bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extending the use of ecological models without sacrificing details: a generic and parsimonious meta‐modelling approach
Authors: Marie Guillaume , Simioni Guillaume
Published: August 2014

Difficulties in accounting for the fine scale nature of ecological processes in large‐scale simulations constitute an important issue in ecology. Among existing methods, meta‐modelling, that is creating a statistical emulator of a model, has seen very few applications in ecology. Yet, meta‐modelling methods are well advanced in the field of engineering.

We adapted and applied a meta‐modelling approach to a case study typical of the complexity found in ecosystems. It involved a highly detailed, individual‐based and spatially explicit biophysical model (noTG). The model was parameterized for a multi‐specific, spatially heterogeneous forest. Our goal was to increase its temporal domain of applicability by obtaining a meta‐model of its light interception module many times faster.

The meta‐model was constructed from a series of simulations with noTG, following a latin hypercube design. Several meta‐modelling techniques were compared, with neural networks providing the best results. The meta‐model accurately reproduced the behaviour of noTG across a range of variables and organization levels. It was also 62 times faster.

These result show that meta‐modelling can be a practical tool in ecology and represents a highly powerful way to change the scope of a model while still accounting for fine details.
Adverse effects of perioperative paracetamol, NSAIDs, glucocorticoids, gabapentinoids and their combinations: a topical review
Authors: MATHIESEN O. , WETTERSLEV J. , KONTINEN V. K. , POMMERGAARD H.‐C. , NIKOLAJSEN L. , ROSENBERG J. , HANSEN M. S. , HAMUNEN K. , KJER J. J. , DAHL J. B. ,   Scandinavian Postoperative Pain Alliance (ScaPAlli)
Published: August 2014

Post‐operative pain affects millions of patients worldwide and the post‐operative period has high rates of morbidity and mortality. Some of this morbidity may be related to analgesics. The aim of this review was to provide an update of current knowledge of adverse events (AE) associated with the most common perioperative non‐opioid analgesics: paracetamol, non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), glucocorticoids (GCCs), gabapentinoids and their combinations. The review is based on data from systematic reviews with meta‐analyses of analgesic efficacy and/or adverse effects of perioperative non‐opioid analgesics, and randomised trials and cohort/retrospective studies. Generally, data on AE are sparse and related to the immediate post‐operative period. For paracetamol, the incidence of AEs appears trivial. Data are inconclusive regarding an association of NSAIDs with mortality, cardiovascular events, surgical bleeding and renal impairment. Anastomotic leakage may be associated with NSAID usage. No firm evidence exists for an association of NSAIDs with impaired bone healing. Single‐dose GCCs were not significantly related to increased infection rates or delayed wound healing. Gabapentinoid treatment was associated with increased sedation, dizziness and visual disturbances, but the clinical relevance needs clarification. Importantly, data on AEs of combinations of the above analgesics are sparse and inconclusive. Despite the potential adverse events associated with the most commonly applied non‐opioid analgesics, including their combinations, reporting of such events is sparse and confined to the immediate perioperative period. Knowledge of benefit and harm related to multimodal pain treatment is deficient and needs clarification in large trials with prolonged observation.
Landscape connectivity of the grassland biome in Mpumalanga, South Africa
Authors: Fourie Louise , Rouget Mathieu , Lötter Mervyn
Published: August 2014

The South African grassland biome is one of the most threatened biomes in South Africa. Approximately 45% of the grassland biome area is transformed, degraded or severely invaded by alien plants and the remaining natural areas are highly fragmented. In this fragmented landscape, the connectivity between habitat patches is very important to maintain viable populations. In this study we aimed to quantify connectivity of the grassland biome in Mpumalanga using graph theory in order to identify conservation priorities and to direct conservation efforts. Graph theory‐based connectivity indices have the ability to combine spatially explicit habitat data with species specific dispersal data and can quantify structural and functional connectivity over large landscapes. We used these indices to quantify the overall connectivity of the study area, to determine the influence of abandoned croplands on overall connectivity, and to identify the habitat patches and vegetation types most in need of maintaining overall connectivity. Natural areas were identified using 2008 land cover data for Mpumalanga. Connectivity within the grassland biome of Mpumalanga was analysed for grassland species with dispersal distances ranging from 50 to 1000 m. The grassland habitat patches were mostly well connected, with 99.6% of the total habitat area connected in a single component at a threshold distance of 1000 m. The inclusion of abandoned croplands resulted in a 33% increase in connectivity at a threshold distance of 500 m. The habitat patches most important for maintaining overall connectivity were the large patches of continuous habitat in the upper and lower centres of the study area and the most important vegetation types were the Wakkerstroom Montane Grassland and the Eastern Temperate Freshwater Wetlands. These results can be used to inform management decisions and reserve design to improve and maintain connectivity in this biome.
Characterization of swine leukocyte antigen alleles and haplotypes on a novel miniature pig line, Microminipig
Authors: Ando A. , Imaeda N. , Ohshima S. , Miyamoto A. , Kaneko N. , Takasu M. , Shiina T. , Kulski J. K. , Inoko H. , Kitagawa H.
Published: August 2014

