bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CUG‐binding protein 1 (CUGBP1) expression and prognosis of brain metastases from non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Wang Xiaofei , Jiao Wenjie , Zhao Yandong , Zhang Liangdong , Yao Ruyong , Wang Yongjie , Wang Mingzhao , Luo Yiren , Zhao Jinpeng
Published: May 2015

Background

The brain is a frequent site of metastases from non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The purpose of this study was to detect the expression of CUG‐binding protein 1 (CUGBP1) messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and Ki‐67 in metastasized brain tissue from NSCLC and determine the relationship between CUGBP1 and brain metastases.

Methods

The expression of CUGBP1 mRNA and Ki‐67 in metastasized brain tissue from NSCLC was investigated by semiquantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The expression of CUGBP1 and Ki‐67 in metastasized brain tissue from NSCLC was related to clinical characteristics, as assessed using the chi‐square test. The prognostic significance was assessed by univariate and multivariate analyses using the Cox hazard model.

Results

The expression of CUGBP1 mRNA and Ki‐67 was overexpressed in metastasized brain tissue from NSCLC and was correlated with differentiation. In addition, by both univariate and multivariate survival analyses, CUGBP1 expression, Ki‐67 expression, and age were noted to be independent indicators of a shorter postsurgical survival.

Conclusion

The expression of CUGBP1 is an important factor in the development of brain metastases from NSCLC.
Nerve localization techniques for peripheral nerve block and possible future directions
Authors: Helen L. , O'Donnell B. D. , Moore E.
Published: May 2015

Background

Ultrasound guidance is now a standard nerve localization technique for peripheral nerve block (PNB). Ultrasonography allows simultaneous visualization of the target nerve, needle, local anesthetic injectate, and surrounding anatomical structures. Accurate deposition of local anesthetic next to the nerve is essential to the success of the nerve block procedure. Due to limitations in the visibility of both needle tip and nerve surface, the precise relationship between needle tip and target nerve is unknown at the moment of injection. Importantly, nerve injury may result both from an inappropriately placed needle tip and inappropriately placed local anesthetic. The relationship between the block needle tip and target nerve is of paramount importance to the safe conduct of peripheral nerve block.

Methods

This review summarizes the evolution of nerve localization in regional anesthesia, characterizes a problem faced by clinicians in performing ultrasound‐guided nerve block, and explores the potential technological solutions to this problem.

Results

To date, technology newly applied to PNB includes real‐time 3D imaging, multi‐planar magnetic needle guidance, and inline injection pressure monitoring. This review postulates that optical reflectance spectroscopy and bioimpedance may allow for accurate identification of the relationship between needle tip and target nerve, currently a high priority deficit in PNB techniques.

Conclusions

Until it is known how best to define the relationship between needle and nerve at the moment of injection, some common sense principles are suggested.
Factor Structure of Subjective Responses to Alcohol in Light and Heavy Drinkers
Authors: Bujarski Spencer , Hutchison Kent E. , Roche Daniel J. O. , Ray Lara A.
Published: May 2015

Background

Subjective responses (SRs) to alcohol have been implicated in alcoholism etiology, yet less is known about the latent factor structure of alcohol responses. The aim of this study was to examine the factor structure of SR using a battery of self‐report measures during a controlled alcohol challenge.

Methods

Nontreatment seeking drinkers (N = 242) completed an intravenous alcohol challenge including the following SR measures: Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale, Subjective High Assessment Scale, Profile of Mood States, Alcohol Urge Questionnaire, and single items assessing alcohol “Liking” and “Wanting.” Ascending limb target breath alcohol concentrations were 0.02, 0.04, and 0.06, and descending limb target was 0.04 g/dl. Exploratory factor analyses were conducted separately on estimates of mean and dose responses on the ascending limb and on descending limb data. To examine the generalizability of this factor structure, these analyses were repeated in heavy drinkers (≥14 drinks/wk for men, ≥7 for women; n = 132) and light drinkers (i.e., nonheavy drinkers; n = 110).

Results

In the full sample, a 4‐factor solution was supported for ascending limb mean and dose responses and descending limb data representing the following SR domains: Stimulation/Hedonia, Craving/Motivation, Sedation/Motor Intoxication, and Negative Affect. This 4‐factor solution was replicated in heavy drinkers. In light drinkers, however, SR was better summarized by a 3‐factor solution where ascending mean and descending limb responses consisted of Stimulation/Hedonia, Craving/Motivation, and a general negative valence factor, and dose responses consisted of a general positive valence factor, Sedation/Motor Intoxication, and Negative Affect.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that SR represents a multifaceted construct with consistent factor structure across both ascending and descending limbs. Further, as drinking levels escalate, more defined Craving/Motivation and negative valence dimensions may emerge. Longitudinal studies examining these constructs are needed to further our understanding of SR as potentially sensitive to alcohol‐induced neuroadaptation.
An International Union for Conservation of Nature risk assessment of coastal lowland rainforests of the Wet Tropics Bioregion, Queensland, Australia
Authors: Metcalfe Daniel J. , Lawson T. J.
Published: May 2015

