bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidative status and social dominance in a wild cooperative breeder
Authors: Cram Dominic L. , Blount Jonathan D. , Young Andrew J.
Published: July 2014

Oxidative stress has been proposed as a key mediator of life‐history trade‐offs, yet the social factors that affect patterns of oxidative status amongst individuals in animal societies remain virtually unexplored.

This is important, as rank‐related differences in reproductive effort in many social species have the potential to generate, or indeed arise from, differences in oxidative status across dominance classes.

Here, we examine rank‐related variation in oxidative status before and after a lengthy breeding season in a wild cooperatively breeding bird with high reproductive skew, in the semi‐arid zone of Southern Africa; the white‐browed sparrow weaver (Plocepasser mahali).

Our findings reveal that prior to breeding, neither sex showed rank‐related differences in markers of oxidative damage or antioxidant protection, suggesting that dominants' reproductive monopolies do not arise from superior pre‐breeding oxidative status.

After breeding, however, females (who provision young at higher rates than males) suffered elevated oxidative damage, and dominant females (the only birds to lay and incubate eggs, and the primary nestling provisioners) experienced differential declines in antioxidant protection.

While males also showed reduced antioxidant capacity after breeding, this decline was not dependent on rank and not associated with elevated oxidative damage.

Our findings suggest that divisions of labour in animal societies can leave the hardest‐working classes differentially exposed to oxidative stress, raising the possibility of hitherto unexplored impacts on health and ageing in social species.
Higher Medicare SNF Care Utilization by Dual‐Eligible Beneficiaries: Can Medicaid Long‐Term Care Policies Be the Answer?
Authors: Rahman Momotazur , Tyler Denise , Thomas Kali S. , Grabowski David C. , Mor Vincent
Published: July 2014

Objective

To examine outcomes associated with dual eligibility (Medicare and Medicaid) of patients who are admitted to skilled nursing facility (SNF) care and whether differences in outcomes are related to states' Medicaid long‐term care policies.

Data Sources/Collection

We used national Medicare enrollment data and claims, and the Minimum Data Set for 890,922 community‐residing Medicare fee‐for‐service beneficiaries who were discharged to an SNF from a general hospital between July 2008 and June 2009.

Study Design

We estimated the effect of dual eligibility on the likelihood of 30‐day rehospitalization, becoming a long‐stay nursing home resident, and 180‐day survival while controlling for clinical, demographic, socio‐economic, residential neighborhood characteristics, and SNF‐fixed effects. We estimated the differences in outcomes by dual eligibility status separately for each state and showed their relationship with state policies: the average Medicaid payment rate; presence of nursing home certificate‐of‐need (CON) laws; and Medicaid home and community‐based services (HCBS) spending.

Principal Findings

Dual‐eligible patients are equally likely to experience 30‐day rehospitalization, 12 percentage points more likely to become long‐stay residents, and 2 percentage points more likely to survive 180 days compared to Medicare‐only patients. This longer survival can be attributed to longer nursing home length of stay. While higher HCBS spending reduces the length‐of‐stay gap without affecting the survival gap, presence of CON laws reduces both the length‐of‐stay and survival gaps.

Conclusions

Dual eligibles utilize more SNF care and experience higher survival rates than comparable Medicare‐only patients. Higher HCBS spending may reduce the longer SNF length of stay of dual eligibles without increasing mortality and may save money for both Medicare and Medicaid.
Factors Affecting Receipt of Expensive Cancer Treatments and Mortality: Evidence from Stem Cell Transplantation for Leukemia and Lymphoma
Authors: Mitchell Jean M. , Conklin Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2014

Objective

To identify factors that affect whether patients diagnosed with either leukemia or lymphoma receive a stem cell transplant and secondly if receipt of stem cell transplantation is linked to improved survival.

Data

California inpatient discharge records (2002–2003) for patients with either leukemia or lymphoma linked with vital statistics death records (2002–2005).

Study Design

Bivariate Probit treatment effects model that accounts for both the type of treatment received and survival while controlling for nonrandom selection due to unobservable factors.

Principal Findings

Having private insurance coverage and residence in a well‐educated county increased the chances a patient with either disease receivedHSCT. Increasing age and travel distance to the nearest transplant hospital had the opposite effect. Receipt ofHSCThad a significant impact on mortality. We found the probability of death was 4.3 percentage points higher for leukemia patients who didNOThaveHSCT. Receipt ofHSCTreduced the chances of dying by almost 50 percent. The likelihood of death among lymphoma patients who underwentHSCTwas almost 5 percentage points lower, a 70 percent reduction in the probability of death.

Conclusions

The findings raise concern about access to expensive, but highly effective cancer treatments for patients with certain hematologic malignancies.
Morphological Assessment of Ancestry using Cranial Macromorphoscopics,
Authors: Klales Alexandra R. , Kenyhercz Michael W.
Published: July 2014

Ancestry estimation is essential for biological profile estimation in forensic anthropology. Hefner (2009) and Osteoware (Smithsonian Institution, 2011) presented 16 macromorphoscopic traits that can be scored for standardized data collection and can also be used within a statistical framework to estimate ancestry. The primary purpose of this research was to examine the utility of these traits for assessing ancestry. Tests of observer agreement and the range of variation in trait expression were evaluated. A sample of 208 American whites and blacks from the Hamann–Todd Collection were scored, and several classification methods were utilized in accordance with Hefner (2009). Correct classifications for the pooled sex analyses ranged from 73.3% to 86.6% and from 46.7% to 64.3% when the sexes were analyzed independently. Interobserver agreement was variable and was found to be lower than that presented in Hefner (2009). Trait expression was variable in both groups and was generally consistent with Hefner's findings.
Season and drought stress mediate growth and weight of the green spruce aphid on Sitka spruce
Authors: Banfield‐Zanin Jennifer A. , Leather Simon R.
Published: July 2014

The most important defoliating pest of Sitka spruce Picea sitchensis in the U.K. is the green spruce aphid Elatobium abietinum. This aphid species is expected to respond to a predicted increase in the incidence of spring–summer drought events, with serious implications for growth of infested spruce plants and control of the pest.

