bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differentiation between sediment and hypolimnion methanogen communities in humic lakes
Authors: Youngblut Nicholas D. , Dell'Aringa Mark , Whitaker Rachel J.
Published: November 2013

The traditional view of carbon cycling within the pelagic zone of freshwater lakes has consisted of methane production within the anoxic sediment, followed by diffusive flux and ebullition through the water column. Methanogenic archaea have been shown to be present within the water columns of freshwater lakes; however, little is known about whether these methanogenic communities are distinct from those in the sediment or how these communities change over space and time. We used the methanogen‐specific phylogenetic marker mcrA to perform a 3‐year study focusing on the community structure of methanogens within the sediment and anoxic hypolimnion water layer of five humic lakes in WI, USA. The hypolimnion and sediment communities were distinct in composition, richness and phylogenetic diversity. Hypolimnion communities displayed a temporally stable biogeographical pattern among lakes, which was driven by both lake‐specific environmental variables and barriers to dispersal. We conclude that the hypolimnion comprised communities of methanogens that are distinct from those in the sediment, differentiated among lakes, and likely have unique ecological roles and evolutionary trajectories in these anaerobic environments.
Are the specialized bird ticks, Ixodes arboricola and I. frontalis, competent vectors for Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato?
Authors: Heylen Dieter , Sprong Hein , van Oers Kees , Fonville Manoj , Leirs Herwig , Matthysen Erik
Published: November 2013

Our study tested whether two European bird‐specialized ticks, Ixodes arboricola and I. frontalis, can act as vectors in the transmission cycles of Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. The ticks have contrasting ecologies but share songbird hosts (such as the great tit, Parus major) with the generalist I. ricinus which may therefore act as a bridging vector. In the first phase of the experiment, we obtained Borrelia‐infected ornithophilic nymphs by exposing larvae to great tits that had previously been exposed to I. ricinus nymphs carrying a community of genospecies (Borrelia garinii, valaisiana, afzelii, burgdorferi s.s., spielmanii). Skin samples showed that birds selectively amplified B. garinii and B. valaisiana. The spirochetes were transmitted to the ornithophilic ticks and survived moulting, leading to infection rates of 16% and 27% in nymphs of I. arboricola and I. frontalis respectively. In the second phase, pathogen‐free great tits were exposed to the Borrelia‐infected ornithophilic nymphs. None of these ticks were able to infect the birds, as indicated by the tissue samples. Analysis of xenodiagnostic I. ricinus larvae found no evidence for co‐feeding or systemic transmission of B. burgdorferi s.l. These outcomes do not support the occurrence of enzootic cycles of Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. involving songbirds and their specialized ornithophilic ticks.
The MAPKK FgMkk1 of Fusarium graminearum regulates vegetative differentiation, multiple stress response, and virulence via the cell wall integrity and high‐osmolarity glycerol signaling pathways
Authors: Yun Yingzi , Liu Zunyong , Zhang Jingze , Shim Won‐Bo , Chen Yun , Ma Zhonghua
Published: November 2013

Mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinases play crucial roles in regulating fungal development, growth and pathogenicity, and in responses to the environment. In this study, we characterized a MAP kinase kinase FgMkk1 in Fusarium graminearum, the causal agent of wheat head blight. Phenotypic analyses of the FgMKK1 mutant (ΔFgMKK1) showed that FgMkk1 is involved in the regulation of hyphal growth, pigmentation, conidiation, deoxynivalenol biosynthesis and virulence of F. graminearum. ΔFgMKK1 also showed increased sensitivity to cell wall‐damaging agents, and to osmotic and oxidative stresses, but exhibited decreased sensitivity to the fungicides iprodione and fludioxonil. In addition, the mutant revealed increased sensitivity to a biocontrol agent, Trichoderma atroviride. Western blot assays revealed that FgMkk1 positively regulates phosphorylation of the MAP kinases Mgv1 and FgOs‐2, the key component in the cell wall integrity (CWI) and high‐osmolarity glycerol (HOG) signalling pathway respectively. Yeast two‐hybrid assay indicated that Mgv1 interacts with a transcription factor FgRlm1. The FgRLM1 mutant (ΔFgRLM1) showed increased sensitivity to cell wall‐damaging agents and exhibited decreased virulence. Taken together, our data indicated that FgMkk1 is an upstream component of Mgv1, and regulates vegetative differentiation, multiple stress response and virulence via the CWI and HOG signalling pathways. FgRlm1 may be a downstream component of Mgv1 in the CWI pathway in F. graminearum.
Detection of c‐kit mutational status in small‐cell lung cancer in a Chinese cohort
Authors: Cheng Ying , Li Hui , Ma Lixia , Zhang Shuang , Yan Shi , Zhu Jing , Wang Sheng , Zhang Rui , Niu Kai , Liu Yawen
Published: November 2013

Background

Overexpression of KIT (CD117), a tyrosine kinase receptor, and its natural ligand, stem cell factor, are found in small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC). Somatic mutations of the proto‐oncogene c‐kit constitutively activate KIT expression in a ligand‐independent way. To explore the clinical value of the c‐kit mutation as a potential target for therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors, the c‐kit mutational status and KIT expression in tumors from Chinese patients with SCLC were analyzed.

