bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of twin-bearing ewe body condition score and late pregnancy nutrition on lamb performance
Authors: Kenyon P. R. , Hickson R. E. , Hutton P. G. , Morris S. T. , Stafford K. J. , West D. M.
Published: July 2013

This study aimed to investigate the effects of ewe body condition score and nutrition on twin-bearing ewes and their offspring. At maximum Day 112 of pregnancy (range 96–112 days), 185 twin-bearing ewes were allocated to either a ‘Medium’ or ‘ad libitum’ (Adlib) feeding treatment for the following 25 days (P112–P136). Each feeding treatment included ewes of body condition score: 2.0 (CS2.0, Medium n = 32, Adlib n = 28), CS2.5 (Medium n = 31, Adlib n = 33) or CS3.0 (Medium n = 30, Adlib n = 31). After P136 ewes were offered Adlib feeding conditions. Medium treatment ewes were lighter (P < 0.05) than Adlib ewes at P136 and P142 and displayed lower (P < 0.05) body condition score at P136 and back-fat depths at P142. CS2.0 ewes had lower (P < 0.05) liveweights and body condition score at P112, P136 and P142 than CS2.5 ewes, which in turn had lower (P < 0.05) liveweight and body condition scores than CS3.0 ewes. Ewe feeding treatment had no effect (P > 0.05) on lamb liveweight or apparent colostrum intake. Ewe body condition score had no effect (P > 0.05) on lamb birthweight or apparent colostrum intake. Lambs born to CS2.0 ewes had greater (P < 0.05) survival than lambs born to CS2.5 ewes. At the end of the study lambs born to CS2.0 ewes were lighter (P < 0.05) than those born to CS2.5 and CS3.0 ewes although, there was (P > 0.05) no effect of condition score on total litter liveweight. In conclusion, these results suggest twin-bearing ewes of body condition 2.0–3.0 can be offered restricted feeding levels to at least Day 136 of pregnancy with few implications for their lambs.
Evaluating Salmon Spawning Habitat Capacity Using Redd Survey Data
Authors: Groves Phillip A. , Chandler James A. , Alcorn Brad , Richter Tracy J. , Connor William P. , Garcia Aaron P. , Bradbury Steven M.
Published: July 2013

Management and recovery goals for fish populations often rely on estimating the number of fish that can be supported by finite habitats. In the absence of direct measures of carrying capacity, management decisions are commonly informed by results of habitat models. However, the shortcomings and spatially explicit nature of most habitat models result in making assumptions, often preclude inclusion of important variables, and are rarely validated at the reach level. We analyze long-term, redd-count data for a population of Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha to evaluate spawning habitat capacity of a major river. Adult escapement generally increased during the years 1994–2012; consequently site use and total redd counts also increased. Together, the annual use of spawning sites and the redd counts (as functions of adult escapement) provided evidence for density-dependent changes in the availability and capacity of spawning sites. Redd counts exceeded one recovery criterion specific to one spawning aggregate of the population during 11 years of our survey data, supporting the conclusion that adequate spawning habitat is available to attain a management goal set for this aggregate.

Received May 31, 2012; accepted March 27, 2013
CellMix: a comprehensive toolbox for gene expression deconvolution
Authors: Gaujoux Renaud , Seoighe Cathal
Published: July 2013

Summary: Gene expression data are typically generated from heterogeneous biological samples that are composed of multiple cell or tissue types, in varying proportions, each contributing to global gene expression. This heterogeneity is a major confounder in standard analysis such as differential expression analysis, where differences in the relative proportions of the constituent cells may prevent or bias the detection of cell-specific differences. Computational deconvolution of global gene expression is an appealing alternative to costly physical sample separation techniques and enables a more detailed analysis of the underlying biological processes at the cell-type level. To facilitate and popularize the application of such methods, we developed CellMix, an R package that incorporates most state-of-the-art deconvolution methods, into an intuitive and extendible framework, providing a single entry point to explore, assess and disentangle gene expression data from heterogeneous samples.

Availability and Implementation: The CellMix package builds on R/BioConductor and is available from http://web.cbio.uct.ac.za/∼renaud/CRAN/web/CellMix. It is currently being submitted to BioConductor. The package’s vignettes notably contain additional information, examples and references.

Contact:  renaud@cbio.uct.ac.za
Leveraging reads that span multiple single nucleotide polymorphisms for haplotype inference from sequencing data
Authors: Yang Wen-Yun , Hormozdiari Farhad , Wang Zhanyong , He Dan , Pasaniuc Bogdan , Eskin Eleazar
Published: July 2013

Motivation: Haplotypes, defined as the sequence of alleles on one chromosome, are crucial for many genetic analyses. As experimental determination of haplotypes is extremely expensive, haplotypes are traditionally inferred using computational approaches from genotype data, i.e. the mixture of the genetic information from both haplotypes. Best performing approaches for haplotype inference rely on Hidden Markov Models, with the underlying assumption that the haplotypes of a given individual can be represented as a mosaic of segments from other haplotypes in the same population. Such algorithms use this model to predict the most likely haplotypes that explain the observed genotype data conditional on reference panel of haplotypes. With rapid advances in short read sequencing technologies, sequencing is quickly establishing as a powerful approach for collecting genetic variation information. As opposed to traditional genotyping-array technologies that independently call genotypes at polymorphic sites, short read sequencing often collects haplotypic information; a read spanning more than one polymorphic locus (multi-single nucleotide polymorphic read) contains information on the haplotype from which the read originates. However, this information is generally ignored in existing approaches for haplotype phasing and genotype-calling from short read data.

