bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Review: Breast Development in Trans Women Receiving Cross-Sex Hormones
Authors: Wierckx Katrien , Gooren Louis , T'Sjoen Guy
Published: March 2014

Introduction

In trans women (male-to-female transsexual persons), cross-sex hormone therapy is administered to induce feminization. Breast development is an important part of feminization for most trans women.

Aim

The aim of this study is to assess the effect of cross-sex hormone therapy on breast development in adult trans women. Additionally, we aimed to investigate the benefit or harm of administration of progestogens on breast development.

Methods

A review of the literature in Embase, Medline, The Cochrane Library, PsycINFO databases, PubMed, and Web of Knowledge until January 2014.

Main Outcome Measures

Effects of cross-sex hormone therapy and progestogens on breast development in trans women.

Results

Only few studies with low quality of evidence addressed these topics. The available evidence suggests that breast development is insufficient for the majority of trans women and that type and dosage of hormonal therapy seem not to have an important role on final breast size.

Conclusions

Our knowledge concerning the natural history and effects of different cross-sex hormone therapies on breast development in trans women is extremely sparse and based on low quality of evidence. Current evidence does not provide evidence that progestogens enhance breast development in trans women. Neither do they prove the absence of such an effect. This prevents us from drawing any firm conclusion at this moment and demonstrates the need for further research to clarify these important clinical questions.
Effects of Cross-Sex Hormone Treatment on Cortical Thickness in Transsexual Individuals
Authors: Zubiaurre-Elorza Leire , Junque Carme , Gómez-Gil Esther , Guillamon Antonio
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Untreated transsexuals have a brain cortical phenotype. Cross-sex hormone treatments are used to masculinize or feminize the bodies of female-to-male (FtMs) or male-to-female (MtFs) transsexuals, respectively.

Aim

A longitudinal design was conducted to investigate the effects of treatments on brain cortical thickness (CTh) of FtMs and MtFs.

Methods

This study investigated 15 female-to-male (FtMs) and 14 male-to-female (MtFs) transsexuals prior and during at least six months of cross-sex hormone therapy treatment. Brain MRI imaging was performed in a 3-Tesla TIM-TRIO Siemens scanner. T1-weighted images were analyzed with FreeSurfer software to obtain CTh as well as subcortical volumetric values.

Main Outcome Measures

Changes in brain CTh thickness and volumetry associated to changes in hormonal levels due to cross-sex hormone therapy.

Results

After testosterone treatment, FtMs showed increases of CTh bilaterally in the postcentral gyrus and unilaterally in the inferior parietal, lingual, pericalcarine, and supramarginal areas of the left hemisphere and the rostral middle frontal and the cuneus region of the right hemisphere. There was a significant positive correlation between the serum testosterone and free testosterone index changes and CTh changes in parieto-temporo-occipital regions. In contrast, MtFs, after estrogens and antiandrogens treatment, showed a general decrease in CTh and subcortical volumetric measures and an increase in the volume of the ventricles.

Conclusions

Testosterone therapy increases CTh in FtMs. Thickening in cortical regions is associated to changes in testosterone levels. Estrogens and antiandrogens therapy in MtFs is associated to a decrease in the CTh that consequently induces an enlargement of the ventricular system.
Comparing bark thickness: testing methods with bark–stem data from two South African fire‐prone biomes
Authors: Hempson Gareth P. , Midgley Jeremy J. , Lawes Michael J. , Vickers Karen J. , Kruger Laurence M.
Published: March 2014

Aims

Bark thickness–stem diameter relationships are non‐linear above a stem diameter threshold in many woody species, which makes relative bark thickness measures dependent on the range of stem diameters that are sampled. This influences the appropriateness of different methods for comparing fire responses of woody plants across studies. Here we develop a framework for bark thickness comparisons by evaluating relative bark thickness estimates and bark thickness predictions obtained from linear and curved models fitted to raw and log‐transformed bark–stem data. We use this framework to contrast bark thickness among fynbos and savanna plant functional groups.

Location

Fynbos (17 species) and savanna (21 species) systems in South Africa.

Methods

The linear subset of bark–stem data was identified using a three‐step procedure. Linear regressions (with and without an intercept) and curved models (allometric and modified exponential models) were fitted to the linear subset and complete raw bark–stem data set, respectively. In addition, linear regression models were fitted to the log‐transformed complete bark–stem data set. Regression slopes and bark thickness predictions obtained from these different approaches were compared, to determine which method provides the most robust metric for comparing bark thickness. Bark thickness was compared among fynbos resprouter guilds and acacias from low‐ and high‐fire savannas.

Results

The slope of the regression model fitted to the linear subset of raw bark–stem data provides a reliable metric for general comparisons of relative bark thickness. Bark thickness predictions from the curved and log models were comparable at 20‐cm stem diameter, but the log model underestimated bark thickness at 5 cm for certain species. Relative bark thickness was significantly higher in: (1) fynbos fire resisters and epicormic resprouters than in non‐resprouters; and (2) acacias from high‐ vs low‐fire savannas.

