bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary results of proton radiotherapy for choroidal melanoma in Departhment of Ophthalmology Jagiellonian University in Kraków
Authors: MARKIEWICZ A , ROMANOWSKA‐DIXON B , BOGDALI A , KOWAL J , DEBICKA‐KUMELA M , JAKUBOWSKA B
Published: August 2014

Purpose Analysis of all cases choroidal melanoma treated with proton beam radiotherapy (PBRT) in 2011‐2013 in Krakow.

Methods The retrospective analysis of 39 patients with choroidal melanoma treated with proton beam in Krakow in 2011‐2013 was performed. There were 20 (51%) women and 19 (49%) men in mean 53,7 years (24 ‐ 74). . The largest tumor diameter ranged from 4,6 mm to 16.2 mm, and tumor thickness from 1.4 mm to 10.3 mm. Treatment was delivered in 4 fractions on 4 consecutive days. All patients received the dose of 60 CGE (Cobalt Grey Equivalent) given to PTV (planning target volume).

Results The tumour had regressed in 20 patients (51 %) and remained stable in 19 patients (49 %). The large tumours in 4 cases were removed during vitrectomy (endoresection). One tumor was excised with exoresection. In the case of 1 patient, despite intraocular tumour regression occurring the choroidal melanoma had spread multifocally into the orbit, which necessitated orbit exenteration. In this case tumor cells in scleral vessels were detected in histopathologycal examination. The results ensured that the eyeballs of 38 patients (99%) could be saved. Visual acuity improved in 5 cases, was stable in 21 and decreased in 14 patients The follow‐up period

Conclusion Proton beam radiotherapy is an effective method for treating patients with choroidal melanoma. This method ensures an eyeball preservation rate of 99%, with the vision function of 67% patients being saved. Decreasing visual function was caused by choroidal melanomas location close to macula and/or optic nerve disc in our group it were in 19 (49%) cases.
The coexistence of uveal melanoma and non‐pigment ciliary body epithelium adenoma in one eye
Authors: MARKIEWICZ A , BOGDALI A , ROMANOWSKA‐DIXON B , POCIEJ W , KOWAL J , DEBICKA‐KUMELA M , JAKUBOWSKA B
Published: August 2014

Purpose To report case series of coexistence of the non‐pigmented ciliary body epithelium adenoma and uveal melanoma in one eye.

Methods Retrospective analysis of case series.

Results In Department of Ophthalomology and Ocular Oncology in Cracow we have found 3 patients with coexistence of uveal melanoma and non‐pigmented ciliary body epithelium adenoma in some eye. All patients were treated because of diagnosis uveal melanoma . Non‐pigmented ciliary body epithelium adenoma was detected accidently in histopatological examination. Before histopatological test there were no suspicion of ciliary body adenoma. In 1 case melanoma was located in iris and in 2 cases in choroid. We performed iris melanoma excision in patient with iris melanoma. First patient with choroid melanoma were treated with brachytherapy and next with enucleation because of neovascular, secondary glaucoma . Second patient with choroidal melanoma in spite extraocular extention disagreed with enucleation in the beginning. But after I‐125 brachytherapy with excision of extraocular infiltration patient decided on enucleation. In histopathologycal examination choroidal melanoma and adenoma were detected.

Conclusion Adenoma of non‐pigmented ciliary body epithelium is a very rare tumor. It is more rarely with coexistence with uveal melanoma in one eye.
Impact of herpes zoster on quality of life and age‐related functional decline
Authors: LABETOULLE M
Published: August 2014

Purpose Herpes zoster (HZ) is a painful and debilitating disease, which incidence and severity increase with age. Whereas the burden of post‐herpetic neuralgia (PHN), its most common complication, has been evaluated in several studies, the specific impact of HZ ophthalmicus (HZO) on health‐related quality of life (HR‐QoL) and functional decline has been poorly studied. The objective of our study was to describe the rationale and design of the QUALIPZO (QUAlity of LIfe in Patients with herpes ZOster) study.

Methods Our multidisciplinary group (pharmacologist, general practitioner, geriatrician, neurologist, ophthalmologist, pain specialist, psychiatrist, and virologist) performed a narrative analysis of the literature on the relationship between HZ (HZO incl.) and functional decline.

Results Functional decline, defined by reduced ability to perform everyday activities, is enhanced with age, comorbidities, and infections. HZO represents about 10% of HZ cases, with direct ocular impairment occurring in >=50% of cases and vision decrease in about 7% of cases. PHN is more frequent after HZO than non‐ophthalmic HZ. Several studies have clearly shown that HZ dramatically impairs HR‐QoL and functional status; however, no large‐scale study has focused on HZO.

Conclusion The impact of HZO needs to be assessed, as proposed in the incoming QUALIPZO study.
Antiviral effects of HSV1‐specific meganucleases in a mouse model of relapsing herpes keratitis
Authors: LABETOULLE M , GABISON E , ROUSSEAU A , ARNOULD S , GALETTO R , PASDELOUP D
Published: August 2014

Purpose Conventional treatments of infections by Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1) do not reduce the burden of latent virus and the resulting risk of viral reactivation. Specific endonucleases (such as meganucleases) could be a tool to reduce relapsing herpetic keratitis in pre‐treated tissues.