Lowland rainforest communities are among the most threatened across South‐east Asia as a result of ease of access, suitability for agriculture and proximity to population centres along the coast and to ports for export of timber, minerals and agricultural produce. In Australia, coastal lowland rainforest occupies a narrow band between the marine‐influenced littoral communities and the forests of the coastal ranges and uplands in the Wet Tropics Bioregion of north‐east Queensland. As the coastal lowlands were already highly fragmented, and subject to ongoing conversion for agriculture and urbanization, they were excluded from the World Heritage listing of the Wet Tropics of Queensland in 1988. Littoral rainforest and broad‐leaved tea‐tree swamps in the coastal zone have both recently been protected under Commonwealth environmental protection legislation; meanwhile, the remnant coastal lowland rainforest faces continued threats from extreme events, climate change, land management activities and introduced species. In a risk assessment based on IUCN guidelines, coastal lowland rainforest was assessed as endangered due to restricted distribution (full extent of the community encompassed by a minimum complex polygon less than 20 000 km2) in conjunction with qualitative evidence of disruption to biotic interactions. A second criterion related to the historic decline in geographic distribution (60% decline in distribution since 1750) would correspond to a condition of vulnerable. Coastal lowland rainforest on alluvial soils has been particularly impacted, and a 75% decline in distribution since 1760 would correspond to a condition of endangered for this subtype. We had insufficient data to address the remaining IUCN Red List criteria for ecosystems, but point to published studies which address these criteria at the subregional level, and make suggestions for future data collection, monitoring and analyses which may support future reviews or proposals for enhanced protection within an Australian legislative context.
Whole‐genome prediction of fatty acid composition in meat of Japanese Black cattle
Authors: Onogi A. , Ogino A. , Komatsu T. , Shoji N. , Shimizu K. , Kurogi K. , Yasumori T. , Togashi K. , Iwata H.
Published: May 2015

Because fatty acid composition influences the flavor and texture of meat, controlling it is particularly important for cattle breeds such as the Japanese Black, characterized by high meat quality. We evaluated the predictive ability of single‐step genomic best linear unbiased prediction (ssGBLUP) in fatty acid composition of Japanese Black cattle by assessing the composition of seven fatty acids in 3088 cattle, of which 952 had genome‐wide marker genotypes. All sires of the genotyped animals were genotyped, but their dams were not. Cross‐validation was conducted for the 952 animals. The prediction accuracy was higher with ssGBLUP than with best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) for all traits, and in an empirical investigation, the gain in accuracy of using ssGBLUP over BLUP increased as the deviations in phenotypic values of the animals increased. In addition, the superior accuracy of ssGBLUP tended to be more evident in animals whose maternal grandsire was genotyped than in other animals, although the effect was small.
Childhood asthma is associated with mutations and gene expression differences of ORMDL genes that can interact
Authors: Toncheva A. A. , Potaczek D. P. , Schedel M. , Gersting S. W. , Michel S. , Krajnov N. , Gaertner V. D. , Klingbeil J. M. , Illig T. , Franke A. , Winkler C. , Hohlfeld J. M. , Vogelberg C. , von Berg A. , Bufe A. , Heinzmann A. , Laub O. , Rietschel E. , Simma B. , Genuneit J. , Muntau A. C. , Kabesch M.
Published: May 2015

Background

Genomewide association studies identified ORMDL3 as a plausible asthma candidate gene. ORMDL proteins regulate sphingolipid metabolism and ceramide homeostasis and participate in lymphocyte activation and eosinophil recruitment. Strong sequence homology between the three ORMDL genes and ORMDL protein conservation among different species suggest that they may have shared functions. We hypothesized that if single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in ORMDL3 alter its gene expression and play a role in asthma, variants in ORMDL1 and ORMDL2 might also be associated with asthma.

Methods

Asthma associations of 44 genotyped SNPs were determined in at least 1303 subjects (651 asthmatics). ORMDL expression was evaluated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from 55 subjects (eight asthmatics) before and after allergen stimulation, and in blood (n = 60, 5 asthmatics). Allele‐specific cis‐effects on ORMDL expression were assessed. Interactions between human ORMDL proteins were determined in living cells.

Results

Sixteen SNPs in all three ORMDLs were associated with asthma (14 in ORMDL3). Baseline expression of ORMDL1 (P = 1.7 × 10−6) and ORMDL2 (P = 4.9 × 10−5) was significantly higher in PBMC from asthmatics, while induction of ORMDLs upon stimulation was stronger in nonasthmatics. Disease‐associated alleles (rs8079416, rs4795405, rs3902920) alter ORMDL3 expression. ORMDL proteins formed homo‐ and heterooligomers and displayed similar patterns of interaction with SERCA2 and SPT1.

Conclusions

Polymorphisms in ORMDL genes are associated with asthma. Asthmatics exhibit increased ORMDL levels, suggesting that ORMDLs contribute to asthma. Formation of heterooligomers and similar interaction patterns with proteins involved in calcium homeostasis and sphingolipid metabolism could indicate shared biological roles of ORMDLs, influencing airway remodeling and hyperresponsiveness.
Identification and characterization of near‐fatal asthma phenotypes by cluster analysis
Authors: Serrano‐Pariente J. , Rodrigo G. , Fiz J. A. , Crespo A. , Plaza V. ,   the High Risk Asthma Research Group
Published: May 2015

Background

Near‐fatal asthma (NFA) is a heterogeneous clinical entity and several profiles of patients have been described according to different clinical, pathophysiological and histological features. However, there are no previous studies that identify in a unbiased way – using statistical methods such as clusters analysis – different phenotypes of NFA. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to identify and to characterize phenotypes of near fatal asthma using a cluster analysis.