Conclusions

The slope of the regression model fitted to the linear subset of raw bark–stem data is a useful metric for bark thickness comparisons across studies, and compares favourably with bark thickness predictions derived from models fitted to the complete bark–stem data set. Fynbos and savanna trends support the proposition that relative bark thickness reflects differences in woody plant responses to fire and indicate the modal fire regime of ecosystems.
Fish in space: local variations of home range and habitat use of a stream‐dwelling fish in relation to predator density
Authors: Lucas M. C. , Bubb D. H.
Published: March 2014

A key response of animals to local environmental variation is altered use of space, but studies simultaneously examining local variation in habitat use and space use are uncommon. We predicted that elevated abundance of avian predators would result in grayling Thymallus thymallus, a stream‐dwelling fish, using mesohabitats containing more cover, superimposed on seasonal changes in use of key resources (and hence space use) for functions such as reproduction. Using radio‐telemetry, the pattern of space and habitat use by 40 wild grayling was determined in neighbouring stream sections in relation to season and predator density. Grayling used different habitats between seasons, but displayed similar patterns of habitat use in adjacent sections. Although patterns of habitat use were stable between stream sections, space use was not. In two winter periods, grayling ranged significantly more widely where there were significantly greater densities of avian predators, especially cormorant, Phalacrocorax carbo. No such differences were apparent in summer when cormorants were absent, but experimental manipulation of predator densities was not possible, so results are correlative. Support for a predator effect is provided from significantly greater rates of injury, associated with avian beak scar marks, present on grayling from the section with highest avian predator densities, compared with adjacent sections with lower levels of avian predators. Unlike many studies of fish behaviour to elevated predation risk, in which fish make greater use of ‘refuge’ habitat, grayling exhibited wide‐ranging behaviour and high activity, possibly reflecting avoidance behaviour.
Cabozantinib reverses multidrug resistance of human hepatoma HepG2/adr cells by modulating the function of P‐glycoprotein
Authors: Xiang Qing‐feng , Zhang Dong‐mei , Wang Jing‐nan , Zhang Hong‐wu , Zheng Zhe‐yu , Yu Da‐cheng , Li Ying‐jie , Xu Jun , Chen Ya‐jin , Shang Chang‐zhen
Published: March 2014

Background & Aims

Cabozantinib, a small‐molecule multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has entered into a phase III clinical trial for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study assessed the mechanistic effect of cabozantinib on the reversal of P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp)‐mediated multidrug resistance (MDR).

Methods

CCK‐8 assays and tumour xenografts were used to investigate the reversal of MDR in vitro and in vivo respectively. Substrate retention assays were evaluated by fluorescence microscope and flow cytometry. Western blotting was used to detect protein expression levels. mRNA expression was determined by qPCR. The ATPase activity of P‐gp was investigated using Pgp‐Glo™ assay systems. The binding mechanism of cabozantinib to P‐gp at the molecular level was evaluated using docking analysis.

Results

Cabozantinib enhanced the cytotoxicity of P‐gp substrate drugs in HepG2/adr and HEK293‐MDR1 cells but had no effect on non‐P‐gp substrates. In addition, cabozantinib increased the accumulation of P‐gp substrates in HepG2/adr cells but had no effect in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, cabozantinib did not alter the expression of P‐gp mRNA or protein but did stimulate the activity of P‐gp ATPase. The docking study indicated that cabozantinib and verapamil may partially share a binding site on P‐gp. The reversal concentrations of cabozantinib did not affect the expression of MET, AKT and ERK1/2. Significantly, cabozantinib increased the inhibitory efficacy of doxorubicin in P‐gp‐overexpressing HepG2/adr cell xenografts in nude mice.

Conclusion

Cabozantinib reverses P‐gp‐mediated MDR by directly inhibiting the efflux function of P‐gp, indicating that cabozantinib may help to reverse P‐gp‐mediated MDR in HCC and other cancer chemotherapy.
Mesh size effects on mesozooplankton community structure in a semi‐enclosed coastal area and surrounding sea (South Adriatic Sea)
Authors: Miloslavić Marijana , Lučić Davor , Gangai Barbara , Onofri Ivona
Published: March 2014

This paper presents the results from a study in which two commonly used plankton mesh sizes (125 and 200 μm) were compared. We examined the influence of the mesh size effects on zooplankton community structure by comparing abundance, biomass and seasonal cycles of mesozooplankton. The study was performed at five stations (four in the marine lakes ‘Veliko jezero’ and ‘Malo jezero’, and one in the open sea in front of the lakes) during a 1‐year period (February 2008–February 2009). The estimated differences obtained from the catch results of the different mesh nets were more pronounced in semi‐enclosed coastal areas, such as lakes, than in the oligotrophic conditions prevailing at the station in the front of the lakes. Total zooplankton abundance with the 125‐μm net was significantly greater than with the 200‐μm net. The differences were mainly due to the loss of small‐sized copepods in the samples collected with the 200‐μm net. Excepting copepods, major losses were recorded for Limacina spp. and Bivalvia larvae. Abundance losses through the coarser net reflect the community structure and seasonal abundance pattern, which is most pronounced during the summer. Diversity indices and total dry weight were less influenced by mesh selection. The retention efficiency of the 125‐μm mesh size must be taken into account to provide a reliable description of the mesozooplankton community structure in coastal and especially eutrophicated areas. The 200‐μm mesh net could be recommended for oligotrophic systems due to the catch of larger calanoid species that contribute to overall zooplankton biomass, and because it allows a comparison with historical datasets.
A Novel Method for In Vivo Visualization of the Microcirculation of the Mandibular Periosteum in Rats
Authors: Varga Renáta , Janovszky Ágnes , Szabó Andrea , Garab Dénes , Bodnár Dóra , Boros Mihály , Neunzehn Jörg , Wiesmann Hans‐Peter , Piffkó József
Published: March 2014

Objective

The periosteum plays an important role in bone physiology, but observation of its microcirculation is greatly limited by methodological constraints at certain anatomical locations. This study was conducted to develop a microsurgical procedure which provides access to the mandibular periosteum in rats.

