bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti‐neurofascin antibody in combined central and peripheral demyelination
Authors: Yamasaki Ryo
Published: November 2013

Neurofascin (NF), a cell adhesion molecule expressed in both the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), plays important roles in developing and maintaining neural structures. There are several subtypes of NF resulting from post‐translational modifications: NF155, 166, 180 and 186. Among them, NF155 and NF186 are expressed in the mature CNS/PNS. NF155 is present on the oligodendroglial cell surface in the CNS and on the Schwann cell surface in the PNS at paranodes, where it tightly connects with contactin and caspr on the axonal surface of the paranode, and acts as a stabilizer of the nodes of Ranvier. NF186 exists on the axonal surface at the nodes of Ranvier. NF186 is associated with voltage‐gated Na channels (Nav), whereas both NF186 and Nav are anchored by ankyrin G. NF186 contributes to the clustering of Nav at the node. Combined central and peripheral demyelination (CCPD) is an inflammatory demyelinating disorder affecting both the CNS and PNS tissues. Distinct mechanisms including multiple sclerosis and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy have been hypothesized to play a role in this condition on the basis of distinctive clinical and laboratory findings. We detected anti‐NF155 antibody by cell‐based assay, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and western blot in both the sera and cerebrospinal fluids of CCPD patients at high frequencies, but did not detect it in patients with other neurological disease or healthy controls. Herein, basic aspects and the clinical significance of NF as indispensable regulators and autoimmune target molecules are summarized.
Bone Formation in a Local Defect around Dental Implants Coated with Extracellular Matrix Components
Authors: de Barros Raquel R.M. , Novaes Arthur B. , Korn Paula , Queiroz Adriana , de Almeida Adriana L.G. , Hintze Vera , Scharnweber Dieter , Bierbaum Susanne , Stadlinger Bernd
Published: November 2013

Purpose

The coating of implant surfaces with components of the extracellular matrix offers an approach to influence peri‐implant bone healing. In this study, bone healing around coated implants is analyzed in a peri‐implant defect model.

Materials and Methods

Eight months after extraction of the premolar teeth, six dogs received 48 implants (eight per animal) in the mandible. Implant surfaces were sandblasted and acid‐etched, and some were additionally coated with collagen type II and chondroitin sulfate (collagen/CS). On each side of the mandible, implants either had no peri‐implant defect (control side) or a vertical defect of 5 mm in depth and 0.5, 1.0, or 2.0 mm in width. Implants healed submerged for 8 weeks. Fluorochrome staining, histology, and histomorphometry were used to analyze implant osseointegration.

Results

Fluorochrome labels showed an increased mineralization around collagen/CS‐coated surfaces at 4 weeks (p = .031). Histomorphometry generally showed lower vertical and horizontal bone apposition with increasing gap size for both surface types. In gapless sites and 0.5‐mm gaps, collagen/CS coated implants showed increased bone volume in areas directly adjacent to the implant, in comparison with uncoated implants (p < .05).

Conclusion

The width of the peri‐implant gap influences peri‐implant bone formation. Complete filling of all gaps by newly formed bone could not be observed around either surface. In proximity to the surface, implant surface coating by collagen/CS positively influenced bone formation.
Use of transoral endoscopy for pharyngeal examination: Cross‐sectional analysis
Authors: Tsuji Kunihiro , Doyama Hisashi , Takeda Yasuhito , Takemura Kenichi , Yoshida Naohiro , Kito Yosuke , Asahina Yoshiro , Ito Renma , Nakanishi Hiroyoshi , Hayashi Tomoyuki , Inagaki Satoko , Tominaga Kei , Waseda Yohei , Tsuji Shigetsugu , Yamada Shinya , Hino Shoryoku , Okada Toshihide
Published: November 2013

Background and Aim

Transoral endoscopy with narrow band imaging (NBI) is useful for identifying early‐stage head and neck cancer. However, the screening capability of transoral upper gastrointestinal endoscopy has not yet been systematically evaluated. We evaluated the usefulness of transoral upper gastrointestinal endoscopy for pharyngeal examination.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study evaluated 480 patients. All endoscopic pharyngeal examinations with NBI were carried out in accordance with prescribed procedures, consisting of 10 images each and all images were assessed by a blinded reviewer. We examined the association between the diagnostic usefulness of pharyngeal examination and other factors.

Results

Median subject age was 64 years (range 22–90 years), and 64% were male. Almost all patients (98%) had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status of 0 or 1.Butylscopolamine bromide was given to 382 patients (80%), and a sedative was given to 460 (96%) patients. Median observation time was 74 s (range, 16–362 s), resulting in a mean of 9.0 usable images per patient. However, photographs of the right and left pyriform sinuses were consistently poor. Ordered logistic regression analysis showed that quality images were positively correlated with increased patient age.