Methods Three weeks after subconjunctival inoculation of rAAV (recombinant adenovirus‐associated vector) encoding either a meganuclease targeting the HSV1 genome or the Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) as a negative control, mice were infected with HSV1 strain SC16 to induce a latent infection in the trigeminal ganglia (TGs). 28 days later, mice were subjected to a reactivation stimulus (heatshock). Corneas and TGs were analyzed for the presence of HSV‐1 genome and of several viral transcripts (LAT, TK and UL18).

Results In the corneas, as in TG, meganuclease‐treated mice had fewer copies of viral genomes (viral load) and LAT, TK and UL18 transcripts (signs of viral replication) than control mice, ie treated with rAAV encoding GFP (p = 0.002 to p = 0.0008), suggesting a significant reduction of viral replication after herpes reactivation stimulus.

Conclusion The production of a specific HSV1 meganuclease seems to reduce the importance of HSV1 reactivation in TGs (the site of herpetic latency) and corneas, suggesting that specific HSV1 meganuclease could be tested in therapeutic protocols with the aim of reducing herpetic corneal relapses.
The choroid profiles at the posterior pole measured by enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography in healthy Korean children
Authors: LEE J , KIM J
Published: August 2014

Purpose To assess the changes of the choroidal thickness in healthy Korean Children using enhanced depth imaging (EDI) optical coherence tomography (OCT) and to evaluate the association of choroidal thickness and axial length.

Methods Seventy‐nine eyes (79 children) with cycloplegic refractive errors within ± 1diopter spherical equivalent underwent horizontal scan using EDI OCT. The choroidal thickness was the vertical distance between the posterior edge of the retinal pigment epithelium and the inner scleral border at 1mm intervals from 3mm nasal and 4mm temporal to the fovea using the manual caliper provided by the software of the device. Axial length was examined by partial coherence interferometry. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate variations of choroidal thickness at each location and to correlate choroidal thickness and axial length.

Results The mean age was 7.67 years. The mean±SD subfoveal choroidal thickness was 296.13±61.36µm. And the mean choroidal thickness was 160.57µm, 209.19µm, and 256.90µm at 3mm, 2mm, 1mm nasal to the fovea and 302.77µm, 307.68µm, 314.33µm, 319.49µm at 1mm, 2mm, 3mm, and 4mm temporal to the fovea respectively. The mean axial length was 22.96±0.77mm. The mean choroidal thickness was 28.69µm and 28.36µm thicker at 3mm and 2mm nasal to the fovea respectively in eyes with shorter than mean axial length (p=0.011, p=0.033).

Conclusion The choroidal thickness increased nasal to the temporal direction at posterior pole and eyes with shorter axial length tend to present thicker choroids at nasal area to the fovea in Korean children with no refractive errors.
Comparative difference of the choroidal thickness according to the refractive errors measured by enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography
Authors: LEE J , YU S
Published: August 2014

Purpose To assess the differences of the choroidal thickness(CT) according to the refractive errors using enhanced depth imaging(EDI) optical coherence tomography(OCT).

Methods Ninety‐seven eyes in healthy Korean children are categorized into three groups according to the refractive errors: hyperopia(27 eyes), emmetropia(39 eyes), and myopia(31 eyes). They underwent horizontal and vertical EDI OCT scan. The CT was measured at 9 locations: fovea(F) and 1mm & 3mm nasal(N1,N3), temporal(T1,T3), superior(S1,S3) and inferior(I1,I3) area to the fovea. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the comparative difference of the CT at each location.

Results The overall mean age was 8.2 years and there was no difference in three groups(p=0.320). The foveal CT in hyperopia was 359.41㎛ which was thicker than those in emmetropia(301.97㎛) and myopia(263.94㎛) and CT at the other 8 locations in hyperopia was thicker than in emmtropia and myopia(p<0.05). The CT at S1, T1, N1 and N3 in hyperopia was thicker than those of emmetropia(p<0.05). The CT of hyperopia was thicker than those of myopia except T3 location(p<0.05). The thickest location of three groups was fovea in hyperopia, and T3 in emmetropia and myopia which was 320.79㎛ and 291.74㎛, respectively. The thinnest location was N3 in three groups(220.22㎛ in hyperopia, 163.92㎛ in emmetropia and 151.29㎛ in myopia)

Conclusion The CT of hyperopia was thicker in comparison with emmetropia and myopia, especially at nasal area between hyperopia and emmetropia and at all locations except T3 between hyperopia and myopia. The temporal choroid was thicker than the nasal choroid regardless of refractive errors, but the thickest location in hyperopia was the fovea.
Confocal microscopy as a useful approach to describe gill rakers of Asian species of carp and native filter‐feeding fishes of the upper Mississippi River system
Authors: Walleser L. R. , Howard D. R. , Sandheinrich M. B. , Gaikowski M. P. , Amberg J. J.
Published: August 2014

To better understand potential diet overlap among exotic Asian species of carp and native species of filter‐feeding fishes of the upper Mississippi River system, microscopy was used to document morphological differences in the gill rakers. Analysing samples first with light microscopy and subsequently with confocal microscopy, the three‐dimensional structure of gill rakers inHypophthalmichthys molitrix,Hypophthalmichthys nobilisandDorosoma cepedianumwas more thoroughly described and illustrated than previous work with traditional microscopy techniques. The three‐dimensional structure of gill rakers inIctiobus cyprinelluswas described and illustrated for the first time.
A novel real‐time CTL assay to measure designer T‐cell function against HIV Env+ cells
Authors: MacLean Andrew G. , Walker Edith , Sahu Gautam K. , Skowron Gail , Marx Preston , von Laer Dorothee , Junghans Richard P. , Braun Stephen E.
Published: August 2014

Background

To increase the immunosurveillance in HIV infection, we used retroviral vectors expressing CD4‐chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) to genetically modify autologous T cells and redirect CTL toward HIV. The CD4 extracellular domain targets envelope and the intracellular signaling domains activate T cells. The maC46 fusion inhibitor binds HIV and blocks viral replication.