Growth rate, adult weight and nymph weight of E. abietinum were assessed under controlled laboratory conditions, using five levels of spring–summer drought of differing intensities and frequencies. Trials were time‐staggered to investigate changes through season.

Growth rate, adult weight and nymph weight were consistently increased under low amplitude intermittent drought stress, suggesting improved host nutritional quality through the year and increased fecundity.

A complex response under severe and low amplitude intermittent drought stress was also observed, mediated by season. Although an overall reduction in host quality was typically observed, continuous severe stress improved host quality during the autumn. Despite this, the onset of dormancy was unaffected.

The findings of the present study have implications for E. abietinum population development, Sitka spruce growth and biological control of the species under climate change and increased drought frequency.
Acute and perinatal programming effects of a fat‐rich diet on rat muscle mitochondrial function and hepatic lipid accumulation
Authors: Hellgren Lars I. , Jensen Runa I. , Waterstradt Michelle S.G. , Quistorff Bjørn , Lauritzen Lotte
Published: July 2014

Objective

Maternal high‐fat intake during pregnancy may have long‐term consequences in the offspring. Since this might relate to the capacity of mitochondrial metabolic adaptation and hepatic lipid metabolism, we investigated how maternal high‐fat intake affected mitochondrial function and hepatic steatosis in the offspring.

Design

Sprague–Dawley rats were fed a high‐fat (20% w/w) or a control diet (chow, C) from 10 days before pregnancy and throughout lactation. At weaning the litters were split into two groups; one was continued on the maternal diet and the other was fed low‐fat chow.

Sample

Skeletal muscle mitochondria and liver lipids.

Methods

Mitochondrial respiration and hepatic lipid content were determined during and after weaning, on days 20 and 70 postpartum.

Main outcome measures

Mitochondrial function and hepatic lipids.

Results

At 20 days, maternal high‐fat diet caused increased Vo2max with pyruvate as substrate (p = 0.047), at 70 days, pups born by C‐dams, but not those born by high‐fat‐dams, showed increased oxidation of palmitoylcarnitine in the absence of ADP (p = 0.018). Rates of ADP‐stimulated oxygen consumption, maximal respiratory capacity and mitochondrial respiratory control ratio with pyruvate, increased post weaning (p < 0.001), whereas respiratory control ratio with palmitoylcarnitine decreased (p = 0.013). The increase in respiratory control ratio was most pronounced in pups from C‐dams (p = 0.05). The high‐fat‐diet caused pronounced hepatic steatosis in pups at weaning (p < 0.001), without concomitant ceramide accumulation, while high‐fat‐feeding after weaning induced triacylglycerol and ceramide accumulation (p < 0.01), regardless of maternal diet.

Conclusion

Intake of a fat‐rich diet during pregnancy and lactation reduced the age‐induced increases in un‐coupled fat oxidation.
Phytoestrogen α‐Zearalanol exerts Antiapoptotic Effects in Differentiated PC12 Cells via Oestrogen Receptor α
Authors: Dong Yi Long , Wang Yan Mei , Yang Hong Ju , Yang Xiao Zhou , Yu Hai Jing
Published: July 2014

Our previous studies have demonstrated that phytoestrogen α‐zearalanol (α‐ZAL) possesses potential benefits in alleviating cell apoptotic death just like oestrogen. However, the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. This study was designed to test the hypothesis that the neuroprotective effect of α‐ZAL is mediated by oestrogen receptor (ER) as α‐ZAL owns the benzene ring structure may interact with ER. The present results showed a significant increase in apoptosis in differentiated PC12 cells after a 24‐hr exposure to amyloid β‐peptide fragment 25‐35 (Aβ25‐35), accompanied by decreasing of bcl‐2 expression and increasing bax expression, whereas a pre‐treatment with α‐ZAL ameliorated these changes induced by Aβ25‐35. In addition, the α‐ZAL‐mediated cytoprotection was abrogated by ERα antagonist but not by ERβ antagonist. In summary, these data suggest that α‐ZAL intervenes against Aβ‐induced apoptosis via intersecting bcl‐2‐bax apoptotic pathway in an ERα‐sensitive manner.
Heteromerization of GPR55 and cannabinoid CB2 receptors modulates signalling
Authors: Balenga N A , Martínez‐Pinilla E , Kargl J , Schröder R , Peinhaupt M , Platzer W , Bálint Z , Zamarbide M , Dopeso‐Reyes I G , Ricobaraza A , Pérez‐Ortiz J M , Kostenis E , Waldhoer M , Heinemann A , Franco R
Published: July 2014

Background and Purpose

Heteromerization of GPCRs is key to the integration of extracellular signals and the subsequent cell response via several mechanisms including heteromer‐selective ligand binding, trafficking and/or downstream signalling. As the lysophosphatidylinositol GPCR 55 (GPR55) has been shown to affect the function of the cannabinoid receptor subtype 2 (CB2 receptor) in human neutrophils, we investigated the possible heteromerization of CB2 receptors with GPR55.