Methods

Using 107 paraffin‐embedded SCLC tumor specimens, c‐kit exons 9, 11, 13, and 17 were analyzed for mutations by polymerase chain reaction and direct sequencing.

Results

There were no activating mutations in exons 9, 11, 13, or 17. However, a point mutation in intron 16 (81240 G>A) was found in 11 out of the 107 samples (10.3%), of which the majority were limited‐stage SCLC (10/11, 90.9%). Immunohistochemical staining of tumors harboring the c‐kit point mutation using the anti‐CD117 antibody showed that the mutation status was not associated with the expression of KIT.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that the incidence and the types of c‐kit mutations in SCLC tumors found in Chinese are different from those of the Caucasian population. Nevertheless, c‐kit mutations are similarly rare in both groups, implying that they may not be suitable targets for c‐kit‐based tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Differential Role of D1 and D2 Receptors in the Perifornical Lateral Hypothalamus in Controlling Ethanol Drinking and Food Intake: Possible Interaction with Local Orexin Neurons
Authors: Chen Yu‐Wei , Morganstern Irene , Barson Jessica R. , Hoebel Bartley G. , Leibowitz Sarah F.
Published: November 2013

Background

The neurotransmitter dopamine (DA), acting in various mesolimbic brain regions, is well known for its role in promoting motivated behaviors, including ethanol (EtOH) drinking. Indirect evidence, however, suggests that DA in the perifornical lateral hypothalamus (PF/LH) has differential effects on EtOH consumption, depending on whether it acts on the DA 1 (D1) or DA 2 (D2) receptor subtype, and that these effects are mediated in part by local peptide systems, such as orexin/hypocretin (OX) and melanin‐concentrating hormone (MCH), known to stimulate the consumption of EtOH.

Methods

The present study in brain‐cannulated Sprague‐Dawley rats measured the effects of dopaminergic compounds in the PF/LH on drinking behavior in animals trained to consume 7% EtOH and also on local peptide mRNA expression using digoxigenin‐labeled in situ hybridization in EtOH‐naïve animals.

Results

Experiments 1 and 2 showed that the D1 agonist SKF81297 (10.8 nmol/side) in the PF/LH significantly increased food intake, while tending to increase EtOH intake, and the D1 antagonist SCH23390 significantly decreased EtOH intake without affecting food intake. In contrast, the D2 agonist quinelorane (6.2 nmol/side) in the PF/LH significantly reduced EtOH consumption, while the D2 antagonist sulpiride increased it. Experiments 3 and 4 revealed differential effects of PF/LH injection of the DA agonists on local OX mRNA, which was increased by the D1 agonist and decreased by the D2 agonist. These DA agonists had no impact on MCH expression.

Conclusions

These results support a stimulatory role of the PF/LH D1 receptor in promoting the consumption of both EtOH and food, in contrast to a suppressive effect of the D2 receptor on EtOH drinking. They further suggest that these receptors affect consumption, in part, through local OX‐expressing neurons. These findings provide new evidence for the function of PF/LH DA receptor subtypes in controlling EtOH and food intake.
Genetic differentiation of southeast Baltic populations of sea trout inferred from single nucleotide polymorphisms
Authors: Poćwierz‐Kotus A. , Bernaś R. , Dębowski P. , Kent M. P. , Lien S. , Kesler M. , Titov S. , Leliūna E. , Jespersen H. , Drywa A. , Wenne R.
Published: November 2013

Sea trout (Salmo trutta m. trutta) is a migratory form of brown trout common in the Baltic Sea. Nine populations from the southeast Baltic (Poland; Lithuania; Denmark, Bornholm; Estonia and Russia) were genotyped using iPLEX Gold technology (Sequenom) with 62 informative SNPs. A diagnostic panel of 23 SNPs was applied to estimate genetic differentiation and assess the population structure of Baltic sea trout. The highest level of pairwise FST differences was observed between the Russian (East Gulf of Finland) and Polish (Baltic main basin) populations. The lowest differences were between the two Polish and the Polish and Lithuanian populations. A genetic similarity was noted between the Estonian Riguldi River and Danish Bornholm populations, and this finding was supported by a Bayesian and factorial correspondence analysis. Diversity within populations was highest for populations from Estonia and lowest for the Lithuanian population. Genetic structure analysis indicated that individuals from the nine populations were clustered into four groups.
Artificial Biometric Finger Driven by Shape‐Memory Alloy Wires
Authors: Silva André Fellipe Cavalcante , dos Santos Alexsandro José Virgínio , Souto Cícero da Rocha , de Araújo Carlos José , da Silva Simplício Arnaud
Published: November 2013

This paper presents the design and testing of an artificial finger based partly on biomechanics. The prototype was manufactured in acrylonitrile butadiene styrene plastic using a rapid prototyping three‐dimensional printer. The flexing of the finger was realized by Ni‐Ti shape‐memory alloy (SMA) wires with diameters of 0.3 mm, activated by resistive heating. The results obtained show the new prototype to be superior in performance, mainly in terms of angles of rotation of the phalanges, compared with some SMA fingers discussed in the literature.
Study of a Centrifugal Blood Pump in a Mock Loop System
Authors: Uebelhart Beatriz , da Silva Bruno Utiyama , Fonseca Jeison , Bock Eduardo , Leme Juliana , da Silva Cibele , Leão Tarcísio , Andrade Aron
Published: November 2013