Methods

We stimulated rhesus PBMCs with antibodies to CD3/CD28 and cotransduced T cells with CD4‐CAR and maC46 vectors. CD4‐CAR‐transduced T cells were added to Env+ 293T cells at E:T of 1:1. Killing of target cells was measured as reduced impedance.

Results

We observed gene expression in 60–70% of rhesus CD3+CD8+ T cells with the individual vectors and in 35% of the cells with both vectors. CD4‐CAR‐transduced populations specifically killed Env+ cells.

Conclusions

In these studies, we showed that designer T cells were redirected to kill Env+ cells. Control of viremia without HAART would revolutionize treatment for HIV patients.
Youths' Organized Activities and Adjustment in Emerging Adulthood: A Multidimensional Conception of Participation
Authors: Viau Annie , Poulin François
Published: August 2014

This longitudinal study examined how participation in organized activities during adolescence (ages 14–17) is associated with adjustment in emerging adulthood (age 21). It investigated the contribution of three dimensions of participation: activity portfolios (i.e., specific combinations of activity types), intensity, and duration. The sample included 287 Canadian adolescents. First, distinct activity portfolios were identified using a person‐centered approach. Second, differences between portfolios were examined with regard to salient indicators of adjustment in emerging adulthood: depressive symptoms, problematic alcohol use, educational status, and civic engagement. Third, the contributions of participation intensity and duration were examined. Results revealed that certain portfolios were related in distinct ways to specific outcomes and that these differences depended on intensity or duration of participation.
Parental Provision of Academic Structure and the Transition to Middle School
Authors: Grolnick Wendy S. , Raftery‐Helmer Jacquelyn N. , Flamm Elizabeth S. , Marbell Kristine N. , Cardemil Esteban V.
Published: August 2014

This study examined parents' provision of academic structure, and whether they implement it in an autonomy supportive or controlling manner, in relation to children's competence‐related beliefs, motivation, and academic behavior over the transition to middle school. Interviews with 160 sixth‐grade children were coded on parental structure and autonomy support. Children reported on their competence‐related beliefs, motivation, and engagement in sixth and seventh grades. Regression analyses showed that higher structure predicted seventh‐grade perceived competence, intrinsic motivation, engagement, and English grades, controlling for these same outcomes at sixth grade. Autonomy support predicted perceived competence, autonomous motivation, and English grades, controlling for prior outcomes. Structural equation models indicated that relations between structure and engagement and between autonomy support and grades were mediated by perceived competence.
MG428 is a novel positive regulator of recombination that triggers mgpB and mgpC gene variation in Mycoplasma genitalium
Authors: Burgos Raul , Totten Patricia A.
Published: August 2014

The human pathogen Mycoplasma genitalium employs homologous recombination to generate antigenic diversity in the immunodominant MgpB and MgpC proteins. Only recently, some of the molecular factors involved in this process have been characterized, but nothing is known about its regulation. Here, we show that M. genitalium expresses N‐terminally truncated RecA isoforms via alternative translation initiation, but only the full‐length protein is essential for gene variation. We also demonstrate that overexpression of MG428 positively regulates the expression of recombination genes, including recA, ruvA, ruvB and ORF2, a gene of unknown function co‐transcribed with ruvAB. The co‐ordinated induction of these genes correlated with an increase of mgpBC gene variation. In contrast, cells lacking MG428 were unable to generate variants despite expressing normal levels of RecA. Similarly, deletion analyses of the recA upstream region defined sequences required for gene variation without abolishing RecA expression. The requirement of these sequences is consistent with the presence of promoter elements associated with MG428‐dependent recA induction. Sequences upstream of recA also influence the relative abundance of RecA isoforms, possibly through translational regulation. Overall, these results suggest that MG428 is a positive regulator of recombination and that precise control of recA expression is required to initiate mgpBC variation.
Immunoglobulin A nephropathy in horseshoe kidney: Case reports and literature review
Authors: Hu Panpan , Jin Meiling , Xie Yuansheng , Chen Pu , Zhang Xueguang , Yin Zhong , Cai Guangyan , Chen Xiangmei
Published: August 2014

Horseshoe kidney is the most common congenital renal fusion anomaly. Immunoglobulin A nephropathy is a common glomerulonephritis worldwide. However, the co‐occurrence of these diseases had not been reported in the literature. We report the first two cases with the occurrence of immunoglobulin A nephropathy in horseshoe kidney. The first case was a 26‐year‐old male with hypertension and proteinuria (1.4 g/24 h), his pathological finding was primary immunoglobulin A nephropathy. The second case was a 15‐year‐old female who presented with recurrent peliosis on bilateral lower extremities, haematuria and proteinuria (1.7 g/24 h). Her renal biopsy finding was Henoch–Schonlein purpura nephritis (secondary immunoglobulin A nephropathy). In both cases, renal biopsy was performed by experienced doctors under ultrasonic guidance at the renal upper pole and no postoperative complications were observed. After they were treated based on the renal pathological findings for 6 months, urine protein excretion decreased significantly and blood pressure and serum creatinine stabilized. It is possible that immunoglobulin A nephropathy occurs in a horseshoe kidney patient. Renal biopsy may be valuable and viable for horseshoe kidney patients with heavy proteinuria to identify pathologic type of glomerulopathy and to guide treatment, if renal biopsy is performed by experienced doctors at the renal upper pole under renal ultrasonic guidance.
Diagnostic value of B‐type natriuretic peptide for estimating left atrial size and its usefulness for predicting all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular events among chronic haemodialysis patients
Authors: Ishigami Junichi , Iimori Soichiro , Kuwahara Michio , Sasaki Sei , Tsukamoto Yusuke
Published: August 2014