Experimental Approach

The direct interaction of human GPR55 and CB2 receptors heterologously expressed in HEK293 cells was assessed by co‐immunoprecipitation and bioluminescence resonance energy transfer assays. The effect of cross‐talk on signalling was investigated at downstream levels by label‐free real‐time methods (Epic dynamic mass redistribution and CellKey impedance assays), ERK1/2‐MAPK activation and gene reporter assays.

Key Results

GPR55 and CB2 receptors co‐localized on the surface of HEK293 cells, co‐precipitated in membrane extracts and formed heteromers in living HEK293 cells. Whereas heteromerization led to a reduction in GPR55‐mediated activation of transcription factors (nuclear factor of activated T‐cells, NF‐κB and cAMP response element), ERK1/2‐MAPK activation was potentiated in the presence of CB2 receptors. CB2 receptor‐mediated signalling was also affected by co‐expression with GPR55. Label‐free assays confirmed cross‐talk between the two receptors.

Conclusions and Implications

Heteromers, unique signalling units, form in HEK293 cells expressing GPR55 and CB2 receptors. The signalling by agonists of either receptor was governed (i) by the presence or absence of the partner receptors (with the consequent formation of heteromers) and (ii) by the activation state of the partner receptor.
Innovations in Practice: Adapting a specialized ADHD parenting programme for use with ‘hard to reach’ and ‘difficult to treat’ preschool children
Authors: McEwan Fiona , Thompson Margaret , Laver‐Bradbury Cathy , Jefferson Harriet , Koerting Johanna , Smith Elizabeth , Knowles Mark , McCann Donna , Daley David , Barton Jo , Latter Sue , Elsey Helen , Sonuga‐Barke Edmund
Published: July 2014

Background

Effective implementation of parent training programmes for preschool Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder type is constrained by barriers limiting take‐up and effective engagement by ‘hard to reach’ and ‘difficult to treat’ families.

Method

We describe an evidence‐driven adaptation and piloting of an existing empirically supported preschool ADHD parenting programme to address these problems.

Results

The New Forest Parenting programme was changed substantially in terms of length; content and delivery on the basis of information gathered from the literature, from parents and practitioners, further modifications were made after the pilot study.

Conclusions

The adapted‐NFPP is currently being assessed for efficacy in a large multicentre randomized controlled trial.
Assessing the performance of a spectral reflectance estimation method based on a diffraction grating and a spectroradiometer
Authors: Javoršek Dejana , Jerman Tim , Rat Blaž , Hladnik Aleš
Published: July 2014

Constant improvements in digital cameras have made it possible to use these devices for colour acquisition and reproduction at an advanced level. It is known that a colour match for all observers when changing illumination can only be achieved by matching spectral data. Obtaining spectral data from digital camera RGB values could provide a new way of using the digital camera as a spectrophotometric tool or as a high‐quality colour‐capturing system that is required in more demanding applications. In the present study, two spectral reflectance estimation methods were examined – the Imai–Berns method (ImaiBerns) and the spectral‐sensitivity‐based method (SpecSens). The purpose of the research was to simplify the procedure of the SpecSens method by using a diffraction grating and a spectroradiometer instead of a monochromator, and to compare the results with those of the ImaiBerns approach. Obtained spectral reflectance estimates were evaluated using the root‐mean‐square error and ∆E00 metrics. Results of the research show that the ImaiBerns method was superior to SpecSens, most likely because the former method does not require knowledge of the camera spectral sensitivities, which often introduces errors into reflectance estimation calculations. Both methods were successful in predicting black, brownish, and dark patches, as indicated by a low root‐mean‐square error, as well as unsaturated pastel, pink, or skin colours, which produced low ∆E00 values. On the other hand, many of the patches with a low root‐mean‐square error also exhibited high ∆E00 values, while bright, nearly‐white patches were characterised by a high root‐mean‐square error.
Synthesis and ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopic and electrochemical analyses of dyes derived from 2‐aminobenzothiazole, and study of their adsorption on titanium dioxide
Authors: Maruszewska Anna , Podsiadły Radosław
Published: July 2014

A series of Schiff bases with hydroxyl anchoring group/s in various positions were synthesised. Their visible light absorption and electrochemical and physicochemical adsorption properties were investigated. Results show that the studied compounds have adequate highest‐occupied‐molecular‐orbital and lowest‐unoccupied‐molecular‐orbital levels that match with the conduction band of titanium dioxide and the redox potential of the electrolyte. Adsorption of azomethine compounds with hydroxyl group/s on titanium dioxide was studied. Experimental data show that the introduction of two β‐hydroxyethyl groups can greatly enhance the adsorption efficiency of the studied Schiff base on titanium dioxide. Sorption kinetics was measured for di‐(β‐hydroxyethyl)aminobenzyliden‐2‐aminobenzothiazol. Results show rapid initial sorption (<30 min), followed by a slower rate of increasing uptake between 0.5 and 6 h. Kinetic data were modelled using pseudo‐first‐order, pseudo‐second‐order, and intraparticle diffusion kinetics equations. These results indicate that the pseudo‐second‐order equation and intraparticle diffusion model can better describe the adsorption kinetics of di‐(β‐hydroxyethyl)aminobenzyliden‐2‐aminobenzothiazol onto titanium dioxide.
Epithelium‐dependent profibrotic milieu in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: current status and future directions
Authors: Xu Xuefeng , Dai Huaping , Wang Chen
Published: July 2014

Background and Aim

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is characterized by hyperplasia of type II alveolar epithelial cells, aggregation of activated (myo)fibroblasts and excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, which will ultimately lead to lung architecture destruction with no proven effective therapies. Despite a significant increase in our understanding on the etiology and pathogenesis of IPF, the real triggers that initiate epithelial cell injury and promote fibrosis evolution are still elusive. We wanted to discuss the evolution of hypothesis on IPF pathogenesis and to suggest some new directions which need to be further elucidated.