Results: In this article, we propose a novel framework for haplotype inference from short read sequencing that leverages multi-single nucleotide polymorphic reads together with a reference panel of haplotypes. The basis of our approach is a new probabilistic model that finds the most likely haplotype segments from the reference panel to explain the short read sequencing data for a given individual. We devised an efficient sampling method within a probabilistic model to achieve superior performance than existing methods. Using simulated sequencing reads from real individual genotypes in the HapMap data and the 1000 Genomes projects, we show that our method is highly accurate and computationally efficient. Our haplotype predictions improve accuracy over the basic haplotype copying model by ∼20% with comparable computational time, and over another recently proposed approach Hap-SeqX by ∼10% with significantly reduced computational time and memory usage.

Availability: Publicly available software is available at http://genetics.cs.ucla.edu/harsh

Contact:  bpasaniuc@mednet.ucla.edu or eeskin@cs.ucla.edu
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Evaluation of the Effects of Surgical Invasiveness on Paravertebral Muscles After Muscle-preserving Interlaminar Decompression (MILD)
Authors: Tonomura Hitoshi , Hatta Yoichiro , Mikami Yasuo , Ikeda Takumi , Harada Tomohisa , Nagae Masateru , Koike Hironori , Hase Hitoshi , Kubo Toshikazu
Published: July 2013

Study Design:

This is a retrospective study.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to determine the extent of damage to the paravertebral muscles after muscle-preserving interlaminar decompression (MILD) using magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate changes in the multifidus muscle (MF).

Summary of Background Data:

Short-term surgical outcomes of MILD for lumbar spinal canal stenosis (LSCS) are satisfactory; however, the extent of damage to the paravertebral muscles after MILD remains unclear.

Methods:

Thirty-four patients (18 men/16 women; mean age: 72.6 y) who had LSCS treated with MILD were retrospectively investigated. A total of 61 decompressed disk levels [L2/3(5); L3/4(21); L4/5(30); L5/S(5)] and 34 nondecompressed levels (L1/2) were assessed. There was 1 decompressed disk level in 12 cases, 2 in 17 cases, and 3 in 5 cases. Magnetic resonance imaging scans were obtained before surgery and at 3 and 12–18 months after surgery, using the same scanner. The rate of paravertebral muscle atrophy was evaluated to compare the area of the MF in the T2-weighted axial plane (intervertebral disk level) preoperatively and postoperatively, using OsiriX Medical Imaging Software. Changes in muscle signal intensity were also recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using 3-way analysis of variance with the post hoc Fisher PSLD test.

Results:

The rate of MF atrophy was 4.0% at the decompressed levels and 2.1% at the nondecompressed levels. There were no changes of signal intensity in the MF between the preoperative and postoperative periods. In decompressed levels, muscle atrophy and signal intensity were significantly improved from 3 months to 12–18 months after surgery. The number and level of the decompressed disks did not affect the extent of muscle injury.

Conclusions:

The extent of paravertebral muscle injury after MILD is satisfactory. The midline interlaminar approach used in this technique may prevent local denervation and irreversible damage to the paravertebral muscles. These results indicate that MILD is useful to treat LSCS less invasively.
Smart space technology innovations
Authors: Chen Mu‐Yen , Lughofer Edwin David
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the theme issue on “Smart space technology innovations”.

Design/methodology/approach

This editorial discusses the innovation concepts and advantages of smart space. The technologies of smart space and its application also are discussed. The editorial surveys the latest literature and research papers submitted to this special issue about smart space and technology in Library Hi Tech.

Findings

Smart space has novel design and implementation perspectives for traditional information systems. Smart space depends not only on ambient intelligence and context‐aware computing techniques, but also on overall information architecture. Therefore, smart space innovation may have wide implications for academic and practice of library and information systems.

Research limitations/implications

The paper discusses opportunities and challenges that smart space will bring. Its discusses the research of the papers submitted to this special issue on these topics.

Originality/value

The research issues of smart space are occurring at international conferences and in journal papers. The focal point on the techniques and applications for library and information systems is primary original and novel.
Facets of digital data dissemination: value addition through “imprints collection”
Authors: Meera B.M. , Manjunath M. , Kaddipujar Manjunath
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Facets of digital data dissemination, namely RRI Digital repository and Imprints collection, are two methods in which science communication can happen in the digital world. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the design, novelty and functionality of these facets as an archive, comprising a collage of profiles and publications of RRIians whose imprints on the sands of time have been culled and collated for posterity.

Design/methodology/approach

RRI Digital repository makes use of DSpace to preserve and showcase the research papers in text format, audio/video of lectures and images. Imprints collection is designed using Dreamweaver software. Images are uploaded using Jalbum.net software.