An implantable centrifugal blood pump (ICBP) is being developed to be used as a ventricular assist device (VAD) in patients with severe cardiovascular diseases. The ICBP system is composed of a centrifugal pump, a motor, a controller, and a power supply. The electricity source provides power to the controller and to a motor that moves the pump's rotor through magnetic coupling. The centrifugal pump is composed of four parts: external conical house, external base, impeller, and impeller base. The rotor is supported by a pivot bearing system, and its impeller base is responsible for sheltering four permanent magnets. A hybrid cardiovascular simulator (HCS) was used to evaluate the ICBP's performance. A heart failure (HF) (when the heart increases beat frequency to compensate for decrease in blood flow) was simulated in the HCS. The main objective of this work is to analyze changes in physiological parameters such as cardiac output, blood pressure, and heart rate in three situations: healthy heart, HF, and HF with left circulatory assistance by ICBP. The results showed that parameters such as aortic pressure and cardiac output affected by the HF situation returned to normal values when the ICBP was connected to the HCS. In conclusion, the test results showed satisfactory performance for the ICBP as a VAD.
Development, Characterization, and Cellular Adhesion of Poly(l‐Lactic Acid)/Poly(Caprolactone Triol) Membranes for Potential Application in Bone Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Mistura Daniel V. , Messias André D. , Duek Eliana A.R. , Duarte Márcia A.T.
Published: November 2013

Poly(l‐lactide)/poly(caprolactone triol) (PLLA/PCL‐T) membranes were prepared by solution casting in 100/0, 90/10, and 70/30 (w/w) ratios. The membranes were analyzed by dynamic mechanical analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and mechanical tests. The thermal analysis showed that the 90/10 and 70/30 preparations were partly miscible systems. The glass transition temperature (Tg) of PLLA decreases as the PCL‐T concentration increases, which implies that PCL‐T has a plasticizer function. An in vitro study with osteoblastic cells isolated from the calvariae of rats was performed in all preparations. The results obtained in this study showed that the addition of PCL‐T to the PLLA matrix modifies its mechanical, thermal, and biological properties. These blends could be useful for tissue engineering for bone applications.
Investigating the effects of conscientiousness on daily stress, affect and physical symptom processes: A daily diary study
Authors: Gartland Nicola , O'Connor Daryl B. , Lawton Rebecca , Ferguson Eamonn
Published: November 2013

Objectives

Higher conscientiousness (C) predicts better health outcomes. Recent research suggests that stress may play an important role in explaining this relationship. The current study aimed to establish whether C moderates the relationship between daily hassle appraisals, daily affect, and physical symptoms.

Design and Methods

A daily diary design was used, where participants (N = 103) completed a baseline measure of C followed by a 14‐day daily diary, providing daily details of hassles (primary and secondary appraisals) experienced as well as positive and negative affect and physical symptoms.

Results

Hierarchical linear modelling revealed that Total C (as well as two facets of C: Order and Industriousness) moderated the relationship between stress appraisals and positive affect. Specifically, the negative association between the daily appraisal of hassles as stressful (i.e., where perceived demands outweighed perceived resources) and positive affect was stronger for lower and average levels of C, Order, and Industriousness. No significant moderated effects were found for negative affect or physical symptoms. The Order facet was also found to be an important factor predicting attrition.

Conclusions

The current study provided evidence that C and two of its facets can moderate the relationship between hassle appraisal and positive affect. C may exert part of its influence on health by modifying the effects of daily stressors.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject? Conscientiousness has a significant positive effect on longevity and health status. While the performance of health behaviours may partially account for this relationship, evidence suggests that it does not fully mediate the effect. Research has begun to look at stress as a possible additional explanatory variable, and there is evidence that Conscientiousness moderates the relationship between stress and health behaviours.

What does this study add?

Shows that Conscientiousness and two of its facets (Order and Industriousness) moderate the relationship between hassle appraisal and positive affect.

Highlights the importance of studying lower order facets of personality in health research.

Suggests that Conscientiousness may exert part of its influence on health by modifying the effects of daily stressors.
Amino‐terminal fragments of laminin γ2 chain retract vascular endothelial cells and increase vascular permeability
Authors: Sato Hiroki , Oyanagi Jun , Komiya Eriko , Ogawa Takashi , Higashi Shouichi , Miyazaki Kaoru
Published: November 2013

