bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Litterfall and Element Fluxes in a Natural Hardwood Forest and a Chinese‐fir Plantation Experiencing Frequent Typhoon Disturbance in Central Taiwan
Authors: Wang Hsueh‐Ching , Wang Su‐Fen , Lin Kuo‐Chuan , Lee Shaner Pei‐Jen , Lin Teng‐Chiu
Published: June 2013

Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata) is the most important forest plantation species in subtropical Asia and is rapidly replacing natural forests. Such land‐use change may affect ecosystem nutrient cycling through changes in litterfall nutrient flux. Tropical cyclones often cause pulses of litterfall. Previous studies, however, have mostly focused on the effects of a single cyclone with little effort examining the effects of repeated cyclones. We examined litterfall in a natural hardwood forest and a Chinese‐fir plantation in central Taiwan experiencing an average of one typhoon per year. The natural hardwood forest had 54 percent higher annual litterfall (11,400 kg/ha/yr) than the Chinese‐fir plantation (7400 kg/ha/yr). Four typhoon‐affected months (typhoon period) contributed to approximately 60 percent of the litterfall and litterfall element flux in the natural hardwood forest and 80 percent in the Chinese‐fir plantation, with contributions from individual typhoons varied by more than twofold. Litterfall N and P concentrations were significantly higher in typhoon period than in non‐typhoon period, likely the result of limited retranslocation. Precipitation was a better predictor of quantity of typhoon‐associated litterfall than wind velocity. Both types of forests in southeastern China beyond the reach of typhoons have litterfall peaks in the dry season. In contrast, we measured higher litterfall during the typhoon period than during the dry season, suggesting that in regions with frequent cyclones, cyclones drive temporal variation of litterfall. Global climate change is affecting the frequency and intensity of cyclones; therefore, knowledge of typhoon‐litterfall dynamics is indispensable for understanding the effects of climate change on ecosystem nutrient cycling.
Predictive Mapping of Species Richness and Plant Species' Distributions of a Peruvian Fog Oasis Along an Altitudinal Gradient
Authors: Muenchow Jannes , Bräuning Achim , Rodríguez Eric Frank , von Wehrden Henrik
Published: June 2013

Tropical arid to semi‐arid ecosystems are nearly as diverse as more humid forests and occupy large parts of the tropics. In comparison, however, they are vastly understudied. For instance, fog precipitation alone supports a unique vegetation formation, locally termed lomas, on coastal mountains in the Peruvian desert. To effectively protect these highly endemic and threatened ecosystems, we must increase our understanding of their diversity patterns in relation to environmental factors. Consequently, we recorded all vascular species from 100 random 4 × 4 m plots on the fog‐exposed southern slope of the mountain Mongón. We used topographic and remotely sensed covariates in statistical models to generate spatial predictions of alpha diversity and plant species' distribution probabilities. Altitude was the most important predictor in all models and may represent fog moisture levels. Other significant covariates in the models most likely refer also to water availability but on a finer spatial scale. Additionally, model‐based clustering revealed five altitudinal vegetation zones. This study contributes to a better spatial understanding of the biodiversity and spatial arrangement of vegetation belts of the largely unknown but highly unique lomas formations. Furthermore, mapping species richness and plant species' distributions could support a long‐needed lomas strategic conservation scheme.
MAG‐EPA resolves lung inflammation in an allergic model of asthma
Authors: Morin C. , Fortin S. , Cantin A. M. , Rousseau É.
Published: June 2013

Background

Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by airways hyperresponsiveness, inflammation and airways remodelling involving reversible bronchial obstruction. Omega‐3 fatty acids and their derivatives are known to reduce inflammation in several tissues including lung.

Objectives

The effects of eicosapentaenoic acid monoacylglyceride (MAG‐EPA), a newly synthesized EPA derivative, were determined on the resolution of lung inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness in an in vivo model of allergic asthma.

Methods

Ovalbumin (OVA)‐sensitized guinea‐pigs were treated or not with MAG‐EPA administered per os. Isometric tension measurements, histological analyses, homogenate preparation for Western blot experiments or total RNA extraction for RT‐PCR were performed to assess the effect of MAG‐EPA treatments.

Results

Mechanical tension measurements revealed that oral MAG‐EPA treatments reduced methacholine (MCh)‐induced bronchial hyperresponsiveness in OVA‐sensitized guinea‐pigs. Moreover, MAG‐EPA treatments also decreased Ca2+ hypersensitivity of bronchial smooth muscle. Histological analyses and leucocyte counts in bronchoalveolar lavages revealed that oral MAG‐EPA treatments led to less inflammatory cell recruitment in the lung of OVA‐sensitized guinea‐pigs when compared with lungs from control animals. Results also revealed a reduction in mucin production and MUC5AC expression level in OVA‐sensitized animals treated with MAG‐EPA. Following MAG‐EPA treatments, the transcript levels of pro‐inflammatory markers such as IL‐5, eotaxin, IL‐13 and IL‐4 were markedly reduced. Moreover, per os MAG‐EPA administrations reduced COX2 over‐expression in OVA‐sensitized animals.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

We demonstrate that MAG‐EPA reduces airway hyperresponsiveness and lung inflammation in OVA‐sensitized animals, a finding consistent with a decrease in IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐13, COX‐2 and MUC5AC expression levels in the lung. The present data suggest that MAG‐EPA represents a new potential therapeutic strategy for resolving inflammation in allergic asthma.
High frequencies of activated B cells and T follicular helper cells are correlated with disease activity in patients with new-onset rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Wang J , Shan Y , Jiang Z , Feng J , Li C , Ma L , Jiang Y
Published: June 2013