Aim

Estimating fluid balance in haemodialysis patients is essential when determining dry weight, but limited methods are currently available. B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a useful surrogate marker in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF), but whether its validity could be generalized to haemodialysis patients has not been studied well.

Methods

A total of 457 haemodialysis patients at a dialysis centre were analyzed. Determinants of BNP were assessed in connection with ultrasound cardiography (UCG) records, Kt/V, ultrafiltration rate (UFR), and demographic factors. All‐cause death and cardiovascular (CV) events were recorded as the main outcome.

Results

Among the UCG records, left atrial diameter (LAD), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), were determinants of log‐transformed (ln) BNP; UFR, age and sex were also significant. There was a positive correlation between BNP and LAD (r = 0.285, P < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed that BNP had 90% and 80% sensitivity to predict the presence of LA enlargement of 77.9 pg/mL and 133.2 pg/mL, respectively. Higher BNP and lower LVEF were associated with higher risk for developing all‐cause death and CVD. In the adjusted model, patients with BNP higher than 471 pg/mL had hazard ratio of 2.18 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20–3.96, P = 0.01), compared to those with BNP <109 pg/mL.

Conclusion

B‐type natriuretic peptide was determined by LAD, LVEF, UFR, age and sex. BNP and LAD had positive correlation and BNP could become a useful tool for estimating the presence of LA enlargement. BNP and LVEF was a strong risk factor for predicting all‐cause death and CV events among patients undergoing haemodialysis.
Cardiac Autonomic Dysfunction in Patients with Head‐up Tilt Test‐Induced Vasovagal Syncope
Authors: SHINOHARA TETSUJI , EBATA YUKI , AYABE REIKA , FUKUI AKIRA , OKADA NORIHIRO , YUFU KUNIO , NAKAGAWA MIKIKO , TAKAHASHI NAOHIKO
Published: August 2014

Background

Vasovagal syncope (VVS) is the result of an autonomic reflex that has a final effect of reducing sympathetic drive and increasing vagal activity. However, whether syncopal symptoms are associated with pathological cardiac autonomic modulation is not fully known. We tested the hypothesis that cardiac autonomic function is impaired in patients with VVS.

Methods

Eighty‐four consecutive patients (59 males; 48.8 ± 20.9 years) with recurrent unexplained syncope were enrolled. The head‐up tilt test (HUTT) was positive in 38 patients and negative in 46 patients. Cardiac autonomic function was assessed by baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), heart rate variability, plasma concentrations of norepinephrine, and 123I‐metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) scintigraphy.

Results

BRS indices were significantly lower in the HUTT‐positive group than in the HUTT‐negative group (6.1 ± 5.5 mm Hg/s vs 9.8 ± 7.6 mm Hg/s, P = 0.02). With regard to cardiac 123I‐MIBG scintigraphy, the mean heart‐to‐mediastinum ratio at the delayed phase tended to be lower in HUTT‐positive than in HUTT‐negative individuals, but this difference was not significant (2.75 ± 0.55 vs 3.02 ± 0.49, P = 0.08).The percent washout rate of 123I‐MIBG was significantly higher in the positive group compared with the negative group (40.7 ± 13.1% vs 31.5 ± 13.3%, P = 0.02). Multivariate logistic analysis revealed that the appearance of HUTT‐induced VVS was predicted independently by a high percent washout rate of 123I‐MIBG (odds ratio, 0.954; 95% confidence interval, 0.903–0.998; P = 0.048).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that pathological autonomic cardiac modulation may play a role in the appearance of syncope in VVS patients.
Distal–proximal skin temperature gradient prior to sleep onset in infants for clinical use
Authors: Abe Noriko , Kodama Hideya
Published: August 2014

Background

The objective of this study was to explore the possibility of using distal–proximal skin temperature gradient (DPG) to predict sleep‐onset latency of night‐time sleep for infants at home.

Methods

Foot (for distal) and abdominal (for proximal) skin temperature during sleep onset in healthy infants, aged 4–9 months, was continuously recorded using a temperature logger at home. Sleep‐onset latency during each study night was defined as the interval from lights‐off to sleep onset, determined on actigraphy. Association of DPG profile after lights‐off with sleep‐onset latency on the study nights was evaluated.

Results

Data for 43 nights from 28 infants were available for analysis. With regard to low DPG (<−2.5°C) at lights‐off, >60% of infants fell asleep within 30 min if DPG was increased to ≥−2.5°C within 15 min after lights‐off. If DPG remained at <−2.5°C at 15 min after lights‐off, however, only 20% of infants fell asleep within 30 min. In addition, if infants were still awake at 15 min after lights‐off and the DPG at that time was <−2.5°C, they were not likely to quickly fall asleep (predictive value was 0.875).