Microminipigs are extremely small‐sized, novel miniature pigs that were recently developed for medical research. The inbred Microminipigs with defined swine leukocyte antigen (SLA) haplotypes are expected to be useful for allo‐ and xenotransplantation studies and also for association analyses between SLA haplotypes and immunological traits. To establish SLA‐defined Microminipig lines, we characterized the polymorphic SLA alleles for three class I (SLA‐1, SLA‐2 and SLA‐3) and two class II (SLA‐DRB1 and SLA‐DQB1) genes of 14 parental Microminipigs using a high‐resolution nucleotide sequence‐based typing method. Eleven class I and II haplotypes, including three recombinant haplotypes, were found in the offspring of the parental Microminipigs. Two class I and class II haplotypes, Hp‐31.0 (SLA‐1*1502–SLA‐3*070102–SLA‐2*1601) and Hp‐0.37 (SLA‐DRB1*0701–SLA‐DQB1*0502), are novel and have not so far been reported in other pig breeds. Crossover regions were defined by the analysis of 22 microsatellite markers within the SLA class III region of three recombinant haplotypes. The SLA allele and haplotype information of Microminipigs in this study will be useful to establish SLA homozygous lines including three recombinants for transplantation and immunological studies.
The economics of quality in the specialty coffee industry: insights from the Cup of Excellence auction programs
Authors: Wilson Adam P. , Wilson Norbert L.W.
Published: August 2014

This study estimates price determinants for specialty green coffee auctions using records from the 2004–2010 Cup of Excellence programs hosted by the Alliance for Coffee Excellence. While some literature on coffee has focused on certifications and sustainability labels, the discussion of price determinants has been limited. This article replicates one of the first publications on price determinants and formulates a new model to more accurately describe the market. We include the necessary additional variables and estimate the model using a truncated maximum likelihood estimation technique. While sensory quality has a strong effect on price, the highest premiums stem from obtaining a top rank compared to other coffees from the same country, and North American buyers are more responsive to sensory quality than buyers in Asian and European markets.
Making space for an international branch campus: Monash University Malaysia
Authors: Sidhu Ravinder , Christie Pam
Published: August 2014

This paper presents findings from an empirical study of an international branch campus established through a partnership between a Malaysian property development conglomerate, the Sunway Group, and Monash University, an Australian university known for its global aspirations. Using Lefebvre's concept of social space we analyse the perceived, conceived and lived spaces that constitute the campus of Monash University Malaysia and its urban setting in the township of Bandar Sunway. Dramatically transformed from a disused mining site and showcased as a ‘progressive’ urban project, the township symbolises the Sunway Group's commercial success and political pragmatism in managing the dynamics of Malaysia's ethnicised political economy. The broader student experience suggests that the configurations of power that shape ethnic and class relations at the scale of the national are reproduced in the composition of the student body, in students' on‐campus interactions and in the rhythms of their everyday lives within the township. By attending to the material, symbolic and imaginary dimensions of one international branch campus, we provide a more nuanced and textured understanding of the globalisation of higher education, highlighting different forms of agency exercised by key actors.
Cities and the lives of university academics
Authors: Yonezawa Akiyoshi , Sato Kaoru , Kawano Ginko
Published: August 2014

Although the relationship between cities and universities is a commonly discussed topic, the so‐called ‘world class universities’ and ‘global cities’ in East Asia do not always fit into one single cosmopolitan model. Focusing on the case of Tokyo and Japan, the authors of this paper examine the mobility patterns, academic and social lives, and gender differences of university academics as representative knowledge workers. Using original survey results, the authors first create a hierarchical structure of academic mobility patterns in Japan, and then argue that Tokyo, as the capital of Japan, is a centre of the intellectual network through its education and training function.
Phase‐1 study of abiraterone acetate in chemotherapy‐naïve Japanese patients with castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Matsubara Nobuaki , Uemura Hiroji , Fukui Iwao , Niwakawa Masashi , Yamaguchi Akito , Iizuka Koho , Akaza Hideyuki
Published: August 2014

Persistent androgen synthesis under castration status in adrenal gland, testes and tumor cells is thought to be one of the major causes of development and progression of castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Abiraterone acetate (AA), the prodrug of abiraterone, which is an inhibitor of androgen synthesis enzymes, was evaluated for pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, preliminary efficacy and safety in Japanese patients with CRPC in a phase‐1, open‐label and dose‐escalation study. Chemotherapy‐naïve Japanese CRPC patients (N = 27) received one of four AA daily doses (250 mg [n = 9], 500 mg [n = 6], 1000 [1 h premeal] mg [n = 6] and 1000 [2 h postmeal] mg [n = 6]) continuously through 28‐day treatment cycles. In the first cycle, AA monotherapy was given on days 1–7 for pharmacokinetics, and AA plus prednisone (5 mg twice daily) from days 8 to 28. Of 27 patients, 9 continued treatment with AA until the data cut‐off date (18 July 2013). Over the evaluated dose range, plasma abiraterone concentrations increased with dose, with median tmax 2–3 h. At each dose level, mean serum corticosterone concentrations increased, while testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate concentrations rapidly decreased following a single AA dose and were further reduced to near the quantification limit on day 8 regardless of the dose. At least 3 patients from each dose‐group experienced ≥50% prostate‐specific antigen reduction, suggesting clinical benefit from AA in Japanese CRPC patients. AA was generally well‐tolerated, and, therefore, the recommended AA dosage regimen in Japanese CRPC patients is 1000 mg oral dose under modified fasting conditions (at least 1 h premeal or 2 h postmeal). This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01186484.
In vivo subcellular imaging of tumors in mouse models using a fluorophore‐conjugated anti‐carcinoembryonic antigen antibody in two‐photon excitation microscopy
Authors: Koga Shigehiro , Oshima Yusuke , Honkura Naoki , Iimura Tadahiro , Kameda Kenji , Sato Koichi , Yoshida Motohira , Yamamoto Yuji , Watanabe Yuji , Hikita Atsuhiko , Imamura Takeshi
Published: August 2014