This study aimed to examine the frequency of different subsets of circulating B and T follicular helper (Tfh) cells in patients with new-onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and following standard therapies. Twenty-five RA patients and 15 healthy controls (HC) were recruited for characterizing the frequency of CD27+, immunoglobulin (Ig)D+, CD86+, CD95+, Toll-like receptor (TLR)-9+ B cells and inducible T cell co-stimulator (ICOS) and programmed death 1 (PD-1)-positive Tfh cells and the level of serum interleukin (IL)-21. The potential correlation between the frequency of different subsets of B and Tfh cells and the values of clinical measures in RA patients was analysed. In comparison with HC, significantly higher percentages of circulating IgD+CD27−CD19+ naive B, CD86+CD19+ and CD95+CD19+ activated B, CD3+CD4+CXCR5+, CD3+CD4+CXCR5+ICOS+, CD3+CD4+CXCR5+PD-1+ and CD3+CD4+CXCR5+ICOS+PD-1+ Tfh cells but lower IgD+CD27+CD19+ preswitch memory B cells were detected, accompanied by significantly higher levels of serum IL-21 in the RA patients. Furthermore, the percentages of CD95+ B cells were correlated positively with the frequency of PD-1+ Tfh cells, but negatively with ICOS+ Tfh cells. The percentages of CD86+ B cells and ICOS+ Tfh cells were correlated positively with the values of disease activity score 28 (DAS28). Following the drug therapies for 1 month, the percentages of CD86+ B and PD-1+ Tfh cells were reduced significantly in the drug-responding patients. Our data suggest that activated B and Tfh cells may contribute to the pathogenesis of RA and the frequency of activated B and Tfh cells may be used as biomarkers for evaluating the therapeutic responses of individual patients with RA.
Close collaboration between local and specialist multidisciplinary teams allows ‘fast‐tracking’ of patients with colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Vasudevan S. P. , Cresswell A. B. , Wright J. M. , Rees M. , Stiff D. , Wordley A. , Motson R. W.
Published: June 2013

Aim

The ongoing evolution of treatment strategies for colorectal liver metastases necessarily requires all patients to be reviewed at some point by the specialist hepatobiliary unit. This process can be streamlined through close collaboration with the local colorectal multidisciplinary team (MDT). The study was performed to see if a local colorectal MDT was able to make a correct decision regarding potential operability of liver metastases, by comparing its decision with that of two hepatobiliary surgeons in our referral centre.

Method

CT scans of 38 patients found to have liver metastases from colorectal cancer were anonymized and sent to two hepatobiliary surgeons in our cancer network. They classified them into three categories: R, resectable; C, chemotherapy to downsize then consider resection; U, unresectable. The results were then compared with the opinion of our colorectal MDT, made before the referral to the hepatobiliary surgeons.

Results

The two independent hepatobiliary surgeons agreed with each other on 35/38 (92%) of CT scans. Our colorectal MDT agreed with the hepatobiliary surgeons in 36/38 (95%) of cases. Only 9 (32%) of the 28 patients deemed suitable on the CT scan by the hepatobiliary surgeons actually had a liver resection.

Conclusion

The results show that a local colorectal MDT is able to make an accurate assessment of the operability of liver metastases. Patients deemed to be inoperable by the colorectal MDT could be ‘fast‐tracked’ to the hepatobiliary MDT with review of imaging only, saving time and resources by avoiding referral of patients who are not suitable for liver resection.
Multicolony tracking reveals potential threats to little auks wintering in the North Atlantic from marine pollution and shrinking sea ice cover
Authors: Fort Jérôme , Moe Børge , Strøm Hallvard , Grémillet David , Welcker Jorg , Schultner Jannik , Jerstad Kurt , Johansen Kasper L. , Phillips Richard A. , Mosbech Anders
Published: June 2013

Aim

Extensive development of human activities in combination with ocean warming is rapidly modifying marine habitats in the Arctic and North Atlantic regions. To understand the potential impacts on marine biodiversity, there is an urgent need to determine distributions and habitat preferences of potentially vulnerable species and to identify sensitive hotspots that might require particular protection. Our aims were to track one of the most abundant seabirds of the world, the little auk (Alle alle), to provide a large, meta‐population scale overview of its non‐breeding distribution and to document potential threats to this species from human activities and other environmental changes.

Location

Arctic North Atlantic.

Methods

Using light‐level geolocators, we investigated the 2010/11 non‐breeding distribution of 65 little auks from four major colonies distributed throughout the Arctic North Atlantic. Bird distribution during the moulting, wintering and pre‐breeding periods was compared with (1) the extent of the marginal ice zone and (2) the areas covered by the main shipping lanes and oil and gas activity licences.

Results

We identify several hotspots for this species, including two key areas located in the Greenland Sea and off Newfoundland. Crucially, we show that some of these hotspots overlap extensively with areas of intensive human activities, including oil and gas extraction and shipping. As little auks, which spend the major part of their time on the sea surface, are extremely vulnerable to marine pollution, our results emphasize the risk associated with the projected expansion of these activities.