Conclusions

Increase in DPG by 15 min after lights‐off is a key determinant for sleep‐onset latency.
The consequences of high levels of attachment security
Authors: GILLATH OMRI , GREGERSEN SABRINA C. , CANTERBERRY MELANIE , SCHMITT DAVID P.
Published: August 2014

Attachment security is known to have various positive outcomes. Recent evidence, however, suggests that security, especially high levels of it, may also have negative outcomes. Three studies tested this possibility. Studies 1 and 2 showed a linear rather than curvilinear trend between security and positive outcomes, suggesting that even at high levels security correlates with positive outcomes. Study 3, which focused on secure behaviors, found that exhibiting high levels of secure behaviors was related to a higher frequency of negative outcomes. However, dispositional attachment security was negatively correlated with negative outcomes, and engaging in secure behaviors strengthened this correlation. These findings suggest that secure behaviors rather than perceptions associated with attachment security (i.e., working models) may be related with negative outcomes.
Fate of xylem‐transported 11C‐ and 13C‐labeled CO2 in leaves of poplar
Authors: Bloemen Jasper , Bauweraerts Ingvar , De Vos Filip , Vanhove Christian , Vandenberghe Stefaan , Boeckx Pascal , Steppe Kathy
Published: August 2014

In recent studies, assimilation of xylem‐transported CO2 has gained considerable attention as a means of recycling respired CO2 in trees. However, we still lack a clear and detailed picture on the magnitude of xylem‐transported CO2 assimilation, in particular within leaf tissues. To this end, detached poplar leaves (Populus × canadensis Moench ‘Robusta’) were allowed to take up a dissolved 13CO2 label serving as a proxy of xylem‐transported CO2 entering the leaf from the branch. The uptake rate of the 13C was manipulated by altering the vapor pressure deficit (VPD) (0.84, 1.29 and 1.83 kPa). Highest tissue enrichments were observed under the highest VPD. Among tissues, highest enrichment was observed in the petiole and the veins, regardless of the VPD treatment. Analysis of non‐labeled leaves showed that some 13C diffused from the labeled leaves and was fixed in the mesophyll of the non‐labeled leaves. However, 13C leaf tissue enrichment analysis with elemental analysis coupled to isotope ratio mass spectrometry was limited in spatial resolution at the leaf tissue level. Therefore, 11C‐based CO2 labeling combined with positron autoradiography was used and showed a more detailed spatial distribution within a single tissue, in particular in secondary veins. Therefore, in addition to 13C, 11C‐based autoradiography can be used to study the fate of xylem‐transported CO2 at leaf level, allowing the acquisition of data at a yet unprecedented resolution.
Three Misconceptions About Radiation — And What We Teachers Can Do to Confront Them
Authors: Neumann Susanne
Published: August 2014

During the last few years teaching physics, I have noticed that my students are becoming more and more interested in the topic of radiation. Mobile phones, modern game consoles, and WiFi—all of these devices involving some kind of radiation are part of our students' everyday lives. Students are also frequently confronted in the media with debates relating to different types of radiation: What are the effects of nuclear contamination going to be after the Fukushima accident? Can radiation from mobile phones really cause cancer? Should the use of tanning booths be forbidden for teenagers? Although students seem to be very motivated to learn about the topic of radiation, I have encountered several misconceptions about this topic that my students bring into the physics classroom. Some of these misconceptions might be caused by biased media reports, while others can be attributed to a different usage of the word radiation in everyday language (when compared to the scientific usage of this term). In this paper, I would like to present the most common misconceptions about radiation that I have encountered in my physics courses and I would like to give some ideas how to confront these ideas in teaching. A detailed description of these misconceptions discovered through empirical research can be found in one of my research articles.1
Shooting Fish in a Barrel: A Demonstration of the Refraction of Light
Authors: Trikosko Walter
Published: August 2014

This is not a treatise on optics or the index of refraction. It is merely a demonstration that will surprise and engage many of your students. We have all put a pencil in a beaker of water and observed how it appears to bend.1 Not so much fun or engaging, is it? Why not illustrate this optical effect by taking your students spearfishing? Simulated spearfishing, to avoid the financial and legal ramifications.
Blackbody Radiation from an Incandescent Lamp
Authors: Ribeiro C. I.
Published: August 2014

In this article we propose an activity aimed at introductory students to help them understand the Stefan-Boltzmann and Wien's displacement laws. It only requires simple materials that are available at any school: an incandescent lamp, a variable dc energy supply, and a computer to run an interactive simulation of the blackbody spectrum. Essentially, the activity consists of calculating the filament's temperature for different values of electric power and comparing the color and brightness of the lamp's light, as seen by the eye, with the correspondent (simulated) black-body spectrum. Although the comparison is only qualitative, we find that the activity provides a tangible introduction to blackbody radiation.
Bench-to-Bench Bottlenecks in Translation
Authors: Higgins Matthew J. , Thursby Jerry , Thursby Marie
Published: August 2014

Transfers of biopharmaceutical inventions between firms resets and falsely shortens calculated translation times.
Denervation suppresses gastric tumorigenesis
Authors: Zhao Chun-Mei , Hayakawa Yoku , Kodama Yosuke , Muthupalani Sureshkumar , Westphalen Christoph B. , Andersen Gøran T. , Flatberg Arnar , Johannessen Helene , Friedman Richard A. , Renz Bernhard W. , Sandvik Arne K. , Beisvag Vidar , Tomita Hiroyuki , Hara Akira , Quante Michael , Li Zhishan , Gershon Michael D. , Kaneko Kazuhiro , Fox James G. , Wang Timothy C. , Chen Duan
Published: August 2014