Recently, there has been growing interest in applying fluorescence imaging techniques to the study of various disease processes and complex biological phenomena in vivo. To apply these methods to clinical settings, several groups have developed protocols for fluorescence imaging using antibodies against tumor markers conjugated to fluorescent substances. Although these probes have been useful in macroscopic imaging, the specificity and sensitivity of these methods must be improved to enable them to detect micro‐lesions in the early phases of cancer, resulting in better treatment outcomes. To establish a sensitive and highly specific imaging method, we used a fluorophore‐conjugated anti‐carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) antibody to perform macroscopic and microscopic in vivo imaging of inoculated cancer cells expressing GFP with or without CEA. Macroscopic imaging by fluorescence zoom microscopy revealed that bio‐conjugation of Alexa Fluor 594 to the anti‐CEA antibody allowed visualization of tumor mass consisting of CEA‐expressing human cancer cells, but the background levels were unacceptably high. In contrast, microscopic imaging using a two‐photon excitation microscope and the same fluorescent antibody resulted in subcellular‐resolution imaging that was more specific and sensitive than conventional imaging using a fluorescence zoom microscope. These results suggest that two‐photon excitation microscopy in conjunction with fluorophore‐conjugated antibodies could be widely adapted to detection of cancer‐specific cell‐surface molecules, both in cancer research and in clinical applications.
Cumulative effects of genetic markers and the detection of advanced colorectal neoplasias by population screening
Authors: Kurlapska A. , Serrano‐Fernández P. , Baszuk P. , Gupta S. , Starzyńska T. , Małecka‐Panas E. , Dabrowski A. , Dębniak T. , Kurzawski G. , Suchy J. , Rogoza‐Mateja W. , Scott R.J. , Lubiński J.
Published: August 2014

Genetic markers associated with colorectal cancer may be used in population screening for the early identification of patients at elevated risk of disease. We genotyped 3059 individuals with no cancer family history for eight markers previously associated with colorectal cancer. After colonoscopy, the genetic profile of cases with advanced colorectal neoplasia (213) was compared with the rest (2846). rs2066847 and rs6983267 were significantly associated with the risk of advanced colorectal neoplasia but with limited effect on their own [odds ratio (OR) 1.59; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02–2.41; p = 0.033 and OR 1.45; 95% CI 1.02–2.12; p = 0.044, respectively]. Cumulative effects, in contrast, were associated with high risk: the combination of rs2066847, rs6983267, rs4779584, rs3802842 and rs4939827 minimized the number of markers considered, while maximizing the relative size of the carrier group and the risk associated to it, for example, for at least two cumulated risk markers, OR is 2.57 (95% CI 1.50–4.71; corrected p‐value 0.0079) and for three or more, OR is 3.57 (95% CI 1.91–6.96; corrected p‐value 0.00074). The identification of cumulative models of – otherwise – low‐risk markers could be valuable in defining risk groups, within an otherwise low‐risk population (no cancer family history).
Taxonomy in the electronic age and an e‐monograph of the papaya family (Caricaceae) as an example
Authors: Antunes Carvalho Fernanda , Filer Denis , Renner Susanne S.
Published: August 2014

The need for taxonomists to take full advantage of biodiversity informatics has been clear for at least 10 years. Significant progress has been made in providing access to taxonomic resources online, including images of specimens (especially types), original species descriptions, and georeferenced collection data. However, in spite of persuasive calls for e‐monography, there are few, if any, completed project, even though monographic research is the only mechanism for reducing synonymous names, which are estimated to comprise 50% of all published names. Caricaceae is an economically important family of flowering plants from Africa and the Neotropics, best known for the fruit crop papaya. There is a large amount of information on the family, especially on chemistry, crop improvement, genomics, and the sex chromosomes of papaya, but up‐to‐date information on the 230 names and which species they might belong to was not available. A dynamically updated e‐monograph of the Caricaceae now brings together all information on this family, including keys, species descriptions, and specimen data relating the 230 names to 34 species and one hybrid. This may be the first taxonomic monograph of a plant family completely published online. The curated information will be continuously updated to improve the monograph's comprehensiveness and utility.
Airway pH monitoring in patients with suspected obstructive sleep apnoea using the Dx‐pH oropharyngeal probe: preliminary report of a prospective cohort study
Authors: Wang C.‐C. , Lien H.‐C. , De Virgilio A. , Huang W.‐C. , Wu M.‐F. , Liu S.‐A. , Wang C.‐P. , Wu S.‐H. , Liang K.‐L. , Jiang R.‐S.
Published: August 2014

Objectives

To investigate the laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) episodes and pH values in patients with suspected obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) using the Dx‐pH oropharyngeal probe.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary medical centre.