Main conclusions

We conclude that management of further human enterprises in the Arctic needs to be based on more thorough risk assessment, requiring a substantial improvement in our knowledge of the distribution of sensitive species.
Appropriateness of full‐, partial‐ and no‐dispersal scenarios in climate change impact modelling
Authors: Bateman Brooke L. , Murphy Helen T. , Reside April E. , Mokany Karel , VanDerWal Jeremy
Published: June 2013

Aim

Species distribution models (SDMs) generally use correlative relationships between the species location and the associated environment to project the species potential distribution under climate change. While projecting a future suitable climatic space is relatively simple using SDMs, predicting a species ability to occupy that space relies on understanding dispersal capacity; a lack of knowledge about species‐specific dispersal ability, varying geographical contexts and technical constraints of simple SDMs has limited the consideration of dispersal in most studies. We review the current treatment of dispersal in SDM studies addressing the effects of climate change and explore how incorporating ‘partial‐dispersal’ scenarios could lead to more realistic projections of species distributions into the future.

Location

Global.

Methods

We consider the implications for projected distributions of incorporating full‐ and no‐dispersal scenarios in SDMs and identify a range of methods and their associated information needs for implementing partial‐dispersal scenarios.

Results

While simplistic and easy to implement, full‐ and no‐dispersal scenarios are only realistic in a few situations. Although implementing partial‐dispersal scenarios may require information that is lacking for many species, we argue that even relatively simple partial‐dispersal models, with fairly basic knowledge needs, improve projections of altered distributions under climate change. More complex models, using more sophisticated modelling approaches, have been tested in a few cases and provide robust projections.

Main Conclusions

While climate change SDM outputs have proved useful, we highlight that careful selection of dispersal scenarios, relevant to the particular questions being addressed, is necessary for appropriate interpretation of the model outputs when projecting into novel environments (e.g. future climates). A number of methods have been developed for incorporating partial‐dispersal scenarios in SDMs; however, the data and computation requirements currently limit their application to large numbers of species, highlighting the need for other techniques and generic user‐friendly modelling platforms.
Biodiversity in saline coastal lagoons: patterns of distribution and human impacts on sponge and ascidian assemblages
Authors: Barnes P. B. , Roberts D. E. , Davis A. R.
Published: June 2013

Aim

Estuaries are common focal points for industry and development, but often little is known of their biology or ecology, particularly for sessile taxa. We sought to examine how size and opening regime of shallow saline coastal lakes altered patterns of diversity and abundance for a suite of epifaunal invertebrates. We also sought to determine how these patterns were affected by the degree of lake modification by humans.

Location

We sampled 10 coastal barrier lakes of a range of sizes, opening regimes and degrees of modification in south‐eastern Australia.

Methods

We quantified the diversity and abundance of sponges and ascidians in transects and undertook timed searches for these fauna at multiple locations within each coastal lake; placing the data in a hypothesis testing framework.

Results

Eighteen species of sponge, most of which appear to be new to science, and six species of ascidian were found among the 10 lakes we examined. All sponges and most ascidians were extremely patchily distributed among the lakes. Few species were widespread, with most restricted to one or two lakes. Diversity was largest in lakes mostly open to the sea and large in size. Diversity and abundance were smaller in highly modified lakes.

Main Conclusions

We suggest that sponge assemblages in these lakes consist of a combination of species largely restricted in distribution to lakes, and marine species that are at their limits of distribution. In contrast, ascidian assemblages were dominated by species that were more widespread. Conservation of biodiversity in these systems will rely heavily on effective management, which will in turn rely on a sound scientific understanding of natural processes; this will require the management of water quality through protection of catchments. The control of opening regimes should consider the ecological consequences rather than being purely based on ad hoc and reactive management.
Early‐onset epilepsy, cognition, and behaviour: continuity and challenge
Authors: Cormack Francesca
Published: June 2013

Please also see the reply to this letter by 964–965.
An investigation into the relationship between vigabatrin, movement disorders, and brain magnetic resonance imaging abnormalities in children with infantile spasms
Authors: Fong Choong YI , Osborne John P , Edwards Stuart W , Hemingway Cheryl , Hancock Eleanor , Johnson Anthony L , Kennedy Colin R , Kneen Rachel , Likeman Marcus , Lux Andrew L , Mordekar Santosh R , Murugan Velayutham , Newton Richard W , Pike Michael , Quinn Michael , Spinty Stefan , Vassallo Grace , Verity Christopher M , Whitney Andrea , O'Callaghan Finbar J K
Published: June 2013

Aim

We aimed to investigate the relationship between movement disorders, changes on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and vigabatrin therapy in children with infantile spasms.

Method

Retrospective review and brain MRI analysis of children enrolled in the International Collaborative Infantile Spasms Study (ICISS) who developed a movement disorder on vigabatrin therapy. Comparisons were made with controls within ICISS who had no movement disorder.

Results

Ten of 124 infants had a movement disorder and in eight it had developed on vigabatrin therapy. Two had a movement disorder that resolved on dose‐reduction of vigabatrin, one had improvement on withdrawing vigabatrin, two had resolution without any dose change, and in three it persisted despite vigabatrin withdrawal. The typical brain MRI changes associated with vigabatrin therapy were noted in two infants. Ten control infants were identified. Typical MRI changes noted with vigabatrin were noted in three controls.

