bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of schooling behaviour during the downstream migration of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar smolts in a chalk stream
Authors: Riley W. D. , Ibbotson A. T. , Maxwell D. L. , Davison P. I. , Beaumont W. R. C. , Ives M. J.
Published: July 2014

The downstream migratory behaviour of wild Atlantic salmon Salmo salar smolts was monitored using passive integrated transponder (PIT) antennae systems over 10 years in the lower reaches of a small chalk stream in southern England, U.K. The timing of smolt movements and the likely occurrence of schooling were investigated and compared to previous studies. In nine of the 10 consecutive years of study, the observed diel downstream patterns of S. salar smolt migration appeared to be synchronized with the onset of darkness. The distribution of time intervals between successive nocturnal detections of PIT‐tagged smolts was as expected if generated randomly from observed hourly rates. There were, however, significantly more short intervals than expected for smolts detected migrating during the day. For each year from 2006 to 2011, the observed 10th percentile of the daytime intervals was <4 s, compared to ≥55 s for the simulated random times, indicating greater incidence of groups of smolts. Groups with the shortest time intervals between successive PIT tag detections originated from numerous parr tagging sites (used as a proxy for relatedness). The results suggest that the ecological drivers influencing daily smolt movements in the lower reaches of chalk stream catchments are similar to those previously reported at the onset of migration for smolts leaving their natal tributaries; that smolts detected migrating during the night are moving independently following initiation by a common environmental factor (presumably darkness), whereas those detected migrating during the day often move in groups, and that such schools may not be site (kin)‐structured. The importance of understanding smolt migratory behaviour is considered with reference to stock monitoring programmes and enhancing downstream passage past barriers.
Differential regulation of amyloid precursor protein sorting with pathological mutations results in a distinct effect on amyloid‐β production
Authors: Lin Yen‐Chen , Wang Jia‐Yi , Wang Kai‐Chen , Liao Jhih‐Ying , Cheng Irene H.
Published: July 2014

The deposition of amyloid‐β (Aβ) peptide, which is generated from amyloid precursor protein (APP), is the pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Three APP familial AD mutations (D678H, D678N, and H677R) located at the sixth and seventh amino acid of Aβ have distinct effect on Aβ aggregation, but their influence on the physiological and pathological roles of APP remain unclear. We found that the D678H mutation strongly enhances amyloidogenic cleavage of APP, thus increasing the production of Aβ. This enhancement of amyloidogenic cleavage is likely because of the acceleration of APPD678H sorting into the endosomal‐lysosomal pathway. In contrast, the APPD678N and APPH677R mutants do not cause the same effects. Therefore, this study indicates a regulatory role of D678H in APP sorting and processing, and provides genetic evidence for the importance of APP sorting in AD pathogenesis.

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The internalization of amyloid precursor protein (APP) increases its opportunity to be processed by β‐secretase and to produce Amyloid‐β (Aβ) that causes Alzheimer's disease (AD). We report a pathogenic APPD678H mutant that enhances APP internalization into the endosomal‐lysosomal pathway and thus promotes the β‐secretase cleavage and Aβ production. This study provides genetic evidence for the importance of APP sorting in AD pathogenesis.
Reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation inhibitors reduce mechanical sensitivity in a chronic neuropathic pain model of spinal cord injury in rats
Authors: Hassler Shayne N. , Johnson Kathia M. , Hulsebosch Claire E.
Published: July 2014

Chronic neuropathic pain is a common consequence of spinal cord injury (SCI), develops over time and negatively impacts quality of life, often leading to substance abuse and suicide. Recent evidence has demonstrated that reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a role in contributing to neuropathic pain in SCI animal models. This investigation examines four compounds that reduce ROS and the downstream lipid peroxidation products, apocynin, 4‐oxo‐tempo, U‐83836E, and tirilazad, and tests if these compounds can reduce nocioceptive behaviors in chronic SCI animals. Apocynin and 4‐oxo‐tempo significantly reduced abnormal mechanical hypersensitivity measured in forelimbs and hindlimbs in a model of chronic SCI‐induced neuropathic pain. Thus, compounds that inhibit ROS or lipid peroxidation products can be used to ameliorate chronic neuropathic pain.

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We propose that the application of compounds that inhibit reactive oxygen species (ROS) and related downstream molecules will also reduce the behavioral measures of chronic neuropathic pain. Injury or trauma to nervous tissue leads to increased concentrations of ROS in the surviving tissue. Further damage from ROS molecules to dorsal lamina neurons leads to membrane excitability, the physiological correlate of chronic pain. Chronic pain is difficult to treat with current analgesics and this research will provide a novel therapy for this disease.
CLIC1 functional expression is required for cAMP‐induced neurite elongation in post‐natal mouse retinal ganglion cells
Authors: Averaimo Stefania , Gritti Marta , Barini Erica , Gasparini Laura , Mazzanti Michele
Published: July 2014