Conclusions

Transoral endoscopic examination was possible in most patients for screening of the head and neck. However, results were poor in the pyriform sinuses, indicating that additional improvements of examination methods and instruments are needed to enhance screening accuracy.
Inverted‐U shaped effects of D1 dopamine receptor stimulation in the medial preoptic nucleus on sexually motivated song in male European starlings
Authors: Riters Lauren V. , Pawlisch Benjamin A. , Kelm‐Nelson Cynthia A. , Stevenson Sharon A.
Published: November 2013

Past studies in songbirds have highlighted a central role for the medial preoptic nucleus (mPOA) in context‐appropriate vocal communication. During the breeding season, male songbirds sing primarily to attract females (sexually motivated song) and to repel competitors (agonistically motivated song). Past data have linked dopamine and D1 dopamine receptors in the mPOA to sexually motivated but not agonistically motivated song; however, direct effects of dopamine receptor manipulations in the mPOA on song have not been experimentally tested. Here, we tested the hypothesis that D1 receptor stimulation in the mPOA selectively influences sexually motivated male song, and the possibility that the effects of D1 receptor agonism differ at low and high doses. In a first study, breeding‐condition male European starlings received infusions of saline or a single dose of the D1 receptor agonist SKF 38393 on separate test days into the mPOA or hypothalamic control areas. Stimulation of D1 receptors in the mPOA triggered sexually motivated but not agonistically motivated song. A second study showed inverted‐U shaped dose–response effects of the agonist, such that low levels of sexually motivated song were observed at low and high levels of D1 receptor activation. A third study showed that the effects of the D1 receptor agonist were blocked by the D1 receptor antagonist SCH 23390. These findings suggest that an optimal level of D1 receptor stimulation in the mPOA is needed to facilitate sexually motivated vocal production. The results support a central, context‐specific role for the mPOA in vocal communication, and more broadly demonstrate a complex, modulatory influence of D1 receptors in the mPOA on sexually motivated behavior.
Scent gland apparatus in the Western conifer seed bug Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann (Heteroptera: Coreidae)
Authors: Benelli Giovanni , Canale Angelo , Santini Luciano , Lucchi Andrea
Published: November 2013

The coreid Leptoglossus occidentalis is a Nearctic bug responsible for severe seed losses to pine orchards. When disturbed, adults and nymphs emit a defensive secretion deemed an allomone. Here we describe the gross morphology of the scent gland apparatus and the related evaporatory structures in nymphs and adults of L. occidentalis, through light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Adults of both sexes possess a metathoracic scent gland complex (MTG) including a central orange‐yellow reservoir and a pair of white lateral glands, connected by ducts to the reservoir. The MTG belongs to the diastomian type, with two ostioles located on the metathorax associated with a microsculptured cuticular accumulation area, i.e. evaporatory area, which can prevent the spread of the secretion on to non‐evaporative cuticle and increase scent fluid evaporation. A high number of male‐specific sternal gland pores were observed. These pores and associated glands are likely the source of an attractant pheromone, which could be extremely useful in monitoring and combating this invasive pest. In nymphs, MTG is replaced by two dorsal abdominal scent glands (DAGs) located between the 4th and the 6th urotergites. DAGs are reddish cuticle‐lined sacs with gland cells forming the gland wall; the scent substances are released through two orifices lying on the mid‐dorsal abdominal line between urotergites IV–V and V–VI. Also in nymphs, peculiar cuticular evaporatory areas surround both orifices.
An overview of the mechanical properties of nickel–titanium endodontic instruments
Authors: Zhou Huimin , Peng Bin , Zheng Yu‐Feng
Published: November 2013

Differences in mechanical properties between endodontic instruments might be related to the chemical composition, phase constitution, or fabrication process of nickel–titanium (NiTi) endodontic instruments. An awareness and knowledge of the mechanical properties of NiTi endodontic files and their association with the metallurgical properties is useful for clinicians to understand the behavior of NiTi instruments in root canals and help them to make decisions regarding which instruments are appropriate for root canal therapy under certain clinical conditions. This review article summarizes the mechanical properties of NiTi endodontic instruments including the flexibility, torsional resistance, flexural resistance, and cyclic fatigue of the conventional superelastic NiTi instruments and the most recently developed novel NiTi instruments with martensite and R‐phase. The influence of the metallurgical properties and the thermomechanical processing on the mechanical properties are discussed.
Methods and models to study nickel–titanium instruments
Authors: Shen Ya , Cheung Gary S.P.
Published: November 2013

Over the past two decades, nickel–titanium (NiTi) instruments have become an important part of the armamentarium for root canal treatment. They are increasingly used by generalists and specialists to facilitate the cleaning and shaping of root canals. Despite the advertising claims of superiority of design for some NiTi rotary systems, few have been supported by objective well‐designed studies in the literature. A variety of experiments with different models and methods have been developed for studying the properties of NiTi instruments and how they fulfil these mechanical goals. One of the main issues is how to make a rational choice for the best study model that is relevant. This article aims to present an overview of those methods and devices that have been used in endodontic literature for studying NiTi files.
Risk sensitivity and the behaviour of fishing vessels
Authors: Dowling Natalie A , Wilcox Chris , Mangel Marc
Published: November 2013

