl. She had suffered from a large, vulval mass for the last 6 years and came to the clinic because of apareunia. We performed mass excision and reconstructive surgery of the mutilated genital tissue.

Results

The giant mass was successfully removed. Remaining genital tissues were approximated and sutured, with hemostasis assured for the reconstructed organs on each side.

Conclusion

Reconstructive surgery for women who suffer sexual consequences from FGM is feasible, with a high degree of client acceptance and satisfaction. It restores some of women's natural genital anatomy, and offers the potential for improved female sexuality.
Under pressure: preventing pressure ulcers in critically ill infants
Authors: Schindler Christine A. , Mikhailov Theresa A. , Cashin Susan E. , Malin Shelly , Christensen Melissa , Winters Jill M.
Published: July 2013

Purpose

To determine whether a pressure ulcer prevention bundle was associated with a significant reduction in pressure ulcer development in infants in the pediatric intensive care unit.

Design and Methods

Quasi‐experimental design involving 399 infants 0 to 3 months of age at a large tertiary care medical center.

Results

The implementation of the care bundle was associated with a significant drop in pressure ulcer incidence from 18.8 to 6.8%.

Practice Implications

Pressure ulcers can be prevented in the most vulnerable patients with the consistent implementation of evidence‐based interventions and system supports to assist nurses with the change in practice.
Vertically Differentiated Mixed Oligopoly with Quality‐dependent Fixed Costs
Authors: Lutz Stefan , Pezzino Mario
Published: July 2013

The paper studies duopolistic competition when firms face fixed quality‐dependent costs of production and one of the two firms targets (at least in the long run) welfare maximization. We show that mixed oligopoly is in general socially desirable compared with a private duopoly regardless of the type of competition in the short run and the equilibrium quality ranking. In addition, the nationalization of one of the firms seems to be a more efficient regulatory instrument than the adoption of minimum quality standard or subsidization of the high‐quality provider.