bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surveillance for microbes and range expansion in house sparrows
Authors: Martin Lynn B. , Coon Courtney A. C. , Liebl Andrea L. , Schrey Aaron W.
Published: November 2013

Interactions between hosts and parasites influence the success of host introductions and range expansions post-introduction. However, the physiological mechanisms mediating these outcomes are little known. In some vertebrates, variation in the regulation of inflammation has been implicated, perhaps because inflammation imparts excessive costs, including high resource demands and collateral damage upon encounter with novel parasites. Here, we tested the hypothesis that variation in the regulation of inflammation contributed to the spread of house sparrows (
Passer domesticus
) across Kenya, one of the world's most recent invasions of this species. Specifically, we asked whether inflammatory gene expression declines with population age (i.e. distance from Mombasa (dfM), the site of introduction around 1950). We compared expression of two microbe surveillance molecules (Toll-like receptors, TLRs-2 and 4) and a proinflammatory cytokine (interleukin-6, IL-6) before and after an injection of an immunogenic component of Gram-negative bacteria (lipopolysaccharide, LPS) among six sparrow populations. We then used a best-subset model selection approach to determine whether population age (dfM) or other factors (e.g. malaria or coccidian infection, sparrow density or genetic group membership) best-explained gene expression. For baseline expression of
TLR-2
and
TLR-4
, population age tended to be the best predictor with expression decreasing with population age, although other factors were also important. Induced expression of
TLRs
was affected by LPS treatment alone. For induced
IL-6
, only LPS treatment reliably predicted expression; baseline expression was not explained by any factor. These data suggest that changes in microbe surveillance, more so than downstream control of inflammation via cytokines, might have been important to the house sparrow invasion of Kenya.
Adult neurogenesis in the mammalian hippocampus: Why the dentate gyrus?
Authors: Drew Liam J. , Fusi Stefano , Hen René
Published: November 2013

In the adult mammalian brain, newly generated neurons are continuously incorporated into two networks: interneurons born in the subventricular zone migrate to the olfactory bulb, whereas the dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampus integrates locally born principal neurons. That the rest of the mammalian brain loses significant neurogenic capacity after the perinatal period suggests that unique aspects of the structure and function of DG and olfactory bulb circuits allow them to benefit from the adult generation of neurons. In this review, we consider the distinctive features of the DG that may account for it being able to profit from this singular form of neural plasticity. Approaches to the problem of neurogenesis are grouped as “bottom-up,” where the phenotype of adult-born granule cells is contrasted to that of mature developmentally born granule cells, and “top-down,” where the impact of altering the amount of neurogenesis on behavior is examined. We end by considering the primary implications of these two approaches and future directions.
Acute stressor effects on goal-directed action in rats
Authors: Braun Stephanie , Hauber Wolfgang
Published: November 2013

Here we examined effects of acute stressors that involve either systemic coadministration of corticosterone/yohimbine (3 mg/kg each) to increase glucocorticoid/noradrenaline activity (denoted as “pharmacological” stressor) or one or several distinct restraint stressors (denoted as “single” vs. “multiple” stressor) on performance of goal-directed actions. Rats were trained over 11 d to perform two instrumental actions, one for food pellets the other for sucrose solution, followed by two consecutive tests days. On each test day, rats were first sated in a counterbalanced manner on one of the two outcomes by prefeeding (selective outcome devaluation), then subjected to an acute stressor, and tested afterward in a two-lever choice task in extinction to assess whether instrumental performance is goal-directed, i.e., sensitive to changes in outcome value. Like in control rats, in rats subjected to the pharmacological or single restraint stressor prior to the choice test, performance of instrumental action was goal-directed, i.e., sensitive to outcome devaluation. By contrast, in rats exposed to the multiple stressor prior to the choice test, performance of instrumental action was habitual, i.e., insensitive to outcome devaluation. Pretreatment with diazepam (1 and 2 mg/kg) did not alleviate (or only marginally) this multiple stressor-induced effect. Thus, an intense acute stressor can render performance of previously acquired instrumental action habitual, possibly due to a compromised retrieval of encoded relationships between actions and their outcome value. Our observation in rats that an acute stressor can shift instrumental responding from goal-directed to habitual control is consistent with similar findings in humans.
Unusual Small Subunit That Is Not Expressed in Photosynthetic Cells Alters the Catalytic Properties of Rubisco in Rice
Authors: Morita Koichi , Hatanaka Tomoko , Misoo Shuji , Fukayama Hiroshi
Published: November 2013

Rubisco small subunits (RbcSs) are encoded by a nuclear multigene family in plants. Five RbcS genes, OsRbcS1, OsRbcS2, OsRbcS3, OsRbcS4, and OsRbcS5, have been identified in rice (Oryza sativa). Among them, the amino acid sequence of OsRbcS1 differs notably from those of other rice RbcSs. Phylogenetic analysis showed that OsRbcS1 is genetically distant from other rice RbcS genes and more closely related to RbcS from a fern and two woody plants. Reverse transcription-PCR and promoter β-glucuronidase analyses revealed that OsRbcS1 was not expressed in leaf blade, a major photosynthetic organ in rice, but was expressed in leaf sheath, culm, anther, and root central cylinder. In leaf blade of transgenic rice overexpressing OsRbcS1 and leaf sheath of nontransgenic rice, OsRbcS1 was incorporated into the Rubisco holoenzyme. Incorporation of OsRbcS1 into Rubisco increased the catalytic turnover rate and K  m for CO2 of the enzyme and slightly decreased the specificity for CO2, indicating that the catalytic properties were shifted to those of a high-activity type Rubisco. The CO2 assimilation rate at low CO2 partial pressure was decreased in overexpression lines but was not changed under ambient and high CO2 partial pressure compared with nontransgenic rice. Although the Rubisco content was increased, Rubisco activation state was decreased in overexpression lines. These results indicate that the catalytic properties of Rubisco can be altered by ectopic expression of OsRbcS1, with substantial effects on photosynthetic performance in rice. We believe this is the first demonstration of organ-specific expression of individual members of the RbcS gene family resulting in marked effects on Rubisco catalytic activity.
Ductal carcinomain situinChinese women undergoing opportunistic breast cancer screening
Authors: Ma Kwok‐Kuen , Lau Silvia Suk‐Sze , Cheung Polly Suk‐Yee
Published: November 2013