Methods

Over a period of 2 years, 33 Spanish hospitals enrolled 179 asthmatics admitted for an episode of NFA. A cluster analysis using two‐steps algorithm was performed from data of 84 of these cases.

Results

The analysis defined three clusters of patients with NFA: cluster 1, the largest, including older patients with clinical and therapeutic criteria of severe asthma; cluster 2, with an high proportion of respiratory arrest (68%), impaired conciousness level (82%) and mechanical ventilation (93%); and cluster 3, which included younger patients, characterized by an insufficient anti‐inflammatory treatment and frequent sensitization to Alternaria alternata and soybean.

Conclusions

These results identify specific asthma phenotypes involved in NFA, confirming in part previous findings observed in studies with a clinical approach. The identification of patients with a specific NFA phenotype could suggest interventions to prevent future severe asthma exacerbations.
Emergency left colonic resections on an acute surgical unit: does subspecialization improve outcomes?
Authors: Gibbons Genevieve , Tan Chuan Jin , Bartolo David C. C. , Filgate Rhys , Makin Greg , Barwood Nigel , Wallace Marina
Published: May 2015

Background

Left‐sided colonic pathologies requiring emergency resection are commonly encountered on an acute surgical unit. Subspecialist colorectal (CR) management of these patients may result in decreased morbidity, mortality and stoma rates. This study is the first of its kind comparing outcomes between CR surgeons and general surgeons on an acute surgical unit.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of 196 consecutive patients who underwent emergency left colonic resection on an acute surgical unit between January 2009 and July 2014. Patients were divided into two groups dependent on whether their surgery was managed by a CR specialist or general surgeon. Primary outcome measures were 30‐day mortality, rate of primary anastomosis and overall stoma rate.

Results

Patients in the two groups were comparable for age, sex, American Society for Anesthesiologists score as well as CR POSSUM scores. Rates of primary anastomosis were significantly higher in the CR group compared with the acute surgical unit group (85.5 versus 28.7%, P ≤ 0.001). Overall stoma rates were significantly lower in the CR group (40.4 versus 88.8%, P = 0.0001). Thirty‐day mortality was similar in both groups. Other secondary markers of morbidity including length of stay, return to theatre, anastomotic leak rate, wound problems and systemic complications had no significant difference between the two groups.

Conclusion

Subspecialist CR management of patients undergoing emergency left‐sided colonic resection on an acute surgical unit is associated with a similar level of morbidity and mortality while safely achieving significantly higher rates of primary anastomosis and lower stoma rates.
Estimation of nitrogen and phosphorus flows in livestock production in Dianchi Lake basin, China
Authors: Anzai Hiroki , Wang Lin , Oishi Kazato , Irbis Chagan , Li Kunzhi , Kumagai Hajime , Inamura Tatsuya , Hirooka Hiroyuki
Published: May 2015

We assessed the nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) flows in intensified livestock production systems by investigating nutrient budgets and cycling in the basin of Dianchi Lake, one of the most eutrophic lakes in China. We conducted field surveys based on feed samplings and interviews of livestock farmers. The N and P in local and external feeds, animal body retentions, animal products and excretions were calculated at the individual level for dairy cattle, fattening pigs, breeding sows, broilers and laying hens. The N and P flows in the total livestock production system in the area were estimated by multiplying the individual N and P budgets by the number of animals. For the dairy and fattening pig productions, N and P supplied from local crops or by‐products accounted for large parts of the inputs. For the other livestock categories, most of the N and P inputs depended on external resources. The N and P outputs through animal manure into the cropland were 287 and 66 kg/ha/year, respectively, which were higher than the N and P inputs into the livestock production systems from the cropland. The N and P loads from manure should be reduced for the establishment of sustainable agricultural production systems.
A spillover‐based theory of credentialism
Authors: Bidner Chris
Published: May 2015

I propose a model in which credentials, such as diplomas, are instrumentally valuable to workers. The model avoids an important criticism of standard job market signalling models by tying a worker's wage to their output. A worker's productivity is influenced by the skills of their co‐workers, where such skills arise from an ability‐augmenting investment that is made prior to matching with co‐workers. Credentials allow workers to demonstrate their investment to the labour market, thereby allowing them to match with high‐skill co‐workers in equilibrium. Despite the positive externality associated with a worker's investment, I show how overinvestment is pervasive in equilibrium.
Attention to Faces Expressing Negative Emotion at 7 Months Predicts Attachment Security at 14 Months
Authors: Peltola Mikko J. , Forssman Linda , Puura Kaija , van IJzendoorn Marinus H. , Leppänen Jukka M.
Published: May 2015

To investigate potential infant‐related antecedents characterizing later attachment security, this study tested whether attention to facial expressions, assessed with an eye‐tracking paradigm at 7 months of age (N = 73), predicted infant–mother attachment in the Strange Situation Procedure at 14 months. Attention to fearful faces at 7 months predicted attachment security, with a smaller attentional bias to fearful expressions associated with insecure attachment. Attachment disorganization in particular was linked to an absence of the age‐typical attentional bias to fear. These data provide the first evidence linking infants' attentional bias to negative facial expressions with attachment formation and suggest reduced sensitivity to facial expressions of negative emotion as a testable trait that could link attachment disorganization with later behavioral outcomes.
Diagnostic accuracy of disorganization of the retinal inner layers in detecting macular capillary non‐perfusion in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Nicholson Luke , Ramu Jayashree , Triantafyllopoulou Ioanna , Patrao Namritha V , Comyn Oliver , Hykin Philip , Sivaprasad Sobha
Published: May 2015

Background

Disorganization of the retinal inner layers (DRIL) on optical coherence tomography (OCT) is thought to represent retinal capillary non‐perfusion (CNP) in eyes with diabetic retinopathy. This study was designed to evaluate the ability of DRIL to accurately predict CNP.