Methods

Comparisons of the microcirculatory characteristics with those of the tibial periosteum were performed to confirm the functional integrity of the microvasculature. The mandibular periosteum was reached between the facial muscles and the anterior surface of the superficial masseter muscle at the external surface of the mandibular corpus; the tibial periosteum was prepared by dissecting the covering muscles at the anteromedial surface. Intravital fluorescence microscopy was used to assess the leukocyte–endothelial interactions and the RBCV in the tibial and mandibular periosteum. Both structures were also visualized through OPS and fluorescence CLSM.

Results

The microcirculatory variables in the mandibular periosteum proved similar to those in the tibia, indicating that no microcirculatory failure resulted from the exposure technique.

Conclusion

This novel surgical approach provides simple access to the mandibular periosteum of the rat, offering an excellent opportunity for investigations of microcirculatory manifestations of dentoalveolar and maxillofacial diseases.
Potential role of skeletal muscle glucose metabolism on the regulation of insulin secretion
Authors: Mizgier M. L. , Casas M. , Contreras‐Ferrat A. , Llanos P. , Galgani J. E.
Published: March 2014

Pancreatic beta cells sense glucose flux and release as much insulin as required in order to maintain glycaemia within a narrow range. Insulin secretion is regulated by many factors including glucose, incretins, and sympathetic and parasympathetic tones among other physiological factors. To identify the mechanisms linking obesity‐related insulin resistance with impaired insulin secretion represents a central challenge. Recently, it has been argued that a crosstalk between skeletal muscle and the pancreas may regulate insulin secretion. Considering that skeletal muscle is the largest organ in non‐obese subjects and a major site of insulin‐ and exercise‐stimulated glucose disposal, it appears plausible that muscle might interact with the pancreas and modulate insulin secretion for appropriate peripheral intracellular glucose utilization. There is growing evidence that muscle can secrete so‐called myokines that can have auto/para/endocrine actions. Although it is unclear in which direction they act, interleukin‐6 seems to be a possible muscle‐derived candidate protein mediating such inter‐organ communication. We herein review some of the putative skeletal muscle‐derived factors mediating this interaction. In addition, the evidence coming from in vitro, animal and human studies that support such inter‐organ crosstalk is thoroughly discussed.
Natal habitat effects drive density—dependent scaling of dispersal decisions
Authors: Van Allen Benjamin G. , Bhavsar Preeya
Published: March 2014

The dispersal behavior of a species is critical for the stability and persistence of its populations across a landscape. How population density affects dispersal decisions is important for predicting these dynamics, as the form of density‐dependent dispersal influences the stability and persistence of populations. Natal habitat experience often has strong impacts on individual dispersal behavior as well, but its influence on density‐dependent dispersal behaviors remains unexplored. Here we address this conceptual gap in two experiments separately examining habitat selection and emigration from recently colonized patches for two species of flour beetle Tribolium sp. We found that interactions between the quality of habitat experienced during natal development and current habitat for dispersal capable adults can strongly affect the form of density dependence, including reversing the direction of nonlinearities (accelerating to decelerating), or even negating the influence of population density for individual dispersal decisions. Across heterogeneous landscapes, where individuals from different populations may experience different natal habitats, this altering of density‐dependent relationships is predicted by theory to fundamentally influence regional population dynamics. Our results indicate that species which occur across heterogeneous environments, such as during conservation reintroductions, or as invasive species spread, have much potential for natal experience to interact with density dependence and influence local and regional population dynamics.
What do relatives experience when supporting someone in early psychosis?
Authors: Wainwright Laura D. , Glentworth David , Haddock Gillian , Bentley Ros , Lobban Fiona
Published: March 2014

Objectives

In the United Kingdom (UK), the government has set out priorities to support relatives and carers. Despite this, many relatives of people experiencing psychosis continue to feel unsupported by mental health services. This may be due to lack of funding, high caseloads for mental health professionals, or due to a lack of understanding of what relatives experience as a result of their family member's psychosis. This research aimed to explore relatives’ experiences of supporting a relative in early psychosis.

Design

Thematic analysis was used to conduct an in‐depth study of relatives’ experiences of supporting a family member in early psychosis.

Methods

Eligible individuals were recruited via local National Health Service Early Intervention Teams and other carer support agencies. Four focus groups were conducted, each with a range of five to seven participants.

Results

Four key themes ‘reflecting relatives’ understanding and management of psychosis were identified: ‘Psychosis from the relatives’ perspective’; ‘Relatives’ fight with the mental health ‘system’; ‘Is anybody listening? Does anyone understand?’; and ‘Relatives’ coping’. Clinical implications of these themes are discussed.