Laminin γ2 (Lmγ2) chain, a subunit of laminin‐332, is a typical molecular marker of invading cancer cells, and its expression correlates with poor prognosis of cancer patients. It was previously found that forced expression of Lmγ2 in cancer cells promotes their invasive growth in nude mice. However, the mechanism of the tumor‐promoting activity of Lmγ2 remains unknown. Here we investigated the interaction between Lmγ2 and vascular endothelial cells. When treated with an N‐terminal proteolytic fragment of γ2 (γ2pf), HUVECs became markedly retracted or shrunken. The overexpression of Lmγ2 or treatment with γ2pf stimulated T‐24 bladder carcinoma cells to invade into the HUVEC monolayer and enhanced their transendothelial migration in vitro. Moreover, γ2pf increased endothelial permeability in vitro and in vivo. As the possible mechanisms, γ2pf activated ERK and p38 MAPK but inactivated Akt in HUVECs. Such effects of γ2pf led to prominent actin stress fiber formation in HUVECs, which was blocked by a ROCK inhibitor. In addition, γ2pf induced delocalization of VE‐cadherin and β‐catenin from the intercellular junction. As possible receptors, γ2pf interacted with heparan sulfate proteoglycans on the surface of HUVECs. Moreover, we localized the active site of γ2pf to the N‐terminal epidermal growth factor‐like repeat. These data suggest that the interaction between γ2pf and heparan sulfate proteoglycans induces cytoskeletal changes of endothelial cells, leading to the loss of endothelial barrier function and the enhanced transendothelial migration of cancer cells. These activities of Lmγ2 seem to support the aberrant growth of cancer cells.
Why computational models are better than verbal theories: the case of nonword repetition
Authors: Jones Gary , Gobet Fernand , Freudenthal Daniel , Watson Sarah E. , Pine Julian M.
Published: November 2013

Tests of nonword repetition (NWR) have often been used to examine children's phonological knowledge and word learning abilities. However, theories of NWR primarily explain performance either in terms of phonological working memory or long‐term knowledge, with little consideration of how these processes interact. One theoretical account that focuses specifically on the interaction between short‐term and long‐term memory is the chunking hypothesis. Chunking occurs because of repeated exposure to meaningful stimulus items, resulting in the items becoming grouped (or chunked); once chunked, the items can be represented in short‐term memory using one chunk rather than one chunk per item. We tested several predictions of the chunking hypothesis by presenting 5–6‐year‐old children with three tests of NWR that were either high, medium, or low in wordlikeness. The results did not show strong support for the chunking hypothesis, suggesting that chunking fails to fully explain children's NWR behavior. However, simulations using a computational implementation of chunking (namely CLASSIC, or Chunking Lexical And Sub‐lexical Sequences In Children) show that, when the linguistic input to 5–6‐year‐old children is estimated in a reasonable way, the children's data are matched across all three NWR tests. These results have three implications for the field: (a) a chunking account can explain key NWR phenomena in 5–6‐year‐old children; (b) tests of chunking accounts require a detailed specification both of the chunking mechanism itself and of the input on which the chunking mechanism operates; and (c) verbal theories emphasizing the role of long‐term knowledge (such as chunking) are not precise enough to make detailed predictions about experimental data, but computational implementations of the theories can bridge the gap.
Infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy caused by uniparental disomy
Authors: Solomons Joyce , Ridgway Oliver , Hardy Carol , Kurian Manju , Jayawant Sandeep , Hughes Sarah , Pretorius Pieter , Németh Andrea H
Published: November 2013

Infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy (INAD) is a rare autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder caused by mutations in the phospholipase A2 group 6 (Pla2G6) gene. Affected individuals usually present between the ages of 6 months and 2 years with rapid cognitive and motor regression and axial hypotonia. Gait disturbance, limb spasticity, cerebellar signs, and optic atrophy are other common features associated with INAD. Although magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can sometimes contribute towards the diagnosis, the confirmation of INAD is by Pla2G6 gene analysis. In this case report, we describe the first individual (female) with INAD due to a combination of uniparental heterodisomy and isodisomy; we discuss the possible underlying mechanism and highlight the importance of parental carrier testing in accurately predicting the recurrence risk in these families. We also confirm the recent report of hypertrophy of the clava (also known as the ‘gracile tubercle’) as a useful MRI sign in INAD.
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with mortality in patients with advanced liver cirrhosis
Authors: Stokes Caroline S. , Krawczyk Marcin , Reichel Christoph , Lammert Frank , Grünhage Frank
Published: November 2013

Background

Chronic liver disease is the fifth most common cause of mortality in Europe. Recently, vitamin D deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of mortality in the general population. As patients with advanced liver disease frequently exhibit vitamin D deficiency, we assessed for a possible association of vitamin D deficiency with survival in a cohort of patients with advanced liver disease.

Methods

Sixty‐five patients with liver cirrhosis (median age, 58 years; range, 19–76 years; 66% male; Child‐Pugh stage C, 46%) were included in our prospective single‐centre survival study. Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D concentrations were measured by chemiluminescence immunoassay. The optimal cut‐off was determined using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and Kaplan‐Meier analysis. Chi‐square statistics and multivariate binary logistic regression analysis were also conducted.

Results

Median serum vitamin D levels were 8·2 ng/mL (range <4·0–95·8 ng/mL). Overall, 48% of patients (31/65) died during a 24‐month follow‐up period. ROC analysis determined a vitamin D level of 6·0 ng/mL as optimal cut‐off for discriminating survivors from nonsurvivors. Kaplan–Meier analysis of survival confirmed low vitamin D levels as significant predictor of death (P = 0·012). Finally, multivariate analysis identified low vitamin D levels (OR = 6·3; 95% CI, 1·2–31·2; P = 0·012) and MELD scores (OR = 1·4; 95% CI, 1·2–1·7; P < 0·001) as independent predictors of survival.