Design

Retrospective masked reliability and diagnostic accuracy study performed in the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK

Samples

Retinal images of patients with diabetic retinopathy

Methods

The OCT images from 90 separate areas of angiographically confirmed perfused and non‐perfused areas of the macula from 37 eyes of 31 patients were anonymized and coded. Two masked graders independently graded these OCT scans for the presence or absence of DRIL to determine the intergrader reliability. The diagnostic accuracy of DRIL in identifying CNP was evaluated from the results obtained.

Main Outcome Measures

Sensitivity and specificity of DRIL in accurately detecting CNP

Results

The intergrader agreement was high with a Cohen's kappa of 0.909. DRIL was present in 84.4% (38/45) of non‐perfused retina and none in perfused retina (0/45). The sensitivity and specificity of DRIL in detecting angiographic evidence of CNP was 84.4% and 100%, respectively. The positive predictive value was 100% and the negative predictive value was 86.5%.

Conclusions

The presence of DRIL is a reliable predictor of areas of macular CNP. However, DRIL is not a universal finding of non‐perfusion, with some cases exhibiting absence of DRIL despite angiographic CNP.
Maintaining the balance: both gain‐ and loss‐of‐function KCNA2 mutants cause epileptic encephalopathy
Authors: Drögemöller B. I.
Published: May 2015

De novo loss‐ or gain‐of‐function mutations in KCNA2 cause epileptic encephalopathy

Syrbe et al. (2015)

Nat Genet 47(4):393–99
Mapping opportunities and challenges for rewilding in Europe
Authors: Ceaușu Silvia , Hofmann Max , Navarro Laetitia M. , Carver Steve , Verburg Peter H. , Pereira Henrique M.
Published: May 2015

Farmland abandonment takes place across the world due to socio‐economic and ecological drivers. In Europe agricultural and environmental policies aim to prevent abandonment and halt ecological succession. Ecological rewilding has been recently proposed as an alternative strategy. We developed a framework to assess opportunities for rewilding across different dimensions of wilderness in Europe. We mapped artificial light, human accessibility based on transport infrastructure, proportion of harvested primary productivity (i.e., ecosystem productivity appropriated by humans through agriculture or forestry), and deviation from potential natural vegetation in areas projected to be abandoned by 2040. At the continental level, the levels of artificial light were low and the deviation from potential natural vegetation was high in areas of abandonment. The relative importance of wilderness metrics differed regionally and was strongly connected to local environmental and socio‐economic contexts. Large areas of projected abandonment were often located in or around Natura 2000 sites. Based on these results, we argue that management should be tailored to restore the aspects of wilderness that are lacking in each region. There are many remaining challenges regarding biodiversity in Europe, but megafauna species are already recovering. To further potentiate large‐scale rewilding, Natura 2000 management would need to incorporate rewilding approaches. Our framework can be applied to assessing rewilding opportunities and challenges in other world regions, and our results could guide redirection of subsidies to manage social‐ecological systems.
Framing the relationship between people and nature in the context of European conservation
Authors: Linnell John D. C. , Kaczensky Petra , Wotschikowsky Ulrich , Lescureux Nicolas , Boitani Luigi
Published: May 2015

A key controversy in conservation is the framing of the relationship between people and nature. The extent to which the realms of nature and human culture are viewed as separate (dualistic view) or integrated is often discussed in the social sciences. To explore how this relationship is represented in the practice of conservation in Europe, we considered examples of cultural landscapes, wildlife (red deer, reindeer, horses), and protected area management. We found little support, for a dualistic worldview, where people and nature are regarded as separate in the traditional practice of conservation in Europe. The borders between nature and culture, wild and domestic, public land and private land, and between protected areas and the wider landscape were blurred and dynamic. The institutionalized (in practice and legislation) view is of an interactive mutualistic system in which humans and nature share the whole landscape. However, more dualistic ideals, such as wilderness and rewilding that are challenging established practices are expanding. In the context of modern day Europe, wilderness conservation and rewilding are not valid for the whole landscape, although it is possible to integrate some areas of low‐intervention management into a wider matrix. A precondition for success is to recognize and plan for a plurality of values concerning the most valid approaches to conservation and to plan for this plurality at the landscape scale.
The role of agri‐environment schemes in conservation and environmental management
Authors: Batáry Péter , Dicks Lynn V. , Kleijn David , Sutherland William J.
Published: May 2015