Findings

DSpace, an open source software meant for managing digital assets can be used as a platform to develop a modern genre of data dissemination. An example to this end is the Imprints collection, a bio‐bibliographic database with many valuable additions showcasing the digital scholarship of an institute with archival value.

Practical implications

Practical implications of both RRI digital repository and imprints collection is to act as support service to enhance the creativity and collaboration among scientists of the institute within and across different research institutes in the country and across the world. Further, ResearcherID embedded in the profile pages of scientists helps scientometricians in citation analysis.

Originality/value

Novelty associated with imprints collection in science communication using DSpace data is the strength of this tool. This is a unique style of digital data dissemination with supporting links between authors, their persona, their papers, lectures and photographs.
Power tactic usage by gender at work and home: past, present, and future
Authors: Schwarzwald Joseph , Koslowsky Meni , Bernstein Jessica
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Research has indicated that gender stereotypes, especially as they relate to women, are changing due to their growing numbers in the labor force. This research on power usage for gaining compliance in conflict situations examines whether a similar tendency exists for social power tactics, another aspect of the gender stereotype.

Design/methodology/approach

In two studies, one focusing on manager‐subordinates interactions (n=141) and the other on husband‐wife relationships (n=149), participants were presented with scenarios describing conflict situations relevant for each setting occurring in three time periods ‐ past, present, and future – and then estimated the frequency of power category (harsh/intermediate/soft) usage by men and women in each of these periods.

Findings

Findings indicated that gender stereotypical attributions eroded over time with a greater ascription of feminine tactics to males in the present and future. It was also found that harsh tactics usage was attributed to a greater extent in the work rather than the home setting.

Research limitations/implications:

In general, stereotype research assesses perceptions rather than reality. The perceptions measured here regarding past and future, though intrinsically informative, may reflect selective perception or social desirability.

Originality/value

This work indicated that the increasing involvement of women in the work force seems to have affected perceptions of the manner in which individuals exercise power in conflict situations. In particular, gender differences in power usage are viewed as diminishing over time; a tendency more discernible in the work world than at home.
Prior consumer satisfaction and alliance encounter satisfaction attributions
Authors: Li Ning , Murphy William H.
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Built upon brand attitude literature, particularly the cognitive dissonance theory and contrast theory, the authors' conceptual framework aims to explain how prior consumer satisfaction with each alliance partner affects consumer attributions (i.e. credit or blame) directed toward each partner for both highly satisfying and less‐than‐highly satisfying alliance experiences.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper extends the cognitive dissonance theory and contrast theory to the brand alliance context. Survey responses from 1,510 consumers, each having had purchase experiences with one of 18 brand alliances, were used to test hypotheses.

Findings

The authors identify which of the two theories provides greater explanatory power under varying conditions. Further, they find an intriguing host effect. That is, consumers tend to hold host partners more responsible for both highly satisfying and less‐than‐highly satisfying alliance encounters.

Practical implications

The authors' findings help firms better understand how consumers respond to alliance encounters. Practical insights include distinct advice for host versus guest partners in partner selection and resource commitments to alliance platforms.

Originality/value

This paper is among the first to investigate consumer reactions to actual alliance encounters, especially in market rather than experimental conditions. Further, whereas the literature has focused on positive consumer experiences with brand alliances, the authors' research includes both highly satisfying and less‐than‐highly satisfying alliance experiences and thus they uniquely report on the full range of alliance encounter outcomes.
Network resources and the innovation performance
Authors: Zheng Suli , Li Huiping , Wu Xiaobo
Published: July 2013

Purpose

So as to understand the effects of network resources on firm innovation and performance within alliances and networks, this paper aims to examine the correlation between network resources and innovation performance through the mediation of capability accumulation and relative bargaining power.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on a survey of 208 Chinese firms engaged in global production networks, this paper extracts four sets of hierarchical regressions to test the impact of network resources on innovation performance.

Findings

Results show that network resources are an important source of competitive advantage and the distinction between accessed resources and embedded resources is critical. Other than through direct influences, innovation performance was partly achieved through the mediating role of technological capability and relative bargaining power.

Research limitations/implications

Building upon the data introduced in this paper, future studies may examine the effects of network resources in different contexts and the interaction between external and internal resources.

Practical implications

For firms competing within and between various networks, the forming and utilizing of network resources become a new source of competitive advantage. Hence, careful planning and a consideration of network resources should be undertaken to achieve improvements to a firm's performance.

Originality/value

First, this paper adds value to the network resource construct by distinguishing two different dimensions. Second, by integrating the mediating effects of technological capabilities and relative bargaining power, this paper reveals the mechanism by which network resources impact innovation performance within various network structures.
Perceived usefulness of innovation programs for high‐tech and low‐tech firms
Authors: Belso‐Martínez José Antonio , Xavier Molina‐Morales F. , Mas‐Verdu Francisco
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Despite the sizable amount of previous research on this topic, little is known about the reasons why firms decide to start collaboration projects with innovation advanced service providers, such as universities and technological institutes. This paper aims to investigate which factors at an individual firm level are involved in these collaborative strategies on supporting product and management improvements offered by local institutions to innovative firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is contextualized in the Valencian region and applies the resource based view and the regional innovation system approach as theoretical frameworks. Methodologically, the paper adopts a cross‐sectional analysis and employs ordered regression models on a sample of innovative firms during 2009.