During neuronal differentiation, axonal elongation is regulated by both external and intrinsic stimuli, including neurotropic factors, cytoskeleton dynamics, second messengers such as cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), and neuronal excitability. Chloride intracellular channel 1 (CLIC1) is a cytoplasmic hydrophilic protein that, upon stimulation, dimerizes and translocates to the plasma membrane, where it contributes to increase the membrane chloride conductance. Here, we investigated the expression of CLIC1 in primary hippocampal neurons and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and examined how the functional expression of CLIC1 specifically modulates neurite outgrowth of neonatal murine RGCs. Using a combination of electrophysiology and immunohistochemistry, we found that CLIC1 is expressed in hippocampal neurons and RGCs and that the chloride current mediated by CLIC1 is required for maintaining growth cone morphology and sustaining cAMP‐stimulated neurite elongation in dissociated immunopurified RGCs. In cultured RGCs, inhibition of CLIC1 ionic current through the pharmacological blocker IAA94 or a specific anti‐CLIC1 antibody directed against its extracellular domain prevents the neurite outgrowth induced by cAMP. CLIC1‐mediated chloride current, which results from an increased open probability of the channel, is detected only when cAMP is elevated. Inhibition of protein kinase A prevents such current. These results indicate that CLIC1 functional expression is regulated by cAMP via protein kinase A and is required for neurite outgrowth modulation during neuronal differentiation.

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Using a combination of electrophysiology and immunohistochemistry, we found that the chloride intracellular channel 1 (CLIC1) protein modulates the speed of neurite growth. The chloride current mediated by CLIC1 is essential for maintaining growth cone morphology and is required for sustaining cAMP‐stimulated neurite elongation in dissociated immunopurified neurons. The presence of either the CLIC1 current blocker IAA94 or the anti‐CLIC1 antibody inhibits neurite growth of Retina Ganglion Cells cultured in the presence of 10 micromolar forskolin for 24 h.
Could mean platelet volume in late first trimester of pregnancy predict intrauterine growth restriction and pre‐eclampsia?
Authors: Kanat‐Pektas Mine , Yesildager Ufuk , Tuncer Nadire , Arioz Dagistan T. , Nadirgil‐Koken Gulengul , Yilmazer Mehmet
Published: July 2014

Aim

The present study aims to determine whether mean platelet volume (MPV) specified in late first trimester of pregnancy can be used to predict pre‐eclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).

Methods

This study prospectively reviews 200 healthy women with 11–14‐week‐old pregnancies.

Results

Average pregnancy‐associated plasma protein‐A (PAPP‐A) multiples of the median (MoM) value was significantly lower and MPV was significantly higher in pre‐eclamptic pregnancies (P = 0.001 for both). MPV values of 10.5 fl or more can predict pre‐eclampsia with 66.7% sensitivity and 63.8% specificity. The combination of MPV of 10.5 fl or more and PAPP‐A MoM of 0.33 or less can predict pre‐eclampsia with 75% sensitivity and 70.0% specificity. MPV values of 10.5 fl or more can predict IUGR with 82.4% sensitivity and 60.0% specificity. The combination of MPV of 10.5 fl or more and PAPP‐A MoM of 0.33 or less can predict IUGR with 85.3% sensitivity and 62.0% specificity.

Conclusion

Increased MPV reflects enhanced platelet activation which may be caused by impairment in uteroplacental circulation. When MPV of 10.1 or more and PAPP‐A MoM of 0.33 or less are combined as a threshold, the pregnancies that are destined to develop IUGR and pre‐eclampsia can be predicted with considerably high sensitivity and specificity. The MPV and PAPP‐A combination can be addressed as a useful biochemical tool for the prediction of IUGR and pre‐eclampsia in late first trimester.
Prediction of histological types of endometrial cancer by endometrial cytology
Authors: Okadome Masao , Saito Toshiaki , Nishiyama Naoko , Ariyoshi Kazuya , Shimamoto Kumi , Shimada Takako , Kodama Keisuke , Imamura Shogo , Nishiyama Ken‐ichi , Taguchi Kenichi
Published: July 2014

Aim

Few studies have examined the accuracy of preoperative endometrial cytology in diagnosing low‐ and high‐risk histology in women with endometrial cancer (EC). This single‐institutional retrospective study compared the accuracy of endometrial cytology and biopsy in preoperatively predicting low‐risk and high‐risk histology of EC.

Methods

Between January 2006 and March 2013, 198 women with EC were examined by endometrial cytology, endometrial biopsy and hysterectomy specimen in National Kyushu Cancer Center. Among these women, 110 had endometrial cytology samples available to compare with endometrial biopsy, and were enrolled in our study (mean age ± standard deviation: 59.57 ± 10.32 years). Single‐use plastic endometrial suction curettes were used in 12 of the 110 cases and thin metallic curettes for the rest.

Results

For type 2 EC, which includes grade 3 endometrioid adenocarcinoma and non‐endometrioid histology, biopsy was 67.6% sensitive (25/37) and 84.9% specific (62/73); whereas cytology was 70.3% sensitive (26/37) and 91.8% specific (67/73). Cytology precisely diagnosed only one of 14 cases of serous carcinoma, but it diagnosed 11 of the 14 cases as type 2 EC, and its accuracy in distinguishing EC types was not inferior to endometrial biopsy (10/14). For EC, 9.1% (10/110) were unevaluable using biopsy, significantly more than the 0% (0/110) by cytology (P = 0.002).