Methods

We have done a literature search in PubMed database by using the term ‘idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis’ AND (pathogenesis OR inflammation OR wound healing OR apoptosis OR extracellular matrix OR animal model).

Results

Inflammatory hypothesis had been the dominant idea for several decades which suggests that chronic inflammation drives the onset and advance of the fibrotic process. However, it is seriously challenged nowadays because lung tissues from IPF patients exhibit little inflammatory lesions. Also, anti‐inflammation therapy failed to exert a beneficial effect to IPF patients. Furthermore, experimental lung fibrosis can be realized independent of inflammation. Today, modern paradigm suggests that IPF is mainly driven by the profibtic milieu formed by epithelial injury/ disability and dysregulated epithelial mesenchymal interaction.

Conclusions

Epithelium‐dependent profibrotic milieu formation and mesenchymal activation is the current view on the pathogenesis of IPF. New evidence from more analogous animal models may emerge and shift our thinking to a new and more faithful concept in the future.
The Figure‐of‐Eight Artifact in the Echocardiographic Assessment of Percutaneous Disc Occluders: Impact of Imaging Depth and Device Type
Authors: Bertrand Philippe B. , Grieten Lars , Smeets Christophe J.P. , Verbrugge Frederik H. , Mullens Wilfried , Vrolix Mathias , Rivero‐Ayerza Maximo , Verhaert David , Vandervoort Pieter M.
Published: July 2014

Purpose

Echocardiography is increasingly important in the guidance and follow‐up of percutaneous transcatheter device closures. It was recently shown that the Amplatzer left atrial appendage occluder frequently presents as a figure‐of‐eight artifact due to interaction of device mesh and ultrasound waves. It remains unknown whether this can be translated to other types of disc occluders. Furthermore, the morphology of this figure‐of‐eight artifact appears to be different in the transesophageal and transthoracic image of the same device. The aim of this study was to evaluate the echocardiographic appearance of different types of disc occluders, and to clarify differences in morphology of the figure‐of‐eight artifact.

Methods

A mathematical model of an epitrochoid curve was used for numerical simulation of disc occluder appearance at various imaging depths. In addition, an in vitro setup was used for echocardiographic analysis of different types of disc occluders at adjustable imaging depth and position.

Results

Mathematically, decreasing the imaging depth resulted in a more asymmetric figure‐of‐eight, i.e. with small upper part and wide lower part. In vitro results were in close agreement with the mathematical results. In addition, in vitro a figure‐of‐eight artifact was obtained in all different types of disc occluder devices.

Conclusions

Different types of percutaneous disc occluders all present as a figure‐of‐eight artifact on echocardiography when imaged from a coronal imaging position. The morphology of the artifact depends on the imaging depth, with a more asymmetric figure‐of‐eight morphology at smaller probe‐to‐device distance. This clarifies the differences observed between transesophageal and transthoracic imaging.
Two‐Dimensional Measurement of Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion in Children: Can It Substitute for an M‐Mode Assessment?
Authors: Qureshi Muhammad Yasir , Eidem Benjamin W. , Reece Chelsea L. , O'Leary Patrick W.
Published: July 2014

Background

Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion measured by M‐mode (MM‐TAPSE) has been validated as a marker of right ventricular systolic performance. A similar measurement by 2D imaging (2D‐TAPSE) can be obtained. We sought to determine the correlation and strength of agreement between MM‐TAPSE and 2D‐TAPSE in children.

Methods

Echocardiographic studies performed for clinical indications were reviewed retrospectively. All consecutive subjects ≤18 years of age were included. The cohort was divided into those with normal echocardiographic findings and those with disorders affecting the right ventricle. Digitally recorded images were analyzed for both MM‐TAPSE and 2D‐TAPSE. Measurements of 2D‐TAPSE were made in an apical four‐chamber view, from the tricuspid valve annulus to a consistent point at the apex of the imaging sector at end‐diastole and end‐systole, with the difference representing the 2D‐TAPSE value.

Results

A total of 329 subjects (mean age 9.0 ± 6.1 years) met entry criteria. Correlation coefficient between MM‐TAPSE and 2D‐TAPSE was 0.90. Bland–Altman analysis showed agreement between the two methods to be within 1.2 ± 2.6 mm (mean percentage difference of 6.5%). About 1 mm difference between MM‐TAPSE and 2D‐TAPSE was consistently observed in all diagnostic subgroups, and across all age categories.