Aim

Before the introduction of breast cancer screening in 1990, ductal carcinomain situ(DCIS) was a rare disease, representing less than 2 per cent of all breast cancers inChinese. With the availability of screening mammography,DCIS, which is believed to be the precursor of invasive breast cancers, is diagnosed with increasing frequency. In the present study, we evaluated the impact of breast cancer screening by comparing the clinicopathological differences between screen‐detected and symptomaticDCISin the largest cohort ofChinese women.

Patients and Methods

BetweenMarch 2003 andMarch 2008, 206Chinese women withDCISwere treated in theHongKong Sanatorium and Hospital Breast Care Centre. They were divided into two groups according to the mode of discovery: 87 (42 per cent) women were allocated to the screen‐detectedDCISgroup, and 119 (58 per cent) women were allocated to the symptomaticDCISgroup. Clinical records and pathological reports were recorded prospectively in our multidisciplinary breast conference and reviewed retrospectively. Differences in demographic information, clinical data and breast cancer prognostic markers between the two groups were evaluated.

Results

Only 8.2 per cent of women with screen‐detectedDCISwere under the age of 40, but it was not uncommon in women with symptomaticDCIS(23.7 per cent,P = 0.002). Women with screen‐detectedDCISalso had a stronger family history of breast cancer (21.8 per cent), while only 8.4 per cent of women with symptomaticDCIShad a family history (P = 0.006). The tumour size of the screen‐detectedDCISwas smaller (mean and median: 21.9 mm and 15 mm, respectively) than the symptomaticDCIS(28.8 mm and 26 mm, respectively;P = 0.004). The tumour grade showed no difference (P = 0.639) between the two groups. Women with screen‐detectedDCISwere more likely to undergo breast‐conserving surgery (odds ratio = 2.185, 95 per cent confidence interval: 1.225–3.900,P = 0.008). There was no difference demonstrated in terms of oestrogen receptor (ER) (P = 0.929) expression, progesterone receptor (PR) (P = 0.578) expression,C‐erbB‐2 score (P = 0.089),Ki‐67 index (P = 0.312) and triple negative for the ER/PR/C‐erbB‐2 score (P = 0.201).

Conclusion

Breast cancer screening allows for the early detection of high‐gradeDCIS, which are considered more prone to develop into invasive cancer. Further studies are needed to review if mass screening will be translated into cost‐effectiveness and reduced mortality of breast cancer inHongKong.
Splenectomy in the management of Evans syndrome in adults: Long‐term follow up of 32 patients
Authors: Li Yongbin , Pankaj Prasoon , Wang Xin , Wang Yichao , Peng Bing
Published: November 2013

Aim

Literature relating to the long‐term outcome after splenectomy for Evans syndrome (ES) is limited, therefore, in the present study, we sought to examine the clinical experience of splenectomy for ES, paying particular attention to the long‐term outcome related to the disease process requiring splenectomy.

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed a series of splenectomies for ES from January 1992 to January 2012. Patients' demographics, indications for splenectomy, perioperative morbidity and mortality were investigated. Haematological outcomes were followed in both the short term (postoperative 30 days) and long term (last contact or death). Response to splenectomy was ranked as: complete response [CR, platelet (PLT) ≥ 100 × 109/L, haemoglobin (Hb) ≥ 120 g/L, without haemolysis and transfusion], partial response (PR, PLT = 50–99 × 109/L, Hb: 100–119 g/L or an increase of at least 20 g/L from baseline), no response (NR, any others), relapse (PLT < 50 × 109/L or Hb drop > 20 g/L from CR or PR).

Results

A total of 32 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria of splenectomy for ES. Indications for splenectomy included: refractory to 19 (59 per cent) treatments, dependent on nine (28 per cent) treatments and patient intolerance of four (13 per cent) treatments. None of patients experienced perioperative mortality. Perioperative morbidity was 19 per cent, and the short‐term response was 72 per cent. After a mean follow up of 6.9 ± 4.9 (0.1–20) years, 21 (66 per cent) patients achieved long‐term response, including 13 (41 per cent) CR and eight (25 per cent) PR. The remaining 11 (34 per cent) patients had NR; six of those 11 patients suffered relapse.

Conclusions

Splenectomy should be considered a safe and efficacious approach for ES.
Retroperitoneal laparoscopic ureteroureterostomy for retrocaval ureter: A report of 15 cases
Authors: Zhang Jiexiu , Liu Bianjiang , Song Ninghong , Hua Lixin , Wang Zengjun , Yin Changjun , Zhang Wei
Published: November 2013

Aim

The aim of the current study was to present our techniques and experience with retroperitoneal laparoscopic ureteroureterostomy (LUUS) in 15 patients with retrocaval ureter.