Conclusion

Although preoperative prediction of serous carcinoma was difficult, endometrial cytology had a higher evaluable rate for EC types. Endometrial cytology may complement endometrial biopsy in preoperative women with EC.
Prenatal differential diagnosis of complete hydatidiform mole with a twin live fetus and placental mesenchymal dysplasia by magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Himoto Yuki , Kido Aki , Minamiguchi Sachiko , Moribata Yusaku , Okumura Ryosuke , Mogami Haruta , Nagano Tadayoshi , Konishi Ikuo , Togashi Kaori
Published: July 2014

Aim

To assess the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for prenatal differentiation between complete hydatidiform mole with a twin live fetus (CHMTF) and placental mesenchymal dysplasia (PMD).

Methods

Three CHMTF cases and three PMD cases, from two institutions over a 6‐year period, were retrospectively included in this study. Clinical findings including age, pregnancy history, serum hCG level, ultrasonography findings, complications of the mother, outcome of the fetus, and results of chromosomal study of fetus, amniotic fluid and lesion, if possible, were noted. MRI findings were evaluated by two radiologists with respect to the location of the disease (intra‐ or extra‐fetal sac), the presence of multicystic component, and presence of intra‐ or extra‐lesional hemorrhage.

Results

In all six cases, the diseases were recognized as multicystic lesions by ultrasonography and MRI. In two of three CHMTF cases, patients continued with the pregnancy, which resulted in spontaneous abortion. In one case of CHMTF, the patient underwent artificial abortion, after which the mole progressed into an invasive mole with lung metastases. All three PMD patients had live births, and two of the three babies had fetal growth restriction. By MRI, CHMTF was located within an extra‐fetal sac accompanied by intra‐ and/or extra‐lesional hemorrhage, while PMD was located within the placenta in the fetal sac without hemorrhage.

Conclusion

MRI could provide important information about the prenatal differential diagnosis of CHMTF and PMD, based on the pathophysiology and characteristics of the diseases.
Role of postprandial bile acids in prediction of perinatal outcome in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy
Authors: Sargın Oruç Ayla , Seçkin Berna , Özcan Nagihan , Özyer Sebnem , Uzunlar Özlem , Danışman Nuri
Published: July 2014

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of fasting and postprandial total bile acids (fTBA, ppTBA) in prediction of adverse perinatal outcomes in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP).

Material and Methods

A total of 111 patients, 57 with ICP and 54 controls, were evaluated for preterm birth (PTB), meconium‐stained amnion (MSA), neonatal intensive‐care unit admission and asphyxia. We further classified the ICP group as mild and severe. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate the associated biochemical and clinical parameters with adverse perinatal outcomes.

Results

In the ICP group, PTB, asphyxia, admission to neonatal intensive‐care unit, and MSA were more frequently observed (P = 0.001, P = 0.027, P = 0.006 and P = 0.030, respectively). In subgroup analysis, PTB was more frequent in severe ICP cases than in mild cases (P = 0.028). Fasting and ppTBA were positively correlated with serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels. Postprandial TBA and difference between fasting and postprandial TBA levels were associated with asphyxia (P = 0.014 and P = 0.023, respectively). Gestational age at diagnosis and fTBA were associated with adverse perinatal outcomes (P = 0.001 and P = 0.025, respectively).

Conclusion

Postprandial TBA and difference of fasting and postprandial TBA are associated with asphyxia in ICP. The gestational age at diagnosis and fTBA are associated with adverse perinatal outcomes.
Concentrated ascites re‐infusion therapy for pseudo‐Meigs' syndrome complicated by massive ascites in large pedunculated uterine leiomyoma
Authors: Yonehara Yukie , Yanazume Shintaro , Kamio Masaki , Togami Shinichi , Tasaki Takashi , Douchi Tsutomu
Published: July 2014

Pseudo‐Meigs' syndrome accompanied by massive ascites in uterine leiomyoma is rare. We encountered a rare case of a 37‐year‐old, nulliparous woman with a lower abdominal tumor and severe abdominal distention due to massive ascites. Serum cancer antigen 125 and vascular endothelial growth factor levels were elevated to 1007.9 U/mL and 103 pg/mL, respectively. She was tentatively diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Emergency concentrated ascites re‐infusion therapy was performed to improve dyspnea, abdominal pain, and her preoperative respiratory condition. Concentrated ascites re‐infusion therapy eliminated dyspnea and abdominal discomfort without decreasing serum albumin levels. The patient underwent laparotomy, which revealed a fist‐sized pedunculated uterine leiomyoma arising from the right uterine fundus. Myomectomy was performed. Pseudo‐Meigs' syndrome mimics advanced ovarian cancer due to massive ascites and markedly elevated serum cancer antigen 125 and vascular endothelial growth factor levels. Concentrated ascites re‐infusion therapy was effective in improving the subjective symptoms of pseudo‐Meigs' syndrome and the patient's preoperative condition.
Clinical characteristics of amniotic fluid embolism: An experience of 29 years
Authors: Yoneyama Koichi , Sekiguchi Atsuko , Matsushima Takashi , Kawase Rieko , Nakai Akihito , Asakura Hirobumi , Takeshita Toshiyuki
Published: July 2014

Aim

The aim of this study was to elucidate the clinical characteristics and risk factors for amniotic fluid embolism (AFE).