Conclusions

This study has clear implications for improvement in how relatives are supported in the United Kingdom, such as; clearer guidance for staff about confidentiality, treating relatives as partners in care and providing better quality information for relatives.

Practitioner points

Continue to improve the Care Plan Approach process to include relatives as partners in care.

Information available about psychosis needs to be clear and, where possible, clarify the processes and protocols by which services operate and how to access appropriate help.

Move away from simplistic rules about confidentiality and formalise procedures to allow relatives and carers access to the information they need, without impeding service users’ rights. For example, providing additional training for professionals such as Rethink's ‘Carers and Confidentiality’ online resource (http://www.carersandconfidentiality.org.uk/).

Improved support, supervision and training are needed for staff to deal with relatives’ distress and the impact of psychosis.

Relatives’ experiences of services is more positive in specialist Early Interventions Services for psychosis, than in other health service teams.
Transgenic alteration of ethylene biosynthesis increases grain yield in maize under field drought‐stress conditions
Authors: Habben Jeffrey E. , Bao Xiaoming , Bate Nicholas J. , DeBruin Jason L. , Dolan Dennis , Hasegawa Darren , Helentjaris Timothy G. , Lafitte Renee H. , Lovan Nina , Mo Hua , Reimann Kellie , Schussler Jeffrey R.
Published: March 2014

A transgenic gene‐silencing approach was used to modulate the levels of ethylene biosynthesis in maize (Zea mays L.) and determine its effect on grain yield under drought stress in a comprehensive set of field trials. Commercially relevant transgenic events were created with down‐regulated ACC synthases (ACSs), enzymes that catalyse the rate‐limiting step in ethylene biosynthesis. These events had ethylene emission levels reduced approximately 50% compared with nontransgenic nulls. Multiple, independent transgenic hybrids and controls were tested in field trials at managed drought‐stress and rain‐fed locations throughout the US. Analysis of yield data indicated that transgenic events had significantly increased grain yield over the null comparators, with the best event having a 0.58 Mg/ha (9.3 bushel/acre) increase after a flowering period drought stress. A (genotype × transgene) × environment interaction existed among the events, highlighting the need to better understand the context in which the down‐regulation of ACSs functions in maize. Analysis of secondary traits showed that there was a consistent decrease in the anthesis‐silking interval and a concomitant increase in kernel number/ear in transgene‐positive events versus nulls. Selected events were also field tested under a low‐nitrogen treatment, and the best event was found to have a significant 0.44 Mg/ha (7.1 bushel/acre) yield increase. This set of extensive field evaluations demonstrated that down‐regulating the ethylene biosynthetic pathway can improve the grain yield of maize under abiotic stress conditions.
Ectopic expression of GmPAP3 enhances salt tolerance in rice by alleviating oxidative damage
Authors: Deng Lixi , Chen Fen , Jiang Liping , Lam Hon‐Ming , Xiao Guoying
Published: March 2014

GmPAP3, a purple acid phosphatase from soybean (Glycine max), was previously shown to alleviate salt stress in BY‐2 cells and Arabidopsis thaliana by reducing oxidative damage. To make use of GmPAP3 for crop improvement, we investigated whether the protective function of GmPAP3 is persistent in rice. Compared with the untransformed wild type, the transgenic rice plants exhibited enhanced germination rate, longer shoots and roots, and higher survival rate under salt stress, when compared to the untransformed control. In addition, the transgenic plants also showed increased activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), proline content, water content and chlorophyll content, but decreased electrolyte leakage and malondialdehyde content in leaves. These results indicate that the expression of GmPAP3 could be used to enhance salt tolerance in rice.
Evaluation of electrocardiographic parameters for early diagnosis of autonomic dysfunction in children and adolescents with type‐1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Uysal Fahrettin , Ozboyaci Evren , Bostan Ozlem , Saglam Halil , Semizel Evren , Cil Ergun
Published: March 2014

Background

The aim of this study was to identify the sensitivity of electrocardiogram (ECG) in early diagnosis of cardiac autonomic function disorder in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

A total of 150 children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus were enrolled between June 2009 and June 2010, as well as 100 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy control children. Twelve‐lead ECG was done in all cases and heart rate, QT and QTc interval, dispersion of P wave (Pd), and of QT (QTd) and QTc interval (QTcd) were measured. The clinical and demographic features such as age, gender, duration of follow up and level of HbA1c and fasting glucose were obtained and the effects of these parameters on ECG measurements were investigated.

Results

The mean age of the patients and controls was 11.61 ± 3.72 years and 10.92 ± 3.2 years, respectively. QT and QTc interval and QTcd interval were significantly higher in diabetic children compared to healthy controls but these ECG findings were not associated with the duration of diabetes or glycemic state. Pd was significantly higher in the diabetic patients with HbA1c >7.5% compared to control, and this was also found in patients that were followed up >1 year.

Conclusions

Cardiac autonomic function disorder, which is one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality, may emerge in the course of type 1 diabetes mellitus. It can be diagnosed on ECG even when the patients are asymptomatic.
Bifidobacterium and enteral feeding in preterm infants: Cluster‐randomized trial
Authors: Totsu Satsuki , Yamasaki Chika , Terahara Masaki , Uchiyama Atsushi , Kusuda Satoshi ,   Probiotics Study Group in Japan
Published: March 2014

Background

This study evaluated the benefit of Bifidobacterium bifidum OLB6378 (B. bifidum) in very low‐birthweight (VLBW) infants (birthweight <1500 g) for the acceleration of enteral feeding.