Findings

Firstly, this paper endorses previous research suggesting the crucial role of cooperation and external knowledge on SME innovation. Secondly, it evidences how internal resources and capabilities determine a firm's use of public supported innovation. Thirdly, previous experience appears to be extremely relevant in explaining successful engagement in both technological and managerial innovation programs.

Research limitations/implications

Because the case study approach and qualitative methodologies are used, the authors advise readers not to generalize their findings. The research on the subject matter is offered as a means to substantiate or refute the latest research premises, and provide empirical evidence on the selected region.

Originality/value

Although this paper corroborates recent contributions, it does provide some novel findings. High‐level managerial capabilities seem to discourage the use of public programs supporting innovation practices (either in technological or managerial aspects), while engagement in university programs relies heavily on the firm's technological capabilities or exposure to global competition, and less on other characteristics. Policy makers should pay particular attention to both pieces of evidence when designing programs.
Priorities and determinants for supply chain management skills development in manufacturing firms
Authors: Lorentz Harri , Töyli Juuso , Solakivi Tomi , Ojala Lauri
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to find out the current SCM skill development priorities in manufacturing firms and how the structural properties of the supply chain translate into demand for SCM skills in manufacturing firms.

Design/methodology/approach

An internet survey was designed and conducted. The responses of 154 manufacturing companies operating in Finland were analysed through descriptive statistics and regression analyses.

Findings

The supply chain management skills with an inter‐organisational focus tend to have a higher development priority than the skills with an intra‐organisational focus. The top five skills for development are: demand forecasting and supply planning; sourcing and supplier management; customer and distribution channel management; production planning and control; and information systems for logistics and production planning. Structural properties of the supply chain seem to have an effect on skills that are related to supply chain design and information flow infrastructure, i.e. the ability to locate the various nodes in the network, and to connect and coordinate their respective activities in the face of often uncertain demand.

Research limitations/implications

The results are based on survey research with a limited sample size and geographic coverage with bias towards large firms. The research scope is further limited to investigating the influence of structural properties of the supply chain, leaving opportunities for further research on the demand for SCM skills.

Originality/value

The authors report original findings that provide input to the development processes of training programmes and university curricula, related to supply chain management. They also initiate theory development on the determinants of demand for SCM skills.
Statistical Challenges in the Quantification of Gunshot Residue Evidence
Authors: Gauriot Romain , Gunaratnam Lawrence , Moroni Rossana , Reinikainen Tapani , Corander Jukka
Published: July 2013

The discharging of a gun results in the formation of extremely small particles known as gunshot residues (GSR). These may be deposited on the skin and clothing of the shooter, on other persons present, and on nearby items or surfaces. Several factors and their complex interactions affect the number of detectable GSR particles, which can deeply influence the conclusions drawn from likelihood ratios or posterior probabilities for prosecution hypotheses of interest. We present Bayesian network models for casework examples and demonstrate that probabilistic quantification of GSR evidence can be very sensitive to the assumptions concerning the model structure, prior probabilities, and the likelihood components. This finding has considerable implications for the use of statistical quantification of GSR evidence in the legal process.
Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (“Bath Salts”),Related Death: Case Report and Review of the Literature,
Authors: Kesha Kilak , Boggs Cassie L. , Ripple Mary G. , Allan Carol H. , Levine Barry , Jufer‐Phipps Rebecca , Doyon Suzanne , Chi PaoLin , Fowler David R.
Published: July 2013

Cathinone derivatives (bath salts) have emerged as the latest drugs of abuse. 3,4‐methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) is the primary active ingredient in bath salts used in this country. This article presents the second reported cause of death by MDPV intoxication alone. In April 2011, a delusional man was emergently brought to a hospital, where he self‐reported bath salt usage. He became agitated, developed ventricular tachycardia, hyperthermia, and died. Comprehensive alcohol and drug testing was performed. Using the alkaline drug screen, heart blood contained 0.7 mg/L MDPV and peripheral blood contained 1.0 mg/L MDPV. His bizarre behavior with life‐threatening hyperthermia was consistent with an MDPV‐induced excited delirium state. MDPV is not yet found by routine immunoassay toxicology screens. Testing for MDPV should be considered in cases with a history of polysubstance abuse with stimulant type drugs, report of acute onset of psychogenic symptoms, excited delirium syndrome, or presentation in a hyperthermic state.
The Effects of Polymer Pigmentation on Fingermark Development Techniques
Authors: Bacon Simon R. , Ojeda Jesus J. , Downham Rory , Sears Vaughn G. , Jones Benjamin J.
Published: July 2013