Participants

Forty patients with complaint of snoring or suspected OSA were prospectively enrolled to receive full nocturnal polysomnography (PSG). The patients were divided into 2 groups: a simple snorers group if the Respiratory Disturbance Index (RDI) was < 5 and an OSA group if the RDI was ≥ 5.

Main outcome measures

The patients simultaneously received Dx‐pH oropharyngeal probe monitoring for 12 h from about 6 pm to 6 am of the next day. The number of LPR events was recorded if the nadir of rapid pH drops was below pH 5.0 and 5.5. The difference of LPR events between the two groups and the difference of LPR events between awake and sleep periods in each group were analysed, respectively.

Results

There were 18 (45%) patients diagnosed as OSA with a mean RDI of 28.7, and 22 patients (55%) diagnosed as simple snorers. Between 2 groups, there were no significant differences in the LPR events and pH values during the awake period, sleep period or overall recording period. Comparison of the LPR events and minimum pH values between the awake period and the sleep period revealed there were no significant differences in either group.

Conclusion

Using the new sensitive Dx‐pH oropharyngeal probe with PSG, we found that OSA does not correlate with a higher incidence of LPR episodes.
Electrospun P34HB fibres: a scaffold for tissue engineering
Authors: Fu N. , Deng S. , Fu Y. , Li G. , Cun X. , Hao L. , Wei X. , Cai X. , Peng Q. , Lin Y.
Published: August 2014

Objectives

Amongst the fourth generation of PHAs is bio‐plasticpoly3‐hydroxybutyrate4‐hydroxybutyrate (P34HB); it is thus appropriate to perform novel research on its uses and applications. The main objective of this study was to determine whether electrospun P34HB fibres would accommodate viability, growth and differentiation of mouse adipose‐derived stem cells (mASCs).

Materials and methods

In the present study, we looked at P34HB in two forms, electrospun P34HB fibres and P34HB film. Morphology of electrospun P34HB fibres and P34HB film were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, fluorescence microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy, after cell seeding. Cell adhesion, proliferation and cytotoxicity tests were conducted on both by MTT and CCK‐8 assays, respectively. After being cultured with osteogenic induction, expression of adipogenic genes Runx2, OPN and OCN, were examined by real‐time PCR.

Results

By scanning electron microscopy, light microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy, we observed that the mASCs grew well associated with the P34HB materials. After MTT and CCK‐8 assay, we concluded that P34HB would, indeed, be a material suitable for further cell adhesion and proliferation studies. More importantly, we found that the P34HB matrices promoted expression of Runx2, OPN and OCN with osteogenic induction.

Conclusions

In this investigation, we can confirm that the electrospun P34HB fibres accommodated survival, proliferation and differentiation of mASCs, and we have been able to draw the conclusion that fibre scaffolds produced by the electrospinning process are promising for application of bone tissue engineering.
Uric acid and clinical correlates of endothelial function in kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Dahle Dag Olav , Jenssen Trond , Holdaas Hallvard , Åsberg Anders , Soveri Inga , Holme Ingar , Mjøen Geir , Eide Ivar A. , Pihlstrøm Hege , Dörje Christina , Halden Thea A. S. , Hartmann Anders
Published: August 2014

Uric acid is associated with increased mortality in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), but it is uncertain if this involves endothelial dysfunction. We hypothesized, first, that there was an association between uric acid and endothelial function, and second, that there were associations between endothelial function and cardiac and mortality risk scores.

Methods

One hundred and fifty‐two patients were examined 10 wk after kidney transplantation by two measures of endothelial function, the brachial artery flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD) expressed as percent dilatation (FMD%), and fingertip peripheral arterial tone (PAT) expressed as log‐reactive hyperemia index (LnRHI). Risk scores were calculated from a recently validated formula. Other clinical correlates of endothelial function were described in stepwise linear regression models.

Results

Uric acid was associated negatively with FMD% in an age‐ and gender‐adjusted model, while not in the multivariable model. No association was shown between uric acid and LnRHI. FMD% was associated negatively with risk scores in both crude and age‐ and gender‐adjusted models (p < 0.01). LnRHI was associated negatively with risk scores in the latter model only (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Uric acid was neither associated with FMD% nor LnRHI in KTRs. There were significant associations between endothelial function indices and cardiac and mortality risk scores.
Propofol versus traditional sedative agents for endoscopic submucosal dissection
Authors: Nishizawa Toshihiro , Suzuki Hidekazu , Matsuzaki Juntaro , Kanai Takanori , Yahagi Naohisa
Published: August 2014

Background and Aim

Propofol has been suggested to be superior to benzodiazepines when used as a sedative agent for endoscopic examination. The aim of the present study was to systematically evaluate the safety and efficacy of propofol sedation for endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD).

Methods

PubMed, the Cochrane library, and the Igaku‐Chuo‐Zasshi database were searched in order to identify randomized trials eligible for inclusion in the systematic review. Data from the eligible studies were combined to calculate pooled odds ratios (OR) of developing restlessness, full awakening at 1 h post‐ESD, hypoxia, and hypotension.

Results

We identified three randomized trials (298 patients) from the database search. Compared with traditional sedative agents, the pooled OR of restlessness and full awakening at 1 h post‐ESD with propofol sedation were 0.41 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.21–0.81) and 8.59 (95% CI: 4.29–17.2), respectively, without significant heterogeneity. Compared with traditional sedative agents, the pooled OR of hypoxia and hypotension with propofol sedation were 1.13 (95% CI: 0.58–2.21) and 0.92 (95% CI: 0.25–3.41), respectively, indicating no significant differences between the groups.