Surgical or pharmacologic interruption of muscarinic innervation to the stomach suppresses gastric tumor growth in mice and humans.
Marburg virus infection in nonhuman primates: Therapeutic treatment by lipid-encapsulated siRNA
Authors: Thi Emily P. , Mire Chad E. , Ursic-Bedoya Raul , Geisbert Joan B. , H. Lee Amy C. , Agans Krystle N. , Robbins Marjorie , Deer Daniel J. , Fenton Karla A. , MacLachlan Ian , Geisbert Thomas W.
Published: August 2014

Lipid nanoparticle delivery of anti-MARV nucleoprotein–targeting small interfering RNA can treat Marburg virus in nonhuman primates after symptom onset.
Modulating Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Nishijima Daniel K.
Published: August 2014

An oral drug that blocks brain inflammation reduced edema in patients with intracranial hemorrhage.
DNA Transport across the Outer and Inner Membranes of Naturally Transformable Vibrio cholerae Is Spatially but Not Temporally Coupled
Authors: Seitz Patrick , Blokesch Melanie
Published: August 2014

The physiological state of natural competence for transformation allows certain bacteria to take up free DNA from the environment and to recombine such newly acquired DNA into their chromosomes. However, even though conserved components that are required to undergo natural transformation have been identified in several naturally competent bacteria, our knowledge of the underlying mechanisms of the DNA uptake process remains very limited. To better understand these mechanisms, we investigated the competence-mediated DNA transport in the naturally transformable pathogen
Vibrio cholerae
. Previously, we used a cell biology-based approach to experimentally address an existing hypothesis, which suggested the competence protein ComEA plays a role in the DNA uptake process across the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. Here, we extended this knowledge by investigating the dynamics of DNA translocation across both membranes. More precisely, we indirectly visualized the transfer of the external DNA from outside the cell into the periplasm followed by the shuttling of the DNA into the cytoplasm. Based on these data, we conclude that for
V. cholerae
, the DNA translocation across the outer and inner membranes is spatially but not temporally coupled.

IMPORTANCE
As a mode of horizontal gene transfer, natural competence for transformation has contributed substantially to the plasticity of genomes and to bacterial evolution. Natural competence is often a tightly regulated process and is induced by diverse environmental cues. This is in contrast to the mechanistic aspects of the DNA translocation event, which are most likely conserved among naturally transformable bacteria. However, the DNA uptake process is still not well understood. We therefore investigated how external DNA reaches the cytosol of the naturally transformable bacterium
V. cholerae
. More specifically, we provide evidence that the DNA translocation across the membranes is spatially but not temporally coupled. We hypothesize that this model also applies to other competent Gram-negative bacteria and that our study contributes to the general understanding of this important biological process.
Remodeling of the Intestinal Brush Border Underlies Adhesion and Virulence of an Enteric Pathogen
Authors: Zhou Xiaohui , Massol Ramiro H. , Nakamura Fumihiko , Chen Xiang , Gewurz Benjamin E. , Davis Brigid M. , Lencer Wayne I. , Waldor Matthew K.
Published: August 2014

Intestinal colonization by
Vibrio parahaemolyticus
—the most common cause of seafood-borne bacterial enteritis worldwide—induces extensive disruption of intestinal microvilli. In orogastrically infected infant rabbits, reorganization of the apical brush border membrane includes effacement of some microvilli and marked elongation of others. All diarrhea, inflammation, and intestinal pathology associated with
V. parahaemolyticus
infection are dependent upon one of its type 3 secretion systems (T3SS2); however, translocated effectors that directly mediate brush border restructuring and bacterial adhesion are not known. Here, we demonstrate that the effector VopV is essential for
V. parahaemolyticus
intestinal colonization and therefore its pathogenicity, that it induces effacement of brush border microvilli, and that this effacement is required for adhesion of
V. parahaemolyticus
to enterocytes. VopV contains multiple functionally independent and mechanistically distinct domains through which it disrupts microvilli. We show that interaction between VopV and filamin, as well as VopV’s previously noted interaction with actin, mediates enterocyte cytoskeletal reorganization. VopV’s multipronged approach to epithelial restructuring, coupled with its impact on colonization, suggests that remodeling of the epithelial brush border is a critical step in pathogenesis.

IMPORTANCE
Colonization of the small bowel by
Vibrio parahaemolyticus
, the most common bacterial agent of seafood-borne enteric disease, induces extensive structural changes in the intestinal epithelium. Here, we show that this diarrheal pathogen’s colonization and virulence depend upon VopV, a bacterial protein that is transferred into host epithelial cells. VopV induces marked rearrangement of the apical epithelial cell membrane, including elimination of microvilli, by two means: through interaction with actin and through a previously unrecognized interaction with the actin-cross-linking protein filamin. VopV-mediated “effacement” of microvilli enables 
V. parahaemolyticus
to adhere to host cells, although VopV may not directly mediate adhesion. VopV’s effects on microvillus structure and bacterial adhesion likely account for its essential role in 
V. parahaemolyticus
 intestinal pathogenesis. Our findings suggest a new role for filamin in brush border maintenance and raise the possibility that microvillus effacement is a common strategy among enteric pathogens for enhancing adhesion to host cells.
Acupuncture Increases the Diameter and Reorganisation of Collagen Fibrils during Rat Tendon Healing
Authors: de Almeida Marcos dos Santos , de Freitas Karine Moura , Oliveira Letícia Prado , Vieira Cristiano Pedrozo , Guerra Flávia Da Ré , Dolder Mary Anne Heidi , Pimentel Edson Rosa
Published: August 2014

Background

Our previous study showed that electroacupuncture (EA) increases the concentration and reorganisation of collagen in a rat model of tendon healing. However, the ultrastructure of collagen fibrils after acupuncture is unknown.