Over half of the European landscape is under agricultural management and has been for millennia. Many species and ecosystems of conservation concern in Europe depend on agricultural management and are showing ongoing declines. Agri‐environment schemes (AES) are designed partly to address this. They are a major source of nature conservation funding within the European Union (EU) and the highest conservation expenditure in Europe. We reviewed the structure of current AES across Europe. Since a 2003 review questioned the overall effectiveness of AES for biodiversity, there has been a plethora of case studies and meta‐analyses examining their effectiveness. Most syntheses demonstrate general increases in farmland biodiversity in response to AES, with the size of the effect depending on the structure and management of the surrounding landscape. This is important in the light of successive EU enlargement and ongoing reforms of AES. We examined the change in effect size over time by merging the data sets of 3 recent meta‐analyses and found that schemes implemented after revision of the EU's agri‐environmental programs in 2007 were not more effective than schemes implemented before revision. Furthermore, schemes aimed at areas out of production (such as field margins and hedgerows) are more effective at enhancing species richness than those aimed at productive areas (such as arable crops or grasslands). Outstanding research questions include whether AES enhance ecosystem services, whether they are more effective in agriculturally marginal areas than in intensively farmed areas, whether they are more or less cost‐effective for farmland biodiversity than protected areas, and how much their effectiveness is influenced by farmer training and advice? The general lesson from the European experience is that AES can be effective for conserving wildlife on farmland, but they are expensive and need to be carefully designed and targeted.
Sodium Channel Inhibitors Reduce DMPK mRNA and Protein
Authors: Witherspoon Luke , O'Reilly Sean , Hadwen Jeremiah , Tasnim Nafisa , MacKenzie Alex , Farooq Faraz
Published: May 2015

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is caused by an expanded trinucleotide (CTG)n tract in the 3′ untranslated region (UTR) of the dystrophia myotonica protein kinase (DMPK) gene. This results in the aggregation of an expanded mRNA forming toxic intranuclear foci which sequester splicing factors. We believe down‐regulation of DMPK mRNA represents a potential, and as yet unexplored, DM1 therapeutic avenue. Consequently, a computational screen for agents which down‐regulate DMPK mRNA was undertaken, unexpectedly identifying the sodium channel blockers mexiletine, prilocaine, procainamide, and sparteine as effective suppressors of DMPK mRNA. Analysis of DMPK mRNA in C2C12 myoblasts following treatment with these agents revealed a reduction in the mRNA levels. In vivo analysis of CD1 mice also showed DMPK mRNA and protein down‐regulation. The role of DMPK mRNA suppression in the documented efficacy of this class of compounds in DM1 is worthy of further investigation.
Signatures of niche conservatism and niche shift in the North American kudzu (Pueraria montana) invasion
Authors: Callen Steven T. , Miller Allison J.
Published: May 2015

Aim

Recent advances have improved our ability to determine the degree to which the climatic niche of invasive populations resembles (niche conservatism) or differs from (niche shift) that of native progenitors. We compared the climatic niche of kudzu (Pueraria montana), one of the most devastating invasive species in North America, between its native (East Asia) and invasive (United States) ranges.

Location

East Asia and United States.

Methods

To compare kudzu climatic niches, we calculated niche overlap, stability, unfilling (native climates not colonized in the invasive range) and expansion (invasive climates not colonized in the native range) from principal component analysis and performed niche hypothesis tests. Reciprocal ecological niche models (ENMs) examined kudzu's current versus potential distributions. To gain insight into the dynamics of different components of kudzu's niche, we performed these analyses on two climate datasets: one with variables selected by Maxent (Model M) and one with variables chosen a priori based on their putative ecological importance (Model E).

Results

Niche conservatism was indicated by niche similarity tests and high niche stability. Niche shift between native and invasive niches was also observed but varied with variable selection: niche unfilling was detected for Models M (0.622–0.903) and E (0.265–0.577), while expansion was found only for Model M (0.576–0.959). ENMs predicted suitable climatic habitat throughout regions in the western United States where kudzu is currently absent.

Main conclusions

Niche dynamics in the North American kudzu invasion are complex but can be thoroughly explored using unique variable datasets that illuminate different facets of the niche. Results presented here provide troubling evidence that kudzu has not yet occupied all climatic habitats in the United States that resemble its native range and that some invasive populations have expanded into climatically novel areas. Midwestern/western US regions appear to be most at risk for kudzu spread in the near future.
HEAPING‐INDUCED BIAS IN REGRESSION‐DISCONTINUITY DESIGNS
Authors: Barreca Alan I. , Lindo Jason M. , Waddell Glen R.
Published: May 2015

This study uses Monte Carlo simulations to demonstrate that regression‐discontinuity designs arrive at biased estimates when attributes related to outcomes predict heaping in the running variable. After showing that our usual diagnostics may not be well suited to identifying this type of problem, we provide alternatives, and then discuss the usefulness of different approaches to addressing the bias. We then consider these issues in multiple non‐simulated environments. (JEL C21, C14, I12)
Layer‐specific endocannabinoid‐mediated long‐term depression of GABAergic neurotransmission onto principal neurons in mouse visual cortex
Authors: Sun Wenjuan , Wang Laijian , Li Shuo , Tie Xiaoxiu , Jiang Bin
Published: May 2015