Methods

A cluster‐randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial was conducted in 19 hospitals, divided into two groups: the B group (n = 10 hospitals; B. bifidum given to infants within 48 h of birth) and the P group (n = 9 hospitals; infants received a placebo). The primary outcome was establishment of enteral feeding after birth, defined as the postnatal day at which enteral feeding exceeded 100 mL/(kg/day). Secondary outcomes were defined as incidence of morbidity and somatic growth before discharge.

Results

Overall, 283 VLBW infants were enrolled in the study: B group, n = 153; and P group, n = 130. Enteral feeding was established within 21 days after birth in 233 infants, of whom 119 received B. bifidum and 114 received placebo until their bodyweight reached 2000 g. Enteral feeding was established significantly earlier in the B group, at 11.0 ± 3.6 days versus 12.1 ± 3.8days in P group (P < 0.05). Infant growth during the stay in the neonatal intensive care unit was not different between groups, but the incidence of late‐onset sepsis among all enrolled infants was significantly lower in the B group (3.9%, 6/153) than in the P group (10.0%, 13/130; P < 0.05). No differences were observed in the incidence of other adverse outcomes including mortality.

Conclusions

B. bifidum in VLBW infants accelerated the establishment of enteral feeding after birth without increasing the incidence of adverse effects.
Enhanced Efficacy of Photodynamic Therapy via a Sequential Targeting Protocol
Authors: Kessel David , Reiners John J.
Published: March 2014

This study was designed to examine determinants of the discovery that low‐dose lysosomal photodamage (lyso‐PDT) could potentiate the efficacy of subsequent low‐dose mitochondrial photodamage (mito‐PDT). The chlorin NPe6 and the benzoporphyrin derivative (BPD) were used to separately target lysosomes and mitochondria, respectively, in murine hepatoma cells. Lyso‐PDT (LD5 conditions) followed by mito‐PDT (LD15 conditions) enhanced the loss of the mitochondrial membrane potential, activation of procaspases‐3/7 and photokilling. Reversing the sequence was less effective. The optimal sequence did not enhance reactive oxygen species formation above that obtained with low‐dose mito‐PDT. In contrast, alkalinization of lysosomes with bafilomycin also enhanced low‐dose mito‐PDT photokilling, but via a different pathway. This involves redistribution of iron from lysosomes to mitochondria leading to enhanced hydroxyl radical formation, effects not observed after the sequential procedure. Moreover, Ru360, an inhibitor of mitochondrial calcium and iron uptake, partially suppressed the ability of bafilomycin to enhance mito‐PDT photokilling without affecting the enhanced efficacy of the sequential protocol. We conclude that sequential PDT protocol promotes PDT efficacy by a process not involving iron translocation, but via promotion of the pro‐apoptotic signal that derives from mitochondrial photodamage.
Thermal requirements and population dynamics of root‐knot nematodes on cucumber and yield losses under protected cultivation
Authors: Giné A. , López‐Gómez M. , Vela M. D. , Ornat C. , Talavera M. , Verdejo‐Lucas S. , Sorribas F. J.
Published: March 2014

Several studies were carried out to determine (i) thermal requirements for development, egg production and emergence of juveniles, and completion of the life cycle of Meloidogyne incognita and Meloidogyne javanica on cucumber, (ii) the maximum multiplication rate and the equilibrium density of root‐knot nematodes on cucumber and yield losses in pot and plastic greenhouse experiments, and (iii) the relationships between relative leaf chlorophyll content (RLCC) and relative cucumber dry top weight biomass (RDTWB) in relation to increasing nematode densities at planting (Pi) in pot experiments. Thermal requirements of M. incognita and M. javanica on cucumber did not differ, irrespective of the biological stage. In the pot experiments, M. javanica completed one generation. The maximum multiplication rate (a) was 833, and the equilibrium density (E) varied according to the effective inoculum densities. The relationship between RDTWB and Pi fitted the Seinhorst damage function model. The RLCC value at 40 or 50 days post‐inoculation also fitted the damage model and was related to RDTWB. In greenhouse experiments, conducted from 2009 to 2012, M. incognita completed three generations. The values for a and E were 1147 and 625 second stage juveniles (J2) per 250 cm3 soil, respectively. The tolerance limit was below zero, and the minimum relative yield ranged from 0·12 to 0·34.
Fusion of sensor data for the detection and differentiation of plant diseases in cucumber
Authors: Berdugo C. A. , Zito R. , Paulus S. , Mahlein A.‐K.
Published: March 2014