Objectives

To assess the effect of acupuncture protocols on the ultrastructure of collagen fibrils during tendon healing.

Methods

Sixty-four rats were divided into the following groups: non-tenotomised (normal group), tenotomised (teno group), tenotomised and subjected to manual acupuncture at ST36 (ST36 group), BL57 (BL57 group) and ST36+BL57 (SB group) and EA at ST36+BL57 (EA group). The mass-average diameter (MAD) and the reorganisation of collagen fibril diameters were determined during the three phases of tendon healing (at 7, 14 and 21 days).

Results

The MAD increased during the three phases of healing in the SB group. In the EA group, MAD increased initially but was reduced at day 21. The reorganisation of collagen fibrils was improved in the EA and SB groups at days 14 and 21, respectively. EA at day 21 appeared to reduce the reorganisation.

Conclusions

These results indicate that the use of EA up to day 14 and manual acupuncture at ST36+BL57 up to day 21 improve the ultrastructure of collagen fibrils, indicating strengthening of the tendon structure. These data suggest a potential role for acupuncture in rehabilitation protocols.
Misclassification due to age grouping in measures of child development
Authors: Veldhuizen Scott , Rodriguez Christine , Wade Terrance J , Cairney John
Published: August 2014

Purpose

Screens for developmental delay generally provide a set of norms for different age groups. Development varies continuously with age, however, and applying a single criterion for an age range will inevitably produce misclassifications. In this report, we estimate the resulting error rate for one example: the cognitive subscale of the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (BSID-III).

Design

Data come from a general population sample of 594 children (305 male) aged 1 month to 42.5 months who received the BSID-III as part of a validation study. We used regression models to estimate the mean and variance of the cognitive subscale as a function of age. We then used these results to generate a dataset of one million simulated participants and compared their status before and after division into age groups. Finally, we applied broader age bands used in two other instruments and explored likely validity limitations when different instruments are compared.

Results

When BSID-III age groups are used, 15% of cases are missed and 15% of apparent cases are false positives. Wider age groups produced error rates from 27% to 46%. Comparison of different age groups suggests that sensitivity in validation studies would be limited, under certain assumptions, to 70% or less.

Implications

The use of age groups produces a large number of misclassifications. Although affected children will usually be close to the threshold, this may lead to misreferrals. Results may help to explain the poor measured agreement of development screens. Scoring methods that treat child age as continuous would improve instrument accuracy.
Coronary artery disease in patients with atypical chest pain with and without diabetes mellitus assessed with coronary CT angiography
Authors: Krul Marije M G , Bogaard Kjell , Knol Remco J J , van Rossum Albert C , Knaapen Paul , Cornel Jan H , van der Zant Friso M
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Coronary artery disease (CAD) in diabetes mellitus (DM) is often widespread when diagnosed. Non-invasive coronary calcium scoring and coronary CT angiography (CAC-score/CCTA) are accurate in the detection of CAD. This study compared CAD characteristics as identified by CCTA between patients with and without DM with atypical chest pain.

Methods

CAD was defined as CAC-score >0 and/or presence of coronary plaque. Several CAD characteristics (number of affected segments, obstructive (>50% stenosis) CAD and CAD distribution) were compared on a per patient and segment basis. Subanalysis of duration of DM (<5 or >5 years) and gender was performed.

Results

A total of 1148 patients (63.3% men, mean age 57.7±10.7), of whom 99 (8.6%) suffered from DM, were referred for CCTA. There was no difference in the prevalence of CAD between patients with and without DM (53.5% vs 50.9%, p=0.674). However patients with DM showed more affected coronary segments compared with patients without DM (2.5±3.4 vs 1.7±2.4, p=0.003). Multivariate analysis indicated that DM was an independent predictor of obstructive CAD (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.23 to 3.78), as were age, women, and Diamond-Forrester score. In our study, obstructive CAD was more prevalent in women than in men (DM 40.0% vs 14.1%, p=0.003; non-DM 16.8% vs 8.4%, p<0.001). Patients suffering from DM >5 years showed more distal plaques (11.2% vs 7.7%, p=0.030).

Conclusions

Patients with atypical chest pain and DM showed more extensive CAD, as well as more obstructive CAD, particularly in women. Diabetes duration (>5 years) was not associated with more obstructive coronary disease or different plaque morphology, although more distal disease was present.
MAXimising Involvement in MUltiMorbidity (MAXIMUM) in primary care: protocol for an observation and interview study of patients, GPs and other care providers to identify ways of reducing patient safety failures
Authors: Daker-White Gavin , Hays Rebecca , Esmail Aneez , Minor Brian , Barlow Wendy , Brown Benjamin , Blakeman Thomas , Bower Peter
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Increasing numbers of older people are living with multiple long-term health conditions but global healthcare systems and clinical guidelines have traditionally focused on the management of single conditions. Having two or more long-term conditions, or ‘multimorbidity’, is associated with a range of adverse consequences and poor outcomes and could put patients at increased risk of safety failures. Traditionally, most research into patient safety failures has explored hospital or inpatient settings. Much less is known about patient safety failures in primary care. Our core aims are to understand the mechanisms by which multimorbidity leads to safety failures, to explore the different ways in which patients and services respond (or fail to respond), and to identify opportunities for intervention.