Methods

We performed a retrospective case study analysis of patients using medical records and autopsy records. The diagnosis of AFE was based on the presence of clinical symptoms using Clark's criteria and autopsy results. We analyzed patient records from a 29‐year period in three hospitals affiliated with the Nippon Medical School in Japan.

Results

Ten diagnoses of AFE were found in the records. First, we classified AFE patients into two types based on the initial presenting symptoms: post‐partum hemorrhage and cardiopulmonary collapse. Fifty percent of the patients initially presented with post‐partum hemorrhage and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Most were diagnosed with post‐partum hemorrhage or uterine atony at AFE onset. Similarly, 50% presented with cardiopulmonary arrest or pulmonary arrest as initial symptoms, and most were diagnosed with eclampsia. Second, risk factors for AFE included advanced maternal age, multiparity, increased intrauterine pressure and disruptions of the uterine vasculature. Third, the case fatality rate was 70%. Fourth, squamous cells were observed in maternal central venous blood of five patients.

Conclusion

AFE patients were classified into two types based on presenting signs and symptoms. Knowledge of the various initial symptoms of AFE enables a correct diagnosis.
Cerebral Infarction due to Central Vein Occlusion in a Hemodialysis Patient
Authors: Prasad Vikram , Baghai Shahine , Gandhi Dheeraj , Moeslein Fred , Jindal Gaurav
Published: July 2014

Venous congestive encephalopathy is a rare complication of central venous occlusion in hemodialysis patients with upper extremity dialysis created shunts. We describe the clinical presentation and endovascular management of an end‐stage renal disease patient with a left upper extremity arteriovenous graft who developed intracranial venous hypertension, left‐sided subdural and subarachnoid intracranial hemorrhage, and left‐sided cerebral infarcts related to a left brachiocephalic vein occlusion.
The Use of Qualitative Research Methods in Quantitative Science: A Review
Authors: Jervis M.G. , Drake M.A.
Published: July 2014

Qualitative research in the field of food science strives to understand consumer behavior and motivation. Often, these methods are used to develop a hypothesis, which can be tested through quantitative research. Traditionally, qualitative methods can provide excellent insight to consumer behavior, but the data collected can be difficult to organize and interpret. Focus groups are the most common qualitative research tool applied to understand consumer behavior and identify possible areas of focus for product development. However, ethnography and means‐end chain analysis can also be applied to understand consumer behavior and personal values. Many new qualitative techniques have been developed that attempt to mimic data normally collected in quantitative research. Grouping and projective mapping allow consumers to represent similarities and differences between products and produce maps that show how consumers perceive various attributes of these products. Each method has benefits and drawbacks, and each demands a particular data analysis methodology. Understanding these approaches is important in choosing a research method and proper interpretation of the collected data.

Practical Applications

Qualitative research is often used as a way to develop and refine hypotheses in product development. They allow for quick, inexpensive probing of consumer demands in a natural and comfortable environment. However, qualitative research can also be used as a substitute for classical quantitative profiling methods or to powerfully augment quantitative methodology.
Impacts of Hedonic and Utilitarian User Motives on the Innovativeness of User‐Developed Solutions
Authors: Stock Ruth Maria , Oliveira Pedro , von Hippel Eric
Published: July 2014

When individual consumers develop products for their own use, they in part expect to be rewarded by the use value of what they are creating (utilitarian user motives), and in part expect to be rewarded intrinsically by such things as the fun and learning experience derived from creating it (hedonic user motives). This paper shows a first‐of‐type study to understand the relationship between individual consumers' motives to innovate and the novelty and utility of the solutions they develop. The theoretical framework integrates self‐determination theory and goal‐setting theory.

The major findings of this study are that utilitarian user motives positively affect the utility of user‐developed innovations. In contrast, hedonic user motives drive solution novelty; the more an innovator is “in it for fun,” the more novel the solution developed. However, hedonic user motives also have an invertedU‐shaped relationship with solution utility. When the dominant motive for developing an innovation is the joy of the creative process rather than use value, the utility of what is developed is negatively affected. These findings are of research interest, and can be of significant practical interest to producers hoping to benefit from user‐developed innovations. For the first time, it has been possible to show that the adjustment of hedonic rewards, for example by means such as gamification, can affect the nature and utility of solutions individuals create.
An Attention‐Based View of Family Firm Adaptation to Discontinuous Technological Change: Exploring the Role of Family CEOs' Noneconomic Goals
Authors: Kammerlander Nadine , Ganter Melanie
Published: July 2014