The development of plant diseases is associated with biophysical and biochemical changes in host plants. Various sensor methods have been used and assessed as alternative diagnostic tools under greenhouse conditions. Changes in photosynthetic activity, spectral reflectance and transpiration rate of diseased leaves, inoculated with Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV), and the powdery mildew fungus Sphaerotheca fuliginea were assessed by the use of non‐invasive sensors during disease development. Spatiotemporal changes in leaf temperature related to transpiration were visualized by digital infrared thermography. The maximum temperature difference within a leaf was an appropriate parameter to differentiate between healthy and diseased plants. The photosynthetic activity of healthy and diseased cucumber plants varied as measured by chlorophyll fluorescence and compared to the actual chlorophyll content. Hyperspectral imaging data were analysed using spectral vegetation indices. The results from this study confirm that each pathogen has a characteristic influence on the physiology and vitality of cucumber plants, which can be measured by a combination of non‐invasive sensors. Whereas thermography and chlorophyll fluorescence are unspecific indicators for plant diseases, hyperspectral imaging offers the potential for an identification of plant diseases. In a sensor data fusion approach, an early detection of each pathogen was possible by discriminant analysis. Although it still needs to be validated under real conditions, the combination of information from different sensors seems to be a promising tool.
Sexual reproduction increases the possibility that Phytophthora capsici will develop resistance to dimethomorph in China
Authors: Bi Y. , Hu J. , Cui X. , Shao J. , Lu X. , Meng Q. , Liu X.
Published: March 2014

A total of 1511 isolates of Phytophthora capsici were collected from farms with no history of exposure to the carboxylic acid amide (CAA) fungicides in 32 provinces in China during 2006 to 2013. All 1511 isolates were assayed for mating type and 403 were assayed for sensitivity to dimethomorph (DMM) and metalaxyl. The DMM EC50 values ranged from 0·126 to 0·339 μg mL−1. Both A1 and A2 mating types were detected on the same farms in four provinces and with a 1:1 ratio. Most isolates were sensitive to metalaxyl but a few exhibited intermediate resistance or resistance to metalaxyl. The segregation of DMM resistance and sensitivity among 337 progeny obtained from hybridization or self‐crossing in vitro indicated that the resistance of P. capsici to DMM is controlled by two dominant genes. Eighteen progeny that were derived from hybridization differed in DMM sensitivity and in fitness. Some progeny were as fit as parental isolates. Given the distribution of mating types and therefore the potential for sexual reproduction, the control of resistance by two dominant genes, and the fitness of hybrid progeny, the risk of P. capsici populations developing DMM resistance in China is substantial.
European Union Timber Regulation: Is It Legal?
Authors: Fishman Akiva , Obidzinski Krystof
Published: March 2014

The recent entry into force of the European Union (EU) Timber Regulation completes the EU's anti‐illegal logging policy framework – the most comprehensive legislative effort to combat illegal logging in the world. The Regulation prohibits the import of timber to the European market that violates applicable laws of the harvest country, and requires that importers conduct due diligence to mitigate the risk that their inventories contain illegal timber. Despite this strong stance, the Regulation's ability to reduce the incidence of timber illegality depends on its ability to withstand challenges under international trade law. No case yet decided by the World Trade Organization's dispute bodies has considered the implications of trade restrictions built on foreign definitions of legality. An analysis of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade and of relevant trade and environment cases reveals a possibility that the EU Timber Regulation may constitute an illegal trade barrier.
Logics of action and models of capitalism: Explaining bottom‐up non‐liberal change
Authors: Etienne Julien , Schnyder Gerhard
Published: March 2014

Recent institutionalist scholarship has theorized the liberalization or “disorganization” of capitalism as the result of shifts in economic actors' “logic of action” towards opportunism. Little attention has been given to the reverse possibility that shifts in economic actors' “logic of action” away from opportunism might contribute to “embedding” or “organizing” capitalism. This paper builds on recent scholarship to theorize this scenario and then demonstrate its empirical validity with an historical institutionalist study of the emergence of such a “non‐liberal” institution in Switzerland in 1961. The theoretical framework links three “logics of action” – opportunism, enlightened self‐interest and strong solidarity – to Höpner's typology of capitalist institutions – organized, coordinated, and liberal. It theorizes the interactions between these logics and the social mechanism – goal signaling – that can explain a shift from one logic of action to another, potentially leading to change from one type of institution to another.
Validating a verbal autopsy tool to assess pre‐hospital trauma mortality burden in a resource‐poor setting
Authors: Qureshi Javeria S. , Samuel Jonathan C. , Mulima Gift , Kakoulides Socrates , Cairns Bruce , Charles Anthony G.
Published: March 2014

Objectives

To present the validation of a verbal autopsy (VA) tool using inpatient deaths in order to ultimately assess the burden of adult pre‐hospital trauma mortality in Lilongwe, Malawi.

Methods

A WHO VA tool was administered at the Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) morgue in Lilongwe to family members of inpatient deceased. Two physicians assigned cause of death as ‘trauma’ or ‘non‐trauma’ as well as a standard VA cause of death based on the VA tool. These assignments were compared to the ‘gold standard’ of physician review of hospital records using a kappa statistic.

Results

The VA method had near‐perfect agreement with the hospital record in determining ‘trauma’ vs. ‘non‐trauma’. There was moderate agreement when comparing types of death, for example cardiovascular vs. infectious disease, and limited agreement when comparing specific causes of death.