Methods and analysis

We plan to undertake an applied ethnographic study of patients with multimorbidity. Patients’ interactions and environments, relevant to their healthcare, will be studied through observations, diary methods and semistructured interviews. A framework, based on previous studies, will be used to organise the collection and analysis of field notes, observations and other qualitative data. This framework includes the domains: access breakdowns, communication breakdowns, continuity of care errors, relationship breakdowns and technical errors.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was received from the National Health Service Research Ethics Committee for Wales. An individual case study approach is likely to be most fruitful for exploring the mechanisms by which multimorbidity leads to safety failures. A longitudinal and multiperspective approach will allow for the constant comparison of patient, carer and healthcare worker expectations and experiences related to the provision, integration and management of complex care. This data will be used to explore ways of engaging patients and carers more in their own care using shared decision-making, patient empowerment or other relevant models.
Comparison and validation of International Consensus Diagnostic Criteria for diagnosis of autoimmune pancreatitis from pancreatic cancer in a Taiwanese cohort
Authors: Chang Ming-Chu , Liang Po-Chin , Jan I-Shiow , Yang Ching-Yao , Tien Yu-Wen , Wei Shu-Chen , Wong Jau-Min , Chang Yu-Ting
Published: August 2014

Objectives

The International Consensus Diagnostic Criteria (ICDC) designed to diagnosis autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) has been proposed recently. The diagnostic performance of ICDC has not been previously evaluated in diffuse-type and focal-type AIP, respectively, in comparison with the revised HISORt and Asian criteria in Taiwan.

Design

Prospective, consecutive patient cohort.

Setting

Largest tertiary referred centre hospital managing pancreatic disease in Taiwan.

Participants

188 patients with AIP and 130 with tissue proofed pancreatic adenocarcinoma were consecutively recruited.

Interventions

The ICDC, as well as revised HISORt and Asian criteria, was applied for each participant. Each diagnostic criterion of ICDC was validated with special reference to levels 1 and 2 in diffuse-type and focal-type AIP.

Outcomes

Sensitivity, specificity and accuracy. Each diagnostic criterion of ICDC was validated with special reference to levels 1 and 2 in AIP and focal-type AIP.

Results

The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of ICDC for all AIP were the best: 89.4%, 100% and 93.7%, respectively, in these three criteria. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of ICDC for focal-type AIP (84.9%, 100% and 93.8%) were also the best among these three criteria. The area under the curve of receiver-operator characteristic of ICDC was 0.95 (95% CI 0.92 to 0.97) in all AIP and 0.93 (95% CI 0.88 to 0.97) in focal-type AIP.

Conclusions

The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of ICDC are higher than the revised HISORt and Asian criteria. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of each criterion are higher in diffuse-type AIP compared with focal-type AIP. Under the same specificity, the sensitivity and accuracy of ICDC are higher than other diagnostic criteria in focal-type AIP. ICDC has better diagnostic performance compared with previously proposed diagnostic criteria in diffuse-type and focal-type AIP.
Passive smoking assessed by salivary cotinine and self-report in relation to cause-specific mortality: 17-year follow-up of study participants in the UK Health and Lifestyle Survey
Authors: Batty G David , Gale Catharine R , Jefferis Barbara , Kvaavik Elisabeth
Published: August 2014

Background

Evidence that passive smoking is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and selected cancers is largely derived from studies in which this exposure is self-reported. Objective assessment using biochemical techniques may yield a more accurate estimate of risk, although each approach has its strengths and weaknesses. We examined the association of salivary cotinine, a widely utilised biomarker for passive smoking, and self-reported passive smoking in the home, with mortality from all causes, cardiovascular disease and all cancers combined.

Methods

In 1992, investigators on the UK Health and Lifestyle Survey collected data on salivary cotinine, self-reported smoking (direct and passive) and a range of covariates in 3731 men and women aged 25 years and over. Mortality was ascertained using linkage to national death records.

Results

Analyses were based on 2523 individuals (1433 [57%] women) who classified themselves as non-smokers (never and former). Seventeen years of follow-up gave rise to 588 deaths (253 from cardiovascular disease and 146 from cancer). In men, adjusted hazard ratios (HR) for the association between cotinine levels (1.3–15.0 [high] vs ≤0.3 [low] ng/mL) and the various mortality outcomes were weak for total mortality (HR; 95% CI: 1.22; 0.91 to 1.64) and cardiovascular disease (1.25; 0.78 to 1.99) and absent for all cancers combined (1.10; 0.61 to 2.00). Corresponding associations were generally stronger when self-reported passive smoking (some vs none) was the exposure of interest: 1.53 (1.12 to 2.08), 1.88 (1.20 to 2.96) and 1.58 (0.85 to 2.93). The pattern of association for women in both sets of analyses was less consistent.

Conclusions

In men in the present study, compared with our biochemical marker of passive smoking, cotinine, mortality was generally more consistently associated with self-reported passive smoking.