Conclusion

Low vitamin D levels are associated with increased mortality in patients with advanced liver disease. Thus, serum levels of vitamin D might represent a critical marker of survival in advanced liver cirrhosis.
Association between reduced kidney function and clinical outcomes after ischaemic stroke with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Wang D. , Liu M. , Hao Z. , Tao W.
Published: November 2013

Background and purpose

Atrial fibrillation (AF) can cause up to 50% of cardioembolic strokes and its effects may be exacerbated by chronic kidney disease. Our aim was to investigate the influence of reduced renal function on death, disability and stroke recurrence in stroke patients with AF in China.

Methods

In this prospective study, patients with ischaemic stroke and AF who were admitted within 1 month of stroke onset between January 2003 and February 2007 were consecutively enrolled. Patients were classified as having a reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) or normal eGFR, and clinical characteristics, functional outcomes and stroke recurrence were compared between the two groups.

Results

A total of 229 patients were analyzed in the study, of whom 105 (45.9%) had reduced eGFR. These patients were more likely to be female, non‐smokers and non‐drinkers than were patients in the normal eGFR group (all P ≤ 0.002). Patients with reduced eGFR showed approximately 2‐fold higher risk of death at 3, 6 and 12 months after stroke onset than did patients with normal eGFR (all P ≤ 0.042), after adjusting for age, sex and stroke severity on admission. However, the two groups showed similar 1‐year cumulative stroke recurrence (P = 0.331, log rank test).

Conclusions

Reduced eGFR was independently associated with increased risk of death in patients with ischaemic stroke and AF. The association between reduced eGFR and risk of stroke recurrence needs to be explored in larger studies.
Comparison of primary vaccination regimes for equine influenza: Working towards an evidence‐based regime
Authors: Cullinane A. , Gildea S. , Weldon E.
Published: November 2013

Reasons for performing study

Vaccination is crucial to the control of equine influenza (EI). The study was conducted in an effort to lay the groundwork for achieving international harmonisation of regulatory requirements based on scientific evidence of performance of different vaccination regimes.

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness of 3 different primary vaccination regimes: vaccination with the minimal intervals permitted by the racing authorities; vaccination in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and vaccination with the longest intervals permitted by the racing authorities.

Study design

Randomised, prospective clinical trial.

Methods

The 55 seronegative unvaccinated horses in this study were subdivided by age and randomly allocated one of the 3 vaccination regimes. All groups were sampled each time a group was vaccinated and 3–5 weeks post vaccination. Horses were vaccinated with a subunit immune stimulating complex‐based vaccine (Equip FT). Antibodies against EI were measured by single radial haemolysis.

Results

Lengthening the vaccination intervals increased the immunity gaps between first (V1) and second (V2) doses, and V2 and third dose (V3) but did not inhibit the response to V2 and V3. The response to V2 and V3 was similar irrespective of the regime. Poor responders to V1 were identified in all age groups included in this study but the greatest number of poor responders was among the yearlings. The 2‐ and 3‐year‐old horses responded better to vaccination than the weanlings or yearlings.

Conclusions

Longer vaccination intervals permitted by racing authorities increase the periods of susceptibility to EI but they may facilitate strategic vaccination prior to times of increased risk of exposure to virus. The study provides the type of evidence‐based data necessary to commence meaningful discussion of international harmonisation of EI vaccination requirements.
The effect of individual education on patients’ physical activity capacity after myocardial infarction
Authors: Uysal Hilal , Ozcan Şeyda
Published: November 2013

The present study aims to determine the effects of individual education and counselling given to first‐time myocardial infarction patients, including its effect on compliance with treatment. The sample comprised 90 patients, 45 in the intervention and 45 in the control group, selected by sequential sampling from first‐time myocardial infarction patients. Data were collected between April and November 2008 by means of patient information form, International Physical Activity Questionnaire, 6 min walk test, Modified Borg Scale, Morisky Medication Adherence Scale and Canadian Cardiovascular Society Angina Grade Classification. In the intervention group more improvement was observed in comparison with the control group in terms of frequency of physical activity, body mass index and waist circumference. It was observed that the intervention group's metabolic equivalent of task values and 6 min walk test distance increased more in comparison with the control group 3 months after baseline, and there was a statistically significant difference. The results indicated that individual education and counselling provided to patients having experienced acute myocardial infarction increased functional capacity by providing patients with advice on how to lose weight and by improving compliance with treatment through physical activity behaviours (frequency and duration).
Managing cancer‐related fatigue in men with prostate cancer: A systematic review of non‐pharmacological interventions
Authors: Larkin David , Lopez Violeta , Aromataris Edoardo
Published: November 2013

The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize the best available evidence informing the effectiveness of non‐pharmacological interventions for managing cancer‐related fatigue in men treated for prostate cancer. This review considered experimental studies that included men with prostate cancer (regardless of staging, previous treatment or comorbidities), aged 18 years and over who were undergoing any treatment, or had completed any treatment for prostate cancer within the previous 12 months. Three interventions were identified for the management of cancer‐related fatigue in men with prostate cancer. Evidence from five studies including 447 participants demonstrates the effectiveness of physical activity, both aerobic and resistance exercise, and from three studies including 153 participants suggesting the benefits of psychosocial interventions including education and cognitive behavioural therapy. Health professionals require knowledge of a range of effective interventions aimed at reducing cancer‐related fatigue in men with prostate cancer and should incorporate those interventions into their patient management. Although physical activity appears to show the greatest benefit, other non‐pharmacological interventions such as education and cognitive behavioural therapy have demonstrated benefit and should also be considered as a strategy in treating this debilitating side effect of cancer and its treatment.
Multifocal motor neuropathy and muscle hypertrophy
Authors: Geevasinga N. , Day B. , Ng K.
Published: November 2013