Conclusion

This VA tool can accurately ascertain trauma‐related mortality with almost perfect agreement. The next step is to assess pre‐hospital trauma mortality burden using the VA tool to determine whether hospital records underestimate the burden of trauma in the community.
Red blood cell in vitro quality and function is maintained after S‐303 pathogen inactivation treatment
Authors: Winter Kelly M. , Johnson Lacey , Kwok Matthew , Vidovic Diana , Hyland Ryan A. , Mufti Nina , Erickson Anna , Marks Denese C.
Published: March 2014

Background

Over the past decade there has been a growth in the development of pathogen reduction technologies to protect the blood supply from emerging pathogens. This development has proven to be difficult for red blood cells (RBCs). However the S‐303 system has been shown to effectively inactivate a broad spectrum of pathogens, while maintaining RBC quality.

Study Design and Methods

A paired three‐arm study was performed to compare the in vitro quality of S‐303–treated RBCs with RBCs stored at room temperature (RT) for the duration of the treatment (18‐20 hr) and control RBCs stored at 2 to 6°C. Products were sampled weekly over 42 days of storage (n = 10) and tested using an array of in vitro assays to measure quality, metabolism, and functional variables.

Results

During S‐303 treatment there was a slight loss of RBCs and hemoglobin (Hb < 5 g). Hemolysis, glucose consumption, and potassium release were similar in all groups during the 42 days of storage. S‐303–treated RBCs had a significantly lower lactate concentration and pH compared to the paired controls. The S‐303–treated RBCs had significantly higher adenosine triphosphate than the RT and control RBCs. There was a significant loss of 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate in the S‐303–treated products, which was also observed in the RT RBCs. Flow cytometry analysis demonstrated similar RBC size, morphology, expression of CD47, and glycophorin A in all groups.

Conclusion

RBCs treated with S‐303 for pathogen reduction had similar in vitro properties to the paired controls and were within transfusion guidelines.
Evaluation and management of postpartum hemorrhage: consensus from an international expert panel
Authors: Abdul‐Kadir Rezan , McLintock Claire , Ducloy Anne‐Sophie , El‐Refaey Hazem , England Adrian , Federici Augusto B. , Grotegut Chad A. , Halimeh Susan , Herman Jay H. , Hofer Stefan , James Andra H. , Kouides Peter A. , Paidas Michael J. , Peyvandi Flora , Winikoff Rochelle
Published: March 2014

Background

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) remains one of the leading causes of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide, although the lack of a precise definition precludes accurate data of the absolute prevalence of PPH.

Study Design and Methods

An international expert panel in obstetrics, gynecology, hematology, transfusion, and anesthesiology undertook a comprehensive review of the literature. At a meeting in November 2011, the panel agreed on a definition of severe PPH that would identify those women who were at a high risk of adverse clinical outcomes.

Results

The panel agreed on the following definition for severe persistent (ongoing) PPH: “Active bleeding >1000 mL within the 24 hours following birth that continues despite the use of initial measures including first‐line uterotonic agents and uterine massage.” A treatment algorithm for severe persistent PPH was subsequently developed. Initial evaluations include measurement of blood loss and clinical assessments of PPH severity. Coagulation screens should be performed as soon as persistent (ongoing) PPH is diagnosed, to guide subsequent therapy. If initial measures fail to stop bleeding and uterine atony persists, second‐ and third‐line (if required) interventions should be instated. These include mechanical or surgical maneuvers, i.e., intrauterine balloon tamponade or hemostatic brace sutures with hysterectomy as the final surgical option for uncontrollable PPH. Pharmacologic options include hemostatic agents (tranexamic acid), with timely transfusion of blood and plasma products playing an important role in persistent and severe PPH.

Conclusion

Early, aggressive, and coordinated intervention by health care professionals is critical in minimizing blood loss to ensure optimal clinical outcomes in management of women with severe, persistent PPH.
High‐frequency ultrasound biomicroscopy of the normal canine haired skin
Authors: Mantis Panagiotis , Tontis Dimitrios , Church David , Lloyd David , Stevens Kim , Balomenos Dimitrios , Gouletsou Pagona G. , Gianoulopoulos Giorgos , Doukas Dimitrios , Galatos Apostolos D. , Saridomichelakis Manolis
Published: March 2014

Background

The ultrasonographic appearance of the normal canine haired skin examined using high‐frequency ultrasonography has not been described.

Hyposthesis/Objectives

To describe the echogenicity of normal canine haired skin using high‐frequency (50 MHz) ultrasonography and to compare ultrasonographic with histological measurements of skin thickness using snap‐frozen tissue biopsy samples.

Animals

Ten normal healthy beagle dogs.

Methods

Ultrasonographic examination was performed on eight cutaneous sites by use of a 50 MHz polyvinylidene difluoride transducer. The skin echogenicity was evaluated, and the mean of 10 skin thickness measurements was calculated. Ultrasonography results were compared with histological findings of skin cryosections stained with haematoxylin and eosin, as well as with histometric measurements of skin thickness. Differences in the ultrasonographic and histological measurements among biopsy sites, age and sex of the animals were also examined.