Patients and Methods

A total of 15 patients with retrocaval ureter underwent retroperitoneal LUUS. A four‐port, finger and balloon‐dissecting, retroperitoneal approach was used. Follow‐up studies were performed with renal ultrasonography and intravenous pyelography.

Results

All operations were completed laparoscopically without conversion to open surgery. The mean operative time was 120 (90∼170) min. The mean blood loss was 30 (15∼50) mL. All of the patients had an uneventful recovery. No intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred. At follow up, 3 and 6 months after discharge, remarkable improvement in the ureteral obstruction was observed.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that retroperitoneal LUUS is a safe, effective and minimally‐invasive treatment for retrocaval ureter. Laparoscopic surgery could be the preferred treatment for retrocaval ureter.
Thoracoacromial artery perforator flap based on the clavicular branch: A new option in regional reconstruction
Authors: Yildiz Kemalettin , Baygol Emre Gonenc , Ergun Selma Sonmez , Karaaltin Mehmet Veli , Yesiloglu Nebil , Guneren Ethem
Published: November 2013

Aim

Thoarcoacromial artery‐based perforator flaps are rarely used in clinical practice, especially for the reconstruction of head, neck and axillary regions. In the present study, we present a case with an anterior chest wall soft tissue defect that was reconstructed using a thoarcoacromial artery‐based perforator flap based on the clavicular branch.

Patients and Methods

A 65‐year‐old male patient presented with an anterior chest wall defect secondary to tumour resection, which was reconstructed using a thoarcoacromial artery‐based perforator flap.

Results

The patient healed successfully without any early or late complications. To date, he is still followed up by plastic surgery and oncology departments.

Conclusion

Although there may be variable consistencies, the thoracoacromial artery perforator flap could be a good alternative to pectoralis major flap for upper chest wall, axilla and neck reconstructions.
Urinary albumin : creatinine ratio predicts prediabetes progression to diabetes and reversal to normoglycemia: Role of associated insulin resistance, inflammatory cytokines and low vitamin D (尿白蛋白:肌酐比值预测糖尿病前期进展为糖尿病以及逆转到正常血糖的能力：相关的胰岛素抵抗、炎性细胞因子以及低维生素D水平的作用)
Authors: Dutta Deep , Choudhuri Subhadip , Mondal Samim Ali , Mukherjee Satinath , Chowdhury Subhankar
Published: November 2013

Background

The relationship between albumin : creatinine ratio (ACR), insulin resistance (IR), cytokines, dyslipidemia, and 25‐hydroxy vitamin D (25‐OHD) in individuals with prediabetes (IPD) was investigated to evaluate their role in predicting future risk of progression to diabetes.

Methods

The aforementioned parameters were evaluated in 147 IPD with persistent impaired fasting glucose and/or impaired glucose tolerance over two oral glucose tolerance tests, who were then followed up at 3‐monthly intervals for progression to diabetes or reversal to normoglycemia.

Results

Data were analyzed for 137 IPD with at least 1‐year follow‐up. Forty‐three IPD reversed to normoglycemia (Group I), 69 continued with prediabetes (Group II), and 25 progressed to diabetes (Group III) over a mean follow‐up period of 28.36 ± 8.19 months. Baseline fasting blood glucose levels (BGLs), 2‐h post‐glucose BGLs, and ACR were lowest in Group I and highest in Group III. Of the 137 IPD, 54.75% (n = 75) had microalbuminuria. The IPD in the lowest ACR quartile had the highest reversal to normoglycemia. Cox regression revealed that baseline IL‐6 was predictive of progression to diabetes (P = 0.03) and ACR was an independent predictor of reversal to normoglycemia (P = 0.007). Kaplan–Meier analysis showed higher reversal to normoglycemia in IPD without microalbuminuria (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

An increased ACR is associated with higher creatinine, IR, and cytokine levels and lower 25‐OHD levels in IPD. Microalbuminuria is associated with decreased reversal to normoglycemia and increased progression to diabetes. Low 25‐OHD may be associated with increased progression to diabetes, perhaps via modulation of the ACR.
Hobbes, Locke and the Consequences: Shaftesbury's Moral Sense and Political Agitation in Early Eighteenth‐Century England
Authors: MÜLLER PATRICK
Published: November 2013

This article examines the political (and Whig) agenda behind the earl of Shaftesbury's moral and religious thought, offering a reading of the so‐called ‘moral sense’ that, based on Terry Eagleton's Marxist interpretation of moral‐sense philosophy in general and Shaftesbury's use of the concept in particular, illuminates how far the moral sense serves a propagandistic purpose in Shaftesbury's writings. A close examination of this aspect, which has so far not been considered in the relevant literature on Shaftesbury, illuminates the anti‐Hobbist and, by implication, anti‐Tory (and High Church) tendency of his moral philosophy in the context of Low Church Anglicanism.
A random, case‐control study on the efficacy and safety of Weishi Bitong Xifang fumigation for mild and moderate knee osteoarthritis patients
Authors: Zhang Hao , Liu Tao , Li Feiyue
Published: November 2013

Objective

To explore the efficacy and safety of Weishi Bitong Xifang fumigation for treating patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

Methods

A total of 100 KOA patients were randomly assigned to receive Weishi Bitong Xifang fumigation and washing (fumigation group, n = 50) or unctions of votalin emulgel (Voltaren emulgel group, n = 50) by means of a computer‐generated random‐number table. All the patients received two courses of therapy (2 weeks per course). Visual analogue scale (VAS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) were used to assess the curative effect.