Multifocal motor neuropathy is frequently an asymmetrical neuropathy predominantly affecting the upper limbs. Patients present with weakness, fasciculations and distal muscle wasting. Hypertrophy of muscles is very infrequently reported. We present two cases of multifocal motor neuropathy with upper limb muscle hypertrophy and discuss possible pathophysiological mechanisms. Botulinum toxin may be useful to alleviate cramp.
Demonstrable professionalism: linking patient‐centred care and revalidation
Authors: Phelps G. , Dalton S.
Published: November 2013

The move by the Medical Board of Australia to commence a conversation with the medical profession about revalidation reflects that patient‐centred care is at the heart of good medical practice. Patients judge their doctors’ commitment to them based on whether their individual interactions with doctors meet their needs. We argue that ensuring that doctors are continuing to perform at a level that the community regards as acceptable is a demonstration of an individual doctor's professionalism and thus their commitment to patient‐centred care. This impacts on the profession as a whole, which needs to commit to what we call ‘demonstrable professionalism’ – the ongoing and active demonstration of performance that the community regards as acceptable. This needs to be supported by organisations in which doctors work, reflecting the importance of organisational context to clinical practice. Revalidation processes thus need both to reflect the work of doctors and be meaningful to the community. The move to consider revalidation of doctors by regulatory authorities should not be seen by the profession as a threat, but more as an opportunity to demonstrate the profession's commitment to patient‐centred care.
Allocative downside risk aversion
Authors: Watt Richard , Vazquez Francisco J.
Published: November 2013

The literature on the intensity of downside risk aversion has been clear on the point that greater prudence is not equivalent to greater downside risk aversion, although the two concepts are linked. In the present paper, we present a new concept of the downside risk aversion of a decision maker, namely the fraction of a zero‐mean risk that the decision maker would optimally place on the upside. We then consider how this measure can be used to identify the intensity of downside risk aversion. Specifically, we show that greater downside risk aversion in our model can be accurately measured by a relationship that is very similar to, although somewhat stronger than, greater prudence.
Bargaining and delay in patent licensing
Authors: Mauleon Ana , Vannetelbosch Vincent , Vergari Cecilia
Published: November 2013

We consider a model for licensing a non‐drastic innovation in which the patent holder (an outside innovator) negotiates either up‐front fixed fees or per‐unit royalties with two firms producing horizontally differentiated brands and competingà laCournot. We investigate how licensing schemes (fixed fee or per‐unit royalty) and the number of licenses sold (exclusive licensing or complete technology diffusion) affect price agreements and delays in reaching an agreement. We show that, under complete information, the patent holder prefers to license by means of up‐front fixed fees whatever the degree of product differentiation, the innovation size and the level of bargaining power. Once there is private information about the relative bargaining power of the parties, the patent holder may prefer licensing by means of per‐unit royalties even if market competition is strong. Moreover, the delay in reaching an agreement is greater whenever the patent holder chooses to negotiate up‐front fixed fees instead of per‐unit royalties.
Market imperfection and international trade in a dynamic economy
Authors: Choi Jai‐Young , Yu Eden S. H.
Published: November 2013

This paper examines the implications of product market imperfection for a dynamic economy in a two‐commodity and two‐factor open economy model in which the home country produces a consumption good (capital good) in a perfectly competitive (monopolistic) market. Based on a social utility function of constant elasticity of substitution variety, excess demand for the goods, volume of trade, and patterns of specialization are analyzed vis‐à‐vis the standard case where the capital‐good market is perfectly competitive. Further, it is shown that the presence of imperfect capital‐good market structure does not preclude the possibility of long‐run steady‐state economic growth.
EVER‐Acta lecture: Telomere maintenance and retinal vascularisation
Authors: KIVELÄ T
Published: November 2013

Abnormal development of the retinal vasculature is an important cause of vision loss in infancy, childhood and, occasionally, in adult life. In addition to retinopathy of prematurity from exposure to oxygen after preterm birth, several genetic defects affecting retinal vascularization have recently been discovered, affecting either Wnt signaling or telomere maintenance. The canonical norrin–beta‐catenin pathway of Wnt signaling is deranged by mutations in frizzeld‐4 (FZD4), low density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 5 (LRP5), norrin (NDP) and other genes. These lead to vascular leakage, vitreoretinal traction or both in Coats’ disease, familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR), Norrie’s disease and osteoporosis‐pseudoglioma syndrome. Mutations in telomeric repeat‐binding factor 1‐interacting nuclear factor 2 (TINF2) and CTS telomere maintenance complex component 1 (CTC1) in Revesz syndrome and cerebroretinal microangiopathy with calcifications and cysts (CRMCC) can even cause retinal angiomas. Wnt signaling initially was the suspect for them as well, because all six diseases share more or less widespread retinal avascularity as a hallmark. Indeed, a link between the two pathways is still possible. The manifestations of the telomere‐related syndromes are more protean than those of Wnt‐related ones, which have no other significant systemic findings than osteoporosis if LRP5 is mutated. The former may lead to a cerebral and intestinal vasculopathy or hepatopathy, all of which can be fatal, and to skin and hair abnormalities. Milder forms can escape diagnosis until adulthood. It is useful to recognize these genetic vasculopathies. Genes for cases which still go unexplained remain to be discovered.
ILM peeling or not ‐ The best dye
Authors: POURNARAS JA
Published: November 2013