Interpretation

It is possible that in two out of eight cases, vigabatrin was associated with the development of a movement disorder. In six out of eight cases a causal relationship was less plausible. The majority of infants treated with vigabatrin did not develop a movement disorder. MRI changes associated with vigabatrin do not appear to be specifically related to the movement disorder.
Progressive resistance training and mobility‐related function in young people with cerebral palsy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Taylor Nicholas F , Dodd Karen J , Baker Richard J , Willoughby Kate , Thomason Pam , Graham H Kerr
Published: June 2013

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate whether individualized resistance training improves the physical mobility of young people with cerebral palsy (CP).

Method

Forty‐eight participants with spastic diplegic CP (26 males, 22 females; mean age 18y 1mo, SD 1y 11mo) classified as level II or III on the Gross Motor Function Classification System were allocated randomly to progressive resistance training or usual‐care control. Resistance training was completed twice weekly for 12 weeks at a community gymnasium under the supervision of a physiotherapist. Exercises were based on instrumented gait analysis and targeted muscles contributing to walking difficulties. Outcomes at 12 weeks and 24 weeks included objective measures of mobility (6‐min walk test, instrumented gait analysis, and Gross Motor Function Measure dimensions D and E), participant‐rated measures of mobility (Functional Mobility Scale and Functional Assessment Questionnaire), and muscle performance.

Results

The strength of targeted muscles increased by 27% (95% CI 8–46%) compared with control group. There were no between‐group differences in any objective measure of mobility at 12 weeks (6‐min walk test: mean difference 0.1m; 95% CI −21 to 21m) or at 24 weeks. Participant‐rated mobility improved (Functional Mobility Scale at 5m: mean 0.6 units; 95% CI 0.1–1.1 units; Functional Assessment Questionnaire: 0.8 units; 95% CI 0.1–1.6 units) compared with control group at 12 weeks.

Interpretation

Individualized progressive resistance training increased strength in adolescents and young adults with spastic diplegic CP. Despite participant‐rated benefits, the increased strength did not result in objective improvements in mobility.
Muscle volume alterations in spastic muscles immediately following botulinum toxin type‐A treatment in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Williams Sîan A , Reid Siobhan , Elliott Catherine , Shipman Peter , Valentine Jane
Published: June 2013

Aim

With evidence for an atrophic effect of botulinum toxin type A (BoNT‐A) documented in typically developing muscles, this study investigated the immediate morphological alterations of muscles in children with cerebral palsy (CP) after BoNT‐A treatment.

Method

Fifteen children (10 males, five females; age range 5–11y, mean age 8y 5mo, SD 1y 10mo) with spastic diplegic CP [Gross Motor Function Classification System Levels I (n=9) and II (n=6)] receiving BoNT‐A injections for spasticity management were included. None of the children was a first‐time receiver of BoNT‐A. Magnetic resonance imaging and Mimics software assessed muscle volume, timed 2 weeks before and 5 weeks after injection. All participants received BoNT‐A bilaterally to the gastrocnemius muscle, and five participants also received BoNT‐A bilaterally to the medial hamstring muscles. Functional assessment measures used were the 6‐Minute Walk Test (6‐MWT), the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and hand‐held dynamometry.

Results

Whilst total muscle group volume of the injected muscle group remained unchanged, a 4.47% decrease in the injected gastrocnemius muscle volume (p=0.01) and a 3.96% increase in soleus muscle volume (p=0.02) was evident following BoNT‐A. There were no statistically significant changes in function after BoNT‐A as assessed by the TUG. There was also no statistically significant change in distance covered in the 6‐MWT. Muscle strength, as assessed using hand‐held dynamometry was also not statistically different after BoNT‐A treatment.

Interpretation

Muscle volume decreases were observed in the injected muscle (gastrocnemius), with synergistic muscle hypertrophy that appeared to compensate for this decrement. The 4% to 5% decrease in the volume of BoNT‐A injected muscles are not dramatic in comparison to reports in recent animal studies, and are a positive indication for BoNT‐A, particularly as it also did not negatively alter function.
Informative value of canker morphology on the presence or absence of virus infection in chestnut blight cankers
Authors: Bryner S. F. , Sotirovski K. , Akilli S. , Risteski M. , Perlerou C. , Rigling D.
Published: June 2013

Chestnut blight destroyed the native chestnut forests in North America and also severely affected the European chestnut trees after its introduction in the 20th century. The ascomycete fungus Cryphonectria parasitica is responsible for this serious disease and causes lethal bark cankers on susceptible chestnut trees. In Europe, however, an infection of C. parasitica with Cryphonectria hypovirus 1 (CHV‐1) causes hypovirulence in C. parasitica and reduces the severity of the disease. Hypovirulence biologically controls chestnut blight in many regions to date. In this study, our goal was to determine morphological canker characteristics that are indicative of virus presence or absence in C. parasitica. We investigated 677 chestnut blight cankers from seven different geographic locations across Europe. For each canker, we assessed canker length, stem encircling, canker depth, presence of sporulation, canker activity and virus infection. We statistically analysed the informative value of these morphological characteristics for the presence or absence of CHV‐1. However, we did not find reliable indicators. Our logistic regression analysis revealed that virus infection of C. parasitica is not clearly related to canker morphology. This implies that fungal isolations from chestnut blight cankers and assessments in the laboratory are required to determine infection with CHV‐1 unequivocally.
Outcome of horses with synovial structure involvement following solar foot penetrations in four UK veterinary hospitals: 95 cases
Authors: Findley J. A. , Pinchbeck G. L. , Milner P. I. , Bladon B. M. , Boswell J. , Mair T. S. , Suthers J. M. , Singer E. R.
Published: June 2013

Reasons for performing study

The factors associated with outcome following solar foot penetration involving synovial structures treated using endoscopic lavage have not been described in the UK population.