The effectiveness of latent fingerprint development techniques is heavily influenced by the physical and chemical properties of the deposition surface. The use of powder suspensions is increasing for development of prints on a range of surfaces. We demonstrate that carbon powder suspension development on polymers is detrimentally affected by the presence of common white pigment, titanium dioxide. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrates that patches of the compound are clearly associated with increased levels of powder adhesion. Substrates with nonlocalized titanium dioxide content also exhibit increased levels of carbon powder staining on a surface‐wide basis. Secondary ion mass spectrometry and complementary techniques demonstrate the importance of levels of the pigment within the top 30 nm. The association is independent of fingermark deposition and may be related to surface energy variation. The detrimental effect of the pigment is not observed with small‐particle reagent (MoS2 SPR) or cyanoacrylate (superglue) fuming techniques that exploit different development mechanisms.
A 27‐Locus STR Assay to Meet All United States and European Law Enforcement Agency Standards,
Authors: Schumm James W. , Gutierrez‐Mateo Cristina , Tan Eugene , Selden Richard
Published: July 2013

Different national and international agencies have selected specific STR sets for forensic database use. To enhance database comparison across national and international borders, a 27‐locus multiplex system was developed comprising all 15 STR loci of the European standard set, the current 13 STR loci of the CODIS core, the proposed 22 STR loci of the expanded CODIS core, 4 additional commonly used STR loci, and the amelogenin locus. Development required iterative primer design to resolve primer‐related artifacts, amplicon sizing, and locus‐to‐locus balance issues. The 19.5‐min assay incorporated newly developed six‐dye chemistry analyzed using a novel microfluidic electrophoresis instrument capable of simultaneous detection and discrimination of 8 or more fluorescent dyes. The 27‐locus multiplex offers the potential for a new international STR standard permitting laboratories in any jurisdiction to use a single reaction to determine profiles for loci they typically generate plus an expanded common STR profiling set of global interest.
Dental Age Assessment in Children: A Comparison of Four Methods in a Recent French Population
Authors: Urzel Vanessa , Bruzek Jaroslav
Published: July 2013

The aim of this study was to analyze the accuracy and the reliability of four methods of dental age estimation (Demirjian, Willems I, Willems II, and Chaillet standards) in a French population. Orthopantomograms of 743 children aged between 4 and 15 years were used. The Demirjian standards gave a consistent overestimation of dental age compared with chronological age (+0.45 and +0.46 years for girls and boys, respectively). We found that three modified methods were more accurate for both sexes than Demirjian's method: the Willems I method appeared to be more suitable when the sex and ethnicity are both known (−0.09 and +0.14 years for girls and boys, respectively); the Willems II method was more accurate for children of unknown sex (mean difference = 0.00 years), and the Chaillet method was found to be more accurate than the Demirjian method, but less accurate than the Willems I method (−0.59 and −0.18 years for girls and boys, respectively).
Is Parenteral Phosphate Replacement in the Intensive Care Unit Safe?
Authors: Agarwal Banwari , Walecka Agnieszka , Shaw Steve , Davenport Andrew
Published: July 2013

Hypophosphatemia is well recognized in the intensive care setting, associated with refeeding and continuous forms of renal replacement therapy (CCRT). However, it is unclear as to when and how to administer intravenous phosphate supplementation in the general intensive care setting. There have been recent concerns regarding phosphate administration and development of acute kidney injury. We therefore audited our practice of parenteral phosphate administration. We prospectively audited parenteral phosphate administration (20 mmol) in 58 adult patients in a general intensive care unit in a University tertiary referral center. Fifty‐eight patients were audited; mean age 57.2 ± 2.0 years, 70.7% male. The median duration of the infusion was 310 min (228–417), and 50% of the patients were on CRRT. 63.8% of patients were hypophosphatemic (<0.87 mmol/L) prior to the phosphate infusion, and serum phosphate increased from 0.79 ± 0.02 to 1.07 ± 0.03 mmol/L, P < 0.001. Two patients became hyperphosphatemic (>1.45 mmol/L). There was no correlation between the change in serum phosphate and the pre‐infusion phosphate. Although there were no significant changes in serum urea, creatinine or other electrolytes, arterial ionized calcium fell from 1.15 ± 0.01 to 1.13 ± 0.01 mmol/L, P < 0.01. Although infusion of 20 mmol phosphate did not appear to adversely affect renal function and corrected hypophosphatemia in 67.7% of cases, we found that around 33% of patients who were given parenteral phosphate were not hypophosphatemic, and that the fall in ionized calcium raises the possibility of the formation of calcium‐phosphate complexes and potential for soft tissue calcium deposition.
Retinal vascular calibre and response to light exposure and serial imaging
Authors: von Hanno Therese , Sjølie Anne Katrin , Mathiesen Ellisiv B.
Published: July 2013

Purpose:  To investigate whether retinal vessel calibre measurements on optical retinal photography are affected by light and dark exposure prior to photography and whether the vessel calibre changes during an imaging sequence of several images.

Methods:  Digital optical retinal photographs were obtained from 32 healthy adults in two separate image sequences of six images during 1 min; one sequence with 10 min of dark exposure and one with 10 min of light exposure prior to imaging. Retinal arteriolar and venular calibres were measured computer‐assisted and summarized as central retinal artery and vein equivalents (CRAE and CRVE). Outcome measures were difference in calibres after prior light versus prior dark exposure and difference in calibre during each of the two imaging sequences.