Risk sensitivity is an important component of fisher behaviour, yet its impact on fisher decision‐making and utility is poorly understood. Here, we incorporate various forms of risk in a model of location choice by fishing vessels targeting broadbill swordfish, Xiphias gladius, and evaluate the importance of risk sensitivity for predicting location, perceived utility and profit over a fishing season. We consider short‐term, or trip‐level, risk as natural, social or endogenous. Longer‐term, or seasonal, risk includes accumulated profit as a state variable. When considering only short‐term risk, endogenous and social risks are predicted to have the largest impact on profit, while natural risk also is predicted to impact on location choice. When longer‐term (seasonal) risk was considered, the impacts of short‐term (trip‐level) risks on profit were reduced. Model results were somewhat sensitive to assumed input parameters. The model allows users to quantify the extent of risk interaction and the relative sensitivity of perceived utility, location choice and profit. By providing a utility function capturing the fisher decision‐making process, the model provides a platform for the consideration of simultaneous forms of risk under different circumstances.
Variability in reproductive traits in Jatropha curcas L. accessions during early developmental stages under warm subtropical conditions
Authors: Nietsche Silvia , Vendrame Wagner A. , Crane Jonathan H. , Pereira Marlon C. T. , Costa Anne , Reis Sidnei T.
Published: November 2013

Variability in floral, fruit, and seed characteristics, and oil content of 15 accession of Jatropha curcas during early development were assessed during two flowering periods in south Florida subtropical climate. The two flowering periods had leaf flushing in March. Field evaluation using 18 quantitative traits showed significant variation among accessions. The number of female flowers and female : male flower ratio ranged from 1 to 15 and 1 : 8.8 to 1 : 67.8, respectively. Fruit set by natural pollination was 89 and 66% during the first (1st) and second (2nd) flowering periods, respectively. A higher number of female‐type inflorescences were observed during summer. There were significant differences in seed traits, except for number of seeds per fruit. Accession TREC 31 had the highest individual seed dry weight and 100‐seed weight (0.83 g and 79.7 g, respectively). The oil content varied from 19.30% to 35.62%. Seed dry weight had positive correlation with seed fresh weight, seed length, seed thickness, seed width, and 100‐seed weight, but negative correlation with oil content. Based on the cluster analysis using 15 morphological traits, jatropha accessions were grouped into five main clusters and accessions from different geographic regions grouped together in a cluster. Principal component analyses (PCA) revealed morphological variation. The first three components explained 73.5% of the total variation and seed dry weight, 100‐seed weight, total flowers per inflorescence, male flowers per inflorescence and fruit set can be used to distinguish accessions. The PCA also indicated that flowering traits were more influenced by seed origin while seed traits were affected by flowering spans. Although evaluations were performed in plants during the juvenile phase, accessions TREC 31 and TREC 55 had superior averages for almost all characters evaluated. These results provide a preliminary assessment of the high variability in jatropha accessions evaluated and their potential for use in breeding and genetic improvement programs.
Evaluating seasonal variation in mineral concentration of cool‐season pasture herbage
Authors: Jones G. B. , Tracy B. F.
Published: November 2013

Pasture herbage is a major source of minerals for livestock in pasture‐based production systems. Herbage mineral concentrations vary throughout the growing season, whereas mineral supplementation to livestock is often constant. The study objectives were to analyse the seasonal variation in herbage mineral concentrations in tall fescue [Schedonorus phoenix (Scop.) Holub]‐based pasture with regard to beef cattle mineral requirements and to create a statistical model to predict variation in herbage mineral concentrations across the growing season. Pasture herbage was analysed from 12 grazing systems in Virginia to determine its mineral concentration from April to October of 2008–2012. The pasture herbage, grown without fertilization, contained adequate macronutrient concentrations to meet the requirements of dry beef cows through the growing season and the requirements of lactating beef cows in April. Phosphorus supplementation appeared to be unnecessary for dry beef cows given adequate concentrations in pasture herbage. A model using month of harvest, soil moisture and relative humidity explained 75% of the variation in an aggregated mineral factor. The 90% prediction intervals indicated that N, P, K, S and Cu concentrations could be predicted within 1·35, 0·08, 0·80 and 0·07% and 3·83 mg kg−1 respectively. Prediction of herbage mineral concentrations could help to improve livestock health, reduce costs to producers and limit nutrient losses to the environment.
Severe congenital factor XIII deficiency caused by novel W187X and G273V mutations in the F13A gene; diagnosis and classification according to the ISTH/SSC guidelines
Authors: Souri M. , Biswas A. , Misawa M. , Omura H. , Ichinose A.
Published: November 2013

Factor XIII (FXIII) consists of the A and B subunits (FXIII‐A and FXIII‐B) and stabilizes fibrin clots. Defects in either the FXIII‐A or FXIII‐B gene lead to congenital FXIII deficiency, which manifests a life‐long haemorrhagic tendency. Thus, prophylactic FXIII replacement therapy is recommended. To establish a management plan for a 30‐year‐old male patient with ‘indefinite’ FXIII deficiency (<40% of the normal FXIII), he was characterized by state‐of‐the‐art techniques as guided by the FXIII/Fibrinogen subcommittee of ISTH/SSC. FXIII activity turned out to be virtually undetectable by three functional assays. Four immunological assays detected essentially no FXIII protein, FXIII‐A antigen, and A2B2 antigen, but normal FXIII‐B antigen. Accordingly, he was diagnosed as a ‘severe’ FXIII‐A deficiency case. He had no anti‐FXIII antibodies, because a 1:1 cross‐mixing test (ammonia release assay) and a five‐step mixing test (amine incorporation assay) between his plasma and normal plasma demonstrated deficiency patterns. Furthermore, a dosing test using plasma‐derived FXIII concentrates revealed its normal recovery. DNA sequencing analysis identified two novel mutations, W187X & G273V, in the F13A gene. Genetic analyses confirmed that he was a compound heterozygote and his mother and sister were heterozygotes of either one of these mutations, indicating the hereditary nature of this disorder. Molecular modelling predicted that the G273V mutation would cause clashes with the surrounding residues in the core domain of FXIII‐A, and ultimately would result in the instability of the mutant molecule. Detailed characterization of ‘indefinite’ FXIII deficiency made it possible to make its definite diagnosis and best management plan.
Is the Give Youth a Voice questionnaire an appropriate measure of teen‐centred care in paediatric oncology: a Rasch measurement theory analysis
Authors: Klassen Anne F , Cano Stefan J. , Sinha Roona , Shahbaz Areej , Klaassen Robert , Dix David
Published: November 2013