Conclusion

Propofol sedation during ESD is more effective as compared with traditional sedative agent. The risk of complications is similar.
Endoscopic approaches for the diagnosis of autoimmune pancreatitis
Authors: Kanno Atsushi , Masamune Atsushi , Shimosegawa Tooru
Published: August 2014

Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is characterized by diffuse pancreatic enlargement and irregular narrowing of the main pancreatic duct (MPD). Immunoglobulin (Ig)G4‐related sclerosing cholangitis (IgG4‐SC) associated with AIP frequently appears as a bile duct stricture. Therefore, it is important to differentiate AIP and IgG4‐SC from pancreatic cancer and cholangiocarcinoma or primary sclerosing cholangitis, respectively. Endoscopy plays a central role in the diagnosis of AIP and IgG4‐SC because it provides imaging of the MPD and bile duct strictures as well as the ability to obtain tissue samples for histological evaluations. Diffuse irregular narrowing of MPD on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is rather specific to AIP, but localized narrowing of the MPD is often difficult to differentiate from MPD stenosis caused by pancreatic cancer. A long stricture (>1/3 the length of the MPD) and lack of upstream dilatation from the stricture (<5 mm) might be key features of AIP on ERCP. Some cholangiographic features, such as segmental strictures, stric tures of the lower bile duct, and long strictures with prestenotic dilatation, are more common in IgG4‐SC than in cholangiocarcinoma. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) reveals diffuse hypoechoic pancreatic enlargement, sometimes with hypoechoic inclusions, in patients with AIP. In addition, EUS‐elastography and contrast‐enhanced harmonic EUS have been developed with promising results. The usefulness of EUS‐guided fine‐needle aspiration has been increasingly recognized for obtaining adequate tissue samples for the histological diagnosis of AIP. Further improvement of endoscopic procedures and devices will contribute to more accurate diagnosis of AIP and IgG4‐SC.
Endoscopic balloon dilatation for pharyngo‐upper esophageal stricture after treatment of head and neck cancer
Authors: Maejima Ryuhei , Iijima Katsunori , Koike Tomoyuki , Ara Nobuyuki , Uno Kaname , Hatta Waku , Ogawa Takenori , Watanabe Ken‐ichi , Katori Yukio , Shimosegawa Tooru
Published: August 2014

Background and Aim

Dysphagia caused by pharyngo‐upper esophageal stricture is a complication of treatment for head and neck cancer. Endoscopic balloon dilation (EBD) is in widespread use as an effective and safe treatment for stricture in many areas of the gastrointestinal tract. In the present study, we investigated the efficacy and safety of EBD for pharyngo‐upper esophageal strictures that developed after treatment for head and neck cancer.

Methods

From January 2010 to December 2013, the medical records and endoscopic findings of 19 consecutive patients with pharyngo‐upper esophageal strictures occurring after surgery and/or chemoradiotherapy for head and neck cancer were retrospectively examined.

Results

Mean number of EBD sessions per patient was 6.6 (1–30), and mean maximum diameter of dilation was 15.8 (11–20) mm. Technical success was achieved in 16 of 19 (84.2%) patients, and only two major complications (bleeding and pha ryngeal edema) occurred in a total of 125 dilatation sessions (1.6%). Regarding the influence of chemoradiotherapy on the outcome of EBD, patients who had undergone chemoradiotherapy plus surgery experienced significantly more restenosis during the follow‐up period compared to those who had undergone surgery alone (50% vs 0%, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

This retrospective analysis demonstrated the efficacy and safety of exclusive EBD for pharyngo‐upper esophageal strictures occurring after treatment for head and neck cancer, indicating that the therapeutic application of EBD could be extended to such strictures. Patients who underwent chemoradiotherapy and surgery experienced more restenosis; hence, such patients should be carefully followed up after EBD treatment.
Prevalence of non‐polypoid colorectal neoplasms in southernBrazil
Authors: dos Santos Carlos Eduardo Oliveira , Malaman Daniele , Mönkemüller Klaus , dos Santos Carvalho Tiago , Lopes César Vivian , Pereira‐Lima Júlio Carlos
Published: August 2014

Background and Aim

Several studies suggest that non‐polypoid lesions (NPL) show higher aggressiveness than polypoid lesions, particularly depressed lesions. The present study aimed to assess the prevalence ofNPLand the presence of advanced histology in aBrazilian population.

Methods

Two thousand and sixty‐seven superficial neoplastic lesions diagnosed in 1135 patients were analyzed. Lesions were classified as polypoid and non‐polypoid (flat and depressed) types, and evaluated for site, size, and histology (adenoma with grade of dysplasia, or early cancer).