Results:  CRVE was wider with prior light exposure (2.7%, p = 0.0001), comparing the first image in each image sequence. Within each sequence, there was a venular dilatation from first to last image, both with prior light exposure (1.7%, p = 0.0003) and prior dark exposure (3.1%, p < 0.0001), with the change less pronounced with prior light exposure (p = 0.0164). CRAE showed no significant change in either outcome.

Conclusions:  Retinal venular calibre was wider with light exposure prior to imaging and increased slightly during the imaging sequences, less pronounced after prior light than dark exposure. Measurement error due to these effects will probably be reduced by avoiding dark prior to imaging, and a possible bias effect of endothelial dysfunction may possibly be reduced by measuring calibre on an image taken early in the image sequence.
High EVI1 expression is associated with MLL rearrangements and predicts decreased survival in paediatric acute myeloid leukaemia: a report from the children's oncology group
Authors: Ho Phoenix A. , Alonzo Todd A. , Gerbing Robert B. , Pollard Jessica A. , Hirsch Betsy , Raimondi Susana C. , Cooper Todd , Gamis Alan S. , Meshinchi Soheil
Published: July 2013

Ectopic viral integration site‐1 (EVI1) is highly expressed in certain cytogenetic subsets of adult acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), and has been associated with inferior survival. We sought to examine the clinical and biological associations of EVI1high, defined as expression in excess of normal controls, in paediatric AML. EVI1 mRNA expression was measured via quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction in diagnostic specimens obtained from 206 patients. Expression levels were correlated with clinical features and outcome. EVI1high was present in 58/206 (28%) patients. MLL rearrangements occurred in 40% of EVI1high patients as opposed to 12% of the EVI1low/absent patients (P < 0·001). No abnormalities of 3q26 were found in EVI1high patients by conventional cytogenetic analysis, nor were cryptic 3q26 abnormalities detected in a subset of patients screened by next‐generation sequencing. French‐American‐British class M7 was enriched in the EVI1high group, accounting for 24% of these patients. EVI1high patients had significantly lower 5‐year overall survival from study entry (51% vs. 68%, P = 0·015). However, in multivariate analysis including other established prognostic markers, EVI1 expression did not retain independent prognostic significance. EVI1 expression is currently being studied in a larger cohort of patients enrolled on subsequent Children's Oncology Group trials, to determine if EVI1high has prognostic value in MLL‐rearranged or intermediate‐risk subsets.
Microleakage of the prosthetic abutment/implant interface with internal and external connection: In vitro study
Authors: Larrucea Verdugo Carlos , Jaramillo Núñez Guido , Acevedo Avila Ariel , Larrucea San Martín Carlo
Published: July 2013

Objective

This study determined the degree of marginal microleakage of the abutment–implant interface on platforms with Morse taper connection and external connection.

Materials and methods

For this in vitro study, 42 implants, 21 with external connection and 21 with Morse taper connection, were used, immersed in acrylic resin cylinders. Each implant was joined by a prosthetic abutment screw tightened at different degrees, forming the six study groups: (1) External connection, manual tightening (2) External connection, 20 Newton (N) tightening (3) External connection, 30 N tightening (4) Morse taper connection, manual tightening (5) Morse taper connection, 20 N tightening (6)Morse taper connection, 30 N tightening. All samples were subjected to load cycling and thermocycling. Then, they were submerged in a solution of 0.2% methylene blue for 24 h. Finally, the microleakage was measured via 20× optical microscopy in each study group, average was obtained, and Mann–Whitney test was applied.

Results

Statistically significant differences (P < 0.001) were found between the levels of microleakage presented in the Morse taper connection implants (1.48) and external connection implants (2.8) in all three types of tightening. Microleakage levels decreases when increasing torque is applied to the screws.

Conclusion

Morse taper connection implants showed lower levels of microleakage than external connection implants; also, it was observed that microleakage decreases in the way torque increases.
Aerobic Exercise Combined with Antioxidative Treatment does not Counteract Moderate‐ or Mid‐Stage Alzheimer‐Like Pathophysiology of APP/PS1 Mice
Authors: Xu Zhi‐Qiang , Zhang Lu‐Qing , Wang Qin , Marshall Charles , Xiao Na , Gao Jun‐Ying , Wu Ting , Ding Jiong , Hu Gang , Xiao Ming
Published: July 2013

Aims

The present study evaluated the combined treatment effects of aerobic exercise and antioxidative stress on moderate‐stage Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

Ten‐month‐old APP/PS1 mice were given antioxidative treatment with acetylcysteine, along with aerobic exercise for 6 weeks. Spatial learning and memory were tested using the Morris water maze, and β‐amyloid (Aβ) plaque deposits in the forebrain were quantified by Thioflavin‐S staining. Levels of soluble Aβ1‐42, β‐secretase enzyme, ү‐secretase enzyme, oxidative and antioxidant stress markers nitrotyrosine and peroxiredoxin‐1, glial markers glial fibrillary acidic protein and ionized calcium‐binding adaptor molecule 1, and synaptic protein synaptophysin in the hippocampus were all measured by western blotting and/or immunohistochemistry.