Objectives

To provide descriptive data on horses with synovial contamination or sepsis following solar penetration in 4 UK equine referral hospitals and to identify specific factors associated with the outcome.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Data were collected from 4 veterinary hospitals. Follow‐up data were obtained via a telephone questionnaire. Two multivariable logistic regression models were generated. Model 1 included all horses with synovial contamination following foot penetration undergoing surgical treatment, with the outcome variable being euthanasia during hospitalisation. Model 2 included all horses surviving anaesthesia, with the outcome variable being failure to return to pre‐injury athletic function.

Results

Ninety‐five horses were included. Overall, 56% of horses survived to discharge and 36% of horses returned to pre‐injury athletic function. Model 1 included penetration of the central frog sulcus (odds ratio [OR] 10, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.9–51.8), concurrent distal phalanx involvement (OR 32, 95% CI 2.6–101.9), increasing days to presentation (OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.0–1.3) and hospital. Model 2 included increasing days to presentation (OR 1.1, 95% CI 1.1–1.6), breed (OR 32, 95% CI 2.2–135.4), more than one surgery (OR 5.6, 95% CI 1.0–32.7) and hospital.

Conclusions and potential relevance

Synovial involvement following solar foot penetration has a guarded prognosis for survival to discharge and a poor prognosis for return to pre‐injury athletic function. Penetration of the central sulcus of the frog and distal phalanx involvement are associated with euthanasia during hospitalisation. Delayed referral and hospitalisation are associated with both euthanasia and failure to return to pre‐injury athletic function. Breed and more than one surgery are associated with failure to return to pre‐injury athletic function. These data may assist veterinary surgeons and owners to make evidence‐based decisions when managing cases with synovial involvement following solar foot penetration.
Potential mesenchymal stem cell therapy for skin diseases
Authors: Li Xiaoguang , Hamada Takahiro , Ohata Chika , Furumura Minao , Hashimoto Takashi
Published: June 2013

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are non‐haematopoietic cells that reside in most tissues including adult bone marrow. MSCs have recently been extensively studied and used for clinical therapies, including skin wound healing. However, there are still many questions to be answered. In the viewpoint entitled ‘Mesenchymal stem cell therapy in skin: why and what for?’, Dr. Khosrotehrani provided a comprehensive overview for MSC properties and current progresses on clinical applications for various skin conditions. This viewpoint is therefore very helpful for both dermatologists and basic skin researchers to understand stem cells researches.
Novel inhibitory effect of the antidiabetic drug voglibose on melanogenesis
Authors: Bin Bum‐Ho , Seo Juyeon , Yang Seung Ha , Lee Eunkyung , Choi Hyunjung , Kim Kyu‐Han , Cho Eun‐Gyung , Lee Tae Ryong
Published: June 2013

Overproduction of melanin can lead to medical disorders such as postinflammatory melanoderma and melasma. Therefore, developing antimelanogenic agents is important for both medical and cosmetic purposes. In this report, we demonstrated for the first time that the antidiabetic drug voglibose is a potent antimelanogenic agent. Voglibose is a representative antidiabetic drug possessing inhibitory activity towards human α‐glucosidase; it blocked the proper N‐glycan modification of tyrosinase, resulting in a dramatic reduction of the tyrosinase protein level by altering its stability and subsequently decreasing melanin production. Acarbose, another antihyperglycaemic drug that has a lower inhibitory effect on human intracellular α‐glucosidase compared with voglibose, did not cause any changes in either the N‐glycan modification of tyrosinase or the tyrosinase protein level, indicating that voglibose was the most efficient antimelanogenic agent among the widely used antihyperglycaemic agents. Considering that voglibose was originally selected from the valiolamine derivatives in a screen for an oral antidiabetic drug with a strong inhibitory activity towards intestinal α‐glucosidase and low cell permeability, we propose an alternative strategy for screening compounds from valiolamine derivatives that show high inhibitory activity towards human intracellular α‐glucosidases and high cell permeability, with the goal of obtaining antimelanogenic agents that are effective inside the cells.
Optical coherence tomography for presurgical margin assessment of non‐melanoma skin cancer – a practical approach
Authors: Alawi Seyed Arash , Kuck Monika , Wahrlich Caroline , Batz Sebastian , McKenzie Gordon , Fluhr Joachim W. , Lademann Juergen , Ulrich Martina
Published: June 2013