Visually induced endocannabinoid‐mediated long‐term depression of GABAergic neurotransmission (iLTD) mediates the maturation of GABAergic release in layer 2/3 of visual cortex. Here we examined whether the maturation of GABAergic transmission in other layers of visual cortex also requires endocannabinoids. The developmental plasticity of GABAergic neurotransmission onto the principal neurons in different layers of mouse visual cortex was examined in cortical slices by whole‐cell recordings of inhibitory postsynaptic currents evoked by presynaptic inhibitory inputs. Theta burst stimulation of GABAergic inputs induced an endocannabinoid‐mediated long‐term depression of GABAergic neurotransmission onto pyramidal cells in layer 2/3 from postnatal day (P)10 to 30 and in layer 5 from P10 to 40, whereas that of GABAergic inputs did not induce iLTD onto star pyramidal neurons in layer 4 at any time postnatally, indicating that this plasticity is laminar‐specific. The developmental loss of iLTD paralleled the maturation of GABAergic inhibition in both layer 2/3 and layer 5. Visual deprivation delayed the developmental loss of iLTD in layers 3 and 5 during a critical period, while 2 days of light exposure eliminated iLTD in both layers. Furthermore, the GABAergic synapses in layers 2/3 and 5 did not normally mature in the type 1 cannabinoid receptor knock‐out mice, whereas those in layer 4 did not require endocannabinoid receptor for maturation. These results suggest that visually induced endocannabinoid‐dependent iLTD mediates the maturation of GABAergic release in extragranular layer rather than in granular layer of mouse visual cortex.
LRIT3 is essential to localize TRPM1 to the dendritic tips of depolarizing bipolar cells and may play a role in cone synapse formation
Authors: Neuillé Marion , Morgans Catherine W. , Cao Yan , Orhan Elise , Michiels Christelle , Sahel José‐Alain , Audo Isabelle , Duvoisin Robert M. , Martemyanov Kirill A. , Zeitz Christina
Published: May 2015

Mutations in LRIT3 lead to complete congenital stationary night blindness (cCSNB). The exact role of LRIT3 in ON‐bipolar cell signaling cascade remains to be elucidated. Recently, we have characterized a novel mouse model lacking Lrit3 [no b‐wave 6, (Lrit3nob6/nob6)], which displays similar abnormalities to patients with cCSNB with LRIT3 mutations. Here we compare the localization of components of the ON‐bipolar cell signaling cascade in wild‐type and Lrit3nob6/nob6 retinal sections by immunofluorescence confocal microscopy. An anti‐LRIT3 antibody was generated. Immunofluorescent staining of LRIT3 in wild‐type mice revealed a specific punctate labeling in the outer plexiform layer (OPL), which was absent in Lrit3nob6/nob6 mice. LRIT3 did not co‐localize with ribeye or calbindin but co‐localized with mGluR6. TRPM1 staining was severely decreased at the dendritic tips of all depolarizing bipolar cells in Lrit3nob6/nob6 mice. mGluR6, GPR179, RGS7, RGS11 and Gβ5 immunofluorescence was absent at the dendritic tips of cone ON‐bipolar cells in Lrit3nob6/nob6 mice, while it was present at the dendritic tips of rod bipolar cells. Furthermore, peanut agglutinin (PNA) labeling was severely reduced in the OPL in Lrit3nob6/nob6 mice. This study confirmed the localization of LRIT3 at the dendritic tips of depolarizing bipolar cells in mouse retina and demonstrated the dependence of TRPM1 localization on the presence of LRIT3. As tested components of the ON‐bipolar cell signaling cascade and PNA revealed disrupted localization, an additional function of LRIT3 in cone synapse formation is suggested. These results point to a possibly different regulation of the mGluR6 signaling cascade between rod and cone ON‐bipolar cells.
Sunitinib–ibuprofen drug interaction affects the pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of sunitinib to brain, liver, and kidney in male and female mice differently
Authors: Lau Christine Li Ling , Chan Sook Tyng , Selvaratanam Manimegahlai , Khoo Hui Wen , Lim Adeline Yi Ling , Modamio Pilar , Mariño Eduardo L. , Segarra Ignacio
Published: May 2015

Tyrosine kinase inhibitor sunitinib (used in GIST, advanced RCC, and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors) undergoes CYP3A4 metabolism and is an ABCB1B and ABCG2 efflux transporters substrate. We assessed the pharmacokinetic interaction with ibuprofen (an NSAID used by patients with cancer) in Balb/c male and female mice. Mice (study group) were coadministered (30 min apart) 30 mg/kg of ibuprofen and 60 mg/kg of sunitinib PO and compared with the control groups, which received sunitinib alone (60 mg/kg, PO). Sunitinib concentration in plasma, brain, kidney, and liver was measured by HPLC as scheduled and noncompartmental pharmacokinetic parameters estimated. In female control mice, sunitinib AUC0→∞ decreased in plasma (P < 0.05), was higher in liver and brain (P < 0.001), and lower in kidney (P < 0.001) vs. male control mice. After ibuprofen coadministration, female mice showed lower AUC0→∞ in plasma (P < 0.01), brain, liver, and kidney (all P < 0.001). However, in male mice, AUC0→∞ remained unchanged in plasma, increased in liver and kidney, and decreased in brain (all P < 0.001). The tissue‐to‐plasma AUC0→∞ ratio was similar between male and female control mice, but changed after ibuprofen coadministration: Male mice showed 1.6‐fold higher liver‐to‐plasma ratio (P < 0.001) while remained unchanged in female mice and in kidney (male and female mice) but decreased 55% in brain (P < 0.05). The tissue‐to‐plasma partial AUC ratio, the drug tissue targeting index, and the tissue‐plasma hysteresis‐like plots also showed sex‐based ibuprofen–sunitinib drug interaction differences. The results illustrate the relevance of this DDI on sunitinib pharmacokinetics and tissue uptake. These may be due to gender‐based P450 and efflux/transporters differences.
Extrapolation Errors in IPOs
Authors: Xiao Ying , Yung Chris
Published: May 2015