Conclusion

MM‐TAPSE and 2D‐TAPSE correlate strongly, with 2D‐TAPSE being consistently about 1 mm less than values obtained by the M‐mode technique. We conclude that 2D‐TAPSE can provide a reliable alternative to MM‐TAPSE to quantitatively measure right ventricular systolic function and may be especially useful in situations where retrospective comparisons are sought.
Intramural Hematoma and Oozing Rupture of Left Atrium after Resection of Wide‐Based Left Atrial Myxoma
Authors: Ohira Suguru , Doi Kiyoshi , Maeda Sachiko , Yaku Hitoshi
Published: July 2014

We describe a rare complication after the resection of the left atrial (LA) myxoma. After tumor resection, a large defect of the endocardium was reinforced with an autologous pericardial patch. Transesophageal echocardiography demonstrated a hematoma and pulsatile flow beneath the patch, without patch perforation or detachment. Bleeding increased after closure of the sternum. Intramural hematoma and oozing rupture of the LA were diagnosed. A small intramural vessel of the LA was identified as the main causative site of bleeding. The pericardial patch was repositioned with fibrin glue. Fibrin sheets and glue were applied for reinforcement of the LA from outside.
Changes in Speckle Tracking Echocardiography Measures of Ventricular Function after Percutaneous Implantation of the Edwards SAPIEN Transcatheter Heart Valve in the Pulmonary Position
Authors: Chowdhury Shahryar M. , Hijazi Ziyad M. , Rhodes John F. , Kar Saibal , Makkar Raj , Mullen Michael , Cao Qi‐Ling , Mandinov Lazar , Buckley Jason , Pietris Nicholas P. , Shirali Girish S.
Published: July 2014

Background

Patients with free pulmonary regurgitation or mixed pulmonary stenosis and regurgitation and severely dilated right ventricles (RV) show little improvement in ventricular function after pulmonary valve replacement when assessed by traditional echocardiographic markers. We evaluated changes in right and left ventricular (LV) function using speckle tracking echocardiography in patients after SAPIEN transcatheter pulmonary valve (TPV) placement.

Methods

Echocardiograms were evaluated at baseline, discharge, 1 and 6 months after TPV placement in 24 patients from 4 centers. Speckle tracking measures of function included peak longitudinal strain, strain rate, and early diastolic strain rate. RV fractional area change, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, and left ventricular LV ejection fraction were assessed. Routine Doppler and tissue Doppler velocities were measured.

Results

At baseline, all patients demonstrated moderate to severe pulmonary regurgitation; this improved following TPV placement. No significant changes were detected in conventional measures of RV or LV function at 6 months. RV longitudinal strain (−16.9% vs. −19.6%, P < 0.01), strain rate (−0.87 s−1 vs. −1.16 s−1, P = 0.01), and LV longitudinal strain (−16.2% vs. −18.2%, P = 0.01) improved between baseline and 6 month follow‐up. RV early diastolic strain rate, LV longitudinal strain rate and early diastolic strain rate showed no change.

Conclusion

Improvements in RV longitudinal strain, strain rate, and LV longitudinal strain are seen at 6 months post‐TPV. Diastolic function does not appear to change at 6 months. Speckle tracking echocardiography may be more sensitive than traditional measures in detecting changes in systolic function after TPV implantation.
Cryphonectria hypovirus 1 (CHV‐1) survey reveals low occurrence and diversity of subtypes in NE Spain
Authors: Castaño C. , Bassie L. , Oliach D. , Gómez M. , Medina V. , Liu B. , Colinas C.
Published: July 2014

Cryphonectria parasitica (Murrill.) Barr is a necrotrophic fungus that affects European chestnut populations. In Catalonia (NE Spain), this fungus is widely spread affecting chestnut stands. In addition to vegetative compatibility (VC) types of the fungus, knowledge of the Cryphonectria hypovirus (CHV) occurrence is important to implement a biocontrol programme. We confirmed the presence of hypoviruses in several chestnut subpopulations of Catalonia, and we determined the VC types of CHV‐infected isolates. We also studied the nucleotide sequences of these hypoviruses from a variable region located in the hypovirus ORF‐A. Our results show a low occurrence of hypoviruses throughout C. parasitica populations in Catalonia, except for a few localized stands. From 312 sampled cankers, we obtained 179 white, pale orange or rickety isolates. In 35 of them, we detected CHV‐1. Infected isolates belonged to 5 of the 7 sampled subpopulations. We found 12 CHV‐1 haplotypes, based on the nucleotide sequence analysis. Most of the hypoviruses have the same nucleotide sequence or show high homology at nucleotide level with isolates previously included in CHV‐1 subtype‐I. However, we found that 3 haplotypes share at least 97% of their ORF‐A nucleotide sequence with CHV‐1 subtype‐E. Phylogenetic analysis grouped these 3 isolates in a different cluster than the other hypoviruses. These results suggest that multiple introductions of CHV‐1 have occurred recently in Catalonia. Dominant VC types of hypovirus‐infected isolates are EU‐1, EU‐2 and EU‐5, which are similar to those previously reported in this region.
Inverse modelling of cosmic‐ray soil moisture for field‐scale soil hydraulic parameters
Authors: Rivera Villarreyes C. A. , Baroni G. , Oswald S. E.
Published: July 2014