Results

Visual analogue scale and WOMAC scores were significantly improved in both groups after treatment. However, VAS, stiffness and functional scores in the fumigation group were significantly lower than those in the Voltaren emulgel group after 4 weeks of treatment. In addition, the occurrence rate of adverse effects in the fumigation group was also lower than that of the Voltaren emulgel group.

Conclusion

Weishi Bitong Xifang fumigation is an effective and safe method for treating KOA patients and should be widely applied in clinics.
Alcohol Consumption Decreases Rat Hepatic Creatine Biosynthesis Via Altered Guanidinoacetate Methyltransferase Activity
Authors: Kharbanda Kusum K. , Todero Sandra L. , Moats Jordan C. , Harris Ryan M. , Osna Natalia A. , Thomes Paul G. , Tuma Dean J.
Published: November 2013

Background

We have previously shown that decreased S‐adenosylmethionine (SAM):S‐adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) ratio generated in livers of alcohol‐fed rats can impair the activities of many SAM‐dependent methyltransferases. One such methyltransferase is guanidinoacetate methyltransferase (GAMT) that catalyzes the last step of creatine synthesis. As GAMT is the major utilizer of SAM, the purpose of the study was to examine the effects of ethanol (EtOH) on liver creatine levels and GAMT activity.

Methods

Male Wistar rats were pair‐fed the Lieber–DeCarli control and EtOH diet for 4 to 5 weeks. At the end of the feeding regimen, the liver, kidney, and blood were removed from these rats for subsequent biochemical analyses.

Results

We observed ~60% decrease in creatine levels in the livers from EtOH‐fed rats as compared to controls. The reduction in creatine levels correlated with lower SAM:SAH ratio observed in the livers of the EtOH‐fed rats. Further, in vitro experiments with cell‐free system and hepatic cells revealed it is indeed elevated SAH and lower SAM:SAH ratio that directly impairs GAMT activity and significantly reduces creatine synthesis. EtOH intake also slightly decreases the hepatocellular uptake of the creatine precursor, guanidinoacetate (GAA), and the GAMT enzyme expression that could additionally contribute to reduced liver creatine synthesis. The consequences of impaired hepatic creatine synthesis by chronic EtOH consumption include (i) increased toxicity due to GAA accumulation in the liver; (ii) reduced protection due to lower creatine levels in the liver, and (iii) reduced circulating and cardiac creatine levels.

Conclusions

Chronic EtOH consumption affects the hepatic creatine biosynthetic pathway leading to detrimental consequences not only in the liver but could also affect distal organs such as the heart that depend on a steady supply of creatine from the liver.
Gray Matter Volume in Left Rostral Middle Frontal and Left Cerebellar Cortices Predicts Frontal Executive Performance in Alcoholic Subjects
Authors: Nakamura‐Palacios Ester M. , Souza Rodrigo S. M. , Zago‐Gomes Maria P. , de Melo Adriana M. F. , Braga Flávia S. , Kubo Tadeu T. A. , Gasparetto Emerson L.
Published: November 2013

Background

Alcoholic subjects manifest important deficits in frontal executive function, yet maintain cognitive mental status within normal range.

Methods

This study searched for volumetric measurements of segmented brain structures obtained from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that would predict executive functions and cognitive mental status in alcoholic subjects. The frontal assessment battery (FAB) and the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) were applied to alcoholic subjects who underwent MRI. Cortical and subcortical segmentation and corrections were performed using FreeSurfer. Multiple linear regressions analyses having volumetric measures of segmented brain structures as predictors for FAB or MMSE scores as dependent measures were conducted. Sixty alcoholic subjects, 52 males, mean age of 47.2 ± SD 10.4 years, with heavy use of alcohol (mean 284.4 ± SD 275.9 g of alcohol/d) over a long time (mean 32.4 ± SD 11.1 years), showed FAB 11.1 ± SD 3.2 and MMSE of 25.2 ± SD 4.1.

Results

Multiple regression analyses having left and right side of each segment as predictors showed that gray matter volumes of rostral middle frontal cortex and cerebellar cortex (p < 0.001), in which only the left side of these structures showed significant partial effects in the full model (p < 0.05), showed to predict FAB performance. They were even more predictive when considered together (p < 0.001), in which both left rostral middle frontal cortex (p < 0.05) and left cerebellar cortex (p < 0.01) predictors had significant partial effects in the full model. None of brain structures was predictive of MMSE performance.