Recent studies show that managerial attention is a particularly important precursor of established firms' responses to discontinuous technological change. However, little is known about the factors that shape managerial attention‐response patterns. Our qualitative study investigates how the attention of family firm chief executive officers (CEOs) to discontinuous technological shifts, the interpretation and decision‐making processes associated with these changes, and ultimately organizations' responses are affected by CEOs' noneconomic goals. Based on seven longitudinal case studies in the German consumer goods industry, the paper induces a process model that extends the findings of the literature on the attention‐based view and helps to explain heterogeneity in family firms' adaptation to discontinuous technological change. This study shows that the family CEO's specific noneconomic goals—such as power and control, transgenerational value, the maintenance of family reputation, the continuance of personal ties, or personal affect associated with the family business—determine whether the CEO assesses an emerging technology as relevant enough to warrant a reaction from the firm. Moreover, the family CEO's noneconomic goals constrain the set of considered responses. The outcome of this sensemaking process determines the organization's response. For instance, in the specific context of this study, the goal of “family power and control” entailed an immediate interpretation of the focal trend as important for maintaining influence, and resulted in an unconstrained set of responses and, ultimately, high innovation in the new domain. Over time, family CEOs might reevaluate the emerging trend based on their goals and adapt organizational moves accordingly. The paper identifies and discusses how ambiguities and dilemmas may arise during this process. Our findings contribute to the literature on adaptation to discontinuous technological change and to family firm research.
Innovation Roadmapping: Building Concepts from Practitioners’ Insights
Authors: Simonse Lianne W. L. , Hultink Erik Jan , Buijs Jan A.
Published: July 2014

Cartographic roadmaps used for navigating from A to B provide a strong metaphor for innovation roadmaps used at firms for navigating from the present to the future. Now ready to move beyond this metaphor—the pace and proliferation of knowledge on innovation roadmapping have reached a point at which it would be useful to lay out some groundwork for extended theorizing and research in this area. This paper contributes here by reporting on a qualitative inductive research based on documented practitioners’ insights.

To better understand the phenomenon of innovation roadmapping (what it is and what it is not) and its impact on innovation performance, this study builds concepts in the context of strategic innovation management theory. Through a systematic analysis of the qualitative data extracted from 12 cases selected from the extant literature, this research found five concepts with common ground in these cases and built a framework in which innovation roadmapping is established by (1) a strategy of time pacing, (2) synchronizing dialogues, and (3) mapping innovation elements to a timeline. Furthermore, the systematic analysis of the documented practitioners’ insights indicates that roadmapping affects either the innovation performance of (4) competitive timing or (5) industry synergy. Overall, this leads to an initial formulation of theory with this conceptual framework and six related propositions.

The key insights for innovation managers in industrial firms are that, in striving for competitive timing or industry synergy, roadmapping provides a means to achieve these objectives and, in deploying roadmapping in the organization, dialogue and pacing are critically important.
Platelet Volume and Plateletcrit in Dogs with Presumed Primary Immune‐Mediated Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Schwartz D. , Sharkey L. , Armstrong P.J. , Knudson C. , Kelley J.
Published: July 2014

Background

Mean platelet volume (MPV) and plateletcrit (PCT) are indices used in evaluating immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia (IMT) in humans and in dogs with congenital macrothrombocytopenia. These indices may provide clinically valuable information in acquired thrombocytopenia.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Dogs with presumed primaryIMTwill have increasedMPV, and therefore platelet mass (PCT) will increase faster than platelet count (PLT) during recovery.

Animals

Forty‐nine dogs with automated PLT < 30,000/μL because of presumed primaryIMTand hematocrit (HCT),PCT,MPV, and platelet distribution width determined from the same complete blood count (CBC), and 46 healthy controls.

Methods

Case‐control retrospective study;PLT,PCT,MPV, and platelet distribution width (PDW) were recorded fromCBCs from 49 dogs, with 45 having data collected on the day of presentation. Fifteen were confirmed to have attained a PLT ≥ 75,000/μL on at least 1CBCwithin 15 days after admission. ThePCTequivalent to aPLTof 75,000/μL (assuming an averageMPV) was calculated for comparison withPLTin terms of time to achieve a threshold of platelet mass by the 2 measures.

Results

Mean platelet volume was higher in IMT dogs (17.3 fl) than the reference population (10.5 fl) (P < .0001). The PDW was not significantly different among the groups. The median time forPCTto reach threshold in confirmed responders was faster (3 days) compared with PLT (4 days).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia is characterized by increasedMPV. Time to achieve a thresholdPCTtended to be shorter thanPLT, suggesting thatPCTmay be a useful platelet parameter for monitoring dogs withIMT.
Clinical Features and Treatment Outcomes of 41 Dogs with Sublingual Ectopic Thyroid Neoplasia
Authors: Broome M.R. , Peterson M.E. , Walker J.R.
Published: July 2014

Background

Thyroid neoplasia is common in dogs, but there are few reports of dogs with ectopic, sublingual thyroid tumors.

Objectives

To describe clinical features and outcomes of dogs with ectopic, sublingual thyroid neoplasia.

Animals

Five hundred and forty‐four dogs with thyroid neoplasia.

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed the medical records of dogs referred for thyroid neoplasia between 1995 and 2013. Data extracted included signalment, extent of thyroid disease (eutopic or ectopic; metastasis), serum thyroxine (T4) concentration, treatment, and survival.