We used inverse modelling techniques and soil moisture measured by the cosmic‐ray neutron sensing (CRS) to estimate root‐zone soil hydraulic properties at the field scale. A HYDRUS‐1D model was developed for inverse modelling and calibrated with parameter estimation software (PEST) using a global optimizer. Integral CRS measurements recorded from a sunflower farm in Germany comprised the model input. Data were transformed to soil water storage to enable direct model calibration with a HYDRUS soil‐water balance. Effective properties at the CRS scale were compared against local measurements and other inversely estimated soil properties from independent soil moisture profiles. Moreover, CRS‐scale soil properties were tested on the basis of how field soil moisture (vertical distribution) and soil water storage were reproduced. This framework provided good estimates of effective soil properties at the CRS scale. Simulated soil moisture at different depths at the CRS scale agreed with field observations. Moreover, simulated soil water storage at the CRS scale compared well with calculations from point‐scale profiles, despite their different support volumes. The CRS‐scale soil properties estimated with the inverse model were within the range of variation of properties identified from all inverse simulations at the local scale. This study demonstrates the potential of CRS for inverse estimation of soil hydraulic properties.
The variable phenotypes of KCNQ‐related epilepsy
Authors: Allen Nicholas M. , Mannion Maria , Conroy Judith , Lynch Sally A. , Shahwan Amre , Lynch Bryan , King Mary D.
Published: July 2014

Mutations in KCNQ2 and KCNQ3 were originally described in infants with benign familial neonatal seizures (BFNS). Recently, KCNQ2 mutations have also been shown to cause epileptic encephalopathy. This report describes three infants carrying abnormalities of KCNQ2 and one infant with a KCNQ3 mutation. The different KCNQ2 abnormalities led to different phenotypes and included a novel intragenic duplication, c.419_430dup, in an infant with BFNS, a 0.761Mb 20q13.3 contiguous gene deletion in an infant with seizures at 3 months, and a recurrent de novo missense mutation c.881C>T in a neonate with “KCNQ2‐encephalopathy.” The mutation in KCNQ3, c.989G>A, was novel and occurred in an infant with BFNS. KCNQ‐related seizures often present with tonic/clonic manifestations, cyanosis, or apnea. Certain genotype–phenotype correlations help predict outcome. Similarly affected family members suggests benign familial “KCNQ‐related” epilepsy, whereas neonatal seizures with unexplained multifocal epileptiform discharges or burst suppression on electroencephalography, and acute abnormalities of the basal ganglia/thalami are suggestive of KCNQ2‐encephalopathy, which is often sporadic. 20q13.33 contiguous gene deletion encompassing KCNQ2 may harbor atypical features depending on deletion size. Although the phenotype often guides direct targeted gene testing in these conditions, array CGH should also be considered in suspected sporadic or atypical familial cases to diagnose 20q13.33 deletion.
Sequence‐based characterization of five SLA loci in Asian wild boars
Authors: Jung W. Y. , Choi N. R. , Seo D. W. , Lim H. T. , Ho C. S. , Lee J. H.
Published: July 2014

Two swine leucocyte antigen (SLA) class I (SLA‐1 and SLA‐2) and three class II (DRB1, DQB1 and DQA) genes were investigated for their diversity in Asian wild boars using a sequence‐based typing method. A total of 15 alleles were detected at these loci, with eleven being novel. The findings provide one of the first glimpses of the SLA allelic diversity and architecture in the wild boar populations.
Medication adherence in adolescents in current practice: community pharmacy staff’s opinions
Authors: Koster Ellen S , Philbert Daphne , Winters Nina A , Bouvy Marcel L
Published: July 2014

Objective

To explore pharmacy staff’s perspectives regarding medication use behaviour in adolescent patients.

Methods

Structured face-to-face interviews were conducted with 170 community pharmacy staff members.

Key findings

Medication-related problems in adolescents had been experienced by 80 respondents; non-adherence was frequently mentioned (n = 73). An important reason for medication-related problems in adolescents not being recognised was that prescriptions are often collected by the parents (with or without the teenager). Solutions suggested by the interviewees to improve adolescents’ medication use behaviour included (improving) counselling with emphasis on necessity/benefits of medication (n = 130) and more direct contact with adolescents instead of parent(s) (n = 77). Use of digital media for educational purposes or reminder services was suggested to support medication use (n = 67).

Conclusions

Almost half of pharmacy staff experienced problems related to medication use in adolescents. Pharmacy staff see a primary role for counselling on the benefits of therapy but foresee difficulties in obtaining direct contact with adolescents. Use of new media could be useful.
Soluble MHC‐II proteins promote suppressive activity in CD4+ T cells
Authors: Bakela Katerina , Kountourakis Nikos , Aivaliotis Michalis , Athanassakis Irene
Published: July 2014

Soluble MHCII (sMHCII) molecules are present in body fluids of healthy individuals and are considered to be involved in the maintenance of self tolerance, and are also related to various diseases. Their concentration increases during in vivo antigen‐specific tolerogenic stimulation and it was recently shown that exosome‐mediated tolerance is MHCII dependent. At the cellular level, sMHCII proteins compete with membrane MHCII for T‐cell receptor binding on CD4+ T cells. Immunoaffinity purification techniques isolated sMHCII antigens from the serum of human serum albumin (HSA) ‐tolerant mice as a single highly glycosylated protein of ~ 60 000 molecular weight, specifically interacting with anti‐class II antibodies in Western blotting and ELISA. Mass spectroscopy showed that these sMHCII proteins were loaded with the tolerogenic peptide as well as multiple self peptides. At the cellular level, sMHCII suppressed antigen‐specific, and to a lesser degree antigen‐non‐specific, spleen cell proliferation and induced CD25 in naive T cells. In T cells activated by antigen‐seeded macrophages, sMHCII decreased CD28 and increased CTLA‐4 protein expression, while decreasing interleukin‐2 and increasing interleukin‐10 production. In this case, sMHCII proteins were shown to decrease ZAP‐70 and LAT phosphorylation. The results presented here for the first time provide evidence for the role of sMHCII proteins in immune response suppression and maintenance of tolerance, revealing novel regulatory mechanisms for immune system manipulation.
Oral health‐related quality of life of schoolchildren: impact of clinical and psychosocial variables
Authors: Schuch Helena Silveira , dos Santos Costa Francine , Torriani Dione Dias , Demarco Flávio Fernando , Goettems Marília Leão
Published: July 2014

Background

Besides the clinical aspects, the patient's perspective of oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) may be influenced by a series of individual characteristics.