The decision to peel or not ILM remains major controversy in macular hole surgery. A critical review of advantages and inconvenients will be discussed, as ILM peeling has been suggested to reduce retinal sensitivity when performed during surgery. Furthermore, we will review the different available dyes in order to peel the ILM in safe conditions.
What are we doing in difficult cases (Not closed, Myopic, Large)?
Authors: PAPPAS G
Published: November 2013

Macular hole surgery results are generally very good. The closing rate is almost 92%. Patient can gain significant vision. There is though a group of difficult cases. The very large, the myopic macular holes and the redo cases. Traditional and novel techniques will be proposed in order to get the optimal anatomical and functional result.
Mechanism of macular hole closure
Authors: REPPUCCI V
Published: November 2013

Purpose: To outline the mechanism of closure in macular hole surgery: specifically the importance of deforming the fluid‐air interface at the edges of the macular hole. This will provide a basis for understanding of how vitrectomy effects macular hole closure. Successful macular hole closure occurs when a fluid interface contacts, and is deformed, by the edges of the hole; generating a “surface of tension” (force), which exceeds the “stiffness” of the retina, allowing for reapproximation of the hole edges along the inner retina. Mechanical barriers, such as posterior hyaloid or vitreous, may reduce the interface deformation and transmittal of these forces to the inner retinal surface; peeling ILM or manipulating the hole edge may reduce the “stiffness” of the retina requiring less force to achieve closure. Larger bubbles increase the macular hole interface contact angle creating interface deformation, and force generation, at the hole edge over a greater range of eye position. Conclusion: Macular holes close by a "bridging" along the inner retinal surface with migration assisted by the capillary forces generated by fluid‐air interface deformation at the edges of the macular hole.
Update on ocular surface disorders in aniridia
Authors: BREMOND‐GIGNAC D
Published: November 2013

Aniridia is a rare bilateral ocular disorder occurring at a frequency of approximately 1 in 80 000. Aniridia is a panophthalmic disease. About one third of these aniridia are sporadic, with many variable expressivities of the features. PAX6 gene anomalies with 11p13 mutations or deletion are involved in aniridia. PAX6 mutations result in alterations in corneal cytokeratin expression, cell adhesion and glycoconjugate expression. Ocular anomalies in aniridia commonly associates cataract, glaucoma, nystagmus, ptosis and ocular surface. Mechanism of limbal stem cell insufficiency will be exposed and often correlated to reduced corneal sensitivity. Therapeutic options will be discussed.
Update on corneal dystrophies in children
Authors: CHIAMBARETTA F
Published: November 2013

Abstract not provided
Structure in glaucoma? Yes I can!
Authors: SUNARIC MEGEVAND G
Published: November 2013

This course is designed for young ophthalmologists and will give the opportunity to discuss aspects of the structure and structural changes of the optic nerve head and the retinal nerve fiber layer related to glaucoma and the alteration of the visual function related to this disease. In the last few years there is increasing evidence of the importance of structural measurements particularly early in the disease, and combining information from structure and function can significantly improve detection and assessment of glaucoma progression. Different tools and new technologies for measuring structural changes will be discussed in details such as stereo‐ photographs, HRT, GDx and OCT.
Retinal oximetry methodology
Authors: HARDARSON S
Published: November 2013

Disturbances in retinal oxygenation are believed to play an important role in several eye diseases, such as retinal vessel occlusions, diabetic retinopathy and retinopathy of prematurity. Non‐invasive measurements of retinal oxygenation are important for better understanding of disease mechanisms and the technology will hopefully, in the near future, aid in management of the diseases. The technology for retinal oximetry has been developed in the past years and decades and the current oximeters are sensitive to changes in oxygen saturation and give repeatable results. Studies have confirmed differences in retinal vessel oxygen saturation in various eye diseases. Further studies of retinal oxygenation will benefit from development of the methodology. This includes hardware and software development but also standardisation of measurement techniques with the current instruments and better understanding of confounding factors.