Background

Adolescents have their own views about the cancer care they receive and how they feel they are treated, but their opinions are rarely solicited.

Objective

To determine whether the 56‐item Give Youth a Voice (GYV‐56), its subscales and its 20‐item short‐form, are clinically meaningful and psychometrically sound instruments that can be used to measure teen‐centred care (TCC) in paediatric oncology.

Design

Qualitative interviews and a questionnaire survey.

Setting and participants

Qualitative interviews with 38 childhood cancer survivors. GYV‐56 data collected from 200 paediatric cancer patients and survivors.

Main outcome measure

The GYV‐56, which measures the following four aspects of service delivery: Supportive and respectful relationships; Information sharing and communication; Supporting independence; and Teen‐centred services.

Results

Qualitative data provided broad support for the TCC conceptual framework and GYV‐56 items. After post‐hoc reduction of the response options from 7 to 3 (to correct for disordered thresholds), fit to the Rasch model was good, most items showed acceptable fit residuals and chi‐square P‐values, scale reliability were supported and item locations defined a continuum for TCC that was well‐targeted to the sample. By calibrating the items for each subscale and the short‐form to the full scale, the scores obtained on each measure are directly comparable.

Conclusion

Our study found initial support for use of the GYV with a reduced response option format for examining TCC in the adolescent oncology patients. in this paediatric population. Further research using the GYV is needed to elaborate upon our findings.
Optimisation of spray drying process parameters for low‐fat honey‐based milk powder with antioxidant activity
Authors: Bansal Vikas , Sharma Harish Kumar , Nanda Vikas
Published: November 2013

The purpose of this study was to optimise process parameters to prepare spray‐dried honey‐based milk powder containing functional properties of honey. Experimental design with temperature (180 to 200 °C), honey concentration (5–15%) and feed flow rate (8–10 rpm) as independent variables was studied to investigate the effect on product responses. Results showed that increasing the temperature resulted in powder with lower moisture, bulk density, antioxidant activity, total phenolic contents, total flavonoid contents and higher water solubility index. Increasing feed flow rate resulted in higher moisture, bulk density, antioxidant activity, reduced water solubility index, total phenolic content and total flavonoid content, whereas increasing honey concentration resulted in increase in antioxidant activity, total phenolic content and total flavonoid content. The moisture content, bulk density, water solubility index, DPPH scavenging activity, total phenolic content and total flavonoid content were 3.27%, 0.44 g cc−1, 96.67 g g−1, 17.45%, 2.54 GAE g−1 powder and 1.40 RE g−1 powder, respectively.
How do children with amelogenesis imperfecta feel about their teeth?
Authors: Parekh Susan , Almehateb Mohammad , CunnIngham Sue J.
Published: November 2013

Background

Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) is an inherited dental condition affecting enamel, which can result in significant tooth discolouration and enamel breakdown, requiring lifelong dental care. The possible impact of this condition on children and adolescents from their perspectives is not fully understood.

Aims

The aim of the study was to explore the impact of AI on children and adolescents through in‐depth interviewing. The information derived from this was then used to construct a questionnaire to distribute to a larger cohort of AI patients.

Design

This research involved semistructured in‐depth interviews with seven AI patients, and common themes and concepts were then identified using framework analysis. A questionnaire was developed based on the themes and subthemes identified, and completed by 40 AI patients at various stages of treatment.

Results

Children and adolescents with AI exhibited concerns regarding aesthetics and function. Patients also expressed a high level of concern regarding comments by other people and self‐consciousness associated with this. A small number of AI patients highlighted the effect of their dental treatment and health on their personal life.