In the clinical setting, optical coherence tomography (OCT) is applicable for the non‐invasive diagnosis of skin cancer and may in particular be used for margin definition prior to excision. In this regard, OCT may improve the success rate of removing tumor lesions more effectively, preventing repetitive excision, which may subsequently result in smaller excisions. In this study, we have aimed to evaluate the applicability of OCT for in vivo presurgical margin assessment of non‐melanocytic skin tumors (NMSC) and to describe the feasibility of different scanning techniques. A total number of 18 patients planned for excision of lesions suspicious of NMSC were included in this study. Based on OCT, we defined the specific tumor margins on 19 lesions preoperatively using different scanning modalities. Sixty‐one margin points and five complete tumor margins were analysed on 18 patients with a total of 19 lesions including 63% basal cell carcinoma (BCC) (n = 12), 16% (n = 3) squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and 21% of other types of skin tumors (n = 4) were classified. In 84% of the cases (n = 16), the OCT‐defined lateral margins correctly indicated complete removal of the tumor. The surgical margins chosen by the surgeon never fell below the OCT‐defined margin. Regarding the techniques of marginal definition, punctual tumor border scan in the perpendicular direction, with an extension of free‐run scans for unsure cases can hardly be recommended. This study shows that suspected NMSC can effectively be confirmed, and furthermore, resection margin can be minimized under OCT control without reducing the rate of complete removal.
Terrestrial support of pelagic consumers: patterns and variability revealed by a multilake study
Authors: Wilkinson Grace M. , Carpenter Stephen R. , Cole Jonathan J. , Pace Michael L. , Yang Carol
Published: June 2013

Lake food webs can be supported by primary production from within the lake, organic matter imported from the catchment or some mixture of these two sources. Generalisations about food‐web subsidies to lake ecosystems are often based on data from only a few ecosystems and therefore do not consider the potential variability of subsidies among diverse ecosystems in a landscape.

We measured the variation among lake ecosystems in terrestrial (allochthonous) utilisation by pelagic consumers and developed models to describe the variability. Stable isotope ratios of hydrogen and carbon were measured for Chaoborus spp. and crustacean zooplankton taxa in 40 lakes to quantify consumer allochthonous resource use (allochthony).

The median fraction of consumer allochthony estimated using a two‐source Bayesian mixing model varied between 4 and 82% (mean among all lakes = 36%) for Chaoborus sp. among lakes and between 1 and 76% in a more limited sample of crustacean zooplankton consumers. The degree of allochthonous resource use increased linearly with the availability of allochthonous resources.

Terrestrial support of Chaoborus was correlated (using best fitting relationships) with covariates for lake organic matter sources including dissolved inorganic carbon, total phosphorus, chlorophyll α, colour and catchment area. However, the most parsimonious model was an inverse relationship between lake surface area and consumer allochthony, indicating that allochthonous subsidies are more important in smaller than larger systems. Given the preponderance of small waterbodies, allochthonous subsidies are important in a large number of lake ecosystems.
Dissociation of rugose‐dependent short‐term memory component from memory consolidation in Drosophila
Authors: Zhao J. , Lu Y. , Zhao X. , Yao X. , Shuai Y. , Huang C. , Wang L. , Jeong S. H. , Zhong Y.
Published: June 2013

Extensive investigations show several molecular and neuroanatomical mechanisms underlying short‐lived and long‐lasting memory in Drosophila. At the molecular level, the genetic pathway of memory formation, which was obtained through mutant research, seems to occur sequentially. So far, studies of Drosophila mutants appear to support the idea that mutants defective in short‐term memory (STM) are always associated with long‐term memory (LTM) impairment. At the neuroanatomical level, distinct memory traces are partially independently distributed. However, whether memory phase dissociation also exists at the molecular level remains unclear. Here, we report on molecular separation of STM and consolidated memory through genetic dissection of rugose mutants. Mutants in the rugose gene, which encodes an evolutionarily conserved A‐kinase anchor protein, show immediate memory defects as assayed through aversive olfactory conditioning. Intriguingly, two well‐defined consolidated memory components, anesthesia‐resistant memory and protein synthesis‐dependent LTM, are both normal in spite of the defective immediate memory after 10‐session massed and spaced training. Moreover, rugose genetically interacts with cyclic AMP‐protein kinase A signaling during STM formation. Considering our previous study that AKAP Yu specifically participates in LTM formation, these results suggest that there exists a molecular level of memory phase dissociation with distinct AKAPs in Drosophila.
Emerging roles for MEF2 transcription factors in memory
Authors: Rashid A. J. , Cole C. J. , Josselyn S. A.
Published: June 2013

In the brain, transcription factors are critical for linking external stimuli to protein production, enabling neurons and neuronal networks to adapt to the ever‐changing landscape. Gene transcription and protein synthesis are also vital for the formation of long‐term memory. Members of the myocyte enhancer factor‐2 (MEF2) family of transcription factors have a well‐characterized role in the development of a variety of tissues, but their role in the adult brain is only beginning to be understood. Recent evidence indicates that MEF2 regulates the structural and synaptic plasticity underlying memory formation. However, in stark contrast to most other transcription factors implicated in memory, MEF2‐mediated transcription constrains (rather than promotes) memory formation. Here, we review recent data examining the role of MEF2 in adult memory formation in rodents.
ΔJunD overexpression in the nucleus accumbens prevents sexual reward in female Syrian hamsters
Authors: Been L. E. , Hedges V. L. , Vialou V. , Nestler E. J. , Meisel R. L.
Published: June 2013