Results

APP/PS1 mice showed severe declines in spatial learning and memory compared with their wild‐type littermates, which were not attenuated by aerobic exercise combined with antioxidative treatment. The pathologic analysis revealed that Aβ deposition and production, oxidative stress, glial inflammation, and synaptic loss were not mitigated in the brain of exercised APP/PS1 mice, compared with the sedentary APP/PS1 animals.

Conclusion

This study reveals that a combined treatment of aerobic exercise plus antioxidative stress does not counteract pathophysiology in the moderate‐ or mid‐stages of AD.
A Patient with Recent Chest Discomfort—Ischemia or No Ischemia? Postsystolic Shortening Comes to the Rescue
Authors: Fadel Bahaa M. , Al‐Amro Bandar , Al‐Admawi Mohammed , Sergani Hani , Alsoufi Bahaaldin , Pergola Valeria , Di Salvo Giovanni
Published: July 2013

The diagnosis of myocardial ischemia in the emergency department can be challenging particularly in a patient in whom the chest discomfort has abated. Symptoms can be atypical, physical exam is often noncontributory, the electrocardiogram is usually nondiagnostic and cardiac enzymes remain normal. Thus, the decision for hospital admission or discharge can be quite difficult. Here, we describe such a patient in whom echocardiography with strain imaging identified the presence of postsystolic shortening (PSS) at the left ventricular apex. This suggested the likelihood of ischemic memory in the territory of the left anterior descending (LAD) artery. At coronary angiography a high grade stenosis was present in the proximal LAD artery. Our report highlights the role of echocardiography in the detection of myocardial ischemia and apical PSS as a marker of ischemic memory.
Innovation in youth mental health services in Australia: common characteristics across the first headspace centres
Authors: Rickwood Debra , Van Dyke Nina , Telford Nic
Published: July 2013

Aim

headspace centres comprise a significant innovation in community‐based youth mental health service delivery in Australia. This paper examines the service activity of the first headspace centres to determine common and unique practice characteristics across headspace centres in this new approach to mental health service delivery.

Methods

Data come from quarterly progress reports provided by the first 30 headspace centres during the 2010–2011 financial year. The information from 120 reports was analysed qualitatively using thematic analysis techniques to determine the types of activities reported by centres against key performance indicators.

Results

The main finding was the large number and wide range of centre activity. This heterogeneity may be explained in part by the diversity of communities across Australia and the importance that headspace places on addressing the specific needs of the local community as well as drawing upon the existing capacity that is available within a community. The most common activities were community engagement, building local partnerships and providing a youth friendly environment. There was a particularly strong focus by the majority of centres on establishing and supporting a Youth Reference Group to guide centre development and implementation.

Conclusions

The progressive upscaling of headspace centres across Australia provides a unique opportunity to observe how a significant reorientation in health service delivery is implemented in practice to meet the needs of diverse communities. Further investigation of the headspace experience will provide critical lessons for other countries investing in new approaches to youth mental health.
The immune system of mouse vibrissae follicles: cellular composition and indications of immune privilege
Authors: Bertolini Marta , Meyer Katja C. , Slominski Radomir , Kobayashi Ken , Ludwig Ralf J. , Paus Ralf
Published: July 2013

Although vibrissae hair follicles (VHFs) have long been a key research model in the life sciences, their immune system (IS) is essentially unknown. Therefore, we have characterized basic parameters of the VHF‐IS of C57BL/6J mice by quantitative (immuno‐)histomorphometry. Murine anagen VHF harbour few CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the distal mesenchyme and sinuses but hardly any gamma‐delta T cells in their distal epithelium. MHC class II+ Langerhans cells are seeded in the VHF infundibulum, which is also surrounded by MHC class II+ and CD11b+ cells (macrophages). The number of Langerhans cells then declines sharply in the VHF bulge, and the VHF bulb lacks MHC class II+ cells. Mast cells densely populate the VHF connective tissue sheath, where they strikingly cluster around the bulge. Both the bulge and the bulb of VHF display signs of immune privilege, that is, low MHC class I and MHC class II expression and local immunoinhibitor expression (CD200, TGFβ1). This immunophenotyping study fills an important gap in the immunobiology of murine skin and identifies differences between the IS of VHF, mouse pelage and human terminal HFs. This facilitates utilizing murine VHF as a versatile organ culture model for general immunology and immune privilege research in situ.
Structural changes of CFTR R region upon phosphorylation: a plastic platform for intramolecular and intermolecular interactions
Authors: Bozoky Zoltan , Krzeminski Mickael , Chong P. Andrew , Forman‐Kay Julie D.
Published: July 2013