Results

Prevalence ofNPLwas 46.5%.NPLpredominated in the right colon (62.9%), whereas polypoid lesions were detected mainly in the left colon (53.2%) (P < 0.001).NPLhad a 34% higher probability of occurring in the right colon than polypoid lesions (P < 0.001).NPLwere smaller than polypoid lesions (P = 0.03). There were 208 lesions >10 mm, of which 40 (19.2%) had advanced histology: 13% (18/138) of polypoid lesions; 27.3% (18/66) of flat lesions; and 100% (4/4) of depressed lesions (P < 0.001). Among 1859 neoplasms ≤10 mm, only 18 (1%) had advanced histology, and 15 of them were depressed lesions (P < 0.001). Advanced histology was more commonly detected inNPLthan in polypoid lesions (P = 0.007), with significant difference in size (P < 0.001).NPLshowed more advanced histology than polypoid lesions (OR2.06;P = 0.01), especially depressed lesions (OR36.35;P < 0.001). Among all neoplasms, the prevalence of depressed lesions was 2.2%.

Conclusion

NPLshowed high prevalence and higher aggressiveness than polypoid lesions, especially the depressed type.
Examining gender difference in adult‐onset psychosis in Hong Kong
Authors: Hui Christy L.‐M. , Leung Chung‐Ming , Chang Wing‐Chung , Chan Sherry K.‐W. , Lee Edwin H.‐M. , Chen Eric Y.‐H.
Published: August 2014

Aim

Gender‐specific treatment strategies for psychosis have been suggested in recent years. Data on gender difference were largely consistent regarding premorbid functioning, age of onset and negative symptoms; however, results regarding neurocognitive function and duration of untreated psychosis were mixed and inconclusive. In this study, we aimed at a thorough examination on the gender differences in 360 Chinese patients with first‐episode psychosis in Hong Kong.

Methods

From June 2009 to August 2011, participants were consecutively recruited from a population‐based territory‐wide study of early psychosis targeting first‐episode psychosis in Hong Kong. Comprehensive data on basic demographics, premorbid functioning and schizoid and schizotypal traits, clinical, functioning, medication side effects and a battery of neurocognitive measures were collected upon entry into the service.

Results

In 360 patients with first‐episode psychosis aged between 26 and 55 years, 43.6% (n = 157) were male and 56.4% (n = 203) were female. Males had poorer premorbid functioning and adjustment, earlier age of onset, more negative symptoms and poorer functioning in terms of work productivity, independent living and immediate social network relationships at presentation of first‐episode psychosis. Interestingly, our data indicate that males tend to be more educated, and also characterized by higher IQ, better neurocognitive performance on visual domain compared with females. Duration of untreated psychosis was not different between the two genders.

Conclusion

Data from this homogeneous cohort of Chinese populations enabled tailored and culturally sensitive recommendation on gender‐specific treatment strategies, hence improving patients' care and facilitate better diagnostic and interventional decisions for patients with psychosis.
Rhesus Macaques (Macaca mulatta) Use Posture to Assess Level of Threat From Snakes
Authors: Etting Stephanie F. , Isbell Lynne A.
Published: August 2014

Once prey animals have detected predators, they must make decisions about how to respond based on a cost‐benefit analysis of their risk level. The threat sensitivity hypothesis predicts that prey animals match their response to the level of risk, with high‐risk predator encounters eliciting stronger evasive responses than low‐risk encounters. Primates are known prey of snakes, yet they vary their responses toward snakes. We predicted that primates match their response to the threat level from snakes by assessing posture, with striking postures indicating greater risk than coiled postures and coiled postures indicating greater risk than extended sinusoidal postures. We tested this prediction in a series of experimental trials in which captive rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) were exposed to snake models in those postures. Results supported the predictions: macaques responded more strongly to a snake model in a striking posture than in a coiled posture and more to a snake model in a coiled posture than to an extended sinusoidal snake model. We also examined responses of macaques to a partially exposed snake model to mimic the condition of incomplete information, as snakes are often occluded by vegetation. The occluded snake model evoked a response comparable to that of the striking snake. These findings support the threat sensitivity hypothesis. Rhesus macaques use the posture of snakes as a cue in threat assessment, responding more intensely as threat increases, and they also behave as if risk is elevated when their information about snakes is incomplete.
Multifactor Models and their Consistency with the ICAPM: Evidence from the European Stock Market
Authors: Lutzenberger Fabian T.
Published: August 2014

This paper conducts a European investigation of eight multifactor models that have been previously tested using US data. Many results confirm the US evidence: Most of the eight multifactor models investigated do a good job explaining the cross‐section of our testing portfolios, but most models are not justifiable by the Intertemporal CAPM (ICAPM). Carhart's four‐factor model shows the best empirical performance and consistency with the ICAPM. Nevertheless, some results counter the US evidence: Fama and French's three‐factor model is inconsistent with the ICAPM and the models of Hahn and Lee (2006) and Koijen et al. (2010) show low explanatory power.
Occurrence of Treponema DNA in equine hoof canker and normal hoof tissue
Authors: Sykora S. , Brandt S.
Published: August 2014

Reasons for performing study

Equine hoof canker is a chronic pododermatitis of still unknown aetiology. Recent findings reported for 3 canker‐bearing individuals are suggestive for Treponema spp. having a role in disease pathogenesis.

Objectives

Based on this hypothesised association, we assessed a larger number of DNA samples from hooves with canker and normal hooves for the presence of treponemal DNA.

Study design

Retrospective survey of archived material.

Methods

The study involved 71 archival, PCR‐compatible DNA extractions purified from 59 canker samples obtained from 26 equine cases and from 12 hoof biopsies taken from 9 canker‐free control horses. Presence of treponemal DNA was assessed by qualitative PCR using 4 different primer pairs recognising in sum a broad range of Treponema ssp. Obtained amplification products were identified by bidirectional sequencing and BLAST alignment.