Conclusion

The results indicate that there are marked impacts on children and adolescents as a result of AI, including aesthetics, function, and psychosocial.
Workplace bullying in the context of organisational change: the significance of pluralism
Authors: D'Cruz Premilla , Noronha Ernesto
Published: November 2013

The presence of depersonalised bullying during organisational change, highlighted through empirical research on lay‐off procedures in India's information technology sector, underscores the rhetoric of unitarist human resource management and reinforces the importance of union action and co‐worker mobilisation. The findings support the emergent view that collectivisation is the only solution to workplace bullying.
Une définition à variables multiples de l'adéquation: défis et opportunités
Authors: Brimblecombe Simon
Published: November 2013

L'adoption de la recommandation (no 202) sur les socles de protection sociale, 2012, de l'Organisation internationale du Travail montre l'importance que revêt l'extension de la couverture de la sécurité sociale au niveau mondial. Pour que l'extension de la couverture ait un maximum d'effets positifs, il est nécessaire que les prestations et les services de sécurité sociale soient fournis au plus grand nombre de personnes et couvrent le plus grand nombre de risques, mais aussi que les prestations soient adéquates. Même si cela ne va pas sans difficultés, il est possible de définir et de mesurer le niveau de couverture. En revanche, la définition du concept de «prestation adéquate» est souvent moins claire, une seule mesure – le taux de remplacement – étant généralement utilisée pour déterminer l'adéquation relative des prestations monétaires. Compte tenu des multiples objectifs des systèmes de sécurité sociale, l'utilisation d'une mesure plus large de l'adéquation, au‐delà du niveau des prestations monétaires, est non seulement plus appropriée, mais nécessaire. Dans un monde où le poids des contraintes financières n'a sans doute jamais été aussi lourd, le présent article examine l'importance de l'adéquation, en montrant pourquoi il est nécessaire de se placer dans une perspective élargie permettant de mesurer les autres aspects de la fourniture de prestations et de services. Il décrit la façon de construire un tel instrument d'analyse à variables multiples et les difficultés que cela pose. En essayant de déterminer si les autres objectifs de la fourniture de prestations sont atteints – notamment la qualité de service, les objectifs en matière d'emploi, la sécurité des prestations et l'interaction avec les parties prenantes –, cet article se propose de contribuer à élargir le débat sur la question de l'adéquation.
Self‐Assembled 3D Hierarchically Structured Gamma Alumina by Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Li Yanhui , Peng Cheng , Li Lianglong , Rao Pinggen
Published: November 2013

Self‐assembled γ‐Al2O3 with hierarchical structure was successfully obtained via thermolysis of γ‐boehmite (γ‐AlOOH) particles, which was hydrothermally derived from aluminum ammonium sulfate hydrate (NH4Al(SO4)2·12H2O), urea, poly‐glycol (PEG)‐2000, and deionized water. SEM observations indicate that the as‐synthesized γ‐AlOOH has hierarchical flower‐like structure, composing of needle‐like building blocks. After calcinations at 800°C, it converts to cubic γ‐Al2O3 with hierarchical structure retained by a topotactical process. N2 adsorption and desorption reveal that the obtained γ‐Al2O3 has a BET surface area of 101 m2/g with a narrow mesoporous size of about 13 nm and a broad macroporous‐size distributions of 200–500 nm, respectively. The as‐generated γ‐Al2O3 with hierarchical structure shows good capacities for removing Congo red from wastewater, indicating that 3D hierarchical structure has excellent adsorption ability.
Synthesis of β‐SiAlON Nanopowder by Ammonolysis of Alumina–Silica Gel
Authors: Zhang Li , Zhang Litong , Lin Zhijun , Jiang Yan , He Jing , Cai Wuji , Li Siwei
Published: November 2013

A simple method for synthesis of β‐SiAlON powder by nitridation of alumina–silica gel in ammonia was provided. Precursor was obtained from a mixture of nanosized alumina and colloidal silica. Nitridation reactions took place at 1100°C and conversion to β‐SiAlON was achieved at 1300°C for 2–3 h. The synthesized β‐SiAlON powder was nanocrystalline in size (<100 nm).
Unbalanced distribution of materials: the art of giving rise to hepatocytes from liver stem/progenitor cells
Authors: Liu Wei‐Hui , Ren Li‐Na , Chen Tao , You Nan , Liu Li‐Ye , Wang Tao , Yan Hong‐Tao , Luo Hao , Tang Li‐Jun
Published: November 2013

Liver stem/progenitor cells (LSPCs) are able to duplicate themselves and differentiate into each type of cells in the liver, including mature hepatocytes and cholangiocytes. Understanding how to accurately control the hepatic differentiation of LSPCs is a challenge in many fields from preclinical to clinical treatments. This review summarizes the recent advances made to control the hepatic differentiation of LSPCs over the last few decades. The hepatic differentiation of LSPCs is a gradual process consisting of three main steps: initiation, progression and accomplishment. The unbalanced distribution of the affecting materials in each step results in the hepatic maturation of LSPCs. As the innovative and creative works for generating hepatocytes with full functions from LSPCs are gradually accumulated, LSPC therapies will soon be a new choice for treating liver diseases.
A prospective study of heart rate and externalising behaviours in young children
Authors: Dierckx Bram , Kok Rianne , Tulen Joke H.M. , Jaddoe Vincent W. , Hofman Albert , Verhulst Frank C. , Bakermans‐Kranenburg Marian J. , van Ijzendoorn Marinus H. , Tiemeier Henning
Published: November 2013

Background

Low heart rate predicts externalising and delinquent behaviour in adults, adolescents and school‐age children. In younger children the evidence is less clear. Moreover, the specificity of the relation between the autonomic nervous system and different forms of externalising behaviour is uncertain. We investigated the longitudinal relation between resting mean heart rate and different externalising behaviours.