Chloride channel gating and trafficking of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) are regulated by phosphorylation. Intrinsically disordered segments of the protein are responsible for phospho‐regulation, particularly the regulatory (R) region that is a target for several kinases and phosphatases. The R region remains disordered following phosphorylation, with different phosphorylation states sampling various conformations. Recent studies have demonstrated the crucial role that intramolecular and intermolecular interactions of the R region play in CFTR regulation. Different partners compete for the same binding segment, with the R region containing multiple overlapping binding elements. The non‐phosphorylated R region interacts with the nucleotide binding domains and inhibits channel activity by blocking heterodimerization. Phosphorylation shifts the equilibrium such that the R region is excluded from the dimer interface, facilitating gating and processing by stimulating R region interactions with other domains and proteins. The dynamic conformational sampling and transient binding of the R region to multiple partners enables complex control of CFTR channel activity and trafficking.
Global patterns of freshwater species diversity, threat and endemism
Authors: Collen Ben , Whitton Felix , Dyer Ellie E. , Baillie Jonathan E. M. , Cumberlidge Neil , Darwall William R. T. , Pollock Caroline , Richman Nadia I. , Soulsby Anne‐Marie , Böhm Monika
Published: July 2013

Aim

Global‐scale studies are required to identify broad‐scale patterns in the distributions of species, to evaluate the processes that determine diversity and to determine how similar or different these patterns and processes are among different groups of freshwater species. Broad‐scale patterns of spatial variation in species distribution are central to many fundamental questions in macroecology and conservation biology. We aimed to evaluate how congruent three commonly used metrics of diversity were among taxa for six groups of freshwater species.

Location

Global.

Methods

We compiled geographical range data on 7083 freshwater species of mammals, amphibians, reptiles, fishes, crabs and crayfish to evaluate how species richness, richness of threatened species and endemism are distributed across freshwater ecosystems. We evaluated how congruent these measures of diversity were among taxa at a global level for a grid cell size of just under 1°.

Results

We showed that although the risk of extinction faced by freshwater decapods is quite similar to that of freshwater vertebrates, there is a distinct lack of spatial congruence in geographical range between different taxonomic groups at this spatial scale, and a lack of congruence among three commonly used metrics of biodiversity. The risk of extinction for freshwater species was consistently higher than for their terrestrial counterparts.

Main conclusions

We demonstrate that broad‐scale patterns of species richness, threatened‐species richness and endemism lack congruence among the six freshwater taxonomic groups examined. Invertebrate species are seldom taken into account in conservation planning. Our study suggests that both the metric of biodiversity and the identity of the taxa on which conservation decisions are based require careful consideration. As geographical range information becomes available for further sets of species, further testing will be warranted into the extent to which geographical variation in the richness of these six freshwater groups reflects broader patterns of biodiversity in fresh water.
The Indian Ocean during the Cold War: Thinking through a Critical Geography
Authors: Lee Christopher J.
Published: July 2013

As part of a forum on the Indian Ocean, this article argues for the continued importance of the region during the Cold War. It describes how this period introduced new great power rivalries – namely, the United States and Soviet Union – but, as a result, reflected continuities with preceding centuries. This recent era is consequently indispensable for understanding ongoing patterns of history, in addition to providing a vital backdrop to our political present.
Prognostic significance of immunohistochemistry‐based markers and algorithms in immunochemotherapy‐treated diffuse large B cell lymphoma patients
Authors: Culpin Rachel E , Sieniawski Michal , Angus Brian , Menon Geetha K , Proctor Stephen J , Milne Paul , McCabe Kate , Mainou‐Fowler Tryfonia
Published: July 2013

Aims

To reassess the prognostic validity of immunohistochemical markers and algorithms identified in the CHOP era in immunochemotherapy‐treated diffuse large B cell lymphoma patients.

Methods and results

The prognostic significance of immunohistochemical markers (CD10, Bcl‐6, Bcl‐2, MUM1, Ki‐67, CD5, GCET1, FoxP1, LMO2) and algorithms (Hans, Hans*, Muris, Choi, Choi*, Nyman, Visco‐Young, Tally) was assessed using clinical diagnostic blocks taken from an unselected, population‐based cohort of 190 patients treated with R‐CHOP. Dichotomizing expression, low CD10 (<10%), low LMO2 (<70%) or high Bcl‐2 (≥80%) predicted shorter overall survival (OS; P = 0.033, P = 0.010 and P = 0.008, respectively). High Bcl‐2 (≥80%), low Bcl‐6 (<60%), low GCET1 (<20%) or low LMO2 (<70%) predicted shorter progression‐free survival (PFS; P = 0.001, P = 0.048, P = 0.045 and P = 0.002, respectively). The Hans, Hans* and Muris classifiers predicted OS (P = 0.022, P = 0.037 and P = 0.011) and PFS (P = 0.021, P = 0.020 and P = 0.004). The Choi, Choi* and Tally were associated with PFS (P = 0.049, P = 0.009 and P = 0.023). In multivariate analysis, the International Prognostic Index (IPI) was the only independent predictor of outcome (OS; HR: 2.60, P < 0.001 and PFS; HR: 2.91, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Results highlight the controversy surrounding immunohistochemistry‐based algorithms in the R‐CHOP era. The need for more robust markers, applicable to the clinic, for incorporation into improved prognostic systems is emphasized.