Results

Of 544 dogs with thyroid neoplasia, 41 (7.5%) dogs had ectopic sublingual thyroid tumors. The clinical features of these 41 dogs were similar to the cohort group of 503 dogs with eutopic or ectopic mediastinal thyroid tumors, but dogs with sublingual tumors were younger and less likely to have metastatic disease (15% versus 30%,P < .05). Of the 41 dogs, 28 received treatment: 21 with surgery (which included partial hyoidectomy in 13), 7 with radioiodine alone, and 13 with surgery followed by administration of radioiodine. Overall median survival was 562 days (range, 1‐1,850 days).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

When compared with eutopic thyroid carcinomas, ectopic sublingual thyroid tumors generally have a less aggressive biologic behavior. Many dogs have prolonged survival, even without treatment, although death because of local tumor invasiveness or metastasis can develop in some dogs. Surgical thyroidectomy, including partial hyoidectomy, is generally effective for control of local disease. Administration of radioiodine, alone or in combination with surgical treatment, is recommended for multifocal disease or metastasis.
Serum Concentrations of Gastrin after Famotidine and Omeprazole Administration to Dogs
Authors: Parente N.L. , Bari Olivier N. , Refsal K.R. , Johnson C.A.
Published: July 2014

Background

The duration of antacid‐induced hypergastrinemia after cessation of administration of omeprazole and famotidine apparently has not been determined in dogs.

Hypothesis

That serum gastrin will return to basal concentrations by 7 days after cessation of famotidine or omeprazole administration.

Animals

Nine healthy, adult, male, research colony dogs.

Methods

Randomized, cross‐over design. Serum gastrin was determined daily for 7 days to establish baseline concentrations. Famotidine (1.0 mg/kg q24h) or omeprazole (1.0 mg/kg q24h) was administered PO for 7 days followed by a 14‐day washout. Serum concentrations of gastrin were determined daily during 7 days of administration and daily for 7 days after cessation of administration. Each drug was evaluated in 8 of the 9 dogs.

Results

Omeprazole caused a significant increase in serum gastrin concentration (37.2 ± 7.3 to 71.3 ± 19.0 ng/L; P = .006). Famotidine induced a transient increase in serum gastrin (37.2 ± 7.3 to 65.5 ± 38.5 ng/L; P = .02) that peaked at administration day 3 and declined thereafter. By day 7 after cessation of both drugs, there was no difference in serum gastrin concentrations compared to those before administration (famotidine P = .99; omeprazole P = .99). During or after administration, gastrin concentrations above 3 times the upper reference range were rare (12 of 224 samples).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

A 7‐day withdrawal from short‐term administration of famotidine or omeprazole is sufficient for serum gastrin to return to baseline concentrations. Withholding famotidine or omeprazole for longer before investigating pathologic causes of hypergastrinemia is unnecessary.
The Effects of Task Complexity and Input Frequency on the Acquisition of the Past Counterfactual Construction Through Recasts
Authors: Révész Andrea , Sachs Rebecca , Hama Mika
Published: July 2014

This investigation examined two techniques that may help learners focus on second language (L2) constructions when recasts are provided during meaning‐based communicative activities: altering the cognitive complexity of tasks and manipulating the input frequency distributions of target constructions. We first independently assessed the validity of our cognitive task complexity manipulation by means of expert judgments, dual‐task methodology, and eye tracking. Next, in our main study, we employed a pretest‐posttest design with two treatment sessions. The participants were 51 adult English L2 learners, randomly assigned to one of four experimental groups or a control group. All experimental groups received recasts but differed as to whether they carried out simple tasks with lower reasoning demands or complex tasks with higher reasoning demands, and whether they received skewed or balanced input of the linguistic target, the past counterfactual construction. An oral production test and two written receptive tests were utilized to measure changes in participants’ knowledge. Our results revealed no effects for the input frequency manipulations, but participants achieved higher oral production gains under the simple task condition.
Genetic connectivity of the coral‐eating sea star Acanthaster planci during the severe outbreak of 2006–2009 in the Society Islands, French Polynesia
Authors: Yasuda Nina , Taquet Coralie , Nagai Satoshi , Yoshida Terutoyo , Adjeroud Mehdi
Published: July 2014

Occasional population outbreaks of the crown‐of‐thorns sea star, Acanthaster planci, are a major threat to coral reefs across the Indo‐Pacific. The presumed association between the serial nature of these outbreaks and the long larval dispersal phase makes it important to estimate larval dispersal; many studies have examined the population genetic structure of A. planci for this purpose using different genetic markers. However, only a few have focused on reef‐scale as well as archipelago‐scale genetic structure and none has used a combination of different genetic markers with different effective population sizes. In our study, we used both mtDNA and microsatellite loci to examine A. planci population genetic structure at multiple spatial scales (from <2 km to almost 300 km) within and among four islands of the Society Archipelago, French Polynesia. Our analysis detected no significant genetic structure based on mtDNA (global FST = −0.007, P = 0.997) and low levels of genetic structure using microsatellite loci (global FST = 0.006, P = 0.005). We found no significant isolation by distance patterns within the study area for either genetic marker. The overall genetically homogenized pattern found in both the mitochondrial and nuclear loci of A. planci in the Society Archipelago underscores the significant role of larval dispersal that may cause secondary outbreaks, as well as possible recent colonization in this area.
Possible paraneoplastic etiology in a case of Guillain–Barré syndrome with tumoral expression of ganglioside GM3
Authors: Nakaoku Yuriko , Ihara Masafumi , Hase Yoshiki , Okamoto Yoko , Saito Satoshi , Hishizawa Miki , Uemura Kengo , Kuwahara Motoi , Oka Nobuyuki , Kusunoki Susumu , Takahashi Ryosuke
Published: July 2014