Methods

In 412 children of the Generation R Study, we measured resting mean heart rate at 14 months. At 3 years, child problem behaviour was assessed by the mother with the Child Behavior Checklist. In a gift delay task, we observed whether children were compliant and whether they lied about their noncompliance. The association of heart rate with behaviour was contrasted with the effect of harsh parenting.

Results

In our main analysis, we examined the association between heart rate and reported and observed child behaviour. For comparison, the association of heart rate with behaviour was contrasted with the effect of harsh parenting. Mean heart rate was positively associated with Anxious/Depressed scale scores (β = .1, 95% CI = 0.01; 0.2, p = .04), but not with Aggressive Behaviour (β = .02; 95% CI = −0.1; 0.1, p = .8) nor Attention Problem scale scores (β = .08, 95% CI = −0.3; 0.5, p = .8). We could not demonstrate an association between mean heart rate and noncompliance during the gift delay task (OR = 1.14, 95% CI = 0.9; 1.1, p = .2), but lower heart rate predicted higher odds of the child lying (OR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.3; 0.9, p = .03). In contrast, harsh parenting was associated with mother‐reported Aggressive Behaviour (β = .7, 95% CI = 0.4; 0.9, p < .001) and Attention Problems (β = .2, 95% CI = 0.1; 0.3, p < .001), but not with observed lying (OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.8; 1.4, p = .8).

Conclusions

Lower resting mean heart rate at age 14 months predicts low anxiety symptoms and higher odds of lying at age 3 years. Low resting mean heart rate may be less an indicator of early childhood aggression than of fearless behaviour.
Short‐ and long‐term effect of sitagliptin after near normalization of glycemic control with insulin in poorly controlled Japanese type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Fujisawa Keiko , Yasuda Tetsuyuki , Kaneto Hideaki , Katakami Naoto , Tsuji Mayumi , Kubo Fumiyo , Sasaki Shugo , Miyashita Kazuyuki , Naka Toyoko , Kasami Ryuuichi , Kuroda Akio , Matsuhisa Munehide , Shimomura Iichiro
Published: November 2013

Aims/Introduction

The aim of the present study was to examine the short‐ and long‐term effect of sitagliptin on glucose tolerance after near normalization of glycemic control with insulin in poorly controlled type 2 diabetic patients.

Materials and Methods

We consecutively enrolled a total of 30 type 2 diabetic patients whose glycated hemoglobin levels (National Glycohemoglobin Standardization Program) were ≥7.4%, stopped all oral antidiabetic drugs and started insulin therapy. When fasting plasma glucose levels became <140 mg/dL, we carried out the first oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). After 1‐week sitagliptin treatment (50 mg/day), the second OGTT was carried out. Furthermore, we evaluated the long‐term efficacy of sitagliptin on glucose tolerance after near normalization of glycemic control with insulin.

Results

After 1‐week sitagliptin treatment, the area under the curve of insulin was markedly increased, and the area under the curve of glucagon and glucose was markedly decreased. Duration of diabetes and insulin secretory capacity were correlated with the effect of sitagliptin. Furthermore, interestingly, near normalization of glycemic control with insulin therapy for 1–2 weeks brought out the long‐term effectiveness of sitagliptin on glucose tolerance for 24 weeks, which was not observed with other antidiabetic drugs.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that near normalization of glycemic control with insulin improves the clinical response to sitagliptin in poorly controlled type 2 diabetic patients.
Fitness costs ofCry1Fresistance in fall armyworm,Spodoptera frugiperda
Authors: Vélez A. M. , Spencer T. A. , Alves A. P. , Crespo A. L. B. , Siegfried B. D.
Published: November 2013

Transgenic corn,Zea maysL., expressing theBacillus thuringiensisBerliner (Bt) protein Cry1F has been registered forSpodoptera frugiperda(J. E. Smith) control since 2003 in theUSA. Unexpected damage to Cry1F corn was reported in 2006 in Puerto Rico, and Cry1F resistance inS. frugiperdafrom Puerto Rico was documented. The study of fitness costs associated with insect resistance toBtinsecticidal proteins is important for understanding resistance evolution and for evaluating resistance management practices used to mitigate resistance to transgenic corn. Currently, no studies have addressed the fitness costs associated with Cry1F resistance inS. frugiperda. In this study, susceptible and resistant strains with similar genetic background and their reciprocal crosses were used to estimate Cry1F resistance fitness costs. Comparisons between life‐history traits and population growth rates of homozygous susceptible, heterozygous and homozygous resistantS. frugiperdawere used to determine whether the resistance is associated with fitness costs. Major fitness costs were not apparent in either heterozygotes or homozygous resistant insects. However, there was a slight indication of hybrid vigour in the heterozygotes. Additionally, two lines in which the frequency of the resistant alleles was fixed at 0.5 were followed for seven generations, after which the frequency of resistant alleles slightly decreased in both lines. The lack of strong fitness costs associated with Cry1F resistance inS. frugiperdaindicates that initial allele frequencies may be higher than expected in field populations and will tend to remain stable in field populations in the absence of selection pressure (e.g. Puerto Rico).
Is conspecific substrate marking a long‐term external memory of previously colonized overwintering sites in Harmonia axyridis?
Authors: Durieux D. , Fassotte B. , Vanderplanck M. , Brostaux Y. , Fischer C. , Lognay G. , Haubruge E. , Verheggen F. J.
Published: November 2013