Motivated behaviors, including sexual experience, activate the mesolimbic dopamine system and produce long‐lasting molecular and structural changes in the nucleus accumbens. The transcription factor ΔFosB is hypothesized to partly mediate this experience‐dependent plasticity. Previous research in our laboratory has demonstrated that overexpressing ΔFosB in the nucleus accumbens of female Syrian hamsters augments the ability of sexual experience to cause the formation of a conditioned place preference. It is unknown, however, whether ΔFosB‐mediated transcription in the nucleus accumbens is required for the behavioral consequences of sexual reward. We therefore used an adeno‐associated virus to overexpress ΔJunD, a dominant negative binding partner of ΔFosB that decreases ΔFosB‐mediated transcription by competitively heterodimerizing with ΔFosB before binding at promotor regions on target genes, in the nucleus accumbens. We found that overexpression of ΔJunD prevented the formation of a conditioned place preference following repeated sexual experiences. These data, when coupled with our previous findings, suggest that ΔFosB is both necessary and sufficient for behavioral plasticity following sexual experience. Furthermore, these results contribute to an important and growing body of literature demonstrating the necessity of endogenous ΔFosB expression in the nucleus accumbens for adaptive responding to naturally rewarding stimuli.
MicroRNA expression profiling in blood from fragile X‐associated tremor/ataxia syndrome patients
Authors: Alvarez‐Mora M. I. , Rodriguez‐Revenga L. , Madrigal I. , Torres‐Silva F. , Mateu‐Huertas E. , Lizano E. , Friedländer M. R. , Martí E. , Estivill X. , Milà M.
Published: June 2013

Fragile X‐associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) is a late‐onset neurodegenerative disorder associated with FMR1 gene premutation alleles (55–200 CGG repeats). Fragile X‐associated tremor/ataxia syndrome clinical core features include action tremor, gait ataxia, cognitive deficits progressing to dementia, and frequently parkinsonism. Although the pathogenic molecular mechanism of FXTAS is not completely understood, the restriction of the phenotype to the FMR1 premutation range has given rise to a model based on a RNA toxic gain‐of‐function. Since the identification of the first microRNAs (miRNAs) and their role in normal development, several studies have associated them with neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson, Alzheimer and Huntington diseases, suggesting that they play a key role in brain development, as well as in its morphogenesis. Herein, we present the characterization of miRNA expression profiles in FXTAS male patients using deep sequencing‐based technologies and microarray technology. Deep sequencing analysis evidenced 83 miRNAs that were significantly deregulated whereas microarray analysis showed 31. When comparing these results, 14 miRNAs were found deregulated in FXTAS patients. MiR‐424 and miR‐574‐3p showed significant fold change adjusted P‐values in both platforms in FXTAS patients. MiR‐424 has been founded substantially and specifically enriched in human cerebral cortical white matter of Alzheimer disease patients, which, together with cerebral atrophy, is a prominent imaging finding in individuals with FXTAS. The study provides the first systematic evidence of differential miRNA expression changes in FXTAS blood samples. Although further studies are necessary to better characterize the miRNA function in FXTAS disorder, our results suggest that they might contribute to its pathogenesis.
Topical 4% nicotinamide vs. 1% clindamycin in moderate inflammatory acne vulgaris
Authors: Khodaeiani Effat , Fouladi Rohollah Fadaei , Amirnia Mehdi , Saeidi Majid , Karimi Elham Razagh
Published: June 2013

Abstract

Nicotinamide and clindamycin gels are two popular topical medications for acne vulgaris. This study aimed to compare efficacy of the topical 4% nicotinamide and 1% clindamycin gels in these patients. In this randomized, double‐blind clinical trial, patients with moderate inflammatory facial acne vulgaris were randomly allocated to receive either topical 4% nicotinamide (n = 40) or 1% clindamycin gels (n = 40) twice daily. In each group, they were further categorized in two subgroups with oily and non‐oily types of facial skin. The Cook's acne grade was determined at baseline and at weeks 4 and 8 post treatment. Acne grade decreased from an average of 5.93 ± 0.83 at baseline to 4.03 ± 1.33 at week 4 and 2.08 ± 1.59 at week 8 in nicotinamide receivers, and from an average of 5.70 ± 0.94 at baseline to 3.85 ± 1.66 at week 4 and 2.03 ± 1.53 at week 8 in the clindamycin group (within‐group P < 0.001, between‐group P > 0.05). Comparing with each other, nicotinamide and clindamycin gels were significantly more efficacious in oily and non‐oily skin types, respectively. No major side effect was encountered by any patient. Skin type is a significant factor in choosing between topical nicotinamide and clindamycin in patients with acne vulgaris.
The evaluation of two automated soluble fibrin assays for use in the routine hospital laboratory
Authors: Westerlund E. , Woodhams B. J. , Eintrei J. , Söderblom L. , Antovic J. P.
Published: June 2013

Introduction

The soluble fibrin monomer (sFM) assay, like the D‐dimer (DDi) assay, has the potential to be used both as an aid in the diagnosis of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and as a thrombotic marker. It differs from DDi in that it is a much earlier produced fragment produced only by thrombin action on fibrinogen, whereas DDi is a much later produced fragment formed by plasmin cleavage of cross‐linked fibrin.

Methods

In our study, we compared two commercially available automated sFM assays in the routine hospital setting using samples obtained from the general hospital ward and the emergency room. The results obtained with the two automated assays (Stago LIA sFM assays and the LPIA‐Iatro SF assay) were compared with each other and with the results obtained using the routine semiquantitative hemagglutination assay.