Results

Treponemal DNA was detected in 37 of 59 canker DNA samples from 19 of 26 cases and in 9 of 12 hoof DNA samples from 7 of 9 healthy individuals. Canine oral Treponema sp. and Treponema medium ssp. bovis were the most frequently detected treponemal sequences in hoof canker, while control tissues were mainly shown to harbour Treponema refringens‐like or canine oral Treponema‐like DNA. All control samples tested negative for T. medium ssp. bovis DNA.

Conclusions

Treponema DNA was detectable in the majority of hoof canker and control samples. The sample groups differed to some extent regarding identified Treponema phylotypes; however, this finding may be explained by the methodology used. Treponemes that are highly similar to bovine digital dermatitis treponemes are present in canker lesions. However, further work is needed to clarify the specific contribution of the identified Treponema phylotypes to the pathogenesis of disease.
Body size evolution in Titanosauriformes (Sauropoda, Macronaria)
Authors: de Souza L. M. , Santucci R. M.
Published: August 2014

Titanosauriformes is a conspicuous and diverse group of sauropod dinosaurs that inhabited almost all land masses during Cretaceous times. Besides the diversity of forms, the clade comprises one of the largest land animals found so far, Argentinosaurus, as well as some of the smallest sauropods known to date, Europasaurus and Magyarosaurus. They are therefore good candidates for studies on body size trends such as the Cope's rule, the tendency towards an increase in body size in an evolutionary lineage. We used statistical methods to assess body size changes under both phylogenetic and nonphylogenetic approaches to identify body size trends in Titanosauriformes. Femoral lengths were collected (or estimated from humeral length) from 46 titanosauriform species and used as a proxy for body size. Our findings show that there is no increase or decrease in titanosauriform body size with age along the Cretaceous and that negative changes in body size are more common than positive ones (although not statistically significant) for most of the titanosauriform subclades (e.g. Saltasaridae, Lithostrotia, Titanosauria and Somphospondyli). Therefore, Cope's rule is not supported in titanosauriform evolution. Finally, we also found a trend towards a decrease of titanosauriform mean body size coupled with an increase in body size standard deviation, both supporting an increase in body size variation towards the end of Cretaceous.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci for the blackstripe topminnow Fundulus notatus and their variability in two closely related species
Authors: Feldheim K. A. , Kreiser B. R. , Schmidt B. , Duvernell D. D. , Schaefer J. F.
Published: August 2014

A total of 17 polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated from the blackstripe topminnow Fundulus notatus. In a sample of 29 individuals, these loci were found to possess two to 19 alleles with expected heterozygosity values ranging from 0·212 to 0·919 and all but one of the loci conformed to Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium expectations. Many of these loci were polymorphic in the closely related species Fundulus olivaceus and Fundulus euryzonus providing a set of markers that should prove useful in future ecological and evolutionary studies of members of this species complex.
The effect of spine postures on the hydrodynamic drag in Epinephelus ongus larvae
Authors: Kawabata Y. , Nishihara G. N. , Yamaguchi T. , Takebe T. , Teruya K. , Sato T. , Soyano K.
Published: August 2014

Laboratory behavioural observation and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis were conducted to examine whether the movement of the elongated dorsal and pelvic spines changed the hydrodynamic drag in white‐streaked grouper Epinephelus ongus larvae. The behavioural observation in the tank revealed that the larvae extended the dorsal and pelvic spines during passive transport and retracted during swimming; the angles of the dorsal and pelvic spines in relation to the anteroposterior axis were larger during the passive transport (mean ± s.d. = 28·84 ± 14·27 and 20·35 ± 15·05°) than those during the swimming (mean ± s.d. = 2·59 ± 5·55 and 0·32 ± 6·49°). The CFD analysis indicated that the relative hydrodynamic drag acting on the larvae was approximately 1·25 times higher when the spines were extended (passive transport) than when the spines were retracted (swimming), suggesting that the E. ongus larvae have an ability to adjust their hydrodynamic drag depending on the behavioural context.
Amyloid associated with neoplasia in two captive tricolour sharkminnows Balantiocheilus melanopterus Bleeker
Authors: Russell S , Tubbs L , McLelland D J , LePage V , Young K M , Huber P , Lumsden J S
Published: August 2014

Amyloid associated with pancreatic adenocarcinoma was discovered in two captive adult tricolour sharkminnows Balantiocheilus melanopterus Bleeker found dead in a freshwater display. Enlarged abdomens expanded by bloody ascitic fluid and grossly visible masses of abnormal tissue were present surrounding sections of the stomach and intestine. Histologically, the masses were composed of areas of well‐organized exocrine pancreatic acini interspersed with cords of poorly differentiated, spindle‐shaped cells that compressed and effaced normal parenchyma. These cells possessed small numbers of cytoplasmic zymogen granules; the exocrine nature of these cells was confirmed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Fibrovascular connective tissue of the hepatopancreas and mesenteries was expanded by lightly eosinophilic, hyaline, homogeneous acellular material. Similar material greatly expanded the tunica media of large blood vessels in the hepatopancreas. After staining with Congo red or thioflavin T, this material exhibited red–green dichroism under polarized light or bright green fluorescence under ultraviolet light (255 nm), respectively. The non‐branching fibrils, of indeterminate length, had an approximate diameter of 10–20 nm using TEM. Although exocrine pancreatic neoplasia is relatively common in fish, the presence of amyloid is not. To our current knowledge, the latter has not yet been described in association with a neoplastic lesion in fish.
Adherence to diet and fluid restriction of individuals on hemodialysis treatment and affecting factors in Turkey
Authors: Efe Dilek , Kocaöz Semra
Published: August 2014

Aim

This study was conducted to determine adherence to diet and fluid restriction in hemodialysis‐treated individuals and the affecting factors in Turkey.