The multicoloured Asian ladybeetle, Harmonia axyridis (Pallas), aggregates inside dwellings during winters to survive the cold. This beetle uses chemical cues coming from congeners to select an overwintering site. Recent research has shown that they preferentially gather at places where conspecifics previously laid a substrate marking made up of saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons. Some authors have reported that H. axyridis colonizes the same overwintering sites from 1 year to another. Herein, the hypothesis that this substrate marking is used by H. axyridis to settle in the same aggregation sites from one winter to another was tested. To this aim, the temporal modification in the chemical profile of the hydrocarbon marking was studied by performing chromatographic analyses. After 1 year, the overall profile was modified qualitatively and quantitatively: the unsaturated hydrocarbons were no longer detected while some saturated hydrocarbons were still present in large quantities. In a behavioural assay conducted in the laboratory, the 12‐month‐old marking did not induce the aggregation of H. axyridis. This result indicates that the chemical markings left by conspecifics during a previous aggregation period in an overwintering site are not sufficient to induce the gathering of the newly arriving individuals.
Long‐term evaluation of field‐wide oriental beetle (Col., Scarabaeidae) mating disruption in blueberries using female‐mimic pheromone lures
Authors: Rodriguez‐Saona C. R. , Polk D. , Holdcraft R. , Koppenhöfer A. M.
Published: November 2013

The oriental beetle, Anomala orientalis (Waterhouse) (Col., Scarabaeidae), is the most important root‐feeding pest of blueberries and turfgrass in New Jersey, USA. Previous studies showed that mating disruption is a feasible option for oriental beetle management; however, assessing its efficiency can be challenging, and little is known on its long‐term effects. Accordingly, we conducted studies to investigate low‐dose pheromone lures equivalent to oriental beetle females (i.e. female mimics) as easy‐to‐use indicators of mating disruption success, determine the distance at which oriental beetle males respond to female‐mimic lures and assess the long‐term (3‐year) effects of mating disruption on oriental beetle populations in entire blueberry fields. Our studies showed that rubber septa baited with 0.3 μg of the oriental beetle sex pheromone (Z)‐7‐tetradecen‐2‐one attract similar numbers of males as compared with virgin females and can thus be used as a female mimic. The range of attraction of this lure was found to be also similar to virgin females and <30 m. In blueberries, mating disruption provided 87% inhibition of oriental beetle populations (trap shutdown) over a 3‐year period. Oriental beetle male captures in disrupted fields were threefold higher along the field edges than in the field interiors, indicating movement of males from nearby areas into the pheromone‐treated fields. In addition, mating disruption reduced male attraction to female‐mimic lures by 93% in all 3 years and reduced the number of larvae in sentinel potted plants in 1 of 2 years. These results show for the first time that mating disruption provides consistent long‐term field‐wide control of oriental beetle populations and that female‐mimic pheromone lures can be used as a new tool to assess oriental beetle mating disruption success.
A Comparative Study of Pioneer Entry Decisions in the United States and China
Authors: Zhao Y. Lisa , Song Michael , Parry Mark E.
Published: November 2013

According to the resource‐based view of the firm, competitive advantages arise from control and deployment of productive resources that are rare and difficult to imitate. Through early entry, pioneers can gain preferential access to key resources. However, the value of that access depends on the presence of isolating mechanisms that limit or prevent competitive imitation. Isolating mechanisms increase the desirability of early entry by lengthening the time horizon over which the firm can earn Ricardian rents on those resources. To explore these implications of the resource‐based view, this study examines the impact of isolating mechanisms on pioneer advantages by analyzing the market entry timing decisions of 209 U.S. and 302 Chinese entrepreneurs. We hypothesize that the stronger intellectual property and legal protections available in the United States are an isolating mechanism that should increase the perceived importance of differentiation and cost advantages in the United States relative to China. Consistent with this argument, we find evidence that the relationships between the number of successful first‐mover decisions and (1) perceived pioneer differentiation advantages and (2) perceived cost advantages are relatively stronger in the United States than in China. We also argue that the importance of personal relationships in China constitutes an isolating mechanism that should increase the perceived importance of preemptive pioneer advantages in China relative to the United States. Consistent with this reasoning, we find that the coefficient linking perceptions of pioneer preemptive advantages with the number of successful first‐mover decisions is significant in the Chinese sample and not in the U.S. sample, but the difference between these coefficients is not significant. These results provide support for the argument that the availability of strong IP and legal protection encourages early entry decisions by entrepreneurs because these protections enhance the pioneer's ability to build a differentiated position in the minds of target customers and secure a cost advantage over later entrants. The results also support the argument that strong personal connections and the practice of reciprocity play a key role in the success of Chinese entrepreneurs.
Outcomes of Abdominal Wall Reservoir Placement in Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Implantation: A Safe and Efficacious Alternative to the Space of Retzius
Authors: Stember Doron S. , Garber Bruce B. , Perito Paul E.
Published: November 2013

Introduction

Inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) surgery is a successful therapeutic option for men with erectile dysfunction. Traditional placement of the reservoir in the retropubic space of Retzius is associated with the rare occurrence of significant complications including bladder, bowel, and vascular injury. An alternative site, posterior to the abdominal wall musculature, has been identified as a potentially safer location for reservoir placement.