Aim

The aim was to investigate the impact of clinical and psychosocial variables on the OHRQoL of Brazilian schoolchildren.

Design

A school‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted with children of 8–10 year old attending public (15) and private (5) schools (n = 749). Questionnaires were applied to parents to obtain socioeconomic characteristics, and children were interviewed. Assessment of OHRQoL was performed using the Child Perceptions Questionnaire 8–10 (CPQ). Oral health examinations included periodontal condition, dental caries, dental trauma, and malocclusion assessment. Unadjusted analyses were undertaken using t‐tests and one‐way analysis of variance. Multiple linear regression was used to assess the effects of independent variables on CPQ scores.

Results

Factors associated with higher CPQ scores in the linear regression analysis after adjustments were family income, presence of decayed teeth, self‐reported dental trauma, dental fear, and dental pain.

Conclusion

Oral health‐related quality of life was influenced by psychosocial and clinical variables.
The perceived probability of job loss and future labour market outcomes
Authors: McGuinness Seamus , Wooden Mark , Hahn Markus
Published: July 2014

Longitudinal survey data are used to test the degree to which worker expectations of future job loss are correlated with changes in labour market status. Three major findings are reported. First, perceived probabilities of expected job loss are only weakly related to both exogenous job separations and subsequent transitions to unemployment and inactivity. Second, while fears of job loss tend to persist across time and job spells, they do so at a highly diminishing rate. Third, quit intentions are strongly correlated with both voluntary separations and transitions to alternative employment, and do not diminish greatly across successive employment spells.
The dark side of solidarity: social norms and social relations in the aftermath of strikes
Authors: Thommes Kirsten , Akkerman Agnes , Torenvlied René , Born Marieke
Published: July 2014

This paper studies how employees anticipate change in social relations after a strike in their organisation. We hypothesise that two group norms affect employees' fear that a strike deteriorates the social relations with their colleagues. We distinguish between two different norms associated with a collective action problem such as a strike. A ‘solidarity norm’ prescribes that workers should participate in collective protest when called for. A ‘free rider punishment norm’ describes whether and how violators of the solidarity norm should be treated. While the former itself theoretically does not impact intra‐group social relations, the latter one does. We test our hypotheses on a data set of 468Dutch union members. Adherence to the free rider punishment norm significantly increases a fear for deterioration of social relations with colleagues after a strike, while adherence to the solidarity norm does not. We also find a moderating effect of expected proportion of strikers. The results are discussed with reference to industrial relations theory and mobilisation theory, further probing into mechanisms that relate social norms to the (anticipated) costs of participation and the quality of social relations after a strike.
Psychiatric Morbidity in Psoriasis and Vitiligo: A Comparative Study
Authors: Sharma Neelu , Koranne Ravindra V. , Singh Rajiv K.
Published: July 2014

The psychiatric morbidity in psoriasis patients was compared with that in vitiligo patients using the standardised Hindi (vernacular language) version of the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ‐H). Thirty new and untreated patients each with psoriasis or vitiligo and between the ages of 18–60 yrs, constituted the study group. The prevalences of psychiatric morbidity as assessed by the GHQ‐H were found to be 53.3% and 16.22% in the psoriasis and vitiligo patients respectively; the difference was statistically significant (p=0.0028). The prevalences of depression were 23.3% and 10% in psoriasis and vitiligo respectively and anxiety was observed in 3.3% of each group. Sleep disturbance was the most common complaint and was present in 56.6% of psoriasis patients and 20% of the vitiligo patients. However, the parameter of sleep disturbance showed a statistically significant difference between the two dermatoses (p=0.0034).
Lupus Erythematosus Profundus with Unusual Skin Manifestation: Subcutaneous Nodules Coexisting with Eyelid Plaques
Authors: Inuzuka Manabu , Tomita Kouichi , Tokura Yoshiki , Takigawa Masahiro
Published: July 2014

A 71‐year‐old Japanese woman presented with erythematous plaques on the eyelids and subcutaneous indurations or nodules with or without overlying erythema on the hands, thigh, and leg. She also had oral ulcers, arthralgia and a low grade fever. Laboratory tests revealed an elevated titer of antinuclear antibody, an increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate and anemia. Skin biopsy specimens from the hand and thigh showed lymphocytic perivascular and periappendageal infiltrates and vacuolar alterations at the basement membrane zone of the skin appendages. Moreover, there was a dense lymphocytic infiltrate deep in the dermis with extension into the subcutaneous fat, which was compatible with the diagnosis of lupus erythematosus profundus. Although the biopsy specimen from the eyelid lesion did not contain the subcutaneous fat, the changes in the dermis were essentially the same as those of the hand and thigh. The eruption as well as the other symptoms promptly responded to oral prednisolone.
Tuberculosis of the Vulva Masquerading as a Sexually Transmitted Disease
Authors: Sardana Kabir , Koranne Ravindra V. , Sharma Ravi C. , Mahajan Supriya
Published: July 2014