Commercial interest
Determination of macular pigment
Authors: BERENDSCHOT T
Published: November 2013

In 1994 ago Seddon et al. observed an inverse association between a diet with a high content of the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, and the prevalence of age‐related macular degeneration. This finding triggered an interest in the macular pigment, since it is solely composed of these two carotenoids. Macular pigment is concentrated in the central area of the retina along the axons of the cone photoreceptors. There are some plausible arguments to assume it exerts a protective effect in the retinal area: It acts as a blue light filter, absorbing between 390 and 540 nm, thereby decreasing chances for photochemical light damage. In addition, macular pigment is capable of scavenging free radicals. In this talk all existing measurement techniques will be discussed to determine the macular pigment optical density and its spatial distribution.
In vivo cell‐scale imaging of the human retina by adaptive optics
Authors: PAQUES M
Published: November 2013

Diagnosis and monitoring of retinal diseases, the most important causes of blindness in developed countries, is largely based on accurate imaging of the retina. We have been using a flood imaging, commercially available AO camera (rtx1 from ImagineEye) to examine a variety of retinal diseases. Geographic atrophy can be detected at a very early stage under the form of patches of depigmented RPE filled with numerous clumps of melanin. Time‐lapse imaging show the progression of atrophy at a very small spatial and temporal scale, as well as the motion of melanin clumps within and outside atrophic areas. Diabetic microaneurysms can be distinguished from hemorrages. Epiretinal membranes can be observed under the form of small star‐like hyperreflective spots. Finally, parietal remodelling of small arteries following arterial hypertension can be detected, which may provide a novel quantitative biomarker. To sum up, while AO imaging was originally used for photoreceptor imaging, its scope is now extending. AO fundus imaging will probably establish itself as a reference methodology for early detection and monitoring of a variety of retinal diseases.
Signs and symptoms of uveitis
Authors: NERI P , CAPUANO V , PIRANI V , ARAPI I , MARIOTTI C , GIOVANNINI A
Published: November 2013

Uveitis is a potentially sight‐threatening disease and can be categorized into: anterior, intermediate, posterior, and panuveitis. The onset of uveitis can be either acute or insidious, involving one or both eyes. The commonest ocular symptoms are: blurred vision, ocular pain, photophobia and floaters, depending on the type of uveitis. Posterior uveitis is usually associated with vitritis. Anterior chamber cells and flare should be graded according to standardized uveitis nomenclature (SUN) working group. Binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy (BIO) score is used to grade vitreous involvement. Vitreous changes may comprehend: vitreous hemorrhage, vitreous strands, and vitreous traction. A further classification of posterior uveitis depends on the primary site of inflammation, which can identify: retinitis, choroiditis, retinochoroiditis, and chorioretinitis. Posterior pole uveal involvement can be: focal, multifocal, and placoid. Retinal vasculitis can be associated with several sub‐types of posterior uveitis. Uveitis can present several complications such as, anterior and posterior synechiae, which can lead to uveitic glaucoma, cystoid macular oedema, retinal and choroidal neovascularizations, and retinal ischemia.
Laboratory work‐up and specialized investigations
Authors: PLEYER U
Published: November 2013

Based on the anatomical involvement of the eye intraocular inflammation is classified into anterior, intermediate, posterior and panuveitis. All subtypes of uveitis are potentially related to infectious and noninfectious etiologies. This presentation will assist the participants in accurately diagnosing uveitis in a step latter approach including physical and laboratory investigations. In addition, a tailored approach based on confounding clinical observations with specialized investigations will help to further differentiate clinical entities. In cases of suspected intraocular infections the option of intraocular fluid evaluation for antibody testing and polymerase chain testing against the causative agent will be presented. Taken together, this part of the course will provide a rational decision‐making strategy for diagnosis of patients with uveitis.
Therapeutic management of uveitis
Authors: DICK A
Published: November 2013

This talk will overview the contemporary therapeutic approaches to treatment of non‐infectious non‐infective ocular inflammatory disease. Treatment of non‐infectious uveitis has over past 15 years expanded from the use of traditional therapies including corticosteroids and immunosuppressants to the deployment of targetting the immune response with biologic therapies with monoclonal antibodies and immunoadhesins. Such use will be exemplified with case reports during the talk. Evidence of efficacy of immunosuppressants in the treatment of uveitis, the role of predicting steroid responsiveness, the use of monotherapy with immunosuppression and finally the pathways and evidence of success of biologic therapy will be provided.
The initial consult
Authors: SPILEERS W
Published: November 2013

Patients with unvoluntary eye movements frequently consult an ophthalmologist. A correct diagnosis of the type and etiology is important. A clinical approach with selected technical examinations is mandatory for a correct diagnostic approach. Isolated ophthalmological and combined neurological elements can be identified to guide the further approach. Conclusions A practical work‐up of a patient presenting with nystagmus will be presented. Frequently the collaboration with the neurologist is important.
The neurological approach
Authors: KAWASAKI A
Published: November 2013

Abnormal eye movements with or without subjective oscillopsia may be a the first manifestation of serious ocular or intracranial pathology or toxicity. This talk will focus on identifying those in which early diagnosis and/or treatment is important in the overall prognosis of the patient.
The mechanisms of the action of omega‐3s in the retina
Authors: ACAR N
Published: November 2013

Age‐related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of visual loss in Western countries after the age of 50y. Based on large‐scale epidemiologic studies, it appears now as evident that omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) provide benefits in preventing both, early and late stages of AMD. The aim of this paper is to summarize the knowledge about the biological mechanisms by which omega‐3 PUFAs may be protective for the retina. The content of this presentation will range from biochemical data about the occurrence of omega‐3 PUFAs in retinal cell membranes to results from cellular and animal studies showing that omega‐3 PUFAs can influence processes involved in signal transduction, oxidative stress, apoptosis or inflammation.