Aims

The aim of this study was to describe our technique of abdominal reservoir placement during infrapubic IPP surgery and present our outcomes data.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed our experience with abdominal reservoir placement during virgin IPP cases. Reservoirs placed anterior and posterior to transversalis fascia were analyzed separately.

Main Outcome Measure

The main outcome measures was assessment of reservoir-related complications including palpable reservoir, reservoir herniation, and injuries to bowel, bladder, or major blood vessels.

Results

There were no injuries to bowel or major blood vessels with abdominal reservoir placement posterior or anterior to the transversalis fascia in properly segregated patients.

Conclusion

Abdominal reservoir placement is a safe and simple surgical method that can be recommended for most men undergoing IPP placement. Men with a history of pelvic surgery can have the reservoir placed between the rectus abdominis musculature and transversalis fascia, while other men can have the reservoir placed between transversalis fascia and peritoneum in order to avoid a palpable reservoir. By applying this protocol, the catastrophic injuries that occur rarely with retropubic reservoir placement can be reliably avoided.
Female Sexual Dysfunction Among Egyptian Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
Authors: Elshimi Esam , Morad Wesam , Mohamad Noha Ezzat , Shebl Nashwa , Waked Imam
Published: November 2013

Introduction

Chronic hepatitis C is associated with many extrahepatic manifestations that impact and impair the quality of life. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has a high prevalence in Egypt and carries with the diagnosis many social impacts and stigmatization correlates that further impair social function. This might negatively impact patients and their sexual function. Sexuality and sexual function have not been studied well in patients with HCV, especially in women.

Aim

To investigate sexual dysfunction in Egyptian women with chronic hepatitis C.

Main Outcome Measures

Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) scores of patients with hepatitis C, both total and for individual domains, were compared with those of controls.

Methods

The self-administered FSFI questionnaire was completed by 112 sexually active female patients with chronic hepatitis C without liver cirrhosis prior to initiation of therapy by pegylated interferon and ribavirin. Their results were compared to those of 225 age- and socioeconomic class-matched sexually active healthy females.

Results

Significantly more patients than controls had questionnaire scores below the threshold of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) (79% vs. 21%, P < 0.05), and the mean total score for the patients was significantly lower than that for controls (19.54 ± 6.2 vs. 28.43 ± 4.9 P < 0.001). The patients' scores in all domains of the questionnaire were significantly lower than those of the controls.

Conclusion

Chronic hepatitis C negatively impacts female sexual function, affecting all domains of the sex cycle; this warrants further studies and needs to be addressed as part of a comprehensive therapy plan to improve patients' quality of life.
Behavioral responses to snake cues by three species of Neotropical rodents
Authors: Wasko D. K. , Bonilla F. , Sasa M.
Published: November 2013

The ability to assess and avoid predation risk is thought to be a major determinant of behavior for small mammals. We assessed the antipredator responses of three Neotropical rodent species (Heteromys desmarestianus, Peromyscus mexicanus and Melanomys caliginosus) to cues (feces or actual presence) of the snake Bothrops asper. We investigated whether rodents avoided entering or spent less time in snake‐cued areas using an experimental arena, and whether rodents reduced foraging efforts (measured by giving‐up density) in snake‐cued areas under laboratory, semi‐natural and field conditions. P. mexicanus and M. caliginosus did not demonstrate any snake avoidance, and did not reduce foraging efforts under any conditions. H. desmarestianus significantly avoided live snakes only at very short distances (<20 cm), and reduced foraging efforts in the presence of snakes only under certain experimental conditions. These results are in contrast to many studies demonstrating antipredator behavior by small mammals in temperate and desert ecosystems in response to cues of predators, including snakes, and were influenced by overall low statistical power. This discrepancy may also be explained by the complexity of tropical forest systems, as rodents must assess a myriad of sensory cues and balance risk from multiple predator groups that require different avoidance strategies. An ambush‐hunting snake such as B. asper may also face strong selective pressure to avoid detection by its mammalian prey.
Development of a simple and rapid method for the specific identification of organism causing anthrax by slide latex agglutination
Authors: Sumithra T.G. , Chaturvedi V.K. , Gupta P.K. , Sunita S.C. , Rai A.K. , Kutty M.V.H. , Laxmi U. , Murugan M.S.
Published: November 2013

A specific latex agglutination test (LAT) based on anti-PA (protective antigen) antibodies having detection limit of 5 × 104 formalin treated Bacillus anthracis cells or 110 ng of PA was optimized in this study. The optimized LAT could detect anthrax toxin in whole blood as well as in serum from the animal models of anthrax infection. The protocol is a simple and promising method for the specific detection of bacteria causing anthrax under routine laboratory, as well as in field, conditions without any special equipments or expertise.

Significance and Impact of the Study

The article presents the first report of a latex agglutination test for the specific identification of the cultures of bacteria causing anthrax. As the test is targeting one of anthrax toxic protein (PA), this can also be used to determine virulence of suspected organisms. At the same time, the same LAT can be used directly on whole blood or sera samples under field conditions for the specific diagnosis of anthrax.