Results

The study showed that both automated assays were comparable with each other. No patient sample previously classified as positive would be missed, but with the higher sensitivity in the automated tests, more samples are positive.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we suggest that both automated tests are suitable for routine laboratory use. Both assays had the advantage over the hemagglutination assay in that previously frozen samples could be used, and the assays are easier and quicker to perform. The LIA sFM Stago has slightly better sensitivity but has a tendency to lower specificity than the Iatro SF test.
KIR‐HLA‐A and B alleles of the Bw4 epitope against HIV infection in discordant heterosexual couples in Chaco Argentina
Authors: Habegger de Sorrentino Alicia , Sinchi Jessica L. , Marinic Karina , López Rosana , Iliovich Ernesto
Published: June 2013

Activating and inhibitory killer immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIR) and their ligands HLA‐Bw4 (loci A and B) were studied by way of establishing whether they can contribute to protection against HIV‐1 infection in highly exposed and persistently seronegative (HESN) patients. Twenty‐three HIV‐1 serodiscordant heterosexual couples, 100 HIV‐1+ patients and 200 healthy individuals were included in this retrospective case–control study. HLA typing was performed by means of PCR followed by sequence‐specific oligonucleotide probe reverse hybridization. KIR3DL1 and KIR3DS1 were studied by PCR sequence‐specific primers. The frequency of KIR3DS1(3DS1/3DL1)‐Bw4 combination was significantly higher in HESN patients versus the discordant couples (P = 0·0003) and HIV‐1+ patients (P = 0·0001). Conversely, the KIR3DL1/KIR3DL1 homozygosity was significantly decreased in HESN patients versus the discordant couples (P = 0·00003), and HIV‐1+ patients (P = 0·00066). The frequency of HLA‐A*32 and HLA‐B*44 was higher in HESN versus their discordant couples (P = 0·009; P = 0·049), and HIV‐1+ patients (P = 0·00002; P = 0·0001). This had greater significance in combination with KIR3DS1 (3DS1/3DL1). KIR3DS1(3DS1/3DL1) could have a greater effect on protection against HIV‐1 infection in HESN patients when bound to a specific HLA allele, in this case HLA‐A*32 and HLA‐B*44, both Bw4 alleles. The differences probably arise both in the HLA alleles and in the subtypes of KIR receptors depending on the ethnic group studied.
Challenges in pressure ulcer prevention
Authors: Dealey Carol , Brindle C. Tod , Black Joyce , Alves Paulo , Santamaria Nick , Call Evan , Clark Michael
Published: June 2013

Although this article is a stand‐alone article, it sets the scene for later articles in this issue. Pressure ulcers are considered to be a largely preventable problem, and yet despite extensive training and the expenditure of a large amount of resources, they persist. This article reviews the current understanding of pressure ulcer aetiology: pressure, shear and microclimate. Individual risk factors for pressure ulceration also need to be understood in order to determine the level of risk of an individual. Such an assessment is essential to determine appropriate prevention strategies. The main prevention strategies in terms of reducing pressure and shear and managing microclimate are studied in this article. The problem of pressure ulceration related to medical devices is also considered as most of the standard prevention strategies are not effective in preventing this type of damage. Finally, the possibility of using dressings as an additional preventive strategy is raised along with the question: is there enough evidence to support their use?
The effect of alternating and biphasic currents on humans' wound healing: a literature review
Authors: Martínez‐Rodríguez Alicia , Bello Olalla , Fraiz Manuel , Martinez‐Bustelo Sandra
Published: June 2013

Although different types of currents, including bidirectional currents, have been used to promote healing, there is neither a summary about their effects nor consensus on best parameters to be used. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of current evidence on the effectiveness of bidirectional electrical stimulation on wound healing in accordance with the parameters used. Relevant articles were selected following a search of Medline, Cochrane, Embase, CINAHL, and PEDro for English, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, or French articles published between 1980 and 2011. Ten trials and four case‐series were found that deal with pressure ulcers, diabetic ulcers, venous ulcers, skin flaps, and amputation. Eight trials were of low‐quality. Five of ten controlled trials found a statistically significant difference on wound healing, and another four trials found positive trends. Both of the two skin flap trials, one of two diabetic trials, and two of five pressure ulcer trials found a significant difference in bidirectional stimulated groups. Both TENS and NMES types of currents were used, but many parameters were not specified. In general, bidirectional currents appear to increase wound healing rates and reduce size of wounds, above all in skin flaps. However, there is a lack of well‐designed studies on biphasic and alternating stimulation, and there is a need for improvement in description of parameters and in uniformity of nomenclature.
Leiomyoma Cutis and Leiomyosarcoma: A 10‐Year Study and a Short Review
Authors: ORELLANA‐DÍAZ ORLANDO , HERNÁNDEZ‐PÉREZ ENRIQUE
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Thirty‐five cases of leiomyoma cutis (LMC) and 3 cases of leiomyosarcoma (LMS) were studied from the files of the Department of Pathology of the National Medical Center in El Salvador over a 10‐year period. The LMC incidence was 0.04% and the LMS incidence was 0.003% (1 LMC for every 2,438.6 biopsies and 1 LMS for every 28,499.6 biopsies); 74.28% of the LMC occurred in females and 25.7% in males, with a ratio of 2.8 to 1. The average age was 32.1 in a range of 3 to 80 years. The higher frequency occurred in persons in their forties; 28.5% appeared on the upper limbs, 22.8% on the face, 20% on the thorax, 20% on the lower limbs, 2.8% in the perineal region, and 5.7% were of an unknown localization. In all cases, a solitary tumor was present. Microscopically, 88.5% corresponded to the pilar type, 8.5% were angioleiomyomas, and 3% were dartoic myomas. LMS occurred in 2 women and 1 man, affecting cheek, thigh, and back, and in 1 case, osseous metastasis occurred.