Results

The skin layers and hair follicles could be identified with high‐frequency ultrasound biomicroscopy in all eight examination sites of all 10 dogs. There was a highly significant, positive association between the ultrasonographic and histological measurements (P < 0.001) of skin thickness. For both ultrasonographic and histological skin thickness measurements, there were no statistically significant differences between sex, age or among the different examination sites.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Cutaneous ultrasound biomicroscopy using a 50 MHz transducer is a useful tool for the following applications: (i) to identify the skin layers (including the epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous fat); (ii) to demonstrate the hair follicles in various areas of the haired skin; and (iii) to measure the thickness of normal canine skin accurately.
Wang Bing's Cinema: Shared Spaces of Labor
Authors: Pollacchi Elena
Published: March 2014

Since the early 1990s, independent filmmakers have dealt with representations of labor to investigate China's rapid transformation. Since the turn of the century, the increasing awareness of the limits of cinematic representations to tackle the contradictions of the Chinese system has led to more challenging approaches, with Wang Bing's cinema among the most effective. This article focuses on Wang Bing's work and discusses it as “cinema of labor.” Indeed, since his long documentary Tiexi qu/Tiexi qu. West of the Tracks (2003), on the closing down of a huge industrial area in the northeastern region of Liaoning, Wang Bing's cinema has created a shared experience involving both the viewer and the filmmaker. For over a decade, he has revitalized the concept of cinema as a tool of investigation and social intervention as confirmed by his feature film on the eponymous labor camp Jiabiangou/The Ditch (2010). With his most recent documentaries San zimei/Three Sisters (2012) and Feng Ai/'Til Madness Do Us Part (2013), shot in the rural areas of the Yunnan Mountains and in the enclosed space of a mental asylum, he has further challenged the intersection of documentary and drama to expose the paradoxes of the fast‐paced Chinese development.
Frequency Dependence of Viscoelastic Materials for Small Joint Replacements
Authors: Mahomed Aziza , Hukins David W. , Shepherd Duncan E. T. , Kukureka Stephen N.
Published: March 2014

Elastomers, such as silicone, are currently used for many designs of artificial finger and wrist joints because they are inert, durable, flexible and allow the necessary range of movements [1–6]. The disadvantage of these silicone joints is that they fracture in vivo [3,5,7]. In addition, these elastomers are viscoelastic so that their properties may depend on loading frequency. It is then possible that the performance of the joints may be frequency dependent. As a first stage in investigating such effects, we have determined the storage and loss moduli of a medical grade silicone in compression.
The Effectiveness of Adult Safety Belt Systems for Child Occupants: What Is the Role of the Booster Seat?
Authors: Mayrose James , Jehle Dietrich V. K. , Priya Aruna
Published: March 2014

There have been many published studies over the past few years regarding the use of belt positioning booster seats [1–4]. A recurring conclusion of these studies is that when it comes to protecting child motor vehicle occupants 4–8 years old, buckling them up in adult restraint systems is not enough. These studies also recommend that children should be restrained with safety systems that correspond with their stage of development and should progress through a series of age appropriate restraints such as child safety seats and belt positioning booster seats before moving on to adult restraint systems. Despite these recommendations, an overwhelming number of 4–8 year olds graduate to adult seat belts before they “properly fit”. It has been shown that correct safety belt fit is not usually achieved with adult lap/shoulder belt systems until children are about 4 feet 9 inches tall and weigh roughly 80 pounds [5]. For most children, this will not occur until they are about 9 years old.
Dynamic Out-of-Position Deployment of Thoracic Side Airbags
Authors: Hallman Jason J. , Pintar Frank A. , Yoganandan Narayan
Published: March 2014

Vehicle side impacts contribute to approximately 30% of crash fatalities annually, causing an estimated 10,000 deaths each year [1]. Additionally, 32% of all serious crash injuries occur in side impacts, with two-thirds in nearside impacts. Of those injured in nearside impacts, 52% were reported as sustaining thoracic injuries, more than any other anatomical region [2].
Prediction of Arterial Failure Based on a Microstructural Bi-Layer Fiber-Matrix Model With Softening
Authors: Volokh K. Y.
Published: March 2014

Two approaches to predict failure of soft tissue are available. The first is based on a pointwise criticality condition, e.g. von Mises maximum stress, and it is restrictive because only a local state of deformation is considered and the failure criterion is separated from stress analysis. The second is based on damage mechanics where a scalar or tensor parameter is introduced to describe the degradation of material properties during mechanical loading. The damage parameter is an internal variable which magnitude is constrained by a damage evolution equation and a critical threshold condition. Theoretically, the approach of damage mechanics is very flexible and allows reflecting the physical processes triggering macroscopic damage at small length scales. Practically, the experimental calibration of damage theories is far from trivial and, because of that, it is reasonable to look for alternative theories that present the bulk failure in more feasible ways than the traditional damage theories.
Mechanical Stimuli Resulting From Embryonic Muscle Contractions Promote Avian Periosteal Bone Collar Formation
Authors: Nowlan Niamh C. , Murphy Paula , Prendergast Patrick J.
Published: March 2014

Mechanical forces due to muscle contractions play an essential role in embryonic skeletal development. In neuromuscular conditions such as congenital myotonic dystrophy, where movement of the fetus in utero is reduced or absent, the bones and joints of the newborn often show malformations [1]. In this paper, we examine the effect of muscle contractions on embryonic bone development. We propose the hypothesis that mechanical loading due to muscle contractions promotes periosteal ossification and we test this hypothesis using computational and experimental methods. A set of FE analyses were performed using anatomically realistic morphologies and loading conditions, at several timepoints during development, in order to identify biophysical stimuli active during bone formation. Avian immobilization experiments were performed to examine bone growth in the absence of skeletal muscle contractions.