Conclusions

We have concluded that volumetric measurements of left rostral middle frontal and cerebellar cortices seem to be able to predict the frontal executive performance but not the cognitive mental status in alcoholic subjects.
In Vitro Assessment of the Apico Aortic Blood Pump: Anatomical Positioning, Hydrodynamic Performance, Hemolysis Studies, and Analysis in a Hybrid Cardiovascular Simulator
Authors: da Silva Bruno Utiyama , Jatene Adib Domingos , Leme Juliana , Fonseca Jeison W.G. , Silva Cibele , Uebelhart Beatriz , Suzuki Carlos Kenichi , Andrade Aron J.P.
Published: November 2013

The Apico Aortic Blood Pump (AABP) is a centrifugal continuous flow left ventricular assist device (LVAD) with ceramic bearings. The device is in the initial development phase and is being designed to be attached directly to the left ventricular apex by introducing an inlet cannula. This paper reports results from in vitro experiments. In order to evaluate implantation procedures and device dimensioning, in vitro experiments included an anatomic positioning study for the analysis of surgical implantation procedure and device dimensions and positioning that was performed using the body of a pig. The results revealed no damage caused by the device, and the surgical implantation procedure was considered feasible. Hydrodynamic performance curves were obtained to verify the applicability of the device as an LVAD, showing adequate performance. Mechanical blood trauma was analyzed through 6‐h hemolysis tests, with total pressure head of 100 mm Hg and flow of 5 L/min. Mean normalized index of hemolysis was 0.009 g/100 L (±0.002 g/100 L).

Studies using a hybrid cardiovascular simulator were conducted for three types of circulatory conditions: normal healthy conditions, concentric hypertrophic heart failure (CHHF), and CHHF with AABP assistance. Analysis of cardiovascular parameters under those three conditions demonstrated that when the AABP was assisting the system, parameters under CHHF conditions went back to normal healthy values, indicating the AABP's effectiveness as CHHF therapy. Our preliminary results indicate that it is feasible to use the AABP as a LVAD. The next steps include long‐term in vivo experiments.
Credit Contagion and Trade Credit: Evidence from Small Business Data in Japan
Authors: Tsuruta Daisuke
Published: November 2013

The present study investigates whether credit contagion leads to a decrease in trade credit for small businesses. In 1997–1998, the Japanese economy experienced a deep recession, and the domino effect caused an increase in the number of dishonored bills and bankruptcy filings. During a period of credit contagion, the possibility of default increases for firms with more financial claims and lower cash holdings. We find that during a recession, trade payables for small businesses with higher trade receivables and lower cash holdings are reduced. The hypothesis that the effects of credit risk on trade payables are weakened is not supported.
Impact of the reduction of calcineurin inhibitors on renal function in heart transplant patients: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cornu Catherine , Dufays Christophe , Gaillard Ségolène , Gueyffier François , Redonnet Michel , Sebbag Laurent , Roussoulières Ana , Gleissner Christian A. , Groetzner Jan , Lehmkuhl Hans B. , Potena Luciano , Gullestad Lars , Cantarovich Marcelo , Boissonnat Pascale
Published: November 2013

Aims

Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) taken after heart transplantation lead to excellent short‐term outcomes, but long‐term use may cause chronic nephrotoxicity. Our aim was to identify, appraise, select and analyse all high‐quality research evidence relevant to the question of the clinical impact of CNI‐sparing strategies in heart transplant patients.

Methods

We carried out a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials on CNI reduction in heart transplant recipients. Primary outcomes were kidney function and acute rejection after 1 year. Secondary outcomes included graft loss, all‐cause mortality and adverse events.

Results

Eight open‐label studies were included, with 723 patients (four tested de novo CNI reduction and four maintenance CNI reduction). Calcineurin inhibitor reduction did not improve creatinine clearance at 12 months 5.46 [−1.17, 12.03] P = 0.32 I2 = 65.4%. Acute rejection at 12 months (55/360 vs. 52/332), mortality (18/301 vs. 15/270) and adverse event rates (55/294 vs. 52/281) did not differ between the low‐CNI and standard‐CNI groups. There was significant benefit on creatinine clearance in patients with impaired renal function at 6 months [+12.23 (+5.26, +18.82) ml min−1, P = 0.0003] and at 12 months 4.63 [−4.55, 13.82] P = 0.32 I2 = 75%.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis did not demonstrate a favourable effect of CNI reduction on kidney function, but there was no increase in acute rejection. To provide a better analysis of the influence of CNI reduction patterns and associated treatments, a meta‐analysis of individual patient data should be performed.
Natural Products Evaluated in Neuropathic Pain Models ‐ A Systematic Review
Authors: Quintans Jullyana S.S. , Antoniolli Ângelo R. , Almeida Jackson R.G.S. , Santana‐Filho Valter J. , Quintans‐Júnior Lucindo J.
Published: November 2013

Chronic pain conditions, such as neuropathic pain, are a common problem that poses a major challenge to health‐care providers due to its complex natural history, unclear aetiology and poor response towards therapy. Despite the large number of drugs available, the adherence is limited by the large range of side effects and pharmacological ineffectiveness. Thus, the search for new chemical entities that can act as promising molecules to treat chronic pain conditions has emerged. The natural products remain as the most promising sources of new chemical entities with applicability for the medical approach. Hence, we performed a systematic review analysing pre‐clinical studies shown to be promising in a possible applicability in neuropathic pain. The search terms neuropathic pain, phytotherapy and medicinal plants were used to retrieve English language articles in LILACS, PUBMED and EMBASE published until 10 April 2013. From a total of 1529 articles surveyed, 28 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria established. The main chemical compounds studied were flavonoids (28%), terpenes (17%), alkaloids (14%), phenols (10%), carotenoids (10%) and others (21%). The mostly described animal models for the study of neuropathic pain included were chronic constriction injury (CCI – 32%), partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSNL – 28%), streptozotocin – induced diabetic (28%), alcoholic neuropathy (3.5%), sodium monoiodoacetate (MIA – 3.5%) and neuropathic pain induced by paclitaxel (3.5%). The opioids, serotonergic and cannabinoid systems are suggested as the most promising targets for the natural products described. Therefore, the data reviewed here suggest that these compounds are possible candidates for the treatment of chronic painful conditions, such as neuropathic pain.
Ecklonia cava promotes hair growth
Authors: Bak S. S. , Ahn B. N. , Kim J. A. , Shin S. H. , Kim J. C. , Kim M. K. , Sung Y. K. , Kim S. K.
Published: November 2013

Background

Previous studies have reported the protective effects on skin elasticity of the edible marine seaweed Ecklonia cava, which acts through regulation of both antioxidative and anti-inflammatory responses.