We demonstrate that relatively high revenue growth prior to an initial public offering (IPO) is associated with high IPO prices and poor returns. In particular, low‐growth IPO returns, −1% on a three‐year annualized basis compared to −12% (equal‐weighted) or −29% (value‐weighted) for high‐growth new issues. There is no evidence that the performance differentials reflect risk premia. Rather, low‐growth firms’ returns are more stable over time. Finally, while analysts’ forecasts are upwardly biased for all firms, the magnitude of this bias is greatest for firms with rapid pre‐IPO revenue growth. Overall, these results are consistent with the extrapolation errors model suggested by Lakonishok, Shleifer, and Vishny (1994).
Wind‐induced stock variation of the neon flying squid (Ommastrephes bartramii) winter–spring cohort in the subtropical North Pacific Ocean
Authors: Nishikawa Haruka , Toyoda Takahiro , Masuda Shuhei , Ishikawa Yoichi , Sasaki Yuji , Igarashi Hiromichi , Sakai Mitsuo , Seito Masaki , Awaji Toshiyuki
Published: May 2015

Our examination of the neon flying squid (Ommastrephes bartramii) winter–spring cohort catch per unit effort (CPUE, an index of stock) revealed significant positive correlations with the interannual variations of observed chlorophyll‐a (Chl‐a) concentration and autumn–winter mixed layer depth (MLD) in the winter–spring feeding grounds of paralarvae and juveniles (130–170°E, 20–27°N). These correlations suggest the importance of integrated bottom‐up effects by the autumn–winter MLD for the neon flying squid stocks. However, the influence of autumn–winter MLD interannual variation in the forage availability for paralarvae and juveniles, i.e., particulate organic matter and zooplankton, has still been unclear. In this study, we use the lower trophic ecosystem model NEMURO, which uses the physical environmental data from the ocean reanalysis dataset obtained by the four‐dimensional variational (4DVAR) data assimilation method. The model‐based investigation enables us to clarify how the autumn–winter MLD controls the particulate organic matter and zooplankton abundance in the feeding grounds. Further, our investigation of the autumn–winter MLD interannual variation demonstrates that the stronger autumn wind in the feeding grounds develops a deeper mixed layer. Therefore, the deep mixed layer entrains nutrient‐rich water and enhances photosynthesis, which results in good feeding conditions for paralarvae and juveniles. Our results underline that the wind system interannual variation has critical roles on the winter–spring cohort of the neon flying squid stock.
The Battle of Waterloo, 18 June 1815: some geological reflections to mark the bicentenary
Authors: Rose Edward P.F.
Published: May 2015

The Battle of Waterloo was fought nearly 18 km south of Brussels in Belgium, between the forces of the French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte and a coalition army of British, German, Dutch and Belgian troops led by the British Duke of Wellington, joined later in the day by a Prussian army led by Gebhard von Blücher, Prince of Wahlstatt. One of the great battles of history, it precipitated the end of some 23 years of intermittent warfare that had raged at times across much of Europe, and parts of the Mediterranean region, India, Africa and America, to initiate a period of relative peace and stability in Europe that was to last for nearly a century—until the First World War began in 1914.
Geophysical surveys to help map buried igneous intrusions, Snowdonia, North Wales, UK
Authors: Moseley D.P. , Pringle J.K. , Haslam R.B. , Egan S.S. , Rogers S.L. , Gertisser R. , Cassidy N.J. , Stimpson I.G.
Published: May 2015

The geology of the Snowdonia National Park in North Wales comprises a mixture of Lower Palaeozoic shallow marine sediments, acidic igneous rocks and basic intrusions of the Welsh Basin that were subsequently deformed during the Caledonian Orogeny. Thin igneous intrusions are challenging to map due to variable surface exposures, their intrusive origin, structural deformation and burial by glacial sediments. This study used a combination of traditional geological techniques, near‐surface geophysical surveys and remote sensing to detect and map a buried dolerite sheet intrusion. Both simple and mathematical analysis of magnetic anomalies and numerical modelling allowed the dolerite position, depths and target widths to be determined. Results showed that calibrated magnetic surveys can characterize buried igneous bodies in such mountainous environments.
Taking Stock: A Visual Analysis of Gendered Ageing
Authors: Pritchard Katrina , Whiting Rebecca
Published: May 2015

While various forms of imagery have been highlighted as central to processes of social construction, the potential of visual methodologies to generate insight into gendered ageing has yet to be fully exploited. We build on the developing body of visual analyses within work and organization studies to suggest how understandings of gendered ageing are impacted by our consumption of work‐related images, empirically explored here using stock photographs. We examine images of men and women of various ages to unpack the visual construction of gendered ageing within online news media, a critical context within the new economy. Through our own analysis, and our review of participants’ responses to three images, we contribute to the unpacking of culturally produced age‐sensitive subject positions through examination of the interrelationships between gender, age and employment. These combined methodologies offer new insights into ways in which understandings of gendered ageing are both (visually) constructed and interpreted.
A Meta‐Analysis of the Association between Helicobacter pylori Infection and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease from Published Prospective Studies
Authors: Sun Jing , Rangan Pooja , Bhat Srinidhi Subraya , Liu Longjian
Published: May 2015

Background

The association between helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection and coronary heart disease (CHD) has long been debated, and the results from previous meta‐analysis are varied.