Methods

This descriptive study was conducted between 15 October 2010 and 15 January 2011 in subjects who voluntarily agreed to participate in the study from three dialysis centers in a city located in the Central Anatolia Region of Turkey. One hundred and twenty‐one individuals treated with hemodialysis made up the study sample. The data were collected using a questionnaire consisting of 41 questions and the Dialysis Diet and Fluid Non‐adherence Questionnaire. The data were evaluated with percentage, median, Mann–Whitney U‐test, Kruskal–Wallis test, Student's t‐test in independent samples and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient.

Results

The authors found that 98.3% of the individuals experienced non‐adherence to diet and 95.0% with fluid restriction. The authors found a weak and negative relationship between calcium levels and non‐adherence to fluid restriction, a weak relationship between phosphorus levels and diet non‐adherence frequency and degree and the fluid non‐adherence frequency scores, and a moderate positive relationship between phosphorus levels and fluid restriction non‐adherence degree scores (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Based on these results, regular training and information regarding diet and fluid restriction must be provided to individuals aged 21–35 years with no one in the family to help with their care, those who consumed salted food, or had interdialytic weight gain of 4.5 kg or more.
Mosaic activity patterns and their relation to perceptual similarity: open discussions on the molecular basis and circuitry of odor recognition
Authors: Locatelli Fernando F. , Rela Lorena
Published: August 2014

Enormous advances have been made in the recent years in regard to the mechanisms and neural circuits by which odors are sensed and perceived. Part of this understanding has been gained from parallel studies in insects and rodents that show striking similarity in the mechanisms they use to sense, encode, and perceive odors. In this review, we provide a short introduction to the functioning of olfactory systems from transduction of odorant stimuli into electrical signals in sensory neurons to the anatomical and functional organization of the networks involved in neural representation of odors in the central nervous system. We make emphasis on the functional and anatomical architecture of the first synaptic relay of the olfactory circuit, the olfactory bulb in vertebrates and the antennal lobe in insects. We discuss how the exquisite and conserved architecture of this structure is established and how different odors are encoded in mosaic activity patterns. Finally, we discuss the validity of methods used to compare activation patterns in relation to perceptual similarity.

image

In this Review we provide an introduction to the functioning of olfactory systems from transduction of stimuli into electrical signals to the organization of the networks involved in neural representation of odors. We discuss how different odors are encoded in mosaic activity patterns and the validity of methods used to compare activation patterns in relation to perceptual similarity.
Reversible Cerebral Periventricular White Matter Changes with Corpus Callosum Involvement in Acute Toluene‐Poisoning
Authors: Lin Chih‐Ming , Liu Chi‐Kuang
Published: August 2014

Substance poisoning, such as toluene intoxication, has seldom been reported in the relevant literature. The documented cerebral neuroimaging has mostly described reversible symmetrical white matter changes in both the cerebral and cerebellar hemispheres. This paper presents 2 patients with toluene poisoning, whose brain magnetic resonance imaging studies showed a similar picture that included extra involvement over the corpus callosum; however, such corpus callosum involvement has never been mentioned and is quite rare in the literature. We discussed the underlying neuropathological pathways in this article. Hopefully, these cases will provide first‐line clinicians with some valuable information with regard to toluene intoxication and clinical neuroimaging presentations.
Relationship Between Frequency and Intensity of Cigarette Smoking and TTFC/C Among Students of the GYTS in Select Countries, 2007‐2009
Authors: Lam Eugene , Giovino Gary A. , Shin Mikyong , Lee Kyung A. , Rolle Italia , Asma Samira
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND

This study assessed the construct validity of a measure of nicotine dependence that was used in the Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS).

METHODS

Using 2007‐2009 data from the GYTS, subjects from 6 countries were used to assess current smokers' odds of reporting time to first cigarette or craving positive (TTFC/C+) by the number of cigarette smoking days per month (DPM) and the number of cigarettes smoked per day (CPD).

RESULTS

The percentage of GYTS smokers who reported TTFC/C+ ranged from 58.0% to 69.7%. Compared with students who smoked on 1‐2 DPM, those who smoked on 3‐9 DPM had 3 times the adjusted odds of reporting TTFC/C+. The adjusted odds of reporting TTFC/C+ were 3 to 7 times higher among those who smoked 10‐29 DPM and 6 to 20 times higher among daily smokers. Similarly, the adjusted odds of TTFC/C+ were 3‐6 times higher among those who smoked 2‐5 CPD and 6 to 20 times higher among those who smoked >6 CPD, compared to those who smoked <1 CPD.

CONCLUSION

Associations of TTFC/C+ prevalence with both frequency and intensity of cigarette smoking provide a construct validation of the GYTS question used to assess respondents' TTFC/C status.