Aim

We evaluated the effect of E. cava and one of its components, dioxinodehydroeckol, on hair-shaft growth in cultured human hair follicles and on hair growth in mice.

Methods

The MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay was used to check cell viability of human dermal papilla cells (DPCs) and outer root sheath (ORS) cells after treatment with E. cava and its metabolite, dioxinodehydroeckol. Hair-shaft growth was measured using the in vitro hair-follicle organ-culture system, in the presence or absence of E. cava and dioxinodehydroeckol. Anagen induction activity was examined by topical application of E. cava to the dorsal skin of C57BL/6 mice. Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 expression was measured by reverse transcriptase PCR and ELISA.

Results

The proliferation activity was found to be highest for the ethyl acetate-soluble fraction of E. cava (EAFE) in DPCs and in ORS cells. Treatment with EAFE resulted in elongation of the hair shaft in cultured human hair follicles, and promoted transition of the hair cycle from the telogen to the anagen phase in the dorsal skin of C57BL/6 mice. In addition, EAFE induced an increase in IGF-1 expression in DPCs. Dioxinodehydroeckol, a component of E. cava, induced elongation of the hair shaft, an increase in proliferation of DPCs and ORS cells, and an increase in expression of IGF-1 in DPCs.

Conclusions

These results suggest that E. cava containing dioxinodehydroeckol promotes hair growth through stimulation of DPCs and ORS cells.
Homoarginine and mortality in an older population: the Hoorn study
Authors: Pilz Stefan , Teerlink Tom , Scheffer Peter G. , Meinitzer Andreas , Rutters Femke , Tomaschitz Andreas , Drechsler Christiane , Kienreich Katharina , Nijpels Giel , Stehouwer Coen D. A. , März Winfried , Dekker Jacqueline M.
Published: November 2013

Background

Homoarginine is an amino acid that may be involved in nitric oxide and energy metabolism. Previous studies in patient populations showed that low homoarginine levels indicate an increased risk of mortality and cardiovascular disease. We evaluated whether low plasma levels of homoarginine are associated with elevated, overall and cause‐specific mortality.

Materials and methods

The Hoorn study is a population‐based study among older men and women. We calculated Cox proportional hazard ratios (HRs) for overall and cause‐specific mortality according to sex‐specific homoarginine quartiles.

Results

We included 606 study participants (51·3% women; 70·0 ± 6·6 years). Homoarginine concentrations were higher in men (1·63 ± 0·51 μM), compared with women (1·30 ± 0·44 μM; P < 0·001). After a median follow‐up time of 7·8 years, 112 study participants died, including 31 deaths due to cardiovascular diseases and 30 due to cancer. Associations between homoarginine levels and mortality showed a threshold effect with a significant risk increase from the second to the first quartile. Compared with the upper three quartiles, the age‐, sex‐ and BMI‐adjusted HR (with 95% CI) in the first quartile was 2·26 (1·52–3·32) for overall mortality, 4·20 (2·03–8·69) for cardiovascular mortality and 1·25 (0·55–2·85) for cancer mortality. These associations remained materially unchanged after multivariate adjustments.

Conclusions

Low plasma concentrations of homoarginine are a risk marker for overall mortality and especially for cardiovascular mortality in the older general population. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms.
Temporal and geographic variation in parasitoid attack with no evidence for ant protection of the Melissa blue butterfly, Lycaeides melissa
Authors: SCHOLL CYNTHIA F. , BURLS KEVIN J. , NEWTON JOY L. , YOUNG BONNIE , FORISTER MATTHEW L.
Published: November 2013

Interactions among caterpillars, ants and parasitoids have informed much of what is known about tritrophic ecological dynamics. However, detailed studies encompassing all three trophic levels are limited to relatively few natural systems. In this study, interactions of the Melissa blue butterfly, Lycaeides melissa, with mutualistic ants and parasitoids in the context of novel host plant use by the butterfly were investigated.

Over the course of 2 years, 526 caterpillars and 288 ants tending caterpillars were collected from 185 plants at sites with two different native host plants and the exotic host alfalfa, for the purpose of investigating if the presence of ants was associated with reduced rates of parasitism.

The abundance and diversity of parasitoids varied considerably across space and time. The presence of tending ants did not appear to reduce rates of parasitism, in contrast to a previous study of L. melissa, which found evidence of ant protection against spiders and other predators.

This study has increased our understanding of ant–caterpillar–enemy interactions, and previously unobserved interactions have been documented, including at least two new host–parasitoid relationships. These findings highlight the importance of investigating ecological interactions, including interactions with other trophic levels, when studying diet breadth and ecological diversification in herbivorous insects.
What needs to follow early intervention? Predictors of relapse and functional recovery following first‐episode psychosis
Authors: Kam Shi Mei , Singh Swaran P. , Upthegrove Rachel
Published: November 2013

Aim

As a foundation for considering how gains may be maintained following early intervention in first‐episode psychosis (FEP), this study aimed to describe and investigate factors predicting post‐discharge relapse and longer term functioning.