Paraneoplastic neurological syndromes occur most frequently with small cell lung cancer. We report a 73‐year‐old man who had suffered from small cell lung cancer, with a fraction of the patient's malignant cells expressing membrane ganglioside GM3, and had developed Guillain–Barré syndrome with serum positivity for anti‐GM3 immunoglobulin G antibody when assayed with phosphatidic acid. The distribution of GM3 in myelin labeled with anti‐human GM3 antibodies corresponded well to that labeled with the patient's serum, but not with control sera. Intravenous immunoglobulins and chemotherapy for cancer resolved the symptoms of Guillain–Barré syndrome. These observations suggest that autoantibodies against conformational epitopes formed by GM3 and phosphatidic acid in cancers cross‐react with neural tissue, probably as a result of molecular mimicry, and might thus underlie paraneoplastic Guillain–Barré syndrome.
Cyclic Nucleotide Phosphodiesterases: important signaling modulators and therapeutic targets
Authors: Ahmad F , Murata T , Shimizu K , Degerman E , Maurice D , Manganiello V
Published: July 2014

By catalyzing hydrolysis of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases are critical regulators of their intracellular concentrations and their biological effects. As these intracellular second messengers control many cellular homeostatic processes, dysregulation of their signals and signaling pathways initiate or modulate pathophysiological pathways related to various disease states, including erectile dysfunction, pulmonary hypertension, acute refractory cardiac failure, intermittent claudication, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and psoriasis. Alterations in expression of PDEs and PDE‐gene mutations (especially mutations in PDE6, PDE8B, PDE11A, and PDE4) have been implicated in various diseases and cancer pathologies. PDEs also play important role in formation and function of multimolecular signaling/regulatory complexes, called signalosomes. At specific intracellular locations, individual PDEs, together with pathway‐specific signaling molecules, regulators, and effectors, are incorporated into specific signalosomes, where they facilitate and regulate compartmentalization of cyclic nucleotide signaling pathways and specific cellular functions. Currently, only a limited number of PDE inhibitors (PDE3, PDE4, PDE5 inhibitors) are used in clinical practice. Future paths to novel drug discovery include the crystal structure‐based design approach, which has resulted in generation of more effective family‐selective inhibitors, as well as burgeoning development of strategies to alter compartmentalized cyclic nucleotide signaling pathways by selectively targeting individual PDEs and their signalosome partners.
Suppression of inflammatory responses of human gingival fibroblasts by gingipains from Porphyromonas gingivalis
Authors: Palm E. , Khalaf H. , Bengtsson T.
Published: July 2014

The interaction between human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) and Porphyromonas gingivalis plays an important role in the development and progression of periodontitis. Porphyromonas gingivalis possesses several virulence factors, including cysteine proteases, the arginine‐specific (Rgp) and lysine‐specific (Kgp) gingipains. Studying the mechanisms that P. gingivalis, and its derived virulence, use to propagate and interact with host cells will increase the understanding of the development and progression of periodontitis. In this study, we aimed to elucidate how P. gingivalis influences the inflammatory events in HGFs regarding transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1), CXCL8, secretory leucocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI), c‐Jun and indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO). HGFs were inoculated for 6 and 24 h with the wild‐type strains ATCC 33277 and W50, two gingipain‐mutants of W50 and heat‐killed ATCC 33277. The P. gingivalis regulated CXCL8 and TGF‐β1 in HGFs, and the kgp mutant gave significantly higher immune response with increased CXCL8 (P < 0.001) and low levels of TGF‐β1. We show that HGFs express and secrete SLPI, which was significantly suppressed by P. gingivalis (P < 0.05). This suggests that by antagonizing SLPI, P. gingivalis contributes to the tissue destruction associated with periodontitis. Furthermore, we found that P. gingivalis inhibits the expression of the antimicrobial IDO, as well as upregulating c‐Jun (P < 0.05). In conclusion, P. gingivalis both triggers and suppresses the immune response in HGFs. Consequently, we suggest that the pathogenic effects of P. gingivalis, and especially the activity of the gingipains on the inflammatory and immune response of HGFs, are crucial in periodontitis.
The cell envelope proteome of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans
Authors: Smith K.P. , Fields J.G. , Voogt R.D. , Deng B. , Lam Y‐W. , Mintz K.P.
Published: July 2014

The cell envelope of gram‐negative bacteria serves a critical role in maintenance of cellular homeostasis, resistance to external stress, and host–pathogen interactions. Envelope protein composition is influenced by the physiological and environmental demands placed on the bacterium. In this study, we report a comprehensive compilation of cell envelope proteins from the periodontal and systemic pathogen Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans VT1169, an afimbriated serotype b strain. The urea‐extracted membrane proteins were identified by mass spectrometry‐based shotgun proteomics. The membrane proteome, isolated from actively growing bacteria under normal laboratory conditions, included 648 proteins representing 27% of the predicted open reading frames in the genome. Bioinformatic analyses were used to annotate and predict the cellular location and function of the proteins. Surface adhesins, porins, lipoproteins, numerous influx and efflux pumps, multiple sugar, amino acid and iron transporters, and components of the type I, II and V secretion systems were identified. Periplasmic space and cytoplasmic proteins with chaperone function were also identified. A total of 107 proteins with unknown function were associated with the cell envelope. Orthologs of a subset of these uncharacterized proteins are present in other bacterial genomes, whereas others are found exclusively in A. actinomycetemcomitans. This knowledge will contribute to elucidating the role of cell envelope proteins in bacterial growth and survival in the oral cavity.
ZmCPK1, a calcium‐independent kinase member of the Zea mays CDPK gene family, functions as a negative regulator in cold stress signalling
Authors: WECKWERTH PHILIPP , EHLERT BRITTA , ROMEIS TINA
Published: July 2014