Tuberculosis of the vulva is a rare condition usually seen by a gynecologist. We report a case of chronic ulcer on the vulva of four months duration, which, on detailed investigation, turned out to be a case of primary inoculation tuberculosis. The patient was subsequently put on antitubercular therapy with a good the therapeutic response. The rarity of this presentation in dermato‐venereology is emphasized.
Cutaneous Wound Healing: An Update
Authors: Yamaguchi Yuji , Yoshikawa Kunihiko
Published: July 2014

Our understanding of wound‐healing mechanisms has progressed over the past decade. Wound healing is traditionally divided into three phases—the inflammatory phase, the proliferation phase, and the remodeling phase— and involves a well‐orchestrated interaction among blood vessels (platelets, macrophages, neutrophils, endothelial cells, and smooth muscle cells), epidermis (keratinocytes, melanocytes, and Langerhans cells), adnexal structures (outer root sheath cells and hair dermal papilla cells), dermis (fibroblasts and myofibroblasts), nervous system (neurons), and subcutaneous fatty layers (adipocytes). We review recent discoveries of basic and clinical aspects of wound healing including several revolutions that occurred in wound management: occlusive dressing therapy, use of living skin equivalents, and topical administration of growth factors. As we previously proposed, the use of tissue substitutes and autologous epidermal sheets led to a new concept of skin grafting through the keratinocyte activation phase in the graft healing mechanism. In this review, we also discuss a representative patient who presented with plantar wounds caused by calcaneal osteomyelitis and healed by the coverage of epidermal grafting.
Papular Elastorrhexis in Childhood Improved by Intralesional Injections of Triamcinolone
Authors: Lee Seung‐Hyun , Park Sun‐Hoo , Song Kye‐Yong , Yoon Tae‐Jin , Kim Tae‐Heung
Published: July 2014

Papular elastorrhexis is a rare disease developing asymptomatic skin‐colored small papules in adolescence with histopathological loss of elastic fibers. There has been no established treatment for this disease. A 4‐year‐old Korean boy had multiple, hard, whitish papules on his chest and back for one year. Histopathologic examination revealed focal loss of elastic fibers in the dermis, and X‐ray examination showed no bony abnormalities. His skin lesions were improved by intralesional injections of triamcinolone but recurred after four months.
A Case of Cutaneous Bronchogenic Cyst Over the Left Scapula
Authors: Yu Hee‐Joon , Kwon Hyeok‐Man , Park Jin‐Woo , Hwang Dong‐Kyu , Ahn Duck‐Kyoon , Park Yong Wook
Published: July 2014

Bronchogenic cyst is noted shortly after birth or in early childhood and usually presents as a swelling or draining sinus in the presternal area. Its origin and pathogenesis can be explained as a developmental anomaly of the tracheobronchial buds from the primitive foregut. The patient was a 4‐year‐old boy with a child‐fist‐sized soft mass over his left scapula, which had been detected at birth and had been gradually growing. Grossly, it appeared to be a simple cyst with clear mucoid fluid. Histopathological study demonstrated a unilocular cyst composed of ciliated pseudostratified columnar epithelia, interspersed goblet cells, smooth muscles, and mucous glands on the cyst wall, which are features compatible with cutaneous bronchogenic cyst.
Skin, Sun, and Vitamin A: From Aging to Cancer
Authors: Saurat Jean‐Hilaire
Published: July 2014

Human epidermis contains significant amounts of Vitamin A, the enzymes responsible for its metabolism toward either storage or activation, the binding proteins for its protection and specific transport, and the nuclear receptors involved in the vitamin A‐induced gene‐activity modulation. This complex system may be drastically altered upon ultraviolet light exposure because vitamin A absorbs in the UVB range. We have conducted a series of experiments in order to analyse the effects of UV exposure on the epidermal stores of endogenous vitamin A (retinol and retinyl esters), the activity of enzymes and binding proteins, and some biological parameters such as apoptosis transcription factors expression (cJun) and thymine dimers. Current data indicate that the vitamin A system is a direct target of both UVB and UVA and participates in an adaptive response to UV exposure. The physiological role of this adaptive response to acute and chronic sun exposure should be further analysed. Interfering with this UV‐induced vitamin A deficiency is a new concept for the prevention of skin cancer and aging.
The Public Health Approach to the Burden of Common Skin Diseases in the Community
Authors: Marks Robin
Published: July 2014

The vast majority of work performed by dermatologists in clinical practice is managing common skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, acne, tinea, warts and in some countries skin cancer and in others skin infections. Governments and other health organisations rely on data to plan medical services. Dermatologists seek the same data to justify their existence. In Australia, we have been studying the frequency of these conditions showing that they are very common, with particular conditions occurring at particular ages. Our data show also that less than 50% of people seek advice from the medical practitioner, with pharmacists being the most common of the other sources of advice. People are frequently misinformed about their conditions and may be using treatment that is of no value. These data suggest the need for both public and professional education programs informing the public where to seek correct advice and teaching those who provide it to ensure that they have the knowledge to do so.
Traveling through Skin Manifestations of HIV in 2001
Authors: Rico M. Joyce
Published: July 2014

There are currently over 34 million people worldwide infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) with 15,000 new patients infected each day. The acquired immunodefiency syndrome (AIDS) pandemic has particularly affected the third world and currently over 70% of those infected reside in sub‐Saharan Africa. The epicenter of the pandemic is shifting to Asia as HIV infection increases in the densely populated countries of India, China, and SE Asia. Patients with HIV infection develop a variety of mucocutaneous diseases and often present to dermatologists.