Method

An evaluation via case‐note review obtained quantitative data on 163 patients sequentially discharged from Birmingham Early Intervention Service (EIS) followed up for a median of 3.6 years. Time to relapse was calculated and hierarchical regression was used to determine predictors of relapse and functioning.

Results

Patients likely to relapse do so within the first year post‐discharge; however, over 40% did not relapse during the follow‐up period. The number of relapses occurring during EIS care predicted time‐to‐relapse post‐discharge. At discharge from the EIS and study end‐point, the proportion with low social and vocational functioning remained high. Predictors of positive ‘Not in Education Employment or Training’ status at end‐point include being in a minority ethnic group, substance misuse and number of relapses.

Conclusions

Increased emphasis on relapse prevention and early post‐discharge monitoring may be needed, especially in the first year, for those who have experienced previous relapse. To maintain early outcomes in FEP, targeted interventions to address substance misuse and functional recovery need to be sustained in the long term. EISs should aim to make the first episode of psychosis the last. Services providing care for patients with psychosis post EIS should be designed to deliver care for ongoing need, with continued emphasis on relapse prevention and social recovery.
Global University Rankings, Transnational Policy Discourse and Higher Education in Europe
Authors: Erkkilä Tero
Published: November 2013

Global university rankings have portrayed European higher education institutions in varying lights, leading to intense reflection on the figures on the EU and national levels alike. The rankings have helped to construct a policy problem of ‘European higher education’, framing higher education as an element of competitiveness in a global economy. This has also allowed the European Commission to become a key policy actor in higher education that was not traditionally within its mandate. The global university rankings can be seen as a transnational policy discourse that has different variants at a national level, owing to the historical narratives and public values of each state. But the policy prescriptions of the rankings are taking surprisingly similar forms in different countries and have informed reform agendas throughout Europe. At a general level, the rankings are contributing to a convergence in higher education policies in Europe. This also has negative effects and unintended consequences as the rankings are driving for stratification, homogenisation and commodification of European higher education. But the actual effects of the rankings are mostly indirect and contextual. Hence, the European countries are unequally affected by the rankings, owing to their institutional traditions, size and position in a centre‐periphery axis.
Regulation of intracellular pH in cnidarians: response to acidosis in Anemonia viridis
Authors: Laurent Julien , Venn Alexander , Tambutté Éric , Ganot Philippe , Allemand Denis , Tambutté Sylvie
Published: November 2013

The regulation of intracellular pH (pHi) is a fundamental aspect of cell physiology that has received little attention in studies of the phylum Cnidaria, which includes ecologically important sea anemones and reef‐building corals. Like all organisms, cnidarians must maintain pH homeostasis to counterbalance reductions in pHi, which can arise because of changes in either intrinsic or extrinsic parameters. Corals and sea anemones face natural daily changes in internal fluids, where the extracellular pH can range from 8.9 during the day to 7.4 at night. Furthermore, cnidarians are likely to experience future CO2‐driven declines in seawater pH, a process known as ocean acidification. Here, we carried out the first mechanistic investigation to determine how cnidarian pHi regulation responds to decreases in extracellular and intracellular pH. Using the anemone Anemonia viridis, we employed confocal live cell imaging and a pH‐sensitive dye to track the dynamics of pHi after intracellular acidosis induced by acute exposure to decreases in seawater pH and NH4Cl prepulses. The investigation was conducted on cells that contained intracellular symbiotic algae (Symbiodinium sp.) and on symbiont‐free endoderm cells. Experiments using inhibitors and Na+‐free seawater indicate a potential role of Na+/H+ plasma membrane exchangers (NHEs) in mediating pHi recovery following intracellular acidosis in both cell types. We also measured the buffering capacity of cells, and obtained values between 20.8 and 43.8 mm per pH unit, which are comparable to those in other invertebrates. Our findings provide the first steps towards a better understanding of acid–base regulation in these basal metazoans, for which information on cell physiology is extremely limited.
SNAP‐23 and VAMP‐3 contribute to the release of IL‐6 and TNFα from a human synovial sarcoma cell line
Authors: Boddul Sanjay V. , Meng Jianghui , Dolly James Oliver , Wang Jiafu
Published: November 2013

Fibroblast‐like synoviocytes are important mediators of inflammatory joint damage in arthritis through the release of cytokines, but it is unknown whether their exocytosis from these particular cells is SNARE‐dependent. Here, the complement of soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) in human synovial sarcoma cells (SW982) was examined with respect to the secretion of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα), before and after knockdown of a synaptosome‐associated protein of molecular mass 23 kDa (SNAP‐23) or the vesicle‐associated membrane protein 3 (VAMP‐3). Wild‐type SW982 cells expressed SNAP‐23, VAMP‐3, syntaxin isoforms 2–4 and synaptic vesicle protein 2C (SV2C). These cells showed Ca2+‐dependent secretion of IL‐6 and TNFα when stimulated by interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) or in combination with K+ depolarization. Specific knockdown of SNAP‐23 or VAMP‐3 decreased the exocytosis of IL‐6 and TNFα; the reduced expression of SNAP‐23 caused accumulation of SV2 in the peri‐nuclear area. A monoclonal antibody specific for VAMP‐3 precipitated SNAP‐23 and syntaxin‐2 (and syntaxin‐3 to a lesser extent). The formation of SDS‐resistant complexes by SNAP‐23 and VAMP‐3 was reduced upon knockdown of SNAP‐23. Although the syntaxin isoforms 2, 3 and 4 are expressed in SW982 cells, knockdown of each did not affect the release of cytokines. Collectively, these results show that SNAP‐23 and VAMP‐3 participate in IL‐1β‐induced Ca2+‐dependent release of IL‐6 and TNFα from SW982 cells.