Calcium‐dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) have been shown to play important roles in plant environmental stress signal transduction. We report on the identification of ZmCPK1 as a member of the maize (Zea mays) CDPK gene family involved in the regulation of the maize cold stress response. Based upon in silico analysis of the Z. mays cv. B73 genome, we identified that the maize CDPK gene family consists of 39 members. Two CDPK members were selected whose gene expression was either increased (Zmcpk1) or decreased (Zmcpk25) in response to cold exposure. Biochemical analysis demonstrated that ZmCPK1 displays calcium‐independent protein kinase activity. The C‐terminal calcium‐binding domain of ZmCPK1 was sufficient to mediate calcium independency of a previously calcium‐dependent enzyme in chimeric ZmCPK25‐CPK1 proteins. Furthermore, co‐transfection of maize mesophyll protoplasts with active full‐length ZmCPK1 suppressed the expression of a cold‐induced marker gene, Zmerf3 (ZmCOI6.21). In accordance, heterologous overexpression of ZmCPK1 in Arabidopsis thaliana yielded plants with altered acclimation‐induced frost tolerance. Our results identify ZmCPK1 as a negative regulator of cold stress signalling in maize.
Jasmonic acid signalling mediates resistance of the wild tobacco Nicotiana attenuata to its native Fusarium, but not Alternaria, fungal pathogens
Authors: LUU VAN THI , SCHUCK STEFAN , KIM SANG‐GYU , WEINHOLD ARNE , BALDWIN IAN T.
Published: July 2014

We recently characterized a highly dynamic fungal disease outbreak in native populations of Nicotiana attenuata in the southwestern United States. Here, we explore how phytohormone signalling contributes to the observed disease dynamics. Single inoculation with three native Fusarium and Alternaria fungal pathogens, isolated from diseased plants growing in native populations, resulted in disease symptoms characteristic for each pathogen species. While Alternaria sp.‐infected plants displayed fewer symptoms and recovered, Fusarium spp.‐infected plants became chlorotic and frequently spontaneously wilted. Jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA) levels were differentially induced after Fusarium or Alternaria infection. Transgenic N. attenuata lines silenced in JA production or JA conjugation to isoleucine (JA‐Ile), but not in JA perception, were highly susceptible to infection by F. brachygibbosum Utah 4, indicating that products derived from the JA‐Ile biosynthetic pathway, but not their perception, is associated with increased Fusarium resistance. Infection assays using ov‐nahG plants which were silenced in pathogen‐induced SA accumulations revealed that SA may increase N. attenuata's resistance to Fusarium infection but not to Alternaria. Taken together, we propose that the dynamics of fungal disease symptoms among plants in native populations may be explained by a complex interplay of phytohormone responses to attack by multiple pathogens.
Orthodontic care for the behavior‐challenged special needs patient
Authors: Rada Robert , Bakhsh Heba H , Evans Carla
Published: July 2014

Despite having a high prevalence of functionally compromising malocclusions, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities do not regularly receive necessary orthodontic treatment. Patients with behavior challenges are unlikely to be offered this treatment option. However, with appropriate behavior management interventions and pharmacologic sedation, orthodontic treatment becomes a possibility for clinicians to consider. Parents will likely seek out clinicians who can provide this type of advanced orthodontic care. Additional training is now becoming available as accredited Fellowship Programs in Craniofacial and Special Care Orthodontics are developed. Hopefully, the clinical examples described in this article will no longer be unique in the area of special care dentistry.
Same Disease—different research strategies: Bananas and Black Sigatoka in Brazil and Colombia
Authors: Cordoba Diana , Jansen Kees
Published: July 2014

Fungal disease epidemics have the potential to bring about drastic innovations. However, in the case of the Black Sigatoka (Mycosphaerella fijiensis) fungus in bananas, producers and international traders are still awaiting a breakthrough in crop protection research. Using the cases of Brazil and Colombia, this paper examines different agricultural research responses to the disease. Brazil opted to replace susceptible varieties with resistant ones, whereas in Colombia chemical control by private actors dominated. We argue that these different responses result from at least three interrelated factors. First, producer type—smallholder farmers or larger export‐oriented plantations—influences the setting of crop protection research priorities. Second, a central, state‐led role versus a private sector response influences the size and time perspective of research activities. Third, domestic markets with multiple crop varieties versus Cavendish‐only export markets leads to differences in control practices and research responses. From this case study, we argue that the currently proposed innovation systems approaches in international agricultural research should adopt a broader perspective that assesses how research is interwoven with agrarian dynamics, commodity chains and particular state roles to elucidate how state–producer–researcher networks perform disease control and where and how to find new solutions.