Aims

The aim for this study was to identify the association between Hp and CHD using published perspective cohort studies.

Materials and Methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis were performed on studies published from January, 1992 to April, 2014. All studies included used data from prospective cohort studies of CHD events or CHD deaths. Random effect models were applied in all estimations.

Results

H. pylori infection increased the risk of CHD events by 11% (19 studies, n = 22,207, risk ratio (RR) = 1.11, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01–1.22). This effect was greater for studies that had less than 5 years' follow‐up time (RR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.00–1.32). However, this effect was not significant for studies that had follow‐up times ≥10 years (n = 5100, RR = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.87–1.24). Neither Cag‐A seropositive nor Cag‐A seronegative strains of H. pylori were associated with a significantly increased risk of CHD events or deaths based on the current published data.

Conclusion

In conclusion, H. pylori infection increased the risk of CHD events, especially in a patient's early life, but this association was weaker or might be masked by other CHD risk factors in long‐term observations.
Chemical removal of necrotic periodontal ligament on delayed replanted teeth by sodium hypochlorite: morphological analysis and microhardness indentation test of cementum
Authors: Bai J. , Qin M. , Zhao Y. ‐M. , Huang M. ‐W. , Ji A. ‐P.
Published: May 2015

Aim

To compare the efficacy of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) used at different concentrations and working times for removing necrotic periodontal ligament (PDL) from delayed replanted teeth and to observe the effects of NaOCl on surface structure and microhardness of cementum.

Methodology

A total of 88 healthy premolars with a single root extracted for orthodontic purposes were selected and kept dry at room temperature for 1 h. The teeth were divided into 11 groups: group 1 (control): roots were untreated; group 2: necrotic PDL was removed with gauze; groups 3–11: teeth were immersed in NaOCl at different concentrations (1, 2.5 and 5.25%) and for different working times (5, 10 and 15 min). The specimens in each group were inspected separately for cementum integrity and the presence of PDL remnants by histomorphometric analysis, confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Another 14 healthy premolars with roots divided into two pieces were selected for Vickers microhardness indentation tests before and after NaOCl treatment. The data were analysed statistically using Wilcoxon signed‐rank test of two‐related samples (P = 0.05).

Results

In teeth treated with 1% NaOCl for 15 min or 5.25% NaOCl for 5 min, the cementum remained morphologically intact without cracks, and PDL remnants were absent. In the 1% NaOCl for 15 min group, the microstructure of cementum was arranged more regularly, as observed ×8000 magnification by SEM. Teeth in each of the other groups displayed cementum damage and/or the presence of PDL remnants. Microhardness tests revealed that treatment with 1% NaOCl for 15 min or 5.25% NaOCl for 5 min significantly decreased microhardness of root cementum (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Use of either 1% NaOCl for 15 min or 5.25% NaOCl for 5 min was effective at removing necrotic PDL from the delayed replanted teeth whilst having a minimal influence on cementum integrity. However, 1% NaOCl for 15 min was less damaging to cementum.
Enzymatic isolation of viable human odontoblasts
Authors: Cuffaro H. M. , Pääkkönen V. , Tjäderhane L.
Published: May 2015

Aim

To improve an enzymatic method previously used for isolation of rat odontoblasts to isolate viable mature human odontoblasts.

Methodology

Collagenase I, collagenase I/hyaluronidase mixture and hyaluronidase were used to extract mature human odontoblasts from the pulp chamber. Detachment of odontoblasts from dentine was determined with field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and to analyse the significance of differences in tubular diameter, and the t‐test was used. MTT‐reaction was used to analyse cell viability, and nonparametric Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney post hoc tests were used to analyse the data. Immunofluorescent staining of dentine sialoprotein (DSP), aquaporin‐4 (AQP4) and matrix metalloproteinase‐20 (MMP‐20) and quantitative PCR (qPCR) of dentine sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) were used to confirm the odontoblastic nature of the cells.

Results

MTT‐reaction and FESEM demonstrated collagenase I/hyaluronidase resulted in more effective detachment and higher viability than collagenase I alone. Hyaluronidase alone was not able to detach odontoblasts. Immunofluorescence revealed the typical odontoblastic‐morphology with one process, and DSP, AQP4 and MMP‐20 were detected. Quantitative PCR of DSPP confirmed that the isolated cells expressed this odontoblast‐specific gene.

Conclusion

The isolation of viable human odontoblasts was successful. The cells demonstrated morphology typical for odontoblasts and expressed characteristic odontoblast‐type genes and proteins. This method will enable new approaches, such as apoptosis analysis, for studies using fully differentiated odontoblasts.