Structured digital abstract

VAMP-3 physically interacts with syntaxin 2 and SNAP-23 by anti-bait coimmunoprecipitation (View interaction)
State‐of‐the‐art review on extended stress intensity factor concepts
Authors: Radaj D.
Published: November 2013

The stress intensity factor concept for describing the stress field at pointed crack or slit tips is well known from fracture mechanics. It has been substantially extended since Williams' basic contribution (1952) on stress fields at angular corners. One extension refers to pointed V‐notches with stress intensities depending on the notch opening angle. The loading‐mode‐related simple notch stress intensity factors K1, K2 and K3 are introduced. Another extension refers to rounded notches with crack shape or V‐notch shape in two variants: parabolic, elliptic or hyperbolic notches (‘blunt notches’) on the one hand and root hole notches (‘keyholes’ when considering crack shapes) on the other hand. Here, the loading‐mode‐related generalised notch stress intensity factors K1ρ, K2ρ and K3ρ are defined. The concepts of elastic stress intensity factor, notch stress intensity factor and generalised notch stress intensity factor are extended into the range of elastic–plastic (work‐hardening) or perfectly plastic notch tip or notch root behaviour. Here, the plastic notch stress intensity factors K1p, K2p and K3p are of relevance. The elastic notch stress intensity factors are used to describe the fatigue strength of fillet‐welded attachment joints. The fracture toughness of brittle materials may also be evaluated on this basis. The plastic notch stress intensity factors characterise the stress and strain field at pointed V‐notch tips. A new version of the Neuber rule accounting for the influence of the notch opening angle is presented.
A high‐resolution approach to estimating ecosystem respiration at continental scales using operational satellite data
Authors: Jägermeyr Jonas , Gerten Dieter , Lucht Wolfgang , Hostert Patrick , Migliavacca Mirco , Nemani Ramakrishna
Published: November 2013

A better understanding of the local variability in land‐atmosphere carbon fluxes is crucial to improving the accuracy of global carbon budgets. Operational satellite data backed by ground measurements at Fluxnet sites proved valuable in monitoring local variability of gross primary production at highly resolved spatio‐temporal resolutions. Yet, we lack similar operational estimates of ecosystem respiration (Re) to calculate net carbon fluxes. If successful, carbon fluxes from such a remote sensing approach would form an independent and sought after measure to complement widely used dynamic global vegetation models (DGVMs).

Here, we establish an operational semi‐empirical Re model, based only on data from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) with a resolution of 1 km and 8 days. Fluxnet measurements between 2000 and 2009 from 100 sites across North America and Europe are used for parameterization and validation.

Our analysis shows that Re is closely tied to temperature and plant productivity. By separating temporal and intersite variation, we find that MODIS land surface temperature (LST) and enhanced vegetation index (EVI) are sufficient to explain observed Re across most major biomes with a negligible bias [R² = 0.62, RMSE = 1.32 (g C m−2 d−1), MBE = 0.05 (g C m−2 d−1)].

A comparison of such satellite‐derived Re with those simulated by the DGVM LPJmL reveals similar spatial patterns. However, LPJmL shows higher temperature sensitivities and consistently simulates higher Re values, in high‐latitude and subtropical regions. These differences remain difficult to explain and they are likely associated either with LPJmL parameterization or with systematic errors in the Fluxnet sampling technique. While uncertainties remain with Re estimates, the model formulated in this study provides an operational, cross‐validated and unbiased approach to scale Fluxnet Re to the continental scale and advances knowledge of spatio‐temporal Re variability.
Outcome measures monitoring physical function in children with haemophilia: a systematic review
Authors: Stephensen D. , Drechsler W. I. , Scott O. M.
Published: November 2013

Our objective was to provide a synthesis of measurement properties for performance‐based outcome measures used to evaluate physical function in children with haemophilia. A systematic review of articles published in English using Medline, PEDro, Cinahl and The Cochrane Library electronic databases was conducted. Studies were included if a performance‐based method, clinical evaluation or measurement tool was used to record an aspect of physical function in patients with haemophilia aged ≤ 18 years. Recording of self‐perceived or patient‐reported physical performance, abstracts, unpublished reports, case series reports and studies where the outcome measure was not documented or cross‐referenced was excluded. Description of outcome measures, patient characteristics, measurement properties for construct validity, internal consistency, repeatability, responsiveness and feasibility was extracted. Data synthesis of 41 studies evaluating 14 measures is reported. None of the outcome measures demonstrated the requirements for all the measurement properties. Data on validity and test–retest repeatability were most lacking together with studies of sufficient size. Measurement of walking and muscle strength demonstrated good repeatability and discriminative properties; however, correlation with other measures of musculoskeletal impairment requires investigation. The Haemophilia Joint Health Score demonstrated acceptable construct validity, internal consistency and repeatability, but the ability to discriminate changes in physical function is still to be determined. Rigorous evaluation of the measurement properties of performance‐based outcome measures used to monitor physical function of children with haemophilia in larger collaborative studies is required.